Chapitre 16: Tournament Part 3
Macai, Kett, Kanna, and Dade meet with each other again. Macai: "Wow, Kett, you looked amazing. As always."
Kett: "I know, but I couldn't have done half as well without all of you."
Kanna: "You sure about that? You seemed to be doing quite well on your own."
Dade: "That fight was so much more than I expected and I expected so much from it. You guys did moves that I've never even heard of. Even the seasoned soldiers had to take notes."
Kett: "I don't know. I really don't. I just did what I needed to. I just let everything flow."
Macai: "I can relate."
Kanna: "On to the next fights."
Later that day, Dade, Kett, and Macai wait as their friend Kanna prepares for her next fight. Dade: "She's going up against that guy Hakon. I hear he is something special."
Macai: "But I bet he's never fought a girl with as much heart and adaptability as Kanna."
Kett: "That guy rarely talks. I remember how he said nothing during the staredown."
Kanna stands in the arena across her opponent. Hakon, the Man of Fire. Announcer: "Here we go, ladies and gentlemen. The Man of Fire vs Killer Kanna. Who will emerge victorious? Let's find out." Hakon has a black shirt with silver stripes and black pants with silver stripes. Hakon has light skin, dark brown hair, a body of lean muscle, and amber eyes.
Hakon looks across at his opponent and gives her a silent stare. Kanna waves at him and smiles. Hakon doesn't change his reaction. Kanna: "Ok then, weirdo."
Announcer: "As you all know, Hakon is no ordinary bender. Let's see how Killer Kanna holds up against him. Fight."
Kanna moves in toward Hakon and Hakon slowly advances. They both briefly halt when they are about ten feet away from each other and analyze each other's movements. Kanna punches a dark orange flame at Hakon's right shoulder. Hakon blocks the attack with his left arm, and Kanna punches a second flame from her left fist toward the left side of Hakon's stomach.
Hakon tilts his body right as he pivots away from the attack. Kanna advances and pushes both of her hands, sending a powerful orange blast at her opponent's chest. Hakon kicks his right leg forward and a cherry red stream of fire collides with Kanna's attack. Smoke emits from the clash.
Dade: "Red fire?! That's the least hot type of fire there is. How did I not notice him before?"
Macai: "Apparently, he controls his flames very well. He works twice as hard as most of the other benders and is very accurate. His flames are always on point and he has a counter defensive style like Azula. He waits for his opponents to open up, then takes them down. Another thing I notice about him is his flames seem to be hotter than those of most benders."
Kett: "How is that? Orange flames are hotter than red."
Macai: "If you pay close attention, the center of his flames are white. White flames are hotter than everything but blue, while red is less hot than orange. So, he has a hotter core or source of his fire, but for some reason, most of his flame is less hot. I also noticed another special thing about him, his flames seem to have an average width. This is really interesting, because most people with red flame exteriors have an orange inner flame."
Macai continues, "Many people with orange flame exteriors have a yellow core flame. Although someone like Rosh has red and orange flames, his red flames extend further than most, therefore making them just as dangerous as most flames."
Kett: "That's really confusing. So his flames are probably about equal to my bright orange flames. Since they are a little hotter than most."
Dade: "Ok, this is getting too technical for me. Let's just enjoy the fight."
Kanna swings a horizontal right kick at Hakon, firing an orange flame at his left abdomen. Hakon raises a knee, blocking the flame. Hakon steps forward and extends his right arm, firing a red flame at Kanna's left shoulder. Kanna ducks and rises back on her feet. Then she lunges and kicks a flame at his neck. Hakon ducks, then leaps toward Kanna.
Kanna lifts her left leg and swings at Hakon with an inflamed roundhouse kick, aiming for the right side of his head. Hakon ducks. Kanna leaps and thrusts her inflamed right fist into Hakon's stomach. Sparks fly as Hakon leans forward from the force of the blow. The Man of Fire pushes Kanna back and shoots a brick of red fire at Kanna's chest.
Kanna rolls right, then rapidly punches two balls of fire at Hakon. Hakon slides left past the first blaze and raises his right arm, blocking the second one. Hakon thrusts his left hand forward and blows a massive red flame at Kanna's left arm. Kanna positions herself and shoves both of her hands forward as she parries the blast. The flame pushes her a foot back.
Hakon then moves and launches another red flame from his right fist. Kanna blocks it but is pushed back yet again. Hakon then shifts his hands from right to left as he jabs several flames at Kanna. Kanna moves her hands from side to side as she struggles to block them. Hakon's timing is sensational.
Kanna grunts, then leaps in the air and kicks a stream of fire at Hakon's face. She did not mean to attempt such a harmful attack, but did it in desperation. Hakon crosses his arms over his face, absorbing the flame. Kanna lands two feet left of Hakon's position. She immediately sprints toward him and Hakon readies himself.
Hakon punches two volleys of fire at Kanna's face. Kanna slides forward and kicks flames at Hakon's legs. Hakon jumps in the air over the flames and Kanna springs back on her feet. When Hakon lands, he ignites the ground and sends a stream of fire rolling toward Kanna's feet. Kanna lunges right and the fire swiftly evaporates due to the fire-resistant nature of the arena sand.
Kanna pumps both of her hands and zaps a rectangle of fire at Hakon. Hakon musters all his might and jumps over the fire. Then Kanna dives in the air and slams her right foot into Hakon's stomach. Hakon falls hard on his right shoulder and Kanna lands masterfully on her feet. Hakon rolls back to his feet and nods at Kanna in respect.
