A Recognition of Shadows

[Reno]

There were no cheers as Roxas won the duel, everyone too breathless with anticipation and hope that they thought the merest noise would shatter the moment. Blue eyes narrowed as they faced the Spirit, surprisingly fearless, Oathkeeper only a mere few inches away, deadly point of the blade pointed just mere inches away. Blue eyes narrowed as the other spoke to him, asking for him to join him. “You know… had it been months ago… maybe even just a week ago, I would have ‘joined’ you. But I’ve found people who have made me feel alive for the first time-” He smirked sardonically, than thrust his hands forward, feeling as his blade pierced through the Spirit. “I’m not trading that for anything.”

He heard the Spirit choke and gag some and his eyes narrowed suspiciously, knowing that he could not kill him so was he putting on an act? It was too his eye-widening horror… when the black blood started to seep from the other’s mouth and as if it had a mind of its own… started to curl up his blade. He gasped sharply, trying to pull his sword free, but it was like trying to yank a brick from a wall. Impossible. And soon enough he couldn’t even move his hands… as the blood curled around his hands and he hissed, the feeling strange and almost burningly painful, “A-Ah!” He called, yanking his body, trying to get himself free… but it was no use.

He heard Axel yell suddenly, and flames swept past him, but Vanitas freed himself from the blade and dispersed them before he could blink. He gasped, and quicker and quicker he seemed to be swallowed, the tar-like waste running up his arms, dripping down around his feet, pooling beneath his knees. The weight became too much and his body buckled, bringing the proud warrior to the ground.

And one by one, the Avatar watched in horror as each one of his friends was over-taken. Roxas was first, but Axel, was next the cry of pain from his teacher spurring him to rush forward. “Axel!” By the water overtook him. He got on a few feet before, with his heart skipping into his throat, he heard his best friend cry out – and Terra’s shortly following. He turned, just in time to see land covering up a small hole of a newly built cylinder and the tornado that partially masked a tall brunette from sight as he dropped to the ground, just trying not to be swept away. “Ventus! Terra!”

He wanted to run to their aid as well, but Vanitas was the one to stop him this time. His eyes widened seeing the advancing Spirit ad he dropped into a defensive stance. He knew this battle was meant only for him… he should of never let the other’s come. His eyes narrowed when the other asked to overtake him again, about to shout back in the strongest voice like a roar of stormy wind that there was no way he would allowed for it; but his words died in his throat as the other mentioned his ‘snake friend’. “W-What?” He whispered weakly, no more powerful than a breeze on a spring morning. “What… what does Riku have to do with any of this?”

[Rikugurl]

"Heaheaheaheaheaheaheaheaheah.... That's right. The bird didn't make it to the Tribe yet. You have not learned of his fate. He has succumbed to the shadows for he was never a very good swordsman. Only a boy is left to guard those other.... Spirits as he is pretty good at hiding from shadows." He shook his head, his black spikes bouncing as he did. "But now is the time you can join him. I do believed he voiced your name when----"

"SORA! DON'T LISTEN TO HIM!"

"Ut!?" Suddenly the clouds split away and the full moon glowed brightly, lighting up the Great Divide. The moonlight spread over the rocks, diminishing the tornado and allowing Terra to free himself. The light came over the dark rocks, making them weak and give out, the air master falling on his face as his fist went through it but he scrambled to his feet quick enough. The light then hit the typhoon, diminishing it as well to reveal a wet and panting redhead. All eyes, including ones of gold stared up at the moon only to realize something was coming down from it.

As it got closer, Axel gasped and blinked, not believing his eyes when he recognized the shape. It had to be a dragon. A white dragon. There was man riding it, one with long silver hair in light Northern Water Tribal clothes. They watched as he jumped off and shot down towards the Spirit and Avatar. His eyes glowed the color of the moon and in his hands he gripped onto Oblivion. "HEEEEEEEEYAAAAA!!!" A cry came from above and with a mighty swing, an arch of light flew down towards the Shadow Spirit.

There was a hiss as the light came closer and Vanitas held his arm out to block it with his own wave of shadows but it was too late as his arm fell to the ground beside his foot. "AAAAAAAAAAAHH!!!" A scream echoed as black blood started to poor from his amputation. The silverette landed swiftly and gracefully in front of Sora, his eyes still bright as concern ran over his face. "Sora....? Are you alright? I can as fast as I could and---"
"YOU FILTHY MORTAL GUARDIAN! HOW DARE YOU STRIKE AT ME WITH HER LIGHT!" A darkened arm shot out of the amputation, the claws sharp and dripping with the black blood. Riku quickly turned to defend himself but the claw embedded into his chest before Oblivion could move.

"I SHALL HAVE YOUR-----GA-AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!" Pure light escaped from the wound he had created in the guardian, the light of the moon breaking through and blinded the Shadow Spirit. "AAAAAAAAAH! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!" He cried, stumbling back as Soran caught Riku in his arms. Vanitas was not rather transparent, bits and pieces of himself chipping away as his golden eyes were wide with terror and pain.
As for the guardian, his hair turned to a dull shade of grey, no longer having the shimmering silver. His chest was unharmed but something was still terribly wrong.

Blue eyes moved to the Avatar, seeing that his attention was with Riku and not one what it should be. "SORAN!"

[Reno]

Sora's eyes widened when the other started to tell him... that Riku... that he... he was... "N-No..." Tears welled up in his eyes, his heart pounding hard as pain lashed through him. But before the Spirit could keep talking, there was a yell that made his heart soar with hope as he looked up and his eyes widened.

