Author's Note: I figured you might like to know that brown is the color for the Nature Masters. Just like yellow for the Air Nomads, blue for the Water Tribes, green for the Earth Kingdom, and red for the Fire Nation. The Nature Masters wear mostly brown for our cloaks and robes.
Chapter 3: Earthbending Friends
We soon arrived at the Earth Kingdom city of Omashu. I landed Appa behind a hill. "Wake up, everyone," I said. "Ammon, where are we?" Aang asked me. "Over that next hill is the city Omashu," I said. I knew that Aang would be excited to be here. This was the city our friend Bumi lived. Plus, Aang loved it here. We climbed the hill to gaze upon the beautiful city. Aang explained how Bumi lived here and that he would come here to visit him. Then he started excitedly toward the city. "Wait, Aang, it might be bad if people learn you're the Avatar," Katara pointed out. "Yeah, you may be right," Aang said, turning around. "I think I have the perfect disguise for all of you," I said. "What's that?" Sokka wondered. "Dan Lee," I called to the captain of my guards. "I need some extra Nature Master cloaks." "Way ahead of you, Master," he said, throwing me the cloaks. "Perfect, well done, Alex; get the guards ready. We're going in," I said. "Um, Ammon, what are you thinking?" Katara asked. "You three are going to be disguised as Nature Masters," I proudly said. "What, how are you going to pull that off?" Aang asked. "In Nature Master Society, we have to take a few of our young ones to observe the true benders of the Elements," I explained. "So, I'll pass you, kids, off as some young ones that want to learn earthbending" "This had better work," Sokka said. We got the cloaks on them, and they did look like Nature Masters. Aang hid Momo in his cloak. Appa decided to stay behind and hide behind the hills.
Half my guards stayed behind with Appa, and the other came with us. We put on our hoods so Aang wouldn't look unusual from the rest of us. Because if anyone saw his arrows tattooed on him, it would give him away instantly. My guards surrounded the children in a protective formation, and Alex and I walked just ahead of them. We walked along the narrow path to the city. A straight drop-down was on either side of the trail, so we had to be careful not to look over. We soon reached the entrance to Omashu. The two guards there were talking to a cabbage merchant. It seemed that the cabbages weren't fresh, so they were thrown over the side of the path. The merchant cried and walked away. We stopped to take a look at things. I approached the guards alone with my hood still up. "May we help you sir?" asked one of the guards. "Yes, I think you can," I said, removing my hood. The guards gasped. "Ahh, the Head Nature Master." They bowed to me respectfully. "What may we do for you, great master?" one of them asked as he rose. I laughed and bowed back. "I just wanted to come for a visit and show some young Nature Masters some of the best Earthbenders in the world," I said and stepped back to show them the children. "Why do you have them under guard?" the other guard asked. "Oh, because I'm responsible for them if anything should happen. Better safe than sorry, those are the words I live by," I explained. "Of course, Master," the guard said. They then opened the pass into the city. "Please enjoy your visit to Omashu Master," one guard said. "Thank you, we will," I said as I walked past them. Alex, the guards, and the children followed closely behind me. My lips curled into a smile as we entered the city. The whole plan worked better than I thought.
"How did you do that?" Sokka asked, astonished. "I'm a well-respected person in most parts of the world, Sokka," I explained. "Especially here in Omashu." "Why's that," Katara asked. "Because I saved the life of the king of Omashu once," I explained. We then took the time to look at the city's beauty. The mail system was the most fantastic thing about Omashu. "Wow," Katara said. "Indeed, Katara," I said. "The beauty of Omashu is one of few that match the beauty of Ama Se." "Really," Aang asked. "Yes, Aang," I said. Sokka was watching the mail system at work. "Yep, the city's mail system covers the whole city," Aang said. "Then I guess they get their mail on time, don't they," Katara said. "They do get their mail on time. But my friend Bumi saw a better use for these shoots," Aang said. He then began to think of when he last saw Bumi.
"Hey Aang come here" Bumi said. "What?" Aang asked. "Look out there and tell what you see" "The mail system." "Ah, that's what they want you to see. You have to keep your eyes open to the possibilities," Bumi said. "I see a sled slide." "Bumi, you're a mad genius," Aang said, looking happily at his friend. They then were sliding down those shoots like the silly kids they were. Aang decided to show Katara and Sokka this fun sport. We were all in a shoot sled and were ready to slide. "Everyone ready," Aang asked. "Yeah," we all said. "Ok, here we go," Aang said. "Wait, Aang, I changed my mind," Katara said, but it was too late. Because at that moment, we were off. We slid right, then left, then right again. Then suddenly, we were flying in the air toward another shoot. Before I knew it, a sled with spears was right behind us. I earthbended us into the air onto the slide next to us. We were safe, but not for long. We were heading for an Earthbender operating the mail system. We ran into another sled that popped up in front of us. I tried to slow us down, but it was too late. We flew off the slide and crashed into a cabbage cart. "My cabbages," the merchant cried. "I hope you can pay for this." "Two cabbages, please," Aang said. "It's okay. I'll pay for all the damage we've done," I said as a guard approached us.
