The waters were a beautiful orange as the sun rose. Near the shore, a small makeshift camp had been made. Its occupants, Aang, Azula, Zuko, and Appa, were still fast asleep. The prior day's adventure was so severe that their tired frames did not wake from the sounds of people approaching.
"What are these kids doing here?," an older man barked, "We are supposed to have this set up by tonight."
"Bums," a young man complained, "I thought the Ember guard kept them off the beach."
The old man just shook his head. "I remember my grandfather talking about this place. It used to be where the nobles of the Fire Nation would come to blow off some steam. Really ritz place." The old man gestured to the sleeping teens. "Now, it's just a place for runaways to space out."
Placing his toolbox down, the old man searched for the right tool for the job. "Only one thing to do in times like this," the old man found his prize, "and it ain't pretty." Pulling out a hammer and iron plate, the elderly man proceeded to smash the two objects together. The resulting sound was so loud and obnoxious that the old fellow's younger cohort had to cover his ears.
The trio jumped at the sound. Startled and dazed, they groaned as they ran from their sleeping bags. Appa took it the worst. The skybison bellowed so loud that the resulting air blast floored the two men.
Azula seemed to have a similar idea. A flame came to light in her hands as she yelled "Who in the world dares to wake me up in such a manner!?"
Aang was shocked at Azula's quick snap to violence. Zuko, who was more used to his sister's temper, pushed his sister's arm down with a disapproving nod. Azula huffed.
The men got to their feet best they could. The older fellow needed his co-worker's support.
"We're here for the flipping Cirus, girlie," the old man gestured to the crew of workers unloading supplies from komodo rhinos.
"Girlie?" Azula questioned coldly.
Aang's delight, however, led him to take over the conversation. "The circus?," Aang practically sang, "with the trapeze, the elephant lions, and the clowns?"
"The very same one, kid" the old man dismissed, "Now, if you kids could be so kind and beat it!"
Zuko had already finished rolling up their sleeping bags by then. While Azula flashed an orange flame at the man, she otherwise let it go. Aang, however, was busy pestering the man with questions. "When does it open?", "Where do we get tickets?", etc.
"Should we stop him?" Zuko was leading Appa away from the future building site.
Azula shook her head no. She liked how much the young Avatar was frustrating the old man.
"Azula? Is that you?" A girl's voice cried out. The voice was familiar to Azula. When she heard it, she stiffed up. Sweat formed on her forehead. It was accompanied by a cold, clammy feeling. It couldn't be her, could it?
Azula turned slowly to see a girl of about her own age. Dressed in pink and sporting a large ponytail, this fire islander wore a sweet smile. Practically skipping, the girl rushed over to the nervous Azula.
Zuko crossed his arms, "Isn't that Ty Lee? That cheary girl who would never leave you alone."
"Azula it is you," Ty Lee exclaimed. She stood inches from Azula. Leaning her face close to Azula's face, Ty Lee grabbed Azula's hand. "It's been so long, Azula. How have you been? I bet so much has happened."
"Well, you know, just the usual." Azula was trying to maintain her cold demeanor. However, there were small cracks here and there. Over emphasizing random words, stuttering at random points, and even the occasional slight voice crack. "My family and I were just l-living in Umbie. Until the volcano erupted. We got out. Helped that we managed to find the Avatar."
"You found the Avatar!?" Ty Lee exclaimed, leaning even closer in.
Azula told Ty Lee the story of their adventure on Roku Island. Azula was doing her best to smile. She thought Ty Lee would like a smile. The grin was too wide and too teethy. Her eyebrows were curved down with nerves. Ty Lee didn't seem to notice, she was enraptured with Azula's story.
Zuko was starting to get scared. He had never seen his sister like this before. That face was the stuff of nightmares. What was going on?
"That is so cool," Ty Lee lifted up both of Azula's hands, "I wish I could go on an adventure like that!"
Azula made a nervous laugh and looked to Zuko. Zuko seemed unnerved by the sight of his sister's face. There was a wordless exchange between the siblings: should we? Can we? It dawned on Zuko what was happening. Azula was too afraid to make the decision. The young fire islander had never known his sister to be indecisive.
Finally, Zuko cracked. "Maybe you could come with us?"
Ty Lee squeed. Jumping up and down, she took Azula's hands with her, flailing the firebender's arms up and down. Zuko expected Azula to snap her hands back, but Azula didn't move. Her face locked in the scary grin.
"I can't wait," Ty Lee beamed, "But I got to do my show tonight. It's the last show of the season."
"The last show of the season?," Zuko was confused, "but the spring is just starting."
"It's too hot in the summer, silly," Ty Lee giggled, "It's not like we perform in the Earth Kingdoms. Can you imagine getting a bunch of people together in a big top tent in that heat? We use so much fire in our performances people would pass out."
