TLF - The Last Firebender

by Carrotine Clara

When all hope is lost, Aang is ripped from a dystopian world, only to find himself in a sick, distorted reality, forced to fight his friends alongside his foe. But can he really trust them? Trust people that destroyed his life? Trust those that don't even exist in his world? Against his own instincts, he may need to put his trust in one person above all: Azula, the last firebender.

6. Episode 6: City of Secrets

Fire. Earth. Water. Air. Long ago, the four nations lived together in harmony. Then, everything changed when the Water Tribes attacked...

Only the Avatar, master of all four elements, could stop them, but when the world needed him most, he vanished.

A hundred years passed and my brother and I discovered the new Avatar, an airbender named Aang. And although his bending skills are great, he is haunted by the memories of his world...

But I believe Aang can save this one.

---

Avatar: The Last Firebender

Based on Distorted Reality by Ogro

Written by Carrotine Clara

---

Book 1: Fire

Episode 6

City of Secrets

---

Act I. – Scrolling for adventure

---

AZULA: The twitching is back.

As Appa soars over rocky, volcanic fields, Azula watches the Avatar closely and with great concern. Her brother is steering the beast, occasionally daring to peak back at the sleeping airbender. Sabachi is nudging Aang, which has no effect on the boy's behavior.

TY LEE: Has this happened before?

AZULA: Back when we first met him, he did it all the time. It got really bad when we reached the Wester Air Temple.

ZUKO: He hasn't had it since.

AZULA: Maybe it's because of his duel with that Poko kid.

TY LEE: Or...

Ty Lee feels his aura by gently touching his shoulder. She shivers in discomfort.

AZULA: What are you doing?

TY LEE: I'm feeling his aura.

She takes her hand off, Azula expressing jealousy in her voice, awkwardly trying to hide it.

AZULA: You guys do that often? Just... touching... each other?

TY LEE: He's in terrible pain. His mind is being tortured.

Azula scoffs dismissively.

AZULA: How dramatic.

ZUKO: Maybe he's remembering the night that his people... you know.

AZULA: Died?

Zuko drops silent at the word.

TY LEE: Why did you say that? It makes him uncomfortable.

Azula shrugs like a real princess.

AZULA: How did you figure? His aura?

Ty Lee frowns. While her puffy cheeks are far from intimidating, the message gets across.

TY LEE: No, I looked at him.

She directs her attention back towards Aang, who displays an especially harsh spasm.

AZULA: Alright, that's it, we're not going to Changchun with a rattlesnake-Avatar. Can we land here somewhere?

As she says it, Ty Lee tries feeling more of Aang's aura, eventually touching his side - the boy snaps his eyes open with a gasp, scaring everyone at once - Azula looses her cool, Ty Lee flinches like a cat, Sabachi erects her tail like an antenna, and Zuko pulls the reins at random, creating turbulence which Appa has to correct himself. The beast grumbles angrily.

AZULA: Are you alright, Aang? Talk to me.

The Avatar looks at Azula with big eyes, terrified of the person who just spoke to her.

AANG: What?

Ty Lee touches his cheek and closes her eyes.

TY LEE: It's alright...

After feeling more of his aura, Aang finally snaps out of it, hissing in pain while grabbing his head. The black hair is now close to covering his arrow.

AANG: Ow! My head is spinning.

TY LEE: I think you just woke up from a nightmare. I could feel you're in pain.

Azula glares at her for being able to feel his emotional state by something as simple as a touch. The boy seems nervous from the comment.

AANG: Well, uh... I hope you didn't see anything...

He lies back down, still grunting from his headache. The battle against Poko was not the most straining thing he had ever done. However, it seems that the physical exhaustion and small wounds he carried with him triggered something inside. While asleep he saw the image of the Fire Lord over and over again. Aang can barely sit upright. Azula puts her arm around him, allowing Aang to rest on her shoulder while cringing his teeth. He remembers the soft, loving touch of Katara, but any thought more critical was buried under the migraine.

AZULA: Zuko! Get us down, now!

ZUKO: I'll try to find a...

He looks down, seeing small geysers spewing ash and smoke.

ZUKO: ...uh, something big enough for Appa.

Appa grunts quietly.

---

Zuko did eventually find a small hillock, with a tiny tree growing on it. Zuko is tending to the beast while Aang tries to rest inside the saddle, Azula having placed a blanket upon him. That helped a bit, but for now everyone but the Avatar stands next to Appa, gazing with questions over the volcanic fields.

AZULA: This all looks dead. I can't believe there's supposed to be a big city after this.

ZUKO: It's true though. Changchun is the biggest refugee enclave. The Water Tribe likes to deport Earth Kingdom citizens to the colonies.

AZULA: Where all the "fire people" are gone. So free real estate I guess...

Ty Lee frowns at the news, but her mind was bogged down before that. She decides to come forward, indicating it with a frown. Zuko picks up.

ZUKO: What's going on?

TY LEE: Guys... I think there is something wrong with Aang.

Azula raises her eyebrows, her right hand resting on her left inner elbow.

AZULA: Uh... yeah. He's the Avatar. Duh.

TY LEE: No, I mean...

ZUKO: I know what you mean.

Azula seems insulted.

AZULA: Don't betray me so quickly.

ZUKO: Azula, think about it.

A part of her refuses to participate. She has developed a strong connection with Aang. She sees him as a friend, more than that. Family? She brushes off the chaos of her emotions and allows herself to participate.

AZULA: Alright. Enlighten me.

Zuko and Ty Lee share a quick look.

TY LEE: Remember when we talked about the Winter Solstice?

AZULA: Yeah, Aang asked about it. You said he was nervous.

Ty Lee wiggles her fists a bit, frustrated by Azula's resistance.

TY LEE: Yes, but I didn't say nervous. I said he was afraid. Like something was going to happend.

Zuko's face melts at the realization.

ZUKO: Azula?

She nods reluctantly.

AZULA: What?

ZUKO: Remember when we first met Aang?

Azula forces herself to not elaborate.

TY LEE: What happened?

The firebender sighs, kicking the ground.

AZULA: Nothing. He got like scared or something.

ZUKO: He attacked her.

Ty Lee looks shocked.

TY LEE: What? Why? How did you even find him?

AZULA: This is just so dishonest...

Zuko sighs. Even Ty Lee displays rejection.

AZULA: We're talking, behind his back, while he's coma-napping on his bison - who is also present.

Appa grunts at her, showing his molars.

AZULA (responding to Appa): Exactly.

ZUKO: But Azula-

AZULA: No - Aang! He is our friend, the Avatar, and we're just out here talking about him like he's a criminal. Do you not trust him?

The two conspirators exchange looks of guilt.

ZUKO: Yes, obviously-

AZULA: So why are we even having this conversation, huh?

Ty Lee steps in.

TY LEE: Of course we trust Aang. But...

AZULA: But?

TY LEE: Do you not... feel like anything is off? That he is hiding something?

She shrugs in very slow and wavy manner.

AZULA: No, I don't.

Ty Lee's brow shoots up like a graph.

TY LEE: That's a lie.

Azula scoffs, hiding her unnerve. How did she even...

AZULA: No, it's not. How would you even tell?

Zuko looks at Ty Lee, nodding his head, clearly impressed by a skill he never possessed himself.

TY LEE: When people lie, their aura changes.

Azula cackles heinously, turning her back at the acrobat, who sincerely tries to convince her.

TY LEE: I'm serious, it's really easy to read, and - and Aang does it a lot!

ZUKO: Do I do that?

TY LEE: What?

Azula wiggles her torso mockingly.

AZULA: "Aura"...

She turns back around.

AZULA: I guess it's settled then! No more maps, no more adventures...

Ty Lee gives up with a sigh. Zuko just stands there and does nothing.

AZULA: Maybe we don't even need to go to the Golden City to find a firebending master - Ty Lee's aura can just detect one - and an earthbending master as well!

The two climb back on top of Appa, even though Azula is clearly not finished.

AZULA: Hey! Maybe your aura can even find us the one waterbender in the world, who's not trying to kill us!

---

The sea has calmed since their last trip to Musho Ichi. After escaping the mine, Sokka had managed to track the Avatar's bison, and where it was heading. The prince was convinced that he was travelling along the southern coast of the crescent and, after studying a number of maps he had brought with him, he had deducted that the Avatar is heading to Changchun.

Kenora stabilizes the main sail with cringed teeth. Ever since she had gone to travel with Sokka her muscle strength had increased, and she appreciates that. While waterbending doesn't require physical strength, she did enjoy the difference during training. Especially when Sokka was her sparring partner.

SOKKA: Alright...

Kenora ties a knot, joining the prince in his effort to intensely stare at a map. The image of a harbor closing in lingers in front of them.

SOKKA: We should restock on food supplies, I'm out of jerky.

Kenora raises her brow.

KENORA: Already? We restocked two days ago.

Sokka puts down the map and turns his face away, scratching his neck.

SOKKA: Yeah, weird.

Kenora chases after him to the helm.

KENORA: Listen, I've been going through our finances, and-

SOKKA: We're not looking too great?

She is quite frankly impressed by his open admission of flaw.

KENORA: Y... yes. If we intend to chase the Avatar-

SOKKA: Which we do.

Kenora nods.

KENORA: Which we do, then we're going to have to think about other options...

He frowns at her, grabbing the steering wheel with two hands.

SOKKA: What do you mean?

She silently steps aside, revealing the burlap sack of Sokka's stuff. The prince shudders in fear, stepping away from the helm and running at it. As Kenora has to take the wheel, the prince empties the sack with tears, pulling out his belongings with comical sadness.

SOKKA: No! We can't - why should I get rid of this stuff?!

He looks at her like a spiteful child.

SOKKA: Why don't we sell your stuff instead?!

KENORA: I don't have stuff.

Sokka goes full-on toddler.

SOKKA: Well maybe we should sell you!

He emits a loud sigh as he mourns his worldly possessions. Kenora manages to get a straight course and walks up to Sokka.

KENORA: Look, it's all for a good cause. Catching the Avatar will get you all the riches you need - you said it yourself! Plus, half the stuff in there is not even usefull.

SOKKA: That's not true!

He sticks his arm into the sack, revealing a green Earth Kingdom bag, presenting it heroically to Kenora.

SOKKA: How is this not useful?!

She frowns in anger and confusion.

KENORA: It's just a bag.

SOKKA: Yes, but it fits perfectly with my outfit.

Kenora scoffs at his "womanly" comment.

KENORA: You wear blue.

She looks down, spotting a glass bottle, which she picks up and reads.

KENORA: "Boomerang polish"? You don't even have the boomerang anymore.

He takes the polish away in a swift motion, hugging his two items like a cowering child.

SOKKA: No need to rub salt into that wound!

She rolls her eyes over, a sudden rumble forcing her to get back to the steering wheel.

KENORA: Get those things back in the bag!

SOKKA: No!

KENORA: Yes! Or I'm taking over the Matariki!

SOKKA: You can't make me!

KENORA: I'm doing it right now!

