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Chapter Text

Quasi loved seeing the world… he loved meeting new people. He felt as if he’d almost seen everything. Well not everything. His next stop was China. He of course was in Paris for supplies and to see his friends but soon he would be gone. His friend Phoebus on the other hand was a bit wary.

He warned him that the people of China were not to fond of outsiders. Especially since some parts of China had recently been taken over by violent warlords. He lied saying he wasn’t scared. However that night as he set out for China was the worst night ever! The ship was rocked by terrible storms. He ended up hiding in his cabin the whole way there because every time he set foot on deck he’d get seasick. His misfortune however did not stop there.

By the time he’d set foot on the shore and the ship was already sailing away he realized that he was missing the bag of money Phoebus had given him. He must have left it on the ship. Or worse it had been stolen. The days were agony his stomach empty from months at sea. He became so desperate for food, so desperate that he stole some fruit from a cart.

He’d gotten caught, unfortunately. They would have cut off his hands; a punishment that many practiced on thieves. Thankfully his life was spared and they threw him in a cell where he was later released by a sympathetic guard. The guard told him of the monastery where an old monk lived. It was the perfect place to hide. The guards were already planning on sending him back to Europe. But he just got here. He wasn’t planning on leaving just yet.

He’d run to this monastery. hide… until they’d thought he’d left the country or at least until they forgot about him. That is… if he didn’t get caught. That night as he ran through the rain he could see the lights for the monastery in the distance. The heavy rain blurred his vision. He gulped. “Here goes nothing.” He stepped out of his hiding place as he approached the monastery.

Thankfully no one tried to stop him. He knocked on the door praying no one was home. However much to his dismay the door creaked open. Standing in front of him was an old man with a long white beard and tattered robes. “Yes what is it?”

Quasimodo flinched under the man’s probing stare until he realized that the man was blind. “I-I need a place to stay and I was told to come here.” The old man smiled. “Of course. Come in, come in!”

“We don’t get many visitors.” Quasimodo wasn’t sure what he meant by we but decided it was best not to ask. “The rooms upstairs if you want to dry off. I’m sure you’re soaked to the bone.” Quasimodo nodded climbing up the rickety old stairs.

That night he gazed longingly out of his window. He wished he could see more of this beautiful country. If only he could sneak around without being seen. Little did he realize his wish would be granted. In more ways than one.

Chapter Text

The next morning Quasimodo woke early that morning. As a way to repay the old man for his kindness he swept the floors of the monastery. “You really don’t have to do that boy.” The old man insisted. “Of course I do. It’s the least I can do for you letting me stay here.”

“Yes but, your my guest. You should be doing what other young folk your age do. Sightseeing, buying those little souvenirs they sell in shops, I don’t know. What do you want to do, boy.” The young man froze. No one had ever asked him that before.

“I-I don’t know I…” The old man chuckled. “Look, there’s a festival going on today, the monkey king festival. It’s really fun. I think you’ll enjoy it.

“W-who’s the monkey king?”

“You have never heard of the monkey king?” The boy shook his head. “N-no?”

Oh he’s one of my favorite stories. He was a warrior. A great hero! Some even thought he might be a god! The stories say that he incredible powers.”

Quasimodo stared at him eagerly wanting to hear more. “What kind of powers?” The old man chuckled at his curiosity. “Well let’s see now… he had incredible strength, and incredible speed and he was able to transform into 72 different animals for he wasn’t just the king of monkeys, but of all animals. Though he preferred the form of a monkey above all others.”

“What else could he do?”

He could command the very wind as well as varies other spells like protection spells or spells that could freeze even a god in there place.”

“Wow.”

“You know there’s an old story. Hmm… how did it go again. Ah no matter why don’t you go enjoy the festival.” Quasimodo looked at the broom in his hands. “A-are you sure?”

“I’ve been taking care of this place for 80 years. This was my father’s monastery. I think I can handle it. Go… have fun.” Quasimodo beamed with excitement.

“Thank you.”

“Oh one more thing.” The old man handed him a heavy black cloak. “I figured you could use a new one.” Quasimodo thanked him as he walked out onto the street.

How did he know he needed a new cloak? He was blind… wasn’t he? Of course he’s blind! You saw with your own eyes. “Still there something suspicious about him. I should be carful.”

However thoughts of the old man disappeared replaced with wonder at the paper lanterns. He saw acrobats preforming for a crowd nearby. Vendors sold food of all kinds he was lucky the old man had given him some money. Payment for sweeping the floors.

He bought a bowl of noodles and some dumplings as he watched a man dressed as the mythical figure himself walk across burning hot coals. This was a strange festival. Suddenly he noticed a group of guards talking to the vendor he’d bought his food from. The man pointed in his direction.

Quasimodo jumped up and quickly ducked into an alley before they could find him. He was sad that he didn’t get to finish his food but it was that or they caught him. Suddenly he heard voices nearby. He crept towards the sound coming across a school teacher with a group of children showing them a picture of the monkey king.

“Alright children who knows the story of the Dragons and the monkey king? No one?” The woman smiled. “Well the story began a thousand years ago. It was said that the monkey king began teaching the other animals to speak.”

“The human emperor however was not happy about this so he sent his guards to get rid of the monkey king and his talking animals. The monkey king feared nothing for he was an immortal god… but he feared for the lives of the other animals. So he pleaded with the king of the dragons for help.”

He watched as she held up another scroll. The monkey king standing before a terrifying serpent like beast with antlers, it’s scales gleaming gold like the sun. The dragons in China were definitely different from the stories from his home. “The dragon king created a deadly storm to keep the humans away then with the monkey kings magic staff they vanished with the storm.”

“Some say the monkey king brought animals from all over our world together bringing them to a new world. A world just like ours. A world where they would be safe from human cruelty and judgment.” The teacher unfurled a final scroll. “However it is said that one day a human will learn the secrets of the animals and become… the bridge between the two worlds … the dragon warrior.”

“Bridge? Dragon warrior?” Quasimodo watched the children leave with there teacher. He was fascinated by the story he just heard. He wondered if this was the story the old man had tried to tell him.