That dragon...

"Oh hey Vi, what'd I miss?"
"The Shadows finally attacked." Came a voice, not of the rabbit fox's, but of a stunning young man's. As Sora turned his head his eyes widened seeing the shining silver hair glowing in the moonlight, a glorious white dragon wrapped around him. But when he blinked next, scales seemed to fall to the ground like snow, revealing nothing but a harmless white water snake.

"Yue...." Sora whispered, not noticing his friends getting free. But all of them where watching - especially Roxas with quite some pride - as Riku jumped off the dragon's back and struck down, slicing right into the shadow spirit.
"Riku!" Sora cried in joy, looked at the silverette with a smile. How he was here, he didn't know but honestly didn't care. But both of them jumped as they heard Vanitas' roar of fury and then... and then...

"RIKU!" Soran cried in horror seeing the silverette's body jerk as claws struck him. Oblivion clattered as it fell to the ground. The bright light made him shut his eyes but as the red disappeared from his eyelids and he opened them again, he gasped as he saw Riku falling. He hurried forward, his arms reaching out as he caught the other and he fell to his knees, Riku cradled in his gasp. The silverette was gasping, as if he couldn't get enough air and those beautiful eyes that reminded him of the clearest oceans were dimming. "Riku... Riku what's wrong?!" The silverette couldn't reply, and Soran sobbed softly, laying his head on his shoulder.

He was the Avatar, he was supposed to protect people. How did he let this happen? How could he expect to protect everyone... if he couldn't even protect the man he loved?

"SORAN!"
"AVATAR, FINISH HIM!"
"GET UP SORAN!"
"FIGHT!"

....... But how could he be expected to succeed if he does not even try? Like a baby bird learning how to fly - it might be frightening but the reward is worth trying for.

Teary blue eyes opened, before he rose his head, looking down at Riku. He brushed away some silver locks tenderly, before leaning down giving him a kiss. "It'll be okay Riku... I love you..." He laid the man on the ground gently before standing, walking over to towards the spirit. "VANITAS!" A million voices yelled. His eyes starting to glow as wind whipped up around the two of them, so violent that it brought up the dust and masked the two from sight, leaving the others on the sidelines only to watch helplessly.

"Avatar Soran... is this truly the way you wish it to end?"

In the whirlwind, the furious Avatar heard nothing. But Soran himself felt himself torn from his own body, his spirit glimmering in shades of blue as he was thrust away. He appeared inside on the back of a large white creature.

"W-What?!" The brunette cried, looking around, gripping onto the white fur of the great beast in confusion, seeing that he was flying around in the clouds far above and beyond the battle. He looked around in confusion, before he hesitated, seeing a bald man riding on the back of the horned-creature's neck. It was... he was riding on a... a sky bison?!

It couldn't be... could it? "A...Avatar Aang?"

The bald man looked back at him, giving him a patient smile. "Come, I want to show you something."
In an instant they were flying across the world - across the the Earth Kingdom. As they reached the ocean;s edge though, Soran looked over the edge of the beast's back, his eyes widened as he saw a structure of pillars. But a lot of them had crumbled or showed marks of being burnt or crashed into. It was as if a great battle had taken place here. "Wow..."
"Even after all these years, the scars are still here. A long time ago, I faced Fire Lord Ozai here. I, like you, tried to talk him out of the fight - but his greedy, insatiable nature would not heed my warning and we battled. I was much younger than you."
As if his words were magic, Soran saw before his eyes a young boy and a man with a crown on his head dancing along the pillars of rock and shooting attacks at each other. The sky was red and the flames of the fire struck out towards the young avatar, more furious than normal. He remembered - Sozin's comet had fallen during this battle, increasing the power of firebending.

His eyes widened and reflected the color of blue as an attack of a different kind flew across the battlefield from the Fire Lord's fingertips with a great boom. It was... It wasn't precisely fire...
"At one point. I too was taken by the Avatar State."
He saw Aang again, his eyes and tattoos glowing blue as he fought with all the elements against the Fire Lord, trsapped his arms and legs in earth and raising his fist, about to deliver the killing blow-
"But I stopped myself."
The glow faded, and Aang was himself again.
"Fighting with the Avatar State is meant to grant you power you do not have. But to win a fight with it means you have won without being yourself. I hope you understand my wisdom."
"I do." Soran answered and gasped as they suddenly flew across the Earth Kingdom again in another instant, the large sky bison circling over the Great Divide. Soran stood on the great beast, looking down at his body far below.
"Good luck avatar. I trust you know what to do. And oh- by the way. The Moon Spirit... I knew her under a different name during her life. It was-"

Soran jumped, his soul soaring down far, far below before it crashed with his body.

The glow was gone.

The typhoon faded.

Everyone saw Vanitas still there and Soran back to himself. "Yue.... no, Tui was the one who banished you. The moon spirit of before." He said and their was an echoing screech, Vanitas covering his ears as if to block that name out. But his hands could not block out the Avatar's powerful voice.

"You know Vanitas..." Soran said, his eyes thoughtful. "I feel... sad for you. You've lived so much or your time alone. At least the ocean and moon spirits, no matter how many lives they see pass, they always have each other." There was a growl, the Spirit snapping he needed no one!

"Everyone needs someone." The Avatar argued. "You've simply been alone so long, you think that's what your live should be. You are so convinced that each relationship is nothing but pain and suffering, but your eyes only see the dark. You don't see the joy and fun, the love and care we share." There was another growl, but Soran was patient, and he spoke once the other was done.