He can no longer snap back at her. Utterly defeated, he refills the bag while Kenora gets the boat back on a stable course. She finally notices the giant stone statue decorating the harbor. It displays a man with a stern face and a chin beard, long hair hidden under a crown-like wolf helmet. Kenora misses his face as the catamaran brushes by.

SOKKA: Oh hey, it's dad.

Kenora quickly shifts back to looking at Sokka.

KENORA: Really?

She looks back the the statute, only being able to see the impressive coat covering its back.

SOKKA: Yeah, they named this port after him. He took it in a battle against the Fire Nation or something.

She looks back at the prince, who ties the sack with a tired expression.

KENORA: "Or something"?

He shrugs.

SOKKA: I'm not his biographer.

Sokka stabilizes the sails, lowering the ship's speed and helping Kenora with the process of marine parking.

KENORA: Must be pretty tough.

SOKKA: What is?

KENORA: You know. Living with a dad that has statues. A lot to live up to.

He hides his expression from her, shaking the bad feelings off, literally.

SOKKA: Let's not talk about dad.

They reach the ship jetty with a gentle thud. Sokka goes ahead and ties the boat to a pole in silence. Kenora wonders if she hit a soft spot, stepping away from the helm and carrying the bag towards him, where he helps lifting it up the jetty.

SOKKA: What about your dad?

She climbs up and scoffs.

KENORA: Let's not talk about that...

---

AZULA: Aang, wake up.

She nudges the Avatar in the shoulder, strategically avoiding his torso region. He opens is eyelids slowly, still groaning at the pain.

TY LEE: Are you feeling better?

He nods.

AANG: A bit.

AZULA: We were really worried about you, you know.

She glares at the nervous passengers sitting in the front and at the helm of the bison.

AZULA: But we trusted you we're going to get better.

Aang semi-ignores the chatter and simply looks down Appa's side. Under him, rocky fields with a tiny road.

AZULA: You might want to look ahead.

He dizzily follows her request, quickly going back to full-on awake, as he spots the walls of a large city on top a hill.

ZUKO: Yip-yip a big higher, big guy.

Appa groans in an aggravated-sounding manner.

AZULA: Don't patronize him.

As the bison yip-yips higher, it soars across the massive city that is Changchun.

At first, an aura of awe overcomes him and everyone else on board. The massive city is protected by a rectangle-shaped wall, on top of a cliff-like plateau, towering above the coast, where the ocean is filled with spike-shaped rock formations. After his first impression, Aang glares at the city with suspicion. The rock-formation, spikes, and city proper was obviously made by someone, not nature. He looks at it from above and realizes it's separated by inner walls into three different sectors. One that looks crowded and slum-like, a second one appearing a bit fancier, and a small, elegant ring, with a few expensive houses and a royal bagoda in the middle.

AANG: Is this an Earth Kingdom city?

ZUKO: Correct. Many cities like these exist in the Fire Nation.

AZULA: Apparently, we're not the only ones suffering from deportation and enslavement. I guess some of our earthly neighbors decided to "rent" our land.

Aang looks down at the poorest sector, spotting catastrophic infrastructure and people living in filth.

AANG: These are refugees. They have nowhere else to go.

Azula pouts but seems distressed at Aang's comment.

TY LEE: Let's hope there's not another slave mine here...

ZUKO: Alright Appa, let's land on one of these walls.

Aang snaps and rushes towards Zuko.

AANG No! Appa, turn back!

The bison groans and follows his command, as Aang literally takes the reins away from Zuko, forcing him back into the saddle.

TY LEE: What? Why?

ZUKO: Why would we turn back now?

AZULA: I guess that was a short trip to Changchun...

AANG: Something tells me we can't trust this city. I'm going to land Appa outside and go in alone.

This is when Azula protests.

AZULA: Um, what?

AANG: I don't want to put you in danger in case...

He wonders who might rule this Ba Sing Se copycat.

Zuko and Ty Lee share a look.

ZUKO: Can you tell us... why you feel this way?

Aang, trying to brush away the thoughts building up in his head, still does not intend to be too mysterious to his new friends.

AANG: I just... have a feeling like something might happen.

Ty Lee and Zuko share a second look, this time appearing convinced. As they share this expression with Azula, she rolls over her eyes in disbelief.

AZULA: Fine, park our aircraft outside if you want.

She crawls forward towards Aang, the acrobat and her brother stepping aside.

AZULA: But I want to come with you.

He lands the bison a short distance away from what appears to be a main gate. Sabachi climbs on to Aang's shoulder.

AZULA: And the lemur wants to be in on it too.

Aang grabs Sabachi, handing her over to Azula and jumping off the bison.

AANG: No, I think it's safer without you.

Azula is infuriated by this, jumping after him with a pouty face.

AZULA: I don't want to play this card, but pretty much every time we've separated something happened.

He turns towards her with guilt as he pets Appa. She shows him her finger scars.

AZULA: I know it's dangerous - we all do. That's why we agreed to help you.

She crosses her arms.

AZULA: But I'm starting to think you don't want our help.

He sighs, buried in thought of what to do next. He had a suspicion of who or what he might encounter, and clearly, Azula wasn't having it. Ty Lee steps in, floating down next to Azula.

TY LEE: Me and Zuko can stay here and watch over Appa. You guys can go to the city. How does that sound?

Sabachi lands on Aang's head. Ty Lee shares a warm smile.

TY LEE: And Sabachi is going to watch over you.

She manages to conjure a smirk on to Aang's face as well, causing Azula to frown in envy.

AANG: Alright. Azula and I will go look for someone with a map, or just any information.

He takes off Sabachi, petting her on his arm.

AANG: If we're not back by noon tomorrow-

As Azula cuts him off, she decides to walk ahead.

AZULA: Yeah, yeah, they'll come pick us up. Now come on, Aang!

Aang nods at Ty Lee, who seems eerily satisfied.

AANG: Bye, you guys!

ZUKO: Bye Aang!

TY LEE: Bye Aang!

AZULA: Bye!

Azula waves her hand without looking back.

---

GUARD: Who are you?

The earthbending guard and his colleague look at Aang and Azula with suspicious eyes.

AANG: We-

AZULA: We're tired travelers in case you haven't noticed, and we'd really appreciate it if you didn't waste our time and just let us in.

The guard is not having it, stomping his foot on the ground, creating a loud thud in a successful intimidation attempt.

AANG: Please forgive my... sister here.

Azula comes off as insulted by the term sister for some reason.

AANG: Our camp is a few miles away from here. We were hoping to get some supplies for our family.

The guards exchange looks of suspicion.

GUARD: What about his blue arrow? What does that mean?

Aang starts getting nervous.

AZULA: It's a genetic thing. Some rare skin condition.

She inspects her nails tauntingly. The guard seems to struggle with Azula again.

GUARD: Okay. Where did you say your camp was?

AANG: A few miles away.

He points in the direction they came from.

GUARD: The volcanic fields?

Aang notices his blunder and is saved again by Azula.

AZULA: We're firebenders, so it's no big deal. And since our nations share a common enemy, you should perhaps reconsider whether or not we're a threat.

The guard looks back one last time at his colleague, who simply shrugs.

GUARD: Alright. How long are you staying?

AZULA: A day.

The other guard nods. In an impressive demonstration of raw strength, the two men open the walls in a door-like fashion, exposing the lower sector, with people running in a crowd.

GUARD: Welcome to Changchun.

The kids enter, with Azula somewhat impressed by the size of the wall and the skill of the benders. After noticing that Aang seems little impressed by it, she stops with her gazing. The door shuts again, not before Sabachi can fly through it, landing on Azula. With the loud thud the wall is closed again.

GUARD: Did you see that thing?

COLLEAGUE: Nope.

The guard sweats nervously.

GUARD: Right...

---

Azula is almost overwhelmed by the information her brain receives. The vibrant colors and people rushing the tight streets create background noise louder than at the Spirit Festival, which the raven-haired girl previously considered the largest place she had ever been too. The enormous shadow cast over a third of the city by its impressive walls astounds her deeply. None of this sentiment is shared by Aang. And Azula starts wondering.

AZULA: So... what's the plan?

Aang's body language does not give an answer. The boy's eyes wander around as if trying to track something in particular. Or someone.

AANG: Don't know.

Azula starts getting frustrated.

AZULA: Well then, I guess in that case I'll go look for a new headpiece.

Aang snaps as she walks over to a vendor. Only now does he realize she had been carrying her hair open like this for a while now. He shakes his head with a grunt.

AANG (to himself): What's going on?

Sabachi nibbles on his ear, something Aang enjoyed in the past, but not anymore. He waves the lemur away, causing it to fly over to Azula, who walks away from a vending stand with a big smile and a new headpiece, with which she bounds together her hair to an elegant top knot, with her bangs hanging from each side. She sighs.

AZULA: What do you think?

He looks upon the red headpiece with a tiny, blue flame. Memories of the Fire Lord resurface, and he can't choke up a compliment. She pouts in anger.

AZULA: No need to be too nice, Aang...

She sighs in defeat.

AZULA: Okay, what is going on?

He genuinely can't give her an answer, his mind clouded in something he doesn't understand.

AANG: I don't know. I've been getting more stressed out lately. My mind feels like it's boiling.

She takes the response with a grain of salt.

AZULA: Happens to the best of us, I guess. We have been busy recently. Maybe the Fire Nation heat is getting to your Avatar head-

He rushes her, closing off her mouth with his palm, causing an angered, physical reaction from her, as she pushes him away.

AZULA: Hey! What's the matter with you?!

He shushes her.

AZULA: Don't shush me-

AANG (whispering): Don't mention I'm the Avatar.

She frowns in suspicion.

AZULA: Why? We're in an Earth Kingdom city in the Fire Nation. Literally everyone here should be glad to have you.

He looks around. Only a few pedestrians pay attention. The words of Ty Lee and her brother start creeping into her mind.

AZULA: Are you... expecting someone?

AANG: No. Why?

She shrugs mockingly.

AZULA: You tell me. You've been acting all weird since we got here.

He grabs his head as another migraine wave hits. Azula tries to comfort him but is losing her patience.

AZULA: Let's just find someone who can tell us where-

AANG: Don't say it!

She sighs.

AZULA: Well, how are we ever going to find the Golden City if I can't even say the word?

He shushes her again, harder. In response she sighs louder, walking to another clothing vendor, selling different kinds of headdresses. Aang talks to himself while she is away.

AANG: What's going on? This is just as bad as when I saw Sokka-

AZULA: What about Sokka?

He flinches, not expecting her behind him already.

AANG: Nothing. What about him?

AZULA: Is he following us?

AANG: No, I was just... rambling.

She stems her arm against her hip.

AZULA: "Rambling"?

He sighs back at her in frustration, walking away from the discussion quite literally.

AZULA: Great. The conversation was boring me anyways...

She notices the quick pace at which he runs away.

AZULA: Hey! Wait!

---

Sokka's head hangs low as he leaves the harbor pawn shop. While his hand is holding a brand-new sack filled to the brim with supplies, it just doesn't quite quench his sadness.

SOKKA: I loved that bag.

Kenora rolls her eyes, not really being able to think of anything to calm him. If she's honest, she isn't intending to calm his feeble emotions. She clears her throat.

