Author's Note: I do not own "Avatar: The Last Airbender" or anything related to it. I do, however, own my characters. If you steal them or borrow them without my "Yes." I will hunt you down. Thank you for your time. And if you do not like this, you don't have to read it! I will not force you or beg you.

Dedication: This story is dedicated to Winter Rose Alchemist. She is my buddy, a sister-figure, and a great person to talk to. This story is for you, WRA (a.k.a. Winter Rose Alchemist)! And to my: readers, reviewers, and friends.

-A Promise Made-

In the dark night, while everyone was asleep, Artymis began packing. She placed everything she would need in a small brown bag that the village had given her. Artymis took a peak outside her room, no one was in sight. She quietly walked out of the building where she, Katara, and Sokka were staying at. Artymis felt followed when she emerged quietly outside, she quickly turned around to see her follower. She didn't see anybody at first, but when she lowered her eyes, she saw Momo.

"Momo!" Artymis whispered, bending down, "You gave me a fright. Don't ever do that again!" She said, Momo stared up at her with curiosity in his big lime eyes. "Stay here, with Katara and Sokka and Appa. You be my little helper, ok?" Momo gave out a low noise then scurried along in the opposite direction. "I'll miss you." Artymis whispered, she got up and turned around and walked towards the village's entrance/exit.

Anduril was waiting for there. He emerged out of the dark trees and lowered his head to be eye-to-eye with Artymis. Artymis slowly stopped in front of him and softly placed a hand over his head. Are you ready, Artymis? he asked.

Artymis took her hand back and turned around to the building where Sokka and Katara would be sleeping. "I'll see you guys later," She whispered. Appa came out from the shadows. Artymis walked up to him and touched his fur on the side. "Appa, please escort Katara and Sokka to the North Pole safely, please?" She asked. Appa nodded and gave out a very low roar in agreement. "Thank you, Appa." Artymis said, she gave Appa one last stroke then turned to Anduril. Ok, she replied, I'm ready.

Very well, Anduril lowered himself down so Artymis could climb on his back.

Artymis gave one last look at the village, then Anduril was off flying through the sky. Appa and the village were getting as small as ants as Artymis and Anduril flew higher. "I left a note to Katara and Sokka. I said we'll meet in the North Pole once I'm done with Avatar Roku. They shouldn't worry." Artymis told Anduril.

They will be, Anduril pointed out, they were above the clouds now.

"They shouldn't, they should know we'll be fine." Artymis said.

I'm not so sure, Anduril disagreed.

Artymis frowned, Anduril!

Alright, Anduril said.

Both of them then talked. They talked of things that had happen 100 years ago, before Artymis found out she was the Avatar and all. Artymis kept reminding Anduril how he would act so over-protective when they would travel to the other three nations. Once, there was a time when Artymis entered the Fire Nation capital and a guy tried to ask her directions to the palace. But, Anduril took it the wrong way and he chased the teenage boy out of the Fire Nation's capital. "This is one of the many reasons why no guy asked a woman for directions," Artymis said back then, and laughed. Artymis slowly began to remember a friend, her best friend, from the Fire nation. She closed her eyes briefly then opened them.

I wonder if he was still alive when the war started, Artymis privately thought. She remembered how she always go there, just as much as she went to Omashu to see Bumi, and play with him. As they grew older, they would be separated since one of them had to go to his parents' tea party or the other had to perform her airbending lessons. But they did indeed have fun. Artymis smiled as she remembered how his face looked liked, when she last saw him. I know now, she thought, that the Fire Nation did start the war. And Prince Zuko - She stopped and sighed, didn't start the war as Zhao had told me. Fire lord Sozan did, and Zuko - I guess - didn't want it or something. Then why is he chasing me? Artymis stopped her thoughts about Zuko there and asked Anduril, Anduril, why does Prince Zuko chase me? What am I to him?

Anduril paused for a second, then answered: Maybe he wants his father to win and since the Avatar is the only one who can stop the Fire Lord, they need to imprison you. And Prince Zuko volunteered, I suppose.

He volunteered? Artymis wondered and shook her head, This doesn't make any sense.

Not everything makes sense, Artymis. Anduril quoted, Remember that?

Artymis remembered and laughed, Oh yeah! I remember! Bumi would say that!

Always did, Artymis felt Anduril smile.

And, the funny thing was, Artymis commented, was that he always was right. Not everything has to make sense. Bumi has unusual ways to see things. It's like he sees it in a way we can't at times.

Don't praise him face-to-face, Anduril said.

Why not? Artymis asked.

He'll began to make a statue of himself! Anduril joked.

Artymis laughed at this. She looked over her shoulder and the land slowly faded away, and they were surrounded by the dark waters of the ocean. Artymis knew she would be in for it when she would stop at the North Pole, there Katara would shout at her out of fury and Sokka would strangle her. Artymis also left a note for the village, saying thank you for their hospitality and her good-bye to them. Her cheeks were light flushed when she remembered her 'good-bye' to 'Shang'. Although it was just a peck, Artymis felt strange every time thinking about it. She shook her head and thought, Stop thinking about it, Art! Stop! She did after a while.

Artymis lifted her hand to pull a lock of her hair behind her ear, she has expected to feel a rose there, but there wasn't. Her face fell, now that she lost her suitor's rose to Zhao, she felt weird. Even though Zhao did lie to her, it felt nice for someone to give her a suitor's rose - and it was her favorite color, lavender. Having a suitor's rose for her, felt nice and loved by someone that she did not think of as a brother or sister. Artymis really wanted to find her rose, all she had now was the golden ring, which was on her right ring finger. Artymis stared at it and moved it so there was a sparkle from the three rubies. She sighed and leaned herself against Anduril's neck.

Anduril? she called out softly.

I know, Anduril answered, Good night, Artymis.

Good night, Anduril. Artymis closed her eyes and fell into a deep sleep with a strange dream as Anduril continued to fly through the sky as a crescent moon was high and shining.

Katara awoke the next morning at sunrise. She yawned and stretched and got out of bed. She blinked and sensed something was missing. Katara looked around the room, her eyes fell on the bed next to her, Artymis' bed. But she wasn't there, instead there was a note. Katara instantly grabbed the note, having a feeling what was written. Her eyes quickly read the words and when she was done, Katara gritted her teeth.

I told her not to go by herself! she thought, while running out of her room, and down the hall to Sokka's. She probably still in the village though, I better check! Katara stopped in her tracks, she opened a nearby window. She quickly scanned the view of the village, Anduril was no where in sight. She growled. Now, she's in for it!

"Sokka!" Katara burst in his room without a knock or warning that she was coming in. She saw Sokka on his bed, under the blankets, snoring. Katara rushed over to the bed's side and began shaking Sokka roughly. "Sokka!" A groan came from under the blankets. "Get up!" Katara yelled, "Wake up!"

"Wha...What is it?" Sokka lifted his head, his eyes still tired.

"It's Artymis!" Katara answered, her voice loud.

"What did Art do this time?" Sokka asked while yawning, oblivious to the urgency in his sister's voice.

"Artymis isn't here!" Katara said.

"That's nice." Sokka muttered, he turned over, closing his eyes. A second later he opened his eyes in shock, sat up, and faced his sister. "What!"

Katara explained to her brother about Artymis' note. When she was done, she waited for Sokka to say something, he didn't. "Well?" She asked, impatient.

"Hang on, Katara!" Sokka said, thinking really hard.

"Hang on?" Katara repeated, "Hang on!" She cried out. "Artymis could be in the Fire Lord's grasp right now. She could be dying!"

"I know," Sokka muttered, he turned to his sister with a serious face. "And that's why we have to - as much I hate to, and fear to - go inside the Fire Nation and to the island."

Katara seemed satisfied with this answer. "At least, Artymis left us Appa."

"That's why I'm going to the Fire Nation with less resistance." Sokka said. Katara gaped and hit her brother. "Ow!" Sokka rubbed his head. "What was that for?"

"Using Appa as a shield!" Katara shouted, she turned on her heel and marched away. "Get ready!" She order over her shoulder and left the room, leaving Sokka shaking from fear.

Half an hour later, Appa was ready with Momo, and Katara and Sokka receiving a farewell from the village leader.

"I hope our hospitality has given you strength." The village leader said, "But, it did not please Avatar Artymis?"

"No! No!" Katara answer quickly, "It's just, Artymis didn't want anyone to know or interfere with her leaving to the Fire Nation to Avatar Roku's temple. She did say she appreciated your hospitality in her good-bye note."

"Artymis is... complicated." Sokka explained, "She doesn't like anyone getting hurt."

"Please, don't take her leave as a bad thing." Katara said.

The village leader bowed his head, "Nevertheless, we all wish both of you have a safe journey."

Sokka and Katara smiled, "Thank you."

"Farewell." The village leader said, when he lifted his head and looked behind them, he gasped.

Katara and Sokka quickly turned around and they took a step back. Prince Zuko had just entered the village, along with his uncle. And Prince Zuko didn't look so happy. Katara reached over to her belt where a flasket of water would be to perform waterbending and Sokka reached behind his back to his boomerang. Zuko saw their intentions, and narrowed his eyes.

"What do you want?" Sokka asked, his eyes hard.

"Well, peasants are more ruder than I thought they be." Zuko said.

"Don't change the subject!" Katara said, "Just tell us what you want? This village is of no interest to you!"

"Actually," Zuko said, "It does. The Avatar was here."

Katara blinked. How'd he know that? She quickly responded, "So what if she was? Artymis isn't here anymore - she left!"

"You're too late, scar-head!" Sokka smirked, enjoying the new nickname he had given the Fire Prince.

Apparently, Zuko didn't think the nickname was so funny. He glared at them, "If the Avatar isn't here - then where is she?" He then added, "Or I'll burn down this village!"

"No, you won't!" Katara said fiercely.

"And who's gonna stop me?" Zuko asked, it really wasn't a question. The Avatar has said she would leave, but where? he thought angrily."You peasants?" He asked, almost answering his own question.

"That's it!" Sokka yelled, he was about to hurl his boomerang at the prince, when a tail out of nowhere came sweeping the prince, and his uncle. "Appa!" Sokka cried out, looking up to Appa, who growled.

"Both of you - go!" The village leader urged.

"But what about - " Katara began.

"Go!" The village leader shouted.

Katara glanced a worry look and bowed her head. She climbed on Appa, along with Sokka, and both settled down. Katara grabbed Appa's reins. "Come on, Appa - fly!" Even though she knew that wasn't you say to Appa for him to go, Appa took off into the sky. He didn't need telling twice, seeing that the Fire prince was getting back on his feet. "Be careful!" Katara shouted to the village as they flew away.

"Thank you!" Sokka shouted, he turned to Momo who was asleep. "Lucky one," Sokka muttered under his breath.

"Come on, Appa!" Katara shouted, holding onto the reins. "To the Fire Nation!"

