Warning: End of chapter is very dark, for me. :)
The mayoral palace has a large courtyard decorated with flowers and trees of all kinds. Along the cleanly paved road, there are about 500 hundred soldiers standing in a formation to greet their important guests. They stood firm, shoulder to shoulder, all evenly distributed into 5 ranks of soldiers. It's an impressive display, splendidly crafted to demonstrate the army's uniformity. Their outfits are made with the finest silk, without a single speck of stain or damage. This impression is useful when demonstrating the wealth and power of the mayor, who has a penchant for embellishing his achievements.
The satomobile stopped in front of the palace's door, parking itself to a position that allows Choman to step directly on the red carpet. The trumpets sounded, and there are even fireworks, signaling the arrival of this Standardized Oil Company representative. A children is even placed near the carpet to give the visitor a bundle of flowers.
"Welcome to the town of Shang!" The mayor cheerfully announced as he walked down the stairs. As this town's most influential man, he wore the most expensive garment he can get his hands on. With the most talented tailors from the capital designing it, he easily outshine everyone below his status. While he might be the richest person here, he will be even richer when he sealed the deal with Standardized Oil Company. Giving them access to the nearest oil field will a good boost to his wealth.
But despite his visually appealing attire, one cannot help but notice his overweighted shape as he bungled down the stairs. His face looked plumped, filled with fat that makes his maneuvers slow and clumsy. Unlike the golden statue outside, which depicted a strong and vigorous man, this gentleman here is the complete opposite. If he was forced to fight someone, he will certainly lose by simply exhausting himself first. But no one here would mock his appearance of course, unless they want their heads to fall off.
"Greetings Mayor Shi Zhang," Choman lacked the emotions that is expected of a greeting. He stepped out the car and onto the red carpet. Every step he took was done to get to a destination, and couldn't care less about the welcome party the mayor worked so hard to implement. He walked past the child, not even taking a look at the bundle of flowers that was meant for him.
"Look at my army!" The mayor said to Choman, expecting a compliment or praise. "My army is strong and they are well dressed, only someone with great talent like me can assemble such an impressive force!" He didn't spare a single moment to praise his achievements. Usually, a host should ask a guest appropriate questions like 'how is the journey?' Anything besides preaching one's own greatness.
Choman couldn't care less, he has seen plenty of Earth Kingdom officials when he was sent to secure more oil fields. Every time he went to a place, the leader will do everything to impress the delegation. Pompous, self important, and the pursue of grandeur all drives these leaders into pretending that they are somehow greater than what they actually are. But he doesn't care about their personality or their meager positions, as long as they are willing to give the company access to the oil, everything will be just fine. And even if they don't want to grant them access to the fields, the United Republic Military can always be called into action, pressuring the regional rulers to comply with the company.
"They are...good." Choman said. But deep down, he looked down on this 'army' Shi Zhang is displaying. They are nothing but ants in front of the mighty United Republic Military. But even so, as long the interests of the company is not undermined, then it shouldn't be much of a problem.
The mayor curved his lips, pleased with Choman's praise. All the hard work and expenses, setting up this marvelous display have finally earned him the recognition of a United Republic citizen! Shi Zhang pat himself on the back, he has done well!
"Let us enter!" Shi Zhang welcomed Choman with the upmost hospitality, pushing the child away since it's clear his use is no longer necessary.
Once they entered, they arrived at a large dining room where they are further greeted by other ministers and officals working in the town of Shang. Most of them are Shi Zhang's trusted men.
The interior of the palace is lavish, with a large rectangular table laid with extraordinary food and culinary that can even captivate the most stingiest taste buds of anyone passing by. As the dancing girls performed on the stages, everyone decided to head for the table.
Choman took a seat on one end of the table, his personal security guards stood by his sides and against the walls. The security guards and their grey uniform didn't need any permission to enter this place. As all the local knew the men from the United Republic must not be obstructed. The mayor along with his attendants and fellow officials all sat down after Choman as a sign of respect.
The mayor clapped his hands, and the nearby musicians begin their wonderful music as the guests begin to eat the food. As the mayor is drowning himself with heavy and potent wine, Choman grew impatient. He was sent to secure a deal, not to entertain the mayor.
Those present bragged about their achievements and birthrights, hoping that they can display themselves favorably in the eyes of the mayor. Here in the town of Shang, getting on the mayor's good side by flattery and embellishing his political career can have good chance of getting a higher position. Which is why pleasing Shi Zhang is almost essential if one wishes to advance their political career to a new height.
