Chapter 11: Flowing Friendship

(Crystal POV)

Sixty-five days. I'd been with Zuko and his uncle for sixty-five days. Placing the ink-pen back in its holder, I saw Zuko pacing back and forth across the room. He'd been restless for the last three days, and I constantly questioned him about his sanity. He told me he was anxious to capture the Avatar before Zhao. Seeing Zhao's determination the other day had him on edge. It seemed Zuko feared Zhao would capture Aang and take away his chance of going home.

After a few more rounds of his pacing around the room, I let out a heavy breath. I wondered how many more he would do. It felt like he could burn a hole at this point with his nonstop feet. Standing from the table, I rolled up the paper to put it back beside my cot. As I headed across the room, I stopped to let Zuko pass on his next pace, and then continued towards my cot.

Placing the scroll back beside my pillow, I turned to glance at the anxious prince once more. He looked like he needed a distraction. How could I distract him?

Then the thought hit me.

"Hey Zuko… Want to spar?"

Zuko froze in his step, and his eyes darted over to me with bewilderment. "Spar… with you?"

Immediately, I felt embarrassed. Quickly, I turned away and crossed my arms. "Never mind. That was a stupid suggestion. Sorry I brought it up."

There was silence for a moment. Then Zuko spoke again. "Training with you could be dangerous. My fire could hurt you."

Turning my gaze back to him, I gave a small smile. "I'm not that weak, Zuko. I could take you. I mean, I only know a few moves… but I really need to stretch my arms and legs… and it would be fun to spar. I've never done it before."

He grimaced at the memory of our last fight as he recalled just how not weak I was. Then he nodded in agreement. "Fine. We'll spar for a little bit. It would be nice to train against another element for once in my life." He stepped over to me so he could look down with firmness. "I have a few conditions though. You can only use the water I provide for you on deck. Taking water from the sea is unfair. Also, if you feel at any time I might hurt you, tell me so we can stop immediately."

I rolled my eyes. "You won't hurt me."

"Fire can be unpredictable, Crystal. One wrong move and I could hurt you by mistake."

I spoke with confidence. "I'll be fine. You're pretty controlled. Be more scared of my ice missiles. I have horrible aim."

Zuko laughed.

About an hour later Zuko and I were standing on deck prepared to spar. We didn't bother to tell Iroh about our plans, deciding he would probably be against it and stop us. Before I left the room, Zuko had tossed my water tribe clothing at me. They'd been washed up some, but were tattered and very loose. Leaving the coat off, I pulled on my water tribe shirt and trousers. I could tell I'd lost weight as soon as I put them on, and I had to tie the trousers with a small rope for a belt. Pulling on my boots afterward, I realized it had been a very long time since I'd been in my own nation's clothing. Terrifyingly, the clothes I wore felt strange to me after weeks of Fire Nation attire. Tying my hair up with a ribbon, I tried not to think about it too much.

"We'll spar for a little bit. Don't get too tired. Let me know when you've had enough."

Zuko was irritating me as he continued to freak about our match while we stood on deck. I wasn't a fragile little girl. I could fight him. Sure, this was my first spar ever, but I was confident I could hold my ground. He would be the one to surrender.

Some pots had been filled with water and placed on deck for me to use. A few of the crewmen I held conversations with stood anxiously to the side, not liking what was about to transpire. Lieutenant Jee was against it from the start when he heard our plans, but Zuko's word was the final word. Jee ended up standing by the rest of the crew, watching the scene with uncertainty. I knew they were just concerned for my safety. They had all taken me under their wing in the last few weeks.

"Whenever you're ready," Zuko encouraged. He backed his foot and got into a solid stance ready to fight.

Standing in my own stance, I smiled with thrill. I'd never gotten the chance to train with someone else before. This would be so much fun!

"Don't cry too much," I joked.

He was surprised by my confidence. Then he relaxed from his uncertainty and smirked. "I'll prepare to sob."

Shutting my eyes for a second, I took in a deep breath. My hands moved beside me as I felt the flowing liquid move in the pots around me. The water called to me, and I listened.

Shooting my hands up, streams from two pots shot above me. Then with a thrust of my hands, the water shot down towards the young man who was mixed with surprise and awe. As the water shot down towards him, he jerked his body to the side and shot a flame from his fist in my direction. Dropping my previous water, I lifted some more from a pot behind me and threw it in front of me. My water and his fire collided creating a hiss of steam.

With the steam in the air, I took back some of the evaporated particles and managed to form them into liquid mid-air. Then I shot the sudden blob of water towards Zuko. His eyes widened and he twisted his body to the side managing to dodge the attack by an inch. When he turned back towards me, he shot a volley of flames which I darted out of the way to dodge.

Grabbing more water from another pot, I jerked it straight at Zuko who went to block it with his fire. Just as it headed towards him, I changed the water's direction and jerked it around him. He was still facing me when the stream smashed into his back sending him stumbling forward. He gasped in surprise, his shirt soaked. He had not expected my behind attack.

He was amazed. "You said you learned on your own?"

I smiled with a small spout of inner pride. "Yep. Just me, myself, and I."

He seemed intrigued. "Well you've definitely taught yourself some interesting things."

He jumped up and shot fire at me again with his foot. I grabbed water from the deck as I darted to the right, and as the attack whizzed past me I threw my water on the deck under Zuko's jump. Freezing the deck, Zuko made his land only to slip and fall onto his back.

