.23 The Waterbending Master

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As the weather got cooler the sky grew bluer and clouds disappeared. Ice poked out of the frosty water and tickled at Appa's bely due to him flying so low on the water out of tiredness.

Everyone was exhausted and hungry after flying for 2 days straight and seeing no sign of the northern water tribe yet, just endless miles of sea.

Nothing interesting had happened either, just smooth, quiet flying that left them alone with their thoughts.

A sudden burst of water that froze into ice startled Appa; causing him to fly out of the water. More of the ocean transformed into ice, grabbing at his feet and pulling him back into the water. Boats carrying members of the water tribes revealed behind numerous ice blocks.

"They're waterbenders, we found the water tribe!" Katara cheered.

The waterbenders advised Appa to follow them, leading them towards the grand northern water tribe made entirely of ice and surrounded completely by water.

It was protected by a large wall of ice with the waterbending symbol carved into it and no entrance unless a waterbender was present.
They bended part of the wall, creating a large enough hole for Appa to swim through so they could further see the rest of the tribe.

Dozens of waterbenders waited on the other side, bending another wall and allowing them to pass. Channels of water ran through the tribe, connecting everything and creating paths for boats.

People watched from above, standing on platforms all around the canal made completely from ice, waving down at them. Aang waved back, excited to be here.

"This place is beautiful," Katara smiled brightly.

The water tribe members showed Sokka, Aang, Katara and Iskra to a large iceberg they would be staying in, allowing them to settle down before inviting them to a feast at night.

Once the moon rose they all headed to the destination, eager for some food and to find Aang and Katara a waterbending master.

Drums rung throughout the icy temple, creating a worldly atmosphere whilst food was prepared in the centre.

"Tonight, we celebrate the arrival of our brother and sister from the southern tribe," The chief stands up, drawing everyone's attention. "And have brought with them someone very special, someone who many of us believe disappeared from the world until now: the avatar."

Everyone cheered, applauding Aang and he smiled sheepishly, waving back with pure gratitude.

"We also celebrate my daughters 16th birthday, Princess Yue is now of marrying age," The chief introduces his daughter.

"Thank you father, may the great Ocean and Moon spirits watch over us during these troubled times," Princess Yue speaks wisely.

Princess Yue was very beautiful. She possessed white, gorgeous hair and prominent blue eyes that stood out against her clear skin.

"Now, Master Pakku and his students will perform!" Chief points to 3 people on the opposite side of the temple.

They bended water within pots, moulding into vast shapes and creating an incredible scene for everyone to watch as they ate.

"Iskra have you ever been in love?" Sokka asks dreamily, blush covering his cheeks from just talking to Yue.

"You haven't even known her for a day," Iskra chuckles.

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