A Warrior's Rise Remake

[KingKovu44]

This is the long-in-planning remake of my Kung Fu Panda fanfic "A Warrior's Rise". Thanks to JackSkellington, who has been listening to me talk about this story recently. No bashing or flaming please.
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Kung Fu Panda: A Warrior's Rise


Dramatis Personae


Po: The Dragon Warrior (Panda male)

Tigress: Martial artist, Love interest and wife of Po (Tiger female)

Shifu: Kung Fu master, Father of Tigress (Red panda male)

Oogway: Inventor of Kung Fu (Tortoise male)

Viper: Martial artist, Best friend of Po and Tigress (Green tree viper female)

Mantis: Martial artist (Praying mantis male)

Monkey: Martial artist (Golden languar monkey male)

Crane: Martial artist (Crane male)

Tai Lung: Evil warrior (Snow leopard male)

Lord Shen: Evil warlord (Peacock male)

Mei-Lin: Martial artist, Daughter of Po and Tigress (Tiger female)

Huan Ning: Martial artist, Daughter of Po and Tigress, Sister of Mei-Lin (Panda female)

Cheng-Ti: Martial artist, Love interest and husband of Mei-Lin (Snow leopard male)

Wei-Wen: Martial artist, Love interest and husband of Huan Ning (Red fox male)

Xiu-Fen: Martial artist, Mother of Wei-Wen (Red fox female)

Ming-Jin: Silk merchant, Father of Wei-Wen (Red fox male)

Mei Ling: Martial artist, Wife of Crane, Mother of Cheng-Ti (Chinese mountain cat female)

[KingKovu44]

Chapter 1


Five-year old Tigress looked out the window of the Jade Palace. At the moment, she was in a neutral mood. Today was the second anniversary of the day she had been adopted by her father, who was a Red panda. Her father was Master Shifu, the great Kung Fu teacher and student of Master Oogway, the inventor of Kung Fu. Despite the species difference, they loved their daughter very much. Tigress was also the student of her father and showed great Kung Fu skill. At that moment, Shifu walked into the room. For a long moment, he looked at his young daughter. His mind began to flash back to Tigress’ adoption.

[Flashback]

Master Oogway traveled with Shifu to a village that had just been attacked by a vicious gang of crocodile bandits. They were heading over to offer aid to the survivors. However, at the moment, many things weighed on the Red panda’s mind. First and foremost was Tai Lung. Just a year ago, the vicious Snow leopard had slaughtered the valley in his attempt to get the Dragon scroll. Oogway had subdued him, and now he was locked away at Chor-Ghom prison. Noticing his student’s distraction, Oogway brought him back to the present.

“Shifu, is all well?” he asked.

“No, Master. I cannot forget about what Tai Lung did,” Shifu replied.

Oogway went into a lecture about remembering the good parts of life. When it was over, they arrived at the village and began their mission. As they walked, they passed a house. The door was slightly agape, and the crying of a small child could be heard. They entered, and found the bleeding bodies of two dead tigers, a white male and a normal-colored female. Near them was their cub, a three-year girl who was colored like her mother. She was wailing. It was in this moment that Shifu’s fatherly instinct kicked in. He approached the girl and placed his paws on her shoulder. He then decided that he would adopt her as his own.

“There, there, Daddy’s here,” he said softly.

She instantly stopped crying. Shifu then looked at Oogway.

“Master, as you know, I am not married and therefore cannot have children. If you agree, I want to take in this young tigress,” Shifu stated.

Oogway gave his approval, and the little girl was adopted as Shifu’s daughter.

[End flashback]

Tigress turned at the sound of Shifu calling her name.

“Yes Daddy?” she said.

“Did you do your punching exercises like I told you?” Shifu replied.

“Yes sir,” she told him.

Shifu smiled. Ever since his last fight with Tai Lung, the Kung Fu master had tried to make it a point to avoid extreme emotional attachments. However, Tigress had become the one exception. He absolutely loved the little cub. He chuckled as Tigress came up and nuzzled him under the chin, purring playfully as she did so.

“Ah yes, I can see that you’ll be a mighty warrior someday,” he said.

The rest of the day passed in peace and quiet. That night, Tigress was tucked into her bed. Shifu kissed her, and then left. The little cub went to bed with sweet dreams, dreams of one day being a great and mighty warrior like her father. The next morning, after she woke up, bathed and had breakfast, she got ready for training. Today, she would be practicing kick attacks. She and Shifu entered the training room. Tigress bowed, then began. As usual, she was a brilliant student. Later that day, while Tigress played outside in the courtyard, Shifu took notice of how lonely she seemed. It became obvious after she began to play with a bamboo pole as if she were fighting someone, but suddenly tossed it aside in frustration. It was at that time that Oogway took notice of Shifu.

“What is the matter, my friend?” the wise old tortoise began.

Shifu sighed.

“Tigress is lonely,” he said.

Oogway thought for a moment.

“Perhaps taking another student is in order? A student her age could be a friend for her,” he suggested.

Shifu thought about it for a long moment.

“But Master, where would a suitable student be found?” he asked.

Oogway smiled.

“Be patient, Shifu. I sense one will come sooner than you think,” he said.

Shifu was left to ponder his words as the tortoise left. The Red panda didn’t have to wait long, because, the very next day, a goose named Mr. Ping showed up with his six-year old son. What made the duo unusual was that Ping’s son was a panda. His name was Po. Mr. Ping explained to Shifu about Po’s interest in Kung Fu, and Po gave a small demonstration. Shifu was impressed.

“You know, I have a daughter around the same age. She has some issues with loneliness. Perhaps your son could be a friend for her?” Shifu continued.

“Sounds good to me,” Mr. Ping replied.

Shifu nodded, and then looked at Po.

“Welcome, Po. I am Master Shifu. I’m sure you’ve heard of me,” he began.

“Yeah! You’re the greatest master in all China!” Po exclaimed.

Shifu smiled at the boy’s enthusiasm.

“Very well. You are a student of mine. Now, I will take you to meet my daughter,” Shifu told him.

As Shifu continued talking with Ping, Po followed Shifu to the courtyard.

“Tigress, honey, you have a new playmate,” he called out.

Tigress turned to see a young panda boy standing by her mother. He came over.

“Tigress, this is Po. He’s a new student here, and I want you to make him feel welcome,” Shifu explained.

“Yes sir,” Tigress replied.

Shifu left, and Po and Tigress looked at each other.

“So, what’s your name?” Po asked.

“Tigress,” the tiger girl answered.

“So, what do you want to do?” Po said.

“Want to have a fake bamboo stick fight?” Tigress invited.

“Ok,” Po replied.

They both picked up bamboo sticks and play-fought each other. Su-Lin looked out the window.

“Hmm, it seems they’re bonding already,” she said.

It was true. Po and Tigress were already bonding. When the meeting was over, Po left with his father for the evening, to return for his first day of training tomorrow. That night, as Tigress slept, Shifu went to speak with Oogway. The old tortoise was meditating. Shifu took a deep breath.

“Master?” he began.

Oogway’s eyes opened.

“Yes, old friend?” he answered.

“I have taken another student,” Shifu stated.

“Ah yes, the panda,” Oogway replied.

“He has bonded with my daughter already. I only hope he will be a good student,” Shifu replied.

Oogway smiled.

“He will be a bit of a troublemaker at first, but he will ultimately achieve a great destiny years from now, when he is a young man,” Oogway explained.

“Will he be the last student to come?” Shifu continued.

“No. You will see several more come soon,” Oogway stated.

Having the information he needed, Shifu left and got in bed to prepare for tomorrow. The sun rose over the Valley of Peace. After breakfast, Mr. Ping Took Po to the Jade Palace for his first day of training. Shifu, Su-Lin, Tigress and Oogway were there to meet them.

“Welcome, Po,” Shifu began.

“I’m excited to begin training,” Po said.

“I’ll be back this evening to pick you up,” Mr. Ping told his son.

Father and son shared a goodbye hug, and then Ping left. Shifu then proceeded to introduce Po to Oogway.

“Tell me, young one, what brought about your interest in Kung Fu?” the tortoise asked.

“The stories of you and Master Shifu,” Po replied.

“I hope you enjoy your time here,” Tigress told him.

“You kidding? This is totally awesome!” Po exclaimed.

And so, Po’s Kung Fu training began. Later that week, Oogway’s statement about other students coming began to come true. The first to arrive was a little snake girl about the age of Po and Tigress called Viper, the daughter of the patriarch of the viper clan, Great Master Viper and his wife, Hui. They were a family of Green tree vipers. When Shifu came to the door, Great Master Viper bowed.

“Greetings, Master Shifu,” he began.

“Greetings, Great Master Viper,” Shifu answered.

“I wish my daughter to train under you,” Great Master Viper stated.

“Your daughter?” Shifu asked.

Great Master Viper moved a bit, revealing Viper.

“I saw her imitating my moves, and she was very good. I want her to be trained by the best,” Great Master Viper explained.

Shifu nodded.

“One thing. Viper was born without fangs or venom, and she’s a tad sensitive about it,” Hui said.

“I will be mindful of that,” Shifu answered.

