"So, he did it again, just like last time." Cowherd checked the pulse of a dead cult member. Nothing, the blood stopped coursing a while ago, and there are countless earth pellets shot into this deceased body. Judging by the placements, the assassin was precise and accurate with each target.

"It's as if every time that man treated us like cleaners," Zhu Di voiced carefully. He treaded carefully cross this underground compound, avoid stepping on the dead cultists. Years of service in this field have made his senses numb to such horrific sights. But still, he wishes life could have been different.

It seems that the Acolytes of San Bao was holding some sort of ceremony here. Based on given intelligence and past accounts, these cultish men and women always have some sort of induction for certain members of their group. Those who are born 'pure' are inaugurated as a prominent warrior to their master. So far, they don't hold all the information on this cult. But the most recognizable trait is their fanatical, and almost obsessive devotion to the concept of bending purity. He heard that those who subscribe to their ideology would only allow children with same bending parents to be born. Water with water, fire with fire. They believe that intermixing between the elements should be forbidden. He theorizes that the cult has some sort of hierarchy, a caste system where the 'purer' the bender is born, the higher they should rank in society. Those at the very top are those so called 'pure warriors', and superior to that are priests who resides over an area like a giant city. At the very bottom of this would be the non-benders and those who mix their bloodlines in any association. In his mind, mobility between their illusional hierarchy cannot exist in life.

"Don't feel bad, these dregs of society would have done much worst if they are in control." Cowherd used his rocky foot to kick a dead cultist off a wooden chair. "What did these fools espouse? Compassion? Frugality? Or was it Humility? None. All they ever cared about is how to wipe out those who are not them. They would not hesitate to murder a family if people like us are not here." He booted another cultist, the shoes made of earth stomped hard on the stomach, checking if any of these radical degenerates are faking their deaths.

Looking at his colleague's excessiveness to the already dead disturbs Zhu Di, as he believes that the mental deterioration of his brothers must not be taken lightly. Each one of them are trained from a very young age. Slowly, they are conditioned into tools for surveillance, servitude to the state structure and eventually nothing more but husks. Deep down, he questions if Cowherd is still a normal human. But then again, he isn't sure if himself can be considered 'normal' in the eyes of everyday people. Maybe it's all just good acting when visiting the Jasmine Dragon, blending in with the masses by repeating their beloved poetry and storytelling.

Regardless, he cannot disagree with Cowherd's view that the Acolytes of San Bao is a dangerous organization. Because there is a small active community of Northern Water Tribe migrants in this city, intermarry between locals and their Northern neighbors are not uncommon. It's people like them that are prime targets to the violent cult. Anyone on the streets who have seen a family like that will try to stalk on their homes, even if unprovoked. There has been one documented instance in the Lower Ring about a case involving a family with water-bending father and an earth-bending mother. A normal family with two cultural backgrounds, no criminal record, and their neighbors describe them as a 'friendly duo'. Despite have no feud with anyone, those two parents along with the children are murdered in cold blood.

It was many years ago. Fearing that such an event would cause instability in the Lower Ring, their director forbade anyone to discuss this horrific incident in public.

But Zhu Di remember freshly how the deluded preparators, in all their smugness and deviancy, even paraded the heads of the family on the streets, much to the horrors of literally everyone else. Of course, those criminals were immediately apprehended. Even during the courthouse trials, they still believe the crime was actually a righteous cause, with the excuse of saving bending itself from further pollution.

Poor fools, Zhu Di thought to himself. It's very difficult to feel any pity towards the like of them.

Judge Bao was swift to the punishments. At the end, the acolytes were put on an airship, sent to the Si Wong desert where the Warden of the Earth Empire remanent reside. Those given to the Warden herself will never be seen. Did that woman kill the acolytes? Unlikely, she never accepts murderers, only those who have committed crimes serious enough to warrant lifetime imprisonment. As for the Acolytes who are directly involved in killing that family, their fate is obvious. All the citizens of Ba Sing Se cheered when the heads of the murders rolled across the courthouse's floor. Zhu Di lament about this.

But deep down, even someone like him does not feel satisfied. And it is also his struggle with morality that disturbs him. For it is the common belief in their organization, and the tenant of the philosophy Fajia, that humans are by nature selfish and evil. He has witnessed the cruelty of Acolytes have committed against the family. However, he is not oblivious to his own dark intentions, wishing to see those murderers be subjected to even more suffering, thinking it may compensate for the trauma of everyone else. In his deepest and most hideous desires, death would be a mercy to the bloodthirsty murders. His former self would absolutely be cruel on the punishments, preferring to prolong the suffering instead of a swift execution. Even now, he can still think of a hundred of ways on how to inflict suffering on the worst of the acolytes.

He inhaled deeply, reminding himself that the past is behind him. If he again steps on that path, he would be no different to the one who have just wiped out this den of cultists.

"Wasn't that woman who corrupted you also water bender?" Cowherd said, addressing his partner using the given alias. In their own world, even a cowherder can be considered more valuable than an emperor fell from grace. The toxic competitive nature in imbued within each of them. "Some nobody from the swamps, strange taste you have."

Zhu Di wavered. "What does she have to do with what we are investigating now?"

"It doesn't?" Cowherd questioned sarcastically. "You know the rules, yet still broke them. To make it worst, you allow useless affection to hinder your duty, resulting in the disgrace of who you are today. Besides, of all the elegant ladies in this city, you chose a frog from barbaric lands. And now what did you have?"

Zhu Di cannot refute such mentality, not because his friend is right, for deep down he himself understand that such worldview is false and based on prejudice. Arguing with cowherd would result in nothing. It is no secret that certain aspects of Ba Sing Se often belittle their fellow countrymen living in other parts of the now war-torn nation, always has been. Because the capital city's Upper Ring enjoyed an opulent lifestyle for generations, they have taken granted of all the wealth, most extracted from various provinces. Therefore, many have unfortunately developed a sense of superiority over people who are supposed to be their own kin. Then again, the Earth Kingdom has always been difficult at forging a unified identity.

"It definitely would not be wise to openly discuss this in a den of wolves, would it?" Zhu Di advised. He hopes his colleague can realize that a false sense of safety would be fatal. Any second from now, someone could ambush them through the walls or door. They can never be too careful. He instinctively smooths his hand across the facial scar, reminding him of his own past failure.

"A den of dead wolves," Cowherder reminded. "Clearly, you should be grateful that your interactions with that water bender have been a closely guarded information. The director himself spared no effort to contain such disgrace of yours."

Zhu Di didn't retaliate. While he does not agree with his colleague's critic, it is still pragmatic to withhold their person life from the enemy. A strong boundary between their everyday existence and their true self must be maintained to avoid exploitation from the cultists.

He slowly made himself to some sort of dais, supposedly where the 'pure bender' was going to be ordained by a sort of priest or shaman. He does not know specifically what titles they have to their local sect leaders but knew the head of the snake was supposed to appear at this very location. As to why they didn't show up is beyond Zhu Di's understanding. What they do know only one member is spared, a teenager boy.

"Hey, look at this," Cowherd called out from the room's corner. Zhu Di hurried over, lifting his dark green robe to not stain it with blood. Once he arrived, the sight of a particular dead cultist drew special attention. The man is dressed in a sort of ceremonial robe. Could he be the local sect leader?