The village leader watched the bison fly away, but only for a short time. The Fire prince came back and with his right arm threw a flame at him. The villagers quietly, but quickly retrieved to their homes. The village leader backed up in a corner and looked fearfully at the Fire prince.

"Have you seen the Avatar lately?" Prince Zuko asked the village leader, trying not to loose his patient which was very thin now.

The village leader shook his head, "N-no!"

Zuko studied the man and narrowed his eyes, "Really? Because I believe I saw the Avatar here." Zuko said.

"She was never here." The village leader lied.

"Liar!" Zuko yelled, his anger rising. A hand was placed on his shoulder, Zuko looked over his shoulder. It was his uncle.

"Maybe," Uncle Iroh began, "He is telling the truth, Prince Zuko. Maybe, the Avatar's friends were here without her because they are heading a different way." Iroh paused, and gave Zuko a curious look in his eyes. "Besides, how do you know he is lying?"

Because I visited the Avatar here in this village, Zuko answered silently. But, instead he answered, "Because I can tell!" He turned back to the village leader, "Tell me where the Avatar is, or..." Zuko caught hold of a little boy running by with his right hand. His left arm was still hurting. Zuko looked at the boy for two seconds, and remembered this boy being the one who asked Avatar Artymis for money and that she gave him all her money and her blanket. Zuko knew that a feeling inside of him would make him feel guilty to harm a child who did nothing, but he pinned the boy's arms behind his back and with his left hand, created a fire "knife" and it was very close to the boy's neck. Zuko his all emotion that his left arm and hand were hurting. "Or I'll cut this boy's throat." He threatened to the village leader.

"Zuko!" Iroh stared at him, "It's only a little boy!"

"And?" Zuko muttered, watching the village leader.

The village leader gave in, and sighed. "The Avatar was here. She helped free our village from a spirit. Lady Artymis has left to the Fire Nation, to talk to Avatar Roku in his temple." He confessed, he gave a worried look at the frightened little boy. "Please let him go."

"The Fire Nation?" Zuko repeated, "Are you sure?"

"Positive." The village leader said, "She left early this morning."

Is the Avatar crazy? She'll get killed if she even puts a foot in the Fire Nation! Zuko looked down at the boy, who was sobbing quietly, "Fine." The prince said as and the fire "knife" died, he pushed the boy towards the village leader who embraced the boy tightly, "But if I find out you lied to me, you'll see me soon." Zuko turned around to see a disapproving look in his uncle's face. "What?" Zuko muttered.

Iroh shook his head and both of them began to walk out of the village.

"Lady Artymis is nice!" A child's voice yelled, he sounded like he was finishing crying. Both of the Firebenders turned around to see the little boy that Zuko took as a hostage. The little boy was glaring at them, but anyone could tell he had a kind look in his eyes. "Why do you want to hurt her?" He asked, "She's like a big sister to me and my friends! Did you like her and she didn't like you back? Is that why you want to hurt her?"

Zuko was stunned by the courage that the little boy had. The little boy actually was questioning his motives for hunting down the Avatar. Zuko stared, without emotion, at the little boy. "I hunt the Avatar down because I need to." The prince answered.

The little boy didn't seemed satisfied. "You hurt my sister, I'll - I'll - I'll - "The boy stuttered, he wasn't exactly sure what to say next.

Zuko looked at the little boy, he didn't realize the little boy looked up to the Avatar as his sister, but it didn't stop the prince from saying harshly to the boy, "You'll what? Run home and cry to your mommy!" The boy remained silent, his bottom lip shaking and his eyes were shining with tears. Zuko realized the little boy was going to cry. Don't cry! Please, don't cry! he silently pleaded as he watched the boy tremble.

"Zuko!" Iroh whispered, anger in his voice.

"I swear..." Zuko started, but was interrupted by the small cry of the little boy. The little boy was taken in the village leader's arms and tears role down his cheeks.

"This little boy has no mother." The village leader quickly explained, then pleaded. "Please go, you said you would."

Zuko glanced at the crying little boy again, the boy turned his head away quickly. Zuko and Iroh left the village, the prince smirked when he realized the Avatar would be easy to capture. She doesn't know how the Fire Nation grounds have changed, so I have the perfect advantage. But he was feeling a small bit of pity for the little boy who had no mother.

Artymis yawned when she awoke from her second nap. She stretched her arms out and smiled, Good morning, Anduril.

Good afternoon, Arty. Anduril joked quietly, saying her old nickname that Bumi gave her.

Have I been asleep that long? Artymis asked, looking up to the position of the sun in the sky.

It's close to noon, you woke up at midnight to leave and you slept right before the moon disappeared. Anduril said.

Artymis reached over to her pack and opened it, Want something to eat? she asked him, digging in her pack.

Yes, do you have any fish? Anduril asked.

Artymis searched and frowned, "I knew I forgot something." She muttered. "Nope!" She said loudly, "No fish!" Artymis found something else, though. How 'bout a sandwich? A peanut-butter one?

Anduril paused, then agreed. Alright.

Artymis took one peanut-butter sandwich out. Anduril lifted his claw up, Artymis tossed the snack over to his claws. Anduril ate it in one swallow. Sorry if I don't have a bigger one! Artymis apologized, looking for a second one.

It's alright, Anduril said, he leaned slightly to the right while they passed through the clouds.

Artymis ate her sandwich hearty,she closed her eyes in delight. Nothing like a peanut-butter sandwich for breakfast/lunch! She thought. Artymis finished swallowing her breakfast/lunch, she tried to reach out for the clouds by leaning to the side a bit.

You'll fall, Anduril warned her.

Artymis frowned, she sighed. You're so overprotective! She laughed.

When aren't I? Anduril joked, he paused. So, explain to me again how you found a way to speak to Avatar Roku. Artymis retold the events, leaving out the part that 'Shang' was with her body while she was in the spirit world. Interesting, Anduril commented after she told her tale.

Artymis grinned, Come on, admit it Anduril.

Admit what you're speaking? Anduril asked.

You'll jealous. Artymis pointed out, still grinning.

How? Anduril seemed confused.

Roku's dragon showed me the way while you didn't, just admit it. Artymis was close to laughing, Roku's dragon was my overprotective 'brother'. Anduril growled, Artymis patted him softly. Don't worry, he's Roku's overprotective dragon. You'll always be min, Anduril. Anduril seemed satisfied, Artymis rolled her eyes.

Artymis suddenly felt herself slide off of Anduril, she gave out a yell. Anduril seemed to have took a hard and fast move, since he was trying to balance himself, which caused Artymis her fall. Artymis fell through the clouds, she waved her arms in panic. She tried to yell out to Anduril, who took no notice of her fall, but she couldn't. Her voice died for some reason. Artymis clasped her hands together and prayed.

Oh please let me live! I need to talk to Avatar Roku!

Artymis continued falling.

Prince Zuko stood on the deck of his ship. He was staring out into the blue ocean, that surrounded his ship. Zuko turned around when he heard footsteps coming up behind him. His Uncle Iroh stopped and gave Zuko a serious look.

"What?" Zuko snapped.

"Zuko," Iroh said seriously, "That was not nice to yell at that little boy. It was just plain cruel."

He's still on that? Zuko thought and said, "Uncle, that kid was getting to me!"

"So?" Iroh asked, "He was just a little boy. Little children have a habit of doing that, and he lost his mother. Have pity for him, Zuko." He paused, realizing that his nephew wouldn't understand. "And going back to the Fire Nation? This is madness."

Zuko was glad that Iroh changed the subject, "Returning home to capture the Avatar isn't madness. I'm continuing with my mission."

"The Avatar isn't worth it," Iroh said, "Going to the Fire Nation is a bad choice, the most stupid in your sixteen years. Find another way to capture the Avatar, please Prince Zuko."

Zuko groaned, "What do you expect me to do, uncle?" The prince stretched out his arms before him as a demonstration, "Let the Avatar fall from the sky?" He asked, shouting.

He got his answer when somebody or something fell into his arms, falling from the sky.

Artymis felt herself slow down, then stop. She felt a pair of strong arms supporting her. Artymis had her eyes closed and opened them to see a pair of golden eyes that were wide with shock. It was Prince Zuko, Artymis knew it. She blinked in confusion. Zuko just saved me from hitting the ocean, how do you thank a guy that hunts you down, tires to kill you sometimes, and tried to kiss you? She thought.

Artymis smiled weakly, "Um, thanks for saving me." She said.

Prince Zuko just stared at her in shock and confusion. "Saving you...?" He repeated with doubt.

"Yeah," Artymis replied weakly, "You broke my fall."

"Apparently," Artymis recognized that voice as the prince's uncle, "You have your answer!" There was a little humor in his voice.

"I guess so," Zuko was still staring at Artymis. Where she come from? he thought, still wondering why she fell from the sky.

"Answer for what?" Artymis asked, Please don't tell me he's gonna imprison me! she thought with panic, Jeez! Can't I have a break for once? Artymis quickly added, "Ok! You can chase me after I'm through with this trip!"

"I beg your pardon?" Iroh asked, coming over.

"She wants me stop chasing her." Zuko said, his eyes narrowing at her.

"I need to go to - "Artymis began.

"I know." Zuko cut in, "To the Fire Nation, to the temple of Avatar Roku, right?"

"Yeah," Artymis said, looking at him in question, "How'd you know?"

"The village leader told me." Zuko answered.'

"Funny. He doesn't seem like the type who say where I was." Artymis gave Zuko a cold look, "What did you do? Threaten to burn down the village? Or did you take a child as a hostage?" Artymis was hoping he didn't use a child as a hostage.

Zuko didn't answer, partly because he didn't want to, and partly because when he looked away from the Avatar and up ahead - he saw a blockade of ships, around the Fire Nation borders. "A blockade," He muttered.

Artymis followed his gaze and saw the blockade as well. Oh great! she thought as she saw the ships slowly moving in two rows. Just when my day can't any worse! I am here, in Prince Zuko's arms - Artymis moved her eyes to the prince, who still wouldn't let her go - and he won't give me a break to even see Avatar Roku! And Anduril didn't even notice I fell off and I'm going to get punished when I get to the North Pole by Katara and Sokka! Can my day get any worse? She paid attention to the ships again, wondering how she could escape Prince Zuko and sneak into the Fire Nation, and contact Avatar Roku - all without her friends' help.

"Prince Zuko," Iroh warned, "Turn back."

"Why?" Zuko shouted, a little too loud for Artymis, who shut her eyes.

Damn! she thought, Can he shout any louder?

"I don't think those ships will let you pass even if you have the Avatar." Iroh said.

"But I do, and I can return home!" Zuko shouted.

Artymis could hear Iroh sigh. She looked up to Zuko with confusion, Why is he so desperate to go back home? I mean, he's a prince. He can go home anytime he wants! She watched him give an order to his crew to enter the Fire Nation.

