Chronicles of Kairo

Dark Presence

Disclaimer: I do not own Avatar the Last Airbender and Legend of Korra, or any of the related characters. The Avatar universe is created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko and owned by Nickelodeon. This fanfiction is intended for entertainment only.

Book 1: Dark

Chapter 10: Dark Presence

The Southern Water Tribe awaited under the strong glow of the full moon, shimmering on the icy surface as the United Forces' fleet approached the harbor after almost ten hours of relentless journey through the frigid waters. The new Team Avatar was able to get their sleep, which they surely lacked with leaving Southern Portal, arriving at the Republic City in the middle of the night, having a meeting with President Wu, meeting with General Taiga, and leaving Republic City to sail to the Southern Water Tribe.

The atmosphere was tense, and the anticipation of the impending conflict loomed over the city. As they approached the Southern Tribe, everyone stepped on the deck. Senna watched the horror her father had caused.

"Hey," Kairo said to Senna. The moonlight painted a romantic setting as Kairo talked to Senna despite the chaos in the Southern Water Tribe.

"I can't believe how much has changed," Senna mused, her eyes gazing at the moonlit war zone. "Our lives have taken a turn we never expected. I... I betrayed my family..." she started to cry.

Kairo instinctively hugged her. "I am sorry... What you did was a tough decision. You are strong; not everyone would be able to make such a call," Kairo said trying to comfort the young woman. Senna backed down from the hug and smiled at Kairo's words while wiping her tears away.

Kairo, hoping to change the subject, started, "You know, almost two weeks ago, Jinora gave this mission to me and Gyila as my first mission, saying that Varran did not pose any serious danger at the moment," and laughed. "It's strange how destiny intertwines with our choices. I never imagined I would find myself in the midst of an actual war."

"And I never imagined I would find comfort in the midst of such a complex situation," confessed Senna, looking at the ground shyly.

Kairo smiled confidently. "Is that so? And who might that young gentleman be?" asked Kairo teasingly.

"Shut up," responded Senna with a chuckle.

At the edge of the ship, Mona's gaze was fixed on the illuminated city. Her heart raced with the urgency to find Hoaq and Master Sadin. As the fleet anchored, the Team Avatar gathered to discuss their next moves.

"We need to find Hoaq and Master Sadin first," Mona asserted, her eyes reflecting the worry for her tribe. Gyila nodded in agreement.

"I understand your concern for your friends, but informing Chief Taluru about Future Industries' help can stop this war," asserted General Taiga.

Kairo thought for a moment. "Let's split up. Me and Taiga will find Taluru, while Mona and Gyila can search for Hoaq and Master Sadin," he suggested. Everyone shared confirmatory glances.

General Taiga raised her hand, signaling for attention from the soldiers under her command. The bustling sounds of soldiers and machinery softened as all eyes turned toward her.

"Men and women of the United Forces," Taiga's voice rang out, authoritative yet carrying a hint of conviction. "Today, we stand on a conflict that threatens the very balance we seek to protect. The Southern Water Tribe faces internal war, and our mission is clear – to intervene and bring about a resolution that ensures peace and unity."

She paced along the line of officers, her gaze meeting each set of eyes with a piercing intensity. "We are not here to conquer but to guide. Our purpose is to put out the flames of war, not to ignite them further. Remember the principles that the United Forces stand for – justice, peace, and the well-being of all nations."