"Well, look at that, it seems that he is finally been caught," Cowherd can't help but chuckle a little. In the process, he almost dropped that single piece of wheat straw in his mouth.

"Caught?" Zhu Di incredulously looked at Cowherd. "Does this man looked like he was caught to you? Our orders from above are to capture!"

Hearing this, Cowherd finally realized his slight mistake. Upon further examination, they discovered of all the dead cultists in this underground compound, there is an excessive number of pellets shot into this particular man. They knew the agent who have been here first are not some ordinary minions, despite the unprecedented autonomy, granted, he will never disobey orders from above.

"I want to take this man as evidence, is your beast of labor ready?" Zhu Di asked his friend. Despite working together for a while, he is still unsure what is the name of the creature that always appear with cowherd. What he does know is that animal serves both to complement Cowherd's disguise and occasionally help to carry heavy objects, or person.

Cowherder sneered. "You are quite talkative." He left the space through the entrance and came back with a sack. Without any shred of respect, he used a pair of rough hands and shoved the dead cultists into it, much to Zhu Di's protest.

"Disrespecting the dead is a morale transgression," Zhu Di warned. As expected, he was not taken seriously.

"We are not those stubborn moralists," Cowherd spatted. "Don't forget, who was it that sullied himself with a swamp hag?"

Zhu Di endured. Every day, he must live with his past, a time where certain decisions have led him to fell from grace in the eye of their director. Right now, anyone can just whip out his long gone legacy like a bloody blade just preparing to soak it more with crimson.

...

Xuan Zang entered his office, supporting himself with the staff. The old air-bender slowly made it to a chair behind an aging wooden desk and rested his body on it. The monk sighed, relieving the stress as if he spent one thousand years accumulating it. This year's Keju ceremony have been rather eventful, he thought to himself.

Ximen Qing was unfortunately given the third place on the examination, two earth-bending generals almost leveled the whole palace, Te Laoye disrupted the proceedings, and then Shan demanded to have his essay be displayed all around the city and challenges anyone to improve his work. The old monk is just grateful that they weathered the storm, but they can't rest yet, they must plan for what might come next.

All the other senior professors and Ru scholars slowly filed into the room. Shi Shen had difficulty walking and is supported by his Water Tribe colleague. Today has certainly been too much for the astrologist. If Xuan Zang focused his eyes, he can barely notice a few extra white hairs hanging from his friend's queue ponytail. Pretty sure those were not there yesterday.

"Well, my fellow colleagues, we have done well today." Xuan Zang stated with a brightened-up expression, attempting to induce optimism back into the room. But it was met with groans and tired sighs. The Keju ceremony was a borderline disaster with its reception. Hopefully what happened today will not affect the future in anyway terrible way possible. They already have a lot of headaches with Ximen Qing's results, many will certainly criticize them for allowing that young scoundrel to enter the exam.

"The word well is perhaps subjective to you, Master Xuan Zang," Shi Shen muttered as he slumped onto a wooden couch. The astrologist would be the most mentally drained one. Understandably, the violation of so much traditional values today has been too much for the middle-aged scholar. Almost all educated men and women are essentially promoters of Rujia, the ideology which promotes social harmony and conservative family values. What happened today is not what this staunch figure have anticipated. He sighed. "Which one should we be more worried? Shan, or Ximen Qing? If the Great Earth Sage himself is standing in this room right now, he would berate us, shame us and maybe even excommunicated us for today's circus show!"

This revered figure mentioned by Shi Shen is known as the great scholar who first developed the belief known as Rujia, all the analects are said to have originated from this venerable figure.

Social harmony, family values and good societal conducts marked with a strong sense of tradition is what all Earth Sages are meant to promote. But unfortunately, this year's top three graduates have two individuals, two deviants, that poses a threat to the harmony. One is a promiscuous spoiled son of an Earth Kingdom admiral. More worryingly, the other is likely a scholar infatuated with the opposing philosophy known as Fajia, the belief in strict laws and toxic legalism. Both of them might become government officials in the not-too-distant future, which is why it is most concerning for all the professors in this room. If Ba Sing Se were to experience any sort of destruction at the hands of two corrupt and tyrannical bureaucrats, then aren't all of them just as responsible?

Many may question, how could Xuan Zang and these leading figures of the university allow this risk to incur? Why did they allow it to happen?

The Keju's most advertised quality is about fairness and equality. The minimal prerequisite to participate in this exam is education. No matter how big or small, nobles and peasants, locals and even foreigners across the ocean, all have the chance to graduate from this rigorous civil service exam and earn an official position in Ba Sing Se's top administrations. Even if they are not seeking to get a job as a bureaucrat, conquering this examination also brings honor and prestige to both the individual and their family. The values preached is meritocratic in nature only. Even the lowliest peasant can pass the exam and become a high ranking official. To ensure there is no favoritism amongst the reviewers, the names of the exam participants are hidden until the final results. Which is why Ximen Qing and Shan's ranking amongst the top three positions gave them all a great shock. Legally, they cannot deny these two young men their reward, otherwise, it would go against the fair nature of those entire civil service exam.

"This is just like that moment many years ago, when we were all younger." Shi Shen said as he poured some ginseng tea in the cup. "Wasn't there another young scholar who also became a Zhuangyuan by using legalism as his essay topic?"

Xuan Zang wrapped his memories for this vague and unclear part of their history. Indeed, there was another young scholar who used Fajia to pass the exam. Those who use this tyrannical ideological as their writing material are so rare, scholars like those are essentially non-existent. This is because Fajia is an extremely controversial ideology, one that believe humans are naturally selfish and that strict laws and heavy punishments are needed to achieve true peace. Legalist scholars are also frowned upon, whereas scholars who endorsed Rujia is empowered and supported by pretty much the entire Earth Kingdom. The latter is after-all a very conservative belief merged with traditional moral values, which is why the mere presence of Fajia scholars can create quite the stir in society.

"That young scholar many years ago..." Xuan Zang pondered deeply. His memories are very foggy, some parts felt missing, and others are randomly there when he was sure they were just imaginations. He felt confused, questioning which part of the history in his recollections are true or fabricated. It all felt...complicated and incomplete, almost intentionally so. He couldn't even remember who the young Fajia scholar's name, or if that man has taken the exam before or after Harmonic Convergence. But the old monk is certain that the previous legalist scholar before Shan is known to stutter when talking. Despite unable to participate in verbal debates, that man was known to write an excellent eight-legged essay that impressed the Keju judges. The examiners back then were staunch supporters of Rujia, but even they have to concede defeat, for the essay was too perfect for failure.

Three consecutive knocks are heard. Xuan Zang broke out of his deep thoughts. He and all the other professors turned their heads when a fellow educator walked in. Just seeing them alone reminded him of the greater goal at large. But because of the Keju ceremony, the preparation effort had him temporarily distracted.

"Master Xuan Zang," one of them greeted formally. It was the teacher of poetry in his program, alone with a few other lecturers and the Earth bending instructor. In his hands holds a small stack of paper, which have been routinely given to the university director for many years. "These are written reports of the student performances you wanted."

"Thank you," the monk stood up and received it. If he was being honest, looking at these student reports have been rather redundant. Although on the surface, his student exchange program is meant to attract aspiring scholars from outside the walls. Thus, promoting peace and unity while training Earth-benders. In reality, there is a greater goal that can hopefully bring true intervention in the turmoil and fracture of this continent. And it is because of that reason, he is always motivated to continue this student exchange program despite the lack of results so far. For the reward is so great, that the criticism to his so-called asinine game would be all worth it.

