A lone Kyoshi Warrior entered the village shrine, followed by a little girl in blue garment. Without saying anything, they began to clean the building that houses Kyoshi's belongings, handling every aspect with absolute care.

Small areas of dust are wiped away, and the older woman used a broom to sweep the floors, almost excessively thorough. As the child did her own superficial cleaning, the mother then performed the more delicate task. This building houses important objects, historical artifacts that are sacred relics to their people.

The Avatar's kimono is to be cleaned in a specific way that does not hurt the fabric. The child watched as the woman used a brush to remove gathered dust from the threads. It is a difficult process considering that Kyoshi was much taller than most people.

"Watch carefully," said the concentrated woman. "There might be a day when you will have to do this too."

The child stood quietly and observed. It was a long and boring process, but she understood its importance.

After waiting for her mother to finish, the older woman once again placed the kimono back on where it originally belongs. The headdress, metal fans and the pair of massive boots received the same treatment. They were all maintained with a brush that aims to eradicate stains that have accumulating with time. Not all things can last so long, but at least they can be maintained with dedication.

"There, we are done," the mother said.

They both marveled at the newly cleaned shrine. Although the walls are not furnished, it's still fine so long as this humble little hut is standing. The folks of this island never have much, but this simple way of living is what they are always accustomed to.

The woman then drew out a few belongings from a basket. She placed a small ceramic pot and inserted three incense sticks. After lighting them with some sparking stones, she put it in the entrance.

The child watched as her mother kneeled outside before the shrine building, dirtying her own dress in the process. The older woman lowered her head to pay homage to Avatar Kyoshi, pulling out two metal fans and laid them on the floor.

"Why are you not using your own one?" The little child asked innocently. The pair of glinting blades are much older than the person who currently wields it. But a question always arise, why does this woman not carry her newly made original pair?

"Daughter, that question isn't important," the woman stated bluntly, still kneeling and lowering her head at Kyoshi's shrine. "What is important is that I want you to remember to never forget where you came from. Understand?"

The child nodded. This moment was once thought of as superficial nagging until many more years later.

...

There is a note on the first page of the journal. Mayumi read carefully, holding the paper gently to not break the fragile material. The handwriting suggests that this letter first belonged to sickly person who held the brush with trembling hands.

To my dear Huo. If you are reading this, it means that my body has deteriorated to the point of no return. This is unfortunately the result of myself being gravely injured on my holy mission to proclaim the Master's name and the teachings of the Eternal Balance. It seems that this past injury has finally caught up with me.

By his eternal grace, I am still healthy enough to write despite my countless wounds. You are not yet born when I wrote my testimonies, so this letter can help to clear up some confusion. Until you are old enough, this book will be entrusted to the Master. Although me and you have never met, I simply don't want you to see my disfigured face. It is by the Master's wisdom that we should not meet personally.

With this journal, I want you to understand the difficulties, trial and tribulations we must face in this wrenched world. As avid followers of the one true Master, we will be persecuted by the blinded everywhere we go. It is the goal of any faithful servants to spread the love of the Master, even if it means losing our lives.

Still, I must emphasize. Despite the people of this world hates us for venerating the truth, we must love them in return. The Master taught that the rest of the world are simply blinded by false beliefs. They are in need of guidance from the Master and be enlightened by the Eternal Balance. Which is why we as his faithful servants are commissioned to proliferate across the world, transforming those worshipers of incorrect beliefs into our disciples. Only then can they attain purity and make right with the Master, so that they can be saved from destruction.

As I said, we must be fruitful and multiply. The Master blessed me with your birth, and I am glad to raise a faithful woman that is pleasing in the Master's eye.

I, along with many others, were the first batch of people chosen by the Master to be sent on holy missions to proclaim his name. I cannot express how happy I was, and still am, to be used for such a vital role. Although my bending is pure, I still consider myself as nothing more but an insignificant insect without the Master's love. As the most important thing of every acolyte of the Master is their mission, no matter big or small. Even still, I am grateful to be tasked with being a vanguard of his greatness, fighting evil beliefs at the front line and proliferating the Master's glory. But the best part is that I got to choose where to go.

I am willing to do everything, and at any cost, just so that I can bring those islanders into the Master's warm comforting embrace.

Huo. I hope this book can help you better understand these islanders that I failed to win over. They rejected the Master's teachings in favor of wooden statues, but I still firmly believe one day they will come to their senses. What is written here details their way of life, and suggestions on how to approach them safely. By the Master's will, I believe you will succeed where I have failed.

While the injuries inflicted by those islanders have greatly shortened my life, I am grateful to the Master that I managed to give birth to another servant of the True Father.

But heed this warning my daughter, do not underestimate those islanders. I pray that you would not love something more than the Master.

Despite just reading the first page, Mayumi already felt very uncomfortable. There is more question than answers. Just like every zealot she encountered, Huo's mother sounds almost the same. Devoted, loyal, and possess passionate admiration towards this mysterious 'Master' figure that felt always so elusive. But the way this woman viewed her children is also rather disturbing. Their spiritual leader seems to play a very significant role in the relationship between mother and daughter. The mere presence of that man interfered this family bond, competing the affection. Huo was raised so that she can appeal to the gaze of this venerated spiritual leader. The mother's love to the daughter seems to be secondary compared to the faith towards the 'Master'.

This letter is hard to understand without context. But it does suggest that the journal must be written before Huo's birth. Since the Firebender is younger than her, Mayumi estimate that the book must be written roughly twenty years ago, perhaps even further back. But the moment her eyes are laid upon the word 'islanders', she grew concerned.

Mayumi flipped over the page and arrived at the first entry. Here, Huo's mother documented her life when she was a teenager. Details included the various work she has done. But the location of where these fanatics came from are not included. The account details about some sewing works, making clothing for the new acolytes who have been initiated into their group. Their lifestyle does suggest some form of communal, but those considered 'purer' are granted additional privileges over the non-benders. Based on the writings, Huo's mother has 'helped' little acolyte children by teaching them about the Eternal Balance and how to better love the Master.

"Get them while they are young, I suppose," Mayumi remarked to herself, cringing at the last part. Despite being an Avatar devotee, it's still difficult to relate to these cultists who are hostile to everyone else. The people in her own village never replaced their family bond with absolute devotion to Kyoshi. The Avatar is a venerated figure, but not someone that demands to be worshipped.

She kept quiet inside the room with a dim candlelight. Shan is likely next door, still working on the commissioned poem and artwork. The last thing she want is to blurt words out loud and expose her identity. She continued to read.

The most incredible things have happened!

One of the Master's prophecy has been confirmed, which continues to solidify his greater power that is stronger that the Avatar! Her death once again proves the invincibility of the Master, which of course is much more worthy of my devotion than that the weak fool who pretends to be a living deity. The whole world is foolish, for they placed their comfort in a human who just so happens to be able to bend four elements. When I received the news that a nameless fellow killed the Avatar, I knew my Master could easily destroy the enemy if he was in the Avatar's place. The Avatar is weak, but my Master is strong.

Even better, the death of the Avatar also means that it confirms the Master's prophecy of his eventual ascension to the throne of the world. The world is always in chaos, wars, rebellions, famine, all sorts of disasters ravaged the Earth Kingdom, they are all signs that the Master will rise and usher in a new world filled with an Eternal Balance. If the Avatar cannot fully instate balance forever, then the glory of the Master certainly will.

