"𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭."
- 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐓𝐰𝐚𝐢𝐧
Kireina stifled a yawn, her movements sluggish as she slipped into her customary Airbender robes. Dawn had barely broken, the world still cloaked in shadows, as she navigated the maze of corridors with practiced ease, each step carefully calculated to avoid disturbing the slumbering inhabitants of the house.
Emerging into the cool morning air, Kireina traversed the winding dirt roads of the village, her senses heightened by the anticipation of what lay ahead. Following the directions provided by Suki the day before, she made her way to the designated meeting point, the soft glow of light emanating from the windows guiding her path.
As she approached her destination, the rhythmic sounds of combat filled the air, the clashing of metal and the swish of Tessenjutsu techniques mingling harmoniously. Shadows danced across the walls, revealing the silhouettes of Kyoshi Warriors engaged in spirited sparring matches, their movements fluid and precise.
Another yawn escaped Kireina's lips, her fatigue evident from the early hours. The residual effects of the intense training session of waterbending attempts from the previous day lingered, leaving her muscles sore and her mind sluggish.
Summoning her remaining energy, Kireina rapped lightly on the door before sliding it open, her presence immediately acknowledged by the warriors' leader, Suki.
Suki greeted her newest pupil with a reverent bow, a gesture that Kireina quickly halted with a wave of her hand, discomfort evident in her expression. Despite her reluctance to accept such formalities, Suki proceeded to present Kireina with a pair of Kyoshi's legendary metal Tessen fans, a gift that carried both significance and weight.
As Kireina examined the fans, she noted their substantial heaviness compared to her usual weapon, a subtle shift that forced to alter her familiar fighting style. While she appreciated the gesture, she couldn't help but view these fans as temporary substitutes for the cherished gift bestowed upon her by Monk Gyatso, a beloved father figure to both her and Aang, and one of the revered weapons of Kunchen herself.
Resigning herself to the task at hand, Kireina allowed Suki to guide her through the intricate process of applying the distinctive makeup worn by the Kyoshi Warriors, a ritual she found mildly distasteful but ultimately necessary for blending in with her new comrades.
Once the transformation was complete, Suki instructed Kireina to assume her most comfortable fighting stance. With a slight bend of her knees and her left hand raised protectively before her forehead, Kireina adopted a posture that differed significantly from the traditional airbending stance Aang had grown accustomed to. Her right hand poised in front of her, ready to strike at a moment's notice, reflected years of training under the watchful eye of Gyatso, though her unorthodox and offensive approach often drew disapproval from the Council of Elders.
Observing Kireina's stance with a critical eye, Suki made a series of adjustments, refining the posture to better suit the principles of Tessenjutsu. "Our technique is centred around redirecting the opponent's attacks," she explained, her tone measured and authoritative. "We seek to disarm and incapacitate, not to inflict fatal harm. Allow me to demonstrate."
With graceful precision, Suki launched into a demonstration, her movements fluid and controlled as she deftly countered a series of simulated attacks. Each motion was calculated, each strike executed with purpose, as she showcased the artistry and finesse of Tessenjutsu in action.
Suki gracefully executed a lunge, her left leg leading the movement as she extended her arms in a horizontal yet slightly angled position, mimicking the gesture of a welcoming embrace. With a swift flick of her wrists, she unfurled her fans, their metallic gleam catching the light as they opened with practiced ease. "Your turn," she encouraged, her voice infused with patience and reassurance.
Emulating Suki's stance, Kireina shifted into a lunge, positioning her left hand furthest forward and her right hand tucked behind her back. However, when she attempted to open the weighty fans, she encountered an unexpected challenge. Struggling to maintain her balance, Kireina faltered, her movements clumsy and uncoordinated. Frustration bubbled within her as she grappled with the unfamiliarity of the fans, their unwieldy nature proving to be a hindrance rather than an asset.
Sensing her pupil's frustration, Suki offered words of encouragement, her tone gentle yet resolute. "It's okay, Rein. Mastering Kyoshi's fans takes time and patience. Even I struggled at first, but with practice, you'll get there."
Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, Kireina begrudgingly accepted Suki's reassurance, determination overriding her initial frustration. "Fine," she relented, her voice tinged with stubborn resolve. "Let's move on to the other stances."
A chorus of supportive nods and encouraging smiles greeted Kireina's willingness to persevere, the camaraderie of the Kyoshi Warriors serving as a source of inspiration and motivation. With renewed determination, the training session continued, each movement bringing Kireina one step closer to mastering the art of Tessenjutsu.
___
After an intensive hour of practice under Suki's guidance, Kireina bid farewell to the Kyoshi Warriors, her mind already racing with thoughts of reuniting with her friends. As she ascended the staircase to the mansion, a sense of apprehension gnawed at her, a nagging suspicion that trouble awaited her on the other side of the door.
Her intuition proved to be right on the mark.
Upon entering the common area, Kireina was met with the sight of an irate Aang, his footsteps heavy with frustration as he approached her with accusatory eyes. "Where have you been?!" he demanded, his voice sharp with concern as he took in Kireina's appearance, noting the bag containing the armour and fans provided by Suki. "We've been worried sick!"
A pang of guilt tugged at Kireina's conscience, her shoulders slumping slightly under Aang's reproachful gaze. "I'm sorry. I should have left a note," she admitted, her tone tinged with remorse.
"You definitely should have," Aang replied sternly, his initial anger giving way to understanding as he registered the regret in Kireina's expression. "But I'm glad you're back. We were getting really worried."
Kireina offered a small nod of gratitude, appreciative of Aang's concern despite his initial outburst. "Thanks for worrying," she murmured softly, her apology sincere.
Changing the subject, Kireina glanced around the room, her stomach rumbling in anticipation. "So, is breakfast ready?" she inquired, her attempt to lighten the mood evident in her tone.
Aang's face lit up with excitement, his earlier frustration forgotten as he eagerly shared the news. "Yes! One of the villagers brought us desserts for breakfast! Can you believe it?" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious as he gestured towards the tempting treats laid out on the table.
Kireina's eyes lit up at the mention of dessert, her sweet tooth tingling with anticipation at the prospect of indulging in morning treats. With an excited skip in her step, she made her way to the kitchen, where an array of delectable pastries, cakes, and confections awaited her eager palate. The sight alone was enough to set her mouth watering, a feeling mirrored by the enthusiastic drooling of Momo nearby.
As Aang gathered everyone around the table, Kireina wasted no time in helping herself to a generous slice of cheesecake, the creamy delight practically calling out to her taste buds.
"Looks like these folks know how to treat an Avatar and a Ransu!" Aang exclaimed between mouthfuls, his words muffled by the sheer quantity of desserts he was enthusiastically devouring.
Meanwhile, Katara eyed a fluffy, orange puff with a skeptical expression, voicing her concerns about the unhealthy nutritional value of their indulgent breakfast. Nevertheless, she couldn't resist the temptation, taking a tentative bite despite her reservations.
Yun, ever the optimist, caught wind of Katara's hesitation and sought to lift her spirits. With a warm smile, he extended a dessert towards her. "Come on, Katara, don't be down. It's not every day we get to enjoy such a feast," he encouraged, offering her a sample of his own sweet treat. "Here, give this a try!"
Relenting with a small sigh, Katara accepted Yun's offering, her resolve weakening at the promise of a culinary delight. "Well, just a bite then," she conceded, her resistance melting away in the face of temptation.
Momo, ever the mischievous companion, seized the opportunity to snatch another dessert from the unsuspecting Fire Nation prince, darting away with the stolen treat clutched tightly in his grasp. Aang chuckled at the antics of their furry friend, a fond smile gracing his lips as he watched Momo's swift escape.
Undeterred by the impromptu dessert heist, Yun deftly snagged another pastry from the spread before him, his nimble fingers selecting a replacement with practiced ease. Meanwhile, Katara, having finished off her slice of cake, reached across the table to claim some candies identical to the one Aang had just taken, the latter's appetite evidently not yet satisfied.
