Dear Mother,
Everything's changed. So quickly. A year ago, I never would have thought that I'd be here now... in the Fire Nation palace, about to witness the coronation of the new Fire Lord- of my close friend. I never thought I'd meet the Avatar, nevertheless help him bring peace to the world.
You probably never would have thought these things of me. At least, no rational person would have. But you - you never thought that way, did you? Do you remember what you told me, the first time you saw me waterbend? Dad panicked, and tried to make sure nobody saw, but you looked at me with this expression that I'll never forget, and told me that I'd save the world.
You always had hope. That's what you taught me.
I got through all of this because of you- because I have your heart. Your necklace is what grounded me. That connection to you, the memory of you, is what kept me going. I wanted to help Aang save the world for you; I didn't want your sacrifice to be in vain.
A few weeks ago, I encountered your killer. Zuko- the Fire Prince, the Fire Lord, my enemy, my friend- helped me get to him. I was so full of anger and rage, in the beginning... every feeling I felt connected to your death came to the surface again. I wanted to release it, all of it, on this man, this murderer.
I didn't do it. I didn't kill him. I've almost come to peace with my decision... almost, except that I don't want you to be angry with me. I didn't avenge you. But somehow, I know you're not angry. You wouldn't have wanted me to have blood on my hands. I said that I wasn't sure if I was too weak to kill him, or if I was strong enough not to. I know you think it was strength. And I love you for it.
I miss you, Mom. Still. Every day. Sokka does, too. Dad told me, yesterday, that I was starting to look like you. I don't think I'll ever be quite as beautiful, or as strong.
I love you, Mom. If you're watching, I hope you're proud of me.
- Katara