Great Master Viper and Hui kissed their daughter goodbye and promised to visit her. They then left. Viper met Po and Tigress and befriended them. Soon, other students showed up. The new students were two young adults, a male Red-crowned crane named Crane and a pretty female Chinese mountain cat named Mei Ling. They had finished training at their own Kung Fu school, and had been sent to the Jade Palace for more training. They were also boyfriend and girlfriend. When Shifu saw Mei, he convinced her to work for him as Tigress’ babysitter. Still later, two more young adult males, a Praying mantis named Mantis and a Golden languar monkey named Monkey, the former village troublemaker, came for training. Shifu looked at his new group.

“Well, it looks like we’re a full group now,” he commented.

And with that, they left for a day’s training. Some months had gone by. It was evening, and Great Master Viper and Hui had come to visit Viper. Meanwhile, Po awaited the coming of his father. Shifu looked out the window. Even in the dimming light, it was obvious that bad weather was on the way.

“Looks like rain,” the Red panda said.

Suddenly, as if Shifu’s words had made it happen, the wind began to blow and thunder began to rumble. A bolt of lightning flashed across the sky, causing Po, Tigress and Viper to jump back. There was more thunder, and rain began to fall.

“I got to get to Dad!” Po shouted as he ran for the door.

He never made it. Mei Ling caught him and pulled him back. Shifu looked at him.

“No, Po. You must stay here,” Shifu stated.

Outside, the rain got harder and harder. Mr. Ping had left his restaurant and had been on his way, but was forced to take refuge in a shop. Back in the palace, Po was sad.

“What’s wrong?” Tigress asked as she sat by him.

“I want my Dad,” Po replied.

“Just be patient,” Tigress answered.

This had no effect on Po. He began to cry. Mei Ling rushed to him.

“There, there. I’m sure he’ll be here as soon as the rain is over,” she said.

The rain continued on, without any sign of stopping. Everyone remained in the room. Seeing her friend upset, Tigress sat down by him and tried to cheer him up.

“It can’t be all that bad, Po. You’re with me, Viper and the others,” she began.

“It’s not the same!” Po exclaimed.

They talked on and on. Finally, Mei Ling intervened.

“Po, I’m sure your dad wants to get to you, but the rain is heavy. No one is out right now,” she explained.

“But my dad has never failed to come for me before,” Po whined.

Mei Ling stroked the little panda’s head.

“Just be patient. Good things come to those who wait,” she said.

And so, Po waited. Finally, after a long time, the rain stopped. When it had done so, Mr. Ping left the shop and headed for the Jade Palace. The doors opened. Po became excited.

“Dad!” he shouted as he ran to Mr. Ping.

Father and son embraced, eliciting an “aww” from Mei Ling.

“Po, are you ready to go home?” Mr. Ping asked.

Po nodded and the two of them took off. They headed to their home.

[KingKovu44]

Chapter 2


Two years passed, and Po was now eight years old, while Tigress and Viper were seven. They were an active trio. It was obvious to all that Tigress was the leader. Viper was calm as she had always been. Po, on the other hand, was quite mischievous. He enjoyed pulling harmless pranks on those around him. That day, as they took a training break, they were bored.

“So, what do you want to do today?” Tigress asked.

“We could sneak into the Hall of Warriors,” Po stated.

Tigress looked at him.

“Are you nuts?! You know we’re forbidden to be in there alone until we’re older!” she said.

“Tigress, you need to live a little,” Po answered.

“Are you saying that I don’t know how to have fun?” Tigress answered.

“Maybe,” Po replied.

Without warning, Tigress leapt forward and pounced on Po. She flipped onto her back and began to bounce Po around like a ball of yarn. When she was done, she looked at her friend.

“Man, that was so much fun,” she said.

Po sighed.

“Whatever, I’m going into the Hall of Warriors,” Po said as he got up.

Po then took off. Tigress and Viper followed.

“Po, get back here! My dad won’t show any mercy if he catches you!” Tigress shouted.

Po didn’t listen. He merely continued on his way to the Hall of Warriors. Unfortunately, he left the doors wide open. Tigress and Viper entered in order to get him out. They bickered, and Mei Ling heard them. She entered, an unhappy expression on her face.

“What are you three doing in here?!” she demanded.

“Miss Mei, Viper and I were only trying to get Po out,” Tigress began.

“No excuses, Tigress. Now, all of you, I’m taking you to Master Shifu,” Mei Ling replied.

Soon, all three children were before the Red panda. He was very angry.

“Tigress, why didn’t you stop him?!” he asked.

“Dad, I tried, but he wouldn’t listen!” Tigress replied.

“And then you went with him,” Shifu continued.

“Dad, I…” Tigress started.

Shifu cut them off, and then punished them by ending their break and returning them to training. When evening began and training was over for the day, Po went to go and visit Tigress. Unfortunately, she was less than happy to see him.

“Tigress, I came to see you,” Po began.

“Don’t talk to me,” she replied in a very irritated tone.

Po was shocked. She had never talked to him like that before.

“Why not?” Po asked.

Tigress turned.

“Are you nuts? Do you even have to ask? Because of you, we’re all in trouble,” she stated.

“I didn’t mean to get us in trouble!” Po replied.

Tigress still wasn’t happy.

“You left the door open and allowed Mei Ling to catch us!” she answered.

Po didn’t want any more of this.

“Enough. I’ll just go talk with Viper,” he said.

“Yeah, you do that,” Tigress replied.

Po left and went to visit Viper. The snake was deep in thought.

“Hello,” Po began.

“Hey,” Viper replied.

“What are you doing?” Po asked.

“Eh, I’m just thinking about the fact that I was born with no fangs or venom,” she told him.

“It’s ok. There’s plenty of snakes that don’t have fangs or venom,” Po said.

Viper suddenly reared up and hissed menacingly.

“What was that for?!” Po exclaimed.

“My kind is supposed to have venom and fangs!” Viper shouted.

Not wanting to anger her further, he went back to Tigress, who by now had gotten over her feelings. She apologized, and hung out with the panda. Some months passed, and then something wonderful happened: Crane and Mei Ling got engaged then married. It was a happy time for all. Po, Tigress and Viper had an excellent time at the ceremony and following feast. The three children continued in their training, growing in power and strength. Shifu was proud of them, knowing that they would all be great warriors someday. Six years had passed. Po was now fourteen years old, while Tigress and Viper were thirteen. These last few years, they had been training hard, and were becoming quite adept in their fighting forms. It was now summer time, and they looked forward to their trip to Lotus Lake, the Valley of Peace’s vacation destination, which was due to happen in a few days.

“This is going to be the best trip to the lake ever!” Po exclaimed.

“Po, you say that every year,” Tigress reminded.

“She’s right,” Viper added.

“Come on. You know how much I look forward to this trip,” Po answered.

“Yes, Po. I do,” Tigress told him.

Just then, Shifu came in.

“So, what’s going on here?” the Red panda asked.

“Nothing, Dad. We were just talking about our trip to the lake,” Tigress replied.

“I’m sure you will enjoy it very much,” Shifu said.

“I was just saying this would be the best trip yet,” Po told him.

Tigress sighed.

“Dad, he says that each and every year,” she complained.

"Tigress, let it go,” Shifu commanded.

“But…” she began.

“No buts!” Shifu answered as he walked off.

“Well, I guess we should go back to training,” Viper said.

They did so. The days passed, and it was time to head to Lotus Lake. Everyone eagerly got ready. Mei Ling watched Tigress and her friends preparing. As she did so, Crane approached his wife.

“Kids,” he mused.

“Yeah,” the mountain cat answered.

Once everyone was ready, the group traveled out to Lotus Lake. As they traveled, Monkey and Mantis engaged in a conversation.

“So, you think anything will happen with Po?” Mantis asked.

“Knowing him, I’m certain it will happen,” Monkey replied.

When they arrived, Tigress and Viper were the first into the cool waters of the lake.

Tigress looked up at Po.

“Come on in. The water’s fine!” she exclaimed.

Eagerly, Po ran down the bank and cannonballed into the water with a loud splash.

Suddenly, the voice of Shifu gave a loud cry.

“PANDA!”

Po looked to the bank and saw Shifu, his clothes soaked and an angry expression on his face.

“Po, why did you do that?!” the Red panda demanded.

Shifu then realized that he had shouted at his student.

“Forgive me, Po,” he said.

“I forgive you, Master!” the panda exclaimed.

Shifu sighed and sat in the sun to dry off. After they had been swimming for a long time, Po, Tigress and Viper did the same. Po and Tigress then started roughhousing on the bank. It all ended when Po got too close to Tigress’ face and kissed her cheek by mistake.

“PANDA!” she shouted as she pushed him away.

“I’m sorry! It was an accident!” Po said.

“Yeah right,” Tigress replied sarcastically.

Mei Ling then stepped in.

“Tigress, it’s true. You should apologize for pushing him,” she said.

Tigress knew it was the truth. She apologized to Po. After swimming all day, they returned home to the Jade Palace. That evening, Shifu went to speak with Oogway on the topic of Po's troublemaking. The tortoise welcomed his student into his chamber.

“What is it, my student?” Oogway began.

“Po,” Shifu replied.

Instantly, Oogway knew the issue at hand.

“I warned you that he would be a troublemaker for a time,” Oogway answered.

“He ‘accidentally’ kissed my daughter!” Shifu protested.

“There are no accidents,” the tortoise replied.

