Winter Festival Surprises (part 1)

"Wow is it always this beautiful, daddy?"

"You bet!" Po shouts excitedly up to Lei-Lei riding on his shoulders, as he happily treads down the snowy steps of the Jade Palace. "Wait until we reach grandpa's noodle shop. It's gonna to be awesome, that's after the decorations are up…"

Tigress strolls behind in a slower pace; though keeping up with the two. She's in her 'Winter Festival' formal attire; silver vest with red vine patterns, a red Shaolin waist wrap, and dark brown silk pants. The only thing missing is her headdress (which Tigress's glad not wearing). However due to the winter weather -that's colder than usual-, she's covered up in a red color silk padded jacket with silver vine patterns.

The tiger giggles, watching the two giant pandas trying to catch a snowflake on their tongue once they reached the bottom step.

Unlike herself. Po is dressed in his usual formal attire -minus his straw hat-, without a jacket; though has his yellow scarf. Whereas for little Lei-Lei is wearing a green dress with gold flower pattern, a red sash belt around her waist. And despite she told her mother she didn't need it. Is wearing a silver jacket with red vine pattern; similar to Tigress's jacket, but in different colors. While resting upon Lei Lei's head is a red snow hat with yellow-dotted black stripes that her daddy gave her.

Seeing the joy and curious upon her daughter's face can't explain the happiness Tigress's feeling. Furthermore, with both the valley and Ping's noodle shop wasn't rebuilt during Lei-Lei was last in the valley. This is the first Winter Festival since the valley of peace been restored (thus the reasoning for the formal winter attire) as well as Lei-Lei's first time to experience the festival. And Tigress's looking forward to witness the whole moment.

"Come on, mommy! Don't wanna miss all the singing!" called Lei-Lei, over her shoulder, in the direction of her mother still making her way down the steps.

"Yeah, 'mommy'." Says Po with his sight towards the valley and not Tigress taking her time reaching the bottom step. "Didn't you promise Xiao she could meet, Tigerlily."

Despite their comments asking her to hurry. Tigress's pace remains. "Remember Lei sweetie, the singing doesn't begin until tonight. First we all need to help with setting up the festival party. And daddy and grandpa Ping has to cook most the feast for the celebration." Reaching the bottom step, Tigress's feline eyes went from her daughter to Po's. "And yes, Po I did promise her. But since she's helping also. There's no need to rush." Reaching Po, Tigress places a kiss on his cheek. "Also I still have to give the present I got her- ".

"Present!?" Lei Lei's eyes were sparkling, "Do I get presents mommy?"

"Of course you do. In fact, you might be getting the most out of everyone at the feast." Po replies, before Tigress could stop him in telling the little panda.

"YEY, PRESENTS!" Lei-Lei shouts, overjoyed. Following with chanting 'presents, presents... To the displeasure of her mother's ears.

"Po!"

"Uh my bad, Tigress." Says the giant panda, slowly backing away from the scowling female tiger. And of course Lei-Lei still chanting, indicate to the adults, her carefree state was making it hard for her to notice the danger her daddy just place himself in with her mommy.

And then, like many times through his past battles, an idea pops into Po's head to save him from another terrible beating. Eying Tigress slowly, Po attempts to get Lei-Lei's attention.

"Hey, Tigerlily." As if a switch clicks off, the little panda stops chanting, answering her daddy.

"Yeah, daddy?" Nearly high-fiving himself, Po grins at getting her attention.

"How about daddy tells the story of how your mommy became friends with Xiao Niao."

"Really!" Loving hearing the stories her daddy tells about him, her mommy and the rest of the furious 5, and her grandpa Shifu. But only usually hearing them at bedtime. Lei Lei's nearly jumping up and down in her spot up on her daddy's shoulders; causing a silent groan from Po by her movements.

"Yeah really. But you have to stay quiet during the story."

"And can't speak until story done?"

"Exactly." Confirms Tigress to Lei. Picking up Po's using the same trick he does during bedtime stories to Lei-Lei.

"Yeah, yeah- ".

"Tigerlily…." Warn Po. Causing the little panda to quickly apologize.

"Sorry daddy. I'll be good, please tell me." Po quickly moves aside Tigress, then glances at her from the right-side of him, silently offering a paw for her to take. A wordless gesture asking if she forgave him.

Though she slips her paw into his, showing she did forgive him. Tigress pecks his cheek again, before they resume heading for the valley as Po starts the story.

"Well the story actually starts with me looking for the perfect gift for grandpa Ping…."

As Po continues storytelling. Tigress rest her head against him, in bliss as she recalls how she came here; holding Po's paw with such affection.

After her request and him agreeing happily. Each Wednesday night thereafter was spent with her, Po and Le-Lei enjoying his soup, which led Po making different meals for dinner for her and Lei-Lei, more than just Wednesday. Along with the dinners came walks around the Jade Palace grounds to family games; such as mahjong, checkers and flying kites; the last one leading to Tigress -the first time- kissing Po's cheek. Earn after him catching Lei-Lei who thought flying on a kite would be fun, instead scared Tigress half to death in seeing her daughter hanging for dear-life in the sky. Event resulted Po in being more stern with the little panda, enough to be unaffected by her cuteness.

Thereafter, and unaware at first, Tigress starts innocently flirting with Po rather if Lei Lei's around or not.

However, since Po hasn't question why the closeness she formed with him. Tigress decided to hold back any conversation doing with their 'relationship'. And for the early months it seems she's content. Although lately, with daydreaming of taking her relationship further; such as kissing him on the lips. Being since nothing has gone pass just paw holding or a simply kiss on the cheek (the last one she gives).

Furthermore, with aware of her desires, Tigress's discovers she, like wants her fighting skills to always be perfect, wants her kiss to be just as perfect. Thus she's bewildered to learn she's like any of her female friends who want their kiss to be 'magical').

Fortunately, with her deep love for the giant panda at her side. Tigress's has who she wants to share the kiss with. Just not yet the right moment. Hopefully she won't have to wait too long for the moment to appear.

With the last thought, Tigress feels Po gently squeeze her paw as he carries on the storytelling. Normally with lost feeling in her paws years ago through her 20 years 'hardcore' training. Tigress shouldn't be able to feel even a 'bear squeeze' from Po. But during chi training under Po. They learned as long as Po channels just a speck of his chi from his paw to hers. Tigress can feel it.

Silently smiles at the small affection. But instead of returning the squeeze like usual. Tigress decides to nearly snuggle the side of her face into his neck.

"T..h.e pi…g --", Causing tingles to rush through Po by the surprise and new style of affection from his lovely friend. Unfortunate a stutter forms also. "I mean." Po clears his throat then goes on. "The pig was still shock I was the Dragon Warrior that he pointed out Shengqi's hut to me……"

Feeling another squeeze to her paw by Po as he's right back in storytelling. Tigress smirks, while her tail, unknowingly to her, sways behind in a sign, the tiger is in high spirit.