"Mr Choman, we are so glad that you have joined us today!" Shi Zhang openly expressed his gratitude as they have been graced by Choman's appearance. "No words can describe how fortunate we are to have the esteemed Standardized Oil Company working with the trading town of Shang! On behalf of my loyal subjects, I thank your company's ceo for deciding to bless our great town!"
Everyone else with the exception of Choman clapped their hands. To these officials, they will receive a substantial income when they hand over that useless oil field to the cooperation. The company promised everyone in the mayor's inner circle a massive amount of compensation. The money generated from those oil refineries will benefit the town of Shang by further enriching the elites. As long as the mayor and everyone else is compensated, it doesn't matter if the oil are extracted by the United Republic.
"Your praise is accepted," Choman said, eyeing the food with disgust. Of course, he cannot openly display that. "The oil extracted from the field will benefit the town and its inhabitants. As long as you sign the contract and accept our company's offerings, wealth and prestige will be yours. But I know you all wanted immediate results, which why I have brought you what you wanted today."
The mayor and the other officials are in awe as they heard those words. They couldn't care less about the low lives in this town. But they knew the United Republic is rich, VERY rich. And Standardized Oil Company is known for accumulating wealth that surpasses almost every Earth Kingdom state, Air Nation and the two water tribes.
Combined
The walking sounds created by the rest of Choman's security guards echoed the room. All of them carried large suit cases, each for the mayor and the individual officials in the room. Obviously, the mayor would receive a larger portion of the cut, which is why his suitcase is larger.
The mayor couldn't believe his eyes as he opened the suit cases, his mouth is wide open just like the other officials. Inside the suitcases were paper bills, stacks full of them. Every one has an image of Avatar Aang printed on one side, and the other, is the Republic city's town hall.
"What is this nonsense!" One of the officals berated Choman. "These are just paper! Where are the golds? You think you can just bribe us with simple paper!"
"Silence!" Shi Zhang commanded. He knew this officals is new, who doesn't even know much about currency about the outside world. What they are looking here is the currency of the United Republic, Yuan. Although they are simply paper bills, their value is equally valuable if not more than the gold and silver of this land. Since a lot of them can be carried at once without feeling much weight, he knew each suitcase has at lease one hundred thousand coins in value. This amount of money, is something most people will never earn in their lifetime. Shi Zhang knew this amount of money is enough to accomplish many things. Buying himself his own airship, an even bigger palace. Who knows, maybe he can even become the next governor of this Earth Kingdom state. Everything in his wildest dream is not attainable.
"We humbly receive your gift," Shi Zhang stood up from his chair and bowed to Choman, who is sipping some wine and not even paying attention to the greedy mayor. "The people of Shang will greatly benefit for this additional fund your company has given us!" The mayor's mood just risen exponentially. All these cash, he wouldn't even know what to do with it.
Another official also stood up and said, "We will use these money to support public projects such as opening new schools and hospitals. And I can assure you that we will even be following the United Republic by example!" He said with a determined voice.
Choman paid no heed to any of them. He signaled one of his attendants to walk over to the mayor. As the man got closer, Shi Zhang can see the contract the man is holding.
Shi Zhang stole another glance at the massive amount of money in front of him, he took out his pen and decided that it's time to fulfill his end of the deal. There is zero downside to this, not to him anyway.
"I, mayor of the prestigious town of Shang," Shi Zhang now pronounced proudly as if he just accomplished another great feat. "Declare that the nearby oil fields will be given to the professional care of the Standardized Oil Company!"
Everyone in the room celebrated this, but Choman however is displeased, the mayor could have just signed the deal and get along with it. He doesn't want to spend another second sitting with these parasites of society bragging about their unfounded greatness.
"I knew that making this choice will bring great joy to the people of this town, who adore me, who voted for me, and who..."
"Just sign it already!" Choman banged the table, catching everyone by surprise. The room immediately went silent, the music and and dancing girls stopped and they all watched the calm and collected Choman lost his temper.
Realizing that he have caused unwanted attention, Choman tidied himself and continued his silence. He even coughed a bit, and used a piece of cloth to clean his spectacles.
Luckily the mayor didn't continue his speech nor did he inquired Choman about his weird bahviour, he finally lifted up the pen and connected the tip with the parchment. Choman watched with anticipation, a few more stroke from the pen and his assignment is done.
Almost there.
Swoosh!
A violent gust of wind barged into the room, knocking over some plates and cups to the floor. Choman hold on to his glasses as this unexpected phenomenon made the mayor lost his pen. Everyone is confused, they opened their eyes before the air currents settled. The room became a mess, and so are their clothing.
