Guards of the Khan

Satchiko caressed the thick and shaggy fur of the Sky-Bison. Every time her fingers rushed through the animal's gentle wool, the skin can indulge in this luxurious embrace. Describing it as merely comfortable would be an understatement. Making clothing from this fur may bring a cocoon of comfort rivaling the sensation of silk.

"It's just so soft!" she exclaimed, complimenting the giant creature.

The beast responded with an amicable roar, indicating its approval of the girl's statement. While Satchiko wasn't sure whether these beasts could understand human language, she is certain that they can at least sense friendliness.

"Their fur is more valuable than gold," the one named Ganbaatar said in a rather coarse tone. He limped over to the young Kyoshi warrior, unable to walk due to the leg wound. Despite the leg pain and dialectal difference, the middle-aged man tried his best to explain this Sky-Bison, which is named Takhi.

Judging by his clothing, it is obvious that these people use the fur of Sky-Bison as a crafting material. There is a clear dependence. Not all people in the Earth Kingdom live a sedentary lifestyle.

Ganbaatar suddenly hissed in pain.

"Curse that witch!" Ganbaatar ranted bitterly. "I just got this armor repaired!" Ridden in annoyance rather than dread, he is more concerned the damage to his lamellar suit rather than his actual flesh.

"You ok?" Satchiko cannot help but inquire.

Ganbaatar reassured that his injury is trivial. He extracted debris from his leg and wiped away excess blood with a dirty cloth. This lack of care for his own health is quite a surprise.

Not wishing to remain idle, Satchiko went to assist the others. There are many injured people, most of which are impaled with shards of ice. It is rather incredible that no one has actually died from this encounter.

She watched as a tall warrior carried a man in armor to one of the Sky-Bisons nearby. Trying to mimic this, Satchiko approached a warrior resting under a tree. His dented helmet and damaged lamellar armor indicated the severity of the trauma. appears to be slightly drowsy.

"K-Khen-bish?" Satchiko struggled with the name pronunciation.

"That's me! Ow!" Khenbish's hand shot to his forehead as a sudden headache hit him.

"Don't worry, I'll help you get to that Sky-Bison named... Tahki, over there," Satchiko said reassuringly.

Khenbish looked confused. He is a grown adult, much heavier while wearing heavy armor. He emphasized the absurdity for someone like her to carry so much weight.

"Well, I can still try," Satchiko suggested earnestly. "It's the least I can do since your people saved us."

The Kyoshi warrior attempted to carry the injured warrior on the back. This short little attempted immediately ended as she stumbled over, accidentally dropping Khenbish to the ground.

Khenbish winced in pain. His headache intensified. "What did I do to deserve this? I'm just a nobody."

Satchiko immediately apologized. Luckily, another man in brown deel hurried over to help. She watched while acknowledging her smaller stature and unrealistic expectations. There was a sense of helplessness. While a Kyoshi Warrior never relies on physical strength, the inadequacy when fighting against the Waterbender have proven to be a humbling experience. They are indeed fortunate that Batu's people are nearby to provide assistance.

"By the way," Khenbish said while being carried away. "Thank you for saving my son."

Satchiko simply nodded in courtesy to these strangers. Unsure what other tasks are available, she looked to Mayumi, who is conversing with the heavily armored warrior. It seems that they are intending to reach some sort of compromise. Yet, she can also detect slight disagreements. Perhaps her sister may divulge the details later.

She placed a hand over the left wrist, which is now bandaged. Luckily, the cut wasn't deep. Satchiko can still hold the two metal fans and wield it effectively. It was terrifying watching Mayumi being controlled by a power beyond their understanding. If a Kyoshi Warrior lose even one of her hands, then she may no longer be capable in utilizing their people's marital art.

Mayumi arrived shortly after conversing with the presumably leader. She checked the bandaged wound. "Does it hurt?"

Satchiko assured that no harm was done. They both understand that the fanatical Waterbender can somehow manipulate the limbs of others, forcing them to act against their will. Despite this, Mayumi still apologized.

"I'm sorry I couldn't protect you," she said.

"It's fine." Satchiko suddenly hugged Mayumi. The latter simply reciprocated.

The other warriors were busy collecting their weapons and sorting through the aftermath of battle. Occasionally, Satchiko overheard conversations expressing disdain and fear towards the Waterbender's power. Her gaze shifted to Shui's lifeless body, which still managed to send shivers down the spine. They still do not understand this power which can exert control over the flesh of others. Her shock remains as even Mayumi cannot explain this unparalleled display of sorcery.

Then there is Huo, still unconscious from the fight. Ironically, she is now tied up using the same rope that is supposed to restrain Satchiko.

"Wait," Satchiko suddenly said with a worried expression. She had almost forgotten about someone. "There's another one in the forest somewhere, he bends air too."

The nearby warriors tensed at her words. They had just emerged from a tough battle, and the idea of facing yet another powerful adversary weighed on them.

