Chapter 40: Redemption

Iroh beamed with delight as he stood at the door that led to the back of the tea shop. The tea shop was called The Jasmine Dragon, and Iroh had just met his staff. There were female greeters whose job it was to take people to their seats, and male servers who took people's orders and delivered the tea and pastries. The staff had already been working there before Iroh took over, and they were excited by their new employer. Of course, Iroh introduced himself as Mushi so he could keep up his disguise. The shop was pretty big, with many tables and beautiful decor. Zuko asked what happened to the previous owner, and Iroh informed him that Kyro was that person. The tea shop was actually owned by The Order of the White Lotus.

For most of the morning Zuko and I helped Iroh in the back of the shop making tea and pastries. There was another cook that worked there, and Iroh quickly educated the man on how to brew real tea. Zuko and I were amused by how flustered the man was under Iroh's training. Once the cook got the hang of it though, Iroh went out to see how the guests were doing.

As Zuko and I watched Iroh go out and mingle with the men and women being served, I smiled. Iroh looked so happy. "He loves it here," I commented.

Zuko nodded. "Yeah. He's always wanted to open a tea shop… he mentioned it many times on our journey. Looks like he finally got his wish."

"Do you think… he'll end up wanting to stay here when the war ends?"

Zuko frowned. "I don't know… I was kind of hoping he'd come back to the palace once I become Fire Lord… I'll be… lonely… if he's not there."

His words pierced through me. I realized Zuko was right. Once we defeated Fire Lord Ozai and Princess Azula, all Zuko would have was his Uncle. At that moment, I started to question whether going to the South Pole after the war was the right decision. Zuko would need me once the Fire Lord was defeated… and I really didn't know anything about the Southern Water Tribe. I'd probably be an outsider there… Maybe the Fire Nation really was where I belonged?

Turning, I went back into the kitchen area and walked over to the open window where Yuna was perched. Stopping beside her, I pet her gently as I looked out the window at the people walking in the distance. I did wonder how the Fire Nation differed in both architecture and appearance. I had only known a few people during my time in the Fire Nation, and most of them were guards and servants. I wanted to see the Fire Nation again, and actually learn about it. However, the thought of wanting to be in the Fire Nation made me feel guilty because I was considering not being with my Water Tribe family.

Zuko suddenly stepped beside me. "Did I say something wrong?"

His question surprised me. Then I felt ashamed for making him worry. "No. It's not you. Sorry. I've just had a lot on my mind today. If we receive word about my family, I'm just nervous how they will react to everything. To me, you're so kind and caring. But… to them, you're someone they believe is constantly trying to pursue Aang. I'm worried they won't give us enough time to speak before lashing out at you."

He placed his hand against my cheek and brushed his thumb gently on my skin. He whispered so that the cook on the other side of the room couldn't hear. "Don't worry about that… Like I said… I'm ready for whatever may come towards me. I've hurt your cousins and the Avatar in the past… I deserve their spite. I'll do my best to convince them I've changed."

I gave a small nod. "I just don't want them to hurt you."

He smiled reassuringly. "I don't think they will. I don't know why… but I have a good feeling about this. I think it's all going to work out."

Yuna chimed, "Mew-Hoo!"

Zuko smirked. "See. Even Yuna agrees."

I smiled only slightly. "Okay."

However, I was not reassured for long. The day went by, and I only got more anxious as we waited for news about my family. I really wanted them to accept Zuko and believe him, but I knew that was wishful thinking. The way my family had spoken about Zuko in the past had me nervous they wouldn't want to listen.

It was just an hour before the tea shop was to close when a young man in a plain green shirt and some dark black pants arrived. He was looking to speak with the owner of the shop. A server came to get Iroh, who quickly ordered that the messenger be brought back into the kitchen area. The young man entered the room and bowed to Iroh with respect.

"Sir. I was sent by Kyro to deliver this message to you." He handed a rolled up parchment over to Iroh. "Kyro also wanted me to add that he has started to put out word about the Avatar's bison for you. If we hear anything, we will notify you immediately." He backed away, bowed again, and then left.

Iroh opened the parchment once he was gone, and read the contents. Zuko and I waited for him to tell us what the message was.

Iroh smiled. "Good news. It appears your family and the Avatar are staying in the Upper Ring's government district. A map has been drawn out for you to find their residence."

My heart jumped with thrill. My family had gotten into the city safely after all. They had defeated the machine that was trying to break through the wall. They were okay…

"You both must head out before it gets dark. You'll find your way better with some light."

Iroh handed the parchment to Zuko, who looked at Iroh with surprise. "You're not coming?"

