Katara awoke to turbulence and tried not to scream with surprise. How far had they gone? Were they close? How long had she been sleeping? She could tell through the cloth that it was daylight and probably afternoon. Hunger clawed at Katara's stomach and her throat cried for water. Katara told herself to calm. She did. Her element being so close to her made her comfortable and security took her as she again drifted off to sleep. By the time she woke up, it was getting dark. She stayed still, but cramps were building in her legs. Not to mention she had been in that canoe all day, she needed to take care of business. She really had to go. An hour or so past and she couldn't hold it any longer. She lifted the blanket to see her dad in the light of the moon. What would she say? Whatever she had to say, she would have to say it soon. They were canoeing past an island and she thought this the best opportunity.

"Papa?"

Hakoda turned around fast and looked with horror at Katara.

"Katara!!!"

"Dad, I have to go!"

With that Katara jumped into the freezing water and swam to the island. Hakoda paddled to the island. When Katara was done, she approached her father, her eyes downcast.

"Katara, what were you thinking! This changes everything! You can't come! Do you know how dangerous this trip is going to be?!"

Katara was dumbfounded. Her father was angry, really angry. He pulled Katara into the canoe, putting a towel around her. He huffed. He could not turn around now. It was about a day's journey to his destination. Katara would have to come.

"I am sorry father, I was worried for you."

Hakoda grasped Katara's shoulders and brought her chin up so they were both at eye length.

"Katara, you don't understand. But I can't turn around, you are coming."

Joy bubbled into Katara's body but Hakoda continued.

"You don't understand how dangerous this is. You have to promise me that you will listen to me no matter what. Promise?"

Katara just nodded her head slowly. With that, Hakoda returned to paddling the canoe.

-----------------------------------------------

Sorry guys, the story is just getting started. But the Zutara will come! Plz review!