Chapter 2: Malevolence Strikes, Aang Falls.
It was already past sundown and the moon was full, the stars where bright. On a night such as this when all around seemed calm, serene, and peaceful the group of friends could not help but forget their troubles and enjoy the ride through the sky, look up, and talk of better things.
"So I heard about what happened with Mai from Suki, how are you doing?" Sokka asked as he and Zuko sat at the back of Appa's saddle while Katara and Aang sat at the reigns and out of sight of Sokka so they would not need to hear about any oogies.
For a rare moment Zuko smiled, a warm genuine one "we umm, actually we're together again. After we got back from our last adventure I went and saw her and said I don't need my father anymore and I was at peace with who I am. She threw some knives at me at first but we're better now"
"Wait did she throw them before or after you explained?" Sokka asked a little taken back by the dynamics of Zuko and Mai's relationship.
Zuko seemed to get embarrassed "well kinda both really, but she wasn't trying to hit me, I think"
They two oldest of the group then laughed. Talk then turned to proposed ideas for friendly contests of skill between Fire Nation and water tribe, as a way of helping to further mend old scars Zuko even offered to open trade like there had been in the days of Avatar Roku.
Sokka considered these and thought that perhaps the time had come for the sight of black snow to not be a bad thing anymore. He was clearly being groomed by his Father to become a leader if not Chief of the southern tribe one day, as such he felt it was his responsibility now to ensure an honest friendship that would last between the two countries.
Aang and Katara meanwhile where nestled in each other's arms, lying back on Appa's head while they enjoyed the calm night.
After the mention of possible sprit troubles Aang was of course concerned but Zuko assured him that Iroh was keeping in close contact with the fire nation and the earth King Kuei as so far it was these two nations that were having the most of these odd disappearances and comatose victims. Iroh originally suspected dissidents from either side trying to kick up old hostilities but the circumstances around these disappearances were too odd. In the meantime he would also contact the Northern water tribe as well as the people Aang had dubbed the Air Acolytes who had begun to travel to each of the four air temples in the hopes of restoring them.
At first he was unsure what to make of them but soon realized that the Air Nomads never believed their customs were theirs alone as. If one sought enlightenment one had to be given the chance was something he'd not heard in a long time so he told them to seek out the temples and pursue their spiritual quests. It was also a fact that the world Aang knew before the war had gone through so much change. It was time to forget some illusions of harmony by separate nations and to share his people's teaching with those who wanted to be part of his culture.
His thoughts were interrupted by a soft kiss on his cheek "are you worried about what Iroh told you and Zuko?" she asked
"A little, but until we know more I can't let myself worry more then I should, besides for now we have to look forward to a party at the south pole. Maybe we can go penguin sledding again"
Katara laughed "That's just like you past 16 and you still thinking of riding animals. Are you ready to tell everyone our news?" She asked blushing.
Aang smiled happily "of course, should we start with your dad? I know in the Southern tribe they don't practice arranged marriages anymore but I think the best first step is getting his blessing" He said, the Air nomads themselves did in fact marry and have families, love and peace were part of their teachings, but respect was also a key element in the belief of sharing your life with another.
Chief Hakoda had in fact been aware of their relationship for some time, likely since he'd first see how his daughter and Aang looked at each other. He was nothing but happy for them. It did not matter that Aang had saved the world numerous times, or that he was the Avatar. He made Katara happy and was a kind, honest, soul which had earned the proud father's respect.
Katara considered his words "You're right, he'll approve but we better start with him, Sokka and Gran-Gran. You know in a way Aang we've been engaged for a while now" she said with a humour filled grin.
Aang blinked a couple times in confusion then just blushed as Katara always could do that "we have? How?" He asked
"You remember when saved us after Zuko and that bounty hunter June captured us and you got my mom's necklace back? Well you gave it to me and in the water tribe when a boy gives a girl a necklace like that it means he's proposing." She explained with a laugh.
