drunkenpandaren (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
drunkenpandaren) wrote2009-09-03 12:50 pm
drunkenpandaren) wrote2009-09-03 12:50 pm
Entry tags:
Bullet Points - Chapter 2 "There Is An Equal..."
Still unfinished, got about ten to twelve more scenes to finish up so far, and there's going to be a big massive Avatar State incident too before it's done. Still working hard on it though in between marathoning Season 1 and 2.
There Is An Equal…
“Nice day today.”
“Yep.”
“AWK!” Sokka slammed into the wall and slid down it.
“Peaceful,” said Hakoda.
“Yep.” Replied Tenzin.
The men drank their tea as Sokka staggered to his feet as his instructor gazed down on him. The serenity strained in the elderly monk’s gaze, he called out, “Widen your stance Avatar Sokka. Then you will not be pushed so easily by the wind.”
“Yeah well it’s really hard to keep it all together,” groaned Sokka, feeling something pop in his spine. “Ow.”
Hakoda watched Sokka go, a thoughtful expression on his face.
That afternoon, after everyone had gathered for the evening meals, Hakoda spoke up. “Sokka, I’ve been watching your Airbending lessons in between fishing trips. And I’ve come to the conclusion that you’re just not cut out for learning Airbending just yet.”
“Dad, it’s only been a week,” reminded Sokka.
“I know son, just hear me out.” Hakoda tapped the table, making a swirling motion with his chopsticks. “You see Sokka, I’ve been talking with your son Tenzin, and he and I both agree that you’re currently too stubborn to learn Airbending. It’s all about calm and serenity, none of which you displayed back home I have to admit.”
“Dad…” said Katara.
“Then what am I supposed to do?” asked Sokka. “I can’t just give up on the monks.”
“I’m saying that’s precisely what you need to do for a short period of time,” said Hakoda. “You see Sokka, being the Avatar; they expect you to be a genius at bending. But the fact is that you’ve denied this part of yourself for 16 years. They can’t expect you to switch it on as it were; you need to ease into it gradually. Or as you prefer, to run headlong into it. Airbending is all about solving things with a minimum of violence, something you’ve never been particularly good with. My suggestion is to find a teacher to help you focus that stubbornness first and foremost, before moving into Earthbending. The stubborn traits you display will aid you in mastering those two elements first, rather than Airbending or Waterbending.”
“You know? You have a point… since I started I always felt frustrated. It’s not really fighting to me; it’s more like, I dunno, dancing or something.” Mused Sokka.
“Is that why the Water Sages wanted him to learn Airbending first?” asked Katara and Hakoda nodded. “I see. They were hoping Sokka would find the temperament for bending with them by skipping his own native element.”
“Exactly, but in this case it’s only aiding to frustrate Sokka. However, I do have a person in mind that could help. He’s a man Tenzin recommended, a swordmaster who lives in the Fire Nation called Piandao.”
“A sword master…” Sokka brightened up. “I DO like pointy objects!”
“Then we’ll bring up the issue tomorrow then,” said Hakoda. Finishing his meal, he added, “I have to get back to curing the fish I caught at Kiyoshi. That Unagi of their set me back a little in my trip.”
“You didn’t get too hurt, did you dad?” asked Katara.
“No I’m fine; a little roughed up but the people there were gracious enough to patch me back up. A little reclusive but they opened up once I told them my son was the Avatar.” Hakoda grinned at Katara and Sokka’s expressions. “Hey, it’s my way of saying I’m proud of you kids.”
“This is most irregular, to quit in the middle of training,” mused Pema. “No Avatar has quit in the middle of their life’s training in order to learn the way of the sword.”
“I know, but this is important for me,” said Sokka. “You’ve all seen it: I don’t have the temperament to learn Airbending or Waterbending first. I have to learn the way of the sword, to discipline myself before I can become open enough for these arts.”
“I see.” Pema stood and regarded the Avatar who shifted a little. “If that is your wish Avatar, we will humbly allow it. But you must remember to return to master our ways.”
