Well Shit, I didn't expect to get this done so soon. I would say thank you for the patience, but I am not sure you would all agree that you have been waiting as long as usual.

Anyways, welcome back to another chapter of Finding Balance. It has been only a week, so the updates are going to be minimal. I would like to thank the overwhelming amount of responses and comments that were given about last chapter. Most of them were positive and that makes me happier seeing as I was hesitant with the route I was taking. Seeing the responses, however, made me confident in the route I was taking. I am sure some of you will be extremely thrilled with what I have planned.

Also, thank you for bringing this story over 200,000 views. It is an amazing milestone for sure. I will continue to work and make sure that this story is deserving of all that.

I don't have much else to share with you here, so let's just dive right in!


Chapter 47: Pain to Peace

The feeling still hadn't sunk in. I laid on this bed looking up at the foreign ceiling. Just like the previous night, I hadn't slept much at all. I didn't feel exhausted from that fact, though. There was no room for that at all. Pain, confusion, and anger was all that resided in my mind.

I rolled over on the bed to look out the door. Because of the scene I caused last night at the bar and possibly against that damned tiger, they leadership here believed it best that I had extra 'company'. Four guards stood outside the door. Their lanterns were easy to see from where I rested.

I let out a groan thinking of the journey that I was going to have to take alone. Abandoned by the one person I believed would be by me always. It left a giant hole in my soul that nothing would fill. It was a black hole that sucked in any hope and happiness, and those thoughts were replaced with doubt and fear. If this happened with her, what isn't to say that it could happen with the Five or Po. Can I bring myself to trust anyone like I trusted her?

I then thought about the kiss that happened between Sha-Ren and Tigress. I would say 'shared', but that wouldn't be a fair description of what is was. The male tiger was trespassing on something he didn't quite know and understand, and yet he believed he was in the right afterwards. I could see it in his look right before I left. The tiger culture has boxed in his and everyone else's mind. It should have been obvious that a dilemma would occur at some point. Regardless of what happened, I know she wasn't to blame for what happened… Was I?

I saw the signs and seemed to not act on it. What could I have done to prevent this from occurring? I wished to believe that there was something, but I don't think there was anything I could have done. Tigress's words of 'not being able to grow anymore at the Jade Palace' kind of concluded that this was an unstoppable train, and I was far from the immoveable object. I only pushed her away further with my mistrust…

I growled to myself as I got up to my feet. I never for a second mistrusted her. There was not a second of doubt during the last couple of days that made me question what she was doing. Even at the end did I stand by those beliefs. I just didn't trust Sha-Ren.

I looked back at my pack to see a sliver of the book showing. My eyes down casted even further. My path has always ended here. I make new friends, find a new home, get with the first love of my life. None of that matters when my path constantly ends with isolation. I am destined to walk this planet alone, the Last Man on Earth. Nothing will ever diminish that fact now.

I looked out the door and got a slight hint that dawn was approaching. I maybe has an hour or so until its approach. Why should I even wait for it to come? There is nothing left for me here, so I might as well get a start on the journey back home.

I put on my shirt, pants, and shoes and looked back at the items in my sack. The book still taunted me as I stood there looking at it. I let out a sigh before stuffing in further and followed it with a few more items that managed to crawl out of the bag over time. I then swung the bag onto my back and headed for the door.

The instant I walked out of the building, the guards that watched over me spun around and readied their weapons. I recognized one of the guards as Rhuya. I asked in an unamused voice, "Escort me out of the village. I think it is time for me to go."

They all lowered their weapons with looks of confusion. Rhuya had a slightly glare on her face, but it was far less intense than before. She asked, "Your friend isn't going with you?"

My anger boiled in my, but I was able to contain it behind a blank façade. I responded with one, tight word, "No."

She questioned further, "Do you wish to say goodbye."

I knew she didn't really want to take me over there, and I myself didn't know if I wanted to go either. I looked over in the direction of Xiulan's home for a moment though. It seriously crossed my mind if I should, if I even had the strength to. With mixed emotions of shame and sadness, I shook my head, "It would be best for me to just leave right now. I shouldn't delay it."

She motioned to the all the guards, with the exception of one who she sent to the post, to escort me with her to the village exit. As if it were a symbol, the way to the cave was the opposite direction from Xiulan's, away from Tigress. A part of me considered sprinting back and begging her to come back with me. I knew, in the back of my mind, that it would be futile. That would only pain and agony for the both of us, nothing more. I knew her mind was made up and there was nothing I could say that would change her mind. So, I kept walking.


POV: Tigress

Last night was burned into my mind. My sleep was constantly interrupted with the thought of what I had just done. I was always certain with what I do. This, however, wasn't something I was entirely certain about. I feel betrayed by his spying. My dependability and honor put into question, and I feel like he was changed by this trip. My reaction to what he had done, my choice to stay and split, made me question my dependability and honor myself.