Ty Lee had taken the tone of a big sister teaching a younger sibling. "Everyone would rather be at a lake or a beach. The winter and fall are perfect, though. Still warm but not too much."
"Well, isn't that unfortunate. Better luck next Avatar cycle." Azula spoke fast like she was trying to end this quickly.
Ty Lee groaned at first, but her demeanor swung back. "I know! Why don't you stay the night and come to our show? It's just one night. I can even get you free tickets! Then, afterwards, I would be free to join you!"
"We really couldn't. We're on a very tight schedule," Azula had gone back to her old cold attitude, as if she felt safe.
Aang rushed over so quickly that a small sandstorm formed. The airborne sand landed in clumps all over Azula. She wasn't amused.
"You can get us into the circus?" Aang was as giddy as a child.
"Aang, we have a schedule to keep," Azula was doing her best to get the sand off her.
Zuko stepped up. "We can spare one day for a show," Zuko seemed happier than usual, "I haven't seen the Akatatsu Circus since Uncle took us to the last Alliance Gathering."
Ty Lee let out a "oooh." "Wasn't that the last time we met?"
"I think it was," Zuko rubbed his chin, "You were with your sisters and Mai had tagged along."
"She really wanted to sit next to you too, Zuzu," Azula's voice was mocking and fierce. She was prodding him. Trying to make a point to her brother. "You were so embarrassed when she held your hand." She put emphasis on the last part of the statement. Trying as hard she could to cue her brother into her real meaning.
Zuko just shrugged. Azula's attempt to get through to him had fallen on its face.
"It's settled!," Ty Lee declared with glee, "I'll get your seats reserved."
Azula nodded with a "great" as the young girl scampered off.
A moment passed before Azula turned to her brother in fury. "Why did you suggest she could come along!?"
"What was I supposed to say?" Zuko shot back, "Besides, I thought you wanted her to come along."
"Come along?" Azula was in disbelief, "Yes, I want that 'girly girl' with us. So she can waste our time with foolish endeavors. Like making her nails look that perfect. Or getting her hair done that immaculate. Or finding that amazing peach perfume she was wearing."
Zuko shrugged, "She's been traveling with a circus. I'm sure she can handle things." Zuko sniffed. "I didn't notice any peach smell."
Azula got red. "You didn't have her obnoxiously in your face the whole time. It was impossible not to smell."
Aang, however, ignored the sibling's squabble. Putting his arms around both of them, he started "Come on, we deserve a little time to ourselves. Besides, the monks took me to the circus the last time I visited the Fire Nation. If it's anything like last time, this will be amazing." Aang beamed with excitement.
Not too far away, a familiar convoy was close to their destination. Sokka's ship was trailing behind the shobo-shi vessels, despite carrying the lion's share of refugees. The young prince was out on deck in his finest robes.
Bato could see the tensed shoulders and rigid stance of the young prince.
"What's eating your seal blubber today?" Bato sipped his morning tea.
Sokka was surprised, "aren't you worried?"
"About what?," the old commander wiped his brow. The heat of the Fire Islands was unforgiving to the arctic resident.
"The send-off." Sokka looked towards the looming island. "Ishigaki belongs to both the Shobo-shi and the Southern Earth Kingdom. Things could get rocky."
Bato rolled his eyes. He hoped that wasn't meant to be a pun. If Hakoda had rubbed off on the boy, then it most certainly was one. "The Dai Li will speak with the Fire Captain. If the man is good on his word, we will be given permission to dock."
"And if he isn't?"
"The Dai Li were made to guard Ba Singe Se. King Kuei has stretched them thin guarding his new kingdom. He tried to turn a police force into an army." Bato smirked. "They have no chance of capturing this boat."
Sokka wasn't reassured. The child remained stiff.
"Leading is partly about appearance," Bato tried to keep quiet, "Normally, you have that part down. It's the other stuff you generally struggle with."
"Thanks." Sokka mocked.
"We've been lucky these last two years. No one has given us trouble in these waters. It's easy to look the part when things are easy" Bato pointed to the island, "but your mercy mission has us sailing into danger."
Bato poked the boy's chest. "This is when it's hard to look like a leader. It's also when it's the most important." The naval Commander set his arms apart, trying to mimic the width of the ship and the size of the crew. "These men follow you. If you look scared, they'll be scared. You're the one who's supposed to have the plan, after all."
Sokka took a moment before nodding in agreement.
"Good," Bato smiled, "Now, go be the captain they need."
Swallowing his fear, the teen prince tried his best to be himself. He may have done it too well.
