A Recognition of Shadows

[Rikugurl]

The moonlight shimmered over the ocean like an elegant dance. It was full and playful, enjoying sharing its power to the water below. I love it when the moon is full and so do my people. The fires in the lanterns keep the area warm and lighted, illuminating the snow that falls every now and again. This place is cold but it is our home.

The Northern Water Tribe.

It was a city made of ice and located near the North Pole. People walking about the snowy paths wore deep blue outfits that were fitting and warm with a sense of aristocrat style. Some young children were pulling on the reigns of a young Buffalo-yak to bring it in for the night but the largest group were found by the icy edge of the city, moving as one in training. It was the prefect night for young benders to train but there was one that was absent from the meeting. That would be me.
Prince Isa.

Up on a taller building of ice, a young boy stood at a balcony, looking out over the city. His hair was a brilliant blue that fell around his face while the back stood straight up. He too wore deep blue robes but over his heart, was a symbol of a crescent. He was known as Prince Isa, the future chief of this tribe. His father was dubbed as the Chief after Chief Arnook's death for he was one of the best and strongest Fisherman in the tribe. Though he was not a bender himself, his kin were both blessed with the talent. Unfortunately, no matter how strong the man was, the ocean took him a full moon after his second child's birth. It was noble of him to be claimed by the sea but it brought some worry to the tribe. They were going to hand the leadership to the sailors wife but it was quickly ruled out by her own son.

He would not let his mother rule.

Instead, the young boy decided to take the role as the Chief of the Northern Water Tribe until his sister came to age to take it for her own. He loved his home but he knew he would not be a great Chief. Instead, he planned on becoming the general of the Warriors and perhaps help his sister as a Chief's Adviser. Of course... if his baby sister did not want to take the role of the Chief, he wouldn't make her. This was a peaceful city and important one at that too. This was why he did not wish for his publicly corrupted mother to rule over it.

There was a sudden cry of a baby coming from down the walkway, making the young man look back at a room that was open, warm light pouring out. That was another flaw in his mother. She didn't care much of her children. Isa left his spot at the balcony, walking down the ice path with ease until he came to the room and entered it. It was richly decorated with lanterns and beautiful barrels of water. There was a large crib in the center of the room in which the crying and shifting was coming from, making the boy walk over to peer inside. What he saw was an infant girl, struggling in her sheets as her face was a bright red and her hair a bright blue.

"Ah, Aqua... baby sister... do not cry..." The boy hushed as he reached down, pushing some of her soft baby hairs away from her face. This did not calm her though and it was uncertain where her mother was at the time for feeding. For now, he knew he would have to preoccupy her. He slowly backed away, standing on a deep blue mat before closing his eyes. His leg slowly moved and his hands came forwards slowly and began to move in a slow motion. As he moved his arms and body, the four barrels of water started to shake before four orbs of water rose, dipping slightly before collecting as a whole. They were slowly moved around the crib, catching the baby's eyes and her crying ceased.

The water orbs came closer, swirling slowly above the little girl like a mobile. Deep eyes opened slowly, still concentrating but his fingers spread open, making the water burst apart into small little orbs that glistened in the light of the moon. This dazzled the girl as she watched, forgetting her troubles as it slowly lulled her to sleep. When Isa could feel the calm nature in the room, his fingers came back together as so did the water. His arms started to retract, pulling the water away from the crib and back into the barrels. The water splashed around a bit, showing that this was not perfected but near close.

His master would be proud.
"Good night, sister."


Years Later


"Heheheehehehehee!" The sound of laughter filled the small field as a little crab scampered across the died grass. It seemed to move so fast that one would think it was running for its life. That wasn't the reason though, for the being chasing after it had no intentions of harming it. Hand made shoes pressed down on the grass and as they lift, the blades of grass pulled at the slight amount of wind. Light clothes flapped in the breeze as the boy rushed after the hermit crab, all the way to the edge of the field. Unlike most fields, this one cut off short. It was slightly enclosed by a wall and when boy reached it, the crab climbed through a crack and started to climb down the cliff.

That's right. A cliff.

The meadow was cut off and nothing was below it but the sky. Blue eyes cast over the edge, seemly disappointed as he watched the crab disappear. He shook off his loss, figuring he was never suppose to catch it, slowly looking out at the vast sky before him. A wide smile crept over his face when he felt the cool breeze pressing against his face and bald head. he never thought he would get use to that feeling at first but over time, he forgot how it felt with wind through his hair.

DONG!

DONG!

DONG!

The young boy quickly looked back at where he had rushed from, seeing a large, ancient building that had been modified over the years. This place held a lot of history, both good and bad over the centuries. The best of news was that it was restored to its original beauty when the monks were able to finally call the temple home again. Now, this was his home.
"It must be----"

DONG!

"UT!" Blue eyes blinked as he heard the fourth and last call of the bell, a little startled. Three rings signified a meeting of sorts, whether it be time for food or lessons. It could be time for mass meditation or just a simple announcement. However, four rings were much more important. Four rings signified a test. A very important test that all nations gave when someone very important passed away. When they pass away... they are reborn. He really didn't understand why there was a test here though. It wasn't their time...

