The One That Got Away | Kataang

Chapter 19- Plans And Conversations

Katara and Aang pushed open the heavy doors of the war room, a stark contrast to the idyllic setting they had just left. Inside, the atmosphere crackled with tension. Sokka and Zuko sat hunched over a map, their brows furrowed in concentration. General Takumi stood beside them, his gaze snapping towards the entrance as they entered.

"Aang! Good to see you back on your feet!" boomed the General, a cheerful smile spreading across his face. "How are you feeling?" the general asked. "Much better, General, thanks to Katara's healing ability. She truly is the best waterbender in the world" He shot Katara a grateful glance, who blushed a delicate rose color at the compliment.

Sokka couldn't help but notice the playful interaction between his sister and Aang. A stark contrast to the somber mood they had both harbored just days ago. Both seemed to radiate a newfound happiness, their smiles genuine and unguarded. "Well then" Zuko interjected, his voice laced with a hint of concern, "have you managed to regain all your memories?" Aang hesitated, a blush creeping up his neck. He nods, causing a collective look of surprise to wash over the faces of his friends. "When? How?" Sokka blurted out, his curiosity piqued. "Yesterday" Aang mumbled, his gaze darting towards Katara. "And as for how... let's just say Katara played a significant role" he blushed at the thought of the kiss that brought up all his memories.

Sokka scrutinized the two of them, their shy smiles and lingering glances confirming his suspicions. A spark had rekindled between them. "Wait, is that what's in the envelope?" he asked, his voice laced with amusement. Aang smirked. "Let's just say it aided in the process" he said. Sokka yearned to pry further, to get the juicy details of their reconciliation, but there were more pressing matters at hand.

Aang stirred in his chair, eager to change the topic. "Anything new happening around here? Anything change while I was recovering?" he asked, a hopeful lilt in his voice. General Takumi stroked his beard thoughtfully. "There are a few developments" he began, his voice measured. Aang sat forward, his curiosity piqued.

"First" the General continued, his gaze sweeping over the group, "is the matter of Bumi's successor. It seems we've caught a promising lead. Apparently, the late King had an aunt with descendants still residing here in Omashu. We're currently tracing their family lineage, and I'm confident we'll identify the heir soon enough." Relief washed over Aang. Hearing that his earthbending friend would have a rightful successor to take the reins of Omashu brought a smile to his face. "That's excellent news" he acknowledged, nodding. "Anything else?"

Sokka and Zuko exchanged a pointed look before Zuko took center stage. "We believe we've pinpointed the source of Arashi's power" he announced, his voice grim. Katara's brow furrowed. "That strange stone she carries, right?" she inquired, and Sokka offered a curt confirmation. "Our suspicion" Zuko elaborated, leaning forward, "is that the stone is somehow imbued with the essence of the Moon Spirit – the one that died before Yue saved it" Aang pursed his lips in contemplation. "We're currently waiting for some kind of sign from Arashi" Zuko continued. "As soon as we have a lead, we'll move to neutralize the stone" he said. 

"Earthbending could help this situation," Aang interjected, offering his expertise. The group fell into a focused discussion, strategizing their next move. A sudden realization struck Aang, jolting him from his concentration. "Kyoshi!" he exclaimed. "I haven't spoken to her yet. I should do that today" A collective look of understanding passed between them. "Absolutely" the General concurred. "Perhaps Kyoshi holds some insight into Arashi's motives. Any information gleaned from her could prove crucial in anticipating her next target" The fire lord said. Aang wasted no time. With a determined nod, he rose from his chair and headed towards his quarters, the weight of their mission pressing heavily on him.

Aang pushed open the door to his room, the weight of responsibility settling on his shoulders. He sank onto the bed, assuming a meditative pose. With a deep breath, he closed his eyes, focusing his spirit inward. A tingling sensation spread through him, and a figure materialized before him – Avatar Kyoshi, tall and imposing. "Young Avatar" Kyoshi boomed, her voice echoing in the stillness. "What troubles you?" she asked. "Great Avatar Kyoshi" Aang began, his voice laced with urgency, "the world faces a grave threat, and I fear it may be linked to one of your past journeys" he explained. Kyoshi's piercing gaze narrowed. "Arashi" she stated simply. Aang, heart pounding, offered a confirming nod. "For many years you have been dealing with her, young avatar, and if I could have helped before I would have" Kyoshi continued, her voice heavy. Aang swallowed hard.