Avenging Avatar Book 2- Earth

by TheWriterForGod42

After defeating the Fire Nation and starting to master the element of water, Aang, Steve, Sokka, Thor, Momo, Appa, Katara and Natasha all head back to the Earth Kingdom to both look for the remaining three Avengers while trying to find Aang an earthbending teacher. But the combined forces of the Fire Nation and Hydra will throw all they have at the group.

21. Chapter 21: The Guru

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Avatar the Last Airbender or the Avengers (MCU), only the story. Avatar the Last Airbender and its characters belongs to Nickelodeon and Avengers belongs to Marvel. I apologize for any errors in grammar and/or if I was not accurate in reference to something.

A/N: And here we begin Part 1 of Book 2's finale. I do have some explanations as to why things happened this way, so just read and find out.

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Katara: Water, Soldier, Mechanist, God, Earth, Fire, Spy, Archer, Monster, Air

(One by one, eight figures do something to show off their skills: the Waterbender weaves a stream of water from the ground, around him and then thrusts it towards the side, the soldier blocks an attack with his shield before throwing it, the mechanist has armor envelope him and then uses the repulsor on his hand to blast something on the side, the god holds a powerful hammer high to summon a bolt of lightning, the Earthbender kicks the ground bringing up a large rock before he kicks it away, the Firebender twists around as she summons fire from her foot before doing a high kick to the ground and makes the flames spread, the spy drops down from above and displays a few moves, the archer rolls across the ground and fires a few arrows, and finally the monster comes down from a jump and smashes his huge fists on the ground, the Airbender drops down and then with a circle of his arms he creates a blast of wind.)

Katara: Long ago, the four nations lived together in harmony. Then everything changed when the Fire Nation attacked.

(Docked on a shore, five Fire Nation ships with the Hydra insignia released their soldiers. With a jump forward and a palm thrust, the firebenders released a wave of fire as the Hydra soldiers used their advanced technology.)

Katara: Only the Avatar, master of all four elements could stop them. But when the world needed him most, he vanished.

(The Avatar, a man with a crown on his head and dressed in robes stands on a pillar of stone as he bent the four elements of water, earth, fire and air to show his skill in the arts of bending. After releasing a powerful disk of wind, he disappears from existence.)

Katara: A hundred years passed and my brother and I discovered the new Avatar: an Airbender named Aang and met the team called the Avengers.

(The water tribe siblings find a young Airbender frozen in block of ice. After freeing him, they are then joined by heroes called Captain America, Ironman, Thor, Hulk, Clint, and Natasha.)

Katara: And although with the teams help and his airbending skills are great, he has a lot to learn before he's ready to save anyone.

(At an Air Nomad path, Aang creates an air scooter and starts to have fun with it. But when he expands his circle a little bit, he runs right into a statue. He rolls over onto his back as all six of the Avengers then poke their heads from behind the statue to check on him.)

Katara: But I believe the Avengers and Aang can save the world.

(Aang, Steve, Katara, Tony, Thor, Bruce, Sokka, Clint, Toph and Natasha stand side by side, looking down at the world on a mountain's peak for a moment as the reader's view is turned upwards to the sun.)

Nickelodeon and Marvel

The Avenging Avatar

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Avatar Roku: Previously, on Avenging Avatar…

"There's a man living at the Eastern Air Temple." Aang excitedly said about meeting the man that had helped Appa and Natasha when they were at the temple, "He says that he can teach me to control the Avatar State."

The next morning, Aang, Sokka, Natasha, Bruce, Johnny, Sam and Rhodey took off on Appa while the Guardians flew the Milano towards the Outer Wall. The rest of the group remained behind to watch over the city.

"What's happening?" A sickly Zuko asked while Tony and Iroh were watching over him. Iroh explained to his nephew, "You are going through a metamorphosis, my nephew."

"The Dai Li remains loyal to you, Long Feng, sir." An agent said after bringing Long Feng his dinner. Long Feng had a grin as he knew that he still had a foot hold in the city.

At where they thought her mother was, Toph and Clint walked in through the front door. Toph called out, "Hello? Mom?"

The two noticed how bare the place was, and Toph suddenly sensed something. Toph was caught off guard when a cage of metal dropped down on her while Clint was hit in the back with a rock. After a quick fight, Clint yelled as he was dropped into the river by Xin Fu.

Later that day, Earth King Kuei stood with guards and Dai Li agents to welcome five warriors. The Earth King welcomed with open arms, "It is with the highest honor that I welcome the Kyoshi Warriors."

"We are the Earth King's humble servants." A disguised Azula said when she and the other four raised their heads.

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Book Two: Earth

Chapter Twenty-One: Crossroads Part 1: The Guru

A peaceful new day came about the city of Ba Sing Se, especially in the Upper Ring. A day or so had passed since Zuko's illness and the three had managed to move to their new apartment. The apartment that they had moved into was a great deal nicer than the one in the Lower Ring. Tony and Iroh were currently in the kitchen getting ready for the day when they heard the sliding of a door. Tony glanced back to see Zuko walking in and asked, "Hey, kid. Sleep well?"

"I did, thanks." Zuko nodded before yawning. A smell came to his nose and he asked, "What is that?"

"Well, Iroh thought to make a balanced breakfast before we get to work today." Tony said, thinking that Zuko wouldn't be too happy about it. Iroh then said, "It's jook. I'm sure you wouldn't like it."

Iroh allowed some of it to fall of the spoon and back into the pot with a plop. Zuko walked around the two and leaned a little to the pot to get a better whiff of it. A smile came across his face when he picked up a bowl, "Actually, it smells quite delicious. I'd love a bowl, Uncle."

That surprised both men, finding it a little odd. But they rolled with it as Iroh used the ladle to pour Zuko some. He then said, "Now that your fever is gone and you seem a lot better, you seem different somehow."

"I think that he's just in a better mood today." Tony guessed while Zuko took his bowl of jook to the table. He sat down and said, "I feel great. And it's a new day.

"We've got a new apartment, nicer furniture…" Zuko started to list the good things. His smile seemed to grow wider when he said, "And today's the grand opening of your new tea shop.

"Things are looking up for us, you guys." Zuko said when he took a sip of the jook. Tony nodded and said, "Yeah. They are."

Both former Fire Nation men looked to him and noticed the look on his face. They guessed what he was thinking about. Iroh then said, "Tony, if you need to go and find your friends, then we have no reason to stop you."

"I would." Tony nodded. But then he shook his head, "But I'm not so sure that now's the right time."

"What do you mean? Why not?" Zuko asked him. Tony explained himself, "Because I haven't exactly figured out how I'm going to explain everything to them. I'd rather not have another incident like we had with Jet. And who knows how they'll take it.

"The whole city could come after you guys if this isn't done right." Tony said, not wanting anything bad to happen to them. Zuko then offered, "Well, if you do decide what you'll do, then we'll support you, you know."

"Thanks." Tony smiled, appreciating what they were doing. A smile grew on Iroh's face as he poured a couple more bowls and brought one for himself and Tony.

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Elsewhere over the Earth Kingdom country, a growling Appa and Sam and Rhodey flew over the landscape. When they saw Chameleon Bay fast approaching, they began their descent. They landed on the cliff that overlooked the bay and could see a collection of Southern Water Tribe ships against the shore. Aang looked to Sokka as he said, "You haven't seen your dad in over two years. You must be so excited."

"I know I'd be." Natasha said, thinking of the man who helped raise her before she was drafted. They all became surprised when they saw that Sokka was trying to keep himself from throwing up. He took a deep breath before saying, "I know that I should be, but I just feel really sick to my stomach."

"Could be all that you ate the previous night at camp." Sam cracked with a grin. That just made the teen shoot him with a glare. Aang supported his friend by saying, "Don't be nervous. He's going to be so happy to see you after all this time."

"And we're here to support you." Natasha said, gesturing to her, Sam and Rhodey while patting Sokka on the shoulder. Sokka smiled before looking to the three who still had a ways to go, "So what about you guys? Are you nervous to meet this guru?"

"I'm not at all." Aang shook his head. He looked determined when he said, "I'm ready to master the Avatar State. I'll do whatever it takes."

"I'm still curious about how he knows about the two of us." Johnny said looking to Bruce. Bruce shrugged when he said, "Maybe it has something to do with our other halves."

"Maybe." Johnny said, thinking that he was right. Sokka and Natasha both slid off of Appa and the four backed away from the bison. Aang bid them farewell, "See you all in a week. Yip, yip."

They waved to them as Appa took off and flew from the cliff with a low roar. When they were gone, Sokka turned to look down at the Water Tribe camp. Still feeling a little nervous, he took a deep breath and started to make his way down towards the camp. The three behind him looked to each other and Sam said, "Yeah, I think the kid's going to be fine."

The other two nodded and followed after him.

…

They reached the beach and walked along the cliffside before coming upon the camp. The warriors who were out and about saw them coming. At first they were wary of the three behind Sokka due to how they were dressed. Sokka was quick to ease the tension by saying, "It's okay. They're with me."

The Southern Water Tribe warriors looked to each other before they calmed down. The four continued through the camp before they were stopped by four warriors. They seemed to look a little mean and Sokka and his friends stood their ground. But a smile formed on the lead warrior's face as he extended an arm to Sokka. Sokka grasped it as all the other Water Tribe Warriors started laughing amongst themselves. They gathered around as one said, "Sokka, it's so good to see you again."

"And I see you've brought some new friends." Another said while lightly rubbing the top of the teen's head. Sokka just laughed as he moved out of range and said, "These are some friends of mine, Natasha Romanoff, Sam Wilson and James Rhodes."

"Pleasure to meet you." Rhodey waved to them. One of the other warriors then said, "I think all of us know why you're here, Sokka."

The four looked to the warriors with wide eyes. The Southern Tribe warriors moved out of the way towards the biggest tent in the camp. Figuring that's where his father was, Sokka walked towards it with the three behind him following close behind. When he was but a foot or two from the opening, Sokka stopped, still feeling a little nervous. Natasha came up to him and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder when she said, "Remember. He's going to be happy to see you and we're here to back you up."

"Right." Sokka nodded before going into the tent. He pulled the flaps open and inside the tent were a few other Southern Water Tribe warriors. One of which was Bato who was kneeling next to a man that was contemplating their next move. Bato raised his head and saw Sokka standing there with a small grin. With a small smile of his own he nudged the man looing over the map to get his attention. The man, Hakoda, raised his head to see what was going on. When Bato pointed ahead. Hakoda looked and became surprised by whom he saw. But a smile replaced his look when he said, "Sokka."

"Hi, Dad." Sokka greeted back and Hakoda stood up. The two then met in the middle and embraced each other. For the first time in over two years, Sokka felt as if his family was a little more complete again. Natasha, Sam and Rhodey all watched with grins, happy for their friend.

