Defier of Destiny

by Dr.Dude

Atop the Archon's Roost, a knight had lost everything he held dear. Nothing for him but an empty throne waiting for someone to take on great power... but with great power comes a chance to correct what went wrong and so he journeys back in time to reclaim what he lost. He will fight, even if he must start even further from when he began. *SPOILERS FOR LIVE A LIVE*

6. The Shifu Descends from the Mount

The old man's cottage, in its own way, reminded Oersted of Uranus' home. Humble and peaceful, yet also a testament to his wise and tranquil nature. Yes, it appeared aged on the outside, but the inside was well taken care of. Nothing excessive. Though he could tell his friends from Prehistory were still amazed at the concept of living somewhere that wasn't a cave. The cavepeople marveled at the home, especially with stepping on wood rather than stone or grass. Gori… was just helping himself to the peaches placed on the table nearby.

He shouldn't have been surprised that Gori's stomach would trump his brain.

As for the knight, he sat across from the elder one across a small table, watching him pour tea into a small cup before passing it to him. He then poured a cup for himself and then sipped it gently. Oersted took his cup and sipped his tea as well. It tasted different from the tea back in Lucrece. Perhaps it was a different blend?

"The tea is to your liking, I hope?" The old man asked with a gentle smile on his face.

"Tis a flavor of which I am not familiar," Oersted replied, feeling more comfortable with speaking with someone who knew how to speak properly, "but it is a pleasant taste. Soothes the soul. My humblest apologies for troubling thee so with our sudden appearance."

The old man simply chuckled and replied, "No need to speak so formally or act guilty on my account. I welcome this change from my daily routine, in fact. It is not often I get visitors here on Mount Aspiration."

"Mount Aspiration?" The former champion did not recall such a mountain being anywhere near Lucrece, that's for certain.

"The very same mountain we sit upon." The elder nodded. "As the axe can fell the tree with time, drop by drop can water pierce the stone. That said, not many can handle the air being thin and crisp with how high the mountain can reach."

Oersted couldn't help but blink, perplexed by that riddle the old man spoke of when describing the mountain. To live this high and be able to handle the air, perhaps he too was a sage? Though then again, Uranus was content to live in a small village like Fugalia. Perhaps he was more like Hasshe and wanted to live away from society? He didn't seem dispirited either.

"Still, pardon the good manners I lack at this moment." Oersted said to the old man. "Mine name, 'tis Oersted. Mine friends are Pogo, the small one, Beru, the woman, Zaki, the scarred one, and Gori, the animal. We have come from lands far away, but are looking for ways back home. Next thing we knew, upon this mountain we found ourselves hence. To intrude upon thine home was not our intent."

The old man stroked his chin, pondering on something.

"Your names certainly carry a foreign quality to them, so we can confirm you are not Chinese." He stated. "But still, I am rather amazed, for someone claiming to be lost, you know our language quite well."

"Your language?" Oersted asked with a confused blink. "But sir, thou speakest English."

"English?" Now on that, the old man raised a brow. "How odd. So we understand each other, yet believe we are hearing our native tongues? Curious."

Curious indeed. The knight agreed wholeheartedly. To him, there was no possible way this man was speaking a language outside of English. Yet to the old man, he spoke Chinese? Come to think of it, he had heard that there was a people who lived far to the east who spoke different languages. Not to mention other, less flattering details, but the knight chose to ignore that part.

"Oh well." Then the old man smiled and shrugged. "Two benefits from one action. Whatever the cause, it makes talking easier."

The fallen champion figured it would be good to let it go and so replied, "I suppose thou art correct. But what is thy name, if I may ask boldly so?"

"Admittedly, my name is something that I've long passed on from." The elder answered. "For as long as I can remember these days, I've simply taken to being called the Shifu."

"The Shifu?" Now that was a word he didn't know. "Pray, what is a 'Shifu'?"

"A master of a martial art."

Martial art was certainly a peculiar thing to hear. Perhaps it was a fighting style? Honestly, Oersted wondered just how one could possibly defend themselves without a weapon on hand. Well, aside from Gori, but his style was… unorthodox.

"You seem doubtful, Oersted." the Shifu got his attention, surprising him with his remark, "Perhaps you are more used to using the blade in your hand rather than your hands themselves?"

Okay, his astuteness was definitely worthy of respect.

"Mine sincerest apologies!" The former hero was incredibly sheepish at being so easily read. "I meant no offense! It's just that–"

The Shifu only laughed at the reaction and held his hand up to put his guest at ease.

"Now, now, there is no offense taken at all." the elderly one assured him. "There are many ways to fight a battle, and all people have their preferences. We just have to remember that it is never the first action to take."

Nearby, Gori paused in eating the peaches as his stomach audibly rumbled. With a grunt, he then left the room and went back into the larger room the Shifu referred to as a 'dojo'. Oersted figured it was probably where the Shifu would teach his students this 'martial art' he talked about. The pair then heard, much to the knight's embarrassment, a familiar tooting sound and a couple exclamations of disgust before Gori sniggered. Then they heard Pogo grunt angrily before they heard a thump.

"...That is unfortunately how Pogo and Gori interact most of the time." The former champion sighed, embarrassed beyond words.

"Ah," yet the Shifu just appeared to have a nostalgic smile on his face, "I remember when the days of my youth had those moments of mischief. What fun times those were."

The knight supposed that 'mischief' would be the proper word for Gori's antics. He certainly couldn't disagree there was some measure of fun to be had from them either. Pogo and Gori's friendship, no matter how comical it got or how often the lad would get frustrated with the simian, their friendship held strong. Not even letting a woman change that– letting her join them, in fact. Oersted admired that about the pair. Even envied that.

Too bad his feelings on friendship were not returned.

He then heard the old man hum as he looked out one of the windows.

"Well, it is about time I got to my planned exercises." The Shifu stood up from his seat and got ready to leave. "Perhaps, Oersted, you and your friends would like to come see my martial art in motion for yourself?"

"An audience thou wouldst not mind?" The former hero was surprised to hear such an offer.

The elderly one chuckled and replied, "I told you, no need for formalities, Oersted; though I do admire your dedication to the old tongue. But trust me. I would not mind others seeing my art. It has been a long time since I had students anyhow. An old man like myself would enjoy the company of the young."

He certainly couldn't argue there. He got up from his seat as well and followed the Shifu out into the dojo. There was Beru giggling at Pogo and Gori's roughhousing while Zaki just patiently waited while tapping his foot, only stopping when he saw the former champion and the elder coming. With the Shifu walking out, Oersted got them all to follow after Pogo and Gori stopped their shenanigans. They left the cottage and then walked up towards the summit, eventually arriving at the place where they first appeared in this land.

They then watched as the Shifu stood in the center of that spot, eyes closed and in meditation with his hands together. His breathing was calm. Even. And then, to the five's surprise, the Shifu moved fast as he punched and kicked in the air. He practically moved faster than they could follow as he shifted to different positions!

Oersted, most of all, couldn't help but be gripped at the old man's clearly unaverage movement. The Shifu didn't even appear to break a sweat either. His face did not even change.

"The Xin Shan Quan. The Heart of the Mountain, or Earthen Heart for short. With a spirit as unwavering as the earth, and a mind tranquil as flowing water." He heard the Shifu explain without breaking his concentration. "Yet gentle streams may surge with such strength to shatter even hardened stone…"

And more impressive at all, the Shifu could move even faster. Pogo was amazed to see someone who appeared as old as Oji to even be able to move like that. Zaki believed this man had to have been a warrior in his youth, and had to know how he managed to keep himself in his strikes. Beru just wondered what the old man was punching at. Gori got dizzy trying to keep up with watching the old human.

"To cultivate the soul and surpass the flesh, to strive for something greater than oneself…" The Shifu then zipped back to his central position, still as focused as when he had begun, "...that is my kung fu."

"Kung… fu…?" Oersted repeated that particular word. Perhaps that was the Chinese word for 'martial art'?

They then watched him walk towards the massive boulder, wondering what he was going to do next. The Shifu slowly and carefully brought his fist to his palm, taking a deep breath as he did. The wind gently breezed along. The five out of time were practically on the edge of their seats.

And then…!

"Hiyaaa!" The old man swiftly turned and punched the boulder with his fist!

They were shocked to see this. After all those movements, that great speed, and his complete and total concentration through it all, it had to have been building up to this. The Shifu did not move from his position, his fist still against the rock. The breeze continued passing. They all awaited the aftermath…

"...Nothing happening." Pogo spoke up after a few seconds of waiting. "Something mean to happen?"

"Maybe old man forget giant rock hard to break?" Beru guessed.

"But elder not bleed." Zaki shook his head. "He still stronger than normal elder."

Oersted approached the Shifu, concerned for his health and confused as to why he did such a thing when clearly someone of his age couldn't break something as hard as a boulder with fists alone. But indeed, like Zaki said, despite having punched it, the elderly master did not bleed in the slightest. If anything, his knuckles just seemed dusty. That should probably have made the hero feel silly for being concerned, but all the same, he couldn't help it. The more he witnessed him, the more he was reminded of the sage.