This segment drew Mayumi's attention. Due to their overly confident tendencies, these cultists do have a habit of jumping too quick towards their own conclusions. As a Kyoshi Warrior herself, she was never taught that much about the death of the last Avatar. But based on general understanding and conversations on this journey, the previous Avatar was killed by someone who is known simply as the 'Avatar Killer'. That man is highly controversial figure, both venerated and hated. Across the Earth Kingdom, the mere mention of the 'Avatar Killer' is a taboo and can attract bad luck, even disrupt feng shui according to superstitions. Yet, such beliefs can also be contradictory. The Avatar Killer's divisive symbolism also drew the admiration of those who are discontent with the Avatar due to their own unfavorable circumstances. In folk religions, that killer has even been immortalized as a deity for soldiers to worship. That stone statue behind Grandma Jin's restaurant is an example of such way of thinking. Since the idea of a normal human who somehow killed the Avatar managed to impress so many people, it is inevitable that folk religion will spin it as a tale of overcoming the impossible.

As much as she wanted to admonish those who doubt the Avatar, their sentiments are understandable. Following the disbandment of Earth Kingdom unity, the already dysfunctional government has been fractured into many states, sparking civil war without the banner that once united them all. The problems only exacerbated as conflict arises everywhere, causing more deaths than pre-existing poverty and bandit armies. To be born in such environments can easily make anyone lose faith in the Avatar, especially to people who don't even have respect to them in the first place. The Avatar as a whole is often widely perceived as an arbitrator of justice and healing. That is why great Avatars like Yang Chen are so beloved even in the other nations. Whereas neglectful Avatars have their legacies spat on by the common folk for being incompetent with their powers.

But if these disasters continue to proliferate during an Avatar's reign, perhaps even the most devoted may lose their resolve.

Mayumi analyzed what is written here carefully again. The Acolytes of San Bao seems to thrive on disasters across the world, as it aims to justify the need for their Master to implement this concept known to them as the 'Eternal Balance'. The goal might also include usurping the Avatar's place in the world and replace it with their spiritual leader. While this may appear strange to her, desperate people who are emotionally vulnerable are prime targets. Across the Earth Kingdom, there is no shortage of those who fits such category. With the promise of hope and fellowship, it's tempting to join a group of zealots. While she has no idea what the Eternal Balance is, it wouldn't be surprising if the average acolyte doesn't know either. Most of them are likely content with just being faithful to the man who claims to be their savior. So long as their asinine tenets provided a sense of safety, grown adults are more than willing to extend their suspension of disbelief and ignore contradictions.

She is starting to discover that the Avatar plays an obstructive role to their zealot's belief. To them, their own 'Master' is the most powerful, benevolent and spiritually wise. Therefore, he should be venerated above all. The acolytes wish to displace it with their spirituel leader and is more than happy to antagonize anything related to the Avatar. Perhaps reading more may provide deeper insights.

I felt so honored to be in the Master's almighty presence. I felt looking at him diminished all my fears, and it made me believe that as his servant, I can do everything.

Me and all my friends, along with everyone else came to hear his message. The time has finally come, this is the beginning of which the Eternal Balance shall take root across the world. To spread his teachings to all people and all tongues, the Master selected the purest and most devoted to being his apostles. No word can describe my excitement of that time, as I too was chosen to be on this sacred mission to exalt the Master's name, proclaiming his glory to those who are in need to be enlightened in the ways of purity.

This is a very important task. To exalt the Master's name far and wide, our missions to distant lands may be a long journey. So long that it may even take up our whole current lives. But to me, this is nothing but joy! For the Master is a great man and serving him brings endless joy. And I can never put my gratitude in words, for the Master has chosen an unworthy woman like me to bring his teachings to the world. For every acolyte, garnering more brothers and sisters to the righteous cause is what every servant should aspire to do, and I cannot wait to share the Master's teachings to those who never heard. It would be so amazing to see new people joining our flock!

For everyone who has been chosen and anointed as the Master's representative, it is expected that we will not be able to listen to his teachings in person. Being stationed in faraway lands, unworthy people like us might not be able to keep his teachings consistent. But the Master have amazed us in ways we thought never possible! In his infinite wisdom, each of us were given a book of his holy canon, which we will use to share the Eternal Balance. This way, the Master's greatness can flow from his book, and his wisdom can also follow us on the journey. We are also gifted with sacred items blessed by the Master's power. These holy objects are induced with his essence and would be helpful to show our would-be disciples.

Mayumi connected the dots; the book of canon could be the encased book laced with gold cover. These acolytes have an invested interest to convince other people in joining them and worship the spirituel leader. The book of canon can certainly reveal more of that man's thoughts, which is why the Dai Li cares more about that than the insignificant journal in front of her. She kept reading.

We all get to choose where we are sent on the missions, as the Master's great commission demands us to make disciples out of all nations without discrimination. Clearly his teachings are superior, for he accepts everyone regardless of where they came from. This is because teaching them to obey everything the Master have commanded is vital for their own good.

I unfortunately have not confirmed where I will be stationed, as the place we must oversee the growth of followers will be a long-term process. So, I am wondering what location is good for me.

Some chose to go to the Fire Nation, because the people there has become a little too infatuated with the Firelord, especially the one named Zuko. A portion of them believe they should reach the mysterious Sun Warriors and bring the Eternal Balance to them.

Others believe that going to the Northern Water Tribe would help proclaim the Master's greatness, helping small remote villages who never heard the Master's name. Although the culture of the North Pole is interesting, it would be better if the Master can play the spirituel role that can better influence the natives. It is time for them to abandon their false beliefs towards nature and place their faith in the Master, which is obviously the truth.

Most of the anointed people decided to spread the Master's word across the Earth Kingdom, which is in need of the Master's embrace more than anyone. For thousands of years, the people of this continent have chosen to worship the wrong things. I don't understand why don't they just accept the Master? Why do they deep down hate his righteous teachings? There have been more wars lately between the states. Jian Sin and Siaw Jong are mobilizing their armies after the failed diplomatic efforts. So many people are hungry due to failed harvests. With so much going on, there is no shortage of unfortunate people who may be receptive to my Master's teachings.

My spirituel brother, Chen Yucheng, have enthusiastically chosen the city of Ba Sing Se as his ground to spread the Master's word. I fear for his safety, words say that there are dangerous secret police that might suppress the Master's glory.

With my spirituel brother choosing to go to such a dangerous place to ensure the Master's teachings are heard, what am I going to do? Where should I choose to create new disciples of the Eternal Balance? I need to think about it.

It's obvious that this destination for Huo's mother is Kyoshi Island, which is confirmed on the next page. Apparently, this 'Master' figure deployed some of his most trusted followers to further cultivate more members across the world. This man named Chen Yucheng might have already been caught by the Dai Li, which also explains the enforcer's lack of interest in this old journal. But this entry also reveals a dangerous trait of these zealots, which is their persistence to expand and multiple their numbers. Through conversion, they are able to amass many potential thralls that would blindly follow their dogma. What happened to the Kheshig or at the town of Shang is the result of their blind faith, and the Dai Li of Ba Sing Se have a great reason to be concerned. The cult does not penetrate the city through the giant walls, but it does permeate softly into the Lower Ring, preying on poor and vulnerable people who are seeking for a greater meaning.

