A Ba Sing Se general returned to the agrarian zone, once again inserting him into the section area around the wall that is home for many years. For the entire trip between the Upper Ring and the agrarian zone's outer wall, he sat on the badgermole, playing a simple tone with an old wooden zither. It is a well-known fact that these gigantic beasts' penchants over music.
But if he was being honest, the general is never actually good at playing any musical instruments. He simply made a few random noises that incoherently produced an ear wrenching song. Yet, it seems that the badgermole have a wonderful taste in music. Either these creatures are too stupid, or they possess an intelligence so superior that can understand the deep, subtle and complex harmony in his improvised music!
Or maybe the latter part is just his wishful thinking. At least he doesn't need to hire a professional musician to direct this badgermole in battle. Although much slower, spending time with an original Earthbender is much more preferable than using that soulless monorail.
The closer they got to the bastion, the louder his men's chant becomes. Even without him saying so, they are always refining their skills every day without rest. Recently, a small platoon of new soldiers is inducted into his army. Although they are ragtag group of unprofessional men, eventually they will be morphed into the soldiers in his image.
Sounds of crossbows intensified, strings pulling backward and releasing rhythmically. There are of course no arrows used. Most of the time a strong emphasis is placed on individuals working in coordination. On a large open plain, such a weapon must be utilized in mass, inflicting a vast area of damage. Accuracy is not a problem. Even in small, fortified bandit towns, a rain of arrow is enough to kill anyone manning the walls. If that is not enough, the Earthbenders will be of great use.
He walked through the encampment's gate. It's still the same. Sounds of the blacksmith making polearms and meals being cooked repeated every day at this time. But as he arrived closer to inspect the tents housing heavy machinery, he is immediately greeted by a small dust cloud stirred up by a passing tank. Its long heavy multi-segmented tracks resemble a giant metal caterpillar, powered purely by bending. It is a state-of-the-art design, with an Earth Kingdom emblem placed at the front. All it takes is a crew of four well trained Earthbenders to operate these slinky tanks. In his eyes, this old design by a master mechanist has several advantages over many rivals, such as the ones employed by Kuvira's Earth Empire. Just like the mighty earth itself, the tank is like a shield, able to endure many projectiles. Against other armored vehicles and fortified defenses in direct melee, almost nothing can stand a chance. Able to traverse difficult terrain, these giant caterpillars made of metal don't need that black oozy liquid to power its engines, and the speed is also impressive for such a heavy construct.
The side hatch of the slinky tank snapped open. Out jumped a short older man in his fifties, bald headed, wearing a thin suit of cord and plaque. He smiled warmly at the Judge of Honghai, revealing the crooked and somewhat missing teeth.
"Oi General!" He greeted with loud friendly voice. "Back from the party late, eh? Did ya have fun with those delicate and whiney folks? Or did you punch them up? Hahahaha!"
"Captain Meng Tian, nice to see you," the general used his hand to rub off some dust that have gathered on the left pauldron. The unfortunate part of standing so near to a moving Earthbending tank is the impossibility of keeping oneself clean.
"A bit of dust wouldn't kill!" The older man joked. "Ya know what people say about us Earthbenders? The more dirt we have, the better we are!"
Although there is some support for this theory, there is nothing too concrete showing that Earthbenders covered in more of their element improves the innate bending prowess. But having more of the element one control is advantageous over having less. The Judge of Honghai did not mind his subordinate's humor. Despite Meng Tian being an elder, he has an inferior military rank delegated to command all tanks within this unit. Usually, the slinky tanks would coordinate with Jang's cavalry, achieving excellent shock tactic against wandering daofei armies and small bandit fortresses.
"Has Jang returned yet?" the general asked.
"He has!" Meng Tian confirmed while drinking some water from a gourd bottle. "In fact, he is training those new guys right now."
It seems that the lieutenant has returned straight from the Keju ceremony just to train the newcomers. How dedicated.
The ironclad warrior wants to get a better view of the training grounds. Climbing the stairs of the wooden fortress wall, he oversees Jang in action. Amongst those thirty men, they are suited in an armor that is much heavier than what they were usually accustomed to. These newly founded warriors, inexperienced with being in an army, most unfortunately are just like him, forced to go through the worst of war.
"Again!" Jang demanded fiercely. He supervised the trainees with an unflinching gaze, forcing everyone in the training area to rigorously perform the drills. The war hound would bark at anyone falling behind. The suspicion that one will be bitten is already a good motivator not to stop.
The row of recruits stabbed their Ji in forward motion, skewing straw dummies that resembles a person. Liu the Jiansinese is also amongst them. The halberd has proven to be a difficult weapon to use. His newly issued polearm is a spear with an additional dagger-axe and a hook, which has the combined versatile usages such as stabbing, blunt damage, and maiming a daofei's leg. It certainly is much more hefty than regular spears, and the three eyed lieutenant demands them all to fight on.
The war hound barked furiously at Liu upon noticing the man's weak stab and poor body posture. The recruit has stuck his weapon into the strawman, unable to extricate it from the surprisingly durable hay material. This immediately drew the unwanted attention from Jang, who stormed over and reprimanded his underling.
"Have you not eaten?" Jang demeaned. "Did Jian Sin not even train you before how to stab?!"
"W-well, I'm not sure if-" Liu fumbled on his words. Before he can react, Jang pushed the man away and singlehandedly torn out the spear. The instructor forcefully shoves it back into the recruit's nervous hand. In doing so, the fiery warrior from the Fire Nation ripped the straw dummy into half, almost like an injured man with spilled blood and broken innards. Without receiving any command, Liu continued to train with the dying strawman opponent. The Judge of Honghai observed every tiny detail. He looked at the tired expression and the restrained use of force. Liu is most likely preserving energy for the upcoming training, which is much more rigorous than simply stabbing at an opponent. It reminded the general of himself when first joining a military organization, albeit as a bender without needing a weapon.
Training always felt repetitive, trying to give you the minimal practice that lack the many dangerous nuances on the battlefield. To him, preparing a soldier for combating bandits must not only include good equipment and training, but there must also be education, or indoctrination to be more brutally honest. In the past, he fought bandit gangs, some of its members are equipped with poorly produced nine ring broadswords, yet still have the courage to charge at his fully armored Bingmayong phalanx. Of course, those renegades died. Their bodies rushed straight into a wall of spears and impaled by rains of arrows. But sometimes, there are those who still have the will to fight. Why? It's because they are motivated by something bigger than their pathetic lives.
People like these are either very idiotic or have great visions that is more important than mortal bodies. A good example would be that Earth Empire fool, the same one who is venerated all across this war-torn land like a deity, a fool with stone statues that is worshipped by even more fools. The same one who killed the last Avatar may have died in his far-fetched goals, but he has found that 'thing' which override the fear of facing the strongest opponent on this earth. It is so strong that life and death no longer mattered. All there is to do is accomplish that 'thing' inside his head. But at what cost?
He shifted the helmet to a passing patrol of veteran troopers, peering through the mask of Lionturtle, he remembers all of them. Each one of them has their own motivation that led them to join the Bingmayong. All of them actually have a similar goal which all involves vengeance. And that is what completes his training. Incorporating that insatiable drive to deal tenfold suffering back to the bandits outside these walls is what motivated many of his subordinates. It was a promise he made to those who joined him, the frequent opportunity to right wrongs over the barbarians and renegades in blood.
The general looked back at Liu. So far, Jang is barking out orders, commanding new recruits to enter various formations with those large rectangular shields. Quickly entering arrangements such as a walled phalanx and the closely narrow testudo aims to protect non-benders from projectiles such as arrows and elemental attacks. Of course, exceptional bending masters can actually easily take out such formations by altering the ground and breaking the defense. Waterbenders and froze the ground, making the men slip and create gaps amongst the shields. Earthbenders opens the ground apart, breaking the unit easily. Only in extremely rare situations, Firebenders mastered the dangerous technique of lightning can absolutely electrocute everyone in the area. As for Airbenders, he is not too sure. A well-trained non-bending formation can easily brush off a strong wind. He has certainly not met any Airbenders fighting for bandits. But essentially, the shield carried by infantry are resistant to projectiles. When used correctly with good tactics, they are effective against the mostly poorly equipped bandits like those White Sparrow gang.
"Close the gaps you imbeciles!" Jang harshly ordered. He noticed how some individuals are neglecting the protection of others, placing their own shields closer to themselves and creating slight gaps. But it is such selfish thinking that often dooms a cohesive unit, and then that individual too.
Liu and a few others were spooked by their trainer's intimidating scream. They quickly tightened their formations. Jang then gave the signal. On the other side of the training area, a group of older members came charging forward. Using very real weapons to slash and stab at the now shielded men. Obviously, these seasoned soldiers were once in Liu's position as well, but they have zero intentions to be cordial with the recruits. Each one of them carried a heavy killing intent when facing their new allies.
The Jiansinese and the others trembled, but nonetheless endured this potentially dangerous training. When that phase was done, they switched to using Earthbenders throwing small sized boulders at the ill prepared group. With each impact, the men with shields faltered. Usually, it would be a good idea to use the juggernaut slinky tank or other Earthbenders to shield infantry from harm. But during a battle, everything can go wrong. Which is why training soldiers with such techniques is better than randomly charging at a foe who can harness the very substance around them.
"Array!" Jang roared, holding the lance up. Sounds of war-drum also motioned the new troops to enter a circular shield wall. The instructor whistled sharply with his mouth, calling for his ostrich-horse with reddish feathers. The beast is faster than usual mount, galloping at an astounding speed that can charge through the feasibly assembled line.
