FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Disclaimer : I do not own in any shape or form of any "Warriors of Virtue" franchise. I will not be profiting from this story in any way. However, every character not mentioned in either the movies or the books (yes there are books) are mine.

I do not have any rights to the music that is used.

I do not have the rights to the movie I borrowed from.

A/N: I do apologize for the grammar and spelling. Usually, after reading it several times I miss items and end up editing later. If you want to help please let me know where I might have missed something to help further our relationship together on this journey. If not then just enjoy the imagination.

Chapter 4

Knowing "You"

Inuit poem by Knud Rasmussen:

'In the very earliest time,

When both people and animals lived on earth,

A person could become an animal if he

wanted to,

And an animal could become a human

being...

All spoke the same language.'

* - * - *

Today was a free day for everyone. No training today. Just getting to know the village and its areas. That's why'd she was not in a rush to get up this morning. She felt so relaxed. It's like the feeling of Saturday morning when the work days just got off and you are just starting the weekend. Sarah looked next to her side and had totally forgotten about the rest of the items that she had with her, but there was no reason to use her laptop if there weren't any classes to prep for, for awhile at least. But, she wonders how long did she need to be here before she was sent back? Would time stop like nothing happened, or would things have passed so far in time that everyone she knew was too old to remember her existence, like fairy rings? She worried over the topic just a little bit but knew there wasn't much she could do, but only to find her way back home somehow. Everything else she will need to find out later. First things first. However, she did need to recharge her iPod because she was using it so much lately. She wondered if Yee already drained his. Solar Powered chargers are a wonderful thing in times of need like this. When a power outlet is needed, and there are not any of them around, technology people can suffer. Lucky for her she is a smart technical packer.

(Sarah's iPod: Thoman Bergersen - Empire of Angels (Sun))

As the warming sun hits her face from a window, her mind saw the Hobbits Shires from Lord of the Rings with its grassy hills scene with everyone all so busy. Her mind imagined a camera panning all over the places just trying to get a look at the amount that went into the village. It was quite beautiful. Today she was going to get to know the village and it's villagers.

The moment she stepped out everything just burst to live. It was like watching Tim Allen's "Santa Clause" to the elves shop. The music in her head cued up with the activity that was going on. The world was wonderfully at peace, and today it was very welcoming, and she was going to enjoy all of it. She needed to find one of the Roo's to see if she can help somewhere without being rude.

It so happens the moment she started running down the stairs Yun steps out in front of her. She almost runs right into him. His arms were on his hips, but he didn't seem mad but amused looking down at her.

"And where do you think you are going in such a hurry?"

"Actually, I was going to look for one of you."

"Oh?"

"I wanted to ask if there was anything in the village I can help with today?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Today maybe be a relaxing day, but that doesn't mean I should be lazy. I would like to help with something! Keep myself busy, you know."

"Well, I think we can try to find you something to do, but in the meantime I can show you around, so next time you need to wonder around you will have an idea where you might be."

"How quaint. Always thinking about others."

"That is my virtue after all."

He said with a giant smile. She just smiled back shaking her head like some bad joke, but still had to laugh at it and rolls her eyes at him.

(Sarah's iPod: The Ming Flute Ensemble - The Flower of Hsin-Jang)

Yun showed a way down a wooden bridge and he began pointing out the life of Tao.

"To Create and sustain a healing environment here, which is marked by our strong leadership, unparalleled compassion, matchless integrity, and performance excellence which serve to distinguish Master Chung's Life Spring in Tao as the preferred place for rehabilitative services in this region."

"Wow, that is quite a responsibility."

"It is and shouldn't be taken lightly."

"Here in Tao, I am sure you noticed we are not all human here like your world or of the same kinds."

"No, didn't notice. But, I'm guessing the moment I was shocked first time seeing you didn't give you a clue."

Yun looked at her with an eyebrow raised.

"Hmm, sarcasm."

She smiled back.

"I'm very observant. The previous newcomer was also very...shocked."

"Who did he see first?"

Yun stayed silent for awhile.

"Oh my god, he saw you first as well. That's too funny."

"It's not that funny."

"Yun, it's funny!"

"Back on topic. Most of these villagers are made up of Warmbloods like myself. We do not know our origins, but there are all kinds of species here in Tao."

"When you say species you mean..."

"Almost any "animal" from your world their just might have a Warmblood here representing them."