The boy shook his head before quickly rushing back to the large building and through the large, ancient hallways. As he made his around, turning corners and moving up the stairs, he passed a set of wooden wind chimes that played loudly when he moved by them. He was about to cross another hallway when he stopped, catching something in the corner of his eye. A door. A door that had always been closed was slightly open. This door was never open because only very special people could actually open it. Slowly, his feet moved carefully over the hard floor, walking to the door without a sound before peaking inside. It was dark with only a little light coming from within. Carefully, the boy looked around to make sure no one spotted him before quickly sneaking inside.

His steps were silent as he made his way through the small hallway, marveling silently at the new area he had discovered. Until he reached the end of the hallway and looked out, seeing where the light was coming from. The roof was open and the round room had what seemed to be a hundred statues against the walls. In the center... was another boy. "Ah!" A boy he recognized. Forgetting that he probably shouldn't be here, he seemed to glide down the stairs, hitting the ground softly before rushing up to the other boy who seemed to be around the same age. "Soran!" He came up to the boy's side, looking at him in some wonderment. His excited look faded when he realized that his usually overly happy friend wasn't looking himself. "O-oh... that's why there were rings... huh? It's your day of testing."

The boy only seemed to be worried for a moment before his smile reappeared. "Heh... I kind of hope you pass because I'm a bit nervous when it comes my time!"


"GET READY!" A rough voice called over a very dry piece of land. A leather patch was fitted over a scared socket as the other close by was bleached from the sun. The air was hot and the skin of the man was tanned by it's gentle kiss. Long black and slitted grey hair was pulled up in a half pony tail and pressed against his tanned back, wet around the edges from collecting sweat. It shifted quickly as the man pulled his arm up into the arm, almost looking like he was about to flex his muscle arms to show off but it stood still. His right leg suddenly lifted and slammed into the ground in front of his left foot. This caused a large chunk of earth spring up into the air and as it did, his left leg came up to his waist and he kicked it out, making the rock shoot off in a straight shot.

The chunk of earth was sailing to another tanned man, though much more younger than the one who had just bended.

[Reno]

Harmony.

Soran always liked that word. The first time he ever heard it was from Monk Kazu, his main caretaker here in the Northern Temple and one of the top monks. He still remembered that conversation...

"Alright your turn Soran!" A young boy said, tossing him a ball. It was a simple lightweight clay ball, hollow inside with holes in it like Swiss cheese. It was usually used to play Air Ball out on the fields - but none of them knew much air bending (and more importantly none of them had the balance) to play the game yet. Usually it was played by the adolescent airbenders; the rules of the game was to balance on a small field of wooden poles and use airbending to get the ball through the goal situated at the end of each field. "Remember, don't let it fall! I choose... Kazu!"
"Kazu!" The ball was thrown into the air and he took a breath. "Lazu!" He blew and the ball flew back into the air and came down. "Mazu! Nazu. Oazu." With each rhyme had to blow the ball back into the air with airbending alone. The purpose of the game was to go through the entire alphabet back to where you started without letting the ball hit the ground. Sora was always the one who got the farthest, but even he hadn't made it through all 26 letters.
"Pazu-"
"Soran!!"
The blue-eyed child jumped in surprise, not noticing the ball coming back down for him until "OW!" It smacked him right in the head!

"Come here Soran." Monk Kazu said strictly; rubbing his forehead, the boy was quick to do so, following after the taller older male dressed entirely in orange and yellow ropes. Unsure what he had done he stared at the ground nervously, dragging his feet as the other monk brought him to a secluded area in the west wing that overlooked the mountain range. For a moment, his mentor said nothing, the master simply sighing and shutting his eyes, feeling the wind currents the unpredictable calm of it seeming to relax the man.
"What was that you were playing?"
"Um... Rhyme ball."
"And the purpose of the game is to rhyme a person's name while keeping the ball in the air?"
"Uh-huh. It's harder then it seems! It takes a loooot of thinking."
"Soran, do you know the importance of a name?"
"Umm..." He paused, rubbing his bald head "It makes it... easy for letters to be sent?"
His mentor quirked a smile and shook his head. "I suppose that is one benefit. But no. A name is an identity."
"I-Den...tity..." The boy tried out the new, unfamiliar word.
"Yes, the central being of yourself."
"Oh, like our spirit form!"
"Hmm... something like that yes. Every name has an important meaning, something that should never be taken away. Your name is like your honor; when you play a game and tear apart a name, it is rather cruel."
"Oooooh.... I am sorry master Monk Kazu..."

The other seemed none too perturbed, but smiled instead. "Kazu... it means harmony."
"Harmony...? Like... peace, right?"
"Preciously. My mother gave me that name because I was born peacefully, my cries quiet and my spirit gentle. She knew I would become a man who found enlightenment."
The boy tilted his head, leaning his chin on the wall and looking outwards. "What about... my name?"
"Yours? It means 'A Part of the Sky'. When we discovered you, you stared at us without fear, your eyes clear and blue like the one part of the sky still unclouded."
"...Harmony."
"Yes... I suppose it is very much like harmony."

His name... he understood better now that he was older. He learned it in their lesson about the weather. He was the calm of a storm - where the clouds where parted and revealed the sky above. The one place left in the world still at peace while the rest was discordant. He believed that meant he would be precisely like Monk Kazu - always at peace.

So why, why now when he looked up at these faces he did not know but seemed familiar, did he only feel chaos within his own spirit? His Chakra felt blocked by his fear, his energies twisted just as the wise Gurus warned may happen in times of great turmoil. Bending, he had been told, had a lot to do about keeping these Chakra gates open, or the strength of his bending will weaken.