Aang's gaze shifted to his left, where Katara was now leaning over the table, her focus directed at Sokka, who remained sullen and withdrawn in his corner, arms crossed in defiance.
"Sokka, what's the matter? Eat!" Aang called out, his concern mingled with a hint of exasperation at the said boy's reluctance to partake in the morning feast.
"I'm not hungry," Sokka muttered, his voice laden with discontent.
Yun leaned back, casting a curious glance in Sokka's direction. "But you're always hungry, Sokka," he remarked, his surprise evident as he surveyed the dwindling assortment of desserts before them. "Come on, give this cake a try before it disappears!"
Katara, ever ready with a jest, couldn't resist teasing her brother. "Oh, I know why he's sulking. It's because a group of girls kicked his butt yesterday," she quipped, her playful tone punctuated by a glance at Kireina, who couldn't help but snort at the jest.
Sokka raised his hands in a defensive gesture. "They snuck up on me!" he protested, his pride wounded by the memory of his defeat.
"Sure, Sokka, sure," Katara replied, her grin widening as she teased her brother about his defeat. "But they still handed you your own butt nonetheless."
Momo was lying underneath the table with his front paws around a bunch a pastries he collected. He was chewing while Sokka angrily stood up.
"Sneak attacks don't count!" Sokka's protest echoed through the room as he stormed toward the stairs, his strides purposeful and filled with indignation. "They tied me up with ropes! I'll teach them a lesson or two." He paused, a flicker of realization crossing his features as he pivoted on his heel, striding back toward Yun with newfound determination. "I'm not afraid of any girls," he declared, snatching a dessert from Yun's grasp and swiftly devouring it. "Who do they think they are, anyway?" His words were muffled by a mouthful of sweet confection. "Hmm...this is tasty."
Aang, undeterred by Sokka's outburst, held up a pastry, his eyes alight with curiosity as he turned to Kireina. "What's got him all worked up?" he inquired, his enthusiasm evident. "We're being treated like royalty here! It's fantastic!"
"Hey, let's not get too comfortable," Katara interjected, her tone cautious.
Kireina nodded in agreement, echoing Katara's sentiment. "It's risky for us to linger in one place for too long."
Momo, ever vigilant for culinary opportunities, shot his arm up from the edge of the table, scanning for any leftover pastries.
Aang lowered his arm, offering the pastry to Momo's eager grasp. "I'm sure everything will turn out fine," he reassured the group as Momo deftly seized the dessert. "Plus, look at the positive impact we're having on this town! They're even sprucing up Kyoshi's statue in my honour and beginning to build one for Ransu Kunchen!"
Katara's expression softened, although still tinged with a hint of concern as she regarded Aang. "It's wonderful to see you embracing your role as the Avatar," she remarked, her voice laced with a touch of apprehension. "Let's just hope it doesn't all go to your head."
Aang's smirk widened at Katara's remark. "Come on, you know me better than that," he reassured with a chuckle. "I'm just a simple monk."
With a graceful motion, Aang rose from his seat and leaned against the window sill, peering outside. The moment he came into view, the villagers erupted into cheers of delight and admiration. Aang looked down in surprise, tracing the source of the joyful commotion to a group of excited little girls. Blushing, he flashed them a charming smile, basking in their adoration.
Meanwhile, Kireina stood behind him, her arms folded in clear disapproval. She couldn't help but roll her eyes and let out a quiet raspberry. "Simple monk, he said," she muttered under her breath, directing her comment so only Katara and Yun could hear.
Deciding to let Aang enjoy his moment, Kireina motioned for Yun to accompany her as they left the mansion to check on Sokka. Spotting him near a small house nestled among the trees, they approached quietly.
"I can't believe I got bested by a bunch of girls," Sokka grumbled to himself, his frustration evident, unaware of the two smirking teens sneaking up behind him.
