The Southern Air Temple sanctuary seems to stretch upward indefinitely. However, at its base, there is very limited space in the hall. The Avatar began long ago, and soon it will cease to exist.
ooo
Useless.
That was it; she was useless. They had machines, metal, everything. There was no need for her any more. After all, what use could a Firebender have to people with electric heat and light available? What good was a Waterbender with running water to quench their needs? What was the need for an Earthbender when cranes could lift and drills could penetrate? What reason had Airbenders to exist if fans and jets existed? Art mattered not; the forms had been lost long ago. Spirituality had ceased to influence; in its place reigned science as master of all.
She thought of those who had preceded her. Two cycles and seven centuries ago, her ancestor Aang had been a prodigy. Before him, Avatar Roku had accomplished much in his lifetime for humanity. Avatars Kyoshi, Kuruk, Yangchen, all others before her had all been a benefit to mankind. Even Avatar Korra had aided civilization.
But no longer could the Avatar dominate. No longer could man be inhibited by spirits and gods; now, it was science. To learn the purposes and the functions of every concept created was the ultimate goal. Fate had known long ago that there would come a time when the need for a supernatural being faded and the Spirit of the World would return to its heavenly perch someday.
Realizing this, the Avatar looked to the sky, sighed, and meditated.
There was something she had to do.