I heard that there is an island somewhere in the Earth Kingdom, a very, very isolated place.

It is the home of a group of female fighters known as the Kyoshi Warriors, which is where the woman named Suki hails from. Legends say they are a disciplined group of people. It is always good to see women finding meaning in protecting what they cherish, something that can please the Master, for he too encourages women to be confident with themselves.

From the moment I heard about them, I instantly became fascinated. The best part is that I enthusiastically proclaimed this to the Master, and he gave me the blessing on this journey. No word can express his greatness.

I believe it would be wonderful to meet the Kyoshi Warriors in person and then share the Master's teachings with them. I have decided that proclaiming his glory to the Kyoshi Warriors would be my mission to advance the Eternal Balance, as those women can definitely benefit from his teachings. With their exceptional skills, I cannot wait to see how they can serve the Master using metal fans. Perhaps by dancing in his name? Who knows? By giving themselves to the Master, they will find a greater sense of purpose! It would be a wonderful sight to see them worshipping him in their uniforms and face paints, closely enveloped by the Master's warm embrace.

"Heh, oh very?" Mayumi cannot help but belittle the naive writer. The pathetic way of thinking of these people never ceases to amaze her. Huo's mother is asinine to believe that the Kyoshi Warriors even wants to submit to their spirituel leader. But since the acolytes of San Bao admonishes all beliefs except for their own, it's highly likely that this writer is already aware of her people's veneration of Avatar Kyoshi. Therefore, expecting some form of resistance. She is also disgusted by how the writer casually denigrated the sacred arts of her people. To wield the metal fans holds an important cultural significance. Relegating it to mere dancing dedicated to some lunatic is simply disrespectful.

"Wait," Mayumi said to herself. A thought came to her. Growing up on the island, there was never a mention about some strange woman trying to convert her people. She flipped over the page, seeking for some answers. But here it stated what Huo's mother did to prepare, and it's very surprising, and strange.

My spirituel brothers, sisters, and mentors graciously prepared a training camp for me. Unfortunately, we don't actually know what those women looked like. But we did partake in some research, and I know just the place where we might be able to find out inspiration. Based on what we saw in the...

We are familiarized with their appearances. They dressed up as Kyoshi Warriors wielding weapons. Using green garb and painting their faces white, they screamed at me as I approached them to share the Master's teachings. Practicing like this very helps myself learn how to talk with the remote and uncontacted people. And I am grateful for their encouragements.

Ignoring the sheer ludicrous and childish nature of this entry, Mayumi noticed that some words were intentionally obscured with more ink. It's likely that the 'Master', who at one point have been holding onto this journal, did so to prevent their location from being leaked. If she knows where Huo's mother obtained the knowledge of what a Kyoshi Warrior looks like, then it can narrow down the main base of the acolytes.

Time flew by very quick, and it came the day that we as the Master's anointed pioneers are sent off to our respective missions.

I will surely miss my friends, but obviously the mission is far more important. For proclaiming the Master's glory can ensure that his teachings can reach more unenlightened people. Thus, speeding up the process for the world to attain the Eternal Balance.

It was hard for me to admit this to myself. But the Master taught us that we must demonstrate honesty. I initially have a very hard time trying to locate where that tribe of people live. The map that my Master has given me only pinpoints a general idea of where it is, which is somewhere in the south of the Earth Kingdom. It's dangerous, because the location is close to the Southern Air Temple, which is inhabited by those false Airbenders. I pray to the Master that the tribe of islanders I am trying to befriend does not befall to the spirituel deception of those monks.

Regardless of how difficult this journey may be, the Master will always be my trusty guiding light. For my mission is more important than my life, and I am willing to go at any lengths to proclaim his astounding philosophy. Although I do not fear death, I believe I am more useful to the Master when alive. But if it's his will that I may fall, then it is simply a small part of his perfect plan that I do not understand.

Mayumi tracked the journey of Huo's mother. What is noticeable is how the writer never explicitly stated her starting location. The Fire Nation and Water Northern Tribe have smaller territories, so she is certain that is not where the zealots are mainly stationed. These fanatics do view the Air Nomads, especially the Airbenders, with contempt. No mention was made for the South Pole, but it's unlikely that the group can even survive there without being noticed by the locals. Which means that the Acolytes of San Bao's spirituel leader could be somewhere inside the Earth Kingdom, dwelling on the massive continent that have always been a thorn when it comes to finding the Avatar.

The following entries documented the journey through the Earth Kingdom, traveling across unremarkable towns and cities. As expected, Huo's mother wrote about the numerous wars fought between the warlords, where independent states sent armies against one another due to a variety of reasons. Being an opportunist, Huo's mother stressed that if all of Earth Kingdom give themselves to the 'Master', all problems would be resolved. But it is absolutely naive to believe that the warlords would even entertain something so childish. A fractured nation with countless states warring one against another is something that not even an Avatar can easily manage.

Mayumi skimmed over pages of unimportant entries, such as how Huo's mother almost starved to death on a few occasions. There are mentions of how she tried to espouse this so-called Eternal Balance philosophy onto random rural villages but was outright rejected. Here, the writer expressed regret that those farmers was not enchanted by the Master and prayed that one day they too will submit to the 'True Father'.

The Kyoshi Warrior is nonetheless captivated by comments of how an acolyte view the Earth Kingdom's beliefs. Folk religions were repeatedly discussed by Huo's mother, who is anxious about how everyone else are not submitted to the 'Master'.

It's strange how those farmers give their hard earnt rice to the local Yang Chen temple. Why would these villagers turn over their food just to pray for a better harvest for next year? It doesn't make much sense. Just a twenty more Li to the east and over a mountain, I met a town preparing for war with a neighboring state. The soldier conscripts made offerings of fruits to an iron statue. The idol wears armor and holds a giant glaive, the locals say that he is the one that killed the Avatar.

It is a false statement. For the only one that can be credited with the Avatar's death can only be our Master, who can no longer tolerate the Avatar's challenge to the Eternal Balance.

There is clear contradictory perception of reality here. Earlier entries clearly stated that the 'Master' would perform differently if he is placed in the last Avatar's position. It's disturbing impressive by how easy it is for these fanatics to overwhelm reality with what they believe, abandoning consistency along with it.

Mayumi then arrived at the part of the diary that involves Chin Village, very close to her home island. It's rather strange how Huo's mother is spending years traveling across the Earth Kingdom.

By the Master's light, I felt my destination is drawing near!

After traveling for years, I have arrived somewhere near my destination. But I must admit, going near Chin Village was a big mistake, even though avoiding that place might delay the journey for weeks.

The guards were unfriendly, asking many questions that almost put me behind bars. Words go around that the village are conscripting all the young men to fight the nearby warlord. The streets are filled with soldiers, all trimmed their mustaches in the same style as Chin himself.

I almost got caught by them a few times, praise the master for shielding me from the nefarious patrols.

Who knows? Maybe after I assisted the Kyoshi Warriors into submitting themselves to the Master, I might also be able to reach out to the folks of Chin Village and bring them under the Eternal Balance.

