Long chapter. It was intense to write so enjoy!

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Chapter 17: Retribution

(Amara POV)

We had been docked for the last day. From what I heard, the Avatar appeared to be headed north to the Northern Water Tribe. Zuko told me that he believed the Avatar was going there to find a teacher to master waterbending. We were anchored at a Fire Nation harbor on the northern coast of the Earth Kingdom so Zuko could plan his next course of action.

I had been staying in my room a lot since my panic and attempt to jump ship the other week. Part of me was embarrassed by my rashness, while the other part of me felt uncomfortable due to my reveal to everyone that I was against them. The few crewmen I ran into tried to reassure me that no one hated me and they missed seeing me around. I was appreciative that they were offering me comfort, but I felt too much like an outsider to go back to the way things were.

Part of me really wished Tu Lan were still with me. The longer I was alone, the more I thought about the man that had once been there my whole childhood. I missed him. I worried about him. He had sacrificed so much for me. If there was anyone in the Fire Nation I believed to be truly good it would be him. I hoped more than anything he was healing and restoring his ability to walk.

A knock suddenly sounded on my door. I placed the water I had been bending back in the bowl beside me. I was practicing heating the liquid again. It was finally becoming second nature to me. Standing from my table, I hesitated to open the door. I wasn't sure who was on the other side.

Thankfully, I didn't have to ask.

"Amara. It's Zuko. Can I come in?"

I felt my heart flutter. It always did when I heard Zuko's voice. Despite our differences, I still loved him. I finally understood love a lot more than before. Zuko was someone that made me happy, and feel safe. He was someone I enjoyed being with. The thought of leaving him made me dread the day I would have to say goodbye.

I loved him… but I knew when I found my family I would have to leave him…

Walking over, I opened the door to see him standing on the other side with some dinner on a tray. My heart warmed when his gold eyes met my gaze. "Uncle wanted me to let you know the crew is having food and music up on deck. I brought your dinner down, but if you want to go—"

I gave a small smile, cutting him off. "Thanks. I'll just eat here…" I went to take the tray, but then I realized there were two plates.

He noticed my eyes on the second plate and dropped his gaze with flushed cheeks. "Mind if I join you? I'm trying to avoid Uncle. I hate music night."

I liked the idea of eating with Zuko a lot. I nodded. "Sure. I… could use company." I stepped aside and he came in. I shut the door behind and joined him at the low table. He handed me a plate of rice and fish. I took it with a small thanks.

"You know," Zuko said softly. "You really don't have to hide down here. No one is mad at you. They're all actually worried. If anything, I'm on everyone's bad side for upsetting you."

I moved my fish around with my chopsticks. I frowned as I thought about the men I had come to know during my time on the ship. "I know they're worried," I spoke softly. "But it's better this way… one day, I'll be leaving you all anyway."

He sighed. He stared down at his own food, saddened by the thought. He moved his food around in a similar way to how I had been.

I tried to change the subject. I didn't really want the both of us to be upset at the thought of a future that wasn't happening yet. "So… I never really asked you, but Iroh told me that you know how to fight with swords… he said you used them to help the Avatar escape Zhao the other week. Who taught you how to do that?"

He was surprised by my question. His gaze then moved to the flaming candle on my table as he fell into memories of happier times. "I was around ten. A man named Piandao came to the palace to train me upon my father's request. I wasn't the best firebender, so my dad wanted me to learn other skills to build my strength. Master Piandao taught me for a few weeks, and then gifted me with the broadswords I still have. I promised him I would keep practicing, and I did. It's good to know another skill in the event I can't firebend."

His story made me even more curious. "Can… I see them… your broadswords?"

He was intrigued that I was interested. He smiled. "Sure. But only if you eat… I know you've been skipping meals. I don't want you sick."

I did as he asked. Once we were done with our meals, we left our plates in my room and went next door to his. I rarely went into Zuko's room. I always felt like I was invading his space doing so… breaking some rule. But he was quick to welcome me in, and I followed him. His room was set similar to my own, although he definitely had less decor and a lot more red. There were no floral patterns like in my space. His swords seemed to be the decor, crossing one another on holders bolted to the wall.

Zuko walked over to the curved broadswords above his low table and pulled one off the wall. He stepped over to show it to me up close. "They're pretty strong. Made from steel."

I touched the flat of the blade. It was cool and smooth to the touch. "I wonder if the Water Tribe uses swords like this?"

Zuko pondered over my words. "I haven't seen any steel ones during my interactions with Water Tribe people… mostly just wood, bone, and stone…"

I tried to picture his description in my head. Then I grimaced. "Bone?"

He smirked. "Not human bone. I think they commonly use whale teeth and other animal parts. At least the South Pole. I'm not sure about the North Pole. I've never been there before."

I was surprised. "Really?"

He nodded. "It's hard to get into the North Pole… they are a strong tribe. They have massive walls that border their city. Naval fleets have tried to break in and failed."

I frowned. "So… not like my mother's people…"

Zuko lowered the sword. "Your mother's people had it pretty rough compared to the North… they are further from the Earth Kingdom so their defense line is much weaker. The Fire Nation had easy access to them…"

As he said this, I crossed my arms feeling saddened by this. My mother's people had no protection...

He tried to distract me again, seeing my mood was somber. "Want to hold it?"

