It had been two weeks since I left my sisters, and while it was hard to do, I knew staying with them would mean stagnation. Staying would mean remaining at my current level of power. I wasn't content with that. I had to keep pushing forward, keep evolving. So, I decided to make my way to the Wang Shi Tong Library. Once there, I could gain knowledge that might push me further—maybe even into the spirit world, if I was lucky. But there was something else I needed to do before heading to the library. Misty Palms Oasis.
Toph had given me a small fortune before I left—more than enough to buy this oasis, which seemed to be on the brink of collapse. I'd been here before, in a vision from my past life. The oasis lay directly south of the Wang Shi Tong Library, and if my calculations were right, I would be only a few days ahead if I stopped here first. More importantly, I had plans to restore this place to its former glory. The oasis could serve as a marker, a point on the map to guide my journey.
I walked into the bar situated in the heart of the oasis, the warm desert air mixing with the smells of food, booze, and sweat. The bartender, a burly man with a scruffy beard, nodded at me as I approached.
"What's on the special menu?" I asked, scanning the room for any familiar faces.
He gave me a wide grin, wiping his hands on a rag. "You got it. First drink's on the house, traveler. We've got a Bloody Mary that'll knock your socks off."
I raised an eyebrow but took a seat at the bar. A few moments later, the bartender slid a tall, red drink in front of me. I took a sip, savoring the tangy, spicy flavor. It was the best drink I'd ever had.
"Not bad," I muttered, setting the glass down. "In fact, this is my favorite drink."
The bartender chuckled. "I told you. It's a local favorite."
I wasn't here just for the drinks, though. After finishing the last drop, I slid a hefty bag of coins across the counter, catching the bartender's attention.
"I'm thinking of buying the whole oasis," I said, trying to sound casual, though I knew this wasn't going to be an easy conversation.
The bartender froze. His eyes shifted down to the sack of coins and then back up to my face. His laugh, which had been lighthearted before, now faltered, a nervous smile replacing it.
"You—what?" He leaned in closer, giving the bag of coins another long look. The laughter died in his throat as he processed the situation. "Kid, you're serious, aren't you?"
"Dead serious," I replied, still watching him closely.
The bartender paused for a long moment before sighing heavily. "Alright. Well, if you're serious about taking this off my hands, you should know what you're getting yourself into. You want the full rundown of the businesses in this oasis? You're gonna need it if you plan to turn things around."
I nodded. I had a feeling things weren't as simple as they seemed.
He took a deep breath and began.
The Shimmering Fountain "This place was once a prime spot, selling rare desert herbs and flowers. But lately, the merchant, a guy named Kae, has been getting... forgetful. His memory's going, and he's losing stock because he's leaving plants out in the sun too long. Some customers come for the plants, but others are turning away. The problem is, Kae's daughter is trying to take over, but she's got no interest in herbs. She's more into selling crystals, and it's caused a rift in the family. I wouldn't be surprised if you're dealing with a lot of family drama if you try to make a deal with him."
Misty Springs Hot Springs "Ah, the hot springs. That's a beautiful spot. But here's the catch—the infrastructure is a mess. The plumbing's been faulty for years, and the steam rooms often break down. The water levels fluctuate, sometimes leaving pools almost empty. Maintenance? Nonexistent. The owner, a guy named Haru, is a fantastic host, but he's never been good with repairs. The springs still draw a crowd, but I'd say the place is barely holding on."
Tao's Desert Trading Post "Tao's got the goods, but the guy's a hoarder. His stockroom's overflowing with junk that no one buys. It's becoming harder and harder for him to sell the valuable items because no one knows what's what anymore. He's also been getting into some questionable trades with some unsavory people. Last I heard, he sold a few items to a Fire Nation officer. If the wrong person catches wind of that, you might find yourself in a bit of hot water."
The Sandstorm Tavern "The bar's still popular, sure. But its reputation's been slipping. First off, the place is often overcrowded—locals and travelers alike spilling out onto the sand. The alcohol's good, but the food's been going downhill. We used to get decent cooks, but they all left. The owner, Lysa, is struggling to keep things together. It's a lot of overhead to maintain the bar, and she's been getting behind on payments to the suppliers. Not to mention, the tavern's built on sand—structurally, it's a ticking time bomb. One good storm, and we could lose half of it."
Zoe's Oasis Grill "Zoe's food's amazing, there's no question about that. But she's got a temper that's getting worse by the day. She's been getting into arguments with her staff over the smallest things, and it's hurting the atmosphere. There's also talk about her suppliers running low on stock, and she's having trouble getting fresh ingredients. She refuses to change her menu to accommodate for the lack of supplies, which means more food's getting wasted. And if she doesn't calm down soon, she might run off the rest of her crew."
Rova's Cartography Corner "Rova's maps are great, but she's stubborn. She refuses to update her old maps, claiming the new ones 'don't capture the spirit of the desert.' The thing is, she's so attached to her methods that she's not willing to use newer technologies that could help her produce better maps. She's also become paranoid—suspicious of everyone who comes in. If you try to buy anything from her, you'll have to do some convincing. People are starting to avoid her shop, especially when she starts rambling about 'the curse of the dunes.' Trust me, it's a headache."