"Hm… It's as I feared." He heard the Shifu say. Then he saw him walk just right up next to the boulder and look out to the horizon. "I have not a moment to lose."

"What is the matter, good Shifu?" He asked, standing just behind him.

"It appears my age is finally getting to me." the Shifu explained. "I am not as strong in body as I once was."

"Truly, thou couldst have destroyed that boulder in thine youth?" The knight had to admit to being a little skeptical of that. "No offense or jape meant in earnest, sir, but mine doubts are many at that."

Once more, the old man simply chuckled, unbothered by the doubt in Oersted's formal words.

"I suppose I cannot prove it now." He had a bemused smile on his face. But it sadly dropped as he looked serious once more. "Still, I must use what time is left to me to find and train a disciple. A young protege, as strong in body as they are in spirit… a worthy successor to my art!"

"That should be no true issue then." The former champion meant to put the old man at ease. "Surely someone such as thee hath many who want to be as skilled as thou."

"Your confidence is appreciated," the Shifu turned to the knight and shook his head, "but sadly, the school of the Earthen Heart is even older than I. Aside from myself, few true practitioners of the art remain, and they are more interested in living peaceful lives rather than teaching the art anew." He continued as he walked past Oersted, saying as the knight followed him, "I do not disparage their choices. A peaceful life is something worth keeping. I am simply the only one who hopes to pass on the art for future generations to come."

Oersted again was reminded of the good sage Uranus…

"I envied, too, these men. Their simple lives. The song that calls young fools to glory great in due course condemns them to fall from grace. Within obscurity's embrace, an end- unburdened, nameless- aye, this was our dream."

Uranus would have loved nothing more than to have stayed in that peaceful little village of Fugalia, believing in the good of humanity and not needing to save anything or anyone outside of the usual healing magic. To be a regular person living his days of blissful retirement before dying of natural causes, rather than fall in the midst of battle for an epic cause. The knight was never comfortable with bringing the sage from his well-deserved peace, but MALIGNANT APOSTATE was practically insistent on recruiting him for aid…

And the priest died so he could live on. All for naught.

He doubted the Shifu would go through the same ordeal. After all, with his stamina, surely he was still bound to live a long life. Still, it wasn't like there was any harm in aiding him on his venture. A man such as this was sure to have many people recognizing him for his craft. After all, the people of Lucrece cheered for Uranus when he returned, did they not?

…Although, they were probably a poor example.

"Then perhaps you will allow us to aid you on your quest?" The knight asked, which led the four from prehistory to look at him, confused.

"You do not need to go out of your way for one old man's desire." the Shifu told him politely. "I can handle searching for students just fine."

"But I insist." Oersted was firm. "It is the least we can do to repay thee for letting us take shelter in thine domain."

"...Very well, if you insist so." the martial arts master relented. "Long had it been since I last ventured from the mountains. I would not mind the company along the way. But first, I should make sure I get everything I shall need from home. It should not be long."

Oersted nodded in understanding and the Shifu began walking down the path from the summit. From there, and with the Shifu out of earshot, Pogo gently tugged on Oersted's arm to get his attention.

"Ors-ted sure about this?" He asked. "Pogo like old man, but Pogo want go home."

"Oersted know, Pogo." The knight reluctantly went back to broken English. "But Oersted not sure how friends came here with him. Oersted not sure what brought him and friends here in first place."

He knew the how, but not the what. They would probably not understand if he tried explaining the finer intricacies of magic. Pogo and Gori would probably sleep during the explanation. Beru would probably not get the gist of it. Zaki would more than likely just want the bottom line, making him the easiest to handle but still no less difficult.

Plus, he still had no idea how his spell even brought them along, so it wasn't like he could think of a plausible explanation that he himself could understand.

"So we stuck here for now." Zaki sighed at this. "Hope not too long. Heiwa Tribe still need us for new peace."

"Beru want see more this place." Pogo's paramour admitted. "Beru like soft grass and pretty colors. Just like new home, but more big."

She probably meant 'bigger'. He had to think of how to fix their grammar later on. Still, they had important business to get to. No doubt the Shifu was finished with getting what he needed and would be waiting for them back at his cottage by the time they were finished talking. So, Oersted led the way back down from the summit.

As they went down, his eyes went over to the humble cottage the elder housed them within. A truly simple home, built with stone and clay with a simple tiled roof, although grass seemed to be growing there, showing the house's age. Nearby were a few brown pots sealed with cloth caps; what was within, the knight figured he didn't need to know. Yet as he estimated, by the time they reached the cottage, the Shifu came out and gently closed the door behind him. He gave a pleasant smile to the group as he walked up to them.

"You've obtained what you required, I presume?" Oersted asked.

Nodding, the Shifu replied, "I have. It is not much. Just a few steamed buns and a few garments that had not seen use for a long time. Hopefully, once we find students, they can find purpose again."

"So where go first?" Pogo asked.

"Hm…" On that note, the Shifu turned his attention towards the party from a time long before his own. "To borrow Oersted's words, no offense or jape in earnest, but first we should get you and your friends new garments. I do not judge your attire, but others would ask questions as to why you wear so little. Seeking the local dressmaker should amend this."

"You know of a dressmaker?" The knight asked.

"I know many who live near the mountain." the martial arts master smiled. "I would not have gotten so old just being by myself, after all. We shall meet the dressmaker in Yunfa, the local market. I should still have enough money for your friends to be properly clothed."

Gori gave a questioning grunt at that.

"...Well, maybe not you, I'm afraid." the Shifu apologized to the gorilla. "People would expect you to not wear clothes at all."

Fortunately, Pogo slapped his gorilla friend over the head before he got the idea to actually take his only cloth off his furry person.

Again chuckling in bemusement, the old man said, "Now come. We shall head east. Once we finish getting your friends clothed, perhaps we'll also have time to enjoy some of Hoi's most delicious soup dumplings."

"Soup dumplings?" Oersted never heard of that type of food before. "What art those?"

"Ohohoho…" The man chuckled some more, this time with a hint of eagerness. "If this will be your first time having soup dumplings, then you are no doubt going to enjoy it."

Apparently he decided to have it be a surprise, the knight figured. Either way, he and his friends followed the Shifu down the mountain and headed east. Eventually they came across a few stands and carts along the way, not to mention some stacks of wood meant for future use and a couple baskets full of fruit. And just up ahead, right before a road of cobblestone, was a sign clearly written in the native language of the land. But somehow Oersted could read it perfectly.

"'Yunfa Market'..." Oersted read the sign. "Hm… how strange. So tis not just the spoken word I can understand, but the written also?"

"My goodness," the Shifu heard him, "you have quite the peculiar circumstance, don't you?"

He flinched a bit. He didn't realize that he was speaking out loud. He honestly didn't have to worry about it that much when he was in prehistory since everyone there didn't have a good grasp on the English language. But now that he was in a time where people had words to use, the former champion could not help but feel sheepish. Now he had a habit to break.

Anyhow, they soon entered the Yunfa Market, and Oersted couldn't help but admire the sights. An abundance of humble buildings with plenty of people showing off their wares, be they produce or other useful things. He could see clotheslines hanging from building to building, with laundry being set out to dry in the sun. There were also a few other signs put up to designate which building did which business. Fortunately, the dressmaker appeared to be only a couple buildings ahead of them.

As the group walked into the humble market, the denizens there were glad to see the Shifu in the lead.

"Shifu! You've returned!" An elderly woman dressed in a red robe greeted the old man, making him smile. "It's so good to see you."

"A good day to you as well." The master politely nodded back to her.

An old man in yellow garments approached next, saying, "It's been a while since your last visit, Shifu. Pardon my rudeness, but who is the… eccentric group with you?"

"They are visitors from afar." Shifu explained. "They were lost, and so I helped give them shelter. In return, they are assisting me for the day."

"Oh? Even the big, furry creature?" The old woman looked over to Gori, who gave a goofy smile in return.

"Yes, even him." The elderly master chuckled in reply. "That said, they do need new clothes. The dressmaker is awake today, I hope?"

"They should be, and they are still making good business." One of the adult villagers, a man of somewhat spiky, short blue hair and wearing a black outfit over blue pants, didn't look as happy, though his attitude was not directed at the Shifu or those with him. "After all, they're the only ones around here not dealing with the local brute running around and stirring up trouble lately."

"A brute, thou sayest?" Oersted spoke up at that tidbit.

"Oh yes. Especially for us in the food market." Another old man mentioned as he handled a cart filled with peaches. "Always running around, stealing and eating without ever paying a thing for his ill-gotten gain, making food scarce as gold. Some of us even fear he might go after one of our stores next…"

Pogo gave his ape friend a particular look that prevented the ape from trying to sample some peaches for himself. He just got a disappointed grunt in return.

"Hm… That is indeed a concern…" the Shifu acknowledged. "But surely with Yunfa's many people, this thief should have been caught. How has he avoided paying his dues?"

"Despite his girth," the grumpy adult explained, "he is faster than he has right to be. Even those of us of great stamina cannot keep up with him."