“What?” Shifu said.

“This is a hint of the future bond between them,” Oogway explained.

“What bond?” the Red panda asked.

“You will see,” the old tortoise replied.

Shifu went to bed confused, trying to figure out what his master meant. Try as he may, he could not find the answer. He assumed that it would come to him later. Months later, the Jade Palace prepared for a social gathering of Kung Fu masters from all over China. The occasion was that Po, Tigress and Viper were graduating to a new level of Kung Fu. In one of the palace’s chambers, Mei Ling prepared Tigress. She was clad in a light pink gown with gold embroidery and matching lotus flower clipped to her right ear.

“Aww, you look absolutely beautiful!” Mei Ling exclaimed.

“Eh, I don’t think pink is really my color,” Tigress said.

“I think it looks cute on you,” Mei Ling stated.

Tigress said nothing as she and Mei Ling left the room, where she met up with Po, who wore a red robe. They met up with Great Master Viper, Hui and Viper, and headed out. In the courtyard, Shifu and Oogway were busy conversing with the other masters. Soon, the time for the ceremony was at hand. Then and there, Shifu and Oogway welcomed Po, Tigress and Viper to a new level of Kung Fu. Those around them clapped for the three young warriors. After the ceremony, the party continued.

“So, what’s next for us?” Tigress asked.

“I guess we continue our training and see what comes,” Po replied.

“Yeah, sounds good to me,” Viper answered.

And so, the young warriors continued enjoying themselves. Before long, they found themselves learning the five different forms of Kung Fu. Tigress devoted herself to tiger form, and Viper learned snake form. However, Po had trouble finding a form for himself. He decided to speak with Oogway about it.

"Master?" Po began.

"Yes, young warrior?" Oogway replied.

"I have a problem," Po continued.

"What would this problem be?" Oogway said.

"I can't seem to pick a form for myself. I can only do bits of each of them," the panda complained.

Oogway looked at him.

"Show me," the tortoise requested.

Po performed a routine. As he had said, he used bits of each form. Oogway watched in fascination.

"Hmm, very interesting," Oogway stated.

"What?" Po asked.

"You seem to have a style all your own," the tortoise replied.

"Huh?" Po continued.

Oogway explained. Po then realized what he meant.

"I have my own style! Panda style!" he exclaimed proudly.

"Yes. Now, go and perfect it," Oogway told him.

Po went off to begin doing what the creator of Kung Fu had told him.

[KingKovu44]

Chapter 3


It had been four years. Po was now eighteen, and Tigress and Viper were seventeen. Po had grown into a strong young man, while the girls were very beautiful, especially Tigress. Po had noticed this fact, as well as the fact that Tigress had developed an incredibly gorgeous, fit body, and had developed a serious crush on her. It was spring, and at the moment, the young panda was busy moving into the Jade Palace. Besides his training, it gave him a chance to be around the lovely feline more and more. As they helped Po move his bags to his room, Crane and Monkey talked.

“Well, it should be interesting to see what happens now that he’s here full-time,” Monkey began.

“We will see,” Crane replied.

“Are you two talking about me?” the teenage panda asked.

“Uh, yes,” Crane said.

“Anyway, it’s going to be totally awesome being with you guys all the time!” Po exclaimed.

“Yeah, we’re thrilled too,” Monkey said.

They finally arrived at Po’s room. Just as they were opening the door, Tigress arrived on the scene to welcome Po to his new home.

“Hey there,” she began.

“Hey Tigress. How are you?” Po replied.

“I’m good,” Tigress said.

“I’m excited to be here,” Po continued.

“And we’re happy to have you,” Tigress said.

From the tone in her voice, Po could tell something was going on with his best friend, but was unable to figure it out. The truth was that Tigress had a crush on Po just as he had feelings for her. However, neither of them had the courage to come right out and admit it. The reason they gave themselves was that they didn’t want to ruin their friendship if it didn’t work out. That evening, Tigress sat in her room, thinking about her feelings for her friend. Just then, there was a knock at the door.

“Who is it?” Tigress asked.

“It’s Viper,” came the female voice from behind the door.

“Come in,” Tigress replied.

Viper slithered into the room after opening the door with her tail. She saw Tigress thinking.

“What’s going on?” she asked.

“I’m just thinking about someone,” Tigress replied.

Viper slithered onto the bed and sat next to her.

“Exactly who are you thinking about?” she asked.

Tigress said nothing.

“It wouldn’t happen to be a guy, would it?” Viper replied.

Tigress sighed.

“Yes. It’s a guy, a guy who is our best friend,” she said.

Viper looked at her.

“Do you mean Po?” she asked.

Tigress nodded to say “yes”.

Viper smiled.

“By any chance, do you like him as more than a friend?” she asked.

Tigress looked at her, but said nothing.

“Ah ha! You do have a crush on Po!” Viper replied.

Tigress turned.

“Viper, he’s my best friend. That would be weird,” she said.

Viper looked at her.

“Look, I can tell how you really feel. You need to tell him,” she said.

Tigress looked at the snake.

“Tell him? If he doesn’t feel the same way, it could ruin our friendship,” she said.

Viper sighed.

“Listen, Tigress. If you don’t tell him how you feel, he’ll never know, and he’ll eventually move on. If you wait too long, he could end up with another girl,” she said.

Tigress realized that she was right. She nodded.

“All right. I’ll tell him in a little bit,” she said.

Viper smiled.

“I can’t wait to see the result,” she said.

With that, Viper slithered away, deciding to go see what Po was up to at the moment. n his room, Po was deep in thought. Due to this, he had forgotten to close the door after entering. Viper saw the open door and went to investigate the speech she heard coming from the room.

“Man, I wish could tell Tigress who I feel about her,” Po stated.

“What was that?” Viper asked.

Po turned and saw the snake as she slithered in.

“Nothing,” Po replied.

“Come on, you can tell me. I won’t tell anyone,” Viper answered.

“All right. I have a crush on Tigress,” the panda said.

Viper looked at him.

“Is that all? Why don’t you just go and tell her?” Viper continued.

“Because I don’t want to ruin our friendship if she says no,” Po informed her.

“Look, do you really think that she’s going to wait around forever? The other day, a guy in the village hit on her. She rejected him, but you can see my point,” Viper said.

Po sighed.

“I should be the one to be with her,” Po stated.

“Then go and tell her,” Viper instructed.

“I can’t. I just can’t,” Po said.

“Come on. Who’s been her best guy friend forever?” Viper asked.

“I have,” Po said.

“Who’s not going to wait forever?” Viper continued.

“She’s not,” Po replied.

Po then decided that the time was right.

“I’ll do it!” he exclaimed.

And with that, Po headed to Tigress’ room. He knocked on her door. Tigress, clad in a silk nightgown, opened the door.

“Po, what is it?” she began.

“Can I come in?” Po replied.

Tigress quickly pulled Po inside and shut the door.

“What is it?” she asked.

Po stepped forward to tell her, but accidentally tripped and fell, hitting his head and knocking himself out. Tigress rushed to his side. When he finally awoke, he found himself with his head in Tigress’ lap. He smiled.

“Well, isn’t this pleasant?” he said with a chuckle.

“Po, this isn’t funny. What were you trying to tell me?” she asked.

Po decided to just tell her.

“I have a crush on you,” he said.

Tigress was shocked.

“Really?” she replied.

“Really,” Po answered.

Tigress gave a flirty smile.

“You know, I’ve had a crush on you too,” she told him.

Po was overjoyed to hear this.

“Well, perhaps we should plan a first date,” he said.

They did exactly that. Soon, that very next weekend, they were on their first date. Po took Tigress to his dad’s restaurant. Upon seeing them, Mr. Ping was excited.

“Po, Tigress, what brings you here tonight?” the goose asked.

Po proudly took Tigress’ hand.

“We’re on a date,” Po replied.

At that, Mr. Ping brought them to a table and served them. After eating their fill, Po and Tigress decided to take a walk. Their walk eventually brought them to the forest surrounding the village. After some more walking, they came to a bamboo grove. In the middle of the grove was a pavilion that seemed to be fifty or more years old. It was covered in vines and flowers.

“What a beautiful evening,” Tigress commented.

However, it wasn’t the scenery that had Po’s attention. Rather, it was Tigress.

“Yeah, but you’re better,” Po replied.

Just then, Po held out his hand.

“Tigress, may I have this dance?” he asked.

Tigress chuckled.

“Po, there’s no music,” she informed him.

That didn’t matter to Po. He simply began humming a simple Chinese folk tune. Tigress allowed him to take her hand, and they slow-danced together in the moonlight. It was a perfect end to a perfect evening. A few days had gone by since Po and Tigress’ first date. By now, everyone knew that Po and Tigress liked each other romantically. Shifu and Su-Lin were happy that their daughter had found someone that made her happy. However, at the moment, Shifu seemed depressed. Tigress entered the room. Upon seeing this, she went to investigate. She sat on the floor in front of him.

“Dad, is everything all right?” she asked.

Shifu looked up.

“No, my daughter. I am not,” he said.

“Why not?” Tigress continued.

“Today is the anniversary of when Tai Lung slaughtered the village and was taken to Chor-Ghom prison,” Shifu told her.

Tigress placed her paw on her father’s back in an attempt to console him.

