Chapter 60: The Many Ceremonies

Widow was sitting in the grassy plain with the rest of the Earth Kingdom and Bending Tower. She was talking to her best friend, Raven - he was a dark black wolf, and was smaller than Widow, but the two had been best friends since they were pups.
"We're way better than The Bending Tower," Raven stated. "I mean, we're stronger, we have great warriors, and we're more populated than they are. No wonder they were desperate to get us to defeat the Firebenders, look at us!"
Widow giggled. "Agreed."
"Yeah, with me on their side, no Firebenders will touch us!" Raven boasted.
Widow nodded. "Yeah, we're trained better than they are."
"If a Firebender ever tried to hurt you, Widow, I'd make sure it wouldn't live to see another day," insisted Raven, sounding like hadn't heard Widow's last remark.
Widow was about to reply when a tiger-like animal on two legs ran up to Widow. "Ash! Hey, Ash!"
"Excuse me?" Widow cocked her head.
"Yeah, Ash! I gotta show you something!" the tiger exclaimed.
"Who are you?" Raven grumbled.
"It's me, Tiggerkat!" the tiger said. "Ash! Follow me!"
"I'm not Ash!" Widow protested. "Who's Ash?"
"You are! Did you hit your head?" Tiggerkat laughed.
"No, but I'll bet you did," Widow snorted.
Tiggerkat sighed. "Poor you, Ash. Guess I'll talk to you when you're sane." With that, Tiggerkat hopped away.
"Who in Lifebreeze's land was that?!" demanded Raven.
"I don't know! And why was she calling me 'Ash'? I don't even know an Ash!" Widow exclaimed.
"Widow! Widow!"
Widow turned to see Nyla running towards her. "What?" Widow growled.
Nyla ignored her hostility as always. "There's an animal here who looks just like you!"
"Really?" Raven snorted. "You sure?"
"Of course I am!" Nyla insisted. "Follow and I'll show you!"
"Fine," sighed Widow. What have I got to lose? Widow thought.
Nyla then started walking, and Widow, exchanging looks with Raven, followed, the soft grass brushing her paws. Raven followed close to Widow, looking curious as to what Nyla had found. Widow had to agree; was Nyla just pulling her leg? Then again, Nyla didn't ever pull pranks before.
"Right here!" said Nyla, stopping, nodding in a direction.
Widow looked and her eyes widened; Nyla was right. A male wolf who looked exactly like Widow was sitting down, talking to a Dalmatian. Pretty much the only difference between the two were their eye colors - this wolf's eyes were blue, whereas Widow's were green.
"Who is he?" Raven growled.
"I don't know, but I don't know why we look alike," Widow grumbled.
"Me neither," Nyla shook her head. "What do you think it is?"
"Well, it can't be coincidence..." Widow muttered.


