If anyone needed a place to hide. Then the crime-infested, overpopulated mess that was Gong Hejin was an outlaw's paradise. Or so was the saying.
Situated in the middle of what was once four kingdoms, now three, the sprawling city by the shore had once been a trade and cultural hub between all peoples and cultures, where ideas and goods once flowed in and out of the harbor as easily as the tide. A shining example of how cooperation and goodwill between cultures could benefit everyone regardless of their differences.
But that was before the fire nation had moved in. And now that they were everywhere, such times had well and truly faded into memory.
The wealthy city had been one of the first to be invaded when the war had started and although the earth kingdom had defended its borders proudly, they were eventually forced to withdraw their armies. Now the fire nation had tightened its chokehold on the one once profitable city to the point that the town was now slowly dying. Foreign trade had been halted, and the influx of wealthy Fire nation citizens seeking land and fortune on the new continental colony had put an already overwhelming burden on the city already struggling under the strict heel of the Fire nation.
But to Bin, the arrival of freshly optimistic and clueless fire nation nobles was a blessing gifted straight from the spirits above.
There were now eight Fire Nation citizens to every Earth Kingdom one in a city of four million, so this meant it was supremely easy for just another firebender to blend into the crowds and stay unnoticed. Assuming one knew how to not get caught.
Bin very much knew how. He had become quite accustomed to his now routine trade of practice.
The handsome young firebender with spiky black hair and goatee, dressed in common tattered red pants and sleeveless maroon tunic stood in wait like a predator outside his usual hunting ground. The financial district. And from what he saw. Today would indeed be a good day of business indeed.
Bin had been perched atop a crate of unsold goods that had been placed carelless against a wall for quite some time. He was growing restless as he watched passersby's for hours go about their business. Enjoying the shade of the green roof tiles above and feeding some breadcrumbs to a group of hungry elephant rats that huddled beneath him. He enjoyed their company and they had a lot in common. They both knew the ins and outs of the city, for instance and knew when to lay low and seek out opportunity.
As Bin ripped off and tossed pieces of the stale bread his eyes darted from one oblivious person to another. A few peasants, soldiers, and assorted merchants but nothing that piqued his interest. Nothing like a big meaty prize to start his morning. Just as Bin was about to take a bite out of his bread he stopped. His amber eyes then subtly turned to see an old beanpole of a man dressed in red and gold finery with numerous jeweled rings heading his way through the crowd right toward him, the way he lifted his head in a very snooty manner gave a pretty good indication that this guy was used the poor and displaced getting out of his way. Time to break that little illusion.
Bin dusted himself off and cracked his knuckles to get to work.
"You'll do."
Just as the old noble passed in front of the crates, Bin leaped down from the shadowed pile of crates and suddenly knelt, making it look as if he had just been intending to offer up the last bit of bread to his little mates beneath him.
The old man suddenly stumbled and tripped into a bin like a boulder and fell flat on his face with a loud thwap sending the rats scattering in all directions.
The nobleman was clearly very disgusted by the influx of vermin in his presence. Bin included
"Stay out of the way of nobility you disgusting urchin! The snooty well-dressed man yelled. Do you have any idea who you are dealing with?!!! The man violently shoved Bin off of him and stood tall to confront him.
Some rich idiot? Bin wanted to say. But of course, he didn't say that.
What he really said was.
"I'm so sorry sir!! It was my fault entirely. Bin said, bowing to the ground and putting on a pretty convincing quivering voice. Please forgive my foolishness!! Bin approached hastily and began attempting to dust the man off of dirt and straw. Please let me help you! Bin said, reaching around behind the man and patting the dirt off his back.
Unhand me you peasant!! I should have common sense to call the guards on you.
Oh, dear no! Bin exclaimed dramatically, bowing and kneeling on all fours. I have dishonored myself by being in your presence. Please take pity on me, oh great and wise man of noble birth. I have fourteen children and a sick wife who depend upon me! It would break their hearts. Please have mercy upon a poor kindred fire nation soul down on his luck!!"
Bin clutched tightly to the bottom of the man's robes for added effect as an act of total helplessness and submission. He even threw in a few tears and loud wailing sobs for good measure. He knew if there was one thing nobles liked, it was for others to grovel before them and say they were sorry. Made them feel good about themselves.
The well-dressed man rolled his eyes at the pathetic gesture, scrunched his nose in disgust, and hiked up his robes away from Bin's grip. "You're lucky I don't have time to waste myself with the likes of you, next time you won't be." The noble combed the loose strands of gray hair obscuring his face and continued on his merry way down the street as if nothing further undignified or embarrassing had happened. Unbeknownst to him it had.