I saw him move the sword towards me. I gave a small smile and nodded.

"Just be careful… It's pretty sharp."

I took the handle carefully. As soon as I did, I felt the weight of the sword and almost dropped it. Zuko caught my arm quickly when he heard me gasp.

"And heavy," he added, a little too late. "Guess I'm just used to them."

"Well… water and fire are pretty lightweight so I guess I don't have much muscle," I muttered. "If I were an earthbender, that might be a different story." I managed to lift the sword again, this time using two hands which helped. "But then I'd almost be the Avatar at that point. And two elements are hard enough to learn as it is."

Zuko smirked. "Well, I never got any information about your grandpa, so maybe he was an earthbender. Your cousin Sokka seems to have a hard head so you could all be part Earth Nation too."

At the mention of my cousin again, I handed the sword back to Zuko and looked at him with question. "So… Katara is a waterbender… is Sokka?"

He put the sword back on the wall as he answered. "No. Not from what I've seen. But he's pretty good with weapons… he did knock me pretty hard with a boomerang the first time I met him."

I was puzzled. "A boomerang? What's that?"

Zuko stepped back from the swords and turned to me again. He rubbed the back of his neck. "Uh… how do I explain? It's like this piece of wood that's curved a specific way. When you throw the weapon it comes back. Unless it hits your opponent."

"So… Sokka's like a warrior then?"

Zuko rolled his eyes. "A very inexperienced warrior from what I gather."

I smiled slightly. "But he still hit you… Unless you're bad at dodging?"

Zuko looked at me with embarrassment. "It was a sneak attack!"

I giggled. "Sure. I believe you."

He stepped over to me. "So you want to tease me, huh? Remind me again what a cat-owl sounds like?"

I blushed. I stopped smiling and instead cringed. "Why? So you can tease me?"

He smirked. "Exactly. I could use a good laugh too."

I huffed and went to leave. I argued, "I do the noise just fine! Iroh said so! You're just tone deaf or something!"

He grabbed my arm to stop my retreat, and turned me back to face him. His hand suddenly brushed a strand of hair back from my cheek. He frowned as his thoughts fell away. "I'll never forget the first time you made me laugh. It wasn't because you made the sound wrong. It was because you looked like you were in such deep concentration when you did. Your face looked so serious, I couldn't stop myself. I think when I hear a cat-owl from now on, I'll always picture you."

My cheeks burned from his touch. My heart fluttered faster than ever.

He moved forward suddenly, and his lips pressed to my own. I was shocked at first, but then I felt my body fill with peace. I shut my eyes as his flesh moved against my own. My second kiss… this time, I tried to kiss him back. Our breaths mixed. His hand cupped my cheek, his warmth only making me want to stay the way we were longer. I grabbed his arms to keep me steady as I felt my mind blur.

I would miss this so much when I left Zuko… the heart flutters… the peace… the comfort… for a moment, I wished there was no war. I wished Zuko and I could just stay like this forever.

He pulled away for a moment, whispering softly, "I never imagined I'd fall in love… you're just not like other Fire Nation girls I've met. I care so much about you. The thought of you not being with me hurts so much. But… I know I have to let you go one day…"

My eyes burned. I stared up into his amazing golden orbs which seemed to shimmer in the firelight. "Until then… I'm glad I can have moments like this with you. I've heard stories about falling in love, but I've never gotten to see it with my own eyes. I get to actually experience it. Thanks… for everything, Zuko…"

He brushed his thumb on my cheek. He leaned forward again and kissed me once more. This time I was quick to respond. I felt like I was finally figuring it out at least. I shut my eyes, accepting the touch of his lips and wishing we could just freeze the moment.

A knock on the door suddenly sounded. We both pulled away, our breathing heavy as we tried to fill our lungs again with air. Both of us were blushing, but I could tell Zuko had enjoyed the moment as much as I had.

The knock sounded again. Zuko let out a sigh. He brushed his thumb on my cheek again. "Uncle… he probably wants to harass me into music night again." He pulled his hand away.

My heart was still trying to return to normal. I turned away from the door to hide my red face from Iroh. I managed to say softly to Zuko, "Tell him you're giving me company… he'll leave you alone then."

"I think hiding your face is going to cause suspicion."

I crossed my arms. "You kissed me… I can't help that I'm blushing."

He chuckled. He then stepped over to the door, while I tried to compose myself. I took a few breaths to try and calm my heart more. Once I felt the heat cool within me, I looked over to see Zuko open his door.

He had composed himself in his own flustered state and snapped at Iroh who stood in the doorway, "For the last time, I'm not playing the Tsungi Horn."

Iroh held a solemn look. His eyes moved from Zuko to me and back to his nephew. "No, it's about our plans. There's a bit of a problem."

Iroh stepped in with a frown. Someone followed him in from behind. My once fluttering heart stopped. My once burning body froze.

No… why…

Zhao stepped into the room, a grin on his face as he took in the horror on the expressions of Zuko and I. Zuko quickly stepped back to put himself between me and Zhao.

"What are you doing here?!"

Zhao smirked. "I'm taking your crew."

Zuko was furious. "What?!"

He explained. "I've recruited them for a little expedition to the North Pole."

Zuko looked over at Iroh for confirmation. I did as well. Iroh seemed greatly upset.

"Uncle, is that true?"

