Avatar: Cycles of Life (Closed)

[Armphid]

Sheng smiled, feeling a little better. He was still going home. Which meant he'd be facing...all of it. But that had always been inevitable. Sifu said that you had to take things head-on, though she did admit that she tried running from her problems for a time. In the end, you just had to deal with it. Looks like this was his 'in the end.' "Probably a good idea. I don't really know how fast Appa goes, but we've got a lot of distance to cover. And getting those hawks out will let us hopefully get responses sooner."

After a few minutes of finishing to tidy up camp, and Sheng 'dropping' the earth tent, the quartet went on their way back through the village, heading toward the temple. It seemed that word of who the girls were had reached town though. Unlike yesterday when they'd just walked through, people now bowed as they passed.

Sheng sighed. It was like a little part of Ba Sing Se was here already. Great. Well, at least they weren't bowing to him. He nudged Fukiko, "So, what's it like being the daughter of the Avatar? I mean, is it like this everywhere you go?"

The little group wound through town and up the forest path that still showed the signs of yesterday's battle. Finally, they emerged near the temple. As they approached, Lao-Tien came out, his benificent face smiling. "I see that the decision has been made." He turned to one of the nearby monks, "Bring writing tools and ink." Then he looked back to the twins. "Our two messenger hawks are at your disposal, Avatar's daughters. Where shall they be sent?"

 

[HookerBoots]

The twins grinned at Lao-Tien. "One to the Southern Air Temple, and one to the North Pole," Fumiko said, taking one of the calligraphy brushes and dampening it with ink after the young monk had set the sets down on the table.

Fukiko grabbed the other, then glanced at her sister. "Which?"

"I'll do North Pole."

"Of course," the air bender replied, slightly amused. She had an idea why her twin didn't want to write to their parents, but didn't protest. They both bent to their work, writing quickly and efficiently. Fukiko tipped her head to the side when she was done, the tip of her tongue poking out as it always did when she was concentrating.

Nodding once, she looked at Fumiko, who set down her brush. They carefully traded parchments, and read. They both nodded, and each girl picked up the jar of sand, poured it over the damp ink, blotting it. They dumped the sand back in, and handed the letters to Lao-Tien.

"The top one," Fumiko said, "goes to our parents at the Southern Air Temple. The other one goes to the North Pole." She brushed a loose strand of hair off her forehead. "Thank you for your assistance, Lao-Tien."

He bowed, keeping the letters free from rumpling, and smiled. "It was my honor, daughters of the Avatar." A glimmer lit his eyes from within. "Will you be tackling our sea monster?"

"Yes, I think so." Fumiko stood up. "We should head to the beach. That way, we can leave right afterwards."

 

[Armphid]

"Finally." Sheng, who had been leaning against a stone statue of Kyoshi, tossed away a long grass stem he's been picking his teeth with. Maybe this was why he always ended up traveling on his own, never staying with a group or caravan for long. It took SO much longer to get started doing anything. "Let's go see this sea monster, and watch Fumiko conquer it. My feet have that traveling itch in them again."

Lao-Tien looked at the young man, then back to the twins. "Be careful, Avatar's Daughters, for I once was an impetuous young man myself, and I can guarantee you that such a person can bring as much trouble as me may help resolve."

"Thanks a lot," Sheng commented sourly as the old monk grinned impudently. "Any other advice?"

The holy man smiled then, "Yes. Young defenders of the Avatar's daughters, guard them well. I think that the whole world may turn on the outcome of this quest." His happy expression had become serious, "You will also both need to face what you have avoided soon. Be ready, because they will need you to be."

Sheng blinked. The guy could change modes in the blink of an eye! "Yeah. We'll do our best. On both of those counts."

Lao-Tien smiled, "Then there's little to fear. Now, get along young ones. The Unagi is not easily mastered, and you'll want all the daylight you can get for travel now."

********​

The beach was a wide and deep inlet, almost a lagoon. The water was deep and blue, waves softly lapping at the shore. It was quite serene, really. Sheng stood at the waterline, waves washing over his feet. He glanced over at Fumiko. "Are you sure there's a sea serpent here? It seems really...I don't know, tranquil."

 

[HookerBoots]

She grinned at him and stuck one hand into the surf. Her eyes closed, and she could feel the rhythm of the giant beast. "Yes. He's there." She lifted one hand and pointed off to the distance. The surface of the sea was calm, but the monster was there, Fumiko was sure. She flicked her hand dry and bound her hair up with a strip of cloth.

"Wish me luck. Not that I need it." She tugged her top over her head, then took off her leggings, revealing her deep blue bathing costume. Taking a deep breath, Fumiko stepped into the water, then dove.

Fukiko sighed and stood ready to catch her sister when she fell off the Unagi. It was rare that Fumiko was really impetuous, and she made an effort to be tolerant. They were very alike in ways besides physical, and Fukiko knew how important this was. So she waited.

