clearsunrise
Pupil Sokka
Waterbending Admiral of the Zutarian Army
Posts: 5,462
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Post by clearsunrise on Mar 6, 2007 12:26:55 GMT -5
Hey^_^. Hope you're happy, Power. Ok this is my first(and only) story. Power has requested that I post it here as well as where I've been posting it. I was planning this story well before the Desert, so episodes after City of Walls and Secrets won't necessarily be followed. As always, this chapter is dedicated to all the people who helped me out writing it. You guys know who you are. I have up to chapter 6 already.
Disclaimer: I don't own Avatar. Although the characters that I add in here are mine so please don't use them without asking. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Live for Love Chapter One The Fall of Ba Sing Se
The sun rose slowly over the horizon. His shift was almost over after hours of outer wall guard duty. The Fire Nation army hadn’t attacked the walls for weeks. The silence of the opposing army made his comrades and him a little more uneasy everyday. He knew it was only a matter of time before the firebenders went after the “impenetrable” walls again.
All quiet over there, Lei?”
Startled, he turned towards the voice. Seeing who it was, he bowed and replied, “Yes, Captain Phong.”
The captain responded apprehensively, “Keep a close watch on the wall until your relief arrives. The air feels strangely...unsettling.”
”Yes, sir.”
Phong nodded and continued along the wall. Lei sighed. To think, he thought his days would be easier with the Avatar in Ba Sing Se. Turning to look towards his home, he felt the stones beneath his feet vibrate. He stood in place for a moment. Not feeling the ground tremble again, he shrugged and walked the rest of the way to the edge of Ba Sing Se.
He loved his home more than anything and had joined the army to protect it. He would do anything to protect this great city. Every time he gazed at its beauty, his eyes would light up. From the monorail to the University, this city amazed him everyday.
He glanced down as he saw movement out of the corner of his eye. The light from the sun was not yet bright enough for him to see easily, so he was forced to squint his eyes. He saw what looked to be five or so individual shapes, with what looked to be helmets of the Earth Kingdom’s army, atop their heads. Two of the shapes moved in motions that appeared to be earthbending movements. As the two finished, Lei felt the vibrations, which he had passed off as imagination due to fatigue, once more. This time though, the tremors felt stronger as if the wall beneath him had grown weaker.
Turning hurriedly to his superior, he saw Captain Phong looking grimly down to the foot of the opposite side of the wall. The captain turned to him, yelling for him to blow the horn to warn the city. Lei rushed to follow the orders. Reaching the horn, he blew as hard as he could. The sound of it resonated around Ba Sing Se before it was cut short as the outer wall of the impenetrable city came tumbling down.
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As soon as Mayumi felt the thunderous sound of warning shake the walls of her home, she knew her good fortune had ended. Running towards the north gate with the other panicked inhabitants of Ba Sing Se, a million thoughts flashed through her mind.
She had come to Ba Sing Se to start anew. A place where no one knew of her past, and no one cast pitying glances towards her whenever she walked by. She was an orphan, both of her parents having died during an invasion of her village. She had been very young then.
Although the townsfolk pitied her, no one could afford to take her in. She survived by working, with food as her pay. If she were lucky, some of her employers would let her sleep in the hay in their barns. When she was fourteen, two years ago, she decided to leave her home. She had heard of the wonders of Ba Sing Se and wanted to try her luck in the grand city.
When she arrived, she was awestruck, not having expected it to be so large and wondrous. Again having to work for food, she was able to acquire a steady job, thanks to a soldier by the name of Lei. She saved as much of her money as she could. Eventually, she was able to make enough for her dream. A small, though successful, flower shop on the streets of Ba Sing Se. Lei would come by every now and then to check on her.
She had had the shop for almost a year. Then, came the sound that she had feared. The horn not only signaled the fall of the great city, but of her dream as well. Now, she was running for her life. Through the stampede of fleeing people, she spotted a small girl who seemed to be lost. Making a sharp detour, she swiftly picked up the child and continued running. She felt the terrified girl’s arms wrap tightly around her.
The north gate came into view, making the weight on her heart lift a little. Maybe she could make it. Maybe her dream wasn’t completely destroyed. She felt a sharp pain in her back. Looking back and down, she saw an arrow protruding from her back. She felt a warm substance flow down her, as she grew dizzier with each step. She knew she couldn’t give up just yet. She had to get the girl outside the wall.
She saw a small group of people her age ushering people out of the city. Two seemed to be Water Tribe, one seemed to be a blind earth girl, and the last had the markings of an airbender with a small, furry animal on his shoulder.
Somehow knowing she could trust them, Mayumi used the last of her strength to bring the child to them.
As she collapsed, she asked them to take care of the girl. As her eyes grew heavier, she hoped the girl would live a better life than she herself had. She wished the child a life with no regrets. Her one regret was not telling him how she felt.
Softly she said her last word, “Lei…”, as her lids slide shut, blocking her eyes from the image of Ba Sing Se falling to the Fire Nation.
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Princess Azula strode calmly through Ba Sing Se. The streets were littered with the fallen of both sides. The Earth soldiers had held her army off as long as they could, allowing many of Ba Sing Se’s citizens to flee. Not all had made it though. She had plenty of prisoners.
She looked up as a young soldier ran up to her.
Bowing, he began his report, “We’ve suffered a few loses, but it appears the Earth Kingdom has lost more. However, the Earth King and the Avatar appear to have escaped, your highness.”
Seeing the princess’s expression, the soldier flinched.
Hurriedly, he finished his report, saying, “We did manage to apprehend one of your targets, your highness.”
Eyes flashing in impatience, she asked, “Well, who is it?”
At the soldier’s signal, a few others stepped forward, leading an older man. The top of his head was bald, and time had not been kind to his rather rotund stomach.