Confidently striding across the deck, the boy stiffly asked soldiers how they were and greeted them in an overly formal, royal manner.
Bato smacked his forehead. "Or you can overdo it and let everyone know something is wrong."
Zuko led Appa to a clearing just outside of town. The skybison took refuge under the cooling shadows of the nearby forest trees. As Zuko began to put down their supplies, his stomach growled.
Putting down his bag, he rummaged around for some food. "I guess we could have the miso for breakfast." Eyeing the stone box containing the miso paste. "We should make this last. Don't know where we might run short."
Zuko was surprised to see his sister pacing the clearing. She was mumbling to herself. Stuff about her clothes, her hair, what to bring with her, and other odd topics.
Aang walked up next to Zuko. Zuko could tell Aang was equally confused by the display.
"Has she ever done this before?" Aang took a seat. Dropping some wood for the breakfast fire.
Zuko absentmindedly got the spark rocks from his bag. "Never," he let the words fall out.
"Should we say something?" Aang made the stand for the stone pot.
"Usually my sister prefers to handle things on her own."
Zuko lifted a stone pot from his bag. "I'll go to the river and get some fresh water."
With Zuko gone, Aang listened to Azula's rantings. It sounded like Azula was going off on a battle strategy.
"I only have one outfit. I didn't prepare for this fight. No makeup. Money is tight. I can't waste it. However, I can't expect to succeed without some preparations. My plan of attack needs to be good too. What stratagem works in this situation? Direct? Indirect? Feint?"
Azula screamed when Aang suddenly appeared before her.
"Are you okay?" Aang was genuinely worried.
Azula needed a moment to catch her breath. With a huff and puff, she grabbed Aang by the collar. "Do that again, airhead, and we won't need to worry about the Water Confederation catching you anymore."
Pushing back against the flustered Azula, Aang pleaded, "It just seemed like something was bothering you."
"Nothing is bothering me," Azula was getting back her control, "I am planning our next moves. We are staying here for the day. It sets us greatly off schedule."
Azula's demeanor was perfect. Her poker face was stone. However, Aang found a chip. "I don't know. Zuko said he had never seen you act like this before."
"We didn't have the fate of the world on our shoulders before yesterday, Aang." Azula moved to the soon-to-be campfire. She began to gather rocks to enclose the firepit.
"You didn't act this way before you met that girl, Ty Lee." Aang wouldn't let up.
"Aang, do you really think girlie girl got under my skin?" Azula took a seat, "She might have great skin and a refreshing personality, but that girl is more of an airhead than you. It's not like she could get to me."
Aang sat across from Azula and gave an intense stare. "No, there is something going on." Aang put his finger on his chin, "do you like her, Azula?"
Azula's poker face cracked with fear. She quickly recomposed herself, but that moment of sincerity told Aang everything he needed to know. Still, she tried to fall back on her oldest trick: lying.
"I don't like her, Aang," Azula tried to show as much disinterest as possible by examining her nails, "She's an obnoxious dope. Has been since we were kids. Why would someone like me be interested in her? You know, we are both girls, Aang?" Azula's eyes darted to the left. "Besides, why would someone like her be interested in me?"
Aang sat back. "I don't know. Not sure what you both being girls would have to do with it. The monks didn't really talk about this stuff much. People just kind of loved whoever they felt like loving, from what I could see. Not sure why people liked who they liked. Some of them even liked more than one person at a time." Aang shrugged.
"Sounds dreadful," Azula mocked, "We don't really do that kind of thing in the fire islands. My great grandfather was pretty stern on that during his reign as Fire Lord."
"But, didn't you say that the Fire Nation broke apart? And that there is no real Fire Lord?"
Azula sighed. "The Fire Nation did fall apart, but my uncle is technically the Fire Lord. It's more for politics." Azula looked away as she got back to the point, "I don't know what he thinks of it. Knowing him, he'd be fine with it as long as it wasn't me doing it. I expect the same from mom."
Azula wrapped her arms around her legs. "Doesn't really matter what they think. Any of my Uncle's edicts aren't even suggestions for the warlords. No one would listen even if his words had some weight. Most people have issues with that kind of 'love' around here."
Before Aang could respond, Zuko had returned with the water. When he saw Azula looking forlorn, he stopped in his tracks.
"Is everything okay?," he placed the stone pot on the stand.
Azula looked to Aang. Aang took a moment before he started. "Azula and I," he paused, "we were talking about how we were going to make up our lost time. She was just a little worried that General Jeong Jeong might not be there when we got there. I do have a lot to learn before the Great Comet arrives. Can't lose too much time learning my first element" Azula gave a weak smile to Aang as she recomposed herself.
Zuko looked at Aang. Then over to Azula. Zuko sighed. With the spark rocks, he lit the fire and began to prepare the miso soup.
