text:
This is a rough script for the sixth film: "The Legend of Aang: The Firebending Master".
This is entirely made from transcripts from:
- The Western Air Temple
- The Firebending Masters
- The Boiling Rock Part 1
- The Boiling Rock Part 2
- The Southern Raiders
This also contains scenes depicted from:
- The Deserter
- The Ember Island Players
- Swordbending (Comic)
- Love is a Battlefield (Comic)
Note: The whole transcripts have been taken from the various episode transcripts as published on this wiki. Scenes have been altered to shorten time and new ones have been added to merge the episodes together, but the following is largely taken from the works of the editors of the transcript pages. Without their contribution to the wiki, this would not have been possible with this amount of detailing. So to all who edited the transcripts of this wiki. Thank you. AdamantiumBladez.
Post Battle Retreat
|The film begins with an aerial shot of the gang, now including Haru, The Duke, and Teo, searching for the Western Air Temple on foot. Cut to Toph leading with Haru and Sokka behind. Cut to Aang, Momo on his head, walking next to Appa. Cut to Teo and The Duke. Cut to Katara, Sokka next to her.
|This is humiliating.
|[Looking up at her.] You mean getting thoroughly spanked by the Fire Nation or having to walk all the way to the Western Air Temple?
|[Looking at him momentarily before answering.] Both.
|Cut to Aang.
|[He pets Appa, smiling slightly.] Sorry guys, but Appa gets tired carrying all these people.
|Cut to a view of the whole team, Toph leading the way.
|I wonder how the rest of the troops are.
|[Frontal view.] They're probably on their way to a prison. Seems like my dad just got out and now he's going back in.
|Cut to view of The Duke walking next to Sokka.
|The Duke
|I miss Pipsqueak.
|I miss not having blisters on my feet.
|Brief view of the team from behind before we see Toph's foot stamp down. Cut to Toph looking up, smiling.]
|Hey, we're here! I can feel it!
|Cut to a wide panning shot of the surrounding area. A cliff edge in front of the gang.
|Uhhh... I think your feet need their eyes checked.
|Cut to Aang with Sokka behind.]
|No, she's right. We are here!
|Sokka looks around before shrugging. Cut to the front of the gang as the camera pans down, revealing the temple, hidden under the cliff.
|Wow... it's amazing!
|At another part of the temple, Zuko descends down a rope. When he lands on the ground, he has a flashback to three years ago, just after his banishment.
|What a stunning view.
|Cut to Zuko with covering over his fresh scar. Iroh stands behind him.
|The only view I'm interested in seeing is the Avatar in chains.
|You know, the Avatar hasn't been seen for one hundred years. The chances of finding him here are very slim.
|[Determined.] First we'll check each of the air temples, then we'll scour the world, searching even the most remote locations until we find him.
|Prince Zuko, it's only been a week since your banishment. You should take some time to heal and rest.
|What else would I expect to hear from the laziest man in the Fire Nation? [Iroh sighs.] The only way to regain my honor is to find the Avatar, so I will.
|Iroh walks away as the flashback ends, fading to Zuko who looks disappointed in himself. Zuko notices Appa flying nearby and hides quickly. He subsequently runs off. Cut back to Team Avatar.
|It's so different from the Northern Air Temple. I wonder if there are any secret rooms.
|[Running off to explore.] Let's go check it out!
|Teo and The Duke follow Haru. Aang tries to, but is cut off by Katara.
|You guys go. I think we need to talk about some things.
|I'll race you, Duke.
|The Duke
|I told you, it's The Duke!
|The three head off. Cut to Katara and Aang.
|Why can't I go?
|We need to decide what we're gonna do now, and since you're the Avatar, maybe you should be a part of this.
|[Sitting down.] Fair enough. So, what's the new plan?
|Well, if you ask me, the new plan is the old plan! You just need to master all four elements and confront the Fire Lord before the comet comes.
|[Sarcastically.] Oh, yeah. That's great, no problem. I'll just do that.
|Aang, no one said it's going to be easy.
|Well, it's not even gonna be possible! Where am I supposed to get a firebending teacher? Oh well, guess we can't come up with anybody. Why don't we just take a nice tour around the temple? [He and Momo fly off.]
|What's up with him?
|There's gotta be someone who can teach him firebending.
|Cut to Zuko's campsite.
|Hello... Zuko here, but I guess you probably already know me, sort of. Uhhh... so, the thing is I have a lot of firebending experience, and I'm considered to be pretty good at it. Well, you've seen it, you know, when I was attacking you. Uhhh...yeah, I guess I should apologize for that. But anyway, I'm good now. I mean, I thought I was good before, but I realize I was bad, but anyway, I think it's time I joined your group and taught the Avatar firebending. [A badgerfrog croaks at him. Angrily.] Well, what's your answer? [The badgerfrog hops on his head before hopping away.] Yeah... that's what I'd say, too. How am I supposed to convince these people that I'm on their side? What would Uncle do? [Imitating Iroh.] Zuko, you have to look within yourself to save yourself from your other self. Only then will your true self, reveal itself. [Normal voice.] Even when I'm talking for him I can't figure out what he means. What would Azula do? [Imitating Azula.] Listen, Avatar, I can join your group, or I can do something unspeakably horrible to you and your friends! Your choice! [Normal voice.] I guess I'm just not that good at impersonations.
|A badgerfrog jumps in front of him as he sits and croaks. Meanwhile, Aang is flying on his glider. Sokka, Katara, and Toph follow him on Appa.
|Aang, can we talk about you learning firebending now?
|What? The wind is too loud in my ears! Check out this loop!
|Aang proceeds to do a loop.
|Aang, I think we should be making some plans about our future!
|Okay, we can do that while I show you the giant Pai Sho table! Oh, you're gonna love the all-day echo chamber!
|I think that'll have to wait.
|Toph points behind her. Appa moves out the way, revealing Zuko. The team grows stunned.
|[Waves.] Hello... Zuko here.
|The gang prepares to attack.
|Hey, I heard you guys flying around down there, so, I just thought I'd wait for you here. [Appa growls at him and licks him twice; Aang becomes surprised.] I know you must be surprised to see me here.
|Not really, since you've followed us all over the world.
|Right. Well, uhhh... anyway... what I wanted to tell you about is that I've changed, and I, uhhh, I'm good now, and well I think I should join your group, oh, and I can teach firebending to you. [The gang expresses shock.] See, I, uhhh...
|You want to what now?
|You can't possibly think that any of us would trust you, can you? I mean, how stupid do you think we are?!
|Yeah, all you've ever done is hunt us down and try to capture Aang!
|I've done some good things! I mean, I could have stolen your bison in Ba Sing Se, but I set him free. That's something! [Appa licks him again.]
|Appa does seem to like him.
|He probably just covered himself in honey or something so that Appa would lick him. I'm not buying it.
|I can understand why you wouldn't trust me, and I know I've made some mistakes in the past.
|Like when you attacked our village?
|Or when you stole my mother's necklace and used it to track us down and capture us?
|Look, I admit I've some awful things. I was wrong to try to capture you, and I'm sorry that I attacked the Water Tribe. And I never should have sent that Fire Nation assassin after you. [Toph and Sokka's eyes widen with shock.] I'm going to try and stop-
|[Pulls out his boomerang; angrily.] Wait, you sent Combustion Man after us?
|Well, that's not his name, but-
|[Sarcastically.] Ohhh, sorry. I didn't mean to insult your friend!
|[Angrily.] He's not my friend!
|That guy locked me and Katara in jail and tried to blow us all up!
|[To Aang.] Why aren't you saying anything? You once said you thought we could be friends. You know I have good in me.
|Aang turns to look at his friends, and Sokka shakes his head at Aang.
|There's no way we can trust you after everything you've done. We'll never let you join us.
|You need to get out of here. Now.
|I'm trying to explain that I'm not that person anymore!
|Either you leave, or we attack.
|If you won't accept me as a friend, then maybe you'll take me as a prisoner. [Zuko kneels down.]
|No, we won't! [Blasts water at him.] Get out of here, and don't come back! And if we ever see you again, well, we'd better not see you again!
|Zuko walks away. Cut back to Zuko's campsite.
|Uggh! I can't believe how stupid I am! I mean, what was I thinking? Telling them I sent an assassin after them? Why didn't I just say Azula did that? They would have believed that! Stupid! [A badgerfrog croaks at him.] Uggh!
|Back at the air temple.
|Why would he try to fool us like that?
|Obviously he wants to lead us into some kind of trap.
|This is just like when we were in prison together at Ba Sing Se. He starts talking about his mother and making it seem like he's an actual human being with feelings.
|He wants you to trust and feel sorry for him so you let your guard down, then he strikes.
|The thing is, it worked. I did feel sorry for him. I felt like he was really confused and hurt, but obviously, when the time came he made his choice, and we paid the price. We can't trust him.
|I kind of have a confession to make. Remember when you two were sick and I got captured by Zhao?
|And you made us suck on frozen frogs? How could I forget? I had a wart on the flap that hangs down from the back of my throat for a month!
|Sokka, I looked at it, and I told you, there was nothing there!
|I could feel it! It's my throatal flap!
|Anyway, when Zhao had me chained up, it was Zuko who came in and got me out. He risked his life to save me.
|No way! I'm sure he only did it so he could capture you himself!
|Yeah, face it Aang, you're nothing but a big prize to him.
|You're probably right.
|And what was all that crazy stuff about setting Appa free? What a liar!
|Actually, he wasn't lying.
|[Sarcastically.] Oh, hooray! In a lifetime of evil, at least he didn't add animal cruelty to the list.
|I'm just saying that, considering his messed-up family and how he was raised, he could have turned out a lot worse.
|[Sarcastically.] You're right, Toph! Let's go find him and give him a medal. The "not as much of a jerk as you could have been" award!
|All I know is that while he was talking to us, he was sincere. Maybe you're all just letting your hurt feelings keep you from thinking clearly.
|Easy for you to say! You weren't there when he had us attacked by pirates!
|Or when he burned down Kyoshi Island!
|Or when he tried to capture me at the Fire Temple!
|Why would you even try to defend him?
|[Angrily.] Because Katara, you're all ignoring one crucial fact: [Pokes Aang in the chest.] Aang needs a firebending teacher! We can't think of a single person in the world to do the job! Now one shows up on a silver platter, and you won't even think about it? [Stamps her feet on the ground to a point where the ground shakes slightly.]
|I'm not having Zuko as my teacher!
|You're darn right you're not, buddy.
|Well, I guess that settles that.
|Ergh! I'm beginning to wonder who's really the blind one around here! [Walks away.]
|Nightfall. Zuko's campsite. Zuko is asleep when he hears something.
|Who's there? Stay back! [Whips fire.]
|It's me! [Throws up an earth shield, but steps back into Zuko's fire blast.] Ow! You burned my feet!
|I'm sorry, it was a mistake! [Comes toward her, but she begins to crawl away.]
|Get away from me! [As Toph crawls away, she grabs the earth under her and throws it backward at Zuko.]
|Let me help you! [Dodges another rock.] I'm sorry! [Tries to grab her.]
|Get off me, get off me! [Brings up some earth which sends Zuko flying back.]
|I didn't know it was you! Uggh, come back! [Toph leaves.] Uggh! Why am I so bad at being good?
|The next morning, Western Air Temple. Katara is serving everyone breakfast.
|[Handing a bowl to The Duke.] Has anyone seen Toph?
|I haven't seen her since she stormed off yesterday.
|Maybe she's just exploring the air temple. There are some pretty fun spots to practice earthbending.
|I think we should go look for her.
|[Sitting.] Let her have fun with her rocks. I'm in no rush to have her yelling at us again.
|The Duke
|We can go check for her!
|[Has a bandage around his forehead.] Yeah! I want to ride that tunnel down to the Hall of Statues again. It will work a lot better now that I fixed my brakes.
|Haru, The Duke, and Teo exit.
|A large rumble occurs. Toph falls down the pile of rock that she created from a wall.
|[Approaching, with Sokka and Aang. Worried.] Toph! What happened?
|My feet got burned!
|Oh no, what happened?
|I just told you, my feet got burned!
|I meant, how.
|Well, I kind of went to see Zuko last night. [Everyone is shocked.]
|You what?
|I thought he could be helpful to us. [Katara begins to try and heal her feet.] And if I talked to him, maybe we could work something out.
|So he attacked you?
|Well, he did, and he didn't. It was sort of an accident.
|But he did firebend at you?
|[Sighs.] Yes.
|See? You trusted Zuko, and you got burned. Literally!
|It's gonna take a while for your feet to get better. [Stops healing.] I wish I could have worked on them sooner.
|Yeah, me too.
|Zuko's clearly too dangerous to be left alone. We're gonna have to go after him.
|I hate to go looking for a fight, but you're right. After what he did to Toph, I don't think we have a choice.
|He's crafty, but we'll find a way to capture him.
|Maybe just invite him back here. [Aang and Sokka go to pick her up.] He's already offered himself up as a prisoner once.
|Yeah, get him to come back and say he'll be our prisoner, then we'll jump him and really make him our prisoner. He'll never suspect it! [Aang and Sokka carry Toph away.]
|[Following. Sarcastically.] You are a master of surprise, Sokka...
|Cut to Toph's feet as they are dipped into a fountain.
|Ahhh, that's the stuff. Now I know how the rest of you guys feel. Not being able to see with your feet stinks. [Katara sits next to her putting a hand on her shoulder.]
|Meanwhile, Combustion Man eyes the gang from a higher elevation. He sets his sights on Aang. As he prepares to fire, however, Zuko jumps in and knocks him off-balance, causing his shot to be wild. Team Avatar make to run away before hearing Zuko.
|Stop! [Team Avatar turns their head up to the sound.] I don't want you hunting the Avatar anymore! [Cut to a quick close up of Aang looking up with shock as he is helping Sokka carry Toph. Cut back to Zuko as he stands in front of Combustion Man, arms spread out to block him.] The mission is off. I'm ordering you to stop.
|Combustion Man shoves him away and attacks again.
|If you keep attacking, I won't pay you! [Attempts to firebend at him, but Combustion Man grabs him.] All right, I'll pay you double to stop!
|Zuko kicks Combustion Man as he fires, causing him to miss again. He subsequently takes aim at Zuko. Zuko creates a firewall to stop the attack but is pushed off the ledge. Cut to a shot of Team Avatar looking over the edge of the fountain shocked. Cut to a shot from behind Combustion Man as he faces a small crater in the floor and the smoke that is dissipating. Cut to a shot of the edge of the ledge and strafe right, revealing climbing a vine hanging underneath it and Zuko survived by grabbing the plant's root. Cut to Combustion Man as he turns back. Cut to a close up of Aang as he stands up from behind the fountain pool and runs to the side. Cut to a shot of Aang doing a spinning back kick, airbending and kicking up the dust around him, then leaping straight up just as a blast from Combustion Man explodes beneath him. The camera turns up to Aang spinning in mid air, airbending a tornado and kicking it at Combustion Man. Combustion Man leaps over the tornado and fires another blast as he descends. Aang lands and quickly back flips away from the blast, landing next to Katara and Sokka. Cut to a shot of Combustion Man falling, then cut to a shot of his metal, clawed hand as it catches on a small ledge and breaks it, slowing his fall. He lands on a new ledge and rolls, firing a blast just as he stops. Cut to a shot of Katara and Aang shielding themselves as the blast hits the fountain water. The camera follows Katara as she runs forward and bends the water from the pool. Cut to a far shot from the side as Katara bends a huge wave up between them and Combustion Man. Cut to a shot in front of the camera as she descends from jumping, bringing her arms down and crossing them and giving a battle cry. The wave matches her arm movements and icicles in both directions. Cut to a shot of Combustion Man as the icicles speed toward him. He brings his metal arm over his face and lifts his metal leg to shield him from the attack. The icicles break against him. Combustion Man flings his arms down to shake off the ice shards and steps forward, an angry frown on his face. Cut to his perspective as he scans the area. The group is nowhere to be seen. Aang fires a tornado, which the assassin jumps over and fires again. Aang narrowly avoids the blast by jumping back. Combustion man falls and lands on a ledge as he fires and misses again. Katara bends water from the fountain and turns it into ice spikes, but Combustion Man appears unaffected. The assassin looks up and realizes they have disappeared but continues firing. Cut to shot of the team hiding behind a wall, out of sight.
