Chapters The Elements of Nature, Book 1: 火 & 水 (Fire & Water)
Chapter 2, The Spirit World
The Elements of Nature
On their way to Canterlot, Firebrand is eager to get started. “Can’t this train go any faster?” He said with annoyance.
“The train is going as fast as it can, sugar cube.” Applejack said two rows behind him and Twilight.
“I know. It just that I never really understood who or what I am. This may be my best chance to figure that out.” Fire' said as they enter a tunnel.
“Don’t worry. We’ll be at Canterlot soon.” Twilight said, trying to comfort Firebrand. He smiled at that.
Pinkie then shows up in between them and points out the window. “Oh, oh. There it is! Canterlot!”
When Pinkie went back to her seat, Firebrand leans in close to Twilight. “Is she normally like that?”
“Unfortunately.”
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In the castle, Princess Celestia is reading a letter from Twilight she received earlier. “Dear Princess Celestia, I have met a pony who can somehow control fire (he calls it firebending), but he doesn't know how he does it. If I may, is it all right if me and my friends look in the royal archives for clues. We will be arriving today. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle ,” is what it said.
Celestia then looks at the train station and sees the train from Ponyville has just arrive. She gets up and heads down to meet Twilight.
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The train arrives and comes to a stop. The main six, the CMC, and Firebrand get off along with a few others. They are then greeted by Celestia. “Hello Princess Celestia.” Twilight nervously said.
“Good afternoon, Twilight Sparkle.” She then notices Firebrand, “This must be the pony you told me about.”
“Wait. You said-”
“I didn't.” Twilight responded, then she realizes something. “Spike!”
“Uh, oops. Hey, you know I’m not good with secrets.”
“Huh, can we still see the archives, Princess?” Twilight asked.
“Of course. Come.”
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At the archives, Twilight and her friends, Firebrand, the CMC, and Celestia are looking through them to find some clues. “Nothing but spells that have nothing to do with fire.” Twilight said after a few hours.
“We need to keep looking, I have a feeling that something in here will help.” Firebrand replied. The doors then open, and Princess Cadance and Shining Armor come in, back from their honeymoon.
“Cadance! Shining! Your back already.” Twilight said out of joy from seeing her older brother and sister-in-law.
“I can’t believe you're in the archives.” Shining replied. He then notices Firebrand. “Who's that Twiley, your new boyfriend?”
Fire’ then begins to blush. “Absolutely not!” Fire’ said.
“No way!” Twilight said to Shinning.
“Who are these two anyway?” Fire' asked Twilight.
“Shining Armor is my older brother while Cadance is his wife,” but before she could finish Apple Bloom yelled out.
“I’v found somethin’!”. The others soon head for her.
“What is it, Apple Bloom?” Scootaloo asked.
Apple Bloom is looking at a large red book with magic symbols on it. “I think it's some kind of revilement spell.”
“A spell of revilement? What does it do?” Rarity asked.
“I don’t know. But it says here that it takes a lot of concentration for it to work.”
“I can do that at the library back at Ponyville.”
“OK, but can you do it as soon as possible?” Firebrand asked.
“Sure. Princess, can you keep looking for some clues.” Twilight asked her mentor.
“Of course.” Celestia said.
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On the train back to Ponyville, Twilight is reading more about the spell Apple Bloom found. “This spell sure is advanced. I guess it's a good thing Apple Bloom and her friends came with us.” She said to Firebrand.
“Yeah, it was a good thing.” He replied. Twilight then blushes a little.
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Back at the royal archives, Celestia, Shining, Cadance, now joined by Luna and some archivists, continue to searched. “Twilight and Fire’ make a lovely couple, don’t they?” Cadance said to Shining.
“Yes, they do.”
Bastion Yorsets, one of the judges at Twilight's entrance exam, finds a strange scroll. He opens it and finds a diagram of six different crystals, one of which looks like Firebrand’s cutie mark. The others look like a wave of water, another looks like a rock, the third looks like a lightning bolt, the fourth looks like a tornado, but the last one is unrecognizable. With the crystals, there are symbols that he can’t read. The symbols are, 火, 水, 土, 雷, and 气. He also notices that there are diagrams of not only controlling fire, but ones involving water, earth, lightning, and air, and that everything is in a different language. “Princess, I believe I found something.” He then shows the scroll to Celestia.
“Interesting, do you know what it says Bastion?”
“No, but I will have it translated right away.” The blue Unicorn said as he leaves with the scroll.
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The train the main six, the CMC, and Firebrand are on suddenly stops due to a broken piston and they get off. They are at a clearing when Spike gets an idea. “Say, Twilight, can you do the revilement spell hear?”
“I guess I can.” She said nervously. A bit later, Fire’ is in the middle of a pentagram Twilight drew with candles at the 5 points. Twilight is outside the pentagram concentrating. Her horn begins to glow.
“Come on now, y'all. Lets give her some space. She needs to concentrate.” Applejack said to the others so they step back a little.
The pentagram begins to glow and theres a flash of bright light. When its gone, the only things left are the candles, still lit, Twilight and Firebrand. “Well,” Twilight said, “did it work?”
“I...” Fire’ painfully said, “Don't know. It fells ... like my head is splitting apart!” Suddenly, his eyes begin to glow red along with his mane and tail.
“Whats happening to him.” Rainbow asked with fear in her voice. The fire on the candles then begin to flicker faster and soon air begins to fly around and circle Firebrand as he is lifted up into the air.
“FIREBRAND! ” Twilight yelled out as he begins to float in the air. Then a strong beam of red light shots out from his horn into the sky.
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On a warship around the size of Sugarcube Corner, in a river in the Everfree Forest, the beam does not go unnoticed. “Finally!" A young Earth Pony stallion said. His coat is charcoal black while his mane and tail are flame red along with his eyes. His cutie mark is a piece of burning wood. "Uncle, do you realize what this means?!”
He said to another Earth Pony stallion at least 50 years younger than Granny Smith. He has a black coat and dark gray eyes. His cutie mark is a tile with a white lotus on it. His mane and tail are varying shades of gray, indicating his age. The stallion is playing some sort of card game.
He answers calmly while looking over the tile he's holding toward his nephew. "I won't get to finish my game?" He said.
"It means my search is about to end." The younger Earth Pony said. The older stallion then just sighs uninterested. "That light is coming from an incredibly powerful source! It has to be one of them!"
"Or it's just the celestial lights, or a Unicorn made a mistake while doing a transportation spell. We're taking a big risk being in Equestria. Celestia and Luna, especially Luna, won't be pleased to see Fire Nation ponies here." The older stallion said. He then looks at the tile in his hoof that depicts a symbol of firebending, which is stylized, tulip-shaped flame forked into three tongues that curve outward like flower petals, with a spiral at the base.
"I also don't want you to get too excited over nothing." He then places it on another tile that depicts the symbol of airbending, which is a closed, counterclockwise, inverted triple spiral triskele. The other three ties have either a circle comprising a stylized rightward-facing ocean wave with three spiral crests breaking over three wavy diagonal lines representing water, a tall rough isosceles trapezoidal shape, the base of which is made up of the Bagua trigram Kun, denoting earth. Inside, at the top, is a spiral running left. Or a thunder cloud with lightning bolts coming out of it.
The older stallion then gestures toward the open place at the other side of the table and continues in a soothing voice. "Please, sit. Why don't you enjoy a cup of calming Jasmine tea?"
"I don't need any calming tea! I need to capture one of the Avatars! " The young Earth Pony said out of pure rage. "Navigator, head a course for the light! "
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Back at the Castle, Celestia, Shining, Cadance, & Luna see the light. “Why do I get the feeling that Twilight’s spell went horribly wrong?” Shining said.
“Lets go!” Celestia said before flying off toward the light. The others soon follow.
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In a corridor, Bastion Yorsets is still studying the scroll when the letters begins to glow bight blue, surprising the Unicorn. "What the hay!?" Was all Bastion could say as the light intensifies.
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In a temple in the Himalayas, an old unicorn is meditating in front of a painting of a pegasus with a green coat and a blue coat. She also has gold yellow fans in her front hoofs. The eyes of the mare then begin to glow white. The light is so strong that it cadets a long shadow on his face. "It is time."
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At the north pole, another temple is glowing bluish white, as some pegasi are watching. "Why is the ancient water temple glowing?" A mare asked.
"I think I know." A stallion said.
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In a island nation, at another temple, its roof is glowing with a reddish light. Inside the temple, a Sage is leaning out a room where the light is emanating from. "Send word to the Fire Lord immediately! The Avatar has returned! " He yelled to another Sage. The expression on the recipient Sage's face then turns to one of fright
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At the field, Twilight and the others try to snap Fire’ out. They tried rain, magic, even throwing stones, but nothing works. The Princesses and Shining arrive soon after. “What is going on here?” Luna asked them.
“We don’t know. I tried the spell after the train needed to stop. Then he just started to float and this started. We tried everything but nothing works!” Twilight said as Celestia steps forward.
“Stand back.” She tried to make the ... whatever it is to stop, but when she tries she gets knocked back by a blast of fire, but she doesn't get hurt. Luna then goes to her sister to see if she's okay as the others begin to yell out Firebrand’s name.
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Meanwhile, in a strange forest, Firebrand opens his eyes when he hears Twilight calling his name. “ FIREBRAND!” His name begins to echo around him. The forest he's in is like a forest tigers live in. Theres a fog that obscures what appeaser to be a cave with lanterns. He walks toward the entrance.
When he enters he sees what appears to be a dragon, but instead of it being like the others in the series, its more Chinese like. It walks over toward him. At first, Fire’ wants to run, but he senses that the dragon means no harm, so he stays. “The Avatar?” The dragon said, “Where have you been?” Firebrand then begins to hear his friends calling out to him.
“ Fire’!”
“ Firebrand!”
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Firebrand begins to float down and when he lands he passes out. “Firebrand!” Twilight yelled as she runs up to him
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Later at Ponyville, Fire’ wakes up in the Apple Family barn at Sweet Apple Acres. He sees that the others are right next to him. “What happen?”
“Thats what we were going to ask you.” Luna said.
“I don’t know. I wasn't sure if it was a dream or not. I was in this strange forest, I went into a cave and I saw this dragon.
“A dragon.” Fluttershy nervously said.
“Yes, but it wasn't like others. It talked to me, calling me the Avatar. Do you guys know what that means.”
The normally all-knowing Celestia only said one thing, “Not a clue.”
Fire’ gets up and notices that his hooves, which used to be orange, now have a flame pattern going up slightly beyond his ankle. His mane and tail have change to, becoming like Spitfire’s. “What happened to my hooves, mane, and tail?”
“They were like that after what happened last night.” Cheerilee then comes running in with Big Mac and some of her students.
“Miss Cheerilee? Big Mac? What are y’all doing?” Applejack asked.
“Some strangers came into town with, well, I'm pretty sure tanks. I wanted my students to be somewhere safe. So I ask Big Mac if we can be in the barn until its safe.”
As usual, Fluttershy acted in her own way. “Strangers!” She then hides at the top of the barn.
“Stay here, we’ll see what they want.” Twilight said to Firebrand and the CMC. She and the others then left with Celestia, Luna, Cadance, and Shining. Sweetie Belle then walks up to Fire,’ carrying her bag.
“Uh, Fire,’ I wanted to give you this to make you feel better about what happened last night.” She opens her saddle bag and then gives him a dark red cape with a hood with gold silk under it. On top of it there's a flame design that's like his cutie mark in gold silk.
“Thanks Sweetie.” He then puts it on along with the hood, it perfectly hides his cutie mark, mane and tail, like Zecora's.
“Rarity is going to kill you for taking the gold silk again.” Scootaloo pointed out.
“I know.”
