A/N: Welcome! If you're a regular reader of mine, welcome back. You look wonderful as always. If you're new, allow me to introduce myself. My name is JD The God of Salt, or Salty if you prefer.
This is the first chapter of my new project, taking place in the Dead or Alive fandom. If you've been reading my work on FF for at least a year and a half, you'd know that I already have a DOA story on here. It's called 'Stories of the Tipsy Cherry Blossom.' I DC'ed it last year due to personal burnout and wanted to write a legitimate story in the DOA Fandom. Stories was a series of connected one-shots with lemons in nearly every chapter. I made those when I was barely past my first year as a FF Author. Those stories and the verses they took place in are tainted to me now. So before I even pitched this new story to my editor, I wanted to make sure that it was washed off. Now that it is, I feel comfortable with beginning this story.
There are a couple of things that you should know before we begin. There's a story of mine you should read before starting this one. It's called Yao Guai's Journey, a story in the SF Fandom. I strongly advise you to read that story in its entirety since this tale picks up essentially where that one ended. This leads to my second point. King Xiaoyu will not be starring in this story as he's been officially retired. The protagonist of this story will be the protagonist of Yao Guai's Journey, Wuming Yao. This is why you should go read that story, and it's only nineteen chapters. Seventeen if you choose to ignore the Bonus Chapters. It's already complete, so you don't have to wait for me to update it. Third, this is a small collaboration between myself and Editor-san, or alwaysdoubted as you may know from stories such as 'Fractured Trust' or 'Rekindled Hope.' We've been partners for two and a half years as of 2022, and he's the reason why my recent works look better than they did in 2018. I say that because I'm going to be doing most of the writing, as far as I know. He may dip his fingers once in a while, but most of this will be done by yours truly. He's going to edit the work as usual, hence why I started calling him Editor-san - a term of endearment. We've been working long enough to where he would tell me to knock it off if it didn't suit him. He's also involved with the story, but I won't say how exactly.
Finally, Yao is an SF OC, but that doesn't mean other SF characters will be important. This is NOT an SFxDOA crossover. It will be no more than a cameo if an SF character shows themselves, has dialogue, or anything in between. Yao and perhaps one more OC of mine from the SF fandom will be the only SF cast members.
With all that said and done, let's begin this new tale.
Two years can be a lot of time for some people.
For some, it could be as quick as a finger snap. It's all subjective, depending on the person and the transpiring events during that time. For Wuming Yao, Aberdeen's Unsung Hero, two years might as well be an entire lifetime. He's convinced that Oro isn't the King of Naraka but might be his right-hand man. Yao was finally finished after all of the training, running exercises until vomiting, passing out, or both. Routinely, Yao's now near limitless pool of adrenaline went dry, buckling as he fell to the cave floor while breathing deeply. Kali, the Black Cat, walked next to him with a water bottle in her mouth.
Yao graciously accepted the gesture. "Thank you for the umpteenth time, Kali."
She meowed in response before walking off. The Hong Kong native chugged the bottle in a matter of seconds, his breathing finally regulated.
"Well, Mago. You finished everything I had for you. In record time, no less."
"I think surviving is the better definition for what I did. I'm pretty sure I almost died a few times."
Oro chuckled at the remark. "Most certainly. Still, you fought against the grain and can now reap the rewards. The first thing that should be done is bestow the title upon you."
"Are you going to give me the title?"
"Well, I'm the only living Sennin, so I have to. Stand, Mago."
Yao complied and stood up.
"I, Sennin, Oro have bared witness to your prodigal progress in mastering what the Senjutsu Scrolls have taught you. You nearly killed yourself in the proper condition, and the only thing left for me to do is bestow you the reward for your hard work. I now dub you, Wuming Yao the Sennin of Unpredictability!"
Wuming Yao, The Sage (Sennin) of Unpredictability
Nationality: Chinese (Born and raised in Hong Kong)
Occupation: Medicine Store Owner (Sennin)
Birthday: February 12, Age 23
Height/Weight: 6' 2 145 lbs
Body Measurements: "What in Naraka do you need my Measurements for?"
Blood Type: AB
Martial Art: Quan Fa (Senjutsu)
Theme: Circles by Brent Faiyaz, Statues (Virtua Fighter 5 Final Showdown Version), or Zenith by CJ Bolland
"Thank you, Oro."
"How do you feel?" Oro inquired as he poured two glasses of Sake and handed Yao one as they both sat.
"Relieved. If I had to do another day of that intense training, I would've had a heart attack."
"My apologies. There were times I thought I was too hard on you. However, your perseverance eliminated those thoughts." They both took their shot of Sake. "So, what lies ahead now that your training is finished? Will you head back to Hong Kong and tell your family the good news?"
"Not yet. There's someone I need to see here before I head home."
"Then I won't keep you. It was an honor to see you improve these past few years." Oro bowed at the young man, Yao doing the same.
"Oh! Before I forget. I have something for you. Wait here." Oro then dashed off.
