Disclaimer: I do not own Avatar: The Last Airbender.
I apologize for the long update; explanation below! I hope you will enjoy this chapter!
The last couple of days had been hectic for Zuko. Besides trying to adjust to the gang he had once chased after, the prince had realized he lost ability to firebend. It wasn't that he didn't have the power to, but Zuko could not produce a decent flame. He knew he wouldn't be fit to teach the Avatar if he himself cannot bend fire.
The solution was to revisit the old ruins of the Sun Warriors. Even if the people were gone, there would still be clues to within the remains. The two days they spent at the ruins were everything and more than they can ask for. Meeting the dragons face to face was an honor very few could survive through. Zuko realized that rage and anger was not the solution to fuel his fire, rather, fire was so much more than destruction. Life, energy, warmth…it was what he never once considered fire to be.
It was a gradual change Zuko was making but the anger within his heart lessened. Now, as he stared at the moon in the Western Air Temple, listening to the sound of the others chat by the fire, he couldn't help but still feel amiss.
Someone was supposed to belong here with them.
"We've been riding for hours. I don't know why, but I thought this thing would be a lot faster," Zuko leaned on the hand next to his cheek, watching the cloud and water fly by above the bison mount.
Appa growled below in response and Aang petted the bison comfortingly.
"Appa's right, Zuko. In our group, typically we start our missions with a more up-beat attitude," Aang chimed in.
Zuko lied back down, staring at the bright blue sky. Wherever he turned, it seems that he can only see blue.
"I can't believe this."
"Don't worry! You'll get the hang of it," Aang reassured from the front.
"That's not what I'm referring to," Zuko mumbled, his eyes glazed over at the sight in front of him. It was just—difficult to get the image of her out of his mind. He knew he was finally doing something right now—but Ameya wasn't here to see the change. He still wanted to see her again—to apologize—and do many other things to win her over again.
Aang glanced behind him, noticing the sudden silence of his companion and pursed his lips. The sight of blue skies and blue water were the only thing in view and subconsciously, he thought of Katara. But with the sullen sigh from Zuko, the young Avatar knew which waterbender he must be thinking of.
"So…you and Ameya…" Aang started casually…awkward.
Zuko shot up from his position, gold eyes widen at that name. No one else had really spoken to him about her yet. Besides the threat from Katara—Ameya had been…erased from any conversations. It was like they were…purposely avoiding her.
"She—did she say something?" He asked almost hopefully.
Aang glanced behind him again, taken back by the gleam in the older boy's eyes and hesitated.
"Uh—no," he rubbed the back of his bald head, "Not…really."
He could see Zuko visibly slump his shoulders and eyes sullen directed on the saddle. It was…almost entertaining to see such expressions from the once angry prince—the sight of him…heartbroken was so weird.
"Do you…know why she stayed behind?" Zuko whispered softly. If no one else can talk to him about Ameya, maybe Aang will be different. He was the one that brought her up in the first place.
"Just to stall the Fire Nation…I suppose?" Aang answered uncertainly when he realized that may not be the answer Zuko was looking for.
"She never mentioned me, did she?"
"No..." Aang answered but sometimes, he's not so sure.
That night when he was sleep deprived and Ameya talking next to him played in his mind, can't remember the exact conversation word for word of their talk about love and yet... He glanced at Zuko again, seeing the way his hair hung over his eyes in dejection and Aang couldn't help but believe something really did happen between them.
"...Sorry."
"Hey, can I talk to you for a second?"
Sokka's voice broke Zuko out of his thoughts, looking up at the Water Tribe boy walking away. He stood up as well and followed him curiously. Besides Aang, Sokka didn't treat Zuko like an enemy as before. The other boy also poked fun and teased him as always but—he was more…natural than his sibling. It was a slight relief for Zuko; it felt like he was slowly being accepted.
"So, what's up?"
Sokka contemplated, pausing for a second before asking, "If someone was captured by the Fire Nation, where would they be taken?"
Zuko froze; eyes widen just the slightest at the question. Although he had been musing on that answer for hours because of a certain thief, he wasn't expecting someone to actually ask him.
"What do you mean? Who was captured?" He tested the waters, trying to gauge Sokka's reaction.
"When the invasion plan failed, some of our troops were taken. I just want to know where they might be."
Did he mean Ameya? At that thought, Zuko wondered what relationship Ameya and Sokka may have but—it couldn't be a coincidence. Maybe Sokka meant someone else.
"I…can't tell you."
"What? Why not?"
"Trust me. Knowing would just make you feel worse." If it was the place Zuko was thinking of, there's a high chance Ameya may not be there. A boiling lake may not be exactly a great place to hold a waterbender captive.
"It's my dad," Sokka admitted, facing Zuko with a strong resolve, "He was captured too. I need to know what I put him through.
For some reason, Zuko felt a small sense of relief at that answer. So Sokka didn't mean her…
Zuko sighed when Sokka begged again.
"My guess is, they were taken to the Boiling Rock."
"What's that?" Sokka arched an eyebrow.
"The highest security prison in the Fire Nation. It's on an island in the middle of a boiling lake. It's inescapable."
Sokka rubbed his chin, thinking.
"So Ameya would not be put there," he mused to himself, but my dad might.
Zuko startled at her name spoken, staring at the Water Tribe boy with inquisition but Sokka ignored him.
"So…where is this place?"
"Why do you need to know? What are you planning?" Zuko narrowed his eyes.
"Oh nothing," Sokka paused, "Boy, you're so paranoid."
Zuko thought to himself, his mind already formulating a plan quietly as he debated whether to tell him or not.
"It's in the middle of a volcano between here and the Fire Nation. You guys actually flew right past it on your way here," he decided to tell in the end.