Mayumi knew this is an absolutely futile move. If an acolyte approached a member of Chin Village and try to advertise their spirituel leader, life behind iron bars would be the least punishing fate. Considering that Chin the Conquer was known to bury scholars and Earth Sages alive, those that are infatuated with him will likewise not be lenient towards religious zealots. She went to that place with her parents a long time ago. If Huo's mother even tried to understand the perspective of Chin Village folks, then it would be clear that this 'Master' figure would not be able to replace the tyrant himself.

She flipped over the page, slightly anxious as the journal entries edges closer to Kyoshi Island.

Evading Chin Village's armed junk boats was a very dangerous act. There were a few close calls. But I figured that my wooden kayak is not enough to tame the volatile sea. However, I did manage to bribe a few fishermen from a nearby village. By the Master's grace, he guided their larger fishing boat to where my destination may be located, and I kneeled down and praised his name.

The fishermen warned me not to go so close, as the Kyoshi Warriors are not friendly to outsiders. But I beg to differ, I believe that anyone who heard the Master's teachings would be overwhelmed with tears. Even if the Kyoshi Warriors might be unfriendly at first, there is no doubt that we can become friends that love the Master with all our hearts.

I know this is very dangerous, and I might die in the process.

Outsiders might think I'm crazy, but I believe it's worthwhile to declare the Master's name to these people. In case I do get killed, I urge that whoever read this do not demonstrate malice towards those islanders. Instead, I implore that you continue to live in obedience to what the Master has called for you to do and maintain purity. What I am doing is not a pointless thing, but the salvation of the Kyoshi Warriors is in my hands and I cannot wait to see them around the Master's throne, worshipping him in their own dialect.

It's hard to harm a naive individual who is driven by their own confused intentions. Perhaps this woman truly holds no ill-intention to her people, but her mother warned that the morally demented are not to be trusted.

To many folks on the island, the entry of outsiders does stir up trouble and disturbs the peace. Fishermen often complained about strangers walking around their fishing boats, but that inconvenience is nothing compared to the Acolytes of San Bao. Considering what those maniacs did to the Kheshig and likely many more people, any friendly behavior from these zealots cannot be fully trusted.

The fishermen's boat sailed somewhat close to the island. It is easy for me to personally use my kayak to cross the waters.

I carefully maneuvered to a side of the island that might not have many people. I believe that I should first step on the island, and then fine a good opportunity to approach the Kyoshi Warriors.

But I was met with a surprise. There are three fishermen on the spot I intended to bank on. I wanted to turn back, but they already spotted me, and escaping might give them the wrong impression that I am spy of some sort.

I paddled closer, and they appear alarmed. Those three men armed themselves with fishing hooks and shouted in a way I do not understand. One of them is a very tall, short-bearded fellow. He looked angry and threatened me with a fishing spear.

I tried to calm them down by waving at them, but they maintained their yelling. I yelled back at them using this strange dialect, but they burst into laughter. Maybe what they said was meant to insult me.

Clearly going onshore is a bad idea. I paddled back to the fishing boat. Upon reflection, I am certain that the fishing boat must have distressed the islanders.

Mayumi disagrees. People of Kyoshi Island are always wary of outsiders. Anyone who trespassed into their home would be viewed with suspicion and will likely be mistreated.

Just like her own father...

Refocusing herself on the journal, she finds it rather naive for the writer to believe that it was the fishing boat that alarmed her people. The mere presence of a stranger would be more than enough to arouse suspicion. Even more asinine, Huo's mother is fully aware of the danger, yet still remains persistent despite the obvious sign of unwelcomeness.

She flipped the page which documents what happened the next day.

I asked the fishermen to station their boats much further from the island's view. If I don't come back, they are more than welcomed to leave. Once again, I paddled towards the shore, and this time I can see a real Kyoshi Warrior!

She stood still on the sand, looking right at me.

I shouted from the kayak, saying: My name is Fu Shanxiang. I love you, and the Master loves you!

I came more prepared than yesterday. The fishermen gave me some freshly caught fish that might be enough to entice the islanders. As my kayak came closer to the sand, I began to sing and hold out the holy canon in my hand.

At this exact moment, my Master saved me from a fatal death. The Kyoshi Warrior shot an arrow at me that was blocked by the book. I was very afraid and quickly paddled away. I am more useful to the Master as an alive person, so I decided to return the next day.

This experience shown me that this uncontacted group of people is indeed being imprisoned by the Evil Spirit. It is a stronghold that I must torn down to rescue them, no matter the cost. I am not afraid of their arrows, because I know the Master will protect me from all harm.

Mayumi noted the name of the writer is Fu Shanxiang. It's idiotic to believe that using fish as gifts is appropriate for a community that lives on hunting salmon. She wondered who was the Kyoshi Warrior that fired the arrow. It appears that Fu Shanxiang is under the impression that Kyoshi Island is some sort of corrupted place where she must 'save' the folks there.

I managed to get on land safely and introduced myself to the same Kyoshi Warrior from yesterday. After clearing off the misunderstanding, she guided me to her village. There, I am a welcomed guest.

Here, Mayumi highly doubts the writer's integrity. As a Kyoshi Warrior herself, the idea of inviting strangers who trespassed their home as 'welcomed guest' is unimaginable. All outsiders who ventured into the island without permission is perceived as threats, and will definitely be either imprisoned for questioning, at worse, fed to the Unagi.

Whoever that 'guided' Fu Shanxiang to the village have likely not applied lenient methods. There are of course incentives for the writer to embellish the journal. Both for the sake of the people who might read it and to maintain the personal faith. In their world view, the 'Master' is unfailing, therefore all misfortunes cannot be attributed to their spiritual leader. Mayumi then proceeded carefully, preparing herself for what may come next.

At last, I am finally here! As expected, the Master have safeguarded me to my mission destination!

The woman guided me to a place near the village, a lone hut, likely a home for me to stay. The warrior does not allow me to go out at that time, of course, as an honorable guest, I will respect her request.

Mayumi remembered that there is a wooden hut specifically constructed to jail pirates and those who broke the rules. Somehow, for some reason, Fu Shanxiang interpreted this as a guest house. Usually, the Kyoshi Warriors would lock captured pirates in that hut until the renegades can be transferred to a mainland prison. Perhaps the same result occurred here?

Today, the same Kyoshi Warrior brought me to the chief of the village. When I first walked into their home, it pains me to see their living conditions. They live in simple wooden lodges and is clearly in need of my guidance. I saw their fishermen hunting and selling all types of unclean seafood. When I saw those oysters, clams and mussels on their stalls, I almost vomited in disgust. It's so sad to see these people forced to consume something so gross.

Mayumi wrestled to control her own seething anger. It's hard to read this without giving in to the urge of ripping the journal in half. She breathed deeply, relieving some anger. This transgressor intruded the home of others and still have the nerve to look down on the local's food. What is this writer proposing they do? Abandon fishing? An island like this one can only sustain themselves with what is caught in the ocean. No one died from eating the seafood, so why the complaint?

I finally met the chief, an old man with white beard. At first, I declared that I mean no harm to his people. But he clearly does not trust me. Most of the islanders here don't trust me either.