A man of great girth, yet also of great speed. The knight tried painting an image of such a man in his head. At first, he thought of the golden creature he had first slain just before meeting Pogo and Gori. But seeing there was a lack of blood and people were merely agitated, it didn't seem to Oersted that this was the work of a demon. Perhaps this was truly just the work of a skilled bandit? Still, trying to imagine someone similar to Armstrong with such speed gave him pause.

"We shall make sure to keep watch for this particular thief then." the Shifu thus said. To the party out of time, he continued, "For now, let us get to the dressmaker. Afterward, we shall see about those soup dumplings."

"Oh for emperor's sake, where did you put the silk?"

That annoyed voice brought everyone's attention to a cottage to the right with an open door. A pair of young adults came out, bickering with each other over something. No doubt twins, with the same spiky brown hair and style of dress. But they were differentiated between the colors they wore. The one on the left wore yellow, yet the one on the right wore blue.

"Where 'I' put the silk?" the yellow-clad one bickered. "How about where you put all the cotton? It is not as though they could have gone missing overnight!"

"It was your turn to organize our materials to begin with!" the blue-clad one retorted. "Do not project your failing to do so unto me!"

"Ah, San Xi, Su Xi." the Shifu approached them, getting the pair's attention. "I see you two are up to your usual sibling rivalry."

Quickly, the pair stood straight and bowed their heads to the Shifu with respect.

"It is an honor to see you, Shifu." Su Xi, the one in blue, told him. "I was simply lecturing my brother, slacker that he is, on the importance of duty."

"Do not listen to him, Shifu." San Xi, the one in yellow, quickly cut in. "As usual, he wishes to pass blame for his negligence on me."

"What was that?!"

"You heard what I said! I–!"

And then two hands chopped them over the back of their heads, making them shout in pain. Behind them were two also similar-looking young adults, if slightly older. Again, they looked similar to the two boys, but their clothes too were different colored. The one who chopped San Xi wore red while the one who chopped Su Xi wore green. Both of them gave exasperated sighs at their two twins.

"Honestly, fighting out in front of everyone like that. What is wrong with you two?" The red one asked, rubbing his temples. "And in front of the Shifu, no less."

"Indeed. Learn some tact." The green one lectured. Then to the Shifu, they both bowed as the one in green asked, "Sorry about that, now what do we owe the pleasure of your presence to?"

"A little bit of business, Yi Xi, Er Xi." the elder answered them. Gesturing to Oersted and the others, specifically Pogo, Beru, and Zaki, he continued, "You see, I am housing these visitors from faraway lands, and to help them fit in, I would like for the three of these good people to get some new clothes. Their current ones are rather… peculiar, so to speak."

The four Xi brothers took a good look at the humans from prehistory, and clearly they could see what he was talking about. Outside of having very little on their persons, there was also that literal lizard the red-haired man was wearing. San Xi and Su Xi ended up staring at Beru's form, which prompted Pogo to glare at them and growl as he got between them and her. Fortunately, Yi Xi and Er Xi pulled their brothers back by their hair to stop them from ogling. It was clear that they had to reign their brothers back often.

"I must admit, Shifu," Yi Xi said, "this is quite an unexpected request."

"That is not to say we cannot do it." Er Xi assured. "It is just an odd event. We should have them done in no time at all."

"Truly?" Oersted was surprised to hear that. "Far as I knowest, the work of hours would be to create one outfit."

"Hah!" At that, San Xi looked proud of himself. "You must indeed be from foreign lands to not know the prowess of the Xi brothers."

"Fret not," Su Xi looked proud as well, "for we shall have them look presentable by the time your stomachs are full."

"And we'll also make sure San Xi and Su Xi do not mistreat the woman with their eyes." The brother in green eyed the pair, making them groan.

With that, the Shifu handed them what Oersted could see to be coins made out of copper and silver, no doubt the local currency, and said with gratitude, "Thank you for your service. We shall be back soon."

With that, the Xi brothers allowed Pogo, Beru, and Zaki inside before following them in to do their work. This left the Shifu, Oersted, and Gori to themselves. Now this was a good time, at least to the old martial arts master, to show them the wonders of soup dumplings. But just before they could make the short trip north to the restaurant…

"Stop! Stop!" They heard a ruckus ahead. "You've got to pay for that!"

Just then, from that restaurant, they saw a rather heavyset figure rush out of the door and knock down some pots filled with produce while being chased by an equally heavyset man wielding a cooking knife angrily. Oersted wagered a guess that they were witnessing that food bandit in action now, especially since he appeared to be eating some food from a bowl as he ran, easily outrunning the cook while skillfully stuffing himself with chopsticks. To the trio's wonder, the thief, despite his body's width, kept running and easily evading all the knife strikes from the clearly angry cook. However, all the evasions were causing other pots and baskets to fall over, creating a mess! Something had to be done before all of the market would be put into ruin!

The one pursuing the thief recognized this and called out to all who could hear, "Quick! Someone grab him! First one to grab him gets a free meal!"

Something activated within Gori's miniscule brainspace. It didn't take that much. After all, Gori mostly enjoyed two things in life. His friends and food. Well, those and those female goris back home, but first things first. If there was anything of the human vocabulary he recognized, it was obviously food and those related to food. So, upon hearing the eccentric restauranter speak his offer, Gori sprung into action faster than the villagers in Yunfa had. He actually leapt into the air and landed right in front of the bandit's way and held his arms out, preventing him from moving past.

The thief was actually a bit surprised by the ape's appearance and had to skid to a halt. He tried looking for a way past, but it was too late. The other villagers, cautiously with the animal present, had surrounded him and the agitated cook finally caught up. Oersted and the Shifu went up to take a closer look. By then, the pursuer was busy catching his breath.

The nervous-looking thief was an obese, young man with shaggy brown hair. He wore a pair of black shoes, a blue eastern vest and light brown trousers. He was also wearing a red cloth belt. As for the restaurateur, he was arguably a more obese man, perhaps middle-aged, wearing a red-vest tunic and purple trousers along with red shoes, though his most defining features were the long, string-like black hair tied in a top knot, the long and flowing thin eyebrows, and the long goatee from his chin.

Oersted was relieved they could get this situation Yunfa was suffering over with. However, he wondered what the Shifu was staring at the thief for.

"Ah ha! Caught you, finally!" the restaurateur finished catching his breath to steady his glare at the thief. "Now pay what you owe, right this instant!"

Looking down with guilt, the thief answered, "I can't. I don't have any money…"

The restaurateur seemed to freeze upon hearing that. Then he suddenly got even angrier and gripped his cooking knife tighter.

"Oh really?" He stomped menacingly towards the thief, his knife gleaming in the sunlight. "Well, we'll just have to find another way to settle this then, won't we!"

Fortunately for the now nervous voracious thief, the Shifu politely cleared his throat to get the cook's attention.

"Oh, Shifu!" The restaurateur was pleasantly surprised to see the man. "This idiot's been stealing food from me since I don't know when! He's single-handedly brought my business to the brink of ruin! Teach the scoundrel a lesson!"

"Oh, come now…" the Shifu tried putting the man at ease. "Surely putting a knife to the boy's throat is not warranted."

Remembering how he was positioning his cooking knife, the cook at least took a deep breath and held it back. He still didn't look that happy.

"I'm not being unreasonable!" He explained. "I've got mouths to feed, you know! A wife and half a dozen kids! Then add that to my brothers at my restaurant! What choice do I have!? Unless you'd like to foot the bill?"

"Tis a good point he makes, sir." Oersted could see why the man was frustrated. "The thief must learn that crime doth not pay, much less a stomach satisfy. And since he hath caused trouble for others here…"

The elderly master simply sighed, understanding both Oersted and the restaurateur's views.

"Very well, I'll see to the lad." the Shifu said. "Now, that said, hopefully that offer of a free meal still stands? Gori here is actually one of my new guests, after all."

At that, Gori nodded proudly, happy at the prospect of getting a free meal. Oersted questioned the morality of dangling one's words in order to get what one desired, but he supposed at the very least no ill means were meant. The elder did just pay to get Pogo, Beru, and Zaki all less inconspicuous attire, after all. Then the fallen hero wondered. Did he even have enough to support his own home?

Of course, the restaurateur knew the Shifu had him there, and so replied, "Very well. You and your… er… guests can have a free meal for helping us out this day."

He then turned his glare back to the thief and told him, "Let that be a lesson to you, thief! Steal from me again, and I'll take it out of your hide!"

The thief nervously nodded, and so the townsfolk, the eccentric cook included, went back to their business. Of course, there were a few mutters and a few disparaging looks sent the thief's way, but still. To Oersted, the thief had the decency to be ashamed of his actions. Or… was he looking depressed over something else? And what did the Shifu have in mind for him?

"Tell me." The martial arts master addressed the round one. "Why take without paying what is due?"

The voracious youth looked down and answered, "I cannot pay because I have no job. No one will hire me. I have no skills, no trade. My words are poor." He sadly put his hands to his stomach and added, "But my body is big, as is my hunger. I must eat…"

Gori grunted sympathetically. He knew that feeling. As for Oersted, he honestly couldn't see that as an excuse to steal what he couldn't pay for. But at the very least, he could understand the cause. After all, it was a better reason than entitlement and self-delusions of deserved glory and reward LIKE THAT VILE SORCERER–

Oersted quickly shook his head, feeling surprised. Just where did that last bit of vitriol come from?

