Hello fanfic readers! DID YOU MISS ME! *hears crickets

I know; I know; I have been absent for two years and I left you guys on a cliffhanger. So for those left following this story you will not be disappointed by the continuation. In this chapter someone will make the ultimate sacrifice and I will have a special announcement next chapter. Expect a grand finish!

How about those Surfbenders? So guess what? Three more chapters left and we are one step closer to knowing who is going to die and who is going to make the ultimate sacrifice; but first, responses to your reviews.

Alabaster86- I'm glad I entertained you!

WARLOCK2552- You didn't make a review for chapter 12 but hey you made one now and that's all that matters. Yes a high Azula is a campfire story for the ages. Hmm pyromania family bonding? Darn it now I have a plot bunny XD Yes entering the temple is only the first step and what sacrifices will be made? We'll see

Private Fire- EXCELLENT! (Air guitar), and two sets of twins is enough to make any mother crazy. I say Ozai's angels are progressing quite nicely. It's funny how Toph's parts give you more poetic license as a writer than the others. That firebending performance was so last minute originally it was going to be a separate exhibition but thought this family could use some bonding. Azula plus mushrooms equal comedy gold! Yes Mai's pregnancy is super accelerated and you have three more chapters to find out if it is a good or bad.

Now it's time to find out about Qigong

Previously on Avatar…Admiral Zhao returned to taunt our heroes as they began their journey to the ancient temple of Qigong the source of all bending. Meanwhile, the now water bending Zhao is forcing Azula to make a choice in who will live and who will die in order to restore the airbenders. Mai was chosen for life and she then came to be spontaneously pregnant which is accelerating the closer they get to the temple. Azula chose no one for death but Zhao tricked her saying, "Whoever you think of with great unforgivable detestation will be the one to die."

In a disturbing twist of events, Ty Lee is having a repeated vision of a faceless dead woman who she suspects is Mai. Judel, Azula's husband is finding himself in the minority as Sokka and Iroh have a personal vendetta against his wife. The rest of the Gaang can barely contain their excitement in traveling to the temple that will restore the airbenders.

I do not own ATLA but I do own my vivid dreams

Book 4: Air: Water and Fire is Air

Qigong

To anyone who had ever encountered an ancient structure, were often met with disappointment. It wasn't because you didn't enjoy the journey, it was the fact of the matter that often these places were dilapidated and vine ridden. The true pleasure of any explorer was to restore such places of rich history; but, very few were able to see the places they dreamt of in their original condition. Iroh hadn't received such privilege to see Qigong. By the time he had gotten to this temple, it was smoldering rubble. He was with his companions, saving the knowledge of two ancient living scrolls. Imagine his surprise when he entered the cavern, to see that this temple was not only intact, but, it was in fact, looking untouched. So where were they really? He hoped all of his answers would soon come to light.

Toph, who was walking next to Iroh, felt the beating of his heart and the uneasiness in his steps. The man had become more of a parent than her own flesh and blood. Iroh knew parts of her that if anyone ever found out, she would clobber them to death. Needless to say, when he was troubled, she didn't like it one bit. She grasped his shoulder, whispering in his ear, "You ok?"

Disrupted from his musings, he looked over to Toph, "I am just a very distracted old man."

Toph elbowed him, "You know better than that!"

He smiled lightly; she had caught him in a lie of course. There was no need to be on the defensive. The old Dragon knew with certainty that something wasn't right. The vision he saw when touching that scroll, was not something he wanted to dwell on. How could you even form those words; when everyone was so excited to be here?

Toph was now even more upset by Iroh. He hadn't spoken a word and for him that was a rarity. There were no words of wisdom or silly jokes. There was no time to worry about him; he would reveal things in his own time. Toph stopped mid step, "We're here."

"That was quick," said Sokka, glancing around. He felt around the walls of the cavern looking for an entrance, "Well, where is it?"

"I can see it just fine."

"I guess I'm just missing it where do you—Toph!"