His big fat coin purse was now strangely absent. And he hadn't even noticed it.
Bin rose to his feet grinning and was already counting the spoils on his way to his favorite tea shop to spend the nice man's money. Such a nice man indeed.
The skilled con artist and thief entered the large tavern known as the snake den and took a seat in the corner to keep to himself and wait for his favorite server Kishe as usual. It would be a while by the looks of things but he wouldn't rush her.
"I'll be with you in a moment Bin." She said with a quick smile as she brushed by holding multiple trays balanced carefully on her hands and head. They were all stacked on top of one another like a tower of cards, looking as if they would fall over at any moment and come crashing to the floor. They never did though. He was constantly amazed by her control and fluidity. Watching as she quickly circled from one table to another, never once bumping into anything. More precise and controlled than an acupuncturist's needle. He thought fondly. Simply amazing.
I have to ask her out at some point. He contemplated hopefully.
When she came over, Bin decided he would give her a bigger tip than usual this time. Might as well put some of that nobleman's money for a good cause he grinned wickedly to himself. It was the least he could do when she had to put up with Fire Nation patrons all day. He could never do what she does. Or pretend like they weren't a bother. He hated what his home country had become.
Bin surveyed the large center table of the room to see that It was packed end to end with even more fire nation soldiers than usual. He grimaced in disgust at the sight of the drunken group of young fire nation soldiers roughhousing and arm wrestling to the amusement of their comrades in arms. One was even relieving himself against a wall in the corner. They were having fun and enjoying themselves. The bartender and other nervous Earth Kingdom patrons. Not so much. Everyone else kept silent and their heads low. That was how you survived these days. The rowdy men dressed in blood red and smoke-black spiked armor had made this unlucky establishment a frequent of theirs to rest and recuperate from their usual pillaging, and many were clearly enjoying themselves in the city now completely at their mercy. Under the new law, all earth citizens in the region had to provide free food and shelter whenever demanded by a fire nation soldier. And many were letting this newfound freedom get to their arrogant heads. Blood stained leeches sucking the life of this once beautiful city dry.
"Another round Bartender!!!" One soldier exclaimed judiciously. Slamming his mug on the table to the cheers and laughter of his rowdy comrades circling him, causing their sinister white skull helmets to shake beside them. The bartender, a small balding old man in green bowed in submission and nervously began pouring more mugs quickly as if his life depended on it because it most definitely did. Bin felt sorry for the man, at this rate they were going to drink him dry and put him out of business. This felt wrong. But the old man could do nothing to object so he indulged them as best he could. What else could you do really? Say no to the ones who had your life in the palm of their hands?
"Here you are, sirs." The man said timidly. "Carefully placing their drinks before them. Will you require anything else this evening?"
One bearded, much portlier fire bender soldier belched and demanded different more noodles be served now. And that different music be played by the band on stage. "Fire nation music. None of the Earth kingdom somber crap."
"Very well sir." The man nodded, clearly offended, but doing his best not to show it. He gestured to the band on the stage to quickly play something different lest they upset their honored guests. The band switched tunes to something livelier and fast-paced, sweat running down their foreheads not from enthusiasm at their craft, but fear. Watching in nervous terror as the golden eyes of the dozens Fire Nation soldiers watched them in unsettling silence with sick smiles of amusement smeared across each of their twisted faces.
Bin shook his head disgusted with the drunken brutes but didn't say anything as usual. That was how you survived by not interfering and pushing your luck. That only made things worse.
"A shame, I liked that song." He suddenly heard from behind his head.
Bin turned to see a young man with dark short black hair dressed in gray and green sleeveless rags sipping his drink calmly beside him, one arm resting against the corner booth as if he already owned it.
"Yeah me too." Bin agreed. He had grown up listening to the music of all four nations and had embraced and loved them all equally, these days however it seemed the fire nation was hellbent on spreading the influence of their homeland at the expense of all the others. As if the reminder that the world didn't revolve around them was a horrendous offense itself.
"It figures." the cocky young man said. "The fire nation is already a bunch of stuck-up killjoys, but they can't even let us enjoy some good old-fashioned earth kingdom music because it offends their delicate little ears? What a bunch of wimpy little snail toads if you ask me."
"Better not let them hear you say that." Bin smiled, glancing toward the fire nation table. Might get in trouble."
"Ahh but you won't tell, will you?!" The man said sliding in beside the booth and making himself right at home with Bin, his spontaneous unwilling new friend. "I can tell that about people. Call it a gift of intuition."
