Chapter 35: Another Path
I stared at the outfit I laid out with uncertainty.
We were planning to leave the abandoned Earth Kingdom town today and head east. Iroh was concerned that if we lingered too long there was a chance Azula would send someone to look here again for us. He did not want us to be captured. Since Zuko and Iroh were dressed in Earth Kingdom clothing it was best I did the same while traveling with them. We wanted to draw little attention to ourselves, especially since we were all wanted traitors to the Fire Nation.
Traitors… I understood why I was a traitor. But why Zuko? And Iroh? What had they done?
I knew the answer though… they had done nothing. The Fire Lord and Princess Azula were just cruel…
After rummaging through the town some, I entered what used to be a family home and found an abandoned outfit that looked to be in good condition and about my size. The pants were a dark green, and the shirt was a lighter shade with some short sleeves. The outfit looked to have belonged to a young woman, most likely my age or a little older. Thinking about someone I didn't even know made me sad. The war had run them out of their home… who knew if they had found a place or were still wandering as refugees…
After the outfit, I found some brown shoes as well that weren't too tight or loose. I had been wearing my Water Tribe clothing for so long, I was a little sad to trade them out. However, I knew this was the only way we'd travel without detection.
Once I changed, I washed my old clothes in a bucket of warm water, dried them by taking the liquid out, and then put them in my pack. After tying my hair up again with the blue ribbon, I made my way back to the building we had been staying in. The ostrich-horse I'd named Ping was waiting outside, and Yuna was sitting on his saddle. I pet them both, and then walked into the building. Zuko was placing some provisions in his own bag as I stepped into the room. Iroh was looking at a map that he'd had in his possession, trying to figure out our best course.
Zuko glanced over at me when he heard me return. He was surprised by my outfit. I felt self-conscious from the look he gave me.
"Is this okay? There wasn't much to choose from..."
He smiled and stood, slinging his pack on his shoulder. "Yeah. It's fine. You look pretty. Just not used to seeing you in those colors."
My heart fluttered at his compliment.
His eyes shot to my necklace then. "But… you may have to take your necklace off… just for now…"
My hand moved to my mother's necklace. I felt my heart twist at having to take it off, but I knew it would definitely draw some questions. "Right… I didn't think about it…"
I took the necklace off and placed it in my bag with my other clothes. I put the bag back on my shoulder in dismay. Zuko placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. "It's just for now... Until we find somewhere safe."
I gave a small nod. "I know… just feels weird to not have it."
Suddenly, Iroh let out a heavy sigh. We looked over at him, wondering what was on his mind. He found a spot on the map when he had our attention and pointed at it. "Looks like the best direction we should head right now is Misty Palms Oasis. I believe I may be able to get some help there."
Zuko was surprised by his uncle's plan. "Help? What kind of help?"
Iroh met his gaze and spoke firmly. "Your sister is after us, Prince Zuko. If she captures us, then we will be taken to a guarded prison and locked away forever. I will never allow Amara to be put in a cell again, so I want us all somewhere safe. There are many towns in the Earth Kingdom we could start a new life in. I have connections that I can get resources from and possibly a place to stay."
Zuko was appalled. "New life?! There is no life in the Earth Kingdom, Uncle! Our life is in the Fire Nation!"
Iroh stood and rolled up the map. He flinched slightly as he aggravated his injury. I wanted to offer another healing session, but I decided with the current conversation that it wasn't the best time.
"You will be in the Fire Nation again one day, Prince Zuko… but you must be patient and cautious until that day comes. If you go run after the Avatar right now, you will most likely have to face Azula again. We've already seen she is quite strong. With my injury, I won't be able to help you fight her. As the saying goes, 'A moment of patience can prevent a great disaster and a moment of impatience can ruin a whole life.' It is best we are well rested and prepared the next time we come in contact with her."
Zuko groaned. "I have no time for proverbs or waiting! If we go to an Earth Kingdom town and settle down then I will never find the Avatar! I let him go the other day because you were injured, but next time I won't! And if I don't get to him first, then Azula surely will! I can't let her beat me! The Avatar is mine!"
I crossed my arms as he spoke and pressed my lips to try not to speak. There was much I wanted to argue about. I always hated when Zuko went on about capturing Aang like he was nothing more than an object.
I decided I didn't really want to hear his plans for my friend anymore, so I turned and went back outside to hang with Ping and Yuna. Once I got out into the morning air, I let out a heavy breath as the argument continued inside. Yuna moved from the saddle over to my shoulder, and she licked my cheek sensing my dismay.
