Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It’s a full moon tonight.

That’s the only thought Zuko’s mind could produce as he sank further and further beneath the inky depths. The left side of his face continued to burn, still all too fresh and tender. His limbs were cold and heavy as his lungs fill with saltwater. He kept his gaze upward, watching the full silver moon distort from the screen of water above him.

A dark shadow slowly encroached him, blocking out the faint moonlight.

Zuko closed his eyes.

~*~

He woke up coughing and spewing saltwater. Zuko gasped, greedily sucking air for his burning lungs. Slowly he regained his senses and looked around. He was inside a dark cave with the ocean water lapping just below the slab of rock he was resting on.

How did he get here? The last thing he remembered was sneaking onboard a ship after that disastrous Agni Kai against his father. Zuko shivered, flashing back to Ozai’s sadistic grin as he let the serious Firelord façade slip before burning him.

Zuko squeezed his eyes shut and focused on his breathing. He had to calm down and figure out where he was.

He lit a small fire in his palm.

The light illuminated the cavern, allowing him to catch a glimpse of something large quietly slipping into the water.

“Hello? Who’s there?” he called out hoarsely.

A figure rose out of the water slightly. Zuko moved his hand closer to get a closer look. He saw a set of large blue eyes reflecting his flame. Zuko’s breath hitched.

It couldn’t be.

“A mermaid…” He whispered.

Zuko’s heard several legends of the mythical creature. Huge, magical, half human half fish beings that dwell where no anchor ever rested. It is said that they controlled the ocean itself.

She continued to study him, eyes transfixed on the flame in his palm.

“D-Did you save me?”

Nothing.

“My name is Zuko. What do they call you?”

More silence.

“Can you understand me?”

Still nothing.

Zuko’s flame started to dim. He decided to try something. He extinguished his flame, letting the darkness consume them, before relighting it moments later. The mermaid loomed over him with her dark hair falling like curtains around her face and covering all his sides. He saw her face clearly, deep blue patterns decorated her rich sepia skin, making her cerulean eyes stand out even more.

He didn’t know how long they were locked in this trance, unable to tear their eyes away from each other, until she finally spoke.

“You carry a piece of the sun in your hand.” She leaned closer revealing many rows of sharp teeth. “And in your eyes. It’s beautiful.”

Zuko was speechless.

The flame grew dimmer and dimmer as energy leaked out him. The mermaid frown, noticing his shaking hands.

“Can you not hold the sun for long?”

“I… I’m tired.”

The mermaid’s expression softened.

She swirled the ocean water in her hand, causing it to levitate and dance around her webbed fingers until it began to glow. She laid a finger over Zuko’s wound. He was too stun to react or even flinch. The water soothed his burning ache and caused him to lose consciousness almost instantly.

“Rest, Golden Eyes. I will watch over you.”

~*~

Zuko’s eyes fluttered open as a sunlight poured into the cavern. He yawned and sat up, feeling strangely refreshed.

Was it all a dream?

It had to be. He probably just swam to the cavern then passed out from exhaustion. There’s no way any of that ever happened.

Zuko hesitantly touched his wound to be sure. Except it wasn’t a wound anymore. Rough skin replaced the tender oozing flesh instead.

That meant…

Zuko leaned over and stuck his head in the water. He only saw rocks and sand below. He pulled back and wiped his face clean with his sleeve. Zuko could barely contain himself.

He saw a mermaid!

And she healed him!

Mermaid encounters were rarer than spirit encounters. This was incredible! He had to tell Uncle!

Oh…

Right.

Zuko’s mood plummeted when he remembered he couldn’t return home. Ever. Maybe it would have been better if the mermaid let him drown. Zuko looked towards the cavern’s opening, watching the ocean calmly bob up and down with the breeze. A starch difference from last night. Whatever the reason his life was spared, Zuko decided not to spend the rest of it moping in a hole. He was given a second chance at life and he was going to make the most of it.

Lovely fanart by @mtjo on Tumblr

Chapter Text

Zuko leaned against the railing of The Painted Lady and watched the moonlight reflect the ocean water. He thought about how much his life changed in just a month.

After leaving the cavern, he ran into pirates and convinced them to let him join the crew since they were low on deckhands. By convince, Zuko blatantly lied about his identity and sea skills. But he already knew how to read stars and he was a fast learner. It also helped that Yue, a runaway bride who joined the crew earlier, took pity on Zuko and secretly showed him the ropes.

He breathed in the salty air as his mind drifted back to that faithful night. Zuko wondered if he’d ever see the mermaid again. She said she would watch over him.

Movement caught his eyes. A massive tail, longer the ship itself, glided just beneath the surface before disappearing into the deep. Heart racing, Zuko leaned further over the railing and lit a fire in his palm.

The mermaid slowly emerged her head above the waves. Her long hair fanned out around her and large cerulean blue eyes sparkled with wonder.

Zuko briefly wondered if she was as enchanted with him as he was with her.

“Hello.” Zuko whispered.

“Golden Eyes, is your sun stronger now?”

“Yes, thanks to you.”

The mermaid gave him a wide toothy grin, tugging a smile from Zuko.

“Good.”

The mermaid began to leave before Zuko called out to her.

“Wait! What is your name? I don’t want to keep calling you mermaid.”

“If I told you, your spirit would be trapped in the deepest ocean trench forever.”

Zuko’s eyes widen. “R-Really?”

“No.”

Zuko let out a breath of relief. “Very funny.”

She covered her mouth and laughed. Humans were so easily spooked.

“I am called Katara.”

“Katara…”

She smiled warmly at him causing Zuko’s stomach to do flips.

“I have to go now. Look for me when the moon is fullest, Golden Eyes.”

“I will.”

With that, she disappeared under the inky waves without a trace.

~*~

Katara returned each full moon. No matter where the ship was, she always found it. Sometimes Zuko stayed onboard and talked to her but usually he’d joined her in the water. They would swim around for hours, whispering under the night sky or simply enjoying each other’s company.

Zuko had never been more content in his life.

“You're smiling weird again." Yue said one day while scrubbing pots. “Is it a girl?”

“What?” Zuko almost dropped the crates he was carrying. He didn't realize he was smiling.

“You sneak out every full moon for hours at a time, Lee. Stealing away to see your lover?”

“No.”

“You’re a horrible liar.”

“It’s not what you think Yue! Besides, you wouldn’t believed me if I told you.”

“I see. So, you’re skinny dipping.”

“YUE!!!”

Yue doubled down in laughter. It was so easy to fluster him.

“Calm down, I was just teasing.” She flicked some soap suds at him. “That’s what you get for being so secretive all the time.”

“Hmph.”

There was a sudden commotion above deck. The two looked at each other startled before racing upstairs. Multiple iron ships, flying rival pirate flags and armed with canons, surrounded them on all sides. The Painted Lady had already taken damage from a warning shot.

Zuko whipped out his swords, prepared to fight when attackers boarded ship.

Instead, the rival Captain demanded that the firebender was handed over or further damage would be done. The crew insisted they had no firebender onboard only to be met with more canon fire that completely destroyed the mask.

Zuko’s breath hitched.

The jig was up.

Yue grabbed his arm and shook her head. Zuko mouthed that he had too and yanked his arm free. He silently asked Yue to forgive him.

“Stop!” Zuko dropped his swords and walked forward with his hands in the air “I’m the firebender you’re looking for!”

He heard his crewmates gasps and felt their stares as the other pirates boarded the ship. They chained Zuko up then dragged him to the main ship.

The Captain smirked at him as he looked him up and down.

“Yep, that’s the one. Got the ugly scar to prove it.”

“What do you want bastard?!” Zuko spat.

“Isn’t it obvious?” he gave a gross smile, revealing several missing teeth. “But first, I have a couple of loose ends to burn.”

He nodded towards his men who opened fire on The Painted Lady.

Zuko screamed in horror as the ship was engulfed with flames. Consumed by rage and grief, he fought against the guards. He broke free from their hold and nearly attacked the Captain before something hard hit his head.

Zuko collapsed hard onto the deck.

The last thing he saw was deep black smoke ascending into the sky.

Chapter Text

Zuko groggily opened his eyes. He had a splitting headache and was sore all over. He tried to get up but swore when he found out he was chained to the wall.

Those bastards lied to him!

The Painted Lady.

His crewmates.

Yue.

All gone…

Zuko fought tears as he tried to melt through the chains only to discovered his bending was not working. He must have been drugged while unconscious. He yelled and demanded answers from his captors. Soon enough, he heard the door unlocking and someone walked in.

Zhao gave him a smug smirk.

“Well well, if it isn’t the prodigal son.”

“Zhao.” Zuko said through gritted teeth. “I should have known.”

“Admiral Zhao. I’ve been promoted.”

“What do you want, Zhao ?”

“Nothing more than to reunite a wayward son with his concerned father.”

Zuko scoffed. He’s seen the wanted posters in towns but foolishly thought he was safe at sea. Now so many have paid the price.

“Working with pirates? Didn’t think you’d sink that low.”

Zhao barked out a laugh.

“That’s rich coming from you.” He referred to Zuko’s ragged appearance from spending months at sea. “Besides, why waste my time and resources when I can simply hire some lowlifes to sniff out their own kind. I have more important missions complete. Your arrest is not the only thing the Firelord entrusted me with.”

Zuko snorted. “How many boots did you lick to land that?”

“Well, if you must know, the Avatar has returned.”

Zuko’s eyes widen. “What?! But they’ve been missing for 100 years!”

“Not anymore.” Zhao shook his head and laughed again. “You know, the Firelord was going to give you the task of capturing the Avatar in exchange of lifting your banishment. But of course, you fled like a coward before he could issue the decree.”

Zuko growled at him. If he had any strength left, he would have attacked Zhao on the spot.

“We should be arriving in the Fire Nation in a couple of weeks. Sleep well, Your Highness.” he jeered before slamming the door shut and leaving Zuko in the dark.

~*~

Zuko didn’t know how long he was locked in the cell. It could have been hours or days. He had no way of telling. Zuko silently grieved over his friends and crewmates that were slaughtered by the pirates. He had finally found a place where he belonged, only for it to be violently snatched away.

He was supposed to meet with Katara soon…

Zuko groaned and leaned his head against the wall.

Was this really it?

Going back to the Fire Nation was a death sentence.

He’d be lying if he said he’d had a good life. But it certainly had its moments. He supposed that’s what really matters.

Suddenly, the boat tilted sharply, almost capsizing before harshly jolting back to the other side. There was muffled screaming outside.

Were they sinking?!

The boat rocked violently again, as if they were caught in the middle of a powerful hurricane. Zuko was thrown back and forth with only the chains holding him up. As the boat tilted again, Zuko used gravity to his advantage and pulled with all his might. The bolts holding the chains to the wall gave in, sending Zuko crashing against the wall.

Summoning his remaining strength, he shakily made his way to the to the door before it was yanked open. A distraught Zhao stood before him, soaking wet and covered in bleeding wounds. He grabbed Zuko by the shirt and dragged him above deck, ignoring Zuko’s protests.

Outside was pure chaos. A fierce storm raged on, pelting wind and rain mercilessly against the iron ship. The few functioning canons left fired at something in the distance. Zuko squinted against the rain. A massive silhouette loomed in the horizon, surrounded by the remains of burning ships.

“HERE IS YOUR PREY, MONSTER!!!” Zhao bellowed. “NOW LEAVE ME BE!”

Before Zuko could react, Zhao lifted him up with one hand and threw him overboard.

He plunged into the freezing water, muffling the roaring noise of the storm above. The chains dragged Zuko deeper and deeper, preventing him from swimming back to the surface.

He was certain it was it this time until he saw a familiar blue tail glided under him.

Chapter Text

“Hold still.”

Katara snapped the chains off with her teeth, except for the wrist binders that were too close to Zuko’s skin. He thanked her as he moved the cuffs down and rubbed his sore wrists, relieved not be bogged down by chains anymore.

“How did you find me? I was locked in the cell of another ship.”

“It is not the ship I track, Golden Eyes.” She gently laid her finger over his scar like the night they first met. Zuko smiled. Katara never ceases to amaze him.

“Besides, the Silver Moon told me you were captured.”

Silver Moon?

Yue!

“She’s alive?! Where is she?”

“Safe on land.” Katara nodded towards the direction they were heading.

“Did you find anyone else my ship?”

Katara’s looked away. “She was alone in the sea. I’m sorry.”

Zuko deflated. They really were gone.

“Golden Eyes, why did those humans capture you?”

Zuko dropped his gaze. “My father paid them to take me back to him.”

“I do not understand…”

“My father did this to me,” Zuko pointed to his scar. “Because I talked out of turn. So, I fled the country. Now he wants me to come back and I don’t think it’s so he could apologize.”

As Zuko talked, he didn’t notice the sky growing darker and the waves picking up.

“Katara?”

“Where is he?” she asked dangerously low.

“What- “

“HOW DARE HE?! A FATHER SHOULD NEVER HARM HIS CHILD!!!”

The ocean roared alongside her furry. Zuko clutched her hair as a wave nearly knocked him off her shoulder. He’s never seen her so angry before.

“I’LL DROWN HIM ALONG WITH THOSE OTHER FOUL HUMANS!!! “

“Katara!”

She took a deep breath and the ocean slowly calmed, though there was still burning anger in her eyes.

“I apologize, Golden Eyes. But your father should have not done that. It’s cruel and wrong.”

Zuko knew she was right. But he couldn’t help but feel guilty. If only he kept his mouth shut during the war meeting or didn’t act like a coward during the Agni Kai.

“You will be okay right?” Katara asked as they drew closer to an inlet. “I won’t be able to help you on land.”

“I won’t go far inland.” Zuko promised, bringing Katara some reassurance.

He watched in awe the brightly colored elephant-koi leap ahead of them, scrambling to get out of Katara’s path.

Wait.

Is that person…

Riding on the elephant-koi?!

“Be careful Little Arrow!” Katara chided.

“Kataraaaa!!!!”

The boy leapt off the fish and practically flew over to them before crashing on top of Zuko.

“Hi I’m Aang! You must be Golden Eyes! Nice to meet you!!!”

“What. Is. Happening?” Zuko questioned as he pushed the kid off him.

“I found this one inside an iceberg.” Katara explained.

“Yeah, Katara busted me out! Now we’re going to the North Pole so I can learn waterbending!”

“You’re a waterbender?”

“Well kind of. You see, I’m actually the Avatar.”

What.

“You’re the Avatar?” Zuko turned to Katara “He’s the Avatar?!”

“In the flesh!” Aang beamed.

Katara asked if he was okay but Zuko just let out a strained laugh.

The Avatar. Right here beside him.

What were the odds?

Zuko remembered what Zhao said about his mission of capturing the Avatar and how it was originally going to be Zuko’s condition he could return home on.

If he brought the Avatar to the Fire Nation…

No that’s crazy! Even if Zuko managed to pull that off, there’s no way his father would ever take him back.

“This is as far as I can take you.” Katara said, snapping Zuko out of his thoughts.

“Thanks, Katara!” Aang smiled then shot through the water on his air shooter.

Zuko’s mouth dropped.

An airbender…

Of course! Katara said she found him frozen in an iceberg. He must have been there for the past 100 years.

“Little Arrow is so excitable but still so naïve. I was wondering…”

“You want me to keep an eye on him.”

“If you do not wish to, I understand.”

Zuko thought about the war and the target on the boy’s head. He didn’t seem to realize how dire things were.

“I’ll keep him safe. Don’t worry Katara.”

Katara relaxed and smiled softly at him. “Thank you, Golden Eyes.”

Zuko slipped into the water and waded to shore. He turned and waved to Katara. She waved back then with a flick of her tail, she was gone.

“Lee!!!”

Zuko looked back towards the receding cliffs and saw a girl racing to him.

“Yue?! “

She looked so much different. Her long white hair was now cut short and she had burn scars all over her arms, neck, and shoulders. The two hugged tightly, relieved to find their friend alive.

“Why didn’t tell me your secret lover was a mermaid?!” Yue exclaimed as soon as they broke apart. “That’s so romantic!”

“She’s not my lover!”

“Golden Eyes?” Yue raised her brow and smirked at him.

“That’s just how she talks!” Zuko defended, ignoring the rising blush.

“Mmmhmm.”

“Yue! Golden Eyes!” Aang waved at them from on top of the cliff “C’mon you gotta check this out!”

Zuko groaned as Yue snickered at him. He asked if she was traveling with the Avatar also. Yue said she was and that she met him when Katara took her here to Kyoshi Island after rescuing her from the sea.

“Are you okay with returning to the Northern Water Tribe?”

Yue admitted that she was nervous, but the fate of the world was more important. Besides, she looked more like a harden warrior than a princess. They probably won’t even recognize her.

Aang yelled at them to hurry up. Yue shook her head and began making her way up the cliff. Zuko followed but paused and looked at the ocean.

He’ll see her again.

Chapter Text

Hi I've been thinking about this AU a lot lately and I really want to continue it especially since the ending was so abrupt.

So more coming soon!

Thanks for sticking around ❤

Chapter Text

“Let me get this straight.” The Kyoshi Warrior leader said in disbelief. “While running away from home, you were saved by a magical fish person, became a pirate, met the Avatar, then decided to travel across the world with him to end the 100 years’ war.”

“Yeah, that sums it up.” Zuko stated bluntly.

“And what are you, a long lost princess?” she asked Yue half-jokingly.

“In matter of fact, I am.” Yue pulled out her engagement necklace stamped with the Northern Water Tribe royal seal.

“La drown…” the leader muttered. "You're serious."

“What are your orders, Suki?” one of the other warriors asked. “No doubt the Fire Nation will be here soon looking for them.”

Zuko and Yue glanced at each other. His hands twitched and he wished he had his swords.

“Mingxia, double the scouts and check the premier. Yuka, call the elders for an emergency meeting. The rest of you return to training. Lian you’re in charge of the new recruits. Make sure they don’t slack off.”

The warriors saluted before leaving to fulfill their duties. Suki motioned for Zuko and Yue to follow her to a nearby building. “Is there anything else I should know?”

“The Avatar is not the only one the Fire Nation is after.” Zuko answered firmly. “There’s a bounty on me too.”

“What are you talking about Lee?” Yue asked carefully. “Is that why The Black Tooth pirates captured you?”

Zuko sighed. Mind as well come clean now.

“My real name’s not Lee. It’s Zuko.”

“As in the missing Fire Nation prince? That Zuko?” Suki crossed her arms. She had seen the wanted posters on the mainland.

Zuko nodded grimly.

Yue and Suki stared at him shocked.

"Not to sound crass," Suki started slowly. "But why did you run away from the cushiony palace life?"

"I didn't agree with how carelessly lives were thrown away, so I voiced my opinion. It wasn't exactly met with open arms." Zuko dropped his gaze ashamed.

"But you want the war to end, right?" Suki asked.

"Yes of course-"

“Then that settles things. I'm coming with you.”

Both Zuko and Yue gave her a confused look.

"Look we got the Avatar and the missing heir to the Fire Throne who's against the war. The way I see it, this is the best shot we have to ending the 100 Years War for good!"

"She's right..." Yue gasped. "We can end the war!"

"Wait wait wait," Zuko waved his arms. "It's not that easy!"

"Of course not. That's why I'll be coming along to keep you guys straight." Suki said before leaving. “You can stay here for the night. Supper in a few.”

Zuko facepalmed and groaned. How was any of this happening? He then peaked at Yue between his fingers.

"I'm sorry Yue. I haven't been completely honest with you and it's my fault our crew is dead."

“Trust me, I understand why you hid your identity. It's not your fault." Yue glared at her engagement necklace before stuffing it in her pocket. "I have to know. What you told me about your father..."

"That part's true." Zuko said bitterly. He didn't give her the full story about the Agni Kai, but he heavily imply Ozai was the reason for his leaving.

Yue was silent for a moment before speaking again.

“Suki's right, you know. With the Avatar back, we can defeat the Firelord!”

Zuko hummed unconvinced and watched Aang juggle pinecones to entertain giggling little girls. He seemed like an alright kid, but he was just that.

A kid.

“That is if Katara doesn’t get to him first.” Zuko glanced back at Yue who raised her eyebrows expectedly. “You know I’m right.”

Zuko smirked thinking about the protective mermaid he befriended.

With her help, they weren't completely hopeless after all.

~*~

They left the next morning at dawn much to Aang's and Yue's dismay. Zuko was used to Yue's morning grogginess, but the young Avatar was a completely different story. He dragged Aang out of bed and practically threw him onto the air bison while Suki made sure everything was in order in her wake. Finally, they set off leaving Kyoshi Island far behind them.

“Are you sure this is the right way?” Zuko frowned as he studied the map. They were only hours in on the journey and he was certain they were already lost.

“Yeah sure! Appa and me used to make this trip all the time!” Aang pointed his staff towards the horizon. “Second star to the right then onward till dawn!”

“That's not a constellation!” Zuko hissed then pointed towards some distance islands. “Oh look, it's the island we pass the third time in a row!”

Suki leaned over his shoulder to check the map. “It’s not the same island. It’s still part of the Whale Tail Archipelago.”

“See, I know where we’re going.” Aang said smugly.

“But we’ve veered too far west heading towards Fire Nation water territory.”

“Oh. Whoops.” Aang steered Appa back on course.

“Maybe if you stopped goofing around and paid attention, then we wouldn’t be flying around in circles!” Zuko scolded.

“I don’t see why we can’t go to the Southern Water Tribe to learn waterbending. It’s a lot closer.”

A heavy silence fell over the group.

“Aang, there is no more Southern Water Tribe.” Yue whispered lowly.

“Katara said it's still around.”

Before anyone could ask what he was talking about, Appa quickly descended into the ocean surface. Aang laughed as the others held on to the saddle for dear life.

“A bit of a warning would have been nice.” Zuko muttered as he wringed out the map.

“Sorry, Appa really like the water.” Aang then pointed at a large fin breeching the surface. “Look an eel-whale!”

“It’s pretty close.” Suki mused.

Yue squinted. “That’s a tuna-shark fin.”

Suki joined her at the edge of the saddle as they continued to watch the fin slice through the water. “I didn’t know they got that big.”

“They don’t.” Zuko said firmly. He pulled out a Kyoshi warrior sword like it could do anything against the massive sea creature.

“You think it's Katara?” Yue asked him while trying to calm Momo who jumped into her arms.

Zuko shook his head. Katara’s tail was blue not silver.

“Aang, we need to go.” Suki ordered, sensing the tension. “Now.”

“But Appa’s still tired.”

The fin disappeared under the surface and glided under the air bison who fidget nervously. Yue leaned over the saddle to get a closer look at the silhouette just under the screen of water. It dawned on her that it was two large set of eyes staring back. Suki pulled Yue back by the shirt just as an enormous head rose from the water. Momo shrieked and leapt into Aang's robes as the others gawked at the new visitor.

It was another mermaid!

Mer-man to be exact.

The top half of his face was silver and bottom half white with black markings around his chin, forehead, and eyes resembling an artic wolf bat. Appa jolted, causing the awe-stricken teens to fall back. Acting purely on instinct, Zuko lodged his sword into the creature’s cheek.

He didn’t even flinch.

“Really?” The merman deadpanned. “Humans. I swear.”

“Who are you?!” Zuko demanded.

“Hey Sokka!” Aang waved. “These are my new friends!”

“Charmed.” He yanked out the sword and dropped it in front of Zuko’s feet. "And you must be, what was it, Golden Orbs?

“Where’s Katara?!”

"Calm down hot head." Sokka said dryly. “She just told me to check on you. Which I did. So I’ll be leaving now.”

“The Southern Water Tribe. " Yue spoke up. "Is it really not gone?"

The merman leaned closer staring intensely at her. Yue took half a step back feeling overwhelmed. He frowned and shook his head.

"I'm seeing things." he muttered before disappearing under the water kicking up larger waves in the process.

"Wait!" Yue called out to no avail.

“So… that’s a magical fish person…” Suki said slowly still in shock. She laid down and covered her face with her arm.

“Yep!” Aang beamed. “That was Katara’s brother. He's pretty cool but takes some little use to being around. When I first met him, he tried to eat Appa.”

The air bison let out an annoyed grunt.

“Yeah, no kidding.” Zuko picked up the sword wincing slightly at the seafoam green liquids covering it.

Suki started laughing.

“What’s so funny?” Zuko asked annoyed.

She gestured around her. “All of this! Think about it. Two runaway royals turned pirates, an orphaned warrior, a child monk, and his pets are aided by giant magical fish people to help end a 100 years war.” Suki said in between fits of laughter. “Tell me you don’t find that the least bit ridiculous?”

“It does sound like something out of a spirit tale.” Yue agreed as Aang snickered.

"Exactly!" Suki exclaimed.

Zuko pinched the bridge of his nose. “Let’s just hope this one has a happy ending.”

Chapter Text

Zuko should have known better. Everytime they went into town, something bad happened. First Omashu, now this. He peaked through the trap door where Amara stashed him and Aang as a Fire Nation soldiers inspected the house.

“Heard there might be fugitives in town.” The captain sneered. “You wouldn’t do something as foolish as harboring them would you?”

“I told you, it’s only my son and nieces here. No one else.”

“Nieces huh?” He looked Suki and Yue up and down. The captain tsked noticing their Water Tribe features. “Half-breeds.”

Amara crossed her arms. “Are we done here?”

“No. Pay your fee.”

“We did last week.” Haru said firmly.

Amara placed a hand on his shoulder to hold him back.

“We don’t have any money left. But if you give us two weeks-“

“Are you dirt-eaters trying to short me?” He raised his arm and the soldiers lit their palms prepared to strike. “Pay now or I’ll burn down this shack with you in it!”

Suki’s hand hovered over her fan as Zuko gritted his teeth, prepared to jump out and counterattack. Yue stood in front of the trap door.

“Stop!” she pulled out her betrothal necklace. “Take this.”

The captain slapped it out of her hand. “The savage money is useless! But you’ll do just fine.”

“No take me instead!” Haru said firmly. “Just leave my family alone.”

“Haru, you don’t have to do this!”

“Yes I do.”

The captain smirked. “Deal.” He signaled the soldiers to arrest Haru and drag him outside. “He’ll make excellent cannon fodder.”

“NO!” Amara cried.

Zuko busted out of the trap door and tried to give chase before Suki stopped him.

“Haru fight back! Earthbend!!!” he yelled.

“Earthbender eh?” the captain mused. “Take him to the prison ship. Thank you for the tip, kind sir. And as of today, your fee has just doubled.”

Amara collapsed to her knees and wept. While Yue and Aang comforted her, Suki released Zuko.

“Why did you tell them Haru was an earthbender?!” she hissed.

“So he wouldn’t be dressed up as a Fire Nation solider and sent to the front lines!” Zuko spat. “Mining coal is better than being crushed by your own countrymen!”

Suki looked down, disheartened.

“Get out…” Amara whispered hoarsely. “All of you leave now before they come back.”

“We’ll recuse him, ma’am.” Yue said firmly.

“How?” Aang asked.

Yue picked up the necklace and balled her fist over it.

“I was already offered passage, remember?”

~*~

This was a bad idea.

A really really bad idea.

Zuko and Aang watched from the bushes as Yue and Suki talked to some soldiers near the docks. They swayed back and forth and giggled every now and then. Aang scrunched up his face.

“Why are they acting like that?”

Zuko pinched the bridge of his nose. “Don’t worry about it.”

The soldiers finally let them aboard the dinghy, nudging each other along the way.

“That’s phase one. Let’s go!” Zuko whispered shouted.

The boys raced back to Appa then silently followed the boat to a fortress in the middle of the ocean. Appa quietly landed in the water just below the hull to avoid detection. Now all they had to do was wait for the signal.

“Hey Hotman.”

Zuko rolled his eyes at the nickname but didn’t bother to correct him. “What?”

“How did you know what the Fire Nation did with prisoners of war?”

“I’ve heard rumors.” Zuko subconsciously brushed his scar. “I wouldn’t put it pass them.”

Aang curled in on himself. “I hope the girls are alright.”

“They’ve probably already tied the soldiers by their bedsheets by now.”

Aang let out a light laugh. But as the night drew on, the more worried they became. They should had signaled by now. Zuko grabbed his swords and scaled some of the side of the fortress when Aang gasped.

“Katara!”

“Little Arrow! Golden Eyes!” She smiled warmly as she stroked Appa’s head affectionally.

Zuko dropped down to the saddle. “Katara! You came back.”

“Sorry it took so long.”

Sokka surfaced nearby. “See I told you they were fine.” He said dryly.

Zuko tsked. “You again.”

“Nice to see you too Hot Head.”

“Sokka hush.” Katara glared at the iron ship before them. “Is there danger? Where’s Silver Moon?”

“On the Fire Nation prison ship.” Aang pointed to the ship. “She and Suki snuck on to bust Haru out.”

“What?!” Sokka gasped.

Just then, Yue appeared at the railing and whistled.

“Silver Moon!” Katara held out her palm for Yue to climb on. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah I’m fine.”

“What were you thinking?! You could have gotten killed!” Sokka chided.

Yue smiled. “I didn’t realize you cared so much.”

Sokka huffed. “Don’t read too much into it.”

“Where’s Suki and Haru?” Zuko asked noticing Yue’s prison garment.

“Suki sent me ahead. There were some… complications.” Yue eyed the ship. “We can’t leave now. There are still hundreds of prisoners on board.”

“Yes of course.” Katara said firmly.

“Katara we can’t keep going around destroying every Fire Nation ship we run into. They’ll catch on.”

“So what? It’s about time we do something instead of sit by and watch.”

“But the rules!”

“What rules?” Zuko spoke up. “What are you two talking about?”

Katara and Sokka glanced nervously at each other.

“Don’t worry about it Golden Eyes. It’s nothing.”

Zuko looked at Aang who shrugged. He was just as confused.

“So this escape.” Katara returned her attention to Yue. “You’ll need a distraction right?”

Yue nodded. “Long enough to free the prisoners and get them to a ship.”

“I’ll help you free them.” Zuko pulled out his sword. “Aang, you and Appa secure a ship.”

“Sure thing.” Aang grabbed the reins. “Appa yip yip!”

Katara placed Yue and Zuko back on deck then wished them luck.

Sokka crossed his arms. “And how exactly are we supposed to distract them?”

“Come now, Sokka.” Katara spun some water around her hand and smirked. “You know how easily spooked humans are.”

~*~

Zhao fumed as he read the report. The entire Tanko Fortress was completely destroyed by a storm. What’s more was both the Avatar and the ex-prince were seen there freeing prisoners. Zhao burned the scroll.

That traitor!

“Admiral. We found Tanko’s warden.” A solider said as he walked in with the Warden.

“Leave us.” Zhao waved off.

The solider bowed then quickly shut the door.

Zhao crossed his arms and looked at the huge map hanging from the wall.

“Tell me, Warden Homura, did you not properly prep the fortress for ill weather?”

“It was… unexpected, Admiral. I have never seen the waves behave like that before. Almost as if they were controlled by-”

“Spirits?”

Homura cleared his throat. “Could have been waterbenders.”

“This far South?" Zhao hummed. "The report said all of the ships were lost except two.”

“Yes sir. The prisoners commandeered them and headed separated directions. One west and the other north.”

“North you say?” Zhao closed the gap between them. “And you didn’t pursue them?”

“The rest of the ships were lost sir.”

“Yet, you made it here.”

Homura swallowed.

“The truth warden. Quickly.”

“There’s… something aiding the Avatar. One moment clear skies then the next waves as rough as the middle of a storm. What’s more is there were figures in them.”

“Figures?”

“Massive distorted fish of some kind. I…I don’t know what they were. The Fort was lost so my remaining men and I escaped on a dinghy.”

Zhao tsked. “You know the price for desertion Warden.”

“Do what you must but I’m never going near the ocean again!” Homura shook his head. “We’ve angered the spirits and are now facing their wrath.”

“I’ve faced spirits before and unlike you, I refuse to be swayed by them. We are sons of fire, Warden! Have you forgotten?” Zhao scoffed. “You are discharged for cowardice, effective immediately.”

Zhao called in the guards and had them escort Homura to the prison below deck. He then addressed the ship's captain.

“Change of plans. Head North and be on the lookout for prison class A ships.”

“Yes sir!”

Zhao gripped the edge of the table. The ex-prince and his ‘spirit’ allies may have bested him once but Zhao refused to let that happen again.

Chapter Text

“That symbol.”

Aang pointed to the cliffside. The blue paint was faded from years of erosion, but it was still there. Zuko peered through the telescope.

“I don’t see anything.”

“There. See the swirls?” Aang’s heart raced. “It’s a migration checkpoint.”

“Meaning?” Zuko questioned.

“Towns would set up these symbols to welcome Air Nomads looking for rest in between travels. What if they’re markers for refuge during the war and some are still hiding there now!”

“Or it could be a trap.” Zuko closed the telescope.

“I have to check it out. There could be survivors there!”

Ignoring Zuko’s protests, he took off on his glider and flew to shore.

“Ash and cinders Aang!” Zuko swore.

“Did he take off again?” Yue called from the cockpit.

Zuko grabbed his swords and marched to Appa. This was so obviously a trap. Zhao’s ships couldn’t get close to them while at sea. He was clearly drawing them to land away from the merfolk’s protection.

“We’re coming with you.” Suki met him with Yue close behind, both already strapped with weapons.

They took Appa to shore where Aang disappeared into the forest. Yue and Suki quickly followed after him. Zuko followed as well but stopped short when he heard a splash. He turned and saw Katara watching them with a concerned expression.

“What’s wrong?”

“Aang thinks he found more Air Nomads and took off into the forest.”

Katara glanced behind him and furrowed her brows.

“Be careful, Golden Eyes. I don’t have a good feeling about this.”

Zuko looked back at the sprawling forest.

“Me either.”

~*~

Aang weaved through the trees following the hidden symbols. He stopped in front of a cavern that had prayer beads over the entrance. Aang’s heart skipped a beat.

“I knew they weren’t all gone.”

“Aang! What in Kyoshi’s name do you think you’re doing?!” Suki scolded. “You can’t take off like that!”

“I’m sorry but look! It is a resting point!” Aang picked up the beads. “Air Nomads could have hidden out here to escape Sozin’s army.”

“Maybe so. But you can’t break rank like that without warning. It puts us all in danger.”

“Don’t you think I deserve to know what happened to my people?!”

“Of course, but that’s not the point here.”

“Then what is?”

“The point is we need to get back to shore!” Zuko interrupted.

“In a minute-“

“Now Aang!”

While the others argued Yue carefully watched the surrounding forest. The wind whistled through the trees tossing shadows around. A dark figure caught her eye. Yue raised her knife, prepared to throw, when an arrow impaled her hand causing her to scream.

“Yue!” Zuko exclaimed.

Before anyone could react, arrows rained down on them from every direction. Aang blew several of them away with a gust of wind. Yue wrapped her hand with her headband as they tried to make it back to shore but they were quickly overwhelmed and surrounded. Multiple arrows pierced Suki’s leg causing her to fall. When Yue went to help her up, Suki pulled her to the ground and told her to play dead. Weighted nets pinned down Zuko and Aang before they were shot with drugged tipped arrows.

“Take the Avatar and traitor to the fortress.” The leader ordered. He glanced at the girls’ impaled bodies and decided not to waste anymore arrows. They needed to secure the prisoners before the suppressants wore off.

“We’re done here.”

~*~

“Katara you’ve been in the shallows too long.” Sokka chided. “What if someone sees you?”

She craned her neck. “They’re not back yet. It’s been hours.”

“I took a look around. No Fire Nation ships in sight.”

Katara sucked her teeth causing Sokka to groan.

“They probably got sidetracked by a festival again or vegetable tree.”

“You mean fruit tree?”

“That’s what I said.”

Katara rolled her eyes. Appa suddenly jolted awake and raised sniffed the air.

“What is it Appa?”

He let out a sharp grunt then took off towards the forest.

“Appa!” Katara crawled furthered onto shore. “I knew something was wrong!”

Sokka pulled her back. “Don’t even think about it!”

Katara turned to yell at him but stopped when she saw his worried expression.

“Appa will help them.” He said firmly.

Katara nodded, praying that Sokka was right. Appa returned shortly after whimpering lowly. Suki and Yue rode on his tail, both covered in arrows and barely clinging to life.

“Mother of faces…” Sokka muttered. "Who did this? The soldiers?"

“NO!” Katara cupped them gently. “Hang on. I can fix you.”

She had to slowly remove the arrows to avoid accidently ripping off a limp. The process was painstaking long but thanks to her water healing, the Suki and Yue survived.

“Still no ships.” Sokka reported after doing another sweep while Katara healed the girls.

“Where’s Golden Eyes and Little Arrow?”

“We don’t know. We were attacked by masked archers and they took them to some sort of fortress in the woods.” Yue answered weakly.

"There's a mountain range nearby." Sokka thought out loud. "That must be where they're located."

“We’ll get them.” Suki struggled to stand but clutched her side.

“No Star Dust.” Katara deposited them on the ships deck. “You need to rest. We’ll take care of things.”

Suki wanted to protest but she knew Katara was right. Despite their wounds being healed, they were still exhausted from the attack. She reluctantly let Yue helped her to her room as Appa returned below deck.

The skies darken and wind picked up. Sokka eyed his sister.

“I’m fine.” She said shortly.

Sokka place a hand on her shoulder. “You need to rest too. I’ll keep an eye on them.”

“Fine.”

“And please don’t do anything stupid. We're in enough trouble as is.”

Katara ignored him as she dove under. Anger brewed deep inside. She was not going to turn her back on her friends or anyone else who needed her help. To Koh with the rules.

It was time to take matters into her own hands.

Chapter Text

This again.

Zuko hissed as soon as he woke up. He could hear Zhao’s victory speech even inside his cell. The bastard went on and on about the Fire Nation’s glory as well as his own. Zuko rolled his eyes. He needed to focus on escaping and getting Aang out immediately.

Thankfully, the soldiers didn’t remove all of his weapons. Zuko strained against the chains and pulled out the hairpin holding his topknot. He blew the stray hair out of his eyes then started on picking the lock.

The speech ended and heavy boot steps filled the halls. Zuko swore as he quickly scooted back to his original spot, not realizing he left the pin in the lock.

“Prince Zuko. Oh pardon me. Ex prince.” Zhao jeered. “We really need to stop meeting like this.”

“You don’t say.” Zuko remarked dryly.

“Just think, in only a few short weeks, I’ve captured both you and the Avatar. All it took was a few Air Nomad artifacts and you practically threw yourselves at me.”

“Don’t dislocate your shoulder patting yourself on the back.”

“Once I drop you and the Avatar off in the Fire Nation, the Firelord will surely promote me once more. Then I’ll have a big enough army to conqueror the North.” Zhao paused and looked pointedly at Zuko. “And kill your pet monster.”

“Don’t you dare!” he growled.

Zhao smirked. A glint caught his eye. He picked up the hairpin and laughed mockingly.

“Really? I’m embarrassed for you.” He burned the pin and strolled to the exit. “Try to get some rest. I do want you conscious for my victory parade. You'll be the center stage trophy right after the Avatar.”

The door slammed shut leaving Zuko alone once again. More determined than ever, he pulled on the chains. He refused to let it end like this! After what felt like hours later, fog poured in from the cracks before the forcibly door swung opened. A cloaked figure stood ominously in the door frame.

“Who are you?! What do you want?!” Zuko demanded.

The stranger staggered towards him as the fog around them increased. The sharp metallic scent of blood lingered in the air. Before Zuko could react, the chains holding him fell to the ground with a loud clatter. The stranger looked at him through thick veils under the bamboo hat then left without a word. Bewildered, Zuko quickly followed. In the hallway were dozens of limp soldiers in twisted positions. Zuko swallowed the rising bile and forced himself to continue.

They went further into the stronghold before coming upon a heavily guarded room. Zuko remained in the shadows as the stranger trudged forward in full view. Zuko swore under his breath, but something told him to wait. The stranger raised their hands causing the soldiers to freeze in place. Their eyes rolled back as they twitched unnaturally before fainting.

What in Koh’s lair…

Were they some kind of spirit?

Wasting no time, the stranger opened the door as Zuko left his hiding spot and followed. Inside, Aang hung suspended from the ceiling by multiple chains. He lifted his head and brightened almost instantly.

“Zuko!”

“Quiet!” He whispered shouted while fumbling with the locks. “Do you want to alert the entire army?!”

“Sorry. Who’s your friend?”

“It doesn’t matter who they are only that they’re helping us escape.” Zuko turned to the stranger. “You are helping us, right?”

They gave a firm nod before pulling a blade out of nowhere and slicing Aang’s chains.

“Thank you, Miss.” Aang rubbed his arms then frowned. “Are you okay?”

Zuko glanced over saw a trail of bloody footprints. He raised his brow equally concerned. The stranger nodded again but neither of the boys were convinced.

“We still a way to go to get out of here.” Zuko gestured to his back. “Hop on. I’ll carry you.”

The stranger seemed hesitant but climbed on regardless. Zuko flinched. They were incredibly cold like a frozen winter’s night. This person wasn’t a spirit, but they certainly were not human either.

“Let’s go.”

~*~

They were going to die.

After several close calls and airbending feats, they were cornered right in front of the massive stronghold doors. Zuko sneered at Zhao’s smug face watching from the balcony.

“Kill the intruder. I want the others alive.”

In one quick motion, the stranger jumped off Zuko's back and held cold blades at his and Aang’s necks.

“You wouldn’t dare.”

The blades pressed harder drawing blood.

“STOP!” Zhao yelled frantically. “Open the doors!”

“But sir-“ his second-in-command protested.

“NOW!”

The doors creaked open and the trio slowly edged back as the fog enveloped them. The blades melted as the stranger dropped their arms. They were shaking hard and breathing irregularly. Without warning, an arrow fired through the mist and hit the stranger on the shoulder, knocking them down. Zuko caught them before they hit the ground. He gasped when their bamboo hat fell off.

“Katara?!”

~*~

Yue couldn’t sleep, no matter how tired she was. After helping Suki to her room, she had only gotten an hour at most before waking again. She leaned against the railing watching the night sky.

“You should be resting.”

Yue shrugged. “Can’t. Full moon tonight.”

Sokka studied her carefully.

“So it’s true. You’ve merged with the moon spirit.”

“A part of her, yes. She saved my life when I was a baby. How could you tell?”

“Well for starters you have white hair.”

Yue brushed a stray lock of white hair behind her ear. “I suppose that is a dead giveaway.”

“Also your eyes are very… moony.”

Yue laughed causing Sokka to smile sweetly at her.

“Moony?”

“Yes. I mean no. I mean, they're beautiful. I'm glad Tui spared your life. You're a good person.”

Yue flushed. “Thank you.”

Sokka scratched the back of his head awkwardly. “I’d better check on Katara.”

He was about to dive under when something caught his eye.

“What?”

“Someone’s coming.” Sokka narrowed his eyes. “It’s Aang and Zuko!”

He swam to shore ready to give them a lecture on not following hair-brain ideas, but stopped short when he saw the figure Zuko was carrying in his arms.

“Katara she-“

“Give her here.” Sokka said lowly.

Zuko waded into the freezing water and laid Katara on his outstretched hand. Sokka then disappeared under the waves without another word.

“Is she going to be okay?” Aang asked quietly while fidgeting with his staff.

Zuko gazed out at the inky depths as his heart thudded wildly. He felt like they just witnessed something they were not supposed to.

“I don’t know.”

Chapter Text

It had been weeks since they saw the siblings. Without the merfolk’s protection, traveling by ship was too dangerous so the group returned to flying on Appa but still stayed near the ocean. Zuko often found himself staring at the waves. The events of Pohuai stronghold played over and over in his mind. He couldn’t shake the feeling of Katara’s cold limp body in his arms.

Suki bonked his head with her fan.

“Ow! Would you stop that?!”

“I’ve been calling your name for the past two minutes.” She opened her fan and used it to conceal her face as a wagon passed by. “You gotta stop zoning out like this in the field.”

Zuko angrily turned away as he rubbed his head.

“They’ll be okay.” Suki said gentler. “Sokka’s taking good care of her.”

“I hope so.”

“I know so. Now be on guard. We’re close to town.”

Just over the hill laid a bustling Fire Nation colony in the middle of a festival.

Suki tsked. “There are too many Fire Nation citizens there. Go back to the temple. I’ll get the supplies alone.”

“No way. I’m not leaving you to drag all the supplies back alone.”

“You’re scar’s too recognizable.”

Zuko pulled his hood down further. The further North they went, the more colonies there were, making it harder to blend in. Yue and Aang had to stay behind with Appa during supply runs since their face tattoos were too noticeable. The surplus of wanted papers certainly didn’t help either.

“I just need a disguise.”

Further down the road, another wagon slowly made their way towards them. Theater masks hung on the side. He glanced at Suki before disappearing into the thickets. Suki groaned. This La drown Fire Prince and his La drown antics.

“HELP! HELP!” Suki frantically ran up to the driver. “My daughter’s missing! Sir you must help me!!!”

“I’m sorry Miss but I really need to get-“

“Please! She’s just a child!!! You must help!!”

“But-“

“KYOSHI MY BABYYY!!!”

Zuko rolled his eyes as he crept behind the cart. The masks were from the Love Amongst the Dragons, his mother’s favorite play. Zuko swallowed a thick lump that formed in his throat as he swiped the Blue Spirit mask for himself and a jade and gold one for Suki. He peaked around the cart and signaled for Suki to drop the act.

“Spirits curse you for not aiding an ailing mother!” she spat before marching away.

The driver scoffed then continued down the road muttering to himself.

“Kyoshi really?” Zuko asked while handing her the mask.

“I’d name all my daughters Kyoshi.”

“How would you tell the difference between them?”

“I birthed them. I know them. That simple.”

Zuko snorted lightly and put on the mask as they arrived to the festival.

“Alright, let’s split up. We’ll cover more ground that way.” Suki ripped the supply list in half and gave one piece to Zuko. “We'll meet here in one hour.”

Zuko nodded then headed off. The town was alive and buzzing with activity. Zuko quickly picked up the items, stealing most of them, then wandered around the grounds. His heart ached at the familiar sights of home. The circus was in town preforming tricks and fire dances. Against his better judgement, Zuko stopped and watched for a moment.

The performer on the tightrope quickly caught his attention. She did impossible flips and twirls then landed with a triumphant bow. The audience went wild and she threw kisses at them. She looked right at Zuko and widen her eyes. Zuko froze when he realized who it was.

He had to get out of there.

Zuko quickly ducked out of the audience and tried to disappear into the crowds. Everyone was dressed in colorful robes and masks. He should be able to slip away easily.

“Zuko?!”

He tsked and broke out into a sprint. After several minutes of weaving through traffic and booths, he slowed down to catch his breath. Escaping with heavy supplies was harder than expected but Suki would have his head if he left them behind. Sensing the coast was clear, Zuko emerged from the shadows to head back to the meet up spot. A figure decked in pink and gold dropped down from out of nowhere, startling him.

“Hiya!” she beamed.

“Ash and cinders Ty Lee!” Zuko swore.

She took off the large golden headpiece freeing her long braid.

“I knew it was you. Who else has red-grey aura and picks the Blue Spirit mask?”

“What are you doing here?”

“Same as you. I ran away!”

Zuko tilted his head confused.

“I got a break in between shows. Let’s grab something to eat. My treat.” Ty Lee grabbed one of his bags. “No one else is here.” She added sensing his hesitance.

“Fine." he caved in. "But make it quick.”

They picked up some Taiyaki pastries and fireflakes from a nearby booth. Ty Lee filled Zuko in on the events after the Agni Kai.

“After you disappeared, things got pretty crazy. There were rumors that you didn’t survive.” Her voice wavered some. Zuko swallowed thickly. “The healers and General Iroh were insisted that you made it and just ran off. The Firelord was about to push aside the whole thing until…”

“Until what?”

Ty Lee glanced around then leaned into Zuko’s ear.

“Until Princess Azula went missing.”

“WHAT?!”

Ty Lee shushed him. “No one else knows yet. It happened a week after you left.”

Zuko clutched his head. Azula was the lucky one; Father's favorite and adored by the nation. Why would she of all people runaway?

“I don’t know why either. The Firelord was really mad though and ordered for your return.”

“Why me and not her?”

Ty Lee shrugged. “Mai overheard there was some sort of deal that was broken. That’s why everyone’s back home is acting weird.”

“What a mess.” Zuko sighed. “But why did you runaway?”

Ty Lee picked at her food. “Mai moved to Omashu with her parents and with everyone gone, I didn’t have a way to stand out from my sisters anymore. The circus had an opening so I joined. And my aura’s never been pinker!”

“That’s great Ty Lee.” Zuko said sincerely.

“What about you? Are the rumors true?”

Zuko nodded knowing she was referring his alliance with the Avatar. “It’s the right thing to do.”

Ty Lee was silent for a moment.

“Are you mad?”

“No. I get why you’re doing it. I’m not gonna stop you.”

Zuko hummed, grateful for her understanding.

“But are you sure you’re alright? Your aura’s more grey than normal.”

Zuko hesitated a moment before speaking. “My friend was hurt really badly when I last saw her and I’m worried.”

“Oh no. How terrible!”

“She was there for me after the Agni Kai and helped me start over. I just wish I could help her somehow." Zuko clutched his head. "But I feel so useless! I don’t even know where she is!”

Ty Lee placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. “She’ll be alright. I mean, there was a reason why you two met right? The universe will give you an opportunity to repay her.”

Zuko wasn’t convinced but he thanked Ty Lee regardless.

"I know it's pointless to worry but..." Zuko subconsciously brushed his scar hidden under the mask. "I miss her."

“You really like her, don’t you?”

Zuko’s cheeks flushed. “She's my friend, of course I like her. She's an amazing, beautiful, brave-”

Mermaid was at the tip of his tongue before Zuko stopped himself. Ty Lee smirked playfully at him.

"She sounds incredible."

"Yeah. She is." Zuko glanced at the setting sun. “I have to go. Could you uh, not mention to anyone that you saw me here?”

Ty Lee tilted her head. “What do you mean? I’ve been hanging out with The Blue Spirit all evening.”

Zuko’s shoulders shagged with relief as Ty Lee flashed him a bright smile.

“Take care.” She said as she hugged him. “And be careful.”

Zuko returned the hug. “You too.”

Mixed emotions filled him once more as they parted ways. He was glad for Ty Lee but also felt confused and alarmed by the mess back home. He couldn’t figure out why Azula would leave especially now that she had the throne. It didn’t add up. Zuko groaned. Something else to plague his mind with worry. He returned to the meet up spot where Suki was already waiting.

“Good I was about to search for you.” She snatched Zuko’s fireflake bag. “Oh and you brought snacks.”

“Careful they’re spicy.”

“Think I can’t handle some spice?”

“Suite yourself.”

On the way back, Suki ate the rest of the bag to prove herself although they had to stop by a brook so she could wash her burning mouth. They eventually returned to the base of the Air Temple where camp was set up. Yue and Aang with sitting around the fire along with some other people.

“We’re back.” Zuko announced.

“Who are your new…“ Suki stopped short.

She and Zuko both gasped when they got a better look at the guests. They were clothed in dark cloaks and feet wrapped in seaweed. But the blue swirls tattoos and silver wolf-bat mask were a dead giveaway.

“How…”

“It’s a long story.” Katara said wearily. “Now that you’re back, we can finally tell it. All of it.”

Chapter Text

The sound of the fire crackling filled the crisp night. All sat silently with bathed breath waiting for Katara to speak.

“A hundred years ago after the Fire Nation attacked the Air Temples, they turned their attention to the Water Tribes. There was already tension between the sister tribes so the North had no problem turning their back on the South, leaving us defenseless.” She said bitterly. “We fought as hard as we could, but our numbers were quickly dying. The Shaman called for a fast and the whole tribe begged the spirits for aid. Our cries reached La and he agreed to help but for a price.”

Katara held up her hands, still slightly webbed and wrinkled from waterlogged. The tension in the air thickened. Sokka placed his hand on her shoulder before continuing.

“Our ancestors performed a ritual then slipped into the ocean where La transformed them. He made it clear this was a one time thing. If the Fire Nation came for us again, he wouldn’t interfere.”

“Why not?” Aang interrupted. “He has the power to stop the war.”

Sokka’s eyes harden. “It’s the Avatar’s job to keep the peace. Not his.”

Aang flinched then glanced away sheepishly.

“It’s not your fault, Little Arrow.” Katara said gently. “Because of this, the tribe set up rules. No interfering with the war. No mingling with humans. And avoid the Fire Nation ships. ”

“All this time we thought the Fire Nation wiped you out” Yue whispered in disbelief. “We never should have abandoned our sister tribe.”

“My people, my family , has done this to your tribe." Zuko said hoarsely. He knelt down and bowed. "I’m so sorry.”

“It’s none of your faults.” Katara said firmly. "Please stop blaming yourselves."

“The rules.” Suki spoke up. “What happens when you break them?”

“You’re executed.” Katara hugged herself. “But Father bargained it down to banishment instead.”

The others looked at her alarmed.

“Y-You can’t go home?” Aang asked shakily. “Ever?”

“They can sense our presence which is why Sokka and I would disappear from time to time. We’d go back home to throw off any suspension. But after I was injured and Sokka brought me to the healer, they found out because I was on land too long because… so we were...” She covered her mouth as tears escaped.

Sokka pulled her into a hug while blinking away his own tears.

Zuko gently grabbed her hand. “The night you rescued me from the storm, you promised to watch over me. You've kept that promise not just to me but to the rest of us. We'll do the same for you.”

“Both of you.” Yue confirmed. “You have our word.”

Suki and Aang wholeheartedly agreed as all four of them embraced the siblings.

Sokka closed his eyes as more emotions flooded him. Katara wiped her cheeks. Gratitude filled her heart.

“Thank you.”

~*~

It was late when the group retired for the night. The North Pole was still a couple of days away and they needed to put as much distance between Zhao’s army as they could. Sokka silently wrapped Katara’s feet with fresh seaweed then disappeared into the ocean.

“You’re not joining him?” Zuko asked while watching him leave.

Katara shook her head and pull the cloak tighter around her.

Zuko frowned. Even though he only caught a brief glance of her human form during the prison break, he could tell it had changed since then. Katara's skin wasn't as cold now and the gills on her neck weren't as visible. Deep dread filled Zuko.

“What about the rule of not staying on land too long?”

“It’s more of a safety measure. Shapeshifting outside of water is tricky and has side effects. Especially when you don't carry a piece of the ocean with you while on land. I was in such a rush that night I...”

The realization hit Zuko like a ton of bricks. He stared at Katara in horror.

“Does that mean…”

Katara looked at him with wide trembling eyes, breaking his heart.

“I-I can’t transform back.”

Chapter Text

The water bubble shifted carefully in the air before dissolving and falling back into the sea. Katara sucked her teeth. This used to be so easy! Bending in human form without the full moon was a lot harder than expected.

“Katara take a break.” Zuko called from the saddle. “You’ve been at it all day.”

“In a moment.”

“You said that an hour ago.”

Katara ignored him as she concentrated on the water bubble again. It morphed into a stream as she guided it around her.

“Golden Eyes, look! I’m doing it!”

Zuko couldn’t help but be happy for her. “Amazing!”

“Okay now I just...”

Katara extended her arms forward. The water went the opposite direction and hit Sokka right as he emerged to give his scouting report. He sighed deeply as Aang laughed.

“Already picked up the habit throwing stuff at my head, I see.”

Katara growled in frustration as returned to bending posture. Zuko climbed onto Appa’s tail and sat beside her.

“Katara-”

“I can do this. I can. Just give me a minute.” Her hands shook as she levitated the water only for it to immediately fall back.

Zuko grabbed her hand.

“Take a break. Please?”

Katara sighed wearily. He was making that face again. “Using your secret weapon on me is low.”

Zuko smirked. “Why? Is it working?”

Katara answered his question by laying against the base of Appa’s tail. Zuko joined her reveling in the minor victory. After a moment of rest, Katara’s stomach growled causing her to groan again.

“Here. I know you like it fresh, but this should tie you over until Sokka returns from hunting.” Zuko gave her a strip of turtle-seal jerky.

Since they were starting to run out of rations, it was agreed save it for Aang to maintain his vegetarian diet while Sokka caught food for them. Afterall, one turtle-seal lasted the four of them for days.

“Thank you Golden Eyes.”

She munched on the jerky while they watched the clouds lazily drift by.

“I wish I could do more. I feel so useless.” Katara admitted low enough only for Zuko to hear.

Zuko sat up. “Trust me when I say you’re anything but. You’re still the brave, kind, selfless mermaid I met nearly a year ago. Just with feet instead of fins now.”

Katara rubbed her aching feet. The seaweed and cold helped but they were still sore. Zuko bit his lip.

“What I meant was, there’s a dark side and light side to every situation with a silver lining in the middle like clouds." Zuko said louder and faster than intended. "So when life gets hard, take a bite out of the silver sandwich!”

“Take a bite out of the silver sandwich?” Suki asked from the saddle. “What kind of advice is that?”

“That’s Zuko for you.” Yue shook her head.

“Would you two stay out of this?!” he yelled.

Katara cover her mouth as her shoulders started shaking. Zuko worried she was crying until he realized it was laughter. He breathed a sigh of relief and laid back down.

“I needed that.” Katara said after calming down some. “You’re right. I need to focus on the silver lining.”

“Like ending the war?”

“That and the other things I've never noticed before. Like how soft Appa’s fur is. Or how my hair feels when dry.”

Katara flipped on her side to face him. She carefully intertwined his hand in hers.

“Or how warm you are. It's like sunshine.”

Zuko flushed.

“Yeah Zuko’s a pretty neat Hotman!” Aang teased.

“Aang shut up!” Zuko shouted, more embarrassed than upset while the others laughed again.

Spirits, they needed to get to the North soon. Zuko loved his friends, but after being couped up together for days on straight he needed some La drown privacy. Not that The Painted Lady wasn’t very private either, but it had several hiding places he could stole away to. They continued to cloud watch until evening when Appa settled on an iceberg to rest. Suki, Yue, and Momo huddled close to Zuko while Katara dipped her feet in the water.

“Katara was right. You are warm.” Suki hummed. “Even in such temperatures.”

Zuko let out a steamy breath to help warm his friends. “My uncle taught me how to regulate my body heat. He called it the Breath of Life.”

“Hey that’s what airbenders do too.” Aang chipped in. “Which is why I don’t need a jacket!”

On cue, the artic wind blew causing him to shiver.

“You were saying?” Zuko teased.

Katara rewrapped her feet then lifted her blanket. “Come Little Arrow. Sit with me before you get sick.”

Aang snuggled up close to her side as Katara wrapped the rest of the blanket around him. Snuggling with her friends was another silver lining. She noticed a brief envious expression that passed on Zuko’s face before turning his attention elsewhere. Katara shook it off. She was probably just seeing things.

“Wake up sleepyheads! Dinner is served.” Sokka said with a limp seal-turtle hanging in his mouth.

He dropped the carcass on the ice along with a handful of seaweed.

“Sokka you have hands you know.” Katara said while covering Aang’s eyes with the blanket. He always forgot how sensitive Aang was towards animals.

“How am I supposed to crack the shell with just my hands?”

Katara gave him a dirty look.

“No need to thank me.”

“We do really appreciate it.” Yue said sweetly.

“I-It was nothing.”

Sokka sunk further until the water was up to his eyes. He then gave Katara a dirty look who was now smirking knowingly at him. Katara let it slide and helped drag the turtle-seal further onto the iceberg to be carved up and eaten raw with the seaweed. During the meal, Sokka quietly called Yue over.

“Is something wrong?” she questioned. After a couple of more lighthearted jabs, he usually left right away to hunt for his own dinner.

“No. It’s just…I noticed you carried around a necklace so I made this for you. Not to replace yours or anything. I thought you might like a little something.”

Sokka held a necklace between his pointer finger and thumb. Yue gasped softly. The necklace was made out of smooth ivory bones with a sapphire stone in the center.

“It’s beautiful.” Yue accepted the gift and tied it around her neck. “I love it. Thank you.”

Sokka visibly relaxed. “You’re welcome.”

He lingered a bit longer before disappearing under the waves. Yue touched the stone as her cheeks heated up. She doubted the South still followed the betrothal necklace tradition. This was a genuine gift no strings attached. Yue pulled out her betrothal necklace. Despite all the traveling, it was still in good condition like the night it was presented to her.

A beautiful collar for a beautiful princess.

Yue angrily balled her fist over the stone. She had people who care for her now and treated her with respect. So why was she still carrying this bitter reminder of everything he did to her? Fed up, Yue tossed the necklace into the sea, letting it and the bitter past sink into the inky depths.

~*~

After traveling another full day, the gang grew even more restless. Days were getting shorter as winter approached making it imperative to reach land before the Winter Solstice.

“Can’t you go any faster?” Sokka complained. “The sooner we get there, the sooner we can leave.”

“Here’s an idea. How about we get on your back and you swim us all the way to the North?” Aang sassed.

“Sure thing. Hop on.”

“Would you two knock it off?!” Zuko yelled.

Katara sighed. “Guys please. We’re all just tired.”

“I’m not. And I’m serious about that ride. Hop on Fur-face.”

Appa grunted. Suki put down the map and rubbed the sky bison’s head.

“It is a lot faster. Don’t worry, I won’t let him eat you.”

“That was one time.” Sokka huffed.

“Twice actually.” Aang corrected. “Once in the South Pole then again in the Southern Air Temple because you said Momo was too scrawny. Oh and then that one time when-“

“Okay! I’m sorry. There. Happy?”

Appa grunted again but accepted the half apology and climbed onto Sokka’s back. He was tired besides, a ride was a ride. Momo landed on top of Sokka’s head and chirped excitedly.

“Please keep inside the saddle at all times. Don’t want to lose any limbs.” Sokka announced sarcastically before slicing through the water.

Aang jumped onto his head beside Momo. “Now we’re talking!”

“What did I just say?!”

Zuko rolled his eyes as his pulled up his hood. At this rate, they just might make it to the North before annoying each other to death. He was about to make a smart remark before noticing Yue’s worried expression.

“Yue? Are you okay?”

Katara placed a hand on her knee when she didn’t respond. “Silver Moon?”

“Hmm? Oh sorry, just lost in thought I guess.” Yue rubbed the necklace stone between her fingers. “It’s been a while since I left.”

"Surely they will accept their princess back especially with the Avatar in company." Katara gently reassured her.

"That's what concerns me."

Zuko tightened his fists. He knew Yue had a troubled life in the North which is why she ran away and became a pirate in the first place. Even now, Zuko could scarcely entertain the thought of returning to the Fire Palace. He could only imagine how Yue was feeling.

“You’re not going to face them alone.” He said firmly. “We’ll be with you.”

Yue swallowed the lump in her throat and nodded.

Katara looked between them confused. She glanced at Suki who shook her head forlornly. The conversation she had with Zuko telling her how he received his scar replayed in her head.

My father did this to me.

Anger boiled deep down inside her. How could anyone be so cruel?!

Aang’s excited shouting provided a much needed interruption.

“There it is!” he pointed at the massive ice wall gleaming in the distance.

The Northern seal were proudly etched on both ends. At long last, they’ve finally arrived.

Chapter Text

Sokka managed to shift into human form and climb onto the saddle before guards on ice boats surrounded them with spears drawn.

“Turn back now!”

“We come in peace.” Suki spoke up.

“I’m the Avatar here to learn waterbending.” Aang raised his hands.

“Nice try. You think you’re the first one to try that trick?”

“Oh yeah? Could the others do this?”

Aang pulled out his marbles and bended them in a circle.

“See, airbending. Now let us in!” Zuko yelled aggravated.

“Cute.” The leader raised his hand signaling his squad.

“Captain Nanouk.” Yue stood and removed her hood. “Stand down.”

“Princess!” he gasped. “What happened to you?”

“That is none of your concern. Let us in.”

“Of course.”

The soldiers lowered their weapons and led them inside. The Frozen City was quite a sight to see. The ice buildings sparkled in the weak winter sun as waterbenders created moving art all around them. The group gapped in awe as Appa swam through one of the many canals. Crowds murmured and curiously watched them from the streets and bridges. Aang smiled and waved trying to make the best of it.

"Is that Princess Yue? What happened to her face?! She looks terrible!"

"Wait I thought she was in the palace."

"I-Is that boy Fire Nation? They let an ash-maker here?!"

"Something's off. Why aren't those two wrapped up tighter? And what are those bizarre tattoos?"

"How dare they mock the North!"

“They act like they’ve never seen another person before.” Zuko hissed.

“The North’s been cut off from the world for 70 years.” Suki said. “Our merry band of misfits is probably the first outsiders they’ve seen in a while.”

"Lucky us."

Katara silently fumed and rubbed the seaweed wrapped around her feet. “We’re still technically Water Tribe.”

“Try telling them that.” Sokka folded his arms and scoffed.

Appa was taken to the stables where the Musk ox-horses were kept while the rest of the group were brought to a sprawling building. An attendant waited for them at the top of the stairs.

“Princess, the Chief has heard of your return and invited you and the Avatar to the meeting hall.”

“Thank you.” Yue nodded. “Keep your head down and follow my lead.” she said low enough for only her friends to hear.

The others gave each other nervous glances before following, each already on edge. They walked through long halls filled with luxurious décor before coming to a huge room. A man dressed in thick fancy furs sat on the top level of an elevated plateau surrounded by equally important looking council men. Yue got on her knees and the others followed in suit.

“Princess Yue.” He said slowly, pronouncing every syllable. “I’d knew you would come crawling back to me with time.”

She subtlety held out her hand to stop her friends who were already gearing up. “Chief Hahn.” Yue said stiffly. “Thank you for inviting us.”

“I only invited you and the Avatar. Not these… people.”

“They are my companions, here to learn waterbending and aid in the war.”

“What good would these peasants do? ”

“Chief Hahn, I am the leader of the Kyoshi Warriors and this is Prince Zuko of the Fire Nation. We are here to form an alliance. If we combine our forces, we can turn the tide of the war.” Suki spoke firmly. “But only if we let go of old prejudices and work together.”

“You really expect me to believe that?" Hahn scoffed. "Princess, if these are your ‘companions’ then you’re naiver than I thought. Even if their story checks out, you’re covered in scars and dressed in rags like some street urchin. They clearly can’t take care of you properly must less win a war."

“Silver Moon earned those scars through battle.” Katara said through gritted teeth. “She is resilient and can take care of herself.”

“Unlike you who only knows how to hide behind a wall and let others die!” Zuko added.

“An ash-maker and feral washed-up girl think they lecture me?” Hahn scoffed.

"Our claims are true. See for yourself." Suki pulled out official Fire Nation wanted posters of them and gave them to the guards.

The council men looked through them and confirm the authenticity. Hahn tapped his fingers together as he thought.

“Chief Hahn, time is of the essence." Yue spoke. "The Fire Nation knows of the Avatar’s existence. He must be trained before they attack.”

“The Fire Nation hasn’t attacked since we closed the walls and they won’t start now.” Hahn dismissed. “This is why you should leave the politics to me. You frighten too easily. Nonetheless, Master Pakku here will train the Avatar.”

The man on his right stood and gave a firm nod. “It would be an honor, Chief Hahn. We will begin the assessment.”

“Now?” Aang asked. “We haven’t unpacked yet-“

“Do you intend to wait another 100 years to start training?”

Aang looked down ashamed.

“I thought so. Benders follow me to the arena. Before the ice melts preferably.”

Pakku walked out the door without waiting for them. Katara glared at him as she helped Aang up. “Come, Little Arrow.”

“The rest of you will be escorted to your rooms. Princess, return to your chambers immediately and take that ridiculous garb off.”

Yue swallowed hard. Sokka silently took her hand and squeezed it.

“I prefer to stay with my companions.”

“You prefer?" Hahn raised a brow. "No. You don’t get a choice in this. Now stop acting like stupid peasant girl and do as I say!”

“That’s enough!” Sokka yelled. “Don’t talk to Yue like that!”

Hahn tsked. “I am the Chief and her husband. I address her as I please.”

Sokka’s eyes widened in shock.

Yue tighten her jaw. “I left before the ceremony was completed.”

“Like that matters.” Hahn laughed mockingly. “Chief Arnook gave you to me. You’re mine, princess, whether you like it or not. Besides, I already seal the deal. Plenty of times actually. Regardless of a woman's status, at the end of the day no one wants used property-”

In one quick motion, Sokka was on his feet and punched Hahn in the mouth. Zuko and Suki pulled out their weapons and defended themselves against the attacking guards.

“You sick son of Koh!” Sokka growled while punching Hahn. “How dare you?! Bastard!!!”

The guards pulled him off of Hahn and forced him to his knees.

“Executed him!”

“Stop!” Yue demanded. “All of you! Fighting will get us nowhere!”

“He attacked me, the Chief, unprovoked! Do it now!”

“He is my husband!” Everyone froze in shock. All eyes immediately fell on Yue. “He was only defending my honor.”

“Lies.”

Yue pulled down her collar to reveal the necklace Sokka gave her. “We’d recently married at sea under Tui’s light.”

“Like I’m going to believe that.”

“I swear on my life it’s true!” Sokka hissed. “We’ve completed all the vows!"

"We never consummated the marriage after the ceremony like tradition states." Yue continued. "In the eyes of Tui, our union is invalid.”

Hahn snarled. He'll have to seek confirmation from the shaman but for now, his hands were tied.

“Take them to the dungeons for assault!” He then glared at Yue. “We will speak on this another time. Now. Get out.”

Chapter Text

The training area sat on a large outdoor field. Benders everywhere practiced sparring on dummies and with each other. Katara watched in awe. Human waterbending was so similar yet different to what she was used to.

"Show me what you know so far, Avatar." Pakku ordered as a small crowd gathered around.

"Sure thing."

Aang got into position and drew some water from the ice. He pushed and pulled the water to create small waves.

Katara smiled proudly. It was the first waterbending move she taught him, and he's already greatly improved. "Well done, Little Arrow."

"Thanks Ka-"

"Your form is all off. Bend your knees more and straighten your back."

Pakku cracked a water whip behind Aang, causing him to yelp out of surprise. Some students snickered lightly.

"Was that really necessary?" Katara crossed her arms.

"I'm sorry, are you a master waterbender?" Pakku's voice dripped in sarcasm. "Should I turn over my class to you since you know so much?"

"No but-"

"Then stay out of this. The healing huts are that way. Get going."

Katara tighten her fists. "I already know how to heal. I want to learn how to fight."

Pakku scoffed. "I don't know whatever backwards village you crawled out of-"

"Backwards?!"

"-but the North is civilized. Men fight and protect. Women heal and nurture. End of discussion."

"I was told you were the best master waterbender but what kind of master refuses a student?!"

"You are not my student. I do not teach girls, especially rude ones."

"Can't you make an exception for her?" Aang asked. "Katara protected us all the way here. We wouldn’t have made it without her."

"I highly doubt that." Pakku scoffed as he eyed Katara.

The girl seemed Water Tribe, but not quite. Besides her light kuspuk and no shoes in harsh winter, something was off. But what bothered Pakku the most were her eyes. He's definitely seen those them before.

"Where are you from?" he asked carefully.

Katara stood straighter. "The Southern Water Tribe."

"Impossible. There is no Southern Water Tribe." Pakku dismissed.

"Yes there is." Katara said firmly. "The South was not wiped out by the Fire Nation. La spared us by transforming our ancestors into merfolk. Our tribe thrives under the waves."

The arena erupted into laughter.

"It's true!" Aang added. "Katara and her brother are huge merfolk and took on entire navy fleets! Katara's the one who got me out of the iceberg! They're here to help end the war!"

"Which is why it is so important that I learn human waterbending to fight against-"

"Enough." Pakku held up his hand. "First, you barge into my class ignoring our customs by demanding to be taught. Now you blame your poor attitude on spirit tales?"

"I speak the truth!"

Pakku leaned in closer. "Then transform into a mermaid right now. We'd love to see it."

Katara felt her cheeks heat up from anger and embarrassment. "I'm stuck in human form."

"Of course you are." Pakku said smugly.

The students laughed even harder and mocked her. Katara snarled as the ice beneath her cracked.

"If you won’t train her then I quit!" Aang crossed his arms. Momo landed on his shoulder and hissed.

Pakku tsked. "Good luck finding another waterbending master outside the North."

"Fine by me!" Aang grabbed Katara's hand. "Let's go!"

"Wait." Katara stopped him. "You need to learn waterbending. We don't have time to find another master."

Aang looked between her and Pakku torn.

"I'll be fine." she said bitterly. "See you this evening."

"Alright." Aang sighed.

"Good to see someone has some sense. Tulok, show the girl the way." Pakku said as Katara turned to leave. "The rest of you get back to training. Our little mermaid needs to rest her fins. I'm sure the women would adore her spirits tales."

"YOU SOUR OLD MAN!!!" Katara yelled furiously. "LA DROWN YOU!!!" The cracks spread up the a nearby pillar causing to collapse.

The students, now silent, quickly got out her way as she stormed out. How she longed to put the fear of Tui and La into that bastard. But she knew she shouldn't mess up Aang's only chance of mastering waterbending. Katara was determined about one thing. She was going to master waterbending, one way or another.

~*~

The journey to the healing huts was far. Katara barely noticed the walk until Tulok broke her trance.

“Master Pakku cares little for spiritual matters.” He spoke in a quiet deep voice. “But he is vital to the warfront. Please reconsider your curse for the tribe's sake.”

Katara studied him. Despite Tulok’s large frame and many scars, he carried himself in a very reserved manner. Another master, perhaps. Though it was clear that Pakku made final decisions regarding waterbending. Anger flared up inside Katara once more.

“Why should I?” she shot back.

Tulok merely grunted.

"I do not wish your tribe harm though." Katara said after a moment of silence. “Do you really believe I am a mermaid?”

“I believe it is unwise to close myself to the possibility.” Tulok stopped in front of a small building and gestured towards the door. “Master Healer Yagoda will train you.”

“Thank you, Gentle Soul.”

Tulok’s eyes widen slightly but nodded in return. Katara took a deep breath and opened the tent flap. Inside were several young girls kneeling over a wooden body as an elderly woman gave a lecture on healing. She looked and gasped.

“Kanna?”

“My name is Katara.”

“Yes of course. You just really look like her, that’s all.” Yagoda shook her head. “Are you here for healing lessons?”

Katara tightened her fists.

“Yes.”

~*~

It was late by the time class ended. Katara stayed behind with Yagoda while the students’ mothers picked them up.

“Kanna was a dear friend of mine.” Yagoda explained while packing away the supplies. “She left the North a long time ago. I never knew what became of her.”

“Why did she leave?” Katara asked.

“She wanted more for her life and couldn’t find that here.” Yagoda sighed wearily.

Katara frowned and looked down. Was it the same reason why Silver Moon left? The way Chief Hahn and Master Pakku behaved, Katara didn't fault either woman for fleeing the Frozen City. Just then, Yue burst through the doors. She wore a fancy purple parka dress instead of her simple blue one and her short hair was braided back.

“Princess!” Yagoda rushed over and tenderly cupped her face. “Oh my dear.”

Yue's eyes watered but her voice remained steady. “It was the only way to ensure the Avatar would be trained.”

Yagoda pulled her into a hug. Katara watched from a respectful distance as tears formed in her own eyes.

“I’ve come for Katara.” Yue said after a moment.

“Of course.” Yagoda pulled apart then held her hand. “Let me know if you need anything.”

“Thank you Yagoda.”

The two walked outside where a sled pulled by well-groomed Musk ox-horses waited for them. Servants helped Yue and Katara on board then pulled off.

“Is Yagoda your mother?” Katara asked.

“In all ways except blood. She raised me after my mother died from childbirth.” Yue answered sadly.

“I’m sorry Silver Moon. Yagoda is a kind woman.”

Yue nodded. “I’m relieved she is alright.”

“Are we going to meet up with the others?”

“Only Aang.” Yue leaned close to her ear and whispered. “The others are in the dungeon for 24 hours.”

“What?!”

Yue shushed her as she glanced at the driver.

“There was a… disagreement, with the Chief.”

“Imprisoned for a mere disagreement? What sort of twisted system does the North govern by?!”

“An old one many refused to change from.” Yue sighed wearily. “Our friends will be taken care of. I’ll see to that. But until Aang’s training is complete, we have to keep a low profile.”

Katara sucked her teeth but deep down she knew Yue was right.

“Very well, Silver Moon.”

~*~

“Well?” Hahn tapped his foot impatiently.

“The atmosphere has shifted." The shaman said in a hushed tone. "Much more spirit energy ever since Princess Yue and her companions arrived.”

“Meaning?”

“Princess Yue is not the only spirit touched person among us now. I sense La’s presence on the strange Water Tribe siblings.”

Hahn hissed. He heard the report of the feral girl’s outburst at the training arena. Was she speaking the truth?

“Proceed with cation, Chief Hahn. Though La is often indifferent, we do not know how he would react if his vessels were dishonored.”

“What about Princess Yue’s union with that peasant?”

“It is too soon to tell. Though it was confirmed you and the Princess never completed the ceremony.”

Hahn tsked. “Not a word of this to anyone.”

“I serve the spirits alone.” The Shaman frowned. “Remember Hahn, the chief's role is to serve the people first. You can be removed if seen unfit.”

“We’ll see about that.” Hahn snarled.

He marched out of the hut fuming. If that peasant was truly spirit-touched like Yue, then he’ll try to make a move to overthrow him. Hahn would have to keep a close eye on the outsiders. His throne depended on it.

Chapter Text

If Zuko had a copper piece for every time he was thrown into prison, he'd have three copper pieces. Which isn't a lot but it's weird that it has happened three times.

The Northern Water Tribe dungeon was by far the worse. It was a literal hole in the ice that was somehow colder than the surface. Zuko had never felt such a bitter cold even when they were camping on the icebergs.

The group tracked further down the cavern looking for a way to escape. Sokka could stay in human form only but for so long. But the only thing they found were frozen human remains, preserved in mint condition by the cold. Most of them were foreigners.

“How many people have died here?” Sokka asked lowly.

“They were probably looking for refuge from the war.” Zuko looked away as anger filled him. He let it out by blasting a stream of fire towards the frozen ground. Steam filled the cavern.

“Zuko stop! You need to save your strength!” Suki warned. "First rule to fighting hypothermia is conserving body heat."

"She's right." Sokka added. "The last thing we need is you passing out from trying to melt the ice.”

"I'm not gonna pass out!" Zuko hissed.

He threw more fire. The steam around them immediately froze, covering them in more frost. Sokka tackled him to the ground.

"Would you listen for once!"

"Get off!" Zuko threw Sokka off of him. "I'll get us out! You'll see!"

He returned to the hole he melted only to discovered it had refrozen that quickly. Zuko swore and raised his hand to try again when Sokka grabbed his arm.

"Look Hot Head, I can survive the cold a lot longer than humans. But if you keep going on like this, you'll end up like our pals here." Sokka pointed behind him were the bodies laid.

Zuko glared at him then exhaled slowly. He could already feel his inner fire starting to wane.

"Fine."

"Good." Sokka let go of his arm. "Because I did not want to explain to Katara that her lover died from being an idiot."

"I am not an idiot!" Zuko yelled and marched up towards the entrance.

"But I'm right about the lovers thing, right?"

"Oh yeah. Yue told me how he used to sneak away every month to secretly meet her." Suki laughed.

"Same here. Katara was like, "oh I'm just going for a swim", then be gone all night! Mom swore up and down it was a guy."

"We're just friends!!!"

"Sure." Sokka and Suki said at the same time.

Zuko huffed.

This was going to be a long 24 hours.

~*~

Suki suggested they exchanged stories to stay alert. She told them about the mighty adventures Avatar Kyoshi had and some other tales the elders told her. Zuko didn't know many fun stories having grown up in the Fire Palace's high court and strict tutors. He did, however, memorize the entirety of Love Amongst the Dragons. Zuko refused to do the voices though. It was too embarrassing.

As the day slowly crawled on, things took a sharp decline. Zuko's Breath of Life no longer worked. He and Suki were quickly becoming drowsy. Sokka tried his best to keep them awake by taking over story time. He even stripped down to his pants and wrapped his friends with the extra clothes. They were still too cold. Sokka bit his lip. There were still a few hours left in the ice dungeon.

“And so Dad stuck an octopus-cat on his face. Bato had to practically rip it off and there were little patches on his face afterwards.”

“G-Gross…” Suki said through chattering teeth.

“But it worked. The masters thought he was sick and let him skip training.” Sokka let out a strain laugh. “Katara and I had the same idea a while back, but the masters already figured out the trick by then.”

“T-That… sucks… On… Kyoshi… we… stole… s-sweets… cleaned… waste…buckets…for…weeks…”

“A bit harsh for some sweets.”

Suki managed a nod then buried herself deeper into her parka.

“What about you, Hot head? I know without a doubt you were an annoying child.”

Zuko didn’t respond.

“Hey.” Sokka shook his shoulder. “Stay with us, buddy.”

Sokka swore when he still didn’t wake up.

“Secret… tunnel…” Suki sang as she rocked back and forth. “Secret… tunnel…”

Sokka gripped his head as panic started to set in. He had to get his friends out of here! But how?! Sokka racked his brain. His eyes lit up as he remembered something Katara told him.

Humans were easily spooked.

~*~

Oktai sighed. He hated guarding the pit. Of course he had the bad luck of landing a full day’s shift on it. There was no point. No one ever escaped. He was only there for decoration.

Banging sounded against the ice sheet covering the entrance.

“IT’S COMING!!! LET US OUT! PLEASE!”

Oktai tsked. The delusions were the worst part.

“Not yet. You got 8 more hours till-”

“OH TUI IT’S HERE! STAY BACK! STAY BACK!!!”

He heard horrible screaming and growling. Oktai was flung back as the ice sheet shattered. Oktai recomposed himself and rose his spear to attack but paused. His blood immediately went cold. Before him was a terrible spirit. It looked like an unnatural fusion of a human and tuna-shark, both sides unfinished and too large for this world. It roared revealing rows and rows of sharp teeth.

Oktai ran.

He had to warn the Chief, the shaman, the councilmen, everyone!

The North was cursed!!!

Chapter Text

Yue ran her finger along the Kyoshi Warrior fan Suki gave her earlier as her heart raced. She knew was being ridiculous. She had traveled across the world multiple times, been a pirate for over a year, raided ships and fought off other raiders, survived a shipwreck, and liberated a Fire Nation prison camp. She had absolutely no reason to be afraid anymore.

But she was.

And she hated herself for it.

Yue thought about her friends and how readily they defended her. Not because she was a princess or spirit touched but because they genuinely cared for her. Yue swallowed hard. She had to be brave, not just for herself, but for them and the safety of the world. Yue slipped the fan into her sleeve then knocked.

“Chief Hahn. You requested me?”

When he didn’t answer, she opened the private room’s door. Hahn stopped pacing abruptly and glared at her.

“Took you long enough.” He slammed the door behind her. “Do you have any idea how difficult you’re making things?!”

“What are you-“

Hahn held up his finger and shushed her like she was a child. “You listen when I speak."

Yue bit her lip.

“Ever since you dragged those things here, all everyone is talking about is that the North is cursed! Even the shaman now says there is more spirit energy than normal!” Hahn raved. “Is he right, Princess?”

“Yes. Both Sokka and Katara are merfolk.”

Hahn kicked over a table and swore.

“They are peaceful.”

“Tell that to the solider who ran through the streets crying like a little girl!”

“Why were my companions in the pit? You said they were going to the dungeons. The pit is only for the most heinous of crimes.”

“Attacking me is a heinous crime!”

Yue pursed her lips. “We should tell the people the truth to ease their fears. Have Sokka swim through the canal in merman form to reassure-”

“There you go again. Acting like you have a say in things!” Hahn threw his hands up in frustration. "That's why you hooked up with that fish peasant, isn't it?!"

"I-"

“What happened to the quiet obedient princess so eager to please? What happened to us???”

Yue dropped her gaze.

Hahn sighed then held her hand. “I will give you one last chance. Come back to me, and I’ll act like this whole 'running away to find myself' nonsense never happened.”

Yue’s heart thundered in her chest.

“It is the best option, Princess. Everything will go back to normal.”

“N-No.”

“What?”

“No.” Yue said firmer and yanked her hand out of his. “I won’t.”

“You selfish wretch.” Hahn glowered. “I offered my forgiveness and a second chance. But instead, you want to whore around with lowlifes! Ignorant girl!"

Hahn raised a hand to strike her face. Yue used the fan to divert his arm then used the momentum to pin him against the wall.

“Don’t ever touch me again.” she hissed.

“W-Who are you?” Hahn asked shakily.

“Do I make myself clear?!” Yue twisted his arm.

“Yes! Yes! Let go!!!”

Yue let him go then quickly backed to the door with the fan still raised. Hahn snarled at her before he smoothed over is expression.

“Oh Princess. Your father would be greatly disappointed in what you’ve become.”

Yue’s eyes became glassy.

“What's wrong?” Hahn smirked. “Was it something I said?”

Tears poured down as Yue ran to her chambers. Hahn always brought up her father when his other methods didn’t work.

Spirits, she hated him.

"Why Father?" Yue croaked. "Why did you leave me with him?"

As usual, her questions went unanswered. Surely if Chief Arnook was still alive, he wouldn't stand for this. But to be honest, Yue wasn't completely certain.

Yue brush against the smooth sapphire stone on the necklace Sokka gave her. Despite the pain, she smiled at the memory. Yue wiped her face and steel herself once more. There was still work that needed to be done.

~*~

Katara was out of breath by the time she reached the main healing hut. A shadow passed over her before Aang dropped down from his glider. He too was breathing hard, having taken off during night training. No doubt Master Pakku would have his head on an icicle in the morning. He’ll have to deal with that later.

“Let us in!” Katara demanded to the guards stationed at the entrance.

“We are under orders to not let anyone-“

“Move.” Katara said lowly. “Or you will be moved.”

The guards shared a nervous glance before stepping aside. Aang thanked them then followed Katara inside. They sprinted down the halls, frantically checking each room before finally finding the right one. The two practically jumped onto Sokka and Suki. One of the healers scolded them for being too rough. They all broke out into laughter after she left.

"We were so worried about you guys!” Aang said.

Katara looked around the room and saw Zuko sleeping soundly on the pallet nearby.

“Golden Eyes?” She felt his forehead. “Why isn’t he waking up?”

“Firebenders don’t do well in extreme cold.” Suki answered. "The healers are still working on him."

"Don't worry, Katara. Zuko's pretty tough. He'll pull through." Aang reassured her.

Katara hummed while she ran her fingers along his chi paths. His skin was freezing and his sun was low. Katara swallowed thickly as she remembered when she first found him sinking in the ocean with his face full of fresh wounds. Like that night, all she could do was wait for him to wake up.

Aang kept the conversation going. “Some of the kids at training said no one has ever survived the pit because it’s haunted.”

“There were definitely disturbing things going on down there.” Suki shivered, remembering the bodies. “I don’t remember how we got out. But Tulok here brought us to the healers.”

She referred to the quiet man standing from a respectful distance. Katara and Aang didn’t even notice him at first. Katara rushed over and gave him a hug.

“Thank you Gentle Soul. They’re alive because of you.”

Tulok let out a small smile and patted her back.

“I heard an evil spirt crawled out of the pit.” Aang said slowly as he connected the dots. “Wait a second, did you…”

Aang glanced at Sokka who looked completely drained. Katara inspected his arm more closely this time. His skin was incredibly dry and flaking. Katara's heart dropped. The same thing happened to her in the Fire Nation Fort. Katara pulled him aside so the others couldn't hear the panic rising up in her voice.

“You need to get back to the ocean.”

“Already tried." Sokka whispered shakily. "Guards are everywhere.”

She bowed her head. "I'm so sorry. It is all my fault you can't return home. And now you might... If I had not..."

"Katara, stop." Sokka said gently. "Leaving the tribe was my decision. So please stop blaming yourself."

The siblings embraced. "I will fix everything." Katara said quietly. "I promise."

Yue walked in and let out a sigh of relief.

"Thank Tui you all are alright!" She hugged Suki and Aang then checked on Zuko. "I'm so sorry. You were supposed to go to the dungeon, not the pit. The pit is a death sentence."

"So someone is trying to get rid of us." Suki tapped her chin. "I think we already know who."

“Silver Moon, we need to get Sokka to the ocean before he dries out.”

Yue glanced at the door then nodded.

“I’ll take him.” Yue put Sokka’s arm around her. “If we time it up right, we can make it before-“

“Before what?” Hahn marched in with a squad of guards. “I arrive and spoil your little escape plan?”

Everyone except Aang shot death glares at him.

“Glare all you want." Hahn chuckled. "I’m not afraid of you.”

“That’s because you’re not very smart, human.” Sokka said lowly.

“Now that we’re all here, maybe we can try talking things out again.” Aang suggested, trying to keep the peace. “Chief Hahn, we only want to help.”

“Avatar, the North has been untouched by war for 70 years. We don’t need you or your friends 'help' to remain that way.”

“It will not last.” Suki said. “Isolating yourself from the world will only make you weaker.”

“Furthermore,” Hahn ignored her. “As threats to the peace of this tribe, you will be under constant surveillance starting now. The second the Avatar’s waterbending training is complete, you’re all banished.”

“Chief Hahn-“

“Including you, former princess.” Hahn sneered. “You should have taken up my offer when you had the chance.”

“Fine.” Yue spat. “But Sokka needs to go to the canals to-”

“I know what you're doing and it's not going to work." Hahn interrupted. "And what part of constant surveillance don't you understand?!"

“I’ll escort them.” Tulok spoke up.

“This is a job for the royal guards."

“Chief Hahn, Master Tulok was the one who investigated the pit and brought the prisoners safely back.” a guard said. “Isn’t he more equipped for the job?”

Hahn tsked knowing he was right.

“If I hear any rumors of evil spirits haunting the canals, I’ll have you executed.” Hahn glowered at Sokka. "Don't make me regret my kindness."

"Of course not. Chief."

Hahn scowled at him then stormed out.

~*~

The ride to the nearest canal was filled with tensed silence. Yue was thinking of a reasonable excuse for her and Sokka to continue alone when Tulok spoke.

“Miska does not care for the ocean at night.” he stroked the Musk ox – horse’s neck. “I’m going to take her further up the path before she spooks.”

“Thank you, Master Tulok.”

He nodded before riding off. Yue put Sokka’s arm around her and helped him down the slope.

“Yue, about what happened at the meeting.”

“I’m sorry. I know that wasn’t your intension when you gave me the necklace, but I had to act fast." Yue swallowed. "Chief Hahn has already stripped my title. If you don’t want to…”

“No!" Sokka said quickly. "I mean, I get why you did it and I'm not mad at you.”

"So you still want to pretend we're married?"

Sokka nodded. "Something worse may happen to you if Hahn finds out you lied." he growled. "That bastard. I wanted to kill him so badly."

“I know right.” Yue sighed. “Just please don’t mangle Hahn to death just yet.”

“I’ll try but no promises.”

Yue let go as Sokka waded further into the freezing saltwater. Already, his skin was starting to regenerate. Sokka turned and grabbed Yue's hand.

“I do promise by La's ocean to be the best husband you ever had.”

Yue smiled sweetly. "And I promise by Tui's sky to be the best wife you ever had." She took his other hand. "Till death do us part."

Sokka squeezed her hands and leaned closer. "I won't let that happen, Princess."

Yue flushed. "I'm not a princess anymore."

"You are to me." he said softly.

They shared a soft gentle kiss under the moonlight.

Chapter Text

“Wake up.”

Zuko stirred causing the hammock to rock gently. He was so tired.

“Get up Prince Zuko. You’re going to be late.”

“Late for what?” Zuko muttered. Was the Painted Lady scheduled to go the mainland today? Annoyed, Zuko grumbled and cracked open his eyes. He froze when he saw who was leaning over him. Ozai smiled.

“The Agni Kai.”

Zuko jolted and flipped out of the hammock. He landed on his hands and knees against smooth marble tile. The entire arena was consumed by flames.

“They’re all dead because of you.” Ozai’s voice echoed all around him.

Figures appeared in the flames burning alive. The 41st division he failed to protect. The Painted Lady’s crew. Countless villagers.

Zuko’s heart pounded wildly.

“If you didn’t behave like a coward, they would still be alive.” Ozai slowly approached him.

Zuko gritted his teeth. “I am not backing down without a fight! I will avenge them and take you down!!!”

He tried to get up but his limbs were glued into the floor.

No, no, no! Not again!

Ozai laughed mockingly at him. “Rise and fight me, Prince Zuko.”

No matter how hard he pulled, he couldn’t move. In the crowd, Ursa gave him one last pitying look before putting up her hood and disappearing into the flames. The ghosts began to chant.

“COWARD!”

“COWARD!”

Zuko couldn’t breathe.

“You will learn respect.” Ozai loomed over him with a lit palm. “And suffering will be your teacher.”

“Father ple-“

Ozai grabbed Zuko’s face. He screamed in pure agony as he sank completely through the floor. Water quickly filled his lungs. The saltwater increased the pain in his face tenfold. A crown-princess hair piece floated above him. Zuko thrashed around screaming as the chains on his wrists dragged him down deeper.

“Golden Eyes.”

Zuko screamed and threw a line of fire as he backed up. He was on his feet in seconds. The world tilted and swayed as he gasped for air. There was more screaming. Something was burning. As his eyes adjusted, he saw scattered fires and someone several paces back covering their head.

Did he just…?

No. Agni please no.

He had to get out of there.

He jumped out the window ignoring his body’s protest. He heard people shouting at him as he ran. Zuko eventually collapsed on the snow and vomited.

“Golden Eyes!”

“Stay back!” Zuko scooted away.

“Your sun is still too low. Being out here will make your fever worse.”

Zuko gripped his hair as he rocked in place. He could still smell the burning flesh and hear their wails.

“It’s all my fault.” he whispered over and over.

“Golden Eyes, please let me help.”

Something thick draped around his shoulders as the person knelt down beside him.

“Katara?”

“I’m here. You’re safe.”

“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.”

“It’s okay.”

“No it’s not! Katara I burned you.” Zuko hung his head in shame. “That’s not okay!”

“But you didn’t. See.” Katara held out her hands, freed from any burns. “I was only startled. I did not expect you to wake up so soon.”

“I still almost…” Zuko slowly exhaled. He was so tired.

Katara wrapped the furs tighter around him and helped him up.

“Come, let’s go inside.”

The walk back drained what little energy Zuko had left. Two guards glared at them.

“What’s going on here?” one of them demanded. Zuko realized it was one of the voices shouting when he left the building.

“Just getting from fresh air.” Katara answered firmly. “Is that a problem?”

“You do realize we’ll have to report this to Chief Hahn.”

“Send him my regards.” Katara said coldly before pushing past them.

“What’s going on? Where are we?” Zuko asked while she got him back to the pallet.

“Master Yagoda’s house. We have been staying here ever since that foul excuse of a chief kicked us out of the palace. You fell ill during that time and have been asleep for days.” Katara tighten her fists then shook her head. “I was so worried.”

Zuko pulled the furs closer as he processed the information. It sounded right but it was hard to think with his splitting headache.

“Get some rest. I will get Master Yagoda and the others in the morning.”

“I’m fine.” Zuko said sharply.

Though he was exhausted, he didn’t want to go back to sleep after that dream. Katara studied him carefully.

“Do you want to talk about it?”

Zuko sighed deeply. “I dreamt about the Agni Kai against my father.”

Katara tensed, remembering when Zuko told her how he received his scar and why he was hunted by the other humans. Righteous anger boiled up, but Katara swallowed it back down and nodded for Zuko to continue.

“It wasn’t only him there this time, but everyone who’s life I’ve ruined. They urged me to avenge them, but… I-I couldn’t move. They called me a coward, then Father… he…” Zuko brushed against his scar. More bile caught in his throat. “I deserved it.”

Katara laid a hand on his knee. “No you don’t. Your father is cruel and horrible man. None of this is your fault.”

“If I didn’t run away then…”

“Golden Eyes. Look at me.” Katara cupped both sides of his face, still warm from the fever. “If you didn’t run away then I never would have met you. And you wouldn’t have inspired me to question the rules and aid humanity. Then I never would have freed Little Arrow who has the power to end the war.”

Zuko stared at her speechless.

“Things happen for a reason. But no matter what, we can’t lose hope even when it hurts. So when life gets hard…”

Zuko felt a smile tug at his lips. “Take a bite out of the silver sandwich.”

“Exactly.” She pulled him into a hug.

“Thank you, Katara.”

It took all of his strength to wrap his arms around her. Now that the adrenaline had worn off, he was quickly losing consciousness. His brain became foggy as the world blurred together.

“You’re amazing.”

Katara laughed lightly. “You are still high from the fever.”

“I mean it.”

Katara glanced away. She did not feel amazing especially after the past few days of being watched at all times and mocked for no longer being a mermaid. Very few people knew of Sokka’s true form but news of hers had already spread. Something told her if they did know, not much would change. Katara shoved the thought away and gently laid Zuko down on the pallet.

“Rest now.” She placed a hand against his scar.

Zuko laid his hand over hers and planted a kiss on it.

“Spirits, I love you…”

Katara’s cheeks heated up. “W-What?”

Zuko was already asleep.

“Oh.” Katara’s shoulders shagged. “It was just the fever talking.”

She laid down beside him, heart still fluttering, and hands still intertwine. Zuko intrigued her ever since he woke up in the cave with the sun in his eyes. Since then, they had only grown closer. And now…

No. It would never work.

She had to return to her mermaid form, and he had the kingdom of fire to rule. But for now, she was grateful for the time they had together. Katara gently kissed his hand.

“Goodnight, Golden Eyes.”

Chapter Text

After an early morning healing session, Yagoda deemed Zuko well enough no longer need bedrest. Zuko was glad to see his friends again and they were just as thrilled and relieved, though he did notice Katara being quieter than usual. Over a breakfast of fresh fish and Akutaq, they caught him up on what happened while he was sick.

While Aang and Katara worked on waterbending training, the others have been spending their time in the communities outside the capitol mostly helping wherever they could. Apparently, Hahn had been pouring resources only into the inner city. Zuko wasn’t surprised in the slightest. Some things never changed. After breakfast, Aang rushed to training, late once again, while he and Yue scrubbed the dishes clean and Katara and Suki packed away the sleeping furs.

“Feels like old times again.” Yue mused. They were often stuck on kitchen duty together on The Painted Lady.

“A lot has changed since then.” Zuko said solemnly.

Yue flicked water at him.

“Hey!”

“That’s what you get for bringing the mood down.”

“I was only saying a lot has changed since then. Change can be good sometimes.”

“Yes, it can.” Yue touched her necklace and smiled. “Sokka’s returning this evening.”

Zuko rolled his eyes affectionally. “Really Yue?”

“He’s very sweet.”

“Only to you.”

Yue laughed lightly. “Merfolk are fierce but spirits, they make great lovers.”

She looked at Katara laughing at something Suki said then raised her brows at Zuko. He cleared his throat and returned to the dishes while ignoring the heat creeping up his cheeks. Yue smiled and shook her head.

“Fair warning, I’m a lot nicer than Suki. So, you better get a move on before she grows impatient with this little game you two are playing.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Zuko grumbled.

Yue flicked more water at him.

~*~

Zuko walked Katara to training. He tried his best to ignore the harsh stares and outright gawking thrown their way. Yagoda left earlier to check up on some expecting mothers and Suki ditched them with some half-baked excuse of wanting to see different icicles. Zuko knew what she was really up to. It was fine though, he always relished alone time with Katara. They walked arm in arm with Katara mostly leaning on him for support. Her seaweed wraps were losing saltwater and Sokka was supposed to be bringing more.

“Why don’t you dip your feet in the canal?” Zuko asked.

“I am not allowed.” She glared at the guards trailing not too far behind.

Right. The rules.

“Hahn’s a spineless jerk.” Zuko hissed. “Oh, I didn’t get a chance at breakfast to ask how your combat training is going.”

Katara frowned. “Girls are only trained in healing.”

“What?!”

“Little Arrow tried to teach me what he has learned. Pakku caught us and refused to teach him until I apologized.”

“You didn’t.”

“Of course not! I challenged that sour old man to a water duel.”

Zuko scoffed. “What idiot would water duel a mermaid?”

“Pakku does not believe I am a mermaid.” Katara scowled. “But he accepted challenge and won unfortunately.” She flushed with anger as she recalled the match. She had still not mastered the basics resulting in a quick and humiliating lost which Pakku was always swift to remind her of. “He did agree to resume teaching Little Arrow as long as I stayed far away from combat training.”

“What in Koh’s lair?!”

“I’m going to get stronger and challenge him to a rematch by the end of winter. He won’t stop me.” Katara said determinedly. “But it is hard to train in the city with guards everywhere.”

As they passed by a waterfall, Zuko leaned in close so the guards couldn’t hear.

“What about the ice fields outside the walls?”

Katara twirled a strand of hair as she thought. “That could work. But we need to leave the guards behind.”

“Follow my lead.”

Zuko groaned then stumbled to the ground while breathing heavily.

“Golden Eyes!” Katara tightened her grip on his arm.

“I-I don’t feel well. I need to lay down.”

She turned to the guards. “Please help him!”

A guard grunted annoyedly then tossed Zuko over his shoulder.

“Careful!” Katara scolded.

The guards escorted them back to Master Yagoda’s house since it was closer than the healing huts. One unlucky guard stayed behind to watch over the front while the others wandered off. Zuko thought they learned their lesson after the pit incident.

“What now?” Katara asked.

“We sneak out.”

He held Katara’s hand as they crept out the back. Katara covered their snow tracks with her bending until they were far enough. Zuko found an unattended wooden dinghy and pushed it into a canal. Katara vibrated with excitement.

“We’re using a boat!”

“Sure are.” Zuko couldn’t help but smile as he helped her on.

There was an umbrella left on board. Zuko opened it and gave it to Katara to hide her face from onlookers. He pulled up his hood then used the long oar to push off. It was a bit unsteady at first until Zuko got the hang of the unfamiliar boat. It was smooth sailing from then on. Katara couldn’t stop smiling.

“This is incredible!”

“Only the best for you.”

It was such a nice day despite the low sunlight and freezing temperature. Zuko wished he could spend the whole day sailing around the city with Katara. They arrived at the canal’s mouth much too soon. After hiding the dinghy, Katara bended a cracked through the wall big enough to slip through. Katara immediately dipped her feet in the saltwater, sighing contently.

“Thank you, Golden Eyes.”

“It was my honor.”

Once her feet stopped aching, Katara began running through the kata Aang taught her before Pakku interrupted while Zuko scouted around. Their position made it impossible for any look out towers to spot and had plenty of access to both water and ice. It was perfect.

He returned to watch Katara train. She streamed the water around her, thrilled that she finally cracked levitation, before stumbling over her feet and dropping the water.

“Ugh! Stupid feet!” Katara growled in frustration and cracked the ice.

“Maybe I can help.”

“You know human waterbending?”

“No but uncle once told me that all bending is connected. Maybe learning some firebending katas would help your footwork.”

“At this point, I’m willing to try anything.”

Zuko taught her the basic forms, mainly focusing on breathing and maintaining roots. Katara was a fast learner and memorized the forms by the end of the day. Zuko was briefly reminded of Azula mastering katas like second nature when they were children. A sharp pain pricked his heart as he wondered what became of his sister. Zuko shoved it down as he joined Katara at the edge of the ice soaking her feet. It was a successful day and he did not want to ruin it with his family’s drama.

“Did you really mean what you said last night?” Katara whispered as she stared longingly at the open water. “Right before you went back to sleep.”

“I don't remember.” Zuko frowned. “What did I say?”

“Oh, uh nothing. Forget it.”

Guilt flooded Zuko. “If I hurt you, Katara, I truly am sorry.”

“You did not hurt me.” Katara tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. “Quite the opposite actually.”

Zuko’s heartrate skyrocketed.

“…That’s good.”

Katara deflated and looked away. “It’s getting late. We better head back and try again earlier tomorrow.”

“Katara-“

“Don’t worry. It’s fine.”

She stood and walked towards the wall. Zuko caught her hand.

“Katara wait! I don’t know what I said but if it made you happy, then I meant every word.”

She hesitated a moment, pondering what to say before speaking again.

“You kissed my hand then said you loved me.”

Shock spread across Zuko's features.

Katara turn her head to hide her embarrassment and forced out a chuckle. “You were very sick.”

“I do.” Zuko rasped.

"You don't have to say that to make me feel better."

“You’re the most amazing person I’ve ever met and my best friend. Of course I love you.”

Katara’s mouth dropped as she looked at him with an unreadable expression. Zuko swallowed thickly.

“I understand if you don’t feel the same-“

He was cut off by Katara pulling him into a kiss. Hasty and messy but tenderly sweet and over far too quickly.

“Katara…” Zuko whispered, still in a daze.

“I’ve always loved you, Golden Eyes.” Katara breathed. Tears rolled down her cheeks. “...But we can’t.”

Zuko’s heart plummeted. He barely managed out a simple why.

“Because, it’s never work. We’re from two different worlds. Even if I never transform back into…” She trailed off, unable to finish the sentence. “You have the kingdom of fire to rule and…”

Zuko gently wiped her tears. “Human or mermaid, I would give up my throne for you without hesitation.”

“That’s just it. How would the war end and world stay peaceful without you on the throne?”

“We’ll think of something. Uncle could rule, or we’d do away with the monarchy all together.”

Katara shook her head, unconvinced.

“Katara, you’re the best thing to ever happen to me. I don’t want to lose you.”

She cupped his scar. “I don’t want to lose you either.”

“We can take things slowly. At whatever pace you want.”

Katara leaned in closer, until their lips were nearly brushing. She knew they were both tempting fate, but she wanted so badly to see where it goes.

“Glacier’s pace.”

They kissed again, lingering much longer.

Chapter Text

As the winter drew on, Zuko thought he and Katara did a fairly decent job of keeping their blooming relationship under wraps until Sokka confronted him with the stereotypical “Don’t hurt my little sister” talk. A year ago, Zuko would have been horrified if a giant merman threatened to drown him if he messed up. Instead Zuko threaten to do worse to Sokka if he hurt Yue. The two spent then the rest of the evening gushing about how amazing their partners were.

Soon it was time for the waterbending final exams. Between secretly helping Katara train, avoiding Chief Hahn’s guards, and dealing with his friends’ overall shenanigans, Zuko barely register the passage of time.

The students were given a day off to rest before the exam. Aang took Sokka and Zuko otter-penguin sledding while the girls spent the day at the public hot springs. Zuko rather had gone there but it was one of the few women only places in the North. Admittedly, Aang’s idea was fun even if the otter-penguins were too wary of Sokka to let him get close, so they ended up doing more otter-penguin chasing than actual sledding.

That evening, Yagoda made a big feast for them and talked about how wonderful it was to have children in her home again. The next day, the bags were packed, and Appa strapped up ready to go. Chief Hahn dropped by personally with a squad of guards to make sure of it. He sneered at Yue and Sokka linked up together but said nothing of it. The group, including Yagoda, made their way to the arena.

“I’m not going to miss this.” Zuko muttered as he watched a group of curious onlookers watching their every move.

Katara laughed lightly. “I thought you’d be used to it by now.”

Zuko grunted. Even when he lived in the palace as a prince, he never received this much attention.

“My feet aren’t sore anymore.” Katara changed the subject. “They haven’t been in a while.”

Zuko was quiet as he thought. Katara had been feeling the cold more and needed less and less saltwater.

"Do you think it's permanent?"

Katara nodded sadly. “I miss the ocean terribly. But at least I can join you three in the Earth Kingdom.”

“Is that what you want?”

The original plan was for Yue and the siblings travel along the coast gathering allies while he, Aang, and Suki go to the Earth Kingdom to look for an earthbender master.

“I’m really going to miss Sokka and Silver Moon.” Katara sighed deeply. “But a part of me is also glad.”

Zuko kissed the top of her head. “We’ll tell the others after Aang’s final.”

Katara squeezed his hand affectionally, sending flutters into his stomach.

“Well, if it isn’t the little mermaid.” Pakku said condescendingly as they approached the entrance.

“Pakku.” Katara returned icily.

He looked at her and Zuko’s linked hands and tsked. “Unnatural.”

“What do you want, you pompous prick?!” Zuko hissed.

“To grade my students without any grand shows or interruptions. Think you can manage that without demanding another duel?”

Katara narrowed her eyes at him. Though her waterbending and footwork had greatly improved over the winter, she was still not prepared to fight a master yet.

“I will master waterbending. And when I do, I’ll come back and defeat you in a water duel. So you better prepare yourself.” She said lowly.

“Stubborn girl. Let’s pray you’ll have a better attitude by then.” Pakku chided then walked off.

“Pray I don’t decapitate you where you stand!” Katara spat causing Pakku to flinch slightly.

Zuko smirked to himself as he led Katara to their seats beside their friends. He was about to make a sarcastic comment about Pakku when black snow started to fall.

“There were no clouds in the sky. Where is it coming from?” Suki asked.

The crowd began to mummer. Zuko pressed a snowflake against his tongue.

“It’s ash.” His eyes widened. “The Fire Navy is here!!!”

Seconds later, the warning gong sounded followed by a large fiery ball striking the ice wall. It wasn’t enough to completely damage it, but several chunks fell off.

Full chaos broke out.

“They’re trying to breech the wall!” Yue gasped.

“I’ll hold off the navy. The rest of you get to safety!” Sokka yelled.

“Not without me!” Aang said and took off with Appa not too far behind him.

The gang scarcely got a chance to respond before another blast hit the wall. Sokka pushed pass the fleeing crowd and dove into the canal. He did not have time to be discreet. A bright light shone from under the water, startling the remaining people. They watched in horror as a large tuna-shark fin scrapped along the walls before diving under the ice wall.

Yue got onto the horn. “Do not be alarmed! This is no curse but a blessing! The merfolk are here to help defend us from the Fire Nation!”

Gasps filled the arena.

Pakku glanced at the canal in disbelief. How could this be true? Yet, he saw the boy transform with his own eyes. He then looked at Katara who was rushing towards Yue. A lump formed in his throat.

"Master Pakku." Tulok snapped him back to reality.

"Take a squad and repair the walls. I'll round up every male 16 and older and get them dressed for battle."

Tulok nodded then took off.

Yue jumped off the platform and met up her friends.

"Zhao’s behind this no doubt!” Zuko yelled. "We have to stop him!"

“First, we have to help the people escape!” Suki said. "Sokka and Aang will handle the ships."

Before they could move, spears were pointed at them from all sides. Momo arched his back and hissed.

“What are you doing?!” Katara demanded.

“By order of Chief Hahn, you’re all under arrest for treason.”

~*~

Hahn paced back and forth as the council members argued. The North was woefully underprepared for such an attack. Nothing was supposed to be able to penetrate the ice walls, but the canons were destroying it faster than the benders could repair. Also, their ice ships were no match for the great metal ones the Fire Nation bore.

“Chief Hahn, we brought the prisoners.”

"Finally!" He stood and glared at the ex-princess and her companions. “Traitors. All of you.”

“We warned you about the attack, but you refused to listen!” Suki shot back.

“If you hadn't come here in the first place, none of this would have happened!” Hahn hissed. "I told you the consequences of disturbing the peace. Now you must pay for it!" He paused, realizing someone was missing. “Yue, where is your peasant husband?”

“Out defending the tribe.” Yue said firmly. She glanced at Katara who nodded. “No more secrets. Council of the Northern Water Tribe, Tui and La has spared our sister tribe by turning them into merfolk. They are here now to help defend us from the Fire Nation.”

A stunned silence filled the room. They had heard about the reports and rumors. Some saw Sokka transformed themselves.

Hahn laughed harshly.

“How absurd.”

Tulok rushed in, wide eyed and on edge. More tension filled the room. Whatever shook the seasoned warrior was nothing to be taken lightly.

“Chief, you need to see this.”

Hahn narrowed his eyes at the group before following. The council and the gaang followed as well. Before them was something straight out of a spirit tale. Iron ship after ship were being taken down by a massive sea creature.

Hahn blanched.

“Chief Hahn, what are you orders? Do we aid the merfolk and the Avatar?”

“What about the civilians?”

Hahn couldn’t think. The rumors were true. That means...

“Hold the bending soldiers on reserve until nightfall when they’re more powerful. The nonbenders will secure the perimeter and help evacuate the city. General Ikiaq, take a squad to guard the benders while they repair the wall.” Yue ordered.

Everyone hesitated, too surprised to move.

“You heard Lady Yue.” Tulok spoke up. “Go!”

The soldiers saluted before rushing to their assignments.

“I will organize the healers and help protect the vulnerable.” Katara said.

“I’ll come too; in case the Fire Nation soldiers make it pass the wall.” Zuko added.

Yue nodded firmly as they ran out.

“In the meantime, Suki and I will draw up a strategy for nightfall to take out the remaining fleet.”

“We’ll need maps of the surrounding area.” Suki pointed out.

“Councilman Genghis, may we borrow your study?”

“O-Of course, absolutely Lady Yue.”

“Thank you. Guard, bring the shaman to send forth the wartime prayers.”

Hahn gawked as the guard ran off. “Wait-“

“We all have our roles. Let’s move!”

“STOP!” Hahn barked. “Are you going to listen to her just like that?! She’s not even in a princess anymore!”

“Chief Hahn, we are all open to any ideas you may have.” Yue said matter-of-factly.

Hahn flushed and looked away, defeated. While everyone sprung to action, he remained on the balcony alone. Hahn glared at the horizon where Sokka was destroying the ships. He knew that harlot and fish peasant were going to make a move for his throne. Using the invasion as an excuse was despicable. Their ash-maker must have organized the attack so they could usurp the throne! Hahn tightened his fists.

He wasn’t going let them get away with it.

~*~

Sokka reached the first line of ships in no time. He didn’t have the storm manipulation like his sister but that didn’t mean he couldn’t create waves with basic physics. Sokka sent in the first round to disorient the crew before dragging the ship under. Fire balls were launched but then turned upward. Sokka soon saw why.

“Aang get out of here! It’s too dangerous!”

“No way! You’re not doing this alone!” Aang yelled then redirected a blast with his airbending.

Sokka gritted his teeth. There was no other option. While Aang and Appa drew fire, Sokka set to work taking out the ships. There were hundreds of them. Even with their combined efforts, it was still going to take a while.

Something sharp pierced Sokka’s tail. The pain was immediate and spread all through him. Sokka looked down and saw it were several harpoons. Something that simple wasn’t supposed to hurt that badly, unless… Sokka’s eyes widen.

“Aang, fall back!”

Aang didn’t need to be told twice. He and Appa were exhausted and didn’t know how much longer they could keep up the counterattack. The trail of seafoam green liquids Sokka left behind him didn’t look good either. The Fire Navy mounted an attack at their retreating forms. Appa shielded Aang from a fire blast at the last second. The hit knocked the sky bison into the water.

“APPA!” Aang cried.

Sokka scooped him up. “I gotcha Fur-face.”

It took all of his strength for Sokka to make it to shore before his tail completely cramped up. Appa moaned lowly and worriedly nudged Sokka's face. Aang immediately rushed to their side.

“Get… Katara…”

~*~

There were very few moments in Katara’s life when she felt absolutely terrified. Seeing her brother beached and writhing in pain was one of them. She ran up to him as soon as Aang sat her down from his glider. Seeing Sokka from this angle was dizzying and overwhelming. Katara now knew why humans reacted to the merfolk the way they did. But she didn't have time to dwell on that now.

"I'm here Sokka. What's wrong?!"

“Tail... poison...” Sokka rasped.

Katara rushed to his side. Half of his tail was still in the ocean. Blood was leaking out and mixing with the surf.

"I need you to lift your tail onto the ice!"

He grunted in response. Out of sheer willpower, Sokka raised his tail slightly out of the water. The end was littered with harpoons. Sokka cried out in pain and clawed at the ice, freighting the already on edge soldiers securing the area. Katara grounded herself and bended the water to carry Sokka's tail onto the ice. She then climbed on top tried to pull one of the harpoons out. Sokka hissed and jolted, nearly knocking Katara off.

“Sokka, hold still!”

She opted to bend the poison out instead. Katara ran her hands along looking for the source. The poison ran along Sokka’s veins. Katara streamed it out, but it was slow going. What little she got out came in a small trickle. Her head began to pound, and she had to stop every couple of moments to bend water onto Sokka's gills all while the Fire Navy continued to launch firebombs. Every hit shook the ground and sprayed them with tiny ice shards and ash.

“Tell that La drown beast to get back to protecting us!” one of the soldiers screamed.

“Didn’t you claim to be merfolk too? Let the healers treat your brother. Transform and fight!”

“Save us, mermaid!!!”

“SILENCE ALL OF YOU!” Katara yelled.

Panic rose up. She knew she couldn't heal Sokka all on her own in time. Sokka squirmed again when a firebomb landed close by. Katara lost her balance and fell hard. Her headache worsened and arms felt weak. Appa whimpered as he helped her up with his nose. Katara didn’t even notice he was there when she first arrived. There was also a burn wound on his side.

“Oh Appa…” Katara rubbed his cheek as tears fell.

It was too much. She couldn’t save them all.

~*~

Suki finished relaying the attack strategy to the soldiers. There were some who were not keen on the idea of a foreigner, and a woman no less, having such a major role in the ranks but they were overruled. Survival was more important than maintaining ancient traditions. Suki joined Yue and Momo at the window. It was already dusk and hard to see out. But thankfully, the firebombs had stopped.

“They’re okay. The plan’s going to work.”

Yue touched her necklace, a habit now turned into a nervous tick. “I hope so.”

Suki placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “I’m really proud of you, Yue. That took guts.”

Momo purred in agreement. Yue rubbed his chin.

“I learned from the best.” She said with strained smile.

Suki shook her head. “Strategy was never my strong point. That was all you.”

Yue slowly exhaled. Maybe they’ll pull this off after all.

A solider, scarcely past the recruitment age, busted through the doors out of breath.

“Urgent news from the front lines! The merman has been gravely injured during battle!”

Shock filled the room.

“What?!” Yue croaked. She crossed the room and was already halfway out the door. “I have to help him!”

Suki was right behind her, equally worried. “I’m coming too.”

A shadow swooped over them as soon as they left the palace. Aang dropped down panicked.

“It’s Sokka!”

“We know. We just heard.” Suki said.

“Aang please take us to him!”

He reopened the glider and beckoned them to climb on.

“Hold on tight!”

Aang flew them back to the shore. They arrived just as Zuko rode in a musk-ox horse with Yagoda holding on tight behind him. Many other master healers came along too.

“Sokka!” Yue cried.

“My… princess…” He held up a finger which Yue immediately hugged.

"You're going to be okay! Just hold on."

"What are we working with?" Yagoda asked firmly, already in healer mode.

"Can't... move..."

Yagoda studied the black liquid leaking out. "Looks like paralyzing agent for used for hunting big game. We're going to need to extract it immediately." She waved over the hesitant and awestricken healers. "Let's get to work. Yue, keep him calm."

"Yes ma'am."

Zuko ran up to Suki and Aang.

“What happened?!” She asked them.

Aang swallowed thickly “I-I don't know! We were attacking the fleets then Sokka told us to retreat. He was bleeding real bad and then Appa got shot then..." He clutched his head.

Zuko put a hand on his shoulder. "Aang came to the healing huts to get Katara. He flew her back while I gathered the master healers." He looked at Sokka fighting to stay conscious as Yue spoke gently to him. Zuko's heart ached for his friend as he flashbacked to Zhao’s boasting about killing the merfolk. “I didn’t think Zhao could pull it off.”

“And he won’t. Master Yagoda and her team are the best healers in the world.” Suki said determinedly. "Let's help Yue keep him calm."

Zuko went to follow her but stopped when he noticed Aang slumping to the ground.

"Aang!" Zuko checked him over, but there were no physical injuries.

"I need to find Appa...”

Zuko scooped the tired boy up. "I got him.” he told Suki. She nodded before joining Yue's side.

Momo took off from Suki’s shoulders. Zuko followed him until they found Katara sitting on the snowbank with Appa. Yagoda shooed her out of the way while they worked on Sokka. Despite healing Appa wound, Katara looked utterly consumed with worry. Appa perked up upon seeing Aang. Katara jumped up too.

“My friends!”

She rested a hand on Aang's forehead.

"He just needs a break." Zuko laid him down on Appa. "Yue and Suki are helping Sokka while the healers work on him. How are you holding up?"

Katara sank to the ground and hugged herself. Wordlessly Zuko sat beside her and put an arm around her. He already knew what she was feeling. There was no greater agony than not being able to comfort a loved one in pain. Katara leaned against his chest. They sat in silence watched the slowly moon rise over the horizon.

~*~

Hahn read the message the falcon hawk brought in from the Fire Nation admiral. He proposed a ceasefire if the Avatar and Ex-Fire Prince were surrendered over to them. This was the break Hahn needed! Since the fish peasant went down without destroying most of the ships, it meant Yue’s plan failed. Now he’ll have a chance to save the day and keep control of power! Hahn called an emergency meeting of the council and war generals to relay his plan of giving up the fugitives in exchange for peace. It was quickly shot down.

“Chief Hahn, the Avatar is the world’s last hope to defeat the Fire Nation. We can’t turn him over to save ourselves. ”

“Yes, what guarantee we have that the Admiral would keep his word?”

“Lady Yue’s plan can still work!”

"Unbelievable!" Hahn fumed. “I don’t care what you say! I am your chief! We’re doing this my way!!!”

Disapproving stares were thrown at Hahn.

“In times of distress, a man’s true nature shows.” the shaman shook his head.

“Speak clearly! Now is not the time for riddles!” Hahn spat.

“He’s saying that your entitlement and poor leadership skills are of no use in war or anywhere else. And we have had enough of it.” Pakku said bluntly. “Clearly you’re not fit to reign as chief.”

The others agreed.

"Oh, like a woman and a cursed peasant are?"

"Though nonconventional, the tribe must do what it needs to in order to survive." Councilman Genghis said gravely. "That includes shifting leadership positions."

"What?"

The shaman tapped his staff on the ground. "Hahn, son of Qimmiq, by order of the Council of the Northern Water Tribe, you are hereby stripped of your title as chief. May Tui and La be my witness." He removed the Chief's white shawl from Hahn's shoulders.

“YOU CAN'T DO THIS TO ME!!!”

"Make no mistake Hahn. You did it to yourself." the shaman said firmly.

Hahn left the room enraged. Those fools! He’ll show them all!

~*~

Zhao chuckled darkly as he clutched the letter. The Chief’s plan worked perfectly. While the North's soldiers were busy with the empty decoy fleets he left behind, Zhao took a couple of ships and sailed to the blind spot of the wall. There, a man dressed in fancy furs greeted him.

“Thank you, Chief Hahn, for the tip.”

“Give me your word that you will cease fire. Only then will I show you were the Avatar and Fire Prince are.”

Zhao extended his hand in water tribe greeting. “You have my word.”

Hahn smirked and clasped his hand. As soon as he did, Zhao yanked him forward and stabbed Hahn’s chest. His eyes widen as blood gushed out.

“And my gratitude.” Zhao smirked as he twisted the knife. “Because of you, the Fire Nation will finally conquer the North.”

Zhao revel in the moment. The so call "chief" was no more than a boy playing dress up. No wonder the Northern water savages hid behind the ice wall. They were weak and will soon be wiped out like their Southern kin. Zhao casted Hahn’s impaled body aside then lit his palm.

“Brothers and sisters of Fire, the time has come to take what is rightfully ours.”

Chapter Text

Zuko remembered the war stories Iroh used to tell him as a child. About the quiet tension before a battle where it felt like the world itself held her breath. At that time, Zuko did not fully understand what his uncle meant. Now he does. The Fire Navy had been quiet too long.

A horrible battle cry echoed from inside the walls. Both Zuko and Katara were on their feet in seconds, prepared to charge blindly into the fight, when Appa moved in front of them.

“I know who can help defeat the Fire Nation.” Aang said with a firmness that was rare for the airbender.

His friends looked at him surprised.

“Who, Little Arrow?”

“While I was asleep, Avatar Roku told me there was an area with high spirit energy close by. If I could connect to the spirit world, I could ask Tui and La for help!” He turned to Yue. “Do you know where this place is?”

Yue snapped her fingers. “He must mean the Spirit Oasis! Few people know where it is.”

Yue glanced at Sokka who stirred slightly. Yagoda and her team had removed the paralyzing agent, but he still needed rest. She didn’t want to leave him defenseless. Yue gave them brief directions and they took off running. Before they could get pass the ice wall, a stream of Fire Nation soldiers came rushing in. Aang blew most of them away while the others picked off the stragglers.

“You two take Aang to the Spirit Oasis.” Suki ordered. “I’ll help the warriors hold off things here.”

As they left, Yue joined Suki and the remaining warriors waiting the new onslaught. Regardless of what would happen, they weren’t going down without a fight.

~*~

It was pure chaos.

The trio ran along the ice wall to avoid the crosshairs. Katara refroze the missing chunks while Zuko and Aang redirected any flames thrown their way. They finally made it to the far northern side of the wall where Yue told them to go. The shaman was already there with his face lifted towards the moon.

"Shaman!" Aang cried out. "We need to get to the Spirit Oasis!"

Without a word, he led them out the city to a large ice gate as screams echoed through the night. Inside was a completely different world. Lush green grass replaced the snow, and the temperature was warm, almost tropical. In the center of the garden was a waterfall pouring into a pond with crystal blue water. Two black and white koi fish mirrored each other exactly and swam in a perfect circle.

“Koi fish?” Katara asked.

“Great Elder Spirits, Tui and La.” The shaman bowed then pulled out the scared materials he brought along. “The koi fish are their forms in the natural realm.”

Katara was amazed. She never imagined the spirits themselves would be on earth. No wonder why the garden felt so alive. While Aang got into mediation position and Zuko secured the area, she edged closer to the pond. Something deep inside stirred.

“A piece of La still dwells in you, mermaid.” The shaman said quietly. “Perhaps he and Tui will show us favor after all.”

Katara placed a hand over her heart. The feeling was there, ever so faintly. She sat down beside Aang and held out her hands.

“Katara?”

“Let me help you. Maybe you’ll be able to reach the spirit world faster.”

Aang gave her a firm nod then joined hands. The shaman started muttering ancient prayers and chants as they mediated. Zuko nervously paced back and forth. Spirits were unpredictable and Elder Spirits were even more so. Ash, he barely knew anything about the Elder Spirit, Agni, his own nation served. Katara's startled gasp snapped him out of his thoughts. Zuko glanced back and saw Aang’s body was drained of color and almost gray. Katara waved a hand over his face, but he didn’t respond.

“Is that supposed to happen?!” Zuko asked while he rushed over.

“His spirit is gone.” The shaman said. “He must have opened a portal to the spirit world.”

“What do we do now?” Katara asked worriedly.

“I don’t know. There are so few records on Avatars’ journey to the spirit world" The shaman tried to remain calm, but there was no hiding the edge of panic in his voice. "All we can do is wait and guard his body.”

Zuko and Katara shared a concerned look.

All three of them jumped as the ice gate scrapped open. Two people in dark red cloaks walked in. Zuko cursed as Katara sprung up with water already coating her arms. She launched ice spears at the intruders. One of them threw up a fiery shield to melt the spears but Zuko was close behind with his swords drawn.

“Nephew! It's me!” The one who used the fire shield quickly removed his hood and raised his hands in surrender.

Zuko skidded to a stop.

“Uncle?!”

His jaw dropped as Iroh embraced him. “W-What are you doing here?!”

“It’s a long story, my dear nephew.” Iroh led him towards the gate’s entrance to stand guard. “But time is of the essence. Zhao's army will be here soon. We barely managed to escape and beat him here.”

“We?”

Iroh gestured to the other cloaked person.

“This is Grand Leader Kanna, Head of the Order of the White Lotus."

She removed the hood, revealing an elderly Water Tribe woman.

"Greeting Fire Prince. We've been following your journey with the Avatar closely and come to personally lend aid.”

The shaman looked at her like she was a spirit. “Kanna? Is really that you?”

“In the flesh, Night Owl-Cat. Good to see you survived Shaman Yutu’s training.”

Her eyes became glassy when she saw Katara.

“Oh my child… You have your father’s eyes.” Kanna cupped her face tenderly. “What is your name, precious one?”

Confusion flooded her, but she didn’t pull away. “Katara.”

“Katara…” Kanna repeated reverently.

“I’m sorry, do I know you?”

“No, you don’t.” Kanna sighed wearily though her smile remained. “But I’m your grandmother.”

Katara gapped at the woman in complete shock. “H-How? We’re not supposed to intermingle with humans!”

Kanna chuckled. “I never was a stickler for rules. Neither was your grandfather.”

A million questions filled Katara’s head. Before she could ask any of them, Kanna spoke again more urgently.

“We don’t have much time. How long have you been out of the water?”

“All winter.” Katara hung her head in shame. “I didn’t wrap my feet and now can’t transform back.”

Kanna tsked. “This isn’t good. We must hurry and restore your mermaid form.”

“You know the ritual?”

“Bits and pieces.” She guided Katara to a spot beside Aang. “Thankfully, the Avatar has already done the hard part of opening the portal. The rest should be straightforward.”

“Wait, Little Arrow's already there talking to Tui and La.”

Kanna shook her head. “The Avatar is inexperienced. It would take too long to convince the spirits to help save the North. Restoring your mermaid form is the only way. If we don’t act now, you’ll remain human forever.”

Katara hesitated. Of course she wanted to transform back, but she was also starting to accept her human form as permanent. What of her friends? What of Zuko? It was so much easier being with him this way. If Katara changed back, things will never be the same again. Zuko abandoned his post with Iroh and took her hand.

“Nothing could ever change my feeling for you, Katara. Whatever you decide, I fully support it.”

Katara swallowed thickly. In her heart, she knew what she had to do, no matter how badly it hurt.

“Thank you, Golden Eyes.” Katara cupped his scar as her eyes watered. “For everything.”

As they shared a brief kiss, fire balls flew overhead reminding everyone of the dire situation they were in. Katara let go of Zuko's hand then faced Kanna with a look of sheer determination.

“Let's do it.”

Chapter Text

The shaman and Kanna quickly prepped the materials. Iroh pulled Zuko back to give them room to work as Kanna drew Katara’s blood and mixed it into the concoction.

“Time works differently in the spirit world. The Avatar will act as your anchor. And if you come across the wolf spirit, Amarok, do not let him know you are alone, or he would consume your soul. Other spirits do not care how you travel.” Kanna instructed as she dipped her fingers in the concoction and drew a crescent moon on Katara's right hand. The mark of the brave. "For protection."

Kanna looked her in the eyes with a fierceness that went far beyond her many years. "There's no going back once the ritual begins."

Katara swallowed and glanced behind Kanna at the firebenders guarding the gate. Zuko gave her a reassuring nod.

"I'm ready, grandmother." Katara said firmly.

As the ritual began, her muscles locked up and her skin felt tingly. She exhaled sharply while her eyes rolled to the back of her head. She soon felt floaty. Katara stepped out of her body and gasped. She was transparent and shining. Her body remained in mediation position, but she still felt it. How was strange it was; being in two places at once.

To her left was a bright blue light. The spirit portal. Katara glanced back at her family and friends before steeling herself. This was their only hope. Katara took a deep breath and stepped through.

She was suddenly in a dense forest in late autumn. A thick mist blanketed the area giving it an even more ominous feel. Katara turned behind her and saw the spirit portal was still there at the base of a large tree that soar far past the canopy. Good. It would be easy to find again.

“Hello?! Little Arrow!” Katara called out. He had to be close by.

She tried to bend the mist away, but it didn’t budge. Everything was slightly distorted like a dream or the memory of a dream. Katara wasn’t sure how long she walked.

“Little Arrow! Where are you?!” Katara suddenly felt like she was being followed. She tried to form ice daggers, but the water didn’t come to her call. Her heart raced, realizing she was defenseless.

“You’re bending won’t work here, traveler.” a voice growled.

“Who are you? Show yourself!”

A huge silver wolf stepped out of the mist. It was at several heads taller than Katara and had icy blue eyes that were almost white. Katara stared at the creature in awe. This must be Amarok. She had never seen a wolf-bat in person since they were land creatures, but the Southern Merfolk still held the animal in high regards. This one was not like the descriptions. He had no wings or pale face. The creature seemed to be a breed of polar bear-dog mixed with wolf-bat features. It was difficult for Katara to wrap her head around.

He regarded Katara curiously as he circled her like prey. “It’s been some time, Shaman Anjij. I did not think you would return.”

“My name is Katara.”

“I see. A descendent of Shaman Anjij. Are you alone?”

Katara tensed, remembering her grandmother's warning.

"No spirit."

"There is no other human here." Amarok bared his teeth. "Are you trying to deceive me?"

"I did not say my companion was human.” Katara held up the marking on her hand. “My people’s spirits are with me. I am never alone.”

Amarok rumbled lowly. "Clever girl. Why are you in the spirit world before your time?"

"I have a request for the Ocean Spirit."

"Must be important for you to come all the way here."

Katara gave a firm nod. "Do you know where I can find him and the Avatar?"

“The Avatar is otherwise busy. The Face-stealer has set his eyes on him, and you do not want to go anywhere near there.”

“Oh no! Is he okay?!” Katara asked alarmed. “I must help him!”

“Let the Avatar fight his own battles.”

Katara shifted from foot to foot. She was beyond worried for Aang, but the wolf spirit was right. She had to complete the mission. There was no telling how much time had already passed in the natural realm.

“Besides, you do not need him to have audience with Elder La. I can take you to his domain myself.” the wolf sprit stopped circling and stared down at Katara. “For a price.”

Katara glared back. “Name it.”

“A story. Not a Water Tribe one. I’ve heard those thousands of times. Tell me something...different.”

Katara tuck her hair behind her ear as she thought. The only stories she knew were Water Tribe. She suddenly remembered one Zuko told her during their swims. A Fire Nation story called Love Amongst the Dragons.

“Very well, spirit. I will tell you a love story between a dragon emperor and a peasant human girl.”

The wolf’s ears perked up. He lowered himself to the ground and crossed his forelegs. Even laying down, he was at least a head taller than Katara.

“This I must hear.”

Katara sat down across from him and began the tale. The dragon emperor was transformed human by the blue spirit and live amongst the very beings he ruled over. There he learned many lessons from a girl called Savita, and eventually married her before returning back to his original form. Amarok listened with great intensity. It was a long story, but Katara felt like it took only a few minutes to tell. When she was done, Amarok dipped his head.

"A fair trade. I will now take you to Elder La, as promised."

~*~

Riding on the back of Amarok was exhilarating. He went faster and jumped farer than any natural creature ever could. Despite the speed, the run was endless. They have been traveling for days nonstop. Through the misty forest, over mountains, and across an impossibly wide tundra. Aurora lights shined overhead, brighter and more alive than ever before. Katara swore she saw faces in them. Deep down, she knew they were once alive in the natural realm. Katara prayed that her friends and family were safe wherever they were. At long last, they reached the sea.

“Elder La and Elder Tui resides beyond the wave." Amarok nodded towards the horizon where a tidal wave that flowed upward. "Since you bare their markings, you will be allowed to enter.”

Katara slid off Amarok and stared at the horizon in complete amazement.

“Thank you for your help, Amarok.”

“No need.” He rumbled warmly. “The story was very...interesting. Elder Agni is quite secretive on how he acquired his Sun bride.”

Katara’s mouth dropped open. "I didn't know the story was about him."

"All myths have some truth to them, traveler." Amarok leaned in close and whispered in her ear. "Be prepare to push back."

Before Katara could say anything else, the wolf spirit disappeared into the mist. What did he mean by that? Katara shook her head. She had to stay focus. The wave was far out, and she did not know how to swim in human form. Couldn’t be harder than with a tail, right?

She waded into the water until it was chest deep. There was still a way to go. Katara took a deep breath and dove in. She waved her arms and kicked her legs like how she seen Zuko and Yue do, but her limbs were uncoordinated. A storm came out of nowhere. Ocean water filled her stomach while she was tossed around by rough waves. Katara panicked, trying to keep her head above water without much avail. Fear and doubt fogged her mind. Katara was certain she was going disappear into the inky depths never to be seen again. As she sank, Katara couldn’t remember what she came here for. All she felt was the bitter cold.

Katara’s life flashed before her in bits and pieces.

Her mother’s song.

Warm firm hugs.

Laughter and tears.

A bright blue light shooting out of an iceberg.

Eyes that held the sun.

Bubbles escaped Katara's mouth as her own eyes flew open. She couldn’t give up! Not now!

Renewed by a fresh determination, Katara pushed herself to the surface. She got in a couple of gulps of air before another wave washed over her. Katara gritted her teeth and forced her burning limbs forward. After an agonizing eternality, she dragged herself to shore, coughing and vomiting water. The ocean behind her calmed immediately and the clouds parted. Katara collapsed onto her back and stared up at the colorful sky. The spirits in the lights rejoiced for her.

“I made it...” Katara whispered hoarsely.

She pulled herself to her feet and slowly walked to the tidal wave. Katara stuck her right hand in causing the waters to part and form a tunnel. Katara swallowed the lump in her throat.

This was it.

~*~

Zhao strained his eyes. He could barely make out the ice gates in the distance. Some of his soldiers reported seeing several figures flee there.

"Squad 7, you're with me!" he ordered.

"Sir, isn't best to handle the warriors first before finishing off the rest of the savages?" the squad captain asked.

"That is no shelter." Zhao said lowly. He flashbacked to the scroll he read in the Wan Shi Tong library. "Within those walls are the waterbenders' very source of power. The Moon Spirit itself!"

"How is that possible?"

"The pagan spirits made themselves mortal. Weak. Vulnerable."

The soldiers looked at each other with mixed emotions as they realized what his plan was.

Zhao grinned. "They'll never see it coming."

Chapter Text

Zuko paced back and forth like a caged tiger-adillo. There was so much he wanted to do at once.

Catch up with Uncle. Help Katara and Aang with the ritual. Check on his friends. Stop Zhao.

All the nervous energy nearly drove Zuko over the edge.

“True patience consists in bearing what is unbearable, Nephew.”

“So we’re just supposed to sit here and wait for Zhao to come to us?!”

“Do you believe seeking him out will be more effective?”

“Yes! No? Urgh!” Zuko threw his hands up in frustration. “I want to do something!”

“Trust me Nephew. I understand completely.” Iroh said wearily. “I felt the same way during the Agni Kai.”

Zuko stopped pacing and bowed his head. “You don’t have to say it, Uncle.”

“I owe you that much. If only I stepped in, rules or not.”

“Then you would have been banished too. Or worse.”

Iroh placed both hands on Zuko’s shoulders and looked at him lovingly.

“It would have been worth it.”

Zuko’s eyes became glassy. Before he could respond, a stream of fire was launched towards them. It hit the top of the ice gate, causing dozens of ice shards to rain down. Iroh and Zuko jumped out of the way as Fire Nation soldiers stormed the garden. With the front guard distracted, Zhao dropped down from the waterfall. The shaman stumbled back surprised as Kanna threw her boomerang. Zhao easily dodged it then sneered at them.

“Did you really think that primitive tools could s-“

The boomerang collided hard against Zhao’s head, knocking off his helmet. Stars danced around his vision.

Kanna caught the boomerang then stood in front of Katara and Aang like a mother polar bear dog.

“Stand down.” She said lowly.

Zhao growled, nostrils flaring with smoke. In one quick motion, he dove towards the spirit oasis, scooped up the white Koi fish, and burned it. The world immediately drained of all color, un-nerving everyone. Even the soldiers attacking paused to gawk at the spectacle.

The shaman sank to his knees. “You fool…”

“ZHAO!” Iroh raged. “What have you done?!”

“Isn’t it obvious, general?” Zhao held the bag triumphantly and gave a wide crazed grin. “I’ve won this war!”

~*~

There was no telling where the ocean ended, and sky began. If Katara had trouble understanding the wolf spirit, her mind couldn’t possibly comprehend what she saw before her.

Who she saw before her.

A massive being, made of ocean water ranging from crystal tropical water to midnight black depths, floated over a glassy field. His hand was intertwined with an equally beautiful being, made of stars and moonlight. They were exact opposites, yet so similar. The moon led and the ocean followed, around and around in a perfect circle. Like the koi fish in the Spirit Oasis but so so much more.

Katara fell to her hands and knees as her legs were no longer strong enough to hold her. She kowtowed lowly, forehead touching the ground. Though time was of the essence, Katara dare not utter a word until addressed.

My love. Tui spoke in a floaty ethereal voice. One of our children has come for audience.

Audience? Now? His words were strong and powerful like a crashing wave. She can wait a moment longer.

Love, she came all this way here. You know the journey is not easy for humans. Hear her out.

Very well, my heart. Though Katara couldn’t see his face, she knew he was looking at her. Speak, child.

“Great Ocean Spirt and Great Moon Spirit, my people are in danger.” Katara’s voice shook. “I ask you to please restore my mermaid form so I can protect them.”

There was a deep sigh causing Katara to tremble.

I thought I made myself clear that was a onetime thing.

“P-Please. My friends, my family, will all die!”

If you were careless enough to lose such a blessing, then you did not deserve it in the first place. Be on your way, child.

“Great Ocean Spirit, I beg you!” Tears poured out and her voice cracked. “Yes, I was careless. But my loved ones were in danger, and I did what I had to in order to save them! I only ask for the power to protect them once more.”

Tui gave her a sad look while La remained unfazed by her distress. Katara balled her fists and swallowed down the anger raising up. The spirits had more than enough power to help them, yet the steadily refused.

“Since you will not help, then speak to Elder Spirit Agni and ask him to stop the Fire Nation from-“

Do not speak of the affairs of Elder Spirits so lightly! It is not your place, human!!!

The sky darkened and oceans rose with his booming voice. Katara shrunk in on herself. She felt like a tiny bug caught in the middle of a storm, powerless and insignificant.

“I-I’m sorry…” Katara whimpered.

Tui placed a hand against La’s chest and shot him a disapproving glare. He sighed and glanced away. Tui had a soft spot for humans, from blessing soul unions to reviving the occasional stillborn. He did not understand her fascination with the small mortals but wanted to make her happy nonetheless.

Stop crying. I am not angry with you.

Tui tsked at her husband’s clumsy apology.

Rise, child. What are you called?

She pushed herself to her knees but kept her eyes down.

“K-Katara.”

Surely, you can grant Katara the Brave this one small blessing to save her loved ones.

You said that with the last human requesting the same thing. The Avatar has reawakened. Let him deal with such matters.

Then I shall bless her with a piece of myself. Tui said defyingly.

La shook his head. You cannot keep giving parts of yourself away, my heart. Even though they all eventually return, it is not wise.

Give and take. Push and pull. That is our way. Why not give to our children who had have so much taken from them?

We have given them enough.

Katara’s mouth moved before her brain caught up.

“Great Ocean Spirit, I do not wish to overstep again, but I see how deeply devoted you are to Great Moon Spirit, and she to you. There are no lengths you would not go for each other.”

There is no stronger force than love. Tui agreed.

She cupped La’s face, melting away his harden expression.

Even death itself must bow to it.

“Truly." Katara felt her cheeks warm. "Love changes everything. It picks you up when your down and gives you courage to carry on. It makes you feel alive in ways you didn’t know were possible.”

Tui gave her a soft knowing smile. You’re in love, dear one.

Despite literally begging for her family’s life, a smile crept onto Katara's face.

“Yes, Elder Tui. He and I made a promise to protect each other.” Katara gripped the ends of her parka. “Please Great Ocean Spirit, I only wish to honor my word.”

La was silent for a long while, considering her words. Katara waited with bated breath as she resisted the urge to scream.

Your case is valid. But I shall honor my word and will not interfere nor transform another. Go in peace, child.

Katara looked up at him in complete despair. La’s final words were salt to a gaping wound. Fear melted into anger as Katara shot to her feet.

“How can I possibly be at peace my people, the whole world, is about to be destroy?!” The waves picked up again but Katara pressed on. “Are you so close-off that you’ll let your own children perish while believing that you’ll remain untouched?!”

YOU DARE RAISE YOUR VOICE AT ME?!

Katara was knocked to her back. She covered her ears in a vain attempt to block out La’s powerful voice that came from every direction.

I HAVE TOLERATED YOUR PRESENCE LONG ENOUGH!

La… Tui whispered faintly.

He stopped his tirade as Tui became limp. Before anyone could react, she dissolved into thousands of stars that slipped through his arms and faded away.

~*~

Every night, Yue had the same dream.

The moon disappeared leaving the world void of color and light. Deep down, she knew this was not a dream.

“Tui is dead.”

Suki looked at her in shock. “What?”

“I can feel it.” Yue said without breaking her gaze at the unnaturally blacken sky.

“La drown…” Suki muttered. With the moon gone, she could scarcely imagine how it would impact the delicate order of things. “The rest of the world will soon follow if we don’t do something!”

A commotion sounded not too far behind them. The girls braced themselves, thinking it was another wave of Fire Nation attacks. Instead, Yagoda and her healers gathered at the edge of the shore as she pulled up someone.

“Sokka?!” Yue gasped.

“What are you doing?” Suki scolded as she and Yue helped him up. “You need to rest!”

Sokka shook his head, still in pain from the poison and hasty shapeshifting.

“I had to get out. It’s like the ocean itself is in anguish.” He looked up, noticing the moonless sky for the first time. Color drained from his face. “W-What happened?”

“We have to get to the Spirit Oasis.” Yue said firmly. “Fast.”

~*~

It was darker than any stormy sky or midnight hour. The Elder Spirit numbly sank to his knees, sending rippling waves in the once glassy sea. Katara stared in horror as the of the situation sank in.

Who did this? La asked dangerously low. WHO KILLED MY WIFE?!

Reality itself shook at his fury. Katara flinched and covered her ears again. If she was in her body, she's certain they would be bleeding. When the rage induced storm subsided, the question hung heavy in the air.

“The Fire Nation.” Katara answered with a boldness she didn’t know she had. “The Fire Nation killed your wife. Just as they killed my ancestors and wiped out the Air Nomads."

So this is what lost feels like... The colossal entity clenched his fists, drawing up great pools of water. Agni’s children have gone too far.

Katara pushed herself to her feet.

"Please, Great Ocean Spirit, help us end the war once and for all so no one else would have to go through such pain.”

He glared down at Katara, bearing right through to her soul. His eyes were furious, swirling with rage but also deep sorrow.

I will restore my gift to you, Katara the Brave. Only if you leave the one who killed my heart to me.

Katara squared her shoulders.

“You have my word.”

Chapter Text

Zhao barely had a moment to celebrate before Iroh broke through the line of soldiers and attacked him. He was swiftly reminded why the old general was regarded as The Dragon of the West. His attacks were quick and fierce, keeping Zhao on his toes.

While Iroh handled the admiral, Zuko fought the remaining soldiers with Kanna’s help. A soft glow filled the garden as Katara and Aang’s tattoos lit up. They rose to their feet in a trance. Aang waded into the Spirit Oasis while Katara remained still.

“It’s time!” The shaman announced. “Kanna, what are the procedures?!”

“Katara needs to get to the ocean! Now!” She turned to Zuko. “Go! I’ll handle them!”

“On it!”

Zuko finished off the solider then picked Katara up bridal style. As he sprinted out the garden, a massive figure burst into sky. It was a glowing fish creature, shining bright blue against the greyed-out world. In the center was Aang, still unconscious. Everyone gapped in complete awe.

It was the Ocean Spirit himself.

The sight alone was horrifying but the damage was unimageable. One wave from its hand shot enormous ice spears, big enough to slice entire warships in half. Screams echoed through the night as the Fire Navy tried in vain to escape.

Katara’s sharp gasp broke Zuko out of his trance. Her body was becoming colder and gills reformed on her neck as she struggled to breathe.

“It’s okay, Katara. I got you.” Zuko sprinted towards the nearest canal.

“G-Golden Eyes?” She turned her head towards him. “Is that you? I…I can’t see.”

“It’s me.” He ducked behind a pillar as the Ocean Spirit thundered passed, crushing tanks underfoot. “Don’t worry. I’ll get you to the water.”

Katara let out a sharp cry of pain. “H-Hurry!”

Zuko did not have to be told twice. He was almost to the canal when he felt heat on the back of his neck. Zuko ducked at the last second, narrowly avoiding a fiery decapitation.

“Where do you think you’re going, coward?!” Zhao bellowed.

Zuko growled. As badly as he wanted to fight Zhao, he needed to help Katara to the water first. Zhao pursed, launching fireballs and insults.

The nearest canal was blocked off by debris. Zuko used his remaining energy to fire jet himself over the discarded destroyed tanks onto the ice bridge. He crashed hard but managed to hold on to Katara.

“Golden Eyes!”

“I got you.” He rasped. “Almost there.”

“Not so fast.” Zhao landed on the other end of the bridge, blocking the exit. He was disheveled from the fight with Iroh and breathing hard. The snarl on his face was almost feral.

“Get outta the way Zhao!”

“You have been a thorn in my side long enough! It ends now!”

Katara recognized that voice. It was the human who kidnapped him and Little Arrow.

“Leave him alone!” she shouted.

“Or what little savage?” Zhao goaded. “You’ll splash me for hurting your master?”

He threw a stream of fire at them. Zuko dodged it and leapt onto the railing. The inky depths below were rapid and freezing.

“You’re even a coward at death’s door!”

Katara sensed the water. Her drying skin begged for the ocean’s salt water but there was something she had to do first. Katara felt for Zuko’s face. She rested her hand on his rough scar. This was it.

“I love you, Golden Eyes.”

“I love you too. Always.”

They kissed one last time, savoring each fleeting moment before Zuko tossed her into the water below.

Zhao laughed. “Sacrificing your water savage to the waves was the smartest thing you’ve ever done. You know I’d slay her in front of you just like your pet monster.”

Zuko growled as he whipped out his fire blades.

“Agni Kai! Or are you not man enough to defend your so-called honor against a traitor like me?!”

Zhao’s eyes widened for a second before hardening. “I accept.”

~*~

It was pure chaos.

The trio stared in terror as Appa flew over the Frozen City turned wasteland. As they approached the Spirit Oasis, a bright light shot straight up before coming face to face with the Ocean Spirit. Appa turned at the last second and crashed into a snow back close by.

“Appa!” Yue rubbed the sky bison’s head.

Appa whimpered. He was alive though shaken up.

“Was that…?” Suki stared at the massive spirit marching towards the city.

“Yes.” Sokka said lowly. Something deep inside pulled him towards the Elder Spirit like the tide returning to the ocean. He resisted best he could. They had to find out what happened to Tui. “Quickly!”

The trio raced to the garden where a fight was already taking place. Suki covered them as Sokka and Yue ran to the pond. The closer Yue got, the more lightheaded she became.

“What’s going on?!”

“Princess Yue! Oh, thank the spirits!” the shaman exclaimed. “The Fire Nation killed Tui’s natural form!”

Yue sank to her knees and stared numbly at the limp Koi fish floating belly-up in the pond. After the soldiers were finished off, an elderly couple approached them as Suki secured the perimeter.

“A Moon Spirit vessel.” The man said in wonder.

Sokka protectively stood in front of Yue and bared his teeth. The man was clearly Fire Nation and the North had no female warriors.

“Who are you?!”

The man took a respectful step back but woman was not fazed in the slightest. Instead, her eyes softened.

“You’re Hakoda’s son...”

“How do you know my father?!”

“Peace merman. They are allies and Kanna knows about merfolk rituals.” The shaman intervened.

“How is that possible?!”

“I will explain everything in due time to you and your sister. But for now we must focus on the matter at hand.” Kanna knelt down beside Yue. “Is there anything you can do to help Elder Tui?”

Yue’s mind raced. Maybe this is why Tui spared her life. Maybe this was her destiny.

“Yes.” She said firmly and raised her hand.

“Princess no!” Sokka said frantically, seemingly reading her thoughts.

“I have to.” Yue’s eyes became glassy. “I’m sorry Sokka.”

“You’ll die!” he took her hand in his. “There has to be another way! I can’t lose you!”

“And I can’t let the world die.”

She yanked her hand away and hovered it over the Koi fish. Sokka placed his hand over hers.

“Sokka-“

“I carry a piece of La inside me. Maybe it will help.”

Yue swallowed thickly then looked to Kanna for confirmation. The old woman bore an expression Sokka saw on his father whenever he was deep in thought.

“Have you completed your wedding ceremony?”

“It was fake-”

“Did you or did you not exchange vows under Tui’s light?”

“Yes-“

“And consummated?”

A blush formed on both cheeks. It happened the night Sokka returned after exchanging vows at the cannel’s edge. Everything went down so quickly they both agreed not to tell anyone.

“I’ll take that as a yes.” Kanna intertwined their hands. “Your spirit energies are now joined. This might work.”

Yue and Sokka looked at each other with mixed emotions.

“Ready?” Sokka squeezed.

“As I’ll ever be.”

~*~

The two firebenders engaged in the scared duel as the world around them drowned. Though it was close, Zhao gained the upper hand and pinned Zuko against the railing.

“Look at you. No throne. No family. And no honor.” He lit his palm and prepared to strike. “I’ll brand your other eye and drag you back to the Fire Nation to be burned alive!!!”

Zuko gritted his teeth as he stared down Zhao, determined not to flinch or turn away. This time he’ll be defiant to the end. He owed as much to the people he’d failed.

“No one can help you now.”

The canal suddenly began to glow as something shot up. Zuko’s mouth fell open then grew into a coy smile as he looked above Zhao’s head.

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that.”

“What are you-”

Two large webbed hands slammed down on both sides. Katara loomed over them in full mermaid form. Her tattoos were still glowing from the transformation, making her look even more ominous.

“Let him go.” She bared her sharp teeth.

Zhao shakily released Zuko and stumbled back in fear while staring up at Katara.

“H-How? I killed you…” He swallowed thickly. “Are you going to kill me?”

Katara growled lowly at him. She wanted to. So badly.

“No.” She picked Zuko up and held him close. “I made a promise.”

Zhao let out a sharp panicked laugh.

“Even with all your power, you’re still a naïve fool! You’re going to regret not slaying me when you had the chance!”

“No. You’d wish I did.”

Katara backed up and she and Zuko dipped their head respectfully.

Zhao scoffed. “Please. I am the greatest conqueror to ever live! I am Zhao the Moon-Slayer!!!”

The hairs on his neck stood as he felt a bitter coldness wash over. Before Zhao could process anything, an enormous hand made of freezing water encircled him. It hoisted him up high in the sky at dizzying speeds like a leaf caught in a hurricane. The Ocean Spirit’s deep swirling eyes bore into his soul.

You killed my wife.

~*~

Yue and Sokka reached into the Spirit Oasis and cupped the Moon Spirit Koi fish. A bright light engulfed the entire garden. When it faded, the Koi fish sprung back to life and jumped into the pond. A large full moon reclaimed her place in the sky as color reappeared. Yue moaned lowly and swayed unsteadily. Sokka quickly caught her before she hit the ground.

“Yue?!”

Color drained from her face. She gave her friends one last weak smile.

“Thank… you… for… every…thing…”

Her white hair turned dark brown as her body went limp.

“No! Yue!!!” Sokka held her close as tears poured down onto her still face. “My princess. Please… I love you.”

A heavy silence fell over the remaining people. Suki placed a hand on Sokka’s shoulders as tears escaped.

“She saved us.”

“Her sacrifice will always be remembered.” Iroh whispered.

Sokka gritted his teeth. He made a her a promise and by Koh he was going to keep it.

“I can bring her back.”

“Sokka…” Suki started.

“The princess’s spirit is gone.” The Shaman bowed his head. “Merged with the moon now.”

“No! Tui was only a part of Yue, not all of her!” Sokka yelled. “Her true spirit’s close by! I know it!”

“Merman-“

Sokka turned to Kanna with tears flowing down his face. “Help me!”

Kanna frowned deep in thought. “She’ll need an anchor. Something to guide her back to her body.”

Sokka understood. He kissed her lips, praying, begging, and willing her back to life. Something deep inside surged and Sokka felt energy leak out of him. He only stopped when he was completely drained and near fainting. Sokka stared at Yue’s face, still frozen and unmoving. He brushed the now dark brown hair out of her eyes.

“My princess?”

Yue inhaled deeply like she was breaking surface. Her eyes fluttered opened, wide and confused.

“Sokka-“

She was cut off by his tight hug.

“YUE!!!” he cried and laughed.

Cheers erupted from their small party. Yue wrapped her arms around him and kissed his neck. She incredibly tired but also different in a way she couldn’t describe. But whatever they did, it worked. Yue looked at the bright moon shining overhead and smiled.

“We did it.”

Chapter Text

Victory songs and praises to La range through the early morning. Zuko sat on the snow bank with the barely conscious Aang as he watched Katara enjoy her restored mermaid form. He knew she missed the ocean deeply and despite being happy for her, Zuko felt a great pain inside.

Things really weren’t going to be the same.

“Zuko! Aang!”

His friends jumped off the Musk ox-horses and tackled them into a group hug. Zuko was beyond relived to see they all made it.

“Yue your hair!” Aang exclaimed.

“Oh yes.” She twirled a strand between her fingers. “Tui decided she wanted it back.”

“It suites you.” Zuko said sincerely.

Yue gave him a grateful smile as Sokka took her hand.

“It does.” He agreed before they shared a kiss.

Zuko smirked and rolled his eyes.

“Hey you and my baby sis are way worse.” Sokka teased while clasping Zuko’s back. “Speaking of which.”

He dove into the canal with a loud whoop and transformed to join his sister.

“C’mon! Let’s join in!” Suki said excitedly.

“Coming guys?” Yue asked.

Zuko waved his hand and Aang shook his head. “Pass. Go have fun.”

The girls linked up and went towards the other healers and civilians they’ve befriended. Aang curled up on himself. Zuko frowned. The young airbender usually would be right in the middle of parties, grinning and having a grand time.

“You okay?”

“I killed them…” Aang whispered shakily.

Zuko swallowed the lump in his throat. He too had very mixed feelings about the victory.

“You didn’t have a choice. It was them or us.”

Aang buried his head in his knees. "I knew you wouldn't understand."

"You're wrong. I do understand." Zuko said lowly. His eyes lingered on a destroyed Fire Nation tank. "My actions have gotten many people killed, including innocents." He thought about his crew, the 41st division, and Azula. Zuko had no idea where she was or if she was still alive. He just knew it was his fault she was missing.

Aang looked at him surprised. He knew Zuko had many secrets but never expected that to be one of them.

Zuko's grip tightened. "We can't give up. We have to honor their death. Make it mean something."

Aang wiped his eyes. He understood what Zuko meant. "This will be the last bloody battle. I swear it."

The two continued to watch the celebration with mixed emotions too raw to put into words.

~*~

Pakku never gave much stalk to spiritual things outside of waterbending. He regarded himself as a man of logic and reason. There were very few things that could sway his mind once it was set in stone.

This day was full of them.

The moon fading out of existence then miraculously returning. The dead returning to life. An Elder Spirit personally interfering with moral affairs. Merfolk existing, fighting for their behave, and now playing in the destroyed canals.

Pakku watched with a rare shocked expression Katara swim and enjoy her mermaid form. Her brother transformed and joined her. People no longer gawked but rejoiced alongside with them. It surely would be an experience Pakku were never forget.

He heard chatting close by as two women passed.

Pakku’s heart skipped a beat. That voice.

“Kanna.” He breathed.

He turned and saw her arms linked with Yagoda. The master healer shot daggers at him.

“Pay him no mind Kanna.”

“It’s okay, Kindred Spirit. How about you go ahead on to the celebration. I’ll meet you there soon.”

“Are you certain?”

“I can handle him now.” Kanna nodded. “Thank you, my sister."

Yagoda hesitantly gave in. She shot Pakku another cold stare as she passed him.

“You better apologize.”

Pakku ignored and continued to stare at Kanna. It’s been so long.

“Y-You’re alive…” Hundreds of emotions flooded him at once. “Why did you leave me?”

Something on Kanna’s face shifted. “You know why.”

Pakku took a step closer. “I would have been good to you. Provided and protected you like a proper husband.”

“I don’t doubt that.” She sighed. “But I wanted something you couldn’t give me.”

“What?”

Kanna gazed lovingly towards the merfolk siblings, confusing Pakku even more. He blocked her view and pulled out brothel necklace she left behind.

“I’ve kept it all these years for you.”

Kanna hummed. “That’s very sentimental Pakku.”

His heart leapt. Maybe, there was still a chance.

“We are both very old and don’t have much time left. Whatever disagreement we had is long behind us.” He held up the necklace. “I want to start again. Will you ma-”

Kanna held a silver weapon between them. “Have you ever seen something like this before? It's called a boomerang.”

Pakku blinked hard. “Kanna-“

“Our Southern kin used to hunt with these before they transformed into merfolk. No matter how far you throw, it always returns. Isn’t that fascinating?”

“Kanna please focus.” Pakku said frustratedly.

“Someone very dear made this for me.” Kanna traced the swirling carving etched on the side with a soft sad smile. “That way, he’d always return to me, like he promised.”

Pakku harden as he wrapped his hand over the necklace. “Who is he?”

Kanna’s eyes held a mischievous glint. “Guess.”

Pakku shook his head, disapprovingly. “Considering what he gave you to remember him by, it was surely a mad man.”

“Something like that.” Kanna chuckled. She cupped her hands over her mouth and called out to the merfolk. “Katara! Sokka!”

“Grandmother!” Katara beamed.

Pakku’s jaw dropped.

Kanna gave him a coy smile. “Turns out mermen adore overly emotional women too stubborn for their own good.”

The words resurface bitter memories of their many arguments.

Katara excitedly swam up to them with Sokka close behind. “Grandmother, the ritual worked! La restored my mermaid form!”

Kanna rested her head against Katara’s cheek. “I’m so happy for you, my precious one. And for you too, my brave warrior.”

Sokka gave her a crooked smile. “Gran-Gran, huh? I have sooo many questions.”

“Sokka!” Katara chided as Kanna laughed.

Pakku watched the scene before him in complete disbelief. The pieces slowly started to come together.

“Katara, I…” He started. He flinched when Katara glared angrily at him.

“What?”

Pakku bowed his head. “I apologize.”

“You, apologize?” Kanna let out a breathless laugh. “This truly is a day of miracles.”

Pakku shot her a glare but continued regardless. “Had I known you were Kanna’s granddaughter, I would have trained you properly.”

“You should have trained me because I am a waterbender. No other reason.” Katara spat. “I am still holding you to that rematch, so prepare yourself.”

Pakku swallowed thickly.

“Now, if you excuse us, my brother and I have a lot of catching up to do with our grandmother.”

Taking the hint, Pakku walked away while shaking his head, still in utter shock.

Truly, this would not be a day he’d never forget.

A hush fell blanketed the area as Tulok brought in a limp body covered in blood stained eloquent furs. Everyone immediately knew who it was.

Hahn.

The Shaman shook his head forlornly. He had hoped Hahn would change his ways before it was too late. Such was the order of the universe.

“A tragic end indeed. Hahn, son of Qimmiq, will be laid to rest along side with the rest of our fallen brothers and sisters.”

People began to mummer and grow anxious.

“Is Hahn no longer chief?”

“Who was spear heading the battle then?”

“Do you know if he named any successors?”

The shaman hit his staff against the ground to get everyone’s attention. “Peace, all of you. This will be resolved.”

“Who will lead us?!” someone called out.

“The council is still deciding. We will hold a meeting immediately.”

“No need. You know the rites.” The shaman moved through the crowd. “When there is no successor named, the person who led the tribe through the darkest hour is named Chief.” He stopped in front of Yue. Her eyes widened.

“Are you certain? Surely Master Tulok is a better fit.”

Tulok grunted. “I am merely a warrior. Not a leader.”

The shaman held out the scared Chief’s shawl. “Yue, daughter of Chief Arnook, do you accept the position as Chiefess of the Northern Water Tribe?”

“I…”

Yue was at a lost for words. It was such a major responsibility on such a short notice. Her friends pushed through the crowd to reach her as Sokka and Katara swam to the shore.

“It’s your choice. No one else.” Sokka said encouragingly.

“Whatever you choose, we’ll support you wholeheartedly.” Suki added as the rest agreed.

Yue closed her eyes and nodded.

“I will think about it.” She answered.

The shaman nodded with understanding in his eyes. “Very well.”

~*~

The celebration ended shortly after. Funeral arrangements were being made and rebuilding began as the gaang prepared once more to leave.

“We’re still sticking to the original plan?” Suki asked while reviewing the maps.

“Actually, I’ve decided to stay here to help rebuild.” Yue said. “Besides, someone has to prep the North for when you guys return with the Southern merfolk.”

“Then I’m staying with you.” Sokka announced.

“Are you sure?” Katara asked, knowing how eager he was to leave the North.

“You were the one who convinced La. They’ll believe you more.” Sokka said encouragingly. “And I know they felt his mourning. They won’t be hard to convince.”

“If you say so.” Katara wrapped her arms around him.

Though it won’t be for long, she was still going to miss him. Besides, Katara knew the real reason Sokka wanted to stay. Her eyes drifted to Zuko reuniting with his uncle and blinked back the tears. Katara had dreaded this moment ever since Kanna told her there was a way to restore her mermaid form.

Much too soon, the time had come.

~*~

“You can come with us. There’s room on Appa.” Zuko suggested.

He just got Uncle back. Did he really have to go now?

Iroh sighed while asking himself the same questions. “I’m afraid not. I still need to help Grand Leader Kanna with the resistance. Besides, both of us traveling together in the Earth Kingdom would draw too much attention. They’re not terribly fond of me over there and for good reasons.”

Zuko understood. It still hurt.

Iroh placed a white lotus tile in his hand. “Outside Gaoling is an herbalist shop. Show this to the attendant and tell them ‘A cherry blossom among flowers.’ If they answer, ‘A warrior among men’, ask for Moonflower and Belladonna. Tell them White Jade Bush sent you.”

“…You want me to order flowers?”

“They are my White Lotus contacts. They will guide you through the Earth Kingdom.”

“We don’t need contacts! We got here just fine!”

Iroh gave him a look that said otherwise. Zuko scowled. Things were becoming more and more complicated and he didn’t like it one bit.

“Trust me, Nephew. Maintaining secrets is of the upmost importance.”

“Wait. Do you know what happened to Azula? Ty Lee told me she went missing after I left.”

Iroh dropped his eyes.

“So you do know!”

“Yes, but not now.” He glanced at the guards glaring at them and put up his hood. “I must go.”

“Why can’t you tell me now?!”

“All will be explained in due time. I promise.” Iroh hugged Zuko. “We will meet again.”

With that, he disappeared around the destroyed ice wall. Zuko angerly tightened his fist around the tile. He knew Iroh meant well, but it didn’t stop the hurt emotions rising up.

“Golden Eyes.”

Zuko snapped out of his spiraling thoughts and met Katara at the ice’s edge. She wordlessly picked him up and caressed his scar. Zuko leaned into her touch and sighed.

“I’m going to miss you so much.” She whispered sadly.

“We’ll see each other soon.” Zuko said firmly, though he was blinking back his own tears. “I’m not ready to give up on us.”

“Me either. I just wish this wasn’t goodbye.”

Zuko swallowed the growing lump in his throat.

“There’s a legend about a soul string tying loved ones together. No matter where they are, they’ll always be connected.” He said hoarsely.

“Truly?” Katara remembered what Wolf Spirit Amarok said about all legends having some truth in them.

"I swear on my honor, I’ll come back for you.” He stood and kissed her forehead, right under her crescent moon tattoo. Katara noted the way his lips lingered; wishing the moment could last always. But deep down, she knew it was time to go. With a heavy heart, Katara placed Zuko on Appa’s saddle before she changed her mind and swam away with him forever.

“Katara, we’re going to miss you!” Aang said as he and Suki leaned over to hug her.

“Take care, you hear?” Suki gave her a sad smile.

“You too, my friends.”

Appa whined lowly as well. Katara scratched his head. “Look after them, okay.” Appa exhaled through his nose and licked her. Zuko leaned over the saddle to get one last look.

"See you later, Katara."

With a strong flap from Appa’s tail, he was airborne. She, Sokka and Yue watched until he was nothing but a speck in the sky. Tears finally escaped Katara’s eyes.

“See you later, Golden eyes.”

Chapter Text

Something was wrong.

Very wrong.

As Head Fire Sage, Kazuya already had great knowledge of the spirit realm and its innerworkings. But he also had a special ability that allowed him to rise in the sage ranks so quickly. From a young age, he was highly spirit sensitive. A gift from Agni as people called it. Now he wasn’t so sure.

Kazuya sat still as stone as the burning sage filled the temple's room. His stomach growled lowly, begging for food, but he refused to move. There was great turmoil in the spirit realm and he had a sickening feeling the Fire Nation was somehow the source. But of course, such traitorous thoughts could never be uttered out loud. The Firelord would have him killed, head fire sage or not.

A whispery voice snapped Kazuya out of his trance. He gasped at the transparent fox-spirit before him. Kazuya had not seen his spirit guide and friend, or any other spirits, in days.

“Kitsune! What’s wrong?”

The fox spirit darted around nervously. I’ve come to warn you. Elder Agni is coming for audience!

Kazuya blanched. “W-What?”

He is greatly upset. Your people have done the unthinkable and now- Kitsune ears flatten as her back arched. He approaches! Tread lightly my friend!

With that, the fox spirit disappeared completely.

“Kitsune!”

Kazuya shot to his feet, alarmed. What should he do? There were no records of anyone speaking directly to Agni. Not since the Sun Warriors and they were long gone.

Suddenly, the candles’ flames shot up to the ceiling. A large dragon-like figure emerged from the flames. Kazuya immediately dropped to a low kowtow, head pressing the ground in the upmost show of respect.

At least one of my children remembers proper form. Agni spoke in a guttural growl. Elder La is furious, rightfully so. As am I. Like a neglectful father, I have left you unpunished for far too long.

Kazuya’s heart raced. Did this have to do with the failed Siege of the North and the spirit turmoil?

“P-Please forgive us, G-Great Elder spirit. We’ll accept whatever p-punishment you deem worthy.”

Agni growled. Forgive? Do you even know the great transgression committed?

Kazuya swallowed. “S-Slaughtered your sacred dragons and um, r-ravished the lands?”

Worse.

Worse? What could possibly be worse?!

You murdered my sister.

The wind was knocked out of Kazuya. He looked up in horror.

“Elder Moon Spirit is dead?”

No more. But if it wasn’t for her foresight and the Water Tribe princess, she would have remained so.

Kazuya gripped his head in distraught.

I should wipe out your kind for the very act! Alas, my Sun Bride has asked me to spare you. For her honor, I shall; but not without consequences. So tell your leader to cease this petty squabble at once or the punishment will be much graver.

“Y-Yes Great Elder Spirit.” Kazuya said in a small voice.

Agni blew heavily through his nose, snuffing out the tall flames. The orange glow died down as the candle flames returned to normal size. Kazuya collapsed the ground, shaking uncontrollably. He did not stir until one of his fellow sages came in to check on him.

“Head Sage! Are you alright?!” she turned the old man over then felt his head. “I’m fetching the healer.”

“No.” Kazuya grabbed her arm; his eyes wide and glassy. “Get the Firelord.”

~*~

Zuko never thought he’d be sad to leave the Northern Water Tribe. He foolishly assumed he and his friends would all leave together. He should have known better. Though they all promise to meet up soon, anything could happen. It was war after all.

He shook his head to get rid of the thought. Instead of returning to the mission on hand of ordering flowers from an herbalist’s shop in Goaling per Uncle’s request, Zuko’s brain drifted to the Lovers’ Tomb. Two lovers from warring kingdoms reunited only in stolen moments before being separated for good. Zuko sighed and rubbed the hair beads Katara got him from the night market while they were still in the North. Spirits, he missed her.

“Secret tunnel! Secret tunnel!”

“Would you two cut that out?!” Zuko yelled at Aang and Suki bolting that stupid song. “It’s bad enough hearing it from those street performers for HOURS!”

“Trust Love aren’t mere ‘street performers’.” Suki shot back. “They’re world renounced singers! I can’t believe we actually met them!”

Zuko pinched the bridge of his nose. Suki was usually the straight edge one keeping them on schedule. All of that went out the window when they ran into to vagabonds wandering around singing and braiding flowers like they weren’t in the middle of a war-torn area.

“Yeah c’mon Zuko. Loosen up some.” Aang elbowed him. “We can all use a break sometimes.”

Zuko huffed and marched ahead. Who had time for breaks? The Fire army was still hovering close by and spirits knows how long the Mad King Bumi would keep them in the city this time. Zuko was still bristled about being trapped in rock candy for a full day as a practical joke. He and Yue smelled like strawberries for weeks.

“Finally.” Zuko said as they made it to the top of the mountain. It was a straight shot from here. “Let’s get to Omashu then…”

Aang and Suki shared a confused look when Zuko trailed off. They hurriedly joined him at the top then paused. Red flags with black flames covered the once proud earthen gate.

“No…” Suki whispered.

Zuko tightened his fists and looked away. Guilt of his country’s actions filled him.

“C’mon. There are bound to be more Earth Masters in Goaling-“

“No!” Aang said firmly, shocking his friends. “I’m not leaving Bumi behind!”

“How do you even know he’s there?” Zuko asked.

“He promised to wait for me in the city. Bumi always keeps his promises. Always.”

There was a brief tense moment of silence as Aang’s words settled in.

“Well then, break’s over.” Suki pulled out her fans. “Time to get back to work.”

“Alright.” Zuko unsheathed his swords. Though still annoyed, he was grateful to actually be doing something. Even if it was something dumb like storming a Fire Nation captured city. “In and out, stealth mode only.”

Aang nodded, gratefully. “Thanks guys.”

“Of course.” Suki said. “Zuko, anything seems familiar? Looks different from the other colonies we’ve seen.”

Zuko took a closer look, realizing she was right.

“The flame insignia isn’t the typical military one. It was high class reserved for nobility. A noble is currently here. Probably ruling as governor.”

“Meaning?”

Zuko’s eyes widened some as he suddenly remembered who’s house that particular insignia belonged to. His grip on the swords tightened.

“Meaning I know how to get us in. And how to find King Bumi.”

~*~

Mai was so utterly bored.

She thought governing a ‘rebellious’ colony filled with ‘wild’ and ‘uncivilized’ peasants would be more interesting. Instead, the military police did all of the work. She wasn’t even allowed to attend the executions since it was unacceptable for a lady of her status. Mai huffed. Mind as well be back in the Fire Nation.

Her family’s drab scheduled walk was cut short in fear of a pox spreading around the city, not that Mai minded. She shortly retired to her room for the night. The servants came and prepped her for bed in silence obedience before gracefully leaving Mai to her own devices. She sighed again as she sharpened one of her knives. A hired smith was always on standby, but she preferred to sharpen them herself.

The hairs on the back of her neck stood up. On instinct, Mai threw a set of daggers behind her towards the window. In the dim candlelight, she could barely make out the figure crouching on the window seal; contorted in a way indicating they’ve dodged her first set of daggers. No matter. Plenty more where that came from.

“I forgot how many of those things you carried.”

Mai paused mid swing then glared at the familiar voice.

“Zuko.”

Mai’s frown deepen as he stepped out of the shadows. He was ragged and filthy; dressed in worn Earth Kingdom clothes and reeking of sewage. His hair was a tangled mess with – Great Agni- were those Water Tribe beads?

“It’s been a while Mai.”

“What in Agni’s name do you think you’re doing? How dare you return here after betraying your country!"

Zuko stiffened. “That’s not how I see it.”

“Aiding the Avatar. Destroying military ships. Siding with the North during the siege.” Mai counted on her fingers. “Shall I continue?”

“Mai-“

“I’m getting the guards.”

“No. You’re not.”

“And why is that?” Mai flashed another set of throwing knifes.

“Because that would be boring. And you hate boring.”

Mai glared at him for a long hard while.

“What do you want?”

“King Bumi’s location.”

Mai exhaled through her nose. “Or what? You’ll have your little monk friend blow me away?”

“No. I’ll offer you something in return.”

Mai raised her brow, beckoning him to continue.

“A way out of here.” Zuko took a step closer. “Tell me where King Bumi is, and I’ll sneak you out of the city.”

Mai scoffed. “You don’t think I could sneak out anytime I want? I’m not some damsel in a tower waiting to be recused.”

“That’s not what I meant-“

“Really? Because that’s what you said. Believe it or not Zuko, most people prefer not gallivanting around in filthy wastelands with unwashed peasants.” Her lips pursed. “Besides, my finance wouldn’t appreciate it much.”

Something on Zuko’s face shifted. “They found you another one that quickly?”

“So did you.”

Zuko’s confused expression caused Mai to roll her eyes.

“Please. I’m not stupid. I’ve heard the rumors and read the reports of you hovering around a water savage.”

“Don’t call her that!”

“Oh I’m sorry. ‘Mermaid’. Honestly Zuko, she isn’t even human. Not that a regular water savage is much of a step up.”

Zuko growled at her; swords in his hands twitching. But like a fool, he still refused to fight her.

“You’re wrong about a lot of things Mai.” Zuko turned to the window. “Don’t want to tell me where King Bumi is? Fine. Have fun living out your plush life stained by the blood of innocents.”

“At least my life is real. Unlike the spirit tale you’re living.” Mai said calmly. “Give the Avatar and your mermaid bride my regards.”

Zuko shot her one last dirty look before ducking out the window. Mai summoned a servant and requested audience with her father. She then returned to her vanity to resumed knife sharping. The Firelord was right. Her ex-betroth was a fool.

Shortly later, Mai's request was granted. She tucked her knives into the secret compartments under her sleeves then made her way to her father's study. Ukano was there comforting his wife.

"Oh Mai." Michi wailed. "It's terrible! Tom-Tom is missing!"

"This has to be the work of rebels. Have you seen anything suspicious?" Ukano asked.

Mai folded her arms. "In fact I have. Zuko visited me, demanding for King Bumi's whereabouts."

Both of her parents gasped in horror.

"That traitor!" Ukano hissed. "Guards, sweep the palace immediately!"

"He's probably long gone by now." Mai shrugged.

Michi covered her eyes. "What do we do?! What of my precious son?!"

"If I may, father."

Ukano nodded for his daughter to continue.

"I believe a more direct approached is needed. Someone who is specialized in tracking down fugitives."

"Is this another ploy to leave the palace? We've already to you-" Michi started.

Mai rolled her eyes. "Not me, Mother. But I know just who."

~*~

Omashu wasn’t a complete bust.

They were able to help evaluate the citizens, thanks to the fake plague inspired by Sokka’s octopus-cat story. And Aang was able to find King Bumi thanks to some accidental baby kidnapping and ransoming, but he was unable to convince the mad king to leave with them. Zuko and Suki covered him best they could, but ultimately had to retreat as back up troops swarmed them.

Zuko rubbed his aching head. They were supposed to be keeping a low profile, but only managed to paint a bigger target on their head. He knew how eager Governor Ukano was to please the Firelord. No doubt he’ll try to cover up his mistake of letting the Traitor Prince and Avatar escape under his watch. Another threat was soon at hand. Despite all of that, the conversation with Mai weighted heavily on Zuko’s mind.

Was she right? Were his hopes really delusional like a spirit tale?

Zuko growled for the hundred time as he trudged through the mud swatting at mosquito-gnats while calling for his friends. This will be the absolutely last side stop! Zuko was going to put his foot down and no amount of pleading or Aang’s puppy bear-dog eyes will change that. Frustrated, Zuko launched a stream of fire at a practically thick swarm. For the briefest second, Ursa appeared amongst the insects.

Zuko!

He gasped as the fire incinerated them. He raced over but found nothing except dead bugs floating in the water.

“Spirits, I’m losing my mind…”

Dad's gonna kill you! Really, he is.

Zuko whirled around, alarmed. “Azula?!”

He saw nothing but more swampland trees. Zuko gripped his head. What was going on?! He had to find is friends and get out of here!

Zuko ran blindly through the swamp; cutting and burning vines along the way. His anger and fear grew with each swing. After running into a partially thick patch, Zuko released a wave of fire. The plants suddenly morphed into Katara in human form and completely horrified at the incoming flames.

“NO!” Zuko cried.

He rushed over to the charred figure and found it was nothing but plants once again. Tears ran down his face. Maybe it was best that they went separate ways. Even if Katara remained human, he’ll just end up hurting her like everyone else.

~*~

Finally, finally, after leaving the haunted swamp, the group made it to Goaling. Everyone was tired and hungry from the long journey. Still, finding Aang's earthbending master and the herbalist shop was top priority. There were no shops in the area they landed, so the group decided to check out the local illegal fight club a villager from a nearby town told them about.

It was loud, with rocks flying everywhere. Zuko cringed internally when a man mocking the Fire Nation came onto stage and everyone booed. Across the stage, he caught brief sight of a hooded figure staring intently at them. They disappeared as soon as Zuko locked eyes with them.

"I think it's time we should leave." Zuko whispered while pulling his own hood down further.

"WHAT?" Suki yelled over the noise.

Aang butted between them and pointed to the stage. "It's her! The girl from my vision!"

"The Blind Bandit?" Suki questioned.

Before the others could stop him, Aang leapt onto the ring to talk but was challenged to a fight instead. Aang readily agreed as Zuko groaned.

"I'm going to get some air."

"Don't go far." Suki reminded him.

Zuko disappeared into the crowd. Instead of heading for the exit like he said, the doubled back to the spot where he saw the hooded figure. As expected, they were long gone. Zuko kept one hand on his swords hidden under his cloak as he surveyed the area. He couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. Around him people cheered loudly at the match. Zuko jumped back as the Blind Bandit nearly crashed into him followed by a breeze. Zuko shot a disapproving glare at a bashful Aang.

"Are you alright?"

The girl pushed against his outstretched hand as she got up.

"Watch were you're going!" she snapped then stormed off.

"Hey wait!" Aang ran after her. "You said we were going to talk after this!"

The girl earthbended the tunnel behind her shut, but Aang managed to slip in with his airbending. Zuko banged against the wall and swore. Suki grabbed his shoulder.

"We'll cut them off around back!"

Zuko gave a curt nod before they both took off running.

It was already very late out. Automatically, they could tell something was off but not what. Zuko felt the wall to see if any earth had been disturbed.

"Nothing!"

"Maybe they went underground. An Earth Kingdom city like this is bound to have some sort of tunnel system."

"Great." Zuko sighed. "Can't anything go right for once?"

A sharp ring sounded, causing the hair on Zuko's neck to rise. Acting purely on instinct, Zuko leapt in front of Suki and rerouted a fiery blast. A tall figure stepped out from the shadows and removed his hood. Tattooed on his head was a strange marking Zuko's only heard rumors of. His heart quickened at the sight.

Suki darted around him and landed serval jabs on the man's bare chest. Her eyes widened as he remained standing. A chi block like that was enough to take a fully grown platypus-bear! The man glared down at her, annoyed. A high pitch sound rang out as his tattoo glowed. Zuko launched fire at his head as Suki dodged the explosion. She bit back a pained scream as the flames licked the side of her leg. Zuko slashed his calves with his swords causing the attacker to stumble. He helped Suki up and ran down an alley; barely missing another explosive blast.

The city was an absolute labyrinth with danger at each turn. People panicked as the guards scrambled together against the supposed Fire Nation attack. Zuko swore again he rerouted another blast. Seizing the opportunity, Suki threw her shield right at the attacker's forehead. He stumbled back dazed. In the seconds it took him to recover, the teens had already disappeared into the crowd. Growling lowly, the man shook his head and continued the search.

He'll find them again soon enough.

~*~

Suki winced as Zuko poured water over her burns. “Who was that guy? It's like he wasn't human.”

Zuko ripped off the bottom half of his cloak to wrap Suki's leg. He paused when the moonlight broke through the clouds, allowing Zuko to clearly see the burns.

"Hey. Zuko." Suki said when the pause went on too long. "You alright?"

He blinked hard, snapping back to reality, then resumed to tending Suki's leg.

"That was a Fire Yokai."

"A fire what?"

"Someone who made a deal with evil spirits for power. I didn't think they actually existed."

Suki took a moment to process the information. "Someone must have hired him."

Zuko swallowed. There were few people who knew about Fire Yokai and even fewer who knew how to contact one.

"We need to find Aang."

"Yes, but not now. He's still patrolling out there. We need to find a place to wait out the night."

Zuko grunted. He didn't like it one bit but knew Suki was right.

“Let’s head back to the woods.”

Suki nodded as Zuko helped her up. It took some time with Suki leaning against him for support, but after many close calls they finally made it out of the city’s limit. Close by was a small building Zuko didn’t notice when they first arrived. One the side, barely illuminated by the hanging lantern, was a white lotus. Just like on Uncle’s tile!

“It’s the shop!” Zuko pointed out.

“I got your back.”

Zuko knocked on the door as Suki watched his rear with her fans drawn.

“Apologies but we’re closed for the night.” A voice came from inside.

Zuko’s breath hitched.

No. It couldn’t be.

“Zuko?” Suki asked cautiously.

He blinked hard. He was just hearing things. That’s all. The voice was similar but it was no way it was her.

“It's fine.” Zuko cleared his throat and tried to remember the passcode Uncle gave him. “Uh. A cherry blossom among flowers.”

The voice was silent for a moment before answering.

“A warrior among men.”

Zuko and Suki exchanged glances. This was the place!

“Which flowers do you prefer?”

“Um, moonflowers and belladonnas. Recommended by, uh white jade bushes?”

There was a faint gasp from the other side of the door. Zuko immediately drew a sword, unsure what to expect, as the door creaked open. He felt Suki also brace herself. A tall dark hair woman stood in the frame, hair and dress in Earth Kingdom style, but eyes undoubtedly Fire Nation. They became glassy with unshed tears.

"Zuko..."

He dropped his sword.

“M-Mom?”

Chapter Text

Kanna breathed deeply, letting the cold air settle in her lungs. After joining alliances with a village full of liberated Earthbenders eager to join the fight, Iroh stayed behind to finalize things while she and Katara headed to the South Pole. It was a straight shot; nothing but water and ice from here. Kanna traced her boomerang as her mind wandered to when she first made the trip over 50 years ago. She knew this day would come eventually but it still felt much too soon.

“Grandmother, are you alright?” Katara asked in concern. “I can slow down.”

“Don’t worry about me, precious one. Time is of the essence.”

“We’ve reached the Southern Waters. The guards we’ll sense me soon. If we are to rest, it should be now.”

Kanna hummed. “Very well. Set me on that iceberg there.”

Katara obeyed and guided the raft to the nearby iceberg. After helping her grandmother on top, she lingered with questions burning her lips. Katara remember how Yue felt when they first arrived to the Northen Water Tribe and wondered if Kanna was going through the same thing.

“You’re not alone, Grandmother. No matter what happens I’ll stick by you.”

Kanna gave her a sad smile. “Thank you, my sweet child. But I know the other reason why you linger.”

Katara hesitated some. “Please tell me what happened to you, to grandfather, everything.”

“In due time, my precious one. When we’re all together.”

Katara nodded. She was aching to know, but Sokka and Dad needed to be there as well. It was only right. Kanna held her webbed finger.

“One more thing.”

“Yes?”

Kanna’s eyes sparkled with unshed tears. “Don’t tell Hakoda who I am.”

Katara’s eyes widened. She knew her father was taken in by Bato’s family but he was so understanding when she was stuck in human form, she just assumed he already knew about his real mother.

“Promise me.” Kanna stressed.

Katara blinked back tears. “I promise Grandmother.”

Kanna stood and kissed her cheek. “Thank you, my precious one. Go on now. You know how vigilant those guards are.”

“Will you be alright here?”

“Yes. Go on.”

“I’ll come back for you as soon as possible. With the Southern Merfolk army!”

Kanna smiled. “I know you will.”

She held the smile until her granddaughter disappeared under the waves. Once alone, she let the long awaited tears fall.

~*~

Toph spat.

The nerve of that hotshot, thinking he could waltz into her arena with his fancy footwork and make a fool of her. She’ll get him back in due time.

Which may be now.

Toph shifted her foot. Seconds later, a rock pillar launched the stalker several meters in the air. But instead of face planting in front of her like always, they gently drifted to the ground.

The nerve.

“You a stalker or something?!”

“What?! No! I just wanna talk. Honest.”

“I don’t.” Toph angrily brushed past him.

“See my best friend King Bumi told me to find an Earthbending master who listens to the Earth.” The guy followed her. “Then I had a vison in a magic swamp of you laughing. So when I heard you laugh in the arena, I knew you were meant to be my Earthbending master!”

“Did you hit your head?”

“No. Not recently.”

Toph blew her banes out her face. “Great. You’re not just a stalker but also crazy.”

“I promise it’s true! It’s the reason why my friends and I came to Gaoling. To find you and a white lotus herbalist shop.”

“And now you have. Bye.”

“Wait-“

Toph held up her hand causing Aang to skid to a stop. He whipped out his staff and braced for a potential fight.

“You know there’s no point in sneaking up on me.”

“Doesn’t mean I can’t try.” A cloaked figure stepped out the shadows and glanced at Aang. “Who’s your friend?”

“Not my friend.”

“Hi, I’m Aang!”

The figure hummed. “Piece of advice, don’t give out your name so willingly. You have no idea where your enemy may be lurking.”

Toph crossed her arms. “Aren’t you ominous.”

“I prefer cautious. Besides, you should be grateful. Running into your ‘friend’ here will spare you the brunt end of Mother’s scolding.”

“Please.” Toph scoffed.

“Uh, are you her sister?” Aang interrupted.

“Thankfully not.” She teased. “I’m Akina. My mother and I work at the herbalist shop.”

Aang’s heart quicken. “Does it by any chance have a white lotus on it?”

“Again with the directness, but yes.” She gestured for them to follow. “We’ve been expecting you.”

~*~

Surreal wasn’t even the right word. Which is saying something considering all Zuko has seen the past couple of years.

“W-What are you-“

Ursa held up her finger and glanced behind him. “The walls have ears. Quickly now.”

She quickly ushered the two inside then shut the door. The room was covered head to toe in various flowers and herbs. Ursa cleared off a table then gestured them over.

“Injury?”

“Burn. Maybe second degree.” Suki said through gritted teeth as Zuko helped her up.

“I have just the thing.”

Ursa opened some cabins and pulled out supplies.

“Mom-“

“How long has it been?”

“Uh… about an hour…”

“We don’t have much time.” She unwrapped Suki’s bandages then started cleaning them with a wet rag.

“Mom-“

“Zuko get me the Aloe cream from the cabins. Second to the left.”

“Wait a second!” Zuko shouted. “I thought you were dead! But you’ve been here this whole time and-“

“I know you want to talk, as do I. But your friend’s medical needs comes first.” Ursa said firmly. “Now fetch me the Aloe cream.”

Zuko bristled at her tone. Regardless, he obeyed while feeling like a scolded child. Suki looked between the two awkwardly.

“I don’t mind if you talk. Really-“

“Hush.” Ursa said sharply.

Suki clamped her mouth shut.

Zuko returned with the supplies and sat them on the table.

“How long have you been here?” he asked with more bite than intended.

“I told you we will talk later.”

“Is this why Uncle sent us here? Did he know this whole time as well?”

Ursa silently finished tying the bandages. “Go dump the dirty water out back. Be sure to avoid the garden.”

“Stop ignoring me!” Zuko rounded the table to face her. “What happened that night?! Where’s Azula?! Tell me please!”

Ursa closed her eyes and turned her face. Zuko’s heart broke.

“Mom…”

The back door suddenly opened, startling them. Zuko automatically pulled out his swords as three figures walked in. Much to his and Suki’s relief, one of them was their missing friend.

“Aang!” Suki said.

“Guys! Oh thank spirits!” Aang sighed. “I found my Earthbending master!”

“I never agreed to that.”

Zuko tuned them out as his eyes landed on the third person. “Azula?!”

“Hello Zuzu. Took you long enough.”

“What? How-“

“Eloquent as ever brother.”

“And where have you two been?!” Ursa asked heatedly.

“Out.” Toph said shortly.

“Don’t use that tone with me.”

“Can someone just explain what’s going on?!” Zuko shouted.

His question was once again ignored as arguments broke out. Toph suddenly tensed.

“GET DOWN!”

The second the words left her mouth, a high pitch ring sounded followed by an explosion that took out half the house. Toph bended a slab of rock to shield them from the bulk of it. The surviving plants caught on fire and spread quickly. As Ursa helped Suki out with Aang covering them, the others charged the attacker.

Azula gasped. “A Fire Yokai?!”

“A Fire what now?” Toph asked.

Zuko gritted his teeth. “You’re surrounded. Give up!”

The man calmly regarded them before suddenly launching another explosion this time at Toph. She formed a wall of Earth then launched it directly at the Fire Yokai. Without wasting a beat, the siblings rained fire down on him. The fire disappeared as he shoved the shattered rocks away. His skin glowed for a brief moment before attacking again, aiming far behind them towards the fleeing trio. Aang used his airbending to get Ursa and Suki out of the way in time. The energy blast struck a tree, causing it to explode and spray flaming debris everywhere.

Zuko slashed his calves again to further the injury. He was shocked to see it had already mended. Still, he was able to make the Yokai stumble back again. At the same time, Azula jumped over him and jabbed two electrocuted figures into his tattooed eye. The giant grunted as blue sparks danced around his body. The second he hit the ground, Toph encased him in solid Earth. It immediately began to crack. Zuko charged, ready for more, when Azula grabbed his arm.

“Fall back!”

Zuko hissed. He’ll get even later.

They dove into a tunnel Toph created seconds before the Fire Yokai broke free. He glared at the burning building and forest fire angrily; body still jolting from the shot of electricity. That actually hurt some.

Before this was just a job, but now it was personal.

~*~

The cool night air high in the clouds was a welcomed relief. When the flower shop set to flames, the group fled to the forest where Appa quickly found them. Despite flying for almost a week straight, the air bison was ready to go, along with the rest of them.

Zuko, however, could not enjoy the brief reprieve. He forced himself to wait until Ursa finished treating Suki before calling for his mother. Once again, she turned her head. Tears stung Zuko’s eyes. “Mom…”

“It’s late. We need to sleep while we can.“

Azula laid a hand over Ursa’s tighten fist. “He needs to know.”

Ursa glanced at her then closed her eyes. Zuko watched the interaction in utter confusion. His mother and sister were never very close from what he remembered. Finally, Ursa nodded.

“Okay. I’ll tell you.”

“We’ll move to Appa’s head to give you privacy.” Suki said as she placed a hand on Toph’s shoulder.

“No. You two need to hear this. So do you Avatar.”

Suprise crossed Aang’s face for a moment before he jumped up and drifted to the empty spot beside Toph.

“So, we finally get to hear how you became a spy.” Toph folder her arms.

“Spy?” Zuko questioned.

“Not spy.” Ursa corrected. “A White Lotus inside informant.”

~*~

The wall of fire burned dangerously hot, much like the one who sired them. Through the screen of living power, he glared at the figure kotowing lowly at the base of the golden throne.

“This better be important.”

“It is, my lord. The Great Spirit Agni has a personal message for you.”

“Really?” This was a surprise. “Finally some recognition. I know he is most pleased with the progress the Fire Nation is spreading across the world.”

The Head Fire Sage stiffened. “He stated the nation is to be punished for killing his sister Elder Spirit Tui.”

“WHAT?!” Fire shot up.

“And to cease the war lease there be more dire consequences!” The Head Fire Sage continued.

“How dare you utter such treasonous things in my presence!!!”

“Please Firelord, heed this warning! It is not treason if it is from our patron Elder Spirit!”

“It is treason if I say so!” he spat.

“Elder Agni is furious for what we’ve done!”

“Then he is a fool, as are you! If this so called great spirit is too blind and ungrateful to receive the glory of the Fire Nation, then it shall be all mine!”

The Head Fire Sage balked at him. He then pointed an accusing finger. “No Firelord Ozai, you are the true fool!”

Ozai sneered. “Take him to the gallows.”

“All of Elder Agni’s wrath will be upon your head!!!” he yelled as the guards dragged him out.

The fire burned bright and hotter as Ozai simmered. He worked way too hard and sacrificed far too much to throw it all away at the request of some spirit who knew nothing of the affairs of man. This was his nation, his throne, his legacy. Ozai wasn’t giving that up for anyone or anything. If that provoked the wrath of an Elder Spirit, then so be it.

Chapter Text

The ice cold water rushed through her gills as she swam deeper and deeper. Katara’s heart ached at the familiar and once comforting feeling. It’s been so long since she was home in her true form. Last time, she waited above alone and scared on an iceberg for an unknown fate. Just like Grandmother. Katara shook her head. She had to stay focus.

Soon, the distance song of the orca-eels that followed the tribe vibrated through the water. Katara’s tail lit up moments later. Someone was coming. She braced herself for a potential fight, but gasped when she realized who it was.

“Mom!”

“Katara! Oh my dear one!” Kya scooped her up in a tight embrace.

Katara nuzzled closer as her chest warmed. It was like she was a pup again. “I missed you so much, Mom.”

“I missed you too. I thought I’d never see you again.” Kya’s voice was thick with emotion. “But look at you!” She swam excitedly around her daughter. “How?”

“I asked the Elder Ocean Spirit to return my mermaid form.”

Confusion crossed Kya’s face but Katara spoke before she could ask any questions.

“I’ll explain everything soon, but first I need to-“

Katara stopped short as both she and Kya sensed more presences rapidly approaching. Kya nudged Katara back.

“Go. I’ll stall them.”

“No. I need to speak with them. That’s part of the reason I returned.”

“Katara-“

The guards surrounded them with spears drawn. Kya put a protective arm in front of her daughter and bared her sharp teeth.

“Stand down, Kya. You know the rules.”

“Over my dead body.” She growled.

The some of the guards parted as a large figure swam up followed by more mermen in decorative attire made from shells and bones. The leader bored a pained expression when he laid eyes on Katara.

“You should have not returned.”

“Dad…”

“Are you truly going to stand by and let them shred our daughter to bits?!” Kya demanded.

Hakoda’s grip on his spear tightened before he lowered his arms and let it slip out of his hands.

“No.”

The guards gaped at him.

“But sir, the rules.”

“I knew you let familial ties blind you! First the trial now, this!” One of the Elders said harshly as the others agreed.

“I know my daughter. She wouldn’t have risked breaking banishment unless she had no other choice.”

“So you admit it!”

“Stop!” Katara darted around her mother and swam between them. “Time is of the essence! This is about Elder Moon Spirit’s death!”

Everyone visibly stiffened. The wounds still remained during the dark moment when the ocean turned to pure agony without the scared light of the moon.

“I was there.” Katara continued. “I saw her die. I saw the Great Ocean mourn for his beloved. And I saw him avenge her. But the vengeance is not complete.”

Katara pointed towards the surface. “Our brothers and sisters still suffer at the hands of the Land of Fire. And that suffering has only grown worse. I’ve seen the horrible things they’ve done to all tribes. And now they know of our existence, they will not rest until they finish what they started 100 years ago. Even under the waves, none of us are safe.”

“That’s ridiculous!” An Elder scoffed. “How can mere humans slay merfolk?”

“The same way they wiped those who could control the very wind.” Katara countered. “We’ve forgotten what drove our ancestors to the ocean in the first place!”

The Elder looked away shamefaced.

“What do you suggest, daughter?” Kya asked.

“It is high time we join the fight and aid our sister tribe in battle! Sokka is there now aiding in recovery and battle preparation. The rest of my friends are helping the Avatar master his elements.”

Everyone looked at her in complete shock. “The Avatar has returned?”

Hakoda and Kya glanced at each other. They remembered the day their pups found the frozen child in the iceberg. Everything was starting to make sense now.

“Yes.” Katara nodded firmly. “Sokka and I have been aiding him on his journey with the help other brave humans. Including the prince from the land of fire.”

“Not only have you made contact with humans, you aligned yourself with the very kind that wiped out most of our ancestors?!” an Elder protested.

“Golden Eyes is not his forefathers! He is good and saved my life, even helped restore my mermaid form. His forces, along with our sister tribe, are planning to overthrow the existing rulers of the land of fire. With our combined efforts, we will turn the tide of the war and gain freedom for all creatures!”

There was a brief moment of silence before Hakoda spoke.

“Captain Bato. Return to base and call the other captains in for a meeting. We have travel plans and battled strategy to discuss.”

“Right away.”

“You can’t be serious!” the Elders protested. “We need to discuss this first!”

“We all felt the Great Ocean Spirit’s mourning.” He rest a hand over his scarred chest. “It is high time we aid our brothers and sisters.”

Katara beamed. She knew if she was above surface, she would be crying tears of joy. As the guards and elders left, Hakoda opened his arms which Katara quickly swam into.

“I’m so sorry, my pup.”

“It’s not your fault.”

Hakoda visibly relaxed with relief as Kya joined the hug.

“I will make things right for all of us.” He promised.

The family remained there soaking up the moment before breaking apart to attend the meeting.

“I’ll catch up with you soon.” Katara told her mother as they swam towards the tribe. “I need to tell my gran- uh, friend the good news. She’s waiting on the icebergs right outside the Southern waters.”

“Oh, I will catch her some supper then.” Kya offered.

Katara thanked her as her parents swam off. She then quickly returned to the surface. It took her little time to find the iceberg Kanna rested on.

“Grandmother!”

The older woman greeted the excited mermaid at the edge.

“Good news, I take it.”

“Yes, very! The tribe has agreed to help!”

“I never doubted you.”

Kanna kissed her cheek again. A harsh wind blew past, causing Kanna to shiver. Katara cupped her hands around her as a shield.

“Will you be alright for the night?”

“Don’t fret, my precious one. These old bones can still handle the chill.” Kanna reassured her. “How about you get some rest. We all have an early rise tomorrow.”

Katara frowned. She didn’t like the idea of leaving her grandmother alone on the ice, even if it was only until morning, but there was no other choice. She was too tired to tread water for the night much less attempt to shift into human form.

“Very well then.” She agreed reluctantly. “My mother will bring food soon and I will find something to keep you warm.”

“Thank you, Katara.”

Kanna let out a tired sigh after her granddaughter dove back under water. How bittersweet everything was. She wrapped her blanket tighter then let her weary eyes drift shut. After some time later, something tugged at her heart strings, waking her. Kanna sat up in time to see a large head rose from the water with familiar swirling blue eyes. Her heart leapt.

“You must be the one aiding my daughter.”

Kanna nodded. “Y-Yes. I am.”

Hakoda dipped his head. “My many thanks.” He placed a turtle-seal and several rock down beside her. “My wife caught your supper. And here are some deep sea venation rocks to keep you warm.”

Kanna gazed at him with watery eyes.

Hakoda stiffened, worrying that he frightened her. “Are you alright?”

“Yes! Yes.” She took a deep breath. “Thank you Hakoda.”

“You are most welcome. We will be ready to move out by dawn.” He said before diving under.

Hakoda found it strange Katara gave out his name to the human. His daughter must greatly trust her. She must have been the one to help Katara while she was stuck in human form. Hakoda’s heart twisted at the thought. He was only comforted by knowing Katara is well now and was well taken care of. She was a good woman. Hakoda felt it in his bones.

~*~

“It all started the night we received news of Prince Lu Ten’s death.” Ursa explained. “Your father asked for Iroh’s birthright on the guise of Iroh no longer having any heirs, and greatly offended the Firelord. So he decided that Ozai must lose something in return.”

Zuko’s breath hitched. “Me.”

Ursa looked at him with watery eyes. “Yes.” She glanced away, steeling herself. “When Azula warned me, Ozai and I devised a plan to get rid of the Firelord.”

Zuko swallowed. He remembered the night well. The hazy dream of Ursa saying goodbye. Ozai’s stone cold silence in the garden. News of Firelord Azulon’s death sending the palace in an uproar.

“They said he passed from a heart attack.”

“Moonflower extract would do that to you.”

The rest of the group glanced uneasily at each other.

“Only Ozai knows. And he does not like having lose ends. I agreed to banishment but only if he promised not you harm you or Azula.”

Zuko bristled.

“We all know how that turned out.” Azula muttered.

“I knew Ozai is not a man of his word but I had allies within the walls. Yet still, he had me followed and attempted an assassination.”

Zuko’s grip on his knees tightened.

“I was recused by the Leader of the White Lotus. I believe you’ve met her already.”

“Oh yes. That’s Katara and Sokka’s grandmother!” Aang said.

Ursa nodded. “She invited me to join the organization. During my time wandering, I saw firsthand the horrors my nation put other through. So I agreed and fed them information gathered from my allies within the palace walls.”

Ursa returned her gaze to Zuko.

“W-When I heard what he did to you I…” She took a moment to gather herself. “I was able to sneak inside the palace after the Agni Kai thanks to my spies and the tunnels. But by the time I arrived, you had already fled.”

“So she took me instead.” Azula explained.

“Why? You were father’s favorite.” Zuko said.

“You truly know nothing.” Azula scoffed. “Father’s favor always has a cost. Always.”

She pulled her sleeve down further. Zuko felt sick.

Ursa continued. “After escaping, I ran into Iroh and introduced him to the White Lotus organization. When we heard you were alive and joined the Avatar, we knew it was time to help personally. Ozai must pay for his crimes.”

She looked to the rest of Team Avatar.

“The Fire Nation must pay for our crimes. All of them.”

Zuko glanced away. It was a lot to process at once.

Ursa held his hand. “Please know, I never wanted to leave you.” Ursa held Azula’s hand. “Any of you.”

“We know, Mom.” Azula answered for both of them.

“So, what’s our next move?” Zuko asked solemnly.

“Grand Leader Kanna set up a meeting place in Ba Sing Se to regroup at should anything happened. Set a course for there.” Ursa answered. “Of course, we’ll need more allies to pull off a successful coup.”

Suki spoke up. “We have an alliance with the Southern and Northern Water Tribe armies, as well as volunteers from the Earth Kingdom. We just need time to organize and an opportunity to strike.”

Ursa and Azula exchanged glances.

“…The Southern Water Tribe?”

“They’re dead.” Azula bluntly.

“They’re merfolk.” Zuko corrected. “Their ancestors made a deal with the Ocean Spirit to transform them, now they’re ready to help take down Ozai.”

Ursa, Azula, and Toph stared in utter disbelief. The Fire Yokai attack was hard to believe, but now actual real merfolk?

“You’re kidding. Toph read his feet or whatever.” Azula ordered.

“We’re miles in the sky, genius.” She rubbed aching head. “I did not sign up for this.”

“I know it sounds crazy, but it’s true!” Aang reassured them.

“How did encounter merfolk?” Ursa asked.

Zuko sighed heavily. “It’s a long story.”

“Well, it is a long long way to Ba Sing Se.” Aang nudged his shoulder.

Zuko rolled his eyes but gave in.

“Alright. It all started after I fled home after the Agni Kai. A mermaid recused me from a storm.” A small smile grew on his face. “Her name is Katara.”

Chapter Text

Zuko stared towards the horizon as water lapped at his knees. Sweat poured down his head and back, soaking his clothes and irritating his skin. The heat was unbearable even for a firebender. The Fire Nation was always the hottest during this time of year, but it was as if the sun itself was sucking out energy instead of providing it.

Everyone had already taken shelter in the varies tents in their makeshift camp, except Azula and Aang who were still practicing firebending. Yet still, Zuko remained posted at the edge of the sea, waiting.

A shadow fell over him. Zuko’s hand immediately gripped his swords hilt, but relaxed when he who it was.

“Mom-“

“You’ll catch sun sickness standing out here unprotected.” She adjusted the umbrella to shield them both, then pulled out a water pouch. “Have you drunk any water today?”

“There’s not much to spare. We need to save it for when the rest of the army arrives.”

Fresh water was becoming harder and harder to find due to the fierce drought. The worst one in recorded history, people say. Everyone was suffering from lack of water and food, regardless of class or status.

The temples had never been busier as people begged the Elder Sun Spirit for mercy. As usual, he did nothing. At least the Elder Ocean and Moon Spirits helped their people occasionally.

“There will be plenty once the waterbenders arrive. Drink.”

Zuko sighed but obeyed regardless. Small sips. Azula and Aang still needed to drink after training. Ursa knew the pouch was still mostly full when Zuko returned it, but didn’t press.

“Remember our trips to Ember Island? You used to stand on the shore staring at the waters like this, until the incident.”

“When I almost drowned, but father saved me.” Zuko said bluntly.

Ursa stiffened. “Yes.”

Zuko’s heart sank. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize. I am the one who brought it up.” Ursa sighed deeply. “There was a time we were happy together. Or at least, I believed we were. It felt like a spirit tale, marrying into royalty. But some things were never meant to be.”

Zuko swallowed thickly, suddenly wishing he drank more water but not daring to ask for more.

“He made his choice.” Ursa said bitterly. “Regardless, I’m relieved you are no longer scared of the ocean.”

Zuko gapped at her. “Scared?! I was never scared!”

“You climbed up my leg like a baby kola possum when I tried to guide you back in.” Ursa laughed.

“Mom!”

“Oh let me reminisce. You’ll understand once you have your own children.”

Children. Was that even possible with…

Zuko pointedly returned his gaze to the ocean.

“Lady Ursa! You’re requested inside!” a former Fire Nation soldier, scarcely past 16, called.

Soldiers had been deserting in recorded numbers, especially the younger ones. It was hard to inspire nationalism when your family was starving and the government wasn’t doing a thing about it. Master Piandao took advantage of the situation and rounded up a bunch to join the resistance.

“On my way.” Ursa gave Zuko the umbrella then squeezed his shoulder. “She’ll come.”

Zuko threw her a surprised glance, but Ursa was already making her way to the tents. He grunted the returned his attention to the horizon.

Katara.

Where are you?

~*~

At dusk, wooden boats with pale blue sails appeared over the horizon.

Zuko’s heart leapt. They’ve arrived!

He was among the first to greet the boats as they docked. Some of the Northen Water Tribe warriors exited first, clearly uncomfortable in the dry heat despite the much lighter garments they now wore. Pakku blatantly ignored the group while Tulok gave them a polite nod. Behind him was Yue. Her stern expression brighten immediately when she saw Zuko, Suki, and Aang.

“My friends!”

“Yue!”

She broke away from formation and hugged them. “Oh, I missed you all so much!”

“Thank you for joining us.” Piandao bowed politely.

“Of course.” Yue said. “It’s the least we can do after you helped us during the Siege.”

It was agreed to rest for the night, then discuss strategy in the morning. Some of the waterbenders set to work purifying ocean water for much needed drinking water while the others went off with Piandao. Yue dismissed her guards then went off with her friends.

“So, guess the Chiefess position is firmly secured then.” Suki said.

“Not fully. I’m still deciding honestly.”

“Alright. Don’t take too long or another Hahn will spring up.”

Yue sighed. “Trust me. I’m well aware. I think the only reason that has not happened yet is because they’re still terrified of Sokka.”

“Speaking of which, where is he?” Zuko asked while gazing over the ocean.

She rubbed her necklace. “When we reached the bay, he said he sensed his pod close by. I told him go ahead and greet them. He’s been eager to see them again.”

“Really?!” Zuko said, in a rare show of excitement.

“Yes really.” Yue giggled. “I can’t wait to see Katara, as well. It’s been so long.”

“Yeah so much has happened!” Aang exclaimed. “Oh, you must meet our new friends!”

He led her to a small campfire at the edge of the main site where Toph and Azula were already gathered.

“So, you’re the Moon Chiefess Suki said married the giant fish.” Toph said jokingly.

“Suki!” Yue scolded playfully.

She shrugged. “It’s true.”

“Personally, I prefer badgermoles, but to each their own. The name’s Toph. Greatest Earthbender in the world and Twinkle Toes’ Earthbender Sifu.” She punched Aang’s arm.

“You finally admit it.” He said smugly.

“Duh. I’ve always been the greatest!”

“You sure are.” Aang said softly.

No one missed the pink tint that briefly appeared on Toph’s checks. Azula introduced herself next.

“Azula. Former Fire Princess and the Avatar’s Firebender Sifu.” She said shortly.

“Pleasure to meet you both.” Yue smiled.

The rest of the night was spent exchanging stories and catching up with one another. Zuko was beyond glad to have his friends back together. It truly felt like old times. Almost. Katara and Sokka’s absence was heavy, but at least he knew they were close by this time compared to the last.

“No, I’m telling you. King Kuei’s pet was a bear.” Aang explained. “Not platypus bear or bear dog. Just… bear.”

Yue cocked her head to the side. “What would that even look like?”

“Just imagine the bear necessities.” Suki joked.

Even more laughter broke out. Zuko noticed Azula quietly slipping away. He gave it a few moments before following. Zuko quickly found her standing on the shore on almost the same spot he had been earlier that day.

“Hey.”

“What do you want?” Azula snapped.

“I was just checking on you.” Zuko defended. “What’s wrong?”

“Wrong? No everything’s perfect. The North barely sent us any warriors. Uncle’s army of Earth Kingdom peasants is late. Each day is another closer us being discovered in this dump. And we’re just sitting around sharing spirit tales about magic swamps and giant fish people while the nation is dying along with Father.”

Zuko’s heart tightened.

“You know it’s true. That’s the only way to stop him.” Azula said lowly.

“Then so be it.” Zuko said bitterly.

“I was planning on assassinating him once I turned old enough to take the throne anyway.” Azula shrugged off.

“Why am I not surprised?” Zuko said drily.

“It’s family tradition. Don’t worry, brother. I’ll be sure to make yours’ quick.”

“I don’t want to be Firelord.” Zuko said bluntly, surprising himself.

“I know.” Azula said quietly.

Shame crept through Zuko. He knew taking the throne was key to bringing balance and restoring honor to the Fire Nation. But it didn’t feel right. His heart had merged with the sea. With her.

Taking the throne, meant saying goodbye permanently.

“You don’t have to rule, you know. Uncle loves to wax flowery proverbs, but nothing is written in stone. Most of the nation has long since agreed the war is pointless if we all wipe each other out.”

Zuko glanced at his sister suspiciously. “Do you actually mean that or are you just trying to get the throne?”

“Yes.” Azula flipped her bane. “Besides, you’re woefully unprepared to rule. Even with Mom and Uncle’s help.”

Zuko tsked.

“Consider it. I would hate to assassinate you right when you started being tolerable.”

“You’re the one to talk.”

Azula let out a short laugh. “I’m going to bed. Some of us did actual work today.”

Zuko stayed on the shore and returned his attention towards the horizon. A world free from both the war and throne sounded too good to be true. Could everything truly work out that well? He of all people should know the answer, but he couldn’t help but hope.

~*~

A high pitch whistle shot through the night followed by a loud explosion. Zuko jolted awake, not remembering falling asleep on the shore in the first place. He turned saw several tents on fire. A hulking figure trudged through the flames. Zuko cursed.

That guy again!

Toph swore up and down she locked him in a metal cage with no way out back in Ba Sing Se then buried it for good measure. Kanna mentioned in her letters it took a spirit-touched to kill another and Zuko was starting to think she was right.

He pulled out his swords and raced into the camp. More commotion stirred up as soldiers clad in red and black spread through the camp. Azula was right. They waited too long.

Zuko raced toward the tent Ursa resided, taking out Fire Nation soldiers along the way. Word must not get back to the Firelord about their invasion plans. He found Ursa hastily burning scrolls as Azula fought off some nearby soldiers. Zuko helped finish them off.

“The others?!” Zuko demanded.

“No time!” Ursa tossed the last of the incriminating scrolls into a fire pile. “Get to the rendezvous point before-“

Another high pitch whistle shot by. All three hit the dirt right as the tent was blown off. Out of the flames emerged the Fire Yokai.

“Mom run!”

The siblings attacked despite knowing their blows were useless. This was merely a distraction. A procrastination to delay the inevitable.

A sudden rock pillar launched the Fire Yokai away from them towards the ocean.

“Go!” Toph yelled while burying him once again. “It won’t hold him long!”

The family took off, with Toph close behind. Up ahead, Zuko saw the rest of his friends battling the soldiers. It was close, but they could just make it without getting discovered.

Another explosion sounded, as the Fire Yokai crawled out of the hole, eyes glowing. He wasn’t supposed to recover that quickly! Somehow, he was getting stronger, which meant finding them faster. With the day of the Black Sun so close, no slip ups could be afforded.

Knowing what he had to do, Zuko broke off from the group and charged the Fire Yokai, despite his friends’ warnings. They needed time to escape, and Zuko would provide that.

He narrowly dodged another mind explosion and attacked. The Fire Yokai easily blocked the swords with his arm. Zuko had expected this and darted around prepare to spin the cursed assassin in circles. He did not expect him grabbing his leg with a sudden quickness and slamming Zuko into the ground hard. The swords were knocked out of his hands as he struggled to catch his wind.

A large foot pressed against his chest, preventing escape. The world distorted and the calls of his friends screaming his name sounded blurry and distance. The Fire Yokai loomed over him staring hatefully. His third eye glowed, followed by that awful high pitch whistle. Zuko braced himself.

Bending didn’t work on him. The others couldn’t intervene without hurting him in the crossfire.

This time, it was actually it.

Water suddenly encased the Fire Yokai’s head then froze it rock solid. His eyes widen in shock before he was yanked up then dragged under the waves. Zuko shot up coughing. He turned around in time to see a large explosion erupted underwater. A bright light shot straight up as ocean water and meaty chunks sprayed all over the camp dosing the fires.

A large head with glowing tattoos emerged from the water, followed by several others.

Zuko beamed. “Katara.”

She returned the smile with her own toothy grin.

“Golden eyes.”