The Dune Market "The market's a mess. There's no regulation—no one's keeping the traders in check. The same merchants who sell good stuff will occasionally mix in counterfeit goods or dangerous items. People are starting to notice, and rumors of the market selling black-market goods are spreading. Not to mention, the market's always getting raided by local gangs who want their cut of the profits. The place is in constant turmoil, and security is a joke. You might want to think twice before jumping into this one."
The Mirage Couriers "The Mirage Couriers used to be fast and reliable, but now? Not so much. The head of the service, a guy named Rocco, has been having trouble keeping his crew together. They've been getting into accidents, losing packages, and showing up late. Some of his best drivers left for a better job, and now he's stuck with rookies who can't handle the desert. Worst of all, Rocco owes a huge amount to some unsavory individuals, and they've been making threats. If you take this over, you'll be inheriting a lot of bad blood."
Prax's Stone Carving Works "Prax's carvings are beautiful, there's no doubt about that. But the man's stubbornness is starting to drive away customers. He refuses to take custom orders unless the client is a long-time patron, which limits his market. He's also started drinking more often—his hands are shaking from it, and the quality of his work is starting to slip. The carvings are becoming less detailed, and people are starting to notice. The worst part? He's been selling broken statues as 'art pieces.' If you're thinking of inheriting this one, prepare for a lot of complaints."
The Nomad's Rest "The Nomad's Rest used to be a peaceful place for travelers, but Nima's getting old, and her memory's failing her. The rooms are poorly maintained, the linens are often musty, and her staff is quitting one by one. Worse, she's been giving away rooms for free to anyone who asks, making it impossible to turn a profit. If you want to keep the place afloat, you'll have to put in the work to fix up the rooms, hire a new staff, and sort out the financial mess she's created. And let me tell you—convincing her to let go of the reins won't be easy."
The bartender paused, waiting for me to process all of this. I nodded slowly, weighing the challenge ahead.
"Alright," I said finally. "I'll take it."
The bartender grinned, handing over the deeds to the oasis. "You've got a lot of work ahead of you, but I'll be here if you need anything. Good luck, kid."
With that, the deal was done. I had paid 75% of my coin to take over the oasis, and now it was mine. But before I could even think about managing the businesses, I knew I had one more thing to do.
I walked outside, letting the hot desert wind hit my face as I took a deep breath. The sky above was clear, and the ground beneath me felt dry and cracked. Time to do something about it.
I raised my hands, summoning my fire and ice. It took some effort, but after practicing with my bending, I was able to manipulate the elements in unison. Slowly, clouds began to gather in the sky, swirling as I commanded them. The winds picked up, and soon, the heavens opened.
Rain.
For the first time in thirty years, it rained on the oasis.
The bartender, who had come outside to watch, gave a low whistle of awe. "You did it," he said. "That's real magic."
As the rain fell, I turned to him. "Now, start building rivers and channels. We need to get this water where it belongs."
The bartender nodded. "You've got it, kid. I'll get the crew together."
I had a long road ahead of me—one filled with obstacles, drama, and difficult decisions. But I wasn't afraid. I had the will to fix this place, to make it thrive again.
And nothing was going to stop me.
(timeskip)
After a couple of hours discussing the design and layout of the channels with the crew, I felt satisfied that they understood my vision. I watched as they began marking out paths through the oasis, planning where the new rivers and channels would flow, guiding the fresh rainwater into every corner of this parched land. The ground was already starting to drink up the moisture, small patches of green peeking through the cracked earth. It felt good, seeing life return to this place, but I couldn't linger. There was still much to do.
With a final glance at the bustling activity, I turned away and began my journey toward Wang Shi Tong's Library. The desert stretched endlessly before me, golden dunes rolling beneath the vast, cloud-filled sky. The rain had cooled the air, making the journey slightly more bearable, but the heat still clung to my skin.
Each step took me closer to answers, to the knowledge that might tip the scales in my favor. I'd read stories about the library—its hidden wisdom, its secrets buried deep in the sand. And while I couldn't be sure what I'd find there, I knew it was a path worth taking.
The sun dipped lower as I pressed on, my shadow growing long across the sands. Soon, the stars would begin to appear, and I'd have to rely on the constellations to guide me. The air was filled with a serene quiet, the kind that only the desert could offer.
As I walked, my thoughts drifted back to the oasis. I hoped the crew could handle the task. I'd left them with clear instructions, but there were bound to be challenges. Still, I'd return soon enough to check on their progress. For now, I needed to focus on what lay ahead—the library, the knowledge it held, and the possibilities it might unlock.
With determination fueling my every step, I continued my journey into the night, the vast desert unfolding before me like an unwritten story.
(timeskip)
The desert stretched endlessly before me, a sea of rolling dunes illuminated by the pale glow of the moon. My boots sank slightly into the sand with each step, but I kept my pace steady, eyes fixed on the horizon. The Wang Shi Tong Library was still miles away, and I had no illusions about this journey being easy. The desert was vast, treacherous, and filled with dangers beyond just the harsh elements.
I should've expected trouble sooner.