The Elements of Nature, Book 1: 火 & 水 (Fire & Water)
The Elements of Nature
At the town square, everypony in Ponyville is gathering as earth ponies in black armor and helmets that cover most of their faces are moving throw the streets, followed by the same colt who saw the beam of light from last night. “It can’t be a coincidence that when you try that spell, Fire' goes all crazy and shots a beam of light into the sky last night, and now these guys show up with their tanks.” Rainbow quietly said to Twilight.
Celestia and Luna then walk up to the colt. Celestia spoke first. “I am Princess Celestia, Co-ruler of Equestria with Princess Luna. Who are you and why have you come?”
“I am Prince Zuko." the colt responded. "Son of Fire Lord Ozia and heir to the Fire Nation Throne! Bring me all your elderly and newcomers! ”
Rainbow and Applejack are about to tackle him when Luna steps in between. “Don’t,” she said, “its best not to anger the Fire Nation.”
Soon the residents of Ponyville are bringing the old and any newcomers to Zuko. He then points to one of his guards. “You, check the barn.” Granny Smith is among the ones to be brought up.
“What in tarnation is going on here?” She asked.
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The guard that went to the barn opens the door and sees only Big Mac, Cheerilee, and the foals. However, before he leaves, he sees a colt older than the students but younger than Zuko among them. He can tell he doesn't look like he's from Equestria and walks to him and removes his hood. Its Firebrand. He sees his mane and tail. He then begins to take him to Zuko.
“All right, quit shoving, I’m going.” He puts his hood back on before they leave.
After they leave, Sweetie Belle is the only one to speak, “Why would they take Firebrand?”
“Lets find out.” Apple Bloom answered from behind. Both Sweetie and Scootaloo turn around and see she's at the wall and moves a board out-of-the-way. “Come on.” She leaves and the other two follow.
“How are we gonna get to the town square?” Scootaloo asked Apple Bloom.
“I know a short cut.” Apple Bloom said as they make their way to the center of town.
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At the center of town, the guard brings Firebrand to Zuko. Twilight sees them, “Firebrand?” She said.
“They must want him for some reason.” Rainbow said.
Fire' and the solider then stop right in front of Zuko. “Your scaring these people.” Firebrand said.
Zuko then takes off his hood and sees his mane. “Who are you? Whats your name?! " Zuko asked.
“I don’t need to tell you anything, hothead.” Fire' responded.
“Soldiers! ” The soldiers then walk up to them, flamethrowers in hand (metaphorically speaking). “I’m taking you to my ship. If you don’t come, I’ll burn down this village.”
“I’ll go with you. Just don’t hurt anyone.” They than walk to the tank. Twilight almost follows them but stops when a soldier fires a flamethrower at them, causing all the residents to duck for cover, even Celestia and Luna.
Celestia then realizes something. “They were looking for someone old or with that mane and tail.”
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Back at the library, Twilight is looking out the window. “Get over it Twilight, those Fire Nation gays got what they wanted.” Spike said trying to comfort her.
“I know, but we should have done something.”
Applejack then walks in with Rarity. “Twilight, have ya seen Apple Bloom? We can’t find her, Sweetie Belle or Scootaloo any where.”
“No, I haven't seen them.” Twilight then realizes something. “Where were they last seen?”
“In the barn with Cheerilee and Big Mac.” Rarity said.
“Then I think I know where they are.” Twilight said when she realizes something.
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On Zuko’s ship, which is the same size as a Sugarcube Corner that is black with dark red lines and a smoke stake spurring out black smoke from burning coal, the CMC are looking for Firebrand. “How did I get talked into this?” Sweetie Belle asked.
“Come on, I see the one who took Fire.’” Apple Bloom then points to Zuko who is accompanied by the older stallion who also saw the light last night.
“He’s in here uncle.” Zuko said to him. He then opens the metal door and lets his uncle in first. Before he could close the door, the CMC sneak in and hide behind a drawer. They see Firebrand behind a table looking at the river.
“What do you want with me?” Firebrand asked.
“My nephew wants me to perform a little test on you.” There was a short pause before Firebrand said anything.
“What kind of test?”
“I assure you, it wont hurt. I’ve performed it hundreds of times. It only takes a few moments. And then your free to go, along with your little friends who sunk aboard.” He then points toward the drawer that the CMC are hiding behind. They then nervously walk out.
“How did you three get here?” Firebrand asked.
“We got on the tank and here we are.” Scootaloo answered.
Zuko then walks up to them, “Be glad I'm in a good mood.”
“If this is you in a good mood, I hate to see you in a bad mood.” Sweetie said out of fear.
Zuko’s uncle then walks up to Firebrand. “Would you mind if I put a few things in front of you at the table? It will only take a moment.”
“That’s all you wan’t?” Fire' asked.
“My name is Iroh, and you have my word.” He said.
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On a chariot, the main six, with Shining and Cadence are flying over the Everfree, looking for Zuko’s ship. “Where are they?!” Twilight said as she scans the hundreds of rivers in the forest.
“Over there!” Rainbow said as she points to a puff of black smoke, which is right above the deepest river in Equestria.
“I’m coming Fire.’” Twilight thought to herself as they fly toward it.
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Meanwhile on the ship, Iroh is performing his test. First he puts a lit candle in front of Firebrand. The candle begins to flicker and grow almost instantly. He then puts the candle out. Next he puts an empty jar in front of him. The air in the jar stirs and nearly breaks it. He then grabs a jar with an inert lighting bolt in it.
“Where did you get that?” Scootaloo asked.
“You be surprised by what we find on the ocean.”
He then puts it in front of Fire.' The lighting inside begins to flash as it tries to escape. Then he gets a jug of water and pours it on the table. The water begins to condense to the center and forms a perfect circle. Zuko then wipes it up as Iroh grabs a small rock and puts it in front of Fire.’ The rock begins to move as the ovule shape stone begins to go vertical, small end going down. Fire,' Iroh, the CMC, and Zuko are stunned by what they see.
“You are my prisoner...” Zuko soon said, “Firebender. I’m taking you back to the Fire Nation.”
“What!?” Sweetie Belle yelled out.
“You said...” Firebrand began to say until he is interrupted by Iroh.
“I apologize. I should have explained further." Iroh said as he explains further. "If you fail the test, as all others did, you were free to leave. But, as it turns out, you are the first of only 5 in the entire world who could pass this test. It is truly a honer to be in your presence, Avatar of Fire.” Firebrand then looks down for a moment.
“Don’t even try to escape. This is a warship! ” Zuko yelled. Firebrand then jumps up and lands behind them. He grabs the CMC and runs for the door. “Stop! Theres no way you can... ” Fire’ then closes the door and uses some fire to weld the door shut as Zuko said that. Sweetie then notices some guards. The guards see them and head for them. Firebrand then does some martial art techniques (specifically Northern Shaolin). Some fire then goes from some torches and hits the guards, sending them flying.
“How did you do that?”
“I have no idea, Scootaloo. It just came natural to me. Come on.” They leave just when Zuko bust down the door. They run by a trophy case and Fire’ sees something familiar, a neckless. The neckless is a metal penitent with a flame design, while the string is covered in red and orange beads in a pattern. He breaks the glass and takes the neckless with him.
“Why are you takin’ that?” Apple Bloom asked.
“I’ll explain later, we need to find the exit.”
The four make it to the deck, with Zuko right behind. They then see the group flying right for them. “Big sis!” Both Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom said as Fire’ turns around to face Zuko and manages to deflect a flamethrower attack by spinning his legs around like a baton. However, he propels himself by accident into the air and lands on the ledge of the deck. He leans precariously over the side, unsteadily balancing himself, but manages to regain his balance only for Zuko to fire another blast at him. The blast seemingly knocks him out cold and he falls backward off the ship into the water where he slowly sinks.
“No! Firebrand! ” A horrified Twilight said. As Fire’ sinks further underwater, he somehow hears Twilight’s voice. “ Firebrand! Firebrand! Firebrand!” Suddenly, Fire’s eyes open, glowing a bright red, along with his mane and hoofs, and he frowns angrily. He steadies himself in the water and begins swiveling around, a waterspout forming around him. He rockets upward and erupts from the surface, riding a humongous spinning water vortex.
Zuko looks up at this in horror as Fire’ lands in front of the fillies, summoning the water behind him. His eyes, mane and hoofs still glowing, he brings his hoofs around behind his head. The water swirls around him, forming a protective circle, before spreading outward, knocking Zuko and several soldiers off their feet, sending them into the water. Twilight and the others on the chariot are leaning over the side, watching in shock as Fire’ nearly collapse to the ground as the glow disappears. “Did you see what he just did?!” A shocked Twilight said.
“That ... was ... AWSOME! ” Rainbow said as they land on the ship. A week Fire’ and the three fillies get on, but before they leave, Rarity sees a sword in its red leather sheath. It has a design like a Middle Eastern sword. The cross-guard is made of gold and has fire rubies incrusted into the ends. Rarity can't help but take the sword because of the gems and gold on it.
Zuko and some soldiers climb back to the deck and see that they are leaving. “Don’t move!” Zuko yelled, “You have nowhere to run!” She then follows the others and the fly off the ship and head to the forest.
“They've gone into the forest, well never find them in there. They also took Iroh’s fire sword.” A guard told Zuko as Iroh walks onto the deck. He then heads toward the ships prow and stares at the river.
“You found the Fire Avatar.” Iroh said as he tried to calm him.
“For a moment, I had my honor back.”
“Both yours and the five Avatars destinies are tide, Zuko. That you can be sure of.”
“They've gone into the forest, well never find them in there. They also took Iroh’s fire sword.” A guard told Zuko. He then heads toward the ships prow and stares at the river.
“You found the Fire Avatar.” Iroh said as he tried to calm him.
“For a moment, I had my honor back.”
“Both yours and the five Avatars destinies are tide, Zuko. That you can be sure of.”
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In the forest, it’s almost dusk so they decided to camp for the night. After they start a fire and set up some shelter, they huddle around the fireplace. Fire’ is looking at the neckless he took from the ship. “So...” Sweetie began, “Why did you take that neckless?”
“It was my fathers. I made it for him as a birthday present when I was your age.” He then has a flashback to when he gave Phoenix the neckless. It was a warm summer day. Phoenix was taking a walk when Fire’ caught up and gave it to him. Phoenix gladly accepted it.
Back in the present, Rainbow notices Rarity admiring the sword she took. “Where did you get that?”
“I took it from the ship, I mean it has such beautiful craftsmanship. Just look at the blade.”
Firebrand then angrily walks up to her and takes the sword. “You just took something from a Fire Nation ship out of beauty.” The fire rubies on the cross-guard begin to blow slightly. “Huh?” Fire’ then begins to move the sword the same way he would firebend. The fire in the pit begins to move with it. He then spins the sword around the fire in the pit goes to it and when he stops, the sword is on fire. “I’m keeping this.”
“Yes, it would do better for you then what I had in mind. Hears the sheath that came with it.” Rarity then gives it to him. He puts out the fire on the sword and puts it up.
The Elements of Nature, Book 1: 火 & 水 (Fire & Water)
Chapter 4, The Avatar Returns
The Elements of Nature
Back at Ponyville, Fire,’ Twilight, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Rainbow, Scootaloo, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Pinkie, Fluttershy, Cadence and Shining are in the library discussing what happened. “That Iroh called you the Avatar of Fire?” Twilight ask.
“He did. He also said that there are 4 others who can pass the test he gave me.” Fire' answered.
“So what does that mean?” Sweetie Belle asked.
“I don’t know, all I know is that the Fire Nation will be looking for me. I need to leave Ponyville, and soon.” Fire' said, causing Twilight to feel betrayed.
Suddenly, Spike is running and then falling down the stairs. “Ow.” Spike said as he checks himself over to see if he has any bruises.