Sarah seemed very fascinated by this topic. She was tempted to see actually how many different kinds of Warmbloods there really were here. But, that could take some time and she didn't know how long she had.

Sarah and Yun walked slowly over pathways and bridges that connected with tall trees. Everything was hand made and hand carved. It was all such beautiful workmanship. They seemed to be traveling in a certain direction. The water seemed to be getting cleared then the surrounding waterways. She could even see more creatures in the waters swimming around, without a care who was around them. There was occasionally a few swimmers near the bottom collecting items. Aquatic life was flourishing as they got closer to a unique center.

"Welcome to Master Chung's LifeSpring."

Yun introduced. It was marvelous. They passed through a giant red Torii archway down the bridge with lightning lamps. He explained the shimmers of glitter in the water was Zubrium. It contained Tao's life showing off its growth. It's what kept the waters clean, and the green forest around them growing too. Life Springs are all over Tao, and in different fashions, but all do the same thing, which is keeping life flowing. It reminded her of the brain like coral reefs full of life living within it. They stood there watching the colors glimmer in all its glory. The water was pretty deep and the coral was just reaching the top of the water wakes, so the LifeSpring was very big like an iceberg and only just a little peek showed. She looked up and noticed how much the housings for the villagers built were around the LifeSpring. Places reach pretty far up, but never over the Spring. Sounds from behind what brought her back to present attention. As she turned around she could have sworn she saw Yun turn away quickly looking like he was looking back at the spring. In the distance, she could see Tsun which she seemed to be very busy was offering much help to the villagers children. She was such a warming heart like a mother. Smiling to everyone, and not even bothered by the kids that keep running around her. Right next to her stood this slim figure, that looked like he was trying his best to help in any way, but he still looked a little silly. His black hair pulled back, and his clothes was a very simple robe.

"Next to Tsun over there is Renatus or Ren for short. He used to be Komodo who caused so much trouble in this land."

Sarah looked a little shocked and confused.

"You mean the terrors of this land was made by that person over there? But, he looks like he can hardly do anything for himself."

" Ah, but what happened to him was that he was "born again" by the elements of virtue. Ryan had to sacrifice something in order to restore order again. We owe him greatly."

"How do you know he won't do it again?"

"We don't, but we have been keeping an eye on him and it looks like all memories and corruptions have been destroyed. But, that does not mean we shouldn't take precautions. Everyone does deserve a second chance."

"Hmm, you guys are very kind."

"That is being virtuous."

"So what is Tsun doing over there anyway?"

"She is watching over the children as some of the adults work. Ones they reach of age they will help out too for the village. Everyone here has a duty and we try to keep everyone working together."

"This place sounds more like Utopia."

"Is this place back in your world?"

"Not physically. It's a fictional place where it was created by a book writer."

"Fictional place?"

"Yes, a place to good to be true. Almost like a place like this."

"But, this is not fictional. This is a real place here. I'm real."

"And, yet here I am still thinking I am dreaming."

Yun looked little disappointed and hurt. She is a stubborn girl, and quite possibly will not change her mind unless she realizes it herself. She wasn't watching Yun, so she did not get to see his expression. Tsun noticed them both looking her way and waved for them to come over.

"Alright, come on Dreamer."

He grabbed Sarah again gently and jumped over to the other side with Tsun. It was quicker instead of walking around so many bridges again. The moment Sarah was let go of, she scrambled out of his hands.

"You could have warned me before doing that again."

His heart was beating fast again. He just loves catching her off guard with these surprises.

"My apologies. I have seemed to have forgotten again my manners around you."

"It seems you enjoy surprising me like that."

He shrugs, "What can I say. You have an adorable reaction."

She narrowed her eyes at him, just trying to tell him nonverbally that something was not right about that. It wasn't displeasing, but it wasn't pleasing either. It was just the sensation from planting your feet on the ground to taking off in the air not in your control got the heart racing a little. Not someone like her is used to.

"Ah, Sarah. I would like you to meet Tao's younglings."

Some turned around to see who Tsun was referring to, but most went back to what they were doing. A few little girls ran up to Yun with such joy seeing him.

"Oh, Yun please save me! I'm in big trouble," said one of the little girls.

"Oh, how so?"

"The boys are being so mean," said the other next to her.

"They keep picking on us."

"Oh, that will not do. No one should pick on my girls."

