Here's chapter 3! i added more to the memories and a few more details in general. re-enjoy and please review!
The next morning Aang woke before the rest of the group. He had been a little restless the entire night, the talk about energy bending had brought up memories he had tried for years to suppress. He walked over to the nearby river and discarded his shirt and shoes. Normally he'd go so far as removing his pants to only stay in his underwear but he thought better of it since there were more people than just their close knit group. The sun was just rising over the horizon painting the sky a beautiful shade of purple tinted with wisps of orange while he soaked in the chilled water.
"That scar on your back…looks painful," Aang turned to see Kakashi addressing him.
"Oh yeah I got shot by lightening during our war…that shot killed me," Aang walked out of the river drying himself quickly with air bending.
"You died? Then shouldn't you still be dead?" he asked curiously.
Aang smiled, "I have Katara and the Avatar spirits to thank for that. Through both of them I was able to save my own life as well as the life of the Avatar. I ended up in a coma for about a month though."
"Hmmm, this war you just mentioned, when did it end?" he asked taking a seat on a rock nearby.
"6 years ago," Aang answered redressing.
Kakashi's eye widened, "How old are you now?"
"I'm 18," Aang smiled seeing where these questions were leading.
"Then you were 12 when you fought this war?" Kakashi asked unbelieving.
Aang nodded, "The youngest Avatar to master all four elements."
"How long did this war last for?"
"100 years, it's known in our land as the 100 Year War," he answered chuckling to himself.
Kakashi was confused again but didn't say anything more.
"Don't worry, when we meet with your Hokage my entire past will be explained. I would like it if you were present since you were one of the people Kami told me to find."
Kakashi laughed now, "You commune with spirits, control a series of elements like it's natural for you, you were 12 when you fought in a war that you ended after it lasted for 100 years…what are you doing here? Why would some of our divine beings want you here unless they know something that we don't…" he finished off in a whisper.
"May I ask you a personal question?" Aang asked.
"I think I've done that to you so ask away?" he shrugged.
"Do you have any special abilities like time-space traveling?" Aang asked not looking at him.
Kakashi looked over at him, "I've just awaken my Magenkyo Sharingan and yes, had you not stepped in and taken care of the explosion I would've blown it into another dimension."
Aang smiled, "You were the one Kami was talking about. She told me the one who would assist us in sending us back to our own world was a powerful man not easily killed. It would make sense that she would tell me to look for a man with silver hair and to count him as my ally."
Kakashi thought about what he said, "That's a lot of pressure you just put on my shoulders. But I will try my best not to die."
Aang chuckled, "Trust me, I want to return to my son I won't let anything happen to you if I can help it."
Kakashi smiled, "I don't think I've ever had a body guard before…"
"Feels like more people are awake," Aang said casually not turning around to look.
Kakashi turned, "Everyone except Naruto and Sokka are currently awake."
"Sokka would be the last one to wake up." Aang stood up and stretched.
"Same with Naruto…oh and one more thing," Kakashi turned to look at him, "You can trust Naruto and Sakura. I would try to find some time to speak with him if you can, I think you'll find more in common with him than you realize," Kakashi turned and headed back to the camp.
Aang joined the rest just as Suki was waking up Sokka, "No…not yet…the sun isn't up yet…"
"Give me a break Sokka," she said then promptly lifted him up in his sleeping bag and began carrying him to the river. Sokka noticed where she was going and promptly jumped out of his bag.
"I'm up! I'm up!" he screamed at her.
"After all these years you still whine about getting up in the morning," Katara muttered rolling up hers and Aang's bag.
"Some things will never change," Aang kissed her head.
They ate a meager breakfast of rice cakes and other non-perishables. Sokka stocked up on jerky and handed a few pieces to the gang. Momo went scavenging and found him and Aang some wild berries.
"Oi Aang," Naruto called getting his attention, "Want a rice ball?"
"Is there any meat in it?" he asked walking over to him.
Naruto cocked his head to the side, "No…but it's delicious."
"Thank you," Aang took the rice ball and ate it smiling, "You were right, it is delicious."
"Do you not eat meat Avatar?" Lee asked.
"Call me Aang, and I don't eat meat," he answered smiling.
"What about ramen?" Naruto asked.
"Ramen?" he looked confused.
Naruto's grin grew wide, "I'm taking you to eat the best ramen in all of the Hidden Leaf…Ichiraku's Ramen."
The ninjas all snickered at him.
"Naruto is a ramen addict," Sakura clarified, "It's a noodle and soup dish and I have to admit…we do have the best ramen chef in Konoha."
"Time to move out," Kakashi announced.
Everyone mounted Appa while Aang gave him a short pat on his nose.
"Just a little farther alright buddy."
Appa groaned then shook his head in anticipation.
Aang laughed, "Sorry, I guess old habits die hard don't they?"
Appa grunted again as Momo suddenly appeared squawking and flying directly towards Aang. The gang all stood up as they watch an exchange between the two.
"It seems there's a bit of a problem in one of the towns not too far from here," Aang told the group as he jumped into the saddle, "In my world it's my responsibility to look into disruptions but since we're not in my world I'll leave the decision up to you."