He slowly examined each report. Academically, most students did pretty well. Of course, the lessons are intentionally easy. Emphasis is placed less on teaching, and more on examining their innate knowledge and skills. In the classrooms, poetry, history and literacy are all designed to evoke certain memories. If there is anything out of the ordinary, the lecturers would be the first to notify him. Even the faintest recollection or familiarity from students are taken very seriously.

To put it simply, he is searching for the Avatar.

Since the tragic death of the last incarnate, he has never stopped looking for the next child chosen in this continuous cycle. The world is becoming more asunder, even oldest ties are beginning to show cracks, tearing into the once harmonious nations. Just like what Tenzin said, it is in the best interest of everyone to locate him or her as soon as possible. This program is designed to resemble the Air Nomad's method of searching the incarnate. It is inspired from using belongings from the pass lives to trigger familiar memories of the next Avatar. If mere toys and trinkets are proven effective in finding the Avatar, surely the elaborately designed poetry, arts and history lessons would help them pinpoint the correct one, right? If that does not work, the earth-bending instructor can also observe the student's bending capabilities. Historically, anyone with a potent level of bending can also be considered an Avatar in plain sight. Although extremely slim, he does have faith that the student exchange program, along with the likes of Tenzin effortlessly searching for the Avatar, will eventually find who they are looking for. The worst-case scenario would be for Korra to be the last Avatar, and the cycle ended with her. That thought alone did frightened him. What is the world going to do without an Avatar?

Xuan Zang investigated the files one by one. Almost every single student report has been the same. Average performances as expected of average teens. At least one decade of starting this program, he has long forgotten how much student reports he has read, none of them yielded the results he wanted. What he seeks is something that cannot be pieced together from words, he is looking for something...exceptional and peculiar.

He stopped upon noticing the name of a particular person, one that belongs to the daughter of his old friends across the other side of the continent. He cannot help but be surprised at the appalling grades. While the student exchange program was secretly meant to examine how students would react to familiar instances in history, the score of this girl is so terrible, he almost felt she is intentionally failing everything. Even worst, the bottom of the written report even noted that she cannot even bend a small training earth disc.

Xuan Zang sighed with concern. He is not ignorant of his two old friend's strengths and shortcomings. Between their two children, one of them is definitely more talented in the field of knowledge, inherited their father's intellect. But he knew only one of them is an Earth-bender and eligible to his 'student exchange' program. Unfortunately, the one enrolled right now have no affinity to the lessons., even sleeping during class once.

"Director, there is one particular student we have noticed to be a top performer. Based on her excellent results and behaviors, we want your input and opinion on this."

Hearing the ordinary request, Xuan Zang and all the other professors lift up their eyelids. They remained cautiously optimistic as the poetry teacher gave the monk a special student report. It's about a teenager from the Eastern Earth Kingdom, hailing from a tiny ethnic tribe located in an isolated village amongst the dense mountains. He vaguely remembered how he almost missed that location when selecting this year's exchange students.

Hudie is the daughter of the village chief. She excelled in all her lessons, showing an in-depth knowledge on history and poetry. But the report also stated that she expressed a particular interest into these events performed by previous Avatars. He reminded himself just how slim the chances are. The goal of searching for the Avatar have driven many to extreme means, becoming delusional and even despair at the fruitless endeavor. The common problem with locating the Avatar is that there is only one, akin to finding a single needle in a giant haystack, a drop compared to a vast ocean. It is not an easy task to locate the new incarnate, but the Earth Kingdom's massive population made it especially difficult. Whenever an Avatar is incarnated onto this massive continent, many failures and mistakes were committed in locating the chosen one. Drawing examples from history, it is commonly agreed that Avatars have an innate potency on the elements, a sign useful for locating the correct one. Avatar Kyoshi was famously known for bending massive landmasses. Despite unable to bend smaller rocks at a young age, she can still control larger chunks of earth. Avatar Aang is known to be a talented Air-bender before knowing he was the Avatar. At a young age, he invented a technique known as the 'air scooter', granting him an early arrow tattoo and becoming one of the youngest masters. Avatar Korra can bend the elements of water, fire and earth despite being a small child, a remarkable feat unseen before. All of this indicated that Avatars have a natural talent and advantage over everyone else in the aspect of bending. If this girl named Hudie can exhibit a special quirk in her bending, maybe there are incentives to suspect her as being the Avatar!

"How is her bending?" Xuan Zang inquired the earth bending instructor. The hardheaded bending instructor took a gulp of water from a gourd bottle. She sighed, groaning for some reason.

"Not the greatest, that brown haired lass can't even lift a small disc," blurted the woman. "How am I supposed to teach someone of that age to know how to perform the most juvenile bending?

Xuan Zang knew she must have mistaken who he was talking about. He quickly reminded that it's Hudie, not the daughter of Ming, who is now known as Hakaru.

"Oh, you meant the other one?" the instructor's eyes opened wider upon realizing her mistake. "She picked up the lesson much faster than her friend. I would consider her as definitely above the average."

The university directory thought about this. To his knowledge, there is no universal sign for an Avatar's bending other than it is 'impressive' or 'talented'. It's less specific, and more extraordinary when it comes to describe an Avatar's innate capability. In the past, those who search for the Avatar located the right one with very obvious signs. Whether if it's showing recollections of past lives, or in more clear cases like Avatar Korra, bending elements other than their native one.

"Director, I don't mean to disrespect, but I find these signs to be too subtle and vague." Shi Shen said while stroking his beard. "If you travel around this continent, surely you can find another student who is just as proficient in bending and capable in educative courses. As long as the subject in question does not bend an element besides earth, we must not jump to any wanton conclusions. Remember the last Earth Avatar? Yun? His mentors fed him with false promises, preparing him for a destiny that does not even exist. If we allow the same thing to happen, we will be no different as the Butcher of Zhulu pass. Who knows what destruction and pain we are setting up if we allow eagerness to cloud our judgement."

All the present professors nodded in approval. While some may find their fears to be irrational, paranoid even, it would be childish to not take this matter seriously. The case about the last earth Avatar stemmed from a misidentification by the Earth Sage named Jianzhu. He incorrectly identified a boy named Yun as Avatar Kuruk's successor, leading to his death by the real Avatar, Kyoshi. Which is why they must be thoughtful and cautious with every step they take.

"Besides, I doubt we will find the Avatar so soon, I think Tenzin's method of using past Avatar toys will be more effective," Shi Shen chimed in again. However, Xuan Zang may not be receptive to this notion. The Avatar's known features is that they can recall memories from a former life, able to trigger old memories upon seeing familiar sights or people. Which is why the Air Nomads use of toys are very effective when locating the Avatars born in the four temples. But what many did not consider is that they assume the Avatars can still recall past memories. They also assume that there will another Avatar.

The old monk swallowed his throat. The world is complacent, willing to believe in optimism because it made them feel good. Many still believe that they will find the Avatar. But he searched for the incarnate, while keeping in mind that all his efforts so far might be just a futile asinine game.

