Avatar-The Mandate of Heaven

How dare you share the same sky as I.

It's hard to escape without legs, and the cold night air seemed to carry the echoes of unspeakable horrors. But at least the pain keeps him more awake, well, that and also the unsettling symphony of flesh tearing not far behind. Despite the agony, attempting to crawl back to the watchtower marking Jian Xin's territory is a daunting task.

Now reduced to a mere shell of his former self, he lay sprawled across the blood-stained ground. The once vibrant lamellar armor that adorned him is now a grim canvas, telling a tale of brutality and unrelenting violence. The fallen soldiers around him, comrades in arms, formed a macabre tableau of death. Their lifeless bodies, bearing the wounds inflicted by a peculiar caliber weapon, spoke of a battle that had unfolded in the shadows of the night. The air hung heavy with the metallic scent of blood, a haunting reminder of the savagery that had transpired.

The night offered cover. Yet, remaining stationary is also courting death. As he presumed the flesh-craving creature had ventured elsewhere, he crawled further, trembling hands hesitantly navigating through the bodies of his fallen companions, all finest scouts drawn from Jian Xin's veterans. Despite the overwhelming pain and the darkness threatening to engulf him, the man summoned the last vestiges of his strength to crawl. His lower body, mangled and broken, scraped against the coarse surface, leaving a crimson trail on the unforgiving ground.

He heard a loud scream nearby, followed by the noise of the beast chewing flesh. The cover of the night provided some solace, but its malevolent presence lingered, a spectral force of destruction that seemed to defy the very essence of life.

His lower body painfully rubs itself against the coarse and rough surface, paving a trail of red. As the sensation of blood leaving his body becomes strong, a distant beacon of hope, flickered on the horizon. The watchtower is not too far away. He can even see the silhouettes of Jian Xin soldiers manning the outpost.

As he crawled, the man became acutely aware of the impending doom closing in. The creature, driven by an insatiable hunger, approached silently, its intent palpable in the chilling air.

It arrived closer unannounced, yet its unmistakable killing intent is hard to mask.

The man on the ground clenched onto the soil, wishing he can sink into the earth and hide. He dared not move, and he couldn't. With half his body already devoured, escape is now impossible. Even without turning around, he can feel the cold stainless steel pointed at him.

A moment of silence ensued. The large blade impaled his spine, puncturing flesh and bone. The suffering was not swift, as the creature dispensed endless hatred, each stab purposely prolonging the inevitable. A vengeful maw devoured the flesh until he is nothing but an unrecognizable mesh of crimson.

Even then, the creature's hunger remained unquenched.

...

"What a beautiful jasmine flower!" Mayumi exclaimed with delight.

It was merely a painting of a scarlet blossom, yet it seemed to possess a life of its own. The traveling merchant showcasing his collection of intricate wares proudly flaunted this artwork, boldly claiming it as the most expensive item he had ever acquired, the latest creation of the White Scholar himself. Regardless, it was a treat to take a moment and appreciate art on this arduous journey.

Some merchants had set up temporary stalls near their camp, attracting local farmers and herdsmen to marvel at the delicate and luxurious commodities only found behind the colossal walls of Ba Sing Se. Behind the bastion lay the pinnacle of Earth Kingdom high culture, filled with silken clothing and beautiful porcelain. It is a place where the gentry engaged in poetry and other subtle eloquences. Even reselling a small part of that lifestyle throughout the rest of the continent could be quite profitable, extending to highly acclaimed artworks produced by the most talented scholars. Some wealthier local farmers managed to purchase smaller commodities, such as a porcelain tea set. But for nomads bartering with animal pelts, such expensive wares proved less effective.

"I see that the White Scholar must be quite skillful with those hands," Mayumi remarked as she carefully examined the calligraphy, critiquing the writing style. "Every single stroke with the brush is rather detailed." Just as Satchiko had a voracious appetite for Elephant Koi meat, Mayumi too had a penchant for items related to 'cultured' hobbies. Naturally, such artwork is only affordable to the wealthy and affluent, but it didn't stop her from appreciating the artistic talent imprinted on mere parchment.

"You've got a refined perspective, young lady!" the merchant congratulated with an accent she struggled to understand. "I guarantee it will be the envy of everyone in your family! Interested in buying it?" he asked hopefully.

That enthusiasm dissipated when Mayumi returned to her original task. While this merchant primarily transported refined commodities enjoyed by Ba Sing Se's upper classes, most traveling traders would at least carry food ingredients. In exchange for some bison wool, Mayumi managed to buy some flour to thicken tonight's soup. For most impoverished locals, however, the exchange seemed costly.

Mayumi climbed a small hill overlooking the vast expanse, filled with sand dunes and nothing else. It's a barren and unusable land. According to the nomads, they are in a region fiercely contested between two warring states, a dangerous gray zone where armies frequently clashed. It is also a rather lawless land where some merchants could avoid paying hefty tolls if they are willing to take the risk. Naturally, the ones suffering the most are the locals, whose depleting crops are constantly plundered by bandits and soldiers alike. On their way here, she did her best to shield her sister's eyes from the sights of starving people or just fresh corpses. It's hard to distinguish one from another.

They are still one day away from seeing the walls of Ba Sing Se.

As Mayumi visited a vegetable stall manned by the merchant's juvenile son, she sensed that others had also paid a visit to this tiny makeshift market.

"How much flour can we get in exchange for this child?"

Mayumi turned her head around, staring at a mother and father presenting a sickly infant, luckily not to her. Like all impoverished people in this contested region, they wore nothing but rags, walking shoeless to the well-off merchant fresh from the grand city itself. Food is more valuable than gold, and lives mattered less than a mere speck of grass. She watched silently, somewhat confronted by how mundane this transaction felt.

"We would like to buy two bags of flour with this child! Please!" The father pleaded in a desperate voice. Both parents, hungered by famine, did not consider the gravity of their moral transgression. Such people who failed to fulfill their parental obligations are the scorns of Earth Sages, who deemed anyone threatening the integrity of the family unit as lacking in virtues.

The merchant viewed the sickly infant with suspicion. It is not a fair trade. Why engage in the primitive purchasing of a living person when porcelain vases worth far more? Masking his discomfort, he tried to reply with an excuse, albeit callously. "It seems to be on the verge of death. If you two bothered to feed it, I might have considered it. Go now, you have nothing else to offer me."

The mother pleaded with him, imploring that even just one bag of flour would be a generous act in such chaotic times. Without food or a drop of water, they would die anyway. As expected, the merchant denied their request to barter, even though his young son showed signs of sympathy towards the frail infant.

Mayumi involuntarily grasped the bag of flour carried in her arms. For her whole life, she told herself and the younger Kyoshi Warriors that the value of family cannot be measured in gold. It's worth far more than simple objects, outweighing everything else in this unforgiving world. It does not require an eloquent scholar to explain why family members are so important and why it is so wrong to betray them. Even simple-minded people would value their relatives. It is the truth that still remains paramount to her, even now.

She stared downward at the sack of flour and contemplated, squeezing the bag tightly. Giving this life-saving commodity to someone else would incur no major consequence. Compared to fetching ingredients for Saran's soup, the starvation of a family certainly takes greater precedence, even if they are mere strangers. Besides, the item she traded for this sack of flour wasn't even hers anyway. The worst that might happen would be to explain why she made this choice.

"Here," Mayumi handed the sack to them. The act was swift and subtle, an attempt to avoid any conversation. She quickly turned her back, avoiding eye contact and trying to face away despite the numerous words of gratitude.

