Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It had been two years since Katara returned to the Southern Water Tribe. Home was the same but she was so much different now. Sometimes she caught herself staring at the horizon waiting for something to appear over it. Was it fear? Or longing? Katara didn’t know. She didn’t know what to feel or where she belonged anymore. For so long, all Katara wanted to do was return home. Now that she was here, she felt directionless. Like she was meant to do more.

Katara focused her energy on her chores, waterbending, and practicing self-defense. She taught Sokka and his child soldiers the basics but never had time to move on to more advance moves because of all the chores that needed to be done.

She let her hand drag in the water searching for movement as the canoe drifted lazily through the sea. Katara finally felt a fish swimming beneath and used her waterbending to levitate it into the air.

“Sokka look, I’m doing it!” Katara exclaimed. Although she nearly perfected ice daggers, she still couldn’t quite crack levitating.

“Stop that!” Sokka popped the water bubble with the end of the spear freeing the fish. “What did I tell you about playing with magic water?!”

“Waterbending!” Katara yelled back. “Stop being so paranoid! There’s no one here for miles!”

Katara loved her brother but it hurt her whenever he freaked out over her bending. She knows it comes from a place of protection but it was still aggravating.

“Paranoid?! Me? I’m just looking out for you! Waterbending is what attracted the Fire Nation here in the first place!”

“So, it’s my fault then?!”

“No Katara. That’s not what I meant.”

“Really? Because it’s what you said.”

“I know it’s just… We have to be careful. They could be here at any moment.”

“You’ve been saying that for the past two years! And yet, nothing!” Katara turned away angrily. “You’ve also been leaving me to do all the chores for the past two years. You could at least let me bend in peace.”

“That’s because I’ve been preparing for the next attack! I have to protect you and the village! I’m the only man left. It’s my duty.”

“I can handle myself!”

“Just because a bunch of Earth Kingdom girls you had a sleepover with said you could doesn’t mean you can!”

Katara growled at him and balled her fists.

Sokka’s face soften realizing his mistake. “Katara wait- “

“I’LL SHOW YOU!!!”

Katara stood in the boat almost capsizing it. She used all her pint up fury to waterbend a nearby iceberg in half.

A bright light shot out from it.

~*~

Zuko slowly exhaled, watching his breath escape in white puffs. He continued to scan the horizon for any sign of the Avatar. There were none at the any of the Air Temples. But the mysterious blue light that shot into the sky a couple of hours ago confirmed that he was heading the right way. Zuko put off going to the South Pole as long as he could. It reminded him of Uki and how he failed her. Zuko knew he should had done more to help his childhood friend. Now it was too late.

He received very few news from the Fire Nation since his banishment. Despite his many progress report letters to his father during the first couple of months, he’d only received one in response. The names of the deceased recruits in the 41st division and notice stating Assimilation Experiment had been discontinued resulting in Uki’s execution.

Zuko stopped sending letters.

Iroh assured his nephew that Uki was a very bright and clever girl. She could had escaped beforehand. Zuko doubted it. He knew his uncle was trying to give him empty hope. Even if Uki did escape, what were the odds they would run into each other again?

It has been three long years.

Movement caught his attention. Through the scope, Zuko saw a figure dressed in yellow and orange robes carrying a blue clothed person. They leapt impossibly high and ran as fast of the wind. Zuko ordered the crew to steer southwest and prepare for battle.

There was only one person who move like that.

~*~

Katara watched the Airbender disappear into the tundra on his bison with angry tears forming at her eyes. Sokka and Gran-Gran insisted it was for the good of the village but she didn’t want to hear it.

“There goes my only chance of becoming a master waterbender.”

While spending the day with the carefree boy, he offered to take her to the North Pole when she mentioned she didn’t have a master. Katara finally realized what had been gnawing at her for a while. She wanted to leave the village. She wanted to travel the world and master her bending and do something with her life. She wanted purpose.

“Katara- “

She stormed off leaving her brother and grandmother alone.

Black snow began to drift from the sky. Katara’s heart sank. She ran through the village alerting people and getting young children into the safety of the huts. Katara then rushed to the meeting hut where Sokka was prepping for battle. She grabbed her bow, arrows, and knives while Sokka glared at her.

“Absolutely not.”

“Try and stop me.”

Sokka groaned and massaged his head. They didn’t have time for this!

“Urgh fine! But you’re on defense only. Don’t let the Fire Nation see you bend and make sure none of the other women and children get hurt.”

“On it.”

“Wait!” Sokka grabbed Katara’s arm and dipped his fingers in the war paint.

“We don’t have time!” Katara scoffed.

“Katara!” Sokka scolded. “You are not going to battle without the wolf spirits’ strength and protection.”

She took a breath to calm herself down knowing it would not be wise to neglect this important tradition.

“Right. Sorry.”

Sokka painted the on the wolf mask her while muttering an ancient prayer.

“Alright.” He gave her a firm nod. “Let’s go.”

~*~

The ground trembled as the great iron ship plowed through the ice and knocked down Sokka’s watch tower. The ramp dropped and intimating Fire Nation soldiers with their skull faces made their way down. They were led by a fierce maskless soldier with a large angry scar that took up nearly half of his face.

Sokka bravely stood his ground with his weapons drawn. He lets out a battle cry as he charged toward them. Katara winced as he was kicked off the side of the ramp. Sokka got up quickly and charged again but was intercepted by the accompanying Fire Nation soldiers. While Sokka fought them, the scarred soldier continued his march towards the women and children huddled in front of the village. Katara braced herself and stood protectively in front of them.

“Stop.” She spoke boldly in the common language. “We have no business with you. Turn and leave now.”

“Where are you hiding him?” he hissed.

“We hide nothing. Leave. Now.”

The scarred soldier snarled at her.

“He'd be about this age? Master of all elements?”

He tried to grab Kanna from the crowd, but Katara caught his arm, twisted it and pinned it against his back. The soldier grunted as he leaned forward and flipped Katara over him. She landed on her back but quickly kicked his legs from under him. Katara pulled out her knife and held it to his throat. From this angle, she got a better look at the soldier. He was about Sokka’s age and had golden eyes, opposed to the common brown eyes of the Fire Nation. The eye that was covered by his scar was faded and milky. Something clawed at the back of Katara’s mind.

She’d seen those eyes before.

Katara pressed the knife in deeper. “I won’t repeat myself again.” She hissed in Fire tongue to get the point across.

The soldier’s eyes widen for a moment before hardening. He roared fire out of his mouth straight into the air, just missing Katara’s face. She leaned back which gave the soldier enough room to push her off and launched an arch of fire over the villagers’ heads. They ducked and screamed in fear.

Katara looped her bow over his head and twisted it while yanking it backwards. The soldier managed to get his fingers between the drawstring and his neck to prevent being choked. He burned the drawstring off sending Katara falling backwards. He then jumped up and aimed a fireball towards her.

“Bring me the Avatar! Now!”

A glint in the distance caught his eye and he dodged a boomerang heading for his head.

“All out of tricks.” He growled.

Katara looked to his blind side and smirk.

“Eat ash.”

The soldier snarled at the insult before his helmet was knocked off by the returning boomerang. Sokka caught it then used it to club the soldier pinning him down. Katara kicked the dazed solider to the ground and pulled out another knife.

“KATARA!”

She stopped short and looked up to see Aang flying in on his glider. The soldier seized the moment to knock her off him and pinned her to the ground.

“Nice try peasant. I knew you were hiding him!”

Aang landed in the center of the fight and held his hands up in surrender.

“Stop hurting them! I’m the one you want!”

“Aang get out of here!” Sokka yelled as he struggled to break loose from the soldiers holding him.

“The Avatar. At last!” the scarred solider yelled triumphantly.

Katara’s stomach dropped. Aang was the Avatar. The last hope of the world. Now she really couldn’t let him be captured. She knew what the Fire Nation would do to him. Taking a page out of the scarred soldier’s book, Katara blew an icy breath onto his face. The soldier yelped and jumped back surprised. He glared her before returning his attention to Aang.

“I've spent years preparing for this encounter. Training. Meditating. You're just a child!”

Aang cocked his head to the side. “I’m 13. That’s technically a teenager. Besides, you’re just a teenager too!”

Katara sprang to her feet as one of Sokka’s young warriors tossed her a spear.

“Leave him alone!” she pointed it at him.

The scarred soldier growled and got into fighting position. They charged towards each other but were knocked in separate directions by a gust of wind.

“Stop fighting!” Aang demanded. “If I go with you, will you promise to leave everyone alone?”

The scarred soldier agreed and signaled for his men to let Sokka go. They threw him roughly to the ground. Katara rushed over to check on her brother.

“No, Aang! Don't do this!” she cried as the boy was dragged up the boat in chains.

Aang gave her a small smile.

“Look after Appa for me okay.”

The iron ramp shut loudly behind him. Images of her dad frantically running to catch up to her before the ramp cut them off flashed in Katara mind.

“NOO! STOP! AANG!”

She chased the departing war ship while calling out the young airbender’s name. He was just a child! Please don’t do this again!

Sokka stopped her from diving into the ocean after them.

“LET GO! I HAVE TO SAVE HIM!” She cried. “THEY’LL KILL HIM!"

Sokka pulled Katara into a hug to keep her from thrashing around. The adrenaline wore off as she wept against his chest.

“I’m sorry Katara.”

Chapter Text

“I know what you’re going to say.”

“Oh?”

“You can’t stop me Sokka.” Katara threw another bag into the small canoe then adjusted her freshly repaired bow. “I’m going after Aang whether you like it or not. Even if I have to go all the way back to the Fire Nation. I’ll do it. I’m not abandoning another friend.”

“I know.” Sokka dropped his own bag into the canoe. “I’m coming with you.”

Katara looked at him in surprise. Sokka merely shrugged.

“Can’t let my baby sister do recon in the Fire Nation by herself again. Besides, it’s Toklo Pack Leader of the Artic Wolves and Avatar Uki against the world, right?”

Katara smiled at the reference to the pretend games they used to play as children. She pulled her brother into a tight hug while thanking him. Sokka laughed then gently pushed her off telling her not to get mushy. They were about to take off when Kanna stopped them and presented their sleeping bags.

“You’re not mad at us?”

“No. Aang is the Avatar. He's the world's only chance. You both found him for a reason. Now your destinies are intertwined with his.”

She handed Katara the White Lotus tile Iroh gave her to escape the Fire Nation with.

“You’ll need this.” Kanna’s eyes sparkled. “Trust me.”

“The flower tile from the Fire Nation general?” Sokka asked suspiciously.

Katara stuck the tile in her pocket. Maybe it would come in handy again.

“Thanks Gran-Gran.” she hugged Kanna tightly, dragging Sokka in as well.

“My little waterbender. And my brave warrior.” Kanna smiled. “I’m so proud of both of you. Look after each other.”

“We will Gran.”

After they broke up, Katara glared at the small boat.

“There's no way we're gonna catch a war ship with a canoe.”

A low rumble ranged out. They saw Aang’s bison, Appa, crest the top of a hill.

“I have an idea.” Katara smiled as Sokka groaned.

“Oh no.”

~*~

Flying on the air bison exhilarating. The siblings caught up to the war ship in no time. From the sky, they saw Aang on deck running from the scarred soldier. He looked up and called to Appa before blocking a stream of fire with his staff. Katara drew her arrows and fired at the soldier.

“Prince Zuko watch out!” another solider warned.

Katara froze. It couldn’t be.

Zuko dodged the arrows and continued his attack as Appa landed on the ship. Ignoring Sokka’s warnings, Katara leapt off and landed between Aang and Zuko.

“Prince Zuko stop!” She cried in Fire tongue. “It’s me Uki!”

Zuko paused mid strike.

“W-What?” his eyes widen in disbelief. “No. You’re dead!”

“It is me Prince Zuko.” Katara removed her glove revealing the burn scars. “See.”

Zuko took a couple of shaky steps back. He looked at her like she was a ghost.

“How is that possible? Father said…” Zuko shook his head. “What are you doing here?!”

“What are you doing Prince Zuko?” Katara shot back. “Why are you hunting the Avatar?”

Zuko’s face harden. “You know why, Uki.”

Katara’s grip on her bow tighten. “The Avatar is the only hope of restoring balance to the world! If you take him back to the Fire Nation, they’ll kill him!”

“It’s my only way to restore my honor and return home!”

“What do you mean?” Katara asked slowly. Dread settled in her stomach as she looked at his twisted scarred face. Katara wanted to believe the sweet boy she befriended so long ago was still there.

Zuko’s balled up fists started to produce steam. “Uki, step aside. I’m taking the Avatar.”

Katara glanced at the boys behind her. Aang looked scared and Sokka on edge as he glared at Zuko. He didn’t understand a word of Fire tongue but knew it wasn’t good.

“Your Prince orders you!” Zuko barked. “Now!”

Katara bristled. He had never thrown his title at her like that before. This was not the Zuko she grew up with.

“You are not my prince." She pointed her bow right at him. “And you are not taking the Avatar.”

“Uki please. I don’t want to hurt you.” Zuko pleaded.

“My name is no longer Uki. I am Katara now. And no one is going to get hurt if you stand down!”

Zuko’s face harden. “So be it.”

He launched a fiery attack towards her. Katara jumped out of the way as Aang redirected it with a gust of wind. Sokka leapt off Appa and took down more soldiers. During the battle, Aang was knocked overboard and went into the Avatar state. Everyone froze and watched in awe. It was truly a sight to behold. Aang used waterbending to drive the ship into an iceberg before passing out. Katara grabbed him and the siblings escaped on Appa. She saw Iroh come onboard to see what was going on. His eyes widen when he saw Katara but that did not stop him from launching a fiery attack with Zuko. They barely escaped unscathed.