I thought back on the events of last night. The anger Kyle shared with Sha-Ren. I had never seen such raw anger from him, and it was rare for me to see that from anyone. He might have very well maimed the large tiger had I not intervened. While I was infuriated with the actions of Sha-Ren, he did not deserve to pay with blood. I am just relieved he agreed to leave Kyle alone for the rest of his stay here and speak nothing of what had happened.

Now, I looked out the window to some glimmer of silent hope that he would come up to the house and we could make amends. Something to assure me that everything was alright between us. I knew it wasn't going to happen, but some part of me held onto that feeling. Besides, I couldn't bring myself to meditate right now.

"I see that you are up early." I spun around in surprise. I never even heard her coming, and it has been a while since someone has snuck up on me.

Once I settled after a moment, I walked away from the window as I looked at my mother. I hid my sadness behind a thick, emotionless wall. I responded, "I didn't get much sleep last night. I was thinking about some things."

She walked to the kitchen as she prepared some tea for us, "I see… While you were thinking, did you think about staying here with me? I know it isn't much for a Kung Fu master, but I was hoping that-"

I responded quickly, "I did think about it." She looked at me with anticipation. I first apologized, "Sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt you. I did think about staying here. Actually, I came to the conclusion that I should stay for a bit longer."

Xiulan's smile was irrepressible, "You have no idea how happy that makes me feel. It's just, you seemed so unsure before. Not like you are much better now, but what made you choose to stay here?"

My mind instantly suppressed the negative feelings and thoughts relating to Kyle. I just thought of the other reasons, "I just think there are things I need to learn about myself and figure out. What better place to do this than to do it with my people?"

My mother still held excitement that I decided to stay. While I wasn't exactly happy with how I made the decision as a whole, I was still happy for her. She seemed to greatly care about mending our relationship. She handed me my tea as she beckoned me to take a seat. She asked as I her, "Did you let your friend know about this?"

I nodded, "I did."

She proceeded, "And what did he think about it."

I took a sip of tea as I tried to control my emotions. Finally, I nearly whispered out, "He did not like the idea."

She looked at me with a sympathetic look, "I am sorry to hear about that. You standing there and looking out the window does make a little more sense now."

I blushed in embarrassment. Now I really don't know how I didn't notice her if she was standing behind me for that long. I asked, "How does it make sense?"

She chuckled a little before getting to the point, "You are waiting for him to say goodbye or maybe something more." I grunted at the last part. I don't think that is at all likely. She continued, "I really liked him. He seems to be a strong character who is compassionate about protecting those who need it. He just doesn't belong here. If he were a tiger, then perhaps-"

I lashed out, "Perhaps what?! He could then stay, and then it is alright if we date?! Tell me how that makes sense. He isn't feral, mother. He is just like any tiger. No, he was better that. He was better than anyone I have ever met." Xiulan looked surprised at my outburst. I took a second to calm my nerves, "Sorry, I just-"

"You don't know if you made the right choice." I nodded at her conclusion as I waited for her to continue, "I don't know what you two shared, and I also don't know exactly what happened between you. You can't change the past, so you might as well look to better your future." I still didn't feel better from that. I still felt… cold. Just like I had felt for so many years before meeting him. She tried to still reassure me, "Besides, I am sure he will come around and say goodbye."

My hopes weren't exactly high for that one. However, the sounds of footsteps echoed from the other side of the door. My ears slightly perked up to who it might be, or more specifically, who I wanted it to be. Xiulan looked equally interested to see who it was at this time in the morning. Then, there was a knock at the door.

Xiulan's voice perked up, "Come in."

The door opened slowly, and all my anticipation slipped away for a darker feeling. Sha-Ren walked through the entrance with a surprisingly emotionless look on his face. A glare formed on my face as my mother greeted him, "Ohh, Sha-Ren. What are you doing here at this time?"

"Xiulan, Tigress."

I greeted him in a less pleasant way, "What do you want?"

He seemed surprised at first but realized that he shouldn't be. A deadly silence overtook the room as I stared sharply at him. He seemed to be in less than good condition from the fight last night. Xiulan decided to interrupt for a decent reason. "I am going to check to see if some of the stores are open. I will leave you two alone." She got up from her seat as she left the room. It only left Sha-Ren and I in the room.

The instant she was out of the room, Sha-Ren started, "Please, let me apologize for my impulsive behavior during the other evening. I thought we were connecting more than just… well… the friendly way."

I cut in, "We weren't."

He hesitated for a second before continuing, "I know. That is why I am apologizing. While I do still want you in that way, I will give you time and space."

He was just like many arrogant fools I had come to know over the course of my life. It drew some curiosity within me as I was shocked by how forward he was being. However, it was swiftly crushed. Hopefully he takes this hint to not even try, "Forcing that kiss on me is not exactly a 'sorry' kind of offense. Do you realize how idiotic that was to pull?!" My distain wasn't even hidden at this point. The chair I was sitting on moments ago toppled over as I jumped to my feet.

He asserted, "Then I will find some way to make it up to you."

I growled out in contempt. I asked, "Is that all you wanted to say."

