Chapter 6: A Path I Can't Follow
Scorching hot lava flowed rigorously down the streams created by the fiery liquid through the years before. It carried with it a sense of a wrath and destruction as to where it would pool into. It's very element was that to destroy and consume all in it's path into a blazing hell of agony. The Temple of Avatar Roku once stood on this Island. Now - no longer. Its very structure has since been consumed by the element of hell that was able to breach the Earths crust and release unto the world. The emptiness of where the temple once stood, now sat a cross legged individual who remained idle upon the non-existent remains of its legacy. This man, is Avatar Aang.
There was a reason as to why he chose this place out of any other to reunite with his beloved; And that simple reason was none other than the fact that this was the turning point through his journey as the Avatar. Too seek wisdom and knowledge from none other than that of his predecessor, Avatar Roku. The wise old man had only been a guide to him to the up most of his abilities out of all the Avatar's who came before him. So despite feeling anger for the irresponsibility his lineage has contributed to his situation, he still held some sort of respect for the deceased Avatar that lived before his time.
"You will find another way."
Those words wedged into his soul. Another way declared to remaining undiscovered, another way that would he would consider to be his way. He knew what he had to do. This path that this world had forced him onto would lead to the ever-so achievement of eternal peace, and prosperity. A world where one would no longer fear the existence of death or the deprivation of love. This path would be merciless, and demanding.
If he were truly being honest with himself, he did not know if he would be able to keep his sanity intact because of it. That is why he needed her. She would be his anchor when everything else turned their back on him.. She will be his rock, his motivation, and his stability from falling back into the weak little boy that was broken out of the ice berg over a year ago. She had to come, she just had to. She was his last remaining hope of a brighter future.
Hearing a strange noise in the air, his head perked up to gaze at the distant horizon. Narrowing his eyes, he noticed the symbol of the Fire Nation stitched onto an airship approach in his general direction. Rising to his feet, he inched back into a more confined sector of the island that was able to hide his figure. The airship was now soaring over him. and he watched it like a hawk. Thinking - wondering, why the Fire Nation had come here. They should have no business here, not after they disgraced a cherished idol of their history by burning its structure to the ground.
Had someone intercepted his letter? Did June brush off his threat and reveal its secrets to someone that wasn't the woman it was intended for? If so, he would deal with her permanently after taking care of a few loose ends. The airship began to make landfall just over ridge of the hills causing his suspicions escalated to a higher altitude to the possibility of being discovered. Preparing his mentality for the heat of battle, he decided to sit and wait for the people who were sent here to confront him. There was plenty of space for him to move in the area. If needed be, he'd certainly need the space to be able to weave his to their throats before ripping it out of them.
Katara felt the ship lightly shake due to its adjustment to the earth below. As it settled, her heart had began to flutter. She was here, she was finally here, and somewhere on this island Aang was waiting for her - but where? She quickly made her way towards the unloading sector of the blimp with high anticipation to get off this flying vessel and seek out her friend.
"Ma'am." The Captain halted her once she came into his view. "I'm sure you've noticed, but we've landed."
"I am aware." Katara confirmed. "Captain, you and your men are to stay with the ship, I'll be back shortly." She attempted to step around the man, but he shifted his body to block her attempts.
"Ma'am." He began once more. "With all due respect, I believe it's for the best if we send a small team of our strongest warriors to accompany you. I understand that Crescent Island holds be hostility, but it's never too safe to be sure. Plus, you're very far into your pregnancy, and Fire Lord Zuko wouldn't be so happy if he figures out you were left unattended."
Katara glared, she had no time for this. "You said it yourself Captain, there is no hostility on this island." She huffed. "I appreciate your generosity for my well being, but I assure you I will be alright. As for my Fiance, he won't find out anything if your lips remain sealed." She pushed passed him this time, uncaring and with no patience for any more delays. "Stay with the ship along with your men, that's final." She ordered.
A noticeable hiss had been heard, it was the sound of the hatch releasing its hold allowing it to open and fully expand. Taking her first few steps outside the flying contraption, the first thing she felt was the radiating heat it released compared to other places. It wasn't overwhelmingly hot, but it did carry a comforting layer of warmth that pleased her skin. Observing her surroundings, Katara grew skeptical as to where Aang could be waiting. The sun had partially set, and she had no good clue as to where he may be.
"If I were Aang... where would I go?" Her thoughts continued to examine.
There had to be a connection synced with the Avatar. after all he couldn't just choose this place out of a whim - right? Despite that, nothing around her caught her attention. Everywhere there was - a barren rocky wasteland had greeted her eyes. Time was running out, and at this rate she would miss her chance to see him again,
"Where would Aang be? Where would Aang be?" She chanted over and over again, trying to find some hidden meaning to the question; And then she stopped. "Where... where would the Avatar be?"
At that moment, her eyes began to expand in realization. Without another second, she took off in the direction she was sure Roku's Temple had once stood. Her feet quickened beneath her, yet she remained careful as to not fall over on her stomach and potentially hurt the baby. She knew where he would be, or at least that's what her instincts were telling her. He certainly had to be there, he just had to. Scaling over the one and only hill in her path, she looked down as to try and pinpoint the exact location Roku's Temple used to be. The remnants of the terrain had been buried between overlapping layers of molten rock that cooled in time. Getting a good idea, she headed down a faint and barely noticeable trail towards the location. She sped through the terrain, hoping that she would come across him somewhere, anywhere along this area. Stumbling over a rock, she nearly fell over until a pair of arms came and kept her from falling belly first into the rock below. She would've thanked the person instantly for helping her, but something about the hand that her eye's rested upon surprised her. The blue arrow on the arm that gently pressed against her shoulder... no, it couldn't be. Following the blue lines up to the source, Katara found herself staring into the eyes of her beloved she missed all those months ago.
"A-Aang?" She let out a small shaky whisper. "Is..." She raised her hand, gently caressing his cheek with her palm. "Is that, really you?"
Aang seemed to be just a surprised as she was. "K-Katara? You came, you actually came!"
The two stood. surprised - baffled - confused... but in love. Their lips twisted into smiles moments before finding themselves embraced in each others arms. This was it, the embrace they both waited so long for. This... this felt right. Like it was meant to be. They remained this way, holding tightly and uncaring for everything else around them. Though their desires for one another had yet sooth, Katara had reluctantly pulled away to allow the built joy in their hearts to slowly settle.
