And here's where to reality of Max getting older sinks in...

Chapter 13: Making Every Minute Count

The profound effect on the fact that the masters are gonna celebrate Max's birthday for the final time at in the Valley of Peace seems to be all too real for most of the masters because ever since they've gotten to know Max, most of them felt a huge attachment to this tiger cub and it's like he's a part of them because of his endless positivity, enthusiasm, a sense of gentle wisdom and learning to take chances by looking at the positive spin on a horrible ordeal. The one who's most affected by Max leaving was Tigress, who for a long time has treated him with so much disrespect and jealousy because she doesn't have what he's got, but Max has never shown cruelty towards her. To her, that shows a huge amount of strength and humility...something that she's slowly starting to gain.

Po took a deep sigh and said, "I just can't believe that he's gonna be leaving soon, guys."

"Me neither. I just can't believe he's growing up...and so fast." Monkey agreed.

Layla took the news of Max's depature from the Valley of Peace the hardest because she didn't think the day would come. Even though it will be time for Max to go, she wasn't ready to let him go yet because she sees him as her mother and sister at the same time and the fact that she'll celebrate Max's 12th birthday at the Jade Palace made her feel so upset. Takami could notice Layla's reaction right away and feeling like she could break down any minute, she quickly got up and left the Hall of Heroes without saying a word.

Layla's departure captured Takami's attention and he slowly walks up and left to check on her while the rest of the masters and students reflect on the time Max's amazing spirit and personality made a huge impact on everyone and share memories. Po recalled one particular one and stated, "Max really helped me getting my pants back from Monkey...when he pantsed me for the 8,00th time."

"The reason why I did is because I didn't want to be pantsed by a tiger cub. Let's put it that way." Monkey pointed out.

"Yeah, luckily...he got it back for me. Just wished that Max didn't see my butt though." Po said, very embarrassed.

"I think we need to forget about that part." Tigress pointed out.

Outside

Takami was looking around parts of the Jade Palace to look for Layla and as he kept walking, he knew the one place where anyone can get away...the Peach Tree. He walks towards the steps of the Peach Tree and when he heard someone crying, that's how he can tell that Layla's there. He silently walks over and sees Layla, just breaking down in tears. He could tell that Max's final birthday with the Jade Palace masters has made it hard for her to accept it and he said, "You okay?"

"No, I'm not! Max is leaving us and I just can't believe that we will never see him again! And the fact that we're gonna have his last birthday here with us?! I just can't stand it! I love the little cub like he's my son and I just don't want him to leave us! He's not ready, Takami!" Layla shouted, tearfully.

Takami could tell from that emotional outburst from Layla that she is scared that Max will leave and he came close to her and said, "Lay...we never expected it to come either. But you know...life happens. Max is growing up. It doesn't mean that he'll forget all about us."

"I know. It's just...I still see him as the little boy that I met. Just so adorable, precious and innocent. Part of me isn't ready for him to leave yet and stay a kid forever, but I know that another part of me wants to accept that fact that he's growing up." Layla replied.

Takami sat down next to her, trying to ease his injured arm and he said, "Layla...Max will always be with us in our hearts. It's not our decision on whether he should go or stay. All we have to do is just be there for him on his birthday. Who knows, maybe he'll visit us on occasions. We still have time left for Max, so let's make the most of it."

Layla wiped her tears and she knew that Takami's comforting words would always soothe her and she said, "You're right."

They hug each other and Takami tries not to squeeze her too hard because of his injured arm and they both walked back to the Jade Palace with the others so they can keep reminisicing their time they had with Max...together.

The reminiscing continues...