I got my first bad review (blows horn, throws streamers and confetti) Thanks to Terra you made my day by calling my fiction the worse ever!(Squeals and jumps up and down.) I am officially an artist. Thanks for validating me.

Also I'm very happy to announce I have twenty reviews thanks to SerenaPotterSailorMoon.

I love reviews good, bad or indifferent so keep them coming!

With that out of the way the story continues.

I do not own ATLA but I do own my vivid dreams and OCs.

Book 4: Air: Exodus

Chapter 4

Azula awoke up amongst unfamiliar surroundings. The nightstand was oak with green inlays. A bamboo carpet was under the bed. The scent of orchids and earth caressed her nose. She arose feeling groggy and disconnected. She hadn't rested well since being in that mental facility. She was haunted by the fact that she couldn't remember an entire year of her life. She got up from her bed almost stumbling. She saw the vanity mirror and beheld a thin, pallid, boyish waif. Azula walked closer and touched the image and shrank back. Bags had taken over her amber eyes. Her hair was brittle and breaking. Was this how she truly looked? This image was unacceptable to Azula. Any resemblance of the intimidating former princess was replaced by a person, who looked of petrified charred wood. If she was ever to firebend or defend herself, she needed to get healthy immediately.

Azula's bathed herself and brushed her short locks. Reluctantly she got dressed in the unsightly green robes. It seemed ironic that they were similar to the Kyoshi warrior uniform. She instantly thought of three years ago conquering Ba Sing Se as the pride of her nation. She was a young woman with endless means and now who was she? Azula was now Rae Ng, daughter to two unimportant people, who's deaths she had to care about. This was only temporary she told herself as she glanced at the mirror posing in peasant clothes.

The inviting scent of cooked fish with soy sauce and jasmine rice carried her to the kitchen. Warm white tea steamed inside the kettle greeting her pallet. For a moment she pondered, where was Aura? At this point it didn't matter Aura couldn't have gone far. Unexpectedly, she heard an explosive sound that shook the ground. She smelled that familiar scent of flames. She walked to the front of the house and saw Judel and Aura sparring each other. They tossed fire balls at the other impeding would be strikes.

Aura tied her hair up with one hand as her flames circled around her in an elegant formation. She punched each flame ball at Judel, never hesitating. Azula hadn't seen a hint of weakness. Aura was certainly proficient.

Judel on the other hand was a bit timid. He could fight if he wanted to, but he was not fighting to his full potential. He bent the fire around him into a smooth stream like a waterbender. The flames surrounded his body creating a barrier; this was most certainly an impressive defensive maneuver: he was focused. Aura must have been the one training him in native techniques that he was greatly deficient in. Judel took a look and noticed Azula on the porch. Little did he know that this gave Aura enough time: Azula knew those set of steps like the back of her hand. She smiled at Judel, who only grinned back in response. This young man hadn't any idea what he was in for.

Judel turned around just in time to notice the streak of lightning coming his way. He pointed his fingers out; the lightning went into his body, traveled to his stomach and out of the other hand. The same technique she only knew her Uncle to perform. Perhaps there was more to this young man. "ARE YOU CRAZY?" Judel shouted.

"You're not dead and besides your holding back and its pissing me off!"

Judel stood straight up and took in a deep breath of air. He moved his feet forward pacing them quickly toward Aura, who gave him a 'now that's more like it' look. Aura launched herself forward and attempted to deliver a fireball kick, but he deflected it with his fist. He did a split and pushed himself up with his arms. He began a flare motion with his legs creating a relentless assault of fireballs.

Judel stopped his flares and stood up. "I'm just getting warmed up." Judel ran toward Aura ,who dodged as if predicting his move and used fire to boost her jumps. She did a somersault and kicked fire his way. Judel in one quick burst surrounded himself with fire and blew emerald flames from his mouth that counteracted with Aura's red flames turning to smoke. The tired parties looked at the other, their breathing labored as the smoke dissipated. Ping ran between the two of them. "That's enough!"

Aura placed a comforting hand on Ping's shoulder and kissed his cheek. "Would you relax we're not going to kill each other: it was just practice."

"Please no more my love."

Aura kissed Ping more passionately and he carried her to the house. Judel shook his head at his comrades. Azula walked straight up to Judel, invading all personal space. "How is that you wield green flames?" she demanded.

"Good morning to you as well royalty."

"Don't you dare mock me: answer my question?"

"I thought you didn't want me to talk anymore seeing as how I am a lowly half-breed."

