The Second Avatar

CHAPTER 8: BANDIT ATTACK (II)

The air was still, too still for the high mountains that usually carried brisk, constant winds through the temple grounds. Yogan stood in the center of the training courtyard, his chest rising and falling in deep breaths, eyes closed as he attuned himself to the barely perceptible currents of air around him. The events of the previous day still churned in his mind. The bandits had attacked the temple in what Kuno called a "test"—a probe to gauge their defenses.

He could hear the shouts and grunts of the other novices training nearby, their movements sharp and precise as they practiced the bending techniques Monk Nara had drilled into them. But for Yogan, every breath felt heavier than usual, like the air itself was weighing him down. It wasn't just the looming threat of another attack that unnerved him. It was the thought of what lay behind the bandits, the unknown force that Kuno had hinted at—the real enemy that had yet to reveal itself.

"Lost in thought again, Yogan?" Yoan's voice cut through the stillness, jolting Yogan back to the present.

Yogan opened his eyes and turned to see Yoan approaching, his usual smirk plastered across his face. Despite the grim circumstances, Yoan seemed unfazed, as if he thrived on the uncertainty of what was to come. But Yogan knew his friend better than that. Yoan was always the first to crack a joke or brush off danger with a cocky grin, but deep down, he was just as worried as the rest of them.

"You're the one who told me to practice mindfulness," Yogan replied with a small smile. "I'm just trying to focus."

"Focusing won't help much when the next wave comes crashing down," Yoan said, stretching his arms above his head. "You need to be ready to act, not just think."

Yogan sighed, rolling his shoulders. "I know. But something about this whole situation feels… wrong. Those bandits yesterday—they were weak, almost too weak. If Kuno's right, then the real fight is still coming, and we're not ready."

"We'll never be fully ready," Yoan said, his tone light but with an undercurrent of seriousness. "But that's the point of training, isn't it? To be as close to ready as we can be?"

Before Yogan could respond, the sound of footsteps approaching made them both turn. Kezin strode into the courtyard, his presence commanding but relaxed, a strange mix of authority and ease that set him apart from the other novices. Despite his casual demeanor, there was something undeniably different about him, something that made even Yogan—who prided himself on his airbending prowess—feel like he was a few steps behind.

Kezin's movements had a fluidity to them that was unmistakable. His mastery of waterbending was clear, even when he wasn't actively bending. There was a smoothness in the way he carried himself, as if every step and gesture was part of a carefully orchestrated current. His very presence felt like a calm river—still on the surface, but hiding depths of power beneath.

"Mind if I join in?" Kezin asked, his voice smooth and confident.

Yoan grinned and gave a mock bow. "The mighty Kezin, gracing us with his presence. Of course, you can join in. But try not to show us up too badly, alright?"

Kezin chuckled, shaking his head. "I'll do my best to keep it humble."

Though Kezin's words were modest, Yogan knew better. Kezin's bending was on another level—fluid, precise, and with a raw power that felt almost effortless. He moved like a master, though he carried none of the usual arrogance that came with such skill. In many ways, he reminded Yogan of Yoan—quick to joke and easygoing—but there was an undeniable sharpness in his eyes, a hint of something deeper that Yogan couldn't quite place.

The three of them stood in the courtyard, the morning light casting long shadows across the stone ground as they prepared to train. Yogan could sense the tension in the air, not just from the threat of another attack but from the weight of what was at stake. This temple, their home, was more than just a place to practice bending—it was a sanctuary, a symbol of peace and tradition. And now, it was under threat from forces they didn't fully understand.

Kezin was the first to move, his hands lifting in a graceful arc as he called forth water from the air. The droplets coalesced into a stream, swirling around his arms before forming into thin, whipping tendrils. He moved with practiced ease, bending the water with a precision that left no room for error. Each motion was deliberate, like a well-timed strike from a master swordsman.

"Don't get too comfortable," Kezin said with a grin, his eyes locked on Yogan and Yoan. "You'll need to push yourselves harder if you want to hold the line when the real fight comes."

Yogan exchanged a glance with Yoan, and without a word, they fell into step with Kezin, practicing their airbending techniques in tandem with his waterbending. The three of them moved as one, their bending flowing together in a seamless dance of wind and water. But even as they trained, Yogan couldn't shake the sense of foreboding that clung to the air.

After a while, they paused, each of them breathing heavily but with a sense of satisfaction. Yogan wiped the sweat from his brow and looked at Kezin, who stood as calm and collected as ever, barely winded by the exertion.

"You're holding back," Yogan said, narrowing his eyes at Kezin. "Why?"

Kezin's smile faded slightly, and for a moment, his gaze grew distant. "Because it's not time to show everything yet," he replied quietly. "We're still being watched."

Yogan's heart skipped a beat. "What do you mean?"

Kezin glanced around the courtyard, his eyes scanning the shadows as if expecting someone to appear. "The bandits didn't just attack yesterday for no reason. They were testing us, seeing how we fight, what our weaknesses are. And they're still watching."