“What is it Spike?” Twilight asked her number one assistant.
“I just got a letter from Celestia. She wants us to join her and go to Pegasus City at the North Pole.” Spike answers as he gives Twilight the letter.
“Celestia wants us to go to the North Pole? Why?” Rainbow asked.
“To discuss with the city's ruler about the Fire Nation and the Avatar.” Twilight said when she finishes reading the letter.
“Well, if your going big sis, so am I.” Sweetie Belle said to Rarity.
“Me two.”
“Me three.” Scootaloo and Apple Bloom said respectfully.
“Say, Fire,' do you mind coming with us?” Twilight asked.
“No, I wouldn't mind at all.” Fire’ answered, causing Twilight to smile.
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At Canterlot, the main 6, accompanied by the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Firebrand, who is carrying his new sword and wearing his fathers neckless, wait for Celestia, Luna, Cadence, and Shining so they can head north. Beginning to get inpatient, Rainbow gets annoyed. “Where are they?”
“Were right here, Rainbow.” They turn around and see that they're standing right behind them with some unicorn guards who are going to come with them.
“Uh, sorry.”
“No harm done.”
They get on a small plane and take off for the North pole. “How long until we reach the North pole, Celestia?”
“A few days, if were lucky Twilight. Equestria is in the southern hemisphere so it will take some time to reach the North pole.”
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On the open ocean, a Fire Nation Commander with a sand brown coat and a black mane and tail along with black body armor with a sword for a cutie mark named Zhao sees a Fire Nation ship is five miles away. He holds up a telescope and, at the bow, he sees Prince Zuko. Zhao recognizes Zuko. “The banished prince.” He then turns to his solders. “Lets offer him lunch.”
A bit later, Zuko and his uncle are onboard the much larger ship of Zhao, at least twice the size of a Ursa Major. They are in the dinning hall when Zhao decides to make an announcement. “I wanted to thank the great General Iroh and young Prince Zuko for dinning with us. ” All the soldiers in the dinning hall (which are only earth ponies) raise there glasses up to toast. Zhao continues, “As you know, the Fire Lord has banished his son, the Prince, and renounced his love for him, and will not let him return to the throne unless he finds at least one of the Avatars, which most say do not exist. The Fire Lord believes his son is too soft, and by doing this, he will become strong and become a worthy heir to the throne. ”
Zuko then nearly charges at Zhao before his uncle stops him. “Zuko, don’t.” Iroh quietly said, loud enough for only Zuko to hear.
“I commend the Fire Lord’s discipline. For example, it seems I need to remind Prince Zuko that, during his banishment, he is an enemy of the Fire Nation and is not allowed to were the Fire Nation uniform. But we will let him were it today, like a foal wearing a costume on the Americans Halloween or the Equestrians Nightmare Night. ”
After a short pause, Zuko burst up and walks to Zhao. “One day, my father will take me back and you will bow before me.” Zuko said to his ear before storming off for his ship, Iroh close behind.
Back on Zuko’s ship, he holds a small picture with his family on it. He then puts it away and begins to train with some guards, Iroh is watching while he is drinking some tea.
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A couple of days later, the plane they were on needed to have an emergency landing in Geo Firma. It landed in a filed surrounded by trees but they need to find a way to the North Pole soon. “Me and Luna will go with the pilot to find us some supplies.”
“OK.” Twilight said.
After a few minutes after Celestia, Luna, the guards (except Shining) and the pilot leave, Firebrand asks Shining Armor something. “Uh Shining, how much does the Fire Nation control?”
“A lot of villages in Geo Firma like around here. They haven’t been able to conquer big cities, like the Ba Sing Se, but Celestia is sure they’re making plans. That's why she wants to visit the Pegasi of the North.” Shining answered.
“So...” Cadence asked, “Are you the Avatar of Fire, Firebrand?” Suddenly, a young Pegasus colt with an earth green coat and brown mane and tail runs for them and hides behind Cadence.
“What is this?” Rainbow asks. They then see some Fire Nation soldiers come running after him.
“Stay hidden.” Twilight told Fire’ as he put his hood on as the soldiers arrive.
“That colt is being arrested.” The leader said.
“For what?” Rainbow asked.
“He was flicking tiny stones at us from behind a tree. It really hurt." The brown Fire Nation earth pony said, clearly annoyed. "Unicorns and Pegasi are forbidden to even say anything to a Fire Nation pony in this village.”
“Leave him alone,” Fluttershy began.
“Your not taking him anywhere.” Rainbow finished.
Shining soon steeps forward, “No one is taking anypony away!” Twilight then begins to use her magic on the solders.
“She's using magic!” A solider said.
Twilight then uses the spell, which is supposed to freeze enemies in a small ice jacket, but instead of hitting the Fire Nation soldiers, it hit Shining, trapping him in ice. “Twilight!”
==================================================================
Later at the village, which is populated by the three most common types of ponies, Twilight, Fire,' Cadence, Shining, Rainbow, Scootaloo, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and the Pegasus colt are taken to a holding area. “Move.” A guard said.
Applejack, Apple Bloom and Pinkie ask to visit their friends and are allowed in. The colt then runs for his unicorn father, who has a pale green coat and a black mane and tail. “Dad.” He said as the two huge. “This is my father.”
“Hello.” He said.
“The Fire Nation’s plan, suppress all other magic except their own, including Pegasus magic.” Shining said.
Firebrand then walks up to the two. “How did this happen to your village?”
“The Fire Nation sent soldiers. We fought them and defeated them. Then they sent there machines, huge machines made of a metal that magic can’t effect. There was nothing we could do. Those who are earth ponies, did not practice magic, or are part of the weather team were allowed to live in peace, if we were imprisoned.” The father said.
Celestia and Luna then show up. “Were here for your bails.” Luna said.
“Come, we need to leave.” Celestia said to them.
"Why?" Cadence asked her aunt. "We need to-"
"The Fire Nation will just simply use their flamethrowers on us." Celestia interrupted. "And besides, we have more important business. I don't want to seem cruel, but we should leave before something worse happens. We need to leave, now." But after a moment, Firebrand begins to walk out to the center of the prison yard. “What's he doing?” Celestia quietly said.
“Pegasi! Unicorns! " Fire' called out, getting everyponies attention. "Why are you acting this way? You are both powerful and amazing ponies! You don’t need to live like this! Both magic and the sky are all around you. The ground and the sky are merely extensions of who you are! ” After a moment, Fire’ continued. “If a powerful pony, like the Avatar, were to return, would that mean anything to you?”
Some ponies, a Unicorn and two Pegasi steeped forward, “The Avatar is a myth. Even if he was real and here, he would protect us.” The Unicorn said.
“My name is Firebrand... ” He then removes his hood, showing his mane. “And I’m the Avatar of Fire. " Some of the soldiers then walk to him a little as Fire' takes on a fighting stance. "It's time for you to stop doing this, Fire Nation! ”
“The Fire Avatar would have to be a Firebender." One of the soldiers said. "Are you a Firebender colt?” He along with some other guards then laugh at him.
Twilight then runs up and pushes him back. “Leave him alone! ” The solider then runs for her, but Firebrand bends some fire from a pot to send him flying. He then moves that fire around him, showing he's a Firebender.
“How is he doing that? ” A solider asked out of shock.
“I don’t want to hurt anypony, but I will if I have too.” Fire' said.
“All benders should be dead.” A solider said out of pure shock. “Kill him! Flamethrowers, positions! ” A soldier bellowed as they take their positions.
The others then run to aid Twilight and Fire’ except for Celestia and Luna, who are shocked at what they're seeing. Rarity then realizes that they are outnumbered and begins to panic. “OK! Everypony can help us now! ” The colt from earlier then throws a pebble that hits a solider in the back of the head. The solider then takes his flamethrower and fires at the colt. But the father makes a light green shield appear and protects him. The colt soon hugs his father as other Pegasi and Unicorns make a stand.
“Don’t be afraid!” Cadance yells. Another soldier then use his flamethrowers and the two shot at the father & son, but a larger shield appears, made up of 6 colors, that 3 mares and 3 stallion unicorns conjure up. A Pegasus then throws a head size rock and it hits one of the flamethrower soldiers. The other fires, but a unicorn makes a shield just in time. Firebrand then takes out the other flamethrower and takes his sword back. He then uses his firebending to throw back some soldiers. Realizing that they are out match, the Fire Nation soldiers run.
“Just leave them! ” One of them yelled.
“Fall back! ”
“Go! He’s a bender! ”
Firebrand begins to use fire to literally throw the Fire Nation out-of-town. Later, the village residents take them to a statue of a pegasus mare in the center of town. She has robs on and is holding two fans. "Who is this lovely mare?" Rarity asked. "She's positively gorgeous!"
“This was you, Fire,’ before the Avatar spirit divided, when you were born a Pegasus, two lifetimes ago.” The village elder told Fire,’ shocking Rarity that the mare she found lovely was Fire' two lifetimes ago. “You came to our village when only unicorns lived here. Avatar Kyoshi loved games, and hated snakes.”
“I do, too. I mean, I still do.” Fire' said while smiling.
Later, the group are talking about what they should next. “A lot of villages in this part of Geo Firma are occupied by the Fire Nation, like this one was.” Shining told them, “They pray on the weakest towns and villages. We should go visit some of these towns, Firebrand.”
“Good idea, but like the prophecy and the old stallion said, I’m only part of the Avatar. We need to find the other 4.”
“OK. But where could they be, they could be somewhere anywhere in the world.” Rainbow said to him. Fire' then notices the old stallion and walks up to him.
“Say, village elder!”
“Yes?” The elder said.
“Is there some place I can go to, some place that has a spiritual connection?” Fire’ asked.
“There is.” He then points toward some mountains further north. “On those mountains lies the Northern Air Temple, a place where ancient unicorns practice the art of Airbending.”
“We can stop at some of the villages along the way. We can change the balance of The War.” Shining told them.
“Lets do it.” Fire’ said as they village celebrates.
==================================================================
A day later at a village surrounded by grass, Fire Nation soldiers are running from Firebrand. Twilight begins to hang posters around with Fire’s face on them saying, “The Avatar has returned.”
==================================================================
In the first village they were at, Prince Zuko and his uncle are walking around. They are wearing robs so no one can recognize them. They go to the prison yard and see what has happened.
==================================================================
Later, in the Fire Nation, the Fire Lord is walking to the balcony where Zhao is waiting. The Fire Lord is around Luna’s hight and is an earth pony with a very dark red coat and charcoal black mane and tail and a long beard. He is wearing dark red armor.
“Sire, I have good news. As you know, I have conducted a raid on the Grate Library in the Himalayas, which most said didn't exist.”
“Get on with it.”
“I have found scrolls in the library. We are deciphering them. But I believe they contain information on where the Ocean and Moon Sprites live in this world. With this information, we could bring down Pegasus City at the North Pole, we could show the world the true strength of the Fire Nation.”
“I am pleased.” After a moment, Ozia asks him something else. “Well, Commander Zhao, are the rumors and what the Fire Sages say true or not?”
“Our spies have discovered somepony calming to be the Avatar of Fire. They describe him as just a young unicorn stallion. We should set a trap for this pony. We have many Geo Firma ponies under our control. I can leave soldiers in certain locations.”
“And my son?” Ozia asked.
“He had his chance. He missed it.”
“Lets hope, for your sake, my son doesn't find this pony first and he turns out to be the Avatar of Fire. He would return as a hero and, for all purposes, your superior.”
“Well, I suppose it’s a race, then.” Zhao responded.
==================================================================
At the northern end of Geo Firma, at Fire Nation Colony 15, Fire Nation ponies are enjoying the shops and restaurants, with Iroh and Zuko in one restaurant. “Were close, Uncle. They’ve been moving farther and farther north. We're catching them.” Zuko said as Iroh is looking around.