Azula’s eyes gleamed evilly, “Why hello, Uncle. It’s been a long time.”
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Power
Fire Lord Zuko
Kataangian Elite. Air/Water Warrior
Toph and Sokka. Every day they get closer to each other.
Posts: 8,513
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Post by Power on Mar 6, 2007 16:03:36 GMT -5
Very interesting chapter clear, AS I can remember this grasped my attention almost quickly in almost at the end its like the preparation of an imminent battle. *Karma when my hour ends*
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Post by Ignite on Mar 6, 2007 16:52:36 GMT -5
I've read it before clear but it's still great!
I like how you explaind certain moments in time in this chapter! and mayumi is such a hero ^^
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Jenny Lee
Ba Sing Se Azula
Icon by me, sig by Catalyst
Posts: 2,765
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Post by Jenny Lee on Mar 6, 2007 17:51:10 GMT -5
Sounds great so far! Azula and Iroh seemed very IC, and none of the OCs seem like Mary Sues. Great job!
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clearsunrise
Pupil Sokka
Waterbending Admiral of the Zutarian Army
Posts: 5,462
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Post by clearsunrise on Mar 7, 2007 13:02:56 GMT -5
Thanks guys^_^. Thanks for the karma, Power, and yeah I loved writing Mayumi's character a lot, Ignite. And I'm glad you like the OCs, Jenny Lee. I'm always worried about that. I'm glad I could keep the characters IC too. I tried hard on that one ;D . And since I'm in such a good mood, I've decided to give the second chapter earlier than i was intending to. So without getting too long-winded, here it is.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Live for Love Chapter 2 The Journey North
The refugees of Ba Sing Se slowly traveled north, hoping the mountains would hold a safe haven from the Fire nation.
Katara looked around sadly. Everyone around her seemed slouched in defeat. Not only had the people lost their homes, some had also lost family and friends, not knowing whether they were captured or dead.
Hearing a loud groan, Katara turned to her left. Patting a tired Appa, she looked up to the small girl in his saddle. The girl hadn’t spoken since they had been asked to protect her. Momo had taken an immediate liking to her and had curled into her lap in an effort to try and comfort her.
Looking in front of her, she saw Aang with his eyes cast down. She had thought he would be back to his old self with Appa being back with them, but he hadn’t had time to be cheerful. The ominous sound of disaster had cut any celebration short as they were forced to flee.
Hating to see her usually high-spirited friend upset, Katara decided to try speaking to him.
“Aang…”
Looking back, Aang slowly focused on her, “Oh…Hey, Katara.”
Sighing, she walked up to him, “Don’t worry, Aang. I’m sure we can still defeat the Fire Lord.”
“Yeah, Twinkle-Toes. I can’t recognize you if you drag your feet.” Toph smirked.
“And besides, I mean, with me to strategize, how could we possibly lose?” joked Sokka.
Letting a small grin pass over their faces at Sokka’s usual cockiness, they all felt a little better.
Looking around at the other people traveling with them though, Katara didn’t think a few inspirational words and wise cracks would lift their spirits. When they had helped Haru and his father, Tyro, Ba Sing Se had still stood. With it taken by the Fire Nation, she didn’t think anything short of a miracle would lift the Earth Kingdom’s spirits now. Maybe if the Earth King…
Movement, out of the corner of her eye, distracted Katara from her thoughts.
Noticing her detached look, Sokka asked, “ What’s wrong, Katara?”
Shaking her head, Katara turned towards them, “Nothing. What were you saying?”
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Smellerbee slid to the ground in exhaustion. It seemed as if they had been walking forever.
She groaned, “When are we gonna get there? Do these people even know where we’re going?”
Longshot took a seat beside her, as she looked around. Jet and Le—Zuko sat across from her. She didn’t understand why Jet let him travel with them. When she and Longshot had asked for his help to save Jet, they hadn’t known who he really was. She supposed Jet felt like he owed the Fire Prince.
Looking around her, she saw the people of Ba Sing Se. They all held a sadness in their eyes like they had lost all hope. Moving around with the weight of the world on their shoulders.
“So, are you going to tell us why you’re hiding from Katara?” she heard Jet ask the question that had been lingering in all their minds.
“….We’re not exactly on the best of terms,” Zuko said, as he glanced to the side.
Smellerbee could tell that he wasn’t telling them something. She had seen Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Toph and had been about to call out to them, when Zuko had pulled them all in another direction with an anxious look on his face. She had noticed Katara look in their direction as they hid.
“What do you mean by…” Jet began suspiciously.
Jet was cut off as the order to begin moving again came. The conversation seemingly forgotten, they joined the rest of the refugees in the long trek north.
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In the martial-lawed town, the late afternoon sun was the last signal before the curfew. Shoppers rushed around the bazaar trying to fit in last minute purchases. Stalls all along the main street were preparing to close, while still trying to make at least one last sale.
A young man walked slowly into town. His black hair pulled back, and his brown eyes scanning the stalls.
“You do realize that this place is occupied by the Fire Nation, right, Sunshine?”
Sighing, angrily, he said quietly, “Yes, Xia. You’ve only mentioned that five times in the last five minutes.”
“Just making sure. You can be a little slow sometimes, Sunshine.”
His eyes twitching, he said, “How many times do I have to tell you my name is Shai Ming?”
Hearing her laughter only made him more irritated. Deciding to ignore her, he stomped to the first vendor. The clerk seeing his angry face decided to let him take his time.
“Well you know how to make a good impression don’t ya, Sunshine?”
With his whole face twitching now, Shai Ming paid for their supplies then stormed down the street. Glancing around the once bustling bazaar, Shai Ming looked for anything else they would need. A small group of people caught his attention. A few of the Fire Nation soldiers who were on patrol telling them to break it up. He heard Xia’s sigh. As they traveled, they had seen many scenes such as that. They always seemed to sadden her. Deciding she’d be happier camping outside, he headed towards the exit of the town.