KENORA: Well, supplies are filled to the brim. I'll try to look for a scroll store or something. Maybe we can find some useful maps or training material.

She looks around the quaint harbor town, reminding her of a similar town she visited often as a kid. Most of those memories have been repressed to their fullest extend though. She finally finds a sign above a door whose calligraphy reads "Ridge Scrolls - our prices are the opposite of rich!". She sighs and turns back towards Sokka, who has already wandered off and back, holding a little paper bowl with some sort of meat stew in his hands, slurping it like a child.

KENORA: What's that?

He pouts at her with a full mouth.

SOKKA (with a full mouth): I was hungry. And I'm sad...

She slaps her forehead, quickly taking away the little purse of money from his belt.

KENORA: I'll be taking that.

SOKKA (with a full mouth): Hey-

He almost chokes on his food.

KENORA: Bring the supplies back to the ship, I'll be back in a minute.

Sokka grunts at her with a full mouth. She stops and raises her lean shoulders in an angry posture. Without turning around she responds.

KENORA: Bring the supplies back to the ship, please.

He nods reluctantly, following her instructions. She grunts in anger.

KENORA: The things I'll do to be a captain...

---

The path to the scroll shop leads Kenora up a curvy little stone road, almost like a giant stair, where a slope is met with a flat part, after that another slope and so on. A little bell chimes above her head as she opens the store door. Her distracted head eyeing the mechanism, she fails to notice the large, bearded store owner, who's arms go from resting on his gut, to greeting her with an open smile.

RIDGE: Hello and welcome to Ridge Scrolls!

She flinches at his show-like introduction.

RIDGE: Where our prices are the opposite of rich!

She looks at the overly joyous half-bald man with befuddlement.

KENORA: Shouldn't you say, "Where our prices are the opposite of expensive"?

He shakes his head with a smile.

RIDGE: That sounds dumb. Now, how can I help you, young...

He eyes her with panic in his eyes.

RIDGE: ...costumer?

Kenora rolls over her eyes in reponse. She had become sloppy on her "boy-disguise" recently. Her hair has been in desperate need of a trimming for a while, but the waterbender was simply too lazy to do it thus far. Plus, the baggy, monotone outfit had begun to get on her nerves.

KENORA: Do you have any information on the sea road to Changchun?

He hisses dramatically.

RIDGE: I do, but I wouldn't recommend it any day of the week, unless you want your ship to join Agni's Shipyard!

She raises an eyebrow. He brings forth a leather-bound booklet, skimming through the pages, until he reaches a nihonga painting of wooden ships, clashing into waves and spikes in the water, crashing and splintering into pieces.

RIDGE: Most small ships get decimated by the weird rock-formations. The ironclads mostly get stuck.

He closes the book with one motion.

RIDGE: If you want to buy it, it'll be eight silver pieces, but I wouldn't want my worst enemy to head to Changchun that way.

She ponders what her strategy should be.

KENORA: If you went around it?

Ridge laughs in a very high-pitched tone.

RIDGE: Yes, you could just go around and drive on land.

She is insulted by his sarcasm.

RIDGE: Look, the... the city is surrounded by spikes in the water and by a volcanic field on land. Plus, there's the gigantic walls. The only thing harder to breach is the Golden City itself.

Kenora raises an eyebrow.

KENORA: Golden City?

RIDGE: You never heard of the Golden City?

She shakes her head and Ridge sighs.

RIDGE: Well, no one has, really. It's apparently some kind of firebender hideout for all those refugees fleeing the archipelagos. Makes sense that they don't want us to know...

Kenora wonders for a second if that's where the Avatar is heading.

RIDGE: So, uh... you just want to talk or are you here to buy some stuff?

KENORA: Yes, um, I'm looking for some scrolls on fighting styles. Different kinds.

Ridge stares at her with his sweaty, focused eyes. Almost like someone without glasses trying to read the newspapers.

RIDGE: What?

KENORA: Like martial arts?

RIDGE: Oh! You mean fighting scrolls!

He opens a little door on his counter, stepping forward.

KENORA (mumbling): Yeah, that's... what I meant...

RIDGE: Follow me!

He announces this with his finger raised to the ceiling, bewildering Kenora once again. What follows is an excruciatingly long walk up the creaky, spiral staircase, where Ridge announces every new step with a painful grunt of pain, grabbing his back and whining about his aches. The waterbender follows him reluctantly, wondering if she should just leave now, but deciding against it, as the man had already crossed the halfway point. They finally reach the top, revealing a dingy, moldy and stuffed room, filled with long shelves of scrolls and books, reaching the ceiling. Although the ceiling isn't that high to begin with.

RIDGE: Alright.

He points at a spot in the back in a circular motion.

RIDGE: I- I- I wouldn't go there if I were you. We're doing renovations up here since the air is so moist, it's possible the floor might crack.

As he walks over to a shelf the floor beneath him creaks and howls like crazy. Kenora focuses on the water scrolls instead.

RIDGE: Alright...

He grabs a book, waving it around with his wrists.

RIDGE: Here's a basic summary of some hand-to-hand combat stuff.

He hands her the book pretty bluntly.

RIDGE: Here's a quick guide for club fighting.

He hands it to her as well.

RIDGE: And here the encyclopedia of boomerangs.

KENORA: I don't need that one.

He shrugs and puts it back, walking over to a different section.

RIDGE: Here's all the waterbending crap. It's not sorted, but you'll figure it out.

Kenora is happy to be left alone, putting the book and scroll on a table in the middle of the room.

KENORA: How much is it?

RIDGE: You're looking at a solid 30 silver pieces there! I'll make it 25 if you take one of these bending scrolls here with you. I got plenty of those.

He pats the stack. As he does, the bell chime sounds again, conjuring a smile on to Ridge's face.

RIDGE: Look at that, more customers.

He clears his throat, howling downstairs.

RIDGE: I'm coming!

As Ridge walks down the stairs with painful grunts, Kenora is free to go through the stack of waterbending knowledge. She couldn't afford one of each, and even if she did she had made the decision to focus their money on important things first. She glides her finger over the side, when one of them catches her attention. It is a large one with green buttons. Downstairs heavy boots tremble on the wood.

RIDGE: I'm almost there! AHHHH...

Kenora reads the title out loud.

KENORA: "Aquatic Capoeira?"

She decides to open the scroll and look at the descriptions. The scroll is similar in structure to the one she already possesses. A little manlet is drawn to give visual instructions on how to perform the poses and forms, the difference in this one is, for starters, the drawings being beautifully illustrated and with helpful calligraphy explaining the forms in more detail. Secondly, the forms themselves. Rather than the usual energy and balance based waterbending, this new technique seems to be a lot more inspired by firebending, with its raw aggression and usage of agility. Many of the forms involve kicks, cartwheels that end in air kicks, strong and powerful motions, that clash water forth with impressive skill. A fat grin shoots across her face as she sees this. In her last (and first) fight against the Avatar, Kenora felt slightly outmatched by the speed and agility of the boy, but with this new fighting style she would be unstoppable. She would catch the Avatar, the girl, and then the title of captain. She bites her lower lip in excitement as Ridge reaches the ground floor, greeting the boots with that fake-sounding voice that echoes all the way up to her.

RIDGE: Hello and welcome to Ridge Scrolls, where our prices are the opposite of rich! Looking for anything in particular?

PUWATI: No thank you, I'm just browsing.

The raspy voice freezes Kenora's blood from top to bottom.

---

AZULA: What?

In the crowd of people Azula can barely understand the chattering lemur.

AZULA: No, we didn't invite you, you were right next to us.

The lemur screeches back at her, sounding like a primate.

AZULA: We'll, if you could hear everything we said, I don't see a reason why you need an extra invitation.

Sabachi strokes her ears, again, chattering at her.

AZULA: Yeah, yeah, my feelings get hurt all the time...

The Avatar stands far enough away from her to be out of his earshot. Although, and Azula is strongly convinced of this, even if Aang had been standing right next to her, he still wouldn't have heard a word.

She sighs and crosses her arms, with Sabachi cutely trying to imitate her.

AZULA: But I think they were right.

Aang still looks around dazed and confused. This city had reminds him way too much of Ba Sing Se to simply ignore his obvious suspicion. They had to be here. And if that were the case, their-

A high-pitched blowing noise grabs his attention. At the same time, Sabachi shuts her ears, painfully attempting to avoid the noise. A flute vendor is presenting his items not so far away from Aang.

FLUTE VENDOR: Animal flutes! Animal flutes! Get your animal flutes here, folks! We got chicken-pig, sheep-pig, hippo-cow, uh... other things...

Aang jolts towards the stand.

AANG: Do you have a bison-shaped flute?

The man stares at Aang with a frowned expression.

FLUTE VENDOR: Uh... maybe. Let me go and have a look.

He disappears behind his tent. Azula stomps towards Aang. The temporary excitement has supposedly cured his headache, at least according to Azula.

AZULA: You seem better.

Sabachi chatters.

AZULA (to Sabachi): I know.

AANG: Who are you talking to?

AZULA: Who are you talking to? You've been a ghost all day! You're looking around you like a wild animal is going to jump at you!

Aang tries to ignore her.

AANG: Everything is fine, I just-

AZULA: Everything is not fine! We came here to look for the Golden City and now you're buying... what exactly?

FLUTE VENDOR: Here we go.

The vendor brings forth the exact same flute he had in his world, the one that got Appa to appear several times and save their skin. He is happy to fix one of his mistakes, to improve and do things quicker and better than before. He could save his friends. Unfortunately for him, one of his friends is currently losing it, as he pays the vendor.

FLUTE VENDOR: Thanks. Animal flutes! Animal flutes...

Aang walks away from the conversation again, putting the flute in his pocket. Azula follows him desperately.

AZULA: Okay, that's enough!

She finally gets his attention. And of many people surrounding them.

AZULA: You're going to tell me what's going on, or I'm leaving!

Her arms stem firmly into her hips, with the lemur on her shoulder. Aang grabs his head again in pain.

AANG: Azula, let's talk about it later. Not with all these people-

AZULA: No, not later - now.

He glares at her, seeing the Fire Lord again, blue flames engulfing the people and buildings around her. He sighs, clenching his eyes again.

AANG: I told you already, I don't know how to explain it all!

AZULA: Then figure it out!

She lets out a gasp of air, letting Aang know how seriously hurt she feels about it.

AZULA: Seriously, after everything we've been through, you're not going to give me an answer?

Aang can feel the guilt building up again. The dreadful feeling that he should have told his new friends the truth a long time ago. Should he come forth now?

AANG: No, I-

He grunts again.

AANG: I...

The flickering on Aang's tattoos show again, only this time very lightly. Azula doesn't know how to react now. She is at her limit, but one more word and Aang could go back into his weird state again. Or worse. Her decision making is made easy by the arrival of cloaked figures in dark robes and conical hats. Aang comes back to his senses, realizing his suspicion was right.

DAI LI AGENT: What are you two doing?

The other agent prepares to take on Aang, who readies himself. He knew this would happen, he somehow did. Azula on the other hand seems in no way concerned whatsoever.

