The group slowly descended into the catacombs, a deep feeling of dread filling their souls as the sound of moaning and weeping could be heard echoing through the stone halls. At that moment, each individual dreaded the possibility of what they might see, for if what Hu said was any indication, Jindiao's attack had been outright devastating. While the medic didn't have a full assessment of casualties, he did admit he expected it to be in the hundreds. Luckily, well, depending on how the individual might look at it, the casualties thus far had been military and not civilian, thanks to the evacuation.
"Ox is dead?" Hu inquired after a long few minutes of silence. Looking to Hu, who had looked over his shoulder, Han, who's left arm Su was clinging tightly too, gave a solemn nod, which seemed to confuse the medic. "What is it?"
"Mu Lang got to him first," Chang said, flanked by a very nervous Jade who was anxious to see if any of her clan sisters survived.
"Did you get any information out of him before hand?" Hu inquired. Han once again nodded, this time followed by a verbal response.
"We did," he said in a somber voice. "We will discuss it with the others."
Deciding not to push the topic further, Hu simply nodded as he returned his attention to where he was going. Upon taking another turn, the groups' eyes widened at what they beheld, save for Hu who quickly stepped away to resume his duties. Throughout the catacombs, among the somber citizens, were rows of dead and wounded soldiers, the deceased being covered in clothe, while the wounded were being tended to. The very sight of the carnage took Han's breath away, only for it to return uneven...shaken.
"My God," Chang whispered, completely stunned by what he saw. After a few minutes of just staring at the seemingly endless rows of bodies, the group, lead by a very anxious Jade, began to slowly traverse the deathly image. Everyone, from the living to the dead, where placed against the sides of the catacombs allowing a central walkway that would give easier access to move around. As the group continued to walk, they beheld a series of heart wrenching sights.
A young buck weeping as he and another soldier, who had placed a comforting hand on the other's shoulder, pulled a clothe shroud over the still body of a dead wolf soldier, who Han surmised was the buck's best friend, given his current emotional state.
"General," came a weak voice, causing Han to turn and take in the sight of a clearly exhausted Nan, whose arm, having received a nasty cut, was being sown shut by Hu, who was quickly joined by a worried Wan, who helped to offer comfort to the young buck. Nan actually managed to smile as Wan took a seat beside him, gently taking his hand hers. Wan then proceeded to bring Nan's head toward her, leaning it on her shoulder. To Han, Su and Wing's collective surprise, Nan seemed to fall asleep instantly. The very sight seemed to bring comfort to them as they smiled sadly at the tender scene.
"No." The trio's attention was quickly brought to Jade as she let out a pained whisper. In an instant, Jade, followed closely by Chang, bolted toward a more open area in the catacombs. Since they had arrived, Jade had been scanning the wounded and dead for her sisters. Upon taking in the traditional garb of the Palace Guard into her sight, Jade's heart began to break when she saw a good number them gathered together, seemingly surrounding something, or rather...someone.
Han, Su and Wing watched sadly as Jade cautiously approached the group. And as Han observed, the first to greet Jade was Jun, her cheeks stained with tears as she let out a strangled sob, more tears flowing as she threw her self toward Jade, who quickly embraced the weeping doe, her own resolve breaking as she looked down to the cause of the young doe's anguish. Soon, the trio saw Jade's tears break forth like a dam breaking up as she slowly knelt in the middle of the guards circle, where, as they could observe, a body was most definitely placed. A body that broke Jade's heart to see.
"Oh Hao," Jade softly wept as she cried alongside Xiao and Tou Lu, the latter sobbing hard into her deceased sister's chest, while the lynx was being held close by a somber Fan Tong. All around them, the other doe's mourned the loss of their friend and sister, one even bringing Jun into a tight embrace as the young doe sobbed at the loss of her sister and mentor.
As this happened, Han, in a seemingly catatonic state, began to cast his gaze over the catacombs. As he observed, a few other guards had been killed and wounded, being tended to by other guards. Before long, Han's gaze froze a very heartbreaking sight.
From what Han could see, The Furious Five, or rather what remained of the Furious Five, Master Shifu, and the remaining Four Constellations, were also in the same state of mourning. Han's heart broke when he was able to take in the still forms of Monkey, a scorched slash across his chest, and Mantis, his body broken in so many ways, but still recognizable.
A tear fell from Han's eye as his gaze drifted over to a motionless Croc, his body laying in such a way that it appeared that he could have been sleeping. But Han knew better.
"May you find peace in the Spirit Realm My Friend," Han whispered as he turned to Su, the latter gently resting her head on Han's shoulder as the two and Wing observed all that had transpired.
"All this," whispered a visibly saddened Wing, "and for what?"
"It's war, Wing," Han whispered after a moment, "and like war, I don't think any of us really know." Upon saying this, Han soon took on a determined expression as he took in the sight of a scraped and bruised Shi Long and Huifang, the former comforting the latter as she too mourned for Haoxin.
"But one thing I do know about war," Han said with sheer determination upon fully understanding what must be done, "is that one day, it has to end." With that said, Han began to walk toward Shi Long, followed closely by Su and Wing. Upon reaching the reptile, Han placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, prompting Shi Long to slowly raise her gaze to meet his.
