Disclaimer: I Do Not Own Avatar

Author's Note: It is with great happiness and sadness that I dedicate this final chapter to all of my loyal readers. Here's to you guys – especially all of those who've been with me from the very beginning when a newbie named AlmF submitted the first chapter of his first story, Avatar Book 4: Air one November night. It's been a great year guys. And it'll be a great time for a while to come! Thank you for your support and reviews!

But enough talk – let the end begin!

***

My grandmother used to tell me stories about the old days…

***

A time of peace when the Avatar kept balance between the Water Tribes, Earth Kingdom, Fire Nation, and Air Nomads…

***

But that all changed when the Fire Nation attacked…

***

Only the Avatar mastered all four elements…

***

Only he could stop the ruthless Firebenders…

***

But when the world needed him most, he vanished…

***

Some people believe that the Avatar was never reborn into the Air Nomads and that the cycle is broken…

***

But I haven't lost hope…

***

I still believe that the Avatar will return to save the world…

***

Oni Internment Camp – Fire Nation – Night

The Warden was absolutely stunned. "Tell me again – how did hundreds of prisoners break past your guards, fight through the camp and enter into the mines?!"

The Oni underling gulped. "We … we were taken by surprise. We didn't know they could fight! We spent hours breaking their wills, forcing them to mine for ore! Who knew that they would still have a spark of fight left in them?"

"Well what are you going to do about it," the Warden growled.

"We … we've dispersed our forces throughout the camp. We'll try to hedge them in."

"That won't be enough," another Oni interrupted. He looked the Warden clearly in the eye. "Those humans aren't like mindless animals. Their wills can't be broken so easily. They have a strong survival instinct – even the little ones! They'll tear through your guards like wet tissue, and we'll be impotent to stop them from escaping!"

Another low ranking guard came bursting into the room. "Sir, the humans have routed our men. They're escaping through the mines!"

The other Oni grinned. "Told you so."

"What do we do," the guard asked.

The Warden furrowed his brow. "If those humans are so desperate to get to the mines, I say let them!"

All three of the other Oni were shocked. "Sir?!"

A diabolical grin flitted across the Warden's face. "Release the aqueducts."

"Sir, that would flood the mines!"

"Exactly.! We'll drown those humans like filthy rats!"

"But," one of the guards protested. "We've sent our own men into the mines after them. They'll be killed along with the humans."

"It's a sacrifice I'm willing to make!"

"You can't possibly – those men are loyal to you!"

"They're failures! They couldn't stop those human animals. They deserve to die along with them!"

The guard was shocked. "But, they're Oni! They're our own people!"

The Warden's eyes shone with malice and with a sudden jolt he pressed the blade of his knife into the dissident guard's belly. The guard was dead before he even hit the ground. The Warden sheathed his blade and then turned to the rest of the Oni in the command center.

"Now listen up! There are only two kinds of people – the weak and the strong! It is the duty of the weak to die off to make room for the strong! Those Oni failed to stop those humans – so they deserve to die like them! Even the most perfect plants need to have its hedges pruned from time to time!"

He turned to storm out of the room as the guards moved to carry out their superior's orders.

"Flood the mines!"

***

Hundreds of prisoners swarmed in droves into the large mine shafts. Loi and Mai ushered them into the circular entrance. "Hurry! We don't have a moment to spare!" He looked up to see dozens of armed Oni marching on them. He swore under his breath.

The Oni stopped where they were standing and aimed their crossbows. Blast it all! Here they were at the mines, and they were going to die before they even had a chance to get in!

Suddenly, Longshot was there. He raised his bow to eye level, squinted and fired several arrows at once. Several Oni dropped where they stood, arrows sticking out of their chests. The rest of the Oni scattered.

"Nice shot," Loi complimented. Longshot merely nodded and pointed to the mines. Longshot had bought just enough time for the remaining prisoners to enter the entrance to the mines.

They had to hurry.

They had been able to stall the pursuing Oni, but not for long. Already they were reassembling themselves.

Nodding, Loi and Longshot darted into the mines after them.

***

Azula was at the forefront of the escapees, having pretty much taken on the role of leader. Smellerbee jogged alongside her.

"How long do you think these mines go on for," she asked the Princess.

