Chapter 19: Permission
"You want my son to travel with you, yes?" Kersha Lung asked, her voice edged with concern as she eyed the two weary travelers standing in her home.
"Temporarily, yes. After we find the Avatar, we intend to settle here in Yokoya," Jianzhu explained, his tone polite.
The Earthbending Master was a man of few words, his posture was straight and composed, giving away little emotion which was the prerequisite for a good politician.
He was not only an Earthbending Master but also an acute man of politics. Being the Avatar's friend comes with a lot of power, political power, that made him one of the most powerful people in the earth kingdom court.
Rai Lung, Tai Lung's father, raised an eyebrow, his normally relaxed demeanor replaced with suspicion. Kersha was always the one to talk within this house when it comes to negotiation while he watches from the background but today he took the initiative.
"Why?" he asked, crossing his arms. "I know my son is extraordinarily smart. Hell, he could talk fluently before he turned one. But I doubt that alone guarantees your interest. What's the real reason?"
"Oho? I didn't know he was that gifted," he said in amusement
Jianzhu, however, remained serious. "It's for another reason," he said, meeting Rai Lung's gaze evenly.
"You may not know it, but your son is extremely talented in hand-to-hand combat. His martial prowess is remarkable, especially for someone so young."
Tai Lung's parents exchanged a look, their expressions a mixture of surprise and confusion. Kersha's brow furrowed as she turned to her son, who had remained silent throughout the conversation, standing quietly beside the two benders.
"Tai Lung… is this true?"
Tai Lung hesitated for a moment, then nodded.
"Yes, Mother. I've been training in secret for many years now."
"Training in secret? We've always known you were smart, but we never thought you were a fighter." Rai Lung frowned.
Tai Lung shifted uncomfortably under their scrutiny. He hadn't wanted his parents to worry, and his training had always been personal—something he did to better himself, to rise above his limitations.
"I didn't tell you because… I didn't want you to think I was pursuing a dangerous path. But martial arts have become a part of who I am. They've given me purpose."
"But why keep it a secret, son? We've always supported you." Kersha folded her arms, her expression softening with concern.
"I know. But I wanted to prove myself, without relying on anyone else. I wanted to show that I could be more than just… smart," Tai Lung explained, his voice steady.
"Your son's talent is undeniable. His abilities will not only aid us in finding the Avatar, but they may also help the Avatar themselves in the future. The world is entering a time of uncertainty, and the Avatar will need strong allies—both benders and non-benders alike." Jianzhu stepped forward.
Kelsang nodded in agreement. "The Avatar will be around Tai Lung's age. Having someone they can relate to, someone strong and capable, would be invaluable. Your son has the potential to become a key figure in the Avatar's life and journey."
Kersha bit her lip, clearly torn. "But you're talking about sending him off on a dangerous mission. What if something happens to him?"
"I understand your concern, Mrs. Lung," Kelsang said gently. "But we won't put your son in unnecessary danger. We'll protect him and guide him. This isn't just about us. It's about what your son wants. He has a gift—a rare one. And if he chooses to, he could use it to help shape the future."
The room fell silent, the words of Kelsang sinking in. Tai Lung's parents looked at their son, waiting for him to speak.
Tai Lung took a deep breath and started.
"Mother, Father," he began, his voice was calm but also firm. "I've spent my whole life trying to find my own path. Now, I believe this is a part of that journey. I want to go with them—not just to find the Avatar, but to continue growing as a martial artist, to prove that I can stand alongside the best. I know it's dangerous, but I'm ready for that."
Rai Lung stared at his son for a long moment before finally sighing. "You're serious about this?"
"Yes, Father," Tai Lung replied, meeting his gaze.
Kersha remained silent, her worry evident in her eyes. But finally, she nodded. "If this is what you truly want, Tai Lung, then we'll support you. Just promise me one thing."
"What's that?" Tai Lung asked.
"Promise me you'll come back safe," she said, her voice trembling slightly.
Tai Lung nodded. "I promise."
Jianzhu and Kelsang exchanged a glance, satisfied with the outcome. Jianzhu stepped forward, offering a formal bow. "Thank you for your trust. We'll take good care of him."
Kelsang smiled warmly at Tai Lung's parents. "He's in good hands. And who knows? Maybe one day, he'll return home as a hero."
With that, the conversation came to a close, and the decision was made.
Tai Lung would join the two bending masters on their quest to find the Avatar.
It didn't take long for Tai Lung to get ready. And soon they were on the road after a lengthy goodbyes.
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