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Over at the Outer Wall, the six, well five, of the Guardians of the Galaxy were currently working to help dismantle the Fire Nation and Hydra's drill. While most of the Earthbenders were using their earthbending to pry loose metal paneling, others were using what tools they had to remove parts. The guardians were using their own tools from the Milano to help dismantle what they could. Rocket looked over to the others and asked, "Why can't we just set explosives and blow this thing sky high?"

"Do you really need us to elaborate on that?" Gamora questioned as she walked by with some pipes in her arms. Quill then answered the question by saying, "If we do that, then the enemies of these guys will just use the hole to get to the city."

"So, we could just fight them off." Rocket shrugged. Drax looked over after ripping off a panel and said, "I would be okay with that."

"I am Groot." Groot rolled his eyes from up on his spot above the others. They soon stopped talking and continued to work on what they were doing.

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Around Lake Laogai, Wade, Eddie and Peter were currently working with some guards from the city to look for any traces of the Dai Li's whereabouts. They had brought Fae with them to see if she could help with the girls still under the thrall of the organization. The Earthbenders of the group were tasked to see if they could locate any tunnels that the Dai Li while the heroes and Fae looked around. Eddie looked to Fae and asked, "How would you get here? Would the Dai Li bring you through the opening or another way?"

"I'm not sure." Fae shook her head. Then she added, "Usually we came in via a cart."

"So there could be a way for carts to get in, right?" Peter asked her. She shrugged, thinking that it could be the case. The captain of the group had heard what had been said. He turned to them and said, "I'll have our forces scour around the lake side, seeing if there are caves or manmade openings big enough for carts to be pulled through."

"You do that, mountain man." Wade nodded, earning an eye roll from just about everyone there. The captain moved to go and relay the orders to the others.

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At the Earth King's palace, Earth King Kuei and Bosco were sitting on the dais. Down before the steps to the throne were Azula, Mai, Ty Lee, Scarlet Widow and Shriek in their stolen Kyoshi Warrior disguises. The Earth King looked to his beloved pet bear and said with a big grin, "Look, Bosco. The Kyoshi warriors are here to protect us.

"Aren't you excited?" He asked while playfully pulling on the bear's cheeks. Bosco's reply to this was a yawn before laying his head down on the arm rest of the throne room. Earth King Kuei looked to the girls and told them, "It's been a very difficult week for me. My most trusted advisor, Long Feng, and his Dai Li agents, tried to take control of Ba Sing Se right out from under men."

"It's terrible when you can't trust the people who are closest to you." Azula said while the other four looked to her with knowing glances. The Earth King petted his beloved bear's head when he said, "But there is some good news. As we speak, the Council of Five is meeting to plan an invasion of the Fire Nation this summer…

"On the day of a solar eclipse with friends of the Avatar known as the Avengers." His news caused Azula's eyes to widen. But she managed to keep her emotions in check by saying, "Really? Now that sounds like a fascinating and brilliant plan."

The four behind her all looked to each other, knowing that they could really turn the tide of the war with this information.

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In a towering building across the city that served as a military unit for Ba Sing Se, Steve and Katara sat with the Council of Five at a large table with the map of the Four Nations. The generals took up one side of the table while Steve and Katara sat on the other side. General How explained how they would proceed, "General Fong's base will serve as the launching point for the attack.

"In exactly two months, the army and navy of the Earth Kingdom will invade the Fire Nation on the Day of Black Sun." He finished when he moved a trio of green pieces representing the Earth Kingdom across the map. They stopped before a single red piece that represented the Fire Nation. A chittering Momo suddenly came in and started knocking all of the pieces down. Katara laughed as she joked, "Or we could just send in Momo to do some damage.

"Cause of the…" She started to say when she looked to everyone. None of the generals nor Steve seemed to find it funny at the moment. The super soldier leaned to her and said, "I know that it may seem funny now, but we do need to keep our heads in the game with this."

"Uh, right. Sorry" Katara said, feeling a little embarrassed. Steve gave her an understanding pat on the shoulder. General How then used his earthbending to right the pieces up by clenching a fist, scaring Momo to where he scurried back over to Katara and Steve. The general looked to Steve and said, "Due to the involvement of Hydra, we'll need you to help us prepare for them."

"Yes, sir." Steve nodded, knowing that his and the group's info on how Hydra operated would be crucial. Steve then asked, "And if it's not too much trouble to ask, sir…

"Perhaps we can gather up extra warriors for the invasion. Whether they be from the Earth Kingdom or the Water Tribes." He requested. General How quirked a brow, curious as to what the super soldier had to say, "Your reason?"

"There are a lot of people out in the Earth Kingdom and the Water Tribes who want this conflict to end." Steve started. He rose to his feet and looked over the map. He continued when he said, "And due to the Fire Nation having extra soldiers by Hydra, then I don't think the Earth Kingdom will be enough. And I've seen brave souls throughout my travels in your world."

"Steve's right." Katara agreed. Then she quoted, "As a friend of mine said before he went to Lake Laogai, a single grain of rice can tip the scales."

"Who told you that?" Steve asked. Katara shrugged when she said, "Wade told me. He said that it would be crucial to this moment for some reason."

"Well, he does have a point." Steve nodded. General How stroked his beard before saying, "We'll consider this proposal. But to get ourselves up and running for the invasion…

"All we need is the Earth King's seal on this in order to execute the plan." He added while setting a scroll down on the side of the table. Then with a swipe of his right hand, he sent a slab of the table over to the two and Katara picked it up. She picked it up and said, "We'll get these scrolls to him right away. Thank you, generals."

Steve started to get up as well when General How stopped him, "Captain Rogers, a moment of your time."

"Go on ahead, Katara." Steve said before sitting back down. Katara then asked him, "Meet you back at the house?"

"Hm." Steve nodded and Katara turned to run out of the war room. When she was gone, the super soldier turned back to the Council of Five and asked, "Is there anything else, sir?"

"Actually, there is." General Sung nodded. Looking over his fellow generals he said, "We were hoping that you would go ahead and discuss any surprises that Hydra may have up their sleeves."

"There are somethings you need to know." Steve agreed. Then he reminded, "You know of the group of individuals that was with the princess during the drill."

General Sung nodded, remembering how his forces had been decimated by the agents. Steve then said, "During their invasion of the North Pole, Hydra had reclaimed one of their operatives and my friend Bucky."

"He's one of them and he's your friend?" General How questioned. Then he requested, "Please explain."

"I'll do the best that I can." Steve nodded, but still planned to make it clear that Bucky wasn't like the Fire Nation or Hydra.

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The sun was starting to set when the trio on Appa reached the mountainous range of the Eastern Air Nomad lands. The bison gave a low growl as he flew past the many mountain peaks. It didn't take long for Aang to spot the temple and pointed, "There it is!"

Bruce and Johnny looked to see the temple coming up. Johnny noticed something on the raised platforms of the temple and asked, "What's that?"

The other two looked down to see a man sitting near the edge of the platform. From the looks of it he was meditating. Aang smiled, "That must be the guru from the letter."

"I think we can touch down below him." Bruce suggested and Aang nodded. Appa descended onto the path that led from the Guru to the temple. Aang looked up to the man above them and asked, "Um, hello?"

When the guru didn't say anything, Aang, Bruce and Johnny all slipped down from the bison. They came up onto the platform and stood a few feet from the guru. Aang then asked, "You're Guru Pathik, right? The person who attached the note to Appa's horn."

"Indeed." Guru Pathik confirmed this without opening his eyes. He surprised them when he said, "I was a spiritual brother of your people and a personal friend of Monk Gyatso."

Hearing his guardian's name caused Aang's face to fall for a moment. But it kind of confused the three when Bruce asked, "You knew the Air Nomads and Monk Gyatso?"

"How old are you exactly?" Johnny asked in bewilderment. The guru had a smile on his face as he said, "Oh, just around a hundred and fifty or so."

That made all three looked at him with wide eyes. Shaking his head to clear it, Aang then asked, "In your note, you said that you could help the three of us gain control of our other halves. How?"

"I can teach you how to control yourself while in the Avatar State, yes." Guru Pathik said and gestured to Aang. But then he looked to the two otherworldly men and said, "As for the two of you, I know how to help you find inner peace with your other halves."

"What does that mean?" Johnny asked him. The guru then asked, "First allow me to ask you this, Johnny. Ever since arriving to this world, the spirit of the Rider has been feeling a lot more agitated, correct."

"Mm." Johnny nodded, knowing that it was best to come out with the truth. Guru Pathik then explained, "The reason for this is because this world is actually a lot more in tune with the spiritual world than that of your own." Then he shrugged when he added, "In a sense anyway.

"The Rider feels so much stronger here." He added. Then he warned, "And if you do not stay connected with it, the Rider will get out of hand and it will lead to disastrous consequences."

"And me?" Bruce asked him and the three sat down across from the Guru. Guru Pathik then told him, "You are always constantly at war with yourself. Ever since the Hulk came into being, you have been treating yourself as if you are something to be ashamed of, to be locked away and never come out into the light.

"The three of you must gain balance within yourselves before you can bring balance to both worlds or the universe." The Guru told them. Then he offered, "And the first step to gaining this balance begins with this."

He presented them each with a cup of yellow liquid. Aang, Bruce and Johnny all took a cup and the guru instructed, "Drink up."

They each took a sip of their cups, but both Aang and Johnny spat theirs out in disgust. Aang shuttered when he said, "It tastes like onion and banana juice."

"Ugh, why did you make this?" Johnny groaned while wiping his mouth. But Bruce didn't seem to have a problem with it as he drank his cup dry. When he was done he smacked his lips and said, "It has quite a taste to it."

"Doesn't it?" Guru Pathik said with a smile before downing his own cup of the stuff. When it was empty, the guru lightly shook it over his head to show that it was completely empty. Both Aang and Johnny looked to them with odd looks while Guru Pathik only chuckled.

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Elsewhere in the Earth Kingdom, Xin Fu and Master Yu had made it out of the city with their captive in the cage. They had managed to secure an ostrich-horse and a cart for the trip. They had gotten outside of the Outer Wall and were on a path back to the Bei Fong estate. But as they had come to a fork in the road, Master Yu looked to his comrade and said, "I believe we need to go right."

"What are you talking about?" Xin Fu argued as he stopped the cart. Gesturing to the path ahead of them he said, "The Bei Fong estate is clearly this way."

"I'm quite certain that you're mistaken." Master Fu disagreed with a wave of his hand. They were both slightly startled when Toph pounded on the wall of the cage and yelled, "Hey! Can you two old ladies quit your bickering for a second? I've got to go to the bathroom!"