"Young man…" he heard the Shifu address the thief. "Do not bemoan your body. It is a gift."

That surprised both the knight and the thief in equal measure to hear.

"Huh? But it is why I suffer." The thief said, confused. "Why people laugh and call me names. How is that a gift?"

"Because, young man…" the Shifu smiled, gesturing to the young man's form, "It makes you wonderful and unique. But it is for you to decide whether you will embrace your potential, or deny it in shame."

Oersted couldn't help but feel the wisdom from those words. Yet he could not place just why they felt so poignant in his heart. Just what could it mean? Was he simply being nostalgic about the priest Uranus once more? About his unwavering faith?

"P… Potential?" The young lad was still rather surprised by what he was hearing. "You think I have potential?"

"You move with the swiftness of a man half your size." The old man told him.

"Practice." Now the round man was rubbing the back of his head, sheepish at the idea. "After I eat, I must run."

"Practice, I wouldst not call thievery…" Oersted muttered.

"Come with me," the Shifu offered a hand to the lad, "and I'll see that you never want for food. All I ask in return is that you take part in a few training exercises. Think of it as a job, if you like– and your meals the payment."

At this, the lad's eyes opened up, revealing a dark brown color, and he gladly took the Shifu's hand, exclaiming, "A job? I always wanted a job! Thank you, Shifu–I accept!"

"Tell me, what is your name?" the elder asked, a grin on his face.

"S–" He started, but then amended his words, introducing himself, "Hong! Hong Hakka! When do we start? And when do we eat?"

"Didst thou not just flee from yonder restaurant whilst eating thine fill?" Oersted raised a brow. There was no way this youth was still hungry after all that.

"Er, y-yes, but…" Hong again answered sheepishly. "Once I run, I grow hungry once more…"

Gori snickered, again knowing the feeling there. The champion hoped that at the very least Hong would learn to control his appetite. But then they were distracted by Pogo's voice calling for 'Ors-ted' and Gori. They turned, seeing none other than Pogo, Beru, and Zaki arriving from the Xi Brothers' domicile, all of whom wearing new clothes.

Pogo did not seem to be comfortable with his attire. Green robes that flowed, which he was just swinging his arms about to see them flap, with yellow trousers for modesty and black shoes he was practically feeling forced to walk in. Beru wore purple robes that hugged her body thanks to a light pink wrap around her waist, and simple black shoes to complement the look. Zaki, all the while, seemed to be just right in his own red vest showing off his chest with black trousers and shoes. His lizard friend rested peacefully perched on his shoulder.

Pogo grumbled more as Gori sniggered at his new outfit.

"Hong, as you can tell, these are all my guests from foreign lands." the Shifu introduced them to the lad. "Friends, this is Hong Hakka. He shall be joining us for a while."

"P-Pleasure to meet you." Hong bowed politely, not wanting to look bad in front of the Shifu's guests.

"We get dumples now?" Pogo asked, still a little grumpy about what he had to wear.

"Ah yes, I did promise that, didn't I?" the old master chuckled at that. "And the best part is we managed to get a meal there for free. Let's head to Hoi's now, shall we?"

"H-Hoi's?" At that, Hong sounded nervous. "Um, excuse me, Shifu, but I'm not sure the cook will be happy to see me back there so soon. Would it be imprudent to ask you to bring back a meal from inside when you're there?"

The Shifu simply chuckled and replied, "Worry not, Hong. We won't forget. Make sure to wait for us, won't you?"

"Yes, Shifu." Hong nodded. "I'll be outside the village."

With that, Hong went down the path and towards the exit to Yunfa. However, Gori seemed to notice the lad was rather down about having to miss out on food. Something meaningful in his simple mind actually registered that day. So, with an apologetic grunt, he nodded to his friends and then went along after Hong. He figured Hong needed a companion to be with while he waited.

Besides, his friends would also bring him food, right?

As for the party proper, they helped themselves to sitting at Hoi's restaurant. Oersted looked around. On occasion he had been to the local taverns with… well, the taverns were hardly as well-kept as this. Round tables with red cloths, nice wooden chairs, plenty of space for people to sit and eat their meals at, unique depictions of dragons for art, and even paper lanterns hanging above for ambience. There was something calming here in comparison to the rabble-rousing he'd see at a tavern back home.

"When get dumples?" Pogo asked, trying his hardest to wait patiently and failing.

"Be patient, Pogo." Oersted told his short companion. "Dumplings cook different than large meat. Take longer."

"Dumples better be worth long wait then." The caveman grumbled.

"Dumples taste good?" Beru asked the elder one.

"The soup dumplings are Hoi Cha's best selling meals for a good reason." The Shifu explained. "It's hardly surprising that his restaurant is popular because of them."

"Dumples made from boar, cow and bird?" Zaki was honestly curious about it since the variety of food back home was rather… limited.

"Pork, beef, and chicken, yes." Their host nodded. "Of course, there are other ingredients, such as fruits, vegetables, eggs– oh quite a variety. No doubt you'll have a preference once we're served."

"Your dumplings are ready, Shifu, as are those for your guests!"

The eccentric restaurateur, Hoi Cha, went to their table and personally served them their meals. While the Shifu thanked him, his guests were busy staring at the food, wondering what they were looking at. The food resembled a white flower yet to bloom, yet also colored a little brown to some peculiar liquid that at first they thought resembled mud, but then the scent reached their noses and they could definitely recognize the scent of food. Though there was one other thing they were confused about.

"What sticks for?" Beru held the ones she had in both hands to look at each stick individually while the boys were busy puzzling together what theirs were.

"These are chopsticks, fair Beru." the Shifu explained, already holding his chopsticks in hand before using them to get one of the dumplings, letting his guests watch as he put them to use. "Here, we do not eat with our hands, and thus we use utensils such as this."

"Sticks as utensils?" Oersted was trying to copy the way the Shifu's hands held his chopsticks, though he had trouble keeping them straight, "Seems rather… difficult."

At this, Pogo got an idea. He took one of his sticks, aimed for one of the dumplings, and then harshly stuck it into the dumpling. He expected it would work like handling a spear… but when he brought up the stick, the dumpling just slid off and broke apart into a mess of ingredients within. He moaned in disappointment at this.

Zaki, unable to resist a good tease, said, "Stick no good like spear, huh?"

"Stick too small to use good." Pogo grumbled.

"Hey brother! Our plates are empty! Let's have those seconds!"

At another table were four large men who looked similar to the restaurateur, but all appeared notably different. One wore the same red tunic vest as the chef, but his trousers were gray and his shoes were red. Another had paler skin, a blue tunic vest, green trousers and blue shoes. The third had tanner skin, a black tunic vest, blue trousers, and black shoes. The fourth had similar skin to the first, a yellow tunic vest, magenta trousers, and yellow shoes. One thing they all had in common was a notable stitched scar over their stomachs.

"You'll be patient like all the others, Tong Cha!" Hoi called over from the kitchen. "You're not the only customers here!"

"Another set of brothers who share appearances?" Oersted blinked at the sight of them. "Ist having just one sibling rare in these lands?"

"Doubtful." the Shifu shook his head. "Quite the coincidence, though. The Cha brothers have quite a reputation for enjoying their older brother's food the most out of everyone in Yunfa."

"Good. Brothers must help brothers." Zaki approved of this, also allowing his lizard friend to partake in one of his dumplings.

"That they should." The knight concurred. Brothers-in-arms should support each other, no matter what.

So why was he not supported by the one who should have been the most open?

"So, have you heard of the plague going on at Wong Village?"

"Hm?" the Shifu heard this from the Cha brother's table, the pale-skinned one had spoken up.

"Really Sha Cha? First those brigands, now a plague?" the brother in black sighed. "I swear, that village has known nothing but terrible luck lately. At least the most we had to deal with was that fool thief who couldn't pay for his keep."

"Well, that's what happens when the young do nothing to aid the old, Nan Cha." The brother in yellow lectured. "Bad fortune comes from bad deeds."

"Don't you mean 'karma', Pei Cha?" Tong asked with a raised brow.

"They're practically the same word!"

"What 'play-guh'?" The green-haired lad asked Oersted.

"Plague. Whole group feel not so good." The former champion explained so he could understand. "Like whole tribe eat bad meat and tummies hurt, but worse."

The trio from prehistory all cringed at that. The thought of eating bad meat never crossed their minds, and the idea of it was just wretched.

"Hm… it is indeed concerning." Their host stroked his chin in thought. "I was planning on seeing how the people at the base of the mountain were doing lately. To think they are ill right now… it seems we must make for a short detour before we head there."

"A detour?" The knight echoed. "To whither, and for what?"

"There is a forest of bamboo to the northeast of Yunfa Market. Within it grows a unique herb known as 'nature's providence'." the Shifu explained. "When prepared well, it heals many ailments, be they minor or otherwise. It's fortunate that I know just where to pick them. And with our current numbers, dealing with the wild tigers will not be an issue."

"Heh. Tigers no trouble!" Pogo nodded, prideful. "Leave bad cats to Pogo!"