But he could not help it. He He felt little at ease and had no one to turn to for-
"Soran!"
Or... perhaps... he did?
He glanced over, seeing the blonde-eyebrowed boy hurrying to his side, seeming excited, but he could not share in his joy. He managed to crack a smile though at the last statement. "You're nervous Ventus? How do you think I feel? It is my day!" He placed a hand on his stomach, where it seemed to be turning upside down. "It's like a Kangaroo-Rabbit climbed down my stomach and is trying to hop out!"


A slight breeze was rustling the trees and overtime, harsh winds had bent and broken them, making their branches twisted and gnarled and their trunks leaning like an old man who has worked too hard for too long. But unlike them, the young boy stood proud and unmovable, his blue eyes tracked the movements of the other across the clearing, trying to predict his attack. This was a test of will and immovability; he could not move from his spot as he faced all the the Earth-bender could throw to him.

He saw the movement of his foot and tensed, ready.

He felt the earth rock as the boulder was pulled from the earth, the bender obviously one of great strength, before it was shot towards him so fast the air whistled around it. His fingers bunched into fists and he swing powerfully and fearlessly towards the flying rock, and it met his fist. Instead of the sound of crunching bones and a screaming child, their was a sound like thunder as the rock burst apart, dust and pebbles flowing in every direction without a pause. He lowered his hand and grinned cockily. "That the best you got?"

Meanwhile, under some trees that provided ample rest from the burning sun, yellow eyes gazed upon them with unnerving stillness. Neither feared being spied on for the creature was not human. He was four-legged, with a glorious and thick black coat and a long, fluffed tail. He had a fearsome row of teeth - 42 deadly fangs in fact - and large clear white claws nearly masked under the monstrous paws. The most prominent feature of this being though was neither his feet nor his mouth, but his head, where two long horns jutted out from either temple and forward nearly two feet, passing his snout.

A Bull-Wolf.

Often they fearsome, aggressive creatures, easily enraged and easily thrilled by a fight. They say no bull-wolf pack can be more than four or five members, because too many just grew into the chaos of battle. Most journeyed alone because of this unfortunate aspect of their highly territorial and competitive natures. But this one, found as a pup long ago and raised by a caring hand, became a loyal friend to the young brunette in-training. Never had anyone seen one so calm.

[Rikugurl]

There was a lighthearted giggle from the boy that was actually the same height as the other. They were considered to be abnormally short for their age though not enough to be classified as dwarfs. This was one of the many reasons why these two ended up as such good friends. Besides their love of harmony, peace and the feel of the breeze, they were both here alone, without anyone in connection with them. It was lonely sometimes if you come to that path in your meditation when you realize that there is no one here that can guide you but a mere stranger and your own self. They were still young and convincing, knowing one day that these thoughts would vanished when they became more spiritual. They were never alone... but it was easier said than done.

"Don't worry Soran... you're in a good place right now." The young boy walked in front of the other, wearing less colorful robes than the monks. "If you are the next Avatar... you can travel! You said you always wanted to go on an adventure. Aaand... if you're not, your Kangaroo-Rabbit will leave you alone!" He giggled again, chucking into his hand. "Either way, I'll still be your friend. No matter what!" Slowly, he turned, his steps still silent as he looked around the room. All these statues were of the ancient Avatars. Were these people really his friend? Was Soran really the reincarnation of all these great people? He wouldn't really be surprised.

"We should really be going. It's not good to make people wait, you know?" The boy turned around, walking pass the other to head back up the stairs. When he got halfway, he paused, glancing over his shoulder to see that Soran had not moved. "Soran?"


As the dust cleared, the older man grinned. "Very good nephew!" He called across the area. "Your father will be very proud and perhaps your mother shall not kill me if I bring you back to the village in one piece." He chuckled, glancing to his side to see a small village down below the hill where they were training. "Now..." He looked back, his single eye looking at the younger boy hard. "One last test and when you are finished, if you can make it, I want you to immediately throw an offensive move towards me. If you stall, I will send out another wave of attacks. The earth is an element of substance but as a bender, you need the power to make it your own. The earth is all around us and even though, you mustn't lose your focus. Sometimes defending is stronger than offending."

The man took a stance, though it didn't seem much like one. The sounds of the birds above in the trees made the situation calm and unnerving. There were no vibrations at their feet and all was still. Strong arms suddenly moved, his fingers making an 'L' shape. It seemed like whatever he was doing, he was pushing on a strong force that wasn't even there. It was slow until it was released, making the man lower to the ground more, his feet planted solid in the soil. His back leg swung behind him and his torso moved slowly before he spun quickly, pulling his hands towards his abdomen before he faced the young boy again. Suddenly, a wave a pebbles picked up that was made from the boulder and shot it out towards the youth.

It was not an attack, but a distraction. As the pebbles shot at the boy, the man raised his arm in a powerful jab and another boulder came out of the ground before he kicked his leg out, making it go flying. When his leg came down, two more boulders came up and he kicked towards them, sending them off towards his nephew as well. When his leg landed again, his kicked his other foot back, making yet another boulder raise which was once again kicked. Lastly, a flip was done and when strong feet came back to the ground, three boulders were pulled up and kicked off. For balance, the older man stepped back, his leg grounding to the soil which released one last boulder that was the largest of them all and it was kicked out but as his body lowered back towards the ground, his hands swung around him and the large boulder was pulled by gravity, swinging around the youth to sail at him from another angle than the rest.