"No need to worry about him," Ganbaatar boasted. He limped towards them, demonstrating no concern at all. "If he is still around, he would have stepped out to help his fellows. I bet he must have escaped after seeing his little friends dropped like flies!"

The other nomads in fur laughed too. A type of overconfidence that the two Kyoshi Warriors do not share.

"Alright, I think that is enough for our little jest." Ganbaatar recomposed. "We will leave the celebrations back at camp, all of you, get on."

All everyone began to climb the giant beasts, Satchiko waited for Mayumi's instructions.

"You two, don't just stand there. Get on!" Ganbaatar called out.

Satchiko exchanged a glance with Mayumi, silently seeking her sister's input on whether they should accept the invitation to join their camp. They had initially declined Batu's offer, but the circumstances had changed. They could perhaps ask these people to take them to Ba Sing Se and hopefully provide them with supplies, maybe even food.

Her stomach rumbled loudly, seemingly offering its own answer.

"Let's go," said Mayumi. "Even if they don't agree to help us get to Ba Sing Se, they would at least assist in our journey to the next town. The monks are still trying to find an Avatar nearby."

Both sisters carefully boarded the Sky-Bison named Tahki.

At first, Satchiko felt uneasy. She is still slightly unconvinced that these giant creatures can actually fly. The warriors on the large saddle are surprised by their climbing agility. After seating themselves, the one named Ganbaatar prepared to use the harness.

"And be gentle, alright?" Khenbish added nervously as he secured himself. "Not just for my sake. I don't think these have been on Tahki before."

Ganbaatar laughed in a boisterous manner. "As gentle as a feather!" Without warning, the giant beast suddenly lifted off, ascending to the sky before the two Kyoshi Warriors can even mentally ready themselves.

Satchiko and Mayumi held onto the saddle tightly, afraid for their lives. The younger sister almost screamed. It was a mistake to look downward.

Despite this initial worry, the fear gradually diminished, replaced with a thrill unlike any other. It is also an experience that most cannot enjoy. If they have never left the island, they might never understand the freedom of flying through the skies itself.

"Look, there is our Khan!" Someone next to them said.

The two Kyoshi Warrior naturally looked at the direction in question. Satchiko realized that the 'Khan' is the heavily armored warrior that defeated the Acolytes of San Bao. He is standing on a heavily scarred Sky-Bison, a testament to its history of conflict. They are both hovering over the beautiful scenery, shadowing the pristine lake waters.

"What is he doing?" Satchiko noticed that the Khan is drawing out a composite bow. The arrow is attached with a small clay jar. A foul smell suddenly permeates the atmosphere. "It stinks so much!" She complained.

"Sheesh!" Khenbish covered his mouth. "I will never get use to that thing!"

Before Mayumi can seek an explanation. The bow creaked and let loose the arrow. Immediately, the bodies of the two dead acolytes are engulfed in flames. They burned and withered. As Ganbaatar relished at this sight, the two Kyoshi Warriors watched with grimace.

The older sister quietly shook her head at Satchiko, implying silence despite this disturbing display of desecration. This did not stop Satchiko's forehead from sweating profusely.

"You alright? You seem... pale?"

Ganbaatar's harmless question almost spooked Satchiko, who quickly lied by stating that hunger is her main problem. Reassurances about roasted meat, roasted rib and fermented milk failed to calm her down.

Although Ganbaatar is easily convinced by the Kyoshi Warrior's excuse, the two sisters noticed Khenbish, lifting a finger to his mouth in a silent shushing motion.

...

The sights from above the clouds are simply breathtaking.

All the tall and insurmountable mountains felt like little dunes on the ground. It felt as if the whole world lies before them, and their eyes can look at its edges.

The Sky-Bisons lowered themselves, gradually descending to the earth.

"We've arrived," Ganbaatar announced with a tired expression. Others awoke from their slumber, preparing to hop of this giant flying beast.

From their vantage point, Satchiko and Mayumi can see countless yurt tents spreading across a large flat area near a river. Each painted in white, adorned with various decorative patterns and wooden doors. While not as spacious as the wooden lodges they are normally used to, these tents seem to offer adequate living spaces.

These people are definitely nomads.

As they approached, residents looked up. Children in brown deel rushed out of their tents, waving cheerfully. The grass from the open pasture fluttered, stirred by the robust gusts of wind trailing from the landing Sky-Bisons. Warriors dismounted from their mounts, easing off the saddles.

Satchiko and Mayumi both gracefully jumped to the ground, each one reestablished their connection with the very essence of the earth. They looked around, noticing the herd of Sky-Bison grazing the grass and raising their young.

Satchiko felt a light sensation on her face, a gentle breeze followed by a quiet roar. Turning towards the source, she saw a baby Sky-Bison hovering above Tahki's head. The youngling appears playful and filled with energy. Showcasing its two tiny horns, it flew towards Satchiko.