After an awkward morning of greeting everyone he saw and asking questions about their families, Sokka strangely felt relieved when the ships finally arrived at Ishigaki.
As they got close, the Shobo-Shi vessels got ahead of the Water Confederation battleship. The captain had already mentioned their intentions to land first and get approval.
After a short while, the shobo-shi returned and gave their approval to dock. Sokka had a sigh of relief. One that he quickly tried to cover up.
Following the Shobo-Shi, Sokka's ship docked in a harbor built into the mountain itself. From the smoothness of the cave, it was clearly manmade. The work of the allied Southern Earth Kingdom, no doubt.
Once docking was complete, Sokka signaled his men to let the refugees go. Their number came out of the hold in an orderly line. A Shobo-Shi bureaucrat stood next to one wearing the uniform of the Southern Earth Kingdom. The pair seemed to file out their own separate application for each refugee.
"It seems inefficient," Sokka mused, "We'll be here for days at this rate."
Bato shrugged, "the land belongs to both countries. They must require dual citizenship to live here."
"Isn't that a little extreme?"
"Ishigaki has been a prize for our forces here for a reason. With two armies protecting it and the natural defense of its cave, we just can't get a foothold in it." Bato eyed their vessel, "Even if we launched a sneak attack now, they'd just drop the roof on us and end it."
Bato gestured towards the two bureaucrats, "but an alliance like this is shaky. The second one group can have citizens here without the permission of the other, that group is going to claim ownership."
"But this is the Shobo-Shi's land," Sokka interjected.
"Originally, yes, but Warlord Ukano gave King Kuei a right to these lands to get him to build a base here," Bato stroked his chin, "Can't say it hasn't worked out for him. Safe in his bunker, that coward is untouchable."
Bato adjusted his shoulders, "only a matter of time until King Kuei pushes his weight on that coward, if he hasn't already. I expect they'll end up in a skirmish and our people will claim this place as a reward. This alliance isn't built to last."
Sokka stood upright, "never took you for a political analyst.
"It's really Hakoda," Bato jokes, "he's always been the better half of our friendship."
They were interrupted by the arrival of one of Sokka's soldiers. "Your highness, your presence was requested by Governor Ukano. He sent a representative to retrieve you."
Sokka looked to Bato, "is it a trap?"
"Not necessarily," Bato responded, "You did have the captain's respect."
"I don't know, this seems off." Sokka withdrew into himself.
Bato turned the boy around, away from the soldier. He leaned in closely and spoke softly, "it's definitely a trap, but we've never gotten any intel on this place before. Make a show of going in alone and we'll have someone tail you to keep you safe."
Bato could tell the child was worried from his look. "We'll be ready to leave at a moment's notice here and we won't leave without you," he reassured, "I'll have someone trail you. He'll get you out if something goes wrong."
Sokka sloshed the idea around in his mouth. Finally, he made his decision: he'll do it.
Turning back to the soldier, "alright, I will see Governor Ukano."
After leaving with the man, Bato wore a prideful grin. He left to make arrangements for the young prince.
The gang were moving about the local town. Some buildings were new and pristine, befitting the history of the area as a nobleman's getaway. Others had signs of damage. Abandoned buildings were scattered about. Their frames were dented with cuts and impacts one would expect from waterbending strikes.
Aang and Azula were quiet. Azula was stone faced. Anyone who knew her less would assume she was simply bored. Zuko knew the girl her whole life. Aang was nervous, like a child with a secret. Zuko didn't need to know him at all to notice.
Zuko could feel a splash of anger. His features tightened. He tried to let it pass. After a few more steps, he couldn't anymore.
"Will you two just spit it out already?" Zuko fired out.
While Aang jumped, Azula kept her cool demeanor. Without responding, she turned to Aang. "Come on, airhead, I'm thinking of getting something for tonight."
Zuko growled, "Don't just run off."
While Aang tried to ask questions from Azula and justify things to Zuko in a frantic word-torrent, Azula just dragged him off into town. Zuko let out a growl of frustration before walking off.
"Was that okay?," Aang felt guilty.
"Zuzu can handle it," she grew a sinister grin, "though, he doesn't have mother to cry to right now. Might be a little tougher than usual."
Sensing Aang's apprehension, she continued, "it's a sibling thing, Aang. He's fine."
After a short while, the pair found themselves near the markets of the town. The place was lively. There seemed to be a decent number of people milling about. There was excitement in the air.
Azula set to work looking through the stalls. She ignored the shopkeeps trying to get her attention. Her eyes never met theirs. She refused to respond to their greetings. She never broke her stoney face as she went from stall to stall.
