Here we are with chapter 2!
And I have to say…WOW! A Kung Fu Panda & Naruto crossover seems to have a MUCH larger audience than I expected. In just one chapter being posted, this story already has around 140 favorites and around 200 follows, THAT'S CRAZY! This story has the potential to be my most popular one yet! It's already on pace to pass my most popular story, and we're only 11k words in! I can only imagine how it'll grow as more chapters get added.
We have around 20 reviews posted so far, and I addressed a few at the bottom of this chapter! Please, review and share your thoughts! It means a lot to me, even if it's just to say you liked the chapter!
Thank you all for the support on the last chapter! It looks like this crossover has an untapped audience that is looking for more, so I'll be more than happy to provide!
I'll do my best to give it justice! I hope you enjoy the chapter and please review!
Disclaimer: I don't own "Naruto" or "Kung Fu Panda," they belong to their respective owners.
Passion Meets Failure
The Next Day – Early in the Morning
A day had passed since Naruto had been declared the Dragon Warrior. Whispers of his name had spread across China, with many hearing that a nine-tailed fox was now the famed warrior of legend. Some didn't care, while others looked forward to meeting the fighter.
Naruto had woken up with a sore body and tired mind. His mother had thankfully made breakfast for the pair. He would need to be at the Jade Palace soon for training.
"So you're the Dragon Warrior now…" Mei Ling teased her son while eating breakfast, "How does it feel?"
Naruto groaned while dragging his paws along his face. He had gotten home late last night and his mother made him promise to speak all about it in the morning. Now that they were eating breakfast, this was the perfect opportunity.
"I…I don't think I'm the Dragon Warrior, Mom…" Naruto admitted while looking down. "I'm not the best at combat. I can also tell that Master Shifu doesn't want me there…"
"Then why stay honey?" Mei Ling asked in a soft tone.
"…Because Master Oogway believes in me…" Naruto answered, "He has faith in me, and he told me to have faith in myself. I've been thinking his words over…and I want to try my best. I want to prove Shifu and the Five wrong about me."
The Mother smiled before standing up from their dinner table. Walking over, she caressed her son's face before speaking softly. "One thing I've learned throughout my life is that you're full of surprises."
"Hmm?"
"Do you remember when you fought those Croc bandits back when you were still young?"
"I…yeah, I do," Naruto nodded.
"What about the time you saved those rabbits from a burning building when you were ten?"
"Oh…you're right, I forgot about that." Naruto widened his eyes, the memory flooding his mind. It was during their travels, long before he became the Dragon Warrior. He didn't consider himself a hero, simply a person being at the right place, at the right time.
"My point is, you've always been generous. You've never sought out glory or fame for your actions, a true warrior." Mei Ling explained with a smile. "You have the potential to shape your life as you see fit. Just as Master Oogway said to have faith, I say to believe in yourself. Life is only as difficult as your mind sees fit. In my eyes, you were the Dragon Warrior long before Oogway chose you."
"Mom…" Naruto whispered before a wide grin split his face. Hugging his mother, the older fox chuckled. Despite his age, he would always be a mama's boy. He could always rely on her to be there.
"Now go," Mei Ling said while picking up her son's empty plate, "Go train and show them all. Become the Dragon Warrior you're meant to be…and if it doesn't work out, you can always come back home. I will be here with open arms no matter what."
"Thank you, Mom…" Naruto smiled while holding back tears. His Mother had long since been his number one supporter, this was just another instance. He couldn't imagine his life without her.
"No crying," Mei Ling softly chuckled while rubbing her son's head, "The Dragon Warrior doesn't cry."
"Mom! C'mon!" Naruto shook her hand off.
The Mother laughed, happy to be able to tease her son once more. It never got old.
Chorh-Gom Prison – At the Same Time
Tai Lung was not stupid. He was calculated, smart, and patient. He had been locked up for twenty years at this point, his reputation long tarnished.
He stood at a full height of 6'5 with purple pants. His golden eyes held nothing but malice while the spots around his body were yellow. His fur consisted of gray, brown, black, and white. His claws, tail, and fists were deadly in their own right.
He was hunched over, chained on each hand. A shell was placed upon his back, needles punctured into his skin. They were meant to paralyze his nerves, and it did.
But not for his tail.
When the time was right, when night obscured the prison, he would make his escape. He would not remain here any longer.
Hearing footsteps, Tai Lung did not raise his head but he did perk his ears.
"Well, well, well…" A voice sounded out full of arrogance, "Did the kitty cat hear the news?"
Tai Lung did not respond. He wouldn't waste his breath on such a fool. In time, he would make them all pay.
"The Dragon Warrior has been announced…" the warden said aloud in a sarcastic tone. "And guess what? You're not him!"
Tai Lung didn't twitch a single nerve in response. However, his emotions did spike in anger, jealousy, and hate. He would show them all and gain the position for himself.
The tall rhino was named Vachir and he was the warden of the prison keeping Tai Lung captive. He commanded the Anvil of Heaven, an army comprising 1000 rhinos. He stood tall, smiling at the fact Tai Lung would never escape this prison.
"Nothing to say?" Vachir scoffed while pacing around the trapped snow leopard. He didn't think Tai Lung would say anything, as he had been silent the entire time of his captivity. It was rather unsettling if he was being honest.
Tai Lung kept his head down, his blood boiling. He would be patient for now. When he had a chance, he would make them all pay.
"Whatever," Vachir said with a snarl. He walked over to a nearby platform and was raised high into the sky. Just as always, he would continue monitoring the prison.
Just as Vachir left, Tai Lung let out the faintest of smiles.
He would wait for his escape. He could feel it coming soon.
All of China would hear his roar again.
Jade Palace – Training Grounds
After breakfast, Naruto had made the twenty-minute walk in about a ten-minute sprint. He didn't want to be late for his first day of training. Besides, the run made for good training.
Naruto stood across from the Furious Five as well as Shifu. Oogway was attending to other matters, so it would only be them for now. He was dressed in his signature scarf and black pants, looking at the other fighters.
He wondered what Shifu had in mind.
"So it seems you haven't left yet fox…" Shifu mumbled in his mind. He had a hopeful smile this morning when he didn't find the fox in his assigned room, but it soon turned into a frown when he found him at the front of the Jade Palace. For now, he would be stuck training him.
Now, the Furious Five and Naruto stood across from each other, an arena separating the two. It was made of solid marble and was wide enough to house the entire Five comfortably. This was where they conducted serious spars.
"We will be conducting spars. Fox, you will face each of the Five in single combat until one person submits, is knocked unconscious, rings out, or it becomes too deadly. If it proves too dangerous for either side, I will intervene." Shifu stated with a serious tone.
"Man…" Naruto blinked, looking at the Five. While many of them seemed alright with his presence, he could still see Tigress glaring bloody daggers his way. It was clear the woman didn't like him at all.
"First up, is Monkey," Shifu stated with a sharp voice.
Monkey then flipped, landing on the arena with a small smile on his face. As for Naruto, he walked onto the other side and prepared to spar. This would be his first official spar against anybody besides his mother.
"Begin."
Without needing another word, Monkey launched forward and threw two jabs at Naruto's face. In response, the fox ducked and tried landing a jab of his own. While his speed was impressive, it wasn't anything Monkey hadn't seen before.
The two traded blows, fighting back and forth. To Naruto's credit, he didn't do horribly against the monkey but he was losing the bout.