The lieutenant rode his war mount and circled around the shield formation, he fixated on the Jiansinese, wanting to correct the earlier sloppy mistake.
Liu worried, he presumes that Jang will be shooting fire at them. He raised the shield, hoping to endure the heat. But it never came. Instead, he felt an extremely heavy force clashed into the barrier, strong enough to send him backward with immense shoulder pain. He landed on the ground, dropping his shield, the others hastily repaired the gap by tightening the formation. The circle is now a bit smaller.
The lieutenant did not bend fire, but instead chose to use that lance and smash the shields. He swung with utter rage, tension filled with killing intent, malice and eyes almost bloodshot. Some of the new recruits must have thought their trainer have succumbed to madness. They tried to hold on, but Jang's aggressive attack broke their formation easily.
One of the recruits screamed in despair. "He's going to kill us!"
...
Jang slowly guided his ostrich-horse through the center of the training ground. All around are exhausted men who can no longer even stand. Sweat covered their skin and the accompanying them are the symphony of endless panting.
"Is this all there is?" Jang demanded. The war mount trotted over a scattered shield, looking down at Liu. Even an animal doesn't wish to show the newcomer any respect. "I thought you are all men. If this is the capacity you can fight, then what are you going to do when face a bender?" This question deeply concerned the recruits. Even without using the power of Firebending, they were still beaten through sheer force.
"Stupid ashmaker," one of the men of ground muttered bitterly. "What makes you think that a Firebender is worthy as our superior?" He arrogantly challenged.
Jang glanced at him, unfazed by the insult. "A superior in the ranks must not only earn it through merits, but to be able to maintain the loyalty of subordinates through their choice."
"Well, you are not having mine!" bellowed the disgruntled recruit. "What kind of training are subjecting us to anyway? Are you trying to kill us?"
The Judge of Honghai slurped a cup of jasmine as he watches the interaction. Doing so may provide insight into these new men, and maybe giving a clue as to how to better lead them. It's easy for military commanders to dismiss an army as a number, sending them as a mindless blob into the enemy. But each soldier has their own goals and personalities. Unlike a piece of Pai Sho tile, once they fell in battle, the game does not reset. It makes each move on the board much more important.
When a person dies, it is not only the individual died. It is also the soul of their loved ones, who will endure an unbearable pain much less palatable than physical harm.
"If I did not kill you by the end of your training, then regular barbarians and renegades cannot kill you as well," Jang stated coldly. "But if I did kill you, it only proves that you are not even worthy enough to fight under the general. The Judge of Honghai do not accept those who have not given their all. Soldiers who have floundered their full potential deserves nothing."
This sent that recruit into anger. Liu tried to stop him, but that man simply grabbed a weapon and try to attack Jang. But just as the sharp tip tries to contact the Firebender's dark lamellar, something else forced the recruit to the ground.
It was another Bingmayong soldier, a much older one. He used a polearm, locking the lively man to the ground by the neck.
"Let me go!" the troublemaker demanded. "I want to teach this ashmaker a lesson!" But the weapon stabbed deeper, forcing him to breathe carefully.
"Speak carefully when you address the Vermillion Bird," the other Bingmayong dryly said. The narrow pair of eyes showed little expression, as if the lives of the new recruit mattered little.
The general leaned on the wooden handrails. He waited, but it seems that the recruit needs something a bit more convincing to finally show some respect to Jang. While many may view the Firebender's gruesome training as harsh and excessively dangerous, the truth is that even the most fatal training will never replicate the true horrors on battle.
He walked off the fortification, slowly making himself known to everyone.
"General, you are back," Jang quickly got off his war mount, placing his palm and fist together and bowed. All the other soldiers and recruits did the same, except for the Bingmayong who is ensnaring the troublemaker to the ground.
The general ordered for the release. He walked forward, and the newcomer got up from the ground to lower his head. "Thank you general."
"Zhong, I see that you are not adapting well into my unit," the general directly said. He went straight to the point, quickly noticing the recruit's difficult expression.
"General, the training was too excessive, why are we subjected to life and death situations? This isn't a battlefield." Zhong complained. "Why are Earth Kingdom soldiers like us being handled by an ashmaker?"
Such derogatory are often used against Firebenders. The Hundred Year War may be generations ago, but the unhealable scars and wound inflicted by the Fire Nation is deeper than the ocean itself. No atonement can ever recover all that is lost in the world. Jang stand by, not even trying to retaliate. But even without the presence of the general himself, the warrior from the island nation will still respond in silence.
One of the older Bingmayong in the background snickered, he waited until the general delivered something Zhong does not wish to hear.
"Is it too hard for you?" the general asked Zhong. "Look all around you, look at these other men who you were just training with."
Zhong did so. All around are tired and exhausted men, shattered shields that have been broken by Jang's earlier assault. It was a pathetic sight.
"All of this is from a man who didn't even use his bending. You are right, this isn't a real battlefield, because the real one would be tenfold of what you can even handle. Ask yourself this, if a non-bender like you all can't even handle a mounted lancer for one minute, then how will you face the bandits who come at you with forces you cannot control?" He wanted to remind Zhong of one unfortunate reality of war, non-bending infantryman are often nothing more but cannon folders against benders. The general even used his two hands to wildly point at his head. "THINK ZHONG, THINK!"
To him, Jang may be seen as cruel, sometimes hurting the recruits and even cause some bleeding to newcomers. But if the Firebender treats them comfortably, lessening the trainings to a much digestible manner, that is the true cruelty a leader will display to soldiers. Against reality, even the most confident men will falter. If Jang is not rigorous during the preparation, then the result will not only be detrimental, but even fatal to these men on a real battle. Perhaps it's that instinct synonymous to all Fire Nation citizens. They believe that true care can come from strict and sometimes painful experiences. Teaching a child how to stand up after falling is much more lifesaving than trying to never fall down. It is because of such unapologetic and realist thinking that made Jang so effective, and he is grateful for the Firebender's many years of service. The least the general can do is help troublemakers to be a bit more receptive to the training regimen, and respect.
"I despise people who refuses to reach their full potential," the general said out of the blue. "If you think my second-in-command, whom I have personally chosen is unsuitable to be instructor, then would you like me to do it instead?"
Zhong hastily agreed, unknowingly walking into a trap. The general then ordered the recruit to attack him, sending the young man into confusion. But it was not even a contest of strength, it was a lesson.
"Go on, do not hold back," the general requested.
A Bingmayong warrior came near, carrying that heavy glaive so often used by the ironclad man. Just before the handler would collapse from exhaustion, the Judge of Honghai singlehandedly picked up the guandao with his left hand, kicking the blade so that it faces Zhong's direction.
Zhong firmly grasped a polearm. He points it at the war hero and gradually picks up speed. With the blade at front and a long wooden shaft keeping some distancing between them both, the recruit stabbed at the Earthbender. But it didn't work. In the speed of an eye brink, he snaps the polearm in half in a quick cutting motion, sending Zhong retreating backwards.
"You are too young, too simple." The Judge of Honghai strolled towards Zhong. The latter grabbed a shield and protected himself. But it was no use. The recruit expects the general to attack the shield first but did not know that in the patient ways of Neutral Jing and Earth Kingdom traditional strategy, all warfare is based on deception and finding the key opportunity to strike. It could be a hundred years for a grand strategy to work, a lot of time, it's about doing the most effective move to take down an opponent. "Sometimes, too naive." The general lifts up the ground beneath Zhong, rendering the shield completely useless. This moment reflects problem non-benders have since the beginning of time. In a world where people can control Air, Water, Earth, and Fire, people without such abilities are almost powerless. The average non-bender cannot defeat the overwhelming powers possessed by the elemental masters.
The general flung Zhong into the air. He watched as the recruit is sent flying to a nearby stable, dropping through the roof and frightened the ostrich-horses that was just resting peacefully. Thankfully, the spot where Zhong landed was soft. But it was embarrassing. Unluckily, the cushioning area is a pile of animal dung, even more stinky than the dark liquid that powers airships and oil lamps.
"On a real battlefield, you would have been dead!" The general raised his volume that rings across the yard. "Bandit armies will not hesitate to attack when you are unprepared and exploit your weaknesses! They will not show you the same mercy as we did, understand?"
The men are silent. He did not expect them to give a quick answer. Motivation has a rather mysterious property. When the secret workings of a person's mind activate at the right time, they can destroy an entire mountain if the heart and soul is dedicated. All these recruits are mostly peasants. Just like the current inducted Bingmayong, they were also outcasts or conscript cannon fodders like Liu from the Jian Sin warlord army. They came here for various reasons, but no matter how much prior fighting experience they possess, majority of them are no less strong than the average infantryman, lack of training and low on morale. If facing fanatical bandits or any benders at all, these new non-benders will be easily decimated. But their current drills will only involve the simple procedures such as how to form shield walls and learning to defend against benders and cavalry. As for the part where he will reignite their motivation, that will have to come later, at the last stage of their induction trainings.
"As for you." The general arrived to Zhong, whose entire upper body is still embedded into ostrich horse waste. "I will make this very clear, your disrespect to the lieutenant is disrespect to me. When I accept a new troop into this unit, I demand soldiers, not warriors."