I couldn't help it. Zuko lay on the steel floor stunned, and I giggled. "You okay?"

I heard his crew snicker and cough laughs a little ways away.

Zuko managed to get to his feet and step away from the patch of ice. He was flustered from his fall. "I'm fine!"

He shoved his foot forward on the deck then, sending a wave of fire towards me. As the fire came at me, I grabbed more water from the pots around me and created a vortex of water to surround my body. As the water swirled around me, the flames hit the liquid and died away. Then I shot the vortex towards Zuko who raced forward. He threw his hands in front of him and somehow dived through the vortex towards me.

Only a second later, he landed right in front of me and my hand was restrained. I was forced to drop my water and it splashed around us. Zuko seemed victorious as he held my hand to stop my attack.

I was surprised. "Hey! I didn't know we were doing hand to hand."

He smiled. He leaned forward and I felt his breath brush my face. "You might as well give up then."

I smirked. "You may want to do that yourself."

Using my free hand, I grabbed the water soaking the deck and pulled it at Zuko. I wrapped the stream around his ankle and jerked my hand forward. The stream caught Zuko's leg and jerked him back. He released me to turn his body quickly so he wouldn't fall. While he was distracted, I froze the puddle of water under his feet again causing him to slide forward. He landed once more on the deck, this time falling on his back. While he happened to be down, I released his leg from the stream and brought the water above him. He gasped. I laughed. With delight, I dropped the water down on him as if he were caught in a sudden down pour. When the last of the water fell, Zuko was soaked to the bone from head to toe.

"Well that spar was fast," I commented. "What was that? Five minutes or so?"

"No one said the spar was over," Zuko commented.

I looked down at him with surprise. "Huh?"

He jerked his body around so fast I didn't have time to jump. His heel connected with my ankle and I fell forward with a cry. My body met the deck, and I felt the wet steel beneath me, slightly dazed. Then a second later, I was grabbed on the shoulder and turned around to stare up at the bright sky above. As I did so, I heard Zuko's own laughter in my ear.

"Always keep an eye on your opponent," he tipped. Looking over, I saw Zuko was kneeling beside me, his eyes light as water dripped from his topknot. "First rule of a spar."

I couldn't help it. I sat up, smiled widely, and laughed. "Hey! You learned something today too. Don't ever underestimate your opponent."

He shook his head in disbelief. "Yeah… Sorry I doubted you." He stood up then and held a hand out towards me. I took it and was helped to my feet. "You're right though. Our spar didn't last very long."

"I think we enjoyed ourselves too much," I commented.

He nodded in agreement. His smile was the widest and most genuine I'd ever seen from him.

The ship suddenly lurched as it made a sharp turn. Zuko gasped from the sudden slope of the ship and fell back. I shrieked as I was pulled with him since his hand still held my own. My body landed on his warm one cushioning my fall. The other men who had watched our spar gasped as they too struggled to stay upright.

Zuko still held to my hand as we were sprawled on deck. When the ship finally leveled out, I heard Zuko let out an aggravated sigh. "Uncle…"

I took in a heavy breath. "Where is he taking us now?"

"Beats me."

When Zuko spoke, his chest vibrated. My heart began to pound in my ears as I realized our bodies were pressed against one another. My skin burned, and for some reason I didn't want to move. I was strangely at ease, and I noticed Zuko made no move either as we lay on the deck.

"Sir!" A guard stepped forward to aid us. "Are you alright?"

Zuko jumped at the sudden interruption. "Yes… I'm fine."

As if a spell were broken, Zuko let go of my hand and grabbed my shoulders. He sat up which caused me to sit on my knees. When I finally could see his face, I could see he was completely flustered as well.

He looked me over with concern. "Are you okay?"

I nodded. "Um… Yeah. Thanks to you."

The young man who still held my shoulders couldn't help but smile weakly. Then he stood and helped me up. "I'm going to go question the helm. We can spar some more another day." He turned away and headed towards the door to the helm. As he went, I saw him rub the back of his neck abashed by what had just occurred.

A few hours later, I found that we were docking at the port of an Earth Kingdom fishing village. Zuko explained to me that Iroh had lost the Lotus Tile he used in our Pai Sho games. I secretly was pleased with his loss. Without that special tile I may have a chance to beat him at a game. Zuko had noticed the grin on my face and rolled his eyes at me. He told me to not hold my breath, because anyone could beat me at Pai Sho. I pouted and crossed my arms with a huff.

To my relief, Zuko agreed that I could walk into the fisher village with Iroh and him. I was thrilled and ecstatic. He made me change back into my Fire Nation dress. I understood the reason why: A Water Tribe girl journeying with two Fire Nation men would be strange and earn unwanted attention.

The ramp lowered a few minutes after we reached the dock. With thrill, I had to do all I could to not run ahead. Zuko noticed my eagerness and grabbed my shoulder to slow me down. He didn't want me tripping on the ramp and breaking my nose probably. Once we hit the market place, Iroh quickly shoved the two of us off to have fun. Three guards followed us as we made our way through the crowded streets of the village.

We stopped at numerous stalls, and I would point out something exciting to Zuko at each one. He didn't really seem amused by the object, but I could tell he was amused by my reactions. We saw so many foreign objects and goods: there was pottery of numerous colors; jewelry I'd only dreamed about; clothes from all nations; entertainment acts on the corners of the streets (one being a man juggling swords); and don't even get me started on the décor of pretty statues and golden nick-knacks.