Aang soon joined in "hey your right, I guess if you look at it that way we have been engaged for a while"
They lay together quietly for a while then Katara had to ask "so after what are we going to do? Travel around a lot, stay in one place?" She asked
Aang thought about it a moment "well Zuko and I have been talking a lot about our plans to build a city where Yu Dao is a place that is not to any one nation but to them all. A fifth nation almost some place that one day can be a land of peace and unity to all the people. It's very likely there still will be problems we have to face all over the world we never seem to run out of those" He said with a chuckle.
"Your right about that, you remember that time in the great divide and those two warring clans?" She asked as they descended into old memories of their first adventure together.
On the winds it followed them, It could not be seen so easily and not be heard as it was, but it could follow them as they travelled south across the water. It sensed their strong energy, their powerful spirits. Yet one in particular was the one it sought, but fortune favoured it as it realized that the other one whom caused it anger and rage still was in its path as well. Soon it would be strong enough. It would rejoin with the others and then have its revenge.
For now it followed them
"Hey we're here!" Katara shouted as they sun was at its highest and shining of the walls of ice that now stood proud, and tall as the new village of the Southern water tribe came into view.
They had made camp during the last night and then set out after daybreak and soon enough reached the South Pole.
They also witnessed the glory of the labours of the Waterbender's whom now had settled in the South Pole to strengthen their sister tribe. The village still held its own customary look of snow huts but now they had stronger ice walls and a proud front gate for boats to enter much like the one at the northern water tribe with the Crest of the ocean and moon spirits proudly etched into it. In terms of size the village must have been more than four or five times larger and from this distance was teeming with activity.
The group all exchanged happy glances as Appa reached the edge of the wall and the sounds of cheers and happy calling was coming from below them.
"I can't wait to see Dad, Gran-Gran, and how everyone else is doing in the new southern water tribe village" Katara said excitedly.
Aang guided Appa down and he slowly circled about in a spiral motion till it was clear there was a spot meant for him. It looked like a large stable had been constructed and there was a massive bay that would fit him comfortably.
Appa let out a happy grunt as he touched down, the others descended from his saddle as a crowded of people were already making their way to them. Leading the group was Chief Hakoda; on his right was Gran-Gran and his left Bato.
"Dad!" Katara and Sokka both shouted with excitement as they ran ahead to embrace him warmly. Since Zuko had needed their help they had been away for some months when the true rebuilding of the village had started.
Zuko meanwhile held back feeling a bit nervous he had not been back to either of the water tribes since the times he'd been an enemy, although he and Hakoda had met before it was still likely not a simple thing for he, the fire lord, to just waltz in.
Aang patted him on the shoulder "Don't worry your fieriness, this will be a fun time" he said ever the optimist.
Zuko could not help but smile at his friends morale support as he and Aang walk forward towards the gathered crowd. As Appa had landed they had both put on some extra layers, Zuko's were much like the outfit he'd worn when sneaking into the northern water tribe but now bearing the colours of his people. Aang wore a traditional water tribe coat, albeit it did not have the fur lining which Katara had requested specially for him knowing his aversion to fur. Normally he would have worn his first style of Air nomad robes which kept him comfortable even in the south pole but since he'd begun to wear the more open style with his right arm completely exposed he realized a nice coat would be a wise idea.
Hakoda was at first happily chatting with his son and daughter but then after a nudge from Bato he had to put his priorities in order "Alright you two it's time I greet our honoured guests" He said in a warm tone.
Katara and Sokka nodded in understanding, Sokka went and stood by his father's side. Katara meanwhile went to Aang and took his hand as they watched to see how Zuko would do.
Zuko proudly walked before the Chief and then placed his hands together in salute then bowed "Chief Hakoda of the water tribe. I am honoured to be in your presence once again, thank you for inviting me to your celebration-"the remainder of his greeting was cut off by Hakoda putting his hands on the younger man's shoulders.
"It is good to see you again Zuko, you don't have to worry about formal pleasantries son, and you're among friends here. I've told everyone about our first meeting at the boiling rock. You are always welcome here Fire Lord" He said his words at first warm and familiar but the last he added with respect as one leader to another. Hakoda was an honourable and honest man, he gotten to know Zuko fairly well ever since he and his son rescued him from prison and he saw Zuko and he were similar. His fatherly instincts also gave him a fair insight into the young man's difficult past so he knew being the first to offer a warm greeting would save much internal struggle on politics and proper behaviour. This was a time for happiness and celebration.
