AVATAR: EMPIRE OF ICE
BOOK 2: TRADE
CHAPTER 16: THE PRICE
We fade in on the icy blue water of the north, rippling in the sun. A few moments pass, then we hear the unmistakable sound of a ship cutting through the water.
And then a bit of music starts. A mellow tune, like the plucking of an acoustic guitar. This ship is headed through a narrow pass between two enormous glaciers. There are soldiers on each side, bowing and calling out.
The ship presses onward. To its right, the watchtower passes by. The soldiers atop the watchtower pay no mind, preferring to play cards.
Then we cut to a shot from behind the ship as it passes under an enormous banner.
'Welcome to Aikira'
The music continues as we cut to the front of this ship, and It ain't The Lion Turtle. A man steps out and we see only his fancy shoes at first. Then we slowly pan up and see that the shoes belong to General Inuk. (Remember him?) Though at this point he's only Captain Inuk.
He takes a deep breath through his nostrils, then he exhales with gusto.
Inuk
Mm… The scent of these glaciers. These… Stoic giants of the sea. Simply marvelous!
We see Lohkan, Inuk's right hand man, standing to the side.
Lohkan
They certainly are, Captain.
Inuk
Come, let us discuss the itinerary for our arrival.
Inuk leads Lohkan into the cabin of the ship.
We cut to the sun beginning to set behind twisted spires of ice. Inuk's ship is finally docking at the grand port of Aikira. Now the plucking has become strumming of the guitar in a paradoxically Hawaiian style, despite the frigid weather.
Inuk is walking through the greeting square of Aikira with a look of wonder on his face. Some servants carry his luggage in the background.
Inuk
My word. It's everything they said it was.
We see them passing through abstract, peeling spires of ice, giving the impression of a frozen forest.
Lohkan too is gazing with wonder at this city.
Inuk
And more.
We hear a sharp opera note, sung by a formidable woman, then we cut to later that night, as Inuk sits front row watching the performance. He has tears in his eyes.
The woman sings her heart out.
Then we cut to even later that night. The opera music has faded into the distant sound of a nightcap.
Inuk is in the alley between a tavern and a temple to Nuaka Sia. A woman from Aikira named Su is standing across from him, her eyebrow raised.
Inuk
I profess that my interests lie… In a less sophisticated realm.
Su
How surprising. A man revealing his inner thoughts. I can only guess where they lead…
Inuk
(Grinning) You ladies of moonlight island.
Su smiles and blushes.
Inuk
You always sniff it from a mile away.
Su
Because it's something out of a cheap perfume shop. Spiked with ambergris.
Inuk
Mmm. Keep talking that way and I may invite you in.
Su
I could say anything I want and you would invite me in.
Inuk nods. Then Su turns her gaze toward the sky.
Su
Look.
Inuk gazes up as well, and the camera pans up to reveal an aurora lighting up the sky.
Then we fade to a cloudy morning. Inuk is in his traveler's suite, ironing his formal clothes with waterbending. Then he has his airbender servant dry them out.
Inuk puts on his formal clothing and heads out of the apartment.
We see a young King Kobo, sitting on a canoe, tied to the side of a canal. He waves as Captain Inuk approaches from the walkway. Captain Inuk runs in joy towards the canal. He descends the stairs and then climbs aboard Kobo's little canoe.
We cut to moments later.
Inuk
I've never seen anything like it. Truly.
Kobo nods, admiring the city that he inherited.
Kobo
As you know, we are fiercely devoted to our mother moon, Nuaka Sia, here on her island. Part of that charm is due to a firm stance against the… Aesthetics of the Empire.
Inuk
Of course. Of course.
Kobo
It's the only way we can maintain our heritage.
Inuk
I respect your heritage more than you know, King Kobo. In fact, there are times when I wish I could throw it all away, and become a… Fishmonger of Moonlight island.
Kobo smiles politely, but avoids responding.
Inuk
But, more seriously. I am honored to be here and to be treated as a guest.
Kobo
I've always liked you, Captain Inuk. You've shown a great deal of respect for me over the years. I hope all is well? (Inuk nods) And your wife's health?
Inuk looks down, rubbing his neck.
Inuk
Unfortunately, her pain continues. That's why she was unable to join me…
Kobo
Oh. I'm sorry to hear that.
Inuk sighs, looking away. The ship passes by a strange sculpture of a fish with arms and legs, holding up the entire world. There are crowds of people on both sides of the canal, walking around, chatting, playing musical instruments. Inuk stares at the sculpture until it disappears from his view.
Inuk
Chance plays such a strange role in our lives. Does it not?
Kobo nods in agreement. But he gets distracted, playing with his necklace.
Inuk
That's why I think you should consider strengthening the relationship between our two tribes.
Kobo
(Raises his eyebrow) Where did this come from?
Inuk
Chance. Ten years ago, if I hadn't been blown so off-course by that storm, your men never would have captured me. And we never would have met.
Kobo
I suppose that's true…
Inuk
So, let's take another chance, my friend. The Empire is changing. Atakui is on the throne now. And he is as different from his predecessor as a tree is from a tidal wave. Besides, need I mention the obvious?
Kobo narrows his eyes, listening. Inuk leans in to talk quietly.
Inuk
Now that the Avatar is gone, nobody stands in our way. And nobody would stand in yours, either.
Kobo
But, you forget. We're not interested in expansion.
Inuk smiles and shakes his head.
Inuk
Kobo… This isn't about grabbing land. No, no, no… This is about shaping the future. This is about creating a unified trade network benefitting the entire northern economy. It's everything our ancestors dreamed about.
We see the reflection of the two men in the water. Kobo keeps playing with his necklace. Then we cut to a close up of it.
Hanging from the necklace is a chunk of geminite, found only in Tang's fortress.
Kobo
You've given me a lot to think about, Inuk.
Inuk
Then I've done my duty.
Inuk is watching as the royal palace comes into view. A modernist, twisting ice fortress. Standing on the bank of the canal is Queen Tara, holding something in her arms.
Kobo
I'd like you to meet someone.
Kobo and Inuk disembark and walk onto the bank. Tara meets them there and Inuk bows deeply.
Inuk
Queen Tara. A pleasure to see you again.
Tara smiles.
Tara
Likewise, Captain Inuk.
Inuk
(Walking up closer) And who do we have here?
We see that Tara is holding her baby daughter in her arms. She unwraps the scarf from her face to introduce her.
Kobo
This is my daughter, Princess Ta. Say 'Hi'.
Tara
Say 'Hi', Ta.
Tara shakes Ta's arm up and down to simulate a wave. Inuk looks closer with a big grin on his face.
Inuk
Well hello, Princess Ta. It's very nice to meet you.
We cut back to baby Ta. The camera zooms in on her face, slowly… As the music starts to change…
Then we cut to Ta in the present. Snow is falling in thick clumps all around her. The music becomes dull and droning as the camera zooms back out.
Ta is back in Aikira, standing across from the ruins of the royal palace. The whole city is deserted and in shambles.
Ta looks around, taking it all in.
We hear an aggressive, pulsating tempo of percussion, and we cut to the plaza outside the east wing of the Capitol palace. The camera is panning up across a trail of bloody bootprints, all leading towards the door of the hawk dispatch.
A blue glow is emanating from the windows and from underneath the door.
BZZZZZZZZZZZZZ…
Utuwak's head is held against the door of the broom closet, Kamui's fingers pressed against his temple.
Utuwak
(Monotone) Cadet Tahno said that if I didn't cooperate, he would tell everyone my secret.
Kamui
What secret?
Utuwak
I used my shipping connections to smuggle earth colony girls into the Capitol. You know this, General. Nobody has used my services more than-
Kamui
Quiet! Enough. What happened next?
Utuwak
I attacked Cadet Tahno with the intention of killing him.
Kamui
But he got the upper hand?
Utuwak
No. He was rescued by Emperor Batua. He sent three ice daggers in my direction and one of them sliced me across the throat.
Kamui
I see… So in the end you sent the message?
Utuwak
They wouldn't leave until I did.
Kamui rolls his eyes. He lets go and Utuwak falls to the floor, shivering from the mental invasion.
Utuwak
K-Kamui… I'm sorry…
Kamui
Yeah, yeah. Tell it to your hawks.
Kamui walks out of the room and shuts the door. Utuwak tries to stand up, but he vomits all over the floor instead.
