Chapter 36
Ty Jun's men were courteous enough to provide Kyoshi with a spare uniform. It was a bit small for her size, but as it was not too uncomfortable so Kyoshi decided to make the most of it. After washing her face and making sure her fans were still with her, Kyoshi stepped out into the main Fire Nation base, a few passing soldiers giving her a short nod as she exited the tent.
Hopefully Adachi and Ty Jun have started interrogating those prisoners, she thought, wandering towards the General's tent. Although slightly larger than the surrounding dwellings, Ty Jun's tent was no more extravagant than any other. The only indication that it was his besides its size was the two armor clad Firebenders standing guard outside, the two not even flinching as Kyoshi approached. Inside, Kyoshi found Ty Jun, Adachi, and two other officers pouring over a map of the surrounding territory, none of them looking up as she entered.
"I'm not disturbing anything, am I?" she asked to get their attention.
"Not at all," Ty Jun replied, his voice lacking much of the mirth it usually had. "We were just trying to figure out where the Earthbenders could have come from." Kyoshi nodded and took a seat across from the general. "Now then, the closest stretch of land would be here," Ty Jun pointed to a small area of Earth Kingdom territory. "They could easily make the trip in a day or two from there."
"But there are no ports around that area," one of the other officers countered. "Even a small group would have difficulty launching a boat from there."
"They could always use Earthbending to create and artificial port," Kyoshi offered. "I've never seen it done, but my master told me that it's possible."
"Maybe," Ty Jun mused. "Although, rebels control the port of Taizhou," he traced his finger down to the designated city. "It might have taken them a bit longer, but they could have easily sailed from there."
"I suppose we won't know unless we question the prisoners or find out what kind of ships they arrived in," the second officer said before looking to Adachi. "Prince Adachi, have your men found anything?"
"No sir," Adachi replied. "I've expanded out search around the entire island; they may have docked somewhere and then wandered around until they found a good spot for an ambush."
"That might have taken time," Ty Jun countered. "And I doubt that ten Earthbenders could stay hidden from an island filled with soldiers for too long."
"True." Adachi said with a nod. There was a pause before Kyoshi spoke again.
"Have they said anything about why they are here?" she asked.
"No, we haven't gotten around to questioning them," Ty Jun said with a sigh. "Although, we could use your help. You told me at one point that Earthbenders are better at telling when someone's lying, is that correct?"
"Yes," Kyoshi looked down at the map for a moment. "At least, I've always had a knack for telling when people are hiding something from me… probably why I'm such a terrible liar."
"That's what we'll have to go for, then," Ty Jun said. "We'll bring a few of our prisoners in for questioning, and you can tell if they're being honest with us or not. Once we get the information we need, we can better prepare for whatever is ahead of us." Kyoshi nodded, looking first to Adachi and then to Ty Jun as the general continued. "I'll be in charge of the interrogations. Adachi, I want you to bring me however many prisoners we need. In the meantime, you all have your orders; see to it that they are carried out." The officers saluted before they and Adachi filed out of the tent, leaving Kyoshi alone with Ty Jun.
"After so many years of preparing for some kind of attack," Ty Jun said, standing up and walking over to a corner of the tent. "Now it's finally come, and I was almost caught off guard."
"We don't know for sure what's going on," Kyoshi replied. "They could have just been raiders looking for goods to steal; maybe they thought that attacking some Fire Nation soldiers would win them a bit of prestige."
"Maybe… but raiders tend to be followed by larger, better organized forces." Ty Jun looked over at Kyoshi. "I'm not sure you know this, but factions are starting to develop within the Earth Kingdom; some of the merchants and suppliers that run through this part of the Fire Nation have said there's at least three different forces contending for Xiaoxi alone."
"I… I might have heard something like that," Kyoshi fiddled with the hem of her shirt. "I'll deal with them when I leave the Fire Nation."
"I didn't doubt that for a second, but I'm still uneasy." Ty Jun looked away. "The Earth Kingdom is on the brink of civil war. Even if you do intervene, tensions might boil over and the Fire Nation might have to fight off its own series of revolts and invasions." Kyoshi opened her mouth to speak, but Ty Jun cut her off. "Don't think that we're too united to fall into such madness. The Fire Lord keeps the people of this nation under control, sure enough, but there are old grudges and feuds that run back to long before even the Dragon Kings were in power. All they need is the right excuse, and they'll be at each other's throats in an instant."
"You don't know that," Kyoshi countered. "The Fire Nation did not implode when Akhlut invaded; who's to say that it will when some Earthbenders try a similar invasion." There was a pause before Ty Jun chuckled.