"No, I won't," Bin reassured and grinned as he felt a subtle gesture against his back pocket. "Provided you give me back the money you just stole from me."
The man turned silent.
"Wow, you're good."
Bin grinned. "You have no idea. Now please." Bin reached out his hand and flexed his fingers. "The gold?"
"Fine." The man slapped Bin's coin purse back in his hand defeated before adjusting more comfortably in his seat beside the man he had just tried to rob.
"You make a half-decent thief." Bin complimented. "But you have to work on your approach when you reach for the money."
"A criminal? Me?" The man made a wide exaggerated face and placed a hand to his chest like a dainty old lady. "My dear friend, you offend me. I don't know what you're talking about good sir. Even if I was, what could possibly give you the indication of such?"
Bin pointed his fingers and gestured to the pair of not-exactly discreet green and gold nun chucks decorated with emeralds hanging by the man's belt. They looked like they belonged on a nobleman's shelf or in a great earth general's trophy room. Not poor commoners like themselves.
"If I'm not mistaken, and I very rarely usually am. Weapons of that high quality don't belong on someone like you or me. So, this begs the question. Bin leaned in closer. "Where'd you get them?"
The man let out an ugly smile in defeat and twirled a nun chuck in his hands with a blur to show off his skill. "Alright Guilty. I saw them and I just had to have them. You know how it is.
"Can't blame you. I'd have stolen them too before you If I could. Heck I might steal them from you now."
The two laughed at each other, both a bit relieved there was a sort of code of honor among thieves, at least when it was convenient and safe. But for now, Bin seemed to enjoy the company of this scoundrel of a similar heart and mind. He could put off robbing him to probably sometime later after their little chat he supposed.
Bin reached out his arm for a solid sturdy handshake. "Names Bin. You?"
Malo." He replied after a bit, strangely hesitant. As if saying his own name felt alien. He put away the nun chuck with a flair of his wrist and shook Bin's hand in return. "What brings you to this stinking cesspool of a city traveler?"
"Attempting to stay low and make a little fortune on the side on my way through."
"Wow, what are the odds. I happen to be doing the same." Malo said proudly. "As you've probably noticed, I'm something of a collector but also a very talented salesman. Best in all the kingdoms."
The young man poked his head above the booth and surveyed that the coast was clear like a chipmunk groundhog before opening one part of his jacket like a doorway to reveal numerous glimmering trinkets and treasures acquired from all over the world. Bin was admittedly impressed by the assortment and sheer variety of items. He was even more impressed how such a skinny man was able to fit all of the stuff under his shirt let alone hide it.
"So, you steal trinkets and artifacts and sell them off for more than their worth. Not bad. Bin said.
"I LIBERATE trinkets and artifacts, he responded, sounding offended. And I could always use an extra hand. He closed his tunic and leaned in closer to whisper. "Care to liberate a few future goods together? It'll be worth your while I guarantee it. Any man as attentive as you is bound to make a good partner in crime."
Bin considered the tempting offer but sadly remembered that the larger the group, the less reward you get to keep for yourself. Besides, experience had taught him to not trust a man who had just tried robbing you within twenty seconds of meeting.
"Perhaps another time friend." Was Bin's remorse.
Malo shrugged in acceptance and smiled before putting his feet on the table and his arms resting behind his head to resume listening to the band, "Oh well your loss. We could have made a lot of money together friend."
"That we could have." He replied.
The two continued chatting for a few minutes onward until a slim man dressed in a tattered black cloak and muddy boots stepped through the doors to the silence of the guards. His face was obscured by shadow and his stoic calm demeanor was unchanged upon seeing the fire nation soldiers in the least. He then calmly looked around and walked right over to Bin and Malo without a second thought as the music and chatter of the soldiers resumed.
"May I have a seat?" The hooded man asked in a quiet silky voice. Everywhere else is taken.
Bin shrugged and gestured toward the seat across the two of them.
"By all means. Said Malo The more vagrants the merrier.
"My gratitude." The man bowed politely to both of them with a fist in his palm facing upward. That peculiar bit of etiquette struck Bin as very odd. The man silently entered the booth and slowly pulled back his black hood to reveal a handsome yet stern-faced man in his mid-20s. His long jet-black hair tied neatly in a topknot and together by a strand of faded red fabric. He had very angular features and a confident yet refined demeanor and way of holding himself that made Bin if anything a bit curious. He could tell nobility a mile away. After all, he robbed them quite often.
