The Heat that Drives the Light

Chapter 5

Aang and Katara were leaving today, so we all had breakfast together one last time. It was somewhat bittersweet as we sat down at the table and laughed with each other.

Aang and Katara promised to come and visit all the time while they traveled the world. I could tell Sokka was getting upset and I didn't really blame him. I was somewhat upset too and even though she didn't show it, so was Toph.

"We'll miss you all so much," Katara said while patting Sokka on the back softly. The boy was sobbing uncontrollably and if it wasn't such a heartfelt moment then I would have made fun of him.

"Promise?" Sokka asked as he sniffled.

"Sokka she's not leaving forever, and she'll probably be back in a few weeks anyway to check on you," I said.

"Yeah!" Aang shouted, "we promise to come and visit you guys all the time, and we can even go on vacation together at all the places we've visited-"

"Don't get too ahead of yourself Twinkle Toes," Toph cut in. Sokka seemed to feel a little better at that and half-heartedly began picking at his food. I glanced at Zuko who was watching the whole scene play out.

I smiled warmly at him and reached for his hand under the table.

"We better get packing." Katara said and Aang got up to follow, "We will see all of you in a half hour."

Everyone ended up getting up and leaving and heading to their rooms until it was time to say goodbye. Zuko offered me his hand and I took it.

We walked down the hallway for a little bit before Zuko started talking.

"After what happened last night, I decided that it would be best if you have some guards watching you," he said.

"You want someone to babysit me?" I questioned, "Zuko, I can handle myself."

"I know, I know. I don't doubt that you can take anyone down," He said, "But wouldn't you want to have backup in case?"

"Well I suppose so. If it does make you feel better than I'll do it," I sighed, "I just don't want you thinking I can't handle myself."

"I don't think that, I know you can handle yourself," He soothed, "This place is just full of sneaky people and I want you safe."

"Ok then!" I chirped, "I'm actually kinda flattered that you care so much."

He smiled and opened the door to the living space outside his room. There I saw Ty Lee and Suki standing there, talking.

"Amara, these are your new bodyguards," Zuko said.

I smiled and ran over, giving Suki a hug.

"Thank the spirits that it's not someone I don't know," I mumbled.

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I dogged another punch. Moving back before Sokka could get another hit in and pushed his side with my foot. He yelped and scrambled to get up.

At this point he was very sweaty and tired. Though, I have to admit, he was an excellent fighter. His emotions about his sister and friend leaving were taking a toll on him. If it was any other day, I would probably need Kyoshi's fans to help me.

"Sokka, yield your not in the right mindset." I told him.

"No! I can still fight!" He said and charged at me again. I easily dogged it and took him down again.