Hello, benders and nonbenders alike! Another two-parter episode that I've combined into one chapter so you don't have to deal with cliffhangers. Don't know what I'll do when we come to the finale. But that is for future me to figure out. In the meantime please enjoy the chapter before you. I don't own anything, Avatar the Last Airbender belongs to Nick. Enjoy!

The Boiling Rock

The Gaang sat around a fire at the Western Air Temple. Once dinner was finished Zuko was kind enough to make tea for everyone. He had been trying his best to try and get in the group's good graces. After their adventure with the Sun Warriors, he and Aang were on good terms. Toph had been treating him like she had the rest of the group since the beginning. The Duke and Taro were mainly indifferent. Haru was a bit awkward around him which made sense considering his crush on Celina. Katara continued with her displeasure regarding Zuko's existence, freely making that displeasure known. Something that caused plenty of tension between her and Celina. But at least her brother was trying after their conversation in the Pai Sho room.

So all in all things were going okay.

"No one can make tea like Uncle. But hopefully I learned a thing or two," Zuko said as he poured the tea. "Would you like to hear Uncle's favorite tea joke?"

"Sure," Katara said, not really caring.

"I like jokes," Aang smiled.

"Bring it," Toph said.

"Okay. Well, I can't remember how it starts but the punchline is, 'Leaf me alone, I'm bushed'." The group gave him a deadpan look while Celina shot him a small sympathetic smile. "Well, it's funnier when Uncle tells it."

Trying to move past the bad joke Zuko began handing out tea cups.

"Right. Maybe that's because he remembers the whole thing," Katara sassed, causing the group to break out into laughter.

Zuko couldn't help but smile, self-aware enough to appreciate the joke. After he finished passing out the tea Zuko took a seat next to Celina. She cuddled up to his side, cradling her cup of tea in her hands.

"It's nice to get a chance to relax a little," Toph said. "It hardly ever happens."

For a moment everyone took in the moment of peace. Celina took a sip of her tea. Zuko was right that it was nowhere near his Uncle's. The tea leaves got a little too burnt in the boiling process but it was far from the worst cup she'd ever consumed. That award went to Toph after she took it upon herself to try and make tea one day several months ago. It was basically a cup of watery mud with tea leaves floating in it.

The moment was interrupted however by Sokka asking if he could speak to Zuko for a second. Both of them stood up and walked off to where Appa was resting to talk. They were gone for a little while before returning to the campfire. Celina couldn't help but notice the wary look Zuko gave her brother.

"What was that about?" she whispered.

"Later."

As everyone finished up with their cups of tea Celina and Zuko offered to do the washing up. Something the others were more than happy to let them do. Gathering all the empty cups and bowls the two headed off. With Celina's waterbending abilities, the washing would be quick, leaving the two of them to discuss what happened with Sokka.

"Your brother was asking me about Fire Nation prisons. He wanted to know where they might have sent your guys' dad," Zuko told her.

"Did you tell him?"

"After some prodding, yes. Sokka wasn't exactly being subtle in trying to get more information out of me. My guess is he plans on sneaking in to try and break your dad out."

"I'm assuming it's a fool's errand, trying to save Hakoda?"

Zuko nodded. "Boiling Rock, where I can only assume Hakoda was taken, is the highest security prison in the Fire Nation. It's known for being inescapable."

"And yet my brother's gonna try to do it anyway."

"Most likely. I kinda got the idea nothing was gonna stop him from trying. Which is why I'm going with him."

Celina's eyes widened in surprise. She instinctively went to protest but stopped any words from escaping. There was no way she wanted either of them to try to sneak into a highly secure prison. It was the stupidest thing she could think of. But she knew her brother's guilt would drive him to do stupid things. And she trusted Zuko. Celina let out a deep sigh before throwing herself into a hug,

"Promise me you'll keep each other safe."

Zuko held her tightly. "I promise."

o

That night Celina and Zuko snuck into Appa's saddle. While Celina wasn't going on the mission she wanted to confront her brother about it. And knowing Sokka he would think about stealing Appa in the middle of the night would be the way to go. Their assumption was correct as an hour or two after everyone went to bed Sokka climbed up onto Appa.

"Not up to anything, huh?" Zuko said.

Sokka yelped in surprise and fell backward onto the temple floor. He was a bit embarrassed but got up anyway, a determined look in his eye.

"Fine, you caught me. I'm gonna rescue my dad. You happy now?" Sokka said.

"I'm never happy."

