Chapter 7 : Patrol Preparations
Leo woke up early, around five o'clock, the quiet of the morning enveloping him. As he shifted slightly, he felt the weight of Tigress and Panther's arms draped over him. Their peaceful breaths were soft and steady, indicating they were still deep in sleep. Viper, ever the playful one, had rolled into his lap, curling up comfortably.
He gently set her on the pillow beside him, careful not to wake the others. After a moment, Leo changed into his normal clothes, the fabric feeling cool against his skin as he dressed quickly and quietly.
Before he left the room, he left a note on the bedside table:
"Gone to patrol the city. Be back later."
With a final glance at his friends, Leo slipped out of the room, determined to clear his mind as he walked through the still, quiet streets of Gongmen City.
The morning sun had begun to rise higher in the sky by the time the three girls—Tigress, Panther, and Viper—woke up. They groggily rubbed their eyes and stretched, noticing the note Leo had left behind. As they read it, a mix of emotions crossed their faces. They knew Leo well enough by now to understand that he needed space, but they still couldn't help but feel concerned.
"I'm starting to think we might need to follow him," Tigress said with a soft frown, knowing Leo's habit of slipping away when things weighed on his mind.
"I agree," Panther added, her brow furrowed in thought. "But we can't keep pushing him. He'll come around when he's ready."
"Maybe we should give him some time," Viper suggested, always the calm voice in their group. "But we can't let him isolate himself too much."
The three of them continued their quiet discussion, but unbeknownst to them, Leo had already gone on his way—no sooner than when the first light of dawn had cracked the horizon.
10:00 AM
Five hours had passed since Leo slipped out of the hotel, leaving his friends behind to sleep. His feet moved through the quiet streets of Gongmen City, his mind swirling with thoughts of Master El's funeral and the promise he'd made all those years ago. The cold morning air did little to calm his troubled mind.
Leo had already made his way past the familiar roads and through the city gates. He met up with Jie, who had been overseeing the work of the remaining prisoners—those black wolves and apes who had once served Lord Shen and Prince Sying. Their heads hung low as they worked, dragging the remains of a destroyed helicopter from a battle several months ago. The wreckage had been left abandoned for too long, and the prisoners were now tasked with clearing it away as a form of punishment.
Jie stood nearby, watching over the prisoners with a calm, authoritative gaze. Her posture was relaxed, but her presence commanded respect. She turned when she noticed Leo approaching, giving him a quiet nod.
"You're up early," she remarked, her voice neutral but warm. "I didn't expect to see you here."
Leo returned her nod, his eyes scanning the work being done. "I needed some air," he said simply. His gaze shifted to the prisoners, his eyes lingering on the broken helicopter. "It seems like there's still a lot of cleaning up to do."
Jie followed his gaze. "This is their responsibility," she said with a shrug, "and it helps keep them busy. There's still a lot of unrest after what happened with Lord Shen and Prince Sying. We need to remind them of their place."
Leo glanced over at the prisoners again, his thoughts distant. The sight of them dragging the wreckage stirred something within him, but he couldn't quite pinpoint what. They were paying the price for their past actions, yet the lingering feeling of unfinished business still hung in the air.
Jie studied him for a moment, sensing his unease. "You're not here just to watch the cleanup," she said, her tone softening. "Is something on your mind?"
Leo didn't immediately respond. He rubbed the back of his neck, unsure of how to put his thoughts into words. "I'm still trying to figure out what I'm supposed to do next," he admitted quietly. "There's the funeral, but… I don't know if I can face it. I don't know if I'm ready."
Jie nodded, her expression understanding. She had known Leo for a long time, and she knew how deeply he carried his burdens. "You don't have to make a decision now," she said. "But I think you're being harder on yourself than you should be. No one expects you to have all the answers, Leo. You're allowed to grieve in your own way."
Leo met her gaze, a faint sigh escaping his lips. "I promised I wouldn't shed a tear, Jie. Not like everyone else."
Jie's expression softened. "And you think keeping that promise is worth shutting yourself off from everyone else?"
Leo didn't respond immediately. Instead, he looked down at the prisoners once more, watching as they continued their labor. "I don't know," he finally murmured.
Jie walked up beside him, her presence a comforting anchor. "It's okay not to know. It's okay to take your time."
Leo glanced at her, his gaze more vulnerable than usual. "What if I'm not ready to let go?" he asked, almost to himself.
"You don't have to let go just yet," she replied. "You can hold onto whatever you need for as long as you want. But remember, we're all here to help you carry it when you're ready."