Spirits, the water was cold! Fumiko swam towards the echoing beat of the Unagi's heart, praying she saw him before he saw her. And there he was. How convenient. Pausing for a moment, Fumiko gathered herself and used her bending to propel her towards the monster faster than she could swim. Before it could react, she was behind the head, her legs wrapping tight around the neck and her hands freezing into the mane.

The Unagi roared underwater, and thrashed. Before she could do more than hope it would surface soon - drowning would look very bad on her record as a waterbender - it sailed up and out of the water.

Fumiko was glad she had frozen her hands to the giant's hair, because she was temporarily blinded by the sun after they surfaced and would have lost her grip fo certain otherwise. The only problem was, of course, that she couldn't bend like this, so if she were flung loose, or he dove deep, she'd have to react very quickly.

The monster crested, and Fukiko gasped. Her sister was clinging to the giant back like a lemur, despite the Unagi's efforts. The girl really was crazy.

The Unagi dove, plunging into the water again, and Fumiko got a breath just in time. He came up again, and down again. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of thrashing and surfacing and resubmerging, the monster stopping, panting. Fumiko held on tight for a few more seconds, amazed that it had been that simple. He'd worn himself out, all she'd had to do was hold on. Unfreezing her hands carefully, she patted the giant eel's neck gently. "Good boy."

The Unagi huffed at her, and she laughed. Standing up, she quickly bent a pillar of water up to where she was standing and stepped on to it. As he felt her leave his back, the monster dove deep down into the sea, making sure she couldn't catch it again. Fumiko laughed again, and realized she might be a little giddy from the rush.

With a few gestures, she froze the water from there to the shore, and slid down it, landing neatly between her sister and Sheng. "Well, that was fun." Fumiko grinned and pushed all the water off her body into a sphere and cast it back into the sea. "Are we ready to go?"

 

[Ahren1]

The chestnut-haired wanderer eyed the Earth tent as both the Avatar daughters entered it, most likely to discuss where they'd ultimately head next. He had to wonder if it was too obvious that he was trying to avoid the Fire Nation, as Sheng seemed to wish to avoid Ba Sing Se. Nonetheless, there were many reasons why a person would want to avoid the Fire Nation these days, even with the war long over, so it was not as if they would immediately discern that it was his home. As they emerged and admitted to deciding to Ba Sing Se, Sai breathed a silent breath of relief. He decided to remain silent for the moment, in order not to bring any attention to himself, as he was still a bit worried that they would ask why he didn't wish to go. He'd have to deny that, and he honestly did not think he was the best liar, despite having to do it often.

Either way, the University was the logical choice in any case. They needed information, and there was not a good chance there would be any clues at the burnt down temple which Avatar Roku had previously resided in. Sheng had tried to deny his wanting to avoid the Earth Kingdom capital initially, but he had caved quickly after. Truth of the matter was they were likely both easy to read, and he wouldn't have been surprised if the girls had seen through his own distaste for his home nation. With a mental shrug, Sai proceeded to help pick up the camp, noticing the occasional passerby bowing to the daughters. It seemed he would be getting some attention by traveling with them. Hopefully, any admirers would ignore him, and not risk forcing him to reveal some of his past in some way. That was why he had been traveling alone, but there was no doubt that being with the Avatar's daughters would help all of them ultimately. Eventually, Lao-Tien had arrived in order to question where to send the hawks, and during this time had made a rather cryptic comment toward Sheng and Sai. It wasn't that surprising that the holy man could see through them easily as well, mentioning that they both would have to face what they were running from soon enough. Sai nodded. He was actually planning on that. Just not yet. Not now. The mission to find the new Avatar was more important right now.

After Lao-Tien had headed off to send the hawks on their way, it was time for Fumiko to test her skills against the giant serpent, the Unagi. Sai couldn't help but be slightly nervous at the idea, but he had confidence in Fumiko. In fact, a small part of him was relieved that it was not Fukiko tacking such a dangerous task. They arrived at the beach, which was eerily calm for housing such a creature. Fumiko assured them he was there, and proceeded to undress to her bathing suit and enter the water. Seeing her in such a way was now making the golden-eyed young man wish Fukiko was indeed the one doing this challenge, if only so he could see her in that sort of outfit. Nonetheless, he watched intently as she swam out, eventually catching onto the monster, eventually taking her down, causing a rather suspenseful few moments as the group watched Fumiko be completely submerged with the creature. Thankfully, it soon shot back out, with Fumiko still holding strong.

After finally calming the Unagi, and riding it until it was worn, Fumiko eventually returned to the beach, looking rather excited and not the least bit frightened from the event. Sai smiled lightly and nodded in response to her inquiry. "Excellent work. To be expected from such a skilled bender... Anyways, yes, let us head off. We need all the daylight we can get..."

 

[Armphid]

Sheng would have wished her luck, but the words stuck in his throat. Nor from fear of what she was doing, or concern for her well-being, but at the little bit of cloth she was wearing to do it in. Her bathing suit revealed a great deal of smooth, porcelain skin and well shaped flesh. He couldn't look away from her, though he knew he should. And when she took that deep breath before going into the water! Spirits, preserve him.