"What are you doing so far from the fire nation capital friend? Bin inquired closer.
The man's amber eyes widened, not in anger, but interest. "Pardon me?"
"You seem very well-mannered for someone with dirty cracked boots tied together with rope.
The man scowled and hid his boots further under the table as if ashamed at the revelation.
" I fail to see how that is of any concern to the two of you."
"Oh it isn't." Malo said. We're just strange strangers having a strange conversation in the presence of even stranger strangers.
"Stop saying, stranger." Grunted the man.
"No promises cheekbones."
"What did you call me!? The fire nation man spat. Feeling an insult to his honor as firebenders so often did, he stood and reached for his belt as if preparing to draw a hidden sword. Malo did the same towards his nun chucks beneath his belt. It looked as if a brawl was about to break out over in that little booth just secondes of meeting each other over the truly dumbest of insults.
Whoa, easy fellas!! Bin said. suddenly standing and pushing each of the men apart with his muscular arms before they set the entire tavern on fire. How about we just calm down and take it easy a bit? Ok? We don't want to cause trouble and make a scene. Especially with PRESENT company. He said eying the soldiers and tilting his head intensly so they would get the bloody message. "Right?"
Malo and the stranger followed Bin's eyes in the direction of the dozens upon dozens of fire nation soldiers laughing away at the table.
He made a good point.
All three slowly inched back down like gophers.
"Please accept my apology friend." Bin said with genuine sincerity after waiting a moment for everyone to cool off. "I was just curious since I don't see many wealthy fire nationals bother with the likes of us."
I'm not wealthy." The man replied staring down at his fists cupped together on the table for comfort. "Far from it I'm afraid."
Ah. Bin already knew the story. A wealthy man once. Lost it all through some unfortunate turn of events and wound up in the middle of nowhere as a result. Bin could empathize and had considered robbing him upon hearing his noble tone of speech, but now knowing what he did. He just couldn't bring himself to bother someone already struggling out of his own sense of personal honor. He swore to never rob families, refugees, or people even more down on their luck than he was. And he intended to keep that promise and then some.
Bin leaned closer cautiously. Trying to seem more friendly and get through to the man.
"I'm sorry, we got off on the wrong foot. But believe me. There's nothing wrong with admitting you face some financial hardships. It's nothing to be ashamed of. Trust me. We've all been there.
"Yeah me more than most." Grinned Malo.
The stranger waited before slowly nodding. As if a gesture of some thanks and genuine appreciation for the comment. More likely it was just out of not knowing how to respond to the sudden change of kindness. It was probably the first taste of it he had in years. It felt bitter and foreign.
"Please accept my sincere apology from one fire national to another. said Bin. And if I may, perhaps ask your name?
The man stared at him and sighed in defeated acceptance of the situation and his lot in life, struggling to let go of his pride. At least for the moment.
"Azzai." He said shaking Bin's hand reluctantly. "And you are."
"Bin, at your service. And this scrappy dirty little fella in need of a good washing is my new friend Malo.
Azzai scowled at Mallo only to be greeted with a wide squinty smirk of broken teeth.
"Pleasure." The dusty dirty man witted. Malo reached out handing his skinny sweaty arm for a handshake. Azai took it reluctantly with a grimace of forced manners and politeness before quickly letting go.
Bin couldn't help but smile as he noticed Azai then attempt to subtly wipe away the dirt and dust from Malo's unwashed hands on his cloak under the table not wishing to offend the scruffy young man who clearly had never discovered the word hygiene.
Well. Now that we've got the pleasantries out of the way. What brings you to these parts friend? Inquired Bin.
The main hesitated before responding.
"Redemption."
Malo and and Bin stared at one another, then back at the stranger genuinely intrigued like schoolgirls around a campfire as he began to explain his story.
"I am Azzai of the fire nation Sei'naka clan. I have been exiled by my lord for offense against his family."
"Jeez, what you do to piss them off so much? Chuckled Malo. Burn down his manor by sneezing?"
Azai grimaced and let out a lonely heavy sigh.
"Falling in love with the lord's daughter."
The three men were silent.
"Well, that will do it." Witted Malo.
"That. My friend is an understatement." Said Azzai, struggling to contain a painful chuckle at the sad yet happy memory. Especially when she was already promised to the fire lord's son Prince Azulon. I was but of her household guard and when the lord caught us embracing one another in the gardens he had us separated, me stripped of my wealth and exiled. Saying I could only return if I proved a great deed worthy of mercy in the eyes of the family I had dishonored so. That was four years ago. And I have not seen them since. Even my own family has disowned me.