A faint vibration ran through the sand beneath my feet—too subtle to be natural. I stopped walking, tensing. The wind howled softly across the dunes, but otherwise, the night was silent. That was the first sign something was wrong.
Then I saw it.
A shadow moving across the sand to my left. Then another. Shapes slithering like snakes just beneath the surface. My heart pounded once in warning before my instincts screamed at me—Move!
I leaped backward just as the ground where I had been standing exploded in a burst of sand. A whip of earth shot out, missing my chest by inches. More figures burst from beneath the dunes, rising like ghosts from the earth, clothed in tan robes and veils wrapped around their faces. Sandbenders.
I counted six of them. Their leader, standing at the forefront, was taller than the others and carried a curved blade at his waist. His dark eyes glinted in the moonlight as he studied me.
"Well, well," he drawled, his voice muffled by the cloth over his mouth. "Looks like we found ourselves a lost traveler."
I rolled my shoulders, getting into a stance. "Not lost. Just passing through."
The leader chuckled. "That so? Then maybe you wouldn't mind handing over your supplies. The desert's a dangerous place, after all. Best to travel light."
I exhaled through my nose. Bandits. Figures.
"Not interested," I replied, my voice cold. "But I suggest you move before I make you."
The leader sighed dramatically. "See, I was hoping you'd say that. Boys—" He snapped his fingers, and in an instant, the sand exploded beneath me.
I jumped, twisting in the air as tendrils of sand tried to pull me down. My foot barely touched the ground before another wave of sand came at me from the right. I thrust my arms out—Firebending. Flames erupted from my palms, blasting away the oncoming attack.
The sandbenders barely flinched. Instead, they moved like a tide, their motions fluid as they worked together. More sand rushed toward me, but this time, I was ready.
I planted my foot into the ground, pivoted, and launched a spinning fire kick—a burning arc slicing through the air. The flames carved through the sand, forcing the benders to scatter.
The leader smirked. "A firebender in the desert? Now that's rare." He gestured to his men. "Break him."
They didn't hesitate.
Two of them surged forward, their hands twisting as they commanded the sand into hardened projectiles. They shot toward me like arrows, but I was already moving. I dodged left, then ignited my palms and let loose a stream of fire that carved a burning trench through the sand.
One sandbender tried to leap over it—I caught him midair with a fire-boosted punch to the stomach. His body twisted, hitting the ground hard.
The second attacker came at me from behind. I barely had time to react as a whip of sand coiled around my arm, yanking me forward.
I gritted my teeth and ignited my entire arm in flame, burning through the sand rope before launching a sharp flaming elbow strike to his chest. He let out a strangled gasp and crumpled.
The other four regrouped, shifting their stances. They were done underestimating me.
I only smirked. "Not so fun when someone fights back, huh?"
The leader's eyes darkened. He motioned for his men to spread out. "You're good, but you're not untouchable."
I felt it before I saw it—a rumbling beneath my feet.
Then the sand beneath me collapsed.
I dropped instantly, the ground swallowing me as if the desert had opened its mouth. Quicksand.
I barely managed to twist my hands, slamming them together and sending out a controlled blast of heat. The superheated air solidified the shifting sand just long enough for me to leap out.
The moment I landed, a sandbender was already rushing me, his hands weaving a twisting storm of sand around him. I clenched my fists.
Time to end this.
I took a deep breath. My firebending shifted—deepened. Instead of flame, lightning crackled in my fingertips.
The leader's eyes widened. "Oh—"
I snapped my fingers forward, and a bolt of lightning tore through the air. The sandbender barely managed to dodge, rolling to the side as the bolt struck the dune behind him. The explosion sent sand flying everywhere.
His men hesitated. That was their mistake.
I launched myself forward, lightning still crackling in my hands. My first target barely had time to react before I struck him in the chest with a palm full of electricity. His body seized, his muscles locking as he crumpled into the sand, unconscious.
Another one tried to get me from the side—I spun and delivered a roundhouse kick wreathed in flame, sending him flying.
The third attacker faltered. I wasted no time. My fingers flicked, and another bolt of lightning lanced forward, striking his shoulder. He let out a choked cry before collapsing.
Only the leader remained now.
He slowly backed away, hands raised. "Alright. Alright, we got off on the wrong foot—"
I raised my hand, letting a small arc of lightning dance between my fingers. "You should've thought about that before trying to rob me."
He hesitated, then dropped his weapon and ran.
I watched him disappear into the dunes before finally lowering my hand. The night was silent again, except for the soft crackle of dying flames on the sand.
I took a deep breath, steadying myself. My body hummed with leftover energy from the fight, but I was otherwise unharmed. That went well.
I turned, staring at the unconscious sandbenders around me. I debated leaving them as they were, but after a moment, I sighed and extinguished the lingering flames on the sand. No need to kill them. They'd wake up sore and humiliated, but alive.
With that, I adjusted my cloak, exhaled once more, and resumed my journey.
The library wasn't far now.
And I was more than ready for whatever came next.
A couple of hours later, the desert no longer felt as vast or endless. I'd made good time, pushing forward with my new method of travel. I'd always been creative with my bending, and this time was no different.