"This place has everything!" I grabbed Zuko's sleeve to stop him from walking. "Look, Zuko! There's a Pipa like Jee has!" I pointed at everything, feeling so light and free at the new world around me. "Oh! Check out those Earth Kingdom swords!" We even stopped at a jewelry stand where I pointed at a choker. "Hey! That necklace is similar to my sister's!" It was an Earth Kingdom charm, but the choker wasn't too different apart from the green color.

At the thought, I felt my smile immediately waver. Zuko noticed my sudden change, and I felt him press his hand on my shoulder to comfort me. "Come on. We should start heading back to find Iroh. He's probably done searching by now." As Zuko carted me from the stand, I looked back at the necklace feeling my stomach twist a little in pain.

Katara… I wanted to see her… It had been so long...

As we headed back in the general area we left Iroh, I saw Zuko shoot me a concerned gaze. He didn't comment though on my mood, knowing perfectly well why I'd gone quiet with dismay all of the sudden.

"Zuko! Crystal!" Iroh's calls made us both jump. We turned to see the older man heading towards us with excitement. "How is your shopping going? I still have some stuff to pick up, so I'll need another hour."

Zuko slapped his forehead. "Another hour?! What could you possibly need to buy?! Have you even found a new Lotus Tile?"

Iroh smiled. "Patience always brings fortune."

"So that's a no?"

He nodded to his nephew. "Just one more hour."

Zuko scowled. "Fine." He lightly shoved me towards Iroh. "Go with him for a while. I need to do something."

I was puzzled by Zuko's sudden action, and I watched him head away back into the market. The three guards, who had been on our tail for the last hour, quickly followed him to protect him. Once he was gone, Iroh placed a fatherly hand on my shoulder. "Come along, Crystal. We still have many stalls to check still."

Without much of a choice, I followed the man to help him with his shopping.

Zuko POV

Standing at a stall with numerous necklaces and bracelets, I felt heavily consumed by the endless choices before me. What was it with women and jewelry? Crossing my arms, I felt uncertain as I stared at the objects sprawled across the counter top. The old woman behind the counter watched me curiously as I picked up a necklace, sighed heavily, and placed it back down.

What was I doing? Did she even like jewelry?

The guards behind me snickered, and I turned my head sharply to glare at them. They'd been watching me for the last ten minutes, and they were amused by my struggles. When they saw my heated gaze it quickly shut them up.

"Let me guess… A lover?"

The old woman spoke up out of nowhere. I jerked my head back towards her feeling my cheeks burn. "No," I defended. "We're just friends."

She smiled wisely, her lips causing more wrinkles on her cracked skin. She walked with a cane and had white hair. She was definitely of the Earth Nation, but she appeared to hold no prejudice towards my Fire Nation appearance. It appeared this port was pretty well mixed with Fire Nation and Earth Nation citizens.

"Friends, huh?" She looked deep into my eyes with her glazed green ones. "Most friends don't shop as hard as you've been young man." She looked over her selection to assist me. "No matter… What you need is something not too big, but not too small." Her crinkled hand reached forward and picked up something from the table. She inspected the necklace for a moment, and then placed it back down. "Something that represents her."

I stared back at the counter, troubled by her words. Something that represents her…?

My eyes scanned over the counter-top once again, my brows furrowed. Like I knew what represented her! However, after scanning the wide array of jewels, I found it: a golden chained necklace with a blue crystal stone. My hand picked up the piece, and I held it in my palm. It was light and cool against my skin. The stone was cut smooth, and was transparent, illuminating some light fragments on my skin. It was definitely made for her.

"Friends, huh? I see," the old woman spoke again. "That there is a special gem. It was traded to me by some men from up north. They were informed it was made by a man of the Northern Water Tribe. It's a beautiful find, don't you think."

"It's perfect," I said softly.

After I paid the woman, she gently folded the necklace in a piece of cloth so it wouldn't become damaged. "I hope your friend enjoys it," the woman spoke.

Holding the purchase, I heard the guards snicker behind me again from the woman's assumption. My face reddened, I scowled, and turned sharply on my heel.

"She is just a friend," I snapped again, stomping away.

Keeping my gaze from the annoying men who whispered behind me, I made my way back through the market to find my Uncle and Crystal once again.

Friend… just a friend…

My heart tightened with an emotion I couldn't describe.

Crystal POV

"Iroh… Maybe this place has no Lotus Tiles."

I followed the old man to another stall as we continued through the market place. We'd been to ten already, and so far he had made a purchase at each one. It amazed me by how much money this man seemed to have. If I were journeying with the Avatar, I was pretty sure we'd have to eat wild berries or find a way to earn our food. I could indeed tell I was walking with royalty as he bought different items he had absolutely no need for.

"Don't lose hope, Crystal! If you desire something enough, the wind will blow it your way!"

Rolling my eyes, I crossed my arms and looked up at the sky. This man had way too much hope.

We were just reaching what felt like our thirtieth stand when a voice made us both jump.

"Uncle! Your times up!"

Iroh sighed in defeat, turning towards his nephew who was steadily approaching us. He pouted. "Very well, Zuko. I've checked all the shops on this pier. Not a lotus tile in the entire marketplace."

