Disclaimer: I do not own the Legend of Korra or Avatar the Last Airbender. I only own my own characters and ideas
Book three Destiny Chapter Twelve: Ending the War
Ren slowly started to open her eyes, but her head hurt. She heard people talking in the other room, but couldn't hear everything they were saying. She tried to move her legs, but her feet and hands were bound. She looked down to see rope around her legs, and assumed the same was around her wrist. She shook her head, thinking of how stupid whoever kidnapped her was. She used her firebending to burn the ropes, getting up as quickly and quietly as possible. She leaned against the wall, listening to the conversation. She listened to the conversation for a while before she ran out of the building. She didn't realize how terrible she felt until she was a block or two away from the building. She started to feel lightheaded, and she knew she would never make it back to the island.
She looked around to see where she was and who she could get to the fastest. She held her head, trying to figure out where she was. She finally realized she was close to the Police Headquarters. She started to walk in the direction of the building, hoping she would make it. When she made it, she walked through the lobby up the stairs. She weaved through officers until she bumped into a desk almost falling on the ground. She looked to see Ming about to walk away, but she grabbed him. He turned around, staring at her for a minute.
"Ren, you're alright," Ming said. Ren grabbed her head before she fell against him. "Woah there. Let's get you to the chief's office and get you a healer."
Ming helped Ren walk toward Lin's office. He knocked on her door waiting for a response, but Ren didn't have the patience for that. She opened the door, walking in to see the massive group. Everyone looked up to see Ming helping Ren stand. Ren watched as relief washed over the group's faces. Ren could feel her head pound then a wave of nausea. She started to lean forward, almost falling to the ground, but Kai caught her.
"Hi daddy. How's the search going?" Ren asked.
"Better now that we found who we were searching for," Kai said.
"I swear if I see Kanan or anymore of his men I'm going to…" Sky said before Ren interrupted him.
"Well, I mean you can still hurt Kanan and his men, but they didn't kidnap me. It happened to be members of the triads. Raava, that sounded worse out loud. Anyway, they didn't even work for Kanan and they wanted to hand me over to him faster than Hope eats her meals," Ren said.
Lin looked at her with an eyebrow raised before she opened a file. She showed Ren a picture, but Ren shrugged. Ren moved her head forward, trying to keep her eyes open. Lin slapped her face a bit, trying to keep Ren conscious. Ren's eyes closed and her head fell back. Kai grabbed her head, revealing a small amount of blood. Sky crouched down, moving Ren's hair to touch the gash on her head. No one knew how long she had been bleeding. Sky pulled water out of the pitcher on Lin's desk, trying to heal Ren as fast as possible. Ming handed Sky the med kit then Sky wrapped Ren's head with gauze. Ren was placed on Lin's cot to Ren' in hopes she would be okay.
A few hours later
Ren started to groan, but stayed in the cot. She touched her head, pulling the blanket over her face. Lin shook her head, chuckling. Ren placed her hand on the ground as she tried to crawl out of bed. When she looked around the only person in the room was Lin. She laid on the cold ground, waiting or hoping her headache would go away. Ren stood, walking over to the empty chair in front of Lin's desk. Lin handed her a bottle of aspirin along with a glass of water. Before Ren could take the two aspirin Ekta barged in Lin's office.
"I heard you found Ren. Is she okay? Where is she?" Ekta asked.
"I was okay as I am going to be until you barged in yelling about I don't even know what. Someone should really consider muzzling you. Are you married? If not consider retiring and looking for someone, because you are a pain in my butt. Oh, Raava I have a headache," Ren said.
"I'm not married. I am a pain in your butt because there is a war. Maybe after this term I will look for someone special. Lin seems to be doing fine and from what I hear Toph did just fine without a man," Ekta said.
Ren turned, looking at Ekta, but said nothing. Ren stood, walking passed Ekta to see officers filling out paperwork. She started to walk into the main lobby when she felt someone grab her. She turned around to see Ming with an armful of files. Ren helped Ming with the files hoping he could help her. She smiled as they walked into the record room. She placed the files on the counter, smiling at Ming before she slipped out of his view. She started to look through files as fast as she could. She found the file she was looking for and ran out of the record room before anyone could see her. She started to walk up the stairs quickly, trying to hide the file. She ran into Sky and tried to hide the file before he could see it.
"You're awake. How are you feeling? What do you have there?" He asked
"I'm feeling okay I guess. I don't have anything," Ren said, but Sky was already reaching for the file. "Hey, let go. Let's go in your office and I will show you."
Ren held the file close to her as she and Sky walked to his office. When they arrived at their destination Ren looked around, pushed Sky in his office, walked in, and slammed the door, before locking it. Sky raised an eyebrow as Ren held the file up. The two walked over to his desk and Ren placed the file down. Sky soon realized why Ren wanted to hide the file. Ren went to open the file, but Sky stopped her. She looked at him, but he shrugged. He sat down, pulling her into his lap.
"Look, I don't think this a good idea. I get Kanan didn't kidnap you, but you shouldn't talk to him. I mean maybe Haru can help you. You're the avatar and the world needs you. I love you and want you to be safe, and I hated seeing your family so concerned because they didn't know if you were okay," Sky said.
"Hong Li isn't a threat at this point. If you don't feel comfortable with me talking to him you or Lin could stand in the room. Haru didn't even know about his father betraying him. There is no way he was included in much," Ren said.
Sky looked through the file, reading everything he had written. Hong Li didn't give them any information at all. Sky then thought about how Ren was very persuasive when she wants to be. He figured there would be no harm in letting Ren talk to him, unless Ren harmed him anyway. Sky looked at Ren for a minute, trying to think of something that would work. He walked out of his office for a minute, quickly returning to tell Ren to follow him. The two walked down a hallway, toward the interrogation rooms. Ren looked in the small room before the interrogation room to see Lin looking through the glass. Sky opened the door, revealing Hong Li sitting in the room. Ren smiled before entering the room and shutting the door behind her. She walked over to the table, leaning against it as she looked at Hong Li.
Ren looked at the table, noticing that he was handcuffed to it. She pushed the table a bit, watching as it pulled it with him. She walked over, sticking her foot on his chair and he looked at her. She grabbed his face, squeezing it as she debated on kicking his chair from under him. He tried to pull his face away from her, but she gripped it tighter.
"You're going to tell me everything you know. I need to know everything," Ren said.
