"You were certainly taken by that woman there in Wong, weren't you, Oersted?"
"Come now, Shifu, twas but a conversation minor! Hardly anything of significance."
Oersted blushed at the Shifu's teasing. His encounter with Chan had been the topic of conversation once their business in Wong was finished and they headed back towards the mountain. And not just the Shifu either. His companions from prehistory and even Lei saw fit to amuse themselves at his expense. How embarrassed the knight felt that day.
"Then why Ors-ted give lady sparkly eyes?" Pogo teased. "Ors-ted find his Beru?"
"Who knew someone so prim and proper would get so flustered over one girl." Lei's smirk was not just present, but mocking. "How's it feel to be so smitten like a pup, 'oh righteous one'?"
"No shame, Ors-ted." Zaki's own grin was small, but it was clear he took enjoyment of this in his own way. Probably to also match with Lei. "Woman pretty. No surprise Ors-ted stare."
"Ors-ted also good-looking." Beru said, which made Pogo freeze. "Lady probably like him, too."
"Truly I tell thee, tis not like that!" Oersted again refuted.
Sadly for him, Gori's sniggering meant they weren't going to let up soon.
"Is having admiration for a girl's appearance really worthy of teasing?" Hong asked Yun as they walked along.
"I would not know." Yun sheepishly admitted. "I never had experience with the fairer half."
"Neither have I."
"Alright now, that's enough," the Shifu seemed to have enough fun and announced to the group as they made it to his cottage. "We're finally here."
The elder opened the door and so walked inside with everyone else following suit. Oersted and the four from prehistory were already familiar with the domicile, so they situated themselves to the side of the room as the Shifu stood ahead of his three students. The three, all the while, were looking around at the humble school. Yun was fascinated, Lei was rather unimpressed, and Hong… was focused on his stomach.
"I bid you welcome to my school," the Shifu told his students. "Where you will learn the Earthen Heart."
Lei scoffed at the room around her, commenting, "You weren't kidding when you said it'd seen better days…"
"So this is where I'll learn kung fu…" Yun breathed, truly marveling at everything.
Hong… "But first we eat, yes?" he asked, hopeful and hungry. "We cannot train if we do not eat, surely. At least a little, yes?"
Oersted tried to resist the urge to facepalm. He really did. Unfortunately, he failed, and thus his hand met his face with a hearty smack. Those dumplings surely should have satiated him. Did Hong's hunger have any endpoint at all?
Fortunately for the knight's sanity, the Shifu was firm and said, "No. We must begin training immediately."
This got the students' attention for sure as they all looked towards their teacher with a mix of reactions. Anticipation from Lei. Surprise from Yun. Dismay from Hong. While the cavepeople, along with the ape, sat down to watch, Oersted simply nodded in agreement with the Shifu's decision. There was no time to waste.
"But Shifu!" Hong pleaded, most obviously from the bottom of his stomach.
"This place was further up the mountain than I expected." Yun spoke somewhat nervously. "Maybe we should rest a bit?"
Lei, on the other hand, rolled her eyes at her fellow students, "Listen to yourselves!" She shook her head with derision. "Whimpering children!"
Zaki nodded in agreement. Both because it was Lei who said that and that he believed the two should have been prepared for this since both made the choice to train under the old man. Lei, all the while, looked back to the Shifu with a determined look in her eyes. She was sure she could get the better of him this time after watching the way he fought. He was definitely quick, but he no doubt wouldn't take her by surprise this time.
"Bring it on, old man!" she challenged the Shifu. "I'm ready!"
An approving nod, the Shifu stated to his students, "We shall begin by assessing your present strength and skill."
Stepping forth, his female student declared, "I'll go first!"
"As you wish, Lei," the teacher stepped forth with one hand motioning for her to approach him before going into a stance. "Now, come at me with all your might!"
"You asked for it!"
Thus, Lei charged. Oersted and the others watched this rematch closely. Lei tried getting in close with a swift kick. However, the Shifu quickly moved his head from the kick's path, and thus retaliated with a forceful push from his palms and knuckles to her stomach, knocking her back and the wind out of her form. However, Lei wasn't going to go down so easily. She then started moving with serpentine reflexes around the Shifu to find a good spot to hold him down. However, by the time she believed she thought she had him bound, the old man surprised her again by easily slipping out of her grasp.
"What was that?!" She exclaimed in shock, but that just let down her guard.
"Step lightly," the teacher moved in and hit her with an upward kick to the chin, finishing with a calm if playful tone, "as a chipmunk."
Lei ended up stumbling back before falling to the floor, unable to continue fighting.
"Ugh, not again…" She cursed her luck, no closer to beating the Shifu than she was before.
The Shifu, clearly having yet to break a sweat while Zaki checked up on Lei with concern, asked the other two students, "Who is next?"
Yun was busy shivering upon seeing that fight. He had seen the Shifu's might before, but to see more of it in action was still something to behold. Hong, all the while, stared at Lei's fallen form. Unlike Yun, however, Hong didn't seem that frightened with the Shifu's prowess. No, his mind was on one thing. And considering his chances against his host…
"I am!" He stepped forward. "The sooner I fight, the sooner I eat, yes?"
The Shifu chuckled in bemusement over this question, and so confirmed, "When today's training is done, you may eat to your heart's content."
With an eager smile on his face, the rotund student exclaimed, "Sounds good to me!"
Oersted shook his head, wondering if he was going to get used to Hong's sole motivation being food, but he refocused himself as he watched him charge towards the Shifu next. Hong used his surprising speed to catch up to the Shifu, trying to land hits on the elder as he began dodging. At one point, the voracious former thief began spinning himself so fast to the point that once he lashed out one more punch, the knight was shocked to see it actually hit the elderly one, who managed to block it. The Shifu seemed to approve of this speed, but then went back on the attack by playfully punching Hong and moving backward. However, owing to his form, the biggest student did not immediately fall backward.
Once more, Hong moved to keep up with the Shifu. Recognizing this particular game of catch-up, the teacher readied the same move he used on Lei. In turn, the rotund student moved out of its potential direction and then began spinning around fast. In fact, he spun so fast that the air around him began to flow faster and sharper with him, and that too shockingly managed to hit the Shifu. At this, Hong was glad to have made progress… but then, when he finished spinning, he ended up stumbling and fell to his knees, balance lost.
And that was all the Shifu needed. A simple double-palm thrust, the same he used on Lei, sent Hong stumbling back.
Breathing heavily, exhausted and out of breath, he requested, "No more…"
He then spun about, dizzy from everything, and fell to the ground as well, following Lei in defeat. Oersted had to admit that Hong was pretty impressive, but was rather green when it came to a battle. Contrast that to Lei, who was clearly more experienced in battle but was more rash. No doubt the pair of them could easily work off of each other… if they got over their respective vices of pride and gluttony. That being said, one still remained: Yun, who was shaking where he stood after having seen his fellow students brought down.
"Well fought…" the Shifu then faced Yun, giving him a gentle expression. "Now, Yun. If you are afraid, you may leave. There is no disgrace."
"I… Uh…" The nervous youth hesitated.
He was starting to see what it would mean to learn kung fu. It was not merely about being able to fight others, nor simply how to avoid blows or misdirect them. It was knowing what move to use at what moment and using the necessary force to make them effective. It was more than about learning. It was about taking action when he should. Yun once more looked to Lei and Hong's exhausted forms on the floor, then to those who were watching. They were all strong (well, he was sure they were at any rate). And he…
"No." Yun refused to run. "I'll face you!"
Happy to hear that answer, the Shifu bade him, "Then come at me without hesitation! Without mercy!"
"Uh, okay…" Yun gulped, but still he followed through. "Haaa!"
Oersted watched Yun the most carefully. While Lei and Hong had come after the Shifu with some experience, Yun's movements were more desperate. A clear sign that he was the most unused to actual battle. This was most defined by the way he attacked. He only had the likes of a single, but passionate punch alongside a wild and flailing attempt at a kick. No special techniques or skills. Not much stamina either, it seemed, for it only took about a kick and a push to bring Yun to gasping for breath. To that end, he too fell alongside Lei and Hong. The Shifu was completely victorious yet again. The elder took in a breath before exhaling and relaxing his stance. He smiled as his guests approached him.
"You've all exceeded my expectations." He told his resting pupils. "I have to say… This is the most fun I've had in years."
And so, once they helped the pupils get into positions to rest comfortably, night eventually came upon the mountain. Those of prehistory have also taken to sleeping as well, more than familiar with sleeping on hard floors. The only ones who were still awake were the Shifu and Oersted, both having tea with each other once more in his personal chambers. The elder had a satisfied smile on his face as he sipped his tea. Tired, but satisfied.
"Hm…" The Shifu mused with a chuckle, "Who would've thought I'd find three promising disciples so quickly. I've not felt this tired in a long time. But... it is a welcome fatigue."
"Tis indeed an achievement," Oersted concurred with the Shifu, "one day to find students therein. Still, art thou certain of thine pupils' potential, Shifu? Lei didst swear vengeance upon thee, Hong is motivated by his appetite, and Yun… well, physical strength at present he lacks and at heart, tis still hesitant."
"Perhaps." the elder admitted. "However, Oersted, one's flaws and mistakes do not have to mark them for all their life. As long as they are given the chance to turn towards a better path and they are willing to take it, then I have faith that they will persevere."
"Faith…"
Oersted knew that word intimately well. It was intimately bound to his being, for good or ill. The people's faith in him, their champion. The princess' faith in him, her betrothed. The sage's faith in others' good will. His hero's faith in humanity restored.
THE WRETCHED WARLOCK'S faith a lie. The people's faith fickle. The princess' faith finite. The sage's faith for naught. His hero's faith mistakenly renewed.
"Ist faith truly important as many claimest?" The knight whispered to himself.
"You seem troubled, Oersted." The Shifu's astute observation shook Oersted. "Is there something you desire to say?"
"...'Tis nothing, Shifu." The knight shook his head. "Worry yourself not."
The Shifu's brow rose, having noted the warrior's hesitation before he answered. He was not sure that his leading guest was speaking honestly. However, before he could ask further, the two were distracted by the sound of his curtain door opening. They were surprised to see Hong stumbling into the room. Shouldn't he have been sleeping with the others?