“There are a lot of pretty mares in this town, Zuko. You could fall in love here. We could settle down here, and you could have a blessed life.” Zuko than stars at his uncle, “We don’t have to continue this, Zuko.”
“I’ll show you why we must, Uncle.” He then spots a colt with an orange coat, a brown mane and tail, and blue eyes.
“Hey, Hey. Little one, come here.” The colt does so. “You look like a very smart boy. Tell me about the Prince, the Fire Lord’s son.”
“He did something wrong.”
“He spoke out of turn to a general, in defense of some of his friends who were going to be sacrifice in a battle.”
“Then Prince Zuko was sentenced to an Agni Kai duel, but when he showed up, it was his father he was to fight.”
“That’s right.”
Zuko begins to have a flashback to when this happened, 14 and a half years earlier. “He would not fight his father. ”
“Then his father mocked him and said, ‘I should bring your sister up here to beat you.’ ”
“Then the father burnt his son with a small flamethrower, to teach him a lesson. ”
After a moment, Zuko nodes and the colt leaves. “We’ll catch him soon, Uncle. Then we can think about the pretty mares.”
The Elements of Nature, Book 1: 火 & 水 (Fire & Water)
Chapter 5, The Blue Spirit
The Elements of Nature
At the shore of a lake a few miles away from Fire Nation Colony 15, Firebrand is doing some yoga with the Cutie Mark Crusaders, something they have done together since they left Canterlot.
“Everythin’ all right Firebrand? You seem a bit distracted today.”
“Yes, but I saw the map the old stallion gave us. We’re near the Northern Air Temple. I just think I should go to the temple alone.”
“Why?” Twilight asked a bit later.
“He doesn't want us to get hurt.” Scootaloo told her.
“You saw what happen the last time he had a vision. He just doesn't want us to get hurt is all.” Sweetie said.
“I don’t think that's a good idea.” Shining said. “We started a rebellion.”
“I’ll try to talk him out of going alone.” Twilight said. She then walks over to Fire’ to talk to him.
Later that night, Twilight wakes up and sees that Firebrand is gone, a note is in his bag. It says, “I’ll be back when I can. I’ll meet you at the next town.”
“He’ll be back in a day.”
“The Fire Nation is following us. If we make a wrong move, they’ll catch him.” Shining said to his little sister.
==================================================================
At the Northern Air Temple, Firebrand is busy exploring. He then sees an old unicorn mare with a light brown mane and tail while her coat is an earth brown. “And who are you?” She asked, but she then notices his mane and tail. “Why, it cannot be! I’ve heard stories. Are you...?”
Firebrand then nodes his head saying yes. “My name is Firebrand.”
“I cannot believe I’ve lived to see your return. I’m an Geo Firma villager, but I visit these temple remains often.” The old mare said.
Firebrand then takes a look around. “The Fire Nation has destroyed this temple. They have ruined everything.”
“No, no, no, not everything. You know, there’s a hidden chamber of statues. I think you, of all ponies, should see.”
“When I was young. The village elder of my home wanted to take me away to see what I am. I ran, but when I finally returned, every one I knew and loved was gone.”
“You seem like a nice young stallion. You really do. You will forgive me, won’t you?” The mare asked.
“For what?”
“For luring you down here.” She then pulls out a knife and then some Fire Nation soldiers come out of their hiding places from behind the statues. “I have lived in poverty because of you absence, Fire Avatar. So you would understand my actions today.” More soldiers soon come running in and one puts a saddle bag full of money on her as she leaves.
==================================================================
Later that night, Firebrand is being held up with chains to the ceiling. There is no fire for him to use, so he's trap. He then closes his eyes and enters the Spirit World.
==================================================================
He then goes to the Dragon Spirit as fast as he can. "I have seen a vision of the moon turning red and Princess Luna dying soon after. The Fire Nation has stolen knowledge of us from the Grate Library in the Himalayas. They are planning to misuse this knowledge."
"I will stop them, but I need to find the other Avatars. Where are they?"
"The Avatar of Water is at Pegasus City at the North Pole. You must go there. If they take that city, more will suffer and die, as your home land of Abysus did. You must go now!"
"Will I stop them?" But before the dragon spirit could answer, Firebrand hears another voice and leaves the Spirit World.
“Wake up, young stallion!”
==================================================================
Fire’ then opens his eyes and sees a Fire Nation solider in front of him. “My name is Commander Zhao. I set this trap for you. Don’t worry, I’m not going to kill you.” He the begins to walk around Firebrand. “Besides, you just be reborn again, and the search will continue.”
Zhao then stops in front of Fire’. “I understand that when you freed those hoof full of towns, you were very impressive. But you only used firebending. Now why is that?”
==================================================================
Outside the temple, a tank is going across the bridge to the temple. Underneath it is a pony in a blue robe and a demonic midnight blue mask. “The Fire Lord and I have a plan to ensure our reign and the downfall of our enemies. ” Zhao announced as the spirit then jumps over the wall and heads to where Fire’ is being held. “I am sending a personnel message to the Fire Lord, informing him that the once feared Avatar of Fire is no longer a threat to our might. ”
“Who are you?” The spirit then takes both one of his swords and Fire’s and heads toward him. “Wait! Don’t! ” The spirit then cuts both the chains. “Stop! ” He then cuts the cuffs and gives Fire’ his sword back. A couple of minutes later, a guard and Zhao head down to check up on the guards and see that two guard are asleep and hanging from the ceiling while the third is on the floor. The guard goes to the top floor to tell everypony what has happened.
“Fools.” Zhou said.
The guard that was with him goes to a tower. “Close the inner gates! The Fire Avatar has escaped! ” They do so. A couple of soldiers are about to enter a tunnel when fire comes out and they are thrown back. Firebrand and the mask vigilant exit the tunnel soon after. The soldiers get ready for a fight.
“Lock down the gate! Lock down all the gates! ” A solider yelled out. A solider appears from behind in the tunnel with a flamethrower and shots at the two. They dodge and Firebrand bends the fire to get rid of some of the soldiers. Fire’ moves toward a stone circle with pliers holding another circle, hanging from it some boards.
“This looks like it was their main practice area.” Fire’ then uses his firebending to make the fir move the boards out evenly. Then he uses the fire to close the area off, trapping a solider in. Fire’ then trips him on his back and throws him out. The spirit has taken out 20 soldiers and is ready to take care of a few more. Fire’ uses his firebending to throw some more Fire Nation troops away. The spirit and Fire’ eventually do a back to back.
Zhao then yells out at the soldiers “Do not kill the Fire Avatar! He’ll just be reborn again! ” The Spirit then goes around Fire’ and places one of his swords at Fire’s neck. “Why are you doing this? Who are you?” The spirit says nothing in response. After a moment, Zhao realize that the spirit will kill Fire’ if they don’t go. “Open the gates. Let them out! ” The spirit with Fire’ in tow begins to take his leave. Zhao then heads to a tower.
“Is it a some kind of Spirit, Commander?”
“Not at all.” He then turns to a solider holding a bow and arrow. “Do it.”
He fires the arrow and it hits the pony’s mask on the other side of the bridge, breaking the mask and knocking him out. The soldiers at the temple see this and charge. Firebrand then removes the mask and sees Prince Zuko. Fire’ then uses both his firebending and his sword to make a distraction so they can get away. Using fire from nearby torches, he makes a small inferno that engulfs part of the bridge, stoping the troopers. Zhao sees it and wonders for a moment. “What is this?” When the smoke finally clears, both Firebrand and Zuko are gone.
==================================================================
The next morning in a forest, Fire’ is sitting near Zuko, waiting to see if he’s OK. He then leaves before Zuko wakes up.
==================================================================
In the Fire Nation, Zhao is heading for the Fire Lord’s chamber to discuss what happened. “And how did he escape?”
“I fear your son is not only incompetent, but also a traitor. Of course, I cannot prove this, sire.”
“You think...” the Fire Lord angrily said, “my son is this pony the soldiers are calling the Blue Spirit.”
“Yes.” Zhao firmly said.
“Do not harm my son. Leave him to his isolation.” The Fire Lord firmly said.
“You have my word, sire. I will not harm him.”
==================================================================
Back at Fire Nation Colony 15, Zuko walks up to his Uncle who is getting a hoof message. “Zhao’s troops were searching the coast, looking for you. They also searched the ship. I told them you were on a vacation with a girl. Where were you for the past 4 days?”
“Nowhere.” Zuko said after a moment. “We have to keep moving. The Fire Avatar is traveling again.”
“Take rest first. It looks like you went through a great deal. When you wake, we’ll have tea together before we start the engines.”
“All right uncle.” Zuko then heads to his ship.
In Zuko’s bead chamber, he is getting ready to go to sleep. He gets in bed, but he smells something. It is gas. He looks for the source and sees a gas pipe leaking on an open flame. He then runs as fast as he can. Outside, Iroh sees Zuko's bed chamber explode, and pushes the hoof massager out-of-the-way. “ZUKO! ”
==================================================================
At the North Pole, the group arrive. They are ridding in a boat to avoid any Fire Nation troops looking up to the sky. “I hate the cold.” Fire’ said while shivering.
“Cheer up Fire.’” Twilight said to him. “We’ll be at Pegasus City soon.”
==================================================================
"And what of the Fire Avatar?" The Fire Lord asked Zhao
"We assume he has rejoined his supporters." Zhao said. "It has been conformed he is traveling north. I believe that the colt is telling the truth about him only being able to bend only one element, and like the prophecy said, that there are four more Avatars. It is also my strong believe he is traveling to Pegasus City at the North Pole, possibly to find the Avatar of Water. I also believe that Celestia and Luna are seeking aid, if we are to attack Equestria."
==================================================================
The group then see some pegasi flying and are taken to the city. They see a giant wall of ice move so they can enter. Once they do, they are greeted by the inhabitants, who are all pegasi. The city itself is made up of a giant block of ice. "This place is amazing." Rainbow said as they are led to the royal court.
The Elements of Nature, Book 1: 火 & 水 (Fire & Water)
The Elements of Nature
“Celestia, Luna, we’ve been expecting you. I am Chief Arnook, and this is my son and daughter, Sokka and Agua.” Arnook, said, a stallion Pegasus with a blue coat, an ice blue mane and tail, and brown eyes. His cutie mark is a trident. He is accompanied by his son and younger daughter, who's the same age as Firebrand. The older son’s name is Sokka, he has an ocean blue coat, a pure white mane and tail, and yellow eyes. His cutie mark is 3 ice crystals. The daughter, who's name is Agua, has an aqua blue coat, an ice white mane and tail, and sky blue eyes. Her cutie mark is a wave on the ocean.
"Man, that colt next to the chief sure is hot! " Rainbow thought to herself.
"That rainbow maned pegasus sure is cute. " Sokka thought to himself.
“So, is your hooded friend, the Avatar of Fire?” Chief Arnook asked.
“I won’t tell you, I’ll show you.” Firebrand then removes his cape and gives both the cape and sword to Twilight. He then does some techniques that came naturally to him, he takes the fire from some torches and creates a fire tornado 3 stories high.
“Impressive. But I have a feeling that there's another reason your here, besides to gain a friend against the Fire Nation.”
“True...” Fire’ began to say, “When I was in the Spirit World last, I spoke to a dragon spirit. He told me that the Water Avatar is somewhere in the city.” Sokka and Agua then look at each other in worry. “He also told me that the Fire Nation is going to attack soon, and that during the attack, the moon will become blood-red and Luna will die not long after the moon turns red.” Celestia then turns to Luna, who is horrified by what she just heard.
“We need to prepare." Chief Arnook began to say. "The Fire Nation will be here in weeks.”