Ren released Hong Li's face so he could look at her. He looked forward, not saying a word. He started to laugh before he looked at Ren. He spit on her, and she growled. She wiped her face, backing away from him. Ren kicked the chair from under Hong Li, grabbing his hair and pulling his head back. She took her other hand and grabbed his throat.
"You're going to tell me everything you know. Hong Li, I swear I have no patience at all. Please don't make me want to kill you, because I don't want to make all that paperwork for Lin. I don't want to tell Haru either, so cut the shit and tell me what you know. I'm going to kill your father no matter what. I will kill him even if I am taking my last breath. I hope you enjoyed the last time you saw your father, because it was the last," Ren said.
Hong Li looked at her for a minute, but still said nothing. Ren slid a file in front of Hong Li, opening it. He looked and his eyes widening. Ren grabbed the file and opened the door. She looked at him for a moment before slamming the door behind her. She walked into the small room on the other side of the glass and handed Lin the file as the two looked through the glass. They watched as he kneeled in front of the table. Lin patted Ren's shoulder before she walked into the interrogation room. Ren walked out of the room, heading to the main lobby. When Ren arrived in the lobby she saw Tenzin waiting for her. She gave him a confused look before walking over to him.
"Grandpa Tenzin, what are you doing here? Never mind I know why you're here. I get kidnapped and everyone thinks I can't handle myself. Look, I got away by myself," Ren said.
Ren received a look from Tenzin and she knew she wasn't getting out of him taking her home. Ren growled as she followed Tenzin to the ferry. When they were finally on the ferry Ren looked over Yue Bay. She had to think of a plan to stop Kanan. She had no clue what his plan was, or if he moved from Zaofu. Ren used her waterbending to pull water out of the bay out of anger. She felt a hand on her shoulder and she placed the water back in the bay. She looked at Tenzin, pushing his hand off of her shoulder before walking away. When they finally arrived at the island Ren walked up the stairs to her room. She slammed the door, walking over to her desk, and pulled every bit of information she had about Kanan so far.
Ren had been up all night looking through her stuff on Kanan. She thought about the day he captured Zaofu. Lin had told her she had to go in with a plan or they would fail. Ren knew she had to have a plan this time or she would fail there would be no doubt about it. Ren just had to figure out for sure what that plan was she didn't want anyone else to get hurt. Kanan had other plans for her. Maybe those other plans included hurting tons of people. Ren stood and walked down the hall to the courtyard. Tonight, was a full moon and if the Earth Republic had attacked tonight their chances would have lowered because the United Forces had waterbenders. Ren was thinking of how she could take her troops into the Earth Republic, but maybe it is best to let Kanan come to her. Ren had always searched for the bad guy and it had got her nothing, but hurt.
She looked at the moon one more time before heading down the hall. She walked past her parent's room and stopped. She didn't know why, but something told her to open the door. When she did she saw them both sound asleep, but she still went in. Something was telling her that she should be in that room. Ren walked over to her parent's bed, smiling at them. She saw that the space she and Lee would lay in as a child, wishing she could lay there. She soon saw her mother move closer to her father and lift the blankets a bit. Ren smiled at her as she crawled into the bed. Jinora started to run her fingers through Ren's hair until they both fell asleep.
Ren looked around to see herself in Zaofu. Other plans Avatar Ren. Ren looked around for someone to help her. She looked down when she felt the earth below her start to incase her feet. She tried to bend it off, but she couldn't. She watched as it continued to move up her body. Kanan appeared in front of her and she tried to break free. She couldn't use her bending. Kanan touched Ren's face, before grabbing her shirt and held it. Ren continued to try and break free, but no matter what she did she was stuck. Ren saw as Kanan made a spike out of earth and played with it for a bit. Ren felt a sharp pain and saw Kanan stab her.
"I hope you like my other plans for you Avatar," Kanan said.
Ren sat up and looked around, touching her stomach. She saw the sun was just coming up, and her parents were still asleep. She wiped the sweat off her head, climbing out of bed. She walked to the bathroom, washing her face. Ren went to open the door, but the door had already started to slide open. Ren and Pema stared at each other for a while before Ren wrapped her arms around her and started to cry. Pema started to run her fingers through Ren's hair, waiting for her to calm down. Ren didn't know why she had to cry in front of people about her problems. Ren felt so weak when she cried in front of people. She finally pulled away from Pema and tried to walk away.
"Ren, there is nothing wrong with crying. You have been through a lot. We were expecting you to cry more, or to do a lot more of something. Sweetheart, please stop trying to hold it all in," Pema said.
Ren turned around and looked at her for a moment, before she smiled. Ren knew she was right. Someone cleared their throat, making Ren turn around. Tenzin stood there, watching Ren. He gestured for her to follow him. The two went to the pavilion and sat down. They began to meditate for the morning until Ren felt something was off. She tried to brush the feeling, but she couldn't. Ren opened her eyes for a moment, quickly closing them to try and meditate again. She soon found herself in the Spirit World. Ren looked around, wondering why she was in the Spirit World. She didn't purposely bring herself there so someone wanted her there. Ren soon ran into Aang and Korra. She knew she would be receiving what would most likely be her last bit of Avatar advice before the final battle. She smiled and bowed to the two.
"Ren, you will have to stop Kanan at the next battle. That will also be the biggest and final battle. At this point he is going to close in on you and try to crush you just as Ozai tried to with me. Ren, please remember that no matter what either side has a chance to win or lose. I could have lost to the Fire Nation during Sozin's comet, but I didn't. Please remember that, because you are the Avatar does not mean you are invincible," Aang said.
"Aang is right about invincibility. I thought I was and I ended up losing my bending. I then forgot the lesson I learned and let Vaatu out of the Tree of Time. Please remember the Avatar State only protects you for so long, and you cannot die in it. You know that will end the Avatar cycle forever if you do," Korra said.
Ren nodded, because she didn't know what to say. She turned around, and when she did she was back at Air Temple Island. Ren knew they were warning her about something, but what? She stood up, walking away from Tenzin, hoping she would figure it out. Was it because of her battle with Vikram when she was younger, or even Jun and Hyun? Ren stopped where she stood and thought about her battle with Vikram. She had never truly forgiven herself for killing him. She was so young, yet she had still killed him. She had thought about how all the destruction he had caused and how Ren had failed him. Now Kanan is causing more destruction and Ren is failing the world. Ren was so lost in her thoughts she ran into Su. She looked at the woman quickly apologizing before she made her way to her room.