I spoke to them both softly. "I'm fine. I just wish there was a way Zuko could go home without capturing Aang… I can't let him hurt my friend…" Ping stepped closer to me and nudged me in the arm with his beak. I pet him on the neck, and then pet Yuna. "At least you both understand."
"Fine!" Zuko snapped from inside. "We'll go with your plan! But this changes nothing! He is still my mission!"
Zuko came out of the building then, and he let out a heavy breath. He pinched the bridge of his nose to try and calm his frustration. Once he collected himself, he finally stepped over to us. As he met my gaze, I dropped my head to look at the ground quickly. I didn't really want him to see I was upset. However, my feelings were written on my face. He noticed my action and mood immediately, but he misinterpreted what was on my mind.
"Sorry, Amara… I didn't mean to get upset. I think I'm just tired. I'm not mad," he reassured. "Hope I didn't make you too uncomfortable."
I only gave him a small nod to acknowledge his apology. My heart hurt though. My heart hurt because I cared about Zuko so much, but I didn't want him to succeed in capturing Aang. I needed a few moments alone to compose myself. I didn't want to be sour during our trip.
With a soft voice, I said, "I'm going to the stream to refill my water pouch… just in case we run into trouble… I'll be back…"
I started to walk away. As I headed towards the entrance to town, I heard Zuko follow me. "Amara… wait…" He grabbed my arm to stop me. "I know that look… what's wrong?"
His concern was to be expected. But I knew what I wanted to say to him would only upset him again. "I'm just tired too," I said softly. I looked over at him to give a small smile. "I'm okay. I'll be back as soon as I fill up. Promise."
He didn't let me go at first, sensing I was lying to him about being okay. However, he finally dropped his hand and gave a small nod. "Alright… Don't be long. We're getting ready to shuffle off."
I gave him a nod again, and then walked away. Yuna gave a small mew, sensing I was still upset. As we got out of hearing range, I whispered to her, "I wish I knew what to say… how to make him understand that Aang isn't just the Avatar… he's a brother to me… I care about Zuko so much. But I can't let him capture Aang. Everything's a mess, Yuna..."
Yuna mewed again and rubbed her head against my cheek to offer me comfort. I pet her in return, feeling my heavy heart ease slightly from her affection.
Third Person POV
Zuko watched Amara walk away with concern. As she walked off to fill her pouch, he debated following her and questioning her more. However, he knew it was best to give her space at the moment. She didn't seem like she wanted to talk to him about what was on her mind anyway. He let out a heavy breath and turned back towards the ostrich-horse that Amara had named Ping. He walked over to the creature and leaned against the wall.
Frowning, he crossed his arms and thought out loud, "What's wrong with her?"
Ping huffed in response.
Zuko glanced at the ostrich-horse with frustration. "I don't know what that means!"
Suddenly, Iroh stepped out of the building, his pack slung on his uninjured shoulder. He saw Amara was gone and Zuko looked disturbed. "What's wrong? Is Amara okay?"
Zuko sighed. "She went to fill up her water pouch... She seems upset though. I don't know what's wrong… I thought at first she was just wary because I lost my temper. But that didn't seem to be it."
His uncle stepped over with a frown. "No. That is not why she's upset."
Zuko looked at him with confusion. "Then why?"
Iroh let out a heavy breath. "Think about it, Prince Zuko… Amara journeyed with her family and the Avatar for some time. When you speak about capturing the Avatar, this is difficult for her to hear. The Avatar is no longer a stranger to her. He has probably become family. You have to understand that your desire to capture him is not something she approves of. While she loves you and wants you to be happy, she also cares about the Avatar and wants him safe. She was uncomfortable with our conversation earlier."
Zuko flinched. He knew his uncle was right. His heart filled with sudden guilt for upsetting her. "I know she cares about him… But he's the only way for me to go home…" He dropped his arms and hung his head. "I can't just end my mission. She has to understand that this is my only option… I won't let my father hurt him. But it has to be this way."
Iroh shook his head. "This is the only way you know of, Prince Zuko. However, I am certain there are other ways for you to go home. One day you will find another path."
Zuko scoffed. "The only other path is to turn against my people and take back my home by force. I'm certain that won't be favored in my father's eyes. I might as well join the other side of the war in that case!"
A silence fell between them for a moment. Both became lost in their thoughts. Then finally, Iroh asked, "What do you desire more, Prince Zuko: Your father's favor, or being Fire Lord?"