Kanna springs forward and fires three torpedoes of fire at Hakon. Hakon moves right to left, blocking each flame. Hakon then extends both of his arms and launches a massive beam of red fire at her. Kanna dives over the attack, but Hakon sprints and tackles her. Kanna falls hard and Hakon is over her.
Hakon ignites his right fist with red flames and pounds Kanna twice on the right side of her face. That side of Kanna's face turns pink from the punches. Kanna extends her right hand and latches onto her opponent's throat. Then Kanna wraps her left arm around Hakon's left arm. Kanna bends forward and launches Hakon off of her.
Hakon tumbles two feet forward in the sand and Kanna gets back on her feet. She quickly moves to battle position but is a bit dizzy from the recent exchange. Hakon immediately gets back on his feet and charges toward Kanna. He pumps his left fist, firing a flame at Kanna's head. Kanna quickly ducks and clinches her teeth.
Hakon fires another flame at Kanna with his right fist. Kanna ducks a second time. Instead of standing back up, Kanna stays crouched and presses both of her hands forward, then kicks a large stream of dark orange fire at Hakon's stomach. Hakon is caught off guard by the attack but manages to leap over the flames in the nick of time.
Kanna spins ahead and swats a flame from her right fist into Hakon's stomach while he is midair. Hakon is sent flying eight feet backward before he lands on his chest. The crowd cheers and Kanna politely kneels. Announcer: "Killer Kanna has done it again! Oh my, I don't believe this."
Kett peers at Macai. "Ok, now it's almost certain that two of us are going to end up against each other next. We've all made it to the Semi-Finals."
Macai: "Even worse, it going to happen twice if one of us wins the fight against the other bender."
Kett: "At least we all made it."
Dade: "Wish me luck on my quarterfinal non-bending fight."
Back in the Spotlight
The next day, Macai, Kett, and Kanna wait at a crowded arena as they prepare for the next match. Macai looks at Kett with a sorrowful face. Kett: "What is it?"
Macai: "I wish Azula were here. Apparently, she couldn't come."
Kett: "Wow really? She can't see any of your most important tests yet?"
Macai: "Apparently not. She wouldn't tell me why."
Kanna: "Macai, I would just wait until Azula has the time to explain it to you."
Kett: "Sounds like a sucker move to me."
Kanna: "Not necessarily. I think he should wait and see what's going on."
Macai: "I know she cares about me, there is a reason for it. I just know it."
Macai suddenly hears a familiar voice from the distance. "Well, at least you've got me."
Macai turns his head and shouts, "Rosh!" Rosh joins his friends in the stands and pumps his fist in the air.
Rosh stands with Palu beside him. "My dad was able to secure a hotel. We will be around, after all I still have one year left. I only skipped one grade; we all can't be overachievers like Macai."
Palu comments, "And we brought some others with us as well." Spinge and Barge join the group.
Barge: "My parents are coming too. And Spinge's mom. They'll be watching you during the fight. However, they can't come yet. They'll be here later as things get more serious."
Macai beams and sheds a tear of joy, "You guys really are the best friends a man could ask for."
Rosh nods his head, "And you will be a man soon enough. After you finish this test. I mean, your performance doesn't even matter. But it's just a formality to get that title after you graduate."
Macai dabs Rosh. Then he dabs hugs Palu. Spinge and Barge jump in the hug next, and they all laugh. Kett looks at Kanna, "Wow, Macai really is the man."
Kanna: "I can't argue with that."
Announcer: "Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you another epic fight. Devious Dade is back and ready for more action! But can he beat his deadliest opponent yet, the Brilliant Batuhan!"
Batuhan has a curved wooden sword and dark purple armor with several light green stripes. He also wears a dark purple battle mask. Batuhan points. "Dade! I've been waiting a long time for this day."
Dade: "Yeah buddy, a lot of people have. So you'll just have to get in line for your beatdown."
Announcer: "Fight!"
Bathuan charges at Dade with blinding speed. Bathuan dives toward Dade with a horizontal spinning attack. Dade weaves right and Bathuan advances toward his opponent. Bathuan swings horizontally at Dade's neck and Dade ducks. Bathuan is left exposed by the attempt. Dade swings vertically at Bathuan's face.
Bathuan swiftly rotates his weapon and locks his curved against Dade's. Dade struggles as he attempts to press his blade against Bathuan. In an instant, Bathuan thrusts his blade upward and Dade's wooden sword flies out of his hand. Dade gasps in surprise.
Kett: "No!" Bathuan backhands Dade and kicks him down. Dade collapses.
Announcer: "Oh no! Devious Dade has gone down! Who can stop Brilliant Bathuan?! He is off to the semi-finals!"
Macai is frozen and Rosh pats his friend in the back. Barge: "Gueez, well at least he made it this far."
Kett: "I'm starting to think that your arrival is the reason for his loss. Too much unexpected attention."
Macai darts his eyes at Kett. "Don't blame my friends. They had nothing to do with it. It was obviously his opponent's curved blade that threw him off. Maybe they never practiced a drill against someone with one."
Kett points at Macai. "Well not everyone can be as perfect as you!"
Macai: "What?"
Kett: "Yeah, you heard me. Perfect like you and your girl Azula. And a lot of you Capital nobles. The elite of the elite. Not everyone can train a thousand drills. Not everyone has the money, knowledge, or the connections to do it!"
Macai gasps. Kanna warns Kett, "Come on Kett. What are you saying? Macai has been a great friend. He can't control how he grew up."