At City Hall Ekta sat in her office and wondered what she was going to do if Kanan had attacked. She knew she was suppose to have hope in the Avatar, but the girl had been failing them. Kanan had gotten the original plans, because of Ren. Kanan even took over many territories because of Ren. There was a building collapse and Ren could have prevented it. The press loved her for all the wrong reasons. In Ekta's opinion Ren should have ended the war a long time ago. Ren was suppose to be very powerful, and Ekta has seen how powerful she is many times. She only wished Ren would end the war. Ekta looked up when she heard a knock on the door. She saw the City page walk in with a stack of files in her hand. Ekta took the files and thanked the page. Ekta was hesitant to open the files, but she knew she had to. When she did she saw Kanan had slowly conquered more land in the Earth Republic that was closer to Republic City. She knew she would have to tell Ren immediately.
Ekta stood, grabbing the file and as she made her way for Air Temple Island. She knew the chances of someone being up were slim, but she had to go. Ekta had been sleeping less and less as Kanan and his army got closer to Republic City. As the woman stood on the ferry that slowly approached the temple she hoped that Avatar Ren had a better plan. When Ekta arrived, she walked up the stairs and looked for the closest person. Ekta found Suyin first and she grabbed her arm, handing Suyin the file. Suyin opened the file before she looked at Ekta and the president nodded. Suyin, and Ekta quickly walked toward Ren's room. The two almost knocked Tenzin over as they rushed toward the young Avatar's room. Suyin grabbed Tenzin's arm, pulling him with them. Suyin opened the door to see Ren sleeping on top of Hope. The Matriarch of Zaofu walked up to her and started to shake her.
"Ren wake up. Ren seriously you need to wake up now. Kanan conquered the last of the Earth Republic territories. Ren, he is on his way," Suyin said.
Ren sat up and looked at Suyin and the woman nodded. Ren was handed the file. She quickly looked through it before she got up and ran to everyone's room to wake them up. She didn't even bother to change and she didn't care. Kanan was on his way. He wasn't going to rest, and she wasn't going to either. Everyone had to be ready, and now. The people Ren had not yet woken up stuck their heads out of their rooms to see what was going on. Ren looked at them with a serious look, not knowing how to break the news.
"Kanan conquered the last of the Earth Republic. He's on his way here. We need to be ready. Get the troops ready, and ourselves. Haru I need to talk to you," Ren said.
Haru looked at Ren as everyone walked in their rooms. Ren gestured for him to hurry up. She didn't have time for everyone to mess around. They all needed to hurry up so they could get to the troops. Haru just looked at her with a half smile. She raised her eyebrow a bit.
"Haru, calm down alright. I just need to talk to you. We are going into battle with your grandfather. You betrayed him, but he betrayed us. I need to know you are really going to have our back during this battle. I don't need you to change your mind in the middle of the fight," Ren said.
Haru nodded. " I understand and I have your back," he said.
Ren nodded at him, and the two departed. Ren walked into her room to get ready. Hope looked at her, but Ren didn't want Hope to go to this battle. Kanan and every enemy always used Hope as a weakness. Hope, family, and friend were Ren's biggest weaknesses. Everyone knew that. Ren grabbed her pouches for water. Ren looked in the mirror, realizing she had changed so much in the last two years. The war had really taken its toll on her. After today she wouldn't have to worry about it and she could relax. She grabbed her blades, her cables, and made her way for the door. Hope got up and followed her. Ren knew telling that armadillo lion no was pointless. When Ren arrived in the courtyard she saw that a decent amount of the group was ready. They all looked up at her.
Ren didn't know what she was going to tell anyone. She didn't know what she was going to tell the troops, her family, or even herself before battle. She didn't know what to do. She knew that plan wouldn't work they would be massacred if they used it. Ren felt someone squeeze her shoulder. She looked back to see Kuvira, and Suyin smiling at her. She tried to fake a smile, but she knew she was failing. She turned around to try and show everyone some form of confidence. The remaining members of the group came and they left the island and made their way to where the United Forces ships are stationed. The troops were already starting to get ready so Ren made her way to the ground to see if the troops in the city were getting ready.
As Ren quickly made her way through the city making sure the troops were collecting themselves to head toward the border of the city she thought of ways to make Kanan back off without a fight. There had to be a way. She made her way back to the ships, looking at the water. The troops made their way off the ships toward the city border. Ren didn't want a fight. She thought maybe she could talk Kanan into surrendering. That never worked who was she kidding. She followed the troops and looked at each individual as they walked past her. She looked at her family and friends and knew they were ready to defend the city at all cost. Pema had come along, but she had to agree to stay in the strategy tent. When the troops finally arrived, they stood there for a moment. The tents were quickly set up and the troops got into their positions.
Ren looked over the land field that would soon become a battle ground. She never wanted this to happen. She never thought this would happen. She had to stop it. Kanan couldn't take Republic City. She couldn't let him. He had already taken so much from so many people. She would rather take her last breath than let him take Republic City and ruin more lives. She soon saw Kanan and his troops heading her way. She put her chin in the air and took a deep breath. She turned around and gave her family a hug. The Beifong family hugged her then Iroh and his family. They all knew they were going into a war. That means any of them might not walk out. Ren turned to Hope and the armadillo lion walked over to her, licking her face before she placed her body under Ren. Hope walked in front of the troops and stood there as Ren held her head high. Kanan and his troop had stopped moving and stood looking at Ren.
"I have come for Republic City," Kanan said.
"Well you can't have it. You can just give up and turn yourself over now Kanan. Please make this easier on me and yourself," Ren said.
"I am going to take this city Avatar Ren. Even if I have to kill you and go through that army to take it. I will take every territory to prove my point. The next avatar won't even be able to stop me," Kanan said.
Ren looked at Kanan for a moment and knew she wasn't going to talk him into backing down. She looked down at Hope and the scars she had gained over the years. She looked backed at her family. Her grandfather was getting too old to fight. She knew Su and Lin were too but wouldn't admit it. The following generation wasn't as agile as they use to be either. Ren's body even took a beating in this war. She looked at her team, and watched as they stared at her. Ren climbed off of Hope's back, and moved her head toward the troops. Everyone looked at her with a confused look. This was Ren's fight she had started it and she was going to finish it. She had ignored Kanan and he started a war. She was going to end it.