A sense of relief washed over her. However, her journey back to the nomad camp hit a sudden roadblock when she overheard the parents persistently bargaining with the merchant. Words were spoken that she never imagined would come from a mother's mouth.

"Just buy it! Even just one extra piece of bread would be enough!"

Mayumi froze, taken aback by the lack of remorse. She couldn't fathom any circumstance dire enough for a mother to betray her own flesh and blood, especially for a single ounce of bread. Her mind debated, perhaps the parents are merely trying to secure a better life for their newborn under the care of a traveling merchant.

The merchant grew increasingly irritated. He instructed his young son to expel them from the stalls, a task which the juvenile carried out reluctantly.

"Alright, son, today you learn how to deal with troublesome customers!" the merchant exclaimed. "Show them what happens to those who mistake a legitimate businessman for a trafficker!"

Initially, the apprentice merchant requested the parents to leave. However, the two surprised everyone by suddenly throwing their sickly infant high into the air. Mayumi gasped, almost reacting to this audacious act. Fortunately, the merchant's son intervened swiftly, managing to catch the infant before it could hit a hard rock lying nearby. Though the boy suffered some lacerations, the newborn was mostly unharmed.

"What were you thinking?" the merchant screamed at his son, both in confusion and concern. He jumped out from his stall to examine the injury. Before he could turn to the two parents, they had already escaped. Their speed, unburdened by a third mouth to feed, is surprisingly agile for those suffering from malnourishment. A few more bags of flour and rice were stolen, forcing the merchant to sigh. "Whatever, at least my porcelains and paintings are safe. Glad those two didn't lay eyes on the silk too." The common people believe food is heaven. Luxurious commodities cherished by the gentry held value, but they couldn't provide sustenance or fulfill a person's dynastic ambitions.

As the merchant tended to his son's wound, the apprentice suggested adopting the infant, training it as another student of trade. Reluctant to bear this burden, the trader had no choice but to accept, given the many eyes on the unfolding scene.

Mayumi collected her thoughts. The silhouettes of the two parents soon vanished over some sand dunes, not even sparing a glance at the child they had abandoned. Her expression remained blank as she stared across the coarse horizon, pondering the significance of what she had just witnessed. In a simple thought, she assumed that generously providing rations might have prevented the parents from resorting to abandoning their child.

"Did you get the flours?"

Mayumi turned around, spotting Sarangerel approaching the stalls with a leather basket. The Kyoshi Warrior swiftly resolved the situation by retrieving copper coins from her pouch and purchasing another sack of flour. It seemed impolite to request another bundle of bison fur after the initial one had been wasted.

"Are you alright?" Sarangerel inquired.

"I'm fine," Mayumi replied with a sigh. "Is my sister on her way here?"

Sarangerel shook her head, unaware of Mayumi's intention to shield Satchiko from this somber scene.

Mayumi breathed a sigh of relief. Since leaving the city of Hao Jing, Satchiko hadn't been the same. Famine, wars, and poverty, all issues Kyoshi Island had been fortunate enough to avoid. For a young, naive girl venturing beyond their tranquil island for the first time, witnessing numerous horrors on this war-torn continent was overwhelming.

However, like many Kyoshi Warriors, even in the bleakest times, a sense of duty to protect what they love prevailed. Her mother's journey to becoming the village's prominent figure was challenging, filled with sorrow and regrets. Yet, observing the most disheartening breakdown of familial bonds could erode whatever hope Satchiko still clung to. Even the mightiest warriors needed precious things to protect, which serves as motivations that the most formidable weapons and armor couldn't offer. As the elder sister, the thought of her sibling succumbing to a cynical mindset is unsettling.

"Let's just leave," Mayumi suggested.

After purchasing some garlic and glancing at the merchant's son holding the infant, Sarangerel left. The two strolled until they reached a small river, not far from the Kheshig tribe's camp. Patches of grass allowed the Sky Bisons to graze and drink, watched by a few herdsmen. Despite the looming threat of battles nearby, the mood remained relaxed. Most travelers in these parts tended to avoid entanglement in the nearby conflict.

Mayumi spotted their respective siblings stationed near the river. Batu lounged beneath a tree, taking a break and resting in the shade as he watched over a small herd of grazing Sky Bison. As for her sister, Satchiko knelt on the riverbank, using the water to cleanse her face of the face paint. Despite adorning elaborate makeup to intimidate their enemies, removing this iconic part of their appearance proved inconvenient. The water-resistant properties forced Satchiko to rub her face rigorously, dirtying the towel. Typically, it fell upon the older sister to perform the menial task of applying their face paint.

"Here, I'll bring the supplies back to camp," Sarangerel kindly offered. "You can spend some time with her." The subtle changes in Satchiko's demeanor didn't escape notice. Perhaps Sarangerel believed that more counseling from Mayumi would help, even if only a little.

After thanking the nomad, Mayumi approached her sister. Satchiko turned around, revealing a smudged makeup with a chaotic array of red and white swirling around the face. This isn't the first time it had happened.

The older sister sighed, refraining from reprimanding this clumsiness. For an aspiring Kyoshi Warrior seeking strength and heroism, the inability to clean and repaint her face seemed comical. As daughters of a powerful Kyoshi Warrior and descendants of a wartime hero, they had many expectations to fulfill. But Satchiko had already tasted the horrors that unraveled the romantic notion of bravery. There wasn't much else that is needed to be said.

"Here, let me do it for you." Mayumi cleaned Satchiko's face, repainting the iconic makeup of their people. She allowed her sister to practice on her own face, even offering suggestions on using the river's reflection as a mirror. Although a proud warrior mastering the metal fans, Satchiko unfortunately possessed artistic skills that are hardly worth mentioning. She botched up the process, accidentally painting the red pigment over Mayumi's nose.

Batu stifled a chuckle, covering his mouth to prevent his friend from losing more confidence. Regardless, Satchiko was still saddened by her failure to paint properly, prompting Mayumi to offer some comforting words.

"It's fine, sister, you did your best," Mayumi reassured her, adjusting her face paint by using the river's clear surface as a mirror. The distinctive features of a Kyoshi Warrior's face served as a mask to intimidate foes and symbolize their devotion to Avatar Kyoshi, a prominent figure associated with strength. However, Satchiko's demoralized expression did not honor that proud legacy. Once again, Mayumi tried her best to guide her sister through this serious doubt in oneself.

Satchiko didn't say much, but her dazed expression as she gazed far into the horizon offered little solace. At this point, Mayumi could only imagine the turmoil and the struggle to process the harsh world they inhabited. On this journey, her sister was forced to experience some of the worst suffering that is plaguing these lands, tearing down the safer mirage provided by their island's isolation. Mayumi lamented. At least she herself could slowly unravel the cruel reality through books and writing hidden in their father's literary collection. Perhaps it was always inevitable that the naive and innocent mind of a child would be eroded.

"I am not a warrior," Satchiko suddenly said. "I do not deserve the golden headdress bestowed by mom."

The false notion of her invincibility and audacity as a powerful warrior was utterly shattered. What happened in Hao Jing said it all. She failed to save a life and couldn't do anything to help the people. But at least favorable circumstances spared the surviving citizens from impending doom, a solace to which she contributed little.

"Isn't it funny that I tried to appear brave?" Satchiko asked Mayumi earnestly. "I think even you can tell that I was a coward who also wants to escape the city but is too afraid to say so."