"Oooh, Pogo so brave~!"

Pogo then found himself hugged by Beru, and he was back to blushing beet red with a goofy smile on his face. Some other men in the restaurant couldn't help but look on with either envy or approval. Maybe a bit of both. Zaki and his lizard friend both rolled their eyes at this. Honestly, what person would get this silly over lovey-dovey stuff?

"If we art to lend those ailing people our aid, then to the bamboo forest and obtain those herbs we make haste." Oersted decided. "Letten us hurry with our meal and leave at once."

The knight then made to stab one dumpling with both of his chopsticks, trying to balance it with both. He then quickly took the dumpling in one bite before it could fall, admittedly embarrassing himself with the display, and then got to chewing on the dumpling before swallowing it and the contents. He blinked. He was trying to get it done in a rush, but… the dumpling tasted good.

"...now I wish I savored it before swallowing." The former hero admitted.

The Shifu simply chuckled at this, commenting, "That's Hoi's soup dumplings for you. Eat them too fast, and you'll regret not enjoying them like you should have."

Thus, after having their fill, and the prehistoric trio enjoying their dumplings as well, they got two more orders of soup dumplings to go and made their way out of Yunfa. There, they found Hong and Gori both waiting outside, and they updated the pair on the situation before giving them dumplings as well. Sure enough, the pair of heavy eaters dug into their food happily before following along. They trekked up north before heading west towards the bamboo forest, passing a sign warning them of bandits lurking within. As they entered the bamboo forest, however, Zaki couldn't help but feel something was wrong.

The Shifu recognized the tufts of nature's providence growing on the ground and so began picking them up as they went. Yet as they moved, Zaki's sharp yet scarred eye couldn't help but pick up some movement between the large green stalks as they moved. This presence did not fade as they also fought against yellow, black-striped tigers that made up for their lack of sabertooths with greater bodies. By the time he felt that presence move for the fourth time, he had his spear ready, looking for any sign of where the mysterious presence was hiding. After getting about three tufts of nature's providence alongside a white clover and birdseye speedwell, they were just about to head further into the forest, when…

"Not so fast!"

And then, appearing before them with amazing speed and standing in their way, was the mysterious presence Zaki had felt. However, he was not expecting the sight to be so… so…!

"Wise of an old man to seek out help as he moves in the woods…" the figure said to the Shifu, "but that does not mean they're powerful enough to protect you. Hand over your money. Quickly, or else you'll see how fast your bodyguards' heads will reach the ground!"

The apparent bandit was a slim woman with long brown hair in a large braid which reached her waist. She had dark eyes and a cross-shaped scar on her left cheek. She wore a pair of black shoes, red pants and a long pink robe held by a yellow cloth belt. She was also quite easy on the eyes with how her attire clung to her body. If anything, her body was close to resembling Beru's… if a little less busty.

Catching Pogo staring with a blush, Beru slapped him over the head and looked away in a huff. Gori sniggered again.

"Well, two bandits in one den?" The knight blinked. "What art the odds?"

"I think she actually means harm, though…" Hong pointed out, trying to ignore the clear reference to himself.

The Shifu spoke plainly, "I'm afraid I have nothing for you."

The cocky bandit didn't appreciate such a tone.

"What was that?" She seemed close to growling.

"I said, I have nothing to offer." The old master reiterated calmly. "Nothing to offer that you would appreciate, that is."

"That right? Don't think I'll go easy on you because of your age." The female bandit got into a stance. "In fact, I think your long life ends today!"

Now this brought back memories to Oersted. How often had he fought against Armstrong after the tournament? Several times? The man was quite persistent. Still, he had a feeling this would not be like with Armstrong.

"Thou shalt make no such movements against him." He told her firmly, ready to pull out Brion. "Not if I say anything about it."

"There is no need for you to fight my battles, Oersted."

And the knight was taken by surprise by the Shifu's words.

"But Shifu…" He tried to tell him. However…

"I can handle this myself." the elder told him before stepping forward to meet the bandit's challenge. "This will not take long."

"Hmph, and here I was calling you wise. A stupid decision to fight on your own, old man!" The cocky bandit made the first move!

She had her nails out like claws to scratch at the Shifu, sure that with her speed she'd easily deal with the old man in one swipe. However, to her shock, the Shifu easily sidestepped her attack and even hit her in the face as he kept his distance. The woman growled in agitation, then began leaping about to try and chase after the Shifu. Yet somehow, even with her speed amazing the party, the Shifu managed to read all of her moves and evaded her kicks, hitting her away with a kick of his own. With her stunned, the Shifu easily stepped forward, reared back his palms with a deep breath, and then knocked her down with a double-palm strike.

Just like that, she was easily defeated.

"Wow… elder REALLY good." Pogo was amazed by that show of skill from the old master.

"He didn't even need any help handling her…" Hong too was amazed by the Shifu's prowess.

"All by himself, he…!" Oersted too was in awe.

He had not seen such strength. Sure, they all saw his fighting style at work earlier, but to see it against an actual opponent… he had to have been a hero in the past and fought some wicked villain. He had to be! Why else would he have a notable repute among the people of Yunfa?

A groan brought their eyes towards the female bandit, who was just getting back up. She appeared exhausted from the battle she just went through. Not to mention she looked utterly flabbergasted by the fact she lost.

"How could this happen…" She confirmed it. "How could I lose to this fool four times my age?"

The Shifu simply chuckled in bemusement.

"The young would do well not to disrespect their elders, nor underestimate their skill." He told her. "I must say, I am impressed by your speed and agility. Might you consider abandoning this life of banditry and instead allow me to teach you my kung fu?"

"Give her a chance? Art thou certain, Shifu?" Oersted asked him. "Hong, I understand. He was desperate. But this one doth not seem to possess the intent of just nature."

"Piss off!" The woman shot at both of them, with the knight being taken aback at hearing the woman use such vulgar language.

She appeared as though she was going to say more, but then appeared thoughtful. She was hardly going to believe that someone like this old man could really offer her a better life than the one she had. Besides, the company he kept clearly had their own doubts about it too. But still, how did the old man even manage to beat her so easily? She was fast AND strong! She…!

"Although…" she amended herself, "it's going to eat at me not knowing how you won so easily…" She then stood up and pointed with determination at the Shifu, telling him, "Fine, I accept! Let's see what's so great about your kung fu! But don't misunderstand me! You're not my shifu, and I'm not your student! Once I've learned your secrets, I'll get my revenge on you!"

"...what a brazen woman…" The knight muttered under his breath.

But the Shifu simply chuckled and responded with, "You have a lot of spirit, young lady."

"Oh, I'm no lady!" The woman then jabbed her thumb towards herself. "I'm Lei! Lei Kugo! And don't you forget it!"

"You may rest assured that I will not." He assured her. "It is a good, strong name, worthy of pride. But pride will lead you astray if you let it. As it did not so long ago."

The cocky bandit, Lei Kugo, grumbled at this. He just had to rub that in, didn't he?

"Hmph!" She hid her offense. "Quick with the retorts, aren't you? Lead on, then. We'll see if you're as good as you say!"

"But of course. For now, however, we must finish collecting nature's providence for the good people of Wong." the Shifu said, passing Lei by as he continued his search. He then paused and turned his head back to look at her, "Oh, and Lei. You need not be so angry. A smile would do a beautiful face like yours wonders."

She growled some more as the old man once again teased her. Honestly, this old man just talked too much, didn't he? As for the rest of the group, Beru was just making sure Pogo wasn't staring, Gori wasn't thinking too much, Hong was a little shy about being with another woman in the group, Oersted figured it would be best to keep an eye on Lei, given her attitude, and Zaki…

Oddly, Zaki just seemed to be frozen in place, his face an expression of starstruck awe. Even his lizard friend was trying to snap him out of his daze by flicking the warrior's face with its reptilian tongue. He stayed like that even as the Shifu collected what he said was the last of the nature's providence they could find and need for their trip to Wong. With their collection done, the party began making their way out of the bamboo forest. However, Oersted finally noticed that Zaki was not following and went back to retrieve him.

"Zaki, what matter?" the knight asked the long-haired caveman. "We going Wong now."

"…l…"

Something finally escaped Zaki's lips.

"L…"

Something slightly above a whisper, yet still hard to make out.

"L–!"

Wait, this was starting to look familiar–

"LOOOOOOOVE!"

—-

One of the guards to the north of the bamboo forest heard a loud sound and watched as many birds flew into the sky all at once.

"What's all that noise out there for?" One of them asked.

"Ignore it. The tigers are probably fighting over some fool traveler again." His partner told him.

—-

Well, after THAT surprising incident, Oersted managed to bring Zaki back to the group, and the chief of the Kuu tribe had made sure to stay close to Lei, much to her confusion and discomfort. The hero honestly did not ever think Zaki himself could fall in love, much less with the woman they just encountered and openly promised she would get revenge the minute she learned all she could from the Shifu. Then again, who was he to judge on the likes of love? Pogo and Beru were romantically involved with each other even though Pogo was more than likely younger than her. He was in love with a princess who killed herself to spit upon his efforts in spite of all he did to save her FOR THE SAKE OF THAT INSIDIOUS WARLOCK–

"Ugh…" Oersted held his head, feeling a slight headache. "Where doth these thoughts come from…?"