She was under for what felt like a long time, but eventually, the massive serpent burst from the ocean with a shrieking roar. Fumiko's small body was latched onto it, so tiny against it's bulk. She rode the beast as it plunged in and out of the water, slithering and sliding this way and that in an attempt to dislodge her. "Spirits," he whispered, aghast and fearful for actually the first time since she'd even suggested doing this. A few more diving, rolling loops, and the beast quieted, defeated. Sheng stared in shock, then smiled widely, "All right, Fumiko! Excellent! Wooo!" He cheered and clapped his hands as the radiant girl came back ashore.

At her question, he nodded. Look at her face, he told himself silently. Look at her face. "Yes, I a-, I mean, yeah, we are." Look at her...ohh, that wasn't her face.

He suddenly coughed and turned to the right, staring back up the beach. "That was really something, Fumiko. The way I hear the story, Avatar Aang didn't do so well the first time he tried it."

There was a bellow, Appa lumbering closer. The great bison's eyes rolled to his empty saddle and he grunted loudly. "I think that's our cue." Sheng looked back at the girls, Fumiko again effortlessly catching and holding his gaze. "We...uh...we...uh, right. Let's go then! It's a long way to Ba Sing Se, as the song goes." But the girls here were far prettier than any in the city.

 

[HookerBoots]

Fumiko grinned, tugging her leggings back up her legs. The water was off of her, but the chill remained, and she was grateful for the barrier of her clothes. "No, father didn't do as well. But then, he wasn't a waterbender when he tried it." She tugged the tunic over her head and glanced at her sister as she bent to pick up her pack. "Well, 'Kiko?"

Fukiko was staring at her twin. She'd been silent, eyes wide. Then she flung her arms around Fumiko's neck, hugging tightly. "Don't you ever, ever do anything like that again, you idiot!" She pushed Fumiko to arm's length. "I'm supposed to be the crazy one!" They hugged again, and Fukiko whispered, "But it was amazing."

They seperated, and Fumiko grinned again. "All right, let's go, Appa." The group clamored up into the wide saddle, and waved a farewell to the people who had gathered to see her make a fool of herself. "Yip yip, Appa!" The huge beast lifted from the ground, and Fumiko stifled a laugh at the way Sheng's hands gripped the rail on the saddle.

Fukiko scrambled like a squirrel up to the bison's head. "Ba Sing Se, Appa." The monstrous animal grunted, a little disheartened - bad memories from that city - but he strafed and headed for the center of the Earth Kingdom. She made her way back and sat down next to Sai. "I hope you're not afraid of heights."

 

[Ahren1]

Sai had eyed Sheng for a moment, noting his less-than-subtle reaction to Fumiko's performance and her.. appearance. Well, it was to be expected. After all, they seemed to have some sort of relationship, and she was beautiful, especially with the addition of the water. Watching the sisters bond afterward was another bittersweet feeling. Yet again, a scene of siblings who cared about each other, something of which he would probably never experience. He had to wonder what his life would have been like.. had his brother not been just as heartless as his father.

It was pointless to dwell on now, though. They had to be off, and it was a long journey ahead. Nevertheless, Sai was actually a bit interested in moving on, particularly because it would be his first time riding a flying bison. As he boarded the large beast, he looked down. The view from the saddle made everything seem quite high up, and they had not even left the ground yet. Still, it was more exciting than frightening. The auburn haired painter had to admit to himself that being excited was actually a nice feeling. Actually feeling things at all was nice. Speaking of feeling things, the wind through his hair came next as Appa finally took off. That was pleasant as well. With a light smile, Sai now realized that perhaps this journey would be better for him than he thought. He could let feelings come to him, without fear of needing the warrior instinct all of the time. Without fear of the reactions of his father.

Of course, this also meant the re-emerging feelings of fondness for another, which he suddenly was reminded of as Fukiko chose to sit next to him. Turning to her, he smiled lightly at her words and shook his head. "Oh, no, I'm quite all right. This is actually quite thrilling. I never expected to ride a flying bison, let alone the legendary Appa. I'm honored.. The view is quite spectacular as well." Despite saying this, Sai's golden eyes never left Fukiko. After all, she was the true pleasure on the eyes.

 

[Armphid]

Sheng rolled his eyes, then smirked at Sai, "You old smoothie." Of course, he was partly just jealous that Sai'd gotten to bust the line out before he did. His hands still clutched the saddle, but not as firmly as they had on the way here. He hated not feeling anything under his feet...or even in the nearby proximity. Losing that sense was like a normal person suddenly losing hearing. There was so much information that was just suddenly gone.

But...he did have to admit that Sai was right. His eyes lingered on Fukiko for a second, then shifted to her sister. It was one spectacular view. Taking a steadying breath, he winced and let go of the rail of the saddle. He waited a few moments before moving, just to be sure he wouldn't be pulled away into space, then crawled toward the head of the beast where Fumiko sat holding the reins. "Okay, it's okay, you won't get thrown into the void," he muttered under his breath.

