Book 1: Clouded Waters

Yo Ho Ho and a Bottle of No

     Time seemed to slip away when they regrouped with their ship. Zuko was more pumped than ever to get his hands on the Avatar. Hikari, while ready to see the trio again, asked Iroh to remind her never to stand up to Zhao again. She had realized soon after that what she had done was reckless. The commander had most likely spared her only because he was focused on the Avatar. Next time, she would really need to watch her mouth.

     Three days had passed since the encounter at the Fire Nation Temple. The prince had taken it upon himself to train all the more. The brunette had the right mind to join him. It was nice to take the initiative.

     The two teenagers were on deck with another crew member. It was mock battle. The training was every man for himself. Sometimes, they would gang up on each other, or fight separately to throw each other off. It was challenging and fun.

     The younger male had just sent a flame kick towards his opponent. The girl was about to use her chain to tie down her friend. That was the plan until the boat made a sudden turn. Hikari, had to throw her weapon aside when she fell over.

     "Someone's changing our course," the Zuko shouted.

     "No duh!" Hikari picked herself up, "Otherwise, I wouldn't have fallen."

     "You need to learn to stand your ground."

     "Like you didn't run into the railing."

     "I'm going to see what's going on."

     The teen stormed off, leaving the girl with the other firebender. Instead of sticking around, she followed her friend to see who had caused the ship follow a new course. He was storming up the many flights of stairs, ready to confront the culprit.

     The angsty teen threw the door open, and went up to the captain, "What is the meaning of this mutiny? No one told you to change course!"

     "Actually, someone did." Iroh was playing Pai Sho with some of the crew, "I assure you, it is a matter of utmost importance, Prince Zuko."

     "Is it something to do with the Avatar?"

     "Even more urgent. It seems, I-" The old man rubbed his forehead, "I have lost my lotus tile."

     "Lotus tile?"

     "For my Pai Sho game. Most people think the lotus tile insignificant, but it is essential for the unusual strategy that I employ."

     Hikari crossed her arms and raised a brow, "Are you sure you check your sleeves, Uncle."

     "You've changed our course for a stupid lotus tile," Zuko asked in disbelief.

     "See, you, like most people, underestimate it's value. Just give me ten minutes to check the merchants at this port of call." Iroh got excited, "Hopefully, they will have the lotus tile in stock and I can get on with my life." At this, Zuko breathed out fire towards the ceiling, releasing smoke into the room as well, "I'm lucky to have such an understanding nephew."

     The brunette went sit by her uncle, "I'm asking again. Are you sure you checked your sleeves?"

     "I am sure. I've checked twice already!"

     "Alright... Can I play a round?"

     For the next few hours, the pair played Pai Sho. That had been what occupied them until they reached the port.

     Hikari was excited to be on land again. The place was lively and full of egger sellers. People shouted their great deals. Others offered their food and special treats. Iroh was taking his sweet time at each stall, even going as far as to buy an item even though he didn't find his tile. Zuko was standing by with an aggravated look. He even demanded every time if they found what they needed yet.