After the fight with the sandbenders, I realized I needed to conserve my energy for the journey ahead. That's when the idea hit me. I crouched low to the ground and gathered the moisture beneath the surface, manipulating it into solid ice beneath my feet.
With a quick push, I launched myself onto the makeshift ice board, my feet digging in as the smooth surface gave me the perfect glide.
A burst of firebending under my feet boosted me forward. The heat gave me just the momentum I needed, the fire crackling like jet engines behind me, pushing me across the sand at a ridiculous speed. The board left a trail of frost in its wake, and the scorching desert felt miles away as I effortlessly skimmed over the dunes.
I grinned, the wind whipping through my hair. The ice board allowed me to cover ground quickly, and with my firebending adding a constant boost of speed, I was moving faster than I ever could on foot.
The desert wind rushed past me, and though the heat was still oppressive in the air, I felt a sense of exhilaration. The ice beneath me held firm as I adjusted my course, carving wide arcs around the dunes, my feet only slightly touching the ground as I kept myself balanced.
It didn't take long before I realized that this was the perfect combination of my two bending styles. The ice provided a smooth, gliding surface, while the fire ensured I didn't slow down at all. Together, they formed an efficient method of travel.
I couldn't help but laugh to myself as I sped along, watching the dunes rise and fall in the distance. I was making excellent time. If I kept this up, I'd reach the library much sooner than I had originally thought.
The ice board continued to glide smoothly across the sand, my speed unwavering. The dark expanse of the desert had faded behind me, and the towering spires of the Wang Shi Tong Library slowly began to emerge in the distance. A peak of stone rising from the vast dunes—an imposing and ancient structure. The silhouette of the library looked almost ethereal in the moonlight, its intricate carvings barely visible from afar. It was the perfect place for the knowledge I sought.
I slowed my pace as I approached the library's towering walls. The air felt different here—cooler, almost as if the very atmosphere was tinged with the weight of centuries of secrets. The towering structure stood tall, seemingly impenetrable, but I knew that wouldn't stop me. There was always a way in.
As I stopped, my ice board skimming to a halt on the sand, I looked around. The vast, open expanse of the desert stretched out before me, but now, it was like I was standing at the edge of a whole new world. The library's windows seemed to stretch high above, and I could make out the top of the tower where the knowledge of the ages was stored.
And then, I noticed something out of the corner of my eye—a small figure in the shadow of the tower.
A fox.
It was a curious creature, its fur a soft orange with white markings. Its bright eyes stared at me for a moment, unblinking. I tilted my head, unsure if it was real or just a mirage from the desert heat. But it blinked again, and then—without any hesitation—it padded up to me.
The fox stopped at my feet, looking up at me with those intelligent eyes, and, to my surprise, rubbed its head gently against my leg. I froze for a moment, the softness of its fur brushing against me.
I smiled softly, kneeling down to pet the creature. "Hey there," I murmured, rubbing behind its ears. It made a soft sound in the back of its throat, almost content. I couldn't help but laugh lightly. "I guess you're my welcome party, huh?"
The fox sat down in front of me, looking up with its wide, curious eyes, almost as if it were expecting me to do something next.
I petted it one more time, and then straightened up, feeling a sense of calm wash over me. I had no idea what role this little creature might play, but it felt... right.
Looking up at the library, I knew there was no turning back now. The knowledge I sought was just beyond the stone walls.
"Alright," I muttered to myself. "Time to get in."
I stretched my arms out, gathering moisture from the air and carefully shaping it into a sleek staircase of ice that led up to one of the windows high above the ground. The steps glimmered faintly in the moonlight as I climbed, each step solid beneath my feet, but I still moved with caution.
As I reached the top, I found myself staring through the window, looking inside at the darkened interior of the library. There was no sign of movement, just the stillness of ancient knowledge waiting to be uncovered.
I took a deep breath.
There was no time to waste.
I steadied myself and reached out, carefully tapping the window. The glass gave way, shattering with a soft crash as I moved through.
I leaped inside, the fall downward looking perilously long—at least a hundred feet to the stone floor below. My eyes narrowed. I could already feel the pull of gravity taking hold.
Time to slow it down.
I clenched my fists, pulling in a steady breath, focusing. Then, with a snap of my fingers, I sent a burst of fire down beneath my feet. The flames didn't scorch the air or singe the stone; instead, they acted like an anchor, slowing my descent with a controlled blast of heat.
I hovered in the air for a moment, my heart racing as I carefully adjusted my position. The heat beneath me intensified just enough to cushion my fall. With each second, the ground seemed to approach slower and slower.
When my feet finally touched the stone floor, I exhaled sharply, my legs bending slightly to absorb the landing. I smiled to myself.
"Nice work," I muttered under my breath.
I stood up and surveyed the vast room. Tall shelves lined the walls, filled with ancient scrolls and books, their pages covered with knowledge no doubt lost to time. The stone was cool to the touch, and the air smelled faintly of dust, mixed with something older. The library felt alive in its own way—silent, waiting to share its secrets.
But the room was dimly lit, so I didn't waste any time. I could feel the crackle of energy in the air, the pull of wisdom just beyond reach.
I started walking through the library, the faintest whisper of the fox's presence in the back of my mind as I moved deeper into the archives.