|He's going to blast this whole place right off the cliff side!
|Katara looks out from behind the wall only to see another incoming blast.
|I can't step out to waterbend at him without being blown up and I can't get a good enough angle on him from down here.
|[Pausing for a moment to think before having an idea.] I know how to get an angle on him! [Takes out his boomerang. After another blast, he sneaks his head out, but has to hide from another shot. He projects Combustion Man's angle with his boomerang.] All right buddy, don't fail me now! [Throws his boomerang.]
|The boomerang hits the assassin in the head where his third eye tattoo is, causing him to hit the ground, before it returns back.
|Yeah, boomerang! [Jumps up and grabs it, but Combustion Man gets up, albeit clearly shaken.] Awww, boomerang...
|As the team runs back to their hiding spot, Combustion Man gears up again, but is dizzy and cannot aim properly. His next shot fails to escape, causing an explosion around him resulting in the building he stands on getting destroyed. Cut to his metal arm as it flies away from the explosion, followed by the falling building. The gang looks on, shocked. Haru, Teo, and The Duke all appear from behind a pillar also shocked.
|Zuko climbs a plant root, having survived the ordeal. Later, Zuko again approaches the gang.
|I can't believe I'm saying this, but... thanks, Zuko.
|Hey, what about me? I did the boomerang thing.
|Listen, I know I didn't explain myself very well yesterday, I've been through a lot in the last few years and it's been hard. But I'm realizing that I had to go through all those things to learn the truth. I thought I had lost my honor, and that somehow, my father could return it to me. But I know now that no one can give you your honor. It's something you earn for yourself, by choosing to do what's right. All I want to do now is play my part in ending this war, and I know my destiny is to help you restore balance to the world. [To Toph.] I'm sorry for what I did to you. [Bows to her.] It was an accident. Fire can be dangerous and wild, so as a firebender, I need to be more careful and control my bending, so I don't hurt people unintentionally.
|[Looks at Zuko shocked, hearing these words, and thinks for a moment.] I think you are supposed to be my firebending teacher. When I first tried to learn firebending, I burned Katara, and after that, I never wanted to firebend again. But now I know you understand how easy it is to hurt the people you love. I'd like you to teach me. [Bows before Zuko.]
|[Bows.] Thank you. I'm so happy you've accepted me into your group.
|Not so fast. I still have to ask my friends if it's okay with them. [To Toph.] Toph, you're the one that Zuko burned. What do you think?
|Go ahead and let him join. [Pounds her fist into her palm jokingly.] It'll give me plenty of time to get back at him for burning my feet.
|[Turning to Sokka.] Sokka?
|[Shrugging.] Hey, all I want is to defeat the Fire Lord. If you think this is the way to do it, then, I'm all for it.
|[Approaching Katara.] Katara?
|[Glares at Zuko for a moment and Zuko starts to sweat; reluctantly.] I'll go along with whatever you think is right. [Aang smiles.]
|[Excitedly approaching the group.] I won't let you down! I promise!
|Aang, Katara, and Sokka exit, the latter carrying Toph. Later, Sokka shows Zuko to his room.
|So, here you go, home sweet home, I guess, you know, for now. Unpack? Lunch, soon? Uhhh... welcome aboard? [Zuko glances back and smiles at him.] Yeah. [Walks out of the room and meets Aang in the hallway; to Aang.] Okay, this is really, really weird.
|The two exit. Cut to Zuko as he pulls out a painting of Iroh. He subsequently has another flashback to three years ago.
|If I have to, I will spend every day of the rest of my life hunting the Avatar. I know it's my destiny to capture him.
|[Placing a hand on his shoulder.] You know Prince Zuko, destiny is a funny thing. You never know how things are going to work out. But if you keep an open mind, and an open heart, I promise you will find your own destiny someday.
|Fade to Zuko in the present, smiling at the memory. Zuko suddenly notices a clearly disgruntled Katara at the door.
|You might have everyone else here buying your... transformation, but you and I both know you've struggled with doing the right thing in the past. [Approaches him; threateningly.] So let me tell you something, right now. You make one step backward, one slip-up, [Close-up of Katara's angry face.] give me one reason to think you might hurt Aang, and you won't have to worry about your destiny anymore. Because I'll make sure your destiny ends... right then and there. Permanently.
|She walks away and slams the door shut. Zuko slumps his shoulders.
Earning Trust
|The episode opens with a shot of the sky from the Western Air Temple, and the camera pans below to Zuko and Aang standing on the balcony of an upside down pagoda in the temple.
|I know you're nervous, but remember, firebending in it of itself is not something to fear.
|[Cut to Aang, as he sighs heavily.] Okay. Not something to fear.
|[Cut to Zuko from behind Aang.] But if you don't respect it, [He raises his voice, as the camera zooms to a close-up of his face.] it'll chew you up and spit you out like an angry komodo rhino!
|Cut to Aang's face, as he yelps in fear, before cutting back to Zuko.
|Now show me what you've got. Any amount of fire you can make.
|Cut to Aang, as he inhales nervously and tries to firebend. Cut to a close-up of his palm, as a small cloud of smoke appears, and is dissipated. Camera pans left to Aang.
|Maybe I need a little more instruction. Perhaps a demonstration?
|[Cut to an aerial shot of the both.] Good idea. You might wanna take a couple steps back.
|Aang walks back, and shot cuts to a close-up of Zuko's face, as he inhales deeply. Screen zooms back to show Zuko grunting, and cuts to his fist, which lets out a very small flame. Aang applauds at this display.
|[Takes a step back.] What was that? That was the worst firebending I've ever seen!
|[Cut to Aang.] I thought it was... nice. [Smiles slightly and shrugs.]
|Zuko grunts again and tries firebending again, with all three attempts resulting in very small flames similar to the first. He grunts and looks at his palms.
|[Frustrated.] Why is this happening?
|[Rubbing his head, confused.] Maybe it's the altitude.
|[Turning back.] Yeah, could be.
|Scene changes to some pagodas and pans below to Aang sitting on a broken pillar and Zuko standing. Zuko attempts firebending, which results in a similar small flame again. He grunts and delivers another similar blast, as Aang yawns and lies down on the pillar.
|Just breathe, and... [He delivers another blast with no improvement.]
|[Gets up.] That one kind of felt hot.
|[Very angry.] Don't patronize me! You know what it's supposed to look like!
|Sorry, Sifu Hotman.
|[Raises his arms to his head, and throws them down back, and shouts in frustration, as Aang cringes.] And stop calling me that!
|Shot cuts to Sokka walking toward the teacher and his pupil, eating an apple. Sokka sits down near the two, as they turn their heads toward him.
|Hey, jerks! Mind if I watch you two jerks do your jerkbending?
|[Frustrated.] Get out of here! [He lashes his arm and points to a side.]
|Okay, take it easy. [He drops his half-eaten apple.] I was just kiddin' around. [He gets up and turns around, laughing as he adjusts his shirt.] Jerkbending, still got it. [Zuko drops his head, dejected, and moans.]
|Scene changes to an aerial shot of Appa resting near a fountain at night, and zooms to show him eating a small bale of hay. Screen pans to the right to show Zuko leaning on a column with his arms crossed, looking below and thinking deeply. He turns his head to the campfire where everyone is settled for dinner, and walks toward them.
|Listen everybody, I've got some pretty bad news. I've lost my stuff. [He looks below dejectedly.]
|[Raises both hands to her head.] Don't look at me, [She folds her arms.] I didn't touch your stuff.
|I'm talking about my firebending. It's gone. [He looks below again.]
|Cut to Sokka, Haru, The Duke, and Teo looking at him, as the former Freedom Fighter sits up. Camera pans left, as Katara laughs, and everyone's attention is focused on her. Zuko looks at the waterbender with an annoyed expression.
|I'm sorry. I'm just laughing at the irony. You know, how it would've been nice for us if you lost your firebending a long time ago.
|[Camera zooms back to show everyone sitting around the campfire and Zuko standing.] Well, it's not lost. It's just... weaker for some reason.
|[Holding up her bowl and glaring at Zuko.] Maybe you're not as good as you think you are.
|[Screen pans left to Toph.] Ouch. [She smiles sarcastically.]
|No, I trained with the best around. Master Jeong Jeong. Both me and Azula trained under him from an early age.
|Switching to a memory of younger Azula and Zuko with Jeong Jeong in front of the river. Both stand, bandy legged, on a flat stone in the river. Jeong Jeong stands a foot or two away on the bank in front of his cottage.
|Jeong Jeong
|Widen your stance. Wider! Bend your knees. Now, concentrate. [Azula expresses her concentration.] Good, good!
|Young Zuko
|[Follows Azula and copies her.] Wait! What do I do now?
|Jeong Jeong
|[Turns around.] Silence! Talking is not concentrating! Look at your sister, is she talking? Younger then you and even she knows to concentrate on what she's doing!
|Young Zuko
|But what am we concentrating on?
|Jeong Jeong
|Feel the heat of the sun. It is the greatest source of fire. Yet, it is in complete balance with nature!
|Young Zuko
|So when do I get to make some fire?
|Young Azula
|As if you ever could Zuzu.
|Young Zuko
|Don't call me- [Interrupted by Jeong Jeong.]
|Jeong Jeong
|Zuko and Azula both breathe. Cut to a long shot of the figures in the distance climbing the slope of a mountain. Cut to a close-up shot of Zuko, Azula and Jeong Jeong walking up the path to the mountain's summit.
|Young Azula
|Are we coming up here so I don't burn anything with my fire blasts?
|Jeong Jeong
|No fire yet.
|Young Azula
|Jeong Jeong
|Power in firebending comes from the breath. That is why you must master proper breath control.
|Young Zuko
|You brought us up here to breathe?
|Young Azula
|As if you need to, Airhead- [Interrupted by Jeong Jeong.]
|Jeong Jeong
|Assume your stance.
|Azula assumes the proper stance. Zuko follows after
|Jeong Jeong
|[Faces the opposite direction of Zuko and Azula.] Wider.
|Young Azula
|You're not even look— [Interrupted by Jeong Jeong.]
|Jeong Jeong
|Wider! Now, inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth - without talking. Good. Keep going.
|[Narrating] We trained under him for days on end. Azula exceeded me in all exercises, with me just struggling behind. When I finally finished the basics, she was already considered a protege, while I was barely qualifying as a firebender. [Back to the present.] Uncle continued my training after my exile. I was so determined, so angry, so . . focused of coming home. [With an idea.] I bet it's because I changed sides.
|[Still holding her bowl.] That's ridiculous. [She drinks from the bowl.]
|I don't know. Maybe it isn't. Maybe your firebending comes from rage and you just don't have enough anger to fuel it the way you used to.
|[Leans toward Zuko and points a finger above.] Sooo, all we need to do is make Zuko angry. Easy enough.
|Sokka pokes Zuko with his sword's hilt in the head and waist several times, laughing.
|Okay, cut it out! [Sokka stops poking, as his sword slips from his hands and is thrown above, before falling on his head. Zuko rubs his nose.] Look, even if you're right, I don't want to rely on hate and anger anymore. There has to be another way.
|[Cut to Toph, as Sokka sits near her, and rubs his head.] You're gonna need to learn to draw your firebending from a different source. I recommend the original source. [Eats the food from her bowl.]
|How's he supposed to do that? By jumping into a volcano?
|No. Zuko needs to go back to whatever the original source of firebending is.
|So, is it jumping into a volcano?
|I don't know. [Places her bowl down as the shot cuts to a close-up of her face.] For earthbending, the original benders were badgermoles.
|Scene changes to a cave in a flashback as a younger Toph wearing a gown is kneeling down, and crying, as screen zooms out.
|[Voice-over.] One day, when I was little, I ran away and hid in a cave.
|Cut to the younger Toph's face, as she is startled by a rumbling noise, and part of the cave's wall breaks. Shot cuts to behind Toph to show one of a badgermole's legs.
|That's where I met them.
|Toph cringes in fear, and the badgermole comes near Toph and sniffs her. Toph sniffs back and the badgermole licks her cheek, causing her to giggle. She touches the badgermole's snout with both hands before licking it, and giggles again.
|They were blind, just like me. [The badgermole walks away as Toph crawls after it.] So we understood each other. I was able to learn earthbending, [Cut to an overhead shot of the badgermole which moves its paws in a sweeping motion.] not just as a martial art, but as an extension of my senses. [Screen fades to an overhead shot of Toph mimicking the creature's actions.] For them, the original earthbenders, [The badgermole comes across a pile of rocks and earthbends them to the side.] it wasn't just about fighting. It was their way of interacting with the world. [She stands up, earthbends a stone, and smiles.]
|Screen fades from the younger Toph's face back to the present Toph's smiling face.
|That's amazing, Toph!
|[Cut to an aerial shot of the group.] I learned from the monks, but the original airbenders were the sky bison. [Camera pans above to show a mural of three sky bison. Aang leans back to look at Appa.] Maybe you can give me a lesson sometime, buddy.
|Appa growls from the shed.
|Well, this doesn't help me. The original firebenders were the dragons, and they're extinct.
|[Shot cuts to behind Zuko as he looks at the group.] What do you mean? Roku had a dragon, and there were plenty of dragons when I was a kid.
|[Cut to Zuko's face, as he yells.] Well, they aren't around anymore, okay?
|Okay, okay. [Moves his arms in an appeasing manner.] I'm sorry.
|But maybe there's another way. [He walks toward a fountain.] The first people to learn from the dragons were the ancient Sun Warriors.
|[Walks toward Zuko.] Sun Warriors? Well, I know they weren't around when I was a kid.
|[Turning his head toward Aang.] No, they died off thousands of years ago. But their civilization wasn't too far from where we are now. [Cut to a shot of the two from the side, as Zuko turns his head toward the Avatar.] Maybe we can learn something by poking around their ruins.
|It's like the monks used to tell me. Sometimes, the shadows of the past can be felt by the present.
|So, what? [Aang and Zuko look back at him and the shot cuts to Sokka seated.] Maybe you'll pick up some super old Sun Warrior energy just by standing [Moves his hand in a strange motion.] where they stood a thousand years ago?
|[Cut to an aerial shot.] More or less. Either I find a new way to firebend, [Cut to a shot of the two from the side. Zuko turns his head toward Aang.] or the Avatar has to find a new teacher. [Aang looks concerned and worried at Zuko's statement.]
|Scene changes to Aang and Zuko flying on Appa over an ocean. Cut to a bored Zuko.
|We've been riding for hours. I don't know why, but I thought this thing would be a lot faster.
|Cut to Appa from below, as he growls.
|[Turning his head toward Zuko.] Appa's right, Zuko. In our group, typically we start our missions with a more up-beat attitude.
|[Whispering.] I can't believe this. [He lies down.]
|[Cut to Appa flying from behind.] Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it.
|Scene changes to an aerial shot of the ocean, as the screen pans above to an aerial shot of an island. Scene changes to an aerial shot of Appa descending to land on some ruins. The ruins make Aang and Zuko full of awe. Cut to Appa landing from the side. Shot cuts to show some mountains and pans below to an aerial shot of Aang and Zuko walking through the ruins.
|Even though these buildings are ancient, there's something eerily familiar about them. [Cut to Aang and Zuko walking.] I can tell the Fire Sages' temples are somehow descended from these.
|[Cut to some structures as screen pans right to show more of them.] Okay. We've learned something about architecture. [Cut back to the two walking.] Hopefully, we'll learn something about firebending too. The past can be a great teacher.
|Cut to a tripwire, which is pulled when Aang walks by. He trips and yelps, as an overhead shot shows a small portion of the path in front of him going down and some spikes coming up from holes. Aang nearly falls on the spikes but blows a blast of air from his mouth which thrusts him up, and somersaults on to the other side, as he managed to regain balance.