He was surprised by his uncle's question. He glanced at Iroh but hesitated on his answer. He dropped his gaze again when he finally spoke. "I… I have to earn back my father's favor to be Fire Lord… so both I guess…"
However, Zuko knew what he said wasn't really his answer. Zuko didn't care about his father's favor. His father had burned and hurt him. His father had sent Azula to arrest him and his uncle. He sometimes hated his father when he thought about all the man had done to him.
He also didn't care about being Fire Lord either. That had just been a perk with being a prince and next in line for the throne. Although, him being Fire Lord did sound a lot better than Azula...
No… Zuko knew what he really desired. He just wanted a home. He wanted a place where he could belong. He wanted to be happy and comfortable. He wanted to feel loved and safe. He wanted to know what happened to his mom, and hopefully find her. He wanted a family and friends. As he realized these were his desires, his uncle's question came back to his mind: What do you desire more?
Love… That was the answer… Zuko desired to feel love again…
Would he find this in the Fire Nation? Would being Fire Lord give him this? Would his father ever love him?
No… The only people he had ever felt loved by since his mom left were Iroh and Amara. He doubted his father would ever love him, or anyone else. All his father cared about was power.
Zuko sighed again. He was so confused about what the right thing to do was. He did not want to hurt the Avatar. He did not want people in the Earth Kingdom to suffer. But he also wanted his home back. How could he go home without capturing the Avatar?
He knew one thing for sure though: he had to talk to Amara. He had to let her know he understood why she was upset. He didn't want her to be uncomfortable with them. He wanted her to be happy… to not regret leaving her Water Tribe family to be with them.
He pulled away from the wall and started to head in the direction Amara had gone. He said to Iroh as he left, "I'm going to walk her back. Meet us at the entrance, Uncle."
He walked away from town, and then followed the path and footsteps that went towards the stream. When he arrived, he saw Amara kneeling by the water. She had placed her bag down and dipped her flask in the flowing stream to fill it. Yuna had caught a fish and was eating one last meal before their journey.
As he stepped out into the open, Amara jumped from the noise of a twig snapping. She stood quickly to turn towards the intruder. When she saw it was just Zuko, she let out a breath of relief. She put the cap back on her water pouch, saying with a small smile, "I almost attacked you. Don't sneak up on me like that."
Zuko stepped over to her, and he could see from her beautiful blue eyes that she was still somber. Her smile was fake, and he wanted to do what he could to make it real. He suddenly placed a hand on her cheek to feel her soft skin. She was puzzled when she saw the guilt cross his expression.
"Zu-"
"I'm sorry for upsetting you," he said, not giving her a chance to speak. She was even more confused by his second apology. He continued before she could lie to him that she was okay. "Uncle made me realize why you reacted the way you did. I know you're worried about the Avatar and your family. What will happen to them once I capture the boy… and what will happen to him… I didn't consider how much that would affect you."
She was surprised by his regret. She then let out a heavy breath. She shut her eyes as she took in his comforting touch. "It's just… I know to you he's just some spiritual being that will stop the Fire Nation… but… to me, he's a kid. And a brother." She opened her eyes again and met Zuko's gaze. "I know you want to go home. I understand that capturing him is what the Fire Lord wants you to do… but I can't let you do that, Zuko. I'll have to stand in your way to protect him if you try. You understand that, right?"
Zuko wasn't surprised by her words. However, they did upset him. He pictured in his head having to fight against Amara to capture the Avatar. He didn't like that image at all. He would never want to hurt Amara. He didn't think he would ever have the ability to fight her. He couldn't… he loved her too much...
He dropped his hand from her cheek. He turned his gaze back to the stream. "I just… I don't know how I'll ever be able to go home without him. He's the only way I've known for three years. Without him, my father will never lift my banishment. I… I just want to go home… I'm so tired of traveling and feeling like I have no identity."
Amara suddenly hugged him, and he was surprised by her embrace. He hugged her back though, feeling comforted by her action. He pressed his cheek against her hair, enjoying the warmth.
She spoke softly. "I know… I wish I had an answer for you… I mean, I have an idea… but you won't like it."
Zuko was curious. He pulled away slightly to look down at her. "I won't get mad… tell me…"
She hesitated. Zuko saw her face flash with uncertainty. However, she did finally tell him. Pulling away, she crossed her arms and stared at the dirt beneath her. Her eyes watered as she finally got everything off her chest.
