This is a long chapter… I really needed this after the week I've had though. An SUV ran into me Tuesday damaging my back passenger door and me… so I've been dealing with pain and insurance… I'm exhausted with real life, so getting into my writing was a relief. Which is why this chapter is called "Relief."- Enjoy.

Chapter 49: Relief

Standing on the shoreline, I let my feet get covered by the cool water as it washed up the sand from the broken waves. We were anchored off the coast of the Earth Kingdom just a few miles from the Serpent's Pass. Some of us had decided to go on shore to walk on land for a little bit. It had been almost two weeks since we'd left Ba Sing Se, and Aang still had not woken up. Thankfully, Katara had been right: He appeared to be in a frozen state so he was doing okay physically. We just wished he would wake up. He was still far from us.

The last two weeks had definitely been eventful. The Fire Nation had come to Chameleon Bay four days after we had gotten there. Azula was eager to apprehend us and had found our location quickly, sending a fleet to attack us in the night. We had been prepared though, and managed to take over a Fire Nation vessel while some of the other warriors distracted the remaining fleet. Once we knocked all the soldiers off the ship we'd boarded, we left the bay. The other warriors who had been distracting the rest of the fleet managed to escape, and found us two hours later at the meet-up point a few miles from Chameleon Bay. Aang had already been brought to the meet-up point a day before, being protected by Katara and some other warriors until we arrived.

After the fighting and adrenaline wore off, we all felt our spirits lighten as we realized that our plan had worked perfectly. We had a Fire Nation vessel that would help us travel in disguise once we reached Fire Nation waters. We had also managed to carry Aang onto the ship and find him a comfortable room to rest and heal in. One thing I did notice as they carried Aang onto the ship was that he had brown hair starting to grow on his head over his tattoo. I was certain when he woke up he would not be thrilled.

After we were safe and had Aang settled, we learned that some of the warriors had decided to take the Water Tribe vessels and head to the South Pole to check on the tribe. Katara mentioned to me that I could go with them, and I quickly shook my head to let her know I was staying with my cousins. As much as I wanted to meet my grandma, I wanted to help end the war and make the world safe… Plus… I didn't want to leave Zuko…

Zuko quickly taught Hakoda and the other men how to steer the vessel in the hours after we had gotten the ship, and they were able to practice while we headed towards the Serpent's Pass. As we neared the mass of jagged land stretched in our path, Hakoda and his men had gotten the hang of steering and we thankfully did not crash. The ship traveled through the Serpent's Pass with ease. There was a spot where the pass was covered by water deep enough for us to go over. Katara and Sokka were able to guide us to the location because they had been there before. Thankfully, we had not run into a sea serpent during our journey, and I was relieved. From what my family had told me, the sea serpent was not a friend.

Just a few hours ago, we ended up stopping off shore so that some of the warriors could go find supplies. While we walked on shore, we met an eight year old boy named The Duke and a giant muscular guy named Pipsqueak. Jet, Longshot, and Smellerbee were thrilled when the two kids suddenly wandered by where we were hanging out on shore, and they all hugged one another in excitement. Katara and Sokka quickly explained to Toph, Zuko, and I that the two kids were Freedom Fighters they had met in the past. I looked at Pipsqueak with confusion. His muscles and height totally did not make him look like a kid. Jet explained to me when he saw my confusion that Pipsqueak was actually eighteen and the oldest of the Freedom Fighters.

As the group started to chat with the two Freedom Fighters where they sat in the sand, I mentioned to Zuko who was sitting beside me that I was going to put my feet in the water. He looked at me with concern and I only gave him a smile to let him know I was okay. Then I left the circle and headed to the water.

Standing on the sand barefoot, and feeling the water rush over my feet, I shut my eyes to listen to the waves and calm my pounding heart.

To be honest, I was super nervous about the days to come. I had asked Sokka how much longer it would be until we reached Fire Nation waters and he informed me it would probably be another week or so. We had to take another path southwest in order to get to the west coast of the Earth Kingdom. Then it would be the open sea from there until we reached Fire Nation land.

The Fire Nation… It was strange to think that such a place I barely knew was where I had been born. I didn't really know anything about the Fire Nation other than the temperature, some vegetation, and a few bugs and animals. Everything I had seen was within the walls of Admiral Gru's estate, or when I was shoved onto Zhao's ship to go to the Earth Kingdom. Those memories felt so far away after all I had been through, so it was strange to think only a few months had passed since I was freed.

My body shivered as a breeze hit me. The water lapped over my feet again.

Over the last few days, I thought about what would happen if I ever ended up back at the place where all my pain had begun. I knew the place where I was from was on Shuhon Island, and I was aware my father's estate was outside the town somewhere near the coast. If I were to ever go back to that awful place, what would I do?

Of course, I knew what I wanted to do… I wanted to burn it… Burn it to the ground…

But I also had another desire… I wanted to know where they had buried my mother… I wanted to confront Uncle Xi and get that answer… I had to know… And I finally felt brave enough to ask…

"Amara…" Zuko spoke suddenly. I jumped a bit, being brought out of my thoughts. "You okay?"

I heard him step over and stand to the point where his shoes didn't hit the water. I glanced back at him and saw his concern. I gave a small smile. "Yeah… I was just getting lost in my thoughts."

I stepped away from the water and headed back to my shoes. Zuko watched me pass, and he was not convinced. He grabbed my arm gently to stop me. I flinched, knowing he was seeing right through me. "I know that look… something is bothering you. You know you can talk to me."

His perception forced me to let out a heavy breath. I turned to meet his gaze and then stared back down at the sand. "I was just… thinking about the Fire Nation… about the place where I was born… the estate… If I was to cross paths with it again, I was just thinking about what I would do."

Zuko was surprised. Then he shook his head. He took my hands in his own. "You won't ever go back to that horrible place. You know that."

I pulled from his hands, and crossed my arms. I glanced back at my family, Toph, and the Freedom Fighters. Momo and Yuna were chasing each other in the sand. The group felt empty without Aang…

I finally spoke again. "I… I want to though…"

He was silent for a moment after my confession. I moved away from him and walked back to the water. I sat down in the sand. He moved to my side and sat with me. He was puzzled by my reveal. "Amara… What do you mean by that?"

I shut my eyes listening to the waves. My heart pounded as I pictured the estate. I pictured my uncle. I pictured my mom. I opened my eyes again and stared at the water before me. "I want to destroy the last thing that is standing in my way of fully being free… that's what I mean."

