In the hushed gloom of night, a mother's whispered lullabies to her crying child stirred Satchiko from the depths of her nightmare. Grateful for the interruption, she reluctantly surfaced from the haunting memory of Suan Ming's demise, with her form being skewered by a merciless arrow at Hao Jing. No respite came, even in sleep, from the relentless specter of that day.
Emerald eyes blinked open, greeted by the waning moon's gentle descent beyond the shadowy hills. Rest came sparingly for Satchiko, nestled within the embrace of a Sky Bison's saddle, its unforgiving wooden surface a reminder of the harsh reality they traversed.
Beneath the cloak of darkness, a vast caravan of weary refugees wound its way through the sprawling plains of desert grass. Here, the land bore witness to the scars of conflict, ancient earth coins and shattered remnants of war machines strewn amidst the endless expanse. Xiao Zhong and Jian Xin, consumed by their ruthless pursuit of dominance, had squandered countless lives and resources upon these fields of perpetual strife. Xue Di, the borderlands between their warring domains, had become naught but a bloody crucible, its soil soaked with the agony of countless souls. The sight of decaying bodies spread across long-forgotten battlefields served as a grim testament to the toll exacted upon those who called this land home. How else can a person explain the inexplicable, sporadic emergence of vibrant greenery amidst barren desolation?
Within the confines of the saddle, Satchiko's gaze swept across their makeshift sanctuary. Mayumi stood vigilant, her watchful eyes scanning the horizon for signs of impending danger. She is a lone sentinel amid a sea of weary souls. The Kheshig warriors, once fierce fighters, now lay incapacitated by sickness, leaving Ganbaatar to command but a scant handful of herdsmen.
At the far end of the saddle, Batu tended to his ailing parents. His wish to be perceived as a brave warrior is momentarily stripped away by the tender act of caring for their fevered brows. In that fragile moment, the facade of strength gave way to vulnerability, a poignant reminder that even the sturdiest of spirits bore cracks beneath their surface. Yet, amidst the turmoil, Sarangerel's steady hand guided their family's faithful Sky Bison, its once powerful body rendered sluggish, burdened by the weight of their collective hopes and fears.
As the creature's labored steps echoed the struggles of their journey, the nomads could only pray to the Eternal Sky that neither Xiao Zhong or Jian Xin has enough soldiers to intercept them. With flight denied them, their fate hung precariously in the balance, with the only solace being the promise of sanctuary within the impenetrable walls of Ba Sing Se.
Upon recollecting the two warring states in the region, Satchiko's thoughts turned to another occupant of the saddle. It is Liu Song, whose frail form bore the scars of numerous stab wounds inflicted in the heat of battle. Miraculously, he clung to life, shallow breaths being a testament to his tenacity amidst adversity.
"Sister, you should continue resting," Mayumi urged, concern etched in her features.
Satchiko offered a reassuring nod, acknowledging the concern for her well-being. With a gentle sigh, she raised her head above the saddle's rails. Aside from the endless sand, there is not much to marvel at.
Guided by the Khan's strategic vision, their caravan charted a course along a desiccated riverbed, a path shrouded in uncertainty. Unfamiliar with the terrain, they relied upon scant information gleaned from passing merchants, who offered generous guidance in exchange for meager coins. So far, fortune smiled upon them, for encounters with soldiers of Jian Xin or Xiao Zhong had been mercifully absent.
Yet, the throngs of refugees that shadowed their every step posed a different sort of peril. Drawn from all walks of life, these weary souls fled the ravages of war and destitution, their numbers swelling after each skirmish. Among them were whispers of a Xiao Zhong scholar granted audience with the Khan, a clandestine meeting whose purpose remained veiled in secrecy. Though they posed no immediate threat, their presence added weight to an already burdened journey, their gaunt frames a haunting reminder of the toll exacted by conflict. Some are seen crawling through the sands, and some will remain in this dessert forever.
Satchiko's gaze drifted to a mother, her efforts to soothe a wailing infant is a warming sight amidst the chaos. Despite their plight, it was a scene that stirred something deep within the Kyoshi Warrior, a resolve to protect the fragile threads of hope against the world's relentless cruelty. For there are truths worth defending, even if it meant sacrificing her own life in the process.
"There are so many of them," Satchiko remarked sadly, her gaze sweeping over the endless expanse of displaced people forced to flee their homes.
Turning back to the confines of the saddle, she found herself startled as Liu Song suddenly sat up, rousing from his rest. Batu instinctively reached for his dagger, but Mayumi's swift intervention forestalled any rash action.
"W-where am I?" Liu Song's voice trembled with confusion and fatigue. "Where are those Xiao Zhong dogs?"
Tension coiled within the confines of the saddle at his incendiary words. Liu Song surveyed the sea of dark green tunics adorning the throngs of refugees surrounding the caravan, his initial hostility giving way to realization, soon loosening that firm grip on the saddle's rail.
"You don't seek vengeance?" Mayumi's inquiry hung in the air, laden with cautious curiosity.
"I do," Liu Song's reply was tinged with bitter resolve, though he struggled to contain the pain that threatened to overwhelm him. "More than anything."
Despite the absence of armored soldiers among the ranks of the refugees, Liu Song's selective approach to vengeance gave pause to those within the saddle. It is the masses that always must bear the brunt of the consequences committed by the few.
"These people are not responsible for the sacking of Xiang Qiu," Liu Song's tone dripped with resentment, his gaze darkening with remembered anguish.
The trio exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the depths of suffering wrought by the protracted conflict between Jian Xin and Xiao Zhong. Satchiko's curiosity, however, remained unabated.
"And who is responsible?" she ventured, despite Mayumi's discreet warning against prying into a stranger's grief.
"An Lushan," the Jianxinese said.
Liu Song's fist clenched at the mere mention of the name, his voice thick with suppressed rage as he recounted the atrocities committed under the command of the warlord, the ruler of Xiao Zhong.
"He is the one who ordered the pillaging of many cities," Liu Song's words seethed with righteous indignation. "My friends and I lost all our families to their cruelty."
Satchiko winced at the raw anguish in his voice, a stark reminder of the human cost exacted by the savagery of war.
"You are safe now," Mayumi's gentle reassurance cut through the palpable tension. "We are bound for Ba Sing Se, where perhaps you may find solace amidst its sheltering walls, like so many others seeking refuge."
Liu Song lifted his gaze beyond the seemingly endless expanse of nightly sands, his eyes devoid of the optimism that fueled so many others among the fleeing citizens. Death had danced with him too many times for false hope to take root. Unlike those seeking to rebuild their shattered lives beyond the grand bastions of Ba Sing Se, his path was clear, to fulfill the solemn vows he had sworn.
"I can't just leave," Liu Song's voice carried a steely resolve. "Not without avenging my family and friends! I owe it to my oath brothers, to give them the proper burial they deserve. The worst part is that I have to watch them die by my side."
His words hinted at the fallen Jian Xin soldiers, those crushed beneath the weight of the same giant earth coin that had nearly claimed his own life. But Mayumi swiftly interjected, cautioning against rash actions driven by raw emotion. She implored Liu Song to consider the consequences of returning to the battlefield in his current state. It would be a journey fraught with peril, either his wounds tear back open, or being ambushed by Xiao Zhong soldiers cleaning the battlefields.
"Your friends would want you to live," Mayumi's conveyed tactically. "I doubt they will forgive you for recklessly returning there."
"But I can't let this feud go unresolved!" Liu Song remained unshaken, his determination to avenge his loved ones burning bright. "My people are fighting desperately to win this war! I must regroup with them, to stand alongside them in battle."
A heavy silence settled over the occupants of the saddle, their expressions reflecting the grim reality of the bloodshed that had stained the land of Xue Di. Few shared Liu Song's fervor for retribution, having borne witness to the horrors unleashed in the light of day. To entertain the notion of returning to such a cursed place seemed folly to them all.
Before Satchiko could offer an alternative course of action, Batu interjected with blunt honesty.
"If you go alone, you will die," the boy's words cut through the silence like a knife. "I have lost people too. But what good is revenge if you aren't alive to see it?"
In the presence of a youthful wanderer, whose demeanor often betrays his tender years, there exists a surprising depth of experience in those words. Bereft of his birth parents at an impressionable age, Batu has been forged by the unforgiving crucible of loss and adversity. Satchiko, observing the juxtaposition of his innocence and worldly wisdom, finds herself both impressed by the poignant simplicity. But she is also concerned for the burden he carries. It is evident that within the diminutive figure of this boy lies a simmering desire for retribution, particularly directed towards the nefarious Acolytes of San Bao, the same zealots who sought to reduce the proud city of Hao Jing to ashes.