"Oh, uh…" Master Fu said, not thinking about this part of the trip. He pulled out a key and told her, "Okay, but make it quick."

But as he got up to unlock the cage, Xin Fu stopped him by grabbing his arm. Then he questioned, "What the heck's wrong with you?"

"Hm?" Master Fu asked, not understanding his frustration. Then it dawned on him and looked back to the cage, "Oh, very sneaky, Toph.

"Nice try, but you can't trick me." He taunted before putting the key away. Toph started banging on the cage again and demanded, "Let me out of here so that I can kick both of your butts! And what did you do with Clint?"

"Quit your banging!" Xin Fu yelled as he slammed his fist against the cage. Then he said with a grin, "Your friend decided to go for a little swim in the city. As for you…

"You might think you're the greatest Earthbender in the world, but even you can't bend metal." He taunted before flicking the reins to get them going again. The cart started moving again and while Toph was worried about Clint, she knew that she needed to get out of here. She placed her hand against the metal side of the cage and an idea started to form.

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Back in the city, Clint had managed to drag himself out of the river and onto a bridge. He coughed from any of the water that might have gotten in before taking a deep breath. The archer glared when he said, "Hang on, kid. I'm coming for ya.

"They must be out of the city by now." He guessed when he stood to his full height. He thought of calling one of the others to help, but he figured that they were pretty scattered. With a look of determination he said, "Looks like it's up to me."

With that he rushed off to acquire himself a ride.

…

Ten minutes later, he managed to find a shop that sold just about every kind of animal. He burst out the front door on the back of a large eel like dog. With a snap of the reins he urged to hurry and catch up to Toph and her captors.

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Later that evening, the five masquerading as the Kyoshi Warriors were currently removing their make up and getting ready for bed. While Shriek, Mai and Ty Lee were still wiping it off of them, Azula and the Scarlet Widow were contemplating on their next move. Azula smiled as she walked across the room, "We have been presented with an extraordinary opportunity girls."

"Mai and Shriek finally gets to wear makeup that's not totally depressing?" Ty Lee asked and looked to the other two. Both Mai and Shriek look to her with unamused looks as the former sarcastically said, "Ha-ha."

"As if you're one to…" Shriek started to say. But she was cut off when the Scarlet Widow said with a slight glare, "Keep on track, please."

"And I'm talking about conquering the whole Earth Kingdom." Azula clarified about what she was talking about. It seemed to surprise at least Mai and Ty Lee while the other two just had smirks on their faces. She gazed out the window into the city and said, "For a hundred years, the Fire Nation, no matter the help, has hammered away at Ba Sing Se from the outside.

"But now, we're on the inside of the city, and we can take it all by ourselves." Azula said, loving the ideas she was coming up with. The Scarlet Widow then reminded, "We need to be careful though, the Avatar and the Avengers have their own within the city."

"Not to mention those bath robe wearing freaks of the Dai Li." Shriek added and Ty Lee nodded in agreement. But that really sparked something in Azula when she said, "From here on the inside, we're in the perfect position to organize a coup and overthrow the Earth King and defeat our enemies in one fell swoop."

"I think I know what you're saying." Shriek said, a grin forming on her face. Azula nodded when she turned to them, "If we enlist the help of the Dai Li, then we'll have the necessary forces to accomplish these goals. The Dai Li is the key to this."

"After all, whoever controls the Dai Li will have control over Ba Sing Se." The Scarlet Widow thought aloud. Mai then shrugged, "We just need to find a way to get their attention."

"I'm sure that we'll think of something." Azula said, her dark smile never faltering.

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Back at the Eastern Air Temple, Guru Pathik had roused the three from their slumber to get ready for the day. All three were greatly tired after being woken up so late. They had followed the guru to a spot down near the base of the mountains where the temples stood. Aang, Bruce and Johnny were all shirtless just like the guru and had been instructed to do so. Guru Pathik stood next to a collection of pools that made up a creek. He had stick in hand and began by saying, "In order to master the Avatar State or to communicate with your other half, you must open all of the chakras.

"Aang, tell me everything you know about chakras." Guru Pathik requested of the young Avatar. Aang rubbed the sleep from his eyes as he asked, "What are chakras again?"

"Uh, does no one ever tell you anything?" Bruce groaned while Guru Pathik and Johnny looked to the boy with dry looks. The guru sighed and said, "Oh, I see." He looked to the others and asked, "Do either of you know?"

"I do, actually." Bruce said. Clearing his throat he said, "Chakras are believed to be pools of collective energy within our bodies."

"Very good, Bruce." Guru Pathik commended him. Turning to the running water, he placed the end of the stick in and used it as an example, "The water flows through this creek much like the energy flows throughout your body."

"Seems like the creek isn't flowing much right now." Johnny observed as Guru Pathik swirled the stick in the water. The guru nodded, "A keen observation, Johnny. As you all can see, there are several pools where the water swirls around for a bit before flowing on down the creek. These pools are like our own chakras."

"So chakras are pools of spiraling energy in our bodies? That's what you were getting at, right?" Aang asked, looking between the guru and Bruce. They both nodded and Guru Pathik continued, "If nothing else were around, this creek would be flowing pure and clear. But as we all know; life can be quite messy and things tend to fall in the creek.

"And then what will happens?" He asked while glancing back to the three. Aang guessed, "The creek can't flow? And the energy is blocked."

"Very good." Guru Pathik nodded, glad that Aang was catching on. Moving the stick to one of the openings in the creek he continued, "But if we open up the paths between the pools…"

He moved some of the gunk out of the way and it caused the creek to brighten up a great deal. Some of the moss in the creek flowed down that paths and Aang finished what the guru was teaching, "The energy flows."

They all watched as more and more gunk flowed down the creek and the water became much clearer under the moonlight. They all smiled when they looked to each other. Johnny then asked, "So, where do we start exactly?"

"If you will follow me." Guru Pathik said before moving away from the creek. The three students looked to each other before following after him.

…

They came to a dark place within the mountains. Finding a large rock big enough for all four, they all sat down in the lotus position. Guru Pathik then explained, "There are seven chakras that go up the body. Each pool of energy has its own purpose and can be blocked by a specific kind of emotional mark."

"Like something traumatizing." Bruce guessed and the guru nodded to confirm this. Pathik then warned them, "I must tell you now: that opening the chakras is a very intense experience. And once you begin this process…

"You cannot stop until all seven of the chakras are open." He added with a shake of his head. He looked to each of them and asked, "Are the three of you ready?"

Johnny, Bruce and Aang seemed a little unsure about it now that they heard the warnings. But then they remembered why they had come and Aang said, "I'll do whatever it takes."

"We're in this together." Bruce nodded, not willing to abandon his friends. Johnny nodded to show that he was in too. Guru Pathik then instructed them, "Close your eyes."

When all three pairs of eyes were closed he began, "First, we will open the Earth Chakra, located at the base of the spine. It deals with survival and is blocked by fear."

\_|_/

(Aang's vision, red hue…)

"What are you most afraid of?" Guru Pathik's voice echoed in Aang's mind. The Airbender was startled when he saw the Blue Spirit coming at him while Cap and three others remained behind him.

He could remember feeling the Blue Spirit's blades against his throat when they made their escape from Zhao's fortress. He felt so scared when Katara had been pulled underneath the ground by General Fong. Aang remembered feeling so angry when he went into the Avatar State.

But then he remembered his greatest fear; dealing with the comet. And dealing with an empowered Ozai. In his vision Aang opened his eyes and screamed when he saw the silhouette of the Fire Lord behind a wall of flames. He covered himself with an arm to shield himself.

\_|_/

(Bruce's vision, red hue…)

"What are you most afraid of?" Guru Pathik's voice echoed in Bruce's mind. The gamma scientist jumped when he suddenly found himself strapped to the same chair that he used when he began the procedure. He looked up to see the equipment hovering over his head.

He growled and began to turn into the Hulk when the experiment was over. Bruce suddenly found himself on the streets of New York fighting against the Abomination. The large monster lashed out a fist and the Hulk raised his arms to block the attack.

When he lowered them, Bruce found himself being stared down by the Hulk itself. His other half roared as he raised his fists to smash Bruce. Bruce yelled as he closed his eyes and waited for the inevitable.

\_|_/

(Johnny's vision, red hue…)

"What are you most afraid of?" Guru Pathik's voice echoed in Johnny's mind. The host of the Ghost Rider found himself back in the traveling circus, watching a younger version of himself making a deal with the devil.

Johnny groaned as he fell to his knees when he felt his first transformation beginning. He let out a cackle and threw his head back as his skin started burning before erupting into flames.

The Ghost Rider suddenly clutched his flaming head, as if feeling that something was wrong. Then with an unearthly roar, glowing cracks appeared on the Rider's skull before he found himself standing before the devil again. The evil being raised his hand towards the Rider, as if expecting to take something.

\_|_/

(Real World)

All three of them looked to be shielding themselves from something. While worried for them, Guru Pathik remained calm, even when he saw the skin on Bruce and Johnny start to change.

"My friends." Guru Pathik said, trying to get through to them in their visions. He then told them, "Whatever you are seeing in your visions, they are not real.

"You are all concerned for your survival, but you must surrender those fears." He advised them. He shook his head, "You have nothing to fear for them, for you can be stronger than they are.

"Let your fears flow down the creek." He told them and it seemed that his words were reaching the three. They all sat up straight and took in a deep breath. When they released and opened their eyes, their visions faded to reveal the cave and Guru Pathik once again. With a smile, Guru Pathik said, "You have all opened your Earth chakras."

Grins formed on all three boys' faces as they took deep breaths or wiped their brows.

…

It was a coupe of hours later when all four of them found themselves in a new area. Dawn was starting to approach as they found themselves on another large pillar of stone behind a large waterfall. Guru Pathik started by saying, "Next is the…"

"Water Chakra?" Aang asked when he glanced behind him. Bruce shook his head, "I doubt I ever would have guessed."

"Brilliant, Aang!" Guru Pathik just chuckled from the wit of these three. Then he said, "One day you three could be a guru too."

"I doubt that." Johnny shook his head. Guru Pathik then said, "Nevertheless, let us continue.

"The Water Chakra deals with pleasure and is blocked by guilt." The guru explained to them. Then he instructed, "Now, look at all the guilt which burdens you all so.

"Lay it all out before you." He said and all three closed their eyes.

\_|_/

(Aang's vision, orange hue…)

"What do you blame yourself for?" Guru Pathik's voice echoed within Aang's mind. He started to think about all the things that made him feel guilty.

"I ran away." Aang said as he remembered the day that he had left. Tears were flowing from his eyes as he remembered the heartbreak that he not only caused himself, but to those who really cared about him. He placed the note that Monk Gyatso would find right as a storm hit. Aang then opened up his glider and took off out the window of his room.