"Kanan, this is our fight. You and I. We will fight for Republic City. No help from anyone. It will be like Zaofu. If you win you get Republic City, and if I win you give up. No one else needs to get hurt Kanan," Ren said.
"Interesting. You are willing to fight alone for one city," Kanan said.
"She is betting my city?! Has she lost her mind?!" Ekta yelled.
"Trust her Ekta," Tenzin said.
"Suyin did and she lost her city!" Ekta yelled.
"I would still let her make that deal over again because Ren is strong and I had to take a leap of faith. My city may be in one piece when I get back. Ren gave her life for my family and my citizens. Trust her, " Su said.
"Kanan just make a damn choice. Are you going to fight me or not?" Ren asked.
Kanan nodded. He turned to his troops and placed his hand up, signaling them to stand down. Ren looked back and the troops knew to stand down. Ren walked forward, waiting for Kanan's first move. When Kanan wouldn't move Ren didn't know what to do. She was always taught to wait for the first move. Kanan started to run toward her, and she made a small hill of ice then use her metalbending to bend her cables into a sled. Kanan didn't even know how to react to her being so quick. Ren sent an air blast, knocking him on the ground. Kanan punched the ground forming cracks. One eventually split, making Ren fall through. Kanan wanted to close it, but Ren pushed her arms and legs against the walls as she wedged up. She was able to get out before Kanan close the ground on her. Ren jumped up, looking at Kanan. He kicked the ground, making a giant chunk of earth come out of the ground. He kicked it at Ren, making her slide back. Everyone watched the battle hoping their party would win. Jinora only watched remembering the battle Korra had with Kuvira. Su watched hoping that Ren didn't have the same outcome as Zaofu. She wasn't worried about the city, but Ren.
Ren sent a few air blasts, but they didn't faze Kanan. Kanan continued to throw chunk of earth at Ren. Ren decided to use her lavabending. She stomped her foot, exposing the lava. Kanan looked at her, but Ren was not going to back out. She sent the lava toward him, but before it could do anything she stopped. He looked at her, not knowing what she was doing. He never noticed Ren solidify the lava. Ren pulled a chunk of obsidian out, knocking the old man back. Ren ran toward him as he got up, sending an air blast with her fist. She knocked him down again. He got up quickly this time. Ren slammed her hands together making a burst of flame come out. She missed Kanan, but he kicked the ground making the spot she stood at fling her in the air. She used a trick that her great Grandma Tylee showed her to land, then did a flip. Ren ran toward Kanan, avoiding every chunk of earth he threw at her. She got close enough to punch him, but before she could she felt a sharp pain in her stomach. She looked down to see the knife partly in her stomach. She looked at him with wide eyes. She shook her head, grabbing onto one of his arms. He shoved it in further, twisting it as he smiled. Ren started to tear up from the pain as Kanan yanked the knife from her stomach. He pulled Ren closer to him, stabbing her one more time and whispering in her ear.
"Do you like my other plans for you?" Kanan asked.
"No," Ren managed to say.
"Good," Kanan said as he pushed Ren away.
Ren tried to stand as Kanan walk past her, but it was very difficult. She turned around, showing everyone her wounds. Jinora grabbed Kia as Ren still stood. Pema ran out of the tent to grab Tenzin. Everyone watched as Kanan walked toward Ekta, and Ren fought to stand. Ren finally fell to the ground, breathing heavily. She tried to keep her eyes open, but it was hard. She even tried to get up. Both sides watched as the avatar lay dying on the battlefield. Kanan finally stood in front of Ekta and everyone that was there. He turned to look at Ren struggling to get up, and breathe. He smiled then laughed a little. He turned back to Tenzin, Jinora, and Kai.
"Such a nice girl. She was such a weak avatar though. Waste of an avatar if you ask me," Kanan said.
Kai tightened his fist, but he felt Jinora squeeze his arm. She even pulled it back and shook her head. Jinora knew Kanan had done his damage. Hitting him wasn't going to do anything.
"He isn't worth it Kai. Ren wouldn't want us to do this. She made that deal and we have to follow it even if she dies and he says what he does," Jinora said.
"Ekta, I believe you owe me a city now," Kanan said, touching Ekta.
Ekta pulled away, as Kanan laughed. He looked down when he felt the metal cable around his arm. The next thing anyone knew Kanan was flying toward his troops. Everyone looked at Ren, noticing her eyes were glowing. Kanan had gone through two rows of his troops before he used his earthbending to stop himself. Kanan threw two giant chunks of earth at Ren. She jumped, kicking them back at him. He hit the ground, struggling to get up. Lin, Kuvira, Su, and the twins all felt their cables detach from their side. Ren used her cables to tie around Kanan's body. She used the twin's cables to pin his legs to the ground. She used the Beifong sister's cables to pin his arms. She used Kuvira's cables to cover his mouth.
Ren left the Avatar State, looking at Kanan before she fell to her knees. She started to fall on her side, but Kai caught her. He moved the hair out of her face as she cried. Ren said she would defend Republic City even if it meant she had to die, but she didn't think she actually had to die for the city to be saved. Jinora watched her little girl lay in her husband's hands as she struggled to take her lasts breathes.
"Daddy, I don't want to die. Not yet. I still want to be the avatar. I still want to save the world. This can't be how it's suppose to end for me," Ren said crying.
The Beifong Family looked at the young girl with sympathy. Kai started to tear up a bit, but didn't know what he could tell his daughter. The world leaders that were there said nothing. Tonraq didn't even know what to say. Tenzin stood there frozen. Sky pushed past everyone and sat next to Ren. He pulled his water out.
"Sky, I don't think that is going to help anymore," Kya said.
"We have to try something instead of standing hear as she dies! You can stand there, but I will try everything I can so that I know at least something was done. I love her and I won't give up on her!" Sky yelled at them.
Hope walked over, and laid next to Ren. Everyone could see that Hope was not strong either. Sky placed the water over Ren's stomach hoping it would do something, even provide comfort if she did die. Ren placed her hand on Hope's head. Ren heard a truck coming toward her. Ren rolled toward Hope, hugging her.
"We did good girl. We saved the world and kept peace for a long time. We helped people and they are grateful for that. Now it's just time to go," Ren said.
