The Legacy of Kyoshi

by kaoart

They called him, the Avatar killer. A simple name yet it carries so much weight in its words. It was by his decision, that the Avatar was slain. To create the world anew, and quell all asunder. The killer knew what he was doing, but has he succeeded?

50. Chapter 50: Pressure

Huo's body sank into a chair inside an office building. Yet, it wasn't enough, she hoped that she can bury her whole body alone with her shame. No words can describe how disappointed she felt, knowing the master plans have been ruined by her failure.

The building they are in is multiple story high, located at Yue bay. Many people like living here as this is the iconic spot of Republic city. Not only does it provide a clear serene view of the ocean. But most importantly, the statue of Avatar Aang can be glamoured by everyone who resides here.

But Huo has no leisure to admire that prominent statue. She is here because of her tremendous failure. While she has avoided charges in court, she has compromised her friends in other ways. Obviously, it drew more attention from other citizens in the city.

While small, words about her appearance in court can snowball into huge backlash. She will never forgive herself if she is one responsible for the master's disappointment.

As she hold on her breathe, she knew she is in serious trouble. The mission they were assigned was one of high stakes. They had the perfect opportunity and a simple goal, to capture the daughters of Akahana and bring them to their master. Yet, they have failed spectacularly with astounding defeat. The four of them were some of the finest pure benders, chosen by the master himself. How can she ever forgive herself for failing their leader's trust in them? They have repaid his benevolence with nothing but humiliation. What is worst is that they have suffered a heavy loss following the encounter with the Kheshig Khan, the master's greatest enemies...

In front of a large wooden task, Huo retracted her fingers, curling them up to minimize her presence in this dimly lit room. With the exception of the window, there is no lighting here. Her withdrawn body language and depressed expression went almost unnoticed by the middle aged man in suit. He is mixed with traditional northern water tribe design. With white fur sleeves and blue dye, the dress is designed to resemble closely to authentic dress.

While it is mandatory for each member to marry benders of the same element, they are also encouraged to embrace their traditional roots and dress codes of assigned trait.

The man here is clearly a fierce devotee to that idea, spending heavy price to find the most skilled Water tribe tailor the city has to offer. Even so, there is a clear difference between what he is wearing when compared to real Northern Water Tribe robes. No matter how skilled the tailor is, it is impossible for them to replicate the real cultural dress in such an environment. The temperature isn't cold here everyday, and wearing a thick layer of fur will definitely cause hyperthermia.

People often say the city's culture have evolved, straying too far away from what was once authentic. All the Water tribe citizens in this city probably don't even remember many of their old traditions and how they used to dress. And their organization takes an issue with that.

He paced constantly around the room, frustrated, confused and even agitated. He is the type of man that will lash out at anything that contradict their great ideology.

Huo told him everything about what happened on the mission. And it wasn't pleasant hearing it.

"The lost of the blood bender is a great cause of concern, as that pure warrior definitely was one of the best. We took a great deal of effort just to produce a water bender with undiluted bloodline. All that training and planning, she was a shining example of our great ideology, but that is all for naught!" He slammed the desk, then look out to the window. His voice was a bit high pitched, yet his short and slim body didn't allow the more powerful Huo to assert herself. This man is an important figure to their cause. While their pure members are out in the fields to cultivate their progress and gather resources, this man is one who run things behind the scene. Without his expertise and experience in the city's politics, their organization wouldn't have established a firm foothold here. His name is Narlo, a well educated man who is also a fierce devotee to the master. Many even consider him as sort of a 'second in command'.

He doesn't fight with his water bending, but his value far exceeds any pure warriors of their ranks.

"My friends and I, we tried our best..." Huo stuttered, afraid of every word she spoke. "We were going to capture the spawns of Akahana, we almost succeeded. But someone else interfered. We should have done better!"

But as the leader of their group, Huo's responsibility was certainly the greatest. She waited until the two Kyoshi warriors were forced into the wilderness. She waited when their targets are distracted while talking with that air-bending boy. Perhaps she has been too impatient, forgotten the importance of neutral Jing. She very believed that she had the right opportunity when she ordered Feng to shoot the net gun.

But at last, Kyoshi warriors proved to be the masters of stealth. It seems that it is impossible for one to perform a sneak attack on one of them.

As demonstrated by Mayumi's inhuman reflexes, it proves that Kyoshi warrior are able to detect people attempting to ambush them. It was a foolish move to challenge them in that department.

"Who?" The short man asked, almost frightening her with a sharp and scathing tone. "Who would dare oppose the pure warriors chosen by the master himself? Those that stood against the Eternal Balance are nothing more but a pack of lowborn whose worth is as little as the grass beneath our feet!" Despite his outward profession as an educated man, he talks similar to almost every member who partake in their cause. Enthusiastic and dogmatic to outsiders, he too will not hesitate to proclaim the glory of their master.

"T-They are those air-benders," Huo almost felt shivers as she uttered those words. She immediately noticed the man thickening his veins. "They have grey arrows. I didn't realize it at first, but they were people the master specifically warned us about." She remembered how she dismissed Batu as just some boy from a roaming nomadic tribe. Without a grey arrow tattoo on his forehead, she cannot identify his affiliation.

There are many people on Earth Kingdom that do not live a sedentary lifestyle. Some ethic groups wear fur deels, living in yurt tent and build houses that deviate from usual Earth Kingdom architecture. She simply thought he was just a random nomad hunting for food. Her false assumption is clearly what led to their team's downfall, and she paid for it dearly.

The man nodded, affirming what she said. But his critique was demeaning to Huo's failures. "Not only were you not able to capture the two sisters, you allowed the most filthy race of people escape!" He boomed, causing the young fire-bender to flinch in the chair. His outburst is understandable from her point of view. Air-benders who were before non-benders are considered the most impure people of this world, even more than benders born from non-bender parents. But her friend Feng is a rare exception, he is said to be born from two air-bending parents, who were members of their great cult. While they always target the Kheshig, they are still open for any air-benders to join their group, so long as they are 'pure'.

The Kheshigs for one, is a race of men that must be eradicated to stop their numbers from proliferating. Their existence alone would threaten Earth Kingdom's already sparse Earth-bending population. According to the teachings of bending purity, intermixing would surely dilute the bloodline of Earth-benders, producing weaker offsprings. Thus, bending itself is being undermined!

"We are always surrounded by enemies of the glorious Eternal Balance. Only when bending is restored to purity, can the world be saved. New Air-Benders are the greatest threat to the master's plan. You should have kill any air-bender you came across without hesitation." He then looked out the window again. From a distance, he can see Air-temple island, just in the middle of the water.

Eyes snarled, he continued to express his disdain for the people who controls air. "Tenzin, while he and his offsprings are the purest, he is still guilty! How dare he and his so called New Air Nation assert themselves as the successors of the traditional Air Nomads!" He clenched his fist, as if Tenzin is right in front of him. "Such audacity and betrayal! The Air-Benders on the Earth Kingdom clearly have diluted bloodlines, unsuitable for repopulation. Only the true line of air-nomads can claim legitimacy for being a real air-bender. The rest can only obtain purity by joining out great Eternal Balance! Tenzin is the last living important relic alive, yet, he foolishly used those inferior non-benders as well as impure lowborn to replace his culture's authenticity! Disgusting! Abhorrent! All those air-acolytes and new air-benders are simply imposters, a cheap imitation of their glorious past!"

He poured a whole cup of water into his tired dried mouth as he finally ended his rant, but Huo knew this is not the end. This person always demands results, holding a fierce loyalty for the master. Always seen in a suit and tie, he can easily be dismissed as just another citizen working with checks and balances. But those familiar with their organization would know that he is the vital link between the master's will and the city's political elites. Without Narlo lobbying the city's elites, they wouldn't have been granted immunity from those pesky monks. Therefore, he is ordained by the master to be a high priest, overlooking their members who reside in Republic City. To disrespect a man who is trusted by the master himself, is to disrespect the master's reverence.

The girl in black hair got out of the seat, and kneeled down in front of him. She pressed her forehead on the rough wooden floor, refusing to even look up at the scrawny middle aged man. "I, Huo, may have failed the master once, but give me another chance and I will surely capture the daughters of that witch Akahana. Please, lend me some additional pure benders in your disposal, and I swear on my honor that I will succeed. Both of them are probably already in the city of Ba Sing Se. Send me to capture them. And with the help of our underground brothers and sisters there, we can surely retrieve the two despite the city's strict surveillance!"

She didn't heard an immediate reply. Using her ears and the vibration of the floors, she can make out that the man is walking behind the desk and slumping down onto the cushioned chair.

"That may not be necessary." He said, dejecting Huo's fighting spirit. "Your mission of capturing Akahana's two daughters have been put on hold. We have found a new way to get what we wanted."

"W-what!" She jerked up and looked at him straight in the eye. Her lungs almost choked when she heard that the most important mission of her life has been withdrawn. "What are you implying? Capturing Akahana's daughters is the only way to pressure Kyoshi island. I thought that was an important part of his excellency's master plan. How can you even suggest we abandon it?" She and her friends were trained their whole lives just for this one purpose. Capture them. Capture them. Capture them. All those times, training together, damaging her bones and refining her technique, what were they for? To capture the filthy spawns of that murderous woman called Akahana of course!