The little girls just seemed to blush some more.

"I will protect you."

Just like that, he picks them up onto his shoulders and stomps over to the boys who seemed to be playing some kind of stick game. Sarah just had to smile at it all. It was cute. You would smile too if you watched the little scene play out as Yun tries to be a knight in shining armor at the same time a beast getting back at the boys. When she wasn't paying much attention she didn't notice a much smaller girl was tugging at her side. She looked down to see what caught her, to only see this sad-eyed little one looking up at her. She lowered herself to the child's height. She saw that the little girl acting so shy, and being just too darn cute.

"Is everything alright, little one?"

Then just out of nowhere she was given a giant huge. Cuteness overload. The little girl didn't seem to want to let go anytime soon too.

"Ooh!"

Was all that Sarah could cluster. The little girl didn't seem to want to talk, but hold on. Tsun looked over at Sarah and almost wanted to giggle loudly.

"That's Keitto. She is an orphan like many children today. Because of the war, some parents went missing, others were killed."

(Pronounced Key-toe)

"That's horrible."

"So the village here have been trying to do their best to look after all of the children like their own."

Sarah looks down again and this time really at her and thinking how hard this world was before she got here.

"Keitto, is that your name Keitto?"

The little girl shook her head in Sarah's arms.

"My name is Sarah. And you can hug me for as long as you want."

That seemed to have brightened her day. Her eyes got large and her smile widened. Keitto just hugged her harder, and snuggled right into Sarah, and she hugged right back. Some of the other girls around saw this and got a little jealous.

"That's not fair, why does she gets hugs?"

Some went over to Sarah and wanted hugs too. Some got to get hugs from the other side of her, but most had to take turns. One even tried giving a hug from behind Sarah. No matter what was going on it seemed the children accepted her right into the village. Yun looked like he was still having some fun with the few boys and girls that followed him. But, he still had a chance to glance over at Sarah to see how she was doing. With those kind eyes, she had he thought she fitted right in, and the innocence backing her up. Now he knows Tao did not make a mistake choosing her.

"We should show her our secret hiding place!" One of the little girls said.

"No, she is a grown up."

"But, she's nice."

" I like her."

"But, it won't be a secret anymore."

"Then we have to make her promise."

They all seemed to now be all on the same page and agreed to show Sarah their secret hiding place the children went to. They all got excited and just started pulling her way from the Roo's. Tsun and Yun watched as the children pulled her away, and didn't seem bothered by it. She was still in good hands. They smiled at one another knowing what each other was going to say.

The children were just pulling her along the village walkways in such a hurry. She was still holding on to Keitto, but another was pushing her from behind and another pulling Sarah with the other free hand.

"Whoa, where are we going."

"It's a secret."

"Duh, if we say it out loud then everyone will know."

"But, they do know where it is!" A little boy said running up to them.

They all stopped and turned towards him. The girl at the front leading everyone pushed her out of the way to get back to him.

"What do you mean they know? They aren't supposed to know."

The little boy seemed older than most of the children in the group, so it would make sense why he knew.

"Because I told them!"

"What?" She screamed.

"You know better than that. There are still dangers out there and the Roo's can't be everywhere."

"But, why did you tell them? It's suppose to be our secret place."

"If you get hurt I'm not helping you."

She seemed to understand now, "fine, but from now on they are not allowed unless invited."

"Fine."

They acted more like brother and sister in this situation. One with a grumpy face, the other calm and matured a little then the rest. She huffed turning back around and went back to the front.

"Come on."

(Sarah's iPod: Kelvin Mockingbird - A Call To Love)

They continued on with their little adventure. Running past everyone and giggling the whole time there. They got to one last hut, but instead of going passed it they went between it. It went through this little hallway that some vines were trying to take over a hidden space. Just before they got the ending brushes they turned again ducked into a small hole in the brushes that was half her size. One by one the children tried to show her how to get through. So, she got down on her knees and crawled on with still one girl in her arms and the other trying to ride her back. The moment she emerged, she noticed it was the most magical children's grounds she ever saw. Most of the trees surround the area made a perfect protection. But, the children won't know if the danger was approaching the area or vice versa. This world may seem perfect, but it still looks like it's recovering from the previous war. Meaning, there are still issues to fix before it's whole again. For now, these children were fine. Let them laugh and play in this beautiful secret place. The more she looked at it the more it was looking like a Brian Froud painting. At this point, she won't be surprised if faeries did pop out somewhere. The little one in her arms finally wanted to be let down and play with everyone in the area. For a while, Sarah just sat on the floor watching the children run around until she saw one of them act like a monster or beast and the other children ran away in multiple directions.