Iroh shook his head. "This is something that you must do without me, Prince Zuko. You will be redeeming your honor today by joining the Avatar. This is your moment and I will not take that away."

Zuko stared down at the parchment. "My honor…" He let out a heavy breath. "Who would've thought the way to redeem myself after all these years is by becoming a traitor to end a hundred year war?"

Iroh placed a hand on Zuko's shoulder to give him comfort. "I am so proud of you for this step. So is your mother and Avatar Roku. This is indeed the best way to honor your ancestors. The Fire Nation needs you as their leader in the future. You are the path to redemption for our people. You will be a fine Fire Lord, and restore the Fire Nation to its former glory."

Zuko let out a deep breath, and then rolled up the parchment. He smiled at Iroh with gratitude. "Thanks… I couldn't have gotten this far without you, Uncle."

Iroh's eyes watered. "You are a brave young man… and so good… the Avatar will see your heart. He will listen to you."

I crossed my arms. "It's my cousins I'm more concerned about," I muttered.

Zuko grimaced. "Yeah… but I don't blame them if they lash out. I attacked them both, and tied them up. I'm sure I'm not on either one of their good sides."

Iroh encouraged the both of us. "With Amara there, I have a feeling things will go just fine."

I nodded. Yuna flew from the window and landed on my shoulder. I smiled slightly and stroked her wing. "Ready to see Momo again."

Yuna purred, and I knew that was a yes.

I looked over at Zuko, who met my gaze with determination. He spoke with reassurance. "It will work out… I know it will."

I nodded. "They'll listen… they have to… I'll do all I can to convince them to hear us out."

Zuko took my hand then, and he started to lead me out of the back door of the shop. I looked back at Iroh and saw he had shut his eyes and was smiling. I smiled too. Iroh's work had finally paid off. His nephew was taking the right path at last.

We walked in silence through the streets of the Upper Ring. Zuko stared down at the map, keeping us on course so we could get to the right building. As we walked, I thought about all the possible scenarios that could occur. Zuko could be immediately attacked… I could be accused of betraying everyone for bringing him to them… Or they could be calm and willing to listen… the possibilities were endless.

After a good mile, Zuko stopped suddenly. I stopped beside him, looking at him with question. The sun was still setting behind the wall of Ba Sing Se, so we could still see pretty well. He looked at the house we had stopped in front of, and then back down at the map. "Well… looks like this is it…"

The building was pretty large, although it was not as big as other places we had seen in the Upper Ring. The building was raised, and there were stone steps leading to a wrap-around porch. The doorway was centered past a stone archway, and the slanted roof was golden in color. It was definitely a fine place of residence for the Avatar and his company.

The thought of my family being inside gave me mixed feelings. I was excited to see them, but scared of their reaction to Zuko.

"This is going to work out," I said softly, trying to reassure myself and Zuko. Yuna waited patiently on my shoulder as I hesitated. "I'll go first. Try to cool the air. Then you can come in."

I went to step forward, but Zuko grabbed my hand to stop me. I looked back and saw he was uncertain. "I… I don't know… how they'll react… I've done so much wrong to them. I'm so nervous…"

I turned and placed my hand over his. I met his gaze and spoke with sincerity. "They'll probably be mad at first… but I know my family and Aang. They have good hearts. When they see you're sincere about all of this, I know they will listen."

He let out a heavy sigh, but gave me a nod. He released my hand and half-smiled. "Okay… I'm right behind you."

I nodded. Turning, I walked up the stone steps to the wooden door. I could hear voices inside, and although I couldn't make them out I had a strong feeling they were indeed my family. My heart warmed as I thought about seeing them again. It hadn't been too long since we were last together, but our time apart had made me worry and miss them.

I knocked on the door then. Zuko had come up beside me, but moved against the wall of the building so he wouldn't be seen when the door opened. The voices had gone quiet when I knocked, and I heard footsteps as someone approached to see who it was.

The door opened. Yuna immediately flew inside past the one who opened the door, and I heard a "Mew-Hoo" followed by Momo's chatter. Aang's voice exclaimed with delight from inside, "Yuna!"

Sokka was the one who opened the door. He was shocked when he took in my presence. Then he was relieved. "Amara!" He pulled me into the house, and immediately hugged me once I was inside. "I told them you'd find us again! They didn't believe me!"

I felt tears form in my eyes as I took in my cousin's familiar warmth. He looked and sounded just as he did when I last saw him. I was so glad to see he wasn't hurt and looked healthy. "Sokka… It's so good to see you."

As soon as he pulled away, I caught sight of Katara's bewildered expression. Then her eyes watered. "AMARA!" Katara rushed forward and threw her arms around me with relief.