He had a point; nonetheless, if he could offer something of value to her getting back her firebending, she would manipulate the answer out of this man. She wasn't going to dare humble herself, but she would at least put on the best performance of her life. "Your right I…I'm sorry. I want to know how you wield green flames."

Judel's mocking features melted away and his blue eyes softened. Judel smiled at Azula sweetly. "I'll tell you over breakfast. I worked up an appetite."

Aura and Ping sat at the table feeding the other giggling. Azula sat at the table as she took a bite of the soft and flaky fish. It had the slight taste of seaweed and sesame oil. Azula had to pace herself, though part of her wanted to grab each morsel and shove it down her throat. The meals at the asylum were meager at best, this certainly was a treat. Judel took a bite of the fish dipping it into the broth and grinned at Azula. He slowly sipped white tea. Judel turned to her with and created a red flame in his palm. "When I was a boy I lived with my adoptive water tribe parents. The Fire Nation began to build factories that were oozing slime and waste into our local rivers. We were starving and hungry with no fish to eat or water to drink."

"I ventured out on my own and found a small reservoir. It seemed untouched but in the end I was poisoned and bedridden for weeks. They expelled all of the poison in my system, but it had seemed there was damage done to my lungs." He breathed deeply creating a green flame onto a lone candle. "The water I drank was copper base so whenever I use my breath of fire or dragon rage attacks it turns green."

Azula's shoulders sank; well that was disappointing, but she would keep this information for later. She did wonder though. "How did you learn to redirect lightning?"

"My adoptive father who's a waterbender taught me everything I know."

"Impossible! What does a waterbender know of fire?"

Judel shrugged. "My father was a scholar he studied all types of bending."

"You're desecrating the firebending art!" Azula got up and walked away.

This man was too much to bear. He was presenting so many challenges. She had a set of beliefs that water and fire could never get along: he was proof. There is nothing to glean from other nations: he mixed bending styles. You should never be attracted to a man of another ethnicity and especially one that was mixed: she was attracted so desperately. She just met this man not one day ago and already her feelings surged through her body. She was drawn to his intrigue and power. No, she would not go down this path. Foolish hormones, why must they vex the mind with such torture?

Aura walked up to Azula. "Are you OK?"

She honestly wished people would stop being concerned about her. "Yes"

"We're going to the market to pick up some supplies. Some fresh air will do you good."

This was so overwhelming; no, worse than overwhelming; it was downright frightening. She wanted to stay inside not venture outside where people can see her. "Listen; don't worry about anyone recognizing you, unless that person worked closely with you. Binjwen is a neutral zone. No one can touch it."

Well that didn't make her feel better, but she didn't feel worse. Azula had to relax. She found her strength, took a deep breath and went outside where both men were waiting. Aura tugged at Azula's arm. "You may want to work on your earth kingdom accent for when foreigners visit."

She ignored that last comment and walked off.

They went from merchant to merchant collecting produce. Aura particularly gravitated toward the fabric. Azula walked a safe distance away lest she be followed. She was interested in the books and maps. She hoped at least should could glean something useful. She had to entertain herself somehow if this was going to be her life. She checked her side pouched realizing she hadn't enough. How embarrassing. "A beautiful girl like you doesn't need books," said a young man.

He was a tall fellow wearing Fire Nation vest and pants. His skin was a bit tan from spending time outside. In a display of self-absorption, he flexed his muscles. "Excuse me?" she managed to say in a low voice.

"My father is an important Admiral, how about I show you around."

"No thanks"

The young man stepped closer to her and looked her in the eyes. He was too close for comfort. She knew this arrogant idiot anywhere. Her first kiss and boyfriend for 30 seconds Chan. That means, oh no please not now. "You look familiar."

"No, I'm from this village," she said in trying to emulate the best earth kingdom accent.

"I never forget a pretty face. Maybe you crashed one of my parties."

Azula did her best to hide her face. The more she hid herself, the more curious he became. "Hey wait a minute your ─"

"Darling!" called out a voice.

Judel rushed to her side and held her hand. "Sweetheart you ran off again. Poor dear she lost her memory in a bad accident."

"And you are?" questioned Chan.

"I'm Judel and this is my wife Rae Ng," oh no he didn't, "You're not ready to read books yet dearest, remember what the doctor said about your eyes, it's simply too soon.

If looks could kill Judel would be dead 100 times over. She found it best to play along; the dimwit Chan would believe anything. "Can't I just have a few books until I get better," she was a good liar; might as well sweeten the pot. Judel patted her hand and took out his money pouch giving the vendor the amount of coins for the books.

