Avatar: The New World (closed)

[Armphid]

Previously on Avatar...

Aang started up from sleep, his face lined with many years of cares and burdens. The middle aged Avatar was more muscular now, but his body was still slender and streamlined. He looked over at his wife's slumbering form. "Why did I-"

There was a sudden gust of wind, and the spirit of Avatar Roku appeared. "Roku! I haven't seen you in ten years...what's wrong? Is something coming?"

"Yes, Aang. Something that comes to all men in the fullness of time. You have known this...and neglected your duty to prepare for it."

~~~~~​

"I'm going to die, Katara." The Avatar looked out over the restored grounds of the Southern Air Temple. Below the revived Air Nomads went about their days, mingling with Southern Water Tribesfolk and the Airbending monks. "Maybe not soon, but I will."

"Aang..."

He shook his head, "That's not the important part, the thing is...the tools used to find the next Avatar were lost in the war. Without them...even though I'll be reborn, no one might ever know who I am. The world will be without an Avatar, without balance, again."

~~~~~​

Sokka shook his head, "This is nuts!" The Chief of the Water Tribe stood beside his lover, Suki in the airy apartment of the Avatar. "They're just kids, Aang. This is a dangerous job, I mean, we don't know who else has figured this out too. There are people who don't WANT an Avatar around. And they don't play nice."

Suki squeezed her would-be husband's shoulder, "We were just kids too, Sokka."

"That was different! It was a crisis, and there was no one else who could do it!"

"It's okay, Sokka." Aang smiled at his brother-in-law. "They won't be alone, I've called Lei Kung the Thunderer back to the temple. He's the most powerful air bender in the world, and the first of the new air benders I trained. He'll go with them, and protect them."

~~~~~​

A group of Air Nomads, not bending monks but normal men and women, knelt before Aang, Katara, and Sokka. "Avatar Aang, we went to the place to meet the Thunderer as you instructed...but...his camp was destroyed! The site had seen a great battle, the whole area was charred and burned. All we found of Lei Kung..." The man held out a book, a journal that was singed and burned.

Sokka's breath hissed out of him, "Fire benders..."

Aang stared at the ruined tome. "He wrote in that book every day of his life. He'd never leave it behind..."

Sokka took the text, flipping through the last pages to see if anything was legible. "He may not have had a choice."

~~~~~​

It was dark, Aang perched on a high spire, looking out over the sea. "Without Lei Kung..."

"The mission still needs done, Aang." Katara stood on a pillar of ice beside him, placing her arms around her husband's shoulders. "And they're the ones who need to do it. But there might be others we can send with them." She paused, "Before the messengers brought us the news about Lei Kung, I was dealing a couple of surprise visitors."

The image of a young man appeared, climbing up the outer mountain ring surrounding the temple. Then he was riding a 'surfboard' of stone down the other side into the temple grounds. Then bowing over Katara's hand and kissing it. Her voice spoke, "One is Toph's student, Sheng-Tu. You know, he's-"

"Yeah, I remember. And the other?"

A gorgeous girl in her late teens, with long dark hair and large brown eyes, was dressed in a kimono of red and orange. "She's...another story altogether...you should meet her."

~~~~~​

Aang and Katara were seated on a slightly raised divan. Below them were four young people; the boy who'd climbed the mountain, the girl in red, a delicate looking beauty in a pale yellow dress with her hair up in buns, and a muscly air bender in saffron robes. Aang cleared his throat, "The world needs the Avatar, and...I won't always be around."

The girl in yellow started, "Father, you're not-"

"No, I'm fine, Kyoshi." He smiled at his daughter, "but that doesn't mean I will be a year from now. Or even tomorrow. The world must always have an Avatar, but right now...we have no way of knowing who it will be."

The scene shifted to the teenagers loading a few bags onto the wide saddle of the mighty Appa, the great beast shaggier but no less strong in his old age. Aang's voice continued to speak as they moved about. "Paku, Kyoshi, my children...I need you to go and find out how to identify the next Avatar. The whole world is riding on this, but don't be afraid. I know you can do it. These two, Sheng and Maylin, are going along to be your guardians. And hopefully, your friends. Since this is the whole world's business...it's only right that every nation be represented in this quest."

~~~~~​

Aang pulled Sheng aside, "You know that this quest will take you back to Ba Sing Se."

The young earthbender sighed, "You knew who I was right away, didn't you?" He shook his head. "I know. I'll just have to deal with that when it comes."

"You'll be fine. I know your family, and it's strong, and your sifu's done a good job with you too." The Avatar put a hand on his shoulder. "I'm trusting you with a lot, Sheng. But I know you won't let me down."

Sheng grinned, "That means a lot, Avatar Aang. Sifu's say otherwise, but...she's not always right, is she?"

"Not that we'll tell her that."

"Nope." Sheng looked over at the girl in orange. "So...does Maylin have some connection to you too?"

"No." Aang sighed. "I have a feeling she needs to go along, and I trust my instincts. But...there's something going on with her. Something she's not telling us. She's running from something...and I think whatever it is is chasing her. Keep an eye on her."