"Miles," Azula responded grimly. "It's going to be a long trek."

Smellerbee lowered her voice to a whisper. "Do you think we'll make it through?"

"If the Oni stay off our backs – and I seriously doubt they will. But we have to try anyway!" She spared a furtive glance behind her to see Loi, Mai and Longshot bringing up the rear of prisoners. If the Oni popped their ugly heads up again, she hoped those three would be able to hold them off.

Behind them, the sounds of marching began to echo off the cavern walls. Azula gulped as she looked at her young compatriot. "Looks like they aren't going to stay off our backs!"

The group picked up the pace, Longshot darting backwards, firing spare arrows. Mai hurled some makeshift shurikans and Loi sprayed the advancing enemy with some pockets of Firebending. They did anything they could to slow the Oni down.

But now that had become the least of their worries.

Azula noticed that her shoes were becoming soaked and she glanced down at her feet.

Water!

The cavern floor was filling with water – already it was up to their ankles. Everyone was panicked.

The water was rising!

The Oni also seemed to notice, and they seemed horrified and began chattering among themselves.

"They've released the aqueducts!"

"By why would the Warden do that?! Doesn't he realize we're down here too?!"

"Do you think he cares?!"

Azula had overheard the whole conversation.

The Warden had decided to unleash the prison's aqueducts to flood the mines and drown them all!

Now they were all trapped – prisoners and Oni alike!

Trapped with miles ahead of them and swiftly rising water.

There was no escape now!

***

The Oni Fleet – Capital Ship – Night

Iroh rolled out of the way, deflecting an attack by a cleaver-like sword of an attacking Oni troop. He punched his fist forward and a spiral of flame sprouted from his knuckles, blasting the attacker back.

The battle was not going well. The Sun Tzu and Iroh's troops initially had the upper hand, fighting through all the enemy troops onboard the capital ship. But now, reinforcements had arrived from nearby vessels.

Fighting off troops from one ship was bad enough.

Fighting a whole fleet's worth of troops was a suicide mission.

But still, they couldn't give up hope.

He winced as a Sun Tzu was tossed aside like a doll.

His men weren't going to go down fighting.

Huu, using his Swampbending, transformed himself into a large monster made from seaweed. He tossed Oni about, and it seemed as if there was a brief shift in the battle's momentum.

Then the ballista armaments aimed and fired.

Huu was pelted with flaming rocks, and he was forced to back off.

Iroh glanced at the island.

Aang!

He was still their last hope.

If he could defeat the Anti-Avatar, then they would make it through this.

A sudden attack from his side pulled him from his ruminations as he threw himself back into combat.

***

Island – Castle – Night

A battle weary Katara shot through the halls of this ancient, evil castle. The memory of her recent battle was still fresh in her head.

Her battle with her mother had been the most difficult – physically, but more so emotionally. The two were absolute equals, but Katara had prevailed in the end. Eena had demanded she finish her off.

Katara couldn't do that.

So she left her mother, frozen in a block of ice. She had left her with the betrothal necklace that her father had made for her years ago. Katara hoped that it would help her mother remember who she once was.

But she couldn't worry about that now.

She had to get to Aang. She wouldn't let him face Kahn alone any longer.

And then she stopped short in the middle of a hallway. The floor beneath her was rumbling as though an unstoppable force was burrowing underneath.

Oh, what now?

Something sprang from up from the floor and Katara gave a squeal and fell backwards on her rear.

"Haha, that was priceless, Sugar Queen."

"Toph!"

"In the flesh!"

Dusting herself off, Katara rose to her feet and embraced her friend. "Okay, okay," Toph said pushing the older girl away. "Don't get all mushy on me!"

"Where are the others," Katara asked.

"I told them to go on ahead of me! I had some unfinished business with Concreto…" She trailed off, and she tried to mask the hint of sorrow in her voice. "What about you? What happened with your mother?"

"I uh … I won. She's frozen in a block of ice in the throne room." She began moving again and Toph ran after her to keep up. "We have to get to Aang – we have to save him from Kahn!"

"What about the others," Toph asked. "If we're gonna go up against Kahn, we're going to need their help!"

Katara nodded. "Can you feel where they are?"