“Hey you!” Quasimodo froze. A guard was glaring at him from across the square. He ran. “Stop!” Quasimodo headed back towards the monastery however no sooner had he knocked on the door he was dragged inside.

“Did they see you?”

“Uh who- the guards! Were you followed?”Suddenly they heard a knock at the door. “We know your in there foreigner. Come out slowly and we won’t kill you.”

“I… the old man sighed. Of course your a foreigner. I suppose the accent should have gave it away. Your from France I gather. “Y-yes. I’m… I’m sorry I- no don’t apologize boy. You have nothing to be sorry about.”

“This country has been buckling down on foreigners recently. There are lot of people who don’t want foreign strangers on our land. But you seem like a kind boy so I’m going to help you. So listen up.”

“There is an abandoned temple in the mountains. Go there. It’ll be safe.” Quasimodo squeezed the old man’s hand gratefully. “Thank you.” Quasimodo climbed out the window and ran towards the forest.

Thankfully it didn’t sound like he was being followed but he still needed to hide. He just hoped he reached the temple in time.

The temple was a lot bigger than he’d imagined and he didn’t expect a giant statue of a bear to be sitting outside it. “A panda,”he realized. He’d seen pictures of it from Chinese sailors while on his way here. He yawned as his curled up in the corner of the temple. He hoped the old man would be alright.

He had been so kind to him after all. Maybe it would be safe to return later on tonight considering all his things were back in the monastery. He closed his eyes as he drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Text

Quasimodo tossed and turned shivering against the cold night wind that battered the old temple; the cold floor hurting his back. He slept fitfully, unaware of the dark serpentine shadow slithering towards him. The shadow wrapped around his throat. Quasimodo began to choke and gasp for air as he started to wake. The beast made of shadows began to tighten its grip.

Quasimodo tried to cry for help still half asleep. A blinding light filled the room as loud inhuman shriek echoed across the walls. To his terror the floor started to give out from underneath him. He could see light beneath him, a cool breeze ruffling his hair as he fell into the blinding light.

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Quasimodo groaned in pain. What happened? And why did he feel like he’d hit concrete. His whole body was sore. He remembered the light, the feeling of the wind rushing around him.

What had happened to him? He could hear hushed whispers above him. He opened his eyes. Staring down at him were… animals? A few pigs and a sheep. Was this a dream?

“No even I can dream something this crazy.” They we’re dressed in similar clothes to the people he’d seen in China. Was he still in China? He sat up and the animals backed away eyes wide. “Monster!”

One of the pigs screamed. The animals scattered and as he looked around he could see other animals. Geese, goats, even rabbits. They all ran from him. He tried to say something but all he could do was stand there and watch as they ran leaving the square empty. Quasimodo looked for somewhere to hide and quickly ducked into a nearby alleyway.

He’s legs shook and fell against the wall tears streaming down his face. He rested his head against the wall as he silently cried. He didn’t belong here… he wanted to go home. But how he didn’t even know where “here” was. What if someone found him here?

He wasn’t safe here. But where could he go?” He looked up and then he saw it. A large castle or palace nestled high on the mountain top. It would be a long climb but it looked like a safe place to hide.

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He was wrong. This was a horrible idea! He couldn’t even get in! He tugged on door but it wouldn’t budge. He was about to give up when the doors opened by themselves. It was almost like… magic.

He looked around in the courtyard. Thankfully… there were no guards. Which he found strange. He’d seen enough castles and palaces on his trips to know that they were always guarded. He was about to step through the gate when he heard heavy footsteps.

Frantically he rushed halfway down the stairs ducking behind a rock. “Please don’t find me . Please don’t find me.” He thought he heart racing.

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The Jade palace was an ancient place. A place where warriors were made. However there was only one warrior within its halls at the moment. A large black and white panda bear sat cross legged next to a crystal clear pool. A golden dragon rested above his head mouth agape as if mid roar.

“Inner peace. Inner peace.” Po was getting old. He hated it but it was happening whether he liked it or not. He wondered how shiffu was able to still perform Kung fu in his old age. True he was only Fourty six now almost close to forty seven... but the closer he got to fifty older he felt.

“Inner peace… he froze. He could sense someone. Someone was here. He stood up, back cracking. “Oh my back.” He walked towards the front door and looked outside. “Hmm no one here.”

A flash of green caught his eye as someone darted back down the stairs. Po ran after them unaware about what he was really dealing with.

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Quasimodo covered his face. Heart drumming loudly in his ears. The footsteps stopped inches from him and then faded back up the stairs. Quasimodo sighed relieved. He stepped out from his hiding spot as he tried to run back down the stairs only to run into a solid wall of black and white fur.

Quasimodo fell backwards hitting his head. He looked up confused. “Oh! I’m so sorry. Are you alright? Quasimodo collapsed onto the pavement.

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Po panicked. “He passed out?! What am going to do! He wasn’t expecting to find… whatever this thing was but at least he was still breathing. For now. But he could have a serious concussion.At least he looked like a he. He wasn’t even sure what he was.

He picked him up huffing as he tossed him over his back. Geez what do you eat? Bricks? He was glad he still had his strength. Though it was starting to fade with his age.

He hoped he would wake up soon. He had questions. Like what was he and why had he been sneaking around the jade palace? He carried him inside shutting the door behind him. Unaware of a figure watching them from a nearby hill. Green eyes glowing with hatred.

Chapter Text

Quasimodo shivered as he tried to sit up. He held his head wincing. “What happened?” He’d been trying to leave that castle… No not castle palace. The next thing he knew someone had found him and then… he blacked out.

He vaguely remembered a voice. Though it was all a blur at the moment.
He rubbed his tired eyes surprised to find himself still in the palace. Or at least he thought he was still in the palace. It was hard to tell though. Compared to the palace the room seemed quite… simple.

It looked like any room in China would. A combination of wood and paper dividers, sunlight streaming into the room from the window above him. He got to his feet, legs shaking as he made his way towards the door. He tried to open it but too his dismay
it was locked. He thought about trying the window but it wasn’t likely he’d fit.