"I'm fifteen, Sokka, while you're eighteen," Kireina declared with an exasperated sigh, causing Sokka to startle at her sudden proclamation. "And I could still outmatch you any day."
Sokka's scowl deepened before a sudden realization crossed his face, brightening his expression. "But if I can defeat those girls who bested you... that means I'm stronger than you!" he exclaimed triumphantly.
Kireina couldn't help but facepalm, her hand shielding the flush creeping onto her cheeks from both Yun and Sokka's antics.
Yun offered a comforting pat on Kireina's shoulder. "It's alright," he said reassuringly, glancing at Sokka as he headed inside. "Let's just sit back and enjoy the show of Sokka getting schooled by the Kyoshi Warriors."
As Sokka entered the house, he was met with the sight of six Kyoshi Warriors executing their routine with flawless precision, their fans moving in perfect unison. Peeking around the doorway, Sokka couldn't resist flashing a smug smile before striding in confidently.
"Apologies, ladies," he began, adopting a tone of mock condescension as he interrupted their practice. Suki and the other warriors halted their movements, folding their fans closed as they turned to face Sokka with serious expressions. "I didn't mean to intrude on your dance session. Just thought I'd find a spot for a little workout." With that, he started to stretch, paying no mind to the stifled giggles emanating from Suki's warriors.
"Well, you've certainly come to the right place," Suki responded with feigned innocence, her eyes following Sokka's movements as he loosened up. "And sorry about yesterday, I didn't realize you were acquainted with Rein and the Avatar."
Sokka stretched his arms with exaggerated nonchalance, a hint of suppressed laughter in his voice. "No hard feelings," he said, his tone laced with mockery. "I mean, usually, I'd hold a grudge, but considering you're all a bunch of girls, I'll make an exception."
Yun scowled at Sokka's remark, while Kireina let out an exasperated sigh, her palm meeting her forehead.
Suki's response dripped with sarcasm. "Well, I should hope so. A big, strong man like yourself? We'd be no match, I'm sure."
"Absolutely," Sokka replied smugly, puffing out his chest. "But don't worry, it's not your fault. I happen to be the greatest warrior in my entire village."
Suki maintained her sarcastic tone, leaning in slightly towards Sokka. "Wow? The greatest warrior, huh?" she mused, shooting a glance back at the other Warriors. "In your entire village? How fortunate for us. Perhaps you'd be kind enough to give us a little demonstration."
Yun and Kireina couldn't contain their amusement, snickering loudly as Sokka's eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected challenge. "Uh, well... I mean... I..."
"Come on, ladies!" Suki exclaimed, turning to her fellow warriors to gather their attention. "Wouldn't it be fun to see what he's got?"
The other Kyoshi Warriors nodded in agreement, their smiles mirroring Suki's enthusiasm.
Yun nudged Sokka forward with just enough force to prompt him to step further into the room. "You brought this upon yourself, Sokka. Unless you're scared?"
Sokka's eyes sparkled with determination at Yun's challenge. "Well, if that's what everyone wants, I'm game." Placing his hands on Suki's shoulders, Sokka attempted to push her back, but she remained firmly planted. "Alright, you stay right there. Now, brace yourself. Try to block me if you can."
With a practiced motion, Sokka assumed a fighting stance, while Suki remained unmoved, maintaining her position exactly as Sokka had left her. As Sokka lunged forward with a punch, Suki effortlessly defended herself, raising her left arm and countering with a swift strike from her closed fan, landing squarely on Sokka's shoulder and eliciting a yelp of pain as he staggered backward.
"Ow!" Sokka winced, rubbing his injured shoulder with a sheepish grin. "Heh heh... Well, that's a start. Obviously, I was holding back."
Kireina observed Suki's confident demeanour with a raised eyebrow, the latter's own smirk hinting at amusement. "Obviously."
Clearly irked by both Kireina's amusement and Suki's confident stance, Sokka's annoyance bubbled over, his voice escalating with each word. "Let's see if you can," he growled, launching into a roundhouse kick, "handle this!"