His next vision was of him earlier in the spring, after General Fong had pulled Katara and Natasha under the ground. He was up on his spiral of wind and in the Avatar State. Even after Fong had brought the girls back up, he came back down with a loud boom. He sent a wave of earth that knocked all but his friends off his feet. He ended up causing some big damage to the base. Aang sounded very ashamed of himself when he said, "I hurt all of those people."

\_|_/

(Johnny's vision, orange hue…)

"What do you blame yourself for?" Guru Pathik's voice echoed within Johnny's mind. He started to think about all the things that made him feel guilty.

Johnny once again found himself at the traveling circus. It was the day after he had made his deal with the devil. He watched in shock as his father's stunt went horribly wrong and ended up with him being killed. Johnny reached out, still trying to save his father. He sounded sorrowful when he said, "I couldn't save my father."

\_|_/

(Bruce's vision, orange hue…)

"What do you blame yourself for?" Guru Pathik's voice echoed within Bruce's mind. He started to think about all the things that made him feel guilty.

He found himself staring down at a frightened Betty during the fiasco at the university. Bruce then remembered the time when the Avengers were first brought together. The Hulk was running rampant aboard the Helicarrier, chasing after Natasha. He remembered the anger and rage that he had felt during those times, and how they had lead to someone getting hurt or killed. He hung his head in shame, "I couldn't stop myself."

\_|_/

(Real World)

Guru Pathik had a look of understanding and compassion as he said, "Accept the reality that these things happened. And you must know that some of these things happened outside of your control. But do not let them cloud and poison your energy.

"If the three of you are to be a positive influence in what you do, you must learn to forgive yourselves." The guru advised them. All three took in a deep breath, deciding to put the past behind them and forgive themselves. They exhaled and seemed to find a sense of peace.

\_|_/

Back at Chameleon Bay, Sokka Hakoda and Bato had introduced the otherworldly heroes to the rest of the warriors. Now they were going over a few strategies about how they deal with the Fire Nation. Hakoda knelt down next to something as he said, "This bay leads directly to the outskirts of Ba Sing Se. And it's the perfect spot to set up an ambush."

"I see." Rhodey nodded as he looked to the river that lead back into the country. Then he guessed, "Fire Nation ships go in through here, and there's no room for them to turn around when there's trouble."

"Right. But not like we give them the option to run." Hakoda said proudly. Gesturing to the object before him he said, We've been using these Tangle Mines to stop the Fire Nation's ships from getting through the opening."

"Your father invented the Tangle Mines." Bato said while pouring something into the mine. Natasha then said, "Seems like you're doing much better since last we saw you."

"I am. And I do apologize of not being there when the abbey was attacked." Bato said as he continued to work. He explained by saying, "By the time I had learned of what happened, I was already too far to turn back."

"No worries, we had it covered." Natasha said with a wink. Sokka then observed the Tangle Mine they were working, "Destructive, buoyant and…" He leaned to the opening and sniffed at the contents. He gagged, "A very terrible smell to it."

"Well, that's what happens when you put your nose to something like that." Sam commented from behind. Sokka just looked to him with a slight look while Natasha commented, "You should have seen him in the desert."

"Shh, shh!" Sokka shushed her, not wanting to talk about it with his father so close. Hakoda, knowing that something had happened, decided to drop it and said, "That smell is from what we just put in these bad boys. They're filled with skunk fish and seaweed."

"That sounds appetizing." Natasha sarcastically commented while Hakoda put a stopper into the hole. As he tightened the stopper and some of the gunk excreted from the top, Hakoda explained how it works, "When a ship detonates the mine, the seaweed will tangle up the propellers and the foul smell forces people to abandon the ship."

"That's quite effective." Rhodey nodded while the Water Tribesmen used his machete to cut off the gunk. Hakoda then told them, "I call this method, The Sink and Stink."

It got a laugh out of Sokka as he clutched his sides. Looking to his father he said, "That's a good one, Dad."

"You're definitely your father's son." Bato commented on their wit. Natasha groaned to him, "Uh, tell me about it. They come up with pretty good plans, but their jokes are what need some work."

That got a round of laughs from Bato and the other Southern Tribe warriors. It earned some looks from Sokka and Hakoda. But before anymore could be said, a scout ran up and shouted, "Hakoda! Our scouts have just spotted for Fire Nation ships. They're inbound for the bay."

"Bato, get these mines loaded up." Hakoda ordered when he rose to his feet. Bato nodded before getting back to work. Then looking to the rest of the warriors he told them, "The rest of you men, prepare yourselves for battle."

"What about us, Dad? What can we do to help?" Sokka asked while the other warriors ran about to get ready. Sam then stepped up next to Hakoda and said, "I'm pretty sure he said for us warriors to get ready battle."

"He's right." Hakoda said with a slight grin. Natasha stepped up and said with a grin of her own, "Hope you don't mind a lady coming along to show you how it's done."

"The more to help with our cause the better." Hakoda acknowledged. Natasha looked to the teen and said, "Come on. We've got a lot of work ahead of us."

The four and Hakoda all moved to prepare for the upcoming fight.

\_|_/

Back in Ba Sing Se, business was starting to boom at Iroh's new tea shop. They had so many customers coming and going out the front door. Each guest was met with a respective bow from a couple of women at the door. Standing before the kitchen, Zuko, Iroh and Tony all stood watching the scene unfold. Iroh sounded like he could hardly believe it as he said, "Who would have thought that when we came to this city as refugees, that I'd end up owning my very own tea shop?"

"It would have sounded very unlikely a few weeks ago." Tony playfully said with a grin. Iroh placed a hand on both of their shoulders and said, "Follow your passion, you two, and life will reward you."

"And this is something you've earned. Congratulations, Uncle." Zuko said to Iroh with a grin. Being the humble man he is, Iroh said, "And I'm very thankful."

"And I can see why and you really deserve it." Zuko nodded at the thought. Gesturing to the shop he said, "The Jasmine Dragon will be the best tea shop in the whole city."

"A really good choice on the name by the way." Tony said, thinking of when Iroh was trying to pick out names. They were both surprised when Iroh shook his head and said to them, "No. I'm very thankful that I get to share this special day with me.

"The both of you. It means a lot more than you will ever know." Iroh said as he looked between them and pulled them into a hug. Both Tony and Zuko chuckled as the former patted Iroh on the back. When his uncle released him, Zuko joyously said, "Now let's go and make these people some tea."

Zuko then started walking to the kitchen and the two older men watched him go. Iroh suddenly perked up and he agreed, "Yes! Let's go and make some tea!"

"Right behind you." Tony said as he moved after them. But before they could go any further, they heard a shout coming from the door, "My friends!"

All three looked and every other customer to the front door to see both Thor and Loki standing there. The former had his arms wide open when he said, "I've-"

"We've." Loki corrected him, reminding his adopted brother that it wasn't just him. Thor rolled his eyes and said, "Yes. We've been searching for you all day. We had heard of you working in a spot down in the Lower Ring, but you weren't there. Then the friendly Mr. Lee, who is here with us by the way."

"Greetings, True Believers." Said man said when he poked his head around the door and waved to them. Thor continued by saying, "When he had told us of your establishment here, it was only a matter of time."

"I see you brought the Ranger Games with you." Tony remarked when he turned his eyes to Loki. Loki then said, "Well, believe it or not, but I am actually being a big help."

"Helping us to be a pain in the rear is more like it." Thor countered with a grim look. Iroh, Zuko and Tony noticed the tension between the adopted brothers and Iroh quickly offered, "How about I get you fellas some tea?"

"Thor doesn't drink tea." Loki shook his head, as if he knows Thor better than anyone. He was greatly surprised when he heard the god of thunder prove him wrong, "If it were anyone else, I wouldn't.

"But my good friend's here. He actually makes a good patch of it." Thor said when he gestured to the humble tea maker. The three then moved to get an order ready for Thor and Loki. The two Asgardians sat down at a table while Mr. Lee walked to the counter to talk with Iroh. Loki looked to his brother and said, "I never expected you to be so chummy, given who two of the three really are."

"Well, everyone has a past." Thor shrugged his shoulders. Looking to Loki he said, "Thankfully, theirs is a lot less treacherous than others."

"Now that's not fair." Loki quickly said. Gesturing to himself he said, "I know that me not dead is a little surprising."

"A little surprising?" Thor quietly questioned, remembering that he was in public. Then with a shake of his head, "You don't get it, everyone at home mourned for you. I cried for you."

"I'm honored." Loki said, though he looked as if he wanted to say something. With a shake of his head, Thor tried to ease the tension by saying, "Look, can we just have a relaxing cup of tea, please. There's a lot to do before we get back to the others and plan for the invasion."

"How do you even know that the invasion will be successful?" Loki asked him. Thor looked to him with a quirked brow and asked, "What do you mean?"

"I've managed to sneak around the ranks of both the Fire Nation and their allies in Hydra, and it was difficult enough." Loki said, keeping his voice down. Then he added, "And I have to say that they're managing to make some headway in the war."

"Then we'll be ready to meet them head on." Thor countered, feeling that they could beat their enemies on the Day of Black Sun.

\_|_/

Elsewhere in the Earth Kingdom, Clint aboard his eel hound managed to make it out of the city. They were following one of the roads that led away from the city. Looking down at the ground, the archer managed to spot the tracks made by the ostrich-horse and the cart as it went on its way. He could tell that they were at least still a good deal away, but getting closer with every step. With another flick of the reins, he made the eel hound go much faster.

\_|_/

Back at the Eastern Air Temple, the sun was just starting to rise when the group find themselves sitting on a path facing the sun. Guru Pathick sat between Aang and Johnny while Bruce brought up the end by Aang. The guru then said, "Third is the Fire Chakra, located within the stomach."

"My Fire Chakra would like to eat something other than onion and banana juice." Aang said as he placed a hand over his stomach. Johnny agreed with him by saying, "Uh, my mouth still feels like its crying."

"Oh, suck it up you two." Bruce commented. Guru Pathik just chuckled from the three's antics before continuing the lesson. They all sat up straight and held their hands before them as he said, "This chakra deals with willpower and is blocked by shame."

\_|_/

(Johnny's vision, yellow hue…)

"What are you ashamed of?" Guru Pathik's voice echoed in Johnny's mind, "What are your biggest disappointments in yourself?"

Johnny saw himself shaking the devil's hand, accepting the deal. With a shake of his head, "I never should have taken that deal."

\_|_/

(Aang's vision, yellow hue…)

"What are you ashamed of?" Guru Pathik's voice echoed in Johnny's mind, "What are your biggest disappointments in yourself?"