"Silent servant!" Narlo shouted. "Do not question the new direction for our people. Those is the master's decision!"

Huo almost jumped out of her skin as she heard that. Her legs trembled, and quickly kneeled. She have just outspoken at a plan made by the master!

Narlo pulled out a drawer and slapped some paper on the desk. After receiving permission, Huo got up and arrived near the table. She saw wanted posters of various criminals. Judging by their faces and the design of the posters, she realized that these are people targeted by Chin village's tyrannical justice system. All of them are deadly cutthroats willing to do anything for wealth.

Many times, Huo and her friends often met people from those backgrounds. While they are not officially part of their glorious cause, the master believes they too serve a great purpose.

The master would often say: It is easier to conceal your own presence when you used another person's sword to commit the act.

For decades, they have maintained an acceptable level of public image, earning the trust of many citizens in Republic city. Their righteous spiritual movement shall not be unhinged, but sometimes they must think pragmatically to achieve their goals. Any criminals who wish to flock to the master's banner are always welcomed. Even if they are not a member of their great movement, it would also meant they are very expendable.

"Kyoshi island has something we needed, something many people want. At first, our master simply wanted to silently takeover the island, and make it another one of our holy colonies on the Earth Kingdom." The man sighed, remembering how much headaches the Kyoshi warriors have caused them. "But we always failed no matter what. At first, we tried to control them by bringing them to our side. And you know what happened better than I."

"My mother died trying to do that. But those islanders are savages, they harmed her despite her demonstration of kindness!" She squeezed her sleeves, lamenting about the unforgivable action of those Kyoshi warriors. Just thinking about those women in makeup and donned in armor makes her sick.

"Indeed, which is why we resorted to use expendable pirates, and anyone who is willing to attack Kyoshi island regardless they win or not. Those fools, they think they can march right into the island and expect to take their riches, little did they know that their purpose was to just serve as our glorious master's experiment to test the island's defense. Wearing down their pathetic little economy, scaring away visitors with every attack, until they became weak enough through attrition. Yet, after so many years, decades even, our master decided that such plans are unproductive. He has chosen to brilliantly formulate another grand plan, which means Kyoshi island no longer is our priority."

Huo stared at the posters which depicted pirates. Their spiritual movement uses these people to attack Kyoshi island at the height of every tourist season. With the main goal of slowly suffocating and isolating their little economy while isolating them from the world. If the island regresses back to an insignificant place where the world don't even know their existence, then the likelihood of their movement to take over the island traumatically increases. But such attrition tactic is also quite wasteful of resources, and might mot even work. The Kyoshi warriors are not pushovers. When compared to some poor Earth Kingdom town with a weak and untrained militia, the elite order founded by Avatar Kyoshi is a force to be reckoned with despite their low numbers. While the hired pirates sent there did succeed by scaring away the tourists, thereby damaging the island's reputation and decreasing their income. Those mercenaries are easily defeated, EVERY SINGLE TIME. And each time, the warriors would just transfer them to Chin village, who will mostly boil them in oil. Of course, Chin village is not always the place to depose the cut throats. Recent wars on the mainland have made the people of Chin village preoccupied with something else.

She remembered how the last patch of pirates was especially rowdy. But they were also rather friendly to Shui, who is an outcast of her own right. All it took was one meeting with those mercenaries, and Shui befriended them, forming a friendly bond. It's strange, Huo thought. Shui never enjoyed the idea of having friends, let alone talking with people. While Huo valued the blood-bender as a close companion and a reliable teammate, Shui never shown the same feeling. She mostly acted reclusive and cared little for others, even to the amicable Tu. Perhaps it's the rare and bizarre yet unexpected bond Shui created with those expendable pirates is what drove her to act so rashly when taunted by Mayumi. The blood-bender went to great lengths just to defend those pirates' honor, and she along with Tu paid for it dearly.

Huo tried to not let a stray tear flow out of her eyes, but just thinking about her friends makes it harder. She was the leader, she was the one who truly failed them. If it wasn't for her incompetent decision making, the four of them would still be together. And she still doesn't even know where Feng went. He could be all alone in the wilds, without food or water, sleeping on cold ground. Just thinking about his predicament makes her heart ache.

"You know, since Kyoshi island cannot submit to our great spiritual movement by force, we chose to use their two precious princesses as hostage. The beast called Akahana may be a bloodthirsty monster, but even she has weakness. Using her own two offspring to force her submission will surely result in victory." The man then leaned forward, almost as if he is interrogating the already depressed fire-bender. "Which is why we can held the daughters in ransom to exchange for what we wanted. But you failed."

"I know, those o-"

"Shhhhhhh!" The superior quickly hissed, sharply stopping her from talking. "Do not utter that word, do you know how close this place is to the tower of that company. If they heard even a whisk of the massive black gold reserve, they will get it before us!"

Huo nodded attentively. The Standardized Oil Company owns a tower just across the street. It's their main headquarters, a tall grey building made out of concrete. At the very top is actually a beautiful mansion, where the owner of the company resides.

From inside this office, they can even see some of their staff holding meetings, deciding which plot of Earth Kingdom land they should purchase next and from whom. So far, the secret that Kyoshi island has a massive reserve of oil is known to very few people of this world. And only a select few of the master's cult is aware. To their knowledge, majority of Kyoshi island's dwellers are also ignorant of the massive black gold reserve lying underneath them. Beneath their traditional fishing grounds is a supply of oil enough to support a massive army of mech-tanks. And those backward islanders chose to use that space to catch fish!?

"We tried everything, but still failed. The two Kyoshi warriors are crafty. Capturing the daughters of Akahana will be near impossible now that they are in Ba Sing Se." Narlo huffed, clearing frustrated. "That city, alone with the Fire Nation as well as the Northern Water tribe are the most hostile areas to our great cause, which is why the master decided to devise a new plan, infallible, perfect in all ways. We will no longer be needing those black gold buried underneath Kyoshi island. He has found a glorious new alternative."

Although Huo felt a great sense of relief that their glorious master has managed to found a way to compensate for her failures, she would be lying if she said that she would fully support the new plan. Tu and Shui lost their lives trying to capture the daughters of Kyoshi island's most influential figure, and simply changing course felt...disrespectful to her friend's sacrifice.

She know Kyoshi island is in a tough position now. The United Republic placed a heavy sum of tariffs on their fish, and banned people from visiting there. As those islanders are bleeding money, capturing Akahana's daughters would also meant the fierce Kyoshi warriors are left with little options. Using the daughters of Akahana as bargaining chips meant they can just claim the whole island and the secret stash of black gold. But that doesn't seem to be important now, since her master have found a new easier alternative.

She will not doubt her master's infinite wisdom. Yet, she also wanted to prove that Shui and Tu's death are not in vain. But to truly eradicate this world from impure beings, she must set the sight on the main goal.

For years, she and many followers are imbued with the goal of creating a permanent base of power for their master. While Republic city is a safe haven for their movement, their master cannot exercise full control here. Sure, they can influence elections and public opinion, even going as far as to build their own exclusive neighborhoods for their people. But their great ideology of the Eternal Balance and bending purity has been challenged by another player of this city.

Tenzin himself.

That man, the son of Avatar Aang, has been a great thorn to them. He alone challenged them intellectually, opposing them on almost every front. It is frustrating, as many people saw Tenzin as a wise figure in the city. This meant that while their group is tolerated here, Huo knew less people are willing to join them due to the Air Nation's meddling nature. Which is why they are convinced that the Eternal Balance can only be achieved by finding a new settlement where they can be in charge.

So far, they have managed to establish some towns on the Earth Kingdom, slowly increasing their numbers and power on the mainland. While not many truly know of their group's intentions, many simply dismissed them as just another band of bandits who took over secluded towns and cities. And sometimes, any warlord who actually cares enough would simply retake those towns they fought so hard to control. Which is why there is one city they believe would be a better prize, a more suitable base of power. It is the crown jewel of the Earth Kingdom, the great city of Ba Sing Se.

If they managed to take over the city and rule it for themselves, this would boost the Eternal balance's presence on the world stage. The city is easily defensible. By that time when their great spiritual movement makes itself a key player of the world, the city's wall itself would be enough to deter any attempts to bring down their master. And as time goes on, they can slowly expand, devouring all opponents. Once the whole Earth Kingdom is brought under the Master's benevolence, they will look across the ocean, bring their glorious ideology to the rest of the world. By then, the monarchs of the Fire Nation and the Northern Water tribe will pay for banning their movement on their soil!

But the invasion of Ba Sing Se would require a massive army. There is a reason why the city has withstand from many external invasions. Not only did Ba Sing Se own the biggest armies, its walls alone is a great deterrence to even the most fearsome general.

And another thing that stood in their way are also the people who guard the bastion. The famous general known as the Judge of Honghai to the Earth Kingdom, Serpent slayer to the Watertribe, Dragon of the East to the Fire Nation. And the most terrifying of all, the Air Nation called him the...