"Oh, my gosh!" squeals a brown and white female water buffalo that everyone knowns as Xiao Niao, rushing across the noodle shop's dining area to the arrivals by the entrance.

With Po's storying finished nearly half way to the noodle shop. Like every time his stories are done. Comes Lei Lei's questions.

Familiar with the habit of her daughter's, not to mention her many questions making her seem almost like a small form of Po; mostly when some of the questions are as silly as what Po would ask. Tigress finds it's fun watching Po getting a taste of his own medicine by speechless when he can't answer Lei Lei's questions.

Fortunately, this time around the questions aren't too silly. In fact, Lei Lei's asking about the holiday song that's sung at the festival as they approach the circular archway entrance of the noodle shop.

"You're here!"

Suddenly a familiar joyful yell reaches Tigress's ears. Before Lei Lei's quickly missing from her recent spot on Po's shoulders, to be spotted in Xiao's arms with the water buffalo cuddling the little panda.

"Oh Tigress she's so cute. And her fur is so soft! Oh I just love her!" Tigress and Po had to be blind not to see the startle look covering Lei Lei's face at the bubbly happy person. Despite Po had told in good detail of Xiao's cheerful personality through the story.

Luckily, eventually as they moved further into the shop. And Xiao calms somewhat down. Lei Lei's able to get to know the water buffalo better.

"So did Shengqi come with you?" Po asks Xiao, with him and Tigress, still holding paws, stood by the wrapping table Xiao, still carrying Lei-Lei, took a seat at.

"No, daddy's being held up at the imperial palace. But promises he be here, because he has a surprise for you, Dragon Warrior."

Barely a month after being fired as the head of the imperial security by Lu Kang. The emperor seeks out Po's advice on who'd pick for army commander and head of imperial palace security. And with no hesitation on his part. Po chose the free Shengqi for the job. Where shortly after. Shengqi flawed Duke Zhihui's plot in taken out Lu. For it seems, despite being under Pang Bing's control. He was against the former emperor naming Lu the new emperor, because the rooster was next in line if Lu haven't been worthy of the royal title. That's why he set his plot in action soon after Pang Bing's defeat. Leading to Shengqi stopping him in his tracks, resulting in the Duke going to prison. Sadly, with been discovered the entire main imperial guards was against Lu like the Duke. Lu needed new main bodyguards. Luckily with helping and picked well with Shengqi. Lu request Po to help pick trust worthy guards. And with the choice of guards and Shengqi remaining head security. All attempts on Lu's life hasn't made home since the new security staff begun.

And although it hasn't been done in nearly 600 years. Lu appoint a chief adviser outside the palace. Po. Which since the last outside adviser to the emperor was none other than, Grandmaster Oogway. Nobodies question Lu in his choice of naming Po the chief adviser. Although Po didn't know of the position he was given until during reporting Grandma Panda's death at the palace.

But though Po doesn't mind visiting -if he can get away- Lu when he needs him. The panda, lately, can do without the royal social people visiting -unannounced- to the jade palace. Furthermost -excluding the Furious Five and Master Shifu- all his friends treat him like royalty. Which he's comes to despise. Enough that he rather be known by Po with his close friends and family.

Not to mention they already were giving him the same respect Oogway got -beyond the dragon warrior title- for being consider the Great Successor of Grandmaster Oogway.

Leading to his current situation.

"Xiao I told you, since were friends. Call me Po, not by my titles." Po stressed. It seems Xiao still has a hard time in addressing him as just Po! Fighting a sigh as the female water buffalo feels mortify, repeatedly apologizing to him.

"Forgive me, Grandmaste-."

"Xiao."

"Oh sorry." Again Po sighs, but with a squeeze of the paw by Tigress. Po fights to compose himself.

"It's fine, Xiao." With reassure grin her way from Po. Xiao relaxes. Where eventually she's brushing her nose with Lei Lei's, causing the 3 -year-old to fall into a fit of giggles.

"Don't let it get to you." Tigress whispers, enough for only Po could hear her. Though Po didn't remove his sight on Lei-Lei as Xiao begins a clapping game with the young panda. He nods slightly; showing Tigress he's listening. "She still sometimes calls me, Master Tigress." Even if she's tempted to. Tigress resist laying her head against Po. But it doesn't stop her from giving him another squeeze of the paw.

"Thanks, Ti-"

"Hey Po, there you are." Cut in Mr. Ping rushing over, grabbing his son's arm. Causing him to pull Tigress along too. "Come on, son. I need you in the kitchen now. Oh hi Tigress." He said, addressing Tigress a second after she releases Po's paw. Ping pulls Po toward the way of the kitchen.

"Hi, Grandpa-Ping!" Lei-Lei waves, now sitting upon the table. As if he wasn't just trying to drag his son off. Ping stops everything, then turns to the little panda still waving at him.

"Aww, there's grandpa's little dumpling." In no hesitation on his part, Ping gathers up Lei-Lei, who started hugging the duck in joy. And thankful for raising Po. Ping's not struggling in holding Lei-Lei, in fact the goose is able to keep balance.

"Look what I made this morning!" Unlatching a string from her belt, Lei-Lei brings into view an orange color paper lantern with a family drawling of her with her mommy and daddy holding her paw on either side. All three smiling. "Can I hang it with daddy's?"

Ping fought from crying says, "You are so much like your daddy." Lei-Lei squeals in happiness as she loves when Grandpa-Ping states she's like Po. "And of course you can hang it with Po's."

"Thank you, Grandpa-Ping!"

Meanwhile as Ping's attention on Lei-Lei. Po leans over until his lips slightly brushes Tigress's ear.

"I knew dad would love her gift."

"And you're not even 'ecstatic' Lei-Lei's joining yours and your dad's tradition." Hearing the teasing tone through Tigress's whisper, Po grins happily, whispering.

"Beyond that, Tigress. By the way, do you want me to bring down her gift from the upstairs storage room, now or after the sing along?"

Initially the upstairs' storage room been Po's childhood bedroom. But during the rebuilt of the buildings caught up in Kai's rampage after destroying the Jade Palace. Including Ping's shop. Both Ping and Po chose to turn Po's old bedroom into an entire supply room for the shop. Clearly marking the Jade Palace is the panda's housing. Although a bed still remains in the room by Ping's demand.

"After." Tigress whispers back. "I'm sure the others want to give their gifts when we do."

"You're probably right." Just then, Ping screams at remembering he needs to get back to the kitchen.