“Sunshine, don’t forget to take the bag off before nightfall.”
Already annoyed, he said rather loudly, “I know. You don’t have to remind me about everything!”
“Easy there. You’ll attract attention. You’re trying to hide from the Fire Nation, remember?”
Glancing around, he saw a few people staring. Embarrassed, he glanced down, his face red, and moved quicker through the town.
“Sunshine, one of the soldiers is watching you….”
Glancing back, Shai Ming saw that she was telling the truth. A look of recognition passed over the soldier’s face. Panicking, Shai Ming picked up his pace. Hearing the sound of fast footsteps, he broke out into a run.
“Oh this is a great way to show him you’re not guilty.”
Angry, he snapped, “And whose fault is it that he noticed me?”
“I didn’t tell you to lose your temper.”
Turning the corner, he shouted, “Would you just help me find some place to hide already!?”
Hearing her sigh, she said, “Hold on. I don’t know this town very well.”
“Oh that’s just perfect.”
Glancing back, he saw that two more joined the soldier. Looking around franticly, he searched for a place to hide until nightfall. Considering they didn’t know about her, it would be easier for her to leave.
“Ok. We’re close to a cliff face. Just try to lose them for a minute and hide there.”
“How is a cliff face supposed to help?” he said, exasperated.
“Would you trust me for once? There’s bound to be something that you can hide behind long enough for us to switch places.”
Ducking a fire blast, he decided to take her word for it. Now all he had to do was lose them.
“Well this’ll be easy…,” he said, sarcastically.
“Just don’t use firebending. The people here might be more willing to help if they don’t know you’re a firebender.”
Glancing back again, he saw that she was right. The townspeople moved away for him, but when the soldiers came through, they forced the soldiers to go around. Grinning, he glanced at the awnings above the stalls.
“That might actually work. It’ll put you ahead of them a bit more. Just go over the right side. It’s closer to where you want to go.”
Deciding not to argue with her this time, he found a few barrels that would make it easier to jump up. Not slowing down, he jumped onto the barrels, then the awning, and finally jumped over to the other side. Seeing this, the soldiers were forced to turn around as it was becoming increasingly harder for them to get through the people in the bazaar.
Shai Ming took advantage of their delay and searched for a place to hide. Looking forward, he noticed an old man motioning him over. He ran towards him. When he got there, he was directed to a niche in the cliff. Crawling into the cramped hole, he took deep breaths to calm his fast-beating heart.
“See? That wasn’t so hard now was it?”
“Easy for you to say. You weren’t being chased around town,” he said, between breathing.
“Well it is your own fault you know. I did warn you that this town wasn’t safe. Maybe next time you’ll actually listen to me.”
Turning around, he saw her. Her green eyes held laughter, and her brown hair was in its usual looped ponytail. Looking outside, he noticed that the day had slowly faded and had turned into dusk.
“So where are we heading after here, anyway?” she said, changing the subject.
“Well, the last we heard, he was headed toward Ba Sing Se, so I guess we should start there,” he said.
“Okay, I’ll head east at nightfall then,” she nodded, “Oh and don’t forget to take the bag off.”
Looking beside him, he noticed he still had it on. Lifting it over his head, he put it in front of him.
“There. Happy now?”
“Ecstatic,” she grinned.
Looking back outside, he saw that dusk was coming to an end.
“See ya in the morning, Sunshine,” she grinned.
“How many times do I have to tell you my name is Shai Ming?”
Laughing, she picked up the bag and crawled out of the little niche. Green eyes glancing around alert, she turned east. Shaking off the uneasiness, Xia headed toward Ba Sing Se.
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Post by lunauc on Mar 7, 2007 22:21:57 GMT -5
Well, you have my attention. Ever since a certain Zatoichi movie, I've always been entertained by the heroes saddled with a kif stories. Not to mention your OC's do seem interesting. I'll be reading.
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clearsunrise
Pupil Sokka
Waterbending Admiral of the Zutarian Army
Posts: 5,462
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Post by clearsunrise on Mar 9, 2007 16:17:08 GMT -5
Thanks, lunauc ;D . I'm still trying to figure out a shortened name for ya without calling you lun . I've seen a Zatoichi movie. I don't remember it very well though. Thanks, I was nervous about the OCs ;D . Now I'll give ya chapter 3. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Live for Love Chapter 3 Lost Friends Azula looked on as her elderly uncle was shackled in a hidden, cold prison. Ty Lee grimaced at Azula’s pleased smirk. Her amusement had become even more disturbing after Iroh was brought back from Lake Laogai. Turning to the silent Mai, she whispered, “What happened at Lake Laogai to make Azula act more creepy?” Half-listening, Mai shrugged and looked away uncomfortably. Slowly, and with the little patience she had left, Azula asked, “So, Uncle, one last time. Where is Zuzu?” Bleary-eyed and confused, Iroh turned towards her and responded, “Do you have any tea?” Eyes twitching, Azula turned towards Mai and Ty Lee. Irritated, she ordered, “Mai, watch the prisoner. Ty Lee, come with me.” Stomping towards the exit, Azula barked to a nearby guard, “Get him some tea.” Nervous, the guard responded, “Yes, Ma’am.” The guard’s eyes followed as Ty Lee bounced along beside Azula. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed sparks shooting from Azula’s feet with every step. Sighing, Mai leaned against Iroh’s cell. “Yay….more guard duty,” she said with dull sarcasm. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Wind blowing through his hair, Teo glided through the air. The goggles he always wore made it easier for him to see. Since the Avatar had left and his father no longer helped the Fire Nation, the people of the Northern Air Temple sent scouts out to watch out for any new trouble that might head their way. They knew it was only a matter of time before the Fire Lord would order another attack on the temple, considering he didn’t take defeat lightly. After scouting all afternoon, Teo had seen no sign of danger so far. He was about to turn back and end his shift, when he noticed a rather large group of people below him. They seemed to be moving north towards the temple. Knowing he would have to see who it was, he glided lower. As he went closer to the ground he noticed a rather large, furry animal. Realizing who it was, Teo grinned happily as he flew the rest of the way to the ground, landing right in front of the flying bison. Appa, being startled, reared, awakening the silent child on his back. His companions, not knowing who or what had caused the bison to react this way, prepared to attack. Looking for the source of the disturbance, they found it in the form of the still-grinning Teo. “Teo!” Katara shouted, as she ran to hug the boy. “Hey, Katara,” Teo said, returning the hug, “Who are all these people? And why are you guys so far north?” The group looked at each other sadly. Toph, not knowing what was happening, said, “Guys, mind explaining what’s going on? Who is that guy…And why do his legs feel like wheels?” “Oh, sorry Toph,” Aang said, “This is our friend, Teo. Teo, this is Toph.” The refugees slowly gathered around as the group explained the situation to their friend. “I see,” said Teo, “well, I guess I’ll help you guys lead them to the temple until we figure out what we can do.” “Are you sure you’ll have room for everyone?” questioned Katara. “We’ll figure it out. Don’t worry.” Reaching an agreement, the refugees finally had an answer to their destination. Feeling a little better now that they knew where they were going, a few even had small grins on their weary faces. Soon they would be able to rest. Maybe, at least for a little while, they could find a place out of the Fire Nation’s reach. “Let’s rest for a bit before we head up there.” After that was said, the refugees slowly began to set up camp for the night. They were all exhausted from the long, hard journey and were glad to be able to sit while they waited for the new guide and the Avatar to decide what to do next. Seeing that everyone was pretty much settled, Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Toph set up camp while Teo waited patiently as Momo and the little girl climbed off Appa’s back. Seeing the girl awake and confused, Katara walked over to her. “Did you have a nice nap?” she asked, as she patted the child’s head, smiling, “why don’t you wait next to Teo while we finish setting up, okay?” The girl nodded, and with Momo on her shoulder, she walked over to the boy. “Hi,” Teo said, “ what’s your name?” The girl just looked at him. Teo turned towards the four she traveled with. “She hasn’t said a word since we left Ba Sing Se,” Katara answered his unspoken question. “So you don’t even know her name then?” “No,” Katara responded, “we’ve tried a few times, but we haven’t been able to get her to talk yet. She needs some time to deal with a few things, I guess.” “Oh…okay then,” Teo looked back to the girl sadly. Seeing that his attention had returned to her, the girl looked at him and smiled. Seeing her smile, he couldn’t help but return it. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Smellerbee and Longshot were setting up their own part of the camp as Jet and Zuko tried to figure out if they should keep following this group north or if they should go their own way. Their discussion had gotten rather heated. “I have to go back to Ba Sing Se,” Zuko said, for what seemed like the hundredth time to Smellerbee, “Uncle isn’t with this group. I have to find him.” “Oh and how do you suppose you get into the city, huh?” Jet responded, “Do you think they’ll let you in if you just walk up to the gates? We need to think of a plan first.” “I’ll think of a plan when I get there,” Zuko argued back. “Beautiful idea,” Jet said, “if you wanna get us executed.” “You don’t have to follow me.” “What happened to the “must follow the Avatar” plan you had.” “Uncle is more important,” Zuko said, loudly. “Umm…guys.” “So you’d rather end up in a prison right next to him then, huh?” “Guys…” “He might not be in one…” “GUYS!” Turning to the shouting Smellerbee, they shouted, “What!?” “I don’t think hiding is an option anymore,” Smellerbee said, as she pointed towards the spectators, four of which happened to be the ones they were hiding from. “Oh…”
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clearsunrise
Pupil Sokka
Waterbending Admiral of the Zutarian Army
Posts: 5,462
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Post by clearsunrise on Mar 21, 2007 0:37:34 GMT -5