"Why does Sokka always fall for that?" said Mai slightly amused

"Some people just don't have common sense," observed Zuko. "Come on we can find something if we work together."

While all of the Gaang of fire was searching, Aang's ears perked up. He heard a series of whispers. The voices echoed in his mind and meld it into one. Whatever was communicating with him was guiding him to a hidden entrance. Curious, Aang stepped forward and examined what looked like a large door before him. Something about its structure was familiar. Aang took a serious look and set fire to it, garnishing the attention of everyone. Sokka shook the Avatar by the shoulders, "Are you insane!"

"No, look, this door is petrified wood. I've seen this before. Do you guys remember the time I disappeared before Sozin's comet? Something was calling me and the next thing I know; I saw a giant lion-turtle. I think that's what it is."

"The door is a lion-turtle?" Sokka scratched his head puzzled.

"He's trying to say that we are on a lion-turtle idiot!" Toph smacked Sokka

"That would be correct!"

"AHH disembodied voice," Sokka screamed.

"Seriously, does he eat stupid for breakfast?" said Mai.

Before the group, a woman materialized standing in front of the door, wearing robes of gold. Her long brown hair was kissed with glittery light. She had a welcoming smile on her face with her hands adorned with the tattoos of all four nations. "Welcome to Qigong."

Aang found himself drawn to the woman. His feet walked toward the figure. Katara followed her husband and tugged at his arm. "What is it sweetie: what's wrong?"

"That face, I know his woman, she's…she's my mother."

"I am afraid that you are mistaken Avatar. I am the guardian of Qigong. I am merely the representation; I am the mother of all Avatars. Throughout the centuries all of these maternal individuals, made the ultimate sacrifice in order for their children to keep balance in the world."

Aang hung his head in disappointment and shame, Katara was readily by his side and embraced him. "It's ok Aang any one of us could have made that mistake."

"Within this temple is the origin of bending. Before you may enter, you must first be of pure intention. You must express any past regrets. Aang you may go first."

Aang kissed Katara on the lips and stood before the woman, "I have many regrets; but I wasn't aware of it until I saw you. I never really got to know my mother. I don't know her name or what she was like. I regret that I didn't honor her by running away from my responsibilities."

"You have been cleansed; you may enter. It is now your turn, Katara of the water tribe."

"I regret treating my brother like he didn't lose our mother. I've been carrying guilt all these years because she was covering for me I'm the reason why—"

Sokka jumped to his sisters side supportively hugging her, "Katara don't I don't blame you."

"I'm sorry I killed her."

"I sense much pain and honesty; you have been cleansed. Sokka step forward."

The Water tribesman rubbed the shoulder of his baby sister. With a sad nod she urged Sokka on. He glanced at his own foe, the Fire Nation princess; within his belly he felt a pang of guilt. He needed to let this go or otherwise he was no better than her. "I regret taking out my anger on Azula. Suki and I went through what every couple goes through. I'm still not a fan of hers; but, she has people who care about her and doesn't deserve to be executed by me."

At this Judel clenched his fist and glowered at his Water tribe ally, "You were going to find an excuse to kill my wife!"

Sokka could barely meet the man's gaze. He hated Azula, but this man was innocent, "I'm sorry," he offered, "this anger, it just isn't me and I don't know what to do…I—"

Judel grabbed Sokka by the scruff of his collar and pushed him back, "I looked up to you; thought you were beyond this and yet here you are, a vigilante. I ought to burn you to the ground and send the ashes to your wife!"

Iroh stepped in between the pair reprimanding Azula's husband, "Judel stop! You don't know all of the facts! The Azula you married is not the same Azula. You don't know her and her lies. She is of pure evil intent; eyes black like coal and murderous, a lust for power that could never be quenched. Her madness saved us all from certain doom."