Liu Song is compelled to acknowledge the unvarnished truth in the boy's words. The imperative of avenging his parents cannot be disregarded. Rooted deep within the Earth Kingdom's venerable teachings is the principle of filial piety, an obligation that demands redress for the wrongs inflicted upon one's kin. To let the perpetrators of such heinous acts go unpunished would render him remiss in his duties as a son.
"I understand your yearning for justice, but how can you hope to confront those who have wrought such devastation upon you and your people?" Mayumi probes gently, her concern palpable as she addresses Liu Song, who finds himself at an impasse. "Rejoining Jian Xin's forces may not be the wisest course of action, especially when the odds of falling to a stray arrow are greater than facing your adversaries."
With a heavy sigh, Liu Song closes his eyes, enveloped in a pall of despair. In this moment of anguish, he voices lament, the weight of his sorrow pressing heavily, rendering the plight seemingly insurmountable.
"So many in Jian Xin, yet so few capable leaders to guide us to victory!" he bemoans, voice tinging with sorrow at the ineptitude of his superiors. "Too many of my comrades have perished needlessly. How can I go on in the face of such loss?"
Everyone else is unable to offer solace in the face of such profound suffering. The pain of losing loved ones to the ravages of war leaves an indelible mark, a wound that refuses to heal. And yet, to compound this anguish is the elusive nature of vengeance, a path fraught with obstacles and pitfalls. Its attainment rendered all the more uncertain by Liu Song's status as a non-bender, pitted against adversaries who wield power over the vast Xiao Zhong army.
"Perhaps you need not walk this path alone," interjected a voice near the head of the Sky Bison. Sarangeral, who has been silently observing, chooses this moment to enter the discussion. "If you find yourself lacking in strength, then strive to grow stronger. And if the pursuit of justice seems beyond your grasp, seek allies who share your cause."
In a world rife with chaos and conflict, opportunities abound amidst the turmoil. It is not uncommon for individuals of talent and determination to forge new allegiances, serving in capacities far removed from their homelands. If seasoned warriors can pledge their swords to new masters, then surely a man who has suffered the loss of his entire family can find a place among them.
"Ba Sing Se presents a good option," Sarangerel suggested. "Though you may not be versed in scholarly pursuits, your skills are not without value."
Indeed, seasoned soldiers can often find employment in another state on the now dissolved Earth Kingdom. Yet, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. Though Liu Song may wield a spear with proficiency, his injuries may well diminish his prospects for finding a new purpose. And yet, Sarangerel hints at the possibility of leveraging the strength of others in pursuit of vengeance. While Ba Sing Se may presently remain neutral in the conflict between Xiao Zhong and Jian Xin, the shifting tides of war may yet alter its stance. Thus, the fulfillment of Liu Song's filial duty need not rest solely upon his shoulders.
"Assuming, of course, that Ba Sing Se does not align itself against your homeland," Sarangerel cautioned.
It is a sobering reminder of the capricious nature of politics and power. Satchiko listens intently, her thoughts drifting to the stories spun by traders who occasionally visit their home island. Tales of wars waged, and alliances shattered upon the mainland. In a world where borders blur and loyalties shift like sand, Liu Song's path forward would be a turbulent path at best, or a futile end at worst.
"Perhaps there is one person who may help me," Liu Song cautiously asserted. "Have you heard about the Judge of Honghai?"
Their reactions varied as they cast glances in his direction, each responding based on their own backgrounds.
"Who?" Satchiko inquired. Both sisters had spent their lives on the island, sheltered from much of the outside world's news. Her gaze shifted to Batu, who acknowledged having heard of this individual but deferred the explanation to those living closer to this region.
"He is the Ba Sing Se general renowned for his role in the Battle of Honghai," Liu Song began, assuming the air of a storyteller eager to recount a legendary folk tale. "That grand battle took place many years ago. I was but fifteen at the time."
Mayumi attempted to estimate the year of the battle. Judging from Liu Song's weathered appearance, he likely stood in his early thirties now, suggesting the events transpired at least a decade ago. They allowed him to proceed, though they understood his absence from the actual events might color his retelling with a hint of unreliability.
"The pirate lord Anguta was a bloodthirsty cutthroat who terrorized the Mo Ce sea," Liu Song continued. "He plundered numerous coastal cities, killing the people and enslaving anyone they capture. It's said he took pleasure in drowning those who dared to defy him, often by severing their fingers. Yet, his strength was unmatched. Any naval forces sent by the mainland or the Northern Water Tribe to confront him is met with defeat. Even the Fire Nation was forced into retreat after the death of their most talented admiral. Anguta seemed invincible, his raids laying waste to all of Jian Xin's ports. However, his insatiable greed ultimately proved to be his downfall." Liu Song paused, a fit of coughing interrupting his narrative. Satchiko offered him a cup of water, which he gratefully accepted before continuing. "He sought a prize that would secure his place as one of history's most infamous pirates, perhaps even surpassing Tagaka herself."
"What... what prize was that?" Satchiko hesitantly inquired, sensing the weight in Liu Song's voice.
It took a moment for Liu Song to compose himself, the memory of his own losses during the horrific sacking of Xiang Qiu flooding back to him.
"That prize... would have been the plundering of the Western Air Temple," Liu Song confessed with a pained expression. "He sailed his mighty fleet, openly daring anyone to defy him. It seemed he sought to instill fear in the hearts of all."
The two Kyoshi Warriors grew apprehensive, understanding the gravity of the situation had that nefarious pirate lord succeeded. The Western Air Temple stood as one of the four sacred monasteries of the monks, housing invaluable relics coveted by pirates. Yet, even more horrifying would have been the fate awaiting the nuns at the hands of those ruthless seafaring marauders. Such an abhorrent act would undoubtedly scar the annals of history with a tragedy echoing through the ages.
"And then what happened?" Satchiko inquired eagerly, seeking reassurance amidst the tale of peril. Though aware of the ultimate victory in the Battle of Honghai, there is solace in hearing of an uneventful aftermath. Fortunately, Liu Song reassured them that none of the nuns had been harmed, and the marauding corsairs had never come close to the sanctuary of the temple. Such details, however, are only hearsay, passed down among the common folk.
"Anguta was indeed bold, and his pirates are all formidable," Liu Song continued with a somber tone, mindful of his injuries. "Rumors spoke of his Waterbenders, just two of them can defeat sea serpents with ease, and tales whispered of his fleet wielding the very ocean itself as a weapon. I even heard that his fleet could create massive tidal waves that can be as high as the some of the tallest mountains in the Earth Kingdom. With such power at his command, he seemed invincible on the ocean."
Satchiko recalled the encounter with the Waterbender named Shui, who had attempted to abduct her and Mayumi earlier in their journey. Water, so serene and tranquil, could be wielded as a weapon of devastation in the hands of skilled practitioners. Thoughts also turned to the Unagi near their island home. If such a formidable creature can be subdued by just two of Anguta's corsairs, what chance did ordinary folk stand against the ambitions of such a plunderer?
"But one man dared to challenge him. Before the battle, none knew his name. Indeed, no one truly knows it to this day. Yet, we call him the Judge of Honghai." Liu Song recounted with a voice tinged with reverence. "Sailing from Ba Sing Se with a force vastly outnumbered, this battle unfolded on the sands outside the Western Air Temple. It was a glorious victory. Every last one of Anguta's cutthroats perished, including the pirate warlord himself. Legend has it that the Judge of Honghai slew him in single combat, thus safeguarding the sanctity of the monastery."
Liu Song's tale concluded, leaving a lingering sense of satisfaction amidst the somber atmosphere. Mayumi sensed Satchiko finding comfort in the story's resolution, despite its distance from their current reality. Recognizing that Liu Song hadn't been present at the Battle of Honghai, they understood his account as more akin to a folk tale, shaped and embellished through retelling. This story is also reeked with sparseness on the actual battle, as noted by how hasty Liu Song arrived at the tale's conclusion. Perhaps only the Judge of Honghai himself would be able to provide a more concise retelling, assuming they even have the valid reasons and chance to meet him.
Satchiko's gaze shifted to Mayumi, who took out a book from her backpack, one of the many texts in their father's collection. It has always been perplexing that the two sisters have contrasting traits, with the elder finding solace in the world of literature and refined pursuits.
"I see you're turning to reading even now, big sis," Satchiko remarked.
"I know it's not the most opportune moment," Mayumi replied. "But do you recall the wooden carving you made back in the state of Yi?"
Satchiko nodded, intrigued by her sister's sudden mention of the carving. Mayumi opened the book, flipping to a page that bore a striking resemblance to the design of Satchiko's creation. It is a heavily armored figure wielding a variant of the glaive deemed by many as the heaviest in the world, yet too impractical and cumbersome for real combat.
