Understanding the Issues
Zuko waited outside of his uncle's tent for a long moment. The last time they saw one another Zuko was leaving him to betrayal and death. Shame burned on his face as he replayed his failings in the cavern and moment of weakness. He didn't know how his uncle could forgive him after this. This wasn't the first time he abandoned his uncle who had been more like a father to him than his own.
He knew he couldn't waste another minute. Even if his uncle didn't forgive him it wouldn't stop him from apologizing and begging for his forgiveness. He opened the tent flap and went in.
Hours later, Katara went to Zuko's uncle's tent to announce a meeting. They were finalizing their strategies and needed the Grand Lotus to oversee them. Katara knocked on the tent pole then entered.
"Excuse me, General Iroh? You are needed in the council tent." She said stealing a glance at Zuko who looked both relieved and placid for once. She smiled gently. Things went well between them. Iroh eyed the waterbender looking at his nephew curiously. This is a new development.
"Ah, young lady, I was told you have healing abilities. My nephew complained of pain in his side earlier. Would you mind taking a look to see what it could be?" he asked sweetly. Katara smiled genuinely.
"Of course, General Iroh. I'd be glad to." Katara turned to Zuko with her brows furrowed.
"Zuko, why didn't you tell me you were in pain?" She asked with concern. Zuko shrugged.
"I think this is just Uncle's way of kicking us out. I didn't feel anything until he hugged me," he said with a chuckle. As they left the tent, Iroh noticed how Zuko's hand rested protectively on the Water Tribe girl's back and he hummed. Definitely a new development. He would have to invite the young lady to tea very soon.
Within a day the teams were mobilized to go to the Earth kingdom forests where blimps were poised to raze the land with fire. Sokka, Suki and Toph were on that mission. Iroh and the White Lotus team would reclaim the City of Ba Sing Se for the Earth Kingdom and Katara and Zuko would go put a stop to Azula's coronation as Fire Lord and retake the Caldera for the Fire Nation.
The odds were overwhelming, but this world coalition had to believe that destiny was with them. The blazing red comet was already in the distance preparing to streak overhead. They all gave one another a final look knowing that it may be the last time they see each other alive. The love between them all was strong, and they had to believe in each other's strength. No one was sure of what Aang would do but they had to hope he would see his task through to the end.