Ren closed her eyes, trying to fight for her life. She told Hope they should let go, but they couldn't. Ren started to feel weaker and she started to feel her body get heavier. Breathing became even harder for her. Ren heard the truck stop near her before she felt someone lift her off the ground. Ren managed open her eyes for a moment to see all the blood on the ground where she was and the blood that had gotten into Hope's fur. Ren looked at the person carrying her to see Sky. Ren smiled at him before she started to cough heavily. Suyin, and Kuvira earthbent the earth under Hope to place her in the truck. The two jumped in the back of the truck with the large cat.
The truck sped away with the group in it, leaving everyone else behind. Family, friends, troops, and world leaders all hoped that Avatar Ren pulled through. Ren closed her eyes and everything went black. She saw Korra and she wondered if that meant she was going to die. She wondered if Korra was going to be her guide into the Spirit World when she died. Ren looked at Korra and the two just stared at each other. Ren started to look around, but she wasn't in the Spirit World. Did this mean she was going to live? She didn't understand Korra's reasoning of being here then. She continued to look at the water tribe woman, but neither said a word. Ren decided she would be the first to talk.
"Korra, did I die? Shouldn't Naga be here to guide Hope into the Spirit World? Wait where is Hope? I never talked to Raava like all the other times I almost died. Why didn't I get to talk to Raava? Korra? Hello? Earth to Korra or Spirit World...or wherever this is. Korra are you ever going to answer?" Ren asked.
Korra looked at Ren and shook her head. "Ren, you're not dead. Kanan stabbed you. Honestly if you give up that easily after all the things you have gone through you would let Aang and I down. We had high expectations for you. Ren if you die you would never even know how the fight ended. You would never know if you saved Republic City, ended the war, created peace and balance again, and as you always say fulfill your destiny as the avatar. Ren fight," Korra said before she vanished.
Ren looked around and thought about what Korra said. How was she suppose to fight her way out of this place? She didn't even know where this place was. She wondered if she was in her head. Did Korra even mean to fight her way out or did she mean she had to fight for life?
Everyone hoped that even though Ren had defeated Kanan that she survived. Most people only cared about Ren's well-being. They didn't even think about the result of the war. Ekta looked at Kanan before she walked over to him.
"You are lucky I can't bend. If she dies your punishment will be far worse than we intend to make it. You won't even able to receive redemption like Kuvira did. You will rot if we even let you live," Ekta said as everyone looked at her.
Kanan stared at her and shook his head. He knew she was bluffing. Ekta looked back at Lin, but Lin knew that Ren wouldn't want her to follow the order and potentially create a fight. Lin hung her head, shaking it, and wondering why she didn't just do what Ekta wanted her to do. Everyone heard a muffled scream, and looked at Kanan. The platinum plate around his mouth was getting tighter and digging into his face, drawing blood. Everyone was looking at all the platinunbenders to see who was attacking Kanan.
"Roku stop it! Stop it right now!" Opal yelled.
Everyone turned their attention to the young earthbender. He started to pull the platinum cables on Kanan's arms. Jinora saw the Earth Republic troops start to move toward Republic City. She took her staff and sent an air blast knocking a few troops down. Someone pulled Ekta, Pema in the tent to watch a fight Ren had tried to prevent. Roku stopped what he was doing and started to lavabend. He pulled as much as he could, backing the troops away from each other. An earthbender from the Earth Republic still managed to throw boulders at the United Forces. The Beifong family, Gopan, Ajala, Haru, Tuyen, and Master Suan earthbent the boulders into the lava. The firebenders sent quick jabs, waterbenders were trying to hit the Earth Republic troops. The Earth Republic troops continued to throw boulders across the lava in hopes of hitting people. Tenzin, and Jinora looked at each other. Jinora saw that Lee had stayed back like Ren wanted. She looked at her siblings and wondered what she was going to do. There was no avatar to save them right now.
"Daddy, what do we do?" Jinora asked.
"I don't know Jinora. I never thought things would get this bad. We can't even ask my father, or Korra. Unfortunately, we are on our own for this fight, but we need a plan," Tenzin said.
Jinora couldn't help but think how all the airbenders were standing back. Jinora ran in front of the United Republic troops. She heard Tenzin yell her name, but she continued to try get in front of the troops. She crouched down next to Kanan She saw how far Roku had dug the plate into his jaw. She could also tell that Roku pulled Kanan's shoulders out of the shocks. She looked him in the eyes and at the fight going on around her. She looked up at Bolin as he threw boulders at the Earth Republic troops. Someone had to help her with the lava and Roku was the one who brought it up in the first place.
At the Hospital
Kuvira tried to convince Kai, Sky that Ren would be okay even though she didn't believe it herself. The truck would need to have its whole seat replaced from blood loss, and Sky had to change his clothes. It would be a miracle if the avatar lived. Bloodbending was illegal, and it was a very rare gift. Ren had somehow acquired the gift and used it a handful of times. Sky thought about how bloodbending would save Ren's life, but he didn't say anything. Sky, and Kuvira looked up when someone pull Suyin to the side and they started to whisper. The woman put her hand over her mouth before she dismissed the man. Suyin looked at the three and tried to not worry them with the other problem at hand. Suyin looked at Ren's room, walking to the door before she touched it.
"Come on Ren. I know you can pull through this. Ren, you're going to have to pull through this, because we still need you," Suyin whispered before the door opened.
A doctor almost ran into her before he walked up to the desk. He started to look through some papers, and walked away. Sky had lost his patience with the doctor, and he could see Kai was going to. Sky made a water whip, grabbing the doctor's wrist, and pulling him back. The doctor looked at him as if he was too busy to answer any questions at the minute.
"Listen, that tis the avatar and we need to know her condition. You tell us her condition then you can go back to whatever you were doing that was so damn important," Sky said.
"That's the thing I can't really tell you Avatar Ren's condition, because every time we think she won't make it she does. If I tell you there is no hope then you go out there and think there is no hope for her. If I say she should wake up in a week and dies in a day then it seems I gave you false hope. To be honest we just have to play it by ear and see what happens...Hope for the best at this point," the doctor said.
The group walked into Ren's room, and Kuvira continued to watch Suyin. She knew there was something that the matriarch wasn't telling them. Kuvira turned her attention to Ren, and saw even Hope was still in terrible condition. Kai sat down next to Ren, slowly running his hands through her hair. He thought of how much she had grown, and how strong she had become. He watched as she occasionally changed her facial expression. Sky, and Kuvira looked at each other before looking at Suyin. The two walked over to Suyin, and just stood there. Su looked at them, and pointed toward the door. The three walked out of the room for a moment, leaving Kai to sit there and stare at Ren.