“Sooo. What was that about?” Sokka asked Katara as she wrapped blankets over an unconscious Aang.

“He was...an old friend.”

“Some friend.”

Katara looked back at the war ship now a speck on the water.

“You have no idea.”

Chapter Text

Katara half-listened to Aang ramble on about an airbending trick as she patched up Sokka’s pants. It had been a very stressful week. Though a welcomed break from mundane chores, constantly being on the move was more tiring than Katara remembered.

After leaving the Southern Water Tribe, they went to Aang’s old home in the Southern Air Temple. The siblings tried to explain to the young Avatar how dangerous the Fire Nation was but it didn’t sink in until he saw the charred bones of his mentor, causing him to enter the Avatar state. The power was rawer and more uncontrolled than on the war ship. Although Katara managed to snap Aang out of it, she was still a little shaken up.

“Stop bugging her, airhead. You need to give girls space when they do their sewing.” Sokka waved off Aang.

Katara groaned. “What does me being a girl have to do with sewing?”

“Simple: girls are better at fixing pants than guys, and guys are better at hunting and fighting and stuff like that. It's just the natural order of things.”

Katara plastered on a fake grin and spoke in the ‘pleasant cheery’ voice she’d used on the Fire Nation royals.

“All done with your pants! And look what a great job I did!”

She threw them at Sokka’s face and turned away angrily. Sokka tried to explain that he was just kidding.

“I can’t believe you! Did we not just hold off an entire Fire Nation army together?!”

“I meant that girls in general can’t fight!”

“Unbelievable.”

Aang patted Sokka’s back. “Don't worry, Sokka. Where we're going, you won't need any pants!”

“What?!”

Aang pointed to the island below that was coming in view. It was Kysohi Island.

Katara smirked.

“Sokka, there are some friends there I want you to meet there.”

~*~

Zuko sat completely still while slowly breathing in and out. The lit candles followed his breathing pattern. A good leader was always calm. But how could he be calm in a time like this?!

Uki was alive!

The Avatar had return!

Uki and the Avatar were working together…

A whirlwind of emotions swarmed inside Zuko. He felt relief, excitement, anger, betrayal, and even hope merging into a burry mess aching to be released. Zuko took another breath. He had to talk to Uki and patch things over. If she knew why he needed the Avatar, then surely, she would understand. Maybe even help him. At least not hate him anymore. Zuko couldn’t get the harden glare she threw at him out of his head. He slowly exhaled fire to calm himself.

He was going to make amends with his childhood friend and restore his honor. Nothing will stop him.

Everything was going to work out.

~*~

“Katara!” Suki pulled her friend into a warm hug. “It’s so good to see you again, sister!”

“You too! We would had used the entry but Aang wanted to swim with the elephant-koi fish.” She pointed towards a cluster of bushes where Aang was hiding.

“Hello!” Aang stuck his arm up and waved.

“You wouldn’t happen to have any extra pants, would you?” Katara asked bashfully.

Suki laughed. “Of course. But we have to deal with an intruder first though.”

“Intruder?”

Who would be so foolish to try to ambush an island full of warriors?

Suki nodded. “We tied him up to the Kyoshi statue.”

“Him?” Katara facepalmed. She knew she shouldn’t had let him scout ahead alone. “That’s Sokka, my brother.”

“Brother? Oh, that means you found your family! Wonderful!” Suki clapped. “C’mon I’ll take you back to the village.”

Katara gave Aang her parka before following Suki up the trail. Sure enough, they saw Sokka tied to the statue surrounded by Kyoshi Warriors.

“Ladies. Ladies. Please, there is a reasonable explanation for- KATARA!!!”

“Katara? Why would you-” Mingxia lowered her fans and turned around. “Katara! You’re back!”

The warriors pulled her into a group hug and gushed about how much they missed her.

“Wait. Wait. Wait. You know these people?!” Sokka gasped.

“Oh, they’re just the Earth Kingdom girls I had a sleepover with.” Katara said sarcastically causing the warriors to giggle. “But seriously, this goof’s my brother. Please untie him.”

After Sokka was released, they were invited to lunch. While Aang entertained the villagers and Sokka wandered off again, Katara quickly filled Suki in on everything that had happened so far.

“So, he’s really the Avatar?” Suki asked while watching Aang balance on an air scooter. “That’s amazing!”

“That’s not all.” She tugged her sleeves over her hands. “I… ran into my friend again.”

“The one you had to leave behind?”

Katara nodded.

“Are they alright?” Suki asked carefully noticing her discomfort.

“It’s like he’s a different person now. I know it’s because he was alone for so long with his fa- our abuser.” Katara sighed deeply. “If only I didn’t leave him…”

Suki placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “It’s not your fault Katara.”

Katara didn’t respond.

“Maybe if you could talk to him, it will help straighten things out.” Suki suggested gently.

“Maybe…”

“You never know until you try.” Suki stood and headed towards the door. “It’s almost time for practice. Wanna come?”

“Pass. I’d better pack for the trip. We have to leave soon.”

“Okay. Let me know if you need any help.”

As Suki left, Katara began to pack food as she pondered Suki’s advice. Maybe she was right. If she could just talk to Zuko, maybe things will work out.

~*~

Katara pulled the unconscious airbender under the bushes as the Fire Nation army marched by. She could see Zuko leading the troops up ahead.

“I want the Avatar alive.” He hissed.

Katara bit her lip. She couldn’t reason with him now. Besides, Aang needed her attention more. She flipped him onto his back and ran her hand above his chest looking for extra water. She felt it in his lungs and carefully guided it out. Aang coughed and sat up.

“Katara... don't ride the Unagi. Not fun.”

“Aang!” she gave the boy a tight hug. “We have to get you out of here.”

“Now without Appa, Momo, and Sokka!”

The two raced to the village where the Fire Nation was already wreaking havoc. Mingxia tossed Katara a pair of fans and a water pouch while telling her to hurry.

“Take Appa and leave now!” Katara shouted at Aang. “We’ll handle things!”

She ran into the flaming village before Aang could react. Katara used her bending to put out what fires she could and assisted the warriors against the soldiers. One of them landed roughly close by. A beam from a collapsing building swung towards them. Katara tackled them to the ground, just narrowly escaping from getting crushed.

“Are you al- SOKKA?!”

Katara gawked at her brother dressed head to toe in the Kysohi Warrior uniform right down to the makeup.

“Uh, hey baby sis...”

“What are you- ugh never mind.”

She pulled him to his feet as Suki and Mingxia joined them.

“Get the villagers to the safe area!” Suki ordered. “The Avatar is dealing with the Fire Prince! Move now!”

Katara looked past her and saw Aang and Zuko fighting. What was Aang still doing here?! Swearing under her breath, Katara rushed towards them. Aang had just blew Zuko into a building when Katara caught up.

“Aang, I told you to run!”

“Look what I brought to this place. I have to help!”

“You can’t be of any help if you’re dead! It’s the only way!”

Aang looked towards the bay as his eyes lit up.

“Maybe not...”

He whipped out his glider and flew off as Zuko crawled from the rubble. Their eyes instantly locked onto each other.

“Zuko. We need to talk.” Katara said slowly.

“Where is the Avatar?! He was just here!”

“Zuko.”

He looked between her and the Avatar’s retreating form. She was right. They really needed to talk but it would have to wait. The Avatar was getting away! Zuko couldn’t let him slip by again!

“Not now Uki!”

He turned to leave the direction Aang went when Katara threw an ice dagger at the back of his armor. It wasn’t sharp enough to do any damage but it was enough to get his attention. Zuko whipped back at her, furious.

“I told you it’s Katara! I’m not your family’s pet anymore!” She pulled out her fans. “Now stand down Zuko!!!”

“Prince Zuko.” He growled in frustration. “Have you forgotten your manners?!”

“I’m not the one attacking innocents!”

Zuko grabbed an abandoned Kyoshi Warrior sword from the rubble. They slowly walked in a circle, sizing each other up, before clashing. They went back and forth, swinging and dodging, just barley grazing each other. As Zuko brought down his sword, Katara blocked it with her fans, locking them in a stalemate.

“You don’t have to do this!” she cried.

“Yes, I do! It’s the only way to regain my honor!”

“There is no honor in hunting the only hope of the world! You know that!”

“I don’t have a choice! Did you think I wanted any of this?!” Zuko gestured to the burning village around them.

“You always have a choice! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! Follow your heart!”

Zuko squeezed his eyes shut as a war raged inside his mind.

“There’s good in you! I know it!” Katara pressed. “Don’t forget who you are!”

“ENOUGH!” Zuko yelled.

He pulled back the sword and struck again. Katara dodged, causing the sword lodged itself into one of the fans. She twisted it around, ripping the sword out of Zuko’s hand then caught it midair. Katara pointed it at his neck.

“Wanna try that again?”

Zuko spin kicked the blade in half. Katara hissed as she threw the broken sword aside and summoned ice daggers in each hand. Zuko he blew a stream of fire out of his nose. He then relaxed his fighting position as his eyes soften.

“I don’t want to hurt you Uk- Katara.” Zuko said gently. “You’re my friend.”

Katara lowered the ice daggers. He looked so sincere that her heart ached.

"Why are you doing this?" she asked again, quieter this time.

“The truth is, by order of the Fire- “

Zuko was sent flying away by a powerful gust of wind from Appa’s tail slamming against ground. Sokka leaned over the saddle with an outstretched hand.

“We gotta go now!”

“But- “

“NOW KATARA!”

She grabbed her brother’s hand and climbed onto the saddle while stealing a glance at Zuko. Guilt ate her alive. They were so close! What was he going to say?!

“Where’s Aang?” Sokka demanded as he steered Appa.

Katara pointed towards the bay. Just then, the Unagi burst through the water with Aang riding its head. It shot water over the burning village, quenching the fires. Aang jumped back onto the saddle as the sea monster dove back under.

“What in Koh’s lair…” Sokka gasped.

Aang sheepishly rubbed his head. “I know, I know. That was stupid and dangerous.”

Katara let out a sigh of relief.

“Yes, it was.”

Katara hugged him, causing the boy to blush. They cut it pretty close today. She had to get through to the Fire Prince before it was too late for all of them.

Including Zuko himself.

~*~

A faint sparkle caught his eye. Amongst the blacken coal dust and cold iron, a blue necklace laid forgotten. Zuko gingerly picked it up.

It was her necklace.

Of course! The report described a water tribe girl inciting the prison riot that led to the earth benders breaking out. Over the past few weeks, he had completely lost track of the Avatar and his allies. This could be the key to finding them again.

Zuko clutched the necklace and looked at the sun setting over the horizon.

Where are you?

Katara…

Chapter Text

'Fundamental Waterbending Katas and Mediation Guide. Hama of the Southern Water Tribe. 60 A.G.'

Katara was ecstatic. An actual Waterbending scroll owned by a Southern bender! It was old and smudged, but still in good condition. A dozen questions raced through Katara’s mind at once.

“Argh, that’s a rare one, sweetheart.” The guy behind the counter gave her a creepy smile. “Southern Water Tribe like yer self.”

"How did you get this?!”

“Err... Traded it.”

“The South doesn't trade. You guys are pirates!” Sokka hissed as his hand hovered over his club. “I knew it!”

"You stole this!" Katara glared at the pirate.

The South had trouble with raiding pirates that picked their tribe clean of all valuables. There was no denying how this scroll ended up on the ship.

“Pirates? Cool!!!” Aang beamed.

“No Aang we’re leaving.” Sokka tried to usher the boy towards the exit but he darted around saying he knew how to handle pirates. While Aang, Sokka, and the pirate hackled, Katara pretended to put the scroll back but slipped it into her sleeve instead.

It was time the pirates got a taste of their own medicine.

~*~

Zuko rubbed his thumb over the blue stone of Katara’s necklace nestled safely in his pocket. A habit he picked up whenever he thought about her which was often these days. Nearly a week had passed since investigating the Earthbender prison and still no more new leads.

He let out another long sigh as he followed his Uncle through the town on yet another shopping spree. He seemed lose his stupid Pai Sho tile more and more lately. It was the same every time. Sidetrack The Wangi at some random dingy Earth Kingdom town. Mail a letter at the post although they had a perfectly working messenger hawk. Fill up the ship with more useless junk and tea leaves. Despite all of Zuko’s rage and protest, Uncle won out every single time.

Zuko adjusted his hood as a small crowd passed by. Most people held great contempt for the Fire Prince, banished or not. Some of the gustier ones have tried several times to turn him over to Earth Kingdom soldiers for a large prize. The soldiers were especially proud about crushing Firebenders' hands, crippling them. It was best to keep a low profile.

“We lost the Water Tribe girl and the little bald monk she was traveling with!” one of them barked angrily.

Water Tribe girl?! Monk?!

It had to be them! Finally!!!

Zuko roughly shoved a couple of bystanders aside and butted in.

“This monk, did he have an arrow on his head?!”

“Who wants to know?!”

“Help me find them and I’ll pay you handsomely.” Zuko pulled out a pouch of gold coins.

The pirates eyed the money hungrily. One reached out for it but Zuko yanked his hand back.

“After we find them.”

“Of course.”

“Nephew!” Iroh came rushing out of a store holding a bizarre grinning monkey statue. “Look what I found!”