"I understand your concerns Shi Shen, but still, I believe the sensible approach would be to continue examining her skills and capabilities. Report anything unusual, or should I say, anything that may indicate she is the Avatar." Xuan Zang's words gave all the educators eyes of hope. For a tiny moment, he can see that same motivation Tenzin harbor. It's that innate desire, the faith that seemingly came out of nowhere and believe that a new Avatar would come to this world and quell all divisions and fracture. He may not know if the quest to find the Avatar would end up in failure or success. Regardless, he will savor the lingering feeling of hope within his friends.

"Hey, who is that, was he always here?" the Norther Water Tribesmen in the room pointed at an isolated corner in Xuan Zang's office. "When did he get in here?"

Believing this to be an insignificant matter, Xuan Zang shifted his head to the corner. He expected to see another one of his fellow professors, but mere sight of darkish robe and a conical helmet immediately dispelled this notion. In fact, almost everyone halted their breathing when looking at this mysterious figure. It's as if they are witnessing something so much more powerful than mere mortals and will silence them all if they spoke one wrong word.

"H-hey, what's gone into you all?" The only one who didn't react like a cold stone statue was the curator of the Elephant Koi fishes. Astrologist Shi Shen meanwhile, almost choked on his tea. He appeared froze, almost in a trancelike state in the presence of this stranger.

Without speaking, the mysterious figure in the corner slowly strolled to Xuan Zang's desk. The monk quickly hid a student report behind his back, afraid that the newcomer would notice it. But it wasn't Hudie's one, it was the student report belonging to the daughter of his two friends.

"A lovely day, isn't it?" the middle-aged man greeted, brushing his beard with care. He strolled to the front of the desk, scanning the tabletop filled with reports. He picked up Hudie's report, reading it thoroughly and examining the written comments about her achievements.

Xuan Zang did not do anything to stop this man. Frankly, he is grateful that this figure is not examining the student report of Hakaru's daughter, knowing that she is from Kyoshi Island.

The man with dark robe looked at the monk. "I must say, your efforts are to be applauded, even after so many years of operating this useless student exchange program, it is respectable that you have yet to gone senile."

"Thank you for your praise, I am most humbled." Xuan Zang bowed. He did so without addressing the apparent disrespect, knowing that the very consequence of speaking against this figure might be detrimental. The man continued to look at Hudie's report with keen interest, he inquired about the recent developments of the exchange students.

"Children are our future, we must help them see that everyone on this continent is one family. Only through the promotion of peace and unity can the conflict end." Xuan Zang explained. His back is still bowed forward but hiding his face behind the sleeves of the Air Nomad robe. "Besides, each one of us must do our best to elevate Ba Sing Se's legitimacy on the world's stage."

"Uh huh," the dark robe man responded with little interest. "That two youngsters in my custody may have a different say in the matter. I guess their perception of a nationwide family is of one without rule and order. Which is why I have taken a bit of liberty to perhaps reeducate them."

Xuan Zang wiped his forehead's sweat. He had received news about the destruction of a university garden by Jian Sin and Siaw Jong students. While he does not blame them for their fury emotions or the destruction of campus property, he is more concerned about their current wellbeing. Anyone who live in Ba Sing Se long enough would know its infamous shadow, the organization that dictates what comes in and out of the city. Although no longer with the same unrestrained power before, they are still a formidable force. In some areas, they would be considered even more effective than previous generations, who have failed Ba Sing Se twice. Yet, all those who have found themselves prisoners of those so-called men will found no true deliverance. If there was anything they wanted, they will get it. Up until now, the monk is still confused how the two students were even taken from the law officers.

The student exchange program also has a third goal. Aside from promoting unity amongst the fractured states and secretly act as another venue to find the Avatar, it also helps this city to develop its soft power across the war-torn continent. Although Ba Sing Se has so far not been directly involved in open conflicts, it is still a rather politically isolated settlement. Before the fracture, Ba Sing Se are technically in control of all the Earth Kingdom, acting as its capital and the seat for the sovereign. Now, it's very just another small entity in the face of many other warlords and independent states. But there is also one problem, since that Wu is not here, the United Republic along with a few other nations never officially recognized their legitimacy. Which is why almost every official, civil servants and military generals alike, are ordered to do everything in their power to elevate their geopolitical standing.

"You have a rather optimistic outlook of the world, Airbender," the man said with smooth tone. "Despite being one of us before, you act just like a monk born in the one of the four temples. Very intriguing."

"Master Xuan Zang is still one of us," Shi Shen sternly came to the director's aid. It's rather surprising how the usually frail astrologist can find courage in this situation. "Monks eat vegetables and meditate, but a certain someone is known to fail their kind, twice in fact."

"Hmm, a fair point," the middle-aged figure mused. He stroked his beard and strolled around the room. "While I agree that children are our future, and by extension the future of our world, my patience with your student exchange program have been waning."

Tension is heavy, but all the professors knew that all the cards are in this newcomer. Despite all the underling disagreements, they can only wait, hoping that they would be left alone. Besides, where do you think the additional funding came from? This organization, still control certain aspects they once held, like funding.

"Remember that zoo in the agrarian zone?" the man asked. This immediately struck a nerve in all of them. "The reason why it still stands is because people still visit it. It had a purpose, generating a result which I can see with my very own eyes. At the very least, it does not drain the coffers, or wasting valuable resources for childish idealism."

Xuan Zang lowered his head even further. He must defend what they all think is beneficial for the Earth Kingdom, and to the world by extension. "I swore on my life, that bringing all the students together have a positive effect on our fractured nation," he pleaded. "Education and promoting the values of peace and unity is a fundamental way to achieve peace between the states. Even if the Avatar is not found in this way, it still fosters warn relationships and help propel Ba Sing Se's status on this world. We must be hopeful."

The middle-aged gentleman burst out into a thunderous laughter. Xuan Zang's heart felt stone old, his words were never taken seriously in the beginning.

"Hope?" He looked at Xuan Zang with an eye wrenching glare. "What would a monk know about concepts like hope? If a farmer saw his crops are dying, and the water well have dried up. Why should he hope for a rain when all that is needed was to divert a nearby river to the farmland?"

"But that will unsettle the natural balance, the environment downstream will be affect due to the farmer's selfish actions!" Shi Shen snapped, playing along with his rival's analogy.

"So? The farmer did what he needed to keep his crops from dying." The man with conical helm argued. "When outdated morality is applied into a world where chaos reigns free, such morality will be no different to bygones."

Xuan Zang tried to reason with him. This isn't just about funding for the program, this is also about devoting to a greater cause to achieve peace and balance in the world.

"Hope may not be something you agree with sir, but I am sure you can also see the achievements it has done our people. Bringing the students from various states together not only allows them to study as fellow students, it helps them recognize that deep down every one of us are the same, people imbued with innate kindness. Wouldn't you also want to live in a world without conflict, hate and pain? A world where everyone respects and value each other, just as what every Avatar wanted."

The robed man draws out a few sheets of pages from his sleeve and slapped them on the desk. Xuan Zang recoiled at the sound. Slowly, he moved closer, the content on these pages is absolutely horrifying.

"Hey, what is that?" Shi Shen demanded.