Kett sighs. "I know. I'm sorry Macai. I-I don't know why I did that."
Spinge and Barge look at Kett with confusion. Kett: "Oh, are you both going to judge me too? Is that it?"
Spinge: "No, not at all. We have nothing against you, we just weren't ready for this."
Kett: "Well it's about time you left that bubble of a city."
Kanna: "Kett, you're making a fool of yourself."
Kett: "Who cares what RICH BOYS think? We win a few fights, but we'll never be treated like them, Kanna."
Kanna: "Kett, relax."
Macai moves behind Kett. "It's alright, Kett. I get it, I've known you for a while but only a year. But I've known you long enough to still understand why you are upset. I get that life isn't fair and you see that every day in Nyarri. I can't fix your past, but I can help you right here and right now. We can make things better in the future, but you already are."
Macai continues, "I get that Dade is your best friend and you didn't want to see him lose. While it seems that I am still winning, as your friend but also a privileged capital noble. Look how far you've gotten. Look how far, Dade's gotten. You both have done more than a lot of nobles. I know everything isn't fair, but I'll do what I can to make sure you get opportunities."
Kett exhales, "Well, we get opportunities in this town. Better than most standard soldiers, but still not like the nobles or Capital people."
Macai: "I can only do so much right now. But I might be able to do something with the people I know. You and I can also work on this matter as we rise in rank and prominence. Patience Kett, patience."
Kett: "Maybe things will be different with you. But Dade's father always had patience and it got him nothing. They sent him on the frontlines of a deadly battle and he lost his life. With next to nothing to return to his family. Now the mother struggles as a widow to support her son, but he's finally about to graduate. You have no idea how hard it's been for them, especially when he was younger."
Macai nods his head. Macai: "It's not right, but you've got to keep going. You've got to make the best of what you have Kett, and see the beauty in life. You know I'm here for you, despite our differences."
Kett looks at Macai, "I know. I'm sorry, I put this on you all. I'm sorry, it was just an outburst of built-up rage from all of these years. I wanted Dade to win the non-bender tournament so badly, I'm sorry. I admired you since the day I first saw you, Macai, because you stood out. People didn't like you because you were different, a spoiled noble in their eyes. But I knew you were one of the few nobles who truly has admirable qualities or at least one of the few nobles with those qualities that I've seen."
Kett continues, "But even here in Nyarri, you showed me that there are good nobles. I sat down and connected with nobles who I would have never spoken to. Because of Chiko's party and because of you. Please don't look at me like I'm a monster, I've been through so much for so long. And so many of the nobles in power at this town spit in my peoples' faces."
Rosh looks in surprise and looks at his father. Palu: "Don't worry son, let this play out."
Macai: "That's alright. It's ok, my friend. Hurdles like this only make friendships stronger."
Kett: "Thanks, Macai. You are a true friend. You care more about me than my own parents. That's part of why I'm so indifferent about some things and another reason I've been hurting. That may even be part of the reason that I lashed out at you."
Kanna: "Don't worry, you have us. I know we're not your real family, but we've got your back."
Barge blurts, "We do too."
Rosh scolds his friend. "Barge."
Barge: "Sorry, too soon."
Dade arrives on the stage with his trainer Oktai. Macai looks at Dade. "You had one heck of an attempt."
Dade: "You're darn right I did, and I made it to quarterfinals. No one in my family has ever done that. You know me Macai, I'm more than grateful for what I get. Maybe I'll do something even more spectacular during my career."
Kett: "I bet you will." Kett daps Dade up.
Okati: "We will need to practice drills for enemies with curved blades in the future, before his graduation. We will get it down, Dade is a fast learner. That way he will be ready if he faces such an opponent in the future."
Dade: "In the meantime, let's celebrate. All of us."
Barge points at himself. "Including me?"
Dade: "Including you, big guy."
Spinge pats Barge in the back. "Oh Barge, what would we do without you?"
Barge: "Good question."
Friends in Arms
The next day, Kanna stands in the dressing room as she prepares for her next opponent. Her parents Abel and Zefara are with her. Kanna: "I wonder who I'm going to be up against next. Kett, Macai, or that other guy?"
Abel: "It doesn't matter, Kanna. Just remember to do your best and don't hold back."
Zefara: "This may be a contest, but you must give it all you've got. We won't be upset with whatever the result is, but remember it's just the nature of the contest."
Kanna's trainer, Melana interrupts, "Ok I'm going to have to ask your parents to enter the press conference room. We need to go over one last thing before your conference." Melana has long black straight hair, tan skin, hazel eyes, pointy ears, a moderately muscular body, and a bell-curved nose.
Zefara: "We love you, Kanna." Kanna's parents exit.
Melana: "Ok Kanna, I need you to focus." Kanna nods her head. Melana: "Remember that this is a FIGHT. Do not hold back against Kett. I don't care if he's your best friend. I don't care how long you've known him. Take him down, at all costs."
Kanna nods her head. Melana: "I hope you're serious."
Kanna: "Don't worry. I'll give it my all. And apologize after I win, that is if I win."
Melana: "We don't have a what-if mindset in here. You WILL WIN. Say it!"
Kanna: "I will win."
Melana: "Say it with conviction!"
Kanna: "I WILL WIN!!"
Melana: "Again!"
Kanna: "I WILL WINN!!!"
Melana: "Good. Now get out there and own that stage!"