"And here we are." the Shifu spoke, getting his attention. "Wong Village."

The former champion gazed upon the village practically at the mountain's base. Compared to Yunfa, this was hardly as populated or even as large. The people he could see were mostly the elderly with a few adults being middle-aged. Very few people of younger ages seemed to be around. As they approached the village, one of the villagers noticed them and moved towards them with a gentle raised arm.

"Be careful, travelers." He warned them. "A sickness is spreading here that's sure to give even you younger folks a terrible stomachache."

"Good man," the knight spoke up, "from whence did this affliction come and how did it begin?"

"We are not sure." the villager shook his head. "One moment, everything was fine as usual, but then, our elders started feeling sick, clutching their stomachs in pain. It's a complete disaster and has us all worried about what will happen to them all. Doesn't help that there are suspicious folks hanging out near the wagon yard…"

Suspicious fellows? The former champion pondered on that bit of information. Perhaps they had something to do with the plague spreading around in Wong? Maybe even profit off the suffering of others. Considering the issues they had faced in Yunfa along with the event in the bamboo forest, Oersted had the feeling banditry was an issue in this part of the world.

"We'd best get to treating the ill." the Shifu stated. "Once that's done, we shall get about finishing our errands before heading back home."

That was true, healing the sick came first. So with that, the group began moving around Wong Village, tending to anyone who appeared like they were in pain. Quite easy to tell when they were groaning and holding their stomachs. Fortunately, one application of that nature's providence healed them up nicely. Oersted was honestly amazed. It had similar effects to the balm grass back in Lucrece.

It was just a shame this herb appeared to be in finite supply and was found in dangerous places. That, and it appeared one of those they thought were sick was actually just suffering from hunger and as such the poor lady needed just some food in her stomach to feel better. This left them with just one nature's providence left. And fortunately for them, it appeared there was only one ill elder left. A kindly old woman in red robes and her white hair done in a bun.

"Ugh… Ugh…" She moaned.

"Here. This should help you." The Shifu gently gave the woman the healing herb.

The old woman saw the herb in his hand and then took it before softly chewing on it before swallowing it down. At first, it seemed as though she was registering the taste. But then she blinked in surprise and started getting herself back up to her proper height, feeling less pain. She even momentarily patted her stomach. No pain there either.

"How strange… I'm feeling better already…" she muttered before looking up to the one who helped her. Then she seemed to slowly recognize him. "Wait, aren't you…"

And just then, to the group's surprise, someone rushed by, bumping into the Shifu. They looked to the bumper, who turned back and was bowing his head to them. A small, scruffy, dirty boy with a rather grimey face. He wore a purple bandana over short, brown hair, a shirt that was open down to the stomach on the top, a pair of tan pants with stains on them by the knees, and a pair of traditional Chinese shoes. He seemed to be in a rush.

"Sorry about that!" The nervous youth apologized before running along down the village.

"That was… abrupt." Hong commented, though Lei looked on with suspicion in her eyes.

"I thought so." the old woman smiled as the Shifu casually walked back to her. "You're the shifu I've heard so much about. You have my thanks. And my apologies. That was my grandson Yun who just ran through."

"Your grandson, you say?" the Shifu asked at that.

"He's a kind and considerate boy, usually." the grandmother said. But then she looked melancholy as she recounted, "These days, though... He's not quite himself. Maybe it's just a phase. He lost his parents when he was young, and while I did my best, there's no making up for that…"

"Nonsense, fair lady." Oersted shook his head. "Thou art strong to have raised a child by yourself and at your age. Any grandchild would recognize such."

"Well said, Oersted." the Shifu approved of that. "Anyhow we are glad to see you are well, miss…"

"Jou. It's Ming Jou. Thank you once again. And please, if you see Yun, do tell him things will be alright." She requested.

With that, the party was basically set to leave the village. However…

"You know he pickpocketed you, right, old man?" Lei commented once they were out of earshot of the grandmother, though surprising Oersted.

"He what?" The knight couldn't believe this. Seriously? Three instances of banditry they encounter, and in just one day?

"Lei is correct, I'm afraid." The Shifu didn't seem bothered by it, however, even as he patted his pants. "It appears what little money I've left was swiftly taken by the lad once he passed by."

"Ugh, such an amateur trick." the cocky former bandit shook her head, with Zaki basically nodding at what she was saying. "Didn't even have the pride to face us head on for a proper robbery."

"I'm not certain you can really call something like robbery 'proper'." remarked the voracious former thief.

"What pick-pock-it?" Pogo didn't understand the word.

Oersted replied and so simplified for the prehistoric crowd, "Thief steal food when Pogo not looking."

"Oh." Pogo blinked. "...Pogo knock meat thief on head!"

"No, no! None of that!" Oersted quickly calmed Pogo down. "Boy not really take meat. Just example."

"Oh…" He calmed down, thankfully. "Pogo still want knock thief head."

The knight sighed while Gori sniggered. There was just no stopping Pogo from acting on his feelings. But still, this was a concern. They had to get the Shifu's money back and steer Yun back from a path which was sure to disappoint his grandmother. So, they followed the cobblestone path down through the village where they had seen Yun run. They could see the wagon yard the villager before had mentioned, but the way inside was blocked by a shirtless, muscular thug with brown hair done up in a top-knot that extended down to the back of his neck, wearing purple trousers tied up by an orange cloth for a belt and yellow shoes.

"Those must be the suspicious people that man mentioned before…" Hong supposed.

"And there pick-pock-it!" Beru definitely recognized Yun over there as well.

"Indeed. In great danger he got himself into, it appears." Oersted got ready to move in. "We should rescue him."

"Wait."

The fallen hero paused in confusion at the Shifu's word. Just what did he mean?

"Let us watch and see." was all the martial arts master answered with.

With no way to convince their host otherwise, the former champion decided to see what the Shifu believed they would see. There, in that yard, Yun stood with his head hung low before three other thuggish men. Two of them looked awfully similar to the guard, to which the time-traveling hero hoped this wasn't yet another case of twins, triplets, quadruplets or more. But then there was their apparent leader standing above Yun like a towering wall. Seemingly similar to the others, but his hair was black, his trousers were tan, and he went barefoot.

"Well? Don't keep me waiting now!" His voice seemed to match his countenance. Arrogant and cruel. A contemptuous ruffian in every sense of the description.

"Okay…" The nervous youth held his hand out and let the money fall into the thug's expectant hand.

However, as the thug looked at the money in hand, it didn't take long for him to show his dissatisfaction, "No, no, this won't do at all!" He gave an angry look at the boy who flinched at the sound of his voice. "You need to learn how to pick your targets better. Now get back out there and try harder!"

Oersted wanted so very hard to teach this brute some manners. His ideals of a hero demanded that he charge in and take their evil down where it stood. But as much as he wanted to, he figured that the Shifu wouldn't have him just stand by and watch without good reason. Yet, a poor boy was being threatened into pickpocketing people by a thoughtless rogue! What more was there to see?

The thug, noticing the boy failing to respond or move as he should, growled, "Don't just stand there! Get going!"

Why dost thou listen to the whims of a senile old fossil? You see it for yourself. He is letting evil go unpunished right before thine eyes! Let thy hatred of their vile ways charge you forth! Spill their tainted blood and cleanse the world of their existence! LET THEM KNOW OF O–

"...No. I won't."

Oersted's growing negative thoughts were halted by hearing the boy finally speak.

"What was that?" The thug seethed.

"I did what you told me to because I was too scared to refuse…" the boy stepped back, shaking his head. "But enough is enough! I told myself it was for her. Too sick to work now, even…" He then looked up, his eyes open. Though he still looked fearful, there was still something in them that showed he would not bend so easily, "But these poor people, they're someone else's elders! I can't keep stealing from them!"

It was then that the former champion had seen why the Shifu wanted him to watch before he took action. He wished to see if the lad could stand for himself in the midst of such wicked people trying to force him to their level. Even as he still looked afraid, remembering his grandmother, the lad remained pure of heart and strong of virtue. There was no danger of him ever going down a path of villainy. Never by his own hand.

"I'll give you a chance to apologize for your disrespect…" the contemptuous ruffian clenched his fists, angered by such defiance.

"You're... you're not worthy of respect!" The youth spoke out, unwilling to stand back. "I'll not live my life as a whipped dog for a bastard like you!"

"Oh, but you will." The thug stomped towards him. "You will learn to accept your place in this world. Now apologize, before I lose my temper!"

"No!" Again, the lad stood fearful, yet defiant.

The brute growled as he and his men got ready to charge at him, "Ungrateful whelp!"

The former hero made ready to finally get into action. This was enough watching. He turned to tell the Shifu he was moving in… but the Shifu was missing? Where did he go? The others looked just as confused as he was.

"Walk away, old man, if you value what little life you've got left." They then saw the Shifu had already moved ahead of them, moving towards the guard.