Instead of answering, the robed figure faced all the scholars and respected professors in the room. Since education and the moralistic philosophy of Rujia is strongly linked together, it is naturally normal for almost all educated men to defend this belief system. Yet, this robed man only eyed them all with open disgust. "Humans, are no different from animals." He began. "Creatures that dressed themselves in the cloak of civilization while pretending to be morally superior to the beasts and critters of the wild. It is those who believe that humans are by nature good I find the naivest. Free a rabid dog from behind its cage and you will be reward with bites marks. For they do not even understand nor comprehend the very world they envision. Now look at you all, you great and wise teachers of moral codes, defenders of righteous values. You all claim that a great society can be maintained through the vestiges of human compassion, yet aren't you all enjoying the safety created by laws and force? Don't you great scholars argue how a ruler must not rely on a military to maintain order while rests comfortably, complacently behind massive walls and the Earth Kingdom's biggest army?"

No one spoke against him. Not even Shi Shen, who is the most vocal one.

"It doesn't matter how good a moral school of thought may be humanity will always be naturally selfish, evil and unworthy." The man headed for the doors, turning the door nub. "Sometimes, instead of feeding ourselves a fabricated reality, we can be realist and pragmatically face the world. Isn't that how the Keju exam is about?" He looked at Xuan Zang, who is glued to the pages on the desk.

Shi Shen stood up, cracking a few bones on his back in doing so. Slowly, he made it to Xuan Zang's desk to find out what made the monk so invested in the reading material. Unlike the calm and collected monk in the room, the astrologist felt his knees weakened when he saw what pages included.

It was a written report on the recent news in the Jian Sin and Siaw Jong war. In these pages are countless atrocities written in gruesome details. Although the war has been on Ba Sing Se's doorstep for almost two decades, they were never very that affected due to the city's neutrality. The gigantic walls and massive armies garrisoned in the agrarian zone also made them feel comfortable despite the ongoing conflict. Yet, many also took it as part of everyday life. They received news on ongoing developments with frontlines pushing back and forth, sometimes even betting money on who would win in an upcoming battle. But in truth, anyone who have spent even a second looking at the suffering in detail would understand the unimaginable horrors that are occurring right before their doorstep.

Only when one examines the unspeakable cruelty that occur every day on this land can they truly grasp the unforgiving reality. Despair, pain, sadness, and the general forsaking of any hope that things will be better, will all be gone when one stood against humanity's lowest instinct.

"It's time we all stop playing childish games and expel ourselves from a world of make belief. As fun as it is to test a child's memory with familiar objects and indulge in the anticipating feeling of finding the Avatar, perhaps we should drop our denial, and I mean all of us, including me." The man with long robe advised in a reconciliatory tone. He dropped the harshness at the last point and walked out of the room. It's a rather rare moment for people on opposing ideologies actually not trying to bring the other down. "Let us not pretend. We all know what precisely happened before the last one's death. To my knowledge, the cycle would break when the Avatar is defeated in their most powerful state. That was precisely what happened, whether we like it or not." The door of the office closed with the robed man using it for the first time. Even with him gone, Xuan Zang cannot help but find shreds of truth in those words. The Avatar is arguably the most important figure of this world, even more than monarchs. Without one, would the world still be in balance and harmony? He looked at a series of pictures that depicted the horrors on the field of Xue Di, the common battleground between Jian Sin and Siaw Jong. To be critical of his own flaws, Xuan Zang admits that living so long behind two giant walls have indeed obscured many gruesome details even from only one small conflict. While he also hopes for peace and unity across the land, there is also an unbearable pressure that at this very moment someone is being murdered in cold blood. Just like in almost every war, it's the innocent people that suffered the most.

"May the Great Earth Sage guide us to the Avatar as soon as possible!'' Shi Shen said with a sorrowful face. He called upon the founder of Rujia, hoping to receive some type of divine sign or direction from the grand scholar himself even though such figure is a human in the end. It's only when one feels the exact suffering of those who have faced war can they truly comprehend the horror of existence itself, which is the first curse of being in this world.

Xuan Zang breathed out a tired and sad sigh. Although like the scholars of Ru, he too believes that humans are naturally good, and evil have only obscured their innate compassion. But he cannot help but doubt his own morality and spiritual enlightenment from the monks. Were they all too childish? Are humans truly evil, selfish, and greedy at their very core? Is the legalist's worldview true all along?

Looking at these images of atrocities, the walls around his mind cracked into thunderous pieces. Just looking at the skulls and rotting corpses made him wonder if such acts are even committed by mere humans. From the Air-Nomad's perspective, attachments are a hinderance to true enlightenment, and they should not folly themselves with worldly concerns. But there are times when the suffering of other people grew too great, that the mere existence and comprehension of such horrors can make a person question the true nature of this world. It also made Xuan Zang wonder if what he is doing right now can even contribute anything at all.

This student exchange program he has been running, Tenzin searching town by town, and the Order of the White Lotus reigniting their search. Had any of those actually made a tangible change to the world? All of this is based on faith, but deep down none of them truly knows if there even will be another Avatar, a fact they are too afraid to confront. Assuming that there will be no more incarnations, and Korra truly is the last Avatar, then all their efforts so far are worth no more than a speck of roadside grass growing in a tiny gap on the wall. Meaningless and futile.

...

"You did what!?" Satchiko jumped out of her chair, almost toppling the books to the floor. At this point in time, she couldn't care any less about the study materials. The feeling of the class finishing is a great feeling after two hours of dull lectures, yet her sister just delivered the most unpleasant news. "Why did you not talk with me first? We could have at least discussed this carefully, and what about the job at Grandma Jin's restaurant?" How can her sister manage both job? Back on the island, work has never been too tiresome. Cooking fish stew has never been hard. She thought Mayumi still needed some time to be accustomed to working in a blazing restaurant kitchen.

It's great for them to discuss this sudden development in a university's garden, the same one where two rowdy students brawled over the Jian Sin-Siaw Jong war. The surrounding is still in disarray, only some flowers are replanted by the elderly gardener. So far, they conversed the issue on a half-broken bench, but still, she is more worried about her sister than the state of the furniture.

"You are over-exaggerating. He hasn't even agreed yet." Mayumi placed a hand behind Satchiko's back, believing that doing so may ease her sister's frowning concern. "I promised you that I would you find a tutor to help with your lessons, it doesn't matter who they are as long as you pass the exams and learn how to bend earth." She chuckled, somehow pleased with the results. "You know, I never thought enlisting his help is even within our options. If Shan agrees to tutoring you, I'm starting to think that you might even surpass father in the field of knowledge!"

Satchiko has a rather mixed feeling about this statement. Of course, a Zhuangyuan is a title Ba Sing Se don't give out freely. The Keju is notoriously known as the world's hardest exam, testing ancient classics and philosophy. Those who came out at the very top enjoys being at a peak where most people will never reach. While she knew that a Zhuangyuan represents the highest mastery of the political science, she is rather skeptical about being more educated than Hakaru. The limitations are still here, until now there is still trouble with basic writing and literacy, mostly accumulated from past laziness and escape from class back on the island. It's frustrating just how far behind she is when compared to peers, and most woes are self-inflicted.

"Is he an earth bender?" She wanted to make sure the decision was not made rashly. But knowing her sister, once a path was crafted, it's hard to change course. It's a shame that she cannot do it by herself.

Mayumi sighed. Her posture leaned forward a little. "Look, so far not everything has been set. He hasn't even agreed to teach yet." She got up, walking towards the garden's exit.