"That's enough excitement for one day come on my love." He held his arm and Azula laced her hand in Judel's. Chan stared at the couple in confusion and walked away. They kept up the charade for a few more feet until they were sure that he was gone. They released each others arms as if it was a disease. Aura and Ping couldn't resist but to lose themselves in a snickering fit. "They make a cute couple Ping, don't you think?"

"With him (her)!" they shouted pointing at the other.

If Azula and Judel agreed on one thing it was for sure that they didn't like the other. "I don't want anything to do with this amalgamated pretense of a firebender!"

"I saved your life and you still use racial slurs."

It became a shouting match, which was making Aura and Ping nervous that they would reveal their identities. Aura eventually broke up the couple. "Okay you two, neutral corners."

This was going to be "fun" being around these people, but she had no other choices. Aura at that point made the decision to go back to the house. This moment couldn't come soon enough for Azula. This day was overwhelming and eventful. She needed a break.

Azula immediately went to bed without saying a word. She relaxed under the sheets closing her eyes tight. She wanted to so badly forget about the whole day.

The next couple of weeks went by and fortunately for Azula she wouldn't have to see Judel; he went away for a few weeks, to where, Azula didn't care as long as he was gone.

The day began peaceful as any other. Azula took a warm bath. She sat down for breakfast which was boiled dumplings in a vegetable broth. Azula was impressed by how this young woman could cook a meal that would arouse the senses. Aura laid out the chopsticks. "Eat; you will need your strength. It will be a busy day."

Azula wasn't even going to begin to ask what this busy day entailed. Her mind was so preoccupied by her brother and why he wanted to set her free in this village. She thought at this very moment that she would be setting her father free and they would make a plan. Those words lingered in her mind what Zuko said, "I've fought many people to give you this opportunity" Who did he fight? It was obvious the council members and fire sages would have been adamant. Yet, he looked personally affected as if he fought with his new wife, her former friend, Mai. Quarreling on his honeymoon would have caused a rift. He didn't even mention Uncle fighting for her, meaning he made this choice on his own. Why would he risk every relationship just to set her free? He couldn't possibly care about her welfare. Aura looked at Azula's worried face. "You can eat it's not poisoned."

Azula sneered at Aura showing her disgust for the statement. Aura slapped her forehead. "That was an incredibly poor choice of words: I'm so sorry"

Azula went to speak and make some smart remark about how she spent too much time around the disadvantage, but she couldn't bring herself to say it. Her mind was too preoccupied by questions. She slowly ate her meal in silence, lest Aura worry or make stupid statements. When she was finished she pushed away her plate and placed her chopsticks on the table. As Azula got up Aura grabbed her arm. "Where are you going?"

"My meal is complete: I am to obtain fresh air"

"Not without washing your dish."

"Pardon"

"Wash-your-dish," she said to Azula like she was speaking to a child.

"Wash─ are you insane I don't do that!"

"Well then I guess you will have to find another place to live, cook your own meals, survive out in the wilderness without allies or immunity. I'm sure you will find another village to live in─"

Aura's words were interrupted by Azula stomping off and carrying the dishes. She muttered to herself. Azula was not happy about lowering herself to the menial task. Azula walked outside and realized she didn't know how to use any of the equipment before her. Far too prideful to ask, she tried to figure it out. There was a bucket of water and an odd shape piece of wood with metal. A rag hung on the side. Azula touched the dish with disgust. She looked away while placing the dish in the buckets. She nearly gagged as the film touched her hands. She scrubbed the dish; the grime would not come off. She dipped the dishes in the water multiple times. Then Azula heard a crack. She pulled out the giant shards of what would have been a plate, "I will not be defeated by a piece of porcelain I will cleanse you!"

Aura from a safe distance giggled and decided to let Azula out of her misery. "Let me help you." Aura took a dish and the rag rubbing it in a circular motion. "See it's like the wrist action in the dragon maneuver, up and around."

Now Azula felt completely insulted she would not let anyone treat her like this. "Don't you dare dictate firbending to me I've mastered the element to lightning level. I'll conquer your 'dish washing!'"

Aura shrugged it off and stood off to the side. Azula felt her fingertips become wrinkled and saturated. She looked at her reflection in the water and pounded at the image as it rippled. This had to be a dream and soon she was going to wake up and be right back in the palace. None of this was true. She couldn't help but realize who she was died two years ago and left this new weak form. Azula couldn't fathom that this was happening to her. Azula for the first time in her life had to become self-sufficient and back talking the person she was living with certainly wasn't going to help.