He let my words sink in. He then let out a heavy breath. "Revenge… I get it, Amara… You want your uncle to suffer. And he will… but when I become Fire Lord. I understand you want to be the one to make him pay, but I can't let you do that. I won't let him hurt you again. I won't let you go near him."

I was stunned. I looked over at him with bewilderment. "You won't let me? It's my choice."

He frowned over at me. "I'm not trying to take away your free will… I'm trying to protect you. If you go to your father's estate, you could get hurt… or worse… I just… I don't want you to suffer anymore by the hand of those monsters." He took my hand in his and gave it a squeeze. His other hand cupped my cheek so I was forced to meet his pleading gaze. "Please, Amara… Promise me you'll let me handle it. I swear once this war is over your uncle is going to pay for his crimes. I promise he will regret ever hurting you and your mother. Just let me deal with the matter. Can you do that for me?"

I shut my eyes feeling my blood pound in my ears. I gave him a nod. He sighed in relief.

It was the first lie I'd ever told to Zuko. My promise… It was a lie… Because… If we did end up on Shuhon Island one day, I would not stand by. I would take my revenge. Uncle Xi would pay for everything…

Another three days passed. They were pretty uneventful. Just more traveling by water, or walking on land.

We were finally almost to the western coast of the Earth Kingdom. I was standing on deck, practicing some firebending moves that Zuko had taught me a few moments before. He wanted to distract me from my thoughts, knowing I was still thinking about my birth home, so he eagerly asked to resume my training the day before. He also felt bad that he wasn't really teaching anyone like he originally was supposed to when he joined the group.

Zuko stood a few feet away, watching my form as I kicked another blast of fire with my foot. Yuna watched from where she was perched on a crate. Even Hakoda and Bato were watching me with curiosity from where they stood on deck. They had never seen firebending training before.

Zuko spoke as I caught myself after my kick. The flames dissipated in the air as he said, "Good form. But remember that firebending comes from the breath. If you don't breath during the attack your force won't be as strong."

I nodded and went to try again. However, before I went to kick, the door to the lower part of the ship was thrown open. A familiar kid suddenly came out from below, and then tripped, landing on his stomach. A wooden staff went flying from his hand and landed on the deck a few feet away.

My eyes widened. "Aang!"

I forgot about my training and rushed over to him. I quickly knelt beside him, looking him over with concern. Momo had run over as well upon hearing my call. Appa, who was on deck, let out a groan of delight when he saw his friend was finally awake.

Aang got on his knees, blinked a few times when he saw Momo, and then looked over at me. "Amara?"

I smiled with relief. I threw my arms around him to hug him. Tears burned my eyes. "Aang… You're awake… thank goodness. We missed you."

He hugged me slowly back, still confused. When he pulled away, he looked back at Momo. "Momo…?" Momo extended his body up just enough to lick him on the cheek in greeting, and then got back on all fours.

Aang then looked at Zuko who had just joined us. "Zuko?"

Zuko knelt beside me and placed a hand on Aang's shoulder. "Hey Aang… Take it slow. You just woke up."

"Woke… up? What… happened?"

Before we could answer, Toph shouted, "Twinkletoes! That's got to be you!"

We looked over to see Toph and Katara running towards us with delight. Katara exclaimed, "Aang! You're awake!"

Aang managed to get to his feet, and then rubbed his eyes. "Are you sure? I feel like I'm dreaming?"

Zuko and I were on our feet again. Yuna landed on my shoulder and gave a 'mew-hoo!' glad that Aang was awake again.

Katara moved forward and hugged Aang, tears falling down her cheeks. I saw the Freedom Fighters had come over as well, with the Duke and Pipsqueak coming up on deck and joining them. The Duke and Pipsqueak sounded a bit out of breath, so I assumed they had been chasing Aang.

Katara answered Aang as she hugged him close with great relief, "You're not dreaming. You're finally awake."

Sokka came over then dressed in Fire Nation armor from the waist up. His helmet visor was on, which I didn't understand. We weren't hiding from anyone at the moment, so he didn't need to cover his face. He stepped over and hugged Aang as he said, "Aang, good to see you back with the living, buddy!"

When he pulled away, Aang stared at the helmet that Sokka wore with complete confusion. "Sokka…?" He started to breathe heavily then, and his eyes rolled back.

"Uh-oh," Toph shouted. "Somebody catch him, he's going to–"

Aang collapsed before she could finish. Zuko rushed forward just in time to catch Aang from falling back. He managed to lower Aang to the steel deck, and then looked over at Sokka. "Let's get him out of the sunlight. He'll hopefully come to in a moment."

Sokka took his helmet off, and then quickly moved to help Zuko carry Aang a little ways from the middle of the deck over to some crates for shade. We followed them with concern. Once they settled Aang down, Katara knelt beside him and pulled him up to rest in her arms so he was leaning against her. She let out a heavy breath in relief. "Thank goodness he finally woke up."

Toph pursed her lips. "We're calling this awake?"

Jet commented from where he stood with his group, "Well… It's definitely an improvement."

"I'm going to go get him a robe," I spoke. "It's still a little chilly out."

Katara smiled at me. "Thanks, Amara."

I left and went down below deck. As I made my way to the room he had been staying in, I let out my own breath of relief. It had been more than two weeks since Aang was struck by Azula. After two weeks, he was finally awake.

After I grabbed a red robe from the chest in the room he was staying in, I made my way back up on deck. I was relieved to see Aang was conscious again and sitting up. Momo and Yuna were sitting beside him, and he was looking around in confusion still. The Freedom Fighters had walked off at this point to give us space, so it was just Sokka, Zuko, Toph, and Katara with him.

I walked over and draped the robe around Aang, then sat on my knees beside him. I asked with worry, "Better?"

He gave me a small smile and nodded. "Yeah… Thanks, Amara." He then asked, "Are you doing okay? I heard about Iroh…"

His question made me frown. I only gave a small nod. "I'm okay… Just worried about him."

Zuko placed a hand on my back to reassure me.

Sokka sighed. "Well. Since you're okay now, I'm going to check on our course. Make sure we're moving at a good pace."

Toph nodded. "I'll come too. Looks like I'm not doing much good here." She nudged Aang on the arm with her fist. "Glad you're back, Twinkletoes." The two of them got up and headed away.