I hugged her back, so glad to see she was okay too. "Hey Katara… It's good to see you too."

She hugged me closer, not wanting to let me go. "We've been so worried about you. What are you doing here?! How did you know where to find us?"

I answered. "I heard you all were headed to Ba Sing Se after losing Appa… We learned where you were staying once you got in the city, so we came as soon as we got the message."

She jerked away from me then. Her eyes stared at me with confusion. "Wait… We?"

Zuko took that as his cue and stepped through the doorway. Immediately the delight in the air vanished, and tension started to build. Sokka jerked his boomerang out from behind him, and Katara opened her pouch, pulling a stream out. Aang, who had been observing everything from the side of the room, grabbed his staff, but he was more confused than angry. Toph stood in the background, listening to all that was occurring.

Zuko's voice came out, although I could hear the anxiety in his tone. "Hey… Zuko here…"

Katara scowled. "Clearly!"

Sokka gripped his boomerang tighter. "Not for long!"

I quickly stepped between Zuko and my cousins, not wanting them to hurt him. "Wait! I can explain!"

"Amara! Move!" Sokka ordered.

Zuko spoke up. "I'm not here to attack anyone. I just want to talk. I swear."

"Right! Like we were born yesterday!" Sokka snapped. "How did you get into Ba Sing Se?!"

"That's what we need to talk about," I insisted. "Please, everyone calm down."

Zuko stepped beside me and got on his knees. He bowed his head to show he was surrendering. "I'm not here to fight. I've come with no intention of violence or plans to capture the Avatar."

"Like we believe that!" Katara snapped. "There's only one reason you'd be here!"

"I know what this looks like, but just let us explain," I begged. "Please, hear us out."

Katara glanced at me with disbelief. "Explain what? We all know he's only here to capture Aang!"

Sokka pointed his boomerang towards Zuko, asking, "How did you even find us?!"

Toph listened to everything with uncertainty. From the corner of my eye I could see she didn't know if she should intervene. Aang seemed unsure what to do as well.

"Please… if you just listen, then you'll understand," I promised. I moved forward and put my hand on Sokka's arm, hoping my touch would cool him down. Instead, he grabbed my arm and forced me to his side. I gasped from the sudden pull.

"There's nothing to explain, Amara!" Sokka continued to point his boomerang at Zuko while keeping a grip on me. "He's only here to deceive us so he can grab Aang when our guard's down!"

Katara nodded, glaring down at Zuko. "Exactly! He's been chasing us for months! He only wants to capture Aang and take him to the Fire Nation! He's the enemy!"

I tried to pull from Sokka. "Just hear him out! He's telling the truth. He doesn't want to fight! He just wants to talk to you."

"There's nothing he will say that will change our minds," Sokka argued. "There's only one reason he'd come here."

I feared things were going to end terribly. However, Aang finally spoke up. "Stop! Everyone calm down!"

The room went silent from his order. Sokka and Katara glanced over at him with disbelief. After a moment, Sokka argued, "Aang… We can't trust him."

Aang frowned. He glanced over at me, and then at Sokka. "But we can trust Amara… Let's hear what he has to say."

"What he has to say is probably nonsense!" Sokka snapped, finally letting me go. "He's the son of the enemy!"

Aang let out a deep breath. "That may be… but… once long ago he saved my life from Zhao. And he's saved Amara's life many times too… I just… I think we should hear what he has to say. There's just something telling me that we should give him a chance."

Katara interjected. "Last time you listened to that something we ended up stranded in a swamp searching for Appa and Momo!"

Aang shook his head. "This time is different. I don't know… there's just something telling me that I need to hear what he has to say. Let's give him a chance."

Zuko looked up at Aang with relief. I felt my pounding heart calm. The tension in the room slightly faded as Aang took charge. Sokka lowered his weapon, and Katara returned the water to her pouch.

Sokka let out a heavy breath. "Fine… He has five minutes to say what he needs to. Then we strike."

Aang stepped forward, gripping his staff. He looked down at Zuko who was still on his knees. "Okay, Prince Zuko… I'm listening. What do you have to say?"

Zuko hung his head. He gripped his knees and took a moment to compose himself. He shut his eyes and took in a heavy breath. Finally, he found his voice. "Avatar Aang… I'm sorry."

The room fell into a dead silence as his words hovered. The sound of Prince Zuko apologizing had everyone in disbelief. Aang was even taken back by his apology.

"I'm sorry for everything I've done to you. The endless days of chasing you, and constantly trying to capture you. For hurting you the day we first met, and hurting your friends… I've done so many things I regret. Made so many mistakes. I'll never be able to apologize enough for each wrong I've done."