"Liar," Celina said, elbowing Zuko in his side.

"Look, I have to do this. The invasion plan was my idea. It was my decision to stay when things were going wrong. You saw how many people stayed behind because of that."

Celina did remember. All of the adults stayed behind. It was a noble sacrifice and one that those people made on their own. Everyone knew the risks they were taking when joining the invasion party. But once again a guilty conscience wouldn't let Sokka see it that way.

"It's my mistake and it's my job to fix it. I have to regain my honor. You two can't stop me."

The two of them jumped down off of Appa to talk to Sokka on an equal level. That and to try and get him away from the sleeping sky bison.

"We're not."

"You need to regain your honor? Believe me, I get it. I'm going with you."

"No. I have to do this alone," Sokka protested.

"How are you going to get there? On Appa? Last time I checked prisons don't have bison daycares."

"And I'm pretty sure Aang wouldn't be too happy to find him missing when he wakes up in the morning," Celina added.

"We'll take my war balloon."

Finally accepting help Sokka nodded. Zuko led them toward the exit of the temple. He had been able to park his war balloon not far from there after officially joining the group. Sokka was quick to jump aboard, searching around the ship to see if it still resembled the prototype he helped pilot. Celina walked up to the side of the ship and watched as Zuko boarded. He shot a quick glance to make sure Sokka wasn't looking before leaning down and giving Celina a deep goodbye kiss. The two decided after their reunion not to show too much affection since the group wasn't entirely comfortable with Zuko being around. But considering he and Sokka were leaving on a dangerous mission he decided to take the risk. Something that Celina happily accepted.

After the kiss, Zuko rested his forehead against Celina's. "You better keep your promise," she said.

"I will."

"Because otherwise I'm probably gonna go all vengeful spirit. And I really don't want to commit mass murder in a love-induced rage." Both laughed but also knew that it was a possibility if things didn't go well.

"You know what you'll tell the others?"

"Probably that you two are off running an errand. That should be vague enough to get past Toph's lie detector."

"Wait, you aren't coming with us?" Sokka asked, finally paying attention.

Zuko and Celina quickly broke apart from each other, a light blush of embarrassment painted their faces. She cleared her throat, refocusing.

"No. Having two of you break in is risky enough. Three would only complicate things more. Besides, it'll be good to have someone on the outside who actually knows what you two are doing. Especially if we have to come save your butts."

Sokka nodded to himself and took in her information. "Tell them that I told you we were going on a fishing trip and should be back in a few days. That way you don't have to dance around the truth as much. I suggest you leave her with training instructions for Aang for an added step."

"Ugh… Tell him to do twenty sets of fire fists and ten hot squats every time a badger frog croaks," Zuko quickly made up, causing Celina to chuckle.

"Will do." Celina stepped back and watched as the boys began to get ready for takeoff. As the ship lifted into the air she shouted one last message to them. "Be safe!"

The two waved goodbye before heading towards the Boiling Rock prison. Celina wrapped her arms around herself. She was still uneasy with their plan, but at this point, all she could do was hope and trust they would make it out okay. Watching the night sky Celina stayed until she could hardly spot the war balloon. When it was only a speck in the sky she headed back to camp, looking to get a few hours of sleep before waking up and having to lie to her friends.

o

Morning came quickly. Between being awake for a good part of the night and tossing and turning Celina didn't sleep much. So she was one of the first ones up. She started on breakfast while instructing The Duke on where to find hay for Appa. Mixing up some congee she watched the others begin to wake up. After the normal amount of grogginess, Katara and Aang looked around confused, noticing the absence of two of their group members.

"Where are Sokka and Zuko?" Aang asked.

"Oh, Sokka told me he and Zuko were going on a fishing trip. Said they should be back in a few days."

She was relieved to see them all accept the information she provided and get on with starting their day.

"Woohoo! I get some days off!" Aang cheered.

"Don't think you're getting out of work that easily. Zuko told me to tell you to keep up the firebending practice. You have to do twenty sets of fire fists and ten hot squats every time a badger frog croaks," Celina told him.

As if on cue a badger frog hopped up to the group and croaked. Aang frowned before standing up, grumbling about how unfair it was that only he had homework. Everyone chucked as the badger frog gave another croak and watched as Aang began his sets of exercises. Celina made sure to set aside a big bowl of congee for when he was finished.

o

Up in the clouds, the boys hadn't spoken much, sticking to their own projects. Zuko stood at the fuel tank, using his bending to increase the balloon's burner flame when necessary. Sokka in the meantime inspected the ship while it was in flight but eventually settled in a corner. The two fell into an awkward quietness, occasionally looking at the other to start up a conversation. Something that Sokka eventually did.