Aang asked once they were gone, "Why are we on a Fire Nation ship? Why is everyone dressed this way?" That question was more so pointed towards Sokka who was still in his armor as he walked off. "And why am I the only one who's completely out of it?"

Katara placed a hand on his shoulder. "You need to take it easy, okay? You got hurt pretty bad." She smiled, adding, "I like your hair."

He was horrified. "I have hair?!" He felt the top of his head in shock. "How long was I out?!"

"A few weeks," Katara answered.

Zuko spoke with reassurance. "You haven't missed anything though. So don't worry too much. You needed to rest."

Aang looked at Zuko, still puzzled. "The last thing I remember is going into the Avatar state… What happened to Ba Sing Se? To the Earth King?"

I tried to calm him down. "We'll tell you everything once you've had some food. You haven't eaten in a long time."

Katara agreed. "Amara's right. You'll get all the answers you need."

Hakoda suddenly spoke to us as he approached. "Everything okay?"

I was surprised when I saw Katara's demeanor completely change. She looked irritated. "We're fine, Dad."

Hakoda spoke to Aang then. "I'm Hakoda, Katara and Sokka's father. And Amara's uncle." He extended his hand to Aang, and Aang went to shake it.

Katara placed her hand on Aang's shoulder, stopping him. "He knows who you are. I just called you 'dad,' didn't I?"

Hakoda was surprised by her frustrated tone. His brows furrowed in confusion. "I guess you're right?"

Aang gently took Katara's hand off his shoulder, and then reached out for Hakoda's grasp again. Hakoda took his hand as Aang said, "Nice to officially meet you, Chief Hakoda."

Hakoda smiled. "It's an honor. I've heard of all you've done for my children and niece. I owe you my gratitude."

Aang went to respond, but Katara cut him off. "Great, great, so now you guys have finally met. So would you mind giving us a little privacy?"

Hakoda was stunned. He nodded though, saying, "Of course…" He looked over Zuko. "I actually was wondering if I could go over maps with you, Zuko. You mind?"

Zuko shook his head. "Not at all." He kissed me on the cheek, saying, "I'll see you later." He then stood, and said, "Great to have you back, Aang."

Once he and Hakoda left, it was just Katara, Aang, myself, Yuna, and Momo. There was an awkward air at first, especially from the way Katara had reacted to her dad.

Aang finally asked, "Are you mad at your dad or something?"

Katara seemed surprised by his question. "What, not at all. Why would you say that?"

Aang went to shrug, but he gasped as he felt immediate pain. I quickly grew concerned, and then said to Katara, "You may want to give him a healing session. All this movement hasn't been good for his injury."

Katara nodded. "Right." She stood and helped Aang up. "We'll go downstairs and give you a healing session. Amara, can you go grab some water and bring it to Aang's room?"

I nodded to let her know I would. Katara grabbed Aang's staff and the two headed down below. As they left, Momo and Yuna flew over to Appa to hang out with him. I made my way to the barrel where we kept fresh water and scooped some into the bowl sitting beside it. As I went to turn to head to the room, I stopped and stared at the water in the bowl with a small frown. My heart ached a little. I hated seeing Aang in pain.

"Amara?" I looked up and saw Bato coming towards me in his Fire Nation armor. He probably saw the sadness on my face, because he looked concerned. He stopped in front of me. "Everything alright?"

"Yes…" I answered, meeting his kind blue eyes. "I'm fine. I was just getting some water so I can go help Katara with Aang."

He nodded. "I saw that the Avatar is still a bit out of it. Anything I can do?"

I gave him a small smile. "No. I think we're okay. Aang was feeling some pain, so Katara and I are going to give him a healing session."

He sighed. "Okay… Well let me know if you all need anything. I'm here to help, Amara."

I gave him a small nod. "I know."

He went to walk away, but he stopped. He turned back to me with a smile. "I enjoyed watching you train today by the way. You are really amazing. Your mom would be so proud if she were here. She would love to know her daughter is one powerful dualbender."

I felt my cheeks go a little red from his compliment. "Thanks, Bato. I'll see you later. We'll be back up on deck when we're done helping Aang."

He nodded. "Sounds good." Then he added with a firm tone, "But I mean it, Amara. If you need anything then please let me know."

"I will," I promised.

He smiled again. "Good. Go on then. Your cousin is probably waiting."

Nodding, I headed away from him. However, my heart warmed from his kindness. Ever since I met Bato, he had been so kind and protective of me. I knew why of course… He had cared deeply about my mother, so he felt the need to care for me as well. I can recall a conversation we had a few days before. I had been standing by the rail of the ship staring at some dog-phins in the water. He came and stood beside me.

"They're quite majestic creatures, aren't they?"

I glanced over at Bato, and gave him a nod. "Yes… They were one of the first creatures I saw after I was freed from Zhao."

Bato let out a heavy breath, and then hung his head. "Yes… your half-brother… i heard you suffered so much by his hand. Katara told me about the scars on your back. I can't imagine the pain you endured… the hopelessness you felt…"

I watched the dog-phins again, my back tingling at the memory. "There were moments I felt that way. Hopeless… But not all the time… honestly, I had more days with hope than days without…" I leaned with my arms on the railing as I continued. "After my mother was killed, I endured every kick, burn, and hit with one thing on my mind… I knew I couldn't let myself give in to the pain… I couldn't give up… because my Water Tribe family was out there. And I had made a promise to my mom that I would find them. I held on to that hope… I hoped that one day I would be free and find people who would love me… love me despite being of two nations. Zhao constantly called me a freak and told me my Water Tribe family wouldn't want me. That they wouldn't love me because of my Fire Nation characteristics. I hoped he was wrong."

Bato grabbed the rail and gripped it tight, shutting his eyes as I spoke. I could see my words were causing him pain. He went to speak, but I continued, cutting him off. I knew he was going to apologize, and I didn't want him to. That was all he and Hakoda had been doing since I met them. They had nothing to apologize for. My mom being captured was not their fault. It was no one's fault but Admiral Gru's.

"Thinking about the past now… it feels like distant memories… I was freed from my cage. Given shelter, kindness, and care. Wanted… and I learned how to love again. Something I had forgotten after my mom died. I learned how to smile, and laugh. How to be more than just a prisoner."

I shut my eyes as they burned.