Azzai took a breath and sat in uncomfortable silence for a moment before continuing his story.
Now I've been reduced to a common bounty hunter. Forced to hunt criminals just to survive. Murderers, army deserters, thieves. The lowest scum of the earth.
Say what? Coughed Malo choking on water.
Hunting Criminals you say? Thought Bin humorously if a bit nervously. Well, that little ironic nugget of revelation just made things very awkward indeed. Bin and Malo. Malo and Bin. The two criminals who had racked up quite the crime spree both cleared their throats with sweat running down their criminal foreheads while trying to continue the conversation as non cholent and not at all suspicious as humanly possible.
Emphasis on trying.
"So how are you liking the city so far?! Malo asked hastily, hoping to change the subject as quickly possible while he tugged at the tight collar of his shirt like it was strangling him.. What are some of your aspirations and hopes?! Surely you have some?!
"My hopes." Replied Azzai confused. Is to find someone worthy of capture.
Azaii glanced toward the open window dramatically, with the open breeze flowing in his hair. Bin and Malo just stared blank faced and confused.
"Somewhere out there is an elusive outlaw known throughout the world that has evaded capture and earned quite a reward. That will surely restore my wealth and at last, I shall be welcomed home with my honor restored. Azzai turned to face them. His face gleamed with pure dedication and the emotionless intensity of a dragon on the hunt.
"And nothing and no one will stand in my way."
Malo waited a few seconds before clearing his throat and speaking. Fiddling awkwardly with his nun chucks.
"And how's the hunt for the most elusive warrior in the world going?" He dared to ask.
"To be honest. Said Azai, simliarly fiddling with the hilt of his sword by his belt. "Not well. I have captured a few scoundrels and traitors to the fire nation but none worthy enough of high merit or recognition. But I have not given up hope. "
Azzai returned his gaze of longing toward the window.
"I know that somewhere out there. Is a warrior worthy of my skills and who will be my salvation at last in the eyes of my clan and my country."
While Malo may have been struggling not to snicker at the hunter's seriousness, Bin found that he admired the man and his dedication. He wished more people had that type of genuine integrity and sense of honor and decided to wish him the best of luck in his quest wherever it may lead him when they departed. Just as far as it was well away in the opposite direction of the two wanted criminals standing across from his clueless face with currently huge bounties on their heads they very well would lose if they were discovered. Bin was practically wishing; no BEGGING the waitress to come around and quickly change the subject before something came to light that should really stay buried.
He soon heard the patter of gentle footsteps…
And there she was. Right on time. Like a warm summers breeze come to save him again.
Oh you beautiful blessed person. He thought relieved. And indeed she was beautiful, with long black hair obscuring parts of her face with a green kitchen bandana tied tightly around her forehead to keep it in place. And as always she had a wonderous warm cup of steaming dragon's breath tea in hand and waiting. She always remembered his favorite.
"Thank you Kishe." He nodded in gratitude. "No seriously thanks."
She smiled and kept sparing the occasional glance at him as she then took down Azzai's and Malo's orders and gave them their drinks. He watched her depart and continue to hand out orders to the other patrons quickly yet skillfully with perfect balance as always. Bin felt a strange sense of longing in his heart and hated to see her go already. Counting the seconds until she returned. The two saw each other quite often and she was always so kind and polite but very rarely ever spoke or said much about herself. Bin could understand that feeling. From what little small talk they had gathered from each other after hours outside on the porch, Bin knew she was from the earth kingdom, had lived in the city for a few months, and was planning to save up as much as she could and get out. That he could understand. Life under the fire nation was hard. And he wished things were better. For all of them. Her most of all.
Bin then stood then stood tall in the booth raising his glass before his two friends to deliver some closing remarks. "To our futures gentlemen. And may the spirits bless us all with fortune and favor in our personal endeavors wherever they may lead us."
"Here, here! Smiled Malo. Not letting on that he had probably lost all shed of good favor and will with the spirits long ago but he wouldn't let it ruin the nice toast.
"….To the future." Muttered Azzai. Going along out of common courtesy. And to the fire nation. Long may she reign.
Bin noted that last little remark but didn't let it stop him. He may hate their country. But he didn't hate him.
The three men chinked their glasses together. Sealing their destiny forever.
Suddenly a loud crash resounded throughout the room over by the Fire Nation table. Bin's heart stopped. Something had gone horribly wrong.