==================================================================
Later at a briefing room, the Chief is showing them a map of the city and discussing battle plans with them. The city itself is circular and hidden by the giant wall of ice outside. “The city was design to withstand any assault. If we keep them to the courtyard and the marketplace till night falls, where we have the advantaged, we will succeed. If we let too many into the city, their sheer numbers could overwhelm us.” Arnook said. He then turns to his daughter and son. “I must assign a guard to be with you two at all times. Your presence is our inspiration. Firebrand, I want you to guard my daughter.”
“I’ll do it. Nothing will happen to her.” Fire' said.
“I’ll help guard your son.” Rainbow said soon after.
“I had a feeling you might volunteer, Rainbow.” Arnook said.
==================================================================
In the Fire Nation, Fire Lord Ozia is talking to Zhao about his son. “I’ve heard no word of my son for quit some time. Do you know where he is?”
“I’ve not heard of anything, sire. I’m sure word of him will come to us soon.”
“The North Pole pegasi are given their strength by the Moon and Ocean Spirits, just like all other pegasi. They will be difficult to defeat. Now, if for some reason the Sprites were not involved, that would be different. What have you learned from the stolen scrolls?” Ozia asked Zhao.
“We have deciphered the location of the Moon and Ocean Spirits.” Zhao said to his ruler.
Ozia then walks to a balcony and turns to Zhao. “It is our destiny to have found this information, Zhao. Eliminate the Spirits, take the city and we will have thwarted all 5 of the Avatars in the process.” Later, the Fire Nation begins to send its navy to the North pole.
==================================================================
Back at Pegasus City, Chief Arnook is walking with Celestia and Luna when the Cutie Mark Crusaders stop them. “Uh, sorry for stopping you, but we want to know something.” Scootaloo said.
“What is it?” Luna asked.
“Why does the Fire Nation fear the Avatar?” Sweetie Belle asked.
After a moment, Arnook spoke, “Thats a good question. Come.” He takes them to his study, he then takes a scroll and places it on a table. “Once, a long time ago, when Celestia and Luna were younger than you Apple Bloom, the Spirit World kept balance over us.” He then opens the scroll, reveling a map of the Spirit World.
“What is the Spirit World, Arnook?” Apple Bloom said to him.
“It’s not a place made up of things you can touch. But it exists, nonetheless. It is filled with the amazing forms of dazzling creatures that exist in the most exotic valleys, mountains and forests. Each of these creatures is a Spirit. They’ve have watched over us since the beginning. The have guided us. And only the Avatar can go speak to them.”
“Arn’t there Spirits here?” Sweetie Belle asked.
“Yes, there are some Spirits that live hidden among us, sure some of them are watching us with great sadness. The Fire Nation doesn't want to live by the Spirits. That's why they’re so frightened by the existence of the Avatar. It is also why they put a curse on the Avatar spirit so that it can’t reincarnate, which is why the Avatar has became a myth to manny. But they hadn't considered that the Avatar spirit can be divided. That is why there are 5 Avatars now, each representing a different element.”
“What can the Avatars do?”
“With there mastery over the 5 known elements, they will begin to change hearts. And it is within the heart that all wars are won.”
“Who was the last Avatar?” Scootaloo asked them.
“The last Avatar was an alicorn named Roku. He was also Celestia’s and Luna’s father.”
“Wait, our father was the last Avatar!” Luna said out of shock.
“Yes, I’m not surprised you didn't know. You were probably too young to remember him when he died.” Luna then stares at her sister, who is equally shock.
==================================================================
In the royal library of Pegasus City, Firebrand, Agua, and Twilight are trying to find some information about the bending arts. “I think I found something.” Twilight said as she found a scroll with water patterns on it.
“That looks like a waterbending scroll. I’ve only heard about these.” Agua said.
Twilight opens it and sees that it shows ponies practicing T’ai Chi Ch’uan, specifically the Yang style. “It says here that water it the flowing element. The element of change. It also says that to master water, you must realize your emotions, wherever they may lead you. Water teaches acceptance, apparently. To let your emotions flow like water.”
“Weird. It's not the same with firebending.” Firebrand said.
==================================================================
Later that night, Firebrand and Twilight are looking for Agua. “Her dad is gonna kill me if we don't find her soon.” Fire' said.
“We’ll find her.” Twilight reassured.
They soon arrive at the side of a river and see Agua on the shore. She is doing T’ai Chi Ch’uan by the river. Each time she moves, some water and ice move also. Fire’ and Twilight are stunned by what they see. “Let you emotions flow like water." Agua thought to herself. When she lifts her hoofs, the water in not just the lake, but also in fountains and jugs begin to float. She then stops and the water goes back down.
“Agua?” She jumped when she heard he name and sees Twilight and Fire’ staring dumbfound at her. “Your the Avatar of Water?” Twilight asked.
“Yes, I am.”
“Who else knows?” Fire' asked.
“My brother knows, but not my father.”
“How long did you know you could bend water?” Twilight asked.
“Since I was around Sweetie Belle’s age. When I was doing it today, I thought about my mother. I think that helped. You heard what the scroll said.”
“Yes, but why were you thinking about your mother?” Fire' asked.
“She died when I was around 4.” Agua said as she begins to cry.
“You know what the scroll said, water teaches us acceptance.” Twilight sheepishly said.
==================================================================
Meanwhile out at the edge of the Arctic Circle, the Fire Nation fleet, consisting of 15 or more ships, is moving around some icebergs. Zhao is on the bow of his ship when Iroh arrives. “General Iroh, I’m glade you could accept my invitation to join us on this historic event.”
“Your invitation was most gracious.” Iroh said to the commander.
“You are a gifted strategist. No one can argue that. Your failure in the Hundred Day Siege of Ba Sing Se won’t be held against you. Your son died in that siege, didn't he?” Zhao coldly said.
Iroh pauses for a moment. “Yes, he did.” Iroh sadly said.
“Again, I offer my condolences on your nephew burning to death in that terrible accident.” Zhoa said, showing no sing of his 'condolences.'
“Thank you.” Iroh said as he leaves.
==================================================================
Sokka and Rainbow are taking a walk around the city. Some residents bow to the Prince. “I’ve loved spending these weeks with you, Sokka.” Rainbow said, only to blush soon after. “Did I say that out loud?”
“Yes, you did. Me, to. Should we see what the ocean is doing today?” Sokka asked Rainbow. They then head for the outer wall. They reach the wall, some lookouts are watching the horizon for any sing of the Fire Nation. “When there is some safety for all of us, I will come visit the city of Cloudsdale in Equestria and spend some time in your home.”
“That would be great. But I warn you, my family will ask you many questions.”
“Like what?” Sokka asked.
“Well, my grandmother will say, ‘Why is your mane and tail pure white, colt? You look very odd.’”
“I would say to your grandmother, my mane and tail are white because when I was born I was not awake. My mother and father could not get me to make a sound or move. So they prayed for days to the Moon Spirit and dipped me into the sacred waters. My mother said, before she died, that my mane and tail turned white and life poured into me.”
“Wow. You didn't tell me that.”
“You didn't ask me. Only your grandmother did.”
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Back on Zhao’s ship. Iroh is making sure that no one is around. “I’m sure Zhao is the who ordered the attack on you.” He said to Zuko, who survived the explosion and is now disguised as a solider. They then sit down.
“Any problems?” Zuko asked.
“We have arrived at the Pegasus City stronghold. They believe the Fire Avatar, as well as the Avatar of Water is there.”
“Why do you seem so upset, Uncle?”
“Zhao has no sacredness. Are you sure you want to be here?”
After a moment, Zuko gives his answer. “I will not be allowed to live in peace until I bring at least one of the Avatars to my father! Is that not clear to you? ”
==================================================================
Twilight and Firebrand are helping Agua practice her waterbending thanks to the scroll they found. “Agua, try to keep your wrist bent, like it’s showing.” Twilight told her. It is almost afternoon when suddenly, when there was light snow, was now replaced by a black substance. The residents of the city also notice.
“Oh, black snow! I bet it taste a lot better than yellow snow!” Pinkie said to her friends. She is about to eat some when Applejack stops her.
“Whoa, Nelly. Easy Pinks.” AJ said to her.
“Uh, Pinkie, I don’t think this is ... snow.” Rarity told her out of worry.
Back at the tower Rainbow and Sokka are at, he holds his hoof out and pulls it back in with whats falling. “What is this?”
“Trouble, that's ash, that means only one thing." Rainbow said, causing Sokka to look at he puzzling. "Sokka ... the Fire Nation is here.”
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The warships soon arrive at the outer wall, ready to attack. At the back of Zhou’s ship, Zuko is heading outside and getting into a canoe, wearing a white body suit. His uncle is with him, but he is staying on the ship to avoid suspicion. “Now be sure to keep your uniform closed up to your neck. And remember, your Chi can warm you.”
Zuko nods in understanding, “I know, Uncle.” He then leaves, making his way to the wall.
“Be safe.” Iroh said to Zuko before he leaves. Outside of both sides field of vision, he puts on a hood hiding all of his head except his eyes. He swims underwater into some ice caves that go under the city. He goes near the surface, under the city. He sees light and realizes that the ice is thin here. He tries to break it, but it's too thick. He then remembers what his uncle taught him. He places his hoofs to the ice and concentrates. His hoofs begin to glow a bright orange. The water begins to boil and the ice begins to melt. He then breaks through the ice.
The Elements of Nature, Book 1: 火 & 水 (Fire & Water)
Chapter 7, Siege on the North
The Elements of Nature
On the balcony, the main 6, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Firebrand, Agua, Sokka, Celestia, Luna, Cadence, Shining and the Chief see the Fire Nation ships. “Firebrand needs to ask you something, Arnook.” Twilight said.
“I have to talk to the Dragon Spirit. He can help me defeat the Fire Nation. Is there a spiritual place where I can meditate?”
“There is a very spiritual place. The city was built around this place. But we must hurry.”
They leave and head toward the center of Pegasus City. Zuko is following them on the roofs, staying out of sight due to his white uniform. They enter a tunnel that has statues of two koi fish in the front. Inside there are two ponds and grass around them. There even is a cherry tree in bloom.
Near a pond that has two koi fish in it, one being black with a white spot on its head while the other is the exact opposite in color, who are circling each other. “In my home of Abysus, there are monks who can meditate for at least 4 days at a time. My grandfather was one of these monks. I’ll need some peace and quiet right now.” He then gets down and begins to meditate. He looks at the two fish, which morph into an image of the symbols for yin and yang. His eyes then begin to glow.
“Father, would it be all right if I stay behind and mediate with him?” Agua asked.
“Yes, it would. Just be safe.” She then gets down next to Firebrand and begins to meditate. “We need to get back.” The Chief said.
“I’ll stay with them.” Twilight said as Agua's eyes glow blue.
“Be carful.” Shining told his little sister. After they leave, Twilight walks slowly to the two Avatars.
“Firebrand? Agua? Can you hear me?” There is no response. “I knew about the Avatar since I was young. But I never believed it. But for some reason, I knew you were real. And I always knew you’d return, no matter how manny times I was told you weren't real.” Twilight said with all her heart.
“Me, too.” Twilight turns around and sees Zuko, out of his white uniform and holding a torch.
“The Fire Lord’s son. You took Fire’ from Ponyville.” Twilight said when she recognizes Zuko. Zuko then puts the torch down to the ground and the grass begins to burn. Zuko then takes out a small flamethrower (which is really a toy) and shoots (he's using firebending). Twilight creates a shield and blocks the fire. Zuko then drops the toy and uses his firebending, but Twilight blocks it again.
“Who are you?” Zuko asked the clearly talented Unicorn mare.
“My name is Twilight Sparkle, and I am Princess Celestia’s faithful student and wielder of the Element of Magic.” Zuko then shots another fire blast, but also makes another one when Twilight is paying only attention to the first. She blokes the first but the second hits and Twilight is sent flying across the chamber.