Getting up, the Shifu approached his largest student, asking, "Hong? What's wrong?"
Hong didn't answer. He stumbled a bit further into the room… and then he crumpled to the floor! Oersted immediately got up to see if he needed aid. However, he stopped when both he and the elder heard the telltale sound of a growling stomach. Almost immediately, the knight had a feeling he knew what Hong's issue was. And it was an obvious one.
"So…" Hong groaned in his sleep, "So hungry… Food…"
The Shifu's eyes actually blinked while Oersted once more facepalmed, "Hong…" the teacher said, "Even after all that, you still have cravings?"
"I have half a mind to believe it a bottomless pit, his stomach." Oersted grumbled, shaking his head. "And Gori, I thought, was ravenous with his hunger."
He just hoped Hong was not going to eat the Shifu out of house and home.
The next day came and, after Hong got some food in his stomach yet again, the teacher, his guests, and his students went to the summit of Mount Aspiration. This would be their first official day of training following the afternoon before. Gori was busy munching on a peach he brought along from the cottage, Beru had Pogo in her lap and was running her hand through his hair with him looking content with her attention, and Zaki was busy gazing at Lei as her braid flowed in the breeze. Oersted, all the while, simply observed. After all, something about this seemed to dig more into his mind the more he did.
"Now then…" the Shifu spoke to his three disciples. "It is vital that we improve your stamina. The air here at the summit is very thin, so you'll have to expend twice as much effort during your training."
"Please," Lei remained as cocky as ever, "as if thinner air will hinder me! Bring it on!"
"I'm ready, Shifu!" Yun nodded, not planning on faltering now.
"I'll earn my meal today!" Hong was… determined, if nothing else.
"Show me what you can do." And so, the Shifu began sparring with his students.
Yun went first, surprisingly enough. Oersted could see his moves were not as desperate as they were the afternoon before. However, it was still clear that the youth was in need of improving his stamina, which the mountain's air had already effected. Sure enough, the spar ended quickly as the Shifu won with only that two-palmed thrust and a single kick. Still, Yun didn't seem too discouraged by the loss.
Hong went next. The voracious student had no hard time dealing with the thin air, the fallen champion had noticed. Perhaps his weight provided him with an advantage over Yun in this area of expertise. But still, even in spite of that benefit, Hong was no closer to beating the Shifu than his fellow student. To that end, it at least took a two-palmed thrust, a kick, AND a push to take the hefty pupil down. Though he began to pant from the effort, Hong too did not seem discouraged either.
Lastly came Lei. As expected, she went on the offensive, yet the former hero could tell that she actually decided on a more methodical approach this time. She made more use of her agility, trying to jump around the Shifu so he would be unable to get a proper read on where she would attack next. Surprisingly a clever idea. However, both the knight and the teacher could tell this was not the proper area for her to try it. The thin air actually made her more tired from moving so much, which left her open to the Shifu using the same moves that beat Yun and Hong.
With that done, the Shifu let out a breath and smiled at his students, stating, "I think that will do for today. Training in these conditions is tough, isn't it?"
Lei, hiding her tired state, chuckled and replied, "It was nothing…"
But hide it for long she could not, and so she collapsed from exhaustion.
"Lei!" Yun exclaimed in concern and rushed to her aid with Hong and Zaki. However…
"Get away from me!" She rejected their offered hands, trying to get up to her knees. "I don't need… your help…"
"But you do, Lei!" Hong insisted. "You're a lady, after all… And my mother always said I should treat ladies with respect. So let us help!"
"Me? A lady!?" She asked as the boys helped her to her feet.
"Mm-hm. Lei strong lady. But strong still need help." Zaki concurred. "It not wrong to ask."
Lei was silent for a moment or two. But then she began to snicker. Those snickers soon became laughter as she tried to hide her face from the others. It was a genuine laugh, not one of mockery or teasing. A side they had yet to see from the former bandit.
"Honestly…" She said amidst her snickering.
"...what wrong with being lady?" Beru blinked, not getting it.
"Pogo no know," her love shrugged.
"Now, let us return home," the Shifu told them. "We'll eat, rest, and then get to work on errands for the day."
The students, heeding their teacher's words, began moving back down the mountain with the prehistory group following suit. Oersted was going to do the same, but then…
"Oersted, if I might have a word?" the Shifu bade him.
The knight was surprised by the Shifu's request, but he turned back to face him. It was just them at the summit as the others continued downward. The breeze was gentle. The view of the mountain peaks surrounding them in the distance was still breathtaking. Serene and tranquil.
"What dost thou need of me, Shifu?" The knight asked.
"As you are aware, my students all had their own reasons for wishing to take up my art," the elder began. "Lei, so she claims, to avenge her loss. Yun so he could become stronger in body. Hong since he desires to eat in order to live. Not entirely the most selfless of reasons, but I can already see that they will move beyond their former selves."
"Less abrasive, Lei doth seemst, I admit," the knight said, looking towards where they went. "But that is owed to tutelage thine, Shifu. Without thy wisdom, they may not hath themselves uplifted."
"Hm… I suppose I should get straight to it," the teacher said after careful consideration of his guest's response. "Oersted, what is your desire?"
"Myself?" Oersted blinked. "What dost thou meanst by that?"
"What is it that you want in your life?" the Shifu clarified. "We already covered the motivations of my three pupils, but what about you? What is it that you want?"
The former champion just wondered where his host was going with this line of questioning. He was not one of the Shifu's students. He was just his guest. Someone taking advantage of his generosity until he figured out where the best way to go forward was. Not until he figured out how to return to Lucrece and change his fate.
But then again, where was the harm in answering?
"Mine desire," Oersted considered it, "was to become a hero."
"'Was'?" The elder echoed.
"Well, still it is, I suppose." He amended. Then he continued, "Not just a hero. Nay. But a hero much like mine own from days of youth. One of great honor and valor– chivalry's greatest pinnacle. A champion to all of the land and a defender of his home."
The Shifu patiently listened as Oersted took out Brion from its hilt, while the fallen hero gazed at his reflection in the blade.
"This blade, Brion, was once the hero Hasshe's," he explained, "from himself to me… passed down 'pon his death. Though he felt his people failed him once belief in him they threw away, still, help them in most dire times, he rose. To the end, a hero he remained. His example, I desire to follow, and become a hero like him."
"Hm… indeed, that is a noble idea." the Shifu could tell Oersted truly respected this Hasshe. "Now, what would you say a hero is?"
The displaced knight put Brion back in its hilt, confused by that next question.
"Someone whom truth, justice, and the code of chivalry he upholds," he answered. "The weak and defenseless to protect. Someone whom the people's belief gives strength, even if only the one holds the faith. Yet, without faith… a hero he cannot be. For faith in itself is an expectation. A standard most high. When faith is not met…"
Oersted's face fell, remembering truly painful accusations and words. From whom once he heard the cheers and adulations of the townsfolk, that fateful night became…
"It's him! The Lord of Dark!"
"Get inside, girl!"
"The demon comes! He stalks the town for blood!"
"Away from there!"
"I'll keep it shut!"
"Get back!"
"Please, please! Just leave!"
"It's looking through the panes!"
"Oh gods above, show us mercy! Spare us!"
"Away! Leave us, fiend!"
"Mother, make it stop!"
And perhaps the worst one of all, before the end…
"Why... Why now, husband. I waited. But you never came, husband."
…The former champion could only sigh despondently at the memories.
"Well, faith, 'tis a mistress most fickle, one might say." His voice was low, perhaps even saddened.
The Shifu remained silent, having listened to Oersted's answer. How it started with a basic idea, and how it descended into what he could feel was a peek into something that happened in the past. That was indeed something he should touch upon. However, there was still the matter of the original question.
"So, you say a hero needs others to believe in them to be one. To protect those who cannot stand for themselves." He spoke up. "Don't you think that should include the hero himself?"
The knight looked up, wiping his eyes of any trace of tears.
"I beg thy pardon?" He asked, not expecting such a question.
"Having faith from others is indeed a satisfying concept. To have many believe in you, validating." The Shifu once more began imparting his wisdom. "But if all a hero has is a people's belief and it is as fickle as you claim, then what else would the hero have left? Faith from others alone cannot sustain a person, much less a hero. Ergo, a remedy would be for the hero to have faith in himself as well. For as you described, a hero is but an ideal for men to strive towards. Just as your predecessor Hasshe did, and just as you desire to."
"Have faith… in myself?" The idea seemed alien to Oersted.
"It is part of being human to have faith both in others and yourself. Just as it is human to desire to help others in need." The teacher continued. "Not because it is something that a hero is expected to do, but because the act itself is the right thing to do to begin with."
The former champion blinked again. He had never thought of it in such a way before. There was more to being a hero than simply doing what one believed a hero should be? But doesn't doing the right thing make someone a hero in turn? And faith in himself… wouldn't that be too egotistical? He didn't get it.
The Shifu seemed to notice his confusion, and so he said, "Perhaps there is another way to explain. Oersted, I ask you to spar with me."
The request made the knight jump. Did he hear the elder correctly?
"But Shifu! I could not!" He refuted. "You are our host!"
"And as your host, I request you spar with me." the elder reiterated.
"But I hath only Brion at hand!" The fallen hero tried to justify. "I doth not desire to use it upon thee!"
But then the Shifu threw something to Oersted. The knight barely caught it, and to his surprise found it to be a wooden sword. Perfect for sparring. It seemed rather different from the ones he had in his days of training back in Lucrece. Perhaps it was modeled after a blade that came from these lands?
"Then perhaps this will put you at ease?" His host asked.
"Well… tis preferable at least, but still…" Even then, the former champion felt reluctant to fight against his host. "Art thou certain, Shifu? All respect due forthwith, but a trained warrior I am, unlike thine pupils."
"Yet you do not sound confident in your abilities." The teacher pointed out.
"That is not what I–"
"Now, show me what you, a hero, can do."
Oersted could see there was no changing the man's mind. No chance of avoiding this spar. So, gripping the wooden sword in hand, he readied himself in his stance. He told himself he would not have any intention of using any of his greater skills against the man gracious enough to allow him and his companions rest and repose in his home. Just his more basic skills with the blade should be sufficient.