"I'm telling you, Ash, there's a wolf here who looks identical to you," Spots insisted.
"I know, I saw her," Ash sighed.
"And by the looks of things, she knows you're here, too," Spots nodded.
Ash turned to where Spots was looking; the look-alike, Widow, was standing next to the black wolf Raven who Ash had seen with her previously, along with a Border Collie. Widow looked right at Ash but then quickly turned to Raven and muttered something to him, and Raven nodded something back, glaring at Ash. The Border Collie just studied Ash with interest.
"Geez, what's his problem?" demanded Spots, seeing Raven's glaring.
"Don't know," Ash shook his head. "The Earth Kingdom don't trust others well I think."
"D'you know why she looks like you?" Spots asked.
"Nope," Ash said. "It's probably coincidence, I mean, what other reason is there?"
"She could be like, your cousin or something," Spots suggested.
"I don't think my parents had siblings," Ash muttered. They probably would've told me.
Then, Quake walked up to Ash, and Spots flinched at the gorilla's size; it was true that Quake looked quite intimidating, but Quake wasn't very scary for real, he was mostly just a loyal Earthbender, and would only hurt an enemy, not any animal on his side.
"I need to call a meeting and elect my deputy," Quake said.
"That's fine," Ash shrugged.
"Earthbenders! Gather!" Quake bellowed. "Oh yeah," he whispered, as if remembering something. "Bending Tower too, I guess!" he added.
Everyone gathered in front of Quake and Ash - who were they only two leaders in the group of Benders.
"Those of you in the Earth Kingdom - and that Bending Tower patrol - know that Dusk died. So did Nota."
With this, there came a grief-filled silence from the patrol and the Earth Kingdom, but The Bending Tower only exchanged confused looks and didn't look very sympathetic, as they didn't know who Dusk or Nota were; Ash didn't either, but tried to look sorry for the Earth Kingdom.
"Because of this, I became leader and I must elect a second-in-command, or deputy of the Prospering Earth," Quake said.
"What?" Ash whispered.
Quake turned to Ash. "Um, Prospering Earth. You know, what made us the Earth Kingdom," Quake replied, giving Ash a look as if he had two heads. Quake then turned back to the crowd and made his voice louder. "I have thought about this decision and decided who the new deputy will be."
There was a silence, and Ash could detect the tension from the Earth Kingdom..
"Our new deputy," Quake said, "shall be Raven."
The Earthbenders broke into murmurs. Ash looked at Raven, and Widow was standing next to him, face absolutely full of joy for her friend. Then the Earthbenders began cheering - all except, Ash noticed, a darker black wolf who looked like he could possibly be Raven's father.
Ash then saw Widow exclaim something and nuzzle Raven, beaming at him. Raven returned with a smile and walked up towards Quake, with howls of approval ringing loud and clear from the Earthbenders. Some animals of The Bending Tower joined in to try and be polite.
"Thanks," Raven nodded, standing next to Quake. "It...it is truly an honor to become deputy. I hope one day to be able to lead the Earth Kingdom to its glory, in which the Earth Kingdom will never have to be controlled by the Fire Nation ever again."
With this, the Earth Kingdom cheered louder, but Ash studied Raven curiously - the speech Raven made sounded a bit disrespectful, as if saying he could do a way better job than how their former leader had, but no one else seemed to have noticed. Raven saw Ash looking at him and gave Ash a glare once more, before turning back to the crowd with a nod.
What is his problem? Ash wondered.
Raven then returned to sit back with Widow, who began talking to him rapidly as he sat back down, and Quake turned to Ash. "Anything you need to say before we end the meeting?" he asked.
"Oh - as a matter of fact, yeah," Ash nodded. He then cleared his throat and said loudly, to make himself heard, "We need to have three new apprentices. Streak, Nzuri and Patch--"
With this, the three kits yelled out with delight, only to be hushed by Rainbow, who looked full of pride.
"They have shown that they are ready to become apprentices, and each will be mentored by one of our own Benders. Streak, which Bender do you want to be?"
"Earthbender!" Streak said, literally shaking with excitement.
Ash then scanned some of the Earthbenders. He first looked at Stone, who was laying down next to Darner, who was whispering something to her. No, not Stone... Ash then looked at River. Nah...I need to give a younger Bender a chance. Then, Ash's eyes laid on Raoul. He'll be perfect - Streak will be his first apprentice, then.
"Streak, your mentor will be Raoul - Raoul has proven himself a great Bender, and will teach you well." Ash nodded.
Streak nodded, eyes big and mouth in a grin, and ran over to Raoul - he fell down, but quickly recovered - and, looking embarrassed as animals around giggled in amusement, sat next to Raoul, and Raoul smiled down at his new apprentice.
"Nzuri, what Bender do you want to be?"
"Airbender," Nzuri replied steadily, as if showing she was way more mature than Streak.
"Alright," Ash nodded, and began scanning some of the Airbenders...No, not Light, she would never have enough patience to mentor an apprentice yet...not Charlotte, she was already training Leafy...Ash then looked at Slice. Perfect.
"Nzuri, your mentor will be Slice - Slice, although underestimated when she arrived as a loner, has proven herself to be truly worthy of being a Bender in The Bending Tower. Slice, teach Nzuri well," Ash said.
Nzuri trotted calmly towards Slice, eyeing Streak as if saying, "THIS is how it's done", and sat down besides Slice, and Slice smiled at her. Miguel, sitting beside, Slice, nodded encouragingly.
"Patch, what Bender do you want to be?" Ash asked.
"W-Waterbender," Patch squeaked, looking very nervous.
Ash then began scanning the Waterbenders, trying to decide. Shell...Eris...Clover...Twister. Twister would be perfect for the job.
"Patch, your mentor will be Twister," Ash said. "Twister is a very intelligent and quick Bender, I am sure Patch would love to learn a few things from her."
Twister smiled at Ash, mouthed "thank you", and turned to look at Patch, who trotted up to Twister nervously and then sat down next to Twister.
"Mind if I do another ceremony first?" Ash whispered to Quake.
"Not at all," Quake shook his head. "We've waited for millions of moons until this rebellion, it won't hurt to wait a bit longer." He smiled at Ash.
Ash nodded, then turned back to the crowd. "I also have another ceremony to do. Nightgale, Kirin and Stella."
The three she-wolves stepped forward to come in front of Ash.
"Nightgale, Stella and Kirin are ready to become full Benders," Ash announced. He then closed his eyes. Please remember the ceremony. But, the words quickly came back to him, and he remembered them. I'll make Nightgale a full Healer first, Ash decided. "Peacebenders, hear my words as I make Nightgale into a full Healer. She has worked hard to understand the ways of healing, and is ready to take her turn to become a full Healer. Nightgale, do you agree that you are ready to be a Healer, and that you can take on all of the responsibilities of healing the sick and t tending to injuries?"
"Yes," Nightgale nodded determinedly.
"Then with the help of the Peacebenders, you may get your wish. Nightgale, when I tap your head, the Peacebenders' powers will make you wiser, quicker, and a better Healer." Ash tapped Nightgale on the head, waited a few moments as Nightgale grew round-eyed, experiencing how the Peacebenders' magic worked - and then Ash spoke again.
"Nightgale, you are now officially a full Healer. Welcome Nightgale."
Ash then turned to do Stella and Kirin. "Peacebenders, hear my words as I make Stella and Kirin into full Benders..."

Author's Note:
Sorry for the sudden ending, the chapter was getting too long.
Check the new Misitu's Art Central post and my new story. >:U
Also, I updated the Meet the Benders page (obviously).
And why am I not getting as much comments as I used to anyway? ouo
Then again, everyone's probably vacationing. 