Not to mention he didn’t know how high off the ground he was. Luckily he was able to find a pin to pick the lock with. Thankfully it fit perfectly and he was able to get the door safety open. He looked around the empty hall. It was so quiet. How long had he been asleep?

Quasimodo crept into the hallway a floorboard squeaking under his foot. He froze looking around as if he was expecting an ambush. When no one rushed down the towards him he was able to relax. He continued down the hall as quietly as he could be. He just hoped there there weren’t any more talking animals like the ones he’d seen in the village. He didn’t think his heart could take another fright.

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“Come on Shifu, please!”

“Absolutely not! That creature cannot stay here!”

“But…Why not? I mean…he’s just a kid.” Shifu sighed exasperated. “Do you even know what that… that “thing” is? Hmm…?

“Uh… I mean… I don’t know I thought it was something like monkey, but you know without the fur and the… tail.” Shifu sighed. That creature… is called a human. Po gasped jaw dropping eyes wide. “A human! But their supposed to be… you know… a myth.”

“Did that thing look, like a myth to you? You need to get rid of it.” Po looked shocked. “Get rid of… but he’s just a kid.”

“He’s dangerous Po!”

Po stood his ground against his old master and friend. “That was hundreds of years ago, maybe they’ve changed!”

“They had a chance to change… once…but they chose to butcher us instead! “Po stood his ground refusing to back down. “So that gives us the right to kill a defenseless boy… for what something… something his ancestors did?” Come on Shifu… have a heart.”

Shifu sighed. “Alright. Fine! Don’t say I didn’t warn you. Even if that creature isn’t a threat more of its kind could come looking for him.”

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Quasimodo looked around at the palace in awe. The walls and floors covered in green stone. Tall green columns lined the room.

He looked up. A golden dragon stared down at him from the ceiling mouth open wide in a permanent snarl. However he was once again careless in watching where he was going and ran into a wall of black and white. “Oh, sorry. I didn’t see you there.”

Quasimodo’s eyes widened. “Huh, I thought you were asleep still.” He backed away. Standing in front of him was a giant talking Panda bear. He did what anyone faced with the unbelievable would do. He ran.

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Po was shocked at finding the human standing in front of him. However what surprised him even more was when he let out a scream and ran. He only managed to get a few feet as he slipped taking a display case of throwing stars down with him. He tried to Approach him but he ducked behind a jade column. It was than that Po understood what was going on.

“Your scared of me.” In all his life Po had never seen anyone hide from him before. He kneeled down holding out a hand as spoke in a soft whisper trying to be as quiet as he could so he wouldn’t spook the poor kid.

“It’s ok… I’m not going hurt you.” He said gently holding out a paw. The human stared at him with a dazed and confused expression. He looked a bit… pale. His skin almost had a green tint to it. Was he going to be sick?

Po stepped closer as the kid stared up at him curious but still scared. Po held out his hand. “Let me help you up.” Slowly the boy stretched out a hand towards his own as they stared at one another.

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“Shifu heard a scream. At first he thought Po might be in trouble but as he got closer to the main hall he realized it did not sound like Po. He arrived just in time to see the human dive behind a jade pillar. Normally nothing surprised him but this… this was different.

He’d seen fear before… but never had he seen fear this intense before… especially from a child his age. Most boys of the age of fifteen or sixteen didn’t act in such a manner… and yet this boy was clearly terrified. Shifu watched as Po reached out a paw towards him. To his surprise the boy reached for his hand; fear changing to light and curiosity. He’d misjudged the poor creature. Then again this wasn’t the first time he’d misjudged someone. This poor child was far from dangerous.

His heart was filled with the innocence of a young child despite the fact that he was technically almost an adult. However to his surprise the boy fell forward into his former students arms. His skin was deathly pale and slick with sweat. How could he have not seen it before?

This boy was clearly sick! He was strangely scrawny despite his stature. He wondered when the boy had eaten last. Shifu rushed over to join his student. “Shifu I don’t know what to do he just fainted and…”

Shifu place a hand on the boys forehead. “He has a fever. We have to bring that down before anything else. He’s also dehydrated and malnourished so well need food and water. Stay here while I get what we need.”

“Wait what do I do?”

“Just keep him awake long enough otherwise he could slip into a coma.” Po shook the kid hoping to wake him up long enough for Shifu to get back. However it didn’t seem to be working. “Come on kid stay with me! Stay with me!”

Chapter Text

Po watched Shifu work as he chewed his stubby claws. “Is he going to be ok?” His old teacher didn’t answer him as he continued to dab the boy forehead with a damp cloth. “Shifu- I don’t know!” Shifu sighed.

“I need you to go outside Po, get some fresh air and let me do my work in peace.”

Po looked at the kid worried even more about leaving him alone with his former teacher. After all it was Shifu who’d wanted to kill the boy. “I trust you.” Po said. “You better not let me down.”

Shifu sighed relieved that Po was finally out of his fur. He wasn’t a doctor. He wasn’t even sure if what he was doing was working. He’d tried herbal tea, medicine, and now a cold rag but nothing seemed to be working. Now that he was alone with the boy he began to notice things he hadn’t noticed before.

The cuts and bruises where the first thing he noticed they covered his body even stretching underneath the collar of his green shirt. The boy did not seem like the a fighter or a warrior so that left only one other explanation and it was one he hated to think about… abuse… cruelty. His own kind had cast him aside. Because of something that was beyond his control. Treated as less than because of his appearance. Yet… still this boy didn’t have the same darkness in his heart as the rest of his kind.

This boy looked as if he hadn’t had water or food in weeks maybe even months. He wondered if people refused him food because of the way he looked? He wondered what or who had caused the marks on his skin? Most of all he wondered if the poor boy even had a name?

This boy needed to live! What he’d seen back in the hall of warriors was a sign that peace between their kind was possible… if only they had the heart to see it through. The boy might be able to change things. They might even be able to return to the world they’d originally come from. Humans might even expect them!

“Live boy! Live!”

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Quasimodo gasped for air as he coughed. Blood trickled down his lip eyes watering as tried to speak. “W-water. P-please.” He felt a cool trickle of water spill down his dry throat.