His hope drained a little as he shook his head. "No, I am actually here to notify you that your friend has left." My eyes widened in shock before depression overtook me. Sha-Ren continued, "I would say that this was unexpected had I not heard and witnessed what I had. I don't expect him to come back after what he did. I think he will hate our people after this."

Anger and sadness leaked out a little, "He isn't like you or anyone else here. He takes most people at face value, and he knows who his enemies are. You don't know what he has been through and to still come out of that without prejudice." I stopped for a second to see Sha-Ren had backed away from my fury. I shook my head, "I think we are done here. If you want to make it up to me starting now, then you will leave."

Sha-Ren hesitated for a moment before nodding, "As you wish." He turned around before exiting. He closed the door as if he didn't want to let a sound echo from it.

I thought about what I had said. It doesn't matter if I had made the right choice or not. This hurt. I muttered out, "You don't know what he has been through." I knew exactly what he had been through and I still left him. At that moment, I learned that even my heart wasn't made of stone.


POV: Kyle

We made it to the caves leading out of the village. The tigers that lead me here stopped right at the entrance as Rhuya turned around to face me. She began to say, "This is your exit. We request that you never return to our-"

I didn't even let her continue as I just continued to walk as if they were all invisible to me. It wasn't my intent to be rude. It was just that I was mentally exhausted from being here for two days. Also, there was nothing left for me here in this village, so why would I come back? Did they honestly think I had the desire to come back to seek harm? Whatever they had against humans was beyond my control to correct.

I was shrouded with darkness from the caves which caused me to brandish a torch. Good thing I had a few left in my bag from before. I don't think I could make it through this darkness had I not at least prepared beforehand. Not like I was willing to turn around to see out those supplies.

I made it to a gate not even that far into the caves. A single tiger guarded it with his weapon at his side. The instant they saw me was when they got to their feet. They grabbed their weapon and spoke, "I see that they decided to not escort you all the way here."

"Seems that way. Anyways I can go through?"

He grunted out, "Of course. They should have at least taken you through the tunnels. There is more than one, but only one way to the other side."

I sighed, "I will make do." The tiger only nodded as he decided not to seek anymore conversation. He opened the gate for me to pass through. I walked by without a second glance, and the tiger closed the door shortly after I passed by. I am just happy to not receive such resistance to 'why I was there'. He must have known about when I was supposed to go through.

It didn't take long for the sound of echoes from my footsteps to be the only thing to keep me company. I didn't have a companion to ease the burden in my mind. I was alone on this journey now. I am uncertain if it will get easier or harder the longer I am on the road. I guess I am just going to have to find out.

I definitely didn't need any guide to lead me through these tunnels. The prints in the dirt were enough of an indicator to where I should go. If they wanted to hide their village better they should have done a better job at obscuring the way. Maybe they did it when they first made it through, but decades of isolation had made them lazy and complacent.

I shook my head. This doesn't deserve my concern. I shouldn't at all care about that place after all the mistreatment they decided to bestow on me.

The further I walked, the more I realized how this place was completely natural. I am sure they found a way to bore a hole into the rock right outside their village, but the rest of these tunnels seemed completely natural. There were points in which rock had crumbled from the cave ceiling collapsing and general degradation.

Finally, after what felt like ten minutes or so, I finally saw then light at the end of the darkness. Well, not exactly. It was just the abrupt end of the tunnel. I moved grabbed the rock with my free hand and used a little umph to move it to the side. Surprisingly, the rock seemed to obey my command. It slowly rolled to the side and gave way to the real light of day.

I found it a little ridiculous that they just expected me to make it all the way here, and also how they thought I wouldn't know what to do here. Sure, I figured it out accidentally, but I think they were more apathetic than anything else.

I walked out the entrance and made sure to roll the rock back into place. With the rock back in its original position, so was the feeling of being back where I belong in my soul. I felt better being back among the rest of China even though the only thing that separated me from here to that tiger village was this rock door.

I looked to the sky to determine the length at which I should make it back to the Jade Palace. If I am lucky, I should only have to spend one last night away from my home. It has been a little time since I have seen each of my friends, and I am certain that I have been away for long enough. I just hope that I can look at them the same after all I had gain, but more importantly through all I have lost.

My journey was seemingly cut short as something didn't settle right for me. The breeze has stopped as if to symbolize the shift in the uneasy atmosphere. My instant reaction was to duck into cover. So, I moved to behind a tree as I looked around for anything that would cause this reaction within me. I sat there silently as I took in everything I could. The shifting breeze, the sounds of the forest, the slight vibration from the ground…

Wait a second.

I placed my hand against a boulder that was situated against the tree I was behind to feel. The slight movement from the rock indicated that something was indeed moving. Past everything that has happened these last few weeks, I have to say that my impressed feeling of being also to know to do that did bring a small light of joy into my heart. The sound of marching soon followed as I began to feel uneasy once again.

It didn't take long for me to see the small force of bandits to come into view. My eyes narrowed at seeing them in such a large group of about forty to fifty members. A large croc led the group with a Ji in his grasp. Like usual, this was obviously the leader.