"Han," she said in sad, but pleasantly surprised voice. Upon hearing the mention of her uncle's name, Huifang slowly raised her head to meet his gaze. Upon seeing this, Han smiled warmly at his niece.
"Hello Sweet Hui," Han cooed as he gently brought her into a loving embrace.
"Hey Uncle Han," she responded with a sad chuckle. After a few moments the pair pulled apart, only for Han to bring his hands up to cup Huifang's cheeks, his thumbs gently wiping away her falling tears.
"Huifang," Han began gently, "may I talk to Shi Long alone for a moment." Looking to her girlfriend hesitantly for a moment, Huifang relented when the komodo dragon sent a comforting nod and smile. Pulling away from Han, said buck, after informing Wing to get the other members of their earlier conversation, pulled Shi Long to a secluded space, leaving Huifang with Su , the feline sharing a tender embrace with her "niece."
"What is it?" Shi long inquired once she and Han were away from the others.
"The Orb," he began, cutting right to the chase, "you still have it?" At first confused, Shi Long's eyes widened when she remembered their plan.
"OH, YES!" she softly exclaimed, presenting said orb to Han who gladly took it. Eying the surprisingly dense metal orb, Han's mind seemed to drift off as he gazed at the intricate red markings that decorated the orb. For a few minutes, Han just stood there, a vacant stare on his face as he held the round object. All Shi Long could do was stand their, the situation becoming quite awkward until Wing returned, followed by her sisters and Huifang, Chang and Jade, Hu, Xiao, Master Shifu and the remainder of the Five, and the Constellations.
Pulling his attention away from the orb, Han looked to the others, his heart once again heavy from taking in their somber demeanor. Chang held Jade close to him, the fur on her cheeks damp from crying, the same as Xiao who leaned into Fan Tong's side. Tigress had found her self in Po's embrace, the usually hardcore feline struggling, and failing, to keep her tears for her fallen friends from flowing. Wan stood alongside Hu, who, much like everyone else, appeared more tired than anything, for it had been a very tiring experience. Shi long went back to stand beside Huifang, who was still being comforted by Su. The remainder of the group, being Crane with a somber Viper coiled around his neck, as well as the other three members of the constellations stood to the side.
For a hard two minutes, the group just stood in silence, no one daring to say a word, or even breath for that matter. The tension was already unbearably strained from everything that had happened. But, as Han knew all too well, the tension, needed to be released.
"We all know what must be done," he finally said, his eyes sweeping over the faces that surrounded him, each head solemnly nodding in agreement. Turning to Shi Long, Han needed to clarify something that was actually an oversight from earlier on. "The question is 'how?'" After a brief moment of hesitation, Shi Long answered.
"The orb itself does not draw chi," she began with a shaky breath, "but rather what lies within it. But what it is, I have no idea. I do know, that the markings are actually of a language of a bygone era. I was able to decipher them." It was at that moment that Shi Long fell eerily silent. This did little to ease the nerves of those around her.
"What is it, Shi Long?" Xiao finally asked. After another moment, Shi Long steeled herself to reveal what needed to be said.
"To obtain what is inside," the lizard continued, "it requires, as said in the markings, 'The Sacrifice of a Warrior.'" As if on cue, all eyes suddenly turned to Po, who couldn't help but let out a loud groan of annoyance.
"SERIOUSLY!? THIS AGAIN?!" he all but screamed.
"No Po," Shi long whispered. This actually confused everyone. If Po wasn't the "Warrior," then who was?
"'The Sacrifice of a Warrior who has lead hundreds into battle,
who has the heart of a soldier,
but the soul of a peacemaker.
Only they will receive what lies within
upon accepting their duty.'"
As Shi Long spoke, all eyes drifted toward the only person who fit that very description. Han looked to the orb still in his hand, the piece of metal now feeling even heavier than it had been, as he now knew what had to be done. Looking to the others, Han could see their eyes filled with great worry, Su especially who, without warning, lunged toward Han, wrapping her arms around his chest as she began to weep, her tears staining his tunic as she did so.
"Please don't do this," she sobbed weakly, pulling away from him only to grab his face, his handsome, bearded face that she may never see again.
"There has to be another way," Chang pleaded, tears of his own forming in his eyes.
"Chang's right," Su sobbed, looking into Han's eyes while she took his hand and placed it on her stomach as she spoke. "Han, think of us...think of our child." That caught everyone by surprise.
"Su," Wu asked warily as she steeped forward, "what are you talking about?" It was at that moment that Su realized she had just let the cat out of the bag. But, before she could explain, Han did it for her.
"That's what Ox said before he died," Han explained with a sad smile, "he said 'that child of yours is going to be something special.'" Upon hearing this, Su let out an involuntary chuckle as she once again wrapped her arms around Han. Chang, on the other hand, was having none of it.
"Han," he began in a low voice, "I cannot allow you to do this." Pulling away from Su, Han glared hard at his captain.
"It's not up for discussion, Chang," Han growled. It was at this point that Chang was starting to lose his patience.
"Sir," he growled back, putting emphasis on the word sir as he did so, his voice rising to the point of screaming as he continue to speak, "as your captain, it is my duty to help guide you to make the best decisions possible, something I believe YOU ARE FULLY INCAPABLE OF DOING!"