Chapter 59: After the Breakout

"So, how do we get to the Air Temples?"
Ash was sitting with Quake, Rusty, Nightgale and Eclipse, far from the collapsed Earth Kingdom. They had travelled far enough that there was no more desert and it was a grassy plain; beyond was a small beach by the ocean. The other animals of The Bending Tower and Earth Kingdom were having fun, talking and some of the younger ones were playing in the ocean. Ash figured it'd be best to meet with each other and discuss plans. With the help of Rusty, Eclipse and Nightgale, Ash explained to Quake - who said he was leader of the Earth Kingdom - about their plan.
"The Air Temples are in the mountains," Quake explained, "they're perched high up, near the sky. They have rope bridges to get to them, but there are guards at every bridge."
"So we'll need a plan to get past the guards," Rusty nodded.
Quake shook his head. "We don't. The Air Temples' residents are all civilians of the war. All they do is study prophecies and the history of the land and Bending and all. Legend has it that when the groups of Benders were made, the founder of the Air Temples called upon the smartest animals to live at the Air Temples."
"Um...so they don't fight at all?" Rusty cocked his head.
"Nope," Quake shook his head.
"Should we set off, then?" Eclipse suggested.
"We need to rest," Ash pointed out. "Give it a few days."
"Alright then," Eclipse shrugged.
"I'm going to go talk to Slice," Nightgale said, walking away.
Eclipse walked away and so did Quake, leaving Ash by himself. He looked at the Earth Kingdom animals. They all seemed less playful and more quiet than The Bending Tower animals were being at the moment. Some of them were talking in small groups, murmuring. Others were laying down, napping, or sitting there by themself, looking lost in thought.
Ash's eyes then laid on his look-alike; she hadn't taken notice of him, and was busy talking to a dark black male wolf. Why did Ash and her look so alike? It couldn't be coincidence.
"Hey Ash!"
Ash turned around to see Airia walking up to him. She looked at the look-alike. "Who's that?" she asked.
"I dunno," Ash mumbled.
"Really? She looks just like you," Airia said.
"I know," Ash nodded. "But I don't know who she is."
Airia then turned and looked off, and turned back to Ash. "Streak looks somewhat upset." She pointed in Streak's direction with her tail.
Ash looked; indeed, Streak looked upset. Instead of playing with Nzuri and Patch - who were both play-fighting - he was laying down, head on his paws.
"Yeah, he is," Ash agreed.
"I mean, he looks really upset," Airia said, giving Ash a look.
"Uh...I said he is," Ash responded.
"Really upset," Airia repeated, giving him a sharper look.
"Uh..." Ash began. Oh. She wanted him to talk to Streak. "Why do you want me to talk to him?"
"He could use it," Airia shrugged. "I mean, you talked to...Airwing, when you were upset before."
"Yeah, but Airwing gave wise advice. What do I know? I'm probably one of the youngest leaders," Ash muttered.
"You're a leader," Airia pointed out, smiling, making Ash feel nervous. "Just go talk to him." She then walked off.
Ash sighed, and shook his head. He then walked over to Streak. "Um...what's up?"
Streak looked up. "Cinder's dead," he grumbled
"Yeah, she is..." Ash nodded slowly.
"You're not helping," Streak muttered.
Ash shook his head. "I'm not trying to make you more upset. But, that's just a fact of life. Animals live, and then they die. But they still live on in you. My parents are dead, Streak, but they've visited me before in my dreams. And maybe Cinder will do the same for you, give you a scoop on what she's up to."
Streak sighed. "I'll still miss her."
"I know you will," Ash said, "but don't put energy into grieving; put it into what could be used today. For example...I'm sure you can show Patch and Nzuri a thing or two about fighting."
Streak looked up and towards Patch and Nzuri, who were rolling over each other, pawing at each other.
"You're right," Streak murmured, getting up. He padded over to his siblings.
Airia then walked over. "You must've done a good job."
"I guess so," Ash shrugged, seeing Streak was now pouncing onto Patch, Nzuri laughing.
"I know how he feels though," Airia murmured, head hanging low.
"Yeah, but Goldwing and Airwing still watch over you," Ash pointed out.
Airia sighed. "It's not exactly that...but...just nevermind," Airia muttered, walking away.

Author's Note:
Hmm.
Hmm, everyone, hmm.
Also, check the new Misitu's Art Central post, it's TFEOB-related so I want all readers to see it. c:
And Jenny I think you'll enjoy that post too. :3
Sorry this chapter isn't action-y. Or very long. Or in Raoul's point of view. ouo
Also, I updated the Fan Art and Meet the Benders page.
Long author's note is long.

