Disclaimer: Avatar the Last Airbender copyright Dante Dimartino, Brian Konietzko and Nickelodeon Studios.


She knew this sound. A strong steady thumping beat steadily against her ear. Instinctively she curled closer to it, comforted by the familiar rhythm. Pleasant warmth surrounded her, lulling her into a light sleep. A soft, contented sigh escaped her lips.

Her breathing had become easier. She realized her rescuer must have moved them to a safer part of the mine. Forcing heavy eyelids open, she tried again to plead for help. Her request died on her lips, shock stealing her breath as an all too familiar profile gazed sternly ahead. "Zuko?"

The boy grinned. "Try again Fire Lord."

"Li!"