Iroh let out a heavy sigh. "I'm afraid so. He's taking everyone…" His fists clenched at the last word. As I saw the pain in his expression, I understood what he was saying.

Zhao stepped closer to Zuko. "Sorry you won't be there to watch me capture the Avatar. But I can't have you getting in my way again."

Zuko suddenly charged at Zhao in anger, but Iroh rushed in his path to stop him from tackling the arrogant admiral. As Iroh held Zuko back to try and calm him, Zhao glanced my way for a moment. I saw victory in his gaze. Part of me expected to feel fear as I realized he had come to take me. However, the fear did not come. I was angry. As I stared into his gold eyes, I felt my blood boil.

He looked away from me and casually walked over to inspect the curved broadswords on the wall that Zuko had just shown me. I saw Zuko from the corner of my eye go stiff.

Zhao grabbed one off the wall and inspected it. "I didn't know you were skilled with broadswords, Prince Zuko."

Zuko's voice wavered slightly. He lied. "I'm not. They're antiques. Just decorative."

Zhao didn't seem to believe him. "Have you heard of the Blue Spirit, General Iroh?"

Iroh kept composed, but I could hear tension in his voice. "Just rumors. I don't think he is real."

Zhao sneered. "He's real all right. He's a criminal; an enemy of the Fire Nation." He put the sword back on the wall. "But I have a feeling that justice will catch up with him soon."

Iroh met my gaze briefly, and then his head hung as he weighed heavy with loss. He felt he had failed me. I did not blame him though. I knew whatever was about to happen was out of his control. I knew if Iroh tried to stop Zhao, he would most likely be arrested. I didn't blame Iroh. There was only one person I blamed. The hate only grew within me.

"General Iroh, the offer to join my mission still stands if you change your mind."

Iroh let out a heavy breath and hung his head more. "I cannot abandon Prince Zuko… As much as I wish to come, I must stay."

Zhao smirked again. "Family is definitely important during these trying times." He turned his gaze back to me. "I have come to learn that over the weeks I have been separated from my dear sister."

Zuko snapped, "Leave her out of this!"

Zhao sighed. "Prince Zuko… I'm afraid I cannot do that. As of today, Amara is being returned to my care. General Iroh has agreed to release her back to me." His eyes moved over to Iroh with composure. "Just as promised, General Iroh, she will have much finer arrangements than before."

Zuko was still being restrained by Iroh. "Uncle… What is he saying?!"

Zhao answered. "Don't blame your uncle. He is an honorable man. He knows defying my orders would be treason." He stepped towards me. I stepped back again. "I have been granted official permission from Fire Lord Ozai to take you on my ship, Amara. You will do well to surrender yourself over."

My fists clenched. My heart pounded hard. I narrowed my eyes.

"No!" Zuko jerked from Iroh and grabbed Zhao by his arms, suddenly pushing him back and shoving him against the wall. "There's no way my father would do that unless you lied to him about her!"

Zhao remained composed. He looked satisfied that he had evoked Zuko's fury. "I may have stretched the truth a tad. I told him a teenage Water Tribe girl was taken in by you and your uncle. I informed him that this was a huge distraction for you and your mission, especially because you were starting to develop an affection towards the girl. He agreed this would not do and gave me permission to remove her from your care to my own."

Zuko growled. "You bastard! You lied to save your face! You didn't tell him she was your sister! I'll tell him myself! You'll pay!"

Zhao shoved him off. Iroh remained silent, his head hung and tears on his face.

I started to weigh my options.

"Will I?" Zhao scoffed. "Go ahead and tell your daddy. By the time you do I'll have captured the Avatar, destroyed the Northern Water Tribe, and gained more honor than any General out there. My father's crimes will mean nothing once his son becomes a Fire Nation legend."

Zuko shook his head. He stepped back between Zhao and I. "I won't allow you to do this! You want her, then you'll have to go through me."

"Prince Zuko," Iroh spoke. "You must stand down. You cannot defy your father's order. It is treason. This is out of our control."

Zuko snapped at Iroh, "How can you just stand there and let this happen?! You promised to protect her! You're the Fire Lord's brother! Do something!"

Iroh shut his eyes tight. "I have no authority over Ozai's orders, Zuko… If I did, I would've never allowed him to banish you. This is out of my hands."

Zhao spoke again. "Iroh understands that he will be arrested for treason if he gets in my way. Which you are about to be if you don't move!"

Zuko stepped back enough to completely block me. I felt tears fall as I knew what was about to happen. I knew what I had to do. I pictured Zuko and Iroh being arrested for trying to save me. I remembered Tu Lan being hurt for trying to save me. I would not let anyone else be hurt or imprisoned because of me.

"Hand her to me!" Zhao ordered again. "I will attack you!"

"Go ahead! Fight me! Lock me up! I'm already a traitor as you said! This banished prince isn't letting you touch her!"

Zhao shouted again, "This is your last warning, Prince Zuko! You will be locked in a cell if you do not step aside! Is that what you want?!"

Zuko stayed strong. "Better me than her!"

I finally reacted. I grabbed the back of Zuko's shirt. "Stop," I begged. "Please stop, Zuko."

Zuko was stunned. He moved so he could look at me. I met his golden eyes with agony. "Zuko… Please… Stop angering him… No matter what you say, you can't stop him. He won't give up… He was never going to give up. I won't let you get arrested because of me. You have to finish your mission."