In the state of Yi, Mayumi had chosen this design for Satchiko, who wish to create a token of gratitude for the old farmer's hospitality. Due to its unfamiliar armor pattern and seemingly fantastical style, it was initially believed to depict a deity rather than a real person.
Mayumi pointed to the words describing the figure on the page, suggesting it could be the Judge of Honghai.
"Big sis, you know I can't read," Satchiko gently reminded her, prompting Mayumi to read aloud. The words stated, 'General who pacified the Western Pirates'. Batu found the title fanciful, likely concocted by scholarly minds to mythologize the military hero. Though it may have sounded grand in the language of the gentry, its true origins remained dubious.
"Do you think it's him?" Mayumi asked Liu Song, who hesitated to confirm the book's authenticity.
"The weapon depicted is certainly massive," the Jianxinese observed. "Just look at that glaive, the blade part itself is likely longer than my arm!"
Mayumi also noted the unusual size of the polearm depicted. Compared to the smaller naginata wielded by other Kyoshi Warriors, it is a formidable weapon indeed. Yet, she harbored doubts, believing the real Judge of Honghai wouldn't opt for something so cumbersome. It's possible that the glaive he wielded is just the same size as anyone else but was embellished by scholars to appear more imposing.
"I thought these kinds of weapons were mostly ceremonial," Mayumi remarked. "Didn't they mainly appear in statues?"
Indeed, the actual use of glaives found in the Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation are typically smaller and lighter than those depicted in literature. Mighty folk heroes or statues of renowned military figures were often associated with the more imposing variants. However, using the heaviest version of such a polearm in combat was impractical due to its weight and sluggishness.
"Perhaps he doesn't intend to wield after he dies," Batu jested. "Those sedentary people love to depict statues with it. But if I saw someone charging at me with a weapon that large, I'd run."
In hindsight, even the most heavily armored adversary would struggle to survive a direct strike from such a colossal polearm. It was simply beyond the limits of human capability to use the heaviest version of the glaive effectively, at least within the constraints of mortal flesh.
"Hold on, big sis," Satchiko noted. "There are more words underneath the picture."
Satchiko's observation drew Mayumi's attention back to the book.
Mayumi pronounced the words, somewhat perplexed by the cryptic and superstitious tone of the writing.
On the shores of Honghai, he wielded the gift bestowed by the heavens, distinguishing between right and wrong. His judgment stained the sand and water, pleasing some spirits while displeasing some mortals.
"Some people do love to be vague, don't they?" Mayumi sighed, recalling encounters with individuals who favored cryptic messages in order to be perceived as wise and timeless, much like the old hag they encountered back at Hao Jing.
As Liu Song expressed his desire to seek out the Judge of Honghai as a mentor, hoping to gain the strength and knowledge needed to avenge his family, the unlikelihood of such a goal becoming reality loomed over the conversation. As a lowly Jianxinese without prominent background or connections, his aspirations seemed far-fetched.
"So, why are you all headed to Ba Sing Se?" Liu Song finally inquired, curious about their motivations. "Are you escaping the war too?"
While refugees from across the continent sought solace in the peace of Ba Sing Se, Batu clarified that their journey was not an attempt to permanently settle there. While it was common for merchants to travel to the grand city, Satchiko's reasons left the injured Jianxinese utterly astonished.
"Invited to Ba Sing Se University?" Liu Song exclaimed in disbelief. "I thought only the finest students can even hope to receive scholarships to such prestigious institutions."
"I don't exactly look like a scholar, do I?" Satchiko responded with self-awareness. "But my parents see it as a valuable opportunity, especially since Earthbending is part of the curriculum. Plus, the letter mentioned studying under Earth Sages. But I'm mostly just want to focus on mastering Earthbending."
This revelation further puzzled the seasoned soldier, questioning the necessity of traveling to the city solely to learn a bending art. Mayumi clarified that such an opportunity was too significant to overlook. It isn't every day that a renowned institution offers a free scholarship to someone from rural lands.
"My sister deserves nothing but the best," Mayumi asserted, her tone bordering on forceful. "Not only will she master Earthbending, but I can also envision her achieving greatness as a scholar. Perhaps she'll even study hard enough to become an Earth Sage herself."
Satchiko tensed at her sister's words. Like their mother, it seems Mayumi also harbors high expectations. However, there is a glaring issue. While Satchiko had diligently trained in the ways of the metal fans from a young age, her academic pursuits, particularly in Earthbending, had been neglected. Often, she would slip away from class to watch the older Kyoshi Warriors train in the woods, yearning for the day when she could join their ranks and protect the village.
"I'll do my best," Satchiko replied with a heavy tone, the daunting prospect of mastering literacy adding to her challenges. It would be a source of immense embarrassment if she is expected to demonstrate proficient literacy skills.
"Well, it's commendable that you're seizing this opportunity," Liu Song praised. "Many children across the lands can't even dream of affording a teacher. Look at me, I still can't read without a scholar interpreting for me. But I'm still surprised they're allowing you to attend for free."
Though unintentional, Satchiko's confidence faltered further under Liu Song's well-meaning praise. Only Sarangerel's intervention provided a moment of reflection on the invitation they had received.
"Free might not be the appropriate term, sedentary soldier," the Kheshig woman interjected, her tone measured as she reined in their Sky Bison. Turning to Satchiko, she urged her to question the true nature of the arrangement. "Have you ever wondered why you received that invitation to Ba Sing Se University? You and your sister are both daughters of a village chief. So why is Earthbending deemed so crucial by the university in selecting its students?"
Even Mayumi found herself pondering the significance of the invitation. In the realm of Earth Kingdom education, achieving the status of an Earth Sage is the pinnacle of scholarly attainment, regardless of one's bending ability.
"Well, there's certainly a connection between bending and books," Batu offered, his naivety shining through as he voiced such thoughts. "Imagine if I am a student, I could paint people doing Earthbending and write about them too."
"But mastery of such skills isn't necessary for learning the basics," Sarangerel countered. "It depends on which aspect of bending you wish to pursue. The techniques used by our warriors differ from those practiced by temple monks."
Aside from techniques, even the doctrine and way of life differed so drastically. Though Batu's perspective may seem simplistic, it held some truth. It is an extension, a harness which represents the varied cultures and societal behaviors which defines the four distinct nations. Therefore, bending is intertwined with the works of scholarly professions. People write about bending, describing the dance between the person and the elements themselves. The nature of the elements inspired artworks and drove countless philosophical discourse. Even something as simple as a folk story have forged multiple layers of cultural development that have transcended for millennia.
Mayumi held her curved blade, admiring its craftsmanship. To many, it is just a weapon. But to her, it held far greater significance. Some Kyoshi Warriors even claimed that there are spirits dwelling inside these weapons, symbolizing the spirit of their founder's continuous guardianship over the island.
"Whatever lies ahead, I'm certain you'll handle it," Mayumi reassured, gently rubbing Satchiko's head. Though the latter sister felt anxious, she found some solace these comforting words.
Satchiko glanced across the expansive horizon as the sun's rays gradually illuminated the sky with shades of orange. However, the clearer view revealed the harrowing sight of impoverished refugees, their starved expressions now starkly visible without the cloak of darkness.
Yet, amidst the despair, a far more chilling scene unfolded before them. The caravan of nomads and refugees passed by a pile of skeletons next to a looted carriage. Satchiko recoiled with discomfort, appalled by the cruelty of the perpetrators. The absence of ostrich horse carcasses suggested the looters spared them due to their utility.
"There are countless bandit attacks across the continent, but not even the Judge of Honghai himself can be everywhere at once," Liu Song lamented with a heavy heart. Despite his rising prestige, the reach of this northern general didn't extend beyond Ba Sing Se. Rogue bands of cutthroats and highwaymen lay in wait to prey upon the defenseless, especially any refugees heading to the city.
Satchiko shut her eyes upon seeing the skeleton of a child with an arrow lodged in its ribcage. Mayumi comforted her, urging her to focus on anything but the grim scene outside.
"Stay calm, sister, stay calm," Mayumi counseled, her own concern shifting to the threat of ambushes along their route. Bandits would be easier to deal with than well-equipped soldiers seeking to disrupt their progress. Exposed in the open, they are vulnerable to attack.
As the sun's rays spread across the landscape, a massive shadow loomed over them. Even within the confines of the saddle, Satchiko can see the carcass of a fallen airship. It is a relic of a past battle between Xiao Zhong and Jian Xin. The sight of this 'flying ship' evoked memories of the legendary feat performed by the folk hero of their village, in which a Kyoshi Warrior managed to destroy multiple of such war machines in one fell swoop. That story is still instilling awe in Satchiko to this very day, which also partly concerned her.
