Chapter 2: Journey to Ba Sing Se

Guts had decided to journey to the capital of the Earth Kingdom to find a master to teach him firebending. He knew it would be a difficult journey, but he was determined to succeed. So he left the village before dawn, taking only a few provisions and his usual equipment: his massive sword, his mechanical arm with its cannon and crossbow, and his black clothes that set him apart from other travelers.

He walked all day, crossing dense forests and grassy plains. Wild beasts were plentiful in these regions, and Guts had to fight them off to protect himself. He fought hungry wolves, venomous snakes, fierce bears, and even crocodiles in the rivers. Luckily for him, he had extensive survival experience and exceptional strength that allowed him to get out of difficult situations.

Despite the many dangers he encountered along the way, Guts managed to advance slowly but surely. He was determined to reach the capital at all costs. He often recalled his past battles to give himself courage and convince himself that he was capable of overcoming all obstacles.

At nightfall, Guts stopped in a small clearing to rest. He lit a campfire and prepared a simple meal with the provisions he had brought. He didn't eat much, knowing he had to save his resources for the rest of the journey.

He fell asleep quickly, but he was awakened by the sound of a creature approaching. He jumped up and drew his sword. He was facing a group of bandits who had decided to rob him. But Guts was not an easy man to catch off guard. He fought them with impressive speed and strength, sending his opponents flying in all directions. He cut them all down, leaving no survivors.

After defeating the bandits, Guts resumed his journey to the capital of the Earth Kingdom. His body was covered in sweat and dust.

Guts focused on his walk. He remembered the many battles he had fought in the past. Battles against demons were commonplace for him, and compared to those, this fight was nothing more than a warm-up. Guts had seen death up close many times, and it had forged his resilience and determination to continue on despite the hardships. He remembered the moments of peace and tranquility he had experienced between battles, and that made him move forward. The days passed, and Guts encountered no more danger on his way. He had finally arrived at the gates of the capital, ready to face whatever stood in his way.

The city was immense and lively. People from all walks of life mingled there, from rich merchants to wandering beggars. Guts was impressed by the contrast between the quiet life he had known in his small village and the turmoil of the city. He knew his quest would be difficult in such a large place, but he was determined to succeed.

He set out to find the former general of the Fire Nation, Iroh. He asked passersby if they knew his location, but no one seemed to know where he was. Guts didn't give up and continued his search.

He spent several days searching for Iroh, questioning every person he met. Finally, he heard of an old sage who taught firebending to a few students. Guts realized that this was probably Iroh and set out to find him.

He soon arrived at the sage's home, a small house located outside the city. He knocked on the door and was greeted by a smiling and benevolent old man.

"Hello, young man. What can I do for you?" asked Iroh.

"I am a vagabond who is looking for a master to teach me firebending. I have been told that you are an excellent teacher," replied Guts.

Iroh smiled again.