Aang remembered the time that he first tried to firebend. He started to perform a move and expanded a wall of flames from himself. But the look of joy on his face turned to horror when he saw Katara in the way. She raised her hands to block the fire but ended up getting burned by it. She dropped to her knees with a pained look in her eyes. Truly ashamed of what he had done, Aang declared, "I'm never gonna firebend again. I can't."

\_|_/

(Bruce's vision, yellow hue…)

"What are you ashamed of?" Guru Pathik's voice echoed in Johnny's mind, "What are your biggest disappointments in yourself?"

Bruce found himself in one of his hideouts, and from the look of it he had thrown things from the desk onto the floor. He recognized it as one of his attempts to get rid of the Hulk. Scrunching up his eyes he said, "The Hulk is a disease. I need a cure."

\_|_/

(Real World)

"None of you will find balance if you deny this part of your lives." Guru Pathik said as he looked to each of them. Turning to Johnny he said, "The Rider is a choice of your own, and while it is a gift, or curse, to pass on, it is a part of you.

"You are the Avatar, and therefore, you are a Firebender." He said when he looked to Aang. Aang opened his eyes glanced to the guru. Looking past Aang, Pathik told Bruce, "The Hulk may seem like a great burden, but it is only that when it is treated like one. You three manage to place setbacks on yourselves when you only focus on those negatives about yourselves.

"You need to let it go." Guru Pathik advised them. All three of them took in a deep breath and accepted this as a part of their lives when they exhaled. Guru Pathik didn't seem that convinced with them when he said, "Hmm. That chakra for each of you opened much less like a flowing creek and more like a…

"Burping bison." He said when he thought of it. Aang let out a loud belch that echoed across the mountains. The other three looked to him with questioning looks and Aang said, "Tastes like onions and bananas, but strangely also something else.

"Pickles?" Aang asked while glancing to the guru. Guru Pathik's only reply to this was a shrug of his shoulders and Johnny commented, "Just what have you been eating?"

\_|_/

Back at the Earth King's palace, the disguised Mai, Ty Lee and Shriek were hanging around the front steps of the palace. Ty Lee was currently stretching, Shriek had something in her mouth to sooth her throat and Mai was just sitting on the steps. They were slightly unaware of two Dai Li agents sliding down the large columns that led to the entrance. They listened in when Mai complained, "I'm so tired of wearing this girlie disguise. I don't know how anyone can fight in this."

"Maybe that's why it was so easy to beat the Kyoshi Warriors and take their clothes." Ty Lee guessed when she stood up straight. Shriek spit to the side before saying with a slight laugh, "I bet I could have beaten them all in one go with my voice."

"How much longer do we have to serve the Earth King?" Mai groaned, thinking of what they had gone through since their arrival. That made the agents listening in really suspicious as they continued to listen in. She didn't want to do it anymore when she glared, "If I have to clean up one more pile of bear poop, I'm gonna throw up."

"I know, right." Shriek shrugged. Gesturing to herself and them she said, "We maybe pretending to be warriors that serve the Earth King, but I think that we should be treated a whole lot better than a maid."

"Don't worry, you two." Ty Lee said to try and lift their spirits. Looking back to them she said while bending backwards with her hands touching the ground, "Princess Azula promised that we could go back to the Fire Nation as soon as we capture the Avatar and the Avengers. We just have to patient."

"Shush up!" Mai scolded while Shriek looked a little worried. Ty Lee straightened herself back up and turned to her friend. Mai rose from her spot and questioned, "Do you want the whole palace to know that we're Fire Nation?"

"Sorry." Ty Lee offered while the smirking Dai Li agents climbed back up. When they were gone, the disguised Azula and Scarlet Widow came out of hiding from behind a further pillar. The three who had been watched turned to them and the princess said, "Good work there, girls. I'm sure the Dai Li got the message and will deliver it to their leader."

"Now all that's left is to wait." The Scarlet Widow added and grins grew on all of their faces.

\_|_/

Back over at the Eastern Air Temple, the sun had come up a good deal when the four had moved to another section of the temple. This part had a partially destroyed roof that stood above some Air Nomad statues. When they were seated, Guru Pathik explained, "The fourth chakra, the Air Chakra, is located in the heart. It deals with love and is blocked by grief."

A smiling Aang looked to one of the statues, and his heart began to hurt when he thought about his people. Guru Pathik instructed them, "Lay all your grief out in front of you."

Aang, Bruce and Johnny all closed their eyes and placed a hand over their heart.

\_|_/

(Johnny's Vision, green hue…)

Unlike all of the other visions that he's had, Johnny finds himself in a calm field of clouds. In front of him, he watched as his friends and family rise from the mist. At the head of the group was his mother. He smiled as he could each and everyone that he cared about in his life, before and after the Rider. All the people that he greatly missed had their eyes closed and weren't moving.

He became startled and worried when a column of mist erupted around each person, causing them to disappear. He reached his hands forward, as if to try and save them. The mists that followed started to swirl around Johnny and lifted him up into the air. He could hear Guru Pathik's voice saying to him, "You all have indeed felt a great loss, but love is a form of energy and it swirls all around us."

"The gift of the Rider makes you feel as if you need to distance yourself. But you need not be afraid to form such attachments." The guru said to him, making Johnny remember of his life before coming here. The host of the Ghost Rider became surprised when he watched as the mists started turning into a new shape. His eyes widened when he saw the mists turn into the exact image of Roxanne, the woman he loved, "Those who love you will always be there to help guide you in your darkest hour."

The vision of Roxanne smiled and held her arm out to him. Johnny carefully reached out to it, as if to touch it.

\_|_/

(Bruce's Vision, green hue…)

Unlike all of the other visions that he's had, Bruce finds himself in a calm field of clouds. In front of him, his loved ones all started to appear to him; his mother, aunt, uncle and cousins. Behind them were a whole lot of other people as well. Everyone had their eyes closed and weren't moving.

He became startled and worried when a column of smoke erupted around each person, causing them to disappear. He reached his hands forward, as if to try and save them. The mists that followed started to swirl around Bruce and lifted him up into the air. He could hear Guru Pathik's voice saying to him, "You all have indeed felt a great loss, but love is a form of energy and it swirls all around us.

"Though you wish not to form attachments with those that you distance yourself from, you should know that there will always be someone to fill that void." He added just as the mists around him started to form into something new. Bruce's eyes widened when he stared into the smiling face of Natasha Romanoff.

\_|_/

(Aang's Vision, green hue…)

Unlike all of the other visions that he's had, Bruce finds himself in a calm field of clouds. When Aang looked ahead of him, he was greatly happy when he saw his fellow Air Nomads rising from the mists. And at the head of the group was the person that he missed most in the world; Monk Gyatso.

He became startled and worried when a column of smoke erupted around each person, causing them to disappear. He reached his hands forward, as if to try and save them. The mists that followed started to swirl around Aang and lifted him up into the air. He could hear Guru Pathik's voice saying to him, "You all have indeed felt a great loss, but love is a form of energy and it swirls all around us.

"The Air Nomads' love for you has not left this world. It is still inside of your heart." The mists started forming a new shape before Aang's eyes, "And it is reborn in the form of new love."

The mists took the form of Katara. She looked just like she did the day that they first met as she smiled down at him.

\_|_/

(Real World)

"Let the pain flow down the creek." Guru Pathik said, seeing that they were doing it. Tears of happiness flowed from the three's faces as they opened the fourth chakra. They wiped their eyes while the guru commended with a smile, "Very good, you three."

"Can I have some onion and banana juice please?" Aang asked, which earned a chuckle from the other three. Guru Pathik then said, "In a little bit, but for now, we must continue on our journey."

The four men rose from the ground and followed the guru to a new location.

…

They came to another building with a large statue of a female Air Nomad. Once they were seated before the statue, Guru Pathik then said, "The fifth in the chain is the Sound Chakra, located in the throat.

"It deals with truth…" Guru Pathik happily said. But his smile fell when he revealed, "And is blocked by lies.

"Usually the ones we tell ourselves." He added and the three closed their eyes.

\_|_/

(Aang's Vision, blue hue…)

Aang found himself, Katara, Sokka and Steve on Appa's saddle. It was when they had escaped for the first time from Zuko. A worried Katara asked him, "Why didn't you tell us you were the Avatar?"

"Because I never wanted to be." Aang repeated the words from that day, the day that everything really started.

\_|_/

(Johnny's Vision, blue hue…)

Johnny, finding himself at Carter Slade's place. The former holder of the Rider said, "You need to know what you've gotten yourself into."

"I'm not evil. But I'm not so good anymore either." Johnny shook his head, remembering that a few days later he would battle the devil's son to prove it.

\_|_/

(Bruce's Vision, blue hue…)

Bruce looked about and found himself in the university building before his battle against Abomination. He was shaking his head, "I'm not a monster!

"I'M NOT A MONSTER!" He screamed in his friend's face.

\_|_/

(Real World)

Guru Pathik, having heard what they said, shook his head, "The three of you cannot lie about your own natures. You must accept what you are. And these things will be a part of you. But you must move past the negative feelings in order to move on."

All three of them took deep breaths as they accepted who they were.

\_|_/

(Aang's Vision, blue hue…)

Aang found himself standing at the top of a mountain peak. With a stoic look, he was watching over the world. That it was his sole duty to watch over the world and all who inhabited it.

\_|_/

(Johnny's Vision, blue hue…)

Johnny himself was in the middle of a terrifying place. But instead of looking afraid, he channeled the Rider out and flames erupted from his body. When he was visible again, he was a much more in control version of the Ghost Rider.

\_|_/

(Bruce's Vision, blue hue…)

Bruce stood in the middle of a large field, tall grass as far as the eye could see. He noticed someone standing next to him and looked to see the Hulk facing opposite of him. He thought of themselves as two halves of a coin and how they impacted one another.

\_|_/

(Real World)

When they opened their eyes again, Guru Pathik smiled in approval, "Very good, you three.

"You have opened the Chakra of Truth." They smiled as they were but a few more steps to being whole.

\_|_/

Back at the Jasmine Dragon, Thor and Loki were still waiting on their tea. Their attention was brought to the side when Tony sat down next to them. Tony then asked Thor, "So, how long have you been in the city?"

"A few weeks at most." Thor told him. Then he said, "The others and I came with four children. One of them happens to be the Avatar."

"Yeah, I've heard about him during my travels. Is he here in the city?" Tony asked. Thor shook his head, "Not at the moment. He, Banner and a fellow named Johnny have taken a trip to the Eastern Air Temple."

"You mean that Bruce is gone out of the city?" Tony asked with raised brows. Thor then said, "We're all scattered for the moment. Steve and I are the only ones still here in the city.

"Well, Barton should still be here too, he's with one of the children called Toph. As is Steve with the Waterbender Katara." Thor explained to his friend, "Natasha is with the fourth, a young man named Sokka, who is Katara's brother. Sam and Rhodey both went with them."