Monkey danced around the fox, jabbing and flipping. He would strike hard, causing Naruto to wince when the blows landed. He had to rely on his eyes as Monkey was quick with his attacks. Naruto was able to land a few blows, but it didn't affect his opponent much.
His best combination was landing an elbow followed by a quick strike into Monkey's nose, which did manage to daze the Master. This made Naruto smile, realizing he had just landed his first official blow against a well-trained Kung Fu student. It was a lot more work than he realized.
Shifu looked from the side, unimpressed.
As the match dragged on, Naruto grunted and winced at the numerous blows Monkey dealt him. His speed allowed him to evade many of them, but he couldn't keep it up forever. With a final yell, Monkey shot both hands forward and made the fox stumble backward. Falling out of the arena, Naruto grunted while landing on his butt.
To his credit, Monkey bowed in respect, showing there was no bad blood between them.
"Are you done, fox?" Shifu asked with a smirk. He wondered if this small showing was enough to prove he didn't belong here.
"Done? We're just getting started," Naruto grinned while wincing. Those attacks by Monkey left a mark, but it wasn't anything he couldn't heal from. "Who's next?"
"Tsk," Shifu kissed his teeth before announcing his next opponent, "Viper, you're next!"
Viper slithered onto the arena with a smile on her face. She seemed to be in good spirits and had no ill intent against the fox.
In response, Naruto slowly hobbled over onto the arena before narrowing his eyes. He knew in terms of speed, Viper was perhaps the quickest on the team. He would have to be careful of her attacks.
"Begin!"
Many Hours Later – Training Grounds
Shifu had to begrudgingly admit, the fox was not giving up easily. He received a beatdown by the Furious Five throughout the day, without breaks. It was one loss after another.
After another.
After another.
After another.
He had lost to Viper, Monkey, Tigress, Mantis, and Crane many times over at this point. He would groan, moan, and wince, but never complain. Not once did he scream out or yell at Shifu, but instead take on a new challenger with a smile.
He didn't get breaks in between the spars, while the Five did. Looking over, Shifu could see some of his students panting from the effort. He only imagined how exhausted the fox was since he didn't have anybody to switch out with.
As the spars went on, Naruto was slowly holding his own. Instead of giving up, he adapted. Viper's speed was no longer overwhelming while Mantis's battle intelligence didn't outsmart him so easily. He was picking up on each trait the Furious Five excelled in, and adapting around it.
Despite the fact he may not have the best speed, power, flexibility, agility, durability, or anything else, Naruto excelled at one thing that none of the Five could match him in. Something that even Shifu believed the fox would beat him in.
Stamina.
Naruto had loads of stamina.
Naruto knew his stamina was great ever since he was a young child, and his constant travels only helped it grow. He could do this all day and night if he needed to, which he was fully intent on doing. He wouldn't show any weakness in front of Shifu. Not now, not ever.
Tigress released a shout as she shot her hands forward, knocking the fox out of the arena for the hundredth time that day. The female warrior was getting frustrated as Naruto was getting better with each loss. The most recent win of hers was much harder to achieve than the first.
His rapid pace of improvement was scary.
Sighing, Tigress turned around, ready to switch out once more. That was until she heard a shout from behind.
"Hey!" Naruto yelled out with a grin, "We're not done yet."
"You've been pushed out of the arena, I am no longer your opponent," Tigress pointed out.
In response, Naruto smiled, "That would be true if I was knocked out of the arena."
Turning around in confusion, Tigress widened her eyes to see what Naruto meant. She had believed he was knocked out of the arena, but his tails were latching onto the platform. His upper body was suspended in the air, only being held up by the strength of his tails.
With a grunt, Naruto flipped back onto the sparring arena. He felt his body ache and muscles strain, a clear sign he had overworked his body. However, he didn't care. He would continue to push onward until he was out for good.
He was close to collapsing, he felt it. His feet were shaking and his arms felt like stone. Constantly adapting and keeping up with the Furious Five while he wasn't near their level, took a toll on his physical well-being.
It was like comparing an ant to an elephant, but the ant had to keep pace with the larger creature. In this case, his combat ability was forced to improve and adapt to the Furious Five if he wanted to stay conscious. He didn't care if his body took a beating if it meant he learned from his losses.
And he did. He was getting better at holding his own. His timing, precision, accuracy, battle intelligence, and other factors were improving.
Despite his burning will and impressive stamina, he had his limits. He should have collapsed an hour ago, he was running on fumes and determination at this point.
"I can tell you're moments away from passing out," Tigress said in a calm voice, "Admit defeat."
Instead of responding, Naruto smiled while shifting into a comfortable stance. He was still working on making a 'fox' style of Kung Fu work. He was still working out the kinks and errors in the stance.
Viper showed him it was too slow, so he stayed light on his feet in return. He often bounced on them, ready to use his footwork.
Monkey showed him there were too many openings, so he adjusted his stance and body around his opponent.
Crane showed him he couldn't counterattack effectively, so he relaxed his arms when striking. He didn't need to tense up if he knew where his blows would land.
Mantis showed him he relied too heavily on his arms and legs, leaving him to incorporate his tails in combat. This was something he always wanted to work on, so Mantis was doing him a favor.
Finally, Tigress showed him that he often lacked the passion to fight with ferocity. He would hesitate in attacking at times if he believed it would cause too much damage.
He needed to take everything he learned from each of the Five and use it. In a way, this was a gift from them, even if they didn't intend for it to be.
"Tell me, Tigress," Naruto asked while keeping light on his feet, "Why do you hate me?"
"Hate you?" Tigress said in a low growl. "What makes you think I hate you?"
"You look at me with disgust in your eyes. I can tell out of the entire Five, that you don't like me the most."
This seemed to break the warrior, who snarled loudly. "You want to know why? Fine!"
She charged forward, throwing a strike to Naruto's head. Moving his head to the side, Naruto delivered two jabs into her stomach. They connected, which brought a smile to Naruto's face.
He was learning quickly. Given he couldn't even land a punch on Tigress when they began, he had come a long way in only a matter of hours.
"Everyone's been waiting for the Dragon Warrior for YEARS!" Tigress shouted with passion. She exchanged blows with Naruto, who deflected and dodged respectively. He had to be careful for now, choosing to stay on the defensive.
"Once they were chosen, it happened to be you! A no-name, weak fox who can barely hold their own! The Dragon Warrior is destined to be a Kung Fu prodigy with limitless power! All I see is a fox out of their depth!"
Naruto didn't let these words get to his heart, choosing to take them in stride. He would let Tigress vent and express her anger. He believed it would help him understand her better.
Shifu closed his eyes from the sideline, hearing Tigress release her true feelings. The rest of the Five looked downward, having a feeling along the same lines as Tigress.
Leaning his head to the side once more, Naruto delivered a gut punch with a palm strike to Tigress's jaw. In return, Tigress swung at Naruto's head but the fox ducked and performed a leg sweep.
Falling onto her back, Tigress widened her eyes seeing Naruto standing over her. Out of their squad, this was his first official win of the day. And it happened to be against her, the strongest of the Five.
Instead of finishing her off or leaning over her in triumph, Naruto bent forward and outstretched a hand. With a smile, he spoke, "It's okay, you can be mad at me. I understand. But something I learned from a wise master, is to have faith. All I'm asking is to have faith in me, Tigress."