While those two may be similar, they are actually very different beings. A soldier follows orders, work cohesively with others to fight an army as one entity. But a warrior is different. They are prideful, more skillful, and most of the time they can defeat a soldier in single combat. But warriors tend to follow their own ideals and glory above the collective cause. It would be unfair to generalize everyone, but Ba Sing Se's plain field warfare on desert lands demands the guards to fight collectively, or else the bandits can easily exploit their individual weakness. With the exception of a few officers like Jang, who served in the Fire Nation's prestigious guard unit under Zuko, none of the Bingmayong hails from an impressive military family or warrior origin. To transform these regular peasants into a proficient unit takes more than just refining skills. Their ability to work together and carry out orders effectively also must not be overlooked.
"Don't worry general!" a young hotshot Bingmayong arrived from behind. "I will make sure the new guys are going to get a taste of what we senior have to go through before, whipping them into good shape!" He climbed onto a war chariot at the other end of the ground, positioning himself to run over the already tired recruits. Liu and the others swallowed their throats, anxious at what insane training is coming. That chariot used by the young soldier has rotating spikes attached to the wheels. And those well-built ostrich horses pulling the cart? Their large feet are obviously here to trample all on sight.
"Very well corporal Li Xin," the general said. He patted Jang's shoulder. "Continue on then. I see that you are all managing very well, I will come back later."
As the harsh drill instructor delivers out another barrage of unbearable training, the general casted a glance at Liu. The Jiansinese looked tired but haven't given up yet. He knows people like them, a breed that have lost everything but is also willing to do everything for revenge. Afterall, the general himself is one of their kind as well. The ones with that insatiable desire to correct the world.
"Oi general!" the old man from the tank called out. "What about you? What are you going to do?"
"Simple, housekeeping," answered the Judge of Honghai.
...
He arrived at the door of his wall turret. Upon pushing it open, he is greeted by a room of deep darkness. One corner has an oil lamp, useful in the task of rejuvenating the dwelling.
This place is rarely cleaned, a huge surprise considering how nothing stinks in here. All around are old collections, accumulated from a long and audacious journey across the world. He began with the weapons section, cleaning belongings from former enemies. Artistic blades and brutish axes, and strange other objects populated the whole wall. He wondered, maybe next time there will be a true legendary piece that can be added. Frankly, the hammer from last battle is too simple and unrefined. Unfortunately, the White Sparrow bandits do have any weapons of good value.
He looked at the empty weapon rack that intends to hold the most desired weapon. The blade from the tyrant is one that is almost never used in real battle. But it was held by the man who at one time exerted most power in the Earth Kingdom, even greater than the Earth Monarchy. Having it in possession will complete one of his lifelong dreams.
He worked through the shelves, dusting some long forgotten belongs like some vase or boxes containing trinkets. Most are just objects he found interesting, but not as important as the collection of weapons or paintings for every battle. There is also a small statue of the Avatar killer. Looking at the figure, he remembered how some people set up these around their homes or shop, offering food and incense sticks. It is common for famous figures throughout Earth Kingdom history to be deified, as the continent's main spiritual practice is folk religion. Around the continent, one can find shrines and temples dedicated to legendary generals or historic figures. Avatars are remembered through similar means. Folk heroes have a special place in the people's heart for the valor or honorable deeds. There are even festivals held in towns and villages, even the legendary air Avatar Yang Chen is prayed by many Earth Kingdom folks.
But it is strange as he is certain those national heroes and Avatars did ask to be made a deity. They are just humans with flaws, not some invincible paragons like the benevolent spirit Lady Tienhai.
While there is nothing wrong with learning the lessons from those characters, what did people learn in the Avatar Killer, the villain of the story? Did they build statues of him because of that man's courage to challenge an overwhelming obstacle or just mythized because of the people's sheer discontent with the Avatar's reign?
The Judge of Honghai stared at the sculpture without any emotion. The Earth Empire is long gone, now only a few tiny holdouts still exist in the Si Wong desert. But that absolute nobody who killed the Avatar have singlehandedly changed the course of history, pages of history could have all been much different had Korra still been alive.
That figure has garnered both hatreds, and more disturbingly, admiration.
Many saw him as a vile villain who have taken their beloved Avatar.
Many saw him as a hero wishing to bring a long and unforgiving winter and change it into a rejuvenating spring.
No matter what others believe, in the eyes of the Judge of Honghai, the Avatar Killer is also a fool who abandoned his brother, forsaking the last familial bond for a plan that might not even work. A flawed human being like the Avatar Killer do not deserve to be respected, as he is not a spirit, which is why building statues of that man and making a deity out of it is a trickery in itself.
The general broke his attention from the ominous sculpture, arriving at the wall that displays armors and uniforms. Holding the lamp closer to the armor stand, the dim light reveals that this section is in need for some good spring clean. This part of the room has been neglected for too many years, no new armor has been added. Across the journey around the world, many sets of equipment across the four cultures have found themselves here. Most are armors are Earth Kingdom origins of course. Before finally settling down in Ba Sing Se, he has served a few warlords in the span of nearly three decades, other sets are also accumulated from the Water Tribe and the Fire Nation, and even a particular armor set from an Air Temple.
He arranged the armor from left to right on the wall, the oldest to newest. Beginning the collection is a rusty armor of Zaofu security force, excellent for Metalbenders who can manipulate parts of their armor as a weapon. It felt a lifetime away since he has last worn it. The helmet has formed a brownish rust across the sides. The once shiny and reflective metal is known consumed with an oxidated surface. He moved on after dusting the first piece lightly, passing the second set of armor hidden underneath a thick piece of cloth, which he doesn't dwell on. A few more outfits are simple infantry armors from various Earth Kingdom states, very diverse in the spectrum of green and brown colors. While many states retained the iconic conical helmet, some opted for a more renewed design such as goggles or leather clothing. These armors are testament of his quest to find opportunity, a reminder of his insignificant past. But their differences also symbolize the fracture and disunity of the massive Earth Kingdom. While strong and resilient, it is no use if those strength are directed at each other. Currently, not a day has passed by without blood being spilled.
He sighed, rearranging some pieces that looked out of place. Shuffling along, he encountered an old Fire Nation armor he owns. Its dark metallic appearances and pristine condition still sings the mastery of the Firebender blacksmith. The lack of any rust at all only solidifies the incredible metalworks of those who can control fire, able to craft such phenomenal protection that also has a high tolerance to heat. The helmet resembles that of a dragon. In fact, this dark lamellar suit almost resembles the scales of the flying beasts. He has certainly spent a fortune on this one. Even if he is not wearing it now, it is still a marvelous decoration. Thus, he called this set the Azure Dragon armor. Visiting the home of the Firebenders have certainly taught him the importance of resourcefulness. A small nation that lacks resources often innovate, finding cunning ways to work with the minimal materials that exist on the islands. They are also a very proud people, passionate about their accomplishments and aggressive in their endeavors. But if their excessive pride remains uncheck, a small spark of fire will once again try to imbalance the world, burning all in sight for an unfounded ambition. Aggression must be dealt with accordingly, by word or with a blade. Excessive passion and the obsession with honor will create chaos, forging a delusion to justify stealing and killing others.
He moved on again to the second last piece which is from the Northern Water Tribe. There, the frozen tundra is just as unbearable as the volcanic lands from the Fire Nation. The sharp coldness of the eternal winter easily humiliated the advanced metal protections, which only made the wearer colder. To combat this, he fashioned himself with a thick coat of buffalo-yak skin dyed in blue, which is readily available in their capital Agna Qel'a. Underneath is an armor made of animal bones, surprisingly very effective when he was attacked by a pack of hungry wolves. Without any earth to bend, this armor provided adequate protection against the claws his attackers. Below the hood is a pair of special sunglasses, containing small holes for the eyes to peer through. He named this suit the Patient Hunter, to remember a very iconic part of Water Tribe lifestyle. As an Earth Kingdom soldier who had low expectations of these so called 'ice barbarians', the adaptiveness and creativeness of the Waterbenders proved him wrong on so many levels. Their hunters can stalk prey from miles in a thick snowstorm and not be lost, truly an incredible people despite their simple origins. Perhaps one day he can visit the Southern Water Tribe, where he might find their famous 'wolf armor' with their aesthetically cultured helmet.
The last armor is the most interesting one. Not that it is functionally different, but some might mistake it as Earth Kingdom origins due to the similarities. But this particular set came from the most unlikely locations.
With his collection of weapons and armor grew, he thought such objects of war can only be found in three of the four bending nations. The exception being the Air Nomads, whose peaceful way of life is incompatible to war. Right now, it seems that most of the wisdom are carried on by the Air Acolytes, which to him is the real soul and intellectual heavy weights of the new Air Nomads.
During his journey, it took him days to physically climb up to the Northern Air Temple, a monastery closest to Ba Sing Se. With each step he took, it gets more difficult to breath at high altitudes.
At least the sweet taste of their butter tea makes it all worth it.
Being an Earthbender, he felt absolutely dumbfounded by the Air Nomad culture. Being opposite to the spiritually imbued monks, there are certainly many things a materialistic man like him would disagree with.