"You know, a friend of mine actually designed these war balloons."

"No kidding."

"Yep. A balloon. But for war."

"There's one thing my Dad's good at." Zuko turned back to the fuel tank but kept up the conversation. "War."

"Yeah, it seems to run in the family."

"Hey, hold on. Not everyone in my family is like that."

"I know, I know, you've changed."

"I meant my Uncle. He was more of a father to me. And I really let him down."

"I think your Uncle would be proud of you. Leaving your home to come help us, that's hard."

"It wasn't that hard. Celina really helped and was such a rock for me as I acknowledged how messed up my family and Nation are and that I don't have to follow in those footsteps." Zuko let out a little laugh thinking back to the early days of the dream connection. "Even when we were still butting heads. I'm really lucky to have found her."

Sokka was still hesitant about his sister's and Zuko's relationship. It was hard not to be considering how long Zuko chased them around. But since apologizing to Celina he'd been paying attention. Seeing how relaxed they became with the other around, even with the tension from the rest of the Gang. How the both of them yearned to touch each other in some manner but kept any romantic interaction modest amongst the group. Though sometimes Sokka managed to catch them trying to sneak a kiss or two like they did before he and Zuko took off. But the more he watched them the more he found them fitting each other.

"You really care about each other don't you?" he asked.

Zuko smiled. "More than anything. We are soulmates after all. What about you? You have… a person?"

Sokka leaned back against the basket of the airship. "My first girlfriend turned into the moon."

The oddness of his sentence caused Zuko to pause. But then again, considering his girlfriend was a spirit it wasn't the weirdest thing he ever heard.

"That's rough buddy."

o

Celina sat by the temple's reflection pool, gently running the tips of her fingers over the surface of the water. Her body felt sore from a morning of firebending practice. Not having access to Fang and Roku for nightly training with Zuko away, Celina made up for it by pushing herself. She let out a sigh.

The dream connection was so quiet the previous night. She figured the boys would have been traveling all day and night but that didn't make it any less lonely when Zuko didn't show up. Finally together only to be pulled apart yet again. It wasn't that great of a feeling. A longing that settled itself into her heart. She wondered if that was a normal feeling or if it was worsened by her and Zuko's soulmate connection.

She sighed and moved to lie down on the cool stone tiles. More spirit stuff interfering with her life. At least the tiles felt nice against her aching muscles. Her sulking was interrupted by the patting of feet approaching her. Looking up she was surprised to see that it was Aang. The young airbender looked tired, no doubt from the continuous firebending stances Zuko assigned.

"Coming to take a break from your homework?" Celina teased.

"Uh, I must have done hundreds of firebending sets this morning. My legs are sore from all the hot squats."

As if on cue Aang's legs gave out, causing him to tiredly fall to the floor. Celina couldn't help but giggle as she sat herself up.

"I think it's acceptable to take the rest of the day off. Don't worry, I won't mention it to Zuko."

"Thanks. So what are you doing in here?"

"Eh, giving my muscles a break from bending practice. It's been intense learning a new form of bending. Gives me an idea of what you've been dealing with if only just a bit."

Aang nodded in response, looking away from her and down at his hands which were playing with a nonexistent loose thread on his pants. He was quiet but Celina could see a question brewing. The playfulness left as she switched over to a more careful approach.

"What is it? What's up?"

"You know how I told you I couldn't access the Avatar State? I was thinking that maybe I should try to at least unlock it."

"Oh…. Uh, okay."

"Do you think you can help?"

Longing for Zuko was quickly pushed aside as different ideas on how to tackle Aang's problem raced through Celina's mind. The biggest obstacle being the hurt Avatar Spirit, Raava. Celina could still recall the spirit's resistance back when Aang was recovering from Azula's attack. She doubted approaching the spirit like she had in the past wouldn't do any good.

"Well, I can certainly try."

Some of the nervousness left Aang as he sat up straighter and the look in his eyes was replaced with determination.

"Okay. So where do we start?"

"Um… sit like you would when you meditate but give me your hands. You're gonna look inward since that's where the problem will likely lie. I've done it before when I had problems with my spirit abilities and firebending. Except this time we're going to try and bring me along to your inner world."