“Of course I will.” Said Sokka, bowing.
“And as a parting gift, I’d like to take you to someplace special. This way please.”
Several flights of stairs later, Pema opened the doors to a large cavernous area where sky bison of all kinds roamed around. “Sky Bison are the method of transport for all Air Nomads as well as the gliders. However, since you are on a quest of self-enlightenment, the council has decided that you need a method of transport.”
“They’re so… fuzzy…” said Sokka.
“Choose a Bison Sokka, though remember that many of them are bonded with others, and some will disregard you for your original alignment with the element of water. But in time, one will regard you as their own.” Pema smiled as she left the Avatar to his duty.
Walking into the large room, Sokka cleared his throat. “Uh hi, Sky Bison? I’m Sokka, I’m the new Avatar.”
Silence save for the chewing of hay and other assorted foodstuffs.
“I’m supposed to choose one of you guys as a mount and friend so lets get this over with.”
The first Bison Sokka approached growled at him, making the boy back off immediately. This was followed by several others that refused to respond to his commands even after managing to get a saddle on them. Others were small and tiny, newborns that clustered around his feet making little grunting noises.
Finally, Sokka groaned and sat down next to an elderly bison. “Hey buddy, looks like you’re the last one.”
The bison looked at him and returned to his food.
“Yeah I figured you’d say that.” Drawing his knees up, Sokka clasped his arms around them. “I’m not cut out for this sort of thing, being the Avatar I mean. There’s so much pressure and expectation and for the longest time I’ve been the guy with the boomerang; the one who disliked all of this magic they’re throwing around. And look; Katara’s better at bending Water. If I really were the Avatar, I would just lift my hand and the world would dance for me. But I’m not.”
The bison rumbled and Sokka shook his head. “I know what you must be saying buddy. I’m getting too down on myself, but the fact is that I really don’t know why I need to be the Avatar. The world’s at peace and there’s nothing for me to solve. I’m going to be known as Avatar Sokka – the useless.”
The Bison rumbled and turned to Sokka who looked up just in time to get a big pink tongue in his face. “YUCK!” proclaimed Sokka, wiping his face.
Looking at the Bison who stared back, Sokka got to his feet. “You seem… familiar?”
Reaching out, he patted it and the Bison nudged him in reply. “…Appa,” said Sokka, a name coming to him.
“You’ve picked well Avatar Sokka,” said Pema from the doorway. Sokka turned and the elderly monk smiled at him. “You see, this was the Bison of Avatar Aang.”
“Really?” said Sokka and Appa rumbled in the affirmative. “Huh, imagine that.”
“It is no coincidence,” said the elderly woman with a smile on her face. “You see, the Avatar is instinctively drawn to things and people and even familiar friends. Despite getting on in his years, Appa is still the swiftest Sky Bison in the entire world. And he has been waiting for you Avatar Sokka.”
“But why me? He could have just, y’know, found someone else.” Sokka was licked again. “Eew.”
“Because Appa knew that you would need him, both as a friend and a companion.” Pema looked Sokka in the eye and said, “Have him carry you on your journey Avatar, for there is a strong bond with the skies in you. Despite your reluctance to learn the ways of our people, you also have the spirit to soar in the wind like your previous incarnation. It’s just inside you.” And Pema tapped his chest.
“Thank you Pema.” Sokka bowed to Pema who bowed back.
“Master Piandao lives in the village of Shu Jing, near the southern tip of the Fire Nation’s main island,” said Hakoda as the kids loaded up Appa who was ready to depart. “Tenzin wants you to give him this letter as a means of introduction.”
Sokka took the letter and tucked it into his bag as Hakoda added, “its north of the port town of Long. It will be a long trip and by the time you reach Long it will be dark. So I suggest you get some rest there. From there, it’s about a day’s travel by bison or four days walk.”
“Thanks dad,” said Sokka.
Hakoda smiled as he looked at Katara. “I also have something for you from Gran Gran.”
