A Simple Promise (Part 2)

The nighttime ambiance of Ba Sing Se differed greatly from the tranquil shores of their island home. Though the rhythmic lull of waves was absent, the gentle chorus of fireflies wove a serene melody through the air, casting an enchanting glow over the city.

Led by officials responsible for their accommodation, the sisters were directed to a colossal, circular edifice sculpted entirely from earth. Rising multiple stories high, its imposing facade comprised a fusion of granite, limestone, and compacted soil. Such structures are a marvel to Mayumi, who is in awe at their abundance across the Agrarian Zone, often clustered together in sprawling complexes. Each tulou dwarfed anything their modest Kyoshi Island community could conceive, capable of housing populations surpassing their entire village.

"Here, I brought you dinner," Mayumi announced, ascending the stairs to their humble quarters.

Satchiko leaned against the weathered wooden railing, her gaze fixed upon the courtyard below. Gratefully accepting the bowl of steaming rice porridge, she noticed tender slices of cabbage adorning the simple fare. In the state of Yi, she once scorned such humble meals, lamenting the congee's lack of flavor and variety compared to meat dishes. Yet, confronted with the harsh realities of existence in the Earth Kingdom, she had come to appreciate the nourishment and sustenance they provided.

"Thank you, big sis," Satchiko said, her chopsticks already dancing over the bowl, not a single grain of rice escaping her voracious appetite.

Meanwhile, Mayumi savored her own meal in a manner approved by their strict mother, casting occasional glances toward the courtyard where a vibrant scene unfolded.

Below them, children darted and dashed, their laughter echoing off the walls. Toys is a luxury here. Instead, they made do with rocks, each one imbued with the magic of their imagination. The rules of their games are a mystery to the Kyoshi Warriors, but the harmony of their play was unmistakable. Amidst the dusty ground, their clothes painted a kaleidoscope of colors, each hue representing a different journey, a different story of survival and hope in this bustling city.

"It might sound a bit lofty, but wouldn't it be wonderful if we all embraced each other like those kids down there?" Satchiko mused, her gaze fixed on the playful scene below. In their innocent camaraderie, she glimpsed a vision of a world untainted by the divisions that plagued the fractured realm. Yet, even as she indulged in this dream, the harsh reality of conflict lingered in her thoughts. The sight of children at play juxtaposed with the memory of soldiers slaughtering each other. Though she acknowledged the complexities that fueled such conflicts, her heart yearned for a simpler, kinder existence for all.

It's almost as if the sole reason to their feud is the result of the clothes they wear.

Mayumi silently savored the last spoonful of her congee, her thoughts drifting to the weight of responsibility that rested upon their shoulders. Once her bowl was empty, she gently nudged Satchiko, a subtle reminder to the importance of focusing on what they could control rather than indulging in lofty aspirations. "Having grand ambitions is rather pointless if you can't fulfil lesser demands."

Satchiko let out a soft sigh, a tacit acknowledgment of her past impulsiveness and the wisdom in Mayumi's words. Before they could delve further into their earlier conversation, their attention was diverted by the sight of a robed figure approaching.

"Isn't that the man from Xiao Zhong who accompanied us?" Satchiko queried, recalling the Khan's particular attention to the individual, even granting him a seat within the confines of a Sky Bison saddle.

Cloaked in dark green robes, the newcomer's identity as a scholar from Xiao Zhong was unmistakable. Before Mayumi could inquire about his purpose, he approached them with a respectful bow. "I am Su Song, here to express my heartfelt gratitude."

Even Mayumi, known for her composure, was momentarily taken aback by the unexpected gesture. Yet, both Kyoshi Warriors struggled to comprehend the source of his gratitude.

"Forgive our confusion," Mayumi began cautiously. "But it was the Kheshig Khan who escorted you to Ba Sing Se, not us."

Su Song rose back up after listened attentively to Mayumi's reasoned response, acknowledging the complexities of their situation. He clarified that the specific act which warranted his gratitude is actually the timely intervention of saving those refugees.

The scholar then elaborated on the dire circumstances plaguing their homeland, where fleeing peasants meant abandoned fields and dwindling resources for the landowning nobles. A state would never wish to see its resources depleted while bolstering a neighbor which might become its future enemy. He underscored the shared plight of both Xiao Zhong and Jian Xin, beset by a devastating drought that drove even more to forsake their ancestral homes.

"The refugees from my homeland have relayed everything," Su Song continued earnestly. "They speak of your heroic intervention, of the lives you saved. For this, I am forever indebted to your selfless actions."

With another bow, Su Song expressed his gratitude once more, leaving the two sisters grappling with conflicting emotions. Balancing the duty to save others with safeguarding their own lives proved to be an intricate dance. Mayumi felt the weight of responsibility heavy upon her as she struggled to dissuade Satchiko from reckless acts, yet found herself unable to dispute the nobility of their actions in saving strangers in need.

"It's fine," Mayumi murmured, her words deliberately clipped, unwilling to bask in the praise.

"Big sis, look, more guys in robes," Satchiko interjected, pointing toward a group of men clad in scholarly attire. As they drew near, Su Song turned to greet them, and both parties exchanged respectful bows, adhering to the ancient customs ingrained in Earth Kingdom society.