In their backwater island, there is no noble lineage to boast of, no grand legacy to uphold. Unlike the renowned Kyoshi Warriors who had earned prominent renown during the Hundred Year War, Satchiko pondered whether her own actions could ever exalt their island's folk hero. For on their humble little island, there existed but one family whose lineage held any semblance of prestige. It is a lineage from which many of the island's most important figures had emerged.
From a young age, Satchiko and Mayumi were keenly aware of the weight of expectation placed upon them as daughters of Akahana, whose status as the current strongest Kyoshi Warrior definitely honors this prestigious lineage. They knew that the reputation of their family carried immense importance, and they felt the burden of upholding its honor resting heavily upon their shoulders.
As the caravan gradually passed the massive carcass, Satchiko is too afraid look outside, knowing that it must be an old battlefield with an expanse of corpses. Out of curiosity, Batu lifted his head above the saddle for curiosity. Just as the Kyoshi Warrior has deduced, he grimaced, but not for the reasons initially believed.
Suddenly, an arrow pierced Batu's head, eliciting cries of alarm from the group, especially from Sarangerel.
"Batu!" Sarangerel cried.
"I am fine!" the little boy replied while utterly frightened. He reassured them he was unharmed, prompting a collective sigh of relief. The arrow impaled his fur hat, if the metal tip has landed slightly lower, it would have been the skull that was punctured.
But their respite was short-lived as panic gripped the caravan. They heard nomad warriors preparing their bows. With the cover of night gone, they are completely exposed to danger.
"We're under attack!" shouted one of the nomads, sparking a frantic hastening of the caravan's pace. The Sky Bisons surged forward, while the refugees scrambled to keep up.
Liu Song sought the source of the attack, prompting Batu to retaliate with a shot toward the distant hill where soldiers lay in wait. Satchiko peeked over the saddle and spotted the ambushers, realizing the danger they faced.
"Of course it's an ambush from a hill," Mayumi grimly observed.
The Khan's bellow urged the caravan to flee, aiming to cross into Ba Sing Se's territory where their pursuers couldn't follow. Whether soldiers from Jian Xin or Xiao Zhong, both factions had reasons to halt their advance toward the city.
"You two!" Sarangerel commanded the Kyoshi Warriors. "Warn the Ba Sing Se soldiers ahead and tell them to stop our pursuers! The Sky Bisons are not fast enough!"
Satchiko and Mayumi sprang into action, understanding the urgency of the task. Though their motivations differed, they knew the importance of alerting the border guards to the imminent threat, ensuring the safety of the entire caravan without risking themselves unnecessarily.
...
"By whose command did you loose that arrow?" Li Zhu'er's voice sliced through the tension as he rode to the fore of his scouting unit, with a presence commanding attention like a storm on the horizon.
Accompanied by his steadfast second-in-command, the two mounted figures approached with an air of authority, causing soldiers to part like waves before a prow. Amidst the fray, an archer writhed in agony, his leg impaled by the very shaft he had released.
"General, there he is! It's Su Song!" The fervent cry came from Li Zhu'er's youthful subordinate, pointing toward the sprawling caravan of refugees, where a lone scholar sat atop one of the mammoth white beasts. What had been a stealthy advance now lay shattered by the impetuous action of the archer, jeopardizing the mission to apprehend the treacherous scholar and return him alive to the capital of Xiao Zhong.
From the rear of the hill, the remainder of Li Zhu'er's army advanced steadily. Seven thousand strong, their ranks bristled with bows and spears, chariots trailing in their wake.
"I expressly forbade any attack!" Li Zhu'er's voice echoed with stern rebuke as he addressed the scouts. "Transgressors shall face the full weight of military law!"
A heavy silence hung over the assembled soldiers. The archer, who had flouted orders, would soon face the lash for his disobedience. Though harsh, such discipline is indispensable for maintaining order within the ranks.
Yet, the solemnity was shattered by the thunderous clangor of metal machinery. Infantrymen scattered as a colossal humanoid contraption barreled through their midst, heedless of the havoc it wrought. In its path lay the fallen, including a hapless spearman crushed beneath its remorseless wheels. But within the confines of the metallic monstrosity, its pilot showed no remorse for the collateral damage left in its wake. Two ostrich horses are also killed, splintering a chariot before any battles can commence.
"Enough!" Li Zhu'er's voice boomed with indignation, his patience worn thin by this brazen display of disrespect. His trusted subordinate moved to assuage his mounting fury. "Where is the discipline? A man who recklessly spills the blood of his allies has no place among our ranks!"
Yet, the general knew he could not punish this senseless troublemaker like the others in his ranks. Laughter, cold and eerie, reverberated from behind the circular glass of the metal war machine. Even the most battle-hardened men faltered the array of decapitated heads suspended around the glass, blood dripping onto the metal exterior. The madman encased in this impenetrable shell seemed exhilarated by the slaughter of defenseless women and children.
"An Qing'en, explain yourself!" General Li Zhu'er demanded, his voice a blend of authority and exasperation. He was not seeking an excuse for the indiscriminate pillaging of nameless border villages. Considering the myriad acts of insubordination in the past, it was believed that this maniac was somehow behind the archer's uncoordinated shooting.
Predictably, the bold figure within the giant metal construct showed little remorse when detailing his reward for anyone who could capture the escaping engineer. Though only the nephew of the Xiao Zhong governor, the intricacies of patrimonial succession meant rulership of a state were not always passed to the eldest son. Proving oneself a more worthy heir and successor to the clan's territory holdings could be accomplished through various means, be it showing courage in battle or exhibiting capable governance, the path to favor often wound through the current governor's heart.
"An army without discipline cannot hope to win the war," Li Zhu'er cautioned, his words laden with gravitas. "If we are to ever hope to vanquish Jian Xin, our soldiers must function with meticulous unity, much like the daily operations of a prosperous state."
"I suggest you do not overexert yourself, old man," An Qing'en mocked, his voice muffled yet dripping with disdain. "It would be rather inconvenient for you if that aging head of yours were to inadvertently join my collection."
The metal monstrosity waved its two giant claws menacingly at the seasoned general, their sharpened blades still stained with the blood of yesterday's battle. Crimson streaks adorned them, earned through a day's worth of village pillaging in the fringe territories of Jian Xin.
"And do not grow too proud of your petty victory yesterday. Were it not for my role as vanguard, your unit would have been decimated," An Qing'en taunted further, deriding the general's age and insinuating that he had squandered his youth on irrelevant battle strategies of yore. "Unlike you, I have no intention of becoming a general who sits at the rear, delegating tasks to others. A true warrior confronts their foes with their own strength, not hiding behind ancient tactics scribed thousands of years ago."
In the face of this provocation, General Li Zhu'er did not flinch, even restraining the arm of his subordinate who nearly reached for a trident out of anger. The seasoned commander waited patiently as An Qing'en drove away, seemingly seeking a suitable spot to address the entire seven thousand-strong army.
"Endure this, Zaoju," Li Zhu'er said to his trusted aide, his tone a mixture of resignation and determination.
"But father, I cannot stand by as he tramples upon your honor and that of our men! He has even spilled the blood of our own!"
The younger warrior's resolve burned fiercely, but the middle-aged general cautioned with a weary sigh.
"He is the nephew of the governor," Li Zhu'er reminded. "If we harm him, both our heads would be forfeit. Let us retrieve the engineer and return home."
Before the general could divide the force into two flexible divisions to encircle the caravan away from Ba Sing Se's border, the narcissistic An Qing'en bellowed vague orders to the troops. In a display that flagrantly disregarded the hierarchical structure of the army, An Qing'en commanded the entire contingent to pursue the caravan relentlessly. Intent on capturing the engineer, this blood relative of the governor even dangled a grotesque incentive before the largely peasant-born army.
"Except for that scholar leading the caravan, every head you bring me will earn you ten silver coins," An Qing'en declared with a smirk. "Better yet, a gold coin awaits anyone who can capture one of those giant beasts. I intend to sever their heads myself."
Li Zhu'er and Zaoju were appalled by this blatant disregard for command structure. But due to An Qing'en's influential blood ties, any attempt to impede this hijacking effort would only sow distrust between them and An Lushan himself.
"Leaving this to some old fool who dallies and plans is unnecessary," An Qing'en taunted further. "My uncle values those who seize success without being burdened by trivial details. The first to bring me that engineer shall be ennobled!"
With this final temptation, the entire army surged toward the fleeing caravan like disorganized wasps chasing honey. Men and beasts thundered across the ground, lured by the promise of reward and heedless of the rational voice attempting to dissuade them.