"Everybody seems to be just about everywhere." Tony remarked, thinking how scattered they were. Thor then said, "Worry not, everyone will be returning in due time."

"What do you mean?" Tony asked, wondering what was going on. Thor looked from his friend sitting before him to his friends behind the counter. Then he suggested, "Perhaps now is not the best time to discuss this. I wish not to say anything that would give them worry."

"Well, don't take too long, okay?" Tony asked of him. Thor nodded in understanding right as Zuko walked up with a tray full of tea in hand. Then he asked, "So, I guess you guys are getting pretty chatty, huh?"

"Oh, they're talking up a storm over here." Loki said with a grin. Thor looked to his brother with a stern look and said, "Shut. Up."

\_|_/

Back at the Outer Wall, the Guardians of the Galaxy were getting ready to call it a day. Quill looked between Mantis and Gamora and asked, "How much did we get dismantled so far?"

"A good portion of the engineering room." Mantis reported with a small grin. Their attention was drawn away when they heard Baby Groot say, "I am Groot."

They all looked to where the little plant man was standing and he pointed to a panel against the wall. Quill and the girls walked over and he asked, "What is it, little buddy?"

"I am Groot." Was all that Baby Groot said and kept pointing to the wall. Gamora looked over to the other two members of their group and called out, "Rocket, we need you!"

"In a sec!" The modified space racoon answered in annoyance. He didn't take too long to come over to see what was going on. He shrugged and asked, "What's up?"

"I think that Groot may have found something." Quill said and looked to the wall. Rocket shrugged his shoulders like it was nothing and said, "Congratulations, it's a wall."

"We think there's something behind it." Gamora clarified for him. Rocket just sighed before walking up to the wall. He lightly tapped it with his fist and was surprised by the tone of the ring. Looking over the wall he agreed, "Yeah, maybe you're right."

He brushed up against the wall with his paws before it came to the side of the panel. With a tug he got it to move and when it was completely out of the way, everyone there was greatly surprised to see a hidden room within the drill. And along the walls of the room, there were stations with what looked to be headphones and much more advanced tech.

\_|_/

Over at Chameleon Bay, Sokka and the three were getting ready for the battle ahead. Both Rhodey and Sam were helping the Water Tribe warriors load up the boats. Meanwhile, as Sokka was sharpening his machete, he looked over to Natasha who was testing whatever weapons she saw. He noticed the look on her face and could see that she was troubled. Placing his machete away, he then asked, "Hey, Nat, you okay?"

"Huh?" The spy looked up from observing the weapon in her hand. Sokka walked over to her and repeated the question, "I was asking are you okay?"

"Oh, yeah. I'm fine." Natasha said as she set the object down. Shrugging she added, "Why wouldn't I be?"

"Well, ever since we left Ba Sing Se, you've looked like you've had something on your mind for a while." Sokka said. Natasha thought of playing it off, but decided to come out with it. She sighed, "You're right. Something has been troubling me for a while."

"Well, whatever it is, you can tell me. I'm here for you." Sokka said and placed a hand on her shoulder to comfort her. Natasha smiled before it fell and she said, "Ever since I had found Appa, I've been feeling guilty of leaving Suki behind. I just haven't really forgiven myself."

"I'm sure that she doesn't hate you." Sokka said, trying to reassure her. Then he reminded her, "But you got to remember, she knew that getting you and Appa back to us was more important. And when we get back to the city, I'm sure you can try to make things right. But she'll probably tell you that it's no big deal."

"You're probably right." Natasha nodded, thinking that it could be alright. Sokka shrugged and said, "Yeah, I can be full of wisdom."

"Don't take it too far." Natasha warned with a deadpanned look. The teen gave a nervous laugh and said, "Sorry."

"Now let's get ready." Natasha said before picking up one of the machetes. Sokka nodded before lightly touching her weapon with his own.

\_|_/

It wasn't long until the Guru and the three came onto another part of the temple. They sat down on some stairs that wound around the mountain just as the sun started to set. Guru Pathik then said, "The sixth pool of energy within our bodies is the Light Chakra, located in the center of the forehead."

"It deals with insight and is blocked by illusion." He elaborated. Bruce looked to him and asked, "How do you mean?"

"There are many forms of illusion, my friends." Guru Pathik told them. He glanced down at the horizon when he said, "The greatest illusion of this and all worlds, is the illusion of separation.

"Things that you think are separate and different are all parts of the same whole." He finished. Johnny then guessed, "Kind of like our other halves or if someone has powers in that sense."

"Yes." The guru nodded to confirm this. Then he said, "But everything we perceive are actually one and the same."

The four closed their eyes as they thought about it.

\_|_/

(Envisioned, brown hue…)

"Kind of like the Four Nations." Aang guessed. Guru Pathik nodded, "Yes, we are all one people, but we live as if divided."

\_|_/

(Real World)

"We're all connected. Everything is connected." Aang said, remembering what he had learned at the swamp. Guru Pathik nodded and continued by saying, "Even if we are separated by boundaries, this world, their worlds and even the Spirit World are connected in more ways than one.

"Even the separation of the four elements are an illusion." He added and they thought about earth, fire, air and water. He then said, "If you were to open your mind, you will see that all of the elements are one, four parts of the same whole. Even metal is just a part of earth that has been purified and refined."

\_|_/

Over in the Earth Kingdom, Toph was still trying to figure out a way to escape from her metal cage. Outside, the two men weren't paying much attention to the banging coming from behind them. Inside the cage, Toph slammed her fists and her left foot against the top and bottom of the cage. She could feel something within the metal, and she punched the sides while stomping her right foot this time. She then slammed her the palms of her hands behind her and could feel it just about everywhere. Then hitting the metal in front of her, she could almost see the fragments of earth within the metal thanks to her senses. A grin grew on her face before she took in a deep breath. Placing the palms of her hands against the metal and stomping her foot against the floor, she urged with a straining voice, "Come on, metal. Budge."

She reared her hands back before throwing them forward. Instead of her just pounding on the metal, she managed to make a pretty big dent in it as well. Impressed with what she just did, Toph shook her sore hand. But she was too excited as she said with a grin, "Toph, you rule!"

Not willing to wait for backup, she once again hit the metal with the back of her hands. The resulting sound produced a satisfying clang.

\_|_/

Not too far behind Toph and her captors, Clint on his eel hound was starting gain ground on them. The archer of the Avengers could hear the sounds of slight arguing and the pounding of metal coming from up ahead. He quickly removed his bow and once again whipped it into a Bo staff. He glared at the possibility of him smacking a couple of heads while rescuing his friend.

\_|_/

Back in Ba Sing Se, Katara and Momo were still making their way to see the Earth King. The Waterbender walked through the Upper Ring on her way to the Earth King's palace. They came across the Jasmine Dragon and thought a nice cup of tea would do. Katara looked to the lemur and asked, "What do you say, Momo? A nice cup of tea before we see the king?"

Momo chittered in agreement and Katara walked towards the shop. When she came up the steps, Katara and Momo were greeted by the hosts at the door. They bowed and Katara requested, "Table for two, please."

But before she could take a seat, she heard a familiar voice shout, "Uncle! I need two jasmine, one green and one lychee."

A shocked Katara looked to the back of the shop and saw both Zuko and Iroh back there. Iroh then replied with a grin, "I'm brewing as fast as I can."

Momo seemed to be just as worried as Katara as she turned and ran from the tea shop. If she had stayed, she would have noticed Thor and Loki sitting at a table or Tony walk out from behind the opening to the kitchen with a couple of trays of food on his arms. He walked over to Thor and Loki's table before setting them down. Nodding to them he said, "Enjoy, fellas."

"Thank you." Thor said while Loki nodded. Tony then walked to go back to help Iroh and Zuko.

\_|_/

Over at the Outer Wall of Ba Sing Se, the Guardians of the Galaxy were still surprised by what they were seeing hidden in the drill. Quill then said, "I think we found some kind of communications room."

"Gee, you figure that out by yourself?" Rocket commented and Quill glared down at him. Mantis then noticed, "It would seem that a transmission is coming through."

"Huh?" The three said and saw some lights around one of the headsets flickering. Rocket quickly went to it and pulled the headset from the console. He held one of speakers to his ear to hear what was going on. He heard a voice with an accent say, "Is the infiltration of Ba Sing Se complete, agent?"

"Yes, we're now waiting for the right moment to stage a coup of the Earth King, the Avatar and the Avengers." That bit caused him to tense up. Looking to the others he said, "Guys, we need to get back to the city!"

"What? Why?" Quill and Gamora asked at the same time. Rocket rushed past them and picked up Groot while saying, "I'll explain on the way! Let's go!"

The three looked to each other before rushing after him to collect Drax and head back to the city.

\_|_/

At the Eastern Air Temple, night had fallen when the four had made their way to the top of the temple. They sat under a starry sky and Aang asked, "So did we make it? Is this the last chakra?"

"Yes, and you have all done well." Guru Pathik commended them with a grin. Looking to each he said, "Once you open this chakra, you will be able to go in and out of the Avatar State at will or be much more connected with your other halves much better."

"And we'll have a better understanding too, right?" Johnny asked him. The guru nodded to answer his question. Then he asked them, "Are you all ready?"

"Aang?" Bruce asked the Airbender. Aang thought for a quick moment before saying, "I said that I would do whatever it takes to do this. And I meant it."

"And if it's something that will be really hard to do?" Johnny asked, feeling like he raised a good question. That made Aang once again stop to think, but he figured that since that they all had come this far, then they might as well finish it. Nodding he said, "We'll cross that bridge when we get there."

"Okay." Johnny shrugged and they looked to the Guru. He then began the final part of the lesson, "The Thought Chakra is located at the crown of the head. It deals with pure cosmic energy and is blocked by earthly attachment.

"Meditate on what attaches you to this world." He advised and the three closed their eyes. They all took a deep breath and their minds began to envision what was close to their hearts.

\_|_/

(Bruce's Vision, purple hue…)

Bruce saw Betty Ross smiling at him when he left after his battle with Abomination. He saw his mother and the family that loved him. But must of all, he was seeing Natasha standing on the other side of a broken-down house, on the day that they had first met. He heard Guru Pathik's voice echo in his mind, "Now, let all of those attachments go. Let the flow down the river, forgotten."

\_|_/

(Johnny's Vision, purple hue…)

The only thing Johnny was seeing in his mind was Roxanne. He remembered when she helped him to fight the devil's son in San Venganza He heard Guru Pathik's voice echo in his mind, "Now, let all of those attachments go. Let the flow down the river, forgotten."