Guy and Kakashi shared a glance, "Does he know exactly where?" Guy asked.
"Where at Momo?" Aang asked the lemur who squawked and began flying northeast.
"That direction," Aang told them.
"Well we are in our home land, can't hurt right?" Tenten offered but left the decision up to others.
"I agree, and it may be nothing and we would be heading in the general direction for home anyway," Lee's face grew excited.
"We do have important information to relay," Neji objected.
"But we also have a quicker mode of transportation and we're already ahead of schedule," Sakura said.
"Then it's settled, let's go!" Naruto exclaimed looking expectantly at Aang.
Aang smiled just smiled and waited for the older men to make the final decision.
"Besides if there is trouble, I want to see what our new friends can do," Naruto's smile turned mischievous.
"Baka," Sakura muttered but she agreed with her teammate nudging him softly in the shoulder smiling at him.
"Well Guy, seems we're outvoted, sorry Neji but we will see what's happening," Kakashi concluded.
Aang nodded then Appa took off after Momo. There was smoke rising above the trees and Aang landed Appa down about a mile out of town. The entire group dismounted.
"This will be first a foremost a Leaf matter, I would like to advise you to stay in the background until we know exactly what's happening," Guy informed the gang.
"We understand," Aang agreed as they began walking up the main road.
"Neji, what's happening inside?" Guy asked.
Neji activated his Byakugan and stared earnestly at the village, "It seems to be the work of low level ninjas, and they are pillaging the town. So far no casualties. I count 10 thieves total."
"Nah easy enough, let's get right to it," Naruto began to walk forward only to be stop by Sakura.
"You're not team Capitan," she chided.
"Kakashi?" Guy questioned looking at the town.
"Normally this would be considered a B ranked mission since they are ninjas. In terms of payment they can probably only afford C rank," Kakashi concluded with his hands in his pockets.
"You guys get paid for helping people?" Sokka asked eyes narrowing.
"Yes, it's how we earn our living, being a ninja in our world is our job. We take missions and if we return alive we get paid. Differently ranked mission's means a difference in payments. B ranked is higher than C meaning there's more money involved and also greater risk for B ranks," Kakashi explained.
"And usually we only go out on mission that has been commissioned, except for emergency situations like the ones you guys stumbled upon with us," Sakura smiled furthering the explanation.
Aang began to feel uneasy.
"It almost seems wrong to charge people for helping them…" Katara stated echoing his feelings.
"How else would you have us live? It's our way of life," Kakashi shrugged his shoulders.
"If it's an issue of money then my group and I can take care of it…we're not ninjas so we won't have to charge them," Aang offered.
"But then you would be cheating us out of a day's work," Guy said.
"Anyway you wouldn't be fighting anyway," Katara told Aang.
Aang looked shocked, "Are you serious?"
"Yes, don't think for a minute I'm gonna have you putting your life on the line over petty thieves in a strange world. You are too important, we can handle it," Katara told him firmly.
Aang smirked at her, "I'm not weak Katara."
"Katara you're taking out a major player, what if these guys can bend things we can't," Sokka pointed out.
"Sokka I'm not losing him," she turned her firm eyes on him.
"I'm going to have to fight sometime Katara; you never stopped me before, why now?" Aang asked.
Katara turned back to him and he could see her trying to hold back tears, "We're not discussing this now."
Aang's face softened as he pulled her into a hug, "You heard me talking this morning…didn't you?"
She tensed giving her away. "It's not going to happened again Katara, I promise you that," He whispered his fervent promise.
Everyone around them stood by watching awkwardly. Everyone except Naruto.
"What are you two talking about?" he asked quietly.
"These things will be explained once we meet with your Hokage," Sokka answered him.
"Katara," Toph turned toward her and grabbed her arm yanking her out of Aang's grasp, "We need to talk."
"I don't want to…" Katara didn't even try to fight knowing that she would lose.
Kakashi looked at Aang, "That scar…same thing you told me before?"
Aang nodded, "Ever since, but more so now that we're married and have a child."
Kakashi nodded while Naruto shot him an accusatory look, "When did he tell you and not us?"
"I asked him this morning, but his answers were very confusing so it's best to just wait," Kakashi answered as Katara and Toph walked back.
"One of us is with you at all times, you hear me Aang," Katara said folding her arms.
He drew her hands away from her, "Yes my dear," he promised kissing her hands.
"Katara, just so this is out in the open, you are one lucky gal. I think most girls would kill to get a guy such as yours," Tenten commented smiling.
"Uh huh, smile girlfriend, because both of us are jealous," Sakura smiled as well while Naruto scowled at Sakura.
Katara lifted her head up smiling gratefully at both of the women, "Thank you."
"Alright are we saving people or not?" Sokka interrupted.
"I agree with Sokka, we should rid the village of the enemy," Lee agreed with fierce looking eyes.
Guy laughed at his apprentice's antics, "Kakashi they may have already sent a civilian to the Leaf about this, we can send a notice to Tsunade saying what we're doing so they don't send others."
"I think you're right," Kakashi bit his thumb then placed his hand on the ground summoning a small dog.
"Yo," the dog said causing the gang to all freeze with side eyes.