Slapping his hand away, Tigress scoffed. She didn't think he would ever fit the role of Dragon Warrior.
However, once more, Naruto didn't take offense. Instead, he gave his hand out once more, smiling.
Shifu's eyes widened, remembering the words of Oogway. "…Have faith, huh?…" He realized he had disregarded his Master's words, and now they had come back to bite him.
Even the Furious Five looked on in thought, contemplating the words of wisdom.
"Have faith…can I have faith in him?" Tigress thought to herself. For so long, she secretly adored the position of Dragon Warrior. She didn't let it consume her life, but she would be lying if she didn't want the role herself. It had long since been a dream of hers to attain the title.
However, hearing Naruto's words, brought a shift in her attitude. Perhaps she was being too harsh on a fox that didn't ask for any of this. It's not like he disrupted the ceremony, he was trying to protect their backs from the misfired fireworks.
While her heart was against the idea of Naruto being the Dragon Warrior, her mind noticed other things. He didn't give up, cry out, or complain. He stood strong again and again after each loss. He took each moment as a learning lesson, even without Shifu's guidance.
He even stood with a smile after slapping his hand away. He was forgiving and nice, despite the fact others weren't.
She didn't know if she could do the same. That was not a quality that everybody had, even she knew this.
Finally, an answer came to her mental question. A question if she could have faith in him. A question that made her look deep into her soul.
The answer came with a sigh.
"…I can try"
Seeing Naruto's smiling face above, Tigress begrudgingly took his paw in hers. She would admit defeat, despite the fact she felt he was the lesser fighter.
Shifu looked on in surprise, seeing Naruto officially defeat one of his students. It was true that Tigress allowed her emotions to take control, meaning she was sloppy. He could also tell she was exhausted from the constant sparring, but so was the fox.
On a good day, one on one, he didn't see Naruto beating Tigress. Even now, he had barely overcome her prowess. However, the red panda would give him credit where credit was due.
He won his first official spar, against Tigress of all people.
"Did he just really beat Tigress?" Crane whispered over to Monkey, "I mean, it took us months to do that, and he did it on his first day?"
"Who knows?" Monkey gave a half-smile in return, "Like Tigress said, the Dragon Warrior is supposed to be a Kung Fu prodigy. Maybe we're seeing that prodigy before our eyes."
He meant it as a joke, but the words were overheard by Shifu as well. His mind began turning, the wheels spinning faster and faster.
Viper and Mantis looked at one another, thinking the same. Perhaps, just perhaps, there was some credibility in Naruto's claim to being the Dragon Warrior.
Just like Tigress, they would have faith in him for now.
Only time would tell if he was the famed warrior of legend.
Chorh-Gom Prison – Tai Lung's Captivity
It had been some time since Tai Lung had any contact with anybody. That would soon change.
The banished snow leopard heard footsteps once more, a familiar pattern he recognized. He didn't need to look up to realize it was Commander Vachir. The rhino often liked to taunt and belittle him whenever he had the chance.
He would be the first person Tai Lung killed once freed.
"You're free to go up men," The rhino stated while looking at his soldiers. "I'll be up soon." He hefted a hammer over his shoulder, walking over to Tai Lung. The rhino had a smirk on his face, clearly happy with his position.
Nodding their heads, the fellow rhinos rose upon the wooden platform they came in on. They were soon out of sight, only leaving Vachir and Tai Lung.
"So kitty-cat," Vachir began, "It's just us now."
Tai Lung remained silent, unmoving. He didn't care for the Commander or his men. He would soon be gone from this prison, he could feel it.
If Vachir was annoyed by the silence, he didn't show it. He produced a grin that reached from ear to ear. "C'mon now, don't tell me this prison has dulled your senses to the point you've gone stagnant?"
Tai Lung's instincts went on alert as he heard the voice of the rhino shift. It sounded much more feminine, different than the rhino's low voice.
Keeping his head low but darting his eyes upward, he was surprised to see the rhino shift into an owl. The female kept her eyes piercing into the skull of Tai Lung's head. She smiled widely, unfurling her wings.
This was Fenghuang, the strongest member of the former Furious Five.
She presented a key from her wing, tossing it to Tai Lung's feet.
"That's the key to your chains," Fenghuang said with a smile, "Use it to free yourself. Escape from here and lay waste to the Jade Palace."
Tai Lung didn't respond, but his eyes narrowed. Nobody gave anything away for free without asking for something in return.
Fenghuang could see the uncertainty and confusion in Tai Lung's eyes. Smiling, she explained herself, "Do you know me? Did Shifu or Oogway ever talk about me?"
Given his unchanged expression, she assumed the answer was a 'no.' She shook her head in amusement, believing as much.
"Allow me to introduce myself properly, my name is Fenghuang. I was a part of the Former Furious Five, alongside Shifu." Her voice was silky and smooth, with a hint of venom underneath. "We both want the same thing, Tai Lung."
"The Former Furious Five?…" Tai Lung thought to himself, staying still in his chains. He had read about the team in some scrolls within the Jade Palace, but Shifu didn't speak much about it.
That was when his eyes widened a minuscule amount, remembering where he had heard the name. This was the same person that was defeated by Oogway long ago before he was born. He had read some scrolls in the Jade Palace that briefly mentioned the group.
Fenghuang squinted, hearing a faint noise.
"I'm sorry?" The owl asked, not being able to hear Tai Lung's response.
"…I do remember you…" His voice was faint, his body unmoving, but the words came out clearly. It was clear that this prison had not dulled his senses.
"Good," Fenghuang nodded, "We both want the same thing, Tai Lung, to get rid of Oogway. He's the one who denied you your destiny and he banished me long ago. Kill him, Shifu, the Furious Five if you must, and attain your destiny as Dragon Warrior."
"You do not command me," Tai Lung said in a low growl, "I will do whatever I wish." He would not let his ambition be used against him. Nobody could hold him in chains any longer, even if they were metaphorical.
"Of course," Fenghuang nodded, "Do whatever you wish…but if no one can stop you in the Jade Palace, you can be the Dragon Warrior."
Tai Lung chewed the inside of his cheek, wary of Fenghuang. He didn't quite get her end goal here.
"Why help me?…why not go yourself?" The questions burned in his mind, he had to ask them. Why was Fenghuang going so far out of her way to help him? The two didn't even have a connection beforehand.
"We both know the Dragon Warrior was recently named," Fenghuang stated, "It would be best if you showed the world you will not be forgotten. Take the title for yourself. Once you deal with those necessary, I will gain my mission of ruling the Jade Palace as Master. That's all I want."
This is where the gears in Tai Lung's head began to turn. He finally understood the angle she was playing at.
He would neutralize those in his way of becoming Dragon Warrior, and she would swoop in to rule the Jade Palace. Truth be told, he didn't care what happened to the Palace he grew up in as long as he was proclaimed 'Dragon Warrior.' That's all he ever wanted after Shifu implanted the idea in his head.
However, just like she was using him, he would use her. After dealing with those in the Jade Palace, he would kill Fenghuang himself if needed. He would not allow anybody to use or control him, he was Tai Lung!
He also realized Fenghuang did not answer his second question. She didn't explain why she didn't go herself, but he pieced it together. He was no fool.
She was still scared of Oogway. She was too much of a coward to face him head-on, so she relied on his help. He had read the scrolls in the Jade Palace, he had read what happened to her. She had been defeated in combat by Oogway and banished from the Jade Palace.