"You fool! Our orders are to capture, not to kill!" Li Zhu'er's warning fell upon deaf ears. Returning escaped farmers to their homes was crucial to maintaining Xiao Zhong's already declining crop yields. Wanton bloodshed would only compound the region's drought woes.
"Father, let us pursue them," Zaoju urged. "Our men have succumbed to madness. We must ensure they do not inadvertently harm Su Song."
"Most of our men are on foot, they will exhaust themselves before even reaching the scholar," Li Zhu'er observed shrewdly. "My greater concern lies with that reckless nephew. Even if Su Song is killed by his hands, it is we who will bear the consequences."
Li Zhu'er cursed bitterly as he witnessed his own soldiers racing after the caravan. The majority of the seven thousand-strong army followed An Qing'en, including the platoon of heavily armored cavalrymen who served as the madman's personal retinue. Yet, such a spectacle was inevitable. Every army in the world relied on commoners as its backbone, ordinary citizens whose sole livelihood often depended on tending to their farmlands. The allure of enrichment, primarily achieved through looting and pillaging defenseless civilians, proved irresistible, particularly when coupled with the promise of extravagant rewards or the slim chance of elevation to nobility. Even the most virtuous peasants would consider betraying their conscience for the sake of attaining the privileges of a noble.
Accompanied by a contingent of loyal cavalrymen, far more disciplined than their less prestigious counterparts, the father and son duo set off in pursuit of the disorganized horde of opportunists. In the distance, they could already discern the exchange of arrows between the caravan and the mounted archers of An Qing'en's elite unit.
...
Swift and agile, the Kyoshi Warriors raced across the open terrain, outpacing the ground Sky Bisons and malnourished refugees. They arrived at what is presumably the border that divides the state of Xiao Zhong and Ba Sing Se. To their surprise, there are no imposing walls or fortified barriers marking the boundary, only a solitary flag with a golden coin symbol planted in the sand, accompanied by a weathered stone etched with faint inscriptions.
Satchiko is already panting with ragged gasps. Mayumi urged her to continue.
As they dashed past the symbolic marker, their progress was abruptly halted as a volley of arrows rained down on the ground just ahead of them, deliberately aimed to obstruct their path. Reacting swiftly, Mayumi intercepted Satchiko, her arm outstretched to shield her companion from harm.
Relief flooded their hearts as silhouettes of mounted archers emerged from concealment. Though clad in green uniforms and conical helmet commonly found everywhere in the Earth Kingdom, these soldiers bore distinct golden embellishments upon their attire. The golden coin symbols woven onto their chests further distinguished them as hailing from a different state.
"Stay calm, sister," Mayumi whispered, gently lowering Satchiko's raised fan. "These are not the same soldiers who are chasing us, let us not provoke unnecessary conflict."
Despite their relief, the presence of these sentries posed a dilemma. The captain's stern command echoed across the plain as he ordered his men to aim their bows at the two sisters. Additional foot soldiers hastened to reinforce their ranks, forming a small blockade.
"Identify yourselves," the captain demanded, his voice tinged with authority.
Mayumi responded promptly, her tone measured and respectful. It did not matter that they are unfamiliar with Kyoshi Island, a remote place not even important enough to be included on most maps. She conveyed the urgency of the situation, alerting them to the approaching throng of refugees and nomads fleeing towards their position.
Acknowledging the gravity of the impending crisis, the mounted captain swiftly issued orders, marshaling his troops to intercept the oncoming tide of Xiao Zhong soldiers.
"You two, stand aside," he commanded, gesturing for the Kyoshi Warriors to take refuge behind that nearby hill. "By entering Ba Sing Se's territory, you fall under our jurisdiction. One wrong move and I will guarantee your swift demise."
Complying without hesitation, Satchiko and Mayumi retreated to the designated vantage point, accompanied by a trio of soldiers assigned to oversee their movements. From their elevated perch, they witnessed the chaotic spectacle unfolding before them.
A procession of caravans thundered across the border, pursued by a relentless volley of arrows from the forces of Xiao Zhong. The slower refugees also escaped barely with their lives. Despite already crossing into Ba Sing Se's territory, the Khan shouted for the whole herd of Sky Bisons to continue their stampede.
The last exhausted peasant stumbled across the invisible boundary, seeking respite just steps away Xiao Zhong's land. Tired and exhausted, he sat down to rest, fully convinced that the pursuing soldiers would not venture beyond their territory. The sound of thundering steeds quickly made him regret this decision. The illusion of sanctuary shattered as a lone cavalryman bore down upon him, his lance couched to strike. With a swift, merciless thrust, the soldier silenced the peasant's desperate cries, crossing into Ba Sing Se's domain without hesitation or remorse.
A detachment of lightly armored cavalrymen rode their steeds across the boundary, flattening the flag bearing Ba Sing Se's insignia.
They swiftly encircled a group of refugees, their ostrich horses forming a barrier to block off any hope of escape. The peasants huddled together, trembling in fear as the mounted troops of Xiao Zhong trained their bows on the vulnerable escapees. A lone mother clutched her infant tightly, seeking shelter behind a makeshift barricade formed by another refugee's wooden cart.
"Where do you think you're going?" sneered Colonel Jin Zhou, his voice dripping with contempt. "You worthless rabble, where do you think you're running off to?"
The peasants dared not respond to the rhetorical question, their emaciated bodies clad in little more than tattered tunics offering no defense against the soldiers' menacing polearms. A few amongst them mustered the meager courage to grasp dried sticks from the ground, futile attempts at makeshift weapons in the face of certain doom.
Brandishing his jian with a flourish, Colonel Jin Zhou ordered the peasants to return immediately to Xiao Zhong. In a desperate act of defiance, one of the peasants swung a stick at the officer, only to meet a swift and fatal end as the blade sliced through both wood and flesh, severing the makeshift weapon and the wielder's neck in one merciless stroke. The gruesome sight sent a shiver of terror through the refugees, yet not one among them showed any inclination to return back to their nobles.
"Colonel Jin Zhou, we have company!"
Archers and spearmen emerged from dried grass concealment, their distinct green and golden armor blending with the dense foliage as they swiftly encircled the trespassing troops of Xiao Zhong, weapons poised to strike from two opposite flanks.
Moments later, the captain of this platoon arrived with a dozen of his cavalrymen, his voice ringing out as he addressed the soldiers clad in the darker green uniforms.
"Who dares to pillage within our borders!" he demanded.
Though both sides wore the same style of Earth Kingdom armor, the distinction in coloration is clear. It is easy to recognize the soldiers of Ba Sing Se who proudly displayed the golden coin symbol on their torsos. Yet amidst the volatile border regions, it is harder for these border guards to distinguish between the various warring factions.
"Look closely," Colonel Jin Zhou retorted, gesturing toward the refugees. "These are people of Xiao Zhong. Under my command, we have come to retrieve them."
"Please, just let us go!" pleaded a desperate father. "If we return to Xiao Zhong, we are as good as dead!"
"We toil in the fields all day, yet have nothing eat!" added another peasant. "We will starve to death if we go back!"
The chorus of protests echoed through the group of refugees, their frustration and despair palpable. Yet, their outcry only stoked the ire of Colonel Jin Zhou, who leveled his jian at them with a menacing glare.
"You wretched vagrants!" Colonel Jin Zhou's voice dripped with venom. "If you do not return to Xiao Zhong, I will have you all killed right here! Archers, ready!"
Panic swept through the refugees like wildfire, a child's desperate cries for his mother echoing through the air, prompting the Ba Sing Se captain to act.
"Who dares!" challenged officer, his own jian drawn as he ordered his men to prepare their bows. "These people are now under Ba Sing Se's protection! Lay a hand on them, and your corpses will litter this land for eternity! You have the audacity to cause trouble in my station?"
Colonel Jin Zhou's aide advised caution, warning against engaging the soldiers of Ba Sing Se, who held a slight numerical advantage. As the tense standoff persisted, another platoon of border guards intercepted the fleeing caravans from Xiao Zhong, escorting the nomads and their beasts away from the fray. Left behind were the refugees, stranded in a state of limbo. Additionally, Liu Song is apprehended, his light green uniform makes him a possible threat.
From across the border, an imposing army of thousands finally caught up, their mounted archers and chariots forming a daunting sight for the outnumbered border guards, who numbered barely fifty men.
"C-captain, should we retreat?" one soldier stammered, his voice trembling with fear.
"Stand your ground!" bellowed the Ba Sing Se officer, though the tremors in his men's hands betrayed their genuine apprehension.
A mounted warrior from Xiao Zhong rode forth in an attempt to defuse the tension, while simultaneously Zaoju approached the Ba Sing Se soldiers, demanding the immediate return of a skilled engineer.