For a moment, they stood in silence, the quiet murmur of the city around them a soft background to the weight of their conversation. Leo felt the tension in his shoulders ease slightly, but the weight of his promise was still heavy on his heart.
Meanwhile, back at the hotel, the three girls—Tigress, Panther, and Viper—were beginning to plan their next move. They were determined to help Leo, no matter what it took.
But for now, Leo remained focused on his walk with Jie, his thoughts still clouded, yet grateful for the quiet presence of his old friend by his side.
The morning sun had just begun to break over the skyline of Gongmen City, casting soft golden hues across the streets. Inside the hotel, the sound of shuffling sheets and quiet whispers filled the air as Tigress, Panther, and Viper stirred from their sleep. Their eyes locked on the note Leo had left behind, a small but significant piece of paper that spoke volumes.
After a quiet breakfast, the trio discussed their next steps. Tigress's furrowed brow showed her concern, while Panther leaned against the window, her arms crossed, deep in thought. Viper, always the tactician, began forming a plan.
"We can't let him keep pushing everyone away like this," Viper said, her voice calm but determined. "We've tried everything we can think of, but we can't give up. Not now."
Tigress nodded, her usual stoic expression betraying her worry. "We've flustered him, but Leo's not the type to change easily. If we really want him to come to Master El's funeral… we'll need to do something different. Something that gets through to him."
Panther added, "It's not about the funeral itself, though. It's about him accepting that it's okay to grieve. We have to remind him that he's not alone."
With a plan loosely in place, the three of them left the hotel, determined to find Leo before the city became too crowded. The streets were still quiet at this hour, and the world felt almost suspended in time. They walked with purpose, eyes scanning the surroundings.
As they rounded a corner, they saw him. Leo was walking ahead, his posture firm and his face unreadable as he spoke to Jie, who stood by him, listening intently. The two of them shared a quiet conversation before Jie gave him a wave and turned toward her own patrol route.
"Goodbye, Jie," Leo called out as she walked away, his tone warm but reserved.
The trio slowed their pace, watching from a distance as Leo continued on his path. Tigress, Panther, and Viper exchanged a brief glance before walking in his direction. They hadn't quite figured out what to say yet, but they knew that they couldn't let him remain distant for too long.
When Leo noticed them approaching, he paused, giving them a slight nod. "Morning," he greeted, though his voice remained as detached as ever.
Tigress crossed her arms, giving him a soft but serious look. "You said you were going to patrol the city, but you didn't say you were avoiding us."
"I'm not avoiding you," Leo replied, his tone still neutral. "I just needed to clear my head."
Viper slithered closer, her eyes narrowing slightly in concern. "Leo, we're worried about you. You've been pushing everyone away for days now. We know why you're not going to the funeral, but that doesn't mean you should handle this alone."
Leo's expression hardened slightly, but there was a brief flicker of hesitation in his eyes. "I'm fine. I don't need to go to the funeral. It won't change anything."
Panther stepped forward, her voice soft but firm. "You're not alone in this, Leo. You're allowed to grieve, and you're allowed to let others help you."
Leo took a deep breath, glancing at each of them in turn. He wasn't angry, but the weight of his own internal struggle was evident in the way he held himself. "I made a promise," he said simply, though his words were tinged with pain.
"Fang?" Tigress asked, her voice gentle but understanding.
Leo didn't respond immediately, but his silence was answer enough. Finally, he spoke again, his voice quiet but resolute. "I promised I wouldn't shed a tear, not for anyone. I've kept that promise for ten years, and I can't break it now."
The trio exchanged looks, each of them silently considering how to approach this delicate topic. Tigress stepped forward again, her voice soft but firm. "You don't have to keep that promise alone, Leo. It's okay to mourn, and it's okay to cry. That's what family is for."
Leo's jaw tightened, but he didn't argue. Instead, he simply nodded, his gaze momentarily softening as he looked at his three companions. "I'll think about it," he said, though it was clear that he wasn't quite ready to let go of the burden he had carried for so long.
With that, he turned and continued his patrol, leaving the three women standing together on the street. They watched him for a moment, knowing that this was a battle that wouldn't be won overnight. But they were determined, and they wouldn't give up.
After all, family was built on persistence, love, and support—even when one of them wasn't ready to admit they needed it.
The morning air was cool and crisp as Leo walked through the streets of Gongmen City, his footsteps echoing softly on the cobblestone paths. His mind was still heavy with thoughts of Master El's upcoming funeral, but he had made a promise to himself: he wouldn't allow it to overwhelm him. Not yet. Not until he had to face it.