He knew her name, but he didn't know she was an idiot.
He almost scoffed at the woman, finding her to be a leech.
Sweeping his tail over the key, Tai Lung kept it hidden from sight. He would release himself soon enough, as soon as he saw the perfect opportunity.
"I see you've taken the key…I'll assume your answer is a yes…" Fenghuang said before transforming into Commander Vachir once more. "I can't stay here any longer before they realize the real Commander is gone. I'll be awaiting your success, Tai Lung."
Tai Lung was confused about how the owl was able to shape-shift so easily, but he noticed a glow coming from her side. Upon closer inspection, he realized it was a red, mystical stone.
"I see…she's using a Shift Stone…"
It was a red stone that allowed the user to transform themselves into other beings. Once transformed, the user would be indistinguishable from whoever they were taking the form of. He remembered seeing one of two in storage back at the Jade Palace many years ago.
It seemed he found who stole the other stone.
Shifu never allowed him to go near it, keeping it under lock and key. It seemed there was more to Fenghuang than met the eye. He would have to be careful around this woman.
Without another word, 'Commander Vachir' walked away with a smile. He called for his men to lower the platform. Soon enough, 'he' was gone and out of sight.
Tai Lung felt the key under his tail. He felt the weight of the object as he slid it around. Soon enough, he would be out of this prison.
First, he would take back his rightful place as Dragon Warrior.
Then, he would deal with Fenghuang himself. That woman was too dangerous to be left alive.
One problem at a time.
Jade Palace – Dining Area
The Furious Five were currently sitting around their dining table, awaiting dinner. It had been a long day for them, some more than others. For now, they could eat and relax without needing to stress their bodies.
Shifu was not present as their Master was currently attending to other duties. Normally, one of the Five would cook but to everyone's surprise, Naruto stepped up. He wanted to try and improve his friendship with the Five.
In the meantime, all of the warriors were seated and awaited whatever dish Naruto was cooking up for them.
"So what do you think of today?" Viper asked Tigress in a soft voice. Ever since the warrior's defeat, she had been in a rather bitter mood.
"I'll be fine, Viper," Tigress responded with a sigh. It was true that her mood was foul, but she was trying to get over it.
"I got to hand it to him," Crane spoke across the table, "The guy could probably outlast us many times over in stamina. I mean, he was still kicking for hours! Who does that?!"
Monkey smiled while leaning back in his chair, "He does have the potential for something greater, even I cannot deny that."
"We'll see about that," Tigress spoke out in a firm voice. She wasn't quite ready to accept he was the Dragon Warrior.
"I hope he doesn't spit in your food for that comment," Mantis joked with a snicker. Tigress didn't find it amusing, choosing to cross her arms.
"DONE!"
Hearing a shout, the group turned their heads to see Naruto walking in with many dishes. He had a bowl in his hands while the other five were balanced upon his tails.
Carefully walking over, he gently slid the bowls to each of the Five and took a seat. The steam was rising up, showing they were recently made. He could even hear some of their stomachs growl, causing the fox to chuckle.
Looking into their bowls, the group was greeted with a delicious sight. It was full of golden noodles, beef strips, many vegetables, and a pair of chopsticks on the side. Even more impressive was the fact that there was no fur around.
"What is it?" Monkey asked while picking up the noodles with his chopsticks. Slurping it up, he smiled in delight at the taste. It was honestly really good.
"A dish I picked up on some of my travels," Naruto answered with a grin, happy that Monkey liked it. "The locals there called it Chow Mein, apparently it's spreading in popularity."
He wanted to try out his ramen but decided to save it for another day. Besides, it was more of a comfort food than a dish he wanted to impress others with.
"Your travels?" Viper asked with a noodle hanging out of her mouth. With a quick slurp, she continued, "I didn't know you traveled around."
"Oh yeah," Naruto nodded while taking off his scarf. With a gentle fold, he placed it upon his lap. "I grew up with my Mother and we always traveled around China in my youth. We've visited some cool places and I've met some awesome people."
"How was it?" Crane asked while eating a slice of beef. "Traveling around all the time?" He was curious about the fox's adventures.
"It was nice, I can't lie," Naruto nodded, "…but it does make you feel like you don't have a home. Constant traveling and moving around takes a toll on the mind. That's why it's nice being here at the Jade Palace. I get a feeling of security and safety here."
It was a rather heavy explanation for the fox as he was pouring his heart out, but the Five looked on with varying expressions. Some felt sorry for the fox while others admired his tenacity to keep moving along.
Tigress even had a look of pity in her eyes.
"So what about all of you?" Naruto asked while eating his noodles. "Did you all start training under Shifu right away?"
This brought a laugh out of Crane, who shook his head, "No actually, I was a janitor at a Kung Fu Academy before being brought here by Tigress years ago. She's the one who sought us all out."
Looking over at Tigress, Naruto could see a blush of embarrassment on her cheeks. It was clear the woman didn't like taking credit or the spotlight if she could avoid it.
Monkey then spoke up, chopsticks in hand, "I used to be a troublemaker and prankster in my youth. Thanks to Master Oogway who helped me change that path, I left behind that life. Years later, Tigress sought me out."
"No way! You used to play pranks?" Naruto asked with a wide grin, "I used to do the same thing all the time!"
"I don't do that any longer," Monkey admitted while shaking his head, "I have long since changed my ways."
"Want to play a prank together sometime?" Naruto wiggled his eyebrows while a smirk showed on his face, enticing Monkey to the dark side.
It only took Monkey a few seconds to respond, "Only if we don't get caught by Master Shifu or Master Oogway."
Both fighters shared a snicker, eager to pull off their first prank. The rest of the Five sighed, unsure of how this would play out in the future.
"What about you, Viper?" Naruto looked over with a smile, "What were you doing before this?" He gestured around the dining hall, implying the Jade Palace.
The reptile smiled widely, "I was a ribbon dancer in my home village. I wasn't born with my family's notorious fangs so I had to make up for it. Ribbon dancing was a nice passion of mine."
"Ribbon-dancing?" Naruto said aloud before looking over at the reptile. With a thumbs-up, he smiled, "That sounds awesome Viper, it's nice that you didn't let anything hold you back."
Viper blushed, looking away and eating her noodles. She wasn't used to getting compliments.
Mantis then saw the fox look at him, awaiting his story. Eating another vegetable in his bowl, the warrior spoke, "I came across Shifu when I tried to be a doctor long ago. Unfortunately, I didn't have the talents for it but Shifu saw something more in me, leading me to find Tigress."
Naruto widened his eyes, imagining the scene in his head. Mantis being a doctor did bring a funny scene in his mind, but he was impressed nonetheless. It was clear each of the Five had their own backgrounds.
Finally, he brought his eyes to the final member of the Five. Unlike the rest, Tigress still hadn't touched her steaming bowl of noodles.
"What about you, Tigress?"
The female seemed to be about to lash out before she held her tongue. She remembered Naruto's words earlier in the day as well as her promise. For now, she would try to have faith in him. If it meant extending an olive branch, then she would do so.
With a deep sigh, Tigress closed her eyes. "I was adopted by Master Shifu when I was still young. As an orphan, I saw many leave day in and day out with parents, except me...I had an issue with my aggression, causing many to ignore me..."
