Chapter 15. Home [FIXED]
After completing all my planned tasks, I decided to focus on returning to the North Pole. I was starting to miss my parents and little sister.
That night, I approached the spot where I had first appeared and began to enter the mysterious space between worlds. Once there, I tried to sense echoes of other places connected to the human realm. After some time, I found two such sources. One was almost identical to the energy of the South Pole, dominated by waterbending—likely the territory of my tribe. The other was much weaker, resembling something created by someone forcing their way through the barrier from both sides.
Clearly, this was the Valley of Forgetfulness, a place often visited by the Mother of Faces. She helps fulfill the requests of those who wander there, allowing them to change their faces. Sometimes, at their request, she even takes their memories. I think she created this breach in the protection; an ancient spirit like her is certainly capable of it. It's best not to go there unless absolutely necessary. Who knows how she differs from her portrayal in the series? There, she never harmed anyone, but here, I've already noticed differences from what was shown on screen.
I have an idea to reach my destination without effort, but there's no need to do it now. Tomorrow, after properly saying goodbye to the tribe, I'll try to make my way home.
The next day, every member of the tribe came to see me off. Many of the children had tears in their eyes, none of them wanting me to leave. As soon as I informed Kai's family of my departure, Katara clung to me from early morning. I had to carry her in my arms; otherwise, she threatened to latch onto my leg and walk that way. Over the next few hours, I heard Katara's tearful pleas for me to stay, her bargaining offers to be very obedient, and even threats of ignoring me. Honestly, while all this was happening, I often caught myself thinking, "Just stay a little longer," but I had to muster immense willpower to push those thoughts away. If I stayed a little longer now, it could drag on indefinitely. Each tantrum had to be soothed, and each time, I solemnly promised her I'd return soon.
Kai seemed even more beautiful and youthful during these days. When there's a man—well, a boy—who provides a sense of security, and when the children are fed, clothed, and happy, she feels content with life. During our time together, I was able to assess her character. She was a calm and wise young woman with a sense of tact. When I couldn't answer some of her questions truthfully, she gracefully dropped the uncomfortable topic. She was also very attentive, often sitting with the children for so long that we'd forget to eat. That's when she'd show her foresight, setting the table with ready-made food.
"Maybe you'll stay a few more days?" Kai asked after our morning tea, while the children were still asleep.
"I'd love to, but I can't. My family is waiting for me there," I said with a heavy sigh. "You know, there's a good chance I'll return soon. If I can figure out the mechanism of travel, I'll be able to come here whenever I want."
"Yes, but it's hard to believe you can travel from one point in the world to another," she said, her logic strange. "You live with bending, mysterious animals, and spirits, yet some things still seem impossible to people here. Katara will miss you terribly. I don't think she'll let you go today," she added with a smile. "Since you woke up, she's spent all her time with you, even forgetting about me," she said with a hint of jealousy.