"You said so yourself: you want everyone to never forget who you are. You are so determined to wreck havoc but all you are trying to do... is to make people know you. What you don't see is that we all want that. We all need a witness to our lives. There are... thousands of people on this world. What does any one life really mean? But when you make a friend, you're promising to care about everything. The good things, the bad things, the terrible things, the mundane things... all of it, all of the time, every day. You're saying 'Your life will not go unnoticed because I will notice it. Your life will not go un-witnessed because I will be your witness'."

The brunette paused, before raising his hand, two fingers extending. "You said you were like Roxas, right?" He stated, "Well look at him now. For almost his whole life, he was consumed by his only hate and anger, but now... fate allowed his dream to come true. He and his brother were reunited and that... that was all he ever wanted. What's your dream Vanitas? Is it really to cover the world in darkness?" The spirit snapped at him that of course it was - what had he been saying all this time?! "No, that it is an act of revenge. Roxas' was to become a swordsman who could fight and defeat any bender so that his heart would be free of Ven. But that wasn't his dream. And it isn't your either. Are you sure...... you don't just wish.... to go home?"

For once the spirit... was very silent. Home. It was not a word... he had heard for a long, long time. Never even thought of the possibility. Energy crackled around Soran's fingertips. "Vanitas.... consider this an act of friendship from me. Tui banished you from the spirit world.... and I will banish you back there. I'm giving you a second chance because I think we all deserve one... so this time, make friends, not enemies. You might be surprised... how nice it really is."
Sora's body flowed, the sound of crackling filling the air, as his body seemed to flow artfully and everyone watched as he thrust his two fingers forward and with wide eyes watching him, bright yellow lightning flew from his fingertips. It was... the purest form of firebending.

It crashed into Vanitas, the so bright it light lit up the sky. And then when the light faded... Vanitas was gone.

[Rikugurl]

"Tui was the one who banished you."

"AUGH!" Decaying claws reached up to his ears, pressing his palms on them tightly to block out the name he hated most. How dare he say her name! He did not understand how wicked she was, forcing him here on this plane with her.

"You've lived so much or your time alone. At least the ocean and moon spirits, no matter how many lives they see pass, they always have each other."

"Silence! I need no one!"

"What's your dream Vanitas? Is it really to cover the world in darkness?"

"Of course! Shadows see everything! Know everything! They will all know me and know that I exist! I will not cower to the light like we are forced to! I will not disappear! The night is for darkness yet she will only bring me one night where I can roam outside of my prison! I want to move like I once had and the only way I can do that is to bring darkness to every corner of this place!" The golden eyes narrowed with hate even as more bits and pieces of his body broke off and floated into nothing.

"Are you sure...... you don't just wish.... to go home?"

"Uuuh...." The Shadow Spirit stopped and frowned, his eyes staring straight into the Avatar's. Home? Home..." Their eyes broke and a hand reached up to where his heart would be. Like the air master that was watching the scene, he had forgotten what home even looked like. He did not hear the sounds of the crackling energy in the Avatar's fingers. His attention was drawn back though when the bald boy started to speak again.
"Wha-AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!" Again he coward behind his arms again and once more, the rest of the group had to shield their eyes from the light. Slowly, their arms and heads moved for their eyes to see the empty space where Vanitas had stood just moments before.

It was soon after that another light came pouring down on all of them, not even giving Axel a change in congratulating his pupil for making lightning. This was important though, everyone looking up with a squint to see a ghostly figure of a beautiful young woman. She floated in front of the moon and Terra, knowledgeable in books, was the first to realize that he was looking at Yue in her true form.

"Home." She began as she looked down on them while small pieces of light dropped from the sky, looking like millions of fireflies that had wrapped themselves in snow. "Home is a place we all yearn for. Home is like our hearts. It cannot be destroyed even if it no longer stands. We love our home as much as we fear it sometimes but if it is truly where you belong, you will find yourself there once again. Avatar Soran, you are right. Everyone deserves a second chance. Everyone deserves to go home. Everyone deserves to have their light. I think you all deserve that much for saving your world. Thank you... and I am sure we will see each other again. If it is the light that you seek, you will find it at the end of every journey."

The light grew brighter until the whole group had to cover their eyes for the third time but this time, it was different. It was a warm light, a feeling that brought them into a peaceful state. There was a soothing hum and their bodies felt rejuvenated. The light spread over the Great Divide and when it went out, no one stood on the top of the rocks nor the woman of the moon could be seen. They had all gone home.


The sound of the wooden stairs brought the attention to an elderly man made him glance at the staircase, seeing a bald boy descending down. There was a young woman tending to his feet who also glanced up at the boy. "Oh, hello... I did not realize there was another person living here..." She spoke softly, her expression surprised as the boy looked around as if he wasn't sure why he was here either.
"Are you an---" She started but the old man coughed, making her hold his hand for support.
"It is my grandson." The man choked some before breathing deeply and labored.

Both the young boy and woman seemed shocked by the man's insight, seeing a smile on his face.
"Sorias, your grandson has been missing for nearly ten years now. I am sure this orphan was just looking for a place to sleep for the night." The woman looked over at the boy whose eyes were still on the elder. "Please forgive him, he suffers from terrible dementia. I'm Serafine, his caretaker. You must be---"
"It is Mishaal, my grandson! My dear, you must be as deaf as I." The old man sighed, leaning back in his chair. "He has found his way home and... he has become a handsome man like his father." The elder smile again, looking up at the dumbfounded boy.