AZULA: We're just talking. What are you-

Before her sassy answer is finished, her hands get entrapped by glove-like rock attacks, binding her wrists together tightly. Sabachi avoids the attack, dodging and flying away swiftly.

AZULA: Hey! What is going on?!

The passengers seem concerned at the sight of Dai Li, quickly fleeing the scene.

DAI LI AGENT: You are arrested for suspicious behavior!

AZULA: Suspicious behavior?!

Aang manages to dodge one glove, but is immediately taken prisoner by a second attack, capturing both his wrists and ankles.

AZULA: Get away from him! That's the Avatar!

Aang sighs, in pain, in disappointment at himself, and at Azula. The Dai Li Agents exchange looks.

DAI LI AGENT: The Avatar?

---

Act II. - Cards on the table

---

Vice-Chief Puwati's boots loudly thud across the wooden floor, passing by consumer shelves smaller than the man. Ridge has retrieved back behind his counter, where he writes down something on paper with cheap calligraphy ink.

PUWATI: You don't happen to have anything on the Golden City, do you?

Kenora quietly packs up the three things she intends to buy, being able to hear the conversation down below. Sweat runs down her temples.

RIDGE: Uh... no, sir. I don't really know anyone in the business that has that kind of stuff.

Puwati walks up to the counter.

PUWATI: There's stores run by resistance groups and revolutionaries, who have that sort of material.

He admires the book on the Changchun Sea routes Ridge showed to Kenora earlier.

RIDGE: Um... wouldn't know about anything like that sir. But it's weird that you ask...

Kenora almost gasps in shock. Puwati closes the book.

PUWATI: Why?

RIDGE: Well, I had a conversation earlier about it with another customer, who wanted to know something about Changchun.

Kenora has to cover her mouth with her hand. She slowly starts stepping away from the stairs, the book and scrolls pressed against her torso. Ridge scratches his beard.

RIDGE: Or was it a girl? I couldn't really tell to be honest.

Puwati's brow shoots up.

PUWATI: Did she have a lisp?

Kenora stops. Every muscle in her body cramps at once.

RIDGE: Now that you're saying it, yeah, she did.

He grabs the harpoon leaning against the wall next to the door.

PUWATI: Where did she go?

RIDGE: Oh, she didn't go anywhere, she's still upstairs.

Puwati looks at the spiral staircase as Ridge opens the little counter door.

RIDGE: Let me show you upstairs-

PUWATI: That won't be necessary.

The thick boots thud across the floor, closing in on the spiral staircase, and on Kenora's location. In complete panic, she backs off further away from the stairs, stepping on to the brittled floor in the back Ridge warned her about earlier. As Puwati's harpoon peaks into the attic, Kenora, with a screech, breaks through the floor, managing to land on her feet somehow.

RIDGE: Hey! I warned you about that!

KENORA: Sorry!

As the large man sees her from the staircase, his eyes widen, and he charges her. She bends the ink from Ridge's calligraphy to blind Puwati temporarily, causing him to stop.

KENORA: Here! 25 silver pieces!

She quickly wants to hand over the money, shaking with the intention of running away immediately.

RIDGE: 25? What about my roof?

Puwati wipes off the ink, his now red eyes glaring at her with fury. She throws the one gold piece she had in her purse and the 25 pieces at Ridge, then rushes outside.

RIDGE: Why, thank you!

Puwati chases after her, pushing Ridge to the side and over his counter.

RIDGE: OW! MY BACK!

---

She rushes down the slopes in hurry, her heart thumping like drums. By the time she reaches the second one, Puwati has almost caught up to her. Despite his large size and heavy appearance, the man's movements are that of a fast and skilled warrior. Kenora looks left and right, seeing several vendors - a small stand selling perfumes, and a slightly larger one with life fish.

PUWATI: Stop!

Kenora flinches but does not comply. After closing in on her, Puwati aims for her left leg with the hook-shaped end of his harpoon, missing it due to Kenora's improved reflexes. She uses the energy and tries improvising something she saw in the scrolls - doing a spin-jump and bending perfume from the vendor against his face. He dodges.

PERFUME VENDOR: Hey!

She panics, bending a stream of fish-water upwards, and then bending it with a kick against Puwati. This time she hits, slowing him down immensely, in part because seagull pigeons swarm around him, trying to pick up little fish pieces. Kenora has a head start, which she develops further by bending a barrel of rainwater from a street alley, forming a coat of ice on the road. An older woman waggles her fist at her from inside a house.

WOMAN: That's my bathing water, you brat!

Kenora tries to ignore her and slides down the slope, increasing her speed and being able to shake off Puwati for a moment.

---

Down at the docks Sokka munches on some jerky, pretending to drive the Matariki by grabbing on to the steering wheel.

KENORA: SOKKA!

He notices his shouting crewmate changing from an ice slope into a sprint towards him. He approaches her as she unties the knot holding them to the pier.

KENORA: We need to go - now!

She throws the scrolls and book on board, earning her a confused prince.

SOKKA (with a full mouth): What's the hurry? Someone chasing you?

The harpoon penetrates the ground next to her with full force, causing Kenora shriek for a second. Sokka looks up the slope, where Puwati, now with a small number of troops, is running towards them. His jaw and jerky drops.

SOKKA: Let's go!

He helps her with the rope, getting on board, and kicking the wall, as to get the ship to depart quicker. Puwati is almost back at his harpoon. Glaring at the Matariki with a burning anger.

SOKKA: Um... Poko?

Kenora sees the impending danger, utilizing one last move from her older bending scroll - creating a large wave, one that blocks off their attackers, and creates enough momentum for the the catamaran to sail away. She helps to stabilize the course and Sokka steers while laughing heinously.

SOKKA: Bye Puwati! Say hello to Bato for me!

The prince cartoonishly shows his tongue to the Vice-Chief, as his ship sails away at enormous speeds. Puwati pulls out his weapon, grunting at the departing ship.

PUWATI: Kenora!

Sokka stops mocking him and raises an eyebrow at the word.

SOKKA: "Kenora"? What does that mean?

Kenora is unwilling and unable to respond.

---

The Changchun palace towers over the relatively small upper sector, with only a few somewhat fancy houses scattered across. The ground floor appears to be a long hall with a throne-like seat at the very end, reminding Aang of the fancy dining chamber in Musho Ichi and of the Earth Kingdom palace in Ba Sing Se. The throne is vacant, indicating that their ruler only appears once the Dai Li have secured the area. Aang already knew who was going to show up. Once the Dai Li place them in front of the seat, a door on the right opens, revealing two more Dai Li agents who accompany Long Feng. Azula can read the expression on her friend's face and is shocked.

AZULA: Do you know him?

Aang doesn't answer, allowing Long Feng to sit down. His appearance is more elegant, with more expensive-looking robes and facial hair that appears more stylish than practical. He presses together his long-nailed fingers and glares at them with a smile.

LONG FENG: No, I have not met the Avatar yet. And it is an honor.

AANG: Then why am I in chains?!

Azula's comment supporting the irony is absent.

LONG FENG: Rock. And I wanted to make sure you understand the dire situation I'm in. Perhaps it will also encourage you to cooperate with me.

Aang is genuinely baffled. Azula seems eerily quiet.

AANG: What do you mean?

Long Feng sits up straight, emphasizing his height to intimidate the two kids.

LONG FENG: For many years I was the loyal servant of the Earth King in Ba Sing Se.

Aang can't help but to scoff.

AANG: Then why are you here then?

Long Feng frowns at his insolence.

LONG FENG: I was ousted! Accused of conspiring against the Earth King and promptly removed by the Council of Five.

The consequences of this play out in Aang's head. Maybe Ba Sing Se is safe in this world. Maybe he should head there instead of the Golden City.

AZULA: Who are they?

Azula finally speaks up, impressing Long Feng with her proper elegance.

LONG FENG: The more pressing question is, who are you, young lady?

She inspects her nails despite her wrists still being in rock shackles.

AZULA: I'm Aang's firebending teacher. Now tell me-

LONG FENG: A firebender? Is that so?

Azula smirks, giving Aang the wrong impression.

AZULA: A master. I've taught it myself and I am unbeatable. I've been holding back all this time in order to go by undetected.

Aang begins to panic and his hatred for Long Feng and the Dai Li shifts towards Azula.

AANG (mumbling to himself): I knew it...

AZULA: So now that we got that, who is this council?

Long Feng smiles at her.

LONG FENG: They're the leaders of the Earth Kingdom. King Kuei is merely a puppet of them. I want you to remove these warlords and restore order in Ba Sing Se, Avatar. Isn't that your mission?

AANG: Liar! You want to control the Earth King yourself!

Long Feng frowns again.

LONG FENG: You don't understand, child! Order needs to be restored in these unprecedented times! The only goal of the council is to drag out the war so they can stay in power!

AZULA: I'll do it.

Everyone's eyes glue back on to Azula. Something inside Aang clicks, the blue flames haunting his mind appear again. Maybe he was wrong to trust Azula from the beginning...

Aang glares with a seething hatred at the Azula standing next to him. In this very moment the lines blur, creating one Azula.

LONG FENG: You will do it? How so?

AZULA: Simple. I infiltrate Ba Sing Se as a refugee. I sneak into the higher parts of society. I get invited into the palace once for a party or other occasion. Then I finish them off.

She ends her villainous plotting in a smile. Chime. Aang loses it.

AANG: YOU LIAR!

He bluntly tackles her down with the full force of his body, toppling them both. He has wanted to do this for years, no bending, no fighting, just him finishing her off. He holds his shackles up to her throat, panting and grunting with all the hatred he has been building up for three years. It felt like his whole life at this point.

AZULA: Aang...

He stops. With everything boiling over, with all of his emotion sitting on top of the raven-haired girl, he looks at her face. Her eyes glare at him with genuine fear. These are eyes that cannot believe what they are seeing. Eyes that spot her friend, the Avatar, trying to strangle her. Kill her. He can feel his mind collapsing in on itself. Aang intends to step off of her, but is pulled away via his shackles, hovering in the air by the whim of an agent. Aang doesn't resist. He only looks at Azula, whose face reminds him of one person, and one person only.

And then his tattoos flare up again, knocking him out.

Azula can't get up and refuses to try. Her breath is heavy and reeks of the panic and pain of suffocation. On her left, Long Feng starts laughing with a devilish flair.

LONG FENG: It seems our little ploy has failed, girl.

She glares at him, not wanting to answer.

LONG FENG: You seem surprised. You think I got this throne because I trust little girls? No.

Long Feng looks over at the unconscious, dangling Avatar.

LONG FENG: I was hoping he would be of use, but I suppose you always have to rely on yourself.

He gets up.

LONG FENG: Bring the Avatar to the newly refurbished quarter.

DAI LI AGENT: Which one-

LONG FENG: I will not repeat myself.

The Dai Li agent nods and complies. His colleague forces Azula to get on two feet, causing her to grunt in pain. Long Feng walks up to her and grabs her face.

LONG FENG: I can see your whole history in your eyes. You were born with nothing. So, you had to struggle and work hard to get at least some power through your bending. But true power, the divine right to rule, is something you're born with.