"Aang!" Tears threatened to fall from her eyes. Taking his appearance in, she couldn't help but notice how much he's grown since before. They were practically eye level at this point. "You've... you've grown!"
He chuckled. "Yeah - I guess I have, and you're..." Looking down, his smile turned into shock. "You're... pregnant?!"
The shock in his face was enough for a small giggle to escape her lips. "Yes, I am." She looked down, feeling a connection between the three of them unlike anything she's ever felt. "As you can see, I've been for awhile now." Caressing her stomach once more, she was surprised that the child grew dormant within her abdomen. Normally this was unusual, for it always caused a ruckus. Now, it seemed to have calmed.
"I-I see." His tone didn't falter or change, nor did it affect how he felt for the water bender. Instead, he was surprisingly... delighted. For the reasons that the baby within her was Katara's. Regardless of who she conceived the child with, he would care for it regardless due to the fact that the baby within her carried her lineage - his beloved. "That's... wonderful." He embraced her in a hug once more.
The roundness of her belly press against his, and he was close enough to get a good smell of her beautiful hair. Momo took this time to make himself known, suddenly coming up between the two, he leaped onto Katara's shoulder and sat there licking her cheek with joy. She giggled at the unexpected, but wholesome reunion she received from Momo's excited greetings.
"Momo." Rubbing her cheek after Momo was finished her, she reached over to scratch his ears. "It's so good to see you. I certainly did miss you, both you and Appa."
Hearing his name caused Aang's smile to fade, the guilt of his inability to protect Appa still fresh in his heart.
"Speaking of Appa." She looked around, trying to see if she could spot the flying Sky Bison. "Where is he?" She refocused on the Avatar, expecting an answer as to where the creatures location was. Her answer remained nothing but silence as the mention of the deceased friend brought tension to his limbs.
A whimper had filled her ears. The sadden ones of Momo who's ears hung low when the mentioning of Appa began. This was weird, she always believed the two would be inseparable. That was what defined their friendship. An inseparable bond that would not collapse - just as it's always been when they found them in the iceberg so long ago. It didn't make any sense. Nothing could separate the bond those two held... Nothing but - And then she began to realize. Putting two and two together, her palm suddenly found itself covering her mouth as she realized that Aang's best friend till death do them apart, just wasn't around anymore.
"A-Aang, I'm so sorr-"
"I couldn't protect him, Katara." Aang painfully voiced. "Do you understand? I was too weak, an overconfident fool in my abilities even with the almighty power of the Avatar. I shouldn't have brought him with me, I just..." Looking into her eyes, tears began to swell. "I just wanted to see who my parents were, to know who I truly am. But seeking such knowledge came at a price I wasn't prepared to meet, nor would I ever have been prepared for such a sacrifice. I lost a huge part of what made me... me."
Moving over towards a rock, he leaned on it as he began to reminisce about Appa. Katara followed his example and leaned next to him.
"Aang..." Resting her head against his shoulder, she did her best to try and comfort him and herself. "Please, tell me what happened."
Like him, Appa was one of her dearest friends. Hearing of his passing left her devastated. But what hurt even more was the simple thought that she went so long without even knowing of his death. She went so long - oblivious to it all. She never realized that one of those nights where she laid her head down to rest until the following morning, a dear friend of hers had just rested theirs for the last time.
"I..." He began to recall of the horrific scene that happened nearly over two weeks ago. Clenching his fist until it shook in his lap, his teeth that was hidden behind his lips gritted against one another as he did his best to subdue his inner desires of rage. "I hate him. That damn - monster, I hate him so much. I hear his voice cackling inside me, taunting me for my weakness, my vulnerability, my hesitation! I can't explain it, but he's here... with me - always looking down on me. That's why I need you. Together, you and I, we can avenge those we cherish. Nothing will stop us if we do this united!" He began to grow hysterical. "But after it's done, I've been thinking. Why stop there? Why stop at a path with the ultimate goal of vengeance when we can ensure no such catastrophes would ever happen to anyone again!"
She understood his pain all too well. She could see it in his eyes - it was the same as hers when she lost her own mother. Seeing him drown in those eyes she had once grown to embrace as a part of her own - it hurt her.
"Aang, if there's anything I have ever learned from someone as gifted as you - it is the ability to forgive your enemies in the harshest situations. Back before the war was over, when I faced the killer that took my mother away from me - the desire to slice his throat and watch him choke in his own blood drowned my senses. It called to me. To finally put this pain that I've endured my entire life. That pain I built held nothing but a single purpose. To strike back at the source that inflicted such agony... I didn't. In the end, I realized that it would just be a waste of time. The words of wisdom and love you've given had shown me another way in moving on. A more passive and enlightening way. At that very last moment when I struck down at the person who caused such pain, I came to realize that I would have gained nothing. It may bring me a temporary sense of satisfaction just knowing he met the same fate he gave my mother, but I would still feel empty. Because the love that my mother once gave me, that love that I cherished more than anything in this world could - and would never come back."
Aang closed his eyes, trying to find meaning in those words that he once addressed her with. The ability to forgive and move on. To seek enlightenment elsewhere and not to succumb to its alluring award of vengeance. He couldn't find even an ounce of peace within those words. He may have said such a thing before, but by god it's so hard to stand by them when such pain is inflicted upon yourself.
"I-I can't." He glared at the floor. "I just can't. I lost too much already, Katara. Losing my entire culture was just the beginning, and now this!"
"Aang." She walked towards him again, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Please, let go of this anger within you. It's not good for you. Come back with me instead and leave this sense of vengeance behind while you still can! Help me raise our-"
"And allow this monster to roam free?!" He nearly yelled. "How long will it be until he kills someone else I hold dearly? I - I don't want him to come for you too, Katara."
"He won't Aang." She sniffed, suddenly becoming emotional. "He won't be able to hurt me. Because I have you, and all of our friends who love and cherish each other. He can't defeat all of us."
"Us?"