Ok I suppose I've made you guys wait long enough. Here's chapter 4. Hope you like it(If you do or don't, can you please tell me^_^;; . ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Live for Love Chapter 4 Sugar Queen, Angry Boy, and Twinkle-Toes ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Toph had been discussing the best way to the Air Temple, when they were distracted by a commotion towards the back of their traveling group. It had been drawing the attention of most of the refugees from their places in camp. Looking at each other, they made a silent agreement to go investigate. A fight between anyone in the group might hurt the morale of all. They didn’t have the time to fight amongst themselves. Getting closer to the argument, they caught some of what was being said. “Uncle is more important.” “Why does that voice sound familiar?” Sokka said, as they got closer, “and why do I get a bad feeling about this?” “Umm…guys.” “So you’d rather end up in a prison right next to him then, huh?” “Isn’t that…,” Katara began, recognizing the other voice. “Guys…” “He might not be in one…” “Oh no,” said Aang, voice filled with dread. “GUYS!” Turning to the shouting Smellerbee, they shouted, “What!?” “I don’t think hiding is an option anymore,” Smellerbee said, as she pointed towards the spectators. “Oh…” “Jet?” Katara asked, surprised to see him, “You’re okay?” “Hey, Katara,” Jet said, nervously looking at his argument buddy. Looking towards the person standing beside Jet, Katara moved through the waterwhip stances as she pulled the plug from her pouch. Zuko, being caught off guard, was knocked back by the flying water. Jet, seeing that the others were about to join in, stood in the way. “Katara, can you wait to waterwhip him into oblivion till after I pay him back?” Jet asked. “Why should I?” Katara shouted, angrily. Zuko, standing slowly, prepared himself for the fight he was sure was coming. Still disoriented, he wasn’t prepared for the gust of wind that knocked him off his feet…again. Growing impatient, he stood again and prepared a fire attack. Curious by all the noise, the silent girl, with Momo in tow, wandered over to the group. Not wanting to see anymore fighting, she ran to stand in the way. Seeing her at the last moment, the group and Zuko stopped their attacks just in time. Seeing all the confused faces, the girl walked up to Katara and placed her small hand on the waterbender’s hand, making a silent plea for Katara not to fight. Seeing this, Katara hesitated for a moment, then slowly bended her water back into it’s container. Seeing this, or feeling it in Toph’s cause, Aang, Sokka, and Toph paused and then followed Katara’s example. Zuko, understanding that they wouldn’t be attacking him anymore, cautiously fell out of his fighting stance. The girl, looking around, saw that they wouldn’t be fighting, at least for now, smiled. Turning, she cautiously began to walk towards Zuko with Momo on her shoulder. Nervously, the group looked on. Reaching him, she looked up at him as if she was trying to decide something, as Zuko looked down at her, more confused then ever. Slowly, the girl let a smile grace her face. Seeing the girl’s innocent smile, Zuko slowly relaxed as his face softened. “Well then, now that everyone’s calmed down,” Jet began, “maybe we can try talking before killing each other this time.” ------------------------------------------------------- “So…after we got separated at Lake Laogai…Mister Angry Boy here helped you out?” Toph asked. Eyes flashing in anger at the nickname, Zuko turned away annoyed. “Yeah. And now I’m traveling with him till I can pay him back,” Jet said, “And then I’ll kick his sorry firebending…” “Hey, no bad language in front of the little girl,” Katara cut in. “The little girl?” Jet asked confused, “Doesn’t she have a name?” “She hasn’t said a word since Ba Sing Se,” said Teo, helpfully. Turning towards him, Jet asked, “And who are you again?” Sighing, Aang began the introductions again. After he was finished, he turned to Zuko. Katara asked Teo, Smellerbee, and Longshot to take the little girl by Appa, so she could play. “So…you’re heading back to Ba Sing Se to look for your uncle?” “Yes,” answered Zuko. Seeing the Avatar right in front of him and not trying to capture the boy was starting to irritate the young banished prince. “Oh that’s a great idea,” said Sokka, satirically, “What do you plan on doing, huh? Walking up to the gate and saying “Oh hi, Mister Gatekeeper. I seemed to have misplaced my uncle. Do you think you can help me find him?"” Zuko turned towards him, even more annoyed, as Sokka snorted, “Yeah that’ll go over really well. With any luck, you’ll wind up right next to him.” “Oh and I suppose your instincts could help, right, Sokka?” Katara rolled her eyes. “Yeah they…” Sokka narrowed his eyes, “ You’re making fun of me aren’t you?” “Gee, you’re quick, Sokka,” Toph said. Zuko hid his grin, as Toph and Katara giggled at Sokka’s expense. They giggled more when Sokka began pouting. “So,” Aang began, the rest turning towards him, “I have an idea, but you guys may not like it.” “What is it, Aang?” Katara asked. Aang grinned at having Katara’s full attention as he continued, “Okay, since Zuko is heading to Ba Sing Se to help his uncle, and since we were considering going back to help more people get away,…” Sokka cut in, “Oh no…we are not going to trust Prince Angry Boy not to turn us in as soon as we get there. Are you trying to get yourself killed?” Zuko turned his angry eyes to Sokka, as Aang tried to continue. “Sokka, we need all the help we can get, and he already knows where we’re heading,” Aang tried to reason, “Wouldn’t it be a better idea to have him with us, so we can keep an eye on him?” Finally having enough, Zuko shouted, “I don’t need your help, Avatar.” “Hey, don’t shout at him!” Katara yelled, jumping to her feet. “Oh shut up, water girl,” Zuko shot back, “who asked you anyway?” Feeling Katara’s anger, Toph commanded, “Yo, Sugar Queen, Angry Boy, pipe down. Twinkle-Toes has a point. The only way to get into the city is by working together.” “Did I hear you say you needed a way into Ba Sing Se?” The group turned towards the unknown voice. Walking towards them was a tall man wearing glasses followed closer by a rather large bear. “I know a way in.” he continued as he made it to them.
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Post by night on Mar 21, 2007 9:00:19 GMT -5
Wow, CS, your story is <3
*karma!*
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Post by Empy on Mar 21, 2007 9:58:24 GMT -5
I love reading your story everytime CS, Good job!