"Sorry, my dumpling." Ping places the little panda back upon the table. "Grandpa-Ping as a feast to finish. Po!" He calls to his son, heading back for the kitchen. "With all the important people coming, like all the kung fu masters and teachers of China, and this being the first winter festival in three years. We must have the food done before they get here."

"Right, dad." Says Po and pecks Lei-Lei atop the head. "Be good for mommy."

Lei-Lei giggles saying, "I will daddy."

Then without thinking, Po kisses Tigress on the cheek, saying, "Don't have too much fun without me." Before runs off to join his dad in the kitchen.

Startled, a wordless Tigress touches her cheek, heart racing as her eyes stays on Po until he disappears behind the kitchen door. And due to the shutters were closed to the bar counter's window. She can't see inside the kitchen.

That's the first time he……

"Wow, you and the Dragon Warrior. It's so wonderful." Snap from her daze by Xiao's cheerfulness tone. Tigress looks to her smiling friend.

Instantly she clears her throat, saying, "Viper does the same to everyone." Taking a seat at the table, Tigress begins wrapping the laid out gifts. "So don't look too much into it..." She adds hoping Xiao will read between the lines. That she doesn't want to talk about hers and Po's relationship. However, it seems Tigress isn't getting her wish.

"You don't have to say it out loud, but you seem happier than I seen you before. And I'm sure it's got something to do with you in love with Po."

Now she calls him, Po.

Rising her eyes from the wrapping to the water buffalo across the table, ready to snap at her. Only seeing Xiao focusing on teaching Lei-Lei to wrap gifts. Her eyes never leaving the little panda.

"It's okay to be happy. And it's okay to be in love." Xiao states. She was about to say more, but didn't get the chance.

"Mommy loves daddy!" Lei-Lei claps in excitement. Tigress stun by her daughter's words, only becomes more stun by what the panda says next. "Like daddy loves mommy."

Not daring to look at Tigress, Xiao smiles big. "Lei-Lei, what makes you think your mommy loves your daddy?"

"You silly, Aunty-Horn." Says Lei-Lei, revealing the name she's labeled Xiao with. "Mommy has a doll of daddy like daddy has a doll of mommy." Here as Xiao glances at Tigress. Even she can tell the tiger's blushing.

"Oh, really?"

"Yeah, daddy's doll looks like mine." Removing her 'Tigress' action figure from the carrying pouch around her waist. Lei-Lei brought the tiger doll up to Xiao's view. "See." Though she showed it off. Lei-Lei didn't keep it out long before concealing it in the pouch. "But it has mommy's pretty robe on. Mine don't!"

"And does your mommy or daddy know the other has a 'doll' of the other?" Lei-Lei giggles.

"Mommy knows of daddy's. But daddy don't know mommy does."

Tigress fought from bashing her head into the table. Turns out the doll her daughter speaks about is the same one she told Po she lost while staying in the Garnet Palace. Regardless the other action figures were sent back to her from the former servants of Mistress Mugan as her only belonging. And she returned them to Po. But the funny thing is she just couldn't give back the Po figure. Instead the figure has remain under her pillow. Until last week during cleaning her room that Lei-Lei spotted the 'doll'. Luckily she was able to keep her daughter from wanting it by agreeing to go kite flying with her and Po.

Shaking off the image of her daughter falling from the sky. And still hearing Lei-Lei talking about what she told not to speak of. Tigress kept her eyes on the unfinished party favors, grabbing her daughter's attention.

"Lei-Lei."

Her daughter spoke enough. Tigress used her stern tone voice to warn the cub to say no more.

Catching quick the unusual stern tone in her mother's voice. The 3 -year old realize she wasn't supposed to speak about her mother's doll. Making Lei-Lei change her attention to something else. "Can I ride on your horns?!"

"They're called antlers you little gum drop."

Fortunately, this grabbed Xiao's focus just enough to switch from Tigress's love life to how cute Lei-Lei looks reaching out to her antlers.

Sighing in relief at her luck, Tigress silently carries on wrapping gifts. Even once Xiao runs around, with Lei-Lei riding on her antlers, while the two laugh carefree, as if there's two 3-year-old running around the shop and not just one.

Oh well it's better than answering questions about my love life I'm unsure how to respond too. Thought Tigress, tuning out the joyful laughter of her daughter and Xiao. Although she didn't tune out of how others were saying how cute and sweet her daughter is. Nonetheless Tigress didn't notice Lei-Lei making a certain gift with Xiao and Viper's help.

Talked with Mr. Ping and her father yesterday during preparation of how the festival will play out. That's why Tigress's not glad, thanks to Xiao unable to wait in giving her gift to Lei-Lei later after the sing along. Nobody wants to miss out presenting; including both Ping and Shifu, their gifts to Lei-Lei on her first Winter Festival.

Having no choice but decide 'present given' begins before the feast's dinner. So everyone can give the little panda her gifts.

Nonetheless of the change up. Tigress, seeing nearly everyone with a gift for her daughter. Instructed an order line for them all. Where the line started at the bar/order counter; where Lei-Lei sits; who seems bursting with excitement, while finishing off her mid snack bowl of 'tangyuan 'dumplings. And ending at the bridge; heading for toward the Jade Palace's front stairs.

"Present! Present! Present!" shouts Lei-Lei.

"Okay relax guys, everyone will get a chance to give their gift to Lei-Lei before the festival ends." Po shouts, helping Tigress in keeping the peace through the line.

"You heard him, keep in line and all will show their holiday gifts to my daughter!" Shouting at the head of the line aside her daughter. Never did Tigress realize she ever feel like she did at that time back when guarding Master Yao as he was giving wisdom exchange for a gift of wonder to him. Luckily this time she's got Po aiding her.

Disbelievingly, the first fuss begun with both Ping and Shifu claiming they should go first before Xiao; despite it been her to start the gift given sooner. However, Xiao being who she is. Didn't mind going after the two. Unfortunately, it brought on a shouting fight between the two grandpas; causing delay in the line, making trouble with the ones waiting.

Quickly seeing what's forming and familiar with his dad and Shifu's rival habit with each other. Po steps in.

"Dad, since Shifu is Lei-Lei's true grandpa. He should go first." Happy with how Po handle the situation and quickly. Although Tigress couldn't overlook her father smirks at Ping before handing his gift over to Lei-Lei. She remain lip tight while her daughter open her first gift.

The gift turns out to be a scroll poem; with a painting of the peach tree and a golden shiny color Oogway.

"It's the first scroll Master Oogway told me, before taking me as his student."

"Really, grandpa-Shifu," Lei-Lei looks at the pretty scroll. "But I can't read it." She says, pouting.

"That's why, once Tigress says your beginning training is done. You will bring me the scroll to read to you. Thereafter you will start your next step training with me." News like this, has Lei-Lei looking to her mommy for approval.

Knowing of this, Tigress happily nods to her daughter indicating what Shifu's says is true.