Katara blinked as she was given a small letter. “It’s a means of introduction to Chief Arnook of the Northern Water Tribe, and there’s something from Gran Gran that should get you a Waterbending Master when you arrive. She muttered something about “stupid stuck up traditions” so I just left it at that.”
Katara smiled, hugged her father and took the letter. “Thank you dad.”
Hakoda nodded and added, “Just never run off again, all right?” Katara blushed.
“Now then, you two better get going. Appa?” The bison rumbled. “Keep watch over my son and my daughter will you?” Hakoda was licked and he smiled, wiping the slobber from his face. “Friendly Bison ain’t he?”
“Yeah he really is.” Said Sokka. “Gonna miss you. I know we just said goodbye two weeks ago but…”
“Hey. Just try to visit as much as possible,” said Hakoda. “Keep safe and take care of each other. The last thing I want to hear is tales of Avatar Sokka losing his pants in the middle of a big ceremony or something.”
Sokka blushed in embarrassment and Katara smothered giggles.
Getting on Appa, he rubbed the Bison’s head. “All right, we’re off then dad.”
“Wait!” Sokka and Katara looked up at Tashi and Sokka jumped off of Appa. “Wait, Gramp Gramp!”
Running up, Tashi puffed. “I wanted… to give you this before you left,” panted Tashi as he handed Sokka a bundle. “It was your favourite outfit when you were still Gramp Gramp Aang.”
Sokka opened it and a simple cloak of yellow spilled out. And on the front was the symbol of the Air Nomads. Sokka smiled, wrapping it around his neck and fastening it in place. “Thanks Tashi,” he said, rubbing his grandson’s bald head. “I’ll wear it all the time.”
Tashi hugged Sokka around his legs. “I’m going to miss you Gramp Gramp,” said Tashi softly.
“I know. I’ll come back and next time I’ll have something for you. I promise,” said Sokka.
Tashi sniffed and returned to the family who was waiting for him. Rinchen smiled and waved, Tenzin was surprisingly misty eyed and his wife Sonam was patting him on the shoulder. Raising a hand in farewell, Sokka clambered up to Appa’s neck, glanced at Katara who nodded and called out, “I’ll be back soon! Lets go Appa! Giddy up!”
Appa didn’t move and Sokka waggled the reigns a little.
“Gramp Gramp!” called out Tashi. “The command is Yip Yip!”
“Yip Yip?” echoed Sokka and then let out a “WHOA!” as Appa took off like a cannonshot. “I’ll see you guys all later!” he yelled as they took off towards the Fire Nation.
“He’s going the wrong way,” said Hakoda. “Oh wait, there he goes.”
“You know this isn’t so bad,” said Sokka conversationally as Appa flew across the vast expanse of ocean towards the Fire Nation that could slowly be creeping towards them. “We don’t have to wait for the tides or fight a massive storm or worry about rocks or anything!”
“Yeah, and while it’s a little cold up here, it’s not so bad,” admitted Katara. “Do you think this Master Pinandao will take you in?”
“I dunno really,” replied Sokka. “They said they have everything arranged but I really want to feel like I earn this training, you know?”
Katara laughed a little. “Yeah, I’ll bet. It’s not like you just to accept freebies. Well, not OFTEN at least.”
Sokka made a face. “Gee thanks.”
“I’m serious though,” said Katara. “You’ve always been a big advocate of hard work when you’re not being incredibly lazy. And when you’re motivated, there’s nothing else you’d rather do but finish the job. Gotta say Sokka, you can be a mishmash of contradictions.”
“I don’t know if you were complimenting me or giving me a backhanded one,” admitted Sokka.
“Hey, you can see the port from here,” said Katara, pointing at the shoreline. A large thriving port town was glittering against the backdrop of the volcanic landscape and sea. “It’s beautiful.”
“I can’t believe they have buildings that don’t melt in the sun,” admitted Sokka and Katara snorted in laughter. “What, they don’t!”
“Just land Appa somewhere,” said Katara.
Sokka poked the wall of a random building and stated, “Yep, doesn’t melt.” Katara gave him a look and he shrugged. “It’s so HOT here too.”