Naruto remained silent, entranced by her story so far.
"One day, Master Shifu came and taught me the patience to control my aggression. Not long after that, he adopted me into the Jade Palace. Everything I've learned, I've learned through Master Shifu. I was very lucky because he's never been the same since…since…" Before Tigress could finish her words, Mantis cut her off.
"Ever since Tai Lung," the small warrior said with a slurp of a noodle.
"We're not supposed to talk about him," Viper reasoned while eating another vegetable in her bowl. "Master Shifu doesn't like bringing it up."
"Tai Lung?" Naruto said the words aloud like it was a foreign language. "I see…wasn't he the snow leopard that was banished from the Jade Palace years ago?"
He remembered hearing the story while he was still young, but he didn't know the full details. It was hazy at most since his Mother didn't care too much for the story, which is how he found out to begin with.
"About twenty years ago to be exact," Monkey clarified, "Ever since his banishment, he's been locked away in Chorh-Gom Prison."
"So why did Shifu take his banishment hard?" Naruto asked, "Did he train Tai Lung?"
Tigress chuckled while shaking her head, "Oh he did more than train him, he raised him."
Naruto widened his eyes at the revelation, finally understanding the deep connection between the two.
Continuing, Tigress spoke with closed eyes. "Tai Lung was brought to the Jade Palace as a cub, allowing Master Shifu to raise him as his own. Ever since that day, Tai Lung showed great promise in combat, demolishing any task laid before him. He was even the first to master the Thousand Scrolls of Kung Fu…"
"The Thousand Scrolls of Kung Fu?…" Naruto thought to himself in wonder, "…no way, this guy is something else…"
"From his youth to adulthood, Tai Lung trained to be the Dragon Warrior. Day in and day out, he practiced each hour. When it was time and Tai Lung stood before Master Oogway…Master Oogway turned him away…"
"Why?" Naruto whispered, "I mean, he sounds like the perfect candidate for being the Dragon Warrior!" Despite the fact he was the Dragon Warrior, he couldn't deny the fact Tai Lung had a great claim for the title.
"Master Oogway saw darkness in his heart, making him unfit for the title…" Tigress said with a sigh. She remembered hearing this story years ago, but she never forgot it. She would never forget it.
Naruto sat there with a wide expression on his face.
"Tai Lung grew enraged at his dismissal, causing him to lash out. He aimed to take the Dragon Scroll for himself, but he was stopped by Master Oogway in the end."
"How come Shifu didn't stop him? Why did Grand Master Oogway have to intervene?" Naruto asked with scrunched eyebrows.
Tigress chuckled with no humor in her voice, "How could he? He had raised the child to be his son. He couldn't face Tai Lung in battle because all he saw in those eyes, was a cub begging for his next training session. He couldn't stop the monster that was created."
Naruto leaned back in his chair, surprised at Tigress's explanation. He didn't know that Tai Lung had such close ties with Shifu or Oogway. He wondered if in another life, Tai Lung obtained the title of 'Dragon Warrior.'
Seeing the empty bowls on the table, Naruto got up from his chair. For now, he would focus on making friends with the Five. He hoped they could get along in the future, given they would spend a lot of time together.
"Anybody wants seconds?" He asked while scooping up the bowls with his tails.
"Yes please," Viper said with an embarrassed blush. Despite her petite figure, she had quite an appetite. Mantis and Monkey also took him up on the offer, while Crane claimed he was fine for now.
While he went to serve another helping of Chow Mein, Naruto thought about his life. It was funny how he admired the Furious Five and now, he was sharing a meal with them. He never imagined his life going this way.
Looking over his shoulder, he saw Tigress hesitantly pick up a noodle from her bowl. With a careful eye, she slurped it silently. Her eyes widened from the flavor, finding it to be delicious. She took another noodle, this time with less patience, and slurped it instantly.
Naruto smiled to himself, happy that he was starting to break even Tigress's cold exterior.
It would take time, but he felt like he was making progress.
That Night – Jade Palace Training Grounds
Everybody was asleep in the Valley of Peace and Jade Palace, including the Furious Five. They had a long day and were eager to sleep.
However, one lone figure practiced into the dead of night, slamming his fists into the wooden dummies littered around him. His knuckles were bruised and sore, but he didn't stop. His feet ached and his paws throbbed in exhaustion, but he didn't stop.
With a twitch of his ears, Naruto heard footsteps from behind. Readying his stance, it loosened once he realized it was Master Oogway with a smile on his face. The tortoise had turned the corner with his trusty wooden staff.
"What are you doing so late, Dragon Warrior?" Oogway said with a smile. His head shook often as his old age was catching up to him, but his mind was still as sharp as ever.
Bowing, Naruto spoke in a soft tone of voice, "Grand Master Oogway, I was just doing some late-night training. I still have a long way to go before I master my technique."
"Again with the 'Grand Master' title?" Oogway teased with a smile, "You're starting to make me feel old."
"Apologies, Grand Master Oogway," Naruto teased back with a smile. Unlike Shifu who was strict and demanding, Oogway gave off the exact opposite presence. He felt like he could relax and joke around with the creator of Kung Fu.
It was a comforting feeling. He looked up to the tortoise despite his short time in knowing him. In his eyes, he was his true Master. He had helped him much more than Shifu ever did.
"Have you come up with a style of Kung Fu yet?" Oogway asked while walking over and examining Naruto's handiwork. It was clear he had been training for quite some time given the destroyed dummies around him.
"I'm getting the hang of it," Naruto chuckled, "It's getting there but I still need to work out some kinks."
"Hmm…" Oogway nodded, "And how are you learning?"
"From my mistakes," Naruto said with a smile. "I sparred with the Five today. Each one showed me something I needed to work on…so I'm trying my best to practice it now."
"I see…" Oogway spoke before looking at the fox with mirth in his eyes. "Have you found a goal yet?"
Naruto's breath stopped, looking over at the old Master. He didn't think he would be asked the question on the spot, but he contemplated the answer.
"I think…I think I've found my goal…" Naruto said. "I want to protect those around me. I've seen what power can do, and how it can corrupt. I want to be the voice for those oppressed and suffering, a way to get those out of the darkness. I don't care for glory or fame as long as Mothers can tuck their children in at night."
Oogway then smiled before he looked on with closed eyes. He didn't say anything, but Naruto got the feeling the tortious was pleased.
"I can feel there is something missing from your goal…"
Naruto stiffened his body before laughing out. It seemed he couldn't hide anything from the old Master. "There is…I also want to provide a home for all. Ever since I was young, I had to constantly move around. I want to create a land of peace, a land where people can live without worry about losing their lives or livelihoods. A place that welcomes all but provides protection when necessary…that's my goal."
"It is noble…" Oogway said before looking at the fox, "I too, had the same goal myself many decades ago."
Naruto's eyes widened, "That's right! Grand Master Oogway created the Valley of Peace long ago…" The thought hadn't crossed his mind while he came up with the goal.
"Perhaps you can succeed where I failed."
"You didn't fail!" Naruto said before he realized the words came out of his mouth.
Oogway laughed, "Yes, the Valley of Peace is quite beautiful…but darkness always lurks around the corner. I did not stop all threats like I could have in my youth…"
"You've done more good than anybody I know, Grand Master Oogway," Naruto spoke with the utmost respect in his voice. He wouldn't let the old Master doubt his decision or regret anything.