"Brother Zheng," Su Song addressed a man clad in light green robes, prompting cautious observation from Satchiko and Mayumi. Memories of nearby conflicts resurfaced, tinged with apprehension, yet the cordial exchange between the men assuaged their initial fears.

"I'm relieved to see you've arrived safely in Ba Sing Se," the man in light green expressed, echoed by the members of his entourage.

Su Song turned to the Kyoshi Warriors, offering introductions to the group. "My friends, allow me to present Zheng Guo, the chief minister overseeing the canal project in Ba Sing Se's Agrarian Zone."

With a respectful bow, the middle-aged Zheng Guo acknowledged their presence. Observing his slight build, the Kyoshi Warriors discerned no immediate threat. It became apparent through their conversation that all present are hydraulic engineers, with Su Song likely poised to join their ranks. Yet, the fact that they hailed from either Xiao Zhong or Jian Xin raised eyebrows, evoking a sense of suspicion, particularly for Mayumi.

"The analects of the first Earth Sage emphasize loyalty to one's ruler," Mayumi began cautiously. "How do you reconcile that with fleeing to a neighboring state amidst natural disasters in your homeland?"

Mayumi's direct inquiry hung in the air. A weighty demand for accountability that echoed the principles of communal care espoused by the first Earth Sage, who asserts that the structure of a harmonious family should be imitated by a functioning state. Following the highly important value of filial piety, the teachings of the Earth Sages emphasized that subjects should demonstrate loyalty to their rulers akin to an obedient child's relationship to their father. Since both Jian Xin and Xiao Zhong are struck by severe droughts, why are these expert canal builders coming to Ba Sing Se instead of helping their homeland?

Zheng Guo, with a friendly smile, acknowledged Mayumi's familiarity with the sage's teachings.

"It's commendable that you're acquainted with the wisdom of the first Earth Sage," Zheng Guo remarked, his demeanor affable.

"My father delves much deeper into those teachings than I do," Mayumi admitted. "I've only skimmed through some of his books."

In response, Zheng Guo offered insight into the motivations driving their migration from Jian Xin and Xiao Zhong. While Ba Sing Se indeed offered better opportunities and incentives for their expertise, their decision was rooted in a desire to uplift their homelands, a task rendered near impossible by the current circumstances. The prolonged conflict spanning two decades had ravaged both states, inflicting untold suffering and depleting invaluable resources that could have been allocated to infrastructure projects. Peasants and Earthbenders, vital to such endeavors, were instead conscripted into the brutal frontline clashes, their lives sacrificed by the hundreds of thousands in the barren expanse between warring factions.

Furthermore, the entrenched nepotism within their respective states posed a formidable barrier to progress. Governed by patrimonialism, both warlords favored kin over merit, relegating talented scholars to the sidelines while promoting their own relatives to key positions of power.

"The first Earth Sages remain consistent with ancient rites and rituals that forms the early culture of the Earth Kingdom," Zheng Guo emphasized. "But the analects are also never fond of rulers who do not govern their lands justly, which is why it is the heaven's will for scholars like ourselves to serve a state who is more compassionate to the commoners. This is also why I brought many of my countrymen out of Xiao Zhong, even though this act might further endanger my own life."

Satchiko readily embraced Zheng Guo's rationale, her memories of Xiao Zhong's brutality serving as grim testament to the necessity of seeking refuge in a more compassionate state like Ba Sing Se. Recognizing the potential for their skills to benefit incoming refugees fleeing drought and conflict, she found solace in the belief that their actions could bring tangible relief to those in need. However, Mayumi remained cautiously skeptical, wary of Ba Sing Se's potential to exploit the talents and resources of Jian Xin and Xiao Zhong to its own advantage.

"Nevertheless, we are grateful for your virtuous act," Zheng Guo expressed, his sincerity palpable. He gestured for one of his engineers, a man hailing from Xiao Zhong, to step forward. In a startling revelation, the Kyoshi Warriors discovered that they had rescued the wife and infant of this very man.

"Wife and baby?" Satchiko exclaimed, taken aback. "But there's only one baby in our entire group!" The memory of their harrowing encounter with a Xiao Zhong cavalryman, who had pursued the helpless pair, resurfaced vividly in her mind.

Kneeling in profound gratitude, the man's kneeling caught the sisters off guard. Mayumi swiftly reassured him, urging him to rise and dispelling any notion of indebtedness. Yet, beneath her composed facade, she harbored a silent acknowledgment of the precariousness of their intervention, refraining from divulging the convoluted motivation that could have prevented their rescue.

"It's fine, sir, we are no heroes," Mayumi conceded, her expression tinged with a hint of regret. The desire to ensure Satchiko's safety had often clashed with the impulse to aid others, a conflict that weighed heavily on her conscience. Had it not been for fortuitous interventions, their fates could have easily taken a darker turn.

Seeking to leverage the goodwill garnered from their recent deeds, Mayumi broached the topic of navigating Ba Sing Se's bureaucratic maze. Hindered by their status as refugees upon arrival, they found themselves barred from accessing the urban core, which is a significant obstacle to Satchiko's aspirations as a student.