"Sorias, I don't---"
"There. Look and see for yourself. He was an infant there but though I may not have all my mind, I know my grandson when I see him." The man pointed to a place on the wall were a family portrait hung on the wall. Both the boy and woman look at the picture, seeing a younger Sorias and another woman by his side as a younger couple sat in front of them, both holding an infant. There was a Fire Nation symbol in the back and one that was easily noticeable as noble. The boy walked over to the picture, examining it before he turned and apologized because he wasn't quite sure what was going on.

"Serafine, my cane." The man ordered but the woman frowned, stating that he wasn't suppose to go out without assistance and that she had just soaked his feet. "I am sure my grandson will not mind walking me outdoors for a talk." The woman was about to argue again but the boy was considerate and willing, taking the cane and helping the man to his feet. Together, they left the caretaker alone to clean up.
"I am sure you have forgotten," The elder began as he and the boy walked down a small beaten path towards the back of the house. "but this village is called Detia and it is a Fire Nation colony in the Earth Kingdom. We were once nobles from the Fire Nation Capital but we moved here to give you a simpler life. You were such a happy child and we believed the life of a noble would spoil it for you."

As they came to the back of the house, a luscious garden made it look like a beautifully crafted miniature rain forest. However, the beauty blossomed with one particular tree. They moved towards it and the boy could easily see two stones on the ground before it, a carving in it from fire bending. Each had a different first name but the same last. "Your parents were young when they married and young when they had you but they were experienced parents and you were their center flame. You were their whole life and would do anything to give you everything you needed. We traveled here by boat and it was to my sorrow that they both became ill from the voyage. Having seen my wife die before me years before, I knew that their end were coming too."

The man paused, his eyes becoming sad as he looked at the stones. "Even then, I was losing my cognitive awareness and I knew that I would not be fit to raise you, Mishaal. As your parents continued to fall to their illness, I entertained you with some firebending and to my surprise, you would always put out my flames. I was worried that something was wrong because you showed the power to airbend instead of firebend. But with this strange phenomenon, it gave me some reassurance. Traveling Monks from the nearby Air Temple were visiting Detia to voice their teachings and I ask them to come to our home here to speak. They gladly did and saw just how fragile my children were yet who had a boy who had already shown such a great gift. That night, the monks took you away to give you a new life in the Air Temple."

Now... it seemed like the boy knew exactly where he was.
"We love our home as much as we fear it sometimes but if it is truly where you belong, you will find yourself there once again."
"Tell me, Mishaal, do you have a good life? Have we not misjudged your fate? Are you happy?"


The sound of hammers vs nails could be heard in the small village as repairs were go. The village had been nearly destroyed from attacks by yellow eyed creatures but one evening, everyone returned who had gone missing. Ever since, it has been a working effort to get things back to the way it once was. It didn't seem like the shadows would revolt again and all was right again. Especially when a woman found her son laying in his bed one morning. Unfortunately, he did not stay long but was reunited with a missed friend who gave him many wet and slobbery kisses when they reunited.

Now, two men were working side by side as they used some of their earth bending with their labor to raise another small cottage. It was one for the boy to call his own. His uncle found it particularity interesting that he wanted a larger size bed but he could only guess that maybe the boy was a restless sleeper. They were setting up the door when they both heard a yell in the distance. "What was that?" The one eyed man frowned, glancing over his shoulder only to look down the street to see a figure standing at the foot of the village entrance. As the younger brunette looked back, he recognized the stance the figure was in, one that reminded him of a young blonde warrior he knew well.

There was another call and this time, there was no mistake that it was from the figure who was now walking down the path towards the house. As he got closer, the two could see two handmade, unique swords on either side of his body, drawn and ready to fight.
"TERRA!" The yell came again and they could both make it out. "Him again, huh?" The man sighed, shaking his head but when he looked at his nephew, he could see a faint smile on his face. Had they become friends? When the boy came closer, his appearance was no longer shadowed. It was him alright. The same clothes he always wore, Oblivion and Oathkeeper at his side with his swirly blonde hair.

It was to both of their shock that one of the blades were suddenly pointed at Terra, swirly blue eyes narrowing. "Terra! There you are! I've been looking all over for you! We never did get an official fight, huh? Now is the best time so get ready!" He called and quickly dashed towards the brunette. Before Terra could even begin a bending move, he was stunned as the sound of the swords falling onto the ground rang in his ears and a burst of wind shot the blonde up towards the sky. With his head cranked back, all the earthbender could see was a gigantic smile as the blonde started to fall back down towards him, the wind whipping through his hair, pushing it back to reveal... a blue tattooed arrow.

"HAHAHAA!!" A joyous laugh rang out as the blonde suddenly landed in Terra's arms, sending both of them back into the newly made house and onto the rug. Nothing could be said as their lips smashed into a passionate kiss, making the confused uncle outside blush and look away. Atteris wasn't so modest, rushing inside to get some kisses too.
Fingers pushed brown locks out of the way as the air master nuzzled the tanner male below him. "Ah, I missed you so much, Terra!" A giggle filled his voice as he continued to get little kisses from the bull-wolf. "And you too, Atteris!"

When they finally sat up and got situated, Terra had to inquire where his twin was. "Oh! Roxas went into the forest to find the raptor-lion... umm....I forgot what he named her but he went out looking for her. We both woke up in our home in the air nomad village at the base of the Air Temple. I... finally saw my parents again... and I talked to my dad. He apologized to Roxas and we all had breakfast together. We decided to head out together to find you because he wanted to see the raptor-lion again and to see if her pups were alright. I guess... when he's done, he's heading to the Fire Nation to find Axel."

