Chapter 9: Release
The morning sun streamed through the window of the small bagel shop, casting a warm glow over the wooden tables. Aang and Toph sat across from each other, each with a steaming cup of tea and a selection of bagels. The shop was quiet, save for the occasional clink of dishes and the hum of conversation
."So, what do you think will happen with Azula once we get her back?" Toph asked, breaking the silence as she spread cream cheese on her bagel.
Aang took a thoughtful bite of his own bagel before replying. "I'll probably take her back to the Fire Nation. Zuko should handle it from there."Toph looked up, raising an eyebrow.
"And what exactly do you think Zuko will do? Will he just throw her back in prison?"
Aang hesitated, his gaze drifting to the window. "I'm not sure. It's possible he might. But maybe after everything she's been through, he could give her a chance to reintegrate into society, even if not as a royal."
Toph shrugged. "Not that I care much, but it seems like she's been through hell. Zuko might owe her a chance to get back on her feet. I doubt he'll be eager to do that, though."
Aang nodded slowly. "I'll think about it. Maybe there's a way to convince him to help her more than just locking her up again."
Finishing their breakfast, they headed to a nearby clothing shop. Inside, Aang picked out several sets of Earth Kingdom-style clothing—simple and practical, a stark contrast to Azula's previous attire, which had always been in line with the Fire Nation's regal style.With the bag of clothes in hand, they made their way to the Water Tribe Consulate. The building was a stark contrast to the bustling city outside, its serene façade belying the urgency of their mission.
As they entered, the elder in charge greeted them with a curt nod. "The princess is awake and can be discharged. Please, sooner than later would be best."Aang and Toph walked down the hall to the room where Azula was being held. The sight that met them was disheartening: Azula was restrained to the bed, her face contorted in anger as she cursed at a young Water Tribe woman trying to feed her.
Toph chuckled softly and elbowed Aang. "All you, buddy," she said, before turning and walking out.
Azula's eyes flicked towards Toph as she left, then zeroed in on Aang. Her expression shifted to one of disdain.
"Oh great. The mighty Avatar has come to take me back to prison. We must all bow down and give praise."
Aang remained stoic as he approached her. He began to undo her restraints with calm precision. The young Water Tribe woman's eyes widened in shock, but Aang's voice was steady.
"She isn't a prisoner."Azula looked at him with a mix of disbelief and mistrust as he removed her final leg restraint.
When Aang extended a hand to help her up, she noticed for the first time that she was wearing only a thin hospital-style gown, open at the back. Her cheeks flushed a deep red as she instinctively tried to cover herself with her hands.
Aang called out, "Toph, could you bring in the bag?"Toph reappeared briefly, setting the bag down by the door before quickly exiting again.Azula scowled at the bag of clothes as she opened it. The Earth Kingdom-style garments—green and simple—didn't sit well with her. "I'm not wearing these," she declared firmly.
From the other side of the door, Toph's voice chimed in, teasing, "Hey, you can go nude if you'd rather!"Azula glared at the door but said nothing.
After a moment of hesitation, she begrudgingly began to change. A few minutes later, she emerged, dressed in the green clothing with visible reluctance. Her eyes darted around, still wary.Aang gave her a small, reassuring smile.
"Let's get some lunch. I'll explain everything then."They left the consulate and hailed a pedal cab. The driver, alert and ready, accepted the coins Aang handed him and promised a generous tip for a quick arrival.The small diner near Toph's apartment was quiet and inviting.
The three of them settled at a table, and as they waited for their food, Aang prepared to explain the situation to Azula.