"Esteemed scholars, my sister and I are eager to reach Ba Sing Se University. We were extended an invitation by Master Xuan Zang. Do any of you know of a way for us to expediently gain entry to the heart of the city?" Mayumi queried, prompting Satchiko to produce the invitation letter bearing Xuan Zang's distinctive handwriting. As Minister Zheng Guo and his colleagues scrutinized the contents, confirming its authenticity, they nodded in agreement.

"This is indeed Master Xuan Zang's letter," Zheng Guo affirmed. "However, recipients of such invitations usually hail from esteemed families and are expected to arrive through other means."

Su Song interjected, shedding light that scholars handpicked by the city's elite are granted immediate access to its most prestigious districts, while refugee peasants are directed to settle in the Agrarian Zone. In light of the sweeping reforms enacted over the past two decades, living within the safety of the city's walls held considerable allure, with incentives aplenty for those willing to abide by its strict regulations. Aside from landowning noblemen with questionable loyalty, even the most impoverished would find a new life here.

Minister Zheng Guo echoed Su Song's sentiments, cautioning against the formidable rigidity of Ba Sing Se's bureaucracy and emphasizing the limited authority of civil servants managing refugee affairs.

"Trust me, Ba Sing Se's bureaucracy can be notoriously strict, especially with the recent reforms twenty years ago," Zheng Guo emphasized. "The civil servants managing the refugees are only allowed to grant passage to scholars and merchants towards the heart of the city. As for you two, they must have simply grouped you with the peasants who are seeking a new place to farm. I would suggest getting a special commission from someone holding relevant office."

Mayumi pressed for further details. "And who might that be?"

"Seeking an audience with the commander of a nearby garrison may suffice," Zheng Guo suggested. "If you can persuade them to issue a gate pass to the Lower Ring, it should help your journey."

Grateful for the valuable guidance, the two sisters bowed respectfully to Minister Zheng Guo and his entourage. With cordial farewells exchanged, Su Song departed with Zheng Guo's group, leaving Mayumi and Satchiko to ponder their next course of action.

Mayumi's exhale carried a sense of relief as she reflected on their encounter with knowledgeable individuals who offered insights into the city's bureaucracy.

"It's timely, we will head to the nearby garrison at dawn," she announced, making her way back to their modest quarters to begin organizing their belongings.

Meanwhile, Satchiko remained in the courtyard, watching the children's playful antics with a thoughtful gaze. Today's events had stirred a deep contemplation within her. A good person can be bold and daring, selfless and courageous. A great warrior can even be fondly remembered for their virtues instead of martial prowess. The memory of their recent brush with death served as a stark reminder of the potential costs of reckless endeavors.

Even a naive girl like herself would recognize that always depending on luck will eventually fail. She has already been humbled multiple times on the way to Ba Sing Se. Perhaps now would be a good time to let their narrow escape from death be the last lesson she needed to learn.

As rain began to drizzle from the sky, the children scampered back to their shelter. Satchiko remained, leaning against the weathered wooden rails, lost in thought. She sensed Mayumi emerging from their shared room, their presence a comforting reminder of solidarity amidst uncertainty.

"Come on, sister, let's get some rest," Mayumi gently urged, approaching Satchiko who remained lost in thought, her gaze fixed on the courtyard.

"I've been thinking about what you said," Satchiko replied, her voice barely audible over the sound of the rain.

"And?" Mayumi inquired, her tone tinged with skepticism.

Without a word, Satchiko extended her pinky finger, a silent pledge to abandon the impulsive actions that had nearly led to their demise. The heaviness of the rain obscured their surroundings, but in that moment, their shared understanding transcended words.

Mayumi was taken aback by her sister's unexpected agreement, grappling with the weight of their recent experiences. She didn't dare question Satchiko's newfound resolve, recognizing the toll that their encounters had taken on the young warrior. With a solemn nod, she intertwined her pinky finger with Satchiko's, sealing their vow.

Though it may have seemed like a trivial gesture to an outsider, to Kyoshi Warriors bound by their sacred oaths, it held profound significance. For Mayumi, protecting her sister took precedence above all else, and she would do whatever it took to ensure their safety and unity.

...

The ambiance of the rain enveloped the city, casting a tranquil veil over its bustling streets and hidden enclaves. In Ba Sing Se, where walls held secrets and mysteries, it was all too easy to become consumed by the demands of daily life. Yet, amidst the chaos, there are treasures to be found, serene vistas, opulent palaces, succulent cuisines, and sunsets that rivalled the world's most beautiful.

And what better way to appreciate these wonders than with a warm cup of wine on a chilly, rainy day? Nestled beneath the safety of a remote estate's roof, a minister indulged in this simple pleasure, reclining on a settee crafted from the hide of a baby Sky Bison. With practiced ease, he uncorked a porcelain bottle of sorghum wine, the delicate aroma wafting through the air as he poured a measure into a small, golden cup.