“Not now Uncle!!!” Zuko glared at him as the pirates laughed.

“Dusk at The Black Tooth in Yánshí docks. Don’t be late boy.” The leader hissed as he snatched the pouch before slinking away.

“I got a lead on the Avatar!" Zuko told Iroh as the old general caught up. "We leave immediately!”

“No Nephew. Let this lead go. Those were Black Tooth pirates. The most ruthless ones of the Earth Kingdom.” Iroh shook his head. “They’ll turn you in to the Earth Kingdom soldiers within a heartbeat. It’s too dangerous.”

“What do you know?! All you do is waste time and money on junk we don’t need! At least I’m actually doing something!!!”

“That’s final, Zuko!” Iroh said firmly. "I won't repeat myself!"

Zuko growled and stomped away furious. If Uncle didn’t want to help him then fine! He didn’t need his help anyway!!!

It was time to take matters into his own hands.

~*~

“Shh! Momo, go back to sleep.”

The lemur chirped curiously before curling up next to her brother. Katara let of a sigh of relief. She continued her solemn track through the forest. After they escaped from pirates, Sokka chewed her out for painting a bigger target on their backs because of the stolen scroll. Then she lost her temper with Aang when he easily mastered the levation moves she had yet to crack. Aang looked at her like a kicked owl kitten. Katara swore she’d never lose her temper with the boy again.

She put a fair amount of distant between her and the makeshift camp. Katara needed privacy to practice and get in back in the right state of mind. Even after all these years, she was still slightly anxious about bending in front of people due to being forced to hide her abilities for so long. Solitude would help her focus on mastering these new techniques. The forest was dense and well hidden with not a soul in sight. Katara took a deep breath soaking in the quietness.

She unrolled the scroll and read it carefully under the filtered moonlight. Hama took notes on everything. She even included some moves she made up herself. After studying the katas, Katara carefully lifted a ball of water from the river and tried to manipulate.

A twig snapped.

Katara dropped the water and pulled out a knife.

“Sokka? Aang?”

The wind rustled through the trees. The hairs on the back of her neck rose. It felt like she was being watched.

“Who’s there? Show yourself!”

Something caught Katara’s eyes. She jumped out of the way as a net was fired towards her. Pirates burst through the trees, waving weapons and fired more nets. Katara swore as she grabbed the scroll and took off. There were too many to take on at once. One roughly grabbed her from behind. Katara sliced his arm open and elbowed him in the stomach. Just as she escaped, she ran right into someone else who grabbed both of her wrists.

“I'll save you from the pirates.”

“Get off!” Katara demanded. She was about to kick him in the groin when the stranger tilted his head revealing an angry red scar under the hood.

“Katara it’s me! I’m not going to hurt you.”

“Zuko?!”

“Good work boy. She’ll make fine bait for your little monk friend.”

Bait?! Katara glared at him. All the plans of reasoning with Zuko evaporated as anger flared up inside her.

“How dare you?! Is an entire army at your beckon call not enough?! Now you hire pirates to your dirty work?!” Katara snarled. “What did His Highness not want to get his fancy warship banged up anymore?!”

“Silence Katara!” Zuko hissed as he glanced at the pirates muttered amongst themselves.

“Oh ho! You didn’t tell your new friends about your royal status?! And yet you feel the need to constantly remind me! So much for manners, eh PRINCE ZUKO OF THE FIRE NATION!!!!”

“QUIET!“

The pirates edged closer with weapons pointed at them. Zuko swore under his breath as he released Katara. The teenagers stood back to back as the pirates surrounded them. Zuko summoned fire daggers in both hands as Katara pulled out her remaining knife.

“This is our lucky day boys.” The captain grinned. “The Fire Prince and the Water Scroll Thief for the price of one.”

“What did you do?!” Katara whisper-shouted at Zuko.

“This is why I told you to be quiet.” Zuko said through gritted teeth. “Uncle said these pirates couldn’t be trusted.”

“You should had listened to him!”

“You should had listened to me!”

“Oh, so this is my fault now?!”

“Aye! Quit yer yappin’!” the captain growled. “We can do this nicely like civilized folk. Or we can do this the hard way. Yer choice.”

Zuko and Katara side glanced each other and nodded.

Without a word, they both charged the pirates.

Chapter Text

Sokka knew he should had kept a closer eye on his sister. When he and Aang woke up that morning, she was gone along with the scroll. While searching for her, they found damage at the edge of the forest by the bay, indicating there was a struggle. No doubt it was the pirates from yesterday. There were also burn marks that littered the area.

Zuko.

Sokka tried to keep a calm demeanor in front of Aang to not worry the boy any further, but he was freaking out on the inside. Did he lose Katara to the Fire Nation again?! After searching the forest, the boys went to town to ask around. It was a port town. Somebody had to know something about where these pirates frequented.

“I’m worried Sokka.” Aang said as he leaned against the postal building. Momo chirped in agreement. “What if Prince Zuko did something to her?”

“We’ll find her Aang.”

A lady picking up a letter nearby perked up. “Excuse me, who are you looking for?”

“Our friend Katara. She’s from the Water Tribe and we think she was taken by Prince Zuko and pirates!”

“Oh no that's terrible. I’m so sorry, dear. These pirates, did each of them have one black tooth?”

“Yeah! We ran into them earlier.”

Sokka eyed the mysterious lady suspiciously. She was wearing a dark cloak which was not unusual for the brisk autumn weather. But the thing that caught his attention were her pale skin and brown-gold eyes that were unmistakably Fire Nation.

“Who are you?” he demanded.

“…A friend.”

“Nice try.” He jumped in front of Aang and raised his club defensibly. “You’re Fire Nation!”

The lady took a step back. “I mean you no harm.”

“Not everyone in the Fire Nation is evil!” Aang protested as he peaked over Sokka’s shoulder.

“Stand back Aang! This isn’t a hundred years ago.” He narrowed his eyes. “Never trust an ash-maker.”

The lady looked hurt at his words. She held up a letter and revealed its emblem. A white lotus.

“Does this mean anything to you, young man?”

Sokka’s eyes widen. He thought about Gran-Gran’s words and her knowing look when she told them to take the tile along. Much to Sokka’s dismay, his instincts told him to take the risk. Sokka pulled out Katara’s tile and showed it to the lady.

“My sister was able to escape the Fire Nation using this. Is this a secret flower society or something?”

Aang gasped. “Are you a spy?!” He quickly clamped his hand over his mouth and muttered sorry.

“It means you can trust anyone with this symbol.” The lady slipped the letter into her sleeve. “Now about your friend. She was taken by The Black Tooth pirates.”

“And Zuko.” Sokka added. “They were working together.”

“Then they must be taking both of them to the Earth Kingdom’s naval headquarters.”

“Why there? They’re pirates!”

“The soldiers offer reward money for captured firebenders. Enough gold for pirates to expose themselves to authorities.”

"Good." Sokka waved off. "Let them deal with the angry jerk."

The lady bristled. "The soldiers crush firebenders' hands to cripple their bending."

"Like I said, good."

"Sokka!" Aang glared at him. Sokka looked away feeling slightly guilty. "What about Katara, ma'am? She's not a firebender. What would the pirates do with her?"

She dropped her gaze. “They’ll sell her to the brothel near the base.”

Sokka’s gaze harden as Aang gave her a confused look. Before he could ask what a brothel was, Sokka demanded directions to the naval base. The lady told them and Sokka took off running. Aang bowed and thanked her.

“Please be careful, dear.”

“Don’t worry. We’ll recuse Katara. And Prince Zuko.”

The lady gave him a small smile as her face flooded with relief and gratitude.

“Thank you.”

~*~

Katara woke up sore all over and with a throbbing headache. She squinted in the darkness as the previous events flooded her. The fight against the pirates was close but, in the end, they were simply out numbered. She and Zuko were drugged with bender suppressants, bound by the wrists, then thrown into the ship’s dungeon. Katara passed out shortly after. She had no idea how long its been since then.

“You’re awake.” Zuko’s raspy voice sounded close by. “Katara, I’m- “

“Save it.” She said bitterly. “It’s your fault we’re in this mess.”

The ship jerked forward as it sliced through the water. The low creaks combined with the bobbing sensation was nauseating. As Katara’s heartrate increased, it became harder and harder to breathe. She squeezed her eyes shut and forced herself to keep talking.

“You’re horrible, you know that. I used to think that you were at least slightly better than your crazy warmongering family but looks like I was wrong. Hunting the Avatar. Burning down villages. Working with pirates. Violence is just in your blood.”

Zuko looked away ashamed. He was snapped out of his spiraling thoughts by Katara’s hyperventilation.

“Are you okay?”

“I… can’t… breathe… “

“Katara!”

Was she having an allergic reaction to the drugs?! Maybe her lungs were damaged during the fight? Zuko pounded against the wall trying in vain to get the pirates attention.

“Hey! She needs help!!!”

“LET ME OUT!” Katara screamed in between breaths. “LET ME OUT! LET ME OUT!!!”

Zuko blanched. Katara spent serval months alone locked in the bottom of a war ship when she was taken to the Fire Nation. Now she was in a similar situation heading spirits know where. Remembering what his uncle did to help him during similar attacks, Zuko laid down beside her and spoke in soft gentle tones.

“You’re okay Katara. Deep breaths. In through the nose and out through the mouth. Copy me.”

Zuko demonstrated loud enough for her to hear.

Katara shakily copied his breathing pattern.

“That’s it. What are five things you can see?”

“T-The walls.”

“Good. What else?”

Katara looked around frantically.

“T-The ropes. My boots. My hands. Y-You.”

“Okay. Good." Zuko nodded encouragingly. "What are four things you can touch?”

Katara described the hard wooden floor, the fur in her shoes, the ropes against her wrists, and her braid resting on her back. Her heartrate started to slow down. Zuko asked her to describe three things she could hear, two she smelt, and one she tasted. Katara’s head stopped spinning and she could breathe easily again.

“How did you know what to do?” she whispered.

“Uncle used this method to help calm me down after the Agni Kai when I found out about my banishment.” Zuko answered softly. "And during those long sleepless nights."

“You were banished?” Silent tears poured out of Katara’s eyes. She thought he was just on one of those Fire Nation honor quests the royals went crazy over.

Zuko looked up at the ceiling. His banishment was not something he enjoyed talking about but Katara deserved to know.

“As you know, I spoke against the old general’s plan and was challenged to an Agni Kai. But it wasn’t the general I was to duel.” Zuko swallowed the lump in his throat. “It was my father. I refused to fight him and begged for his forgiveness. He told me I needed to learn respect and suffering would be my teacher. Then he burned me for refusing the duel and banished me unless I returned with the Avatar.”

Katara was horrified. She looked at Zuko’s scarred side facing her. The rough scarlet skin and milky white gaze screamed at her. Guilt ate her alive when she realized she compared him to that monster he calls father.

“Zuko that’s horrible...”

“It could had been worst.” He said numbly.

“He ordered you to duel him when you were just a child! Then melted half your face off! How could that possibly be worst?!”

“He could had killed me. Father showed mercy.”

“That wasn’t mercy! That was cruel and wrong!!!”

“Now you know why I need the Avatar. It’s my only way home.”

“You still want to go back?” Katara asked quietly. “Even after what he did and how he treated you?”

“What other choice do I have? The only other option is to remain the banished prince cursed to wander the world chasing a ghost.”

Katara was silent for a moment as she processed. She felt the deep heaviness and hopelessness that dripped off his voice. Deep in her heart, Katara knew what she had to do.

“I know what is like to not be able to go home. It's horrible. Like you don't belong anywhere, lost forever."

Zuko's breath hitched. He was never able to put it into words but Katara described it perfectly.

"I just want to go home..." his voice cracked.

Katara closed her eyes to collect herself. "You're not out of options, Zuko. There’s another choice.”

“There is? What?”

Zuko looked at her with glassy eyes. Katara took a deep breath and told him what she should had said years ago.

“Run away with me.”

Chapter Text

“W-What?”

“The morning of the Agni Kai, I ran away from the Fire Nation. I came to your room say goodbye but I was too much of a coward to break the news to you. Let alone ask you to come with me. But I’m asking you now.” Katara looked at him earnestly. “Come to the Northern Water Tribe with me, Aang, and Sokka."

Zuko was dumbfounded. After everything he had done to them, Katara still invited him to her group.

“…Why?”

“Because, you deserve so much better.”

“I- “

The dungeon door burst open letting in blinding sunlight. The teenagers hissed while the captain laughed at them.

“Hope I ain't interrupting anything.” He smirked as the pirates roughly dragged them out of the dungeon. “Say goodbye to ya girl, mate. She’s about to become an used object.”

“What are you gas bags talking about?!” Zuko sneered.

The captain simply tsked. “Spoiled brat.”

The pirates led them down the plank to some sort of base with Earth Kingdom flags blowing everywhere and small buildings close to the many docks. The teenagers resisted best they could but they were still too weak from the drugs and malnutrition. There was a large crash in the distance followed by a blood curdling scream.

“Aye, sounds like they got another ash-maker.” A pirate grinned.

Deep dread settled inside Katara as she connected the dots. She glanced at Zuko whose face was etched with horror.

The captain pushed forward and greeted a woman dressed in fancy robes standing on the docks.

“There she is!” he exclaimed. “The most beautiful pearl of the sea.”

The woman rolled her eyes then pulled out her fan.

“I do hope you brought something better than those scrawny hags you keep fishing up. Last gal ran off and drowned herself on me.”