Sheng watched the girl bend over to pick up a bag, and grinned broadly. "You have my word."

~~~~~​

The sun was just rising over the sea as the sky bison soared over the endless waves. The four young people sat in a close group, looking toward the horizon ahead...

 

[HookerBoots]

Name: Maylin
Age: 20
Appearance: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/angeicmar/fukiko.jpg
Talent: Firebending

Bio: Maylin has spent a good deal of her life being overlooked. She was smart, but not a genius, talented, but not a prodigy. Her mother cared about her, but her father couldn’t have cared less about her if she were a skunk-bear. So she grew up to be a quiet, happy, talented firebender who was actually burdened with scruples. Her father, however, a relative of the late Admiral Zhao, felt as though Fire Lord Zuko had unjustly overlooked his abilities and advice, leaving the family with ‘a hovel on a patch of grass’ – that is, a 13-room manor on an acre of well-landscaped ground. This modest house is where Maylin lived for most of her life, learning firebending from her mother and her tutors, since her father refused to have his children taught the pro-peace ‘propaganda’ that Fire Nation schools teach now.

One day, six months ago, she was sitting in the study, reading a book on firebending techniques, when the door opened unexpectedly. Since she was in a tall chair facing a window, no one knew she was there, and Maylin became, unexpectedly, aware of a plot that had the potential to change the world completely. Unsure of what would happen, she stayed quiet until the men had all left. Maylin spent that night awake on her futon, trying to decide what to do. Unsure if the Fire Lord would listen to her, and thinking that the plot wasn’t simply a problem of the Fire Nation, Maylin packed as much as she could and left in the dark the next evening, heading for the Southern Air Temple to talk with the Avatar.

As she traveled, however, she found that there were her father’s soldiers after her, and Fire Nation squadrons as well – Fire Lord Zuko was trying to find her as well, perhaps at her father’s urging. Knowing the relationship between the Avatar and the Fire Lord, Maylin changed her mind about telling him what she knew, believing that the mission she would undertake would either circumvent the plot, or earn the trust of the Avatar, so that he would be sure he would believe her.

~ ~ ~ ~​

The sun rising always felt nice. The growing warmth - even if she couldn't feel it - and the feeling of her power growing was very nice as well. Maylin sighed happily, resting her chin on her hands and her elbows on her bent knees. "It looks to be a good morning," she said softly, studying the clouds and the light shining through them.

It was a strange group, their quartet, and she'd never imagined that she'd have wound up traveling with the Avatar's children when she'd set out from her home. But it wasn't bad, being with them. The two young men were handsome, in different ways. Very different from the boys she'd known in the Fire Nation, really, in a good way. And Kyoshi was lovely, as seemingly delicate as a water flower. She was still a little shy, unsure of how they'd react to her. But they didn't judge her for her nationality or her abilities, and that was more than she'd hoped for.

Looking at the others, she offered a small smile to Sheng, the Earthbender. "Should we try to get together a cold breakfast, or wait to eat until we can land and build a fire?"

 

[Glaitron]

OOC: Thanks for inviting me to this thread, guys! Hopefully, White_Jade'll be glad she referred me here

Name: Paku
Age: 20
Talent: Airbender

Bio/Personality: Paku and his twin sister Kyoshi are the oldest children of Avatar Aang and Waterbending Master Katara. Much like his father, Paku is friendly and easy-going, willing to go along with almost anything, and only serious when it's absolutely necessary. Having spent seasons at a time with their Uncle Sokka and Aunt Suki, Paku is skilled at fighting with his hands as well as with weapons and bending. He is very protective of his sisters, Kyoshi especially. No one sees anything wrong with that, since they are twins. But the truth of the matter is that, without their parents' knowledge (probably best, because Katara would have a fit), Kyoshi and Paku have been engaging in incestuous sex for the past year.

Paku is a talented airbender, learning most skills that his father teaches him in one lesson, and was capable of flying on his own at age 13. He is equally adept at other forms of education, and is usually happy to learn anything. His apparent "chill" demeanor is a result of spending more time with his father, who, as the Avatar, has a very zen outlook. Paku also has a talent for landscaping, having helped plan several of the meditation gardens Aang rebuilt around the Air Temple.

~ ~ ~ ~​

Paku opened his eyes to look at Maylin, a small smile passing over his lips. He'd never thought he'd think anyone was a pretty as his sister, but with the orange sunlight shining on her face, Maylin was damn close. Stretching his arms overhead, the young airbender groaned. Waking up early was not his idea of fun, and even though Appa was more comfortable than riding a horse, it was still way too early to be stuck on a saddle and unable to get off.

In more ways than one. His eyes turned to his sister, studying her as she studied the horizon. He could barely resist the urge to reach out and touch her face, kiss her and stroke her. But even though their parents weren't around, two strangers wasn't the audience he wanted for that. Maybe a harem of pretty girls, but not one pretty firebender and one male earthbender. In an effort to distract himself, he rubbed one hand over his head, feeling the stubble growing there. It was time to shave his head again, dammit. At least he'd remembered to bring a razor this time. He'd spent last spring with Uncle Sokka with no razor - and the Southern Water Tribe didn't have one, since they all grew beards. It had itched like hell, and his hair had, embarrassingly, come in curly and pitch black. It was like his scalp had chosen to take parts from both of his parents and look even stupider than he did bald.

Hearing the soft question Maylin asked, he turned to look at her and Sheng. "I could wait for a hot breakfast. Nothing like a good breakfast to start the day . . . I sound like a little old man, don't I?" he asked a little lamely. "But if we don't want to stop, I'd be just as happy with some cheese and bread until lunch."

 

[Armphid]

Name: Sheng-Tu
Age: 20
Talent: Earthbending, trying to learn Metalbending, Style (self-proclaimed)
Appearance: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v316/angeicmar/beachattitude.jpg

Biography: The oldest son of the Earth King and his first wife, Sheng-Tu is the Crown Prince of the Earth Kingdom. Growing up in the glorious city of Ba Sing Se, he had an upbringing that was multi-cultural, fact paced, and often insane. Dai Li remnants loyal to Long Feng or the mad Fire Princess Azula made several attempts at a coup, often involving kidnapping or making attempts on the life of the young prince. After the last and worst of these incidents, the 10 year old prince was shipped off to become the pupil of the greatest Earthbender alive, Toph Bei Fong.

He lived and trained with Toph for the next several years, feeling more at home with her casual home and even often deliberate mistreatment (to make him stronger, of course!) than he had in all of Ba Sing Se's ceremony and bustle. When he was 15, Toph threw him out of her home, telling him he had to go on a training journey, starting with nothing but the clothes on his back. She told him to travel and practice his Earthbending, to see where the roads and trails would take him, and come back when he felt he was ready to challenge her as an equal.

Since then, Sheng has lived as a wanderer. He's criss-crossed the Earth Kingdom a dozen times, ventured to the North Pole twice, spent a year exploring the islands of the Fire Nation, but only recently went to the South Pole. And when there, he was assigned a most unexpected task by the Avatar.