"Yes us!" She elaborated. "Zuko, Toph, Sokka, Suki, Iroh and so many more!" She reached up and caressed his cheek with her thumb. "Aang... listen to me. Though we've made our mistakes... I - made some mistakes. I don't want want any of that to come in between us. Please understand, all I want is your love."
He couldn't believe what he heard, she wanted him. She... she loved him. It was true now, she really did in fact feel for him like he felt for her. However, with a threat out there that even he was unable to overwhelm, he knew that this love would not be enough.
"Love?" He scoffed lightly. "Love has no defense, nor offense. It holds no weapon or shield. Love isn't something that could be able to protect you, Katara." His reply was soft while wrapping his arms around her waist. "But I can... with the amount of power I will obtain - nothing can stop me."
"That may be so, but there's more to it than that! Right now you're not you, you're devastated - I can feel it. You're a good person, Aang. Please, don't go through with this."
"I won't lose you the way I lost them. I won't shy myself from the opportunity to gain power any longer. None of this is about attending to the duties of the Avatar. It's for you, to protect you."
The way he responded sent chills down her spine, for some reason those words didn't sit right by her. Not one bit. Caressing his cheeks more gently, she hoped her words would reach.
"Aang, lets runaway. This life has taken so much out of us already. Come with me and leave all of this behind while we still have the chance!"
"No, no! Don't you see? We don't have to run away anymore. I have already brought peace to this world. I am more powerful than any living being this world has to offer! The Nations, their Capitals, their cultures that divide us! I - I can overthrow each and every one of their systematical government and reorganize them to coexist!"
Slowly releasing her grasp on him, she began to inch away in disbelief as he continued to ramble
"And together, we can reshape the very foundation of this world into a new one! A better one! A world where things such as pain and oppression does not exist - making everything the way we want them to be!"
She stopped, her lungs became breathless and her eye's expanded in horror at what he was proclaiming. This was wrong, so very wrong. He wanted to rule this world with an iron fist, a dictatorship - and for what? For her? No, she couldn't accept that. This isn't like him, not one bit. Staring into his crazed eyes, she was unsure of what to say.
"I - I can't believe what I'm hearing. Zuko - he was right." Saying his name caused Aang to frown. "You're not the same... You've changed."
Seething in annoyance, he pondered over the man that had taught him Fire Bending. If only he wasn't in the picture then Katara wouldn't be so confused as she was now. He didn't want to hear his name anymore, not one bit.
"I don't want to hear anymore about Zuko." Taking a step forward, a sense of desperation to have her join him increased. "Katara, I have experienced the merciless nature of our kind better than anyone alive! I have gained - lost - and been betrayed. Don't you dare become one of those things who hurt me!"
Tears began to pour from her eyes. Realization over how far Aang has fallen had struck, but still she refused to let go. "I don't know you anymore. Aang, please - come back! This isn't like you! This path you're walking on is one I can not follow."
Hearing with her response, his gaze turned into disappointment. "Because of Zuko."
"No! It's because of what you've done..." Thinking back to the horrifying details Zuko tried to tell her, her recollection had only brought further pain. "as well as the things you plan to do!"
His lips partly opened for a response, but something in the corner of his eye's caught his attention. Standing just meters behind Katara were the presence of a few who were not welcomed - and it angered him. Her words continue to fill his ears, but now they could no longer reach him.
"Please, come back! I... I love you!"
"Liar!"
She noticed his gaze was elsewhere, following it towards its source, she was left in a deep sense of betrayal and disbelief. This wasn't suppose to happen. With a little more time, she knew she could've gone through to him. So why, why were they here? Iroh... she betrayed her. The one man she thought she could trust had led others to confront Aang when it was not needed. Blinking her tears away, her sense of fear had grown as she tried to explain herself.
"N-No I-"
"I should've known this was a trap! You're with them!" He accused. "You brought them here to kill me!"
Lifting his right arm up, he used the same exact method that monstrosity of a spirit used to suck the air out of her mother. Angrily watching the air escape Katara's lungs, he lifted her from the ground with a gust of wind. He was done, betrayed by those he loved for the last time. He wasn't going to sit by and let anyone walk over him any longer. Whether it was Katara, Zuko, or that damn Spirit, it didn't matter who was in his way. Nobody would stop him now, nothing can.
"Let my sister go, Aang!" Sokka yelled, his brotherly instincts kicking in. He dared not to attack, for he was afraid if he saw him approaching with hostility he would kill Katara before he could reach her.
Katara struggled to breath. Looking into the eye's of the person she loved, those cold eye's that was penetrating deep into her soul. She thought she would see nothing but unwavering thirst for blood in his eyes, but she didn't. She could see through him, clearer than all. He was hurt, confused, and in pain - terrible, terrible pain. Behind those masked eyes was a frightened boy who felt alone. Her mind began to grow fuzzy and her eye's blurred as she realized she was dying.
"Let - her - GO!" Sokka demanded once again, panic beginning to rise within him.
As he stared into Katara's pupils, he could see the life slowly squeeze itself out of them. His murderous intent had overwhelmed everything, yet still she stared at him with nothing but love and a desire to understand him. To reconcile with him. To love him. Seeing such an expression, despite showering her with nothing but negativity had confused him enough to release his grasp on her. She then fell to the floor, deprived of enough oxygen to the point where she fell into a state of unconsciousness. Thinking to himself, the creeping sense of regret had begun to grow; but just as quickly, it stopped as he was forced dodge to avoid a blast of fire that impacted the spot he stood. Looking over, he saw Iroh with his palm extended and his stance slightly widened.
Quickly rushing over to the unconscious figure of Katara, Sokka knelt next to her with clear concern for her health. Placing his ear near her mouth, he was grateful to hear and feel the smoothness of her breath against his skin.
"She's breathing."
Gently picking her up, he escorted her back to the others, to which Iroh soon took over in carrying. There was a tenseness in the air that they all mentally struggled to stay in.
"Uncle, bring her back to the airship. We'll be back shortly."
Iroh glanced at his nephew, seeing the dense and determined look he expressed, he nodded and left without another word.
"You!"
The rough and coarse voice of an angered and hurt boy had filled Zukos ears. Turning to the person, he could see his eye's consumed in a moist color of red due to the mixture of rage and pain that filled his eyes.
