Alu - The Gateway to the spirit realm

Southern Air Temple

Alu Pov

As our ship docks uncle, Zuko and I walk down the ramp and onto the dock. Zuko is looking stressed as ever but I can't really blame him this time for Spirits sake I spoke to the avatar!

Zuko - Uncle, I want the repairs made as quickly as possible. I don't want to stay to long and risk loosing his trail.

Iroh - You mean the Avatar?

Zuko spins around to look at me and Uncle Iroh.

Zuko - Don't mention his name on these docks. Once word gets out that he's alive, every fire bender will be out looking for him, and I don't want anyone getting in the way.

Zuko side eyes me and I feel slightly offended and huff.

Zhao - Getting of the way of what? Prince Zuko.

Zuko and Zhao face each other arms crossed like a stand off.

Zuko - General Zhao.

Zhao - it's commander now. And general Iroh, great hero of our nation.

Uncle smiles.

Iroh - Retired general.

Commander Zhao looks down on us no smile and with his hands behind his back it looks kinda uncomfortable to be honest.

Zhao - The fire Lords brother and son are welcome guests anytime.

I look at him raising an eye brow, crossing my arms.

Alu - Excuse me Commander, I'm here too.

He looks at me with distaste but then puts on a crooked smile that make me feel awkward.

Zhao - Ah yes, My apologies Princess Alu as a non bender and the youngest you sometimes slip my mind.

I look away kind of hurt rubbing the side of my arm, Zuko growls but Zhao continues.

Zhao.- what brings you to my harbour

Uncle Iroh answers pointing at the ship.

Iroh - our ship need repairs.

General Zhao looks dumbstruck.

Zhao - That's quite a bit of damage.

Zuko - Yes. You wouldn't believe what happened. Uncle tell him what happened.

Uncle was snapped out of his trance trying to think of an excuse.

Iroh - yes I will do that. It was incredible. What, did we crash or something?

Zuko - Yes! Right into an earth kingdom ship.

Alu - Yeah, massive collision.

We all try to improvise but I don't think Zhao is buying it.

Zhao - Really? You must regale me with all the thrilling details.

He gets really close to Zuko's face.

Zaho - Join me for a drink?

Zuko grabs my hand and I look up at him confused.

Zuko - Sorry but we have to go.

He starts walking away with me in tow until uncle Iroh calls on him.

Iroh - Prince Zuko, show commander Zhao your respect. We would be honoured to join you. Do you have any Ginseng tea? It's my favourite.

Uncle and Commander Zhao walk away and I look at Zuko he seems annoyed.

Alu - Don't worry we'll have some tea and go on our way.