Saturday 9 January 1996 Morning.
Zaboru wasn't working this morning as he usually did. Instead, he chose to start his day with a workout, running a considerable distance from his office. After cooling down, he headed to one of his favorite places — a modest gyoza restaurant called Ryou Gyozan. Despite its humble appearance, the food there was exceptional, and Zaboru loved it dearly.
It was still early, and the restaurant hadn't opened to the public yet. But Zaboru had a special arrangement with the owner, who allowed him to come in every Saturday morning before opening hours. The quiet atmosphere and the delicious gyoza made it something he looked forward to each week.
"Boss! Yaki and Mushi Gyoza — ten servings! And a cold orange juice too!" Zaboru called out with enthusiasm as he stepped into the restaurant. He grinned with anticipation and quickly took his usual seat by the window. The owner, already behind the counter preparing the order, smiled warmly. Zaboru was no stranger here — in fact, he was one of the restaurant's most cherished regulars.
Though the owner knew exactly who Zaboru was — a wealthy and influential figure in the business world — he never treated him with formality. There was a mutual respect between them built over months of quiet Saturday mornings. Zaboru didn't act like a big shot, and in return, he was treated like family.
What made it even more remarkable was how generous Zaboru always was. He often paid far more than the meal cost, insisting the extra be used however the owner saw fit — whether for better ingredients, staff bonuses, or even just for gratitude. In appreciation, the owner had once asked for a photo together. That framed picture now hung proudly near the register, a silent tribute to their friendship.
Despite its modest size, Ryou Gyozan had become a small legend in the neighborhood — not just for the food, but also for the whispers of high-profile guests who came quietly through its doors. And Zaboru's frequent visits only boosted its charm.
Soon, the sizzling plates of Yaki and Mushi Gyoza were brought to the table, the aroma filling the room with a savory warmth that made Zaboru's mouth water. Without hesitation, he dug in, savoring each bite with visible satisfaction. The flavors were exactly as he remembered — perfectly crisped on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside.
Thanks to his Enlightenment ability, which enhanced all of his bodily functions to an extraordinary degree, Zaboru required much more food than the average person. His body burned through calories at an accelerated rate, making his appetite nearly insatiable. But that only made meals like this even more enjoyable. Each serving wasn't just nourishment — it was fuel for a body operating far beyond normal human limits.
Suddenly, the door of the restaurant creaked open, and a confident voice called out, "I heard this place has the best dumplings in town?"
Zaboru looked up mid-bite, eyebrows raised. He turned toward the voice — and his eyes widened in disbelief.
"No way… Bruce Lee?" he thought, stunned.
Even though Zaboru knew Bruce Lee was still alive in this world — a strange twist he had come to accept — it didn't stop the shock of seeing him in person. And not just anywhere, but here, in his favorite little gyoza joint, on an ordinary Saturday morning.
Zaboru blinked in surprise and said, "Wait... are you Bruce Lee?"
Bruce Lee glanced at the man enjoying his gyoza, then recognition flashed across his face. "Oh? Are you Zaboru? What's someone like you doing in a place like this? Isn't this a bit... beneath your level?" he said with a teasing grin.
Zaboru couldn't help but chuckle at the comment.
"What level? I just enjoy good food — and honestly, I prefer this over any fancy place. These gyoza are magical," Zaboru replied with a relaxed grin.
Bruce Lee chuckled and said, "Well, mind if I sit too? I've gotta try these dumplings myself."
"Of course, have a seat, Mr. Lee," Zaboru said warmly. "And here in Japan, we call them gyoza."
Bruce Lee laughed as he took a seat across from Zaboru. "Gyoza, huh? I'll remember that." He waved to the owner and ordered a few plates for himself, curious to taste what had his fellow diner so enthusiastic. Zaboru, already halfway through his meal, smiled and ordered a few more plates to keep up with his appetite.
Zaboru leaned in and started a bit of small talk with Bruce Lee. "Mr. Lee, what brings you to Japan? Vacation?"
Bruce Lee chuckled and gave a nod. "Yeah, just a little trip with my family. Thought we'd enjoy some time here."
Zaboru smiled. "What a coincidence. My ZAGE offices are just nearby. If you ever feel like stopping by, you're welcome anytime, Mr. Lee."
Bruce Lee returned the smile with a polite nod. "Well, if I find the time, I'd be glad to, Zaboru."
Zaboru continued to chow down on his food, one plate after another, barely slowing between bites. Bruce Lee watched in surprise, clearly impressed.
"You sure can eat, Zaboru," he said with a grin.
Zaboru wiped his mouth and smiled. "I just love eating."
Bruce laughed. "And you don't drink alcohol?"
Zaboru shook his head. "Nope. Never got into it."
Bruce chuckled and returned to his meal. "Discipline and appetite. I like that."
Bruce Lee took note of Zaboru's physique and immediately recognized the posture of someone familiar with martial arts. "You practice martial arts, Zaboru?" he asked with interest.
Zaboru's eyes widened slightly. "Yeah, I do — in my spare time," he replied, then hesitated before adding, "Mr. Lee, would you be willing to teach me? Even just once would mean the world to me."
His heart was racing. Meeting Bruce Lee by chance like this? It felt unreal. In his previous life, he had been a massive fan — Bruce Lee was one of his idols. Now, sitting across from him, Zaboru was doing his best to stay composed, even as his excitement surged beneath the surface.
Bruce Lee laughed and said, "Sure thing. I think my friend owns a martial arts gym nearby — let's head over."
Then Zaboru and Bruce Lee go to a martial arts Gym.
Bruce Lee and Zaboru began working out together. Bruce was genuinely surprised by how well-built Zaboru was — especially his strength, speed, and fluid movement. He quickly realized that Zaboru had immense potential. Intrigued, Bruce began teaching him some of his signature techniques. What shocked him even more was how quickly Zaboru picked them up. His reactions were sharp, his form was precise, and he moved with an instinct that couldn't be taught. Bruce couldn't help but be impressed.
"You've got real talent in martial arts," Bruce Lee said with a nod of approval.
But Zaboru only sighed quietly. He knew deep down that his ability didn't come from years of hard work like Bruce Lee's — it was a result of the reincarnator perk he carried, a cheat of sorts. He had no intention of revealing that, nor did he want to flaunt his skills in front of someone he respected so deeply.
"I still have a lot to learn, Mr. Lee," he replied humbly. "And honestly, I don't think I'm all that talented."
Bruce Lee smiled, appreciating Zaboru's humility. The two spent more time training together at the gym, exchanging techniques, ideas, and a few laughs. For Zaboru, it was an unforgettable experience — learning directly from his lifelong idol felt like a dream turned real.
Before parting ways, they exchanged phone numbers, promising to keep in touch. Zaboru then returned to the ZAGE offices, took a quick shower to freshen up, and dove back into his work, still riding the high of an extraordinary morning.
To be continue
AN : This are just fanboy Chapter LoL
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