I pulled out a bag of money and handed it to the guard. "I need to take you to the king for him to make judgment on this," he said. We got escorted to the palace to face the king of Omashu. I knew who the king was, of course. He was Bumi, Aang's dear friend from Omashu. "Your majesty, the Head Nature Master bought these juveniles under false pretenses, and they are accused of damage done to the city and cabbages," the guard said. "Off with their heads, one for each cabbage," the merchant said, hopping from one foot to the other. "Quiet only the king can make such decisions," the guard said. "Though technically, he can't do anything to me because I'm the leader of the Nature Masters, and I did pay for everything," I pointed out, trying to get us out of this. "Well, sire, what is your decree?" the guard asked. "Throw them," Bumi began. We all held our breath. I was worried for the worst. Could there be even worse trouble than there already was? "A feast," he finished. The merchant was mad, the guard was surprised, and the children were relieved. I knew Bumi wasn't going to do anything rash. The money I offered was accepted, and the feast was prepared.
The children and I sat at one end of the table. Aang and I were in the middle, with Katara on the other side of him and Sokka on the other side of me. "It's always a pleasure to have the Head Nature Master visit my city," Bumi said, standing up. "That's why you're throwing us a feast, eh, King B?" I said. "Oh, of course," Bumi said, sitting at the other end of the table. "You with the arrows, you would like some goose." A servant offered it to Aang. "No, I'm a vegetarian," Aang said. "Well, then, how about you, young man," Bumi said, looking at Sokka. "Don't mind if I do," Sokka said, taking a drumstick. "Now tell me, Ammon, what brings you here to Omashu" Bumi asked. "Oh, I just wanted to show these young kids some of the best Earthbenders in the world," I said. "Well, then, why not take them to Ama Se?" Bumi asked, showing suspicion. "Because Nature Masters are good but not as good as the original human benders," I said. "Of course," he said. He then yawned and stretched. "I think it's time to hit the hay," he said. I suspected he was up to something. Suddenly he threw a drumstick right at Aang. However, I caught it with airbending before Aang could catch it. "Nice try, King B," I said, taking a bite from the drumstick. "Fess up, he's an Airbender, the Avatar," Bumi said, standing and pointing to Aang. "Well, what's it to you?" I said as I threw the stick down on the table. "Oh, nothing. I just thought that maybe we could have some fun," Bumi said. "Ha, what kind of fun" I inquired. "Maybe we ought to talk about this privately," Bumi suggested. "Very well," I said.
"Guards," Bumi said. Three of Bumi's guards showed up behind the children. "They'll show the children to their chamber for the night. Then in the morning, the Avatar will face three tests." Bumi said. "Alex," I called. Alex and my guards ran right into the room. "Alex go with the children and look after them while I talk with the king," I ordered. "Yes, Ammon," Alex said. "Sire, what chamber do you want us to take them to?" a guard beside Bumi asked, "The Bad Chamber or the Good Chamber?" "The Newly Refurbished Chamber," Bumi said. "Oh," the guard said, confused. "What's that again, sire?" "The chamber that once was bad. Normally we'd call it the New Chamber. Never mind" He turned forward. "Take them to the new chamber that was once bad." The guards took the children away, and Alex and my men followed. I sat down again and faced Bumi. "All right, you mad genius, you, what's cooking in your head?" I asked. "Come on, Ammon, don't you trust me?" Bumi wonder. "Bumi, I spent 100 years searching for Aang. I'm not going to lose him again, in any way, shape, or form" I said sternly. "Well, I think these tests will help prepare Aang to face the Firelord," Bumi said. "How?" I said wishing he'd just get to the point. One of Bumi's favorite things to do was beat around the bush. "They will help him to learn that sometimes he must think like a mad genius," Bumi said. "Fine, I guess I have no choice, do I? If I object, you'll persuade me one way or another" I said.
We then got to talk about the three tests would be. And the rules for how this had to be done. Bumi had to promise me that no harm would come to Aang, Katara, and Sokka. In return, I had to promise not to tell Aang who Bumi was, and to help him as little as possible. After we reached an agreement, I left to join Alex and the children. I came into an old dungeon cell that was furnished quite comfortably. I saw them pulling a fat Momo from a hole in the wall. "What were you doing?" I asked when they saw me. "We were trying to stuff Momo through there so he could get Appa" Aang explained. I laughed. "Momo obviously wasn't up to the task," I said. "No" Aang said looking down. He looked as if his life was going to end tomorrow. "Don't worry Aang, I've spoken with the king. You'll be all right," I said. "And you'll be there to help me right," Aang said as his face lit up. "I'm afraid not Aang. In return for your guys' safety, I had to promise not to help you. You'll mostly be on your own." I explained. "I won't be able to do it without you," Aang said. "You will Aang, don't worry I'll be there if something goes wrong," I said. "Besides Aang, you better get some sleep. It looks like you may need it" Katara said getting into one of the beds. There were five beds arranged in the shape of a star. I got into one of them and fell right asleep.