"Zuko… Iroh… they taught me how to be free. How to live. And if it wasn't for them, I would've never found Sokka and Katara. My cousins… my Water Tribe family…" I smiled. "When I finally met them and journeyed with them, I felt like I was with my mom again. Katara's love and Sokka's overprotectiveness… they reminded me of her."

I blinked as tears fell.

"For sixteen years all I knew was darkness… but then one day, this crazy tea loving man came to Zhao's harbor and took me under his wing. His nephew and crew cared for me and watched over me. Then I found my Water Tribe family too. A family… I had finally found the very thing that had given me hope. Someone I could love and who would love me. Iroh… Zuko… Katara… Sokka… even Aang, and Toph. They are my family. Tu Lan… he's my family too… and now there's Hakoda and you… I have such a big family now. And that makes the pain of the past feel nothing more than a bad dream. All those days of hoping were truly worth it in the end."

Bato let out a deep breath. "You are such a strong young woman, Amara… I don't know anyone who could've done what you were able to do." He turned towards me and grabbed both of my hands. He made me turn so I could meet his gaze. "I want you to know… from the moment I saw you Amara, I wanted nothing more than to love you as if you were my own daughter. Whatever you need… please, don't hesitate to ask. I'm here for you."

His kindness was heartwarming. I smiled. "Thank you, Bato… If mom were here, she'd love hearing you say that." I hugged him, and he hugged me back. His warm embrace was comforting. Images of Tu Lan and Iroh flashed through my mind. They were all fatherly figures to me. I truly was lucky to be loved by so many.

Stopping at the stairs that went down below, I watched as Bato headed up the stairs to the helm. I smiled and shut my eyes for a moment. The breeze hit me as I thought, Mom… I see why you fell for him. He's a good man…

When I finally got down to the room, I saw Aang's shirt was off and Katara was on the bed behind him. I brought the bowl over and set it down on the table beside the bed. As Katara prepared to heal him, Aang spoke to me.

"So Amara… how do you feel now that you've finally gotten to meet more of your Water Tribe family… I heard they accepted you immediately?"

I gave a small smile. "It feels like a dream, honestly. To be surrounded by so many of mom's people… I can't believe it's really true. But… It really makes me overcome with joy to be accepted by them all. I mean… some of the men took a little bit to look past my Fire Nation features, but they eventually came around once they got to know me."

Aang nodded. "What's not to like about you, Amara? You're amazing."

I blushed at his compliment. "Thanks, Aang."

Katara started to heal him then, and I moved over so I could watch. I wanted to learn more about healing, because I only knew a little bit about it. As her water started to glow, and she moved around his damaged flesh, she said, "Tell me where the pain feels most intense."

Aang winced as she moved the water through his flesh, and he managed to choke out in pain, "A little higher…" She moved the water up, and he gasped and grunted. "Wow… you're definitely in the right area there." I saw beads of sweat on his forehead as Katara tried to mend the area. I grabbed a rag on the table, dipped it in the remaining water, and pressed it to his forehead. That seemed to help for a moment, and Aang sighed.

Katara spoke. "I can feel a lot of energy twisted up around there." She began to pull the water out of the damage. "Let me just see if I can-"

Aang suddenly jerked his body in pain and screamed. Katara gasped, pulling the water away and putting it back in the bowl. I caught Aang as he almost fell over from the pain. He breathed heavily for a moment, his eyes shut tight. Then he finally looked at me, and then back at Katara. He got out of the bed and put his hand on his head with disbelief. "I went down! I didn't just get hurt, did I? It was worse than that. I was gone!" He looked at Katara again. His shock seemed to fade as he spoke with an emotion I could only decipher as admiration. "But you brought me back."

Katara blushed and shrugged. "I just used the spirit water from the North Pole. I don't know what I did exactly."

Aang shook his head. "You saved me."

Katara got off the bed and stepped over to him. She placed a hand on his cheek. "You need rest."

Aang shook his head. "No… I'm okay. I want answers. I want to know what's going on."

Katara sighed. She looked over at me with worry, and I gave her a small smile. "He deserves to know."

I knew what she was concerned about. She didn't know how Aang would react when he learned the world believed him to be dead.

Aang looked at me with confusion. "Know what?"

Katara responded. "We'll discuss that in a little bit. You must be hungry. Amara… why don't you help Aang back upstairs while I grab him some food."

I nodded. "Okay." I extended my hand towards Aang. He seemed eager to know what was going on, but he finally let out a heavy breath and took my hand. He used his staff as a crutch on one side, while he used my shoulders as a crutch on his other.

As we made our way from the cabins of the ship to the stairs leading on deck, I said to him, "I really missed you, Aang. The group wasn't the same without you."

He gave a small smile. "Thanks, Amara… It's good to be back. Sorry it took so long."

A few moments later, we were seated in a large circle near some crates to talk with Aang. Zuko, Toph, Sokka, Hakoda, Bato, Katara, and I were all staring at Aang trying to gauge his emotions. The Freedom Fighters were stuffing their faces with noodles since it was lunch time. Yuna was chewing on a fish she had caught. Momo was taking a nap on Appa's head a little ways away.

"So…" Aang began with impatience. "Why are we on this ship? What's going on?"

"After what happened at Ba Sing Se, we had to get you to safety," Sokka explained from where he sat on a crate. I sat beside Zuko, fiddling with my necklace as I watched Aang's reaction. Sokka continued. "We flew back to Chameleon Bay where we found my father and the other Water Tribe men. The Earth King decided he wanted to travel the world in disguise, so he set off alone… Well, not completely alone…" Sokka added, remembering King Kuei's bear, Basco. "Soon, the bay was overrun by Fire Nation ships. With Zuko's help, we made a plan to capture a single ship and we made it our disguise. He taught us how to steer the vessel. Since then we've been traveling west. We crossed through the Serpent's Pass a few days ago. We've seen a few Fire Nation ships, but none have bothered us."

Aang looked at all of us with confusion still. I could see he was trying to piece together the last few weeks in his head. He finally asked, "So what now?"

Hakoda answered. "We've been working on a modified version of the invasion plan."

Katara muttered, "It's Sokka's invasion plan."

I looked at her with confusion again. I could not understand why she was being so rude to her dad.

Hakoda looked at her with confusion as well, but responded, "Yes, Sokka's plan." He looked back at Aang. "We won't be able to mount a massive invasion without the Earth King's armies, but the solar eclipse will still leave the Fire Nation vulnerable."