"Thanks, Zuko," Sokka let out a yawn, "Just knowing makes me feel better."
The brunette watched as Sokka walked past him, stretching his arms as if prepared to sleep and leaving Zuko alone.
"Yeah, I'm sure it does," Zuko muttered sarcastically. Still, he turned towards the moon hanging above and a small part of him prayed that what he suspects will come true.
And quietly, Zuko waited as everyone gradually fell asleep. He sat on the saddle above Appa, waiting for Sokka to inevitably sneak on board. And, it wasn't long until his suspicions were proven right as he watched a ponytail appear from the edge of the saddle.
"Not up to anything, huh?"
"Wah!" Sokka fell backwards from the bison. "Fine, you caught me. I'm gonna rescue my dad. You happy now?"
Zuko ignored the voice within his head that once asked the same question.
"I'm never happy."
"Look, I have to do this. The invasion plan was my idea, it was my decision to stay when things were going wrong. It's my mistake, and it's my job to fix it. I have to regain my honor. You can't stop me, Zuko." Sokka dusted his clothes and ignored the banished prince from his path.
"You need to regain your honor? Believe me, I get it." Zuko understood better than anyone. "I'm going with you."
"No. I have to do this alone."
For some reason, it felt like talking to a mirror. Sokka reminded Zuko of his past self, ironically, and he decided that's not a good thing. Sokka's constant refusal and terrible lies almost set Zuko off but—he learned to control it better now.
"How are you going to get there? On Appa? Last time I checked, prisons don't have bison daycares. We'll take my war balloon." Zuko felt like his uncle who had once reprehended him before. But without another word, Sokka followed Zuko after leaving a note for Momo to keep.
The ride, as it was with the Avatar, was just as awkward. They had flown through the night and they alternated their sleeping schedule to keep the war balloon afloat but now, both were awake during the day.
"Pretty clouds," Sokka casually commented.
Zuko glanced to the side. "Yeah…fluffy."
Another awkward silence. Sokka whistled.
"What?" Zuko turned back to him,
"What? Oh, I didn't say anything." Sokka paused, "You know, a friend of mine actually designed these war balloons."
"No kidding."
"Yep, a balloon…" Sokka droned on, "but for war."
Zuko frowned, turning his attention back to the tank to fuel it with more fire. "If there's one thing my dad's good at, it's war."
"Yeah, it seems to run in the family."
"Hey, hold on. Not everyone in my family is like that," Zuko was quick to defend, his mind wandering to the one person who had treated him right during his banishment.
"I know, I know, you've changed," Sokka waved it off.
"I meant my uncle. He was more of a father to me. And I really let him down." Zuko was downcast; looking away from the other boy as he remembered all the times Iroh had been there to guide him.
Sokka looked at him quietly. "I think your uncle would be proud of you. Leaving your home to come help us? That's hard."
"It wasn't that hard," Zuko muttered.
"Really?" Sokka probed on, "You didn't leave behind anyone you cared about?"
Zuko hesitated and Sokka caught on, sapphire eyes boring into him as he thought about the other waterbender he considered a sister.
"Well…I had an ex…" Zuko glanced at Sokka, catching those inquiring blue eyes and Zuko turned away, "girlfriend… Mai."
"Really?" Sokka arched a brow at that, "That gloomy girl who sighs a lot?" Then what about Ameya; Sokka did not ask aloud.
"Yeah," Zuko admitted with a small smile, "I realized she wasn't the one for me…but we stayed friends afterwards. Besides, everyone in the Fire Nation thinks I'm a traitor. I couldn't drag her into it."
There was another silence as Sokka contemplated his words. He glanced up at the sky, thinking about the few Water Tribe girls he had unexpected gotten close to.
"My first girlfriend turned into the moon."
Zuko's mouth hung open, looking at the sky once before turning back to Sokka.
"That's rough, buddy."
Sokka managed to crack a small smile at that, turning away from Zuko again as both teens were lost in thought. Zuko continued to bend fire into the tank, thinking back to those many months ago when he heard a similar conversation from the thief.
"Her name was Yue, wasn't it?" Zuko echoed those words from memory, glancing at Sokka and watched him nearly fall out of his seat.
It took Sokka about two seconds before realizing how Zuko could have known. Ameya was the one closest to Yue and yet, none of them were able to be with her during her mourning. Somehow, it was still a surprise to know how Ameya figured out Yue's sacrifice but at the thought of the prince's uncle, Sokka knew it wouldn't be too difficult.
He turned to the side, looking at the passing clouds again to avoid Zuko's gaze.
"I guess Ameya told you?"
Zuko flinched by her name but nodded his head regardless. "Just…the basics."
Sokka gave a side smile, resting his chin on the palm of his hand and wondered how much Ameya shared with him before.
"I made a promise to Yue; I will watch over Ameya even if she can't." Sokka started, a serious tone within his voice. "So whatever happened in the past, I don't wanna know…but just know you have a lot to make up for."
Zuko looked down yet there was a small hope in him for Sokka's acceptance.
"I know. I will own up to it."
Sokka continued to stare at him for a few more seconds, blue eyes stern against gold ones to see his sincerity before another smile emerged on the boy's lips. Seeing the light-heartedness on his face eased Zuko up, returning the small smile.
"Good. Well, that's enough outta me. The rest is up to you, buddy," Sokka grinned.
"You're a lot more forgiving than your sister," Zuko couldn't help but joke.
"What can I say? I'm the more compassionate of us two," Sokka shrugged but the smile on his face was smug and teasing.
The past few days were terrible.