It seem that the wise chief's insight proved right as he could see the relief in the young leader's eyes as he smiles and nodded "Thank you" he said humbly then stepped aside as the next greeting had to take place.
Hakoda, Bato, Gran-Gran, and all the others then bowed respectfully "Welcome back to the South Pole, Avatar Aang" Hakoda said in a warm and fatherly tone.
Aang nodded and returned the bow "Thank you Chief Hakoda, it's good to see the village again"
"Alright that's enough formality for now it's time we all had some fun" Gran-Gran said suddenly, this brought about laughter from the crowd as everyone turned and headed into the village, Appa following suit as the streets were wide enough for him.
"How are things going up at Yu Dao?" Hakoda asked Zuko as they walked side by side.
"Thankfully things have progressed much smoother then could have expected my Uncle has also been very helpful with my duties as Fire Lord" he replied.
Hakoda nodded "yes Iroh always struck me as a wise man, not to mention a damn fine Pai Sho player. Not to mention his creation of Tea Appreciation day certain has merit" he said with a chuckle.
Talk between the two leaders then turned to pleasant subjects such as what Sokka and Zuko had spoken of earlier such as opening trade between the two cultures. After a short walk they reached the village square which was being worked on by water benders to prepare for a feast later that night.
Hakoda turned to the group and smiled "you kids likely want to get some rest after the long trip, please make yourselves at home and I'll see you later tonight" he said
"Actually Dad could Aang and I talk to you for a sec?" Katara asked leading Aang and her father towards his own hut.
Zuko and Sokka shared a curious look "what do you think that was about?" Zuko asked
"Beats me long as they keep their oogieness down to a minimum I'm happy" Sokka replied shrugging as he and Zuko walked about the square.
"You know Sokka you better get used to that Aang and Katara are a couple after all and I don't see that changing" Zuko said familiar with the ongoing humour that was the 'oogies' Sokka would bring up.
Sokka just shook his head comically "Yeah I know that but seriously they just overdue it sometimes"
Zuko refrained from mentioning the few occasions in which he stumbled into Suki and Sokka being romantic, or attempting to, that resulting in his own 'oogies'. Together the two warriors walked about Sokka would introduce people of the village and Zuko would show respect and kindness. He noticed that the children of the village were quickest to warm up to him. They would ask him to make fire and he would give a little show, sometimes near an ice pillar or such to make some lights dance about.
As they rounded a corner they came to a head table that would be where they would sit at tonight for the feast. Here Bato and Gran-Gran were discussing how to position all the tables. Bato and Zuko greeted each other with a handshake in respect. Then he turned to Gran-Gran and dropped to one knee
"Wise Elder, I humbly as for your forgiveness for my past mistakes, when I attacked your village" He said as he recalled how he had threatened her and her family with such coldness.
Gran-Gran was momentarily taken aback by the young fire lord's sudden request but she just patted his head "I have lived many years and I know when a man truly is sincere in his desire to change and become better for the sake of himself and others. I accept your apology but please just call me Gran-Gran" she said with a chuckle.
Sokka and Bato were surprised by Gran-Gran's up beat attitude she displayed but Bato later whispered to him how her marriage to Pakku had brought about many old happy feelings and they were happy their union came at the time which the future no longer seemed hopeless.
Zuko finally stood up and nodded with a smile "thank you Gran-Gran"
Sokka and Bato both laughed, there was something funny in the way Zuko said Gran-Gran with his serious tone of voice that was so funny.
They all then decided to take a walk about the village as Zuko was eager to learn what he could about their culture and lifestyle.
Meanwhile in Chief Hakoda's hut. He smiled as he followed his daughter and her boyfriend inside. Something told him there was some good news he was about to hear.
As they entered Katara could not help but squeeze Aang's hand both in her excitement at telling her dad the good news and also for seeing the familiar sight of her childhood home. While the hut was bigger in size now it looked exactly the same on the inside. The pelts and rug laid out, the fire pit in the center of the main room.