"I've thought a lot about things since being with my family… I realized that being of two nations, I have a connection to the Fire Nation too. I care about Tu Lan, Jing, Ju, Fe, and so many other men I met on your ship. I worry about them… about their families. What will happen to them if Aang does defeat the Fire Lord… who will lead the Fire Nation?"
She paused. Her hand moved to the back of her neck, feeling anxious.
"Aang and I spoke at one point… he said that he would have to find someone to lead the Fire Nation once he stopped the Fire Lord. I know this will be hard for you to hear. You probably won't agree…" She breathed heavily again, trying to find her courage. "The Avatar could use your help, Zuko. The Earth Kingdom and Water Tribe need you… and the Fire Nation too. You could help us stop the Fire Lord and restore balance."
Zuko's eyes widened as he listened to her. The other nations needed him? He could help stop the Fire Lord? Become a true traitor to his father?
She continued as a thousand thoughts shot through Zuko's head.
"The Fire Lord is destroying this world. He is taking people from their homes and invading towns across the Earth Kingdom… He has destroyed families, just like his father before him. My mother was forced from her family because of this war, and never saw her home again. My aunt died protecting my cousins from soldiers that invaded the South Pole. There are kids in the Earth Kingdom that are orphans because of the fighting. Fire Nation families are even losing loved ones… Aang told me what the world was like a hundred years ago. Things were so much better before this war… when there was balance…"
She met Zuko's gaze again. He was listening in astonishment.
"The Fire Lord doesn't care about anything but power. He doesn't care who he destroys to get what he wants. He is leading his people down an unrighteous path. The Fire Nation has become nothing but a plague…" She took Zuko's hand suddenly and gave it a squeeze. "There needs to be a new leader… A Fire Lord who works on helping the world rather than destroying it… The Fire Nation needs help too. They need to know that this isn't the right way. You could be the one to show them, Zuko… You could be the Fire Lord that finally ends this hundred year war and puts the Fire Nation on a better path."
Zuko was silent as he went over everything Amara had said. He had seen the damage the Fire Nation had done to the world. He knew the Fire Nation had hurt people. Amara's mom was just one example. He had seen an Earth Kingdom family torn apart by the war. He had met a girl named Song who had been burned by a Fire Nation soldier.
But… Could he turn against his father? Could he join the other side of the war? Could he take the throne from his father to stop the Fire Nation from invading the Earth Kingdom?
He had been taught his whole life that the war was a good thing. He had been told that the other nations needed to be controlled by the Fire Nation because they were not living properly. He had been told that uniting the world into one nation was the right path. However, the Earth Kingdom hated the Fire Nation and what they were doing. How could they build a single nation on hate?
Amara was making perfect sense to Zuko. But he was scared to betray his people… to betray his father...
"I… I don't know… if I could turn against my people… turn against my father," Zuko whispered.
She squeezed his hand. "Is he really your father?" She dropped her gaze again. "One thing I learned from my own life… A father is not defined by the man that gets your mom pregnant. Admiral Gru… He was never my father. Just my prison warden… A father is someone who cares about and protects their child… when I think of my father, images of Tu Lan and Iroh come to mind…" She met his gaze again. "Is the Fire Lord really your father, Zuko? Because… I believe that fathers aren't supposed to hurt their children… and Ozai… it looks like he's hurt you more than you ever deserved."
Her last statement hit him hard. His eyes burned with tears as he realized Amara was right. He stared at the stream again. The only man he had ever felt loved and protected by was Iroh in the last three years. Iroh had been his father.
What did that make Ozai then?
He shut his eyes and his fists tightened. He recalled the day so long ago that his father burned him.
"Please, father, I only had the Fire Nation's best interest at heart! I'm sorry I spoke out of turn!"
Ozai stood before the thirteen year old form of Prince Zuko. His eyes showed no love as he stared down at the terrified prince.
Fire Lord Ozai snapped, "You will fight for your honor."
The thirteen year old Zuko was fearful. He shook his head. "I meant you no disrespect. I am your loyal son."
"Rise and fight, Prince Zuko!"
Zuko shook his head. "I won't fight you."
Fire Lord Ozai scowled. "You will learn respect, and suffering will be your teacher."
Zuko dropped to his knees, tears falling down his cheeks as he pressed his hand to the scar on his left eye. He recalled the pain. He recalled briefly hearing his father say, 'Get him out of my sight. I never want to see this traitor again.'