We cut to Kamui walking across the plaza. He finds the hidden door to the wine cellar, then he looks around to make sure there are no witnesses.
We cut to the inside of the wine cellar. The door opens and floods the room with light, illuminating four men who don't look like soldiers, then it closes again.
One of the men, Lu Han, lights a candle with firebending and Kumui reaches the bottom of the stairs.
The four men bow to him.
Kamui
It's like I thought. Those punks are messing with the food supply.
Lu Han
(Confused) Is this Batua's plan?
Kamui
No… (Rubbing his beard) His mind is too simple for that. Some cadet, Tahno, is calling the shots now. (Laughs) He's not the first greenhorn that saw a civil war as a ticket to a quick promotion. (Looks to the side) Korui.
A waterbender, dressed head to toe in black, steps forward.
Korui
Yes, sir.
Kamui
You still have that longboat tied up?
Korui
Of course, sir. You said to be ready at any moment.
Kamui
This is the moment. You four are my strike team. I need you to take that longboat across enemy lines before the sun comes up, the supply ship should be past the great ice gate by then.
Korui
And then what, sir?
Kamui
(Turns to Lu Han) Kill everyone on board. The traitors. Take as much food as you can fit on the longboat.
Lu Han
But… It's illegal to firebend within the city limits…
Kamui
Who makes the laws?
Lu Han nods, then he looks to the other three, motioning to them. The four men shuffle past Kamui and walk up the stairs, out of the wine cellar.
As the hatch closes, we stay on Kamui for a while, his face twisted and lit up orange from the flame.
We cut to a foot smacking into an elbow. Hakoi and Kayat are practicing martial arts in a bedroom in the west wing of the palace.
The camera slowly pans across the room and lands on Umi. She is filing her nails fastidiously. Then her eyes flick up.
The grunts and smacks of training cause her to throw her head back in annoyance.
Umi
(Groans) This schism is so boring!
Hakoi
You could get up and do something for once in your life.
Umi
I am doing something. I'm losing my mind.
Hakoi and Kayat continue fighting. The camera slowly zooms in on Umi.
Umi
(Sneering) Is this how men feel better about their lives?
Hakoi looks over at Umi, distracted.
Hakoi
Quiet! (Continues training)
Hakoi goes for a jab, but he ends up on the floor after Kayat hooks his ankle back. He ends up splayed out.
Umi laughs at Hakoi's misfortune.
Hakoi looks over at Umi in anger, but Kayat grabs him and yanks him back up on his feet. The two continue to spar.
The camera continues to zoom in on her. Umi slinks into her seat, eyes glazing over in cruelty.
Umi
Come on, Hakoi. You really think this training is going to accomplish anything?
Hakoi stops fighting and stares at the wall. Kayat gets out of form and rolls his eyes.
Kayat
Just ignore her.
Hakoi doesn't ignore her.
Umi.
You should practice peeing your pants, because that's what you're really gonna do when you see him again.
Beat.
Suddenly, Hakoi forms an ice dagger. He turns around and stomps towards Umi.
Umi
What?
Hakoi grabs Umi by the hair and pulls her off the couch.
Umi
HEY! OW!
Then Hakoi drags Umi across the floor as she kicks and screams. He pins her head against the wall and holds the ice dagger up to her throat.
Hakoi
Say it again.
Umi looks up at her brother in fear, tears streaming down her face.
Hakoi
Say it again! Mention that savage one more time!
Kayat
Hakoi!
Hakoi ignores Kayat, pushing the dagger in deeper.
Hakoi
What? Now you've got nothing to say?
Umi grits her teeth in pain, then she growls angrily and grabs the ice dagger with her hand.
Umi
I. Am. The. EMPRESS!
Kayat then bends the ice dagger away from Hakoi as his eyes widen in realization.
Umi stands up and pushes Hakoi off of her.
Umi
You dare attack your Empress?!
Hakoi backs up, mumbling.
Hakoi
I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.
Umi
(Advancing towards him) I could have you killed. I could have you drawn and quartered. I could have your guts decorating the city wall.
Hakoi is in the corner of the room, cowering with his hands in front of his head.
Hakoi
Please…
Umi is standing above him with a bitter expression.
Umi
You little worm. I am so sick of looking at your face!
Kayat
Empress! (Umi swivels to him) I know we're all feeling a little cramped, but-
Umi
YOU TOO! Oh, what I would give to see you drop dead!
Kayat's eyebrow raises in concern.
Umi walks over to the barricaded door. She starts pulling on it, jiggling it back and forth in frustration.
Umi
LET ME OUT OF HERE!
We cut to a large flag, billowing in the cold wind. The flag depicts a triptych of olives, cow-pigs, and corn.
We pan down to a man hoisting a sail on high. As he pulls the rope back, he bumps into a large barrel and the contents spill everywhere. Another sailor looks over, shocked, and watches the barrel fall over, clear liquid spilling onto the deck.
As a result, the Sailor lets go of the rope and the mast falls to the deck. He gets up and angrily looks at the situation. An entire barrel spilled. Then he looks at his buddy.
Sailor 1
The liquor was supposed to be a surprise!
Sailor 2
(Drunk) Sorry, sir! I'll just…
Sailor 2 raises his hands and bends the liquor back into the barrel.
Sailor 1
Stop! Don't do that!
Sailor 2
Why not?
Sailor 1
Because you're bringing whatever was on the bottom of our boots into the barrel!
Sailor 2
Oh.
Sailor 1
I'll get a tank…
Sailor 1 walks down into the cabin.
Off to the side of the ship, Korui and his team are stealthily bringing the longboat in. A sailor on the merchant ship absentmindedly stares to the side, then he notices the strike team.
Sailor 3
Um, guys?!
Sailor 2 is bending the hard liquor off of the deck and into a jug. Korui makes an ice platform for Lu Han to stand on. Then he raises the ice platform into the air, funneling the sea water into its construction. Suddenly, Lu Han is standing above the merchant ship.
Korui
Start with the janitor!
Lu Han gets into form and shoots a fireball at Soldier 2, but he misses. He instead hits the giant puddle of hard liquor.
BOOM!
The soldiers and the strike team get blown back by the large explosion.
We cut to a Pai Sho tile moving across the board.
Batua and Tahno are engaged in a deep battle. Batua is clearly thinking his moves through, but every time Tahno responds, he throws his hands up in the air and groans.
Batua
Why didn't I think of that?
Tahno shrugs, waiting for Batua to make his next move.
Unsure, Batua then moves his Red Maize tile 3 spaces to the left.
Batua
Good thing the real war is going better than this game.
Tahno leans back, rubbing his chin.
Tahno
You think so?
Batua
It's Kamui. The Serpent. And we're still alive. I'd say we're doing pretty good.
Tahno
I'm not so sure…
Tahno moves the Palm Frond tile diagonally across the board.
Batua
(Examining the move) Huh?
Tahno
Sure, we've had some tactical victories…
Batua
You killed my traitorous General before he killed me.
Tahno grins, narrowing his eyes.
Tahno
Yes.
Batua moves his Lilac tile up the board.
Tahno
But everyone is hungry. The only real advantage we have is that shipment of oils and livestock from the colonies…
Batua
(Confused) Right… You said this was our endgame. To starve them out.
Tahno nods, analyzing the board.
Tahno
Starving people get desperate.
Batua
So what are you saying?
Tahno grabs the Blue Lily tile.
Tahno
I'm saying…
The camera follows as Tahno pushes the tile deep into Batua's territory.
Tahno
Why don't we finish them off?
Batua blinks, and a bead of sweat falls down the side of his face. Tahno looks up at him.
Tahno
You end Kamui, and I mean end him? No one challenges your title for fifty years.
Batua narrows his eyes, his mind in all directions, then he hears Jantsi approaching with a Sour Laka on a plate.
Batua
(Rubbing his hands together) Hello, my friend.
Batua separates the pulp from the rind and chomps down on it till it explodes with juice.
Jantsi
This is the last one.
Batua
The last Laka?
Jantsi nods.
Batua
(Exhales in annoyance) Fine. We'll figure it out.
Tahno
(Alarmed) The ship.
Batua
Exactly. The ship will arrive soon and all will be well.
Tahno
It's already here.
Batua raises his eyebrow, then he turns around and sees Tahno staring out the window. Batua turns to look as well and we see the reflection of a fire in his eyes.