"I admire your optimism, Kyoshi," he said. "But not all attacks are with weapons and Bending." Kyoshi had no time to say anything before Adachi returned, followed by two other soldiers and one of the Earthbenders.
"We have the first prisoner," Adachi said, stepping aside as the soldiers brought the man forward and forced him to the ground. Ty Jun stepped forward, leaning in to inspect the man closely.
"Tell me, friend," Ty Jun said. "What is it that you hoped to achieve by attacking a Fire Nation military base?" the man said nothing, instead looking past Ty Jun towards Kyoshi. She returned his gaze with a glare, which was enough to get the man to focus back on Ty Jun.
"Was that too hard of a question?" Ty Jun asked. "Let me try another one. Where did you hide the boats you and your friends arrived in?"
"In a cove on the north end of the island." The man said, his voice unusually calm. "We just walked down the beach until we spotted some Fire Nation soldiers." Ty Jun and Adachi looked to Kyoshi.
"He's not lying, if that's what you were wondering," she replied after a brief pause. Ty Jun nodded and turned back to the prisoner.
"Now, since you seem willing to talk, why don't you answer my first question? What are you and your comrades doing here?"
"Looking for her," the man nodded towards Kyoshi. Kyoshi took a small step back in surprise as the man continued. "Some Fire Nation noble arrived and asked us to get the Avatar's attention. That's all I know."
"You're lying!" Adachi cried, grabbing the man by his collar. "No Fire Nation noble would betray the nation so easily!"
"Actually, I can think of a few who would," Ty Jun said, but Adachi ignored him.
"Why are you really here?" Adachi demanded.
"I told you!" the man countered. "Some Fire Nation noble arrived in Taizhou, and after that our leader sent me and the others to 'find the Avatar' as he put it." Adachi's grip tightened around the man's collar, but before he could say anything Kyoshi stepped forward and placed a hand on his shoulder.
"He's telling the truth," Kyoshi said. "Calm down, Adachi, before you hurt someone." There was a long pause before Adachi relented, releasing the man and giving a long sigh.
"I just… I just don't believe it," he said. "A traitor? It just doesn't make any sense. My father has done his best to treat the nobility with respect, and this is how they thank him?"
"I know it doesn't make much sense," Kyoshi said. "But there's still more that we need to find out before we can start casting blame upon one person or another." Adachi nodded, giving Kyoshi a cue to step back and allow Ty Jun to continue.
"So, you don't know the name of the noble who… 'hired' you?" the man shook his head. "Next best thing, then; who is your leader?"
"Some southerner," the man said. "He picked some of us up outside Omashu a few years ago, when all that news of the Avatar returning was everywhere. We took Taizhou after that and we've been doing rather well."
"That's all well and good," Ty Jun said, eyes narrowing. "But your leader can't always be a total enigma. Does he have a name?" there was a pause before the man spoke.
"He calls himself Jian Feng. Not sure if that's his real name or not, but that's what he said." Every muscle in Kyoshi's body tightened, her hands balling up into fists. The memory of her first encounter with the man threatened to return, but her rising anger quickly pushed that out of the way.
"Where is he?" she growled, pushing past Adachi and kneeling so she was eye to eye with the man. "Where is Jian Feng?"
"Taizhou, as far as I know," the man said. Good enough for me. Kyoshi rose and brushed past the Fire Nation soldiers, heading back towards her tent.
Jian Feng was looking for her; that fact did not surprise her, but for once she knew where he was. Now was the perfect time to face him, to bring him to justice for what he had done to her and to the Earth Kingdom. Bringing down a rebellion would only make the man's defeat all the more satisfying.
I'll need a ship, she thought as she reentered her tent, scrounging around for anything of use. I'll ask Ty Jun to drop me off near the city. Then I can capture Jian Feng and bring him before the Fire Lord; hopefully then he'll receive what's coming to him.
"Kyoshi!" Kyoshi did not look up as Adachi entered her tent. "We didn't finish the interrogation-"
"Why bother? I have everything I need." She replied, her voice low. "Jian Feng is out there. He's the man responsible for the attack on my family, and he's the one who started the rebellions in the Earth Kingdom. I catch him, and hopefully this will die down."
"Sure, I understand that," Adachi said, massaging the back of his head. "But there's still more information we don't have; who's the traitor among the nobility? How strong is this Jian Feng's force? We could be running right into an ambush unless we take a step back and prepare."
"You won't be doing anything," Kyoshi said, turning to face Adachi. "I'm going by myself to capture Jian Feng. You and Ty Jun can handle the traitor."
"Kyoshi, this is insane!" Adachi hissed. "You can't go up against an entire rebel force by yourself. You'll get killed."