The Fire Lord showed no concern for his son's injury... no care… no love…
But Iroh… Iroh had loved him…
"Prince Zuko," Iroh said, stepping into the room where the thirteen year old prince was laying in bed. A bandage covered the left side of his face. He had sweat on his forehead from the pain and infection. He was in one of the servant quarters, being hidden away from the sight of his father and others. Iroh took a seat on the stool by Zuko's bed and spoke again. "I've prepared the ship. Once you are strong enough today, we will board and make way to the Earth Kingdom."
The young prince stared at the wall beside him with agony. "So… What the physician said is true… My father has banished me. I have to find this Avatar to come home…" He spoke with exhaustion. He felt so weak.
Iroh shut his eyes in dismay. "Yes…" He then opened them again and placed a hand on his nephew's arm. "But you are not alone, Prince Zuko. I will be with you every step of the way. Whatever you need, I will provide for you. From this point forward, I will protect you and care for you…"
Zuko shut his uncovered eye, and he let out a sob. "I… I don't want to leave home… I'm so scared uncle…"
Iroh grabbed the rag from the table beside him and wiped a tear that fell. "You have every right to be scared Zuko… but you have nothing to fear. I promised your mother I would look out for you a long time ago. I will keep that promise until my last dying breath."
"Zuko… I'm sorry," Amara suddenly said, and Zuko felt her arms again as she came on her knees beside him to hug him once more. "You… you wanted to know… but I… should've not said it..."
Zuko shook his head. In his mind he knew she was right. The Fire Lord was not a father to him. Only Iroh held that title. Ozai did not love him. Would he ever?
Amara POV
I didn't know what to do. Zuko was in agony. I had broken through to him in a way I didn't realize I would have. I had made him realize that the Fire Lord didn't love him. I had made him question everything he knew about the world. I was scared I had broken him.
But, his breathing calmed. The tears that were falling started to slow, and then finally came to a stop. He took a few moments to compose himself. Then he turned and hugged me close to him again. He seemed to hug me for a good two minutes, just taking in my warmth. He finally whispered, "I'll think about everything… It's just… a lot to ask... I need time. Be patient with me..."
He released me. Then he stood and stepped closer to the stream. He knelt down and threw some water on his face to try and wash away the evidence of his tears. Then once he was finally collected, he stood again and turned back to me. I was surprised to see that he looked… at peace...
He held a hand down towards me. "Come on… we should get back to uncle."
As we walked back, Zuko kept a hold on my hand. We were both quiet, but I was relieved that Zuko wasn't angry with me for what I said. Yuna landed on my shoulder again, and Zuko noticed. He smiled, changing the subject.
"You two are inseparable, it seems."
I shrugged my one free shoulder. "She's my comfort when I need it. Don't be too jealous. I still like you too."
He smiled more. "Good. Glad to hear."
We arrived back at town and found Iroh standing outside the gate with Ping. We did not mention to him our previous conversation. I knew I just needed to give Zuko time to think like he asked. I wasn't sure if he would ever truly consider switching sides, but he knew he had the option at least.
But… He was already a traitor in the Fire Lord's eyes… why not just make it official?
We started to head east just as Iroh mentioned we should. As we journeyed through the wilderness again, Iroh rode on Ping while Zuko and I walked. We didn't want the ostrich-horse to get tired from carrying all three of us. Yuna flew from tree to tree, chasing bugs and exploring. I was glad to see she was adjusting well without her buddy Momo.
We traveled most of the day. The sun was starting to set. As evening came, Iroh winced in pain. We had probably been traveling too long for his comfort. While his injury was better, there was still some skin that was damaged.
Zuko stopped Ping by grabbing his rein and looked at Iroh with worry. "Maybe we should make camp."
Iroh argued. "No, please, don't stop for me!"
"We have been traveling most of the day," I commented. "Misty Palms Oasis isn't going anywhere."
Zuko nodded. "Camp it is."
Iroh got off Ping and sat on a flat rock near us. He sighed in relief, glad to be sitting still for a moment. "Yes… I suppose rest is a good idea."
"I can go gather wood for a fire," I offered. However, Yuna suddenly hissed on my shoulder before I could. Ping became restless shortly after. My eyes widened as I heard the sound of twigs snapping around us, and heavy thudding footsteps.
Iroh heard as well, muttering, "What now?"
A group of familiar men suddenly appeared through the foliage on their komodo-rhinos. I was horrified as the Rough Rhinos appeared before me again. I backed away quickly, and Zuko stepped beside me. Iroh stood at this point from his rock, stepping past us with calm.
"Ah! Colonel Mongke! What a pleasant surprise!"
I was bewildered. Iroh knew these men?