He then charged towards the elder, moving in with a bold cut. However, the Shifu easily dodged the blade's movements and surprised Oersted with a playful punch before moving back. The knight gave pursuit in an attempt to go for a valorous slash. But again, the elder evaded the sword with ease and responded with a kick to the face, stunning him. From there, the Shifu simply hit Oersted in the center of his armor with a forceful push and knocked him into his back.
"O… Outstanding…!" The former champion was stunned to say the least. "To think, so easily bested I would be…!"
"It is a humbling experience, yes." the Shifu nodded. "Especially since you held yourself back."
His eyes widened in shock. The elder could easily tell he was not using his full prowess?
"That I did." Then Oersted realized he voiced that part out loud. "Your reluctance to battle your host aside, the way you fight is fraught with self-doubt. I may argue that you doubt yourself more than even young Yun doubts himself."
The knight couldn't come up with a proper response. Him, doubting himself? Surely not! He had every intent on returning to his home and undoing what went wrong. Princess rescued, the kingdom saved!
What does the old fossil know about your woes? Art thou truly going to let him preach meaningless platitudes? You know thou possess strength greater than he. Power grander. You should slay him for assumption most arrogant!
…But again, he could not respond. As much as he wanted to go against the idea, something within him kept him quiet, unable to argue.
"Oersted, have you experienced failure before?" the Shifu asked next.
"...The worst kind." He looked down at his feet. "A duty most important I was given… and failed it I hath in all ways, and so, faith from all in me lost. Tis my hope to see it undone, but no closer am I to redemption than from whence I began. Now I hath brought others unto mine pursuit without their consent, nor mine intent. With failures many upon my breast, what right have I to chase redemption?"
Why should thee? Thou didst nothing wrong! With sweet hate, thy victory is yours for the taking! Forsake foolish dreams of past gone! Accept your hatred! BECOME O–
"Failure is not falling down but refusing to get up."
At that, the knight looked back up towards the teacher. Another of his peculiar sayings?
"I know nothing of what happened to you before," the Shifu told him, "but I can say that you are a man of noble intent and purpose. In that same vein, you feel lost, feeling as though failures from your past have marked you for life. Yet as you say, you desire to make up for those mistakes. That means you have not given up hope or faith."
"But… hope and faith alone surely cannot avail me." The knight softly refuted. "With all seeming bleak, what path is there for me to take?"
"Every journey takes but a single step to begin," was the answer. "You cannot move forward without moving first. Nor need you walk it alone. You imply you inconvenienced your friends, but from what I've seen, they do not consider you as such."
Oersted, upon hearing that, couldn't help but chuckle quietly.
"They do wear their emotions on their sleeves…" He admitted.
"They have faith in you, just as I'm sure you have faith in them," the Shifu continued. "You simply need to have faith in yourself as well. And you can count on myself and my students having faith in you too."
"I…" The knight from out of time gave a small smile of gratitude. "Thank you, Shifu."
The Shifu was indeed a wise and good man, much like the great sage Uranus. Always knowing the right things to say. Always with his heart in the right place. Right to the bitter end…. He just hoped the Shifu would not undergo a similar fate.
"That being said," the elder looked at something on the fallen hero's person, "you do recall having a shield, do you not?"
Oersted blinked and looked to his side. Always being there, there was the shield the mysterious craftsman back in Prehistory made for him. Somehow he had completely forgotten about it, yet there it was. Still ready for use. He still had no idea just how it appeared similar to the shields in his time, but still it was fine craftsmanship.
"Ah, yes…" The blonde sheepishly chuckled, "How soon I forget. True, this shield I possess, but I've yet to see it used. With both hands, a sword I wield."
"Can you wield a sword and shield in equal measure, then?" The teacher asked in curiosity.
"Aye, I can. Just not as efficiently." The knight admitted. "Why dost thou ask?"
"Then perhaps it would do well for you to train you efficiently in that style."
Once more, Oersted was surprised. The Earthen Heart was not just talented with hand-to-hand techniques? How fascinating! But wait. 'Train him'?
"But Shifu, art thou not satisfied with pupils three thou already have?" Oersted asked.
"I doubt I need to train you as much as them, honestly speaking." The teacher replied. "You're already a trained warrior. You just need to brush up on newer skills that you are familiar with. So let's just say your training is more unofficial and leave it at that."
He supposed that made sense.
"Now, I think we spent enough time here." The old man smiled as he walked past him. "The others are no doubt waiting at home, wondering what's keeping us. Plus, tomorrow is going to be another special day of training. We should be well-rested for that."
"O-Of course!" The former hero nodded.
And indeed, tomorrow did come. This time however, the group found themselves back in the forest of bamboo, where they first encountered Lei. Speaking of the former bandit, she was looking pretty confident as she took in the fresh air. Yun was curiously tapping his feet on the dirt below him while Hong looked around for any sign of tigers hiding about. Gori was busy trying to figure out if bamboo was edible while Pogo was picking a flower for Beru and Zaki was fine-tuning his spear. Oersted again stood close by to watch the training unfold.
"Today we will be training to improve your speed and agility." The Shifu told his students.
"Speed is… not my strength." Hong looked down to his stomach, sounding a little ashamed.
"How ist it not?" Oersted blinked at that statement. "Thou easily evaded Hoi before we met."
"That's not speed." The former dine-and-dasher corrected. "I've just learned to be good at dodging and predicting movements."
"And most excellent to recognize the distinction, Hong." The Shifu approved. "While speed and agility do have aspects in common, they are not the same trait."
Yun, continuing to test the ground, said, "There's something odd about this ground. It seems hard to move around on…"
Lei, full of confidence, scoffed, "Heh, this will be easy. I know this place like the back of my hand!"
"Now, for this exercise, I've decided to try something new." The old teacher said, getting his pupils' attention. "Instead of sparring against me, you shall spar against our guests."
Everyone else looked confused by this sudden decision, yet none more than the aforementioned guests. Gori actually was just about to take a bite out of a bamboo stalk he pulled when the Shifu mentioned that. Pogo just handed Beru that flower and Zaki blinked upon being referred to. Oersted had to wonder where the Shifu was going with this.
"Against your guests?" Yun asked, confused. "A-Are you sure, Shifu? No offense, but your guests are… er…"
"Can they even fight on our level?" Lei raised a brow. Gesturing to the blonde, she added, "I mean, he at least has a sword. But aside from the one wielding the spear, they don't look like much."
"Hey, what that mean?" Pogo's brow twitched at that.
"Oh, there's no need to fear for them." their teacher replied. "Oersted has assured me that they are more than capable of holding their own. After all, you saw them handle the tigers before, have you not, Hong?"
"That's… fair, yes." Hong nodded in agreement.
"Then it's appropriate that they put you to the test as well." The Shifu said. "Now, the spars shall be as follows: Lei, you will face Zaki. Yun, Pogo will be your opponent. And Hong, Gori shall be your partner."
Upon their names being called, Zaki, Pogo, and Gori all looked to each other with perplexed looks before shrugging and walking up and standing opposite of their opponents. Of course, the chief of the former Kuu clan tried hiding his blush from Lei who raised her brow at the odd reaction. Yun blinked, wondering why he was going up against someone who was half his size and currently flexing to impress Beru. Gori just gave a toothy smile towards Hong, which the voracious former dine-and-dasher couldn't help but slightly fear. Beru simply cheered Pogo on as Oersted watched, wondering where the Shifu was going with this.
"Then let's begin." The teacher clapped his hands. "Show me what you have learned."
Seeing as they were really doing this, Lei of course made the first move against Zaki. Once more, she utilized her agility and her knowledge of the terrain to try and get a leg up on the chieftain's position. However, she didn't expect Zaki's sharp eye to track her movements and for him to leap out of the way when she moved to kick him. She certainly didn't expect for him to counter her with a kick of his own as well. So she followed up with another kick, only to get countered by another kick once more. From there, Zaki and Lei dueled against each other with kicks, with the pupil steadily growing more frustrated and the chieftain growing more attracted to her tenacity.
As for Yun, well, he was busy trying to dodge Pogo's attacks, and boy was he shocked that the short fellow could try for long distance attacks with those long jumps! But did he really have to use a spear or an ax while he did them? Still, he had to do something. Despite his height, Pogo was rather strong! So, the nervous pupil, acting in haste, tried hitting the green-haired caveman with one of the Shifu's moves.
Motioning his arms back and trying to recall the way his teacher positioned his hands, he waited until Pogo was close, and then gave the caveman a hefty chop to the face with the side of his hand. That of course stunned the caveman a bit, enough so for him to drop his ax. At this, Yun was glad he managed to land a blow and tried attacking again with a punch. Sadly for the pupil, he was still not yet strong enough to land decent enough damage, and this only stirred Pogo back to consciousness. In turn, the caveman gave the student a hefty kick to his gut, knocking some air out of his lungs.
Then there was Hong, who wondered how fighting against someone of his own girth would test his speed and agility. He got his answer when Gori gave him a wide, toothy smile before going to take a bite out of him! Fortunately Hong's talent when it came to evading pursuers gave him enough sense to dodge the bite and then counter with some powerful, yet rather slow-moving punches. Unfortunately the ape managed to dodge most of them. Then Gori made a freaky face, which distracted Hong enough for the animal to land a punch to his face.
While Beru was still cheering on Pogo, Oersted watched, starting to understand why the Shifu called on them to spar with his students instead of doing it himself this time. Pogo and Zaki were both skilled warriors and were used to walking on rough terrain and Gori was, well, an animal who could move on rough ground as well. Going up against them and some of their unpredictable moves would be more than essential training for speed and agility. Plus, with what Yun was doing, it was clear that they had to get a leg up by using what they learned. An unorthodox way of teaching, but clearly it was working.
Case in point, Lei finally got a leg, no pun intended, up against Zaki by using that focused kick she had seen used by the Shifu, and managed to knock him right across the face with her foot. This definitely got a cocky look in her eye. However, by the time Zaki was adjusting himself, his little lizard companion leapt from his shoulder and right up into Lei's face, whacking her nose with its tail! This made Lei stumble back just enough for the Kuu chief to leap butt first and knock her to the ground upon impact. The student was soon staring up at the sky, wondering what just happened.