But Suki was swift, ducking under Sokka's extended leg and effortlessly knocking him off balance. Sokka landed on his back with a resounding thud, while Suki nonchalantly opened her fans to fan herself.
"Is it just me, or is it getting warm in here?" Suki remarked with a self-satisfied grin, clearly relishing Sokka's frustration.
Seething with anger at his second failure and Suki's taunts, Sokka's temper flared. "That's it!" His voice cracked with fury as he scrambled to his feet and charged at Suki recklessly.
Anticipating his move, Suki swiftly closed her fan and sidestepped Sokka's wild charge. With practiced ease, she seized his arm with her right hand and pushed against his shoulder with her left, deftly spinning him around. With each rotation, Sokka's distress became more evident as he was spun helplessly.
Suddenly halting his dizzying whirl, Suki expertly maneuvered Sokka into a vulnerable position, swiftly binding his left hand to his right foot behind his back in a deft movement. Despite Sokka's desperate attempts to maintain his balance, he stumbled and fell face-first to the ground, his frustration palpable as he lay there defeated.
"Anything else you want to teach us?" Suki quipped, her playful tone earning hearty laughter from Yun and sending Kireina into fits of giggles.
Sokka's cheeks burned with embarrassment as he endured the Kyoshi Warriors' amusement at his expense.
Meanwhile, Aang, observing the scene from a distance, raised a finger to catch the attention of his adoring fans. "Excuse me for just a moment, ladies."
Though the fangirls didn't voice their disappointment, their once bright smiles dimmed slightly.
Approaching Kireina from behind, Aang flashed her a warm smile before gently poking her shoulder to grab her attention.
Startled by the unexpected touch, Kireina turned to find Aang standing there, a friendly gleam in his eyes. "Hey, Aang. Want me to introduce you to Suki properly? You should have seen her take Sokka down."
Aang's response caught Kireina off guard, and she couldn't help but feel a twinge of annoyance. "Actually, I can't right now," he replied, his grin widening mischievously.
Confusion furrowed Kireina's brow. "What do you mean, 'you can't?'"
Aang's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I promised the girls a ride on Appa," he explained. "Why don't you join us? It'll be fun!"
Kireina's irritation simmered beneath the surface, tinged with a hint of jealousy. "Watching you play tour guide for a bunch of girls doesn't exactly sound like my idea of fun," she retorted, crossing her arms in annoyance.
"Well, watching our friend getting beaten up isn't exactly a thrill either," Aang replied, disappointment tingeing his voice.
Kireina rolled her eyes in frustration. "He had it coming! And besides, I really want you to meet Suki! She's an incredible leader, Aang. It's a shame we'll have to leave Kyoshi soon."
"I'm not ready to leave just yet. I can't put my finger on it, but there's something I really like about this place..." Aang trailed off, his hand resting on his chin as he pondered.
An impatient fangirl interrupted their conversation, stomping her foot and placing her hands on her hips. "What's the holdup, Aangy?"
Aang waved to the fangirls before turning back to Kireina, who raised an eyebrow at the nickname. "Aangy?" she echoed, a hint of mockery in her tone.
"Just a moment, Koko!" Aang called out cheerfully.
"'Simple monk,' huh?" Kireina retorted sarcastically, her annoyance bubbling to the surface. "I thought you promised us, promised all of us, that you wouldn't let this Avatar stuff go to your head."
"It hasn't," Aang insisted. "You know what I think? You're just upset because you're jealous."
Kireina's anger flared, her voice rising sharply. "Jealous? Of what?"
Aang took a step back as Kireina's frustration boiled over, her foot stomping fiercely on the ground.
"Jealous that we're having so much fun without you," he replied, his tone edged with irritation.
Kireina scoffed incredulously. "That's absolutely ridiculous."
"Maybe it is, but I get it," Aang persisted. "You're just upset that I'm spending time with other girls instead of you."