He had just parted ways with Jie, the white wolf lieutenant of the Gongmen City Police, who had been his companion for most of the morning. They had been discussing the final clean-up from the remnants of the battle months ago, with Jie making sure everything was accounted for, including prisoners and the destruction caused by Lord Shen and Prince Sying's forces. As their conversation had come to a close, Leo had bid her farewell, thanking her for her efforts.
The walk ahead was his way of clearing his head.
As Leo turned the corner of a narrow alleyway, he couldn't help but notice the quiet presence behind him. Tigress, Panther, and Viper had been following him at a distance ever since he left the hotel earlier that morning. They had read the note he left behind, telling them he was going out to patrol the city alone, but it didn't seem to phase them. He knew they would follow. They cared too much for him to leave him to his thoughts for too long.
Leo sighed, not bothering to glance back. He didn't mind. He knew they would be helpful during this patrol. Despite his attempts to distance himself from the funeral's emotions, the quiet presence of his friends was soothing.
Viper slithered gracefully through the alley behind him, her green body flicking in and out of shadows like a living serpent darting in the wind. Tigress walked with her usual commanding grace, her amber eyes ever-watchful, while Panther stayed closer to Leo's side, her calm demeanor grounding him. Their silent support was palpable, and despite everything, he was thankful for it.
"Did you really think we'd let you patrol this city alone?" Panther asked, her voice light, though there was a hint of concern underlying her words. She had always been intuitive, able to sense when Leo was troubled.
Leo turned his head slightly to glance at her, giving her a small, almost imperceptible smile. "You know me too well," he replied, though his tone was still distant. "I just needed some time to think."
Tigress, always the protector, fell in step beside him. "You can think with us, Leo. We're not leaving your side. Not today."
Viper added, her voice playful yet firm, "Especially after the way we've been keeping you company. We've got your back."
Leo chuckled softly, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "I don't know if I deserve the company, but I'm glad you're here."
The four of them continued their quiet walk, winding through the quieter streets of Gongmen City. Leo's mind flitted between the funeral and the present. He could still see Fang Hua in his thoughts. And yet, he couldn't bring himself to go to the funeral, the weight of the promise he made to himself ten years ago holding him back.
He had sworn that, no matter what, he wouldn't shed a tear for anyone. He couldn't—he wouldn't—be like everyone else. He had always held his emotions close, a barrier between him and the rest of the world. And Master El's passing? It only made the walls around his heart stronger.
But here, walking side-by-side with Tigress, Panther, and Viper, he felt a tug at the corner of his heart. They understood him in a way no one else did. They knew his struggles, his burdens, and they still chose to be there. No questions asked.
Tigress nudged him lightly with her shoulder. "You're not alone, Leo," she said quietly, as if reading his thoughts. "We're here for you. Always."
Leo didn't respond immediately. He just kept walking, allowing her words to settle in. He knew it wasn't about the funeral. It wasn't about the promise he'd made. It was about facing things head-on, surrounded by those who cared about him.
The weight of his promise was still heavy, but maybe—just maybe—he wasn't as alone in this as he had thought.
The streets of Gongmen City stretched out before them, but Leo wasn't looking at them anymore. He was looking ahead, into the future, and for the first time in a long while, he felt a little less burdened by his past.
The spacious halls of the hotel were quiet in the early morning hours, the sun just beginning to rise over the horizon, casting a warm glow through the tall windows. The luxurious décor was even more striking in the soft light, with tapestries of intricate designs hanging along the walls and elegant vases lining the corners of the corridors. It was a place of refined beauty, yet the stillness of the early morning gave the hotel a sense of calm serenity.
Crane and Po walked side-by-side down one of the grand hallways, the soft click of their footsteps echoing in the empty space. Crane had suggested a walk after breakfast—an opportunity to stretch their wings, get a bit of fresh air, and, more importantly, talk. It had been a while since they'd had time alone to just chat, away from the group.
"Feels like this place could host an emperor," Po said, glancing around the corridor. His voice was filled with awe as he marveled at the intricate decorations and grandeur of the hotel. "I don't think I've seen a place this fancy in my entire life."
Crane chuckled softly, his talons clicking lightly on the floor. "Well, it's not exactly designed for a kung fu master like us, but I suppose it'll do. It's definitely a far cry from the Jade Palace. A bit too… fancy for my tastes, honestly."