She wasn't sure it would work but it was the only plan Celina could think of. Thankfully Aang went along with it and soon the two were sitting across from each other with their hands connected. Taking a deep breath they closed their eyes. It took a moment but Celina soon felt herself being pulled into Aang's center of being.

It was similar to her own inner world in a sense. Stars surrounded the two of them, but below the glowing platform they stood on was a view of what must have been the Earth from space. Aang shifted nervously in his spot, his last experience with his inner center most likely being when Azula shot him down while in the Avatar State.

"Oh, I wasn't expecting it to be so… empty," Celina commented.

"Is that a problem?" Aang asked.

"Hopefully not. But that all depends on you."

"Me?"

"This is your inner world. Your center. And from it looks like you've chosen to isolate yourself from anything. I was at least sure we'd see your bending abilities."

"I don't remember seeing them in the past. Only a path that led straight to what I think is my Avatar Spirit."

"Well, did you ever go down the other end?" Aang shook his head no. "Perhaps we can ease into things by visiting them before tackling the main issue."

"But how?"

"By creating a path. This is your center, you are the one who's in charge here. Even if things here try to fight you over it. Now, concentrate. Create your pathways."

Aang nodded and focused on what was in front of him. Slowly, Celina watched as sparkles of light flickered before solidifying into a winding pathway. The airbender's eyes brightened upon seeing what he did. A quick look over to Celina and the two headed down the new path.

They walked for a little bit before coming to four splits in the paths, each leading to an elemental orb. Something Celina was familiar with. The largest of the orbs was his control over air with the rest of the elemental orbs descending in size. Water then earth then fire, the newest element Aang was learning. She couldn't feel anything radiating from them, but then again it was Aang's center, Celina was simply granted the kindness of visitation.

She stood at the start of the forking paths while Aang took in the representations of his bending abilities. Aang walked up to his airbending, stopping right in front of the large orb. Tears dotted the corners of his eyes as he reached out to touch his air ability. A smile spread across Aang's face, comforted by his longest and most reliable bending. He stood there for a while before blinking away the tears.

Part of him wanted to go and visit with his other bending abilities but a glimpse of Celina reminded him of why the two of them were visiting his center to begin with. So turning from his air ability Aang made his way back to Celina, hesitant but ready to continue with their goal.

"Is this what we're looking for? To unlock my Avatar State?" he asked.

"No, I think we gotta head down the other end of the path. It's there that we'll hopefully find Raava."

She could see some hesitance in Aang's eyes at the mention of the other end of the path. But the young airbender pushed the feelings aside and the two headed down to the other end. It was a long walk down a singular pathway, giving Aang time to ask more questions.

"So, what does Raava look like?"

"I'm not really sure. At first she was just a spiritual presence I felt when healing you. When I discovered that it was your Avatar Spirit it wasn't like I got a clear image of what she looked like. The most I could make out was a bright white essence." Celina explained.

It wasn't much of a description to go off of, but it was something. Considering the two of them were surrounded by stars above and the earth below, Raava would stick out.

And stick out she did. Celina and Aang came to a sudden stop upon spotting something on the path in front of them. It looked like a small glowing white kite with light blue markings. But the spiritual energy, though dampened, very much felt like the Avatar Spirit that Celina had previously interacted with.

"Raava," Aang breathed out in question and disbelief.

"Hello, Aang," the spirit answered, weakly lifting her head to greet him. "Ah, Passion, we meet properly."

Celina gave her a soft smile as she and Aang knelt down next to her. "I just wish it was during better circumstances."

"I don't understand. Celina saved me, she brought me back from the dead. Why won't you let her heal you?" Aang asked.

"It's a bit complicated."

The complication made its appearance in the spiritual forms over several past Avatars. There was a man with a small chin beard and two long strips of mustache hanging down. He was dressed from head to toe in the signature reds of the Fire Nation. Next to him was a woman dressed in yellows and oranges with long brown hair, though part of the front was shaved off in favor of showing off the arrow tattoos of a master airbender. And the final and most intimidating of the three was Kyoshi.

"I refuse to let that interloper anymore involved with Avatar business than she's already inserted herself into," Kyoshi stated.

"The young spirit should not have left the Spirit World to begin with," the other female Avatar said.

"If only her parents had stayed in their lane," the male Avatar added.

Celina wanted to protest but she was interrupted by the appearance of three more past Avatars. One of them she recognized to be Roku, and part of her couldn't help but relax a bit seeing an Avatar that liked her besides Aang. Then there was a man dressed in Water Tribe clothing who wore the head of a polar bear dog as a headdress. And right next to him was a man dressed in faded red robes that were slightly tattered.

