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By The Bos | Part of the Mysteries of My Past continuity. |
Mysteries of My Past
Mysteries of My Past is a fanon series under progress. This page is to provide the Fanon community with updates on my progress with the series. Without further ado, I'll get to the updates.
Chapter 1[]
Distant Memories
Name: Distant Memories
The first chapter... always difficult. After trying my hand at this series during 2009, I have scrapped the original writing and have re-written it. I've actually finished this chapter, but I encountered my mortal enemy: naming. I've already changed one character's name three times, and another's twice. I'll post the chapter when I have finally figured out which names will make it to the wiki as a whole. Until then, check out the main page to see if you're interested.
Amount Complete: 100% (Published)
Release date: April 18, 2011
Preview[]
As they make their way towards the base, Shenji lets out a yawn. "Rough night?" Kuro asks.
"The usual."
"Any new revelations?"
"Just the usual: opposing Firebenders attacking me. It's getting to be pretty boring, actually."
"You should be paid overtime. We have to fight the Fire Nation all day, and you still fight at night!" As the pair laughs, Shenji realizes his lack of memory. The War had been raging for nearly a century, and had decimated the Air Nomads, as well as the Southern Water Tribe. Even the Earth Kingdom was feeling the damages of the conflict; the entire land was being forced on the defensive.
"Anything about your family?"
"Nothing. Odds are, since no one recognized me, my family was killed by the Fire Nation."
"That's why we're fighting - To make sure no one else looses their family." Shenji only nods as Kuro motions for him to move on. "Come on, we've got some training to do."
Chapter Two[]
Name: Retribution
Amount Complete: 100% (Published)
Release Date: May 13, 2011
Retribution.
Ready for seconds? I'm working out some final kinks with chapter two, of which I've shared with Vulmen on IRC. It's a rewrite of my original chapter two, which was about a page and a half long. I've since revamped it to be much longer, around five. Don't worry, I promise that subsequent chapters will be longer, and that more will be on their way soon. A major factor slowing down my writing is the fact that I'm writing two one shots alongside Mysteries, as well as my upcoming AP test schedule. So, basically, I'm screwed for a while. But, the publication shall continue... Retribution, coming soon to a wiki near you.
Preview[]
Shenji's unit fell into its formation soon after the Captain's speech. It would be a long march, and the group knew that nighttime was the best opportunity they had to damage the Firebenders. It was common knowledge that Firebenders were weaker under the moon, but their camp was still a distance away. The group would have to make good time to catch their foes at their weakest.
The soldiers trudged on, each semi-conscious while others were starting to fall asleep walking. Kuro was wide awake, using his alert demeanor to keep those around him from drifting back to sleep. He was waking up someone to his left and didn't see Shenji's head bobbing up and down. Ready! Aim! Fire! the voice in his head called. Shenji jerked awake, unsure as to what the dream was about.
"Winning the battle?" Kuro's voice called from beside him. Shenji knew Kuro's positive attitude wouldn't last long, so he decided to play along.
"If that was any indication of how this ambush is going to go, we've got it rough already."
"Then wake up, you'll need to be alert." Kuro had already reverted to his silent stoicism. The rest of the journey was made in silence, with Shenji managing to remain awake until they reached their destination. The scout at the head of the line returned, having located the campsite.
The Captain ordered a halt, and the soldiers quickly responded. "Men, this is what we're here for. Earthbenders, spread out and raise the protective wall! Warriors, gather within the perimeter! We attack on my signal!" The pair split up, preparing to meet each other on the battlefield, like they always managed to.
Chapter Three[]
Name: The Question
Amount Complete: 100% (Published)
Release Date: June 10, 2011
This one was another problem. I initially had our duo question something fairly stupid. Basically, I had them thinking that the soldiers from the previous day were becoming 'super-soldiers' and that they needed to tell their officers so that they could get the upper hand. I know, stupid, right? But anyway, I did such a reconstruction of the chapter that there's barely anything left. Sorry for being fairly inactive, I've just been working on finishing school work, as well as writing chapters for this series, a possible one-shot, as well as another massive chapter that will likely be broken up as to make it easier to read. --I'm The Bos - Talk - Guardian
Preview[]
Shenji paces behind Kuro, walking towards the outside of the camp. As they leave, they wave to one of the guards, who was in their unit before being wounded. They continue towards their battlefield, though Kuro eventually stops. "What's the hold up, Kuro?" Shenji asks.