That Ba Sing Se general alone can decimate their whole army if the fighters of the Eternal Balance do not prepare. The Battle of Honghai all those years ago proves it. Which is why they must equip themselves with the best weapons Future industries can provide. So powerful must the followers become that they. But fuel shortage is also a huge problem they have been grappling with. A large and well equipped army cannot function with the black gold that powers it.

She has no doubt in their master's powers, being the most pure bender of this world. But what they needed are enough fuel for machines to last them the entire invasion. While it might be simple to just find another place on the Kingdom with such deposit, the Standardized Oil Company would have a say in that. Any oil located are always snatched up by that powerful corporate entity. The fact that they don't know Kyoshi island has a deposit is simply a miracle!

"I-If the plan to take over Kyoshi island is no longer important, then what is going on exactly?" Huo wants to know what changed. What made the master alter their course? Have they found a new source of black gold? "Is there anything I can help with?"

The middle aged man in Water tribe getup felt compelled to withheld such secrets. He leaned back on the chair, and kindly declined to tell her more. "The master's infinite wisdom may be too difficult for youngsters to understand. I commentate your selflessness, but your help is unnecessary. Your new mission now is to prepare for the Invasion, by being a messenger and travel to Ba Sing Se. You will deliver this message to the leader of the underground chapter." He pulled out a rolled up scroll, and threw it at Huo carelessly.

The Fire-bender almost dropped the parchment as she barely caught it. She treasured it closely to her chest, knowing this is a message directly written from the master himself. Just holding it alone makes her shoulder feel weighed with additional responsibilities.

"The city's surveillance is tight, you know that better too." Narlo sighed, explaining why Huo is assigned to be a messenger. "When information is so regulated, it's pretty easy for the city to know it's about to be conquered by our master's radiating might. While I have no doubt that our master will successfully bring the city under his control, as his followers we must not create obstacles for him by alerting their defenses. Which is why you must infiltrate it and deliver this vital message, for even an impenetrable castle can have cracks. And mice can easily crawl into."

Huo bowed, grateful to be assigned to a monumental task. Being able to serve as a pure fire-bender in the master's army is a true honor and Fire bender can have. And enacting the master's will is even more worthy for her talent. She held the parchment with the upmost care. If this letter can talk, she would say 'thank you' all day. As it reminded her that the master still trusts her. This time, she will not fail, no matter what.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Huo slowly exited the room. From now, she is expected to go to Ba Sing Se, and excise the will of the master once more. But before that, she believe she needed to do something else first.

The door to the building closed. Narlo finally relaxed on his chair and turned on the radio. With a few twist and turns, he change the channel to Republic city's news.

"The forces of the United Republic is amassing the Fleet of Freedom in prepration of invading the evil regime. The commander in chief is demanding the immediate surrender of the tyrannical ruler. The sight of the enemy's capital is within their proximity. And until now, the enemy still refuses to surrender the weapon of mass destruction..."

The United Republic may be a strong powerhouse now. But one day, even they will succumb under the master's unrivaled brilliance, Narlo thought smugly to himself. He pulled open a bottle of liquor and pour some in the cup, and proceeds to enjoy it as he watched sky bisons landing on Air Temple island. Judging by the appearance and numbers of the bison's passengers, he knew they must be from the four Air temples. Tenzin has gathered the council composed of the most senior air-acolytes, discussing important issues in regards to the world. And Huo's capture clearly compelled them to talk about Earth Kingdom's many problems. For years, their activities on the Earth Kingdom remain well hidden. But now, things might change, more people will start to know. Which is why they must speed up with the brilliant plan ordained by the master.

"Enjoy the moment while you still can Tenzin." Narlo smirked darkly. "When the Eternal Balance is enforced across the whole world, not even you can resist!" He gulped the whole glass of wine, smiling at the Air-Nation's pitiful resistance to their great ideology.

...

Satchiko is dressed up in her usual green kimono, but without her elaborate makeup and armor. For this class, she doesn't need them.

So far, her study has shown to improve, by a tiny margin...

She learnt to write a few words, thanks to Hudie's efforts. The Miao girl have managed to expand the vocabulary of the Kyoshi warrior, and even helped with the poems and literature. But those might not be enough to quench Satchiko's unease. She did expanded her puny vocabulary by a few words. While she does make mistakes on certain written languages, the sentences she wrote is at least somewhat readable. But her understanding of complex stories and histories are extremely foggy.

But she still have tremendous difficulty despite using her best effort, and the fear of not being able to pass the written exam grew ever more. She refuse to give up. Mayumi have placed so much hope and confidence in her. Already lying to her big sister is a huge compromise, which is why she must succeed in learning Earth bending no matter what!

"Welcome troops!" The instructor bellowed brightly, walking into the courtyard. She is a large middle aged woman, walking bare footed in order to connect with the earth itself. "I see that you are all prepared to learn the more practical sides of Earth bending!"

All the students formed two great lines on the courtyard premise, facing each other. Satchiko already paired up with Hudie, who is not wearing her silver headdress in case she damages it. Both of them looked at one another. Stacks of small Earth coins, a miniature size of what the warlord soldiers have, are placed near the students on Hudie's side.

The instructor came by, raising her chin up high and narrowed the thick brows. "You might be wondering, why didn't Master Xuan Zang allow pebble pickers like you to attend my class on the first week!?" The instructor shouted at everyone, but none had the knowledge to understand what she meant. "Bending not only focused on the element itself. It's easy to just throw rocks at each other and end the day with it. But once you learnt how to respect and appreciate the arts and culture forged by Earth bending, your desire to throw rocks became an expression of our way of life as well! And today, let's see if you privileged classroom softies are bold enough to get your hands dirty!"

Satchiko swallowed with difficulty. To be completely honest, she doesn't felt as though the in door classes helped that much. She is spending more time to memorize poems and classics than theorizing how to move earth. If anything, those classes don't seemed to be exclusively related to Earth bending.

"Now, you pebble squeakers on the left, attack!" The instructor yelled on top of her lungs like a mad drill sergeant, training inexperienced rookies as though they were in an army camp.

One by one, students on Hudie's side launched the tiny earth discs at their sparring partners. Students from different background uses different techniques. Some used their legs to kick the disc. Some shot up the disc from the ground and then punch it. The most common one might be just simple punches, fast ones.

The instructor never specified how one should respond on Satchiko's side. But the only prerequisite is that one should use their bending. She watched at how others on her side counteract. They are assembling a small earth barrier to block the projectiles as well as just using bare hands to destroy the incoming coins. She bending a wall to earth and shoot it up from the ground is a common technique for many Earth benders she has encountered on this journey. Lei, her 'first' unofficial Earth bending teacher, have demonstrated this when defending the gates of Shang. He pulled up a wall in front of him, after blocking the projectiles, he throw the wall at the enemy. Defend then attack.

What her classmates did were simple and basic bending moves, ones that are considered amateur style. Yet, she doesn't feel she can do the same. She panicked, knowing she will fail to replicate what the others performed with ease. Looking back at her partner, she saw Hudie moved her legs in small and fast steps like a dancer. A lone earth disc launched and fly straight at the bewildered Kyoshi warrior.

"Wait wait wait!!!" Satchiko flew up her hands wildly, her body's reflex override the body as she doesn't have the time to decide what to do. The clueless Kyoshi warrior thought her first lesson would be about learning how to move rocks. Who would have thought it would be combat.

The earth disc doesn't care about her predicament, all it wanted was to deliver a smash at the brown haired idiot.

"Satchiko, what are you doing!" Hudie's worried cry broke her out of her trance. The Kyoshi warrior regained her composure, and moved her upper body sidewards to evade the disc.

It wisps passed her shoulder, hitting the stone wall behind. She turned her head back to look, and saw how the disc is half way into the wall. If this proved anything, is that Hudie is not as harmless as she often appears to be. She may be a 'dancer', but she is not a pushover. Of all the students here, Hudie appears to be outperforming by everyone. In literature, arts and poetry, she exceeds everyone in class. And Earth bending is no exception. The coin flew faster than everyone else's, and she just barely dodged that.

"You!"

Satchiko felt a cold shiver down her spine as she heard the instructor's authoritative voice. She slowly rotated her head to front, which was met with a unimpressed woman looking down at her.

"Answer me little girl, why didn't you use your bending?" She interrogated Satchiko, who cannot summon the speech to explain. It was intimidating, and she stood in silence. "I specifically said that you must respond with your bending, where is it?"

"It's...I actually never bend something that heavy before." Satchiko's meek tone made her feel pathetic. She is a Kyoshi warrior, she fought pirates and bandits with only her metal fans and survive. She can chi-block opponets and paralyze them. But she has to constantly be under pressure from teachers who demand high expectations from their pupils. It seems that her expectations of an easy Earth bending class is ruined, just like the other lessons.