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clearsunrise
Pupil Sokka
Waterbending Admiral of the Zutarian Army
Posts: 5,462
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Post by clearsunrise on Mar 21, 2007 13:04:19 GMT -5
Thanks, nighteh and Empy . And thanks again for helping me with Mai's character, Empy. I'm trying to catch you all up to the other place it's posted. It's on chapter 8 there, and chapter 9 needs betaing then it'll be ready. Anyway, so I can catch you guys up a bit quicker, here's chapter 5. I'm really proud of this chapter, so I hope you guys enjoy it. ---------------------------------------------------------- Live for Love Chapter 5 A Troubled Soul ---------------------------------------- He had failed them. There was no hiding from it. His job was to protect them, and he had let the enemy pass through the walls. He may not have torn them down himself, but he had let the walls fall by putting his trust in the wrong people. He had let himself be manipulated and used while being naive to the treacherous plot of those he put his faith in. He did not deserve the title “Earth King”. A king would not have let this happen to his people. He looked around at the weary faces around him while he sat with his back against his bear, Bosco. ‘How could I have let this happen?’ he berated himself. He couldn’t even protect his family. He could only pray to the spirits that they were able to escape. He had not known such a harsh war waged outside of his city. ‘It’s not my city anymore,’ he thought, sadly. Ba Sing Se belonged to the Fire Nation. There was nothing he could do to change it. His people were losing hope. Had probably lost faith in their leader. He couldn’t see how anything could help him gain their trust back. A trust he felt he didn’t deserve. He was a coward, hiding who he was. He couldn’t tell them. The people would only look at him in anger. He couldn’t handle the guilt of them blaming him. No, he would stay in the shadows. He wasn’t good enough for them. Looking again at his people, he saw their despair. He wished he knew a way he could help them. A commotion, or rather a shouting match, broke him away from his thoughts. Sighing, he felt even worse. They were fighting amongst themselves now. He saw as the small group leading the refugees ran to break up the argument. He turned away only to be startled from his thoughts again as a girl in blue shot water at one of the arguing duo. They continued fighting until a small child stood in the way of their attacks. Curious, he continued watching as the girl calmed the people down. ‘How can one small girl end a fight, and I can’t even defend my people from invasion?’ he thought, falling deeper into despair. “There must be something I can do,” he whispered. If a child could put herself in harm’s way like that, then maybe he could find the courage to make right all the wrongs he had allowed to be committed. “If I only knew what to do.” Being close enough, he barely overheard a conversation that told him what he could do. The small group from before was trying to make plans to go back into the city. They planned to rescue as many more people as they could. With new determination, he stood to go to the teens. As he walked over, with Bosco trailing along beside him, his thoughts were only of one thing. ‘I will not fail them again.’“Did I hear you say you needed a way into Ba Sing Se?” he asked, “ I know a way in.” The group turned towards him with confused and surprised looks on their faces. “Who are you?” asked the small boy with arrows on his head and hands. Pausing, he said, “My name…is Kuei.”
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clearsunrise
Pupil Sokka
Waterbending Admiral of the Zutarian Army
Posts: 5,462
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Post by clearsunrise on Mar 23, 2007 11:51:01 GMT -5
Ok here's chapter 6. Hope you like it. If you have any tips on how to improve on anything, feel free to tell me. If no one does I might just think I write perfectly and don't need to improve on anything (which I know isn't true ) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Live for Love Chapter 6 An Uneasy Truce ------------------------------------------------------ Zuko looked at the man calling himself Kuei. “How do we know we can trust you?” he asked, his eyes narrowed in anything but trust. The water girl turned to him, still angry, “Well, it’s not like we can trust you completely.” Before he could snap back, the Avatar cut in, “What’s this way into the city?” The man looked at the Avatar, as he said, “It’s an underground escape route the royal family uses in times of crisis.” The blind girl asked, “Then, how do you know about it?” The man responded, “I was friends with the Earth King.” The girl looked suspicious for a moment before she relaxed. “Can we trust him, Toph?” the water girl questioned. “…Maybe, but we might want to be careful,” the blind girl said, “He’s lying about something but not about wanting to help us.” “Oh, that’s comforting,” the annoying peasant in blue said with heavy sarcasm, “Now, we have two people we don’t trust knowing where we’re going.” The boy continued as his companions sighed. “Why don’t we just go turn ourselves into the Fire Lord and his crazy daughter now to spare us the trouble of getting captured?” Zuko flinched, slightly, at the mention of his family. He knew if he went back into Ba Sing Se, even by himself, to save his uncle, he would be considered even more a traitor. There was no telling what Azula would do to the people still left in the city. Maybe it would be better, if only for his conscience, to help them. Tuning back into the conversation, he heard Jet say, “Sokka, do you always have to give your opinion with sarcasm.” Before her brother could respond, the waterbender stepped in, obviously seeing another argument coming. “Jet, Sokka, that’s enough. The refugees don’t need to see the people guiding them arguing,” she reasoned, “It’ll only make them feel worse.” “But…” Seeing his sister’s glare, the boy turned away, pouting. “I think we should trust him,” the Avatar piped up. “You think we should trust everyone, Twinkle-Toes.” Offended, the Avatar continued, “If it gets us into the city, why not?” “Ever hear of a trap, Aang,” Jet rolled his eyes. “Look, either you trust me or you don’t,” the tall man said, losing patience, “but the fact is that I’m the only one who knows a way into the city that isn’t guarded. Looking at each other, the Avatar and his companions seemed to realize this was true. The water girl, who seemed to be their unofficial spokeswoman, said, “Okay. We’ll trust you.” Zuko watched her face turn threatening and overprotective. “But if you put anyone in danger, you better have extremely strong bars in your prison,” she warned, “because if I get out, you won’t be able to get far enough away.” The tall man nodded in understanding. The water girl turned to Zuko and Jet. “And that goes for you as well.” Zuko narrowed his eyes. He would have to learn not to do that before his face was stuck that way. “Who said I was going with you?” “Do you have a better plan?” she mocked, “ Besides, what’s more important to you, your uncle or your pride?" Like a slap in the face, Zuko realized there was only one true answer to that. “Fine,” he growled. And so an uneasy truce was formed.
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Post by Empy on Mar 23, 2007 13:01:18 GMT -5
I like it, the only thing I think might need some work is that you're a little heavy on dailogue, it could use some more description from time to time. Other than that, it's great!
