Earth... Fire... Air... Water...
The Avatar's destiny has been fulfilled, and now, her story will end.
AVATAR
The Celestial Sailors
BOOK THREE: DEATH
39: All Good Things
Ikuko Tsukino sighed as she tossed another letter onto the pile. This one was asking for the Avatar to intervene in a border dispute just outside Taku. More and more people were pushing into it, angering the native Fomoriians. Another letter was from the Southern Water Tribe, and concerned the reappearance of "ghouls", whatever they were. The Fire Nation's western archipelago had a sea-spirit to contend with, while a mad earth-bender was constructing a stone army in the Hinterlands. The White Lotus wanted her advice on some matters, merchants were having difficulty going through the Great Divide, the Patola Mountains were being overrun with bandits...and the Ember Island Players were begging her to make a special guest appearance.
And those were all the letters that came in this week.
Ikuko knew her daughter couldn't ignore her duties, but she didn't want to burden her, either, especially since she was so close to fully recovering. There was also the matter of Usagi's pregnancy to deal with—yes, she had told her mother, who had no end of comments and advice for her daughter—and the potential scandal that could come of it. In time she'd be in no shape to tax herself with activity like she used to, and eventually she'd have to weigh her responsibility as an Avatar against her responsibility as a mother. Mamoru must know, obviously; her friends must know, if they didn't already; soon the whole world would know, for better or worse. What then?
Her daughter had spent days meditating, looking back at her past lives for guidance, specifically those who had had children of their own. Kiyone and Bitasu had both been mothers, and each had wildly different opinions on how Usagi should handle it. Almasafir had adopted; Nami had miscarried twice; neither of them could relate. Ikuko promised to help Usagi however she could, but...
Another incoming messenger-hawk broke her concentration. She reluctantly took the letter, thanked the bird, and watched as it flew away. It was a request from the Northern Air Temple, who wanted Usagi to personally train some of their new monks. Ikuko wondered if she could forward the letter to Ishtar, or Linka, or even Minako if she wasn't too busy. She tossed it into the pile and decided to take a break, maybe check in on her husband. Kenji had been dead-set on writing a chronicle of Usagi's life, but he was having a tough time deciding where and how to begin it.
Kenji seemed to be in good spirits when his wife drifted into his study. He had a large pile of messy papers on one side and a single sheaf in front of him, part of it covered with his hasty scrawl. He grumbled as he examined it closely, crossing out words and adding notes wherever there was space. Ikuko waited until it looked like he was at an impasse before calling to him.
"Any progress so far?" He turned around and grinned brightly.
"Ah, you're just in time, honey! I think I finally came up with something satisfying. How's this for an opening?" Kenji cleared his throat and began reading from the paper:
Once upon a time, there was an Avatar who had been born in Ba Sing Se and had achieved great deeds. One day, however, without any explanation, the Avatar disappeared, and was lost from all knowledge. After a long period of silence, representatives from the four great nations convened, and were reluctantly forced to declare the death of the Avatar, and the birth of a new one. However, though they awaited the new Avatar's appearance, none were manifest. Many more years passed, and with the absence of any successor, the world was gradually thrown into chaos. Governments became unbalanced, spiritual and natural disasters spread, and war sprang everywhere. Had the cycle been broken? Would anybody even know?
"I'm thinking of starting at Lord Kuni's tournament. That's really where all of this began." Ikuko frowned critically.
"When you say 'the Avatar', don't you think people will be confused? Why not just say 'Avatar Kalkin'?"
"Oh, everyone will know who I mean," he answered dismissively. "What other Avatar up and vanished on us in recent memory?"
"I think you should specify anyway," Ikuko suggested. "This isn't something you should be cryptic about." Kenji pondered over it for a moment before making the change. He read and reread what he had written and shrugged.
Once upon a time, there was an Avatar named Kalkin who had been born in Ba Sing Se and had achieved great deeds. One day, however, without any explanation, Kalkin disappeared...
"Is that better?" She smiled.
"Much better!"
"You're the best editor in the world, you know that?" He leaned up to kiss her and resumed his work, culled from piles of notes, reports, interviews, and documents acquired over the years. It would probably take him years to finish, even to get to this point in time.
"What about your reporter job?" Ikuko wondered.
"Oh, don't worry, that's still my number one priority. I'm just doing this in my spare time."
"Don't you think it'll be a bit biased?" she wondered with a smirk. "After all, you are her father."
"Well, if anybody's got the facts to argue against me, they're more than welcome to present them. I'm just writing down what's been given to me. Nothing more." He sighed and conceded her point with a gesture. "Okay, I might embellish a few things here and there—but you tell me what historical document doesn't stretch the truth!" Ikuko laughed sweetly and decided to go outside to see how her daughter was doing. She found Usagi playing with Luna underneath a shady tree, balancing on an earth pillar as she gently pushed a block of ice along the ground. She stood teetering on one leg, the other carefully hoisting a fireball. Was it really only two or three years ago when Usagi could barely climb a staircase without tripping? She had grown so much, perhaps too much; Ikuko found herself weeping a little out of pride and nostalgia, and dried her eyes as she approached her daughter.
"Dear," she announced, but the slight distraction was all it took for Usagi to come crashing down. Luna grabbed the ice block and chewed on it as her daughter groaned. Ikuko rushed to help her stand. "Oh my goodness, Usagi, I'm so sorry! Are you all right?"
"I'm fine," she groaned, flashing a crooked thumbs-up as her eyes twirled. "Did somebody get the number of that palanquin?"