"I'll go and make some tea for the three of us." Iroh said, not so happy.

"I don't want any tea." Zuko muttered, he looked back at the blockade. His eyes shift to Artymis, "And what are you looking at?" He snapped.

Artymis wanted to yell at him, but she controlled her temper. "I wanted to ask you something." She said, "Why are you so keen to go back to your home? I mean, you're a prince."

Zuko turned away, Artymis could've sworn she saw a flash of hurt in his eyes. "I am banished." he answered in a low voice.

"Banished?" Artymis repeated, "From returning home?" He didn't respond, but Artymis kept asking questions. "By who? And why?"

"None of your business." Zuko replied coldly.

Artymis felt pity for him. "Um," She began, "I'm sorry." She said, I need to apologize for blaming the war on him - even if I don't really want to.

"Sorry?" He turned his face back to him, "Sorry for what?"

"Sorry for saying you were the one who started the war." Artymis said, she lowered her eyes. "I've listened to Zhao's lies, and I can't believe I actually fell for them." She paused, thinking of Zhao, only made her hatred for him increase. "He said you started the war, and that that's why people hate the Fire Nation."

"He what?" Zuko asked, anger flashing in his eyes.

"Yeah," Artymis answered. "He did."

"I'll show him - "Zuko stopped and sighed. He looked at her, "Understand that your apology doesn't change my hatred for you."

"Yeah, I figured." Artymis said, "Um, Zuko?"

"What?" He replied.

"Can you put me down?" She asked.

Zuko hadn't noticed that she was still in his arms, he shook his head. "How do I know you won't escape?" He asked.

Artymis sighed, "Well, can you at least take me to Avatar Roku's temple before you take me to the Fire Lord... or prison?" She asked sweetly.

Zuko stared at the Avatar for a moment, he looked away. "I suppose I could."

Artymis made a weak smile, and it disappeared quickly. "Thanks." She didn't feel like shutting up though, "Why did you catch me, though?"

"Hmm?" Zuko looked back at her.

Artymis stared at him and slightly tilted her head to the side, she didn't know why but she wanted to know. "You promise?"

"Promise what?" Zuko asked, still not getting where this was leading to.

"Promise to catch me," She said. "when I fall?"

Zuko gave her a peculiar look. Don't let your feelings get in the way this time! A voice warned him in his mind. Nevertheless, he nodded. "I promise to catch you, when you fall." He promised, Zuko didn't realize he was letting a smile escape from him.

Artymis returned the smile.

"Prince Zuko," His uncle came back. "I think Commander Zhao will question you for your return."

"Let him." Zuko said.

Artymis turned her head quickly up ahead. They were nearing the blockade, and sure enough, Commander Zhao was standing on the deck of one of the ships. Artymis felt heat rise in her cheeks as she glared at him with anger. She wanted to go up to Zhao and slap him many times for all the lies, possibly kill him. But she felt Zuko's arms under her back and knees tighten and he held her closer. She looked up to him.

"You might wanna pretend you're unconscious." Zuko suggested, watching the blockade of ships. "If you're awake, they'll suspect us."

Artymis leaned her head against his chest, and laid her arms on her lap. "Alright," She said, then added. "If only you're take me to Avatar Roku's temple."

Zuko nodded, "I will." He said, Zuko looked down at Artymis. She was pretending to be asleep, and she was pretty good at acting it out. He could feel Iroh coming up to stand next to him.

They drew nearer and one of the ships that Zhao was on, drew closer to the ship and a bridge between the two ships was brought out. Commander Zhao, with six Fire Nation soldiers, came on board. He rose an eyebrow and his eyes scanned the deck of the ship. He came up to Zuko and Iroh.

"You do know," Zhao began. "That I can't allow you to come into our borders. You are exiled from this kingdom, and I'll have to arrest you." He smirked, but it faded, when he saw that the Avatar was in the prince's arms. "What's this?" He muttered.

"I have captured the Avatar, Zhao." Zuko informed, "And now, I like to return home."

Zhao's eyes widen by this, as if he couldn't believe his eyes. He looked at Artymis, and noticed the lavender suitor's rose he had given her, was gone. It was nowhere in her hair. Zhao turned his eyes on Zuko. With a clenched fist, he managed to say, "Fine." Zhao ordered over his shoulder, "Allow our guests to pass." He turned back to the prince, and looked at the sleeping Avatar. "You, apparently, were lucky. The Avatar is hard to catch. Your efforts have finally paid off."

Zuko gave him a cold look, "At least, I didn't try to fill her head up with lies."

Zhao glared at him, "What makes you say that?"

"Don't play around." Zuko said angrily, "I know you gave the Avatar gifts so she could believe you."

Zhao laughed, "Yes, I did. And I would've captured her, if you didn't interfere at the camp, and won her before me."

Artymis, although she was 'sleeping', felt more heat rise in her. Zhao admit that he was trying to trick her with lies. Artymis knew that any moment now, she would wake up and hurt him bad. But she remained asleep and showed no sign that she was awake, or she had overheard him.

"Commander Zhao," Iroh stepped in. "May we please proceed?"

"Yes."

Artymis heard Zhao leave the deck, along with the other soldiers. She could feel the ship move forward, and Iroh leaving. Artymis waited for some kind of signal to be given to her, so she could go to the temple.

"You can open your eyes, now." Zuko said, without looking at her.

Artymis opened her eyes, her eyes switched from the prince's face, to his hand on her shoulder. She really wanted Zuko to put her down, but she knew it would blow their cover. So she kept her head leaning against his chest. "Um, are they watching us?" She asked in a low voice, her eyes returning to the prince.

Zuko slightly looked behind them, "Yes." He muttered, "Apparently, they don't really believe us." He turned his face to Artymis. "I would say Zhao was jealous."

"Jealous?" Artymis asked, "Jealous of what?"

"Jealous that I found you and am returning home." Zuko answered, "He wanted to capture you before I did, to be promoted and take my chance of returning and reclaiming my honor back."

Artymis looked at Zuko and felt sorry for him. "Could I at least kill him?" She asked.

Zuko found this a little funny, because he smiled. "Be my guest."

You know, come to think of it, Artymis thought, Zuko isn't all that bad. She struggled to say something.

Zuko smirked at her, "Struggling to say something, Avatar?"

Artymis lowered her eyes, "No," She muttered. "I was just wondering how far the temple - "

"You really are impatient, aren't you?" Zuko asked her.

"Yes, I am." Artymis answered, remembering what Monk Gyatso had told her when she was little...

(Flashback Begins)

Five-year-old Artymis walked with Monk Gyatso in the Air Temple. Artymis skipped and looked around while she and Gyatso kept walking.

"Monk Gyatso?" Artymis asked, looking up.

Monk Gyatso turned his old face down at her, "Yes, Artymis?"

"Where are we going?" She asked.

"We are going to the place where you may choose your bison." Gyatso answered, his voice soft and kind.

"A bison?" Artymis whined, she frowned.

"You do not like bisons?" Gyatso asked.

"I really, really, really like them!" Artymis said, "But everyone had bisons! I want something different!"

Gyatso smiled, "Something different, eh?"

"Yeah!" Artymis said.

"Well," Gyatso said uncertainly.

They stopped before an opened doorway to a courtyard where there were bisons - young and old. It was the courtyard where Airbenders chose their bisons. Gyatso stepped outside. Artymis clung to his side and held his hand tightly. Gyato looked down at her and gave her a warm smile. They passed the through the crowd of bisons and saw the other children, around Artymis' age, choosing their bisons, which were babies.

"Now," Gyatso gave Artymis a little push, "Go look for your animal guide."

Artymis looked at every baby bison, all of them were cute, but none didn't seem to fit her. She tried to find one, but she couldn't. She went back to Monk Gyatso after nearly three hours, telling him she couldn't find one.

"It's not fair," Artymis muttered as she and Gyatso went back to their rooms. "Everyone else found a bison - but I didn't!"

Gyatso stopped and placed a hand on her head, "Maybe the bison you're destined for has not yet been born."

"When then?" Little Artymis asked, frowning.

Gyatso smiled, "Lesson One: Always be patient." He said, "You are impatient, Artymis. Learn to be patient."

"Why?" She asked.

"Because, if you are patient, time sometimes favors you. It may past more quickly," He explained, "Being impatient, on the other hand, time will not favor you and it'll slow down."

Artymis stopped and nodded, "Ok!" She said brightly.

A week later, she found an egg, which contained a baby silver dragon inside...

(Flashback Ends)

Artymis smiled softly at the memory. She closed her eyes briefly and opened them. She looked up to see Prince Zuko giving her a peculiar look. Her smile got a bit wider. "What you said, just made me think of a memory." She explained.

"A good one?" Zuko asked, still looking at her.

"Yeah," Artymis said.

"I'm glad to hear it," Zuko said, he received a look from the Avatar. Her look wasn't one that was filled with confusion, but just calmness. He stared at her, he found himself lost in her emerald eyes.

"Prince Zuko," Iroh's voice broke the eye contact between the prince and Avatar. "We are far from the blockade, the Avatar may be put down now."

Zuko looked at his uncle, and nodded. He turned his face back to Artymis and asked, "Promise not to runaway?"

Artymis paused before answering, "I promise." She answered.

Zuko put her down, his arm moved from the middle of her back and came around her shoulder. Artymis looked uncertainly to his arm around her shoulders, then looked up at him. Artymis felt Zuko pull her closer to him.

"Just in case you runaway," He explained.

"I told you I won't." Artymis reminded.

Zuko smirked, "I know." He turned his face away from her and looked to the side of the ship.

Artymis stared at him with confusion in mind, then looked away to her right, behind Zuko. Iroh was walking towards them, but stopped when he saw Zuko's arm holding the Avatar. Artymis gave him a pleading look. Help me! she mouthed at him. Artymis knew she could use airbending, but she have to break her word. Because if she did one airbending trick, Zuko would loose it. They start a battle, all because she didn't want him holding her.

Iroh got her message and nodded. He walked over to them again. "Prince Zuko," He said, "Do you honestly want the Fire Nation to think you have a relationship with the Avatar?" Zuko turned his head and stared at Artymis with wide eyes. Artymis stared back at him. They immediately pulled away. "I suppose not," Iroh said.

When I said 'Help me' I didn't know he say thatArtymis thought, while watching Zuko. It's ridiculous because we are very far from even being called 'friends' let alone a loving couple!

Zuko stared at Iroh in anger, What? he thought, Me have a relationship with her! He paused and looked at Artymis, Yeah right!

I can not imagine me with him! Artymis thought.

"Milady, would you like to have some tea?" Iroh turned to her and asked.

Artymis nodded her head, "Yes, please." She said.

Zuko glanced at her, as if in surprise.

"I'll be right back," Iroh told her. He left and came back, holding two cups of tea. "Would jasmine tea be alright?" He asked her, passing the cup to her.