"Hey Pakkun, I need to you deliver a message to Tsunade as fast as you can," Kakashi tied a small scroll to his neck.
"Right," he said then took off at blinding speed.
"That dog…it spoke right…I'm not the only one that saw that right?" Sokka asked looking at everyone.
Naruto laughed, "If only you could see your faces!"
Toph laughed with him, "Yeah if only I could."
That comment made even more people laugh. A few moments later two children came running up the path the ninjas were stopped on. The girls screamed not noticing them until at the last moment. She gripped the young boys hand and pulled him behind her.
Her eyes widened then seeing their headbands, "You're ninjas from Konoha right?" she asked a little wary.
"We are young lady and who might you be?" Guy asked.
"My name is Tsumi and this is my little brother Taki," she pulled the scared boy forward, "We just escaped from the town to head towards our village…will you please help us…my mom and dad they…"
Aang stepped forward and knelt down in front of the girl, "Don't cry," he told her gently wiping away her tears, "You saved your little brother and now you must be strong for him. I will help you that's my promise as the Avatar."
Katara smiled at the tender exchange and shared a significant glanced with Sokka and Suki.
Naruto smiled and stepped up joining Aang, "You have my word brave girl that your village will be free from these men who have harmed your family."
Sakura and Kakashi sighed. "Well seems Naruto sealed our fate," Kakashi mused.
Aang stood looking towards the smoke rising, "I know the men who did this won't answer to us. It's obvious since we're not wearing your headbands."
"We should try still Aang, you won't be happy if we don't," Sokka advised.
Aang nodded, "Let's go, the more time we waste the more people will die. We're here to stop that and aid those who also wish to stop it." He turned looking at his friends.
Sokka dropped him arm from around Suki then drew his sword swinging it above his head. Suki pulled out her fans flipping them in her hands. Toph drew both of her metal rods then smacked them into the ground and they took the shape of two swords.
She grinned, "It's been a while since I've been in a good scuffle. The Earth Rumbles back at home are getting dreadfully easy."
Aang chuckled before looking at the ninjas, "You were not commissioned to assist this city. In order to preserve your…ideals…we will assist."
"Well," Kakashi sighed looking at Guy, "they are in a foreign land and we do not know the opponents abilities; seems we would receive more of a beating from the Hokage if we didn't assist than if we were late."
"I agree Kakashi-sensei, we don't want Tsunade-sama mad," Sakura shivered involuntarily.
"Then it's decided, we will created a perimeter in order to catch any bandits that would be trying to escape the city. The Avatar and his friends will deal with things happening inside. If everything goes smoothly then this should all be over within an hour," Guy surmised.
Kakashi nodded, "Naruto I want shadow clones on the wall of the city, do not attack unless you…"
"Aang's protection it top priority," Katara cut him off.
Kakashi nodded, "Naruto your clones will guard Aang's blind spot where ever he is in the city. The rest of us will provide back up if they try to escape just like Guy suggested. Let's get this done quickly; we have important information to get to the Hokage. Sakura find the children a safe place to hide then watch the front gate. Everyone else let's move out."
Aang looked at Toph, "Where are the main forces?"
Toph sighed, "You know you can do this too…"
"There are three by the main gate waiting for us…where are the others?" he asked her with a smile.
Neji activated his Byakugan and was about to report when Tenten halted him telling him to watch.
Aang felt it, "You said you guys wanted to gauge our abilities. Toph is correct that I share the same abilities as her, but her metal rods allow her greater sight at longer distances."
Toph strode forward, "Nobody move or you'll throw me off." She stabbed the two rods into the ground causing the area around them to shake. After a few seconds she sent another pulse into the ground then stood up.
"Like you said: three at the gate, two on the right and one on the left. The rest are in the main plaza and they have the men line up against the wall…" she paused listening to the children's heart beats increase, "I shouldn't say anymore."
Aang nodded, "Sokka you and Suki take care of the main gate. The rest of us will drop in on Appa. Let's hurry before anyone loses their lives."
They all nodded then the ninjas took off except for Sakura, "Be careful, all jutsu is preceded by hand signs so you will have a few moments to prepare even if you don't know what's going to happen."
"Thanks for the tip," Sokka said, "We'll just have to be faster."
"Remember we're taking them prisoner, no casualties if we can help it," Aang reminded.
Sokka sighed, "We know Aang now let's go."
The benders boarded Appa and Sokka and Suki took off at a run. Appa hovered above them high in the air until he knew they were in sight of the front gate.
Sokka and Suki slowed when they saw the front gate. They easily spotted the three guards on the wall, two on the right and one of the left just like Toph had told them.
"The village is closed," one of the men shouted.
"We see smoke, are you guys in need of assistance?" Suki called out still walking forward.
"No, leave at once!" Another guard called out.
"Are you sure, because you guys look a little worn out to me," Sokka called stretching his hands above his head.
"Beat it or we'll use force," One of the men jumped down, he had a three pronged symbol reminding him of bad sketches of mountains on his forehead. But what really caught Sokka's interest was the long straight line that was struck right down the middle.
"Well we hurried for no reason then could you guys at least give us something to drink?" he asked hands resting behind his head.