All adults on the scene cared little about shame or honor. Even Mayumi, who was taught to defend the weak like every other Kyoshi Warrior back home, openly chose to escape in the face of overwhelming odds. Yet Satchiko still clung to the naive and romanticized notion of being the hero.

"In the end, it was the regicidal noble who saved the day," Satchiko whimpered. Her opinions on the man who saved Hao Jing were complicated, with only immediate rumors informing her of what happened to the previous governor. Having limited knowledge of that nobleman whose soldiers burned down the city's palace, she was at least grateful that his timely arrival saved the remaining citizens. It is only here in the wilderness that they could voice their thoughts aloud.

But this begged a question. If the righteous and virtuous were supposed to help those in need, why did it require those with questionable morals to turn such ambitions into reality?

"I wasn't even useful enough to retrieve my metal fan," Satchiko said sadly.

"You're delving too deeply into this, making it more complex than it needs to be," Mayumi remarked. "While I may consider your actions reckless, the fact that you tried to make a difference is commendable. Your sense of duty to save strangers, surpasses those who shamelessly abandon their posts, and that is noteworthy."

Even though Mayumi aimed to dissuade Satchiko from her noble but impulsive mission, the younger sister empathized with the inclination to escape the carnage, which is a more rational choice than attempting to save a city on the brink of collapse. Nevertheless, Satchiko wished she could have accomplished more in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Observing a fish swimming through the river, Mayumi diverted the conversation to a lighter topic, remarking on the peculiar facial features of the fish that resembled a human. Rather than dwelling on her sister's diminishing confidence, this shift in focus might alleviate the current somber mood.

"How about we discuss something more... lighthearted?" Mayumi suggested, adopting a more relaxed tone.

Satchiko reluctantly agreed, although her interest in the usefulness of such discussions appeared limited.

"Do you remember Aunt Meng?" Mayumi asked, her feigned enthusiasm failing to impress Satchiko. "The fortuneteller once predicted who I might marry in the future!"

Her sister continued to gaze aimlessly toward the dry and arid horizon. Despite losing interest in gossip about such a trivial topic, Satchiko allowed Mayumi to continue, recognizing that a small distraction might not hurt a young and dispirited warrior.

"Okay, so it's someone who's probably successful," Mayumi embellished lightly, realizing she didn't fully remember the already cryptic details. That old fortunetelling hag just had to be vague. But in fairness, seeking a prediction about this specific aspect of her future was never Mayumi's intention. "And... an Earthbender, yes, I think Meng also mentioned that. Lastly, I believe she said that my future beloved would present me with a purple flower."

Naturally, it would be a death wish to bring up the 'two children' part from Aunt Meng's prediction. The embarrassment it would cause would be too much to bear. Mayumi covered her eyes to hide the disappointment in herself. In the attempt to ease Satchiko's sorrow, she had likely sacrificed a good portion of her reputation.

"Yeah, about that, Aunt Meng said a lot of things," Batu interjected from a distance. "She told my sister that her future husband would offer her a whole bucket of rotting cheese. Maybe we should have some more realistic expectations."

"Not now, Batu," Mayumi replied. Judging by her sister's slightly tightening face, she noticed how the little boy's words indirectly created more self-doubt in Satchiko.

Mayumi sighed, realizing she still had much to learn in the ways of being the older sibling. Compared to their parents, perhaps wisdom and sagacity are still things she needed a long time to acquire. Usually, senior leaders and village elders provide guidance to the youngest generation. Successfully encouraging a person and raising their morale is an art, which some of the greatest military commanders aim to perfect alongside battlefield tactics. As for Mayumi, she may qualify as a leader who can give out strict orders. However, understanding the minds of those disheartened by dire circumstances is something she still needs practice in.

The sound of the wind added to Satchiko's indifference on the matter. She simply expressed her skepticism about fortunetelling as a whole, likely considering it a foolish notion that provides solace to the ignorant.

"Fortunetelling isn't real," Satchiko said with little light left in her eyes. "If I say the next second there would be an earthquake, would it happen?" As the teenager reached her hands out to the river for a small drink, a sudden phenomenon forced her to stop. It was gentle, almost undetectable. But the ground appeared to have moved slightly.

"Did you feel that?" Mayumi asked quietly.

Both of them instinctively turned to Batu, who quickly scrambled from the ground. Along with two much older herdsmen in the area, they tried to pacify the Sky Bisons, who were all roaring and stomping the ground without reason. It is still a mystery, but animals can certainly detect threats earlier than humans.

"Calm down, you!" Batu shouted, tugging at the reins of a nervous baby Sky Bison. The young calf, perturbed by an unseen disturbance, needed reassurance that the herdsmen couldn't comprehend.

After finally settling the anxious Sky Bison with some extra hay, Batu proposed that an unnatural cause might have agitated their cherished animals. Recognizing the perilous nature of the lands they occupied, the young boy suggested investigating the source and reporting back to the Khan.

"Batu, I advise against this," Mayumi cautioned. "We're in a volatile region, there's no telling what dangers lurk out there."

The young boy considered Mayumi's warning. Yet, a glance at the older herdsmen hinted at his true intention. These nomads, long past their days as fierce steppe warriors, are better suited to guard the herd. Furthermore, splintering their already limited numbers would be imprudent.

"One quick trip to scout the source of that sound, and that's it," Batu reassured. "I promise none of us will get into trouble. The moment we sense danger, we'll run."

Satchiko reluctantly nodded. It seemed both of them aimed to convey their willingness to behave more responsibly. Warriors they may be, but tempering their brazen tendencies would be a constructive development.

"Batbayar and Altan are a bit too old for this," Batu gestured at the two herdsmen. "But at least we have someone competent who can get us out of trouble." He subtly alluded to Mayumi, who considered the necessity of ensuring no threats are headed straight for the camp.

"I'll go, the two of you stay here," Mayumi declared.

"But we always do things together," Satchiko protested. "The last time I ventured out alone, it didn't end well."

Batu reassured them that he would shoulder responsibility for any mishaps, relieving Mayumi of a burden. While the warring armies between the two local states didn't automatically attack random travelers, guarantees are scarce in such chaotic times. However, a small and nimble scouting party traveling a short distance shouldn't incur too much risk. If there are immediate threats near their camp, locating them now would prove beneficial.

Leaving the two older men to guard the small herd of Sky Bisons, the trio vanished behind the seemingly endless sand dunes that stretched out in every direction.

"Young people these days," Altan scoffed. "Not my fault if they get themselves killed out there!"

Nevertheless, the warriors of their tribe are not plentiful. The defense of their main camp took precedence.

"Hey," Batbayar whispered, nudging Altan's shoulder. "Did that younger girl drink from the river?"

"No, why do you ask that?"

A lone corpse of an armored soldier slowly drifted pass from where they were standing. Judging by the design of the light green uniform, it seemed to be from Jian Xin, one of the local states fighting in the region.

The two senior herdsmen couldn't even muster the strength to talk. If this were just one dead soldier floating in the water, experienced old men like them wouldn't be intimidated. But the river is gradually filled with more objects floating from upstream. All people.

The two senior herdsmen clutched their wooden crooks with trembling hands. Wars between various Earth Kingdom states are bloody and brutal. No matter how many times they had witnessed the horror that knows no limits, few could ever live normally afterward.

The Sky Bisons immediately stopped drinking from the river, all confused and frightened. The herdsmen soon remembered that they, along with all the Sky Bisons and most of the tribe, had used this river as a source to quench their thirst. They are even planning to use the water to make soup tonight.