“Yeah, I’m boiling,” agreed Katara as she pulled off her jacket that was required for traveling in the sky. “Leave your jacket with Appa.”
Leaving their jackets with the pair, Sokka and Katara headed into the town. The town was predominantly done up in reds, made from the volcanic rock of the surrounding area. “You know we totally stand out here,” remarked Sokka, indicating their blue outfits.
“You more than me with that silly looking shawl of yours,” smirked Katara.
“Hey, it’s not a shawl, it’s a traditional Airbender cloak,” defended Sokka. “Doesn’t it look good on me?”
“It clashes with your blue,” replied Katara and Sokka made a face. “C’mon smart guy, lets get you some new clothes.”
Hauling Sokka into the nearest clothing store, the man at the front looked up and regarded the pair curiously. “Here to buy some clothes kids?”
“Yeah, just something to make Mr. Shawl over here stand out a little less.” Pointed out Katara. “And an extra set of clothes wouldn’t hurt for me either.”
The man regarded the pair and nodded. “I’ve got just the thing. Come with me.”
“I look silly,” said Sokka as he examined himself in the mirror. Dressed in red with the airbender shawl across his shoulders, he sighed. “At least it matches a little, right Katara?”
“You say something Sokka?” asked Katara, emerging from the change room wearing a red silk robe. Examining her brother from head to toe, she remarked, “You don’t clash as badly as before.”
“Gee thanks. And what’s with YOUR outfit?” he inquired. “That outfit shows way too much skin! Are you trying to catch the eye of every guy in the world?”
“Hey, this place is way too hot for my usual clothes. It’s light and airy and I like it.” Defended Katara.
The shopkeep looked between the pair and remarked, “Are you two SURE you’re not together? You act like it.”
“NO,” enunciated Katara.”We’re brother and sister.”
The man scratched his head. “Okay, if you say so.”
“Seriously are we going to run into this running gag everywhere we go?” inquired Sokka as he paid the man for their clothes.
“No vacancy?” exclaimed Sokka of the innkeeper. “Aw c’mon, I’m the Avatar! Can’t you make an exception?”
“Kid, I get that excuse a lot.” Replied the man. “And for the record? That’s the worst looking shawl I’ve seen.”
“It’s not a shawl it’s a cape!” exclaimed Sokka, frustrated. “Is there ANYTHING left?”
“Just the stables, and that’s taken up by some kind of fuzzy monster.” Replied the man.
“That’s because I put Appa in there,” grumbled Sokka. “Please, is there anything else OTHER than stables?”
“Sokka quit it. It’s not like it’s the first time we’ve camped out,” snapped Katara, hitting her brother on the shoulder. “We’ll take the stables.”
Walking out, Sokka muttered to himself. “Great. First time we’re in the Fire Nation and we wind up sleeping in the stables. Is this any way to treat the Avatar?”
“You do realize that being the Avatar doesn’t give a automatic pass to everything fancy and expensive right?” said Katara, folding her arms. “Stop using it as a playing card!”
Sokka grumbled. “Sure, spoil my fun and abuse of The Avatar card.”
“You’re the Avatar?” cut in a voice that belonged to a young teenage girl. “My name is On Ji, and I heard you’re looking for a place to stay.”
“See Katara?” said Sokka smugly. “The Avatar Card ALWAYS works!” As Katara facepalmed, he turned to On Ji. “Yeah, I’m Sokka, and this is Katara my SISTER,” he enunciated just to make sure the seemingly endless running gag made itself known. “We’re looking for a place to stay before we head towards Shu Jing in the morning.”
“Well my house is just up the hill,” said On Ji, indicating a huge home on the side of the mountain. “I’m sure my parents wouldn’t object to giving you a place to stay for the night.” Sokka’s stomach growled and she laughed. “and I doubt my mom will object to feeding you two as well.”
“So the reason why the Inn is so full is because of a festival?” asked Katara of On Ji as the girls were bunking down for the evening.