The air in the library felt heavier, colder as I stepped further into its depths. The weight of centuries of knowledge seemed to settle around me like a heavy blanket, urging me to delve deeper. I was ready to begin my search, but something—something else—shifted in the air, a subtle change I couldn't place.
I froze, the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. My senses were on high alert. I felt the presence behind me—something immense, something powerful. A chill ran down my spine, and I didn't need to turn around to know something was wrong.
Then the shadow enveloped me. It was huge, casting a darkness over the room that blocked out the faint moonlight shining through the high windows.
I turned slowly, my pulse quickening, and saw it—the source of the shadow.
A giant owl, its eyes glowing with an intense amber light, stood before me. Its wings stretched wide, the feathers sleek and dark, like the very embodiment of the night sky.
Its gaze locked onto mine, sharp and unblinking. Its beak was massive, and the feathers around its face curled like a regal collar. It was no ordinary owl—it was Wang Shi Tong, the Spirit of Knowledge himself.
I stood still, my breath held in my chest as he loomed over me, his wings curling slightly. There was no hiding from this being, no trickery that could escape his sight.
Wang Shi Tong tilted his head slightly, his eyes narrowing. "Why are you taking a human form?"
The words hung in the air, thick with meaning. I blinked, confused. "What?"
Wang Shi Tong took a step forward, the ground beneath me shaking slightly as his massive form approached. The air around me felt almost oppressive, the weight of his presence enough to make the library seem even grander, more ancient.
"Why are you taking a human form?" he repeated, his voice low and resonant, as if the earth itself trembled with the force of his words.
I stood rooted to the spot, trying to make sense of what he was asking. "I don't know what you mean. I'm human, I've always been human."
Wang Shi Tong's glowing eyes narrowed, inspecting me like an insect beneath a magnifying glass. Then, with a sudden movement, he loomed even closer, lowering his head until his enormous beak was mere inches from mine. His voice softened, almost a whisper, yet I felt it reverberate through my bones.
"Interesting," he said, his voice dripping with intrigue.
I didn't flinch. Instead, I stood my ground, trying to decipher his cryptic words. His presence was almost overwhelming, but I had no time to fear him. There was something else in his tone—something curious, but darkly cautious. I wasn't sure if it was directed at me as a person or at the very essence of my existence.
After a long pause, Wang Shi Tong pulled back, his wings fluttering slightly as he studied me. He seemed to be examining my very soul, or perhaps my intentions, as if my existence in this library was a puzzle for him to solve.
He finally spoke again, his voice deep and resonant. "Why have you come to my library, human?"
I couldn't help but hesitate, my mind racing for the right answer. I thought about the long journey, the battles I had faced, and the urgency that had driven me to this place.
"I came for knowledge," I said, my voice steady, though I knew it didn't sound as convincing as I wanted it to. Wang Shi Tong remained silent for a long moment, his massive form towering over me. His amber eyes studied me like a scholar examining a rare and delicate artifact.
"Knowledge?" he repeated, his voice an echo in the cold library. "Do you think I believe that, little human? All humans lie."
I felt a jolt at his words, a harsh edge to his tone. My heart skipped a beat, but I refused to show any weakness. This was Wang Shi Tong. He was knowledge. If he questioned my motives, it meant he knew more than I did, and I needed to prove myself.
Still, something about the way he said it—the certainty, the conviction with which he spoke—felt like a test. A test I had to pass.
I ignored the last part of his statement. The idea that I was a "special case" didn't sit well with me, and I didn't want to entertain it. My reasons for being here were simple, and I would not let his words distract me.
"I came to acquire knowledge," I repeated, my voice firm. "I need to become stronger to survive the war. And I need the power to reach the Northern Water Tribe."
Wang Shi Tong studied me for another long moment, his glowing eyes not wavering. He was silent, as if weighing my words, weighing my truth. His large wings shifted slightly, causing a gust of wind that rattled the shelves of scrolls nearby.
Wang Shi Tong's enormous, glowing eyes never left mine, studying me in a way that felt like he was peeling back the very layers of my being. I could sense the weight of his gaze, as if every word I spoke was being weighed, measured, and scrutinized. He shifted his massive wings slightly, and the gust of wind it created rattled the ancient scrolls and books that lined the shelves of his domain.
The silence stretched on, becoming thick, almost suffocating. I held my ground, knowing this was the moment I had to be truthful, or I would be cast out of this place, never able to access the knowledge that I so desperately needed.
Wang Shi Tong, the ancient and wise Spirit of Knowledge, finally broke the silence, his voice low and resonant, like the rumble of distant thunder. "You seek knowledge. But you should know this, human: the price of knowledge is always to be paid."
I blinked, taken aback by his words. The weight of his statement hung in the air like an omen, and I realized—I had forgotten about this detail. Every seeker who came to this library paid a price, whether in time, spirit, or something more… tangible.
I hesitated, confusion overtaking me for a moment. What price could I possibly offer? I was a wanderer in this world, with little to my name. What could I give the great Spirit of Knowledge?
But then, an idea sparked in my mind—something that could give me an edge in this moment. A flash of inspiration surged through me, and I reached into my back, pulling out a scroll that had been tucked away for some time.