Sokka nodded. "So we're planning a smaller invasion. Just a ragtag team of our friends and allies from around the Earth Kingdom. We already ran into Pipsqueak and The Duke."

The two Freedom Fighters looked up upon hearing their names from where they sat by Jet, Longshot, and Smellerbee. Pipsqueak waved over to Aang, saying, "Good to see you again, Aang!"

Aang nodded and waved back.

Jet spoke. "About time you woke up, Aang. Fighting war just isn't the same without the Avatar."

Aang gave a small smile towards Jet. "Thanks for offering to help."

Jet shrugged and smirked. "More than happy to knock around some Fire Nation. Haven't done it in a while. It's what I'm good at though."

I went to take a bite of my noodles. Jet's cockiness irritated me though, so I said, "Not good enough to knock this Fire Nation girl around though. I believe I'm the one that threw you a few weeks ago." I ate my noodles with satisfaction as I saw Jet grimace from the memory of my attack on him back in Ba Sing Se.

Toph laughed. "Good one, Kitten."

Zuko smirked, while Sokka coughed to hide his laugh. Even Longshot gave a small smile at the memory. He covered it quickly with his own noodles so Jet didn't see the amusement.

Jet responded, "Technically, you don't count. You're two nations."

"Technically, she's Fire Nation," Zuko said with a shrug. "She counts."

"And Water Tribe! So she doesn't count!" Jet argued.

Toph smirked. "Keep telling yourself that, tree boy. If it makes you feel better. We all know Kitten won though."

Jet huffed and went back to eating his noodles.

Sokka tried to call us back to order. He spoke to Aang again to continue the explanation. "Anyway… we're still working on gathering more allies. We've sent messages out, and some of our warriors who were headed to the South Pole are passing word as well. And the best part is, the eclipse isn't even our biggest advantage!" He leaned forward and whispered to Aang, "We have a secret…" Then he pointed down at him. "You!"

Aang was puzzled. "Me?"

I sighed. It was the moment of truth.

"Yep, the whole world thinks you're dead! Isn't that great?" Sokka stood up and raised his hands with victory. "You're our secret weapon!"

Aang didn't agree. He jumped up in terror and started to pace. We all watched him as his panic rose. "Great! No! This is not great!" He walked away from us over to the ship rail. Sokka and Katara quickly followed. Zuko, Toph, and I got up as well. The rest of the group continued to sit and listen from where they ate their food. We approached Aang who was clutching his head in terror.

Aang stopped at the rail, and then turned towards us. "The world thinks I'm dead? How is that good news? That's terrible!"

Sokka shook his head and stepped over to him. "No, it's great! It means the Fire Nation won't be hunting us anymore! And even better, they won't be expecting you on the Day of Black Sun!"

Aang shook his head. "No, no, no, no, no. You have no idea. This is so messed up!"

I went to try and console him, but something stopped me. I saw from the corner of my eye a Fire Nation Ship. And it was heading straight towards us.

"Um… We have company," I said, pointing towards the shape in the distance.

Aang turned and saw what I was seeing. His eyes narrowed. "I'll handle this. The Avatar is back!" He opened his glider and prepared to fly off, but he grunted in pain and almost collapsed. I broke the distance and caught him as he stumbled, helping to steady him.

Katara tried to talk sense to him. "Aang, wait. Remember, they don't know we're not Fire Nation."

Aang pulled away from me, and managed to close his glider. I saw he was sweating again from the pain.

Hakoda walked over with Bato following him. As they approached, Hakoda said, "Everyone stay calm. Bato and I will take care of this." They put their helmets on, while the rest of us did what we usually did. Sokka and Zuko managed to get Aang to where some crates were stacked that hid the square cutout in the floor we usually crouched in. Katara and I quickly filled up our water pouches, while Pipsqueak and The Duke threw a large tarp over Appa. Yuna and Momo hid under the tarp with Appa like they were taught to.

Katara and I rejoined the others, and we crouched where the square cut out was, listening to what was happening. The Freedom Fighters hid under the tarp with the other animals, waiting to see if they were needed. Our ship slowed a moment later, and then came to a halt. We heard a gangplank drop from the enemy ship onto our own. Then heavy boots sounded as three Fire Navy soldiers came on board. We were all dead silent, waiting to see if they would catch we weren't Fire Nation or would let us pass.

"I hate not being able to do anything," Aang muttered.

Zuko tried to reassure him. "There's nothing to do right now. Hopefully we won't have to fight."

Toph agreed. "Sparky's right. Let's hope we don't have to do anything."

The lead Fire Navy Officer who had stepped on board with his two other men asked Hakoda, "Commander, why are you off course? All Western Fleet ships are supposed to be moving toward Ba Sing Se to support the occupation!"

Hakoda came up with his lie. "Actually, we're from the Eastern Fleet. We have orders to deliver some cargo."

"Ahhh ... Eastern Fleet," the Fire Navy officer spoke with belief. "Well, nice of Admiral Chan to let us know he was sending one of his ships our way."

Bato played along. "I'm sure Admiral Chan meant no disrespect, sir."

The Fire Navy officer continued to complain. "I mean, how hard is it to write a quick note and send a hawk our way?"

Hakoda responded, "Next time, we'll send two hawks to make sure you get the message."

There was a brief pause. Then the three Fire Nation men started to leave the ship. We all let out a breath of relief as we heard them on the gangplank. However, before they were even a few steps on, Toph gasped. Her hand had been flat on the metal so she could hear them through the vibrations. She jumped out of the place we were hiding suddenly and shouted, "They know!"

"Sokka! Stay with Aang!" Katara ordered.

The rest of us climbed out of our hiding and ran out for battle. Toph had just used metalbending to shoot the gangplank off our ship, causing the Fire Navy officer and his two other soldiers to fall into the water below. As this occurred, Katara rushed to the side of the ship and created a huge wave between us to shove the enemy ship away. Our ship started to move at full speed as the warriors in the helm tried to get us away from the enemy. I saw the officer and his men who had been thrown over were climbing up a ladder to get back onboard. Once they were on their ship, the chase started.

Our ship was going as fast as it could as we tried to get away. However, I could tell we were not getting enough distance. The ship was gaining on us, and they had also started to shoot fireballs our way. Zuko and I rushed to the back of the ship, and I shot a blast of fire at one of the attacks while Zuko did the same to another. Our blasts knocked the fireballs back and they landed in the water a few feet away. More catapults went off, and another round of fireballs were shot. I brought up a wave like Katara had done before, and the fireballs hit the water before they hit us. My wave pushed us further away, but the distance still was not enough.