Yoan crossed his arms, his expression darkening. "You think they've got spies in the area?"

"Not just spies," Kezin said, his voice low. "They've got eyes everywhere. Whoever's leading them isn't just after the temple—they're after something much bigger. And they're gathering information before they make their move."

Yogan's stomach churned at the thought. "So what do we do? We can't just sit around and wait for them to strike."

"We don't," Kezin said, his voice firm. "We prepare. We strengthen the temple's defenses, train harder, and make sure that when the real attack comes, we're ready for it."

The weight of Kezin's words settled over the three of them like a heavy cloak. Yogan knew he was right. They couldn't afford to be complacent, not when the enemy was lurking just beyond the horizon.

---

The temple grounds buzzed with activity for the rest of the day. Novices and monks alike moved with purpose, their usual calm replaced by a quiet urgency. The elders had called for immediate action after Renji had relayed Kuno's warnings, and now the entire temple was mobilizing.

Yogan, Yoan, and Kezin found themselves assigned to oversee the fortification of the outer walls. The walls were already designed with airbenders in mind, with high vantage points and plenty of open space to manipulate the wind. But now, they were adding additional layers of defense—sharpened wooden stakes along the perimeter, reinforced gates, and even traps set at strategic points along the paths leading up to the temple.

As they worked, Yogan couldn't help but notice how naturally Kezin fit in. Despite being a relative outsider, Kezin moved through the temple as if he had always been a part of it, offering suggestions and lending his strength wherever it was needed. The other novices respected him, even admired him, and Yogan could see why. Kezin had a quiet confidence that put others at ease, even in the face of the growing threat.

"You're pretty handy with this kind of thing," Yoan remarked as they worked together to reinforce one of the gates.

Kezin shrugged, a small smile playing on his lips. "I've been in a few scrapes before. You pick up a thing or two when you travel as much as I have."

Yogan glanced at Kezin, curiosity bubbling up inside him. "You've mentioned that before—your travels. You've seen a lot of the world, haven't you?"

Kezin nodded, his gaze distant. "More than I ever expected to. My father was a chief, but he believed in learning through experience, not just from the safety of our village. He sent me out into the world to see things for myself, to understand how other people live and how they fight."

"Sounds like a lot of responsibility," Yogan said, impressed.

Kezin chuckled, shaking his head. "It was at first. But after a while, I learned to appreciate it. The world is a big place, and there's always something new to discover. But right now…" His expression darkened. "Right now, I think we're all about to discover just how dangerous it can really be."

---

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the temple grounds, Yogan found himself standing at the edge of the outer wall, looking out over the vast expanse of mountains and forests below. The village lay nestled in the valley, peaceful and undisturbed for now. But Yogan knew it wouldn't last.

Kezin joined him at the wall, his arms resting on the stone as he gazed out at the horizon. "It's beautiful, isn't it?" he said quietly.

Yogan nodded, but his thoughts were elsewhere. The looming threat of the bandits had cast a shadow over everything. His mind flicked to the temple and its inhabitants, to the novices who were barely more than children, and to Kaiya.

---

The sun had set by the time Yogan found Kaiya, and they made their way to their favorite secluded spot in the forest. It was a place they'd come to for peace, away from the pressures of the temple and the whispers of war. Kaiya had packed a simple dinner, the same as always: fruits, vegetables, and a glazed clay jug of hot tea.

They spread a blanket on the ground, just as the moonlight began to filter through the canopy, casting soft silver beams across the clearing. Yogan lay back on the blanket, letting the tension in his shoulders ease. For a moment, in this space, it was just him and Kaiya.

"Have you ever considered trying something more… adventurous with the food?" Yogan asked with a playful smirk, taking a bite of the fruit.

Kaiya raised an eyebrow. "Adventurous? What, are you saying my fruit and tea aren't enough for you?" Her voice was full of mock offense, though the grin tugging at her lips betrayed her.

"I mean, maybe we could have, I don't know, some roasted komodo chicken one of these nights. Or at least something with more of a kick," he said, eyes glinting mischievously.

Kaiya snorted, shaking her head. "You'd be asleep before you even finished roasting it. And anyway, isn't it your turn to make dinner?"

"Oh, no," Yogan replied, sitting up and pointing at her with mock seriousness. "Last time I cooked, you said it was the worst thing you'd ever eaten, and I quote, 'if I ever have to eat that again, I'll jump off the temple wall.'"

"That was weeks ago!" Kaiya giggled, poking his side. "It's been long enough for me to recover."

"Well, next time, I'll make something so good, you'll never want to leave."

Kaiya's laughter rang through the clearing, clear and bright, and for a moment, Yogan forgot about everything else—the bandits, the temple, the weight on his shoulders. Here, with her, it was easy to pretend that none of it existed. He reached out, gently brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear, his fingers lingering for a moment on her cheek.

Kaiya's smile softened, and she leaned closer, resting her head on his shoulder. "You know," she murmured, "I like this. Just us. No training, no responsibilities, just peace."