|[Scared.] Zuko, I think the past is trying to kill me.
|[Kneeling down to inspect the spikes.] I can't believe it. [He picks the tripwire up and examines it.] This booby trap must be centuries old and it still works.
|There's probably a lot more. Maybe this means we shouldn't be here.
|Zuko takes two steps back and runs toward the wall adjoining the path. He runs on the wall before jumping on the other side of the spikes.
|[Dusting some dirt on his shirt.] Where's that up-beat attitude you were talking about. [He smiles, as Aang turns back. Cut to Zuko's point of view of the path as screen pans above to a building.] Besides, people don't make traps unless they've got something worth protecting.
|Cut to Zuko and Aang coming onto the building from stairs.
|Look, this seems promising. [Cut to Zuko and Aang from the behind, as they see a carving of a person being surrounded by two dragons who are breathing fire at him.] Though I'm not sure what this tells us about the original source of firebending.
|[Cut to Zuko and Aang looking at the carving from the side.] They look pretty angry to me.
|[Cut to a part of the carving from below as screen pans right to show more of it.] I thought the dragons were friends with the Sun Warriors.
|Well, they had a funny way of showing it.
|Cut back to the both from the side, as Zuko looks down for a moment and starts walking, with Aang looking.
|Zuko, [Zuko stops walking.] something happened to the dragons in the last hundred years. [Zuko closes his eyes.] Something you're not telling me.
|[He opens his eyes.] My great-grandfather Sozin happened.
|Zuko walks away with Aang following him. Scene changes to the two walking on a bridge.
|He started the tradition of hunting dragons for glory. There were the ultimate firebenders. [Cut to them walking from below the bridge, with the screen panning right as they walk.] And if you could conquer one, your firebending talents would become legendary and you'd earn the honorary title, Dragon. [They approach a path which has one dragon's statue on both sides, and stop walking.] The last great dragon was conquered long before I was born, [Cut to a close-up of one of the dragon's statue's eyes as Zuko places one of his palms on it.] by my uncle.
|[Cut to the both from a side.] But I thought your uncle was... I don't know, good?
|He had a complicated past. [Cut to Zuko's face.] Family tradition, I guess. Let's just move on.
|Zuko starts walking as shot cuts to an overhead shot of him walking away, with Aang running to catch up to him. Scene changes to a vertical column with a sunstone in the center, as Zuko and Aang walk past it. Screen pans above to show a wall with two gates, with the both walking toward them. As the both come closer, Zuko stops walking, and Aang runs to the gates, drops his staff, and unsuccessfully tries opening the gates.
|It's locked up!
|Zuko rubs his head, and looks behind, before quickly going aside to show the sunstone from the column in front of the gates beaming light.
|Wait. [Cut to an overhead shot of Zuko, as he realizes something and takes a step behind, and looks at the position he stood at a moment before. Screen zooms in to show the light from the sunstone beaming on a circular carving on the ground.] It's a celestial calendar. [Cut to an aerial shot of Zuko and Aang standing in front of the column as screen pans to right to show the gates.] Just like the Fire Sages have in their temples. [Cut to a similar sunstone above the gates.] I bet that sunstone opens the door, but only when sunlight hits at just the right angle. [Screen pans below to show Aang in front of the gates.] On the solstice.
|[Exasperated.] Monkeyfeathers! The solstice again? We can't wait here that long.
|[Cut to Zuko.] No, we can't. [He unsheathes one of his swords.] But we might be able to speed time up. [Cut to the circle carved on the ground on which light from the sunstone is being beamed. He places his sword on it with an angle, causing it to reflect the light. Cut to Zuko reflecting the light from the column.] Let's see if we can outsmart the sunstone.
|Cut to the side of the gate as the light being reflected by Zuko's sword moves to the other sunstone on top of the gates. Screen pans below to show Aang looking at it.
|Nothing's happening.
|[Cut to Zuko, who is kneeling down and reflecting the light.] Come on.
|Cut to a close-up of the sunstone as the ground starts shaking. Cut to inside the room as the gates are opened and the shaking stops.
|[He picks his staff, and Zuko, walking up to the gates, unsheathes his sword.] You know, Zuko, I don't care what everyone else says about you. [Aang nudges Zuko with his elbow.] You're pretty smart.
|Zuko smiles at Aang's compliment, before realizing what Aang actually said. Aang walks inside the dark room and looks around it. He narrows his eyes, as the shot cuts to show a statue of a man with an angry expression. Cut back to Aang, who gasps.
|Relax. They're just statues.
|Cut to a shot of two statues from behind Aang and Zuko. Cut to an aerial shot of the room to show many statues lined up in a circle as they both walk into it. Aang walks up to a statue and reads something on it.
|It says this is something called the Dancing Dragon.
|Aang places his staff to lean on the statue. Cut to a shot of the statue from behind Aang to show him taking the same posture the statue is in. Cut to his leg, which presses a button on the ground. Aang comes out of the posture and examines the button. He looks around at all the statues, runs toward Zuko, catches him by the hand, and pulls him.
|Zuko, get over here! I want you to dance with me!
|[He pulls his hand back.] What?
|Just do it.
|Aang pulls him to a side, as shot cuts to the both standing in front of two statues that are to the sides of the path that leads into the circle, as Zuko groans.
|Let's follow the steps of the statues. [Aang and Zuko take the posture of the statue in front of them and move to their right and left, respectively, taking the postures of the statues in front of them, which pressed similar buttons lying on the ground in front of all the statues. Cut to an aerial shot of the room.] Don't you see? These aren't dance moves. These statues are giving us a lesson. [Cut to Zuko moving through each statue.] I think this is some kind of Sun Warrior firebending form.
|This better teach us some really good firebending.
|Cut to Aang, as he does the same moves as Zuko. Cut to two statues with their waists bent toward each other, and their arms in the direction of each other. Zuko and Aang perform the same move. Cut to a part of the ground detracting and a vertical column emerging from it, as the both look behind at it. Cut to a close-up of the yellow, egg-shaped sunstone on the column. Cut to an aerial shot of Zuko and Aang standing in front of the column as Aang raises his arms in triumph.
|Hurray! [Putting his hands down, and rubbing his head.] Wait, what exactly is that.
|[He runs toward the sunstone.] It's some kind of mystical gemstone.
|[Cut to the gemstone as Zuko runs toward it. Aang raises his arms.] Well, don't touch it! [Zuko stops and Aang catches up to him.]
|Why not?
|Remember what happened out there with those spikes? [Turns to look at the side and raises his arms again.] I'm just very suspicious of giant glowing gems sitting on pedestals.
|Zuko ignores the Avatar and picks the sunstone, as Aang's eyes twitch.
|It feels almost alive.
|He tries to put the sunstone back but yells in surprise as a geyser of viscous slime erupts out from the pedestal and pushes Zuko toward the grates in the ceiling, sticking him there.
|[Cut to a worried Aang's face, as he turns to look at the gates of the room, which close.] Oh no, it's another trap!
|Cut to an overhead shot of the column as more viscous slime comes from it, causing Aang to walk back. Cut to Zuko who is stuck to the grates and unsuccessfully struggles to break free.
|Ugh, I can't pull free. It's like some kind of glue.
|Cut to Aang, as he jumps across the slime and grabs his staff on the other side of the room. He climbs on a statue's head, jumps onto another of the statues' head and airbends a gust of wind toward Zuko, due to which Zuko is pushed from his back to his front. Cut to an aerial shot to show that the slime is rising and the screen zooms to show Aang is still on the statue's head. His staff gets stuck in the slime and he is not successful in pulling it out. He jumps up toward the grates, as the slime engulfs the room.
|[Trying to pull his hands from the grates.] I can't move! Zuko, do something!
|Me? I can't move either!
|Cut to a shot of the entire room being filled by the slime. Cut to the other side of the grates as they groan due to the slime pushing them against the grates. The slime stops.
|It stopped.
|At least we have air. Maybe if we stay calm, we can figure a way out of this.
|Cut to an aerial shot of the two being stuck to the grates, as screen zooms out slowly. Screen fades to the building at night, and cuts to the two still stuck to the grates.
|You had to pick up the glowing egg, didn't you.
|[Cut to their heads sticking out from the grates.] At least I made something happen. If it were up to you, we'd never have made it past the courtyard.
|[He opens his mouth very widely and yells.] Help!
|Who are you yelling to? Nobody's lived here for centuries.
|Well, what do you think we should do?
|Think about our place in the universe?
|Cut to the grates from the side, as Aang sighs, and a foot wearing a sandal steps near it.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Cut to Zuko and Aang's point of view, as the Sun Warrior chief comes into sight. Cut to his face.] Who is down there?
|Cut to both boys bearing shocked expressions. Cut to a shot of the building, before cutting to Zuko and Aang as the slime is removed by aardvark sloths on either side of them. Shot cuts to an aerial shot to show the two surrounded by men and women who are in circles.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Walking toward the two.] For trying to take our sunstone, you must be severely punished!
|[Cut to Aang and Zuko from the side.] We didn't come here to take your sunstone. We came here to find the ancient origin of all firebending.
|Cut to an aerial shot of the people, as Ham Ghao steps forward.
|Ham Ghao
|Yeah, right. They are obviously thieves, [Cut to the chief and Ham Ghao from the side to show that he is holding the sunstone.] here to steal Sun Warrior treasures.
|Please, I don't normally play this card, but... [Places his palm on his chest.] I'm the Avatar. [Cut to Ham Ghao looking toward the chief from the side, puzzled. Cut to Aang, who stands up and gives a weak smile.] Just hear us out.
|[Standing up.] My name is Zuko, Crown Prince of the Fire Nation. [Looks down at the ground.] Or at least, I used to be. [Cut to Zuko's point of view to the Sun Warriors as screen pans right to show more of them.] I know my people have distorted the ways of firebending, to be fueled by anger and rage. But now I want to learn the true way, [Cut back to Aang and Zuko.] the original way. When we came here, I never imagined [Cut to an aerial shot that shows the Sun Warriors surrounding the two.] the Sun Warrior's civilization was secretly alive. I am truly humbled to be in your presence. [Cut back to the two, as they bow their heads.] Please, teach us.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Cut to the chief.] If you wish to learn the ways of the Sun, you must learn them from the masters, Ran and Shaw.
|[Cut to Aang and Zuko.] Ran and Shaw? There are two of them?
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Walks toward them and looks at Aang.] When you present yourself to them, they will examine you. [Turns to look at Zuko.] They'll read your hearts, your souls, and your ancestry. [Takes a step toward Zuko and towers over Zuko, who looks worried.] If they deem you worthy, they'll teach you. [Cut to a close-up of the chief.] If they don't, you'll be destroyed on the spot.
|The chief walks back, and Aang and Zuko look at each other. Scene changes to a building on the next day. Screen zooms to the top of the building.
|Sun Warrior chief
|If you're going to see the masters, [Cut to an aerial shot of the Sun Warriors sitting in many arcs inside the room in front of the Eternal Flame. Aang, Zuko, and the Sun Warrior chief are standing.] you must bring them a piece of the Eternal Flame. [Cut to the chief standing in front of the fire from behind him.] This fire is the very first one. [Raises his hands to his head and turns back at Zuko and Aang.] It was given to man by the dragons. [Cut to the chief talking to Zuko and Aang from the side as the other Sun Warriors look.] We have kept it going for thousands of years.
|[Surprised.] I don't believe it.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Cut to the Sun Warriors sitting and the chief explaining their job to the two, as screen pans to the right.] You will each take a piece of it to the masters, to show your commitment to the sacred art of firebending.
|[Cut to an unsure Aang as he places his palm on his neck.] Umm, Mister Sun Chief Sir, yeah, I'm not a firebender yet. [Pointing to Zuko.] Couldn't my friend here carry my fire for me?
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Unyielding.] No. [He turns back to face the fire. Cut to Aang, who looks very uneasy, before cutting to the chief, who takes a part of the Eternal Flame on his hand and turns back toward the two.] This ritual illustrates [He turns around in a circle and splits the fire on his palm into two parts.] the essence of Sun Warrior philosophy. [Cut to Aang, as he stares at the flame.] You must maintain a constant heat. The flame will go out if you make it too small. [Aang cringes, as the screen pans to Zuko, who is standing beside Aang.] Make it too big, and you might lose control.
|Zuko stares at the flame and brings his arms forward to take the flame. He looks at Aang, as shot cuts to the chief offering Aang the flame from the side.
|I'm sorry, I'm just a little nervous. [He takes the flame in his hand and his expression changes to a relieved one.] It's like a little heartbeat.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Cut to the chief.] Fire is life, [Cut to Aang. Screen zooms in to his face as he smiles.] not just destruction. You will take your flames up there. [Cut to Zuko and Aang standing in front of the chief as he points to a mountain from the side. Screen zooms in to the mountain.] The cave of the masters is beneath that rock.
|Screen changes to Aang and Zuko walking through a steep forest, before changing to the steep surface. Cut to Zuko, who has reached the top of the steepness, turning back to look at Aang who is lagging behind.
|Hurry up.
|I can't. [Cut to Aang approaching a rock.] If I walk too fast, my flame will go out. [Climbs up the rock and looks at his flame.]
|Your flame's [Aang looks at Zuko.] gonna go out [Cut to Zuko from below.] because it's too small. You're too timid, give it more juice.
|[He climbs another rock.] But what if I can't control it.
|[Cut to Zuko.] You can do it. I know you can. [Cut to an unsure Aang.] You're a talented kid.
|Aang smiles at the compliment and climbs up another rock, reaching the top. Zuko starts walking and Aang follows him. Screen pans above to the top of the mountain. Scene changes to Zuko and Aang as the reach the top of the mountain, and see that warriors are already there, with the Sun Warrior chief, Ham Ghao, and another Sun Warrior standing. Screen zooms out to show two vertical rocks with a bridge in the center.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[He and the other two Sun Warriors walk up to the two.] Facing the judgment of the firebending masters will be very dangerous for you. Your ancestors [Cut to Zuko.] are directly responsible for the dragons' disappearance. [Zuko looks toward the side.] The masters might not be so happy to see you.
|Ham Ghao
|[He places his hand on his hip.] I know I wouldn't be.
|But once they find out I'm the Avatar.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Cut to the chief.] Have you forgotten that you vanished, allowing the Fire Nation to wreak havoc on the world? [Cut to a guilty Aang.] The decline of the dragons is your burden, too. [Aang looks toward the side.]
|Cut to an overhead shot of the chief rooting his staff on the ground. The other two Sun Warriors get into a kneeling position and the chief walks toward Zuko and Aang, takes a small portion of their flames and gives the flames to both of the Sun Warriors, who go to each of the sides. The chief turns back and walks. Cut to some Sun Warriors standing and sitting, alternately, as the two Warriors standing create a circle made of fire. Cut to Aang and Zuko watching the chief walk.
|[Turning to Zuko.] We could turn back now. We've already learned more about fire than we'd hoped. [Aang shows Zuko his flame and gives a weak smile.]
|No, we're seeing this through to the end. We're gonna meet these masters and find out [Cut to an overhead shot of Aang.] what's so great about them.
|[Looking toward the rocks.] What if they judge us, and attack us?
|[Cut to Zuko.] Well, we're the Fire Prince and the Avatar. [Unsheathes his swords slightly.] I think we could take these guys in a fight, whoever they are. [He smiles.]
|Cut to Aang, who nods uneasily. Cut to the entire courtyard to show that all alternate Sun Warriors have made their fire circles. Zuko turns toward the Sun Warrior chief.
|Bring 'em out!
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Cut to the chief to show him stretching his both hands out on both sides.] Chanters!
|Cut to an aerial shot of the courtyard as the chanters play the music. Cut to the Sun Warriors, who are sitting down, beating their drums in a synchronized rhythm. Cut to the other Sun Warriors holding the fire circle in their crouched positions. Cut to the Warriors, as Zuko and Aang walk toward the stairs. Cut to the other side of the circle to show the Warriors alternatively rising and bowing. Cut to an overhead shot of the two nearing the steps. Cut to a shot of the stairs as screen slowly pans below. Cut to the chief and the other two Warriors, as they step aside to let Zuko and Aang pass.