"Oh, Usagi," Ikuko sighed, chuckling softly as she hugged her daughter. She helped Usagi stand and stomped out the stray fire with her foot. Usagi just humbly chuckled.
"Maybe I should focus more on getting better and less on showing off. Still, I've come a long way since I arrived! I can even walk around in daylight, sort of."
"I'd say that's excellent progress," Ikuko said reverently. "Pretty soon, you'll..." She stopped herself cold and glanced away. Usagi leaned in.
"What? Mom, what is it?" Her mother sighed.
"It's nothing. Soon you'll be back on your feet and ready for action." She paused, her face heavy with regret. "I just wish it wasn't so soon. You really deserve more time for yourself."
"Yeah, maybe," Usagi conceded, "but the world isn't gonna slow down for me. Sooner or later, I gotta get back out there and—ow." She winced as she stretched her shoulder, one of the bruises from her fall throbbing in protest. Ikuko took a look at it and rubbed on some salve that Ami had given her. Their eyes met.
"When do you think you'll be ready to tell Mamoru about..." She nodded meaningfully. Usagi sighed.
"I don't know, mom. I'm not even sure I'm ready to tell the others. You and Ami are the only ones I've talked to about this."
"You have to let them know sooner or later." Usagi grunted as the salve did its work. Her bruise healed and she found herself mobile again.
"I know, I... Maybe I'll tell Rei first, when she visits again. Makoto's going on her honeymoon, finally, so I might tell her when she gets back from that. Mina's busy; maybe I'll drop in on her one of these days and let her know, her and Naru. After that..." She paused and shook her head. Ikuko hugged her daughter gently.
"You know what's best for yourself. You go about this however you feel is right."
Usagi nodded coldly. "I just don't want to screw everything up. I want my child to...our child to be happy, not some tool in a game of politics." Usagi took a deep breath and let it out slowly as she rested her chin on her mother's shoulder. The day passed slowly as they stood there together, underneath the lengthening shade. An idea came to Usagi in that moment of serenity.
"Mom, I have an idea. I'd like to write a letter to everyone. Do you think you or dad could find a messenger-hawk for me?"
"We could do you one better," came a familiar voice. Usagi looked over and saw Haruka and Michiru approaching them. Haruka grinned as she saluted. "I heard you need a messenger-hawk for something?"
"We didn't mean to eavesdrop," Michiru apologized. Usagi smiled.
"That's okay. I just need a letter delivered to Mamoru and the others."
"Consider it halfway there already." Haruka winked at her and added, "The wind and I have an understanding."
"And the waters of the world will bend to your whims," Michiru added. Ikuko raised her eyebrows.
"What exactly does that mean?" The two women froze.
"It...means it'll...get there...really fast."
"Oh? Faster than a messenger-hawk?" Ikuko smiled impishly, silently challenging the two women. She knew Haruka well enough to know that the other woman never turned down a challenge, especially if it involved racing—and sure enough, the gleam of competition flashed in her stormy eyes.
"Is that a challenge, Mrs. Tsukino?"
"The way I see it, Usagi has to send three letters: one to Ba Sing Se, Omashu, and Hikawa Temple. You ladies get three, and the hawks get three; my husband can help make copies. Whoever sends all three letters first wins the challenge."
"And what reward will we get for winning this challenge?" Ikuko smiled humbly.
"Let's keep that a surprise for now. Consider it extra motivation." Haruka and Michiru agreed to her terms and prepared for the voyage; meanwhile Usagi glanced quizzically at her mother.
"So what sorta prize did you have in mind?" Ikuko sighed glumly.
"Honestly, sweetheart, I have no idea. I didn't think that far ahead."
…...
Usagi stood waiting on the shore two days later, the sun gradually creeping its way to the horizon. She wondered who would arrive first—probably Rei, as she was the closest—and whether Haruka and Michiru had won the contest or not. She had requested to be alone that evening, so her mother and father occupied themselves with some chores. Usagi idly fondled the pendant Setsuna had given her, shifting her focus between it and the vast ocean.
"Time heals all wounds, eh," she murmured. She touched her abdomen, hardly showing at all. Pretty soon, though, her world would change, and she had no idea how she'd confront that change. How odd, she thought, to have fought so hard for stability, only for chaos to once again overwhelm her world. But that was the way of things, wasn't it? Peace without change led to stagnation. The world needed Vaatu just as much as it needed Raava; they had to have the dark along with the light. Maybe it was merely the acceptance of that truth that she had fought for, the willingness to bring darkness and destruction and new life and unpredictability into the fold. In an odd way, chaos was balance, just as much as order was. Its opposite was excess, not stability.
Remember the balance, Vainamoinen had implored her. Usagi was beginning to truly understand what he meant. She touched her abdomen again and smiled. Maybe this wasn't going to be so bad after all.
She wondered whether her child would be a boy or girl as Rei's ship weighed anchor. The priestess rowed ashore personally, propelled by flames. They embraced and chatted for a bit. Rei's grandfather was still a handful, Yuichiro had been properly chastised, she had run into Nergal a few days back, the royal family was fine, Kotono seemed distant but determined, Ittou was hard at work...
They saw the air-bison descending and made room for it. Ami and Minako hopped off, holding hands; Makoto slid off, dressed in royal finery; Usagi decided to hug Mamoru first, kissing him before she greeted the rest of her friends. She was expecting three more people, so until they arrived, the purpose of this meeting was to be kept a secret.
"You know," Makoto pointed, "it's been awhile since all six of us were in one place. I almost can't remember the last time I saw Rei or Mamoru."