~~~~~​

"Not quite," Sheng added. "You didn't say anything about us young people and our crazy slang or clothes or anything." The Earthbender's smile was a bit shaky, his hands clutching the sides of Appa's saddle. He didn't like this flying bullshit. Not one bit. All that...nothing...underneath them just made his skin crawl. Sifu'd taught him to see like she did, as well as with his eyes, and when he wasn't in contact with the ground...it was like his perception of the world was suddenly coming through a filtering screen. "Nor did you admonish us about how back in your day life was harder. So, I wouldn't worry. You just sound like a monk."

He looked over the side, immediately regretting that choice, pulling back with a slight greenish tinge to his face. "This big guy moves pretty fast, even faster than the Fire Nation's steam ships...so I'm guessing we'll hit Kyoshi Island in a few hours." He paused a moment, not sure how to say this. "Uh, since I don't know exactly how we'll be received...it may not be a bad idea to have a little something now, just in case."

 

[White_Jade]

Name: Kyoshi
Age: 20
Talent: Waterbending, Healing
Appearance: http://www.advancedanime.com/displayimage.php?pid=302179&tq=kimono+and+female+or+yukata+and+female

Bio/Personality: Kyoshi is Paku's twin sister, and the oldest of the Avatar's daughters. Doted on a bit more by her parents than her brother, she's a bit of a princess, though she's not spoiled by any means. Kyoshi takes things more seriously than her brother, for the most part, and her eyes are usually cool and studious. She tends to listen first, think a bit, and then put in her opinion once she's had a chance to turn it over a bit. She does have her goofy moments, often triggered by some new or strange animal she can ride or by new foods. She is also a very sexual young woman, though she hides this from her parents. Her preferences and kinks are many, and she's eager to explore them all. Kyoshi is like the sea in many ways. Once her opinions and feelings are set, they run very deep. Water flows though, so she can change her mind. Sometimes.