Despite receiving no worded command, Satchiko felt the pressure to follow. As much as she wanted to voice more of her own opinion on this matter, there is clearly no right for anymore debate. Even negotiation is not appropriate, considering many circumstances leading up to now. In her hearts, she knows Mayumi is doing everything to help her study, simply staying in the city alone is a challenge itself. Yet, there have already been many instances where her own recklessness has created tremendous stress for the older sibling. With all that burden she saw in her sister, right now the least she can do is being a bit more obedient. At least this decision isn't as rash when she mindlessly entered battle with the White Sparrow bandits, almost getting killed.

"Sister," Satchiko said behind Mayumi's back. The latter turned around. "What if...what if I somehow failed despite all the help I received?" It was a serious question. One that does not ignore her predisposition. Being born to a well-off family, a father who is a scholar and a mother who is a prominent warrior, she never truly worked hard towards something very important. Her combat skills are worthless in a city like Ba Sing Se. It's hard to not feel guilty. There are countless impoverished people around the world who never even receive the chance be educated, yet here she is, floundering the golden opportunity by struggling with almost every course here. Even the most basic lessons are miles ahead of her literacy. How can one reconcile with such humiliation despite all the privileges? "If I do fail to learn earth bending, then I would be a disgrace, a dishonor to us all."

"It won't," Mayumi reaffirmed with a firm voice. "I told you before, your work doesn't define your worth. You are not special to me because of your skills, it's because you are my sister. That's it."

Satchiko nodded lightly. She is in no position to argue, what right does she have after all the trouble she caused for Mayumi?

"Come on sister," the older one instructed as she resumed the stroll to the garden's gate. "Oh, don't forget those."

It made Satchiko look backwards. Slapping her forehead upon realizing the neglected her books. Hastily dashed near the bench with resounding speed, the petite teen recollected the belongings and bolted back to Mayumi. She scurried along her elder sister, both walked around the broken bonsai trees and holes. She wonders what happened to the two quarrelsome students. Did they got disciplined by Xuan Zang? Sometimes, she felt her mind cannot focus on a single thing. Despite her own literacy skills and abhorrent bending holding her back, the horrors of wars and conflict around the world is also strangling her heart, oftentimes distracting her from the goals at present, mastering bending, reaching her full potential and making her mother proud. Afterwards, she will think about it. It took them so much time and effort, almost dying just to get here, the least she can do is trying her best to succeed.

...

Despite what many may say, once a person set foot into the tea garden, they have witnessed the most serene garden of all the continent. But only those who have saw more of the Royal Palace's inner area can such notion be disproven.

Shan emerged from a stone moon gate, stepping into a garden filled with disorderly beauty. He is surrounded by countless array of exotic plants, flowers and trees, most of them concealing other sections of this dense ground. In front of him is a long nine-turn stone bridge built above a shallow space of water, a zigzag structure leading to another location blocked by dense flora. Slowly, he walked forward, boots laid onto the bridge, one hand supporting his back and the other wielding his iconic white fan, cooling himself on the march.

On the way, the path of the bridge traversed deeper into the garden. The longer he walked, the deeper the pond water becomes. Trees also sprawled certain types of exquisite species such as the famous plum blossom, and the waters grow with more lily pads, revealing beautiful pink lotus flowers with it golden cores. There was no pattern, no order in this wild arrangement of blooming environment. It's the first time for Shan being here, though there wasn't much interest in excessive decorations, the White Scholar himself cannot help but be slightly impressed with the colorful image painted by the gardener.

The bridge zigzagged, leading to a grand opening where the trees and plants no longer obscure his destination. It revealed to himself naturally, as intend by the designer of this masterful scenery. The meeting location lies in the center of a passive crystal-clear pond, where a small artificial landmass is constructed, connecting to another bridge from the other side of the garden. For a small moment, he felt a sense of peace and solace, the air is fresh from the double spring breeze that oscillated the orchid leaves and calligraphed the dance of peony flowers. It's as if time stopped for him just to marvel at this artwork, crafted with the most treasured gifts only the spirits themselves can devise. Although there was chaos, he enjoyed the countless lily pads and their lotuses, sharing the same world with swimming goldfishes, oblivious to the young man's suppressed astonishment. There was no sense of order in the crowded flora and artificial stones, the quiet serene elegance completely stifled such concerns.

He quickly snapped out of his distraction. Looking at the center pavilion and the man sat under it, he is reminded of this important meeting. Shan resumed the stroll in a control hastily walk, trying not to show eagerness. Once arrived at the pavilion, the one whom he is meeting greeted him. A tea set has already been prepared. From the aroma, it's easy to tell that the brew belongs to a noble tier.

"Welcome, my protégé," Han Fei directed Shan to sit on the chair opposite the table. Shan retracted his fan, put in inside the white colored changshan and occupied his seat.

"I hope the tea hasn't gone cold," Shan asked out of courtesy. But both knew that the brew is still heated, only keeping up with the etiquette as expected of upright Upper Ring citizens. It is likely Han Fei asked his servants to prepare the tea right before the young scholar enter this perimeter. Despite the dense forestation and bamboos blocking the view, Han Fei has a way to know, to know all that goes around the city even in a tiny alleyway.

"That you should not fear my student, this tea isn't anything too special, just some spare petals from a White Dragon Bush."

Shan tensed slightly from this overly casual statement. What Han Fei just said could be a subtle indication of displeasure. Never be late for an appointment is what the White Scholar strictly adheres to. Perhaps he has made the mentor wait for just a little too long? It is of course rude to make a host waiting for the guest in Ba Sing Se's unspoken rule.

Seeing Shan's composed yet slightly froze eyes made Han Fei broke a light laugh. It did help Shan to relax, albeit unnoticeable for the common people. To advance the process, Shan directly reaches out to the teapot, pouring tea first to Han Fei's cup in a sign of respect and then to himself. This is the communication between two gentlemen. Even though the tenant of Rujia espouses the idea of respecting elders, Shan has no energy to entertain such an idealistic and what he considers as a bygone and obsolete moral system. He simply did it because of stability and order, a show of respect to someone more capable, who have earned their place through meritocratic means indeed of birthright.

Just like any tea drinkers meeting together, the conversation would be obligated in discussing the surrounding scenery. Shan has always been slightly annoyed with this practice. Although his calligraphy and arts mastered over natural landscapes, in truth, he never shows too much appreciation to the environment or its unnecessary beauty. To him, the plants, trees and flowers are planted where they are as a sign of order and stability. All must be arranged perfectly, leaving no signs or chaos so that they must their places in the garden established law. Yet, the one he is in now does not have this notion. No identifiable pattern or standardized arrangement. Even though it is beautiful in its own right, to Shan, it also feels like a mess. A wild ostrich horse hard to tame despite all its excellent quality. Although this garden is alluring and voluptuous, he does not wish to associate with its chaotic nature, which goes against his tendency for order.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Han Fe enjoyed the tea as if he had tasted such rare brew every day, noticing his protege's disdain yet attraction to this garden. "They called this place the Treasure of the Spring, a name given by a past Earth King. Very fancy if I do say so myself. You see those goldfishes? I heard they are decedents of the same ones raised when this garden was constructed. The Earth King of that time personally cared for them, dedicated time and effort to ensure their care."

Shan looked at those fishes. Their shiny scales are without flaws, those fins looked like the delicate clouds floating the sky. These Koi fishes are by nature quite large, well fed and health taken care of by the Earth Monarchs. Clearly, this garden took up a great amount of the Monarchy's mind, who intends to upkeep this place as pristine as possible. But the young scholar simple stared at those fishes, disdainfully. Despite the usual expressionless face, Han Fei knew his protege's feeling.