But don't worry, I believe eventually I would be able to reach into their hearts and find a good opportunity to declare the Master to them.

"Grandfather," Mayumi let that word slip out of her mouth. It's a great sorrow that she never managed to meet this man. He passed away before her birth. It is stated that a serious illness took him, but she cannot help but question this narrative. Nevertheless, it is great to the elder exercising caution. She has seen what these acolytes are capable of doing when the balance of power is in their favor. The act of killing indiscriminately is easy to justify by those who place their lives in this so-called 'Master' figure.

What was written next incurred her interest. It is stated that amongst the Kyoshi Warrior, there are disagreements. Dispute intensified between two prominent women, debating fiercely on what should happen with the trespasser. But this entry is dominated by the writer's thought on the island's spirituality. Here, Mayumi became very concerned.

I am allowed to stroll around the village under supervision. Even so, the Master have opened another door!

It is here that I confirmed my greatest challenge.

In the center of the village is the statue of an Avatar, the one named Kyoshi. For hundreds of years, people showered her with veneration, veneration that would be better served if it's given to the Master. I saw fishermen offering freshly caught salmon to the idol, and some Kyoshi Warriors bowing to it.

I do not hate them for committing such unclean acts, for only the Master's truth is the only truth. Which is why the Master has sent me to Kyoshi Island so that I can declare his name and correct the behavior of the islanders. Although the locals are still distrustful, I believe eventually I would be able share the beautiful truth of the Eternal Balance and transform them into my faithful disciples.

Too much of the world are plagued with wars and needless suffering. Which is why it is our duty, my sacred mission, to spread the Master's word to ensure that his light can shine across the four bending nations. When the Master can finally reign across all living things, and the Eternal Balance take hold, all things terrible will come to a conclusive end.

From this point on, Mayumi felt the journal entries are becoming less detailed. It's likely that setbacks have forced Fu Shanxiang to exclude events that may discredit the omnipotence of their 'Master'. But here, the writer documented interactions with the Kyoshi Warrior that acts as supervisor. The woman in question is described as impulsive and quarrelsome. But most importantly, she is a splendid fighter, although not as skillful as the Kyoshi Warrior known as the Tayū.

Mayumi pondered. As someone who is responsible for teaching the trainees, she is aware of the prestigious rank of what a Kyoshi Warrior can attain. The lowest rank is a Maiko, mere trainees below the age of twenty and have yet to receive their golden headdress. Those who attained the title as a true Kyoshi Warrior would be referred to as a Geiko.

But there is one title, one rank that stand above it all. It is a very prestigious role, somewhat similar to the Zhuangyuan class scholars who demonstrated mastery over their literacy skills. Only one Kyoshi Warrior can be given this title at a time. Those that have it will be considered as the strongest Kyoshi Warrior of her generation.

Mayumi wiped a drop of sweat from the forehead. The title of Tayū has never been used by her mother, even though it is the woman's rank. According to the local custom of the island, an important tournament is held for every new generation. Whoever defeats all her opponents in a series of duels would be given the right to call themselves a Tayū, thereby bringing honor to the warrior's family.

But the title can also give legitimacy to someone who wish to become a village matron. Her mother forbids others from proclaiming that title out loud. Many rumors suggests that it is linked to the other Kyoshi Warrior who was supposed to be the Tayū, who was unable to fulfill her duty after suffering from illness. Naturally, the title was passed on to the second-best candidate, and Akahana decreed that such a word will not be uttered in respect for the previous woman.

It seems that this journal entry has caught a glimpse of argument between her mother and the previous Tayū. What the writer saw suggests that the two women are mostly on bad terms, opposing each other even on petty matters. Unfortunately, the acolyte devoted most of page to express her infatuation with the Eternal Balance.

I managed to steal a few glimpses of the Kyoshi Warriors training. Their movements are beautiful and disciplined. They are younger, and I believe I can share the Master teachings with them first so that the elders can see the positive changes to the people who accepted the Eternal Balance. I believe it is imperative for me to reach through the younger generation so that they will not be misled into adapting the unclean ways of the adults.

Mayumi read through what Fu Shanxiang considers to be 'immoral'. Based on what the writer believes, acts such as building statues of spirits and people are forbidden. Statues of Avatars especially offends their spiritual leader. The tradition of offering food and incense also enrages that man. There are also many trivial matters such as dress codes and dietary rules that the acolytes want to enforce to the world. It seems that the Acolytes of San Bao has a problem with everyone and everything that does not conform to their own standards.

By the writer's logic, whatever the 'Master' condone is always good, what he hates are bad. Based on the acolyte's behavior, it seems that all other beliefs are worthy to be admonished, all because their 'Master' is displeased.

She realized that this journal can never offer the full picture of the cult's doctrine. Which is why possessing their thick book of canon scriptures would be more ideal. The Dai Li have invested years into hunting it. It also explains that having a simple journal of only one acolyte is pointless for the enforcers.

While it is great to see potential dancers who can perform in the name of the Master, not everything these Kyoshi Warriors do is pleasing in his eyes. As a faithful acolyte, I am honored to be sent to this remote island to help transform the people here.

In order to better understand the details of their corrupted customs, I decided to not lean on my own understanding. By consulting the holy canon bestowed upon me by the True Father, all questions of the world can be answered at ease.

Their dress is impure, as silk is unclean. The Master taught us that wearing it encourages indulgence.

Those weird looking face paint obscures the face. And I think that's wrong because the Master clearly wrote in the canon that the face of a woman must remain clean and untainted for their husbands. Besides, having makeup also corrupts what a woman is supposed to be in the Master's eye, so I hope these people can change that aspect.

The armor obscures their natural body shape, and the scriptures states that this displeases the Master. A woman must not wear anything that a man usually wears, so if I ever wish to change the Kyoshi Warriors into faithful acolytes, their armor and the blacksmith must follow the Master's teachings.

I personally find their excessive use of gold to make useless headdresses to be a waste, considering that such wealth can be better served as offerings to the all-powerful Master.

I believe those that wants dance to honor the Master should adhere to his standards.

Mayumi gripped the journal harder again, resisting the urge to burn the pages with candle fire. It might make her a hypocrite for destroying Huo's heirloom. But the further she reads, the frustration festers more. There is so much wrong with the writer's perspective that she doesn't even know where to start. In fact, she might even consider the Waterbender named Shui to be saner.

"There is no cure for stupidity," Mayumi muttered her phrase with narrowing eyes. She flipped the page, trying not to violently rip it with the gripping hand. "You should be grateful that you didn't say those things out loud, for you will embarrass yourself and the deranged man you venerate."

It has been for about a week since I have been here. The elders are still distrustful of my intentions. I still haven't openly proclaimed my goal of sharing the wonderful truth of the Master.

Each day, I see villagers bowing to the Avatar's wooden statue. Fishermen would perform weird rituals near the sea to pray for safe journey and bountiful harvests.

It's rather foolish. Clearly Avatar Kyoshi doesn't safeguard them! How can they be gullible enough to be deceived by such obvious sham?

As faithful servants of the Master, we are wise enough to understand the truth. Only trusting in the Master can our lives be filled with meaning and miracles.

"Ironic," Mayumi remarked.