Well, it wasn't like Ameya hadn't suffered worse. But, it had been a long while since she was treated like a prisoner with her hands bound behind her back no less. After the first twenty-some hours, she had already lost feelings within her arms and had tugged on the iron cuffs so hard Hakoda said there were bruises forming.
Luckily, Ameya had Hakoda here to keep her company. The elder man had been kind and thoughtful about the girl's situation; even his hands were bound to the front but it was a lot more comfortable than Ameya's.
What started out as a ship full of prisoners had dwindled as the days gone by. The two Kyoshi warriors had been escorted away first but not before sending the two Water Tribe a meaningful glance. Ameya remembered their conversation and also remember 'Suki'. Since she had time to reflect, she remembers that to be the name the Water Tribe siblings had mentioned before. Still, she was interested in seeing her in person. From what it sounded like, Suki had quite a story with Sokka.
"Hakoda," Ameya whispered, "I think we're arriving soon."
Hakoda looked up from his position on the floor, then to the less than dozen men scattered around them. The guards had taken away over twenty prisoners the past few days, leaving only a handful left to be transported to the Boiling Rock. Ameya had shown no fear as before, only observing with calm eyes at that guard's patrol routes.
"If Azula was right, I won't be staying in that prison for long," Ameya continued softly as Hakoda sat up to sit closer, listening into her conversation. "So when we arrive, I'm going to find a way for us to escape. If necessary, I may need assistance."
The elder man blinked, watching the younger girl study the prison doors with a thoughtful look on his face. She was fearless like his daughter and cunning like his son. As Water Tribe, Hakoda couldn't help but feel proud.
"Don't worry, I got your back."
Ameya sent a smile his way before closing her eyes, trying to get some last minute rest before their arrival.
Zuko and Sokka spent the past day trying to escape the prison with Suki. The fact that Zuko had gotten caught spelled trouble to their plans but it wasn't an issue; the other prisoners getting caught weren't a huge deal either. But, they cannot escape the Boiling Rock yet and their hope dangled on the small chance of the new arrivals would include Sokka's father.
There was a small, miniscule part within Zuko for Ameya to arrive, too. Although he knew Azula would be too sly to send the thief to a prison surrounded by water, there was still a small chance for him to pray.
And so, the three of them sneaked past the guards capturing the escaped prisoners, reaching the side of the prison where they can see a gondola descend. Their eyes focused intently on the door opening and a large man stepped through in handcuffs.
"Is that him?" Zuko asked curiously.
"My dad doesn't have a nose ring," Sokka retorted almost offended. The three continued to watch as other men stepped through but none of them were ones they recognized. "That's it? That can't be it."
Sokka was devastated and Zuko cursed himself on the budding hope he had, extinguished.
"Hey! Get off the gondola!"
Three pair of eyes focused back onto the door as slowly, another person emerged from the shadows. His tall, unwavering stature was a sight to behold for Sokka, his eyes widen in hope as he whispered 'dad'. Suki and Zuko smiled, realizing that postponing their escape was worth the wait and watched as the elder man slowly walked ahead.
Hakoda paused for one second, grunting when the prison guard shoved to walk faster but his eyes were focused on the silhouette within the gondola.
"Hey! I said move it!"
"I don't think that's a way to treat a lady."
Zuko's eyes widen, watching the thin frame of a young woman step out the gondola. Her piercing icy eyes were taunting the guards, short black hair blowing in the wind as she walked behind Hakoda. Seeing her safe, Hakoda continued his march.
"A-Ameya!" Sokka nearly screamed in disbelief yet it was filled with happiness, watching the two people he wanted to rescue the most.
"Oh—she's the girl you mentioned before," Suki realized, mouth parting in a small 'o' at the woman she heard only a few times in passing.
"She's..." Zuko couldn't say anything and he wanted nothing more than to run over to them. But—remembering that he was also a prisoner, he cannot do that just yet as he turned to Sokka quickly. "Go—see what they're doing. We have to get back to our cells."
Sokka snapped out of his daze, turning to the two and nodding their heads before separating. He quickly headed in that direction, squeezing his way to line up with the other guards but stayed close to the prisoners. His eyes were only focused on the two Water Tribe members.
At that time, a tanned elder man walked to inspect them, brown eyes scanning over the ten prisoners.
"Welcome to the Boiling Rock. I'm sure you've all heard the horrible rumors about our little island. Well, I just want to tell you that they don't have to be true, as long as you do everything I say," the Warden stopped in front of Hakoda, glaring at the other man. "Look me in the eye when I'm talking to you."
Hakoda frowned. "No."
"Oh? You'd rather look at my shoes?" The Warden glared at Hakoda even more and raised his leg, slamming it down onto his handcuffs and pinned him to the floor. "Then take a look!"
Ameya's hand twitched behind her, icy eyes glaring into the older man with disgust.
"I know exactly who you are, Hakoda of the Water Tribe. So strong-willed. But don't worry; we'll get rid of that in time. Now look me in the eye!"
Slowly, Hakoda looked up but the hate was evident in his blue eyes, returning the glare without holding back. Satisfied, the Warden continued his speech, eyes settling on the only young woman that had arrived as well.
"You will all do as I say or pay the price. You will all—"
But before he can continue his speech, Hakoda lifted the chain and tripped him, causing the Warden to fall flat on his face. At that time, Ameya could not contain the laugh that left her lips, loud and taunting as the Warden stumbled to stand up.
"Is that so funny to you, thief?" The Warden glared at Ameya and she returned the gaze politely, a pleasant smile on her lips as always.
"Yes, very." Ameya replied in a sweet voice.
Brown eyes narrowed in suspicion, studying the shorter girl before him in distaste as he remembered the Fire Nation Princess's letter to him.