"We've all been busy," Mamoru stated. "Usagi did her job, so we have to do ours. Don't worry," he said, grinning at Minako, "I'm getting plenty of rest, too. Motoki would never let me live it down if I fainted on the job."
"Good to hear it," she replied softly. As they were all getting caught up, the ocean burst apart, a massive tsunami roiling towards them at breakneck speed. Ami immediately went on the defensive but settled down as she saw the cause of this unusual phenomenon. Far in the distance, a young woman rode on the crest of the wave, controlling it with the fluidity of a master. Above her, billowing in the evening breeze, was a bison, faster than any of them had seen. Artemis roared at it in greetings; Luna let out a loud howl; Usagi just waved. The woman leaped off the wave, rolling it back harmlessly into the ocean, landing ashore with a flourish.
"Show-off," Ami chuckled. Michiru returned her smile. The second bison made landing shortly after her, depositing a tall, androgynous woman with sandy hair and a short, pale girl with black hair. Haruka parted her hair coolly; Hotaru simply bowed.
"Hey," Haruka winked. Makoto and Usagi blushed while Minako approached the bison.
"He's so fuzzy and cute! Is he yours?"
"He is now. Sifu Uta was in the area. She had a few bisons with her and said that it was high time I got a new partner. I wasn't too keen on it, but this gal and I seem to have bonded. Her name's Amara."
"Cool name," Minako said as she nuzzled the bison. "Hi, Amara. I'm Mina, and this is Artemis." Artemis was getting a little jealous, so Minako backed off and gave him an apology cuddle.
"So what did you call us here for?" said Ami. There was a look of expectancy in her eyes, as if she thought this was Usagi's way of revealing her pregnancy. Usagi sensed her apprehension but ultimately disappointed her. Not yet, she silently conveyed. Instead she smiled wistfully and gazed at her friends for a long time.
"Um...you okay there, bun-head?" Mamoru said. The Avatar smiled gingerly.
"Um, yeah. Say, how about we have a party?"
"A party?" Mamoru and the other girls blinked in confusion.
"Yeah. I was just wondering, now that I'm on the mend, we might, ah...celebrate. I mean, it has been awhile since we were all together like this."
"You want to have a party," Michiru deadpanned.
"Sure! Like a 'hey, glad you're back on your feet, Usagi' kinda party."
"Is that really the reason you called us out here?" Makoto wondered incredulously. Usagi's fragile smile spread, obviously effected.
"Hey, I think it's a good idea. Besides, you've all been so busy lately that you could use a break, too! And like I said..." Rei sighed impatiently. If anybody could see through Usagi's subterfuge...
"Usagi...that's really a—"
"A great idea," Ami piped up, startling everyone. She held firm as they gawked at her. "Usagi's right: we could all use a little fun right now. I think a distraction's the perfect way to refresh ourselves, and it would give us a chance to be with Mako before she goes off on her honeymoon. We could use the ship Rei came here in and sail to the mainland. Right?" Her eyes pierced through Usagi's flimsy veneer into the heart of the matter, which only the two of them understood. Usagi flinched and fumbled a bit before following along.
"Uh, yeah... I mean, yeah, that's a great idea! This island's too small for a proper celebration anyway! I say we fly over to that ship, spend the night there, sail to the mainland, and have a full day where we party our butts off! Whaddya say!"
"I'm in!" Hotaru squeaked. She blushed a little and added, a bit quietly, "I have tomorrow off anyway, so why not? Besides, I've never been to a party before."
"Well," said Minako, drawing in a deep breath, "you all know I'm always up for a celebration. Why not?" She smiled warmly at Ami, who reflected her cheer. Mamoru nodded.
"I'm usually inclined to follow milady's lead in these matters, and I have been overtaxing myself lately. Surely we can all afford a single night of frivolous behavior." Haruka and Michiru exchanged a look, the latter shrugging carelessly.
"We've got nothing better to do, and it has been getting a little cramped around here."
"Rei, Mako, how about it?" Mamoru said. The two ladies frowned at each other, one still worried about her husband while the other felt burdened by responsibility. Was this really the right time to celebrate?
Then again, they couldn't remember the last time Usagi had been this enthusiastic.
"Oh, all right," Rei conceded softly: "But only for one day. I guess I could find us all a place to stay while we...party our butts off."
"But no alcohol," Makoto pointed. "Motoki and I are trying to have children and I don't want to do anything that might ruin our chances." Once again, Ami glared at Usagi, who flinched but remained silent. It was agreed, then, so Usagi told her parents what she had planned, giving them a quick hug and Luna some caresses before bouncing onto Artemis (next to Mamoru, of course). Whether on boat or bison, Team Avatar rendezvoused on the ship, explained the situation to the captain (who was, thankfully, honored to have so many illustrious people onboard), and spent the rest of that night chatting and dining. Later, Ami sidled next to Usagi as she stood at the starboard bulwark, staring at the stars. The sun was long gone and blissful darkness shrouded the world.
"Usagi, not to nag, but..."
"I know, I'll tell them when I'm ready. But not yet. I want to have some fun first."
Silence.
"Is that really the reason you called us out here?"
"Well, yeah," she said, holding her hair still in the breeze. Ami noticed she had tied it back into her familiar pigtails, complete with buns. Except for her left hand, and some lingering weakness, Usagi was herself again.
"Usagi," Ami said, somewhat coldly, "please don't keep secrets from us. What's really—"
"It's not a secret," she insisted. Her eyes sparkled even though there was a twinge of sadness behind them. "It's a surprise." She gave a flimsy smile and resumed stargazing. Ami sighed and stared into the ocean below.