I woke up with Alex shaking me. "Alex, what's up?" I said, putting on my glasses. "Ammon, Katara, and Sokka are gone," he said. "What," I said, getting up. "Where are they?" I asked. "I think Bumi's got them," he said. Suddenly Aang woke up and wonder where Katara and Sokka were. Suddenly a guard came into the room. "What's happened to our friends?" I demanded. "The king will release them if the Avatar completes the tests," the guard answered. He turned to Aang, "Your staff, please." Aang gave him his staff, and the three of us followed the guard. He led us to a room where Bumi was waiting. "I hope you had a pleasant night," Bumi said. "Okay, what's up, King B? I thought we had an agreement," I said. "I'm fulfilling my end; no harm will come to your friends," Bumi said. "Now, the Avatar will now face my tests." "No," Aang said. "Give us our friends we're leaving." "I thought you might refuse, so I thought I'd give your friend some souvenirs," Bumi said. The wall to our left opened, showing Katara and Sokka in custody. The guards put a strange ring on both of them. "Those delightful rings are made of pure Genomite, a rock that grows incredibly fast. By nightfall, your friends will be completely covered in it. Terrible fate, really, I can stop it, but only if you cooperate." Sokka's ring already began to grow up his finger, and he shrieked. "Ah, it's already creeping." "I'll do as you ask," Aang said. "That does it," I said to myself. I stepped forward and broke the rings off with my bending power. I bent them into one ring in the air and had it land around my finger. "Ammon, what are you doing?" Alex asked. "I'm keeping my promise to Hakoda," I said. "What promise was that Ammon?" Katara asked. "That I would do anything, even lay down my own life to protect you and Sokka," I said. "But Ammon, what about the Genomite," Aang wondered.
"It won't do much to me; I can hold it off for a while. Plus, I've always wanted to try Genomite armor. An armor that can grow back as fast as it's damaged." I said. "Well, you might be stuck in that armor forever, and I still won't release your friends unless the Avatar can complete my tests," Bumi said. The guards took a tight grip on Katara and Sokka. "He'll pass your test with flying colors, King B," I said. The ring began to grow on my finger, but I didn't pay much attention. Off we went to the first test. We were in a cave with a waterfall. Aang was on a platform down in the cave. Meanwhile, the rest of us were on a balcony. "I've lost my lunch box key, and I'm hungry," Bumi said. "Oh, there it is." He pointed to the waterfall. The key was on a rope in the middle of the waterfall, that little sneak. "Would you mind getting it for me?" Bumi asked. Aang saw the ladder at the bottom of a rock under the fall. He hopped from one stalagmite to the next to the ladder. He tried to climb up it. However, the rushing water of the falls was very strong. "Oh, climbing up the ladder, no one thought of that before," Bumi said with a hint of sarcasm. Aang was forced back. He then tried to rush in from above. He jumped up a spun into the falls. Though of course, he failed to get to the key. He fell to hold on to a stalagmite. "That's right, keep charging in, I'm sure it'll work eventually," Bumi mockingly said. The Genomite was half way up my arm.
Seeing that sent an urge straight through Aang. He broke off the top of a stalagmite. He jumped up to the ceiling with it. He then shot it at the falls, and he gave it an air burst. The stalagmite shot straight through the falls. It caught the key and stuck it into the wall right above Bumi's head. The key was hanging in between his eyes. "That's my boy," I thought to myself. "There! Enjoy your lunch," Aang shouted over the falls. "I want my friends back." "Not so fast I need help with another matter. I've lost my pet Flopsy," Bumi said. We then went to another room with some kind of enclosure. There was a bunny rabbit with floppy ears inside it. Aang hopped down next to the rabbit. "I found him," Aang called. "Bring him to me," Bumi said. "Daddy wants a kiss from Flopsy." Aang tried to grab the rabbit, but it hopped away. Then suddenly, a giant rabbit bear showed up behind Aang. Aang turned a screamed. He ran after the rabbit with the giant rabbit bear close behind him. The rabbit ran into a hole. Aang tried to reach for him, but he couldn't. The giant rabbit bear was on him now. Then suddenly, Aang realized that was Flopsy. "Flopsy," he said under his breath. Flopsy then gave Aang a big lick. "Flopsy," Aang said in a louder voice and gave him a hug. Bumi then whistled for Flopsy. Flopsy then went right for him. Bumi gave him a big tummy rub. Then they both walked away. Aang hopped up to check on us. By this time, the Genomite was covering most of my body. Only my head and legs were still free. "How are you guys doing?" he asked. "Other than this strange rock totally incarcerating Ammon's body, we're just fine," Katara said. I could tell she was concerned for me. "How are you feeling, Ammon?" Sokka asked leaning up against me. "Ah, I'm fine; I feel rather protected inside here. Don't worry, I'll burst myself once Aang's done with the tests," I said. I wasn't lying at all. I did feel comfortable and protected in there. Though I couldn't break myself free yet. Because if I did, who knows what Bumi would do to the children?
We then went into a room that looked to me like a fighting arena. Katara, Sokka, and I were on a balcony on the right. Bumi was with Aang on the balcony in the middle. "For your final test, you'll fight in a duel. And to make things interesting, I'll let you choose your opponent," Bumi said. Two men walked up from behind Bumi. The one on his right was a robust man with a spear on his back and a sword in each hand. The one on his left was just as robust and had half a dozen axes. "Point and choose," Bumi said. "So, I fight whoever I point to?" Aang asked. Bumi nodded. "I choose," Aang paused and pointed at Bumi "You." I knew Aang was in for a bad surprise. Bumi laughed. "Wrong choice," he said. He then knocked Aang down into the arena. He took off his robes, leaving only a loincloth. He jumped down in front of Aang. He was very robust and muscular. He was an Earthbender and a very powerful one at that. "You thought I was a frail old man, but I'm really one of the most powerful Earthbenders you'll ever see," Bumi said. Aang was surprised and frightened. "Can I fight the guy with the ax instead?" Aang asked. "There are no take-backsies in my kingdom," Bumi said. "I think you'll need this." A guard then threw Aang's staff to him. "I hope you'll have a few surprises for me," Bumi said.