Putting on what he hoped was a confident smile, he then lounged against the saddle side near the stunning young Waterbender. "You're a pretty amazing girl, Fumiko. You know, if we have time, we should stop near Omashu. I bet badger-moles would be a little rougher ride that the Unagi, but I'm sure you could pull it off."

He dared to look down, regretting it almost immediately as his head swam. "Unngh," he looked back at Fumiko, his eyes closed as he recentered himself. "I don't know how fast Appa flies, but it's a six month walk from Ba Sing Se to Kyoshi Island, if the roads are clear and in good repair. We're going to have to think about where we want to stop to camp and re-supply."

 

[HookerBoots]

Fukiko blushed lightly as Sai's comment. "It certainly is lovely," she said, her eyes flicking back and forth from his face to her hands in her lap. He was so sweet, and even though she was used to being told she was pretty - both of them were, but it was usually from their sisters. "This is my second-favorite way to travel," she added. "Although unless it's a short distance, using the glider isn't very smart."

She smiled and scooted slightly closer to him. "Flying is a great way to travel. I'm glad you're enjoying it." Her hands were busy making little gusts, giving Appa small updrafts when she could gather them - it wouldn't be for the whole trip, but this was something to do with her hands. "So, I know you won't tell me about whatever your secret is, but I'd like to know more about you."

From the corner of her eye, Fumiko saw her sister scoot closer to Sai, and grinned at Sheng. "Looks like they're making friends," she whispered. Then she brought her voice back to it's normal volume. "I was thinking we'd stop somewhere on the other side of the Great Divide. It's far enough to count as a full day's travel, but not so far that it'll tire Appa out too much."

Her head tipped to one side as she moved the reigns slightly. "Unless you've got a better idea. I'm sure you know the terrain better than any of us."

 

[Armphid]

Sheng just stared at the dark haired Water Bender. Was she? "Are...you're kidding me, right?" He looked out over the edge, down at the sea passing below them. It didn't look like they were going that fast but-

"Fumiko," his voice was slow, and awestruck, "Are we-can he...we're going to reach the Great Divide...today? Without...I mean, not even a full day's travel?" If it was true, he just...it was mind blowing. From Kyoshi Island to the Great Divide was two weeks of overland travel, if all went well weather wise.

He knew he was NOT looking cool at all. He had to try and recover. "Uh, yeah. Yeah. If we get to the Divide, we should camp on either side. Trying to do so inside the canyon is not a good idea." He'd spent a month in there, lost and wandering. It had not been anything remotely resembling a good time. He'd nearly died. A few times.

 

[HookerBoots]

Fumiko blinked. She'd had no idea it was that far. "Let me ask him, to be sure." She handed the reigns to Sheng. "Just don't jiggle them too much and we'll be fine." Then she scrambled up his head like a squirrel, hand over hand in his fur. When she reached the top, she stretched out on her stomach, the way she had as a child. "Appa."

"Grunt."

"Can we make the Great Divide today? The side closest to us."

". . . Grunt."

"You're certain? We don't want to tire you out."

"Grunt."

She climbed back to Sheng and took the reigns back. "Appa says he's sure we can do it." She smiled, and shrugged. "I think the difference is the terrain down there. We don't have to wait for a boat, and we don't have to walk over or around obstacles." Fumiko glanced back, seeing Fukiko moving her arms as she chatted with Sai. "And 'Kiko's bending a little, giving us better winds. So we should be fine."

She glanced down at the ocean going past them. This was the best part of flying, moving without the sensation of motion. "Sheng, where are we going to stay when we get to Ba Sing Se? Father and Mother don't like to talk about their time there, so we don't know much about the city."

 

[Ahren1]

Sai continued to watch Fukiko with great interest. As she moved closer to him, he smiled lightly, very approving of the space between them growing smaller each passing moment. Of course, he was a tad self-conscious with Sheng and her sister nearby, but it wasn't enough to stop him from showing her that he was growing fond of her, and from the looks of things, she was feeling the same. The blush that had followed his words indicated that his actual intent of the phrase had gotten across, and not unappreciated. Occasionally he looked toward her hands as she helped Appa fly with her bending. An impressive display, but he couldn't help but feel she was only doing so to keep her hands busy. Something he wouldn't mind assisting her with, personally.

What Fukiko uttered next was not entirely surprising, but did remind him of how he was basically deceiving her right from the start, and brought that uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach back again. He wished he could tell her everything right now, and then pray she did not toss him off Appa right there. But he couldn't. She was aware he was hiding something, which only made things worse. Did that mean she would never fully trust him, or keep her distance out of fear or concern? He had to at least know just what she was feeling at the moment. He had to make sure he was not just seeing a flash of desire in her eyes because he wished to see it. With quiet, deep breath, Sai reached his hand out to take one of Fukiko's into his own and grip it gently.