The enormous ship is turning to ash as it burns, chunks of wood and burning canvas falling. The thing is drifting captain-less into the dock.
Then we cut to the crew, and Kamui's pirates, all floating dead and charred on the surface of the sea.
Batua looks blank.
Batua
The-... The food…
Tahno looks as if he's disassembling his plan already. He glances to the side with a small frown.
Batua
What are we gonna do?
We see a team approach the ship. They bend water out of the sea in an effort to snuff out the raging fire, and eventually they extinguish it.
Batua runs up to the window, holding onto the frame in hope.
Batua
Maybe it didn't burn all the way through!
The team enters the boat and for a moment they disappear. Then they make their way back out in disappointment.
Batua smacks his forehead.
Batua
I'm so stupid. So so stupid! (Turns around) Why did I think I could win this?
Tahno sighs.
Tahno
Time for Plan B.
Batua looks back at Tahno, confused.
We cut to Kamui, pacing back and forth within his office. He is muttering something to himself. Then the door bursts open and General Ato strolls into the office in a huff. He goes to the fountain and washes some blood off of his hands.
Ato
Do you have any idea what I just went through?
Kamui raises his eyebrow and walks over to Ato.
Kamui
Well?
Ato
Hmm?
Kamui
The food! The operation! Where is the food?
Ato looks down and sighs, then he stands up and clears his throat.
Ato
We're receiving… Mixed reports…
Kamui
Excuse me?
Ato
But that's not why I'm here.
Kamui looks to the side in thought, and then he shakes his head.
Kamui
Those imbeciles…
Ato
Sir. We received another letter.
Ato takes the letter out of his pocket and hands it to Kamui.
Kamui takes the scroll. He snips the ribbon and unfurls the page. As his eyes scan over the words, his expression changes and he looks disappointed.
Then he lets the scroll roll back into itself with a snap.
We cut to Batua, off to the side in the War Room. He reaches to the floor and grabs his traveling bag. Then he undoes the latch and opens the bag up.
We see Batua from inside the bag. There is something that has all his attention, and his hand lingers in the air, unsure of whether to grab it or leave it be. He closes his eyes, sighing to himself.
Inside his bag lies the Imperial crown.
We cut to Umi's upside down face. She is hanging off the side of the couch, making strange sounds out of boredom.
Hakoi and Kayat are by the window, whispering amongst themselves.
Kayat
She's your sister. Nothing is going to happen.
Hakoi
You don't know that…
Suddenly, the door is unlocked and pushed open. Umi looks to the side and sees Kamui and his team. She flips over expectantly. Hakoi and Kayat also look towards him.
Kamui
(Gesturing) Follow me.
Umi scrambles off of the couch and lands on her feet.
Umi
YES! FINALLY! OH, THANK YOU DADDY!
Umi runs and hugs Kamui, who rolls his eyes and pats her on the head.
Kamui
Yes, yes. Off we go.
The three follow Kamui into the hallway.
Umi
Did we win?
Kamui
Our men fought brave and true. The spirit of the Koi runs through their veins…
Then we cut to the palace library. The floor is absolutely littered with bodies from both sides, blood splattering every corner and crevice.
Umi sees it all. She stops and gasps, before covering her eyes with her hands. Then Kamui pries her hands away.
Kamui
Look.
We cut to a close up of Umi's eyes. She slowly opens them and we see a reflection of the carnage.
Kamui
Take it all in. Your predecessor did this.
Hakoi is also looking around. He sees soldiers that look to be around his age, turned to mush.
The team walks through the library, stepping over and around the bodies.
Then we see an overhead shot of the team walking through various corridors to get to the east wing of the palace.
Several airbender servants are watching from the crack in a closet door. They see Kamui's team all shuffling through, making a beeline for the bridge.
And then we cut to two symbols above the large ornamental door.
'War Room'
Followed by a close up of Kamui, gazing up at the sign. A momentous bit of music is playing.
Jantsi is peering through the peephole. She closes the hatch, then makes her way through the large room as the camera follows her. She eventually winds up with her hand on Batua's ear.
Jantsi
(Whispering) They're here.
Batua nods. For the first time since the coronation, he is wearing the Imperial crown.
And the doors open.
Umi walks through first. The room bows to her, with calls of 'Empress' strewn about in the air. She nods accordingly, making her way to the Emperor. Batua watches her approach with anxiety, before she hugs him and gives an obligatory peck on the cheek.
Umi
Husband!
Batua
Yes… Wife…
He pushes through obvious disgust and manages to return the kiss. Umi then turns her attention from Batua to Tahno, who is standing to the side, and she looks confused.
Umi
Who is this?
Batua smirks, then he gestures for Tahno to say it himself.
Tahno
Cadet Tahno. (Bows) At your service.
Umi isn't sure what to make of Tahno. She nods, before turning around to see Kamui enter the room, followed by his team of General Ato, Admiral Kukai, and various other military men.
The elders, Kataia, Ahlaq and Takai, watch Kamui warily as he makes his way in.
The room is watching as Kamui reaches the foot of the table. He pulls out the chair and takes a seat across from Batua.
Beat.
For a moment, Batua looks terrified. But he steels himself, slowly exhaling. He looks into Kamui's eyes.
Batua
General.
Kamui looks back, barely moving a muscle.
Kamui
Your Majesty.
The two continue to eye one another. All eyes are on Batua, it seems.
But he says nothing.
Tahno leans over and whispers in Batua's ear. Then Batua nods. He clears his throat and begins.
Batua
Here it is! (Claps his hands) I think we can both agree that this war has gone on long enough. Right? So let's just end it.
Kamui seems puzzled by Batua's tone. Then he shifts his attention to Tahno, narrowing his eyes. Before he can respond, General Kukai steps in.
Kukai
A lot of good men died! Now you want peace? Tough break! That's not how this thing works!
Batua
Hey! People are starving. That's all I care about.
Kamui observes Batua, then his eyes flick over to Kukai.
Kukai
(Snorts) Oh, please! The "common man" argument?
Batua looks over to Tahno and gestures for him to come close and listen. Tahno nods and responds. Then Kukai looks outraged.
Kukai
Look at this cadet, this peasant by his side! Whispering in his ear!
Tahno points to himself in question.
Kukai
Yes, you! Am I supposed to bow down to someone of your stature? I think not!
Tahno
(Shrugs) Admiral… Peasant… We'll draw and let the Koi decide.
Tahno discreetly forms an ice dagger. Then we cut to Umi, who blinks in surprise.
Admiral Kukai narrows his eyes and snickers.
Kukai
I heard about you. Using every dirty trick in the book! Am I supposed to-
Kamui
Quiet!
Kukai looks over at Kamui in shock.
Kamui
Every dirty trick in the book… You would do less for your Empire? For your Emperor?
Kukai
What?! I don't- That doesn't even-
Kamui
Get out of my sight.
Kukai's face goes red. Then he mutters something and walks out of the room. Kamui turns to Tahno.
Kamui
I also heard about your skills on the battlefield. If what they're saying is true, you will make a fine addition to our Imperial Army.
Tahno smiles and bows. Then Kamui turns his attention back to Batua.
Kamui
Very well. I accept your terms, Emperor Batua.
Batua nods, trying to remain stoic.
Kamui
On one condition.
Beat.
Batua raises his eyebrow.
Kamui
Kukai was right about one thing. Blood has been spilled. But I don't blame you, Cadet Tahno, nor do I blame anyone else who took up arms for their Emperor. No… There is only one who is to blame for all this. (Looks at Batua) Your mother.
Batua's eyes widen. His hands ball up into fists. And Kamui briefly smiles, but he relents.
Kamui
Don't worry.
Batua
What are you talking about?
Kamui
Your mother, hot tempered as she is, is still the Empress. (Umi looks upset) The Empress mother, that is. The point is, I don't think any more bloodshed is necessary.
Batua's hands relax, but he still looks wary.
Kamui
However, she cannot be allowed to return to the Capitol.
Batua
What? This is her home! Maybe after a certain period of time…
Kamui narrows his eyes.
Kamui
Emperor… That is the price for her treason, and it is quite generous.
Tahno leans over and whispers in Batua's ear again.
Tahno
You won. Stop fighting.
Umi notices this from the crowd. She narrows her eyes. Batua nods and looks back at Kamui.
Batua
Okay. Fine. I accept your terms.
And the room applauds.
But Batua and Kamui are still staring daggers at each other.
