Chương 9: False Idol
The blades clashed endlessly. Both Mayumi and Otsuyu have been fighting for more than an hour, neither refusing to admit defeat. At first, the three onlookers are excited by the martial prowess demonstrated by the two swordswomen. But now, the fight has become rather repetitive, boring even.
As the duel is still ongoing, only Momiji at least appeared somewhat interested. The young giantess has her face concealed by a terrifying red mask. There is no telling what she is even thinking. The eccentric Okiku demonstrates an unhealthy obsession with her porcelain plate, already lost all focus on the sparring match.
As for the youngest trainee, in typical fashion, Satchiko has fallen asleep on the porch after a good meal. Her loud snoring competes with the sound of steel blades clashing.
"As expected of the successor to the renowned Akahana," Otsuyu gritted her, parried a swift strike from her opponent and jumped a few steps back to create some distance. "She has taught you well in using the sword."
"Your praises are too generous, I too have never fought someone with such proficiency besides my seniors," Mayumi responded with equal courtesy and respect. "But I must clarify that my aunt also taught me how to hold the blade."
"Regardless, you are quite the worthy opponent," Otsuyu said with a smile.
In an act that surprised Mayumi, Otsuyu lowered her weapon, deciding to end this sparring match that have lasted for more than one hour. Since this is just an informal duel to test each other's strength, there is no need to take this so seriously. Both are perhaps equally skilled, and there isn't much incentive to continue.
Mayumi also sheathed her own blade. After concluding this spar, they all turn to see two women walking to the storage area. Momiji tried to wake the napping Satchiko by gently poking the head. Not effective at all.
"Lady Oiwa, Lady Akahana," Otsuyu addressed the two with their esteemed titles.
The four youngsters bowed as the two arrived, with Satchiko still snoring on the porch.
"You two fought well," Akahana said to Mayumi and Otsuyu. She turned to the latter, praising the one who taught Otsuyu in the ways of combat. "I always knew your mother would raise a great disciple. But seeing it for myself is even better."
Otsuyu thanked the matron's affirmation.
Oiwa smiled secretly behind Akahana's back, nodding repeatedly. She is savoring every word that praises one of her finest Kyoshi Warrior.
"The day is still young, but it seems that the meeting is coming to an end," Akahana can judge the time by looking at the position of the sun. She strolled over to Satchiko, gently waking her daughter with a few pats across the shoulder.
The youthful trainee snapped out of her slumber.
"W-what did I miss?" Satchiko quickly rubbed her eyes, inquiring who won the duel between Mayumi and Otsuyu.
"Between two Kyoshi Warriors, honor in a duel isn't as important as it sounds," Akahana said in a rather cryptic manner. "I hope you can also have the same attitude to your fellow sisters."
"Huh?" Satchiko does not yet understand the nature of those words. Considering her mother is strongest Kyoshi Warrior of the present, that sentence can mean many things.
But there is something else that captivated all their attention. A hawk with brown feathers is standing on Akahana's shoulder. Furthermore, the woman also holds a rolled-up parchment, definitely something new.
…
The doors to the meeting hall slid open. Men and women filed out, loudly murmuring and still discussing their own opinion on today's agenda. An unprovoked act against three of their fishermen is a serious issue, especially if the instigators are alleged to be people from the state of United Republic.
So far, they are still undecided on an appropriate response. Some suggested to send a small delegation to Republic City, aiming to resolve this incident diplomatically.
Hakaru compiled the written pages that recorded today's written dialogue. As a scribe, his ability to write makes him useful in gatherings like this one, documenting what everyone said so that it can be used for future reference.
"Take a break, kid," the elder suggested. He sat on a mattress on the ground, offering undistilled millet wine contained in lacquered ware.
Despite being a lover of tea, Hakaru did not refuse the old man's invitation. Living here for years made him understand that the locals often never drink wine alone, both for cultural and spiritual reasons.
He sat down, accepting a small cup of millet wine.
The elder sighed, tired after another day of hosting the meeting between all the villages. The same also applies to Hakaru, whose hands felt sore after intensive writing. The debates can be rather speedy and emotional. While the moderator has a difficult time controlling the conduct of the attendees, it is also a great challenge to record every spoken word on paper. Both of them having a bit of wine wouldn't do any harm.