"I'm the Avatar," Kyoshi countered, her voice rising. "I've defeated armies in the past-"
"When your past lives were fully realized Avatars. You haven't even finished half of your training."
"So? I've taken on strong enough foes already. Besides, Jian Feng wants me for himself; as far as I know, it will come down to a one on one fight between me and him." Kyoshi closed her eyes and lowered her head. "And hopefully no one else will get hurt. I… I can't let that happen again."
"Kyoshi, I can't let you do this," Adachi took a step towards her. "If you do go by yourself, you have a very good chance at losing. And what will happen then? The world is still struggling from Kuruk's death; do you really want to burden it with your own death?"
"I'll be fine, Adachi." Kyoshi countered. "Why are you still arguing with me about this? Don't you have a traitor to catch?"
"I'm trying to keep you from doing something stupid."
"Stupid?" Kyoshi repeated. "I know what I'm doing here. I'm not trying to topple an entire government by myself; this is between Jian Feng and me, no one else! I drag more people in, that just more guilt for if they get hurt under my watch."
"I understand that, but think for a moment; Jian Feng has a large group of rebels at his disposal, and I doubt he'd be willing to fight fairly against you-"
"He's after me for some revenge scheme. He'll want me for himself."
"Are you sure?" now Adachi's voice was rising. "Are you going to trust a man that you have already stated you hate?"
"It seems like a better option than trusting those that I know to be traitors." Kyoshi snapped. "Who am I supposed to go to? Back to the Fire Nation? Since one of your own already proved how trustworthy he is, I could be walking right into the traitor's hands. That would be just as bad as if I died battling Jian Feng."
"That's why we need to find the traitor now. Then we can find out what he knows and capture Jian Feng before he makes another attack."
"But if we capture Jian Feng now, we can disrupt the traitor's plans before they happen." Kyoshi advanced on Adachi, her hands balled up.
"And what if the traitor has another plan should Jian Feng be captured?" Adachi asked. "It seems more like you're just diving into this attack to take revenge, not to actually protect the Fire Nation."
"Are you accusing me of placing my personal desires over the needs of the world?!" Kyoshi cried. "Jian Feng is a dangerous man, and he will attack the Fire Nation whether or not there is a traitor helping him. I need to stop him now before he gets that chance!"
"But if there is a traitor in the Fire Nation, it could bring the whole nation to ruin! Do you think you can handle two civil wars?"
"I defeat Jian Feng, there will be only one civil war," Kyoshi turned away. "I need to do this, Adachi; I've been distracted for too long-"
"Distracted? As far as I know, you were receiving training. Does that count as a distraction now?"
"Of course not."
"So then what distracted you? My family? Is that why you're running off to handle this threat in the Earth Kingdom while a traitor runs loose in the Fire Nation?"
"Adachi, will you just SHUT UP AND LET ME DO MY JOB?!" Kyoshi screamed, whipping around to face Adachi. Her breath came out in ragged snorts, her eyes blazing with fury. "I'm supposed to protect the balance of the world, not just the Fire Nation or the Earth Kingdom. This is my best chance of ending this madness now and showing the world that the Avatar has not abandoned them. What would you have me do? Chase traitors around the Fire Nation while mothers and daughters are raped and stabbed to death because of that… that monster?!"
Kyoshi's hands quivered, hints of tears welling in her eyes as she continued. "I swore that I would never let that happen again. That's why I left my home instead of staying like a dutiful daughter. I abandoned everything so that others wouldn't have to suffer, and what do I have to show for it? Nothing! But now I have a chance to make something of it, and… I-I-I can't let that chance escape me." There was a long pause, Kyoshi's glare softening as she tried her best to hold herself together.
"Please, Adachi… I need to do this." She whispered, looking down at the floor. Her voiced ached from shouting, but she paid no attention to the pain. She tried to release some of the tension in her hands, but they refused to budge.
"Alright," Adachi said, his voice low as he nodded. "If that's how you see things, fine."
"Adachi, please." She reached out to him. "I didn't mean to-"
"No, it's fine," Adachi raised a hand to stop her. "You said what you wanted to say, and I'll respect that. I'm not going to stop you." With that he exited the tent, Kyoshi following him to the entrance and watching him disappear into the dark. Biting back a sob, Kyoshi closed the fold of the tent and collapsed, resting her arms on her knees as she stared off into space.
What are you willing to lose for the sake of your wrath? Kuruk's words returned to her mind. Was this what he meant, that her desire to bring Jian Feng to justice would drive away her friends? Sun understood, Mai-Lin was still in the dark, and Adachi… Well, he knew now. And he might have resented her for choosing the Earth Kingdom over his own people. And where would that leave her? Alone on some speck of rock, thousands of miles from home?