"Pardon me." Was all he said…

Right before suddenly moving swiftly past the guard and reappearing in the wagon yard. Even the guard looked surprised by this and was stunned to see the old man having made it inside. His appearance had also surprised the ruffian's lackeys and the boy himself. The lad recognized him as the old man he pickpocketed before. The brute, on the other hand, didn't know who he was looking at now.

"You should not be here, old man." He told him rudely. "What do you want?"

"Tell me," the Shifu was not bothered. "Do you believe yourself stronger than this boy?"

The ruffian leader scoffed while his minions laughed, saying, "Hah! A stupid question."

"And yet, in truth, you and your associates are rather weaker."

The thugs all growled, offended by such a notion.

"Are you blind?" the ruffian leader began flexing his muscles. "Look at me, the great Tiger King, Sun Tzu Wang, and tell me I am not a thousand times the man he will ever be!"

"I do not deny that you have an impressive physique…" The Shifu admitted, continuing, "However, true strength is not derived from the body alone. And that is why I believe this boy to have greater potential than all of you combined."

The lad could not speak. He was just too busy gazing upon this seemingly nondescript old man standing against these thugs without any fear. Not like himself. And… did he really think he had potential? Truly?

"Oh really!?" the so-called Tiger King chuckled dismissively. "I can't see it!"

A boorish answer from a boorish man.

The Shifu no doubt recognized this and sighed, "Indeed, that much is plain."

Then, before their eyes, the Shifu practically disappeared before reappearing behind Sun Tzu Wang and his cronies. The guard immediately ran in to join his brothers-in-arms to go after the old man. However, just as quickly, the Shifu spun towards the ruffian leader and hit him in the gut with a forceful double-palm attack, making him skid backwards and knock the guard down on his back.

"True strength flows from the heart!" the Shifu still stood evenly as Sun Tzu Wang groaned, his lackeys standing in shock.

The Tiger King growled as he recovered his footing, uncaring that the boy stood back so as to avoid getting caught up in the battle. This old man DARED to lay a hand upon him? The great Sun Tzu Wang? This offense would not go unpunished, he decided that day. The whelp would pay later.

"You'll be weeping blood when I'm through with you." he declared.

He and his hot-headed lackeys went to charge at the old man all at the same time. Surely, not even he with his peculiar tricks could manage to escape all three of them from their angles. The Shifu, however, was not bothered. He simply spun gracefully in place with a kick and then a subtle movement of his arms and elbows. This confused the thugs. What was that meant to accomplish?

And just then, they felt it. A rush of blows hitting their bodies and knocking them back. The lackeys were down, but Sun Tzu Wang still stood, albeit stunned from what just happened.

"How'd you do that!?" the Tiger King demanded to know.

"The wise fox holds many secrets." The Shifu replied. "It's a shame you do not hold any. Your strength is great, but your movements are slow, easy to predict. You cannot expect to win this battle."

Again, the contemptuous ruffian seethed.

"You think you're winning, do you?" He then charged towards the elder. "Come here!"

"No. I already have." The Shifu could clearly see this coming. "The monkey's speed is mine."

And then he threw a playful punch right in the charging Sun Tzu Wang's face, easily moving back thanks to the force of the punch combined with the thug's own charge. This also left the ruffian staggering back before falling to his knees in defeat. The boy, the former thieves, and the party out of time all stared in awe at such a battle. Was there any way this old man wouldn't impress?

"That's all, then?" he thus asked, looking upon the brutes as the Tiger King's lackeys started getting back up with their leader.

"I don't believe it…" Sun Tzu Wang muttered in his shock. "Who is this old man?"

One of his minions finally got a good look at the old man and gasped with realization evident on his face.

"Wait! I recognize him!" He stood up quickly.

His counterpart did the same, running up to get a closer look.

"Me too!" He exclaimed. "He… he knows kung fu… That's the Earthen Heart! He's the Xin Shan Quan Shifu!"

And that was when even Sun Tzu Wang knew he was out of his league. He had heard much about the Shifu. A powerful old man whom everyone from Wong to Yunfa praised to the heavens and the earth. He just thought they were all tales to build up a frail legend. But to think it was all true…!

"He… Him!?" He started sweating bullets as he looked from his men to the Shifu, none of his prior ego and confidence present. "I… Forgive me, Shifu! Forgive me!"

And with that, the so-called Tiger King practically ran off out of town with his tail between his legs, dropping the money he had taken behind. His cowardice even dragged along the guard with him. Everyone else was busy staring at this scene. The two remaining lackeys had to take a minute to recognize they were left behind as well. They called for their 'brother' and so began running after him as well, not wanting to be left with the old man who so easily beat them like they were nothing.

Oersted couldn't help but watch in satisfaction.

"Served those brigands right." He stated and hoped they didn't have to deal with the likes of them again after that display.

"Wow. Elder REALLY strong." The young caveman blinked. "Pogo think elder more strong than Oji."

But he could see their business was not yet done. With the fight over, the lad got out of cover and stood in awe. An awe that lasted long enough once he saw the Shifu walk towards him. Surely to deal with him next for what he did. He looked down, unable to face him…

"You should be proud, young man." He was surprised to not hear condemnation.

"But…" He just didn't get it. "How can you say that? I stole your money…"

He then gasped in realization at the fact.

"Ah! Your money…" He quickly picked up all the fallen money on the ground and then held it out for the Shifu to take. "Here, take it!"

With an accepting nod as he pocketed his returned money, the old master told him, "Thank you. Remember the strength of spirit you found today."

The Shifu then began walking past the boy to return to his guests and his two prospective pupils. Oersted was somewhat surprised. He actually began to expect that this would lead to their host having found yet another pupil after an encounter with thieves. Pleasantly surprising to be wrong once. To think, he was actually getting a bit paranoid with all the coincidences happening thus far.

"Wait, wait!"

The boy's voice made them stop, seeing him rush up after the Shifu who raised a brow at this.

"Please accept me as your disciple!" He requested wholeheartedly.

"Wow, someone actually wants to be the old man's pupil?" Lei snarked. "What are the odds?"

"Actually, I wanted to be the Shifu's student, too." Hong pointed out to her. "Is it really that surprising?"

"Hong, no offense meant," Oersted felt the need to clarify, "but thou becamest his pupil once offered food and shelter as recompense."

"T-True, but.." Hong, a former food thief, looked down sheepishly. Not helping was Gori snickering once more.

"I'm afraid I must decline." However, to hear the Shifu actually reject the opportunity to have yet another student was more surprising. "Tell me. Do you wish to learn kung fu to exact revenge on those brigands?"

"Uh… Well…" the boy looked nervous about answering.

"Fear not," the master assured him, "for you have already more than defeated them…"

"But... Shifu!"

Then the boy actually got down on his hands and knees!

"Please! Please allow me to be your disciple! Please! I implore you!" He pleaded to the Shifu.

The former hero could honestly not believe it. The young lad truly did want to learn from the Shifu in spite of how fearful he was. He was a kind and earnest lad, but also not the strongest in body. He could honestly have lived a peaceful life now with those brigands being gone from the village. And yet… he wanted to learn from the master.

He could not help but feel nostalgic. Those days when he wanted to become a knight. A hero of Lucrece. Both he and… him. At least, he had hoped.

The Shifu stared down at the youth, seeing his earnestness for himself. Well, he still had his doubts, but…

"Well, if you insist…" he relented.

The lad looked up from his position, some tears in the corners of his eyes, "Shifu!"

"You showed bravery in the face of overwhelming odds. I am sure you would grow much stronger whether I were to train you or not." He knelt down to place a hand on the boy's shoulder. "For the power you seek is beyond no one. Be they man or woman, old or young... It matters not. For it is the will to improve, to be better. Therein lies true strength."

"I… I see!" The boy nodded as he got back up on his feet.

The knight was surprised to hear that from the Shifu. The power the lad sought was truly beyond no one's ability? It made sense to hear that. Of course he was correct, but… why did the fallen hero just feel so stunned from the idea? And why did it feel… difficult to accept for himself?

"I do not believe you have told me your name." The Shifu said to the lad.

"I'm Yun. Yun Jou." the nervous youth, Yun Jou, answered with an ecstatic smile. "You won't regret this decision, Shifu! I promise you!"

With that, the Shifu had three pupils. To think he would get three in one day. And all of them were involved in some form of thievery at one point. One who felt he had no choice but to steal in order to feed himself, another intentionally trying to rob people for herself, and the other practically forced into it. All three having less than ideal situations, but now brought together under the tutelage of an old master seeking to preserve his kung fu.

Just what kind of rulership was happening in this land to lead people to resort to banditry to make a living, for good or ill?

"Well... It looks as though I found my three disciples…" the Shifu said with a small smile on his face. "I'm afraid my school has seen better days, but it will suffice. Come, let us go and begin your training at once."

"T-Three?" Yun looked to Oersted, Pogo, Beru, Zaki, and Gori. "Aren't they your pupils, too?"

"Nay. The Shifu's guests are all we art." Oersted answered. "We are far from home, and so he's allowing us to live in his domicile until we are able to move forward."

"Hmph. Seems the old man's a fan of taking in strays, then." Lei clicked her tongue at this.

"Hopefully there will be enough food for us all when we get there…" Hong looked at his stomach, already hungry.