Po grinned at Crane, nudging him with an elbow. "Come on, admit it. It's nice. You can't tell me you haven't had a moment where you thought about maybe sticking around here for a while."
Crane fluffed his feathers, trying to seem disinterested, but Po could see the small, amused smile tugging at the corners of his beak. "I can appreciate the comfort, sure. But it's not home, Po. It's a little… too much. A bit too… pristine."
Po laughed at that. "I hear you. It's kind of like one of those fancy restaurants where the food is all fancy and small, but you don't really feel full afterward."
"I get that," Crane replied with a nod, his voice still light but thoughtful. "It's just… too much surface. I like the simpler things. You know, a good fight, a good meal, a place to sleep that's comfortable enough to rest. This? This feels like it was built to impress, not to live in."
"Right?" Po said, nodding as he glanced around the hallway again. "I keep expecting someone to walk in with a white glove and tell me I can't touch anything."
Crane raised an eyebrow. "I'm sure there's some truth to that. I feel like I need to take off my shoes just walking down the hall."
Po chuckled, his eyes lighting up with humor. "I thought about it! But I think we'd both get kicked out if we did."
As they walked through the quiet hotel, the two friends discussed the difference between the place they had come to stay and the much more humble surroundings they were used to. They both agreed the hotel was certainly beautiful, but it was a little too… perfect.
"I can see why Leo left this morning," Crane said quietly, his voice more reflective. "He's never been one for excess. He's always been the kind of guy who feels more comfortable in a place that isn't… well, this."
Po nodded, the playful mood shifting for a moment. "Yeah. I get that. Leo's always been a bit of a loner, hasn't he? Even back at the Jade Palace, he never wanted to be the center of attention."
Crane glanced at Po, raising an eyebrow. "And yet, here we are, in a fancy hotel while he's out there walking the streets of the city, doing whatever it is he does when he needs time alone."
"I get it, though," Po said thoughtfully. "He's been through a lot, and this… all of this… it's not helping. The funeral's coming up, and the pressure's building. Maybe this hotel, with its glitz and glamour, is just a little too much for him to handle right now."
Crane's expression softened. "He's not one to show his emotions, but we know that it's eating at him. The death of Master El, the burden of his promise, and all of it. He's been pushing it away for so long. He doesn't want to face it."
Po sighed deeply. "We all handle grief differently. I just hope he knows that no matter what happens, we're here for him. It doesn't matter where we are or what kind of fancy hotel we're in. We're still family."
Crane nodded, his gaze turning serious. "That's true. But we can't force him to face it. Not yet."
As they continued down the hall, they came to a large window that looked out over the city. The streets of Gongmen City stretched far and wide, bathed in the soft glow of the morning sun. Despite the calm outside, there was a palpable tension in the air, one that neither Po nor Crane could ignore.
"Do you think Leo will come to the funeral?" Po asked quietly, looking out over the city. "I mean, we can't force him, but…"
"I don't know," Crane replied honestly. "But I do know that whatever decision he makes, he'll have to make it on his own. And when he's ready to face it, we'll be there."
Po nodded slowly, his thoughts lingering on their friend. "Yeah. He's not alone, even if he feels like it sometimes."
Crane gave a small smile. "Exactly."
As they continued their walk, the two friends silently agreed on one thing—they would support Leo no matter what, even if it meant letting him figure things out on his own.
The warm noontime sun hung high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the city as Leo, Panther, Viper, and Tigress stood atop a rooftop, looking out over the sprawling landscape of Gongmen City. The heat of the day was just beginning to make its presence known, the streets below already filled with the bustle of city life. But from their elevated position, everything seemed quieter, more detached from the noise.
Leo stood at the edge of the roof, arms crossed, eyes lost in the distant horizon. The city below him appeared alive, but his mind seemed far away. The wind ruffled his hair as he stood there in silence, his thoughts clearly elsewhere.
Panther, standing just a few steps behind, observed him with a knowing gaze. She had seen Leo like this before, quiet, distant, caught in his own thoughts. She had been through enough herself to understand when someone wasn't ready to face what lay beneath the surface.
"Does patrolling this city remind you of the times we used to patrol Wuji City back in the human world?" Panther asked, her voice gentle but probing. The question was simple, but there was a hint of nostalgia in her tone.
Leo turned slightly to face her, his expression softening, though still distant. He nodded slowly. "Yeah, it does. Wuji City… it was different, but the patrols, the rhythm of the streets, the people—it feels the same here. Just another place to protect." He paused, his gaze dropping for a moment before he continued. "But sometimes it's hard not to think about what came before."