Tears filled his eyes as he took the cup of water from whoever was holding it. “Slowly know.” The boy gasped setting the empty cup down as he rubbed his chapped lips with his sleeve. He laid back down. “Go to sleep you will be safe. You have my word.”

Quasimodo woke a few hours later feeling refreshed. He didn’t feel sick anymore. Though he was hungry. Suddenly as if to answer his prayers he heard footsteps heading down the corridor. He ducked under the blanket as the footsteps stopped in front of his room.

He held his breath as he waited for them to leave. He heard the door slide open as heavy the footsteps entered his room. He half expected the blanket to yanked off him but thankfully he was left alone. He heard what sounded like a plate or bowl being set down before whoever it was turned and left quietly shutting the door behind him. Slowly he peeked out from under the blanket.

A plate of dumplings and a bowl of soup sat on the floor across from him. He picked up the plate cautiously as if checking to make sure it wasn’t poisoned. They looked just like the ones he’d bought at the monkey king festival. Only this time he planed to finish them. Once he was finished with his meal he laid back down.

He didn’t understand why they fed him. Maybe these talking animals weren’t as frightening as they’d first appeared. Maybe they were friendly. They were definitely a lot kinder than people in his world had ever been to him.

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Po sighed as he set the bowl and plate down and returned to the Jade palace. Twenty four years had passed since Kai’s attack on the Jade palace. It had taken them years to rebuild the Jade palace and there were still priceless artifacts that they’d never be able to replace. It was sad. Though in all his years he never thought he’d see a human much less meet one!

“He needs time to process everything. He’s scared and confused. It will take him a while to get used to his environment,” Shifu had explained. “He hid from me. From me!”

“People don’t usually do that. I mean they usually think im awesome… not scary.”

“He just needs time. All of this is new for him. Just let the boy rest.” Po hesitated but agreed. However Po wasn’t the only one who visited the boy. For Shifu did as well.

He had never seen a boy much less a human with such strange features. He’d had visions of humans before… shown to him by his master… master Oogway. He was dead now of course but he had a feeling he’d known about this boys arrival. Had Oogway known that this would happen… that this boy would end up here is that why he’d shown him such visions in the first place? This boy wasn’t like any of the humans he’d heard of in stories. He had a pure heart. He wondered if humans really had changed? Surly he wasn’t the only one in his world with a kind heart… right? “Rest boy we shall see who you are soon enough.”

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Quasimodo woke up again but was unable to go back to sleep he was far too curious. He wanted to explore this strange place. He covered himself with the blanket as he walked barefoot down the hallway. Thankfully the rooms appeared empty aside from a few scattered belongings.

He peered into the palace it seemed somewhat deserted he looked around at the strange paintings and artifacts. It seemed to be nothing but old armor and weapons… things that had to do with war. He felt uneasy and slowly started to back up towards the rooms where he’d been sleeping when he hit something behind him. “Oh hey you’re awake!”

Startled the boy ran barefoot towards the palace doors with his incredible strength he was able to pry it open enough so that he could slip through. He ran to the first place that he that caught his eye… a large wooden building with polished wooden doors. It looked like a bizarre obstacle course. He froze as he heard the panda’s heavy footsteps getting closer he looked up.

A large balcony overlooked the course it was the perfect place to hide. He pulled himself up into the balcony just as the door opened. The panda looked around confused. “Hey!… where’d he go?” He tried climb up into the rafters but he fell back down.

Unfortunately the panda had heard him. “Hello? Is that you?” The boy didn’t answer. “Please just let me explain.”

He heard someone climbing the stairs to the loft. Terrified he covered himself with the blanket curling into a ball as he started to hyperventilate. “Please just leave!” He thought shaking. “Please just go away!”

But Po didn’t leave. Po could hear his breathing. He sounded on the verge of a panic attack. He’d had a few when he was little. The others in his class used to bully him for being small as well as being fat.

Of course that eventually stopped as he got bigger. He’d grown differently then the other kids so he was a lot bigger. He wondered if this kid had been bullied to? He wasn’t sure what to do. Usually his dad had helped him whenever he had an attack.

But he wasn’t his dad. He had no clue what to do. Po took a deep breath. “You can do this, you can do this.” He repeated as he slowly he reached out to the blanket covered figure.

Quasimodo flinched as he felt a hand on his shoulder. “It’s alright I’m not going to hurt you. Everything’s going to be ok.” He was surprised. Not many would have tried to calm him down.

He sniffled trying to calm himself down; though it was proving difficult. Quasimodo looked up at the panda from under the blanket. Eyes red from crying. He probably looked like a mess right now but the panda didn’t say.

“See that’s better.” The panda said smiling at him. The boy sniffled again staring at him confused. He would have run but he was to afraid to look away.

“See, nothing to be afraid of. I’m a friend.” Quasimodo was hesitant to trust this creature. He looked to be in his late fourties’ he could faintly make out streaks of grey in his black fur.

“What’s your name?” The boy avoided his gaze. He was hesitant to share his name but he didn’t have a choice. “Q-Quasimodo.”

“Whoa! That’s a mouthful.” The panda laughed. “You got a nickname
Or… How’s Quasi? That work for ya?” The boy nodded.

“Alright then Quasi. Nice to meet you… my names Po.”

Chapter Text

He was still getting used to this strange world but it was a bit difficult to explore it when he was to afraid to leave his room. He’d exited his room that day to explore. Mr. Po had told him he was welcome to explore the grounds of the “Jade palace” as it was called as long as he didn’t break anything. The halls of Jade held statues of powerful and fierce warriors from the past. Po had told him that once the halls had been filled with old artifacts and scrolls… but the Palace had been destroyed a few years ago by a dangerous and powerful warrior who wanted revenge on all that lived in the palace.

At least that was what Po had told him. It had taken a few years to rebuild the Palace but they’d managed. However despite how empty it seemed half the time the palace was far from empty. There was an old man; a red panda as Po explained to him; named Shifu.

Shifu was the owner and guardian of the jade palace and Po’s former mentor. For the most part he tried to avoid Shifu whenever he saw him. However it was difficult to avoid him when he lived there.