Zuko and Aang look at each other and take a deep breath before climbing. Cut to the warriors, who are still beating the drums and holding the fire circle. Cut to Zuko and Aang climbing the steps. Aang looks back, but continues forward. Shot cuts to them climbing from the side, before cutting to the chief and the two warriors beside him looking at them, with the screen zooming out. Cut to Zuko and Aang, who reach the top as the setting sun shines at them. The music stops playing as soon as they reach the top. Both of them look at the caves on each side of the bridge.
|Sun Warrior
|[Cut to a Sun Warrior using an sound-amplifying device.] Those who wish to meet the masters, Ran and Shaw, will now present their fire.
|Aang and Zuko turn toward the caves and bow down with their hands stretched toward the caves. Screen zooms out to show them in this posture.
|Sun Warrior chief
|Sound the call!
|A warrior takes a deep breath and blows a horn. The sound from the horn sends a flock of birds scattering. The cave Aang is facing rumbles, causing him to tremble. Aang accidentally places his hand down, extinguishing his flame.
|What's happening? [He looks to look at Zuko, who turns his head toward Aang. Aang cringes and quickly returns back to his position, and realizes that his flame is extinguished and gasps. He turns toward Zuko again, and whispers.] Zuko, my fire went out.
|[Whispering.] What do you want me to do?
|Give me some of yours. [He reaches for Zuko's flame and Zuko pushes him behind.]
|[Whispering.] No, just make your own.
|[Whispering as well.] I can't. [He reaches for Zuko's flame again.]
|[Cut to an aerial shot of the bridge.] Get some from those warriors. [Cut to the chief and the two Warriors beside him.] Hurry! [Cuts to shot of the Sun Warriors below; off-screen.] Stop cheating on me!
|The chief and Ham Ghao look at each other.
|[Off-screen.] Quit being stingy!
|Shot cuts to Aang trying to reach for Zuko's flame; he is unable to do so as Zuko raises his hand high up in the air. Aang continues his attempt to get Zuko's flame but Zuko stretches his arms away. Aang pulls Zuko's arm down, extinguishing the flame. They both look at each other. Cut to the two from inside the caves as the ground rumbles. Cut to the two with a worried expression. They turn to look at the other save as screen zooms in to the cave.
|Uh, oh.
|Two eyes glow inside a cave and a red dragon comes out, roaring, circling around the bridge. Cut to the boys, who take a step back. Cut to Zuko, who looks at the dragon. Cut to a blue dragon coming out of the other cave. It joins the other dragon as they circle the bridge.
|[Cut to Zuko and Aang standing.] These are the masters.
|[In a low voice.] Still think we can take 'em?
|Sshh. I never said that.
|Cut to the dragons circling the bridge from below. Screen pans down to the warriors as they bow down. Cut to Ham Ghao and the chief.
|Ham Ghao
|Oh, here it comes. [Looks up at the bridge.] Any moment now. Dinner for the masters.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Turns toward Ham Ghao.] Quiet, Ham Ghao!
|Ham Ghao
|What? [Turns his head away.] Everyone's thinking it.
|Cut to the bridge where the dragons are still flying around the bridge. Cut to Aang, who looks at them flying.
|[Whispers.] Zuko, I think we're supposed to do the Dragon Dance with them.
|[Turning his head toward Zuko.] What? What about this situation makes you think they want us to dance?
|Well, I think they want us to do something. Let's just try it.
|[Unwillingly.] Fine.
|Aang and Zuko get into the first posture of the Dancing Dragon and change their postures to the next. Cut to Aang spreading his arms out as the blue dragon flies behind him following the shape of his arms. Aang turns his arms to his side as the dragon turns as well. Screen zooms out to show the dragons performing the same movements as each other. Cut to Zuko, who pushes his hand up as the red dragon behind him goes up as well. Zuko dips and the dragon dives down accordingly. Cut to the dragons flying above the bridge as screen pans below to show the two performing the Dancing Dragon. Cut to them performing the final move. They look to either side as shot cuts to show that the dragons have stopped moving and are hovering on either side of the bridge.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Still bowing.] Judgment time.
|Cut to the blue dragon which stares at Zuko, as Aang trembles. Zuko looks at it, with his mouth wide open. Cut to Aang trembles, as shot cuts to the two dragons sitting, with their legs at the bottom of the bridge. Cut to the red dragon as it breathes fire at the two. Cut to the blue dragon doing the same. Cut to Zuko and Aang yelling and covering their faces as they are engulfed by a multi-colored flame vortex. Cut to the top of the vortex from inside it. It slowly pans down to the boys who look at it, shocked. Cut to the bridge as the dragons continue breathing fire. Screen pans above to the flame vortex. Cut to the inside of the vortex and the two stare at the scene in awe. Cut to Aang's eyes.
|[Cut to Zuko's face, as he stares at the flames.] I understand.
|The vortex slowly dissipates and the dragons curl their bodies, fly up, circle one time and go into their caves. Cut to the boys who still remain on the bridge. Cut to an annoyed Ham Ghao, before cutting to one of the warriors holding the circle of fire as he moves his arm in a circle, and extinguishes the flame and ending his hands in a position. Cut to an aerial shot of Zuko and Aang descending from the steps.
|[Cut to Zuko.] Their fire was beautiful. I saw so many colors, colors I've never imagined.
|[Cut to the two descending from the side.] Like firebending harmony.
|Sun Warrior chief
|Yes. They judged you, and gave you visions of the meaning of firebending. [The other two Sun Warriors walk away.]
|[Cut to Zuko.] I can't believe there are still living dragons. My uncle Iroh said he faced the last dragon and killed it.
|[Looking at Zuko.] So your uncle lied.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Cut to the smiling chief from the side.] Actually, it wasn't a total lie. Iroh was the last outsider to face the masters. [Raising his hand above slightly.] They deemed him worthy and passed the secret onto him as well.
|[Surprised. Shot cuts to an aerial shot of the courtyard.] He must have lied to protect them, so no one else would hunt them.
|[Cut to Aang.] All this time, I thought firebending was destruction. Since I hurt Katara, I've been too afraid and hesitant. But now I know what it really is... it's energy, and life. [He smiles.]
|Yeah. It's like the Sun, [He curls his hand into a fist.] but inside of you. Do you guys realize this?
|Sun Warrior chief
|[Smiling.] Well, our civilization is called the Sun Warriors... so yeah.
|That's why my firebending was so weak before. Because for so many years, hunting you [Turns toward Aang as screen zooms out to show Aang.] was my drive... it was my purpose. [Aang turns toward Zuko as well.] So when I joined you, I lost sight of my inner fire. But now, I have a new drive. [Cut to Zuko's face as screen zooms in.] I have to help you defeat my father and restore balance to the world.
|Zuko delivers two fire blasts more powerful than in the Western Air Temple. Aang also bends a similar blast. Cut to Aang's face, as he grins at his success. Cut to both of them, who walk toward each other, smiling.
|Sun Warrior chief
|[He walks toward the two and become serious.] Now that you have learned the secrets, and you know about our tribe's existence, [He stops walking.] we have no choice but to imprison you here forever. [Cut to the two, who are shocked, before cutting back to the smiling chief.] Just kidding. [Cut to the two as they look relieved. The chief's expression becomes serious again.] But seriously, don't tell anyone!
|Scene changes to the upside-down pagodas in the Western Air Temple.
|[Cut to Aang and Zuko demonstrating the Dancing Dragon to the rest of Team Avatar and friends.] With this technique the dragons showed us, Zuko and I will be unstoppable.
|The two get into their final postures and Team Avatar applauds.
|Yeah, that's a great dance you two learned there.
|It's not a dance. It's a firebending form.
|[Cut to Sokka, as he moves his fingers in a dancing manner.] We'll just tap-dance our way to victory over the Fire Lord.
|[Walks toward Sokka.] It's a sacred form that happens to be thousands of years old!
|Oh, yeah? What's your little form called?
|[Embarrassed.] The Dancing Dragon.
|Team Avatar laughs, and the shot cuts to Zuko who shuts his eyes and cringes in embarrassment.
Next morning, Zuko appear into the courtyard, limbering up and stretching. Sokka enters running towards him with his sword on his back.
|Hey Zuko, up for a little swordbending?
|I'm suppose to be teaching Aang. And don't call it "swordbending." That's not even a real word.
|Aang's busy with Toph! Besides, it's about time we had a duel - we're the only two swordbenders here!
|[Unimpressed, turns and walks away.] I think I'm a little past your level Sokka. Why don't you practice with the Duke or something.
|The Duke? But he's, like, eight years old!
|He should be a good match for you, then.
|[Determined.] Alright, Zuko. You leave me no choice. [Draws his sword.] I challenge you to a swordbending kai! [Zuko stares at him slightly disgusted.] You know, like an agni kai, instead with swords instead of fire . . .
|[Interupting] Yeah I get it! But there is no such thing as a "swordbending kai." [Sokka looks at him all sad. Zuko sighs, putting his palm over his scarred eye.] But honour demands that I accept your challenge.
|[Jumping] Woo!
|Cut ot later in the day. The rest of the Team have gathered and our sitting on pieces of rubble. Zuko and Sokka face each other in the middle of a ring, while Aang acts as referee and holds them back from each other until the duel starts.
|Finally! Some action around here!
|[To Sokka.] Don't get your hopes up Sokka. I started training with Master Piandao since when I was just a kid . . . [Positions himself with his dao swords behind him.] . . .So I think I can take a beginner like you.
|Alright, you guys. I want this to be a good, clean swordbending match!
|[Smiling.] There's no such thing!
|[Smiling also. Both wait for Aang to whistle and they charge at each other.] So you think you're hot stuff, huh?
|[From the sidelines, holding up a sign of a waterbending symbol above a sword (representing Sokka). Toph is also holding a sign, but of Zuko upside down.] Go, Water Tribe!
|[Swords clash together.] Lemme show you how we do things down south!
|[Sokka swings at him, but he side steps.] Like I said . . . [ Swings at Sokka who narrowly deflects it, exclaiming. Sokka falls backwards and hits the dirt. Zuko looks over smiling.] . . . Don't get your hopes up.
|Aang holds his arm out indicating Zuko's victory. Katara looks in annoyed, while Toph smiles and waves around her now right way up sign.
|[Annoyed.] Rematch. Now.
|[Cutting to later, after another victory for Zuko, knocking Sokka down with a kick.] Another loss for Sokka!
|[Cutting again to later. Burying her face after Sokka falls flat on his face.] Ouch.
|[Smiling, holding his right blade towards Sokka.] This is ridiculous. I'm obviously better than you. Why don't you just give up?
|[Standing up, brushing the dust from his clothes.] This from the guy who unsuccessfully hunted Aang for years?
|That was totally different!
|Sure . . . [Raising his sword and charges.] . . . 'Cause it'll only take me three minutes to beat you!
|[Knocks Sokka's sword from his hands.] You were saying? [Sokka stares on at his blade, but then looks behind him. he Smiles as he reaches for his boomerang, throwing it at Zuko, who narrowly ducks.] Hey! No boomerangs in swordbending. [Pauses as he realized what he said, as Boomerang starts spinning around.] Wait . . . I mean . . . [Boomerang hit him square in the back of the head and Zuko drops to his knees.]
|[watching on as Sokka catches Boomerang.] Zuko's right, you know. You did cheat, so he still wins the match.
|[Smuggly.] I may have lost the battle of swords, young Avatar . . . [Holds his arms up.] . . . But I won the war of words.
|Cut to later at night with everyone gathered around the fire. Sokka raises his glass.
|A toast, to the best swordbender around. Zuko.
|I'm touched. I don't deserve this.
|[Angrily.] Yeah, no kidding. [Walks away.]
|What's with her?
|I wish I knew. [Follows her.]
|Cuts to shot of the entire campsite.
|[Voice-over.] What's with him?
|Cuts to shot of a waxing gibbous moon, partially obscured by the clouds. Cuts to shot of Katara overlooking the cliff, Zuko approaching her from behind. She catches sight of him and immediately grows antagonistic. Growing angry at his presence, she walks away.
|This isn't fair! Everyone else seems to trust me now! What is it with you?
|[Furiously.] Oh, everyone trusts you now! I was the first person to trust you! Remember, back in Ba Sing Se. [Points to canyon.] And you turned around and betrayed me, betrayed all of us!
|[Closes eyes in resentment.] What can I do to make it up to you?
|[Cuts to shot of her and Zuko standing on the cliff as she approaches him while snapping at him angrily.] You really want to know? Hmm, maybe you could reconquer Ba Sing Se in the name of the Earth King. [Cuts to side-view of her and Zuko.] Or, I know! You could bring my mother back!
|She storms away, leaving Zuko disappointed. Cuts to shot of entire cliff side, the waves crashing against the rocky wall. The scene switches to the campsite where Zuko enters Sokka's room, a look of shock spreading across his face.
|[Looking at him self in a makeshift mirror pulling poses, surrounded by lit candles.] Well, hello... [Turns around, surprised to find Zuko in his tent.] Uh, Zuko! Yes, why would I be expecting anyone different? So what's on your mind?
|Your sister. She hates me! And I don't know why, but I do care what she thinks of me.
|Nah, she doesn't hate you. Katara doesn't hate anyone. Except maybe some people in the Fire Nation. [His eyes widen as he realizes his mistake.] No, I mean, uh, not people who are good, but used to be bad. I mean, bad people. Fire Nation people who are still bad, who've never been good and probably won't be, ever!
|[Interrupting him.] Stop. Okay, listen. I know this may seem out of nowhere, but I want you to tell me what happened to your mother.
|[Slightly taken aback.] What? Why would you want to know that?
|Katara mentioned it before when we were imprisoned together in Ba Sing Se, and again just now when she was yelling at me. I think somehow she's connected her anger at that to her anger at me.
|[Sadly.] It's not a day I like to remember.
|A flashback is shown of a younger Katara having a snowball fight with her brother. Sokka peers over a snow wall and prepares to throw a snowball at his sister only to be hit by a snowball thrown by a younger Katara, off-screen. Cuts to shot of Katara, who giggles joyfully. Cuts to shot of Sokka, who climbs over the snow wall, carrying an exceptionally large snowball. He drops it, however, upon witnessing blackened snow falling from the sky.
|Young Katara
|I'm going to find Mom! [Runs off.]
|[Voice-over.] Many of the warriors had seen the black snow before and they knew what it meant: a Fire Nation raid. [A battle scene is depicted of Water Tribe Warriors and Fire Nation soldiers charging and attacking one another.] We were badly outnumbered, but somehow, we managed to drive them off. As quickly as they came, they just left.
|Cuts to shot of Sokka tossing his boomerang toward the retreating soldiers. The scene switches back to present day.
|I was so relieved when it was over, but that's because I didn't know yet what had happened. I didn't know we had lost our mother.
|Wait. Can you remember any details about the soldiers who raided your village? Like what the lead ship looked like?
|Yeah... sea ravens. [Scene shows flashback of three red flags waving in the breeze, bearing sea ravens.] The main ship had flags with sea ravens on them.
|The symbol of the Southern Raiders. Thanks, Sokka.
|[Urging Zuko hurriedly out of the tent.] No problem. Thanks for stopping by! [Zuko leaves.] I'd thought he'd never leave.
|The next day, Katara emerges from her room to find Zuko waiting outside, sitting on a rock.
|[Angrily.] You look terrible.
|I waited out here all night.
|[Brushing her hair.] What do you want?
|I know who killed your mother, [She abruptly stops.] and I'm going to help you find him.
|Katara casts him a look of shock, which soon turns to a look of anger.