"This isn't going to be good for our stomach, is it?" Batbayar asked.

Altan shook his head in a dejected manner. Unfortunately, the Sky Bisons had also drunk from the river.

...

Satchiko gently brushed her palm over a stone cowrie shell embedded in the ground. Ancient, likely thousands of years old, it bore the weight of time with its entire body almost taken over by moss and other vegetation. Surrounding her are other colossal coins made from earth. Despite her lack of knowledge about coinage, she could deduce the evolution of Earth Kingdom coin designs throughout the ages, influencing these massive earthen projectiles used by skilled Earthbenders. Some are old, some more recent. But amidst the changing designs of these massive coins, some things remained constant.

"This land," Satchiko lamented. "I see that even to this day, it still does not know peace."

She had never been one to delve deeply into history or philosophy. While her passion for fighting was strong, the undeniable suffering of others is hard to ignore. As she observed the surprisingly green vegetation that covered these weapons of war, the Kyoshi Warrior felt a mix of relief from the soothing environment and a gripping realization of its implications. It is a horrifying prospect to contemplate why the soil is unexpectedly rich underneath these giant coins, especially considering they are still in a desert.

Satchiko suddenly noticed a peculiar object buried under a more recently created giant coin. The massive projectile had accumulated moss over the span of likely twenty years, and the grass had mostly melded with whatever is being squashed underneath.

"Cool! Spare armor!"

Batu hurried over with excitement. He is captivated by what seemed to be a conical helmet with a spike on top. He tried to pull it free, even requesting Satchiko for additional help.

Satchiko's feet froze, realizing what is truly before her. She screamed with terror. "Batu, stop! I think that is a-"

It is too late. The little boy forcefully extracted the helmet, stumbling backward. While he contently treasured his new possession, the Kyoshi Warrior grimaced in silence. With a chilling shiver, she almost fell to the ground. Mayumi managed to arrive and catch her.

"Sister, are you alright?"

Mayumi quickly shifted her focus to the object beneath the coin. It is a solitary, fleshless skull staring at them both. Satchiko's entire body trembled, too afraid even to look at it.

"It's fine, it won't hurt us," Mayumi reassured in a softer tone.

Recognizing the consequences of his impulsive action, Batu promptly apologized. It was evident that Satchiko needed more time to recover from the horrors they experienced in Hao Jing. However, even harmless and lifeless remnants could strike fear into a warrior who had been deeply dispirited.

Supporting Satchiko with every step, Mayumi and Batu helped her out of the miniature forest of giant earthen coins. While it might be somewhat embarrassing for a trained warrior like herself to be coddled, not everyone can easily overcome the haunting aftermath of old battlefields. If seasoned veterans struggle to reconcile with such grim realities, how could a mere teenager be expected to remain stoic and unbothered?

Their small scouting party had encountered no immediate dangers so far, but it had already taken a toll on the younger Kyoshi Warrior. Still, she mustered enough courage to stay close to her sister. Throughout their journey, Batu led the way, using his tracking skills to locate the source of the faint and distant quake.

"Over that sand hill," Batu said, adjusting the newly acquired helmet and propelling himself upward with a small blast of air.

Climbing with effort, Mayumi supported her younger sister, placing Satchiko's arm over her shoulder. Upon reaching the top of the hill, they beheld a structure of unimaginable length.

"Huh, I've seen this before," Batu remarked. "My dad told me that it supports giant carriages made of metal that are linked together. He also said that it's very fast and doesn't need food or water."

Even Mayumi was left bewildered by the sight before her. It is an incomprehensible structure that surpassed the limits of her understanding. A long, uniform track crafted entirely from metal, a resource scarce on their secluded island. What struck her even more was the evident use of high-quality steel, a material so valuable that even a small amount could outfit each of their fellow warriors with the finest armor a hundred times over. Sensing her older sister's disbelief, Satchiko was too shocked to articulate her thoughts. The only reason they maintained their sanity was Batu's rather nonchalant response to the astonishing abundance of metal.

"Is this... some ancient creation made by the Kamuy?" Mayumi pondered aloud, casting doubt on the scene before her. The two sisters couldn't discern the beginning and end of this elongated metal road. They even toyed with the notion that it was a structure forged through divine means, perhaps by a powerful deity or spirit revered by all the blacksmiths of the world. If so, their village's weaponsmith had said nothing of it. Could it even be the work of a venerated deity in the mainland folk religion?

"Relax," Batu advised the dazed Kyoshi Warriors. "Don't get too ahead of yourselves." Although the youngest, Batu had witnessed more of this continent, its worst horrors and the most remarkable feats of human craftsmanship. Without warning, he slid down the sandy hill and approached the lengthy metal structure. It appeared that the Kyoshi Warriors were too absorbed in their astonishing discoveries to notice a group of locals scavenging the structure's material. Perhaps this seemingly impossible metal construct is not as 'divine' as they initially believed.

"Cautiously," Mayumi emphasized. "We don't know if they are friendly or not."

They trailed Batu until they are close enough to the random band of scavengers. When the little boy waved in a friendly manner, some of them screamed in fear.

"Soldiers, we need to flee!"

The young nomad seemed confused by the reaction. Mayumi quickly reminded him of the helmet on his head. Realizing this, he promptly pulled it off, once again donning the brown fur hat of his people. One member of the scavengers noticed this and soon calmed his companions.

"It's just a little boy," the elder said with an aged voice. "You're afraid of him? Seriously?" He stepped forward, allowing Batu to first introduce himself and the two women standing behind him.

The elderly man, eyes obscured by thick eyebrows, simply nodded. He plainly wished to be addressed as Lao Tie.

Perhaps the frequent travels by merchants had made this interaction rather mundane. Noticing the baskets of scrap metals extracted from this massive track, it was possible that the old man was simply demonstrating decent courtesy for the sake of it. Maybe they would rather talk with those who are here to actually purchase the steel.

"Well, if your Khan is interested in buying some metal, we are here," Lao Tie offered with a dull voice.

All of them returned to tearing small parts of metal from this track. It is backbreaking work, likely paying little given their rather humble clothing. Out of curiosity, Mayumi tried to understand the purpose of this long metal track. The elder's explanation wasn't much different from the description given by Batu. It served like a route for a 'giant metal snake' that slithered over this endless structure. Fast and efficient, yet none of the locals seemed to have any idea how it actually worked. Upon hearing that the Kyoshi Warriors believed it to be a structure created by supernatural means, the old scavenger corrected this false assumption.

"Oh no, it's not some works by the spirits," Lao Tie said. "Trust me, when I was at least twenty years younger, I saw people building this thing. They don't use it anymore, but I heard the whole mainland used to be connected by this track. Some say back in those days, you could travel from Ba Sing Se all the way to the southern coasts in just days!"

Satchiko refused to believe it. Their journey from the island all the way here had been mired with danger. If it wasn't for the Sky Bisons, it was believed that traversing from one side of this continent to the other would take at least a few months. Such a feat didn't even account for the difficult terrain, the threat of wars and bandit uprisings.

"That's impossible!" she said with frustration.

Mayumi extended her apologies for her sister's outbursts, assuming the role of the more responsible one. She delved into the potential dangers nearby, specifically questioning the occasional quaking and tremors that reverberated through the ground. As Batu had intuited, the source was not of natural origin.

"Respectable elder, could you shed light on this place and why it feels so volatile?" Mayumi posed her question, hopeful that the locals could provide some insight.