He knew he probably meant no harm but Quasi was still cautious when it came to strangers. However he trusted Po. Po was his friend… he’d helped him despite what he was. Though apparently it was Shifu who healed him when he was sick. Much to his surprise.

However Po hadn’t told him everything. He was exploring the grounds of the Jade Palace when he heard sounds coming from the wooden building. He peered into the room to see Po striking at spiked wooden turnstiles. It was then he realized that the room wasn’t an obstacle course… but some sort of training room. “But training for what?”

He leaned forward to get a better look causing the door to creak open. Po looked up. Quasi apologized profusely embarrassed to have been caught spying. “I- I’m sorry. I… I didn’t mean to- it’s alright come on in. “ Po said encouragingly.

Quasi hesitated but closed the door behind him as he journeyed further into the room. “I-I’m sorry for interrupting you.” Po shrugged. “Don’t worry it’s fine. You didn’t interrupt anything.”

“I-I’ve never seen a fighting style like that before… w-what’s it called?”

“What you’ve never seen Kung Fu before?” Quasi frowned. “Kung what?” Po looked surprised. “You’ve never heard of kung fu?” Quasi shook his head. “No. Where I’m from warriors use swords… not that I’ve ever used one.”

“Wait… do you not know how to fight?”

“N-no one ever taught me how.” Po grabbed him by the shoulders dragging him in front of a training dummy shaped like a bear. “Well that ends today.” Quasi frowned. “M-mr. Po what are you- hit it.” Quasi frowned. “W-w-what?”

“Go on hit it.” Quasi gulped tapping it lightly. Po sighed. “Harder… as hard as you can.” Quasi took a deep breath as he punched the dummy as hard as he could.

The dummy flew back but knocked Po backwards before returning to its normal upright position. “Oh no! Mr. Po! A-are you ok?!”

To his surprise the panda laughed. “That… was…awesome!” Quasi looked confused. “Y-you’re not mad?” Po laughed.

“Pfft’ you kidding that was fantastic! Let’s try that again… without hitting me this time ok?” The rest of the day Po showed him different techniques as well as different kung fu moves as well as explaining its history. Though in one afternoon the incident from earlier had been forgotten as Quasi improved.

He was a quick learner and blew through each lesson with ease. However they weren’t alone. Someone was watching them train. Normally nothing impressed Shifu but the boy had talent. The boy would be the perfect candidate for Po’s new apprentice.

His last… hadn’t ended so well. Po wasn’t getting any younger. He couldn’t be both the spiritual leader of the valley and its protector. Someone new must take up the title of Dragon Warrior. He’d speak with Po about it tonight but it would be difficult.

Po was sensitive when it came to the topic of apprentices, and for good reason. Perhaps this was why the boy was here… to bridge the gap between their two worlds. He just hoped he faired better than the last one.

Chapter Text

Quasi kicked the training dummy hard as it flew across the room. Quasi looked up grinning. Po clapped. Alright that was awesome let’s do that again. The duo froze when they heard someone clear their throat.

Standing behind them was Master Shifu. “Oh… master Shifu. Uh we were just- may I speak with you a moment, Po?” Po frowned. “Uh sure I guess but what do you- walk with me.”

Po glanced back at the teen who gave him a confused and worried look. Po followed after Shifu leaving quasi alone in the training hall. “Am in trouble? Is Shifu mad at Po for teaching me to fight. What if he kicks me out?!” Quasi bit his nails nervously as he waited for them to return.

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“Look Shifu I know you’re mad but you have to trust me. He’s not our enemy I- I know.” Po paused. “Wait what? Then… that why- Because… I believe it is time.”

“Time? Time for wha- hey wait a minute… no, no,- po!”

“No I’m not going to do that again! At least not yet.”

“Po you need an apprentice. You can’t be dragon warrior forever and you’re not getting any younger.”

“Yeah don’t remind me… look I can’t go through that again I almost lost one apprentice I’m not about to lose another!”

Shifu sighed. “I know… you miss Zhen… she was strong… and brave. She might have even been the toughest warrior I’ve seen in a long time. We couldn’t have predicted the Chameleon’s full nature.”

“She was a demon!” Po snapped. “Technically according to her she claimed to be a half demon but- she escaped the spirit world… she turned into a giant monster and nearly killed all of us… if it weren’t for…Zhen- I know.” Shifu sighed. “I’m sorry I didn’t like her at first but… I was wrong about her.

“But I’m not wrong about this. That boy is special he could be the answer to everything! If he becomes the Dragon Warrior then he’ll be able to bridge the gap between our world and his. Don’t you see? He could be the only one to bring peace between our two worlds.”

Po sighed. “But what if I lose him. Zhen nearly died. When she permanently broke her leg she… she left… because she felt ashamed because she would never be able to do Kung Fu again. I don’t want the same thing to happen to quasi. The poor kid doesn’t deserve it.”

“That boy is far stronger then you give him credit for… he can handle it.”

“And if dies in the process?”

“He won’t.” Shifu reassured his former student. Po sighed. “Alright I’ll go tell him the news. I just hope he’s ready.”

—————————————————

Quasi waited in the training hall for his kind friend to return however when he returned he wasn’t alone. Shifu looked between them. “I’ll give you both some space.” Quasi noticed that Po looked nervous.

“Mr. Po? Mr. Po are you alright? Po took a deep breath. “He had to tell him… he had to… but… he was afraid. What if he messed it all up again. “You won’t Shifu’s voice said in the back of his mind. “I hope he’s right”

“Mr. Po? Mr. Po are you alright? Po took a deep breath. “Here it goes.”

—————————————————

“W-w-what?” Po sighed. “I know this is difficult but… look kid the truth is I can’t be the valley’s protector and the Valley’s spiritual leader. Someone needs to take my place… to become the next dragon warrior.”

“A-and you think that’s me?” Quasi said almost laughing.

“Well… technically that’s what Shifu thinks but I understand if- well he’s wrong! He has to be. I’m no warrior.” Po sighed.