Panther could hear the underlying sadness in his voice, and she knew it wasn't just the city that weighed on him. It was something deeper, something from his past. She stepped closer to him, her voice quiet but understanding. "I know what you mean," she said. "It's not easy to move on from what's behind us. But sometimes, the present is where we need to focus."
The two women standing nearby—Tigress and Viper—had been listening quietly, but now Tigress spoke up, her voice calm yet curious. "It would be nice to meet both of your teams. Crimson Dawn and Crimson Dusks. I imagine you both worked well together, especially when times were tough."
Panther's eyes brightened at the mention of her old team. A smile crept onto her face as she spoke. "We did. Crimson Dawn wasn't just a team. We were a family. We fought together, bled together, and protected this city together. Leo's Crimson Dusks… they were the same. They were a family too."
Viper, who had been quietly observing, slithered forward, her eyes gleaming. "Sounds like something worth seeing," she mused. "Maybe we could meet them sometime."
Leo turned to face them all, a faint, nostalgic smile appearing. "Maybe," he said, his voice soft. "But the past… it's tricky. Some things are best left there."
Panther nodded in understanding. "I get that. Sometimes it's better to let the past rest."
There was a brief moment of silence as the four of them stood together on the rooftop, looking out over the city. The streets were teeming with life, but here, in this quiet corner, they were still, caught in their own thoughts. The weight of past memories hung in the air, unspoken but understood.
Finally, Tigress spoke again, her tone steady and firm. "We're here, Leo. Whatever it is that's weighing on you, we'll help you carry it. You don't have to face it alone."
Leo looked at Tigress, then Panther, and finally at Viper. In that moment, he felt a warmth spread through him, something he hadn't realized he'd been missing. Even though he wasn't ready to confront everything on his mind, having them by his side made it a little easier to face the day.
For now, that was enough.
The sun shone brightly above as Leo, Panther, Tigress, and Viper stood together on the rooftop. After a brief talk about their old teams, Crimson Dawn and Crimson Dusks, the conversation shifted as Tigress glanced around, her brow furrowing slightly in thought.
"Hey, Panther," she asked, her voice carrying a hint of curiosity. "Where's Blake right now?"
Panther turned toward her with a calm smile. "He's out doing some grocery shopping. Said he was going to pick up a few things for dinner later."
Leo nodded, stretching his arms slightly. "Alright," he said. "I'll catch up with you all in half an hour. I've got a quick stop to make." Without waiting for a reply, Leo spread his fiery wings wide, the edges catching the light as he prepared to take off.
The city below looked busy, the streets teeming with life, and Leo was ready to tackle the errand. With a slight push of his wings, he took off toward the bustling markets, the wind rushing past him as he flew, the city spreading out beneath him.
The others watched him soar off, knowing he'd be back soon enough.
he warm noontime sun bathed the bustling market square, and Leo landed gracefully, his fiery wings folding behind him as he touched down in the middle of the lively street. Stalls lined the pathways, selling fruits, vegetables, fabrics, and trinkets, the air filled with the sounds of vendors calling out to potential customers.
As Leo adjusted himself, a voice broke through the noise, calling his name.
"Leo!"
The voice was familiar, and turning toward it, Leo saw a young man in his twenties approaching him. The man was wearing a simple black top, blue jeans, and dark gray sneakers, his black hair cut into a short mullet. But what stood out most was the blood-red shard embedded in the center of his forehead—a stark contrast against his brown eyes and the rest of his appearance.
Leo smiled as he saw his old friend.
"I heard you were here shopping, Blake," Leo said, his tone warm.
Blake returned the smile, his expression both easygoing and knowing. "Been keeping an eye out for you."
The two men made their way through the market, the hum of the crowd fading as they found a quiet bench off to the side. They sat down, and Blake immediately relaxed, his gaze thoughtful as he turned to Leo.
"I know why you're not going to the funeral," Blake said after a moment, his voice softer but firm. "It's because of that promise you made to Fang, right? Ten years ago."
Leo was silent for a beat, surprised only by how quickly Blake had pieced it together. He had always known his friend had an uncanny ability to read him. Despite all the time that had passed and the different world they now inhabited, some things still remained the same.
"I wasn't surprised you figured it out," Leo finally replied, his tone distant. "It's been weighing on me for years. I promised her I wouldn't shed a tear, and I won't break it. Not for anyone."