The duel then began. Bumi threw a giant chunk of rock at Aang. Aang dodged and jumped around. "Typical Airbender tactic, avoid and evade. I should hope the Avatar would be a little less predictable," Bumi said and launched another giant chunk of rock. Aang jumped out of the way. "Sooner or later, you'll have to strike back," Bumi said. Unfortunately, I knew he was right. Aang began to use his airbending to launch Bumi's rocks back at him. Bumi launched another large rock. Aang ran in circles, quickly forming a tornado. The tornado flew the rock back at Bumi. Aang rode on an air ball on the walls straight for Bumi. Before I knew it, Aang had his staff at Bumi's neck. Bumi had his arms raised because he was holding a large rock above their heads. "Well done, Avatar, you fight with much fury in your heart" Bumi said a tossed the rock to one side. They then jumped up next to the rest of us. "You've completed all my tests. Now answer this one question correctly, and I'll let you friends go." Bumi said. "That's not fair. You said you'd let my friends go if I finished your tests," Aang protested. "Ah, but what's the point of tests if you don't learn anything," Bumi said. "Here's the question. What is my name?" "What?" Aang said. "From the look of the Head Nature Master, you only have a few minutes," he said and walked away. The only thing of me you could see was my head through a small hole now. "How am I supposed to guess his name," Aang said. "Think about the challenges. Maybe it's a riddle," Katara suggested. "I know, he's an Earthbender, so how about Rocky" Sokka said. "We'll keep trying, but that's a good backup plan," Katara said. I felt a shred of doom at that moment. "Okay, back to the challenges," Aang said. "I got his key, saved his pet, and had a duel." "And what did you learn from them," I said. "Well, they weren't easy. I had to think differently than I usually do. I know what his name is." Aang said. "I sure hope so," I said.
We met back up with Bumi in the throne room. "I figured out the riddle as I did the challenges," Aang said. "I had to think differently than I usually do. As you said a long time ago, I had to keep my eyes open to the possibilities." Bumi began to laugh his old laugh. "Bumi, you're a mad genius," Aang said. He then ran up and hugged Bumi. "Ah Aang, it's good to see you. You haven't changed a bit, literally," Bumi said. I then broke myself free from the Genomite. Bumi caught a piece and took a bite. "Genomite is made of rock candy, delicious," he said. I then walked up and hugged Bumi too. "I'm happy to see you again, too, Ammon," he said. "So, this king is your old friend Bumi?" Katara asked. "Hey, who are you calling old," Bumi said. "Okay, I'm old." "Not as old as me, dear friend," I pointed out. I was trying to make him feel better. "Then why didn't you or Ammon tell Aang who you were?" Sokka wondered. "Well, Bumi had me promise not to tell," I said. "But why?" Sokka asked. "Well, it's fun to mess with people," Bumi said. "But I do have a good reason." He turned to Aang. "Aang, the world's changed a lot in the hundred years you've been gone. It's the duty of the Avatar to restore balance by defeating the Firelord. So, I'm hoping when you face Firelord Ozai, you think like a mad genius," Bumi explained. "Don't worry, Aang, I'll be with you," I said. Suddenly Momo ran up. "You'll need Momo too," Bumi said. With that, we were off again. I knew that the journey was only going to get more dangerous. However, I decided to go with it.
We soon came to rest in an Earth Kingdom forest. I found it rather nice. When we were ready to move out, Sokka wanted to walk. I personally had no objections to that. It was a nice day, but the others wondered why. Sokka said that the Fire Nation always seemed to find us whenever we flew. I thought, what such a nice day in a nice part of the woods, I thought, why not. We had only just begun when we heard a loud thud ahead of us. We ducked behind some rocks. I took the first peek. I saw a young Earthbender about 19 years old. He was brown-haired, in green clothes and a green hat. I recognize him at once. "Haru," I said. "Ammon you know that person?" Katara asked when she peeked out. "Yes, now you three stay here in case you might frighten him. The Fire Nation has taken control of this area," I instructed. I jumped forward, and Haru still didn't notice me. When he let his boulder down, I raised it up again. Haru was surprised. He turned and was relieved when he saw me. "Ammon," he said. "Good to see you again." "Good to see you too, Haru," I said. "Practicing again I see." "Yes," he said. He let his head hang down. "Nothing to be ashamed of, Haru, I understand," I said. "Here, I have some friends I want you to meet" I turned. "Alright, everyone, come on out," I called. Alex, my guards, and the children came out to meet Haru. "Haru, this is Aang, Katara, and her brother Sokka," I said. "Good to meet you all," Haru said. "Any friends of Ammon's are friends of mine."
"Wow, you're a good Earthbender," Aang said in amazement. "I did have a good teacher," Haru said, waving his hand at me. I blushed. "Ah sucks, I just pointed you in a direction, that's all," I said. "Besides, your dad taught you more than me." "Come on, Ammon, my mother will want to see you again," Haru said, and off we went to his family shop. There we met Haru's mother, Tya. She was happy to see me. I'm the one who helped her meet her husband, Tyro, after all. Things were going well until Katara mentioned how good of an Earthbender she thought Haru was. Suddenly Tya closed the door and windows. "They saw you earthbending," she said. "There were no Fire Nation troops around, I guarantee it," I said. "But you know how dangerous it is," Tya said. "You know what would happen if they caught Haru earthbending." "You don't think they'd do it to me, too? I was earthbending with him," I said. Suddenly someone was pounding on the door. "Open up," a male's voice said. Sokka took a peek out the window. "Fire Nation," he said. "Act natural." When Tya opened the door, a Fire Nation officer walked in. Katara was pretending to eat fruit. Haru and Sokka pretended to be discussing something. Aang, with a hat on to cover his arrow, was leaning on the water barrel. Which soon broke on him. I put my hood up and leaned against my staff as if I were an old man. (I suppose I could be considered one, however. I was, after all, hundreds of years old, nearly 500, actually).