Kyoshi is a skilled healer, not just through waterbending, but through the study of first aid and medicine as well. She knows a great deal about treating injuries and illnesses, and is well versed in herb lore.

~~~~~​

Kyoshi felt Paku's eyes on her, and she smiled. She didn't look his way, but he'd know that smile was for him. If she were honest, she'd admit she resented the presence of Sheng and Maylin. If they weren't here...well, she and Paku probably would have already 'broken in' Appa's saddle...

"Don't worry, Sheng." Kyoshi looked back at the young Earthbender. He was so cute! Trying sooo much to act like flying didn't bother him. He was handsome too. Maybe she could convince Paku to invite him in on their fun...or Maylin for that matter. She was gorgeous! Kyoshi'd never been with another girl before, but...well...they WERE going to Kyoshi Island, after all. "The leader of Kyoshi Island is a very close friend of the family, almost family, really. She'll welcome us with open arms."

The water bender sighed a bit. Poor Uncle Sokka...even now, he still proposed to Suki every time they met, and every time she turned him down. "If you're hungry, go ahead and eat. They'll refill out provisions on the island anyway. And having something in your stomach might help to settle your motion sickness a bit."

 

[HookerBoots]

Maylin stifled a giggle. Sheng did look a little green, and it was unfortunate. Looking at the others, she offered a small smile. "If we wanted to toast the bread a little, I can make a small fire in my hand. If Appa's okay with it, of course." The last thing she wanted was having their mode of transportation - which happened to be a giant bison - mad at her. "We could toast the bread and melt the cheese a little."

Simple conversation about breakfast. It was comforting, normal. Even though she wasn't that used to having conversations about common stuff. But this was nice. A refreshing change to being tracked by soldiers and crawling through woods alone. She'd feel terrible if they had to do that because of her, but if what she'd heard was true, it might happen anyway, once word of their trip got out.

"I only stopped at Kyoshi Island to catch the ferry - I didn't have time to look around. What's it like?" Maylin directed the question at Sheng, since Paku had started digging in one of the packs Avatar Aang had given them as soon as his sister voiced an opinion.

 

[Armphid]

Sheng felt a bit better after being asked that question. They had a lot of power on this trip, yeah, but he could also provide knowledge. Hell, after five years of wandering the earth, he felt confident in knowing just about everywhere there was to go! "Kyoshi Island is a really nice place, actually."

He looked up at the clouds passing by overhead. Funny, they didn't look any bigger. Maybe they weren't that high up. "It's a pretty big island, since it used to be part of the main continent and got broken off by our pretty waterbender's namesake. Even with that though, there aren't a lot of people. There's only one big town, and a few outlying farms. Most of it is forested hills, low ones, and the seashore. The trees and the riches of the ocean are they depend on. There's giant koi fish in the southern bay of the island, and a giant sea eel too...so they don't send boats out of there. Also keeps the port pretty safe."

He sat up a bit straighter, warming to his subject. "They're Earth Kingdom, but being isolated like they are, there are a lot of differences. One is how matriarchal they are. Ever since Avatar Kyoshi, the women of the island have been more involved in a lot of the governing and even fighting, the men doing most of the work, crafting, and such. They have male warriors, of course, but their most elite and highly trained fighters are a band of girls and women. They're chosen to join the warriors as children, and train their whole lives. You'll see them when they're there. They wear heavy armored robes and paint their faces."

He quirked an eyebrow, "Not many women leave the warriors once they join, and I've heard those that do are kind of shunned. The women warriors are said to be "married" to the island itself, so they don't take husbands. In fact, there's a pretty hefty undercurrent of sexism among them, kind of the reverse of what you see in other parts of the world. It's said that they'd never take a man as a lover unless he was one of the greatest men of his age, and instead take comfort in each others' arms." He shrugged, "But that may not be true."

"Umm...what else..." He crossed his arms over his chest. "Well, they love the Avatar. Not just Avatar Kyoshi and Avatar Aang either, but the Avatar as a whole. They have a cultural belief in helping the Avatar, whoever it is, as one of the primary duties and purposes of their society. So they should be willing to help us."

He then shrugged, "Sorry, I've been going on, haven't I? It may not be much, but...that should help give you some idea. And once we get there...I"ll be glad to show you around, Maylin." He smiled winningly, "I'd be glad to give you a personal tour of anywhere you'd like to go."

 

[Glaitron]

Victoriously, Paku straightened up from his hunt in their packs, holding a loaf of bread and a large wedge of cheese. "These should do it!" Pulling his knife out, he started cutting the bread into thick slices and setting them casually on Kyoshi's lap. "Anyway, Sheng's mostly right. One of the tenets of being a Kyoshi warrior is to have minimal congress with men." His grin was wicked as he cut a final slab of bread and tossed it onto the small pile on his sister's lap.

"However, a lot of them don't mind that one much, and are just very discreet. Aunt Suki, for example, isn't really our aunt. She's Uncle Sokka's lover. Refuses to marry him, even though she loves him, and he loves her." He set the remaining bread in his lap, picking up the cheese and beginning to slice that. "As for them finding comfort with each other . . . I've never seen it, but then, I'm male. They are very welcoming to women, though." He tucked the knife away and slipped the cheese back into the bags, pulling out a piece of cloth to wrap the bread in. "So you and Kyoshi should be greeted with open arms. There, if you want to start the fire, I think we're all set."

He was a bit interested to see how she managed this. Father could make fire, but he had a hard time making small flames and holding them. And he rarely used firebending, just because there was little need for it at the Air Temple. Uncle Zuko, though, trained every day. Firebending was fascinating. And useful! He couldn't make a fire with his airbending, and he couldn't cook himself a thing, period. Maybe having these two along wouldn't be so bad. As he gathered up the bread from Kyoshi and scooted over to where Maylin sat, he thought it wasn't that bad to begin with. She was striking, and looked even lovelier up close.

 

[HookerBoots]

Maylin blushed as Sheng offered to show her around. He was so handsome, and it seemed like he was interested in her. She'd never had that before; most of the boys that had tried to 'court' her had been boys her father thought were suitable and pointed in her direction. And he'd never approve of Sheng. Not a firebender, not even Fire Nation! And that long hair that she wanted to run her fingers through was a clear invitation to anyone in a fight. "I'd like that, thank you," she said, smiling slightly.

When Paku said he was ready, she nodded once and lifted her arms over her head, closing her eyes and breathing deeply. With a thought, she began to pull on the training she'd gotten, and moved her arms slowly in an arc down from over her head and bringing them together with a clap. A spark formed, and Maylin furrowed her brow in concentration. It grew from a small spark to a little tongue of fire, dancing over her palm. Her eyes opened and she smiled. As long as she didn't lose herself completely, it should stay for as long as she wanted it to.

"All right, let's cook," she said with a laugh, holding out her hand-held cooking tool. "It shouldn't take too long to toast and melt." As she took the first piece of bread and cheese, holding it over the fire, Maylin leaned against the railing on the saddle. "This is kind of nice. A lot smoother than a boat, and a lot faster, too. Do you travel like this often?" A flickered glance at Sheng and she stifled a giggle again. "I mean, Paku and Kyoshi. Being an earthbender, I'd wager Sheng doesn't fly much at all."

 

[White_Jade]

Kyoshi had a rather resigned expression when Paku started to stack bread in her lap. Couldn't he have said "Hey, can you hold this" at least? Oh, well. That was just him. So ready to get on to the next thing. She smiled fondly. It got him in trouble sometimes though, and even made him seem insensitive.