Blake nodded solemnly, his gaze distant as if understanding the weight of Leo's words. "I get it. But sometimes holding onto a promise so tightly can… hurt you in ways you don't see coming. Maybe it's time to let go of the past, Leo. It doesn't mean you forget. It just means you can move forward."
Leo looked down, the thought lingering in his mind but not quite finding a home in his heart. "I can't just forget. Not after everything. Not after what she—what we—went through."
Blake placed a hand on Leo's shoulder, his expression gentle but earnest. "I know. But it's okay to mourn, Leo. It's okay to let go."
They sat in quiet for a moment, the weight of the conversation lingering between them. Leo glanced at Blake, his expression unreadable, before standing up. He needed to return soon, but a part of him felt the conversation, even if brief, had done something—stirred something in him. The possibility of moving forward.
"I'll think about it," Leo finally said. "But no promises."
Blake gave a half-smile, his eyes glinting with understanding. "No pressure, Leo. Just… know I'm here. Whenever you need to talk. Or, you know, not talk."
It was now twelve fifteen, and the market square continued to bustle with life around Leo and Blake. Leo turned to his friend, his gaze thoughtful.
"So, are you going to the funeral?" Leo asked, his tone casual but with a hint of curiosity.
Blake nodded without hesitation. "Yeah, I am. Even though I never met Master El, I've heard a lot of good things about him. I figure it's the least I can do, you know? Honor his memory."
Leo regarded him for a moment, contemplating his friend's words. He could respect that. The idea of honoring someone, even without knowing them personally, was something he could understand.
After spending the last fifteen minutes catching up, Leo stood up, stretching slightly. "Well, it was good seeing you again, Blake," he said, giving his friend a nod. "But I have to find Tigress, Panther, and Viper. They'll be wondering where I am."
Blake nodded in return, watching as Leo spread his fiery wings, the flames bright against the midday sun. Leo gave him one last glance before taking off into the sky, his figure disappearing into the distance.
As Blake stood there, his attention shifted to the approaching figures of Jie, Kiba, and Kuo. They walked toward him, their expressions neutral but friendly. Blake gave them a small nod as they closed the distance, but his thoughts were still on Leo, flying off toward his next destination.
After saying goodbye to Blake, Leo made his way through the bustling streets, the midday sun shining overhead. He didn't have to search for long before he spotted Tigress, Panther, and Viper walking toward one of the nearby food stalls. They were chatting softly among themselves, but there was still an underlying tension in the air, as if the events of the next few days weighed heavily on all of them.
"Hey," Leo called out as he approached. The three women turned and stopped in their tracks, their expressions brightening as they saw him.
"We were just about to grab some lunch," Panther said, a smile tugging at her lips. "Care to join us?"
Leo nodded. "Actually, I was thinking I'd get lunch for all of us."
They made their way to the food stand together, where Leo quickly purchased a variety of dishes. He was efficient with his choices, paying for the meals without saying much. The vendor gave him a courteous nod as he handed over the food, and Leo returned the gesture with a brief, impassive glance.
As they walked away from the stand, lunch in hand, Tigress sidled up to Leo, her steps quiet. She reached up and placed a soft kiss on his cheek, her touch gentle.
"Thanks, Leo," she said quietly, her voice tender, though she didn't expect much in return.
Leo didn't smile. He didn't even respond with more than a brief acknowledgment, his gaze fixed ahead as if trying to focus on anything other than the growing tension within him.
"Yeah," he said, his tone flat. "No problem."
The four of them continued on, their steps in sync as they found a nearby park to sit and eat. Even as the sun bathed the city in warmth, the undercurrent of the funeral preparations and Leo's refusal to face them lingered like a shadow, threatening to pull him back into his thoughts. Despite the peaceful surroundings, Leo remained distant, his attention elsewhere as his mind replayed the promise he made to Fang all those years ago.
As the afternoon sunlight bathed the city in its warm glow, Panther glanced at Tigress and Viper, a somber expression crossing her face.
"Don't forget," Panther reminded them softly, her voice tinged with an unspoken weight. "The wake for Master El is later this afternoon."
Tigress and Viper nodded, their faces reflecting a mixture of solemn understanding and quiet resolve. They both knew how important the upcoming event was, and yet, there was an unspoken tension in the air, especially with Leo's absence still hanging over everything.
Leo, meanwhile, didn't speak. He sat in silence, the lunch before him nearly untouched as his mind wandered. The promise he made to Fang all those years ago seemed to echo louder in his thoughts, blocking out the sounds of the world around him. His gaze remained unfocused, eyes distant as he listened to the conversation happening around him, but the words didn't seem to reach him.