So the party, now joined by one more student for the Shifu, made their way back towards his cottage in the mountain. However, as they made their way along through the village, with Yun bidding farewell to his grandmother, the knight was trapped in his thoughts. For a while, he had been feeling these overly spiteful thoughts at different instances. They didn't simply start once he was in this time either. Ever since he began his journey in prehistory, he could feel them from as grand as a nightmare to even something like small deceptions in his vision. Perhaps what had happened to him back in Lucrece had scarred him even more than he thought it did.

Yet he knew that this burden was his own to shoulder and his alone. His companions already had enough on their plates. His friends from the past had to get back to their home and live the peaceful lives they were meant to have. The Shifu had his students to train and didn't really need him and the others to be burdens upon him. As soon as he figured out just where he went wrong with casting that spell, he could have everything fixed.

But just then, he felt something bump into his shoulder with a gasp and a tumble to the ground. The champion turned fast towards the sound and saw none other than a woman laying on the cobblestone. Oh dear! He cursed himself for getting distracted by his own thoughts.

"I'm terribly sorry! I didst not see thee!" Oersted quickly apologized and went to help her up. "Pardon mine ignorance! Art thou alright?"

"I'm quite alright. Not a scratch on me." The woman took his hand as she looked up to face him. "Honestly, you hardly did anything to– oh?"

And that was when his eyes met hers. Eyes of a most radiant blue. Radiant violet hair done in a long and braided ponytail with a golden bangle near the bottom. Beauty unparalleled. His heart began to pound heavily in his chest.

"In you alone I place my faith."

Once more, he could see his beloved princess for but a moment. However, he also saw the differences. The ponytail being an example. However, the outfit too was plenty different from the modesty of the fairest woman in all of Lucrece. Yet… none of it put him off.

A Chinese qipao that hugged her bountiful and blessed body, colored red with yellow patterns. Red slippers. Finely painted nails. Gold, ovular earrings hanging from her ears. Red lips…

Oersted was stricken silent as he helped her to her feet, and she by him. Of course, it didn't last long, as she was the first to break the spell by clearing her throat. The former champion snapped out of it as well before sheepishly dusting any dust she may have gotten on her person.

"A-Again, my sincerest apologies. Mine thoughts were elsewhere." He apologized to her again, trying to hide the fact that he was blushing. "My moniker is Oersted."

"Oersted?" She tested the name on her tongue. "Hmmm… It does not sound like a local name. Are you new here to China?"

"I am, aye." He nodded. "Myself and my friends both. Fortunately, these lands haven't been… too unkind to us."

"A pleasant thing to hear." She said. "My sisters and I came to this village just recently. We're hoping to find a decent place to set up our act before moving on to Yunfa."

"Your 'act'?" The fallen hero asked at that part. "Then thou art an entertainer?"

"Indeed." She confirmed, a confident smile on her face. "We sisters three have quite the reputation across the land. Perhaps you would like to see our show once it begins?"

"I doth not see any harm in accepting." He said, a smile growing on his face as well. Then he realized a blunder and mentally facepalmed before asking, "Oh, wherefore art my manners? Madam, what is thy name?"

The woman simply giggled a bit before winking at him.

"My name is Chan."

—-

The Wan Tan Na Bei style of kung fu was once renowned as one of the strongest martial arts in all of China. From east to west, many people wanted to learn from its masters. The prodigious Wan Tan Na Bei family, recognized by the emperor himself for their undying loyalty and unyielding courage in the face of threats. Their legacy was a long and honorable one, with many of the family passing it on to the next of kin and the next after them. It seemed as though nothing could topple the Wan Tan Na Bei art from their throne in the mountains.

…At least, not until that fateful night. A storm was raging and lightning struck from the sky. As if that was not enough of an omen, the great temple, the dojo of the Wan Tan Na Bei, was under siege by ruthless warriors. Many of the school's students lost their lives brutally. The walls, the floors, and even the gardens were stained with blood.

It all came to a head within the master's own quarters. The master, Na Bei, a man of great character and strength, stood amidst the bodies of a number of intruders looking to claim his life. But there were still more seeking to end him. Try as they might, they all had failed. None could stand against the master.

But then one intruder stepped forward, with all the others standing by to allow him passage. Na Bei recognized him immediately. How could he not? A young man with short, black, slicked back hair, a black and white kung fu outfit with a red circle in the middle with the image of a dragon, a yellow belt tied around his waist, black kung fu shoes, and bandages that went from his feet to his calves. But most of all, he recognized the eyes. The eyes of a man who had lost his very soul.

"Long has it been since you had last shown yourself." Na Bei spoke to him. "I wish this reunion would have brought joy to my heart… but I never wished for it to be like this. Have you truly changed so much in such little time?"

"After all I have seen and experienced, after learning the truth of this world, is it really shocking that events would lead to this?" The young man asked back.

"You no longer wear the garments of the school that taught you peace and serenity." Na Bei noted about him. "They had given you much during your time among them, and you had given them the same in turn. Yet…"

"Yet the past is irrelevant." The youth cut the master of Wan Tan Na Bei off. "As things are now, nothing will change."

"True change cannot be brought about through contemptible means." Na Bei stated. "Violence can only bring more hatred. A cycle without end."

"No." The youth shook his head. "Inaction brings only stagnation. Pacifism brings only weakness. If change is needed to happen, then strength must be utilized to do so. Not pretty words and self-indulgent praises."

"And the slaughter taking place here. You would call this necessary?"

"Save your self-righteous excuses. Na Bei, you are a sycophant to those who believe power comes from birthright. Even your 'legacy' is no more than egotistical nepotism. Though your strength is true, never had you passed it to your students, but only to your direct lineage. You are no different from those you once saw as parasites bleeding people dry."

Na Bei sighed. This young man once showed great promise. But after what had happened… no, he was no longer that same student from before. Now, he was just another brute using his skills for selfish means. Such a shame.

Getting into a fighting stance, the master stated, "If you truly desire to prove your point to me through battle, then perhaps we should dispense with this reunion and close our chapter in this tale of our kung fu. However, surely you remember that the Wan Tan Na Bei's ultimate technique was never surpassed, even by the techniques trained by the Xin Shan Quan's founder?"

But in response, the youth laughed. Was he truly so arrogant as to think that he could surpass the Wan Tan Na Bei's greatest secret? But just then, Na Bei saw his fist engulfed in a burning aura of hot white chi. He was shocked. Had the young man gotten stronger without the proper tutelage of a school?

"Contrary to what you think, Na Bei," the youth said, with all the brutes around him smirking cruelly, "your technique was never invincible. Just never properly used on a strong opponent. I, on the other hand, have finally learned and perfected my former school's ultimate move."

Na Bei actually gasped. It couldn't be…!

"Not… Kuang Zhuan Yan Wu… the Mad Dragon's Vengeance…!" He breathed.

It would be his last.

"Yes…!" And then, the youth struck him down.

…Disappointing.

For all his moral high-posturing, he was no less weaker than all the others before him. Unworthy to lead a proper school of strong warriors. Na Bei was an old fool, weakened by sentimentality and status. The world was better off without him and his platitudes. Now he was just another corpse with his blood staining the floor.

"Hey, master…" one of his men approached him. "With Na Bei dead, what do we do about his brat? Should we kill him too? We already ended the wench that bore the boy before she could run."

"Cast him out." The youth replied with the order. "He is less than worthy of being granted death by our hands, and there is no school that will take a whelp of his stature. He will learn the way of this world on his own, or he will die on his own. It makes no difference."

"Understood, sir!" the brute nodded before heading off.

But then, an older minion walked up to him and asked, "Well now, seeing as the Wan Tan Na Bei school is no more, what shall we do with this place? It seems a waste to just let this majesty all rot by the wayside."

"We won't."

The youth began walking towards the end of the hall, uncaringly stepping over Na Bei's dead body as he did. At the end, he spotted his destination. An ornate chair sitting before a large, grand gong. He then sat down upon the seat, making himself comfortable as he took in the room around him and his fellow trespassers.

"This temple is now ours." He declared. "Here, we shall teach the one true and honest kung fu in all of China. All who value strength shall come here and learn, or be shown as weak pretenders. Here, we shall be the instruments to bring about true change. And thus, I do declare our school's name…"

His smirk had become a maniacal smile of triumph. He raised his arms up as he encouraged his already cheering followers to raise theirs as well. This night was a new beginning. A beginning of change that will one day spread over all of China. And he would be its head.

"The Yi Po Men," he finished, "the Indomitable Fist!"

With this school, he will cleanse all of China of the parasites known as the weak. And then, one day… the world will follow.

—-

Finally getting to chapters that are easier to write in this story! Man, sorry to knock on the Prehistory chapters, but having to write in broken English most of the time while also writing more for description was definitely a slow-goer. Fortunately, these chapters should be a whole lot easier to do moving forward. Anyway, see you next time, for next we get into the lovely world of training montages! …And character development on Oersted's part.

But that'll be until after I do the next chapter in my other story, so please try and be patient.

Thanks to Akito the Boxer for beta-reading this chapter and to The Lord of Pages for providing good descriptions for clothing since he's quite the fashion expert.