"Here let me get a fire going first" Hakoda offered as he realized the hut had been empty for most of the day and it was a bit chilly inside.
"Allow me" Aang said happily as he said wood was laid in the pit already. He took a stance then twisted throwing the hand he had bent to his waist outward, palm open and a small burst of fire shot out and into the pit igniting the wood.
"Impressive, your technique has improved greatly" Hakoda said nodding in approval.
Katara meanwhile walked to the pantry stores as she felt a quick snack and something to drink would be a good idea "That's my Aang, a true master" she said with an ear to ear grin.
This brought about a blush as he and Hakoda sat down by the fire that was already at full size and making the room much more comfortable.
"So tell me Aang, how are things going with the Air Acolytes and the temples?"
"Pretty good, Theo and his father have been a big help offering some of their balloons to help the acolytes reach the temples. So far they are just working on restoring them so others can live and visit them" Aang said proudly.
Hakoda nodded "that's great to hear. The Air Nomads culture is something the world has gone to long without and it will be good so see the temples one day. After seeing the western one I look forward to seeing all the others when they are ready"
Just then Katara returned and set a pot over the pit, it was filled with a water tribe classic, five flavour soup, along with stewed sea prunes. She also set down a mug of fresh water for each of them.
Aang suddenly gave a very fearful look at the prunes and Hakoda smiled "glad to see someone else that won't poke fun at me for my own lack of appreciation for stewed sea prunes" he said laughing
Aang breathed a sigh of relief "Here I thought I was the only one"
Katara rolled her eyes at the two then settled down next to Aang on the fur pelt, leaning on him.
Hakoda's eyes filled with warmth at the sight "so tell me you two, is this news you have for me something to do with your future plans?" He asked
Katara and Aang were not surprised he was quick to guess.
Aang went first "Yes sir, in fact the reason we wanted to talk to you is I wish to marry Katara and we wanted to get your blessing" he said.
Although he had guessed it was still a moment where any father needs a moment of silence, especially a proud one, then his eyes watered, he stood, walked around the fire, and put his hand on Aang's shoulder.
"I could think of no one better for my daughter and to call my Son in-law. You two have my blessing and I know Kya would be overjoyed as well" He said.
Katara also felt tears of joy welling up as she touched her mother's necklace then turned Aang to her to kiss him.
After a moment they all settled back down and talk turned to future plans, be it of family, the work in the fire nation colonies, and other pleasant topics. For a short while Aang even forgot about the worrying reports of possible spirit trouble.
It landed only about an hour after they had, from above it saw where they separated and knew it would have to wait to strike. Landing onside the village walls it felt nothing as it was not completely in this world. Soon it found a lone guard at watch and waited till the man's back was turned. This would make a perfect disguise and he was a Waterbender.
When the moment was right it pounced, striking the man on the back of his head so he would fall from the wall. He was knocked out and then it wrapped itself around his form then a dull glow shine from its somewhat see through body and soon it took on the appearance of the guard, having also leeched his energy he would make use of the guards Waterbending skills later on, and thanks to his other parts out there he soon rejoin and be able to do more.
Night came quickly and soon enough, the people were gathering for the feast. It was going to be a good one, given the guests present and the news of the changes going on for the former fire nation colonies.
Zuko sat down next to Aang, who was seated by Katara on the left side of Chief Hakoda. On the Chief's right was Sokka, Bato, and Gran-Gran.
Zuko could not help but notice the glow coming from Aang and Katara, true when together the two always had a happy air about them but this time it was more radiant "what's got you two in such a good mood?" He asked curious.
Aang just smiled "you'll know soon enough"
Chief Hakoda then stood "Everyone please join me in welcoming our honoured guests to this celebration Avatar Aang, and Fire Lord Zuko. These two brave men have come to us with glad tidings of peace and friendship and news of their plans to create a land of unity for all the nations in the former fire nation's colonies. We also celebrate the hard labours of the combined efforts of our brothers and sisters from the northern water tribe in rebuilding out proud village" He said speaking loud and clear and with pride in his voice.
Everyone gathered clapped, some cheered and Sokka lead a few in some whistling.