Wang Shi Tong's amber eyes locked onto the scroll instantly. He did not flinch or move, but I felt his curiosity ripple through the air, growing.
"This," I said, unfurling the scroll before him, "is a record of True Ice Bending, something I have created myself."
Wang Shi Tong's large, piercing eyes narrowed with interest. "True Ice Bending? Explain."
I took a deep breath, my mind already working to find the right words. This was a matter of deep personal pride—and it was my best shot at gaining access to the knowledge I sought.
"True Ice Bending," I began, "is an advanced art of bending that I developed by unlocking both water and air chakras. It involves a delicate balance of elemental forces and spiritual enlightenment. A bender must first unlock both the water and air chakras to understand the foundational principles of water and air bending before they can attempt to manipulate ice with their chi in three distinct ways."
Wang Shi Tong's wings fluttered slightly, a sign of intrigue. He was listening, waiting for more.
"First, drawing from the essence of fire and air bending, practitioners can infuse their chi with intense energy. They can release it as a chilling white mist, which instantly freezes objects upon contact, solidifying them and cooling the atmosphere around them."
I paused for a moment, watching the giant owl closely. His eyes flickered with interest, as though he was piecing together the complexity of this new form of bending.
"Second, much like airbenders, those who practice True Ice Bending can manipulate their chi to interact with the surroundings. They extract heat energy from the air, slowing down the molecular movement and crystallizing the air itself into ice. By shaping this ice, they can control it in various ways."
I could see that Wang Shi Tong was processing what I was saying, his enormous head slightly tilting in contemplation. But I wasn't done yet. There was more. The third method would truly test his understanding.
"Lastly, True Ice Bending incorporates aspects of waterbending. Practitioners can seamlessly transition between the liquid and solid states of water by manipulating the flow of chi within the element. It allows for precise control of ice in all its forms, from delicate shapes to massive walls of frozen power."
Wang Shi Tong stepped closer, his immense wings folding slightly, almost as though he was making room for the full extent of what I had described. His beak moved as if about to speak, but I hurried to finish.
"Besides Earthbending, which I have yet to fully master, this method enables any bender—whether they are waterbender, firebender, or airbender—to use ice in their own way. Each can bend the element with their natural affinity while still manipulating the ice, regardless of their primary bending abilities."
A long silence followed. Wang Shi Tong stared at me for what felt like hours, his sharp amber eyes reflecting the dim light of the library. His wings flared out slightly as he moved closer, almost as though he was inspecting the very fabric of my spirit.
"You have found a way to bend ice… without being a waterbender," Wang Shi Tong finally rumbled, his voice low and deep, tinged with awe. "How does this new form of bending differ from the traditional methods used by waterbenders?"
I nodded, taking the question seriously. "Waterbenders use phase-shifting, manipulating water between its solid, liquid, and gaseous states. But True Ice Bending bypasses that phase-shifting by directly manipulating chi. It's about controlling the energy that moves through the element, allowing it to freeze, solidify, or crystallize in a way that traditional waterbending cannot."
Wang Shi Tong seemed to process this for a moment. His wings rustled, and then he spoke again, his voice quieter but still full of ancient wisdom.
"Interesting." He considered the scroll in front of him, turning his head to the side thoughtfully. "You have unlocked an entirely new way of bending ice, one that draws upon multiple elemental forces. This… could change the way bending is perceived across the world."
The weight of his words sunk in. I wasn't just speaking about a new form of bending—I was offering new knowledge, something that could revolutionize the very understanding of elemental powers. I realized this was what he had been looking for, the price I had to pay for access to the knowledge within this library.
Wang Shi Tong's gaze softened slightly, and for a brief moment, I thought I saw a flicker of approval in his eyes. "Perhaps you are not like the others who have come before you. Perhaps you truly do seek knowledge, not for power, but for growth."
I took a step back, cautiously, unsure of how to proceed. But the giant owl spirit's wings folded in, signaling that he had come to a decision.
"You have offered me something… new. Something rare," Wang Shi Tong said, his voice growing louder and more resonant. "I will grant you access to the library and its knowledge, but remember, the price of knowledge is always paid. What you have shown me may lead to great power, but it also carries great responsibility."
I nodded, understanding the weight of his words. "I understand, Spirit. I do not seek power for the sake of power. I only wish to protect and to learn."
Wang Shi Tong studied me one last time before turning his immense body toward the shelves. "Then you may proceed. But remember this: Every question answered may lead to another, and every piece of knowledge gained will demand a price. Choose your path wisely, young one."
With that, Wang Shi Tong spread his wings, casting a shadow across the room as he flew upward and disappeared into the library's towering structure. His presence, once so overpowering, faded into the ether.
And I was left alone, standing before the vast collection of wisdom and secrets the world had to offer.
With Wang Shi Tong gone, the silence of the library wrapped around me like a thick cloak. I could still feel the weight of his presence, his warning lingering in my mind. Every piece of knowledge demanded a price. What price would I pay?
I pushed the thought aside. I had gained access—that was what mattered. Now, I needed to make the most of it.