The Jaw-Long member saw himself face to face with a wall of opposition. Aang and he were in the minority. He hadn't realized how much his wife had done and now understood clearly why she was terrified to go home. "So I suppose I'm the only one on her side then"

"I'm sorry Judel, but trust is earned," spoke Zuko plainly.

You wouldn't have known that Azula was the subject of scrutiny, her countenance remained placid. She gave him "that look"; the one that said to, rise above others opinion, "Husband, you are next."

He squeezed her hand and stepped forward, "I regret that I have shunned my father Piandao and made him into an enemy. Both of my parents taught me; family is family", Judel looked at Iroh while he continued, "It is unfair to judge someone who wants to do good now."

"You are more open to possibilities, you may pass."

Azula stepped forward, "I told myself once that looking backwards is foolhardy and having regrets makes you weak; but there is one I have. I wish I could have been the great person my mother wished me to be. I'm not sweet or kind, I'm barely likeable; but this is who I am."

"Very well you may pass. Ty Lee, please step forward."

The Pink Kyoshi nervously faced the figure, playing with her hair, "I regret that when my friends fought that day at Boiling Rock; that I wasn't neutral and silence them both. I ran away from my friends and when they needed me most, I abandoned them. I am so sorry guys."

"You have been cleansed of your guilt."

The Firelady, who was fiddling with the knives in her sleeves, put them in their place and faced the woman. "I regret doing to my parents what they did to me. At Mako's funeral they tried to get in touch with me; but I shut them out; I won't make that mistake again. You never know who you will need."

"You may pass"

After those fit of displays Zuko decided to set the example and be strong in his confession, "I regret not taking the high road and not readily helping my sister. I was caught in the past instead of trying for a bright future."

"You have grown Firelord and your maturity shows through your words, you may enter."

Iroh stepped forward. Suddenly before him was a gold shield that knocked him backward a bit. "Iroh of the Fire Nation you may not enter the temple."

"What why?" said Zuko in shocked.

Iroh waved him off, "It is alright nephew; I gather this would happen; please go ahead."

"What does that mean; you knew you wouldn't be joining us? But, why, what was the point of leading us here?"

"You have something very important to carry out. The world is depending on you and Aang. The very peace of all the nations is hanging in the balance; I beg you, please, go on; this is between the guardian and I"

"Ok Uncle I trust you but please come as soon as you can"

"I will try"

"Please proceed to the portal and find peace," with the flick of her hand she opened the door. As quickly as she opened it; the same swiftness closed it behind them.

Aang took a deep breath and put on a smile; no matter what was going on he had to stay positive. "Now remember guys, we are on a lion-turtle; he gave us a special invitation, so we have to keep even tempered."

"I believe all of us are capable of controlling ourselves," said Azula partly annoyed

"Though we might have to check in on Zuko," Mai joked

The Gaang of fire began to walk down the dimly lit halls. It was disturbing how such a beautiful place, could harbor a morbid glow. This was supposed to be a place of energy; instead it felt dead and cold. On the side of the wall, a tablet caught Sokka's attention. "Hey guys check out the inscription; 'be wary of the temple, allies will become enemies; enemies will become allies and death will come closely'."

"That's what Zhao said," recalled Zuko.

"Nothing like the reminder of impending doom to bring people together," Mai chided

Aang looked back to the Firelady, "All of us are taking this risk for our future. I will keep everyone here safe to the best of my ability."

"Blah, blah, blah, sappy, sappy let's move on, the source of energy is coming from there," said Toph pushing Aang ahead.

"It's going to be so cool to see airbenders of a new generation and I get to be the one to teach them!"

"I know you'll do amazing sweetie," Katara gushed

At hearing this Sokka realized the changes in store for him, "Guess that means I'll be helping Dad with the tribe rebuilding."

Katara slapped her forehead, "Oh no! How could I forget?"

"Hey don't worry about it, I need to spend time with him, it's been a while."

"What about your baby?"

"Well…I'll visit often and when their old enough we'll go on trips."

"And one day all of our kids will hang together!" said Katara with hearts in her eyes.