"I know who you are too, Ah-may-ya. The Princess left specific instructions for me to take very good care of you, no matter how short you are staying," The Warden said lowly in warning.
"Oh?" But Ameya was unperturbed, smiling still as she replied, "What an honor for me. Little Zula must hold me in high regards."
"How dare you talk about our princess like that!" One of the guards roared.
Ameya merely glanced at the one spoken with a taunting smile.
"An inescapable prison?" Ameya chuckled, "I can't wait to break that record."
The Warden grew angry, reaching around the younger girl and pulled her up by her right arm, tightening his hold on the thin arm enough to bruise. Ameya refused to show pain on her face, biting down on her lips and gave a strained smile.
"Get these prisoners out of my sight! Make sure this one is never without chains!"
With a heavy thrust, he flung Ameya to the side. She fell on her bottom gracelessly but she was calm as she pushed herself upwards. If he thinks these pair of handcuffs would be enough to stop her from escaping, then that Warden was stupider than she thought.
She was taken to a different cell from Hakoda. The guards were rough as they escorted her far away on the other side of the prison, pushing Ameya to walk faster even though she was keeping pace with the two. The smile was wiped from her lips as she surveyed the prison. As expected, it was heavily guarded all around but it was not hopeless.
"Get in." One of the guards opened the door to a cell for her, pushing her in without waiting for a response and locked it behind.
Quietly, Ameya listened as the sound of footsteps got quieter and quieter. She sat on the uncomfortable blanket, leaning back on the iron walls and thought it was ironic how she, a once common thief, was sent to the Fire Nation's most secure prison.
She knew she must find a way to escape, rotting in a cell never fit well for her. But, Hakoda was on the other side of the prison. She must also find the one called 'Suki' too. Even if she did not know what she looked like besides having brown hair and blue eyes, it can't be very common for female prisoners to be sent here, can it?
Instead, Ameya closed her eyes again. She must wait and abide her time, as always. Here were more enemies than allies within this prison but Ameya was certain she will escape.
The time passed slowly as she waited for more news. There should be a time for the prisoners to be let out; whether to mingle or to do chores, Ameya does not know but she was waiting. It could be a chance for her to socialize and learn from the other prisoners.
Suddenly, the door opened. The metal screeching was loud enough for her to open her eyes, glaring at the prison guard that just entered. There was a smirk on her lips as she gauged the other man; she can take him in a fight. Slowly, she angled her legs under her, ready to propel herself forward in necessary.
"Thank goodness you're here!"
Ameya startled as the guard threw his hands in the air, relief filling his voice as he quickly discarded his helmet. Icy blue met sapphire eyes as she resisted the urge to laugh at the 'guard'. Really—really ironic.
"Sokka...!"
She rose up to her feet, smiling at the Water Tribe boy in pure happiness. It felt like forever ago since they had last seen each other but Ameya was sure it had been less than a week. Sokka gave Ameya a hug and although she couldn't return it, she merely leaned in closer.
"Why are you—how did you—?"
Sokka chuckled. "I'll explain everything—but first, let's loosen up these cuffs."
Ameya let out a sigh in relief. "Thank you. I thought my wrists are going to break at this point."
"I'll still have to put it on after," Sokka was serious, "You heard the Warden. But don't worry; it'll be loose enough to slip out of."
She sent a grateful smile his way. "Thanks."
And so, Sokka began to explain the reason he entered the prison. He wanted to find his father and—hopefully her too because he felt responsible for the attack. Along the way, he also found Suki, the girl Ameya kept hearing about and watched the way his eyes lit up at her name. But quickly, that feeling was smothered by Sokka once he saw Ameya again, an almost guilty look in his eyes as he quickly diverts his story to something else.
"And so, my dad and I figured out another plan to escape. We will—"
"Sokka, wait," something seemed to not add up in the story and the boy paused, blinking at Ameya in curiosity. "You never explained how you got into the prison."
Suddenly, Sokka could feel himself sweat at Ameya's inquiring gaze. He purposely avoided mentioning a specific person in front of her—it had been so easy in front of Hakoda but—Ameya—there was just something within her icy eyes that...scares Sokka sometimes.
"O-oh! Well, you see," Sokka cleared his throat and quickly recounted his tale. "Zuko followed us after the invasion and begged us to take him in so he can train Aang in firebending and at first we didn't agree but he helped us with Combustion Man but kicking him off the cliff at the Western Air Temple. He went on a trip with Aang to relearn firebending and he also brought me to the prison because I asked and so long story short, he's good now!"
Ameya blinked once.
Then twice.
And suddenly, Sokka felt the air chill around them—which was ironic because he knew how hot it was to be in the boiling lake prison exactly but—this chill was worse than being in the cooler. He could see Ameya clench her hands so tightly, veins were popping out from the back of her pale hands. He could only gulp, mentally making a small prayer to Zuko and hoped this would not affect their escape plan.
"Zuko..." she hissed out his name quietly, "is here?"
Sokka dearly hoped he would not be dragged into their lover's quarrel.
"Y-yeah. B-but I swear, Ameya, he's here to help—"
"What's the plan?"
Now, it was Sokka's turn to blink. He watched the young woman in front of him calm her expression—calming it so well that it looked like a blank mask instead. He could not read Ameya when she turned into this—it reminded him of their days on the ship. It reminded him of the false smiles and bruised skins.
"H-huh?"
"The plan to escape," Ameya reiterated, slower this time as she massaged her sore wrists. "What do you need me to do?"
Sokka could barely focus on the question, eyeing the blank blue eyes before him. "Hey...are you ok—"
"I'm fine, Sokka," Ameya barely managed to smile, "The priority is the escape right now. You've been here too long, any longer and it will be suspicious."