Yun's luck against Pogo hadn't improved. Now finding dodging to be a more apt solution to Pogo's persistence, the nervous student started relying on the distance-creating techniques the Shifu possessed, be it forceful pushing or playful punching. But again, he did not yet have the strength necessary in order to properly use those techniques, so it was as though the caveman didn't even move from the spot he was hit from. In fact, the young warrior got so annoyed by this that he decided to just suddenly take out a long line of thorned vibes and grapple Yun with them! Fortunately they didn't prick him too badly, and Pogo only pulled on the vine to send the youth to the ground.
Oh but Hong definitely had the worst of it out of all of them. He had yet to truly master any of the Shifu's techniques, only able to rely on the techniques he already knew and on his girth acting as his defense. He attempted to bewilder Gori by suddenly making a bunch of befuddling dance moves as fast as he could move his feet. Gori's eyes darted about as they tried to follow, but alas the overgrown simian only got dizzy and stumbled a bit once the rotund student finished dancing. He was glad to find an opportunity to strike back would come.
…But then Gori let out a familiar toot of gas, an unfortunately familiar scene to the knight, and Hong ended up getting a face full of the noxious fumes. Upon smelling it, he ended up falling unconscious so he could no longer register the bad smell. Gori, regaining his senses, already had figured out what happened and snickered as usual. With all the students defeated, Zaki went to check on Lei while Beru ran over to Pogo and held him close to her chest, making the short one blush and giggle. Oersted went over to Yun and helped him get the vines untangled from his person.
"I think that will do for today." The Shifu decided upon seeing the results of the spars. "I trust you now all see how fighting unpredictable opponents would see speed and agility as a necessary counter."
"Unpredictable's an understatement! What sane person attacks with their buttocks?!" Lei of course had to ask, though Zaki wasn't bothered by it much.
"They sure are strong, though…" Yun could see as he got up as well, dusting some thorns from his clothes. To the knight, he asked, "Oersted, where was it you said you all came from again?"
"Places far from here, I'm afraid." The fallen hero answered him. "Homes one day to return, we hope."
"I'm sure you can ask Oersted all about it once things are settled at home." the teacher said to them. "Now… would anyone volunteer to carry Hong there? I would, but I have an old back, you see."
"Stinking liar…" Lei muttered at that part.
After a group effort of lifting Hong, the students, the guests, and their host all made their way from the bamboo forest and back to the school to rest. By then, night had finally come down, marking the end of another day. Once more, the Shifu and Oersted were having tea in his room. A common occurrence there, the former champion had noticed. Then again, he was quite in favor of the Shifu's blend of tea, so who was he to complain?
"Thou certainly gave them a surprise most unexpected, Shifu." Oersted said to the elder. "Having Pogo, Zaki, and Gori act as their opponents, not even that I could have foreseen."
"I suppose it is. All the same, I believe it was quite educational for all of them." the teacher explained. "It also gave your friends more to do, from what I believe of their content faces afterward."
"Aye, simply sitting around and watching people, tis something they are not used to." The blonde confirmed. "Pogo especially, he ist most comfortable acting rather than nothing doing."
"An eager soul, yes." The Shifu nodded. However, a contemplative expression appeared on his face. "So too, my students are eager, and, though they would never admit it themselves, I fear I pushed them too hard today…"
"Of that, there ist no need, surely." The knight went to reassure him. "Strong are Pogo and the others. Fought many great foes back home, they have. Anyone would be exhausted by their skill."
"Even so, I should go and see how they are doing." The Shifu stood from his seat. "Why don't you join me, Oersted?"
Seeing no harm, the knight got up from his seat and so followed the elder one into the training hall. Sure enough, everyone there was sleeping heavily. Pogo and Beru slept together, warmly embracing. Zaki slumbered near Lei, his lizard friend also sleeping on his shoulder. Hong too slept, muttering about food. Gori snored away as usual, a snot bubble formed from his nose.
The Shifu smiled at this scene, "Ah, they must be truly exhausted to sleep so soundly on such a hard floor."
But Oersted noticed something was off, "Holden." He looked around. "Yun, wherefore is he?"
Amidst those sleeping, Yun was indeed missing. Where could he have gone? And how could they have not noticed? Did he run while everyone else was asleep? That didn't seem like something he would do. Would it…?
The failed hero and the old master gave each other a glance of curiosity before making their way outside, quietly so they would not disturb the others. Once they were outside, under the night sky, they could hear the sound of something moving nearby. Oersted was just about to approach it, but then the Shifu held his arm back, giving a slight shushing motion with his finger. Following his lead, the champion quietly followed the Shifu just to the corner of the cottage and peeked out. There was Yun, punching and kicking the air and working up a sweat. He hadn't run away at all.
He was training on his own.
"Hong has his strength!" Yun panted as he kept up his training. "Lei has her speed! I've got to find an edge! I can't lose to them!"
At this, the Shifu simply sighed and chuckled, proud of the kind of man Yun was becoming. Then his gaze turned to Oersted, who was watching the young pupil training. His face… was nostalgic, the old teacher would say. Perhaps something about Yun training himself struck an accord with the knight. Well, in that case…
"Oersted, why don't you help Yun along?" The Shifu asked him quietly.
"Shifu, art thou certain?" Oersted was surprised by that question.
"I think Yun would find better results with a partner rather than on his own," he explained, "wouldn't you agree?"
Oersted again looked towards Yun. The way he was so focused on getting stronger, bettering himself through training alone. He could recall the days he was starting out as a squire, training with a sword with the aim to one day become a knight, and then becoming a hero. Those days were long and arduous, especially under strict teachers. But eventually though, he did get adequate sparring partners to test his mettle with.
Too bad one of them was a corrupt and petty mage who ruined all for naught but petty entitlement.
…Still, he seemed to understand where the Shifu was coming from.
"Ho there, Yun!" Oersted greeted, coming out from the corner and into view. The Shifu of course approved of this, watching the knight add, "Training by thyself at this hour? Art thou not tired?"
"Oh, Oersted!" Yun was surprised to see him there. "You're awake?"
"I stirred, yes." The knight explained. "But once sight returned, thou were not amongst those sleeping. Almost thought you left us, I did."
"Oh no, nothing like that!" The young pupil shook his head fast. "I would never leave now! Not when I'm still learning!"
"Then why train outside under this starlit sky whilst the others rest?" He asked. "Thou hath experienced a long day of training already, and surely another comest sunrise. You should save thine strength and join the others."
Oersted had remembered hearing the same thing in his direction before. Some of his fellow squires were concerned about how far he took his training. Especially at late hours when all were supposed to sleep. Some of the teachers were concerned he may have been going overboard, or at first expected he was up to mischief before finding he hadn't even left the training yard. As such, he could figure out what response would come next.
"I… I can't. Not yet."
There it was. He never could say it himself. People too often spoke before he could get the chance, so it was always in his head those words came up.
"Lei and Hong are already leagues above me in talent. As I am, I could never hope to catch up to their skills." Yun said. "Hong's strength, Lei's speed… I need something of my own to be up to the Shifu's worth. I have to get stronger. Faster. If I don't… what use am I?"
Yes, this was indeed familiar. Concerningly so. Was this how he looked during his squire days? Oersted had newfound respect for his teachers then. Anyhow, he reflected enough.
"With all respect due, Yun," Oersted told the student, "thou hath something beyond Lei and Hong already. Mayhaps not strength nor speed, but something greater."
"What's that?" Yun asked, confused by the idea.
"Knowledge of the Shifu's techniques."
At his surprised expression, the fallen hero continued, "Thou hast clearly learned to put to use the Shifu's skills after thyself experiencing them. Lei has only learned a small number, and Hong has yet to learn even one. But thee? Thou hast already learned more than both put together. You hath been keeping with them– nay, surpassing them in what truly matters, if myself thee would asketh."
"But…" Yun somewhat got over his surprise to disparage himself, "even so, I'm not yet strong enough to truly use them. I–"
"No more of that." Oersted cut him off. "If thou insist on training at this hour late, then I shall assist thee."
"Y-You will?"
"Of course." The knight confirmed. "After all, training only succeeds with someone to aid thee."
With that, Oersted pulled out the wooden training sword. Subconsciously, he was about to put two hands around the hilt. But then he recalled the shield. Holding the sword in one hand, he brought up the shield in the other, then positioned himself just across from Yun. If he was going to help Yun train, then he might as well get some training for himself as well.
"Now have at thee!" Oersted told him. "Give it your all!"
"Y-Yes!" Yun nodded and got into his stance.
And with that, the two began training, with Yun unaware of the Shifu watching in approval of Oersted stepping up to help him. Eventually though, the pair would have to go to sleep for the night. With that, morning came once more, and the third day of the Shifu's tutelage was underway. The training hall yet again, the old master stood before his three students while his guests stood to the side and watched. Again, a familiar scene; however…
"Well done, everyone." The Shifu said to his disciples. "You have all demonstrated sufficient mastery of the fundamentals. Henceforth, we will face one another not in sparring matches, but in true contests of strength. In so doing, you will learn to draw upon the power within."
"Now this is what I've been waiting for!" Lei was definitely eager.
"If we win, we will be rewarded?" Hong, again, was hungry. "With a feast?"
Ever incorrigible, that Hong.
"In a real battle, your opponent will be fighting to kill." their teacher instructed. "Which is why I shall be holding nothing back today."
Yun couldn't help the shiver that ran down his spine. People trying to kill them. He had that fear when it came to Sun Tzu Wang. Just the very idea still made him nervous. He was just fortunate to be surrounded by friends right now, otherwise…
As for the knight, he could definitely see that over the past few days, the students all had improved in their own ways. Lei hadn't much talked about avenging her loss so much as being eager to train against the Shifu, Hong's habits were becoming more manageable, and Yun had fewer bouts of nervousness. He doubted that this would truly be the end of their training, but also at this point, he imagined that they would only get stronger from here.
All thanks to the wisdom and encouragement of the good Shifu and his faith.