Chapter 58: Breaking Out

Nighttime came quickly. The patrol had huddled around Windows's limp body in silence, paying their respects to him. But the warriors ignored them. Instead they spent their time pacing around and talking, sharing mixed feelings about Quake's plan to help free the Earth Kingdom.
"Finally, we'll be free!"
"The idiot! This will never work."
"Maybe I can kill Nuewfoow before slipping off."
Raoul, however, felt his brain was too crammed with taking everything in: so Quake was good. He wanted to set the Earth Kingdom free...for whatever reason he didn't tell Dusk about the plan...Windows was dead, he'd never see what the land would look like free from the Firebenders...
Pretty soon, the atmosphere of the crippled prison become high with tension. Now the patrol seemed to have forgotten Windows as well and were all pacing around worriedly along with the other warriors. Raoul stayed put on the floor, however, looking around. When exactly was this going to start, anyway? He was beginning to get impatient--
Suddenly, the earth began shaking again. Raoul covered his paws and ducked down. Quake was causing the next earthquake now...pretty soon the Earth Kingdom would be free, the job would be done, and Raoul and the others could return to  The Bending Tower, and they could set off again on their journey...Soon, Raoul kept telling himself, trying to calm the anxious feeling coming to the pit of his stomach.
Then, the earth stopped again, and Raoul could hear yelling and shouting from above, although Raoul didn't quite know what was going on above, whether it was Firebenders yelling or the Earthbenders moving.
Raoul then noticed that a black wolf ran down the steps into the prison. "Come on, let's move!" he exclaimed, "the Firebenders might come out soon, I'm sure even though they're partying they're suspicious of two earthquakes in one day!"
The patrol were the first ones to get to their feet and run towards the entrance. Nyla quickly followed, and then the warriors, more slowly, got up to come along as well.
"Quake's gonna do another earthquake soon!" said the black wolf. "So if the Firebenders come out they'll be trapped."
"Hello, Raven," grunted a darker black wolf, walking up to him.
"...Hello, father," returned the black wolf, apparently named Raven, narrowing his eyes.
However, the two did no more interactions as Raven lead the group of prisoners out of the room. At the top, was the Ash-look-alike Raoul had spotted at the court days ago. "Good! You're safe!" she exclaimed, running up to Raven. "Let's go, then."
Raoul then fell back to trot alongside Firefly. "Hey...what's gonna happen to the Earth Kingdom when they find that The Bending Tower is outside sitting there? Should we tell them our plan and ask to join now?"
Firefly shook his head. "We'll wait until we leave the Earth Kingdom."
Animals all around the group of prisoners were also darting around; they were running up to other animals and all running in different directions. They must be assembling others and getting their families together, Raoul guessed. Perhaps they're all meeting at the gates later.
And, just as Raven told them, another earthquake started, making the ground shake.
"To the entrance! Let's go!" exclaimed Raven, darting off faster. The Ash-look-alike darted after him, and the rest of the prisoners followed. A lot of the warriors were fast, but some were stiff with age, making them slower; Raoul and Firefly fell back beside Nota to help her.
"No, no, no," Caput came up to them. "I got her."
Nota nodded. "Thank you," she said, climbing onto Caput's back. He ran to catch up with the others.
"Caput must be strong," commented Firefly.
"Well...Nota's kind of scrawny," Raoul shrugged, running to catch up with the others, Firefly by his side.
The prisoners made it to the gates, and all stood there, waiting for the rest of the animals to show up. The earthquake stopped pretty soon, and this made the animals show up even more quickly. Seeing all of the animals together let Raoul see how populated the Earth Kingdom was. It's definitely the biggest home to Benders, Raoul thought.
Quake showed up last by himself. "Alright!" he bellowed, "let's g--"
"There they are!"
Indeed, the Firebenders had gotten suspicious - they had come as a group in the middle of their party to investigate, and came right to the gates. Raoul's mouth dropped. Oh no.
"Well, can't we fight them? The Earth Kingdom is the biggest--" Streak began.
"Second biggest!" growled Blade, standing next to Streak. "The Fire Nation is bigger!"
"Oh," Streak squeaked.
"What do we do?" Nyla asked Quake.
Quake glared at the Firebenders, then turned to the Earth Kingdom. "Everyone, run!" he yelled, smashing his fists to the ground, causing yet another earthquake.
The animals did as they were told; the gates opened and everyone ran inside. However, this earthquake seemed to be bigger than the last two Quake did. Raoul almost fell down from the shaking, struggling to get a grip and to keep running.
"Where's my sister?!" demanded Nota. "I'm not leaving her behind!"
"Nota! You know Dusk is growing loyal to the Firebenders!" Caput exclaimed.
Nota jumped off Caput's back. "I'll convince her," Nota insisted.
"Nota, it's too dangerous!" Caput growled. "Let Dusk choose her own fate."
"I don't even see Dusk anywhere!" Akumu yelled; her voice was muffled from Windows' body in her jaws.
"I'm right here!" said a voice.
Raoul felt something pin him to the ground.
"So!" hissed a voice into his ear. "I hear you all are from The Bending Tower?"
It was, indeed, Dusk.
"How--?" Raoul began.
"Dusk!" growled Nota. "Snap out of it! Your Kingdom is being torn down by the Firebenders! They tricked you into acting among them!"
Dusk released Raoul, and he scampered away from her. "My dear sister, the Firebenders are in control of this land. If we join them, who knows what we can accomplish?" Animals around the three of them were all still running, but Raoul stopped, trying to get in to convince Nota to keep running, but couldn't get a word in edgewise while the two sisters argued.
"Killing and torturing is not the way to lead the land!" Nota snarled
Dusk narrowed her eyes. "You were always jealous, Nota! You being my older sibling, you must think you deserve to be leader, do you? Well I earned it, and I deserve better!"
"HEY!" Raoul yelled, "Nota, are you coming or not?!"
"Not without Dusk I'm not!" Nota insisted.
"I told you, I've made up my mind!" Dusk growled. "Join me, Nota! Then you'll see what's good for you."
"I've fought Firebenders all my life, why should I stop now?" Nota snarled, baring her teeth.
Dusk then lunged at Nota. Raoul gasped, expecting Nota would be too old to run away, but Nota got away so quickly it appeared like she disappeared. Nota then stopped at Raoul's side. She narrowed her eyes. "You wanna fight, Dusk?" She got into a position. "Ready."
"Nota, she'll kill you!" Raoul gasped.
"I'm too old, Raoul, I would never live much longer anyway." She nuzzled Raoul. "You're a good one, Raoul. I hope you grow to be known as a great warrior as well. Now go," she turned to face Dusk. "I'll handle her."
Raoul's instinct told him to stay, but didn't want to be left behind; he could see the Firebenders running after the Earth Kingdom with determination. Raoul turned tail and ran to catch up with the everyone else. He turned to look back at Nota and Dusk; they were both fighting, and Dusk had Nota pinned to the ground, biting at her, Nota snarling at her sister.
"Raoul!" came a voice. Raoul looked ahead to see Cinder running up to him, dodging some falling rocks. "Where were you?! We thought you--"
"I'm okay," Raoul said reassuringly, "c'mon, we need to catch up to the patrol..."
They kept running alongside the Earth Kingdom animals, trying to find the patrol again. The Firebenders were beginning to catch up. Raoul had to jump over a rather big rock, trying not to slow himself down by stopping to go around it ("This is no time to be showing off!" Cinder had exclaimed).
Finally, the rest of the Earthbenders had approached the exit gate and began pouring through it. Finally, we're leaving! Raoul thought triumphantly.
"Where do you think you're going?!" spat a voice.
Raoul whipped around to see Dusk pinning Cinder's tail to the ground, preventing her from escaping. "Help!" she yelled out.
"Cinder!" exclaimed Streak's voice, and Raoul turned to see Streak had turned around and began running for her.
"I thought you were busy fighting Nota!" Raoul growled.
"I killed her," Dusk growled. "It was easy, she's terribly old. Now," she did a grin, "let's say I turn this little apprentice," she picked Cinder up with her paw, and Cinder yelped out, "into the Firebenders. This should help them detect where The Bending Tower is..."
"Paws off her!" snarled Streak, and he lunged forward, jumping onto Dusk's face. Dusk yelled out and let Cinder go, who tumbled back into the hall; the walls were beginning to cave in.
"Cinder!" Raoul exclaimed, running to go get her; but someone grabbed him by his scruff and pulled him back.
"She's done for, Raoul, let's go!" growled Caput's voice.
"But..." Raoul began, seeing Cinder yell out helplessly before being crushed by rocks.
Streak didn't seem to notice, though; he was busy running around Dusk, trying to land blows on her but failing; Dusk merely had to move back to avoid him. "Who do you think you are, messing with the Earth Kingdom leader?" Dusk growled, pinning Streak down.
"No!" Raoul yelled. He moved his paws forward, and Dusk got thrown back by a spot of earth and into the collapsing gate, and was covered by rocks.
Raoul darted forward and grabbed Streak, and then ran to where the rest of the Earth Kingdom was; they were all huddled together, standing far away from the entrance so nothing would hit them.
The Earthbenders all stood there, panting; Raoul took this moment to take in all that just happened. Windows was dead, Cinder died, Nota died, Dusk died...four deaths, just to release the Earthbenders from the Firebenders...Wait...where are the Firebenders? Raoul wondered.
"The Firebenders are trapped on the other side!" cheered Florence.
"Not for long, they will," Quake nodded.
"What do we do now?" Nyla cocked her head.
Raoul smiled. "We know what to do," he nodded at Firefly.
Firefly smiled back. "Raoul, why don't you go get The Bending Tower?"