Kali meowed in a higher pitch at Yao in what seemed like a 'congratulations' as she maneuvered through his legs. Oro then came back with an assortment of large rings.
"What are these?"
"As a Sennin, you need to find a way to restrain yourself. We didn't train on that aspect, and I don't think you want to spend an extra few months to gain that skill. So I made these for you called Limiter Rings. Place them on your wrists and ankles to restrain your physical strength and speed, respectively," Oro explained.
"Do they diminish all the gains I made since I've been here?"
"Heavens, no. If I had to guess, you're at least ten times stronger than when we first started. You'll be about twice as strong with the rings on. Removing the ankle limiters will give an extra boost in strength along with giving your full speed back. The wrist limiters give you four times the strength. Put them on."
Yao sat down and put them on, starting with the ankle limiters. They immediately began weighing him down. Then came the wrist limiters; Yao noticed the gloves on his hands with the rings themselves. They were black with gold kanji written on the outer edge, while the gloves were white as his socks. The rings blended well with the rest of his outfit. His black exercise had the Mandarin Character of his family name, Nameless (无名), etched boldly on the back with a similar colored sash around his waist to keep his solid blue pants. Yao used to wrap it once around his waist one time for his pants to tighten. Now, he had to wrap it three times for the same effect. After losing twenty pounds of fat, starting from the second year spent in Brazil, it made sense to increase his flexibility due to being too muscular. He then regained half that weight in muscle, so his measurements were lowered.
His originally dyed bright brown hair was also no more. When Yao landed in Brazil and settled in the cave, he washed the dye off, leaving him naturally dark brown hair. Even then, there was still a slight moderation to it. One of his bangs held a solid strand of gray due to the physical stress he put his body through. Yao also taught himself how to sew since his clothes would get destroyed in the training process. After remaking the jacket his ex Fu gave him, Oro advised him to make the arm-sleeves larger than usual. Yao didn't know why at the time, but the limiter rings made everything make sense. People would certainly look at him funny if they saw the large rings on his wrists AND ankles. The new jacket hid his wrists and part of his hands, so only some were visible. The jacket also was black and gold and with the family name on the back. It was originally his mother's suggestion, saying now that he could represent the family name.
"Wow. You look great, Mago. Now that you're a Sennin, I must ask a favor."
"What is it?"
"The Ki Control scroll you have in Aberdeen. Make sure you protect it with your life and only entrust it to those you trust with your very soul."
"I think that goes without saying, Oro."
The Hermit showed a toothy smile. "Then I have nothing else for you. Best of luck in your future endeavors, Mago."
Yao went for a handshake, but both silently agreed to a hug with light pats on the other's back in the act of friendship and respect.
"Thank you for everything, Oro. Keep in touch," Yao said as he grabbed his bag.
Kali meowed at him before jumping on his shoulder.
"Kali, you can't come with me. I'm leaving Brazil."
"Oh, don't be so harsh, Mago. Take Kali with you."
Yao only nodded at the additional request. "Alright. Take care, Old-Timer."
With that, Yao and his new pet kitten left the Sennin's Cave. It didn't take long for the pair to arrive in Rio due to Yao's mastery of his Flash Step and increased physical stamina. The new Sennin made his way to the Matsuda's residence and approached the front door before ringing the doorbell. It was late, though the sun was still up, only beginning to set. He wondered if his person of interest even still lived here. It's been two years since their last conversation. Who answered the door was not who Yao came to see, yet was still a friendly face.
"Fabio. Good to see you."
"Yao! What's going on? It's been what, two and a half years since we last spoke?"
"Nothing much. I just came from the Amazon jungle. Is Laura home?"
"Oh, no. She moved into her own apartment a few blocks from here up the road. Number 313 if I recall correctly."
"Alright. Thanks, Fabio. Tell Grandmaster Matsuda that I said hello."
"Will do. Better yet, here. Take my contact information."
Fabio quickly scribbled his number on paper and handed it to Yao.
"See you later, Fabio."
"Same, Yao."
Yao turned and made his way to the streets. After asking a couple of strangers about any apartments nearby, they pointed him to the only apartment complex in the neighborhood. Climbing two stair flights brought Yao to the third floor where Laura supposedly was, as he let Kali off of his shoulders.
"Go walk around for a bit Kali, I'll be a minute."
Kali meowed in acceptance before walking off. Yao then searched for 313 and knocked on the door when he found it. Nothing at first until he heard water running from inside. She must be washing dishes or taking a shower. Yao waited patiently before the door unlocked.
"Hi, can I help yo-" Laura Matsuda started until she laid eyes on her visitor, eyes widening with a shocked expression. "Yao?"
He smiled in return, lust evident in his gaze. "Hello, Laura."