"Suyin what aren't you telling us?" Kuvira asked.
"There is a battle going on outside of Republic City. It started not long after we left, and Ren isn't there to stop the fight. There is no one to keep peace," Su said quietly as she looked in Ren's room.
"Aunt Suyin, we have to help them. We can't just let them fight and hope they win. We will leave Kai hear with Ren, and leave him in the dark about the situation. We need to do something, because Ren would want us to," Sky said.
"He is right Su. Ren would want us to defend Republic City. She wouldn't want us to stand by while the city and everyone needs our help," Kai said.
The three looked up to see the avatar's father standing not far from them. They smiled, but they didn't want him to leave Ren's side. Kai looked back at Ren, before he started for the entrance. The three followed him and knew they weren't going to change his mind. They knew Kai angry and wanted to take it out on someone. The four ran and made their way to the battle. Kai began to look around for Jinora, but couldn't find her. Sky nudged Kai, and pointed at Jinora who was still crouched down next to Kanan between the whole battle. Jinora was talking to Kanan, and one of the soldiers from the Earth Republic took advantage of the distraction. He threw a boulder at her, but Kai opened his wingsuit to try and get to Jinora as possible. When he got to her he grabbed her, and the two went in the air. The boulder missed Kanan and a soldier from the United Forces crushed it. Kuvira and Su looked at each other. The two ran between the troops before Kuvira used her earthbending to put herself in front of the Earth Republic troops, and Su put herself in front of the United Forces troops. Both sides stopped, looking at the two women.
"This is exactly why Kanan and Ren fought. They fought so you didn't have to risk your lives. You are acting like a bunch of fools. The war should have ended the moment Ren went into the avatar state and pinned Kanan to the ground," Su said.
"Yea, but he stabbed Ren..." Roku said before a soldier from the Earth Republic interrupted.
"You attacked Kanan even after the avatar handled the situation. We were protecting the Earth Republic like Kanan told us to do," the soldier said.
"No one is right in this situation. The Earth Republic has protection already, and Kanan was in the wrong in this situation and it isn't your fault that you got drug into it. Roku, yes Ren got hurt and we are all concerned, but we have to understand that is the risk of being the avatar. She risked her life for ours. We could have prevented this whole battle," Kuvira said.
"You can't push us around like you did when you did when you were the Great Uniter!" Someone shouted.
Kuvira looked at Su, and they both knew it was a losing battle. They needed Ren and right now that couldn't happen. The two women had to stand their ground or the two armies would fight until one no longer stood. Kuvira refused to move, and they would have to have to capture her, or kill her in order for her to move. Su stood in front of the United Forces troops, showing she was against anymore fighting. Both sides looked at the two women, trying to decide what their next move would be.
Back at the hospital
Ren was laying there as the radio played. Hope looked at Ren as the music played in the background. The armadillo lion looked at the radio when she heard the music suddenly stop and the announcer talk.
"Folks we are outside of Republic City where the avatar has been seen being taken away from the battle grounds. Not long after that he United Forces and the Earth Republic troops started to fight. Let's hope for a miracle everyone," the announcer said.
The United Forces and The Earth Republic troops started to fight. Let's hope for a miracle everyone. You're the miracle Ren. You need to wake up. They started to fight after you left. Ren wake up already. Stop being so weak. The world still needs you.
Ren opened her eyes slowly looking around. She saw Hope on the floor next to her. She heard the radio was now playing music. Ren knew her body was weak, but she had to get to the fight. She stuck her hand out, making Hope get up. Ren grabbed onto Hope's shell pulling herself out of bed, and onto the armadillo lion. Hope ran out of the room almost knocking a few nurses and Ren's doctor over.
"Avatar Ren, you need to stay here!" her doctor shouted.
"I can't with the war still going on!" Ren shouted back.
"You aren't in any condition to fight!" she heard him yell.
"I have to try!" she shouted before she left the hospital.
Hope started to run toward the outskirts of Republic City. They ran past a few reporters who looked shocked to see the young weak avatar. Ren leaned down, commanding Hope to go faster. Ren tried to think of what could have gone wrong after her battle with Kanan. Hope had reached a point where Ren could now see the battle. She couldn't believe what she was seeing. She didn't know if she had the strength to stop all of this.
"Hope go," She said.
The two took off toward the battle ahead of them. Hope started to run between the members of the United Forces while dodging attacks at the same time. Ren instructed Hope to get between the two set of troops. Hope ran and jumped over Kuvira. Ren jumped off of her back, sticking her hands out. She sent the strongest air blast that she could at both sets of troops. Ren knocked most of both the United Forces and the Earth Republic army down. Everyone looked at the avatar in shock as they lay on the ground.
" Enough of this fighting. I want it to end now. The war with the Earth Republic is done. Anyone who disobeys this will we taken into custody. By order of the Avatar I am stating that there is no longer a war, and we can should all stop acting like it and work on bettering the world again," Ren said.
"No," Kanan's second in command said as he stepped forward.
Ren looked at him, hoping he wasn't going to try to fight her. Hope stood next to Ren as Kanan's second in command continued to step away from the army. Everyone watched as Ren got into her fighting stance. The man started to laugh, knowing Ren was in no condition to fight. Ren knew she was in no condition to fight.
"Avatar Ren, surrender the city already. Everyone here knows you are in no condition to fight," he said.
He sent a large earth spike at Ren. Ren swung the spike around her body before throwing it back. She stood there waiting for the next move, trying not to tire herself out. The man threw two large chunks of earth at Ren. Ren pulled one apart, and Hope crushed the other chunk. Ren started to breath heavily. She had to win, but she didn't know why Kanan's second in command didn't stand down. Ren leaned against Hope a little, but still supported most of her own weight. She saw the man smile a bit, but she raised her chin. She was not going down without a fight.
"Give up already Avatar Ren. You are weak," he said.