“Yes, it’s our yearly festival. With the oncoming of Winter, we pray to the sun to give us a good endurance through the season. Firebenders feel worse in the winter, we get sick a lot actually.” Explained On Ji. “So in a way, it’s also a way to promote help for the community.”
There Is An Equal…
“Nice day today.”
“Yep.”
“AWK!” Sokka slammed into the wall and slid down it.
“Peaceful,” said Hakoda.
“Yep.” Replied Tenzin.
The men drank their tea as Sokka staggered to his feet as his instructor gazed down on him. The serenity strained in the elderly monk’s gaze, he called out, “Widen your stance Avatar Sokka. Then you will not be pushed so easily by the wind.”
“Yeah well it’s really hard to keep it all together,” groaned Sokka, feeling something pop in his spine. “Ow.”
Hakoda watched Sokka go, a thoughtful expression on his face.
That afternoon, after everyone had gathered for the evening meals, Hakoda spoke up. “Sokka, I’ve been watching your Airbending lessons in between fishing trips. And I’ve come to the conclusion that you’re just not cut out for learning Airbending just yet.”
“Dad, it’s only been a week,” reminded Sokka.
“I know son, just hear me out.” Hakoda tapped the table, making a swirling motion with his chopsticks. “You see Sokka, I’ve been talking with your son Tenzin, and he and I both agree that you’re currently too stubborn to learn Airbending. It’s all about calm and serenity, none of which you displayed back home I have to admit.”
“Dad…” said Katara.
“Then what am I supposed to do?” asked Sokka. “I can’t just give up on the monks.”
“I’m saying that’s precisely what you need to do for a short period of time,” said Hakoda. “You see Sokka, being the Avatar; they expect you to be a genius at bending. But the fact is that you’ve denied this part of yourself for 16 years. They can’t expect you to switch it on as it were; you need to ease into it gradually. Or as you prefer, to run headlong into it. Airbending is all about solving things with a minimum of violence, something you’ve never been particularly good with. My suggestion is to find a teacher to help you focus that stubbornness first and foremost, before moving into Earthbending. The stubborn traits you display will aid you in mastering those two elements first, rather than Airbending or Waterbending.”
“You know? You have a point… since I started I always felt frustrated. It’s not really fighting to me; it’s more like, I dunno, dancing or something.” Mused Sokka.
“Is that why the Water Sages wanted him to learn Airbending first?” asked Katara and Hakoda nodded. “I see. They were hoping Sokka would find the temperament for bending with them by skipping his own native element.”
“Exactly, but in this case it’s only aiding to frustrate Sokka. However, I do have a person in mind that could help. He’s a man Tenzin recommended, a swordmaster who lives in the Fire Nation called Piandao.”
“A sword master…” Sokka brightened up. “I DO like pointy objects!”
“Then we’ll bring up the issue tomorrow then,” said Hakoda. Finishing his meal, he added, “I have to get back to curing the fish I caught at Kiyoshi. That Unagi of their set me back a little in my trip.”
“You didn’t get too hurt, did you dad?” asked Katara.
“No I’m fine; a little roughed up but the people there were gracious enough to patch me back up. A little reclusive but they opened up once I told them my son was the Avatar.” Hakoda grinned at Katara and Sokka’s expressions. “Hey, it’s my way of saying I’m proud of you kids.”
“This is most irregular, to quit in the middle of training,” mused Pema. “No Avatar has quit in the middle of their life’s training in order to learn the way of the sword.”
“I know, but this is important for me,” said Sokka. “You’ve all seen it: I don’t have the temperament to learn Airbending or Waterbending first. I have to learn the way of the sword, to discipline myself before I can become open enough for these arts.”
“I see.” Pema stood and regarded the Avatar who shifted a little. “If that is your wish Avatar, we will humbly allow it. But you must remember to return to master our ways.”
“Of course I will.” Said Sokka, bowing.
“And as a parting gift, I’d like to take you to someplace special. This way please.”