“Dad, why not let it go? It’s been years,” she replied.

Shifu took a deep breath.

“You don’t understand, Tigress,” he said.

“Yes I do. He betrayed you. It’s perfectly understandable,” Tigress replied.

“Tigress, there’s a lot more to it than that,” Shifu continued.

“What do you mean?” she answered.

Shifu then proceeded to tell his daughter the whole story of Tai Lung, including how he had raised the Snow leopard.

“Wait, if you raised him, does that mean that he’s my brother?” Tigress said.

“No. He is not. He was disowned on the day he was taken to prison. You are my only child,” the Red panda stated.

“I’m proud to be your daughter,” Tigress remarked.

“As I’m proud to be your father,” Shifu told her.

The Red panda then walked over and kissed his beautiful daughter on her cheek. They hugged briefly, and then Tigress left. The day passed without anything major happening. Then, just as, the sun was getting ready to go down, Po came to his girlfriend.

“Hey babe,” Po said, a somewhat cocky grin on his face.

Tigress chuckled.

“Hi Po,” she replied.

“So, what are you up to?” the panda asked.

“Nothing much,” Tigress continued.

“Do you want to do something?” Po replied.

“Sure, but what?” Tigress said.

Po thought for a moment.

“You want to go spar in the courtyard?” he said.

Tigress smiled.

“Perfect,” she said.

They headed out to the courtyard, the one where they had played as cubs. They got into position and bowed to each other. However, the fact that they were in the courtyard brought back beloved memories of their cubhood. Po got cocky once again. He reached out and tickled Tigress. She jerked back, returning the panda’s prideful expression.

“Watch it, panda,” she warned.

“Or what?” Po teased.

“This,” Tigress replied.

The lovely teenage feline leapt forward, knocking Po to the ground. What erupted was a massive tickle fight, which lasted until both were laughing so hard that their sides hurt.

“Well, what now?” Tigress asked.

Po sat up a bit.

“Want to sit under the sacred peach tree?” he asked.

“Sure, why not?” Tigress replied.

And so, they went over to the old tree. Together they sat, watching the sun go down.

“I love this. It’s beautiful,” Tigress commented.

“Eh, you’re better,” Po told her.

Tigress smiled.

“Do you ever tire of talking about me like that?” she said.

“Nope,” Po replied.

“Come on, Po, there’s got to be other reasons that you like me,” Tigress continued.

Po sighed.

“Yeah, because you’re totally awesome,” the panda said.

Tigress suddenly moved forward and hugged her boyfriend.

“I thought as much. Now, what’s so awesome about me?” she asked.

Po seemed to think for a moment.

“Well, for one, you’re the most awesome fighter,” he said.

Tigress looked into his eyes and hugged him tighter. By the end of the night, both of them considered this even their second date. Several days later, Po awoke with a sharp pain in his stomach. Thinking that it would simply pass, Po got up and headed out for training. However, as he, Tigress and the others trained, the pains become worse. Po gagged several times. Shifu stopped the class and went to him.

“Po, are you all right?” the Red panda asked.

“Yeah, couldn’t be better,” Po lied, trying to conceal his agony.

Tigress saw through his lie.

“Po, you don’t look well. Just tell my dad the truth,” she suggested.

“No! I’m fine!” the panda insisted.

It was then that the illness became unbearable. The stomach pains became the worst they had been so far. Po fell clutching his stomach, screaming in pain as he went down. Tigress rushed to his side.

“Po, are you OK?!” she shouted.

“No!” he exclaimed.

Shifu instructed the servant geese to take the panda to his bed. Once he was there, Tigress was assigned to care for him. She encouraged him to take a nap. He did so. While he slept, she watched over him. When he awoke, she stood there, a bowl of orange chicken in her paws.

“I brought you something to eat,” she said.

Po accepted the bowl and ate.

“So, how are you feeling?” Tigress asked.

“Better,” Po replied.

“Good. I hate to see you in pain,” Tigress continued.

“And I’m glad to have the best and greatest caretaker in the valley,” the panda commented.

Tigress gave a pleasant sigh.

“And I’m happy to have the best boyfriend,” she remarked.

Slowly but surely, Po began to recover. When he finally did, he returned to his regular routine.

[KingKovu44]

Chapter 4


The months had begun to pass. The air had begun to get chilly, signifying that winter was well on its way. Month by month ticked by until, finally, the Valley of Peace was covered in a dense white blanket of snow. Everywhere you walked in the village, you could hear the joyful noises of children at play, excited not only because of the snow, but also about the fact that the Valley’s most cherished and beloved holiday, the Winter Feast. Right now, it was early morning, and Tigress was fast asleep. The beautiful 17-year old feline was unaware that Shifu was sitting next to her bed, watching his beloved daughter sleep. Outside the window, the snow was falling. Just then, Tigress’ lovely yellow eyes opened, and she saw her father sitting there.

“Dad, what are you doing here?” she asked.

“Do I need a reason to see my daughter?” Shifu answered.

Tigress sat up.

“No,” she replied.

Tigress then looked out the window at the winter landscape.

“It’s beautiful,” she said.

Shifu smiled, and then looked right at her.

“Well, shall we go to breakfast? The servants should be done with the rice by now,” the Red panda said.

“I’ll be right there,” Tigress answered.

Shifu nodded, then got up and left. Tigress rose from bed, bathed in the bathhouse, dried off and changed into her regular clothes. The teenage tiger then made her way to the kitchen, where Shifu waited. As Tigress began to fix herself a bowl of rice, the others began to arrive. The first to enter was Po. Upon seeing Tigress, the 18-year old panda went to her and bowed playfully.

“Good morning, your hotness,” he told her.

Tigress gave a small smile.

“All right, Po. Let’s get our breakfast and sit down,” she said.

They did just that. Soon, everyone was sitting down and eating. Po looked at his girlfriend.

“You want to rest for a while and then go out in the snow after lunch?” he asked.

“Sure, why not?” Tigress replied.

“I think it’ll be good for you two to get out a bit,” Shifu said.

Tigress nodded.

“What will you do out there?” Shifu asked.

“I don’t know. Relax and look around most likely,” Tigress answered.

“Oh I have some ideas,” Po said deviously.

As he spoke, Tigress could tell exactly what he was thinking. She looked back at him.

“We’ll see about that,” she said.

Po chuckled.

“Yeah, we will,” he said sarcastically.

And so, they finished breakfast. Po and Tigress rested and hung out. Then, after lunch, it was time for them to go out. The teenage panda and tiger donned their winter robes and headed out. Tigress looked around at the snow-covered landscape. It was so beautiful. She turned to talk with Po, but he wasn’t there. She looked around and saw him constructing a little snow fort.

“I knew it,” she said to herself.

The sight brought back memories of this year. Sure, they had started dating this year, but, back in the summer, Po had splashed and tickled her during a little swim session at Lotus Lake. It was then that Tigress decided to have a little fun with him. She formed a snowball and walked behind Po, who was currently making a stack of snowballs of his own. Tigress hurled her snowball, and it hit Po in the back with a wet slap. Po looked around and saw Tigress standing there.

“Hey, what was that for?” he asked.

“Oh, I thought you wouldn’t have a problem with it, since you thought it was funny to splash and tickle me back in the summer,” Tigress playfully teased.

“All right, you’re asking for it!” Po stated.

The panda picked up a snowball of his own and prepared to throw it, but once he did, Tigress had leapt out of the way. Po couldn’t see her. As he looked around, he was suddenly hit by another snowball. It happened over and over again. He was aching already and getting tired.

“Tigress, please! I won’t do that to you again!” he pleaded.

Suddenly, without warning, Tigress pounced on him and knocked him into the snow.

“Really?” she asked.

As he prepared to speak, Po picked up a handful of snow.

“Yep,” he said.

Then, he reached out and smashed the snow into Tigress’ right neck ruff. The icy cold shocked her.

“PANDA!” she exclaimed.

“I thought you enjoyed the snow,” Po answered.

“I don’t like having it smashed in my face,” Tigress replied.

“But technically, I smashed it into your neck ruff,” Po countered.

Tigress said nothing. She got hold of Po and began to roll around with him. However, she was not angry. Rather, she was merely playing.

“Stop! I’m aching!” Po shouted.

After quite some time, Tigress finally stopped.

“I think you’ve learned your lesson. Now, do you want to go back to the Jade Palace, or stay here for a while?” the striped feline asked.

“Go back. I’m going to go lay down,” Po stated.

Tigress stood and gently helped her boyfriend to his feet.

“Let’s go,” she said.

And so, they headed back to the Jade Palace. Po went to his room, where he got comfortable and laid down on his bed, getting under his covers in order to warm up. Some time passed, then, suddenly, the door opened. It was Tigress. She had with her a tray that had warm tea and a bowl of warm noodle soup.

“Hey panda. I brought you some soup and tea,” she began.

Po looked at her as she set the tray before him and poured the tea. Po picked up his chopsticks as Tigress sat in a chair next to him.

“Well, today was a fun day,” she said.

“Not for me,” Po replied as he swallowed his first bite.

Tigress smiled.

“Come on, Po. We’ve been playing like that ever since we were cubs. Surely you remember that,” she said.

“Eh, now that I think about it, I think it was worse then,” Po replied.

“How so?” Tigress asked.