Ren clenched her fisted, running toward the man. She was going to show him who the weak one was. She tried to cartwheel and shoot flames out of her feet, but she fell on her face. The man laughed at her as Ren tried to pick herself off the ground. Everyone that cared for Ren watched as she struggled to get up. The man threw a large chunk of earth at Ren while she was on the ground, but Hope stood in front of her. Ren looked up to see Hope smash the chunk of earth. Ren smiled at Hope as the armadillo lion helped her off the ground. Ren punched the ground sending a wave toward the man, knocking him on the ground. Ren ran over to him, preparing to attack again. When she was next to him he turned around, sticking a metal spike in her leg. She was about to pull it out when it clamped itself to the inside of her leg. She fell to her knees, and he sent one through her side. She was about to metalbend the sticks out of her when she heard a click. The sticks started to electrocute her. She dropped on her hands, and knees. She started to clench her teeth, and fist as she tried to hang on. She felt the pain from the wound Kanan had caused as well as the pain from the metal sticks.
"I told you that you were weak Avatar Ren," the man said.
"I'm not weak!" Ren yelled as she started to stand.
Everyone stared at her in awe. The man shoved the metal sticks further into Ren's body, but she still continued to stand. Ren used her metalbending, making her own spike. She sent it through his shoulder. She used her airbending to send him away from her before she started to make the strongest lightning bolt she could. The man stood there as he watched Ren continue to use her lightnightbending. She shot the lightning bolt right at the metal spike, making the man fall to the ground. Ren took a deep breath, trying to stand, but she fell to the ground. Hope ran over to her, and she struggled to pull herself up. Hope walked Ren to Kya who was shaking her head.
" You should be in the hospital Ren," Kya said.
" Saved you guys didn't I," Ren said.
Ren slid off of Hope's back, and onto the ground. Sky picked her up, and jumped on Hope's back. He pulled her on her shell, signaling for her to go to the hospital. Ren had needed to learn to listen Sky thought to himself. He finally saw the city, but wondered if Ren was going to even make it. He lifted his hand for a moment, and brushed it against Ren's face. He saw it was tear stained, probably from being in pain. When they got to the hospital the doctors took Ren, and Sky waited for everyone. It had been hours before anyone had arrived at the hospital. He knew they had to collect Kanan's loyalist, and throw Kanan in prison. He was sitting there with a cup of tea, waiting for a doctor to come tell him what Ren's condition was like. The doctor walked out of Ren's room, letting everyone in the room.
Ren's right leg was wrapped as well as her abdomen being completely wrapped. She had a few stiches on her forehead. The rest that could physically be seen were a few scratches, and bruises. Hope licked Ren's face, but she didn't even flinch. Jinora sat in the chair next to Ren's bed, laying her head down. Now all they could do was wait.
One month later
Ren had still not woken up, and that made most people were still trying to keep what little hope they had left. Wu had gone back to Northern Ba Sing Se to see the damages, repair the damages, and check on his people. The world leaders and council had yet another meeting to discuss what they were going to do as a defense for a defense if they had to look for a new avatar. The Beifongs went to repair all the damages that Kanan caused. Iroh had gone with the United forces the help around the Earth Republic. Lin Mako, and Sky had to get back to their police business. Lee told Team Avatar to go help around the Earth Republic. No one really stayed for a whole day anymore. Jinora, her siblings, Kai, Pema, Tenzin, Kya, Bumi and Lee visited every day, but still they only stayed for a few hours. Asami and the Moon children tried making things to send to the Earth Republic.
One day while everyone was gone Ren's eyes started to twitch. She finally opened them, but before she sat up she looked at the wounds she had. She still felt the pain from the fight. She sat up, but couldn't get out of bed herself. Hope walked over to the bed, headbutting her. The armadillo lion stuck her head under Ren's arm, helping Ren out of bed. Ren held on to Hope as she guided her into the hallway. The doctors, and nurses looked at her before they all clapped. Ren had not only saved the world, but she was okay. She saw her family walk through the door, and she smiled. She tried to walk away from Hope, but she stumbled. She fell on the ground, but picked herself right back up. She finally reached them, hugging them as if she would never see them again. Jinora touched her face as tears rolled down her cheek.
"My little girl oh how I am happy to see those green eyes. You have no clue how bad I have missed you. You did something that could have killed you, but you saved a lot of people doing it. Ren a lot of people are alive because of you and I am proud of you. I am proud to call both you and Lee my children," Jinora said.
Ren sat on her bed as the doctors checked her out. She wondered when she could leave to go home to rest. She also wondered how long she had been in the hospital. One of the nurses had brought her something to eat as well as some tea. She looked at the meal in front of her before she grabbed the tea. She looked at it before she placed it back down. Ren sighed, hoping someone would let her leave. She heard two knocks on the door, and looked up. She saw Lin, Mako, Asami, and Sky in the doorway. She tried to run over to Sky, but continued to fall on the ground. After she reached him she hugged him, because she thought he would've needed to visit her in the spirit world. Not long after that the world leaders showed up. She held her chin high with a smile on her face. Ryuu walked over to her, shaking her hand. Tonraq walked over, hugging her tightly. Ren shook her head at Desna, and looked at Ekta. The woman nodded at her with approval.
"Fantastic job Avatar Ren. No one lost their lives, but you did get hurt. You protected my city, and its people. You got the Earth Republic out of Kanan's grip. You restored balance again, and we are very grateful for that. We know how you hate galas, but please let us celebrate all that you have accomplished, and all you have done for everyone," Ekta said.
Ren nodded.
"There she is everyone. The unstoppable Avatar Ren. She didn't restore balance once, not twice, but three times. She drops them left, and..." Bolin said before Ren cut him off.
" Uncle Bo, stop it already. You're kinda embarrassing me," Ren said.
Everyone tried to hide back a laugh. Kuvira and Su walked over, hugging her. Ren looked at everyone in the room, wondering how she had gotten so lucky to have so much support. Ren smiled for a minute thinking for a minute about what Korra had said to her. Ren had to stay in the hospital for a few more days, and she was willing to wait. The day Ren could leave she swung her feet off of the bed. She looked around the room, wondering how things had ended this way. Like her great grandfather she had ended a war. She couldn't believe she had been saving the world for fourteen years now. She walked out of the room with a tear rolling down her check. She made everyone proud. When she walked out of the hospital she was greeted by reporters. Ren saw the bright flashing lights, and heard the reporters throw question after question at her. She saw Lin, Sky, and her grandpa Tenzin push through the press. There was a sigh of relief when Lin, and Sky stood next to her.
"Avatar Ren will answer any questions you have at the gala in two weeks," Tenzin said.