"What are you guys playing?"

For a moment, she imagined that the children were running from an FNAF character which would scare any child. Her imagination slowed time, the play screams became real ones, and play monster started to morph into a darker creature. Her mind then snapped out of it and they were back to playing around.

"We are practicing running from the Rat people."

"The What?" She chuckled a little, hoping it was a joke.

"The Rat People, duh." A different child answered.

"Why are you running away from Rat people? Are they not like the Warmbloods from this village?"

"No..." Some of the children went silent

"They are like something else."

Then they all started talking at the same time trying to explain to Sarah who they were.

"They look nasty..." "They have big teeth..." "And there is fur everywhere..." "They look scary..." "They have this nasty tails too..." "They had been a few people missing too..."

"But where did they come from then?"

"We don't know."

"But, you guys seem to know so much."

"Because one of us have seen it!"

"Oh?"

"Yeah near the village."

"Well, while I am here I won't let them hurt you guys."

All the children seemed to cheer and be excited for that. It helped lighten up the mood after a short depressor. Sarah did think, by how the children were acting, that it was a big deal. Why would different Warmbloods try to hurt other villagers?

After some time, the children heard in a distance that someone was calling them. She guesses they had enough of the children being out of the villagers sights but was given some time, at least, to themselves for a chance to have extra fun because they knew someone was with them instead of being alone. Children should enjoy their childhood for as long as they can before they start becoming an adult and helping the village as well.

The moment the last child left the area it got really quite. In that silence, she heard a waterfall nearby. She actively listened to which area it was coming from. Sensed it sounded closer by, so she was curious enough to explore not too far from the village. Slowly moving through some brushes the rushing waters got louder. The moment she emerged through some tall dark branches the sight was in awe. The waterfall wasn't big, but there was plenty of space to jump from a safe height into a safe pool. She got closer there were rocks big enough to walk on instead of sharp small ones. She needed this. But, she needed to make sure she didn't go for too long or the Roo's might get worried. It's better to be responsible than freak people out over nothing. So, she turned around, going back through the little tunnel and tried to find the closest Roo to inform them where she was and not to worry. She happened to find Yee dropping off some heavy baskets. She just yelled down to him with a quick update, and he replied with a nod that it was received.

"If anyone needs anything I'm over here, thanks, Yee."

Quickly going back to the spot she found, she carefully gets near the waterfall and stands on a big rock. She took off her shoes and placed them on the side. A few times she almost slipped so she needed to be really careful or she will end up wet and needing to explain what she was trying to do.

* - * - *

Yee was just finishing uploading the last sets of baskets when Yun came up to him patting on the shoulder.

"Have you see Sarah in this area?"

Yee signed that she just was here not to long ago, but wanted to tell that she when back to the children's spot.

"Thank you, Yee."

Yee nodded back before taking off to go get something to eat. Yun went to the area that Yee said she would be, but after jumping over the bushes he discovered no one was there. Where could she be, he wondered. He then tried to listen carefully with his tall ears. The smallest sound just past by his ears, but was still able to find which direction it was coming from. Yun was proud of his listening skills. It helped when in times of need. Just when he got to the sound he saw Sarah near the waterfall on a wide enough rock. Watching her from a distance he thought this was a rare moment to see who Sarah might really be. Most people drop their guards and only show their vulnerable spots, they're true inner self, so no worries. And yet, he was not being silent out of cautious, but more curiosity. Something about her keeps drawing him into her. He was memorized by the performance she was putting on. He kept in the dark shadows watching her move like Tai Chi arts, and with mixed another movement, he did not recognize. What he did notice was that she had her ear items in. Yee showed him the interesting box Sarah gave him and it played different kind of music that came out of the strings at the ends. It was amazing how loud it was, but no one else can hear it unless it was directly to your ears. He wondered what music she had playing for this kind of meditation concentration. He did not want to disturb her for a while, so all he did was watch.