No words were spoken for nearly thirty seconds. Then, in one swift motion, the pair were all over one another with a deep kiss as Laura pulled him inside her apartment, Yao closing the door behind him with his foot. Two years of sexual tension had built up from their last meeting, and it finally overflowed. Laura's hands roamed all over Yao's torso as she removed his coat while hungrily kissing him with sensual tongue action. She maneuvered to allow Yao to lift her in his arms as their sexual chemistry finally revealed. After all the flirting and teasing, the opportunity to let the malice out was euphoric.
Yao reluctantly separated from those heavenly lips. "Where is-"
"Door behind the couch," Laura cut him off before coming back for another round of the two tongue tango.
Lustful moans and groans couldn't be restrained in the slightest as each voiced their pleasure. Following her directions, Yao arrived in the main bedroom and carefully laid his partner on the mattress, never separating from the embrace or kiss. Yao quickly shed his Limiter Rings but didn't get to his shirt, Laura's impatience shown by hastily discarding his top. The mountain of muscle hiding underneath was what Laura had fantasized and masturbated to countless times. The pair embraced with the brunette bombshell beneath Yao. He quickly removed her incredibly tight top, revealing a gorgeous bust that complimented her flawless figure.
"Shit... I've been waiting for this since that day in the market." Laura gasped loudly as Yao began assaulting her neck and breasts with wet kisses. "Is th- this really happening?"
"Yes, it is."
The pair stared longingly, lost in one another's eyes, before sharing another passionate kiss.
"And I want to see that ass shake," Yao said his perverted thoughts aloud.
Laura's smirk turned malicious. A final kiss and lick against his cheek preceded Laura lying on all fours with her thong-covered ass spread. "Tonight and tomorrow, make these cheeks clap for however long you want. Give it to me, Yao."
Four hours later:
Yao and Laura were sitting up in each other's arms while under the comforter. Yao drew soft circles around Laura's lower spine as she had her head against his chest. After their steamy session, the pair was still up as sleep was hard to come by after the bed foundation broke at the beginning of the fourth hour.
"That was very therapeutic. Thank you, Laura."
"Training in the Amazon was that hellish?"
"An understatement."
"So, you're headin' back to Hong Kong tomorrow?"
"First flight out. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone back home. Ren, Uncle, Jian."
"They're gonna be happy to see you, just as I was," Laura spoke as a comfortable silence crept into the room. "Why did you come here, Yao? You could've just gone to Hong Kong and left me waiting."
"I was never the type to make a promise and not keep it."
"Even an old one?"
"I wouldn't call a two-year promise old."
"Promises age a lot faster than we do."
"Maybe, but still. After all the flirting and teasing, I needed to put your money where your mouth was."
"And?"
"You were fantastic. Better than Juri, that's for sure." (AD: That's a bold statement. But I could see why as Laura was apologetic and sincere during their reunion)
"Really? What about Chun-Li?"
"Sorry."
"I expected that answer. Don't even know why I asked."
"Am I going to sleep on the couch now?"
Laura's response was to playfully punch his stomach, Yao feigning pain.
"At least I'll have you until tomorrow. I've wanted this for a long time, and I'm glad we finally did. Even though we might never do it again."
Laura yawned as the pair glanced at her digital clock - one in the morning. Fatigue finally caught up to them.
"Sorry about your bed foundation," Yao stated while laughing lightly.
"It's fine since it's like sleeping on a soft Tatami. I didn't want the foundation anyway." Laura kept feeling herself drifting away.
"Laura, go to sleep if you're tired."
"Not until you... fall asleep first."
"Why?"
"Cause... I want to wake up... with you still holding me..."
Those were Laura's final words before passing out. Yao smiled down at her before rubbing her cheek, a tired yawn escaping him.
"Sweet dreams, Laura."
Settling in bed, Yao got comfortable before sleep overtook him. Before losing consciousness, he swore Laura's grip over his shoulders tightened slightly as she snuggled closer, a content smile replacing her once blank expression.
Next Morning:
Yao awoke to find Laura still asleep. He looked at the clock as it read eight-thirty am. He needed to get to the airport for the next flight out to Kowloon. Slowly getting out of bed to not disturb Laura, Yao started getting dressed. While wrapping the sash around his pants, a pair of silken lips kissed his back.
"Good morning," Laura greeted him, albeit sleepily.
"Morning. Thanks again for last night."
Yao turned to Laura, using her bedsheets for modesty. The pair shared a quick peck before he put his top back on.
"Need a ride to the airport?"
"You'd do that for me?"
"I have nothing going on today, and I owe you for a wonderful night. Lemme get dressed. A moment, please," Laura said as she gently ushered him out with a cheeky smile. "Unless you want to go another round."
Yao couldn't help but chuckle as he stepped out. "Tempting as that sounds, I do need to get going."
After stepping into the hall, Yao found Kali sitting on the kitchen ledge, knowing she slept outside the door. It didn't take long for Laura to get ready as she stepped out dressed in a fitting jersey and jeans with black Boots.
They drove to the airport, the ride quiet for most of the way other than some small talk. Both knew this was it, though neither wanted it to end so suddenly. Yet, it was best for both parties. They arrived at the terminal, Laura making sure to go with Yao. Luckily, he didn't have much luggage with him. Only a few things in his bag, along with Kali.