A single sip revealed the wine's exceptional quality, a testament to its royal origins. For ordinary ministers and generals, such a luxury was beyond reach, a single jar of this fine drink surpassed an entire year's salary from the state. Yet, in this moment of indulgence, amidst the gentle patter of raindrops outside, the minister savored the taste of opulence, content in the fleeting respite it offered from the world's relentless demands.

"Wine tastes good, especially if it isn't poisoned."

The state minister savored another sip of wine, relishing its exquisite flavor and not waste this opportunity. Though it might seem unsightly for a government official to indulge in such luxuries, particularly while reclining on poached Sky Bison hide, these opulent trappings are not his own possessions.

Meanwhile, across the room, the true master of the remote villa simmered with silent fury. He watched the minister's indulgence with thinly veiled disdain, offended by both the guest's lack of decorum and the unwelcome implications of his visit. Despite the thorough purging of Queen Hou-Ting's influence, remnants of her regime still lurked in the shadows of the vast Agrarian Zone, clinging to the wealth leeched through noble enfeoffment. To these parasites, the allure of their ill-gotten gains was too powerful to resist. How could they forsake such wealth offered under his majesty's grand vision for the Earth Kingdom? Surely their unfair treatment would warrant the wrath of Avatar Korra, whose indomitable spirit would instill rightful punishment upon the usurpers and villains.

The minister, now on his third cup, praised the wine's sweetness, likening it to a nectar fit for emperors. Meanwhile, the crackling fire in the lavish room cast flickering shadows across the owner's face, betraying his growing impatience.

"I would have appreciated advance notice of your arrival," the mansion's owner remarked, his tone lacking warmth. "That way, I could have properly prepared for your visit. It's rather unusual for a distinguished state official such as yourself to disregard protocol in this manner."

The breach of etiquette was glaring, especially between members of the gentry who held themselves to the highest standards of Ba Sing Se's refined culture. The failure to notify the homeowner of the visit was seen as a grave insult, lacking sincerity to the homeowner's esteemed status. Such blatant disregard for protocol naturally stoked the ire of the mansion's owner.

What further incensed him was the guest's brazen behavior within the confines of the room. Indulging in wine that hadn't been offered, reclining on furniture reserved for the head of the household. It was an affront to propriety. Had it not been for the guest's prestigious rank, the four attendants stationed nearby, armed with dangerously sharp dao blades, would have swiftly cut down the impertinent intruder. Their mere presence was a silent warning of the consequences for further disrespect.

The guest's audacity reached new heights as he helped himself to the fruit on the nearby table, a gesture that only served to exacerbate the homeowner's frustration. Despite his mounting irritation, he refrained from outright ejecting the guest from his premises.

"I see you've acquired fruit from the Eastern Air Temple," the guest remarked casually, popping a berry into his mouth and commenting on its flavor. "Quite the journey, I imagine. But for someone of your stature, I suppose such trinkets pale in comparison to your other acquisitions. Isn't that right, He Shen?"

"Let's skip the formalities," the mansion owner demanded, his tone clipped. "Get to the point of your visit. I prefer matters settled as quickly as possible."

Both men were well aware of the purpose behind the minister's unexpected appearance, having made their respective preparations beforehand.

"Very well," the minister acquiesced with a sigh, momentarily setting aside his enjoyment of the wine. "As you're aware, our treasury has yet to fully recover following the death of Dowager Hou-Ting. The resulting chaos has provided ample moment for opportunists and looters, and the undesirables to enrich themselves. For individuals like myself, there's nothing more gratifying than witnessing the law enforced justly. A caged animal may pose a threat, but as long as it remains confined, there's little cause for concern."

"And what does any of this have to do with your presence in my home?" He Shen challenged, his demeanor tense. "Are you suggesting that I've engaged in such looting?"

The minister hastened to allay any misunderstandings. "Of course not, my dear He Shen. I have every confidence that someone of your stature would never stoop to such common criminality." His tone shifted slightly, his gaze meeting He Shen's directly. "However, I couldn't help but notice the changes in your circumstances since Dowager Hou-Ting joined her ancestors. Even after relocating from the Upper Ring, your household seems to be overflowing with goods."

Despite the modest facade of He Shen's remote mansion, the opulence within its walls was anything but subtle. Within this room alone lay a treasure trove that hinted at He Shen's unparalleled wealth. From an array of porcelain pottery dating back to the Earth Kingdom's first warring states period to exotic artifacts like bronze swords wielded by ancient Earth Kings, even the White Scholar's calligraphy hanging above the fireplace paled in comparison to these priceless relics.

The minister, clearly aiming to provoke He Shen, briefly recounted the latter's remarkable rise to power.

"You certainly had a bold trajectory, one could say," the minister remarked, a hint of admiration mingling with his annoyance. "Born the son of a general who once served on the esteemed Council of Five, you began your career as a lowly palace guard stationed near the palace gate. Yet, within a year, you ascended to the position of vice-president of the city's Ministry of Revenue. Two months later, you were appointed as a Grand Councilor, entrusted with shaping various policies of our nation. And within a mere three months after that, you were further elevated to the esteemed position of Minister of the Imperial Household Department, rubbing shoulders with the most esteemed officials of the Earth Kingdom. It wasn't long before her majesty saw fit to entrust you with both the Ministry of Revenue and the Civil Council, effectively placing the entire revenue of the Earth Kingdom in your hands. She even granted you the authority to appoint your own kin and allies to crucial official positions. Your privileges even extended to riding a steed right within the Royal Palace, an act that caused quite the stir among the Upper Ring. To be frank, I must admit, I've found myself envious of your position from time to time."