"Very?" The instructor isn't convinced, amused that a person of her age still haven't moved past what they consider the 'infant' stage. Earth benders in their infancy often play around with pebbles found outdoors. Those who managed to move tiny rocks without using their hands is definitely one way to know they are an earth bender. But the problem with Satchiko is that she never seems to have improved from that point. All these years, and without another Earth bender's guidance, her hands are trained to handle fans, swords and spears. But moving Earth? Never.

"Miss Satchiko!" The instructor said after scanning the paper list of everyone's name. "You are saying that you always bend little pebble, but you are a teenager!" She almost screamed, as if the idea of bending being so terrible is ludicrous. "You are seventeen!" She then used her bending to toss an earth disc at the bewildered Kyoshi warrior. But instead of using bending, she dodged away again, making the instructor's face churn with disappointment.

"Hey um, can I at least practice moving an earth disc first before I continue?" Satchiko's plead was met with the instructor rolling her eyes. But she is grateful that the teacher is willing to stop the lesson just to accommodate her failings.

The stroct headmistress of this class slowly hovered a lone disc, and float it in-front of Satchiko. The whole class is staring at them, but they are staring at Satchiko specifically. She knew they are watching her, waiting for her to fail. It's a type of pressure she never felt before. As a Kyoshi warrior of her village, all her fellow sisters look at her with only admiration and respect. Since she is the matron's daughter and a very skilled warrior aside from Mayumi, it's only natural that she enjoys such attention.

But here, those feelings are reverse. As all eyes are glued to her flimsy Earth bending, she felt almost embarrassed and even afraid. Being all nervous, she used both hands in an attempt to receive the earth disc without touching it physically. She can do it with two little pebbles, an earth disc at the size of a hand shouldn't be that difficult right?

"I will let go if you tell me," the intructor temporary dropped her strict tone to assist Satchiko. "Ready when you are."

She focused her every fiber to increase concentration. Placing her hands below the coin without contacting the surface, she imagined herself moving the disc, keeping it in the air just as she is playing around with pebbles.

She breathed in, and out. The honor of her family name is at stake here, she very doesn't want to fail.

"Do it."

The instructor released her control and gave Satchiko full authority over the earth coin. Within that split second, Satchiko can feel her veins thicken as she tries to tighten the muscles of her hands. Whether or not this increases the chance of bending, she doesn't very know. But what is true is that the earth coin followed gravity like a lost child who just found their parent. It painfully pushed past her fingers, causing the gurl to hiss in response. It then plummeted to the dusty surface, and that's it.

The instructor groaned a bit. Even she felt this poor display of earth benders is utter embarrassment. Some students in the courtyard begin to laugh and giggle. It's simply too funny to watch.

"Well I...I mean, well." She stuttered, a bit at lost of words here. Perhaps these little earth discs are too heavy for her. Before this moment, she never felt the tremendous amount of shame accumulating, striking her like a needle. In everyone's eye, she is a mere teenager who couldn't even lift a simple disc. A very embarrassing display to say the least.

"Enough laughing!" The instructor boomed, and the students immediately ceased their snickers. She then faced Hudie, who knew what is going to be requested. "You stopping bending as well, I can't have you earth bend at someone who couldn't even lift a coin. Now, the rest of you, continue."

The other students resumed the basic training session. Each pair would also alternate, switching the person who bends the disc at each other. Meanwhile, Satchiko shows the best bending she can perform, that little trick she always do back in the island, rotating two pebbles between her palms. Of course, she can also shoot these pebbles at a training dummy, but what damage is that going to cause? It's more likely going to make her opponent laugh at such puny bending.

...

Both of them walked back to the dorms following the conclusion of the lesson. It ended with disappointment for Satchiko, dissatisfied with her skills.

First class of actual Earth bending and Satchiko already sense the mountain of uphill struggles that will come. A key problem identified by the instructor is her level of proficiency. It is equivalent to a toddler's skill. Actually, even children can often be seen bending larger chunks of earth from the ground, just to play a regular ball game. Seeing how the unbridgeable gap between her skill in bending and the other students is certainly a blow to her confidence. But that shouldn't be too serious, right?

"Argh! I don't get it!" Satchiko snapped, kicking a pebble from the path to vent her frustration. "You all made it look easy. Tell me Hudie, how did you learn Earth bending? If there is something important I am missing, please tell me so I can fix myself." She wanted to know what life is like for her fellow classmates. There must be a strong reasoning as to why everyone else managed to be so proficient at Earth bending from the start. All those attending that lesson is simply for the sake of formality. She knew they are much more skillful than what the instructor laid out for them. What she doesn't know is that what made them different?

Hudie shrugged. "Nothing much very." She answered casually. "Our village don't have much Earth benders, but I was lucky enough to have a teacher before coming here. When I was younger, all I was taught is how to move large chunks of earth from one place to the other. I did this repeatedly, until the weight felt lighter as I improved my skills. Earth bending is difficult, so don't be too hard on yourself on your first lesson."

"And how long have you been learning Earth bending for?" Satchiko asked as she a very heavy book on her shoulders.

"Oh, five years."

Five years?!

Satchiko rubbed her sleeves in disappointment. For all her life, the absence of an Earth bending teacher never bothered her the slightest. Dedicating all her hours in the village's dojo, she tied her life around learning how to use fans and swords. Now, such drawback is finally rearing its ugly fans. If she doesn't get stronger by mastering her bending, stronger benders like Taotie will be a great danger to her should she meet another one.

"Here, try to bend this." Hudie found a hand sized rock from the side of the path. Placing in the middle of the dorm's courtyard, she asked Satchiko to try to move it. "It's not as heavy as those little disc things during class, you should attempt to move it."

The already doubtful Kyoshi warrior went alone with it. What harm is there? She is already behind, being offered a tiny lesson may prove helpful.

As she extended her hands out at the small rock. It's about ten times of a pebble, which means it is much harder.

"Arrrrggggh! Come on!" The Kyoshi warrior screamed. Exerting all the willpower she can summon, she hope to at least cause it to move. But the rock just stood there. Even in silence, she can tell it is amused by her hilarious display. But she isn't going to stop just yet. As she kept throwing her hands and stomping her shoes in all the directions, it attracted unwanted attention from the wandering students. Some stopped what they are doing just to watch her feeble attempts to move such an insignificant rock.

She tried a lot. After half an hour of trying to bend the rock and move it around, she finally paused to take a little break.

"Um, maybe it's my fault, let's start with a smaller rock and then we will-"

"No," Satchiko put up a hand to object Hudie's words. "It's not your fault, not the slightest. I am the only person who is responsible for my own bending shortcomings, not you." She cannot blame Hudie. The Miao girl may not be a qualified teacher, but that does not justify Satchiko's lack of affinity to the bending.

How can someone accuse their own bending teacher without reflecting the flaws of oneself first? Blaming others for the mistakes accumulated by your own negligence, is simply an act to conceal self-inflicted shortcomings.

She played those words repeatedly in her mind. Her mother would often say these things when both she and Mayumi were younger. That was before Akahana became the village's Kyoshi warrior leader, and they would spend long hours together in strict training. When sparring with bamboo training swords, the strict former instructor never allow her daughters to cut corners.

Whenever Satchiko failed to perform a certain form or technique, her mother would make her rehearse it again until she gets it. It can be terrifying sometimes, as Akahana would occasionally be dissatisfied with poor performance. When the Red Rose herself is angered, not a single sane soul would dare approach the tempered woman.

Well, except for Hakaru.

People often say that during youth, Akahana is near impossible to calm down. Thankfully, such monstrous tendencies are toned down significantly in the present. And her mother's strict but fair nature did allow Satchiko to be more proficient as a Kyoshi warrior. If hard work can allow her to be near unstoppable when facing pirates, surly she can do the same with Earth bending.

The Kyoshi warrior snatched her hands into a fist. She sharpened her senses and snarled, beaming at the rock with fury. In one swift motion, she punched her left hand towards the direction of the rock, hoping she can move it.

After performing that act, she asked Hudie for feedback.

"Did-did it move a little?" She hoped that after exerting so much effort in that one punch, she has made some progress. But the star pupil made a very uncomfortable face, and the Kyoshi warrior knew the answer is no.

"S-sorry, I'm a terrible teacher." Hudie lamented." I very don't know how you are like this."

"No, no, no!" Satchiko said quickly, rectifying the situation. "It's fine, maybe I am not in the right mindset. Perhaps if I think differently I might be able to move it."

She went back to complete more attempts, all of which resulted in failures. She is clueless about Earth bending like a chef who doesn't know how to cook a basic meal. Even a knucklehead like her knew that a beginner Earth bender requires a substantial amount of practice. But by comparing herself to Hudie, who already knows the basics, she may not have the adequate time. The final exams are in a few short months. If she still could not learn Earth bending, she will return home with shame as well as wasted all her time here.

But perhaps the most shameful part, is that the opportunity to study here is wasted on a meathead like her. If the roles were switched, and Mayumi be the one to receive bending and the chance to study here, then her sister would have no problem.

"Hudie," Satchiko said. "Bend that rock and throw it at me."

Hudie grimaced with surprise. "But you will be hurt! It's dangerous!"