"O-okay."
Inwardly, Sokka believed that Ameya was not 'fine' as she put it.
But she was right. Now, they must focus on escaping first. While this was an issue Zuko and Ameya must settle by themselves, Sokka only hoped they can rekindle...whatever they use to have. At this point, Sokka believed in Zuko. He believed their relationship was genuine before and—even though Ameya was still hurting now, one day he hoped she won't be.
After a brief explanation of the plan, Sokka left. Ameya leaned against the iron wall again, gazing at the metal roof without movement.
Zuko was here.
Of all the places, he was here. Helping Sokka. Helping the Avatar.
Really, how ironic can this all be?
When Ameya had been prepared to face him during the invasion, she promised to show him no mercy.
Now, here he was presented on a silver platter for them—and Ameya couldn't even fight him! There were so much pent up frustration she still felt, so much regret and anger and the undeniable feeling of heartache still lingers at the mention of his name.
How was she supposed to even face him?
How can she smile at him again and pretend everything was okay—just for the sake of a harmonious friendship within the gang? Ameya was not stupid enough to allow her personal feelings to prevent the Avatar from firebending.
She buried her head in her arms, head clouded by all the questions and regrets.
What would he do if he saw her now? How does Zuko feel now? What about his girlfriend?
"Damn it," Ameya cursed to herself.
Stop thinking about it.
He's moved on.
I've moved on too.
Zuko was anxious.
Maybe 'anxious' was too light of a word to use. He felt restless and weary, nervous yet excited. There were just a bundle of emotions colliding within him as he waited for any news from Sokka.
Ameya was here.
Ameya was in the prison with him. She may be trapped here like them but—she was here and safe. Of all the places Zuko had imagined their reunion to be, he never thought a prison would be where they reunite. And yet, it was somehow fitting. He had once kept her a prisoner to him but she always found a way to escape. Now, he felt the need to be the one to rescue her.
But, does she even want to see him again?
Oh, who was he kidding? Even Zuko didn't want to see himself again after what he had done.
But he must prepare himself for any spite that may be directed to him. Ameya can hit him; curse him, do whatever she wanted with him as long as Zuko can gain her forgiveness. He will beg; he will kneel; he will do anything because he knew he hurt her terribly.
As long as he can see her smile again—he will do anything.
It was not long before Sokka arrived. For whatever odd reason, Zuko had to be escorted away but not without hearing the parting message from Sokka.
"We have a new plan, but it's gonna need a big distraction. Be in the yard in one hour."
And just like that, Sokka and Zuko were separated. He wasn't even able to ask the other about Ameya. The banished prince was dragged off to another cell, somewhere far from his original one and he demanded answers from the guard.
"What are you doing? Where are you taking me?" He was thrown onto a chair in another cell. "I didn't do anything wrong!"
"Come on, Zuko," he froze by the voice, slowly turning towards the shadow to where the dull voice had come from. "We all know that's a lie."
"Mai!"
Zuko slumped in the chair, avoiding the other woman's sharp gaze as he focused on the pointed shoes she wore. He was definitely not expecting to see Mai first, not when his mind had been preoccupied with Ameya the past few hours.
"How did you know I was here?"
"Because I know you so well," Mai replied sarcastically.
"But, how—"
"The warden's my uncle, you idiot." Oh, right, Zuko remembered the Warden mentioning that before. He could only sigh and waited. "The truth is, I guess I don't know you. All I get is a letter? You could have least looked me in the eye when you ripped out my heart for the second time."
He inwardly winced. He knew which 'first time' Mai meant. He thought her love was not as strong as his—Zuko knew his feelings for Mai will never match Ameya but—the difficulties in dealing with it now was biting him back.
"I didn't mean to—"
"You didn't mean to?" Mai repeated harshly. She raised the letter, reading the line word for word as she tried to control her anger. "'Dear Mai, I'm sorry you that you have to find out this way, but I'm leaving'."
Zuko grew frustrated, raising his head towards her direction. "Stop! This isn't about you. This is about the Fire Nation!"
"Thanks Zuko, that makes me feel all better," her sarcasm was laced with every word and she threw the letter at him, still frustrated with the whole situation. She gave him everything—even without his love, Mai still supported him despite the heartbreak.
But in the end, he still ran away.
"Mai, I never wanted to hurt you. But I have to do this to save my country," Zuko stood up to face her.
"Save it? You're betraying your country!" Mai retorted.
"That's not how I see it," Zuko refused to back down.
The dark haired beauty crossed her arms, narrow eyes glaring at the one she had the unfortunate of falling in love with. Mai could not get Azula's voice out of her mind, saying that the little thief was sent to the Boiling Rock and not even a few days later—she received a message from her uncle saying the banished prince was here.
Did Zuko even know that girl was here? Was that why Zuko infiltrated the prison? Was it all for just one girl?
"Tell me the truth, Zuko," Mai started again, eyes cold against golden ones, "You're here for her, aren't you?"
Zuko sighed. "Truthfully? I only found out now."
Mai studied the disheartened look from the young man. She saw the way his eyes glazed over at the mention of 'her'; saw the way he looked towards the door in longing. A frown was upon Mai's pale lips at that site, wondering why Zuko didn't fall for her of all people. If he did, he would have not betrayed his own nation.
"She doesn't love you anymore, Zuko."
Mai couldn't help but blurt out. Azula had told her the brief encounter they shared during the invasion. Azula had mentioned how the waterbending thief had not cared at the mention of Zuko. That girl didn't deserve his devoted love. Why was he still so hung up on her?
Why can't it be Mai?
"What...?"