"All right, Usagi, I'll trust you. But you can't keep this to yourself forever. We're your friends, Usagi: you owe it to us to let us in on whatever's happening."
"I know. I will." That seemed to be that, then, and since Ami had declared her trust, she'd have to prove it and let the matter be. She was silent for a bit longer before changing the subject to happier matters. If Usagi really wanted to have a good time, then she shouldn't be burdened with duties and obligations. Even Ami was willing to relax and let loose, now and then.
…...
After bidding farewell to the ship's captain and crew (Rei discreetly slipping him some money for his troubles), the group found a quiet restaurant where they could have breakfast. Rei knew of a few places where they could have privacy, and a few coins passing hands ensured they'd keep it. Usagi definitely didn't want to be bombarded by fans or paparazzi—at least not yet—she wanted the day to be about herself and her friends. There was a local festival over in the next town that they dropped into, once more remaining discreet as they played games, listened to music, danced, and ate to their hearts' content. Usagi was content to stay there all day, even underneath the full glare of an autumn sun—and when that sun sank, the sky was lit up by fireworks. As she stared up into the bright explosives, Mamoru noticed that she was crying—perhaps only out of happiness, but perhaps from something else.
"You okay?" he said, taking her hand. She smiled through a pained expression and nodded.
"Yeah, of course. This is the happiest I've ever been, right at this moment."
He felt the desire to kiss her, and put his lips to her cheek.
"You know you can tell me anything, Usagi."
"I know," she whispered, knowing she could not escape the inevitable for long. She scooted closer to him and returned his kiss. "But for right now...I want to..."
They looked into each other's eyes., and she wept again. He held her, not sure what else to do.
"Come on, you're missing the fireworks. They look so beautiful reflected in your eyes."
"So corny," she grinned, wiping the tears away as she resumed her vigil. Once the last flare had erupted, Usagi knew her party was over. They found a place to stay for the night, and before turning in, she gathered Ami, Makoto, Minako, and Rei together in private, and told them of her pregnancy. She promised to tell Mamoru "later", wanting it to be just between them. Her friends had quite a lot to say in the meantime, but were generally gracious about the matter. They offered their support, as always, and went to bed, conflicted with excitement and anxiety. In the morning, after breakfast, Usagi gathered everyone once again.
"So," she exclaimed as cheerfully as she could, "did everyone have a good time yesterday?" The consensus was unanimously in the positive.
"I must admit, I needed that," Michiru conceded.
"Yes, thank you for suggesting it," Hotaru added. Makoto ribbed Rei.
"I gotta admit, you Fire Nation people know how to have fun. Maybe you could come over to Omashu sometime and see how us Earth Kingdom people cut loose!"
"Maybe I will," Rei replied with a smirk. The floodgates opened and the group chatted about the good times they had had yesterday, and that led to talking about all of the adventures they had partaken in over the last few years. The phrase "we'll look back on this one day and laugh" was never truer, as even the direst situations managed to draw out proud smiles and boisterous jokes.
"Seriously!" Minako exclaimed. "It fell right on top of her! And she barely had a scratch on her!"
"I thought I was going to die every time I took a step on that rickety old bridge!" Rei fretted.
"So then I threw a tree at em'! Yeah, a whole tree!"
"I still can't believe Usagi tricked me into breathing fire."
"Usagi probably stepped on my feet more than I stepped on hers, to be honest."
"Remember the time when we all got caught by those Fomoriians?"
"Wan Shi Tong's library was amazing! You should go visit sometime."
"And then I started drawing water out of the ice giant..."
"I'm never riding another donkeydillo as long as I live."
"And then I said, 'holy cow, I'm on the prow'!"
"Yeah, she called me a weasel-faced snotrag, right in front of Motoki and Unazuki!"
"But then I snagged that spirit in a bunch of tree branches! I think that was the first time any of us saw a Lightbringer."
"Still trying to scrub the stench off from that Spirit of Decay!"
"Remember when Suen's friends came to our rescue when we fought that army?"
"I wonder if she'd ever cook firefly gruel again."
"So then I followed this strange black cat, and lo and behold, I run into her family!"
"Do you remember when... Remember the time we... And then, we... But then I..."
Usagi smiled sweetly as her friends reminisced, and shed bittersweet tears. Hotaru heard her sniffling and looked over.
"Um...Usagi? Are you okay?" Everyone stopped talking and looked at the Avatar. She wiped her eyes, choking on the overflowing emotions.
"Yeah, I'm fine. I just wanted to see everyone one more time. This...might be the last time Team Avatar gets together like this."
"Wait, what do you mean?" Makoto blurted. "Are you breaking up the team?"
Usagi hesitated.
"Maybe I should." She swallowed and explained herself. "Look, I'm almost completely recovered. I can walk around without any help, I can bend, I can even put up with the light better. Pretty soon it'll be back to the old grind for me."
"But that's no reason for us to split up," Rei said. Usagi nodded and sniffled.
"Well...Makoto's going on her honeymoon, but after that, she'll be Queen of Omashu for real. She'll have a whole country to run along with Motoki, and...they're thinking of having a kid. You won't have time for anything else."
"Usagi," Makoto muttered hesitantly, "you know I'll always..."
"And Mina and Ami are in Omashu, helping her, but soon they'll probably be going all over the world, helping people get their lives back on track. Rei, you...you'll probably want to go back to the Fire Nation to help Kotono and Ittou, and...and hey, if that doesn't work out, you could always follow your dream and be a singer."