"What do you want? I've already paid you this week," Tya inquired. "The tax just doubled," the officer said. "We wouldn't want an accident now, would we?" As he said that, he conjured a ball of fire between his hands. I knew he was threatening her. "Fire is so hard to control," he said. "Especially when the bender is out of control," I thought to myself. That officer acted like anything but a gentleman. Quickly I found the money box and secretly placed a few gold coins inside. Luckily no one saw me. Tya opened the box and gave the officer my gold coins and the copper coins she had. "You can keep the copper ones," he said, dropping them on the floor. Then he left, thank goodness. I took off my hood when he was safely gone. "How long has the Fire Nation been here?" Sokka asked. "Five years," Tya said as she picked up the coins. "Firelord Ozai uses our town's coal to fuel his ships." "They're thugs," Haru said, looking down in anger. "They steal from us, and everyone is too much of a coward to do anything." "Haru, don't talk like that," Tya said sternly. "Why not? Haru is an Earthbender," Katara protested. "Earthbending is forbidden. It's caused nothing but misery for this village. He must never use his abilities," Tya said, looking at Haru. "But why" Katara didn't understand. "Haru has a gift. Asking him not to earthbend is like asking me not to waterbend. It's a part of who we are." "You don't understand," Tya said. "I understand Haru can help you fight back. What can the Fire Nation do that they haven't done already?" Katara wondered. "They could take Haru away like they did his father," Tya explained. "That was a very dark day indeed," I said. "You were here on that day," Katara asked. "Yes, I was," I answered. I was indeed there on that day. It was one of my unpleasant memories. "Five years ago," I began. "I got the information; Ozai was going to attack here. I assembled a handful of my best troops. Though the Fire Nation attacked with larger numbers than I thought. Altogether, we and the Earthbenders were outnumbered 5 to 1. We put up a good fight, however. The battle lasted for a week. Then the Fire Nation launched a surprise attack at night. The Nature Masters were pushed back from the Earthbenders. They chased us to the far hills. I watched in horror as they rounded up all the Earthbenders, including Tyro. As soon as it was safe while the Fire Troops suspected nothing. I began to visit Haru and teach him to become a better Earthbender in his father's place. One that his father could and would be proud of. His father had taught him everything to that point. I thought I could make Haru feel better by teaching him more."
"And you did," Haru said. "Though it still didn't change the fact I had to leave you to strike the Fire Nation in other places," I said. "You had to help others, Ammon, and we were fine," Tya said. I still didn't like the idea of having to leave them in a time of need. As the sun went down, we went to their farm. Alex and my guards showed up with Appa. "My mom says you guys can sleep here tonight but that you must leave in the morning," Haru said, showing us the barn. "Thanks, I'll make sure Appa doesn't eat all your hay," Aang said. Appa was already snarfing down hay. I just had to laugh. Katara, Haru, and I walked off together to watch the sunset. "I'm sorry about what I said earlier," Katara told Haru. "I didn't know about your father." "It's alright," Haru said. "Actually, the way you spoke at the shop reminded me of him," "Thanks," Katara said. "Your father sounds like a great man," "He is a great man Katara, and a good friend," I said, remembering him. He was a very strong Earthbender that I had the pleasure of training. I longed as much as Haru to see him again. When we got to a slope, Haru picked up some dirt. He earthbended them into balls and rotated them. "Practicing my bending is the only way I can feel close to him," he said as if he read my thoughts. "You see this necklace?" she asked. "My mother gave it to me." "It's beautiful," Haru said. "I lost my mother in a Fire Nation raid. This necklace is all I have left of her," Katara explained. I remembered that day too. I blame myself because I could've saved her. I've tried to make up for it by watching over and teaching Katara and Sokka. "It's not enough, is it," Haru said. "No," Katara answered.
"I know what it's like to lose a loved one," I said. "See this staff?" I held it out. They both nodded. "This is all I have left of my father," I said. "He died over 100 years ago. Thus began my rule over the Nature Masters." "That's hard. A great thing for you happened because of your father's death," Haru said. "You have no idea," I said. Plus, I wouldn't call my job a great thing. It's pretty hard, I must say. We kept walking toward the mines. Suddenly we saw a large dust cloud and a cry for help. We rushed to the mines. An old man was trapped under rocks and dirt. To make matters worse, the rocks and dirt were closing down on him. Haru and I tried to hold back the dirt while Katara tried to pull the old man out. It was no use. "It's not working," Katara cried. "We need to get help." "There's no time," Haru said. "Pull harder" "Haru, there's a way you can help," Katara said. "I can't," Haru said. He and I both knew what Katara was up to. She wanted Haru to use his earthbending. "Haru, if you don't, I will. There's no one here to see." I said. Haru and I, at the same time, prepared to earthbend. I stopped the dirt from moving, and Haru blasted it away down the mines. The old man was free. "You did it, guys," Katara said happily. We helped the old man home. Though if I had known what would happen next. I would have done it solo. When Katara and I returned to the barn for the night. She began telling the boys all about how Haru saved the old man. "It was brave of Haru to use his earthbending to help that old man," she said. "Yes, it was, I've never been prouder of him," I added. "You must have really inspired him, Katara," Aang pointed out. "I guess I did," Katara said. "You have courage and wisdom beyond your years Katara," I told her. "Okay, now let's all get some sleep. We'll be leaving at dawn," Sokka said, lying down. We all did the same, and I was asleep almost immediately.