Kishe was on the floor covered in noodles and ale. And the Fire Nation soldiers were actually laughing. They dared to laugh at her? Bin looked down to see that one of the men, the more portly fat one had intentionally put his leg out to trip her to amuse his friends.
"See? I told you she wasn't that good at balancing that much food!! He roared with laughter. Everyone has their bad days. Even miss fancy footwork there!"
Bin felt a fury begin to rise as he saw Kisha slip and fall back down to the mocking laughter of the soldiers and the feared silence of the other patrons. His teeth ground like granite in growing rage as the soldiers continued to mock his friend for just trying to do her job. No one would dare come to her help out of fear of messing with the soldiers.
But Bin wasn't afraid.
Without a word, he calmly stood with glass in hand. Walked over to the table where dozens of Fire Nation soldiers were sitting….
And splashed his drink right on the back of the soldier's head.
A silence infected the tavern. The band stopped playing. No one moved. The earth itself seemed to stand still frozen in time and place.
Bin then knelt to the ground and helped Kishe to her feet as the soldier, now drenched in Bin's favorite wonderful tea dripping down his hair, slowly turned to face him enraged.
"Apologize to her." Bin ordered as if he had the voice and presence of a king.
The drenched soldier's comrades slowly pushed back their stools with a loud screeching moan to scrape against the old wood floor. Reaching for their weapons and with flames in their hands they started to circle Bin and the waitress hiding behind him from all sides.
"Bin what are you doing?! She whispered behind him franticly. "Clutching tightly to the back of his shirt hoping for him to back down. "Don't get involved. It was just a silly prank. I've survived worse. Much worse believe me."
He didn't say anything. he didn't look away. Still standing his ground, he stood in place and didn't run. Not even as the fat and his friends soldier slowly stalked closer with heavy footsteps to tower before him.
"I'm still waiting." Bin demanded.
The furious soldier wiped away the tea from his face before igniting a handheld flame in his palm and taking a step forward just as bin did the same.
"NO!! Screamed the bartender. No bending in here. Take it outside! Please!"
The soldier halted in place and afforded a brief look around. Probably realizing he would bring the whole building down if he used fire in such a confined wooden space. He then gave an exceptionally ugly smile as a wonderfull thought formed in his head, as if thinking of a funny joke only he found amusing.
"Very well…." He grinned as he put out the fire in his hand. I have an idea of how we can settle this like civilized people." He said looking at Bin dead in the eye inches away from each other's faces. Bin grinned with all the joy in the world. For he knew what the ogre of a man was about to ask.
"Agni kai." Muttered the soldier. "To the death."
A loud collective gasp went throughout the tavern followed by hushed murmuring. Bin quickly glanced behind to see Kishe, staring at him as if begging him to back down. This was life or death now. And any sane person could still walk away.
But Bin was far from sane. And more importantly…"
No one insulted his favorite server and got away with it.
"I accept" Bin said without a shred of hesitation. Locking his furious eyes with the man he was about to fight for the entire world to see. Bin could feel the tension and anger between them rising like a torrent that would explode at any moment. Neither wanted to back out now. A few of the fat soldiers' concerned friends tried to talk him out of it though. With one taking him aside away from Bin and muttering. "Bazan you've had a lot to drink, are you sure you want to do this?
Bin Certainly did. Oh By the spirits above he did.
Bazan shoved his worried comrade angrily aside and refocused all his attention back on the bin. "Outside." He growled. "Now."
"Ready when you are fatso." Was Bin's rather eloquent remark.
Bazan clenched his fists tighlty enough that they were glowing red hot and trailing smoke as he hastily shoved past with his challenger following closely at his heels. He had murder on his mind and nothing else. And that was just what Bin wanted.
Agni Kai. Oh, bless you, stupid drunken moron! Now bin Didn't have to hold back in the slightest. Attacking a fire nation soldier in broad daylight would normally be suicide. But now that he had challenged him to an Agni kai in front of all the other soldiers and patrons as witnesses, Bin had total amnesty in the eyes of the law. According to Fire Nation tradition, an Agni kai was used for settling disputes through lethal force in the form of a duel. And by agreeing to Bins' proposal in his current inebriated state, this idiot had just signed his own death warrant. And bin would make good use of this by humiliating him for all to see and by ridding the world of one more wretched fire nation soldier. And all in total legality.
Word spread quickly of the duel in the next ten minutes. People gossiping and kids shouting to their friends. "Did you hear?! There's going to be a fight! Soon enough, a large crowd of ages young and old had gathered in a circle outside the tavern in the muddy streets. All waiting to see the two firebenders duel to the death. But at a respectable distance of course. No one in their right mind would stand right next to an Agni Kai in progress. But they couldn't turn away either.