Overwhelm with joy, Lei-Lei leaps off the counter for Shifu. But too fast for the elder kung-fu master to react.

"Grandpa!" Lei-Lei inches from 'connecting' her forehead with Shifu's face. Didn't realize the danger she's put herself in.

"Gotcha." Always alerted, swiftly Tigress caught her daughter a second before harm came upon her. In the brief breath of Tigress cradling her daughter within her arms. Po was by her side, checking over Lei-Lei's wellbeing still within Tigress's arms.

"Oh Tigerlily, is daddy's girl ok." Ask Po in concern.

Witnessing the worry for Lei-Lei by Po is familiar for all who live in Jade Palace and Ping. However, it's a new sight for everyone else. Causing eyes of shocks and speechless mouths to continued watching the scene as both Po and Tigress, focus on Lei-Lei, clueless to the crowd.

Usually Lei-Lei loves the attention from her daddy. But wanting to see more gifts for her. She started fussing in her mommy's arms, trying to push away her daddy's caring paws. "Stop daddy. I'm fine. I just want to go back to my gifts." Pouting more, Lei-Lei folded her arms. "I want my gifts now!"

Witnessing again something they never seen. Lei-Lei showing a spoiled kid, if not bratty. Suddenly with no hesitation, Po leans back, folding his own arms, narrowing eyes on the little panda.

"You want what, young lady?" Po said, in stern tone. Realizing she went too far. Lei-Lei begins tearing up.

"But daddy!" she says, expressing her bottom lip in the cutest of all pouts. But Po wasn't swayed.

"Lei-Lei." Right away, hearing her daddy call her by name and not nickname. Lei-Lei knew her cuteness wasn't working on him. Then again, it hasn't work on him since she made her mommy cry after her kite ride where she tumbling off the kite, falling from the sky to luckily be caught by her daddy. But recalling the first punishment and lecture she ever got and by her daddy no less. Lei-Lei knew no present is worth her daddy mad at her, or her mommy crying.

Wiping her tears away, remaining in her mommy's hold. Lei-Lei sat upward, forming a fist, placing it against her other paw.

"I'm sorry, daddy. That was wrong of me to be." Bowed with her paws remain their form. "Please forgive me."

Immediately the stern tone was gone from Po as he says, "that's daddy's Tigerlily." Than kisses her atop the head. Followed by both her parents hugging her.

Soon after, things restart with the gift given to Lei-Lei. Where Ping offer to teach her to cook noodles, and after not resisting the pleading of the little panda -to Po's enjoyment- Ping promises to show how to make 'mooncakes'. Continued on, Xiao gave Lei-Lei -no surprise to Tigress- a small beginner ruan, and promise her music lessons from her. Then came the Furious Five. New flower ribbons and dance lessons from Viper. Painting kit from Crane. Joke lessons -to both Tigress and Po misfortune- from Monkey. Medical lesson of pressure points from Mentis.

Then came Tigress's gift.

"I hope you love it." She says handing over a wrapped present in pink -Lei Lei's favorite color- to her daughter, before standing aside with Po. Tigress, watching Lei-Lei happily unwrap her gift. Is unaware she's becoming a bowl of nerves. That's why she nearly jumps when Po gently held her paw; gently sending warm chi to it.

"Relax," whispers Po. "She's going to love your gift." Taking a second from watching her daughter still working in opening the present without ruining the wrapping. Tigress glances at Po.

"Thanks Po. I needed to hear that." And she wasn't lying, cause as soon as he said those little words. Her nerves relaxed.

Not allowing him to release her paw, Tigress leans against him, with affection.

Meanwhile with finally discovering what her mommy got her. Lei-Lei raised up the clothing to reveal a copy of Tigress's usual golden robe but smaller. Lei-Lei gasps, what she's holding, before turns to her mommy.

"Mommy is this…." Tigress nods.

"Yes, sweetie. I made it myself. Like mine. Do you like it?"

"I love it mommy!" Lei-Lei hugs the soft texture robe. Before quickly jumps up. "Can I put it on now, please." Tigress laughs, at how happy she made her daughter. Not to mention Lei Lei's dress was covered in stains from 'tangyuan 'dumplings.

"Sure, but we have to go upstairs to the storage room." Lei-Lei took her mother's hand leading her quickly for the kitchen door.

"Than what are we waiting for let's go." All the sounds following after them was laughter from Ping at the toddler acting similar to a excited young Po.

"Just like you, son." Po smiles proudly at his dad's statement. Clearly Lei-Lei isn't the only one who likes others suggesting she's like Po. The giant panda himself loves the mentions too.

Eventually coming back with Lei-Lei displaying her new robe with happiness. It was going to be Po's turn. But the panda promises to give Lei-Lei's present, at bedtime. Instead of now. Giving the rest of the ones at the party turn in giving Lei-Lei presents. Presents consisting of either toy or treats -the last ones Tigress knew will stain the robe by the time they leave-.

Thereafter everyone at the festival started exchanging gifts with one another. That is except Po and Tigress. Oddly though neither seem bothered by the matter.

However just when all the gift given seem to be over. Ping surprise all with saying, "The dinner can't begin until my son and granddaughter hang up their sun lanterns." Just like she noticed her dad's mocking stare towards Ping earlier. Tigress sees Ping smug look at her father while Po carrying Lei-Lei on his shoulders, approach the shop's entrance. No longer paying any mind to the rival grandpas. Tigress gaze with true love at the two panda overhanging the two sun lanterns.

With the sun lanterns display in the doorway, beautifully. Ping smiles, shouting, "Now eat up!"

"Everyone!" Announce Xiao, catching all at the party's attention after the feast dinner. "In honor of my goddaughter's first Winter Festival!" She goes on, overjoyed by Tigress, a moment ago, just honored her with being Lei Lei's godmother. "I like to start off the sing along with, singing 'the old fashion Winter Festival song!" Playing on her ruan, Xiao and nearly everyone sang the familiar song.

Though winter snow may fall and chill us to the bone…

As Xiao plays on her ruan, and everyone sings. Tigress seeing this as a great moment, while leaving Lei-Lei with Ping to watch. Made her way over to Po.

Making certain not to bring attention to herself, Tigress casually slips her paw into Po's. Felt the familiar warmth that comes from Tigress's touch. Stopping in mid-singing. Po looks at his best friend.

Eyes locked, Tigress wasted no time. "Meet outback." Once mouthing the words. Po watches Tigress slip away until he can't even spot her anywhere.

Never one great with stealth. The Panda master thought he alert attention to him leaving. Fortunately, with everyone busy singing and some focusing on the little panda singing cutely upon Xiao's head, to pay mind to the bigger panda no longer within the shop.