He let out another heavy breath. He looked up and met Aang's astonished gaze.

"Avatar Aang… I know you have no reason to trust me. My great-grandfather Sozin destroyed your people… my father and his father have taken so many lives, destroyed so many homes, and brought this world into chaos. For most of my life, I believed that the Fire Nation was on a righteous path. I believed in the mission that my Great-Grandfather Sozin set out to accomplish. For almost three years, I searched for you so that I could ensure the Fire Nation's victory. I was blind to the truth, and controlled by my father."

He hung his head again. I could tell that with every word he spoke a weight was being lifted from his shoulders.

"I always thought that earning back my honor and my father's love by capturing you was my mission. For three years, I journeyed across the world, searching for the one thing that could stop the Fire Nation from victory. I didn't care about anything but myself…"

He looked up again and met my gaze. He smiled slightly and I smiled back. He looked back at Aang again.

"But… then I met Amara… I started to learn the truth about the war. I started to see for myself the damage that my people had caused over the last hundred years. Families destroyed… parents killed… children imprisoned… Amara helped me see the darkness, and understand that things need to change. She helped me realize that there was a different path I could take to earn back my honor. My Uncle also informed me that my destiny all this time has been to help you."

Zuko bowed his head again.

"My great-grandfather Avatar Roku set out to restore peace over a hundred years ago. Today, I will continue his wishes. Whatever you need, Avatar Aang… I will do everything in my power to help you stop my father and end this war."

Complete silence…

Everyone in the room was in shock. They didn't know what to say. Aang's eyes were wide, stunned by Zuko's reveal of his heritage. Sokka's jaw had dropped, and Katara was frozen in bewilderment. Toph had her eyes shut, as if she were concentrating really hard on something.

Finally, Aang found his voice. "Did you… just say… Avatar Roku was your great-grandfather?"

Zuko nodded. "Yes. My uncle informed me of this recently. My mother's name is Ursa. Her mother was Rina, daughter of Roku and Ta Min."

Katara spoke up suddenly. "That's insane! There's no way he's telling the truth!"

Toph spoke for the first time since our arrival. "He is."

Everyone but Aang looked over at her with shock. Sokka asked, "How would you know that?"

She explained. "I can feel his breathing and heartbeat. When people lie, there's a physical reaction. He's telling the truth. About everything… He really does want to help us."

"We don't need his help!" Katara argued. "What could he possibly do for us?"

Aang was still staring at Zuko with astonishment. His eyes then shot over to me, and back to Zuko. He loosened the grip on his staff, and then shut his eyes. He took in a deep breath, and I saw the tension in his body finally fall away.

"I can't believe I'm saying this… but I believe you, Prince Zuko."

My racing heart started to calm from his words. Zuko looked at Aang with relief.

Sokka was appalled. "What? Really?"

Aang nodded. He spoke directly to Zuko. "The day I first met Amara, I watched you in the distance. Before that day, I could only see you as a cold-hearted prince. But, after I saved Amara from that bounty hunter, and saw your concern for her, I realized there was more to you than I originally believed. The day you rescued me from Zhao only confirmed this further… You could've captured me in the forest then… But you didn't. You let me go. And then at the North Pole… When Amara was injured you brought her to us, despite the possibility of you being captured. I saw good in you… I didn't want to… but Amara spoke about you a lot, and she talked about another side of you that I believed to be true. It's hard to forget the things you put us through, but I can forgive you."

Zuko let out a breath of relief. I did too.

"Aang… even if he's changed, we don't need him," Katara argued.

Aang shook his head. "We do. Not only can he help us defeat the Fire Lord, but he can teach me firebending. I always feared I would never find a teacher because of the war. Zuko can be my teacher though. He's clearly a master. I think this was destiny all along. I believe Zuko was meant to be my teacher from the start."

"Yeah… He's already taught you a lot by making us dodge fireballs," Sokka muttered.

Zuko flinched from my cousin's spite. He looked over at Sokka with sincerity. "I'm really sorry… about all of that."

Katara rolled her eyes. "Sorry doesn't cover it! You made our journey to the North Pole exhausting! Do you know how many endless nights we had trying to run from you?! Not to mention all the times you hurt Aang, captured us, and attacked us! Why would we trust you after everything you put us through?"

I stepped over to Zuko then and grabbed his arm. I pulled him up to his feet, and then looked over at Katara. "I know you're angry, Katara… You have every right to be. But Zuko isn't the bad guy. He was lost and confused, and he finally found the right path. He wants to help us make this world a better place for everyone. He truly is sorry for everything he did to you all in the past. He wants to make things right."