The next thing I knew, I was being shaken back and forth. "Ammon, Ammon, wake up" I opened my eyes and saw Alex above me. He looked very worried. "Alex, what's wrong," I asked. "The Fire Nation, they're taking Har. The old man turned him in," he explained. "I've got to rescue him," I said, getting up. "Alex, stay here and guard the children, I'm going in alone," Before Alex could answer, I was already gone. I saw the lights of their torches and followed them. They did indeed have Haru. The old man was with them and recognized me as the other Earthbender. (Obviously, he didn't recognize me as the Head Nature Master.) Thankfully in the dim light, the Fire Nation troops didn't either. "Get him, men," the officer said. "Run, Ammon, Run," Haru said. I had no choice. I would have to save him later. If I got captured, it could lead the Fire Nation to the children and Aang. I dodged the Fire Nation troops all night and didn't return to the farm until morning. When I got there, Tya was crying at the sunrise. I knew that she must've known. I went to her. "I tried, Tya, I tried," I told her. "I know, and I know he'll be with his father now," she said. "Don't worry, I'll get them back. You'll see them again," I assured her. I walked to the barn, and Katara was not happy. "Oh, Ammon, it's all my fault, I talked him into earthbending," she said. "It's my fault too, Katara. I taught him, helped encourage him, and failed to rescue him last night," I said. "Now I'm going to set things right. This whole village is suffering because of me. The old man saw me as the other Earthbender. Therefore, the Fire Nation will be looking for me. I intend to give them what they want. Then they'll take me to Haru," I faced the outside. "Me too," Katara said. "What are you talking about, Katara?" I asked. "If you are going to have the Fire Nation arrest you for earthbending, they'll have to arrest me, too," she explained.
I knew what she was up to. And I also knew nothing was going to change her mind. So we decided to pull off our little plan at the mines. We rolled a rock over a vent for Katara's fake earthbending. The plan was for me to be in disguise as a regular Earthbender. And I would pretend to be giving Katara a lesson. I would lift the rock with earthbending and put it down again. Then Katara would pretend to lift it when Aang used airbending through the vents to lift the huge rock. Sokka saw the guards coming, and we were ready. As the guards rounded the corner, they saw me showing Katara how to earthbend. "Now it's your turn, my young student," I told her. As Aang blasted air through the vents, Katara pretended to lift the rock, revealing Momo from behind the rock. "Look, that lemur is earthbending," one young guard said. "No, you idiot, it's the girl," the officer said. "Oh." "And there's that Earthbender who eluded us last night, sir," another guard said. "Yes, trying to teach other senseless young Earthbenders, I see," the officer said. "Arrest them both." The guards surrounded us. I sent a mind message to Alex, who was hiding nearby. "Follows us closely but out of sight and rally all the troops you can. We may need reinforcements," I said. "Yes, brother, I promise Aang and Sokka will be safe with me," he answered. "I know," I said, and that was that. The guards placed us on a ship and had us put on brown prisoner clothes. We were accompanied by some Earthbenders from other villages. The ship sailed to a metal rig in the middle of the ocean. That explained a lot. Many Earthbenders don't know how to bend metal. Due to the fact that they see with their eyes. When you see with bending, you can see that metal is earth is another form. Metalbending, unfortunately, cannot be taught. A bender must discover it for themselves. We were unloaded with other prisoners from other villages. They lined us up, and the warden came out to inspect us. "Earthbenders, I welcome you to my modest shipyards. I am your warden. I prefer to think of you not as prisoners but as honored guests," He said with an evil grin. "And I hope you come to think of me as your humble and caring host," "I doubt that very highly," I thought to myself. "You will succeed here if you simply abide by the rules," he continued. Then a prisoner coughed. The warden turned and shot fire at the old man. "What kind of guest dishonors his host by interrupting him," he said sternly. "Take him below. A week in solitary should help his manners," The guards took the old man away. I could tell the warden was a ruthless man. He was a fire to be taken seriously.