"They say that a drop of wine in our world would mean a whole barrel in the spirit world," the elder said in a slightly drunken manner. "But to me, sharing wine with another is one of life's greatest gifts."
"Agree." Unlike the older chief, Hakaru struggles to remain sober. He doesn't even enjoy the taste of wine. But drinking it will inevitably make his mind more tired.
But one issue still weights heavy on their minds. If the people who hijacked the fishing boat is indeed from the United Republic, why did it happen in the first place? It is well known that their navy is unparalleled on this world, but why would they travel so far to here?
In standard procedure, many elders proposed to send a small group of representatives to their capital in an attempt to resolve this matter. Other than that, there is not much else that can be done. The world has gone without an Avatar for many years. Without an intermediary, what other options are even available? They are just a small island without much power.
Akahana arrived inside the hall. Noticing that Hakaru is slightly drunk, she grabbed him by the waist.
"Hey, he left his backpack," the elder called out. "And his writing kit, don't forget that."
"We will be back tomorrow anyway," Akahana said. "Just leave them here." She carried him out on one shoulder. With the conclusion of today's meeting, most people already headed home.
On the way, Satchiko held the messenger hawk as she 'reads' the letter held by Mayumi. With some helpful assistance from the older sister who reads the words out loud, the content of the scroll detailed an invitation to Ba Sing Se university.
"This is a great opportunity, sister!" Mayumi reacted enthusiastically. The letter from Xuan Zang invites any Earthbenders that live on the island to study at Ba Sing Se, perhaps the most prestigious learning institution of the Earth Kingdom. It is said to be a place that have cultivated some of history's most capable Earth Sages besides the learning institution of Omashu.
Satchiko unfortunately did not share that sentiment. Despite being often naive, the teenager is fully aware that her own sister would not be able to capitalize on this once in a lifetime opportunity. Being a non-bender, Mayumi's more academic skills won't be accepted based on the letter's requirements, an issue that is hard to be receptive about.
"Daughter," Akahana said to Satchiko, carefully treading the mountainous path as Hakaru is still drunk. "We will discuss this more at dinner when your father regains full consciousness. I know this is very sudden, but I truly believe studying at Ba Sing Se is beneficial."
Satchiko did not know how to respond to her mother's suggestion. For her whole life, her identity as an Earthbender is never truly realized. Despite possessing the ability to levitate earth, only small pebbles have ever been moved by her will. Tales about Avatar Kyoshi using Earthbending alone to create this island never fails to fascinate. Her mother would always tell bedtime stories about awesome feats performed by the master of all four bending. Although she is still infatuated with those legends, Satchiko never pictured herself performing such elemental feats.
"Your potential is more than what I can teach you," Akahana said. "You already mastered the metal fans, the art of our people passed down from Kyoshi. But I can never help you master the art of Earthbending."
Sensing uncertainty from her youngest daughter, she adapted a gentler tone.
"I can understand you may not be receptive to the idea of travelling to distant lands. But being born with a natural ability and not fully reaching your full potential feels wasted." Akahana reasoned carefully.
This time, Satchiko presented her own questions. Why not just find an Earthbending teacher nearby? Surely, they can just sail towards the nearby town on the mainland and search for a random instructor.
"I would rather send you to somewhere safe," Akahana emphasized. "It is my failure for neglecting your gift for so long, and Ba Sing Se is more ideal than nearby regions."
Satchiko cannot argue with this rationale. She heard about the danger on the continent. Countless states waging wars against each other is certainly not ideal.
"Furthermore, I certainly do not entertain the idea of sending you to learn at Chin Village," the matron explained. "While both sides have maintained some sense of cordiality, I do not believe it is appropriate to send one of our own over for reasons outside diplomacy."
Of course, there are also other more valid reasons that are more problematic. Although the folks in Chin Village have somewhat toned down their hatred towards the Avatar following Aang's actions, that detestation has been reinvigorated in recent history. The custom burning of giant paper effigies seems to have experienced a resurgence in the last twenty years.