Kireina shot Aang a withering glare, her hands planted firmly on her hips. In that moment, she felt an overwhelming urge to lash out at him, but she quickly reined in her temper. Allowing anger to control her wouldn't solve anything. "Ugh!" she exclaimed before storming into the training dojo and slamming the door shut behind her.
The Kyoshi Warriors, now focused on training Yun in the art of Tessenjutsu, glanced at Kireina with confusion. "What's wrong, Rein?" Suki inquired, noticing the tension in the air.
"I can't stand this turmoil I feel about Aang! It's driving me insane!" Kireina shrieked, her frustration evident in her voice.
Sokka, who had been sulking in a corner, interjected with a loud mumble. "Then confess to him how you feel. If he's driving you crazy, at least make it worth your while."
Kireina felt her anger flare even more at Sokka's suggestion. "You know what? Forget it! I'm going back to my airbending training so I can keep wiping the floor with your dumb ass!"
Sokka's smug grin widened as he turned to face her. Clad in Kyoshi Warrior's makeup and attire, it was evident that he had sought out Suki for lessons. "Ah, so you admit I'm stronger than you, since you need extra training to stand a chance?" he taunted.
But horror crossed his features as Kireina's Golden Chigan took on a dark intensity, veins pulsating around her temples. She lunged at him, aiming quick jabs at his chest, only for Yun to intercept, placing himself between her and her target.
The force of her strike, thankfully aimed at his stomach, sent Yun staggering back, colliding with Sokka. The other warriors and Suki rushed to restrain Kireina, preventing her from any further impulsive actions.
As the adrenaline of her outburst faded, Kireina's expression shifted to one of horror as she beheld Yun clutching his injured stomach. She had caused this harm.
"I'm so sorry!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine remorse. This was the first time she had allowed her anger to take control.
Sokka, disentangling himself from Yun's grasp, moved to retaliate against Kireina, but Suki swiftly intervened, restraining him on the ground while casting a concerned glance at Yun.
Through the pain, Yun managed to offer reassurance. "It's okay, Reina. Sokka and Aang were the ones who provoked you," he managed, wincing as he spoke. The dark Fire Nation robes he had brought were now stained with crimson.
Tears welled up in Kireina's eyes. "I'm so sorry. I'm—" Her words were cut short as her eyes began to glow. Shadows coalesced around her, forming serpentine shapes that enveloped her form. In an instant, the shadows dissipated after fully engulfing around her, revealing a tall figure with the same golden eyes as Kireina, yet radiating an aura of profound wisdom.
This was Ransu Kunchen.
The Kyoshi Warriors bowed their heads in reverence to the Ransu, while Suki struggled to maintain her hold on Sokka, who writhed in her grasp.
"There's no time to lose," Kunchen proclaimed, striding toward Yun and laying a hand on his stomach. She channeled energy through her Golden Chigan, causing veins to bulge like Kireina's a moment before. A vibrant green aura enveloped her hands, drawing awestruck gazes from everyone except Sokka as Yun's wound began to mend, the skin knitting together seamlessly. "Rest well, Fire Nation prince. You need to restore blood flow to your stomach, which has lost a significant amount."
Yun nodded gratefully, and Kunchen turned to address the room. "I'm sure you're curious about what my descendant just demonstrated." The veins around her eyes receded. "Given our limited time, I'll explain swiftly. What you witnessed from Kireina was an advanced and potent form of Chi-blocking—a martial art enhanced by the Ransu's eyes. This stage allows the user to see the chi pathways within the body like an x-ray. However, mastering this level of my eyes is excruciating, with extreme anger and hatred serving as triggers that allow the pair to evolve." She directed her gaze to Yun. "In the event of a similar circumstance—though I hope it never arises once Kireina learns to manage her powers and emotions—place a metal barrier between her hands and your body so she cannot reach it."
As Kunchen sensed her departure drawing near, she stepped back. "My time is short, but understand that Kireina is tormented by guilt and remorse for her actions." With those words, Kunchen's essence departed from Kireina's form in a brilliant flash, temporarily dazzling everyone in the room.