"We don't need to go any further."
"Why not? You said you forgot something, so let's go."
"I didn't forget anything, Shenji. We need to go somewhere."
"We're on our way to the battlefield now. Where else do you need to go?"
"I want to know what was on that scroll. If we had to wipe out an entire Fire Nation unit just to get that, then it has to be important."
"It was important, Kuro. That's why we had to get it. But Captain had his orders. We weren't allowed to know, so he didn't tell us."
"If it was so important, the people who risked their lives to find it deserve to be let in on it! Why don't you want to know?"
"It's not that I'm not curious, I just don't think it's my place!"
"Well, whether you're coming or not, I'm going to go find out. See you back at camp."
As Kuro walks away, Shenji makes up his mind. "Where are you going?"
"The General's building. That's where they have their meetings. I'll find out what they're hiding," he says slyly.
In a second, Shenji's choice was clear. "I'm coming."
Chapter Four[]
Name: The Deserters
Amount Complete: 100% (Released)
Release Date: July 4, 2011
This chapter really ended up blowing my mind. I began writing a scene to be slight filler; make a cool dream sequence before getting back to the main plot action. But this ended up growing out of my control. By no means has the series dropped off, just put on hold due to the other stuff I've had to do.
Anyway, expect this one soon. The next one's a two-parter! --I'm The Bos - Talk - Guardian 13:26, June 27, 2011 (UTC)
- In hindsight, I realize that I cannot release such a patriotic chapter like "The Deserters" on a less patriotic day, so I decided to put this one up on Independence Day. --I'm The Bos - Talk - Guardian 13:31, June 29, 2011 (UTC)
Preview[]
The preview will be released tomorrow. I hope you all can't wait! --I'm The Bos - Talk - Guardian 02:31, July 2, 2011 (UTC)
Shenji walks through the clearing.
Shenji is lying on his bed, staring at the ceiling. Despite his exhaustion, he remained unable to fall asleep. He wondered what had caused the dream to take such a violent turn for the worst, but eventually concluded that it was the bloodthirsty nature of the Fire Nation to kill anyone who dared disagree with their motives. He lets out a small yawn, waiting for a moment as his mind slowly goes blank. Closing his eyes, the soldier finally drifts off to sleep.
Shenji finds himself standing in a forest, isolated within the towering rows of trees. He frantically looks around, but can't see anything through the black void around him. When he looks at his own body, he sees he's wearing a black cloak, covering most of his body. A chilling breeze blew through the woods, prompting him to pull up the cloak's hood. The wind continues blowing in the same direction as the soldier sets off through the chaotic scenery, hoping to find someone who can tell him where he is.
Eventually, he comes across a field filled with rolling hills. The trees seem to stop in a line, and the grass flows according to the gusts behind him. "Weird," he mutters as he sets off into the plain. As he approaches a hill, he decides to sit and rest. While most of the area is obscured by the darkness, he can at least see that the hills continue for miles on either side of him. He turns and sits in the grass, with the tall blades tickling his face as it flutters back and forth. He lies back on the ground, relaxing and finally feeling at peace. His lack of identity meant nothing to him since no one was around to ask. He had a relaxed feeling for the first time in a while, not training, not having nightmares; somehow his peaceful situation calmed his inner turmoil as well. He watched the trees wave with the wind, losing track of time as he watched.
Chapter 5[]
Name: Fugitive Part 1
Amount Complete: 100% (Released)
Release Date: Before August 13
This one took me a while... It introduces 5 new characters to the series, kind of. 3 that will be featured throughout the series. In my original write-up, circa 2009, I had a crappy idea of how they would find the character that will become Kuan. So, I came up with a more realistic way for them to meet, but unfortunately for my time-management, it took forever and a half to write. It also allowed me to work in some new antagonists, so that's also a plus. But, considering I have yet to conclude the second part, I can't put up any more info at the moment. Anyway, I hope you will all stay tuned... many new characters, new conflicts... drama. --I'm The Bos - Talk - Guardian 17:20, August 9, 2011 (UTC)
Preview[]
Shenji and Kuro run through the forest beyond the outer walls of their base. Though the sounds of nature and heavy breathing were bothersome, Shenji seemed to be revitalized by the rising sun. At least two hours away from their camp, the duo had not once stopped on their journey. "That should be enough," Kuro's voice calls from slightly ahead of Shenji. The pair stops, both doubling over from the sudden sensation of fatigue. "If not, I'll go back..." he adds with sarcasm.