"Now… show me your all." The Shifu then stepped forth, beckoning his students to fight him.
Lei yet again went first against the Shifu. Her approach had made a very notable difference over the past few days. At first, she didn't rely on her agility to throw the Shifu off. Instead, she went forward and began utilizing one of the few techniques she learned from the Shifu to do so. Sure enough, using the familiar chop to momentarily disable the Shifu's arms, she then went in with a focused kick. At that, the Shifu's grin came up as he then shifted forward and uppercutted her with a long kick, just as he had before.
This time, however, Lei didn't go down. Instead, she moved with the kick and leapt back before moving in to bind him in place like a serpent. That gave her enough room to then forcefully push him from behind. This change in tactics was definitely something the former bandit would not have utilized before. However, the Shifu was not down yet. From his position, he took a deep breath and then suddenly shot out some burst of air right into Lei's chest, knocking her for a loop!
This new technique, throwing the female disciple off guard, allowed the teacher to move in and shift his body with grace around her, dealing many blows to her body soon after. With that, the fight was one, but there were still the other students to go. Yun was up next in fact. The moment the teacher gave him his attention, the nervous disciple knew he had to fight with all he had. He hoped his training would not be for nothing.
The Shifu once more moved in lightly as a chipmunk, attempting to hit Yun with an uppercut kick. However, Yun evaded the attack and returned fire with the same move in turn, followed soon after by a playful punch that sent himself back. Impressed, the teacher yet again fired at his student with a concentrated burst of air. The boy dodged, but then the elder moved closer and hit him with a focused kick and a double-palm thrust. This, combined with Yun's still admittedly low stamina, was enough to beat him.
Hong was saved for last. Though he had yet to master one of the Shifu's techniques, perhaps giving it his all would strike his inspiration. The Shifu did the first strike, going for a forceful push to knock his rotund student back. But to his surprise, Hong managed to dodge and then counter with a focused kick! Finally, he had managed to learn one of his techniques! With approval, the Shifu kept going, landing a double-palm thrust that kept Hong in place, only to get pushed back forcefully from his student.
Two moves he managed to use! Excellent!
But all the same, the Shifu still moved with more grace like a fox. Moving about Hong and hitting him in many parts without any ability to retaliate, he had beaten Hong as well. With that, he had taught all three students with all of his might. All his might… and his stamina, it appeared. Oersted could see the elder beginning to sweat for the first time.
"That's all for… today…" the teacher panted.
And just then, he collapsed to his knees, coughing into his hand. A liquid cough at that. A sound that would worry anybody in their right mind.
"Shifu!" Yun exclaimed as everyone ran to help the elder.
"Are you okay!?" Lei too was surprisingly concerned for her teacher's state.
"Dost thou needest an apothecary?" Oersted asked him. "I'll find one, post-haste!"
But in spite of this, the Shifu managed to get back up on his feet, a smile on his face as he assured them, "I'm fine, don't worry." He told them. Specifically to his students, he said, "Rather, take heart. For my exhaustion is welcome evidence… of your tremendous improvement!"
"Well now, do my ears deceive me?"
Another aged voice filled the air as everyone saw a man enter the training hall. An old man, about as old as the Shifu, but was completely bald, and most of his white hair was found with thick eyebrows and a long beard. He wore yellow robes with an orange cloth with yellow-stripes adorning it harnessed onto his attire. On his white-socked feet were wooden sandals with black strings. He appeared to be gazing at the scene with a pleasant smile on his aged face.
"Why old friend!" The other elder chortled. "You've gotten new students after all!"
"Well I'll be…" The Shifu smiled at the sight of this man. "Is it truly you, old friend?"
"You know this man, Shifu?" Yun asked, having not seen this man before.
"But of course." The teacher nodded before gesturing towards the other old man. "Everyone, this is an old friend of mine from back when we were both students of the same art. Yi Pei Kou."
"A pleasant greeting to you all." The other elder, Yi Pei Kou, bowed his head to them. "But my goodness, I do not recall the old school being so full in years. I was almost worried you'd be here all by yourself until we both went to meet the ground. How did you get so many students?"
"Actually, Yi Pei Kou," the Shifu said to his old friend, "why don't we discuss that and more at length over tea? We have so much to talk about."
"That we do." Yi Pei Kou nodded in agreement.
So, with the students resting after their training for the day and the gang from prehistory resting with them, Oersted yet again found himself with the Shifu in his room, tea sipped. This time, however, the recent addition of Yi Pei Kou changed things up a bit. Plus, the Shifu and Yi Pei Kou were busy talking with each other. It was pretty awkward to just sit there while the two aged friends had their conversation. But he was the one who poured the tea, so what could he do?
"Ah, so you have three students and the others are your guests?" Yi Pei Kou asked after the Shifu explained things. "Even the animal?"
"Yes, even Gori." the Shifu chuckled at Yi Pei Kou's small trace of incredulousness in his voice. "It is quite the story to tell. An eccentric group far from home, lost and without shelter, thus I take them in as guests and then I find three prospective pupils all in the same day. At times I can hardly believe it myself."
"It is certainly a tall tale, that's for sure." Agreed the Shifu's friend. "Still, I'm surprised to hear your students have made significant progress in three days alone. Why, when we were their age, it took us close to weeks to master one or two of our teacher's techniques."
"We were both young and headstrong." the teacher recalled. "I will not deny either of us were truly easy students for our own master to teach."
"You can't forget he was not the easiest master to follow, either." Yi Pei Kou pointed out. "For a school supposedly about serenity, he always emphasized the art of battle more often than not."
"Perhaps, but he always had the best intentions at heart." The Shifu replied.
Oersted didn't dare cut into the conversation. It would be rude otherwise. However, the more he watched, the more he couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. No quests, no contests; just something calm and relaxing to share with another. He remembered when he could just be with a friend like this…
He always talked over you, at you. To you, never listened, never spoken. Your friend, he never was. Just a leech. A snake who coveted what thou earned with thine own hands. Blamed thee for his avarice. Sentiments false such as these are best ignored and thrown away.
"But anyhow, it is wonderful to see you, old friend." The Shifu said. "It has been so long since you had last been here at the school of the Xin Shan Quan. I do have to say, though, it is a shame that you haven't taken up the art alongside me. We were the only ones left for a long time, after all."
"I know, Shifu," Yi Pei Kou sighed as he looked into his reflection in the tea, "but after all that has happened, I found that being a master of the Earthen Heart is not something I can be. I'm content just living my days in peace, as I've often desired. Honestly, it's a rather pleasant retirement from those old days. I would have told you it would have served you just as well, Shifu, but now that you've managed to keep the school alive and with three new disciples to carry the torch, who am I to dissuade you? If anything, we both got what we wanted at the tail end of our lives."
"Well, not yet, I'm afraid." Oersted's host shook his head. "I am proud of my students. They are coming along more than I could ever have hoped. However, among them, I will still have to pick one as my successor."
The knight couldn't help but blink. The Shifu could only pick one successor? Then how was he to decide? All three of them proved to be more than worthy of succeeding him in their own ways. Yun's astuteness, Hong's strength, Lei's speed, all were admirable qualities. And it wasn't like their flaws could outweigh their improvements now, could they?
"Ah yes, that issue…" Yi Pei Kou recalled. "I remember the day when you got chosen as the successor. After that, we went to celebrate, and…"
"..."
The table was silent. Emotion reduced to somber melancholy. Oersted looked between the two elders and wondered. Just what had happened in their past? Clearly it had to be some form of tragedy. The knight was more than acquainted with the concept to recognize it.
But then Yi Pei Kou shook his head, saying, "Oh listen to us, focusing on bad memories when this should be a pleasant reunion! And in front of one of your guests too! My apologies, Shifu."
"There's no need to apologize, old friend." The Shifu replied. "Seeing you again truly was what made today special."
"I should say the same to yourself." the elder in yellow nodded. He then heard the crickets outside, adding, "But as much as I'd like to stay longer, I'm afraid I should make my way home. I've no desire to impose on your hospitality more than I already have."
"You've done no such thing." the elder in black assured him as they both stood up. He held out his hand for him to shake, adding, "Hopefully we shall meet each other again soon, Yi Pei Kou."
"I would much appreciate that, Shifu." Yi Pei Kou grasped his hand and shook it. Once the shake was done, he turned around and left, "Good night, old friend."
And with that, gentle steps to not disturb the others, Yi Pei Kou left the Shifu's cottage. Oersted couldn't help but note the whole conversation. The two elders definitely could hold one with each other. Perhaps that was a benefit to being genuine friends? It certainly felt like more than he ever had with AVARICIOUS MAGISTER.
"Hm…" The Shifu appeared to be staring at his hand.
"Ist something distressing, Shifu?" Oersted asked him.
"Though he said he has not taken up the art in years…" the old master could not help but remark, "his hands still have a rather strong grip."
Either way, the night yet again passed and the fourth day was upon them. Today, the Shifu was going to be teaching his pupils about the necessity of meditation. Tranquility and focus in one calm center. This was the point where he knew his students were going to eventually surpass his expectations. That being said, before he would leave that morning, he did have something he needed Oersted to do.
"We need more food already?" Oersted was surprised to hear the request being made of him. "But I could hath sworn Hong's magnanimous cravings ceased!"
"Remember, Oersted, it's not just Hong who lives under the same roof as us." The teacher told him. "You've often said that Gori's appetite was a match for his, remember?"
The knight sighed. That he did. He shouldn't be surprised one learned stomach did not mean the other would just so. And there was Gori snickering. Clearly not repentant about his gluttony.
Placing some coins into Oersted's palm, the elder told him next, "This should be enough to buy as much food as we'll need for the next few days, provided Gori keeps a closed stomach. As the people of Yunfa have seen you with me, they will be sure to give you a discount on all their wares, so we'll still have money left over. And knowing your skills, you should be able to keep yourself safe if any bandits seek to impede your trip."
"Somehow I feel I'm a lad of 12 summers again being sent on errands." The former champion remarked as he put the money safely away. "Fret not, Shifu. I shall return posthaste with meals aplenty!"
"Have a pleasant trip now." The Shifu told him as Oersted began walking out the door.