"That's exactly what I want." The Kyoshi warrior replied with calmness. "If I can force myself into a dangerous situation, then I might be about to trigger my bending." She then shifted her arms and legs into a stance usually employed by the Kyoshi warriors. Perhaps reintroducing some familiarity into bending can boost her chances. "I'm ready. Now, bend the rock."

"I very don't want to..." Hudie levitated the rock near her face. Floating it in the air, she positioned her arms to launch the rock at the brown hair girl.

Satchiko took a deep breathe of air into her lungs, and then slowly expelled them. Concentration is key during her trainings back home. While she has never been too proficient in the more spiritual aspects of their people, she can at least somewhat be adaptive when it comes to focusing on a goal.

Once she gave the signal, Hudie bend the rock, sending it right at her. The speed of the projectile is clearly slower then before, highlighting Hudie's hesitation.

It took a lot of self-control to not just dodge out of the way like how she usually would. Clearly, this is much different than training with fans and swords.

The distance between her and the rock closed quickly. It didn't stop even if she tried her best. She failed to realize that the projectile is flying straight to her chest, one collision and she is done for.

"Quick dodge!" Hudie pleaded, not wishing to endanger her friend because of some reckless decision. "It's not worth it!"

"Oof!"

Satchiko felt the impact. She coughed painfully as her chest felt sore. Luckily, she isn't bleeding by any means. But the silk of her kimono has taken a bit of damage. Without her armor, her defenses are clearly downgraded.

"You ok?" Hudie pulled Satchiko back up from the ground. "Let's not try this, it's too dangerous."

The Kyoshi warrior surprisingly brushed off that concern. She patted her dress and moved on like nothing has happened. "Thanks Hudie. Guess I will try to find other ways to learn it." Although she doubt the validity of her own words. Outside of bending pebbles, she very doesn't know how to move larger proportions of earth. The practical exam involves a huge course with mazes and obstacles. All of which are said to require both knowledgeable and physical strength of Earth bending to pass. Superficial details such as bending stone to form stairs or bridges during the exam is already enough to make her quiver internally. She knew her correct limits of bending small pebbles would enough be enough to pass.

"Let's get some study done before the sun sets, by the way, did we fed her yet?" Satchiko asked Hudie as she tries to find the key inside her kimono.

But Hudie insisted Satchiko may have made a small mistake. "I thought it was a he." She stated while standing next to their room's doorway. "Didn't the ones with more fur meant that it is male instead of a female?"

Satchiko smiled awkwardly. She doesn't know that much about turtle ducks just like she doesn't know much about the outside world in general. Ever since they rescued the baby turtle duck, they have been secretly caring for it. There were a few close calls as the superintendent would appear in the building's courtyard, searching for what she claimed to be 'vile and unclean smell'.

Now of course, owning an unofficial pet in the compound means something must be disposed. And Satchiko felt bad to drag Hudie into this, seeing how she made both of them caretakers of the little duckling.

"Whatever, as long as it is in the room, it will be safe." Satchiko finally unlocked the doors. Although she promised to release the turtle back to the wilderness, she would be lying if she deny any attachments to the turtle duckling. It's cute and fluffy fur, its adorable little size. And even its squeaking sound when ever it bites her fingers...

It's simply too attractive to just keep it as a pet. Cuddling it in her hands alone is enough to forget all the studying.

"I think it's asleep," Hudie whispered. They both looked at the little creature resting inside the box. All curled up, eyes shut tide. Even in its slumber, it still emits its inherent adorableness.

Satchiko hoped she can look at the turtle duck sleeping for hours, but time isn't on her side. She shifted to where her table is, and begin to pull out a whole mesh of messy notes and paperwork. Reviewing certain concepts of Earth bending history and whatever content she is too tired to remember. Over the course of a few weeks since her first lesson here, she noticed something peculiar. The poems, the literature as well as history of the Earth Kingdom, all of which has some ties to an Avatar in one way or another. Perhaps here in Ba Sing Se university, they wish to elevate the past Avatar's accomplishments by teaching them to students. Poems about Avatars saving a village from bandits or fighting a tyrannical ruler is often taught in class. Historical lessons about Avatar Aang, saving the world from Firelord Ozai also took up a significant portion. But why? How are they relevant to her Earth bending endeavors?

She expected more from lesson. She wanted them to teach her more about Earth bending itself, so that she may at least bend larger rocks. How is learning about history, poems and arts going to help her anything?

"Hudie, do you think these classes are... don't know how to put it, very unnecessary for us to master Earth bending?" Satchiko said, beginning to question the rationale behind the lesson's difficulty. Clearly what is taught here isn't catered to someone like herself, who still struggles with bending. Why would anyone like Hudie want to study here if she is already proficient at it?"

"Well, I suppose this is a complicated question." Her friend admitted. "But I do believe I can gain something by being here. Mastering Earth bending doesn't happen in a day. There are those who cultivate their skills across the span of years. And even then, they are still not satisfied with their skills. Some masters were said to be able to bend a giant hill. Me? I can't do that." She dotted down some notes as she chatted. "It's still a good opportunity. After all, telling other people you studied here is a big bragging right. When you return to Kyoshi island, I'm sure all your friends will admire you for being a student who graduated here."

Little did Hudie know, people of Kyoshi island didn't care that much about titles and achievements. Hakaru is a scholarly man, but the villagers were never truly impressed by what he achieved before arriving on Kyoshi island. What truly earned him the place amongst her people are the things he did to improve the island. Folks in her village are just like the Yokayans in the past, caring more about what you can do to improve their needs. Everything else are just superficial fascinations that will die out quickly.

They heard knocking sound on the door, and her senses quickly became alert. She almost tripped over when she rushed over to the box, pushing it underneath her bed and hope no one would discover it. If the superintendent is checking their room, they are done for.

When Hudie opened the door, they both sighed in relief, founding out that it's just a girl with long brown hair. She marched right into the room, making herself at home. After placing two bags of food on each person's table, the woman went over to Satchiko, playfully pinching her cheeks.

"I didn't know you are coming to visit us Mayumi." Satchiko's voice sounded swollen, since her sister still haven't let go of her mouth. "You should at least tell me first so that I can prepare." Her own messy study notes are on the table. If Mayumi looks at them, it would draw a very clear picture of Satchiko's situation.

The woman with longer brown her continued to play around with cheeks, gently squeezing them. "Well, expect the unexpected I guess." Mayumi smiled. "I'm not disrupting anything am I?" She asked Hudie, who responded by shaking her head. "Oh well, you two eat up, these are Grandma Jin's secret recipes, just some breadsticks, freshly fried."

Everything in Grandma Jin's benevolent eatery can be considered a secret recipe. But none can doubt that almost every food in there is above the average tastiness. With customers lining up to buy food, it's no wonder they are always busy. Except for the stinky tofu, the one dish which according to Mayumi, no one orders.

Satchiko pulled out whatever that is inside the brown paper bag. It appears to be a strip of fried dough, accompanied by a cup of drink.

"Is this soya milk?" Hudie asked. "I heard they love to have this in early morning."

"Yeah, blended with sugar and all." Mayumi replied, she watched Hudie took a whole mouthful, and then look back at Satchiko, who is still staring at her portion. "How's study? How did you go on your first Earth bending lesson?"

Mayumi's curiosity instantly made Satchiko quake. "Um-good, all good!" She quickly begin to eat up the fried dough and soya milk. While trying to suppress her own guilt of hiding her academic struggles. Yet, even in this tense moment, she cannot help but be impressed by the food. Whoever this Grandma Jin is, she sure does know how make the food enjoyable even in uncomfortable situations.

Mayumi eyes wondered around the room, she glanced at the box underneath Satchiko's bed, staring at it for an extended amount of time.

Satchiko quickly responded by blocking the view, obstructing Mayumi from looking at the box. But this only raised the suspicion more.

"Mind if I look plese?" Mayumi asked very nicely. Since she is the older Kyoshi warrior between the two, Satchiko technically must comply, as the oldest girl in their generation is usually one in charge. While their familial ties negates such formalities, Satchiko moved reluctantly away. Hudie also watched nervously as Mayumi checked in the box.

"Live turtle duck, right here..." Mayumi didn't dare to say it out loud, placing her hands on her chin. "If you are caught, that could land both of you in serious trouble."

Both of them expected to be reprimanded for their actions, but thankfully Mayumi refrained from such unnecessary act. She even promised to keep the secret for them too. But what she did next almost made the younger sister

"And what do we have here?" Mayumi grabbed some study notes on Satchiko's table.

"Mayumi, don't." Satchiko's words rang hollow as Mayumi scanned the study notes with great concentration. Her brows narrowed as she discovered how most information are far bellow the standards of what a university student should have.

Flimsy words written on pages redlects Satchiko's poor literacy skills. One look at Satchiko's notes is already enough to imply one thing. Nothing is going well with Satchiko's study here.

"We need to talk," Mayumi dropped her smile and changed her voice to a serious tone. Satchiko has been caught lying, and never has she felt so scared of Mayumi. She knew now would be appropriate to reveal everything about her progress here. And by progress, it's all wasted efforts to learn a skill far beyond her capacity.