"I don't mind," Artymis said, taking the cup from Iroh.

"Prince Zuko?" Iroh looked over his shoulder. "Would you also like some tea?" He asked him, even though Iroh had a feeling what the answer was.

"No." Zuko answered, "I hate tea." He said rudely.

Iroh shook his tea, "Tea relaxes you, Prince Zuko."

Can the tea relax a hot-headed prince, though? Artymis brought the cup to her lips and sipped from it. The jasmine tea tasted very good. She looked down in the liquid.

"So," Iroh said after one sip, "I see my nephew and you have come to an agreement?" He looked to Zuko.

Zuko didn't touch his cup, but watched Artymis as if she could escape any moment now. Zuko noticed Artymis staring down into her cup of tea, he also noticed she looked uncomfortable.

"Zuko?" Iroh called out.

"Huh? What?" Zuko shifted his gaze from the Avatar to his uncle.

"I said, so you both came down into a agreement?" Iroh repeated.

"Yes," Zuko answered.

"Good." Iroh said, he turned his face towards Artymis. "We should be close to Avatar Roku's temple."

Artymis was grateful for that. She was getting tired of Zuko watching her, she felt like he was trying to read her mind or something. She looked up from her tea cup and looked at Zuko. "How long," Artymis asked, she moved her gaze to Iroh. "'till the temple?"

Iroh turned to her and smiled. "No offense, Lady Avatar, but you seem to have yet still learn the lesson of patience." He rose a finger, "Lesson one: Always be patient."

Artymis smiled, "Yeah, I know." She paused, and returned her gaze back to her tea cup. She heard Iroh leave the deck, "Someone once told me that." She said.

Zuko gave her a curious look, but one that didn't show he was interested. Why does she always have something to remember when someone says something? he thought, Why can't she just forget the past?

Why does everything remind me of my life 100 years ago? Artymis thought, staring down at her tea cup. Why can't I just follow Bumi's advice, and let go of the past?

"We're here." Zuko's voice brought Artymis back to earth.

She looked up to see Zuko walking after his uncle. Artymis walked slowly over to the rail, her tea cup still in hands.

Iroh stared out into the window of the ships' control room, just in time to see Zuko give the Avatar a look. He closed his eyes and tried to remember where he had seen the look on Zuko's face when he watched the Avatar before. He remembered and smiled.

Zuko came in, he looked to the helmsman, "Land there," He commanded. Zuko turn to leave, but his uncle's words stopped him in his tracks.

"Would you really take the Avatar to your father?" Iroh asked.

Zuko turned around to his uncle. He knows what I'll say, he thought, So why does he ask? "Of coarse I do," Zuko answered and gave his uncle a curious look. "Why do you ask?"

Iroh shrugged, "Just curious."

Zuko walked up to the window and looked out for a second. He stared at the Avatar for a moment, she was standing very still behind the rail. Zuko felt the strange feelings start to rise in him. He shook his head, "I have to get back down there, or the Avatar will escape." He muttered, and walked out of the room.

Iroh stared after his nephew and tried to remember where he seen that look in Zuko's eyes before when he was staring at the Avatar. Iroh remembered and smiled softly. I guess some memories just can't die, he thought, he continued to watch the Avatar.

Artymis stood behind the rail and saw the crescent moon-shaped island that Avatar Roku's dragon had taken her. The lava slowly escaped from the active volcano and fell into the ocean, and blended in the waters. Artymis watched the lava, her eyes traveled up to the temple. She moved her head away from the island, towards the sun.

The sun was going down, about two hours away from sunset. The light from the sun changed the blue sky to an orange sky, the waters reflected the sky and sun.

Two hours 'till sunset, Artymis thought. She continued to look at the sun, I hope I'll be in time to speak with Avatar Roku. She placed her tea cup, which was still full, on the rail. Artymis focused her eyes from her tea cup, back to the setting sun.

Zuko reached the deck and he searched for the Avatar, he saw her behind the rail. He quietly walked over to Artymis' side. He stood on her right, where she wasn't facing. He looked at her, he just noticed Artymis was three inches or so shorter than him. Zuko stared at Artymis, he noticed that the sunset's light made her skin glow a bit. Like she was fairy or so. Zuko leaned forward a bit, he only saw half of her face since she had turned her head to look at the sun.

Artymis felt a presence next to her. Her hair whipped around when she quickly turned her head. She saw Zuko taking a step back, startled by her fast reaction. Artymis blinked and stared into Zuko's golden eyes. She focused on them and moved her eyes to his "flame" scar that was on the left side of his face.

Zuko noticed that she was looking at his scar. He placed a hand over his scar and looked away, so Artymis couldn't see his scar. He closed his eyes, remembering the pain he went through to receive the scar on his face. Zuko felt a hand touch his arm. He opened his eyes and saw Artymis giving him a pitiful look in her eyes.

Artymis took a step forward. She gently removed Zuko's hand away from his scar. She placed a hand over his cheek and slightly turned his face so she could see his scar. Artymis didn't know why she felt pity for Zuko, she just did, even though she didn't know how and why he got it. She looked at his scar, then back into his golden eyes. Artymis slightly tilted her head. She felt an emotion of emptiness overwhelm her when she stared into Zuko's eyes. A strange feeling replaced the empty feeling, and the feeling started to burn slightly.

Zuko stared at her, and didn't resist this time. He placed a hand over her own, where she was cupping his cheek. He closed his eyes and felt the same strange feeling rise in his again, like heat. He opened his eyes and stared into Artymis' emerald eyes.

Artymis blinked, but very slowly, like in a dream. She looked deeper in Zuko's eyes and didn't even notice her face was getting closer to his. She tip-toed so she could be a bit taller, to reach Zuko's height which really didn't work. Zuko edged his face closer to her. He still had his hand over her own, and he gently placed a hand on her waist. He was close to the Avatar's face now. Artymis felt Zuko's hand on her waist, and she didn't fuss over it.

Before both of the teenagers knew it, there was a shake on the ship. Artymis was pulled away from Zuko and she was stumbling towards the rail. The cup of jasmine tea fell overboard, and Artymis was close to being overboard as well. She tried to control her balance, but she couldn't. Artymis waved her arms in panic and felt herself lean over the rail. The next thing she knew, Artymis felt a pair of strong arms wrap around her waist and pulled her close and away from the rail. She felt her back against something. Artymis' head shot upwards, to see her savior. It was Zuko. Artymis placed her hands on his arms and held on tight. She could hear Zuko breathing, and the command of a man aiming for the ship they were in.

"Fire!" A voice shouted with authority.

Artymis recognized the voice as Zhao. She now really wanted to hurt Zhao. But Artymis shut her eyes and prayed that the attacks would stop. They didn't, and the ship kept shaking. Artymis felt Zuko's hand move from her waist and grip her wrist. Zuko spun her around and brought her face close to his, so they could be face-to-face.

"Come on!" Zuko shouted, he sprinted down the deck.

Artymis had no choice but to follow him, since he was holding her wrist. Artymis staggered behind a bit, but Zuko urged her to keep going. "What about your uncle!" Artymis asked him, when Zuko stopped at the front of the ship.

Zuko turned around to look her, then behind her. He hated to leave Uncle Iroh behind, especially with Zhao. But he got a signal from Iroh that he be ok, Zuko returned his eyes to Artymis' worried ones. "He'll be fine." He answered, and jumped on the rail. He looked back when Artymis didn't join him, instead she step back, a worried expression on her face. "What's wrong?" Zuko asked her.

Artymis shook her head, "I have a bad feeling about this..." She started, but her voice drifted off. Like, how do I know you won't kill me? she finished her sentence silently.

"Trust me!" Zuko shouted, he offered her his hand.

Artymis stared at it, and hesitated.

"Artymis!" Zuko shouted, he quickly looked up, smoke was escaping from his ship. He looked back at the Avatar, "Listen!" He shouted, "I'll take you to the temple!" He promised.

"And how do I know I won't fall overboard and die in the ocean while on the way there?" Artymis asked, her eyes narrowing.

"I'll catch you when you fall!" Zuko promised.

Artymis blinked, she gave Zuko a curious look. "Really?" She asked.

"Yes!" Zuko said, "I promise!" He offered her his hand again, "Take my hand!"

Artymis didn't hesitate this time. She slapped her hand over his and felt Zuko grip it tight. He helped her get on the rail next to him. Artymis looked back into the waters below them, a memory of her and Anduril 100 years ago flashed in her mind. It was when she was running away from the temple, because she had found out she was the Avatar. It meant she would be separated from Monk Gyatso. Artymis was about to get lost into the memory, when Zuko turned to her and asked:

"You ready?"

Artymis blinked and looked back at him, "Only if you promise to catch me when I fall." She said, she could've sworn Zuko smiled for a second there.

"I will." Zuko said again, he jumped into the water first, Artymis following him.

The water was surprising cold, even when it was right next to lava. Artymis felt chills run all over her body. She tried to reach the surface, but something kept pulling her farther and farther below. She tried to kick, but her legs went numb. Artymis held her breath and tried to swim up again. A hand grasped hers and pulled up above the surface. Artymis took a large gulp of air in, and slowly let it out. She slightly turned her head to see Zuko swimming towards shore, where the temple was. He tighten his grip on her hand and helped her reach shore. Artymis nearly fell on her face on the sandy shore, she breathed heavily.

Zuko gasped for air, he looked over to Artymis to find her ok. He smiled. He turned and gasped for more air. He sat up and looked to Artymis again. He noticed she was shivering. Apparently, her long gloves didn't give enough warmth. Zuko sighed, and warmed his hands up with a bit of firebending. He placed on hand on Artymis' left arm, and the other on her right arm. His hands remained there, and he noticed the Avatar wasn't shivering as much.

Artymis felt grateful that Zuko was warming her up, but she did feel a bit uncomfortable. She glanced at Zuko, he was eyeing her. "What?" She asked him, removing a few locks of wet hairs away from her face. "Is there something wrong?"

Zuko shook his head, "No, it's nothing. Don't worry about it." He said, his hands pulled away from her. He stood up and looked over his shoulder, "Zhao will soon find out we're missing. And his first guess will be that we're at the temple."

Artymis stood up and nodded, "Then I guess we should start moving." She said.

"Right," Zuko said, finding it hard that he was actually agreeing with the Avatar. He started walking towards the steps of the temple.

Artymis watched him and looked down at herself. I certainly can't contact Avatar Roku or enter the temple looking like this, she thought. She clapped her hand together and summoned up a small spiral of wind around her. In seconds, she was dry. She looked down at herself again and smiled at her "self drying" trick she learned. She looked up and saw Zuko gaping at her. "What?" She snapped.

"You could've used airbending to save us!" Zuko yelled, "Not to mention warm yourself up!"