Katara looked like she wanted to argue again. However, when she saw the tears sliding down my cheeks, she let out a deep breath and crossed her arms in defeat.

Aang spoke again. "I'm still wondering… How did you get into the city? How did you find us?"

Zuko answered. "My Uncle… he seems to have a lot of connections."

Toph asked, "He's okay then?"

I answered. "Yeah… I was able to heal him up okay." I glanced over at Katara again. "I learned from the best."

Katara met my gaze. Her tense body finally relaxed. She smiled slightly. "You're a good student."

Sokka wanted more of an explanation. "So your Uncle knew someone in the city?"

Zuko nodded. "He's part of a secret organization. I'm not sure if you've heard of it or not. The Order of the White Lotus helped us evade being captured for the bounty on our heads, and they also helped us get safe passage into the city."

Aang was stunned. "The Order of the White Lotus? I haven't heard about them before. Are they on our side of the war?"

"Yes," Zuko answered. "They are represented by people of all four nations who are seeking to restore the world to peace. It seems my Uncle has been part of the organization for many years."

Toph spoke up again. "You said there's a bounty on your head?"

Zuko sighed. "My sister wants to have my uncle and I arrested. She has called us traitors to the Fire Nation because we failed in capturing the Avatar. She's also after Amara for being a dualbender. Two men tried to apprehend us at Misty Palms Oasis, and The Order of the White Lotus helped us escape."

I spoke up. "Master Yu and Xin Fu… I think they were looking for Toph, but the reward on our heads was too hard to pass up."

Toph was stunned. Then she scowled. "My father's crossed the line sending those bimbos after me."

"Honestly, it doesn't surprise me," Sokka said. "Your dad's a bit of a control freak."

Toph crossed her arms and huffed. "Just when you think you're free of someone they try to drag you back."

Katara walked over and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "No one's forcing you back, Toph. They have to go through us before they can."

"I doubt they know you're in Ba Sing Se anyway," Aang reassured. Then he looked back over at Zuko. "So… you really mean it?"

Zuko nodded. "Every word."

Aang continued. "Even if it means turning against your own father… turning against the Fire Lord?"

Zuko frowned and hung his head. "That man is not my father… Amara made me realize this. A father doesn't burn his son and banish him."

Aang gasped. He stared at Zuko's scar in horror. "So it's true… Your father… he really is the one that gave you that scar?"

Zuko shut his eyes. I hugged him, sensing he was in pain from the memory. He hugged me back, answering, "Yes… I spoke out of turn during a war meeting and he wanted to punish me. He ordered me to fight him in an Agni Kai and I refused. He burned me and banished me for defying him."

"Man," Sokka muttered. "I always wondered about your scar, but I never thought your own father would do something like that to you."

Zuko sighed. He pulled away from me and looked around the room at the others. "I've spent three years with nothing but anger and resentment. I was blinded by the control my father had over me, so most of my anger became directed towards the Avatar. That was wrong though… The anger and resentment I held in me for so long was directed at the wrong person. The one who hurt me and forced me away from home is the one I despise the most. I will do all I can to help you stop that monster."

Aang nodded and his lips pulled up slightly. "I had hoped that one day you would change your ways and we could be friends. I guess I know why I wanted that so bad now… You're connected to me through Avatar Roku. Who would've thought Prince Zuko had such a heritage."

Zuko smiled. "Yeah… It's pretty cool."

Toph added, "Guess you should start calling Aang your great-grandpa then."

Aang shrugged. "He's not really my great-grandson. We're just tied by my past life. Although technically I'm a hundred and twelve so I'm old enough to be his grandpappy."

I smiled slightly. This was what I had been hoping for. The tension had broken and they were having a casual conversation. I let out a breath of relief. The hardest part was over. Aang was accepting Zuko and I could see the others were hating him less and less.

"On another note," Sokka said. "What exactly are we sharing with him? Can we really trust him with the information we've learned?"

Katara argued. "I don't think we should trust him so quickly. He could just be trying to get information out of us for the Fire Nation."

"He's not," I defended. "He does want to help, Katara."

Zuko added, "I'll help you all in any way I can. I know you're looking for your flying bison. I'll search with you. My Uncle is already asking his connections if they have heard anything."

Toph shrugged. "We could honestly use the help. Some of us need to distract the Joo Dee lady tomorrow so we can get some actual information. Her tailing us earlier today wasn't giving us any results. Everyone seemed scared of her."

I looked at Toph with confusion. "Joo Dee?"