Suddenly Aang felt a chill wash over his body, not in the physical sense, more his spirit. He knew something was wrong and it was approaching them. His worry showed in his face as Zuko and Katara looked at him
"Sweetie what's wrong?" Katara asked knowing him well enough that something was up.
"I don't know I feel something, it's anger, malice, and it's close and moving closer" He said there was fear in his voice at something so unfamiliar and evil.
Zuko was immediately on alert; the calm warrior was quickly scanning around. He thought back to those strange reports. If Aang sensed something this was a spirit related problem and that meant he should look for someone out of place and expect benders to be a target.
"I have one final announcement to make" Chief Hakoda continued as Katara didn't get his attention right away "This one I make as a proud father" He said as the crowd was focused on him.
Zuko meanwhile was looking around intently then he spotted something, or rather someone, a guard from the wall. He vaguely recalled the man's face but he was missing his spear or any other weapons and still in his tribal armour. Something else was off
His eyes, they were not the eyes of a human.
The guard raised his arms in a familiar stance.
"WATCH OUT" Zuko shouted as he saw the attack coming, ice spears.
Before anyone reacted to his shouted he swung his arms up and created a wall of fire in front of their table but the spears were coming so fast two of them made it through while the rest melted. One spear struck Zuko's left shoulder and sent him flying with a painful cry. The other had hit Hakoda but he managed to turn so it struck his tough hide shoulder plates.
Zuko went flying into a snow hut behind him.
"Zuko!" Aang and Katara shouted as the fire wall dispersed and they hear the sound of churning water above.
Looking up the crowd gasped as another rain of sharp ice pellets was headed for them.
Aang and Katara acted instantly. Aang put his hands together and formed a sphere or air to deflect most of the pellets. Any that got through Katara turned back to water to rain harmlessly on them. Sokka meanwhile drew his boomerang and his favoured club as he knew the attacker was nearby.
"Dad you alright?" Sokka asked
Hakoda grunted, while the spear had been partially melted it still hit him like a hammer and his shoulder was dislocated "I'm fine but where did that attack come from"
Bato and Gran-Gran immediately began to direct the crowd to remain clam.
Aang meanwhile was scanning the faces. Zuko had spotted someone and now he was doing the same. Then he locked eyes with a guard who had his armour but no weapons, and he saw the eyes. Eyes filled with anger, hate, malice, but the eyes were black with red pupils, almost glowing red. In that instant he felt a surge of fear, this was no ordinary spirit but something different.
Realizing he'd been caught the guard leaped over the crowd with an angry cry "AVATAR!" as he spun his arms and summoned war from jars to attack from above, his charge was not that of a Waterbender.
Aang and Katara again combined. Given the moon was full and they were surrounded by water, snow and ice. That made Waterbending an ideal choice. They sent a massive stream up to knock the attacker away as they needed to see to it the villagers were safe. It worked and the screaming attacker was sent flying.
"Katara, check on Zuko" Aang said as he summoned his air scooter, having left his staff in the saddle at the stables he would have to do without it. His concern for his friend evident but he had to keep the attacker occupied and find out what he was dealing with.
Katara nodded "Alright we'll be right behind you sweetie, be careful!" she called as he took of
Sokka meanwhile was helping Bato, Hakoda and Gran-Gran direct the villagers to the largest huts meant for gathering asking the Waterbender's to guard them while they dealt with the attacker.
Katara ran to the destroyed hut "Zuko? Zuko?" She called out for him then spotted him partially covered by snow. Waving her arms she parted the snow off him then saw he wasn't wounded as the ice spear had only just knocked him back and out cold.
"Zuko, wake up Aang needs our help" she said shaking him awake
At first he did not respond then he groaned and his eyes opened "Katara? What's happened?" he said still groggy.
"You got knocked out by whomever that was, Aang pushed him away but I'm worried that guard isn't water tribe and he's fighting Aang" she explained trying to keep calm when this fearful feeling was mounting.
Zuko quickly regained his sense and fortunately despite being a bit tender he pushed the blow he took aside and followed her out.