Those golden eyes widen in shock and disbelief yet Mai felt herself growing angrier at his reaction. Why does he still care?
"Azula saw her during the invasion and kindly asked her about you," Mai continued on, not caring if she was twisting a few words from Azula's original tale. "She said she 'could care less' about you. What's the point of betraying your own nation for her?"
Zuko snapped out of his daze, glaring back at Mai for her words.
"I told you, this isn't about her either! I'm not betraying my nation; I'm trying to save it! Ameya—she was just another victim in all of this."
Mai stayed quiet, her mind still blaring with questions and accusation. She hated this envy burning within her and hated how adamant Zuko was defending 'Ameya'. Her eyes locked with his again, voice quiet as she asked one more question.
"If she was Fire Nation, would you still do the same?"
Betray the country.
Betray his friends.
Betray Mai.
Zuko startled back at that. Why did Mai suddenly ask that? He opened his mouth yet no words came out, pausing as he thought about the woman with her own justice. Ameya may steal and lie but it never harmed anyone. Ameya may be aloof and distant—but she fought for the ones she cares for.
A small, wry smile appeared on his lips as his thoughts wandered to Ameya again. He already knew what she would be like even as Fire Nation.
"Yes," Zuko answered, the smile widening, "Because she would be just like me."
After Sokka had left, Ameya was left alone to meditate. She convinced herself it was what she needed before facing him again. Although Ameya does not truly believe the whole 'Zuko's changed' theory from Sokka, she will wait and see. It was still painful thinking about him but—if she was forced to see him again—as allies—then Zuko better pray he does not slip up. She had given him too many chances and gave him more of herself to him than anyone else.
But what if he apologizes? The small, ridiculous part of herself had asked.
It'll take more than one apology to forgive him. Ameya frowned, I still plan on making him regret.
Suddenly, a loud sound rang through the prison. There was a release of a lock and the iron door swung open, causing Ameya to snap out of her thoughts and slowly smiled. She focused on the iron cuffs chained in front of her hands now and with a deep breath, blew icy air over the metal. It froze over and became brittle as she slammed it on the ground, causing it to shatter.
Rubbing her sore wrists again, Ameya stood up and ran out the door.
Similar prisoners like her were walking out the yard but the closer they walked, the louder it got. When they reached the open area, a prison riot was wrecking havoc on the yard. Both prisoners and guards were fighting each other. The inmates besides Ameya ran out to join the fun and she quickly scanned the area, looking for her fellow Water Tribe members.
Avoiding the rioting people, she ran around the safer areas with less fighting. She spotted the lightly grey hair of Hakoda, then Sokka in his guard uniform, a young woman with brunette hair, and a tall man by them. Her eyes lit up at the sight of her friends and made her way over. Unexpectedly, someone had also reached the other four people first, flinging an inmate over his shoulder before turning to Sokka.
None of them had noticed Ameya yet but her sprint had stopped. Her eyes widen at the appearance of the banished prince, still doubtful that he was here in the first place. There were still questions and accusations and many other pent-up frustrations left in her as she glared at him, trying to contain the hot tears that wanted to spill.
A rough hand landed on her shoulder then and she turned around to glare at the owner. A masculine prisoner aimed one arm back for a punch and without wasting a second, Ameya ducked and swiped at his legs. He fell with a large thud and she stomped her foot onto his back, trying to get rid of the anger she felt before facing anyone again.
"Ameya!"
But it was too late, someone had saw. She turned her eyes towards the group; a slight glare was still within her eyes as she stared at golden ones. There was a split second where they felt the chill drop in the air; Sokka nervously side glanced at Zuko.
"You guys need the Warden right?"
Ameya asked evenly as she walked towards the group, smoothing the glare to a blank look. Zuko gulped as Ameya approached closer, his eyes searching for hers but she refused to look at him again. Without another glance, she brushed past them, eyes only focused on the guards on the tower.
Not bothering to hear their response, Ameya ran. She sprinted towards the tower and jumped over the prisoners, using them as stepping stones and propelled herself upwards. Her feet hooked around a pole and she used the momentum to swing herself upwards, landing on the tower easily right as a second body land with her.
Ameya didn't have time to introduce herself when a guard rushed over to them, firebending a small stream of fire towards Suki and Ameya pushed her out of the way. Suki took a large step forward from the push and punched the guard in the stomach, twisting him around to slam him on the railing as Ameya recovered herself to steal the handcuffs from his waist. She cuffed him to the railing quickly as two more guards rushed out from the corner.
Ameya and Suki shared one glance at each other then back to the guards with a smirk. Quickly, they both ran over at once. Suki made fast work with the first guard to engage them and Ameya hopped onto the railing, aiming for the second guard who tried to throw fire at her. Dodging effortlessly, she twisted her body to kick him in midair and jumped off of him.
She climbed her way upwards using the ledges and railings along the way, seeing the Warden at the next level. One guard was there to stop them but Ameya jumped on the side of the wall to avoid the fire, jumping right on him and pinned him to the ground.
At that time, Suki had made it up and ran past Ameya, heading towards the Warden. She deflecting the punch the Warden had aimed at her easily with one hand and twisting his body around. With fast movements, Suki tied his wrists together, preventing him from moving and used his headband to gag his mouth.
"Sorry, warden. You're my prisoner now," Suki said smugly before turning towards Ameya.
She had finished cuffing the guard the railing, brushing short locks away from her face and turned to the brunette as well. Short, brown hair and blue eyes met her gaze and immediately, Ameya knew this was the 'Suki' she had been hearing about.
"I don't think we've been properly introduced," Ameya gave a slight smile; "I'm Ameya."