[Reno]

There was a soft sigh passing the boy's lips, looking at the last four statues that had been created over the last five centuries. Five... because one had lain dormant for nearly 100 years.

He knew of Avatar Roku, the last fire-bending avatar. He was the Avatar who died from the Fire Lord's treachery and greed for power. That was when Avatar Aang was born... and then later was frozen in an iceberg, not to awaken for 100 years. While he slept, the Great War happened and the Fire Nation attacked, nearly wiping out the entire Air Nation and buckling down the ranks of the Earth and Water kingdoms. It was said Aang was able to stop and win the war... and he had been only twelve.

Next were the following water and earth Avatars - both female. Avatar Arlyn and Avatar Ila. He didn't know very much on their history...

He swallowed hard looking tentatively at the blank spot beside Avatar Ila - where the fire-born avatar was meant to go. Was it because of the crimes they committed that they would be omitted this cycle...? Is that why the Air Nation was looking, despite it not being their turn in the cycle? But no... what balance would that create? How could they omit it?

Or was it simply because... it was of a person who never knew his history?

He swallowed nervously and shut his eyes, hearing his friend. Why... Why did it start with him?

His heart beat a terrible tantrum before he clasped his hands and lowered in a deep bow to the statues. He straightened and nervously followed after his friend, hoping beyond hope... that he failed the test.


Terra took in a deep breath, getting ready for his Uncle's attacks, knowing this was not going to be easy. If he survived, pff! At the wayside, the bull-wolf laid his head on his paws, but his eyes stayed ever attentive on the battle. His ears twitched as the ground shook and it began.

The brunette was caught a bit off guard from the pebbles, shutting his eyes as they barraged him fairly harmlessly, but they snapped open when the felt the massive shift of rock and ground, knowing an attack was coming. He faced the boulder head on and rose his foot, kicking it strongly and making it burst open just like before.

He saw the other two coming and was kick to raise both hands, seeming to catch one and the other and shoving them aside needlessly, both flying away and falling into the ground and side-stepped the fourth, letting it pass harmlessly. before he dropped to the ground, planting his hands on the floor for balance as his leg swung out, seeming to sweep in a circle as he kicked all three boulders in a row.

He quickly got to his feet, thinking he was safe since he saw nothing else coming for him... but a sharp bark of warning snapped him to attention, seeing the shadow moving over him as he looked to his left. He had been so certain everything would come from the front, he wasn't guarding his left or right flank. And now a large boulder was nearly over him, making his heart thunder in panic.

Thinking fast, he slapped his hands together A thunderous noise occurred as the boulder split right in half, flying by either side of him, but the wind of the movement an either side, and his poor stance from when he got up from his drop kick, easily knocked him over and he landed on his ass - safe... but unaccomplished. He wasn't supposed to ever fall in these exercises. An earthbender never lost his stance. "Ah fuck." He grumbled from the floor and sighed.

[Rikugurl]

The two boys hurried out of the sanctuary and were cautious not to be found coming from a place that they shouldn't be. They hurried down the hallway where the blonde eyebrow boy was headed to in the first place, up a spiral, three story high staircase and to another hallway that was open for the air to blow through. The wooden chimes rang gently as they passed, coming to a large door that was pushed open... only for the whole population of Air nomads to look back at them. The two grew very red faces, obvious late. How did they all get here so fast!?

The eldest monk smiled as he bowed to them. "As I knew it. You two are always a distraction in the wind. It is both a noble and shameful thing on such an important time of day. Please, join us." He offered, making some of the other young boy chuckle but were hushed by the elders. The door was closed and the lighter skin boy found a vacant area on the ground to sit on while the slightly tanner walked up to Elder Monk Dhargey and his personal trainer, Monk Kazu.
The boy, known as Ventus, was of a wild spirit as the monks said. He was easily distracted like the water but it wit the ways of the wind; forever changing. He was on his knees like the rest of the boys but he was more curious as he looked over their heads to watch what was going on.

When he finally got a good look... everyone stood for the ceremony. "Whaa!!" Quickly, he scampered up and realized that he wasn't going to see anything over the taller pupils.


"Hahahahaha!!" A bellowing laugh came from the scarred man, seeing the boy twist on the ground. His muscles relaxed and he pulled himself out of his stance, slowly walking over to his nephew. As he did, he shook his finger at the beast who had warned the boy. "No cheating. He will never learn that way." He heard a gruff and growl but ignored it as he came up to the boy, extending his hand out to help him up. "Very good but not perfect. You still have some things to learn." His voice was lighthearted, obviously showing he was a kind and thoughtful trainer. He pulled the boy off, watching him dust himself off some before wrapping his arm around the bawd shoulder. "Let's go have some tea."

The two walked back down to the village, the beast following close behind. As they came down to the huts and made their way around some, their walk slowed when they both saw a pale woman standing in a doorway, her hands on her hips and her face not looking any too happy. The tutor pulled his arm away from the boy's shoulder as they walked up to see because he knew what she was about to do... and low and behold, he couldn't help but smirk as she pulled her son close. "Briag, how many times do I have to tell you that I don't want my son bending!?"
"Ida~~ Your son is very gifted. There's no need to waste such---"
"He's not wasting anything. If anything, I'm wasting from fear!"
The man stood silent, his jaw shifting from the tension.