I envision a Kyoshi Island renamed in the Master's honor. All the wooden statues, shrines and custom practices will only separate them from the Master's warm and loving embrace. I reimagined the islanders turning to the light, venerating the true Master as they should obediently do in the first place. The elders are perhaps the greatest obstacle between the people here and the Master's love. If I ever wish to transform this place for the better, I must make sure the people do not listen to the meddling old people. After all, it is the older generation that uses the lies of the Avatar to subjugate the young ones. I should be diligent in declaring the Master to these unenlightened people.

I believe that I can start by sharing the truth in secret, in one or two people when no one is watching. The Kyoshi Warrior that supervises me are as usual, quarrelsome with the Tayū. This does provide me with some previous time to approach some of the trainees while she is off to distract the Tayū. It might not be wise to start with the older Kyoshi Warriors, considering they are too spiritually corrupt to be easily enlightened by the True Father's wonderful teachings. The Tayū is also the Kyoshi Warrior favored by the elders, who chose her over my supervisor.

Mayumi froze. She examined the writings carefully again. The original Tayū is considered to be a greater Kyoshi Warrior than the current one. But that means that the supervisor that guarded Fu Shanxiang was likely own mother. It is a possibility, but she refuses to jump to conclusions.

She quickly flipped to the next page, eager to uncover more.

I believe that an opportunity has presented itself, for people are generally more receptive to the Master's light during their most vulnerable moments. My supervisor is becoming more irritated, dissatisfied that the elders have chosen someone else to be the Tayū. I give her my counsel. When I noticed that her devotion to the false deity Kyoshi wavered, I did not stand idle. I introduced snippets of my Master, trying to gain her curiosity of the Eternal Balance. I try not to stop talking, giving my all to bring her into the Master's fold.

I did hear the Kyoshi Warrior uttering her disdain when I mentioned those old fools. This is definitely a sign that the Master is working his miracles on her!

Mayumi sped through many pages, but none of it states that the supervisor became an acolyte.

About a month have gone by, I managed to amass young people who accepts the Master's teachings. They are women who are training to become Kyoshi Warriors, and I am glad that they have broken the chain that enslaved them.

They too share their hatred towards the lies of the elders and believe that acts such as offering incense to ancestors is sinful. The idea of their so-called Kamuy is simply delusional, nowhere near as great as the Master's legitimacy.

I encouraged them with all my strength. Clearly, they have been mistreated by their parents for accepting the truth. After fully embracing the Eternal Balance, they no longer choose to wear their armor and face paints. The girls who burned their silk dress denounced Avatar Kyoshi have been facing backlash from family members. But that is the expected sacrifice that is needed to follow the Master, to walk in the true light of the Eternal Balance is the only aspiration humans should have. Acolytes everywhere in the world are prosecuted for believing in the truth. Our love of the Master made us pure and therefore garner jealousy from the worldly people. I am proud of these young people for shielding me from the elders, who are aware of their wrongdoings and therefore is discussing on how to silence my truthful voice.

I believe that bringing a prominent Kyoshi Warrior into the Master's light can be more beneficial. If I managed to convert my supervisor to the righteous cause, then it will allow me to have a better standing on the island. A splendid fighter like her will certainly be beneficial when in service of the Master. I believe once I became overseer of this region, I can ordain this woman as shepherd that guards the island. She can certainly be useful for the Master, and I will reward her with a better title the Tayū.

Which is why the situation with the current Tayū can be used to my advantage. My supervisor, who wants the title of Tayū, never chose to submit to the one who currently has the rank. According to her, she previously loses the tournament at the hands of the current Tayū. Of course, she disputed the results, but the elders have already made up their minds, sowing great anger in my supervisor. Since this title means much to her, I promised the woman that if power is what she lacks, the Master can give more power than she would ever imagine possible.

She never said anything specific to reply. But I did not give up. Over the cause of a few days, I commanded my small group of young followers to acknowledge her as the true Tayū.

This aims to undermine the woman who currently holds the title, and I believe she is the most devoted to Avatar Kyoshi. Which is why I intend to weaken her evil powers and maybe replace her with my supervisor. Those senile fools are not stupid, what I did drew the ire of those lying elders. This is my counterattack in this spiritual war to save their hearts. The elders are doing everything they can to retain their control, but clearly only the Master's anointed overseer can prevail over their deception.

Since more young people are flocking to me, my disciples believe that they should tear down Kyoshi's statue and destroy her belongings. Since some people say that the Avatar's items can channel her spirit, it would please the Master to see those evil artifacts thrown into fire.

But I implored them to wait before all the Kyoshi Warriors come under the Master' banner. If we ever wish to take over this stronghold of evil customs, we must make sure to turn its defenders against them and be enveloped into the Master's loving embrace.

I am thankful for the Master's help on this journey to declare his name on these people. With the Master's strength, the elders are afraid of me. My loyal followers are willing to do everything to follow his glory. I believe nothing will truly come between an acolyte and the Master. For everyone in this world must love nothing more than the benevolent Master, for this is the only way to live meaningfully and attain greater purity.

Mayumi took a break from the insanity she just consumed. This is quite the revelation. Her parents never told her about this event in history. She is both disgusted and surprised by how easy it was for this outsider to convince some locals. It's even more offensive that the deceived trainees then go on to discrete their own identity as Kyoshi Warriors. Silk is not an easy material to produce. Unlike wool, the source for Kyoshi Warrior's kimono are silkworms that requires some time to mature and become harvestable goods. Not only did those new acolytes chose to turn their backs on Kyoshi, but they even entertained the thought of permanently destroying sacred objects of her people.

Clearly allowing this acolyte onto the island was a huge mistake. It is like a tumor to the body, spreading its presence and consuming ever more. Mayumi is still unclear on why her people hid this part of history away. But considering how this 'Eternal Balance' can sow discourse in families and destabilize a community and its culture, it is no wonder why the elders believe that eliminating traces of it from history can minimize the youth from being corrupted again. The acolyte's philosophy was like an infection that aims to devour and overtake. Having her around the village only gives the cultist all the time she needs to turn the people against their families and traditional values.

I feel more powerful as I can clearly see the Master's miracles. The children amongst my small group of followers are willing to go against their parents so that the Master can be venerated above all. I applaud their wisdom for fighting for the righteous cause, because only the Master himself is the truth. It's such a great sight to see these children loving the Master so much.

But in recent days, there is a large fisherman who is behaving in a hostile manner. Whenever I tried to share the Eternal Balance with some children, he always interrupts. I remembered that he was the same one that threatened me with a fishing spear before I can step on the island.

The Master is a benevolent and just man, but those who oppose the proliferation of his teachings to unenlightened people are unworthy to become his faithful servant.

After asking my disciples, they revealed that the fisherman is a close friend of the Tayū. That explains many things. Clearly the Tayū Kyoshi Warrior aims to confront my Master, so she sent a servant of darkness to hinder me. Acolytes around the world are oppressed for following the truth and propagating the Master's teachings of purity, which is why I have prepared for the day that others may persecute me for adhering to the truth.

The writer then went on to list her exploits, mainly documenting attempts to alter the behavior of the local people. While her small gathering of acolytes obediently changed their way of life, she still tried to change the diet of the fishermen by lecturing how 'unclean' their food is. Instead of finding nourishment in seafood, the acolyte proposes that wheat should planted as they are 'pure' in the Master's eye.