“Back then, you sometimes lay on your back and batted me into the air like a ball of yarn,” Po said.

Tigress looked back at the memory.

“I was just a cub. You can’t blame me for that,” she stated.

Po sighed.

“I guess you’re right,” the panda said.

A little more time passed. Po and Tigress just talked. Then, Tigress had an idea.

“Hey Po, I have an idea,” she said.

“What? If it involves you snowballing me again, I don’t want to hear it,” the panda answered.

“No. I was thinking that we could work together and get one of the others,” Tigress explained.

“Who do you have in mind?” Po asked.

Tigress smiled deviously.

“My dad,” she answered.

Po got excited.

“Awesome idea!” he said.

The two put their plan into motion. The next day, they invited Shifu to go out with them. As Shifu looked around, Po and Tigress left and hid. The Red panda didn’t see as his daughter and her boyfriend both tossed their snowballs at the same time. One hit Shifu in the back, while the other hit him in the back of the head. He spun around.

“Who did that?!” he demanded.

Shifu then caught sight of Po and Tigress, who were snickering.

“Did you two just hit me?” the Red panda asked.

“We think you should have some fun and not be so serious,” Po explained.

Shifu then picked up a snowball of his own. He then hurled it. It struck Po right in the face. The Kung Fu master then made another snowball and looked straight at Tigress.

“Well, dear daughter, you no longer have the advantage,” he told her.

“Come on, Dad. You wouldn’t do that to me,” Tigress teased.

To her surprise, Shifu tossed it. The snowball struck Tigress right in the stomach. Both her and Po were surprised that Shifu could throw that powerfully, or that quickly.

“And that is part of the reason why I’m a Kung Fu master,” Shifu said.

And with that, the Red panda left. Po looked at his girlfriend.

“Tigress, let’s make a deal that we’ll never challenge him again,” he said.

“Agreed,” Tigress replied.

They then returned to the Jade Palace. Later that evening, Po and Tigress went and sat together in one of the peaceful relaxation chambers. As they sat there, the pair suddenly found themselves staring into each other’s eyes. Po took notice of how attractive Tigress had become, and Tigress took notice of Po’s sweet smile. Before either of them realized, they were bringing their faces closer together. They came closer and closer until, finally, they were sharing their first true kiss. It was a beautiful moment, a moment thoroughly enjoyed by both of them. Finally, after a bit, they broke the kiss. Po smiled.

“Wow…that was totally awesome!” Po said excitedly.

Tigress nodded.

“I thought you might say that,” she said.

Po chuckled.

“Well, you are totally hot,” he replied.

Tigress snuggled into her boyfriend’s arms, rubbing her head under the panda’s chin and purring. Po couldn’t have been happier.

[KingKovu44]

Chapter 5


A few more months passed. Finally, it was the day of the Winter Feast. Shifu had given Po, Tigress and the others the day off. As well, he had given Po and Tigress permission to attend the biggest event of the season, the annual party at Mr. Ping’s restaurant. Viper, Mei Ling, Crane, Monkey and Mantis would be coming with them. As for Shifu, he would stay behind at the Jade Palace, for he would be staying behind to host an important event: a formal gathering of the great Kung Fu masters. He would be hosting alongside Oogway. That afternoon, Tigress went to her father.

“This will be our first Feast apart,” she said wistfully.

Shifu looked at her.

“My dear daughter, know that even when we are separate, you are in my heart,” he said.

Tigress sighed.

“I know, but it’s different this time. We’ve never been apart at Winter Feast,” she said.

Shifu nodded.

“Yes, but things change. It is foolish to try to stop it,” he said.

Tigress gave him a nod of acknowledgment. The day passed and day turned to evening. Tigress left to put on her dress for the party. She entered her room and removed it from where she had stored it. It was a beautiful red color, which was one of the colors of the Winter Feast. Before long, she was fully dressed and ready to go. Just then, there was a knock at the door.

“It’s Po,” it said.

Tigress went and opened the door. Po stood there, clad in red pants. He smiled.

“Well, gorgeous, are you ready?” he said.

Tigress hesitated for a second before speaking.

“Yes,” she said.

Po nodded and held out his paw. Tigress took it. Just then, the others showed up, all in their holiday best. They exited the Jade Palace and began to head down to the village. As they walked, Po could tell that something was up with Tigress.

“Tigress, are you all right?” he asked.

Tigress sighed.

“This is my first Winter Feast apart from my dad,” she said.

Po looked at the others.

“Guys, why don’t you go on ahead? Tigress and I will catch up,” he said.

They did so. Po looked into Tigress’ eyes.

“Look, Tigress, this is going to be a totally awesome night,” he said.

Tigress sighed.

“It’s not that, Po. It’s just that I’ve never been without my dad at Winter Feast,” she said.

Po smiled and looked around at the stars in the sky.

“Look, Tigress, we’re dating now. We’re in a whole new world,” he said.

Tigress finally smiled.

“Yes, a whole new world,” she replied.

Po nodded.

“Come on, gorgeous. Let’s catch up and get to the party,” he said.

And so they did. Before long, they had arrived at the party. Mr. Ping greeted them warmly, and the event began. Back at the Jade Palace, Shifu was missing Tigress as the masters gathered around the table. Finally, after some time, he couldn’t take it anymore. He looked at Oogway and the others.

“I’m sorry, but I cannot stay. I have never been away from my daughter at Winter Feast and I don’t intend to start now,” he said, bowing and then leaving the table.

The others watched as he exited the Jade Palace. Back at the noodle shop, the party was in full swing. Po and Tigress were talking. Just then, a male voice was heard.

“Tigress…” it said.

Tigress turned to see Shifu. She ran over and hugged him.

“Dad, what made you come?” she asked.

Shifu smiled.

“I realized that it is important for us to be together on this holiday,” he replied.

Tigress was about to reply when another voice rang out.

“Well-done, Shifu,” the male voice said.

Shifu turned to see Oogway and the masters.

“Masters, what are you doing here?” he asked.

Oogway looked at his student.

“You have realized a major truth: there is nothing more important than family,” he said.

Shifu nodded. Meanwhile, Po and Tigress went off on their own.

“Happy Feast, Gorgeous,” Po said.

“Happy Feast, Panda,” Tigress replied.

And with that, they shared a wonderful kiss. It would be a Winter Feast that would be long remembered.

[KingKovu44]

Chapter 6


Four more years passed, and now Po was twenty-two and Tigress was twenty-one. Their love was strong. Last year, Crane, Monkey and Mantis had been betting on how long the relationship might last, but stopped after Tigress angrily confronted them. As well, a new student, a Chinese cobra named Lao Ai, had joined the Jade Palace. He was a handsome snake, with brown scales with light bands. He was Viper’s boyfriend. He had been an admirer of Viper’s father, and had fallen for Viper upon seeing her for the first time. At the moment, Shifu was in the palace garden, playing his bamboo flute. His students teamed up and leapt at him. He battled them, and won. He looked at them.

“Well-done students, if you were trying to disappoint me that is. Po, you need more strength, Tigress, more ferocity, Crane, height, Viper and Lao Ai, subtlety, Monkey, speed, Mei Ling, grace, Mantis…” he started.

“Master Shifu!” a voice announced, cutting the Red panda off.

Shifu turned to see Zeng, his goose messenger, standing there.

“What?” Shifu asked in irritation.

“It’s Master Oogway. He wants to see you,” Zeng explained.

Shifu ran off to the Hall of Warriors. He entered and calmed himself.

“Master Oogway, you wish to see me?” he began.

Oogway withdrew from his shell and stood before his student.

“Why must something be wrong for me to want to see my old friend?” the tortoise asked.

“So, nothing’s wrong?” Shifu said.

Oogway smiled.

“Well, I didn’t say that,” Oogway replied.

Shifu just looked at him. Oogway proceeded to blow out the lit candles around the room. However, it was going slowly. Finally, Shifu raised his hands, unleashing a gust of air, blowing out all the candles.

“You were saying?” Shifu continued.

Oogway looked at his friend and student.

“I have had a vision: Tai Lung will return,” the tortoise explained.

A terrifying vision of the Snow leopard’s last attack flashed before the Red panda’s eyes.

“That is impossible! He is in prison!” Shifu exclaimed.

“Nothing is impossible,” Oogway reminded.

Immediately, Shifu called for Zeng.

“Fly to Chor-Ghom prison and tell them to double the guards, double their weapons, double everything! Tai Lung does not leave that prison!” the Red panda instructed.

“Yes Master Shifu!” Zeng replied.

The goose flew off, hitting a jade pillar as he went. Oogway chuckled.

“One often meets his destiny on the road he takes to avoid it,” he stated.

“We must do something! We can’t let him march on the valley, take his revenge!” Shifu exclaimed.

Oogway then directed his student’s attention to the circular pool inside the Hall of Warriors.

“Your mind is like this water my friend. When it is agitated, it becomes difficult to see. But if you allow it to settle, the answer becomes clear,” Oogway explained.

The old tortoise then touched his staff to the water’s surface, calming the pool and revealing the reflection of the golden dragon statue on the ceiling, which held the legendary document known as the Dragon Scroll. Shifu looked at it.

“The Dragon Scroll,” Shifu commented.

“It is time,” Oogway replied.