Azula wasn't one to apologize, instead she finished the dishes as efficiently as possible and dried herself off and got dressed in her earth kingdom robes. Aura was standing in the front yard and handed her a basket. "We're going to be visiting some of the people whom I help fund. Be on your best behavior no remarks or retorts go it!"

"I won't speak will that suffice?" Azula said coldly.

"Oh no talking even better" said Aura sarcastically clasped her hands.

Azula completely ignored the comeback and followed Aura down a lone dirt path.

The first person Aura and Azula visited was an old man who often liked to flirt shamelessly with Aura. However, catching sight of Azula he forgot all about Aura. "Good morning Mister Chang we have baked fruit for you today."

"Oh," he said squinting, his rosy cheeks blushed, "Who is your beautiful and ravishing friend?"

"Her name is Rae Mr. Chang."

"Rae, like sunshine would you like to be my wife?"

"I don't do wrinkles!"

Aura shot a quick look to Azula, who was unfazed by the action. "She's got sass I like it!"

Afraid of what Azula might say Aura chimed in, "Aww you're making me jealous."

The elderly man leaned in close to Aura smiling brightly. "No one can replace you. You're my first."

This was completely beneath Azula she was a princess having everyone cater to her every whim. Now here she was catering to a smelly old pervert. Azula couldn't take this anymore. "Don't we have other peasants to serve?"

Aura laughed off Azula's comment knowing it wasn't a joke. She patted Mr. Chang on the back as he gave her gold coins as a tip, which Aura refused. She just gave him a sweet smile waving as she went out the door. Aura turned her attention to Azula, who at this point was being rude and pompous. "I know this isn't your favorite thing to do, but could you at least try to be nice."

"Pleasantries are for the lower creatures."

Aura suddenly found herself nursing a headache. "Look I'm not asking you to be fake it's just that the people we visit have been through enough. They don't need your negative energy. I'll make a deal with you; if you carry the supplies, you can stay outside."

"A fair wager," said Azula snatching the baskets from Aura.

She walked a few paces and breathed a sigh of relief. Visiting these people deep down reminded her of the situation she was in. She didn't want to know how dire her straits were. She never wanted life like this.

With each door visited Azula stood outside try as she may to firebend but became aggravated. Instead, Azula drew circles and without knowing she made the Fire Nation emblem. She quickly erased the image. Ugh why couldn't she get her mind off of the place that brought her so much pain? What was Azula thinking leaving the mental facility? Maybe it was too soon to tackle on this responsibility and the mental games her mind played on her. She shook her head. her self-respect wouldn't leave room for shame; the strength of her ancestors' course through her veins. She could overcome this by relying on her martial arts skills, just not firebending. She knew for sure that she wouldn't go down without a fight. Aura approached her immediately snapping Azula out of her trance. "One last house and we are done for the day."

"Took you long enough," snorted Azula.

Aura rolled her eyes. They went down a short stretch of the road. Aura walked inside a small cottage. Azula stood outside arms crossed and indignant. She smelled the scent of cherry blossoms and fresh ginger. It was familiar a scent from childhood. She walked a short opposing distance, sitting on the ground, beginning to meditate. Azula heard the obnoxious whistling of a young boy. Azula opened her eyes to see the young man standing over her with fishing net. His innocent eyes stared at her. He gave her a curious look. Azula returned with a sneer. "Are you Fire Nation?" asked the boy.

She stood up towering over the boy. He had a milky complexion and jet black hair with sparkling gold eyes. He almost reminded her of─ no the likelihood is impossible.

"Can you firebend? Are with Aura? She can make neat circles when she firebends. I hope one day she teaches me. Hey, are you my teacher? She promised me I was going to get a teacher."

"Do you always overwhelm your guest with endless questions?"

"You're cranky!"

"You're young for age!"

"Wow, you sound like my mom!"

"If I were your mother, I would invest in a muzzle to silence all of your speech."

An older woman walked outside. "Han-Lien leave the young lady be. Bring the fish inside and wash up."

"Yes mother," said the boy exasperated.

Her ears immediately perked up. That voice of the woman. Azula froze in her place. The woman's footsteps got closer.

"I'm sorry but my son is very curious"

Azula shook her head in disbelief as a lump found itself lodged in Azula's throat. Azula turned around slowly. She hoped and prayed it was a hallucination. The woman gasped holding her hand over her mouth. "M…M…Mother?"