After another few moments of Zuko and I stopping fireballs, with Katara coming to help us as well, the ship managed to catch back up beside us.

"Load the Toph!"

I was confused. Looking back, I saw Pipsqueak drop a giant boulder in front of Toph. She used her earthbending to shoot the boulder directly at the ship. The boulder hit one of the many catapults, destroying it. The other catapults shot off more blasts, and Zuko, Katara, and I managed to use our fire and water to block them the best we could.

A line of Fire Navy soldiers arrived on deck of the enemy ship, shouting as they prepared to board our ship. The Freedom Fighters stood in preparation for a fight if the soldiers managed to come on board. Appa, Yuna, and Momo had thankfully gone on the other side of the helm to take cover from the danger.

"Amara!" Zuko shouted. "Come with me to the engine room! Let's speed the ship up!"

I nodded. However, just as I was about to follow him, the enemy ship shot a harpoon and hit our ship below the water. We all stumbled as the ship shook from the impact. Katara rushed over to the side of the ship where the harpoon had struck us. The harpoon was pulled back to the enemy ship, and I felt our ship start to sink as we took on water.

Katara thought quickly and bent a stream of ice to stop the water from continuing to rush in. She looked back at Zuko and I. "Go! I'll give us cover while you speed us up!"

Zuko and I listened to her and quickly rushed down into the lower level of the ship, past the cabins, down another set of stairs, past more rooms, and one last flight of stairs. We made it to the engine room finally, and Zuko and I got to where the coal and boiler were. As Zuko threw coal with a shovel into the boiler, I shot fire into the metal container. As my fire power created more heat to get us moving, I could feel we were speeding up.

"It's working!" I cried.

Zuko shoveled more coal, and I fired again. We kept it up for a good ten minutes, both of us starting to get exhausted as we kept the ship moving quickly through the water.

The door to the engine room flew open, and Toph spoke. "Hey! Kitten! Sparky! You can stop now! A giant sea serpent just saved our hides!"

Zuko and I stopped, both of us gasping from the heat and exhaustion. We looked at Toph with a puzzled expression. I asked, "Sea serpent?"

She nodded. "Yeah. Seems to be the same one we ran into a few weeks ago on our way to Ba Sing Se. I guess today it was our friend."

A few moments later we were back on deck. Zuko and I were exhausted, and I could see the others were as well. Aang was pouting that he was left out of the fight, while Sokka was rolling his eyes at the frustrated airbender.

As we approached, I could see from the distance that the enemy ship had a giant green serpent like creature wrapped around it. The soldiers on the ship were firing at the beast, but it appeared the serpent was winning. The ship was starting to break from being constricted by the serpent's body. I was bewildered. The sea serpent was a lot bigger than I imagined when my family had first told me about the creature.

"Wow… that's a relief," I spoke softly. "It could've attacked us instead."

Zuko nodded beside me. "Yeah… Looks like luck is on our side today."

Toph emerged from below deck a few moments after we had. She had gone deep below the ship to bend the damaged metal from the harpoon back together so we didn't sink when Katara's ice started to melt. Toph brushed her hands, saying, "Well, that was exhilarating. We're safe from sinking, but there's a pool now. I may need some waterbenders to help get the water out."

I nodded. "I'll help with that in a minute. Just let me catch my breath."

The rest of the group gathered, and I could see everyone was relieved we had gotten away. Katara looked over at Zuko and I, saying, "Great work you two. We got enough distance so we weren't the sea serpent's lunch."

Hakoda nodded. "I say that this calls for a celebration. Who wants to make a stop at the next port for dinner. There's one about an hour from here."

Sokka grinned. "OOH! ME!"

I smiled and said to Hakoda, "You knew that answer."

Hakoda laughed. "Yes. I shouldn't have been surprised."

An hour later, we had safely made it to port at a Fire Nation colony. During our time headed to the port, Katara, Toph, and I had managed to get the water out from below. Toph had made just a small enough opening in the metal to let us push the saltwater out. She closed the metal again, and I used my firebending to weld it shut. The ship was repaired.

Once we anchored and dropped the ship ramp to head on land, The Freedom Fighters, Bato, Hakoda, and a few Water Tribe warriors headed on to the town to buy some grub. The rest of us stayed behind for a moment, putting on our disguises: we all wore a cloak to hide our features if we needed to. Once we were ready, we headed downstairs to go see if Aang wanted to come. He had been moping in his room since we escaped the enemy ship earlier. When we got to his room, we saw him sulking on the bed still. I knew why he was in a mood. He had wanted to fight earlier, and we had not let him.

Toph tried to get him to cheer up, saying, "Hey, Aang! We're going into town to find some dinner. Get your butt up and stop moping around."

Aang let out a heavy sigh. "Well… I am pretty hungry. Maybe dinner's a good idea."

He got out of bed. Sokka stepped forward with a red Fire Nation bandana. "Here, tie this around your head. It will cover your arrow."

Aang scowled. "I'm not going out if I can't wear my arrow proudly!" He climbed back on the bed and lied back, crossing his arms in defiance.

"Don't be ridiculous, Aang," Zuko scolded. "This isn't the first time you've had to hide your tattoo."

Sokka nodded. "Zuko's right, Aang. Come on. Be practical."

Katara intervened. "You guys go ahead without us. We'll catch up to you."

The group filtered out upon Katara's request. I followed them feeling sorry for Aang. I knew why he was upset. The world believed him to be dead… and he had been the world's last hope… he didn't want the other nations to give up because they didn't know he was alive.

Eventually we got off the ship and headed into town. Yuna and Momo had stayed back with Appa, taking an afternoon nap. As we walked through the Fire Nation colony, I felt my heart was heavy with concern for Aang. Zuko noticed my downheartedness and squeezed my hand to reassure me. "He'll come around… He's just still processing everything. Don't worry."

I gave a small nod. "I know… I just hate seeing him so sad. I wish there was something we could do to cheer him up. It makes me upset seeing his spirit so down."

Zuko stopped walking, and I stopped with him. He moved in front of me so I was staring into his amazing golden eyes. He cupped my cheek, brushing a thumb against my skin as he said softly, "You have such a caring heart, Amara. That's why I love you." He kissed me gently on the lips, his touch soft and warm. My mind blurred a little as I kissed him back. My heart fluttered loudly. When he pulled away a moment later, he whispered, "Now… What were you upset about?"