The quiet water bender piped up when Paku was talking about the warriors of Kyoshi Island. "Open arms, and maybe more," she said softly, with just a hint of a smile. It was bolder than she usually was. But then...she was away from home without her parents for the first time in her life! It was time to show a bit more of her true self. The aspects she kept hidden at home. Not all at once, of course. But over time. "Don't think you two are out of luck either, boys. Ty Lee will be there, and she LIKES younger men."

She watched the cooking demonstration with interest. She'd seen firebending before, but only once with such precision. That was Uncle Zuko, who was the greatest fire bender alive. Mother and Father had such an aversion to the Fire Nation and it's people that Father usually traveled there alone, so while she'd seen some of this sort of thing, it wasn't much. She tried to stay demurely seated, but she couldn't help leaning forward a bit to get a closer look.

At Maylin's question, she nodded. "We've rarely traveled any other way. Uncle Sokka took us on ships several times, he felt it was part of our heritage so we should know how to sail, and fish, and use a rope properly, tie knots, and so on. BOth sail boats and steam ships. We've been on his submarines several times as well...though you should ask Paku about that if you want the details." She shrugged, "I was busy providing the movement, so I wasn't really paying attention to much else." She pursed her lips, "Let's see...Uncle Zuko took us on an airship once. And when we traveled through the Earth Kingdom several years ago, we took the Earth Rail."

 

[Armphid]

Sheng got a bit distracted when Maylin did her firebending. And it wasn't her technique that got to him. It was how she looked when she stretched her arms over her head and took in that deep breath. Spirits have mercy. He did have to admit that her control was impressive. He'd never seen fire bending on so small a scale before. He'd seen a lot, and even fought a few fire benders...but this was a different kind of technique. "Pretty impressive. I've never seen fire bending so...well, small isn't the right word, but it's all I can think of."

Kyoshi's comment had taken him a bit aback. At the Air Temple, she'd been so retiring and demure. It looked like she had a lot going on under the surface though. Intriguing. "That's good, as I am young and a man," he bantered back at her. "But I don't know that our priority should be talking about hook up possibilities, you know. Not to be a kill joy."

 

[HookerBoots]

Maylin handed the first piece of bread and cheese to Sheng. "Here, hopefully it'll help your stomach. And thank you. It's a tough technique to master," she added, holding another piece of bread over the flame in her hand. "It's a lot easier just to set something on fire and cook over it. But I don't think Appa would want that on his back." It was sort of flattering how they all watched her. It was honest curiousity, not condemning or suspicious. Cooking theater!

"And really, I think that learning about hooking up possibilities is very important," she joked, shifting the bread slightly for even toasting. "At least we'll know who won't be trying to stop us, right?" It was nice to joke, to be around people who were relaxed. Well, within reason. This wasn't really a pleasure trip they were taking.

As the cheese on the second piece of bread started to melt, she flipped her hand over and browned the top, then handed it to Kyoshi. "And for the lovely lady," she said with a smile. Oh, no. Had that been forward? With the Avatar's daughter? Shit.

Picking up the next piece, she forced a smile. "The next one is yours, Paku, and the toaster eats last."

 

[White_Jade]

The motion which Kyoshi used to take the offered food was nothing short of artistry. Her lips curved into a gentle, welcoming smile, and she leaned forward just a little bit, her bright, taking a breath to make her chest swell. Her fingers brushed the back of Maylin's hand and then trailed over the fire bender's digits before she took the breakfast creation. "Thank you, Maylin. For the food, and the compliment." She lowered her voice just a hair, inserting a bit of warmth...juuust a sliver. "But I wasn't sure if you were talking about me or you at first."

Then she leaned back, crunching into the toast. Sheng seemed to not have really noticed, probably too distracted by his discomfort with flying and trying to eat while in this kind of motion. But Paku was staring at her, shocked. He was the only one she'd ever done anything like that to before. She smiled at her brother, and winked when she thought the other two couldn't see.

So...was Maylin...that way? Or maybe she liked boys AND girls. Wouldn't that be nice? "I have a very good feeling about this journey," she said for no apparent reason.

 

[HookerBoots]

Almost against her will, Maylin flushed at the way Kyoshi had taken her breakfast. The flame in her hand flared a little, almost burning the bread before she remembered what she was doing and got the fire under control. What was she doing? She wasn't an amateur! Just because a pretty girl did that . . . even if that pretty girl was the Avatar's daughter . . . maybe it had just been so long since she'd had an experience like that with a girl that it was flustering her more than it should.

But if she was reading things right . . . "I think it will be a good trip, yes." With a happy little grin, she flipped her hand over to brown the cheese, and offered it to Paku. "There you go," she said with a winning smile. If anything was going to happen with Kyoshi - though it was a big if, since Maylin could barely believe that it was possible - she didn't want Paku to be upset by it. And he was less likely to be upset if he liked her too. It didn't hurt that he was absolutely gorgeous as well. She'd seen him and Avatar Aang doing some training at the Air Temple, and . . . well, she'd had good dreams that night.

As he took it, she lifted the last piece of bread and laid the cheese over the top. "And now me. Ahhh, tasty grilled cheese."

 

[Glaitron]

Had his sister . . . damn. The way she looked at Maylin, and that deep breath . . . spirits! Paku caught the winks Kyoshi gave him and responded with a broad grin. She was a bad, bad girl. And he loved it.

He finally noticed Maylin offering him the bread, and took it, smiling at her warmly. Her smile was bright and lovely, charming. "Thank you, Maylin. It's really nice of you to cook these for us." And it was. But the smile she gave him was even nicer. How had he gotten so lucky? Even if he had to share them with Sheng, both of the girls were so amazingly beautiful that he was one of the luckiest guys on earth.

Looking up, he squinted into the sun. There was a speck there, and it was growing larger and larger. They'd made amazing time, even considering how early they'd left. "Better eat quick. I can see the island ahead." Taking a big bite of the crisp bread and cheese, he leaned back on the railing. "Ah, Kyoshi Island. Home of some of the prettiest women who can kick your ass on the planet."

 

[Armphid]

Sheng made a soft grunt of disagreement, "Kick your ass, maybe," he muttered. Not that he thought Paku was a push over or anything. Or that the Warriors of Kyoshi were unskilled. He just...it was part of his sifu's training and ideology that had seeped into him. He couldn't admit that someone might be better than him...unless it was sifu, of course. In a louder voice, he commented, "I don't know, Paku. I think we've got the two prettiest right here."

Awww, yeah. Still got it, baby.

The simple meal was good, and to his surprise, it did help settle his stomach. He was glad of that. He didn't want to look weak in front of the mighty and sexy Kyoshi Warriors. He hated looking weak. Just the thought made him furious...okay, okay...cool it. Right.

Sheng crawled toward the front of the saddle, kneeling up to catch the wind rushing over Appa as he put on a bit more speed now that land was in sight. "You know...maybe, just maybe...this flying thing isn't so bad. I can't believe we got here so fast." It was almost unbelievable. The fastest he'd ever traveled over any major distance was by Earth Rail...and he wasn't sure that would have been this fast. Suddenly, surprising even himself, Sheng threw himself forward onto Appa's head. His hands took hold of the thick fur, the young earth bender leaning over the side to look the bison in the eye, "You really live up to your legend, big guy!"

Appa grunted. It seemed like an appreciative grunt. He may have just had gas.