He gave a bright and chipper smile but it dulled quickly when Soran came up in the next question. The boy shook his head, his eyes adverting to the floor. "We couldn't find him... He was nowhere in the village or in the Air Temple. I'm really worried about him though but... I have a theory that if we woke up in our house... and you're here... maybe we all went back 'home' like Yue said that night. Maybe... maybe Soran is where he's really from. I just wish... I knew where that was."
Terra was quick to cheer him and put some light back into his thoughts... and that he had come at a perfect time.
"Really? What time is it?"
"It's time to enjoy our new home."


"My lord... I have come to speak to you about the underground fights. There must be a way to put an end to it. I have a few names that---"
"Where did this come from, Axel?" A man looked down at another who was in his armored attire. "I don't think I have seen your face as much in the years of knowing you than of this week. And since when were you concerned about the underground fights? I thought your brother and---"
"My brother is one of the people setting them up. I would like him to be arrested along with---"
"Arrested? Axel, do you know why I allow such things to happen? It's so those nuisances keep themselves entertained."
"So it's better to have innocent fauna slaughtered than taking the matters into your own hands?"

The Fire Lord's eyes narrowed as he looked into Axel's. "What are you implying?"
"What I'm trying to say is that there needs to be some improvements in the way things are handled in our Nation." There were some gasps as the servants heard the outspoken royal messenger. "We are a great nation that has the potential which hasn't been reached."
"What are you talking about? We are the most powerful and innovated nation in the world. What more can we 'reach'?"
"We aren't the most powerful and innovated nation in the world. What is power exactly? Power comes in a lot of forms, my lord and brutality isn't the only one. And what of the other people who share this world with us? Do you not know of the city that lies just north of us who created their whole city by bending? Have you seen the detail and heart they put into their jobs? Have you see their power of healing?"

Emeralds closed in thought before he opened them again, looking back at the lord. "And what about the doors that lie in the Air Temples? One that you need to be able to bend wind to open them. Sure, we have the ability to forge metal and create but some Earth Benders can bend metal itself. What we have over every other place in this world is our patriotism and though it is a great thing to have, it's hindering us from what's really important. Who cares about power or innovation... when you have harmony among the world? All we worry about is being blamed and punished from our past but the only ones who is blaming and punishing us are ourselves from this worry and burden. We can't... we can't even apologize to those we've hurt right. Until we come to the realization that our nation isn't perfect, we'll always be blinded from the truth."

He paused but the Fire Lord didn't speak a word, allowing him to continue. "My lord... I have walked alongside the Avatar. I did not walk in front of him and I didn't walk behind him. We were equals and I know he is a more powerful man than I but that never became a factor. Him along with his friends have opened my eyes and I can see what I had not seen before... and I don't like what I see. I left my home with the Sun Warriors to come here because I had hatred in my heart and my philosophy was true to yours. The firebenders of the Fire Nation fuel their bending with rage, hate and anger. I was taught that firebending represents life and energy, as if there was a Sun within every Firebender and I now know the truth that their words were right. I want... everyone to open their eyes."

"We all want a lot of things, Axel, but not even I, the lord of this nation, can get what I want. Things that have been will always be the same because experimenting with new ideas can hinder us. We are what we are today based on these ideas."
"They are ugly ones."
"Well, you can think of it however you want but I will not have any changes done unless I find them fit."
"I understand... and that's why I'm here."
"Oh?"
"Yes. I wish to do this changes myself... by becoming the new Fire Lord."
"W-what!?"
"Fire Lord Huǒ, I challenge you to an Agni Kai at sunset."

Do you know why the sun is red as it sinks below the horizon? It's because among the countless colors compressing light, red travels the greatest distance...


"Yiiiip! Yiiiiiiiiiiiip!!"
"Ah, what is it Jax?" A redheaded boy smiled as he reached down, rubbing his raptor-lion's mane. The fauna stood on his hind legs and pointed up at the sky, making his master look up as well and he started to laugh happily as small fireworks sparked through the sky. "Wow! So it's true, huh! Awesome!" The boy suddenly broke into a run down the street, Jax following behind. They reached a town square and looked up at the sky again before the boy waves his arms frantically. "HEY! HEY! DOWN HERE! REMEMBER ME!?" He called as he looked at the magnificent red dragon flying through the sky. His smile brightened when his gaze was met but green eyes and he was waved to.

He could hardly believe that the man who saved his raptor-lion was the new Fire Lord!
Things were already getting better thanks to


"Fire Lord Axel..." A woman spoke as she bowed slightly before straightening, seeing the tall, lanky man looking over some papers. "Yes?" He relied as he read through the new rule of banning the hunting of rabbit-foxes for their Fire Diamonds. They were now considered a protected fauna under the Fire Nation. This will make the price of the current Fire Diamonds raise and become more valuable, helping some of the craftsmen in the nation.
"Someone has come with another gift to congratulation you."
"Oh... please appologize and let them know that I am very busy right at this moment. I have to go through these papers and get ready for my journey to the Northern Water Tribe for the princess's wedding. I really can't be late or I'll never hear the end of it."

"But I think you should really find some time to allow him in..." The woman winked, making the Fire Lord blink in curiosity. "His gift looks rather cute. I believe it is a baby raptor-lion."
Raptor-lion...?
Papers suddenly flew in the air as the man stood, taking a breath of air. "Please let him in!"
The woman giggled before bowing and walking to the door, opening it to reveal a blonde warrior with a little red ball of fluff in his arms.
"R-roxas..." The lord smiled happily as he hurried across the room and placed his hands on the shorter man's shoulders before leaning down and planting a soft kiss on his lips. The servant smiled before quietly leaving the two alone.