"A fugitive from our state has escaped into Ba Sing Se's land. He is with that caravan, please retrieve him and-"
"Watch your tongue, boy," the Ba Sing Se captain sneered contemptuously. "Youths like you should stay home where you belong."
Zaoju bristled with indignation, his anger evident.
From their concealed vantage point atop the hill, the Kyoshi Warriors observed the exchange. Though their supervisors expressed admiration for their bold leader, Mayumi sensed the officer's struggle to maintain a facade of strength. Outnumbered so overwhelmingly, their only hope lay in deceiving the Xiao Zhong army enough to save their lives. The tactic of appearing strong when weak is a reasonable but risky tactic. Despite the borders and the threat of reprisal, there is realistically little to prevent the overwhelming forces of Xiao Zhong from killing them all.
"Insolence! How dare a minor officer like yourself insult me!" Zaoju pointed his trident at the Ba Sing Se captain, who struggled to maintain composure despite the beads of sweat forming on his brow. "The likes of you would be honored enough to survive five seconds against my trident!"
The sound of another galloping ostrich horse soon interrupted the escalating confrontation. The general of the Xiao Zhong army arrived hastily, addressing the Ba Sing Se captain with proper decorum.
"Captain Bian Jing, I trust you are well," Li Zhu'er greeted in a cordial tone.
"Likewise," replied Officer Bian Jing. "Though it would have been preferable if you could control your own soldiers. They behave like rats scavenging for scraps after a harvest. But then again, I doubt your people even ate well last spring. The drought must have hit you hard. Fear not, if your people come to Ba Sing Se seeking food, even our leftovers would fatten them up."
Li Zhu'er chose not to engage in argument, much to Zaoju's surprise. Instead, he acknowledged Bian Jing's insults with a respectful fist and palm salute, apologizing for the inconvenience.
"Your concerns are valid, and it is my duty to maintain order in my army," Li Zhu'er reassured. "However, we hope you can graciously return the scholar, Su Song, back to our state. His talents are vital to our interests, and my governor has entrusted me with his retrieval. As a fellow soldier, I am sure you understand the difficult expectations placed upon us by our respective superiors."
Bian Jing feigned magnanimity, dropping his guard with the arrival of the Xiao Zhong general, confident that Li Zhu'er would not risk ordering an attack. Emboldened, he proceeded to mock the entire Xiao Zhong army, deriding them as mere ruffians.
"Especially this young one here," Bian Jing jabbed a finger at Zaoju. "Bold and audacious, yet thinks he belongs in a conversation among adults."
"How dare you!" Zaoju roared, his anger palpable. Li Zhu'er's desperate attempt to restrain his aide only fueled Bian Jing's arrogance.
"This is my adopted son, Zaoju," General Li Zhu'er interjected, hoping to defuse the tension. "He hails from the western continent. While he may have grown old enough to accompany me to battle, he still has much to learn. I trust you can show him some understanding."
Bian Jing scrutinized the defiant Xiao Zhong warrior, eyes narrowing as he noted another detail that could be exploited.
"Aha!" Bian Jing exclaimed with a hearty laugh. "I can tell from those red eyes that you must be one of those Ask Maker filth!"
Zaoju bristled visibly at the insult. Though the Hundred Year War had officially ended, its scars remained raw, a constant reminder of the Fire Nation's aggression and the devastation it wrought upon the world. Even now, the world still grappled with the consequences of its ruthless conquests. The Air Nomads of old had been wiped out, their legacy replaced by pale imitations that could never truly fill the void left behind. The Southern Water Tribe, too, bore the weight of the Fire Nation's brutality. Its population of dwindling Waterbenders is a brutal reminder of the indiscriminate raiders who are even more immoral than corsairs. And then there is the Earth Kingdom, once the greatest power in the world, now a shadow of its former self. The scars of war ran deep here, particularly in the western territories that had been stolen by a child who proved unable to keep his promises. These wounds are more than just physical. Memories of the Fire Nation's aggression lingered, fueling a desire for vengeance that had yet to be extinguished.
"If it weren't for your father's intervention, me and the boys would have flailed the likes of you, then sending you to a watery grave in the Chu River just behind me," Bian Jing continued, leaning in to further provoke Zaoju. "But I'm feeling rather merciful today. Perhaps I'll let you dig your own graves instead. It's a lenient punishment for trespassing into Ba Sing Se's territory, wouldn't you agree?"
Li Zhu'er attempted to defuse the situation, urging Bian Jing not to provoke Zaoju or the remaining Xiao Zhong soldiers. Despite the vast numerical superiority of the Xiao Zhong army, the consequences of attacking the outnumbered Ba Sing Se forces could spark a full-blown war, potentially leading to Xiao Zhong's downfall at the hands of a coalition between their sworn enemy, Jian Xin, and the neutral Ba Sing Se. Faced with such dire prospects, Li Zhu'er preferred the disgrace of failing to retrieve the fleeing scholar over being responsible for unleashing the might of Ba Sing Se's armies upon his state.
"We're leaving," Li Zhu'er announced with a heavy sigh, ordering his army to turn around, much to the satisfaction of the border guard captain. The mounted archers allowed the refugees to pass unhindered toward the Ba Sing Se soldiers, who are grateful to avoid a one-sided slaughter.
Bian Jing let out a triumphant laugh, taunting the retreating Xiao Zhong soldiers. "That's right, scurry back to your little backwater state! Don't you dare give me another excuse to cross into my-"
A chilling scream shattered the air, drawing all eyes to its source. Suddenly, the Ba Sing Se soldiers positioned on the right flank were ambushed by a monstrous metal creature. The giant humanoid's massive claws tore through men as though they were mere wheat stalks, staining the ground crimson with blood. Soldiers clad in green and gold armor cried out in terror as they were mercilessly crushed into pulp.
Horror gripped everyone present, especially Li Zhu'er, who understood the dire consequences of this reckless act.
"You fool!" the Xiao Zhong general's voice thundered. "You've doomed us all!"
"Silence, old man!" An Qing'en spat.
The other Ba Sing Se border soldiers nearly lost their composure, prompting Officer Bian Jing to assert control.
"Don't just stand there, fight!"
Multiple bowmen unleashed their arrows, but they harmlessly bounced off the metal exterior. Earthbenders hurled boulders at An Qing'en's impeccable armor, all to no avail. Upon seeing the array of severed limbs and heads donning the monster, whatever minuscule morale these border guards harbor is completely depleted.
The refugees fled in terror as the Ba Sing Se soldiers fought desperately against the onslaught. Amidst the chaos, An Qing'en offered a gold coin for every slain border guard, a command countered by Li Zhu'er's threat of execution for violators.
However, An Qing'en's personal soldiers, clad in heavy lamellar armor that obscured their faces, remained unaffected by Li Zhu'er's command. They followed their leader, charging through the border to slaughter the helpless soldiers and claim their grisly rewards.
Bian Jing watched helplessly as the refugees fled, knowing they would be easily chased down by the swift ostrich horses and the agile humanoid creature. Before he could react, the metal monster stood before him, its claw swinging down to cleave through his ostrich horse and then his own body.
With Bian Jing and his colleagues slain by An Qing'en's elite cavalrymen, the surviving Ba Sing Se soldiers routed in the face of the overwhelming assault. Despite Li Zhu'er's pleas to cease the senseless violence, the remaining patrolmen fell to arrows as they fled.
Unrestrained by military discipline, An Qing'en ordered his faster cavalrymen to hunt down the fleeing refugees. The platoon of mounted troops rode on, charging at the defenseless peasants. They used their spears to impale those who couldn't flee fast enough, mercilessly trampling their bodies beneath the sharp claws of their steeds.
"We have to help them!" Satchiko implored Mayumi and the three other soldiers.
"No," Mayumi responded firmly, much to Satchiko's dismay. "I thought you promised me you wouldn't needlessly risk your life."
"But-"
"Not another word!" Mayumi interrupted. "Can't you see my point? There are thousands out there. What kind of people would risk their own sibling's life for strangers they've never met? This isn't a game, sister. We're not on Kyoshi Island, and we have none of our fellow sisters here to support us. Do you truly believe you alone could defeat an army of thousands?"
Satchiko hesitated, grappling with the weight of Mayumi's words.
"Please," Mayumi's touch on Satchiko's arm pleaded for restraint. The agonizing screams of the fleeing civilians seemed to fade into the distance, perhaps as Satchiko's mind sought refuge from the horrors unfolding nearby. Remaining hidden could ensure their safe arrival at Ba Sing Se's gate without drawing the attention of those merciless butchers.
But before Satchiko could respond, one of the Ba Sing Se soldiers challenged their resolve.