\_|_/

(Aang's Vision, purple hue…)

Aang could only see Katara as his attachment to the world. Inwardly he was smiling as he remembered the time when they were using waterbending to help Aunt Wu's village. Then he remembered the time that he had made her a replacement necklace after losing her mother's. The final memory was when they were lost in the Cave of Two Lovers. He remembered how the light of the torch started to fade when they leaned forward to kiss while Steve and Natasha thought about how to help. The vision had just faded to black when he heard Guru Pathik's voice echo in his mind, "Now, let all of those attachments go. Let the flow down the river, forgotten."

\_|_/

(Real World)

That really surprised the three as they broke out of their trance. Opening his eyes Aang questioned, "What? Why would I let go of Katara?"

"Or us of our own attachments?" Bruce asked, not understanding what the Guru was saying. Guru Pathik then said, "You must learn to let them go or you will not be able to let the pure cosmic energy flow in from the universe."

"I think I've had just about enough powers for one lifetime." Bruce disagreed with him. Johnny looked to Aang and asked, "Still think this is worth it?"

"I don't know. But I know that I wouldn't choose cosmic energy over Katara." Aang retorted. Looking to the Guru he asked in confusion, "And how could this be a bad thing of feeling these attachments?" Gesturing back down the temple he reminded, "Three chakras ago that was a good thing."

"You three must learn to let go." Guru Pathik insisted and it made the three look to each other with conflicting looks.

\_|_/

Back in the city, Katara and Momo had finally made it to the Earth King's palace and rushed to find help. The young Waterbender still could hardly believe that two of the Fire Nation had been able to get into the city. She came into the throne room and saw the disguised Fire Nation and Hydra agents kneeling before the throne. Katara felt relieved when she said, "Thank goodness you're here, Suki. Something terrible is going on in the city.

"The Fire Nation has infiltrated the city." She told them making three of the five surprised. Shriek opened her mouth as if to say something, but a glance from the disguised Scarlet Widow kept her from talking. Azula was really surprised when Katara said, "I just saw Prince Zuko and his uncle."

Azula smiled as she thought that things were starting to get really interesting. Katara became frantic when she said, "We have to tell the Earth King right away."

"Oh, don't worry." Princess Azula said as she and the other four rose onto their feet. Katara became nervous when it didn't sound like Suki to her. Azula stepped a little closer and gave a false promise, "I'll be sure to let him know."

When Katara got a good look at her eyes, she gasped when she realized that it wasn't Suki. Momo shrieked before taking off in fear. The five warriors in front of her were imposters. Katara turned to run away, but both Shriek and Ty Lee moved to stop her. Ty Lee did a few cart wheels before coming down right at Katara. But before she could even touch the girl, something came from the side and knocked into the acrobat. Ty Lee grunted when she hit the ground and the other disguised agents looked to see the object retreat into the shadows.

They became greatly surprised when they saw Captain America emerge from the shadows with his shield at the ready. Katara became very happy when she said, "Cap!"

"I thought something was off when you didn't come back to the house." Captain America told her as he moved between his friend and the five. Ty Lee moved to stand with the other girls and he said, "And I managed to hear everything."

"Good, then maybe you'll really listen to this!" Shriek shouted before using her sonic scream on him. Cap raised his shield and took the brunt of the blast. The sonic scream knocked the super soldier off his feet. He slid against the floor, but didn't stay down long as the disguised Scarlet Widow came down at him with a foot outstretched. He rolled out of the way and got back up to throw a punch at her. She managed to catch it and he followed up with dropping down and sweeping her legs from under her feet. The Scarlet Widow went down as he came back up. He was unprepared when Shriek suddenly jumped onto his back and tried to put him into a chokehold. Cap tried to reach back to pull her off of him, but she managed to use one of her hands to slap his away. Katara came to his rescue by using a water whip on her. It smacked her in the back and she yelped as she fell off of the super soldier's back. Mai reared her arm back before throwing one of her knives at them.

Cap moved in front of Katara and blocked the knife. Grabbing his friend's arm, they quickly made for one of the pillars to hide behind. The five Kyoshi imposters moved to keep the two from running out the door and ruining their plan. Azula looked to Shriek and the Scarlet Widow, "Distract the super soldier and get him away from the Waterbender. Mai, Ty Lee and I will handle her."

"Right." Scarlet Widow nodded in agreement before motioning for Shriek to follow after her. The two moved off while the three Fire Nation teens moved towards the pillar.

From behind the pillar, Katara stuck close to Cap and he said, "We're both not going to make it out of here. I'll create a distraction and you run for the door."

"What? No way!" Katara disagreed with that plan. Cap then said, "Katara, someone needs to warn the city. And you're the person to do it. You have to."

"No, I won't leave you." She shook her head. But Captain America was firm when he stated, "I'm not going to give you much of a choice."

With that, he moved around the pillar and Katara tried to stop him but it was too late. With a groan she commented, "Did he ever frustrate the other Avengers or his girlfriend like this."

Captain America moved to engage the five by throwing the shield at them. It managed to knock into both Mai and the Scarlet Widow and knock them off of their feet. He quickly moved out of the way when Ty Lee came at him for a jab at his arm. He was unprepared for a sonic scream from behind by Shriek. It knocked him forward and Ty Lee managed to land two-fingered jab to the back of his leg. Cap winced from the jab and found that he couldn't move his leg. He could see the other five start to gather around him and he shouted, "Now!"

It confused his enemies until they realized whom he was talking to. All five infiltrators looked to the pillar to see Katara starting to make a run for it. Azula ordered, "Ty Lee, stop her!"

The acrobat of the group didn't say anything as she once again cartwheeled to the fleeing Water Tribe girl. Cap tried to get up to stop her, but a boot to the face knocked him out.

Katara nearly made it to the door when she looked back. She gasped when she saw Ty Lee jump into the air. The Waterbender tried to bring her water out again, but she was too slow to stop the Fire Nation acrobat from hitting a nerve in her shoulder. It seemed to do the trick as the Waterbender lost all feeling in her body and fell to the ground. The water from her pouch leaked out onto the floor and Ty Lee rejoined the others. Azula looked between them and said with a grin, "So, Zu-Zu's here in the city, too."

"What should we do with them?" Mai asked, looking between the paralyzed Katara and the unconscious Steve. Ty Lee then suggested, "Maybe we can use them against the Avatar and other Avengers."

"Good thinking, Ty Lee." Azula commended with a nod. Ty Lee seemed excited to help contribute alongside her friends. The princess smirked when she said, "Looks like everything is starting to fall into place."

"And we'll be able to finish up our holiday shopping, ladies." Shriek said with a laugh. While the teens didn't really understand the reference, Scarlet Widow nodded, "There are just a few more players that we're missing."

"I think we should start with a family reunion." Azula suggested and they didn't seem against that. They were unaware that Momo had remained within the Earth King's throne room and had watched everything. With a silent chitter he took off to get to safety and to wait for the others to return.

\_|_/

Back at the Eastern Air Temple, things were still a little tense from what they were told. After thinking about it, Aang shook his head, "I'm sorry, but I just can't let go of Katara."

"Whatever happened to doing whatever it took?" Johnny threw the question back at the boy. Aang looked to him and asked, "Are you willing to give up what you love?"

"I may not like it, but if it helps keep the Rider much calmer, then I think I should do it." Johnny nodded, even though there was a lot more to the lesson than they were believing. Guru Pathik agreed with Johnny by saying, "Johnny is right. To master the Avatar State or your other halves, you must open all of the chakras. Surrender yourself."

"Aang, it is why we came here." Bruce agreed with them. Aang looked like he wanted to protest, but he knew that they had a point. Nodding he agreed, "Okay. I'll try my best."

"That's all we can ask for." Bruce said and the three closed their eyes again.

\_|_/

(Vision-scape, purple hue…)

All three imagined their anchor to the worlds on a dirt path before them. They watched Katara, Natasha and Roxanne be lifted into the sky as the stars seemed to move very fast overhead. All while hearing Guru Pathik's voice, "Now think of your attachments and let them go. Let the pure cosmic energy flow."

\_|_/

Aang suddenly found himself floating high above the world. When he stopped, a path of light appeared underneath his feet and a path formed outward away from the world. He saw something at the far end and started to make his way towards it.

\_|_/

Bruce Banner found himself in a field of tall green grass. The only things in the field were him, the grass and a tall figure at the other side. Already having an idea of who it could be, Bruce started walking towards them.

\_|_/

Johnny Blaze found himself in a place that felt really hot to him. Looking about he saw rocky structures that were speckled in fire. He got an idea of where he could be before he happened to notice a large set of double doors at the end of a path. He could hear the sounds of banging coming from them and wondered if it was the spirit of the Rider. He walked up to them, feeling this was the way to open the chakra.

\_|_/

At the end of his path, Aang came face to face with a large silhouette that was shaped just like him. He realized that this was his Avatar Spirit. The closer he came, the more the large Avatar Spirit descended to the end of the path. Aang became surprised when his tattoos started to glow and a grin formed on his face. He noticed a large sphere of the cosmic energy between the Avatar Spirit's hands and moved to step inside. As he stood in the center of the sphere, he could feel the energy from the universe start to flow into him.

\_|_/

Bruce came to the side of the field where the Hulk stood as if waiting for him. Bruce shook his head when he asked, "Got any idea what's going to happen after this?"

The Hulk shook his head before extending his hand to his smaller counterpart. Feeling that this was what he was meant to do to open the chakra, Bruce started to extend his hand. He was startled when he heard Aang's voice, "Guys! We got trouble!"

Bruce took his hand back and looked across the field. He knew that the voice was real and knew that it sounded urgent. Bruce moved away from the Hulk and started running back across the field. The Gamma Beast gave a questioning grunt and it made Bruce stop to look back. With an apologetic look, Bruce started running again. The Hulk and the field started to fade the further he ran.

\_|_/

It didn't take Johnny long to reach the large set of doors and he could hear the banging intensify from the spirit on the other side. A set of metal rings that seemed out of proportion with the doors. A white light shone each time the doors opened a little and Johnny felt as if he could feel more heavenly energy than that of what a demon would have. He lifted his hands to the rings on the doors and when he grasped them, he started to pull them open. Johnny could feel heavenly energy start to flood him the wider he opened the door. He was startled when he heard Aang's voice, "Guys! We got trouble!"

Johnny slowed his pull on the rings and looked back down the dark path. He knew that the voice was real and knew that it sounded urgent. He let go of the rings and the doors banged closed again. The spirit behind the door let out a wail, as if telling Johnny to open the doors, but Johnny was already running down the path once again. The doors and the dark, fiery path started to fade the further he ran.

\_|_/

As he waited for the energy to finish, he suddenly heard a scream. Looking back over the path towards the earth, he saw something. It looked like a hazy vision of sorts, but this one was of Katara and Steve. Katara was struggling as she was being held by chains while Steve was sitting against the wall unconscious. Katara kept struggling as she screamed, "Let me go!"