The blue eyed gem of a woman looked away, pulling her son closer. "You know that... that if they find out he's a good bender... they will take him away, Braig. The Fire Nation is near the brink again and I don't know about you but I enjoy my freedom. If they don't find their Avatar soon...." She drifted off, the older man knowing where she was going with this. It was true. The Avatar was suppose to be reborn in the Fire Nation but they had yet to be found. Hundreds of children had been tested and all had failed. At first, the Fire Lord knew that his kingdom was vast and it would take some time but he was losing patients. They too wondered what the young Air nomad thought. Were they going to be omitted from this cycle because of their history?

No one knew but what everyone did know was that they were going to find the new Avatar... no matter what.

[Reno]

Soran grew nervous at all the attention, fidgeting as people stood and gazed upon him with eyes never wavering. He looked up at the monks, not able to hide his disturbance at the whole meeting.
"Soran," His mentor said with kindness, seeing the turmoil in his eyes. "Be calm. The test is simple and whether you pass or fail, you will still remain you."
The boy bowed his bald head nervously, but gave a tiny nod. Kazu gave a smile, before glancing back at the other three monks and nodded while the Elder Monk next to him explained precisely what the test entailed. The test to discover if Soran... was the Avatar.

Three hands rose, airbending slicing in the air at three sacks above their heads. They burst open without pause and a simple gust from the three spread out the items all over the grand floor, decorating it with so many colors, shapes and sizes. There had to be at least a thousand, maybe more! All of them were small enough to fit in the palm of one's hand.

...All of them... were toys. Toys from every different nation, collected here.

Soran's eyes widened as the Elder Monk explained to him and the crowd that he had to choose four items out of the lot. He looked up at him, wondering if he was being serious. The four avatar relics... were toys? He glanced behind him, blushing a bit as some of the younger airbender giggled and laughed.

"So... I just... have to choose four? And... if I'm wrong I get to keep them?" He said slowly, feeling a bit more at ease. There was no way he was going to get this right!
Kazu smiled again and nodded. "Choose wisely and patiently Soran." The two monks moved aside, revealing the cluttered floor.

The boy tilted his head, but walked forward, circling the floor carefully. He knelt down some and reached out, picking up a few toys, looking at them and trying to figure out what some of them were for before setting them back. His eyes caught sight of an air nation toy though and smiled, snatching it up. It was a simple item, a wooden toy with a string at the bottom and a fan on the end. He had heard of these! He pulled the string, chuckling as the propeller at the end spiraled off and flew in the air. He caught it and placed it back together.

Well it would be something fun to keep.

No one made a reaction at his choice as he continued around, hearing no gasps and no surprise. Certainly if he had chosen right there would of been some reaction! Feeling completely relaxed now, knowing that he had already failed, he made his next choices easily. The next item he picked up was sitting right on top of a small pile: a wooden turtle that had a sparkling shell. It was kind of pretty... and he hoped maybe if he ever met a cute girl airbender maybe he could give it to her as a gift. Girls liked pretty things.

At another edge of the gaggle of items he lent down, rummaging around some as he found something good. He was about to pick up a miniature ball made of glass, thinking it was neat the way the blue inside glittering like an eye, but paused, seeing a strange tail sticking out from under some of the toys. He gripped it and pulled it out seeing the wooden hog-monkey with a fierce face staring back at him. It was nicely carved and looked pretty cool too!

He decided to keep it instead of the marble and starting to circle again and again, trying to find a fourth item. Some of the airbenders behind him he heard getting a little impatient, so he nearly just reached down and picked something at random, just so this whole thing could be over and done with.

And then he saw it. Right in the middle of the whole floor, laying atop of a few other items. It had a wooden handle and circular face, presumably made of animal cloth that was died a nice reddish-orange with a circular pattern upon it; almost like a dreamcatcher but instead it of feathers it had a string with a plastic bead hanging from the edges. A clapper drum!

He smiled and took a breath before blowing, a powerful gust of air whooshing the toys everywhere and catching the lightweight one up, bouncing it high in the air. He was able to blast it towards him with another breath of air and caught it easily as it came to him. He looked at it then spun the handle between his thumb and forefinger, chuckling as it applauded him with a strong sound.


The bull-wolf snorted in irritation, laying down his head as he was chastised. His master merely sighed, smiling some as he was helped up. Every day he was getting better and stronger and he knew with his uncle as a teacher, he would learn even more. "Alright," He said, following his uncle. "Come on Atteris!"

Triangular ears perked and the bull-wolf's tongue lolled before he got to his feet hurrying after flanking his master's other side protectively. Up close, he was quite a massive height, his head tall enough to nuzzle against his master's stomach if he wished and his master, Terra, was very tall already though still young. Both of them still had some growing to do of course.

When they reached their home though, someone was waiting for them. And that person made Terra sigh - even roll his eyes - as he was brought close for a hug. "Moooom..." He whined gently, but went ignored as his mother argued with his uncle.

But as he heard her explanation, he scoffed and pulled away from her. She just didn't get it? Neither of his parents were earthbenders. When he was discovered to be one his father couldn't of been prouder... and his mother couldn't of been more panicked. But even still none of them understood... understood how good it felt to use his bending, how it made him feel at peace and how exhilarating it was. It was a part of who he was... and it seemed on his uncle truly grasped the importance of that.
"That's not fair mom! I'm an earthbender, you can't just take that away from me because some stupid Firebenders are busy blowing smoke!"