Sokka explained. "She's this strange lady who is our host while we're in Ba Sing Se. I think something is seriously wrong with her in the brain. Not to mention, I don't really believe her about not getting to see the Earth King for a whole month. I really think they are keeping us away from him on purpose."

Zuko was surprised. "You're trying to speak with the Earth King?"

Aang nodded. "Yeah. We–"

"Aang!" Katara interrupted. "Don't go telling him everything!"

Aang argued. "He just wants to help, Katara… Maybe his uncle has someone who can get us in to speak with the Earth King faster."

Katara still seemed unsure. "I don't like this… what if this is his plan. Gain our trust. Get you alone, Aang…"

"And go where?" Toph asked. "I doubt he can sneak Aang out of the city." She stepped over to me and put an arm around my shoulders. "Plus, he'd never want to break Kitten's heart."

Zuko was stunned. "Kitten?"

My cheeks went a little red. "Toph likes to give nicknames."

Toph nodded. "I'll have to think of one for Prince Boy I guess, since he's part of the group now."

Katara groaned. "He's not part of the group. No one said that."

Momo suddenly ran from where he and Yuna had been interacting across the room, and he jumped onto Zuko's shoulder. Zuko jumped a bit, but relaxed when Momo rubbed his cheek against Zuko's and purred.

"I don't know… Momo likes him. I guess that means he isn't too bad," Sokka said with a shrug. "And he brought Amara and Yuna back to us in one piece."

Yuna landed on Sokka's shoulder then, and I could see she was happy to be back with the group.

Sokka pet her with a smile. "Hey girl. Good to see you too."

"Aang…" Katara spoke again. "Are you really sure about this? Teaming up with the Fire Lord's son…? Someone who has been chasing us for months…"

Aang stepped over and placed a hand on her shoulder. "I understand your concerns, Katara. But I really do have a good feeling about this. The Prince Zuko that I'm seeing right now is not the same person that came to the South Pole so long ago. He wants to help us. And we could use his help too. There's an old saying that Monk Gyatso once told me: 'The only safe and sure way to destroy your enemy is to make him your friend.' This is the start towards uniting the world again. The only way we're going to win this war is by me learning all four elements. I have air and water down. I'm learning earth. Firebending is the final challenge. Zuko taught Amara, so I know he can teach me."

Katara let out a heavy breath. "Fine… I'll go with whatever you feel is right…"

He smiled with gratitude. Then he turned and stepped over to Zuko. Momo left Zuko's shoulder and moved over to Aang's. Aang gripped his staff tighter, and his face went serious as he spoke again. "Prince Zuko… it took a lot of courage to come here today. I can tell you are sincere about wanting to help us end this war. I accept your apology, and your offer to assist us. Help me find Appa… Be my firebending teacher… help us save this world… Then I'll know that I made the right decision in trusting you."

Zuko put his hand on his fist and bowed to Aang to show respect. "Thank you, Avatar Aang. I won't let you down. I promise, from this day forward I will do everything in my power to help you and your friends stop my father and this war. The violence and suffering needs to end."

Aang nodded. "One more thing… you can just call me Aang. The Avatar isn't necessary."

Zuko stood straight again and gave a small smile. "And you can just call me Zuko…"

Aang held his hand out. "Deal!"

Zuko took it and they shook on it. Then when Aang pulled away, he turned towards me. "I'm so glad you're back, Amara. We were all so worried about you."

I gave a sad smile. "It's good to see you, Aang. I thought about you all every day. When I heard about Appa, I was so heartbroken. I hope we find him soon."

Aang stepped over to me and placed a comforting hand on my forearm. "We will… I just know we'll get him back soon." He glanced over at Zuko who was standing where he'd left him, and then back at me. He whispered so only I would hear. "You know… I think you were the key to all of this, Amara."

His words puzzled me. "What do you mean?"

"I don't think you being saved by Zuko and his Uncle at the beginning of this was a coincidence. I think you and Zuko were meant to meet so this moment would happen. You brought me a firebending teacher and a new ally. Thanks, Amara."

I blushed. "I just told Zuko he was being an idiot and he finally listened to me."

Aang laughed. "It's good to have you and Yuna back."

Once the tension was finally gone, I asked them what exactly was trying to break into the city that delayed their arrival. Aang explained that there was a giant drill, and the person behind it was Azula. Zuko and I were horrified by this news. Aang quickly reassured us that the drill was stopped and Azula and her friends fled.

"I can't believe she's so close," Zuko muttered. "I feel like she's always one step behind me."

Sokka shrugged. "Well, good thing is she can't get in the city so we're at least safe from her for now."