The warden turned his attention back to us. "Simply treat me with the respect I give you, and we'll get along famously." He looked right at me and Katara. We both gave him a dark frown. "I'm sure that we will," I said. "Ah, a brave speaker are you," the warden said. "Just wanting to express some respect," I answered. "Very good." He began to show us around. "As you can see, Earthbenders, this entire rig is made of metal. You are miles from any rock or earth. So, if you have any ideas of using those barbaric arts that pass for bending among you people, forget them. It is useless. Good day." With that, he left. We were then led to the prisoner's yard. Where all the prisoners were kept for the night, I could feel Haru and Tyro's presence here. As we walked, we saw the terrible sight of the mistreated prisoners. "Katara, Ammon," someone said from the left of us. We looked over. "Haru," Katara said and hugged him. I did the same. "What are you guys doing here," he asked. "It was our fault you were captured. We're here to rescue you," Katara said. "So, you guys got yourselves arrested," Haru marveled. "Hey, the Fire Nation wanted me anyway, and it was the only way to find you," I said. "You guys got guts," Haru said. "It's my job to have guts, Haru," I told him. "Where's your dad?" "He's right here," Haru said and showed us to him. "Dad, Ammon's here with my friend Katara, Katara, this is my dad, Tyro" "It's an honor to meet you," Katara said, bowing. I sighed "Tyro, I thought I'd never see you again, my friend," "Good to see you too, my friend, have some dinner, the both of you," Tyro said, handing us and bowl. The food looked just awful. "It's not as bad as it looks," Tyro said. We sat down, and Katara had a taste. She groaned, and her face went red. "It's still pretty bad, though," Tyro admitted. Then another prisoner came up to Tyro. "Tyro, the prisoners are complaining there aren't enough blankets to go around," he said. "I'll talk to the guards. In the meantime, make sure the elderly are taken care of. The rest of us will simply have to hope for warmer weather," Tyro said. "If you don't mind me asking, but what's your escape plan," Katara wondered. "Excuse me," Tyro said, looking confused. "You know the plan to get everyone off the rig," Katara said. "What is it, mutiny, sabotage?" "The plan, the plan is to survive, wait out this war. Hope that someday some of us can get back home and forget this ever happened," Tyro said. "You honestly think if the Fire Nation wins, they'll release their prisoners," I said, frowning at Tyro. "You'd just be a threat again. It's only if the Fire Nation loses can you return home that way. I failed you once, Tyro, I'm not failing you again."
"And it sounds like you've already given up," Katara said. "Katara, I admire your courage, and I envy your youth. Ammon, you did not fail me but people's lives are at stake here. The warden is a ruthless man, and he won't stand for any rebellion. I'm afraid we're powerless." Tyro said sadly. "Tyro, there's something bigger at stake here," I tried to explain. "The very balance and harmony of the world is at stake. I need all the help I can get to stop the Fire Nation. The Nature Masters need all the help we can muster." "I'm sorry, but we can't help," Tyro said. "We'll see about that," Katara said. She climbed on a table and hit a pot lid with a spoon. She raised her voice. "Earthbenders, you don't know me, but I know of you. Every child in my Water Tribe village has been rocked to sleep by stories of the brave Earth Kingdom and the great Earthbenders who guard its borders. Some of you think the Fire Nation has made you powerless. Yes, they have taken away your ability to bend, but they can't take away your courage; and it's your courage they should truly fear because it runs deeper than any mine you've been forced to dig, any ocean that keeps you far from home. It's the strength of your heart that makes you who you are. It is that that still stands when all rock and stone has eroded away. The time to fight back is now. I can tell you the Avatar has returned, so remember your courage, Earthbenders. Let us fight for our freedom." As Katara's voice died away, the Earthbenders went back to their business. I hated seeing Katara's great speech go like that. "Okay, that does it," I said to myself. I walked up to Katara and climbed up onto the table. "I thought that was great, Katara," I said softly to her. "Why don't you let me take it from here and give your speech a little backup."
I suddenly created an airblast that swept through the Earthbenders. I raised my voice. "My fellow Earthbenders, hear me," I shouted. "You know of me. You all should recognize me as the Head Nature Master. I ask you to heed what this girl has said. The Fire Nation may have taken away your ability to bend. Though a Nature Master knows more than anyone, there are other ways to fight back. The Fire Nation makes you think it's hopeless because they know it's not. They are afraid of your courage, for they know how great a weapon it is. I've helped thousands to escape from Fire Nation prisons. I plan to do the same for you. I'm assembling some of my best troops as we speak. All I ask for is your assistance. As long as the Nature Masters stand, the Fire Nation will never see victory. Come and help us restore balance. I can confirm to you that the Avatar has returned. He is back. After a hundred years of searching, I found him. There is always hope if only we hold on to it. Come and fight for your freedom and the freedom of the world." Suddenly all the Earthbenders saw that Katara was right and saw that there was still hope. They all cheered. When the Headmaster speaks, people listen. And thankfully, the warden didn't give a darn. He thought this still wouldn't change anything. Man, oh man, was he wrong. When I stepped down, even Tyro saw hope. "You really think you can do it?" Tyro asked. "With my eyes closed, old friend," I said. That seemed to do it, but the Earthbenders soon forgot it. As night fell, Katara and I were watching the sunset. "Did you mean it when you said it could do with your eyes closed?" she asked. I nodded. "A Nature Master can sense things through the elements. It's like seeing without your eyes. There are Nature Masters who are blind, so they need to use bending to see. By that, they're as good as anyone." That night Aang snuck in and woke us up. He led us to where Appa was parked. "Okay, what's up," Alex asked. "We need to talk elsewhere," I said. Sokka and Alex got off Appa, and Aang whispered something in his ear. Appa then flew off. We hid behind some supply boxes. "Okay, either we get out of here, or we all get captured," Sokka said.