Aang tried to keep up with her. He decided to stay quiet at first and figure out what she was thinking. A fruit stand? A clothing stall? A jewelry vendor? It didn't take too long for the monk to figure things out.
Aang decided to just go out and say it, "Do you know what she likes?"
Azula didn't move as she acknowledged Aang. She was on the hunt. She was only to give him the bare minimum of attention. "This is important. Ty Lee is a simple girl. She may like flowers. However, that is a tad cliche. Improving my attire will do little. It's the mid-spring. My beauty comes in the excess of clothes, not the absence."
"What do you remember about her from when you were kids?," Aang stopped her, "I don't really know a lot about these things, but the last time you met you were kids."
Azula closed her eyes. Her mind drifted to a long time ago.
Her uncle, Iroh, had invited his brother's family to come with him to the annual Alliance meeting. They were to be guests of the Governor of Ryujin, their family's then-current hosts. Her father, Ozai, was looking forward to the meeting. He had fire in his eyes. Azula felt Ursa was cold as always. She was futzing with Zuko's appearance. She talked about how much Lu Ten had grown.
"She only spoke to me to scold me."
When they arrived at the Boiling Rock, she remembered Zuko being amazed at the airbenders flying about. Admiral Zhao's father was still in command at the time. The royal family were shuffled onto one of the beasts to cross the boiling lake.
"Apparently, The waters are the perfect defense against the water confederation. Any attempt to water bend them would turn to steam and be useless. Wooden boats can't make it across because they would catch on fire. Besides, it would be impossible to get boats to the top of the peak regardless. Without the airbenders on their side, the Water Confederation could never reach the compound at the center of Boiling Rock."
Azula met Ty Lee when she shuffled off of the skybison.
Azula was annoyed at the beast of burden. It's hair had gotten all over her during the trip. As she struggled off of the beast, she made sure it knew her discomfort. "Dumb beast," she muttered under her breathe, "cover someone else in your fur." She made sure to kick the bison slightly as she got off. The bison, in turn, bucked her. While the adults and Zuko were secure, Azula was knocked forward onto the stone.
Ursa rushed to her aid, "Are you okay, Azula?"
Azula pushed the woman's hand aside. "I can get up on my own, mother!," she barked. Ursa ignored it and continued checking the young Azula for injuries.
Uncle Iroh laughed at the young girl's words. "A feisty one, she is," he elbowed his younger brother.
Ozai had a proud yet chilling look. "Yes, Azula is a strong one," Ozai bragged as he told an oft repeated joke of his, "She was born lucky and I was lucky she was born."
"I don't think anyone born into our family can rightfully call themselves lucky these days," Iroh mused, a hint of humour under a layer of heavy observation.
"Only a matter of perspective and time, brother." Ozai oozed back.
Azula was embarrassed. "Mom! Dad and uncle are talking about me! It's because you keep treating me like a kid!"
"You are a kid, Azuzu," Ursa stood up, satisfied Azula was unhurt.
Azula humphed, "Stop calling me that."
That's when she noticed the laughter. It wasn't her Uncle this time. The voice was too high pitched and youthful.
Azula turned to see a group of seven identical girls. All of them were laughing, but one in pink was coming forward. As she came, she jumped into the air and rolled forward. Like a spring, she unloaded herself in a triumphant flair.
Azula stared back unamused. Of course, Zuko had to mention how cool he thought the maneuver was.
The adults had turned back to their business. Discussing with the airbending guide their living arrangement. They left the children to play for now.
"I'm Ty Lee," the girl exclaimed out of nowhere, "and these are my sisters, Ty Lin, Ty Lat, Ty Lao, Ty Liu, Ty Lum, and Ty Woo."
"I'm Zuko," the amused boy started, "and this is my younger sister, Azula."
"Nice to meet you both," Ty Lee winked. Turning to Azula, she said "so, how about you?"
Azula was confused at the question. "What?"
"Well, I saw you do that awesome move so I thought I'd show you what I had been practicing with my sisters," Ty Lee spoke with childlike pride, "I'm going to be an acrobat when I grow up."
"Wonderful, a circus freak, high admirations," Azula joked. Zuko was quick to scold her for her comment, earning himself a dirty look.
"I know, right?" Ty Lee seemed a little oblivious to Azula's comment, "My sisters think its dumb, but it's nice that they're helping me out with it."
"That's just because you stole the idea from me!," one of the sisters yelled back.
"After you stole it from me!," another screamed back.
Ty Lee was slumped forward in frustration at the display. Losing focus on her new friends.
"Zuko, aren't you glad you only have one, perfect little sister and not that," Azula gestured to the rancorous family.
"Perfect is a strong word," Zuko pouted.