Looking over, Oogway's eyes twinkled. "How about a spar, Dragon Warrior?"
"A-a spar?" Naruto stuttered out in shock. "No offense Grand Master Oogway, but you would demolish me in any spar. I probably can't even land a hit on you."
"Nonsense, this will be good practice to help perfect your Fox Style…" Oogway said while walking a few paces away. With a grin on his face, he turned around and stood beneath the moonlight shining on his shell. "In fact, I should be asking you to take it easy on me. After all, I am facing the legendary Dragon Warrior."
Hearing the joy in his voice, Naruto couldn't turn down a spar from the best known Kung Fu Master ever. Few had the privilege of speaking to the tortious, and even fewer had the chance of sparring him. This would be an otherworldly experience for him.
He would be sparring with his idol, something he could never imagine. However, he would be lying if he didn't feel his lips spread into a grin. His white teeth showed underneath from the smile splitting his face.
"Alright Grand Master, if you say so," Naruto crouched while having his nine-tails flow behind him in sequence. He would use this chance to work on any more kinks and learn how to use his tails in combat. He was still struggling with smoothing out his stance.
"Come at me when ready," Oogway said while standing with his wooden staff. His feet dug into the gravel of the training grounds while a small smile was on his face.
Naruto swore he could see a golden aura surround the tortoise for a brief moment, but shook his head. He probably imagined the event.
Readying his muscles, Naruto launched forward in a blur. He used every ounce of strength, speed, and power in each blow. He flew forward at a much faster speed than ever shown in his spars against the Five. The reason he held back was because wanted to conserve his stamina earlier in the day, so he didn't go all out. He was sure the Five also held back in their respective ways, so he didn't mind it.
If only he knew how close he was to closing the gap between them all.
However, here and now, he would push himself 100% against Oogway. This was an experience he couldn't pass up. He would use this moment to see where he stood as well as finding how Oogway used the opening in his stance.
Anything less would be an insult to the founder of Kung Fu.
Reappearing beside the Master in mid-air, Naruto delivered a spinning kick to his head. He didn't see Oogway look his way, so he assumed his kick would land. He felt his body twist, adding more momentum to the kick.
To his surprise, Oogway merely intercepted the blow with his wooden staff.
A brush of air passed through the old Master, moving the gravel at his feet. It was a testament to just how much power Naruto had put behind the attack. Besides this, Oogway looked like he didn't feel the attack at all.
"W-what?!" Naruto thought in surprise as his foot connected with the wooden staff. He then blurred from existence, backing up. He was worried Oogway would attack directly after.
Oogway didn't chase, choosing to stay in place and smile. He awaited Naruto's next move.
Looking down, Naruto felt his foot throb. It felt as if he had kicked hardened steel when his leg connected against Oogway's wooden staff. He didn't see Oogway's eyes move, but the tortoise still tracked his movement.
Throughout the entire exchange, Oogway didn't move a single inch in any direction.
While most people would cower or retreat, Naruto smiled. He couldn't help but shake his head and smile, "…this…this is the result of hundreds of battles…this is what a true Kung Fu Master looks like…"
He couldn't deny the gap in experience between both of them was wide, too wide. He wouldn't win this spar, the short exchange showed just that. Even in his old age, Oogway was too powerful to be taken down by a novice.
However, Naruto didn't care about winning.
"Grand Master, get ready," Naruto punched into his open palm with a grin that reached his eyes, "I'm coming at you with full fury now."
Oogway gave a fatherly smile while looking over at the fox. "Very well, I hope you will still take it easy on me."
Naruto laughed, readying another attack. "I should be the one asking you that." He used the tortoise's words against him, causing Oogway to grin in excitement. Even he could feel his blood pumping.
Throughout the night, Naruto was pushed to his limits. Once he was at his limit, he pushed past that as well.
Unknown to him, Oogway examined him with a knowing look in his eyes. He didn't realize just how quickly he was adapting to becoming a Kung Fu Master in his own right.
He punched, he pushed, he kicked, but no matter how hard he tried, Oogway never moved from his spot. He tried his hardest to land a clean hit, but the tortoise would either redirect his blow or block it with his staff.
He tried attacking from behind, only for the staff to intercept his blow. It would always find his movements and keep up with his speed, even if Oogway wasn't looking at him.
He tried to attack from the side, however, Oogway would use his arms to roll his momentum away or lean slightly out of the way. The old Master never panicked, always keeping a smile on his face.
He tried feinting, going one way only to appear from another. Yet again, Oogway lived up to his reputation by keeping up. Not once did the Kung Fu Master fall for any of his tricks.
His reaction time was superb, perhaps the best in the world. But Naruto didn't care.
Each block, redirect or dodge only pushed him harder. He adapted, adjusted his stance, and tired again. He wouldn't quit until he made progress or Oogway put him down for good.
If he was being honest with himself, Naruto slowly forgot he was in a spar and just enjoyed the friendly battle between the two. He lost himself in the excitement, enjoying the physical bout between both fighters. He couldn't keep the grin off his face.
By the end, Naruto didn't realize one crucial fact.
He had moved Oogway by an inch from his original spot, unnoticeable to the naked eye. However, this wasn't by accident. Oogway was forced to move this inch to deflect a blow, a feat on its own.
This was almost unheard of, a beginner forcing Oogway to move at all was impossible to believe. But it happened. Oogway hid his smile at this, knowing that it was an honest win for the fox. He had been forced to move.
After all, they did say the Dragon Warrior was a Kung Fu prodigy.
Naruto got home with an exhausted sigh, feeling that his body was as heavy as stone. He had worked hard with Grand Master Oogway all night, coupled with the fact he sparred with the Furious Five earlier, and he had hit his limit long ago. His stamina wasn't endless, despite the fact he wished it was.
Opening the front door, Naruto was surprised to see his Mother at the dinner table. She was reading a book and had a candle by her when she looked up with a warm smile.
"Welcome home, Dragon Warrior."
Those few words brought a silly grin to Naruto's face as he walked up to his Mother and just hugged her. He didn't say anything, but his Mother could feel the emotions portrayed through his hug.
"Don't tell me you're still a mama's boy," Mei Ling grinned, "You're the Dragon Warrior now, you have to break the habit."
"No," Naruto huffed while hugging his mother. Despite the fact he was taller than her, he still felt like a child in her arms.
She was the only safe space in his life. The only person he could come to with his problems and not receive judgment. Besides Master Oogway, he didn't know if he felt like this with anybody else. Somebody he could tell everything to.
With a sigh, Mei Ling smiled. "Well, I guess I can't help it. It looks like the Dragon Warrior will be known for his bratty behavior."
Naruto chuckled into her fur, causing the Mother to close her eyes in contentment. He knew she was just teasing him, but it felt nice to hold her after such a long day.
Separating, Naruto looked around, "Why are you still up, Mother? It's late into the night."
"I should be asking you the same thing, mister," Mei Ling shook her head before grinning. Walking over to their kitchen, she prepared a bowl, "Go sit down, I prepared a dish for you. You need something in your belly after a long day's work."
Naruto nodded, sitting by the thick table. He almost collapsed from the exhaustion, feeling his eyelids become droopy. The day's events were starting to catch up to him.
That was until a familiar scent entered his nostrils, causing his eyes to widen in joy. Looking down, he saw the bowl his mother prepared in front of his eyes.