“I know it’s a lot to process but you’re good. I’ve seen it!”

“But what if a fail?”

“You won’t… not with me as a teacher.” Po sighed. “Look you’re not my first apprentice and you’re not going to be my last. I need you kid… the valley needs you.”

“The same valley that called me a monster.” Po sighed.

“They were scared… they didn’t know any better. I know you can do it I believe in you.”

“And what if you’re wrong!” Po smiled. “You know I felt the same way once… years ago when I was picked to be the dragon warrior. Me a fat and chubby panda who didn’t know a drop of Kung Fu and I became the greatest warrior in all of china!” Quasi blinked back tears. “W-were you scared?”

“Oh yeah terrified. Especially when I realized I was going to have to fight one of the strongest and most dangerous warriors in the world… but that’s a story for another time.” Quasi stared at him shocked wanting to know more but decided not to ask. Po sighed. “Look kid my point is you’re stronger than you realize and I’m not just talking physically.”

“W-what… what happened to your last apprentice?”

“She got hurt… and she left. I don’t really want to talk about it… look you don’t have to do anything you don’t want but just think about it… ok?” Quasi sighed. He smiled at his friend and teacher. “Ok.”

—————————————————

Quasi paced back and forth in his room that night thinking about what Po had told him.
If he did this there would be no going back. “But how can I be the warrior these people need me to be?”

“You once saved an entire city that hated you. That was different. Frollo was burning people’s home’s… their businesses! What was I supposed to do? Nothing?!”

“You can prove yourself to them by protecting them.”

“They’ll never trust me.”

“But they could? Maybe it’s time you give people a chance.” Quasi took a deep breath. “Then I know what I have to do.”

—————————————————

Quasi surprised Po that evening by barging into the training room. “I’ll do it!” Po grinned. “I was hoping you’d come around. What made you change your mind?”

“I don’t know. I guess… I guess I realized that I want to do more with my life. I didn’t know much in my world… but if you teach me… if you turn me into a warrior… then I can help people in my world.” Po didn’t have the heart to tell him that if he took this path… that’d he’d have to choose between his own world and this one. “Kid- I know what you’re going to say.”

“That if I become the dragon warrior my main focus will be protecting this valley… that I’ll have to choose between my world or this… but maybe it doesn’t have to be that way. If I find a way maybe I can travel between these two worlds. “You said it yourself. I can be a bridge between our two worlds.”

Po smiled. “You’re right… and a bridge has two sides. Don’t worry we’ll find a way to make that work… for now though… I know. I think I’m ready.” Po became serious. “Once we start there’s no going back.”

“I know. I’m ready.”

“Great I can’t wait to get started.” Po said patting him on the back. Later that night quasi thought about his decision. Was he making the right choice? what if he never got to go home!

“No Po promised.” Quasi sighed. His training would be starting tomorrow. He was worried he’d make a fool out of himself. “You won’t.” A voice said said in the back of his mind… It sounded like Po.

“I hope you’re right.” He said as he closed his eyes. As he drifted off to sleep he thought of the next morning and what challenges it would bring. Little did he realize that a shadow figure stood on a nearby rooftop watching the Jade palace… a shadow with glowing eyes. The creatures eyes turned red as it disappeared from the rooftop like a dark mist leaving nothing but an eerie chill in the air.

Chapter Text

The next day quasi woke up ready to start his first day of training. He was a little nervous this was all new to him after all. He noticed a bowl of food as well as some brand new clothes sitting on the floor next to him. The shirt was dark green with gold trim and the pants were a dark brown. He tried them on and they fit perfectly.

He wondered who had made them? It was either Po or Shifu and he didn’t think either of them could sew. He especially liked the shirt. He could never wear long sleeves back home because they wouldn’t fit him but the sleeves on the shirt were wide and flowy. Quasi finished his breakfast and crept down the hall and outside into the palace courtyard.

There he found both Po and Shifu waiting for him. “You ready?” Po asked his student. “I am… master.” Quasi said bowing. Po grinned. “Then let’s get training!”

Quasi spent most of his day learning different techniques as well as learning different kung fu moves. However his least favorite part was the obstacle course it was insanely difficult thankfully they skipped the fire floor or he would’ve quit immediately. However this intense training went on for the next few days… and Po wasn’t the only one training him. Whenever Po was busy with his duties as the spiritual leader of the Vallly it was always Shifu who trained him. He unlike Po was a lot more intense when it came to training him.

However that day he was almost ready to give up and throw in the towel… but Shifu wasn’t having it. “Come on! Get up!”

“I can’t… I-I need to rest.” Shifu sighed his anger subsiding. When Po first asked him to help with the boys training he’d been eager to help. He’d been hoping training him wouldn’t be like when he trained Po… but he was wrong. The boy had never fought a day in his life.

Pushing him like this would only set them back in his training. He was young and skittish. It would take a firm but gentle hand in guiding the boy towards his destiny as the next Dragon Warrior. Shifu smiled. “Alright but just for a bit.”

Quasi sighed with relief chugging from his canteen of water. He sighed setting it down. “I… I don’t think this is working.” Shifu frowned. “I appreciate you and Po training me I really do but let’s face it… I’ll never be a warrior.” Shifu sighed.

He’d expected the boy would have doubts which was why he was here. “You will.” Quasi frowned. “How can you be so sure?” Shifu smiled.

“You know you remind me of Po when he first became the dragon warrior. He wasn’t the greatest at Kung Fu and he was constantly trying to impress me despite the fact I was actively trying to get rid of him.” Quasi looked surprised. “Why?”

“Because I refused to believe someone like Po; an overweight panda of all things to become the dragon warrior… but I was wrong. He proved me wrong now it’s time for you to prove me right.” Quasi frowned. “Huh?”

“I believe in you boy. Your strong. Fast. Smart and a quick learner. If anyone can do this it’s you.”

Quasi looked shocked. “I… I always thought you hated me.” Shifu looked surprised. “Hated you no… cautious at first maybe after all in the past our two worlds have never gotten along… but never hated. I know this a lot… but you might be our one chance at peace between our two worlds.”