“Nothing but the best for the queen of the tides.” The captain purred as he kissed her hand.

He signaled his pirates to bring Katara forth. They roughly forced her to knees and yanked her head back.

“Beauty ain’t she. Feisty too.”

“Let go of me!!!”

“Hush.” The woman grabbed Katara’s face to inspect it. “Hmm right age. Sturdy. Attractive features. Water Tribe too. Not common round here. I can charge extra for that.”

She noticed Katara’s burned hands and scoffed.

“What did you do? I told you I needed fresh products!”

“Argh she was like that when I found her!”

“Ugh, I’m going to have to mark her down for damage now.”

Zuko’s blood boiled. How dare they treat Katara that way! She wasn’t a bowl of fruit at the market place! Before he could give them a piece of his mind, Katara broke free from the woman’s grasp and growled at her.

“Hands off lady! I am NOT your property!!!”

The woman made a disguised face then slapped her.

“KATARA!” Zuko screamed as he struggled against the pirates. “YOU BASTARDS!”

They were going to pay for that!

“That's Lady Yubaba.” She sneered, ignoring Zuko’s cries. “But it’s Mistress to you, girl.”

“Told ya she’s feisty.” The captain grinned as he accepted the pouched of gold from Lady Yubaba. “Oh, no bonus for her being foreign?”

“Like I said, marked down for damage. Consider this incentive for picking up fresher products.”

“Heartless as the sea this one.” The captain shook his head. “You there, take the girl to the brothel and help her get settled in. We got a firebender to cash in.”

Brothel?! Zuko struggled harder, caring more about Katara being taken to that horrible place than his looming doom just over the hill. The pirates dragged them off in opposite directions.

“KATARA!!!”

“ZUKO!!!”

They kept screaming each other’s names even after Zuko disappeared over the hill and Katara was at the brothel’s entrance. There was another crash followed by another gut-wrenching scream.

“NOOO!!!” Katara screamed through tears.

“I do wish they gagged them first.” Lady Yubaba complained then turned to the pirates. “Hurry up. You know how the soldiers get after their little pass time.”

“You’re a foul horrible woman!!!”

“Silence girl. You will learn respect.”

Lady Yubaba raised her hand to strike again when a shadow blocked the sun. Appa landed in front of them with a ground shaking thud and roared. Lady Yubaba fainted as the pirates holding Katara made a break for it. While Appa chased the pirates, Sokka cut the ropes around Katara’s wrists and embraced her. Katara had to tell him that she was fine several times before it finally sunk in.

“We have to help Zuko!” she cried.

“Aang already took off to help him. And look!” Sokka pointed towards the dock where the Wangi pulled up and Fire Nation soldiers stormed out. “They were heading the same direction searching for Zuko. We just did beat them here.”

Katara’s heart skipped a beat. Maybe it wasn’t too late!

Appa let out a proud roar and licked Katara.

“I missed you too Appa.” She laughed breathlessly.

Sokka climbed onto the sky bison while telling his sister to hurry.

“Wait!” she pointed towards the brothel. “There are girls trapped in there! We gotta help them!”

“I don’t know if Appa can carry- “

Katara ran into the building before he could finish.

“What am I saying?” Sokka muttered to himself. “Wait here buddy.”

He patted Appa then jumped down and followed his sister into the small building. There was a desk in the front room cluttered with scrolls. Behind it was a hallway with three rooms on each side. There were no doors, only curtains. Katara was already inside one speaking softly to someone. As Sokka pushed the curtain aside, his heart dropped.

A young disheveled Fire Nation girl sat on an old mat with her wrist chained to the wall.

Her hands were missing…

The girl flinched and scooted into the corner when she saw him. Her wild frantic eyes bore right into his soul.

Sokka felt sick.

Fire Nation or not, this girl, this... child for spirit's sake, was still a person abused and held against her will.

“It won’t budge!” Katara pulled on the chain, snapping Sokka out of his thoughts. “We need keys!”

“On it!”

Sokka tore the desk inside out searching for them. He even overturned the potted plant.

Nothing!

Sokka racked his mind. Where could they be?! His eyes lit up when he finally realized the only logical place to keep keys. Sokka raced outside to the passed out woman who looked like she owned the place. She was starting to wake up when Sokka pointed his club at her and demanded for the keys. The woman shakily handed them to him before bolting towards the Earth Kingdom naval headquarters building. He ran back inside and tossed them to Katara.

“You unlock them. I gotta take care of something.”

Sokka ran back to the front desk and scattered the scrolls and paper. He found a jar of oil and poured it on the walls, curtains, and around the perimeter.

“That’s all of them!” Katara said as she helped the last girl onto Appa. “What are you doing?”

“Making sure this place stays closed for good.” Sokka said as he used sparked rocks to light a makeshift torch.

“Soldiers!” one of the girls warned.

The siblings looked up and saw a squad quickly charging towards them. Sokka threw the torch through the window then climbed onto Appa after Katara. The bison let a low groan as he rose to the sky.

“It’s okay. Your safe now.” Katara said gently to their new passengers huddled together. She then turned her attention to her brother. “We need to help Zuko and Aang!”

“Way ahead of you!” Sokka called back and steered Appa towards the hills.

Katara looked back at the brothel crumbling under the flames, relieved that terrible place was destroyed.

She just hoped they were not too late for her friends.

Chapter Text

Zuko felt like he was going to vomit.

The man screamed and screamed as he pressed his arms against his chest to try to stop the bleeding while the onlookers merely laughed.

“Got another one for ya, Shan.” The pirate captain shoved Zuko forward.

“The Fire Prince?!” Shan gapped at Zuko’s scar.

“The one and only.”

“You’ve outdone yourself captain.” Shan grinned as he tossed a large bag of gold to him. “Drinks on me!”

“That man needs help!” Zuko interrupted. “He’s going to bled out and die!!!”

“Yeah, that’s the point, Your Majesty. He can join his friend in the ditch.” Shan laughed harshly. “Fair trade huh? You burn down our villages and kill our people, we crush your benders and return them to the earth.”

The ground opened up under the man and swallowed him whole. Zuko stared in horror. Images of Lu Ten being buried alive flashed before his mind. With a furious cry, he tried to attack the soldier only to be kicked to the ground.

“Pathetic ash-maker.” the captain tsked. “Especially since we sold his girl to Lady Yubaba.”

“Oh, a new one? Let’s hurry up then.”

“DON’T YOU BASTARDS TOUCH HER!!!”

Zuko’s cries fell on deaf ears as the soldiers hoisted him onto the bloodied rock. He continued the fight and resist to no avail.

It couldn’t end like this!

Without warning, the pirates and soldiers were swept away by a mighty gust of wind. A small figure dropped down behind Zuko and raised his staff defensibly.

“The Avatar?” Zuko gasped as the sky lemur landed on his arms and chewed on the ropes.

“Prince Zuko! We’re here to bust ya out!”

“We’re?” Zuko asked while he pulled the ropes apart.

“Nephew!” Iroh called from the top of the hill as his troops charged towards them.

“Uncle!”

Some nearby soldiers scrambled to their feet and tried to attack. As Aang dealt with them, one was flung back and hit his head hard. Zuko pulled out his dagger and held it against his neck.

“Release those benders! NOW!!!”

The soldier flicked his wrist, shooting both men from the earth, one coughing violently and the other one still as stone. Zuko knocked out the soldier then rushed to the benders' aid. He ripped off his cloaked and wrapped it over the man’s wrists to stop the bleeding. Iroh finally reached them and knelt down to check the unconscious man. His grim expression confirmed Zuko’s dire suspicions.

“We need to retreat.” Iroh said as he helped the man up. “SOLDIERS FALL BACK!”

With the Avatar’s help, the Wangi’s crew made it back to the ship and set sail leaving both the pirates and Earth Kingdom soldiers behind. Zuko ordered his crew to take the man to the medic.

“Are you alright?” the Avatar asked concerned as he perched on the ship's railing.

All Zuko could do was merely nod. His body shook uncontrollably from pushing himself too hard and his brain was fuzzy.

The Avatar nodded back then flew off on his glider. His sky bison flew nearby loaded with extra people Zuko’s never seen before. His eyes met Katara’s glassy blue ones. A silent moment passed between them as they flew by and disappeared into the clouds. Zuko sagged with relief.

Katara was safe.

Zuko’s mind replayed her invitation. Was she serious about joining them? Would the others accept him? Did he even want to go with them in the first place?

“Prince Zuko.”

Zuko snapped out of his thoughts to find Iroh standing beside him. Guilt flooded him immediately.

“I’m sorry Uncle. I should had listened to you.”

The old general placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“I’m just glad you’re alright my nephew.” He smiled warmly. “Many lives were saved today. Let us focus on that.”

“How did you find us?”

“An old friend sent an emergency message tipping us off to your location.”

Zuko nodded as he stuck his hands in his pocket. His hands brushed against something hard and his heart dropped. How could he had forgotten?

“Where to now, Your Highness?” Jee asked.

“The nearest port. We need to get that man to a hospital.” Zuko pulled out Katara’s necklace and ran his thumb over the smooth stone, heart filled with mixed emotion.

“Then set a course for the Northern Water Tribe.”

~*~

The trip to Kyoshi Island was silent. Everyone was exhausted both mentally and physically. They arrived a few hours later right before dusk. Much to their disappointment, Suki and her squad already left to join the war against the Fire Nation. However, there were still warriors present who promised to look after the rescued girls.

“You’ll be safe here. I promise.” Katara reassured the girls. “These warriors took good care of me when I was younger. They will help you too.”

“Even if you’re F-Fire Nation?” the girl from the first room asked timidly in Fire Tongue.

“Yes. This is a neutral zone.” Katara responded back in the language. The girl perked up hearing her native tongue.

“We are all sisters here." Asahi walked up also speaking Fire Tongue. "The warriors took me in when I ran away from my abusive parents in the Fire Nation.”

The Kyoshi Warrior gently pulled the crying girl into a hug. “You’re safe now.”

~*~

The group spent a couple of days on the island resting before setting off again. Katara decided now would be the best time to ask about the boys’ adventure while searching for her.

“We asked around town and a flower spy told us where to find you.”

“Flower spy?” Katara repeated. She looked at Sokka who merely shrugged.

“She had dark hair, really tall, and spoke properly. Like super proper. She called me dear 3 times which was kind of sweet actually”. Aang described. “Oh, and she was Fire Nation.”

“Fire Nation? Why would she help you then?”

“That’s what I thought.” Sokka spoke up. “But she showed a white lotus symbol that looked like the one the general gave you to escape the Fire Nation. There’s something going on here. From now on, keep your eyes out for white lotuses. We might need this flower cult’s help again.”

“Sokka, you think everything’s a cult.” Katara rolled her eyes. “But I agreed.”

She wondered who this spy could be. They sounded vaguely familiar. Katara decided to ponder on that later.

“I need to tell you something.” She began.

“Please don’t tell me you and Zuko hooked up in the pirate ship.” Sokka moaned.

Katara punched his arm while yelling at him to be serious.

“I am being serious! You two were like best friends forever as kids and always ending up fighting each other on the battle field even though Zuko’s supposed to be hunting Aang.”

“You’re… you’re not actually in love with him, are you?” Aang asked somewhat shyly. “I-I thought we…”

“That’s not what I was going to say! Stop putting words in my mouth!”

Aang breathed a sigh of relief as Sokka rolled his eyes.

“Okay, we’re listening. Shoot.”

Katara took a deep breath. “Zuko told me the reason he’s hunting Aang. It’s… not pretty.”

She told them about the general’s plan, the Agni Kai, and resulting banishment, but left out Ozai scarring his face. Katara sensed it was a sensitive topic Zuko had not yet come to terms with and wouldn’t want anyone else to know. When she finished, a heavy atmosphere settled over the small group. Katara hugged Aang as tears started to flow from his eyes. Sokka was deadly silent as he gazed out at the horizon.

“We have to end this war.” He said lowly. “It’s brought too much suffering. To everyone.”

“There’s one more thing.” Katara brought up.

She took a deep breath then spoke firmly.

“I told Zuko we were going to the Northern Water Tribe. And I asked him to join us.”

Chapter Text

Zuko double knotted the mask then secured his swords.

News of Zhao capturing the Avatar spread like wildfire. He was planning on taking the young airbender back to the Fire Nation the next morning which meant Zuko only had tonight to break him out. Zuko threw a cover over the pillows on his bed then tied Katara’s necklace on his wrist out of habit. He was still unsure about her offer to join them but Zuko was certain about one thing.

If Zhao so much as laid a finger on Katara, he’ll won’t be as merciful as their last encounter.

~*~

“Weeks of navigation maneuvers, laying low, and playing it safe for what? You just go on and tell your Fire buddy where we’re heading!”

Katara groaned before letting out another round of coughs. She knew Sokka would not take well her asking Zuko to join and where they were going. He mostly kept his opinion to himself noting how distraught the others were. But now that he was sick, it was all coming out.

“Can’t trust… those… fire…”

“Even after I told you what Zuko’s been through? He has good in him Sokka, I know it.”

“They… they took her… they took her…”

Katara deflated. So that is what this is about. She scooted closer despite knowing she would only get sicker.

“I’m here Sokka.” She rubbed his head gently.

“Katara… I’m sorry… I couldn’t save…”

“It’s okay. I’m here now Sokka.” Her voice cracked. “You did well. I’m so proud of you.”