After a moment had passed, they made it to the cliff wall. More specifically, they had made it to the entrance to the cave that I had just exited through only moments ago. One of the members of their group, a wolf followed the large croc up to the entrance.

"This is the cave entrance."

The croc smiled at this, "You did not disappoint at all. I will make sure you get a little extra reward for you work." The wolf bowed before falling back into line. The croc took off his helmet as he looked at the door. He brushed his claws against the rock, "I have been waiting for the moment for a long time." He motioned with his paw, "This victory will be something I look forward to."

Something obscured from my view moved through the large crowd. It was only after a second did I realize what it was.

A cannon.

While smaller than what Shen possessed, it should easily penetrate through the rock. My look hardened as I understood what they were here for.

"We will build our new home over the burning wreckage of theirs. These lands will be ours to control." After he finished his sentence and backed away, the cannon was lit and fired at the doorway. The loud crack was followed by the sprinkling of rock. I even felt some against my head from where I was positioned. The dust settled to show the gaping hole in the cliff.

The large croc motioned forward, "It is time that we fight for our glory." The rest of his forces followed behind. The cannon and munitions were carried in the middle of the group, ready to lay waste to their foes.

I sat back against the trees as I contemplated what I should do. They were a force too large for me to face alone. Then again, I am not obligated to face them at all. The tigers have no intention of wanting me back in their village. Why should I even put myself out there to protect them? Hell, they probably heard the cannon and are preparing for them as I sit here.

A wave of guilt overwhelmed me as I knew I only had only one course of action. Regardless of how I had been treated and what I had lost to them, I was not going to allow them to parish like this. I may be just one man, but I have the potential to stop those bandits from wreaking havoc. It is my duty as a Kung Fu master to protect the innocent.

With the embers of my will to do what right, I got to my feet. Something within me told me to take the book from the bag. I didn't know why, but I was drawn to bring it for some reason. I decided not to argue with the illogical feeling. Maybe I felt like I was protecting it and I could only do that when it was with me? I don't entirely know.

I then placed my bag against the tree and made sure it was well hidden. I know what the potential consequences to what I was about to embark on and what reactions that I may receive, but I was going to protect them. It is just who I am. I am a protector.


POV: Tigress

The crackle of something explosive reverberated through the sky. It was like a strike of lightning followed by thunder, but there was no lightning. There weren't even clouds in the sky. If that is true, then where did that sound come from…

My mind instantly jumped to Shen and his weapon. That was the only thing that I knew that made that sound as the horrors of that weapon replayed in my mind. Impossible, they all rest at the bottom of Gongmen City Harbor in pieces.

As much as I wish to believe otherwise, the village is facing an immediate threat. It is my duty here now to protect these citizens like I would elsewhere. They much know the danger they are in.

I began to take off to the center of the village. If I can amass a small force, I can keep this out of the village center. I am sure that noise has caught the attention of the rest of the village. I can probably talk to Rong about setting up some force.

I soon made it to the center to see a sizable crowd gathering there to share their worry. Rong and the Council were trying to calm down everyone. He held out his paws and to garner their attention, "I know you are all worried about what you just heard. We are trying our best to find out what it was."

One female tiger yelled out, "Are we in danger?"

"How did they even find out about us?"

"Is that human behind this?"

A small look of disgust formed on my face as I sneered at that possibility. Now that Kyle was gone, they had stopped self-censorship of what they should say. A lot of them started to agree and wonder if he was indeed behind this. Soon, the citizens started to grow restless.

Sha-Ren soon yelled out. He was now donning some armor. A Dao was strapped, and he held up a commanding posture. He addressed them all, "I understand you are worried about what is happening. I am not saying there is nothing to worry about, but rest assured that our village guard is doing everything to protect the gate. If you would just be patient-"

One guard pushed through the crowd and addressed Rong and Sha-Ren, "They are attempting to breach the gate. The small bandit force from the forest are the ones behind this." As if to confirm the guard's words, a louder boom echoed from the direction of the caves. Everyone was instantly silent from that.

Sha-Ren understood what the threat was as he grunted in acknowledgement as he pushed through the crowd, "Get the rest of the guards from the barracks. Bring them to the gate entrance!" The guard bowed before running in the direction of the barracks. He didn't even waste any more time as he made way to the caves.

Rong addressed everyone with a commanding voice, "Head toward the shelters. Collect anyone who is not with us here now. Do not leave them until given the order to." Everyone did exactly as he said with no argument. They even hushed themselves as they moved as quickly as they could to the shelters.

I began to the opposite as I moved to the caves. If they have a cannon in their possession, then I have a duty to protect them as well as I can. Regardless of what has happened over the last couple of days, I have to perform my duty as if I were back fighting with the Five. They are going to need me.


POV: Kyle

The loud boom shook the caves as dust and small rocks fell from the ceiling. I crouched low to wait for them to exit the other side. It would be best for me to strike them when they face off against the tigers. I at least hope the tigers are there to help me with this fight…

After a moment of waiting, I moved up quickly and as quietly as I could muster. I could see the back end of their forces. If I was even a bit premature with my approach, I could be facing five or ten bandits at once. I am a skilled fighter, but even I might not come out of that one unscathed. I need to play this extremely intelligently.