The young prince scowled. "Well then, it's good to know this trip was a complete waste of time for everyone!"

The guards who followed behind Zuko snickered suddenly. Zuko growled and shot a glare back at them. They shut up, but I saw they were amused about something. They left us to help the others who were carrying supplies on the ship. The crew members were also carrying Iroh's newest finds as well.

"Quite the contrary," Iroh calmly spoke to respond to Zuko. "I always say the only thing better than finding something you were looking for, is finding something you weren't looking for at a great bargain!"

Zuko stared at the parade of men and their bundles with disbelief. "You bought a Tsungi Horn?"

Iroh beamed. "For music night on the ship! Now… if we only had some woodwinds."

As Iroh walked off again to continue shopping (which Zuko growled about but didn't protest) I asked with curiosity, "Where'd you run off to?"

At my question, his cheeks turned crimson and he fell quiet in what appeared to be embarrassment. He quickly covered it up though. "Just went back to the ship for a little bit. These markets make me claustrophobic." He walked off then to follow Iroh. I furrowed my brows in question. He hadn't come from the direction of the ship… I shook the thought and quickly followed behind him.

We walked along the pier for a little bit. Iroh was eager to see if maybe there were some shops on the outskirts we'd missed. Just as we started to walk past a giant wooden ship anchored by the pier, I bumped into someone tall and thin. The man who bumped into me just stood there as I fell back onto the ground due to my clumsy nature. When I looked up at him, I was surprised by his appearance.

He was a gangly man, with sun bleached skin and salt worn clothing. He had long brown hair that he kept out of his face with a green headband, dark eyes that stared down at me amazed, and a split mustache. A hoop earring was pierced through his earlobe.

"Wha- you!" He reached down and grabbed me by my arm hard. I gasped as he jerked me up. "Where's the scroll!"

I was shocked by his sudden fury. What the spirits was this man talking about?

He shook me painfully, and yelled again, spitting in my face. "Answer me you Water Tribe wench! Ya think ya can change clothing and I won't recognize ya!"

"Oh! Wait," another man snapped. This one was heavy-set with a topknot and nose ring. "Look at dat scar! It ain't da thief!"

The man named Oh, stopped shaking me and stared at my scar with surprise. However, before he let me go, another hand grabbed his arm hard and jerked him away from me.

"Don't touch her!" Zuko had noticed my skirmish finally and came to my rescue. He pulled me away from the two men and jerked me behind him. Iroh quickly joined us, coming over to make sure I was alright. I gave him a small nod. I was just shaken, and my arm ached horribly from the stranger's painful yank. Iroh placed a hand on my shoulder for comfort.

The gangly pirate quickly placed his hands together and bowed slightly. "My mistake gents. I thought she was someone else."

Zuko growled. His hand was still on my elbow probably to calm his own rage.

Iroh spoke up with his words of wisdom. "Mistakes can cost a man."

The heavier man spoke up again. "Me apologies fer my comrade 'ere. Could we interest ye all in some foreign trade goodies? We'd be glad ta offer ye a discount fer bein' rough on da lass."

Zuko went to protest, but Iroh was interested.

"Wonderful! I'd love to see your finds!"

As the two men led Iroh towards the ship, Zuko and I stayed back for a moment.

"Stupid pirates," Zuko muttered.

I looked at the men in surprise. Pirates? I'd only heard campfire tales. I didn't realize pirates were actually a thing.

He turned back to me then, grabbing both of my shoulders to look me over with worry. "Are you alright? They didn't hurt you, did they?"

His concern surprised me. I smiled weakly. "I'm fine. Just a little shaken up, but thanks to you I'm unscathed."

This seemed to offer him some relief.

"Come on you two! Last stop! I promise!"

At Iroh's call, the two of us made our way up the ship ramp with uncertainty; neither one of us wanted to be on a ship owned by these pirates. Following the men through the ship, I fell in thought as I rubbed my aching arm. Why had the pirate grabbed me so suddenly? He mistook me for someone, but who could that be?

It hit me then. Katara! He thought I was Katara! My heart ached as I realized this, and I looked at the two pirates who led us down a long hall to a wooden door.

Where's the scroll…?

The pirate accused me of stealing from him. I could only assume Katara had stolen something from them then. My sister wasn't usually a thief. What the spirits was she thinking, stealing from a couple of men with tempers and weapons? She was too rash for her own good!

Of course, I wasn't much different. I attacked Zuko at the South Pole, revealed my waterbending, and got myself taken prisoner. I was pretty rash too...

We ended up inside a small dim room packed with numerous items from all over the world. A man with a big hat and a strange bird sat at a desk tapping his finger impatiently. As Iroh started to browse the merchandise, I stayed glued to Zuko's side from fear. I didn't want to give the men an opportunity to grab me again. Zuko noticed my discomfort and kept a gentle hand on my arm.

"Captain," Oh suddenly said. "We lost the Water Tribe girl and the little bald monk she was traveling with."

These words caused Zuko to spin on his heel towards the three men in the room. He left my side and rushed over. "This monk, did he have an arrow on his head?"

My eyes widened. I stood in place watching the scene with terror. Give it a rest… Just give it a rest already!

"Ay…" the captain answered. "Why do ya ask?"

Zuko seemed eager and determined. "Let's just say, it is important that I capture that kid."