As Sokka finally dozed off, Katara covered her mouth to cry silently. Rain began to pour down just outside their cave entrance. Still no sign of Aang with the medicine. Katara pulled the blankets tighter around her brother then settled down beside him as sleep pulled her under.

“I’m here Sokka.”

~*~

The Pohuai Stronghold earned its fierce reputation. Zuko and the Avatar barely made it out alive. He woke under a tree with a splitting headache. The Avatar sat on a raised tree root close by.

“You’re awake.”

Zuko simply stared. After all these months, he could scarcely believe the airbender was real. He felt more like something out of a spirit tale than ancient history.

“I… I brought you here after you were knocked out. Don’t worry, I didn’t peak under your mask. But you might want to get it looked at.”

Zuko nodded. He wondered if he should reveal himself now. Surely Katara told her allies about her invitation to him. Zuko brushed his hand against his wrist only to discover the necklace was gone.

No! Did he drop it somewhere? Stupid! He knew he should had left it on the ship or given it to the Avatar so he could return it to Katara.

“Are you nervous?” the Avatar asked curiously. “You’re wringing your hands.”

Gah! Zuko thought he broke that habit!

“It’s okay. We’re friends now.”

This kid was way too trusting. It was probably how he got captured in the first place.

“I’ll take you to see my other friends. One of them might be able to check your wounds. But first I need to get something.” The Avatar ran forward and beckoned for him to come along. Zuko sighed. It was now or never.

They walked for a while in silence before coming to a frozen bog. The Avatar started shoving frozen frogs into his robe. The same frogs he said he needed for his friends before Zuko broke him out of the stronghold. Maybe it was a Water Tribe dish? Whatever the frogs were for, it seemed important. Zuko helped the Avatar so they could leave faster. The Yuyan Archers were no doubt searching the forest for them. The Avatar smiled widely and thanked him.

“This should be enough. Let’s get going.”

~*~

Blue flames rain from the sky as crazed laughter echoed all around her.

She dodged the flames the best she could, desperate to get to the limp figure in the center. She turned him over, only to be met with lifeless golden eyes.

Katara woke up with a scream making its way up her throat. It was stopped by this thing in her mouth. Katara spat it out and coughed. She heard Sokka doing the same and scrapping his tongue.

“It worked! Thank the spirits. I thought that old herbiest was just crazy.”

“Aang what are you- “Katara stopped short when she saw a masked figure hovering at the entrance of the cave.

“Aang get back!” Sokka yelled as he pulled out his boomerang.

“Wait! He’s with me! He busted me out the Pohuai Stronghold!”

“The WHAT?! How do we know we can trust him?” Sokka marched up him. “Remove you mask. Now.”

The stranger pulled out his swords causing Sokka to raise his boomerang prepared to strike.

“Stop!” Katara jumped in front of them. “This person just recused Aang from the most secured Fire Nation stronghold in the world. I think we should at least here him out.”

“She’s right.” Aang added. “What if he’s a flower spy? That’s why he’s wearing the mask.”

“Or he could a Fire Nation spy and just trying to throw us off!”

“That doesn’t even make sense! Why would the Fire Nation send a spy to free Aang from a Fire Nation stronghold only to capture him later?!”

“I don’t know! You know we can’t trust them.”

Katara gave him a dirty look.

“Fine.” Sokka pulled out the white lotus tile and almost shoved it into his face. “Does this mean anything to you?”

The stranger lowered his sword and tilted his head.

“See. He’s not a flower spy.” Sokka said pointedly. “But it still doesn’t explain why he won’t remove his mask.” He glared at the stranger.

“Maybe he has a pimple.” Aang shrugged. “Or he's shy.”

“Or maybe we could ask him and stop talking like he isn’t right in front of us.” Katara turned to face him. “You can trust us. I promise.”

The stranger stared at her for a moment considering her words. He put his swords in the sheath and began to untie his mask.

An arrow pinned his sleeve to the wall.

Sokka threw his boomerang, knocking the archer out of a tree. More arrows rained down.

“We need to move now!” Sokka yelled as he caught his boomerang.

The stranger freed his arm and whipped out his swords. He used them to block the arrows, creating a path for Aang to run ahead and blow the archers out of the trees. It brought them enough time to get Appa out of the cave. More archers replaced the fallen ones. The stranger blocked as many arrows as he could while Appa rose to the sky.

“Grab my hand!” Katara leaned over the saddle with her arm outstretched.

The stranger sheathed his swords and sprinted after them. Using a fallen tree as a springboard, he launched himself into the air and grabbed Katara’s hand. An arrow pierced his leg causing him to scream in pain. Katara pulled him into the saddle as Aang summoned another gust of wind to take care of the rest of the archers. Katara pulled out the arrow then began healing his wound with her waterbending.

“When did you learn that?” Sokka gawked at her.

“Quiet. I need to concentrate.”

Katara was still a novice but thankfully the wound was not deep.

“There. All better. We can’t drop him off with the archers crawling around.”

Sokka sighed deeply as Aang let out a quiet yes.

“Which means…” Katara smiled warmly at the masked stranger. “Welcome to Team Avatar.”

~*~

Zhao was furious.

He had the Avatar in his clutches only to have some scrawny punk in a theater mask break him out. At least his archers were able to shoot down the messenger hawk before it reached the Fire Lord. He’ll never be able to recover from such a failure if it was made know at the courts.

“Any news on the fugitives?”

The Yuyan archer revealed a blue necklace. “They escaped on a sky bison but the masked intruder dropped this when he was hit.”

Zhao took the necklace and examined it closely. It was from the Northern Water Tribe.

“Scribe a new message to the Fire Lord requesting naval backup. The North has sided with the Avatar. I say it’s high time we pay them a visit.”

Chapter Text

Zuko did not think this through.

He did not mean to join the Avatar’s group so quickly. It just happened. Now he couldn’t go back to the Wangi to let Uncle know where he was without looking suspicious. Much less remove his mask.

How does he keep getting into these things?

Zuko sat on a rock in a mediation pose as he watched Sokka wrestle with a fish and Aang painfully flirt with Katara. Another wave of guilt washed over him as Aang produced a woven necklace to replace Katara’s lost necklace. If Zuko had just left it on the ship, he could get back to her. Eventually.

“How long are you going to keep this up Zuko?” Katara whispered in Fire Tongue as she sat down beside him.

“How did you know it was me?” He asked in a false deep voice.

“Seriously?” Katara gave him an amused expression. “Who else would be crazy enough to dress up as The Blue Spirit and use dual swords to break into the strongest fort on the planet? Honestly I would have been disappointed if it wasn’t you.”

Zuko felt his cheeks heat up. “You mean it?”

“Of course. But why leave the mask on? We’re not going to hurt you.”

“I know. I just want to make sure you can be trusted. Not you just your friends. Not that they’re bad or anything they actually seem fine. It’s just, uh…”

Katara let out a soft laugh.

“I get it.” She smiled. “Does General Iroh know?”

“Uh…”

Katara glared at him. “You didn’t tell him?!”

“Everything went down so quickly! I didn’t have time!”

“Ash and cinders. You do realize the last time you disappeared on him you were kidnapped by pirates and almost maimed to death!”

“I know. I know. I’ll contact him as soon as I can.” Zuko rubbed the back of his neck. “ And… um… sorry about your necklace.”

“It’s not your fault. I lost it on the earthbender prison ship last month.”

Before Zuko could explain, Aang’s yelling interrupted him. The young Avatar pointed at a man being attacked by a platypus bear. The man remained oddly calmed as he dodged the attacks. Zuko grabbed his swords and charged the bear. He got a couple of swipes in before the bear swatted him away by her tail then continued her attack on the man. The siblings yelled confusing directions as the man merely laughed.

“No need. It's going to be fine.” He beamed.

Zuko got up to charge again when Aang jumped in front of him.

“Wait maybe I can calm it down.” He held out his hands towards the bear. “Woah there. Hey friend.”

Zuko facepalmed. This was a dangerous animal! There was no reasoning with it! Zuko raised his swords again when Appa let out a mighty roar. The platypus bear let out a low whimpered as she popped an egg then scurried off. Sokka quickly scooped up the egg excited to eat it for lunch while the man boasted about Aunt Wu’s predictions. Zuko scoffed.

A fortuneteller? Great.

If she was anything like the ones Uncle dragged him to, they were in for a long day.

“I’ll love to meet her!” Katara beamed. “Sounds like fun.”

“Oh come on, fortunetelling is nonsense.” Sokka scoffed.

Zuko nodded. “Sounds like a scam.” He said in his false deep voice.

“Exactly. Wait you can talk?!”

Sokka scrunched up his face and eyed him carefully. Zuko growled.

“Yes I can talk!”

“Hmm… Well, since the mysterious ninja agrees it means we’ll be leaving now thank you.”

Katara rolled her eyes. “Aren’t you the least bit curious? Let’s take a fun detour for once.”

“Kyoshi Island was fun.” Aang chirped as he messed with the package the man left for them.

“Yeah, until ya Fire buddy burned it down.”

“Sokka!”

“I know. His childhood was pretty messed up and he lived with his psychotic dad who thinks children death matches are fun. Which again, is horrible. But that doesn’t excuse what he did.”

Zuko angrily marched passed him and muttered he was going to scout ahead.

Katara punched her brother on the arm.

“What was that for?!”

“Hey an umbrella!” Aang opened it just as it began to drizzle. “Guess Aunt Wu was right.”

“That’s great Aang. Let’s go.” She disappeared into the forest after their masked companion.

“What’s with them?” Aang asked confusedly.

~*~

Katara sat at the table with the others as Meng gushed over her fortunes. Zuko had seemed to vanished. She suddenly didn’t feel like getting her fortune read anymore. Aunt Wu soon called them into the back.

“I have a message for you four.”

“Four?” Sokka counted on his fingers. “There’s only three of- GAH!”

All of them jumped when they saw the masked figure perched on the window seal.

“Quiet down all of you.” Aunt Wu chided as she closed the door. “I’ve been instructed to teach you the words of passage.”

“By the spirits?” Aang perked up.

“No by the Order of the White Lotus.”

“You’re a flower spy!” Sokka pointed. “This fortune nonsense is all a front!”

“Yeah sure, yell that a little louder I don’t think the whole town heard you.” Aunt Wu sassed. Sokka glared at her.

“So, you’ve been lying to these people all this time?” Katara asked lowly. "These people trust your word and you're just messing with them."

“It’s more complicated than that.”

“I don’t see how.” Katara crossed her arms.

Aunt Wu sighed. “Now listen up. To determine a fellow member, place the white lotus tile on the center of a Pai Sho board say ‘I see you favor the white lotus gambit. Not many still cling to the ancient ways.’ Then say- “ she swatted Sokka’s notepad away. “No notes! You must commit this to memory!”

Sokka grumbled under his breath as Aunt Wu continued relaying the complex set of passcodes.

“Why are you telling us all of this?” Katara questioned.

“Orders. Also, because that's obviously the Avatar.”

Aang sheepishly rubbed his bald head. “Guilty as charged.”

“This world is dangerous. You will need allies for your journey. Now you all get out except for your theater mask friend.”

They cautiously glanced at Zuko who gave them the go ahead.

“You’ve worried your uncle to death.” Aunt Wu chided after they left.

“How did you- “

“Isn’t obvious?” she tsked and shook her head. “I will update your uncle but try to stay out of trouble.”

“No promises.”

Aunt Wu huffed. “Now, would you like to know your fortune?”

“I thought you said that was fake.”

“It’s still fun.”

“No thanks.”

Zuko stood and leapt out the window, ignoring Aunt Wu yelling at him to use the door.

~*~

“Well, that was a bust.” Katara bemoaned. “At least we got valuable information. Mind as well stock up before heading out.”

“I’m going to tell the villagers.”

“Sokka.”

“They deserve to know the truth! They gotta learn to think for themselves.” Sokka yelled as he disappeared around the corner.

Katara sighed. “Guess it’s just you and me Aang. Aang?”

“I’m going to ask Aunt Wu something. Don’t wait up!” he shouted as he sprinted back to the colorful building.

He desperately needed love advice. Maybe Aunt Wu knew something by the way Meng talked.

Katara sighed again. Why was she always left to do chores alone?

~*~

“Need a hand?”

Katara almost dropped the baskets as Zuko emerged from the shadows.

“Why do you keep disappearing like that?” she fussed before handing him the baskets. “But thanks.”

Zuko shrugged. “Old habit. And I don’t think the town people like me much.”

A little girl started crying and pointing at his mask before her mother carried her away. Then a passing guy threw salt on him.

“Be gone foul spirit!”

He ran off as Sokka chased him.

“That’s not a spirit! It’s just some guy in a mask!!!”

“See.” Zuko said deadpanned. Katara snorted.

“This place is kinda off. Earlier I saw a guy having a full conversation with a pole.” she agreed. “But don’t you dare tell Sokka I said that. I’ll never hear the end of it.”

They reached Appa where Aang was leaning against his leg in a strange position.

“Hey girl. You come here often?” He winked.

Katara and Zuko stared at him for a beat.

“What are you talking about?” she asked slowly.

“Your eyes are bluer than the oceans, and I don't mind being lost at sea.”

“…Thank you?”

This time Zuko snorted. Katara threw him a dirty side glance.

“Aang, can you put these in the saddle please?”

“Uh…sure…”

She handed him the baskets and deflated when he hopped on top of Appa not so subtly berating himself.

“So…” Zuko fidget awkwardly. “That happened.”

Katara groaned. Aang was a nice kid but that was it. He was a kid. Maybe if she ignored it long enough, the crush would fizzle out on its own.