"There is no need to work so hard. Take the travel time as time to rest, so we can be prepared for anything that awaits us. As far as me.. Well, I really would be happy to tell you about myself, and I would enjoy getting to know you as well.. This.. secret is meaningless, really. Just know that my being here is with genuine interest to help you on your quest, and to protect you with my life, even though you are clearly capable of handling yourself." Sai chuckled a bit, hoping he wasn't coming off as condescending implying that she might need protection from someone who wasn't a bender, which he did not mean or believe anyways.

At the next moment, he noticed Fukiko climb upon Appa's head and attempt to speak to the large creature. It seemed she had done so successfully as well. It sounded as if they would be passing over the Great Divide. In just one day? It was quite a feat, and Sai had to give credit to the flying bison for being so aged yet still so swift. Then again, he knew nothing about the lifespan of such creatures. For all he knew, Appa was just hitting his prime. Then the inevitable came up. Once they reached Ba Sing Se, they would need a resting spot of sorts. He knew now that Sheng wasn't fond of home for one reason or another, so staying wherever he was from probably was out of the question.

"There are quite a few places to rent rooms at reasonable prices. I'm sure lodging will not be much of an issue.." Sai added, only breaking his gaze from Fukiko for a moment before finding himself needing to look back at her radiance once again. If he was lucky, they would have to share rooms. Hopefully he would get to spend the night close to Fukiko again. Just to have her nearby made everything much more pleasant. Even if it was to be a generic hotel.

 

[Armphid]

Sheng shook his head, it was insane how much faster this was. They could be in Ba Sing Se in a week. Madness. Just...he thought he'd have more time to prepare, to brace himself. "Amazing," he said, his face showing his shock. "Just...I never imagined it would be so different."

Before he could answer Fumiko's question, Sai spoke up about their accommodations in the city. What should he say? He could tell them the truth now...but he didn't want to. He didn't want to think about the truth. "Sai is right, there are a lot of inns and hostels in Ba Sing Se, but we won't need to do that."

He looked back at Fukiko, and then to Fumiko, "No offense, but your father holds grudges when it comes to certain things. He's been to the city since his first time there, but never stays more than a day." It was something of a bone of contention actually. Father felt that the Avatar was snubbing the Earth Kingdom for events beyond it's control, particularly since Avatar Aang spend a lot of time in the Fire Nation as the Fire Lord's guest. It was something of a diplomatic slap in the face. "Regardless of that, he was a house that's his. It was given to him for that first visit, and, well, it's HIS house. The Earth King has made sure it's kept clean and it good repair for the Avatar even when he's not there. It's a pretty nice place in the Upper Ring. Small for an Upper Ring house, but it'll be fine for us."

He then sighed, "Although once we get to the city, I'll need to see my family and I'll probably have to stay with them." He wasn't looking forward to it. It would be good to see his siblings again. But meeting with Father, and father's wife, and...he'd have to go and see Mother too...