The pirate captain perked up. He stood from his desk so he was eye level to Zuko. "You have a proposition for me I assume?"

Iroh was still gazing at a creepy monkey statue as Zuko had his conversation. I stood as still as I possibly could, not wanting to draw an ounce of attention to myself.

"I assume you're after these kids for something. I'll gather my men and assist you in their capture. Once we have the water tribe kids and boy you'll be given back what belongs to you."

"So," the pirate began in contemplation. "I get my scroll back, and you get the monk boy. Seems fair… What about the Water Tribe brats though?"

My breath hitched. What would Zuko say? He didn't really need Sokka or Katara, so he could easily hand them over to the pirates.

"I can deal with them. They'll be locked right up with the monk boy."

Though I was relieved Zuko wouldn't hand them over to the pirates, I cringed at the thought of my family in a cell. Please don't catch them… please don't catch them…

"Very well… Get me my scroll back and the kids are yours."

The two sealed their agreement.

The rest of the conversation consisted of a time and location to meet. Zuko wanted to return to the ship so he could gather some of his men and also get his steamboat. The Captain explained that the kids were last seen flying away along the river, and the river wasn't very wide. Since the pirate ship was small, and Zuko's steamboat was smaller, they decided that was the best course of action to take.

While they spoke, Iroh decided on his purchase and paid the captain for the monkey statue. Zuko and the captain both grimaced at the awful purchase, but the pirate didn't persuade Iroh not to get it.

Eventually, the pirate captain noticed me at last, standing in the dark of the ship. "Who's that?"

Zuko stepped over to me. "A friend. She won't be joining us in our current engagement."

Friend? Though I knew I should be upset for not being able to see my family, I felt elated. Zuko did see me as his friend!

"A friend…" The captain looked me over with question. "Ya look pretty familiar. You don't happen to be related to these brats were chasin do ya?"

At first I wanted to say yes, because I wanted to tell this pirate over and over again to leave my family alone. However, instead I crossed my arms and looked away. My instinct told me that if this Captain found out my relation to Sokka and Katara, he'd want to use me as bait. That was the last thing I needed.

"No," I calmly spoke. "I don't know them."

The Captain looked like he wanted to pry further, seeing my similarities to Katara, but instead he shrugged it off.

About ten minutes later we were back on the ship, and Iroh went off to gather some men for the trip down river. As he did that, Zuko escorted me back to his room. We walked for a few minutes in silence, and I knew Zuko was deep in thought. We were just approaching the hall to our room, when Zuko finally broke the silence.

"I'm just curious… Why did you lie to him… about knowing the Water Tribe kids?"

I sighed heavily. "If he found out the water tribe kids were my brother and sister, he would've used me to lure them in. I have no desire to be used as bait."

Zuko seemed to take in what I spoke, his eyes staring at the floor as we walked along.

"You always worry about them…" He glanced towards me. "From the very first day I met you, all you've thought about is keeping them safe… Do you ever take time to worry about yourself?"

This time I stopped walking. Zuko had taken a few steps in front of me, but came to a halt when he noticed my falter. Looking back at me, I noticed he was waiting patiently for my answer. His eyes didn't move from my gaze. My hand instinctively went to rub my arm awkwardly, but as soon as I moved my arm I winced as it shot with pain. The gangly pirate had bruised me up when he grabbed me earlier. Luckily, Zuko didn't seem to notice.

"No… not really," I admitted. "I honestly don't care much what happens to me… I just want them to be okay. I guess as long as they're okay I have nothing to be anxious about."

"Even though you're under Fire Nation custody?"

I smiled. "It's not all that bad. So far you and your men haven't done anything to hurt me. I'm alive, so worrying about my situation won't do me any good. Things could be much worse."

Zuko stepped over suddenly, and I was shocked when his hand reached to gently grab my arm. He pulled me a step closer and examined the spot where a hand shaped bruise was starting to form. "Yeah… Your arm could be broken by pirates."

My ears burned and my cheeks flushed from the concern he was sending towards me. Zuko cared about me… He was upset I got hurt on his watch…

He really did see me as a friend.

Hanging my head, I placed my free hand over his grasp. "I'm okay… I've been through worse. A little bruise is nothing."

His amber eyes shot to my sky blue, and then his gaze trailed to the scar on my right cheekbone. When his free hand suddenly reached up and caressed my scarred cheek, I was frozen in shock. His hand was so warm, and his touch sent pleasing shivers down my spine. His breath was suddenly on my nose, and I felt my breathing hitch at the contact we were making.

What was this? Why did I feel so calm and anxious at the same time?

My eyes shut, and I took my free hand to place it over Zuko's. His hand was so soft… Even though he was so strong, the feel of his skin felt good on my own.

He sighed heavily, and I felt his hold on my arm tighten as if he were afraid I'd disappear. He leaned closer, and I opened my eyes to see his deep gold were right in my line of sight. "What are you doing to me… why do I care so much…?" His questions weren't meant to be answered. I knew he was directing them more to himself.

I wanted him to hold me like that longer, but then my senses returned to me.

What was I doing? Zuko was about to go on a mission to capture my family and the Avatar. Zuko was trying to take away the world's last hope. I couldn't feel this way. If my people saw me in this current position, they would scold me and lock me up for losing my head.