Sound of heavy footstep can heard across the room. Standing by the entrance is Temujin, tall and proud. Even without his full suit of lamellar armor, he still looked menacing like a beast that is about to be set loose. To put it simply, he is angry.
"Where is the mayor!" The Khan stated. "I demand he come forth at once!"
Three of the mayor's personal guard rush forward, attempting to bring down the intruder. But Temujin simple stomped on his feet, generating a strong current of air below all three men and thrusted them into the ceiling.
Choman, sensing that this is a strong opponent, instructed his enterprise security to stand by. He remained in his seat as Temujin walked towards the dining table, dark eyes beamed the mayor and officials. All of them are hiding below the table, sticking their heads out rarely to observe what is happening.
"Which one of you is the mayor," Temujin begin. But none of them responded, they are too afraid that the Khan is here to kill the leader. "I said which one!"
Temujin looked at the lavish food on the table, it brings him disgust how the ones in power are eating like kings everyday while the others rot and starve for their sake. Compared to him, these sedentary rulers are no warriors or leaders. They are able to become leaders of this town simply due to birthrights and family wealth. They are nothing more but weak men who has the given power to tell others what to do, but lacked any physical prowess themselves.
With a quiet whimper, Shi Zhang lifted his head above the table. Overcoming his fears, he yelled for the security in the next room. As another door opened, twelve more of the personal guards surged into the area. They are armed with dao, and is attempting to thrust them into Temujin's abdomen.
Blast!
The powerful gust of air slammed itself into half of them, causing them to stop in their paths. The powerful current of air came out from behind Temujin, and Batzorig then came into the room, swinging his mace into all directions. He easily broke the bones of his targets. If he hadn't control his strength properly, he would have splattered all the guard into pieces of flesh.
Coming next inside to aide the airbender, Ganbaatar then charged in and used his round shield to bash the remaining lackeys. The scimitar and shield combo proved to be even more powerful as the Kheshig captain defeated more of the hostiles than Batzorig himself. The Khan only ordered them to show their strength, without killing anyone. Which is why Ganbaatar didn't just slash or hack through his opponents.
Within a few short seconds, the mayor's most trusted bodyguards are all on the ground, unconscious. The last one suffered a terrifying kick by Ganbaatar's heavy boots and dropped to the ground. All of them are still struggling, their agonizing pain and bruises provide no relief despite the fight being already over.
"You almost killed one of them Batzorig," Ganbaatar evaluated. "But you have learnt to control your swing by using restraint, well done."
Batzorig smiled, he went over to the dining table, realizing that there is still food on it. A single roasted hog still remains on a large clay plate. Seeing an opportunity, he got hold of a leg, teared it from the hog's body.
Ripped!
Batzorig enjoyed the hog leg, chewing away the meat and enjoying the wonderful taste.
"Now," Temujin returned everyone's attention to him. He walked over to Shi Zhang and snatched him by his neck, forcing the mayor to sit on the chair. Choman observed the nomad as he poured two glass of wine. One for Temujin and another for Shi Zhang.
The mayor trembled a little as Temujin placed a glass of beverage on the table near him. This whole time he struggled to sit still as Ganbaatar circled around the table like a hungry shark.
"So you are the new mayor," Temujin casually said as he begin to taste the wine. "I was expecting someone that looks more like that repugnant statue outside. Looks like I was wrong."
Batzorig lightly chuckled as he munched on the hog leg, it seems that the new statue the mayor made is a more idealized version of his own body. Something Shi Zhang dreamed of having, but can never attain. Like a fantasy. Even though Batzorig is a little overweight himself, at least he has muscles that contributes to his brute strength. Of all the airbenders in the ranks of Kheshig, most would consider him quite powerful due to this size.
"I am Shi Zhang, mayor of Shang! And...how do you even get in here?"
It took a lot of courage just say that line. Everyone on the scene is too afraid at the sight of the barbarian. Tall, imposing, despite his age Temujin still looked like someone that can easily end a person's life.
"Well, it wasn't that hard to get pass your so called soldiers outside. Now where is he?" Temujin said in a lowered tone. He sipped the wine while standing next to the window, pairing the drink with the good scenery outside. He expects the mayor would give the response he wanted to hear, or else.
"I...I don't know what you are talking about." Shi Zhang said in an attempt to regain his posture. But he suddenly realized that Temujin isn't some official who is higher ranking than him, no, he is just some nobody that came uninvited. "You came into this building, wreck up my home, and you dare make demands on me!" Shi Zhang snapped, finally standing up. He is now surprisingly angered that his lavish banquet is disturbed by some lowlife. "Anyone, regardless if they are peasants of this town or not, must bow before me! Everyone knows that! You have not only disrespected my title, you have even disturbed an important meeting between me and a very important guest!"