Once they finished their tale, Aang wanted everyone to go around the room and officially introduce themselves to Zuko. My cousins weren't thrilled about it. Toph however was quick to step forward and punch Zuko in the arm, giving her name and welcoming him to the group. He rubbed his arm but smiled at her acceptance.

"Nice to meet you finally, Toph." Zuko looked around at the group. "You don't have to introduce yourselves though… Amara's told me all about you. And… we've had our share of run-ins." He looked at Katara. "Katara… I'm sorry for what I did to you at the North Pole… I was a fool and shouldn't have hurt you."

Katara stared at the stone floor tile beneath her, not sure what to say.

Zuko looked over at Sokka next. "And I'm sorry for what happened at the South Pole, Sokka… but your determination was pretty inspiring that day. And your boomerang gave me a pretty good bump."

Sokka tapped his chin. "I was pretty good that day, wasn't I?"

Zuko continued. "I also owe you all thanks for taking care of Amara for me. I hated having to leave her at the North Pole that day, but I knew she was in good hands."

Sokka stepped over to me and put an arm around my shoulders. Yuna had flown off of his shoulder at this point and was sitting beside Momo on the floor. Sokka took in a heavy breath and said, "Well… honestly… I guess we owe you thanks, Zuko. If it wasn't for you and your uncle, we would've never met our cousin."

Katara sighed. "Yeah… as much as I want to freeze you to a wall right now, everything you've done for Amara makes me hate you just a little less."

I was relieved to hear my cousins slowly start to accept Zuko.

Zuko smiled over at me. "If it wasn't for Amara, I would've never opened my eyes to the truth. She helped me learn to love again. She's taught me so much."

I blushed. "You've taught me a lot too…"

Sokka dropped his arm from my shoulders and stepped over to Zuko. "Just remember one thing, bud. I know you and Amara are close. As Amara's cousin, I'll be keeping my eye on you. You hurt her, and I'll be the one to make you pay." He pointed his index and middle fingers at his eyes and then over to Zuko's face.

Zuko's cheeks went red. He defended himself though. "I'd never hurt her. I swear."

Toph smirked. "He's telling the truth."

Sokka backed away, although his eyes were still narrowed at Zuko. "He better be."

I covered my face in embarrassment. "Sokka… please…"

Sokka defended himself. "Hey. Just saying."

Aang changed the subject. "So… tomorrow. We start our search for Appa. We'll begin at dawn."

Zuko nodded. "I'll be here in the morning then. I'll ask my uncle if he's heard anything and report to you what I find."

Sokka asked, "Where are you staying?"

"We have a place at The Jasmine Dragon. My Uncle owns the tea shop now. It's about a mile from here."

"Ooh! Tea sounds great!" Aang exclaimed. "Let's just meet you there then! We can have breakfast and strategize!"

Katara sighed. "This has turned into such a weird day." She glanced over at me. "But at least something good came out of it."

I nodded. "Yeah… it's definitely a good day."

"Well… I guess I'll walk you back," Sokka said. "That way we can get Amara's stuff."

I was surprised. "My stuff?"

Sokka crossed his arms. "Just because we're accepting Zuko doesn't mean we're letting you stay with him and his Uncle still. Leaving you with them was hard enough. Now that you're back, I want you where I can see you."

I went to argue, but Zuko spoke and cut me off. "I understand your concerns Sokka… but you do need to understand that my Uncle and I care about Amara greatly. We'd never do anything to her. She's as important to us as she is to you."

Sokka shrugged. "That may be so… but allowing her to stay with two men she isn't related to is something I can't do."

Toph chuckled. "I see we have an overprotective Sokka here."

Sokka defended himself. "Amara needs to be with her family. I don't like the idea of her sleeping—"

Zuko quickly spoke up. "You're right, Sokka."

I was stunned. "He is?"

Sokka was surprised too. "I am?"

Zuko nodded. He walked over to me and cupped my cheek. "It's best if you're with your family at night. We don't want them to worry. I also need to get on their good side right now. But I'll see you every day. I promise."

I let out a heavy breath. "Okay… but I'm walking back with you tonight to get my stuff. I want to make sure you get back okay. And say goodnight to Iroh."

Zuko smiled. "Deal."

A few moments later, Zuko and Sokka walked with me back the way we had come towards the tea shop. Yuna stayed with the others, happy to be with Momo again. As we headed back, I felt an awkward air between Zuko and Sokka.

However, Sokka finally broke the silence. "So… you really are related to Avatar Roku?"

Zuko answered softly. "Yeah. Definitely was a surprise."

Sokka nodded. "It does explain what happened that day at Roku's temple. When his spirit took over Aang, he freed you from your chains like us. He clearly cared about you."