Zuko then hears a Pegasus guard striking the warning bell as the Fire Nation moves closer, as well as all the soldiers escorting the civilians to shelters on the far side of the city. Zuko then moves an unconscious Twilight so she is facing up. “I’m not allowed to go home without at least one of them.”
==================================================================
On the outer wall, the soldiers are standing, waiting for the order or waiting for the Fire Nation to attack. Arnook then shouts a long "Oooooooh! " causing the soldiers to bag their spears on the ground multiple times, the signal to be ready for anything. The younger soldiers are terrified by what they see, an entire fleet of Fire Nation ships, 7 carriers, 12 destroyers, and 25 smaller ships.
==================================================================
On Zhao’s ship, he and Iroh are discussing their plan. “The pegasi get their power from the moon. They will get stronger as the day comes to an end.” Iroh said.
“General Iroh, I’ve been keeping a secret.” Zhao said.
“And what is that?” Iroh asked.
“In my raid of the Great Library earlier this year, I found a scroll that tells the location of the Ocean and Moon Spirits.” Zhao said as he studies the battle plan.
“To meet a Spirit would be a great honor.” Iroh said.
“Well, I hope I can give you that honor.” Zhao said.
==================================================================
On a smaller ship that made it to the wall, a Fire Nation soldier climbs on the back of a giant Komodo Dragon. They begin to climb the wall of the city while fire balls fly across the sky and hit both the wall but also the city. Once they get on top, he pulls out a flamethrower and shots. Meanwhile, some Fire Nation solders are using drills to break through the ice underneath the city.
==================================================================
Back at the sacred ponds, Shining finds Twilight unconscious but breathing. The others soon join him. Twilight begins to wake up. “What happened?” Cadence asked her.
“Prince Zuko is here in the city. He took both Fire’ and Agua.” Twilight said out of worry.
==================================================================
In a storage room, Zuko places both Fire’ and Agua next to some barrels. He then heads to a window and sees what is happening outside. “We’ll just wait till everypony’s fighting everypony. Then in the night, we’ll slip out.”
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In the Spirit World, both Firebrand and Agua see that they made it. “Is this the Spirit World?” Agua asked.
“Yes, it is. Come on, I know where the Dragon Spirit is at.” They run for the Dragon Spirit’s cave to speck with him.
“Hello! Hello!” Agua yelled out as they make it to the Dragon Spirit’s cave and find him inside. “Please,” Agua said, “tell us how to beat the Fire Nation!”
The spirit then heads toward Agua. “You are not dealing with the loss of your mother, Water Avatar Agua. You are stopping yourself from grieving. You are angry. You must let this go.
As the Avatars, you are not meant to hurt others.” The Dragon Spirit then slithers past the two and out of the cave, but then peers back at Agua. “Use the ocean, Agua. Show them the power of water. Go! Do this now.” The spirit then flies off as they begin to here Zuko talking.
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“My younger sister, Azula, was always the special one. She was a karate prodigy. My father loves her.” After a moment, Zuko sighs, “He can’t even look at me sometimes. He says I'm like my mother.” Agua and Firebrand then make their escape, with Zuko in hot pursuit. He uses some firebending and breaks a pot they were behind.
==================================================================
On a warship, some Fire Nation soldiers use a giant flamethrower to melt a hole in the wall. Once they do that, others riding Mongoose dragons enter, followed by some foot soldiers. They go on a rampage. One of the pegasi warriors is using his weather magic to his advantage, by creating clouds that shoot lightning. Other pegasi are doing the same while others use swords and spears. One is even creating a small tornado. “I advise that you pull back your soldiers soon. They will be trap in the city when Luna brings the moon’s power out.” Iroh said to Zhao.
“Do not worry about the moon’s power, General Iroh.”
“Why should you not be worry about the moon’s power?”
“Because your brother, Fire Lord Ozia, and I have decided it is our best interest to kill the Moon Spirit.”
“What?” Iroh said, shocked.
==================================================================
Back at the storeroom, Zuko is looking for Fire’ and Agua. He finds the ropes he used to tie them with on fire on the floor. He begins to walk to them when Agua uses her waterbending to make a jug full of water move, attracting Zuko's attention. Fire’ and Agua are now right behind Zuko, moving to stay out of sight. Zuko then turns around and tries to hit Fire’ but misses. He continues to throw punches but they either miss or they are block. Agua tries to get help but Zuko grabs her. She throws a punch to his shoulder.
==================================================================
Not far away, the others are looking for Zuko, Firebrand, and Agua. “Why would the Fire Lord’s son want my daughter?”
“Because, she's the Avatar of Water, father.” Sokka said.
“What? Why didn’t you tell me this earlier Sokka?” Arnook said out of shock.
“Because she thought it would be best not to tell you until we were sure.”
“Calm down y’all, we’ll find them.” Applejack said to the two. Twilight the stops and sees some fire in a storage room.
==================================================================
In there, Zuko is using his firebending while Fire’ uses his to stop the attacks along with Agua with her water bending. Then a magic beam fires at Zuko and he is frozen in ice. Fire’ and Agua see Twilight who did it. The others soon join her. The Chief and Sokka huge Agua out of relief.
Twilight then looks at Firebrand. “Are you OK? Did the Spirits tell you anything?”
“Yes. The Dragon Spirit talked to us. We know what to do.”
“Firebrand, we have to go.” Celestia said.
The others soon leave, but Firebrand goes to a window and sees what is going on outside. He then heads to the hallway, but before he does so, he pulls out his sword and melts the ice around Zuko’s head so he can breathe. “You won’t be killed by any pegasi if you stay hidden here.” Fire’ then heads for the door. “And thanks for saving me from Zhao’s soldiers. We have a lot in common. We could be friends, you know.” Fire’ said as he leaves.
==================================================================
At the wall, Zhao, Iroh, and some soldiers are entering the city. They see that the pegasi and Fire Nation troops are at a stand still. “There getting stronger.” A soldier then hands Zhao a scroll. “This is a scroll from the Grate Library. This is our map. Our world is going to change soon, gentlecolts.”
Soon, the main 6, the Cutie Mark Crusader, Firebrand, Agua, Sokka, the Chief, Celestia, Luna, Cadence, and Shining are heading to the wall when they see Zhao, Iroh, and there soldiers going across the bridge.
“See where there going! Me and Agua will go join the fight!”
“I’m coming with you.” Twilight firmly said.
“All right.”
“Wait!” Arnook said, “I need to get you something, Agua.” He then flies to the armory. He opens a cabinet and pulls out a trident with water patterns on it, and 3 water sapphires for the sharp points. He then flies back and gives it to Agua. “This belong to your mother, she wanted me to give this to you when I realized your destiny. Today, I found that destiny.” He then hugs her and kisses her on the forehead. “Be safe.”
“I will father.” She, Firebrand and Twilight then leave while the others follow Zhao. They jump and land behind 4 pegasi who are having trouble with some Fire Nation troops. They use there firebending and waterbending, as well as their weapons, to send them flying.
==================================================================
In the storage room, Zuko closes his eyes as he concentrates. Steam than appears as the ice begins to crack. The reason for this is that his hoofs are on fire, but he isn't being burned by it.
==================================================================
At the sacred spring, Zhao and Iroh arrive. They stop in front of the pond that has the koi fish. “They are called many names: Yin and Yang, push and pull. May I introduce you to the mysterious Ocean and Moon Spirits?” Zhao then removes his helmet and gets a small black bag. He then captures the Moon Spirit (the white one with the black dot). They hear some ice cracking above them. “Why do Spirits take the form of such benign things? It leaves them so vulnerable.” Zhao asks Iroh.
“To teach us and other sentient species kindness and humility. Commander Zhao, there are certain things that creature-kind should not tamper with. The Spirits and the Spirit World is one of them.” Celestia, Luna, Candace, Shining, Rainbow, Sokka, the Chief, the CMC, Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie, and Rarity arrive and see whats going on.
“What are you doing here?” Chief Arnook said.
“Stop, Zhao.” Iroh said, “The world will be out of balance. Everypony will be hurt.”
“The Fire Nation is too powerful ... to worry about foal's superstitions, General Iroh.”
“Commander Zhao, don’t.”
Zhao then looks at the Cutie Mark Crusaders, who are making puppy dog eyes for him to stop. He then pulls out a knife. After a few moments, Zhao makes his decision. “We are now the gods!” He then stabs the Moon Spirit, killing it.
“NO! ” Iroh yells out as Prince Sokka falls to the ground while Luna begins to shake and then falls.
“Luna!” Celestia called out.
“I ... can’t ... breath!” Luna said, unable to breath.
==================================================================
Outside in the fight, both Firebrand and Agua get painful headaches. “Are you all right!?” Twilight asked them.
“No. No were not, the Moon Spirit has been killed. Look.” Firebrand than points to the moon as it turns blood-red. The pegasi then loss their ability to control weather, some even fall through the clouds as they try to land on them.
==================================================================
Back at the sacred spring, Celestia tries to comfort her dying sister, who has returned to the way she was when she was freed from Nightmare Moon by the Elements of Harmony. Rainbow then tries to attack Zhao, but Iroh stops her. “Leave him to me, Element of Loyalty.” Iroh said.
Zhao then laughs at Iroh. “Being a traitor won’t help you.” He said. "You have no weapons. You know what your problem is. You and your long forgotten ways are far too soft, General Iroh.“ Iroh’s eyes then turn a flame red.
"Tell me, Zhao, if I'm too soft, how am I able to do this." He then stands on his hind lags. He then does a strange technique thats like Firebrands. His hoofs then catch on fire and he shoots out flames from them that are at least 6 feet in length each, burning with an intensity that can rival a fully grown dragons fire.
“He’s making fire out of nothing!” The troops then run, leaving Zhao behind. Iroh points one of his burning hoofs at him. He then runs with the other Fire Nation soldiers. Iroh then stops and looks at the pond with the main 6 (mines Twilight), the CMC, Sokka, the Chief, Celestia, Cadence, and Shining, and see the dead Moon Spirit and the Ocean Spirit circling it.
==================================================================
Outside in the red night, the Fire Nation is winning. Firebrand, Agua, and Twilight watch in horror at what has happened. Fire’ & Agua then remember what the Dragon Spirit said to them, “As the Avatars, you are not meant to hurt others. You must show them the power of Water, Agua. ”
==================================================================
At the sacred spring, Celestia is beginning to mourn for Luna, whose eyes are turning white, while the others stare at the dead Moon Spirit. “All is lost.” Sokka said.
Iroh then notices Sokka’s white mane and tail. “You have been anointed by the Moon Spirit.”
“He gave me life when I was a foal.”
“Then theres still a chance.” The others then look at Iroh. “You can give your life back for the Spirit’s.”
“Don’t listen to him, he's Fire Nation.” Rainbow said to Sokka.
“Nothing is ever truly lost.” Iroh said to Sokka.
“Is it mine if I give it back, if I choose?” Sokka asked.
“There are reasons each of us are born that go beyond our cutie marks. We have to find those reasons.” Iroh said, being a clear example due to him being a Firebender.
Sokka then looks at Luna, who’s slipping. She then looks to his father, who is hoping he will make the right choice. “This was the reason I was born.” Sokka finally said.
“Sokka, please.” Rainbow said.
“There is no love without sacrifice.” Sokka said to Rainbow.
“Sokka, what are you doing? You don’t know what will happen.”
“I believe my life force will leave my body and return to the Moon Spirit, Rainbow.”
“And then what?”
“My soul will no longer exist in this form.”
“Please, don’t do this. There must be another way. I can’t let you do this. I’m supposed to protect you.”