"YOU'RE RIGHT!" Everyone's eyes went wide in shock, even Chang was shocked to hear his general speak to him in such a way. Thankfully, the group was far enough away from everyone else as it would have been awkward to have been present at that moment. "What I am planning to do," Han continued in a more even voice, "what I am about to do...it makes no sense, I have no idea what is suppose to be done or how this ends, it is a GUT...FEELING!"
"Han," Chang began after taking a moment to calm down, "you have to understand..."
"No Chang," Han interrupted, "for once you will understand. Since you became my captain, you have helped me become a greater General then I could have ever hoped to be. And it was all because of your faith. Now, I ask you to but that faith in me once again, as I will you." It was at that moment that Chang realized he would not win this argument. He noticed that even Su realized that Han was right. Letting out a sigh, Chang stepped aside, a silent indication that he would let Han pass.
"Not yet," Han said with a warm smile, "first I need Xinshi to..." Han's voice faltered as he noticed the somber expression on the other's faces. Even Xiao began weeping once again as Fan Tong consoled her. It was at that moment that he understood.
Xinshi was gone as well. But he knew that this was no time for mourning.
"Crane," Han said as he turned to the spindly avian, "fly to Jindiao's camp, and tell him...that I will come to him to negotiate terms of surrender...alone."
He's definitely lost it, Chang thought to himself, his eyes wide in shock. But, upon noticing the orb still in Han's hand, he understood what was to happen. As Crane did as he was told, Po noticed that Han just stood in place, his gaze hovering over each of them.
"What, uh, what are you doing there Han?" Po inquired, slightly unnerved. Han merely chuckled at his friend.
"Taking one last look Po," Han responded as he pulled Su close to his side, "at...my family."
Han now stood at the edge of forest road that led to the Forbidden City, the tell tale sighs of evening creeping in. Crane had returned just ten minutes before to inform him that Jindiao had accepted his offer to meet him. Holding the Chi Orb in his hand, Han couldn't help but wonder what he was suppose to do. That is until he thought over what Shi Long had said were etched in the markings.
Only they will receive what lies within upon accepting their duty.
While he knew it was a long shot, Han realized what was needed to unlock the orb. Bringing the metal sphere to his lips, Han closed his eyes as whispered to the orb.
"I am prepared to die."
At that moment, the markings on the orb began to glow a bright red. After a few moments, Han noticed that a small latch had opened on the orbs surface. Peering inside the orb, Han's eyes widened to see what appeared to be a necklace. On the necklace appeared to be a stone pendant. But upon closer inspection, Han could see that the stone was in fact the rare red jade. Tentatively taking the necklace into his hand, Han allowed the orb to drop to the ground with a thud. Upon examining the red jade, Han could see that the jade itself bore the same, although painstakingly small markings of the orb.
"I have to be wearing it," he said to himself as he came to the realization. Wasting no time, Han proceeded to place the necklace around his neck, promptly hiding it under his under tunic so that Jindiao would not see it. After taking a few minutes to steel himself, Han began to walk into the forest.
"He should have been here by now master," Mu Lang said in agitation, her hackles raised as she grew even more inpatient.
"Calm yourself, Mu Lang," Jindiao instructed with a smile, "China wasn't built in a day." Shrinking back under the dragon's glare, Mu Lang simply nodded, whimpering like a pup who had been caught with her hand in the cookie jar. Meanwhile, Jindiao merely chuckled to himself. He always felt that Han was an old fool, but this really takes the cake. He almost didn't believe the message that had been delivered to him by the distinguished Master Crane that Han wished to talk terms of surrender.
Oh, there will be surrender, Hanfang, Jindiao thought to himself, Only you will not be around to see it. At that moment, Jindiao could hear footsteps approaching, before long, his smile widened even more as Han stepped into the clearing that he and his forces were stationed in.
Looking around, Han could see rows upon rows of terra cotta warriors, their demonic red eyes staring right at him. While most would be scared witless, Han kept his composure as he continued to approach Jindiao, stopping only when he was about halfway toward the tyrannical reptile.
"General Hanfang," Jindiao greeted with mock civility, "I am so glad you could join us." Mu Lang smiled wickedly as she heard this, a clear indication to Han that this was going to go the way he thought.
"I am here, Jindiao," Han began with a determined expression as he stood to full height, "I have come to negotiate." Jindiao smiled evilly upon hearing this, finally seizing the opportunity to reveal his plan.
"No," he growled menacingly, "you have come to die." An evil chuckle sounded throughout the clearing as Jindiao began to circle his long, serpentine body around Han, continuing to speak as he did so.
"You know General, in my time in that confounded urn, I came to the realization that, as long as people like you and these Kung Fu masters live, there will always be one thing that stands as a foil to my plans." Han quirked an eyebrow at this.
"And what is that?" he inquired, leading Jindiao to growl out his answer.
"Hope...once I am through with you," the dragon continued, "and those stupid pretenders, no one, not even your beloved regiment, will dare oppose me." With that said, Jindiao reeled his head back, taking a deep breath as an unearthly light could be seen in his throat. Han knew what was about to happen...and he was ready. But before the inevitable, he was bound to get the last word.