"You cowards!" the young man lashed out. "I thought you were warriors. Turns out, you're just charlatans!"
Mayumi visibly bristled with anger but managed to contain it. Yet, she shared a desire to view the situation with a clear-eyed perspective rather than through the lens of romanticized heroism. It was a sentiment not unique to her. After all, it's often the young who are drawn to the allure of glory and bravery.
The Ba Sing Se soldier raised a two-handed pudao, preparing to reveal himself and engage in combat. "I'm going out to avenge the captain and our fallen brothers. I'll use the head of whoever is in that giant armor as an offering to ease their spirits in the afterlife."
"Quiet, Bai Ju," a middle-aged soldier hushed. "You don't know what you're doing. Your recklessness will get us all killed!" He cast a wary glance at the metal monster and the detachment of elite cavalrymen accompanying the madman, their lamellar armor is heavier than the uniform worn by regular Earth Kingdom infantrymen. "Listen, nephew, this situation is beyond us. If we care about those people down there, we'll wait for reinforcements!"
As he spoke, the third border guard released a messenger bird, watching as it flew swiftly toward Ba Sing Se. Some of the older onlookers seemed resigned to the likelihood that most of the refugees would perish before help can arrive, while others remained undeterred. It was a mix of bravery and folly to face a tide of thousands, a feat few in history had accomplished.
A woman's scream shattered the tense silence, drawing their attention to a Xiao Zhong cavalryman assaulting fleeing farmers. In a sickening display, he injured a woman's leg with his lance, then attempted to drag her toward his steed with intentions that defiled morality itself.
"Die, you vermin!"
Bai Ju charged out of hiding, his polearm aimed at his first enemy. The Xiao Zhong soldier, caught off guard, was forced to release the peasant woman, who fled as the two men clashed. Despite Bai Ju's initial advantage, his pudao couldn't penetrate the elite soldier's thick lamellar armor. The scales deflected the strikes, and despite his efforts, Bai Ju found himself gradually overpowered, his hands maimed by the enemy's spear. Yet still, they fought on, locked in a desperate struggle for survival.
Bai Ju clenched his teeth as he parried the cavalryman's lance with the wooden shaft of his pudao, narrowly avoiding being impaled. But before the Xiao Zhong soldier could strike, a closed metal fan hurtled through the air, piercing his left eye. The enemy screamed in agony, giving Bai Ju the opening he needed to strike, delivering a fatal blow to the man's forehead.
"I spoke too soon," Bai Ju spat on the corpse as he retrieved the metal fan. He hurled it towards the Kyoshi Warrior who had come to assist, she is relieved to see that the woman he had saved earlier escaped safely.
Their moment of victory was short-lived as they were immediately swarmed by charging cavalrymen. Bai Ju reacted swiftly, using his polearm to trip the ostrich horses and dismount the riders before dispatching them with deadly strikes. Meanwhile, the Kyoshi Warrior utilized her agility and skill with the metal fan to evade the incoming spears, incapacitating her foes with precise strikes to vulnerable areas. She lunged at the enemies, performing chi-blocking on their half-exposed faces.
Just as she paralyzed the seventh opponent, Satchiko sensed an enemy behind her. She spun around, narrowly dodging the thrust and countering with a swift move that incapacitated her attacker. The Kyoshi Warrior grabbed the weapon's shaft and using the opponent's force against him. After tripping the soldier to the ground, she delivered a heavy jab at the top of his spine. But this is hindered by the thick lamellar, her painful knuckled forced her to hiss in pain.
Seeing her struggle, Bai Ju swiftly intervened, dismembering the soldier's nose with a chop before driving the pudao into the face. Satchiko tried not to be intimidated by this sight, knowing that these cavalrymen were indiscriminately attacking fleeing peasants.
In the heat of battle, Satchiko faced a sudden onslaught as five mounted enemies charge towards her. Instinctively, she prepared to dodge. But before she can react, small flying knives find their mark, piercing the exposed eyes of the cavalrymen. A glimmer of hope lights up Satchiko's eyes as she witnessed her own sister and two other soldiers charging down the hill. In her adrenaline-fueled state, she momentarily forgets that Mayumi, besides her prized blade, also carries an assortment of throwable objects.
"We'll discuss your insubordination later," Mayumi's voice carries weight, heavy with disappointment. "Assuming we survive this."
The tranquility of the moment is shattered when Bai Ju is struck by an arrow from a mounted bowman. The projectile impaled his leg, eliciting a gut-wrenching scream.
"Don't remove it, nephew!" the older soldier's command rings out amidst the chaos. He quickly directs them to grab the shields of fallen Ba Sing Se soldiers, forming a haphazard shield wall to deflect the cavalry attacks.
Mayumi's skill with her throwable projectiles becomes evident as she incapacitates at least ten enemies, while the remaining soldiers keep their distance from the ostrich horses, wielding their polearms with precision. Despite the effectiveness of their improvised tactics, the urgency of the moment caused them to overlook a critical fact about their world.
Their makeshift defense is shattered as a massive boulder of earth crashes into their formation. One of the Ba Sing Se soldiers, who had released a messenger pigeon moments before, is instantly obliterated upon impact. His body torn asunder. Satchiko watched in silent horror as the scene unfolds before her. She spotted the Earthbender responsible, and Mayumi unleashed her throwable knives in retaliation. However, the foe erected a protective wall of earth, shielding himself.
In the heat of battle, the young sister surged forward with lightning precision. Each movement was a dance of deadly grace, honed through past skirmishes against Earthbenders. She had learned their tactics, their rhythms, and now she anticipated their strikes before they even began. With a fluidity born of training and instinct, she evaded each attack, slipping through the onslaught unscathed.
As she closed in on her enemy, she unleashed her most useful techniques. With a swift twist of her forearm, she redirected a desperate punch and followed through with a devastating strike to the throat, a move executed with such precision that even the most seasoned warrior would falter. Bai Ju limped over, delivering another killing blow. Unlike the other cavalrymen, this Earthbender's two foot are unprotected, allowing the Ba Sing Se soldier to swing at the exposed flesh.
But even her unparalleled skill could not stem the tide of the enemy's numbers. Bai Ju is shot with another arrow across the right shoulder. Three foes descended upon him, their blades finding gaps in his armor with ruthless efficiency. Only the timely intervention of his uncle spared him from certain death, though not without cost. The uncle's sacrifice was measured in flesh and blood, one hand severed by a savage blow from a saber.
Mayumi, ever vigilant, sought to cover their retreat. With a flick of her wrist, she unleashed a volley of tiny steel pikes, each finding its mark amidst the chaos. Meanwhile, Satchiko wielded her metal fan with precision. The golden blades incapacitate her foes with calculated strikes, chopping spear shafts and maiming hands.
Amidst the turmoil, Satchiko's gaze fell upon the retreating refugees, their desperate flight into a dense field of fog becomes a stark reminder of the stakes at hand. Yet even as she moved to help the ones who cannot escape, she knew not all of them would be saved by their diversion.
She spotted a Xiao Zhong trooper chasing a mother and her infant, the same duo she saw previously. Within a heartbeat, she dashed towards their position to parry a strike from the polearm. While the soldier tried to stab at her shoulder, a quick dodge allowed her to disarm his weapon. A series of jabs across the face then proceeded, paralyzing the hideous creature's face.
But despite this setback, the Xiao Zhong soldier still intends to fight, brandishing a backup blade.
"You disgust me," Satchiko glared at him.
In a blur of motion, she engaged her foe, parrying his blows with effortless grace. With each strike, she pushed him further back, her movements a deadly symphony of precision and power. Yet even as she delivered the final blow, a sense of unease gnawed at her. It is a reminder of the cost of war, measured not only in lives lost but also in the souls scarred by its horrors.
Using the metal fan, she easily redirected the blade's strike away from her face. In return, she managed to slice his palm and dislocating the soldier's jaw with another precise kick. He cried with pain as he rolled across the ground tirelessly. The Kyoshi Warrior simply stood there, hands flinching slightly by what she has done. But to ensure this creature does not harm anyone else again, she gripped the metal fan hard, intending to perform a deed that she and Mayumi have not willingly performed in their lives.
"Sister!" Mayumi's voice cut through the din of battle. She dashed by Satchiko's side, deflecting a hail of arrows. The straggling soldier on the ground is unintentionally killed by his own allies, with an arrow piercing directly through unprotected gap on the face.
The enemy cavalry thundered towards them, their spears couched for the kill. To face such charge is simply suicidal.
