Off in the distance Aang could see the massive ice wall adorned with the Water Tribe's crest across it.
Wow this is amazing, Aang mused as he began to realize that he had taken a giant leap forward towards attaining his goal of becoming a Waterbender. His thoughts drifted towards his friends Katara and Sokka. I hope they found what they were looking for; Aang thought. Katara would have loved to see this.
These thoughts immediately disappeared and were replaced with wonder as a portion of the wall melted away to reveal a passage into the city. The Northern Water Tribe was filled with canals and water ways, beautifully crafted bridges, and multi-level homes. Even more amazing were the shear number of people who lived there; bustling around the markets and various homes as Appa floated towards the palace.
"Details Twinkle Toes, what's going on!" Toph yelled at Aang as she attempted to hit him over the back of the head, missing completely and tumbling forward.
Aang, choosing not to further agitate Toph by laughing, decided to begin to describe everything he saw to Toph who sat back and listened intently.
Aang had noticed that people were staring, understandably so, at what they were seeing. A giant beast floating down their canal, a blind arthbender, and a child adorned in blue arrow tattoos. We must be a site to see; Aang thought as they made the final turn to the palace courtyard.
They were both whisked away into the palace and brought to quarters while they waited for the water tribe chief to see them. The quarters Aang was provided overlooked the entire city. Aang stood in awe at the sheer beauty that was displayed in front of him. A staunch contrast to what he had seen in the Southern Water Tribe. The Northern Water Tribe looked completely untouched by the war that was going on around them. This could clearly be seen by the prosperity that was put on full display. Seeing this made Aang even more determined to reach his goal of mastering all four elements.
I need to make things right for the rest of the world, I need to end this war, I need to master all four elements… I need to be the Avatar… He thought, a look of determination on his face. At this, someone knocked on his door. "The chief would like to host you for dinner to celebrate your arrival, please follow me". At this Aang nodded and followed the guard to the main hall.
He was joined by Toph at the stairs, both walking in unison. "Find any earth yet Toph"? Aang asked.
At this, Toph blew hair off her face in frustration "No, but the guard promised to take me to some after dinner… lets get this done and over with" she said in exasperation.
Aang rolled his eyes at this, quickly realizing she couldn't read his body language he face-palmed and replied "Sure Toph, after dinner I'll join you."
When the main doors to the hall were opened in front of Aang and Toph, it revealed a beautiful table filled with delicious foods, looking up Aang saw a backdrop of a waterfall behind the throne. Quickly composing himself, he made eye contact with the chief who smiled at him.
Aang closed the distance, bowing in respect as he faced the chief.
"This honor is all mine Avatar… we thought the Avatar was lost 100 years ago… but here you are in front of me now." He said.
"Thank you for your hospitality and for allowing us a place to stay in your palace. My name is Aang and this is Toph, we have come a great distance in search of the Northern Water Tribe".
The chief nodded at this; "my name is Arnook, I am the chief of the Northern Water Tribe and you are welcome to stay as long as you desire" Arnook spoke. "Let us eat together to celebrate your return".
At this, Chief Arnook gestured to two seats situated directly to the right of him. To his left was a beautiful young woman. Must be his daughter. Aang thought. Seated directly next to her was an older man, quiet with piercing eyes.
As they were all seated, Arnook introduced the pair to his daughter Yue and Master Waterbender Pakku. At this Aang straightened in his seat. This is perfect! Aang thought. I can learn from a Master Waterbender.
"Chief Arnook and Master Pakku, as you know; as the Avatar I must master all four elements to defeat the Fire Lord and restore balance to the world" Aang began. "I have come to the Northern Water Tribe to learn Waterbending" Aang continued as he looked directly at Master Pakku now "Master it would be an honor to learn Waterbending from you…"
At this Master Pakku was silent, sipping his tea. Aang awaited a response.
"No" Master Pakku said.
"NO?!" Both Aang and Toph said exasperatedly.
"No" Master Pakku repeated "I will not teach you".
At this Aang was shocked into silence.
Master Pakku began to stand, bowing at the Chief. "If you would excuse me". At this, Master Pakku made his exit. Everyone at the table was silent, shocked by the unexpected turn of events.
Yue turned to Aang, trying her best to smile and said: "welcome to the Northern Water Tribe Avatar".