But a far more pragmatic reason that troubled Akahana is the threat of war. Since Chin Village is willing to accept captured pirates as laborers, the construction of additional walls meant their people are also facing a potential conflict with a nearby belligerent. No sane parent would send their child to a possible war zone just to learn Earthbending.
"Of all the places on the Earth Kingdom, Ba Sing Se is the only destination where me and your father can be at ease." Akahana presented her reasons. "The armies fighting on the mainland cannot reach you at sea, and the wall of the city gives me further reassurance."
"Walls? But I thought many cities on the mainland have it." Satchiko did not understand the last part. What makes Ba Sing Se's walls so special anyway?
Despite all these persuasions, Satchiko is still adamant. Unlike her older sister, she has no desire to travel beyond the island or see more of this world. Being a Kyoshi Warrior and guarding her home is already something that this teen is content with.
"So how is she going to journey there?" Mayumi said with a hint of excitement in her eyes. Despite appearing reserved, this reaction did not go unnoticed by the actual invitee, who knew her sister sees this as a potential opportunity to expand the horizon. If she refuses, would that cast a shadow on their relationship?
"I will think about it mum," Satchiko said with very little enthusiasm.
There is no way this lackluster response can deceive Akahana. The matron stressed that Satchiko will always have the final say on the decision to study at Ba Sing Se. A month will be available to decide. Until then, the messenger hawk will remain here until another letter can be send back for confirmation.
This is indeed a great dilemma. Satchiko glanced at Mayumi, whose eyes are glued to the letter. The older sister is clearly much more excited at the prospect of going to Ba Sing Se.
This decision wouldn't affect just herself.
…
All cultures have its own beauties.
All of them deserve to be redeemed.
To humble themselves and offer their services is a great virtue.
Yet they indulge in false idols and unfounded beliefs.
One day, they will all understand the pleasure to serve the truth.
A young woman with dark hair prostrated herself in the dimly lit room, pressing forehead hard against the stone-cold floor. Three others behind her also did the same, demonstrating the upmost respect to a man sitting on a golden throne. Unclean wretches like them are undeserving of this gift that they can never hope to repay. To even kneel in his almighty presence is a blessing too great for unworthy creatures like them.
For there is no one greater than him. A being of goodness and unrelenting love. The supreme shepherd that shall bring light to this forsaken world. He embodies all things perfect and shall also be the one to bring an eternal balance to a world in utter chaos.
One day, the world will know his greatness. One day, they will humble themselves and be freed by his truth. A great light shall break all chains, so that everyone in this world can be embraced by him.
"Master," the young woman addressed, struggling to contain her own swelling emotions.
The man sitting on the throne is concealed with a thin silk veil that separates the hall into two halves. Only his silhouette is visible to the four prostrating servants.
"You may speak," he approved the permission for them to further use their mouths.
Carefully, the young woman with dark hair and red rags spoke.
"No words can describe our gratitude for granting us an audience!" The young woman said with zeal. "To think you would overlook our inherent shortcomings and use us as part of your grand plan is simply too generous!"
If she was given an eternity to sing his praise, then she would. But the time of their master is valuable, which is why they must proceed with the agenda of this meeting.
"Great news has been sent by a fellow faithful servant in Ba Sing Se," the girl stated. "Our spy has informed us that one of Akahana's daughters are travelling outside their island. It would be a prime opportunity to capture them while they are separated from the others. Forgive my insolence, but I suggest we strike while she is trapped on a boat."
There is great eagerness in her voice. When a person prepared themselves for their most defining moment in their life, it is hard to contain that passion.
But the master corrected her folly. The silhouette did not move, but that solemn voice behind the silk veil reminds them of their place.
"Do not let your youth get the better of you."
The woman gasped, realizing her audacity. She pressed her forehead even harder against the ground, uncaring to the fact that it is bruising slightly.
"I applaud your meagre attempt to formulate a decent plan, but I do not see how your endeavor may benefit me."
The young woman is afraid that she might have displeased the master in some way. The worst part is that she doesn't understand why.
"Forgive your servant, for she is flawed and unkempt in your presence!" She quickly apologized, hoping it might have a slim chance to demonstrate her faithful piety. "I know someone like me is unworthy to even stand in your almighty presence, but a great transgression against one of your chosen champions is a tremendous unjust that cannot be overlooked!"