Their view on peace is one example. It's obviously easy for people who live in safe secluded temples to preach about love when the rest of the world is massacring each other in wars. But he does not dispel their unrealistic optimism in a better humanity. A peaceful existence they advocate will always be superior to the wanton savagery of bandits and pirates. In many ways, their detachment from worldly concerns is rather attractive even though such notion is considered complacency in his eyes. But what is most astounding is what he was found within a storeroom. It was more remote, far away from the main buildings. While the abbot advised him to mediate in a quiet area, the general back then reluctantly did so, knowing no amount of rest can find true inner peace. But what he did found was weapons and armor, the last kind of objects expected to be in an Air Temple. Fighting through his confusion, at first it was believed that these are Fire Nation or Earth Kingdom imports. But the excellent chainmail armor and rattan style shield combination dispels his hypothesis. The orange color armor scales are a huge giveaway that the original owners had some vague connection to the ancient Airbenders. Could it be that some members have fought wars against Earth Kingdom armies during the early stages of temples' construction? It is not impossible as cultural differences and land dispute can easily spark tensions. He imagined ancient Earth Kingdom soldiers trying to scale the mountains, fighting high altitude warriors that wears excellent chainmail armor. But because of the mountain's height, the inhabitants will naturally have a home field advantage, as their lungs are already adapted to the different partial pressure of the atmosphere. He does not know what name would be appropriate for this set.
The Air Nomads are certainly the most fascinating people, but that's also because there is so little that is known about them.
Their successors in today's world will never truly mimic what was destroyed by the Fire Nation. Yet, these monks and nuns provides valuable wisdom such as life and death, subjects that are not often discussed in the Earth Kingdom, where the focus is mainly on the material world. But because he is a member of this massive continent, past experiences in the war-torn land alone made him felt not all wisdom by the Air Nomads should be taken seriously.
For example, he does not believe that all life is sacred. Some humans worth less than animals. A tiny spider-fly caught in its own web does not seek to destroy families of humans in a senseless slaughter.
Violence is justified, and even necessary to combat the lowest of humanity. Peace can only be assured by force that is wielded in both wise and restraint manner. Absolute pacifism may be idealistic, but history has shown that being passive does not avoid destruction. The Air Nomads learnt that lesson the hard way.
He paused the cleaning to rest a bit. All these armors made a fine collection, maybe he can add more in the future if the opportunity permits him. Frankly, he only sought after highly valuable armors that are culturally significant. He can fight bandits every day, but most of them are wearing ragged clothing or unsharpened weapons. Luckily, his paintings do not need to be taken from his opponents. The general has complete free reign with the inkbrush, creating another masterpiece after a battle.
The paintings have little dust, even allowing some moments for him to glamour at the more outstanding arts. There are places such as random walled towns or a natural part of the Earth Kingdom such as cliffs and canyons around Ba Sing Se. He has been there himself, so many memories have filled this side of the room. One of the artworks depicts giant dome-like structures made of metal. Designed to resemble multiple lotus flowers, that is Zaofu, the home of the metal clan and the most important members of the Beifong family.
"Ah, such beauty," the general can't help but reminiscent at the small city state, which itself is an art too. The city of Zaofu is a marvel to look at. But beyond the advance monorails and technology, he credits that place for instilling his own belief in reaching one's full potential. Since then, he also encouraged others to do the same. Anyone who lives in Zaofu are driven to develop their own individual pursuits. It is a city that values progress, advancement and innovations. Creativity overflows in many fields, and arts is also one of them. But despite all that advantage, there are still aspects he dislikes. During his time there studying the many artistic expressions, he felt the local culture is entirely alien to the rest of the Earth Kingdom. Not that its inherently a bad thing, as the Earth Kingdom is full of diverse groups. But Zaofu certainly stands out the most. Many progresses made seems to have eliminated the grassroot resemblance of Earth Kingdom culture. They dressed so differently, act differently. They don't even use chopsticks!
But those are just minor issues, ones that are not too significant for him to care. The biggest problem he sees with their innovation is in art. As an artist himself, he enjoyed the many different artistic expressions. Aside from the familiar Earth Kingdom's inkbrush paintings, he also indulges in the skillful patterns of Water Tribe baleen basketry. Regardless of which nation, he can see the heart and soul of the artist. But what he saw in Zaofu is something he will never accept. A misguided fool with awful hairstyle dares to assert that clumps of twisted and deformed metal is art. Such heresy. To him, art is supposed to mean something. But that Metalbending sculpture derives meaning from his own obscurity and hubris. Those ugly objects are not only meaningless, but it also failed to fulfill the very basic of art, which is beauty.
The Judge of Honghai sighed. "When will I lay my eyes on you again, Zaofu."
Could it be years? Decades? Never? He will not know. Being a general in Ba Sing Se meant not much free time to travel. But who knows, maybe some miracle would befall and allow him to venture across the continent once more.
He then shifted attention to the piece dedicated to his greatest military achievement, the Battle of Honghai. Looking at those upside-down temples, he is reminded as to how vulnerable the Western Monastery is compared to the other three. Instead of building on a tall mountain, whoever made this temple are clearly too naive. But then again, the inhabitants are monks, people who try to sever themselves from earthly attachments, and in his opinion, also out of touch with realistic human nature.
He sighed lengthily. So many men were lost during that chapter of his career, and for what? A harpoon made of whale bones.
Thieves do not need to be killed if they chose not to rob in the first place. But if the circumstances force us to inflict harm back to the aggressors, then there will obviously be heavy sacrifices. Although this painting depicts the Western Air Temple, the real battle took place on a beach nearby. It is where the pirate lord Anguta tried to land his cutthroats and plunder the monastery. Had they succeeded, the nuns in the temple would all have been...
The general let out a wheezing chuckle, a harrowing sound from his deformed lungs. He couldn't control his humor.
Those pathetic insects from the sea failed miserably. Instead of wealth and slaves, Anguta's warband tasted cold steel followed by a blackening sky of piercing arrows and smashing boulders. It was glorious, he savored the agonizing screams, all working together to form a wonder symphony. His eyes feasted on the burning ships and catamarans. The world was painted with crimson. It was delightful. What a great masterpiece!
"If only the nuns themselves would see this victory the same way I did," he lamented on the reaction of the Western Air Temple. Initially, the Bingmayong were slightly offended that their methods were criticized. But in hindsight, it is understandable that the nuns would react in fear of their saviors, especially since one of them marched back to the temple with the lower half of his body drenched in red. Perhaps he was too caught up in the festive mood of successfully defended the temple and forgot to return in a more dignified manner.
"What's so funny?" a voice casually asked.
The Judge of Honghai instantly lift up his head and grabbed the guandao resting nearby. The majority of the room are still dark, whatever is hiding here is certainly concealing itself in the unilluminated parts. He tried to locate the source of the voice, but it was difficult. As a soldier who have set foot on the battlefield many times, his reaction has hardened. Even the smallest move not within anticipation upsets him tremendously. It's like an opponent playing with a Pai Sho tiles that is not visible, a serious threat.
"Oh? I see that your senses are dulling," the mysterious voice expressed with intrigue. "To think that our esteemed hero cannot even locate a mere mouse in his room. How embarrassing. I thought an accomplished general who have studied the arts of war can easily pinpoint his enemy's next move."
This time, the general is prepared. He traced the voice to one of the figures in the line of armors, now noticing that there is another one not there before. But the familiarity of this intruder's sound also lowered his guard, changing his mood from defensive to annoyance.
He is aware what this impolite visitor is referring to. A skillful warrior can develop their awareness of the surrounding, feeling a movement or attack from behind and counter it. It is a universal skill. Depending on the situation, renown Earthbenders can sense the ground's vibration, and Airbenders can detect sudden movement of air and quickly evade a surprise attack. Non-benders can also master this skill, but extremely difficult without having an affinity with the substance around them.
"That rat should also show himself, now that the childish game is over!" The general pointed his glaive at the figure slowly emerging from darkness. The latter did not feel concerned, casually went to the desk and sat down as if the owner was him all along.
These types of people are stealthy, trained from a young age to hide their presence easily. They can disguise themselves as daily citizens, watching silently while their prey cloak themselves with a veil of false safety. The fact that a bender like the general failed to detect this man's aura sets a very dangerous precedence. It is a well-known fact that the likes of them would only reveal themselves in their own accord.
It's strange, considering that the same Avatar who inspired the two brown haired girls also create these self-serving sentinels. Truly a weird pair of contradicting siblings.
"Don't be so serious, it's just a routine checkup on your workplace." The man with long green robe said in a smooth tone, brushing the beard underneath that iconic metal helmet. At the same time, the general noticed his small porcelain vail in that person's hand. The figure seems to be savoring the smell, as it is a perfume container, produced from an abbey of nuns in the United Republic. It is just a souvenir.
The Judge of Honghai groaned. It's unfortunate that this man is technically his superior. Only General Liu, head of the council of five can face this character in equal footing. But gathering intelligence is also what made these men in conical helm useful. Which is why he is tolerating this figure for always showing up unannounced.
"What else is there to report for this month? I am certain your eyes and ears are more aware of what is outside Ba Sing Se's walls than me." The general muttered tiredly. This little conference is bothersome, repetitive and maybe a little unnecessary. "Our border remains secure from the other states. Jian Sin and Siaw Jong are still engulfed in their pointless bloodbath. The other warlords near the border are also busy with their own endeavors. The only threat I see are lowly bandits who have the audacity to cross into our lands."
"And the subservient cult known as the Acolytes of San Bao," the bothersome visitor added.
"Yes...them as well."
The general may not know as much about that fanatical group as these secret agents, but he is aware of the cruelty they are capable of. During his initial journey around the Earth Kingdom, he has heard snippets of news, claiming that some bandits are targeting people of 'impure breed'. At first, he simply dismissed them as just another group of bandits exercising their senseless destruction. But hearing faint names of 'San Bao' all around the continent have inevitably raised his nonexistent eyebrows. And that is his perception many years ago. Now it seems that they have found a safe haven in the United Republic and trying to propagate their influence everywhere.