I finally made it through the ruined gate to see the bodies of a couple of bandits and of the tiger gatekeeper. I crouched down to get a better look at what had happened. A deep stab wound was present on his stomach and his throat was slashed. His face was showing that he was relaxed and accepting of his fate in his last moments. His last moments were definitely painful, but he was at peace while he tried to protect his home.

A pang of guilt settled in my stomach as I looked down on him. This place is sure as hell not my home, but I am going to protect it like one. I have seen enough killing of the innocent, and I am not going to stand by as these bandits work to kill off this last sanctuary to tigers no matter how they have wronged me.

I got to my feet as a quickly made my way to the other side. The sounds of yelling and metal clashing told me that the fighting had started. The light at the other side showed the back end of their forces was finally coming out to make it into the fight. Now was my time to strike.

I started to sprint up behind the last of the bandits. The first on to notice me was a croc, and he didn't have a single moment to react. I jumped up and delivered a spin kick to his head. The impact caused him to crash his skull into the tunnel wall. Some of the rock crumbled from the force.

I turned my attention to the next two who noticed me. One of them swung their axe at me in a failed attempt to cut my head off. I ducked low and kicked their feet from under them. The next one was coming for a slash down and was flung back with a swift punch to their chest. It took me little time to strike down those three. Hopefully I am just as lucky with the rest of this.

I looked out to see both forces in the middle of their struggle against one another. A few injured tigers as they continued to battle the relentless bandits. It was just another day in the like of Kung Fu master.

I turned my attention to the cannon that was well beyond the reach of the tigers at the moment. The wolves that aimed the cannon looked about ready to fire. In the path of the barrel were some tigers I didn't know along with some I did. Rhuya will be among those to the brunt of the weapon if I don't do something about it now.

I sprinted past the bandit that had yet to notice my presence. I was giving up my element of surprise for the guards. Hopefully it is worth it.

The large croc who was leading the forces yelled to the cannon crew, "Fire."

The fuse of the cannon was lit right as I was in approaching from behind them to stop the strike. I jumped on the back of one of the wolves and made a mental image of where to strike. With a flip and my momentum now directed downward, I prepared to drive all my force at the end of the barrel. The guards in the way seemed to notice the predicament they were in as I was there to save them. Rhuya gave a look of utter surprise to see me there, but more importantly, there to protect them. I was too preoccupied at the moment to see.

My foot crashed down on the end of the cannon right as it fired. The supports to the cannon instantly failed from the impact. The crackle from the cannon was muffled by the amount of earthy debris that followed. I flew forward with a flip and skidded on my feet to join the tigers on the other front. The looks of surprise from everyone on both sides told me how unexpected and how awesome that entrance must have been. The fighting stopped for a moment in awe of what had just happened.

Then, the conflict continued with even greater ferocity. The croc leader glared daggers at me for taking out his move powerful weapon. I didn't even have time to deliver a look back before I was engaged once again.

I only noticed Rhuya to my side after she spoke. "What are you doing here? I thought it was clear not to come back."

I incapacitated one enemy and was faced with another. I did find time to respond, "It is my duty to protect the innocent. Regardless of how you view me, I will continue to fight for you."

She took a moment to collect herself both from the fighting and what I had just said. She growled out as she struck out at one of the croc bandits, "Alright. Just make sure to keep them away from my village."

I nodded as the fighting took me somewhere else. The skill of these bandits was had to determine. While some took no more than a few dodges and strikes back to take down, a few were a little more conservative. They would use their blade or hammer to attack, but then they would retreat back into their own defense. They could be more skilled than the average ones amongst them or not, but they were definitely smarter. This made them more dangerous.

The wolf I was facing was performing this technique as he would slash at me. Seeing as I was done with this tactic, I closed the distance between use and struck his wrist. This resulted him dropping his weapon and now he was at the mercy of me. A few swift strikes to his stomach knocked him back and knocked out.

I let out a sign of relief to see that their forces were starting to somewhat dwindle. A smack happened behind me, but not against me. I turned around to see a croc sliding face down toward my feet. I looked up at who had stricken the croc as my breath was caught in my throat. Of course, I expected her to be fighting for this village, but I didn't expect for me to run into her.

Tigress finally looked back at me with her glowing amber eyes. A hint of sadness was present in them, but I am not entirely sure with what else. It was an expression that I don't think I have run into ever or at least for a long time.

She was the first to say something, "I didn't think you would come back."

I struck out at a charging bandit and looked back at her with a blank expression. I wasn't prepared to show anything else, "Well, I heard them coming for your village and even saw them go through the cave. Who would I be if I didn't do all in my ability to fight for you all?"