The mayor's demonstration of authority brought some confidence back to the other ministers and officials. They all stood up from the ground and support the mayor.
"Everyone knows you are the new mayor, and that they must bow to you," Temujin emptied the glass of wine on the floor. He turned around and walked towards the mayor who is on the other side of the table. "But if you and the other imbeciles in this room have done any research since you are in office, you would know who I am. I bow to no one, not even the last incompetent batch of low lives that is running this place!"
Shi Zhang and the rest of his cabinet are in shocked that Temujin would use such vulgar language to address them. Them, the rulers of this town. Never would they thought that they would be called 'Imbecile' by some man in brown fur clothing.
"Sir!" Suo entered from the back room with a bunch of files, panicking. "We have a situation, there is-"
He stopped halfway as he realized the presence of the three Kheshig men, acting boldly in front of this town's highest ranking officials. Ganbaatar's attention now focused on Suo. The Kheshig swung his scimitar around, scaring the guard captain to his wits.
Suo held his breathing, and walked nervously next to the mayor with some documents. They are notes written by the previous mayor, which Suo has taken from one of the drawers which the new mayor never checked . Shi Zhang read through all of it. His eyes widened with shock as he started to remember something.
"You are those bison people!" Shi Zhang exclaimed. He now realized what he has done, he attracted a wolf into a sheep pen. "And you not the monks." He now realized that those arrows on the men are grey, not blue...
"Oh yes," Temujin confirmed, but without any joy. His gloomy expression is now even more apparent. "I assume you have seen one our own lately? Hmm?" The Khan knew this would happen, he knew it was the mayor and his pathetic goons who are responsible for kidnapping Jargal. While he doesn't what was the intention, he will make sure this is the last time this town crosses him and his people. If this was some random town, Temujin would have singlehandedly overwhelm all the defenses, and torture the one in charge to reveal where Jargal is being imprisoned. But not this town, this trading town is also a source of income for them. While it is imperative that they retrieve their Kheshig, Temujin hope that they can still use this place to trade for goods and services.
Shi Zhang sweat profusely. This is embarrassing for his own image. Choman is watching the scene, and if he doesn't salvage this, his reputation with the United Republic might soar.
"You know Shi Zhang, the last mayor is also an incompetent fool that lusts after gold and women, but you." Temujin pointed his finger at the mayor, knowing that this man has committed a great crime. "You are new and yet you have already done what the last mayor couldn't do in his entire lifetime! Accruing my wrath!"
"Yeah!" Batzorig muffled through his mouthful of meat. "Release Jargal now! Or we go angry!" His language is rough and simple, but the message is clear. If Jargal was not released, the mayor will get a payback.
Ganbaatar is behind Shi Zhang, looking at his every move. He held the scimitar near the officials, letting them know he can easily strike them down. These officals, full of power, yet they can only tell others to fight their wars for him. In Ganbaatar's eyes, they are truly pathetic.
"I have four demands for you!" Temujin slammed the table, almost making Choman dropping his own spectacles. "First, you must release my warrior and his bison. Second, you must continue to allow my people to trade in this town. Third, those new taxes you have imposed on everyone entering this town, get rid of them. And finally, fourth, I have some bandits I would want to get rid off. I will hand them over to your soldiers. Kill them, throw them behind the bars, I couldn't care any less. Fulfill all of these, and I will pretend none of this mess ever happened, and I will forgive your insolence."
"What!" Shi Zhang exclaimed. "I am the mayor of this town, you can't just coerce me into doing your bidding!" Underneath the table, he secretly made a hand signal for Suo to see. The guard captain knew that the order is to rally all the patrols to here. He took the opportunity when Temujin and his men are focusing on the mayor, and he slipped out of their sight through the back door. "I refuse to accept your unreasonable demands! This is my town, my rule! So I will only be giving you back the prisoner in my custody, that's it. And from now on, you and your people are barred from entering this great town!"
"Absolutely not!" Temujin roared at Shi Zhang, thundering. "You must return the bison too!" This conversation is dragging on for too long, it seems that the new mayor has more spine then he has originally anticipated. But no matter, a few more threats should do the trick. He was disgusted when the mayor revealed the reason for Jargal's arrest. Through the negotiation, he got words that the guards noticed that Jargal carried weapons, so they apprehended him when he wasn't on the bison. As for Jargal's sky bison, the mayor was planning to send it to the capital as a gift to the governor. But Temujin knew the real intention is to take the bison away.