"Bring back dumples!" He heard Pogo call after him.
Pogo's hunger-induced request, a humorous ring in his ear, Oersted made his way down the mountain. He remembered the way to Yunfa. Simple really; he could not miss the baskets full of produce. The bustling marketplace seemed to see brighter days since Hong stopped stealing food to survive. Whether that was a mark of Hong's improvement or maybe telling of the damage he caused, Oersted wasn't sure which was better to consider.
The streets again were full of bustle and hustle, though it did appear to be moreso than usual from the past few days since he'd last been here.
The elderly woman in red noticed him approaching and greeted pleasantly, "Oh, one of the Shifu's guests! Here on errands for him, dear boy?"
"I am thus, madam." Oersted confirmed politely to the old maid. "With mouths an abundance to feed, food the Shifu needs aplenty."
"Heh. Most likely just the one if you ask me." The old man in yellow from before chuckled a bit.
"Come now, Ling, don't be cruel." The old woman told him as she prepared a bag for the knight to carry full of food, "Ever since the Shifu had taken him on, young Sammo has gotten better these past few days."
"Sammo?" The former champion blinked at the unfamiliar name. "Pray tell, who ist this 'Sammo'?"
"That would be the brute's real name." The grumpy adult from before chimed in. "The name of Hong is a fake one he crafted himself so he could avoid shaming his family more than he already has. Feh, like that did anything for the rogue."
"Yao, please." The old woman sighed at this before finishing putting all the produce she could fit into the bag for Oersted. "I'm terribly sorry about them, friend. Even before young Sammo resorted to taking food without paying, he was never treated kindly by many for his appearance. Perhaps if we just treated him a little kinder, we could have avoided that whole crisis."
"Oh spare him your sympathies, Li!" The other old man he had seen before rolled his eyes at the old woman's bleeding heart. "How we acted or not, he still stole food from our stores and threatened our livelihoods. He would've been rightfully exiled 1000 miles from us for his crimes if not for the Shifu's mercy."
Amidst this sudden bout of bickering, Oersted could not help but remember those dark times yet again. Exiled for crime committed, truthfully a trap set by CONNIVING MANIPULATOR. The king's blood still practically wet on Brion's once-stainless sheen, the truth revealed to him too late. Despite his attempts to clear his name, none would listen, judgment already made. Then exiled again in Prehistory despite attempts to save the South Tribe.
Was Hong, or Sammo mayhaps, even with his circumstances, truly so close to suffering the same fate he and Pogo had? Just for the meager crime of stealing food to survive? True, he had judged Hong before on that, but he didn't consider exiling him for that to be a matching punishment. And from the sound of it, the people could have easily stopped this crisis before it even began, yet most were still content to speak ill of him just because it was easier than the alternative.
See how 'justice' changes meaning to what is convenient for humanity? Unwilling to accept fault, a scapegoat they would create, shift the blame. A martyr for their egos. What part of this sin is worthy of protection? Worthy of heroism's favor?
It wasn't their fault. They were just… just…
Selfish. That is what they are. All they will ever be.
…He needed to focus away from this.
"Prithee," the fallen hero changed topics, "the crowd yonder of note. What is the fuss?"
"Oh, that?" The old lady Li was grateful for the change. "That would be the Geji entertaining in Yunfa."
"'Geh-Jee'?" The knight echoed, trying to pronounce the word.
"The Geji, son." Yao clarified. "Magnificent and talented sisters three. They're putting on a performance. Why don't you go see yourself while you're getting what the Shifu needs?"
Now that actually did sound like a pleasant idea. So, hurriedly, Oersted paid for more food for the Shifu's home while making his way towards the crowd. He could see the Xi and Cha siblings all part of the crowd as well, and he stepped around carefully to try and get a better view. This would be his first time seeing a performance in a foreign land… well, at least in a time that seemed close to his own and done by civilized people. So what would a performance in this land of martial arts look like?
And then, finding a perfect spot, he saw for himself. There were three ladies performing more than just song. One of the girls was thicker set, with a wide, plump, and full figure. Despite her seemingly pudgy appearance, she wielded each of her twin maces, each shaped like elegant instruments adorned at the hilt with green pummel stones, with evident and clear skill. She wore a red Chinese dress, with a pair of loose silken pants and wore her red hair in a long braid, along with two red buns and a green necklace. She entertained the crowd by juggling her maces with skilled ease.
The other girl had similar garb, but hers was cut open and loose to expose her chest and torso. She also wielded twin weapons, twin sabers, and kept her equally long green hair in two braids, adorned at the end with golden bangles. Like her companion, she also had buns in her hair, although hers were white instead of red. She too was juggling for the audience, but her blades were the centerpiece of her act. Then they further wowed the people by juggling each other's weapons. What could possibly top this?
And then, there she was. The woman he had met days before, dancing amidst the maces and swords and dodging them with the utmost grace.
"Chan…!" Oersted breathed out. The pieces came into place. She had mentioned she and her sisters were putting on an act in Wong before moving towards Yunfa. To think he would get to see it completely by accident!
…Oh dear, he saw it by accident when he would have rather seen it on purpose. Blast!
But even so, the knight continued watching the performance. Watching Chan in motion was completely and utterly breathtaking. Not a single flaw in her step. The swords could not cut her. The maces could not blunt her. She moved like she was but a leaf in the wind.
Then she did another interesting trick! From her qipao, she brought out a long red pole before embedding it into the ground and then climbing up its length simply by swinging from it with both hands. And then, to further dazzle everyone, Chan reached the top, soared into the air, and then landed on the tip of the pole with but one foot. She then finished by letting out a breath of blue fire up into the sky.
And with that, the show was just as over as it seemingly started for Oersted. Everyone was cheering and applauding wildly for the spectacle. The former champion could not help but join in. It was like nothing he had ever seen. Not even the celebration forming the Heiwa tribe could compare!
When she finished blowing her fire, her eyes took notice of him watching, and then she winked at him with a smile. The knight actually blushed at this, again trying to hide it. Were women outside of Lucrece, much before his time, always so forward? He hoped she wouldn't be too cross with him for being late for her performance. Maybe she'd understand that he was busy with the Shifu?
Soon, however, the performance did end and everyone went about back to their business. Oersted unfortunately ended up losing sight of Chan and the others by the time the crowd was moving about. Disappointing, really. He was actually hoping to see if he could talk to her again. But just as he was about to resign himself to heading back…
"There you are, Oersted, was it?"
Her voice called to him, and he turned to see her approaching him with that smile.
"Ah, lady Chan!" Oersted smile back, pleased to see her. "Tis been a few sunrises, has it not?"
"I should say it has." She chuckled at his fancy speech. "I was almost worried you wouldn't get to see us perform."
"The whole act, I'm uncertain I hath caught." He admitted to her. "Mine apologies, my fair lady."
She ended up giggling more at his flowery words.
"You don't need to keep speaking so old-fashioned, Oersted." She told him. "You are among the common folk, after all."
"Mine apologies, but back home, 'tis simply our model of speech." He apologized with a modest shrug. "For so long, I've tried speaking simpler for others, but 'tis difficult once the common tongue returns."
She playfully sighed as she looked into his eyes, replying, "I suppose I will simply accept it. After all, that fine tone of yours does make that speech a pleasure for the ears."
"Ah, so this is that foreigner you mentioned before, sister?"
Oersted's gaze turned towards the two other ladies who Chan performed with. No doubt they were the sisters she mentioned before. Both seemed to be watching them with smirks upon their faces. Not to mention the chubby one seemed to be holding a large bag filled with the local currency. They must have been really popular with the people to have made such coin.
"You weren't kidding." The chubby one added. "He is quite easy on the eyes compared to the other men around these parts."
"And that blade's point is well-crafted." the thin one mused as well. "You sure he isn't a soldier new to the army of the emperor?"
"Pfft. Like the empire would allow foreigners into its own stations. Seriously, use your head a little." The chubby one rolled her eyes, making her sibling glare at her.
"Now now, girls," Chan scolded them gently, yet firmly, "no fighting in front of the good people of Yunfa."
"Er, pardon mine intervention," the fallen hero cleared his throat, gathering their attention, "but thou art Chan's sisters, correct?"
"That's right." The thin one replied. "You know Chan. I am Lin, mistress of blades."
"And I am Xian," the chubby one introduced herself, "strongest of the sisters three!"
"More like the widest." Lin teased with a smirk.
"Say that to my face, bone-body!" Xian took offense to that.
"Girls."
But of course, Chan's reprimand kept the two from arguing further. It was clear who ran this troupe. That being said, as Oersted had watched this play out, he couldn't help but feel a sense of deja vu. And pretty recent at that. What could it be…?
Clearing her throat, Chan again spoke to him, "Sorry about that, Oersted. Having to be the adult between us three sisters is already quite the trial with every sunrise."
"I doubt that, not." The failed hero shook his head. "Honestly, worried more 'bout your reaction to mine tardiness, I was."
"Oh please," the woman dismissed with a wave of her perfectly manicured hand, "you still made it to the important part of the performance. You practically missed nothing when you arrived as you did."
"Oh, 'tis a relief then." Oersted let out a held breath from that. "'Twas a grand performance full of light and life. Not often hath I seen such spectacle in all mine days."
"We can do no less for the people of China." Chan bowed theatrically at his praise. Though when she stood back up, she had a look of complex thought on her beautiful face, musing, "Although, for you, it was no doubt far too short to see us truly play, and you seem rather tense."
"Tense?" The former champion looked around his being. "Dost I now?"
"But of course, good man." She told him, strutting over so she was walking around him. "Why, just look at you wearing that armor with the sword and shield practically weighing you down when you're not busy using them. Your poor shoulders must ache whenever you take them off!"
He did have to admit. It had been a while since he had last worn anything besides his armor. He never got the chance to change his clothes either since the last trip to Yunfa was mainly so Pogo, Beru, and Zaki would not stand out so much. Then everything with Hong happened and they had to make their way to the bamboo forest where they met Lei. He never felt like anything was truly off with his body.
Still, it seemed pretty clear that Chan was offering him a chance to relax. Not often he had that since coming here, he noticed.