“We just need to find Sokka before we leave.” Katara said as she and Zuko climbed onto the saddle. Aang mumbled something while he continued to pout in the corner.

“What was that?”

“Katara!”

She looked where Zuko was pointing and saw Sokka running full speed towards them with what looked like the whole town chasing him.

“What did you do?!” Katara yelled as she hauled him onto the rising bison.

“They hate me because I spoke the truth!” He pulled out a book. “I showed them Aunt Wu’s fortune book and revealed the lies!”

“Sokka!”

“Hey can I see that?” Zuko asked.

Sokka handed him the book. Zuko flipped through it before tossing it over his shoulder to the crowd below him.

“Hey! Actually, no that’s fair.”

Katara groaned for the millionth time that day. She patted Appa’s head.

“Let’s just get out of here before they tar and feather us.”

Chapter Text

Iroh scanned over the coded message one more time to make sure he was reading it correctly. The Red Peony stated his nephew was not only alive but also traveling with the Avatar. Iroh knew his nephew sneaked out to infiltrate Pohuai Stronghold but the worry only grew when he did not return. There was a sharp knock at the door. Iroh burned the letter and told them to come in.

“General Iroh, Commander Zhao requests your presence.”

“Very well. Send him in.”

The solider disappeared and Zhao strolled in moments later with an arrogant smile.

“Commander Zhao. To what do I owe this visit?”

“I believe a congratulations are in order, general. The Fire Lord has granted my request on invading the North.”

“Oh? Although it is so close to winter? It will be difficult to navigate the icy waters and winter is when the waterbenders are at their strongest.”

“Which is why we must attack immediately. You are very knowledgeable of these savages with your experience from the failed Assimilation Experiment and your strategy skills are unmatched. I require your guidance, general.”

Iroh frowned but he kept his tone pleasant.

“Always so direct, Commander.”

“I have orders from the Fire Lord.” Zhao smirked. “Where is that dear nephew of yours? I am sure he would love to accompany the conquest.”

“Prince Zuko has fallen ill. I’m afraid he would not be able to make it.”

Zhao tsked. “Such a shame. The young ones always burn out so quickly. I suppose you are well experienced with such things.”

Iroh’s eyes harden.

“Be prepare to board my ship by dawn tomorrow.” He bowed before letting himself out. “I have some other matters to deal with.”

~*~

Katara was overjoyed. She thought she would never see her honorary uncle again even after she returned to the Southern Water Tribe. Yet here he was. Alive and holding her and her brother close. It was a tearful reunion to say the least. Katara had never seen so much emotion from the usually reserved man.

After they finally pulled apart, Bato invited them to his camp at the abbey where he was being healed. The warm familiar atmosphere made Katara realize how homesick she had become over the past few months of traveling. The small family talked for hours in, sharing their adventures and recounting old stories.

“Katara.” Bato’s eyes sparkled. “I just can’t believe it. Your father is going to be over the moon when he hears this.”

“I miss him.”

“Yeah. Me too.” Sokka agreed. “It’s been over two years since he left.”

“There's something I should tell you kids. I'm expecting a message from your father any day now about a rendezvous point. If you wait here until the message arrives you can come with me and see your father again.”

The siblings perked up with excitement. They were finally going to see Dad after all these years!

Out of the corner of her eye, Katara saw Aang slip out the tent but didn’t think much about it.

“As much as I would love to see Dad again, I think just you should go.” Sokka looked at her. “I have to help Aang get to the North Pole. I can’t just leave him.”

“Neither can I. We made a promise after all. I’m coming too.”

“But you haven’t seen Dad in almost a decade!”

“I know.” Katara blinked away the tears as images of Hakoda chasing after her and the Fire Nation solider flashed in her mind. “But we have to help Aang. We will see Dad later.”

Sokka’s eyes grew solemn. “Alright.”

“I'm sure your father would understand and be proud that his children are helping the Avatar.” Bato said encouragingly.

~*~

“No more nuts, Momo.” Zuko rubbed the sky lemur’s head as it let out a pitiful whine. Zuko sighed. “Fine. But you’re going on a diet after this.”

Momo greedily ate the food and purred happily. Zuko sighed again as he gazed at the sea from his perched spot in a tree. He slipped away as soon as the Water Tribesman made an appearance, unsure what the stranger would think of the banished Fire Prince dressed in a theater mask. Turns out it was one of Katara’s and Sokka’s family member. Zuko was glad for them. What an amazing feeling it must be to reunite with a lost loved one. He tried not to let his mind wonder too much on the notion but it was nearly impossible.

Below, he saw Aang talking to someone on an eel lizard. Zuko quietly climbed down and crept closer to investigate. The person rode off as Aang jumped and whirled his staff around.

“Oh, it’s just you, Blue.” He said shakily. “I wasn’t doing anything!”

Zuko crossed his arms.

“What?”

He pointed at the letter. Aang held it behind his back insisting it was nothing. As he tried to walk by, Zuko snatched the letter and scanned it over. It told the location of the Southern Water Tribe army’s rendezvous point.

“Give that back!”

Aang grabbed the letter, balled it up, then stuffed it into his pocket.

“Why would you hide this? They have not seen their family in years.”

“I know. I just…” Aang bowed his head in shame. “I don’t want them to leave me.”

Zuko’s shoulders shagged. He knew the bitter feeling of being abandoned all too well.

“They won’t.”

“You don’t know that.”

“Yes, I do.”

“No, you don’t! You don’t know anything! All you do is keep secrets and go and come as you please. You don’t even take off that stupid mask! How am I suppose to trust you when you clearly don’t trust me Zuko?!”

Zuko involuntarily flinched at his name. Aang narrowed his eyes.

“I heard you and Katara whispering. I understand Fire Tongue you know.”

“Avatar- “

“It’s Aang! It’s been Aang this whole time! Sokka was right. You’re just a spy! Well guess what? I’m done with secrets and I’m done being left out like I’m just some little kid who wouldn’t understand!”

There was a faint panting sound coming from the tree line. Zuko leaned his right side forward to hear better. Something was out there.

“Avatar, quiet!” he hissed.

“What did I just say?!

The panting became louder. A faint glint of light caught Zuko’s attention. He tackled Aang into the bushes a huge beast stomped by with two people riding on top followed by a small army on Komodo rhinos.

“Zhao.” Zuko hissed.

“What is he doing here?!” Aang glared at Zuko. “Did you lead him here?”

“What do you think air-head?! Why in ash and cinders would I do that?!”

“No need to be pushy.”

The beast sniffed around for a bit before setting off towards the abbey.

“Katara! Sokka! We gotta stop them!”

Zuko grabbed the back of Aang’s shirt as the airbender tried to attack.

“Wait! They can’t know you’re here!”

“Well, what do you suggest?!”

Zuko stared at the Blue Spirit mask laying nearby.

“I have an idea.”

Chapter Text

Sokka’s instincts were screaming. He stuck boomerang into the ground and listened.

“What is it Sokka?” Bato asked earnestly. He’d seen the same expression on Hakoda many times right before something bad happened.

“Something’s coming.”

Katara grabbed her water pouch.

“Stay here Bato. We’ll check it out.”

“Wolf spirits’ strength and protection, warriors.”

The siblings repeated the prayer then headed out. It was hard to see in the cloudy night. Just head, Momo flew towards them screeching.

“What’s wrong Momo?” Katara held up her arm for the sky lemur to land. “Where’s Aang?”

“He came from the forest.” Sokka pointed to the tree line. “I bet Aang’s there!”

"Go wait with Appa. We'll be right back." Katara told Momo.

They raced to the forest’s edge weapons drawn and on guard. A large beast burst out and launched its long tongue towards Katara. Sokka tackled her out of the way.

“That’s the 'girlfriend' who ran off?” the dark haired woman snapped at the Fire Nation solider behind her. “What are you some sort of creep?!”

“It’s not the savage I’m after! It’s the boy!” he snarled at the siblings below him. “Where is he?!”

“Boy? Ugh you are a creep!” the woman kicked him off the beast. “I have limits pal. Keep the rest of your money! The deal’s off!”

The soldier growled as he shot a stream of fire at the bounty hunter who effortlessly dodged it with a back bend.

Katara froze the man to the ground and Sokka aimed his club at him.

“Stay down!”

“Soldiers, burn the abbey! That’ll draw him out!!!”

Fire Nation soldiers riding Komodo rhinos charged past them on all directions. Katara knocked some of them off with her bending but there were still too many.

“Hey lady! Help us stop the Fire Nation soldiers and we’ll pay you double!” Sokka shouted.

“I doubt that Ponytail.” She sassed but held out her hand anyway. “Lucky for you revenge pays just as well.

The siblings climbed onto the creature and chased after the soldiers.

Zhao snarled as he melted the ice. “Ungrateful peasant!!!”

“ZHAO!!!”

The commander broke free and let out a sick smirk.

“Prince Zuko. I see you recovered quickly.”

“Stand down.” He summoned his fire daggers.

Zhao barked out a harsh laugh. “I know you’re the Blue Spirit. You’re both a traitor and a coward!”

“Think again.” Zuko’s eyes shifted passed him.

Zhao glanced behind and saw a figure standing behind him with the theater mask on.

“Siding with a traitor is still treason. You’re under arrest, Your Highness.”

“Gotta catch me first.”

Zhao let out a mighty battle cry as he shot fire towards Zuko who successfully blocked it and returned his own. Zhao prepared to strike again when he was swept off his feet. Growling, he leapt up and attacked the Blue Spirit who gracefully dodged his every move. Zuko aided his companion, landing hits as the Blue Spirit kept Zhao off balance. Soon, Zhao fell and Zuko held his left hand against his back and pinned him down.

“Go help the others!”

The Blue Spirit nodded then flew off. Zuko kept Zhao’s head down so he didn’t see the glider.

“You disgraceful rat-snake.” He hissed. “No wonder your father disowned you!”

“Silence! It’s over!”

Zuko noticed Katara’s necklace hanging on his belt and leaned over. Zhao elbowed him in the face just as Zuko grabbed the necklace. He then shot up a bright flare. Zuko wiped the blood from his nose and punched Zhao in the face.

“I told you to stand down!”

Zhao merely laughed.

“What’s so funny bastard?!”

“Look around, traitor.”

Zuko glanced up and saw more Komodo rhino riders emerge from the forest, each with flaming fist aimed towards him.

“You’re under arrest for treason and assault of a commanding officer.” Zhao said smugly. “Unless you prefer the ship I signaled to reduce the little abbey to cinders.”

Zuko swore as he got off the commander. “You won’t get away with this!”

“I just did.” Zhao smirked.

~*~

The Komodo rhinos were fast but not fast enough.

Thanks to Hama’s scroll and much practice, Katara’s ice daggers were sharper and more precise than ever. She took right while Sokka handled the left with his boomerang.

“Not bad for some kids.” The bounty hunter chuckled as the last solider fell. She pulled out a card and handed it to Katara. “Look me up when you want to do this again or when some creep’s bothering ya. For a price of course.”

“It just says June.”

“Yep.” she winked before riding off.

“Should had asked if she was a flower spy.” Sokka muttered.

“I highly doubt she- “Katara trailed off when she saw a figure gliding above them. “Aang! Wait why are you wearing that?”

“Zuko and I traded places to fool Zhao. I mean er… Blue and I- “

Sokka waved off. “Save it. I been knew. His fake voice was terrible. It was just his regular voice but slightly deeper.”

“What?! Why didn’t you say something?” Katara demanded.

“I wanted to see how long he’d keep it up.” Sokka shrugged. “Where is the angry jerk anyway?”

“I left him with Zhao.”

“You WHAT?!”

“Come on!” Katara climbed onto a Komodo rhino that wasn’t paralyzed. “We gotta help him!”

The trio bolted to the tree line. The only thing they found there were tracks leading to the bay not far from the abbey. Katara pushed the Komodo rhino as fast as it could go. They made it just in time to see the Fire Nation soldiers load Zuko onboard a small cruiser.

“ZUKO!” Katara cried out.

His eyes widened when he saw them. What were they doing?! Coming back for him was insane! Before Zuko could tell them to turn back, Zhao waved his arm. The Firebenders shot long range fireballs at the abbey.

“How could you?! Those people would die!” Zuko fought against his chains.

The trio stared in horror as the abbey erupted into flames.

“LEAVE ME!” Zuko shouted “GO HELP THEM!”

Sokka grabbed the reigns. “He’s right! We have to go back!”

Katara’s heart dropped. This couldn’t be happening!

“I can fly ahead and bust him out!” Aang suggested.

“No, it’ll blow your cover!” Katara looked at the disappearing boat one last time before stirring the beast back towards the abbey. “We have to help these people first!”

She knew this was the right thing to do but she couldn’t shake the crushing feeling of abandoning Zuko again.

There was no other choice.

Chapter Text

“We’re almost to the North Pole!” Aang shouted from Appa’s reins.

“Great!” Katara forced out a smiled.

She was exhausted from traveling and worrying. Zuko was still missing and Sokka’s flower spy letters had gone unanswered.

They were on their own.

“I don’t get it.” Sokka thought out loud as he petted Momo's head. “I used the codes Aunt Wu provided. Why won’t the others write me back?”

“Probably because you keep signing it Cauliflower.” Aang snorted. “Cauliflower isn’t a flower.”

“It has flower in the name!”

“Don’t make it a flower.”

“Ugh! I give up.”

Sokka glanced at his sister gazing at the open sea.