"So long as there is good in the world," he said, calmly closing his eyes as he spoke, "there is always hope."
With that said, Jindiao blasted Han with burning dragon firing, throwing the buck back a good 50 feet before his limp body came to a stop on it's side. Returning to his previous position beside Mu Lang, Jindiao motioned for said wolf to examine Han's body. Walking to the still form of her adversary, Mu Lang knelt down beside him.
Placing her hand in front of his nose and mouth, Mu Lang felt no breath.
Placing her hand on his neck, Mu Lang felt no pulse.
Looking back to her master, Mu Lang shared his evil smile at what had transpired.
Hanfang, General of the Eighth Royal Regiment, was dead.
"Prepare our forces to move out at dawn," Jindiao instructed Mu Lang, a look of confusion forming on the wolf's face.
"Why dawn, master?" Jindiao chuckled menacingly.
"Their fear and unrest will sweeten our victory."
...
Darkness
...
Darkness fading into light
...
Light forming into vision
...
Then a voice...a child's voice
...
"Come on Uncle Han, it's time to go."
At that moment Han's eyes snapped open as he took a sharp breath. Bolting upright, he found himself sitting in a chair in the middle of a rather small living space, wood smoldering in a nearby fireplace. Feeling someone tugging on his sleeve, Han looked down, only for his eyes to widen upon seeing a young fawn in a simple tan tunic and black trousers, the little doe's emerald eyes sparkling as she smile broadly at him.
"Come on Uncle Han," the little doe giggled, running out of a nearby door, from which the sound and smell of the ocean could be perceived.
"Huifang?" Han whispered, as he slowly rose out of his seat, hesitantly walking after the young doe who looked so much like his niece at that age. Han suddenly froze as he passed a mirror hanging on the wall beside the door. Looking into the mirror, Han was surprised to see a strapping young buck, barely into his twenties, dressed in a neatly kept blue military uniform. But what surprised Han was the fact that the buck's blonde mane and and clean shaven face showed no sign's of greying, or aging for that matter. Bringing a hand up, Han could see that it was in fact him in the mirror...when he was much younger.
"You gonna just stand there, or are you gonna walk with us?" Han instantly froze at the sound of a voice he had not heard in a long time. Turning slowly, Han was met with the sight of another young buck, his tan-colored fur and rusty mane complimented greatly by his red tunic and bespectacled teal eyes.
"Chi," Han rasped out as he beheld the buck he had not seen in a long, the last of which being at the latter's funeral.
"Hello Big Brother," Chi responded, the smile on his face widening even more. Outstretching his arm, Chi led Han outside. Upon stepping out of the door, Han could see that they were on the doorstep of a beach side shack, the smell of salt water tantalizing his nostrils as so many memories came back. Looking down to the beach itself, Han could see little Huifang playing with her mother, who looked so much like her daughter, save for a sea-blue hanfu with wave patterns, as well as her stunning golden eyes. Feeling on hand on his shoulder, Han turned to meet the warm gaze of his little brother.
"We have much to talk about," he said.
After moving down to the beach to join little Huifang and her mother, the group began to walk down the shoreline, with Han and Chi lagging behind as the two females walked ahead, the former sporting a broad smile when he saw his niece pick up a very particular sea-shell.
"So I'm dead?" Han asked out of the blue looking to his brother, who squinted before answering.
"Well...yes and no," Chi said. "You see, while your earthly body is dead, your soul is still attached. What you see here is a memory, now linked to the Spirit Realm. Really in the end, you can make that choice." Han was astounded.
"You mean I can go back?" Han whispered with excitement, "I can go back to Huifang, Su, all of them?" Chi chuckled at his brother's enthusiasm before answering.
"Yes," he said with a sad smile, one that Han quickly caught on to. Han then realized what his brother was implying.
"Chi," Han said hesitantly, both stopping in their tracks, "I would love nothing more than to stay with you. Believe me, I have missed you so much, that I would have given anything just to see your face again. And know that I have, I realize that it's not my time. I...I am going to be a father. A-and I want to be there for my child and their mother, so that I can experience what you had." Looking into his brother's eyes as he spoke, Han was relieved to see only love and understanding.
"Han," Chi began as he cupped both of his brother's cheeks, "you have become a far better man than I could have ever hoped to be. And you will make an amazing father. I mean, just look at Huifang. Because of you, her mother and I could not be more proud of the woman she has become." Han smiled lovingly at his brother, a smile that soon took on a teasing nature.
"So you have no problem with Huifang and Shi Long...y-you know...?"
"The only thing a father could ever want of his child is for them to be happy," Chi said with a laugh, pulling away from Han, only for his smile to take on a more somber note. "But tell me Han, when you return, will YOU truly be happy?"
"What do you mean?" Han inquired.
"Do you feel how young you are now?" For the first time, Han actually noticed that his body felt lighter, his limbs felt stronger, and his mind felt sharper. Noticing that Han did in fact take this into account, Chi continued. "What does that tell?" In an instant, Han knew.
"I'm tired, Chi." Upon hearing this, Chi smiled.
"The chapter of general in the book of your life is over Han. It's time. And I think Su, the girls, and Chang know that too."
"Chang?" Han asked incredulously.