"That's enough. Our ire for the girl has gone on for way too long," Roku said.

"We should be grateful she is on our side," the Water Tribe Avatar stated.

"Not trying to scare her off," the remaining Avatar said.

While the six older Avatars fought back and forth with each other regarding Celina, the young spirit stayed on the ground with Aang next to Raava. Hesitant to leave the injured spirits side even with the hostility that was quickly growing.

"I recognize Roku and Kyoshi, but who are the others?" Celina asked the two, making sure to keep her voice low.

"Well, there's Avatar Kuruk, from the Northern Water Tribe. Avatar Yangchen from the Western Air Temple. Avatar Szeto from the Fire Nation," Aang began to explain.

"And Avatar Wan, the first ever Avatar," Raava finished off.

Celina was a bit in awe. The original Avatar was on her side along with Roku and Kuruk, a waterbender Avatar. Ever since her journey began she'd faced nothing but contempt from Aang's past lives. She thought having Roku apologize for his actions because of the familial connection would be the most she'd get. But there were two others taking her side. Not only that but Celina had come a long way from the scared girl she was initially. She had fought and learned and grown as a person and bender.

Feeling courage swell inside her Celina stood. Ready to face her critics head-on.

"Enough!" The Avatars ceased their shouting, surprised by Celina's objection. "This grudge has gone on far too long. I understand how hurtful it can feel to have someone else step in to do your job. And I'm sorry my task has made you feel that way. But you are all Avatars. And part of the Avatar's job is the connection to the Spirit World as well. Something that has been highly affected by the war too. Hei Bai, Wan Shi Tong, Tui and La… my father….

"It is not my intention to step in and become a replacement Avatar. We are on the same side. I've fought alongside Aang and helped teach him, heal him. He has become one of my closest friends. All I want is to end the war and help bring peace to both realms. And I believe in order to do that we must work together. So if you want to continue disliking me and my parents fine, you do that. But please, allow me to heal Raava, the spirit that has bound you all together."

Everyone was quiet as they stared wide-eyed at Celina. Aang in amazement; Roku, Kuruk, and Wan with pride; and Kyoshi, Yangchen, and Szeto in surprise. Her body buzzed with adrenaline as Celina waited with bated breath.

Yangchen was the first to turn, her eyes softening after taking in Celina's speech. Szeto didn't provide a smile but Celina could see something in his eyes change. Only Kyoshi kept the same unimpressed look on her face.

"So, the young spirit has finally grown a backbone." There was silence as Kyoshi sized up Celina before looking down at Raava. The Avatar's head snapped back in Celina's direction. "Well, what are you waiting for? Get to it?"

Celina's eyes widened in surprise but simply nodded before kneeling down next to Raava. It felt like everyone had released a breath as a truce was settled between the past Avatars and the young spirit. Perhaps she wouldn't have as good a relationship with some compared to others.

"Are you ready, Raava?"

"I've been ready for a while."

Not wanting to make the spirit wait any longer, Celina gently set her hands over the bruised part of Raava's body. A bright glow emitted from both of them as Celina used her spirit abilities to heal the long hurting spirit. All the Avatars were forced to look away as it became practically blinding. As the glow dimmed all of them turned back to see that Raava was no longer small, but towered above each of them. Celina smiled sweetly as she looked up at the healed spirit.

"Thank you, Spirit of Passion."

In a blink of an eye, Aang and Celina were back at the Air Temple, sitting right across from each other. They were a bit taken aback by everything that had happened in Aang's core and just sat and stared at each other for a moment. It was Aang who moved first, reaching forward and hugging her.

"Thank you, Celina."

She simply smiled softly and hugged him back.

o

Zuko stood at the zeppelin's wheel, manning the ship on his own for the moment. Chit Sang was somewhere staring out a window, enjoying the look of freedom their escape provided. Sokka was hesitant to leave Zuko to handle the airship on his own but Zuko waved him off, telling him to take the time to catch up with his dad and Suki. Something Sokka was extremely grateful for. Besides, it gave Zuko time to think about all Mai and Ty Lee had done for them in aiding their escape from Boiling Rock and Azula.

He never expected after breaking up with Mai and leaving to aid the Avatar that his sister's friends would stand up and help him escape. But perhaps Zuko and Mai's relationship meant more to Mai than he thought. Perhaps the summer they spent together sparked the idea of resistance against his sister. Whatever the case, Zuko hoped that they would be alright.