"After what we did, do you think they'll let us back?" Shenji asks.
"Good point," Kuro says, leaning backwards and sitting on the ground. "After this, what are we going to do?"
"Another good point," Shenji replies while sitting down opposite his friend. "Well, if we go back, I'm sure the Captain would stick up for us."
"Yeah, but how much do you think he can do? He's a Captain, and there are Generals who are opposing him."
"So, basically what you're saying is that if we go back, we're dead?" Shenji says, surprised by the severity of their patriotic decision.
"Well, if they try to kill us, we can always leave again. They couldn't stop us the first time," Kuro says jokingly.
"I only wish we had brought food," Shenji replies, clutching his stomach in hunger.
"We probably should go looking for something to eat. Split up?" Kuro suggests, waving his hand in the air to symbolize the tentatively of the idea.
"No, let's just go together." Shenji slowly rises from his seat and glances around, confused. "Where do we go?"
Kuro straightens his back out, moving his arms in an arc while he stretched his shoulders. Eventually his index finger pointed into the sky, and his arm fell until it was parallel with the ground. "Let's go that way," he nonchalantly says, taking a few steps in the random direction. Seeing no alternative, Shenji follows him. The pair walks aimlessly through the woods, with Shenji drifting into deep thoughts.
Chapter 6[]
Name: Fugitive Part 2
Amount Complete: 100% (Released)
Release Date: September 22, 2011
Wow... this one was a doosey! Not only did it take me forever to write, it contains a pretty graphic, literally icepick killer moment. When I sent it to my editor, it ended up being about 19 pages... The last one was like 12. It's got a few new characters, and a few who won't be appearing much more. I've got so much packed into this chapter... I would ask you all to read it, but considering I doubt many check this page, I'll just hope for it. --I'm The Bos - Talk - Guardian 02:30, September 3, 2011 (UTC)
Preview[]
"What do you mean 'No one has ever escaped'?" Shenji asks, shocked.
"As in, no one has ever escaped," Kuan reiterates, putting emphasis on the statement. "Everyone who has tried has been discovered and killed before their attempt. They say that death is the only way out," he says, his voice fading.
"My friend used to always tell me that if you are closed in on all sides, go up."
Shenji looks at Gahn with a clearly bamboozled expression. Sensing Shenji's confusion, Kuan offers a way out. "Yeah, I don't understand half the stuff he says either. What is it supposed to mean?"
"It means that we need to keep trying. I am sad to say I never thought of that in my years in here. While no one has made it out of here before it can't be impossible."
"But how exactly are we going to get out?"
"The Fire Nation is always a step ahead. They knew I was an Earthbender, so they put me in a metal prison. They knew that Kuan was a Waterbender, so they bound his limbs so he couldn't pull the water from the air to use. There's got to be something they haven't thought of."
"I can say I don't know much about who I am; I can't tell you where I grew up, who my parents were, or why I joined the fight against the savages, but I can tell you that I know I'm not a person who gives up. If death is the only way out, then we'll take some soldiers with us too. We have to keep trying."
Chapter 7[]
Name: The Yu River
Amount Complete: 100% (Released)
Release Date: February 12, 2012
Well, I'm there again. This is the place where I got stuck the last time I started on Mysteries. Right after Shenji and Kuro met Kuan, I got some writer's block and a massive conundrum. By viewing the Map of the World of Avatar, you can find that Pohuai Stronghold is located near the banks of a river. I've also got Shenji and Kuro situated in the North-Western Earth Kingdom, beyond the banks of another river. This situation comes with the question of how I can make a group of people, with access to a Waterbender, not be able to cross rivers. After a crap ton of procrastination, distractions, and more writer's block, I had a discussion with a certain someone who gave a suggestion that evolved into a great idea/subplot. Coupled with some slight Promise spoilers, I've finally got a solid idea once again. More work to follow. --I'm The Bos Wall 20:48, January 11, 2012 (UTC)
Preview[]
"So you have no real plans?" Kuan asks as the three walk along a river shore. The current is powerful; each man must nearly yell to be heard over the crashing waves.
"Honestly, we've found so many distractions I'm surprised we've got this far," Kuro replies. Kuro reaches into his bag and pulls out the map he fought for a few days prior. Motioning for the others to stop walking, Kuro unravels the scroll and flattens it out on the ground. "We were stationed here," Kuro deduces, pointing to a specific area.