Enemy… Zuko was the enemy…

Grabbing his hand, I pulled him away from my scar. My sudden movement made him wake up from his confusion. He quickly jerked away, stepping back to give us some space. In the process we broke contact, and I stepped back to space us out some more. My skin still tingled from his touch though, and my heart ached to feel his warmth again.

What was he doing to me? Why did I care so much?

Clearing my throat, I ran a hand through my hair to try and shove away the awkward air between us. "We should get to our room. You're due to meet back up with the pirates in a few hours. You don't want to keep them waiting."

He nodded, his face twisted and puzzled as he tried to gather in his own thoughts what had gotten into him. We returned to our room in silence, the both of us trying to understand what we were feeling.

Zuko POV

"Tell me where he is and I won't hurt you or your brother."

"Go jump in a river!"

I cringed as I stood in front of the very angry waterbender who I'd ordered my men to tie to a tree. It had been eight hours since I'd left Crystal chained up in our room. My men and I met up with the pirates very early in the morning. The half-moon above was starting to lower in the sky, but we still had hours before sunrise. It took us all of two hours to head down river, and very easily we found Crystal's sister on the bank. The young waterbender was shouting so much, that we were able to find her exact location in minutes.

It took me all of twenty minutes to sneak on shore with the pirates. We surrounded the girl, who frantically tried to find a place to run. She eventually ran right towards me, and I grabbed her to restrain her. I was surprised to find that even though she was close to Crystal's height, she was much feistier than her older sister. It took me and three other men to apprehend her, and some extra men to tie her to the nearest tree. Once I pried the scroll from her hand, I saw the pirates around me were eager to have it back. I would first use it to get them to do my bidding.

The girl's stubborn sass still hung in my ears as I watched her struggle in her rope restraints. I inched towards her to try and be reasonable. There was one way I could encourage her, and I reached for the item inside my armor.

"Try to understand, I need to capture the Avatar to restore something I've lost... my honor. Perhaps in exchange I can restore something you've lost." I stepped beside her and held the necklace so it was lined near her neck. The necklace was a blue choker that held a silver charm with water swirl patterns.

Her eyes widened in horror, and I saw tears start to form. She grit her teeth, seething with fury. "My mother's necklace!"

Her mother's necklace…? This necklace once belonged to Crystal's mom?

My hand lowered but I tried to keep my cool. My other hand could still feel the earlier warmth of Crystal's skin as I had pressed against her scar gently. Quickly, I shook off the feeling. There was no time to think about her. I had to find the Avatar.

"How did you get that?"

The girl's accusing eyes almost shot through me like daggers. I tried to keep my cool. "I didn't steal it, if that's what you're wondering. Tell me where he is!"

She was still stubborn. She snapped with defiance, "No!"

I scowled. My hand jerked her necklace away and placed it back where I'd been storing it.

"Enough of this necklace garbage. You promised the scroll!"

The pirate captain's voice made my brow twitch in frustration. I still wasn't happy with his comrades for injuring Crystal. The bruise on her arm was already prominent by the time I left her to prepare for my mission. Turning to the pirates, I held the scroll up and placed a flame below it. They all jumped forward in terror as I threatened to burn their prize.

"I wonder how much money this is worth? A lot, apparently. Now you help me find what I want, you'll get this back and everyone goes home happy," I was giving the orders finally. "Search the woods for the boy and meet back here."

The pirates scowled in frustration. Their Captain grit his teeth, but didn't argue. "Fine," he spat. Quickly, he and his men walked off into the woods to go find the other two brats.

While they were gone, I saw Uncle looking at our prior captive with curiosity. He was probably picking out her similarities to Crystal. I admit the two looked like sisters, but their features were nowhere near the same. This girl was much straighter in frame than her big sister, and her eyes were aquamarine: Crystal's were azure like the sky.

"Prince Zuko… Perhaps tying this young lady to a tree is a little harsh."

I ignored my uncle. Instead, I looked at the girl who was watching me with burning hatred.

"She'll be fine."

"You wait until I get free you spoiled rich brat! I'm going to show you just how powerful a waterbender can be!"

I grimaced at her words.

"You'll pay for everything! Imprisoning my sister! Tying me to a tree! Trying to hurt Aang! You'll wish you were never born when I'm through with you!"

"On second thought," Uncle muttered. "Perhaps she could stay where she is until she calms down."

She shouted some more. "I hope you all get what you deserve! I won't rest until the Fire Nation is stopped once and for all."

Her shouting got on my last nerve. "Will you please shut up?!"

My sudden shout made her fall silent.

"Jeez! I'm relieved I took Crystal instead of you! At least she doesn't scream my ear off!"

The waterbender in front of me was surprised. Her brows furrowed in confusion.

"You're lucky I haven't gagged you yet!"

"Wait…" She was no longer yelling. Her face was puzzled. "Since when are you on a name basis with my sister?"

Her question took me off guard. I frowned and crossed my arms. Looking away from her, I kicked at some rocks. "Well what do you want me to call her? That is her name."

Silence fell between us. The girl, who I finally recalled was named Katara, was astounded by my words. Finally, after some more pause, she broke the quiet air.

"Wai- wait a second… Don't tell me… You like my sister?!"

Her words surprised me. Uncle choked beside me trying to hide what I could only assume was laughter. My cheeks flared and I scowled.