With a big huff, Toph crossed her arms, "You ain't going to catch me having kids."

"Not even if your husband wants one? I can't believe you would pass up the chance to have a little Toph."

"My students are enough for me. Besides, I said I was going to marry Snooty Fruity; not do anything with him."

"Isn't that unrealistic?" Aang tilted his head questioning.

The master earthbender cut her hand through the air in finality, "Ok this subject is closed! You don't hear me talking to you about how it feels to have the pressure off."

"Well I'm happy to know that there will be more airbenders"

Sokka and Toph burst out in laughter and Katara blushed. Katara whispered in her husband's ear the true meaning of her words. Aang took crimson to his entire face and turned to Toph, "That's vulgar and mean."

"You know what Katara I take it back; I should have never been concerned about your virtue," Toph and Sokka high fived each other.

"You know I have some crazy friends; but they are very entertaining Mai"

In his arms he held a statue of his wife. Upon him glancing at it, it cracked and shattered to rubble. Zuko panicked, "OH no...No...No...NO! Where is Mai?"

"Well Ty Lee you were—"

Azula turned and two statues of her husband and Ty Lee also fragmented, turning to dust, "What in Agni is going on?

Aang examined the contents closely, "They were right here and now they vanished"

"Don't be so blatantly obvious!" Azula chastised

"Why would it do that? It can't do that! Mai is going to have our child. Aang tell the temple to give her up, you have to find her!"

"That's not how it works Zuko. Remember the inscription and what Zhao said, it's trying to separate allies from enemies. We will find them."

The Avatar closed his eyes and focused his attention on all of the sounds. From what he learned from his friend; he stomped on the ground using earthbending and used seismic senses to gather what was going on. "Hey Toph can you feel that?"

"Yeah, it's like they're here somehow in this same room; I can hear them."

Zuko paced between the pair wringing his hands in anxiety, "She needs me; she can't have the baby without me, I can't let her go through this alone, not again"

Azula was becoming agitated with her brother's unreasonable nature, "We aren't going to find them by being reckless; use your head Zuzu!"

"Don't you get it? She almost died giving birth to Mako, what if I'm not—"

Azula slapped Zuko hard in his face. He rubbed his cheek stunned. "Get a hold of yourself! Now obviously the Avatar and this Toph can sense their presence. It would be logical to find her through those methods. Put your foolish and weak emotions aside!"

Zuko conceded, "You are right; but you didn't have to slap me."

"If dragon lady wasn't going to do it I was."

"I hate to agree with them," Katara chimed in, "but I was going to do it too. Let's keep focused. Toph, can you feel where they are?"

"Yeah but it's kind of complicated; this place ain't normal."

"I told you it's a lion-turtle maybe we offended it somehow."

"Nah I don't think it's all spiritual woo, woo like that. Like you said it's setting the stage for what's about to happen."

Aang, without warning, went into a trance. He swayed back and forth, face devoid of emotion. His feet shuffle forward. Katara stared at her husband worried. "Sweetie what's wrong?"

Still caught up in his trance, he kept going, resolute on some unknown mission. As Katara went to touch him; she was blocked by an invisible force field.

"He can't hear you," Sokka surmised, "but maybe we are meant to follow him."

"This is so eerie it really is like the time of Sozin's comet when he disappeared and he came back different, more enlightened. This is probably how it started."

Azula rolled her eyes in a huff, "We are wasting time with useless dialogue. There needs to be more action and fewer words!"

Sokka pointed an accusatory finger at her, "Don't you talk to my sister like that!"

"What kind of imbecile starts an invisible argument? Don't you have a world to save?"

"That attitude right there proves my point; you manipulated your husband into marrying you. Poor Judel is so naive he never stood a chance against you. What a fool to defend you!"

Azula faced Sokka head on, "You keep my husband's name out of your mongrel mouth!"

"So suddenly 'Miss put together' has a soft spot. How does it feel to have your loved ones threatened?"