"I suppose I could stand a change of attire." Oersted looked over his armor. Then he looked at the bag he held, saying, "But all the same, I've an errand to finish, and–"
"For the Shifu, yes? His patience is grand. Surely he can wait longer." Chan further tempted him, letting one arm lock with his free one. "Come now. Why don't we make up for lost time~?"
And then, she closed the distance, taking his hand in hers before she rested her body against his.
Once more, Oersted felt a flash before his eyes. Again, he felt as though he was looking at his princess. To be close to her again. To hold her like he had before. To confess his love…
"...I doth suppose the Shifu's teachings will be a while…" The fallen hero finally said. "Perhaps our time spent together, he would not mind."
"Wonderful!" Chan was happy to hear him say that. "Trust me Oersted when I say you will not regret it~."
"Well, I suppose that we'll leave you to your little romantic outing while we get everything cleaned up." Xian waved it off and turned around. "Don't get any ideas, you two!"
"You're just jealous you haven't found a man for yourself yet." Lin of course teased Xian as they went off, leaving the pair blushing behind them.
"Oh shut your mouth!" They heard the chubby one retorted. "Like you have one either!"
Oersted, clearing his throat to hide his blush, then turned towards the second woman who appeared much like his princess and asked, "So, lady Chan, where shall we start our rendezvous?"
"'Rendezvous'... My, such a fancy vocabulary you have there." Chan giggled at that. "But first, let's get you into something more comfortable."
With that, the two began their little outing together. Indeed, the first thing they did was go over to the domicile of the Xi brothers, who recognized the blonde one as being with the Shifu. After keeping Su Xi and San Xi from getting into Chan's personal space, Yi Xi and Er Xi were more than kind enough to help when it came to providing the knight with fitting attire. Of course, getting him out of the armor was certainly an ordeal, but fortunately the armor was nothing they could not lift together. Plus, Chan had a fantastic view of the frame Oersted had for a body. Training as a warrior indeed did his form wonders.
A form which his newfound robes could not completely contain, if they were completely honest. Worn over a torso clearly built and chiseled due to dedication to the sword, the former champion now donned a robe befitting of the era he was in. Colored dark blue with a light blue waistband and black slipper on his feet, Oersted felt a bit comfortable wearing it. Sure, it did feel alien wearing something that wasn't his armor, but this was pleasant. And Chan seemed to like how it looked on him as well.
Seeing her smile at him made him feel warm inside.
After paying for the robes, and with Oersted being able to carry both his armor and the bag of produce he procured, he spent more of his day with Chan in the market. Browsing the wares, taking in the sights, and even getting to eat together at Hoi's restaurant. He had never had a time like this with such a beautiful woman. Honestly, he wished he and his princess would have gotten to do this outside of just a celebratory banquet. Before… everything.
"The dumplings here are exquisite, aren't they?" Chan asked as they both ate.
"That they are." He nodded. "Last time, I was unable to savor these culinary delights. To aid the people of Wong in their sickness, I hurried. 'Tis a miracle I did not choke, now that I ponder of it."
"But you are a man of conviction." She told him between another dumpling. "Ready to act on a moment's notice. A man of true strength. Sadly rare in these parts of China."
"Is it though?" Oersted's brow rose at that. "Surely thou exaggerate."
The woman asked him, "Did you see anyone else going to do anything about it until you and your companions decided to do so?"
"...Nay, I am saddened to admit." The former champion sighed. "Mayhaps, were it not for local gossip, news of the plague wouldst not have reached our ears."
It was ultimately a realistic idea as well. They would no doubt have gone to Wong after Yunfa and have no idea of the sickness going on, thus they would have to double back towards the bamboo forest and lose time helping the sick. Then there was how encountering Lei and Yun would have gone. Would the Shifu have managed to get his students if they didn't hear that bit of critical information just from having dumplings? The failed hero was not so certain.
"And you still did more than anyone else who'd claim to do the same." She told him. "You've more initiative than the average man around these parts. In fact…"
She leaned in close to him, letting him look deep into her eyes. By now, him trying to hide his blush was an exercise in futility.
"In fact," she said, "it feels wrong for someone like you to seem so lonely."
"L-Lonely?" Oersted blinked. "What dost thou imply?"
"It's clear in your eyes." Chan explained. "You held love before, haven't you? Yet you lost it, by no fault of your own. It is easy to see. As a woman myself, I know full well how fickle the hearts of we, the fairer sex, are."
Beautiful and perceptive… will your wonders never cease, Chan? But then again, Oersted couldn't say women's hearts were truly fickle. Beru was devoted to Pogo, and he to her. Yet he couldn't voice it either. Not… with her so close….
"Look at you. Handsome, with your captivating brown eyes, those charming looks, and that warrior's form you kept hidden under that armor." She continued, a single finger starting to trace down his shoulder. "There is just no way you were not the apple of many maiden's eye. And you are not simply looks and physique besides. You are a man of conviction and decision. A warrior. The perfect man."
"You… You flatter me too much." Oersted wasn't sure what to say at this.
This… this was more forward than he ever expected. Not even Beru was this forward with Pogo. At least, he hoped she wasn't.
"I believe I'm not telling you enough." She rebutted. "Whoever this past woman in your life was, she clearly did not see you as the gift she was being given."
Gift? Given? No. Back then, the princess' hand was the prize for the tourney. If anything, she was practically being given to him! Him, a gift for fair Alethea? Truly, such a ridiculous notion….
Yet she did nothing to dissuade you of such affections. She was willing to lie to you from the beginning. Those sweet nothings she spoke into your ear were just that. Nothing. And she blamed you for HIS crimes. Why should that fool princess be worthy of your attention?
"I can prove it to you, if you so desire."
"B-Beg pardon?" Oersted was taken off guard, then blushed again as Chan took a pair of chopsticks and picked a stray bit of dumpling from his cheek before sampling it herself.
"We don't we walk together along the mountain?" She offered. "No doubt having more appreciative company would be better for your senses."
Appreciative company… interesting choice of words. But surely he was looking too much into it. Chan was just offering more of her company and she was being quite persuasive. Her company was not unpleasant either. He could very well consider it being her escort.
"I suppose that would be a lovely proposition, lady Chan." He smiled at her.
She giggled, a charming sound, and answered in kind, "Wonderful! I trust you are going to enjoy this more than you think~."
So, after paying for the food, Oersted went to leave with Chan while holding the bag of produce and his armor. But before they did, Chan actually had a creative way of lightening the weight in his arms. Taking a rope, the knight was not sure where she got it from, she then wrapped his armor securely for him to carry on his back while his bag of produce was still in his right arm and hand. This left his, well, left arm open for her to lock with her own, walking closely to his side. She gave him a wink at this, and so the former champion blushed again.
Yet as they walked through the village, the knight found himself growing more comfortable with the woman at his arm. This was different from just walking among companions on a quest. This was closer. Special. Something… more.
Something he wished he could have experienced with his beloved princess. His princess whom Chan resembled greatly. Chan, who held his arm and stood at his side with more passion than he would have expected from a woman. She was encouraging, witty, talented, responsible for her sisters. She would make any man happy to be his and his alone.
She… made him happy, he couldn't help but admit to himself.
"Ah, if it isn't the fair Chan of the Sisters Three!"
But then, just as they left the outskirts of Yunfa and began walking along the mountain, they were rudely interrupted. They looked up, seeing none other than the familiar mug of Sun Tzu Wang standing before them, again flanked by his lackeys. Oersted frowned at the sight of them, remembering them well. But their leers were focused on Chan, blatantly ignoring him. The knight remembered that only the Shifu dealt with the thugs personally, not everyone else with him save for Yun.
"Not often you're away from your more homely siblings." the so-called Tiger King said to her with a smirk. "That's fine. After all, you're the most beautiful of the three anyhow. Perfect for the Tiger King's bride."
"I see your fantasies still run high." Chan stared at him, unimpressed with the thug. "Were you not told off before after causing trouble in Wong?"
"Oh, but we're not here to cause trouble with you. At least, not unless you desire it." Sun Tzu Wang was not bothered with her tone. "Come, why not leave this ignorant foreigner and be amongst real men?"
"He hath seen the Shifu teach thee humility, this 'ignorant foreigner'."
Oersted's tone came out roughly as he narrowed a steady glare at the thugs.
"Clearly, the lesson did not take." He shook his head. "Thou remainest as vile and avaricious as thou hath been first witnessed."
The thugs' attention turned towards Oersted next. All of them glared at the knight, but none moreso than Sun Tzu Wang. He had been dealing with nothing but disrespect these past few suns. The people no longer looked upon him with fear ever since he was humiliated by the Shifu. So this western barbarian thought he was better than him because of that, did he?
"You'd best watch your mouth, gweilo, and beg for forgiveness right here for your insolence." Sun Tzu Wang sneered. "I will not–"
"Thou hast no right to dictate terms, scum as you are." The former champion cut him off as he placed the produce bag down along with his armor. His strange knowledge of the foreign language has also taught him what 'gweilo' meant. 'Foreign Devil'. Funny, coming from an arrogant brigand. "You would best leave now, for thine own sake. The Shifu, he was a man of mercy…"
Oersted then took out his sword from its hilt, readying Brion with a focused look as he stood before Chan.
"...but a man of justice am I!" He finished.
Incensed by this, Sun Tzu Wang and his followers made to attack Oersted, only for the knight out of time to evade their punches and counterattack with a flourish, knocking them back. They had enough intelligence to be wary of the sword, but still, the Tiger King did not plan on suffering a loss against a foreigner on top of a loss against an old man. Too bad for him that the fallen hero was not going to let up and simply wait for him to blunder. He already made quick work of Sun's lackeys with a prismatic whirl, so he charged for their leader, intent on finishing things quickly.
All the while, he was unaware of Chan watching his moves intently. She marveled at his skills with a blade. Clearly nothing like she had seen from any mere soldier or even from someone who mastered them like her sister Lin. And the way he glared at Sun Tzu Wang like the man was nothing to him. She couldn't help the red on her face.
This handsome man of the West reminded her plenty of him in all the right ways. Meeting him in Wong was no mistake of fate, surely!