"Suki," she returned the smile, "I've heard a lot about you."
"Same here," Ameya chuckled and glanced back to see the four other men following them. Immediately, gold eyes were on her again but she refused to acknowledge him, turning away from them and began to walk away quickly.
"Wow," Hakoda whispered out of breath, "Those are some girls."
Sokka let out a silly smile, eyes focused on the brunette of the two. "Tell me about it."
Zuko bit his lips, saying nothing as he wordlessly followed after them.
The largest man of them all, Chit Sang, was carrying the Warden and Ameya was the one leading them in the charge. The gondola was right before their eyes but many guards took notice of the escapees, bending a stream of fire in their direction.
Ameya didn't have time to react when she was shoved backwards, staring at the back of the Fire Nation Prince dispelling the stream of fire. She rubbed her arm tenderly, ignoring how he had hit the bruise from earlier but most importantly—ignoring the familiar heat of his hands.
"Back off! We've got the warden!" Zuko warned.
The four guards saw the Warden tied up and stopped fighting, walking off to the side hesitantly.
"Let's go," Ameya instructed and brushed past Zuko again, leading the group ahead.
Zuko lingered behind to guard their exit and Ameya slammed the gondola door open. Suki instructed everyone to get in. Quickly, they go on the gondola except for Zuko and, despite her mental protests, Ameya looked out to see him operating the lever and as soon as the gondola moved, he kicked it broken.
"That idiot," Ameya whispered to herself; he's going to have to jump.
Zuko ran; his eyes trained on the gondola and the blue eyed woman on it. Without any hesitation, he jumped off, ignoring the many fire blasts and reached his hand out. Ameya leaned over the gondola to grasp his arm, eyes narrowing and struggling to hold his surprised gaze; she blamed her instinct to help him in the first place.
Sokka and Hakoda helped lift Zuko inside. Ameya was the first to let go but—she couldn't leave just yet. Zuko was still grasping onto her arm. A fierce glare was within her eyes again and Zuko flinched, finally letting go of her pale wrist but not before seeing the dark bruises on it.
"What are you doing?" Sokka asked.
Zuko turned away from Ameya. "I'm making it so they can't stop us."
"Way to think ahead!" Sokka complimented.
Ameya returned her position to the back of the gondola, eyes narrowed at two figures standing at the station. She recognized the familiar topknot and armor of the princess, wondering why Azula was here. There was a girl Ameya had never seen before next to Azula and dressed in a pink uniform.
"Azula is here too?" Ameya really thought today was ironic. Who was the one that said they will never meet again? "Who's that next to her?"
"Ty Lee," Zuko was next to her again but he couldn't spare the time to question her; there were more pressing matters on hand. "She specializes in close combat and sealing pressure points."
Ameya didn't bother to acknowledge him again and watched Azula take a handcuff from a nearby guard. She propelled herself upward with fire and strapped one side of the handcuff onto the gondola wire, the other hand firebending her way towards them. Ty Lee jumped onto the roof and was nimbly running across the wire.
"This is a rematch I've been waiting for," Suki glared at the acrobat.
"Me too," Zuko agreed but his eyes were focused on his sister.
"Get in line," Ameya finally spoke to him, making her way to climb out the window and onto the roof.
Zuko, Sokka, and Suki followed after her right as Azula and Ty Lee appeared. There was a slight frown on the princess's lips at the sight of the waterbender and that was enough for a taunting smirk to appear on Ameya's lips.
"Fancy meeting you here, Azula," Ameya started, "I thought we were never going to see each other again."
"Running back to Zuko's arms even though he doesn't love you? How shameless," Azula retorted back tauntingly, "Mai is sure to be heartbroken."
Ameya scowled. Who cares what those two did? Just leave her out of it!
Zuko turned to the waterbender with wide eyes, trying to deny his sister's words. "Ameya, that's not true—"
Azula didn't give him the opportunity to finish and bent a blue wave of fire towards them. Zuko quickly stepped in front of Ameya and bent his own fire to counter the other, leaving Ameya to watch his back again. On the other side, Suki and Sokka already engaged their duel with Ty Lee in close combat.
Zuko continued to block Azula's flame, allowing Ameya to enter in a close range towards her. Although there was water below them, it was too far below for the waterbender to call upon. Without a weapon, Ameya can only rely on her own close combat skills and Zuko to defend against the flames. As much as she hated to admit it, she needed him.
Blue flames were dangerously close to face but Ameya managed to sidestep it, throwing a punch in Azula's direction but she blocked it with her arm. Zuko followed up by a fire on Azula's side but the princess dodged towards Ameya, almost shoving her in the direction of the flames. Ameya ducked and swiped at her feet but Azula jumped away, landing right on her hands and balanced her whole body on it.
With a swing and a kick, another wave of blue fire was aimed in their direction. Ameya rolled away but the corner of her shirt caught on fire, slowly spreading upwards towards the rest of the clothing but a pale hand grasped onto the shirt. Icy eyes met golden ones as Zuko let go after extinguishing the flames, avoiding looking at the slight bare stomach the burnt shirt had revealed.
"Wow, flirting right in the middle of a battle?" Azula couldn't help but taunt sarcastically.
Ameya could only jump away from Zuko and he turned his attention back to Azula, fire bursting from his hand at her comment.
Before they can continue, the gondola shifted dangerously and pause the battle on board. Sokka stumbled back at that moment, crashing into Ameya and rolling down on the metal roof towards Zuko's direction. Zuko quickly reached down to grasp onto the boy's hand before he fell off the gondola and Sokka let out a sigh of relief.