"I'll miss you," Laura said, tears brimming in her eyes. "Are you sure I can't change your mind?"
Yao caressed her cheek softly before planting a kiss there to remove the tears. "It's for the best, Laura. But know this. I'm grateful we were able to repair things between us. I genuinely mean that. And I'll miss you too."
He dug into his pocket and took out a folded piece of paper to hand to her. "Take care, ok?"
The waterworks erupted for Laura as she gave Yao one final kiss that she refused to let go of. Yao returned her affection by wrapping both arms around her slim waist. The kiss lasted for nearly an eternity before the intercom announced the first passengers were permitted to board.
Reluctantly, Yao moved away. "This isn't goodbye, Laura. See you later."
With that, Yao grabbed his bag and left for airport security, feeling Laura's eyes on him the entire time. Curious about what he left her, Laura unfurled the note and read what was inside.
'To the woman who mended my heart when I needed it most. No one before or after will leave this indelible mark as you did. You're special, Laura. Don't ever forget that, nor let any man tell you otherwise.'
Yao.
Below his name was a cell phone number and address should she ever want to visit again. Pleased beyond words, Laura's smile grew as she clutched the note close to her chest before leaving out to her car. Yao may have only been a one night stand, but he set a standard each man after him should meet. And Laura was grateful for that.
Yao and Kali boarded the plane but almost had a war of words with one of the attendants who requested Kali to go beneath the aircraft. Needless to say, the kitten never sounded nastier. The crew eventually caved and let Kali on the plane, so long as Yao kept her in line. It would be a long flight back to Kowloon and another hour back to Aberdeen by car. He'd have to settle for a cab to surprise his family.
But then...
"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. This is your pilot speaking. Due to severe weather in Kowloon, we'll be forced to redirect the flight to Shanghai, China. Get ready for takeoff," the pilot voiced on the intercom.
Every passenger voiced their disapproval or anger in some cases. Yao simply stroked the head of his cat even if he was also disappointed.
Shanghai. He hasn't been there in years. Yet it was during that instance when he got either an insane or phenomenal idea. Oro said that his ability to recognize and counter every form of Wushu wasn't a skill but a power from reading the Senjutsu Scrolls.
"Hmm, maybe I should put Oro's theory to the test. What do you think, Kali?"
The black kitten meowed in approval of this admittedly heinous idea. Yao's mind was set. He'd walk to Shenzhen while challenging every Chinese Martial Artist he could find on the way. When Yao reached his destination, he would then take a cab to Hong Kong and ferry to Aberdeen. A smirk failed to be hidden from his face after cementing his plan.
"I guess I picked a good time to start using my family name. When we land in Shanghai, we're going to tear the Wushu World apart, Kali," Yao said to his pet.
The plane was in flight for nearly 24 hours, landing at 9:50 the following day. And when Yao got past the customs? He sought out on the warpath.
Putting his plan and Oro's theory to the test, Yao caught a cab to the city and bought a compass, using it to travel south toward Shenzhen. It would take longer to get to Hong Kong this way, but he needed to entertain himself while putting what he learned in Brazil to work. A late modification to the plan had Yao catch a cab to the next major city once he reached the outskirts of the nearest city. Being a Sennin allowed him to tell who practiced Wushu seriously, thus prompting him to ask for a friendly duel. Soon enough, stories about the Nameless Quan Fa practitioner spread across the entire country. Yao's new appearance allowed him to do this without people recognizing that he made the podium in the World Warrior Tournament. The only thing people had to go off was the Family Name he proudly wore on the back of his jacket since he never took it off during his bouts. The matches ended with little to no blows against him, let alone cleanly. Wushu, Long Fist, and its derivatives were being shut down left and right. Xing Yi, Wing Chun, Ba Ji Quan, Pigua Quan, most of the Animal Styles (especially Mantis and Crane) were tossed aside with minimal difficulty. He didn't invade any schools as that would be immoral and illegal. Only dueling in the streets.
Yao was already in Shenzhen in a week as he and Kali traversed through the city. People either paid him no mind or moved out of his way if they knew who he was. Before flagging down a cab to get to District 3, Yao saw a few adults bullying some kids and getting violent with them. Obviously angered, he called out to them.
"Hey!"
The men turned and saw the Sennin, quickly putting two and two together. "Oh, shit! It's the Nameless Quan Fa Warrior!"
"You can't bully people your age and decide to pick on some kids? What did they ever do to you?"
The three bullies hardened themselves. One of them even pulled out a switchblade. Yao didn't want to waste time. He had to get to District 3 shortly. Otherwise, he'd have to stay the night in Shenzhen. But these boys couldn't get away unscathed. Sighing defeatedly, Yao dropped his bag and cracked every knuckle before steeling his expression.