Knowing that his friends were in trouble, Aang darted out of the sphere and down the path. The Avatar Spirit faded into the darkness and Aang's tattoos stopped glowing. The path underneath him began to fade until it was no longer under his feet. Aang screamed as he fell back to the earth below him.

\_|_/

He panted when he opened his eyes from what just happened. He snapped the other two out of their visions when he shouted, "Guys! We got trouble!"

"What?" Both Bruce and Johnny asked when they opened their eyes. Aang stood up and informed, "Katara and Steve are in danger. We have to go, right now!"

"On it." Bruce said as he got up to go with him. Johnny was right behind them and they started running for the edge of the roof. But Guru Pathik stopped them when he called out, "No! Not yet!"

They had slid down to the edge of the roof when they stopped. They looked back up just as the guru appeared. He warned them by saying, "By choosing attachment, the three of you have locked the chakra.

"If you all were to leave now, the results will be disastrous, I promise you." He added with a swipe of his hand. Bruce then asked, "What do you mean?"

"You will never find peace, and the Rider may continue to lose himself." Guru Pathik warned them. But looking to Aang he said, "For you, you won't be able to go into the Avatar State at all."

Aang thought about his choices, but decided that Katara and Steve were more important at the moment. Looking to the other two he said, "I've made my choice and I'm going."

"Then we're right behind you." Bruce said and Johnny nodded. The three quickly made their way back down the temple to start the journey back. From where he was standing, Guru Pathik could only hang his head in sadness.

…

It didn't take the three long to round up their stuff and find Appa. Once all three were on board, Aang snapped the reins, "Appa, yip, yip!"

Appa took off with a groan and headed back west. As they flew by the mountains, Bruce asked, "So, what exactly is going on?"

"All I really know is that they're in trouble." Aang said, unsure of what the danger was. Johnny then asked, "You didn't pull us away just because…"

"I really did sense that they were in danger." Aang clarified with a nod. Bruce looked to Johnny and said, "Some things only the Avatar knows. We'll just have to trust him."

The three didn't say anything as Appa continued flying back to Ba Sing Se.

\_|_/

Back with Toph's captors, the cart was starting to go over a hill. The two heard more banging, but decided to let Toph burn herself out. Up ahead in a tree on the path, Clint had managed to get ahead of them and was waiting up in a tree branch. The archer had an arrow at the ready and was waiting for the right moment. When they were close enough, Clint let the arrow fly and it cut through the reins of the ostrich-horse. The two Earthbenders were greatly surprised and it seemed to frighten the animal is took off running down the path with a loud squawk. Master Yu and Xin Fu looked around for the one responsible when Clint jumped down from the tree and kicked Master Fu off of the cart. The money-grubbing teacher grunted when he fell to the ground and Clint followed up with an elbow to Xin Fu's face. The Earthbender fight master growled from the blow before grabbing Clint by the arm. In a swift motion of his body he threw Clint from the cart. Clint tumbled on the ground but managed to pick himself back up. He heard Toph shout from the cage, "Clint, is that you?"

"Hang on, kid." Clint said as he still had to deal with these two clowns. Xin Fu hopped off the cart while Master Fu came around. With a snap of his bow, he turned it back into a staff and readied himself.

But before the fight could really commence, the sound of a loud crash came from the cage. Both Earthbenders quickly rushed to see what had happened. Clint moved in from behind to see too. They were all surprised when they saw a large hole in the cage. Master Fu looked to his comrade and said, "It's another one of her tricks."

"Okay, even you can't be that stupid." Clint commented, earning a glare from the teacher. Though he hated to, Xin Fu agreed with him by saying, "There's a giant hole in the box! How is that a trick?"

"Wait, did she…?" Clint started to ask. They all looked back when they heard Toph yell, "It's not a trick!

"It's the real deal." Toph clarified as she assumed her earthbending stance. With some fast waving of her arms, she raised two slabs of stone before moving them to squish her kidnappers together. Both men grunted when they were crushed by the slabs. Toph then jumped with a spin and extended her left foot to the trapped two. It made the slabs send the two into the cage. With a big help from her earthbending, she leapt towards the cage. She landed just before the opening and with her bare hands and a glare on her face she closed the hole back up. When it was sealed tight, Toph used her earthbending to jump onto the top of the cage. Clint was greatly amazed when he stepped up to the cage. Turning around, she raised a fist and proudly declared, "I am the greatest Earthbender in the world.

"Don't you two dunderheads forget it!" Toph taunted as she stomped on the roof of the cage. She hopped back down and ran up to Clint. He was surprised when she gave him a hug. Clint patted her head and said, "Easy there, Toph."

"Sorry. I was just so worried about you." Toph said as she stepped back. Clint smiled and he said, "Nah, come on, kid. You know it'll take more than two rock heads to keep me down.

"And I got to say, that you're now the coolest Earthbender that I've ever met." He added, his grin growing wider. Pointing to the cage he asked, "Did you seriously just invent metalbending?"

"Heh, yeah." Toph agreed and playfully punched him in the arm. Then she suggested, "What do you say we get back to Ba Sing Se? Even if I don't really want to."

"Same old Toph." Clint shook his head with a grin. With a rotation of her arms, Toph created a platform of earth underneath them before swinging her arms back and forth to make it move. The platform raced back down the path towards the city.

Back in the cage, things became quiet for the two trapped Earthbenders. Xin Fu didn't sound too happy when he said aloud, "I'm going to be stuck in here forever with you, aren't I?"

Master Fu glanced around a bit before saying, "I have to go to the bathroom."

This news made Xin Fu bang his head against the metallic wall of the cage with a groan.

\_|_/

Back at Chameleon Bay, things were almost packed up as the warriors prepared to leave. Hakoda walked up to his son and the three heroes and asked, "Are you four ready to knock some Fire Nation and Hydra heads?"

"Yeah, we are." Sam nodded with a grin. It seemed to put a grin on Hakoda's face as he was really starting to like these guys. Sokka turned to his father and said, "You don't know how much this means to me, Dad. I'll make you really proud.

"And I'll finally prove to you what a great warrior I am." He promised, really wanting Hakoda to see. But Hakoda didn't look like he needed any convincing when he said, "Sokka, you don't have to prove anything to me. I'm already proud of you. And I've always known that you're a great warrior."

"Really? You have?" Sokka asked with a look of hope in his eyes. Hakoda nodded and said, "Why do you think I trusted you to look after our family and our tribe while I left?

"Plus, a little storytelling from Bato told me a lot as well." He smirked when he glanced over to his friend. Bato, who had been passing by, heard what his best friend had said and grinned as well. They were startled when they heard the sound of sniffling coming from behind them and saw Rhodey trying his best not to breakdown. Sam turned to him and asked, "Dude, are you okay?"

"It's just such a beautiful moment." Rhodey answered and wiped his eyes. Natasha then commented, "Now you kind of sound like Wade."

"Oh, Avatar." Rhodey said when he realized that she was right. It made both Hakoda and Sokka laugh a little before they all started to walk towards one of the ships.

But the sound of low growling made them stop before they could board. They all looked back to see Appa with Aang, Johnny and Bruce on his back touch down on the sand. The look in Aang's eyes let the four know something was up as Sokka said, "This can't be good news."

"And now I feel like it's going to get worse when they tell us." Natasha commented. From his spot on Appa's back, Johnny said, "We'll tell you on the way! We need to get moving."

After saying a quick goodbye to his father, Sokka and the other three quickly boarded on to the back of the bison. The ships pulled from the beach and headed across the lake as Appa rose back into the air. As the bison headed towards the city, Sokka looked back to the fleet.

From the lead ship, Hakoda looked back one last time and wished his son and daughter well with a smile.

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Back in Ba Sing Se, two Dai Li agents were dragging Princess Azula through the prison building. She had removed her makeup when they came and brought her. They walked up to Long Feng's cell and opened up the door. Azula guessed that this was the man in charge for the Dai Li and angrily said, "What is this about? Your agents show up in the middle of the night and drag me down here?

"You will not treat a Kyoshi Warrior this way." She added while trying to fight her way out of their grip. But Long Feng just grinned when he said, "But you're not a Kyoshi Warrior, are you…

"Princess Azula of the Fire Nation and an ally to Hydra." His words surprised her. She looked to him with a somewhat worried look and asked, "What do you want?"

"What I want is to make a deal." Long Feng simply put it. Then he explained himself by saying, "It's high time that I regained control of Ba Sing Se, and you have something that I need."

"Oh, which is?" Azula asked him. Long Feng then said, "The Earth King's trust."

"And just why should I help you?" She questioned him. The former cultural minister of Ba Sing Se then offered, "Because I can help get you the Avatar and the Avengers."

"I'm listening." Azula said, starting to get interested, but also another plan forming in her mind. Long Feng grinned as he felt as if his plan was working.

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Over at the Jasmine Dragon, the trio was getting ready to close up shop after a successful opening. Even Thor and Loki had left a while ago. While Tony and Iroh was clearing off the tables of trays and cups, Zuko was sweeping the floors. They looked to the entrance to see a man walk in with a scroll in hand. He walked up to Iroh and bowed to him when he said, "A message from the Royal Palace."

He handed the scroll to him and backed up as Iroh unrolled it. He read over it and Tony asked, "What does it say?"

"I… I can't believe it." Iroh said, becoming excited by what he read. Zuko walked up and asked, "What is it, Uncle?"

"Great news, boys." Iroh said when he rolled the message back up. Then with a big grin he said, "We have been invited to serve tea to the Earth King!"

"Wait, really? We get a meeting with the king?" Tony asked in total surprise. Iroh nodded before running off. They watched him go before Zuko noticed the look on Tony's face. He then asked, "What is it?"

"Just that, uh…" Tony tried to find the right words to say. Zuko seemed to know what Tony was thinking about. Placing a hand on Tony's shoulder he promised, "Whatever happens, I'm sure we can work it out together."

"Hopefully." Tony returned with a small grin of his own. The two then looked out to the city in wonder what tomorrow would bring.

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Back at the Ba Sing Se prison, Long Feng and Princess Azula finished up their little meeting. The Dai Li agents took her back to the apartment where the others were waiting. But as she walked down the halls, Azula smirked to know that her plan was falling into place.

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This story's dedication to:

Stan Lee: 1922 – 2018

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Author's Note: And another chapter is done. I am so excited to get to work on the final chapter. I know that you must be bummed out that I didn't include the Pygmy Pumas in this chapter, but I do plan to add them in the second part. However, like I said in the previous chapter, the last chapter won't be coming out until next month. I look forward to reading your reviews. Be sure to leave a comment either about if I've done something wrong or if you want something specifically to happen. See you all next time and may God bless your day.