...

"I can't believe you stopped a fight between those two students, very reckless as always sister." Mayumi commented, but is not baffled that conflict can be found inside here of all places. "Next time, don't do that. You should have let someone else handle it."

"It wasn't that difficult," Satchiko replied, hoping to ease Mayumi's concerns. They walked along a path, side by side. "I fought Earth benders a few times, and I learnt a few things. Those two were throwing rocks, damaging the surroundings and putting everyone in danger. If I don't step in, who would?"

So far, both sisters walked around the campus, with Satchiko being a sort of 'tour guide' as they both talked about what happened. They spend some time walking across a large stone bridge above a massive pond, stopping in the middle as they both looked at the pond fishes occasionally surfacing. The lily pads and lotus flowers decorated the crystal clear waters, and they spent time glamouring the pond.

Without their makeup, no one would know who they are. Following Mayumi's advice, having a bare face may prove more advantageous in case their wanted posters make it to the city.

"Hudie told me everything sister, about how you struggled to earth bend during class as well as how much burden you carry in the classrooms. I only wished you can be honest with me before." Mayumi spoke about Satchiko's deception, clearly made the latter ridden with guilt. But Mayumi herself is also unhappy with Satchiko's dishonesty, but not angered. "It's fine that you wanted to hide your hardship from me, but you need to know that concealing it will not be beneficial for you in the long term."

"I'm sorry," Satchiko rubbed her shoulders as she can no longer hide things from her sister. "How can I tell you that I am having difficulty studying here when you are washing dishes." She reasoned. "I was afraid you will be angry and be disappointed. I was scared you will I haven't tried hard enough."

"But you are trying your best aren't you?" Mayumi patted Satchiko's back.

Satchiko blinked, trying to understand Mayumi's viewpoint. The older sister then emphasized that there is no shame in failing as long as you gave it your all. The same goes with everything, try hard enough and eventually results will show itself.

"You were never the best student back in school, but that is ok. The lack of another Earth bender on our island definitely placed you at a disadvantage." Sighed Mayumi, who tried to dispel Satchiko's unhealthy self doubt. But it was met with counterargument, that Satchiko have a tendency to neglect her schooling back home, resulting in a poorer literacy skill. If only her sister have taken her education more seriously, then maybe she wouldn't be such a failure in understand the lessons today.

"I never took Akira's classes that seriously, I am such a meat head." Satchiko sulked, grasping the stone handrails. "Things would have been much different, if I have been a better person. I wish I was girl who did very well in class and never cause any trouble for family and friends. I would spend my whole day, reading and bettering myself until I am just as good as you Mayumi."

While that would meant Satchiko would give up her cheeky nature, it's better than failing her classes right?

"Let's just go." Now wishing to dwell on her sister's misery, Mayumi lead Satchiko off the bridge as they continued to pace randomly on the campus. "Let's not worry about things from the past and think about how we can move forward. Let's ask ourselves how you can improve. I do have an idea, and I want you to show me a place. Do you know where it is?"

"Where do you wanted me to show you?" Satchiko asked. Where could her sister possibly wanted to go? What could possibly compensate for her own lack of knowledge by not studying harder?

"The Keju examination."

Satchiko swallowed her throat hard as she heard that word. Over the couple of weeks, talks about this prominent examination is always prevalent. The students would talk about how difficult it is to even enter the examination in the first place, and how most examinees will fail passing it.

The nature of this civil servant exam is said to be very brutal, and that is an understatement. Attendees are placed into small living cells to complete what is known as a 'Eight legged essay'. For the duration of three days and two nights, participants must demonstrate their knowledge and merit by writing a world class essay related to governance.

Without inserting one's own thoughts, a person must reference and draw their knowledge from famous Earth Kingdom books and classics.

Important governing philosophies, doctrines, classical poetry, history, speeches of important historical figures such as Earth Kingdoms and officals who have contributed significantly to the nation's development. There are also various schools of thoughts in regards to morality and laws of the land, many of which are heavy topics that a little girl like her can never even comprehend.

But one thing that is constantly repeated is about the chronicles known as the 'Spring and Winter annul', a historical record found in the university's library which documented early Earth Kingdom history.

Just thinking about all the things these students must study gave Satchiko a massive headache. She don't need to place herself in the exam participants' shoes to feel the immense gravity and stress they are going through. Many worked their whole lives just for this moment, burdening the hopes and wishes of their families. She cannot even fathom what emotional devastation people will go through when they inevitably failed to pass and become a civil servant.

To put it simply, the Keju is a harsh examination. To tests a person's merit and knowledge of countless classical texts and historical records. The chances of passing is one in a thousand students. Even referencing one single wrong word of a text's quote is enough to fail and jeopardize their entire life's dedication. It crushes the hopes and dreams, demeaning all the investments people poured into preparation. And if the devastation of people's self-worth isn't enough, there were even instances where examinees would die during the exam...

People called the Keju the hardest exam in the world, and Satchiko totally agrees. No way can she even memorize one percent of the study materials that is examined.

...

Both girls arrived what seems to be the place where the examination is held, and already they can see signs of activity on the street. The exam location is at a grand palace building surrounded by a wall, large enough to house hundreds of people. The area is more secluded from the rest of the university, which meant it is quieter, allowing the students to write their essays in peace.

What astounded them more is how there are also armed guards nearby, securing the areas around the palace to make sure no one can disturb the procedures. One of them even used his earth bending to silence a chirping bird, whom he considered to be singing a bit too loud. It flew away after being frightened by a chunk of earth hitting the tree.

A lone commoner examinees stood in front of the entrance, he is the first one of out the massive line of people composed of scholars, students and even some people who appears to be sons of farmers. Many people from various background attend this exam of great prominence, all with the hope of getting a well paying job as a high ranking civil servant in the city's massive bureaucracy. From a distance, Satchiko can even see someone in blue fur clothing, a sign that even foreigners are allowed to enter.

The man stood still, ready to be inspected by the guards. They checked for his robe and bag, making sure there isn't a hidden cheat sheet or any materials can provide an unfair advantage. Punishments for bringing cheating materials is heavy. If the courthouse don't beat you to death, then conditions behind bars will.

Since attendees are going to spend three days inside a cell to write their essay, the only materials you bring are the ones you very needed. That would be brushes, ink and an inkstone. Guards also most verify a person's identify, before finally allowing them to proceed.

The pressure is thick in the air. The heat of the day itself is enough to damper the already tense spirit of everyone here.

"Don't worry my son!" A mother cried from the massive crowd of relatives. They are mostly here to support those partaking the exam. "No matter if you pass or not, I still love you!"

It's heartwarming to see this sight, clearly that man has gotten a huge morale boost. After the guards finished with their inspection, he stepped into the giant building and proceeded to the main hall.

"Next!" A guard bellowed. This time, it was a young man wearing white Changshan and have a pony tail haircut. On his shoulder is a small sack containing his supplies. He hand them to the guards, who begin to go through his bag without much care at all. But they immediately ceased their careless behavior when he snapped open a white paper fan, which depicted an image of a life like mountain.

"Oh my!" One of the sentries yelped. "Sorry, didn't know it was you, sir."

Sir?

Satchiko noticed the reaction of everyone near the entrance. Many widened their eyes just like the guards, and begin to murmur endlessly about that man in white clothing. They are not talking about him in a bad way, rather it was more of a sort of admiration.

"Who is that guy with the ponytail?" She asked cluelessly, looking at man who is standing tall and proud in the midst of all his exam competitors. "Why are they all behaving like he is some sort of-" She noticed Mayumi gazing at the man, as though her sister has met him before. "

"That's the person who gave me the umbrella," said Mayumi.

Whoever that person is, he definitely isn't an ordinary scholar. The moment he opened his fans, they all knew who he is. Satchiko can tell his status is quite high.

"He is probably just some son of a noble house in the upper ring," Mayumi shrugged. "I thought he was going to attack me, but he just gave me that umbrella."

Satchiko almost laughed at that suggestion. "Him? Attack you?" She looked again at the man who is about the same age as Mayumi, he is a student, not a warrior. It's ridiculous to think that someone as weak as him can hrm her sister. "What is he going to do? Nag you to death with knowledge?"

She was met with silence. Her sister watched as that gentleman finally entered the exam building.

"Hey," Satchiko gently gave Mayumi a nudge, finally bring her back to reality.

"Oh sorry sister," Mayumi then pointed at the massive crowd of students who are partaking the examination. She begin to explain to Satchiko the reason for coming here. Amongst the hundreds of participants who are attending the Keju, every single one of them are highly educated intellectuals who have a whole ocean of knowledge. The fact that they are even partaking in the world's hardest exam already implies them being the cream of the students. Meaning, any of them can lend Satchiko a helping hand.

"A private tutor!?" Satchiko gawked at that proposal. Her face frown, eye dropping to the floor. She begin to believe Mayumi no longer have faith in her studying." B-but, are you sure it's very necessary? I might be struggling a bit with the lessons, but are you sure I need a private teacher?"