While Tenzin's Air Nomads are challenging them intellectually, there are some rumors that these cultists are raiding villages and towns. It has been much more prevalent recently. But because of the common occurrence of bandit army attacks, most simply blended the Acolytes as simply just another dangerous group. Warlords are more interested in keeping each other at bay than actually addressing the bandit problems. He has seen it all, especially Jian Sin and Siaw Jong. If those two were not at each other's throat, they might have prevented the army of White Sparrows from entering Ba Sing Se.
"I know, my subordinates have told me everything," the middle-aged man at the desk commended. Of course, almost everyone within the walls is mostly ignorant of the carnage and horror outside. But this man isn't. Scheming and plotting often involves spilling blood. The gentleman with a conical helm has orchestrated many plans in the shadow, away from the public eye. In this city, he sees all and hears all. "As usual, our hero the Tortoise and his elite Bingmayong have once again successfully apprehended those unruly daofei. Prefect Bao may be slow in gathering the evidence and witnesses, but he is getting there, only a few more to go. The surviving families will be given an answer, but they must be patient. You must be patient. It's not often we have such mass influx of bandits standing trial before, right?"
The Judge of Honghai gripped his fist. "In the name of her grace Lady Tienhai, those White Sparrows do not even deserve to stand trial! Giving them the right to defend themselves is an insult to the surviving families of that raided village."
"No, no, no," the inspector doubled down. "I told you many times before, the law must always come first. What happens in battle is the concerns of you soldiers, I couldn't care less about a few insects dying by your men. But everything within Ba Sing Se's border must be subjected to its jurisdiction, including following the correct protocols in sentencing subversive elements. As someone who is called the Judge of Honghai, you should know this better than I. But don't worry, after the very real Judge, prefect Bao, finishes with the trials, all daofei sentenced to death will be in your hands."
Hearing this, the ironclad man is appeased. Since they captured hundreds from the last battle, surely most of them would be sentenced for harming innocent villagers. The implications are very clear, sometimes soldiers would act as executors.
"In regard to the Acolytes, I have none to report," said the ironclad general. "Dealing with enemies inside the walls under the shadow are works belonging to you people. Come to me and the other generals if you need some daylight slaying done." As he turned to the exit to leave, the unwanted guest stopped him.
"There is another task I want you to do," said the occupier at the desk.
"No, you have many sons you can use, each one of them is better at gathering intelligence than dear old me," sneered the general. At this point, he cannot help but to think of something that can get this uninvited guest out of the room. Having this cultural guardian here might be a danger to his collection of armor and weapons. But when the discussion shifts to a particular group of people, he became interested.
"I want you to be of use, help us gather more information through the words of those nomads, the same ones whom you have met when the last of those White Sparrows are finally captured. A few little birds told me about that they have prior experiences with the Acolytes. All you need to do is walk into their camp and talk."
The Judge of Honghai is fully aware of the vast network of intelligence built across the world, all run by men with long dark robes and conical helmet. And the one designed it is no doubt this man in his home, an alchemist to a sophisticated and nearly untouchable organization that prizes information like gold. But their notorious reputation often warrants uncooperative dealings. Perhaps the general's own prior interaction with the nomads made him a good candidate.
"Why do I need to do as you say?" the general challenged. "I lead troops, not serving as a spy. You know me very well. I don't bow to rulers, not even Kings."
"Of course, but we don't know everything about you," the uninvited guest reminded. "Besides, this is a request from the top, the very top."
This placed the ironclad general on guard, there some things people should not know about him, not yet at least. His visitor stood up from the desk, leisurely heading in the second armor set concealed beneath a piece of cloth. "Shortly after the death of the Avatar and her killer, a legend has spawned about a mysterious warrior fighting random bandits around the continent, saving towns and villages alone while wiping out large swarths of brigands singlehandedly. Every time he does so, he would leave a trail of blood and setting bandit dens to ablaze. There was even one time, a river run red for days, but the village nearby certainly prefer peace over thirst."
The general in question didn't say anything, for the angry expression of steel masks his true intentions. The past is something he does not wish to discuss, too much pain and suffering, talking about it will only imbue despair into more people. Which is why he is selective about sharing, and even then, few people on this world truly knows everything.
But the organization led by this gentleman desires to see all, hear all and know all. Information can be vital if they fear a general may act rebelliously. Which is why these secret police are known to keep at least some record on everyone living in the city. Even visitors who are living here temporarily.
"So much mystery can be unraveled for a tortoise, I wonder, what is hidden underneath its thick shell." Just as the man under the conical helm extend a hand to remove the cloth of the mysterious armor stand, he felt something thrown between his face and the armor.
The giant blade was inches away from hitting the skull, which would have been fatal. It is now deeply imbedded into the wall, lodged into the stone material. It was a warning. Should the bothersome visitor act without respect, then the Judge of Honghai will not be so restrained either.
"Refrain from touching my belongings," the general advised on behalf of this man's life. "Next time, my hands will not slip. People like you may be above the law in Ba Sing Se, but the moral law forbids treating the belonging of others as your own. You would be wise to listen. Failure to adhere will make you a hypocrite to the very stability and order you stand for. Did you and fellow sons very think the rest of us have forgotten the failures of your predecessors? Even if you are on our side, and betrayed your former master to do so, don't think you will have our respect. The likes of you are nothing more but a failed creation, a dysfunctional clay pot which your creator would love to throw it at the ground." He marches pass the surprised visitor, ripping out the guandao and calmly walks out of the room. These men are known to be stubborn, upholding any draconian law seriously. But they do have weaknesses in their identity, the history. Past records have shown that anyone who trust in these men in darkish robe is just begging to be maimed by a double-edged sword. Their services will fail you at the end, for there is no true loyalty but only self-interest, imbued with this organization's will to survive through turmoil and change of leadership. They are also not reliable in his own opinion. If they can betray their old master, then they can betray the new one as well. "Just for the record, I am doing this on my own accord."
The door shut quietly, leaving the uninvited guest standing still on the spot. He just stood there, compelled to not reveal what is underneath. What is the missing piece of this puzzle? Not much is known about the Judge of Honghai's past, but maybe somethings are meant to be left unknown.
"An unsightly clay pot?" the man contemplated deeply. Should the founder of this organization still walk the earth, then she will not hesitate in destroying them all.
...
Inside the tank, not much has occurred, he sipped some tea to kill time during the short journey across the agrarian zone. Aside from the external trotting of escort cavalry, the other noise is earth being moved around the machine.
It is much more comforting than the blazing heat generated by a steam engine. While many Earth Kingdom states have adapted the widely used mecha tanks, a monstrosity invented by Hiroshi Sato, there are still many who retained the older war machines that caters to a bender's ability.
Watching Meng Tian and the tank crew operating the vehicle with their bending is a sight to behold, a reminder that bending function as gears that move their daily life, and in war. Although many have come to rely on technologies that enhances a non-bender's combat prowess, to him, those are insignificant when compared to power of bending itself.
Old arts may be dying or neglected, but some will live on forever.
The wheels of the slinky tank grinded to a halt, it seems that the trip is over. Meng Tian opened up a side hatch, allowing the general to step out first. They arrived on a small hill that overlooks a plain field bordering a massive body of water. This is specifically chosen as it lacks farmlands that are often seen near the monorails. According to the map, even the nearest settlement is just a small village near the infamous
"We are here general," the lead cavalryman guided his armored ostrich-horse near the Judge of Honghai. He pointed at a faraway distance where trails of smoke are visible. "Over there lies the camp of those nomads. Some of General Liu's Terra Team have been stationed here to keep a close eye, I have made a detour, they said nothing out of the ordinary has been observed."
The general does not know how to feel about this information. For one second, he thought those smoke trails are coming from a burning village. Although it is irrational to believe it, as they are currently within Ba Sing Se's wall, a lifetime of fighting has made...too wary.
Members of the Terra Team is Ba Sing Se's elite Earthbenders, their platoon is deployed in the direst need to preserve the city's safety. Their presence here meant whoever they are guarding must not be trifled with.
The general pulled out a monocular and look towards a large camp of yurt tents, a style he is not familiar with. He obviously has countless questions about these Kheshigs Airbenders. Upon seeing the people, the great amount of sky bison in their rank initially made him conclude they are monks from the temples.
The brown fur deels, lamellar armor, and sharp scimitars instantly dispelled such assumptions. The most surprising is that only some of them can bend air, a skill that aside from the monks, not many will have. If it wasn't for that giant tornado made of sand that day, he and his men would not have noticed the battle that is concealed by giant sand dunes. He still wondered, was the tornado and sandstorm natural or manmade?
"These people have sky bisons and no permanent dwellings boss," Meng Tian narrowed his foggy eyes. "Huh, so these were the guys we met, do they very bend air? I thought only the vegetarians at the temples do all of that." During the last battle they had to rescue the refugees, Meng Tian's visual observations are limited to what the tank can see, which is why the aging captain remains skeptical about some details during the battle. "Hmm, that actually kind of make sense now. They are Airbenders, and they are nomads. That makes them Air...Nomads?"
"I thought that too, whoever is over there in that camp must be an interesting group of people, one that sprung out of nowhere, and may have a history with the cult of San Bao." the Judge of Honghai said to induce some more serious tone into the conversation. Meng Tian nodded understandably; the ironclad warrior isn't sure if the captain even comprehends what was said. It seems that the nomad part of the Air Nomads has become much more literal.
"Why are they here, why did they not head to the Lower Ring immediately?" The Judge of Honghai asked the escort leader.
"Two reasons general, these outsiders wish to live in an area like here, able to sustain themselves with hunting." The cavalryman seemed hesitant to reveal the next reason. The general noticed, wondering what is preventing his soldier to act so nervously.