[Rikugurl]

Throughout the whole test, Ventus struggled to see over shoulders. He really wanted to see what his best friend was picking, trying to see if he could possible guess the items he would pick. However, he was in no shape to push and shove for that wasn't the way he was disciplined. Oh now he wished he was a brutish bender! After awhile of waiting, hoping up and down some, he starting to think maybe he would be forgiven if he pushed the other disciples out of the way using air. Yea!

Just as he was about to, he paused, hearing that Soran was finished with his test.

The young boy walked up to the Elder, showing him the toys he had chosen. "Ah, I see. A clay turtle symbolizes the Water Tribe; a fan symbolizes the Air Nomads; a wooden monkey represents the Earth Kingdom and the wooden hand drum represents the Fire Nation. These are the items you have chosen?" The boy nodded, making all eyes go to him again in wonderment.
"Young Soran," The elder began, "When Avatar Aang, known as The Last Airbender, came face with death, he created scrolls of Airbending. With these scrolls, those who were born with the yearn to bend air found them and Airbenders were reborn much like Aang was. Avatars are not only powerful but they are the balance of our world and the one beyond in which we cannot see. These toys you have chosen were once the toys of previous Avatars."

That was when all the reactions came to play.
"W-w-w-w-w-what...." The blonde eyebrow boy blinked, not believing his ears.

"Soran... will you maintain harmony in the world?" The elder monk asked, giving a subtle look to the young boy.


"TERRA!" The woman called as her son spoke back to her. It was very unlikely for him to do such a thing. He was well known around the small village of his noble attire and peaceful appearance. She was shocked that her son was suddenly speaking out of place. Her blue eyes narrowed, glaring up at the boy's uncle thinking that he could clearly of made the boy think too much and gave him such a tone, before looking back at him. "You are speaking madness. You have read many book and I refuse to believe that you have not come across the writings of the past war that the Fire Nation had announced. How many people were killed under their power? How they conquered nearly half of this world? How they nearly wiped out a whole nation!? Do not be foolish to think that history will repeat itself. Don't think that if you get yourself into the fire that the Avatar will pull you right out!"

"IDA!"
The woman paused, glaring back up at the tanned man who had called on her.
"Let the boy do as he wishes. It is his life; his destiny. Let him choose what he wants to do. He is the only one who can have the last say in things. He is a great Earthbender and if he suppresses it, it will be a waste for the Earth Kingdom. Whether he decides to listen to you or not, it will not change the Fire Nation's mind any. If anything, if they blow their top again, Terra will be skilled enough in his talent that he will be able to protect himself... and his family."

[Reno]

The young monk walked over to the Eldest, showing his discoveries. Just toys. Average ordinary toys. He began to grow a little uneasy though... when he heard the elder tell him each toy was from a different nation. It was... it was just luck is all...

He listened respectfully to the other though, remembering the tale of Avatar Aang. Without his care to write down the art of airbending, their culture, and their customs, as well as his own gifted children passing along that knowledge, the nation would of been lost forever. It had slowly built up in the past two hundred years, growing to it's formal glory and even to this day, every airbender still learned under the scrolls and teaching of the past avatar.

But he didn't see what this had to do with-
"Avatars are not only powerful but they are the balance of our world and the one beyond in which we cannot see. These toys you have chosen were once the toys of previous Avatars.

Blue eyes went wide.

"Soran... will you maintain harmony in the world?"

The boy stared up at his elder, unblinking and unseeing for a long time, before he wordlessly stared down at the toys like they had betrayed him. He was.... he was....? No... he couldn't be... He wasn't a... a fire-nation child!
"Hey! Soran!" One of the elder airbenders called, spinning off of his glider and landing in front of the other. It was Niyol. "You know, Erjon told me you're an orphan!"
"I-I..." Soran hesitated, looking uncertain. How did he...?
"Back off Niyol!" Ventus said in a strong voice - though it was high-pitched.
"I'm just saying is all!"
"Well don't call him mean names!"
Niyol spared the unintelligent bender a glance and sighed. "I wasn't. Don't you know what an orphan is?"
"Something you made up!" The bald once-blonde said, stamping his foot.
"No dummy! An orphan is a kid who doesn't have any parents!"
"...None of us do!" The boy pointed out wisely.
"Yeah you do dummy!" Ventus got hit on the head with the elder's glider. "They don't live in the temple. You just haven't seen them in forever cause you're here, being an airbender! But orphans never had parents. They... they gave them up or died and stuff! Heh, lucky he was an airbender - no way the monks would have taken him if he was like.. fire nation or something!"
"That's not true! You're just being mean! Don't listen to him Soran! .... Soran?" Ven called as he looked, noting the brunette was no longer by his side. "SORAN?!"

"I.... I-I...." The boy shook his head taking a few steps away, feeling a wave of emotion sweep over him as the toys clattered to the marble floor, forgotten but unbroken. "I can't, I'm sorry." He turned and ran from the room in a hurry, ignoring the calls of his name as he rushed from the room.

Later, he would be found in the statue room once again, sitting in front of Avatar Roku's statue, tears streaking his face as he looked up at it with questions turning endlessly in his mind. The main one was... who was he? Really?


