A golden chain from the apex of the flames led down to matching shackles that held a beautiful, dark skinned girl, suspended by her wrists, trapped in the frame. Waves of long brown hair cascaded down her back and shoulders, save for the strands worked into two loops, one on either side of her face, framing her beautiful blue eyes. Her body was decorated in thin furs of pure white and trimmed in blue, the formal dress of the water tribes. Yet this outfit was much more enticingly cut. The fur covered her breasts, but left her arms and trim midriff bare. The skirt rode low on her hips, and while the delicate fur flowed down to her trim ankles, the sides were slit and open, placing her exquisitely formed legs on display. Gold manacles encircled her ankles above her bare feet, her toes dangling a foot above the floor, keeping them together and in place, a short chain running to the bottom of the frame. “This is Katara,” Ozai said as he looked down over the bound girl, reaching out to lift her chin with his fingers. Katara’s blue eyes glared fiercely up at him, a growl of defiance able to be heard despite the leather gag that filled her mouth. “master water-bender. In fact, the last water-bender of the Southern water tribe, and former companion of the Avatar. ...to be continued!
. He had summoned only his most trusted and ruthless leaders, twenty four all told, yet even they sat nervously if respectfully, unsure of why they were there . Of course he did have to admit that the saffron sash of the Last Avatar that hung behind him contributed to his intimidating air . “My loyal subjects .” The Fire Lord’s voice filled the room, demanding all attention and ending all whispers . “As you know, we have achieved a great victory . The Avatar is no more . The Ascension of the Fire Nation is now complete . Yet even now trouble brews in our conquered lands . Some of the invading forces escaped, and talk of rebellion spreads .” Thoughtful nods of agreement came from the gathered generals . Ozai stood, stepping forward regally, the flames before his throne parting for him . “We have allowed the colonies too much freedom . It is time they learned their place .” The Fire Lord brought his hands together in a clap, the flames behind him roaring . At the signal, the floor beside him opened and a golden frame began to rise . It was beautifully decorated, carved to look like two serpentine dragons, the breaths of fire from their open mouths meeting in the middle . ...to be continued!