Sheng's face fell into a torn mask of grief and guilt, and he turned away from the others. "...I'm feeling a little queasy," he lied. "I'll just lean over here so I don't bother anyone." He moved away from Fumiko to the side of the large saddle leaning over it and staring out at the horizon with sad, thoughtful eyes, and did not speak until they stopped for the night.

~~~​

The sky was painted a myriad of colors as Appa finally swung in toward the ground with a bellowing grunt. He landed heavily, the impact jarring his passengers. Shaking himself, the massive beast clomped over to the edge of the nearby cliff and looked out over the Great Divide.

The canyon was massive and sprawling, hundreds of miles long and over 10 miles wide, with twisting and turning crags and valleys. Huge stone plinths and short mesas rose up from the canyon floor, the colors of the stone changing the higher or lower one looked.

Sheng stood up in the saddle. The long trip had helped to dispell his sullen mood somewhat, and the sight of the Divide pushed all but a few clinging vestiges of it away. "Look at that." He crossed his arms over his chest, a faint smile on his lips. His kingdom was a place of wonders, and of such beauty...people often forgot that. "I've seen it before, but every time...it never gets less spectacular."

For a few more minutes, he watched, then he sighed. Watching the canyon wasn't going to get them supper or a set up camp. He leaped off of Appa, the ground beneath him cratering slightly as he landed to absorb some of the impact. As he stood, he shifted through a few powerful stances, striking firmly with his hands and postioning his feet. The earth rumbled and cracked, and in moments, a large fire ring and two fair sized earth tents had sprung up, as well as a huge earth 'stable' for Appa. "Well, camp's ready."

He grinned up at his fellow travelers. "So, what now?"

 

[HookerBoots]

Looking around, Fumiko smiled at Sheng. "Well, the next step would be figuring what to make for dinner." There wasn't much to forage here, but they could find something if they didn't want to use their stores. With a shrug, she turned slowly. There was a small pond nearby, so they could have fresh water, and there might be fish in it. But that was up to everyone else.

"And after dinner, I was thinking we could have a rematch, Sheng. It'll be more fair, since last time I had an advantage." Of course, she thought, there'd be nothing better than beating him again, but she was prepared to accept losing gracefully. "Unless you don't want to."

Fukiko helped Sai off Appa, and smiled shyly at him. "We can talk more over dinner, if you like." She glanced at her sister, and smiled again. "Or we could look for whatever grows around here that's edible. Not that I'd know," she added in a whisper. She threw her sister a wink - that way they could both have time with the men they were interested in. Grabbing Sai's hand, she smiled at him and motioned for him to come with her, heading towards a stand of trees a ways away.

 

[Ahren1]

Sai watched Sheng as he explained about the Avatar's house, which was given to him personally by the Earth King for extended stays in Ba Sing Se. From Sheng's expression, it was a topic that bothered him somewhat, that or the realization that he was going home was slowly increasing in his mind. The Firebender had to wonder just what had happened with Sheng at home that made him so wary about returning. Could it have been anything like his own situation? It did seem like his depressing tone revealed itself every time he mentioned his family. Then again, Sai's family induced anger in him, whereas Sheng seemed to just dislike the situation he was dealt. Either way, they would likely discover why sooner or later, then Sai would be the lone secret keeper. But it was necessary, for now. He had to keep telling himself that, or risk revealing himself for the wrong reasons... and losing his chance at revenge, his chance at redemption, and his chance with Fukiko forever.

When they reached the Great Divide, Sheng's mood seemed to lighten at the sight of the landscape, to which he continued to admire for a good long time before finally suggesting they set up a camp and acquire dinner. Sai had observed the same canyon from atop Appa, and for some reason felt less than impressed. It was odd. Normally such sights were the perfect inspiration for him and his artistic ability, but that feeling was absent this time around. Instead, it was replaced with a redundant feeling, as if he had seen this before. He had, actually, but he had often enjoyed going back to the more beautiful landscapes more than once. Was something distracting him this time around? He managed to answer his own mental question when Fukiko offered to help him off Appa, and his gaze turned to her. No wonder the beauty of the landscape failed to impress him. He had something more beautiful to focus on.

The way she smiled indicated she most likely had some of the same feelings towards him as well, and as he took her hand and dismounted the great flying beast, he nodded in response to her suggestion that they talk more over dinner. Though, before he could get in his own comment, he found himself being tugged away to the trees, with the apparent goal of locating something edible around there. Sai's first thoughts were not really on food, however, just that he was glad to have a few moments with Fukiko alone, again. As they walked and finally were of decent distance from the others, Sai returned his gaze to his companion and smiled.

"Well, I know for a fact some rabbit-moles make homes around places like this, and often make a good soup.. but for your vegetarian needs, there are also some rather flavorful mushrooms that I've grown fond of as well.." He began, however he knew he didn't wish to waste this moment simply discussing what they would be acquiring for dinner. As he gazed upon Fukiko more, he let his eyes roam her body a bit. He did not wish to offend her, but the beauty and perfection of her form was giving him an idea.

"Normally I enjoy painting places like this, as they capture nature's beauty quite well, but it.. did not hit me this time. I think.. I would like to paint you, instead. I think you define beauty.." He added, softly, his golden eyes peering into Fukiko's shimmering brown gaze. He had the urge to get closer to her, but his fear suddenly returned. He didn't want to hurt her somehow. Everyone he got close to seemed to get hurt, one way or another. Fukiko was the last person he ever wished to see harmed.. but her lips looked rather inviting, holding back was only going to get harder, and their journey had just begun..

 

[Armphid]