Several flights of stairs later, Pema opened the doors to a large cavernous area where sky bison of all kinds roamed around. “Sky Bison are the method of transport for all Air Nomads as well as the gliders. However, since you are on a quest of self-enlightenment, the council has decided that you need a method of transport.”
“They’re so… fuzzy…” said Sokka.
“Choose a Bison Sokka, though remember that many of them are bonded with others, and some will disregard you for your original alignment with the element of water. But in time, one will regard you as their own.” Pema smiled as she left the Avatar to his duty.
Walking into the large room, Sokka cleared his throat. “Uh hi, Sky Bison? I’m Sokka, I’m the new Avatar.”
Silence save for the chewing of hay and other assorted foodstuffs.
“I’m supposed to choose one of you guys as a mount and friend so lets get this over with.”
The first Bison Sokka approached growled at him, making the boy back off immediately. This was followed by several others that refused to respond to his commands even after managing to get a saddle on them. Others were small and tiny, newborns that clustered around his feet making little grunting noises.
Finally, Sokka groaned and sat down next to an elderly bison. “Hey buddy, looks like you’re the last one.”
The bison looked at him and returned to his food.
“Yeah I figured you’d say that.” Drawing his knees up, Sokka clasped his arms around them. “I’m not cut out for this sort of thing, being the Avatar I mean. There’s so much pressure and expectation and for the longest time I’ve been the guy with the boomerang; the one who disliked all of this magic they’re throwing around. And look; Katara’s better at bending Water. If I really were the Avatar, I would just lift my hand and the world would dance for me. But I’m not.”
The bison rumbled and Sokka shook his head. “I know what you must be saying buddy. I’m getting too down on myself, but the fact is that I really don’t know why I need to be the Avatar. The world’s at peace and there’s nothing for me to solve. I’m going to be known as Avatar Sokka – the useless.”
The Bison rumbled and turned to Sokka who looked up just in time to get a big pink tongue in his face. “YUCK!” proclaimed Sokka, wiping his face.
Looking at the Bison who stared back, Sokka got to his feet. “You seem… familiar?”
Reaching out, he patted it and the Bison nudged him in reply. “…Appa,” said Sokka, a name coming to him.
“You’ve picked well Avatar Sokka,” said Pema from the doorway. Sokka turned and the elderly monk smiled at him. “You see, this was the Bison of Avatar Aang.”
“Really?” said Sokka and Appa rumbled in the affirmative. “Huh, imagine that.”
“It is no coincidence,” said the elderly woman with a smile on her face. “You see, the Avatar is instinctively drawn to things and people and even familiar friends. Despite getting on in his years, Appa is still the swiftest Sky Bison in the entire world. And he has been waiting for you Avatar Sokka.”
“But why me? He could have just, y’know, found someone else.” Sokka was licked again. “Eew.”
“Because Appa knew that you would need him, both as a friend and a companion.” Pema looked Sokka in the eye and said, “Have him carry you on your journey Avatar, for there is a strong bond with the skies in you. Despite your reluctance to learn the ways of our people, you also have the spirit to soar in the wind like your previous incarnation. It’s just inside you.” And Pema tapped his chest.
“Thank you Pema.” Sokka bowed to Pema who bowed back.
“Master Piandao lives in the village of Shu Jing, near the southern tip of the Fire Nation’s main island,” said Hakoda as the kids loaded up Appa who was ready to depart. “Tenzin wants you to give him this letter as a means of introduction.”
Sokka took the letter and tucked it into his bag as Hakoda added, “its north of the port town of Long. It will be a long trip and by the time you reach Long it will be dark. So I suggest you get some rest there. From there, it’s about a day’s travel by bison or four days walk.”
“Thanks dad,” said Sokka.
Hakoda smiled as he looked at Katara. “I also have something for you from Gran Gran.”
Katara blinked as she was given a small letter. “It’s a means of introduction to Chief Arnook of the Northern Water Tribe, and there’s something from Gran Gran that should get you a Waterbending Master when you arrive. She muttered something about “stupid stuck up traditions” so I just left it at that.”
Katara smiled, hugged her father and took the letter. “Thank you dad.”