“We’ll find him, Katara.”

“I know.” She traced the outline of the Blue Spirt mask. “It’s just-”

She was cut off by icebergs suddenly flying towards them. Appa turned sharply to avoid them almost knocking the teenagers off. Warriors on wooden boats came from behind the icebergs and surrounded them.

“Waterbenders!” Katara gasped. “We made it!”

“Stop intruders! State your business here!”

“We’re water tribe!” Sokka raised his hands in surrender.

Aang gave them a crooked smile. “And I’m the Avatar!”

“We mean no harm! We’ve traveled here to learn waterbending!” Katara shouted.

The warriors looked at each other and lowered their weapons. They beckoned the small group to follow them. Soon a great ice wall loomed over the horizon.

“There it is!” Aang pointed.

Beautiful wasn’t the word to describe the frozen city. Decorated ice walls, pillars, and bridges were everywhere. Waterbenders bended freely, moving the gushing waterfalls and streams at will to create flowing art. Katara wanted to cry. She had never seen so many waterbenders before, alive and free in their element. She found herself wishing Zuko could see it too. The Northern Water Tribe was far from crude images depicted in the Fire Nation scrolls.

Aang waved at the gawking people like he was in a parade. “Hey this place is great!” he laughed.

“It’s beautiful.” Katara whispered.

Sokka stared in awe at a stunning white haired girl on a bridge. She blushed slightly and smiled at him.

“Yeah, she is…”

~*~

“I hope the journey was up to your standards, Prince Zuko.” Zhao jeered as he opened the cramp cell door.

“Eat ash Zhao!”

“Already speaking like an unwashed peasant. It fits you though. No crown. No throne. No comrades. The North as well as the Avatar will all be mine.”

“You’ll never win! You had him once and he escaped!”

“And whose fault is that?!” Zhao growled. “Where you failed, I will succeed!”

“I found the Avatar first, didn’t I?!”

“And you couldn’t even get him to a commanding officer to verify.”

“What are you talking about?! The mission was to bring him back to the Fire Nation!”

Zhao barked out a harsh laughter.

“How were you supposed to do that when you are forbidden from stepping foot on Fire Nation soil? Did you even read the conditions of your own banishment?!”

“I just thought- “Zuko flushed.

“You are as pathetic as foolish.” Zhao called forth his soldiers. “Transport him to the 13th division fleet bound for the Fire Nation. I have a kingdom to conquer.”

Two soldiers grabbed Zuko and dragged him off the boat and passed the rows and rows of warships. Zuko struggled with all his might to break free. Going back to the Fire Nation now was a death sentence.

“Hold still you little- “

The soldier grew slack and collapsed. Zuko elbowed the other soldier and broke free from his grasp. The soldier summoned a fiery fist before a dart hit his exposed face causing him to collapsed as well. Zuko stole the keys off him and unlocked his chains.

“Who are you?!” He looked around frantically. It was dark out making it nearly impossible to see. Zuko lit a weak fire, dulled from the bending suppressants he was forced to take onboard. Just ahead, he made out a slim figure in a dark cloak.

“Katara?”

The figure took off at the sound of his voice.

“Wait!”

Zuko chased after them but the person had vanished. Now what?!

Disappointed, he returned to the unconscious soldiers and saw a note where the person was standing when he first saw them.

The Dragon of the West resides on the head vessel in 1st fleet. Remember who you are.

- Moonflower

Zuko did not recognize the name but the writing was painfully familiar. Where had he seen it before? Zuko burned the letter. He didn’t have time to ponder distant memories. He stole one of the soldier’s armor then looked back towards the direction the mysterious figure disappeared.

Whoever they were, Zuko owed them his life.

~*~

There was a great party honoring the trio’s arrival as well as Princess Yue’s 18th birthday. Katara and Aang marveled at the waterbending performance as Sokka stuffed his face with food. He quickly straightened up when Princess Yue struck up a conversation with him. Katara teased her brother for his lame attempts at courting earning angry glares from him and giggles from the princess.

“Hey I didn’t interfere when you and Zuko were making moon eyes at each other so lay off!” he whispered shouted.

“We were not making- “

Yue gasped. “You’re still courting Katara? And he has not proposed yet?”

“We’re just friends! Besides, I’m too young to get married.”

“Oh, my apologizes. The marrying age for women here is 16.”

Katara made a shocked expression. “That’s so young!”

“Thank you for your commentary Katara.” Sokka scooted her chair away. “How about you go make sure Aang doesn’t get his tongue stuck on an icicle again.”

Katara made a face at him which Sokka returned before turning back to the princess.

“So, it looks like I'm gonna be in town for a while. I'm thinking maybe we could... do an activity together?”

“Do an “activity”?” Yue smiled sweetly.

“Yeah um… like… you know…”

Yue giggled as Katara rolled her eyes.

“Yue there you are!” an older boy marched up and throw his arms around her shoulders. The siblings frowned noticing how Yue stiffened and looked away. “You’re supposed to be sitting with me at the head table! Not talking to these peasants.”

“Get your hands off her!” Sokka glared at him. “Who do you think you are?”

The boy scoffed.

“Since you backwater tent dwellers are new here, I’ll let you off easy. The name’s Hahn, future Chief of the Northern Water Tribe and Princess Yue’s fiancé.” he smirked. “So, it’s my right to put my hands where I want.”

He kissed Yue roughly.

Sokka stood up with clenched fists as Katara formed ice daggers under the table.

“I-It’s fine Sokka.” Yue said quickly as soon as they broke apart. “I’m sorry for keeping you waiting Hahn.”

“You better be.”

Hahn grabbed hand and dragged her away. Sokka started to follow them when Katara stopped him.

“Not here.” She whispered and watched the couple’s retreating form as deep anger grew inside.

Sokka took a deep breath and sat back down.

“She’s a princess. She shouldn’t be…”

“I know.”

This wasn’t right.

~*~

“Our plan is working perfectly.” Iroh beamed. “Zhao doesn't suspect a thing.”

Zuko removed his guard mask. “You didn't have to do this. Especially after I made you worry for so long.”

Iroh smiled gently as he gave Zuko an encouragingly pat on the back. “I am just grateful you are alright. No nephew of mine is going to stow away on a ship without some backup!”

“Thank you, Uncle.” Despite himself, Zuko let out a small smile before remembering the mysterious note. “Do you know someone called Moonflower?”

“Like the poisonous flower? What an odd name. Quite lovely though.”

Zuko mentally swore knowing Iroh was dodging the question. The mystery would have to wait. He still had questions and time was running out.

“We'll get back to that. One more thing. About the terms of my banishment- “

“Someone's coming!” Iroh ushered Zuko into a separate room and put his mask back on. “Stay hidden until we get to the North Pole and the Avatar will be yours! Good luck!”

Zuko swallowed hard as he tried to look as casual as possible. His time spent with Team Avatar was confusing and the conversation with Katara on the pirate ship still haunted him. But if he did this one thing and if Zhao was telling the truth, Zuko could restore his honor and not actually bring Aang all the way to the Fire Nation. He just had to show a high ranking officer that he captured the Avatar. Zuko rubbed the blue necklace between his fingers as he thought about the plan.

Maybe there was another option after all.

Chapter Text

Katara was furious.

Master Pakku refused to teach her just because she was a girl. He then kicked Aang out of his class for teaching her at night. Katara felt the water particles in the air began to crystalize like they did so many years ago. How could someone be so selfish?! They were at war for crying out loud! They needed all the help they could get!

“What do you want me to do? Force Master Pakku to take Aang back as his student?” Chief Arnook asked in genuine confusion.

“Yes. I do.” Katara said slowly and carefully.

“I suspect he might change his mind if you swallow your pride and apologize to him.”

Katara glanced at Aang. He nodded slightly. Burning rage rose deep within but Katara swallowed it. She’s been in this position before and knew how to play the game. They’ve come too far to be turned back because she couldn’t control her emotions.

“Fine.”

Master Pakku smirked. “I'm waiting, little girl.”

That’s it.

“No! No way am I apologizing to a sour old man like you!!!”

The ice cracked under her and the liquid water froze. This time Katara didn’t try to stop it.

“Uh, Katara…” Aang warned.

“I’m NOT suppressing my bending anymore just to stroke your BLOATED EGO!!!! I’m done hiding! I AM KATARA OF THE SOUTHERN WATER TRIBE AND I WILL MASTER WATERBENDING WHETER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT!”

Water jars exploded and ice cracks spread across the room. Katara let the storm rage on.

“I'll be outside – IF YOU’RE MAN ENOUGH TO FIGHT ME!!!”

With a flick of her wrists, the doors flew open. She slammed them shut with a large thud that echoed loudly in the stunned meeting hall.

Let him come.

She’ll destroy him and anyone else who stood in her way.

Enough was enough.

~*~

The fight was close.

Katara sparred with reckless abandon. No holding back. No suppressing.

“Well, I'm impressed.” Master Pakku popped his shoulder back in place. “You are an excellent waterbender.”

He had never seen anyone blend waterbending and traditional combat. The girl threw ice daggers like knives and soared through the sky like an acrobat. Master Pakku truly was in awe. It was a true shame such raw talent was thrusted on her. If only she was a boy.

“But you still won't teach me, will you?”

“No.” He staggered past the third cluster of ice spears he entrapped her in. She shattered the other two. “This fight is over.”

“Come back here! I'm not finished yet!”

“Yes, you are.”

He melted the ice spears causing Katara to collapse onto the snow.

“No. I’m not.” She breathed heavily. “I will master waterbending. I will. DO YOU HEAR ME PAKKU?! YOU WILL KNOW MY NAME!”

She then passed out from seer exhaustion.

~*~

Katara felt tired and sore all over when she finally woke up. As her vision cleared, she saw someone sitting on her bed beside her. Their presence radiated grace.

“…Princess Ursa?”

“Katara it’s me. Yue.”

Katara sat up, shaking her head from the dejavu moment.

“That was incredibly brave.”

“There’s no way Pakku or Aang will teach me now.” Katara gripped the blanket’s edge. “But I don’t regret it.”

Yue was quiet for a moment before speaking again.

“I will help you master waterbending.”

Katara looked at her in surprise. “How?”

Yue streamed out some water and hovered it over her hand before it glowed white. Katara gasped.

“You are not the only one forced to hide their bending.”

“How did you make it glow so brightly?”

“It is the Moon Spirit. She gave me life when I was an infant and now a part of her resides in me.” Yue laid a hand over her heart. “The legends say the moon was the first waterbender. Our ancestors saw how it pushed and pulled the tides and learned how to do it themselves.”

“I've always noticed my waterbending is stronger at night.”

“Our strength comes from the Spirit of the Moon, our life comes from the Spirit of the Ocean. They work together to keep balance.”

“But why hide such a gift? You’re connected to the Moon Spirit. Your waterbending must be incredible!”

Yue looked down. “Father was worried how the tribe would react. There were already protests about using the Spirit Oasis to heal a girl when my parents could had tried again for a boy instead. A spirit touched waterbending girl would have caused an uproar.”

“Yue…”

“Which is why I was so moved when you stood up to Master Pakku. I cannot teach you fighting or healing but I can teach you how to connect to the spirits. They will strengthen your bending.”

Katara’s eyes soften. “You’re really brave Yue. Thank you.”

Yue smiled. “Thank you Katara.”

~*~

As soon as Katara was rested, a new routine was formed. She went to healing class during the day and trained with Yue in her room at night under the guise of being the princess’s new favorite companion. Every now and then, she’d help Yue sneak out her room to meet up with Sokka after his warrior training.

“Your brother is very kind.” Yue said during one of their sessions. “He carved me this polar bear dog.”

Katara fought the urge to roll her eyes but smiled regardless. “He really likes you.”

Yue clutched her betrothal necklace and dropped her gaze.

“Hahn’s a jerk.” Katara said bluntly remembering how he treated the princess when they first arrived. “He doesn’t deserve you.”

“His father and mine were friends. My father promised to look after Hahn before he died.” Yue ripped off the necklace. “I wished he did not.”

“Come with us. We can hide you in the luggage.”

Yue was silent for a moment. “I cannot. My duty is to my people.”

Katara sighed. “I understand. If you ever change your mind…”

Yue pulled her into a hug.

“You are a good friend.”

Katara hugged her back while blinking back tears. Yue reminded her so much of Princess Ursa’s kind and gentle nature towards her. Katara desperately did not want Yue to meet the same fate as the Fire Princess.

It might already be too late.

~*~

As the winter drew on, Katara’s bending grew stronger as Yue promised. She was able to connect to the Moon Spirit like never before. The Ocean Spirit was a bit more stubborn though. Yue joked saying the Ocean Spirit was masculine thus more hardheaded.

Katara continued to attend healing class as instructed. At first it was to throw off Pakku but she learned a lot and bonded with the women there. She even taught them Kysohi Warrior defense moves in between sessions which quickly became popular.

For fighting practice, Katara sat in on Pakku classes when she could and committed the moves to memory. Pakku said nothing, only giving her side glances from time to time. Some of his braver students made their opinions known and challenged Katara to duels, sometimes ganging up on her outside the area.

They provided excellent practice.

Katara made many foes that winter. As well as admirers. One boy even presented a betrothal necklace after she froze him upside down to a pillar during a fight. Katara turned him down.

She stayed up that night wondering why she imagined golden eyes presenting the necklace to her instead of blue.

~*~

Black snow.

Katara’s heart dropped. It was happening again.

The Fire Nation was invading.