(A/N: Stalker..... >_>)

(Sarah's iPod: Purity Ring - Sea Castle)

Sarah felt so relaxed in this area. No one around, so she felt comfortable practicing her personal mix of Tai Chi Chuan, a little bit of ballet rhythm, and freestyling in other areas. When she did it her way she hit all the points she wants to get that body workout. Awareness, patience, revival, and energy. This can also depend on the music she changes it too. Music can make someone change moods, feelings, and/or overall days thinking mentality. That's why she couldn't live without her music. Sometimes it's possible to listen to nature's music, but that takes a lot of active listening which not everyone can do or wants to do.

The cooling water flow at her back and the music in her ears made this spot favorable. Slowly moving to the sounds in her ears, and adding in the moves to the beats. Her arms and legs moved in the forms of Yin and Yang, mirroring each other but in opposite directions. Her body was relaxed, yet holding its strength. She moved with soft grace, yet had stiffened spots like stopping the motion with complete control. It was almost like cutting the water and air at once. As one song finished between her ears, another transited into the next, and she never knew someone was watching her.

* - * - *

Back in the settled village by the training grounds again Chi, Lai, Tsun, and Lee gathered together to discuss what they think about Sarah and what is happening in Tao. Most were sitting down, but Lai decided to stand.

"I think she is trying her best," Tsun spoke.

"But, why is she here?" Lai questioned.

"She seems to be heading down a path we do not know yet," Chi informed calmly drinking his tea.

"There seems to be some more activity in the forest. The children seem to still be away from it, but there is no telling how close they are getting." Tsun said.

"Is she causing it?" Lai grunted.

"Don't be irrational." Chi huffed.

"I am thinking logically."

"Well I agree with Chi, I think you have been going too far."

"I'm just looking at all possibilities."

"Obviously not hard enough," Chi stated.

"That's right, lately, you have been harder than usual. I know something else is on your mind, but you seem to be doing the opposite from your original mindset."

She stood up and walked over to Lai.

"It's not like you to be pointing the blame when you know she hasn't been here when this started."

He takes in a breath and deeply sighs.

"I heard word from my village they are near there."

"That far?"

"Soon we may need to check on our villages again."

"What could be causing this chaos?"

Yee finally signals in his two cents.

"Yee is right, these events are getting too out of hand, and it would seem Sarah is teaching us something that we may be needing to use soon. Let us continue these lessons and leave soon to our villages." Chi spoke with his wisdom.

"Agreed. Lai?"

For a while, he did not say anything. It would seem he was thinking about the odds of everything and sighed. He was about to take off without saying a word until Tsun hit him with her tail.

"For the safety of our people I hope we are choosing the right path."

Just as they were closing up their little meeting they heard a little scream in the distance. They all stood up looking in the direction it came from.

"Could it be?" Lai.

"Is it them?" Tsun.

"Let's Go." Chi.

They all took off jumping over the area it was coming from. Near the edge, they got closer to an area that was covered in bushes. They heard splashes just over the rigs. Just as they jumped down from the branches, they saw Yun pulling Sarah out from the waters.

"What happened?" Tsun said in a panic.

Yun and Sarah looked up to see the rest of the Roo's just landing by the waterfalls stream.

"Well...I...She..."

"He caught me off guard and I lost my balance."

As she finally got back on the rock she tried to explain what happened in her point of view.

"I was just practicing my Vriksasana, or known as Tree Pose for my balance. I had my music in my ears and wasn't expecting anyone to be out here. So, when Yun popped out of nowhere it just scared me and I lost my footing."

Sarah looked down to see that her earpiece and iPod didn't fall with her. Thank goodness, she thought to herself.

I must have let go of it when I did. Just a little dent, but the music will still play which is another bonus.

All the Roo's seemed to either sigh or looked disappointed.

"We thought something happened." Chi pointed out, jumping down but not standing any closer to the waters.

"We thought someone was being taken again," Tsun said.

"Again? So, the children told the truth." She whispered the last part to herself. She stood up dripping next to Yun.

"So what are these Rat things?"

"For the moment we do not know, but they are not of our kind." Tsun looked down disappointed they did not have any new information.

"Oh." Was all Sarah could say.

She didn't know how she could help the children or the Roo's either for this kind of situation. If these creatures were big and scary as the children said, she won't know how to protect anyone like the Roo's do.

"We can discuss more about this issue another time, what we would like to know is why were you over here Sarah?" Chi seemed curious.

"Well, I thought this was a nice place to practice on my own.You know, with fewer distractions."