"Hold on." Toph kneeled forward and placed her hand on the floor, stretching out with her senses. "They're inside the castle," she said. "In fact, they're not far from us at all!" She rose up.

"This way!"

***

Aang hovered in the air, his eyes and mouth blazing with white light. A sphere of air surrounded him as all the spiritual energies of the earth filled his being.

Kahn was unimpressed. He shed off his cape and outer clothing, revealing a simple dark, sleeveless shirt, allowing him greater maneuverability. He looked up, a sneer playing on his lips.

"Come on then, little Airbender! Give me everything you've got!"

Aang thrust his palm forward and a wave of earth bolted towards the Anti-Avatar. Kahn leaped out of the way, and countered with a blast of flame. With a wave of his hand, Aang snuffed the flames out with simple Airbending.

Kahn ground his teeth as he stared at the Avatar's glowing eyes.

"This ends here, Kahn! I won't allow you to hurt the ones I care about ever again!"

The Anti-Avatar stretched out his arms. "Well then finish me, Avatar! Here I am! I won't try to defend myself! Take my life and end this! Or are you too weak?!"

Aang cocked his head. "I can't kill you …"

"I knew you didn't have it in you! Because the only way you'll ever end this is to take my life!"

"I am the Avatar! I'll find a way to end this without bloodshed!"

ZAAAP!!!

Kahn fired a straight bolt of lighting towards Aang. The bald monk allowed the lightning to flow up into his body, and he prepared to redirect it. For a moment, he considered redirecting right back at its source. It would be quick and efficient. And it would end this once and for all. Aang suspected that Kahn didn't know how to redirect lightning…

But no! He wasn't a murderer. That was what differentiated between the Avatar and Anti-Avatar. He pointed his fingers off to the side and the lighting shot out, discharging harmlessly into the ground.

Kahn folded his arms. "Look at you. You're in the Avatar State, you have all the power of the universe at your disposal, and yet you still can't finish me!"

Aang floated overhead, taking in the Anti-Avatar's words.

"Kill me Avatar! There is no other way!"

"No!"

Kahn laughed. "Well, I guess since you're too weak to stop me, I'll just have to strike at Katara. Remember, I bonded her to me. I can drain all her life force through our bond."

"Leave her out of this!"

The Anti-Avatar was still laughing. "Kill me! Or I'll kill Katara through our bond!"

Now the young Avatar was facing a severe dilemma. Either go against everything he was ever taught – or allow his wife to face certain death. A bead of sweat trickled down his forehead.

"Here's your decision. You're going to have to decide whose life you value more - my life or Katara's. You have until the count of ten – then Katara dies!" He began counting. "One!"

Aang was trembling in midair.

"Two!"

More sweat.

"Three!"

Katara's face still flashed in front of his eyes. What should he do? The Anti-Avatar was still counting, jumping higher every second.

"Six!"

"Seven!"

"Eight!"

What is he waiting for, Kahn thought. Surely he values his wife's life more than his own ethical beliefs?

"Nine!"

Why is he not doing anything? Oh well. I'll enjoy killing off his wife.

"Te- oomph!"

The Anti-Avatar had barely finished counting before he was head butted by the Avatar. Kahn bounced along the ground and rolled to his feet. Aang was on him in an instant. He twirled his arms and Kahn was blown back several yards with a gust of wind.

Kahn retaliated with a blast of fire.

Aang withdrew some water from his satchel and doused the attack.

He then charged Kahn again, sidelining him into the ground. Kahn staggered around. He felt something trickling from his lip.

Blood.

The Avatar had actually caused him to bleed.

His eyes widened as Aang blasted him with more wind. And then Kahn was forced to his knees. Aang manipulated the air pressure, forcing him down on all fours. Then the Anti-Avatar's hands and feet were encased in rock.

Kahn looked up, and smiled as Aang landed and began advancing on him. "So you've finally become man enough to kill me, eh?"

Aang stopped before his enemy and looked down at him, fury blazing on his face. "No. I'm man enough to not finish you."

Aang placed his fingers on Kahn's forehead and neckline. "I'm going to take away your bending. You won't be able to hurt anyone ever again!"

And the Avatar was suddenly swathed in blue light, while the Anti-Avatar flashed a blood red light. A giant beam of phosphorescence ascended into the night sky.