Kanna walks on the stage with Kett across her. Her face looks fierce and she looks like a battle-ready warrior. Kett has his ordinary nonchalant look that he shows with all of his opponents. However, noticing Kanna's abnormally intense demeanor throws him off.
Kett grins. "Hey Kanna, it's me, Kett. Did your trainer put you up to this?"
Kanna crosses her arms. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Kett: "Don't play that with me."
Kanna ignores Kett and looks the other way. Kett: "We're going to have a staredown soon, Kanna, and you're not playing the part." Kanna quickly readjusts and stares intensely at Kett. Kett looks back at her with dreamy eyes and Kanna gets a bit nervous. She blushes.
Kett smiles. Melana looks annoyed in the distance. Kanna glances in the crowd and changes her reaction. Kanna looks at Kett in a combative way again. Kett: "Ok, I'll play along." Kanna doesn't change her reaction this time and she takes a deep breath.
A Fire Nation soldier enters the stage. "Time for the faceoff." Kett makes a serious face and looks at Kanna. Kanna grimaces and looks at him. After ten seconds, they are dismissed.
Melana regroups with her student, "At first, you were not doing as I asked you, but you seemed to patch it up at the end."
Kanna replies, "So I'm not in trouble?"
Melana: "No, you're fine. But don't do it again. Stay in character the entire time during the arena match. Until it is over. Then you can be polite again." Kanna nods her head.
Friends in Arms
Announcer: "On the left, we have a daring and tenacious young warrior. She is smart, agile, and she's meaner than she looks. Introducing... Killer Kanna!" The crowd cheers and several of Kanna's new fans shout her name.
Kanna enters on the left side of the arena and takes a deep breath. She kneels and grabs a fist full of sand, then slowly lets the sand roll off her hands. Dade looks from the distance with Macai and his friends. Rosh asks, "Why is Kanna playing in the sand?"
Barge "It's probably just for show."
Announcer: "On the right, we have a warrior who is smooth, patient, strong, and knows how to take some heat. He is, the Messenger!" The crowd erupts again and several of Kett's fans shout his name.
Rosh (to Macai): "Looks like you can't pick sides."
Macai: "Are you going to pick sides?"
Rosh: "No, I was just saying."
Barge: "Can I?"
Macai: "Yeah, why not? Just don't tell them after."
Dade: "Uh oh."
Barge: "I want Kanna to win."
Macai jokingly says, "I'm guessing that last conflict with Kett influenced your decision."
Dade asks, "What outburst?"
Macai thinks, Oh cabbage. I forgot that Dade didn't see that incident. Better not to tell him.
Spinge: "It's no big deal. Just a little banter between us all."
Barge: "No, I just think Kanna's funny."
Spinge: "Fine, then I'll root for Kett."
Kanna looks across at Kett and Kett looks back at her with uneasiness. Announcer: "Fight!"
Kanna sprints toward Kett and Kett rapidly darts two bright orange flames at Kanna. Kanna shifts her hands left to right as she blocks them. Kett bolts another two flames at Kanna, and she parries them. Then Kanna counters and launches a flame from her right foot toward Kett's left abdomen. Kett panics and horizontally lowers his left arm, barely blocking the shot in time.
Kanna pumps a second shot at Kett's face. Kett ducks then thrusts both of his arms forward, blasting a massive brick of light orange fire at his friend. Kanna dives left and slides in the sand as she narrowly avoids the explosion. Kett readjusts and Kanna flips back on her feet. Kett pounds two torpedoes of fire at Kanna and Kanna slides forward (performing one of her signature moves).
Kanna springs back on her feet and lifts her right hand upward, firing an upward stream of flames at Kett. Kett spins backward and crosses his arms over his head to block the tip of the attack. Kett shifts his arms and hurts another brick of fire at Kanna. Kanna flips forward over the shot and closer to Kett. As gravity hurls her down, she pulls back her right fist which is suddenly inflamed with dark orange fire.
Kanna then glides her hand forward and directs a dark orange missile at Kett. Kett dives low, past the explosion and rolls forward. The explosion still indirectly knocks him three feet further than he dove and Kanna lands a few feet past the blast. Kett scrambles to his feet and turns around but sees nothing but smoke behind him.
Kett braces himself and trusts his senses. Kett suddenly hears a burst of dark orange flames from his right flank. Kett pivots his body and rapidly blocks three massive dark orange flames. Each one knocks him a few inches back. Kanna leaps low and kicks both of her feet forward toward Kett's chest. This generates a massive power shot of dark orange flames.
Kett raises his arms to block the shot but is knocked five feet back from the impact. Kett tumbles in the dirt and Kanna briskly advances toward Kett. She stops just as she is a few feet away from him and aims her fists at her longtime friend. Kett was never the fastest at getting up, but that doesn't mean he isn't still dangerous.
Kett climbs up on his knees and thrusts both of his hands forward. Kett fires a large square of fire at Kanna. Kanna leaps over the flame and horizontally punches a flame at Kett's face. Kett lifts his arms over his face and crosses them. His arms absorb the shot. Kett flips off his knees and tackles Kanna. Kett is known for his unusual grappling skills, which is rare everywhere outside of the Earth Kingdom.
Kett falls hard on Kanna as the 170-pound boy goes crashing down on her. Kett grabs ahold of Kanna and rapidly pulls her up. Kanna ignites her left fist and swings it at Kett's gut. Kett speedily maneuvers behind Kanna and wraps his left arm around the girl's right fist. Kett then wraps his right arm around Kanna's neck. Kett then trips Kanna with his left leg and falls backward, bringing Kanna down with him.