Lines of ice and designs decorated the icy dome overhead. A man in blue robes and with blue hair concentrated hard as he made the beautiful and fancy details to the room. It was a celebration in which the tribe was waiting many years for and after the month of hardship awhile ago, they all needed this. Finally, their princess was getting married. Well, maybe that should be reworded. Finally, the prince was allowing the princess to get married. That wasn't the only curious thing. There was also the fact that the future princes wasn't even from this Tribe, nor a waterbender. He was a young, stunning air bender from a poor village in the Earth Kingdom. It was explained that it was love at first sight but Prince Isa would not speak of the true secret that they both had.

That was for themselves to keep and he was just happy that for all her efforts, something had worked out for her.

Her brother wasn't the only one working on preparations for the wedding. Many other people were pitching in, including a well known guardian. It had been the first time that many had really seen him longer than is usual stroll to the oasis. He was setting up the tables and making all the small wedding trinkets perfect... along with some help from Yue and La. The two were making snowy designs with their bodies in the surrounding snow to add to the art on the dome while the silverette was placing the napkins and silverware down. He glanced over to see their progress and as he did, he frowned, seeing La slither away. "La?" He called, turning to see where the Ocean Spirit was headed only for his eyes to widen he saw a figure in the doorway.

La wrapped his body around the young man's leg and slithered up, making the brunette giggle. The brunette... with bouncy spikes and a cheerful smile.
"Sora..." A whisper passed the guardian's lips and Yue too stopped, looking over at the Avatar as he walked in.
"Hahaha, hey Vi" The guardian chuckled as Invidia flew in circled around him, giving him a bark in greeting. When she landed on his shoulder, he gave a smile before looking down at Sora who was now standing a few feet from him, La wrapped around his shoulders. "Sora..." He said again as a pale hand reached out and ran his fingers through the stubborn spikes. Vanitas really did shadow him...

"I missed you... but I knew you'd come." Riku spoke softly, an adoring smile running over his face. "Because La would of surely be depressed if he never saw you again... and... he really needs a guardian..." He leaned closed to the Avatar, their forehead's coming together. "And I need you."

[Reno]

A gentle smile was returned, a hand reaching up and tugging some of those pretty silver strands back behind his ear, “Well, I’m glad. Because that feeling is definitely mutual.” The brunette tilted his head and brushed his lips along the other’s.


“Whoo-hoo!” Came a happy call a blonde holding onto his glider as he boarded through the water, leading the crew behind him with style. “Come on everyone, keep up!”
There was a sigh behind a pretty brunette, a taller, more muscular one holding onto her as she led the eel-hound which much more skill than he ever could. Behind him was a large beast of a dog, his long fluffy tail wrapped around his master’s waist. Terra sighed. “Sometimes he can be a little much…”
“Ah, I think he’s cute!”
“Ugh, you would!” Came a call from another large eel-hound, a scarred-blonde leading this one and behind him a burly man sat, between them a familiar feline known as Vivi.
“What is that supposed to mean Seifer?!” A voice from below snapped instead, making Terra look down… far down where a smaller eel-hound was hopping in the waves after his mother, Hayner, one of the tough kids from town, was leading him. Behind him, Pence was leading another small reptile, the two getting splashed every so often.
“What do you think it means you chickenwuss!?”
“Alright enough fighting you two! This is supposed to be a happy day!” Pence sighed.
“Ya, a happy day for them the princess and soon-to-be-prince, ya know?”

And that it was. Invitations had been sent far and wide all the way from the North to the South and everywhere in between. From those who were closest to the two soon-to-be-wed to those who it would only ‘be polite’ to send them too, many people received an invitation for the great event. And as four eel-hound climbed onto the ice with little trouble, allowing their passengers to get off and get on their winter clothing, they could already see that plenty of people had showed up.

And as they approached the arranged seating, a brunette usher with wild spikes approached them, smiling mischievously at them, looking at Ven and Terra in particular. He seemed… so familiar. Those eyes... and that smile, “Why hello; invitations please?” He spoke and Terra’s eyes widened; the voice was unmistakable.
“SORA!!” Ventus cried with joy, crashing into the Avatar without pause and the two ended up on the snow-packed, the brunette laughing happily.
“It’s good to see you too!”
“Oh, where have you been? I looked everywhere for you but the monks said you hadn’t returned and I figured you went back home but I didn’t know where that was and-Ack!“ Ventus gulped as he was lifted up by one strong arm, Terra setting him back on his feet.
“I think you’re overwhelming him Ven.”
Sora chuckled and picked himself off, brushing off the snow. “Don’t worry, I’ll tell you guys everything later! But the ceremony is about to start so come on, all of you.” He ushered them off like a good hostess, leading them to their seats right in the front row. And Terra and Ven were given a second surprise as they found Riku, Axel and Roxas – with a little ball of red fluff in his lap – already there. Atteris lay down at Terra’s feet, Vivi hopped into Seifer and Raijin’s lap and made himself comfortable and Sora plopped down in the seat next to Riku, allowing La to climb onto his shoulder and Invidia in his lap, his hand surreptitiously intertwining with the silverette’s. Between all the boys, Olette was giggling and sighing over the romance of it all.

