Avatar: The Book Of The Phoenix

Chapter 2: Wrath Of The Fire Nomads

The next morning, the earth benders fell into formation.

Governor Chang, flanked by Dai Li agents and dressed in political garb, emerged from his elaborate mansion at the top of the square. He waited on the steps as a large crowd began to gather below.

Since the Yu Dao Conflict four years ago, the Earth King and Fire Lord Zuko had agreed to place a royally-appointed governor in charge of affairs of the North, to protect the interests of both colonials and Earth people alike. Luckily, that had worked for the most part—for now.

After he observed the crowd grown to a more than satisfactory size, Chang stepped forward.

"Five years ago today, our great kingdom signed the terms of peace with Lord Zuko and the Fire Nation, ending the Hundred Year War. But it is not only the heads of our nation who should receive credit for this great feat. It is you, all of you—the brave men, women, and children of this land who took a stand against tyranny. When our kingdom faced its darkest days, it is you who said stared Lord Ozai in the face and said 'no more!' and fought against the oppression and brutality of his regime. And now," he paused, surveying the people all around him. "We are proud to call Lord Zuko and the people of the Fire Nation friends and allies."

The crowd clapped once more.

"Today, we celebrate peace," Chang continued. " But we also remember and celebrate our sons, grandsons, nephews—and all who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we may stand here today and say we are free." Chang proclaimed enthusiastically. "We, in turn, honor the shared history of our people—let this city continue to stand as a testament to what can happen when we set aside our differences and work together."

The people roared with cheers and applause. Meanwhile, Rokkun and the nomads lined themselves up on the main road outside of town. Rokkun waited, assessing he situation, taking in the air, sounds, and smells. He could hear the applause, celebrations and festivities continuing behind the walls—perfect.

"It's time," He said, pulling the reigns on his rhino. "Let us show these earthlings what we think of their peace." Rokkun announced as he pulled out his sword. "Attack!"

The men charged ferociously down the road with a large battle cry, leaving a cloud of dust behind them.

Along the city walls, a rookie soldier on patrol noticed the commotion on the road. Most of the city's soldiers were listening to celebration, leaving the gates lightly guarded.

As the soldier scanned the horizon, he could see a gang of riders in the distance. The men were fast approaching, and they were bearing the colors of the Fire Nation.

The soldier panicked, dropping his spear and running as fast as he could towards the city square. Governor Chang was still giving his speech when he arrived.

"Amongst our achievements, we—" Chang said, before being interrupted by a voice down below.

"Riders! Coming from the South! It's the Fire Nation!" The young soldier yelled as he pushed himself towards the center of the crowd.

The people were thrown into a frenzy and began to panic.

"Get the women and children to safety, now!" Chang ordered his soldiers.

They rushed away immediately down the steps, some aiding the people and others preparing for the battle ahead.

The nomads charged their rhinos into the city, using their fire bending to cause damage and destruction.

Rokkun dismounted, unsheathing his swords. An earth bender charged at him—Rokun roared, cutting him down with ease. Oghuz, using firebending and his broad axe simultaneously, slayed several more.