Chapter 12 Master Shifu Part II (1/2)

Master Shifu waited, wondering what worth he could possibly have for the power couple in front.

”I have found a protege, who will take over MIB in the future,” said Kyle, ”And I want you to train him. If he is worthy, then make him the successor of your art.”

Master Shifu shook at that, and felt it wasn't too bad. The martial arts he had taught wasn't so unique and he was about to nod when he then heard the next words that sent chills down his bone.

”A true successor.”

At that, Master Shifu couldn't sit still anymore. He stood up, pointed a finger at the screen and he gasped out loud, ”TRUE SUCCESSOR?!!” How did this young man know about that? About the Family Art that was only passed down from Father to Son? Thoughts of his own son flashed through his mind.

His beloved son, his flesh-and-blood, was supposed to inherit it all. He had already begun passing down the art, though it wasn't complete yet. His son, cut down in the prime of his life, could not continue on. It was unfair! And this young man wanted to steal that legacy away from his son?!

”You think this is a game? Do you think the Art is something that can be given away so easily? That it is so easily bought?!” he snarled.

Kyle let Master Shifu go on his tirade. He had expected this reaction. It was only natural. He simply let Master Shifu go on and on, letting out the anger and dissatisfaction that he had been piling up inside.

After noticing Master Shifu calm down slightly, Kyle then responded before Master Shifu got his second wind. ”No. Your Family Art is invaluable and undeniably precious,” Kyle began, ”And it would be a shame for it to die with you. You have no more descendants, and that was through the despicable acts of those whom you had placed your complete trust and loyalty to.”

Master Shifu's breath began ragged, his eyes that were once listless seemed to spark lightning in it as he glared at the computer screen. Kyle was unfazed and continued, knowing that the anger wasn't directed at him. Well, not fully anyway.

”Your legacy can continue. Your Family will not die, it can continue. Your enemies wanted to wipe you out, but with this, you won't be.”

”Think about it. Not only will you be able to get rid of the traitors, their descendants will continue to be monitored by the one who receives your legacy. You need a successor. It's not feasible nor logical for you to have another son, but I can provide you with one,” Kyle persuaded, ”If he is worthy, you can adopt him through the family rites. He can enter your clan, and effectively be your son. Wouldn't that suit your purpose?”

”And if he isn't worthy?” asked Master Shifu.

”Then so be it,” Kyle replied, leaning back on the chair. ”Whether he succeeds or not, I will still uphold my promise and help you get your revenge.”

Kyle waited, as Master Shifu thought about it. His face changed from the earlier anger, to contemplation, to hope then uncertainty. Finally, he sat down and frowned as he asked, ”I don't have to choose him if I don't want to, but you'll still help me? I can set the test as according to my Family's Standards?”

”Yes,” replied Kyle.

”Why should I believe you?” Master Shifu asked.

He was skeptical. After all, he didn't know this ”J”. Even if he didn't impart the secret skills, the knowledge and effort that is expanded is not simple. And if he DID decide to do so, who is to say that this ”J” wouldn't stab him in the back either?

”Oreo,” was all Kyle said.

Puzzled, Master Shifu looked up at the man in front of him. He had a file in his hands, and he silently handed it over. Master Shifu took it, flipped it open and his eyes went wide.

”For free,” said Kyle, ”As a sign of good faith. Even if you don't agree to this transaction, the deed is already done.”

Tears formed within Master Shifu's eyes before it trickled down his cheeks.

Master Shifu didn't say anything as he placed down the file, opened. On it, was a single page. It had the picture and information of one of the man responsible for his son's death. Big, red letters of ”deceased”was chopped on it, along with several pictures of the said person's ”accident”.