Azula scoffs.

AZULA: You weren't born with power either.

Long Feng frowns at her, letting go of her head and waving her away. Upon being carried to their jail cell Azula looks at Aang's still body and ponders with fear.

---

Sokka ties a knot on one of the sails while Kenora studies her new scroll, performing some of the moves already with relative ease. He remembers Katara training her natural gift back in the day. Back then he never really cared that much about it. But now his eyes just don't quite get off Kenora. Thoughts that had been growing ever since Musho Ichi finally manifest in an awkward cough and a question.

SOKKA: So, uh... why did you run away from Puwati?

He scratches the back of his head while she avoids eye contact.

KENORA: You a... you told me about him. He's with Bato, and... he wanted to ask me questions about the Avatar.

SOKKA: Really?

Kenora nods frantically.

KENORA: Yup.

She continues her practice. Sokka is impressed by her patience. Not all the forms work right off, but she keeps on trying. For a lesson such as this she is also wearing something more... skinny, highlighting her figure which... Sokka starts gazing upon. Kenora stops her training as soon as she realizes it.

KENORA: Well, uh... I hope you're doing fine without your old stuff.

She packs up the scroll. What is she going to say? She'll be going downstairs to... cook? Yes! Cooking seems like a fine excuse.

KENORA: I'll uh, I'll go and prepare our lunch.

SOKKA: Yes, sounds like a good idea.

She walks away and-

SOKKA: Just one more thing.

She stops.

KENORA: Hm?

SOKKA: Um... who is Kenora?

She freezes on the spot. For a few precious seconds the only sounds audible on board of the Matariki are the waves that it uses to float upon.

KENORA: Um... uh, no idea. Why do you ask?

She finally turns towards him, but comically avoids eye contact.

SOKKA: Puwati screamed it when we left. It's a girl's name, right?

Kenora scoffs.

KENORA: Um, uh, phew, uh... I wouldn't know. I don't know anyone with a name like that...

She tries to salvage the situation by emphasizing a deep voice again. Sokka scratches his chin while thinking.

SOKKA: I think I met someone with that name before.

Kenora's heart pounds as she rushes down to the kitchen corner.

KENORA: Oh yeah?

SOKKA: Yeah. We had a lot of princesses at our palace when I was younger. You know, candidates for betrothal, that kind of stuff...

She looks desperately for the sack of supplies that Sokka bought.

KENORA: Mhm, yeah...

SOKKA: Yeah, and I think one of the girls there was called Kenora. I think she was Puwati's daughter-

The sound of glass shattering echoes through Sokka's mind as he utters those words. His pupils widen to comical size and his mouth shrinks. He peaks down at Kenora like a gopher. The skinny boy with hair he has to constantly cut, and who always insists on changing alone, going to the bathroom alone...

SOKKA: No...

---

Katara: How did you do that? With the water? It was the most amazing thing I've ever seen.

Aang: I don't know. I just sort of... did it.

Katara: Why didn't you tell us you were the Avatar?

Aang: Because... I never wanted to be.

---

Aang's eyes open with greater pain than in the morning. He lets out a fat grunt and tries to stand up.

AZULA: Morning.

He finally realizes that his shackles, tacked against the wall, deter him from standing up, forcing him to sit on the cold stone floor, in a round prison cell, reminding Aang very much of the one in Omashu, with all the air holes on the side. But this time, no beds, no pretty lampshades, and no comfort. An actual prison. On the exact opposite side of the room - Azula.

AZULA: Hope you slept well...

Her tone and appearance could not be more different. While snapping at him in sarcastic tones, her body is weakly slumbering on the ground, her arms hanging on the walls and her head slouching to the side. Azula has always made an effort to avoid being seen as weak, especially with Aang, now that he thinks about it. It seems now that she has given up completely.

AANG: ...

AZULA: Oh, and just so you know...

She pulls her legs towards herself, exposing the soles of her boots in Aang's direction.

AZULA: These guys apparently never met another firebender, so they forgot to tie up my feet.

Her head finally shifts towards him. He can see that she has cried while he was knocked out.

AZULA: So, don't try anything like that. Ever. Again.

She lowers her legs again, letting out a long sigh. Aang's guilt is as painful as his headache.

AANG: Azula, that will never happen again, I promise-

AZULA: I've heard that before.

He immediately shuts up as soon as she speaks. She grimaces in pain, in reality, a failed attempt to repress her tears.

AZULA: My parents weren't exactly... happy all the time.

Her voice quivers.

AZULA (teary): Even before dad left to fight in the war, he and mom...

She pauses, giving Aang the worst feeling imaginable.

AZULA: Even when we were a family, we would spend most days with uncle.

AANG: I'm so... sorry.

AZULA: I don't care how you feel about that. But I have seen this play out before. Dad does something horrible and just... apologizes the next day like nothing happened.

Her face turns into a frown.

AZULA: So, you better give me a damn good reason not to go back to our village with Zuko! Because I have told you about my secret in the Wester Air Temple - and you have told me nothing!

Her breath loudly exits and enters through her widened nostrils. To her surprise, Aang also shows tears.

AZULA: Don't try to get sympathy points.

AANG: I'm sorry for everything you had to go through, Azula. I don't just mean your past, but also with me.

She ponders for a moment.

AZULA: Go on.

AANG: But I'm mostly sorry for not telling you the truth.

Azula scoffs.

AZULA: The truth? Why you get headaches?

AANG: Azula...

His voice echoes with the sound of genuine sincerity, grasping her attention completely.

AANG: What I'm about to tell you... might be... too much.

Fear starts building up in her.

AZULA: What? About the night the temple got attacked? Any gory details?

AANG: No.

He takes a deep breath, pushing Azula towards the edge.

AZULA: Well, say it!

AANG: I'm from a different world!

Her eyes widen and her jaw drops.

---

SOKKA: ...Kenora?

Kenora stands at the kitchen counter, her arms crossed and her head bobbling from side to side.

KENORA: I don't know who that is.

Sokka suddenly gasps for air.

SOKKA: You saw me naked!

He rushes to the side of the ship, with Kenora finally running up the stairs angrily.

KENORA: You were the one who insisted on changing next to me!

He emits gargling noises, as if forcing himself to throw up, something he does not succeed at.

SOKKA: How could you lie to me like that?! We were on this ship for so long-

KENORA: I lied to everyone! I'm not doing this to you alone!

Sokka's anger boils up again.

SOKKA: So, that's what you wanted to say back in Musho Ichi-

Something else pops into his mind.

SOKKA: But you kissed that servant. What?

Kenora pouts and crosses her arms. No need to hide her "feminine body language" any longer.

KENORA: Her name was Chi-Chi! And there is nothing wrong with that!

Sokka seems more devastated than angry.

SOKKA: But... but how?

KENORA: What do you mean how?

Sokka taps his fingers together like a child.

SOKKA: How do two girls even...

Kenora's face turns red.

KENORA: You sexist, chauvinistic, DOUCHEBAG!

SOKKA: Don't talk to me like that! You should know your place!

In a fit of rage Kenora creates a wave-like disruption under the ship, almost throwing Sokka off-board.

KENORA: My PLACE?! Are you SERIOUS RIGHT NOW? I fought the AVATAR for you! I've been doing ALL the work on deck while you're off playing soldier! I even wash all the clothes! Have you ever smelled your dirty socks? Let me tell you, NOT PLEASANT!

She crescendos into a giant wave, that pushes the Matariki off-course. Neither of them really cares right now.

SOKKA: Maybe it's better if I go hunting the Avatar on my own! Maybe that's why we haven't caught him yet - leave it to a girl to screw things up!

KENORA: Screw you, you are nothing without me! No one else wants to join your stupid crew anyways!

SOKKA: That's not true-

KENORA: They all think you're a joke!

Sokka stops, as he feels on the inside that this is true. He had tried to lie away the feeling thus far.

KENORA: They don't take you seriously! They think you're weak and pathetic, and you know what? They say the same thing about me!

Sokka's ego gets the better of him.

SOKKA: I am nothing like you! I'm a prince!

KENORA: Who got banished!

Kenora stops, realizing her blunder. Sokka is speechless. This truly hit a nerve Kenora didn't know was there.

---

AZULA: A different world?

Aang hangs his head down low. He didn't want this to happen, not like this.

AANG: I didn't...

He sighs again.

AANG: I didn't want to tell you guys right away because... I knew it would be too much.

AZULA: What is too much?

He conjures the strength to meet her eyes. They reek of desperation and fear. Yet, he cannot stop now. This is it.

AANG: I was born in the Southern Air Temple, as a nomad like the others. But I was not like the others. When I was twelve, already an airbending master, the monks told me I was the Avatar.

Azula is baffled.

AZULA: Yes. I know this-

AANG: But I never wanted to be. War was coming...

Azula expects something that will surprise her in a way she will not like.

AANG: I fled the day I found out they wanted to bring me to the Eastern Air Temple.

AZULA: What...

AANG: A storm caught Appa and me. We crashed into the ocean, where, in my Avatar State, I created a dome of ice around me.

Azula shudders at the similarity.

AANG: One hundred years later, two kids from the Southern Water Tribe found me.

He has to take another deep breath.

AANG: ...Katara and Sokka.

Azula's eyes flash up in horror.

AZULA: What?!

AANG: Do you want me to continue?

Azula's heartbeat increases.

AZULA: How? How is...

AANG: I can stop if-

AZULA: No! Please tell me!

Her face cramps together for a moment.

AZULA: I need to know.

Aang nods.

AANG: I found out I was gone for a hundred years, and that the Fire Nation had started a war...

Her eyes flash up again, her face frowning in fear.

AANG: A banished prince named Zuko made it his mission to capture me. We escaped and went on an adventure to the North Pole, in order to find a waterbending teacher for me and-

AZULA: Stop.

She shakes her head.

AANG: You have to understand-

AZULA: I do. And that's what scares me.

He understands completely.

AZULA: It all makes sense - you attacked us, you freaked out when you saw Sokka, you knew where to go, you already know some firebending-

She glares at him.

AZULA: Do you already know all the elements?!

AANG: No! I mean, I-

He sighs.

AANG: I learned them, but here...

AZULA: You forgot?

AANG: It's hard to explain. I think it's because I'm in a younger body.

Azula raises her brow.

AZULA: "Younger"? How old are you?

Aang ponders for a moment.

AANG: Well, 116. Actually, 228 if it continued into this world...

Azula is weirded out.

AZULA: Oh.

She gasps.

AZULA: Oh...

AANG: What?

AZULA: That's why you act so weird. I mean, besides all the otherworldly stuff - it's because you're older!

He raises a brow at the comical detail she focuses on.

AZULA: I always thought you are so weird and stern. Like, you should just be a kid.

Now Aang is the one reacting with emotion, unsettling Azula.

AZULA: Aang? How does your story end?

He was afraid she'd ask that. He decides to give her the abridged answer.

AANG: We lost. We won against an invasion in the north, but after that it was failure after failure. First Omashu fell, then Ba Sing Se. We tried invading the capital, but...

AZULA: What?

He can't say Azula screwed it up.