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clearsunrise
Pupil Sokka
Waterbending Admiral of the Zutarian Army
Posts: 5,462
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Post by clearsunrise on Mar 24, 2007 9:41:10 GMT -5
Thanks Empy . Yeah description is definitely my weak spot. I'm not sure if I'm getting better or worse, but I think I did ok with descriptions on chapter 10. Ok let's see...we're on chapter 7 now. Hope you guys like it. ------------------------------------ Live for Love Chapter 7 Into the Lion’s Den ----------------------------------------------------------- The return trip seemed to go much quicker due to the option of flying. After more discussion and even more “Sokkaisms” later, a decision had been reached. Teo, Smellerbee, and Longshot would lead the people to the temple, while the rest would make their way back to Ba Sing Se. Once they reached Ba Sing Se, they would split into three groups. Kuei and the little girl would stay outside, safely hidden, along with Bosco and Appa. Aang, Toph, and Sokka would lead the people out, and Jet, Katara, and Zuko would find Iroh. This plan was met with a very angry Sokka. “How could you possibly think it’d be a good idea for my baby sister to go with them!?” Sokka shouted. Aang sighed, “Sokka, someone has to go with them, so we can keep an eye on them.” Zuko huffed and turned his head away. Glancing over as he continued, “It can’t be you or the guards will find you in about five seconds because of all the shouting…” Proceeding to shout, Sokka said, “No they won’t!” “Yeah, Snoozles, they will,” Toph said, matter-of-factly. Turning to her annoyed, he barked, “Whose side are you on?” “Whichever side gets us in and out of that cage of a city as quickly as possible.” “Toph can’t go with them because she’s going to have to help me blow a hole in the wall, and I can’t go for obvious reasons,” Aang finished. “Besides, Sokka, I can take care of myself,” Katara put in, indignantly. After they were finally able to come to a decision, the two groups said their good-byes and headed out on their missions, one to the temple and the other to the city. Now, Katara looked down into the dark tunnel, as Aang sent Momo with the message to the captive citizens on the time and place that they would be able to leave the city. Taking in the rough rock walls, obviously formed from earthbending, Katara noticed unlit torches along the walls. Looking as far as she could, she saw the tunnel split into at least four separate paths. Without Kuei there, it was painfully obvious that they would’ve gotten lost in no time. Her group would take the left most path into the dungeons, while Aang’s group would take the path on the right to bring them into the Lower Ring. “Hopefully, Momo won’t give the note to a random soldier,” Sokka said. He had been pouting the whole way back. She smiled when she thought of how Sokka looked out for her. If only he would lighten up a bit. She watched as Momo scurried up a tree and jumped on top of the wall. She hoped the little guy would be safe. They had left Appa with Kuei and the girl far enough back where they wouldn’t be spotted. “Okay. Everyone ready?” With a nod from everyone, the group made their way into the tunnel. Zuko picked two torches off the wall. Lighting one, he passed it to Aang, then lighting the other kept it for himself. “Okay. Everyone remember the plan?” Sokka asked. Seeing a response from everyone, eye roll or nod, Sokka continued, “Okay. Then, let’s get this over with.” Turning to Zuko and Jet, he finished, “Don’t let anything happen to my sister.” Sighing, Katara said, “Don’t worry, Sokka. I’ll be fine,” as she hugged him. “Alright enough with the mushiness. Let’s get going,” Toph said impatiently. The group went their separate ways. Katara looked at her companions. Shaking her head, she wondered how she could be stuck with these two. Noticing this, Jet turned his head towards her, “What’s wrong, Katara?” “Nothing. Let’s just get this over with.” As they walked silently through the tunnel, Katara noticed how Zuko kept his distance from her and Jet. She guessed he trusted them about as much as she trusted him. After they had been walking for what seemed like forever, Katara was about to suggest a break, when the torch’s light illuminated the far wall. There she saw a worn, rusty door. She just hoped it opened without too much noise. “Well, that took long enough,” Zuko muttered under his breath sarcastically. Reaching the door, they looked nervously at it. It looked even rustier up close. “This is going to make a lot of noise, isn’t it?” Jet said, straight-faced. Rolling her eyes, Katara said, “You’ve been hanging around Sokka too much. You’re starting to state the obvious.” “Just help me with this door,” Zuko cut in, irritated. Biting her tongue to keep from snapping at him, Katara began to help Zuko try to open the door as Jet followed. With them all pulling they were able to nudge the door out of its frame. Sadly, as they pulled, the door let out a loud screech that hurt their ears. Wanting to end the noise as quickly as possible, they kept pulling, hoping no one would hear them. Getting it open just enough to fit through, they went through the door. “Well, that could’ve gone better.” “Now, who’s stating the obvious?” “Would you two be quiet?” Zuko hissed, “And the Avatar said that annoying water tribe boy would alert the guards.” The last part was mumbled, but Katara heard it and narrowed her eyes. When they got out of here, she decided she’d waterwhip him a few more times. “This would be easier if we knew where your uncle was,” Jet whispered. They proceeded to search the dungeons. Not finding anything in the nearest cells, they continued deeper. As they searched, they heard the sound of feet moving toward them. “Why would I want to guard that tea-loving old man?” a female voice asked, sounding bored. Zuko’s eyes widened. Hearing this, all three prepared to surprise the newcomer. As the girl turned the corner, her eyes fell on Zuko. Eyes widening, she was shocked long enough for Jet to come up behind her and knock her weapons away. Feeling the hooked swords poised to kill, Mai froze. “What were you saying about a “tea-loving old man”?” -------------------------------------------------------------- Aang, Sokka, and Toph had made it through their tunnel. The door leading to a fountain. “Where did that guy say we would come out at?” Sokka asked. Feeling the ground, Toph pointed northwest, “We need to go that way.” As they made their way through the city, dodging the occasional guard, Aang couldn’t help but worry about Katara. He hoped she was okay. “Twinkle-Toes, calm down. You’re throwing me off,” Toph whispered gruffly, but continued with a hint of understanding, “Don’t worry. Sweetness can take care of herself.” Aang turned to her gratefully, “Thanks, Toph.” They continued on their way to their position. ------------------------------------------------------- Katara looked on as Mai refused to say a word. “Tell me where my uncle is,” Zuko demanded. Mai turned away, but Katara noticed a slight blush on the girl’s cheeks. Before Zuko was able to “ask” for directions again, he felt the heat of a powerful fireball. Turning, he barely managed to halt its progress. Katara noticed Mai’s eyes narrow slightly for a second before her face returned to its usual stoic expression. Turning to see whom would shoot fire with an ally in harm’s way, Katara’s eyes fell on someone she definitely did not want to see. “Well, I’ve been wondering when you would show up, Zuzu.” Azula smirked