Terra opened his mouth, trying to tell his mother of course he had read all about the war. He also had read all about what happened after the war. Things had changed in the past two decades! they truly wouldn't be so foolish as to start ANOTHER war, not when the world had finally started to heal and anger and qualms were finally being laid to rest among all the countries. The Fire Lord wasn't THAT stupid, was he?
Ugh, if only people could live forever. The Fire Lord turning Aang's time had always been reasonable and kind.

Luckily, he didn't have to get into more trouble for speaking out of turn, for his uncle was standing up for him instead. He glanced back at him, giving him a grateful smile before looking back at his mother expectantly. He may not be the greatest earthbender who ever lived, but he did know the earth kingdom always stood strongest in opposition to the fire nation and would continue to do so if they had to. She didn't need to keep worrying about him.

[Rikugurl]

All the elder monk and young Airbenders watched as the boy rushed off, declining the true as if it was never there. Some of the young boys called out, wondering why he was leaving. The only person who really understood was his blonde browed boy. His face was much like the others, full of concern by for different reasons.

"It must be a new tradition that young Airbending Avatars run away..." The elder monk sighed softly. His hands started to form around in a circle and the toys were all collected, being placed back into their rightful bag. Slowly, he looked back at the others who were still unsettled. "Young Airbenders... please retire to your quarters for the night. There will be no lessons this evening for a council will be called." All the pupils bowed before shuffling away quietly but the short boy stood still for a bit, seeing the elders gather around and spoke in secrets. A frown came over his face before he slowly turned and walked out as well. He followed the others down the spiraled stairs, ignoring their curious whispered and when they all seemed to disburse in different directions, the young boy found himself standing in front of the large doors that entered into the sanctuary.

Again, it was opened a crack and the boy sneaked in, heading down the hallway and easily picking up the soft sounds of sobbing. His face twisted as he came to view, seeing his friend sitting at the base of a statue, his shoulder shifting in an obvious act. He hesitated for a moment, unsure if he should bother the other but he knew as a friend, he needed to. Slowly he walked down the stairs into the dome room and headed over to Soran. When he reached his side, he slowly sat down next to him, hardly making a sound as he did. "I...I'm sorry. This is all my fault. I brought you bad karma, Soran..."


Ida frowned, crossing her arms and looking at the ground some. Unlike young Terra, his uncle knew what was really keeping his mother so protective. She was actually not from this kingdom at all. She was born and raised in the Southern Water Tribe and he was sure she heard the horrors of the Raid that had happened there from the Fire Nation. She still had a hard time adjusting to the idea that the Earth Kingdom was vast and powerful.

There was also some tension between her and himself. When it was discovered that Terra was a Earthbender instead of a Waterbender, he had made a comment that he wished never came out of his mouth. Something along the lines that Earth was more powerful than Water. Ever since then, they never saw eye to eye.
Ida was an intelligent lady though and she knew that it was two, no, three against one. Her husband would see no harm if he continued his training. "You'll go easy on him and watch out for him then?"
"Will will protect him... though train him to protect himself if that's what he truly wants."

[Reno]

There was a sniffle, the brunette rubbing a teary eye before he glanced at the bald boy beside him, shaking his head. "No, of course you didn't. I have a feeling... bad karma and Avatars go together." He sniffled, rubbing his other eye and bowing his head, placing them on his knees. For a time there was silence, both of them sitting and wandering in their cluttered thoughts. Meditation would do little good for the once-brunette.

"Avatar Roku..." Soran finally mumbled, his voice a bit thick and clotted. "He was the last firebending Avatar. They say... he was kind and wise..." Blue eyes fell to the marble floor. "I wonder if I grew up where I was meant to... would I be like him?"


Terra looked between the two, seeing the agreement, before smiling and suddenly hugging his mother in his exuberance. "Thanks mom!" He hurried past her with Atteris, calling over his shoulder, "I'll make the tea!" He didn't normally of course - that was his mother's job. But he was feeling generous. Not that he didn't do his fair share of chores...

He just liked to skip out on a few.... all the time.

[Rikugurl]

Blue eyes widened, slowly rolling in the boy's head as he looked over at her tanned friend. "W.... Y.... You think you're from the Fire Nation?" He asked softly. He had never known that Soran wasn't born to the Airbending nation until Niyol enlightened him. He still didn't believe it until he saw Soran playing with a ball by himself in the field. He tried to cheer up his friend but it seemed like maybe Niyol was right... Soran couldn't remember his parents at all and when he thought about it he could at least remember some faces unlike Soran. They had all been in the temple for so long.

It was so long that he forgot that he lived anywhere else. It was so long that he couldn't remember when he had become friends with Soran. It seemed like they had been friends since they were born.

"I don't think it matters where you are, Soran. You are kind and wise to begin with. The monks would not take you under their wing if they didn't think that. They believe in you and so do I. You always wanted to adventure and you always wanted to know so many answers to so many questions. Maybe... maybe this is your calling. Maybe it's time for those wants to turn into... into reality.'

[Reno]

Blue eyes averted from his friend as he gave an ever so slight nod to his question, feeling the twist in his own gut. Though over the centuries of peace and calm, still the Fire Nation was attempting to redeem itself for their long years of tyranny and war. Child were still paying for their ancestors mistakes, the eldest of men still in suspicion of treachery and deceit.