The guard grunted at him, "Final warning, leave or you and your pretty little girl will be dead."
Suki smirked, "I'm sure." She suddenly struck out at blinding speed knocking the man to the ground. His two companions quickly reacted. Another jumped down forming a series of hand signs before rock spears jumped out from the ground. Sokka and Suki leapt over them effortlessly, thanks to training from Toph.
"I'm got him you go after the third!" Sokka yelled over at Suki.
"Got it!" she yelled scaling the wall. Once she reached the top she deflected two knives thrown at her head. She commenced her attack only to find she was facing another earth bender. She smiled at her luck thinking it would be easy to dodge since she could feel the assault coming. One thing she didn't count on was getting a lucky hit on the guy and it turned into a rock. She stood there stumped before more knives were heading straight for her head. Next thing she knew a blonde haired kid jumped in front of her taking the hit before disappearing in a puff of smoke. After the smoke cleared she saw two more blondes apprehending her opponent. Another glance over the wall and she saw three more of the same kid tying up the wall guards.
"You gonna stand there all day or are we joining the others?" Sokka called from inside the gates.
Suki rolled her eyes, "I'm coming."
She jumped down only to receive a quick passionate kiss before they took off running through the town.
Naruto's clones were watching the action and he had to admit they were good. He never knew that fans could be so formidable and durable in a fight. Even against two decent earth users they easily anticipated the attacks every time they came. When he saw Suki freeze out of shock he knew he might have to step in. Two kunai knives were being thrown at her and she didn't notice until his clone jumped in front of her taking the hit. Another clone disappeared as he knew the other would need their assistance so he stepped in and helped them both end their fights.
"Go," he told Sokka, "They will need you over in the main area."
Sokka nodded called to his partner then they both took off running.
Aang lead Appa forward after they left Sokka and Suki to their battle. He circled the main area where Toph directed them to go. There were indeed 5 men lined up against the wall guards and the main villagers cowering behind in fear. He was instantly reminded of some of the broken Earth Kingdom towns during the war, his face grew serious.
"I want to make an entrance," he called back to Toph and Katara.
"Good I think an entrance is necessary and also wicked fun," Toph commented gripping the sides of the saddle.
Katara nodded, "Let's do it."
"Alright I'm going to have Appa fly a little low drawing their attention then we're going to jump off and knock out the two guards by the prisoners on the wall. Then we're going to talk to the leader," Aang told them the plan.
"And what if the leader doesn't like what we have to say?" Katara asked.
"Then we defend the villagers and take the men hostage."
"Let's do this," Toph said anxious.
Aang nodded, "Alright buddy take us down low over their heads then fly out of range," Appa grunted in response.
Another second later Aang yelled out after them, "Now!"
They all jumped as the crowd below them gasped at the sight of Appa. Some of the men threw kunai knives at his direction but Aang swiftly blew them away with a wave of his staff. Once they landed Katara quickly wrapped water around each of the guards and threw them on the ground by Toph. She responded by binding them in earth covering their entire bodies except for their heads.
The rest of the gang was poised and ready to attack but then Aang spoke up, "I need to speak with the leader of your group."
The men chuckled, "Why, we have no business with you."
"I have business with you; this town is not yours for the taking. I wish to speak to the man in charge," Aang repeated standing tall staff out in front of him. He banged it on the ground for emphasis.
"I'm the leader," a man stepped from off the steps of the main building with a cigarette in his mouth.
Aang stepped forward a couple of steps, "Why this town? What purpose does this serve invading and stealing these people's livelihoods and homes?"
The man laughed, "Power…do I need another reason. Besides you look too young to even understand."
"I may look young but I've seen my fair share of hatred and violence. I'm going to ask you to leave peacefully before my friends and I take drastic actions," he warned eyes narrowing.
"Drastic actions you say, well I'd love to see that," the leader mocked.
"I don't want to take that route, please leave quietly," Aang asked pounding his staff against the ground again.
The man now peered at him suspicious, "No, and that's my final answer. This village belongs to me and my men. These people weren't powerful enough to protect it themselves. Anyone weak enough like that need someone like me to rule over them. Now I'm going to kill you then take both of your women for myself. I think they will please me greatly," he winked at Katara.
Aang's face became enraged, "You will not speak about my wife in that fashion!"
The leader laughed again as well as his men, "Then would you like a play by play of what I'm going to do with your wife?"
He didn't see the stream of water heading straight towards his head. Once of his men blocked it with an earth wall.
"I think not," Katara sneered at him.
"Well if it's a fight you want then I challenge anyone who can use earth to a battle. If you can beat me then you can have me," Toph taunted flipping her hair.
"Deal," the leader agreed without thinking.
"I'm not finished, if you lose we get to take you all prisoner," she concluded.
"Let's begin then, move those people out of the way!" the leader barked at his men.
Katara walked over to the men on the wall ushering them to safety. Aang kept a careful eye on her.
Toph strode forward swinging her two metal rods around her, "So who's first?"
"I am," a large man called out smirking. The rouge ninjas made a circle.
"The first one to give loses," her opponent called out.
"I'll have you begging for mercy before I even break a sweat," she taunted shoving one rod into the ground sealing it into the ground.