He was stunned. "Amara… that doesn't mat—"

I interrupted. I moved my hand to his arm to offer him comfort. My voice thankfully stayed strong. "It's okay… I'll be okay."

He grabbed my arms with despair. "No. You know what he'll do to you. He'll hurt you, Amara."

Zhao spoke again. "I have promised General Iroh that Amara will have a much better life than before. I will not treat her so harshly. I have seen the error of my ways. She will be well cared for."

I didn't believe Zhao. It didn't matter anyway. There was only one way I was going with that monster again. He was going to have to knock me unconscious or kill me. Because this time, I wasn't going down without a fight.

I pushed away from Zuko, and turned to Zhao. I spoke to him for the first time since his arrival. "I never ask you for anything… Just this one time… Can you just let me have a moment to say good-bye?"

Zhao rolled his eyes. "So dramatic. But fine. I suppose I can grant that small bit of kindness. I'll be in the hall. But you come out alone when you're done. I don't want Prince Zuko getting any ideas." He turned on his heel and left. He shut the door behind. I knew he was waiting on the other side.

Silence fell in the room. The air was heavy. Iroh stepped over finally. He fell to his knees before me. I was shocked by his action. "Amara… I have failed you." He spoke, hanging his head in agony. "I tried to protect you so much, but in the end I was forced to choose between you and Zuko… I am-"

I interrupted. "Iroh… please stand… You didn't fail me," I whispered. "This is what we agreed on… besides… You aren't handing me over to Zhao. No one is. I'm going willingly"

He looked at me with sorrow. I grabbed his arm and pulled him up.

"I will never blame you for your decision, Iroh... I'm glad you didn't anger Zhao. I want you to take care of Zuko, and keep helping him. He needs you now that the crew will be gone," I whispered. "The battle isn't over yet. The Avatar is still free, so Zuko still has his mission." I felt tears escape me. "I owe you so much for the freedom I was granted. I will always be grateful for your acceptance of me. You taught me how to be brave."

Zuko spoke up. "Amara… Stop talking like this is the end… What are you planning?"

I looked over at Zuko. I gave him a small smile. "Don't worry… I'm not crazy. I know what I'm doing. Please... stay here when I leave, Zuko. I don't want you to get hurt."

He stepped over and hugged me tight, desperate to hold on to me. "Amara… please… we can figure this out. I don't want you to suffer under his hand again."

Tears fell in greater frequency as I took in his warmth. I wished I could stay in his arms forever. "For the first time in sixteen years I tasted freedom... I learned how to be happy. How to smile. How to trust. I got to see the world and its beauty." I swallowed. "Zuko… thank you… for everything. You taught me so much. I'll treasure every moment."

He hugged me tighter. "Amara… I can't let you do this."

"You have to," I said softly. "Please stay here… for me… It's going to be okay… but… if you do see my family again, tell them I really wanted to meet them…" I hugged him back tightly, knowing this would probably be the last time I could. "I can say for certain now, I love you, Prince Zuko."

He choked back a sob. "I… will always love you… Always, Amara…"

I shut my eyes hard. I tightened my fists. Determination flowed through me. "But who knows," I whispered. "If I can kill him, then maybe your crew will stay and all will be okay."

Zuko went tense in shock from my words.

I pulled from his arms. I looked over at Iroh who was watching me with understanding. "Please… stay in here so you both don't get in trouble. This is between me and Zhao."

Iroh gave me a nod. His eyes watered, but he did not stop me. "You have become so strong, Amara… I am so proud."

I gave Iroh a sad smile. I met Zuko's gaze again.

"Amara…" He stepped forward. His eyes were watering. He was desperate. "He'll kill you… you can't fight him alone… please… let me help you…"

Shaking my head, I backed up and reached for the door. "Zuko… you've done so much for me… I can't ask for anything else but that you stay here and focus on your mission. Please, don't go against Zhao for me… this is a family matter I have to deal with."

He shook his head. He wanted to argue. However, he didn't want to control me. I could see his confliction.

"Just remember one thing, Zuko…" Tears fell down my cheeks but I kept my voice composed. "The sound of a cat-owl… I'm right… It is definitely Mew-hoo. Mew-hoo."

I opened the door then and stepped out into the hallway. I shut it behind as I moved forward. I wiped my eyes, took a deep breath, and then turned towards the monster.

Zhao stood in the hall like he said he would. He smirked. From the torch light he looked like a demon. "I'm glad to see everyone is cooperating tonight. Good. We don't have time to deal with disobedience."

He grabbed my arm hard and moved me through the ship. He was taking me to the ramp so he could force me off. As he jerked me along, I remained quiet. I contemplated my next move. I knew once I got outside, I would have water to aid me in my desires.

I never imagined in my life I would actually try to kill Zhao. I'd dreamed of doing it of course, but I had never attempted such an act. Tonight, I would try to do what I had desired for so long. Zhao was planning on attacking the Water Tribe. Zhao was planning on going after the Avatar and my family. He was threatening my mother's people, and I would stay silent no more.

Third Person POV

"Let me through, Uncle!"

"Prince Zuko… I'm sorry. But we must stand down."