"Oh, come on!" she spat, turning furiously red. "L-like I'd ever have a chance! I mean, it's kind of embarrassing..."
"Don't sell yourself short," Usagi said. She then smiled at Hotaru. "You're going to school and dating my brother; Haruka and Michiru, you..."
"I think we understand what you mean," Michiru said gently. "You want all of us to lead our own lives from now on. Well, you're certainly strong enough to hold up on your own."
"But that doesn't mean we won't come running if you need us," said Haruka, crossing her arms. She pointed to herself and added, "And you know how fast I can go. Just say the word and I'll be there."
"That goes for all of us," Ami said. Usagi nodded, weeping some more.
"I know. But I think this is the best thing for all of us. Now that Iblis is gone and the world's regained its balance, we all have different goals. We can...really live life the way we want to."
"And what does that entail for you?" Mamoru said. Usagi sniffled and brightened a little.
"I already have that figured out. I have to tend to the needs of the world, right? Well, suppose the needs of Ba Sing Se involved the King visiting other countries, making new alliances and strengthening old ones? He'd...definitely run into the Avatar wherever he went, wouldn't he?"
A slow smile spread across Mamoru's face as he realized what Usagi was going for.
"He would. And I would be glad of the meeting."
"I mean, we wouldn't go everywhere. You'd want to do things by yourself every now and then, and so would I. Just like everyone here. But we'd...we'd find a way to be together. We'd find a...a balance." The tears came again, and all her friends embraced her.
"So this isn't goodbye," Minako said, "just...see you later."
"Yeah," Usagi whispered. The other blonde smiled and wiped tears from her eyes.
"I can live with that. But I'll be expecting letters from all of you, and so will Ami."
"Same goes for you," Rei reminded her. Gradually they all released Usagi, and each other. Haruka released a deep breath she had been holding.
"Well, I guess that's it, then. I think Michi and I are gonna slip away before things get too emotional. See ya around, buns!" She saluted lazily and extended her hand. Usagi stared at it blankly.
"You're joking, right? Come on, bring it in, sister!" She reached up for a tight embrace, startling Haruka momentarily. After a moment, a tear came to her eye, and she warmly returned Usagi's hug.
"Thank you," she whispered. "I needed that." Usagi kissed her cheek just after she released her, saying that was Haruka's reward for winning the contest, then went in to hug Michiru. Haruka shook everyone's hand, giving Makoto one last wink before Michiru rejoined her. Together they turned their backs, waved farewell, and sank below the horizon.
"Do you really think she'll be okay?" Michiru wondered. Haruka snorted.
"You're asking that now?" Michiru chuckled.
"Silly, I know. Say, was it just me, or..."
"Or what?" They paused. Michiru almost looked back.
"I thought I saw Setsuna standing there, just for a moment. Behind Usagi."
"Of course you did," Haruka said, putting a hand on the other woman's shoulder. "She's been with us the whole time. Honestly." Michiru chuckled again.
"You're right. How forgetful of me."
…...
"I'm glad I met you, Usagi," Hotaru said as she embraced the older girl. Usagi smiled.
"Same here. Go on and live the happiest life you can. And make Shingo happy, too...although I still don't know what you see in him." Hotaru simply giggled.
"Thank you," she whispered. "From the bottom of my heart, I thank you. You saved my life, and my soul, and gave me a future." Usagi merely nodded before letting her go.
"Hey, you're still a part of Team Avatar, now and forever. Now go take my brother out on another date—and make him pay for dinner!"
"I will," Hotaru laughed as she scurried off. The group waved at her until she disappeared—and then there were the worst farewells of all. The six of them had fought together, fallen in love, traveled to the four corners of the world, faced impossible odds, and forged bonds so strong that neither time nor distance nor even death itself could sever them. They were no longer friends, but family. Minako expressed this best as she threw her arms around Usagi's neck.
"Hey," she whispered, the tears flowing freely, "we're sisters now, okay? Twin sisters! We're family for real, all right?"
"Definitely," said Usagi. They looked at each other: sure enough, aside from hairstyle and minor differences, they were mirror images of the other. "I've always wanted a sister. Now Shingo's gonna have to deal with two of us!" They laughed, wept, and hugged again.
"Thank you for seeing the best in me," Minako whispered, "even when I couldn't see it myself." She kissed Usagi's cheek and slipped away to rejoin Ami. Makoto went next, giving her sister-in-arms a friendly slug on the shoulder before hugging her.
"You're the toughest person I've ever met, Usagi. You've got the biggest heart in the world and the biggest smile to match. I feel like..." She sniffled, withdrawing, turning pink. "I dunno what I'm trying to say. I guess...I feel like I can be myself when I'm around you, like I can be proud of who I am and what I like. That's...silly, I know, especially when I feel that way around so many people now, but..."
"I know what you mean," Usagi smiled. They beamed at each other. Makoto kissed her forehead and ruffled her hair a bit.
"Let me know how that kid turns out, all right? We'll set up a play-date once mine arrives!"
"Sure," Usagi said bashfully, and waved as Makoto walked off. Ami approached next, no longer shy or nervous, simply strong and graceful and overflowing with love.
"You and Mamoru should come visit my mother soon. The Aurora Borealis is scheduled to show in the coming weeks."
"Oh? What's that?" Ami blinked.