He started circling her and she stayed completely still listening to his movements over the taunting crowd. The giant threw three shrunken at her and she lifted her other rod up and blocked them.
"Really, that's all you got?" she questioned.
"Oh I'm just getting warmed up," he replied easily smiling at her.
Toph felt his upper body move then the ground began to shake. Rock spears huh,she thought to herself. They shot up in her direction, he intended to impale her quickly but she created a rock pyramid protecting herself. Once she felt him stop she instantly shot one of the walls breaking through the spears and in the dust cloud of the first attack she shot the second half of the wall right behind the first. The giant blocked the first attack but didn't anticipate the second. As soon as it hit him, Toph sprang up running through the path she created. The giant jumped up then throwing two kunai in her direction which she deflected again but not before once left a scratch on her shoulder.
"Oh did I hurt you?" he taunted.
Toph growled, "No…you just pissed me off!"
The entire ground began to shake and the giant was thrown off his balance. Four spears shot up from the ground piercing the man in both arms and legs. He let out a loud wail before she shot the spears up higher causing the man's body to fall slightly more due to gravity.
"Doesn't feel nice does it!" she shouted at him, "Who's next or are the rest of you too chicken?"
"I think we're done playing games, everyone, take them out," the leader ordered.
The last three thugs sprang forward leaving their leader undefended. Aang and Katara sprang forward since none of the men were walking on earth it was harder for Toph to sense them. Aang shot two fireballs out of his hands causing the men to land back on the ground. Toph smiled and started attacking one of them. The other two ran towards Aang and Katara. Once of them also used fire style so Aang opted to fight him while Katara took on a smaller quicker opponent. One things she didn't expect was the blinding speed at which this guy could move. Whenever she thought she got him he disappeared.
She was beginning to get frustrated until she remembered some of the training with Aang after the war: Air benders were never much for fighting, but when we did spar against people we would often get compliments on our speed. So the trick would be to not follow us with your eyes.
She refocused standing in one direction her arms covered in water. Her opponent was smiling and standing right in front of her. She smiled back then crouched ready for his attack. He sprang forward charging directly at her while forming hand signs. She immediately shot her hands out in an effort to catch him but he disappeared and she sensed him behind her. She waited for him to attack again and when he did she turned at the last second and froze him.
The fire user was shocked seeing Aang easily deflecting his attacks. Aang smiled remembering his own frustration when training with Zuko after the war. Even without the comet's help Zuko managed to create massive waves of fire expecting Aang to deflect them. He imagined this opponent was feeling the same. In another instant the man made his biggest mistake he jumped up into the air expecting to catch him off guard, all Aang had to do was create a small air current spin him around a couple times and send him flying into the ground.
Aang looked around after he finished to see both Katara and Toph finished. Another glance had him wide eyed with Sokka and Suki standing near the leader who was unconscious on the ground.
Aang sighed, "I really wanted to beat him."
Katara laughed, "To think he'd be taken down as easily as a blow to the head."
They were joined by the ninjas a few seconds later.
"That was awesome!" Naruto shouted fist pumping the air.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it," Toph smirked folding her arms.
"Can I see your fans?" Tenten asked Suki who showed her.
"An interesting performance to say the least," Kakashi walked up reading a book, "It's amazing what you guys can do without having to form chakra."
Aang shrugged, "Well it's just a part of who we are."
Appa landed then.
"Time to go," Guy announced as he and his group rounded up all the rouges, "Grass Country, Genin's by the looks of it, could possibly be Chunin but never took the exam."
"Oh definitely Chunin, probably went rouge before actually going through the exam," Kakashi observed.
"How far are we from the Village Hidden in Leaves?" Aang asked.
"Oh about 4 hours," Kakashi answered.
"Appa should be able to fly us all there then," Aang told him.
"Very well let's tie them up, Naruto go get Sakura so she can sedate these men," Kakashi ordered.
Kakashi approached Neji, "So what kind of chakra do they have?"
"It's hard to explain," he replied, "It's there but different. We actually have to mix out internal energies together in order to perform a jutsu but them…they just do it. Like it's a part of their body."
"Hmmm."
"That woman, Katara, did you see what she did to that man?" Neji pointed to the one frozen, "I've never see ice style before."
"I have. Naruto fought a boy named Haku who possessed the Kekkei Genkai for Ice."
"I don't get it," Neji's eyes narrowed in thought.
"I think when we reach Konoha many things will make sense," Kakashi replied walking over to the bison.
Naruto secured all the prisoners together while Guy and Lee talked to the grateful villagers. They all waved goodbye as Appa took to the air carrying the prisoners under him.
The gates of Konoha were in view and Kakashi instructed Aang to land outside of the village.
"I think their appearance should be shrouded until the Hokage can make a decision about them," Guy advised.
Kakashi nodded, "True, but we have unexpected prisoners that need to be taken care of."
Guy nodded then, "We will take them to the Intelligence Division while you take our guests to the Hokage."
They divided into groups and Neji approached Kakashi, "I want to be there for their explanation please."
"I'll tell Tsunade, I think the rest of your team is equally curious," Kakashi smiled.