"But's it's just an animal! I will release the human!" Shi Zhang said in indignation. "There are plenty of sky bisons in this world. The Air-nomads have many, you have many. What's the difference if you lose just one? You can just breed more like cattle can't you?"
"My people revered the sky bisons, to which we own our lives, dignity and strength to them." Temujin narrowed his eyes as he looked down on this petty bureaucrat. "If I turn my back on that bison you have captured, how can I call myself a true Kheshig! How can I face the rest of the bison herd, knowing I cannot rescue help one their own when they saved my entire people from them!" He pointed his finger at Tufei.
"They are just mindless beasts!" Shi Zhang tried to get his words through the nomad's head. "Your people's unhealthy worship of some flying cow is pitiful! I suggest you abandon your barbaric beliefs and become more civilized."
This only made Temujin even more angered. The mayor doesn't know why the Kheshig has such a relentless commitment towards mere livestocks. It seems that dismissing the Kheshig's culture only drive Temujin to be even more staunched in getting that one bisons back.
"And also, I will not give in to the rest of your demands! I as the mayor of Shang, will no longer allow heathens like you to ever enter this great town. Take your man away, and never return!" Shi Zhang stated firmly. He met Temujin with a stern expression, to which the Khan responded with long exasperation.
"Bring them in Ganbaatar." Temujin requested in a settled tone. The earlier shouting match did tired his lungs, and now he needsd some rest.
Ganbaatar returned. And he brought back more Kheshig men into the room. Choman's security team readied themselves in case the Kheshig tries anything funny. Even though Temujin's conflict is only with the local authority, they can sense hostility among the Kheshig. Choman knows this, he can tell that their own presence are unwanted. The tall men in lamellar armor and grey arrow tattoos cast suspicious glances at the 'collies'. And because all the security team are non-benders, Choman is internally concerned with the unexpected development. But still, he needed the mayor to sign the deal.
It was only after they brought all the prisoners into the room, did Choman widened his eyes. He dropped his formal and serious expression and noticed the identity of one of the prisoner, Wuli. The pilot captain is not a stranger, he knows this man, even if Wuli is not familiar with Choman. He knew Wuli is close friend of the Standardized Oil Company's heiress.
Right now, Wuli and his pilots are held with the acolytes of Vaatu, who still have their hands entrapped in oil filled jars that discourages their fire-bending.
"Barbarian king, what is the meaning of this!Shi Zhang yelped. He is greatly alarmed by the fact that these people have the audacity to kidnap United Republic soldiers operating in the Earth Kingdom. They even brought members of a dangerous cult/bandit organization here. "Explain yourself!"
"Well, you see Shi Zhang." Temujin walked around the room as he begins his little lecture. "It's no secret that there are dealings between the United Republic and the acolytes of Vaatu. After all, those collies in the west do harbor those low lives even when nations around the world tries to suppress their foolish ideology. Of course, companies such as Future Industries jump at opportunities to sell their weapons to anyone, including bandits."
Tufei is persistent, struggling to get free, but a Kheshig warrior curved his blade around the neck. Thus stopping the bandit from moving. This is done while everyone in the room is watching them.
Wuli seems to be trying to speak something, but his mouth is completely muted by the piece of cloth tied around his head. Choman and his security guards didn't act immediately, they simply observe the situation.
"Now all of you might be thinking, why are these spineless men from that colony our prisoners?" Temujin now focused his attention on Choman.
"They were working with the cult, that's all!" Ganbaatar yelled across the room. "The pilots and firebenders were working together to wipe us all out! Those biplanes came out of nowhere, and made an unprovoked attack while the bandits sat right next to the pilots!" The other Kheshig warriors all chattered in agreement. Lei stood silently as he noticed that Choman got up from his seat, calmly walking towards Temujin. Every stepping sound his shoes emitted a cold hard sound as it tapped on the floor.
"What a bold allegation, very interesting story," Choman begin, he looked at the pilots in their pathetic state. How shameful were they to be fallen into the hands of primitive folks. "And why were these so called 'cultists' working with the pilots of the United Republic? What motivation does captain Wuli and his men have that would drive them to target you and your people? From what I am seeing here, I think there is a simple misunderstanding."