The war room settles into a celebration as drinks are brought out and everyone breaks off into groups.
Eventually, Kamui stands up and walks past Batua. As he passes, his hand brushes Batua's shoulder.
Kamui
Well done.
Then Kamui departs from his view. Batua sits there for a moment, before he lifts his crown to scratch an itch. He ends up taking the crown off, looking very relieved.
He looks around the room at all the people having conversations. And as his eyes wander, they suddenly find a target worth examination. Umi and Tahno, chatting by the map.
We cut to a closer view and Tahno directs Umi's attention to a spot on the earth continent.
Tahno
Right here. What do you see?
Umi
(Grinning) Well, I don't know… (Leans in and narrows her eyes) Looks like… Grass.
Tahno
(Shaking his head) You're not looking close enough.
Umi giggles and turns back to him.
Umi
Tell me something. Who's really in charge here? My husband? Or someone else?
She emphasizes the last word by pushing her finger into his shoulder.
Tahno grins and narrows his eyes.
Tahno
Your husband, of course.
Umi grins back. Batua is watching them closely. He looks down and smiles, shaking his head. Then he looks back at Tahno.
Batua
Enjoy.
Batua then realizes something. He's not the only one who has their eyes on Tahno and Umi. It seems like the entire room is watching them. And then some of them glance back in Batua's direction.
Batua doesn't know what to make of this. He nervously places the crown back on his head.
The conversations slowly drown out everything else. The camera slowly pulls out. This is Batua's Empire, but he sits alone.
Then we cut to a wooden ball spinning around a circular board. Around and around and around it goes.
Zamuto Phong is watching. His eyes follow the ball, going around and around and around along with it, until it eventually comes to a stop.
Dealer
Kraken.
Indeed, the ball sits upon an illustration of the infamous monster. Zamuto looks surprised.
Zamuto
Shoot.
We see a card in his hand, depicting the Sea Serpent. Then we cut to the same illustration on the game board. The Serpent is two spaces away from the Kraken.
Dealer
Sorry, sir.
And with that, the Dealer swipes all of Zamuto's chips away from him. Zamuto smiles and taps his fingers on the table, before standing up.
Zamuto
Aw, well… Consider it a donation!
Zamuto walks away from the table, and as the camera pulls out, we see he is in a large casino complex on the island of Kiyuga.
We cut to Zamuto in repose on a canvas beach chair, looking out at the sea. The sun sets before him, squashing down into a bloody, purple fruit, peeking out from behind the horizon.
A servant comes up from behind Zamuto, placing a coconut into his hand. The coconut has a straw poking out of the top. Zamuto sips something through the straw.
Servant
Will there be anything else, sir?
He shakes his head and the servant disappears. Zamuto continues looking out at the sea, faintly humming a song and sipping on his drink.
He turns to the left, a large stone wall jutting out of the sand. On the wall is a sundial, nearly useless now. He turns back to the sea.
And then the silhouette of a ship creaks by, blotting out the sun.
We cut to later. Zamuto is eating a dinner of fish and vegetables at a table along with various guests and acquaintances. A venomous mid tempo bit of music is playing, and we don't quite hear what Zamuto is talking about, until we do.
Leilin
Playing the small time, I hear?
Zamuto
(Shrugs) Yeah, well… I have to recoup my investment on the house.
Leilin
The one your daughter… Um… Singed?
Zamuto
Torched. I mean, the resale value alone…
Leilin
(In the middle of stuffing various foodstuffs in his face) Don't you have, like… Four houses?
Zamuto
This one was my favorite.
Leilin nods and continues to stuff his face. Zamuto looks over in annoyance, then he gingerly eats some shrimp.
Suddenly, a messenger holding a large duffel bag runs up to the table.
Messenger
Fellas, fellas! Let me formally welcome y'all to the Grand Kiyuga Gaming Hall. Is everything to your liking?
Zamuto
Yes, yes. We've been here for some time.
Messenger
Splendid. And how is the food?
Zamuto
We didn't come here for the food.
The Messenger looks across the table at all of the anxious faces, then he nods and clears his throat.
Messenger
Alrighty then. Well, I have good news for someone. Word just got back from Tang's Fortress.
Zamuto
And?
The messenger takes out a card, reading it carefully.
Messenger
Leilin Zuan. Congratulations. (He picks up the duffle bag and hands it to Leilin) You just won forty thousand Kue.
Zamuto
What?!
Leilin happily takes the money while the rest of the table is in an uproar. The messenger bows and leaves them to it.
Zamuto
You have got to be kidding me!
Leilin
I just thought, what's four hundred Kue?! I didn't even expect a return!
Zamuto angrily grabs Leilin by the collar.
Zamuto
You bet against the Empire?
Leilin
Yeah!
Zamuto
Why?
Leilin
They gotta lose sometime, right?
Zamuto lets go of his collar and Leilin stuffs more food into his face. Zamuto then narrows his eyes.
Zamuto
Two centuries and they haven't lost… And I'm here eating shrimp?
Leilin looks over with a confused expression. Zamuto then pushes his food away and stands up.
Leilin
Where are you going?
Zamuto
Four hundred Kue?! I could have bought myself a damn island!
Zamuto walks away from the table, leaving his pals behind.
Later, Zamuto is lying on the bed in his room. An earthbender is next to him, cleaning the table. Zamuto turns his attention to the earthbender, narrowing his eyes.
Zamuto
Hey.
The earthbender looks back at Zamuto, taking a pause.
EB
Yes, sir?
Zamuto
What do you know about Tang's Fortress?
The EB shrugs and shakes his head.
EB
What is that?
Zamuto
It's a fortress… Earthbenders, like you.
EB
(Nodding) Alright, sir.
The EB continues to clean the table.
Zamuto
They made a fool out of the Empire is what I'm hearing. Got ninety elite soldiers to walk into a hole.
The EB raises his eyebrow, intrigued.
Zamuto
But who knows, right? It's just gossip.
The EB nods his head.
Zamuto
Still though… Makes you wonder…
EB
Wonder what, sir?
Zamuto is about to speak, but a hawk descends from the sky and lands on the balcony with a squawk. Zamuto and the EB look over in surprise. Then the EB beckons the hawk to come closer, before taking a letter out of its pouch.
EB
Letter for you, sir.
Zamuto
Uhuh…
EB
(Reading the seal) From Kanato and Riko of the Imperial Investigative Task Force.
Zamuto
(Rolls his eyes) Right… I gave my daughter this stupid mission because she destroyed my house and to be honest I was pretty upset... But now she expects me to do all the heavy lifting. I tell ya…
EB
Sir?
Zamuto
Just open it up and tell me what it says.
The EB slices through the letter and unfurls the scroll. Then he examines it.
EB
'On the second week of the fourth month. The Princess is en route to Moonlight Island'
Zamuto raises his eyebrows and nods.
The sound of a howling wind pipes in before it cuts.
The EB puts down the note and looks at Zamuto. Zamuto puts his hands behind his head and sighs, closing his eyes.
Zamuto
Figures…
We cut to the bitter snow, falling endlessly on sharp contours of shattered ice.
We pan across the deserted plaza of Aikira, finding Ta, Lao, Oni, Ayana and Teepo as miniatures moving across the vast frozen landscape.
Then we cut to a startling shot that can only be a flashback. Ta is sitting in her room across from a mirror brushing her hair. Candles flicker gently in the background.
The hairbrush is still on the table.
Teepo lights up the room with a small flame. Ta takes one glance at her old bedroom and moves them along.
Lao stares up at an illustration on the wall of a younger Ta.
The group continues to walk through the deserted palace, room to room.
We see another flashback. Ta is standing outside the door to her parent's bedroom, eavesdropping on the King and Queen.
Tara
Please, listen. It could be a help.
Kobo
I am not interested in the kind of help they are offering.
Tara
But, Kobo, we're desperate!
Kobo looms over Tara, imperiously looking down at her.
Kobo
Desperate?! You don't know the meaning of the word! But you will when they come!
Ta's eyes widen, looking frightened.
In the present, Teepo illuminates the master bedroom. Ta and Lao walk around, searching for anything, a clue or a sign. They find nothing. They meet in the middle and Lao puts her hand on Ta's shoulder.
Lao
You alright?
Ta nods with a sigh. Then she shakes her head.
Ta
Sometimes I think… Batua wasn't so bad, was he?