Lao Tie sighed, his gaze fixed on the vast horizon of lush green grass, expressing a mix of admiration and lamentation for fertile soil arising in a barren land.

"Twenty years, such a long time since the two siblings started their quarrels," he sighed again, a tinge of sentimentality in his tone. "So much conflict, so many young men sent to this accursed place named Xue Di. So much suffering has nourished the earth, transforming it into fertility."

Lao Tie shared with the younger minds that this is a disputed region, rampant with bandits and lawlessness. But most crucially, many are sent here to meet their demise. The two young states, Xiao Zhong and Jian Xin, had waged war against each other for over two decades. Cities crumbled. Entire populations put to the sword. It was ironic that these two states were originally part of a single province, but that was before the royal decree from the capital city altered the landscape.

All it took was drawing a line on the map.

"I've forgotten why they were fighting exactly," Lao Tie admitted with a foggy memory. "Maybe it was for a pond of water, or perhaps it was over some gold mine. Nevertheless, the likes of us can at least avoid starvation by selling some rusty scraps left behind by those who built it." There was little hope in Lao Tie's voice, indicating a belief that nothing would change for the better. Lastly. He addressed Mayumi's inquiry. "The random quaking of the ground isn't anything special. It's just Earthbenders hurling large chunks of earth at each other. As for the tremors, they occur when there are many people gathered in one place. Speaking of which, there's a battle about to happen." He pointed to another sandy hill that appeared similar.

Out of courtesy, Lao Tie guided them to the top. Satchiko's eyes widened more than necessary, and a sudden chill ran down her spine. In the distance, a vast and barren field unfolded not too far away. Two massive armies stood in silence, tens of thousands on each side staring at each other. Never before had the Kyoshi Warriors witnessed so many souls gathered in a single location.

"Are we in danger?" Satchiko asked with a timid voice. "Should we leave?"

Luckily, they remained somewhat far away. Batu reassured them that this distance would not immediately endanger themselves or the Kheshig's camp. Since they are not part of this twenty-year conflict, there shouldn't be any reason for those soldiers to attack them, at least not instantly.

But there is one subject Satchiko is too afraid to ponder. With so many people on both sides, what would happen when they start killing each other?

"Don't get involved," Lao Tie suggested to the scouting trio. "Or you will end up like my idiot son, whose helmet you are wearing."

Batu was surprised. Lao Tie clarified that the helmet had specific scratch marks on the top side. The old man had long accepted that his son died a pointless death on the battlefield, just another tragic result of this prolonged conflict.

"Joined the army at fifteen, he said. There will be honor and glory, he said." Lao Tie muttered bitterly, likely disapproving of his child's participation in this war that had raged for so long. "Many young men said they want to be a great general favored by the heavens. I haven't seen one of those naive brats live long enough to return and find their homes overgrown and desolate, plucking grains from wild patches."

He then informed them that after the battle, vast amounts of weapons and armor could be salvaged. This can then be sold to any merchants who fancied the resale value of equipment still in pristine condition. While looting from the dead is highly frowned upon, lowly scavengers could not feed their starving stomachs with morals alone.

Having said this, Mayumi pulled out a wooden monocular she brought from Kyoshi Island, observing the prelude to a violent battle. There seemed to be a duel between the strongest warriors from both sides, and Satchiko noticed the astonishment in her sister's expression.

"That thing, what is that?" Mayumi exclaimed, her shock evident. "Some sort of giant armor?"

Satchiko requested to borrow the scope. Upon looking through the magnified lens, she instantly regretted the decision.

A large metal monster used its massive claws to knock a rider off his ostrich horse steed. Before the unfortunate man could even react, he was gruesomely plowed into pulp. Satchiko quickly averted her eyes, but even from their distance, they could vaguely see the giant metal creature crushing the poor fellow, leaving a large scarlet stain on the ground. It was a traumatizing experience, even a brief glimpse of the brutality unfolding across the battlefield is hard to stomach.

Mayumi gently held her sister's hand, soothingly telling Satchiko that the affairs of others shouldn't be a burden on her. "It's out of your control, sister. Do not be too bothered by it." Though even Batu could sense a faint tint of hesitancy in her words. "Remember, the wars between these warlord states are not our priorities. Solving them would not improve Kyoshi Island's own set of challenges. My duty is to keep you safe. You cannot help others if it endangers you or the ones you love. So please, sister, stop risking your life by getting into trouble needlessly."

"You are right," Satchiko said weakly. "But if I do somehow have power, I would have done something about it."

Somehow, the last part of that answer did not satisfy Mayumi.

Moments later, they witnessed massive earthen coins and hails of arrows being employed by both sides, aiming to decimate their enemies. The sound of earth impacting and men crying in agony mixed together, loud enough to be heard across vast distances. Even thinking about the sensation of being pulverized by those massive projectiles frightened Satchiko.

The two armies soon converged. Soldiers charged relentlessly with their spears, clashing and killing anyone not wearing their own shade of green. The loose formations of conscripts engaged in chaotic melee combat, with their commanders trying their best to maintain order. The sound of archers unleashing their arrows never ceased, followed by swarms of elite cavalry aiming to attack any vulnerable flanks, impaling men with their elongated polearms. Everywhere they looked, volatile signs of Earthbenders demonstrating their skills are prevalent, killing anything that stood against speeding boulders. Men are maimed by hard shrapnel or buried underneath large masses of the ground that suddenly enveloped whole squadrons of people.

It is an utter meatgrinder.

Amidst the explosive chaos, the air reverberated with the anguished screams of men. The giant 'metal armor,' as Mayumi had described it, stood defiantly in the heart of the turmoil, seemingly impervious to the onslaught of blades and the blunt force of the earth. Its vicious claws sliced through the ranks of infantry, reducing them to helpless combatants futilely wielding spears and swords against its impenetrable shell.

The onlookers remained silent, grateful for their lack of direct involvement. Yet, even from their safe vantage point, the vivid imagery of severed bodies haunted their minds. The monstrous construct, in a morbid display, even wielded a living ostrich horse as a weapon, swinging it mercilessly at its adversaries.

"How many of them are going to die?" Satchiko asked in a hushed tone, trying to suppress her fear.

Mayumi cast a troubled gaze upon her, acknowledging the unforgiving cruelty of these circumstances. The brutal reality dictated that a conflict of such unprecedented scale would claim the lives of thousands. Judging by Lao Tie's words, perhaps a different course of action, a subtle shift in the strings guiding the lives of commoners, could have averted this tragic outcome.

"We might want to move a bit to the side," Batu suggested.

A lone earth disc hurtled in their direction, fortunately landing at a safe distance, though enough to stir up a cloud of sand, forcing them to shield their eyes. The forceful impact shook Satchiko, her once audacious fighting spirit now significantly diminished since their departure from Hao Jing.

After coughing painfully, Lao Tie advised them to sit down and wait for the bloodbath to conclude. Despite the brutal scale of the fighting, he spoke of it with the indifference of routine.

"They won't take long," Lao Tie yawned, lying on the ground for a nap. "Wake me up when they are done."

Observing the diminishing combatants, Satchiko entertained the fleeting idea of intervening, of somehow preventing these once-united people from senselessly slaughtering each other, gradually thinning their numbers to the last men.

As she took a tentative step forward, Mayumi swiftly used her sheathed blade to block Satchiko's path. "Don't bother, they will kill you too if you go near them. It's not your place to do anything about their war."