Kanna struggles and wiggles side to side as she tries to break free, but Kett tightens his grip and muscles. While this is happening Rosh comments, "It's not looking good for Kanna. Kett is pretty ripped."
Barge: "Who knew he was going to try something like that? Out of all the fights I've seen with benders, not one of them used wrestling moves."
Rosh: "And he uses it in a way that keeps people from bending."
Macai: "It's just brilliant. I might need to study that a little more myself."
Spinge: "You can't let him have his own signature moves?"
Macai: "He'll always be the best at what he does. But I can still learn from him just as he can learn from me."
Rosh: "Yeah, Spinge. You're a non-bender, but the power of friendship is relevant to everyone."
Kanna passes out from the grappling. Kett lets her go and stands up. A few of the audience members boo Kett for using his wrestling and grappling moves. Kett shrugs his shoulders.
Announcer: "Well, I was definitely not expecting something like that. I've only seen that attempted two other times. The first time it worked and the second time the person who tried to wrestle got himself lit up. But the messenger seems to be sending us a very important message: use all your tools. He certainly knows how to do it; I think he's been practicing."
Barge looks at Spinge. Barge: "It's a good thing we didn't bet anything."
Spinge: "For you, yes. Next time let's bet. I'm tired of winning against you with no reward."
Barge: "Yeah, whatever. If he didn't try his grappling, he would have lost."
Spinge: "Excuses and you don't know that."
Barge: "Ok, well they're both our friends anyway."
Spinge: "Yeah, even though we barely know them. But I agree."
Rosh: "A friend of Macai is a friend of mine. But I have met them a little earlier."
Barge: "Says the guy who hates his girlfriend."
Rosh: "That doesn't count. Girlfriend is more like a partner, but not a traditional friend."
While the gang are talking in the bleachers, Kett chats with Kanna in the arena. Kett: "I'm sorry, but good fight."
Kanna: "No worries, I know my family will be proud. Semi-finals isn't so bad. I'll still be one of the top-rated firebender recruits this year. Probably in the one-hundred or so. Nyarri is a high-ranked tournament."
Kett smiles. "Yep. We all have done a lot and it's getting towards the end. You might even be placed in the top thirty or so, you know they rate it differently each year. Especially since we have a stacked tournament with a lot of high-ranked competitors. You beat two or three people who would have won the tournaments in a lot of other cities."
Kanna: "And you beat me and Alev. I knew you were going to be a challenge."
Kett: "Well, styles make fights. You were a different kind of challenge."
Kanna: "Alright, let's meet up with the others." While they are talking several children and younger high schoolers rush down the arena.
Boy: "Hey, can I get your autograph, Kanna!"
Kanna chuckles, "Yeah sure." Most of the children rush toward Kanna but a couple of them approach Kett.
A large boy with curly light brown hair and a brown skinned boy with straight black hair approach Kett. Brown boy: "Hey, Kett. Can we get your autograph?"
Large boy: "Yeah, we really liked your wrestling, and we love seeing you fight."
Kett: "Sure thing."
One Final Hurdle
Macai goes on to demolish his next opponent and soon the Nyarri finals are scheduled. It is Macai vs Kett. Dozens of people wait in the crowd during the press conference. Many elites throughout the Fire Nation and several officials from the council arrive. Meanwhile, Kett is sitting nervously in his room and his trainer Zen Hou pats him on the back. Kett: "I know I've fought a friend before, but this feels different. Macai has all those nobles watching him now."
Zen Hou: "They're also watching you."
Kett: "I know he'll bring the heat, but so will I. I just can't help but wonder how much pressure he is facing."
Zen Hou: "We all face pressure. People may not expect you to win nationally, but here in Nyarri, you have a lot of people rooting for you. You are not just fighting for yourself, you're fighting for all the non-nobles who were told that they will never be as great as royals. You are giving so many people hope and inspiring so many. You have outperformed several royals who had much more high-level training than you."
Kett: "If I win, then I can make sure that more people like me are looked at as opportunities."
Zen Hou: "You've already done that and you must continue to do that after this fight. However, a win will take the movement even further. Think of what this means to people who have been ignored or underestimated for most of their lives. It is the best for this nation that we develop the most talented people and don't only focus on the privileged."
Kett: "He is literally the golden boy. Golden fire, Azula's boyfriend, son of a famous General, and so much more. He was humbled during the Winter Olympics, but maybe he could use a little more humbling. After all, humility makes us all better leaders."
Zen Hou: "Indeed, but we all need humility, even you. Just remember to stay focused and analyze his movements. If it comes down to it, use your grappling movements to throw him off. Also, use your massive flame shots to throw him off. He seems to be more tactical so don't let him stay on the outside."
Meanwhile, Macai talks with Hazo in another room. Hazo: "You've finally made it to the big leagues, Macai. Now you're up against one of your closest friends."
Macai nods his head. "Kett is a good guy. At least it's not Rosh. But I feel for him, he's not had these kinds of opportunities. This is his ticket into a new life."
Hazo: "He's already made it further than he ever has before. Unlike your father, I know what it's like. Remember I wasn't a top-level noble. I just had it a little better than most. I got by with Eyre by listening to his instructions, following orders, being smart, and doing my job well. Some leaders are more generous. I've heard stories about how General Iroh was kind to his men and allowed them to advance based off their merits. He also helped some of his soldier's families."
Macai: "That's commendable."
Hazo: "Indeed, you can continue this tradition Macai. Your father was fair, for the most part. But you can be so much more."
