Zuko rode off without another word, his heart heavy with the knowledge that he was leaving a piece of himself behind. He knew that Kira had the determination and spirit he admired, and he could only hope that she would stay safe. As he rode away, he glanced over his shoulder one last time, searching for any sign of her.Kira, meanwhile, had watched Zuko ride off before turning to Sela and Lee. "I'm sorry," she said, her voice choked with emotion. "I just can't stay here. I need to help stopping this war and I have to learn how to fight. "Sela and Lee exchanged worried glances, but they knew there was no stopping her. They hugged her tightly, promising to stay safe and to keep an eye out for her if she ever decided to return.With a final wave, Kira set off after Zuko, her heart racing with excitement and fear in equal measure. She followed the trail of dust left by Zuko's horse, determined not to lose sight of him. Hours passed, and Kira began to lose hope. The trail had grown fainter, and she had no idea where Zuko could be. Just as she was about to turn back, she spotted him ahead, resting beneath a tree. She hesitated for a moment, unsure if she should approach him, before finally deciding to do so.Quietly, she crept forward, careful not to make any noise. When she was close enough, she cleared her throat to get Zuko's attention. He turned his head in her direction, his expression surprised."What do you think you are doing?", Zuko asked sharply.Kira looked at Zuko with determination. "I can't just stay here and watch idly as you put yourself in danger," she began. "The Fire Nation took my family, and I refuse to continue feeling like a weakling. I want to learn to defend myself, and I believe I can only do that if I go with you."Zuko glared at Kira, his expression a mixture of anger and frustration. "You have no idea what you're getting yourself into," he growled. "You can't just expect to follow me around and learn how to fight like that. You don't even know me!"He paused for a moment, his brow furrowing as he took in her determined expression. "And what do you mean, you can't just stay here?" he demanded. "You're not a part of my team. You're just some kid who showed up out of nowhere, asking for help."He let out a sigh, running a hand through his hair in exasperation. "Look, Kira, I appreciate your enthusiasm, but you need to find someone else to train you. There's no room for distractions like you on this mission."Kira felt a sting in her chest at Zuko's words, but she refused to let it show on her face. "I understand," she said, her voice steady. "There is nobody but you who can teach me, everyone left for the war. The only people left are the corrupt soldiers." She paused, taking a deep breath. "But please, Mushi, I can help. I know I can. I just need your guidance."Zuko hesitated, conflicted by his own thoughts. He knew that traveling with Kira would complicate things, especially considering his allegiance to the Fire Nation. But he also saw the advantages of having a companion, particularly one who was unfamiliar with his true identity. Zuko found himself torn. On one hand, traveling with Kira could provide him with a sense of security and anonymity. On the other hand, he couldn't ignore the fact that he was a member of the Fire Nation, the very enemy Kira sought to oppose. He needed to proceed with caution, knowing that their journey together could be fraught with peril."You could put us both in danger, Kira," Zuko finally admitted. "But I suppose having someone with me could be advantageous... as long as you promise to part ways if I decide it's necessary." He held out his hand, offering her a handshake. "Deal?"Kira hesitated for a moment before shaking his hand. "Deal," she said, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Thank you, Mushi."They mounted the ostrich horse together.Kira was brimming with excitement, and Zuko began to regret bringing her along. "Where are we even going?" she asked eagerly. Zuko rolled his eyes and sighed. Though it was a legitimate question, his mission to capture the Avatar was anything but straightforward. Zuko didn't even know how to proceed. "We're heading further into the Earth Kingdom for now," he replied eventually. He knew the Avatar must be searching for an Earthbending master, so it didn't seem like a bad idea.
As they sat by the campfire, the crackling flames casting dancing shadows around them, there was a moment of quiet contemplation between Zuko and Kira. The flickering light highlighted the contours of their faces, accentuating the intensity of their shared journey.Kira gazed into the flames, her thoughts drifting as she pondered their uncertain future. She felt a sense of camaraderie with Zuko, a connection forged through adversity and shared experiences. Lost in her thoughts, she absentmindedly reached for a stick to poke at the embers, the warmth of the fire comforting against the cool night air. Kira broke the silence, "Do you have anyone out there?" she finally asked him. "My uncle, yes. I hope to see him again soon. I think you would like him," Zuko replied, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. She smiled back, "I would love to meet him." Zuko fell silent for a long moment, thoughts of his family, his sister, and his father occupying his mind. Though they were his closest blood relatives, he longed only for Uncle Iroh. "Do you have anyone?" he finally asked in return. "No... My parents and my sister were taken from me," she replied softly. "I'm sorry," Zuko said, looking at her with compassion. "I'll take the first watch. Try to get some sleep."