… No. I need to stay strong. She thought, wiping away tears and calming her energy. I must face Jian Feng, and I'll end this once and for all. Adachi may not like it, but he at least claims to understand. She took one last breath before standing, adjusting her clothes before stepping out into the camp. A few soldiers had been watching her tents, and they did their best to appear distracted as she walked back to Ty Jun's tent. Once more the guards did nothing to stop her, and when she entered she saw that the prisoner had been taken away.
"Where's the prisoner?" she asked.
"With the others," Ty Jun replied. "He gave us all the information we needed, now we just need to act on it. You left in a bit of a hurry so perhaps you have a plan?"
"Yes," Kyoshi said, straightening her posture. "I need a ship to take me to the Earth Kingdom. I am going to catch the leader of these mercenaries and bring him to justice." Ty Jun regarded her for a moment, one eyebrow raised.
"Say you do find this man," he said finally. "What's to stop you from killing him?" Kyoshi opened her mouth to speak, but Ty Jun cut her off. "We all could hear your argument with Prince Adachi; we know what this means to you, and what that man has done to you. So answer my question: what's to stop you from killing him?" Kyoshi said nothing, thinking over the question a few times before she came to an answer.
"This attack was against the Fire Nation, not me." She started. "I am willing to set aside my own desires so that the Fire Nation may deal with Jian Feng as an invader and a prisoner of war. However, if I see no possible way for me to return him here, only then will I try to kill him."
"Let's hope you can stand by your word," Ty Jun said. "I'll have a ship prepped to transport you to the Earth Kingdom."
"She won't be going alone," Adachi said as he stepped into the tent behind Kyoshi. "I'm going with her."
"What?" Kyoshi turned to face Adachi. "You don't have to do this, Adachi; I can handle-"
"Jian Feng's attack was on Fire Nation territory," Adachi continued. "It could very well be considered an act of war against our people. As Prince of the Fire Nation, it is my duty to ensure that all threats against the nation are dealt with, and what better way than confronting this mercenary head on?"
"And the traitor?" Ty Jun asked.
"As far as we know, he doesn't know we know about his operation. If you speak with my father, he might be able to rally the nobility and bring down this traitor while we secure his accomplice. Everyone benefits from this." Kyoshi wanted to say more, to try and convince Adachi that his idea was not going to work, but stopped herself. His tone, the look in his eyes; he would not back down from where he stood, even if the Avatar spoke against him.
"You have a point." Ty Jun said. "Alright. You and the Avatar will take a squad or two to secure the mercenary leader, while I return to the capital and alert the Fire Lord of this development." There was a pause before he spoke again.
"Not to sound dramatic, but we stand on a sword's edge tonight; if anything goes wrong, the world stands to lose a lot more than we can possibly imagine."
"We know," Kyoshi said, her voice soft. "We'll bring Jian Feng back, general. I can promise you that, at least."
"Let's hope that you can bring him back alive, but I'll understand if you don't." Ty Jun replied. "Get some rest. Tomorrow looks to be a long day for all of us." Kyoshi and Adachi bowed and exited the tent. The two hesitated for a brief moment at the entrance, as if waiting for the other to speak. When it did not appear that any conversation was forthcoming, they exchanged nods and left in different directions, Kyoshi heading back to her tent to meditate and sleep.
Soon, Kyoshi would have to step forward and face her destiny again. Soon, she would face Jian Feng.
…
It had been a few days since Kyoshi had left, and Miyaki found herself at a loss for what to do. She knew that Kyoshi would have to leave someday, but hearing that she was gone had thrown the princess off balance. It was just so sudden, that the Avatar would just leave like that, and no one was willing to explain to Miyaki why.
Miyaki hated not knowing what was going on.
She had taken to wandering through the palace after her Firebending lessons. At first it was just a way to let off some excess energy, but it soon became a way for Miyaki to gather some information. Servants were chatty creatures, and one of them might let something slip about Kyoshi or whatever had caused her to leave the Fire Nation so soon. She clung to the pillars and the shadows, her small stature helping her greatly in hiding her from sight, and she would wait for any signs or paths to follow.
Today, her snooping had taken her to following one messenger that Minister Honsou used frequently. There was nothing unique about this messenger beyond that fact, but he seemed in a greater hurry today than before. Following him proved to be a bit more challenging than usual, Miyaki having to rush from spot to spot just to keep up to the man, but finally he stopped once he reached the main hall of the palace, Minister Honsou waiting for him.
"News from the barrier islands," the man said, passing Honsou a scroll. "Earth Kingdom mercenaries have attacked the base there, but they were defeated. The Avatar and Prince Adachi have gone after them to see if they can find a potential leader, and Ty Jun has written that he wishes to speak with the Fire Lord."