I moved away from his hand which was still on my cheek, and gave a small smile. I poked him gently on the chest, saying, "Nice try, Zuko… it worked for a minute…" I then dropped my hand to grab his again for comfort. "But I'm still worried about him."

He gave my hand a squeeze. "It was worth a try… But I know." He frowned. "I'm still worried too. There's something about the way he's acting… I fear he might do something rash."

I let out a breath. "Me too…" I stopped talking when I saw Katara approach us with no Aang. Worried by his absence, I asked her when she got close enough, "Where is he?"

She crossed her arms in dismay. "I couldn't get him to come. He said he wants to redeem himself and then rolled over on his bed." She shrugged. "I'll just get him some dinner and give it to him when we get back to the ship."

Zuko shook his head. "He's just moping right now… give him time. He'll come to understand this is what's best at the moment."

Katara nodded. "I guess." She then looked between the two of us with suspicion. "Did I break something up? Where are the others?"

I blushed. I knew what Katara was insinuating. She knew Zuko and I were making out.

Zuko answered though. "You and Sokka… you both think all Amara and I ever do is kiss."

Katara rolled her eyes. "So that's a yes."

Toph walked over with a pastry in her hand, answering, "Yep. I could feel them smooching a mile away."

Katara grabbed my arm and carted me off from Zuko. "Then I think they've had their alone time."

Toph laughed. I heard Zuko let out a deep breath and follow behind us. Zuko muttered, "And I thought Sokka was the overprotective cousin."

Katara answered back, "Trust me. I am ten times worse. I have the water whips."

I covered my face with my free hand in embarrassment as Katara pulled me along.

Another hour passed. We had eaten dinner and returned to the ship. Once we got onboard, Katara left us to go give Aang food. As she went down below deck, the rest of us prepared the ship for departure again. After Zuko and I tied down the freshly bought supplies, we gave Yuna, Momo, and Appa their food. The animals were acting strange though. They appeared to be restless about something. I pet Yuna, trying to console her as she whined. Zuko had just finished placing some hay in front of a depressed looking Appa when we heard the door that led below deck slam open.

Looking over from where we were, we saw Katara run across the deck towards the front of the ship that was facing open water. We stopped what we were doing, startled by her strange actions. We continued to watch as Katara ran over to Hakoda and Bato. I wondered what was wrong with her. I could see she was crying and upset. She said something to the two men, and Bato looked uncomfortable. Bato said something to Hakoda, and then left the two alone.

Once Bato walked over to us, Zuko asked him what was going on.

He shrugged. "I'm not entirely sure. Katara seems really upset about something. From what I gathered, it sounds to me like Aang left."

Yuna flew onto my shoulder, giving a sad 'mew,' and I stroked her wings finally understanding why she was upset. Appa, Momo, and her must've seen Aang leave while we were in town. Bato's words made my heart twist in pain. "I can't believe he'd just leave… It's not like him… especially not like him to leave Appa and Momo…"

Sokka, the Freedom Fighters, and Toph came over upon seeing the worry on our expressions, wanting to know what was happening too. Sokka asked, having not heard our conversation, "What's going on?"

Zuko answered, "Bato said Katara is upset. It sounds like Aang left."

Sokka was horrified. "Left? To go where?!"

We glanced over to where Katara was now hugging Hakoda. I assumed she finally told him why she had been bitter all day and they had made up. This made me a little relieved to see the two had mended whatever was wrong. However, I still was worried about Aang.

Katara finally came over with a note that she had in her hand. Hakoda walked behind her, and I could see he was upset about whatever they were about to tell us.

Sokka asked as she approached, "Katara… What's going on?"

Katara handed the note to Sokka. As he read over it, she explained, "Aang's gone… He said he had to leave. He had to redeem his honor. He's going to face the Fire Lord alone."

Sokka lowered the note. "I guess he's worse than I thought. I can't believe he'd do this, though! He's going to ruin our plans!"

Zuko pinched the bridge of his nose and shut his eyes with frustration. "I know…" He opened his eyes again and crossed his arms. "But… I understand him… I mean, speaking as someone with experience… When one wants to redeem their honor, that can cloud their judgment."

Toph asked with concern, "So… What do we do? We can't just let Twinkletoes go off on his own. Especially not into the Fire Nation."

Zuko answered. "It's clear what we have to do. Aang isn't ready to face my father. We have to go after him and stop him. The kid is still injured. He needs more time to heal."

Katara covered her eyes again and cried, "I'm so worried about him. What if he passes out flying over the ocean? What if he drowns?"

I moved over to Katara and gave her a hug. She hugged me back, crying into my shoulder. I tried to reassure her. I rubbed her back to soothe her. "Aang's a strong kid, Katara… He'll be okay. You know that."

She sniffled, but nodded against me.

Sokka let out a heavy sigh. "We all know Aang can survive anything. He'll be okay. And we'll find him. But… This does mean that we'll need to split up. It will be faster for us to go after him on Appa." He looked around the group. "We can only take the usual, though. Appa was really weighed down the last time."

Jet nodded. "We'll stick with your dad and the Water Tribe warriors. We'll head to the meet up spot at the Black Cliffs where we'll begin the invasion in a few weeks. You all go after Aang."

Sokka nodded. "Okay." He looked over at Zuko. "You know how to track Aang the best. So you're in charge of direction, Zuko. You know how to steer Appa, right?"

Zuko was surprised that he was being placed in charge of steering Appa. However, he nodded, saying, "We need to head straight towards the Fire Nation. That's where Aang would be heading."

Toph exclaimed, "Well then, what are we waiting for?! Let's get moving! Who knows what trouble that kid's getting into!"

We quickly prepped Appa's new saddle which the Water Tribe warriors had helped us make during our time at Chameleon Bay. When we had our bags and supplies ready and on the saddle, we said goodbye to Hakoda and Bato.

As I hugged Hakoda goodbye, he said, "Take care of yourself, Amara. Watch over my children for me."

I nodded. "Always." I pulled away and then said softly, "Be careful too."

He smirked. "I always am." He cupped my cheek then. His blue eyes watered. "I'm so glad I finally got to meet you, Amara. Your mother would be so proud of what you've accomplished."