It is oftentimes poetic how the Earth Kingdom depicts the Monarch and the royalty in general. In the moral based philosophy of Rujia which heavily emphasized the importance of family, a nation is often compared to one big household where social harmony is maintained through loyalty, piety and respect to elders and those in the position of power. There is a famous proverb often spat out by Ru scholars; Family is in essence a small nation, and the nation a large family. In an idealistic world governed by Rujia values, the rulers treat their subjects with compassion akin to a father who loves his children, thereby achieving social harmony. In return, the people must show respect to the rulers.

But only the children would know that such nonsense rarely happens at all. If one is not born in a period during a golden age of prosperity, all it takes to spark a revolt is an empty stomach or a disgruntled farmer. A small fire can easily burn down half a forest, where chaos reign free, thirsting for a change with a near suicidal drive. In many times, the Earth Kingdom monarchy and the governors in general are nothing more but lazy greedy nepotist, neglectful guardians who turn their eyes away from the starving and devote full attention to useless pleasures. This garden? It has been well cared regardless of the nation's status. Through rebellion, wars and famine, almost every part of the Upper Ring and the affluent palace retained their daily excessiveness. Afterall with massive walls blocking the view, all it takes is continuous indulgence, and pretend nothing is happening outside.

"Whenever I came here, I always felt a sense of calmness." Han Fei said while blowing at his tea, trying to cool off the steam. "It seems that this place always makes me not want to leave, like a small piece of paradise where all your concerns are melted down and replaced with nothing but restfulness. Just sitting and do nothing can be very relaxing." He savored the tea, allowing the legendary blew slowly slide through his throat as a singular path down the spine. Shan did not answer, he watched as a lone plum blossom slowly fall through air, dipping itself on the pond's surface and gracefully form gentle ripples circling it. A few goldfish swam to where the flower have dropped, mistaking it as food. "I would describe this place as a beautiful disorder, an anti-symmetry. One admires the art with which such unrestrained irregularity is carried out, everything is in good taste. It is actually so well arranged that there is not a single view from which all the beauty can be seen, you have to see it piece by piece."

To an uncultured eye, it's hard to notice the underlying philosophy used to create such pristine artwork. Amongst the five major Earth Kingdom school of thoughts also lies Mojia, a spiritual belief that is rather hard to define for most people. Unlike the rigid Rujia or Fajia, where both believe in a strictly set guideline or moral code, Daojia has a rather fluid and mysterious view on life and morality. Many often mistaken it as a religion because of its supposedly pantheon of deities. But true Daojia believes in a formless and unknowable entity known as 'The Way'. It cannot be understood, but it is there for some reason that is incomprehensible. The philosophy of Wu Wei is also derived from Daojia. As long as one allows nature to take its course, your path will be like a river, flowing to one direction in both ease and peace. It also encourages self-cultivation, training the chi within oneself to become stronger. But the unprecedented ambiguity and the promotion of 'doing nothing' is also criticized. Because of its versatility with other beliefs and religion, some of its practitioners took the idea of 'cultivation' and apply it without restraint. Some alchemists believe they can enhance their chi by mixing minerals and herbal materials together into a small medicine ball. Some even believe they can produce the elixir of immortality using mercury, most that consumed it have died from poisoning, a terrible fate almost befell of Avatar Korra. To those who value a proactive leader that efficiently governs a nation, Wu Wei is mocked by many. It is these unproven and unreliable teachings that have garnered criticisms. But few did find enlightenment in Daojia, believing in the flow of the universe itself.

Shan breathed forcefully through his nose, he lifted himself up from the chair made of hardened clay. The goldfishes blurted tiny air bubbles, finally noticing his cold glare. The young Zhuangyuan snapped open the white fan, fanning rigorously. He finished a cup of tea, not even bothered to commentate its otherworldly deliciousness. As perfect or bloomy this pleasure garden is, one has to ask what purpose does its prepossessing attractive serve? The Treasure of the Spring is commissioned by an Earth King who wishes to build the most beautiful garden in the world, aiming to challenge the Firelord of that time in prestige. Despite economic hardship and countless bandit raids ravaging the countryside, the monarch is more focused on such expensive project. And when the garden is completed, he sat here, leisurely drinking tea while the nation's problems are still not addressed. That is what made this cultural heritage so controversial. Whenever an inept monarch is plagued with problems across a poorly governed nation, they seclude back here, surrounding themselves in the presence flowers and blossom trees. A quiet world that gives off the illusion that all is perfect and beautiful, where all mental stress and concerns are temporarily distracted. Many scholars even describe this garden's construction akin to using human lives to build. A rather overexaggerated statement, but one Shan can believe in. As long as there is incompetent nepotist in power, chaos and disorder will fester naturally outside the Upper Ring.

"There is no point in beauty if it's anarchy in disguise," Shan remarked in his usual gentleman attitude. "Although accessories like this garden may be good for our eyes, there is no true value in using public resources to create something useless for the nation's stability." To this young man, art should not be wild arrangement of freewill or expression. It should be strictly structured, designed carefully. All must be in accord with the law so that true stability can take place.

"That is true," Han Fei agreed easily. Clearly, he sensed Shan's impatience, believing now would be a good time to move on to important subjects. This time, it's the mentor's turn to poured tea into Shan's empty cup.

In the context of Rujia, the predominant philosophy that governs Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation conduct between a younger and a senior, Han Fei's insignificant action would be a major transgression. Pouring other people's tea is meant to demonstrate respect, usually to an older or superior ranked individual. But both Shan and Han Fei do not waste their time on such bygone moral code of honor on each other. Unless in public or to other people, they never took the values of family as seriously as the Earth Sages and Rujia scholars. People like Shan value skills, not age, birthright or titles. It's how one gets there and how useful they are to the state itself.

"I would like to congratulate your ascension," Han Fei joins Shan by his side. Both looked at the fishes that are eating away the blossom flower, bit by bit. "While it is truly impressive that you attained the title of Zhuangyuan, the greatest achievement I see is your endorsement of legalism into your essay, an act that could have foiled your chances, yet it seems that the spirits of past Avatars are truly on your side. Even those childlike moralists in all their pettiness cannot help but accept your talent. " The mentor chuckled, drinking another cup of celebratory tea.

Shan did not respond verbally. Only with a nod firm did Han Fei move on to another topic. "I must say, it is unfortunate that I was not there to witness the glorious moment the Te clan made a scene," Han Fei sigh with a smile. "Must have been rather comedic moment, since everyone expected that Lady Te Gaogui would be the one to be the Zhuangyuan. How does it feel Shan? Your request to challenge the entire city using your essay is impressive. I hope you are prepared in case someone did manage to perfect your writing more."

"I do not make my choices lightly." Shan reaffirmed in the good spirit of the Keju. "I did not need to feel empathy for a competitor," he unapologetically responded. "His father allow senility to cloud judgement. The Keju is cruel, sometimes unfair, but only the best essay can determine one's placement, even if it's just one word mistake." He fanned the chin, cooling the body in the process of recounting the ceremony. The audacity of many nobles lies in their arrogance. Despite being born into a wealthy family with more advantages such as study time and better tutors, they have no right to criticize a commoner's handwork and better reward. In a true meritocratic system, anyone should be allowed to rule if that person has the wisdom of a sage and the might of a badgermole. "Perhaps the utmost foolhardiness would be his delusional thinking. The grave mistake of the Te patriarch would be to publicly challenge my legitimacy. From here on, they will only bathe in more dishonor of which I have prescribed for them."