"Is that so?" Honsou asked, Miyaki watching as he scanned the scroll for a moment. "I'll inform the Fire Lord of this development. In the meantime, message our contacts and see if we can bring the prince back before he does anything detrimental to the Fire Nation."
"Yes sir." The messenger nodded and walked back the way he came, Miyaki pulling in close to the pillar as he walked past. Once the messenger was gone, Miyaki fell in step behind Minister Honsou, keeping out of sight as he approached the entrance to the throne room. Honsou had a brief talk with the guards, who merely saluted before stepping away from their posts.
He dismissed the guards? This must be serious. Miyaki crept forward as Honsou slipped past the doors, making a break to get through before they were shut behind her. Fortunately, everyone else in the room did not see her, and she was able to take up a spot behind a tapestry so she could listen in on the conversation.
"What is it, Honsou?" her father asked.
"Urgent news from the barrier islands, my lord." Honsou said, bowing. "It appears that there's been an attack from Earth Kingdom brigands, and the Avatar has given chase."
"What?" Fire Lord Mitsuo leaned forward. "When was this?"
"A few days ago, apparently, around the time that the Avatar disappeared." Honsou shook his head. "Perhaps she caught wind of the attack and is on her way to fight those responsible." But what about Adachi? Miyaki thought, leaning forward as far as she could to listen better.
"As no one has seen the Avatar since she visited your home, that appears to be the best explanation." Mitsuo leaned back. "Has Ty Jun addressed this issue?"
"I believe that he might, but I am not certain about that," Miyaki raised an eyebrow as Honsou continued. "I have heard rumors, my lord, of those around the court who are not to be trusted. Men whose ambitions have clouded their minds, they seek only to impress and direct you down paths they have chosen for you."
"Are you accusing Ty Jun of treason, Minister Honsou?"
"I am accusing no one, my lord. I cannot make judgments on such rumors, after all. But I do not believe that neglecting these rumors will do our nation any good. Perhaps Ty Jun has planned to deal with these rogues, or maybe he himself has fallen to these manipulators and their schemes, if they do exist." There was a pause before Mitsuo shook his head.
"No, I can't believe that," he said. "Ty Jun has been my friend my whole life. He would not betray me so easily."
"He might not even know he is, my lord," Honsou offered. "A manipulator need not be open with his betrayal; he could hide in the most obvious of sights and allow Ty Jun to carry out his plans in proxy. I advise you, my lord, to exercise caution as you deal with those around you, and even with Ty Jun. Only then will the traitor reveal himself, and we can avoid losing our way." Miyaki looked from Honsou to her father. Why did the minister neglect telling the Fire Lord about the location of Adachi? And Ty Jun being manipulated? That did not make any sense.
Unless… Miyaki took a sharp breath. No… I need more information.
"I will keep your words in mind, Honsou," her father said. "Is that all you wished to tell me?"
"Yes, my lord," Honsou said, bowing. "By your leave." The Fire Lord gave a short nod and Honsou made his way towards the exit. Miyaki once again waited until he had passed before slipping out behind him, scurrying off to the safety of the nearby pillars before he noticed.
If there are traitors in the palace, Miyaki thought. I'll need to be careful… Especially if it's Honsou. She snuck forward to follow the Minister, taking small steps as Kyoshi had taught her. Honsou drifted for a moment, speaking to a few guards before heading towards the front gate. Miyaki continued on, quickening her pace as best she could.
Once they had returned to the main hall, Miyaki ducked behind another pillar. Honsou had been joined by a small group of guards, but that was not the main reason she was hiding.
"Honsou," the voice of General Ty Jun said. "I must speak with the Fire Lord."
"Fire Lord Mitsuo is very busy at the moment," Honsou replied. "Surely you can wait a little longer until he is freed up?"
"This cannot wait," Ty Jun sounded angry, and Miyaki quivered slightly. Ty Jun? Angry? When has that ever happened? "I have information that could doom our nation if it's kept away from the Fire Lord."
"What is this information that is so important?"
"I have reason to believe that there is a traitor in the palace," Ty Jun said, his voice low. "There was an attack on our base. The Earthbenders claimed that they were hired by a Fire Nation noble, but they were unable to identify who it was."
"Oh dear," Honsou replied. "That is a serious matter. How do you know that the Earthbenders were telling the truth?"
"The Avatar was with me; she told me who was lying and who wasn't. She and Prince Adachi are heading to the Earth Kingdom to try and capture the man in charge of the mercenaries."
"You know that the prince was not supposed to be put into too much danger," Honsou hissed. "And you just let him leave?"