Macai: "Definitely, I heard my father is attending the event."
Hazo: "He is. That sure will be something, won't it."
Macai walks on the stage and Kett arrives on the other side. Announcer: "Special guest, General Eyre has arrived. Let's have a special round for applause for him." The audience claps for the General. Macai turns his head and notices Eyre in the audience in his military uniform. Macai smiles and waves at his father, but his father does not react.
Kett: "You might want to stay focused on this fight."
Macai: "Oh don't worry, I will be."
Kett: "I know it's going to be a good one."
Macai: "You are right about that. Best of luck to you."
Kett: "To you as well."
The staredown ends and they both are escorted to their rooms. Rosh, Kanna, Dade, Spinge, Barge, and Palu watch the fight from the distance in the stands. Rosh: "My guy Macai is really making me proud. I can't wait to see this one."
Dade looks in the background and sees General Eyre watching the fight in a private section with two Fire Nation soldiers beside him. Dade: "Wow, he has cool armor."
Kanna (to Rosh): "How did Zuko do in the Fire Nation Capital tournament before he got banished?"
Rosh: "He did well. He made it to the quarter-finals."
Kanna: "Did his father at least give him credit for that?"
Rosh: "No, he wanted him to win the whole thing."
Dade: "That is ridiculous. It takes a lot of skill to even make the quarter-finals. What kind of reality is he living in? Giving Zuko no credit might only make him worse."
Rosh: "I know, but he is the Fire Lord. Surely one with the divine right to rule must know something right."
Palu: "I'd hate to interrupt, but having the divine right to rule does not make someone perfect. Even Fire Lords can make mistakes. The best Fire Lords are humble in demeanor and willing to learn from those around them."
Spinge: "I bet a lot of people would debate with you about that one."
Palu: "Indeed, but that doesn't change the fact. You all will learn, eventually. If you walk with open eyes."
Announcer: "Special announcement. We have a special guest who arrived at the last minute, and he is making his way to the private section. This one is really going to get everyone's attention."
Kanna turns around and notices masses of people outside of the stadium. Kanna: "Wow, it's really crowded, even for a Nyarri tournament. We usually book out the arena and have some people waiting outside who can't afford tickets. We also get visitors, but rarely this many."
Palu: "Maybe they're here for the guest."
Kanna gasps. "I wonder who it could be. Who would attract such a large crowd?"
Rosh: "Someone VERY popular."
Announcer: "Please welcome Fire Lord Ozai!"
Rosh, Kanna, Spinge, Barge, and Dade freeze. Palu nods his head. Dade: "Is he here for..."
Rosh: "Macai. He wants to see how he fights."
Palu: "I suppose he believes that he should know just how good he is. Especially if he wants to date his daughter. And Macai isn't some normal boyfriend, he is a potential husband. With his qualities, Ozai would want to groom him and see if he is an acceptable partner."
Ozai enters in his dark red robes with two royal Fire Nation guards and sits near General Eyre and his guards. Dade: "Well, hopefully, Macai doesn't have a heart attack from all of that pressure."
Rosh: "True, but Macai is used to being watched by many people. He actually once choked as a child during a performance and his father made him train intensely after that failure. From that moment on, he never seemed to fail."
Palu: "The stakes of this tournament are still much greater than that."
Rosh: "I know, we'll just have to see."
Announcer: "On the right side, we have the man with the golden flames. I present to you the Battlemaster!"
Macai enters the arena and looks up at Eyre. Eyre looks back at him. Macai then looks up and notices Ozai. Macai immediately looks down, being overwhelmed by all of the pressure. He immediately gets intense chills and looks around the arena. First he looks down at the sand, then he looks up at the sky.
Announcer: "But will they be enough to defeat the messenger?!" Kett enters from the left side of the arena. Kett enters calmly and without giving anything away. Kett looks up at Kanna and his friends. Then he looks back down at his opponent and friend. Meanwhile, Macai is still looking up in the air.
Macai knows Ozai and Eyre must be questioning his actions. After all, Fire Nation elites are known for heavily analyzing people. But that won't matter if Macai wins. But Macai decides to not worry about losing either and to leave it to destiny. Macai takes a deep breath and briefly closes his eyes. Then Macai opens his eyes and enters his battle stance early.
He looks across at Kett, not as a friend, not as a hated enemy, but as an opponent and the only thing standing between him and his father's approval. Kett looks at Macai, then enters his battle stance. Kett exhales and thinks, Ok, here goes. Stay focused, Kett, and make all the people like me proud in Nyarri. But not just in Nyarri, but all the people like me throughout the Fire Nation.
Announcer: "The time is finally here. Fight!"
[ "The Trials"- Halo 5 Guardians OST (Music Starts) ]
Kett slowly strolls toward Macai in his battle stance and Macai slowly moves toward Kett as well. Macai then lunges at his companion and kicks his right leg at Kett's stomach. A powerful gold flame flies at Kett and Kett pivots left.
Ozai's eyes widen and he looks at his guards, "How come no one told me he can produce gold fire?! Eyre, did you know this?"
Eyre calmly replies, "No, I did not. I have not been here in a long time. I only visited once before, briefly."
Ozai takes a breath, "Well, it seems my methods have been working. I told you that difficult circumstances bring out the best in the strong."
Kett slowly moves forward and realizes that Macai is testing him. Macai likes to study his enemies' fight patterns before he takes them down. Azula also does this, and she does it even better than Macai. Though Macai is a good brawler and a better brawler than Azula, he relies on a balanced fighting approach of measure and aggression. Kett knows that he has a better chance against Macai if he can overwhelm him and use his unpredictable fighting attacks.