He Flash Stepped and landed a vicious palm on the centermost thug, sending him flying into a brick wall. The man with the switchblade swiped wildly, but Yao effortlessly dodged each one before kneeing the poor soul in the mouth. The blow caved his face and possibly broke a few teeth as the last man looked fearful and ran away instead of attacking. Yao scratched his hair but shrugged before turning to the kids. He kneeled so that they were leveled.
"You kids ok?"
The children nodded, which caused Yao to smile warmly.
"You're the Nameless Guy, right?" The girl asked.
Yao laughed genuinely. "That's me, young lady." He ruffled the girl's hair. "It's getting late. You should all head home, ok?"
"Ok! Thank you, Mr. Nameless!" The children all said as they ran out of the alley.
Yao picked up his bag, taking a quick look at his surroundings and seeing the two men writhing in pain. "C'mon, Kali. We gotta get a cab to take us to District 3 fast."
Kali meowed in agreement as she jumped on his shoulder. A few minutes after Yao left the general area, a young woman walked down the street. She heard a conversation between the same kids that Yao saved.
"Whoa, I can't believe we ran into Mr. Nameless!"
"He was fast! He was in Bo's face in seconds! Like he teleported!"
"He knocked them out in one blow each! It was so cool! I think I might ask Mama and Papa to let me learn Wushu."
The woman was awestruck. The Nameless Quan Fa Warrior was in Shenzhen? She had to find and challenge him since she heard the stories of a man in Black and Gold utterly destroying every Martial Artist in China he fought. Running down the street, she eventually found the alley where the unknown warrior dismantled the bullies, who were still on the ground in pain.
She ran up to them and started her interrogation. "Hey! Where did the Quan Fa Warrior go?"
The one known as Bo spoke. "He... muttered something about... District 3." That was all he got out before passing out from the pain.
District 3? That's in Hong Kong! But at this time, he had to either be on the way or there already.
She stomped her foot in disappointment before pouting. "Man, I wanted to challenge him."
"He was so fast," the other thug commented. "Bo couldn't defend himself, and the Nameless Warrior palmed him so hard, he crashed into that wall. If his stories were true, he even fought a Shaolin Monk and bested him. You wouldn't stand a chance, girl."
The woman walked up to the battered thug and harshly stomped on his stomach to knock him out.
"It's Lei Fang to you, loser."
She walked out of the alleyway, content with the bit of info she received. Well, at least the man didn't face him since there were no stories of the Nameless Quan Fa Warrior battling any Jeet Kune Do practitioners. If she had to guess, he's probably even angrier than she was. And the mere prospect lightened her mood.
Yao was back in Aberdeen in two days.
Finally, Yao was home after nearly a week and a half of traveling. He stayed the night in District 3 before catching a ferry to Kowloon and had to stay there too. The following day, he finally arrived at his neighborhood. While viewing his surroundings, he had realized that nothing changed much, just as his stomach growled. Unsurprising as he hasn't had anything to eat since dawn. And it was around lunchtime. Knowing exactly where to go, Yao made his way down a few blocks before arriving at a nearby restaurant. Letting Kali walk around, he went inside. The decorum hadn't changed at all. But why fix what isn't broken? Noticing a bell at the hostess podium, he tapped it.
*DING*
Turning around offered Yao to take in the place's design. Has it really been two years since he was last here? Time might have flown to the business owner, but it felt like a decade to Yao. He turned back to the desk as the hostess held a stack of papers up to her face, her orange robes giving away her identity. Yao couldn't hide his smile any longer.
"Sorry for being late. I'm teaching some of my chefs some new dishes who were taking too long." Her annoyance couldn't be any clearer. "Table for one?"
"Yes, Ren. Table for one."
Despite having the papers up to her face, the woman motioned like she was confused. "How do you know my name?"
She pulled the papers down, and her expression brightened to the point of blindness. "Yao, sweetie! You're back in Aberdeen!"
Ren gave her nephew-in-law a deep hug and a motherly kiss on the cheek. Yao returned the hug, happy to see his Step-Aunt again.
"It's so good to see you! You must be starving. Come, let me get you settled!"
"Please, Ren. I haven't eaten breakfast."
"You shouldn't have said that. I spoil you enough, so don't make it worse for yourself." She sat him down. "I'll start cooking your food, sweetie. Make yourself comfortable. I'll be back with some Tea and Water."
Ren walked into the kitchen. In the distance, Yao could hear her yelling at her employees. "SOMEONE GET SOME TEA AND WATER TO TABLE 4!"
All of her students complied with abject horror.
Soon, Yao's food was served as he wolfed it down like an extended fast. His jacket was off, showing his albeit more muscular form though still skinnier than when he left. And now the rings on his wrists and legs?
Ren's curiosity got the better of her. "Yao."
*GULP* "Yes, Ren?"
"...Did Oro adequately feed you in Brazil?"
"Define adequately," Yao answered.
Ren's face. Gold.
Yao lightly laughed at his joke. "I'm joking, Ren. I was properly fed down there. For the first year."