Artymis frowned, "Air can warm yourself up in some ways," Her voice went really low and she turned away, "Plus, I haven't quite learned that yet." Fortunately, Zuko didn't hear. When Artymis turned around to face him, he was hiding a laugh. "What now?" She snapped angrily.

"Nothing," Zuko lied, turning away and walking back to the steps. "Come on."

Artymis shrugged and walked side-by-side with Zuko, but stood five feet away from him. She didn't really quite trust him yet, even if he gave her his word that he would take her to the temple. Then take her to the Fire Lord, where the spirits only know what would await there for her. Artymis could hear Zuko trying to hold back a laugh, she was getting sick and tired of it when they were walking up the stairs of the temple entrance. They were at the top of the stairs and right across from the temple entrance, when Artymis turned to face Zuko with anger.

"What!" She yelled, "What's so funny!"

Zuko tried to hold back a grin. He looked at Artymis. He nearly lost it when he saw how messed up her hair was. It was a bit frizzy and very, very dry. I guess her "self drying" was a little too much, Zuko thought. He closed his eyes, and quietly made a chuckle.

"Hey!" Artymis yelled, stomping her right foot and placing her hands on her hips. "What's so funny? Answer me!"

"You really need to work on your airbending." Zuko managed to say, while grinning.

Artymis narrowed her eyes, How dare he judge my airbending - it's perfect! she paused, Ok, maybe I do need a little work. But at least I can do it! "What do you mean?" She asked.

"Um, maybe you need to look in a mirror or something." Zuko answered vaguely.

Artymis rolled her eyes, she then noticed Zuko eyeing her hair. She touched a lock of her hair with her hand, and knew why Zuko was laughing at her. Her hair was very, very dry and unusually frizzy. Oh great! she thought as she tried to smooth her hair out, My "self drying" was a little too off on my hair!

"Jeez, thanks for telling me." Artymis muttered angrily, and turned on her heel. She stomped her way into the temple, while muttering angrily to herself.

Zuko stopped laughing and watched her stomp angrily away. He shook his head. Why are girls so worried over their appearances? he thought, I mean, they all look the same either way.

Artymis slowed her pace down once in the temple. She managed to smooth her hair out and fix it to it's usual style. Her brown hair was once down in three layers to her shoulder and perfectly smoothed out. But Artymis didn't feel so sure of herself. She had her fingers comb her hair out again, for the third time. Artymis wasn't really one to worry her appearances about, but she suddenly felt she need to. Maybe it was because of Zuko? She turned around to see Zuko entering the temple as well.

Zuko saw Artymis finger-comb her hair, he shook his head. He walked past Artymis.

"Ok," He said, his eyes scanning the room. "We're here."

"Great," Artymis said, but in a not-so-happy tone. "Now, where is the room where Avatar Roku's statue is?" She asked.

Zuko blinked, he turned around and stared at her. "You mean, you never been here before?" He asked her in amazement.

"Only recently... in a dream." Artymis said, half telling the truth. "But, I went through a fast but not-so-easy way."

Zuko sighed, "Great." He muttered, "I can't believe I brought the Avatar here and she doesn't even know where to go. Great."

Artymis glared at him. "Shut up." She snapped, she moved her hair out of her face.

Zuko glared at her, he sighed and rolled his eyes when he saw her fiddling over her hair again. "Are you always worried about your hair?" He asked her.

"No." Artymis simply answered.

Zuko walked up to her, "Then, why are you now?" He asked. He reached out for her hands, he softly held her wrists and drew her hands away from her hair. "You look fine." Zuko commented.

Artymis stared at him, confused by his words. "Really?" She asked.

"Yeah, you do." Zuko replied, flashing her a smile.

Artymis felt her cheeks heat up a bit, and she could tell she was blushing. She didn't even seem to notice footsteps approaching. Zuko saw her blushing, and he smiled more. He frowned, and looked behind Artymis when he heard footsteps approaching. Artymis turned around, following his gaze. The temple entrance door-way where the teenagers had entered, were five men in Fire Nation noble robes and hats. They watched the Avatar and the Fire prince.

"Hello?" Artymis called out nervously. She felt Zuko's hands draw away from her wrists, they laid on her shoulders.

"We are the five Fire Sages," The man with an aging face announced in a rough voice. "Guardians of the Temple of the Avatar."

Artymis pulled away from Zuko's hands and stepped forth with a bright smile on her face, "Hi, I'm Avatar Artymis." She explained.

"We know." The man said.

Stalkers! Artymis first thought was that when he said that.

"Artymis - look out!" Zuko yelled, he grabbed Artymis' arm and pulled her back to him.

"What the - " Artymis was cut off by three fireballs thrown at where she was standing. She gasped and looked up to the Fire Sages attacking her with more firebending. "Hey!" She yelled, placing her hands on her hips. "What are you trying to do - kill me?" She glared at them.

Zuko laid a hand on her shoulder, "Artymis." He whispered, "I think Zhao ordered this."

Artymis' eyes widen and she gulped. Oh god! She drew back and turned on her heel. She clasped her hand in Zuko's and he led her away from them.

"The Avatar must be captured," One of the Fire Sages said as the two teenagers ran. "As well as the son of Lord Ozai."

This doesn't sound so good! Artymis thought with panic.

She followed Zuko through a few corridors. They stopped for a moment to catch their breath. Zuko let go of Artymis' hand and placed his hands on her shoulders. Artymis looked up at him, panting.

"Wh - what is it?" Artymis asked.

Zuko looked at her and said, "I'll hold the Fire Sages off. You try to find your way through the temple to speak with - whatever his name is."

"Avatar Roku." Artymis corrected.

"Whatever," Zuko said. "But when you're done talking with him, you will come back to me on my ship. I've held my deal, and you need to fulfill yours to me." He reminded.

Artymis lowered her face down and sighed, "Yeah, like I forgot." She muttered.

"You promised!" Zuko hissed.

"Ok, ok, ok!" Artymis said, looking back up at him. "I did, and I will fulfill it!"

"Come here!" A voice shouted, not too far. "The Avatar and the prince came through here!"

Zuko let go of Artymis' shoulders, he quickly walked to the corridor that they had just past. He was about to turn, but a hand laid on his arm and pulled him back. Zuko spun around and glared at Artymis, "What!" He snapped. He looked through one of the small windows, the sun was about a half-an-hour away from sunset. "You're running out of time!" He snapped again.

Artymis gave Zuko a worried expression. "You promise to come back?" She asked, her voice with an emotion of concern. Artymis suddenly felt worried about Zuko, she also felt guilty that he would fight alone, and not with her. I'd rather fight him, than have him fight alone, she thought.

Zuko blinked and gave her a questioning look. Why is she worried about me? he thought, Doesn't she hate my guts? He stared at her. He relaxed and nodded, "I promise to return." He said, Artymis' face seemed to brighten unexpectedly. Zuko then added quickly, "To take you to my father!" Zuko pulled away from the Avatar and ran around the corridor.

Artymis watched Zuko pull away from her and turn around the corridor. She stared after him. Artymis felt her concern for Zuko grow even more. She held her breath when she heard flames arise and fire punches. Wait, a little voice said in her mind, why am I so worried over Zuko? He's a jerk!

"Artymis - GO!" She heard Zuko shout.

Artymis closed her eyes, and took a deep breath. She opened her eyes and ran into the opposite direction that Zuko was fighting. I hope he'll be ok! she thought hopefully. Artymis could feel her heart pounding.

Zuko turned around when Artymis ran in the opposite direction. He watched her run and turn a corner, he paid attention to the guard. "You dare challenge the prince?" Zuko asked, in fighting position.

Artymis made many turns, in order for the Sages and guards not to follow her or keep track of where she was going. She made a sharp turn, her sixth turn, and bumped into someone unexpected. And angry. Artymis back away when she saw Katara's face, and Sokka's popping from behind her.

"Katara?" Artymis said confused, "Sokka? Wh - what are you guys doing here?"

"Artymis!" Katara flung her arms around her friend's neck. "We're so glad you're ok!" She hugged her tightly.

"I told you not to come here!" Artymis pulled Katara away, "Now, I don't know if we'll all make it out of here - alive!"

"Maybe," Katara glared at her with her hands on her hips. "If you hadn't runaway - "

"I didn't!" Artymis protested. "I didn't want you to come because you're get hurt!"

"And we stick together." Katara argued.

Sokka came up, "Firebenders or no Firebenders, danger or no danger - we stick together."

Artymis smiled, "Thanks." She said, she flashed them a warm smile. She blinked and looked around, "Um, I know he wouldn't fit in here. But, where's Anduril?"

"Well," Katara explained, "Apparently, he didn't notice when you slipped off."

"I figured." Artymis muttered.

"And when he did realize you slipped off, he saw Sokka, Appa, and me." Katara continued, "He told us you probably be here, so we all ended up coming here. Anduril is with Appa outside." Momo jumped out of nowhere, and landed on Sokka's head. "And Momo decided to help!" Katara laughed.

Sokka threw Momo off and faced Artymis, "So, how did you manage to come here?" He asked.

Artymis didn't realize it, but her cheeks were heating up and slightly flushed. "I - I - "

"Look out!" Katara pointed behind Artymis.

Artymis spun around and saw one of the Fire Sages. She sent a powerful wave of air towards the Fire Sage. He was knocked off his feet. Artymis turned around and sprinted forward. "Run!"

"Right behind ya!" Sokka said, following.

"Come on, Momo!" Katara called out as she followed her brother and friend.

Artymis led her friend threw a small series of turns, she made a fast and sharp turn. But when she looked up ahead, she another Fire Sage. "Uh-oh!" Artymis said, she halted. She turn on her heel and ran back. She saw a confused-looking Katara and Sokka. "Wrong way!" Artymis quickly explained, passing them. "Back! Back! Back! Back! Back!"

"Why - " Katara was cut off when she saw a Fore Sage emerge from the corridor.

"That's why!" Sokka yelled, "Let's go!" He and Katara ran, following Artymis.

"Wait - please!" The Fire Sage's voice had an unexpectedly soft tone, but an urgent. "Lady Avatar!" He cried out, chasing after them.

Oh yeah! Artymis thought, Like I'm gonna fall for 'wait' and 'please' - yeah right! She decided to turn into another hallway, she didn't realize it was dead end until she reached it. Artymis looked over her shoulder, Sokka and Katara just arrived and saw their dead end. "I think running is no longer an option." Artymis said.

"Like we don't know!" Sokka said, taking his boomerang out.

"Sorry if I led you here." Artymis said, looking at them with sorrow.

"As long as we'll together for our fate." Katara joked stupidly.

The Fire Sage reached them. He slowly walked to them, and in his eyes, Artymis noticed there was no threat of some sort. Just sincere. Nevertheless, she stood before him with a fierce determination, "I'm sorry, but you picked the wrong Avatar to start a fight with." She said.