~~~~~​

Needing no directing on where to go, the massive bison headed straight for the island distinctive beach. Under the blue water, the darker shapes of the giant koi could be made out as they swum to and fro. There was a small group of people waiting on the beach. As Appa swooped in, two of them started to wave excitedly. One was a girl of perhaps 14, and the other a much older woman, though she exuded a youthful energy and positive aura...as well as having a very young looking body. There were three other Kyoshi warriors, including Suki. There was also a kindly looking old man wearing a simple robe with a saffron sash.

Appa landed heavily, groaning out that they'd reached their destination. Before anyone else could get off, Sheng leaped to the sand. He almost whooped with happiness when his feet hit the earth and all that sensory information flowed back to him. That was part of why he wanted off, yeah, but he also felt that...well, he was here to protect the twins. So he should go first, just in case.

Suki quirked an eyebrow, but smiled a bit. She knew that feeling. "Looks like you're working out all right. So far." She beamed at the sight of her dear...friends. She shouldn't think of them as her neice and nephew, even though...

"Kyoshi, Paku! It's good to see you." She beamed, the warriors behind her bowing reverently, the old priest inclining his head. After a moment, the buxom warrior who'd waved bowed too, after winking at Sheng. "Welcome to Kyoshi Island. I'm happy you got here safely."

 

[HookerBoots]

Maylin leaped lightly off the swell of the bison's back, staying a little back from the twins as they approached the waiting group. It was sort of strange to be meeting these new people when they were so well-acquainted with Kyoshi and Paku. But the enthusiastic older woman stepped forward to her and stuck out her hand. "Hi! I'm Ty Lee, you're Fire Nation, right?"

Maylin blinked, and held out her hand slowly. "It's nice to meet you. I'm Maylin . . . ." She managed to avoid blurting out her surname, which would sort of blow her whole incognito plan. Fortunately, Ty Lee didn't seem to notice and shook her hand vigourously.

"It's great to meet another Fire Nation person! They never come through here hardly at all!" She pouted fetchingly. "The last time was when Zuko and Mei were on their way to the Air Temple, and they only stayed for lunch." Letting go of Maylin's hand, Ty Lee turned to look at the rest of the group. She leaned in to whisper, "They're handsome, aren't they?"

Maylin, for herself, was a little surprised. She'd heard Ty Lee's name before - she was one of the people who had helped Fire Lord Zuko's coup, after betraying his sister, Azula. The woman was practically a living legend! She hadn't thought that the others were talking about THAT Ty Lee. "Yes, they are."

At that moment, Suki looked over at them with a small smile. "And this must be the firebender that Aang asked to help you." Motioning to Maylin, her smile broadened. "It's good to meet another friend of the Avatar's family. I'm Suki, leader of the warriors here. I see you've met Ty Lee." She rested a gentle hand on the youngest girl's shoulder. "This is my daughter, Seung. She's a warrior in training."

Maylin bowed. "It is an honor to meet you, my lady."

 

[White_Jade]

Kyoshi had moved to one side of the gathering as the others made their introductions and socialized. She would have liked to as well, but there was the matter of their quest. "Abbott, thank you for coming down and meeting us." The slender water witch bowed to the elderly priest.

He laughed, "Please, Lady Kyoshi, it is I who owe you a debt of gratitude. Your arrival has added a bit of spice to the routine I've lived with for the past forty years or so, and it's much welcome." Despite his extreme age, his eyes were bright and alert. He looked over at the small group as Paku was talking animatedly to Seung and two of the warriors, Maylin and Sheng were in consultation with Suki until Ty Lee came up behind them, draping an arm over each young person and asking if she could borrow them for the night. Laughter bubbled up from the group, and the old man sighed. "Not only that, but to see children of all four nations together, laughing as one...well...it's something I wasn't sure to see in my lifetime." He nodded his head, "Now then. I'm told you came here to speak to me."