Will chase the chill away…

"Look Tigress if this about me kissing you on the cheek, earlier…." Po starts out.

In the time it took arriving out back. Thoughts cloud the panda's mind, with the main thought being Tigress was meeting him here to end their blooming relationship for he did something at the feast she didn't like. Thus recalling only kissing her on the cheek without her permission as the reason. Po immediately apologizes once reaching the narrow space within the back where Tigress is.

Taken in the almost pleading panda at assuming why she asked him back here. Tigress sighs. "Po, it's nothing like that." She starts walking. "I just thought we should exchange gifts now." She finish stopping within front of him. Po blinks his eyes.

"Really? But I thought you wanted to exchange later after returning to the palace."

"I did, but now seems a good time." For a moment Po took in their surrounds. The wooden tub bowl in the corner. Broken boxes to his right by the side wall of the shop. And behind Tigress, old looking rags hanging on a forgotten clothes line. Though he occasionally use to use the space for baths when upset in the past. Po thought anywhere but the tiny space they're in is better to speak at.

Hence why he's staring at Tigress in disbelief. "Right?" Po folds his arms, smirking. "What's the real reason?" Tigress's open her mouth just to close it. Instead rolls her eyes.

"Oh fine. The truth is I wasn't in the mood to join the sing along."

"Now that sound like my Tigress." Po chuckles.

Resist the growl fighting in her throat, Tigress quickly removes a small-size box from inside the pocket of her coat, "Anyway of the reason. Here." then shoves the box into Po's chest; resulting the panda's chuckles to end and replace with "Oomph!"

"Happy Winter." She hears him gasps as well as bent over, by the purpose impact behind the shove she gave. Still Tigress wears a deadpanned expression.

Po on the other hand, after the pain faded, stood up right, where doing so. The little box began falling. Luckily Po caught it before it did. With a clear head and just recalling what Tigress said. He took in the box with amazement.

"Oh wow a box, it's awesome!" Gazing at the box, and coming over the moon for it. Not noticing Tigress's shock look.

"Po, that's not-".

"And it's a cool blue!" exclaims Po, obviously not hearing her. Realizing this, Tigress rest a hand against her head, shaking it a bit. "Po." Within, her patients were slowly, slowly running thin with each second Po doesn't hear her.

"You don't find boxes like this anymore!" Po didn't see or hear her flinch her paw; releasing her claws. That's why he didn't see what's coming.

Fortunately, Tigress caught herself from lashing out to instead, mentally, inhale then exhale before, calmly laid a paw upon Po's shoulder, having the giant panda's chatting end with those jade greens staring back at her in innocent puzzlement.

In the short minute a smile grace her lips. Tigress has come to realize not only has she accept -awhile back- that she's come to adore some of the things that makes Po…. well, Po. But because she held resentment for him becoming the dragon warrior instead her. It hasn't been until he defeated Tai-Lung that she acknowledged him as a kung fu master. But it wasn't until events -that also helped her to accept things she can't control and to look forward to changes- that she finally allowed herself to see Po has a sweet, kind -though innocent and simple minded sometimes- personality, leading to their friendship. To now -through the recent years after her trip to the panda village- where she can't see herself without him in it. It's the reason why she has accepted what she's allowed to have with Po; despite she wishes for more.

"Po." Tigress remains her paw on Po's shoulder. "I know you like boxes. But the gift is inside."

"Oh!" Response Po, then rises the box up as if it would break at any second. His eyes went from the box, to Tigress. "Uh I should open it, shouldn't I?"

Without hiding a sigh, though the smile never left. Tigress is still amazed at this giant panda. "Yes, Po. Opening now would be wise."

In thoughtfulness, as he uses in handling all his action figures. Po slowly opens the top of the box. With the box open, Po shifts eyes to Tigress a moment before looking at the box as he pulls out the item, observing it with unclear reason of it.

A simple black string, though Po can feel the fabric of it is thick. With hanging from the string a wooden carve symbol of Yang. Painted white but in the circular circle is a small amber gem. Getting jewelry is unexpected yes. But Po's confuse of the other part. Being known with both the yang/yin symbol with his title as the one who mastered chi. So he didn't understand why he's given just yang.

Nearly by now grasping how to read Po and his not so hard to hide face expressions. Tigress answered before Po got the first word out. But as she did. Tigress unfasten her coat enough to display the lower part of her neck.

"As you can see," whilst Tigress continues. Po's attention remains on her, but sight is taken in the similar necklace to his, around her neck. A necklace revealing the other piece that's a white string with the wooden yin pendent. And where his yang's pendent painted white. The yin is painted orange with black stripes and a small jade gem making up the circle to the yin. "I wear the other piece I carved…"

"Wait you carved this I mean these?" he asks, mentioning first his and then the one Tigress wears. I mean sure Po knows Tigress has several talents and he recalled one time she carved out a key; that right after he used -accidently- as firewood. But he's still taken back by her carving the pendants. But as if he just noticed it. He realizes Tigress painted the yang in symbolize himself while the yin she painted to symbolize herself. Now grasping why, he was given the yang and she kept the yin. Po comes dumbfounded… For a second.

"That's severely cool."

"Yes I guess it is." Tigress replies. "But it was easy." She shrugs, becoming a bit bashful with Po's admiring stare wasn't dropping. "Even obtaining the gems were too."

"Really?" He says as he puts on the necklace, proudly.

"Yeah. The amber stone I found at the Peach Tree Hill." Although she doesn't mention the time had been right after Po took off to defeat the underworld demons and Ke-Pa once being revived by the current peach tree now that formerly was a sapling then.

"And the jade stone on yours?"

"I didn't need to find it." She lowers eyes to her wooden pendant, gazing at the green stone. "I've had this gem always."

"Always, what do you mean?"

"I mean it's been with me. It was with me when my parents left me at the orphanage. I just didn't know about it until the orphanage sent what little belongings I had after moving to the Jade Palace to Master Shifu.

"So Shifu gave it to you."

"Actually no. He believed a kung-fu student didn't need such things as gems or any kind of jewelry. It was Grandmaster Oogway who gave it to me. But I admit it was as I chose to make your gift instead buy it. That I decided to finally wear the only thing I have from my parents."

The admire look had left the panda. Though the thoughtful expression made her become insecure for this is the first time she spoke about her birth parents or she's sharing it with Po.

Nevertheless, of her now shyness. Being she reach this far wasn't going to back down now. Tigress was going to explain of her realizing three days ago after Po join the Jade Palace, when she noticed the panda's eyes match her gem. But never got the chance.

For without warning to her. Po pulls her into a hug. Although she hasn't had a hug from Po in weeks. Tigress can't overlook the panda's embracing her tighter than usual. But it wasn't uncomfortable to Tigress. In fact, the closeness just added to the already soft and lovable feeling Po's hugs give her.