"You're not even a challenge for my infant daughter; what will you do to me Sokka, cry."

"That does it; you and me NOW!"

"Hey you two break it up, we aren't getting anywhere"

"Stay out of this Zuzu, let the non-bender think he has an advantage over me."

Bright azure flames licked around her hands and suddenly they extinguished. Azula shocked tried to bend once more but nothing came of it. Sokka overconfident drew his ebony space sword. Before any of them could begin their battle Aang stepped between them. He laid his hand on Sokka and Azula's shoulders. Both froze in place as his tattoo's glowed brightly and with a blinding flash the group vanished from the room.

On the other side of the temple, Ty Lee began to tug at her hair furiously she felt something in the air. It felt like a mixture of anger and sadness. She hated being so caught up in her empathy it was one of those things that wouldn't allow her to rest. The image and vision kept going through her mind; the dead woman without a face. She shuttered trying to keep herself together; Mai needed her. It wasn't that she didn't trust Judel; however, they had only just met. She found herself staring at Azula's husband and recalls the baby Xiourong. How the child favors Judel so and he changed the landscape of Azula's life for all time. It was time for her to get to know him better and to know what his skills are. After all, who knew what was going to happen. This place was unpredictable at best. The Avatar had mentioned something about this temple being a lion-turtle. It made sense and accounted for all of her feelings. Ty Lee took a deep breath and distracted herself from this tragedy. "So Judel, do you know how to deliver babies?"

"My mother is…was a midwife. She delivered me and I became adopted when my birth mother passed. I'm sure Mai doesn't want to hear that story though."

"It's ok," Mai said stroking her belly, "I already know what's going to happen to me. I just want this little one to enter this world safely."

"I have some first aid items in my satchel in case such events were to occur. My mother always told me to be over prepared."

At that Ty Lee and Mai both shared an uneasy look. This man while not perfect was a gentleman and strong. He grew up with adversities and triumphed over every one. "I know that look you are wondering how did Azula come to have me?"

"I'm sorry," said Ty Lee sheepishly, "Its just—"

"If you knew what we knew about her," Mai finished for her sentence, "You would feel the same way."

Judel blew steam from his nose. He was so sick and tired of defending his choice in Azula. If it weren't for her, he would be much worse off than he is now. After his mother's death she saved him. Having a relationship with Piandao wouldn't even be in the realm of possibilities. If they only knew how angry he would have kept on being at the world, at everyone. How could they not understand? Sure, his wife was broken down by the time she arrived in Binjwen. Their first meeting was not pleasant. Azula constantly insulted him and on many occasions called him a half-breed. What he saw that her friends and relatives didn't see was that Azula was all bravado and deep down she wanted her independence but being controlled by Ozai took her on the wrong path. Deep down his wife hated herself but didn't see the need to change because she didn't see what it was going to gain her. As he thought about Azula the tension left his body. There was only one way to approach this. "Ty Lee is it?"

Ty Lee turned to him nodding her head slowly. "I know you have seen my daughter, Xiourong haven't you?"

"Of course, she's such a happy baby and so adorable."

"Xiourong sees what I see; our loved one."

"I suppose it's just going to take us one day at a time to accept facts. We just started to become friendly with each other. Trust doesn't happen in a day."

As Mai watched her friend and brother in law speaking, a jarring sharp pain in her abdomen made her collapse. The intensity of it made her eyes shut. The baby was on its way but she couldn't form the words. This was the world's shortest pregnancy and already she began to worry. She reached down in her clothing and saw bright red blood. Agni no, she prayed, please, not this one. I can't die before Zuko has his child. Her water proceeded to break and all she could feel was her life slipping through her fingers. Mai resolved quickly. She would deliver this healthy baby into the world. Her world was like a dream. She reached out for Ty Lee and tried to listen for the words push. Judel gave her his coat, wearing only his undershirt. Her friend was so far away, what was she saying? The world was so colorful like a painting. It was as if ink were smearing across the room. A blob was dancing behind Judel. He used his green fire to defend them and the monster went away. Mai was slipping further and further away and tried to hold on. Ty Lee was crying her eyes out and tried to say the words she needed through hiccups to keep Mai alive. The Firelady just wanted to hear the cries of her child and pray that he stay with Zuko. She could be with her son Mako and things would be alright.