Since the Standardized Oil Conpany have many operations on mainland Earth Republic, they naturally have a good understanding about certain obstacles that challenges their access to resources. A certain group of guerrillas have often attacked their oil refineries, scaring the workers away with their barbaric Earth bending. Since the company is very valuable to the United Republic, the military was often brought in to safeguard these oil facilities as well as destroy any entities that would undermine United Republic interests. Choman has been working for the company over many years. He became a master negotiator, if he can bait the states into handing over the oil fields, he can always pressure them. Naturally, he would also develop a good insight into various military operations the United Forces would conduct to root out any threats.
"If I am not mistaken, these pilots were sent to eliminate rebels that are known for targeting our facilities." Choman pointed at the pilots, who are all nodding quickly to affirm Choman's deduction. "I doubt they would ever waste their time on some nobodies like you. The destruction of your people would serve no purpose to the greater United Republic." He completely downplayed the incident, as of the idea of the pilots working with the acolytes itself is impossible.
Temujin rolled his eyes. People from the United Republic often loves to look down on others, but that is as expected. However, as easy as it is to just strangle Choman with one hand, he can't just kill him, that will actually attract the United Republic to act, officially AND militarily.
"As for the accusations that the forces of the United Republic are working with bandits, I think you have forgotten what our nation represents" Choman than walked near the bandits, looking at their tattered clothing. "The United Republic is a beacon of hope for the world, how can you possibly assume we would associate ourselves with evil people?"
Ganbaatar wanted to chop that man into pieces, but the Khan's gaze prevented him from doing so. Choman is untouchable in this town, he is considered a high value person, killing him would definitely bite the Kheshig in the future. Regardless of how much the Kheshig hate the United Republic, they need to prioritize what they are here for.
"So Shi Zhang, you still don't want to release that bison?" Temujin asked once again. "All I am asking you is revert your policies back to what the old mayor had implemented. Let my people continue to trade here and get rid of those taxes."
Shi Zhang shook his head, signaling his unwillingness. "You may be a fool whose only knowledge is to threaten me with brute force! Don't forget, my uncle is the governor of this state!" He walked over to a wall, where an exquisite vase is on display. The face of the governor painted on it. "I have powerful backing, wealth and connections, something that you don't."
"Well that is precisely why a fatso like you is the mayor!" Temujin roared. "With all these advantages in place, it's no wonder that a town with election would still manage to get a venal man like you in charge! In fact, it's probably now even easier for nepotist like you to be given power!"
Temujin twirled his hands to envelope the vase into a ball of air and brought it to him. Upon closer inspection, the vase looked VERY expensive. It would be bad if something were to happen to it.
"Last chance, mayor."
Shi Zhang still would not budge, he does not believe Temujin would drop the vase.
"You lowly peasant, my town can still function without your people!"
And with that response, the Khan lost his patient. Temujin suspended his airbending. With the help of gravity the vase naturally made its way to the floor. It shattered into pieces, all the elaborate design and pottering has gone to waste. The whole room dropped silent, it's as if the broken vase finally ended any means of negotiation.
"Ganbaatar, we are leaving this corrupted dump!" Temujin ordered as he faced the exit. "Bring the prisoners, we will dispose them elsewhere."
"Hold," Choman ordered. Temujin stopped, he secretly smiled to himself. They took the bait.
"Apologies to my rudeness, but it seems that you these prisoners you are talking about also includes Wuli and his pilots."
Temujin turned around with renewed confidence , this time, Shi Zhang WILL accept all the demands. "Is there a problem, little guy."
The Kheshig men snickered, but Lei remains vigilant. He knew Choman is up to something, and it is not good, not for his own conscience anyway.
Choman's security guards wanted to act, but without orders they cannot even address this apparent insult. Choman himself however, did not allow Temujin's remark to rattle him. To him, name callings are just as easy to ignore as the polluted air in Republic city.
"Accept his demands," Choman said to Shi Zhang. "Trust me, my company's ceo would be very glad that you saved those pilots. The possession of the local oil field can wait, I wish all these pilots are handed over to me."
Shi Zhang was dumbfounded. The mayor and his officials isn't sure what to do, they don't want to argue with Choman, fearing it may endanger the exchange of oil field. No exchange of oil field, no money. While Suo is out there calling all the troops to gather here, there is no guarantee that it would be enough to fight Temujin.
"But...but." Shi Zhang wishes to voice his objection.
"Since I am a citizen of the United Republic, I feel it is my responsibility that Wuli and his pilots return safety to our nation." Choman said. "The works of the founding fathers and Avatar Korra to guide the Earth Republic to a brighter future will continue as we honor their everlasting vestiges. So, I believe it is in the interests of all three parties that the mayor accept these demands."