“My people are dying, Rainbow. Those who are in charge of others have a responsibility. It is time we show the Fire Nation we believe in our beliefs as much as they believe in theres.”
“But Sokka...”
“Rainbow Dash.” Rainbow then turns and sees Celestia looking at her. “Let him do it.”
“Alright.” Rainbow said in agreement.
“The spirits gave me a vision when you were born, Sokka. I saw a brave colt giving life to the Moon Spirit. I knew this day would come.” Arnook said to his son.
Sokka then turns to Rainbow, “I will miss you more than you know.” He then kisses her before he walks into the sacred springs. He goes on his back, then a bright light appears as Sokka’s life force returns to the Moon Spirit, who come back to life. Sokka’s mane and tail then turn black as The Moon Spirit then begins to swim, and Luna returns to her original form.
==================================================================
Outside, the Fire Nation soldiers take notice as the pegasi have regain their power as the moon glows white again. Agua, Firebrand and Twilight stare at the now normal moon. Zhao also sees that the moon has return to its original color. The fight then continues.
==================================================================
Shining then uses his magic to pull Sokka out as the moon returns to its original glow. When Shining lets his lifeless body down, both Rainbow and Arnook begin to cry. Iroh then leaves. “We need to find Zhao.” Celestia said to Luna, who nods in agreement. They soon leave.
==================================================================
On a bridge Zhao is on, he hears something coming and braces himself. He sees that its Zuko. “I killed you.”
Zuko then gets ready for a fight, when Iroh appears behind him. “Come away from him, nephew. There are too many soldiers now. They will never let you take one of the Avatars. We must leave immediately. He wants to fight you so he can capture you, Zuko. Walk away! Come!”
Zuko then begins to head for his uncle. Zhao then pulls out a small flamethrower and fires at the two, but Iroh puts his front hoofs together and diverts the flames with his firebending. “You stand alone." Iroh said. "And that has always been your great mistake.” Zuko and Iroh then disappear in the fog.
Zhao turns around and sees four pegasi behind him, all of them wearing a white robe. He fires, but it misses as his mini flamethrower runs out of gas. He then throw it away and makes a stand. The pegasi then raise one of their front hoofs. Then, water from below surges up in 4 pillars that then engulf Zhao.
They then lift the ball of water up with Zhao in it into the air. Zhao struggles to escape, but after a few moments, he stops moving. The four pegasi then let him fall. He's dead. They then leave and go join the fight.
==================================================================
Shining, Cadence, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie, Applejack, Rainbow, the CMC, and Chief Arnook find Twilight, Firebrand, and Agua and head for them. “Theres so many.” Fire’ said to Twilight.
“Keep fighting.” She replied.
“Fire,' Agua, Twilight...” Rainbow said to them as she heads toward them, “You have to do something. Sokka is dead!”
“What!?” Agua said in shock.
“He sacrificed him self to save the Moon Spirit.” Cadence told them.
Firebrand, Agua and Twilight head for the wall. “Do it for Sokka!” Rainbow yelled.
After dodging an attack from a Fire Nation trooper, Agua makes a pillar of ice pop out and sends the trooper flying. Fire’ then jumps over another and melts the ice he was standing on, with the Fire Nation solider falling through. Fire’ then shots some fire from his burning sword and sends a Fire Nation trooper who was going to attack Twilight flying while Agua pulls out some ice spikes and encircles some Fire Nation soldiers, trapping them. Fire’ sends some more flying while Agua moves some water around a trooper, trapping him also.
“Twilight, clear us a path!” Fire’ told her.
“I’m on it.” She then uses her magic to push back soldiers on both sides so they can get to the wall. Once there clear, she stops and the fighting continues. The three then climb the wall, passing a few soldiers before reaching the top. Once they do, they see the Fire Nation ships and how many there are.
Agua the heads to the edge and stops. She remembers what the waterbending scroll said, "Water teaches us acceptance. Let your emotions flow like water.” She then closes her eyes and remembers her mother. She was an aqua blue Pegasus with a sky blue mane and tail and amber eyes.
She and Agua are playing together by a small river. She then remembers her and her brother Sokka playing with a red kite. She then remembers her mother reading her a bedtime story, but she then coughs a little. The she is in a hospital with her family. She then dies in front of them. Back in the present, Agua sheds a tear and begins to waterbend. The water below begins to react, it begins to climb gradually.
Eventually it begins to climb so fast that is smashes a portable bridge that connected a hole and a Fire Nation ship. On the wall, Agua’s eyes, mane and hoofs begin to glow blue as she continues to waterbend. The battle below sees the giant wall of water, now taller than the ice wall, and stare dumb fondly. The Fire Nation soldiers then try to make a run for it, but they can’t get through the water. Agua then pushes the water over the ships at least half a mile long.
The water becomes so thick that the Fire Nation ships can no longer see the full moon. They begin to flee out of fear. Iroh and Zuko see the wall of water in a small life boat, several hundred feet from the closest ship. The Fire Nation ships then leave, and when they are a safe distance, Agua lowers the water and leaves her Avatar State. Agua has a hard time standing for a moment, when she opens her eyes, she sees Twilight and Firebrand looking at her in aw. She then sees that the Fire Nation is retreating. “I did it.”
“I did it.”
“Yes, you did, sister.” Firebrand said.
“Sister?” Twilight ask him.
“Yes, I mean, we do have the same spirit, it's just divided.”
“Hey, what happened to my hoof, mane and tail?” Agua asked when she notices that her hoofs are now ice white with wave patterns on them while her mane and tail have aqua blue streaks on them.
They then hear the Pegasus City soldiers cheer for both her and the Fire Nation retreating.
“Come on, sis. Lets get down there.”
“All right, bro.” Agua said as they make their way down.
Once they get down they see everypony in the city is their, in front are Celestia, Luna, Cadence, Shining, Arnook, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom. They then bow before Fire’ and Agua, even the captured Fire Nation soldiers bow. Twilight soon joins them and bows. Firebrand and Agua then bow back, the two accepting there destinies.
The Elements of Nature, Book 1: 火 & 水 (Fire & Water)
Chapter 1, The Fire Inside
Chapter 1, The Fire Inside
The Elements of Nature
Fire, Lightning, Air, Water, Earth
Long ago, before the regal wing unicorn sisters were born, the world was protected by a powerful being called the Avatar. The Avatar was the only one able to control all the Elements of Harmony at once, but he is also able to control their counterparts, the Elements of Nature. Only five of the Elements of Nature are known, the known ones are fire, water, earth, lighting, and air. Like the Elements of Harmony, the Elements of Nature have physical form, but they are also part of the Avatar’s soul. Because of this, he or she is able to control each element with relative ease, even if they are thousands of miles apart. The Avatar is also the only one who can communicate to the Spirit World, listening to the Spirits’ guidance to keep balance in the world. Whenever the Avatar dies, his or her soul is reincarnated into a new body. Each time he is reincarnated he becomes one of the 4 types of ponies in a cycle in this order: Unicorn, Earth Pony, Pegasus, and Alicorn. Then one day, for no clear reason, the last Avatar, an Alicorn named Roku, the father of Celestia and Luna, vanished. No one knows what happened to him. An ancient prophecy states the will return, but in five different bodies, each representing a different element. Most have considered the Avatar and benders, ponies who are able to control one of the elements only, as a bedtime story, but some believe he will return one day to return balance, and that day has finally come.
In the Ponyville library, Twilight Sparkle is busy reading about a new spell. “Lets see, ‘To cast the shape shifting spell, one must imagine what he or she wants to become.’ Easy as pie.” She tries it, but she only changes the color of her coat from lavender to red.
Spike walks in and sees what happen and laughs until he runs out of breath. The spell soon wears off and she turns back to normal. “Well, that didn't work.” It had been a few months since the changelings tried to invade Equestria. Twilight became curious about how they were able to disguise themselves, so she read every book she could find in the library about shapeshifting. “Lets try this again.”
“You want me to take notes about how funny you looked?” Spike then laughs.
Suddenly, Rainbow Dash comes in. “Twilight, you are not gonna believe this. There's a new unicorn in town from a place called Abysus!”
“So?”
“So? He can make fire do whatever he wants. He can actually be in an inferno and not even get signed.” Rainbow said, impressed by the newcomers abilities.
“OK, now I'm interested. Come on Spike.” Twilight, Rainbow, and Spike then head to the outdoor theater. They're soon joined by Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Almost every other pony in Ponyville is also there waiting for the show to start.
“So, y’all know who this colt is?” Applejack ask.
Rarity then takes a look at the poster. “According to the poster his name is Firebrand the Firebender. Huh, catchy.”
“Oh, I bet he’s Spitfire’s cousin.” Pinkie said in her own crazy way.
“I don’t think Spitfire has a cousin from a country called Abysus.”
“Rainbow has a point there.” They all turn around and see that the Wonderbolts are standing right behind them, Spitfire among them.
“Ohmygosh!Ohmygosh!Ohmygosh!Ohmygosh!Ohmygosh!” Rainbow said before fainting.
“What are y’all doing here in little o’ Ponyville” Apple Bloom asked.
“We were flying nearby when we heard about the show and decided to check it out.” Sorin' said.
“Hey, everypony!” Sweetie Belle cried out “The show is about to start!” Soon all the ponies in the area turn toward the stage. Rainbow gets up just in time to see what's going on. On the stage, fire begins to envelop it but it suddenly disperses revealing a stallion unicorn, at least a year older than Twilight, with a flame red coat, his mane and tail are orange and charcoal black eyes. His cutie mark is a ball of fire.
“Mares and gentlecolts, I am Firebrand, the Firebender. For my first act, I will need a volunteer.” The ponies in the crowd are arguing whether they should volunteer or not. “Well, if one won't step forward, I will have to pick one instead.” He looks around in the crowd and sees Twilight and smiles. “Lets have this young unicorn with the star cutie mark over there.” Realizing he means her, Twilight nervously walks up onto the stage. Her friends are worried for her safety.
“What's your name?”
“Twilight Sparkle.”
“Well, Twilight Sparkle, are you ready?” She nervously nodded yes. “Good.” Firebrand then uses his telekinesis to bring over a white cotton blanket and gently places it over Twilight. The blanket and his magic have a red-orange glow to it. “No magic and no screaming.” He told her.
“Why?”
“You’ll see.” He then drops the blanket over her and it covers her head to hoof. “Do not be alarmed by what I'm about to say, but the blanket over Twilight here will soon burst into flames.”
“What?!” Spike cried.
“Calm yourself young dragon. I will control or “bend” the fire so that your friend here will be unharmed. She will still feel the heat and is welcomed to ask me to stop anytime she wants.”
Upon hearing that, Twilight wanted to stop right then and there, but due to her skeptical nature she believed he is going to cast a spell that will protect her. So she said nothing. Soon Firebrand got some smoking straw and levitated a small pice of ash, but his horn wasn't glowing for some reason. He puts the piece of ash on the blanket and it quickly catches on fire. Everypony in the crowd gasp in shock as they see that the fire is spreading faster than they thought and soon the entire blanket was in flames. Firebrand said nothing as he concentrated on making sure the fire doesn't hurt Twilight.
“Twilight is going to be toast if we don’t do something.” Rainbow said as the fire began to glow brighter.
“Oh, I wonder what she'll task like?”
The others then yelled at her for being Pinkie again. “PINKIE PIE! ”
Inside the fire, Twilight is so scared that she can’t open her eyes at first. When she finally open them she saw that the fire wasn't touching her at all. In fact she used a spell to see if magic was involved, but found none. She couldn't understand what was going on. The fire soon begins to lessen and she realizes that it was dying. When the fire disappeared altogether she saw that the fire consumed the blanket but not her. "How did he do that?" She thought. She then hears the crowd cheering for him and he helps her up.
“How ... how did..?”