"If that's all you are looking for I can show you some good spots," Chi smiled brightly.

"You should have told me that before." She grunted at him.

"Well, I didn't know you needed your own practice space."

"Point taken!" Annoying said.

"Come on Sarah let's get you out of here and dry again."

Yun extended his hand out to help Sarah out but thought twice of taking that hand. She has had enough of jumping around and will just want to walk over the rocks on her own two feet, thank you.

"Ah, thanks but no thanks, I think I can handle this on my own."

Just as soon as she said that she slipped backward on some water vegetation and losing her footing again. She was still wet so she no longer had any grip to keep her stable. Right before she fell back in, Yun was right there to grab her. She looks up in his arms, and all he did was raise an eyebrow, as best as he could, at her. She just looked away biting her lip. He leaned her upright again and gently took her hand, instead of just jumping over the rocks, he helped steady her, which surprised her, but in a good way. I guess he understood she didn't want to do that jumping like earlier today. Her heart skipped a beat as they walked across. He listened without her saying anything, that was very kind, and rare because it was better than what she had received in the past. Just as soon as they reached the edge, climbing her way up and grabbing her shoes on the way, Sarah noticed her clothes were not sticking to her body anymore. She looked down and saw she was completely dry like she never fell in. She looked back at Yun, which she knew Master of the water element, but did not imagine this much control, and saw he slightly smiled a little.

"You?"

He nodded.

"Thank you."

He nodded again.

"You know if I didn't meet you earlier I would have thought you were Yee."

You could hear Chi laughing again in the distance. Then a yelp was heard. She turned around and thought she saw Yun just lowering his left hand. He must have pushed some water at Chi's location and got him wet. They all acted so much like siblings at times. It was adorable.

"Come on Sar, we are not getting any younger!"

"You know, I think I liked you better when you were just questioning me, instead of openly acting like a child around me." She said as she was emerging from the bushes.

When she reached the top she saw him grinning side to side with his hands on his hips. It almost looked like some flames were just being distinguishing, and a little smoke was just visible. Sarah guessed he has his own way of drying off.

"Well, shall I show you a quick tour of some places now?"

"I don't know can you?"

Chi steps aside and gestures to follow.

"I guess you will have to see."

"Hmm..." She walks a little forward.

"That doesn't seem trusting enough."

"I'm hurt. Why would you not trust me?"

"Because you seem more like a jester than a warrior."

Thinking she was going to get an immediate response, she heard nothing instead. Stopping before she exited out of the place and turned around. Where did Chi go? In fact, where did the rest go? She thought they were all behind her, but it was nothing but silence.

"This isn't funny..."

Still no response from anywhere. She started slowly walking back, when something ran past the bushes on the other end.

"Chi?" Nothing..."Yun?" Still nothing...

Now she is really starting to get scared, and slowly starts to back up. Did they hear something in the distance to take a closer look at it and left her behind? Or did they leave her altogether? Why is there so much second guessing these Roo's? She didn't notice the dark shadow that was moving behind her. It's hard eyes looking down from its tall body. Arms stretched open wide just about to strike first when the slightest crunch was made from underneath its foot. Sarah heard that directly behind and her eyes opened wide. Just as she was turning around to see what it was, it reached down and...tickled her sides. She jumped from so much fear building up in her she didn't notice that Chi tricked her. It would seem the other Roo's were in on it too because you could hear some laughs in the tree branches. The forest hides them well in the soft greens and oranges.

"Ha ha, very funny you guys, and here I was going to see if you could have helped me with one of the Manuscripts pages."

That seemed to get his attention. His ears go straight up and then cool down trying to be all calm.

"Haha, Sarah I am sorry. I could not resist. You already seem like you are a part of the village as a family."

She huffed, "that doesn't mean you have to scare the shit out of me."

"I am truly sorry. If you need some new clothes I am sure Tsun can find..."

"No no that was an expression."

His ears went down. Sarah saw the look and knew what it meant.

"It means I was very scared, however when people do get scared enough they do soil themselves, on a rare occasion. But, in this case, I meant my heart was only racing fast"

"That would be funny."

His ears seem to go back up with a lighter voice.

"And, very embarrassing," he added with a caring touch. "Well then what would you like to do then? I will let you choose."

"Thank you, and as much as I would like to know these other places I think sitting down for a talk is what I need instead."