Lao raises her eyebrow.
Ta
I could have done it… (Ta glances at an illustration of her parents) But they didn't even give me a chance. They decided for me.
Lao
You were miserable, Ta.
Ta looks down.
Ta
Yeah… I thought they were waiting for me to save them…
We cut to a wide shot of the empty room.
Then we cut to the group walking on a bridge over a stopped canal. The entrance to the downtown area of the city is completely snowed over. Ta motions to Oni.
Ta
Help me out, here.
Oni nods and the two get into position. With great effort, they bend the massive piles of ice that are blocking the entrance. They lift the pieces up and out of the way. Eventually the entrance is clear again and they walk into the city proper.
We see a familiar face. Su, the barmaid from Aikira. She is in the same tavern, boiling up something in a pot. She is sporting an eyepatch now and several missing fingers. When she sees the group, she immediately hides herself, thinking them to be Kamakoi soldiers. But then she hears Ta's voice.
Ta
Hello?! Is anybody here?! Hello?!
Su comes out from her hiding place in shock and sticks her head out of the window.
Su
Princess?!
Ta turns around in shock, looking back at Su.
We cut to a little later. Su and the group are sitting around a fire, behind the tavern.
Su
(Shaking her head) They're gone. Everyone is.
Ta
What are you talking about?
Su
During the second wave. The bluecoats took your folks and all the other nobles and put them on a ship. Said they were headed to a silver mine.
Ta's eyes widen and a grim piece of music plays.
Su
Not any different here, though… Everything they touch becomes a mine. They needed more tools, more ships, more food, more labor. This wasn't an investment. They stripped this place to the bones. (Beat) Then, when there was nothing more to take… They left too…
Ta
And what about you?
Su looks down and snaps a twig, throwing it in the fire.
Su
They kept some women around… To cook their dinner…
The camera pans across the group's horrified faces. Then Su looks at Ta.
Su
Why are you here, Ta? Why did you come back?
Ta doesn't have a response. She lets the wind speak for her.
We cut to Jang, walking through the underground catacombs of Tang's fortress, carrying a length of string in his hand.
He walks by the large hole, which is being filled up again by a team of earthbenders. Then he passes Yamani, who is observing.
Yamani spots Jang, then she quickly looks away. Jang does the same thing.
He reaches the small cavern where he is staying and finds Kato sitting on the floor, waiting for him.
Jang
Um. Good Morning. Can I help you?
Kato
Yes. (Beat) Maybe.
Jang
Hmm…
Kato
I had something to ask you but I forgot what it was.
Jang
I see…
Kato nods.
Moments later, Jang is tying the string around a line of hot peppers, forming a knot around the stem of each. Then when he has 5 hot peppers tied up, he pulls the string taut between two hooks on opposite walls of the cavern. He leaves the peppers hanging in the air.
Jang
You want to learn my secret curing technique?
Kato
Another time.
Jang shrugs and starts to work on the next string. Kato is watching him, not knowing what to say. Then Jang finally turns to look at him.
Jang
Well, I suppose it's good you came. I want to tell you something, Kato.
Kato looks back, curious but also nervous.
Jang
I want to tell you… (Clears his throat) That I give up. Officially.
Kato
You give up?
Jang
Look, this is difficult for me to say. (He drops the peppers and stands up) I thought… It was my destiny to save the world. But I was wrong… And it's fine! It's fine! How many people can claim such a destiny, right? Besides the Avatar? And even she-... (Sighs) The point is, I give up. I'm never going to ask you to do anything again, or try to influence you… I want you to live your own life.
Kato takes this in for a moment, then he nods.
Kato
Alright.
Jang nods back, then he picks the string up and starts tying another group of peppers together.
Kato
So… What will you do now?
Jang
(Shrugs) What does a soldier do? They follow the leader. (Ties a knot) And this Emperor Tang seems like a pretty good bet to me.
Kato nods.
Jang
What about you, Kato?
The camera zooms in on Kato, then he looks down at one of the hot peppers.
Kato
I've decided something. I'm not Kato anymore.
A heap of pepper slices are tossed into the vegetable stir fry. Sizzling.
Jinhai
Mushi! That's too much!
We cut to the two of them, standing over a public fire pit on the surface.
Kato
I thought you wanted to eat like a firebender!
Jinhai
Yes, but I would like to live on as an earthbender!
Kato
(Laughs) You're gonna love it.
Kato sticks a spoon in the pan and stirs it around.
We cut to a few moments later. Kato and Jinhai are about to eat their first bites. They look at each other for a moment, then they take the plunge.
At first they just sit there, chewing and waiting, and for a moment it seems like they're in the clear.
Then we cut to seconds later. They both have bright red faces, sweating and screaming and grasping for the water. Jinhai shakes her first at the sky.
Jinhai
Damn you, hot peppers!
We pan up to the moon and they continue to scream in the distance.
Then we cut to a pair of stone cups clinking. Beer sloshes out of the cup before Kato takes a sip. Jinhai takes a bigger sip, and then another.
The two have found themselves back home and Kato is drumming on the table.
Kato
That's a traditional piece of music from our people.
Jinhai tilts her head, narrowing her eyes.
Jinhai
Is it?
Kato shakes his head.
Kato
No… Not really. I don't know anything about them…
Then he takes another sip of beer.
Jin
Yeah, I know what you mean.
Jin looks down in thought. Then her eyes glint up, before tears start to spill out of them.
Kato
Jinhai? No…
Kato stands up and walks over to her. He sticks out his hand, preparing to do something with it, but she pushes it away and shakes her head.
Jinhai
No, no, it's okay.
Then she grabs a rag and wipes her face with it.
Kato
Are you sure?
Jinhai gives Kato a wobbly smile and nods her head.
Jinhai
You don't know what you've been to me.
Kato looks back at her, unsure what she means, then he sits down across from her and waits for her to continue.
Jinhai
After my friends disappeared… My friends? My brothers. That's who they really were. After they disappeared, I was so alone… I couldn't trust anyone. And… I really thought that my life was over… (She pauses and takes a deep breath, looking into Kato's eyes) I was ready to give up, Mushi.
Kato blinks, taking this all in.
Jinhai
But you found me.
Jinhai puts her hand over his and he clasps it. He nods to her in understanding.
Jinhai
There. I told you my thing. Now you can tell me yours.
Kato
(Confused) My thing?
Jinhai
Yeah. You had something to tell me before we were interrupted.
Kato
Oh. Right… (He looks down, thinking it over, then he shakes his head) It's not important.
Jinhai
Are you sure?
Kato nods his head. Jinhai gives him a smirk, then she takes another gulp of beer. He does the same.
Jinhai then stands up and walks over to him. His eyes widen as she straddles him, putting her arms around his neck.
Jinhai
Are you ready?
Kato looks up at her for a moment, then he nods his head. She goes for a kiss and the two make out as the camera pans away…
We slowly fade to Batua, walking down the corridor with an exhausted look on his face. We cut to below and we see that there are a few soldiers on the floor. Batua just walks over them.
He unlocks his door and doesn't even bother to close it behind him.
Batua lazily takes off his coat and drags himself to bed. Feathers shoot out of the sides as he collapses onto it, and within moments he is already snoring.
Slow fade to black as some birds chirp in the background.
We fade in on a grand, stately shot of the Capitol under the midday sun. Traffic is flowing again through the northern sea, and the easy guitar is back, strumming carefully… Cautiously…
ONE MONTH LATER…
The eastern docks of the Capitol are lively again, importing and exporting. The palace plaza is full of nobles and servants, running to and fro.
The palace grounds have been scrubbed clean.
We see Jin at the marketplace with her boys, enjoying the newfound peace in the capitol. Batam watches from behind her.
Then we cut to inside the palace. The library is restored and empty. The war room is also empty, save for a few earthbenders staring at the map.
Then we cut to an overhead shot of Umi in Batua's bed. She looks upset.
Umi
You're not going to do it?
Batua is on the other side of the room, buttoning his pants.
Batua
No.
Umi rolls her eyes, then she pulls her pants back up and rolls off of the bed.
Umi
You can't talk to Kamui. You can't put a baby in me. Remind me, why are you the Emperor?
Batua takes his royal coat off of the hook and sticks his arm through it. Then he looks down at his nightstand. The stone half pendant is sitting in one of the half opened drawers.
Batua sighs.
Batua
What am I gonna say to him?