“A grate unicorn never reveals his secrets.” Twilight then heads back down to the crowd where her friends were waiting.
“What happen there Twilight?”
“Are you hurt?”
“Are you going again?”
“I don’t know Rainbow. I’m not hurt AJ. And I'm not going again PINKIE!”
Scootaloo then reminds them about the show. A few hours later after dusk, Firebrand finishes his performance with taking some fire and shooting them up at the sky making fireworks. “And thats all folks.”
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Later at Sugarcube Corner, the main 6 and the CMC are having dinner (on Pinkie’s treat while she's working) when Firebrand comes in. “Hot chocolate please.”
“Coming right up.” Two-seconds later, Pinkie has a cup of steaming hot chocolate in her hoof and places it on the counter. “3 bits please” He pays and heads outside.
Twilight then gets up. “I’m gonna go ask him a few questions.”
“Yeah,” Rainbow replied “like what, 'do you want to be my boyfriend?'”
“Rainbow! I do not, repeat, do not like him what so ever. I just want to know how he did that is all.” Twilight then walks away to follow him.
When Twilight is outside, Rainbow says “She likes him.” The others soon laugh about the thought. Outside near the stage, Twilight sees Firebrand drinking his cup of hot chocolate.
Suddenly Snips calls out “Oh oh, mister Brand.” This startles Firebrand into dropping his hot cocoa on himself.
“Can you teach us about that fire bending?” Snails asked.
When Firebrand turns around and they see that not only is he angry but also they made him spill is coco on him. “Uh, never mind. Lets go Snails.” The two soon run.
“Uh, great, now that was a wast of time.”
Twilight then walks up. “Are you alright?”
“Yeah, I’m fine.” Firebrand answered.
“But you got hot chocolate all over you. You need to see a doctor.”
“Calm down, I've been in a volcano before and I didn't get burned.”
“OK, anyway, can you tell me about your firebending? Is that how you put it?”
He then sighs. “You're not gonna leave me alone or let me leave Ponyville until you get an answer, huh?”
“Yep.”
“All right. Is there someplace we can talk in private?” Firebrand asked, getting a nod from Twilight.
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Later at the library, Twilight is getting some water for herself and Firebrand. She heads toward the living room and sits down on a pillow next to him. Some candles are lit, making the scene kinda romantic. “So, mister Brand”
“Please, call me Fire.'”
“OK, Fire,’ tell me about yourself.
“Isn’t much to tell really.” He goes to a flashback.
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“You see when I was only a baby, my mom died a couple of days after I was born. My family lived in a small town in Abysus called Bellwood. My parents were both blacksmiths who lived in the forged. When I was born, my parents intended to name me after my father, but something came over them and they decided to call me Firebrand. When I was only 3, I fell into a small fire, but instead of being heavily burned, I came out without a single burn. When I was 6, I became fascinated with fire. I wanted to know everything I could about it. Eventually, I discovered that I can actually control fire just by concentrating and moving my limbs. Then my cutie mark showed up the next day. Eventually the village elders discovered what I can do and called my father to a meeting. I wanted to know what they were talking about, so I went to a window and listened to what they were saying."
"Firebrand needs to have freedom and fun. He needs to grow up as a normal colt." Firebrands father augured.
"He needs to be taken to the capital so we can know if he's a danger or not." Another, older Unicorn said.
"Calm, Phoenix, you to Garth." The village elder said. "I agree with both of you. But Phoenix, I know you mean well, but you are letting your affection for the colt cloud your judgment."
"All I want is what is best for him. He's my only son, and all the family I had left." Phoenix said, nearly on the verge of tears.
"I’m sorry, but you and Firebrand must be separated! The colt will be sent away to the capital to see if he's a threat." The elder firmly said. Firebrand, who was watching and hearing the whole thing, is shocked at the news that he just heard.
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“That's awful, Fire.' I don't know what to say.” Twilight replied.
“I couldn't believe it either.” He then stands up and turns around. “How could they do that to me?! They wanted to take away everything I knew and everypony I loved!” The candles then become extremely intense and Twilight nearly catches on fire.
“Whoa! Hot cinders!” Twilight said as some cinders nearly hit her.
“I'm sorry I got so mad.” Fire' said.
“You have the right to be angry after the elders sent you away like that.” Twilight said, trying to comfort him.
“Well, that's not exactly what happened.”
==================================================================
The flashback starts again, showing Firebrand looking out the window of his bedroom. “I was afraid, confused. I didn't know what to do.”
Later, Phoenix is walking to Firebrands bedroom and opens the door with his magic. “Fire,' I'm not going to let them take you away from me. Firebrand?” Phoenix opens the door more, then he spots a scroll. He opens it up.
The scroll says, “Father, I’m sick of being treated like a threat.” He then gasps, and sees a storm coming outside the window. In a nearby forest, Firebrand is running toward a train and gets on before it gets too fast while the rain pours.
“I never saw him alive again. After a whole year, I returned home out of guilt. But when I got there, everything was in ashes. I searched for somepony I knew, but I only found bones. I went back to the forged. It look like it was ransacked. When I went to my father's room, I found his body. I found his diary and went to the last entry. A month before I went back, everypony in town got a strange black letter. It said to turn over the firebender. Then a few days later a small army arrived and destroyed everything in its path. My father’s last entry was to me. It said that he was proud of what I am, and told me that with great power comes great responsibility.”
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“Eventually I became a sideshow going to different countries and kingdoms. I adopted the name Firebender because it seemed to fit. While I was in a country called Hoenn, I was informed that Abysus, my home, was destroyed by the Fire Nation. I realized that they must be looking for me.”
“Wait, does that mean you're the last of your kind?”
“In a sense, yes. I am the last pony from Abysus.”
“What about your firebending? Can you tell me how it works?”
“Sorry, but that's just as much of a mystery to me just as much as its to you.”
“You don’t know how it works, despite the fact you had it for your whole life.”
“I know its hard to explain, but I just know when I'm using it and when I'm not.” He then begins to cry.
“Are you alright?” Twilight asked.
“No. You don’t know what's it like for me. Can you even imagine what's it like to be a freak! To know that your whole family is dead! I don't even know who or what I am, Twilight! I never have.”
“I can help you figure that out.”
“You ... you can?”
“Yeah, I mean I do run the library around here. So, what do you say.”
“All right. Lets get started.”
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The next morning, neither Twilight nor Fire' have found any information on firebending. “200 book, 20 scrolls, 12 manuscripts and not a single one has anything about firebending.” He then sighs from both exhaustion and disappointment.
“Don’t worry, I have access to the royal archives in Canterlot.”
“Really?”
“Yes, In fact. I am Princess Celestia’s star pupil.”
“OK. But I’ve never been to a big city before.”
“Don’t worry your pretty little ... uh I mean don’t worry. I've used to live there so I know my way around. But if we're going we better tell my friends.”
“Why?”
“Because they're going to think your my boyfriend if we go alone.”
“I understand. Wait. Earlier you said I was pretty, did you-”
“My tongue got tied OK!”
“OK. But if you're gonna tell your friends, it might be best to tell them the story.”
“All right.”
“Good, but promise me that they won’t tell anyone else.”
“Why?”
“Because I think that the fewer that know, the better.”
“All right. I’ll Pinkie Promise them not to tell anyone else.”
“What's a Pinkie Promise?”
“Its a promise my friend Pinkie Pie has, and apparently when you break one you’ll have to deal with a very angry Pinkie.”
“OK, so Pinkie Promise me that you will tell only your friends and that they won't tell anyone else.”
“Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye,” Twilight rattled off.
A bit confused about what happened, it took Firebrand a second to process the random movements and words. “I have seen plenty of strange and messed up things during my travels.”
“How does that rank up?”
“Its up there.”
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An hour later at Sugarcube Corner, Twilight is telling her friends what Firebrand told her. “So let me get this straight. His family is dead, he doesn't use magic to firebend, he doesn't know who or what he is, and you're going to help him.” Rainbow said.
“Basically.”
“You must really like him if you're going to help him.” Applejack said in a mocking tone.
“AJ, I don’t like him, I mean he set a blanket on fire while I was under it.”
“Well, if you're going to Canterlot, were going with you.”
“All right Rarity, but you all have to Pinkie Promise me not to tell anyone else about his past until we know what he is. I mean, I actually Pinkie Promise him to tell only you gays and to make sure that you won’t tell anyone else.” Pinkie then stared mercilessly at the others.
“All right, if it make y’all feel better, then I cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye to keep this a secret.”
“We all do.” Pinkie’s intense stare dies down and she returns to her old bubble self.
“Okey-dokey-lokey.”
“Thanks girls, this means a lot to him and me.”
“Gee, Twilight, what did you mean ‘me’?” Twilight then blushes out of embarrassment, the others soon laugh. Unfortunately, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were listening to them.
“That is not good.” Scootaloo said. “If they find out we know they'll kill us.”
“I’m not sure about Fluttershy and Rarity, but yeah, I’ll have to agree with you on that.”
“Y’all both have a point. I say we go with them at the last-minute and tell them that we heard them talking.”
“I hope your right Apple Bloom.” All three then have one of their moments, “Cutie Mark Crusaders Mystery Solvers, YAY! ”
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At the train station, Fire, Pinkie, Spike, Twilight, and Fluttershy are waiting for the others. “Where are they?” Spike asked.
Firebrand is the only one who answered. “There probably taking their time. I’m sure there be here soon.” Sure enough Rainbow, Rarity and Applejack arrived accompanied by Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo.
“Why are they here?” Twilight asked with annoyance in her voice.
“They kind of heard us at Sugarcube Corner earlier and they wanted to come along.” Rainbow replied.
“They want to come. I think they might be a big help.”
“All right, but make sure they don’t wander off somewhere.”
Rainbow, Rarity, AJ, ant the CMC all said the same thing. “Gotcha.”
There train soon arrives and they bored. The train soon departs and they begin to head to Canterlot. “Finally, ” Firebrand thought to himself. “I’m getting some answers. ”
The Elements of Nature, Book 1: 火 & 水 (Fire & Water)
The Elements of Nature
In the Fire Nation, a solider is walking across a filed to the Fire Lord, who is reading a book, and bows. “Our forces at Pegasus City have failed. Commander Zhao was killed." The solider said as he gives his report.The news makes the Fire Lord extremely furies. "There is good news. Your son was seen alive with General Iroh. No one knows where they went. It is said that General Iroh displayed the ability to self-manifest fire during battle, almost like he was a bender.”
After a few tension filled moments, which ended with Ozia standing up, he continued, “And the Avatars, they said the Avatar of Water, a Pegasus with an aqua blue coat with an ice white mane and tail, can bend three fields of water. They say she can bend the ocean. They say it was incredible to see.” Ozia then grabs a small smoking stick from a pot and places it on some dry grass. It caches fire right away.
“When this fire reaches three fields in length, I want you to try to stop it.” He said out of pure anger. He then leaves as the fire spreads quickly, overwhelming the solider.
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Later, in his thrown room, Ozia is talking to a light red-coated mare with a black mane, tail, and eyes. She has a dagger for a cutie mark. “Our forces in Pegasus City at the North Pole have failed to take the city. Commander Zhao was killed in battle and my brother has become a traitor by showing himself a bender.
My son’s proven himself a failure. Now, Sozin’s Comet is returning in three years. It’s magical energy will give all earth ponies abilities that Alicorns can only dream about, including the ability to use their own Chi to create Fire, which gave the Fire Nation its name. That is the day we will win this war and prove the Fire Nation’s dominance. Now you must stop the two Avatars of Fire and Water from finding the remaining three, as well as finding the Elements of Nature. You must give us the time to reach that day. Do you accept this unspeakably important task I’m putting in your shoulders?”
“I do, Father.” She said with a twisted smile on her face.
TO BE CONTINUED
