Chapter 3: Out of the Frying Pan
Ciara's eyes fluttered open, the glare of the torches burning her eyes. She gave out a soft groan in pain, feeling hot tears fill her eyes. Her hand came up and swiped at her eyes, leaving her eyes now clear from the salty tears. Ciara opened her eyes, soon adjusting to the light. It was night, the window beside her revealing the sun's sister, who peered down at her encouragingly.
Footsteps soon broke through the silence, making her wince at every step. Ciara soon realized where she was, a prison cell. "I never really thought I would ever be in one of these." she muttered in disgust but yet awe, everything coming back to her. The man, he acted odd toward her… My only guess is that he wants something that's in my possession. But all I have is a few coins, and that pendant. Of course! The pendant!
The footsteps stopped, the silence and stillness making her hold her breath, a sudden fear filling her stomach. A lock turned slowly, the click sounding like cymbals crashing together before her ear. Ciara stood up silently, pressing her back against the cold steel wall. The door opened slowly, revealing a tall young man. He bore the colors of the fire nation and also it seemed a scar on his left eye. The man smiled and stepped forward, "So, I never caught your real name." His voice was smooth but filled with arrogance, making something in Ciara more eager to leave this place.
"Ciara, and I am afraid I never caught your name." Ciara replied, her hands now clasped behind her back. The man nodded slightly, before replying with a smirk, "Zuko, Prince of the Fire Nation." Ciara's heart sank in despair, the Fire Nation. Which means a hundred of soldiers are going to deliver be to his father… What a spoiled brat, smirking and strutting around…
Then is struck her, the door was open. A small grin crept on her face, her pale green eyes shinning with mischief and malice. "So, dear prince, what is it you want from me?" she asked innocently. Zuko smiled, "I believe it is in your pocket." He walked forward slightly, now slightly in front of the door. Ciara breathed out slowly, before raising her hand and releasing a hungry flame.
Zuko blocked, so many years of training making him have quick reflexes. But when he opened his eyes, she was gone. "Damn." he cursed, quickly making his way after her. Of all the stupid things I did, this is far by the worst.
Ciara was soon outside on the deck, the rush of cold air slapping her face. She winced but continued, only to be stopped by a dozen of gruesome and angry guards. Ciara watched their breaths float in the icy cold air, making everything seem so unreal like a dream. She secretly wished this was just a bad dream, but she knew that was unlikely.
Time seemed to slow down, as the guards rushed toward her, their breaths trailing behind them. Ciara felt herself dodge a spear that was aimed at her neck; she could see the veins popping on the guard's neck. Then someone turned it back to normal, everything was going back to it's quick pace. Ciara gave a low sweeping kick, a wave of fire rushing toward the guards. They fell back slowly, their yelps echoing through the air.
Yells, shouts, and fire filled the sky once more. Ciara was convinced she was back at the village she burned, reliving her crime. But soon she was shook out of that scene and brought back to the ship she was on. Ciara turned around to see a flame coming toward her, she leaped out of the way, but it was too late. The flame brushed against her bare arm, sending continuous waves of pain through her body.
Zuko gave a smug grin, seeing that he had struck her accurately. "Well, Ciara, are you ready to give up?" he asked, walking up slowly toward her. Ciara backed up, feeling the railing touch her back. The gentle roar of the water beckoned her, promising to give her safety and peace. Ciara nodded wearily to its call. Zuko smiled, so she agreed to give up, good. Maybe she can become one of my own warriors? She does have talent…
Ciara looked up at Zuko, they were now face to face. "Give up?" she asked softly, giving him a soft smile. "I think not." she continued, soon turning toward the water. Ciara closed her eyes, her arm still screamed with pain, making her wince every second or so. She quickly climbed on the cold railing, and didn't hesitate to jump of. Zuko watched with disbelief, seeing his only chance of aid to catch the Avatar gone. The splash of water soon filled his ears, which was followed by a series of curses.
Iroh walked toward his nephew, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Why did you let her go? Ah, no need to answer, for I already know. Just promise me that I'll have a granddaughter or grandson before I die, ok?" Iroh smiled, patting his shoulder lightly. Zuko growled angrily, "Uncle! For the last time, I captured her for the pendant!" Iroh laughed, "Whatever you say, Prince Zuko. But just know, this old fox sees all…so no need to hide your feelings. By the way, do you want some tea?" Zuko hissed angrily, "No. Now leave me alone!"