More than she done before, Tigress eagerly buried her face into Po's cuddly neck. Not aware her light breathing was causing a hue red cover the panda's cheeks.

Po's idea was to make it seem to Tigress he's hugging her for just the wonderful necklace. But the truth was he's, though loves his gift. Been dying to have her in his arms again. Even if most of his past hugs had been to consoled her as a friend. Currently he couldn't deny how he's longed to embrace her like this.

Unfortunately, wont risk the friendly relationship he's grown with her; despite he wishes for more.

That's why when he feels the amazing sensation brought on by Tigress's breath on his neck. He forces himself to think he was looking too much into her actions. Making him disregard even her body language, saying, "Thank you, Tigress." Knowing she can handle it, Po holds her a bit more. "This absolutely out does the friendship bracelets I tried to give you years ago. With these necklaces, shows our friendship bond is unbreakable."

Caring words like those would bring anyone to smiling. However, all Tigress wanted to do was hide as her heart seem to just fall heavy at Po's words. Freely telling the tigress their nothing but great friends. Despite that's not what the carved necklaces stood for. A bond of course. But not just a friendship one.

Actually sensing tears behind her eyes, and the rising rage filling her chest. Without thinking she latches paws on his shoulders, drawling enough back to face him.

Instantly she saw the puzzlement and unsure written on his face by, she's sure, her glaring stare. But how can she deny his blend expressions only meant he's clueless to why she's angry. Getting her to realize she shouldn't be mad at him for misunderstanding her gift. For after all, isn't it her that's kept what's between them just friendly and nothing more?

Attaining the panda's reaction had been her doing; for keeping their relationship from increasing. Tigress begun lowering her head, sadly. Then again a strong, but soft paw stops her head's movement.

If Po was baffled at Tigress's angry glare. Then he's stumped at seeing her mad expression turning to sadness a second later.

In spite of this, with already witness seeing her cry before and how it affected him. Po in no hesitation gently grasped Tigress's chin; keeping her facing him.

"Tigress why are you upset?" Unconsciously his paw moves slightly from Tigress's chin to the side of her face; stroking her cheek, tenderly.

Being the true reason the panda's perplexed of all this. Tigress decides to tell Po. But when her mouth opens to speak. Nothing comes out. Only because she is reminded of why she's been keeping their relationship to a limit. Yet suddenly as her eyes downcast from Po's. They lock on his lips.

Making her envision them kissing, causing Tigress to lick her lips, while deep need fills her eyes. Actions Po noticed, but because the sight was unexpected. Po quickly drawls back, only to do something he hasn't done in years. Stumble backwards to land on his back in the snow ground.

"Ow…."

Broke from the trance she was in when cold breeze touches her face. Tigress blinks enough to find she's feeling the cold cause the panda's big form that been blocking the coldness from her face. Wasn't no longer. In fact, she's shock to see him on the ground on his back.

"Po!"

"Don't worry I'm okay." Po reassured, yet it didn't stop Tigress to rush at his side, in motion to help him up. Predicting by the look she's giving. Po let out a laugh; trying to buy sometime in shifting the question of how or why he ended on the ground from Tigress's lips. But seeming she's not biting. Po jam his paws into his black pants pockets under his robe. Just then recalling what he put in his back pocket that morning at touching the item. Pleased he's got the perfect distraction. He pulls out the item saying,

"Anyway, with you giving a great gift. I can't help but to reveal the gift I got you." However, in the motion of removing the item from his pocket. Something else fell out, catching Tigress's attention for its oddly a small scroll.

Curious getting the best of her. Tigress don't waver in picking it up, to Po's horror. Mostly when she opens it. Po quickly gets to his feet.

"Oh Tigress, that's not- "

Unfortunately for Po. Due to kung-fu skills Tigress able absorbed all the concept in the scroll. Making his words not useful. Still Po tries reaching for the scroll while attempting convince Tigress the scroll's not important and just hand it over.

"It's addressed to me?" She points out, at the same time keeping it out of Po's reach. "In your handwriting."

"That's because it was going to be your gift."

"It was?" Though Tigress's shock enough to be stun. It doesn't take away her remain holding off the panda from getting the scroll. Po on the other hand, accepting Tigress wasn't giving the scroll back anytime soon. Figured just telling her.

"Yep. It started out to be a poem." Tigress could gasp but suppress the urge to. Learning more about what would have been her gift. Got her full attention. "But like the scroll journals Shifu's got me doing…"

"…Turn into a song." Figured Tigress. And no surprise Po nods in agreeing.

Several of Oogway's scrolls lived through the damaged Kai made. But not all. So being the only one able to speak with the grandmaster tortoise through the chi staff offers asset into the spirit world without dying. Po's been for a couple of years getting rewritten scrolls from Oogway to replace the ones destroyed. However, with most the scrolls been nothing but journals of what Oogway learn through his 1,000 years on earth. Shifu has convince Po -with being Oogway's successor- to start his own journals for future kung-fu students learn from. But Tigress understands, being sometimes she been his company during him stuck in making the recent journals. That the panda has in fact made most his journals into small songs.

Nevertheless, of this knowing. Tigress can't help but want to hear the words within the scroll. But not by anyone but the panda who wrote it.

"I know you say it's no longer my gift. But I want you to sing it. Here. Now."

Po's eyes widen. "What? I can't sing that."

"And why not?"

"Well I don't have the voice for it, yeah that's it."

"Right?"

Nothing but sarcastic in her voice, but Po overlooked it, saying. "Anyway here's your real gift." Resisting from rolling eyes. Tigress shifts view to the object displaying in Po's paw.

Unable to hold it back, Tigress gasps, bringing a paw to her mouth.

Being who Po is. It's no surprise he carved his gift or the wood carving is another figured of her. But these things weren't what's having her nearly speechless. No it's the detail of the carved figure. It's done with it dressed in her daily golden color robe and black pants. And for the first time since she learned of the carved Tigress 'action' figures. This wasn't in any action move. Just in a simply standing pose. But adding to the differences from the others he's made. This Tigress had another figure with it. Within its arms was a wood carving of a sleeping Lei-Lei.

Furthermore, it clear to Tigress the image of the figures was actually the same back months ago after they left the panda village and arrived to the imperial palace to discover Lu dubbed Po his chief adviser. Only for Lu to convince Po and her to stay another day for the celebration of the new chief adviser party. Unfortunately, with only familiar with both the valley of peace and the panda village. Lei-Lei had trouble going to sleep, leading to Tigress having palace staff set-up a place for her to sleep on the floor in Lei Lei's bedroom. Eventually cause Lei-Lei started having nightmares of Kai. Tigress did the last result she could think of. Rocking the panda while humming a song she heard the caretakers at the orphanage would sing to younger cubs. Method worked. Though Tigress did warn Po to think about Lei-Lei next time he chooses to stay in a place she's not familiar with.

