The Rising Guardian

Chapter 2

With a glimmer of excitement in his eyes, Mason chimed in, cautioning her not to be misled by the occurrences of today, as they promised to be filled with chaos. Feeling a sense of unease, she expressed her fear to the group, noting that their actions were causing her to feel frightened. As her anxiety grew, she cautiously made her way towards the closet, gradually opening its door. Taking a moment to observe her reflection in the full-length mirror, she suddenly became aware that she was still donning the outfit she had worn the previous day. "Don't worry, we'll stay with you all day," Jason murmured behind her as she closed the closet doors.

She turned around and stared into Jason's eyes."Remember they can't hear or see us, so don't talk to us unless you're alone," Mason said as he headed for the door. Jason followed suit as Heaven opened the door and was greeted by three running children leaning across the hallway. Sky let a shaky breath escape her lips that she didn't know she'd been holding. "And now the chaos begins," Mason said.

Sky stealthily crept out of her bedroom, ensuring the door was gently shut behind her, and stealthily made her way towards the living room. Meanwhile, Jinora and Ikki were engrossed in their playtime outside, completely oblivious to movements. As Sky passed by her mother, Pema, she noticed Meelo scurrying past them, eager to join his siblings in the great outdoors. Despite her weary expression, Pema managed to bestow a feeble smile upon Sky and lovingly planted a tender kiss on her forehead.

"Your grandmother will be arriving shortly to check up on you," Pema softly whispered, before gracefully making her way outside to settle on a peaceful bench, cradling the youngest member of the family in her nurturing embrace. Jason expressed his curiosity about the whereabouts of Councilman Tenzin, his uncertainty evident as he scanned the surroundings in search of any sign of his presence.Sensing an opening in the conversation, Sky, with a hint of vulnerability in her voice, inquired about their father's location, settling down next to her mother for comfort.

In response, her mother calmly informed them that their father had a scheduled meeting with the council that morning, reassuring them that he would return shortly. Sky gave a slow nod, her gaze drifting towards the children who were joyfully playing and running around.

As she observed their carefree antics, a pang of nostalgia washed over her, making her wonder if she had once been just like them. However, her mother's sudden decision to retreat into the house disrupted her train of thought. With a sigh, she shifted her attention toward Jason, feeling a sense of displacement wash over her.

"Everything feels so unfamiliar," she lamented, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness."This place, these people... even myself. I had hoped that Dad could help me remember, but I can't confide in him because no one else knows either."As she continued to watch the air-bending siblings play, she couldn't help but feel a sense of detachment, as if they were strangers to her as well.

Jason took a brief pause to consider the situation before proposing an idea. "How about we embark on a stroll around the entirety of this picturesque island? Perhaps immersing ourselves in familiar surroundings will trigger some long-lost memories. Additionally, I could regale you with captivating tales about this enchanting place, its inhabitants, and the numerous escapades we have shared throughout our time here. Does this proposition sound agreeable to you?" Jason inquired, eagerly awaiting a response.

Sky nodded with gratitude, appreciating the gesture of Jason's guidance. As she stood up, a glimmer of hope flickered within her, yearning for a simple walk to rekindle her connection to a life she couldn't fully remember. It was uncertain and mysterious, but for the moment, she would trust Jason to navigate her path. With a curious tone, she inquired, "Tell me, Jason, what should I familiarize myself with about this island? How many inhabitants call this place their home?" It was important to maintain an appearance of independence as if she were merely meandering alone, oblivious to the fact that she was relying on Jason's knowledge.