The scene changes to later in the day where Aang is feeding Appa hay. Sokka fiddles around with a flower necklace. Katara and Zuko approach the bison, Zuko carrying a sack slung over his shoulder.
|I need to borrow Appa.
|[Jokingly.] Why? Is it your turn to take a little field trip with Zuko?
|Yes, it is.
|[Slightly surprised.] Oh. What's going on?
|We're going to find the man who took my mother from me.
|Sokka pauses and stands up, surprised.
|Sokka told me the story of what happened. I know who did it and I know how to find him.
|Um... and what exactly do you think this will accomplish?
|[Shakes her head in dismay.] Ugh, I knew you wouldn't understand. [Begins to walk away.]
|Wait! Stop! I do understand. You're feeling unbelievable pain and rage. How do think I felt about the sandbenders when they stole Appa? How do you think I felt about the Fire Nation when I found out what happened to my people?
|She needs this, Aang. This is about getting closure and justice.
|I don't think so. I think it's about getting revenge.
|[Angrily.] Fine, maybe it is! Maybe that's what I need! Maybe that's what he deserves!
|Katara, you sound like Azula.
|It's not the same! Azula attacks who ever she feels like. This man, he's a monster.
|Katara, she was my mother, too, but I think Aang might be right.
|Then you didn't love her the way I did!
|[Hurt.] Katara!
|The monks used to say that revenge is like a two-headed rat viper. While you watch your enemy go down, you're being poisoned yourself.
|That's cute, but this isn't air temple preschool. It's the real world.
|Now that I know he's out there... now that I know we can find him, I feel like I have no choice.
|Katara, you do have a choice: forgiveness.
|That's the same as doing nothing!
|No, it's not. It's easy to do nothing, but it's hard to forgive.
|It's not just hard, it's impossible. [Cuts to overhead shot of the temple as she walks away, Zuko following behind.]
|The scene changes to later that night where Katara is seen dressed in a black cloak, tying her hair in a ponytail.
|[Emerges from behind a rock.] So you were just gonna take Appa anyway?
|It's okay, because I forgive you. [Pauses.] That give you any ideas?
|Don't try to stop us.
|I wasn't planning to. This is a journey you need to take. You need to face this man. [Katara situates herself on Appa's head.] But when you do, please don't choose revenge. Let your anger out, and then let it go. Forgive him.
|[Sarcastically.] Okay, we'll be sure to do that, guru goody-goody. [Climbs aboard Appa.]
|Thanks for understanding, Aang. Yip-yip. [Appa takes flight; Aang and Sokka look up at the departing bison, their backs facing the camera.]
|You know, you're pretty wise for a kid.
|Thanks, Sokka.
|[Cuts to shot of the two standing together looking up.] Usually it's annoying, but right now, I'm impressed.
|I appreciate that.
|So, can I borrow Momo for a week?
|[Surprised.] Why do you need Momo?
|Sokka simply shrugs.
The scene changes to Zuko and Katara flying on Appa, heading straight for the camera.
|We need to find the Fire Navy communication tower. All the navy's movements are coordinated by messenger hawk. And every tower has to be up to date on where everyone is deployed.
|[Cuts to shot of the communication tower situated on an island in the middle of the ocean; off-camera.] So once we find the communication tower, we bust in and take the information we need.
|[Voice-over.] Not exactly. We need to be stealthy and make sure no one spots us, [Cuts to shot of the communication tower, the camera panning downward.] otherwise they'll warn the Southern Raiders long before we reach them.
|The scene switches to where Zuko and Katara run out from behind a mass of large rocks. Using waterbending, Katara creates a raft of ice for her and Zuko to ride on to the communication tower. The scene cuts to a corridor of tower where the two are crouched in a corner, watching two guards walk out a door. After the guards have passed, they stealthily run through the open door. The scene cuts to a female guard sitting at a writing desk. The duo peers at her from overhead gratings. Katara waterbends the ink onto the guard's hands. She rises from the desk and walks away. Katara and Zuko use the time to comb through the files stored in the drawers.
|Okay, Southern Raiders. [Opens a scroll.] Bam. [Points to location on map; off-camera.] On patrol near Whaletail Island.
|[Cuts to shot of Zuko and Katara looking at the map.] Whaletail Island, here we come.
|The scene changes to the next morning. Zuko arises from his sleep and looks at Katara steering Appa. She has dark circles under her eyes from lack of sleep.
|You should get some rest. We'll be there in a few hours. You'll need all your strength.
|Oh, don't you worry about my strength. I have plenty. I'm not the helpless little girl I was when they came.
|The scene fades into a flashback of the Southern Raiders' attack.
|Young Katara
|I'm going to find Mom.
|She runs nervously past her brother. Several Water Tribe warriors are shown running about in a frantic motion. The camera focuses on Katara again, who arrives at their igloo and pushes back the curtain.
|Young Katara
|She runs in to discover her mother seated on the floor, a man towering over her.
|Just let her go and I'll give you the information you want.
|Yon Rha
|You heard your mother. Get out of here!
|Young Katara
|Mommy, I'm scared.
|Go find your dad, sweetie. I'll handle this.
|Katara gazes into the menacing eyes of the Southern Raiders commander and runs off. The scene changes to her sprinting across the snowy battlefield.
|[Voice-over.] I ran as fast as I could.
|Young Katara
|[Arrives to where her father is battling Fire Nation soldiers.] Dad, Dad! Please, I think Mom's in trouble! There's a man in our house!
|The two run to their house frantically. Hakoda pushes back the blue drapes before the scene fades to white back to present day.
|But we were too late. When we got there, the man was gone. [Voice begins breaking.] And so was she.
|Your mother was a brave woman.
|[Clutches her necklace.] I know.
|The scene changes to later that night, where Zuko has taken command of Appa and Katara is sleeping on Appa's saddle. Zuko is looking through a telescope.
|There! [Katara looks up.] See those sea raven flags? [Tosses the telescope to Katara.] It's the Southern Raiders.
|[Determined.] Let's do this.
|Appa submerges underwater, Katara waterbending an air bubble around his head so they can breathe. The camera cuts to a shot of a group of Fire Nation soldiers having a conversation on the deck of the ship.
|So there I was, and I was like, 'You know...'
|He yells as a large water whip emerges from the surface and coils around his body, dragging him off the ship. The other soldiers run to the source of the incident in shock. Appa surfaces and Katara waterbends two huge waves at the ship. The others turn around to see the torrent of water flood the ship, washing them overboard. Appa lands on the deck. One soldier, who has managed to stay aboard the ship, attacks Katara, who pushes him away with a gush of water. She and Zuko make their way through the corridors of the ship, Katara's arms covered in water for defense. One soldier bursts from his cabin, a sword in hand only to be attacked and locked back inside by Zuko. Katara follows him to a large doorway, where they abruptly halt.
|This is it, Katara. Are you ready to face him?
|Katara pulls down her face mask and lets out a cry as she sends a powerful stream of water toward the door. The scene changes to the inside of the room, the door having been knocked down by the impact of the water. The Southern Raiders commander attempts to attack Zuko, who only deflects his firebending attacks.
|Southern Raiders commander
|Who are you?
|You don't remember her? You will soon, trust me.
|The Southern Raiders commander prepares to strike once more, however, his hand gets covered in water, that freezes instantly over his major body pats. He fails to move and begins trembling.
|Southern Raiders commander
|What's... [He attempts to control his frozen arm which bends about uncontrollably.] happening to me?
|The camera focuses on Katara using waterbending in the ice on him. With swift motions, she forces him to the ground. Zuko looks on at her, momentarily stunned before turning his attention back to the commander.
|Think back. Think back to your last raid on the Southern Water Tribe.
|Southern Raiders commander
|[Helplessly subdued.] I don't know what you're talking about. Please, I don't know!
|[Bending down closer to the commander.] Don't lie! You look her in the eye and you tell me you don't remember what you did.
|Katara waterbends him, fixing him into a position where the Southern Raiders commander looks right into her eyes. She gives him a cold, hard stare. The camera closes up on one of the commander's eyes before cutting to where Katara's face has changed from one of hate to one of shock.
|It's not him. [She frees him from her grip. The ice smashes] He's not the man.
|What? What do you mean he's not? He's the leader of the Southern Raiders! He has to be the guy!
|Katara remains silent and begins walking away. Zuko grabs the weak commander and pins him to the wall.
|If you're not the man we're looking for, who is?
|Southern Raiders commander
|You must be looking for Yon Rha. He retired four years ago.
|The camera focuses on Katara, whose eyes are filled with tears. The scene changes to a shot of the ground where an anonymous character rakes the soil with a trough. Cuts to a side-view shot of a house where a man is tending to his garden. The sky is dark and gray with storm clouds. An elderly woman walks up to the open door of the house behind him.
|Yon Rha's mother
|Yon Rha! You lazy piece of work, I need something.
|Yon Rha
|Yes, Mother. What is it?
|Yon Rha's mother
|The tomato-carrots from your garden are too hard for my gums. I need something soft and juicy!
|Yon Rha
|Would you like something else from the garden? I would be happy to...
|Yon Rha's mother
|[Angrily.] Forget your stupid garden! Get your grimy hind to the market and buy me some real food!
|The scene changes to where Yon Rha is walking to the marketplace of his village, the place almost desolate. He begins to buy vegetables from a stand. A wind chime tinkles from one of the other stands. Yon Rha sharply turns around to view the suspicious activity. The camera view changes to someone ducking behind the stand.
|Yon Rha
|[Suspiciously.] Hello? [To stand owner.] Did you see someone?
|The stand owner shakes his head. Yon Rha is later seen walking back to house down some steps. He stops again and looks up.
|Yon Rha
|Hello? [Camera view shifts to show someone hiding.] Is someone there?
|He resumes walking again. Katara and Zuko appear from their hiding place.
|That was him. That was the monster.
|The scene cuts to where Yon Rha is walking, rain beginning to fall. He turns and stops once more.
|Yon Rha
|Nobody sneaks up on me without getting burned! [Drops basket of vegetables and firebends at a nearby bush.]
|Sensing no one, he picks up the fallen vegetables and continues on his way. He unknowingly steps on a thin wire, causing him to fall into the mud. He tries to get up only to see a fire blast coming his way which he quickly avoids. Zuko appears before him.
|We weren't behind the bush. And I wouldn't try firebending again!
|Yon Rha
|[Frightened.] Whoever you are, take my money. Take whatever you want. I'll cooperate.
|Katara walks up to Yon Rha and pulls down her face mask.
|Do you know who I am?
|Yon Rha
|No. I'm not sure.
|Oh, you better remember me like your life depends on it! Why don't you take a closer look? [Camera focuses on front view of her face.]
|Yon Rha
|[Camera focuses on him.] Yes, yes, I remember you now. [Focuses on Katara again.] You're that little Water Tribe girl.
|Lightning strikes, darkening the screen and flashing back to the incident in the igloo with the young Katara, her mother and Yon Rha.
|Just let her go and I'll give you the information you want.
|Yon Rha
|You heard your mother. Get out of here!
|Young Katara
|Mommy, I'm scared.
|Go find your dad, sweetie. I'll handle this.
|Young Katara leaves the igloo. Yon Rha faces Kya again.
|Yon Rha
|Now tell me, who is it? Who's the waterbender?
|There are no waterbenders here. The Fire Nation took them all away a long time ago.
|Yon Rha
|You're lying. My source says there's one waterbender left in the Southern Water Tribe. We're not leaving until we find the waterbender!
|If I tell you, do you promise to leave the rest of the village alone? [Yon Rha nods.] It's me. Take me as your prisoner.
|Yon Rha
|[Smiles evilly.] I'm afraid I'm not taking prisoners today...
|The flashback ends. Yon Rha gulps in terror. Lightning strikes in the background.
|She lied to you! [Turns away from Yon Rha.] She was protecting the last waterbender!
|Yon Rha
|[Shocked.] What? Who?
|[Turns to face him again.] Me!
|She holds both her arms out, halting the falling raindrops and creating a shield above the three of them. After a few moments, she sends a forceful stream of water at Yon Rha, transforming the stream into a flurry of ice daggers midway through her attack. Yon Rha crouches in fear, preparing to be hit. When he does not feel harmed, he looks up to see the ice daggers floating in midair. Katara's expression softens and she allows for the daggers to liquefy and drop to the ground.
|Yon Rha
|[Falls to his knees.] I did a bad thing! I know I did and you deserve revenge, so why don't you take my mother? That would be fair! [Attempts to smile weakly.]
|[Sorrowfully.] I always wondered what kind of person could do such a thing, but now that I see you, I think I understand. There's just nothing inside you, nothing at all. You're pathetic and sad and empty.
|Yon Rha
|[Humbly.] Please, spare me! [Cries.]
|But as much as I hate you... [Turns away.] I just can't do it.
|Yon Rha appears to be grateful for being spared; however, Zuko shoots him an angry look. Yon Rha continues crying and shivering in the rain. The scene cuts to a boardwalk overlooking the water. It is later that day. Scene cuts to Katara, who is sitting on the edge of the dock, her eyes closed, paddling the water with her feet. She opens her eyes sadly as Aang and Zuko approach her.
|Katara? Are you okay?
|I'm doing fine.
|Zuko told me what you did. Or what you didn't do, I guess. I'm proud of you.
|I wanted to do it. I wanted to take out all my anger at him, but I couldn't. I don't know if it's because I'm too weak to do it or because I'm strong enough not to.
|You did the right thing. Forgiveness is the first step you have to take to begin healing.
|[Rises from boardwalk.] But I didn't forgive him. I'll never forgive him. [Smiles at Zuko and walks up to him.] But I am ready to forgive you.
|The two hug and Katara begins walking away. Zuko looks back smiling before looking towards the setting sun.
The Boiling Rock
|The scene opens to the Western Air Temple at nightfall. Zuko is pouring tea to give to the members of Team Avatar.
|No one can make tea like Uncle, but hopefully I learned a thing or two. Would you like to hear Uncle's favorite tea joke?
|I like jokes.
|Bring it!
|Okay. [Serves tea to The Duke and Haru.] Well, I can't remember how it starts, but the punch line is "Leaf me alone, I'm bushed!" [No response.] Well, it's funnier when Uncle tells it.
|Right... maybe that's because he remembers the whole thing.
|Everyone else laughs. Zuko smiles a little.
|It's nice to get a chance to relax a little. It hardly ever happens.
|Zuko hands tea to Teo and Toph. He then approaches Sokka.
|Hey, can I talk to you for a second? [Stands up and walks out.]
|Zuko sets down the tray of tea. The camera switches to a shot of him and Sokka walking away from where the rest of the group is gathered.
|So, what's up? [Appa wakes up and looks as they walk past him.]
|If someone was captured by the Fire Nation, where would they be taken?
|What do you mean? Who was captured?
|When the invasion plan failed, some of our troops were taken. I just want to know where they might be.
|I can't tell you.
|What? Why not?
|Trust me. Knowing would just make you feel worse. [Turns to leave, but is stopped by Sokka.]
|It's my dad. He was captured too. I need to know what I put him through.
|It's not good, Sokka.
|My guess is, they were taken to the Boiling Rock.
|What's that?
|The highest security prison in the Fire Nation. [Sokka looks at him, horrified.] It's on an island in the middle of a boiling lake. It's inescapable.
|So, where is this place?
|Why do you need to know? What are you planning?
|Nothing. [Pauses for a moment.] Boy, you're so paranoid.
|It's in the middle of a volcano between here and the Fire Nation. You guys actually flew right past it on your way here.
|Thanks, Zuko. [Yawns.] Just knowing makes me feel better.
|[Sarcastically.] Yeah, I'm sure it does.
|Fade to later that night. With everyone asleep, Sokka sneaks away from everyone. He sighs and almost steps on Momo, narrowly avoiding tripping over him and waking him up. He climbs onto Appa, who awakes.
|[To Appa.] Shhh.
|Appa goes back to sleep, as Sokka climbs on top of him. However, as he climbs up, he notices Zuko is already in the saddle with his arms crossed.
|Not up to anything, huh?
|[Falls off Appa, his bag's contents fall out.] What are you doing here?