Yogan wrapped his arm around her, pulling her closer. "Me too," he said softly. "But I can't help thinking… how long is it going to last?"

Kaiya lifted her head, her expression growing more serious. "Not long enough, I'm afraid."

Before Yogan could respond, a flicker of movement in the corner of his eye caught his attention. He frowned, sitting up straighter. "Did you see that?"

Kaiya turned her head, following his gaze. "What?"

Yogan pointed toward the distant treeline, where the forest met the open ground near the village below. A faint, flickering light—no, several lights—danced in the darkness. Torches.

Kaiya's eyes widened, and she scrambled to her feet, her playful demeanor evaporating. "Torches," she whispered. "There shouldn't be anyone out there this late."

Yogan stood, his heart suddenly pounding in his chest. "Stay here," he said, though he knew Kaiya would do no such thing.

Without waiting for a response, Yogan crept toward the edge of the clearing, his eyes fixed on the lights. As he got closer, his breath caught in his throat. There, in the shadows of the trees, moving like dark wraiths through the night, were dozens of armed men and women. They were dressed in dark, travel-worn clothes, with weapons gleaming faintly in the moonlight. Thirty, maybe forty of them. Bandits.

"They're here," Yogan breathed, his mind racing. "This is it."

Kaiya came up beside him, her face pale. "We need to warn the temple. Now."

Yogan nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. They exchanged one last glance, then bolted back through the forest toward the temple, the sound of their hurried footsteps muffled by the thick undergrowth. The once peaceful forest now felt alive with danger, every shadow a potential threat, every rustle in the bushes a sign that the bandits were closing in.

They reached the temple gates breathless and wide-eyed. Yogan barely managed to shout a warning before the gates were thrown open and they stumbled inside, calling for Renji and Monk Nara.

---

The temple courtyard erupted into chaos as the novices scrambled to prepare. Renji appeared, flanked by two elders, his expression grim but determined. The elders had appointed him to lead the defense of the temple—a decision that both Yogan and Yoan found themselves silently grateful for. Renji had always been a strong leader, calm under pressure and quick to make decisions.

"How many?" Renji asked, his voice sharp as he approached Yogan and Kaiya.

"At least three dozen," Yogan panted, still catching his breath. "Armed. They're just outside the village, heading this way."

Renji's eyes narrowed, and he turned to one of the elders. "We need to move fast. Evacuate the village and bring the villagers up here. We can't defend both the temple and the village at the same time."

The elder nodded, already barking orders to the novices. Within moments, the air was filled with the sound of footsteps, the rustle of robes, and the soft whoosh of bending as the monks and novices prepared for the worst. The novices gathered their weapons, while the more experienced monks readied themselves at the temple gates.

Yogan, still breathless but filled with a renewed sense of purpose, moved to Renji's side. "What's the plan?"

"We make a stand here," Renji said firmly. "The temple is fortified. We have the high ground. We'll hold them off as long as we can, but if they get past the outer walls…" He trailed off, his gaze distant for a moment before snapping back to Yogan. "The village comes first. Get the people out. We'll send a group down to evacuate them."

Yogan nodded, turning to Yoan, who had joined them in the chaos. "You ready for this?"

Yoan grinned, though there was a nervous edge to his smile. "I was born ready."

---

The descent to the village was quick and tense. Yogan led a small group of novices and monks down the steep path, their eyes scanning the forest for any sign of the bandits. The village was quiet, save for the soft crackle of the torches still burning in the streets. The villagers were already on edge after the recent attacks, and it didn't take long for the news to spread.

"Everyone, up to the temple!" Yogan called out, his voice carrying through the village square. "The bandits are coming!"

Panic rippled through the crowd, but the villagers, many of whom had lived in these mountains their entire lives, moved with practiced efficiency. Families grabbed what little they could carry, children were hurried along by their parents, and within minutes, the evacuation was underway.

As the last of the villagers began to ascend the path back toward the temple, Yogan turned to Yoan, who was standing guard at the edge of the village, his eyes scanning the darkness.

"Do you see them?" Yogan asked, his voice low.

Yoan shook his head, but his expression was tense. "Not yet. But they're out there. I can feel it."

Yogan's gut twisted with the weight of what was coming. The bandits would strike soon, and when they did, it wouldn't be a simple raid. They'd come in force, and this time, they weren't just testing the temple's defenses. This was a full-scale assault.

Renji, standing tall at the front of the temple gates, gave the signal. The novices took their positions, the air alive with the tension of an impending battle. The temple walls, fortified as they were, now felt smaller, more vulnerable. And as Yogan and Kaiya made their way back up to the temple, their hearts pounded in unison, knowing that the fight of their lives was about to begin.

In the distance, the torches flickered like fireflies in the night, growing ever closer.

The storm had arrived.

[A/N: Read five chapters ahead for this novel, available on my patreon right now at patreon.com/saiyanprincenovels]