The entry never stated how those fishermen responded. Mayumi guess that the folks are likely annoyed by the intruder who corrupted a group of youth.

The following page detailed how Fu Shanxiang tries to enforce a 'pure' way of cooking, which strictly adheres to using only one ingredient for each dish. With exceptions such as stall bread and bland soup, it seems that this acolyte can find fault in every single aspect of her people's cuisine. Oysters are 'dirty', and the ingredients used for stew is an 'abomination'. Apparently, these cultists care more about adoring their leader's teachings instead of enjoying a dish's taste. The secret recipe of Akahana's stew would have likely also been scrutinized. But since the acolyte wish to convert her mother, that this attempt at enforcing a new diet was never directly aimed at the Kyoshi Warrior.

Lastly, the acolyte denounces the hunting of Elephant Koi and condemned sewing clothing that has more than one type of fabric. Due to Kyoshi Island's very limited land, crops are grown very sparsely in small gardens. But even this did not escape the intruder, who slanders planting more than one type of crop in a field.

From what Mayumi can tell by reading the following entries, the folks of Kyoshi Island were lectured on every little thing that the 'Master' deemed impure. Her band of young followers also imitated Fu Shanxiang, they drastically changed their lifestyle and committed their lives to the Eternal Balance. The main incentive for these new converts is that the acolyte promised that by venerating the 'Master' instead of Avatar Kyoshi, they can be reborn as benders in the next life.

Mayumi sighed. She wanted to call these young people idiots, but there is no denying that they are her own people. The worst part about this acolyte's influence is the emotional distraught those parents must have felt when their own children are misled to denounce their own way of life. She wondered where those converts are now, as she never met anyone who behaves like an acolyte. It seems that traces of Fu Shanxiang and her disciples are erased from memory so that the latest generation would never be corrupted again.

She flipped over the page, both angered and saddened by the betrayal. Fu Shanxiang and her followers' action is an attack on everything she stood for. If the prerequisite to follow this 'benevolent master' meant turning against family and custom, then this is clearly a corrupting influence that can destroy her home.

This morning, the fishermen are alarmed that a portion of their fishing ground are filled with dark oozing liquid. Those brutes are always the most resistant to the Master's teachings, and I believe this is a miracle that aims to demonstrate the True Father's power!

I smiled upon seeing the shocked faces of those who dare slander the Master, for he has clearly given this victory to me!

The people of this island lack the righteous moral framework of the Master. They chose not to know him. Therefore, they suffer without his light. How fortunate and merciful it is for the Master to show compassion on these uncivilized islanders, for the True Father have sent me on this sacred mission to correct these people into faithful servants of the Master.

With this miracle, the Master punished the fishermen's insolence.

Let the whole know what comes to those that oppose the Master's anointed!

Hooray! Praise the Master!

Aside from how sinister it is for someone to celebrate other people's endangered livelihood. Mayumi is fixated on the entry's description of this 'dark oozing liquid'. It seems to be serious enough to threaten her people's ability to hunt fish, especially if it harms their traditional fishing ground. From her memories, no such thing was ever mentioned by her parents. The fisherman Ebisu also never said anything about it, even though he is old enough to witness whatever Fu Shanxiang described.

As me and my disciples try to further the Eternal Balance, I heard word that the village is going to hold a ceremony for the Tayū.

As an outsider, no one wants to share this detail with me. Luckily, my temperamental supervisor revealed more information.

According to her, this ceremony aims to officially solidly the Tayū. Understandably, my jealous supervisor is still angered.

The ceremony is reeked with evil. I believe it is dedicated to Avatar Kyoshi, the false deity that ensnarled the people here. Even worst, all the meddling elders will be there too. Holding a ceremony like this is clearly a celebration of decadence, and it is sinful because it gives the Tayū a sense of self-importance. As a righteous acolyte and a pure woman that is faithful to the Master, I cannot just stand idle and let this devious event take place.

After being only this island for a long time, I already have a band of women trained to fight for the Master. I believe it is time for me to take another step to advance the Eternal Balance.

Based on the information of where those people might gather before the event, I have a plan.

A plan to cleanse the unclean and unrighteous. So that the islanders can be freed from those wrenched decaying corpses and be enveloped by the unrelenting love of the Master!

"What?" Mayumi almost gasped, eyes in shock. If it wasn't for Shan still awake and working in the northern chamber, she might have exclaimed upon reading this passage.

The word 'cleanse' could imply many things. But in the context of dealing with these cultists, it is the same as killing. Those zealots would have no qualm harming anyone they deemed impure, children and women alike.

Within a single heartbeat, she quickly flipped the page, trying to overcome her greatest fear. Despite what is written in the journal are all past events, it still distraught her in the present. Perhaps this book can also reveal why the village matriarch, Suki, managed to outlive both her grandparents. It is a fact that she always wondered.

Upon flipping the page, she saw how the words became harder to read. The syllables appear wobblily and lack of uniformity, giving off the feeling of a weak writing hand. Confusion temporarily overtook her anxiety as Mayumi scrambled to interpret this strange entry. It's the same writing style as the letter at the start of this book.

No words can describe my feeling of shame and guilt, for I have failed the Master at every account possible.

I am nothing but an unworthy being that is undeserving of love and respect, yet the Master chose me to be anointed as a champion that will proclaim his name across the world.

But I have failed spectacularly. I failed his expectations. I was unable to repay the debt.

Mayumi felt a sense of relieve. But she knew this is unwise, optimism is often doomed for devastation. She forced herself to read more.

My mission to save the islanders have come to an unfortunate end. I dishonored the Master and brought shame as my failure likely delayed the Eternal Balance on the world's stage. Although I was close in freeing the people from those corrupting elders, I lost all my progress to transform Kyoshi Island.

But the cause for my failure shocked me to the core. I was betrayed, backstabbed by the one person I thought would be my faithful ally.

In mere seconds, all my disciples were wrongfully killed for defending the Master.

But that is not the worst part, that woman even burned the holy canon given by the Master, a clear act of defiance to his glory!

My supervisor is a treacherous scum, a bloodthirsty monster who cannot differentiate between right and wrong. After all I did to help in her lowest point, she wiped away our friendship and opposed the Master's plan for this island.

When she wounded me gravely, I was so afraid of what she might do to me. There is so much blood on her, and at that moment, I failed the Master by being unable to defend the Eternal Balance and my band of new disciples.

I couldn't move as she alone slaughtered my disciples. Their skills were unfortunately futile. Each only lasted a few seconds before being cut down by metal fans. At that moment, I remembered that those former Kyoshi Warrior trainees are nowhere near enough to defeat that monster.

To this day, I still couldn't understand how that woman was able to stain the fans with the blood of her people that easily.

Of course, she is still someone who does not accept the Master's teachings, so obviously she is violent and unwomanly.

While I am gravely wounded, my Master's benevolent knows no bound. His miracles alone allowed me to escape the island with only my pathetic worthless life. I unfortunately also lost those sacred relics that the Master bestowed upon me. No amount of repentance will be enough to wash away my crime.