"We're right along the Yu River," Kuan announces. After Shenji gives him a questioning look, Kuan begins to explain. "I remember crossing it during the dry season, before I got captured. I'd rather not explain further. So that means we're about here," the Waterbender deduces, placing his finger on a point along the river bank.
With a sigh, Kuro announces his conclusion. "Then that means we've got a long march ahead of us guys..."
After looking over the map for a moment, Shenji thinks he has a plan. After ascertaining their group's current position, Shenji drags his finger towards the river, a relatively short distance away when viewed on the map. "Why don't we just cross the river? We'd get there much quicker that way."
"Kuan's a good Waterbender, he could just ferry us across. It'd be easy."
"As brilliant as that plan is, it can't work. It's the rainy season now. I can't get us all across the river during the rainy season. The current would wash us further away from the base. That would hardly be a good idea."
"We might as well get going as quickly as possible. There's no reason to give the Fire Nation more time than they need," Kuro decides. The Earthbender gives a nudge and the trio set off in a different direction. "We'll give the Fire Nation a reason to fear the Fugitives," he mutters.
"The what?" Shenji asks.
A grin flashing across his face for the first time in a while, the Earthbender begins explaining. "Well, we're all running away from something, for one reason or another. And when we finally take out this base, I want a name to go with the victory."
"Okay, but don't expect me to be calling out our name when we try and ambush people," Kuan quips.
"That would be highly counter-productive," Shenji adds.
"I know that," Kuro adds. "They'll know somehow. When the military finds out, they won't put us on trial when we get back! They'll know that we didn't just leave."
"The problem is that you did leave," Kuan says as they continue. "It's not going to be pretty if you get back."
"We will complete this mission and then we will go back. It's the right thing to do. We did disobey our orders, and we'll accept our consequences," Kuro bluntly states, his face reflecting his adamant desire to fulfill his self-imposed quest. "I knew this would happen, and I'm prepared to accept the results."
Chapter 8[]
Name: Crossroads
Amount Complete: 100% (Released)
Release Date: April 15, 2012
This chapter is where the main plot truly begins. The survivors of this chapter will be important for the rest of the series. The relationships formed will set the stage for struggles and conflicts down the line. The battles will leave several people anxious for further revenge. Want to find out what happens? Wait at the crossroads...
Well... I've been writing a lot and I have more to go. I have yet to decide what happens at the end of this plot line, but what I currently have is longer than the finale chapter of Avatar: Guardian. I think I'm going to split it, but until I finish the writing I can't publish anything. Considering that "The Yu River" was the first part of this plot line, you're in for a fun conclusion. I hope you won't be disappointed.
Okay... Now, I finished this half up. I decided to split it and have sent the first half off for editing. I've still got some way to go on ch 9, which is currently as long as the sliced ch 8. I doubt you'll be disappointed when it comes out; no filler, but I don't feel like it's rushed. I hope you'll enjoy it!
Chapter 9[]
Name: Collision Course
Amount Complete: 100% (Released)
Release Date: May 12, 2012
I may have just published a chapter, but I wasn't sure what should be in the chapter, so Crossroads got cut in half. And by half, I mean about 40/60. This one is really long and action packed. We get to see more of Inata, Tazo, Cren, and Luo, plus someone you may remember from a previous chapter.
It's coming soon and is written very well (I think) so I hope you'll enjoy it!
Preview[]
"I don't know what could be here. I'm not hurting anyone. Besides, what if something is here and no one is prepared?" Tazo asks his companion.
"No one would be here. I've only been here for a few moments and I can tell that this level is used for barracks. The supplies, what we came for, would certainly be on a lower level. If anyone was on this ship, they'd be waiting down there. Just follow me and loosen up," Inata bluntly orders.
Tazo nods and drops his arms. "Fine. But if we get killed down there because you weren't cautious, then I'll hold you accountable for eternity. I hope you can enjoy the Spirit World with me constantly breathing down your neck," he snidely replies.
"It's not that much different than now," the stern Firebender responds. Shaking his head, Inata leads his friend down the final flight of stairs, stopping when they notice a light source.
"Someone is here..." Tazo whispers.
"Not necessarily," Inata replies. "All it means is that someone was here. Don't get your hopes up."
The group approaches the source of the light and Tazo takes a swift peak inside. "I don't see anyone in there."