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clearsunrise
Pupil Sokka
Waterbending Admiral of the Zutarian Army
Posts: 5,462
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Post by clearsunrise on Mar 25, 2007 12:04:53 GMT -5
Ok here's chapter 8. One more and I'll be all caught up here. I'm trying to post chapter 10 at both places at the same time. Anyway some of my first action scenes are in this chapter. I'm not sure how well I did, so please tell me how I did. And if you know any ways to do better with those please tell me . Thanks for reading. Live for Love Chapter 8 The Rescue ----------------------- Jet held Mai firmly as she struggled slightly to get away. Katara snorted, “Zuzu?” Zuko shot her a glare out of the corner of his eye, which only resulted in more giggles. Ignoring her, Azula said, “Strange company you’re keeping these days, brother.” Looking towards Katara, “a Water Tribe hyena girl” and to Jet, “and an Earth Kingdom brat that eats hay.” Seeing their annoyance, Azula grinned, “Did I hurt your feelings?” “Where’s Uncle, Azula?” Zuko asked, angrily. “Now, why would I tell you that?” Signaling with her hand, Azula called her guards and Ty Lee out of hiding. They were surrounded. Backing up, Jet, Katara, and Zuko were back-to-back with Mai still held hostage by Jet. As Azula was about to give an order, a guard came charging down the stairs. Annoyed by the disturbance, Azula turned to glare at said guard. “What?” she snapped. “Forgive me, Your Highness, but there’s a disturbance in the streets.” Eyes sparking, Azula asked, “What kind of disturbance?” “It’s the people, Highness,” continued the now very nervous guard, “Someone has blown a hole in the wall. They’re escaping.” While Azula was distracted, Zuko and Katara looked at each other, silently forming a plan. When she gave up all of her attention, Katara brought out some of her water as Zuko shot his fire. The two elements collided creating a steamy mist. Using it as a cover, Zuko, Katara, and Jet with Mai in tow ran into one of the many halls of the dungeon. As the mist cleared, Azula noticed their absence, and her temper flared. Pointing to some of the guards, she said, “You find them. The rest of you, follow me.” She would have to handle this disturbance personally. ---------------------------------- Leaning against a wall to catch their breath, they tried to figure out where they were. “Which way do we go?” Zuko turned to Mai. Glancing away, Mai motioned to the right. Unwillingly, she continued to lead them. If only she hadn’t been distracted by seeing Zuko again. Finally, Mai pointed towards a cell with her bored expression appearing on her face. Zuko went to the door and looked inside. “Uncle,” he whispered, then turned to Mai, “Where are the keys?” Mai, still without a sound, pointed as best she could while still being held captive toward a table against the right wall. Zuko went and got them, opening the door as quickly as he could. Seeing his uncle with a weak, tired expression, he turned towards Katara. “Help me carry him…please.” Shocked by hearing that word come from the Fire Prince, she nodded. Each putting one of Iroh’s arms around their shoulders, they helped the Dragon of the West to walk. “Which way do we go from here?” Jet asked. “Kuei said that the dungeons circle around, so the quickest way would be that way,” Katara pointed in the direction they had been going. “Let’s get out of here before any guards catch up.” Slightly slower, they made their way back towards the tunnel. -------------------------------- Sokka, Toph, and Aang watched in amazement at the amount of people who had gotten the message. They had blown a hole in the wall right before the hordes of people started coming. Scared by the crowd, Momo, after finding Aang, hid on the Avatar’s shoulders. Sokka began his part of the plan and lead the people to safety. Toph and Aang would wait and cover their backs. Soldiers had begun to notice the people leaving and sent word to Azula, as the rest tried to stop them. Toph and Aang continuously used earthbending to slow the soldiers, so they wouldn’t have a chance to use their own bending. Things continued like that until lightening flashed through the air. The fleeing people ducked and began to panic. Seeing this, the two earthbenders stood in between Azula and them. “So, not only is he friends with them, he’s also working with the Avatar,” Azula said, voice filled with disdain. Toph and Aang continued to defend until all the people had escaped, then they shot boulders, and in Aang’s case air, at the advancing soldiers. Backing up slowly, they finally made it through the wall, sealing it behind them. --------------------------- Kuei was leaning against his bear as the girl played with Appa. Appa showed amazing patience, something rare for the furry bison. They had been waiting for hours it seemed. He hadn’t known it would take this long. Hearing a noise, Kuei and the girl turned and looked towards it. Squinting their eyes, they made out a large group of people. The little girl smiled. Katara had said that they might be able to find her parents. Although, the person called Zuko said that she shouldn’t get her hopes up. The two seemed to argue a lot for some reason. Breaking from her thoughts, she ran towards the approaching group. The guy with the bear, seeing her take off, ran after her. It was a rather amusing sight for the girl. She made it close enough to the group to see faces but stood to the side. She looked eagerly from face to face, but as the large group kept going, her parents were nowhere in sight. For a moment she thought she saw them, but it turned out to be someone else. The girl’s face fell as the stragglers came by, and the people she had traveled with came up to her. She turned teary eyes to Katara. The older girl walked up to her and reached out for her. The small, crying child ran to her, needing some form of comfort. As she cried on Katara’s shoulder, she felt Momo crawl on her own shoulder, giving her a small, lemur-sized hug as well. “I told you not to get her hopes up,” Zuko said. Katara would have glared at him if she didn’t have the girl crying on her. Kuei panted as he reached the group. Glancing around them, he noticed two extra. Hadn’t they said they were only after that boy, Zuko’s, uncle? They seemed to be guarding the other one. “Who’s she?” Kuei asked, pointing to the stoic teen.
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