Tigress and Viper exchanged glances, knowing that Leo was lost in his thoughts, caught in his inner battle. They didn't push him for answers; they simply let him be, hoping that eventually, he would find his way back to them.
For now, though, the silence between them remained, filled with unspoken words and the heavy weight of grief that loomed ever closer.
After lunch, Leo and Tigress walked side by side through the city, the midday sun casting long shadows on the cobbled streets. Panther and Viper had left to patrol the area, leaving Leo and Tigress in a quiet, contemplative silence. The soft sounds of the bustling market faded into the background as they made their way down the familiar streets of Gongmen City, neither of them speaking.
Tigress, always observant, couldn't help but notice the distant look in Leo's eyes. He had been quiet since their meal, and it seemed like the weight of the promise to Fang was still hanging heavily over him. She knew he was struggling with something — something he wouldn't say aloud, but it was written all over him.
After a while, Tigress broke the silence.
"Leo…" she started softly, her voice almost a whisper against the steady rhythm of their footsteps. "Are you going to the wake at least?"
Leo didn't answer right away. He continued walking, his mind still on the same thoughts he'd been carrying for days. Finally, after a long pause, he spoke, his voice flat and unwavering.
"No," Leo said simply. "I'm not going."
Tigress didn't seem surprised. She had expected it, in fact. She knew him too well. Leo had made that promise to Fang ten years ago, and nothing, not even the passing of someone like Master El, could erase that commitment. She'd seen him face countless challenges, but this was something deeper, something that went beyond mere duty or honor. It was a wound that had never fully healed.
The two of them continued walking until they reached a bench in a quiet park corner. Without saying a word, Leo sat down first, and Tigress joined him, sitting beside him in the late afternoon light. The city buzzed around them, but they remained still, lost in the gravity of their own thoughts.
"Leo," Tigress began again, her tone more gentle this time. "I know it's hard… but sometimes, you have to let go of the promises we made in the past. They don't have to define us forever."
Leo sighed deeply, his gaze fixed on the ground. He clenched his fists, still unwilling to look her in the eyes.
"I can't break that promise, Tigress," he said quietly, his voice heavy with regret. "I just… I can't."
Tigress placed a hand on his arm, her touch steadying him. "I understand. I just wish you wouldn't carry it alone."
Leo looked up at her then, his eyes filled with a mixture of gratitude and pain. He didn't respond, but the silence between them was comfortable for once — not filled with tension, but with understanding.
For now, they sat there in quiet companionship, the city moving on around them, while Leo continued to wrestle with his own inner conflict. He knew deep down that he couldn't ignore the wake forever, but he wasn't ready to face it — not yet.
Panther and Viper, having finished their patrol, made their way through the city, weaving through the bustling streets. As the afternoon wore on, they arrived at a small plaza in the heart of Gongmen City. There, they found Monkey and Mantis talking with Jie and Kiba, the two white wolf siblings.
Jie was known for her quiet authority and easygoing nature, and her presence always seemed to bring a calm energy to any room or group she entered. Even in moments of tension, she carried an air of serene confidence, making it clear that, while she was always approachable, she also commanded respect. Today, though, her usual calm demeanor was slightly subdued, the weight of the funeral looming over her.
Kiba, standing beside her, was more reserved, his arms crossed as he listened intently to Monkey and Mantis. His sharp gaze flicked over to Panther and Viper as they approached, his expression unreadable. Jie, however, immediately noticed them and gave a subtle nod of acknowledgment.
"Panther, Viper," Jie greeted warmly, her voice calm but with a hint of the underlying seriousness of the conversation. "How's everything on the patrol?"
"We've covered most of the routes," Panther responded, her tone steady. "It's quiet, but there's an underlying tension in the air with the wake coming up. People are on edge."
Viper, ever the observant one, added, "It's not just about Master El's death. It's like the city is holding its breath, waiting for something to happen."
Kiba sighed, his eyes narrowing slightly. "People know more than they're letting on. This whole situation… It's complicated. Some of us aren't sure what we're facing in the long run."
Jie's gaze turned toward the horizon, her eyes thoughtful. She didn't respond immediately, but her silence spoke volumes. She understood better than anyone how much of this was about more than just the funeral.
"We've all felt it," she said eventually, her tone softer but filled with authority. "But there's nothing we can do to change it. We can't force Leo to confront his feelings, but we can be there for him in other ways."