The leader of the Rough Rhinos narrowed his eyes at Iroh. His gaze moved to me, and I felt my blood boil. The memory of him slapping Katara came back to me. I hated him even more than when I first met him. I could tell he was not here on a peaceful matter. He and his men looked determined.
Mongke moved his gaze from me back to Iroh with a scowl. "If you're surprised we're here then the Dragon of the West has lost a few steps."
His men started to inch forward on their komodo-rhinos to block us in.
Mongke looked at me again, and leaned forward. "I see you've changed company… Did your Water Tribe friend abandon you when she realized how dangerous it was to be with a freak like you?"
Zuko scowled, his fists steaming beside me. "Don't call her that!" He glanced over at me. "This is the group of men who captured you and your cousin?"
I gave a small nod. My hands were heating up too. I was ready to throw some fire.
"I'm surprised by this behavior," Iroh said in response to Zuko and I's conversation. He directed his words to us. "Colonel Mongke and the Rough Riders are legendary. Each one is a different kind of weapons specialist. They are also a very capable singing group." He spoke again to Mongke. "It saddens me to hear you were so cruel towards Amara and her cousin."
Mongke smirked. "Times have changed since we last saw you. You should understand we're not here to give a concert. We're here to apprehend fugitives! Three for that matter."
Iroh moved in front of the two of us. I could see from his stance he was prepared to fight. He spoke to the group with calculation. "Would you like some tea first? I'd love some. How about you, Kachi? I make you as a jasmine man. Am I right?"
Mongke smashed the armor on his arms together, creating sparks. He snapped, "Enough stalling! Round 'em up! And we need them all alive!"
The man with the bolo suddenly shot his ball and chain at Iroh. Iroh was ready to defend himself, and he kicked the ball away. The ball ended up wrapping around the leg of the komodo-rhino that the spear-wielding man was seated on. Mongke shot fire at Iroh as this all occurred, but Iroh easily dodged the flames by rolling on the ground. Then he got to his feet quickly and smacked the tied up komodo-rhino on the back. The komodo-rhino took off in a fright with his rider, and the bolo-man was dragged away.
Mongke growled and went to shoot another flame at Iroh. I moved forward, shooting my own fire at him before he could. Yuna had flown out of the danger at this point, and hissed from a tree nearby. As I fought Mongke, who dodged my fire blasts, I saw from the corner of my eye that Zuko charged at the archer-man. Iroh had moved on to face the man dressed in all armor. While they fought their opponents, I kept focus on Mongke who had dismounted his animal and was kicking a flame at me. I stumbled back to dodge, and then jerked water out of my pouch to shoot a stream at him. He gasped as my water smashed into his face, blinding him. While he was stunned, I shot another blast of fire at him. He felt the heat and dodged by stepping to the side quickly, but he did not send another blast as he tried to wipe the water from his eyes.
Ping suddenly ran in front of me, and stopped between me and my opponent. I was surprised to see Iroh had the reins and Zuko was seated behind him. They had managed to get away from their opponents.
Zuko reached his hand towards me. "Amara! Come on!" I took his hand quickly, and he helped me climb up to sit behind him. The extra weight surprisingly did not slow Ping down as we started to ride away. I held onto Zuko's waist as we rushed away from the Rough-Rhinos who were trying to recover from our attacks. A bomb appeared in our path suddenly as the fully armored man tried to pursue us, but thankfully we got past just as the blast went off. The smoke and debris created a barrier as we fled from the scene.
Yuna appeared, flying beside us as we moved forward to get distance from the Rough Rhinos. I was glad to see she was okay and not hurt by any of the men.
Iroh commented as we raced away, "It's nice to see old friends."
Zuko commented, "Too bad you don't have any old friends that don't want to attack you."
Iroh thought out loud, "Hmm... Old friends that don't want to attack me…" He then laughed. "No worries nephew! My friend at the Misty Palms Oasis will be much more generous than Colonel Mongke!"
I smiled slightly as Iroh tried to lighten the mood. I glanced back at the path behind us and was relieved to see none of the men were pursuing us. We had escaped.
I dropped my head against Zuko's back, suddenly exhausted. I loved being free from my Fire Nation family, but it was discouraging that so many were still after me and the people I loved. Azula was trying to capture us. The Rough Rhinos were trying to capture us. How many more would we have to fight off just to find some peace?
I then thought about my family. I recalled all the enemies we had faced as well during my time with them. They were not safe either. I prayed they would continue to avoid capture. I also hoped they were okay. The worst part about not being with them, was not knowing where they were or if they were safe.