As they blinked back into awareness, they found Kireina kneeling, tears streaming down her cheeks. Suki released Sokka and approached the Airbender cautiously, resting a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Hey, it's alright," she whispered, enveloping Kireina in a reassuring embrace and gently rubbing her back. "We understand. You were provoked, and Sokka should've been more considerate, especially knowing you weren't in the best state of mind." With a pointed glare at Sokka, who shrank back in remorse, Suki continued, "Apologize to Rein and Yun."
Sokka nodded earnestly and stepped toward Kireina. "I'm sorry, Reina. I didn't mean to upset you. I was just trying to cheer you up with a joke, but I see now it was a mistake. Please forgive me."
Without a word, Kireina pulled Sokka into a tight hug, catching him off guard. "I'll settle the score when we spar later," she sweetly whispered with a hint of playfulness amid her tears, causing Sokka to pale visibly. Then, she turned to Yun, who remained seated against the wall. "Yun, I'm truly sorry. I shouldn't have lost control like that. Please forgive me. And please don't do anything reckless anymore."
"No need for apologies, Reina. I forgive you," Yun replied with a warm smile, which turned into a mischievous one. "As for avoiding reckless behaviour... well, life's no adventure without a little danger, right?"
Before Kireina could respond, Oyaji burst into the dojo with a grave expression. "Firebenders have landed on our shores! Girls, come quickly!"
"I'm not a girl!" Sokka began to protest, but Momo hopped onto his shoulder, nudging him toward the door. "Oh, whatever!"
Kireina's expression shifted to one of urgency. She hurried over to Yun and helped him to his feet. "Come on, we need to get you to Ying. I'll ask Katara to prepare some of the herbs I collected yesterday."
Yun nodded weakly, and together they made their way towards where Appa and Ying were stationed. Kireina called out to her dragon, and Ying, sensing his master's distress, roused from his slumber immediately.
Meanwhile, Katara was in the midst of loading their supplies onto Appa when she noticed Kireina and Yun approaching. Despite the interruption, she continued her task.
"Katara!" Kireina called out urgently. "I need you to fetch some of the herbs I gathered. Look for the yellowish ones with three to four stems."
Katara's eyebrows furrowed in annoyance at the additional request. "Seriously? I loaded those first! Now I have to redo everything!"
"Just do it! Yun needs them urgently! I'll pay you in coins later," Kireina insisted before hurrying off to check on Aang and Sokka.
As she approached them, Kireina wasn't surprised to find Zuko out of all people directing the other three rhinos toward the town. She noticed the Kyoshi Warriors moving stealthily across the rooftops, poised for action.
___
As Suki issued the command, the Kyoshi Warriors sprang into action, leaping down from their concealed positions to confront the incoming threat. One of them landed gracefully in front of the lead rhino, swiftly deploying her fans as the rider lunged with his spear. With a deft move to the right, she disarmed the assailant and countered with a spinning kick, sending him tumbling off his mount.
Meanwhile, a determined Suki dashed toward Zuko, dodging his fire blasts with agile grace. She attempted to attack him from above, but his quick maneuvering redirected his rhino's path, and its powerful tail struck Suki, sending her crashing to the ground.
In a split-second reaction, Zuko aimed another fire blast at the fallen warrior, but Sokka intercepted it just in time, dispersing the flames with a swift stroke of his fan. With resolve, Sokka prepared to face off against Zuko, only to be interrupted by another Kyoshi Warrior leaping from a nearby rooftop, knocking Zuko off his rhino and sending the creature fleeing.
"I guess training's over," Sokka muttered, casting a concerned glance at Suki before rushing to the downed prince.
As Zuko rose with fury in his eyes, he defiantly faced Sokka, Suki, and the other Kyoshi Warriors, assuming a defensive stance. With a swift motion, he spun on his hand, unleashing torrents of fire from his feet, sending one of the warriors crashing into a nearby building and leaving Suki writhing in pain against a wooden pole.