"You've never seen the Northern Lights?" Usagi shook her head. "Oh, well then you should definitely come see it, then! It's one of the most astounding displays of natural phenomenon in the world! You see, solar wind from coronal holes and coronal mass ejections disturb the magnetosphere, altering the trajectory of charged particles—"
"Ami." Usagi knew her dear friend well enough to sense when she'd start rambling, and graciously cut her off. Ami jumped, blushed, flustered, and finally laughed. She hugged Usagi as well, kissing her cheek.
"Thanks for forcing me out of my comfort zone all those times."
"And thank you for keeping us from going out of control all those times." They laughed at each other, Ami pausing just long enough to fix Makoto's meddling before joining the others. That left only Rei.
She had no idea how she'd ever be able to say good-bye to her oldest and most cherished friend. The trouble-making bun-head that had been with her from the very beginning. The selfish little whiner who had grown up to become a warrior. The only person alive who could talk her into parading around in a swimsuit in front of a group of boys, or sing in front of the entire world, or raid the palace of a tyrant. What words could she say to express how she felt? Even actions felt inadequate. In the end, Rei simply hugged her, letting the tears speak for her.
"I love you, Usagi," she whispered, trembling.
"I love you too, Rei," she said without hesitation.
She withdrew and, very politely, gave her a chaste peck on the lips.
"Be safe, my darling." And with that, Rei turned around and walked away, shaken but resolute.
I shouldn't have done that, she thought to herself, before smiling proudly. But I'm glad I did!
Usagi, slightly stunned, touched her mouth.
"So I was Rei's first kiss." She, too, smirked with pride. "Heh, neat."
Mamoru waited patiently for her. Usagi joined him without saying a word. It was some distance to the pier, so Mamoru went to a stable, picked out a good horse, paid the groom, and saddled up. He held his hand out for Usagi.
"Shall we?"
She nodded and joined him.
Run through the cold of the night
As passion burns in your heart
Ready to fight, a knife held close by your side
Like a proud wolf alone in the dark
With eyes that watch the world
And my name like a shadow
On the face of the moon
The sun shone brightly overhead, the day full of promise. Usagi held on tight as she adjusted to the galloping. In no time at all, they'd be sailing away to distant lands, working together to make the world a better place: not just for them, but for those yet unborn. She still hadn't told Mamoru about their child, and she didn't know how, when, or even if she could muster up the nerve to do it. The baby would change everything; there'd be conflict, scandal, a demanding outcry from the public. Usagi feared that one day, she'd have to choose between the man she loved, the family she desired, and the duty she must fulfill.
Broken mirror, a million shades of light
The old echo fades away
But just you and I
Can find the answer
And then, we can run to the end of the world
We can run to the end of the world
And then there was the matter of her friends. All of the nations were still reeling in the wake of Iblis's destruction. For every conflict solved, villain punished, and obstacle overcome, it seemed five more rose in their wake. There was no telling when she'd ever see them again—it might even be that today would be the last time she saw any of them, ever. If people like Oboro, Kinsei, Nephrite, Kartta, and even Bodmall could die, then nobody's safety was guaranteed, even in a world freshly restored to balance. It could be months, years even, before she saw any of them—and even then, would Team Avatar ever really be whole again? They all had their own futures to worry about now; they each had to be their own person. Usagi loved them too much to compel them to her side. She knew they all wanted to be together, always, but in the end, this really was for the best.
Right?
Cold fire clenched to my heart
In the blue of night
Torn by this pain, I paint your name in sound
And the girl of the dawn, with eyes of blue, and angel wings
The songs of the season are her only crown
Broken mirror, a million shades of light
The old echo fades away
But just you and I
Can find the answer
And then, we can run to the end of the world
We can run to the end of the world
Usagi wished she had answers. She wished they could all live happily ever after, just like in the stories, but the world moves on, cold to their feelings, changing and being changed. They would face dangers, loneliness, heartache, difficult choices, pain, misery, sorrow. They would make mistakes, have regrets, forget things, mourn for lost loved ones, and one day, look back and wonder at it all. They would grow old and die. Could time really mend all of that, she wondered. She clutched her pendant, and it gave her only silence.
We met in the mist of morning
And parted deep in the night
Broken sword and shield, and tears that never fall
But run through the heart
Washed away by the darkest water
The world is peaceful and still
But those were problems for tomorrow. Right now, she squeezed her arms around Mamoru, dug her face into his back, the wind whipping her hair, the scent of roses in the air. He looked back at her and smiled, and she smiled as well. The future could be frightening, uncertain, unpredictable, even grim, but as for the present, ah: she was utterly and completely happy. Let the problems of the world come later: she was with the man she loved, and for the moment, that was perfection.
Broken mirror, a million shades of light
The old echo fades away
But just you and I
Can find the answer
And then, we can run to the end of the world
We can run to the end of the world
Run to the end of the world
The End of Book Three: Death
"Small Two of Pieces" was composed by Yasunori Mitsuda, and sung by Joanne Hogg.
…...
Fong Wei
Surpassed his family's expectations with his carpet business. Remained friends with Kotono and Unazuki.
Captain Scum
A statue of him still graces the royal gardens of Omashu. The remaining crew members were officially pardoned and joined Mamoru's navy, where they served diligently.
Hakim
Returned to his commune to assist in teaching a new generation of sand-benders. Later became instrumental in terraforming much of the southern Earth Kingdom.
Wathohuck
Fell in the battle with Iblis. The new chief of the Southern Water Tribe strives to live up to his predecessor's reputation.
Darryl and Rubella Hollowbog
Returned to the Swamplands to raise their six children in the ways of water-bending. A seventh child was soon on the way!
Sifu Uta
Returned to the Southern Air temple, where she remains in touch with Ishtar. Although she extended an invitation for Haruka to join their order, the young woman politely refused.