Satchiko took a deep breath, the weight of that last word settling in. The concept itself felt both familiar and foreign as she witnessed the carnage filling the horizon. In that moment, the idealistic image of a warrior fighting pirates and defending villagers seemed a distant echo amid the harsh reality of the battlefield.

...

The battlefield now lay silent and lifeless. The once-thriving clash of arrows, swords, and spears had ceased, leaving behind a haunting scene of death. Lifeless bodies were scattered amidst giant earth discs embedded in the ground. The darker shade of green, identified as Xiao Zhong based on Lao Tie's experience, emerged victorious, though the triumph felt pyrrhic. A decisive cavalry charge from the back of Jian Xin's disorganized formation had pierced through multiple ranks, decimating the general's bodyguards and seizing the commander's chariot. The aftermath was a chaotic and scattered retreat, with the victorious cavalry and monstrous metal construct mercilessly dismembering any survivors.

"This way, children," Lao Tie led his group of scavengers through the desolate land to salvage leftover materials.

Many are busy stripping lamellar vests and pauldrons from the lifeless bodies. Conical helmets are removed, revealing the various emotions etched on the soldiers' faces right before their demise. There is anger, sadness, grief and fear. Yet, their lifeless expressions almost gave the illusion that they could spring back to life at any moment.

Opportunistic scavengers even had a small cart to collect unbroken weapons, intending to sell them back to the same armies that had wielded them. According to Lao Tie, ordinary spears held the least value, as they are basic weapons often assigned to inexperienced conscripts. Bows are deemed more valuable, requiring years of training to become competent bowmen with the strength to even draw the strings. However, the more profitable items are the two-handed polearms used by cavalrymen, often considered elite units of any armies.

Yet, the pinnacle of loot are officer swords, particularly the double-edged jian wielded by high-status commanders. Craftsmanship for such rare weapons is exceptional, sometimes featuring gold and jewelry in their forging.

Mayumi picked up a random single-edged dao from the ground. It is unremarkable and rusty, just an ordinary weapon wielded by another expendable soldier. However, she marveled at the sheer quantity of metal available to equip an army of thousands. As a Kyoshi Warrior, she understood the challenges of obtaining quality metal for her people on a small island. Natural ores near the village are impure, demanding painstaking efforts from their blacksmiths to render the material workable. Mayumi often chuckled at the naive rumors circulating among outsiders, claiming that her people possessed a secret technique for refining legendary steel capable of forging the sharpest blades. Such myths ignored the fact that all swords could achieve similar feats. Some Kyoshi Warriors even opted to import metal ores from the mainland, an expensive choice despite their ability to afford it.

"So, what do you think?" Lao Tie approached slowly, seeking Mayumi's opinion on the grim field of corpses.

"It is unfortunate, and many died needlessly," she lamented.

"Yes, but for you inexperienced travelers seeking to avoid passing through the checkpoints of both Jian Xin and Xiao Zhong, this is the best moment to traverse this area." Lao Tie emphasized, ensuring that both Mayumi and Batu grasped the importance of this information, which could assist the Khan in leading the entire tribe to Ba Sing Se. "All around you lie dead men, soldiers who could have been patrolling or guarding their borders with Ba Sing Se. While there may still be bandits lurking around, at least the ability to impede travelers is diminished. The few days after this battle might be the safest time to pass through."

"Don't worry, old man, we don't need to travel on foot!" Batu exclaimed. "We have Sky Bisons. We will just fly over this place. But it's good to know that there aren't any major threats that can harm our camp."

"Caution, young one," Lao Tie warned. "Out here, you cannot be certain of anything."

The older Kyoshi Warrior suddenly placed one hand on her sword's hilt. However, upon realizing that the newly arrived people are not soldiers, she remained cautiously calm. Surprisingly, another group of scavengers had arrived, ready to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the aftermath of the battle. Old man Lao Tie waved at them, and they reciprocated, indicating that the two groups often encountered each other after massive battles between the two states. This other group specialized in salvaging a different material, ensuring there are no conflict of interest between them and Lao Tie's group. The old man even found time to share some tea with their leader, engaging in conversation about recent events and mundane gossip, completely ignoring that they are sitting in a sea of dead soldiers.

Satchiko and Mayumi observed as the other group collected the bodies of soldiers and animal steeds wearing a darker shade of green. Dead men are piled onto carts drawn by ostrich horses, a gruesome sight that forced the younger sister to look away, questioning why she needed to accompany Mayumi and her newest friend.

"These folks are from Xiao Zhong," Lao Tie explained to the three youngsters. "Kind folks, but also sad folks. You three might pity me for collecting leftover scraps for a living. But for those who came to retrieve the bodies and send them back to the families of these soldiers, few can do it for five years without going insane."

"But at least it pays well!" a younger metal scavenger chimed. He was promptly smacked on the head by his mother, who reminded him that handling dead bodies is a task reserved for those with an even more inferior status.

This interaction reminded Mayumi of how leatherworkers are not respected in many parts of the world simply because they had to physically touch the dead carcasses of animals. Naturally, elder Lao Tie sincerely apologized for this insensitive remark, to which the leader of the body-retrieving group graciously stated that no offense was taken. They continued to share some tea, occasionally shouting at some younger men for not working faster. Lao Tie's friend even remarked that the depressing work of collecting bodies may drive people insane, but the pay is decent, more stable than working as a farming peasant. Just like salvaging weapons wielded by soldiers from varying status, the same bodies also correlated to the rule of profitability. Whenever Lao Tie found highly valuable weapons after a battle's end, he would notify his 'colleague' about the dead wielder, whose body could worth a fortune if the noble family are willing to compensate them for the arduous retrieval work. Likewise, the other party would also reply with equal courtesy. Although grotesque, it certainly created a strangely harmonious and mutually beneficial working relationship.

Mayumi eyed Satchiko, who appeared tormented as she stepped onto a field of dead men. The younger sister insisted on following Mayumi, pushing beyond the limits by enduring sights that mere teenagers should not even be looking at. But the girl is barely holding onto her sanity, trying her best to ignore the impaled dead bodies and severed limbs. Then there is Batu, leisurely collecting spare arrows that his people could use. The boy appeared to be contently looting anything useful, including using a waterskin to seep a pond of dark liquid leaking out of a rather sophisticated metal wagon.

"That's it, we are turning back, we should have been heading to camp long before we even came here," Mayumi ordered. Batu hastily agreed. Although he seemed mostly unaffected by the carnage, the little boy is considerate of the younger Kyoshi Warrior who is already experiencing a heavy mental toll.

Mayumi grabbed one of Satchiko's hands, bowing to elder Lao Tie before departing.

As they treaded through fields of fresh corpses, Satchiko narrowed her eyes down to the dirt path below their boots. Mayumi remained unfazed by the countless carcasses, mainly focused on her own sister's well-being.

"Help." A faint voice rang from amongst the ocean of fallen soldiers.

Batu turned his head in the general direction of the source. There is only the dead, and nothing is moving. Mayumi continued to walk, ignoring the weak pleading sound.

"Aren't you going to stop, big sis?" Satchiko raised her head, noticing that Mayumi is intentionally speeding up. "We can help whoever is still alive."

"No one is alive," Mayumi declared with a mundane voice. "Let's just leave." She then eyed Satchiko, observing her sister staring across the endless expanse of dead bodies without the initial torment. Despite still harboring terror at the sight of the dead, the prospect of rescuing a survivor strangely helped Satchiko regain some of her composure.