Azula chuckled. "Well, Ty Lee, it seems you have your hands quite full today. I think Zuko and I will go meet our parents."
Ty Lee's demeanor turned on a dime. She waved goodbye to her new friends. Then, like a drop of a hat, she turned back to set the record straight on how acrobatics was her idea first.
"Aang, that's it," Azula snapped back to the moment.
"What is?" Aang was a bit confused.
Azula grabbed Aang's hand again and dragged off the bewildered airbender.
Sokka was led off of his ship. Rounding the docks, he saw a figure standing to greet him. She was a girl of about Sokka's age. She had porcelain skin, likely due to living underground. What really caught the prince's eye was the strange contrast between her elaborate pigtails and her soldier's outfit.
Even more perplexing was the outfit itself. He recognized most of the design from war meetings on the Dai Li. However, the girl wore a mantle of a fire islander noble on top of it.
"Are you the prince?," an annoyed voice welcomed Sokka.
"The name's Sokka, Prince Sokka," Sokka's voice was dripping with status, a cover for his fear, "And who might you be?"
The girl went "ugh" at his flirtatious speech. "Just follow me."
Sokka followed the girl as she began her trip deeper into Ishigaki. To calm his nerves, he looked around. The area was definitely a military institution. There were civilians, but they all seemed to be families of soldiers. No stands or stalls were present. There were no markets or commerce. Ishigaki must pool their resources, Sokka thought to himself as he traveled.
"Have you been a member of the Dai Li long?"
The girl groaned, "I'm not a member of the Dai Li." Her voice was flat and unemotive.
"Then what about your uniform?" Sokka gestured.
"Everyone in Ishigaki has to show their commitment to the Earth Kingdom," her tone mocked the very notion.
"The Southern Earth Kingdom?" Sokka asked for clarification.
"There is only one Earth Kingdom," she replied, "One Kingdom, One People, One Voice."
"But isn't this the fire islands?," Sokka gestured to their surroundings, "I know the warlo-governor gave the Sout-Earth Kingdom rights to the land, but I didn't hear about this place seceding to the South-Earth Kingdom."
The girl stopped and turned to Sokka. She looked around her and leaned in. "Shut up," she whispered, "Long Feng has ears everywhere."
She turned back and acted as if nothing happened.
Enduring silence for the rest of the trip, Sokka was brought to a great hall. The stone structure appeared to be built out of the mountain wall itself.
"Come on, my father is waiting for you," she gestured inside.
As they reached the door, Sokka could overhear an argument.
"The new curriculum is outrageous," an older gentlemen started, "it completely erases any studies of Fire Nation history."
A stone voice replied, "King Kuei has fashioned this curriculum himself to ensure prosperity between our people."
"Prosperity?," the older man replied, "this is just another attempt to erase our history! Our identities! Our way of-"
"The King has made arrangements for you at Omashu," the stone voice interjected.
There was a pause in the argument. The older voice began again. It was devoid of emotion, cold and robotic. "Yes, we can make concessions."
Sokka wasn't sure what he just overheard, but something about it seemed off. It left a pit in his stomach.
The girl was unphased. She knocked on the door. The older voice spoke up again, "Who is it? I'm in a meeting."
"It's me, dad," the girl started, "You asked me to get the prince for you."
"Mai, yes, please bring him in," Sokka could hear the older man getting up from his chair.
When Sokka entered the room, there was only one man. Whoever the other voice belonged to had vanished. Sokka took a moment to soak up the room.
One would mistake it for the office of a mid-level Earth Kingdom bureaucrat. There were various Earth Kingdom flourishes. A portrait of King Kuei held high behind Ukano's seat. The flag of the shobo-shi hung lower than the Southern Earth Kingdom's banner. Even Governor Ukano was wearing a Dai Li outfit.
Sokka realized Bato was wrong. Ishigaki wasn't some loose alliance doomed to fail. Not two nations trying to own a single island. This was something else. Something sinister. Something Sokka had never seen before.
"Prince Sokka, welcome to Ishigaki," the man started, "You're the first in the Water Confederation to do so."
"I am the trailblazer," Sokka reverted to his prideful persona, "it's the job of a royal: make new bonds."
"Indeed," the governor started, "We're quite impressed how you helped out Roku's Village. Umbie is a strong symbol for our people. Shobo-shi is lucky to have it in our waters." Ukano sighed, "the resting place of the last Avatar."
"You don't believe he reincarnated?," Sokka questioned.
"With everything that has passed? Yes. It's hard to imagine the Avatar would let things go as they are without intervening."
Ukano took a moment before continuing, "Enough of that talk." He moved around and took a seat at his desk, "we are grateful for the new recruits you have brought us. Umbie was always too far off to properly train."