Tigress's ears went slightly down when I said, 'your village'. She responded back, "Look, I just want to say-"

"We don't have time to get into this." I launched myself into a spin kick to knock the weapon out of the hands of one of the wolves. I finished him off with the other foot that came around. I continued, "We have to focus on this fight right now. After that, we don't need to discuss anything. After this, I am gone." Her expression deepened more into what it was. Sadness and… guilt? I don't entirely know.

We both hit a few more enemies before I brought up our dialogue once again, "Look, I didn't mean it like that. I understood that it was no easy decision, and you were forced to make it. I would have killed for the opportunity to see another human face in this vast world just to make it a little smaller. Maybe then it wouldn't be as confusing as it is now." I thrusted me fist into the maw of a bandit and was rewarded with a loud crack. I began to finish my thought, "With that, after everything that I have been through with you, the Five, Po, and even Master Shifu, I would never abandon them. To me, that is my real family. It would take a lot more than common heritage and looks to separate me from that. And I am telling you right now that you think that you have grown all you can at the Jade Palace. I am telling you that you haven't. You think you are in the shadow of the Dragon Warrior. I am telling you that you just need to move to the side."

It seems the more I talked, the more I was not focusing on the fight. A hammer struck me in the face. I flipped around and landed face down from that blow. However, I got up slowly and turned to look at the bandit that had struck me. His look was one of pride until it shifted to fear from the vicious gaze I was striking him back with. I got to my feet broke him down with a few strong strikes to his sides and to finish him with one under his maw with my foot. I roared out when I hit him with my last strike.

I looked around to see that only a few stragglers remained out of the once large bandit force. Some of the tigers did fall to them, but a whole lot more of the bandits seemed to have fallen to the tigers. However, something seemed to be missing from the bandits. Wait, where was their leader?

I looked around with a narrow-eyed gaze trying to pinpoint where they could have gone. Finally, I heard commotion in the direction of the town. It sounded like someone was trying to break down a door somewhere.

My instant reaction was to go in the direction of the village. I heard an order from Rong, if I remember his name correctly. He must have joined the fight at some point, but that wasn't what I was really concerned about. It was who he was sending right behind me and who was coming. Rhuya, Sha-Ren, and Tigress followed behind as I sprinted into town.

The other tigers soon caught up with me, and we all traveled as one pack to the village. I dared not look any of them in the eye in an attempt to keep my mind clear. If we are going to fight together as a cohesive 'team', then we need the mentality of one.

We finally made it to the town to see a small group of bandits with the bandit leader a part of the group. They attempted to break down a door, and the sounds of screaming came from the other side. It was safe to say that a group of tigers were hiding here. This bandit was no longer trying to win. He was attempting to cause innocent casualties.

Allowing the enemy into the heart of their village did show me that the tigers had become complacent toward their own security. Sure, they send out patrols and have a hidden village, but they treat that is all the protection they needed while vicariously judging the outside world. It shows me that they have lost touch with what was out there and what threats they really need to watch.

The first of their group only seemed to turn around right when my fist contacted their face. His head smashed into the rock to create a spider web fracture in the wall. I turned around to see the surprised looks of the bandits. They had no time to react as they each took a strike or two only to fall right after. That only left the large croc bandit.

Sha-Ren growled out an order, "Surrender immediately or face the capital punishment."

The croc chuckled before growling out, "Boy, I am already dead. Killed now or executed later, it doesn't matter." He readied his Ji with an aggressive defense pose, "At least this way, I can take a few of you down with me."

Sha-Ren charged with his blade striking down at the croc. He much larger enemy redirected his blow to the ground. He then grabbed the male tiger by the scruff of his neck and tossed him against the wall. A foot smacked him in the face as Rhuya charged forward. She then lunged forward with her weapon only to miss its mark. The butt-end of the crocs Ji was then thrusted into her stomach before she was kicked away.

The bandit leader taunted, "Two down, two to go. At least make it a challenge for me."

Tigress and I gave momentary glances at one another before charging forward. The bandit swiped his weapon horizontally in an attempt to cut at us. I slid low as Tigress went high. She kicked out at the croc and caused him to stagger. Before he had an option to refocus, I struck out at the wood of his weapon to remove its blade.

I thought that made his weapon mostly useless, but that just changed the dynamic of the fight. He used the rest of the staff to smack me right across the face. I fell down hard as I could now taste a bit of iron. I spat out a mouthful of blood before jumping to my feet to attack once more. I was running up on them right as Tigress got kicked back.

This time as the croc bandit swung his weapon, I moved to the side and delivered a strong palm strike to his chest. He smacked into the adjacent wall from the building he was attacking. Tigress followed after with a strong kick to indent him further into the wall. At this point, he was slightly dazed from the attacks and his grip on the remains of his weapon failed. He was now defeated.

Sha-Ren and Rhuya approached us from behind and pointed their weapons at the bandit leader. Sha-Ren addressed the bandit leader right as the croc was regaining his bearings. "It seems that you have failed. Now, you still have an option to do this cleanly. We might even show you mercy."