"What do you mean by that?"
"One of the things I trained was my flexibility. Before properly working on it, I had to lose weight because I was too bulky. Along with the physical conditioning, I fasted three days a week. By the time I was given the rank of Sennin, I had lost twenty pounds of fat and regained half of it in muscle. That's why I look anorexic compared to before," Yao explained as he continued eating. "Where's Fu?"
"She and Fei Long are out with his crew. You know how that goes. At least the training you underwent bore fruit. My nephew-in-law is a Sennin. Never thought I'd say that. The Wuming Family Reunion is going to be interesting this year, that's for sure," Ren jested with a light laugh. "Does Guai know you're here?"
"Not yet."
"Well, go see him, sweetie!" Ren told him before a look of thought came over her as she scanned Yao's figure. "Maybe after a couple of more dishes."
"Ren..."
"You need to eat. It may have been two years, Yao, but I remember how ravenous your appetite was. I can only imagine it worsened since you've been fasting for the past year."
After eating more of what Ren served, Yao was finally on his way. Kali found her new master and meowed before jumping on his shoulder once again. He opened the door and heard a chime sound. Looking up at the door, he noticed a bell on top. Must be a new addition.
"Welcome, what can I-" The man behind the display table turned around to greet his potential patron, only to stop when he saw his guest.
"uncle. It's been a while," Yao greeted his uncle, Xiao Guai.
"It has, nephew. You look well."
The duo who raised nine levels of Naraka on the other Martial Artists (save for Ren) of Aberdeen shared a sincere and long overdue hug. "Come, let's talk over some tea."
"I'll pass on the tea, but I welcome the conversation. Ren just fed me."
"Ah, I see."
As the pair caught up due to being apart for two years, Yao explained everything from his stay in Brazil. In turn, Guai told him of everything that happened when he left.
"So, Jian got her memories back? That's amazing news! And she's in Beijing training to be a Gymnast. Shame I wasn't here to see her off."
"You were taking an opportunity that is clearly once in a lifetime. Don't feel so bad."
"You're right, uncle. But now that I'm back, I can rerun the store."
"Nephew, you spent two years nearly killing yourself in Brazil and want to run the store after flying for who knows how long from there to here?"
"I actually landed in Shanghai because of a flight misdirection, then hitchhiked all the way to Shenzhen. All the while battling Martial Artists. It took two days for the country to make stories about me. Apparently, I'm the Nameless Quan Fa Warrior in China. While in Shenzhen, I saved some kids from bullies who were my age, and one of them called me the Nameless Guy," the Sennin laughed.
"And you're not tired?"
"No. Running the store is my responsibility. Even though you granted me permission to go to Brazil and participate in the World Warrior Tournament, you shouldn't be running the store."
"I understand that, nephew. But you need to rest. You just got back."
"Uncle, don't you want to enjoy retirement? You're a formerly deaf man who married the woman who cured your deafness. If anyone needs to relax, it's you."
Guai sighed. "If you insist, Yao. But I don't know. Shouldn't you be doing more important things than running a store now that you're a Sennin?"
"Me being a Sennin has nothing to do with a familial obligation. If it's a tradition in the family, I should follow it," Yao argued.
While agreeing at first, Guai couldn't let his family's traditions stunt his nephew, no, his surrogate son's growth. "I can't let you do that, Yao. I know the family's traditions and respect your willingness to follow them despite being gone. But if you are offered to train with one of the most powerful people on the planet, accept and become his peer, you should be more involved in correcting the world's problems. How about this?" Guai started. "I'll let you run the store as we agreed. However, if you have to or even want to go somewhere, I'll run the store in your absence. And I know you want to go to Beijing to visit Jianyu and Xiayu."
He wasn't wrong there. Despite not seeing them in two years, Yao really endeared both of his little adopted sisters. Now, with the one he traveled the world with having her memories back, he has to go see her at some point.
"You drive a hard bargain, uncle. Alright, we have a deal." The duo shook on it. "Go enjoy your retirement, uncle. I have a store to run," Yao said with finality as he went downstairs.
"Fair enough, nephew. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call," Guai said as he left the store.
Yao checked the clock. It was time for the mailman to come to this neighborhood block. He went outside, and right on cue, the mailman came by the store building. "Yao? You're back in Aberdeen?"
"Yeah, I actually just got back a couple of hours ago."
"Oh. Well, I'll see you later. I have a bunch of mail for you that's back at the post office. Here's Guai Sifu's mail." The mailman tossed his uncle's mail and the newspaper, Yao catching them easily.
"Thanks."
After taking the mail upstairs, Yao went to his room. He quickly surveyed the room and realized that it was spotless.
"I don't remember my room being this clean when I left two years ago."
Brushing the thought aside, Yao grabbed his bell and sign before heading back downstairs. Though the door had a bell up top, old habits die hard. And this one had earned him some infamy among his uncle's customers. The store was dead for most of the day, and the only customers to show were the establishment's regulars on their daily routine. Guai simply had the patience to wait. His nephew, while having a well of it, wasn't as patient as his uncle. So while he waited for his uncle's regulars and his own from what his uncle told him, he only bought medicine when Yao ran the store.