He Shen's arrogance swelled in response to the minister's dry smile, his tone dripping with self-assuredness.

"Naturally, the late Dowager recognized talent when she saw it," He Shen asserted firmly. "A wise ruler knows to surround themselves with loyal and capable ministers. A kingdom ruled by scheming villains who lack allegiance to the throne is destined for ruin."

The minister's smile remained unchanged, his response measured. "No state remains perpetually strong or weak. Its strength lies in the integrity of those who uphold its laws. When they are steadfast, the state thrives. When they falter, so too does the state's stability." He turned his gaze to He Shen. "And what did you do with the considerable power bestowed upon you? During the late Dowager's reign, you managed to curry favor quite adeptly, even arranging for your eldest daughter to marry into the royal family. Within the confines of this city, you wielded influence with impunity, engaging in extortion as if beyond reproach. Your associates within the bureaucracy followed suit, indulging in embezzlement and bribery. Military officers under your patronage adopted similar tactics, deliberately prolonging our conflicts with barbarian tribes to line their pockets. You levied exorbitant taxes on our former provinces to further line your own coffers, diverting funds meant for flood relief in the countryside. Peasant revolts became commonplace during the late Dowager's reign, and riots erupted frequently in the Lower Ring as the common folk struggled to afford even the most basic necessities. And yet, your response to the ensuing anarchy following the Dowager's death was notably ineffective. Despite commanding hundreds of thousands, your forces were poorly trained and ill-equipped to handle threats. Replacing promising officers with your own relatives hardly endeared you to the populace."

The minister's voice took on an even more severe tone as he fixed He Shen with an unyielding stare. "Your audacious actions, once bold and brazen, now amount to naught in the absence of her late majesty's favor. Under the current administration, you've been reduced to a mere functionary tasked with transferring the city's funds to essential projects." He paused, his grip on the golden cup tightening, causing it to bend slightly. "Yet, even this lenient decision seems to have been met with ingratitude. Your recent extravagance has become a burden on the state. Fortunately, you appear to have no shortage of potential grave goods to accompany you."

The implication in his final words was clear. Regardless of where one stood on the continent, the crime of treason typically carried a swift and brutal death sentence.

"Baseless accusations!" He Shen retorted, his voice rising in indignation. "How dare you slander an innocent official such as myself! I'll have you know that I have faithfully served her late majesty Hou-Ting. My grandfather fought for the Earth King Kuei in defense against the Fire Nation. The He clan has a long history of loyalty and service to the throne, with many esteemed ancestors holding positions as chancellors and ministers. Who are you, a mere upstart from Omashu, to make such audacious claims?"

"Embezzlement is as grave a crime as treason," the minister countered, his tone unwavering. "Given your position in the Agrarian Zone, it was assumed you would be the ideal candidate to ensure proper allocation of resources. Yet, reports have surfaced of worker revolts at the construction sites for the state's new canals. Furthermore, I've received complaints from council leader General Liu regarding unpaid salaries for some garrisons. Care to enlighten me as to the whereabouts of those missing coins? Weren't you tasked by his excellency to fulfil this duty?"

He Shen's spine chilled as the minister's accusation hung heavy in the air, but he remained defiant, refusing to admit any wrongdoing. However, his resolve wavered when the minister suddenly produced a rolled-up parchment from his sleeve. With a steely gaze, the minister declared that the items listed on the parchment had all been confiscated from He Shen's hidden stash across Ba Sing Se.

A million and a half copper coins.

Fifty-six thousand and six hundred medium silver sycees, each worthing one hundred taels each.

Five million eight hundred thirty thousand small silver sycees, each valued at ten taels each.

Fifty-eight thousand taels of pure gold.

One hundred large sycees of pure gold, each worthing a thousand taels.

"Shall I continue?" The minister's question hung in the air, but He Shen remained silent, his expression a mixture of defiance and resignation. It was clear that he had been backed into a corner, with little room for denial or evasion. Sensing He Shen's tacit admission of guilt, the minister nodded curtly. "Very well then, allow me to continue."

Fifty-eight thousand Fire Nation silver coins.

Six hundred jin of pristine quality Jilin ginseng

One thousand and two hundred jade charms.

Two hundred and thirty pearl bracelets, including ten large pearls.

Ten large rubies

Fourteen thousand and three hundred bolts of fine Upper Ring silk.

Twenty thousand sheets of fine wooly pig wool.

Five hundred and fifty fox antelope hides.

Eight hundred and fifty raccoon dog hides.

Fifty-six thousand wooly sheep and bull pig hides of varying thickness.

Seven thousand sets of fine clothing for all four seasons.

Three hundred sixty-one thousand bronze and tine vases and vessels.