Bin stood at one end of the makeshift dueling stage, feeling the dirt and water beneath his feet as he removed his tunic to reveal his muscled bulky form glistening in the sun. Bazan did the same. Bin saw that despite being more rounded, and a bit inebriated he was still a fit enough fire nation soldier and a formidable one he imagined. Bin would not go easy on him. He wanted everyone to see this. Bin. looked to the sidelines to see Azzai, Malo, and Kishe. Standing by the entrance of the tavern behind the wooden railing as worried onlookers not knowing where the wind would be blowing in this fight. Don't worry guys. He promised to himself. I won't die here. But a shred of fear swept through him. Like it would be the last time he saw them.
He batted these thoughts away and turned back to face his opponent with his full attention. A hush fell over the excited crowd as both firebenders widened their stances and raised their open palms toward each other with the intent of delivering death. Waiting for the other to make the first move. Bin's lungs slowly began to fill and exhale as he felt his inner fire grow and its energy move towards his limbs like coiling vines. He circled Bazan, a bit wobbly yet still able to stand and fight. People pushed and squirmed for a better view. A few parents even raised their children on their shoulders to get a better view of the bloodshed. It wasn't often you got to see an Agni Kai after all."
The town center clock suddenly rang.
And the duel began.
Bazan suddenly spun and kicked the air in an arch, unleashing an unrelenting blast of unfocused but overwhelming fire. Bin was taken aback by how fast the man could move but kept his focus. He clapped his palms together to split the fire and let it pass harmlessly beside and behind him before moving forward to release a series of quick jabs of flame to keep the man on his toes. The heat from the flames causing sweat to glisten off his bare skin that just one wrong move away from being burned to a searing blackened crisp.
The two struck back and forth defecting and blocking carefully. Bin bided his time on the defensive as Bazan screamed and threw blast after blast after blast without restraint. He was deadly and unrelenting. Putting all his rage and anger into every strand of flame. More Sweat was beginning to run down Bin's forehead as the heat between the two enemies grew hotter and hotter by the minute. They were both growing tired. And bin would have to make a move at some point. He couldn't stay on the defensive forever.
The two men stood gasping for breath as fire evaporated into the air between them to the cheers of the crowd. "More! More!" they shouted. Give him a left! A left!!
Had enough?! Bin shouted across as he smothered the fires around him. This is the best you have!!? I've faced snail turtles that fight faster than you!
OH I'LL SHOW YOU THE BEST I HAVE STREET RAT!!" Roared Bazan readying a wide stance that was easy to telegraph. Anyone with a brain could see what this idiot was gonna do as last ditch effort to win this duel.
Bazan grinned as he began circling his arms and fingers inward like knives as the crackle of blue electricity began to grow and trail along their paths. The crowd screamed and took a massive step backward as the cold blue light flickered on all their enthralled faces.
Bin stayed calm, however. For just before the man directed the current through his fingers directly at him…..
Bin simply raised an eyebrow and kicked a puddle of muddy water between them at Bazan. Dousing and electrocuting his opponent with a scream and crackling sparks that set the whole world in an intense blue blinding light.
As the smoke cleared and the crowd finished rubbing their eyes dazed. Bazan still stood there in the center of the street stunned and jaw open. His hair standing on end and smoldering. He wavered back and forth for a second before falling flat on his face with a loud splash for the amusement of whole town to see in the mud.
Bin calmly approached and turned over the defeated man to give him a good few slaps on the face to see that he was still conscious and breathing. He wasn't and looked to be dead. But Bin wasn't done with him yet. He still wanted that apology after all. And he would get it even if he had to drag him back to the land of living personally.
Bin calmly placed a hand on the man's chest and sent a sudden jolt of electricity through his body restarting his heart. Bazan gasped back to life stunned and relieved at being pulled from the brink of death, only to then have the rude awakening of his throat pinned under Bin's foot with a flame held to his face as a final warning to stay down and listen to every word he said as if the fire lord himself was saying it so he wouldn't have to kill him a second time.
I'm still waiting." Bin repeated one last time, inching the flame closer and closer. "Apologize. Or do I have to bring you back again?
Bazan began to cry in front of his fellow soldiers terrified. None intervened and looked away. Finally, realizing he was on his own, he relented.
"Alright….I'm sorry. He gulped and panted, still in shock from the ordeal.
Louder!! So everyone can hear!! Bin thundered causing the flame to expand and burst momentarily in his hand with a roar.