Ren looked at her grandfather with a half smile. She had two weeks to prepare herself to deal with people. The world leader was nothing, but press and citizens was a different story. She walked toward the dock to head home with the three following her. She finally arrived at the docks she looked at the boat. She placed one foot the boat before she hesitated. Everyone looked back at her before she finally continued onto the boat. She walked to the front of the boat, sighing again. She dropped her head a bit before she looked at the statue of her great grandfather. Ren was so lost in her thoughts she never heard Sky walk up behind her. He touched her arm, snapping her out of her own thoughts. Ren looked at him before she looked at Yue Bay again.
"Ren, listen to me. We are all still concerned for you. I thought I lost you. You always get hurt, but this time I was more afraid than I have ever been. Ren, I love you," Sky said.
Ren looked at him for a moment, hugging him before she started to cry. Sky rubbed her back because he knew it had been a long two years for her. For everyone in fact. Ren looked at the scars on her hand before touching her hip. They finally arrived at the island to see everyone waiting for them. Ren looked at them before she pulled Hope with her toward her room. Sky looked at her, and shrugged. Kuvira watched as Ren walked to her room.
For Ren the next two weeks went very slow for Ren. She sat in her room most of the time. Sleeping had become difficult over the last two weeks. In fact, one night last week Jinora and Kai had walked into her room to see her tossing, turning. They heard her mumbling so Kai shook her a bit, and called her name. The night of the gala Ren seemed more like herself. Everyone had wondered if she was ready to go to a gala.
Ren looked at the light blue dress she was wearing. She walked out of her room, and waited in the courtyard for everyone. Asami walked out, and told Ren to turn around. When she did Asami started to pin Ren's hair up. Everyone was soon ready to head to the city for the gala, but Ren had to keep telling Hope she had to stay on the island. When they finally arrived at the city they made their way to the gala. When they arrived the press was in Ren's face instantly. She put her hand over her eyes to block the flashes from the cameras. She used her earthbending to put a wall up between her, and the press. Ekta walked out, telling the press to go into the gala but to leave Ren alone until it was time for questions. Ren peaked her head around the barrier to see Ekta standing there with no press. Ekta gave her a small smile as she gestured for Ren to come inside. Ren walked in the building with everyone, and looked around the room.
There were so many people there. The world leader, representatives from all around the world, the council, friends, family, part of the police force, and the troops. They all started to clap as she stood there. Ren smiled, and looked at Sky. Everyone enjoyed the night when Ekta came up to Ren, and told her it was finally time to talk to the press. Ren walked to the stairs where the world leaders, council, Lin, and Sky stood. Ren stepped in front of the press, and the instantly started asking questions. Ren's head turned from one reporter to another. She didn't even know who to answer first. They were asking so many questions at one time. She then started answering them as fast as she could, but started to stumble over her words.
"We need one question at a time. Avatar Ren can only hear one question at a time. She understands you all have questions, but bombarding her with them will not get them answered any faster," Tenzin said as she stepped forward.
"Avatar Ren, what do you plan on doing with former President Kanan?" A reporter asked.
"I believe that we will be keeping him with Chief Beifong until he has his own special cell built somewhere. We feel he needs to be separated from other criminals. The same is to be said for is son Hong Li," Ren said.
"Avatar Ren, what are your plans for the Earth Republic?" another reporter asked.
"Well we do need a president I suppose. I would like to announce that we are taking nominations for the Earth Republic president. The one requirement is do not do not try to cause chaos," Ren said.
"Avatar Ren, how do you think the war ended?" Someone else asked
.
"I feel it could have ended differently. Kanan's second in command should be in a prison not back to the Earth Republic to be buried. I don't think I should have let my defenses down enough for Kanan to attack me the way he did. Both sides should have never fought like it was agreed upon. The one thing I find to be the most important is the war should have never happened to begin with. Unfortunately, it did, but now we need to learn from it," Ren said.
"Is there anyone you think would make a good president for the Earth Republic? Another reporter asked.
"Yes. Yes, I do. I... I think Kuvira Beifong would make a fantastic president. She has more than proved herself over the last sixteen years. She found me as the avatar, trained me, saved my life, and helped me save the world. She has shown she regrets her pasts. That's all for now," Ren said.
Kuvira walked up to Ren, and gave her a look. Ren was confused until she figured out what it was for. Ren smiled, because she did think Kuvira would make a fantastic president.
"Ren are you insane? No one here other than you thinks I am capable of having any form of power," Kuvira said.
Ren took one look at Kuvira, and smirked. She looked at the podium with the microphones still hooked up. She took a deep breath before she walked away from Kuvira. She walked toward the podium, and just looked ahead. When she reached the podium she looked ahead, and tapped the microphone, taking another deep breath.
"Who here feels that Kuvira Beifong would make a good president? If so please raise your hand," Ren said as she raised her hand.
She looked around the room, watching as people slowly raised their hands. She looked behind her to see the council, world leaders, Lin, and Sky raising their hands. She looked at Kuvira who was looking around the room. Ren saw the expression on her face. Ren smiled at the thought she may have already found the new Earth Republic President, and it was someone she trusted with her life. Sky started to walk up to Ren with his typical smirk, and she shook her head. Kai looked at the two, and sighed. When Sky got to Ren they both smiled. He cleared his throat.
"Can I have everyone's attention please? Avatar Ren, we have saved the world for a long time. We have been through some crazy stuff. I watched you almost die I don't know how many times. Ren, my point is I don't want to lose you, and say I never asked you this question. Ren, will you do me the honor of joining the Beifong family by marrying me?" Sky asked.
Sky pulled out a betrothal necklace. Ren looked at how each element was engraved into the stone. She smiled as she tried to imagine how long it took Sky to make the necklace. She finally snapped out of her thoughts, and looked around at everyone as they waited for her answer. She looked at Kai for a while, then at Sky.
"Yes! Yes!" Ren said as she kissed Sky.
Sky put the necklace around her neck as everyone clapped. Everting was going right. The war had ended. She was engaged to Sky Beifong. Cities were okay. People were safe. She had her friends and family. Finally, as the avatar one of the most important things is that balance is currently being kept.
(Author's Note: So I'm sorry that it took so long to update. I went back to school, got engaged, so everything kinda got crazy. So there will be a book 4. You will know how the story continues. You'll know Ren's next threat, if Kuvira does become president, and where the future takes Sky and Ren. Thanks for hanging in there with me and I hope you keep reading.)