Aang meanwhile had managed to push the attacker to the top of the wall and was now trading blows. He was now mixing his styles. Some water attacks he would block with water or fire then retaliate with fire and air. He had no earth to bend but it was still three elements against one. However he was very confused whoever this was he was attacked direct and aggressively.
"Who are you? Why did you attack me? How come you look like a water tribe guard?" He asked between traded blows as he could tell whoever this was they were skilled at bending but again something was off, Almost as if water was not the element he was used to using.
The voice that came out of the guard's mouth was a bit hollow sounding, like it was coming from inside a shell.
"I am your doom Avatar. I will have my revenge and take your power" it responded as suddenly it leapt forward towards Aang.
Aang swung his arm and send a blast of air to knock him back but the attacker dodge and kept coming, he then launched a fire blast but rather than dodge the man just took it head on no attempt to use water or anything else to lessen then damage. What shocked Aang was the lack of care for the burns he had just sustained,
"Who are you?" Aang asked as he turned a section of the wall from ice to water forming two large water whips on his arms.
It was then the attack just seemed to stop "someone you killed….back for revenge!" It shouted and there was something in those dark eyes that told Aang the truth.
Aang lost his focus, and then the guard had him by the throat and his arm
"Now to drain your spirit" the guard said and its eyes began to glow.
Aang sensed the danger and began to go into the avatar state but something was wrong. He was getting weaker and his body going numb.
"There they are" Zuko said as he and Katara ran along the streets to the wall where they had spotted the bright lights that were Aang's fire attacks.
As they got closer they saw the guard get a hold of Aang and how Aang was going limp.
"Aang!" Katara shouted in fear as she could tell what was happened. Waving her arms she summoned water from all around them, and created a wave for her and Zuko to ascend freezing a small circle under them to act as a platform. Zuko began to jab with his fingers pointed out firing tiny precise blasts of fire to hit the guard.
"Let him go!" Zuko shouted trying to keep his focus and anger under control.
The strikes hit home and the guard feel away as one struck his eye, making the glow fade from them, he dropped Aang who was out cold.
Katara and Zuko reached the top and while she ran to Aang to see if he was ok Zuko turned and faced the attacker taking a ready stance "what did you do to him?" Zuko demanded.
Instead the attacked just laughed and Zuko and Katara noticed what Aang had earlier of his voice
"Ah prince Zuko, sorry but I don't have time to kill you today" he replied.
Zuko and Katara could do nothing but watch as the guard's body seemed to dissolve and what stood there was a shadow that had the shape of a human and seemed to be a body of shadows themselves with glowing eyes.
"I'll be going now" it said as it rose high.
Zuko suddenly changed his stance and began to weave his first two fingers of each hand in a circular motion. Energy began to crackle and buzz. Katara knew this feeling and watched wide eyed cradling Aang in her arms.
"Now you're not" Zuko said quietly as he shot his lighting at the spirit that was rapidly rising but the attack missed when the spirit suddenly waved its arm and sent a blast of air.
Then it was gone from sight vanishing into the night
Zuko was speechless. That spirit had used Airbending.
"Aang wake up, please wake up!" Katara said behind him.
Turning he saw Aang was out cold, there was a very faint glow from his arrow, and he was barely breathing. This was similar to how he looked when went to the spirit world but it was clear something was wrong.
Rushing to them Zuko kneelt by his friend "Aang?" he called out.
Katara was beginning to cry in both fear and frustration. She quickly summoned water from her pouch and collected it around her hands. Despite him not showing any wounds she had to try but her efforts did nothing.
On the street below they heard Sokka shouting to them as he rushed with others behind.
Zuko meanwhile looked up into the sky "that thing knew us" he said
Katara meanwhile was trying to keep her tears in check.
"Aang" she called out to him but he remained out cold.
To be continued….
A/N: Phew, seems my writing juices are really going. Chapter 2 down already, as to how many chapters this story is gonna be I am not sure. I have the overall goal in mind but how long I take to get there is undecided. Anyway….our enemy makes his biggest move he's knocked Aang out of the game and what's more did he take Aang's power or just copied it and now can Airbend. Who is he? Where is he going? and how will Katara and the others get Aang back to them. Enjoy and please R&R. Stay tuned!