I'm sorry I wasn't...He stuttered.
"Not to me. TO HER!!!!" Bin gripped Bazan's chin and snapped it towards the railings to see the woman he had humiliated so cruelly. She stood and watched not knowing what to make of this public display done in her name.
"I'm sorry If I offended you miss. The once big and intimidating soldier said now Teary-eyed and bawling like a baby for his life. "We was just having a laugh is all."
"Well, she's having one at you." Was Bin's final remark. Remember that the next time you try to do what you did." Everyone else is afraid of you guys...
But I'm not."
Bin barely managed to pull himself away, released his chokehold grip on the man, leaving him with the memory of being humiliated and gasping for breath in the dirt. The victor walked away to the deafening cheers and jubilation of the Earth Kingdom citizens hailing him as a man who stood up for them even if he wasn't from their homeland. he still did the right thing and they admired and respected him for it. The Fire Nation soldiers rushing to their defeated comrade's side however did not have as much cause for celebration.
As they struggled to help their friend stand Bazan felt a wave of shame and embarrassment flood over him as he heard stifled laughter from the crowd and even some of the soldiers snickering at his frizzled hair and scorched appearance. Especially the singed eyebrows which looked pathetic. But what hurt most wasn't the burns or the shock. It was his wounded pride. And what set him on edge the most was the sight of the insignificant waitress he had abused as was his right now smiling smugly at her champion walking up toward her to laugh at his defeat together. Partners working together on his ultimate humiliation. That was the last straw...
And without thinking.
He struck at Bin with everything he had left hoping it would be enough.
Just as Bin was about to ask if kishe was alright he suddenly felt a strange agonizing singe of pain in the back of his right calf. Bazan had swept at the floor, sending a scythe of fire right at his legs while his back was turned. That was the most dishonorable act a defeated opponent could possibly afflict upon themselves but Bazan didn't seem to care anymore. He just wanted him dead and for his precious little girlfriend to see.
Bin fell back to the ground in pain, smelling the scent of his own burning flesh sizzling beneath him. Bazan pounced in full fury as his comrades finally finding their courage rushed to aid in pinning Bin's limbs down from on all sides.
BOOO!!! Screamed the crowd. DISHONORABLE!!!! They chanted in anger as they began throwing rocks at the soldiers now putting their full armored weight atop Bin.
"Push them back and keep them there!!! Snapped Bazan to his men. KILL THEM IF YOU HAVE TO!!! Every single one obeyed without question and began pushing and sending flame up in the air to scare the restless crowd back before there was a mob on their hands. A few were even struck down screaming and engulfed as they tried to run. Their families and loved ones desperately trying to smother the flames with blankets and clothing. Now that no one could stop or judge him. Bazan eagerly turned his full attention back down towards the man who had humiliated him now wonderfully trapped beneath him to do with as he pleased. And without a shred of mercy began beating him within an inch of his life. He would restore his honor by any means necessary. He would make an example of what happened when you challenged a fire nation soldier. One that would never be forgotten in this dung heap of a city.
The whole world seemed to move in slow motion as Bin tried to move and fight back. He could taste the metal in the blood filling inside his mouth. His vision was becoming foggy. His teeth were knocked out one by one. He was growing numb and faded to the pain as the heavy blows came down again and again striking hard across his face. He looked to Azzai and Malo on the sidelines, hoping, no begging for them to help but each man hesitated to move out of fear of messing with the soldiers. There were just so many of them. And they wouldn't risk their own lives having just met no matter how much they enjoyed each other's company. He understood that in some sense. But to his absolute horror most of all....
Kishe was gone. She had abandoned him.
That hurt him most of all.
No...he muttered at the realization that she was gone.
"You die now scum." Snarled Bazan gasping excitedly for breath and wiping away the blood from his fists. The victorious firebender summoned a dagger of fire and brought it down with all his might with both hands right for Bin's heart to deliver the death blow.
Bin closed his eyes and braced for the end. No one he thought was coming to save him.
And there she was. Like a warm summer breeze come to save him again.
Some invisible force slammed into Bazan and the soldiers, knocking them off Bin and tossing them towards the ground far away from him with wind rustling their hair, scattering leaves and twigs in every direction and ally of the cramped narrow street.
Bin turned to look above. And couldn't believe his eyes.
His mouth gaped open at seeing Kishe standing behind him. Her arms raised with sweat running down her now bare forehead violently exposed from the wind blowing away her bandana to reveal a light blue arrow for all to see.
The waitress.
Had just airbent….