"Yes!" The response was swift and blunt, straight to the point as Mayumi come to terms to the truth. No matter how Satchiko denies it, additional help is absolutely necessary at this point. "I have seen your study notes, and I don't even know how to read them. If we don't address your study problems, then your progress will be greatly hindered."

"But it will be expensive!" Satchiko reasoned. But deep down, she also wanted to prove that she can work hard and accomplish the results by herself. How can she allow someone else to do her work for her?

"I know, but that is none of your concerns." Mayumi sighed, and then nudged Satchiko's face so that they can look at each other with full eye contact. "I don't want you to fail the lessons. Earth bending is a gift not many have, I want you to master it. Not matter the cost. Besides, if you fail, it might mean staying here longer."

Satchiko became still as Mayumi mentioned that. The notion of staying longer inside this city, far away from home, is very terrifying. Not only is mastering Earth bending the goal for their entire journey, being able to learn it means Satchiko can become stronger entirely. Mayumi admits, that bending is an advantage that non-benders don't have. Which is why it is absolutely imperative for her to have a tutor.

They both picked up gallopong sound. A familiar looking carriage drawn by an ostrich horse entered the area. Out came Te Gaogui, that high class lady Mayumi have met before. Her presence alone is enough to build pressure. Words says that her intellectual prowess is on par with her stunning beauty.

"That is Te Gaogui, she is the daughter of the Te clan." Satchiko isn't sure why Mayumi is even explaining this, but listened on. "She helped me too, pretty nice person. When I walked in the middle of the road, I almost bumped into that carriage."

As the coachman placed a small wooden step for lady Te, Satchiko cannot help but feel compelled by the woman's appearance. Previously, Jargal claimed how the woman in Ba Sing Se are the prettiest. At first, she didn't believe that. In her eyes, her sister Mayumi is the only one who deserves that title. Yet, now she felt her claims are severely challenged. In this city, your looks and status are everything. Even the rings are divided into social classes. Looking at Te Gaogui, she cannot help but felt Mayumi is completely outclassed!

"No no no! Don't think that!" Satchiko slapped her own forehead, surprising her sister.

"Woah, what's wrong!" Mayumi inquired.

"Nothing!" Satchiko huffed. Curse that stupid hunter, for even suggesting that the girls of Ba Sing Se are better than her sister. But maybe she is just being childish. But still, in Ba Sing Se's fashion contest, Mayumi lost. The person who took the unofficial title of her village's prettiest girl, now meant nothing here. The bars are simply too high. And Te Gaogui definitely stood on the other side, the higher scale.

"You know," Mayumi begin softly and then curved her lip. It caught Satchiko by surprise, as Mayumi spoke as though she can read minds. "It actually feels great to not be the best looking girl for once."

It was an unexpected surprise, hearing such a statement from her sister. "How could you say that? You are the best looking and beautiful sister I can have! Satchiko raised her hands to counter Mayumi's outlandish claim. It's as if she has already given up.

"Sister, you misunderstood. What I truly meant was that it is good that men are not after me for my looks, for once. People always say, how they envy me and wish to also have my beauty. But they never know what it's like to be the prettiest person in town."

"But how is being the prettiest person bad?" Satchiko challenged. "You are literally the best looking one, and you are complaining?"

Mayumi sighed and pointed at the young woman of the prominent noble clan, directing her sister to observe closely. "Look at lady Te Gaogui, what is she to you?"

"Um, a person who have a good looking face?"

"Indeed, but that is not how most people saw it that way." Mayumi then told Satchiko to look at all the male students in the area, all are astounded and stifled by the immense beauty Te Gaogui is displaying. "All they ever cared about is looking at the face and her status. The benefits of taking her hand in marriage alone can reap many benefits, as the suitor can enjoy having powerful in-laws. It's absolutely fine that the men are attracted to her, but how they react to it matters."

"What do you mean?" Satchiko bare a very confused expression. They were talking about finding a tutor for her failing studies, but now the conversation has taken a very drastic turn. It seems that her sister is very keen to dive into the world of marriages and relationships, even though Mayumi herself may not be the wisest in this topic.

It's save to say that would be much better if someone more experienced to lead this discussion. Like their parents. Young people are absolutely clueless in this field. And sometimes, mistakes caused them their livelihoods.

Mayumi elaborated, much to Satchiko's slight annoyance. "What I am saying is that some people cared more about what they can gain by marrying someone. And usually, they worried less about how that other person feel. Te Gaogui is a person, she is beautiful beyond imagination, yet she also carries the same curse I have. What's the point of having so many people wanting to take your hand in marriage, if you don't even have any feelings for them?"

Satchiko gave her sister a sympathetic expression. She felt foolish for not realizing it sooner. While being the 'best looking' person in the village is a good thing, there are downsides.

The allure to gain favors and forge blood ties with both the chief and the Kyoshi warrior leader is of course extremely incentivizing. Such occurrence are rare and near impossible. Mayumi just so happens to be the oldest daughter of two very important figures of her home village, it's only natural that people will want to make good use of such opportunity. She is grateful that their parents don't force any decisions on Mayumi, allowing her sister to choose. But people like Te Gaogui may not be so lucky. Upper class households never entertain the notion of allowing people to choose anyone they wish. Someone like Te Gaoguo will be paired up with another man of great caliber, possibly some young spoiled brat from another wealthy household or something like that.

"Lady Te!" Mayumi walked up to the carriage and waved woth a smile. It surprised the noble lady, who couldn't recognize the Kyoshi warriors in makeup.

Mayumi bowed to demonstrate courtesy, and then quickly clarified that she is the same Kyoshi warrior a few weeks back.

"I wish you the best on the Keju Lady Te," Mayumi said with sincerely, believing that the heiress will accomplish great things on the examination. She knew the noble lady loathe flattery, which is why the sentence was kept short and direct.

"Thank you Kyoshi warrior, your encouragement is a blessing to me." Te Gaogui also bowed in response. To Satchiko, seeing this sight certainly breaks a few perceptions. On their whole journey here, all she ever saw the wealthy did was treat those below like roadside dirt. Yet, Mayumi is being seen as though she is an equal.

As the lines begin to slowly diminish, Te Gaogui walked towards the entrance to get pass inspection. Just like that man in white fancy robes, she too was being treated with the upmost respect by the guards.

Satchiko joined Mayumi's side as they both looked at the examination door being slwoly closed. Parents and families of those partaking in the exam gave their final encouragements. Well, Te Gaogui has the coachman, who cheered the loudest of them all. She knew how important this civil servant exam is to them. They prepared for their whole lives, all boiled down to this one moment. She is thankful that she never needed to go through such intense pressure and stress.

Mayumi now lead Satchiko away from the fortress like building. They discussed about Satchiko's course progression, and how desperately they needed someone to guide Satchiko in both books and bending.

"I do intend to ask Te Gaogui to be your tutor." Mayumi suggested. "She is smart, I am sure she will be of great assistance."

Truth is that Satchiko doesn't want to have a private tutor at all. It felt unfair to other students like Hudie, who have been doing well in class by just relaying on their own skills and knowledge. Yet, she also agree with Mayumi. If she doesn't pass the course and understand Earth bending, master Xuan Zang might ask her to study here longer. It's a hard pill to swallow, which is why she will gave Mayumi more control. But nothing is set in stone yet. Mayumi promised that if Satchiko is able to improve her grades and be proficient at Earth bending, then a private tutor won't be necessary.

"Does it have to be her?" Satchiko asked with skepticism, catching Mayumi off guard with what comes next. "She doesn't look like a person who can bend rocks. She is very smart, but can she teach me how to bend rocks too?"

Mayumi halted her steps, also realizing that Te Gaogui being a candidate might not be the best idea. The noble lady had long nail guards made of silver. For high classed society women, long nails were seen as a symbol of wealth as it meant they did not have to do manual labour. But, if that is the case, then does that mean Te Gaogui is not a bender? Even if she is, would she be proficient enough to be a teacher to Satchiko?

Mayumi failed to consider that. Allowing a non-bender to teach someone how to bend is like having a chef teaching a warrior how to swing swords. She clearly failed to consider this one factor.

"You don't need to worry a thing." Mayumi reassured both Satchiko and herself. "If Te Gaogui isn't a bender, I-I will just ask someone else."

"Who?"

Mayumi didn't respond, clearly there isn't enough options in the first place. She will have to find someone who is both very knowledgeable and a master at Earth bending to be save Satchiko's grades. But who? Who else besides Te Gaogui? They need to have both the prowess as a great scholar and can teach bending to Satchiko. While Hudie might also be a good candidate, a good student doesn't necessarily mean a good teacher. The Miao girl already tried her best, but Satchiko just cannot absorb anything at all.

One thing is certain, is that Mayumi will only choose the best option she can find. She will only pick the freshest cabbage in the mentor, the tallest apple in a tree. Only the brightest can be her sister's tutor, and she will not stop until Satchiko can master Earth bending.

...