"Wha- what?! That's ridiculous!" I didn't meet her eyes as I spluttered out denials. "I-I don't like her! Why would I? She- she's just my prisoner! That's all she is!"

Another pause fell between us. I shot my eyes towards her to see her reaction. She wasn't convinced. She was facetious. She burst into laughter and shook her head. "Yo-you like Crystal! Oh spirits! I can't believe this! A spoiled rich pompous Fire Nation brat has fallen for my sister!" She broke into more laughter. "Oh! This is gold!"

I growled stepping forward. My fists clenched in rage. Who did this girl think she was? It wasn't funny! What was so wrong with me liking her sister?

I shook my head. Wait! No Zuko! What are you thinking? You don't actually like her…

Azure eyes filled my thoughts, and I realized then and there why I was so heated by Katara's laughter. I finally understood. I did like her sister… I liked Crystal…

I tried to defend myself. "Shut your mouth you stupid peasant! What's so wrong with that?!"

She stopped laughing. Her face pulled into surprise, then confusion, and finally spite. "What's wrong…? what's wrong?! You're Fire Nation! You're a monster who only wants to capture the world's last hope! You're the enemy! You and my sister could never like one another! She'll only see you as a monster! You're wasting your time!"

I felt my blood boil. "Sorry to burst your bubble, but she told me the other day that I'm not a monster! We're friends!"

Katara narrowed her eyes. "Crystal wouldn't trust a firebender! Not after what your people did to her and our family!"

I was only a pace from the girl and had to do everything I could not to smack her. "You don't know her then!"

She leaned forward. "Of course I do! She's my sister!"

"You do?! You didn't even know she could waterbend until I showed up! Great relationship you have there!"

She fell silent, her eyes wide as the words I shouted started to sink in.

"Prince Zuko!" Uncle grabbed me and pulled me back from the girl. "Enough! I think the both of you need to calm down before anything else is said."

Another moment of silence passed between us. I took in a few breaths to calm my anger. The men around us stood watching the whole scene play out with a mixture of surprise and unease.

"You're right…" The sudden voice behind me took me off guard. I turned back to the girl with surprise. She hung her head, and I saw her eyes start to water. "I had my suspicions, but I didn't know… I'll never understand why she didn't tell me or Sokka. I can't fathom why she would keep such a gift a secret from the rest of us. I wish I'd known… Then maybe I could've stopped her." She looked up at me with determination. "You have your chance to have two waterbenders… why haven't you taken me to the ship already?"

I grimaced. My eyes shot to Uncle, the rest of my men, and then back to her. I let out a heavy breath. "Because of Crystal… I promised her I wasn't after you and your brother. The only one I want is the Avatar. Once I have him, and the pirates go on their way, you and your brother will be free to go."

She was amazed by my words. "You'd do that… for my sister?"

I nodded. "I'm not a monster… I'll always keep my word."

She went speechless. She didn't know what to say. She hung her head in defeat.

Crystal POV

"Ha! I win again!"

Jiho growled and tossed his tiles down in irritation. "How are you so good at this game?"

"It's all about luck!"

The older man in front of me couldn't help but smile. "Then I'm very unlucky."

The sunrise had come two hours ago, and without much choice I sat in my room bored out of my mind. My good friend Jiho, the ship cook, arrived to give me some breakfast and tea. When he saw how bored I'd become he insisted that he could give me company for a little bit. That little bit turned into two hours of playing card games and chatting about anything we could think of.

As I went to pick up the wooden cards to distribute them again, I frowned as worries tried to flow through me. Zuko and his uncle had been gone all night, and I had no clue if my family and Aang were still walking around free. I was worried about them, and I was also worried for Zuko and Iroh. I just needed to know what was going on.

"So tell me more about this special steamed Seal Jerky recipe. Do you think the crew would like it?"

I started to hand out the cards again. "I'm not sure. Maybe I can serve it to the crew one day and see. I doubt you have seal jerky lying around though."

He smiled. "Yeah. Mainly just duck and fish."

I nodded. "Well… My family do enjoy my salted fish recipe. Maybe I could give that one a shot one day."

"You like to cook then?"

A blush pulled on my cheeks. "Yeah… I took over when my mom died. It was a good distraction."

Jiho took this in. Then his eyes lit up. "I have an idea! You can help me cook dinner for the crew tomorrow night!"

His words took me off guard. "You… you want me to cook?" I ran a hand through my hair in uncertainty. "I don't know… I've never cooked for so many before."

He waved me off. "Not a problem. I'll be there to help."

His words reassured me. I smiled. "Okay. I'd be glad to cook dinner for everyone. It can be my way to thank them for their kindness."

We started to play cards again. As we did, I noticed Jiho looked like he wanted to say something. After a few minutes, he finally spoke. "You've definitely changed my views, Miss Crystal." I looked at him with question. He didn't meet my gaze. "Growing up, my father taught me that the people of the Water Tribe were weak and powerless humans who needed to be conquered and rectified. However, you show me and many others on this ship that you aren't as frail as we were made to believe. I've met many women at war, but none of them have that burning determination I see whenever I look your way. You're a fighter, Crystal. I respect you for that."

I was flustered by his praise. "Thanks..."

"Also, you're the first person I've ever seen stand up to Prince Zuko. That was some spunk that day you attacked him. He didn't expect it."

"Yeah… It's strange how one minute I want to pound his face into the floor, and the next I'm worried about him."