The sign simply said: 'Ring for Service.'
And the potential customer would ring the bell next to the sign as Yao read the newspaper while he waited. It pissed off Guai's regulars since they thought he wasn't taking his job seriously. Yet, they backed off after learning he was just as knowledgeable as his predecessor. Besides, by the time they came, Yao could've taken a nap in-between visits and still wake up in time for the next regular to arrive. Although it was a double-edged sword since Martial Artists from the School District would also ring the bell. Instead of buying something, they picked fights with him. Yao would win and tell them to get lost, thus increasing the store's publicity. That earned him his regulars from new residents of the Harbor City, Ren's fellow students, and her customers since she spends time being a barker for the Store. Barring the students who pick fights with him, the strategy was genius.
Yao was about to start reading the paper. Until...
*DING*
The bell had never failed, he swore. Yao kept the paper high, only lowering it entirely if it wasn't from the School District. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a man in a suit and gray hair. Yao lowered the paper and placed it to the side. Kali then jumped on the display table and sat down on the chair.
"Welcome to the Nameless Medicine Store. How may I help you?"
"Are you Yao?"
Yao immediately furrowed his brow. "Who's asking?"
"I didn't introduce myself. I'm Fame Douglas, owner of DOATEC?"
"Never heard of you," Yao said bluntly.
That shocked the conglomerate owner. "What?"
"Mr. Douglas, Business Conglomerates like yours are a dime a dozen nowadays. I've been living in a cave for the past two years. So save for the few times I ventured into society, I never heard much about the news. Since I get the feeling that you're not here to buy anything, what is it you want?"
"I sense there is an air of contention despite this being our first meeting."
"You're correct," Yao instantly agreed, Kali meowing with a low tone of agreement. "I've never met a business owner on a scale like yours who has pure intentions with the power he possesses."
"Says the man who practically went on a tirade in China's Martial Arts world?"
"Don't compare us, Mr. Douglas. I was putting what I learned in Brazil to practice. No one was seriously hurt or killed during my time in China, and it only lasted seven days. What does DOATEC do anyway?"
"We're a weapons dealing company."
"And you're lecturing me about tirades? Whatever. Say what you want. You're organizing a Martial Arts Tournament and want me to compete. Sound about right?" Yao correctly predicted.
Douglas winced at the correct guess. "Correct. A week from Saturday, I'll be hosting the inaugural Dead or Alive Tournament. We thought we had all the competitors we wanted. But after hearing of your exploits in China, we decided to reach out and invite you as well." He flashed an envelope. "Will you accept? The rewards are grand for those who make the podium. $500,000 just for third place."
"Sadly, I don't like battling for money or just for the sake of it. There has to be a legitimate reason besides funding. Or the thrill of the fight, as one of my female acquaintances said. Are you a Martial Artist, Mr. Douglas?"
"I was."
"I'm not surprised. Narcissism is common among powerful men. What, too afraid of someone hitting you in the face?" Douglas remained silent as Yao shrugged and scoffed. "I practice Martial Arts since it's a powerful outlet for self-improvement and mental stability. It's a passion, not a business."
"Then make it a labor of love. We would love to have you participate." Douglas then studied the layout of the store. "Your store can certainly use the facelift."
"Tell that to my regulars. You're not doing a good job of convincing me, Mr. Douglas. What's the point of this tournament anyway?"
"Simply for entertainment. I understand that Martial Artists don't make much money. If they pursue it full-time, they almost always have to take secondary professions. Even powerful ones like you, Mr. Yao. You're the perfect example by running a Medicine Store. I'm just trying to share the wealth."
"Then share it with your kids if you have any."
"I have two," Douglas clarified.
"Are they bastards?" Yao immediately countered.
Douglas' face went from bewilderment to revelation to anger in moments.
Yao chuckled to himself. "I'll take your silence as a yes."
"I can do without your verbal attacks, Mr. Yao."
"Believe me, Mr. Douglas. I'm trying not to. Your predictability makes you easy to make fun of. As for your invitation, take it and shove it," the Sennin denied. "I've been in enough Martial Arts Tournaments ran by shady Conglomerates or companies that claim they do it for entertainment. Only to have shady shit going on behind the scenes."
Douglas, despite the tense conversation, was genuinely disappointed.
"I see and understand your reasoning but won't give up easily, Mr. Yao. Keep the invitation and," Douglas stated while taking out a pen pinned to his blazer pocket. "My contact information if you change your mind." He then shoved the envelope into Yao's hands. "Until next time, Yao. I hope to hear from you soon."
Douglas left the store without further incident. Surveying the invitation, Yao noticed a D was holding the envelope together. D for DOATEC, he assumed. Or D for Dick because that was the vibe Douglas gave off.