Satchiko looked directly into Mayumi's eyes, conveying her intentions without the need for words. The older sister is naturally unreceptive to taking further risks. However, since the battle was over, refusing this request might further deteriorate Satchiko's spirit and sow doubts in their relationship.

"I will let you search for the survivor to your heart's content," Mayumi said with a slightly stern voice. "But ultimately, I will decide if we should retreat or stay longer."

Satchiko nodded, promising Mayumi that she would demonstrate more restraint this time. No more rash decision-making or bold adventurism.

"Come on, Batu, let's go and see if there is someone in need of help." Satchiko enlisted the young boy in this potentially dangerous endeavor. Mayumi followed after them. Since they had to walk over many dead soldiers, the younger sister wasn't filled with the same sense of enthusiasm as merely a week ago. Satchiko became more cautious, fearful of her mortal life. Every step to avoid a dead body was taken with extra caution, as the unfamiliar sensation of even touching them would prove too difficult to handle.

Satchiko almost gasped when she accidentally laid eyes on a dead ostrich horse. She covered her eyes, trying to erase the horrific image of whatever was inside slowly spilling out from the stomach. Batu saw this scene and managed to pull her away from it. Since nomads are known for hunting wild animals for food, the juvenile is already accustomed to handling carcasses.

"It's ok," Batu reassured, patting Satchiko's back in a futile attempt to reduce her faltering courage. While he may crave roasted meat, he understands that certain folks are not open to the idea of witnessing anything too grotesque. Mayumi nodded at him once, demonstrating gratitude and acknowledging his keen awareness to adapt to her sister's unstable emotions.

As the trio ventured further, they found what seemed to be the source that emitted the frail call for aid. Situated in the middle of some already dead archers, plenty of large earth discs are embedded into the ground.

"Help!"

"Over there!" Batu pointed at a giant earth coin lying flat on the ground.

There seemed to be a small crater underneath the disc. After ordering the two youngsters to remain behind, Mayumi cautiously approached the massive projectile with her sword unsheathed. The idea of a human surviving the direct impact of such potent weapons is slim to none, which is why the Kyoshi Warrior suspects that this could potentially be a trap.

Looking downward into the small crater, Mayumi saw multiple bodies already pulverized. Some limbs even scattered across the floor. She gasped upon seeing someone who is barely alive underneath that weight.

Sandwiched between multiple armored bodies, a survivor reached his trembling hand to the heavens. He is stuck, too compressed to move the rest of his body that is enveloped by earth and flesh.

At first, Mayumi hesitated. They are not participants in this conflict, and neither should they give up that neutral status. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that this man would demonstrate the same courtesy after pulling him out of the rubble.

"Big sis, what is going on down there?" Satchiko asked.

Mayumi saw those pair of glimmering jade eyes that have recovered slightly from the relentless horror. It might or might not be true, but a warrior without something worth defending is nothing but a husk with a drained spirit. Her sister's dreadful self-contemplation is at least counterbalanced by the reminder that as Kyoshi Warriors, they still have the expectations of their people to fulfill. For them specifically, the blood of a hero flows in their veins, so bringing dishonor to the sisterhood would be a cowardly act.

Mayumi sighed. Her decisions are mostly made out of concern for her sister's wellbeing, and if assisting a stranger might help, so be it.

Batu took the initiative, leaping into the crater, followed by a hesitant Satchiko, who recoiled at the gruesome scene and accidentally stepped on a severed arm, intensifying her distress. Mayumi tried to comfort her sister, patting Satchiko's shoulder. Despite being accustomed to the sight of severed limbs and death, both sisters had yet to take lives of others. The violent acts of their mother, Akahana, against raiding pirates on their home island had instilled a different kind of courage in Satchiko. While slightly intimidated by the matron's ruthless tactics, the sight of their strongest warrior disemboweling pirates inspired a sense of defense among the villagers.

Yet, the current situation offered no honor or glory. The supposed invincibility of individual fighting spirits is drowned out by enemies numbering in the tens of thousands. The harsh reality of war proved to be far less romantic than the tales of heroic struggles.

"Together, all at once!" Mayumi shouted, rallying the trio to lift the giant disc. However, their efforts are in vain. Despite repeated attempts to alleviate the pressure on the trapped survivor, they only succeeded in further restricting his breathing.

"Hold on!" Batu cried. "Satchiko, aren't you an Earthbender? You can easily lift this coin off him!"

Satchiko lamented, and Mayumi gave Batu a doubtful look. The younger sister had yet to explore her full potential as an Earthbender, and expecting her to perform a significant feat of strength is unrealistic, considering her current skill level.

The survivor trapped beneath the coin exhibited a mix of hope and fear, as Earthbending is both the cause of his predicament and potentially his salvation. Mayumi and Batu stepped back, allowing Satchiko to attempt the task of freeing the man.

Closing her eyes and taking a deep breath, Satchiko struggled to focus her thoughts on the task at hand. The torment of the gruesome scenes around her, filled with the faces of the dead and their mutilated bodies, infiltrated her mind. Despite the low expectations, she initiated the attempt to lift the massive earth coin.

Nothing. The earth did not move to her will. She even tried to imitate the stance which Earthbenders used. Still nothing.

However, before Satchiko could again engage in her Earthbending, a loud sound echoed, interrupting her concentration. Expecting a successful effort, she eagerly opened her eyes, only to be disappointed to see that it was Lao Tie's group arriving to help. Among the scavengers was another Earthbender, though even for the experienced individual, manipulating these massive earth discs proved to be a challenging task.

With the pressure removed, the single surviving soldier managed to crawl out of the crater. His uniform, initially obscured by so much blood, revealed his identity as a native of Jian Xin.

"By the heavens, I am alive," he said with a traumatized voice, wearing a body whose spirit might have already left. "Thank you, strangers, unsure how I can repay your generosity. My name is Liu Song."

Satchiko, alarmed by the shared family name with the governor of Yi, was quickly reassured by Mayumi that the original Liu clan had many descendants scattered across the continent. Based on the texts in their father's collection, the Liu Clan is the founder of the Earth Kingdom's first golden age. During the era, fiefs and provinces are given to various relatives of the Earth King, resulting in many descendants scattered across the vast land. Today, even if a person possesses this royal surname, it meant nothing special. There are millions with this bearing this name, but few can meagerly live up to the legacy of their glorious founder, that peasant scoundrel who managed to sit on the throne of Ba Sing Se.

Expressing gratitude for their generosity, Liu Song explained his urgency to rejoin the battle. Despite his significantly weakened state, he picked up a spear and limped toward the assumed location of his enemies. Glancing at the crushed bodies underneath the giant disc, he seemed determined to continue the fight.

"Xiao Zhong dogs must die!" Liu Song exclaimed, and a large volume of blood suddenly spilled out of his throat. Batu and Satchiko quickly caught him before he could fall onto a stray blade that could puncture his lamellar vest. Although they could see injuries likely underneath the armor, they are very afraid to jump to any conclusions. Broken ribs and squashed organs are all hidden, creating a harsh challenge for even the most experienced physicians. In his desolated state, the soldier began murmuring incomprehensible words, but it vaguely translated to a desire for vengeance or being obligated to provide a proper burial for his friends.

"You might want to bring him to a doctor," Lao Tie reminded the youngsters. Being the oldest one of the three, Mayumi concurred. But this immediately drew Batu's objection, presenting some reasonable arguments despite his childish nature.

"He is a stranger!" Batu reminded them. "He's a soldier too. He might be dangerous to the tribe." The concern of compromising the entire tribe of Kheshig is a genuine one. This act of aiding a soldier from Jian Xin might incur the ire of any Xiao Zhong troops still patrolling in the region. Yet, Satchiko insisted on saving this man.