Jiho nodded. "Yes… Love works in mysterious ways."

I'd gone to place a card down but stopped. My breathing hitched as I took in his words. "Love?"

He smiled. "Oh. Sorry. I should've said strong friendship. I suppose you and the young prince haven't quite reached that stage." He looked at the card I held midair. "Your turn."

I placed the card down, but was still puzzled by his words. "Zuko and I aren't like that… We're just friends. Nothing more."

"Hmm…" Jiho tapped his chin. He didn't take his turn. "I see." He placed a card down finally. "Well you tell that to General Iroh, because he's convinced there's something growing between the two of you."

"Yeah," I spoke. My voice was tight. "Friendship."

He only smiled with knowing. He placed another card down. "I win."

My eyes widened and I looked down at the cards in front of us. He did win.

The door to the room suddenly opened, and Zuko came in looking both disappointed and exhausted. When he stepped in, he was surprised to see Jiho in the room but didn't snap at him like he usually did with the crew. Instead, he ordered Jiho to return to his duties in a tired voice. The man quickly stood and bowed to the young prince. When he left the room, he turned as he closed the door to wave at me. I waved back still puzzled by our prior conversation. Finally, I was alone and turned to Zuko with question.

"So… How'd it go?"

He sighed heavily. He started to take off his armor as he answered. "Let's just say, your brother has a big mouth."

He tried to take his upper armor off, but I could tell he was struggling to untie the strings on both sides. Getting up from where I sat, I walked over to help him. He jumped a bit when he felt my hand brush his to the side. I quickly undid the knot on his right side. "What did Sokka do this time?"

He stood still as I moved to his other side to help him with the other knot. Zuko breathed heavily. "He told the pirates that the boy I wanted to capture was the Avatar. When the pirates found out, they wanted him for themselves. We had to fight it out, and in the end I lost both the Avatar and my steamboat."

The knot was undone, and Zuko finally managed to take off his upper armor. As he did so, I stepped back feeling for some strange reason sorry for his loss. I knew I was just sorry he was so upset. I tried to comfort him. "You tried… That's all that matters."

He hung his head some more, and I saw his shoulders slump. He looked so tired. He looked broken. "I failed… All I do is fail…"

My heart ached for Zuko and his pain. I wanted to hug him. I wanted to reassure him. The sadness he let off only made me yearn for him to be happy again.

But he's the enemy… I shouldn't care… He tried to go after the Avatar today… He only wants his honor…

The young man in front of me shut his eyes and his body shook. He was trying not to crumble. I'd seen this emotion before, through my own brother Sokka. After my mother died and father left us, I found Sokka at the edge of the village staring off into the sea. Just like Zuko, he trembled and shut his eyes tight in agony. He blamed himself for mother's death and not being strong enough to join the warriors to fight. I'd hugged him and reassured him that he was strong enough to protect the tribe where he stood. I knew what I had to do...

Stepping in front of Zuko, I reached my arms around his upper body and pressed my face into his trembling shoulder. He was taller than me, so he easily placed his face into my hair. He slowly wrapped his arms around me as well, and I was surprised at the sudden warmth that consumed me. He still shook, and I felt a few drops of salt water as tears slid down his cheeks. I'd never seen Zuko cry, so seeing it for the first time was foreign to me. It was a huge reveal though. It taught me that Zuko wasn't any less human than me. He hurt just like any other man in the world.

"Hey… It's okay," I promised. "At least you haven't given up… The strongest must go through numerous obstacles before they can reach victory."

Zuko muttered, "You've been talking to Uncle too much."

I frowned. "No… My father said that."

He fell silent for a moment, and I could tell he was calming himself. He still held me close though, as if I was the only thing keeping him together. I didn't let him go, knowing he needed the comfort. He was alone… He had no one to comfort him except for Iroh. I didn't want him to feel like he had to face his pain on his own.

My heart wanted him to be happy.

"You're so strange…" he whispered suddenly. I felt him still press his face to my hair. "Your brother and sister would lose it if they saw us now. I'm the enemy."

"You're my friend… This is what friends do. They comfort one another."

He pulled away slightly, and I felt his hands move from my body to my shoulders. He still showed moisture in his eyes, but I could tell he wasn't going to cry anymore in front of me. "Why are you so kind to me, after everything I've done to you?"

His question took me off guard. I rubbed the back of my neck, wondering the same thing. "I don't know… I suppose it's because no matter how much I want to dislike you, something stops me from doing so. I know… horrible explanation. I can't really explain… I've been so confused..."

He nodded and smiled weakly.

I grabbed his wrist then, but only to comfort him some more. "You should get some sleep. Rest will make you feel ten times better." I stepped away from him. "A man needs his rest, as your uncle always says."

He listened to me. Ten minutes later, Zuko stripped off his shirt and his boots. Then the next thing I knew he was out cold on his cot. He'd kindly taken off my ankle cuff before he went to sleep, so I was free to leave the cabin and give him some quiet. Before I left, I couldn't help but kneel beside him for a moment. My eyes scanned his face, which was smooth and young. He slept with exhaustion, and I grabbed the blanket that he didn't have the energy to pull over him. Carefully, I placed the blanket over him like I used to do with Sokka when he was upset or sick.

"Sweet dreams, Prince Zuko."

Silently, I stood and made my way out of the room, shutting the door behind.