I turned my gaze to the towering bookshelves, stretching endlessly into the darkness above. The vast collection of scrolls and tomes contained centuries—no, millennia—of wisdom. It was overwhelming. Where do I even start?
Then, as if answering my unspoken question, a small rustling sound came from below. I looked down to see the same knowledge-seeking fox spirit that had greeted me outside, now standing at my feet with expectant eyes.
"You gonna help me find what I'm looking for?" I asked, crouching down to pet its head again.
The fox chittered in response and turned, trotting down one of the endless aisles. I followed without hesitation.
My priorities were clear.
Enhance my bending. My True Ice Bending was still in development, and I needed to know if there were other lost techniques that could expand my abilities.
Spirit World access. If I could find a way to access the Spirit World, I might be able to further understand why Wang Shi Tong saw me as different from other humans.
Ancient war strategies. Knowledge of past wars could give me insight into how to handle the Fire Nation's invasion and possibly tip the scales.
The fox led me to a section where the scrolls were old, dust-covered, and barely touched. That was a good sign. The best knowledge was often the most forgotten.
I reached for the first scroll and unfurled it.
"The Art of Bending Beyond Limits"
The title alone made my pulse quicken. This was exactly the kind of thing I needed.
The text was written in an archaic script, but I could decipher most of it. It spoke of techniques that pushed bending past traditional boundaries, allowing benders to interact with their elements in ways not thought possible.
One section caught my attention immediately:
"To transcend the limitations of the mortal plane, a bender must attune themselves to their element in a way that surpasses mere control—one must become a part of the element itself."
That sounded familiar—like the state I reached when using True Ice Bending. It was more than just moving water or shaping ice. It was about understanding the fundamental nature of ice and becoming one with it.
I read further, my heart pounding.
"Firebenders who wish to ascend must find balance between rage and serenity, allowing their flames to burn not with anger, but with intent. In doing so, they can summon lightning not as a weapon of destruction, but as a conduit of pure energy."
That… that could be the key to improving my lightning bending!
I had only used it a handful of times, but the technique had always felt off—like I was forcing the energy instead of letting it flow. Maybe that was why it took so much effort. I was doing it wrong this whole time.
I took out a blank scroll and began copying the passage. If I was going to grow stronger, I would need to practice this immediately.
But before I could continue, the fox yipped and darted off into the darkness.
I frowned. "Hey, where are you going?"
No answer. The fox had vanished.
Then, I heard it.
A deep, reverberating thud from somewhere deeper in the library.
I tensed, my instincts flaring. That wasn't just the natural settling of an old structure. Something else was here.
Slowly, I rolled up the scroll, secured it in my bag, and took a cautious step forward. My footsteps were nearly silent as I moved between the shelves, my breath controlled.
Then, a voice.
Low. Foreign.
I couldn't make out the words, but it sent a chill down my spine.
I peeked around a corner, keeping my body pressed against the shelf.
And I saw them.
A group of masked figures—humans—rifling through the scrolls.
Intruders.
My body tensed as I watched them, their dark robes flowing as they moved through the aisles. They weren't ordinary bandits. Their movements were too precise, too calculated.
One of them held a scroll up to a flickering blue flame, seemingly searching for something.
I clenched my fists. They were looking for something specific.
I had no idea who they were, but one thing was certain:
I wasn't about to let them steal from Wang Shi Tong's library.
I stepped forward, making my presence known.
"I don't know who you are," I said, voice steady, "but you shouldn't be here."
The figures froze—then turned toward me in eerie unison.
For a moment, no one spoke. Then, one of them—a woman with piercing silver eyes—took a step forward.
"You are not the guardian of this place," she said smoothly. "Stand aside."
I smirked, cracking my knuckles. "Yeah, that's not happening."
She sighed, then gave a sharp nod.
The figures moved as one, fanning out around me.
Five against one.
I took a deep breath, summoning my chi. Lightning flickered at my fingertips.
One of the figures lunged first, sending a blast of sand toward me—Sandbenders!
I twisted, dodging, and retaliated with a precise bolt of lightning, striking the attacker square in the chest and sending them flying backward.
Another came at me from the left, their arm swirling as they bent hardened sand into a blade-like shape. I countered with a burst of fire, superheating the sand and turning it to molten glass before kicking the attacker away.
The silver-eyed woman watched with amusement.
"Impressive," she murmured. "But let's see if you can handle this."
She raised both arms, and the entire library floor shifted beneath my feet.
I barely had time to react before tendrils of sand shot toward me from all directions.
I leaped into the air, flipping backward and summoning a platform of ice beneath me, hovering just above the shifting sands.
Lightning crackled in my palms as I focused, channeling my energy. Then, with a deep breath, I let loose—a devastating arc of lightning that split the air, striking multiple targets at once.
The masked figures staggered, but the silver-eyed woman remained standing.
She smirked.
She had been waiting for me to do that.
Before I could react, she clapped her hands together, and a pulse of energy erupted from her form.
The next thing I knew, a massive sandstorm engulfed the entire library aisle, blinding me completely.
This fight was far from over.
The sandstorm swallowed me whole, its swirling mass of golden dust blotting out my vision. I could feel the grains scraping against my skin, stinging like tiny blades. This wasn't just sandbending—this was a battlefield tactic. The silver-eyed woman was using the storm to disorient me, to turn the battlefield into her domain.