"Major Qibi Heli, what is the matter?" asked the Judge of Honghai. He had known this person for a while, a man who traveled from central Earth Kingdom lands where the environment is dry and harsh. Only the strong ever survives there, even fewer can make it to Ba Sing Se on foot.
Being an expert in ostrich horse riding and ferocious in combat, Qibi Heli is a skilled warrior and leader for his own smaller unit. Aside from that, he is a member of the cavalry, a section of the Bingmayong that delivers devastating shock tactics, with each member that can take down fifty bandits easily. They are skilled Earthbenders equipped with excellent lamellar armor that is much thicker than the infantry's cord and plaque suit. Helmets are constructed using arched metal plates, joined together with leather laces. Those thick plate pauldrons and lamellar aventail meant it is impervious to most normal weapons. The bowl of the helmet even has a pheasant feather for decoration, telling the bandits of their equipment superiority. Even the ostrich-horse itself is heavily armed to the teeth. Quite literally.
Now what could make this veteran from central Earth Kingdom so afraid? If he does not kill a bandit with a boulder, then Qibi Heli will use his cavalry blade to slice his opponents in half. What enemy can even hope to penetrate his thick armor and kill him?
"General, I do not think it would be safe to travel to the Kheshig's dwelling," Qibi Heli advised. "Reports circulate that some of its members are infected with a disease, making even their strongest warriors weak and bedridden."
Of course. Even with the thickest armor and sharpest blade, the most powerful warrior is still nothing against an invisible plague. A prolific illness spares no one, young or old, weak or strong. Throughout history, entire armies would be defeated not by the weapons of their enemies, but by ill conditions in the camp where the troops slowly dwindle in numbers. Being manifested by something you can't fight with swords and shields is a terrifying experience. Training and equipment are rendered useless. Qibi Heli's own painful past meant this man values such fact more than anyone else.
The general contemplated. If there is indeed a plague slowly spreading amongst those tribesmen, then the secret service would have notified him. Even if this illness does not appear to be transmissible, Qibi Heli still advise against being in close proximity with the nomads.
Ignoring the major's wishes, he went back into the tank and return with a small sack that has something in it, then start walking down the hill, marching through the tall grass to the encampment. "You all stay here," he orders the tank crew and the cavalry escort team. "I would like to pay these outsiders a visit."
Meng Tian laughed as Qibi Heli expressed his fears. "Aren't we all technically outsiders?" the old man chuckled with his crooked teeth. "Pretty sure most of us is not born in Ba Sing Se"
That is a good point. Most members of the Bingmayong are recruited from men who have lost everything, many of them came from various backgrounds. Plenty are farmers, outcasts, and victims of wars. They want to take it all back and enact their frustration against those who have wronged them.
...
The camp has grown quiet across these few weeks. With not much to do, Batu has worked hard to improve the many skills that could make him a fine warrior, mainly bending and archery. A disadvantage is certainly the boy's stubby height. It's absolutely essential for a Kheshig to master the composite bow, a weapon so ingrained in their lifestyle, to hunt for food and defend themselves.
He pulled back on the string, feeling the stretch of the new composite bow applying force on his arm muscle. It's hard to maintain grip, the skin of his fingers is strangled by the rough cord. Upon releasing, the arrow dashed at a tree trunk painted with a red large circle. It missed the spot by few inches, plunging into the roots.
"Don't worry, you are getting there," Sarangerel patted Batu's back. She then demonstrated the correct posture when using the bow. Neck and shoulders are relaxed, lowering the latter as she draws an arrow and equipped it with the bow. Her head remain in a neutral position, looking straight at the target and taking a deep breath. She assessed the rise and fall of her shoulders. Batu believes she is visualizing the projectile trail from which the arrow is shot from. Just as Sarangerel exhaled one breath, she let go and the arrow pierced into the target center. "You got that?" Sarangerel asked.
Batu nodded but doubt he can perfectly replicate the stance perfectly. Although the accuracy of his bow still needs refinement, he has experienced improvements on Airbending. Propelling himself to a building feels much doable than before.
"Hey Batu look, who is that?" Batu turned his head to where his sister is pointing, noticing a heavily armored man holding onto a sack. There is no question, it's the sedentary warrior general, the Judge of Honghai. The heavy clanking sound of armor made it very obvious. But what he doing here?
...
The camp of the Kheshig is more organized than he has expected, the general thought. Tents are arranged to ensure a healthy amount of distance between each other, allowing for privacy and keeping an adequate amount of walkable space. Or maybe they thought this can improve their health.
All around are people in brown fur clothing working their days away. Many have rounder faces, and grayish eyes. These people are not peasants, they do not farm and do not depend on a fixed piece of land to sustain them. No, these are real nomadic people inside their walls, a bunch of hunters and herders, with a completely different way of life than the citizens of all walled cities.
In the past, the Earth Kingdom has fought numerous wars against the various nomadic tribes. Although the settled people possess larger armies, with iron weapons and crossbows that can devastate large groups of enemies, they are still futile against the speedy tactics of horseback archery. The wars back then were bloody, and the nomadic people were a huge thorn to early Earth Kingdom civilizations. Yet, here is a tribe of nomad who managed to go pass a wall without storming it to pieces. Here he is, walking casually into their temporary home unopposed. Here he is, almost walking into a group of children playing chase. It's convenient that he can sense their running through the ground's vibration.
It's idealistic to believe in certain things that are good for the world. He never entertains that, for he believes that there is no inner peace. The metal hand will forever remain stained with blood, and it will be drench in even more. But walking through this place does feel rather, calming.
He walked pass the occasional herdsman who are carrying what appears to be fur and cheese. Ignoring the curious glances, walking into this encampment without meeting any guards meant the leader must have lowered the sentries. It puts up a more appropriate appearance, after all, they are in Ba Sing Se, someone else's turf. Their leader is wise to not stir up unneeded trouble. Likewise, the garrison in the outer walls is also keen to maintain a cordial relationship with the city's cultural guardians. Albeit he himself doesn't have favorable relations with those men in darkish robes.
He paused momentarily to marvel at the sky bisons. They are clearly rare creatures that dwells the world, one of the four original benders.
Almost exclusively used by Tenzin's Air Nomads as companions, he is surprised that these people also possess such magnificent creatures. They are much larger than any livestock, grazing away the nearby pasture and drinking from the reservoirs. But his focus was broken by a sequence of coughing sound.
"Walk slowly Khenbish, you are getting well enough to wall, but be careful or else you will fall. The herbs may take their effect, but it will take a while to recover fully." Ganbataar advised. "Those young lads will take care of the bisons, so don't overdo it, or your body will fail before mine does."
The general saw a middle-aged man with thick mustache, wearing a suit of lamellar and leather. On his back is a bow and scimitar. Judging by the face and relatively tough muscles, this man must be a seasoned warrior in their tribe. Accompanying him is a shorter and thinner fellow. It seems whatever illness these people have gone through is gladly not infectious, but those who will cough uncontrollably.
The one named Khenbish have blackened eyes and sharp jawlines, most likely from the tremendous loss of sleep.
His stare did not go unnoticed. Ganbatar's hands instinctively reached for the weapon behind his back upon seeing a soldier. The other man stopped his rash friend from causing any unrepairable damage. When the realization that this man is the Judge of Honghai, both understand its implications.
"Are you here to meet our leader?" Khenbish asked weakly.
The general simply nodded, afraid that verbal exchange may further damage this man's health. After explaining the purpose of this visit, the warrior named Ganbataar escorted him to a yurt tent somewhere else in the camp. It looks exactly the same except for some altered decorations or design pattern. But he cannot help but glance at the giant grey creature that is resting near it.
"Is that also a sky bison?" The general did not receive a response from the nomad warrior. The guard simply told him that the leader is inside this unguarded tent.
Ganbatar stood outside as the general opened the tent's entrance. Inside is completely dark, until a small spark of fire can be seen from the far side of the room.
Click!
A fire appears to have been started. It grew the surrounding is bright enough for the eyes.
"I dislike uninvited guests, but I am at least have been expecting you, Judge of Honghai." Temujin said. "I wonder which wind of the Eternal Sky sent you to my humble tent." The Khan moved center where a small table and two floor mattresses can be seen. There is food and drinks already prepared, and a boardgame made of shagai bones is also here to keep them preoccupied. He directed the general also be seated, the two sat on opposite ends, not speaking anything until the Khan poured some fermented milk for both of them. "I must thank you for your assistance that other day," Temujin started. "My warriors and the bisons were too sick, too weak, and too poisoned to fight those renegades alone. Had you or your men do not pass by our people would been harmed by those rotten thieves."
The general looked at the beverage, hesitant to drink, suspicious at the nomads. The content is so potent that he cannot see the bottom of the cup. Such is the drink enjoyed by the nomadic people. Without wheat of barley, they can only brew alcohol with the most available resource, the milk of their animals. It doesn't take a genius to know that the temple monks would definitely disapprove such treatment of a sky bison.
Gulp!
The conversation is firstly dominated by the White Sparrow bandit incident weeks ago. Unlike most Ba Sing Se's upper class, the nomad charged directly into the main issue. No flattery and the absence of subtle meaning in the words is a refreshing change. The general played the board game. Unlike the elegant Pai Sho game, he is fiddling with animals' bones and trying to knock the opponent's pieces out. It was a difficult rule to grasp, but entertaining, nonetheless.