Author's Note:
Fweeeeee.
They're free. .3.

Chapter 57: The New Plan

Raoul collapsed onto the hard, cold ground of his cell in the prisoner's room. He was exhausted from working all day catching food in the blazing sun, and the group had accomplished the chores assigned for them. Well, the Firebenders sure will have a great party now, he thought bitterly.
"Great. I wanna go to sleep now," muttered Streak. "Worst journey ever."
"We'll be fine," Cinder insisted, although her usual bright face seemed to have lost hope as well.
"We let The Bending Tower down," Comet murmured.
"What are you guys talking about?"
Raoul looked to see that Nota had awoken up, and was slowly getting into a sitting position.
"Nothing," Light lied.
"'Nothing', huh?" Nota cocked her head.
"Yes, that's what I said," Light grumbled.
"Hmm. I see you all are losing hope," Nota commented.
"Really?" said Streak dryly, receiving a warning look from Firefly.
"We've all lost hope too," Nota said. "And look at us. Old. Crippled. But look at you guys! You're younger than us. Look, in the end, good always triumphs over evil. Oldest saying in the Alpha Ruins."
"Why are you bolstering us? You gave up hope!" Akumu exclaimed.
"That..." Nota sighed, "is because if we do stand up for ourselves...our family, the Earth Kingdom, and everyone we love will be destroyed because of it. Dusk, you must know her...she's the leader of the Earth Kingdom, she's my sister. If she got killed because of me, I wouldn't know what to do with myself!"
"So, you're only in here to defend your family and friends? By hiding in a cell?" Light asked.
"It makes sense, though," Firefly pointed out. "They don't want their friends kill--"
"But it shows fear!" Light growled, rounding on Firefly. "If you show fear, evil will take it as an advantage to use it against you. If these warriors hide in shame, nothing good will come out of it. They need to act now, and if they do they can save their families!"
Raoul flinched away from Light; why was she so strong about this?
"Look," growled Caput, coming out from the shadows. "We're doing the right thing. You can all go about your own plans and whatnot, but we--"
Suddenly, the earth started shaking. Raoul got to his paws. "What the--"
Bits of rock from the ceiling started falling down. Raoul looked at the ones fallen to the ground, which were now shaking with the earth. "Earthquake!" Raoul gasped. Fear gripped him as he recalled the earthquake that nearly destroyed The Bending Tower before the rebellion started. Were all earthquakes like that one?
"Duck down!" Caput yelled out.
Raoul did as the warrior told him, and ducked down onto the ground, putting his paws over his head. He heard a yelp from somewhere in the prison room. Raoul wanted to help whoever it was, but couldn't without risking himself being killed.
Raoul could hear screaming and yelling from above. Raoul tried to block out the noise, feeling bad for the animals above. He could hear some of the warriors yelling out and talking, but Raoul just shut his eyes tight, hoping for the earthquake to be over soon.
However, the earthquake quickly stopped. Raoul got to his paws, looking around: there were rocks everywhere, and a big hole was in the ceiling, revealing the sun and the blue sky. Raoul then looked at the patrol; all of them were fine, and slowly getting up, taking in what just happened. The warriors also appeared to be fine, just startled. Although some of them looked a bit angry.
"Who did that?!" demanded a tiger, baring his fangs.
"That wasn't ordinary, I mean--" began a leopard.
A cough came and Cinder got up. "I-I think everyone is okay."
Streak shook his dusty pelt, getting up as well. "Phew! What was that?"
"Um...an earthquake?" Comet suggested.
"You know what?" Streak glared.
Comet was about to reply when there was a banging sound. Everyone suddenly went quiet and turned to look at the entrance.
It was Quake.
"Oh boy, what does he want?" Light growled.
However, the warriors said some different things.
"You traitor!" Caput was roaring.
"Why'd you do that?" demanded Nota.
"The heck is wrong with them?" Akumu asked.
"Hey, hey, calm down!" Quake growled. "Besides, you're free!"
Raoul observed the now-broken cell surrounding him. He was so surprised about the sudden earthquake that he didn't notice the cells were down. At first, his heart leapt with joy, but he quickly stopped. Wait a minute... "So?" Raoul muttered. "That doesn't mean the Firebenders think we're free."
"Well...I've been spying," Quake grumbled.
Raoul cocked his head. Huh? he then turned to look at the warriors, who all also looked confused.
"Spying, eh?" Nota said. "What'dja spy on?"
"Spying?" echoed Akumu. "Why is he spying? Doesn't he like the Firebenders?"
"No," Quake said, rounding on Akumu. "I'm only obedient to them to gain their trust. See, the Firebenders must be stopped. The land needs to be at peace. Firebenders killed my brother, and I don't want to see more deaths than necessary. When I lead the Earth Kingdom...well, if I live to, I'm going to make sure a Firebender doesn't set foot into our territory again."
"Well, for Lifebreeze's sake, Quake, if you're so determined to set the Earth Kingdom free, do it without trying to kill us, first! This guy didn't even live to see you were good!" Nota hissed, flicking her tail to a limp body in the patrol's cell.
"Wh-What?" Firefly whispered.
Raoul watched as Comet went over to the rocks and dug the body up.
It was Windows.
And he was dead.
"Crushed from impact of the rocks," grunted Caput. "Well, if we do rebel, he's the first of plenty."
Akumu glared at Quake. "Why did you do that?! You should've known you would've killed someone! I mean, making earthquakes? What is wrong with you?"
"Akumu, if the land is to be at peace, sacrifices must be made," pointed out Nota.
"But--" Akumu began.
"Alright, alright," Caput grumbled, clearly not wanting to hear an argument. "So, Quake, what is this brilliant plan of yours?"
"I've already spread the word to the residents," Quake explained, "tonight I will cause another tremor to distract the Firebenders - this one bigger - and while the Firebenders are distracted, we will sneak out, hopefully unnoticed, and get the heck out of here."
The warriors all exchanged looks.
"Sounds good," nodded Caput. "If it doesn't work, boy I will pound you."
"And good luck with that," Quake nodded back, eyes narrowed.
"That's all?" Nyla asked, stepping forward.
"Yep," Quake turned to Nyla. "Nyla, make sure no one comes in here."
"Is Dusk aware of this?" Nota asked, cocking her head.
Quake hesitated, then sighed. "No, she isn't."
With that, Quake left.