But she had underestimated me.
I wasn't just a firebender. I wasn't just a lightningbender.
I was an icebender, too.
I took a deep breath, feeling the storm press in on me, feeling the heat in the air from all the friction of the sand whirling around. That was her mistake. Heat could be stolen.
I thrust my arms outward and called upon my True Ice Bending.
Immediately, a pulse of cold energy expanded from my core, stealing the heat from the air. The swirling sand slowed, then froze midair, turning into crystalline shards of ice that hung in suspension before falling to the ground in solid chunks.
The storm was over.
And in its place, I had transformed the library into a battlefield of frost and jagged ice.
The first sandbender didn't have time to react.
As soon as the ice formed, I launched forward, my feet sliding effortlessly over a frozen patch of floor I had just created. I ducked under a wild sand strike, planted my palm against the attacker's chest, and sent a devastating bolt of lightning straight through his heart.
His body convulsed violently before he collapsed, smoke rising from the gaping hole in his chest.
One down.
I turned just in time to see another sandbender hurl a wave of hardened sand at me, sharp as blades.
I countered by stomping my foot, sending a wave of icy spikes erupting from the ground. The frozen spears met the incoming sand blades mid-air, shattering them before they could reach me.
With a twist of my fingers, I sent another arc of lightning crackling through the ice, using the frozen water as a conductor. The electricity raced through the ground, reaching my attacker before he could dodge.
He screamed.
His body seized up before he fell backward, smoke rising from his lifeless form.
Two down.
The silver-eyed woman watched in silence, her expression unreadable.
"You're not just some rogue bender," she finally said, her voice cool, almost admiring. "You're something else entirely."
She was stalling.
I saw the flick of her wrist—a small motion that sent sand crawling beneath my feet, shifting the ground beneath me.
I jumped back just in time as a spike of solid rock erupted from the ground where I had been standing.
"Nice trick," I muttered, forming a jagged ice spear in my palm. "Too bad it won't save you."
I hurled the spear at her with deadly accuracy.
But she twisted her body with impossible grace, bending a swirl of sand around her midsection, redirecting the spear at one of her own men.
The poor fool didn't even have time to react as the ice pierced through his throat, his body crumpling instantly.
Three down.
The woman gave me a slow, calculated smile. She had sacrificed one of her own just to stay in the fight.
"Cold," she mused, her silver eyes gleaming. "I like that."
I didn't answer. I was already moving.The last two sandbenders charged at me together, their movements fluid as they attempted to flank me.
I needed to end this fast.
I slammed my hands together, focusing every ounce of my chi into my palms. The temperature in the library plummeted.
Then, with a sharp exhale, I unleashed a wave of ice, turning the very floor beneath us into a slick, frozen sheet. The two sandbenders, caught mid-sprint, lost their footing instantly, their bodies slamming hard against the icy ground.
I didn't give them a chance to recover.
I whipped my hand forward, sending a sharp tendril of razor-thin ice slashing across one of their throats.
His eyes widened in shock before he collapsed, blood staining the frozen ground.
Four down.
The last one scrambled backward, his eyes filled with pure terror. I almost pitied him. Almost.
I raised my fingers, lightning crackling between them, and before he could even beg for mercy—
I struck.
His body jolted, twisted, then collapsed in a smoking heap.
Five down.
And then, it was just me and her.
She was already retreating.
As soon as her last man fell, she knew the fight was over.
She turned on her heel, summoning a powerful gust of sand, using it as cover as she leaped backward, propelling herself toward the exit.
I wasn't about to let her go that easily.
I extended my arm, focusing everything I had left into one final attack.
A bolt of pure lightning exploded from my palm, cutting through the sandstorm like a blade through silk.
I saw her twist midair, but she wasn't fast enough.
The lightning struck her dead center in the stomach.
She screamed as the energy tore through her, sending her spiraling through the air before she crashed onto the floor near the entrance.
For a moment, I thought she was dead.
But then she moved.
With great effort, she pushed herself onto her knees, her breathing ragged. Her hand pressed against the charred wound on her stomach, her silver eyes burning with a mix of pain and fury.
"You got me," she admitted, her voice strained. "But you won't catch me."
And before I could reach her, she vanished in a swirl of sand, her body dissolving into the storm as she made her escape.
I stood there, panting, the smell of burned bodies and ozone filling the air.
The battle was over.
But something told me this wasn't the last I'd see of her.
I exhaled slowly, steadying my breathing.
The library was a mess—ice-covered floors, shattered shelves, and scorched bodies scattered around me.
I could feel Wang Shi Tong's presence looming nearby, watching.
I wasn't sure if he would be angry about the destruction or pleased that I had defended his library.
Either way, I had no regrets.
I had killed those sandbenders without hesitation.
And I had left a mark on the silver-eyed woman that she would never forget.
Lightning scars didn't fade easily.
I had no doubt that the next time we met, she would come for revenge.
But that was fine.
I'd be ready for her.
I straightened my back, looking up at the endless rows of knowledge still waiting for me.
Now, it was time to get what I came for.