"If it wasn't for you! None of this would've happened! I loved her, you knew I did! Yet, you - you turned her against me!" He clenched his fist, pacing back and fourth like a predator ready to pounce at the first opening he gets. "I will not have you take her from me!"
"You've done that to yourself! This journey you trailed down contained nothing but seclusion and isolation. Choosing to run away from the reality of an imperfect world had brought you nothing but disappointments. I overheard what you spoke of earlier, how you encountered a spirit that shattered your role as a bringer of peace. Because of that, you've allowed this - dark spirit, to twist your mind until now... now you have become the very thing you swore to destroy."
"Don't lecture me, Zuko. I see through the lies you believe in! The title of the Avatar has had nothing but a pointless and repetitive effect. For thousands of years my kind has preached the ideal of peace, and sought to achieve it in more ways than one. All of it has lead to an unending cycle of bloodshed that would continue over and over again through the years! This war we just came out of is proof of it!"
"And what makes your idea any better! You're attempting to enslave us all like cattle!"
"Because unlike my predecessors, I have come to understand the true nature of life itself! The constant preaching of peace and justice has drowned us in an illusion we refuse to accept! The personality known as life is a cruel and horrid one among all living and spiritual things. It thinks - and schemes - and betrays. Do you understand, why it all must be contained. For now, my sole focus is on wiping out individual conscience from the core of both living and spirit worlds! I will use the same approach it's used against us, all of those deceitful and shunned emotions that the essence of life continue to drive away... the way we do. Katara, she was the one final reason as to why I was able to tolerate this hallucination we know as life! THERE ARE NO INNOCENTS! Not anymore! Past and present - human or spirit - child or elder - any one of them could've stood up and said 'No, we won't behave like insignificant beasts any longer!' I am Avatar Aang, and I HAVE HAD ENOUGH!"
A rough and tense rumbling had shook the ground they stood on, and around them the fiery liquid of lava had burst from the ground momentarily before subsiding. It's raging fury seemed to react to the Avatars rage, showing a small glimpse in the power he would unleash.
The three had steadied themselves as their bodies rocked back and fourth from the small quake that was released. Regaining their composure, Toph had managed to come out of a stupor she hadn't realized she was in. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. The voice of the Avatar - of Aang - of the boy she loved... it was so, different. Their tone was similar, yet the way he spoke was unlike anything she's ever heard him say. She couldn't believe this was who Aang had become. Just... just what happened to him? Her lips quivered lightly as she felt herself automatically gulp a lump in her throat.
"A-Aang." She shakily voiced. "What's... what's gotten into you? You're so... different."
Clenching her fist, she cursed herself for sounding so vulnerable - but how could she not? When coming face to face with the person she had admired for so long. Not because he was the Avatar, but because Aang wasn't afraid to express himself. He was always bubbly, and joyful, and so patient with her despite being uncooperative many times. Now, as she struggles to keep herself from falling apart in front of him, she still believed that he still had a little bit of the boy she fell in love with within him.
Hearing her voice had lightly eased Aang's rage. Closing his eyes, he chose to imagine the girl in front of him instead of looking at her. "Toph. Throughout the shortness of our time together, you have given me nothing but encouragement to continuously improve off the person I was but moments prior. You taught me, that avoiding my problems would only construct anguish, and that my life would be unfulfilling if I allowed it. I've taken your teachings to heart and have followed it despite the losses I have endured. Through your teachings, I have uncovered a truth I had dreaded facing. This world, an unending cycle through the years where bloodshed, pain, and sorrow would never become a foreign aspect. I want to change that! We - can change that... So I'm asking you, as my mentor - my ally - and my friend... join me. Together, we can give our world the true meaning of joy, peace, and justice to those who wish for it."
It made sense to her. By god, his motives truly did make sense. She could not see it, but she could feel the endless agony this world was in. Where there was good, those who seek to destroy it always lurk in its shadows - waiting to strike. She too wanted this to end - She too wanted a life fulfilling to all, where nightmares such as the century war would never again exist - She too had found herself bending to his desires. He was still the Avatar, his sole existence was to ensure peace across the globe... but, not like this.
"No..." She shakily voiced. "No, Aang. This isn't right. I understand what you wish for, I do! ...but not like this. You want what you believe is best for the world, but what the world screams for is freedom, love, and prosperity. You know where I stand in this... My allegiance is to the people - to democracy! Please, reconsider your actions, your ideals, and your proposition. There must be a better way!"
"A better way?" He scoffed. "Every possible outcome my past lives could recall upon has already been attempted. And every single time is has failed! Do you wish to know why?" He chuckled disappointingly. "Individualism. Not just in body, but in mind and desires. Individual thinking comes to different opinions, which turn into beliefs, then oppression - selfishness - and finally to be dominant."
"I..." She sighed. "Yes, I think I finally understand."
Aang smiled, a look of satisfaction and pleasure had expressed itself.
"But... I cannot side with you."
His smile left, replaced by aggravation and disappointment.
"I see - well then..." Turning his figure to get a good look at those who stand opposed to him, his attention mainly focused onto Zuko and Toph. "I believe it's been sometime since both of you have taught me about Earth and Fire Bending. For old times sake, how about we have one - last - lesson." Stomping on the ground beside him, a sharply carved spear made of the molten rock beneath them sprung into his hands. He twirled it momentarily and stopped it with the tip of its spear pointing at the three in front of him.
A long and tense silence had overwhelmed them. This was it... it was actually happening. No one could move a muscle. Instead, they stood silently as they listened to the others breathing - anticipating on who would dare make the first move. Oddly enough, it was Toph who initiated the attack. She raised a boulder in front of her before punching her fist straight ahead, sending the rock directly at Aang. Zuko had followed her example and launched a few balls of fire before proceeding to pursue his flank - Sokka doing the same on the other end.
Narrowing his eye's, he twirled his spear while slicing the boulder with a few coordinated gusts of air. He then redirected two of the fireballs towards Toph and extinguished the third with a twirl of his weapon. Hearing a metal hiss behind him, he swiped his spear just in time to stop Sokka from slicing his head off. His concern grew when he witnessed the sword cut deeply into the rock his weapon was made of. Pushing him back lightly, they exchanged a few more swings before Sokka cut through his weapon entirely. This caused him to redirect his next strike with his palm before blowing him away with a storm of wind his breath unleashed.