"Amara… you alright?" Zuko sensed my exhaustion as he felt my hold on his waist weaken. He had also felt my head drop against him. The ostrich-horse had slowed as the danger passed. "You aren't hurt, are you?"
I lifted my head slightly and let out a heavy breath. "I'm fine… just tired…"
Iroh spoke. "There's a cave nearby. We've gotten enough distance from Colonel Mongke and his crew, so we should be safe for the night. Let's rest and then start again in the morning."
Once we pulled off the path and found the cave Iroh mentioned, we got off Ping who immediately rested on the cave floor. Yuna nestled beside Ping, exhausted as well. I pulled some fruit out of one of the packs and put the pile beside them. They ate as we continued to set up our sleeping arrangements. We decided a fire was not a good idea, wanting to avoid detection, so instead i cooked some rice in a small pot with my dualbending while Iroh heated us some tea.
As we ate our dinner, Zuko glanced at me with concern. I was silent and picking at my rice. My heart was heavy as I thought over the threats we had faced.
"Hey. You sure you're okay? You've been quiet since our fight with the Rough Rhinos."
I stared at my small bowl of rice with a frown. "I… I'm just frustrated…"
Iroh lowered his chopsticks. "What is weighing on you, dear?"
I sighed, placing my bowl down. I then stared out of the cave at the darkening world outside. "It's just… I finally am free from Zhao, and all the monsters of my past…" My eyes watered. "But there is still a chance all of this might be for nothing… a chance I might end up caged again… and others with me."
"Amara… We're not going to let anyone do that to you again," Zuko promised. "Azula isn't touching you. No one is. We are all going to be fine."
I shut my eyes. Tears slipped out and slid down my cheek. "As long as this war rages on, and the Fire Lord keeps spreading his control across the land, none of us will be fine…" I let out a heavy breath. "I'm just tired… tired of fighting just to finally have peace…"
The scars on my back tingled from the memory of my captivity. I looked at Iroh's shoulder where Azula (his own niece) had struck him. I then glanced at Zuko's scar… hurt by his own father…
"I'm tired of the pain this war brings to people of all nations." I looked back at my rice. "So many Fire Nation soldiers have died. A whole nation was wiped out, leaving Aang the last of his kind. My aunt and mother died protecting their family. Earth Kingdom citizens are losing their home and being forced to flee. Families have been ripped apart from all sides of this war. It's all just wrong… All of it… Sometimes… sometimes I miss being ignorant to the terrors outside my prison. I didn't realize freedom would be so fragile…"
Third Person POV
Amara slept on her sleeping bag with Yuna beside her. She had fallen quiet after she spoke to Iroh and Zuko, and then decided she just wanted to go to sleep. Zuko had listened to her words, and his heart hurt at the pain behind them. Amara had spent her whole life imprisoned because of the war. She had escaped, only to find that so many were trying to take that freedom away from her.
Zuko knew Amara was right… As long as this war raged on, she would never be happy. And one thing Zuko had always desired was to make her happy. He knew what he had to do… he had to make this world better for her.
He cared more about her happiness than the Fire Lord's… He knew his uncle was right all along. There was another way for him to go home. There was another path for him to redeem himself. He didn't need his father's approval. He just needed friends and allies… he needed to do the right thing. Not just for Amara, but for his people…
Iroh sipped his tea and then let out a heavy breath. "There has been heavy conversation tonight."
Zuko was still sitting where he had been for the last hour. "Uncle…" He started to ask a question, but then he stopped. Iroh placed his cup down to let Zuko know he was listening. The young prince finally spoke. "Do you think my father would ever let me come home without the Avatar?"
Iroh frowned. He shut his eyes knowing his answer would not please Zuko. "Unfortunately, I do not believe Ozai would. You have to understand something, Prince Zuko… Fire Lord Ozai is not a forgiving or understanding man. He only cares about power. He lost sight of the importance of family a long time ago."
Zuko shut his eyes as his heart ached. "If I captured the Avatar, would he even love me?"
"Ozai has never loved anyone since your mother, Prince Zuko… The love you desire from him is something you will never find. He may accept you back home with the Avatar, but he will never care about you as a father should… If he did, he would've let you come home a long time ago."
Zuko sighed. "I was afraid you'd say that… Amara made me realize this earlier today. I understand now… The only father I have ever had is you…"
Iroh was stunned by Zuko's words. Then he smiled slightly. "I have always thought of you as a son, Prince Zuko."
Zuko met his uncle's gaze. His eyes watered again as he noted his uncle's sincerity.