Mai heard it; a soft wail, as if it were coming from the bottom of the well. "It's a girl Mai."

That was all she needed to hear. With that Mai smirked happily and fell asleep.

Ty Lee shook her friend violently. This couldn't be happening right now. She held the newborn close to her chest and wrapped it closer in Judel's jacket. This was a cruel dream and when Ty Lee woke up, Mai would be alive. She was only fooling herself. It was going to take a village and love and care to support this new one into the unknowns of life. Out of nowhere; Ty Lee felt something push her. She held the baby protectively over her chest and held her ground. Judel fell beside Mai eyes closed and shaking. The pink Kyoshi's body felt heavy; but she took a look at the muffled crying babe just to make sure all was well. The newborn's eyes were shut as her caterwauling echoed throughout the temple walls. Ty Lee tried to silence the infant when she saw black ink dripping on its body. With one hand on the infant she slowly stroked her and pulled back the same ink.

This ink turned my hair black. The realization hit Ty Lee with a strong certainty; all of the visions they weren't about anybody else, it was about her. She kissed the newborn on the head softly and covered the babes face with the blanket laying her besides Mai. The sound of a thousand insect legs echoed toward her. With a slow gulp the pink Kyoshi put all of her emotions to the side and turned to the figure. The tall imposing figure stood over her; its body like a centipede. This was for the four nations. Zuko deserved his wife and child and to be honest, he had enough loss. In the short time Ty Lee knew Judel; she knew for sure how important to Azula he is. Family needs to be together. Her sisters and mother would have to understand…her sacrifice.

Ty Lee opened her eyes, beholding the face of a blue dragon face and horns. With that she stood determined and looked into its blue fiery eyes.

She was at peace…her destiny fulfilled.

The pair of siblings and Toph had found themselves walking in circles, since losing track of Aang. Katara had been concerned for her husband's safety, yes he is the Avatar, but that made matters even more pressing. He's the bridge, she told herself. Just like any structure though, they could break or fall or—she interrupted her sullen thoughts. She trusted Aang and if something were to happen, well, if everything is true, there will be new airbenders. Ugh! Katara was trying to stay concentrated but her brother was being grating. Every time they hit a dead end he would flail around like a pig-chicken. If she could freeze him in a block of ice—Before she could complete that thought Sokka grunted loudly, throwing up his hands and folding his arms, "We're lost, completely and totally lost; worse field trip ever!"

This was Katara's limit, "It's a giant temple Sokka and we're not lost; there has to be a secret door somewhere."

"Wow that's a switch; aren't things usually the other way around?"

"I can't strategize on an empty stomach Zuko!"

The master earthbender covered her ears. Her friends constant bickering was making her feel woozy. Everything was spinning until she collapsed backward on her rump. Why were her eyes so itchy and what was this gunk? She wiped at her face and clawed at it. She peeled her hands from her face and things were… What the rock slide? Before her eyes swirling blurs; was this light? Slowly the weird looking orbs transformed to tall bands. She gasped and couldn't believe what was happening, "G...guys," said Toph lowly

"Maybe if you rationed your food better—"

"Oh, Oh, make fun of the guy with the healthy appetite, Ms. Preachy!"

The images before reminded her of the sound waves she uses to "see". Instead in her case these outlines were becoming more into focus. If she could only form more than one word, "Guys!" she said weakly.

"Healthy appetite; please, more like bottomless pit!"

Now there were more things rushing toward her like waves. The outlines became more distinct and formed into people. Next came, the deciphering between pale and what she could only surmise as color. Her friends were face to face shouting and she was not only hearing it. There was only one way to get their attention. "GUYS!"