"His weapon... it's deadly." He warily eye'd Sokka's sword. "And he's faster and stronger than I last remember. I guess even burdens do make some improvements after all."
Shortly after, he found himself locked into another battle of close combat with Zuko. The two exchanged fire between them through every punch and kick. Every flame that collided with each other fighting for dominance before extinguishing itself in the air. There was a time where he saw the Fire Lord as a mentor, a friend, and a brother. Now, he could not find any meaning them whatsoever. This man known as Fire Lord Zuko was a snake, a liar, a traitor... and he must be punished. The two's forearms crossed each other in an x shape as they attempted to blast each other's face into a hot pile of ash. The flame missed by mere inches as it swept by each others head. They glared at each other through the brightness of the flame until Aang's glare twisted into a smirk. With a swift movement of his left hand, he entrapped Zuko's legs in the rock below him rendering him motionless. Zuko attempted to blast him away so he could free himself, but he twisted around to evade his attack before entrapping both of his arms with rock that sprung from the ground. Bringing them to his side, the defenseless Fire Lord could only stare surprised and in fear for what was about to happen.
"This is quite humorous. I remember your father in a similar state just moments before I took away his Fire Bending. I guess you can say, like father... like son." Lifting his right arm slightly, he molded a dagger made of rock in his hand before going to slice his jugular. He was unable to make contact when Zuko was sucked into the earth, disappearing in the ground that solidified instantly. Looking back, the Fire Lord reemerged alongside Toph. He growled while his gazed filled with annoyance.
"You're playing a dangerous game."
She glared back. "I could say the same yourself."
Shifting his feet for another attempt to attack, he was unable to do so due to Toph knocking him off balance by kicking the earth below her like she was getting an angle on a soccer ball. The tremor lead straight towards, and he was unable to react quickly with her speed. He forgot how deadly she was in her natural element. A fearsome warrior that surpasses all in its art. The tremor unleashed left him vulnerable allowing an earth pillar to smash against his gut. Skidding across the floor roughly, he jumped to his feet. His anger had spiked, and he could feel the power within him wishing to reveal itself. He allowed it, for but a moment. His eyes shifted white, and the denseness in the air around him grew ten times fold. Before he could fully reveal what was within, he was forced to lean back to avoid a strike Sokka had tried to get a hold on. He jumped away once more, this time heading down a steep and narrow canyon where lava flowed through the bottom of its stream.
The Water Tribe Warrior could only gaze at the retreating figure of the Avatar, the boys eyes glaring into his own as he continued his descent. Zuko and Toph had rushed to his side, both of them gazing on just as he was. .
"I can't feel much of anything down there." Toph informed. "Everything is nearly... lava."
"You're right, with how little space there is for us to move, there's no telling how far this fight will go. Surely it would not end well, regardless on who comes out the victor.." He re-sheathed his blade and crossed his arms.
As the two bickered back and fourth, Zuko remained silent as his pupils remained fixated on Aangs shrinking figure in the distance. They were right, they couldn't fight him as easily as they had been, but perhaps... "I can." He said.
He took a step forward and made an attempt to pursue Aang. Sokka had grabbed onto his shoulder and pulled him back, almost aggressively.
"Wait Zuko, perhaps this is his method in weeding us out. He wants to separate us and pick us off individually. We're no match for him alone, but together... we might have a chance."
Toph stepped in, agreeing with her friend. "He's right Zuko, he can't take us all down. Let's just wait for your uncle to return, by then we can coordinate our next attack for a safer and more direct approach."
Unsure entirely of what needed to be done, he continued to gaze ahead. Seeing the Avatar stop caught his attention, and for a moment the two's eye's interlocked once more. Aang smirked, knowing all to well that Zuko would pursue
"No." He rejected their inputs. "He's toying with us. He hasn't even tapped into the Avatar State. He could've killed us all if he truly wanted to... I'm going after him!" Leaping off the cliff, he directed his arms and legs behind him before shooting fire from its center, allowing him to fly across the sky.
"Zuko! Wait!" Toph tried to stop him, but it was too late.
"Damn it!" Sokka stomped. "I swear he never listens. Hurry, we have to inform Iroh of the danger that lies ahead, he'd surely be of great help." He turned to leave, but Toph took a hold of his hand stopping him from doing so.
"There's no time." She sadly gazed. "If we do as you say, there may not be so much of a body to recover. We have to help him, now."
Soaring across the sky in incredible speed, he maneuvered himself from side to side to avoid any pouring liquids of lava that spilled from above. Simultaneously, his eyes briefly scanned the area in search for any sighting of the Avatar. Moments ago, he was directly on his trail keeping good pace yet a safe distance away; and then after rounding a corner that interrupted his lock on Aang, there was nothing. Nothing but endless streams of lava that continued to pour endlessly throughout the island. Cursing inwardly, he sped through the canyon hoping he just fell behind, and that Aang was just ahead of him somewhere - waiting for him.. He couldn't let him escape - no, he would not allow him to. The Avatar is a powerful that nearly 9 times out of 10, the wielder of such power will always come out victorious. A man holding such power - turning against its own world, its own people, its own destiny! ...the consequences for that future ran too high for him to accept.
"Going somewhere?"
His face fell, and his heart nearly stopped when hearing the Avatar's voice inches above him. Swiftly turning his body upward hoping to direct a strike - instead, he was met with a fiery burn that sent him hurling to solid ground. Making impact on the coals a distance above a bed of a river of lava, his crown that had presented him as Fire Lord fallen from his hair. His left arm was also left shattered and immobile - broken from the impact. Zuko groaned and pushed himself to a sitting position, only to hiss in pain and grab his left shoulder once the excruciating spasms in his arm had settled in. Feeling a presence levitating above him, he stared up at the Avatar who returned nothing but a cold and malicious glare in return. He made an attempt to move, but his feet was once again entrapped in the rock that Aang sealed over them.
"Look at you." He grimaced. "It's pathetic really. Fire Lord Zuko, ruler of the Fire Nation - unable to defend himself against his inevitable demise. Tell me, were you really my teacher? Were you really the man who completed my training in mastering the four elements? ...How - disgraceful."