They don't why, but the Kheshigs felt every word Choman spit out of his mouth irritates them to a great degree. Maybe it's because of it was they who have caused the Earth Kingdom to be divided, or maybe their superiority complex always go unchecked, even if they are outside their 'nation'. But right now, at least they knew Choman's words have a direct effect on the local officials.
Shi Zhang can only comply, he bowed to Choman again, and decided to drew up a decree that will fulfill every request the Kheshig have.
The moment Shi Zhang finished his writing, Temujin snatched the decree and examined it thoroughly. He knew some people would play tricks in words.
"The dog has served its master well," Temujin said to Shi Zhang, belittling him. And just like that, Jargal and his bison is officially free. The Kheshig is still allowed into town, and the taxes are gone. Hopefully.
"See, that wasn't so hard is it?" Choman assured Shi Zhang. "All is well and ends well."
The security guards of Choman begin to check on Wuli following the prisoner exchange.
The disheartened mayor looked again at the massive sum of money. While his pride has been wounded by giving in to the Kheshig's demand, he at least got the bribe he has been hoping for.
"We will take our leave, seeing that there is nothing here for me to do." Temujin is pleased with this outcome. He rescued Jargal and the bison, while narrowly secured their future trading rights to this town. As much as it is easy to just beat up the mayor and his pathetic 'army', he need to prioritize the needs of his own people over his impulses. As nomads, vital resources like medicines and materials for their weapons can be hard to come by. Which is why Temujin wishes to still continue to trade with this town despite the contempt of the new administration.
All they need to do now to walk themselves to the local jail to retrieve Jargal and the bison, while also hand the bandits over to the guards. Temujin was unfortunately unable to allow Lei to take away the pilots away, since Wuli and the others do serve as a good bargaining chip.
Temujin stopped at the exit to the corridor, he has completely forgotten that the guerrilla fighter is still here. And since Wuli and the other pilots are now handed over to Choman, it's only a matter of time the beans will be spilled. He turned around, and saw what is about to unfold.
Shi Zhang picked up the contract, which miraculously is still intact. He placed it on the table, and decided to finally sign the deal, which will allow the Standardize Oil Company to extract the oil nearby.
But before he can do that, his pen was blocked by a hand. It covered a specific area on the paper, preventing Shi Zhang from signing it.
The mayor looked up, now annoyed. "I thought you nomads have already-"
"You are a traitor to your people!" The person berated in a disgusted tone. "Giving up your natural resources to the United Republic when you could have use it to improve your own people's lives!"
It wasn't a Kheshig, and Choman noticed that the man is fully concealed. Deciphering the unimpressed tone of this stranger, he can feel a sense of familiarity.
Wuli's mouth piece is finally removed, he cried out loud, making sure everyone can hear.
"He is a guerrilla, the one we are sent to fight!"
Ganbaatar knew this bad, if only Lei hadn't boldly walked towards the mayor and attract attention. The mayor and his men may be hesitant to fight the Kheshig, but as for Lei, what protection does he have. He knew Temujin can't just declare that the guerrilla is with the Kheshig, which will spell trouble when the United Republic finds out.
The mayor and the other officials backed away from Lei, who now threw away his disguises. Choman was also surprised when he saw the guerrilla, all dressed in the iconic uniform. They are the Standardize Oil Company's greatest headache, and a very high value target for the United Republic's military. They are-
Lei pulled out his dadao, and thrusted it into the piece of contract, puncturing the table through the thin parchment. His face is very determined, and Temujin doesn't even know what to say about this other than the guerrilla have foolishly exposed himself.
"You are working with him!" Choman pointed at the Kheshig, demanding answers from Temujin. But before the Khan can even offer a good rebuttal, Lei intervened.
"False, none of them have any idea who I actually am. I simply my used them to get into here, and they are foolish enough to allow my trespass into this town."
"You bastard!" Batzorig wanted to attack Lei, but Ganbaatar immediately stopped him. The captain knew what Lei is trying to do, he wanted to make it appear that none of this is the Kheshig's fault. But that would mean Lei will sacrifice himself, accepting all responsibility.
Ganbaatar thought to himself. "Lei, you stubborn Earth bender!"
"Lies, these nomads definitely know!" Wuli yelled again. "They are working together!"
"Alright, which outlaw groups do you belong to, you peasant?" Shi Zhang regained his composure as he is now next to Choman's scrutiny guards. "Yellow necks? Fifth Nation pirates? What are you?"
And like that, Lei had enough. He used his hands to pull out a green object from his pocket. A single piece of material that is long and soft. He then tied it around his neck. It functions both as a symbol and a trademark. And like that, Choman now recognize which guerrilla group Lei is specifically affiliated to.