"Yes." Kyoshi paused, arranging her thoughts. "You know the history of the war, right?" The old man nodded. "Then you know that the Avatar Artifacts were lost in the razing of the Southern Air Temple. My father has come to realize that without them...we have no way of knowing who the next Avatar will be."

"I see." The old priest frowned, "Is the Avatar...unwell?"

Kyoshi almost smiled at the concern in the dear old fellow's voice. "He's fine. As spry and healthy as a bird-horse. But he won't always be, and he feels it's best to handle this now rather than wait until it's a crisis."

"Avatar Aang has grown wise then." He chuckled, "It wasn't always so, but it's good to see." His feet were shuffling slightly, a kind of excitement seeming to come over the holy man. "I think...I remember reading something that may help you in the documents at the temple. It was many years ago, before you were born, likely...but it should still be there." Abruptly, he turned away, heading up the beach toward the town. "We will begin looking through our records immediately, Lady Kyoshi. Please leave it to us."

"Thank you, abbott." Kyoshi watched the old man move...with surprising speed and certainty, actually. She suspected that the nature of this inquiry had caught his interest, as had a chance to be useful to the children of the Avatar. Smiling, she rejoined the group.

"How about just the boys then?"

"Not now, Ty Lee," Suki said with a shake of her head. That woman was her appetites! Not that she could blame her. They were both prime examples of young manhood. "Perhaps later."

Kyoshi coughed, one delicate hand over her mouth. The small sound caught the attention of the others, "The abbott thinks he may be able to help. He's left to start searching the temple's library."

Suki nodded. "Girls." The two unnamed warriors stiffened to attention, Seung doing so a moment later. "Escort the abbott back to the temple and stay there. Escort him to us once his search is complete."

Seung quirked an eyebrow, "Mom, it's not like anyone's going to hurt the Abbott. Everyone knows him, and it's the island! Nothing's going to happen." Suki's face got a bit steely, "I mean, uh, Yes, leader! We'll go...now."

Kyoshi smirked behind her hand. Seung was a lot like Uncle Sokka.

The three warriors ran off, catching up with the old priest and forming up around him. Suki nodded with a faint smile. "Well, since that's taken care of, Ty Lee and I will show you to the guest lodge. I'm sure we've got lots to talk about, and dinner won't be too far off."

 

[Glaitron]

Paku exchanged a grin with Suki as they watched Seung walk off with the other warriors. Eventually, his cousin would learn that there were times when mom and the warrior leader weren't the same. But she was getting there. But then a word caught his ears. "Dinner? How soon?"

Suki laughed and threw an arm around his shoulders. "Soon enough, Paku. Under two hours."

"If you're hungry, I think there might be something in my room that you could eat . . . ow!" Ty Lee rubbed her side where Suki had elbowed her. "I mean, I can't wait to catch up about what's going on with your mom and dad!"

Paku bit the inside of his cheek. Ty Lee had, at best, a rocky relationship with Katara, in part because the acrobat kept flirting with pretty much everyone. Including Aang. "They're both good, thank you, Ty Lee."

He watched the people around him walk, knowing it wasn't really subtle of him. But who could resist watching his sister and Maylin (and Ty Lee; even though she was older, the woman had a body that could shame most teenagers) walk in front of them? The problem was that his eyes weren't sure where to focus, and kept jumping around. It was indecent! How could a man stay strong when faced with such firm, round . . . shit. Suki had asked him a question!

Mentally scrambling for what she'd asked, he blinked. "Umm . . . early this morning. We made very good time, really." Looking back, he paused for a second. "Aunt Suki, are you sending people with food for Appa?"

Her mock-offended look made him almost laugh. "Of course I am! What kind of hostess do you think I am?"

 

[Armphid]

Sheng grinned at Paku. He wasn't a very good monk, was he? Though he understood, being a pretty lustful guy himself. And this...was one fine display of womanhood they had before them. It was also one of great authority. Which might provide him with an opportunity he'd never had before...

"I'm sorry to interrupt this, but...Lady Suki, I've been here many times before. Each time, I petitioned to be allowed to spar with one of more of the Kyoshi Warriors. And-"

"You were turned down each time," the warrior woman's painted face turned to regard him calmly. "I know. I was the one who denied your requests. We are not performers, nor are we an obstacle to overcome for those who feel they have something to prove."

"But I do have something to prove now," Sheng smiled. It was not a very nice smile. It was toothy and savage, almost a snarl. It was eager and hot blooded, hungry for combat. Suki quirked an eyebrow. "Well...whether or not I'm good enough to protect Paku and Kyoshi." She blinked at him. "The Avatar and Lady Katara never saw me fight. Neither have any of my companions. As far as any of them know...I've never thrown a punch in my life."

Ty Lee laughed, "You sound like you're doing a bad Azula impression!"

Suki grimaced. It wasn't that bad. Because he did have a point. "I'm sure Aang wouldn't have put you here if he didn't trust your skills. I know who your sifu is, young earth bender...and I've no doubt if you learned from her and survived, that you're up to the task."

Sheng frowned, a frustrated growl barely muffled in his throat, "This isn't just a frivolous request, you know. This isn't a game to me. I need to test myself against the best there is. It's part of the charge Sifu gave me when she sent me out on this journey. And the Kyoshi Warriors are some of the greatest non-bender fighters in the world!"