His thoughts were interrupted as Hakoda entered the cockpit. Zuko still didn't know what to think of the man. He was hesitant to be around him, not only as the son of the Fire Lord who had been tormenting the world for years but also as the one who was dating his adoptive daughter. Even after agreeing to go on this adventure with Sokka to find his dad, Zuko didn't think about how he'd be meeting one of his girlfriend's fathers.

"Everything looking good?" Hakoda asked.

"Uh, yeah. We, um, we should arrive back at the temple around nightfall."

Hakoda nodded and stepped up to Zuko, looking out the window at the clear skies. "I didn't think I'd ever meet my daughter's soulmate during a prison break."

"Sokka told you?"

"I've known about you and Celina ever since the Day of Black Sun. It was quite a surprise, to say the least. But I'm happy to know that my daughter has found love and happiness with someone. Not that you two need my approval."

Zuko simply nodded but remained quiet. He didn't really know what to say. Sokka's relationship with Hakoda was so different from Celina's. She had told him about her past with her adoptive family during their nights together. How after her adoptive mother died things changed. But Zuko knew abusive fathers, he had the evidence on his face for the world to see. And although he hadn't spent much time with the leader of the Southern Water Tribe there was a feeling in his gut that told him Hakoda wasn't as bad as Celina's stories suggested.

"You and Celina don't have a good relationship, do you?"

Hakoda hung his head in shame. "No. And it's entirely my fault."

"How?" Zuko asked, curious about Hakoda's view of what went wrong.

"I wasn't there for my children after my wife died. I was so focused on doing what was right to stop the war and give them a better future. Out of the three of them, it was Celina who received the most of my neglect. I should have seen the way our tribe was treating her. The insults, the ostracization. The Water Tribe is about family and community but she was being made to feel like she wasn't a part of that. I should have stood up and protected my daughter like she needed me to.

"When I finally had a glimpse of clarity before I left I thought that maybe finding her a husband would be for the best. Someone that could protect her like I couldn't. Luckily that thought didn't stick, especially after her grandmother rightfully knocked some sense into me. I never thought my brief lapse of judgment would get back to her but it was clear after our reunion it had. After that, I understood why she was so distant. I caused her so much pain. I committed the greatest sin in making my daughter feel unloved. It is one of my biggest regrets."

There was silence for a while as Zuko took everything in. Some things that he said matched up with what Celina told him. But Hakoda didn't sound like this horrible father. Just someone whose heart is in the right place but who made mistakes along the way and was willing to make up for it. He reminded Zuko of his uncle a bit.

"You know… there's still time to make things right. Apologize. I know Celina can hold a grudge, but I also know what it's like to earn her forgiveness."

Hakoda smiled and patted Zuko's shoulder. "Don't worry, I plan on it. You're a good kid, Zuko. I'm glad Celina found you…. How was it you two got together by the way?"

A dark blush overtook Zuko's face.

o

It was late at night when the zeppelin arrived at the Western Air Temple. Celina, Katara, Aang, and Toph were there to meet whoever was inside. Luckily for them, it wasn't the villainous Fire Nation princess but Sokka and Zuko who emerged.

"What are you doing in this thing? What happened to the war balloon?" Katara questioned.

"It kind of got destroyed," Zuko answered, heading over to give Celina a hug. He didn't miss the eyebrow raise she gave him, knowing he'd have to explain more later. Still, he held her tight, happy to be reunited with his soulmate.

"Sounds like a crazy fishing trip," Aang said.

"Did you at least get some good meat?" Toph asked.

"I did," Sokka said. "The best meat of all. The meat of friendship and fatherhood."

It was then that Suki and Hakoda disembarked from the ship along with Chit Sang. Though Celina and Katara paid little attention to him. Katara flung herself into her father's arms while Celina pulled herself away from Zuko and hugged Suki.

"Suki! Spirits, I'm so happy to see you. I knew you're awesome but I didn't know you were maximum security prison awesome."

"Believe it. Speaking of things we didn't know about each other. How on Earth did you end up dating the Prince of the Fire Nation?"

Celina chucked. "We definitely need to catch up, I have a lot to tell you."

"Well, maybe after we have some much-needed downtime with our significant others."

The two broke out of their hug to see where their significant others had gone. Zuko was kind enough to give the girls some space and had gone over to talk to Aang about the firebending exercises he'd left him. Sokka meanwhile had joined in on the hug with Hakoda and Katara, happy to have their family back together. Hakoda looked over to Celina, his eyes wishing that she was part of the hug as well. Celina let out a shaky breath and looked away.