"Aang..." He sighed. "I'm... I'm sorry - about everything. You're right, I knew you harbored feelings for Katara. But, I love her too. If you truly understood the meaning of love, you wouldn't want to break what we have apart. The family we will be having... it's a miracle really. Do you not understand?"
"Oh, I understand. I understand all too well your intentions." Aang spat. "Everything up to this point was so - questionable - deceitful - and unbelievable! I thought she'd love me. I thought she would want to be with me. I thought she would understand me. But she wouldn't - she couldn't! Instead she saw me as a monster! A monster that only wanted the best for us! For out future, and nothing more! She turned against, and it was all because of you!"
"Aang, listen to yourself! You're shattered and uncomprehending. You know this isn't like you! You're being manipulated at this very moment! Used by that spirit you spoke of to bring havoc into this world as I'm positive it once did! Listen to reason, please!"
A smile slowly stretched its way across his lips, and his laugh had been one of many haunting sounds. "Oh, really? Do you really think I haven't noticed? I know of how wicked and cold that thing is! So don't you dare try to enlighten me! When I kill you, I will harness enough power to end that thing once and for all. I will claim vengeance, and I will bring justice! ...but not before I end the person who caused such beginnings to commence."
"I - I can't believe it. You've truly gone mad with obsession." His gaze fell below, and it was a saddened one that expressed. "I failed you, Aang. As a teacher, and a friend... I failed you."
"For once, I can truly agree with what you say." Raising his right hand to the sky, he summoned an immense amount of energy to gather from the elements at his immediate disposal. "Among all those who sleep through this night, they have yet to contemplate that a new story is beginning... but for you, this is where yours ends. Goodbye, my old friend."
He refused to look up. He would not allow Aang the satisfaction of seeing the look of hopelessness in his eyes right before he is to be destroyed. It would be shameful, and down right disrespectful to the amount of work he'd put into personal growth. Accepting the reality of what was about to come, the only thing he truly regretted was not being able to hold his child just after his fiancee had given birth. Instead, his soul would pass on to the next realm - unknowing to the smoothness of a young one that should be in his arms.
"...do it."
He grasped onto chunks of the warm coals that he sat on, its powdery ashes painting itself all over his fingers and hands. His body tensed, waiting for the excruciating pain that would come just moments before his own life was taken... but it never came. A thump was heard, causing him to lightly jerk at the unexpected sound. Slowly opening his eye's, his curiosity shifted into horror at the severed arm that laid only inches from his feet. Another thump greeted his ears - a leg, landing next to the arm... and then another. The harm, the damage, the nightmare... he wanted to vomit at the gruesome sight. His gaze had fixated across the streaming river of lava, where just on the other side his companions had just arrived in time to save him. He was going to be alright. Everything was going to be okay... but not for her.
Toph - she knew what she did. She felt it... the horrendous act she had gone through with. She didn't want to do it, she really didn't... but what choice did she have? Forced to play a deck of cards where neither side could meet an understanding, she had to choose between the two.. but was it the right choice? She didn't know - she refused to know. From here on out, she moved purely on instinct and what little purpose she may have left. Subconsciously creating a bridge so that they may reach Zuko without any obstacles in their path.
Falling out of the sky, Aang had tumbled and skidded against the loose gravel - clawing at its terrain with his left and only remaining limb as to not dip into the pool of burning lava. He screamed - and it was a scream that was beyond anything they could ever imagine.
The two approached Zuko, and it was Sokka who knelt alongside the Fire Lord in order to help him to his feet. "Zuko. Are you alright?" Examining the earth that engraved his feet together, he grasped onto the hilt of her weapon before proceeding to bash the rock open to free its limbs.
Flabbergasted and speechless, he could only marvel at the idea where moments before their arrival, they discussed and accepted the possibility of an outcome much like this. They hoped this would never have to occur, but sadly not all relationships were meant to be. Glancing at Toph with concern, he knew that she would need time to comprehend what she had just done. Her muteness had been disturbing, but was just as understanding. As the screams continued to ring in their ears, they refused to look at the direction of the Avatar who continued his struggle to climb away from the slowly rising lava.
"I'm fine... really. Just a broken arm."
The screams continued, and Sokka had finally settled his gaze upon Aang. The twos eye's locked briefly, but it was enough to overwhelm his senses with absolute guilt. He couldn't leave him here like this, it was torturous - and inhumane. He unsheathed his blade, approaching the Avatar with heavy hands as he intended to put an end to the suffering once and for all.
"Stop!"
He froze, the good and functioning arm that was Zuko's had grasped his shoulder and kept him from furthering his advance.
"You don't have to do this, Sokka." He reasoned. "It's over... he can't harm us any longer. We've won."
Clenching his eye's shut, he struggled to keep the tears from flowing. With a defeated and heavy sigh, he sheathed his blade before wrapping his arm around Zuko - helping him climb up to the top of the ridge. The entire time, Toph had followed without another word, all while the haunting continued cries of pain bruised its way into their ears for an eternity.
"T - Toph..."
Her chest tightened, and her breathing had caught in her throat. Slowly, her pupils had widen at the familiarity in the voice that called her name. Tears began to flow - she could contain them no longer. That voice... it was him - truly him. The monstrosity that they were facing had faded, overwhelmed by the true nature of its container. Aang - it was truly him. His voice - the voice she took comfort in - the voice she adored more than any other - the voice of the man she truly loved.
"S - Sokka..."
He too had a similar reaction much like Toph. Flooded with memories of how he and Aang were - the reminiscing past had triggered a brotherly love that was thought to have never existed. He wouldn't forget - he refused to forget, much like now - gazing below to boy who cried for his name.
"Z - Zuko..."
Taking a deep breath, his eyes had closed momentarily as he balled his hands into a fist. Though he and Aang had their differences at first, he still cherished the amount of time the two bonded with one another. Still, he refused to allow fractures of the past to overrule his sense of judgement. He know all to well of who was behind that desperate cry. It wasn't him... not anymore. Not after his intended murder on Katara. There's absolutely no way someone could find clarity after falling so low to commit such an act. .
While the three had glanced below - staring at the person who they had just been battling earlier. Instead, the sight that greeted them was a desperate and frightened boy who reached for them. He was not afraid of death... he was afraid of being alone. Abandoned to be rendered as nothing but a memory that would fade in ones mind through the laws of time - as if he never existed.
