Things have changed a lot since the Five Elements were on the Asian island. For starters, the island now had an official name of Heiya Island. For another thing, it was far more developed, with more buildings constructed. There was a distinction between the Chinese and Japanese buildings, for those familiar enough with Far Eastern designs. Still, the two sides didn't clash that much. The Five Elements got to see all of this as they were given a tour around the place.
"You know, there's a small part of me that's a little worried this island is within North Korea's firing range," said Jinxing.
"You know that North Korea is more bark than bite, right?" asked Huoxing, "All they do is rattle sabres. I don't think they'll actually attack us. That'll start a war with China, Japan, and the US at the same time."
"I still worry," said Jinxing.
Jinxing's worries were forgotten after a rather amusing incident. While walking at the visitor's center, the Five Elements happened to cross paths with a family from India who were here for the Martial Arts Showcase and Tournament. They took one look at the Elements, particularly Tuxing, Liao, and Shuixing, and immediately bowed their heads and started muttering prayers.
"Er, what are they doing?" asked Shuixing.
"I think they're showing us reverence," said Liao, "Tigers and cows are sacred in Hinduism."
"But I'm a water buffalo," said Shuixing.
The father of the family turned to Shuixing and said, "Though it is not as sacred as the cow, the water buffalo is still a beast worthy of respect."
"Particularly when she is accompanied by a nagini such as her," said the mother of the family, bowing to Muxing.
Muxing smiled and said, "Well, this is something I can learn to like."
Tuxing cleared her throat and said, "You realize we are not actually gods or avatars, right?"
"That is a matter of perspective to some," said the Indian father, "But what you do for your community and the world is worthy of respect."
Huoxing noticed that the Indian family weren't paying as much attention to her or Jinxing. "I'm getting the feeling we're being snubbed," muttered Huoxing to Jinxing.
"Well, where would you see the red panda being revered?" asked Jinxing with amusement.
Huoxing gave Jinxing an annoyed look. "Don't push it," she said, "Fire melts metal, remember?"
==========
The Five Elements' home here had a very unique design. It was a large, circular building, each Element getting one fifth of the house. The second floor was made up suites for the different girls, each done in the color and style of their respective elements, not unlike their home in Lyre. But the first floor below their suites held rooms that reflected the elements and personalities of each member.
Huoxing had the kitchen as not only did she keep the others' spirits up with liveliness and dancing, she also prepared meals for them and her cooking has gotten better over the last year.
Tuxing had the indoor gym and training room, considering she dedicated a large amount of her time to her martial arts training. She and the other five were going to be part of the Martial Arts Showcase and Tournament. Liao was going to be focusing on showcasing her skill with the urumi.
Jinxing had the entertainment room and media center of the house. While the house was mostly in an ancient Chinese aesthetic, the entertainment room had the cutting edge look of Japan. This suited the snow leopardess just fine as she wanted to keep up with the modern world.
Shuixing had the indoor pool, which came a large Jacuzzi. While Shuixing was a little embarrassed by having a hot tub so close to her bedroom, she did like to be able to take a soak as often as she liked. She couldn't wait to show her part of the house to Nate, who would be coming over soon for the Showcase and Tournament.
Muxing had an indoor garden in her part of the house. Though there was a garden on the exterior of the house from where her part was, Heiya Island was more temperate than Mieni Atoll. The winters here may not be so severe, but the plants in her indoor garden wouldn't likely survive the whole year in the changing climate outside. It did give her more time to work on her gardening and expand her knowledge of botany.
It was a bit hard to say whether the Five Elements would permanently move into their new home yet. They had gotten attached to their home in Lyre. While they could certainly commute between the two, it was a little hard to pack up and leave. At least they had the summer to get adjusted and decide which would be their more permanent home.