Sifu Ho Hsien-ku
Fell in the battle with Iblis. With her ashes scattered to the wind, a new sifu was elected after four days of mourning and festivities.
Ail and Ann
Continued serving Endymion as two of the last Fomoriians in existence. Their future children would ensure that the ancient race lived on for another generation.
Iblis
Most of Sumeru Island crumbled into the sea, soon to become lost behind the veil of mythology, along with everyone associated with it.
Vainamoinen
His staff became a tree, which thrives to this day. One day, Toph Beifong would call it her home.
Mathena
Was offered positions in several navies, but preferred living life on her own terms. Plans to sail around the entire world one day.
Sifu Boris
Officially became a sifu of the Eastern Air Nomads, guiding them with compassion and mercy. Linka remains a friendly thorn in her cousin's side.
An Shu
Fell in the battle with Iblis. Wan Shi Tong personally buried him close to the library which he was so fond of.
Yuichiro Kumada
Spent several years working for Kasei Hikawa. Also spent several years pursuing Rei, though whether this bore any fruit remains unrecorded. Became a renowned singer later in life.
Reika Nishimura
Became an exemplary Tellurian Captain, and an example for future generations to follow. Unfortunately, the order would be completely disbanded centuries before the birth of King Bumi...
Kwame Olowe
Accepted a position as Hakim's assistant. Spent many years helping cultivate the southern Earth Kingdom alongside his friends.
Linka Szabo
Accepted a position as assistant sifu under Boris. Worked tirelessly to repair the damage done by Mishka and Kunzite alongside her friends.
Joriah Wheeler
Accepted a position as captain of the guard under Kuni and Iku. Is usually seen working with Kotono, who has grown to trust him, and became a friendly rival with Ittou. His relationship with Linka has improved somewhat.
Gi Moon
Worked alongside Kwame to help restore the southern Earth Kingdom, although most people saw that as an excuse for her to be near him. Continued visiting Wan Shi Tong's library for information about Avatar Bitasu.
Ma-Ti
Became a high-ranking member of the White Lotus, where he works to deliver aid to every nation. Dreams of one day founding a medical service that works outside national borders.
Anshar
Together with his sister and her friends, he travels the world, helping those in need. Rumor has it, he later became romantically involved with a Fomoriian girl.
Nabu
Although she became a famous teacher in the Southern Water Tribe, she spends most of her time keeping her four friends in line as the voice of reason. Laughs and smiles far more than people believe.
Ishtar
Flits about capriciously, just as an air nomad would. Had multiple romantic flings, but very few of them ever become serious. Always ready with a smile!
Nergal
Returned to the Fire Nation to seek out her roots, and became a renowned academic and historian. Was never far from Marduk's side, if only so they could quarrel more easily.
Marduk
Continued her friendly rivalry with Makoto, earning fame across both Earth Kingdoms as a renowned chef. Lately, though, she's expressed an interest in construction, and plans on getting married "before Nergal can beat her to it".
Suen
Opened up a school for chi-benders. Her brother's already turning out to be a star pupil! Remains close to Usagi and Keya, and got married before any of her friends.
Apsu
The age of the Primordials ended with her passing, never to be heard from again until the end of time...
Wu Yung
Became deathly ill several years later and passed away. His successor, a man named Zhuge Liang, would prove more than capable of filling his role as Endymion's chief advisor.
Blie and Ao Xhu
Brother and sister both fell in the battle with Iblis. Their ashes were scattered to the wind, their names written in the grand tapestries of the air nomads.
Oomari
Fell in the battle with Iblis. Saeko Mizuno was offered the position of chief, but she declined. A successor was eventually found, though his methods became controversial.
Bodmall and Liath
The derwydd of the Fomoriians died at just over three-hundred twenty years old, and with her went one of the last traces of the ancient world. Liath supported Pwyll, Bodmall's successor, and easily found a marriage partner, as there were numerous suitors.
Fire Lord Kuni and Fire Lady Iku
Both rulers continued to govern the Fire Nation well; history has seen them as fair, progressive, and heroic. Unfortunately, tournaments were banned during their lifetime, and their military stagnated somewhat.
Sifu Kinsei Aino
Fell in battle with Iblis, saving countless lives in the process. When it came time to weave his name in the tapestry of air-benders, his daughter wrote a single word: Daddy.
Kasei Hikawa
Rei's grandfather remained energetic and pesky until the end of his days. Although he had few earnest students, they all became renowned fire-benders...or air-benders, in one case.
Saeko Mizuno
Although she refused the title of chieftain, Saeko remained a steadfast leader in the Northern Water Tribe, passing her skills and knowledge to everyone she could. She retired early, though, choosing to spend most of her time with her daughter. Rumor has it that she also began dating shortly after.
Nephrite
Fell in battle with Iblis. Many are those who pay homage to his statue, including Naru and Gurio.
Kunzite
Although many Northern Air Nomads do not speak his name, a few will still whisper of his greatness, and of his love for Zoicite.
Zoicite
Those under his command remained loyal naval officers to King Endymion, who later posthumously pardoned Zoicite for most of his crimes. The love he had for Kunzite is often cited as an example for the youth to follow.
Jaedite
Kotono bows to his statue every day, and always places a flower by it. She vowed to name her first son after him, should such a circumstance be met.
Queen Beryl
Although the Northern Earth Kingdom would have mixed feelings towards her for decades to come, by the time Avatar Kyoshi was born, she was barely a footnote.