The bandit's laughter started as raspy wheezes before growing into a clearer chuckle, "Your mercy is a joke. You have cut down my men in the forests in the past and in these fields in the present. Our attack was one of self-preservation. To me…" He grunted as he situated himself, "An honorable death is what I seek after my failure here."

He chuckled more as he made a swift moved against Sha-Ren. However, the tiger was ready as he swung his blade across the croc's chest. Blood started to seep from the wound and pooled at the dying croc's feet. His breathing soon ceased after a moment.

Silence greeted us to embrace us with the feeling of security once again. I was the only one to look down at the dead bandit leader's body in thought. His last acts were desperate acts behind a cool demeanor. His plan may have very well been more successful had he had been more careful and had the tigers not been so lucky to have masters fighting for it.

The door of the refuge soon opened with the tigers beginning to spill out with curious looks. They saw the dead and incapacitated bodies of the bandits that surrounded them. One-by-one, their looks soon fell upon me. Their looks weren't of those looking at a protector. Instead, they looked upon me as an invader.

"What is that thing still doing here!"

"Why aren't you guards attacking him!"

"He has seeking revenge."

I just looked on with a feeling of disappointment. Did I really expect them to accept me more than an enemy? Not really. A little part of me was looking toward the more positive nature of this place, and it seems like I came up with nothing. So, I just sat there and took the heat of what had been done to them all.

Soon, the louder voice of the crowd broke through with a damning accusation, "He is the Harbinger of Doom! He has brought our village nothing but trouble since he has come here. He is just another monster!"

The crowd started to grow as more people move out of the building as they all joined in on the yelling. I was being scolded for helping their village, there is no other way of putting it. I don't even know why I was staying here to take it.

I then felt the book in vest as I pulled it out once more to look at it. I was drawn to its dark thoughts and history. However, I looked at it as a beacon of hope. My people had devastated themselves and this world. Their final memories were ones of pain and misery.

I looked out at these tigers to see that they weren't angry. No, they were scared of me. It then clicked for me. My world and this world are so similar in so many ways. If you look beyond the beings that inhabit it, they are identical. The war, greed, and fear among other things that were a part of my world are affecting this world as well. My path was never just to be a protector of them, it was to guide them through the mistakes that had been made thousands of years ago. It was to show them a better way and leave a legacy that will continue to guide the future generations. I am the last human. I am the guide that they deserve.

Then it hit me. The voices of the tigers faded in the background as I felt as if I were surrounded by complete silence. The air brushing against my cheeks and the heat from the sun enveloped me like a protective layer. I felt rejuvenated. I felt my power grow within. I finally pieced together what I was feeling. It was something I had been searching since I had arrived here so long ago. Peace.

I still felt the pain from everything that had happened, but they have all helped me understand my place here. I will always carry these things with me, but I understood that they all contributed to who I am now. I can only use this to grow and decide what I need to do for the future. I can only continue on from here.

A small smile presented itself on my face as I turned around and left. I never noticed how the crowd still screamed as I walked away, how Rhuya was thinking to herself and Sha-Ren just watched silently, or how Tigress looked at the tigers with a look of dazed anger. No, I just kept walking. I have friends and family waiting for me back home.


POV: Tigress

My rage was uncontainable. I looked on at the crowd as they screamed at Kyle. Then, the words finally hit, "He is the Harbinger of Doom! He has brought our village nothing but trouble since he has come here. He is just another monster!"

Monster…

I found myself reliving the events of my past. The countless times I was defined as a monster only when I wished to make friends. A monster who can only cause harm and destruction was who I was defined as.

Every ounce of my being knew what it was like to be the monster. To be looked at with fear as if no one was on your side to understand who you really were. I was fortunate to have Master Shifu… My father.

I looked at them all with anger and hate. I was completely disgusted with my species. Sha-Ren just stood to the side as he just sat there with a blank expression. He had watched idly as they yelled. He knew exactly what Kyle had done for this village.

Then, Kyle just turned around and left. He walked away from them all as they yelled behind his back. I looked down with a moment of thought. I now knew that this place was not where I belonged. Shame overtook me as I knew that I belonged back with my own family. This place had nothing left to show me. All it showed was pain that I have long since given up.

I began to run to my mother's home. I didn't know where she was, but this could not wait. I couldn't let him slip out of my grasp again.

I made it to her home extremely quickly and instantly began to gather my things. I was moving as quickly as I could and made sure not to mess up the furniture. I didn't even notice when my mothers basically appeared behind me.

"I see that you now know what you need to do."

I turned around swiftly as I looked at the only connection I really had left of this place. My mother was the only thing left that really drew me in, and I know I don't want to just leave her. I have to do this, though. "I can't leave him. I don't really belong here."

Xiulan smiled with a touch a sadness, "No, you don't belong here." I looked at her with confused sadness. "You belong out there, protecting all of China against all threats. I wished for you to stay and for you to be my daughter once again, but I think that time passed long ago."

I walked up to her and swiftly drew her into a hug. There aren't many people I am willing to show emotion toward, but she was one of them. She was apart of my life for such a small amount of time, but she should have been there for me always. I shook my head, "You will always be my mother."