"Chang has realized he's taken about as much as he can bare. The same with Jade." Upon hearing this, Han lowered his head in deep thought, before finally nodding.
"As for the others," Chi continued, inclining his head to the area behind Han, "tell them not to worry too much about their friends." Looking behind him, Han felt a warm smile tug at his lips as he took in the forms of friends recently lost; Long, Haoxin, Monkey, Mantis, Xinshi, Croc, even Ox relaxing on the beach as casually as if on vacation. But after a few minutes, Han felt Chi's breath on his ear as he spoke.
"It's time to wake up, Han."
Darkness once again, with voices filling the void as Han was able to recognize every one...
"You have made me so proud, my son..."
Mother
"Come say hello to your niece..."
Chi
"I love you guys..."
Huifang
"You're a pretty decent guy Han...I see why Su likes you so much..."
Wing
"I would be proud to have you as my brother..."
Wan
"That child of yours is going to be something special..."
Ox
"I Love You..."
Su
Han drew in a sharp gasp as air once again flowed into his lungs, his eyes snapping open at the same time. Clutching at his chest, Han could feel the singed fabric of his tunic, a clear reminder of what had just transpired between him and Jindiao.
Speaking of the evil dragon, Han could see that he and his forces had vacated the forest, a clear sign that they were returning to the Forbidden City.
Quickly reaching underneath his tunic, Han pulled out the red jade necklace, only to find to his astonishment, the stone had now become pure green jade. Putting the necklace back were it had been, Han quickly, although unsteadily at first, rose to feet, the aches and pains of his body reminding him of the conversation he had had with his late brother. Putting that to the back of his mind, Han began to race for the Forbidden City with only one thing on his mind.
"My Family...I am Coming."
Nan barely slept a wink. The fact that his general had not returned from his negotiations with Jindiao, combined with the fact that said dragon hadn't sent another attack weighed heavily on not only his nerves, but the nerves of everyone else. Finally, around the time that first light hit, everyone in the catacombs decided to risk it and get outside. Slowly, hordes of citizen's and warriors began to trickle out of the palace gates, many growing at the sudden change in light, bringing their hands up to shield their eyes.
Chang and Jade were assisting Hu and Wan in helping to move the wounded to the throne room of the palace. Elsewhere, Po, his students, and the remainder of the Five, along with Xiao, the Wu Sister's, Huifang, and Shi Long were helping to tend to the citizens as they moved out into the Palace courtyard. Unfortunately, any chance of rest was dashed as the sound of stone against stone filled their ears. Looking to the main gates of the courtyards, the wooden doors were blown open as columns of terra cotta warriors marched through, led by a very pleased Mu Lang.
Upon hearing the commotion outside, Po and his group quickly moved to the courtyard, their eyes widening in horror at what stood before them. Before long, the people were induced with more fear as Jindiao swooped down, hovering over them as he laughed maniacally. As this occurred, Su and her sisters, along with Chang and Huifang searched desperately find any sign of Han. Unfortunately, their search turned up empty.
"CITIZENS OF THE FORBIDDEN CITY!" Jindiao bellowed out, "SOLDIERS OF THE EIGHTH ROYAL REGIMENT!...GENERAL HANFANG...IS DEAD!" A collective gasp resounded in the courtyard, followed by a heartbroken scream.
"NOOO!" Huifang bellowed, tears of rage running down her cheeks as she charged for Jindiao, only to be held back by Su and Jade, the former of the two's cheeks now soaked with her own tears as she held the young doe close, her rage dissipating into pure sorrow.
"SILENCE!" Jindiao bellowed, before his eyes lit up at the sight of Jade and Huifang, a sadistic smile forming on his lips. "Oh my dear Jade Tusk and Huifang," he said in a mockingly sweet voice, "how I have missed you. But did you not hear me, Huifang...your uncle...is dead." The way he said this made it clear that Jindiao was speaking to Huifang as if he were speaking to a child, before yelling in a thunderous laugh, "DEEEEEAAAAAAAD!" Mu Lang began to laugh wickedly with her master as the demons possessing the terra cotta warrior made a thunderous noise, as if they were cheering.
"Now then," Jindiao continued after calming down from his revelry, "in celebration of this tremendous occasion, I have decided to invite those who would wish to join our ranks to step forward! Any who do not, will be destroyed!" For several long minutes, everyone stood silent. From where she stood beside Huifang, Jade looked around to see if anyone would dare join Jindiao. But, if Han was truly dead, it might be their only chance of survival. At this point, everyone, save for the wounded, were in the courtyard, seeing who would be the first to step forward. To everyone's surprise, it was Nan, his head held low, a musket grasped in his hand.
"Well," Jindiao laughed, "I was expecting better." This earned a chuckle form Mu Lang as they looked upon the young. "what is your name, my boy?" Jindiao inquired, never once loosing his smile.
"N-Nan Hai," Nan timidly said, never once raising his head. Nearby, Jun shed a single tear as she saw Nan reduced to such a state. Jindiao and Mu Lang merely laughed.
"Well Nan Hai," Jindiao said, "I am sure we can find a place for you in our..."