The only issue is that Macai is also unpredictable. Kett lifts his arms and creates a large ball of fire, then chucks it at Macai's chin. Macai immediately slides his arms forward and pounds a beam of gold fire into the ball. It explodes and creates a stream of fog around the arena. Rather than waiting for Kett, Macai decides to rapidly fire gold flames throughout the arena.
Eventually, Kett charges through the smoke and blocks an incoming flame with his left hand. Then Macai notices Kett's exact position. He readjusts and focuses on him. Macai fires a second flame from his right hand at Kett's left side. Kett pivots his body to the right to avoid the shot and Macai fires low with a shot at Kett's right knee.
Kett leaps over the blast and kicks a flame from his right leg at Macai's stomach. Macai flips over the flame and points both of his legs at Kett's chest, releasing a massive beam of gold fire. Kett crosses his arms and blocks the shot but is sent flying ten feet back in the sand. Kett gets a friction burn on his right elbow as he rolls backward, and it reddens.
Kett jumps back on his feet, but Macai keeps his distance and takes note of Kett's lacking defense. Macai then bolts a rapid volley of four gold flames at Kett. Kett gallops forward and moves his arms laterally, quickly blocking each shot and his defense seems to be getting better. Soon Kett is only seven feet away from him. Macai raises an eyebrow in astonishment but remains focused.
Macai pulls his right arm back and generates a gold fire whip, then swings it horizontally at Kett's ankles. Kett hops over the whip and pumps both of his fists forward, punching wo bright orange fireballs at Macai's chest. Macai blocks both of the flames, then shifts his right arm and chucks a ball of fire at Kett's face.
Kett ducks, then swiftly raises his head. Kett shifts his arms forward and shoots a beam of light orange-yellow flames at Macai. Macai jumps left and charges toward Kett. Macai immediately zaps two gold fire torpedoes at Kett. Kett lowers his left arm and blocks the first flame. Kett crosses his right arm over his face and blocks the second flame.
Kett thinks, That's right, keep coming toward me, Macai. Kett shifts and pulls both of his arms back, then horizontally tosses an explosive ball of fire at Macai's chest. Macai zooms over the attack and kicks a rod of fire out of his right leg. Kett blocks the flame, then dives toward Macai. Macai spins backwards and shifts both of his hands forward.
Macai shoves a stream of gold fire into Kett's chest and elegantly lands backward. Kett is sent flying seven feet away. Kett tumbles in the dirt. Kett slowly gets up and his armor is covered in sand. Macai slowly advances toward Kett and Kett re-enters his battle stance. Macai sighs, knowing the fight may only get more brutal, but Kett really wants the victory.
Kett: "Come on!" Kett rapidly thrusts his arms and jabs two fire torpedoes at Macai. Macai sprints and leaps left of the flames, then sprints forward again. Kett shoots another two fast flames at Macai and the noble leaps right, then continues to move toward his opponent. Kett presses both of his hands together and zaps a ray of bright orange fire at Macai from his right hand.
Macai sprints past the flames and returns fire with a beam of gold flames at Kett. Kett immediately pulls up a wall of bright orange fire over his body to absorb the blow. Macai's golden fire penetrates the wall and creates a small explosion that knocks Kett two feet back. Kett stands back on his feet and unloads a barrage of four rapid flames at Macai.
Macai uses jet propulsion to launch himself off the ground and flip directly behind Kett. Kett ignites his right fist, then turns around and sprays a beam of fire at Macai's face. Macai leaps over the flames and attempts to land behind Kett again. But just as he soars over Kett, Kett jumps up and grabs Macai's legs, then tosses the prospect backward.
Macai tumbles five feet away in the sand, then gets up and dusts himself off a little. Kett: "We're not done yet." Macai smiles and gives Kett a beckoning call.
Ozai looks at Eyre. "I kind of like that Kett kid."
Eyre: "Indeed, he seems to be a worthy adversary."
Macai skips forward and fires two rapid golden flames at Kett. Kett moves his arms side to side as he blocks them both. Macai then aims low and throws an upper gold ball of fire at Kett's stomach. Kett swivels right, narrowly avoiding the shot. Macai swiftly aims his hands at Kett's face and unleashes a gold torrent of fire.
Kett quickly slides left and then throws a ball of fire at Macai. Macai rolls forward, then swiftly raises his feet and lifts both of his hands. This sends a thin wave of gold fire hurling towards Kett. Kett flips right and fires another two shots of bright orange fire at Macai's head. Macai crouches, rises, and sprints forward, as he closes into melee range.
Macai ignites his right leg with gold sparks and kicks Kett in his left leg. Kett turns left and grunts. Macai extends his arms forward and launches a gold rectangle of fire at his friend. Kett turns and looks back at Macai as he gets nailed with the power shot. Kett slides back three feet, unconscious. Announcer: "That's it, the Battle Master has done it! He has won the Nyarri Tournament!"
(music stops)
The crowd explodes in a round of applause. Macai looks around him and takes everything in. Macai knows that this is the biggest victory of his life, but he also knows that more and bigger victories will come if he stays focused. The crowd throws red roses into the stadium to show their respect to his performance and Kett slowly gets up.
Kett extends his right hand. "Congrats, Macai. You did it and I'm proud of you."
Macai: "I know this meant a lot to you."