He was ready to rip the envelope in two but was stopped by another visitor. Yaw was actually happy to see this familiar face.
"Chun. Good to see you."
"Yao, just the guy I was looking for. I was hoping you would be back from Brazil by now."
"Just got back here this morning. Would've been here sooner, but my flight got misdirected due to bad weather down in Kowloon. So I landed in Shanghai."
The Interpol agent regarded him for a moment. "You're the Nameless Quan Fa Warrior, aren't you?"
"What gave me away?"
"Everything lined up. At least you're not wanted."
"That's good. So what's up?"
"I'm here to ask you for a favor."
"A favor? You need some dick?"
Kali's meow further exasperated the tone of the question.
"Wha... no! Well, maybe later. But not right now. What do you know about the Dead or Alive Tournament?" Yao simply showed Chun-Li his invitation for said event. "You were invited?"
"The CEO personally invited me. He left this here despite my reluctance to enter."
"Well... my favor involves you entering."
"What? Chun, I haven't been here for a day, and you're practically asking me to leave again?"
She bowed and clasped her hands together. "Please, hear me out, Yao!"
Yao sighed defeatedly. "Fine. What do you want?"
"There's someone I need you to arrest who's a suspect in involuntary manslaughter to Interpol China's HQ. He's entering the Dead or Alive Tournament that starts next week."
"And why do you need my help with that?"
"Because he already hospitalized our best officers, and I'm still stuck on the Shadaloo case to work this one. The other agents remember how much help you were in my custody, so they requested that I ask you. I'll even put you on Interpol pay to make a mint by doing so."
"You don't have to offer me money, Chun."
"I know, but the higher-ups agreed. Should you agree, I plan on making them keep their word. Please, Yao? For me?" she pleaded.
Yao gave out a heavier sigh. I guess this is what Guai was referring to about doing something greater than running the store.
"Fine. Only for you, Chun."
Chun gave him a platonic peck on the cheek. "Thanks. I'll be back in a couple of days with your badge. Welcome to Interpol, Yao." She then left the store.
Kali meowed as she yawned.
"Zip it, Kali."
Well, at least he'll have something to do when the time comes. Yao had to call Douglas and let him know of his change of heart to enter the tournament after all.
"Eh, that can wait until tomorrow," Yao muttered as he waited for the day to wind down.
Meanwhile, in Beijing, a scorching soul beat on unfortunate youth for causing a ruckus in the club he worked at. Like a monster, he left the man and his posse in a heap on the floor. He was more vicious than usual, though his co-workers didn't know why. If they learned of his reasoning, they'd probably call him insane.
The first Martial Artist who sounded skilled was wandering southbound for Shenzhen. The Nameless Quan Fa Warrior brought Jann Lee nothing but joy when he heard the rumors. Unfortunately, the Martial Artist never ran into the Bouncer, which tipped him off something fierce. It led to the poor sods getting beat to the point of hospitalization.
"Lee! Relax, man!"
"Shut the hell up! I heard about the first legit challenge in a long time, and I don't run into him while he's in China!? This is bullshit!"
"Wait, the Nameless Quan Fa Warrior? The guy who apparently challenged more than 30 Martial Artists and beat them all with ease? I heard he beat a Shaolin Monk! You a sadist or something, Lee?"
"No, just starved for an actual challenge. And I didn't find him!"
Jann Lee steamed as the ruffians ran away. Another job well done, so it seemed. His desire for a strong fighter to defeat tipped over into his professional life. Hopefully, the Dead or Alive Tournament would fix that desire. And maybe the Nameless Quan Fa Warrior would show as well. The mere possibility of a match with the man who tore apart China's Martial Arts World apart made Jann Lee's blood boil with excitement.
A/N: And so ends the first chapter of this tale!
No prologue trilogy this time around since you all should know who Yao is. We're getting things started quite nicely. We already saw Fame Douglas, Lei Fang, and Jann Lee of the DOA cast. There were also cameo appearances from Oro, Laura, and Chun alongside SF OCs in Ren and Guai. Who is the man that Yao has to bring in to Interpol? Will Jann Lee and Yao battle at Dead or Alive 1? How will Yao react to the rest of the cast?
Find out next time!
Oh, one more thing of note.
If you read Yao Guai's Journey and have a keen eye, you'd notice something is different about Yao. His age. He was 23 when he accepted the offer to train with Oro in the original tale. So why is he 23 now? Shouldn't he be 25? Typically, you'd be correct. But I don't plan on connecting this story to the actual sequel of YGJ whenever I start writing it. I decided to make this an AU. The events of YGJ did happen. They just happened two years earlier. So Yao participated in the World Warrior Tournament and started training under Oro when he was 21. But other than that and the obvious fact we're in the DOA verse, everything is pretty much the same.
Did you like the chapter? Did you not? Let me know with a Review or a PM! Vote on my poll if you happened to read Testing the Waters, and I'll see you all soon! If people leave enough reviews, I might pull a Stories and comment on them. We'll see.
Later.