As the two sisters prepared to evade the oncoming cavalry, a sudden barrage of arrows pierced the air, striking the steeds and sending their riders crashing to the ground. Across the field, surviving soldiers from Ba Sing Se emerged, their dao drawn and determination etched upon their faces. They descended upon the Xiao Zhong cavalrymen, exploiting their momentary vulnerability. Additionally, they even brought the Jianxinese under their custody into the fray, fully exploiting the twenty years of hatred between the two warring states.
Liu Song let out a furious scream as he impaled a cavalryman's throat with the tip of his spear, the force behind the blow driving through even the thickest armor. He fought like a madman, facing his foes in a frenzy, not afraid to leave his hands bloodied.
Amidst the chaos of battle, Satchiko's gaze fell upon the fleeing mother and child, their successful escape into the fog provided a small glimmer of hope amidst the carnage. Yet this moment of relief was short-lived, for as she turned back, the Kyoshi Warrior is met with a sight that froze the blood in her veins.
"So, you all want to die that badly, eh?" The voice cut through the din of battle, drawing the attention of all present.
The creature looked at them with multiple heads, all attached around the circular glass.
Mayumi's petrified grimace mirrored the horror etched upon the faces of the surviving border guards. Unseen until now, the unholy mechanical construct loomed ominously on the battlefield, a grotesque amalgamation of metal and flesh that defied comprehension. Human body parts adorned its form, a macabre display of gore that sent shivers down the spines of all who beheld it. Heads and limbs were sewn together in a nightmarish tapestry, blood staining its metallic surface in a gruesome testament to its creator's depravity. But perhaps the most chilling of all is the figure encased behind the glass, orchestrating this grotesque puppet with a madness that defied reason.
For a moment, silence reigned as the enormity of their adversary sank in.
In the face of such unspeakable cruelty that does not even spare women and children, words fail to convey the horror that grips the hearts of those who bear witness. This is not the work of some malevolent spirit, but the twisted machinations of a single individual. If the intended effect is to intimidate his foes, An Qing'en accomplished that successfully. His grotesque creation, a melding of metal and flesh, stands as a testament to his depravity.
"Oh, I thought Ba Sing Se would be quite the powerhouse, looks like you all are just numbers!" As he taunts his foes with sadistic glee, the Ba Sing Se soldiers stand frozen in terror, their resolve crumbling beneath the weight of his malevolence. With a flick of those claws, he rends a hapless soldier in twain. Yet amidst the horror, one man stands undaunted. After all, the corpses being used to decorate this mechanized suit are citizens of Jian Xin, victims of a recent pillage.
Liu Song, consumed by rage and grief, launches himself at An Qing'en with reckless abandon. His blows falling futile against the impervious armor of the metal humanoid.
An Qing'en is amused. With a single swing, he bashed the Jianxinese, flinging him into a nearby pile of sand.
"Liu Song!" Satchiko's cried.
But there is no time to mourn. The metal monstrosity turns its attention towards them, its claws poised to strike. Charging at full speed, An Qing'en mowed down three Ba Sing Se soldiers. It pinched a bowman's neck, severing the head from the body. When one man tried to hold up a shield, the sharpened tip of a claw simply punctured the wooden barrier alongside the wielder's armor, going all the way through the spine.
"Big sis, what should we do?" Satchiko asked in a panic, breathing fast as she can feel her whole body unwillingly shake in fear. Tears started to flow down her face, never has she been so afraid.
The sight of Mayumi's trembling hands clutching the blade sent a shiver down Satchiko's spine, a stark reminder of the terror that surrounded them. Without hesitation, she grasped her sister's hand and fled, their hearts pounding in unison while racing away from the otherworldly horror that pursued them. Yet with each step, the echoes of death grew louder. More Ba Sing Se soldiers are cleaved by merciless claws of the metal monstrosity, their final cries echoing in the air like a dirge of despair. Bai Ju and his uncle joined the chorus of agony, their voices silenced by the arrows of Xiao Zhong archers.
Too afraid to look back, the sisters pressed on, their breaths ragged with fear. But their flight was short-lived, for soon the giant humanoid closed in, its grasp seizing Mayumi by the waist.
Satchiko's scream tore through the air, desperation fueling a futile attempt to free her sister from the metal monster's clutches. With a trembling hand, she hurled her metal fan at the creature's head, cracking the windshield but failing to loosen its grip.
"Let her go!" Satchiko's voice wavered with fear, her heart pounding in her chest as she watched helplessly.
Mayumi urged her sister to escape, but Satchiko stood frozen, paralyzed by regret and fear. She couldn't bear the thought of losing her closest confidant, to the horrors that surrounded them.
"It's inconvenient, isn't it?" An Qing'en's voice cut through the silence. "I saw how you saved that mother and her child. Quite heroic, but ultimately futile, wouldn't you agree?"
Satchiko remained silent, her breath catching in the throat while fighting back tears. She dared not speak, knowing that any resistance would only invite further torment.
"I've sent my men to bring me the heads of those who dare defy me," An Qing'en continued, his voice chillingly calm. "Why waste food on them when their lives can serve a greater purpose, adorning my armor for all to see? Such is the reward for the peasants who dares to abandon the land they lived for generations."
Once again, Satchiko remained silent, her gaze drawn to the grotesque display of torn body parts adorning the metal suit. The faces of children, frozen in eternal agony, stared back at her, a grim reminder of the fate that awaited them if they did not find a way to escape.
Amidst the chaos and despair, even the thoughts of Avatar Kyoshi were not enough to stem the tide of sorrow that washed over Satchiko. The endless carnage had depleted her conviction, leaving her feeling dreadfully resigned to their inevitable demise as the encirclement of heavily armored cavalrymen closed in around them. An Qing'en reveled in their torment, continued to use Mayumi as a pawn to further Satchiko's anguish, knowing all too well the power of familial bonds in preventing escape. If they hadn't venture out of their concealment, this predicament would not have transpired.
"Sorry, Mayumi," Satchiko whispered, her voice heavy with sorrow. "But at least we can face death together as sisters."
Mayumi's cry of despair pierced the air as Satchiko stood resolute, refusing to flee even as An Qing'en swung his claw towards her. In that moment of impending doom, time seemed to slow, each heartbeat echoing in the deafening silence. The giant blades managed to pierce the lacquered armor.
But then, a flash of silver cut through the air, striking the claw with such force that it sent An Qingen's armor backwards. Satchiko merely tumbled to the ground, miraculously unharmed despite the puncture of her lacquered chest plate.
"Sister!" Mayumi's voice trembled with relief and concern. "Speak to me!"
Dazed and disoriented, Satchiko struggled to comprehend the sudden turn of events. Had the spirits intervened? Was it the hand of Avatar Kyoshi herself that had spared her from certain death?
As she tried to make sense of it all, her gaze followed the trajectory of the object that had saved her. It is a giant glaive that seemed impractical for mortal hands to wield, yet there is blood fully staining its metal. Even An Qing'en, the sadistic pilot of the metal monstrosity, was taken aback by the unexpected threat to his seemingly invincible armor.
And then, amidst the dense fog occupying the path to Ba Sing Se, a lone silhouette emerged. A heavily armored Xiao Zhong soldier, slowly walking backward. All eyes turned to the mysterious figure, their curiosity piqued by this unexpected turn of events.
"So, you returned," An Qing'en said with a displeased tone. "Where are the heads of those peasants that I asked?"
An Qing'en's demand for an explanation was met with grim silence. The Xiao Zhong soldier seemingly turned around, forcing all to grimace at the truth. Many recoiled in horror as they saw the man's face. The jaw is missing, ripped directly off the bloodied face. The heavily armored man stumbled a few more steps before falling face flat to the ground, revealing another shadow behind him.
The silhouette has a sleek and muscular body of a middle-aged stag, sinewy limbs that bespoke of untold strength. Atop its regal frame rests the head of a fierce lion, its hardened mane flowing in untamed waves. Its powerful canine-like jaws, adorned with sharp fangs and whiskers of a catfish, exuded an aura of primal ferocity. While its scales, etched with the scars of past battles, spoke of an eternal struggle. As it unveiled itself out of the desert fog, it reared its head, one that resembles a creature that may have descended from the heavens itself.
But it was the creature's horn that truly captured the attention of all who beheld it. A single, spiraling horn that rose proudly from its forehead, gleaming with an otherworldly radiance that spoke of its divine nature. It is also stained with blood, which stands out from the metallic color that covers the reminder of its body.
"Is that... a fox antelope?" one of the Xiao Zhong soldiers ventured, though the creature's fully bronze appearance cast doubt on this observation.
And atop this creature rode an armored figure. While Satchiko is rather proud of her wooden carving toy, nothing can truly imitate the real thing.
Perhaps some people truly don't want to wield this specific polearm after they became deified.
End of Chapter Notes:
-The uniforms of the Ba Sing Se soldiers are based on the Terra Team.