"Please... help me."
That did it. That was all it took to convince Toph. It really was him, without a doubt. She alongside Sokka had made an attempt to approach him. To hold him - to care for him - and love him. This would be the moment to rewrite all of their wrongs, all of them moving forward to reconstruct their shattered friendship into a new one... a better one.
"Don't!"
Zuko was the one who kept them from in place. He too would've fallen for such a plea, but he couldn't risk it. Despite the Avatar being handicapped, he was still cautious as to what he may be up to. This could be a trick to lure them into a trap like he had fallen for. He would not allow it.
"Trust me, he's not real." Looking away, he whispered softly. "He's not coming back... it's over."
Watching the scene unfold in front of him, Aang had been filled with relief momentarily when seeing Toph and Sokka had react to his plea. He would be saved, they forgave him - just as he had a lot of work to do to rebuild their friendship. It took this one moment of clarity to see through his flaws. His desperation to bring about a better world had blinded him from what truly mattered - them. His friends who had grown to be family. This was where he belonged, not in some unknown world seeking his origins. This was it, this was home. A moment of redemption... squashed.
Once more, they turned away. They ignored him, and chose him once again! A place where he once belonged to, rejecting his presence in place for another! The hope that was in his eyes had lost its fire. Replaced by a desire for something more... something that was always needed! His one final cry for acceptance - ignored even by them! Gritting his teeth, he bared them as if they were fangs while watching them leave.
"I hate you! All of you!"
The night had set upon Crescent Island. The only thing that could be comprehended to those who knew what was happening were the dying screams of the Avatar. His spirits shattered beyond repair while he was left to believe that this world had abandoned him.
Spirit Realm, Council of the Past Avatars
Elsewhere in Spirit Realm, dozens of Avatar's had gathered in regards to a specific topic. The tragic fate and destiny of Avatar Aang. Throughout their lineage, their had been Avatars who hadn't lived up to the expectations of past and future inheritors, but none of those had fallen so low like what has become of Aang. The chatter around the large council room was active, signifying of their mass presence.
In the center, a platform where the host would begin the meeting. It was Roku who had summoned them all, and it was he who was the first to speak on this matter. Being the Avatar's immediate predecessor, he felt it was only right to do so. Standing in front of his countless of previous lives, he addressed the topic of the yet to be deceased Avatar. His voice boomed across the walls, echoing endlessly before fading in the distance.
"I'm sure we all understand as to why we are here today. We've all felt it, a massive shift in balance among both the living and spirit realm is among us."
"And it was all caused by the irresponsibility of the current Avatar." One Avatar retorted, clearly not pleased with the current state of the world.
"The child did nothing wrong." Yangchen had spoke up. Unlike many others, she felt sympathy towards the current inheritor of their kind. It was their fault for not helping him more, they were just as guilty as many others were. "If we had helped and interfered more, he wouldn't have gone down such a path! We're just as guilty in this!"
Kuruk glared at Yangchen, a glare had presented itself as he looked at his own predecessor. "The child was desperate and naive, Yangchen. If he hadn't snooped around, he wouldn't have caused such a mess."
Returning his glare, she scoffed at his response. "Oh really? Should I remind you of your desperation to achieve vengeance after Koh had taken your fiancee just moments before your wedding?"
Standing to his feet, he faced her in a heated stare. "You best watch your tongue, Yangchen... if you know what's good for you."
She stood and gave him a snarky smirk. "Just like using our status to benefit your own selfish desires in your time benefited you?"
"Why you-"
"Settle down!" Roku demanded.
With the way the worlds condition currently is, there was no time for such childish behavior to reveal. Even from individuals as respected as the Avatar's. As silence once again embraced them, a particular person of interest had caught his eye. He smiled, thankful that he had actually shown up to one of these meetings for once.
"Avatar Wan. Seeing as how you're the first among us to ever claim the title of Avatar, which surely makes you the wisest out of all, what is your input about the current conditions of our worlds and the recommended steps we should take to prevent such a thing to continue."
He remained silent. His gaze had stared blankly ahead as he tried to comprehend the current state of their worlds. Taking a small breath, he released it before speaking. "As I'm sure you've all felt, Avatar Aang had tampered with my seal on Vaatu. The one thing that keeps him from unleashing darkness upon us all. The seal that was suppose to last another eighty had been weakened. Now, I predict that Vaatu would be free no more than twenty years in the future."
Kyoshi had expressed her shock. "Vaatu? But I thought it was said your seal would be impenetrable."
Softly nodding, he voice disappointment in his next words. "I thought so too. However, after my death I made it my responsibility to oversee Vaatu's permanent imprisonment. After the first few hundred years after my death has passed, I noticed the seal itself weakens over time. We are now in the last last cycle until he's able personally free himself. I was hoping either Aang, or the next after Avatar would be able to reseal Vaatu for another 10,000 or so years into the future until we figure out a way to keep him their permanently... but now - I'm afraid it's a little too late for that."
"And of Avatar Aang?" Kuruk voiced. "What would become of him now?"
Raising an eyebrow, he expressed visible confusion. "What of him? Judging by his life force, he should be passing any minute now. The Avatar cycle will continue, with or without him."
Kyoshi further explained. "I believe what Avatar Kuruk was trying to say was - should he be allowed a place among us."
Wan shrugged. "Now, that's not entirely up to me really. Though I am the first among us, I do not share your voice. We come from a similar role, yet our beliefs still differ much from one another. There are many, if not - all Avatars present today. The majority of votes shall seal his fate."
A wave of approval had spread across the room, and within a few minutes - the voting began. It was decided that the host would be the one to count them ballots. Each respective vote would end up in their individual piles. As he counted the last vote, the sadness in his eyes was almost readable.
"It seems that in the end, the vote was ended up from 92 to 108, with the majority voting to reject Aang's place among us."
There was a wave of disappointment and smiles in faces around, and Roku was about to disband this meeting after seeing that it has served its purpose. Until an unexpected visitor had made an appearance. An old monk of the Air Nation walked towards the center, revealing himself to be eaves dropping on their meeting.
"Stop this, please! You can't do this to him!"