Zuko was furious with his Uncle. He shot fire at the floor in frustration. Iroh stayed in his position in front of the door. He didn't blame the young prince for being angry with him though. He was angry with himself as well. When Zhao had arrived to inform him about taking the crew, Iroh was heartbroken but knew he wouldn't be able to defy him. When Zhao told Iroh he would be taking Amara as well though, Iroh immediately protested.

"I will not allow this, Admiral Zhao! You have hurt that girl enough!"

Zhao remained composed as he spoke to Iroh on deck. They were alone as the crew went to go pack their things to leave. "General Iroh. I understand your concerns. However, this is a direct order from Fire Lord Ozai. Would you really defy his orders?"

Iroh stood straight. "I am not certain what you told my brother to get him on your side, but I promised Amara that I would protect her. I will not break that promise."

Zhao laughed. "Promises are a waste of breath. You probably promised you'd protect Zuko as well." He smirked. "Would be unfortunate if this act of defiance puts him in danger."

Iroh narrowed his eyes. "Are you threatening me, Admiral Zhao?"

"I'm only trying to be reasonable. If you hand over Amara to me willingly, I will go in peace. Defy me though, and I will have you and Prince Zuko arrested for treason. Either way, Amara is coming with me. So it would be best if you cooperate for your nephew's sake."

A blast of fire shot from both of Iroh's fists towards the steel deck. Steam came out of his nose as well. He could not attack Zhao without facing criminal charges, but he wanted to. He glared at Zhao with spite.

"Of course… if you are concerned about Amara, you can leave Zuko here and join me on my mission. Then you can see for yourself that I am a man of my word and will take care of the girl. But that would be breaking your promise to Prince Zuko… which promise is more important to you?"

Iroh shut his eyes tightly. He was torn. Zhao had him right where he wanted him. He knew Amara would suffer if he yielded. But if he did not, then Zuko would be imprisoned and lose everything. He could not bear his nephew in a cage. And he had to fulfill Amara's wishes. "I cannot abandon Prince Zuko…"

Zhao sighed. "No. You can't. Just as I can't abandon my sister." He stepped up to Iroh, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Do not worry, General Iroh. I will give Amara a much better life than the one she had. Rest assured that I have seen the error of my ways. I only wish to make her happy as well."

Iroh would never forgive himself for allowing Amara to go back to that horrible man. Despite being a retired General and brother to the Fire Lord, he felt for the first time that he had no control over what was happening. But he knew he had to let Amara go. Because he had made a promise to her, and he would not break it.

He recalled the day after they had dinner with Zhao at the stronghold prison. Zuko was still sleeping from his late night rescue of the Avatar. He had fallen asleep in Amara's room beside her. Amara had left the room to give Zuko peace. She was feeling better and wanted to go up on deck for some fresh air. She had found Iroh by the railing, and spoke to him for a little bit about the events of the previous day. Then she spoke about her desires.

"Iroh… can you make me a promise?"

Iroh glanced over at the teenage girl with concern. He could see she was nervous about saying something. "What would that be?"

She let out a deep breath. "Zuko was almost arrested yesterday because of me… he was willing to give up his freedom to protect me. I… don't want him to. If he was hurt because of me, I'd never forgive myself… knowing Tu Lan was injured trying to protect me hurts my heart everyday. If Zuko was hurt in such a way or even killed by Zhao, I would never forgive myself." She was quiet for a moment. Her eyes stared at the water with resolve. "If Zhao does come for me again… if he threatens to imprison Zuko… promise me that you will hand me over to him..."

Iroh was horrified. "Amara… why would you ask me to do such a cruel thing? I saved you from Zhao so you would never suffer by his hand again. I wouldn't be able to forgive myself for allowing that man to hurt you once more."

She frowned. "As much as I hate to admit it, he's my brother, Iroh… while I appreciate your guardianship during the time I've been with you, I know I'm going to have to face him again. When I do, I don't want anyone else to be penalized because of me." She fiddled with her mother's necklace. "Besides… I'm going to take charge of my own life now. Zhao's not getting me so easily. Next time I see him, I'm going to fight him... If I succeed, I'll finally end the monster that took away so much from me. If I fail, I don't want you or Zuko to see… the moment I attack Zhao with my dual bending, he'll definitely want me dead. If I die, I only want you and Zuko to remember me as I am now. Alive. Happy. Free." She looked at Iroh again who was in tears. "Promise me you'll let me have my moment of revenge."

Iroh stepped forward and hugged her close. He wanted to tell her no a million times over, but he could hear the determination in her voice. "If I were truly your father, I would stop you. But I am not. I can only offer you my words of comfort. You don't have to face Zhao at all. I can send you somewhere else where you will be safe. I have connections in the Earth Kingdom. People who can protect you. Then this promise will never have to happen."

Amara breathed heavily. "It won't matter... He'll find me. If I'm ever going to be free from that man, it's by his death or my own…"

Iroh's heart was broken in two. He shut his eyes and prayed to the spirits that Amara would be okay. He wanted to stop her, but he had heard the determination in her voice. He knew this was Amara's battle…

Amara POV

We headed down the ramp of Zuko's ship which was dropped at the pier on the Earth Kingdom coast. I let him pull me along, preparing myself for my battle. I wanted him to believe he had won for a moment. I wanted him to think he had my full submission. Then when he wasn't expecting it, I would attack.

Zhao's ship was about half a mile from Zuko's. He made camp on the coast, so as we came over the rocky hill, I was shocked when I saw his fleet. There had to be at least thirty naval ships, if not more. I was horrified. The Water Tribe wouldn't be able to defeat that many. I prayed the Avatar would be able to stop Zhao if I could not.

As we reached the rocky shore, I saw Zhao's men in the distance. They were carrying boxes, sharpening weapons, and preparing for the journey to the North Pole.

"What's your plan with me?" I asked softly. "Are you throwing me in a cage again while you go destroy my mother's people?"

Zhao tightened his grip. He didn't like the boldness in my tone. He spoke with authority. "Of course not. I can't trust you on your own now that I know you're a firebender. You will be locked in a room on my vessel."

A soldier in armor suddenly came forward. "Admiral Zhao. We've made room for the komodo-rhinos from Prince Zuko's ship on Captain Hu's vessel."

"Excellent, Lieutenant Ra," Zhao spoke. He released my arm, believing I would stay put. "And what of the quarters for the crew?"

As the man spoke to Zhao, I smirked. He had made his mistake letting me go.

My heart pounded. My breathing was even. I stepped back slightly. My hand moved to the necklace I wore and I shut my eyes. I felt the cool stone against my fingers. Mom… Tu Lan... I don't know if I'm strong enough, but I have to try. This is for you.

As I thought about all the pain and damage Zhao had caused me and the ones I loved, I felt my determination only grow. I knew killing was wrong... but Zhao deserved to die. He was trying to imprison me again. He was trying to take away Zuko's happiness too; I would not allow that.

You're going to get what you deserve, Zhao! I'm done being hurt by you!

Turning quickly, I raced to the coast a few yards away. Zhao was still distracted as I reached the lapping water. Without hesitation, I grabbed a large mass of the liquid and sent the rushing stream flying at Zhao. The water smacked against him, hitting him in the back hard. He gasped and was flung forward, hitting the ground on his stomach. As he was down, I grabbed more water and froze it into icicles. Zhao rolled just as my projectiles hit the ground where he had been. Ice shattered everywhere. The soldier who stood by was stunned by my sudden attack. He wasn't sure what to do. I could hear shouts as other soldiers saw the attack and were rushing over.

Zhao was on his feet again, soaked and in shock.

"WHAT?! YOU'RE A WATERBENDER?!"

Zhao was irate as he breathed heavily and stared at me with fury.

My determination grew. I smirked. "And a firebender."

I threw a blast of fire at Zhao. While my skills were novice, I knew having two elements would be an advantage in some ways. My fire almost hit him, but he jerked out of the way to dodge the flames. His eyes stared at me as if he were seeing me for the first time.

His men went to rush forward to aid him. He quickly told them to stop. "Stand down! I can handle this! This is between me and the girl!"

As his men stepped back, Zhao stood straight and spoke to me with rage. "How is this possible? How can you bend two elements?!"

I stepped back so I was closer to the water. "I'm the daughter of a firebender and a waterbender. Does it really surprise you that much?"

He grit his teeth. "How long have you known about this?!"

I felt for the water, ready to attack again. "A long time. Before you killed my mom."

He snarled. "So what? You plan to fight me? To try and escape?"

I frowned. My eyes narrowed and I grabbed a stream of water pulling it in front of me. "I'm not going to escape you anymore… I know if I do you'll just keep coming after me." I heated the water as I held it before me. I saw the liquid bubble and steam. Tears burned in my eyes as the hate radiated through me. "Tonight, I'll end you!"

I shot the water at Zhao. He went to dodge, but a small sliver of it hit his cheek. He screamed in pain and covered the spot on his cheekbone where my water scalded him. His eyes stared at me with horror. He quickly went on the offense and started to punch his hands to throw fire at me. I used the skills Iroh and Zuko had taught me, and redirected the fire around me. As I shot my own fire, Zhao started to run towards me and jumped over my flames. He kicked fire at me with his feet, and I brought water up quickly to block the attack.

He landed in front of me, and I could see from the light of the moon that he wanted to murder me in that moment. I had defied him. I had taken him off guard. I had embarrassed him in front of his men. He wanted me dead as much as I wanted him dead.

"You freak! What was that?! How did you make the water hot like that?!"

He threw another punch of fire at me. At this point I was backed up so water covered my shoes. The sensation wasn't pleasant, but I stayed focused as I blocked his fire more with walls of water.

"You always said I was a half-breed," I snapped. My heart pounded loudly. I felt sweat as I used my energy to keep blocking his fire punches. "Half Water and half fire… Both are pretty useful combined together, don't you think?!"

He growled. He rushed at me to grab me, but I brought up water between the both of us and shoved him back with my wave. He flew backward and hit the muddy and rocky shore, sliding slightly. He moved to his feet again. His topknot dripped and he was covered in mud. I shot another blast of fire, and he caught my flames, spun, and sent them back to me. I brought water up again, dousing the fire.

He snapped, "So this is how you treat me after being so generous? You want to kill me?"

I stepped out of the water, bringing a stream along with me. As the water hovered again, and I saw the steam form from the heat, I spoke to him with spite. "Generous?! You killed my mother! You sent a bounty hunter after me and caused Tu Lan to be injured! You won't stop coming after me! Killing you is the only way I can truly be free!"

I shot the water at him again. This time, he shot a blast of flames that met my attack and caused my water to be pushed back. As I shoved the water against his blast, and he shoved back with his stream of flames, I knew one of us would get tired and be hit. I had a feeling that would be me since I wasn't as trained as Zhao. I tried to think quickly of my next move.

Zhao's fire grew closer as he pushed harder on my stream. I released my hold quickly and rushed out of range. His fire shot past me towards the sea.

Catching myself, I turned again and shot more fire at Zhao with both of my hands. Zhao managed to part my blast, and then rushed towards me again. I grabbed water from beside me and threw it at him as he charged. He jumped to the right, and I tried to shoot another blast of fire at him with my other hand. He dodged again moving to the left.

I moved a sheet of water across the shore as he charged at me, and then froze it into ice. He stepped on the surface and slipped, falling on his back and causing the ice to crack. As he was down again, I brought more water from the sea, heating it once again. I went to fling it down on him to burn him.

Zhao's eyes widened in terror as he realized he was about to lose. "Stop her!"

One of his men shot a blast of fire at my attack from the side to stop it from hitting the fallen Admiral. As my water was shielded, I felt another blast of heat come my way from one of his other men. I had no choice but to stop my attack and stumble back to avoid the fire.

As I was distracted, Zhao managed to get to his feet again. He shot a blast of fire at me once he did. I gasped, trying to block the fire with my hands quickly. As I tried to catch the blast, the strength behind it caused me to stumble back and fall.

I hit the muddy earth hard, water lapping under me. I tried to get to my feet, but Zhao suddenly was on me. His hands grabbed my shoulders and he shoved me into the mud pinning me down. I was exhausted, and I knew at that moment I had failed. Zhao was never going to let me win. The coward just had to call for backup in the end. But I knew I had gotten a hit at him, despite my inability to kill him, and this honestly satisfied me.

Zhao was sure to have a nasty burn starting to form on his left cheek. I hoped it would scar.

Even in the dark, with only the moon as light, I could tell Zhao's eyes held nothing but malice. I knew he wanted me dead. I had fought hard. I had tried. That was all I could do.

He breathed heavily, angry and tired from our fight. He managed to speak. "It was a noble effort… but you didn't really think you could kill me, did you?"

I tried to kick him off, but he moved his leg over my knees to hold me down. I managed to shoot a burst of fire at him with my hand. It hit his chest, but his thick armor protected him. He moved his hands quickly to my throat. I gasped as my airway was tightened. He was going to choke me. Was this how my mom died? Tears fell down my cheeks.

I tried mom… I knew I probably wasn't going to win, but at least I tried…

"I should end you for what you just did," he hissed.

"Go on," I choked out. "Kill me… I know you've wanted to since the day I was born."

He tightened his grip on my throat. I gasped as my air was next to nothing. "Is that what you want, Amara? To die?"

I managed to smile through the pain. I managed to choke out, "You're… giving me… a choice? That might… be the nicest gesture… from you… ever..."

His eyes which were fire themselves, only narrowed more. "I see freedom has made you forget who's in control. I'm going to have to destroy this new side of you."

I grabbed his wrists as he tightened his grip more. It felt like he was going to pull my head off. I tried to heat my hands up, but my lack of breath made it hard to firebend. Instead, I dug my fingernails hard into his wrist. He didn't react. I finally choked out, "Just kill me! Get it over with!"

He smirked. "Amara… Dear Amara… As much as your defiance has caused me great disappointment in you, I would never kill my sister. I mean, why would I do that? Then you'd be free from me forever. And I can't just let you go."

He tightened his grip one last time. My air cut off. Black dots formed in my vision. My senses faded. All I could think at that moment was that Zuko was still free…

At least my sacrifice would not be in vain.

Darkness took me then...

Third Person POV

Zuko was heartbroken. He sat in Amara's room, his hand gripping one of her blue ribbons tightly. Iroh stood at the door with sadness.

"I managed to speak to Ju… he was called to Zhao's camp in the middle of packing his things. There was a battle between Amara and Zhao…"

Zuko shut his eyes hard. Tears fell. "Is she…?" He couldn't even get the word out. He couldn't think of Amara being dead.

Iroh sighed. "Amara is alive… she almost won from what I hear, but Zhao's men interfered at the last minute to stop her. Ju says she is unconscious… he treated Zhao for a severe burn on his face. He said it will definitely scar. Seems Amara got a hit at him at least…"

Zuko opened his eyes again and stared at the ribbon once more. "That man deserves so much more than a scar." Zuko stood from the table and looked at his uncle with fury. "I have to stop that monster! I have to do something! I can't just sit here!"

Iroh let out a heavy breath. "Prince Zuko… I want nothing more than to be on that ship to watch over Amara, but Zhao has made it clear you are forbidden to join his fleet. I cannot abandon you."

Zuko growled and started to pace the room. Tears slid down his cheeks. "I'm going to lose it all! He's going to take away everything! If he captures the Avatar before me, I'll lose my chance at going home and freeing Amara! I have to stop him somehow! I have to beat him!"

Iroh let Zuko finish his shouting. He kept composed as he spoke again. "Yes. You do. There is a way, Prince Zuko."

Zuko stopped pacing. He looked at his Uncle with bewilderment. "What? You have an idea?"

"Yes… it's risky, but it will solve our issues. You'll be able to get to the North Pole, and I will be able to watch over Amara."

"How?"

His uncle stepped over, placing a hand on his shoulder. "There is some extra armor in the cargo hold. You will be in disguise on Zhao's ship. I will inform him that you asked me to go with the fleet due to your concerns for Amara, and that you have promised to remain on your ship and wait for my return. I'm hoping he will be more focused on the battle ahead and not suspect. Once we get to the North Pole, you can sneak on land and search for the Avatar. As you search, I will help Amara escape her holding."

"Uncle… what if Zhao does suspect?"

Iroh gave a small smile. "I can be convincing. Do not worry about Zhao. Focus on staying hidden. We will go in the morning after we've both had some rest. Zhao's fleet is set to depart by midday so that will give us plenty of time to sneak you on board."

Zuko felt relief. "Okay… that sounds like a plan. And then once we're on board…You'll tell me where Amara is, right?"

Iroh nodded. "I will find where she's being held and inform you. But it would be best to only visit her at night. If you're caught—"

Zuko nodded. "I know… I'll be careful. I just… I want to see her. Make sure she's okay."

"She will be… Zhao did not kill her today. This makes me believe he will keep her alive just as he did in the past… he is a sick man, and he finds pleasure in his control over her. She will survive this."

Zuko's fists tightened. "Once I restore my honor, I'm going to make that monster pay for everything he's done to her."

Iroh sighed. "As much as I am against bloodshed in my retired state, Zhao is someone that I hope meets his end very soon." He turned and stepped to the door. "I'm going to take a walk… clear my head before this long journey… you should come. The air will do you good. If you're going to be disguised as a soldier for a few days, you will want a moment of peace."

Zuko shook his head. "No… I'm going to stay here. Get some stuff ready for the journey."

Iroh nodded. "Very well… just try not to stress too much, Prince Zuko… once I join Zhao, I'll be sure Amara is okay. He won't hurt her while I'm there."

Zuko nodded. However, he whispered, "We should've never let her go..."

Iroh frowned and looked back at Zuko with dismay. "I had to let her go… I made her a promise… Amara asked me to keep you from interfering so you wouldn't be hurt by Zhao. This was her way of protecting you…"

He shut his eyes and grit his teeth as more tears threatened to fall. "I should be the one protecting her… she's hurt now… he might hurt her worse..."

"She will be okay… She is already being watched over. Physician Ju and our friend Jing are on the vessel with her, keeping an eye on things. By tomorrow, I will check on her as well. Just try and get some rest. It's all going to work out."

Zuko opened his eyes and watched as his uncle left the room. Once Iroh shut the door, Zuko sighed and sat back at the table. He stared at the parchments Amara had written on earlier that day. He picked up one of the papers and stared at the shaky characters that she had been practicing. Her writing had improved greatly. She had learned so much during her time with Zuko and his uncle. Would it all have been for nothing? Would Amara be Zhao's captive again forever?

Zuko scowled. No! He wouldn't allow it!

He looked at the ribbon again that he was still clutching in his other hand. I'll save you… Just stay strong… I won't let him cage you again… I'll find the Avatar and then set you free, Amara… we'll escape that monster somehow… Wait for me… I'm just a step behind you…

A few moments later, Zuko was in his room and had packed a bag with his blue spirit mask, some clothes, and his coat for the freezing weather he would soon endure. He had managed to tie Amara's ribbon far enough up his arm so he could hide it under the armor he would soon be wearing.

He was ready. He was determined to stop Zhao from taking away his happiness.

While Zuko remained on the ship preparing for the journey, Iroh was walking up a rocky hill in deep thought. The pier and town could be seen in the distance, so he had not walked very far. He did not plan to, because he did not want to leave Zuko for long. The fresh air was just helping him calm his nerves.

Iroh was not certain what would happen in the coming days, but he knew one thing for sure: He would do all he could to make sure Zhao did not cause further harm to Amara. And once they reached the North Pole, he would have Jing and Ju help Amara sneak off the ship so she could get into the city and find her family. Her leaving would hurt both Zuko and him, but Amara would be safer with her cousins and the Avatar.

Just as Iroh went to turn back to return to the ship, a loud explosion sounded from behind him. His eyes widened as he turned his gaze towards where his ship and Zuko were.

"NO! ZUKO!"

He was horrified to see fire and smoke coming out of the vessel. He saw in the distance from the light of the moon a familiar bird fly away from the burning ship.

Iroh understood from the sight of the creature that the pirates they had fought with in the past had set blasting jelly to the ship. He also knew without a doubt that Zhao was behind the attack. His fists clenched and tears fell.

A moment later he reached the pier and stood before the burning vessel. He cried and almost fell to his knees as he believed his nephew to be dead. However, just as he thought the worst, he saw something swimming his way from a mass of floating debris. He saw what it was from the light of the moon, and he breathed a deep sigh of relief. His pounding heart calmed and the loss he felt before faded.

He then felt rage fill within him. While killing someone went against Iroh's principles, Zhao's attempt on his nephew's life was unforgivable. Iroh had stood back from saving Amara due to his promise to her, but after this event he would stand back no more. If Zhao didn't die before the end of this expedition, then Iroh would surely be the one to kill him…

A/N… Tense chapter… but don't worry readers... Amara will get another swing at Zhao. Patience.