As I look back I realize that I could have prevented this. I could have done something, anything to change what had happened.  I should have realized that it would be my father that I would have to fight with, not that war general.  But as I look into my fathers eyes, I see it’s far too late.

I can only try not to cry.  The sense of betrayal combined with the throbbing pain of the left side of my face made that nearly impossible, though.

“You are to finish what your ancestors had started; find the avatar and bring him to me, only then will you return home with your honor.” My father said to me, his tone expressionless, and his face blank.  There was nothing I could have said to make things right.  So I didn’t argue with him.

As I pack my stuff, I can’t help but let one single tear escape from my uninjured eye. I know what’s going to happen; I will spend my whole life at sea, searching aimlessly. I put on my favorite shirt, a farewell gesture, and head toward my ship: my new home.

The main street was more crowded usual, as I began what would be the longest walk of my life. The men stared at me from their shuttered windows; the women shielded their children’s eyes from the sight of me as they shopped. This was all to be expected; I was an honorless, scarred, banished prince of the firenation.

I decided right here and now that I will do whatever it takes to capture the avatar.

Whatever it takes.