Appa flew over the town higher than necessary so they didn't attract any unwanted attention. Naruto pointed out the Hokage's tower and instructed him to land just inside the gate. Several ninjas in the village who spotted them hurried to the location outlining the top of the wall. They recognized Kakashi's team immediately and only observed as Kakashi waved them off. Their group easily slide off the giant bison entered the Hokage's tower in single file. Appa promptly settled onto the ground with Momo chattering away on his head.
Tsunade felt an uncomfortable presence of shinobi around her tower. She stood up from her chair and looked out one of her large windows overlooking the village. She noticed a large summons animal with an arrow and wooden contraption lying down in front of her tower. She could make out Sakura's pink hair before it disappeared and she wondered what was going on.
"Shizune!" she yelled.
She came walking in a few seconds later, "Yes Tsunade-sama."
"Team Kakashi is back and I want a full report from them immediately," she ordered as a small knock cut her off, "Come in!" she ordered louder than needed.
Kakashi walked in followed by Naruto and five people she had never seen before with Sakura entering last.
"Tsunade-shishou," Sakura bowed.
"Oi! Tsunade ba-chan we brought you a surprise!" Naruto announced.
Tsunade's eyes narrowed, "I can see that Naruto. First things first report on the Kazekage."
Kakashi gave his report of the incident leaving out a few areas he knew she would drill him on later in private. He spoke briefly on the meeting with the Aang and his friends and the rescue of the small town. Tsunade's eyes narrowed and Sakura shifted her feet.
"You should have come home directly especially since you brought some visitors with you," she scolded.
"It's my fault," Aang spoke up, not wanting them to take the heat for his decision.
Tsunade gave him a once over. Bald, blue arrow tattoo that lined his head and his hands dressed in orange and yellow, older boy about 18-20, 6 foot tall with a decent build, carrying a large staff or walking stick and was obviously the leader of the group since he entered first and the others seemed to naturally defer to him.
"Your name?" she asked leaning back in her chair.
"My name is Aang. We were sent here by Kami to assist you and your world in the upcoming war," he answered honestly.
Tsunade was taken aback by his proclamation, "Who sent you here?"
"Kami, I believe she is one of your deities in this world," he answered again.
Shizune looked at her master as Tsunade spoke to her in a soft tone, "Grab me that scroll."
Shizune walked out of the room and returned a few minutes later. Tsunade took the scroll from her and opened it.
"Ba-chan," Naruto whined, "Aren't you going to ask…"
"Silence Naruto," she scolded eyes closing and she set the scroll down, "Who else know of them?" she asked Kakashi.
"My team and Guy's. They wish to be present for their explanation that Aang has agreed to give."
Tsunade sighed, "Shizune tell Team Guy to come here at once and also Inoichi Yamanaka, Shikaku and Shikamaru Nara."
"Yes Tsunade-sama," she left the room.
"Who are the rest of your friends?" Tsunade asked.
"This is my wife Katara, her brother Sokka and wife Suki, and this is Toph," Aang answered.
Tsunade looked them all over; Sokka and Suki looked like seasoned warriors, the man stood about 6'2" with his wife about 5'9". Toph was giving off an air of dominance that rivaled Kiba even though she was barely taller that 5'3" be her reckoning. And Katara had a very mellow and motherly appearance about her as she stood comfortably by her husband's side coming up to his shoulder.
Another knock on the door and team Guy entered the room.
"Report," Tsunade looked directly at Guy. He gave a brief and similar report as Kakashi.
Tsunade nodded, "So you were with Kakashi's team when they decided to show up?" she indicated to Aang's group.
"Yes Hokage-sama, they have been nothing but helpful since we met. Katara is also a very capable healer," Guy answered.
Tsunade glanced at her then at Sakura who nodded, "She helped speed along Kakashi's healing after using his Magenkyo Sharingan."
Katara bowed her head as Tsunade addressed her, "It will be interesting to evaluate your skills."
"We have expected as much," Aang replied as the others nodded.
"We had a nice warm up at the village earlier," Toph cracked her knuckles.
Another knock announced the arrival of the Nara father and son, "You wished to see us Hokage-sama?" Shikaku asked glancing at the unknown visitors.
"Yes we are waiting for Inoichi before we commence," Tsunade answered.
"And who are they?" Shikamaru asked in his typical lazy tone of voice.
"They are the reason we are waiting for Yamananka."
The younger Nara sighed.
"I believe we're going to need to move locations, it's getting crowded in here," Kakashi commented.
"Shizune, prepare the conference room and make sure the advisors don't find out about this," Tsunade ordered.
"Yes Tsunade-sama," she bowed and left.
Inoichi and Shizune returned at the same time.
"Let's relocate to the conference room," Tsunade led the way with the rest of the room following.
They entered the room waiting for orders. Shizune had set it up so the table was pushed off to the side and chairs scattered around. Tsunade stood near a Konoha Banner along the opposite wall of the table with Shikaku, Shikamaru, Inoichi, and Shizune to one side and the two teams on the other. The gang stood in the middle.
Tsunade looked directly at Aang, "I'm going to have this gentleman," she pointed to Inoichi, "Prove to me that you are who you are. He will enter into your mind…"
Aang raised a hand, "No offense your majesty but, some things in my mind need to stay there and they are not allowed to be shared with others."