"I told you," Inata says as he walks into the lit chamber.
"Someone get me up," a voice says out of nowhere. Startled, Inata whips his arm swiftly across his torso sending an arc of fire that briefly brightens the room. "Don't step on me, I'm down here," the voice snaps.
Chapter 10[]
Name: Impasse
Amount Complete: 100% (Released)
Release Date: July 31, 2012
This chapter is going to be a long one for me to write. Filled with deep character interactions and a full dream sequence spurred upon by events in the last chapter, Impasse is one of my deeper works which should not be taken lightly. Impasse deals heavily with loss and death; in fact every character is dealing with some form of death in the chapter. It makes for good writing.
Plus you'll get a new supporting character. 'Nuff said. --I'm The Bos Wall 03:19, July 8, 2012 (UTC)
- Brief update guys - 1/2 the way done with editing! The chapter, when printed, came out to be 27 pages and half are currently done. I'll post the chapter as soon as I can make the corrections necessary, but be warned, the chapter will be a doosy! --I'm The Bos Wall 15:50, July 28, 2012 (UTC)
Preview[]
Shenji paces through a dark, metal hallway, uncertain of his location. As he walks forward, he reaches a fork in the path. One goes to the right and makes an immediate left while the other path, heading left, also turns left, making the paths head in opposite directions. Turning back around, Shenji sees that the hall he was just in was enveloped in darkness, leaving him unable to see where he just came from. "I've got to keep moving," Shenji mutters quietly to himself. Deciding on the right path, Shenji slowly moves forward, keeping watch for possible traps or ambushes. He also keeps watch for possible signs of people, remembering how his last dream of wandering through darkness turned out.
After making the left turn, Shenji continues moving forward, making a route down a corridor that was seemingly off the main pathway. The hall makes a right turn at its end, eventually forking at its end. Shenji follows until the fork, deciding that right was again the correct path. After making another turn, Shenji finds himself at a dead end. "Great. This place has dead ends," he exclaims in frustration. The soldier traces his path back to the fork and takes the left path, coming across another block. Angrily looking at the wall, he leans back against the other side of the wall, and quickly recoils, having felt something jab into his back. Dragging his hand across the wall, he locates the source of his pain, a handle attached to a door. Shenji pulls the door open and immediately stumbles back, reacting to the relatively bright light on the other side of the barrier.
Still squinting but able to see, Shenji walks into the room, lit by torches in the corners. On the walls, several weapons were attached to the wall in an ornate fashion. Shenji notices spears, knives, bows, arrows, and even a pike before turning his eyes upon two mismatched swords lying in the center of the wall to his left. While he is distracted, a man walks in through a door on the other side of the room. "Who are you?" Shenji asks quickly, moving towards the wall and picking up a knife.
"I mean you no harm, I am simply a messenger," the man calmly replies.
"What do I need to know?" the soldier replies, relaxing his stance and putting the blade back on the wall.
"There is a warrior on the other side of this wall. He has a very good combat record and is seeking a challenge. Since you have made it this far, you are clearly worthy." Before he can continue, Shenji asks a question.
"Worthy of what? Where am I?"
"He only wishes to enjoy a challenge."
"Are you sure there is no other choice?" the soldier asks.
"Of course not, sir. I appreciate your cooperation."
He sighs in acceptance, shaking his head while turning away from the messenger. "Fine," Shenji says while he scans the wall, looking for something to use in the inevitable battle. Finding no match for either sword, Shenji walks over the wall and picks up the single dao, locating the sheath directly below. After casing the blade, he swings it across his back while reaching for the katana. The soldier places the blade inside its case as well, securing the blade around his waist. "Now what?"
Chapter 11[]
Name: Detour
Amount Complete: 30%
Release Date: Unknown
After dealing with their various issues from the previous chapter, the story must go on. We'll get some emotional conflict, a few good battles. The story will progress and the Fugitive's plans are made a little more known in the future. In addition, we'll see a minor appearance from a character from Guardian who was alive at the time... Any ideas who? I think you'll all enjoy it... --I'm The Bos Wall 00:39, September 15, 2012 (UTC)
Subscriptions[]
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Miscellaneous Updates[]
Character pages[]
Okay... that was a ton of work... but I've finally gotten most of these pages done. Now, if anyone reads these updates, make sure to keep me accountable and keep reminding me to update the pages. I'll need the motivation.
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