One hundred porcelain vessels made by renown masters of Ba Sing Se.

Twenty-four highly decorative beds made from solid gold, each ornamented with eight different types of gemstones.

Four hundred and sixty high quality antique clocks made from the United Republic.

Twenty barrels of Northern Water Tribe spirit water.

Five hundred units of glassware and the grape wine stored in them, made from the city of Liqian.

Twenty hundred jin of dried White Dragon Bush.

Fifty of the newest war machines and five thousand suits of armor, all made by Future Industries.

Ten thousand curved swords forged in the Fire Nation.

One ink wash painting made by the White Scholar.

The minister sighed heavily as he finished reading the extensive list of confiscated goods. He couldn't help but commend anyone who would willingly examine such a detailed record of corruption. However, he knew that the true extent of He Shen's illicit wealth likely surpassed even what was listed on the parchment.

"Everything on this list rivals fifteen years of royal revenue," the minister remarked, his astonishment thinly veiled. "Even a child would understand that a chancellor cannot amass such unprecedented wealth through normal means of state payment, not even in two hundred years." He paused, expression grave. Aristocrats across the Earth Kingdom have always had a well-deserved reputation for corruption. But He Shen is not the cause. He is merely a symptom of a system that allows such greed to flourish. During the Dowager's reign, gaining favor with the monarch held more value than merit to the state."

"It is not a crime to accumulate wealth," the minister continued, his voice tinged with a hint of warning. "But surely, a learned official such as yourself understands the consequences for those who disrespect Ba Sing Se's authority. Not even the Dowager herself would have spared you if she were still among the living. Your efforts to curry favor with her late majesty even surpassed those of courtiers in Omashu, a fact I can personally attest to."

He Shen remained intentionally speechless, still denying his involvement to the bitter end. However, what the minister said next left him gaping in shock.

"To rectify this blatant obstruction to the state's recent projects," the minister announced, "I have decided to confiscate all of your estates and mansions in the Upper and Middle Ring. Additionally, all bank branches and pawnbroker branches under your name shall be placed under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Revenue." He paused briefly before delivering the final blow. "Most importantly, your twelve thousand acres of land within the Agrarian Zone shall be given to the new Ministry of Canals."

"Twelve thousand acres!?" He Shen roared in rage, his voice echoing through the room. "Those lands were bestowed upon our family by Earth King Kuei! How dare you deprive us of our custodianship! The heavens and earth will not forgive you for this transgression! My ancestors have served the throne well! How dare you dishonor the descendant of some of Ba Sing Se's greatest ministers and advisors!"

The minister remained unmoved by He Shen's outburst.

"Oh, my dear He Shen," he said coolly. "Would you perhaps like to explain why you procured so many weapons from outside Ba Sing Se?" His tone was almost conversational, as if discussing the weather. "Usually, a rebellion cannot succeed without a considerable number of weapons. Sourcing such supplies locally would attract attention, so one must look afar, even across the sea to find possible benefactors. The key, of course, is not to be discovered."

A single drop of sweat trailed across He Shen's forehead. Secretly procuring weapons and equipment from outside one's state without official permission can be seen as extremely suspicious. In most cases, being caught with such items alone can guarantee execution. While the Hundred Year War has been long over, only the fools of all fools would bathe in the illusion of peace between the Four Nations.

"You are bold and villainous!" He Shen pointed an accusatory finger at the minister. "I bet none of this has anything to do with treason or rebellion against the state. All you ever wanted is that twelve thousand acres of land bestowed by the sovereign!"

"Don't forget the estates, mansions, as well as all your bank and pawnbroker branches across the city," the minister added casually.

"Shameless display!" He Shen instantly exclaimed. He picked up a porcelain vase and smashed it to the floor. But none of this ever intimidated the relaxed minister, who enjoyed another cup of wine. "My ancestors has made so much contributions to the throne, how dare people like you squander the royal legacy!"

The minister placed the cup on the table, finding He Shen's feasible attempt to riposte to be rather ironic. In any functioning state, no leeway shall be given. Harsh punishments are naturally necessary to maintain order, regardless of a person's status. Nobles or peasants, the law shall be applied equally.

"In the service of the throne, you've amassed a tally of at least twenty-five crimes," the minister declared, his words hanging heavy in the air as He Shen's anger simmered just beneath the surface, threatening to erupt at any moment. "I could delve into the specifics of your embezzlements, but I trust you're intimately acquainted with them. However, I am a merciful minister. Any family members innocent of your transgressions will be spared."

He Shen's lip curled in a snarl, his teeth grinding together with barely contained fury. Just as the minister began to rise from his seat, preparing to make his exit, the estate owner's voice pierced the tense atmosphere.

"Bold of you to assume you'll leave this room intact, gentlemen. Dismember him!"

The four attendants stood frozen, caught in the grip of fear, much to He Shen's bewilderment.

"What are you waiting for?" he barked. "Dispatch this vermin!"

Silence enveloped the room, broken only by the gentle patter of rain outside. The attendants trembled visibly, one even dropping the dao in his trembling hands.