"He volunteered." Ty Jun countered. "Now, I've wasted enough time on this already. May I speak with the Fire Lord?"
"He is still busy, but do as you please." There was silence save for Ty Jun's footsteps as he marched past Honsou, Miyaki shifting her position to remain out of sight. As the general left, she began to pour over what she had learned.
A Fire Nation noble had hired the mercenaries to attack the Fire Nation. Honsou had said there were rumors of traitors, but had neglected to mention that Adachi was leaving with the Avatar. Why would he ignore telling her father about her brother's whereabouts? And why would he say to avoid giving too much trust to someone like Ty Jun?
Was he trying to make Ty Jun out to be the traitor? And if he was, what would he stand to gain from it?
Miyaki's brow furrowed. Was Honsou the traitor? There was only one way to find out.
"Honsou!" Miyaki called, stepping out from her cover and into the hallway. The Minister seemed surprised to see her, but quickly regained his composure.
"Princess Miyaki," he said as Miyaki crossed to him. "Shouldn't you be studying?"
"That can wait," she said. "I saw that General Ty Jun has arrived for a visit. Did he say anything about why?"
"He said it was a private matter, between him and the Fire Lord," Honsou replied. "I think it would be best if you did not worry about these matters, Princess." Miyaki had to be careful with how she responded; Honsou was an experienced minister, and it would take some work to get him to admit to some guilt.
"But if I am to have any say in how this nation is to be ruled, wouldn't it be better for me to know of such matters?"
"Perhaps, but your father is still the Fire Lord; he is entitled to keep whatever information he so desires hidden from you." Miyaki frowned for a moment, then decided to change topics.
"Is there any news on Kyoshi?" she asked.
"No, the Avatar has not been seen yet," Honsou said. But you know better, Miyaki thought as he continued. "But I have placed all available guards on the lookout, just in case she decides to return."
"I see." There was a pause before Honsou spoke.
"There is more on your mind, isn't there?" he asked.
"Yes," Miyaki gave a small shiver. "With Kyoshi gone, and Ty Jun asking my father for an audience… I hate to admit it, but I'm nervous. You know many things, Honsou; do you know what's going on?" there was a pause, Honsou looking to his guards before speaking again.
"Rest assured, Miyaki, that everything is well in hand." He said. "Your father is an intelligent ruler, and he would be more than capable of identifying what lies are brought to him."
"Lies?" Miyaki asked, aiming for innocence.
"I will not keep you in the dark, but there are those that would seek to manipulate outcomes in their favor." Honsou continued. "I have done my best to root them out, but they always seem to elude me."
"That's no good. Do you think that they might have something to do with the Avatar's disappearance?"
"Oh, that would be a bit much." Honsou chuckled. "But you do bring up an interesting observation; perhaps there is something linking the possibility of traitors to the Avatar's disappearance. You were close to the Avatar; do you think that perhaps she might have come in contact with someone of lesser virtue?"
"The Avatar? A spy?" Miyaki cried. "I can't believe it! She wouldn't-"
"I'm not accusing the Avatar of anything," Honsou said quickly. "No doubt, she is a virtuous and noble woman. But traitors and spies have ears everywhere; perhaps you were out and spoke of some matter, and a 'passerby' relayed it on to another who then brought it to these traitors. The Avatar could pass along information to the outside world and not even realize it." Miyaki was silent.
"Now you see why we must find the Avatar," Honsou said. "Otherwise, she might be taken by those who would see your father fall, their claims backed by mercenaries and other rebels."
Perhaps now, Miyaki had found her cue.
"If you think mercenaries are involved," Miyaki asked. "Why didn't you keep watch around the barrier islands, in case she tried to reenter the Earth Kingdom?"
"The islands are a long way off," Honsou countered. "It would be hard for me to know if the Avatar was passing through to the Earth Kingdom."
"Don't lie to me Honsou," Miyaki said, her voice going cold. "You've always said you pride yourself on knowing a lot of things. You're in charge of messengers and communications; wouldn't Ty Jun send a letter ahead to inform the Fire Lord of his return? And then wouldn't the Fire Lord be informed if the Avatar did pass through the barrier islands?"
"Perhaps Ty Jun's message has not arrived yet; have you thought of that?" Honsou said, his voice rising slightly. "And any message regarding the Avatar would be passed through me, so I would know if she had been spotted heading towards the Earth Kingdom or not."
"Would you tell my father?"
"Of course I would. My duty is to the Fire Lord and the Fire Nation. I would never back away from my loyalty."