"You mean the refugees? They're civilians, not soldiers." Sokka was confused.
"Everyone's a soldier in Ishigaki," Mai flat tone hid her sarcastic intentions.
"Indeed," Ukano mused, "they'll be sorted. Those who can fight will be trained for the Dai Li. Those who can't, will supply us with materials for the war."
"You can't just make people soldiers," Sokka protested.
"You'll be surprised what we can do here," Ukano had a sinister tone.
The two locked eyes, but the moment faded.
"Onto the matter for which I called you here," Ukano acted like nothing had happened, "the royal family was on Umbie. We were holding them in honor after the Akatatsu had thrown them out."
Sokka was surprised. He didn't notice anyone who looked regal on the island. There were many defined elders, but they all seemed to have lived a common life. The closest was the family of the girl who burnt his underwear. But no princess could be so mean.
"Only one of them was reported among the recruits," Ukano grew stern, "what have you done with the rest?"
"I didn't even know they were on the island," Sokka pleaded.
Ukano paused. He moved his head back to the wall. He waited a moment then leaned back forward. "You're lying. I'll ask again: where is the royal family?"
"I don't know what you're talking about," Sokka fought, "I brought all the refugees as I promised."
Ukano gave a look to Mai. In an instance, Mai had Sokka by the neck, a dagger to his throat.
"Last chance, Prince."
"Bato!," the boy screamed, "Whoever you sent! Please! Now! Sneak attack!"
Nothing happened.
Governor Ukano moved his head back until it touched the wall. Waited. Then moved forward. "You're looking for your friend."
A section of the wall slid open. Behind the new opening, a Dai Li agent held the unconscious body of one of Sokka's men. They were beaten, but alive.
"The Dai Li caught him sneaking about earlier," Ukano was cold, "Now that we understand each other: where is the royal family?"
"I really don't know! I promise!" Sokka was on the verge of tears.
Ukano looked at the Dai Li. "Mai, let him go." Without a sound, the knife was removed from Sokka's neck.
"Thank you," Sokka caught his breath, "I'm glad you could see reason."
In a flurry, two stone hands shot forward and bound Sokka's hands and feet. Sokka fell forward. Ukano stared at the collapsed teen.
"We will just have to substitute one hostage for another," Ukano spoke grimly, "The prince of the Water Confederation is more useful anyway."
Night had come slowly. The days were getting longer as summer approaches. The beach had become a hive of activity. A big top tent was surrounded by stalls and stands. People from across the village came to be in attendance.
The gang had left Appa in the pasture with food for the night. They were looking forward to some spectacle after their daring escape the prior day. Azula in particular seemed rather eager to see the show.
Zuko wasn't oblivious. While they were getting ready, Zuko took the chance to take Aang aside. "Do you know what's been going on with my sister?," Zuko whispered, "She seems so happy. Earlier today, she was acting like everything was falling apart."
"I-I probably shouldn't say," Aang stuttered back.
"Aang, she's my sister. Let me know if something's wrong."
"This is something she should tell you," Aang tried to leave. Zuko stepped in front of him.
"I'm serious." Aang could tell Zuko's passion was coming from a place of love, but he was smart enough to know how bad it would be to say something.
Luckily, Aang was an airbender. He moved into Zuko and slipped right behind him, running off afterwards to meet-up with Azula. Zuko growled when he realized he'd been outsmarted, but let it go to enjoy the show.
The show itself went off without a hitch. There were liontiger tamers, dancing platypus bears, clowns: the entire circus experience. The highlight was Ty Lee's performance. Her feats got a rise out of Azula. Zuk was shocked when Azula actually clapped at the performance. After the performance of the komodorhino riders, the ringleader brought the show to a close.
With the performance over, people began to head back to their homes. Their night of thrills over.
Aang turned to see a nervous Azula. Zuko was the first to say something. "So, uh, do you want to go see Ty Lee? Or maybe talk about what's been worrying you?"
"Yes, let's go see Ty Lee." Azula got up. Zuko sighed. Aang just readied himself.
Ty Lee was resting in her tent after the performance. There were flowers and little trinkets from her co-workers. Gifts they gave her after she announced she'd be spending the off-season with the Avatar and her old friends. Normally, there would be some minor meetups to hone their skills and audition new acts, but Ty Lee had already requested an absence from them.
Ty Lee herself was pretty exhausted. The summer was creeping in. The big top tent was already becoming a bit of an oven. Ty Lee was sweating even before the firebenders did their dance. Or the magician used his firebending to "summon a dragon." Good performances, of course, but expecting people and animals to stomach that heat was a lot. Especially when your act relies on physical coordination.
When she heard a rap at her tent, she took a quick opportunity to clean herself off with her towel. "Come in," she said.