"It seems your servants are quite obedient," the minister remarked, a wicked gleam in his eye. "More dependable than your own kin, it appears. Unlike their treacherous master, these young men understood the perils of rebellion early on. The mere notion of treason can prove... hazardous. Having one's body torn asunder by chariots is by no means a comfortable experience."

He Shen's breath quickened, refusing to cower before a Ba Sing Se minister who lacked even a weapon.

"Don't presume too much!" He Shen retorted, bolting from the room with the intent to rally his armed servants and permanently silence the overbearing minister. But as he stepped into the rainy courtyard, he was met with an unsettling sight. The lanterns and torches had all been extinguished. The once-hidden bodyguards were nowhere to be seen in the pitch-black outdoor expanse.

A sudden flash of lightning illuminated the courtyard, revealing six figures seated on wooden chairs. Their lifeless gazes bore into He Shen, each one a familiar face. They were officials and military members, all of whom had benefited from He Shen's favor during the reign of the Queen Dowager. Like him, they couldn't resist the allure of wealth and indulgence.

"My apprentice keeps himself occupied," the minister remarked as he joined He Shen in the courtyard. "Sometimes I worry he is overworking himself. As you're likely aware, our great city faces a challenge from outside heterodox beliefs seeking to disrupt the harmony. But just because we're preoccupied with a cult created unsophisticated herders, it doesn't mean we've forgotten about the likes of you."

The front gate of the estate exploded open, admitting a battalion of Ba Sing Se soldiers wielding swords and spears. Their lanterns cast a harsh light over the courtyard, revealing the grim scene that awaited them. He Shen's heart sank as he took in the sight of countless bodies strewn across the rain-soaked ground. Puddles of blood mingled with the downpour, a testament to the fierce struggle that had taken place.

Among the fallen were over a hundred hired bodyguards, each one a seasoned martial artist with ties to the grueling underworld of Ba Sing Se. The realization that his last line of defense had been so brutally dismantled sent a chill down He Shen's spine. Hiring even one of these skilled fighters would have cost him a small fortune, and now they lay motionless, their services bought in vain.

Despair washed over He Shen as the soldiers swiftly began to search the estate, kicking in doors and scouring every corner of the mansion grounds. Unlike the silent assassin who had dispatched his attendants with deadly precision, these soldiers were brazen in their approach, their armor gleaming in the lantern light as they tore through the property.

Panic swept through the residence as regular servants, roused from their rest, darted behind paper windows at the sight of the invading soldiers. Shouts and screams reverberated through the sprawling estate, each cry a hammer blow to He Shen's fraying sanity as the soldiers combed through every nook and cranny.

The household servants, from personal maids to cooks, were the first to be herded into the courtyard, their faces etched with fear as they clustered together, casting wary glances at the fallen hired swords.

He Shen's resolve wavered as his own family was forcibly escorted from their rooms. Though the soldiers were rough, they at least allowed He Shen's relatives to gather at their own pace. His main wife and three concubines moved slowly, supported by their personal maids, their delicate hands trembling as they navigated with careful steps. The children, wide-eyed and innocent, clung to their mothers, young minds struggling to comprehend the chaos unfolding around them.

"What is the meaning of this?" demanded the head lady of the estate, her voice carrying a steely edge that belied her status as a defenseless member of the gentry. Unlike He Shen, she maintained a facade of composure, her gaze unwavering as she confronted the armored soldiers and the minister. "Our eldest child is married into the royal family. While I understand such trivial matters may mean little to individuals of your caliber, it is imperative that you provide a valid explanation for this invasion of our home."

As if on cue, a group of soldiers emerged from one of the buildings, claiming to have discovered crates hidden beneath the nursery beds, much to the surprise of those present. The minister observed the main wife and concubines closely, noting their lack of alarm, which spoke volumes. He Shen's anxiety was more palpable, his forehead glistening with sweat as he awaited the inevitable.

"Open them," the minister ordered, his voice cutting through the tense atmosphere.

With a swift motion, the soldiers pried open the crates, revealing an array of blades adorned with red tassels. Among them are letters from distant lands, glaring evidence of communication beyond the borders of Ba Sing Se, and even outside the continent itself.

The minister examined the craftsmanship of the blades, noting their quality with a hint of admiration. In a land where natural ores are scarce, the skill of the blacksmiths spoke volumes about their resourcefulness, especially when controlling fire.

"Not bad," he remarked, tossing a question to the head lady of the estate, who claimed ignorance of the weapons' existence.

The discovery of foreign weapons within He Shen's secluded estate only added to the mounting evidence against him. In a nation torn by internal strife, it was not uncommon for outsiders to meddle in its affairs, fueling the flames of conflict from across the seas.

A tiny smile played across the minister's lips as he gazed at He Shen. "Subdue him," he ordered calmly.

The nearby soldiers wasted no time in obeying, swiftly apprehending He Shen and forcing him to his knees. With practiced efficiency, they produced a cangue, a flat board of seasoned wood with holes for the neck and wrists. Divided into two pieces, they opened it and locked He Shen's head and arms in place. Though He Shen lacked the ability to bend earth, the use of this iconic tool of restraint carried its own advantages, one of which is public humiliation.