"We can't leave these people," Katara said. "I've promised them a way out," I added. "Alex, how many troops did you muster" "About 50 or so," Alex said. "I hope that's enough," I said. "Now we just need to find a way to help the Earthbenders help themselves," Katara said. "If only we had some earth or rock, something they can bend," Sokka suggested. I looked over at Alex. "Sorry bro, we didn't bring enough rock for everyone," he said. "But this whole place is made of metal," Katara protested. Aang's eyes suddenly opened wide. "No, it's not," he said, and he pointed. "There's smoke coming from those chimneys. I bet they're burning coal, and that means" "Earth," Sokka finished. They were indeed burning coal. It would be just the thing. I had Alex rally the troops to hidden spots on the rig. There they would stay until I gave the signal. When we were ready, it was almost dawn. "I hope this works," Katara said. She, Sokka, and I were by the vent in the prison yard. "It should. It reminds me of our little trick at the village," Sokka said. "There are vents that lead all over, Aang's closed all the vents except one. When does his airbending, the coal will have nowhere to go but here" "There's the intruder," a soldier said. Fire Troops suddenly surrounded us. "Stay back I'm warning you," Sokka said. All three of us were in battle readiness. "Katara, Ammon, stop; you can't win this fight," Tyro said. "Listen to him well, children. You're one mistake away from dying where you stand," the warden said. "Be careful with your words, warden," I said, facing him. "I could say the same about you." Though before I had the chance to prove the point. Aang let loose the coal. The coal erupted from the vent like a geyser.
The Earthbenders were amazed. I turned back to the warden. "There are still more surprises in store," I said and snapped my fingers. Suddenly my troops burst out of nowhere. The warden was shocked. I jumped on top of the coal pile and picked up a piece. "Here's the freedom I promise you, Earthbenders. Now take it, if not for me, for the world, for all your families and your homes, fight back." No one moved. "Ha, you think some words and coal would help them? Ha-ha. You have failed Nature Master," the warden laughed. I turned and shot a fireball at him. He got knocked down to the floor. I jumped off the pile. "Silence, the Headmaster speaks. Maybe you're right, warden. Maybe I should try a different approach," I said. My people knew what I was thinking. They readied themselves to attack. "On my mark, people," I said. Suddenly a piece of coal hit the warden's head. It was Haru. He was ready to help fight. The Fire Troops blasted fire at him. However, Tyro protected his son with coal. The Fire troops tried again, so Tyro and two other Earthbenders blocked it with a wall of coal. "Show no mercy," the warden ordered. "For the glory of the Earth Kingdom, attack," Tyro shouted, and they launched the coal at the Fire Nation Troops. "Nature Masters, join the Earthbenders," I called. Thus, the battle began. The Earthbenders had found their courage again. The Fire Troops were not used to fighting their own element in battle. However, in combat, a Nature Master knows no bounds. We soon had them really running. I faced the warden himself. "You will not succeed, Nature Master," he said. "I already have warden, and you have just lost," I said. With that, I launched some fire at him. He blocked and launched some at me. I caught it and threw it right back at him. Then I launched coal on him like missiles. Suddenly there was a large and shaking crash. Haru and Tyro had blasted and hole in the wall with a big coal ball. "Get to the ships. We'll hold them off," Tyro said. "Don't let anyone escape," the warden said. He and a line of his men shot fire right at us. I collected the fire and added air, water, and some coal. I molded them into the Element Ring, the true ultimate weapon of the world.
I threw the Element Ring right at the lines, but some still stood. However, not long after, Aang began shooting coal at the Firebenders like mad. When I saw he was doing it with an air tunnel. I heard myself say, "That's my boy." Aang was clever and creative. Up to that point, I had not been prouder of him. After the warden and his men fell on their faces. Tyro, Haru, and I lifted them with coal. We hung them over the water. "No, please, I can't swim," the warden pleaded. "Don't worry, I hear cowards float," Tyro said. With that, we dropped them. I had my soldiers round them up. They brought the warden into custody before me. I saw him as everyone was getting on the boats. "Well, warden, now you will get the chance to be a prisoner yourself," I said. "Where will I go" he wondered. "To a much better prison than yours. I'm sending you to the dungeon at the Ama Se palace. It's truly inescapable. Even if you make it out of the dungeon, you'll still be trapped at Ama Se. Only the Nature Masters know how to get in and out." I said. I could see the fear in his eyes. Maybe now he would understand how the rest of the world feels. "Take him away," I said and joined the others. As we sailed from the rig, Katara and I spoke with Haru and Tyro. "I want to thank you guys for saving me, for saving us," Haru said. "All it took was a little coal," Katara said. "And some bold words," I added. "It wasn't just that. It was you guys, too," Haru said. We both blushed. "Thank you for helping me find my courage Katara of the Southern Water Tribe. Thank you too, Ammon, my old master," Tyro said. "I suppose you'll be heading home now," Katara said. "Yes, to take back my village," Tyro raised his voice. "To take back all of our villages, the Fire Nation will regret the day they set foot on our lands." The other Earthbenders cheered. "Come with us. We could use you," Haru said to me. "Sorry, Haru, I have my own job I need to do. That's getting Aang to the North Pole," I said. "That's him, isn't it, the Avatar," Haru said. "Yes, I found him, and I have my destiny to fulfill with him," I said. "Your job is to take back your home. Mine is to help the Avatar. Though I will see you get Nature Master support," I promised. "Katara, Ammon, I want to thank you for getting my father back to me," Haru said. "I know how important a father is to you, Haru," I said. "Me too," Katara said. Then she looked horrified. "My mother's necklace it's gone," she said. I knew how important it was to her. "Don't worry, Katara, I'll have my troops search for it," I said, putting my hand on her shoulder.