AANG: We... we lost. We had to flee. Many people were taken prisoner that we never saw again...

For the first time Azula truly grasp at how dire Aang sounds.

AZULA: So, you're not... mean.

She nods her head in an Azula-fashion.

AZULA: I mean, you are, but just not out of any malicious reasons. It's because... you already lost so much.

She sighs in shame.

AZULA: I'm such an idiot...

Aang gets offended on her behalf.

AANG: No, no, don't say that! You absolutely had reason to suspect something. I... I should have just told you right away.

AZULA: Well, Zuko would not have been a fan of himself being the bad guy...

AANG: Actually...

She tilts her head to the side, like a curious animal.

AANG: He ended up switching sides. He became one of my closest friends. And my firebending teacher.

She snickers at that last part.

AZULA: Zuko? A firebender?

Aang can't help but laugh.

AZULA: So that's why you thought he was one-

She snaps as she realizes.

AZULA: Wait, is that what this whole "Avatar Cycle thing" was about? Is it air, water, earth and fire in your world?

Aang gets really worked up, but in an innocent way.

AANG: Yes! Man, that was so weird for me...

Azula can't help but to chuckle a bit, infecting Aang with it.

AZULA: We thought you were such a doofus.

They laugh for a few more moments, until it subsides. There has been a question burning on Azula's mind, one that makes her more scared than anything else she's heard. Aang knows what it is.

AZULA: Aang? Who am I in that world?

---

SOKKA: That's not true...

Kenora's voice takes on a softer tone, one that reminds Sokka of his mother.

KENORA: I'm sorry, but it is.

Sokka scoffs in disbelief. He had a suspicion this was the case, unwilling to ever utter it out loud.

SOKKA: How would you even know?

The ship starts getting controlled by the increasingly high waves. Sokka gets to the helm, while Kenora stabilizes the sails.

KENORA: Back at the Boiling Rock! I snuck past a room with Bato and dad-

She cringes at the phrasing.

SOKKA: What did they say?

KENORA: They said you're a failure, and that your father banished you because you failed your Ice Dodging!

Sokka is glad that Kenora can't see his face right now, as it is expressing a deep, emotional disgust of himself.

SOKKA: I never had my Ice Dodging. Father said I'd have a hard time.

The turbulence stops and the waves calm down. Sokka steps away from the wheel and sits down at the stairs, humble and defeated. Kenora waits for a moment, then walks up to him and sits down at his level.

KENORA: Because...

SOKKA: Because I'm not a waterbender. The first and only heir in our bloodline so far.

Kenora feels how this is taking a toll on him.

KENORA: So, you wanted to catch a firebender to prove your worth?

SOKKA: I wanted to distract myself. Get away from the idea that I was disowned by my father.

Kenora tries cheering him up.

KENORA: He'll come around and change his mind - you're his son. The heir! And he'll greet you with open arms when you bring the Avatar with you.

Sokka manages to respond with a genuine smile.

SOKKA: You're still going to help me with that? After everything I said?

Kenora scoffs, getting up and standing across from him.

KENORA: Listen, I don't care who you are.

Sokka is offended for a second.

KENORA: You're just a person to me. And as long as you can look at me the same way, I'm down.

He intends to answer but is cut off.

KENORA: As long as you make me a captain once the job is done.

Sokka grins devilishly.

SOKKA: Deal.

He gets up and stretches.

SOKKA: So, what about your dad?

Kenora sighs in the most disgusted-sounding way possible.

KENORA: Oh, spirits help me...

Sokka is amused.

SOKKA: What? Can't be worse than mine.

Kenora raises her brow to exaggerated heights.

KENORA: Really? Try growing up as a girl in the Water Tribe.

She pretends to hold a long dress in both fingers, talking a fancy voice.

KENORA: "You have to dress and behave like a proper princess! All the boys in the court will want to ask for your hand!"

She underlines her performance with a gag noise. Sokka laughs in amusement.

SOKKA: That's not your thing?

Kenora laughs out loud in a sarcastic tone.

KENORA: No. Would it be your thing?

Sokka frowns.

SOKKA: Of course not, I'm not a girl.

Kenora glares at him.

SOKKA: I meant... I'm not that type of girl.

She accepts the weak save and walks downstairs towards the kitchen counter. Sokka follows to the top of the stairs, wanting to continue.

KENORA: You want to hear something funny?

She looks around the kitchen for something.

SOKKA: What?

KENORA: Our dads wanted us to get married. Could you imagine that?

He fake laughs, but actually imagines it, thinking that it doesn't sound that bad.

SOKKA: Yeah...

KENORA: Where is the supply sack?

She walks into a tiny hallway, entering Sokka's quarters. The prince suddenly panics, rushing after her.

SOKKA: Oh, wait-wait-wait-wait-wait-wait-wait!

She opens the burlap sack in his room.

KENORA: What? What is i-

She looks inside the sack, finding all of Sokka's belongings, which he supposedly sold earlier. Sokka can see her face changing color even when her back is turned.

---

AZULA: Tell me.

Aang struggles to find an answer. This is the most delicate thing he's had to do. The question lingers - is the new Azula important enough for him to-

AZULA: Just tell me Aang! I need to know - please!

AANG: I don't know!

The raven-haired girl is not satisfied.

AZULA: You don't know?

AANG: You don't exist! Zuko grew up as an only child.

Azula is taken back by that.

AZULA: What?

AANG: Not everything is the same.

He sighs. He can't tell her how he has nightmares with her face in it. He can't say how she is the monster he hates the most - more than Ozai. He feels those things for the Fire Lord. This is Azula.

AANG: I've met Sokka, Iroh, Bato, Ty Lee, Haru...

Azula is impressed by the name drops, but not convinced.

AZULA: But?

AANG: But then there's Zhila, that awful teacher. Musho Ichi - Sokka's helper!

AZULA: Poko?

AANG: Yeah! There's no one like that in my world!

Azula sighs, but nods in agreeance. Aang is relieved.

AZULA: I'm like... 75 percent sure that's a girl in disguise.

Aang scoffs.

AANG: In my culture, we don't believe in a binary. We see people as people, not their gender.

Azula scoffs back.

AZULA: Can't argue with that.

She pulls her legs towards her chest.

AZULA: So? What now?

AANG: Are you already convinced? Do you want to know more?

She shakes her head reluctantly.

AZULA: No, I really don't. At least not yet.

Aang exhales in relief.

AZULA: But what about the others? Should we go and tell Ty Lee and Zuko?

She remembers one more question.

AZULA: Wait, who is Ty Lee in your world?

AANG: Not an airbender. She is a chi blocker working for the...

He lies.

AANG: I don't know, some Fire Nation thing.

Azula scoffs.

AZULA: Weird how that's a bad thing in your vocabulary...

Aang scoffs too.

AANG: You have no idea...

AZULA: No wonder you attacked me. And no wonder you froze when you saw Zuko.

She gasps.

AZULA: And when we went to the Western Air Temple, your energy probably collided with the other Aang and made you see what he saw.

Aang's jaw drops.

AANG: I uh... I never thought about it like that. That's probably right.

Azula smirks at him.

AZULA: Told you, you are the worst Avatar ever.

They share a laugh together. Although Azula realizes she has to say something uplifting, as apparently Aang is bad at his job.

AZULA: Hey, we're going to find a way to help you get back home.

AANG: I won't leave before I fix this world.

AZULA: Is that why you're here?

Aang remembers Roku fading into dust.

AANG: I actually don't know. I tried to contact the previous Avatars to ask for help but... something happened.

AZULA: And you ended up here.

Aang nods.

AZULA: Hm. Maybe they just screwed up. But either way, they're our best shot at getting some answers. How did you contact Avatar Kaiyuko?

Aang raises his eyebrow.

AANG: Kaiyuko?

AZULA: Yes, the Avatar before-

She stops herself.

AZULA: Oh, you're probably thinking of a firebender then...

AANG: Kaiyuko...

A name that is completely new to Aang.

AANG: Yes. In my world, the Avatar before me was Roku.

Azula's eyes flare up again.

AZULA: What?!

AANG: Do you know him?

AZULA: Yes! Roku was our great grandfather! That headpiece was his!

Aang did not expect to be surprised like this.

---

Ty Lee gracefully performs more of Aang's exercises on the volcanic fields. She has mastered all of Aang's basic forms and has begun blending her acrobatic skills with the airbending. She sets up a cartwheel, spinning in the air, and creating a powerful wheel of wind around her, precisely aiming it at a rock below. She finishes off the stunt with a superhero landing.

ZUKO: Bravo!

She looks back at the little hill in the middle of the field. The bison has decided to take a nap, with Zuko sitting inside the saddle reading a book about local Fire Nation spirits and myths. Ty Lee smirks a bit flirty.

TY LEE: I thought you were reading?

His cheeks begin to blush.

ZUKO: Well, I... read a page and then peaked at what you're doing, ha-ha...

TY LEE: In that case, I hope you liked my performance.

He hides his face behind the book.

TY LEE: Maybe we could try and have a little sparring session.

Zuko shuts his book.

ZUKO: Uh... sparring session?

TY LEE: Yes. I hope you're not intimidated.

Zuko scratches the back of his head while leaning further and further back.

ZUKO: I don't see shame in being intimidated. You're a capable fighter and - AH!

He leans back too much and falls on his back. Ty Lee giggles in joy, infecting Zuko with it, who grunts in pain. The bison announces his awakening with a loud growl, Zuko greeting the animal by climbing on its head and scratching it.

ZUKO: Well, good morning big guy! I hope you had a great nap.

The bison enjoys the snuggles, snorting repeatedly and tapping one of his feet.

TY LEE: He really seems to like you.

ZUKO: I guess so. I have a good hand with animals.

Appa grunts. Ty Lee smiles at the boy.

TY LEE: I think that's really sweet.

He smiles back. Their chatter is interrupted by someone else's chatter, that of Sabachi, who soars above, landing in front of Appa. The bison grunts at it.

ZUKO: Uh... do you think they're heading back?

Ty Lee frowns with concern.

TY LEE: No. I think they're in trouble.

---

Puwati caresses the balustrade of his ironclad. On deck, he oversees the entirety of Port Hakoda, wondering dearly why his daughter didn't spot him earlier. Then again, it was very recently that he had gotten his new ironclad ship. He had held on to his old ship, the Luawai. An elegant but fearsome vessel, one which has helped him in many battles, including the rebellion on Kyoshi. But times change, and water with it, so why should he hold on to something that is better off serving as a trophy, then to lose it in battle? Plus, this new ship did grow on him. It is of ginormous size, with a total of four impressively stark sails. His favorite part though was the nose of the ship. A silver ornament in the shape of an alligator shark, or rather its head, ads a few more meters to the ship's already impressive length. He named his new ship the Koriata. Only the Great Chief had a boat more impressive in design and size.

AE' KIKI: Vice Chief?

His lieutenant arrives on deck, knocking his chest and awaiting Puwati's response. Despite being much smaller in size, Ae' Kiki is in no way intimidated. He earned his position and Puwati appreciated having a skilled waterbender as his second-in-command. Even if he disapproved of his rather unusual brown mustache.