|I have been going back and forth on Appa for the last few occassions. It's becoming a habit. And what about you? I guess knowing didn't making you feel beter.
|Fine, you caught me. I'm gonna rescue my dad. You happy now?
|I'm never happy.
|[Picking up the fallen items.] Look, I have to do this. The invasion plan was my idea, it was my decision to stay when things were going wrong. [Zuko jumps off of Appa.] It's my mistake, and it's my job to fix it. I have to regain my honor. You can't stop me, Zuko. [Pushes Zuko aside and begins to climb up Appa on Appa's saddle.]
|You need to regain your honor? Believe me, I get it. I'm going with you.
|No. I have to do this alone.
|How are you going to get there? On Appa? Last time I checked, prisons don't have bison daycares. [Sokka stops climbing, sighs, and looks back at Zuko.] We'll take my war balloon. [They walk off to the war balloon.]
|Cut to Appa and Momo, still sleeping at sunrise. The Duke gives Appa some hay. Katara notices that Momo is holding a note.
|What does it say?
|"Need meat. Gone fishing. Back in a few days. Sokka and Zuko." [As she says this, Aang yawns and turns around to lie back down.] One more thing. "Aang, practice your firebending while I'm gone. Do twenty sets of fire fists and ten hot squats every time you hear a badgerfrog croak. Zuko."
|A badgerfrog croaks, waking Aang from his rest.
|[Sighs.] Nobody else has homework. [Stands up and walks to a spot and starts hot squatting while Katara and Toph walk away.] One hot squat, two hot squat, three hot squat, four hot squat...
|Scene cuts to Zuko and Sokka in the air in the war balloon. Zuko blasts fire into the tank to keep it moving. A moment of awkward silence between the two follows.
|Pretty clouds.
|Yeah... fluffy. [Sokka whistles.] What?
|What? Oh, I didn't say anything. You know, a friend of mine actually designed these war balloons.
|No kidding.
|Yep, a balloon... but for war.
|If there's one thing my dad's good at, it's war. [Blasts more fire into the tank.]
|Yeah, it seems to run in the family.
|[Looks at Sokka, defensively.] Hey, hold on. Not everyone in my family is like that.
|I know, I know, you've changed.
|[Downcast.] I meant my uncle. He was more of a father to me. And I really let him down.
|I think your uncle would be proud of you. Leaving your home to come help us? That's hard.
|It wasn't that hard.
|Really? You didn't leave behind anyone you cared about?
|Well, I did have a girlfriend. Mai.
|[Smiles and looks at Zuko with interest.] That gloomy girl who sighs a lot?
|[Smiles.] Yeah. Everyone in the Fire Nation thinks I'm a traitor. I couldn't drag her into it.
|My first girlfriend turned into the moon.
|[Shocked for a moment. Looks up at the sky briefly, before glancing back at Sokka.] That's rough, buddy.
|Nightfall. Sokka is asleep, snoring loudly. Zuko continues to keep the tank full. He stops to look out in the distance.
|There it is! [Sokka awakens to see it.] There's plenty of steam to keep us covered. As long as we're quiet, we should be able to navigate through it without being caught.
|As they enter the volcano's steam, the balloon begins losing altitude quickly.
|[Frantically blasting fire into the tank.] We're going down! The balloon's not working anymore! [Blasts fire up into the balloon.]
|The air outside is just as hot as the air inside so we can't fly!
|[Falls to the side as the balloon tips.] So what are we supposed to do?
|I don't know! Crash-landing?
|The balloon skids along the boiling water, splashing Sokka's hand, which he shakes while blocking his mouth to prevent himself from screaming. The balloon hits the base of the rock, ejecting the two from it.
|[Looking at the destroyed war balloon.] How are we gonna get off the island if the balloon won't work?
|We'll figure something out! I suspected it might be a one-way ticket.
|You knew this would happen and you wanted to come anyway?
|[Walks to the destroyed balloon.] My dad might be here! I had to come and see!
|Uncle always said I never thought things through. But this... this is just crazy!
|[Gathers parts from the balloon together.] Hey, I never wanted you to come along in the first place! And for the record, I always think things through! But my plans haven't exactly worked, so this time, I'm playing it by ear. So there. [After the hot water on the balloon burns his hand, Sokka kicks it into the water.]
|What are you doing?
|It doesn't work anyway, and we don't want anyone to find it.
|I hope you know what you're doing. [They both turn to look at the prison.] There's no turning back now.
|Morning. Zuko and Sokka have entered the prison, and come out of a supply room filled with reserve guard uniforms. Both of them wear prison guard uniforms.
|I hope these disguises work.
|We just need to lay low and find my dad as soon as possible.
|A series of guards run by. One of them runs back and looks at them.
|Male guard
|Guards! There's a scuffle in the yard. Come on.
|The two go to the yard. Prisoners are gathered in a circle as the guards move through to the inside.
|Chit Sang
|I didn't do anything! I'm going back to my cell.
|Bully guard
|[Whips fire at him.] Stop right there, Chit Sang.
|Zuko tries to approach, but Sokka grabs his arm to stop him.
|We can't blow our cover.
|Bully guard
|I've had it with your unruly behavior!
|Chit Sang
|What did I do?
|Bully guard
|He wants to know what he did. [To Zuko and Sokka.] Isn't that cute? [Gives them a look when they say nothing.]
|Uh, very cute, sir.
|Super cute.
|Bully guard
|[Walks up to Chit Sang.] You didn't bow down when I walked by, Chit Sang!
|Chit Sang
|What? That's not a prison rule.
|Bully guard
|Do it!
|Chit Sang
|Make me.
|The bully guard walks away. But then, as he is leaving, he whips fire at Chit Sang. Chit Sang blocks it, and redirects it at him. The bully guard breaks the blast with a kick.
|Bully guard
|Tsk, tsk. Firebending is prohibited. You're going in the cooler. [Pointing at Sokka.] You! Help me take him in.
|[Whispers to Zuko.] Meet back here in an hour. [Runs up to Chit Sang and the guard.]
|Back inside, Chit Sang is led to a cooler.
|Bully guard
|The warden will deal with you soon. [Sokka closes the doors.] Can you believe this guy?
|[Playing along.] Prisoners! Am I right?
|Bully guard
|Ugh. Tell me about it.
|Meal time for the guards. Zuko is getting food, noticeably the only guard wearing a helmet.
|Male guard
|Hey, new guy! I know it's the rule to have your helmet on at all times, but this is the lounge. Relax.
|But what if there's an incident? If I'm not prepared, someone could strike me on the head.
|The guards laugh.
|Female guard
|Give it a week, he'll loosen up.
|Can the new guy ask you veterans a few questions about the prison?
|Female guard
|No, you can't date the female guards.
|Male guard
|Trust me, you don't want to. [The female guard throws a cup at him, which causes the guard sitting behind him to laugh.]
|No, that's not it. The Boiling Rock, it holds the Fire Nation's most dangerous criminals, right? [The other guards nod.] So what about war prisoners?
|In the yard, the warden arrives on the gondolas. Meanwhile, Sokka and the bully guard continue to stand guard by the cooler. Sokka is looking inside at Chit Sang who is shivering.
|It sure looks cold in there.
|Bully guard
|That's why we call it the cooler. He won't be firebending there. [Notices someone coming; lowers his mask.] It's the warden! [He and Sokka stand to attention.] Look alive!
|[Opens the cooler.] So Chit Sang, I hear you used firebending to try to escape. You should know better.
|Chit Sang
|I wasn't trying to escape.
|Bully guard
|He's lying! I saw it with my own eyes. [He is pushed aside by one of the Warden's bodyguards.]
|No one has ever, ever escaped from here. I'd sooner jump in the Boiling Lake myself than let that record fall. Don't forget it. Now go back to your shivering.
|Back in the yard. Zuko approaches Sokka, but does not know it is him.
|Hey there, fellow guard, how goes it?
|[Lifts up his helmet's visor.] Zuko?
|Shhh! Listen, I asked around the lounge. There are no Water Tribe prisoners. [Lifts up his visor.] I'm afraid your father's not here.
|What? Are you sure, did you double-check?
|Yeah, I'm sure.
|No. No! [Bangs his fists against the wall in frustration.]
|I'm really sorry, Sokka.
|So we came all this way for nothing? I failed... again.
|Ah, what would Uncle say? [Looks up at the sky.] Sometimes, clouds have two sides, a dark and light, and a silver lining in between. It's like a silver sandwich! So, when life seems hard, take a bite out of the silver sandwich!
|As Zuko talks, Sokka notices something that almost immediately cheers him up. He runs up to Zuko, looking to the yard below.
|Maybe we haven't failed after all!
|That's the spirit! I can't believe that worked. I didn't even know what I was saying.
|No, what you said made no sense at all. But look... [Pointing.] It's Suki!
|Suki is sitting in the prison yard, now in prison garb.
|Prisoners, back in your cells!
|Sokka eyes form heart shapes and he quickly runs off to Suki's cell. Sokka enters Suki's cell, but Suki does not realize it's him in disguise.
|What is it? Did I do something wrong?
|You mean you don't recognize me?
|You people all look the same to me.
|Oh? Then maybe you'll recognize this.
|Sokka attempts to kiss Suki, but she shoves him against the door, causing his helmet to come off and revealing him. Suki becomes shocked and then overjoyed.
|Sokka! [Runs up to him.] It's you! [Embraces him and starts to cry tears of joy.]
|[They both stand up.] The other Kyoshi Warriors, are they here?
|No. I don't know where they are. They locked me in here because I'm the leader.
|Well, you won't be here for long. I'm busting you out.
|I'm so glad to see you Sokka. I knew you'd come.
|The now-reunited couple kisses. Outside the cell, Zuko notices a female guard coming. He taps on the cell door to get Sokka and Suki's attention.
|Female guard
|Excuse me. I need to get into that cell.
|No, you can't go in there! [Looks at the prison cell.] The lights are out. The prisoner could sneak up on you.
|Female guard
|Step aside, fool. [Grabs her and slams her against the door.] Hey, hey, what are you doing?
|A struggle begins between the two. Sokka puts his guard helmet back on and leaves the cell.
|Female guard
|[To Sokka.] Guard, help! I think he's an impostor! Arrest him!
|Cut to a view of the gondola making its way to the prison. Cut back to inside the prison as the struggle continues.
|Female guard
|Get him off me and arrest him!
|[Grabs Zuko and throws him down on the floor.] You're under arrest! [Whispering.] Don't worry, I'll figure it out.
|Sokka leads Zuko away, followed by the female guard. Later, Zuko, now in prison garb, is in an isolated room. The door opens, revealing the warden.
|Well, well, well. I never thought I'd find you in here, [Smiles evilly and walks into the cell.] Prince Zuko.
|[Shocked.] How did you know who I am?
|How could I not? You broke my niece's heart.
|[Even more shocked.] You're Mai's uncle? I never meant to hurt her.
|Quiet! You're my special prisoner now. And you'd best behave. If these criminals found out who you are, the traitor prince who let his nation down, why they'd tear you to shreds.
|[Folds his arms.] So what's in it for you? Why don't you just tell my father to come collect a reward?
|Oh, in due time, believe me, I intend to collect. [Walks away and shuts the door.]
|Outside the cells, Sokka comes down and sees Zuko and Suki mopping floors.
|Oh, good, you guys have met.
|Actually, we met a long time ago.
|We did?
|[Somewhat angrily.] Yeah, you kind of burned down my village.
|[Stops mopping for a second.] Oh, sorry about that. Nice to see you again.
|Zuko and Suki stop mopping and hide from the other guards beside a staircase.
|So, listen, I think I have an escape plan. I checked out the coolers again, and the point of them is to keep firebenders contained, right?
|So, they're completely insulated and sealed to keep the cold in. Well, to keep the cold in, it also has to keep the heat out, right?
|Just get to the point, Sokka.
|It's a perfect boat for getting through the boiling water.
|[Exchanges a worried glance with Suki.] The cooler as a boat? Are you sure?
|I'm telling you, it'll work. [Flashes back to Sokka walking around the island; voice-over.] I walked around the perimeter. There's a blind spot between two guard towers. It's the perfect launching point. [Sokka puts a miniature boat in the water and watching it float away.] I already tested it out. We'll roll the cooler into the water and just float with the current. It'll take us straight across. As long as we don't make a sound, no one will notice. [Fade back to Sokka talking to Zuko and Suki.] And bing-bang-boom, we're home free.
|But how are you going to get the cooler out?
|Chit Sang
|[From the staircase.] Yeah, how are you going to get the cooler out? [Jumps down.]
|[Covering up.] What? We didn't... W-we didn't say that.
|Yeah, you heard wrong.
|Chit Sang
|I heard you hatching an escape plan, and I want in.
|There's nothing to get in on.
|Yeah, the only thing we're hatching is... an egg?
|Zuko and Suki sigh in disgust.
|Chit Sang
|Okay, well, I come with you or the warden hears about this egg, too.
|[To Sokka.] I guess we have no choice.
|Okay, you're in. [Handing Zuko a wrench.] Now first we need someone to unbolt the cooler, from the inside.
|Chit Sang
|Oh, I can get you inside.
|Cut to a view of the stairs as two guards look down at the prison area. Chit Sang walks out from behind the stairs and stands in a spot. Zuko pretends to be mopping and bumps into Chit Sang.
|Chit Sang
|Hey! What are you, stupid? Watch where you're going! [Shoves Zuko.]
|Hey, you watch who you're shoving! [He pushes Chit Sang.]
|Chit Sang
|I think you mean whom I'm shoving!
|The two scuffle as the prisoners cheer them on. They break apart and Zuko goes for a punch. Chit Sang throws Zuko onto the floor.
|[Approaching. Yelling.] I need backup over here!
|Zuko dodges Chit Sang as he tries to elbow him. Zuko blasts fire at Chit Sang.
|Male guard
|No firebending! [Pointing.] Into the cooler!
|Zuko is taken down and then escorted away by two guards. Sokka looks at Suki, who is mopping and looks back, as he walks off. Later, Sokka opens the cooler.
|I can take you back to your cell if you've learned your lesson.
|[Raises his head slightly and releases a small breath of fire to warm himself up.] Yes, I have... completely. [Reveals all the removed bolts and screws, which makes Sokka smile.]
|[Lifts his visor; whispering.] I got Suki and Chit Sang out of their cells a few minutes ago. They'll be waiting for us at the shore.
|Someone's coming! [Takes Sokka into the cooler and closes the door.]
|Male guard
|Yeah, new arrivals coming in at dawn.
|Female guard
|Anybody interesting?
|Male guard
|Nah, just the usual. Some robbers, a couple traitors, some war prisoners, [Sokka looks at Zuko with shock and worry.] though I did hear there might be a pirate.
|Female guard
|No fooling!
|War prisoners. It could be your father.
|I know.
|Well, what should we do? Are we going ahead with the plan or are we waiting another night?
|I don't know! Is it right for me to risk Suki's freedom, all of our freedom on the slim chance that my dad is gonna show up?
|It's your call, Sokka.
|Cut to outside the prison, night time. Suki and Chit Sang are waiting for Sokka and Zuko until they hear them above, rolling the, now detached, cooler down the hill. Suki and Chit Sang move to help.
|Chit Sang
|Took you guys long enough. [Cut briefly to two other prisoners, a male sitting on a rock, and a female waving.] This here's my girl and my best buddy, they're coming too.
|Fine. Everybody in the cooler. Let's go. [They move the cooler into the water. Cut to Sokka lifting a rock hiding his Water Tribe outfit.]
|Are you sure you wanna go? You're the one who said you wanted to redeem yourself. Redeem your honor. Rescuing your dad is your chance.
|[Approaching.] Your dad?
|[Turns to Zuko.] If I had just cut my losses at the invasion, maybe we wouldn't be in this mess. Maybe sometimes it's just better to call it quits before you fail.
|No, it's not. Look Sokka, you're going to fail a lot before things work out.
|[Standing.] That supposed to make me feel better?
|[Sokka moves away.] Even though you'll probably fail over and over and over again...
|Seriously, not helping.
|[Grabs Sokka's shoulder.] You have to try every time. You can't quit because you're afraid you might fail.
|Chit Sang
|[Standing by the cooler boat.] Hey, if you two are done cuddling, can we get a move on?
|No. I'm staying. You guys go. [To Suki.] You've been here long enough.
|I'm not leaving without you, Sokka.
|I'm staying, too.
|Chit Sang
|Not me, I'm out. Let's roll, baby. [Pushes the cooler into the lake and jumps in.]
|We gave up our only chance of escaping. I hope we haven't just made a huge mistake.
|As morning arrives, the cooler holding Chit Sang, his buddy, and his girlfriend is still within the perimeter of the prison. The current escapees are sweating as the cooler slowly floats with the current.
|Chit Sang
|Aah, this current is so slow. I can use this to paddle. [Rips off a piece of the cooler. When he puts the piece of metal in the water, the steaming water splashes on to his hand, causing him to scream loudly.]
|A watchman catches notice. Two watchmen hit an alarm bell as we see the Warden approach.
|Guards! Secure the perimeter and lock down the prisoners! Now!
|Many guards appear to lock down the prisoners as we see one guard use a fire whip to control the prisoners. Cut to the outside of the prison walls as the camera pans down to Sokka, Suki, and Zuko.
|The plan failed! They're caught!
|Cut back to the Warden near a launcher.
|Get the fugitives and throw them in the cooler!
|Male guard #2
|Uh... they are in a cooler, sir.
|One that's bolted down and not floating in the water! This is a lockdown! We have new prisoners arriving! Everything must be completely secure!
|The male guard fires a large ballista bolt, catching hold of the cooler, and drags it back toward the prison.
|The gondola's moving. [Cut to a side-view of the gondola approaching the prison. Cut to a view of the prison yard as the gondola nears its stop. Cut to Sokka and Suki now in the yard.] This is it. [Cut to the gondola arriving. Cut to Sokka, Zuko and Suki in the yard.] If my dad's not there, we've risked everything for nothing.
|We had to. [Holds Sokka's hand.]
|Come on, come on...
|Cut to a large man with a tattoo and nose ring comes off the gondola first.
|Is that him? [Cut to Sokka.]
|My dad doesn't have a nose ring. [Cut briefly to the gondola as several men step off.] Where is he? [Cut to the gondola briefly as we see one more prisoner exit. Hakoda does not appear.] That's it? That can't be it.
|[Comforting.] I'm sorry, Sokka.
|Oh, no.
|Male guard
|Hey, you! Get off the gondola!
|Cut to the gondola as Hakoda steps out.
|[Cut to Sokka, Shocked.] Dad...
|Cut back to the Western Air Temple, with Aang sitting on the ground. He is drawing with a stick into the dirt. The image of the symbols for airbending (Aang) and waterbending (Katara)
|Hey! [Aang looks around in surprise. Katara looks over at his drawing.] What are you doing over there?
|[Standing up and hiding the stick behind his back.] Uh . . . nothing, Katara!
|[Camera turns to reveal her holding a ball of water behind her back.] Aang, I have something very important to say to you . . .
|[Happily surprised.] Really? I mean . . . yeah, I've been wanting to talk to you, too, but . . .
|[Throws the water at Aang.] Think fast!
|[Surprised.] What the . . ?! [Water hits and splashes him. Katara laughs while Aang stares angrily in disbelief.] That's it? that's what you had to say to me? I thought maybe you finally wanted to talk about . . .
|[Interupting.] Enough moping around. Time to practiced your firebending. [Positioning for attack.] Watch out or you might get another one in the kisser . . .
|[Losing concentration.] Kiss . . . [Scene changes to the beginning of the invasion. Aang's voice now only heard.] . . . Err . . .
|Past Aang
|Everything's gonna be different after today, isn't it.
|Past Katara
|Yes, it is.
|Past Aang
|What if ... what if I don't come back?
|[Voice.] Kiss . . . Her . . .
|Past Katara
|Aang, don't say that, of course you'll- [Katara is cut off as Aang kisses her. Flashback ends. Cut back to Aang staring into space.]
|[Voice.] Come on Aang! Zuko said to practice your firebending while he's away with Sokka!
|[Waking up, unaware of the water plummeting his way.] Huh? What?
|[Watches as the water splashes over Aang. The water clears and there is a rock pyramid left standing.] Aang . . . ? Are you in there? Hello?
|[From inside the pyramid.] Yeah . . . I'm in here Katara.
|[Cut to Aang inside the pyramid.] Well . . . nice defensive earthbending move . . . but you're supposed to be practicing your firebending!
|I don't really feel like practicing my firebending right now.
|[Cut to outside.] Aang, you have to be ready to battle the Fire Lord. This is not time for games or playing Hide-Aang-Seek.
|[Cut to inside.] Who's really playing games here, Katara? Are you sure you're not the one hiding something? I thought you wanted to talk about what happened before the invasion!
|[Cut to outside. Caught off guard.] Uh . . . I don't know what you are talking about . . . I mean . . . I can't hear you properly from in there so, um . . . just come out and bring the heat!
|[Cut to inside. Angry] Ha! Obviously, you can't handle it when things get a little too hot!
|[Cut to outside. Getting angry and summoning water.] This isn't about us . . . I mean, me . . . I mean, . . . you . . . I mean, you're supposed to be preparing for the Fire Lord! [[Throws the water at the pyramid in the form of icicles.]
|[Cut to inside. Narrowly misses the icicles.] cut it out, Katara! I said I don't feel like doing this right now!
|[Cut to outside.] Come on already, Aang! [Pulls in water over her hands.] Show me some fire!
|[Cut to inside. Standing up in a blazing aura.] Fine! [Takes a firebending stance.] You want fire? [[Ignites his hands.] I'll show you fire!!!
|[Cut to outside. Fire immediately erupts from the top of the pyramid as Katara watches in surprise.] Whoa!
|[[The Pyramid smashes in all directions, with Aang standing in a punching form in the middle of the fire. Looks over as he notices Katara crouched over covering her head.] Oh no! Katara! [Rushes over to her.] I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to hurt you . . . are you ok?
|[Turns around with a smile.] I'm fine Aang - - And that "volcano" move was impressive! [Stands up.] Come on, let's practice it again so that you can show Zuko later . . . [Aang turns and starts walking away.] Where are you going? Are you . . . scared of burning me again?
|[Looks down at his image he drew in the dirt earlier.] Actually . . . [Sighs and brushes it away with his foot.] I'm more worried about being the one who gets burned.
|Cut to an overhead shot of the volcano is seen. Cut to view from some point in the boiling water, where the stronghold lies ahead. Cut to view of the warden walking forward, toward the camera.
|Line 'em up for the warden!
|Cut to an overhead shot of the perimeter on which they are standing, the warden's back facing the camera. Eight prisoners are seen filing in line, one next to the other, including Hakoda. Cut to the end of the line of prisoners where the last of them line up, the camera zooming out to show Hakoda, who stands at the very end of the line on the right side. Cut to Sokka, who walks forward and lifts his guard mask.
|[Exiting a stairway and passing through a lineup of guards, surprising them a bit.] Excuse me, coming through. The warden wants me over there. [Points in the warden's direction.] Sorry!
|Cut to overhead shot of the perimeter, the prisoners lined up toward the right and the guards to the left of the screen. Sokka is seen inching his way behind several guards, taller than him. The warden approaches the new prisoners.
|[Walking past the line of prisoners starting from the left.] Welcome to the Boiling Rock. I'm sure you've all heard the horrible rumors about our little island. Well, I just want to tell you that they don't have to be true, as long as you do everything I say. [He stops in front of Hakoda who looks downward; looks closer at Hakoda.] Look me in the eye when I'm talking to you.
|[Averting his gaze slightly off to the side; firmly.] No.
|Oh? You'd rather look at my shoes? [Angrily.] Then take a look!
|He raises his left leg and drags Hakoda by his handcuffs down onto the floor. Cut to a side-view of Hakoda kneeling over, his face expressing anger. Cut to Sokka standing behind two guards as he gasps in horror. Cut to shot from below Hakoda, where the warden stands over him, keeping his foot firmly pressed on the warrior's handcuffs.
|I know exactly who you are, Hakoda of the Water Tribe. So strong-willed. [Cut to Warden's face.] But don't worry, we'll get rid of that in time. Now look me in the eye!
|Hakoda reluctantly lifts his head to look the warden in the eye and glares hatefully at him.
|[Calmer.] See, isn't that better? [To the other prisoners.] You will all do as I say or pay the price. You will all-
|He begins to walk forward only for Hakoda to lift his left handcuff slightly, tripping the warden and causing him to fall flat on the ground. Sokka stifles a chuckle, as the two guards he was standing behind rush to aid the warden.
|[Standing over him.] Are you okay, sir?
|[Rises and snaps angrily.] I'm fine! Get these prisoners out of my sight!
|He storms away impatiently. The two guards look at each other. Cut to wide-view of the perimeter where the prisoners file one behind the other and are led down a stairwell into what is presumed to be the prison hold. Sokka runs away off-screen. Cuts to inside the prison then to an overhead shot of inside Hakoda's cell, where he sits on his mattress, his face buried in his arms. A sliver of light appears as the doorway to the cell is opened. Hakoda raises his head to see who has entered. Cut to side-view of the entire cell, revealing that Sokka has walked in, still dressed as a guard.
|[Approaches his father.] Thank goodness you're okay.
|[Rises to his feet and extends his right arm out, clenched in a fist, not realizing the guard is his son in disguise; Sokka backs up a bit.] If you take one step closer, you'll see just how "okay" I am.
|[Lifting up his helmet mask.] Dad, it's me.
|[Softens up and grows teary-eyed.] Sokka, [The two embrace; Sokka drops his helmet to the floor.] my son. [Amused.] You know Sokka, you should be more careful with that guard outfit on. I almost punched you in the gut.
|[Rubs the back of his neck sheepishly.] Yeah, I ran into that problem earlier.
|Cut to a dimly-lit corridor. Cut to view of a door as it slides open, revealing Chit Sang sitting inside an interrogation room, cuffed to a wooden chair. The warden walks on-screen into the room. Cut to an overhead shot of the interrogation room as he approaches the prisoner.
|[Calmly.] Are you comfortable, Chit Sang?
|Chit Sang
|[Snaps.] If you're trying to get me to talk, forget it! [The warden appears behind him.] I'm not a squealer!
|[Cuts to close-up of his face; casually.] Chit Sang, I only asked if you were comfortable.
|Chit Sang
|[Brightly.] Well, yeah, actually I am pretty comfortable.
|The warden, in a fit of anger, kicks the chair to the ground. Chit Sang falls forward off screen. Cuts to shot of him lying on the floor, still bound to the chair, his face pressed against the ground. The warden walks up to Chit Sang.
|Are you still comfortable?
|Chit Sang
|I know you and your cronies are not smart enough to come up with that little escape plan. So you're gonna tell me... [Leans in closer to Chit Sang.] who is?
|The warden exits the room. Cut to view of the room, as the two guards hoist the chair upward and set it on the ground. The guard on Chit Sang's left walks over to the doorway and slides the door to the cell closed. Cut to shot of the prison courtyard. Cut to shot of outside Hakoda's cell where Sokka can be seen looking through the open slit in the cell door, averting his eyes in different directions.
|[To Hakoda.] So where's Bato? [Cut to inside the prison cell; Sokka turns away from the door.] Where's everyone else from the invasion?
|The others are being held at a prison near the Fire Nation palace. They singled me out as their leader and sent me here. [Sokka comes by his father and sits down.] But before I left, I met some young women who said they knew you. The... Oshinama Fighters?
|[Smiles.] You mean the Kyoshi Warriors?
|That's right.
|Their leader Suki is here and she's gonna escape with us.
|[Lays a hand on Sokka's shoulder.] Good. We'll need all the help we can get.
|And you know Prince Zuko?
|The son of the Fire Lord? I don't know him, but I know of him.
|Well, he's here too.
|[Crosses his arms angrily.] Sounds like a major problem.
|Actually, he's on our side now. [Cut to Hakoda, who gives his son a suspicious look.] I know. I had the same reaction. After all he's done, it was hard to trust him. But he's really proven himself, and I never would've found you without his help. [Hakoda nods his head at Sokka, indicating that he understands.]
|So, do you have a plan?
|[Downcast.] We had one, but some of the other prisoners got involved and ruined it. [Leans forward and rests his face in his arms.] I dunno if there's another way off this island.
|[Smiles and pats a hand on Sokka's back.] Sokka, there's no prison in the world that can hold two Water Tribe geniuses.
|Then we'd better find two.
|Hakoda laughs. Sokka chuckles nervously. Cut to a ground level shot of inside the prison hold. Sokka approaches a cell door and averts his gaze alertly. He lifts his helmet mask and peers into the slit of a cell doorway.
|[In a hushed voice.] Zuko, are you there?
|[A view of Zuko's eyes appears in the slit from inside the cell.] I'm here.
|I just got done talking to my dad. We came up with an escape plan together.
|Male guard
|[Off-camera; startles Sokka.] What are you doing here?
|Sokka turns around, pulling down his helmet mask. The camera shifts to reveal two guards standing on the stairwell behind him. Cut to shot from in between the two guards.
|[Pointing to the cell and trying to act gruff.] I was just telling this dirty lowlife what I think of him!
|Male guard
|Well, you'll have to do that later. He's coming with us.
|[Puzzled.] Why?
|Female guard
|[Irritated.] Because we have orders straight from the warden, that's why!
|Could I just get ten more seconds to rough him up a bit? [Punches his palm with his fist.]
|Female guard
|Fine, ten seconds.
|The two guards fold their arms. Sokka enters the cell and begins to "rough up" Zuko. The female guard leans against the wall, crosses her arms and shakes her head in mock disapproval.
|[Off-camera from inside the cell.] Take that... and this! [Punching noises come from the cell.]
|Male guard
|[Amused.] Newbie.
|Cut to shot of a bundled-up mattress being held up, several blows being landed to it. Cut to shot of the cell where Sokka is seen punching the mattress which Zuko holds up, the two faking the entire scenario. Zuko shouts a few times in mock pain.
|[In a hushed voice while still punching the mattress.] We have a new plan, but it's gonna need a big distraction. [Cuts to shot of Zuko who peers from behind the blanket; off camera.] Be in the yard in one hour.
|A sliver of light appears as the cell door is opened. Sokka suddenly grabs Zuko and begins to wrestle him to look convincing as the two guards enter.
|Male guard
|[Separates the two.] All right, that's enough.
|Zuko is escorted out of the cell by the guards while Sokka remains behind. Cut to an overhead shot of a hallway, the camera shifting downward to show Zuko being dragged.
|[Voice-over.] What are you doing? Where are you taking me? [He is thrown into a chair in an interrogation room.] I didn't do anything wrong!
|[Emerges from the corner of the room; annoyed.] Come on, Zuko. We all know that's a lie.
|[Shocked.] Mai!
|Cut to shot of the entire cell, Zuko still sitting on the floor with Mai standing over him. The cell door is open, with at least one guard patrolling it from outside.
Cut to the full moon. The shot changes to show Katara and Aang alone at the edge of the temple.
|Katara, did you really mean what you said?
|Where? What are you talking about?
|During training, when you said that this isn't about us. That nothing is about us.
|I didn't say that.
|But it's true, isn't it? We kissed at the Invasion, and I thought we were gonna be together. But we're not.
|Aang, I don't know.
|Why don't you know?
|Because, we're in the middle of a war, and, we have other things to worry about. This isn't the right time.
|Well, when is the right time?
|Aang, I'm sorry, but right now I'm just a little confused.
|Aang tries to kiss Katara.
|I just said I was confused! I'm going inside. [Leaves.]
|Ugh, I'm such an idiot! [Puts down his head on the floor.]
|Cut to view of prison hold then to an upside-down shot of the warden sliding open another cell door and entering the room.
|How is he?
|Cut to right-side up shot of the two guards holding Chit Sang upside-down in the chair. Chit Sang's face is red and strained.
|Male guard #2
|I think he's ready to talk.
|They toss chair the chair forward toward the warden back to a normal position. Chit Sang inhales deeply a few times, his face slowly returning to normal color, sweat dripping down his face.
|[Approaches him from behind.] Have you had enough time to think about what I asked?
|Chit Sang
|[Eager.] And?
|Chit Sang
|You're right. There was another person involved in the escape plan.
|[Places his hand on Chit Sang's shoulder.] Who?
|Chit Sang
|It's a guy who's disguised like a prison guard. Only he's not a prison guard. He's the mastermind. He came up with the plan.
|The warden smiles slyly, pats Chit Sang on the head, and exits. The camera focuses on Chit Sang, who maintains a cold-hard expression. The scene changes to the prison cell where Zuko sits in the chair slumped over and Mai stands over him.
|How did you know I was here?
|Because I know you so well.
|But, how-
|The warden's my uncle, you idiot. [Zuko sighs; Mai shows him a letter.] The truth is, I guess I don't know you. All I get is a letter? You could have least looked me in the eye when you ripped out my heart.
|I didn't mean to -
|You didn't mean to? [Reading the letter.] "Dear Mai, I'm sorry you that you have to find out this way, but I'm leaving."
|Stop! This isn't about you. This is about the Fire Nation!
|[Sarcastically.] Thanks Zuko, that makes me feel all better. [Throws the letter at him.]
|[Stands up.] Mai, I never wanted to hurt you. But I have to do this to save my country.
|Save it? You're betraying your country!
|That's not how I see it.
|Mai looks away from him and folds her arms. Cut to Suki's cell, where she is practicing her fighting moves. Sokka enters.
|Sokka, what's going on?
|[Places his hand on her shoulder.] I don't have much time. If I'm seen with you the guards might think something's up. [Walks over to the door and peers outside.] I just talked to my dad.
|That's great.
|Yeah, and we're escaping today, on the gondola.
|My dad and I came up with the plan together. We're gonna commandeer the gondola [Puts both hands on her shoulders.] and we're gonna take a hostage with us so they won't cut the lines.
|[Takes his hands off her shoulders.] We'll never make it onto the gondola. There's too many guards.
|My dad already thought of that. He said we'll need a distraction. That's why we're gonna start a prison riot.
|Okay, let's say by some miracle this all works and we make it on the gondola. The warden will still just cut the lines, even if we have a captive.
|Not if the warden is the captive. [Nearby noise occurs. Moves to look outside.] I have to go. [Suki hugs him.] I'll find you before we start the riot. [Cut to outside the cell, where he slides out of the cell.]
|Male guard
|Hey, you, the warden wants to see you!
|Male guard
|I don't know, I didn't ask.
|Maybe I could schedule another time with him? How's tomorrow? [Walks off-screen.]
|Male guard
|He wants to see you... now. [Sokka is escorted by two guards.]
|Scene moves to the yard with a line-up of guards, the warden, and Chit Sang present.
|Put him in the line-up.
|They throw Sokka in the line-up with a bunch of other guards, now with no helmet like the rest of them. He tries hiding behind a lowly guard, but the guard pushes him away.
|One of you is an impostor who thought he could fool me. [Chit Sang steps forward.] But now, that person is going to be in a lot of trouble. Who is it?
|Sokka's teeth start chattering, clearly nervous among the other calm guards. The camera stays on Sokka, who closes his eyes.
|Chit Sang
|[Off-screen.] That's him, warden. He's the impostor! [The camera shifts to Chit Sang, who is pointing at the bully guard.]
|Bully guard
|Cut to the warden, who smiles evilly and walks away.
|Bully guard
|[Grabs Chit Sang by the shirt.] I am not! [Chit Sang just raises his hands nonchalantly in defense.] He's lying! [Another guard grabs him.] He's a liar!
|The guard is taken away. Chit Sang turns and smiles slyly at Sokka, who looks on and breathes a sigh of relief.
Cut to a window. The camera pans down to the bully guard in an interrogation room surrounded by two guards. The warden stands in front of and away Chit Sang, holding his hands behind his back.
|Bully guard
|I'm telling you... it wasn't me!
|Save your breath! I know you were working together. [Turns around and moves in closer to the guard.] You threw Chit Sang in the very cooler they used to escape. It was all part of your plan.
|Bully guard
|That was just a coincidence!
|The door opens, someone enters.
|Male guard #3
|Sir, there's someone to see you.
|[Angrily.] Who told you to interrupt me?
|The warden turns angrily toward the door, but looks shocked and bows upon seeing who it is. Cut to show Azula standing at the door with Ty Lee behind her. All of the guards bow to her as well.
|I did.
|[Cut closer to Azula.] Princess Azula. [Azula and Ty Lee walk in.] I... It is an honor to welcome you to the Fire Nation's most exemplary prison. [Stands up.] I didn't realize you were coming.
|[Walks in and notices the guard sitting in the chair.] Who is this?
|[Cut to the bully guard, who looks away.] He's a guard who was involved in a recent and feeble escape attempt.
|Bully guard
|[Desperately.] It wasn't me!
|[Angrily.] Quiet, you!
|[Crossing her arms.] You're wasting your time. That's not one of them. [Turns and starts to leave.]
|The warden turns and looking surprised, and confused, looks from Azula to the guard, and then back to Azula again.
|How do you know?
|[Smiles sinisterly.] Because I'm a people person. [Exits.]
|In the hall, Sokka approaches a guard in charge of the cell doors.
|Hey, I just got orders. Let the prisoners out into the yard.
|Door guard
|But we're in the middle of a lockdown.
|Oh, okay, I'll just go tell the warden you said that. [Walks off-screen; the guard raises his mask and looks at him speechless.] I'm sure he'll be glad to hear about you undermining his authority. [Walks back on-screen, lifting his helmet mask.] What's your name again?
|Door guard
|[Starts to sweat; horrified.] Wait! Don't tell the warden. I'm just a little confused.
|Hey, I'm confused too, but the wardens in a bad mood, and... irrational, so if you ask me, it's best not to question it, and just do what he says. [Places his arm around the guard's shoulder.]
|Door guard
|Yeah... you're right. We're letting them out!
|The guard opens all the doors by pulling the levers. The prisoners head for the yard. The prisoners mingle in the yard, where Sokka, Suki, and Hakoda meet.
|This is it! We have to start a riot.
|Okay. But how do we do that?
|I'll show you. [Shoves a prisoner.]
|Tough prisoner
|Hey! What'd you do that for? That hurt my feelings.
|Aren't you mad at me?
|Tough prisoner
|Uh, well, normally I would be, but I've been learning to control my anger.
|This isn't working.
|Suddenly, Chit Sang appears behind Sokka and puts his hand on Sokka's shoulder.
|Chit Sang
|Hey you! You're lucky I didn't rat you out, [Smiles.] but my generosity comes with a price. I know you're planning another escape attempt, and I want in.
|[Gets an idea.] Actually, we're trying to escape right now, but we need a riot. [Points to him.] You wouldn't happen to know how to start one, would you?
|Chit Sang
|A prison riot? Please. [Grabs a prisoner and lifts him in the air, bouncing him up and down.] Hey! [All the prisoners look at him.] Riot!
|The riot begins. Several blasts of fire go off.
|Tough prisoner
|Forget about controlling my anger... let's riot! [He is taken down by another prisoner. The riot is in full swing.]
|Who let these prisoners into the yard? [Cut to the Warden on a balcony.] This is supposed to be a lockdown!
|The door guard looks at the warden, horrified. He puts his back against the wall and sneaks away. The camera cuts back to Zuko and Mai.
|Male guard
|Ma'am, there's a riot going on! I'm here to protect you!
|I don't need any protection.
|[Gives a slight chuckle; proudly.] Believe me, she doesn't.
|Male guard
|I'm sorry, but I'm under direct orders from your uncle to make sure nothing happens. [Zuko gives a serious look.]
|Zuko blasts fire at the guard and starts to run toward the door. The guard jumps in front of Mai to shield her.
|Get off of me! [She throws the guard away from her and chases Zuko.]
|Zuko exits and closes the door, trapping Mai and the guard in the room. He looks at Mai through the slit in the door with regret before running off. Back in the yard, he reaches everyone else and slams down another guard as the riot continues.
|Zuko! Good, we're all here. Now all we need to do is grab the warden, and get to the gondolas!
|And how do we do that?
|I'm not sure.
|[Groans.] I thought you thought this through!
|I thought you told me it's okay not to think everything through!
|Maybe not everything, but this is kind of important! [Rubs his forehead.]
|Chit Sang
|Hey, uh, fellas. I think your girlfriend's taking care of it.
|Sokka peeks out and looks amazed as he sees Suki hop up on the heads of the rioters, then jump and flip onto the tower. She easily defeats the first guard with a few quick jabs. Two more guards arrive. She ducks a fire blast and sweeps the first one and then dodges the second one's fire blast and continues to climb the tower. She makes it up to the top and defeats the final guard with a sliding kick. She then grabs the warden by the fist.
|You wouldn't dare.
|[Ties his hands together and uses his headband as a gag.] Sorry, warden. You're my prisoner now. [Slams the warden against the wall; the rest of the escapees arrive.] We've got the warden! Now let's get out of here!
|Everyone else is out of breath.
|That's some girl.
|[Proudly.] Tell me about it.
|Cut to the roof as they all make the run to the gondola.
|We're almost there!
|They are stopped by guards who launch two fire blasts at them. Zuko shoves Sokka out of the way and blocks the two fire blasts. More guards appear to help.
|Back off! We've got the warden! [The guards see the warden on Chit Sang's shoulder, bound and gagged, and clear the way.] Let's go!
|They continue along their path, cautiously watching the guards so they do not try any sudden moves. They arrive at the gondola. Suki opens the door.
|Everyone in!
|Zuko starts the gondola and kicks the handle a few times attempting to break it. He sees the guards rushing toward him and kicks the handle again and breaks it. He jumps toward the gondola while dodging guards fire blasts. Sokka grabs Zuko's hand and helps him into the gondola.
|What are you doing?
|I'm making it so they can't stop us.
|Way to think ahead.
|We're on our way!
|Wait! Who's that?
|Azula and Ty Lee stand at the bottom of the gondola station. All the guards bow down.
|That's a problem. It's my sister and her friend.
|Ty Lee leaps up and climbs the line. Azula takes a pair of handcuffs from a guard. After elevating herself to the line with a fire blast, she uses the cuffs to attach herself to the line, and blasts up it.
|[Determined.] This is a rematch I've been waiting for.
|Me too.
|Sokka, Suki, and Zuko climb to the top of the gondola to meet Azula and Ty Lee. Azula blasts fire, but Zuko blocks it. Ty Lee and Suki trade blows at one another, but neither can land. Ty Lee is forced to the edge but jumps into the gondola and comes out the other side, continuing her attacks. Zuko continues to wipe out Azula's fire blasts. Sokka draws her back to the edge with his sword. Zuko goes in for a finish, but Azula dodges Zuko's blast and stays on the gondola. She then counters with a blast that goes wide. Meanwhile, the warden attempts to free himself while the other prisoners are distracted. A male guard watches from a telescope.
|Male guard
|There's the warden! I see him!
|[Frees himself and runs to look out of the gondola.] Cut the line! [Chit Sang notices and grabs the warden.]
|Male guard
|He wants us to cut the line.
|Male guard #2
|But if we cut the line, there's no way he'll survive!
|Male guard #3
|[Puts down his telescope.] He knows that.
|The guards put a stop to the gondola by jabbing a sword at the cable wheel. The force sends Sokka to the edge of the gondola, but Zuko pulls him in at the last moment. Ty Lee jumps up to the top of the wire to see what is happening.
|Ty Lee
|They're about to cut the line!
|The guards work to cut the line. Azula notices another gondola approaching on the other wire, heading inbound.
|[Smirks.] Then it's time to leave. [Blasts herself up.] Goodbye, Zuko. [Reaches the other gondola.]
|Ty Lee backflips to the other gondola. When she reaches it, she looks back at Sokka, Suki, and Zuko with concern. The other three jump back into the gondola.
|They're cutting the line! The gondola's about to go!
|I hope this thing floats.
|Pan down to the Boiling Lake. As the guards continue to sawing the line, they are suddenly pinned to a metal wall by stilettos.
|Male guard
|What are you doing?
|The camera cuts to show Mai standing near the line.
|Saving the jerk who dumped me.
|Other guards try to attack Mai, but she pins them all down. She releases the block on the line, allowing the gondola to continue in motion. Everyone looks back to see what happened.
|Who's that?
|Mai continues to fight off guards and turns her head to see the others.
|[Shocked.] It's Mai!
|[Angrily.] What is she doing?
|Ty Lee shrugs as they watch her continue to fight off guards. The gondola makes it to the top of the hill. Everyone leaves. Chit Sang holds the warden and throws him back in when Hakoda points at it.
|Sorry, warden. Your record is officially broken. [The warden struggles against his bindings.]
|Cut to the others escaping over the rim of the volcano.
|Well, we made it out. Now what?
|Sokka turns and notices Zuko standing still.
|Zuko, what are you doing?
|My sister was on that island.
|Yeah, and she's probably right behind us, so let's not stop!
|What I mean is she must have come here somehow. [Walks up to a large hill by the sea.] There! [Pan down to a large airship.] That's our way out of here!
|Back at the prison. Mai is detained by two guards. Ty Lee stands on Azula's side, looking terrified and concerned at the two.
|Leave us alone. [The guards give the Fire Nation salute and exit.] I never expected this from you. [Cut briefly to a worried Ty Lee, then to Azula.] The thing I don't understand is "Why?". Why would you do it? You know the consequences.
|I guess you just don't know people as well as you think you do. You miscalculated. I love Zuko more than I fear you.
|[Enraged.] No, you miscalculated! You should have feared me more!
|Azula prepares to firebend, and Mai pulls out one of her stilettos. But just as Azula is about to shoot Mai, Ty Lee blocks Azula's chi, causing Azula to fall to the ground, and leaving Mai shocked.
|Ty Lee
|[Runs to Mai, shaking her.] Come on! Let's get out of here!
|Mai and Ty Lee are quickly surrounded by guards and captured.
|[Still on the ground; angrily.] You're both fools! [She's helped up by two guards.]
|Male guard
|What shall we do with them, princess?
|Put them somewhere I'll never have to see their faces again, and let them rot!
|Nightfall, Western Air Temple. The ship is returned. Zuko and Sokka exit, standing in front of Toph, Aang, and Katara.
|What are you doing in this thing? What happened to the war balloon?
|It kind of got destroyed.
|Sounds like a crazy fishing trip.
|Did you at least get some good meat?
|I did. The best meat of all. The meat of friendship and fatherhood.
|Suki, Hakoda, and Chit Sang exit.
|Chit Sang
|[Waving.] I'm new. What's up, everybody?
|[Tearing up; overjoyed.] Dad? [Runs to him.]
|Hi, Katara. [They embrace.]
|How are you here? What is going on? Where did you go?
|We kind of went to a Fire Nation prison.
|Hakoda pulls Sokka into the embrace. The camera pans away from the scene.
|Seriously? You guys didn't find any meat?
|Cut to everyone around the campfire later that night. Zuko walks out towards the edge of the cliff. Aang notices him and follows.
|Hey Aang.
|What are doing out here? It gets pretty windy out here at night. That's part of what made this pace so great, if you had a glider.
|I was just thinking about the old days. A lot is different from when we first met. You were just a goofy kid who didn't want to be the hero.
|And you were a moody prince who wanted his honour back.
|[Smiling.] You were right after all.
|About what?
|About what Katara needed. When it came down to finding the man who killed her mother. It turned out violence wasn't the answer.
|It never is.
|Then I have a question for you. [Turns to look at him.] What are you gonna do when you face my father?
|Camera focuses on Aang, who now has a worried expression on his face. Fades to credits.