“But who is worthy to be trusted with the secret to limitless power? To become the Dragon Warrior?” Shifu asked.

“I don’t know,” Oogway replied.

Oogway then began to outline his plan for a tournament in order to choose the Dragon Warrior. Back in the courtyard, Shifu’s students were discussing what could possibly be going on.

“I think it was just a friendly conversation,” Po said.

“Well, I don’t think that Master Oogway would call my dad in for something so meaningless. I think something big is happening,” Tigress stated.

“And right you are, dear daughter,” Shifu’s voice answered from behind them.

They all turned. Tigress went to Shifu.

“Dad, what’s happening?” she asked.

Shifu sighed.

“Oogway had a vision that foretold the return of Tai Lung. He has decided that it is time to choose the Dragon Warrior, and that there will be a tournament where all of you will participate,” the Red Panda told them.

“SO FREAKIN’ AWESOME!” Po exclaimed.

Tigress elbowed Po in the stomach. Mei Ling then looked at Shifu.

“But Master, if Tai Lung is in prison, how can he return here?” she asked.

“Do you doubt the great Oogway’s wisdom?” the Red panda replied.

Mei Ling bowed.

“No, Master,” she said.

“Good. Now, prepare yourselves for the tournament. Remember, any one of you could be chosen,” Shifu stated.

Po, Tigress and the others bowed, then began talking. Lao Ai looked at Viper.

“I’m rooting for you,” he said.

“And me for you,” she replied.

Po looked at Tigress.

“You’re the most awesome of our group. You’ll get it for sure,” Po stated.

“Po, you’re just saying that,” she replied.

“No, I mean it,” the panda said.

Tigress nuzzled Po and purred. After that, Po and Tigress decided to spend some time together under the sacred peach tree. Sitting there, they looked up at the clouds.

“Po, what do you think will happen now?” Tigress asked.

“Simple. The one chosen will kick Tai Lung’s butt back to prison,” Po said with a small, confident smile.

Tigress sighed.

“I doubt that it will be easy,” she replied.

Po waited until Tigress was focusing on the clouds once more before pulling her close to him.

“What is sure is how much I love you,” he said.

“And the other sure thing is my strong love for you,” she said.

Po stared into Tigress’ dazzling yellow and orange eyes for what seemed an eternity. He only hoped that Tai Lung wouldn’t come between them.

[KingKovu44]

Chapter 7


The tournament would be held in several days. Everyone began to train rigorously in order to prepare themselves. Tigress, wanting to help Po, took it upon herself to help Po train while getting herself ready in the process. That afternoon, Po and Tigress sparred in the courtyard. Po barely managed to dodge a kick from Tigress.

“Whoa, Tigress, take it easy! I don’t have any of that feline agility going for me!” Po exclaimed.

Tigress continued fighting, her desire to help Po train.

“Keep it up, Po. You’re doing well,” she said.

However, Po didn’t feel the same way. He paused to catch his breath, allowing himself to fall into a sitting position.

“Come on, Tigress. I’m weak compared to you and Shifu. What am I? Just the clumsy boyfriend of Shifu’s daughter,” he said.

Tigress did not like this one bit. Her ears went back. Without warning, she leapt forward and pinned Po to the ground.

“Don’t ever let me hear you talking like that! You are not just my boyfriend! You are also a warrior who needs some help!” she said.

Tigress took several deep breaths before finally letting Po up.

“Tigress, I am weak compared to you and Shifu,” Po said.

At this moment, Tigress’ anger was replaced by compassion.

“Po, let me tell you something that my dad told me when I was a cub: your only weakness is allowing your mind to convince you that you’re weak,” she said, placing a paw on her love’s left shoulder.

Po sighed.

“I think I should take a break and go see my dad. I’ll be back later,” he said.

Tigress nodded.

“Very well. I’ll see you later,” she said, gently kissing his cheek.

Po kissed her cheek in return before turning to leave. Tigress watched until he was out of sight. Following that, she decided to go and visit with Shifu. She headed for his chamber and knocked on the door.

“Who is it?” Shifu asked from within.

“It’s me,” Tigress replied.

“Come in,” Shifu answered.

Tigress did so. She took a seat. Shifu looked at her.

“You came at the perfect moment,” he began.

“For what?” Tigress asked.

Shifu sighed.

“Tigress, all this talk about Tai Lung’s return has caused me to start thinking of the future. I will not be around forever, and I want to make sure that you’re cared for and protected,” he began.

Tigress looked at her father.

“Dad, what are you getting at?” she asked.

Shifu smiled slightly.

“I want you to consider marrying Po soon,” he said.

Tigress was a bit shocked.

“I don’t think now is a good time,” she said.

Shifu nodded.

“Yes, now is not a good time. We must focus on choosing the Dragon Warrior. However, you can consider it. You have been romantically involved with him for several years now,” he said.

Tigress gave her father a small smile as their discussion continued. Before long, it was over and Po returned. Tigress told him of what her father had said to her. To her shock, Po revealed that Mr. Ping had given him the same speech. Afterward, the two lovers shared a laugh. They then returned to their training. the day of the tournament had arrived. Everything was set up. Oogway, Shifu and Su-Lin walked down the steps into the arena. The citizens of the village took their places in the bleachers. Shifu looked at Oogway.

“It is a historic day, isn’t it, Master Oogway?” the Red panda began.

“Indeed it is. Is your daughter and her fellow students ready?” the tortoise asked.

“Yes, Master Oogway,” Shifu replied.

“Good. Now, remember this, my friend. Whomever I choose will not only bring peace to the valley, but to you,” the tortoise informed him.

And what a tournament it was! Po, Tigress and the others competed, each of them taking on a different challenge and beating it. Finally, after Po’s match against Mei Ling, Oogway was ready to pick the Dragon Warrior. The students all lined up. From the direction in which the tortoise was walking, everyone assumed that Tigress was about to get picked. Shifu looked on proudly. Po, seeing that his girlfriend was tired and thirsty, went to get her some water from the wooden water bucket that was there for them. Using the scooping cup, he poured the liquid into a cup. Unfortunately, he tripped, spilling the water and landing in front of Oogway as he was pointing. The choice was made.

“You have been chosen,” Oogway told Po.

“WHAT?!” Shifu exclaimed as he went to confront Oogway.

All Po could do was sit up and look at Tigress. Tears filled his eyes.

“I’m sorry,” he said.

Tigress kneeled by his side. Shifu complained about the choice, but Oogway merely looked at him.

“There are no accidents,” he said.

Oogway then moved aside as the servant geese came and took Po to the Hall of Warriors. Tigress approached Shifu and Su-Lin. She bowed.

“I’m sorry, Dad. I failed you,” she apologized.

“No, Tigress. You did not fail. The choice was Oogway’s. Now that Po has been chosen, I ask your help in training him,” Shifu replied.

“Yes sir,” Tigress responded.

Shifu could only hope that his skills were good enough to turn his daughter’s boyfriend into the great and mighty Dragon Warrior. Meanwhile, in the cold, snowy mountains far from the valley, Zeng arrived at Chor-Ghom prison, the place where Tai Lung had been held for the last twenty years. The Anvil of Heaven, a one- thousand strong army of elite battle rhinos devoted to fighting injustice across China, guarded him. The powerful and fearsome Commander Vachir led them, and it was this personality that met Zeng at the door. He read Zeng’s message and glared at Zeng.

“You doubt my prison’s security?!” the rhino roared.

“Absolutely not. Shifu does, I’m just the messenger,” Zeng replied.

“I’ll give you a message for your Master Shifu,” Vachir stated.

Vachir then began to lead Zeng into the dark, dank cavern that was Chor-Ghom prison. Along the way, Vachir began speaking again.

“So, what’s been going on with Shifu? I haven’t heard from him since Tai Lung was brought here,” the rhino said.

“Well, he’s been busy raising and training his daughter,” Zeng replied nervously.

“Curious. I didn’t know he had a daughter. What’s her name?” Vachir continued.

“Tigress,” Zeng answered.

“Unusual name for a Red panda,” Vachir remarked.

“Oh, she’s not a Red panda. She’s a tiger,” Zeng informed him.

Vachir thought on this for a second, and then came back to the present situation.

“Well then. Back to the issue of the prison. Escape from Chor-Ghom prison is impossible!” he rhino began.

Zeng took a moment to look over a balcony. Vachir shoved him from behind, causing a feather to start falling down into the darkness below.

“Impressive, isn’t it?” Vachir asked.

“It’s very impressive,” Zeng said in his nervous tone.

“One way in, one way out. One thousand guards and one prisoner,” Vachir explained.

“Yes, except that prisoner is Tai Lung,” Zeng stated.

Vachir took Zeng to an elevator basket. It took them down to a door, which opened, revealing Tai Lung. He was encased in an iron turtle shell with many jade acupuncture needles stuck into him. His arms were chained to massive boulders.

“Behold Tai Lung,” Vachir declared.

“I’m just going to wait right here,” Zeng said.

“It’s nothing to worry about. It’s perfectly safe,” the rhino said with an eerie chuckle.

He then shoved Zeng into the room. He then looked at some guards up on a platform.

“Crossbows at the ready!” he ordered.

Vachir then looked at the trapped Snow leopard.

“Hey, tough guy, did you hear? Oogway’s giving someone the Dragon Scroll, and it’s not going to be you,” Vachir said.

