The Tale of Amara

by faithy waithy

Amara... daughter of two nations. father: A Fire Nation Admiral. mother: an imprisoned waterbender from the South Pole. Her half-brother Zhao sees her as nothing but a mistake. Abused both physically and mentally for sixteen years, Amara begins to lose hope that she will ever know happiness... but then a tea loving man arrives and her life changes forever. Full summary inside

22. Journey

Chapter 22: Journey

When Appa had landed at the stables a good hour after we took off for my first flight, we were greeted by Sokka who looked anxious about something. Once we managed to climb off Appa, he came over to me quickly.

"Amara… Thank goodness you're back!" He grabbed my shoulders. I stared at him with confusion. "I hate to do this but we really need your help. There's a group of komodo-rhinos that were rounded up after the battle. We're trying to get them on a ship to take them to the Earth Kingdom, but none of them will budge. Tiras said you know how to control one of them, so we thought maybe you could get them to listen."

I was bewildered. "Control…?" I frowned. "No… I just know how to calm them and ride them. They kind of do their own thing."

Sokka sighed. "Well they can't stay here. They'll freeze to death. Plus... Some people aren't thrilled about them being in the city still. They want to send the ship off in the next hour, but can't until we get the creatures on board."

I worried about the large animals. I didn't want them to be mistreated just because they were from the Fire Nation. "I'll… help. But, where are they going to be taken? What will happen to them?"

Sokka noticed my worry towards their fate and reassured me. "Master Pakku has taken care of the destination. There's an area at the great city of Ba Sing Se where exotic animals are held. I think he called it a zoo." Sokka shrugged. "From what I hear the komodo-rhinos will be happy there. If we can get the things on the ship that is."

I sighed. "They're probably just scared. They may not look it, but they can be pretty timid animals. I'll… see what I can do."

"Timid?" Katara spoke with disbelief. "Not the ones I've encountered."

I explained. "They aren't exactly the best treated animals when it comes to Fire Nation soldiers. The ones on Zuko's ship had it much better than others in the Fire Lord's army."

Aang looked sad by this. "Poor things…" Then his eyes lit up. "When we defeat the Fire Lord we'll make sure they are all given much better circumstances! We can call it… project rhino!"

I smiled. "Yeah… That's a good plan."

Sokka smacked his forehead. "One project at a time!" He grabbed my hand and started to pull me in the direction I was needed. I waved goodbye to Appa who groaned at me. Momo sat on Appa's head deciding to give his buddy company while we went to round up the komodo-rhinos.

A few moments later we headed to an area at the western wall of the city. There was a raised wall of ice that seemed to circle around the area. A group of warriors stood outside the wall, and I could see in the mix was Master Pakku and the warrior named Tiras.

Sokka approached them, pulling me over. "Okay. I said I'd bring her. But if things get too dangerous I'm stopping this," he argued.

Master Pakku looked at Sokka with calm. "I do not believe things will go in a negative turn, Sokka. Tiras has seen Amara tame one of these animals. If anyone can get them to the ship without causing damage, I'm confident it's your cousin."

I felt my heart skip slightly. I suddenly felt a lot of pressure on my shoulders. I squeezed Sokka's hand just to try and reassure myself I could do this. He squeezed my hand back.

"How many are there?" I asked. "Just so I know…"

Tiras answered. "Five. I think if you can get one moving the rest will follow."

I let out a heavy breath. "Okay. I'll see what I can do."

Tiras moved his hands and created an opening in the ice pen. I let Sokka's hand go and moved forward. If this was a way I could help the Northern Water Tribe then I was willing to try. I just hoped I didn't freak one out and get trampled.

However, once I entered the pen all of my angst went away. I gasped and moved forward. The five komodo-rhinos before me were all from Zuko's ship. They had found their leader during the battle and stuck with him. I assumed the other komodo-rhinos from Zhao's fleet had been taken back to the Fire Nation ships when soldiers retreated.

The group recognized me when I entered the open area. They had been cowering near a pile of hay, scared of the Water Tribe warriors and their circumstances. Their eyes lit up though when they saw me. Lingdao came forward first, grunting. He was happy to see me too.

I heard Sokka gasp. He went to step forward, thinking I was in danger as the creature came towards me. I looked back at him and smiled. He stopped, surprised by my reassurance. "It's okay. I know them… they're all from Zuko's ship. They won't hurt me."

He seemed unsure, but he took in my sincerity and gave a small nod. He stepped back to where Tiras was still standing at the entrance. Aang and Katara had entered at this point to see what was happening.

Turning back to Lingdao, I stepped up to him with a small smile. "Hey, boy..." I moved my hand to the spot above his nose. He shut his eyes as he found comfort in my touch. "Glad to see you're doing okay. And you found your brothers. That's good."

Yi, Er, San, and Si came forward after their leader and I had our greeting. Er dropped on his side for one of the belly rubs I used to give him on the ship, and I laughed, giving in to his plea. I was surrounded by the five giant komodo-rhinos. I knew to the others it was probably a terrifying sight. To me though, I felt at peace with my old friends. They made me think of my days with Zuko and Iroh.

"Okay… it's official," Sokka suddenly said from behind me. "Amara's an animal whisperer!"

Aang laughed. "Yeah. First Momo, then Appa, and now five giant komodo-rhinos… we may end up with tons of pets in the coming weeks!"

Katara argued. "I think Sokka, Appa, and Momo are plenty of mouths to feed."

Sokka was stunned. "Hey! Did you just call me a pet?!"

About an hour later, I'd helped steer Lingdao onto the ship that was prepared to head out to the Earth Kingdom. The other komodo-rhinos followed like I knew they would. The ship was anchored outside of the western wall. It was a massive wooden blue vessel with fine blue sails. The main sail had the water tribe symbol stitched on it. Tiras was going to help get the animals to the Earth Kingdom, so I taught him how to control Lingdao. "As long as you get this one to go, then the rest will follow. He's their leader." Tiras nodded. He managed to gain Lingdao's trust, and then mounted the creature. Once he got the hang of steering, he moved Lingdao towards the opened part of the ship where a ramp was lowered. The other rhinos followed.

Master Pakku had followed us onto the ship, and spoke to me as I stood beside my family and Aang. "You are one special girl, Amara. I've never seen anything like that before. Most komodo-rhinos I have come into contact with have been violent and hostile. These ones were no different. They wouldn't let any of us near them. You're the first person who's been able to approach them since the battle."

I blushed at his praise. "Well… we became really good friends during my time with Prince Zuko and his uncle. They were good company." I crossed my arms. "Honestly… I feel like it's easier to be with animals sometimes… but I guess that's because animals have never hurt me like people…" I grimaced at the memory of my past. "Although that rat-snake wanted a bite of me when I was young… Maybe that creature is why I always thought of Zhao and my uncle as snakes."

Katara hugged me from the side. "Well those serpents won't touch you again."

I smiled. "Yeah… I don't see my uncle sending anyone to retrieve me. He was glad to be rid of me when Zhao took me to the harbor."

Sokka reassured me, "Even if he does, no one is taking you from us without going through me first."

The rest of the day went by quickly and pretty uneventfully. After I saw the ship with my rhino friends disappear on the horizon, I followed the others around as they prepared to depart for the Earth Kingdom. When night hit, we ended up sleeping in our guest home. Then the next morning, we had a small breakfast which was brought to us by one of the palace staff. After we were fed, and my family was packed, we started to head through the city to the south wall where our ship awaited.

When we arrived at the end of the snow outside of the city wall, I saw Appa was already on the ship with Aang who had gone ahead of us. The ship was a massive vessel made out of strong wood and with fine sails. I could tell that this ship was Chief Arnook's personal vessel by its beautiful craftsmanship. We planned to be onboard with Chief Arnook and Master Pakku for the first day. Then by tomorrow morning we would fly east to an Earth Kingdom base where we would gain an escort to Omashu. I was told we were headed there to find a man named King Bumi so Aang could start his earthbending training.

As the ship began to depart, people from the city came out to wave goodbye to Avatar Aang and my family, as well as their chief and Master Pakku. I was amazed by the community and their encouragement.

Our day on the ship was spent sitting around and hearing stories from Chief Arnook and Master Pakku about their younger days. When Master Pakku brought up that he had been betrothed to my grandma, my eyes widened. I hadn't known this, and I couldn't believe the man before me was the one who my grandma had left when she ran to the South Pole.

Master Pakku noted my surprise. He explained to me that the necklace Katara wore was the one he had crafted to give to my grandma Kanna. He then asked me if my mother had given me the necklace I wore, and I explained to him that she had a close friend protect it for many years until he could give it to me.

"I'm so glad you were able to keep a piece of your mother…" Chief Arnook spoke across our circle as we sat and ate some lunch. "Waterbenders have been captured by the Fire Nation for over the last century, and their fates have long been unknown. Hearing what Kala went through… I regret not trying to save those who were captured in the past… Some of our brothers and sisters may still be prisoners within the Fire Nation…"

Aang spoke up. "I'm hoping that won't be for much longer… I really want to defeat the Fire Lord by the end of summer. If everything goes according to plan, then all of the war prisoners will be set free."

I was surprised by his words. "The end of summer…? You… really think you can stop this war so soon?"

Aang sighed. "I have to… this world has waited long enough for the Avatar. It's time to stop this chaos before others are captured and killed… If I hadn't gotten frozen in that iceberg, your mom would've never been captured by the Fire Nation… Katara and Sokka's mom would still be alive… Yue wouldn't have had to sacrifice herself… The world shouldn't have to wait any longer to be saved."

"But…" I let out a heavy breath. "If you hadn't been frozen then you would've never met Katara and Sokka… or Momo… and I probably would've never been born." I hugged my knees as I spoke. "I know about pain and suffering. It's hard… and it shouldn't happen. But the thing is… there's always going to be fighting and discord, Aang… Tu Lan used to tell me stories about ancient tribes and cultures that went to war with one another over land and other disputes." I let out a heavy breath. "Even if you did stop the Fire Lord a hundred years ago, who's to say another evil person wouldn't have done the exact same thing in the last ten years? None of this is your fault… there's just a darkness in people that can make them do horrible things."

Master Pakku smiled. "I know a man that speaks much like you, Amara… He would be proud to hear your wisdom."

I smiled slightly. "Yeah… I know one too…"

However, I dropped my smile as I thought of Iroh.

Iroh… Zuko… I hope you're okay…

That next morning, I woke up to everyone still sleeping in their hammocks below deck. I managed to slip out of mine which was hanging below Katara's. Making my way up the wooden steps, I found the sun was rising. A beautiful orange glow lit the sky. I stepped up to the rail and shut my eyes. It felt good to be on a ship again. However, I also realized as I stood on the deck alone how much I missed Zuko's company.

"Amara," Master Pakku spoke. He stepped up beside me as I turned to face him. "I see you are an early riser."

I smiled. "Yeah… I love watching the sunrise. I didn't get to see it much until this year."

He placed a kind hand on my shoulder. "Your grandma will be so elated when I tell her about you. I didn't say this yesterday, but from the side you look so much like Kanna when she was your age."

I gave him a small thanks. Then, I turned and gripped the rail. "Master Pakku… can… can you do something for me?"

"Of course," he spoke. "Whatever you need, Amara."

I stared down at the water feeling peaceful. "One of the things my mom desired before she died was for grandma to know that she never stopped thinking of her… Just, if you could tell my grandma that, it would mean a lot to the both of us."

He placed a fatherly hand on my head. "Of course, Amara… I'm sure she already knows, but I will be happy to tell her."

I smiled and met his gaze again. "Thanks… I'm sure she'll be really happy to see you. My mom told me that even though Grandma left the North Pole, the man she left behind still held a place in her heart."

His eyes watered and he stared back at the horizon. "It will definitely be so good to see her again…"

After breakfast an hour later, we prepared to depart. As the warriors, Master Pakku, and Chief Arnook stood on deck to see us off, Master Pakku stepped forward.

"We wish you all well on your journey. The road ahead will be long and full of challenges, but you four are brave young ones who I know will bring this world to a new age." He took something from a cloth on top of a box that one of the warriors held. Then he spoke to Katara as he held an object in his hand. The prism had wave shaped patterns of blue and a crescent moon at the top. A small string was tied on the end. "I want you to have this. This amulet contains water from the Spirit Oasis." He handed it to her. "The water has unique properties. Don't lose it."

Katara nodded. "Thank you, Master Pakku." She then stepped forward and gave him a hug. He hugged her back. I could tell he cared for his pupil greatly.

Master Pakku moved on and grabbed the wooden box from the same warrior. He handed the box over to the young Avatar. "Aang, these scrolls will help you master waterbending, but remember they're no substitute for a real master."

Pakku glanced over at Katara who had climbed up onto Appa. Aang looked up at her too, and she smiled down at him.

Pakku spoke again, "But share them with Amara. She deserves to learn as well."

Aang nodded. He looked over at me and smiled. I smiled back.

"Speaking of you, Amara," Pakku continued. Aang left my side to get on Appa, so Sokka and I were the last on deck. "I noticed you do not have anything to carry your element with. While I know you can firebend if you need to, it's always good to have some water at your side." Another warrior stepped over handing Pakku a dark brown water skin. He took it and handed it over to me.

I was amazed at the beautiful leather material. It had a black belt to put on my waist. "Wow… it's… beautiful…" I looked up at him and smiled. "Thank you. I'll treasure it."

Pakku nodded. His eyes shot to Sokka then. Sokka stepped up beside me with expectation. "Sokka." He patted him on the arm. "Take care, son."

Sokka pouted, probably upset he didn't get a gift. He took my hand and guided me over to Appa so he could hide this disappointment. The both of us climbed up Appa's side and managed to get onto his saddle. Once we were seated, Master Pakku pointed towards our destination. "Fly straight to the Earth Kingdom base to the east of here. General Fong will provide you with an escort to Omashu. There you'll be safe to begin your earthbending training with King Bumi."

Aang nodded. "Appa, yip yip!"

He pulled the reins and Appa lifted off. Master Pakku waved goodbye to us.

Katara called back to him, "Say hi to Gran Gran for me! Let her know Amara's in great hands!"

Once we were in the air, I heard Sokka huff beside me. "He could've at least given me a sword or something."

Katara rolled her eyes. "Quit whining. We'll find you something in the Earth Kingdom. Chief Arnook gave me some money to use on our journey."

Sokka sighed. "Okay. I guess I can wait for my gift."

I stared down at the water skin again as I sat cross-legged on the saddle. I ran my finger over the smooth material.

Just wait, mom… I'm going to become a great waterbender like you… I'll make you proud…

Third Person POV

After days of floating on a raft, Iroh was relieved to finally be able to relax and get some good food. He and his nephew had managed to get to a Fire Nation colony on the Northwestern coast of the Earth Kingdom. Thankfully, the owner of the area's famous spa resort recognized Iroh; he had been a customer in the past, and the elderly lady quickly ordered her staff to give them the best treatment.

Iroh let out a deep sigh as the two men massaged him on the stone table in the garden area. Birds chirped around them in the trees. He was wearing a fresh new set of brown Earth Kingdom clothing. "Aaahhh... this is what I've been missing. Who knew floating on a piece of driftwood with no food or water and sea vultures waiting to pluck out your liver could make one so tense?"

Zuko remained quiet. He dropped his head so the brim of the large woven hat he wore fell over his face. He was wearing a new set of Earth Kingdom clothing as well. He crossed his arms as a sensation of pain shot through him. The pain was more emotional than physical.

Iroh sensed his nephew's somber attitude and finally understood. He got up from the table and walked over to where Zuko sat against the wall of the entrance to the garden area. Iroh moved so he was cross-legged beside him. "I see. It's the anniversary, isn't it?"

Zuko frowned, his heart heavy. "Three years ago today I was banished. I lost it all. I want it back. I want the Avatar, I want my honor, I want my throne. I want to be able to be with the girl I love… and I want my father not to think I'm worthless."

Iroh tried to reassure him, although he realized his poor choice of words only after he spoke. "I'm sure he doesn't! Why would he banish you if he didn't care?"

Zuko scowled. He stood from where he was sitting and left the spa room. He walked away from the wooden building through the forest nearby. As he did, he moved his shirt sleeve up to reveal the blue ribbon he kept tied around his wrist. He shoved the sleeve down and stared up at the tree tops.

Not only did he miss his home, and his honor, but he also missed Amara. Since he had left her at the oasis with her cousin, he had been worried sick about her. She had been injured and was weak. However, his uncle promised him that her cousin was a healer, so he hoped that she'd been able to mend Amara quickly. He hoped Amara was okay…

He was sure she was…

He stopped at a tree and sat down against it. He shut his eyes as he dropped his head back. Three years ago, his father burned him and banished him. Three years ago he was forced away from his home. Everything was taken from him. He had felt alone for so long. He had hated every minute of his banishment.

But that had changed in the last few months… After almost three years of traveling through the Earth Kingdom to find the Avatar, his uncle had saved a teenage girl from an evil man. This teenage girl had made Zuko smile and feel needed. He felt loved. He knew if he was never banished he would've never met Amara, and in a way he was glad to have been given the chance to know her. Amara had taught him to see the world with fresh new eyes. He found a sudden interest in animals, plants, trees, and the sunrise… Amara taught him how to actually live and love again…

He stared back at the blue ribbon once more. He was not sure what the future had in store for him, but he hoped one day he would see Amara again. He wanted to see her beautiful eyes, and her amazing smile. He missed her so much.

But, despite his longing and worry, he knew that wherever she was she was with her family. This gave him a small comfort despite the sadness he felt inside him. At least he had helped her find her family like he had promised… At least she was safe…

A cat-owl suddenly sounded in the distance. He smiled as he pictured Amara making the sound. That was the first time she had made him laugh… he truly would treasure that memory forever…

Amara POV

We had been flying for a good three hours. So when we saw the giant fortress in the distance by the Earth Kingdom coast, we were all relieved that our journey was reaching a break. Appa landed in the courtyard of the giant Earth Kingdom base. Once we were settled, the four of us got off Appa to stretch our legs out.

A few moments after we were grounded, a huge group of Earth Kingdom soldiers approached us. They were all in green and tan armor, and most of them were barefoot. Their leader stepped forward. He was a man in his late forties with a long brown beard and his hair in a topknot. He extended his arms out and exclaimed, "Welcome, Avatar Aang! I am General Fong."

He stepped closer and greeted the others. "And welcome to all of you, great heroes! Appa, Momo, brave Sokka, the mighty Katara."

Katara muttered beside me, "Mighty Katara? I like that."

General Fong then looked my way. "And a special welcome to you, Amara. I was informed of your background, and the journey to get to where you are now."

I was stunned.

Sokka was too, "Wow… word does travel fast…"

A loud boom suddenly sounded behind me, followed by another. I gasped. My heart jumped and I covered my ears. Explosions?! Were we under attack?!

Katara noticed my terror. She grabbed my arm to quickly reassure me. "Amara. It's okay. They're just fireworks."

I looked at her with confusion. She turned me and pointed to the area above the base wall. There were explosions in the sky that were creating pretty lights that flared out in all directions. I was surprised by this and dropped my hands from my ears. Fireworks?

Sokka seemed impressed beside me. "Not bad, not bad." He then smiled at me. "They use them in celebration. I guess this is their way of greeting us."

I nodded slightly. I looked back at the last of the fireworks with bewilderment. There was clearly still a lot I did not know about the world.

A few moments later we were in the main meeting room of the Earth Kingdom base tower. The General took his place on a raised platform at the head of the room where his stone desk was. Behind him were two maps standing up at an angle. I could see one map was of the four nations, and the other map was solely of the Earth Kingdom. We were told to sit on a mat in the center of the room so General Fong could speak with us.

"Avatar Aang," General Fong began. "We were all amazed at the stories of how you single-handedly wiped out an entire Fire Navy fleet at the North Pole." He stroked his beard in thought. "I can't imagine what it feels like to wield such devastating power. It's an awesome responsibility."

Aang grimaced from beside me. "I try not to think about it too much."

General Fong was oblivious to Aang's discomfort at the subject. "Avatar... you're ready to face the Fire Lord now."

My eyes widened. Sokka and Katara gasped.

Aang was horrified. "What?! No I'm not!"

Katara argued quickly. "Aang still needs to master all four elements."

General Fong stood. "Why? With the kind of power he possesses—power enough to destroy hundreds of battleships in a matter of minutes—he could defeat the Fire Lord now!"

Sokka slowly raised his hand. I was confused by his actions. However, I quickly realized it was to get the man's attention. "But, sir, the thing is Aang can only do those things when he's in the Avatar state."

Aang agreed. "See, it's this special state where—"

General Fong interrupted rather rudely. "I'm well aware. Your eyes and tattoos glow and you're able to summon unbelievable power." He walked over to the map of the four nations behind him. "Without you we'd be slaughtered before we even reach their shores. But with you leading the way as the ultimate weapon, we could cut a swath right through to the heart of the Fire Nation." He pointed across the map and then jabbed his finger at where the Fire Nation capital was painted.

Aang wasn't so sure. "Right... but I don't know how to get in or out of the Avatar state, much less what to do once I'm there."

I suddenly felt tense. I felt like General Fong wasn't giving Aang much of a choice.

General Fong spoke again. "So it's decided then. I'll help you figure out how to get into the Avatar state, and then you'll face your destiny."

I found my voice. "You shouldn't force him," I argued. I tried to sound confident, but I was a little nervous speaking. "If he isn't comfortable with it then you shouldn't make him do anything he doesn't want to…"

Katara stood abruptly. "Amara's right! Nothing's decided. We already have a plan. Aang's pursuing his destiny his way."

General Fong returned to his desk trying to argue again. "Well, while you take your time learning the elements, the war goes on. May I show you something?"

He started to walk to the east side of the room. We all stood to follow. He guided us over to a circular window that overlooked some smaller buildings. As we looked outside, we saw a stone building with an orange roof. Some Earth Kingdom soldiers were being helped into the building by other soldiers. Most were wrapped in gauze and some were carried on gurneys.

General Fong spoke, "That's the infirmary, and those soldiers are the lucky ones. They came back." He looked down at Aang. "Every day the Fire Nation takes lives. People are dying, Aang! You could end it, now! Think about it." He turned and left.

As we remained at the window and I saw the wounded soldiers, my thoughts went back to Tu Lan. This war had not only caused my mother's death but also injured my friend. As much as I wanted the war to end, and for people to stop suffering, I hated that Aang was being pressured so heavily by it all.

He didn't deserve that type of burden…

Later that night, we were taken to a large guest room with four fine beds. As we started to rest for the night, Aang decided he wanted to check on Appa at the stables before bed. Once Aang was gone, Katara spoke.

"I don't like it… he shouldn't be forced into that. When he goes into the Avatar state, he has no control… it's… scary."

Sokka sighed. "Well, he did save Amara. And he helped destroy the fleet… it does come in handy."

I pulled my feet up on my bed to hug my knees. "I just… don't think putting that pressure on Aang is right. He should choose when he's ready to fight the Fire Lord. If he's not ready, he could get hurt."

"I hope he tells General Fong no," Katara whispered. Momo chattered from Aang's bed in agreement.

About an hour after Aang left, he finally came back. When he did, he said softly, "I told the general I'd help him... by going into the Avatar state."

I was surprised. Katara was horrified. She quickly argued from her bed. "Aang, no. This is not the right way!"

Sokka seemed fine with the idea. "Why not? Remember when he took out the Fire Navy? He was incredible."

Katara tried again. "There's a right way to do this. Practice, study, and discipline."

Sokka wasn't siding with her. "Or just glow it up and stop that Fire Lord."

Katara stood from her bed and tightened her fists. She stomped over to Aang and snapped, "If you two meatheads want to throw away everything we've worked for, fine. Go ahead and glow it up!"

As she turned on her heel and stomped away, Aang cried after her, "Katara, I'm just being realistic. I don't have time to do this the right way."

Once she was gone, I saw Aang sit back on his bed in dismay. I wanted to help, but I honestly didn't know what to do. I had never really needed to comfort anyone but Zuko before. Letting out a heavy breath, I stood. "I'm… going to talk to her."

Sokka sighed. "Probably best to just stay away from her, Amara. When she gets like this she's a loose cannon."

I rolled my eyes. Honestly, I was with her. This all felt wrong. But I still was so new to the group, I didn't want to argue. I just silently left the room and followed after Katara's steps. We got outside the guest room, and Katara stopped at the rail where we could overlook the base square. It was dark, but we could still see shapes from the buildings and people below.

"He's foolish if he thinks this is a good idea! He's going to get himself killed," Katara argued. "Why would he agree to this?"

I sighed, placing my arms on the rail to lean forward. "I don't think he should be forced into this… but if it's his decision, then there's nothing we can do about it." I frowned. "But I agree. I'm worried about him. I haven't known him for more than a few days, but I've come to see he's really just a kid. This isn't fair. He was thrown into a destiny he never wanted."

Katara hung her head. "Yeah… I was so excited when I learned the Avatar returned, but the more I've gotten to know Aang the more I've come to love him… I don't want to lose him. If he fights the Fire Lord when he isn't ready…"

She cut off. I could tell she was upset at the thought. I turned and hugged her. She was surprised by my embrace, but she returned the favor. "Hopefully he'll come to his senses… let him work this out on his own, and just be there when he needs you."

She sighed. "Yeah… you're right." She hugged me closer. "It's so nice to have another girl in the group who understands. I can never talk about these things with Sokka."

I smiled. "It's the least I can do after everything you've all done for me."

That next day, Katara decided to go with us to keep a close eye on Aang. Our first destination was an area outside of the base, on the side of a cliff that overlooked the Earth Kingdom's forest. The place appeared to be designated for meditation, and had a stone overhang. An older man sat at the table in the center of the area and poured some tea for Aang. The rest of us sat behind him, watching with curiosity.

The chi-master spoke. "This rare chi-enhancing tea is a natural stimulant. In an ordinary warrior it improves strength and energy ten-fold. In you, it may induce the Avatar state."

Aang stared at the tea for a moment. He picked it up to inspect it. He even gave it a sniff. "Ten-fold energy, huh?" He took a quick chug of it.

He sat for a moment. The area went quiet. Then his body started to twitch. I was honestly a little nervous. I had not really seen Aang in the Avatar state. All I recalled was him using his waterbending to get me out of the canal.

"Well," General Fong asked from where he sat by the chi-master. "How do you feel?"

Aang jumped up. "I. feel. amazing!" He suddenly started jumping up and down and then got onto a ball of air. He began to race around the room on his air-ball while we watched with amazement.

"Is it working, is it working? I can't tell! Somebody tell me if I'm in the Avatar state 'cause I don't have a good view of myself! Am I talking too loud?"

Sokka sighed beside me. "I guess he could talk the Fire Lord to death."

Aang zoomed around us one last time, and then he smacked into one of the four columns holding up the roof. He fell back with an, "Ooof!"

I cringed. I had a feeling that wasn't pleasant. Katara shook her head in disbelief. Momo raced over to make sure Aang was okay.

The other two tests were failures as well. Sokka tried to scare Aang back at the entrance to the base by making it appear Momo had his head on Sokka's body. Aang only screamed for a moment. There was no glow. I had to keep myself from laughing at Sokka though as he had trouble getting Momo off and fell on his back.

The next test was in a stone cave outside of the base where an Earth Kingdom temple was. The priest of the temple met us at the bottom of some stairs in the large space. He had a bowl of water, threw in fire from a torch behind him, tossed in dirt, and then puffed out some air with a strange contraption. He tossed the contents onto Aang, who only sneezed it off onto General Fong and Sokka.

General Fong sighed heavily and spoke to no one in particular. "We have to find a way."

I frowned. "Maybe this just means he's not ready…"

"Amara's right," Katara began. "Aang needs to train."

General Fong ignored her. "Tomorrow… I will try one more method." He turned and left us. I shook my head in disbelief. He was a crazy man who only cared about power it seemed… much similar to Zhao… I shivered at the thought.

That night, as the others slept in our guest room, I had a nightmare. It was my first memorable dream since joining my family and Aang. I suppose I had been so overcome with joy in the last few days, my angst towards Aang's safety and my family had me on edge.

In my dream, I was back in my attic prison. I was chained up and alone. I was trembling. I recall thinking that Aang had lost. The Fire Lord defeated him. I thought about my Water Tribe family being killed. Then as the despair took me over, my attic door shot open and Zhao stood before me.

"You fool! You truly believed you'd be free?! You will always belong in a cage! You are nothing!"

I covered my ears and shut my eyes to block him out. "No! You're wrong!"

"I'm not," his voice rang. It was as loud as before. "You were born a prisoner and you will die a prisoner. Know your place freak!"

I looked at him with fury. "You're wrong! I am not a prisoner!"

"Yes, you are," he spoke with a grin. "The Avatar and your family are dead. You have nowhere else to go. This cage is where you have always belonged."

"No! Please!" I jumped and rushed to the door. He slammed it shut, and my light left me. I was in the dark as I scratched at the door which had no handle. "Please!"

"Amara!" Katara shook me suddenly. My dream vanished and I woke up to my cousin standing beside me with worry. I gasped as I returned to reality.

A dream… It had only been a dream.

Katara sat on the bed beside me as I calmed my breathing. I noticed Aang and Sokka were awake, concerned as well. I sat up and hung my head in embarrassment. "Sorry…" I whispered. "I didn't mean to wake everyone. Just a bad dream. I'm okay."

"Seems that's being passed around tonight," Aang muttered.

Katara looked over at the boys. "You two go back to sleep. I've got this." They nodded and laid back down. Katara nudged me to move over. I scooted to let her sit beside me. "Want to talk about it?"

I had pushed the blanket off in my panic. I pulled my knees to my chest for comfort. I rested my cheek on my knee, letting out a heavy breath. "It's… just so frustrating. I've been so happy these last few days. I've felt so free since Zhao was defeated." Tears burned. "But when I sleep, he comes back and plagues my mind. I wish I never had to see him again, and yet he's there still… I fear I'll never truly be free of him."

Katara hugged me from the side suddenly. I moved from hugging my knees so I could lean into her and accept her comfort.

She spoke with reassurance. "It will take time, Amara… you have to work on replacing sixteen years of fear and torture with happiness and love. But no matter how long it takes for you to heal, we'll be there for you. You're not alone anymore. As long as Sokka and I are with you, you can be reassured that you have no chains holding you down."

I wiped my wet cheek as she continued to hold me close. My racing heart had calmed. I smiled as her embrace reminded me so much of my mother. "Thanks, Katara. Even though I'm the oldest of the group, you're definitely the most mature… I feel like I'm your younger sister these days."

She argued. "What you've been through… I would've never survived as long as you did. You're the strongest girl I've met. I know one day you're going to be the strongest dual-bender this world has ever seen."

I smiled. "With you as my waterbending teacher, I think that will be true."

That night Katara stayed with me. Sleeping beside my cousin, she held my hand as we drifted again. Her warmth reassured me that I was not dreaming and safe with my family.

The next day, Aang and Sokka headed out of the room to go meet with General Fong. Just like Katara, I decided I was done seeing the man and stayed with her. As we remained in our room, I pet Momo who sat in my lap while Katara told me more stories about her mom. It appeared Aunt Kya had been an adventurous soul. She had also been an amazing mom. I was disappointed I didn't get the chance to meet her, but I knew in a way I still was meeting her through her children.

The room suddenly shook, and I heard a loud crash. Then there was a sound of stone crumbling, and the earth shook again.

Katara sighed. "I wonder what crazy thing they're trying now." She grimaced when the room shook again. "Maybe we should just make sure Aang's okay?"

I nodded. "Yeah… just a drop in won't hurt."

Momo hopped on Katara's shoulder as the two of us headed out of the room to go outside. However, when we reached the top of the steps to the base tower, we were horrified by what we saw. General Fong was attacking Aang, and his men were on ostrich-horses barricading him from escape. They shot large round pieces of stone at him. The rolling stones had a square cut out in the middle. Aang was forced to use his airbending to dodge the stones and deflect rocks that other earthbenders were throwing at him.

Sokka appeared suddenly out of the tower entrance and ran towards the stairs. We took the other stairs near us to meet up with him at the point where they converged below.

Katara asked with concern as we headed to the yard of the base, "What's going on?" Momo took off at this point to go see about helping Aang. He hopped on an Earth Kingdom soldier's head, making the man's green hat fall and blind him.

Sokka explained once we got off the last step, "The general's gone crazy. He's trying to force Aang into the Avatar state!"

My cousins raced forward to fight. The water skin on my side was full, so I knew I could try and help. I hadn't battled many people before, but if I could fight Zhao then I could fight these earthbenders.

I just couldn't believe what I was seeing… Iroh told me that the Earth Kingdom was in support of the Avatar, yet they weren't listening to Aang's wishes. I couldn't believe that General Fong and his army were so obsessed with getting Aang into the Avatar state that they did not care they were putting him in danger.

Sokka had hijacked an ostrich-horse at this point and was attacking some of the Earth Kingdom soldiers who held spears. He used his boomerang to knock a few out. Katara was shooting her water at some soldiers to stop them as well. I rushed forward and tried to follow her lead. Opening the cap on my water pouch, I threw a stream at one of the soldiers on an ostrich-horse. He didn't see my attack and was thrown off. I managed to get the water back in my pouch. However, before I attacked another soldier the earth shifted beneath me and I stumbled back.

As I tried to regain my balance, I saw with horror that Katara was suddenly trapped on both sides by the stone circles, and the earthbenders were ready to attack. I gasped as my cousin was in danger.

General Fong looked over at Aang who was on the steps. "Maybe you can avoid me, but she can't." He looked back at Katara with resolve. Katara shot her water towards him, but he shot dirt up at the water causing the two elements to mix and turn to mud. Then General Fong took a fighting stance and Katara spun, sinking into the ground.

"Katara!" I rushed forward. "No! Leave her alone!"

She struggled but couldn't get out of her sinkhole. She was trapped to her knees. "Aaahhh! I can't move!"

Aang was horrified. "Don't hurt her!" He jumped down from the steps and shot a stream of air at General Fong. The man raised a wall of earth quickly to block. As he lowered the wall, he also lowered Katara more into the ground. She screamed.

No… I couldn't lose her. I had just found my family… I wasn't letting another monster take away my family!

"NO! LET HER GO!" I raced around the line of stone discs and thrusted my hands forward. A stream of fire shot towards the monster. He gasped when he saw my flames coming his way. He was forced to stop sinking Katara so he could block my attack. As he raised a stone wall to save himself, Sokka rushed over to Katara on the ostrich-horse he had hijacked.

My fire broke through General Fong's wall and he was forced to duck. He stood straight once my fire stopped and looked at me with shock.

I yelled, "Release her! Now!"

He scowled. "I bring you here as a guest to the Earth Kingdom and you use the enemy's weapon against me."

"You're the one acting like the enemy right now!"

He scowled. "I'm in the middle of something you wouldn't understand, firebender!"

I went to attack again, but earth suddenly shot up beneath me and trapped my body so everything below my shoulders was restrained. I gasped and struggled.

Aang grabbed General Fong's arm with desperation. "Please! Stop! Leave Katara and the others alone!"

General Fong jerked from his arm and turned back to Katara. "Last chance."

Aang cried and begged again. Sokka looked panicked as there was nothing but Katara's head left. He yelled out with fury and charged forward, but the ostrich-horse he was on was stopped by stone trapping its feet. Sokka was flung off into one of the discs. His body got stuck in the square cut out at the center.

Aang cried again. "You can't do this!"

"I can… and you're too late," Fong snapped. Katara disappeared beneath the earth. I screamed and cried out to her.

Aang had lunged at the spot she had been but wasn't fast enough. He was furious. His arrow tattoos started to glow as the Avatar was awakened. My eyes widened as I watched Aang start to lift from the ground. The earth shook beneath me and air and dust surrounded Aang. The earth trapping me was dropped, and I was freed. I rushed over to Sokka to help him out of his square, but my heart was pounding erratically as I feared for Katara.

General Fong was thrilled. "It worked! It worked!"

A strong blast of wind suddenly shot at the man and hit him hard. He blocked the wind with his arms. But then the Avatar kicked another gust of wind and the general was thrown back at the bottom steps of his meeting tower. The stone around us started to crack, lift, and fall. Sokka held an arm around me protectively as he held onto the stone circle so we weren't blown away.

General Fong was back to his feet again. "Avatar Aang, can you hear me?! Your friend is safe!" He raised his arms and Katara appeared beside him, gasping for air on her knees. I was so relieved and let out a much needed breath. "It was just a trick to trigger the Avatar state, AND IT WORKED!"

The Avatar continued in his fury. Rocks were flung at buildings around us. Sokka made me kneel behind the stone circle as debris rushed by us. I was stunned by all that was occurring. Aang was powerful in this state... The most powerful bender I had ever seen… but he had no control. I could see now why Katara was worried.

Just as the damage grew, the sound of wind and cracking stone finally came to a stop. Sokka let out a heavy breath and stood, helping me up as he did. We walked around the disc to see Katara was hugging Aang who was on his knees in dismay. Sokka left my side, while I took in some breaths to calm my racing heart.

Aang spoke to Katara once the glow faded to a normal tattoo on his flesh. "I'm sorry, Katara. I hope you never have to see me like that again.

General Fong had recovered from being thrown back. He approached, thrilled by the results. "Hah! Are you joking? That was almost perfect! We just have to find a way to control you when you're like that."

Aang looked up at him with a scowl. "You're out of your mind."

The man ignored him, continuing his rant. "I guess we'll figure that out on the way to the Fire Nation."

Sokka suddenly rode up behind him on the ostrich-horse and smacked him on the top of the head with his boomerang. The General collapsed on the ground unconscious.

Sokka looked over at the soldiers who were disheveled from Aang's attack. Most of the soldiers retreated into the tower when the glow began. "Anybody got a problem with that?"

The soldiers shook their head in unison.

Sokka dismounted the creature. As he did, I rushed forward to break my distance. I didn't hesitate in hugging Katara with relief. She hugged me back, glad to see I was okay too.

"I think I've had enough of this place," Aang muttered. Momo appeared on his shoulder suddenly and chattered in agreement.

A soldier approached suddenly, asking with uncertainty, "Do you still want an escort to Omashu? It's the least we can do after the trouble we've caused."

Katara crossed her arms. "I think we're all set."

A few moments later we grabbed our things from the room we'd been staying in, and then headed to the stables near the entrance of the base where Appa was. General Fong was carried away to his room so he could recover from his head injury. As the group got on Appa to prepare to depart, I frowned remembering what General Fong had said.

I'm in the middle of something you wouldn't understand, firebender!"

I looked down at my palm and created a small flame. As the fire danced, I felt my heart twist. Would this be my future? I would be accepted by my allies as a waterbender… but I would be their enemy whenever I tried to firebend?

I cut my flame and let out a sigh. I reassured myself: At least my family, Iroh, and Zuko accepted me for both… That was all that really mattered in the end.

Third Person POV

Zuko stared at his reflection in the stream before him. He had cut his hair and now there was only one patch on his head. He knew it would grow out quickly… he honestly didn't care. He had truly lost it all.

When his younger sister Azula had arrived the day before to give him the message that his banishment was being lifted he had been thrilled. After three years, he was finally going home. However, when he and his uncle made it to the ship a little while ago to head to the Fire Nation, they discovered it was all a trap. Azula had come to arrest them. Zuko's father had not changed his mind. Instead, the Fire Lord saw him as a failure and wanted to lock him up.

Zuko's eyes burned with tears. His uncle Iroh was all he had now. He felt so alone. So scared. He truly was unwanted by his father. The Fire Lord did not care about him unless he captured the Avatar. It wasn't fair!

He shouted in anger and loss as Iroh stood a few yards off. Iroh felt nothing but sorry for the young prince who had been betrayed by his father and sister.

As Zuko dropped his hands, he saw the ribbon again that still adorned his wrist. His luck was no good at the moment. He had no home. He didn't know if the Avatar was still at the North Pole or had moved on. He missed Amara and wished she were with him. He felt so lost and angry by everything that had happened. He didn't understand why he was being so punished.

However, as he thought about his rough circumstances, he realized that Amara had once had it so much worse than him. If she could survive through the abuse and torture then he could survive being homeless and abandoned…

His new plan was to try to keep calm and alert. He needed to stay focused on the original task at hand: capturing the Avatar. Then hopefully he could fix everything. He could go home. Earn back his throne… see Amara again.

He stood and let out a heavy breath. He turned to his uncle who had shorter hair than before. "We should go… Azula may be following us."

Iroh nodded. "Don't lose hope, Prince Zuko. I know you are disheartened by this, but we are still free. There's still a chance you can go home again. I truly believe destiny will one day be our friend. Just be patient."

Zuko nodded. He stared back at the ribbon, and then at the water again. He really hoped destiny would bring Amara back to him too. He missed her more the longer they were apart.

But he remained at peace in the fact that she was happy with her cousins and no longer a prisoner to Zhao or her uncle. Amara was free, and this gave Zuko the strength to move on.