Quasi couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Shifu believed in his potential. Had he been the one to suggest to Po that he should train him? Quasimodo stood up bowing respectfully. “Thank you.”

“I think that’s enough training for today.” Shifu said noticing the sky outside was getting dark. Why don’t you go back to your room and rest I have a big surprise waiting you in the morning.” Quasi wasn’t sure what he meant but decided to take his advice and get some rest.

He was walking back to the palace when movement caught his eye. He looked up at the rooftop but saw nothing. Quasi shook his head. “All this training is making me paranoid. I’m constantly looking for someone to attack. I need to get some sleep.”

A shadowy figure reappeared on the rooftop staring down at him with glowing red eyes.

—————————————————

“This is a terrible surprise!”

Quasi had been nervous but excited for Po and Shifu’s surprise however it turned out to be more training… but they weren’t going to training him.

“Today you’ll be learning how to fight against an opponent.” Shifu said. Quasi looked between the two of them. “Oh not us.” Po said. “We called in some backup.”

“W-what kind of backu- the door burst open cutting him off. A group of animals entered the training hall. There was a snake, a long necked skinny bird wearing a hat, a monkey, a tiny green praying mantis and… a tiger. “Sorry we’re late Po.” The female tiger said giving Po a hug. “I can’t believe you got another student.” The monkey said.

“Yeah didn’t the last one- Mantis! The snake hissed smacking the mantis on the head with her tail. “Oww what?!” The snake motioned to him and the mantis shut up.

“So this is your student?” The tiger said staring down at. Quasi gulped. Her gaze made him feel small. “Yep guys meet Quasimodo; Quasi for short. Kid these are my friends Viper, Crane, monkey, Mantis and Tigress. They’re the- the Furious Five.” Quasi said staring at them in awe.

“Yep. Hey how did you know?”

“You talk about them all the time- master Po, master Shifu can I talk to you for a moment.” Quasi as they went outside. “When you said surprise this wasn’t what I was expecting.” Shifu frowned. “I don’t know what you were expecting.”

“Not to fight legendary kung Fu Masters that’s for sure!” He whispered. “I don’t know if I can do this. What if I’m not ready?” Po placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

“You’re ready. Now let’s show them what you can do.” The five eyed him warily. “What the heck even is he?” Mantis whispered to Viper who shook her head.

“He’s a human.” Po said overhearing his friends confusion. They all gasped. “A human?” Viper said shocked. “But they’re supposed to be a myth said monkey.”

Tigress looked down at him. Her gold eyes burrowing into his soul. “He’s very… young. Can he even fight?” Tigress asked. “Why don’t you stick around and find out.” Po said.

Tigress sighed. “He doesn’t look like much… but we’ll see what hes capable of. Quasi spent the rest of the day fighting against the furious five however he got nervous and failed each fight. His next one would be against tigress. However thankfully he didn’t have to worry about that till tomorrow thankfully.

However he wasn’t able to sleep still upset at loosing. He’d gotten it into his head that he’d lose and he did. He decided to go for a walk however as he was walking down the hallway he ran into Viper and Mantis. They both screamed startled on to recognize each other.

“Phew it’s just that kid.” Mantis said trying to calm down his racing heart. “What are you doing up so late?” Viper asked him. “I-I couldn’t sleep.”

“Still bummed out about losing?” Mantis asked. The boy nodded. “Look none of us are perfect I mean look at me? I used to be doctor… although a very inexperienced on. Heck Viper hear used to a ribbon dancer and Monkey and crane used to be a comedian and a janitor… and Po… Po was just a guy running a noodle shop with his dad.”

“Honestly when Po first joined We all thought he was going to fail… especially Tigress. She did not like Po… but she came around eventually… well after Po fought a crazy dangerous escaped convict. But that’s a story for another time.”

“How did… How did Tigress get the way she is?”

“You mean her attitude or her fighting style?” Quasi frowned unsure of what to say. “Relax kid I’m messing with you… to be honest tigress has always been this intense I can’t blame you for being nervous to fight her.”

“W-who me? I-I-I’m not nervous. Why would I be n-nervous.”

“Your stuttering… from what I can tell you only do that when you’re nervous… or when you’re lying.”

“Alright fine! I’m nervous! But how does anyone expect me to fight against…her?”

“You fought us.” Mantis smiled. “Yeah and I lost… spectacularly. Maybe I wasn’t ready to fight a bunch of masters. I barely know what I’m doing half the time.”

“The only reason you lost is because you told yourself you would lose.” Viper said. “You lost because you didn’t believe in yourself and that caused you to fail each time.” Quasi sighed. “Still I barely beat a tiny bug.”

He said pointing at mantis. “How am I going to supposed to beat a tiger?!” Mantis looked slightly offended by the tiny bug comment but let it slide.

“You’ll figure it out Viper said.”

“H-how’d Tigress get so good at fighting anyways? Just curious.”

“Tigress has always been the best, it’s why she’s our leader. Shifu took her in when she was little and trained her. She got so tough from hitting the old ironwood trees outside the palace- waiting where’d he go?”

“Thanks for the help.” quasi shouted as he raced around the corner. Little did they realize tigress had been listening to the whole conversation. From the other side of her divider.

—————————————————

Quasi hit the tree as hard as he could. He winced in pain but that didn’t stop him as he continued hitting the tree. If this was what it would take for him to beat Tigress and prove he belonged he’d do it! He hit the tree over again ignoring the pain especially when his fist started to bleed. He was about to hit the tree again when a paw caught his hand.

He froze as he looked up into gold eyes. “What do you think you’re doing?” Tigress asked rather calmly. She inspected his bloody fist and he pulled it away. “Training.” Quasi said as he turned to hit the tree again.

Tigress caught his arm flipping him onto his back. “Ow why did you- because it looks to me like you’re trying to hurt yourself on purpose.”

“Quasi stood up dusting himself of as he glared at her. “So what if I am? I might be able to beat you tomorrow.” Tigress sighed. “Is that what this is about?”

“Do you want to know what happened when I hit those trees? I stopped feeling things. Pain… emotions.” She sighed Quasi looked surprised. “Wait you can’t… feel anything?”