"Seriously, you guys didn't find any meat?" Toph asked.

"Sorry to break it to you, Toph, but the whole fishing trip was a cover story," Celina said, taking the opportunity to get away from the awkwardness.

"You knew that they were breaking into a Fire Nation prison?" Aang asked. Celina nodded.

"Wait! You're the one who told us they were on the fishing trip. How did you get that lie past me!"

"Because I technically didn't lie. Sokka told me to tell you guys that they were on a fishing trip and that's exactly what I did."

"...Huh. Smart thinking." Toph gave Celina's arm an approving punch. The older girl winced but just gave the earthbender a small smile while rubbing her arm. Her smile faded however as she caught a ghostly figure from the corner of her eye.

"Bitten?"

"Sorry to interrupt the reunion," the spirit said. "But I really need to talk to you."

The others watched in confusion as Celina walked over and spoke to someone who they couldn't see. All except for Aang and Zuko who stared at the other spirit. Aang in confusion and Zuko with a hint of jealousy.

"Who's this?" Zuko asked.

"This is Bitten. He's a friend from the Spirit World."

Bitten and Zuko looked each other up and down. Zuko tried to analyze how much of a possible rival the spirit was. Bitten meanwhile was simply checking the firebender out. Behind them, the others whispered back and forth to each other, wondering what was going on. Aang kindly tried his best to explain what the three of them were seeing.

"Back to the question at hand."

The spirit's face fell. "Celina… you're father… he's… no one's been able to wake him."

"What?" Celina felt her blood go cold. "What? No. No. Bitten, please tell me my dad's not…"

"He's still breathing but… your mother doesn't know how much longer he has."

Tears started streaming down Celina's face, reflecting the glow that appeared in her eyes. Her hand went to her hair, slightly pulling it in frustration before quickly releasing it. Zuko was quick to move to her, pulling Celina in his arms to try and offer some calm and comfort. There was hardly time to take solace in her lover's arm as her mind continued to spiral in panic, needing to find out more about Bishaman's state.

"How long has he been like this? Why wasn't I told earlier?"

"We tried to find you, but you haven't been to your parent's temple in days. As for how long… he fell into a deep sleep the day of the eclipse."

Celina closed her eyes, frustrated with herself for not checking in with her parents after the invasion. For being pulled away at night because of firebending lessons or the dream connection. Then something in her brain clicked with the timing of everything.

"The day of the eclipse…. Please tell me my father didn't—"

She got her answer as Bitten looked away. Celina turned in Zuko's arms and rested her forehead against his shoulder, giving herself a moment to cry. Bishamon had ignored the warnings and granted the rebellion his power for the invasion. An invasion that had failed and in turn brought her father inches away from death's door.

"What can I do?" Zuko asked, whispering into Celina's hair.

"I don't know. I… I need to go. I need to go see him."

"Then go. We'll be here when you get back."

Celina sniffed out a thank you before pulling out of Zuko's arms. She ran to a secluded spot in the temple to meditate. Bitten watched her go sadly before looking back to the others and nodded goodbye. Zuko and Aang watched as his form vanished in the air, returning to the Spirit World.

"What just happened?" Sokka asked.

o

Somberness suffocated Ai and Bishamon's bedroom. The atmosphere grew thicker with each passing day that Bishamon didn't wake up. Ai had burst into tears when Celina finally arrived, the two collapsing into each other's arms as mournful tears spilled from both their eyes.

"Why?" Celina asked tearfully. "Why did he do it?"

"You know your father. Always wanting to help."

After a long cry, the two took their places and sat at Bishamon's side, watching the unmoving Spirit of War. Ai softly brushed the sweat-soaked hair away from her husband's face. She couldn't help but remember their vows. In sickness, health, and everything in between they would be there for each other. Their love never to dim no matter what hardships they faced. Her heart broke wondering how much longer she'd have with her soulmate before he was forced to pass through The Veil of Souls.

Celina didn't even want to think about it. She'd just gotten her parents, there was no way that she wanted to lose one of them so soon. Though, by the way Bishamon looked she wasn't going to have that choice. His skin had paled to a sickly shade, his lips cracked they were so dry, and discolored bags hung under sunken, closed eyes. So close to death's door. They would need a miracle.

And by some chance, a miracle is what they got.