"Alright then, Let's go over to the Training deck to take a further look at what you are trying to decipher."

* - * - *

As Sarah and Chi sat at on the dock the book was open, but again nothing could be seen, but only what she says is there. She tries to tell Chi everything from that one page only because it was more filled with questions more than answers. It wasn't even a philosophical quote, but something deeper. Sarah leans against a post with one arm crossed holding the other as it dangles. Her face looked worried and deep in thought.

"Chi I don't know what to make of this. I am trying to explain the best I can what I see, but the words just keep turning like as if I was saying them and it changes."

"And you say there is also this fog over everything?"

"Yes, like the truth of the words are still being covered."

Chi gave it some thought. "Maybe it's not the words being covered."

"What do you mean?"

"Maybe the page reflects you..."

"What?"

"Tao is the way to something, and here in the Manuscript it's possible these words can be a reflection of your path or of the mind."

She crossed both arms now. "I might be stuck here, but I am not clouded."

"Not clouded, foggy. More like you can see where you want to go, but you can't see all the details."

She sits down and puts hands to her face as she leans over.

"So what this possibly means is I may have found a way home, but it's not clear how?"

"Perhaps, or it could mean something internal."

She sighs and grunts in frustration.

"Tao is so confusing. There are no straight answers here. But, why can I read it and no one else? You said Ryan could at one point."

"In due time, the answers will come. But, for now, I think it is time to eat."

"You are right. I shouldn't think too hard into it. It just frustrating sometimes when you try and try, but nothing makes sense anymore."

She got up from her spot and followed Chi down the creaking wood hallway. Bowls and herbs seemed to dangle everywhere. It made everything smell nice. They got to the same hut from the other day where everyone gathered and dinner seemed to be ready walking in. The other Roo's were already there as well and had saved Chi and Sarah seats.

"Here you are Sarah." Yun handed over a bowl of soup.

"Thank you. There isn't anything funny in it is there?"

"No no. I promise."

She watched Yun with narrowed eyes. Nothing seemed anything fishy coming from his eyes, so she decides to try a bite. She grabbed the wooden spoon to its side and took the first gentle and cautious bite. To her surprise, the taste was full of flavor, and nothing seemed weird about it.

"Is it good?" He asked.

She looked up and saw all the Roo's watching.

"I'm so sorry. Do you say grace before eating?"

"Haha no it's alright, but I am glad it tastes good," Tsun said with such a gentle heart.

After a while, more people from the village started pouring in to eat, drink, and be merry. She enjoyed listened to more of their stories of the Roo's growing up together. They had some tough times growing up and dealing with their inner selves. The most effect was having Master Chung in their lives. If wasn't for him most things in this world would be lost. They all treasured his time here and will never forget the many hearts he touched.

"Ok ok, enough with the sappy stories. Sarah, do you have anything you would like to share? You have been quiet and enjoying our company this whole time, but we don't want you feeling left out." Chi interrupted.

She puts up a stop hand like signal.

"Oh no, I am fine. I am very much enjoying this."

"Oh come on, you must have something to add in."

"Ok Fine." She thought about it for a while. "Do you guys know what cat logic is?"

They all seem a little perplexed.

Lai, "Is it not the same as our logic?"

"Very."

"Then please do explain this...cat...logic."

"Well...."

By the end of her story, she had the whole table in laughing tears. The only one who didn't get it was Lai. He tried to answer, but paused to think about it, tried to answer again, but could not understand.

But finally, "How? That does not make any sense."

Sarah couldn't stop laughing herself.

"Because that's Cat Logic. They will love you, but they do all opposite."

"If this is so, I do not like cats from your world."

"But, they repeat things. They have an order to their madness." She laughed.

Lai tried to say something else, but the words got stuck again, and everyone burst out laughing more. Another good night seems to have come and gone. Today was a really fun day, and yet it doesn't seem like it will slow down anytime soon either. The book is being more mysterious, and she still doesn't know why or how to get back home. She needs more information to understand it all, and maybe, just maybe, they will be able to read it too.