In his heart, he knew it had to be the answer. All this time, he had felt so out of place. And now he knew it was because he was learning the wrong element first. Even if they had done terrible things, fire in itself was not an element to be thrown aside. The Avatar was meant to keep balance among the world, the elements and the spirit world. So, the solution was there, right in front of his eyes and he could deny it no longer.

His parents were of Fire Nation origin.

Blue eyes opened and he looked towards the other, hearing his words and smiled faintly. "You are quite wise yourself Ventus." He commended gently, nodding slowly. "Thank you. You are right... if this is who I'm meant to be... I suppose I can't hide from it."

[Rikugurl]

"Hehe!" A bright, friendly smile arose from the boy as he nodded. "Right! And you'll never be alone either! I'll come with you on your journeys! I'm sure the Elders won't mind." He was hoping they wouldn't mind. An Avatar needed a guide... didn't they!? The other question was... how were they going to start their adventure with nothing to travel on?
"So... you accept it? Will you be... our Avatar, Soran?"

Now he had to wonder... was Soran his friend's real name?


In another land that was vast and still scared, gloomed a palace that rained ashes over itself.

The sound of boot clicking on the bright red rug filled the large thrown room, an elder man hunched over slightly as his noble robes dragged behind him. He came to a spot in the rug that was slightly worn, obviously a place where many had stood before. A fist rose and was placed over his chest before wicked eyes looked up at the man sitting on the thrown. "Fire Lord Huǒ, I come for my weekly report." He bowed slightly as the man sitting looked down at him. "And how do you report, Xehornort?" The voice was deep and unkind from irritation and stress.

"Fifteen newborns were tested in the Nation and none were able to pass the test." The old man revealed, the look on his face was but a mirror to the lord.
"Then that settles it. It has nearly been seventeen years since the death of the last Avatar and she has not been reborn here. I will call upon the Xipil Brothers to hunt down any outside news of a suspected Avatar." A scroll was suddenly taken from a barrel next to him and fire was pulled from a torch nearby. It scribed, like a pen, letters that burned into the paper before the scroll was rolled back up and placed into a holder on a Dragon hawk's leg. The bird was quick to flight, moving out the window and across the land.

Fierce yet calm eyes looked back at the old man. "If they cannot find the new Avatar... you had better come up with a better plan..."

[Reno]

Blue eyes blinked, becoming a bit wider as the other announced he wanted to come along. "Ventus..." He murmured, overjoyed. It would be no fun, traveling the nations alone. But with his best friend at his side... it would be like a vacation!

He turned his head, gazing up at the statue of the last firebending avatar, and then nodded slowly. "If it is apart of who I am, I will have to accept the honor eventually. The world needs the Avatar and..." He grinned some, a bit of his old spark coming back to his eyes as he realized he was now truly free of the temple and allowed to see the world, "I've always wanted to ride a Lionhorse!"


Wings fluttered overhead, catching the attention of a sharp green gaze. "Yo, company so late in the year?" The lanky man stood from a chair situated on a porch, simply catching the last of the day's sun. The sight of the dragon-hawk did not rise suspicion or surprise as one would think it would when be visited by the Fire Lord's personal messenger.

This call had been one that was expected.

A pale hand reached out as the bird settled, stripping it of the heavy parchment, unrolling it to read the careful calligraphy. He rose an eyebrow, and sighed. "What a waste of our talents." Maybe he could get his little brother to do this one alone... He really would just rather laze around then doing something so meaningless as recon.

[Rikugurl]

"Yea! That's the spirit!" The blonde chucked as he stood, seeing his friend do the same. His heart was suddenly full of happiness and excitement, wondering if the Elders really would let him go on the journey with the Avatar. All he knew was that Soran needed to get back to the Fire Nation and find out if it was his true origin. That way, the Fire Nation wouldn't be so worried. He had no idea that it was a little bit too late for that. "Come on! We have to go tell the Elders so you can be accepted by everyone and we can start the journey! This is going to be so fun! I... I mean WE will get to see the whole work and you get to learn all the bending powers out there! You are so lucky, Soran!"


Out behind the hut, a thin body was seen much like the one who had gathered the information. Unlike the other though, his hair was untamed and free, dancing like the fire that was around him. His chest heaved some before it settled, his long arms coming in as he took a deep breath, finding his center. Slowly, narrow green eyes opened and his suddenly knocked over one of the torches, making the fire fall against the ground. Biting at his feet, he suddenly started to cartwheel and flip, the fire following his every move from his feet. when he landed, he twisted his body as he kicked into the air, the fire whipping around before being put out in the soil.

A heavy stomp expelled the fire from his toes and his long arms reached down, encircling the flames. His wrists kicked out and the fire was thrown out before him. Legs spread and he lowered to the ground, one hand over his chest in a position as if he was holding something and his other pointing his palm at the flame that quickly collected. Slowly, he moved his palm from left to right, making the ball of fire move in the air. He quickly reversed his hands and slowly moved the ball from right to left. Never did his gaze stray from the deadly element. His hand by his chest slowly moved, over lapping the other and made a pulling motion, making the ball of fire come close to him.

When it reached his center, his pushed his hands down and the fire flew into the ground. Airs pushed up against the sky and all around him, the fire rose over his head and up towards the stars. It wrapped around him, encasing him and--- went out as he heard his name.
"Eh?" He panted, turning around and pulling his sweat drenched red hair from his face as he looked at his brother that was coming towards him with a scroll.