"Enjoy," Mei Ling said softly, "It's your favorite, ramen."
"Mom…" Naruto nearly gained tears in his eyes, watching the broth move gently in the bowl. After such a tiring day, his mother's cooking was what he needed. "…thank you."
Planting a motherly kiss on his head, Mei Ling whispered, "Just promise to take breaks, okay? Do it for your Mother."
"Of course," Naruto answered immediately, nodding his head. He didn't want to worry his Mother, she was already lenient enough as it was.
"Good," Mei Ling said before sitting in her own chair. Pulling out the book she was reading, she spoke once more. "Now eat, before it gets cold."
With a smile, Naruto dug into his bowl with gusto. He devoured the contents so quick, that his Mother had only been able to flip through two pages in her book.
He then asked for seconds.
Then thirds.
Then fourths.
Until the entire stock of broth, noodles, beef, and vegetables were gone. He had eaten the entire meal prepared by his mother without hesitation.
Finishing his last bowl, Naruto looked over in confusion. He could see his Mother smiling nonstop at the book she was reading.
"Hey Mom," Naruto asked with a cock of his head, "What are you reading?"
"Oh, this?" Mei Ling said softly. "It's just an old scrapbook that I have."
"Can I see?" Naruto asked.
His mother nodded, causing the fox to get up and look over her shoulder. Immediately, he felt a grin appear on his face while looking down at the book.
It was full of paintings and pictures he drew as a child. Some of the paintings had been professionally done, showing a baby Naruto cuddled in his Mother's arms. Another showed a drawing he had made about the duo when he was still a toddler. The crude painting barely resembled his Mother, as the colors were faded and unaligned.
However, Mei Ling looked on in fondness. She flipped to another page, showing a painting she had of both of them when Naruto was nine. They were searching for fish at the time and had their portrait taken in front of a lake.
Flipping to another page, Naruto's breath hitched. He didn't know this picture existed.
Leaning over his Mother who smiled, Naruto gently ran his thumb over the painting. He couldn't believe it.
It was a portrait of his Mother holding him as a kit, only hours after adopting him. She looked so young back then while he only had one tail at the time. He was pulling at his Mother's hair but she kept a kind smile on her face the entire time.
"Mom, when did you get this done?" Naruto whispered in shock. "I didn't even know you had this."
"It was the same day I adopted you," Mei Ling admitted with a motherly smile, "I wanted to commemorate the moment, so I paid for a personal portrait. You were still chewing on things at the time, so it had to be quick or else you would get your saliva all over me."
Naruto looked at the portrait a moment longer before staring at his Mother, "I love you, Mom."
"I love you too, sweetie."
Giving his Mother another hug, Naruto smiled to himself. He would always love his Mother, nothing would compare. He would even give up his title as Dragon Warrior if it meant he could stay with her forever.
Nothing compared to her love.
One Week Later – Into the Night
Naruto grinned, feeling fresh. He had just exited from the shower in the Jade Palace and prepared for another training session by Grand Master Oogway. The two often bonded late at night, either by sparring or speaking by the Peach Tree of Heavenly Wisdom.
He felt the closest connection to Oogway in the Jade Palace. The Master never faltered in his faith and he couldn't be more appreciative of him.
Throughout the week, Naruto's body didn't ache or feel sore as often. It seemed he was adapting at a rapid pace, feeling his muscles were much more defined than before he trained at the Jade Palace.
His stamina was his best friend once again, supplying him with the energy to keep going.
Over time, he was starting to hold his own much better against the Furious Five. While he still lost in their spars, he didn't take as long to win. He had wins over each of the members with varying results. He won the most against Crane while he had the least amount of wins against Tigress.
They were each formidable in their way, but he was slowly figuring out how they fought. They kept the same stance, form, and technique. This made him have an epiphany.
He would make his Fox-Style of Kung Fu rely on his unpredictability.
His tails gave him the element of surprise along with his battle intelligence, so he would combine both. He needed to be unpredictable if he wanted to take his opponents by surprise. If anyone could figure out how he fought or battled, anybody could work on how to defeat him. Every style had a natural weakness, he would make sure his didn't.
As for his relationships with the Furious Five, they had gotten better. He seemed to make friends with each of the Five slowly, even Tigress. The cold, strict persona of the Tiger had slowly lowered. It was minuscule, but Naruto noticed.
It was okay with him, as he was determined to befriend the Five.
As for Shifu, that was a different story altogether. The red panda still ignored him often and didn't teach him directly, but he was getting used to the fox's presence. However, he still felt like the red panda was trying to get rid of him.
Shaking those thoughts out of his head, Naruto walked over to his usual meeting place.
Keeping his pace, he arrived at the Peach Tree of Heavenly Wisdom. Naruto was surprised to see Shifu standing alongside Grand Master Oogway. Not wanting to intrude on a private moment, he turned away. Just before he could walk out, he heard Oogway's voice.
"Join us, Dragon Warrior," Oogway smiled while overlooking the Valley of Peace. He didn't need to turn around to know who it was.
Shifu looked like he wanted to protest but bit his tongue.
Blinking, Naruto walked over and stood beside Oogway. The trio looked on in silence, allowing the wind to brush past their forms.
"I had a vision…Tai Lung will return…" Oogway said suddenly. He allowed the wooden staff to hold his weight.
Before Naruto could say anything, Shifu interrupted him. "Are you sure, Master?"
"Mmhmm…" The tortoise hummed. "I sense his arrival will be soon."
"Then that's fine!" Naruto said aloud with a smile, "You can stop him again! We can even work on some other things I had in mind so I can help out too!" He didn't see why Oogway couldn't stop Tai Lung once more. After all, he was the creator of Kung Fu, nobody could beat him.
Oogway didn't say anything, choosing instead to look on over the hill.
"…and we'll have the Furious Five to help plus Master Shifu! We can stop him together!" Naruto smiled. While he was uncertain of how he would fare against Tai Lung, they had too many numbers to lose to him.
Oogway closed his eyes, allowing the Sakura petals around him to flow. He didn't answer the fox, choosing instead to hum softly.
"…you are leaving us…aren't you, Master?"
Shifu's voice was so quiet Naruto could barely hear it, and that was with his enhanced hearing.
"My time on this land has come to an end…" Oogway admitted with a soft smile, "It will be up to the Dragon Warrior to stop him."
He started glowing a golden aura, surrounding his form. A sea of Sakura petals swirled around him, covering him in a soft glow of pink.
"W-wait!" Naruto cried out with wide eyes, "Y-you can't leave us just yet! I still have so much to learn from you!…I…I…"
Oogway turned around, facing both Naruto and Shifu with a smile. He seemed at peace with his passing, not putting up a fight at all. Perhaps the old Master was ready for this moment. Perhaps choosing the Dragon Warrior was the last thing he hoped to accomplish in his life.
Neither knew how long he had been fighting off the embrace of death. But now, he no longer fought its clutches. His life purpose had been fulfilled, that's all he needed.
"I have a gift for both of you."
Grabbing his wooden staff, Oogway gently placed it into Shifu's hands. The red panda looked in awe and shock, unprepared for being handed such a legendary item. It wasn't the flashiest sword or the strongest shield, but it was the most important thing to him simply because of its sentimental value.
Nothing was worth more than his Master's staff. And now, he was being handed that very staff.