"Nice try, Avatar! But these little girls won't be able to save you," Zuko taunted, his voice dripping with contempt.
"Hey, Prince Baldy! Looking for someone?" Kireina's voice rang out, drawing Zuko's attention like a magnet.
"Where's my brother?!" Zuko's demand crackled with anger, his gaze locked fiercely on the Airbender.
"He's done with your Fire Nation agenda," Kireina retorted, her tone unwavering. "He's joined us willingly to take down the Fire Lord."
Zuko's fists clenched, fire daggers materializing in his grip. His smirk dripped with malice. "Then I suppose I'll have to deal with you first to get to him and the Avatar!"
With a menacing charge, Zuko lunged toward Kireina, only to halt abruptly as veins pulsated with power near her eyes. "What...?" he muttered in disbelief, his advance momentarily faltering.
"This little chi-blocking trick?" Kireina's smirk widened. "It's something I've picked up. And now, you're going to see me command its power."
Eyes locked in a battle of wills, Zuko lunged again, fueled by rage and determination.
Kireina, her movements swift and calculated, evaded Zuko's fire dagger strikes with ease, ducking and weaving with the grace of a seasoned warrior. With precise precision and turning his own momentum against him, she delivered swift jabs to Zuko's abdomen, eliciting cries of pain from the prince. Though she could have aimed for a fatal blow on the chest, she held back, mindful of Yun's principles and the weight of family ties.
As Zuko staggered back, clutching his wounded stomach, Kireina caught sight of Sokka and Suki nearby, sharing a tender moment behind a nearby house. Arches her eyebrows in amusement, she couldn't help but smirk at the unexpected display of affection amidst the chaos of battle as Suki kissed the boy on his reddened cheek.
"Kireina!" Aang's urgent call pierced through the chaos as he emerged into view. "Watch out!"
In the midst of the skirmish, Kireina caught sight of Zuko rising to his feet despite his evident pain, determination burning in his eyes as he lunged toward her once more. With swift reflexes, she countered his attack, delivering a powerful kick that sent him reeling before swiftly moving to Sokka's side.
"We need to leave, now," she insisted urgently, her tone leaving no room for debate. "Thank you for everything, Suki! We'll meet again!"
With a quick nod of gratitude to the Kyoshi Warrior, Kireina took Sokka's hand and hastened toward Appa and Ying, the urgency of their departure palpable in the air.
"Appa, yip yip!" Aang commanded, his voice tinged with a sense of urgency.
Responding to his master's call, Appa and Ying groaned and lifted into the air, their massive forms carrying the group swiftly away from the chaos below. As they soared into the distance, Kireina stole a glance at the saddened Aang, her heart heavy with the weight of their departure.
"I know it's tough," she called out to him, her voice carrying over the rushing wind. "But you made the right call. Staying would've only made things worse. They'll be alright, Aang. Trust me."
As Aang's expression of regret turned to one of determination, he suddenly leaped off Appa, disregarding the shocked cries of his companions.
Watching in awe as Aang plunged into the water, Kireina's heart skipped a beat before he resurfaced, riding atop the Unagi. With a mixture of disbelief and admiration, she observed as Aang deftly manipulated the creature, using its powers to extinguish the flames that threatened the village.
As the Unagi ceased its watery assault and launched Aang into the air, Kireina felt a surge of relief when Appa swooped in to catch him safely.
"I know, I know. That was reckless," Aang admitted with a sheepish grin, once safely back on Appa's saddle.
Kireina couldn't help but smile at his understatement. "Yes, it was," she agreed.
A shadow of remorse crossed Aang's features. "I'm sorry for what I said earlier. I let my ego get the best of me."
"It's alright, Aang," Kireina reassured him, her smile softening.
With a grateful smile, Aang closed his eyes, taking a moment to breathe deeply, the weight of their recent adventures settling upon him.
爱在风中
𝐿𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒲𝒾𝓃𝒹