Tsunade nodded, "Just as well but I still require it before I can have to stay here without being under a constant watch."
"Ba-chan can't you take their word for it…we we're with them the entire time," Naruto turned to face her hands on his hips.
"No Naruto, I cannot, I need to have it verified," she answered him.
Aang sought Katara's hand for strength, "Is there a compromise we can make, I don't want to end up hurting your man here if he goes places that aren't allowed."
Tsunade thought a moment then whispered to Inoichi. "Yes Hokage, I can do that," he answered.
Shizune was ordered to pull out a projector and hooked up a chakra sensor to one on Inoichi's hands. Inoichi grab a small table while Lee and Neji were ordered to take down the banner they stood in front of. Two chairs were placed behind the small table for Aang and Inoichi to sit in.
"This projector," Tsunade explained, " will allow everyone in the room to see what you are going to show us, that way you can monitor what we do and do not see. Will this work for you?"
Aang nodded then sat in the chair indicated for him. Katara stood by his side still holding one of his hands while Toph, Sokka, and Suki surrounded him. Toph drew one of her rods holding it to her side.
Tsunade eyed her when Sokka answered her question, "It's a precaution. Aang has mastered the Avatar State but sometimes strong emotions can trigger it."
"And since someone else will be pulling up memories it could be harder for him to suppress it," Katara finished.
"Should we have a seal placed on him?" Tsuande asked.
"No need he's got his lucky charm," Toph nudged Katara.
"I won't let it happen," Katara promised smiling.
Tsunade nodded, "Let's begin."
Inoichi closed his eyes in concentration with one hand on Aang's forehead while Aang's eyes were open watching the wall.
"Start farther back," he indicated with a small strain in his voice.
Inoichi did as he was told when he stopped at a younger Aang sitting in a larger rooms surrounded by old men in a large meeting area. He was told he was the Avatar and was given his old play toys to prove it. They saw his struggle which ultimately led to his running away then freezing himself in a block of ice.
"Skip ahead," Aang told him as the screen went white for the next five minutes, "Stop."
They saw him regain consciousness and look into Katara's younger face. Their journey to the Southern Air Temple led to his first major trigger of the Avatar State causing a small gasp from some of the people in the room. Aang cringed but Katara stood firm gripping his hand. Kakashi gave him a wary glance which Sokka noticed.
"You haven't seen anything yet," he said somberly. He turned his attention back to the wall as he watched and relived Aang's destruction.
Events that happened in their lives skipped before them then all of a sudden Aang stood before Roku's statue.
"Skip ahead, don't watch that," he ordered.
Inoichi flipped through quickly until Aang stopped them as the temple collapsed. They weaved their way through his memories until they reached the Northern Water Tribe and the assault that ensued. The sounds of battle echoed in the room as everyone watched with impassive faces. Yue led them to the Koi fish pond where Aang stopped them again.
"Don't watch that, everyone close your eyes," Aang's voice sounded a little strained.
"What happens during that time?" Naruto asked.
"I can't speak of it, only I'm allowed to know," Aang answered.
He stopped Inoichi and let everyone open their eyes when Sokka and Katara rescued him from Zuko. Tsunade's eyes bugged out of her head when Aang transformed La, the ocean spirit, and wrecked havoc. Aang choked then trying not to let his emotions get to him, La's anger was intense and reliving it again through memories were still rough on him. Katara bent down and kissed his forehead.
"Shhhh, it's in the past," she whispered.
Aang had to skip again when Roku took him up to explain the Avatar State and its risks. Toph's introduction led to a few chuckles from the younger ninjas. Azula's chase gave the room a greater understanding of the problems that they faced and also another demonstration of power. Appa's kidnapping also allowed them to see Aang's not so gentle and easy going side as they witnessed his rage at losing someone dear to him. His jaw tensed in his own anger.
"Stay calm…" Sokka muttered watching eyes glued to the wall.
"That's one culture I'm glad to not have to see again," Aang responded with an edge to his voice.
Katara glanced at her husband, "Aang control your anger," she chided.
He sighed without being able to nod his ascent. They continued on their journey battling the giant water serpent earning a cheer from Naruto and a chuckle from Sakura. The battle between Aang and Azula showed just how dangerous and vindictive she was.
"Damn Aang, you just blew her off the drill," Sokka chuckled as well as Suki.
He smirked, "Her fault for getting in the way."
Once they entered Ba Sing Se they weren't at all surprised at the level of corruption within the city. The memories continued until Aang was shot by lightening then everything went black. He didn't know what to expect here since this is where he died then faces started showing up.
"No!" he shouted startling the deathly silent room. He immediately took control of his mind causing Inoichi to gasped and break the connection.
They were both breathing hard as Aang dropped his head in his hands.
Katara placed both of her hand on his shoulders, "Look at me."
Aang steadied his breathing feeling all of the eyes on him, "I'm sorry…" he apologized softly.
"Why are you apologizing?" Tsunade asked quirking an eyebrow, "From the looks of it…"
"I needed to stop," Aang told her looking into Katara's eyes. She smiled serenely at him.