I smiled, and my eyes watered as well as my heart warmed from his kindness. "Thank you, Hakoda. I'm glad I finally got to meet you too."

Hakoda went to hug his children goodbye then. As he did, I turned to say farewell to Bato. He quickly pulled me into his arms, and his embrace reminded me a lot of Iroh's… Kind and warm.

I hugged him back, saying, "Take care, Bato. We'll see you in a few weeks."

He hugged me closer, saying, "Please, be careful. And keep an eye on your cousins. They're prone to getting into trouble. Especially Sokka."

I laughed a little, pulled away, and said, "I've definitely learned that since meeting them."

He brushed a strand of my black hair behind my ear. "I wish Kala were here to see how amazing her daughter has become."

I shut my eyes and brushed my finger on my mother's necklace. "Me too…"

A few moments later, we were on Appa and ready to go. We waved goodbye to the Water Tribe warriors, and The Freedom Fighters. Then Zuko grabbed the reins, shouting, "Yip yip!"

We took off then, all of us but Toph keeping an eye out for any sign of Aang. Appa groaned, calling out for Aang as well as we flew over the water towards the Fire Nation. Yuna was perched on the side of the saddle beside me, looking out as well. Momo was sitting by Toph, his ears down in sadness from Aang's absence.

After just an hour of flying, we came up on a blockade. They had spotted us and started firing at us. Thankfully, Zuko managed to steer Appa over the fireballs without a problem. We all let out a breath of relief when the blockade was no longer in our sight. We had made it safely into the Fire Nation.

The Fire Nation… we were even closer to the place of my birth… closer to the darkest memories of my past…

I shivered. I tried to shake the thought. I knew I needed to focus on our mission. Aang… We had to find Aang.

Eventually, a mass of land appeared in the distance. The shape of it was crescent, and from what I could tell it was nothing but rock from what was once lava. I could see however there were areas that still had lava flowing.

"Wow… everything is gone…" Sokka muttered. "I didn't realize the whole island would be destroyed."

Toph didn't know what was going on. "What is it?"

Katara explained. "It's Crescent Island. Roku's temple used to be here, but last time we were here the volcano on the island erupted and destroyed everything."

Sokka argued. "Correction! Avatar Roku destroyed everything!"

Zuko spoke. "Wow… I almost forgot about that. Who knew that was the moment I'd be meeting my great-grandfather for the first time…"

Sokka gasped. "Yeah! He clearly knew you were his great-grandson! He set you free that day too! Now I get it! He didn't want you to drown in lava!"

Toph was stunned. "So, the island is just lava now?"

Katara shook her head. "Not completely. It's more rock and some magma."

Zuko gasped. "And Aang!"

We were stunned and looked at where he was pointing. There, on a cooled surface of the land by the water, was Aang. He was lying flat on his stomach, unconscious it appeared. Zuko steered Appa and managed to land us on the cooled surface. We quickly got off and raced over to where Aang was still on the ground. Just as we approached, Aang was starting to come to. He got on his knees and groaned.

"Aang!" Katara cried.

He looked over at us with surprise.

Katara dropped beside him and grabbed him into a hug. "You're okay!"

He was still stunned by our sudden appearance. However, he dropped his head on Katara's shoulder. Sokka, Toph, and I joined the group hug.

Zuko stood beside us with relief– not one for group hugs– saying, "Thanks for giving us all a heart attack, Aang."

Aang spoke softly, "I have so much to do."

Katara pulled away, and the rest of us followed. She said, standing and holding her hand down to him, "I know, but you'll have our help."

He nodded and took her hand. She helped him up. The rest of us were standing again, elated that we had found Aang.

"Thanks… for finding me," Aang said. "I shouldn't have left like that."

Toph crossed her arms. "You didn't think you could get out of training just by coming to the Fire Nation, did you?"

Zuko added, "And you haven't even started firebending! I have a whole lesson plan. There's no way you're getting out of it!"

Aang looked at all of us with a small smile. "I know." Then he asked, "But what about the invasion?"

Sokka explained. "We'll join up with my dad and the invasion force the day of the eclipse."

Toph suddenly sensed something nearby. She walked over to a broken glider on the ground that had washed ashore.. "Hey… What's…" She picked it up, and then she realized what it was. "Oh… It's your glider."

Aang walked over to her and took it in his hands. "It's okay. If someone saw it, it would give away my identity. It's better for now that no one knows I'm alive." He used airbending to shoot himself over to an area where lava was flowing. Then he stuck the glider into the flowing hot stream, and it caught fire. Momo had flown over with him, and landed on his shoulder.

Once Aang had destroyed his glider, he came back over to us.

"Sorry for worrying everyone," he spoke, hanging his head.

Toph smirked. "We'll get you back for it, Twinkletoes."

I added, "We're just glad you're okay, Aang."

He smiled at me in gratitude. Then he asked, "So… we keep heading west?"

Sokka nodded. "Yeah. We'll hop islands until we make our way to the Black Cliffs. We have to stay in stealth mode, so we'll need to practice caution. Just so you all know, we're in enemy territory now."

"Thanks for the obvious, Sokka," Katara muttered.

The group started to head back to Appa. Yuna landed on my shoulder as I lingered behind. I stared out at the water of the Fire Nation, a twist in my heart.

Images flashed through me: my mom… Zhao… Uncle Xi… Admiral Gru… the estate…

Would we end up on Shuhon Island in the coming days? And if we did… would I truly be strong enough to face the last monster of my past?

I shut my eyes, whispering, "The Fire Nation… We're in the Fire Nation, Yuna…" I pet Yuna on the head and she purred from the motion. I continued to speak, my throat catching a little. I opened my eyes and stared at the water again. "I never thought I'd come back here… It feels like a dream. I… can't believe I'm really back."

Yuna gave a small 'mew,' and rubbed her cheek on my own. Her reassurance was just what I needed.

I took in a deep breath. I dropped my hand from her and held it out towards the water. "Yeah. You're right. It will be okay…"

I lifted a ball of water into the air and heated it. The element steamed and bubbled in front of me.

"I'm not the same girl I was the last time I was here. This time… this time no one is hurting me or my family. This time I won't stand back. I'll fight for the people I love… I will do what I can to make this world safe."

I dropped the steaming liquid back into the water below. Then, with burning determination, I turned and made my way towards my family.

I was ready…

Ready to fight…

Ready to win.