"Then why didn't you tell him that you knew where the Avatar and my brother were?" Honsou blinked in surprise as Miyaki continued. "I heard everything, Minister Honsou. I heard that there was an attack on the barrier islands, I heard that my brother and Kyoshi were pursuing the man responsible, and I saw you not only neglect to mention that, but you accused Ty Jun of being manipulated by some traitor, just as you accused the Avatar of being manipulated." Her eyes narrowed. "What do you really know, Honsou?" there was a long pause, Miyaki looking up at Honsou as she waited for an answer.
"I see you are in to making baseless accusations," Honsou said. "I have no time for this. Guards, escort the princess back to her room until she decides to think rationally." The guards stepped forward to flank Miyaki, but she pushed past them and followed Honsou.
"I saw you, Honsou!" she snapped. "You have the report from the barrier islands; you know what's going on out there. As princess of the Fire Nation, I command you to tell me what you know!"
"I don't know what you are talking about." Honsou said, quickening his pace. "Guards, I told you to take the princess back to her room." Miyaki was about to speak again when the guards took ahold of her arms, yanking her back from pursuing Honsou.
"Let go of me!" she cried, squirming in their grasp. "I'm the princess of the Fire Nation! Let me go!"
"What does that really mean?" Honsou asked. "You do not hold real power here, Princess. You are not but a spoiled child who believes she has true power in her grasp, but there are forces at work that you cannot even begin to fathom."
"You forget, 'Minister'," Miyaki said, closing her hands into fists. "There are other forms of power besides your own." With that she flicked her hands open, two fireballs jumping from her palms and striking the floor at her captors' feet. The guards yelped and jumped back, letting go of Miyaki and allowing her to rush towards Honsou. The minister's pace broke into a run, as he tried to flee the pursuing princess. Several more palace guards stepped out into the hallway, unsure of how to proceed once they saw the full scene.
"Guards! Stop him!" she cried, launching another fireball down the hallway at Honsou. "He is a traitor withholding information from my father!"
"The princess is delusional," Honsou responded, backing up towards the main entrance to the palace. "Restrain her before she harms anyone else!" the guards seemed to respond better to Honsou, advancing as Miyaki skidded to a halt.
"Traitors!" she shouted. "You're all traitors!" she swept her leg out, a wave of fire forcing some of the guards back. Two advanced and released a torrent of flame towards her, but Miyaki strafed away before countering.
Focus, Miyaki, she thought, her inner voice sounding close to Kyoshi's. Honsou is the target, not the guards; just focus and capture him, then get him to confess. Miyaki let loose a series of fireballs, just strong enough to force the opposing Firebenders back. She tried to advance again, but the guards rallied and counter attacked, their Firebending forcing Miyaki to take cover. She could only lean out and make small attacks, not nearly enough to defeat her opponents.
Through all this, she saw Honsou moving around the edge of the fight towards the door. Miyaki's eyes went wide when she realized what the minister was up to; he would sneak out, return to his home, and then later testify against her. And how would she be able to defend herself?
No… I will not let that happen! He is the traitor, and he won't escape! Miyaki took a deep breath, focusing as much of her energy as she could. She needed to break through and attack Honsou. She needed to end this fight.
It was just her and the traitor. All else faded away.
Miyaki leapt out from behind her cover, sweeping her arms around to try and channel her energy forward. With each breath, she could feel a surge of power flowing through her, and it was only with great difficulty that she could keep it held back. The kata she moved into was slower than normal, but the effects on her energy were instantly apparent. Where flames would normally be projected, small sparks began to crackle from her fingertips as she swept her hands forward. The guards halted their attacks, even Honsou was stunned from his flight by the sight of Miyaki. The sparks grew, arching across her fingertips and around her body, but she paid no mind.
It was Miyaki and Honsou. That alone, would be enough.
With a cry, Miyaki thrust her right hand forward, two fingers pointed towards her target. Instantly she was buffeted by a rush of energy, her ears screaming as a clap of thunder boomed around her. The force of the energy flowing from her was enough to shred the sleeve of her robe, but Miyaki gritted her teeth and continued pushing forward. A single bolt arched from her hand towards the guards, the men crying out in fear and ducking as electricity raced over their heads. Honsou dove away at the last second, the bolt impacting the wall before exploding, the entire hall shaking as stone was pulverized by lightning. Debris rained around the combatants, but still Miyaki refused to back down until her energy had been spent.
Miyaki dropped to her knees, panting. The rush of energy was still within her, and she could feel her hands trembling from the experience. I… I did it. She thought, clenching her hands shut to stop their quivering. I shot lightning… No, stay focused! Miyaki shook her head, getting back to her feet before spying Honsou among the settling dust.
He was not injured, but he had been dazed by the attack. He was trying to crawl back to his feet, but he did not get far before Miyaki had rushed to him and pinned him to the floor. "What do you know, Honsou?" she growled. "What are you withholding from my father?"