"I'd like to say something." Jindiao was taken aback as he was interrupted by this seemingly insignificant young buck, whose head was now raised high in defiance. From nearby, Xiongdi couldn't help but feel some respect for the buck he had pestered the night before. Nan's confidence, having found it's way into his voice, which now sounded much deeper, even caused a chill to run up Jun's spine as her eyes stared longingly at Nan.
"Well Nan," Jindiao said after recovering from his shock, a mocking smile on his face as he spoke, "I am sure we would all be very interested in what you have to say." After another few moments, Nan spoke.
"It doesn't matter that Han's gone."
"Nan," Chang warned, only to be cut off by Nan.
"Chang, people die everyday...friends...family. Yeah, we lost Han. But he's still with us…in here, in our hearts!" Nan emphasized this by patting his chest.
"So is Long, Xinshi, Haoxin, Croc…all of them. They didn't die in vain!" Nan's face then turned to one of shear determination and defiance as he glared at a laughing Jindiao and Mu Lang who seemed to be having the time of their lives.
"But you will! Cause you're wrong! Han's heart did beat for us! For all of us! IT"S NOT OVER!" With that, Nan raised up his musket to fire it a second later, the round going through the heads of five terra cotta warriors. Upon seeing this, a smile crept to Chang's face. Drawing his sword that he kept at his side, Chang gave a great yell.
"CHARGE!"
Within an instant, with a mighty cry, the remaining soldiers and guards charged toward the terra cotta warriors, and vice versa. In a matter of seconds, shots rang out as muskets were fired, clanging sounded as blades met, and yells and shattering were heard as clay and bodies were broken.
In the midst of the battle, Po and his friends, Huifang, Shi Long, and Jade worked hard to get the citizens back into the catacombs, which they were able to do with no casualties, but a few injuries. Unfortunately, Shi Long was so distracted by helping an elderly sheep couple that she failed to notice a terra cotta warrior come up behind. But, Huifang saw, and she realized she could do nothing.
"SHI LONG!" she yelled in terror. Upon hearing her name, Shi Long turned just in time to see the terra cotta warrior about to bring it's sword down on her. But, in the next instant, the warriors head was shattered as a shot rang out, the clay warriors body collapsing on the ground. Looking to the source of the shot, Shi Long's eyes widened as a smile quickly formed on her face. There, standing in the middle of the stairs leading to the palace, was Xiao with a musket aimed right where the terra cotta warrior just stood.
"Not my sister, you oversized planter," she growled before dropping the weapon. On instinct, Shi Long ran to the lynx, who met her halfway. In an instant, both girls threw their arms around each other, tears streaming down their cheeks as they shared their first true embrace as sisters.
"XIAO!" Jade called as she and Huifang ran toward the two, followed closely by Chang, "We need to make sure the citizens remain safe!"
"ON IT!" the young lynx replied, only to let out a startled scream as she quickly stepped out of the way of a downward blow from a terra cotta warriors sword, said warrior meeting it's end by Jade's hand. Unfortunately, more warriors continued to come. The soldiers and guards were holding their own for the time being, but unless they got help soon, they would be overwhelmed. Before long, the group took in the sound of hissing and growling, as well as the shattering of multiple warriors. Looking to the sound, the group couldn't help but smile as they saw the Wu Vortex taking out countless warriors.
"I honestly feel bad for those flower pots," Chang said, earning around of nods from the others. Unfortunately, their revelry was cut short as a section of the courtyard was blow apart. Looking to the source, their eyes widened at the sight of Jindiao sending down dragon fire as a means to quell their attack. One blast even caught the Wu sisters off guard, effectively separating them and knocking Wing unconscious. Realizing now that the enemy would have the advantage, Chang called to the men as he pointed toward large chunks of rubble.
"TAKE COVER MEN!"
Soon, the remaining guards and soldiers, as well as the Wu Sisters, began to fall back to the large pieces of stone. But as Chang began to do so, he and his group failed to notice that Jindiao had launched another shot at them. Looking up, Chang's eyes widened in horror as the ball of fire approached. On instinct, Chang threw his body over Jade to protect her from the blast. Only, the impact never came as the flaming round was severed in half. Confused, Chang rose from his position, waving away the smoke to take in a much welcome sight. Standing before him, his tunic and under tunic missing their right sleeves, his face covered in soot and scratches, was Han, a sword clasped in both hands as the blade smoked from diverting the blast.
"GENERAL!" Chang cried out with glee.
"CHANG GET BACK!" Han cried out, destroying a few warriors that came too close. Upon seeing this, Jindiao felt a deep rage burn within him. Looking up to the perturbed reptile, Han sent a mocking smile of his own.
"HEY JINDIAO! YOU KNOW HOW MAY TERRA COTTA WARRIORS I HAD TO SMASH TO GET HERE?! SERIOUSLY...I LOST COUNT!" This resulted in a round of hoots and hollers from his men, as well as the guards. Nearby, Su wept tears of joy as she saw that her lover was still alive, the same for Huifang as her uncle stood before her very eyes.