"Thanks, Uncle." Zuko glanced back over at Amara. His pained heart was lightening slightly. He looked back at Iroh again as he spoke something he never thought would come out of his mouth. "Uncle… If… if I were to actually do it… if I was to help stop the Fire Lord… do you believe the Fire Nation would accept me as their leader? Do you think I could help restore balance?"
Iroh was stunned by his nephew's question. He could not believe his nephew was truly considering turning against Fire Lord Ozai. However, he knew exactly who had changed his heart.
Iroh composed himself from his shock and spoke calmly. "Not alone. You will need the Avatar."
Zuko flinched. "I just… I don't know if the Avatar will even want my help. I haven't been the nicest person to him."
"No… but unlike Fire Lord Ozai, the Avatar knows how to forgive. If you truly want to help him stop this war, Avatar Aang will sense your sincerity."
Zuko nodded.
"But I must ask, Prince Zuko… why the change of heart?"
The young prince looked over at Amara again. She was a girl of the Fire Nation and Water Nation. She was a girl hurt by this war more than he would ever truly know… She was a girl he loved dearly…
All he wanted was to protect her and make her happy.
He answered his uncle finally. "You and Amara opened my eyes… being a wanted traitor has too… I realize I never did anything worth banishment. I spoke out of turn, and refused to fight the Fire Lord. I wasn't breaking any rules. I just made him look bad, and suffered the consequences… I understand now that if I capture the Avatar, nothing will change. He won't love me… not like you and Amara do…" Zuko glanced back at Amara. "And all I want is to help Amara be happy. If ending this war is what she wants, then I'll gladly do it."
Iroh smiled. He was glad to hear. "You are brave, nephew. And I am proud of you for finally seeing another path. The first step then is to find somewhere to hide from Azula and other bounty hunters. Once we are safe, I will use my connections to try and locate the Avatar and get a message to him. He will be hesitant at first, but I'm certain with Amara's help he will learn to trust you like she does. So will her family."
Zuko nodded. Then he asked softly, "Do you think I can do it uncle? Do you believe I can take the throne and stop this war?"
Iroh nodded. "I have always believed in you, Prince Zuko. So has Amara. And so did your mother… she believed you would one day follow in her grandfather's footsteps. She believed you would try to restore peace like he did a hundred years ago."
Zuko was puzzled. "Her grandfather?"
Iroh sighed. "I was told to wait until you were ready. Now that you have chosen your own path, I will reveal to you something that only few know. The reason your mother was chosen as Ozai's bride… there was a prophecy that stated that a royal descendant of Avatar Roku would bring great power to Azulon's lineage."
"Avatar Roku…?"
Iroh nodded. His eyes stared deeply into Zuko's. "You are the great-grandson of Avatar Roku. And it is your destiny to restore the Fire Nation to a righteous path."
Zuko's eyes widened. His heart skipped. "You mean… I'm connected to the Avatar?"
Iroh nodded. "Like I said… destiny is a funny thing… I believe you and Amara were meant to cross paths for this very moment. You have finally broken away from your father's control and are following your heart. This is what I have always wanted for you, Prince Zuko. To think for yourself and do the right thing."
Zuko was still stunned by Iroh's reveal. His mind was swirling with thoughts of his mom and her past. He was bewildered that he was related to Avatar Roku.
All this time, he did have two paths…
He was ready to do the right thing… he was ready to make his uncle, mom, Avatar Roku, and Amara proud.
He was ready to help the Avatar stop this war…
Because he knew as long as Ozai sat on the throne, Amara would never truly be safe. And she was what mattered to him the most.
It was time for Zuko to regain his honor. It was time for him to finally choose the right path.
"I'm not sure what I can do," Zuko spoke softly. His eyes landed on Amara's face again which looked more peaceful than it had all day. "But I will do all I can to make this world safe for her… All I want is for her to be happy…"
Iroh shut his eyes. He felt overcome with relief by his nephew's change. His work had finally paid off. He had Amara to thank for it though. Amara had broken through the walls of Zuko's heart and set his nephew free. Fire Lord Ozai no longer had control over Zuko.
Zuko was finally on the right path.
A/N
So… yeah. Zuko knows stuff he didn't find out until season 3. I'm trying something that completely veers off from how the show goes. Not sure if people will like it, but I always felt Zuko should've realized how cruddy his father was from the beginning… they will still be going to Ba Sing Se, there will just be changes… anyway, not sure when the next chapter will be due to school, but like i said, I do want to finish this story.