Umi
How about instead of sending Jantsi, you talk to him yourself about the… Grains… Or whatever. Soldiers moving from here to there.
Batua looks away, not responding.
Umi
Because, to be honest… It looks like you're scared of him. (Batua looks back at her) Are you?
Batua smirks and rolls his eyes, then he walks toward the door.
Umi
(Grin) Send one of your guards in here.
Batua stops and turns back around, raising his eyebrow.
Batua
What? Why?
Umi
Because you didn't finish the job.
Batua laughs in confusion, then he looks to the side, processing this, before he walks out of the room.
We stay on Umi for a moment. She narrows her eyes.
We cut to Kamui in his office. He's just sitting back in his chair, drinking wine as the camera slowly zooms in.
Then a close up. Kamui is clearly thinking about something. His eyes flick over to the drawers mounted on the wall.
Yamani's plans are sticking out like a sore thumb. Kamui stands up and begins to walk over, before he hears a knock on the door.
Kamui
(To himself) Always… (To the visitor) Who is it?
The door opens, General Ato is standing there.
Ato
Um, sir?
Kamui
Ato… I hope your wife is happy.
Ato begins to say something, rolling his hands over one another.
Ato
Look, I think- …Wait, huh?
Kamui narrows his eyes.
Kamui
She just had to show off those earrings, didn't she? And now, not a peep from Tarakano for over a month. Care to explain?
Ato
I… Don't know…
Kamui
(Sigh) He gets to have all the fun…
Ato raises his eyebrow, unsure what to say.
Kamui
Come on, out with it.
Ato
It's about Pong.
Kamui's eyes go wide.
Ato
He talked to me, and… He's done good work for us. Fabulous work. He has shown us respect. And now I think it's time that we let him go home.
Kamui
…I forgot all about Pong.
Ato
Um…
Ato looks worried. Kamui suddenly has a big grin.
Kamui
Let's pay him a visit.
We hear an almost hip hop beat as we cut to Batua, strolling through the palace plaza. He is surrounded by 10 guards, including Tahno, who is at his right side.
The guards are needed. While some of the nobles and military men and servants are happy to see him, many of them glare at the Emperor.
Two nobles are whispering to each other.
Noble1
My shoemaker's son died. So who's gonna make my shoes when he dies?
Noble2
Face it. We lost. No use whining about it.
We cut back to Batua and Tahno.
Tahno
Did you sleep well, your Majesty?
Batua
Stop calling me that. We were in the academy together…
Tahno
Okay, if you say so. How's Umi?
Ignored. Batua and his posse arrive at a little garden by the canal. Batua squats down and examines one of the stems in an array of them, growing out of the ground.
Batua
Hmm…
Tahno looks away, crossing his arms, clearly bored.
Guard2
What is it, sir?
Batua
The scroll said at this stage the leaf would turn into a dark, forest green. (Turns to Guard2) Does that look like a dark, forest green to you?
Guard2
Gee… I don't know… Maybe more of a kelp green.
We cut to a wide shot of Pong's studio. Many of his pieces are knocked over and shattered on the floor.
Pong is lying in bed, staring at the ceiling. Then he hears the door open and looks over as Kamui and Ato make their way in.
Pong blinks and gets off the bed, fixing his hair.
Pong
Oh, General. I didn't know you were stopping by…
Pong flashes a glance at Ato, who shrugs. Kamui is looking around at all the destroyed art.
Kamui
Pong. Your studio is a disaster. What happened?
Pong
Well… There's a reason you typically don't see a lot of soldiers in art galleries.
Kamui lets out a surprising giggle.
Kamui
That's good. I'll have to remember that one.
Pong briefly smiles, before he looks nervous again.
Pong
What can I do for you, sir?
He is watching Kamui skulk around his studio like a scavenger, circling the sky.
Kamui
I just had an illuminating chat with Ato. He tells me that you want to-
Kamui stops mid-sentence as he finds himself facing a knife sculpted out of his ice. His knife, in the ice hands of Kyana. She is wielding the knife with great power.
We can practically hear Pong's heart drop to the bottom of his chest.
Kamui blinks, making sense of this.
Kamui
What am I looking at, Pong?
Pong
(Sweating) Oh, that. She is a… Um… Demi-goddess from old scripture…
Kamui
Is that so?
Pong
That's right.
Kamui
What scripture?
Pong
Um… (Long pause) Thirteen.
Kamui closes his eyes, running his hands down the bridge of his nose.
Kamui
Hmm… (He looks at Pong) Because to me it looks like the traitor who stabbed me in the arm.
Pong steps back, narrowing his eyes.
Kamui
And it's good! Better than your pathetic rendering of the Emperor. I see now where your priorities truly lie!
Pong doesn't respond.
Kamui
And after this… This betrayal, you have the gall to ask me for a favor?
Pong shakes his head, then he starts to laugh, before he looks back at Kamui.
Pong
You know what? It's not worth it. I'm done.
Kamui
Pardon?
Pong
(Loud and slow) I said I am finished. I refuse to stick around and get tortured by you for another second.
Kamui is surprised. Then Pong walks up to him.
Pong
Just do it already. Kill me and get it over with.
He reaches Kamui and then sticks his chest out, pointing to it.
Pong
Right here! That's where the dagger goes, right?!
Kamui seems impressed by Pong. He stares him in his eyes, saying nothing.
Pong
DO IT!
Beat. Then Kamui gives him a toothy smirk.
Kamui
No.
Kamui turns around and walks towards the door.
Kamui
(To Ato) I'll know if he tries to leave.
Ato looks down and nods. They hear the door close behind him, before Ato turns to Pong, gesturing toward the statue of Kyana.
Ato
What is this?! Why did you make this?
We cut to Pong. He looks to the side and the camera slowly zooms in.
Pong
Out of all the soldiers and the armed guards and the mercenaries around here, it took a defenseless little lady to do the job. (Ato raises his eyebrow) Come on. Someone had to teach that guy a lesson.
Ato sighs and sits down, head in his hands.
Pong
You know it and I know it.
We cut back to Kamui, who is walking shakily through the corridor. We see a close up of his fingers twitching. Then he passes by a guard.
Guard
Are you okay, sir?
Kamui takes one look at the guard, narrowing his eyes.
Moments later, Kamui is dragging the semi-conscious Guard into a storage closet. As he places him on a ledge, the man looks around, confused.
Guard
What are you doing?
Kamui slaps him across the face.
Kamui
Shut up!
Then Kamui has his fingers on the Guard's temples. The storage closet lights up blue.
Bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz…
Kamui slowly leans in towards the stupefied Guard, speaking quietly in his ear.
Kamui
Is everyone laughing at me?
Guard
(Monotone) I couldn't tell you what everyone is doing.
Kamui rolls his eyes. Then he gazes into the Guard's head.
Kamui
Did you fight for Batua?
Guard
No.
Kamui
But you wanted to.
Guard
…Yes.
Kamui nods.
We cut to the corridor outside. Kamui opens the closet door and walks out. For a moment, we see the Guard's dagger riddled corpse in between the door and the doorframe. Then it closes shut.
Later that night, the moon is at its apex above the Capitol.
We see a ship approaching the western docks. The ship comes to a stop and a crew of guards gather around it, throwing a rope to the sailors on deck.
We cut to the guards approaching the cabin door. The door opens and a very nervous looking merchant is standing behind it.
Guard
State your business.
The merchant clears his throat, then nods.
Merchant
Package for the Empress.
Umi is in some sort of den with two other noble looking Kamakoi teenagers. The three are inhaling the smoke emanating off of a strange rock in a large underground room full of people.
A band is sitting in the center of the room, playing a strange, aggressive version of the Kamakoi music we usually hear.
Umi
You don't know what it's like, maintaining this every day. Just to keep him happy.
Teen1
You work so hard, Umi.
Umi
Following all these rules for what an Empress is.
Her friends nod.
Umi
None of it means anything. Not a thing. (Inhales) It's made up by elderly fools.
Teen1
Oh, totally. That's what I was gonna say.
Umi
(Nods, inhales) There's only sex. (Exhales) And fashion.
Teen2
And glory.
Umi looks over at Teen2
Umi
Your father would know all about that.
Teen2 widens her eyes. Then she inhales the smoke and shrugs.
Teen1
That's what I was gonna say.
We cut to Umi exiting the den a little later. She walks out into an alleyway, snapping for her two friends and they follow her to the street.