A rematch? The fire that ignited in his eyes was almost visible at the words. A fight! Just what he needed to shake the last vestiges of his bad mood off. And a chance to redeem his pitiful performance before, to show he was a man, a powerful bender, to reclaim honor and pride! To prove that his utter defeat and emasculation was just a fluke!

Unless he lost again...at which point, having that AND going home, he might just wander into the Divide and stay there. Hell, no might about it. But, no! No way was he going to lose! Even to her...even though winning might ruin any chance he had with her.

"Not want to?" Sheng scoffed, "I love to fight, Fumiko. I always want to do it." Well, not always. There were times he wanted to eat, and times he wanted to...well, never mind that. "So, sure, we can have a rematch." He looked at her, noting that she didn't seem to be as excited as he was at the prospect. Meaning she likely meant it to be more play that fight, just a little light practice.

Bleah.

Fine though. He'd just still have to make sure he won it.

"You're on, Fumiko." The same savage grin that had appeared on his face during their battle with the Fire benders had started to cross his face. He struggled to contain it, to hold back his fighting spirit. This wasn't serious. It was just a sparring match. He had to remember that, to hold back. "After dinner. Unless you want to do it right now." A hand lifted to the the cloth frogs of his tunic, not undoing them, just hovering there, ready to do so.

 

[HookerBoots]

Fukiko

Her smile was pleased, and she blushed lightly. "You would want to paint me? I'd be honored." She stepped close to him, hands lightly clasped behind her back. "You are very sweet, Sai. And I like being with you, even though we've just met." Fukiko glanced around - she didn't really know why, except that the notion of a rabbit-mole watching them freaked her out - and leaned forward, pressing her lips to his quickly.

After a second, she pulled back, smiling lightly. "I probably shouldn't have done that. But I'm glad I did." Sighing, she looked around again. "But, I suppose we should get back to finding something for dinner. As much as I'd rather do that again."

 

[HookerBoots]

Fumiko

She raised an eyebrow coolly. "If you want to do it now, we certainly can." He was clearly very eager to have another chance to beat her, and she sighed inwardly. She didn't wanted to lose on purpose, but she didn't want to beat him. He took it so hard the last time that she didn't want to risk him getting depressed. As his grin grew wider and he began to unfasten his tunic, Fumiko grinned back and pulled her tunic over her head. Use every weapon you have, as her parents and aunts and uncles had taught her, and this was a weapon she didn't even have to work to use.

"Ready?" She took up a starting stance, hands poised over the water skin hanging at her waist.

He nodded, and she braced herself for his first attack, pulling out a globe of water and splitting it to hover in three smaller globes around herself. Sheng pulled up a chunk of rock and kicked it towards her, breaking into small pieces as it shot towards her. The globes swung around to intercept the rocks, stopping them and dropping them to the ground.

She pulled out another globe and sent it towards him, spreading it out in a mesh that would freeze at her command. Instead, he dodged and threw up a rock ledge to block the splash as it hit the ground, knowing she could freeze him to the ground with it.

They both circled warily. He was doing a lot better this time, perhaps because they had done this before. Fumiko flicked a globe of water toward him again, and as he threw up another sheet of rock to block it, her hands extended and spread. The globe broke into shards of ice, sailing around the stone and pelting into his chest.

Now, let's see . . . she couldn't run, because he'd sense where she was going, so instead . . . the globes of water spread out over the ground and froze. Fumiko slid across it, towards him, and suddenly, she felt a rumble in the ground beneath her . . . .

 

[Armphid]

Sheng's eyes almost bulged out of his head when her tunic came off. She was still wearing that swimming cloth from before, but...it still showed a great amount of her ample flesh. "That's cheating," he called out with a grin, "...but somehow I don't mind that much." He wouldn't lose. Not this time. He was rested, ready, and knew something of what to expect now. If she thought he'd fall as easily as last time, she was in for a surprise. He'd prove his worth.

He nodded when she asked if he was ready, muscle rippling under his bare skin as he assumed a ready stance, his savage grin now only a hair away from being a snarl. There was a tense moment, her balance shifted ever so slightly, and he struck, "Rrryaa!"

She fought well, but he was making her work for it. Barely five seconds in and he could see sweat on her brow, and on her chest. It was hard for him to look away from it anyway, but it actually gave him an advantage. He could 'see' everything with his earth sense, but watching her chest, how her muscles shifted, told him what her arms would do before they moved. Again she lashed out at him, and he blocked, but she was cunning, and ice arched around his pelt his chest.

Fury rose in him. First strike from her, again! He couldn't even touch her and she...again! No! No way in all the hells! He wouldn't lose! He'd not go down without even landing a blow! "Not again! Block THIS!"

He didn't even see her as she skated forward on the ice covered ground. He lifted his arms, raising a tall block of earth, then leaped straight up and brought both fists down on it. The rock shot back down into the ground and even further, and the ground burst and broke in an expanding circle. It rolled like the sea, cracking, snapping and breaking where it was not fluid enough to do so, the cliff face shaking, from far below came the shrieking sound of rock tearing from the canyon walls.

The ice shattered under Fumiko as the ground buckled and rose under her, flinging her into the air. Where there was no water to bend, nothing for traction to dodge or block. Where she was his. Sheng snarled and pulled back, ready to throw rock her way...but as his arms started forward, they stopped. If he threw them, he'd hurt her.

The pause was long enough for Fumiko's short flight to reach it's end...which happened to be where Sheng was standing. The young earthbender's eyes widened, and the arms that had been about to pound her with stone reached out to catch the attractive missile as best he could. The impact bowled him over, the two young people tumbling back and away from the impact crater he'd created.

Sheng landed on his back, Fumiko in his arms, cradled to him. "Fumiko, are you o-," he opened his eyes and saw her, her hair tumbled and mussed, her skin flush with excitement, a thin sheen of sweat on her body, her eyes bright, "...oh," he finished, unable to say more. Before, he'd turned away from her, not wanting to ruin what might happen. It had taken all his will, he hadn't wanted to risk what feelings they might have in this newness, or take advantage of her. He'd had the will to do so then. But now she was on top of him, barely dressed, her ripe young body pressed against his, warm and firm, and the she looked...

One of his hands tangled in her hair, cradling the back of her head as he pressed his lips fiercely to hers. Spirits and Gods! How sweet she tasted! It wasn't until the kiss was well begun and held that he wondered if he'd perhaps gone too far...

 

[HookerBoots]

Fumiko

The flight had been perhaps less terrifying that it could have been - her father was an airbender, after all - because she knew how to at least change the direction she was falling. But she was still going to fall, and probably have a broken bone to show for it. At least she could heal it, but it would still hurt like hell. And then she realized she was falling directly towards Sheng.

Why couldn't she be an airbender? At least then she could stop herself, keep them from both crashing to the ground.

As Fumiko slammed into him, and they were rolling across the ground, she could feel his arms around her, holding her to his chest tenderly. The warmth of his muscles against her body, his strong arms encircling her, it felt so good. Even though they were both filthy and sweaty, she saw in his eyes his feelings and desire for her.

And the kiss . . . Spirits, it was hot and sweet and amazing. One hand went to his hair, stroking it gently before pulling his face even closer, slipping her tongue past his lips. Her other hand rested against the side of his neck, her legs widening slightly to slide to either side of his hips. Were they moving too fast? She wasn't sure she cared. This felt too good, his arms around her and his mouth on hers.

 

[Armphid]

His eyes opened in surprise as her tongue slid into his mouth, and then went dewy with a muffled moan at the sensation. This was the same boldness with which she’d challenged him when they first met, and had driven her to ride the Unagi. He found it sexier than hell. Sheng always had a thing for strong, bold women. The kiss broke, only to be renewed with the same fervor, their tongues dueling for dominance…or perhaps just to feel each other.

She was straddling him now, and his proud manhood was fully awake and ready from the sweet, sweaty grappling of their bodies and the mad heat of their kisses. Before he could think not to, he rolled his hips up, letting it press against her through the cloth of their pants.

He’d known that he liked her. He’d known that he found her attractive and beautiful, daring and bright, innocent and sweet but not cloying. It wasn’t until then that he knew that he wanted her. Wanted her in the most intense and carnal way.

But she was far too good for him, in station and in person. And even if she was interested in him…she deserved better than rolling in the dirt.

He pulled back, their lips parting with an audible sound. He looked up at her, his chest heaving, his arms about her, hands moving up and down her back. “Fumiko, I…are you okay? Not the fall, I mean, with…with this. You’re so special and I feel so many things at once about this that…” He shook his head, sighing. “Should have stuck to the kissing. That, I’m good at.”

 

[HookerBoots]

Fumiko

He pulled back and she felt decidedly sad about it. It was probably best, since she was very warm for some reason, but . . . spirits, it felt good being in his arms. And she had a suspicion that was why she was so terribly warm now. But she laughed when he finished talking. "You are good at it, yes."

Licking her lips, savoring the taste of him still there, she smiled a little. "I'm very okay with it." Wiggling slightly, she felt his hardness against her again and her smile broadened. "Trust me, Sheng, you are wonderful, and I . . . I'll be glad for whatever happens between us." The hand against his hair stroked gently, and Fumiko pressed herself tightly against him again. "I can't think why I wouldn't be okay with this."

Her finger stroked the side of his face, and she laughed again. "Haven't you noticed I've been trying to get you into this position since we met?"

 

[Armphid]

“You have?” Sheng’s blue eyes were wide with surprise. A slow, sheepish, almost shy smile spread over his face. He’d been sure he had imagined it since he wanted it to be true, or that she’d just felt the first stirrings of that kind and wasn’t sure how to handle it. She was, or maybe seemed so innocent, but…”I guess I didn’t.”

His hands moved, one at the small of her back and the other to one shoulder, holding her to him. Her body felt so good against his. And it had nearly killed him when she’d pressed against his erection. Which hadn’t bothered her at all either. She’d smiled. Did she know what it was? And what it meant?

“I guess I’m not used to being pursued,” he responded after a moment of just looking into her warm, dancing eyes. “But I have to say I’ve never been happier to be caught.”

If this, if he was what she wanted, then it was hers, he was hers. He’d held back for fear of hurting her, or thinking that she was a girl in first lust who’d regret it later, but now he knew better. Now, there was no reason to hold himself back.

The earthbender leaned in to kiss her again, an erotic thrill running through him at the passionate and eager response he got. “Mmm, Fumiko,” he breathed. His tongue tip dragged along her lips before they parted and let him in. She shifted against him, and he groaned as his member rubbed against her through his trousers.

 

[HookerBoots]

Fumiko

She kissed him back, taking his tongue into her mouth eagerly. She could feel her nipples pressing against his chest, her stomach pressing against his. Even though she hadn't ever been with man before, Fumiko knew what was rubbing against her. And she was interested in it as well as a little amazed that something like that . . . well, they'd have to work on that, wouldn't they?

He had been so sweet, trying to wait to make sure she was certain that she wanted this. Even though he'd bungled it rather poorly. But that itself was endearing, and made her feel flattered because he'd tried so hard to not 'take advantage' of her.

She pulled out of the kiss reluctantly. "Sheng, we shouldn't do this now." Seeing the confused look on his face, she explained. "Sai and 'Kiko could be back any time. But I'd like to continue it later, maybe someplace with a bed."