"You know nothing, child!" Honsou said, trying and failing to get away from Miyaki. The princess snorted before prodding her fingers beneath the minister's chin.
"I know one thing, at least; I was just able to Bend lightning. If you don't tell me what I want to know, I'll show it to you again." She poked Honsou in the throat for emphasis. "I can say you attacked me, tried to take advantage of a poor, defenseless girl, and I just had to react how I did."
"You are delusional if you think you can get away with that," Honsou hissed. "After all I have done to protect the Fire Nation, this is how I am replayed? I wanted to show the Fire Lord that he does not need the Avatar, and that the Fire Nation can prosper without her 'guidance', but no." Honsou again tried to escape, but Miyaki merely pressed her fingers further into Honsou's throat. "No, you had to listen. You had to fall for her charms and her manipulations. And what has that lead you? The prince is chasing after bandits while kowtowing to the whims of an untrained peasant girl." Miyaki's free hand clenched, her eyes growing cold. It would be easy, to channel her energy and end Honsou's life right then and there. The Fire Nation would be rid of a traitor, and lightning would return to the royal family.
Fortunately for the minister, Miyaki was held back from finishing him off.
"Princess Miyaki!" she heard her father call. Miyaki pulled her hands back and stood up, making sure of keep Honsou pinned by her foot. Her father was flanked by several guards, Ty Jun following close behind. "What happened here?"
Shift focus… no need for lightning here.
"Honsou is a traitor and a manipulator," Miyaki replied after a pause. "He has conspired to keep the Avatar away from the Fire Nation and to keep you in his hand. I approached him on this, but there was… resistance." As if on cue, a section of the wall that had been struck by Miyaki's lightning crumbled away. "… I Bent lightning, but that's not important right now."
The Fire Lord was silent for a long while. His face might have appeared stony, but Miyaki sensed a shift. The normal spark in his eyes had dropped, his jaw loosening slightly. He looked first to Honsou, then to Miyaki, and back to the now cowering minister.
"Is this true?" he asked. Several of the guards who had opposed Miyaki nodded fervently, to avoid drawing the Fire Lord's anger. He then turned back to Honsou. "Well, is it?"
"M-my lord," he stammered. "I only wanted to do what was best for the Fire Nation-"
"So you go behind my back and try to alienate one of our greatest allies?!" Mitsuo barked, causing everyone in the room to flinch. "Had you truly cared for the prosperity of the Fire Nation, you would have thought more about the consequences of your actions than about how it would gain you power. You could have spoken to me, but instead you betray my trust?" there was a long pause before the Fire Lord spoke again. "Guards, arrest the traitor. See to it that all that he owns is confiscated." The guards flanking Mitsuo moved forward, Miyaki stepping off Honsou's back as they hauled him to his feet. He attempted to speak, but the guards had dragged him away before he could say more. Miyaki was tempted to follow before Mitsuo spoke again. "Princess Miyaki, a moment."
She hesitated. When had her father spoken to her last? Miyaki shivered and turned to face her father. "Yes?"
Another pause. "Did you really Bend lightning?"
"… Yes, I did." She nodded. "That was how I was able to subdue Honsou and those he had commanded to restrain me." A pause. "I stand by what I did. If you're mad at me, I understand."
"I am not angry at you, Miyaki," the Fire Lord replied. "… If anything, I am angry at myself, for being deceived for so long. But you were able to look past that deception, and you have brought forth a new Bending style." He gave her a smile. He never smiles… "I am proud of you, Miyaki."
Miyaki gave a quick smile. He was proud of her. Her. No sigh, no anger; he was proud of her. Every muscle in her body told her to rush forward and hug her father, but a part of her brain held her back. Still need to focus.
"Thank you, father," she said, still retaining her smile. "Is there anything else I can do?"
"Get some rest." Her father started before noticing her shredded robe. "And perhaps find a way to Bend lightning without destroying your wardrobe."
"Yes father," Miyaki gave a short bow and hurried off, giggling to herself once she was out of sight. She had Bent lightning, caught a traitor, and got her father's approval all in one go. Kyoshi was right; focusing had plenty of advantages, in Bending and beyond.
Won't she be proud to see what I can do? She thought, hurrying back to her room with a smile on her face.
Had this chapter in my mind for a while. It turned out... close to what I had originally envisioned, but eh, there's room for improvement.
I don't own Avatar or its related characters. Reviews, favorites, and follows are very much appreciated, and if I screwed something up please let me know. And if you like this story, be sure to check out Counseling for more stories about Kyoshi and the Kyoshi Rising TvTropes Page (link is on my profile).