"KILL THEM ALL!" Jindiao bellowed as he swooped down toward Han. Fortunately for the buck, Han was fast enough to be able to duck out of the way and latch onto Jindiao when the dragon came close enough, the demented reptile soaring with his unwanted passenger into the sky, leaving the others behind as the battle resumed. Shouting to Po and the others, Chang made sure that they tended to the citizens, along with the Wu Sister's, Xiao, and the others, leaving Chang alone with Jade. But, they were not alone for long as Nan, a fresh gash in his head from one of Jindiao's explosions, bounded up to them.
"How you feeling Nan?" Chang asked the clearly exuberant buck.
"GREAT!" he exclaimed, " I feel like I can spit fire! Say, you haven't sen Jun have you?"
"Why?" Jade asked, clearly confused.
"I'm crazy about her!" he yelled as he made his way toward the palace, his voice rising the further away he got, "I figure it's about time I told her SINCE WE'LL PROBABLY BOTH BE DEAD BY NOON!" Upon hearing this, Chang and Jade looked at each other. Within an instant, the two were in each other's arms, their lips crashing against each other as they packed all the love they had for each other in this one kiss.
"Isn't that sweet," came a feral growl. Quickly pulling away from each other, Chang and Jade bared their teeth at Mu Lang, who was doing the same with two swords drawn, the blades level with her waist. Slowly bringing his own blade into a defensive position, Chang placed him self into a dueling stance as Jade drew two daggers, promptly doing the same.
"This is going to be fun," Mu Lang snarled before lunging at the two water deer.
Meanwhile, Han was trying his hardest to stay on Jindiao's back as the dragon tried every possible move he could to shake the buck. But, try as he might, he could not overcome Han's determination. Reaching under his tunic, Han grasped the jade green pendant on the necklace he wore, ripping it from his neck as he did so.
"Got news for you buddy," Han said as he brought his fist back, the stone clenched firmly in it, "you should have stayed in that urn."
But before Han could deliver the killing blow, he found himself thrown off balance as Jindiao made a sudden turn in mid air, causing Han to lose his grip on the stone, said gem plummeting until it landed in the courtyard bellow. Undeterred, Han drew his sword, quickly driving it into the back of Jindiao's neck, causing the dragon to roar in pain as blood leaked from his wound. As soon as the blade was deep enough, Han twisted the hilt to the right, prompting Jindiao to do the same. Before long, Han was literally steering the dragon he was on.
Back in the courtyard, Jade and Chang were trading savage blows with their opponent, who seemed to keep coming at them with feral rage, her swords swinging wildly as she tried desperately to land a hit on her adversaries. Chang actually managed to step back just in time as an expertly aimed swing from Mu Lang nearly took off his head. Jade took advantage of the opening by diving for Mu Lang's middle, only too be kicked away by said wolf who managed to block a downward strike from Chang. Out of the corner of her eye, Mu Lang saw Jade shakily rise to her feet. With a cruel smile, Mu Lang kicked Chang away before leaping behind Jade, placing the blade of one of her swords against the doe's neck.
"I gotta say Chang," she chuckled at the wide eyed buck, "you have some moves. Maybe after I kill your girlfriend, and Master Jindiao takes over the world, we can celebrate by fucking until we're sore." Chang's eyes widened even further in disgust. "And who knows," Mu Lang continued with a sick smile, "maybe I'll let your girlfriend live long enough to watch me ride you, making sure the last thing she hears is you screaming my name as you empty your balls."
"You have some sick fantasies Mu Lang," Chang sneered as he cautiously approached the demented wolf, who while she was taunting her opponent, failed to notice Jade subtly positioning her body in order to free herself.
"Maybe," she said with shrug, "but in the end you must realize, that you and your girlfriend, are not the better warriors." Looking to Jade, Chang flashed a confused look as she winked at a him, a grin forming on her face. Soon, Chang's confusion cleared up as he saw that Jade still had one of her daggers in her hand.
"You're right, Mu Lang..." Chang said with a mock expression of defeat, resulting in a smug smirk from Mu Lang. Unfortunately for the she-wolf, the smirk quickly vanished as Jade threw her head back into the wolf's muzzle, shocking the canine who was now sporting a bloody nose as Jade freed herself by flipping over the stunned wolf. However, Mu Lang's nose was the least of her problems.
In an instant, Jade thrust the blade of her dagger into Mu Lang's back, the wolf's eyes going wide in shock at the sudden feeling of pain. At that point, Chang calmly approached Mu Lang, placing a hand of her shoulder to steady her frame as he brought the tip of his sword up to her throat, murderous intent in his eyes.
"...our friends were better warriors." As soon as he said that, Chang thrust his sword forward, the air around him quickly filled with the sound of a wide eyed Mu Lang choking on her own blood. After a few moments, the sound stopped as the demented wolf's eyes rolled into the back of her head. Pulling their respective blades out of the wolf, Chang and Jade let her body fall to the ground in a growing pool of her own blood. Looking at the defeated wolf for a moment, the two water deer looked to each other before finding themselves in a tight embrace. Unfortunately, the tender moment was once again cut off as the pair heard the sound of an agonizing scream raining down from above.
Bracing himself for impact, Han felt himself flung from Jindiao's back as they crashed into the courtyard. Greatly disoriented, Han quickly steadied himself as he looked around the courtyard for the jade stone, eventually finding it, with some difficulty, in the middle of the large space. Rushing to the stone, Han soon found himself dodging terra cotta warriors and fire blasts from a fully recovered Jindiao.