"Concentrate and breathe," she advised him, "You've been able to stop it every time it happens." She smiled at him then.
Tsunade glanced at Inoichi, "How are you doing?"
"I'm fine, you guys are lucky you're not experiencing his emotions as well. Only the visuals and sounds…" he drifted off, "Do you wish to continue?"
Aang looked at him, "I still have more to tell…but what happens might not be…"
"I'll be alright," he smiled at Aang.
"Then let's start when I wake up. I died there and Katara brought me back with that spirit water that was given to her. Where I stopped was…my spirit mending itself. Nobody needs to see that…"
"We understand," Tsunade nodded to Inoichi to continue.
"Are you ready?" he asked.
"I am," Aang complied holding Katara's hand once again.
Before projecting it onto the screen Inoichi found the spot where Aang was waking up in a metal ship. Aang never stopped him again until just before the Lion Turtle showed up. Faint flashes of blue from his past lives could be seen but nothing was visible or clear enough to hear.
"And here I was excited to see what you really did before the war?" Sokka muttered earning him a punch from both Toph and Suki.
Katara rolled her eyes, "Some things Sokka only Aang needs to know."
A green light suddenly appeared blinding everyone in the room for a brief second then Aang told him to stop. They could see airships coming and they were creating a massive amount of fire.
"What is this?" Neji asked flabbergasted.
"That's the power of our fire benders with the aid of a comet," Sokka spoke up, "Try imagining it as having the power of one hundred suns in each human being."
A fight ensued and Katara cringed seeing Aang getting beaten down by the wicked Fire Lord. Aang's jaw tightened at the memory. Then there was a pause, Aang choked out a gasp remembering the pain of his back slamming into the rock. Inoichi involuntarily flinched feeling the same impact through the bond. Suddenly a multitude of people with glowing eyes flashed before their eyes and both Aang and Inoichi gasped.
"Get out of my body," Aang choked out and immediately Inoichi switched views.
Aang's tattoos and eyes were lit up in a fierce expression. They watched him combine all four elements into a protective shield before chasing off the Fire Lord. His roar echoed around the room.
"You fought like that…even though it's dangerous for you to do so?" Katara asked him stunned at watching the scene unfold.
"I didn't have control," he told her his voice a little strained.
They watched as he moved mountains with a flick of his wrist and summoned fire balls as large as boulders. Then the final moment came to the combining of the four elements as he proclaimed the Fire Lord's ultimate demise. Then suddenly he stopped and his eyes went back to normal.
"Stay out of my head, you don't want to be inside for the next part," Aang advised.
Even with all the power in the world, you are still weak! The Fire Lord shouted.
Aang anticipated his move and confined his arms and legs to the earth. He placed his hands over the Fire Lord's heart and mind and waited.
"Are you sure?" Katara asked.
"She needs to know…" Aang told her sadly.
A second later both Aang and the Fire Lord were lit up in white and orange. As the darker color began taking over Aang's breathing rapidly grew worse and worse.
Toph drew up her rod and placed it around Aang's torso, "Get a grip this isn't happening now," she whispered fiercely, pulling the rod tight around his chest.
Right before Aang's body was taken over they heard a deep booming voice then Aang's body glowed white conquering the orange. An audible sigh was heard around the room and the tension lessened. After confirming that the Fire Lord wasn't killed Aang told Inoichi to stop.
The wall went back to its normal color as Inoichi removed his hand and the chakra sensor from his finger. Nobody spoke for a few minutes as they waited to see what Tsunade would say.
"I guess they were right," she finally said handing the scroll to Katara. She opened it and read:
Hokage-sama,
I know this is not a traditional report but during one of our sessions Lord Chiriko received a revelation. He was told by Kami to expect help from a great warrior. This person would not be known in this world but to trust him absolutely. He holds a special spirit that allows him control of the worldly elements but he is not a power seeking being. Should one such man cross your path, keep him close.
Monk Rishu
Temple of Fire
Katara read it out loud then rolled the scroll back up, "I guess the only thing they didn't tell you was what he looked like."
Tsunade nodded, "Which is why I needed the proof. With something as…delicate as the Akatsuki I need to know who I can trust and who I cannot."
"Well I hope you have it, I know that our war may have seemed petty or easy but it was the most difficult thing we've ever experienced," Sokka told her.
"I have no doubt that what you did was a simple task…especially considering your ages. Aang you were twelve when this all happened correct?" Tsunade asked.
"Yes I was, Toph and I are the same age. Katara is two years older than us and Sokka and Suki are 4 years older," he answered her.
"If I could be so bold as to ask for a sparring match with each of these noble warriors, it would be an honor," Lee saluted to Aang and his friends.
They chuckled.
"Only you would have that much energy," Tenten commented sighing.
"Lee's youthful power is nothing to be ashamed of Tenten," Guy smiled at her.
Neji rolled his eyes, "Aside from Lee's over-zealous comment I too would like to spar."
Just then three figures burst through the door.
"Tsunade what is the meaning of this?" Hotaru demanded.
Tsunade's eyes grew narrow in disgust as she saw who accompanied the two advisors, "Danzo…" she cursed under her breath.