And then she discovers that Tahno is standing around the corner. Her friends stop in their tracks as she approaches him with abundant swagger.
Umi
Well, well, well…
Tahno
(Nods) Empress.
Umi
What are you doing here? (Narrows her eyes) Are you spying on me? For him?
Tahno shakes his head.
Umi
Oh, okay. So it's for you.
Tahno
(Smirks) I'm not spying, your grace. I'm simply a messenger.
Umi
Oh…
Her two friends are looking at each other with gossipy smiles.
Tahno
You've got something waiting for you at the palace.
We cut to a close up of Umi, who raises her eyebrow with intrigue.
Umi
Really?
Then we cut to a close up of a small wooden box, sitting on the side steps of the palace.
The camera pulls out as Umi approaches. She picks up the box and examines it.
Umi
'To the Empress, from Tang's Fortress'! (Laughing) Oh, yes! They're finally here!
We cut to Umi walking through the corridor. As she walks, we cut to another close up of the box.
Umi
(To herself) And I thought today was a total waste… But instead I get to try on my new earrings!
She arrives at her room, opening the door and then closing it behind her. We stay outside, staring at the door.
We hear Umi place the box on the table, then the sound of her bending water into ice.
Umi
Let's get you open, shall we?
She takes her icepick to the wooden box, prying it open.
Beat.
Then we hear Umi scream in disgust. Then we hear her vomit.
Suddenly, an uncertain, intense string score pipes in. We cut to Batua in his room, staring out the window.
Umi busts in and walks over to him.
Batua
What is it?
Umi
Let's go.
Batua
Where? (Crosses his arms) You know I'm not talking to Kamui.
Umi
Yes you are.
Umi grabs Batua by his ear and drags him out of the room.
Batua
Hey! Ow! Let go of me!
Umi continues dragging him down the hallways as he reluctantly follows.
Batua
I am the Emperor!
Now we are outside of Kamui's office. Batua sees the door and struggles again.
Batua
No! No!
Umi drags him inside and he skids to a stop in front of Kamui.
The two stare each other down.
Kamui
(Looking at Umi) What is this? Some marital-
Then Umi places the wooden box on the table in front of them and the music stops.
We flash back to the scene from episode 2.14. Tarakano is bobbing up and down in the water near Tang's fortress.
Then the sound of a rope flying through the air.
Tang
Gotcha.
We cut to black. The celebration music is heard again, but this time faint and in the background.
We sit in the darkness for a moment. Then something strikes a flint, lights an offscreen candle. The light reveals Admiral Tarakano, unconscious and tied to a chair in an underground cell, surrounded by geminite. Another offscreen strike is heard, and moments later, a cloud of smoke wafts across the frame and into Tarakano's face.
Tarakano slowly opens his eyes and groans in pain. Then he realizes that he's bound to the chair he's sitting in. On the cusp of freaking out, he looks ahead and then breathes in deeply, calming himself, forming a hint of a smile.
Tang
(Offscreen) Admiral Tarakano.
Tarakano says nothing, merely smirks at Tang.
Tang
The man who destroyed moonlight island. (Puff) Kamui's attack dog.
Still nothing.
Tang
But I've got you now. And I think any reasonable person would agree, an attack dog ought to be kept on a short leash. (He tugs at the rope, letting it snap back)
Tarakano looks around his cell. It's mostly sparse, with a ledge jutting out of the wall and not much else. There are 3 items sitting on the ledge; The candle, a canvas messenger bag, and a small wooden box.
Tarakano still doesn't answer.
We finally cut to Tang. He narrows his eyes and grabs Tarakano's face in his hand.
Tang
How does it feel to know you've been bested by a rock pusher? Does it sting?
Tarakano snorts, his smirk seemingly permanent.
Tang meets his smirk for a second, then he turns away, and for a brief moment looks genuinely hurt.
Tang
Fine. You don't want to talk? (Looks back) I'll work on you instead. Start with those fingers. Make my way up to your teeth. How about I start pulling them out one by one? Maybe you'll talk to me then.
Tarakano spits on the floor.
Tang
I'll take that as a yes.
Tang reaches inside the messenger bag for his pliers.
Tarakano
Filthy savage.
He tilts Tarakano's head back and opens his mouth. Then he grabs onto one of his teeth with the pliers. Tarakano's eyes widen.
Tarakano
Okay, okay!
Tang
You're gonna talk to me?
Tarakano nods his head. Then Tang rips out the tooth anyway.
Tarakano
AGH! (Tearing up) You animal!
Tang examines the tooth, extracting it from the grip of the pliers.
Tang
What have you been eating?
Tarakano
I'm gonna wipe the floor with your blood! With the blood of your children! With the blood of your ancestors! I'm gonna make you-
Tang
Blah blah blah…
Tarakano
You stupid rock pushing savage, let me out of this Koi forsaken chair! Now!
Tang
How about I pull another tooth? (Sticks his pliers in) What do you say?
Tarakano shakes his head and Tang pulls another one.
Tarakano
Agh! (Sobbing) PLEASE!
Tang
Yes?
Tarakano
(Screams in frustration) What do you want to know?!
Tang looks confused.
Tang
I don't want to know anything. I just want to talk.
Tarakano's eyes bug out.
Tarakano
Are you crazy?! Why in koi's name would I talk to the likes of you?!
We cut back to Tang, the camera slowly zooming in.
Tang
(Slowly) Why would you want to talk to the likes of me? (Growls in anger) Me? ME?! Who am I?! (He throws his chair against the wall) I defeated you! Rock pusher or no, I earned this conversation and yet you still deny me?!
Tarakano cackles cruelly, it turns to coughing.
Tarakano
You need daddy's approval, little boy?
Tang exhales, then he smiles a little bit. He looks back at Tarakano and shakes his head.
Tang
Sorry… Why am I allowing this to cloud my mind? Today is a good day! An important day…
Tang walks over and picks up his chair. Then he takes his bone pipe off the ledge and sits down, putting one leg over the other.
Tang
Do you read much, Admiral?
Tarakano narrows his eyes and shakes his head.
Tang
I do. (He strikes a flint and lights his pipe) My collection of reading material is perhaps only surpassed by a certain library… (Puff) I have all the classics, including 'Art, Expression, and Reason' by Lakui the Fourth.
Tarakano raises his eyebrow, his expression changing.
Tang
Yes, I have works from the Empire! The old Empire anyway… Nowadays, the only literature you'll find up there is a merchant's receipt.
Tarakano looks away, pretending not to care.
Tang
The point is… Do you know how Lakui the Fourth starts his work? (No response) He begins with a question; Is life a comedy or a tragedy? (Puff) That's a big one. The philosophers and the playwrights and all the uh… Troubled folk have been working on that one for years… (Puff) But in my heart I know… What happens today will determine the answer to that question once and for all. Comedy… Or Tragedy.
Tarakano looks down, trying desperately to escape from his own skin.
Then we cut to a startling close up of Tang.
Tang
Or maybe that's all nonsense. Maybe I just needed an opportunity… And there you were.
Tarakano
What are you talking about?!
Tang
I have so much to ask you. So many questions…
Tarakano
(Barely hiding his rage) You really want to talk? Untie me from this chair. Otherwise I have nothing to say to you.
Tang smiles.
Tang
You know that's not going to happen. You're gonna die in that chair, Tarakano.
Tarakano says nothing. For a long time, Tang just stares at him, into his eyes.
Tang
And all for a little bit of coral… Was it worth it?
Tarakano again smirks, but it doesn't last long. Eventually he looks down at the floor, defeated.
Tang stands up and walks around the room proudly. He takes another puff from his bone pipe, filling the room with smoke.
Tang
Our General Yamani. I mean, who else is gonna come up with an idea like that? Nobody. (Puff, then he starts to giggle) I wish I could have seen the look on your face as your soldiers fell to their doom! (Laughs even more) Spectacular! It took her a day, Tarakano! One day to think that up! (Tang shakes his head, then he wistfully sighs) It makes you wonder… What else could she think up in that head of hers?
Tarakano looks down in disgust. Then he has a realization.
Tarakano
General Yamani… Airbender?
Tang nods his head.
Tarakano
(Smirks) Fools…
Tang grabs Tarakano's jaw.
Tang
What's that?
Tarakano
You're all fools! And you'll get what's coming to you!
Tang starts to laugh again.