The fight ended just about as soon as it began, with Sun Tzu Wang landed onto his backside after being dealt a crushing blow from Oersted. The thug's face was full of shock. Another loss? To a mere gweilo? But, he was supposed to be strong! He was the Tiger King, Sun Tzu Wang!
"This shouldn't be happening!" He frustratedly bemoaned his defeat. "I should be stronger than the people on this mountain, much less a western barbarian!"
But then he sweated as his opponent had his sword right at his throat. His frustration gave way to fear. He looked up, seeing the man's brown eyes glaring down upon him. Was this it? Was he actually going to die here?
What could he do? Should he beg for his life?
Do it! Run thine blade through his wretched throat! He is undeserving of the life he had been given! Cleanse the world of him! Let your hate erase him from existence!
"...Get up."
"H-Huh?"
He wasn't dead yet. But the blade was still at his throat. What…?
"Get. Up." The failed hero told the Tiger King. "Then leave. Thou shalt never bother lady Chan again, lest once more thou answer to me."
"You…" the fool was granting him mercy? Well, he was not going to look a gift horse in the mouth, but still, this was an insult to his pride. "You will regret this, gweilo!"
And with that, Sun Tzu Wang once more ran with his tail between his legs. His lackeys called after him before following suit. Oersted watched with a deep breath, letting it go once he finally relaxed his stance. He then proceeded to place Brion back in the hilt before putting the armor back on his back while lifting the bag of produce. He looked back towards Chan to see if she was alright.
She appeared so, yet she appeared disappointed.
"Mine apologies for that display, lady Chan." He apologized to her. "No doubt those thugs had ruined thy plans for the eve."
"No, hardly such a thing happened." She replied, dissuading him of such a notion. "True, I would have preferred we walk together longer, but it's clear I should return to my sisters and head home for the night. Leaving them to their own devices for too long would only lead to trouble."
"I understand." The knight nodded. "The last time we would get together like this, this would perhaps be. So to our own lives, we should return–"
"Who said this would be the last time?"
That question threw Oersted for a loop.
"So those ruffians cut us off from one full night. It's hardly the end of the world." Chan shrugged. "We'll simply try again tomorrow."
"T-Tomorrow?" He asked. "Thou art certain of this?"
"I'm more than certain." She nodded. "After all, being handily beaten twice is sure to keep someone like that 'Tiger King' hiding under a rock like the roach he truly is. We won't have to fear any interruptions from him anytime soon."
"Tis an optimistic way of perceiving this… but admire it, I do nonetheless." The knight admitted with a smile. "So then, lady Chan, may we meet again in Yunfa? Perhaps we can do more than a nightly stroll, if inclined you would be."
Smiling back, the woman replied, "But of course. My sisters and I will still be entertaining locally for a while, so we have all the time we need for each other. Now, just as a gift for before…~"
She then moved over towards Oersted, leaned forward, and then kissed him on the cheek. The former champion of Lucrece froze solid, pupils dilated, and mouth slightly ajar. His eyes could barely blink as he was struck dumb, barely able to register what just happened. Was this what Pogo felt like when Beru did the same to him? The reaction Chan had found adorable, and she giggled at the sight of it.
"Come tomorrow, perhaps that may happen without needing to be a reward." She flirted before turning around and waving. "See you then, Oersted~."
She then walked back to Yunfa, strutting her hips as she did with a parting wink. Oersted, left by himself, subconsciously brought his hand to the cheek she had pecked. To actually be given such a favor by a maiden fair. He had never dreamed of such a thing in all his life amidst his desires to become a hero like great sir Hasshe. Not even from his beloved princess had he ever thought to receive one from.
His heart skipped a beat in his chest. Could he be…?
His memories flashed. Should he be…?
"...Tomorrow." He told himself. "Tomorrow we shall see…"
For now, it was time for him to finish his errand. He had a bit of explaining to do for his tardiness, after all.
—-
…Another weakling weeded from the rest of his disciples.
How many years had it been since he had cleansed this temple of the Wan Tan Na Bei pretenders and had rechristened it as the school of the Indomitable Fist? How many pretenders had come crawling to him for the promise of power and proved unworthy of it? How many showed promise, only for their weakness to lead to their deaths? How much more must he stain his fists with the filthy blood of the weak?
He watched as more of his acolytes carried away the corpse he had made. At the very least, the bodies of the unworthy made for decent fertilizer for his gardens. Some use had to be made out of them. Otherwise, they would just be taking up space. He was fortunate that was the last pretender he had to deal with today.
He fetched a handkerchief and wiped the blood from his fist. He had only grown stronger since the day he had conquered the Wan Tan Na Bei school, and his prestige grew alongside it. His appearance, however, barely did. His hair had shifted from its previous black to its current purple, as did the prior blacks on his attire. Even so, he still retained the appearance of his youth, now focused with greater power.
It would not be long now before he had enough of the strongest people in all of China. Once he had the strongest disciples in his school, he would move forward with creating true change. Wan Tan Na Bei was but the first stepping stone. The people who currently ruled China were still cowards hiding behind status and birth. Those who bent the knee to monsters such as Da Ji.
Those who hid behind the truly strong without standing for themselves.
Yes… very soon. All will change.
"I have returned, Master."
He recognized the voice. His oldest compatriot and the strongest of all his disciples, despite his age. He sat back upon his throne, watching his staunchest ally approach before taking his seat at the table. He could see all but one of those seats were empty. No doubt living their civilian lives until the time will finally come.
"Welcome back." He said to the wizened one. "It is a surprise to see you here. I thought you would rest at your home until you were summoned with the others."
"I admit, I was honestly expecting that myself." The old one chuckled while stroking his beard. "However, I do bring rather… unexpected news."
"And does it concern the Imperial Fist?" The master laid a cheek upon his fist. "You know full well that matters around this mountain have long since grown silent. Outside of ruffians in Wong, a food thief in Yunfa, and a scampering bandit outside our walls, there is nothing that merits concern. Mount Aspiration, for all that it once was, has grown weak."
"That may not be the case anymore."
That caught the master's attention. Raising his head from his fist, he focused entirely on his longest living ally. This may have been interesting news after all.
"Elaborate." He told him.
"The Xin Shan Quan is being practiced once more." The aged one said, making his master's eyes widen in shock. "The local Shifu still lives among us, practicing the art. He has taken guests into his home, and three students into his school. He plans on passing his art to a successor."
This was indeed something he had not anticipated. To think, after all this time, the Heart of the Mountain would somehow survive in spite of the tragedy that befell it long ago. All right under his nose. He slacked in his foresight. A mistake he would not make again.
"Hm…" He had to make sure everything was still going according to plan. "Has he interfered with us in any way?"
"No." The old man shook his head. "He is blissfully unaware of us, focused too much on making sure his waning years mean something. The old fool hasn't suspected a single thing."
"The desperation of a sentimental relic." The master chuckled dismissively with his compatriot. "The Earthen Heart has had its time, and it had failed to do what had mattered most for its survival. Hearing its unexpected survival is akin to hearing its death throes at this point."
"Then shall we proceed with trampling it underfoot, master?" The old man asked. "As they are now, its destruction and assured demise should be easy."
"No."
That answer surprised the aged compatriot.
"Oh?" He blinked. "It is unheard of for you to be merciful, master. Do you pity that school due to—"
"No." The master cut him off. "It is not the right time. Let the Shifu train his students. Then, once they had learned all he can teach, we shall put them to the test. After all, if they cannot stand against the Indomitable Fist, then there is no use keeping them around. At least then, the Xin Shan Quan kung fu will finally die with dignity."
The master brought his hand up and clenched it into a fist. It burned with white hot flames as it had long ago with the death of Na Bei. His hatred for the weak reinvigorated, mixed with nostalgia over old names long past. A school that should have stayed buried. And this time, he would be certain it remained forgotten, just as it had long ago.
Their ashes will again scatter to the winds.
—-
Well, it took a while (not to mention having to suffer through a couple internet outages), but this seventh chapter is finally here! As you might have noticed, I've spent more time on this chapter really developing Oersted since it was at this point in the Imperial China that they sorta developed the students alongside the Shifu. Why not the Prehistory characters? Well, technically while their story ended with the Prehistory arc, their presence is still required for Oersted's journey and for everything that's going to happen in the future, especially since the simplicity of their arc was to get Oersted back into the groove of hero-ing. That being said, I do hope to develop Zaki's infatuation with Lei more outside of some brief exchanges on his part. Maybe when they have more scenes to themselves, if possible.
I will admit the lion's share of that sort of development did go to Oersted and Chan, but I think you all might have an idea of where that might end up leading to. Not to mention Oersted's own interactions with the Shifu as well. After all, now that we've basically gone past the training montage, the next chapter is where things are going to get tenser. But in the midst of it all, will the actions Oersted takes, on purpose or otherwise, change things? We'll just have to find out next time.
Also, for certain parts of the chapter, I do have some music in mind for certain scenes. While you can expect the proper music during the training montages with the Shifu and his students, 'The Shifu Descends from the Mount' and 'Clash in China' for example, when Oersted is recounting his tale to the Shifu, you can hear 'On Broken Wings'. 'Kiss of Jealousy' when the students spar against the Prehistory boys. Then, once Oersted is left on his errands, you can hear 'The Home of Dragons' from KH2, specifically the 2.5 version, and 'Fields of Honor' while the Sisters Three are putting on their performance. From there, Oersted and Chan's date would have an instrumental of 'Girl Worth Fighting For' before leading to Oersted's battle with Sun Tzu Wang having 'Heroic Struggle' as the background music. The conclusion of Oersted and Chan's date would probably have an instrumental of 'Reflection' to keep up with the Mulan references (yeah, I'm using a movie that came out four years after the original game, but hey), and then end it with either Tai Lung or Lord Shen's music for the last scene of the chapter. Hopefully this adds to the experience of the chapter for you guys.
Of course, the next chapter is probably going to be a while. There's gonna be two one shots on AO3 and another chapter of Nicktoons & Disney Heroes UNITE! before we get to the drama again.
Thanks to Akito-the-Boxer for beta-reading this chapter and to The Lord of Pages for helping descriptions for Lin and Xian. See you all next time!