 

[HookerBoots]

Maylin stayed quiet, her eyes flickering back and forth. Sheng was very upset over this, and there didn't seem to be a way out of it unless Suki gave in. And just looking at her, Maylin was certain that the older woman didn't give in easily. Then something occured to her, and she bit her lower lip.

"Pardon me, Lady Suki . . . I would like to add my request to Sheng's." The warrior blinked at her and opened her mouth. "My sifu is not known to you or the Avatar, and I really was picked because no one else was available. I would like the chance to prove myself to my companions and to those who care for them." Bowing low, she looked at the other woman. "Please, Lady Suki. Allow me the chance to show my value."

 

[White_Jade]

Kyoshi hid a smile behind one hand. They were both so serious! Although, that was sort of funny coming from her, as she was usually seen as the serious one. She'd seen people who enjoyed sparring and fighting before. She could even enjoy a good match herself, but Sheng's intensity was both impressive and a bit off-putting. Though she did think that neither of them had a very good argument, she was curious to see what they could do.

She lowered her sleeve, "You know, Suki, last time I visited, I remember you saying that you were starting a new training curriculum for the experienced warriors that included anti-bending techniques."

"That's true." Suki narrowed her eyes a bit. She could see where Kyoshi was going. She was backing them up. That was interesting. Unlike a lot of the other adults, Suki understood just how much Kyoshi hid behind her serious and chaste demeanor. It came from wearing the paint for most of her life probably. She wasn't quite the same person with it on as she was when it was off. "We have, other than the advanced classes that learn Ty Lee's chi manipulation forms. This is for warriors who simple don't have the ability to learn what Ty Lee can teach, but may still face opponents who can bend."

Kyoshi's demure smile barely hinted at the triumph she felt. That was all she needed to win this little skirmish. "A very good idea. You know...I wonder, have they had much chance to practice against any actual benders?"

"...No." Suki grimaced. Damn it, the girl was right. She hadn't even said it yet, but she would, and she'd be right. "The few earth benders we have are working on the Earth Rail bridge on the island's north side."

"Then it may be a good idea to let those girls try what they've learned against the actual thing, don't you think?" The slender water witch shrugged a bit, "It's rare opportunity to see what works and what doesn't. Of course, they may not be ready for it yet, I suppose..."

 

[Glaitron]

Paku hid a smile under the guise of looking at the houses on either side of them. His sister was shrewd, and even though he thought Sheng and Maylin were being foolish, he also thought it might be a good idea if they did it. Since they both wanted to prove themselves, this would be a good chance. Otherwise, they'd be edgy and withdrawn - well, not withdrawn, that seemed impossible for Sheng - and looking for a chance to prove themselves. Turning to Suki, his smile dampened but not vanished, Paku added, "It might be a very good chance for them to learn, then. And I'm sure Suki's warriors are as ready as they can be for this."

The warrior leader looked at the young air bender, her mouth pursed slightly. "I suppose I'm outvoted on this." When he did nothing but grin at her, she sighed. "Very well. But not until tomorrow. I want to make sure that the warriors are the right ones." She looked at Sheng and Maylin. "Also, you two will be fighting together against them."

"I'm sure they'll be up to the challenge, my lady," he said with a little bow. It would be fascinating to see them fight together, since they'd never fought together before. He would also be interested to see Maylin stripped down for combat. But that would be something he'd have to think more about when his aunt wasn't looking at him.

 

[Armphid]

"Ha ha, all right!" Sheng almost danced with glee. Magnificent! He'd wanted a match like this for years now. It was good to know people, it seemed. "Thank you, Lady Suki." The traveler bowed low, his hands saluting her. "I am honored by your granting us this favor, and will remember it in the future as a sign of friendship."

Ty Lee tilted her head to one side, "Now he sounds like Zuko or Aang being all official." The acrobat looked over at Kyoshi, "I wonder which one we've seen so far is the real him? Do you think he knows?"

Suki nodded, acknowledging the young man's thanks. Well, he could be polite at least. He hadn't learned that from Toph though. "We'll see if you feel that way after tomorrow." She was proud of her girls after all, and they were very good, and she'd put quite a few against them. "Ah, here we are."

The house was in the open style of the other island houses, but it was larger than most of them, and aside from the main room was divided into two wings. "This is where our honored guests stay. The main chamber is used for dining and conversation, each wing has a bedroom and a bath." They entered the home, Suki pointing off to the left, "Girls, you'll be over there tonight. And you boys to the right."

 

[HookerBoots]

Maylin was just as please and Sheng, but a little more subdued. She wasn't really sure she'd be able to help at all in this sparring match, but she'd do her best. She hadn't ever actually fought anyone, really. There had been a few close calls, but she'd thought it was better to run than fight when it was four against one. But this . . . well, she'd give it her all.

When they reached the house, she looked around eagerly. The house was well-furnished, very pretty. She liked it. Though there was a moment of sadness that they wouldn't all get to bunk together. Probably for the best, though. "Thank you, Lady Suki. This looks very comfortable."

Glancing at the others, she smiled. "If you wouldn't mind, I'd love a chance to clean up a little before dinner. I think I have a dead bug in my hair," she added with a small smile.

Suki nodded, bowing. "That is a good idea, Maylin. We'll leave you all to settle in, and then see you at dinner. Come on, Ty Lee."