Hakoda nodded and added, “Just never run off again, all right?” Katara blushed.
“Now then, you two better get going. Appa?” The bison rumbled. “Keep watch over my son and my daughter will you?” Hakoda was licked and he smiled, wiping the slobber from his face. “Friendly Bison ain’t he?”
“Yeah he really is.” Said Sokka. “Gonna miss you. I know we just said goodbye two weeks ago but…”
“Hey. Just try to visit as much as possible,” said Hakoda. “Keep safe and take care of each other. The last thing I want to hear is tales of Avatar Sokka losing his pants in the middle of a big ceremony or something.”
Sokka blushed in embarrassment and Katara smothered giggles.
Getting on Appa, he rubbed the Bison’s head. “All right, we’re off then dad.”
“Wait!” Sokka and Katara looked up at Tashi and Sokka jumped off of Appa. “Wait, Gramp Gramp!”
Running up, Tashi puffed. “I wanted… to give you this before you left,” panted Tashi as he handed Sokka a bundle. “It was your favourite outfit when you were still Gramp Gramp Aang.”
Sokka opened it and a simple cloak of yellow spilled out. And on the front was the symbol of the Air Nomads. Sokka smiled, wrapping it around his neck and fastening it in place. “Thanks Tashi,” he said, rubbing his grandson’s bald head. “I’ll wear it all the time.”
Tashi hugged Sokka around his legs. “I’m going to miss you Gramp Gramp,” said Tashi softly.
“I know. I’ll come back and next time I’ll have something for you. I promise,” said Sokka.
Tashi sniffed and returned to the family who was waiting for him. Rinchen smiled and waved, Tenzin was surprisingly misty eyed and his wife Sonam was patting him on the shoulder. Raising a hand in farewell, Sokka clambered up to Appa’s neck, glanced at Katara who nodded and called out, “I’ll be back soon! Lets go Appa! Giddy up!”
Appa didn’t move and Sokka waggled the reigns a little.
“Gramp Gramp!” called out Tashi. “The command is Yip Yip!”
“Yip Yip?” echoed Sokka and then let out a “WHOA!” as Appa took off like a cannonshot. “I’ll see you guys all later!” he yelled as they took off towards the Fire Nation.
“He’s going the wrong way,” said Hakoda. “Oh wait, there he goes.”
“You know this isn’t so bad,” said Sokka conversationally as Appa flew across the vast expanse of ocean towards the Fire Nation that could slowly be creeping towards them. “We don’t have to wait for the tides or fight a massive storm or worry about rocks or anything!”
“Yeah, and while it’s a little cold up here, it’s not so bad,” admitted Katara. “Do you think this Master Pinandao will take you in?”
“I dunno really,” replied Sokka. “They said they have everything arranged but I really want to feel like I earn this training, you know?”
Katara laughed a little. “Yeah, I’ll bet. It’s not like you just to accept freebies. Well, not OFTEN at least.”
Sokka made a face. “Gee thanks.”
“I’m serious though,” said Katara. “You’ve always been a big advocate of hard work when you’re not being incredibly lazy. And when you’re motivated, there’s nothing else you’d rather do but finish the job. Gotta say Sokka, you can be a mishmash of contradictions.”
“I don’t know if you were complimenting me or giving me a backhanded one,” admitted Sokka.
“Hey, you can see the port from here,” said Katara, pointing at the shoreline. A large thriving port town was glittering against the backdrop of the volcanic landscape and sea. “It’s beautiful.”
“I can’t believe they have buildings that don’t melt in the sun,” admitted Sokka and Katara snorted in laughter. “What, they don’t!”
“Just land Appa somewhere,” said Katara.
Sokka poked the wall of a random building and stated, “Yep, doesn’t melt.” Katara gave him a look and he shrugged. “It’s so HOT here too.”
“Yeah, I’m boiling,” agreed Katara as she pulled off her jacket that was required for traveling in the sky. “Leave your jacket with Appa.”