"But Batu, what about me and my sister?" Satchiko interjected. "We were strangers to you too. If we leave him here, he will certainly die." Those words alone instantly made Batu concede. Yet, he is still very closed to the idea of showing hospitality to someone who could threaten his people. But this is no mere turtle duck they are talking about. While the two may have slightly disagreed on their first encounter, they have a human life at stake here.

...

"Just who in the world is this?!" Ganbaatar bellowed. His drawn saber proved useless as Liu Song was already unconscious when the trio brought him back to the camp.

"It was my idea," Satchiko admitted, taking responsibility. "There was a border skirmish, and he is the last survivor."

While Ganbaatar appreciated Batu's procurement of many spare arrows, he expressed concern about their rash actions. Naturally, the two guests shouldn't be blamed, so he warned Batu not to engage in scouting without permission.

"Whatever information you three brought back better be valuable!" Ganbaatar barked. "The situation has changed, we might not be flying to Ba Sing Se."

The three youngsters gasped, especially the two sisters, whose entire journey was almost complete.

"W-wait, what happened?" Batu asked quickly.

The nomadic warrior guided them to Subutai's tent. Upon opening the flaps, they were greeted by a room filled with sickly people. Amidst their shock, Batu spotted his parents lying among the patients. He nearly screamed, assuming the worst. Before he could dash across to them, a woman's arm grabbed him by the waist, preventing this potentially dangerous endeavor.

"Sarangerel," Mayumi recognized the person with a veil across her face. "What has transpired so drastically?"

As Sarangerel tried to calm her brother from panicking, she explained that the rivers were polluted.

"Why?" Satchiko inquired, hoping for a more elaborate description. But Sarangerel refrained, sparing them the details.

"Just don't drink the waters from the rivers," Sarangerel warned. She turned to Satchiko specifically. "As for you, do not even look at it."

Mayumi sensed the gravity of that stark suggestion. After further discussion, it became apparent that those who had consumed the river water are now weak, unable to walk or bear heavy loads. Even more critical was the impact on their Sky Bisons, all had lost their ability to fly.

"Mum and dad, are they alright?" Batu inquired. His expression filled with fear.

"They are fine, just in need of rest," reassured Sarangerel.

They placed Liu Song in a separate tent under the care of the physician. Soon after, Ganbaatar arrived to escort them to the main tent, where the Khan awaited their presence.

...

"I commend you for your bravery," the Khan said as he savored some fermented milk. "Young people are indeed quite audacious these days."

Seated before the chieftain and some senior members of the tribe, Batu acknowledged his rash decision. Although his concern for a potential threat to the camp was reasonable, running off without permission wasn't the most prudent. Batu's relatively lenient punishment was influenced by luck, as the Sky Bisons' inability to fly left them vulnerable on land, emphasizing the importance of steeds for nomad warriors.

"Looks like the Eternal Sky has spared you from the lashes!" the old shaman jestingly remarked to the young troublemaker. "But you still need to clean Sky Bison dung as punishment."

Mayumi's vouching for Batu also helped ease the scorn from the seniors. The sudden plague that struck the camp made the information gathered from the scouting expedition valuable. Witnessing a costly battle between the two states reduced the number of soldiers patrolling the region, providing an ample opening toward Ba Sing Se's border. The interaction between the Khan and his advisors indicated a desire among nearby states to control trade flow. Simultaneously, armies are stationed on Ba Sing Se's borders, preventing peasants from venturing toward the grand bastions.

"But why would they stop people from reaching Ba Sing Se?" Mayumi inquired. "Isn't it natural that the war would create many refugees?"

"People are a resource of their own," Temujin emphasized. "What is the point of having fertile farmland or bountiful grazing grounds if there is no one to manage it?"

Under the prevailing system of enfeoffment across the continent, despite the previous Avatar's efforts, Earth Kingdom agrarian citizens are bound to their lands. They rely on the crops but must pay their dues to the respective nobles governing the land. Leaving their homes without finding another accepting location is challenging. Even if this initial hurdle is resolved, no sane lords would allow their citizens to leave in droves, abandoning the fields.

"Words from the nearby merchants all echo the same sentiment," Jargal declared from across the tent. "Locals attempting to flee to Ba Sing Se and escape the war are halted at the border."

Mayumi contemplated this situation. While conflict inevitably spawns refugees, a state losing its citizens is a foreboding sign. The exodus of capable workers and talented individuals from a warlord's domain would weaken its power and fortify another. In this case, both Jian Xin and Xiao Zhong faced a formidable entity at their doorstep. If Ba Sing Se were to suddenly participate in this war, their vast manpower alone could obliterate both states if no one else intervenes. Allowing free passage for their people into Ba Sing Se's borders would undoubtedly deplete the available number of farmers and affect their economy. Without spare citizens, less militias could be mustered during an emergency.

"We move when the moon rises," the Khan commanded. "Under the cover of the night, we will swiftly traverse this region."

The advisors and the captain, except for the shaman, displayed doubt on their faces. Many members of the Khan's court appeared uneasy about the impending action.

"What?" Temujin noticed their expressions, rebuking them sharply. "Are you afraid? No true warrior relies solely on their steed."

Despite the Khan's assertive words, nomads fighting on foot usually faced unfavorable outcomes. Encountering even a few hundred soldiers attempting to thwart their journey to the city would pose a considerable threat.

As everyone else exited the meeting tent to prepare for the night's perilous venture, the shaman presented the Khan with a new opportunity. There is someone else in the camp who could prove beneficial to the entire tribe if successfully brought to the city.

A lone scholar, adorned in dark green attire, entered the tent, piquing the Khan's interest. Initially uncertain about the wiseman's intentions, the chieftain's doubts began to dissipate as the newcomer revealed himself as a talented engineer from Xiao Zhong. Despite the shaman's reassurance, lingering skepticism needed to be addressed.

"If your people can aid me in reaching the walls of Ba Sing Se safely, you will not only be granted trading rights but also a spare pasture for your animals," the scholar proposed. "I have a benefactor inside the city, and his generosity knows no bounds."

The Khan withheld an immediate response. Past experiences had hardened his heart, making him cautious about trade negotiations, especially for nomads unfamiliar with the realms of Ba Sing Se.

"Would you like to examine my works?" the scholar offered, likely sensing the Khan's lingering suspicion.

Temujin perused a parchment presented by the man from Xiao Zhong. Recognizing the design instantly, he beheld a giant metal behemoth reminiscent of a siege weapon used during the Hundred Year War. If Xiao Zhong possessed the capability to construct and deploy such metal constructs, not even the formidable walls of Ba Sing Se might prove sufficient to stop them.

"You designed this yourself?" Temujin scrutinized the engineer, impressed yet cautious of this potent ingenuity. "Your mind is quite dangerous."

"I am flattered," the scholar replied with bow.

It is terrifying to believe how one man can replicate an engineering wonder from many years ago. The Khan now comprehended why Ba Sing Se sought to attract this man. If the city could lure away one of its neighbor's most skilled engineers, it would dismantle a potential threat at its very source. The individual who enticed this engineer to relocate likely recognized this and acted preemptively, even before the grand city openly displayed its military ambitions.

As the Khan contemplated, he acknowledged the potential risks involved in assisting this man. Xiao Zhong would undoubtedly resist allowing one of their most talented engineers to escape into Ba Sing Se's arms.