"Continue your journey, Shifu," Oogway said in a faint voice, "You will be tested many times, it will only matter how you respond. Breathe life into the next generation, do not snuff it out before it can rise. Just as I have led your life, lead others who need guidance."
"Do you mean-" Shifu said in worry only for Oogway to nod.
"Yes old friend, have faith."
It seemed those words finally clicked in the red panda's head. He gained a look of understanding in his eyes, seeing the world through a different point of view.
Finally, Oogway walked over to a stunned Naruto. The fox was trying his hardest to hold back tears. Despite the fact they had only known each other for a short period, Naruto had gained a strong bond with the old Master. Deep in his heart, he saw Oogway as a grandfather figure, someone he could trust. Now, he would have to depart with such a caring person.
"Do not fret, Dragon Warrior," Oogway smiled, "All will be fine in the end, if you choose to grow and learn. A student only remains a student if they cannot push past their failures. As long as you chase your goal, you will do just fine."
"B-b-but…" Naruto stuttered while holding back tears. He didn't take death very well, especially when it came from his loved ones. "I can't defeat Tai Lung! We both know that I'm not ready! I'm not even close to ready!"
It was all happening too fast for the fox. One day they were training normally, then the next, Oogway was ready to pass on into the afterlife. He couldn't accept it.
In response, Oogway smiled and tapped the fox on his forehead. A small ring of golden light erupted from his fingertip, showering around the warrior. However, Naruto didn't feel any different or show signs of an increase in power.
"You will use the gift I have bestowed upon you when ready," Oogway mentioned, "Until then, believe in yourself. Trust in Shifu, trust in me. Have faith, Dragon Warrior. Have faith, Naruto."
Naruto stared in shock, unable to process the fact that Oogway said his name. Throughout their time together, he had only referred to him as 'Dragon Warrior.' Now, in his final moments, he was given the honor of using his name. It was only once, but it brought a strange sense of pride to the fox. He felt like he had made the old Master proud in some way.
Naruto and Shifu both had to cover their eyes as the swirl of Sakura petals grew too much. Once it died down, they no longer saw Master Oogway standing there. He was gone and in his place were two students of Kung Fu. One had long mastered it while the other was beginning his journey.
Now, Oogway was no longer around to stop Tai Lung. It would be the responsibility of those left behind. They would have to carry on being the protectors and guardians of Oogway's legacy.
Falling to his knees, Naruto gently grasped the dirt nearby. "I-I can't…I can't believe he's gone…he was just here…"
Shifu didn't say anything, bowing his head in silence. He silently mourned his Master, feeling his death would cause ripples throughout China. They had lost a great leader today.
"I…I need to go…"
Shifu looked up in alarm, "What?!"
"I said I need to go," Naruto slowly got up and tightened his scarf, "I need to leave. This was never my destiny. Tai Lung will be here soon, I'll alert the Valley of Peace and prepare evacuations."
"NO!" Shifu shouted, causing the fox to raise a brow in confusion. "You will stay, and I will train you!"
"Why?" Naruto sneered in disgust, "From the moment I've arrived, you've hated me! You've despised me! Why do you care about me now?"
"Do you remember Master Oogway's words? Or have you lost all respect for him so quickly you disregarded them?" Shifu shouted out.
"Don't you dare speak about my respect for Grand Master Oogway!" Naruto replied with a harsh tone, "He's the only one who believed in me here! He's the only person since day one to push me forward, not backward!"
"Then follow his words!" Shifu fired back, "He said to have faith, so I will have faith in you! Will you do the same for yourself? In me!?"
"I-I…" Naruto bit his lip before responding, "I have faith in Oogway, so I guess I have faith in you for now…" It was as far as he could go at the moment. He didn't like Shifu in the slightest, but Oogway had earned his respect to the point he was willing to push aside his differences with the red panda.
It would be hard. It would be difficult. But it didn't have to be impossible.
Shifu didn't respond but turned around and walked away with the wooden staff in hand. He hid his tears well without a shift in his voice. "We will begin tomorrow…and for what it's worth…"
"…I'm sorry."
Naruto's eyes widened, feeling shock fill his body. This was the first time he heard the red panda apologize about anything. He never suspected he would have the humility to admit when he was wrong.
Maybe, just maybe, this training session between the two could work out. It was time to see if Shifu would be a worthy teacher.
Up above, crouched behind tiles, were the Furious Five. They had overheard the conversation down below as well seeing Oogway's passing. They were all in different states of shock.
Oogway was gone, and it was up to the Dragon Warrior to put an end to Tai Lung.
While it was true that Naruto had excelled in Kung Fu rapidly, it was not enough. He needed to perfect his technique, smooth his stance, and fight with the passion of a warrior. He needed to refine his skills to reach the level they were at.
None could deny his progress was staggering, but it would be hard to tell if it was enough. Tai Lung was a destructive monster in his own right, and he was heading here with the vengeance of one hundred suns.
Tigress shared a look with the rest of her team. Nobody exchanged words because nobody needed them. They all conveyed the same look in their eyes and body language. The night sky above illuminating their positions.
They would have faith, just as Oogway did.
BOOM! 2nd chapter is done!
I'm determined to make it seem like the relationships with the people around Naruto come off as genuine and natural instead of forced. I don't want it to feel like he goes from enemy to friend in a matter of seconds with no logic whatsoever.
Shift Stones and the backstory to each of the Furious Five is also material used in the Kung Fu Panda universe. Feel free to look it up if you want to double-check my work or want to see what the Shift Stone looks like.
It all contributes to more world-building!
Once again, we see Fenghuang behind the scenes, plotting her schemes. Only time will tell how things work out with her. Keep an eye out for her.
Anyway, onto some reviews!
HyperA2019: Here's chapter two, let me know what you think! Also, thank you for being the first person to review this story!
Jourdaine73: Keep an eye out for the relationship between Chi and Naruto, I will expand on that as the story goes on. It'll be an interesting relationship. Also, about this story having lemons, I wouldn't mind but it goes against the terms of service on this site. I don't know if the moderators on this site are strict about it since I've seen other stories with lemons and they're still up, but it's a big risk because it could risk this entire story being taken down. I guess I'll have to wait and see on that.
Uncle Dork: I'm happy you're excited! As a reward, here's another chapter!
Kilare T'suna: Just continued the story, let me know your thoughts!
FoxDemon1023: Your review made me laugh, honestly made my day. I appreciate the kind words! Hope you enjoy this chapter!
777torn777: Exactly, there are so many tidbits of great storytelling in the KFP universe that aren't used. I want to incorporate as many as possible while keeping it natural.
Zankuho: I guess we are all cut from the same cloth! I'm happy you like the story!
Insitreader: Of course, I like putting time into any fic I write to make it unique. I'm happy you appreciate the effort!
DaftMerc39: I appreciate the insight, it was fun to read your review! The fact that you looked up who Fenghuang was is pretty cool since that was my original intention with this story. There are a lot of things the typical fan doesn't know if they just watched the movies, so I try to include as many other sources naturally.
Please review and let me know what you think! I always say this, but I genuinely enjoy reading the reviews!
Also, here are the ages in case anyone is confused. Again, I am using the best of my ability to estimate these based on what is known.
Ages:
Naruto – 21
Tigress – 23
Crane – 25
Monkey – 24
Mantis – 24
Viper – 26
Shifu – 62
Mei Ling – 57
Tai Lung – 36
Oogway – 1000+