The ceremony began and ended as many marriages would. They were married by a length of blue ribbon that tied them together, as their marriage did, and their vows were eternal to each other. In the eyes of their audience, they were married, and the promises sealed with a kiss that the crowd applauded with rapture and relief. Few knew the origins behind the mysterious silver-haired male that Aqua had chosen to marry, even fewer entrusted with the knowledge that he was not truly a he. But, with a secret smile on their faces, the group she had traveled such a short time with but grew to know and love as if they were her own family, watched happily as they were bound to one another, knowing that – even if it had to be a secret – they did not have to worry about their sister, or now their sisters – happiness.

To celebrate the occasion there was an enormous feast in the Palace for all to attend as well as those presenting gifts to them, Isa and some of the best water-benders in the Northern and Southern tribes gave a celebratory show, their water-bending flowing through the air in an artful dance. Edmy wrote a song dedicated to them and performed it gracefully, the crowd dazzled as he water bending through sculptures of ice structures that created ringing sounds and tunes. Axel did a one-man fireworks show that was absolutely spectacular.

Everyone had something to offer – a song, a gift, a show, some words of wisdom – and each one was accepted graciously by the two.

But the day turned to night, and soon most of the crowd was waved off and thanked for their attendance before the couple retired for the night. But as the moon rose high in the sky, an old, worn wooden door was opened, and two figured, hand in hand, slipped down the stairs and into a beautiful oasis. Laying on the grass in front of the lake, his head pillowed in Riku’s lap, Sora was looking up at the stairs, laughing every now and again as La or Yue slithered over his stomach. Not too far away, Roxas and Axel were sitting, playing with the little Raptor-Lion they had named Xio, Axel dangling his robe sash in front of the other and chuckling when the cat batted it away. On the other side of the lake, Terra and Ven were laying down, their heads resting against Atteris’ flank, cuddled up against one another.

Aqua shook her head and chuckled, glancing back at Fuujin who she was holding hands with before leading her across the bridge. A bark signaled that they had been heard and everywhere looked back, but it was Invidia who approached them, her wings spread out and carefully balancing the tea tray on her back, presenting two cups to the newlyweds. There was a chuckle from both of them, before the two picked up the cups and Aqua saw fit to also lift off the tray. The rabbit-fox barked a thanks before trotting over to the couple in the middle, happily snuggled up against Riku’s leg. She had come a long way from that hate she held for him all those months ago.

The tray was set aside and Aqua and Fuujin joined them, settling close to the lake Aqua laying her head against Fuujin’s shoulder contently. For a time, they all just sat there, quiet, musing, admiring the quiet world around them and the warmth and beauty the oasis held. For once, Riku didn’t seem to mind the crowded atmosphere and the guardians seemed at peace.

“So…….” Aqua finally spoke, looking around at the crowd. “Riku told me what happened when he ‘came back’, and I told Fuujin all I know… but I’d like it if someone filled me in on the gaps.”
And so they did. They told about the experience in the cave, the things they had learned, the tricks Vanitas had played and of course the very dramatic fight that occurred. And then… Yue took them home.

Aqua nodded, remembering how Riku had ended up in his old home back in the Water Tribe, awakening to the calls of the family now living there. Though he no longer had his mother or father, the silverette was given a pleasant surprise as the family graciously offered him breakfast.

It was Axel who spoke up first, telling them about how he ended up back in the Sun Warrior Tribe, where the chief there recognized him. He told them about the long conversation he had had with the man, talking to him about the life he had had after he had left and the guilt he felt over the deaths of his parents. The chief was kind to him, as he always had been, telling him of how his mother and even his father had loved him, though grief could sometimes be consuming. When he spoke of his distaste in his own Nation though, the chief had Axel go through the trial to meet the masters Ran and Sho once again as he had many year ago when just a child. Faced with the red and blue dragons once more, this time they gave him not the wisdom of firebending, but the wisdom of what to do with the distraught nation that was still hurting many centuries after the war. That was where he got the crazy idea to overthrown Lord Huo. It was to Sora’s delight that he told them about the decrees he was already putting in place – including the ban of hunting rabbit-foxes. And Roxas gave him quite a kiss when he learned he had the guard searching and destroying all the underground animal fighting rings.

As for Terra, everyone was a bit curious about how his father had reacted at his return. He hadn’t been very happy, that was for sure, and he still stood by his words that he would not be living in his old home any longer… but he did tell him, that he was glad he was ‘fucking alive’. Knowing his dad, that was the best he was probably going to get for now but he said it was for the better… because now he had the opportunity to create his own home – and there were only two people he wanted to spend the rest of his life in it with – Atteris… and Ven.

For Sora, who was happy enough to speak next, he told them about how he certainly ended up back at his original home where he spoke to his grandfather Sorias. It turned out that, without a doubt, he was a Fire Nation child but had to be given to some traveling Air Nomads – to Monk Kazu in particular who had quit his travel and took him under his wing. His true name was Mishaal – but he wanted to be called Sora.

As for the twins… well, their welcome home had been perfect. It was Roxas they had recognized first, the blonde being swept up in hugs by either parents and doted over with dozens of question about where he had been and of the news traveling about him. It had almost been a bit much for the blonde who, ashamedly, was near to tears himself. He had not realized how much he truly missed home. So, he averted their attention to the near-bald boy they had not recognized – and Bryna wailed when she figured out it was her other son!

Now the real question was… what now?