Tigress shook her head. She smiled. “Hit me.” Quasi’s eyes widened. “W-what?”

“Hit me!” She said holding up her hands. Quasi reluctantly obeyed. He winced pulling his hand away it had felt the same as punching the trees. “Y-you didn’t feel any of that?” He asked.

“Nope.” Quasi sighed. I’m sorry I made you come all the way out here in the middle of the night. I’m just… I’ve never fought anyone before.” Tigress smiled. “Then perhaps we should practice.” Quasi looked surprised.

“You mean…. You’ll help me?” Tigress shrugged. “Sure why not it will make you more of a challenge to fight.”

Quasi spent the rest of the night training with Tigress. The next morning he was ready. He was a little tired from training all night but he was confident he could do it. “Begin!” Shifu shouted as quasi fought against Both of them had been given a training staff to fight as their staffs clashed. However when it seemed like Quas would lose he got the upper hand sweeping the staff under tigress’s legs knocking her off her feet.

Everyone looked shocked. Quasi pointed the staff at the shocked tigress’s throat. She chuckled. “Not bad. Knew you could do it.”Quasi helped her up. “T-thanks to you.”

“I have a feeling you’ll make a pretty good dragon warrior.” Quasi smiled confidently. “Alright yeah! My boy won! Let’s celebrate noodles on me tonight!” Everyone cheered.

Quasi sighed. Watching everyone head back to the palace. This was going to be harder than he thought… and there’d be bigger threats out there than tigress. What would he do if someone attacked this palace or even this Valley? Would he really stand a chance?

“- You’ll make a pretty good dragon warrior.” Quasi smiled. Tigress had seen his potential as did all the others. He had nothing to worry about. Besides he wouldn’t have to worry about any serious threat for a while. Little did he realize there was a serious threat.

A shadow had been following since he’d first arrived in China and since he’d arrived in the valley. It was the shadow of an enemy long since forgotten but not entirely. The shadow watched him sleep as a soft and silky voice emanated from the shadow. “Sleep little Warrior. Sleep we will meet soon… when you free me.” The creature laughed as it slipped out of the room and into the night.

Chapter Text

Quasi loved learning kung fu he loved his sort of new life he missed his friends but this felt right. It felt like it was what he’d been born to do. He was tired of the old him he wanted to prove that Po was right… that he’d made the right choice… that he could be the dragon warrior… and maybe Shifu was right he could bridge their two worlds! So he trained. He trained until his hands bled and body ached.

He trained because for the first time in forever he believed in himself… and yet for the last month he’d felt as though he was being watched. He would have nightmares; hear whispers of someone or something that wasn’t there. However everything came to a head that night as everything took a turn for the worse. “Quasimodo. Quasimodo.”

Quasi tossed and turned shivering in his sleep. He felt something brush his face. Quasi leapt up ready for a fight but no one was there. “Quasimodo.” A feint voice whispered.

Quasi saw a shadow pass by his door. “H-hello?” Quasi peered out of his door but the hallway was deserted. “W-who’s there?”

“Follow me.” A voice whispered. It sounded like… a little girl. Quasi grabbed his cloak as he ran out into the courtyard. “Hello… w-where are you?”

“Over here… quickly!” Quasimodo followed the girls voice to a set of stairs leading down to a hidden cave. “H-hello? W-where did you go?”

“In here, hurry!” Hesitant but brave quasi climbed down the stairs. The cave tunnels seemed to go on and on however the voice guided him. The cave finally opened up into a large cavern. Carved into the cave wall was a large round black stone door inscribed with strange red symbols a black dragon statue guarded the top of the door.

“Hello? W-where did you go?” Suddenly he heard the little girl’s voice… coming from the stone door behind him. “W-who…who are you?”

“Please let me out the dragon warrior trapped me in here. I’ve been here for so long.” Quasi couldn’t believe what she was saying. “N-no… no Po wouldn’t do that. He wouldn’t… he wouldn’t do that! You’re lying!”

“Please help me! You have to help.” Quasi wasn’t willing to believe Po would trap a little girl. Something wasn’t right.

“How?”

“The doors are old. It requires a single drop of blood to open it. Please hurry before it’s too late.” Quasi hesitated but he felt sorry for the little girl. “I- I’ll be right back!” Quasi returned from the palace a minute later with a knife and his training staff for protection.

Quasi cut his palm and reached for the door. “Yes do it! Do it!” The voice said sounding less like a little girl. “Kid!”

Quasi looked up to see his master and teacher staring at him in horror. “P- po… what… he felt something shove him from behind as his touched the door. A gold light exploded outward as the door opened shadows spilling from the door. “Oh you poor boy. You were so easy to trick.”

A pair of glowing teal eyes appeared from the shadows. “Kill him.” The voice said no longer the voice of a sweet little girl but of an older woman. Creatures with glowing teal eyes materialized from the shadows. The first was a leopard, then a white peacock and the last was some sort of a bull.

It didn’t take a genius to figure out who they were. He’d heard the stories of his masters former enemies. They were Tai Lung, Master Shen, and Kai. The most fearsome villains imaginable. He fought them off one by one striking them with his staff.

However Tia lung caught him off guard by swiping him off his feet. Quasi flinched closing his eyes as he blocked his strike with his staff. He saw an image of Tai Lung standing in front of him. “What? Who are you?”

However the image faded just as quickly as Tai lung punched him in the face. Po stepped in attacking the gate as an aqua colored dragon emerged from the gate eyes turning red. Po fought her but ended up caught in her claws. “Master!” Quasi shouted as he ran at her.

“Tai Lung stop him!” Tai Lung roared lunging at him claws meeting with the staff. But it didn’t break. It… glowed as the claws made impact with the staff. “Impossible… it can’t be.” With the demon dragon distracted Po was able to seal the gate shut.

“No!” She released Po. She glared at the boy and his glowing staff. “Impressive boy… very impressive. We will meet again.” The shadow beast laughed dissolving into a shadow taking the former villains with her as she flew past them out of the cave.

Quasi shook terrified and drained as he collapsed blacking out.