"I know, but you seem to have a family out there as well. It is time for you to go. I will miss you."

I drew away from her, "I will miss you as well." I ran out the door and began chase after Kyle. While we were bound to have an awkward trip back, hopefully something can be salvaged between us. I am not usually optimistic as I always look at things on equal terms. This, however, is something I really wish for.


POV: Kyle (Last time, I promise)

I made it to the caves with little time passing to hear footsteps behind me. I was curious to see who it was only to be greeted by a familiar female tiger.

I looked at her with confusion, "Rhuya? What are you doing here? Look, I know not to come back-"

She held up her paw to silence me, "That is not why I am here." She took a moment to think, "Look, I know that my village has been extremely hostile toward you." I nodded with an indifferent expression. She continued, "But I think you should know that I don't think you are that bad. You fought for my village with everything that had been done and everything we could have done. I am not sure I would have done the same. For that, you earn my respect." She reach out with her paw for me to shake.

I took a moment to express my complete surprise before returning the gesture and shaking her paw. I thought for a moment before reaching into my vest. I pulled out the little journal that I had carried with me these past few days with one last glance. I then held it out for here to take, "Here."

She grabbed it with a confused expression before analyzing it, "What is it."

I gave a little smirk, "It might be common ground. You might catch a bit of wisdom from it. I don't know, but something tells me that you need it. Perhaps the errors of my civilization can teach you something."

She looked at me with a confused expression, "Your civilization?"

I smiled at her confused expression, "Goodbye, Rhuya." I then turned around and left her by herself. Something deep within me told me that the book would be safe with her. I had learned my lesson from it, it is time for it to teach someone else.

I had walked through the wreckage within the cave and came out the other side to grab my stuff. I checked on the condition of everything before I made the journey back to the Jade Palace. It has been a roller-coaster of a day, and I will just be happy to be home tomorrow. I kind of understand the point of view of Po during our last day fighting in Gongmen City.

The distinct sound of running met my ears. What could Rhuya want now? However, I was greeted by a more familiar female tiger. "Tigress?" Scratch that, it is about to get even crazier.

She looked at me with regret, "I decided that what you said was right. After seeing them call you a monster, I finally saw that I had nothing to learn there. I can't believe that I forgot where my true family resides in the pursuit of finding out who I really am. I now know that it isn't common people who make you who you are, it is your story or where you had been and what you had gone through."

I nodded at her with a small bit of sadness, "So you are coming back with me." It was more of a statement than a question.

"I hope that you can forgive me for what I had said, and I hope that everything between us is alright."

I contemplated for a moment. What she had done had broken my heart, and even with the peace of mind I still feel it within. I also knew that I still loved her deeply as I can see that she loves me the same. However, my path was clear. "I forgive you." A look of relief overtook her. I continued, "But I cannot assure you that everything is alright between us. Actually, I am not even sure if they were before last night. The near-deaths and the injuries and pain that we have both endured in each other's company has poisoned our relationship and has clouded ourselves from what we need to share."

I approached her but still kept my distance, "We both do need a little time alone to figure out what the best relationship between us should be. I am not saying that I don't love you, but I am saying that it might be true that we aren't meant to be together. What I am saying is that we need whatever we have between us to be healthy."

Tigress's ears slide back. We were both feeling a little pain, but we both knew I was right. The foundations of what we had were tainted, and we need something new to take root that will be stronger. If that is to be just friendship, so be it.

We both stood there with pained expressions, but a nod from her showed that she understood. We were both on new paths. Those were new paths that we had to take alone.


He finally knows what his place in the world is. All it took was a pain, a hard decision, a fight, and yelling... Actually, that is quite a bit in such a little time. Also, I am taking my own interpretation of what Inner Peace means. I am basically thinking of it as self-realization of ones place in the cosmos. He now knows what he is. That doesn't mean he is immune to negative thoughts like sadness, anger, etc. It is just like Po realizing who he is.

Beyond that point (just trying to get the message across if it was confusing), also bet you didn't see the turn around of Rhuya. It wasn't entirely my intention, but I wanted to show that he had an unexpected impacts on someone. Hers felt sort of right. Not swayed by words but by action.

Please feel free to favorite, follow, and/or review the story. I would like to welcome those who have already done so and thank them. This story continues to grow because of all of you. I will make sure to respond to any message I can ASAP or at least after some thinking.

Lastly, I do have a plan for future development of the story. Since I am planning to rework the 3rd movie more than the 2nd (and WAY more than the 1st), I am going to make changes along the way. With that, I am confident in giving a hint. It is a minor spoiler, but more of an insinuation. I am going to be adding a character to the Jade Palace and to the story to stay. Now, feel free to guess, but I am not going to give a direct answer. I am saying right now that you cannot trust any answer I may give. You could answer and I will just say yes for the hell of it.

That is all I have to say. Oh, maybe don't expect a Chapter 48 so soon. I don't want to raise the update expectation so much right before my break.

Until Next Time,

Forsvaret-Komandir