Well, Aqua and Fuujin, of course, stayed in the Northern tribe to rule over the tribe. Working hand-in-hand with the Fire Nation, similar decrees were made when necessary, and though their elements were nearly opposite in every way their principles and hope for the future was not. As for the loving couple’s biggest ‘taboo’, their secret was never discovered, well guarded by the few who knew it. Luck had a hand in it as well, as not a year after their marriage; they were able to adopt a child. The woman who had birthed it had unfortunately lost her life and there was no father to raise him either. Tough they kept it no secret that he was adopted, pretty soon the whole tribe conveniently seemed to forget the fact as the little blue-haired boy they named Sanyi grew under their name. No one even seemed perturbed by him when he, as a four year old, once even called his silver-haired father ‘mama’. The council had laughed and some cooed at his cuteness, never once suspecting a thing.

As for Roxas, he went home with Axel, at the red-head’s side as he aided the Fire Nation back to their former glory. The twin swords, Oblivion and Oathkeeper were trained with often, the blonde still gloating he could take on any bender who dared oppose him – his lover and the Avatar notwithstanding. But… for the most part, the blonde fought no longer for pure glory, but merely for instruction. The rest of his time, he spent making coffea, or was with Axel helping him make new laws for the people to follow or going around town, singing to people – or more specifically, to the little fire-haired boy who owned a raptor-lion they had once saved. The boy was always out and about it seemed with his dear little Jax cuddling the lion like it was a stuffed toy. They never expected though when the boy became a more permanent part of their life though. It was so sudden when while they were discussing tilling rights for the field workers, Hanna came running into their office looking distraught as she explained there had been a disaster at the mines – one of them had collapsed. They didn’t find out until later that both of Roxel’s parents had been inside. Roxas and Axel found the boy the next day, sitting at the old training grounds where they usually met all alone and crying with Jax, and together returned with him and the raptor-lion in tow. Though they had a lot of hills to climb, they knew, together, they were going to become a very happy family.

Ventus returned to the Earth Kingdom with Terra where they got their home –ahem – lived in. They lived a simple life, Terra using his bending to get a good and honest job but a simple story of the war in time’s past was what truly got them started in life. Terra had told Ven the story because he had known that once the Northern temple had been lived in by people who were not air benders but used pressurized air in the mainly underground pipes built there to glide in the sky. This same inventor who had created it had also created the war balloons that alone stopped the invasion force on the Day of Black Sun. Ven’s eyes lit up though and the next day he found the blonde trying to create his own little war balloon. But not for fighting – no – he wanted it to be for those in the Air villages – no, the entire WORLD – who were like Roxas: People who dreamed of flying but never could because they were not air benders. And, with Terra’s help as he knew all the schematics thanks to his history books, together… they created their own hot air balloon company where people could fly like they’ve always dreamed. And one morning up there, so high and all alone… Terra proposed to Ven.

As for Sora…?
Well, his purpose was still to master all four elements…

So in the chamber of the Fire Nation Palace’s Agni Kai chamber, he got the most excellent tutorage from the Fire Lord himself, the flames burning hot but, if one approached it right and didn’t let the power overwhelm you, it could never hurt.
Up, high in the sky in a glorious air temple, he learned not from one but two teachers – one his best friend who returned for the occasion, the other an elder monk who the brunette looked at like a father – he completed the training he had started his life with, the wind lifting him so high he could touch the sky he lived in.
Across the ocean he went next, where his lesson could only take place at night on the frozen islands of ice on the turbulent waves, under the gaze of the chief herself, teaching him everything she had learned alone as well, the gaze of the moon making their power ever stronger.
And finally, to the Earth Kingdom he went one final time, where he and the earth-bending brunette he had once saved the life of taught him how to move and shape the land until there was nothing left for him to know.

But at his side, several never changed. Invidia, his loyal animal guide. La and Yue, the forever circling water snakes that were secretly the spirits of the ocean and moon. And Riku, the guardian of the spirits… and the man he dearly loved. And even as the years passed as he learned each element, this love never died.

As for Vanitas… well, Sora took another trip to the Spirit World but failed to find the dark spirit though, things seemed calm and right with the other worldly place. He was so sure he would never see or hear from the spirit again…

But one evening, when he was alone in the oasis he now called his home, Invidia, Yue and La his only company while Riku fetched them dinner, he was just watching the way the shadows stretched along the water and the wall of ice when they started to move… including his own. He got to his feet, seeming uncertain and confused when his own shadow lifted off the ground becoming three-dimensional before his very eyes.
“…Vanitas?” He questioned, seeing yellow eyes staring back at him… and then his shadow smiled and nodded. “Are things well… did you find a friend?”
The shadow nodded again, and then Invidia’s shadow lifted from the ground, the wings being morphed away as the creature stood on two legs, the long ears becoming longer and jagged, the front limbs much shorter. It still had a foxish appearance to it that made Sora smile though –maybe they really where reflections of one another. It twitched about strangely, it shadow a bit bluer in tint and its eyes oval shaped and red as it circled around the other before hopping up onto his head and curled up there. It was really… kind of cute even if it was a little twitchy.
“I’m glad! Any others?”
There was another nod and then the hand rose, and pointed right at the Avatar.
The brunette blinked in surprise, before he smiled in return, bowing to the other. “I’m honored.” He straightened though when he heard the sound of the door opening, signifying Riku has returned. He met the gaze of the shadow who waved to him. He waved in return. “Take care Vanitas!” The spirit looked back at him for a long time before smiling… and then disappeared.
“Hey,” Came a call behind him, making Sora turn. “Who were you talking to?”
“Hmm? Oh,” The brunette smiled going to help him with the food.

“Just a good friend.”

The End!