Ameya stumbled to regain her balance from the accidental crash but with the shaking gondola, she was edging treacherously close to the end of the roof. Her eyes widen at the sight, then to Azula who had a glint in her eyes at her lost of balance. With a wave of her hand, Azula bent a fire blast at Ameya's foot, causing her to take a large step away—but towards the edge of the roof.
"Ameya!" Suki shouted, watching the whole thing transpire from the end of her gondola and the boys turned to her.
Zuko released one hand from Sokka and attempted to grab Ameya—but it was too late. Her arms were stretched in his direction yet she was falling backwards and suddenly—she was plummeted towards the boiling water.
"No!" Zuko screamed as he stabilized Sokka back on board but they were looking overboard and towards the steamy water.
Ameya gasped at the gush of hot wind hitting her body. With a twist of her torso, she faced the approaching water with determination. She'd rather not be burned alive and—it may be risky but as a waterbender, she believed in her element and herself.
Her hands reached towards the water, creating a spiral from the surface to shoot upwards. She sucked in a large breath and blew over the spiral wave, freezing the tip of the liquid then slowly edging downwards. The boiling lake was still immensely hot, melting the ice within seconds but it was enough for Ameya to land on the cooled water. Still, it was not enough to balance the temperature correctly as the warm water touched her legs but she ignored it, bending the water upwards for her to land on the gondola again.
Three pair of eyes was staring at her arrival incredulously, looking back and forth between the boiling lake and Ameya's unscathed appearance with wonder. The majority of the water fell back into the lake but a decent chunk surrounded Ameya protectively.
"Ameya!" Sokka shouted in relief and shock, "Next time, can you not give us such a scare?!"
She blinked, shrugging her shoulders sheepishly at him. "It wasn't like I wanted to fall off. Besides, that was still dangerous—"
A pair of hands reached over her shoulders and golden eyes were staring down at her worriedly, scanning her wet body for injuries yet was relieved to find none. Ameya froze at the appearance of Zuko, her bending distracted and water spilled over the roof.
"You're okay," Zuko let out a whisper in relief, "Thank the Spirits—you're okay."
She snapped out of her daze and pushed his hands away, taking a step away from him and ignored the hurt look on his face. From her distance, Ameya saw the Fire Nation Princess and her friend on the other gondola, shock evident on the former's face at her survival.
"The gondola's stopped?" Ameya finally realized, looking towards the station and saw two soldiers cutting the thick line.
The four of them made it back inside where Hakoda, Chit Sang, and the Warden were.
"What are the chances of you waterbending us out of here?" Hakoda turned towards Ameya.
Ameya frowned slightly, looking at the boiling lake below then to the large gondola.
"It would be difficult without a stationary ground but—if worst comes to worst, I can try."
The swaying gondola would be hard for Ameya to control her movement and from this distance; she would not be able to call upon the water. Plus, she could not have the time to cool the water as she had done before—which meant they may suffer through some burns if water leaked onto the boat or if they stay in it for too long.
Ameya's impromptu plan did not need to go into effect when the gondola started moving again. They ran towards the edge, leaning out to catch a lone figure fighting off guards by herself. Ameya's eyes widen at the dark haired beauty she only seen once, hand clenching tightly on the railing and couldn't help but sneak a glance at Zuko.
"Who's that?" Sokka was astonished.
"It's Mai!" Zuko answered.
The girl tilted her head in their direction but her gaze was not on the prince. Ameya held her breath as Mai looked at her and from this distance; it was hard to tell if it was really her she was looking at. But, in Mai's distraction, more soldiers snuck up behind her and without a thought, Ameya bended the water dripping from the roof into icicles. With a quick thrust, three sharp icicles flew in the station's direction; nearly grazing Mai's kneeled form but passed her to pin two guards down.
"You—"
Ameya ignored the questioning gazes and walked towards the door of the gondola. With Mai's stalling, they had quickly arrived at the other end of the station. She pulled the door open and everyone got off one by one. Chit Sang threw the Warden back into the gondola and Ameya leaned against the door smugly.
"I think I broke two records today. The fastest prison break from the 'inescapable prison'. Not bad, wouldn't you say?" Ameya smiled to him pleasantly.
She ran off after the others as they made it to the rim of the volcano. Although escaping the prison was one thing, leaving the island was another.
"Well, we made it out. Now what?" Suki questioned.
Zuko paused as he stared at the prison again. Ameya thought he regretted leaving Mai.
"My sister was on that island."
"Yeah, and she's probably right behind us, so let's not stop!" Sokka pointed out.
"What I mean is she must have come here somehow." Zuko walked ahead of them, scanning over the edge of the beach and pointed down. "There! That airship is our way out of here!"
Quickly, they ran towards the war balloon. It was as massive as Azula's ego, very fitting for all six of them and then more. As soon as they entered, Ameya allowed Sokka and the rest to operate the balloon. She found a corner to herself and sat down, feeling worn out from the whole escape. With a wave of her hand, Ameya bended the leftover water from her clothes and cloaked her hand with it. She guided the water onto her wrists, healing the damage skin from the days of being chained.
She could feel another pair of eyes looking at her but she didn't bother paying mind to it. As soon as
Ameya was done healing, she lied down and fell asleep.
A/N:
I know it's been nearly a year since I've last updated but would this chapter make up for it? And also the fact that I'll be getting married in March? Ehehee/ sorry it's been hectic but I will do my best to write detailed chapters such as this one since this story is nearing the end... This chapter is the longest chapter up to date with 9k words...lool
If you guys are interested, I do have a My Hero Academia OC story and a BTS story on my AO3 (cardydesu) if you want to read other fics by me u-u/
Sorry again for the late update but I hope you all enjoyed this! Reviews are very much appreciated! Does anyone still read this? ahahaa