Out of all that and the bear a resemblance between the figures and that memory. Tigress wanted to know how Po got the image perfectly.

"Po how…. did you. I mean when did……..." She can't remember the last time she been lost for words. There's sometimes she sure but at the moment she can't think of one.

"One of the workers of the palace came and told me about Lei-Lei's trouble sleeping. So leaving Lu to plan the party on his own. I rush for the room Lei-Lei was staying in." A small smile spread across his face. "When got there to see you by the balcony of the room with the moon shine on you, cradling Lei-Lei, humming her to sleep. The image stuck in my memory. Enough I carved you two about three weeks ago. Although Lei-Lei almost ruined the surprise gift when she discovers the finish Tigress figure. But was able to keep her from getting it." Po's smile grew bigger. "So you like this gift better than the other, right?"

Knowing now what Lei-Lei been speaking about earlier, and nearly feeling her heart flutter as she silently fights tears. For out of all the things she's seen of herself rather it's a simple portrait or some toy figure. Never has she felt or believe she's beautiful. But the detail and care Po put in the figure, even with its eyes closed, but a peaceful look on it. Told Tigress all the work that was put into it, made the gift beautiful.

Obtaining the perfect gift, she's ever got. Tigress presses it to her chest. "I'll cherish it forever."

By this comment, Po was happy for he's assuming Tigress has forgot about the scroll. But that wasn't the case it seems when he reached for the scroll still in her paw only for her drawl it out of his grasp again.

"That said, I still would like for you to sing this song you made for me."

"But Tigress-." Po starts to refuse again. However, reading the pleading in her eyes, regardless the determination written on her face. He gives in, where sighing he takes the now offered scroll from Tigress. But before he even begins, he pauses a moment hoping Tigress will change her mind, saying, "Fine, but don't blame me when you go deaf from my not-singing voice."

Heard many times Po sing, Tigress should be lost in why Po figures his voice wasn't for the song. But recalling the lyrics. She can tell Po never sung anything like he wrote. Nevertheless, Tigress wants to hear him sang it to her. That's why not showing she's going to change her mind. Po begins, once clearing his throat and holding the scroll up, blocking his and Tigress's view from the other.

I've been tryin' to fight it. But it's getting stronger every day. Waiting for the perfect moment. To let you know that, Tigress, it's been you. The only one that got me through. And after all this time I finally see. That you and me could be so much more than friends.

Without a doubt Po's voice wasn't for this song. But Tigress didn't care. It's the words coming from him, that's making her face become warm and heart skip a beat. She never thought she ever be sung to or that she loves it. But here she was, listening to this lovable panda sang his heart to her.

And Tigress, I don't wanna mess up what we got. But, lately, I just can't hold it back no more.

Cause Ti, I… never felt like this before. And I… really wanna let you know. I'm fallin' for you, fallin' for you, fallin for you.

Feeling a little confident and don't really need to look at the scroll. Po lowers it from his face; giving view of Tigress across from him. But Po still won't meet eyes with hers. Even though those lyrics left him, freely.

Can't believe that all this time. I couldn't see what was right in front of me. Searching for the perfect lady. But all along, Tigress, it's been you. The only one that got me through. And after all this time I finally see. That you and me could be so much more than friends.

So the panda didn't see the sparkle come to Tigress's eyes staring over at him like she never done before.

Don't be afraid 'cause it could be so good. I'm hopin' that you feel the same. There's never been no-one, but you. I've been loving you so long. And I know it can't be wrong. 'Cause you're the only one who's had my heart.

Cause Ti-

And as quick as she did years ago back in 'Gome City' when she not only heard his feelings, but felt it too. With no warning, she launches toward him, cutting him off.

But she didn't hug him this time. Something Po realize as without hesitation, Tigress gripped a hold of the scarf Po's still wearing, and brings him in for an innocent kiss. Po's eyes widen. But they slowly close seconds afterwards.

Guess what Ming said, was nothing but rumors, thought Tigress feeling tingles and tingles rush over her at just her lips touching Po's. Sure she couldn't place a name on how his lips taste, but she's sure it wasn't what Woo's daughter said. In fact, Tigress -once Po starts kissing her back- deepens their kiss, while steps forward having the panda walking backwards only stopping once his back meets the shop's outside wall. Where Tigress took that moment to place her paws on either side of him.

Currently lightheaded and woozy from the tiger's assault on his mouth, while the younger self of him has nearly passed out to have the person he wanted to be friends with since he was five; when he met her in the market place, was now being kiss by that friend. Whereas his teen and fan-nut self was running around in his head screaming about having his dream girl like this. While himself right now – that was more than happy to return kissing back- felt like not only his head explode, but his entire body as Tigress leads him; showing her dominant self as she forces her tongue into his mouth.

However, hearing the lovely sound of Tigress fighting a moan, and losing. Po suddenly gets a push within telling -sounding like the bad Po's voice- him to stop following, but instead be the one leading. Already perverted thoughts of Tigress flying through his mind, he didn't fight the voice.

Thereby as Tigress was wishing he'd came here shirtless; so she can feel closer to him. She suddenly gasps at the sensation of his claw paws gripping the fabric of her coat at where she left it open; displaying her carved necklace. And then – while remain holding his lip lock with her; if not becoming more passionate- he rips the coat completely open; exposing her winter outfit underneath. Po wasn't finish yet.

Just like his claw paws latch on to her coat. They latch onto the red Shaolin around her waist briefly. Only enough to move Tigress against the wall instead of him, and rip it and her natural everyday wearing wraps carelessly off her; exposing both her tone mid-section and hips to his busy paws.

But following her desire which was brought on by one simple kiss. Tigress's attention wasn't on her now revealing fur-skin; though Po's paws roaming this part of her was filling the heavy flame that's encased her since their lips touch. No her focus was on Po's hot moist tongue twirling in her mouth.

Swooning with longing for more and her now being led by Po in their actions. Exciting tremor swept through Tigress. She never imagines she would be turned on by a dominate Po. But the heat rising between her legs was telling she was.

Seeing nothing but positive from taken control of things. Po boldly removes Tigress's coat from her shoulders, down her arms, carelessly toss on the snowy ground. Enclosed the lovely tiger with his embrace, Po, once more, plunged his tongue into Tigress's waiting mouth. Fusing Tigress body into Po's. Before sucking -unashamedly- on his tongue.

Long since gave up fighting her urges. Whether later she has to deny her actions, and induced hurting Po in process. It didn't matter. What matter was she wanted more of this panda…… needed more of him.