Leaving their jackets with the pair, Sokka and Katara headed into the town. The town was predominantly done up in reds, made from the volcanic rock of the surrounding area. “You know we totally stand out here,” remarked Sokka, indicating their blue outfits.
“You more than me with that silly looking shawl of yours,” smirked Katara.
“Hey, it’s not a shawl, it’s a traditional Airbender cloak,” defended Sokka. “Doesn’t it look good on me?”
“It clashes with your blue,” replied Katara and Sokka made a face. “C’mon smart guy, lets get you some new clothes.”
Hauling Sokka into the nearest clothing store, the man at the front looked up and regarded the pair curiously. “Here to buy some clothes kids?”
“Yeah, just something to make Mr. Shawl over here stand out a little less.” Pointed out Katara. “And an extra set of clothes wouldn’t hurt for me either.”
The man regarded the pair and nodded. “I’ve got just the thing. Come with me.”
“I look silly,” said Sokka as he examined himself in the mirror. Dressed in red with the airbender shawl across his shoulders, he sighed. “At least it matches a little, right Katara?”
“You say something Sokka?” asked Katara, emerging from the change room wearing a red silk robe. Examining her brother from head to toe, she remarked, “You don’t clash as badly as before.”
“Gee thanks. And what’s with YOUR outfit?” he inquired. “That outfit shows way too much skin! Are you trying to catch the eye of every guy in the world?”
“Hey, this place is way too hot for my usual clothes. It’s light and airy and I like it.” Defended Katara.
The shopkeep looked between the pair and remarked, “Are you two SURE you’re not together? You act like it.”
“NO,” enunciated Katara.”We’re brother and sister.”
The man scratched his head. “Okay, if you say so.”
“Seriously are we going to run into this running gag everywhere we go?” inquired Sokka as he paid the man for their clothes.
“No vacancy?” exclaimed Sokka of the innkeeper. “Aw c’mon, I’m the Avatar! Can’t you make an exception?”
“Kid, I get that excuse a lot.” Replied the man. “And for the record? That’s the worst looking shawl I’ve seen.”
“It’s not a shawl it’s a cape!” exclaimed Sokka, frustrated. “Is there ANYTHING left?”
“Just the stables, and that’s taken up by some kind of fuzzy monster.” Replied the man.
“That’s because I put Appa in there,” grumbled Sokka. “Please, is there anything else OTHER than stables?”
“Sokka quit it. It’s not like it’s the first time we’ve camped out,” snapped Katara, hitting her brother on the shoulder. “We’ll take the stables.”
Walking out, Sokka muttered to himself. “Great. First time we’re in the Fire Nation and we wind up sleeping in the stables. Is this any way to treat the Avatar?”
“You do realize that being the Avatar doesn’t give a automatic pass to everything fancy and expensive right?” said Katara, folding her arms. “Stop using it as a playing card!”
Sokka grumbled. “Sure, spoil my fun and abuse of The Avatar card.”
“You’re the Avatar?” cut in a voice that belonged to a young teenage girl. “My name is On Ji, and I heard you’re looking for a place to stay.”
“See Katara?” said Sokka smugly. “The Avatar Card ALWAYS works!” As Katara facepalmed, he turned to On Ji. “Yeah, I’m Sokka, and this is Katara my SISTER,” he enunciated just to make sure the seemingly endless running gag made itself known. “We’re looking for a place to stay before we head towards Shu Jing in the morning.”
“Well my house is just up the hill,” said On Ji, indicating a huge home on the side of the mountain. “I’m sure my parents wouldn’t object to giving you a place to stay for the night.” Sokka’s stomach growled and she laughed. “and I doubt my mom will object to feeding you two as well.”
“So the reason why the Inn is so full is because of a festival?” asked Katara of On Ji as the girls were bunking down for the evening.
“Yes, it’s our yearly festival. With the oncoming of Winter, we pray to the sun to give us a good endurance through the season. Firebenders feel worse in the winter, we get sick a lot actually.” Explained On Ji. “So in a way, it’s also a way to promote help for the community.”