He fanned himself as he entered through the entrance. Underneath his exquisite changshan, the heat can be a bit of a hinderance. Walking on the path to the main building hall, he noticed a student dressed in a simple green garment.

What a rare find, he thought to himself. A mere peasant from the lower ring standing toe to toe with society's brightest students. He must be very pleased that he even made it this far.

But the man in front of him just stood there, afraid to take another step to the main hall. While he might have went through many previous examinations from the other districts, this final trial may be his doom. Commoners have the greatest challenge during the Keju. Less preparation and financial situation often meant their results are far below than those from wealthy families. But technically not impossible...

Alone with a few hundred others who are also after civil servant positions, his competition are fierce. Talented commoners, intelligent librarians, knowledge foreigners, all wish to compete for the top spot. But he knew well that the real threat are those from wealthy families.

While the Keju examination is created with the aim of choosing the best candidates regardless of backgrounds, he understands that even this meritocratic process has its flaws. While it is legally possible for commoners and foreigners to be accepted as government officials, those from powerful and wealthy households definitely have an advantage. Their sons and daughters have better resources and money to support their education. No matter how fair a system may be, there will always be something that taints it.

What is worse is that the exam by nature is unforgiving. It provided a great legal opportunity for lower ring citizens to advance to the very top. But it is still very difficult for those from lower socioeconomic status.

"Don't worry my son!" A mother yelled from the top of her lungs. "Just go for it! Hard work meant good results, you will surely pass!"

The lower ring student turned his head to the entrance and saw the woman waving a wooden sign of encouragement. You can do it! This alone made the boy regain his confidence. No longer was he trembling and wavering in fear, he took one giant step towards the reception hall, and another, until he begin to walk normally to where the examination will take place.

The mere presence of family alone can provide a great morale boost just like how a charismatic general can inspire his troops before battle. And by seeing that boy renewing his resolve gave the man in white changshan a conclusion for this moment.

Pathetic

What a foolish boy, he thought. Mere encouragements from family does not increase the chance of your success. It's just an illusion, to mask your own fears while no improving your chances of success.

He stood there, watching his fellow attendee entered the hall. The lower ring student is now overflowing with courage and the will to push forward no matter what obstacles are thrown at him.

"Sigh," he fanned himself even more and shake his head. That person in front of him will never pass, and he knew it well. There are hundreds of students, all chosen for their brilliant minds that far exceeded the average scholar. But the harsh and painful truth is that each year, only a minor few can actually pass the examination.

If an attendee fails, they can never get a second chance to resit. Putting yourself through this examination is like believing a camelphant can go through the ring of needle. There is less than ninty-nine chance that you will not pass. Which is why looking at that boy and his encouraging mother makes him know the fabric of the cruel reality will pierce through their walls once the Keju is over.

It's all futile.

"So, we finally meet." He heard Te Gaogui's soft voice behind him, demanding attention. But he didn't turn around immediately, rather he allowed Te Gaogui to introduce herself first. While subtle, many will see his assertion as a way to establish himself higher than this noble lady, which isn't far from the truth. "I heard many things about you, and I should have expect that you too would be after what I want."

He finally turned around, putting his hands together and bowed. But Te Gaogui did not bow back, the difference in status didn't require her to do so.

"Lady Te's infinite beauty stifles the hearts of all men in this world. With such unparalleled trait, why should a woman relegate herself to partake in the world of pen and paper? I am sure you will find greater purpose with your enchanting appearance alone." His words may sound flattering, but they are not. Te Gaogui knows this. They are actually an insult, produced by highly cultured men where the uneducated can't even understand it.

But the noble lady paid no heed to such comments. After all, this man before her is actually a prize too. A near unattainable one, even for her...

"I would like to apologize first hand, but the title of the most esteemed Zhuangyuan can only be administered to one person and that would be yours truly." He warned, leaving no room to compromise at all.

The Keju is held every three years, and no one wants to be friendly with their competitors. It's already near impossible for a person to pass, let alone compete for the top spots. While many who passed would be content to just receive the highest and final degree of the examination, there are some that are even more ambitious.

One must possess an unrivaled intelligence in order to attain the top three graduate titles.

Third place is the Tanhua.

Second place is Bangyan.

But the first and highest title overshadows both of them. It is a title given to the scholar who achieved the highest score on highest level of the exam. Being called by the title alone is enough to grant you prestige even the most wealthy upper ring citizen can only dream of.

That would be the Zhuangyuan. People with such titles are extremely rare. Many described their academic prowess as though they stood on the tallest mountains, looking down at everyone else.

And that is what he wanted, and lady Te Gaogui will not take this away from him.

"How bold," Te Gaogui replied like the elegant woman she has is. "And arrogant." She fiddled her nail guards, as though she is a tiger brandishing its claws. "But you certainly have the skills to back your words up, and I would be foolish to underestimate you."

She then walked towards the main hall, and then spoke to him without looking back. "Mountains, no matter how high they are, will always be blind of its bases. Even the tallest peaks will fall if the foundation is weak."

He ignored her threats. He knew what she meant, but even so, that will not allow him to take what he deserves.

...

After all the attendees were assigned their rooms, he finally arrived to his. Upon entering, he found a table, a chair as well as a bed which he will be using for two nights.

After resting his supplies on the desk, he begin to unroll the empty parchment that is given to him.

One plank piece of paper. In the span of three days, he will turn it into the best essay the examiners will ever lay their eyes across. A world class thesis, composed using the greatest classics and books the Earth Kingdom have created throughout its history.

He poured the liquid onto his inkstone. Drenching his calligraphy brush into it, his nose easily picked up the dense smell of fresh ink. Gently holding the brush, he finally begin. Words begin to form on the page, and sentences start to organize themselves into formation.

He has wrote many books before, and what he is doing now isn't hard for him either. Even without any support, he can still write an essay that will astound even the university master Xuan Zang.

His ambition knows no bound, it can never be quenched. But, he can still enjoy the fruit of his labor, even if those feelings are temporary after he passed this exam.

Author's notes:

-The Keju exam is a real thing, very difficult to pass. Now, I don't think I did a very good job at writing the stress people go through before taking such examination. So a good way to imagine the pressure would similar to the hardest, most important, highest stake and most stressful exam you ever partake in. Remember those feelings and then dial up all the pain to one hundred. Very, very scary. [

Post chapter skit: We did it!

A lone knight in shiny army stood in the middle of a desolated battlefield. All around him are fallen enemies, dark evil minions of the even more eviler overlord villains that will definitely not show up in future chapters.

With a sword in one hand, and a banner in another. The knight slowly climbed onto a hill that overlooks the plain. They did, they can achieved victory. The knight shall plant this banner on this hill, to commentate all the sacrifices and trials of the allies.

The flag has been planted. As though it too recognized the victory, the wind begin to pick, flying the flag in a victorious manner. As the sun slowly rises from the mountains, hopeful rays of the sun pierced through the dark and gloomy clouds.

The knight saw all of this, and raised his sword. Declaring this monumental day as the battle have been won over the evil entity called-

"Are you kidding me!" The voice of a mad young girl screamed.

A golden war fan pelted the knight's helmet. Despite the protection, the warrior is still mortally wounded by the decisive blow.

After falling forward into the ground, the knight's face is buried into the mud.

"How os this supposed to be a victory?" Satchiko yelled with a stern expression. She came marching up the hill and delivered a kick to the knight's body. "You subjected the readers to fifty chapters, slowly story pacing and even some questionable writing style. And after all this time, they have to endure the wrath of autocorrect. Yet, it took you this long to realize you can just TURN IT OFF?! UNBELIEVABLE! Now, what do you have to say to the people reading this?"

The knight raised its hand and begin to write in the expanse of the ground near him. As Satchiko crossed her arms, she begin to vaguely make out the words written by the knight.

We did it!

"What is that supposed to mean?" Satchiko twitched her eyebrows. But before she can even ask, the sound of a joyful piano took her the atmosphere. The knight quickly stood up from the ground as a group of individuals arrived on the scene.

A little girl with backpack, along with a monkey in red boots run to where Satchiko is standing. They are joined by an orange fox with blue rag concealing his eyes as well a dark blue bull.

All of them begin to dance, and the knight joined them. They swing their hands left and right, leaving Satchiko dumbfounded wondering what is going on. The music continues, leaving her just standing there.

Everyone: We did it!

Dora: We did it!

Boots: We did it!

Everyone: Yeah!

Backpack: Lo hicimos!

Map: We did it!

Piano solo

Dora: The writer disabled the autocorrect.

Everyone: We did it!

Dora: We did it!

Boots: We did it!

Everyone: Hooray!

Swiper: From now on the writing will be more direct.

Everyone: We did it!

Boots: We did it!

Dora: We did it!

Swiper: We did it!

Boots: We thank you fans for reading to this far!

Dora: And we promise to push the writing to the star!

Benny: Yeah!

Dora: Whoo!

Boots: Hooray!

Everyone: Weeeeeee, did it!

The song ended, and Satchiko facepalmed herself. So disappointed, that her palm can be seen from the other side of her head.

"Unbelievable," she muttered.