Despite having to face an utter disgrace like me, he still deeply cares about the health of his flock. Each night, he personally performs healing miracles on my body.

Yet, I still cannot forget or forgive the woman who undone all my life goal in one afternoon. That Kyoshi Warrior opposed the Master is clearly thirsting for damnation. To harm a Master's anointed is the same as harming him. She is impure and unclean and will surely be dealt with for the crime of going against the Eternal Balance. The Master shall curse her filthy spawns, condemning them to diseases and famine. From that point on, her children will repent and be grateful that the Master will accept their servitude as atonement for their mother's foolishness.

Although I am bedridden, there is little to debate that a faithful woman like me who is loyal to the Master will always be superior to an unclean hag who is against his teachings.

I love the Master with all my heart, which is why I will be blessed with many descendants while that treacherous traitor will only have her accursed brown hair passed down to diseased offspring. Her life will only bring suffering. The Master hates those who harms his sheep, retribution shall befall on these heathens!

That woman is nothing but a harlot that is unworthy to be saved by me. If she ever decides to pollute this world with more filthy spawns, I wish to kill her firstborn child by smashing its head on stone and throwing it down the river for the birds to eat.

There is no more left to read. She has reached the end of the journal entries.

Mayumi quickly flipped forward, and then hastily reexamined the previous entries. The writer was not specific when it comes to recording what exactly happened during the ceremony. But clearly there was violence, which likely has caused the death of an unspecific number of people.

"No," she gripped her hand, disappointment washed over her as the journal cannot offer a full understanding of the event. She truly wants to know more about this past history that have spurred Huo to kidnap her and Satchiko.

But based on what is written in the journal, albeit vague, she can still conclude certain facts about the people who are targeting Kyoshi Island. The Acolytes of San Bao as a whole prefer an absolutist view towards spirituality. With an exclusive mindset towards everything else, their faith towards the 'Master' is powerful enough to rationalize the harming of others. Although deep down they may choose to embellish the gruesome details of their actions, they nonetheless still believe that everything else besides their own people are righteous.

She also noticed that the general consensus of morality is absent in Fu Shanxiang. Good deeds are tied to whatever their spiritual leader espoused, while what that man dislike is perceived as evil and most importantly 'impure'. Since they venerate the man akin to a deity, then his thoughts and actions will be naturally mimicked by the followers. With no ground for compromise or nuance, those that do not subscribe to their belief are instantly labeled as creatures that needed to be saved or killed. It is also not surprising that with an altered view of morality, acts such as exterminating people are less confronting.

Mayumi contemplated more. With a slightly better understanding of their doctrine through the perspective of Fu Shanxiang, it seems that they pride their own belief as the truth and demands the submission of others. As an exclusive belief that claims to be the only truth, this naturally compels the acolytes to perceive everything else as false. Evidently, the tendency to spread their belief and convert others is views as a sacred duty. But since this will obviously cause friction and conflict with other people, any opposition will be view as persecution of the truth.

Martyrdom is their aspiration. To obey the 'Master' is a virtue. And enduring persecution is a testament of their faith. Converting those that are not within their ranks is the upmost importance, and the main incentive is to promise outsiders with the reward of reincarnating as benders in the next life.

With such a framework, pushbacks against those zealots will be used as justification to further impose this 'Eternal Balance'. If it escalates to violence, the cult can use it as a sign that persecution is an indicator that their actions and thoughts are righteous.

Mayumi massaged her own head. Staying up late is clearly unhealthy. She understood that Huo is likely raised in an environment where the Eternal Balance is repeatedly reinforced. By reading this journal, she believes that the Firebender has interpreted her mother's death as a murder committed by a Kyoshi Warrior. But the acolyte doesn't seem to be bothered by the fact that her mother intruded the home of others and disrespected local traditions. How can she expect a fellow cultist to adhere a less insane mentality? The action of Huo's mother was framed by the Firebender as an act of love. But after reading the journal, clearly the intention is morally confused and full of childish stupidity. There is simply no shortage of delusion, motivated by unfounded zeal that aims to justify the act of conforming others into their flawed philosophy.

Throughout the entries, Fu Shanxiang only cherish the islanders who were foolish enough to believe her charlatan belief. Mayumi is angered that some of her people were tricked into believing the charlatan and died needlessly. The confusing understanding of 'love' is prevalent and abusive. When the supervisor turned against the writer for harming the people, the journal did not hold back with the slandering. Clearly the acolyte who wrote this only wish for the worst, and hungers for vengeance. She even labeled the brown hair as an accursed trait that is a curse in the family.

"Wait, brown hair?" She noticed the scathing description of the supervisor's physical feature. Her hand instantly reached for her own, brushing it gently. It is true that this color is exceedingly rare. But brown hair is not an uncommon feature of her people. To this day, Huo still cannot recognize her target without the iconic makeup. The only distinction that comes from Mayumi's family is having a more auburn hair color. Much to Akahana's denial, some folks in their gossips have tried to claim that this is an obvious sign that they are descendants to a very prominent individual.

"What if it's very you mother?" Mayumi said to herself, afraid to assume the identity of the supervisor. She ultimately isn't fully certain if Akahana was the supervisor who gravely injured the Firebender's mother.

Huo knows the name of the village matron, and clearly harbors intense hatred towards her. At this point, it's difficult to process this information without feeling more confused. Mayumi is saddened that in the past, this tragic event occurred. But it is clear that the last generation chose to conceal this part of the island's history in hopes that it would be forgotten. Yet, a few questions still remain unanswered, were her grandparents harmed by Fi Shanxiang?

She felt a heavy weight bearing on her shoulders. Knowlege can both be helpful and difficult to possess, but she believes that her mother holds the remaining secrets that the journal refused to elaborate in detail. Another question also involves the Kyoshi Warrior who previously held the Tayū rank. What did Fu Shanxiang did during the day of that important ceremony? Her mother currently holds this sacred title, but something detrimental must have happened that caused the last woman to be unfit for the role.

"I am so sorry Kazuki," Mayumi cannot help but apologize.

That girl is her sister's close friend. As a result of death in childbirth, her mother died, only barely managed to hold her newborn in arms before departing. As Mayumi became an instructor in the dojo, she knew the greatest motivation for Kazuki is always to thrive for a legacy that was meant to be her mother's. If the previous Tayū is still healthy and was fully ordained during the ceremony, she would have likely become the village matron instead of Akahana. Reality would have been much different if the past has happened differently. Although the journal states that Akahana and the previous Tayū are always quarrelsome rivals, Mayumi's foggy childhood memory only depicts two close friends.

If her memory served her correctly and the information is accurate, there is no doubt that the previous Tayū is Kazuki's late mother. As a toddler, she still vividly remembers a woman whose teeth are fully darkened.

It was a woman named Ubume.

End of chapter note:

-There is no such thing as a Tayū rank in the canon. Everything new are strictly in this fanfiction. A real life Tayū do have black teeth.

-A 'Li' is a traditional Chinese measurement unit. Although its length does vary, it is considered to be 500 meters or 1,640 feet or 0.311 miles. For the sake of immersion, I will be using this to describe distance instead of miles or kilometers.

-The name Fu Shanxiang the name of a woman who is the first, only and last female Zhuangyuan in Chinese history.