"Do not push a dog to a dead corner, or else it will bite," Han Fei showed a subtle look of concern. As the director of Ba Sing Se museum, he naturally has stakes in maintaining good relationship with wealthy households, especially feudal clans that rule over their own independent domain such as the Te and Beifong. It is Ba Sing Se's official policy to increase its own presence in a fractured Earth Kingdom, but risking ties is absolutely not allowed. Their carefully maintained neutrality must not be challenged, at least not now since no wars are directed to the city. In the current turmoil where essentially all the Earth Kingdom states are warring with each other, it's best to maintain 'allies'. In fact, if another state does not plan to attack yours, it's already a great blessing. Which is why Shan's action against the aristocrats of Zigan could be a risk.

"The Te patriarch was the aggressor, I simply replied to his audacity." Shan said.

"Oh well, as long as you don't overdo this," Han Fei advised. "The Te clan's power may be waning every day, but even a dying dog can still be useful to us. Sharp fangs can still bite regardless of age." He enjoyed the tea, then bring up another point of discussion. This meeting is meant for both of them to catch up after all. But there is a topic Shan did not anticipate. He thought it wouldn't matter in the eyes of Upper Ring aristocrats, who probably would forgotten about one slight aspect on the Keju ceremony.

Han Fei gently swirled his cup of tea in circles, looking at his reflection with a smirk. Shan noticed, and he took it is a bad sign. Years of working under his mentor have led him to read what Han Fei would do next.

"While I was having an afternoon tea with prefect Bao, I have overheard unfathomable developments from the ceremony's guests, rumors that may not be ideal to your future reputation," said the director. Shan tensed up again. The young scholar's worst realizations have become true. "While we are not like those inept moralists, even legalist do not tolerate an indulgent like Ximen Qing," Han Fei reiterated strongly.

The implications are clear. Shan flapped his white fan with more frequency, noticing Han Fei's darkening expression. Before the mentor was just praising Shan's achievements, appeasing the youngster for stalling the conversation on a fancy garden. Now it's reversed.

"She was a mere servant, nothing more," Shan cloaked himself with a sense of calmness, not allowing the tension to unnerve his resolve. The young scholar correctly guessed what Han Fei was inferring to. More specifically, who.

"Oh very?" Han Fei exaggerated his curious expression. "That is highly unexpected from the White Scholar himself." He strolled around where Shan is standing, almost like interrogating a criminal. "So long as that servant performed the given duties adequately, I can let this pass. But as for the folks in the Upper Ring, you will need to work harder to cover up your mistake."

"Of course," Shan bite his lips. Today was supposed to be another unstoppable landmark in his upward rise. To think that a mere pebble dare stand in the way of his ambition is absolutely unacceptable. He thought as long as the doors are closed, that uncultured woman will eventually seek another scholar's service. It is unexpected that Han Fei has caught wind of this quickly, meaning the false rumors are spreading quickly amongst the aristocracy. However, Shan also blames himself for this. There is no excuse for his lack of oversight. "From time and time again, I have proven to be your worthy successor," Shan defends himself from grotesque allegations. "You told me that no matter where we came from, the only thing that matters is our skill matching our ambition. The so-called rumors are simply a misunderstanding, I will ratify this quickly.'' But deep down, the young man also felt he was being played., unknowingly walking into a premade trap set by that older sister. It's as if a mere waitress outwitted him in a game of Pai Sho, tearing down the defenses and position all her tiles into an inescapable encirclement. He may be overthinking this. Perhaps it's just like that brown hair woman has described, it's a 'series of unfortunate coincidences' that have led them together. When he lends her that umbrella, he originally intended a different result.

Han Fei nodded. Satisfied with the answer, the middle-aged man placed down his cup and decided to end this little meeting. He sighed. "You have grown up, and now you are standing on another mountain peak higher than the last one you climbed. It is rare for a legalistic scholar like you to be inaugurated, let alone passing. Your exceptionalism made me proud, and your name will certainly echo throughout history as a defining young prodigy. But make no mistake, reward and punishments still applies to you. No one is an exception. A tall tree that took twenty years to grow will fall in just twenty minutes. Just like you, Shan the White Scholar, one small taint on a perfect artwork is all it takes to ruin it all. It is much more noticeable than the previous paintings I threw out. I shall now take my leave. There are also other works we must confer, understand?"

"Yes mentor, your student will continue his diligence." Shan placed his hands together into a formal hand salute, clasping one of his fists and bowed. Han Fei slowly walked away, exiting the garden using the bridge Shan came from. Shan knew his mentor did this in accordance with Daojia, following one singular path like a flowing river. For a while, the Zhuangyuan stood under the ornate pavilion, pondering as he watches the fish swimming around, they occasionally resurface to eat some flower petals that fall into the pond. There is a famous saying, about how the fish in this pond is more nourished than the majority of the Earth Kingdom. While nobles and those gentry moralists emphasize the importance on maintaining strict hierarchy, he knew it's easy to espouse such notion without having an empty stomach. Like these fishes, he questions what purpose they truly serve besides being a hinderance to an efficient and centralized state structure.

He now contemplated his future from here. Since all Zhuangyuan are remembered as the most exemplary of the educated, there is no doubt future generations will regard Shan to a high degree. But that highly depends on if the Ru scholars would allow such fantasy to even happen. Most likely, some historians in the future might even erase his Zhuangyuan title or existence entirely from history. Afterall, legalism is not the philosophy in power now, it is Rujia, a school of thought filled with out of touch moralists, preaching the mitigation of using military to quell subversion while also being protected by it simultaneously. A student from a rivaling philosophy earning the title of Zhuangyuan is certainly a huge blow. But Shan does not fear being erased from history. For his ambitions is beyond just being another high ranking official in the city's complex bureaucracy. He wanted to be at the top, the very top of Ba Sing Se where history wouldn't even dare to ignore.

End of chapter note:

-I feel like by now some of you might have already caught on that the philosophies presented in this story is taken from real life examples. The Earth Sages in canon certainly intrigue me the most. To me, the real-life counterpart would be the Confucian scholars who reside in China, Korea and Vietnam, promoting such values amongst the people. The arch enemy of this belief is the real-life counterpart of Fajia, which is legalism, the state principle has been applied to govern the state of Qin until being partially replaced following the change of dynasty to Han.

-Family is in essence a small nation, and the nation a large family is an actual Earth Kingdom proverb in an Avatar comic (The search). It examines nation's leader on how they should best treat the people. It does bear a very strong resemblance to the family centered ideology of Confucianism, where it preaches that as long as a King is compassion, the nation will be ruled well. Of course, many people such as the legalist do oppose such notion.

-The treasure of the spring garden is modeled after those expensive gardens built during dynastic times. Unfortunately, my mediocre writing skills are not proficient enough to depict its imagery. Since we have been introduced to the philosophy that gave birth to Wu Wei, I will try to explore the two other major schools of thought in future.

-For the old readers, you might have remembered that I referred to Shan as the 'Book Dragon'. It is later changed to the 'White Scholar' in synonymous to the color of his clothing, a type of color that is not very auspicious culturally.