“What are you doing?! Don’t get him mad!” Zeng exclaimed.

“What’s he going to do? I’ve got him completely immobilized,” Vachir replied.

The rhino then proceeded to stomp on Tai Lung’s tail, causing Zeng to jump back.

“Aww, did I step on the wittle kitty’s tail?” Vachir mocked.

“I’m good. I’ve seen enough. I’ll tell Shifu that he has nothing to worry about,” Zeng replied.

“No, he doesn’t,” Vachir said.

Zeng prepared to leave, but Vachir, who wished to prove to him the inescapability of Chor-Ghom, detained him. Meanwhile, Zeng’s feather fell near Tai Lung. His vicious yellow eyes flashed open, and his tail dragged the feather near him. Little did anyone know that the supposedly impossible was about to become reality.

[KingKovu44]

Chapter 8


at the Jade Palace, Shifu, Su-Lin and Tigress met Po in the Hall of Warriors.

“So, panda, are you ready to start your Dragon Warrior training?” Shifu began.

“Uh, I guess,” Po replied.

“No! There is no ‘I guess’. You’re either ready or you’re not,” Shifu explained.

“Ok, I’m ready,” Po answered.

“Good. Now, remember this: this training is far harder than what you’ve endured over the years. It isn’t a time to sit there and stare at Tigress, although she’ll be there helping me. Do you understand?” Shifu continued.

“Yes master,” Po told him.

“Good. Now, training begins tomorrow. Get good sleep,” Shifu instructed.

And with that, Po left for his room. Po awoke bright and early that morning. He knew that this was a big day, for he would begin his Dragon Warrior training. At breakfast, he met Tigress.

“So, are you ready, Po? This won’t be easy,” she reminded.

“Come on. I’ve been training for years. It shouldn’t be difficult,” Po replied.

“It will be difficult,” a voice said.

They turned to see Shifu.

“Po, Tigress is right. It’s not like the training you’ve had since you were six years old. By the time we’re done, you’ll be aching like never before,” the Red panda stated.

Po looked back at Tigress.

“Why didn’t you warn me about that?” he asked.

“It’s not my place to warn you about that,” Tigress replied.

Shifu nodded at his daughter, and then looked at Po again.

“Now, are you ready?” Shifu asked.

Po sighed.

“Yes,” the panda stated.

“Good. Now, after breakfast, we will depart,” Shifu said as he left.

Po looked at his girlfriend.

“Depart? Where are we going?” he asked.

“You’ll see,” Tigress replied.

And so, after they were finished eating, the trek began. They had walked for quite a long time before Po looked at Shifu and spoke.

“I know you’re trying to be all mystical and Kung Fu-ey, but could you at least tell me where we’re going?” he said.

Shifu said nothing and continued walking. Then, all of a sudden, he stopped.

“Dad, why are we stopping?” Tigress asked.

“This is the place, Tigress,” Shifu responded.

“What place?” Po added.

Shifu turned.

“This is a special place. It is the birthplace of Kung Fu,” the Red panda explained.

“Birthplace?” Po asked.

“This is where Oogway first created our art,” Shifu continued.

Po started to become excited.

“Are you ready to learn?” Shifu asked.

“YES!” Po exclaimed.

Ignoring the outburst, Shifu set to work. He looked at Tigress.

“So, dear daughter, how should we start?” he asked.

“How about stretching? Like you always made us do?” Tigress responded.

“Very good, Tigress,” Shifu replied.

The Red panda looked at Po.

“And now, panda, we begin,” he said.

And so, for the rest of the day, Po endured rigorous training under his girlfriend and her father. It involved advanced punches, kicks and so on. By the time it was over, Po was exhausted.

“Oh, I don’t know if I’ll be able to make it back!” the panda exclaimed.

Tigress smiled at him.

“Come on. I’ve been planning a surprise for you this whole time,” she said.

“What is it?” Po asked.

“You’ll see,” Tigress replied.

And so, they trekked home. When they arrived, Tigress turned to Po.

“Wait just a bit, and then meet me at the bathhouse, then in the relaxation room,” she instructed.

“Why?” Po asked.

“You’ll see,” Tigress replied as she left.

Po waited for a bit, and then took off for the bathhouse. When he arrived, he discovered that Tigress had drawn a relaxing bath for him.

“It’s ready for you,” she said.

After the two exchanged a kiss, Tigress left and Po slipped into the warm water. He relaxed. When he was done, he went to the relaxation room, where Tigress waited with fresh tea. As she sat in her cozy seat, she looked so beautiful, so serene. It was almost impossible to tell that she had been involved in intensive Kung Fu training all day. Tigress motioned for her boyfriend to come and sit by her, which he did. She looked directly into his eyes.

“You did great today,” she began.

“Well, I tried,” Po answered.

They looked at each other.

“I love you,” Po said.

“As do I,” Tigress replied.

They then took drinks of their tea.

“So, do you like it?” Tigress asked.

“Yeah, but not as much as I like you,” the panda said.

“Po, am I the only thing you think about all day?" Tigress continued.

“Pretty much,” Po answered.

“Even during training?” Tigress said.

“Yeah,” Po stated.

Tigress chuckled.

“Well, you still did great,” Tigress said as she and Po kissed again.

It was a pleasant moment, one that seemed to last for an eternity. The green eyes of the panda stared deep into the yellow eyes of the tiger. Both were in a state of bliss. They knew they were meant to be. Back at Chor-Ghom Prison, Tai Lung was busy. With his tail, he manipulated Zeng’s feather and inserted it into a crack on the top of the turtle shell restraint. With repeated tail slaps, it went further and further, causing the jade needles that disrupted his energy flow to shoot out in all directions. Finally, Tai Lung shattered the armor. Hearing the sound, Vachir and Zeng rushed to the balcony.

“OH NO!” Vachir exclaimed.

“What’s happening?!” Zeng echoed.

The rhino guards leapt into action.

“Fire crossbows!” Vachir ordered.

The guards did as instructed. However, Tai Lung moved slightly, causing the arrow to destroy one of his chains. Tai Lung snarled and broke off the other one. Zeng went into a full panic.

“Tai Lung is free! I must warn Master Shifu!” he shouted.

“You’re not going anywhere and neither is he!” Vachir replied.

The rhino then began shouting orders as Tai Lung leapt into the air, using the fired arrows as steps. Finally, he made it to the top, engaging the rhino guards along the way as he did so.

“We’re dead, so very dead!” Zeng complained.

“Not yet, we’re not!” Vachir announced.

He then ordered boulders from the ceiling of the cave from which the prison was built to be dropped, destroying the various pathways leading to the exit. Alas, this failed as well. In desperation, Vachir ordered an explosive boulder to be dropped, but this also failed. Tai Lung merely used it to his own advantage. Finally, Vachir’s courage faltered.

“Can we run now?” Zeng asked.

“Yes,” Vachir answered in a nervous tone.

However, they never got a chance, Tai Lung tossed the boulder, and there was a huge explosion. Vachir and all the guards died in the blast. Only Zeng and Tai Lung survived. Zeng found himself pushed back into the snow outside. From the smoking ruins of the door walked Tai Lung. He wore no shirt, and wore only purple training pants and a black leather belt with little metal studs on it. He eyed the goose and picked him up.

“I’m glad Shifu sent you. I was beginning to think I had been forgotten,” Tai Lung said.

Zeng stuttered in fear.

“Go back and tell him that the real Dragon Warrior is coming home,” Tai Lung instructed.

Tai Lung then released him. Zeng began his return to the Jade Palace. For a long time, he traveled until he finally returned home. Shifu was meditating in the training room when he heard the wing flaps.

“Inner peace, inner peace, inn…Will whoever is making that racket please quit it?!” he said.

It was then that Zeng arrived. Shifu smiled happily.

“Zeng, nice to see you. I could use some good news right now,” Shifu said.

Zeng then spoke.

“THERE IS NO GOOD NEWS! TAI LUNG HAS ESCAPED AND IS ON HIS WAY RIGHT NOW!”

Shifu was horrified. He knew that at this time, Master Oogway often meditated under the sacred peach tree. He headed there now.

“Master! Your vision came true! Tai Lung has escaped!” Shifu announced.

Oogway turned his gaze onto his student, ready to speak.

"Yes, and my time has now come. Shifu, my faithful student, you are now in charge," Oogway stated.

"Huh?" Shifu asked.

Before his very eyes, Master Oogway, the inventor of Kung Fu, passed away in the midst of many peach petals. Shifu was now alone. He was also in charge, and it was now time for him to tell the others. It was also time for Po’s training to be completed and for him to receive the Dragon Scroll. The next day, Shifu called everyone before him.

“Everyone, I bear bad news,” the Red panda began.

“What is it, Dad?” Tigress asked.

Shifu wasted no time.

“Tai Lung has escaped,” he said.

Everyone gasped.

“Dad, what are we going to do?” Tigress said.

“It’s time for one last training session, and then, Po will acquire the Dragon Scroll,” Shifu replied.

“WHOO-HOO! I AM THE DRAGON WARRIOR!” Po exclaimed.

Mei Ling ignored him and stepped forward.

“Will Oogway be presenting the scroll?” the female Mountain cat asked.

“No,” Shifu replied.