PUWATI: News?

AE' KIKI: The, uh... prince is driving westwards. Should we pursue with small marine units?

PUWATI: No. Let them go.

Puwati shows his lieutenant the book from Ridge Scrolls, the same booklet Kenora looked at earlier.

PUWATI: If the prince is in pursuit of the Avatar, we can decipher that he's heading to Changchun.

AE' KIKI: Should we contact-

PUWATI: No.

Knowing what Ae' Kiki would propose he immediately cut him off. Puwati hands him the book.

PUWATI: Send a message to Bato. His target is west of Changchun.

AE' KIKI: Sir?

PUWATI: The Avatar will not remain long in there. It is a...

For just a second, the Vice-Chief touches the scar running across his missing ear on the side.

AE' KIKI: Hostile place.

Ae' Kiki nods with a smirk.

AE' KIKI: We got word from Bato that he's inside the Crescent Archipelago.

PUWATI: Good. He can pursue the Avatar on foot.

Ae' Kiki is still not leaving.

AE' KIKI: Sir?

PUWATI: What?

AE' KIKI: What if the Avatar escapes in any other direction?

Puwati turns towards the ocean and Hakoda's statue.

PUWATI: Any other direction is water, lieutenant. If the Avatar decides to go off-course, we will know. For the water is our dominion.

Ae' Kiki pounds his chest, announcing his departure and subsequent implementation of his orders. Once he has left, Puwati clenches the railings of his ship with anger. But also, a hint of fear.

PUWATI: Stupid girl. I better not find your body...

In the distance, storm clouds arise.

---

Act III. - The false king

---

A blast of water heaves Prince Sokka out of the inner quarters and back on to the deck with a comical scream. Kenora follows him with loud footsteps, in her hands the chest offered to him by Chattar Buzhang. It's not filled to the brim but, still...

KENORA: You took his slave gold?!

SOKKA: Hey-hey-hey-hey-hey! I didn't take all of it!

Storm clouds grow in the distance.

KENORA: I can't believe you did that - after everything that happened in that city?!

SOKKA: Yes, but we needed the money - you said it yourself!

KENORA: We agreed on selling your stuff! That's how we get it!

SOKKA: You agreed on it! I was against it!

Kenora realizes how she forced her will on him. Though she felt empowered earlier, she just feels terrible now.

SOKKA: What if I sold your waterbending scrolls? Or your necklace?

She grabs it tightly at the thought.

SOKKA: Exactly.

He sits up, soaking wet.

SOKKA: That's everything I have left, Kenora! I don't know if I can ever go back to my home.

She sighs.

KENORA: So, you didn't buy any supplies?

SOKKA: Of course I did! They're stored in your quarters.

KENORA: Good.

She walks over to the side, opens the chest and empties all the gold into the waters. Sokka panics in an instant.

SOKKA: Wait, WHAT?! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!

By the time he catches up to her, the last piece drops into the ocean blue, Kenora letting go of the chest right after.

SOKKA: No...

He comically cries after it.

KENORA: You shouldn't have taken it in the first place.

A loud thud distracts them both, forcing them back into their positions - Kenora at the sails and Sokka at the helm.

KENORA: We hit something!

The Matariki has come to a hold, with the right side of it elevated into the air. Kenora rushes to it, seeing that the ship has rammed part of a Water Tribe wreckage sticking out of the ocean. The weight of the catamaran eventually pushes it underwater, and the ship is on even grounds again.

SOKKA: That went well.

As the two look ahead, they spot a whole ocean of shipwrecks, plastered throughout their path to Changchun.

KENORA: Agni's Shipyard...

They share a look of fear as they head into it. Thunder rumbles not too far away, and the ominous storm clouds that had been building up bring a drizzled rain with them.

KENORA: Maybe we should... take a different route...

SOKKA: No. The Avatar is within our reach. We have to take the risk!

Kenora gulps, reluctantly walking back to her post.

SOKKA: I won't miss my Ice Dodging this time.

---

The thunderstorm over Changchun carries precarious winds with it. Aang and Azula sit inside their jail cell, both with their legs crossed.

AZULA: Hm... what about that old lady who was on Bato's ship?

AANG: Yeah, she's Sokka's gran-gran.

Azula frowns at the weird term.

AZULA: Hm... Long Feng?

AANG: In charge of Ba Sing Se. Used to run the Earth Kingdom from the shadows.

AZULA: I knew it!

She calms herself down.

AZULA: Hm. Strange.

AANG: That your great-grandfather was the Avatar in my world?

AZULA: Yeah, I guess so. But I meant the thing as a whole. Why would the spirits send you here with no apparent goal?

Aang shrugs.

AANG: I haven't found an answer yet.

AZULA: Then we will together.

They share a warm smile. Guilt overcomes Aang again.

AANG: I am so sorry I didn't tell you earlier.

Azula shrugs as well.

AZULA: You know, after hearing the whole thing, I'm not really surprised that you did. It's a bonkers story.

Aang nods.

AANG: We need to tell the others.

AZULA: No.

Aang frowns in confusion.

AANG: No?

AZULA: Zuko trusts you with every fiber in his body, I don't think it's a good idea to upset him with this. I can speak to Ty Lee and tell her that it's too hard for you to talk about it right now. She respects those things.

Aang is comforted and grateful for her intuition.

AZULA: Which is technically true, it is hard...

They share another smile.

AANG: Azula, I just want you to know...

A strange sensation is building up in her stomach upon hearing these words.

AANG: Whatever happens, whatever new information you'll hear, I just want you to know that it's not your fault. I do not and will not ever blame you for anything that happens.

Azula nods.

AZULA: Rich, coming from the guy who tried to strangle me.

He looks down at the ground.

AANG: I was not being myself...

He notices, at this precise moment, that his headache has disappeared.

AANG: It's gone.

AZULA: What is?

AANG: My headache, I feel... so much better.

Azula can't help but to scoff in a mocking tone.

AZULA: Maybe your head was trying to tell you that you should trust me more.

Aang smiles at her, giving her this warm feeling again. Azula's eyes snap wide open, as she remembers another detail.

AZULA: Oh! So that's what Appa meant!

Aang raises his brow.

AANG: Uh... what?

AZULA: Back at the Air Temple, he told me that you act totally different, that you're like a completely different person now than before you got stuck in the volcano.

Aang blinks with comical timing.

AANG: He told you? Like... talk?

AZULA: Well, not talk. But you know, he went-

She imitates Appa's growling like a crazy person. Aang's jaw is wide open.

AANG: And you understand him?

AZULA: Yeah. You don't?

As Azula tells him this, she realizes the look she's receiving, subsequently blushing in awkwardness.

AANG: I... can't do that. Like, I understand him as a creature, but I don't literally translate what he's saying.

AZULA: Oh...

She is very clearly embarrassed a lot by this. Aang on the other hand is impressed.

AANG: Azula, that is wonderful. It's a gift!

AZULA: Don't patronize me.

AANG: No, I mean it! Can you talk to other animals as well?

AZULA: No.

Sabachi's chatter echoes through the prison cell.

AZULA (to Sabachi): Oh, shut up!

AANG: Sabachi!

The little lemur shows itself, having been hidden inside one of the air holes in the wall. It walks over to Aang, rubbing its head into his stomach.

AANG: How long has she been here?

AZULA: Oh, a while, but I didn't want to say anything.

The animal screeches at Azula.

AZULA: Oh, you're such a drama queen - no one is excluding you!

AANG: So, you can understand her!

Azula realizes her blunder and grunts.

AZULA: Fine! I can talk to animals. You're happy?

She is surprised to find him with a humbling smile.

AANG: I am. You have a special gift, Azula.

This is the first time she thinks positively about it.

AZULA: Hm. Maybe I shouldn't feel ashamed of it.

AANG: Probably not, because it's also our ticket out of here.

---

The two benders gasp in awe at the number of things Sabachi has crammed inside her pouch.

AANG: I didn't even know they were marsupials.

The little lemur is surrounded by a small pile of things, including gold pieces from Musho Ichi, a leather ball from the Spirit Festival, and an empty clam shell.

AZULA: Where do you fit all of that?

The lemur chatters at her with a spiteful tone.

AZULA: "None of my business"? You watch your tone, young lady!

The lemur chatters again, with Aang trying to mediate the situation.

AANG: Guys! Come on, we've got to focus!

The girls both glare at him, then at each other, then they calm down.

AANG: What are we going to do with all of this stuff?

Azula smirks.

AZULA: I have an idea.

---

Seeking shelter inside a tent, Zuko and Ty Lee are huddled next to each other. Neither of them really want to say anything, as right in front of them, Appa's head is seeking cover from the heavy rainfall.

ZUKO: So, uh... when are we going to look for them?

A screeching, wet lemur enters the tent, landing in the middle and shaking its fur dry, getting water on to literally everyone else, causing protest and grunts.

ZUKO: Did you find them?

The lemur jumps around hysterically, with neither of the kids being able to understand it. What they do notice is a piece of gold it's holding in its hand.

TY LEE: What do you want us to do?

The lemur rushes outside, Appa following it.

ZUKO: Well, I think follow it.

Zuko only now notices that their cuddling is no longer necessary, and so the two separate rather suddenly.

---

Flying over the city, the massive animal is drenched in rain, so are his passengers.

ZUKO: We're should we go?

Zuko steers the animal. All of a sudden, Appa grunts and Sabachi screeches in discomfort. Without Zuko's input, the bison dives straight down into the upper ring and towards its prison tower. Ty Lee and Zuko scream in panic.

---

Waves clash against the Matariki, drenching Sokka and Kenora almost as much as the heavy rain fall. Sokka puts all of his strength into the wheel, trying to dodge the dozens of crashed ship parts, scattered across. Even if they choose to leave now, the winds and waves would only push them back into Agni's shipyard. Kenora switches constantly between stabilizing their sails and bending waves, either away or to their advantage. The two have to practically shout with each other as to be heard.

KENORA: Do you know what you're doing?

SOKKA: I can do this - trust me!

KENORA: But Sokka, you've never had your Ice Dodging!

SOKKA: Thanks for reminding me!

The huge drop from a wave they crossed almost launches the Matariki into a wooden helm sticking out of the ocean. Kenora manages to bend a body of water just in time, as to get them across safely.

SOKKA: You have to trust me!

She meets his eyes.

SOKKA: I trust you, Kenora!

She nods her head but is unable to ignore her racing heart.

---

The bison lands right in front of the tower, with Ty Lee and Zuko jumping off. Sabachi remains hidden on the saddle.

LONG FENG: Who are you?

Appa moves aside, revealing that Long Feng, accompanied by two Dai Li agents (one is holding an umbrella for their king) are also at the entrance of the prison.

ZUKO: We...

Ty Lee tries to think of something to say and remembers the events of Musho Ichi.

TY LEE: I am the Avatar!

Long Feng and his men look confused. Zuko tries to play along.

ZUKO: Yeah! Haven't you heard the Avatar has returned?

Long Feng glares at them.

LONG FENG: I have captured the Avatar and his firebending teacher this morning! How could you-

TY LEE: Oh, let me guess, a little bald kid with fake tattoos?