As the gang entered, Ty Lee perked up. "Hey guys, I thought I'd see you in the morning."
"Yes, well, I thought I'd come and speak with you a bit before we began," Azula started. Zuko looked a little nervous. He wasn't sure what to expect, but he had a feeling it wasn't good.
"I was thinking back about our first meeting," Azula started.
"When the skybison threw you off for kicking it?" Ty Lee was a bit confused.
"That bison had it coming! And where did it get off attacking a princess?" Azula shot out before recomposing herself, "Yes, that."
"I remembered your family tried to take credit for getting you into acrobatics. You weren't a fan. Seemed you had issues standing out from them." Azula moved to her hair and began to undo it. "I thought long and hard on what I was going to say to you. Strategized on it with the Avatar himself."
"She mostly just stood around and thought, but I guess I helped."
Azula took off her crown. "I read once that Fire Lord Sozin gave his crown to Avatar Roku as a gift. As the child of both Sozin and Roku, I give you mine."
Zuko leaned his head in confusion. "Isn't this a little much? She's just an old friend." Azula subtly jabbed Zuko in the side, causing the boy to hunch over.
Ty Lee seemed even more confused as she took the crown. "Thanks," Ty Lee wasn't sure what to make of the gift.
Azula seemed proud of herself. "With that crown, you'll always out shine your sisters."
"I'm not sure how to wear it with my hair, though."
Azula laughed, "don't be naive. Did you think I wouldn't plan for this? I spent the last three hours devising a perfect way of merging the crown with your hairstyle." Azula moved around and guided Ty Lee's hands. She showed her how to place the crown in front of the ponytail and how to lock it in place.
"Now then, you are officially part of our group. I'm sure you're jubilant. We expect to see you at dawn tomorrow. Don't be late." Azula gave a flirtatious smile. Ty Lee continued her wide-eyed stare.
Without another word, Azula turned and left the confused onlookers.
Zuko waited a moment. "So, now are you going to tell me what's wrong with my sister?," Zuko was pleading more than demanding. Even Ty Lee leaned in with interest to Aang's potential explanation. The airbender just waved them off with a nervous smile and uncomfortable laugh.
The Dai Li had long since taken Sokka out of Ukano's office, leaving the father and daughter to decompress. Ukano, despite his previous bluster, was hyperventilating.
"I hate when the Dai Li makes me do that," he let out, "It's horrifying."
Mai said nothing.
"I know they need me to put on a strong face, but it is all a bit much sometimes." Ukano leaned back in the chair.
"Are you sure it was the interrogation?," Mai's voice was dead.
"What else could it be?" Ukano exhaled. "Though, I have been tired lately. Memory has been getting a little hazy. I might be getting sick. Could be lack of Sleep. King Kuei has been pushing in a lot of strange reform recently. They've been touching more and more things. Sometimes, it feels like the only thing they haven't touched is our military's uniforms."
Mai closed her eyes. "It didn't sound like you liked his reforms earlier."
"The new curriculum?" Ukano asked, "You must have overheard. I had my issues with it, but the King has his reasons." Ukano seemed oddly proud. "The King's advisor said Ishigaki is the model of the future. We're the test of how King Kuei will bring order to the rest of the Earth Kingdom. Long Feng doesn't say words like that lightly."
Mai didn't look at her father.
"Not that we're part of the Earth Kingdom," Ukano seemed to remember himself, "But as long as we have their support, we are the strongest force in the Fire Alliance. Long Feng once told me he hoped that Shobo-shi would reunite the Fire Islands under proper leadership. We're lucky Long Feng could see I was better suited to lead Shobo-shi than my predecessor."
Mai sighed.
Ukano misread the gesture for a call for attention. "Good work bringing him earlier. The Dai Li said you managed to keep his eyes off anything sensitive," Ukano got up, "the Dai Li said it'd be best if you got him. I remember having issues with that plan." Ukano seemed lost in thought. "No, wait, I didn't. Did I?"
Mai furrowed her brow.
"I think I'll head in for the night." Ukano headed for the door, "Your mother is waiting for us."
Mai looked at the wall for a few moments. She followed her father home.
On the other side of the wall, Sokka struggled against his captors. The stones kept his hand and feet bound. Try as he might, he couldn't break himself free. His captors dragged him like a captured hen.
"I'm going to get out of here," Sokka threatened, "You're going to regret it when my friends arrive."
The Dai Li agent stopped and paused.
"Your ship left a long time ago." The man let the words sit in the air.
Sokka was stunned. Did Bato really leave without him? Or was Dai Li just trying to get to him? Feeling betrayed, Sokka could feel himself deflating. Without a word, he let the Dai Li continue to drag him along the rocky floor.