"WHAT?" they shouted in unison.

Zuko shook his head at the water tribe siblings; clearly, she was trying to tell them something. He crouched down to Toph; who was on the floor, overwhelmed, "Y...your eyes they're green; but the film is gone from them. Can...Can you-"

"I can see, I can really see," she said in amazement.

"How is that possible?"

Toph looked at Zuko and felt his face. "Zuko your scar—"

Suddenly self-conscious Zuko pulled back from her and turned away, "I know it's hideous, probably not the first thing you wanted to lay your eyes on.

"No…it's gone."

"What?" Zuko looked at her incredulously, but oddly enough Toph regained sight. His whole life was the permanent example his father taught him. It was his badge of shame and honor. Dare he look? He delicately ran his fingers just to graze his scar and felt…nothing. Was this real? He grabbed Toph's headband, yanking the poor traumatized, now seeing earthbender, glancing at his reflection. "It is gone."

"Well this is just—" water splashed out of Sokka's hands, causing him to scream.

Sokka made himself, so proficient in being a non-bender. For years, he looked to find his usefulness among his friends, even his sister. He always thought if both of them were benders he could have saved his dear sweet mother. He couldn't fathom this moment; all of those years of powerlessness; all of the concentration it took to learn skills that pushed him to grow as the man he is today. Just a flick of his wrist and he was a bender and nothing else mattered. Sokka raised up his hands as water came out, he almost felt giddy; until a loud grumble from his belly reminded him of a more pressing matter. "Magic water great...I'm still hungry. Stupid bending; could this get anymore strange?"

Azula at this time was observing everyone with fascination. She was intrigued nonetheless. What is this temple trying to do? She laid a contemplative finger to her chin. Perhaps this is all a part of an elaborate distraction, by fulfilling our desires we won't seek the energy bending room. Furthermore, I believe this lion-turtle we are on, only wants to speak with The Avatar. She was coming up with more questions than answers. What she was thinking, while great suppositions, were nowhere near making any sort of logical sense. That inscription, Zhao's words, enemies will be allies and allies will be enemies and death will come closely. Of what use would it be to reward a person only to remind them that death wouldn't be far behind. It could have been a last wish of sorts. It was the first words that gave her pause on her theories, "be wary", but why? Azula stared at the wall and shrugged it away, this was something to keep tucked in her—what was this chill in her body? It was as if something familiar was in the room. Then right there walking from a secret entrance, it made her stop dead in her tracks. She was shaking inside; this was a cruel trick; how could this be real? She found herself staring at a young man wearing all white. There were too many emotions she had within her to grasp. Floods of tears came pouring from her as she nearly hyperventilated. This garnished the attention of everyone. Zuko had never seen his sister this way, but when he looked over to where she was staring he himself, was frozen in place. It was like a scene from a play. This was the shocking scene that the audience was mesmerized by. Nothing about this was fantasy in the least. He still found himself bolted to the floor. The figure walked closer to Zuko. Sokka trying to protect his friend at all cost on instinct stepped in front of Zuko and Toph, "You random guy I order you to stay back!"

Ignoring Sokka altogether he reached for Zuko's hand, "Alright you asked for it! Go, water bending powers!"

Sokka bent the water backwards that covered Katara's face with a sheet of ice; which she quickly melted away. "Leave the bending to the experts."

"Sorry."

Finally mustering the courage Azula and Zuko went up to the stranger and stroked his hair, felt his face. Zuko cried and hugged the man. Azula was pulled into an embrace. "Okayyy this is getting awkward; who is this guy?"

The man turned to all of them and smirked softly. That small gesture, Sokka thought, he looked so much like a younger version of certain retired Fire Nation General. The man looked up from the embrace holding Azula and Zuko at his side "Allow me to introduce myself. I am their cousin, Lu Ten: I will be your guide through this temple."