Her first stop was the healing huts to make sure the women sheltering there were armed. After they reassured her, Katara made her way to citadel where Chief Arnook prepared his soldiers. Sokka volunteered to fight and received the warrior’s mark. His eyes met hers and Katara immediately understood. She gave him a firm nod of approval.

She just wished she could stand beside her brother like the last time they faced the Fire Nation but that was impossible in the Northern Water Tribe.

Katara grabbed extra water pouches and bolted out the doors.

Maybe there was another way she could help.

~*~

“Do you have a plan, nephew?”

Zuko nodded. For once he did.

Iroh did not look convince but he adjusted Zuko’s winter garb regardless while relaying ancient proverbs to him.

“I don't need your wisdom right now, Uncle.” He needed to stay focus. For the plan to work, he had to show Aang to multiple commanders at once without letting either of them get capture.

“I'm sorry, I just nag you because, well, ever since I lost my son...”

Zuko looked away saying Iroh didn’t have to finish his sentence. He already knew.

“I think of you as my own.” Iroh said emotionally.

Zuko squeezed his eyes shut as his heart lurched. He took a deep breath to calm down then looked at the old general.

“I know, Uncle.” He bowed deeply. “We will meet again. I promise.”

Iroh pulled him into a tight hug.

Zuko pulled away then lowered the canoe into the water while reassuring his uncle that he’ll be fine. Zuko steered the small boat through the cold icy mist. The frozen city, though magnificent, had already taken damage from the fire bombs. Zuko shivered and pulled his garb closer around him wishing he did bring earmuffs.

“There has to be a way…” he muttered as his boat beached on the ice foundation below the wall.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw several turtle seals disappearing into a hole nearby. Turtle seals were mammals which meant they needed air eventually. Zuko tightened the necklace around his wrist before taking a deep breath and plunging in.

~*~

“I can’t do it!” Aang crouched down and held his head. “I must have taken down at least 100 warships but I can’t get anywhere close to that giant fire cannon!”

Katara peaked over the damaged ice wall. The Fire Nation had a new prototype cannon that intensified fire blasts into a single shot like a hundred firebenders were attacking at once. It took a while to recharge but once it did, the damage was horrifying. The main ice wall was almost completely destroyed.

“Maybe the spirits can help.” Yue suggested. “They can give you wisdom on how to handle this.”

“Or a giant monster to take out the cannon!”

“That works too.” Katara added.

“But it’ll take forever for me to connect to the Spirit World. We don’t have that kind of time!”

“I know something that could help.”

Katara and Aang quickly and silently followed Yue to the courtyard behind the citadel and through large wooden doors. She said it was the most spiritual place in the tribe. The closer they got, the more Katara felt a tug deep inside her. She knew it was where the Moon and Ocean Spirits resided before Yue confirmed it. Inside was a massive garden with a pool in the center fed by a waterfall flowing from a glacier. It was unusually warm and the air felt alive.

Aang got into a mediation pose. Fire balls shot overhead as the Fire Nation soldiers bridged the city.

“Aang…” Katara said warily.

“I’m trying!”

“I have an idea.” Yue sat down in front of him and bended some water around her hands. Aang’s eyes widen as it glowed white. “Close your eyes.”

Yue placed one hand on his forehead and the other over his heart. Aang’s tattoos started glowing. It was working!

“Katara!”

She turned and saw a figure in gray winter garbs standing at the entrance then gasped.

“Zuko! You made it!”

She ran up and threw her arms around him.

He laughed breathlessly and hugged her back. “Just barely.”

Katara pulled back and gently held his bruised face. “Are you okay? You had us worried sick!”

“Yeah I’m…” he trailed off when he saw Aang and Yue over her shoulder.

“I’m glad you’re here. I could use your help protecting Princess Yue and Aang as he journeys to the Spirit World.” Katara dragged him inside.

“Katara- “

“Can you guard the front entrance? I’ll make sure no one drops down from the waterfall.”

“Katara.”

“Hmm?”

Zuko’s hands twitched as he fought the urge to wring them. His eyes shifted towards the mediating monk and swallowed.

“I… I need to borrow Aang.”

Chapter Text

“What do you mean you need to ‘borrow’ Aang?” Katara asked slowly.

Zuko took a deep breath. “If I showed the commanding officers the Avatar in my possession, the banishment would be lifted even without having to take him all the way to the Fire Nation.”

Katara stared at him speechless.

“It’ll only take a moment.”

“No.”

“No?”

“No!” Katara shook her head in disbelief. “Zuko do you even hear yourself! That plan is ridiculous. It’ll never work.”

“You don’t know that! If I could just- “

“No Zuko. What if they still took Aang? Then what?”

“I’ll bring him back!”

Katara glared at him.

“Well since you’re so doubtful then help me!”

“No. I’m not doing that. Aang’s body needs to be here so his spirit doesn’t get trap in between realms.”

“Katara, this is the best option! No one gets hurt and I can still restore my honor. Everybody wins.”

“This isn’t a good idea. I won’t help you.”

Zuko balled his fist up. “Even after I stuck out my neck to helped you return home, you won’t do the same?! I thought you of all people would understand!” he marched passed her. “I’m taking the Avatar whether you like it or not!”

A water whip hit the back of his neck. “Don’t touch him!!!”

Zuko turned back and launched a fiery attack. Katara blocked it and sent ice disks his way. The two engaged in a fierce battle fueled by anger and betrayal. It was the first time neither held back on each other. Katara summoned a large wave and shot Zuko out of the garden. He used his fire jets to ground himself then jumped right as Katara shot a round of ice daggers towards him.

“How could you? After everything we’ve been through!” she cried. “I trusted you!!!”

“I reached out to you but you refused!” He shot a wave of fire which Katara blocked with an ice wall. “Would you rather I take the Avatar by force?!”

“That’s what you’re doing now! This has to stop!”

“Then help me end it!!!”

The ground shook as the Fire Nation cannon went off. Katara dived into a canal while Zuko formed a fire shield around himself. Even under the icy water at night, Katara could see the beam’s bright light shining overhead. When it finally stopped, Katara used the water to propel herself up. The area was almost completely demolished into a flat plateau. Her heart rate raced.

“Zuko?!”

Where was he?! Was the beam too powerful for his fire shield?

Could he be...

A fire blast came from her left. Katara quickly jumped out of the way and coated her arms with water. Zuko emerged from the smoke with charred clothes and burn marks on his exposed skin. Katara was both relieved that he was alive and upset that he was still carrying out this pointless attack. His face twisted in anger as he attacked again.

“I need to restore my honor!”

“Capturing Aang won’t help you!” Katara cried as she launched a water tentacle at him. Zuko severed the tentacle with a stream of fire.

“LIAR!”

The fight became fiercer and more uncontrol.

“You’re betraying your friends for what?! A half baked promise?!?!” Katara gritted her teeth as tears stung her eyes. “Ozai doesn’t love you!” she blurted out.

“DON’T YOU THINK I KNOW THAT ALREADY?!”

Zuko stopped attacking and looked away. His entire body shook not just from the cold and wounds.

“Don’t you think I know that?” he repeated quietly. “If I complete this mission… then maybe he’ll…”

Katara lowered her ice daggers. Her anger and hurt from the betrayal did not lessen but deep down she still cared for the misguided boy.

“That’s not how love works Zuko. It’s given not earned.”

Zuko tightened his fists as he fought tears.

“Your mother loved you.” She took a step forward. “Your Uncle loves you. I lo- “

Katara was suddenly overcome dizziness as her legs gave out.

“Katara!” Zuko caught her before she hit the ground.

She groaned in pain. “The Moon Spirit…” Katara looked at him with wild frantic eyes. “What have you done?!”

Zuko glanced up and saw the moon fade out of existence draining the world of its color.

What the…

He returned his attention to Katara who was locked in some sort of trance as she gapped at the sky.

“Katara?! Wake up!! Katara!!!”

He began to panic. This wasn’t the plan! Not knowing what else to do, he hoisted Katara onto his back and ran towards the garden. Maybe Aang and the others could help. Zuko passed several other Water Tribe warriors staring at the moonless sky in the same trance.

What was going on?!

Before Zuko reached the garden, huge fish like creature emerged from the sky opening with the Avatar in the center. Its bright blue glow was a frightening contrast to the grayed out world.

Zuko ducked behind some debris as it passed by. The Spirit bended the water and shot it directly at the Fire Nation cannon, sending it and everyone onboard to a watery grave. It then made work of any remaining Fire Nation soldiers that were unlucky enough to be in its path. The terrified screams of his countrymen ranged through the night. Zuko swallowed the lump in his throat. He made a break to the garden but the entrance was blocked off by debris and ice. Zuko tried melting it to no avail. His fire was gray like everything else in this nightmare and almost cold to the touch. Without the moon, he couldn’t bend as well. Long awaited tears finally slipped down his cheeks.

This was all his fault.

If he just helped Katara protect Aang then the Moon Spirit wouldn’t had been attack sending the Ocean Spirit into a vengeful rampage. And Katara wouldn’t be locked in this suspended state. Zuko screamed in frustration.

Why must he always mess things up and hurt his loved ones?

He gently laid Katara on the snow. She was a waterbender. The Ocean Spirit won’t attack her as long as she wasn’t close to him. Zuko laid her necklace beside her then cupped her hand, remembering how he held her after Ozai burned them. The other memories of their childhood flooded him at once. He didn’t want to leave her. Without thinking, Zuko planted a kiss on her scarred bare hand. She didn’t respond or even look at him. Her eyes never left the gray sky.

“I’m sorry Katara…for everything.”

Zuko ran.

He had to make it to the base of the ice wall where he left his boat. The Ocean Spirt rampaged nearby as Fire Nation tanks fired blasts at it with no effect. The Spirit merely washed them away, drowning hundreds more.

The Ocean Spirit then slinked into the canals as Zuko crossed an ice bridge where he ran into Zhao.

“What are you doing here?!” Zhao growled.

“What did you do?!” Zuko gestured to the moonless sky. “You’ve gone too far!!!”

Zhao smirked. “I’ve won this war. I did the impossible. I SLAYED THE MOON SPIRIT!!!”

The Ocean Spirit shot upward and loomed over Zhao.

“ZHAO RUN!”

Zuko’s cries went unheard. Zhao stood there paralyzed with fear as the Ocean Spirit crashed over him completely destroying the ice bridge. Zuko barely made it to the other side in time before the bridge crumpled into the sea. Color returned to the world as a large silver moon reclaimed her place in the sky.

The Ocean Spirit rose from the canal and stared at the new Moon Spirit, its heart aching for its ancient lover. Zuko stared in awe, too exhausted to run any further. The Ocean Spirit turned and looked down at him. Zuko had never felt so small and insignificant in his entire life. His knees buckled as he collapsed. Zuko bowed his head expecting the worst. Instead, the Ocean Spirit deposited an unconscious airbender onto the snow bank then disappeared into the canal.

It… showed Zuko mercy?

The Avatar let out a low moan beside him.

“Aang?”

Zuko checked his pulse. He was barely breathing but alive.

The first rays of dawn broke over the horizon, illuminating the extensive damage. Zuko slowly exhaled. Sunrise had never been more welcomed.

“Nephew!”

The old general ran up and helped him up saying they needed to leave before the Water army arrest them. Zuko looked into his eyes and saw a deep weariness. One he had not seen since Uncle returned to the palace after abandoning the Siege on Ba Singe Se so long ago.

Zuko glanced at the stirring Avatar then sighed. There was no point anymore. There never was.

“Let’s go Uncle.”

~*~

The trio prepared to leave the North in silence, each lost in their own grief. Though this was the first major victory against the Fire Nation in years, no one was celebrating. The city was in ruins and the beloved princess was gone.

Chief Arnook handed Sokka a vial of Spirit Oasis as a thank you for looking after his daughter. Sokka immediately gave it to Katara without a word. His eyes flickered up to the necklace.

“You found it…”

Katara gingerly placed a finger on the stone.

“Zuko.”

“He was here?”

She couldn’t remember anything that happened during the horrifying moments when the Moon Spirit ceased to exist. When Katara came to, the necklace was there but Zuko was gone.

“Not anymore.”

Sokka didn’t press any further noticing the deep sadness and anger in her eyes. He took her bag and threw it on Appa’s saddle.

“If we leave now, we should reach Omashu by early spring.”

Katara nodded numbly. She turned to get the remaining things before seeing Master Pakku staring at them.

“What do you want?”

“Calm down girl. I’m just checking on my lazy pupil, though I suppose he finally has an actual excuse for sleeping in.” Pakku looked at Aang in a restless sleep on the saddle.

“As you can see, he’s fine.” Katara said shortly.

Pakku scoffed. “No need to… where did you get that necklace?”

“It was my mother’s.”

“It’s Northern.”

“My grandmother gave it to her. She was from the North.”

“Grandmother?” Pakku’s eyes widen as it dawned on him. “Kanna…”

Katara glared at him. “You knew Gran-Gran?”

“I was the one who carved that necklace for her… before she ran away. Now I see it. You’re just like her.” Pakku dropped his gaze. “Katara. If I knew who you were, I would have trained you properly. You truly are a talented water-”

“Stop.” Katara said firmly. “You should have trained be because I’m waterbender not because I’m the granddaughter of your lost lover.”

Katara left the stunned man without a second glance and climbed onto Appa.

Aang whimpered in his sleep as she rubbed his back. He groggily opened his eyes and looked up at her.

“Now what?”

She looked towards the pale moon before them and clutched her necklace again.

“We cross the horizon.”