But once Han was within thirty feet a Jindiao, he gave a great leap toward the dragon, his hand once again curled into a fist around the stone. With as much force as he could muster, Han threw a great punch into Jindiao's chest, his fist actually managing to penetrate the skin. It was at that moment, that Jindiao realized he felt no pain. But what he did feel was a numbing feeling. Looking down to Han, Jindiao, along with Han, Jade and Chang, could see green light imitating from his wound.
Before long, all the color from Jindiao's body began to vanish as his whole form started to turn into ash, much like it had during his defeat at the panda village nearly a year earlier. Only this time, he would not be coming back. Leaning his head back, Jindiao let out a long gasp as he body finally faded into oblivion. As the last of Jindiao's remains floated away, Han was left holding a shimmering jade stone in his hand. Soon, the light faded, and Han, after staring at the stone for a few moments, before dropping on the ground and shattering it under his foot. When that happened, the terra cotta warriors began falling were they stood. Without their master and is power, their was nothing keeping the demonic forces in the land of the living.
Looking to Chang and Jade, Han slowly limped toward them, a small smile on his face as he did. The smile was soon returned by the captain and his girlfriend. Soon, the three found themselves laughing as they pulled each other into a tight embrace, an embrace they held for a few minutes before deciding to wander into the throne room.
Upon arriving in the now crowded room, the trio couldn't help but smile at the sight they beheld; people, warriors and citizens alike, were laughing, talking, even sleeping. Slowly, the three water deer made their way through the crowd, taking in some pleasant sites along the way.
Off to the side, they saw Xiongdi joking with Nan, the latter with Jun sitting on his lap, the two sharing a tender kiss every once in a while.
Further along, they saw, Shifu and the rest of the five regaling a group of children about their past deeds.
Past them sat Po with his arm placed lovingly around Tigress, the latter being bombarded with questions from Nu Hai as Jing and Bao laughed at the tiger's "misery."
Further ahead, Jade could see Tou Lu chatting with her old clan sisters. Running to the doe, Jade and Tou Lu greeted each other with a hug and a laugh.
Han was pleasantly surprised to see Xiao and Shi long sitting together, the pair smiling and laughing as they talked, their hands in each other's grasp.
Looking to his left, Han smiled as he saw Hu and Wan sitting beside each other, the feline with her head on the buck's shoulder, neither of them saying a word. Just enjoying each other's company, along with Wing, who had actually fallen asleep with her head on her sister's lap.
It was at that moment that Han noticed Huifang and Su approaching him and Chang. As soon as Huifang reached, him, Han enveloped her in a tight embrace.
"Sweet Hui," he softly chuckled, before turning to Su, leaving Huifang to give a hug to Chang. As Han looked back to Su, the two lovers just stared into each other's eyes before Han wrapped is arms around Su in a tight embrace, the feline moaning softly at the feeling of being in her lover's arms.
"Xiao told me that the remainder of the Dzungars will not be attempting another attack," Jade said, "and General Song and his men will be hear in a week to help clean up., " Chang reported as he, Han, Su and Jade sat on the front steps of the palace, enjoying the now sunny day, the silence now a nice change of pace from all the chaos that had transpired.
For a while, the group just sat in silence. Han actually had his head resting back on Su's chest as said feline twiddled with his mane. Jade and Chang merely sat side by side, holding hands as lovers do. The silence lasted until Han finally spoke up.
"I'm ready to go home," he said in just barely a whisper, "I've come to realize I'm old and tired." Chang, upon hearing this, let out a hum of agreement.
"Me too...not about the old part." Han actually allowed a smile to form on his lips.
"Yeah, my brother told me you would be." Chang and the two female's looked at Han with wide eyes, only to relax a moment later at what he meant.
"You saw Chi in the Spirit Realm?" Su inquired, raking her fingers through Han's mane. Han simply hummed in response.
"Was he everything you remembered?" Han thought about for a moment before responding.
"And more." Han then reached up one of his hands, which Su gladly took in one of hers.
"The war is over my love," Han said, bringing the top of her hand to his lips, gently pecking it before he continued to speak.
"Now it will just be us...and our child."
The celebration lasted into the night.
But, the following morning, everyone was very somber.
Throughout the day, bodies were moved from the streets and the catacombs.
At least the ones they could find.
The rubble was cleared away from the Army Headquarters Courtyard. From there, hundreds of graves were formed, the fallen warriors laid to rest in what would become a garden of remembrance, one that could be visited by soldiers and citizens alike.
Haoxin was buried alongside her fallen sisters.
Monkey and Mantis were buried together as a testament to their friendship.
Croc was buried beside Ox, as the others felt it fitting to let these two comrades find eternal peace together.
And at the forefront of it all, a helmet, perched upon a sword, the tip being embedded in the ground, it's surface decorated with orange, white, and black stripes as a memorial to Long Chi, and his comrades who fell at Wu Fortress.
A pair of wings even adorned the helmet as a tribute to Xinshi.
No tears were shed, as they had been shed enough two nights prior.
Instead, there were only smiles, for the living knew that these sacrifices were not made in vain.
Looking to Su, Han smiled as he was to make sure of it.