Zuko was stunned. Then he smiled. "Yeah… I guess so."

"That was actually the first day I met Amara's terrible brother… thanks for saving her from that monster."

I flinched at the mention of Zhao.

Zuko responded with a frown. "I'm glad that he met his end."

Sokka nodded. "That's something we can agree on."

I crossed my arms as a shiver raced down my spine. That time felt like so long ago now.

Eventually we got to the tea shop. Iroh came out of the place we'd been residing in and greeted Sokka. As they greeted one another, Sokka sent me inside to get my things. I did as he asked, knowing I needed to listen to him to keep Zuko on his good side. Grabbing my bag from the corner of the room, I made my way back outside. Just as I got to the door, I heard Sokka conversing.

I stopped and listened so they wouldn't see me, curious to what they were saying.

Sokka was talking. "I get the relationship she has with you two, but we're her family. We know what's best for her."

Zuko spoke. "I understand Sokka. I want her to be with you all. I don't want to keep her from her family. But you know you can't control her… if you don't give her a say she's going to feel trapped again. She's still really fragile when it comes to people forcing her to do things she doesn't want to do."

"I'm not forcing her to do anything. I'm protecting her. That's my job," Sokka defended. "One of the reasons Katara and I are even considering letting you join us is so we don't hurt her. But it's going to be a while before we fully trust you."

"I know," Zuko said. "But you can trust me when I say that I love Amara, and I will protect her too. I want to make this world better for her. A place where she can feel safe. That will only happen by defeating my father and stopping this war."

I felt my heart flutter from his concern for me. I finally stepped outside and the conversation stopped. Sokka gestured for me to follow him. I nodded, but first walked over to Iroh and gave him a hug. "Thanks, Iroh. I wouldn't have found them again without your help."

Iroh hugged me back. "Get a good night's rest, Amara. I will see you tomorrow. I hear I'll be having some guests to serve bright and early in the morning."

I smiled. "Yeah. Aang's excited for your tea."

Iroh chuckled. "As he should be."

I then turned and walked over to Zuko. I hugged him and he hugged me back. "You did amazing tonight," I whispered. "Your mom and Roku would be so proud. I know I am."

He hugged me closer, whispering in my ear, "I couldn't have done it without you. Thanks, Amara… I'll see you tomorrow."

I nodded against him. "I love you… so much."

He pulled away and placed his hand on my cheek again. "I love you too. Get some sleep."

He moved down and kissed me then. I kissed him back, enjoying the moment.

A throat cleared, and we broke apart. I glanced over to see Sokka waiting at the top of the steps. I pulled away from Zuko, blushing a little from becoming distracted. "I better go… good night, Zuko."

He brushed his thumb on my cheek again. "Rest well, Amara. I'll see you at dawn."

I left them then, heading back over to Sokka. Sokka took my hand and started to lead me away. After a few minutes of walking back to where they were staying, I squeezed Sokka's hand. "He really has changed… I know it's hard to see, but he wants to stop this war as much as the rest of us."

Sokka sighed. "It's hard for me to admit it, Amara… but I do see the change in him. I still have my doubts, but I can see he really does love you. That fact is enough for me to give him a chance. Just don't expect complete trust overnight. Especially from Katara."

I nodded. "I won't… but thank you… for giving him a chance. It does mean a lot to me."

Sokka stopped walking. He turned and met my gaze in the moonlight. "I want you to know… I worried about you every minute we were apart. I feared you would be captured or hurt. Seeing you though… just the way we left you… that makes me trust Zuko and his Uncle just a little more. They did take care of you when we weren't there. I owe them for that."

"I really did miss you though," I promised. "When I heard about Appa, I was sick with worry."

He placed a brotherly hand on my shoulder. "We'll find him. Together."

I smiled. "Yeah. Together."

Sokka started walking again, pulling me along. "But you and Zuko will be watched like a hawk. I'm on cousin duty from this day forward."

I felt my cheeks burn. "We just kiss."

Sokka muttered under his breath, "That better be all you do." Then he quickly changed the subject. "At least now Katara can stop pacing in the middle of the night and fretting over you. I wasn't getting any sleep!"

I grimaced. "Sorry for worrying you."

He let go of my hand, but only so he could put an arm around me. "We're your cousins. We'll always worry about you, Amara. That's what family does."

His comment warmed my heart.

As we continued on through the night, I felt so much relief. I was reunited with Aang, Toph, and my cousins. Zuko wasn't killed by my family today. He was being given a chance. Aang wanted him to be his firebending teacher, and help him stop the Fire Lord. I wasn't sure what would come in the following days, but I was holding on to hope that everything would work out in the end.