"Please," The Fire Sage said softly, "I am your friend."

"Yeah right!" Katara said under her breath.

"Like we're gonna fall for it!" Sokka said.

Artymis looked up at the Fire Sage and was shocked to see him bend down and bow before her. Artymis took a step back, "Um, I'm no princess." She said.

"I know, but the Avatar is like a royal." The Fire Sage touched the floor with his forehead, "And I must bow down in your presence."

"Um," Artymis said uncertainly, still staring down at her as well as Katara and Sokka.

"I know why you are here, Lady Avatar." The Firebender revealed, "You are here to talk to Avatar Roku."

"Yeah," Artymis said slowly, "How'd you know? And please stand up."

The Firebender stood up, "A friend ordered me to take you to Avatar Roku." He revealed.

"A friend?" Artymis repeated.

"Yes, but more of that later." He said, he placed a hand over a lit torch to his left, and with his firebending, opened a door in the wall. "For now, please enter." The Firebender pleaded, he looked over his shoulder when voices were drawing closer. "Please, hurry!"

"Art?" Sokka whispered.

Artymis hesitated before saying, "It's the only choice we have." She entered the secret passage way, Sokka and Katara on her heel. The Fire Sage entered after they all did, and Artymis heard the doorway close, it once again was a wall. She turned around and looked to the Fire Sage. "Thank you." She said, bowing her head in respect.

The Fire Sage smiled warmly and bowed his head as well, "It is my pleasure to help the Avatar, milady."

"Please," Artymis said, "Call me Artymis."

He smiled and nodded. He started walking in the cave-like passage way they were in. "Follow me." He said over his shoulder.

Artymis followed first, then Katara and Sokka. Artymis decided to walk side-by-side with the Fire Sage. He does seem trustworthy, she thought. She looked up at him, "What is your name?" She asked out of curiosity.

He looked at her, "My name is Shyu."

"Oh," Artymis looked to Katara and Sokka, "They're Sokka and Katara - my friends." She earned a glare from Sokka, who still didn't trust Shyu. Katara hadn't revealed her opinion yet, but she looked neutral. She looked back at Shyu, ignoring Sokka's glare. "Why did you help us?" Artymis asked the Firebender.

Shyu sighed, and explained. "My grandfather was a Fire Sage, like I am. The duty of a Fire Sage is to serve the Avatar, and guard the temple. My grandfather and the other Fire Sages guarded this temple with their lives. He and the other Sages awaited the next Avatar in the cycle to come. But the Avatar never came."

Artymis stopped walking, "They were waiting for me then?" She whispered. A hand laid on her shoulder, she looked up to Shyu.

"It was not your fault." Shyu said.

Artymis smiled, she continued to follow him along with Katara and Sokka. Sokka seemed more easy on Shyu, Artymis noticed. She listened to Shyu once more.

"When the Fire Lord Sozin started this war, all five Sages were forced to follow him. They had no choice." Shyu explained, Artymis could've sworn she heard a hint of hurt in his voice. "I never wanted to serve the Fire Lord, but I also had no choice. I followed the Fire Lord against my will, I did not want this war." He stopped and turned around to Artymis and her friends. "When I learned you were coming - "

"How?" Artymis interrupted.

"The eyes of the statue of Avatar Roku, glowed and there was a spiritual aura in the room. We then knew the Avatar has returned to the world. And when I realized this, I knew that if I wanted to help the Avatar and stop this war - I had to betray my country." Shyu paused, and there was a bit of sadness in his kind golden eyes. "Now, I am a traitor and outcast."

Artymis felt pity for him. He betray his lord for me, she thought, I'm not sure someone from the Fire Nation would do that for me or anyone else. She gave Shyu a warm smiled, "Thanks for helping me, I really appreciate it." Shyu returned the smile, he turned around and led them through the passage way. Artymis walked, and her feet seemed to have taken control of her and automatically kept walking as she drifted off to another faraway memory...

(Flashback Begins)

In the grassy plains of the Fire Nation, in the middle of the day, was a young boy. He stood on the plains, like waiting for someone. He had dark hair and pale skin, but not an ill-pale color. His eyes seemed far off in the distance. The wind lightly blew.

Artymis quietly walked behind him. She stepped lightly and bent her knees as she attempted to sneak up on her. She was three feet behind him, when she just jumped on his back with laughter. "Hi Kuzon!" She said cheerfully, she pulled away and stood in front of Kuzon, her best friend.

He laughed, "Trying to sneak up on me again, huh?" He asked.

"Didn't work?" Artymis asked disappointed, she lowered her head. "Why can't anyone sneak up on you?"

Kuzon smiled and lifted her face up to him. "Maybe because I know you too well." He answered.

Artymis smiled at first, then it faded. She turned her face away and looked upon the grassy plains.

Kuzon sighed, "What's wrong?" He asked.

"Nothing." Artymis lied, she felt a hand lay on her shoulder and Kuzon turned her around to face him.

"What's wrong?" He asked her seriously.

"Nothing." Artymis lied again.

"You're lying," Kuzon looked seriously in her emerald eyes. "What's wrong, Artymis?"

Artymis sighed and lowered her eyes. "Don't you ever feel that you are an outcast?" She asked, turning away and walking very slowly. "Like the world rejects you?"

Kuzon watched her and walked to stand by her side, "Yeah, I know that feeling." He said lowly.

"I feel that a lot now," Artymis confessed. "I mean, all the Airbender masters are acting all weird around me."

"Why is that?" Kuzon asked.

Artymis shook her head, "I don't know why. It's like, they see me as a different person now. Like I'm not Artymis anymore, but someone else."

Kuzon nodded, "What about your guardian? Monk Gyatso?" He asked, "Does he treat you different?"

Artymis thought for a moment. "No," She answered.

"And Bumi, what about him?" Kuzon asked.

"No."

"Anduril?"

"Nothing new, just overprotective as always." Artymis answered.

There was a small pause. "And me?" Kuzon asked.

Artymis turned her face towards him, "You don't treat me any different than Bumi and Anduril and Gyatso." She answered.

Kuzon smiled and looked at the sun, Artymis followed his gaze and smiled happily. She always knew Kuzon - if she couldn't go to Gyatso or Anduril, or even Bumi - would be the right and perfect person to talk to. A very close and best friend. But after that nice afternoon, the year both Artymis and Kuzon turned fifteen, the Airbender drew far from the Firebender and ran away...

(Flashback Ends)

"We are here." Shyu announced.

Artymis' head jerked up. She followed Shyu out of the secret passage way and into a grand room. The room had a high ceiling and thick marble poles with a dragon circling around each one, 'till the top one. The floor was like a mirror and the room was either in different dark shade of red, or rich gold. Shyu led the three friends up to two beautiful doors. He gasped.

"What?" Artymis asked, "What is it?"

"The doors," Shyu said. "They're sealed shut."

"Aren't they suppose to?" Sokka asked.

Artymis looked at the double doors. There were five dragon heads sticking out, their mouths wide open and behind them was the golden flame of the Fire Nation. It frighten and awed Artymis at the same time.

"Only a fully-realized Avatar could open them now." Shyu said gravely. "Or, all five Fire Sages must open them - "

" - with five powerful punches." Artymis finished for him, "Or a royal blood of the nation that the temple is in, could use an element to open them with a few Sages. Right?" Artymis looked at Shyu, who nodded.

"How'd you know?" Katara whispered to Artymis.

"A friend once told me." Artymis answered, eyeing the doors. She sighed, "I guess I won't be able to talk to Avatar Roku now." She looked out a window, the sun was so very close to setting. I can't find out anything now! Artymis thought angrily.

"Wait." Sokka said. "I got a plan."

Artymis turned towards him in surprise, "Wow, Soak!" She joked. "You actually used your oh-so-tiny brain!"

Sokka glared at her, "Yes, Art. I thought of something." He turned his back to them.

"About time." Katara muttered to Artymis and Shyu.

"I heard that!" Sokka yelled over his shoulder.

Prince Zuko ran through many hallways. He stopped and was short out of breath. He panted. I have to find her, before she can escape from this island! he thought. He sighed and leaned against the wall with his shoulder. Zuko still couldn't stop thinking about Artymis - if she was hurt or captured. He shut his eyes. Why do I even care for her safety? All I need is to take her to my father and done! She'll be out of my mind! He groaned. I can't get her out of my head now!

Ugh! Artymis thought angrily as she watched Sokka proceed with his plan. Why can't I get Prince Zuko out of my head? He's not even worth thinking of! She shut her eyes and bolded her hand into a fist. Now, she felt worried that Zuko didn't escape and was badly injured. Artymis made a small groan. Great! Prince Zuko is scarred in my mind - like I'm not already? With Zhao and all! Thinking of Zhao, made her fist shake and Artymis kept her eyes shut and her lips were tight shut.

"Artymis?" Katara's soft and worried made Artymis open her eyes and put a normal face on.

"Yeah?" Artymis said.

"You ok?" Katara asked, she looked concerned.

"Yeah," Artymis lied. "I'm alright."

"Glad to hear it," Katara smiled and looked behind her to the windows. "You ready?" She asked.

Artymis turned to see the sun about an inch above the horizon, making the sky a pinkish-red beautiful color. "Yeah, I am." Artymis muttered. She closed her eyes. I really hope Zuko is alright - wait, what am I worried about? Artymis turned her attention back to Shyu and Sokka who were walking back to them. No Zuko, no more worried about being captured.

Then again, a voice said in her mind, he helped you more than once - in ways you know and might not know.

That's true. Artymis thought. But, he acts so cruel.

Maybe he's not, the voice said, Maybe he's just misunderstood.

Misunderstood? Artymis thought and remembered that feeling.

"Lady Artymis, take cover." Shyu said, he sent a flame to all five strings of five separate bags full of powder. Each powder bag was in one open-mouth of a dragon's head. They were explosions.

"Shyu - please." Artymis whispered to him, about her name again. She stood behind Shyu behind the thick pole.

"Hope this works!" Katara said.

"It will!" Sokka said, with pride that this was all his idea.

They all shut their eyes as there was a sound of an explosion. Smoke arise and Artymis sprinted forward to the doors. She felt for the two door-handles, and when she did, pulled with all her strength. It wouldn't budge. She quickly pushed. It still wouldn't budge. "Come on!" She muttered under her breath. "It's won't open - it's sealed shut!" She yelled over her shoulder to the others. She backed away from the doors and sighed.

"It didn't work." Shyu said gravely and sighed.

"It's gonna open for me!" Artymis muttered angrily. She random slashes of air with her arms towards the doors. 'Why won't it open!" She yelled. She threw her arms up and sent another wave of air. None of her attacks did any good. Artymis threw her arms around in frustration. She groaned angrily.

"Artymis," Katara laid a hand on her shoulder, "I'm sorry, but there's nothing else we can do."