Kett: "And I know this meant a lot to you as well. We both fought our hearts out and what was meant to happen happened. We have a long way to go on our journeys, I have no doubt about that."
Rosh, Springe, Barge, Palu, and Kanna rush down the right side of the stadium to meet with their friends. While this is happening, Eyre and Ozai move across the left side of the stadium with their Fire Nation guards. Eyre: "Macai."
Macai turns around and locks eyes with his father. Eyre: "That was an excellent display you put on. Your graduation is imminent. Soon, we will discuss what's next for you and your career in the Fire Nation. In the meantime, I suggest you get some rest and have a great celebration."
Macai asks, "Will you be able to celebrate with me?"
Eyre: "I'm afraid not, not yet. However, I will return after your official graduation, and I will watch you again if you are at the National Firebending Finals. You will be competing against city champions next, but with this performance, I know you're ready."
Ozai: "You even impressed me, Macai. That's a rare feat. You should consider yourself honored."
Macai: "You know I am."
Ozai: "Good, sometimes I wish my son could be more like you, Macai. But it is what it is. Azula should be able to attend if you make it to the national championship fight. Which I know you are fully capable of."
Macai nods his head. Macai: "Thank you for coming to see me."
Ozai: "Of course, now I must be on my way. I have much business to handle but it was enjoyable to be here. So thank you, for not wasting my time." Ozai leaves.
Eyre: "You did well, Son. You have brought much honor to our family." Eyre exits.
Rosh and Macai's friends move in behind him. Rosh: "Well, that was something else. Now let's have a celebration, Nyarri champ!" Macai and his friends go on to have an amazing celebration. Barge and Spinge's parents enter the celebration. Macai's mother, Yosari, also takes part in the celebration.
A month later, Macai meets with Hazo in his backyard. It is during a beautiful sunset and the sky is golden. Hazo: "And breathe out." Macai exhales.
Hazo: "Excellent, you have done well and have grown so much. Of all my students, you are the most impressive."
Macai respectfully bows before his trainer. "I wouldn't have done it without your help or that of many others."
Hazo: "Of course, and congratulations on your victory during the National Championship."
Macai: "Thanks, Hazo. To be honest, every fight was easier after my clash with Kett."
Hazo: "He is something special."
Macai: "Do you think he would have won if I wasn't in it?"
Hazo replies, "There is no way to know for certain. Kett definitely got better when he was working with you, although he was always gifted and brought something unique to the table."
Macai: "It was great seeing Azula again." Macai has a brief flashback and sees himself in the Capital arena immediately after his victory.
Macai runs and hugs Azula after defeating his last opponent. Macai: "How'd I do?"
Azula: "You did very well. I'm impressed, Macai, but I also kind of expected it."
Macai rubs his right hand across Azula's hair. Azula: "Hey, stop it, Macai. I've got to maintain my formal appearance for the crowd." Macai transitions his hand to Azula's waist.
Macai: "Is that better?"
Azula smiles, "Yes." Azula pokes Macai on his nose, "We should celebrate and go to a nice bar on Ember Island. You and me, stay for the weekend. We'll have so much fun, Macai."
Macai: "Absolutely, you know I'm down for that. You have one more year right? I know you are ahead."
Azula: "That's right. You missed my thirteenth birthday, but it's ok. I'll let you slide only because of these ridiculous circumstances."
Macai: "And you missed my Nyarri Championship fight."
Azula becomes uneasy, "Macai, I wanted to go. But I just couldn't."
Macai: "Why?"
Azula; "Ok, but you must leave this between us two."
Macai: "Why? Why can't it be left in the open for everyone?"
Azula warns, "Promise me."
Macai: "Ok, I promise."
Azula: "My father told me, at the very last minute that I had to attend a formal event. That is essential to every princess at thirteen. There I met with several notable female leaders within the Fire Nation. The very next day he had me meet with several male leaders. I know our traditions but, I swear I've never heard of Princess Inauguration Day before. But he told me it's kept in secret by royal family leaders, something just seemed off about it."
Macai smiles, "You think he just made it up?"
Azula protests, "Of course not. It just came at the last minute, but you know I would have been there."
Macai asks, "Why don't you want me to tell people about this?"
Azula explains, "My father doesn't like me telling people about our personal business. Especially not if it's something that relates to him."
Macai: "Did he keep Zuko from telling certain personal things as well?"
Azula: "Do you really think my father would tell Zuko anything important? Come on, Cai, you're smarter than that."
Macai: "Not for the most part, but sometimes it happens with family. Especially the royal family."
Azula: "Maybe a little, but you know how Zuzu is. Almost every time he is entrusted with something, he messes it up."
Macai: "Well, after a year we will both have graduated. Then maybe we can get together again somehow, some way."
Azula: "I can visit you in the meantime. But our duties will likely be separate."
Macai: "One step at a time, we will work this thing out. It's always more than a pleasure to see you, Zula."
Azula's tone rises. "All the same to you, Cai." Macai locks lips with Azula as the sun descends. Suddenly, Macai's flashback ends, and he looks back at Hazo. Then Macai takes a breath.
Hazo: "There will just be a bit more training after this, now that you have graduated. Then you will be assigned to the unit that you will serve. You've done a lot so far, all at fourteen. I know your father will get you a connected position. I think you'll be given a role that is a bit above a standard lieutenant."
Macai: "I can't wait to prove myself and honor my nation. I've been waiting for this for all of my life."
Hazo slowly nods his head, "I know you have, and you deserve it. I know you'll do a phenomenal job."
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone