The Destruction of War- Book 3: Fire

by Vapor23

Book 3 of a trilogy. After a crucial victory in Ba Sing Se, Aang and his friends fight to maintain momentum in the war. But Bumi's final wish lingers in their minds as they face their greatest challenge yet — defeating the Fire Nation once and for all. Love blossoms with Kataang at its heart, while destiny and duty collide in this thrilling conclusion.

11. Chapter 11: To Face the Flames

Chapter 11: To Face the Flames

AN: Oh my gosh, we're starting with the second half of the story! I think this is the last super long chapter for a while, now that I'm finally getting the story to where I want it to go. I really appreciate everyone's support lately. It has been absolutely incredible! I can't tell you how much it means to me!

Latte and michaela, I see your reviews! I promise you I'm slowly working on catching up with the review responses!

Chapter 10 Review Responses:

Madslynx: WOAH, favorite chapter alert?! Now that's a true honor! You're totally right, Aang totally deserved this moment to rest and heal, and it feels like forever since we've seen him TRULY happy. The Fire Nation arc is a fun one, I can promise you that :) And there are hints of who his firebending teacher is going to be in this chapter! Wow, wow, wow! Those are some incredible compliments my friend! Thank you first off for telling me that my writing has improved, it means the absolute world to me. But book level writing? That compliment is incredible. Not sure if I deserve that praise, but I really appreciate it! I'm sorry that you're dealing with writers block again. I faced it so many times writing this book actually. I know you have quite a bit of wiggle room built up, so don't be afraid to just give yourself a break and some time to rest! Yes, it's so good to see Aang eating again, I like the analogy to your story! I didn't even realize that was there :) And yes, Katara is ALWAYS there for Aang, no matter what. It's so sweet :) Thanks for your review, and your continued support my friend! Hope you enjoy this chapter too!

Kalaong: EXACTLY! That's my favorite thing about this show. And what I tried to highlight a little bit throughout this rewrite. Although we love all the characters, they are all super flawed. Aang still is dealing with being the sole survivor of a genocide, and so when moments happen such as Appa being taken or another person he loves almost being taken from him such as Katara, he launches into the Avatar State and lets out his rage. Katara like you mentioned is full of compassion and empathy, but also has a temper and states things that she doesn't mean sometime. Sokka is overconfident but is afraid to let himself be vulnerable. Zuko... well I can go on and on about his character arc but that would take so much longer. That's what makes this show so amazing. Is the fact that all the characters are flawed and GROW throughout the series. Thanks for the insght my friend!

Latte28: Wow! Thank you so much for the review! Glad you loved this chapter so much and how Kataang focused it was, especially the argument. That was my favorite too :) Will get a proper response to you sometime this weekend!

---

The golden glow of late morning sunlight streamed through the window, casting soft beams across the room. The air was still, warm, and peaceful — the kind of peace that felt well-earned after the storm of emotions from the day before.

Katara stirred first, her eyes slowly blinking open. Her gaze shifted upward, and there he was. Aang, still fast asleep, his arms loosely draped around her like she was something precious he never wanted to let go of. His breathing was soft and steady, the gentle rise and fall of his chest lulling her back into a state of calm. For a moment, she debated closing her eyes again. It had been like this twice already that morning — waking, seeing him still so at peace, and letting the warmth of his presence pull her back into sleep. But this time, her mind refused to quiet.

The events of the previous day played in her mind like ripples on water. Aang's sudden declaration of his plan to head straight into the Fire Nation. Their heated argument. The way he had shouted, not out of anger, but out of something raw and vulnerable that had shaken her to her core. His confession — not just of his love for her, but of his hope for the life they could build together. And her own decision to stand with him, no matter what lay ahead.

Her eyes drifted back to his face. The tension he'd carried for so long was gone in sleep, leaving only the boy she loved. No Avatar. No weight of the world on his shoulders. Just Aang. And looking at him now, she felt it again — that quiet certainty she'd had last night. This was right. This was where she was meant to be.

As if feeling her gaze on him, Aang's eyelids slowly fluttered open. He blinked once, then twice, his gray eyes cloudy with sleep as he adjusted to the morning light. His gaze settled on her, and almost immediately, a slow, sleepy smile spread across his face.

"Good morning, sleepyhead," she greeted softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Aang gave a small grunt in response, followed by a wide yawn that made his whole body stretch briefly before he relaxed again. "Mornin', Katara," he murmured, his words slurred with drowsiness but carrying warmth all the same.

Katara smiled as she nuzzled a little closer, resting her head against his chest and letting his heartbeat fill her ears. "Got any plans for the day?" she asked playfully, her fingers lightly tracing idle patterns along his arm.

There was a long pause as Aang's face scrunched in mock concentration, his eyes closed like he was weighing the most important decision of his life. Then, a grin tugged at his lips. "How about… this?" he suggested, his arms tightening around her in a gentle but firm embrace.

Her soft laugh vibrated against his chest, and she tilted her head just enough to press a kiss to his chin — the closest part of him she could reach without moving. "If that's what you want it to be, then sure," she replied with a contented sigh.

Aang's eyes slid shut once more, his face the picture of peace. "Yeah… I'd like that," he mumbled, his voice as lazy as the sunlit warmth surrounding them.

Katara's heart swelled. It wasn't the plan she'd expected, but it was perfect. For so long, Aang had carried so much — fear, doubt, responsibility. But right now, all he wanted was to hold her close. And she would give him that for as long as he needed.

The only thing that broke the peace was the loud, unmistakable growl of Aang's stomach.

Katara blinked before her eyes widened in surprise, and then she let out a burst of laughter. The sound echoed off the walls, light and free. "Well, I guess your stomach has other plans," she teased, looking up at him with a grin that made her eyes crinkle at the edges.

Aang's chuckle was soft but genuine, and his eyes opened just enough to meet hers. "Yeah… probably should listen to it, huh?"

"Probably," she said, wiping the last bits of sleep from her eyes. "Besides, I'll take it as a good sign. A month ago, I had to fight you just to get you to eat anything."

"True," Aang admitted, his face reddening a bit. "I guess I'm making progress." He sat up slowly, rubbing the back of his head with a sheepish grin.

"You are," she assured him, sitting up alongside him. Her hand found his, their fingers interlocking naturally. She gave him a small squeeze. "Come on, let's get something to eat."

"Only if you promise to let me nap after," he teased, his eyes flicking toward her, his grin lopsided but bright.

"Deal," she agreed with a playful nudge to his shoulder.

Hand in hand, they made their way out of the room, each step slow and unhurried. It wasn't just their pace — it was the feeling of it. The calm after the storm. The quiet after all the shouting, the hurt, and the fear. Every step felt like a choice, deliberate and steady. Together.

The golden glow of early morning had shifted into the sharper, brighter light of late morning, streaming through the windows of the kitchen. The soft clatter of dishes and the muted hum of conversation filled the air, blending with the rich scent of fresh rice, grilled fish, and the earthy aroma of tea. Hakoda sat at the head of the table, his eyes distant but watchful as he quietly ate his meal. Kya sat to his right, her gaze flicking to the doorway every so often, as if waiting for something — or someone. Across from them, Sokka and Rina sat side by side, their soft murmurs and occasional laughs filling the space with a rare sense of ease.

Then, Aang and Katara entered the room.

Conversation stopped. Forks paused. Sokka leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing in instant awareness. Rina glanced between Hakoda and Kya, reading their expressions before settling her gaze on Katara. Her eyes were thoughtful but quiet.

Aang didn't acknowledge it. Or if he did, he acted as though he didn't. His focus remained on Katara. Moving ahead of her, he pulled out a chair, his actions smooth and deliberate. Katara blinked, momentarily caught off guard, but she settled into the seat with a small smile of gratitude. Aang followed her motion, taking the seat next to hers, and their legs brushed together under the table, a brief, subtle contact. He didn't shift away. Neither did she.

"Good morning," Aang said, his tone light and easy, like everything was completely normal.

No one replied. Silence settled over the room like a heavy fog. Katara felt it immediately — the weight of their stares pressing on her shoulders. It wasn't harsh or angry, but it was there, thick with doubt and unspoken questions. She knew exactly what it was. They were still thinking about her decision from yesterday.

Her fingers curled against the edge of the table, the slow flare of frustration rising in her chest. If no one else was going to speak, she would. She'd tell them all off right then and there if she had to—

"So," Sokka said suddenly, his voice cutting through the stillness like a sharp blade. He leaned forward, planting his elbows on the table, hands clasped together in front of him. His eyes locked on Aang, sharp and skeptical. "Rina and I have been talking about your plan. And we've got questions."

Katara's eyes darted to Sokka, catching the seriousness in his gaze. But Aang didn't so much as flinch. He reached for Katara's plate, scooping a small helping of rice onto it before filling his own. "Of course," he said easily, his tone carrying no defensiveness, only calm. "Go ahead."

Sokka eyed him for a moment longer, then leaned further forward. "How are we even getting to the Fire Nation?" he asked, his eyes narrowing. "I know we have Appa, but come on, he'd give us away instantly. Big flying bison in the sky? It's not exactly subtle."

Aang didn't hesitate. "I've already thought about that," he said, sprinkling some seasoning on his rice like he'd prepared for this exact moment. "We'll head to Whale Tail Island and ask Captain Taro and Katsu if they'll take us again. Appa can stay under the ship, like last time. We'll stay hidden until we're in Fire Nation waters. They make trades there all the time, so no one will think twice about it."

Sokka raised his eyebrows in surprise, leaning back slowly. He tapped his fingers against the table, nodding in quiet approval. "Huh," he muttered, eyes narrowing as his mind worked. "That's… actually pretty smart."

"Thanks," Aang said with a small grin before popping a spoonful of rice into his mouth.

Rina leaned forward next, her eyes sharper now, studying him carefully. "Okay," she said slowly, her tone firm. "But what happens when we actually get there? What's the plan after that?"

Aang swallowed his food and wiped his mouth with a cloth, his gaze turning to Rina, calm and steady. "I have a friend in the Fire Nation," he said plainly. "His name's Kuzon. He lives in Sunset City — it's close to the Fire Nation capital. If we can get there, I'm hoping to stay with him for a bit. I'll train in firebending, get stronger, and prepare for what's next. When I'm ready, we'll make our move toward the capital."

For a moment, no one spoke. Everyone at the table just stared. Even Sokka tilted his head, his face scrunched with confusion.

"You… have a friend in the Fire Nation?" Rina asked, her brow raised like she wasn't sure she'd heard him right.

"Yep," Aang replied, his grin wider now. "He's a good friend too. He's always been kind of a rebel, so I'm pretty sure he'll help us."

This time, Kya was the one to speak. Her gaze shifted to Katara for a brief second before she addressed Aang. "How are you going to blend in otherwise?" she asked, her voice gentle but firm. "Katara will stand out the second she steps foot on their shores. Her parka alone will give her away."

Aang nodded like he'd been expecting this. "I know," he said plainly. "That's why I'm hoping Katara and I can work together to sew some new outfits before we go. I've been there enough to know how they dress, so we'll be prepared."

That answer didn't seem to ease Kya's concern. Her lips pressed into a thin line, and her gaze dropped to her plate, her fingers tapping against the rim. Hakoda, however, leaned forward, his eyes locked on Aang with that same steady, firm intensity he always carried.

"You've clearly thought about a lot of this," Hakoda said, his tone even, but there was a sharpness underneath it. "But I want to know something else." He glanced briefly at Katara, his gaze lingering longer than it had before, before settling back on Aang. His shoulders straightened as he leaned forward, his hands folded together in front of him. "How are you going to lead my daughter — and possibly my son and Rina — into the most dangerous place you've ever been? And how are you going to make sure they all stay safe?"

The weight of the question was heavier than anything that had come before. It wasn't just a question. It was a challenge.

Aang stilled. He set his spoon down slowly and folded his hands in his lap. His eyes stayed on Hakoda, not shying away from him, not looking at Katara or Sokka for help. He took a slow, deep breath.

"I can't promise anything," he said quietly but clearly. "There's always going to be a risk. I know that. And I'm not going to lie to you and pretend otherwise." He glanced down at the table for just a moment, his fingers curling tightly together. "But I'm not going to be leading anyone. I learned the hard way that I can't do that — not again." His eyes flicked toward Katara, and she knew exactly what he was talking about. "I can't lead like that. Not if I want to be at my best for what's ahead. I'm trusting all of you to be with me, not behind me."

Under the table, Katara's hand found his. Her fingers slid into his, her grip firm and steady. She gave his hand a small squeeze, telling him without words that she agreed.

Silence hung over the table like a heavy fog, slow and suffocating. Then, Sokka let out a deep breath. He leaned back in his chair, his face thoughtful but less tense than before. His eyes flicked toward Aang, and something like appreciation passed across his face.

"You've really thought about all of this, huh?" he muttered, his voice carrying an edge of reluctant respect.

Aang nodded slowly, his voice quieter but no less firm. "Trust me, Sokka. I wouldn't be doing this — or asking any of you to join me — if I didn't think we had a real chance." He glanced toward Sokka and Rina. "I get it if you don't want to come. But just know… I'd miss you like crazy if you didn't."

The silence returned. It stretched on longer this time. Katara and Aang returned to eating, letting the quiet fill the space as everyone mulled it over.

Then, without warning, Rina leaned forward, her eyes sharp with certainty. "I'm in," she said, her voice steady as stone.

All heads turned toward her in shock.

Rina sat straighter, her hands resting firmly on the table. Her gaze didn't waver. "I joined this fight because I wanted to help make the world a better place," she said, her voice clear and unwavering. "And I'm not stopping now. If this is what it takes to bring real peace, then I'm ready to face the risks. I'm not afraid of it."

Her words hung in the air for a moment, as solid and immovable as a mountain. No one spoke at first, but Sokka's face slowly shifted, surprise giving way to something warmer. He glanced at Rina, his eyes lingering on her for just a second longer than usual before turning to Aang. His grin came in slow and steady, and there was a flicker of pride in his eyes.

"Well, if she's in, then I'm in too," Sokka said, leaning back in his chair like it was the easiest decision in the world. He laced his hands behind his head, his grin sharp and familiar. "Besides, someone's gotta keep you two out of trouble. You're always getting into something."

Katara glanced between them, her gaze softening with something deeper than relief. Her eyes settled on Rina first, then Sokka, and she nodded once. Her heart felt heavier, but not in a bad way. It was full now, weighed down with quiet gratitude.

"Thank you," she said softly, the weight of her words stronger than she intended. Her eyes stayed on them a moment longer, letting them feel it — all of it. The gratitude, the relief, the hope. It was all there in her voice, even if she didn't say the rest.

But Hakoda and Kya remained quiet. Neither of them spoke, and neither of them moved. Katara glanced at them, her chest tightening. They didn't look angry. They didn't look at peace, either. Hakoda's eyes were distant, his brow furrowed as his fingers tapped a slow, thoughtful rhythm against the table. Kya's gaze had dropped to her plate, her lips pressed together in a line that could have been worry or quiet acceptance.

No one pushed them for a response. No one dared.

The quiet stretched on, heavy but not unbearable. It wasn't the kind of silence that came before a storm. It was the kind that came after it — that calm, tense stillness where everything is soaked through but still standing.

The storm hadn't passed just yet. But it was closer. Closer than it had ever been.

Aang's gaze shifted from Sokka and Rina to Hakoda and Kya. Their silence pressed down on him more than any words ever could. His fingers curled slightly on the edge of the table, his nails just barely grazing the wood. Slowly, he straightened, his eyes steady but soft, his voice quieter than before.

"I know it's a lot to process right now," Aang said, his voice carrying a quiet weight. "And I'll respect your decision if you don't want Sokka or Katara to come with me." He glanced between them, making sure to meet both of their eyes. "But… please consider it. Just think about it." His voice softened further, quieter but somehow heavier. "That's all I'm asking."

He lingered just long enough for his words to settle into the air, then silently pushed his chair back and stood. He didn't wait for a reply, his steps quiet but purposeful as he made his way out of the kitchen.

Katara watched him leave, her eyes following him every step of the way. Her heart tugged in two different directions. She could feel the quiet storm still brewing at the table, the weight of her parents' thoughts hanging in the air like distant thunder. But her eyes shifted back to Aang, her resolve firming in her chest.

Her chair scraped softly against the floor as she stood. She didn't say anything to her family, didn't try to explain herself or defend Aang's words. She just followed him. Her steps were quieter than his, but just as certain.

She found him in the small living area just beyond the kitchen. The room was lit by the faint glow of daylight peeking through the wooden slats of the window. Aang sat on the couch, his elbows on his knees, hands clasped loosely in front of him. His head was tilted forward, shoulders just barely hunched. He didn't say anything when she walked in, but his head turned slightly, like he knew she was there.

Katara approached slowly, her eyes softening as she took in the way his shoulders rose and fell with each breath. She didn't ask if he was okay — she already knew the answer. Instead, she eased down beside him, close enough that her knee bumped against his.

She leaned back first, her eyes flicking up to the ceiling for a moment. Then she reached over, her hand resting lightly against his back. Her fingers curled gently, pressing small, steady circles into the space between his shoulder blades.

"Come here," she murmured, her voice low and warm. Her hand slowly guided him back, her touch firm but patient, never forcing him to move — only encouraging him. Aang didn't resist. He shifted without hesitation, letting himself lean back until his head rested against her chest, his whole body following in turn. His eyes closed briefly, his breath steadying as he settled against her.

Her other arm came around him, draping over his chest like a shield. Her fingers returned to his back, moving in slow, careful circles, tracing patterns that had no beginning and no end. His weight was solid against her, grounding her in a way she didn't know she needed.

Aang shifted just slightly, reaching off to the side to grab the folded blanket lying at the end of the couch. He flicked it open with a single movement, pulling it over both of them in one smooth motion. Katara pulled it higher over his shoulders, tucking it in securely before resting her hand back on his back.

His eyes stayed open a moment longer, gazing up at her, wide and vulnerable. His voice, when it finally came, was as soft as the brush of a feather.

"Do you think I made them upset with me?" he asked, his eyes never leaving hers. There was no panic in his tone, just quiet, genuine worry.

Katara's heart clenched, and her fingers stilled for just a moment. Her eyes softened further as she brushed her hand slowly through his hair, smoothing it back with gentle strokes. Her thumb lingered just behind his ear, her movements slow and deliberate.

"Don't worry about that right now," she told him, her voice low but firm. Her words wrapped around him like the blanket, warm and protective. "We'll handle it later. Right now, we just need to rest. We need to get stronger."

Aang's eyes lingered on hers for a second longer, searching for something — and whatever it was, he must have found it. His head nestled further into her chest, his body growing heavier against her. His eyes slowly closed, his breathing steadying into a slow, even rhythm.

Katara watched him, her heart swelling with a quiet ache. She hadn't realized how exhausted he'd been until now. The weight he'd been carrying — from their mission, from his role as the Avatar, from everything he'd taken on for her and for the world — it was all right there, in the way he finally let himself rest.

Her fingers moved in steady, deliberate circles on his back. Her gaze didn't leave his face, her eyes tracing every line, every curve of his features. Her breathing matched his, slower now, deeper. The warmth of his body pressed into hers, and she could feel the steady beat of his heart beneath her fingertips.

Her eyes grew heavier, and for once, she didn't fight it.

Her fingers slowed, the circles smaller but no less gentle. Her head tilted back, her eyes fluttering closed. She could still feel him breathing, steady and sure, and she let that be the last thing she focused on before her thoughts drifted into stillness.

The world outside the small home moved on, the light shifting softly as the sun climbed higher in the sky. But in that small space, wrapped in the quiet warmth of each other, time didn't matter.

For now, they could rest. And that was enough.

---

A couple of days later, the warm glow of late afternoon sunlight streamed through the window, casting long golden beams across the floor. The soft hum of the outside world drifted in through the cracks, distant voices and the gentle lap of water against the docks filling the air with a soothing rhythm. It was peaceful — a rare kind of peace that Katara and Aang had learned to savor whenever they could.

They lay together on the worn couch, limbs tangled in a way that spoke of comfort more than necessity. Katara reclined on the cushions, her head resting against the arm of the couch, while Aang lay sideways across her, his head resting on her stomach. His arms were folded beneath him like a pillow, his body curled slightly as if he were soaking up every ounce of warmth she had to offer. Katara's fingers combed gently through his hair, slow and absent, her other hand tracing light patterns on his back.

"Okay, but if we have to blend in," Katara muttered, her voice muffled by his body being pressed against her, "we're going to need new clothes. Fire Nation robes aren't exactly subtle."

"Mm, true," Aang agreed, his voice light with amusement. "But we'll make it work. I've seen plenty of Fire Nation clothes in my time, and I think I can make something for us. Just don't expect anything fancy." His lips tugged into a grin as he glanced up at her. "I'm not exactly a tailor."

"I'm sure it'll be perfect," Katara said, tilting her head down just enough to glance at him with a small smile. "Besides, I'll wear anything you make me. Even if it's awful."

Aang snorted softly, rolling his eyes, but his grin only grew. His fingers shifted, gently running his hands through her hair. "Careful what you promise, Katara."

They fell into an easy, comfortable silence after that. No pressure to fill it with words, no urgency to plan every detail. Just them. Just peace.

But peace never lasted long.

The soft creak of a door opening drew both of their gazes toward the kitchen entrance. Hakoda and Kya stepped into view, their faces calm but serious. Their eyes met Aang's first, then flickered briefly to Katara before settling back on Aang. It wasn't an unkind look, but it carried the weight of something unspoken.

"We'd like to talk to you, Aang," Hakoda said, his tone as firm as a leader giving orders. Then his gaze shifted to Katara. "Alone."

Katara sat up so fast that Aang almost slipped off of her lap. Her eyes narrowed as her shoulders squared, a flash of defiance tightening her jaw. "If it's about this plan, then I should be part of it too," she said firmly, her gaze sharp as the edge of a blade. "This affects me just as much as it affects him."

Her words hung in the air, and for a moment, it looked like she might stand her ground. But Kya stepped forward, her eyes full of quiet resolve. "Katara, please," Kya said softly but firmly. "This is something we need to speak to only him about, as your parents."

Katara's eyes darted to Aang, her lips pressing into a hard line. "As my parents?" she repeated, disbelief edging her voice. "I'm not a small child anymore." Her gaze flicked to Hakoda, then Kya. "You both know that."

"We do," Hakoda said, his voice gentle but unwavering. "But we still need to speak with Aang. Please."

Katara opened her mouth to argue, her breath sharp and ready to strike, but she felt the light squeeze of Aang's hand on hers. She looked down at him, his gray eyes steady but kind. There was no fear there, no hesitation, only quiet reassurance.

"I'll be okay," he said softly, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. "I promise."

Her jaw tightened, her fingers curling around his hand like she didn't want to let him go. But after a moment, her shoulders dropped, and she let out a slow breath. Reluctantly, she nodded.

"Fine," she muttered, rising from the couch with a glance back at Hakoda and Kya. Her eyes lingered on them longer than necessary, her gaze sharp with warning. "Don't gang up on him."

"We're just talking, Katara," Hakoda assured her, but she didn't look convinced.

Katara lingered at the doorway, glancing back at Aang one last time. He gave her a small, reassuring nod, and she finally turned and walked away, her steps quieter than usual. The faint sound of a door clicking shut echoed from down the hall.

Silence settled over the room, heavy and expectant. Aang sat up fully, rubbing the back of his neck before looking at Hakoda and Kya. They moved closer, each taking a seat across from him. Their gazes were serious, their postures tense but controlled.

Hakoda leaned forward, his forearms resting on his knees. "I'm going to be honest with you, Aang," he began, his voice low but firm. "This plan to infiltrate the Fire Nation — it's reckless. It's dangerous. It's..." He glanced briefly at Kya, his jaw tightening. "It's insane."

Kya nodded, her gaze soft but full of worry. "We just got them back," she said, her voice quiet but steady. "Sokka. Katara. They came back to us after so long. And now you're asking us to let them walk into something this dangerous? Something that could—" She stopped herself, her lips pressing into a thin line. Her eyes closed briefly before she let out a breath. "It concerns us, Aang. Deeply."

Aang's heart ached at their words. He understood them. Of course he did. But his gaze didn't waver. His hands pressed into his knees as he sat up straighter.

"I understand," he said quietly. "I do. And I'm not forcing them to go. I would never do that. This is their choice. They want to come with me." He glanced at Kya, then Hakoda. "All I'm asking is that you consider their voices too. Listen to them. I'm not taking them from you. They're choosing to stand with me."

Hakoda leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing slightly. He studied Aang for a long, quiet moment.

"Are you sure this is a good idea?" Hakoda asked, his tone sharper now, his eyes hard as steel. "Be honest with me, Aang. Are you absolutely sure this is the right move?"

Aang didn't hesitate. His hands curled on his knees as he leaned forward, meeting Hakoda's gaze with unwavering certainty.

"I've never been more sure of anything," he said firmly. "If I'm successful, the war will finally be over. We'll have peace. True peace." His eyes shifted toward Kya, his voice growing softer but more resolute. "And after the year I've had... after everything I've seen and lost... I'm willing to do whatever it takes to achieve that. Even if it's risky. Even if it's desperate."

Hakoda and Kya exchanged a glance. They didn't speak. They didn't need to. Their eyes met for a long, quiet moment, and something unspoken passed between them.

Finally, Hakoda let out a slow breath, his shoulders sinking. His eyes returned to Aang, calmer now but no less serious.

"...Alright," Hakoda said quietly. "They can go."

Aang blinked, his breath catching in his throat. His eyes flicked between them both, searching their faces as if he hadn't heard them right.

"Really?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

Kya nodded, her eyes sad but steady. "Yes," she said, her voice as firm as it had ever been. "They can go."

Aang sat in silence for a moment, his chest swelling with quiet relief. He stood, stepping forward, and gave both Hakoda and Kya a small, respectful bow.

"Thank you," he said softly, his voice thick with sincerity. "For everything."

---

The final day of the week arrived faster than any of them expected. The sea breeze rolled in from the distant shore, carrying the sharp, crisp scent of saltwater. The morning sun bathed the village in gold, casting long shadows across the ground. It should have felt peaceful. But the air was too still, too heavy with everything unspoken.

Near the edge of the village, Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Rina stood together beside Appa, his large frame casting a comforting shadow over them. The saddle was packed tight with supplies — food, water, and a few personal belongings. Appa let out a low rumbling groan, shifting his weight from one side to the other, his ears flicking as he glanced at them with sleepy eyes.

But none of them were focused on him right now. Their attention was on Hakoda and Kya, who stood just a few paces away, their faces pulled tight with quiet resolve. No one spoke at first. Not yet.

Katara glanced at her parents, her hands fidgeting at her sides. Her gaze shifted between them, searching for something in their eyes that she couldn't quite name. It wasn't permission. It wasn't reassurance. Maybe it was both. Her lips pressed into a thin line before she finally stepped forward.

"I guess this is it," she said, her voice steady but quieter than usual. Her throat felt tight, and her hands curled into her sides to keep them from shaking. She kept her eyes on her mother. "Mom…" Her voice cracked, and she sucked in a sharp breath, her eyes narrowing in frustration with herself.

She didn't have to say anything more. Kya stepped forward and pulled Katara into a firm hug, wrapping her arms around her daughter like she could protect her from every storm ahead. Katara froze at first, her arms stiff at her sides. But slowly, her breath shuddered, and she melted into it, clutching the back of her mother's tunic with trembling fingers.

"Stay strong, my little water lily," Kya whispered, her voice soft but firm. Her hand rubbed slow, steady circles on Katara's back. "You're braver than you think. And stronger, too. You'll see."

Katara nodded, her face buried against Kya's shoulder. Her eyes squeezed shut, but no tears fell. She wouldn't let them. Not now. Not yet.

When she pulled back, her eyes lingered on her mother's face for just a moment longer. Her gaze shifted to Hakoda next.

He hadn't moved. His arms were folded across his chest, his face a mask of steady calm. But Katara knew him too well. She saw it in the slight furrow of his brow, the way his jaw tensed as he glanced at her. His eyes — sharp and clear as ever — watched her closely, like he was committing every detail to memory.

Katara stepped forward slowly. Her lips pressed together as she tried to think of something to say. But what could she say that he didn't already know?

He opened his arms, and she stepped in without hesitation. His arms wrapped around her, strong and certain, and he pulled her close. Her breath hitched, but she didn't cry. She let herself feel the weight of it — the warmth, the steady rise and fall of his chest, the way his hand pressed gently against the back of her head.

"You're going to do great things, Katara," Hakoda murmured, his voice rough but certain. "But if it ever feels like too much… you come home. You hear me? You come home."

Katara nodded against him, her breath shaky. "I hear you," she whispered, and for the first time that day, her voice wavered.

When she stepped back, wiping at her eyes, Sokka stepped forward.

"Alright, my turn," he muttered, walking straight toward Hakoda. He didn't even wait for an invitation, throwing his arms around his father in one swift motion. Hakoda let out a small, startled grunt before wrapping his arms around his son with just as much force. Their hug was rougher, less delicate than his hug with Katara, but somehow, it carried just as much weight.

"Don't let her out of your sight," Hakoda said firmly, gripping Sokka's shoulder as he pulled back just enough to look him in the eye. "Not for a second. You got me?"

"Yeah, yeah," Sokka muttered, but his grin was small and honest. "No promises, though. You know how she is." He shot a glance at Katara, his eyes flicking with mischief. "Pretty stubborn, that one."

"Wonder where she gets that from," Kya remarked, her hands on her hips, one eyebrow raised in playful accusation.

Sokka snorted, shaking his head as he glanced between them. "Yeah, yeah, I'm surrounded by stubborn people. I'll manage."

Then, it was Aang's turn.

He glanced around like he wasn't sure if he was supposed to step forward or wait. His fingers tapped softly against the sides of his robes. But Kya didn't give him a chance to hesitate.

"Come here," she said, stepping forward with her arms open.

Aang blinked, his eyes wide with surprise. But he stepped forward, letting her wrap him in a warm, steady embrace. Her arms folded around him, her hand cradling the back of his head like she'd done with her own children. Aang stood there, still at first, like he wasn't sure what to do. Then, slowly, his arms came up, and he hugged her back, his fingers curling lightly into the fabric of her tunic.

"Be safe, Aang," Kya said softly, pulling back just enough to meet his gaze. Her hands cupped his face, her thumbs brushing against his cheeks. "Take care of yourself too. Not just them. You too."

"I will," Aang promised, his voice small but steady. His eyes glanced briefly at Katara and Sokka before looking back at Kya. "I promise."

When Kya stepped back, Hakoda stepped forward. He didn't say anything at first. He simply looked at Aang, his eyes sharp and calculating, but not unkind. Slowly, he raised his arm and extended his hand. Not for a handshake — for a Water Tribe handshake.

Aang blinked again, his eyes widening in surprise. He stepped forward, his hands slightly unsure at first. But then his grip firmed, his hand clasping Hakoda's forearm as Hakoda did the same. The two of them stood there for a moment, their grips strong and unwavering.

"Good luck out there," Hakoda said, his voice low but steady. "You'll need it."

Aang gave a small nod, his fingers gripping just a little tighter. "Thank you, Hakoda," he said quietly. "For everything."

They released their grips, but Hakoda didn't turn away. Not yet. Kya and Hakoda both started to step back, their eyes still on him, on Katara, on Sokka.

But before they could walk away, Aang's voice rang out.

"Hakoda. Kya."

They both stopped, turning back toward him. Aang stood tall, his shoulders squared and his face calm but firm. His hands hung at his sides, fingers curling gently into soft fists. He took a breath, his gaze as steady as it had ever been.

"I'm going to do everything I can to keep them safe," he said, his voice carrying across the clearing with weight far beyond his thirteen years. "I promise."

The words hung in the air for a moment, sharp as stone but soft as a breeze. And then, his voice grew stronger.

"And I'm going to bring peace to this world," he said, his eyes unwavering. "I swear it."

Kya's lips pressed together, her eyes shimmering with something too deep to name. Hakoda didn't speak right away. His eyes stayed locked on Aang, sharp and watchful. But slowly, he gave a single nod.

"I know you will, son," Hakoda said, his voice rough but clear. "I know you will."

Aang turned back to Appa. Katara followed him, her gaze still flicking toward her parents. Sokka climbed up next, offering a small salute toward Hakoda and Kya. Rina followed last, her eyes darting toward the family behind them one last time before turning forward.

"Yip-yip!" Aang called.

Appa let out a loud bellow, crouching low before springing into the sky. Hakoda and Kya stood side by side, watching them until they were just a small shape in the clouds.

"He's going to do it," Kya said quietly, her eyes still on the sky.

"Yeah," Hakoda muttered. "He is."

---

The journey to Whale Tail Island stretched across two peaceful days, the endless stretch of ocean below reflecting the vast, cloud-dotted sky above. The crisp, cool air blew past them in steady gusts, filling the silence with the gentle hum of rushing wind. For once, the world didn't feel so heavy.

Appa soared smoothly through the sky, his powerful tail sweeping back and forth in a steady rhythm. Below them, the Southern Water Tribe had long since disappeared, nothing but a fading memory on the distant horizon.

It was shortly after that horizon vanished that Aang called out softly.

"Hey… can we talk for a second?"

His voice wasn't loud, but it was enough to catch everyone's attention. Sokka glanced up from where he was leaning against Rina, his arm lazily draped around her shoulders. Katara, who had been gazing out over the clouds, sat up straighter. Rina tilted her head, her amber eyes focused on Aang with quiet curiosity.

Aang sat cross-legged near the edge of Appa's saddle, the wind tousling his hair. He stared ahead for a moment, his gaze distant, thoughtful. His hands rested lightly on his knees, fingers tapping in a slow, rhythmic pattern.

"I've been thinking," he began, glancing at each of them in turn. His gray eyes, usually so soft and light, held something more serious now. "About all of this. About… us."

He hesitated for a moment, searching for the right words. His fingers stopped tapping.

"I know this plan sounds… crazy," he admitted, letting out a breathy, almost self-deprecating laugh. "I mean, sneaking into the Fire Nation and somehow ending the war from inside? It's… not exactly the most sane plan." His gaze flicked to Sokka, a tiny smile tugging at his lips. "I'm pretty sure you've all figured that out."

Sokka tilted his head. "Figured it out? Oh, we knew." He waved a hand, grinning a little. "You're lucky we've all got a thing for crazy plans."

Aang huffed a quiet laugh, his gaze softening. "Yeah, I guess I am." His smile lingered for a moment longer before slowly fading. He looked down at his hands. His voice was quieter when he spoke again.

"But… it means a lot to me that you're coming with me. All of you." His hands pressed flat against his knees as he took a breath and lifted his head, his eyes steady and open. "I know you could have stayed behind. You should've stayed behind. It would've been safer, smarter. But… you didn't. You're here." His gaze lingered on each of them, eyes brimming with something deep and unspoken. "You trusted me. Even when everything about this felt impossible, you trusted me."

Silence settled over the group. No one spoke, but their eyes didn't leave him.

"I know it hasn't been easy," Aang continued, his voice rougher now. "Especially this past month. I… I know it wasn't easy seeing me like that. Seeing me so…" He paused, his eyes darting to the side. His throat bobbed in a small swallow before he pushed forward. "So broken."

Katara's face tightened, her eyes flickering with pain, but she didn't interrupt. Her fingers twitched at her side, like she wanted to reach for him but didn't want to break his momentum.

"But you never left," Aang said, his voice growing stronger. "Not once. You never gave up on me. And that…" He blinked hard, tilting his head to glance up at the open sky as if it might help steady him. His breath came in slow and deep. "That's something I won't ever forget. I'm so, so grateful for you all." His gaze settled back on them, warm and unwavering. "I promise you, I'm going to do everything I can to be worthy of that trust. We're going to bring peace to this world. Together."

He sat quietly after that, his words hanging in the air like the steady hum of the wind. His eyes flickered between them, waiting, watching. But no one made him wait long.

Katara reached for his hand first, her grip warm and firm. She leaned in close, eyes soft and clear as she gazed at him.

"You're never going to have to do it alone, Aang," she said quietly, her thumb brushing over the back of his hand. "We've got you. Just like you've got us."

Rina leaned forward, resting her arms on her knees, a grin tugging at her lips. "Yeah, I didn't sign up for this just to sit on the sidelines. You think I'm gonna let you have all the fun?" She tilted her head, her grin growing wider. "Not a chance, Airboy."

Aang's shoulders shook with a soft laugh.

Sokka stretched his arms over his head, groaning dramatically. "Ugh, you're really out here giving heartwarming speeches before we've even hit the halfway mark." He dropped his arms and glanced at Aang, his smile small but genuine. "But for real, you've always had us, Aang. Always. Even when you're being a stubborn pain in the butt." He shrugged, his eyes flicking to Katara briefly before returning to Aang. "Guess we're all kinda like that, huh?"

"Wonder where you get it from," Katara muttered, shooting him a look.

Aang sat there for a moment, his head bowed as he took it all in. He glanced at each of them, his eyes shining with something soft and unspoken. Then, slowly, he smiled. Not a small smile. Not a polite one. A real, bright, honest smile that reached his eyes and crinkled the corners of his face.

"Thanks," he said softly, his voice barely above a breath. "Thank you."

The rest of the journey passed like a dream. The sun shifted overhead, and they flew through clear skies with nothing but open air and each other. Sokka and Rina took turns telling animated stories, their hands flying through the air as they acted out the most ridiculous parts.

For the first time in a long while, Aang joined them.

He laughed. Really laughed. Not the small, polite laughs he'd been giving for weeks. Not the quiet chuckles meant to mask the pain. This was loud, belly-deep laughter that echoed in the open sky. He even jumped in on the storytelling, recounting tales of his wild adventures with Bumi. His voice grew animated, his hands moving just as wildly as Sokka's as he reenacted one of Bumi's wild pranks.

There were moments of rest, too. Times when the sun grew hot, and the weight of it all finally settled into their bones. Sokka and Rina curled up together, Rina's head resting on Sokka's shoulder as she dozed. Katara laid herself against Aang, her head on his chest as his arms wrapped around her.

Even then, Aang didn't stop moving. His hands were busy, his fingers weaving needle and thread with surprising precision. Each movement was practiced, deliberate, as he sewed together a red and black fabric in his lap. He had already finished the outfits for Katara and Sokka, and now he was working on Rina's. The stitchwork was clean, precise, and it was clear that this wasn't something he had just picked up.

"You never told me you were good at this," Katara muttered, her eyes half-lidded with sleep as she glanced up at him. "When did you learn to sew like that?"

Aang glanced down at her, his fingers still moving with practiced ease. His grin was soft, his eyes distant, like he was remembering something warm.

"Gyatso taught me," he said quietly. His hands didn't stop moving. "Said that patience was one of the hardest lessons for an Airbender. So… sewing helped."

Katara hummed in response, her eyes drifting closed as her head sank further against his chest. She didn't say anything else, and Aang didn't either. The soft pull of needle and thread was the only sound for a long while.

Eventually, his fingers slowed. The fabric in his lap lay half-finished, the needle still looped through it. He glanced down at Katara, her breath soft and steady against him. His eyes softened, and for the first time in a long while, he leaned back, resting his head against the saddle.

He didn't have to be strong every second. Not when they were here.

He let his eyes drift closed, his arms still holding Katara close. Peace, for once, felt real.

And when Whale Tail Island finally came into view, their resolve had never been stronger.

The bustling noise of Whale Tail Island's port hit them long before their feet touched the ground. Shouts of merchants echoed across the docks, the crash of waves beating against wooden planks, and the steady thud of crates being dropped onto ships filled the air. The sharp tang of saltwater mixed with the savory scent of sizzling fish from nearby food stalls. It was chaos, but it was alive in a way that was almost comforting. Whale Tail Island was thriving.

"Looks like business is booming," Katara said, shielding her eyes from the sun as she scanned the crowded docks. Her gaze lingered on the sheer number of ships lined up, each one busier than the next.

"No kidding," Sokka said, grinning as he eyed a ship unloading barrels of spices. "Feels like half the Southern Ocean showed up to do their holiday shopping."

"Or trading," Rina added, her eyes following a pair of workers carrying crates marked with Fire Nation insignias. "This place is packed."

"Busy means profit," Aang said, hopping off Appa with ease. His gaze swept over the crowd, eyes sharp but relaxed. "I bet Taro and Katsu have their hands full with all this traffic."

They didn't have to wait long to find out.

"Hey! No way! If it isn't our favorite little world-savers!" boomed a voice so loud that half the dock turned to look. Taro's voice could have been mistaken for thunder if it wasn't laced with his unmistakable glee. The big man stomped toward them, his broad frame pushing past dockworkers and merchants like a ship cutting through rough waves. His grin stretched wide as ever, his arms held out like he was ready to sweep them all into a hug.

Behind him, Katsu followed at a slower, calmer pace. He didn't shout, didn't wave, but his sharp eyes and sly grin said it all. They were expected.

"I knew you'd be back!" Taro barked as he stopped in front of them, throwing his arms wide. "World can't stay away from Taro and Katsu for long. Especially when you owe us."

"We owe you?" Sokka crossed his arms, his eyes narrowing with playful suspicion. "Pretty sure that debt was paid last time when we got your little business up and running."

Taro barked out a laugh and threw an arm around Sokka's shoulders, shaking him like a ragdoll. "Wrong, boy! The deal was immortality. I remember it clear as day."

"You're lying," Sokka grunted as he squirmed free. "That's not how deals work."

"It is if you're bad at making deals," Katsu quipped, his grin barely visible beneath his calm expression.

Sokka pointed at him, eyes narrowing further. "I see you, quiet one. Don't think I forgot how you swindled me last time."

Katsu raised his hands in mock surrender. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Sure you don't," Sokka muttered, then straightened his back. "Alright, enough playing around. We're here on serious business." He dusted himself off and cracked his neck like he was stepping into a ring. "We've got a job offer for you."

"Oh, a job offer," Taro said, folding his arms as his grin grew even wider. "Go on, Master Negotiator. Let's hear it."

Sokka's eyes sharpened. He took a slow step forward, head held high, shoulders back. Every ounce of him shifted into "Master Negotiator" mode — calm, precise, and undeniably smug.

"Here's the deal," he began, his voice carrying the same weight as a merchant selling rare treasures. "We need safe, discreet passage to the Fire Nation. Fast, quiet, and with no questions asked." He took a deliberate pause, glancing from Taro to Katsu. "In exchange, you'll get access to untapped trading opportunities in Fire Nation ports before anyone else. Early access means first pick. First pick means big profits."

Taro rubbed his beard, pretending to think it over. "Fire Nation, huh? Risky business."

"Risky business," Katsu echoed, nodding slowly. His sharp eyes stayed locked on Sokka. "Risk comes with a price."

Sokka nodded like he'd expected this. "Alright. I hear you." He started pacing in front of them, hands clasped behind his back like he was teaching a class. "How about I throw in a little something extra. The Southern Water Tribe has an unguarded shipment of fine pelts headed south from Chameleon Bay. No competition. That sound like enough to sweeten the deal?"

"Tempting," Katsu admitted, tilting his head in thought. "But not tempting enough."

"Not enough?" Sokka's arms dropped to his sides, his face twisting with disbelief. "That's a goldmine I'm handing you."

"Goldmine, sure," Taro said, cracking his knuckles. "But it don't mean much if we get caught in Fire Nation waters. Gonna need more than that, negotiator."

Sokka's eyes darted back and forth between them, his brow furrowing deeper by the second. He opened his mouth, about to argue, when Taro raised a hand to stop him.

"Throw in your boomerang," Taro said with a wicked grin.

Sokka froze. He blinked once. Twice. Then his voice came out sharp and firm. "No."

"Not even for a free ride to the Fire Nation?" Taro's eyes twinkled with mischief. "C'mon, Sokka, you'd get a whole nation of adventure in return."

"Not. Happening," Sokka repeated, his glare cutting like a blade. "Pick something else."

Taro's grin widened as he let out a loud, booming laugh that echoed across the docks. He slapped Katsu's shoulder, and even the quiet twin started chuckling.

"Oh, he's good," Taro said, wiping at his eyes like he'd just heard the best joke of his life. "Alright, alright. No more messin' with you." He gave Sokka a hearty pat on the back that nearly knocked him forward. "We'll do it."

Sokka blinked. "Wait... you'll do it?"

"Of course we'll do it," Taro said, still grinning. "We were always gonna do it. We just like watchin' you sweat."

Sokka groaned, his hands dragging down his face. "I hate both of you."

"You love us," Katsu corrected, his smirk barely visible, but the pride in his voice was unmistakable. "And for the record, we were already heading toward the Fire Nation. Got a shipment to make."

"Unbelievable," Rina muttered, shaking her head as she looked at Aang. "They played him like a drum."

Aang shrugged, his grin soft but present. "At least we got a ride."

Katsu stepped forward, his eyes meeting Aang's. "Just one thing, Avatar. We're only taking one ship this time. Small crew, light load. Ain't room for an army."

Aang didn't hesitate. His face softened, but his eyes stayed steady. "No army," he said, nodding toward his friends. "Just us."

"Just you four?" Katsu tilted his head, his gaze sharp as ever.

Aang's voice didn't waver. "That's all we need."

Silence hung in the air for a moment before Katsu held out his hand. Aang clasped it firmly, sealing the deal.

"Alright then," Katsu said, his grin small but genuine. "Deal."

Taro slapped his brother on the back, nearly knocking him forward. "Deal's done! Let's get you all aboard, world-savers. Next stop…" He spun toward the sea, throwing his arms out like he was announcing a grand show. "The Fire Nation!"

There was a pause. No jokes this time. No teasing grins or clever remarks. Just quiet understanding.

Katara's eyes found Aang's, her gaze steady, unwavering. Aang held her gaze for a moment, then nodded. No words needed. They'd all made this choice long before stepping on this dock.

Sokka rolled his shoulders, exhaling slowly before cracking a grin. "Well," he muttered, hands on his hips. "Let's go change the world."

The four of them followed the brothers onto the ship, their steps slow but deliberate. Every footfall heavier than the last, the weight of their mission settling on their backs. But none of them stopped. None of them turned away.

They were going to the Fire Nation.

And this time, there was no turning back.

---

The steady creak of wood and the distant crash of waves filled the air as the ship rocked gently on the open sea. Gulls circled above, their calls sharp and distant, blending with the clatter of footsteps from the crew moving along the deck. The salty breeze was constant, carrying with it the faint tang of seaweed and sun-warmed wood.

Below deck, however, things were far less peaceful.

"Come on, buddy," Aang coaxed, crouching in front of Appa with his hands raised, palms open and gentle. "It's not like last time. I promise."

Appa snorted, his massive head tilted to the side as he eyed the cramped cargo hold like it was a cage ready to spring shut. His large brown eyes were filled with suspicion, and his tail gave a slow, unhappy flick against the side of the ship, causing the wood to groan.

Katara knelt beside Aang, her hand resting on his shoulder. "He remembers, Aang," she said softly. "He was down here for weeks the last time. I don't blame him for being nervous."

Aang nodded, glancing back at Appa with a frown. "I know, buddy. I know it was rough." He moved a little closer, his voice gentle but firm. "But it's different this time. We're not bringing an army. It's just us. And I'll be right here with you."

Appa's ears twitched at that, his gaze flicking from Aang to Katara, then back to Aang. He let out a long, grumbling groan, his massive shoulders sagging just a bit. Slowly, he trudged forward, his heavy footsteps rattling the planks beneath them.

"There you go," Aang said, his face brightening with a smile. "I'll stay right here. Promise."

Appa let out a low, tired rumble as he settled into the hold, his body curling up against the wall. The space was just big enough for him to fit, though his horns bumped the ceiling, and he gave it a warning snort. Aang stepped in beside him, leaning against the sky bison's broad side as he ran a hand through the thick, warm fur.

Katara followed, sitting next to Aang and leaning her head on his shoulder. She let out a soft sigh, her arms wrapping lightly around his arm. Her other hand found a patch of Appa's fur and began to gently stroke it in slow, steady motions.

"He'll be alright," she murmured. "As long as you're here with him."

"Yeah," Aang said quietly, his gaze fixed on Appa's face. His fingers moved slowly through the fur, his eyes thoughtful. "I think we both need this."

They sat like that for a while, the distant creaking of the ship rocking them back and forth in rhythm with the sea. The warmth of Appa's body made the cool air below deck feel less harsh, and for a moment, it felt like they were in a small, safe world of their own.

Katara glanced up at him after a while. "So… Kuzon," she said softly, turning her head so her cheek pressed against his shoulder. "You talked about visiting him when we got to the Fire Nation. I don't think you've ever told me much about him."

Aang blinked, surprised by the shift in conversation, but his face quickly softened. "Kuzon…" he echoed, his lips curling into a small smile. "He's only a year older than me, but he always acted like he was so much older. Every time I visited him, it felt like we were on some kind of wild adventure."

"Wild adventures, huh?" Katara glanced at him, her brows raised with curiosity. "Like what?"

Aang's eyes brightened with the glow of old memories. "There was this one time — I think I was ten — and Kuzon convinced me to climb four mountains with him. He said there was a dragon nesting at the top of the last one, and he had to see it." He shook his head, letting out a small laugh. "I didn't believe him at first, but we climbed anyway. It was tough. I mean, even for an airbender, it was rough."

Katara watched him closely, her smile growing as she listened. "But you did it."

"Yeah, we did." Aang glanced down at his hands, his fingers still brushing through Appa's fur. "And there was a dragon. A real, living dragon. It had this nest with a single egg in it — bright red, like it was glowing from the inside." He glanced at her, his eyes warm with the excitement of the memory. "We were just about to leave when these dragon poachers showed up."

"Poachers?" Katara leaned forward, her brows knitting together. "What happened?"

Aang's grin turned a little sharper, a little more proud. "We fought them off. Together. Kuzon used his firebending to make it look like the dragon was attacking, and I used airbending to make the flames bigger. We got them to run off, and we stayed up there for hours making sure no one else showed up."

Katara's eyes shone with admiration. "Sounds like Kuzon's pretty brave."

"Yeah, he is," Aang said softly. His gaze lingered on the floor, and his smile faded just a little. "He's brave. Kind. He's never cared about where people came from or what nation they were from. We'd sneak into Fire Nation festivals and go dancing with total strangers." He chuckled. "I'd always trip over my own feet, but Kuzon would just laugh and pull me back up."

Katara's smile faltered slightly, her eyes dipping toward the floor. She hesitated, her fingers slowing in Appa's fur. "Do you think…" She stopped, biting her lip for a second before looking at him. "Do you think he'll still feel that way now that the war's started? He might not see things the same way anymore."

Her words hung in the air, like the weight of them could tip everything over. Aang's hand stopped moving. His gaze slowly shifted down, his face drawn in quiet thought.

"I've thought about that," he admitted after a long pause. His voice was low, almost a whisper. "I've thought about it a lot." He swallowed, his eyes locked on the floor as if searching for something. "But the Kuzon I know… he wouldn't be okay with any of this. He wouldn't stand by while his people did this to the world." His gaze lifted to meet hers, his eyes steady but filled with quiet hope. "I have to believe he's still that person."

Katara leaned her head against him, pulling him into a tighter embrace. "Whatever happens," she said firmly, her voice as solid as stone, "I'll be by your side. Every step of the way."

Aang didn't answer at first. He just leaned into her, his head resting lightly against hers. His fingers pressed gently into the soft fur of Appa's back.

"Thanks, Katara," he finally said. His voice was quiet, but it didn't waver. "That means a lot."

Above deck, the world was much louder. The rhythmic crash of waves against the ship's hull mixed with the clatter of boots on wood, seagulls crying overhead, and, most notably, the booming voice of Taro.

"Ha! You call that a throw?" Taro bellowed as he snatched a bag of rice from the air with one hand, holding it high like a trophy. His grin was wide, his voice even louder. "My grandmother throws better than that, and she's been blind in one eye since she was forty!"

Sokka jabbed a finger at him, his face twisted in mock outrage. "Your grandmother must have arms like a platypus bear, then!" he shot back. He scooped up another bag of rice, narrowed his eyes like he was lining up the perfect shot, and hurled it with every ounce of strength he had. The bag flew in a lopsided arc, wobbling wildly before Taro caught it with a dramatic flourish, his laughter rolling like thunder.

"Nice form, Master Negotiator!" Taro jeered, cradling the bag against his hip. "If this Avatar thing doesn't work out, maybe you can join the circus as a juggler!"

"Better than being a glorified delivery boy," Sokka shot back, tossing him a grin.

While their exchange carried on, Rina moved with the precision of a predator stalking prey. Her eyes locked onto Katsu, who stood on the other side of the deck, arms folded as he quietly observed his brother's antics. The sun caught the sharp edges of his face, his expression calm and completely unaware of the trouble sneaking up behind him.

Rina's steps were slow and deliberate, her bare feet silent against the wood. In her hands, she held a metal bucket sloshing with cold seawater. Sokka noticed her immediately, his eyes lighting up with excitement as he quickly covered his mouth to stifle his laugh. He gave her a subtle thumbs-up from across the deck, grinning like she'd already won.

Rina's grin widened as she crept closer. Step by step, her eyes darted to Katsu's face, watching for any sign that he'd caught on. Nothing. He didn't so much as blink. She raised the bucket above her head, ready to strike, her grin splitting wide in anticipation.

At the last possible moment, Katsu turned his head, his gaze landing on her like he'd been waiting for it the whole time. His face was completely still, not a flicker of surprise or concern. "You missed," he said flatly, his tone as dry as desert sand.

Rina froze mid-strike, her eyes wide with disbelief. "What?" she blurted.

"You missed your chance," Katsu repeated, his gaze steady as he glanced at the water still sloshing in the bucket. His expression didn't shift, his face carved in stone. "That's how I see it."

For half a second, Rina just stood there, eyes darting between him and the bucket, her face twisted in confusion. Then, without a single word of warning, she tipped the bucket forward, dumping the entire load of freezing seawater over his head. It cascaded down his hair, drenched his clothes, and splattered all over his boots.

"I didn't miss," Rina said, grinning like she'd just won a war.

Water dripped steadily from Katsu's hair, his bangs plastered to his forehead. His soaked clothes clung to his frame, his eyes blinking slowly as if he were processing the event second by second. He sniffed, wiped a drop of water from his nose, and nodded once.

"Fair enough," he muttered, brushing water off his sleeves with calm, methodical swipes.

"Fair enough!" Taro howled with a wheezing laugh, so loud it could have echoed to shore. He doubled over, clutching his sides, barely able to breathe through his laughter. "She got you, Katsu! She got you! I've never seen you that slow!" He slapped his knee, tears forming at the corners of his eyes.

"Laugh it up, Taro," Katsu said, ringing out a handful of his soaked tunic. "This deck's getting scrubbed, and I'm thinking she just volunteered." He glanced at Rina, tilting his head with that same stone-faced stare. "You too, Master Negotiator," he added, pointing at Sokka.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Sokka shot up from where he'd been leaning on the mast, hands raised in surrender. "How did I get roped into this? I didn't even do anything!"

Katsu raised an eyebrow. "You gave her a thumbs-up."

Sokka's jaw dropped. "Since when is encouragement a punishable offense?"

"Since you encouraged this," Katsu said, flicking water off his hand toward Sokka's face. It didn't reach him, but Sokka ducked anyway, hands still raised.

"Totally worth it," Rina said, crossing her arms with a triumphant grin. Her eyes flicked over to Sokka. "You're a casualty, buddy. Accept it with grace."

"Grace, huh?" Sokka crossed his arms, lips pursed in mock frustration. "I'll have you know I was born with grace. I just choose not to use it most of the time."

"Sure you were," Taro snorted, wiping tears from his eyes. "And I was born with patience."

"You definitely weren't," Katsu said, deadpan as always, which only sent Taro into another fit of laughter.

Sokka leaned back against the mast with a huff, hands tucked behind his head. "We'll see if it's still worth it when you're swabbing decks for the next hour," he said with a sly grin.

Rina's grin didn't waver. "Still worth it." She tapped the side of her head. "Memories last forever, Sokka. A clean deck doesn't."

Her words sent Taro into a fresh round of laughter, his booming voice carrying over the open sea. Even Katsu allowed himself the faintest twitch of a smile before shaking his head and turning back toward the helm.

The sun hung high above them, its warmth cutting through the crisp sea breeze. The ship rocked steadily with the current, sails full as they pushed forward across endless blue. Their laughter echoed through the air, loud and wild, riding the wind as the ship pressed on toward the unknown.

---

The following week passed in a gentle, comforting rhythm. Below deck, the dim glow of lanterns cast soft orange light on the cramped but cozy quarters where Aang, Katara, and Appa all stayed together. The space wasn't much to look at — wooden walls, low ceilings, and not much room to move around, especially with a fully grown sky bison taking up most of the area. But none of that really mattered.

Aang had been insistent that he stay by Appa's side this time. He still remembered how long Appa had been trapped in one of these ships during the journey from Chin Village to Gaipan Village, and he refused to let him feel that isolation again. So, with some creative thinking, Aang and Katara had arranged their sleeping space right beside him. Their bedrolls were pressed together along Appa's flank, and at night, they would both use Appa's warm, soft fur as a pillow.

Katara would curl into Aang, her head resting on his chest, the steady beat of his heart lulling her into sleep. With her arms wrapped around him, she had never felt safer. It didn't matter that the room was cramped, or that the ship's movements sometimes creaked and groaned in the night. Here, in Aang's embrace, everything was calm. Everything was still.

Sokka and Rina had their own room just down the hall, as there wasn't enough space for all of them to squeeze in with Appa. But that didn't stop them from dropping in throughout the day. The four of them would gather around, sprawled out on blankets and cushions, their laughter filling the small space with life. It had become a kind of tradition.

On most afternoons, Katara would be leaning into Aang's side, her arms wrapped around him as she rested her head on his shoulder. Rina would sit cross-legged with her back against the wall, while Sokka flopped onto his stomach, arms dangling off the edge of the bedrolls like he was half-asleep. But all eyes were usually on Aang.

He had been hard at work for days, needle and thread in hand as he sewed their Fire Nation disguises. His focus was razor-sharp, his eyes squinting as he weaved every precise stitch. His hands moved with such fluid grace that it looked more like bending than sewing. It was the kind of work that required patience and precision, and yet, somehow, Aang made it look natural. Every so often, his tongue would poke out from the corner of his mouth as he tugged a seam into place, earning quiet snickers from Katara and Rina.

"How are you this good at sewing?" Sokka asked one afternoon, his head propped on his arms. "Like, I get bending, I get fighting, but this?" He gestured wildly at the nearly finished outfit in Aang's lap. "This is witchcraft."

Aang grinned, not even looking up from his work. "Gyatso taught me. Said if I was ever stranded without robes, I'd have to know how to make new ones." He tugged the thread taut, securing the last stitch. "Didn't think I'd be sewing Fire Nation clothes, though."

"You're telling me," Rina said, shaking her head with a laugh. "I thought you were just some airbending prodigy, but nooo, apparently you're also a tailor, an artist, and apparently from what I've heard from Katara — a dragon protector." She counted on her fingers as she spoke, grinning at him. "Seriously, Aang, save some talent for the rest of us."

Katara leaned closer to him, her voice soft but proud. "He's full of surprises," she said, brushing her fingers against his cheek. Aang's smile grew wider, his hands pausing for a moment as he leaned into her touch.

By the end of the week, all four outfits were finally complete. Aang laid them out across the bed, one by one.

"Alright," he said, standing up and brushing his hands together. "Moment of truth. Try them on!"

Sokka was the first to grab his. "If this doesn't fit perfectly, I'm docking your pay, Tailor Aang," he said, wagging a finger at him.

"Pretty sure I'm working for free, Sokka," Aang replied, grinning.

"Exactly! Terrible business model," Sokka quipped as he headed for the hall.

Rina grabbed hers next, turning it in her hands to admire the craftsmanship. The fabric was smooth and deep maroon, a near mirror of Katara's but with a slightly darker hue. Her eyes flicked to Aang, her smile warm. "This is beautiful," she said softly. "Thanks, Aang."

Katara stood up and held her outfit against her, her fingers trailing over the fabric. It was perfect. A crimson tunic layered with a sleeveless, high-collared vest, complete with dark red pants and a waist sash. Her gaze lifted to Aang, and her eyes shimmered with quiet pride. "You really did all this by hand," she murmured, her voice filled with awe.

"Every thread," Aang replied, his smile small but genuine.

They each retreated to their separate corners of the room to change. Moments later, they emerged, one by one.

Sokka came out first, grinning as he smoothed down the front of his tunic. "Okay, not gonna lie — I look good. Look at this guy," he said, flexing his arms like he was the champion of some arena. He glanced toward Rina, eyebrows raised expectantly. "Well? Do I look as handsome as I feel?"

Rina tilted her head, her eyes scanning him like she was appraising art. Then she smiled. "Handsome is an understatement," she said, stepping forward to tug the sash at his waist. She pulled him down just enough to press a kiss to his cheek. "You look striking."

Sokka blinked, his cheeks warming instantly. He rubbed the back of his neck, grinning like an idiot. "Yeah, well, I do have my moments."

Rina laughed, tucking herself into his side.

Katara stepped forward next, and for a moment, no one said a word. Her outfit fit like it had been made for her — because it had. The deep red fabric framed her form with precision, sharp and elegant. Her high collar and flowing sash gave her the air of someone important, someone fierce. She lifted her arms to turn in a slow circle, inspecting herself. When her eyes landed on Aang, she blinked in surprise.

His mouth was slightly open, his eyes wide with awe. He didn't even blink.

Katara tilted her head, eyes narrowing in curiosity. "What?" she asked, a teasing smile curling on her lips.

"You're… beautiful," Aang said, his voice quiet but full of sincerity. His gaze never wavered, as if he was seeing her for the first time all over again. "I mean, you're always beautiful, but this…" His eyes trailed over her outfit. "You're incredible, Katara."

Her heart skipped, warmth spreading through her chest. She stepped toward him, her eyes soft but focused. "And you," she said, pressing a hand gently to his chest, her smile never wavering, "are the most handsome person I've ever met." She leaned in and kissed him, her eyes sliding shut as she let herself fall into the moment. Her arms looped around his neck, holding him close for just a little longer than usual.

When they pulled back, Aang's face was flushed pink, but he was grinning like it didn't matter at all.

"Alright, lovebirds," Sokka groaned, waving a hand. "Some of us are still in the room."

"You're just mad because you're not getting more compliments," Rina teased, jabbing him in the side.

Sokka raised a brow, his grin sly. "If I'm not getting compliments, then maybe I'll just have to earn one." He pulled Rina in by the waist, spinning her once before leaning down to kiss her with just as much confidence as he had with his jokes.

She blinked in surprise, but when her eyes shut, she leaned into him like it was second nature. Their kiss lingered longer than either of them expected, and when they finally pulled away, Rina's face was as red as her outfit.

"...Okay," Rina muttered, glancing away with a small grin. "You win."

"Obviously," Sokka said, grinning from ear to ear.

Their laughter echoed once more, carrying through the ship as they stood together, dressed like Fire Nation citizens but feeling more like a family than ever before.

---

The last day of their journey had arrived, and with it came a shift in the air. The lightheartedness that had defined much of their week at sea faded, giving way to a quiet, tense stillness. The distant cry of seabirds echoed in the open air, but none of them paid it any mind. The gentle rocking of the ship, once a source of playful jokes and jabs, now felt heavier. Every creak of the wood seemed sharper. Every footstep on the deck echoed louder than it had before.

They had passed through the Fire Nation barricade without issue. Katsu and Taro had handled it with ease, flashing trade permits and making it seem like they'd done it a thousand times before. No questions asked. No inspections. Not even a second glance from the guards.

But it was different now.

This was no longer the middle of the sea. This was Fire Nation territory. Their waters. Their land.

Aang leaned forward on the ship's railing, his gaze fixed on the distant silhouette of Sunset City. Jagged cliffs framed the port, and the tops of Fire Nation buildings jutted out just beyond the stone walls. Thin plumes of smoke spiraled from chimneys, twisting and swaying with the breeze. Ships moved in and out of the harbor like clockwork — efficient, controlled, practiced. Everything looked calm. Normal. Too normal.

Katara stepped up beside him, her arm brushing his before she folded her hands over the railing. Her fingers curled slowly, gripping the wood like she could feel the weight of the moment in her palms. "We're really here," she said, her voice quieter than usual. Her gaze shifted toward Aang, her brows drawn together in a mix of resolve and doubt. "No more talking about it. No more 'when we get there.' This is it."

Aang nodded slowly, his eyes still locked on the city ahead. "Yeah," he muttered, his grip tightening on the wood. "No turning back now." His voice was steady, but it carried a weight that hadn't been there before. He dropped his gaze for a moment, watching his fingers press into the railing, before looking up again. "We've spent so much time thinking about getting to the Fire Nation, but now that we're here..." He exhaled slowly through his nose. "It's just hitting me all at once."

Sokka approached next, his arms crossed as he leaned against the railing. His face, normally filled with wit and sarcasm, was unusually serious. His eyes scanned the cliffs, the port, and the sharp sails of the warships anchored in the distance. "Yeah, I'm feeling it too," he admitted, his voice lacking its usual humor. "I mean, it's one thing to talk about sneaking into the heart of enemy territory, but it's another thing to actually do it. No plan B, no fallback, just... this." He nodded toward the city ahead. "Once we're in, we're in."

He glanced over his shoulder as Rina joined them, flipping a small dagger in her hand before tucking it into her belt. She leaned on the other side of Sokka, folding her arms on the railing and tilting her head as she eyed the city. "We'll be fine," she said casually, not looking at him.

Sokka's eyes slid toward her, his brow lifting in mock disbelief. "Liar," he muttered. His lips twitched with the beginnings of a grin, but it didn't quite reach his eyes.

"Call me what you want," Rina replied, shrugging one shoulder as she continued to watch the distant harbor. Her gaze lingered on the black-and-red sails of a Fire Nation warship, eyes narrowing just slightly. "Doesn't matter where we are. The four of us can handle it. We've done it before." Her words were firm, but her eyes didn't leave that warship. Her fingers tapped idly against the railing, as though measuring its weight in her hands.

"Not like this," Katara said softly. She pushed herself off the railing, taking a small step back so she could look at them all at once. Her arms hung at her sides, loose but ready. "This isn't some raid or mission where we can retreat if things go wrong. This is the Fire Nation. Their land. Their people." Her gaze was steady, unwavering as she made sure each of them heard her. "If we're caught, there's no running away."

Silence followed. The only sound was the distant creak of the ship's hull and the rhythmic crash of waves against its sides. The four of them stood there, each one processing her words in their own way. No one argued. No one tried to soften the truth. They just stood there, letting it sink in.

Aang finally broke the silence. His fingers stopped tapping against the wood, and he turned, facing them fully. His face was calm, but his eyes were sharp — steady and unwavering. "Then we don't get caught," he said simply. His words were quiet but firm, like a stone dropped into still water.

They all turned toward him.

He straightened his back, rolling his shoulders like he was shedding the weight of doubt. His gaze shifted from one face to the next, pausing on each of them. "We've trained for this. We've prepared for this. We know what's at stake, and we know what we have to do." He looked at Rina. Then at Sokka. His eyes lingered on Katara, his expression softening for just a moment. "We stay together, we stay smart, and we stay careful. If we do that, we won't get caught."

Katara watched him for a long moment, her eyes searching his face as if she were looking for cracks in his resolve. But if she found any, she didn't say. Instead, she nodded slowly, lifting her chin. "You're right," she said, her voice firm. "We've come too far to start doubting ourselves now." She glanced between them all, her gaze strong and steady. "We've got each other. That's more than enough."

Sokka snorted, rubbing the back of his neck. "Alright, alright. Guess we're doing this, huh?" He shook his head, his grin small but real. "Okay. Fire Nation, get ready, 'cause Team Avatar's coming in hot."

Rina rolled her eyes, but a quiet snicker escaped her. "That was awful," she muttered, shaking her head.

"You're awful," Sokka shot back, pointing at her with mock offense. "I'm a genius, and you know it."

"Keep telling yourself that, mister," Rina replied with a grin that tugged at the corner of her mouth.

Even as their banter returned, the air didn't lose its weight. The four of them stayed by the railing, watching as Sunset City drew closer and closer. The port was alive with activity — dockworkers hauling crates, Fire Nation officials walking in pairs, and guards patrolling the perimeter. It was a city like any other, but it wasn't. This wasn't just any city.

This was the Fire Nation.

A subtle shift passed between them as the ship slowed, the sails lowering as Taro shouted orders to his crew. The familiar sound of ropes snapping into place and anchor chains clattering against the hull echoed in the distance. No one spoke. No one moved.

Rina leaned into Sokka, her shoulder pressing into his arm. Her head dipped slightly, resting just below his shoulder. He glanced at her out of the corner of his eye, and without a word, his arm slid around her, pulling her in closer.

Katara followed suit, stepping toward Aang. Her eyes lingered on his face for a moment before she leaned into him, her head resting lightly on his shoulder. Her breath was warm against his collar, steady but quiet. Aang hesitated for half a heartbeat, his eyes flicking toward her like he was afraid to move too fast. But then his arm wrapped around her, his hand resting on her upper arm, holding her close.

They didn't say anything.

None of them did.

They didn't need to.

No more talk of "when we get there."

No more talk of what could go wrong.

This was it. The city was right there, waiting for them. The final stretch of ocean was almost gone.

Sunset City was no longer a distant idea or a mark on a map. It was real. Tangible. Dangerous.

Their path forward was set. No turning back.

When the ship finally docked, the heavy thud of the hull meeting the port echoed through the air. Captain Taro and Katsu were already waiting for them by the gangplank, hands on their hips like proud caretakers seeing off their rowdy kids. The scent of saltwater mixed with the faint tang of smoke drifting from the city's chimneys. The distant hum of Sunset City's bustle was constant — shouts of dockworkers, the rhythmic clatter of crates being unloaded, and the sharp bark of Fire Nation soldiers giving orders.

"Welcome to Sunset City!" Taro boomed, throwing his arms wide like he was introducing them to royalty. "Home of overpriced fish, rude dockmasters, and now my favorite passengers of all time!" He clapped Aang on the back with a heavy hand, sending him stumbling forward a step.

"Careful, you'll knock him overboard," Katsu muttered, his eyes flicking toward the water. His tone was as dry as ever, but his gaze lingered on Aang for a moment longer than usual, almost like he was genuinely concerned.

"Bah, he's a fish anyway," Taro said with a booming laugh, slapping his knee. "He'll just swim back up!"

Aang rubbed his shoulder, giving Taro a half-smile. "Not how airbending works," he muttered, adjusting his bag as he straightened up.

Sokka crossed his arms, tilting his head with a grin. "You two gonna miss us when we're gone, or are you just gonna cry in secret like you always do, Taro?"

Taro gasped, placing a hand over his heart as if Sokka had just stabbed him. "Miss you? I'll be shedding manly tears for weeks, you have no idea," he said, his voice thick with dramatic flair. He threw an arm around Katsu, pulling him in with mock seriousness. "Isn't that right, little brother?"

Katsu raised a single brow. "I am definitely not doing that."

"Don't listen to him," Taro stage-whispered, shielding his mouth with his hand like he was telling a great secret. "He's just shy."

That finally earned a chuckle from Rina, and Katara covered her mouth as she snorted behind her hand. Sokka's grin widened, and even Aang let out a quiet laugh, his shoulders relaxing just a bit.

"Alright, alright," Rina said, shifting her bag onto her shoulder. "We better go before Taro starts making up more stories about us."

"Too late!" Taro declared, arms thrown wide like he was addressing a grand audience. "By the time you're famous, I'll be telling people I trained you all myself!"

Sokka rolled his eyes as he hoisted his pack higher onto his back. "Take care, you two. Don't sink the ship without us."

"No promises!" Taro bellowed, throwing his head back in laughter.

Katara took a step forward, her eyes softer now, more sincere. She glanced from Taro to Katsu, her gaze lingering just a second longer than usual. "Thanks for everything," she said quietly, her voice carrying a warmth that wasn't there before. "Really. We wouldn't have made it here without you."

Taro's grin shifted into something gentler, his usual boisterous energy calming. "Don't go making me all sentimental, girl," he said, his voice gruffer but not unkind. "Just stay alive, yeah?"

Katara nodded. "Yeah," she said softly, her smile faint but real. "We will."

They turned toward the plank, stepping off the ship one by one. The wood thudded beneath their feet, each step feeling heavier than the last. Their boots met solid ground, and the moment they did, everything changed.

For the first time, they were on Fire Nation soil.

Aang glanced over his shoulder one last time. Taro stood at the edge of the ship, waving like an overzealous uncle sending his family off on a wild adventure. Katsu lifted a single hand, his version of a farewell. Aang waved back, his heart tight with an unspoken mix of gratitude and resolve. He turned away, his eyes landing on the busy port of Sunset City.

The port bustled with people, the pace of life faster than what any of them were used to. Dockworkers hefted crates onto their backs, shouting to one another. Fire Nation soldiers marched in clean, precise formations, their red and black armor glinting in the sun. Merchants called out their prices from behind stalls filled with fresh fruit, smoked fish, and roasted nuts. The air was thick with the smell of salt and coal smoke. It wasn't like the cities in the Earth Kingdom. Here, there was a sense of control, of watchfulness. Eyes followed the movements of soldiers, and conversations stopped the moment a guard walked too close.

No one paid attention to the four strangers stepping off the ship. No one even glanced at them. But that only made it feel more dangerous.

"Alright," Sokka muttered, glancing left and right as he pulled his pack tighter. "First step complete. We're in."

"Now we just need to stay that way," Rina added, her eyes flicking between the guards and dockworkers as she scanned every passerby like they were all potential threats.

Katara's gaze wasn't on the people. It was on the towering city walls just ahead. The stone battlements loomed over the city, their shadows long and sharp beneath the sun's glow. Her jaw tensed. "We need to find somewhere to hide Appa," she said, already thinking two steps ahead. "If anyone sees him, it's over."

"Forest," Aang said, already scanning the treeline beyond the city walls. His eyes locked on a patch of woods just beyond the port. It wasn't large, but it was dense enough to keep Appa hidden from sight. "Over there."

"Perfect," Katara said. "Let's go."

They kept their heads down as they moved through the port, keeping close to each other but not too close. They wove through the crowd like shadows, quiet and unnoticed. Sokka kept his eyes on the soldiers, making note of how often they patrolled the area. Rina kept a hand near her belt, fingers brushing the hilt of her dagger every so often.

Aang glanced up at the sky, his gaze searching for any sign of Fire Nation ships overhead. It was clear for now, but the knowledge that their enemies could be watching at any moment sat heavy on his chest. Appa let out a low, quiet grunt behind him, and Aang glanced over his shoulder to see the sky bison trudging behind them, his large frame somehow quieter than it should have been. Aang reached back, giving him a gentle pat on his side.

"It's okay, buddy," he whispered. "We'll get you somewhere safe."

They slipped past the city walls through a small side path, staying out of sight. The moment they reached the forest's edge, Aang's shoulders finally eased. The air smelled fresh here — damp earth, pine, and the faint sweetness of fallen leaves. The shift in atmosphere was immediate. No shouting dockworkers. No soldiers marching. Just quiet. Safe.

"Alright," Katara said, glancing up at the treetops. "This'll work." She looked to Aang. "Can you get Appa settled?"

"On it," Aang said. He guided Appa toward a thicket of dense brush. With a few steadying pats, he coaxed the sky bison to lie down in the shade of the trees. Appa let out a deep, low groan as he settled, resting his head on his paws. Aang crouched next to him, brushing his fur with his hand. "You're safe now, boy. We'll be back soon."

Sokka walked over, stretching his arms over his head with a loud yawn. "Well, this is it, huh?" He glanced at the group, eyes flicking between them. "No more boats, no more Taro's awful fish stew, and definitely no more Katsu silently judging me." He smirked, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Back to good old land."

"Back to Fire Nation territory," Rina reminded him, shooting him a look.

"Yeah, yeah, I know," he sighed, dropping his arms. His grin faded as he glanced deeper into the woods. "Guess this is the part where we figure out how not to get caught."

"Not just figure it out," Katara said, stepping next to him, her eyes fierce and determined. "Do it."

They all turned to face the forest together, shadows from the trees playing across their faces. There was no more turning back. No more talking about 'when we get there.'

They were here.

It was time to face the unknown.