Struck with surprise, Roku could only blink surprisingly. "Gyatso? What are you doing here?"
"Protecting my pupils rightful place." He answered before facing to address the entirety of the Avatar's.
"Aang may be a lot of things, but please understand that evil isn't one of them. He isn't what you all believe for him to be. As Avatar Yangchen has stated earlier, none of this would've happened if you all had done your part in helping him seek place in this world. Please, don't do this to him! He's suffered enough among the living, don't have him suffer any longer in the afterlife."
The room remained silent while listening to what the old Monk had to say. Those who stood by Aang still supported him, but those who stood against him were still too reluctant to budge. A small look of defeat seemed to grow upon the old monks face, and Roku placed an arm on his shoulder in order to console him.
"Gyatso. I don't want for this to happen either, but the boy you trained so long ago. That boy is gone - You must understand."
Gyatso closed his eye's, doing his best to control himself. The next words coming out of his mouth was all he had to say in response.
"I know."
The cries of a woman in labor had echoed across the halls of the airship. The medics who were on board did their best to ease her pain in order make her delivery process as smoothly as possible. On the other side of the room, a window where Iroh had been nervously watching. He bit his thumb, hoping for the best. These moments were hard for anyone to partake in, primarily those who give birth to such life - but it was also moments like these that brought about the beauty of life. Zuko had finally returned, and it was enough to bring him out of his thoughts. Noticing the broken arm, the retired general grew concerned.
"Zuko?" He rushed over. "Are you alright?"
Giving a small and lightly pained smile, he assured him of his well-being. "I'm fine, uncle." Hearing Katara cry out in pain caused him to stop. Realization had settled, yet still he looked to his uncle for clarification. "Is she?"
"Yes, Zuko. She's undergoing labor."
Without a second thought, he rushed over to the window along with Sokka and Toph who were also intrigued at the news. Watching through the window, the amount of medical personnel around her had confirmed his thoughts. Pushing passed the two, he entered the room and immediately went along side his fiance - holding her hand with the only one that still properly functioned.
Feeling his palm against her own, she knew its touch anywhere. "Z-Zuko?" She blinked through the tears.
He smiled. "Katara. It's okay, I'm here. Just breath and push!"
"What the fuck do you think I'm doing-Augh!" Her grip on his hand tightened tremendously causing him to wince. "Zuko... please. There's still good in him, I just know there is."
He knew who she was speaking of, but refused to acknowledge at this time of need. Hearing a babies cry fill the room made everyone's heart sigh in relief that the hard part was now over. The medic wrapped a blanket around the child and handed it over to the Fire Lord.
"It's a boy." The medic proclaimed.
Watching the baby with delight, she smiled at its cuteness. "T - Tenzin." She muttered his name. She would've taken this time to adore her child, instead, she was cut off by another overwhelming pain pushing just below her abdomen. Her screams returned causing many to jump in surprise.
"T-There's another!" A medic announced.
Sokka had entered the room just in time to hear the news. "Twins!"
Hollering in pain, she struggled to push the second child to come out. It took a few more minutes, but in time another babies cry had filled the room. This one a little higher than the first.
"It's a girl." The medic announced again.
Looking over at her second child, a sense of exhaustion had drooped from her eyes. 'K - Kya." She named.
Sokka had smiled at the name knowing all too well who that name belonged to before her. "Just like mom." He whispered.
Wrapping the child in another blanket, the medic attempted to hand the child to Zuko once again, but he waved it off after mentioning that his other hand was broken. The medic nodded and instead handed it over to Sokka who cooed at baby Kya while she continued to cry.
"Zuko..."
He looked over at Katara, her tired eye's said it all on how exhausted she had become.
"It's okay, my love." He smiled. "Rest now."
"T-The children." She softly mumbled. "I... should've told you... sooner. But... they... aren't... yours." Her eye's finally closed, and the welcoming atmosphere of sleep overcame everything else. She rested now, leaving Zuko to think about what she had just said.
"They aren't mine?" Looking down at the two, he didn't know what to think. Moments later, she shook those thoughts out of his head. What was is he thinking? Doubting himself now, after so long? He shouldn't care about who they belonged to after what they just came out of. In fact, he didn't. He would raise them as his own. Because that's what fathers do.
.
.
.
Right?
The choppy crumbling voice of the Avatar remained. Their was burns hot enough to be charred in the cut off ends of his legs left as stubs. Thankfully, it was able to stop the bleeding while smoke rising from his burnt flesh left him feeling disoriented and helpless. He was nothing at this point. With no body to move, all he was waiting for was to shrivel up and die. His lust for revenge still remnant, but his body too weak and in pain to do anything about it. He squinted his eye's after seeing something rather bright fill his vision, and then a strange creature with many legs began to crawl towards him.
"Well, well. If it isn't the Avatar." Koh smiled. "Usually I don't interfere in these kind of outcomes. After all, I do love watching your kind die after a struggling battle... but, Vaatu is quite threatening to me lately. He demands too, and his priorities are unusual - specifically about you. I'm curious, why are so special to him?" He chuckled maniacally. "Still, I'd rather not know. The less I understand, the better. Getting on his bad side would be troubling, even for me. So, you should be grateful that I was tasked to save you. Even after everything you've done. All of the struggles and personal challenges you had to endure. In the end, the world still turns its back on you... but we haven't. Otherwise I wouldn't be here. Vaatu wishes for your presence with open arms. Consider yourself lucky to be given such mercy by the very thing your lineage swore to destroy."
Aang groaned, unable to voice a single response to Koh.
"No, no don't talk now. You're wounded." Taking pleasure in his vulnerable state, Koh had scooped him up and placed him on his back. "Come along now, it's time to bring you home. Don't worry, unlike everyone else, we won't betray you. No, we'll take good care of you - Avatar Aang." Crawling through the portal that lead into the spirit realm, his next destination would be to bring the Avatar to Vaatu. He intrigued as to what Vaatu had in store for Aang. This was something that never happened before, not throughout his thousands of years of life. If he were truly to be honest with himself about one thing, it's that he could hardly wait to see the outcome of all of this.
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End of Chapter 16
Lemme know your thoughts, since this is like the first real remake of this chapter since like... it was ever released.
-TheLivingMyth
Reupdated as of January 13th 2021