The master remained silent.
The young woman is still trying to think about a million ways to obtain his forgiveness. Without much option, she chose to finish what she came here to say.
"One of your most faithful disciples, my mother, was chosen by you many years ago. Just like all the other faithful champions, she was sent across the world to propagate your light, and to share the gift of the Eternal Balance to all the ignorant and unworthy."
It is absolutely imperative for the master's name to be known to all the unenlightened people. Only by shouting his greatness to distant lands and proselytize to the unreached can the whole world be ushered into the light known as the Eternal Balance.
The young woman tried again.
"This is an ample opportunity. If we can capture one of Akahana's spawns outside of their evil stronghold, then it would greatly advance the Eternal Balance!"
Once again, she was greeted with silence.
"Dear master, this may be the only chance for us to fulfil the wish of my late mother. If we can capture one Akahana's spawns, then we can open up a path for the Kyoshi Warriors to accept the teachings of the Eternal Balance. I promise to succeed where my mother has failed. Although those warriors have previously rejected you and the glory of the Eternal Balance, I vow to atone this great shame!"
The silhouette suddenly moved slightly. Perhaps an indication that the master is forgiving her? The young woman continues.
"Please grant us the privilege to embark on this daring journey to proclaim your name," she pleaded. "While we are unworthy, we are more than willing to sacrifice ourselves to better serve you. This opportunity may be ample for us to truly bring the Kyoshi Warriors to abandon their false beliefs and accept your warm embrace. Only then can they be saved."
"I will allow it," the master approved in a deep-toned voice. "Everyone in this world should be allowed to redeem themselves. Through me, all of them will come and accept the truth and joy of the Eternal Balance. I will also allow you to take a small group of individuals to assist in this righteous goal. Do not hesitate to come to me for consul. I will guide you just like how I guided your mother."
The young woman cried. Raw with emotions, she is overwhelmed by this overflowing mercy towards those who rejected his teachings in the past.
"You are too generous, master! I am sure just like many untouched people, the Kyoshi Warriors will also be overjoyed by the teachings of the Eternal Balance! If only the likes of them can even understand a fracture of your overwhelming mercy!"
"Good, good, your conviction and loyalty will only bring you to greater endeavors." The man stated in a slightly pleased tone. Perhaps he is smiling warmly at the piety of his faithful servants. "Now go children, bring my light to them and guide them to me. I await your good news."
The four of them are dismissed, off to fulfil a great mission to bring more people into the light. Nothing warms their heart more than seeing distant people abandoning their unfounded beliefs and humble themselves before the master. Those that accepted him have already experienced a great revival in their spirit. Soon, all the Kyoshi Warriors will also experience the same joy of being enveloped in their master's loving embrace.
It is all inevitable. Just like all things their master has ordained, bringing the Kyoshi Warriors under the master's rightful yoke is just one step in his grand plan for this world.
The prophecy cannot be challenged. The whole world is filled with the corrupt and sinful that needs to be brought into the master's divine light. So far, everything they expected to happen in the world has already manifested into reality, which is why they must work harder to bring the teachings of the master to even more distant lands.
Four young people prepared their hearts for the difficult challenge that they are about to face. Walking side by side across the corridor, they remind themselves what they have learnt since childhood and what they are preparing their whole lives for.
The Avatar died just as the master has predicted. The teachings of the Eternal Balance also taught them that wars will be more frequent. Yet, they are not alarmed by the countless conflict waging across the mainland continent. The fulfillment of famines and other natural disasters also cannot sway them from the righteous path of guiding more people to their master's flock. As faithful and righteous servants who enjoys being a sheep to a supreme shepherd, it is wrong to conceal his overflowing greatness to the rest of the world. More people should hear his teachings even if they are persecuted and hated by all four nations, but that is the price of siding with the ultimate truth. The whole world is wicked and does not understand true love. As proud warriors of the master, they shall defend his name against evil. They swore to stand firm, side by side. And in the end, they will also be saved by the Eternal Balance.
Soon, the master shall displace the Avatar and ascend to his rightful place!
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