"It's a pity the city slumbers peacefully tonight," the minister lamented. "I had envisioned a grand procession from the Agrarian Zone all the way to the Upper Ring in your honor." His tone softened slightly as he noticed He Shen's dread at the prospect of treasonous punishment. "But fret not, my dear He Shen. You won't meet your end immediately, at least not tonight."

He Shen's heart sank as the minister leisurely strolled over to the motionless figures seated on chairs. With a gentle nudge, one of them toppled sideways, landing face-first on the granite floor. It is a stark reminder of the fate that awaited those who dared to dabble in treason.

"Unlike my apprentice, I am somewhat more lenient," the minister remarked. "While I had hoped your family members would take the initiative and denounce your treachery, I see no reason to implicate them. After all, they have yet to commit any crimes themselves."

As the family members and household servants huddled closer, shielding the children from the ominous presence of the law enforcement, they couldn't help but feel a sense of relief at the mercy shown in He Shen's solitary capture.

In the Earth Kingdom, the sanctity of family is a fundamental value ingrained in the very fabric of society. The teachings of the Earth Sages emphasized the importance of familial bonds, shaping the daily functions of the state. When an official was accused of treason, whether rightfully or wrongfully, the repercussions extended beyond the individual to encompass their entire kin. Collective punishment was not uncommon, entire clans and their servants in the Upper Ring could vanish overnight, their very existence erased from memory. Arranged marriages with disgraced households were annulled, and speaking of them became a taboo borne out of fear. When certain people are mocked for remaining quiet in Ba Sing Se, that is because the louds ones died first.

The minister produced a parchment from his sleeve, presenting it to He Shen's eight-year-old son, the eldest heir. Naturally, the head lady of the household would examine its contents, it was clear that the document held significant weight. It bore an official edict from the Upper Ring, stipulating that He Shen's eldest son would inherit what little remained of the family's property, a meager sum compared to the ill-gotten wealth amassed through state robbery.

"I assume there are no objections," the minister stated, casting a glance at the assembled family members and servants. It was clear that voicing dissent is not an option, not with the specter of arrest looming large and the grim reminder of the bodies scattered throughout the estate.

A solitary pebble hurled towards the minister's face, but he effortlessly caught it with two fingers, his expression unchanged.

"Give me back my dad!" the child cried out, his voice trembling with defiance. "He's innocent! And when I'm older, I'll make you pay!"

The head lady rushed to apologize for her son's outburst, her voice strained with panic as she attempted to defuse the situation.

"Quiet, child!" she hissed, her eyes wide with fear.

The family and servants watched in silent distress, fearful of the consequences that awaited those who dared to challenge the state. Yet, to their surprise, the minister chuckled lightly at the child's display of courage.

"A spirited one, indeed," he remarked, his tone almost amused. "I'm intrigued to see how you'll serve Ba Sing Se when you come of age."

The head lady struggled to mask her dread. The state might show leniency to a child, but an adult would not receive the same mercy.

"Your Excellency," she said, bowing swiftly to the minister. "I will do everything in my power to nurture my son until he can be of great service to the city."

"Correct," the minister mused. "For your son's sake, I hope you won't fail."

The soldiers then began escorting He Shen toward the estate door. He wasn't even permitted to depart in a carriage, a courtesy typically afforded to a member of the gentry. The rest of the household could only watch helplessly as their patriarch was unceremoniously taken away, his silken robe discarded on the ground.

As the minister and the remaining soldiers headed for the entrance, the former suddenly turned back. "Forgive my rudeness, I nearly forgot something."

The leader of the platoon inquired about the minister's intentions, which immediately drew the latter's ire.

"You may be a member of the military, but your lack of manners is quite disappointing," the minister admonished, his tone sharp and unforgiving. "Do you expect these esteemed ladies to clean up the courtyard after you and your men have made such a mess?"

The platoon leader looked bewildered. "But, Your Excellency, my men and I didn't kill He Shen's men. The one who did it was a Dai—"

He cut himself off abruptly, realizing his blunder. With a terse nod, he signaled his subordinates to remove the bodies from the estate. They worked swiftly, even scrubbing the bloodstains from the walls that the rain had failed to wash away.

Some of the mothers shielded their children's eyes from the gruesome scene. Only the eldest son watched, unflinching and unafraid of the corpses.

Satisfied with the soldiers' efficiency, the minister instructed a household servant to close the door of the walled manor once they departed.

"I apologize for this unfortunate disturbance," the minister said sincerely to the remaining residents. "I shall take my leave now. Please, continue your rest as if nothing has happened." He then added a few final words, barely audible as the household servant shut the entrance gate. "For all your sake."

End of Chapter Notes:

-For the sake of this story, we will assume 1 li as 0.5 kilometers or 0.311 miles.

-1 jin is equal to 0.5 kilograms.

-A Tulou is a large earthen building that resembles a circular fortress. The existence of these massive residence can be traced to the five migratory waves of Hakka refugees fleeing from the north due to various conflicts.

-Raccoon dogs are not part of the Avatar canon, they are real.