The king of Changchun is genuinely baffled.

LONG FENG: He uh... did have hair. Wait, fake tattoos?

ZUKO: Yeah, and his so-called teacher? She's a well-known con-artist! We've been trying to catch these two for months!

Long Feng frowns at his Dai Li agent with the umbrella, who simply shrugs.

LONG FENG: Well, they are my prisoners now. Perhaps you should leave my city and get shelter somewhere.

Ty Lee remembers the gold pieces from Sabachi, revealing them to Long Feng.

TY LEE: Maybe we can... strike a deal?

She offers the friendliest grin possible. Long Feng can't help but to smile as well, but at the gold pieces.

---

Despite their earlier fighting, the two to sail the catamaran through the dangerous wreckages, occasionally scratching one side, but getting through it anyway. Kenora heaves the ship with all of her force over a knocked-over bone ship, similar to what Sokka had previously. A scratch noise is heard as they fall back into the water again.

KENORA: Sorry...

SOKKA: We can fix it later!

Sokka's expression changes comically, as he looks ahead. The Matariki was forced in between two ships, a smaller ironclad and a bigger wooden ship, resulting in a corridor just big enough to fit through. If that wasn't enough already - a gigantic wave, towering above all three ships, is sweeping towards them.

SOKKA: Kenora?!

She steps forward, performing a complex but quick waterbending move, that splits the wave in two as they pass through it. He woos victoriously.

SOKKA: We did it! We're almost through-

He looks ahead - Kenora is nowhere on deck.

SOKKA: Oh no.

He looks behind him, seeing a blue figure devoured by the waves.

SOKKA: Not today!

He makes a hard spin to the left, intentionally ramming the Matariki in between the two shipwrecks, allowing the boat to get stuck on the spot, at least to some degree. He thinks about taking off his shoes first, but grunts the thought away, diving head-first into the waters. It's hard to spot really anything underwater, it's times like these Sokka wishes the spirits had just granted him the gift of bending. A lightning flashes in the distance, illuminating the waters for just a second - there Sokka sees it - Kenora's shining necklace reflected the flash. He swims towards her body, which he can only barely determine as such. He can feel his breath is running low, but he pushes on. Grabbing her body, he tries to find her face, which he nonchalantly slaps a few times, causing Kenora to snap open her eyes. Sokka points in the direction that is "up". Kenora creates a water funnel without hesitation, pushing them both above the surface. The two gasp for air.

SOKKA: We need to get back to the ship!

Kenora only has enough oxygen to breath, meaning she merely nods. A loud scratching sound indicates that the waves are pushing the Matariki away from its makeshift parking spot. Kenora shakes the fear off her face, creating a blast behind both of them which catapults them towards the ship. As the vessel is pushed away, Sokka manages to grab ahold of it, pulling himself and Kenora on to it. He rushes over to the helm and grabs the wheel again. Kenora crawls downstairs and just lays on the ground. She did not expect Sokka to be this strong.

---

Water drops down off of Ty Lee and Zuko, as they stand in the throne room, staring Long Feng directly into his eyes. He is once again surrounded by two Dai Li agents.

TY LEE: You got a nice palace here.

Zuko nudges her in the arm, as if trying to tell her to be more serious. Long Feng folds his arms and leans forward.

LONG FENG: So, what brings the Avatar and her companion into Changchun?

Ty Lee looks at him with big eyes, bluntly expressing her goals.

TY LEE: Oh, well we're looking for the Golden City actually. You know, after we've taken the imposter into our custody.

She winks at him in a goofy manner, causing Zuko to shake his head in embarrassment.

LONG FENG: The Golden City? What brings you there?

She shrugs in a cutesy way.

TY LEE: Oh, just wanted to see how it's like.

Long Feng leans back into his chair.

LONG FENG: You sure you're not looking for a firebending master?

Ty Lee puts on a fake grin.

ZUKO: Yes! You, uh... caught us, your highness. The Avatar was hoping to find a firebending master there.

LONG FENG: Hm... what about you? Aren't you looking for a master as well?

Zuko scratches the back of his wet head.

ZUKO: No, I was not blessed with the gift of firebending, unfortunately...

TY LEE: Do you want to see a cool airbending trick?

She announces the with the same excitement that she would present to her friends. Long Feng seems mostly irritated by this.

LONG FENG: Sure. Go ahead.

She clenches her fists together with her tongue out, creating a dome of air that spreads across her, completely drying her clothes and hair.

TY LEE: Ta-da!

One of the Dai Li agents claps for a moment, but immediately stops as soon as his king glares at him.

LONG FENG: Your bending skills are quite... impressive, Avatar.

TY LEE: Thank you!

His mood is the opposite of whatever Ty Lee expresses.

LONG FENG: Anyhow, I have a proposition for you, a mission if you will.

Zuko and Ty Lee share confused looks.

LONG FENG: I will tell you where the Golden City is, if you head to Ba Sing Se before that.

Zuko crosses his arms.

ZUKO: What do you want us to do in Ba Sing Se?

The side door opens, and two more agents enter, accompanied by Aang and Azula wearing rock shackles.

TY LEE: Oh, there they are!

Aang and Azula are confused by her poorly acted "bad cop" routine but are smart enough to just play along.

LONG FENG: The imposter and his girlfriend are yours.

Aang and Azula shudder at the term, though Azula not as much.

LONG FENG: Same as the location of the Golden City. But only if you head to Ba Sing Se and deal with the Council of Five.

ZUKO: Council of Five?

TY LEE: Deal!

Long Feng nods, handing over the "prisoners" to Zuko.

LONG FENG: You will have two Dai Li agents accompanying you on your journey, for... safety purposes.

The two agents stand next to Ty Lee, who starts getting nervous.

TY LEE: Is that really... necessary?

LONG FENG: It is. Unless you've mastered earthbending already.

Ty Lee chuckles awkwardly.

TY LEE: Well, only if you have as well!

Her insignificant comment triggers a very scared reaction from Long Feng, which Azula takes note of. Based on his very weak-looking body, long fingernails and elegant body language she had already suspected something was off - it finally clicks.

AZULA: He's not an earthbender!

The four kids exchange quick smiles. For a second, Long Feng realizes he has been tricked. But it's too late for him - Aang and Azula knock out one of the agents with a combined fire kick, while Ty Lee dodges, deflects and defeats the agents meant to accompany them. Aang is, as always, impressed by her airbending skills. Zuko takes on a Dai Li agent, but is caught by a rock hand, although ultimately his opponent is knocked out by Azula. Aang jumps behind Long Feng, who tries to escape, using his shackles as way to lock his neck on the spot.

AANG: Nobody move!

The agents not unconscious, only two, hesitate to react.

LONG FENG: Do something!

They take a step.

AZULA: No. Don't.

They listen to her, causing her to smile.

AZULA: Thought so.

She takes the bison flute from Aang's pocket and blows into it - Appa subsequently rams open the door, three agents trying to hold him down, but failing. Aang chuckles to himself.

AANG: They used to be better.

Azula smiles at him, as she knows what he means. Ty Lee and Appa knock out the remaining agents still moving. Sabachi flies out of the saddle, landing on the shoulder of a smug Azula. Long Feng sighs in defeat.

LONG FENG: You beat me at my own game.

AANG: And now you will tell us where the Golden City is.

Long Feng scoffs.

TY LEE: And break their shackles!

One of the Dai Li agents barely on two feet receives a nod from his king, removing all shackles with one grip. Then he gets knocked out by Appa's beaver tail.

TY LEE: So?

She flies in front of the king. Aang's restraints can no longer be used as a means of keeping him in one place, but surrounded by four kids, a lemur and a bison, he hangs his head low, answering in defeat.

LONG FENG: The Northern Air Temple.

Aang's eyes flash up.

AANG. What?

LONG FENG: It got swallowed by the ocean when the Water Tribes first attacked. In its place a city was built by firebenders and Air Nomads, a safe haven for the weak.

Aang and Azula share an excited look.

ZUKO: You were just defeated by two airbenders and a firebender, so I guess not that weak, huh?

They share a good laugh as they climb on to Appa, leaving the king of Changchun behind. Azula mocks him one last time.

AZULA: We'll be sure to say hi to the Earth King once we're there.

AANG: Yip-yip!

The bison crashes through the main door again and escapes the city just as more soldiers arrive. Long Feng gets back up with the little honor he has, looking around the throne room with an annoyed expression.

LONG FENG: Where is the other shoe?!

---

The moon rises over the colossal fortress that is Changchun, and the Matariki docks on a patch of land a good chunk away from it. The rain has faded out into a drizzle, and the prince looks ahead at the city, the waters around it filled with spikes.

SOKKA: How are we going to get around that?

He gasps in shock - spotting the silhouette of the Avatar's bison against the full moon, flying away further from him. Sokka sighs in disappointment as they went through Agni's shipyard for no reason.

KENORA: Sokka?

Sokka turns around, trying to hide his disappointment from Kenora.

SOKKA: Oh hey! Look who it is!

She crawls up the stairs, sitting down on the side of the ship, where Sokka decides to place himself next to her.

KENORA: Did we make it?

Sokka nods in shame.

SOKKA: Yup. I'll uh... go ask around if they saw him, but my instinct tells me they're already gone.

Kenora sighs, trying to bend the water from her clothes.

SOKKA: That was uh... really amazing of you. You saved our butts in there.

Kenora scoffs, humbled by the comment.

KENORA: What you did was amazing. You saved my life.

Sokka takes the comment with less humility.

SOKKA: Well, it's the kind of thing you get to do when you're a captain.

Kenora snickers at the comment.

KENORA: I'm glad you know.

SOKKA: Hm?

KENORA: I hated hiding it from you. From anyone really, but especially from you.

She gives him a half-smile which he gladly accepts.

SOKKA: Can I ask you one question?

KENORA: Sure.

SOKKA: Why "Poko"?

She grunts in discomfort.

KENORA: I had a pet isopod crab named Poko when I was a kid. It was the only thing I could think of.

Sokka tries holding it back, but eventually bursts out in laughter. Kenora is offended at first but decides to join in after a while.

---

The drizzle fades away and the storm subsides. Aang lands Appa a good distance away from Changchun, having flown west even though he knows his goal is heading north-east. He crawls back into the saddle, where the other three apparently couldn't wait any longer.

TY LEE: Well, that was something, huh?

ZUKO: Why did it take you guys that long? How did you get captured?

Aang tries to come up with an answer, and-

AZULA: We got into trouble. Kind of made a scene to be honest... but... we made it.

She gifts him with a very rare and honest smile, something Aang sees for the first time.

AZULA: Oh, by the way...

She crams in her pocket, revealing a headband carrying a lotus symbol on it.

AZULA: I wanted to give you this as a gift. No matter how much hair you have, the arrow on your forehead is still visible. So...

She gestures for him to turn, gently putting the headband around his head. For a moment she caresses his cheek but decides to pull away.

TY LEE: Are you crying, Aang?

He hadn't even noticed it, but the overwhelming joy did cause him to shed some tears. He allows it to happen and cries in front of his new friends, who all hug him in a loving embrace.