“Why not?” Mei Ling continued.

Shifu explained.

“We have lost a great man,” Tigress said.

“Yes. Now, come. Training must begin now. We will all aid Po,” Shifu stated.

Po spent the rest of the day in the final stage of his training. He had mock matches against all of his friends, the final one being against Tigress. When he was done, as the sun was going down, Shifu declared him ready and he was taken to the Hall of Warriors. Before everyone, Shifu performed the ritual that would bring the scroll down from the ceiling and to the forked end of the staff Oogway had given him. Following that, Shifu handed the tube containing the Dragon Scroll.

“Take it, Po, and become the Dragon Warrior,” Shifu instructed.

Po accepted the tube and opened it. He removed the scroll and unrolled it. Immediately, he looked down in disappointment.

“Po, what is it?” Tigress asked.

“It’s blank!” Po replied.

“What? It can’t be blank,” Tigress continued.

“It is,” Po said with a sigh.

The panda then collapsed to the floor, dejected. Tigress went to comfort him.

“It’s ok, Po. Disappointments happen,” she said as she held him.

Shifu sighed. He knew that things had become very complicated. He looked at his students, Tigress first.

“Tigress, I am very proud to have been your father. You are my daughter and I love you with all of my heart,” he told her, his tone tinged with obvious sadness.

Tigress reacted to this instantly.

“And I’m proud to be your daughter,” she replied.

Shifu nodded, and then looked at Po and the others.

“I am proud to have been your master. Now, as we all know, Tai Lung will arrive soon. I will stay behind and try to hold him off. I want you all to go down and evacuate the Valley,” he said.

Tigress’ eyes went wide and she stepped forward.

“But Dad, he’ll kill you!” she exclaimed.

Shifu looked at her.

“Then I will have paid for my mistake,” he said.

The Red panda then turned his back on them.

“Now, go and get the citizens out of the Valley,” he instructed.

Po, Tigress and the others left to do as instructed. Outside, it was getting dark. From the realm he had entered, that of the great masters of the past, Oogway watched, waiting for Po to realize his destiny.

[KingKovu44]

Chapter 9


In the village, Po, Tigress and the others were busy gathering the village residents and starting the process of getting them out. Back at the Jade Palace, Shifu waited outside. Finally, Tai Lung arrived. The wicked Snow leopard looked upon his master and father. Shifu then left. Moments later, he and Tai Lung looked upon each other once more.

“I am home, Master,” Tai Lung began.

“I am not your master, and this is not your home,” Shifu replied.

“Yes. I know that you have chosen another Dragon Warrior,” Tai Lung told him.

“If you’re here about the scroll, it’s been given to the Dragon Warrior,” Shifu stated.

“WHY?! YOU KNEW THE SCROLL WAS MINE! BUT WHEN OOGWAY MADE HIS CHOICE, WHAT DID YOU DO? NOTHING!” Tai Lung roared.

“That was not my choice!” Shifu countered.

“NOT YOUR CHOICE?! NOT YOUR CHOICE?! WHO WAS THE ONE WHO HAD ME PRACTICE UNTIL MY BONES ACHED?! WHO FILLED MY HEAD WITH DREAMS?! I WORKED HARD TO MAKE YOU PROUD! TELL ME HOW PROUD YOU ARE OF ME!” Tai Lung demanded.

“I have always been proud of you, but my mistake was to become blind to what you were becoming, what I was turning you into. But, believe me when I say that you were never meant to be the Dragon Warrior,” Shifu stated.

These were the statements that enraged Tai Lung the most. He leapt into action, as did Shifu. Their fight was swift and brutal, and only ended when Tai Lung picked the Red panda up and slammed him hard into the ground. Upon impact, he shouted in pain. Back in the village, Po and Tigress were helping Mr. Ping finish packing up his wagon. The goose could see the sadness in his son’s face.

“Cheer up, son. We’ll go on to another village and establish ourselves there. You can marry Tigress and we’ll start a brand new life. Would you like that?” he asked.

Po only sighed. Meanwhile, Tigress allowed herself to envision herself as Po’s wife, helping out in the restaurant. She then brought herself back to reality, thinking of her beloved father. As Po steadied some stuff in the pile, his hands brushed the tube containing the Dragon Scroll. Mr. Ping looked at his son one last time.

“Listen to me, Po. Now that you are about to marry and move on with your life, I want to tell you something important, something I probably should have told you a long time ago,” he said.

Po turned and listened intently.

“The secret to my secret ingredient soup is…nothing. What makes it special is me believing that it’s special,” Mr. Ping said.

Po was shocked to hear this.

“Nothing? No secret ingredient?” he asked.

“Nothing,” Mr. Ping replied.

As he thought of this, Po picked up the Dragon Scroll and removed it from its tube. Suddenly, he had a realization.

“I realize the meaning of the scroll!” he exclaimed.

“What is it?” Tigress asked.

“There’s no secret ingredient. It’s just you!” he said, this realization allowing him to truly become the Dragon Warrior.

As he spoke, he looked back towards the Jade Palace. He then looked at Tigress.

“Tigress, lead everyone out of the Valley. I’m going back to help Shifu,” he said.

Tigress’ eyes went wide.

“Po, Tai Lung might kill you,” she said.

Po looked into her eyes.

“I’m the Dragon Warrior. It’s my destiny,” he said.

Tigress nodded.

“I understand, Po. Do what must be done,” she said.

Po kissed her and then headed for the Jade Palace. Tigress wistfully watched him until he vanished from sight. Following that, she looked at Mr. Ping and the others.

“Come on. We must get out of here,” she said.

And so, they began to move out of the Valley. Back at the Jade Palace, Tai Lung paced menacingly as Shifu struggled to his feet.

“I say this once more: I want my scroll!” he shouted.

Shifu winced in pain as he got up.

“You will never have the scroll,” he said.

Tai Lung struck in fury, once again picking up Shifu and slamming him into the ground. He then raised his paw, claws extended, in order to disembowel his former father and master. However, this never happened, as the voice of Po stopped him.

“Hey!” Po shouted.

Tai Lung turned to see the bulky panda standing in the doorway. He looked at Shifu.

“This is the Dragon Warrior? A panda?” he asked in disbelief.

Tai Lung looked at Po.

“What are you going to do, big guy? Sit on me?” he asked mockingly.

Po laughed.

“Don’t tempt me,” he retorted.

Po then took up a fight stance.

“Now, I’m going to beat you with this,” he taunted as he held up the scroll.

Tai Lung attacked immediately, and a massive battle ensued. This fight spilled into the village itself. They leapt from buildings, kicked, jumped and more. It eventually created a huge crater in the ground. Po knocked Tai Lung back as, to his horror, the Snow leopard discovered that the scroll was actually blank. He got up.

“You can’t beat me! You’re just a big, fat panda!” Tai Lung said.

As Tai Lung came over to attack again, Po grabbed his finger.

“I’m not a big, fat panda, I’m the big, fat panda!” Po said as he picked up his pinky.

Tai Lung panicked.

“No! Not the Wuxi finger hold! Shifu didn’t teach you that!” Tai Lung exclaimed.

“Nope, I figured it out on my own,” Po said with a sly grin.

Tai Lung became more afraid.

“Skadoosh!” Po exclaimed as he flexed his pinky.

Tai Lung was then obliterated in a brilliant golden flash. On the outskirts of the village, Tigress and the others saw the flash. Tigress decided that she had to return and see what had happened for herself. She looked at the group she was leading.

“Come on. We’re going back,” she said.

Everyone followed the young female tiger back towards the village. Upon arrival, she saw Po standing by the hold in the ground.

“PO!” Tigress called out.

Po turned to see Tigress. He ran to her. The lovers embraced and shared a deep kiss for a few minutes before looking at each other.

“Po, what happened?” Tigress asked.

Po smiled.

“I defeated Tai Lung with the Wuxi finger hold,” he said.

Tigress nodded, remembering the time Shifu threatened to use the move on Po.

“My father would be proud of you,” she said.

Just then, Po remembered Shifu.

“Shifu is back at the Jade Palace. Tigress, come with me,” he said.

Just then, the voice of Mr. Ping rang out.

“What a joyous day this is! That warrior is my son!” the goose exclaimed as he ran up and hugged Po.

The panda laughed.

“Thanks, Dad. Right now, I need to check on Shifu,” he said.

Mr. Ping nodded. Po and Tigress ran to the Jade Palace. Tigress ran to Shifu’s side. The Red panda was still lying on the ground, not moving.

“Dad! Dad! Are you all right?!” she exclaimed.

Shifu did not move. Po went over and began to shake him.

“Master Shifu, please don’t be dead!” he exclaimed over and over again.

Suddenly, Shifu awoke.

“I’m not dead, you idiot!” he shouted.

He then realized what he had said.

“I mean…Dragon Warrior,” he said.

Po smiled.

“Master Shifu, I did it. I defeated Tai Lung,” he said proudly.

Shifu was happy.

“Then I am finally at peace,” he said.

Tigress looked her love and the eyes.

“I’m proud of you, Po,” she said.

Po nodded.

“The thought of you motivated me,” he said.

Tigress leaned in and kissed him. Shifu watched this.

“Ah, true love. Cherish that love forever, you two,” he said.

Po and Tigress nodded. Now, they could continue on with their lives.