Both Ai and Celina watched in shock and awe as Bishamon took a deep breath before his eyes fluttered open. They held tiredness and exhaustion but appeared less sunken in than before. Even his skin, though still pale, looked to gain a bit of color. The Spirit of War gave his wife and daughter a tired smile, not done fighting just yet.

There was no talking. The women threw themselves gently onto Bishamon in a hug. Tears flowed from every eye in the room as the family embraced not having to say goodbye.

o

Returning back to the mortal world Celina's body significantly relaxed. Tears of joy that she cried in the Spirit World followed her into the current one as small drops fell onto her crossed legs. True to his word Zuko was waiting for her, a bit concerned over the tears. Something that was quickly quelled. Overjoyed about her father Celina tackled her boyfriend in a hug, causing them both to fall to the ground. Zuko landed on his back with some force but didn't complain, pleased to see the big smile on her face.

"Woah, what's going on?"

"He's awake! My dad's awake! Mom and I couldn't believe it but he's awake!"

"That's great."

His heart swelled at the delighted giggle Celina let out as she nuzzled into him. He sat them both upright and held her close, taking time to indulge in her happiness and warmth. Some goodness after several stressful days. The simple intimate moment was interrupted as Sokka and Suki came charging inside the room.

"Is she back?" Suki asked.

Her question was answered as Celina detached herself from Zuko, making sure to wipe away her tears, as she looked at her brother and Suki.

"How's your dad?' Sokka asked nervously.

"He's awake."

Both two newcomers smiled widely. Sokka even pumped his fist up in victory. "Yes, it worked!"

"What are you talking about? What worked?" Celina asked confused.

"Come on, we've got something to show you," Zuko said and helped Celina up off the ground.

The three of them led Celina off to another room in the temple where they were met by Hakoda, Katara, Aang, and Toph. What drew Celina's attention however was a small, simple altar that was constructed in the center of the room.

"What's this?"

"We wanted to do something to help so we made a shrine," Sokka answered.

"It was Hakoda's idea," Zuko told her, causing Celina to look at her adoptive father in surprise.

"I remember leaving offerings for the Ocean and Moon Spirits back at the Southern Water Tribe when I was a boy. Praying for calm seas and good fishing. I even sent an offering to your father when the men and I first set out to help in the war. And when your sister told me how you two gave offerings to a spirit to heal her I thought we could do the same."

Katara was sure not to meet her sister's gaze when she looked over, instead turning her attention elsewhere. Celina's heart softened. Even while being upset with her Katara was still willing to help.

"So we searched through the temple and collected some offerings," Aang jumped in.

"And from the sounds of it they worked," Toph said.

The young spirit looked over all her friends and family standing in the room. Her heart was deeply touched by what they put together for her father. All from an idea from her adoptive father. Hakoda stepped forward.

"Celina, I know I haven't been the best father. Particularly before I left for the war. I neglected all of my children in my concentration on helping but you received the worst of it. You were made to feel unloved and unwanted. Something I regret with every fiber of my being. I'm sorry for not sticking up for you with the Tribe. I'm sorry for not protecting you. I'm sorry for making you believe I wanted to marry you off. I'm sorry for making you believe I don't love you.

"If you'll allow it. I intend to spend years making it up to you."

Tears welled up at the corner of Celina's eyes. She had been through so much of an emotional rollercoaster in a few hours. The boys returning from Boiling Rock with Hakoda and Suki. Bitten showing up to tell Celina about her father. Going to the temple and watching her father wake up. Coming back to see that they'd built a shrine. And now she was receiving a genuine apology from Hakoda.

She didn't know how much more she could take. So all Celina did was give Hakoda a small nod. Hakoda gave her a large smile but stayed where he stood, knowing well enough not to go in for a hug just yet.

Letting out a sigh Celina blinked away her tears. "Thank you. I think we could all use some rest."

"Great, 'cause I'm beat!" Sokka said.

Several people burst out into laughter as they all gathered to head back to camp. Celina leaned into Zuko's side, his arm sliding snuggly around her as they walked. Both of them ready to spend a night in each other's arms.

Thanks for reading. Be sure to leave me a review and a crazy "So Tell Me About Yourself" answer.

"So Tell Me About Yourself" is an inside joke between me and my friends which started from my one friend's hatred for the typical getting-to-know-you question "So tell me about yourself". She, being so annoyed with the phrase, gave a silly answer that she murdered people in their sleep. When she brought it back to me and my other friend we both gave a silly answer. That is where the idea for my account name came from.