"I am from the Green Ribbon army!" Lei declared. Many guards now swarmed into the room, surprisingly going past all the Kheshig. They circled Lei, who didn't even try to act defensively.
...
South of Ba Sing Se
A lone man stood in the midst of a battlefield, silently as he watched the last of his enemy shot by a well intended crossbow bolt. Countless corpses of the fallen bandit army littered around him, and his men gathered all of it and build a small mountain, ready to burn it in case a disease would spread.
The man grappled the handle of his weapon, a large guandao drenched in the blood of his enemies. The glaive looked very heavy, and it looked like it has slayed hundreds if not thousands of enemies.
He considered his enemies foolish. If only they had just surrendered, he would have spared them. But of course, they would all have to pass his judgment, and even then life in prison would not be pleasant for the outlaws.
This is because these bandits knew who they were facing. They would rather die fighting rather than subjecting themselves to his mercy. After all, many bandits would often commit pillage, rape, steal, plunder and even massacres. Which is why this man alone is their greatest fear. They knew what he will do when he gets his hands on captured outlaws.
The man turned at the sun, which is now setting. How beautiful. He felt.
The battle he just won may not be the Battle to Hong Hai, but it's a victory nonetheless. The bandit army just pillaged a small village on the border, and they were sent here to quell this roaming band of marauders.
But when they got to the village, none of the locals were left. The men were beheaded. The children were all thrown into wells. The elderly have been suffocated by bandits who drown them in the nearby river. The women have been hung to the trees after their bodies were abused by bandits who couldn't help themselves.
The man took a long deep breath after processing all of this. When they reached the village, him and his soldiers only felt one thing and one thing only.
Rage
They made sure that every bending and every swing of their weapons are dealt with the pure intention of avenging the innocent. And the painful cries of each bandit became music to their ears. No one felt remorse when they slayed the army of bandits and their leader.
But still, everyday such tragedies happen. Yet this man cannot help them all. He clenched his fist, and vow one day, the lands will be united. By words if possible, by force when necessary. Even if the whole world turned against him, and history remembering him as a conqueror, he does not care.
He then heard a small painful cry of bandit nearby. It was faint and weak, but the man can hear the last remaining snarl.
"You got lucky today you Ba Sing Se dog!" The bandit coughed as he lain flat on the ground, bleeding. A crossbow bolt is stuck inside his torso, he is on his last breathe.
The man walked towards the bandit, raising his guandao in the air.
"You must have felt very sad with what we have done to those villagers, too bad you can't do a thing about it!" The bandit taunted continuously. He wishes to use his last words to insult this very man.
The massive blade was brought downwards, and ended the bandit's life. Pretty sure that was the last one, the wielder thought to himself.
He continued to observe the field of blood and corpses. As if he is waiting for something. Something to break inside him.
He continued to watch.
As legions after legions of Ji wielding soldiers accompanied the dozens of Earth-bending powered tanks, he only stood there.
No one bothered him, not even his own lieutenant, who rode on an ostrich horse and slowly trotted pass the guandao user.
The man is now alone, he will catch up with the rest of them. They still need to search for the stranglers of bandits who escaped the battlefield. But if the last bandit he killed was right about anything, is that today, he failed to save anyone.
Author's message:
I do want to apologize for the end bit of this chapter. It does feel a lot disturbing than what I usually wrote.
We finally reached 200000 words everyone. Wow, never thought I would get this far. I would like to thank all of you that is reading, but I unfortunately have a not very good news if you are expecting chapter around next week. Sorry.
I have decided my story is not performing well, as I felt my writing is not good both in quality and quantity standpoint. The fact I struggled to describe the clothing and armor the Kheshig nomad wear is still quite a disappointment to me. So I do want to improve myself.
I also want to finish the Kyoshi novels so that the things I wrote do not contradict the official lore of Avatar, I mean come on, this story is literally called 'Legacy of Kyoshi'. And I would like to spend time to improve on my writing style so that it feels more enjoyable for you guys. Furthermore, I will also spend this time to fix past mistakes in the previous chapters, so that people don't feel any cringe or weirdness when they read stuff that feels right to me but weird for others. I have already rewritten the end of chapter 13, check it out if you want.
Alright, now for some explanation about this chapter:
-Shi Zhang literally means mayor. And yes, I used google translate.
-The guandao is a type of pole arm weapon that has a large blade attacked to the long handle. It is famously used by the character GuanYu from Romance of the Three Kingdoms.
-Lastly, while I am taking some time off, I will also answer any questions you guys have.