Artymis relaxed her body and turned around to Katara and Sokka, "I'm sorry if I put you both in danger," She looked to Shyu. "And I'm sorry if you betrayed your country for me and nothing."

"Wait a second," Katara mumbled and smiled brightly. "Sokka - you're a genius!"

Artymis rose an eyebrow at Katara, "Katara, are you feeling ok?"

"Art," Sokka said coolly, "Let her keep thinking." Artymis frowned and sent a small air blow and it hit him in the eye. "Ow!" Sokka rubbed his eyes. "That hurt!"

"You deserved it." Artymis said, she turned back to Katara. "Ok, please explain to me how Sokka's plan worked."

Katara smirked, "It looked like it did." She turned to Artymis and Shyu. "I have a plan..."

"How did she get in!" Cried the leader of the Fire Sages, frustrated obviously. He eyes the shadow of the Avatar from beneath the doors to Avatar Roku.

"I am not sure." Shyu said, "But she did somehow, because look at the scratch mark - " he pointed to the ashes on the door " - and you can see her shadow from beneath the doors."

"Open the doors at once!" The leader said.

Artymis smiled from behind pillar. She leaned over a bit to see the Fire Sages falling for the lie that Shyu had told. Katara's plan was working just fine. The plan was that when the Sages open the doors, and see Momo instead of the Avatar, Katara and the others will distract the others, while Artymis rushes in and communicates with Avatar Roku. Piece of cake! Artymis thought and hid herself completely once again behind the pillar. She could feel fire emerging from the Sages. She took a deep breath and turned around. She did it too quickly though. Artymis felt herself slip, she was falling. She suddenly felt strong arms wrap around her and stop her fall. Artymis looked up and saw Zuko's face.

"Zuko?" She breathed, Artymis felt the top of her head press against his chest as she looked up at him.

"I told you," Zuko reminded, "I'll catch you when you fall. I promised."

Artymis stared up at him, and a small smile escape from her. She straighten up and pulled away from Zuko.

"Art!" Katara called out.

That's my cue! Artymis spun around and was about to start running, but felt Zuko hands restrain her. She turned around and glared at him. "What!" She snapped.

"You won't make it." Zuko said, "It's nearly sunset, and Zhao's soldiers have already entered the temple. You'll get killed." Artymis could've sworn there was a hint of guilt in his golden eyes and voice. "And, I need you alive." The guilt disappeared from Zuko's eyes and voice.

"Now, Lady Artymis!" Shyu yelled out urgently.

"Zuko, I need to!" She tried to loosen his grip on her arms. "I have to talk to Avatar Roku!" Artymis hissed angrily, "You promised I could!"

"I don't want you killed!" Zuko whispered to her, he surprised himself at these words. Artymis stopped moving and blinked. "I mean - I can't have you killed!" Zuko took back, he didn't know what cause him to say 'I don't'. What's going on with me? he thought.

"Well," Artymis felt herself fuming, oblivious to the sincere and urgency Zuko had in his voice. "I don't care!" She looked out the window, two minutes left to sunset.

"I honestly didn't want to do this." Zuko muttered, he hit the back of Artymis' head, knocking her out. Artymis felt pain from the back of her head. Her vision blurred and she fell backwards into Zuko's opened arms. By the time she was in his arms, Artymis was already sleeping. "I'm sorry." Zuko muttered, carrying the Avatar in bridal style.

"Art!" Sokka yelled.

Zuko stepped away from the pillar, into the open. He looked to the traitor Sage and the two Water Tribe peasants. "The Lady Avatar is coming with me." He announced.

Katara gaped at the sight of an unconscious Artymis in Zuko's arms. "Artymis!" Katara yelled, and suddenly felt her arms pinned against her back by the Fire Sage whom she was fighting against.

"Chain the prisoners up." The Sage leader commanded.

Katara and Sokka were chained against a pillar, along with Shyu. The three watch the Fire prince walk down the steps with Artymis in his arms.

"Now," Zuko muttered as he walked away. "I can finally earn my father's love back." He side-glanced at Artymis, And I have you to thank for, Avatar.

Yeah right, like a hit on the head is gonna knock me out! Artymis thought. She opened her eyes and kicked. Zuko nearly dropped the Avatar at this unexpected move. Artymis pushed Zuko aside and ran up the stairs, to her friends.

"Get back here, Avatar!" Zuko yelled angrily.

"After this!" Artymis yelled back and headed for her friends.

"Artymis- go for the doors!" Katara yelled.

Artymis just noticed the doors that were closing. She changed course and head for them instead. A few Sages tried to block her way. "Might wanna stand back!" Artymis warned. They didn't. "You asked for it!" She yelled and sent an air attack with her arms, she slid through the opening between the doors. The doors sealed behind her and a glow blinded her eyes.

"Ok," Artymis got up from the floor. "I'm here. It's sunset." She looked up at the statue, "What am I suppose to do now?" She asked out loud. She straighten herself up and turned around to look up at the jewel that sent a ray of glow to the statue. "Am I suppose to touch it?" She guessed.

"It's good to see you, Lady Artymis." An old, yet fatherly voice spoke.

Swirling clouds surrounded Artymis and she blinked in wonder. The clouds faded away, and Artymis found herself at the top of a mountain, high in the sky. She spun around and saw a man wearing rich Fire Nation clothing. She realized who this was in an instance.

Avatar Roku.

Artymis bowed down and straighten up. "Avatar Roku?" She asked, Artymis never heard her voice so nervous before.

Avatar Roku smiled, "Yes, it is I." He continued, "First of all: how are you feeling?"

Artymis nodded her head, "Oh, fine."

"But you feel deceived, do you not?" Roku asked.

Artymis nodded, lowering her eyes.

"We all get deceived." Roku said, "The man that lied to you - Zhao - is one of the Fire Nation. He tried to gain your trust, and he nearly did if your friend hadn't saved you."
"Katara?" Artymis asked, lifting her face.

Roku shook his head, "No, another."

"Sokka?" Artymis offered, "Anduril? Appa?"

"Another one," Roku simply said. "Yet this is not what I wanted to discuss with you."

"I know." Artymis said, "A comet and the Fire Nation, right?"

"Yes, now listen carefully." Roku explained, "A hundred years ago, Fire Lord Sozin used a comet to send a deadly stroke at the other three elemental nations. He and his army harnessed it's incredible powers, in doing so, the Fire nation became stronger."

"And let me guess: it's returning?" Artymis asked.

"Yes," Roku answered. "By the end of the summer."

"How do I stop it then?"

"You must master the three other elements: water, earth, and fire." Roku answered, "But you must do it be summer's end, and must confront the Fire lord Ozai."

"Or...?" Artymis asked, hoping nothing bad would happen if she didn't master the elements.

"Or the Fire Nation will become stronger than now, stronger than you can imagine." Roku said, "And if Fire Lord Ozai does call for comet and harnesses it's powers, not even the Avatar will stop this conjunction."

Artymis' shoulders drew back and stopped playing with her hands. "I can't master the three elements though!" She burst out, "I haven't mastered water, earth, and fire! I - I - I - "

"I know," Roku interrupted softly. "Mastering all four elements takes many years of discipline and learning, but if you are to save our world, you must do it by summer's end."

"I can't though!" Artymis said.

"Artymis," Roku said fatherly, that reminded Artymis of Gyato. She held back her tears. "You have mastered the elements before a thousand times in your past lives. You can do it again." He then added, "I know that after reviving from a sleeping spell after 100 years, you don't know who to trust or listen to. What are lies and truths? Who is who? Who is hiding behind a mask? What truly did happen?" Artymis' hands balled into fists, Zhao's lies taught her enough. "But, listen to your family. Your friends, the voices of pure souls, watch who is who."

"I know Zhao is not to be trusted." Artymis muttered, staring hard at the ground.

Roku frowned a bit, "Don't feel so much hatred, your thoughts will betray you."

Artymis relaxed and sighed. She looked up and asked, "Anything else?"

"Yes," Roku said. "An Avatar cannot be involved with anyone. It never was, and never will be."

"What?" Artymis stared at him in confusion. "I don't understand."

Roku looked at her, and closed his eyes. "The Winter Solstice is ending." He paused, "A great threat is awaiting you outside."

Artymis closed her eyes and an image was placed in her mind. The image was first of Katara, Sokka, and Shyu chained against a pillar. Then, it showed Zuko chained to a pillar too, but not with her friends. The image shifted to the doors. Outside them were four soldiers and Zhao. Artymis' right hand balled into a fist and anger rose in her.

"I can help you face the threat," Roku offered. "but only if you are ready, and will not perform it out of anger. But for your friends and the people."

"How will I talk to you again, though?" Artymis asked, eyes still closed.

"You will find a way." Roku answered. "Relax, now."

Artymis inhaled deeply. She let her anger for Zhao fade, and only thought of her friends. The flame symbol of the Fire Nation glowed brightly on her forehead, and flame marks were glowing over her arms, like the water waves and arrows did. "I am ready." Artymis said to Roku, eyes still close, nervously.

"Now, let me help you, Lady Artymis."

"Sokka, how will Art make it out of this?" Katara asked Sokka, watching the sealed doors nervously.

"When those doors open and the Avatar comes out, unleash your firebending power - but I want the Avatar alive!" Commander Zhao shouted.

"How are we gonna make it out of this?" Sokka whispered back to his sister.

"Will she even come out?" Shyu asked.

Katara bit her lower lip nervously. "I'm not even sure if we'll even see her come out."

"Will you lot shut up!" Zuko yelled.

Katara glared at him, "At least I'm worried about what'll happen to my friend!"

"Shut up, scar-head!" Sokka insulted.

Shyu remained silent. He knew that he was a traitor, but he dare not insult the son of the Fire Lord.

"Water Tribe peasant!" Zuko shot back at Sokka.

"Ghost-boy!" Sokka yelled. Katara shut her eyes and silently wished they would shut up.

"Coward!" Zuko yelled.

"Oh yeah!" Sokka yelled back, "Like you're not?"

"Shut up!" Katara shouted. There was silence. "Finally," She sighed.

"She is coming." Shyu whispered, watching the doors. Katara and Sokka looked at the doors, where swirling clouds were emerging.

The doors slowly started to open and a pair of glowing silver eyes, and beneath it, the Fire Nation flame symbol glowed brightly.

"Artymis!" Katara warned, "Get back!"

"You're gonna get killed!" Sokka warned.

"Unleash your firebending - now!" Commander Zhao ordered. Zuko held his breath while the Avatar's friends gasped and tried to warn her.

Six or more punches of burning fire sped fast towards the Avatar. But there was no scream of shout of pain or of help. The fire became like a tornado and surrounded the figure. The fire burn out and revealed two people. Artymis had her eyes closed, the flame symbol burning brightly on her forehead and the flames glowed up her arms. Her hair was like water waves now, and her long skirt billowed. Avatar Roku was standing right behind her, his eyes glowing a silvery color.