Author's Note:
Sorry for being inactive. D: I hope this makes up for it. :c
And check my new blog, if you will. ouo

A Little Survey!

Hi everyone! :D

Since I love hearing everyone's thoughts and opinions on TFEOB...

...I thought about having a lil' opinion survey! :3

I want EVERY FOLLOWER to do this, if you can. :)

Any opinions - yes, even hateful, negative ones - are welcome. Just copy and paste the questions provided into the comment box and answer them in the comments! :) Answer honestly.

1. How did you discover TFEOB?

2. Did you recommend or link TFEOB?

3. Who is your favorite character(s)? Why? Your own doesn't count!

4. Who is your least favorite character(s)? Why?

5. What is your favorite TFEOB book? Why?

6. What is your favorite side story, and why? (Ex: Killing the big deer, the snowstorm, etc.)

7. Any suggestions for TFEOB?

8. What do you not like about TFEOB?

9. How frequent do you read TFEOB?

10. Would you love it if two more series came out?

Thanks for surveying!
Oh, I am back from my vacation. If I can get my iPod working, I'll post pictures of the vacation onto Misitu's Art Central. :)
Also, I am thinking of doing an "Ask a Character" page, where you can ask any character listed any question. :3 Thoughts?

Chapter 56: Going Fishing

The next day, the patrol went to the building on the hill. Apparently they needed "special instructions" for their new job they had to do. Raoul sighed as he walked into the building with the others. As usual they were being guided by Nyla since she was their guard. Raoul paid no attention to the guards standing outside the room, as he was tired and didn't feel like working; he had stayed up most of the night because of so many things on his mind and couldn't fall asleep.
"For goodness's sake, Raoul, don't look so tired!" Akumu snapped.
Raoul yawned. "What's it to you?" he mumbled.
"It's not gonna help us with our work," Akumu hissed.
Raoul felt too tired to argue. Hopefully I'll become more peppy soon, Raoul thought hopefully. The patrol then approached Poisonfang, with Deadtail at her side. Deadtail eyed the patrol thoughtfully, and looked like he wasn't paying attention to them, seeming lost in thought. What is with him? Raoul wondered.
"Alright!" Poisonfang's snapping made Raoul pay close attention. "Tonight we're having a party, and we need plenty of food and setting up. That's where you maggots come in. You're going to fix up so we can have this party. And if it's not done by the time it starts, there'll be consequences. Understood?"
The patrol nodded quickly.
"Okay. Quake will be guarding you today, as Nyla has other duties," Poisonfang hissed.
"Oh no," Cinder whispered. Raoul shared her fear; Quake watching them would not be good.
"Alright? Now get going!" Poisonfang ordered.
The patrol turned around to leave the building. Raoul spotted Tiggerpaka standing by the window, practicing backflips. "Tiggerpaka!" Raoul hissed.
"My name is Tiggerpak!" Tiggerpaka grumbled. "Actually, it's me, Tiggerpaka, but call me by my made-up name!"
"Look, Tiggerpaka, I need you to go to Ash and get help so they can get us out of here!" Raoul whispered.
"Get help? Why?" Tiggerpaka asked.
"Because! We're being slaves!" Raoul exclaimed.
"There's no need to leave here!" Tiggerpaka insisted.
Raoul sighed. "Just go tell Ash that the patrol needs help."
"Fine," Tiggerpaka nodded. The patrol left the building, and Tiggerpaka hopped over to Poisonfang and Deadtail. "Excuse me, Losingfang!"
"Please, Tiggerpak, I am Poisonfang," Poisonfang grumbled.
"Okay then," Tiggerpaka bowed. "Ma'am, my fan club happen to be hiding outside this Earth Kingdom and I need to go see them."
"Hmm. Then allow me to go with you," Poisonfang hissed, flicking her tongue.
"Alright then," Tiggerpaka nodded.
"Poisonfang, what are you up to now?" Deadtail asked in a bored tone.
"It's all suspicious," Poisonfang whispered, "this sudden appearance of this group of travellers, how Tiggerpak keeps going on about spies and Ash...maybe he's not crazy. Maybe he's right about something! Have you learned anything, Deadtail?"
"The rising animals will fall," Deadtail murmured, looking down at his paws.
"Good." Poisonfang growled. "The Bending Tower will fall, then...They think they're on their way to rising. Tiggerpaka, come and show us these friends of yours."
"With pleasure!" Tiggerpaka said, and turned around and lead Poisonfang out of the building and towards the gates. Poisonfang slithered to the gate and tapped it with her nose and it opened. The two guards standing on the inside - the lionesses - stood back to let Poisonfang and Tiggerpaka through. Tiggerpaka walked through the tunnel and to the next gates, and Poisonfang opened those as well. They walked together through the dark tunnel and opened the next gates, revealing the outside.
"Alright, where are they?" Poisonfang snarled.
"Patience, ma'am," Tiggerpaka smiled. "They're over here." He pointed in the direction of some foliage.
Ash, who was laying with The Bending Tower, perked his ears. He spotted Tiggerpaka and Poisonfang, Tiggerpaka pointing in their direction. "What's Tiggerpaka doing with Poisonfang?" Ash said aloud. Dust came over and looked at them.
"Traitor!" Dust snarled.
"Follow me," Tiggerpaka was saying to Poisonfang. He walked in the direction of The Bending Tower.
"He's gonna screw this all up!" Dust growled.
Then, the chipmunks scurried up to Tiggerpaka.
"Ah, here they are!" Tiggerpaka said. He turned to Poisonfang. "This is my fan club! Well, I call them that anyway...really, they're just my minions..." Tiggerpaka murmured.
Poisonfang laughed. "Ha! I suppose The Bending Tower isn't out here at all..."
"Chipmunks, follow us! Back to the Earth Kingdom!" Tiggerpaka exclaimed. He walked towards the gates, and Poisonfang slithered after. They went into the Earth Kingdom.
"That was close," Ash breathed.