Lark
Fell in the battle with Iblis. Ittou visits his grave daily. The pain of their parting would eventually heal, and the young prince would once more find love. Various animal shelters were built in his honor.
Ku Sheng
Fell in the battle with Iblis. Kotono would send money to the farming village where she grew up for decades to come, eventually turning it into one of the Fire Nation's most prosperous cities.
Suo
Went on a long journey shortly after returning from Sumeru. Upon his return, Fire Lord Kuni offered him a position in the royal navy, which he accepted.
Salamander
Fell in the battle with Iblis. It is said that a secret Thieves' Guild sprang up in the Fire Nation shortly after the fight with Iblis, presumably in her honor. After a few incidents with the military, Kotono and Ittou reorganized them into the Fire Nation's intelligence agency, the Salamanders.
Oboro
Fell in the battle with Iblis. His statue continues to shine in the Fire Nation's hall of heroes. Some still say that earthquakes are caused when his spirit engages with that of Avatar Kalkin.
Kartta
Fell in the battle with Iblis, and buried with her sword Sheeva next to Keya's school. Every student who passes it bows in respect, and fresh flowers are placed every week.
Keya
After mourning the death of her sister, she returned to her dojo, where she continues to teach fencing. One day, far in the future, a boy named Piandao would visit her school to learn the art of the sword...
Unazuki Furuhata
Became instrumental in maintaining Omashu and the Southern Earth Kingdom during the famine. Although she remained close friends with Kotono—some might say she was "a princess of one nation and the queen of another"—her greatest joy was doting on her nephews and nieces.
Luobo
True to his word, his cabbage empire overshadowed his failed radish empire, although even that would have its own share of problems...
Wan Shi Tong
Returned to his library, where he continued to collect the knowledge of the world. His greatest treasure remains a large bluish orb, which he gazes upon every so often.
The Guardian Kings
Three of the Guardian Kings would disappear and pass on into legend, while the fourth and final one waited patiently for the arrival of a certain Air Nomad Avatar...
Ittou
Spent three years training under Kasei Hikawa before returning home. Became a revered Duke Regent in his own right, and helped train a generation of elite fire-benders. Named one of his children after "a certain childhood love".
Kotono
Generally regarded as a paramount ruler of the Fire Nation, Kotono brought about a radical wave of change as one of the few non-benders to earn the title "Fire Lady". Although she did eventually marry, most would agree her true paramour was "someone close to her in the Earth Kingdom".
Motoki Furuhata
Although his contemporaries regarded him as a mediocre, indecisive ruler, future generations in Omashu would revere him as a King who "fought the worst wars so his nation could have the best peace". It is said that the blood of mother earth itself flows through his lineage.
Kenji and Ikuko Tsukino
As soon as their daughter was up and about, they too resumed their nomadic lifestyle, hopping from one city to the next in a never-ending quest to report on and record the latest news. Heads of state often competed to give them the best lodgings.
Shingo Tsukino
Grew up to become a renowned swordsman, though he refused to swear allegiance to anyone save Hotaru, whom he married. Even though his experiences matured him, he still pesters his sister.
Gurio Umino
As co-founder of the White Lotus, he became instrumental in developing the organization. His stint as the Avenging Shadow led many recruits to his side, and although most people would forget the hero, a certain young lady kept the memory alive.
Naru Osaka
The co-founder of the White Lotus helped bring many women into the organization, especially those who had been rejected from similar services. She and Avatar Usagi remained close friends for the rest of their lives.
Hotaru Tomoe
With her ties to the Death-Bender completely severed, Hotaru was free to live life as a normal girl. She soon found her way to an academy—one coincidentally close to Keya's dojo—and upon graduation, married Shingo.
Michiru Kaioh
Disappeared to parts unknown. People have claimed to see her in the Northern Water Tribe, where she was "racing against dolphins" in the rough currents.
Haruka Tenou
After turning down the offer to join the Southern Air Temple, Haruka vanished alongside Michiru. It's been said that she frequents a certain garden in Omashu, filled with wildflowers.
Setsuna Meioh
With her tenure in Team Avatar concluded, the woman known as Setsuna vanished from the world forever. Perhaps instead of penance, she would be given mercy, and a new charge, in another world and another time...
Artemis and Luna
Artemis faithfully remained by Minako's side for the rest of his days. Luna simply remained wherever a good supply of fish could be found—usually with Hotaru, but sometimes, if she felt like it, with Usagi.
…...
Ami Mizuno
Travels the world alongside Minako, healing the scars of both a frail world and her one true love.
Makoto Kino
Finally went on her honeymoon with Motoki, visiting the Southern Water Tribe just as she had planned. Her first child was born several months after they returned.
Minako Aino
With Ami by her side, Minako slowly but surely returned to the light, although her experiences changed her forever.
Rei Hino
Went back to a quiet life as priestess of Hikawa Temple. Sometimes, when she's alone, she sings to herself.
Mamoru Chiba
Rode off into the horizon with his bride. He hopes to prove himself worthy of his kingship and his future family.
Usagi Tsukino
Before riding off with Mamoru, the Avatar respectfully requested her father to stop recording her life at this point, so her fate will always remain a mystery. I, Kenji Tsukino, dedicate this final account to her, to all those she knew and loved, and to any who should read this. May they, and you, always find balance, if not happiness, and may you always stand on the side of love and justice.
However...
If by any chance, this ending does not satisfy those who have read the chronicle of my daughter and her friends—if there are any who truly wishes to know of their fate—then I will, in secret and unofficially, provide one last addendum. After all, as we all know, no story ever truly ends.