Panther shifted slightly, taking in Jie's words. "I agree. But that doesn't mean we should leave him to deal with this alone. We need him there, especially for the wake."
Jie glanced at Kiba and then back at the group. "He's carrying a heavy burden. One that none of us can fully understand. He'll come around in his own time. But we have to give him the space to do so."
The group stood in a quiet pause, each of them reflecting on what was said. The promise Leo made to Fang, the weight of Master El's death, and the uncertainty of the future all weighed heavily on their minds.
"Let's hope he comes to the wake," Kiba finally spoke, his voice low. "We need closure. We need peace."
Monkey, who had been watching the exchange quietly, broke the tension with a shrug. "We'll deal with that when the time comes. For now, we focus on getting things ready."
With that, the group began to disperse, the weight of the upcoming wake still lingering in the air, but each of them moving forward with the quiet resolve to do what they could, no matter the outcome.
The afternoon light filtered through the curtains as Leo and Tigress returned to the hotel. Their footsteps echoed in the hallway, and when they stepped into Leo's room, they were greeted by Panther and Viper, who were already waiting for them. The quiet tension of the day seemed to settle around the group, each of them knowing the weight of the impending wake.
Tigress immediately began to make herself comfortable, and Panther was already on her way to the wardrobe, picking out something appropriate for the occasion. Viper slithered over to the corner of the room, her emerald scales catching the light as she looked out the window, deep in thought.
Leo sat down at the edge of the bed, his mind far from the task at hand. He was still thinking about the promise he had made all those years ago. The thought of attending Master El's wake stirred a conflict within him, something he couldn't shake. He had been resolute ever since, but the memories were difficult to escape.
Tigress noticed his distant expression and turned to him as she buttoned up her shirt. "Are you sure you don't want to come to the wake, Leo?" she asked softly. There was a hint of concern in her voice, but it was clear that she wasn't pushing him, only wanting to know if his decision was final.
Leo met her gaze for a moment before shaking his head. "I'm sure. I made a promise a long time ago… and I intend to keep it."
Tigress stood there for a second, her expression softening, as if she understood, but couldn't help but feel disappointed. She had hoped that he would change his mind. "I understand," she said quietly, then added, "But you know, it's okay to let go sometimes. Master El would have wanted you to have peace."
Leo nodded, but didn't say anything more. The silence between them lingered for a moment, neither of them needing to speak more on the subject. It was clear that this was something Leo had to do in his own time, in his own way. Tigress gave him a small, understanding smile before she turned to join Panther, who was now pulling a dress from the wardrobe.
At that moment, there was a knock at the door. The sound was sharp, cutting through the quiet. Panther moved to answer it, revealing Blake, Jie, Kiba, and Kuo standing in the hallway. Their expressions were serious but kind, each of them already prepared for the ceremony.
"It's time for the wake," Jie said, her voice calm, the weight of the day in her tone. She stepped forward, giving a polite nod to Tigress, Panther, and Viper, before looking at Leo, as if to check if he would reconsider.
Leo didn't look up. He had made his decision, and he wasn't going to waver. He didn't want to bring the others into his struggles, but they all understood.
Tigress stepped forward then, her eyes locking with Leo's for a moment, her expression softening. She reached out, brushing her fingers against his cheek, and leaned in to kiss him gently on the lips. The kiss was brief but meaningful. She stepped back with a tender smile, and her voice lowered to a whisper. "We'll be back soon. And remember… we'll keep flustering you like we did last night."
Leo couldn't help the blush that spread across his face at her teasing words. The warmth of her affection lingered on his skin as he watched her, Panther, and Viper head for the door. Their laughter echoed softly as they exchanged a few words with Blake and the others. He watched them go, feeling an overwhelming sense of solitude as the door clicked shut behind them.
For a long moment, Leo stood in the quiet room, the weight of their departure pressing down on him. He had always appreciated their care for him, but sometimes the distance he kept from them was the only way he could protect them—and himself—from the turmoil inside. Master El's funeral was a reminder of everything he had lost, and though he had promised not to shed a tear, there was still a part of him that longed to let go, to release the burden he'd been carrying for so long.
But that wasn't his way.
With a quiet sigh, Leo sat back down on the bed, looking out the window. The city was bathed in soft, golden light as the late afternoon approached. He could hear the sounds of the streets outside, the bustling life continuing as usual, but inside, it felt like a moment suspended in time—one last quiet pause before everything changed again.
Author's Note: What do you all think? I hope you all enjoy this chapter, everyone! Don't forget to Follow, Favorite, leave a review and PM!