"So what do we gotta do to prepare for this party?" Light muttered.
"Get prey," Quake growled. "We're going to use the ocean. Fish are a common food, a food we all like."
"Wonderful. We've never went fishing before," Light grumbled.
"Well you're gonna learn!" Quake snapped.
"Geez, okay," Light growled. "Don't shout."
Quake ignored her last remark; Raoul felt that Light should be lucky he did. "Alright, follow me." Quake lead them past the building and over the hill the building was on and to the beach below them. Raoul padded along reluctantly. Just get this over with, he thought bitterly.
"Now," Quake said, "you need to wait for fish to come up to the edge of the water.If you swim through the ocean you may startle them. And when they do..." Quake paused, eyeing the water, then moved some earth up out of the sand and the fish jumped out with it. "Get 'em."
"Sir, we can't Earthbend," Akumu protested.
"I can't catch fish," Quake growled. "You can swipe with your paws. Now, get to work."
"Um...Is there an undertow here?" Light asked, looking scared. Raoul heard about how when a patrol containing Ash, Rusty, Dust, some others, and Light herself went to the Water Tribe, on the way Ash almost got pulled away by the undertow of a river.
"Yes. A very strong one," Quake narrowed his eyes.
Light shivered and proceeded to catch fish.
"What's so bad about blundertows?" Streak snorted.
"Undertow, Streak," Cinder corrected. "It takes you out to sea."
"Oh," Streak murmured, ears dropping.
Raoul concentrated on the water, looking for fish. Sometime today! he thought worriedly, not wanting to be putting prey at the party empty-pawed. He looked at Akumu; she was concentrating hard, looking fiercely determined. And, pretty soon, she swiped her paw in the water and threw a fish out of the water, that was flopping madly. Akumu jumped at the fish and tackled it into the water. Raoul cocked his head, wondering why she did that.
Akumu sat up in the ocean, holding her fish high.
But behind her, Raoul saw a dorsal fin.
"Akumu! Behind you!" Raoul yowled.
Akumu turned around and yelped out in fear, seeing what looked like a shark coming for her. She clawed at the fin and swam quickly for the shore, the shark swimming towards her. All Raoul could do was watch in fear.
But suddenly, Akumu lurched forward, falling into the air and landing face-first into the sand. She coughed and looked up, shaking her pelt. She turned to Quake. "I was fine, thank you, I didn't need saving!" she grumbled.
"Yeah. You're welcome," Quake growled.
"Did Quake just save Akumu with Earthbending?" Comet whispered.
"No, Comet, Quake just started jumping up and down and clapping his hands. Whadda you think?" Streak snorted.
Comet's right though, Raoul thought. Why had Quake saved Akumu?

Author's Note:
Posting this in Florida at my grandmother's. c:

Chapter 55: Wondering

Raoul curled up in the prison room, tired and exhausted from the hard day's work. The sun had scorched the area all day, making the work all the more harder and hotter. The rest of the patrol was already falling asleep. Raoul closed his eyes in hopes of falling asleep as well, but his mind kept racing, keeping him wide awake. Raoul sighed and looked at the warriors. They were all asleep as well. Even Nyla was asleep; she was tucked away in the corner, her sides moving slowly up and down with every breath she took.
The moonlight was shining into the prison room through the hole at the top. Raoul looked up at it. He could hear animals moving above; the Earth Kingdom was still busy with work. I'm not the only one awake, Raoul concluded.
Looking up at the moonlight, Raoul remembered: the mission. It was what they were there for, right? We have to get out somehow. Raoul then thought about The Bending Tower. What were they up to right now...? We can't let The Bending Tower down.


"Ash, wake up!"
Ash jolted awake. "Wuh?" he said, trying to stifle a big yawn. "What's-what's wrong?"
Rusty was standing over him, Crystal at his side. "Look, the patrol has been gone for a total of six days," Rusty hissed, "six days. Aren't you the least bit concerned? I mean, what if they're being harmed? The plan could easily go wrong, and this is a dangerous mission."
"Rusty, calm down," Crystal whispered. "Okay," she said louder, "Rusty, how many are on that patrol?"
"Umm..." Rusty looked up at the night sky in concentration. "S-Seven?"
"Yes. And how many do you suspect live in the Earth Kingdom?" Crystal asked, looking amused.
"T-Twenty?" Rusty cocked his head.
"No, way, way more," Crystal giggled. "Rusty, do you think seven animals can get about fifty or so animals out of their place and away from Firebenders in six days?"
"You got a point..." Rusty murmured.
"Give them time," Crystal nodded. "But," Crystal turned to Ash. "He's right, y'know. We can't wait too long."
"I know," Ash muttered. "I'll-I'll go back to sleep and see if the Peacebenders have anything to say."
"Alright," Rusty sighed. "Night, Ash."

Author's Note:
Short, pointless chapter. :U
Check my new story blog - it now has sign-ups and a Meet the Animals page!
And check the new post on Misitu's Art Central! c:

Chapter 54: Down to the Beach

Raoul awoke the next morning when a voice shouted "Get up!" He quickly snapped to his paws, not wanting to be harmed for taking a while to get up. The rest of the patrol got to their paws as well, but more slowly. The animal came into focus, and Raoul realized it was Quake, which struck more fear into Raoul. Don't get on his bad side, don't get on his bad side, Raoul kept repeating to himself.
Nyla got to her paws as well. "We're escorting them to the leaders' palace, right?"
"Right, Nyla," Quake nodded. "They need to start their duties today."
Raoul resisted the urge to groan. He didn't want to get Quake mad at him.
"Stop being so scared! I can smell your fear like the smell of prey in a desert!" Light snapped.
"Sorry!" Raoul apologized.
The group walked out of the prison room. Raoul could hear the warriors' steady breathing behind them as they slept. Raoul looked at them behind him and then looked up out of the staircase. The blue sky above was cloudless, and then sun was shining brightly. Why does the day have to be so beautiful when we're trapped doing work? Like the day is rubbing its weather in our faces.
They approached a square building built of stone with a big hole in the side. Quake stood by it and looked at them. "Alright," he grunted, "this building right here got destroyed when the Firebenders had to fight a warrior to get them into the prison a while back."
Raoul exchanged looks with Comet. Which warrior was it? Raoul wondered. Had this happened during the first time they were being imprisoned, or had they tried escaping at one point?
Suddenly, a rock hit Raoul in the side. Raoul yelped out and fell to the floor.
"Pay attention!" Quake snapped.
"Y-Yessir!" Raoul gasped, getting to his paws.
"And you all need to get rocks and bring them to the hole and put them in there. There will be consequences if you are not done by the end of the day! UNDERSTOOD?" Quake roared.
The patrol all nodded quickly.
"Good! Now get to work!" Quake growled.
"But...There are no rocks," Windows pointed out.
"Go find some yourself!" Quake snarled.
With that, Quake turned to Nyla and murmured something. Quake then nodded and walked off, but Nyla stayed standing where she was; Raoul suspected she was there to guard them while they worked.
"Um...where is a place to find rocks?" Akumu wondered.
"By the beach?" suggested Comet. "The ocean is nearby."
"Ooh! The ocean!" Streak exclaimed. "I wanna go there!"
"Remember, this is not for fun," Cinder said, "we need to get this job done."
"Yeah, yeah," Streak muttered.
Raoul looked around. "Where is the ocean? Can't see it."
"Over by the building! Remember?" Light snorted.
"Oh yeah," Raoul nodded.
They began to walk away, but Nyla trotted in front of them to stop them, "Where are you going?"
Oh, crap, Raoul thought, looking at Nyla nervously.
"'Where are you going'? Where are we going?" Light growled, "We are going to go get some rocks that your dumb gorilla friend told us to get to put them in the wall! And if you wanna keep us from doing that duty by asking questions, and we ended up getting exiled or whatever, you may try to run but I will find you. And I will hunt you down. And I will kill you."
Raoul grew wide-eyed. Light must've already had been getting fed up with having to have to do work. Raoul had to deal with Light when she was angry a few times, and they weren't good experiences. Nyla was in for some trouble. But, Nyla is protected by the others of the Earth Kingdom. If Light hurts Nyla, then Light's gonna be hurt too.
Nyla narrowed her eyes. "I'm not stopping you. I'm supposed to escort you."
"Sheesh, Light. Why are you so grumpy?" Streak rolled his eyes.
"Take a guess," Light muttered, glancing at the hole in the wall.
Nyla then began trotting, looking back at the patrol and nodding sideways to the direction of the ocean. "Well? Let's go then, follow me."
Raoul was first to quickly bound ahead to follow, but forced himself to stop and slow down and not look like an excited pup. He looked at the patrol behind him, who were following reluctantly, not looking very excited. They were a bit further behind Raoul. Raoul stopped in his tracks so he could walk alongside of them so he wouldn't have to walk with Nyla, but Nyla stopped too.
"Why'd you stop?" she asked.
"Er! Uh...waiting for them." He nodded at the patrol.
Nyla shrugged. "'Kay, then."
The patrol then caught up and Raoul began walking alongside Comet, and Nyla still kept leading, and every so often Light threw glares at Nyla, but she didn't see them; in fact, Nyla seemed oblivious to Light.
Then, they reached the hill the building was on. Nyla climbed up the hill and Raoul jumped up the hill behind her. It was rocky, and it was hard to climb. Raoul was careful about how he set his paws down, and checked how tight the rocks were settled in before resting his paw fully on the rocks.
Suddenly, Nyla slipped ahead of Raoul and fell back. Raoul jumped out of the way, and Nyla laid there, eyes wide from terror. Raoul looked at her. "Are you okay?" he demanded, examining her. Nyla then slowly got up, and Raoul noticed there were cuts on her side. "Uh..."
"I'm fine," Nyla grumbled.
"Sure?" Raoul asked.
"Yes," Nyla muttered.
Raoul growled at himself for showing care for someone from the Earth Kingdom, especially the fact that Nyla was their own guard making them stay in the prison. Peacebenders, why can't I like anyone else? Raoul demanded, looking up at the sky.
When the patrol went over the other side of the hill, they were at the ocean. There was a beach, and then blue ocean stretched as far as the eye could see. Raoul wagged his tail; it looked fun. Raoul then whispered to Comet, "Hey, wanna swim in the ocean?"
"We can't! We're supposed to be working," Comet hissed.
"How about this: we'll 'accidentally' fall in," Raoul suggested.
"Good idea," Comet replied, "Nyla can't do much anyway."
"Okay. We'll walk down, and you can look over your shoulder and bump into me and I'll fall," Raoul nodded.
"Sounds good to me," Comet responded.
Raoul and Comet both walked towards the ocean and Comet looked over his shoulder, and bumped into Raoul. Raoul fell and let himself roll forward until he came into the ocean. Yes! the water felt nice and cool in the hot climate.
"Sorry!" Comet apologized, grinning.
Raoul gave him a playful look and pulled Comet in. Comet laughed.
"Hey! You two, you're supposed to be working," Nyla snapped.
"Sorry!" Raoul's eyes drooped.
"Why are you so friendly around her?" Comet asked.
"I'm just being nice," Raoul lied.
"Raoul," Light said, "you can Earthbend the rocks into a pile."
"You can Earthbend?" Nyla cocked her head.
"Oops!" Light whispered.
"Way to go, Light!" Akumu snarled.
"Um, I..." Raoul struggled to find an excuse. "I've been here before as a traveller," he lied, "a-and...they taught me a bit of Earthbending."
"How come I've never seen you here then?" Nyla asked.
"I-I dunno," Raoul muttered.
"Well, at least I'm not the only Bender in this group then," Nyla shrugged.
"Please keep it a secret," Raoul begged. If the Firebenders find this out, I'm dead, Raoul thought nervously.
Nyla looked at Raoul. "Okay," she nodded.
Raoul sighed relief.
"Okay then, let's get these rocks together," Nyla nodded.

Author's Note:
The ocean they're seeing is actually the Pacific Ocean - I made the island they live on in the middle of the Pacific, but it's undiscovered by humans.
Also, check out my new story blog! ^-^
Sorry for not posting! Had no ideas. D: