School starts tomorrow, so I'm not sure when the next chapters will be done. However, here's a chapter for you all just to thank you for your continuous support.
Thanks,
Faith
Chapter 34: Lightning
Third Person POV
When Zuko woke up in the late morning, he jumped a bit when he heard the flapping of wings nearby. He opened his eyes to see the black feathered white furred cat-owl had flown up to the window sill of the abandoned building they were in to look outside. As the cat-owl swished her tail back and forth, Zuko looked over at the reason for the small animal's presence.
He was relieved when he saw the sleeping teenage girl was where he'd left her, laying on the blue sleeping-bag he had helped her roll out the day before. He was relieved because he had been worried that everything was a dream. He had been scared to wake up. He was scared Amara had left with her family. He was glad she stayed. He knew it was selfish to want to keep her from her cousins, but he had missed her. He was so grateful she chose to help him with his uncle. He had needed her…
He recalled the events that occurred twelve hours before. Once he and Amara had managed to carry Iroh into the closest abandoned building (Amara taking his legs while Zuko took his upper half) and lowered him to the floor, Amara told Zuko to take Iroh's shirt off while she ran out to grab her bags. When she got back, she rummaged through the pack she had and pulled out some rolled up gauze and a canteen of water.
"I'm not as good as Katara," she said softly, looking over the damage. "But I know how to repair the worst of it. We can at least heal it enough so he's more comfortable and there's less risk of infection."
She proceeded to open the canteen and pull water out. She used both of her hands to hover the liquid over the marred flesh. As she concentrated her energy into the deepest part of the burn, the water started to glow. Zuko was mesmerized as he watched Amara use her healing abilities. He hadn't known she could do such a thing. She focused on the area for a few minutes, repairing the damaged tissue and flesh as much as she could. When the worst of it was mended, she put her remaining water back in the canteen. The bleeding had stopped and the blisters were gone. All that remained was the burn.
"He'll be okay," she whispered. "The pain is probably what knocked him out. He'll hopefully wake tomorrow. I can try and heal him some more after I've gotten some rest. We should put gauze on him though just in case it opens again."
Zuko held Iroh up as Amara moved the gauze around the man's back and chest. She had just enough to cover the area, and she was relieved. Finally, once the mending was done, Zuko lowered the man back to the ground.
Amara let out a deep breath when the worst was over. "He just needs rest."
The cat-owl hopped over and nuzzled the man's cheek. Zuko looked at the creature puzzled, only seeming to notice her for the first time. "Is… it yours?"
Amara held her hand out and the cat-owl moved over to her. She pet the space between the creature's ears. "Her name's Yuna… I lost my cousins for a little bit one day, and found her. Her mom was killed by a cat-gator so I took her in."
Yuna purred and then chimed. "Mew-Hoo!"
Zuko was amazed. Then he smiled. "Why am I surprised? You do make the sound perfectly. Maybe you are secretly a cat-owl, and that's why they're drawn to you."
Yuna moved over to Zuko, and Zuko reached out to gently pet her on the head. Yuna purred in acceptance.
As Zuko pet Yuna, Amara suddenly swayed. She caught herself from falling over, placing her hand on the ground. Zuko could tell she was exhausted. "You should sleep… we'll talk more in the morning." He stood and walked over to her pack. He untied the sleeping bag he saw earlier, and then rolled it out for her.
Amara didn't argue. She was exhausted. She crawled right on and passed out. Yuna moved beside her. As she slept, Zuko reached out and brushed his hand gently against her soft black hair. The familiar feeling was enough for him to calm his remaining nerves and rest.
When he finally got up from where he'd been sleeping on the ground, and saw Amara was still where he'd left her, he left the building quietly to go find some food outside of town. He caught a few fish in a stream in the forest nearby. He had gotten better at fishing since his time in the Earth Kingdom. When he got back, he saw Amara was still asleep. He was glad she was getting the rest she needed. After he checked on her, and then his uncle, he went outside to rummage through the town. He found some cooking supplies (a pot, pan, tin cups, and some tin plates), and returned back to the place he'd left the others.
The building they were in had a metal stove in the corner of the room. He quickly started to cook the food, using wood from a damaged crate in the corner to get the fire started. Yuna hopped over to him on the ground, looking up at the plate of raw-fish with wide eyes.
He rolled his eyes, but spoke to the creature with kindness. "She spoils you, doesn't she?"
Yuna mewed. He grabbed a raw fish and held it down to her. She took it in her mouth and hopped away to eat it.
"I don't spoil her," Amara suddenly muttered. "I just feed her well."
Zuko looked over in surprise. Amara was on her feet, and she ran a hand through her disheveled hair to get the tangles out.
She looked outside the window, seeing the sun was up. "How long was I out?"
He threw a fish on the pan. "Probably as long as you needed to be. It's a few hours past sunrise. You were exhausted."
She sighed, and walked over to him. She crossed her arms as she stared out the window. "Your sister and her friends were chasing us all night… I guess the exhaustion finally took me. I hope the others were able to get some rest."
"I was a step behind you all the whole time, so I can imagine how tired everyone was yesterday," Zuko spoke. Then a thought struck him. "Now that I think of it, I don't know where that ostrich-horse ran to…"
She was puzzled. "Ostrich-horse?"
He flinched. He didn't want to tell her he'd been stealing. Instead he said, "We found him when we first got into the Earth Kingdom and used him to get around. He must've ran off from the fighting. I'm sure he's fine."
She nodded. "I… heard a rumor on our travels… you and Iroh were marked as traitors?"
He sighed. "Yeah… Azula tried to arrest us when we first got into the Earth Kingdom after the North Pole. We had to run…"
She frowned. "I'm sorry… your sister doesn't seem very pleasant…"
He shrugged. "She's never been." He stared down at the cooking fish. "I heard she was after you too…"
She nodded and walked closer to the window. She crossed her arms. "It's my fault… I revealed my abilities to her friends, Mai and Ty Lee, and they saw me as a threat."
Her words surprised him. He then felt nervous. He knew Mai had feelings for him, and he was worried Amara had been hurt by her. Mai had always been a little obsessed with him. "Mai… you met her? Did she hurt you?"
Amara frowned. "When we first met she got my arm with a knife… that's when Katara showed me how to heal. The second time we met, she just wanted to talk. She's definitely crushed that you and I got so close."
He sighed. "She liked me when we were kids. That was a very long time ago… I stopped thinking about her after I was banished… then I met you…"
Amara's heart fluttered. "It's okay… we spoke some about you… she's upset, but she also understands. At least I think… it's hard to figure her mood out."
He nodded. He turned from the stove and suddenly placed a hand on her cheek. He brushed his thumb against her skin. She leaned into his touch. Zuko noticed that she had grown a lot in the time they were apart. She looked stronger… more confident… less scared… she no longer looked like a young girl fresh out of a cage…
"You're different… you look so much stronger than the last time I saw you," Zuko whispered.
She blushed. "I'm… not that different. I've just become stronger physically… and I'm not as scared as I used to be because Zhao's dead…" She then added, "And you're one to talk. I barely recognized you with that hairstyle." She moved her hand through his hair. It was still only a few inches in length, but soft to the touch. "I like it."
It was Zuko's turn to blush at her compliment. "Thanks."
Amara caught from the corner of her eye something tied around Zuko's wrist. Her eyes widened. "My ribbon… you… you kept it all this time." She moved her hand up to the wrist still near her face to trace the blue fabric with her finger.
"It was the only thing I had to remind me of you. That and every cat-owl sound in the world."
Her throat tightened as emotions welled up again. "I thought about you everyday… I was so worried something happened to you after the North Pole."
He shrugged. "Other than Azula, we were okay."
She smiled. "Good… I'm glad to hear…"
Zuko suddenly moved forward. He brushed his thumb against her again. He had not dropped his hand yet. "Thank you, Amara…"
She met his gaze with confusion. Her beautiful deep blue eyes were an amazing sight to see. Zuko felt his worries fade.
"Thank you for staying with me. And helping Uncle. I can't imagine how hard it was to leave your cousins after searching for them for so long… but I'm grateful…"
She sighed and placed her hand over Zuko's. "It was harder for them… they know I love them. I just knew where I was needed. I don't regret my decision. I owed you and Iroh so much… I had to help him… and you."
She suddenly moved up on her tip-toes, sliding her arms around his neck. Zuko understood her intention. He met her halfway and their lips touched. As they kissed, it felt like the days they had been apart were old memories. Their hearts fluttered as they were together again.
"I love you," Zuko whispered when he pulled away for a moment. "I'm so glad you're here, Amara."
She opened her eyes which she'd closed from his touch, and smiled up at him. "Me too, Zuko… I love you… I'm glad to be here."
They kissed again, Zuko pulling her closer and never wanting to let her go.
However, the scent of burning fish suddenly brought Zuko back to reality. He pulled away and turned back to the stove with a gasp. As smoke rose from the pan, he groaned at the ruined meal.
Amara laughed though. He smiled when he heard the familiar sound. He was so glad to hear that laugh again.
Amara POV
I felt like I was in a dream. Everything felt so surreal. I hadn't seen Zuko since Zhao and I fell into the Northern Water Tribe's canal. That felt like months ago. I honestly lost track of the time.
When I woke up this morning, I was relieved to see Zuko was interacting with Yuna. He had a soft side for animals, so it warmed my heart that the two were getting along. I was also amazed that Zuko had gathered so much material and food. He must've learned a lot about scavenging while he and Iroh journeyed through the Earth Kingdom.
As we had our small discussion, and then we kissed, my thoughts became clouded as my heart fluttered loudly within. I felt so happy and at peace. I had missed Zuko. I had missed him more than I realized.
Zuko and I ate the burnt fish, and then I checked over Iroh again. I took the gauze off and gave him another healing session. As the water flowed over the burnt flesh, I could see more of the damage start to repair. Once I did all I could, Zuko helped me put the gauze back on.
After helping Iroh, Zuko mentioned that there was a stream nearby he'd washed up in earlier. He could see I was desperate to freshen up from the way I was still running my fingers through my hair. Yuna went with me as I walked in the direction Zuko had pointed me to. Sure enough, there was a stream deep enough for me to go waist deep in. I left my outer shirt and pants on shore, wearing my underwrappings as I stepped into the water. Yuna stayed on shore, watching tiny fish swim by, and snapping at one every now and then.
I sunk into the water a little, letting out a heavy breath. I thought about my family, hoping they had all gotten some rest. I hoped they wouldn't fight with Toph anymore too. I wanted them to be safe and happy.
I thought about my mom then. Would she have approved of my decision to remain with Iroh and Zuko? My hand moved to the necklace I barely took off, and I fiddled with the charm again.
Mom… I know this isn't what you wanted… but I'm happy. Iroh and Zuko will take care of me. I'll see our family again… I'm just needed here for now…
I submerged myself then, wetting my hair completely. When I came back up for air, I felt refreshed and ready for a new journey.
Once I was washed up, I soaked my clothes in the river as well to get some of the dirt off the fabric. I would work on washing them better when I found a pot to warm water in. Once I rinsed off my clothes as much as I could, I used my waterbending to take the water out of the fabric. I also took the remaining water off of me. Putting back on my light blue shirt and dark blue pants, I called Yuna and we headed back into town.
On my way, I caught from the corner of my eye an ostrich-horse munching on grass. I quickly gathered that this was the ostrich-horse that had been Zuko's traveling buddy. I slowly approached and the creature looked over at me with curiosity. His feathers were dark brown, and he had powerful talons. His tail was white, and his mane was a lighter brown. I held my hand out to him, and he came forward to let me pet him. I saw he was still wearing a brown saddle and had Zuko's bags and some broadswords tied to the side.
The ostrich-horse quickly took a liking to me and followed me back to the town. I found a nice spot of shade for him and told him I'd sneak some leftover fish. Yuna was excited by her new feathered friend, and she stayed with him as I looked around the town.
As I searched through the abandoned homes, I was looking for any sign of a comb or hairbrush. I was relieved to find a wooden comb inside a chest in one of the buildings. As I combed the knots out of my hair, I thought again about Katara. Even after all we had been through, her hair had still looked great yesterday. I wished my hair would cooperate like hers... I really needed to tie it up again…
Thinking of my cousin, I felt sad that we had separated. Only because I knew they would worry about me. I hoped they didn't worry too much. Iroh and Zuko would take care of me. They had done it before.
Of course, I knew Sokka and Katara's greatest worry was that I was journeying with the Fire Lord's son (their enemy). They only saw Zuko as a prince on a mission to capture Aang. Part of me hoped I could convince him that he didn't need the Avatar to be happy. I knew that would be difficult though. Zuko missed his home, and missed being in the Fire Nation. He felt like he was in enemy territory. Honestly, if I wasn't part Water Tribe I would've felt the same.
Once I was finally freshened up and not a wild child, I went back to the place where Iroh and Zuko were. When I arrived, I saw Zuko was brewing some tea in a pot on the stove. He had a container of tea leaves beside him.
"Where'd you find those?"
He answered, keeping focused on the brew, "This town was abandoned pretty recently. The place next door had some herbs hidden in a chest."
I walked back over to Iroh who was still unconscious. I knelt beside him and placed my hand over his. He was breathing steadily. His ashen skin from the day before had returned to its normal shade. "He looks better," I spoke with relief. I stood and walked back over to Zuko. "Hopefully my healing sped things up."
He nodded. "It definitely did. Tha-"
Zuko stopped speaking when he looked over at me. It was the first time he had since I'd returned from washing up. He looked surprised.
I shot him a puzzled expression. "What?"
He shook his head and looked back at the stove. His cheeks were red. "No… nothing… it's just… you look even more beautiful than when I first saw you this morning. Your hair's gotten longer."
His words made my cheeks burn again. I crossed my arms. "That's because I was a mess this morning… I actually have been thinking of cutting my hair though… It sometimes slows down my fighting."
Zuko suddenly pulled the ribbon off his wrist. "All you need is something to tie it up."
I stared at the ribbon, and then at Zuko. I smiled and nodded. Then I reached for it, but he pulled it away.
"Turn around," he said. "I'll help."
My cheeks burned more if that was even possible. However, I nodded again and turned around. I grabbed my hair to pull it up into a ponytail, and he tied the blue ribbon around to hold my hair in place. Once the ribbon was secure, I let go and turned around to face Zuko again. He smiled when he saw my face better.
"There," he said. "Back where it belongs."
"Mew-Hoo!" Yuna called from nearby. I looked up and saw her sitting in the window. The ostrich-horse peeked his head in. Zuko was bewildered when he saw the two animals appear out of nowhere.
"Oh," I exclaimed. I quickly grabbed the container in the corner of the room that we'd put the leftover fish in and pulled one out. "Here you go boy." I handed the ostrich-horse a fish, and he took it in his beak. As he walked off, I handed another one to Yuna too. "Looks like I'll need to get some more for Iroh since you've all taken the last."
I turned back to Zuko when the two animals were satisfied. He looked at me with astonishment. I was puzzled by his expression. "What?"
He blinked. "Where did you find him?"
I pointed towards the wall that was in the direction of the stream. "He was in the forest. He didn't go too far."
Zuko sighed and then smiled. "I'm going back to what I originally said… you're definitely a woodland spirit."
I smiled back. "Well… they do like me, so maybe I am."
Yuna flew over and landed on my shoulder to confirm this. "Mew-Hoo!"
I looked back at the direction the ostrich-horse had gone. He found another shaded spot outside. "What's his name?"
Zuko suddenly looked ashamed. "Uh… We actually never gave him one."
I was sad to hear. "Well… he should have one." I tapped my chin. "What about Ping?"
Zuko nodded. "Yeah… that sounds good."
Ping neighed from his spot outside in agreement.
Zuko laughed. He then took my hand and squeezed it with reassurance. "It's so good to have you back, Amara…"
I smiled again. "I'm just glad you're doing well. I hated not knowing if you and Iroh were okay. My cousins didn't understand my concerns… but that's because they don't see you and Iroh the way I do… You're family."
A groan suddenly sounded from behind me. I turned and looked over to see Iroh (who was still laying on the ground with some old wadded cloth under his head for a pillow) was starting to stir.
I gasped with relief as I heard his breathing change and saw his eyelids try to open. I quickly moved down beside him as he came out of his unconscious state.
"Zu… Zuko…" Iroh whispered.
Zuko walked over and knelt beside me. Yuna had moved from my shoulder and was on the floor too, staring at Iroh with curiosity. Zuko responded to Iroh, to reassure him. "I'm right here, Uncle…"
Iroh sighed with relief. He came more to his senses, and then finally woke up in full. His eyes stared at Zuko with great confusion.
Zuko explained. "You were unconscious. Azula did this to you."
Iroh managed to sit up, wincing slightly in pain. He pressed his hand to the spot on his chest.
Zuko spoke again. "It was a surprise attack."
Iroh muttered. "Somehow, that's not so surprising." He looked over at Zuko again. "The surprising part is that the damage is not what I expected."
Zuko smiled. His eyes shot over to me. "You can thank Amara for that. She healed you."
Iroh followed Zuko's gaze. His eyes stared at me with bewilderment as he noticed me for the first time. Then he smiled and tears fell. "Amara… it's so wonderful to see you again, dear."
I smiled and my own eyes watered. "You too, Iroh. I've missed you."
He moved carefully to rest back against the wall beside him so he was up. Then he looked at me again and furrowed his brows. "Are your family still here?"
I shook my head. "My cousins left with the Avatar yesterday. I couldn't leave you… I refused to. They weren't thrilled, but they accepted my wish to stay."
Iroh placed a fatherly hand on my arm. "As long as this is what you want, then that is all that matters. And you will see them again soon. That I'm certain."
I placed my hand over his. "I know…"
He moved his hand to take my own, grasping it in a warm embrace. "You look so much stronger, Amara… I can see the change in you. Being with your family, you must've healed so much from your dark past."
I squeezed his hand. "You helped me heal too, Iroh. One of the reasons I chose to stay. You saved me. It was my turn to save you."
Another tear fell from his eye. "Thank you. You are truly wonderful, Amara. And a fine healer."
I blushed. "I… I'm still not as good as Katara. But hopefully my healing helped enough to make you more comfortable."
He nodded. "Yes. The burn is nothing compared to what it could've been. I only feel it when I move. You did a great job."
Zuko had left my side to get some tea. As he did, Yuna took his spot. She mewed, bringing Iroh's attention over to her.
"And who is this cutie?" He pulled his hand from me to hold it towards Yuna.
I smiled. "She's my friend… Her name's Yuna. I saved her when I was lost in a swamp."
Yuna let Iroh pet her. As he stroked her feathers, he said, "Looks like you have some stories to tell us. I want to hear all about your journey with your family."
"Me too," Zuko commented. He returned with the tea and handed it over to Iroh. "I hope I made it the way you like it."
Iroh took the cup with gratitude. He took a sip. I caught him trying not to show his distaste for it, and instead he said, "Mmm, good." He took another tiny sip to try and please Zuko. "That was very, uhh... bracing!"
I tried not to laugh at Iroh's cover up. Zuko didn't seem to notice. He looked down, and as he did Iroh sneakily threw the rest out the window. I coughed to cover my laugh. Zuko still didn't notice as his mind became focused on something else.
"So uncle, I've been thinking... It's only a matter of time before I run into Azula again. I'm going to need to know more advanced firebending if I want to stand a chance against her. I know what you're going to say: she's my sister and I should be trying to get along with her..."
Iroh argued. "No, she's crazy and she needs to go down." He then nodded his head. "It's time to resume your training. We'll do so this evening. For now, I have much I want to hear. Especially from Amara…" He placed the cup down and looked over at me. "Tell me all about your time with your cousins."
I did. I told them everything: Meeting my cousin Sokka for the first time; Meeting Katara shortly after; Being initiated by the Northern Water Tribe chief as a daughter of fire and water. I told them about our Komodo-Rhino friends and how they were taken to the Earth Kingdom to live peacefully at a zoo in Ba Sing Se. I then moved on to tell them about my time in the Earth Kingdom. I told them about Katara training me, and me practicing my firebending daily. I explained that some Earth Nation men were a little prejudiced towards me, and there were moments I felt like an outsider. However, I added that my family and the Avatar always stood by my side and accepted me.
Then I told them about the strange group of nomads we met and traveled through the tunnels with. I moved on to Omashu, stating that we tried to save King Bumi after he was imprisoned, but Azula, Mai, and Ty Lee showed up hindering our plans. I spoke about revealing I was a dualbender that day to Mai and Ty Lee, and how I was immediately marked as a threat to the Fire Nation. Then I told them about the Rough Rhinos trying to capture me for the reward money Azula put out on my head, and that I almost left my family because I felt guilty that Katara got hurt trying to protect me. I then moved on to the swamp, explaining to them how we crashed in the wild area and had to search for Appa and Momo. They were horrified when I brought up the vines dragging me off, but relieved when I told them I found Yuna a few hours later, and then my cousin Sokka.
"After the swamp we kept looking for Aang's earthbending teacher. We found Toph at an Earth Kingdom town. She's blind, but she can see vibrations through the earth so she finds her way better than others. Katara and her got into a disagreement after she started to travel with us. I think a lot of the temper was because Azula and the others were chasing us and we were exhausted. Toph left us, and then we ran into Ty Lee and Mai again. They let us go… and then we came to the abandoned Earth Kingdom village to find Aang. That's where our stories meet."
Zuko and Iroh had been silent and mesmerized by my tale. Yuna had drifted to sleep in my lap as i spoke, and continued to brush my hand through her fur gently.
"Wow… you definitely experienced a lot…" Zuko spoke softly. "No wonder you've grown so much since when I last saw you. You've faced a lot of challenges..."
I shrugged. "My cousins helped me through everything. They are definitely an interesting group. Each of them has their own personality. And Aang is really sweet. I had fun most of the time… and got to learn a lot." I met Zuko's gaze. "I was surprised to see you yesterday… How did you know Aang was here?"
Zuko grimaced. He dropped his head and crossed his arms. "I was following my sister. I knew she was going after him. At first, I wanted to capture him before her. But then as I started fighting her, I lost focus on him and just wanted to make Azula lose… in the end she still won though… she escaped."
Iroh argued. "No. She did not win. The Avatar and Amara are still free, and no one was killed. I say that's a win for us." He stared at Zuko intently. "How was your time alone? Were you able to clear your thoughts?"
Zuko sighed. "No… I only got more confused."
"How so?"
Zuko tightened his fists on his lap. "I just… don't know what's right anymore." He shut his eyes and I saw he was trying not to cry. I was surprised by this. Zuko was letting his guard down again. I moved my hand to his fist, trying to offer some comfort. He calmed some and found his voice.
"Journeying on my own, I saw things… met people… thought about my past… this war has taken so much… from so many. I want to believe the Fire Nation will help this world by conquering it, but… I'm starting to doubt that. A young boy's brother was being forced to the frontline… he will probably die. That family will lose a son. And for what?" Zuko shut his eyes. "What more can the Fire Nation offer this land…? They don't want us here."
Iroh and I were stunned by Zuko's words. However, Iroh leaned forward to place a hand on Zuko's shoulder. "Sometimes we have to go on our own journey to see things for what they are. What you have witnessed and learned will only help you be a great Fire Lord one day. You've seen the world and understand things no Fire Lord before you has. You will lead the Fire Nation to greatness one day."
Zuko cringed. "But… How will I be Fire Lord? If I don't capture the Avatar then I'll never have the chance. And if I capture the Avatar… well then what about the rest of the world." He grit his teeth in frustration. "I just don't know what's right anymore…"
Iroh sighed. "That is something you must discover on your own, Prince Zuko. Whatever you choose, I will support you."
I was quiet after Iroh said this. I thought about his words. I would always root for Aang and my family, so I wasn't sure how I'd be able to support Zuko if he decided to continue to pursue Aang. Unless, of course, he changed sides and helped us defeat his father. But I could never ask him to do such a thing… I knew how much he wanted to go home...
Later that evening, I sat with Iroh and Zuko to observe the training that Iroh was giving. I protested at first, telling him he should rest one more day and then train tomorrow. He just pressed a reassuring hand to my shoulder and let me know my healing had given him all the strength he needed.
Iroh brewed his own tea before we started to train. Then once the tea was prepared, he gave a cup to each of us. We sat outside the building cross-legged as Iroh began his instruction. Ping sat behind us, napping. Iroh was relieved to see the ostrich-horse was in good health.
At first I wasn't sure if I felt like watching Iroh train Zuko, still a bit tired from the day before, but I decided to observe in case I wanted to try his teachings in the future when I was ready. Yuna curled up on my lap as Iroh started to speak.
"Your sister's greatest advantage is her ability to create and control lightning. This is a skill that you must be aware of if you ever come to face her again."
Zuko nodded. "I'm ready to learn. Anything to stop her from beating me again."
Iroh nodded. "Lightning is a pure expression of firebending, without aggression. It is not fueled by rage or emotion the way other firebending is. Some call lightning the cold-blooded fire. It is precise and deadly, like Azula. To perform the technique requires peace of mind."
Zuko stared down at his teacup. "I see. That's why we're drinking tea: To calm the mind."
Iroh was surprised by his statement. He quickly covered up the fact he just wanted a cup of his own tea and not Zuko's brew from earlier. "Oh yeah, good point! I mean, yes."
I smiled knowingly, and then sipped my tea. I sighed at the familiar warm blend. It was just as I remembered. I had missed Iroh's tea greatly. It helped ease my worries for the unknown future to come.
Once we finished our tea, we followed Iroh outside of the town to a cliff that overlooked a valley below. Iroh was surprisingly doing well with all the movement, and I could hardly see any discomfort in his expression from his burn. Either I had healed him better than I was giving myself credit for, or he was really good at hiding his pain. Yuna flew off to chase after a bug as Iroh started to demonstrate the technique to us. Ping had stayed behind at the town to graze on more grass.
"There is energy all around us," Iroh began. "The energy is both yin and yang; positive energy and negative energy." He held up a finger on each hand, holding them apart, as he named the energies off. "Only a select few firebenders can separate these energies. This creates an imbalance. The energy wants to restore balance and in a moment the positive and negative energy come crashing back together." He brought his hands together. "You provide release and guidance, creating lightning."
Iroh started to move his arms around then, and I was amazed when I saw a static charge begin to form where his fingers were. He brought his two hands together bringing the charges into one energy. Once he got the charge going to full capacity, he shot his arm out in front of him at an angle. Bright lightning shot off in the distance, thundering once it hit the sky.
As Iroh's fingers smoked from his strike, I felt shivers race through me. So much energy inside… What would happen if something went wrong?
Zuko wasn't as nervous as me. He was determined. "I'm ready to try it!"
Iroh rubbed the spot where his burn was. I realized his movements had probably aggravated it. I didn't comment on my concern though, not wanting to interrupt the training session.
Iroh spoke again as Zuko got in a stance. "Remember, once you separate the energy, you do not command it. You are simply its humble guide. Breathe first."
Zuko breathed in and closed his eyes. He started to move his arms the way Iroh had. I did not see lightning as he did, and knew he was having trouble getting the energy to flow. He lunged his hand forward, but instead of lightning he shot fire that exploded in front of him. He was thrown back and landed on the dirt hard. I gasped when I saw him wince in pain and rushed over.
Kneeling beside him, I asked, "Zuko… Are you okay?"
He let out a heavy breath. He then sat up with disappointment. "Yeah. But I don't get what I did wrong."
Iroh sighed. "This takes time and practice, Prince Zuko. But also, some do not have the ability. This is not something you need to be ashamed of."
Zuko got to his feet, helping me up as he did. He looked over at Iroh, asking, "Well if I can't create lightning then how will I possibly beat her?"
"There are other ways," Iroh began.
Zuko argued, "This is the way! I need lightning to stop Azula. She's too powerful. She'll beat me if I don't get this. I'm too weak to stop her right now."
I frowned. "Zuko… you're not weak. If you were you wouldn't have survived three years away from home…"
"Amara is right," Iroh spoke. "Your lack of confidence in yourself will restrict you from bringing the energies together. You must believe you can in order to do it."
Zuko shut his eyes, pondering over our words. Then he nodded and got back into a stance. "I'll try again."
So he did. He tried over and over and over again. Yuna had returned at this point, and sat with me as I sat beside Iroh to watch. I could tell with each fail that Zuko was starting to beat himself up. I hated seeing him so disappointed in himself.
As Zuko got blown back by an explosion for the tenth time, he laid on his back for a moment and clenched his fists. He asked with frustration, "Why can't I do it? Instead of lightning, it keeps exploding in my face! Like everything always does!"
Zuko stood, his fists steaming. My heart ached for him and his inability to properly do the move. I could see he was desperate to make it work, and he couldn't figure it out. I didn't offer to try with him though. I honestly had no desire to have lightning coursing through me.
Iroh spoke again. "I was afraid this might happen. You will not be able to master lightning until you have dealt with the turmoil inside you."
Zuko turned to Iroh with disbelief. "What turmoil?"
"Zuko, you must let go of your feelings of shame if you want your anger to go away."
Zuko argued, "But I don't feel any shame at all! I'm as proud as ever!"
I furrowed my brows. Proud? Earlier today he was doubting himself and the war. Of course, I knew the reason he wasn't thinking of that at the moment was because he just really wanted to do the technique.
Iroh explained. "Prince Zuko, pride is not the opposite of shame, but its source. True humility is the only antidote to shame."
Zuko muttered, "Well... my life has been nothing but humbling lately."
Iroh stood with a small smile to encourage him. "I have another idea. I will teach you a firebending move that even Azula doesn't know, because I made it up myself!"
I was surprised by this. Iroh had invented a move?
He turned towards me. "Amara… Why don't you try this one with us? This is actually a defensive move."
I nodded. Yuna hopped off my lap as I followed Iroh over to where Zuko stood.
"Wait here. I'll be right back," Iroh said. He walked off for a moment, disappearing into the trees nearby. As he was gone, I looked over at Zuko who still looked dismayed.
"Don't give up," I spoke softly. "You might still be able to do it."
He let out a deep breath. "I just feel like no matter what I do I always fail in the end…"
Yuna suddenly flew over and landed on Zuko's shoulder. She licked him on the cheek. He was startled by her action.
I explained. "She wants you to stop beating yourself up. I do too."
He gave a small smile as he stroked her feathers. "Sorry… It's just been a rough time. I'm doing a little better though having you both here."
His comment warmed my heart.
Iroh was suddenly back, carrying a stick with him. He stepped back over and sat down. Zuko and I sat with him, and Yuna returned to my lap. We watched as he started to draw symbols of the elements in the dirt.
Iroh spoke as he drew each symbol. "Fire is the element of power. The people of the Fire Nation have desire and will, and the energy and drive to achieve what they want... Earth is the element of substance. The people of the Earth Kingdom are diverse and strong. They are persistent and enduring... Air is the element of freedom. The Air Nomads detached themselves from worldly concerns and found peace and freedom. Also, they apparently had pretty good senses of humor!" Iroh smiled widely. I smiled too, thinking of Aang's playful nature. Iroh continued, "Water is the element of change. The people of the Water Tribe are capable of adapting to many things. They have a deep sense of community and love that holds them together through anything."
I thought about my family as he said the last part. He was right: my family seemed to adapt well to the changes that occurred around them. They also were loving and accepting towards me from the first time I met them. I would miss them… but I knew I would see them again one day.
Zuko brought me out of my thoughts when he asked, "Why are you telling me these things?"
Iroh answered. "It is important to draw wisdom from many different places. If we take it from only one place, it becomes rigid and stale. Understanding others, the other elements, and the other nations will help you become whole."
Zuko muttered, "All this four elements talk is sounding like Avatar stuff."
Iroh nodded. "It is the combination of the four elements in one person that makes the Avatar so powerful. But, it can make you more powerful too." He poked Zuko in the chest with his stick. "You see, the technique I am about to teach you is one I learned by studying the waterbenders."
I was amazed. "Really?"
He smiled over at me, putting the stick down. "How do you think I was able to teach you back on the ship? I have studied many different cultures and their bending styles."
He stood again, and we stood with him. Yuna sat a little ways away to watch us as we used the technique.
He got in a stance similar to the ones I used when waterbending. Zuko and I copied him.
"Waterbenders deal with the flow of energy. A waterbender lets their defense become their offense, turning their opponents' energy against them. I learned a way to do this with lightning."
Zuko was thrilled. "You can teach me to redirect lightning?!"
Iroh nodded. "If you let the energy in your own body flow, the lightning will follow it."
He moved his right arm at an angle into the air, and then pointed to his palm with his other hand.
"You must create a pathway from your fingertips up your arm to your shoulder and down into your stomach." He moved his finger along his arm, to his shoulder, and then to his stomach as he spoke this. "The stomach is the source of energy in your body. It is called the sea of chi. Only in my case, it is more like a vast ocean."
He laughed at his own words, and I laughed too. Zuko didn't react, too focused on the lesson.
Iroh went serious again and continued. "You direct it up again and out the other arm." He pointed off into the distance with his left arm this time. "The stomach detour is critical. You must not let the lightning pass through your heart…" He walked up to Zuko and pointed at his chest in the place his heart was. "Or the damage could be deadly. You may wish to try a physical motion to get a feel for the pathway's flow. Like this…" He pointed to the left with both of his arms. Zuko and I followed him, trying to mimic his moves. Iroh then took his right arm and pointed it in the other direction. We copied this move as well. "Now, are you focusing your energy? Can you feel your own chi flowing in, down, up, and out?"
Zuko answered, "I think so."
I shut my eyes as I repeated the move, feeling the similar energy I usually felt when I did waterbending. Honestly, I never would want to redirect lightning, but the move was good to know for the future. Especially since I was one of Azula's targets.
Iroh encouraged Zuko who was still not confident. "Come on. You've got to feel the flow."
I opened my eyes again to see Zuko was relaxing more and starting to get into the rhythm. I smiled. He really was starting to look like a waterbender with the movements.
Iroh was proud when he saw Zuko finally had the move down. "Excellent! You've got it!"
Zuko stopped and bowed to Iroh, thanking him for his teaching. He then stood straight with anticipation. "Great! I'm ready to try it with real lightning!"
Iroh was horrified. I was too. He quickly exclaimed, "What?! Are you crazy? Lightning is very dangerous."
Zuko became frustrated again. "I thought that was the point: You teaching me how to protect myself from it?"
Iroh waved his hands in disagreement. "But I'm not going to shoot lightning at you!" He turned his back from us. "If you both are lucky, you will never have to use this technique at all."
Zuko scowled. He looked out in the distance. I followed his gaze and saw a small storm had formed over a mountain. I had heard the thunder but hadn't thought much of it. There were flashes of lightning in the dark clouds.
"Well, if you won't help me, I'll find my own lightning."
My eyes widened when I heard Zuko. Zuko started to walk off back to town. I knew he was planning to grab Ping and ride into the storm. I rushed after him and grabbed his arm. "Zuko! Wait! Please… Calm down... This is too dangerous. You could get hurt…"
Zuko faltered in his step. He turned towards me, and I could see he was conflicted. However, he pulled from my hand and backed away. "I'm sorry… But I have to do this… I need to know I'm ready."
He left to go retrieve Ping. As he walked away, I watched him go with sadness. Iroh stepped over and placed a hand on my shoulder. "Let him go, Amara… He'll be alright. He has much he is fighting right now. Just give him time. Come help me find some food for dinner."
I was hesitant to follow him, but I knew he was right. There was no changing Zuko's mind. As Iroh and I started to walk off into the forest to find some food for dinner, I glanced back to see Zuko was on Ping and riding off towards the mountain where the storm was. Yuna sat on my shoulder and whined. I sighed and asked Iroh, "Are you sure he'll be okay?"
He sighed. "Yes. He just needs to sort out his thoughts right now. Let him be."
I crossed my arms. "Has he been like this since the North Pole?"
Iroh nodded. "Yes… he feels he has failed since he was unable to capture the Avatar that day. He also has been struggling with this new life, being out in the wilderness in enemy territory. Zuko misses many things. You being here has helped a little, but he is always going to long to go back home."
I nodded. "I guess for me, I never felt like I had a home to begin with… All I ever wanted was to just be free. So being in the Earth Kingdom, I'm just happy I get to see and experience new things. For him… I suppose if I had grown up in a palace without many worries, I would want to go back too."
Iroh placed a fatherly hand on my back. "I'm certain you've learned much about adapting and survival during these last few months. You must've been so happy to have gotten to meet your Water Tribe family finally..."
I smiled as I thought back to my time with my family. "I was… but being with them, I realized that you and Zuko became my family too. I was happy with them, but I missed you both dearly."