* - * - *

(Side Story)

Just as Sarah was getting out of the hut to stretch her legs, after sitting and laughing for so long, she saw this small creature sitting on the bridge from the door away from the light. From one angle it looked like a cat. A tail was wagging behind and there were pointed ears. But, she could not be certain, so she crept closer quietly. She was right, it was a dwarfish cat, just sitting on the bridge dangling its feet of the edge. He looked very serious in thought and seemed to have kept to himself. But, that wasn't stopping her urge to wanting to pet him or her. The closer she got the more it was killer her to pick it up and pet it. The feeling was so strong she just couldn't contain herself. She doesn't right away lunges for the cat, but first admires it's cuteness and tries to do the best she could to ask if she could hug it.

The cat seemed to have this wave of shivers up and down its spine. She must have disturbed it in thought and it never knew she was there. It slowly turns it's head and stares at her. The cat just burst out screaming at her to just ask what is on her mind. Nope, it wasn't happy and it seemed to be a he. She looks a little sadden, and she asks again. However, he heard her ask this time, and looked like he scrunched up his nose and screamed out "No" and turned back around to the bridge's edge. But, Sarah just didn't seem to bother by its little behavior. She walked a little closer, but this time, her mind was on the concern that maybe he was hurt or bothered by something that was said to him.

"Look I didn't mean to hurt your feelings if I did."

She sat down next to him. He continued to stare outward into the dark.

"I am sorry for whatever is bothering you."

He still did not say a word, and the more she focused her eyes on him the more she wanted to really pet him gently. Maybe that will help him feel better. So she raised her hand and began softly using her nails on his soft fur around the back of his ears. At first, that made him jump not expecting that, but then afterward he just gave in. His body became relaxed and enjoying the scratching rubs. The moment didn't need any more talking because he was completely into it.

Moments later...

Yun goes looking for Sarah to find her petting the cat's back on the bridge. Yun stops in shock then tilts his head a little with a soft smile, and then he had to clear his throat. That woke the cat up fast. He was just loving the scratches, pets, and is just melting in happiness that he forgot about the other people who might see him. The cat seemed to know who that was without turning its head, but Sarah looked and just as she was about to ask Yun what was going on, the takes off running from embarrassment.

"What? What just happened? Are you not on good terms with this cat?"

Yun smirks a little bit."Not exactly."

"But, it's alright. I was just surprised he was warming up to you." He laughs a little.

"Why? How so?"

"Well, lately he hasn't warmed up to anyone. It's nice to see he isn't all lost."

"Why does he seem too grumpy?"

"Well...he...ah, use to be human like you."

Sarah's eyes grew large.

"His name is Mudlap. During the war he was human, but after the war, he just seemed to have disappeared. Later sometime he came back looking like that."

"I'm so sorry. And I just had this urge to pet him, and it was to great."

"It's alright. But, we don't know how to get him back to normal. He must have slept in an enchanted cave."

"Enchanted Cave? Like with Faeries and magic?"

"Well, we are not quite sure what the caves are, but they do seem to have effects on anyone near it."

"Hmm, still sorry it happened to him. Now poor Grumpy Cat, I mean Mudlap, is living the life he doesn't know."

"Maybe the manuscript has something to help."

"Maybe..."

"Alright, let's start getting you to bed. I am sure you are tired as much as we all are."

Yun gentle pushes Sarah from behind has she just started a yawn.

* - * - *

Someone knocked on her door frame loudly making Sarah's eyes pop right open and still looking very tired.

"Raise and shine sunflower. It's time for a new day Haha!"

It was Chi and he seemed very chipper today. Why was Chi coming to wake her up? She thought this was another off day. I guess not. She grunted annoyingly at the wake-up call. She had never been a morning person for work, and she still isn't, and to be woken up made it worse. Whatever the reason she was still going to wake up at her own pace.

---

Reference Notes:

• Hobbit/Fellowship of the Ring/Lord of the Rings Tri : Movie or Book
• Santa Clause - Tim Allen
• Torii Arch
• Renatus meaning "born again"
• Brian Froud
• FNAF (Five Night's at Freddy's)
• Yin and Yang
• Vriksasana
• Grumpy Cat

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A/N: Oh man this chapter is finally finished. For some reason, it was just going on and on and I was trying to find and end. Honest. But, needed to find that right spot. I do want to take this time to thank a good person who cheered me up, and made me continue faster with this chapter and will make me want to finish everything. Arianna Nevaz Roo <3 Yet, I do not know where everything will end. I thought of an ending, but it keeps changing the more I write. Well, I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter and hope the next several chapters gets better for you. Let me know what you think, I love the comments either way.