"Avatar Roku!" Shyu gasped.

"What!" Katara and Sokka chorused, staring in wonder at the two Avatars.

"Impossible!" Zhao shouted, taking a step back.

Artymis had her arms outstretched before her and her face was slightly lowered. Avatar Roku outstretched his arms as well. He moved his right arm to the side in a fast move. Artymis' right arm mimicked his move. Both of these moves caused a wide wave of fire hit the row of soldiers and Zhao off their feet. The other four remaining Fire Sages backed away, but were also hit by the wave. Katara, Sokka, Shyu, and Zuko had some mercy. The fire wave did indeed hit them, but did not have any harmful effect on them. Instead, the fire wave burn the chains that chained them against the pillar and freed them.

Katara, Sokka, and Shyu held onto the pillar though as they watch Roku break the floor into two, Artymis his puppet in a way.

"We need to evacuate!" Shyu said urgently. "This temple will fall!"

"We're not leaving without Artymis!" Katara argued, Sokka nodded.

Zuko tried to runaway, but falling bits of the ceiling came down and broke into tiny pieces on the floor. He pinned himself against the pillar.

"Get back to the ship!" Zhao shouted to his soldiers, running to the stairs.

Artymis, still mimicking Roku's moves, flicked her wrist up and raised her wrist up. Flames erupt from the crack in the floor and exploded like separate mini volcanoes. The ground shook. Roku outstretched his arms and placed his hands on Artymis' shoulders, his eyes closed. Artymis stood still with her hands dropped to her side.

Well done, Roku's voice spoke in Artymis' absent mind.

Wind, smoke, and fire surrounded the two Avatars like a tornado. It faded away and Artymis was standing all alone. She opened her eyes and no longer felt Roku's presence. The symbols on her forehead and arms disappeared. Artymis swayed side to side a bit and tried to stand. She lost her balance and was falling forward.

Katara and Sokka didn't notice at first, they were too busy shielding their faces from the exploding mini volcanoes. Shyu was nowhere to be seen. The only one who did notice Artymis return to normal and falling, was Zuko. He rushed forward and caught Artymis in his arms, for the third time. He knelt on one knee and held Artymis. One arm under her back, the other over her knees. Zuko moved a lock of brown hair away from Artymis' face. Artymis stirred and her face slightly turn to Zuko, her eyes beginning to open. At this time, the ground stopped shaking and the mini volcanoes stopped. But the real-life volcano outside the temple, just began to burn.

"...Zuko?" Artymis whispered.

Zuko smiled at her. He cupped her cheek, "I promised to catch you when you fall." He reminded her.

Artymis closed her eyes briefly and opened them. "I feel so tired." She muttered to him.

Zuko held her closer, "I know. So am I."

"I'm sorry..." Artymis whispered sincerely, "...if you were banished." She closed her eyes and began to fall asleep.

Zuko looked at her and his hand moved from her cheek to her waist. "It's alright," He said, "but you can help me return home as a prince once again." He placed his chin over her head, holding her more closer.

"Let her go!" A voice shouted.

Zuko got to his feet, holding the Avatar still in bridal style. He turned around and saw the two Water Tribe kids. "You again?" He asked rudely.

"I said," Katara said dangerously. "Let her go."

"And who's gonna make me?" Zuko asked her, "You? A Water Tribe peasant?"

"You asked for it!" Katara yelled, she was about to step forth but Sokka pulled her out of the way, "Sokka!"

"Big brother got it!" Sokka pointed, Katara spun around. Anduril broke into the wall and glared at Zuko, his eyes hard. He gave out a roar.

Damn, Zuko thought.

"Now you might wanna let her go." Sokka said.

Zuko realized he was no match for a dragon, especially a very angry one. He kneeled down and carefully placed Artymis on the ground. He looked up at the dragon, who watched his every move. Zuko reached in his side pocket for the lavender suitor's rose that belonged to Artymis. But the silver dragon growled dangerously. Zuko didn't attempt to touch the lavender rose. He looked at Artymis and back up. He was thrown off his feet by the dragon's tail.

"Come on!" Sokka yelled to Katara, both of the siblings got on Anduril's back. Anduril picked Artymis up with his claws very carefully, and soared away from the temple.

"Artymis? Artymis?" Katara called out, when Anduril placed Artymis with her and Sokka.

Artymis' eyes fluttered open. She blinked and sat up. She looked around wildly. "Where is he?" She asked.

"What a nice way to thank your friends!" Sokka joked.

He's right, Anduril said in Artymis' mind.

"No!" Artymis said quickly, "Where's Zuko?"

Katara and Sokka gave her a confused look, Artymis could feel Anduril's curiosity. "Why did you wanna know?" Katara asked.

"Well, he and I made a deal - " Artymis was cut off by a fire punch that went pass her ear. She nearly lost balance on Anduril.

"It's that Zhao jerk!" Sokka yelled, looking over to the side.

"Zhao?" Artymis was sparked with interest and anger, her hands in shaking fists. "I have a score to settle with him." She looked over to the side. She could see Zhao's ship and him on deck, yelling at Shyu and the other Fire Sages. "Be back!" Artymis said over her shoulder.

"No, wait!" Too late. Artymis jumped off of Anduril. Katara and Sokka sighed, "She never can give us a break." Katara shook her head.

"We'll gonna have to tell her that, after yelling at her for running away." Sokka said.

Artymis landed on her feet on the ships' deck. She straighten her back and glared at Zhao, who stared at her in shock. "Hello, Zhao." Artymis said, with no kindness or smile.

Zhao smirked, "Artymis, I - "

"You still dare call my by my name!" Artymis didn't know what overcame her. "I only allow friends to speak to me like that!"

Zhao wasn't surprised by this, "Then what would you like me to call you, then? Your Highness? Lady Artymis?"

Artymis' arm lifted up at fast speed, it sent a vertical wave of air towards Zhao. He easily blocked it with a fire attack. Zhao sent fire punches at Artymis. Artymis dodged and started to attack Zhao with uncontrolled emotions and power. Once or twice, the soldiers made an attempt to help their commander, but Zhao stopped them.

"No!" He shouted to them, "This fight is between the Lady Avatar and me!"

"You bet it is!" Artymis shouted, her hair was all tangled up now. She waved her arms around and the wind obeyed her will.

Zhao tried to attack her, but Artymis favored haste over cleverness. He had to back up every now and then. Zhao had to dodge a lot of her attacks and he couldn't really attack the Avatar. He groaned.

"What's the matter?" Artymis asked, her eyes narrowing at him. "Your lies are no longer good enough for me to listen to even a single word, weakling!" Artymis shouted with rage.

Zhao dodged another of her attacks, he had to bend down to hid knees though. When he looked up to the Avatar, he gasped. An air wave hit him in his stomach and send her flying to the side of his ship.

"I honestly thought that I could trust you!" Artymis shouted, standing before Zhao who was gasping for breath. "I honestly thought that suitor's rose meant something - guess I was wrong!" She threw her arm down diagonally and Zhao felt wind hit him on his head. "I thought I could actually see you as a friend!" Artymis did another vertical air wave. She stopped and breathed. "You're so full of lies." Artymis hissed at Zhao. Artymis noticed Shyu on the side, she turned to him with not as much anger. "Shyu!" She cried out and ran to him. But Shyu shook his head.

"Artymis - Go!" He warned.

"But, I - "

"I'll be fine!" Shyu yelled, his eyes were full of panic.

"I'm not gonna leave you!" Artymis shouted, "You helped me!"

"Go!" Shyu warned, the soldiers kept their tight grip on him and the other Fire Sages. "We will meet again!"

"Avatar!"

"Watch out!" Shyu warned and his eyes widen with horror, Artymis turned around and saw Zhao aim a fire punch at her.

Artymis suddenly felt a silver scaly tail wrapped firmly around her waist and lifted her off the deck. Artymis didn't struggle, she watched Shyu and Zhao fade away like an ant. She breathed heavily and looked up. Anduril placed her on Appa's saddle, where Katara and Sokka were waiting. Artymis didn't look at Anduril or her friends, not even Momo. She kept her head down, her hair in the way of the view of her face. Artymis turned her back on Sokka and Katara when she sat down on Appa's saddle, where she could oversee the ocean. The ocean reflected the dark night and the full moon, but they looked like comets when Appa rushed out of the Fire Nation border and Anduril too. Artymis felt the wind lightly press her face and removed the hair blocking her face, but she kept her head lowered. Artymis had her hands on her lap and they bold into shaking fists again. She shut her eyes and felt the tears sting her eyes. Artymis gasped, anyone could easily tell she was crying - or at least trying to hide it. She lifted her face and tried to hold back a sob and the tears.

I lost Shyu, like I lost Gyatso. It's all because of me. I don't know what to do, Avatar Roku.

Prince Zuko stood on the deck of his ship. He managed to escape from the crumbling temple, and Commander Zhao. He was out of the Fire Nation, he was again sailing on Earth Kingdom waters. Zuko stared out to the ocean ahead of him. The moon was glowing bright as well as the stars in the dark night sky. But he paid no attention to it, instead he thought of Artymis.

Zuko never seen her in such a state back at the temple. He thought of what she said when he saved her from falling after Avatar Roku disappeared. "I'm sorry... if you were banished." Zuko heard sincere in her voice when she said it, he also remembered the promise he had made to her. He looked up when a familiar dragon and bison past high over his ship. It was the Avatar.

"I promise," Zuko muttered, he could see Artymis' dark figure against the brightness of the moon. "I'll catch you when you fall." He finished, as if she could hear him.

Artymis buried her face in her hands and cried. Katara went over to her friend and gave her a hug. Sokka did the same, Momo snuck somewhere in the group hug. Anduril looked at Artymis and lend her emotional support. Appa slowed down his speed and let a low groan, meaning he was also part of the group hug somehow.

Artymis still buried her face in her hands and her shoulders shook. I honestly thought that Zhao's suitor's rose meant something, she thought, I honestly thought someone cared for me. I should've known all along that he was lying about everything. I should've seen it coming. Artymis then remembered what Prince Zuko promised her.

"I promise to catch you when you fall."

Author's Note: Finally! I don't think the way I wrote this chapter was all that great, especially towards the end. But, I'll let you determine that. And yes, my pename went from "Artymis" to "Elemental Maiden" - sorry about that! Anyways, I need a few ideas please. I think the next chapter won't be "The Waterbending Scroll", atleast not yet. Next one will be made up. And I think 'Shang' will make an appearance. But I do need ideas, please, my head full of ideas is running low! And please tell me what mistakes I made, please?

Thanks to my reviewers:

Firework: I hope my explanation to you was ok. Anyways, think you have any ideas you like to share, please? lol

And-You-Are: Thanks a bunch. Think you could also lend a few more of your lovely ideas?