He nodded. "I missed you too, Amara… I meant what I said before I last saw you. You truly are a daughter to me."
My eyes watered. "And you're a father to me, Iroh. Which is why I couldn't abandon you when you needed me."
Iroh and I gathered some fruit and vegetables in the forest and headed back to town. As we did, Iroh told me about Zuko and his journey through the Earth Kingdom. He told me about their very long time drifting on a raft after the battle at the North Pole, and how they almost died. Then he told me about their time at the Fire Nation colony spa where Azula came to try and capture them. After they escaped Azula, they both cut their hair and started their days as outlaws. Iroh explained how he had eaten a plant that almost killed him, and they had to fake their identity in an Earth Kingdom village to seek treatment from a girl named Song. He told me how the girl and her mom gave them a wonderful dinner. Then he started to explain how Zuko only became more conflicted after, and started to steal to try and give them both a better life. I was sad to hear this.
"He's struggled so much," I whispered. "First his mom disappeared without a trace. Then his father burned and banished him… now he has no home or allies… I wish I knew how to help him, but he just has so much weighing him down. And I can't support him when it comes to capturing Aang. Aang's become a brother to me."
Iroh nodded. "Yes… I do not support his quest for the Avatar either… All we can both do is be there for him emotionally right now. He just needs family and comfort at this time."
"Yeah…" I looked back off towards the mountains where the lightning was still striking. "I just hope he doesn't get struck by lightning before we can."
Iroh sighed. "I pray to the spirits that does not happen either."
When we got back to town, we were both restless as we waited for Zuko and Ping to return. We ate some stew and fruit, saving some for Zuko when he did finally return. Yuna napped after she ate some fruit, and while she did I gave Iroh another healing session. He was so proud when he saw my bending, and he stated, "You have become such a talented waterbender."
I blushed. "I… had a really good teacher. Katara definitely is a master."
"And what of your dualbending? How have you gotten with that?"
I put my water back in my canteen after I was done healing Iroh. I sat cross-legged beside him as I answered, "I made an area of swamp boil to stop a crazy vine-monster, so I would say it's definitely improving."
Iroh was astounded. "Vine-monster? You left that out of your stories earlier."
I shook my head. "It was just a man bending the vines by using the water inside. Wasn't that exciting once we realized it was all a hoax."
This only intrigued Iroh more. "Fascinating. I never thought about waterbenders being able to manipulate water inside of things. I feel there are always new things to discover when it comes to the other nations."
I nodded. "I learned a lot from my cousins and Aang. I feel like these last few months of freedom have been nothing but a rush of new knowledge."
He smiled. "I can see that the chains that once held you down have been left behind. It's so good to see how far you have come since I first met you at Zhao's harbor."
I felt my throat tighten as my emotions welled up. "That feels like so long ago. I've been so happy… The past creeps up on me every now and then, but it's getting easier to let things go. I just wish I knew how Tu Lan was doing. He's the one person from my past I can't forget."
Iroh placed his hand in my own to give it a squeeze. "I actually received word from one of my connections a few weeks ago. I had been curious myself. Tu Lan is healing well in the Fire Nation Capital. He has gotten some mobility back since his injury. I actually sent a letter to him to let him know how you were doing as well. I'm certain he has received it by now and is more at peace knowing you finally met your Water Tribe family."
His words stunned me. My heart skipped. Tears fell, but they were due to my relief. I shut my eyes and said softly, "That's so good to hear… I've been so worried about him." Then I looked at Iroh again with suspicion. "You seem to have a lot of connections..."
He laughed. "I just have some old friends. That's all."
The sun was setting. Zuko still had not returned. I got restless and left Yuna with Iroh. I went outside the town to stare off at the mountain that Zuko had gone towards earlier. The storm that once hung in the distance was over. I hoped Zuko was okay and had not gotten seriously hurt.
Just as night started to fall, and fireflies came out, I saw a shadow in the distance. Ping appeared a moment later, and a tired looking Zuko rode on his back.
"Zuko…" I breathed in relief. I rushed forward and met him as he got to the wall of the town. He got off Ping and came over to me. I saw he was soaked from rain, but he seemed to be in one piece. "I was so worried."
He stepped over and pulled me into his arms. He hugged me tightly, and I hugged him back. I could tell he was still upset and weary, but that he was also glad to see me.
"Sorry for worrying you," he whispered. "I just needed to blow off some steam I guess… I'm okay."
I asked softly, "Did… did you redirect lightning?"
He sighed. "No… It's for the best. I don't think I'm ready. I understand that now. I'll keep practicing."
I nodded against him. "As long as you don't give up, then that's all that matters."
He pulled away slightly, and his hand cupped my cheek again. "I know… seeing you again… it's given me hope. Even though I've had so much bad luck, something good has finally happened. I'm starting to believe that things are finally beginning to change for the better."
I was surprised by his words, and then my cheeks burned from his touch. I nodded against his hand. "I believe that too…"
He leaned forward and I felt his breath brush against my face. "I've missed you, Amara… I'm so glad you're with me again."
I shut my eyes and placed my hand over the one still on my cheek. "I'm glad I'm with you too, Zuko."
We broke the distance then and kissed. Fireflies lit around us as our hearts both calmed and warmed from our moment of bliss. As much as I would miss my family, I was so glad to be back with Zuko.
I had missed him… and he had missed me…
I was happy and at peace...