"I was simply doing my job, that is all. The White Sparrows have entered our borders and pillaged a village, we almost lost trail of them if it wasn't for your people's action." He needs to think of a way to discuss about the Acolytes of San Bao, but that may inevitably lead to opening old wounds in these people. While he understands that this is an official meeting between the garrison and the tribesmen, deep down there is a strong will to preserve human fragility. It's easy to discuss about the painful memories of other without experiencing it yourself, which is why he wish to establish a cordial relationship with their leader first.
"Is that so?" Temujin brushed his beard. "Your voice sounds...unnatural." Anyone who has heard the rather mechanical and harrow tone of the general's speech would be at least slightly confused. "Don't you want to take that mask off?"
The Judge of Honghai shook his head.
The Khan didn't waste time on this trivial matter. "As for those low lives, I hope the laws of you sedentary people do not waste time before boiling them in cauldrons. Judges? Witnesses? The only people I see are useful in addressing the banditry problems are the executioners."
The Judge of Honghai nodded once. He is not naive about boiling criminals in oil. While many might view this punishment as archaic, it is nothing compared to the infamous 'wheel of punishment'. Its excessive notoriety even once almost killed an Avatar. But the bluntly speech of this older nomad also reveals something about his personality, which is useful for the upcoming discussion about the nefarious bending cult. It's lucky he brought the right gift to the right person.
"Rest assured, prefect Bao from the Kaifeng courthouse will issue punishment in accordance to their crime, as for the boiling caldrons, I'm afraid I cannot guarantee that. But I would like to firstly apologize for intruding into your home unannounced," the general said. "I would not dare to enter a host's home without bearing a gift."
"Oh?" Temujin looked intrigued. The general holds a small sack and gives it to the Khan. The latter opened it and made bright smile, the exact reaction the Judge of Honghai wanted.
The Khan then made a pleased laughter. "I am most flattered; you do need to come to me with something so lavish."
It wasn't gold, silver or jade. The object inside the sack is the head of the fallen bandit leader named Boque, the same one who initially tried to attack the Kheshig's caravan. This is such an old trick in the book, the enemy of my enemy is a friend. Not only does this gesture aim to eliminate some suspicion between both sides, but it also helps foster potential new allies with the city.
"The White Sparrow bandits harmed the people within our borders, frankly, killing this renegade is a pity. For his tremendous crime, he should have faced the justice from the people." Although the general is aware that Boque is only one of responsible, other major leaders have already been killed by him. So, the only ones present at the trial would be minor instigators who survived the earlier Bingmayong onslaught.
"Why waste time?" Temujin asked. "People who committed crime against your people should be boiled in cauldron immediately." The Khan then devoured a whole cup of fermented milk.
At this point, the general noticed the plate of meat and cheese for them both. There are only two knives as utensils, not too alien, but no chopsticks unfortunately. Without too much thinking, he also grabbed a slice of cheese and shove it through his metal mask.
It was delicious. In a short span of a few seconds, he devoured a good portion. "Well, your people may operate differently. But Ba Sing Se do have rules to follow, trying to maintain harmony between all is what we settled people needs to survive. But I agree, there are times when we are spending too much unnecessary effort in sentencing a murderer. Past history has shown that certain individuals, if allowed alive, will only be go on to harm more innocent lives."
The Khan couldn't agree more. "You have a very pragmatic perspective, as expected of the one who won the Battle of Honghai. Sometimes, taking a life to save more is better to demonstrate naive mercy." He pours another round of fermented milk into his cup. "Perhaps that is what young people do not understand, they folly themselves with a false notion of honor and allowing what may kill them to live. My people...had I done something in the past differently, maybe they wouldn't have been driven to this state."
Temujin's face consorted into a regretful look. Even though there is a trail of steam generated from the drink in his hand, the general can pick up the details despite the obscuring view. He may be a military commander, but he is also an artist, albeit none of his paintings consists of people. "The enemies of your kin, would you mind telling me more?" This question can be dangerous, as he immediately recognizes the shock in the host's face "This world is full of immorality, but a man like me only have simple wishes, and painting is one of it."
What the general meant by painting is never specifically clarified. But Temujin no longer has that welcoming smile before. Heavy contemplation is all over his now serious demeanor. "I know you are sent by someone, someone who is powerful in Ba Sing Se's upper chambers." Temujin correctly deducted. "But what are you here for? What are you personally benefitting from this exchange?"
The general leaned forwards. "I just want to know more about my enemies, and maybe more about myself. Who knows, it might help with me paint art on my wall." He invoked the ancient philosophical teachings, when military strategies must be perfected like art. "Help me know more about your enemies, and I will make sure there is more of their blood in the ocean."
The Khan grinned. The general got what he wanted, cooperative people. Through this little meeting, the intelligence officers will obtain more information to better combat the cultists in the shadow. As for himself, he will be more mentally motivated to paint another artwork. He doesn't know where or when it will take place, but it might eventually happen. First, he himself must be motivated, then it will be his subordinates.
...
Days have gone by quickly. Mayumi made all the arrangements needed with Grandma Jin and arrived in front of the siheyuan. She would still work at the eatery, but the schedule would be much busier. Thankfully, the White Scholar have accepted the offer.
On her way here, she spotted multiple notice boards in the city where Shan's essay is displayed. It was an interesting read, quite difficult to assess with all the crowd trying to improve upon what was already written. The reward is a handsome amount of gold, attracting scholars and peasants alike. Whatever Shan is thinking with this ludicrous idea, she suspects he is either too prideful, or too confident that there truly is no one capable enough to improve his works.
As expected, she even noticed Te Gaogui's father, trying to take a good look at Shan's essay. There was no sign of the noble lady, unlike Lord Te, she already given up and accepted defeat. The middle-aged man tried to force his way through the crowd, being pushed around by others just to desperately prove his daughter's legitimacy.
It was pitiful. Shan clearly exploited Lord Te's love for his daughter, putting the old man in a position that voluntarily tramples dignity. It was all designed to publicly shame the Te clan. If the commotion happened at the Keju ceremony disrepute Lord Te, then from now on, all the aristocracy would be singing about this misconduct.
An old senile father challenging the Keju result in futile. His love for his only daughter exceeded rationality, prompting him to lower himself akin to a peasant.
Mayumi gripped her hands tightly. Shan wanted this to happen. Was it revenge for Lord Te's insult in the Royal Palace? At first, she thought so. But Shan could be motivated by something bigger. Obviously, his essay does reveal peculiar views on governance and social values. He clearly has a more legalistic view on how a ruler should conduct themselves. A strong adherence to the law is what sets a cautious precedence that might carry over into Satchiko's tutoring. The older sister cannot help but fret that her sister may end up being taught with healthy strictness. Deep down, she also feels ashamed to be working for someone who attacks family values.
The doors creaked open with a sound that went unrestraint on her delicate ears. It makes the Kyoshi Warrior in apron wishing to tear it down and replace it anew. In the center of the doorway stood the gentleman himself, the Zhuangyuan in this year's Keju exam. Being the top graduate, the White Scholar enjoys an unparalleled prestige. After challenging the head of the Te clan, he feels unstoppable, at least in the world of intrigue amongst the Upper Ring. Sure, someone using brute force can punch him in the face easily. But what then? This man will eventually be a high ranking official with his Keju title, rash actions against Shan would only spell trouble in the future.
"I see that you have arrived in accordance with the schedule," Shan said. Up until now, she rarely sees anything else besides that 'neutral' looking face. So far, Mayumi has a limited knowledge on his personality, and being late on the first day of work would obviously create a bad impression.
Unsure what to say, she simply bowed slightly. Then, Shan turned back to the courtyard, she followed him through the doorway, taking a moment to lift her foot over the wooden plank on the floor which separates the residence and the outside world. As usual, there is an uncomfortable amount of silence in the yard. Too quiet for her liking. But then again, it is in a scholar's best interest to maintain a good study environment without unneeded disturbances.
Yet, Mayumi's instincts from all the early age training demands an explanation. Everything in this siheyuan appears too normal, everything except for one aspect.
"Young master Shan, I hope you don't mind me asking, but where is everyone else?" Mayumi instantly noticed when Shan turned his head back with cold glare. Those narrowing and piercing eyes is enough for her to not ask any question from now.
She kept following him until they arrived at the western chamber. Gradually, the young man wearing white opened the door with an old key. The dusty lock appeared to have never been opened until now. They both stepped into the room full of cobwebs and gathered dust. The place is almost empty, a broken table and chairs missing legs. The light is also rather dim, clearly as a result of this building's physical position that benefits the little from sunlight.
"This is the first rule, here will be your living quarters, you may use it to your liking," Shan stated. She glanced around the abandoned room. It has seen better days. Based on the messy arrangements, it implies that Shan is not the first owner of this courtyard house. If he has actually cared about the home, then it would have been more...repaired.
There is a place at the corner where she can place belongings. Luckily, an old broomstick leaning on the wall can used to clean up the surface. But as it made contact, she broke the stick in half. Looking at the material's quality, this place must be very old.
Shan stepped out of the room. "Follow," he demanded. This time, they ventured into the owner's chamber, the northern side of the courtyard opposite to the residence's entrance. Unlike the western chamber, this is Shan's personal living quarters. Just by looking at the furbished double door and windows itself shows a greater importance. There is even small set of stone stairs they must climb, once again elevating Shan as the owner here.
The scholar briefly showed her the space. It was hard not to gawk at everything on sight. It seems that Shan's excellent reputation as a renowned scholar does not only exist within political science and art. She previously caught a glimpse of all the paper umbrellas hanging on the wall. If a high-class lady manages to possess even one is enough to spark envy from others. But for her, it matters little compared to what is being displayed now.