Tang
Maybe! Maybe… (Puff) Tell me something. Who made a fuss about this coral in the first place?
Tarakano
(Rolls his eyes) Kamui's daughter. The Empress Umi.
Tang
The Empress…
Tarakano
You'll never get to her.
Tang
No… I want to send her a gift, that's all. A consolation prize, if you will.
Tarakano
What? What prize?
Tang
I'll tell you… (Puff)
Tang walks over to the ledge and unwraps the canvas messenger bag. A row of knives reveal themselves as it unrolls.
Tang
…It's better than a coral earring. (Turns to Tarakano) You know those things will shrivel up within a year? (Then he turns back to the knife, picking it up) They're meant to be in the water.
We cut to Tarakano, his eyes are on Tang, unmoving.
Tang
I'm going to keep talking to you because the things in my head… They are unsuitable to be shared with anyone else in my life. So it's going to have to be you.
Tarakano groans in frustration.
Tang
My General is a genius, but she's young. And like most young folks, she's an idealist… That is why she believes it is in our best interests to de-escalate this conflict. How does that sit with you?
Tarakano
(Confused) Huh?
Then we cut to his hands, fidgeting with the knot, trying to untie it.
We cut to a closeup of the knife. The camera slowly pans up to Tang, gazing down at it. Then he turns back to Tarakano.
Tang
What would you do in my situation? After a major victory, you find yourself with a high profile hostage sitting in your dungeon. Would you let your victory speak for itself? Would you look for a peaceful way forward?
Tarakano makes a strange face and Tang shakes his head.
Tang
Yeah, I didn't think so… But that's what she would do… And you know what? She's probably right! (Puff) Yet somehow… I feel the universe pulling me in a different direction… (Long, drawn out puff) No… That's a lie. It's not the universe at all. It's me. I want to do this. I want to indulge in my worst impulses…
The camera subtly zooms in on Tarakano's focused expression.
Then we see Tang's reflection in the knife.
Tang
Tell me… What is it like? To unleash so much chaos upon the world?
We cut to a close up of Tarakano's eyes. He narrows them.
Tarakano
It's easy.
Then Tang narrows his eyes as well, before he makes his away around Tarakano. He catches him fiddling with the rope.
Tang
Oh no. We don't want that.
Tang casually shapes a projectile out of the geminite wall, then he sends it flying towards Tarakano's hands. Bones snap.
Tarakano cries out in pain. Then Tang walks around to face him once again.
Tang
Easy, huh? That's good to know!
Then starts the mad chanting.
Tarakano
O Tui and La, give me the gift! O tide, bring me to sea and make me a soldier! O blood, know that I am a Kamakoi-
Tang stuffs a sock into Tarakano's mouth. He keeps chanting, muffled.
Tang
Shut up and listen! I'm about to understand, you see? How it feels to shape the world to my own desires. Just like you!
Tarakano stops chanting and looks up at Tang with rage.
Tang
And sure, she may hate me. She may never speak to me again as long as I live… But I just can't help myself…
We cut to a close up of Tang's deranged, wondrous expression.
Tang
I can't pass up an opportunity to give the Great Ice Empire a taste of their own medicine!
Tarakano grits his teeth.
Tarakano
(Muffled) SAVAGE!
Tang nods, then he grabs Tarakano by the hair, raising the knife.
Tang
Say hi to the royal family!
Tang brings the knife down.
And we're back in the present. Kamui is staring into the open wooden box with a look of complete surprise. All we hear is a high pitched ringing sound.
Batua is in the background, vacantly staring out the window. Then the ringing slowly fades away and we hear Umi vomit again.
Then she stomps into frame, pointing at the box.
Umi
That is so not the earrings! (Wipes her mouth) Not even close!
We cut to a close up of Kamui, who looks almost sad.
Kamui
Admiral… (Then he raises his eyebrow) There's something in his mouth.
Umi
Oh yuck!
Kamui reaches inside the box and pulls out a small, blood splattered scroll. Batua and Umi are both watching with horrified, stunned faces as he unrolls it.
Batua
Well?
Umi
What does it say?
Kamui's eyes go wide, a pale, sickly expression washing over him.
Kamui
I… (Clears throat)
Umi
Come on, what does it say?!
Kamui
(Slow and shaky) 'Your Admiral spent his last day in my dungeon. I shall make a pair of earrings'... (Beat) 'Out of the teeth I ripped from his mouth.'
Batua cringes at the thought.
Kamui
'Enjoy his head as a gift and a reminder.' Signed… Emperor Tang…
Batua
Emperor?
We cut to a close up of Kamui. His eyes are full of shock and confusion. Then he slowly hangs his head low. The top of Tarakano's head is peeking out from the wooden box.
Batua
We lost? How did we… I mean… They're just…
We cut to Umi, who is staring at her father's downtrodden expression.
Umi
…Daddy?
Kamui can't look at her.
We cut to a wide shot of the room from above. A streaky, nervous bit of string music starts up as the 3 royals stand there, speechless.
Beat.
Then a close up of Kamui's hand, clutching the bloody note. His fingers tighten around it, crumpling to a pulp.
His eyes narrow, then they go dead.
Kamui lets the balled up note fall to the table, then he looks back at the wooden box and the music stops.
We cut to the palace plaza. An enormous crowd of people have gathered around the raised platform, waiting and watching.
Batua slowly walks up to the raised platform and the crowd cheers and jeers in equal measure. Some people in the crowd are still bitter about the civil war. Some soldiers are rubbing up against their former enemies.
Batua looks down at the speech written down on a card. He tries to begin.
Batua
Four months ago…
But the crowd isn't listening. Then Kamui steps forward.
Kamui
QUIET!
The crowd settles down, and Kamui gestures for Batua to continue.
Batua
Four months ago, we sent an envoy to Tang's Fortress, asking for their cooperation in a small mining operation. They refused, despite the fact that we offered them half of the profit! What's that all about? One month later, we asked them again, and again they refused us. But the demand for their goods was too high! (Batua raises his eyebrow at the next line) Kamakoi ladies love their fashion, am I right?
The ladies in the crowd look confused. Batua keeps reading from the card.
Batua
One month after that, we sent our beloved Admiral Tarakano to Tang's Fortress on a mission of peace. We simply wanted the opportunity to speak with them in person about our proposal for a fair and… Equitable… Trade agreement. One month after that…
Someone coughs. Some people are chatting. The crowd seems restless. Kamui can see this and he walks forward, shoving Batua out of the way.
Kamui
My people, here is the plain truth! This man from Tang's Fortress, this earthbender who we treated with so much kindness, spit on our proposal! He sent us Admiral Tarakano's head in a box!
The crowd gasps.
Kamui
My best friend!
Batua looks in awe at Kamui's showmanship. Then he nervously looks down at the crowd.
Kamui
This man, Tang, claims to be an Emperor, but we know there's only one Emperor in this world, right?
The crowd screams in agreement.
Kamui
That Emperor is standing right here on this stage! Right?!
The crowd agrees again.
Kamui
My fellow countrymen, I know there have been divisions amongst us, even within my own family. But let me remind you, in the face of a grave and insidious threat, there is no room for discord. Our beloved Empire, the Kamakoi, stands at the precipice of annihilation, not from our internal strife, but from a formidable adversary who seeks to humiliate us, destroy us, and trample upon our traditions! So, my fellow Kamakoi, let us rise as one, stronger and more resolute than ever. Let the world tremble at the might of our Empire, united and determined to protect all that we hold dear. For in unity, we find our strength. In unity, we secure our future. In unity, we prevail!
The crowd is screaming. Kamui is practically spitting as he orates.
Kamui
And when we descend upon our enemy like the storm itself, they will pay! Oh yes, my friends, they shall pay the ultimate price!
Wide shot. The crowd cheers.
It's war.
TO BE CONTINUED…
We slowly fade in on the inner sanctum of the southern air temple. A wide shot, demonstrating the vast splendor of the room in all its mosaics and masonry. In the center of the frame, a far away Miyuki hovers in the air. The camera is slowly, very slowly zooming in. And then a quiet noise stirs from deep beneath. A droning sound. Almost inaudible at first… And as the camera continues to zoom in and Miyuki grows ever larger in the frame, the droning gets louder and louder.
By the time we see the details in her stoic, unmoving face, the drone has become almost deafening.
Silence. Cut to black.
NEXT SEASON!