Suddenly Tigress gasped when her mouth came away from Po's hungry one. "Oh, my-." was where her words stop with a moan blend purr followed. For Po's hungry mouth found a new spot. The left side of her uncovered neck. By this, Tigress found her own claw paws slipping up his shoulders, clinching to the infuriating white robe; concealing his fur-skin arms from her touch.

As if he was feasting on her neck, Tigress's nails tore through the fabric of the robe; where Po can feel tingles from the tip of her claws once they found his fur-skin arms. Here Tigress's -as if on their own- legs latches to the side of Po, just as her perfume attacked Po's senses.

Instantly stopping his action on the tiger's neck as something dawns on to him. Wait? Tigress doesn't wear perfume?! That's when it hits him. What he was smelling wasn't perfume, but natural musk coming off Tigress. Telling Po clearly Tigress was aroused just like him. Causing some more uncomfortable within his pants. Nonetheless, encourage by knowing his dream girl was being turned on by him, Po finds his way back to her lips; kissing her long and hard, as his paws slips under her top, nearly stroking through the wraps hiding more of her sensitive fur-skin.

Tigress's shudders were the most wonderful sounds he heard, just making the urge -he never allowed his mind to reach- to throw Tigress to the ground and take her.

At the moment this thought appear in Po's head. Tigress was drowning deeper into her needs, that she accepted if Po took her right now…. She wouldn't stop him.

Suddenly as if the universe wasn't ready for these two to take that step. Alert -made from their Kung-fu skills- told them someone was coming.

Thereby, almost at the same time, both Tigress and Po releases their lip-lock before Po steps away. Giving both space to make themselves decent.

Where Tigress discover, during putting back on her coat and to button up. She couldn't. It seems Po had unintentionally cause the buttons to break off, leaving her coat unable to close. Which no longer something concealing her mid-section and hip -mainly with both wraps and Shaolin unwearable still laying in snow where Po tossed them.

However, with no time to fix this with the person getting closer. Tigress could only place her 'hardcore' mask in place before the person arrived.

Just then the side door to the noodle shop, opens, with Monkey's voice reaching them. "Hey Po, you out here? Shengqi here," It's then, Monkey sticking out his head, takes in the scene, before looking shock one second to next quickly raising his brows up and down, smirking. "Oh did I," his smile becomes bigger. "interrupt anything."

Knew he's not questioning, but stating his words. Tigress's quickly begins with, "None of your business." Through a growl. Yet she never had a chance to say.

"Nothing much," begins Po, gently, but unseen by Monkey, brush a paw against Tigress's, bypassing her to reach Monkey. Clearly the panda looks normal at first look, despite the display crawl rips on the upper part of his robe. "Just me and Tigress exchanging gifts."

Of course Monkey's no fool. He knew something deep happen between Po and Tigress before he'd arrived. Their ruffle a bit fur, small piece of silk clothing forgotten in the snow, Tigress's noticeable expose hips and unbutton jacket, and missing wraps ; showing off the rare view of her sexy female figure, mainly her usual hidden curves. Was revealing the signs of two making out.

After all he walked in on his brother with many of his flings enough to know the signs.

However where he didn't hesitate to rat his brother out or teasing him later. Catching Po nearly pleading that he go along with the lie and not make a big deal out the whole thing. Monkey decides to do what his non-blood brother asked of him.

Not to mention he could change his recent choice in the bet between all Po and Tigress's friends and family about the two becoming public with being an item, to the date Ping and the entire Panda village picked.

"Hope you didn't give her a carved spoon like you do for your dad?"

"Hey my dad like them each year. In fact he's made it an gift tradition. I even got my pop's one, but looks more like…

Though Po's explaining the different gift he gives to both his dads. Monkey saw the thank you' on the panda's face about overlooking what he almost walked in on.

Although Tigress caught Monkey wasn't going to give them trouble and pleased about it too. She wanted to know his reason for looking for Po.

"Sorry to end you two's conversation," Tigress starts, while in the middle of gathering her forgotten Shaolin belt and ruin wraps from the snow. Her eyes never move towards the two others. "But Monkey was you looking for Po just to tell him Shengqi is here?"

Even if it was tempting to tease Tigress at noticed her having rarely shy behavior. Monkey doesn't. Instead, while disregarding his surrogate sister exposing more skin then he ever seen her done, he answer as he truly almost forgot why he been sent to find Po.

"Oh right. Shengqi got a big surprise he wants to show you, Po." Instantly the panda was filled with excitement.

"Surprise? What kind of Surprise? Is it edible? ….." Despite everything that's occurred so far. Smiling in the panda's direction, fondly. Tigress truly loves how Po can be carefree so easy even in a still awkward situation. Nonetheless, with Monkey busy snickering at Po's excitement and rambling on guessing, Tigress, once again, got their attention. Leading, eventually, them starting to head inside. However even though Po had begun following his Monkey buddy in. Tigress held him back, but not before she told Monkey.

"Give us a few minutes. Then we'll meet you and the others inside." Despite fully smirking towards the two, Monkey simply nods before leaving the two alone.

Unsure how long silent fell over them once Monkey left, Tigress finally worked up the strength to speak.

"Po look about what happened-"

"Say no more." Cutting Tigress off, Po swiftly lowers his eyes to the ground, to hide the pain he was going to cause himself to save what they already have before coming out here. "I agree that we lost ourselves back there. And your right I shouldn't expect it to happen again. Because-"

"Do you love me?"

Not seeing this question coming, Po lifts his sight back to Tigress's unreadable expression. "What?"

Regardless what she was setting herself up in the future. Tigress just couldn't allow this panda think what happen between them was being caught in the moment'. Especially with her heart seeming like it's gonna shoot out of her chest. "Po are you in love with me?" she asked again.

Taking a moment, studying Tigress's now serious face. Po finally answer before shielding himself from the wrath Tigress was going to give him. "Yes, Tigress. Like those lyrics said. You're the one I love. Please don't kill me!"

Unable to stop from sighing, Tigress begins, softly, removing his arms shielding him from her. "If you don't want someone coming to see why we haven't return back. You need to put on a brave face as I answer you."

Accepting to do as she says, Po allows Tigress to lower his arms from his face. Where Tigress boldly steps up to him, meeting nose with nose.

"I love you too." Unable to resist, Tigress kisses Po. Yet before anything can progress more. Tigress broke the kiss. "But right now, let's talk about where this leaves us, later when we don't have other waiting for us. That means not showing anything has happen between us back here."

Feeling more hopeful for what's to come with them, despite having to wait awhile. Po quickly hugs the surprise Tigress, saying, "That's fine with me. But…." Here Po smiles, then shares a deep kiss with her. "just one more before we go in." he added after the kiss.

Though grins for the surprise kiss, Tigress can't stop from rolling her eyes at him, before going inside. With a still smiling Po behind her.

To be continued