The room is divided into two halves. On the left side, which is where she is focusing the most, appears to be a working space, a sort of office if one were to describe it. A well-crafted antique wooden table and chair marked the center. From the appearance alone she can notice its expensiveness, the furniture is made of pure rosewood, a material only the wealthy would dare spent on. The carvings show symbols of the four-element printed on the top respectively. Parts of the legs even resembles clouds, with its curving and round shapes that almost resemble the real thing.
But she is more drawn to what is produced using this furniture. A scholar's craft can involve many pursuits in high society. Shan seems to have mastered plenty. The walls are filled with the best assortment of inkbrush paintings, the poems, and calligraphy. All hang on the walls, existing in harmony with each other. From these achievements, there is none lacking in skills and creativity than the other. But all follows the same traditional principles passed down old Earth Kingdom cultures, mainly the ones propagated by the city itself.
"As you may have already been aware, I do not appreciate when my works are being tarnished," Shan warned. "My clients would not be pleased if their request has an extra spill of ink from someone uncultured. Which is why I would understand if you steer clear from my projects." He is a man with great pride in his ability, but very territorial as well.
Mayumi looked at an unfinished calligraphy on Shan's desk, making a mental note on the ink container to ensure no accidental spills. While she is at it, the words on the new calligraphy captivated the Kyoshi Warrior's attention. The inscriptions are incomplete, but the individual syllables alone can be considered art in their own right, a concise style just like the ink paintings. A scholar's defining skill is their ability to write. But writing itself is also a combination of visual art and interpretation of the literary meaning. Calligraphy is sheer life experienced through energy in motion that is registered as traces on the paper, with time and rhythm in shifting space its main ingredients. It is a highly esteemed skill, and she is impressed that a single worthless paper can be turned into a highly sought after artwork.
After reluctantly turning away from this end of the home, they ventured to the right, which is his resting place. Here are his more personal belongs. The bed is positioned away from the window in respect to the concept of Feng Shui. Around it lies some antique closest. She instantly noticed that green silk gown issued by Xuan Zang. It is displayed on a wooden dummy, and on its head is that very important futou government official hat, the very symbol of Shan's Zhuanyuan status. She compared that headwear to a Kyoshi Warrior's golden headdress, a symbol of that girl's accomplishment as a capable fighter.
"If you work in this area, I simply expect some superficial cleaning, that is all I demand from you." Shan said with that neutral looking face of his. He went over to examine the futou hat.
Mayumi meanwhile, noticed a lone guzheng zither standing near the bed. Its design is strikingly similar to the one she uses on Kyoshi Island. The only difference is the number of strings. Shan's zither have twenty-one metal strings while the koto zither she uses only have thirteen.
"I didn't know you are also a talented musician, young master," Mayumi addressed him in what she believes to be the appropriate title. But it was met with a sharp gaze that almost cause her breathing to stop. She stood still as Shan too noticed the twenty-one stringed zither. Clearly, there is something distressing about it that made the scholar uninterested in his music talent. It was at this moment she realized that there may be a reason why this piece of instrument is not placed on the left side of the room.
"You are also strictly forbidden to touch the zither," Shan said in a low volume tone. He opened up his fan to cool himself, a habit she cannot ignore.
The White Scholar then brings her out back to the courtyard, concluding the tour by explaining the purpose of the two smaller buildings near the entrance. Respectively, they are storage and the kitchen. However, what Mayumi didn't ask is why she isn't living in there. According to her father, a siheyuan styled building follows a hierarchical arrangement for its living quarters. According to traditional conservative Earth Kingdom values, the owner of such courtyard house would occupy the northern chamber, or whichever direction that benefits the most a sun's daily cycle. Lower ranking family members or guests would occupy the east and western chambers, which has lesser brightness. Servants would live in the two smaller southern chambers near the residential entrance, where they will receive the least amount of sunlight. The biggest question would be, where is everyone else? Where are Shan's family members? His parents or sibling? If he is the one occupying the northern chamber, then that might imply the parents are not here and the young scholar is the sole head of the household. But this gentleman didn't even have other servants working here before. A household like this would at least require a few workers to keep it maintained. But then again, looking at the algae infested pond and slightly untrimmed grass, the conclusion draws themselves.
"There is one rule, one bottom line that I want you to remember." Shan began with a serious tone. "You may clumsily spill ink over my projects, and accidentally cause irreparable damage to my possessions, but under no circumstances do I permit you to even take one step into that room." He pointed at the eastern chamber. It's the building opposite to the living quarter Shan assigned for her. There is nothing out of the ordinary, just a plain building that is part of this siheyuan. But deep curiosity slowly builds in her. It would be disrespectful to the houseowner's wishes, and it would cost Satchiko a valuable tutor if she even did something foolish.
Unfortunate, no matter how much she may dislike some of Shan's belief, the brown-haired individual cannot risk her sister's future over philosophical disagreements. Even without much elaboration, entering the eastern chamber of Shan's home will likely spell doom to everything she has achieved so far. Judging by her new employer's legalistic and serious attitude, she will be more focused in upholding the rules.
"I understand young master Shan." Mayumi answered, hoping it can establish trust with Satchiko's new tutor. "I assure you that I will not intrude into that room. As for my sister-"
"Your sister's tuition will not be ignored. If you perform your duty accordingly, I will also not betray the promise." Shan's words did brought ease to Mayumi's mind. But the thought about her sister not able to adapt to the scholar's teaching method is still a troublesome experience. For now, she will wait and see, it would be best to appear efficient in this role assigned to. "And I want emphasizes this strongly, whatever you do, do not step into the eastern chamber."
And so it begins, the second 'job' she had to support her sister. Something shows that Shan may be hiding a secret in the forbidden room. But those are none of her concerns. As long as Satchiko can benefit from tutor, her labor is inconsequential!
"Now Takeko," Shan addressed with her fake alias. Mayumi thought it was necessary to conceal both herself and Satchiko's real names. The less the people know, the better. It would be just like acting out a role, playing a character on a stage performance, exactly like how Shan believes she worked in a theatre before. "Your first task around the household is simple, gift sorting."
"Eh?" Mayumi uttered. She then noticed the pile of objects inside the storage room. From here, she can also see that wrapped up gift from the two Ganjinese brothers. It seems that the anticipated menial tasks would have to wait.
End of chapter:
-Explanation on the 'Air Nomad armor': I need to make it VERY clear that this part is entirely not canon. There is absolutely nothing in the official story that suggests the existence of weapons of war in the four temples. This is just a head-cannon, where I felt the history of the four nations have some similarities with real life counterparts. To me, the Air Nomads are definitely the most fascinating group of people despite their mysteries. They do draw comparisons to real life Buddhist groups. The Tibetan (and sometimes Shaolin and Indian) aesthetic is excellently portrayed in the Last Airbender, which made me wonder did the Air Nomads have some sort of armed warriors that specializes in high altitude battles? I personally do not believe that the canon monks have warriors. They are complete pacifists that advocates peace (except for Zaheer). The chainmail armor and rattan shield are inspired from medieval Tibetan armor.
-The butter tea is both canon and exist in real life. I theorize that the butter came from the sky bisons in canon. Don't know how this piece of information is useful, but I just can't help myself. :)
-The rosewood was the same material I used to describe the wood on Shan's umbrella. Back then I didn't know what the specific material was. According to my sources (the internet) rosewood can be used to make high quality guitars and furniture.
-To me, the slinky tank that is powered by bending is quite an engineering marvel. It's similar with the element of earth as it has high endurance from attacks and excels in using brute force in offense. It's difficult for me to understand how the machine actually moves with Earthbender pilots, but I do think it might have something to do with the gear that moves the multi-segmented tracks. It's quite ingenious when we think we about it, the tank can likely drive for miles without fuel (it probably doesn't even have an engine to begin with).
-A brief explanation of the Judge of Honghai's army: Originally, the soldier who serve under the general would have a more modern design, but the non-benders would still use weapons such as swords, shields and the Chinese Ji halberd. They would sort of look like Earth Empire soldiers but have medieval styled Chinese armor while retaining that goggle (now that I think about it, it's almost ironic considering that this old idea has become exactly like that giant statue near Jin's restaurant). The current thought process behind this military organization tactically bears resemblance to the Chinese Qin war machine, with its uses of mass crossbows and chariots. But aesthetically, it does resemble more to the cosmopolitan Tang army, where soldiers are recruits from more varied backgrounds such as the Turks, who make for excellent shock cavalry. The presence of tanks plays into the 'tradition vs progress' troupe. In the past, the world building of this fanfiction has a more 'modern' appearance, which has been corrected to a more medieval aesthetic (well, most of the time). This is done because I felt by pursuing a more modern setting, part of the universe felt lost, and becomes...uninteresting. Initially, I even made the fatal sin by using the word GENTRIFICATION to describe Kyoshi Island. Thanks to the helpful advice of a friend, I soon realized this great mistake and toned down the world building to a more unique and less convoluted setting. I felt just because the setting can eventually advance to a more modern world makes sense, it doesn't mean the enjoyability of the story will increase with it. Losing old elements of the lore and make it closer to our world cause everything to be boring, less incentives for us to invest in the setting. Let's imagine the unlikely scenario where the world of 'How to Train Your Dragon' advances to the modern age, with computers and helicopters. It wouldn't be as interesting when comparing to seeing Viking architecture and immersing ourselves into the ancient culture of the Norse.