Before Mayumi could intervene, the bison pounced onto Satchiko's stomach. But no harm was done. Instead, Satchiko is attacked by the ultimate display of cuteness, which can only be rivaled by the equally adorable baby Turtle-Ducks.

"This thing is so cute!" Satchiko exclaimed, slowly extending her hands to touch the baby Sky-Bison. Before that can even be accomplished, it licked her face.

Mayumi couldn't help but chuckle. Despite her serious mannerism, she cannot resist this misfortune. Saliva drenched over Satchiko's face paint, smearing it. Luckily, the juvenile creature understands Satchiko's intention. It rolled on its back, allowing the Kyoshi Warriors to rub its stomach.

"We shouldn't stay here too long," Ganbaatar reminded them. He relieved Tahki for the night, allowing his mount to rest and graze.

Ganbaatar supported the injured Khenbish, who cannot walk by himself. As the four of them began to navigate the maze of tents and people, Satchiko felt a tug on her shoe. Looking down, she saw the baby Sky-Bison chewing and holding onto her shoe. She knew it wanted more attention.

"Sorry, little buddy, maybe later. I must say, I would love to use you as a pillow!"

The juvenile creature whimpered in sadness as they left.

...

They walked through the bustling crowds of tents and people. Children chased each other in their fun little games of tags. Onlookers would occasionally cast curious glances at the two Kyoshi warriors behind Ganbaatar. While still going on with their tasks such as carrying hunted animals, wood and hay, they cannot help but watch the newcomers walking inside their camp. Nevertheless, they did not allow their interest hindering their labor. As to them, everything they do must ensure the survival of themselves and their families.

As they all walked on, a large square tent came into their view. Ganbaatar carried Khenbish towards it, slightly stumbling.

"Almost there," Ganbaatar said. He expended more energy, finally made it to the tent. A physician with long beard hurried over, helping Khenbish onto a bed. An array of medicine is used to suppress the tormenting headache.

Khenbish is soon given a walking stick.

"Rough day?" The physician asked in neutral tone. He is appalled by the terrible bandage on Ganbaatar's leg. Dark colored blood is already dripping out of the flesh, and there are even signs of swelling and inflammation. "Count yourself lucky, any later and I would need to cut your leg off entirely."

A new bandage is soon wrapped around Ganbaatar. The warrior marched around the room, testing its effectiveness. "Good as new!" he said. "Subutai, with you around, I don't need to be afraid even if my heart is pierced!"

The physician was not amused. "One day, your body will fail you!" He warned intently. "If you continue to damage it during battle, losing a limb would not be the worse that will happen. By that time, not even a Northern Water Tribe healer would suffice."

Ganbaatar laughed at this notion. While reckless, this non-bender demonstrated a carefree attitude. The Kyoshi Warriors nearby can only guess how long he can continue this lack of self-preservation.

The physician sighed hopelessly as his patient walked out of the tent. It's clear he has treated Ganbaatar many times before. Mayumi soon requested some herbs, which he emphasized can heal wound infections that may affect Satchiko's wrist.

"Where is he!?"

Before any of them can even react, a woman stormed into the tent, grabbing Khenbish by the ear, berating him.

"You got the nerve to get injured!" She yanked Khenbish painfully, forcing Subutai to intervene. "If you dare to die, I will kill you!"

Khenbish tried his best to calm his wife down. But the woman is relentless, others in the tent even chuckled with amusement.

After a good round of lecturing and reprimanding, the woman instantly switched to an amicable face to the two Kyoshi Warriors. She dropped Khenbish to the floor.

"Oh my, where are my manners? My name is Saran, please, join us at the feast!"

They followed her without question. Before they left completely, Satchiko gave Khenbish a sympathetic look.

"I will go afterwards," Khenbish said. "Oh, I almost forgot! Can you give this to my wife? My daughter might need this later." He held out a pouch with a bundle of flowers in it.

Satchiko examined it with interest, but unsure of its value.

"This, is the famed White Dragon Bush!" Khenbish proudly stated. "I just so happens to stumble across it when I knocked my head into the tree trunk from the battle today!" His voice was joyous. "Quite lucky, eh?"

Satchiko feigned her smile, trying to appear enthusiastic.

Khenbish proceeded to share some of the flowers, demonstrating gratitude for those who helped Batu.

"Oh my, thanks!" Satchiko politely replied. "Is this some sort of special medicine?"

"Oh no," Khenbish quickly clarified. "This is just some flowers used to boil tea."

Satchiko instantly thought about her father, who has a penchant for tea. After she walked out of the tent, Subutai cannot help but wonder if Khenbish has made a grave mistake.

"I hope that wasn't poison you just handed over," he said callously.

End of Chapter Note:

-The deel is a type of clothing worn by nomadic people.

-Originally, Khenbish was supposed to be a character that only exist for one sentence. He was literally a nobody.