***

Castle – Night

"Katara! You're safe!" Hakoda embraced his daughter warmly.

"Yea, thanks for all the concern on my part," Toph rolled her eyes.

"Aaaw, we're glad you're safe too, Toph," Sokka replied, condescendingly patting her on the head. She elbowed him in the ribs.

A solemn look suddenly came over Hakoda's face. "What about your mother? Did you … you know?"

Katara seemed affronted. "Of course not! Mom's a little … incapacitated at the moment." Hakoda raised his eyebrows.

"But that's not important right now," Katara continued. "We all have to get to Aang! He could be in serious trouble right now!"

"Relax," Hakoda replied. "We're not going to let Aang face Kahn alone."

"That's right," Toph replied. "When I get my hands on him …" She pounded her hand into her fist for emphasis.

"We'll all fight together," Suki exclaimed. "As Team Avatar!"

Zuko smiled silently and nodded in agreement.

Someone chuckling from nearby startled them. "You can't win…"

Everyone spun around to see Guandao, casually leaning against a wall. "The Avatar is as good as dead. The only way he could have won this duel is by killing the Anti-Avatar. But Aang won't – just as he wouldn't kill Ozai or me! That is why he's going to lose!"

Katara was fuming. "Don't listen to him!" She motioned for the rest to follow. "Come on, guys! We're going to help Aang!"

"Hey, don't let me stop you," Guandao called after them. "But it'll be your funeral! Just remember when you die, whose fault it is! When you die, just remember that it was Aang who wouldn't kill the Anti-Avatar!"

"That's it!"

Katara spun around and slammed the monk up against a wall. For a brief instant, Katara's fieriness reminded him of someone he once knew…

The young woman was seething, and her eyes practically shot flames out. "Do you know … all you keep doing is running your mouth! I haven't seen you do anything to stop Kahn! So don't you dare talk about Aang!"

"I haven't done anything to stop Kahn?! I tried to prepare this world to combat him! I tried to mobilize the world under one banner, to prepare its armies for this threat! I tried to harness the powers of Apollyon to counter him! So don't you dare tell me that I didn't do anything!"

"You caused so much war and bloodshed," Katara hissed. "You killed lots of good people! You tried to kill all of us and Aang! How do you justify that?!"

"I was trying to save the world!"

"By conquering it?! By tearing it apart through war?! By killing thousands of innocent people?! You're sick. And a coward."

Guandao was taken aback. "Coward?!"

"You claim you want to save the world from Kahn, but you won't help Aang fight him!"

The monk opened his mouth to respond, but no words came out. Katara released her grip on him and stormed off with the rest of Team Avatar.

Guandao slid down onto the floor, staring at Katara's retreating form. "You can't win," he shouted after her.

She continued on, ignoring him.

"You can't win…"

Perhaps she was right. Perhaps he was a coward. They were all going off to face the Anti-Avatar, and here he was, slumped on the ground like a groveling, fearful animal. That girl – she was so … fiery, so bold.

And his eyes widened.

Now he remembered who Katara reminded him of.

"Ana," he moaned pitifully.

***

"There's … there's so much lava…"

Everyone stood at the edge of the castle, as huge pools of lava flowed around it. In a few moments, the lava would have melted the base of the structure, and it would collapse.

At the same time, this new sea of lava had effectively cut them off from Aang.

"Look," Sokka pointed.

Everyone followed his finger and gasped when they saw a huge towering beam of light. Hakoda shielded his eyes. "What's that?"

"Energybending," Katara cried out.

Sokka eyes darted over to her. "Who's doing it? Aang or Kahn?"

"It feels like … it's like when Aang did it to Fire Lord Ozai," Suki stated.

"So … Aang's Energybending Kahn," Zuko said. "So … is that it then? If Aang is successful … does that mean he wins?"

"I think so," Sokka answered. "If Aang successfully takes away Kahn's bending, then that's it! It's curtains for the Anti-Avatar!" He couldn't contain his excitement.

Katara shook her head. "Nothing's that simple when it comes to Kahn."

"So you're saying … Aang might lose," Toph asked, aghast.

"What I'm saying is, we shouldn't underestimate the Anti-Avatar. Knowing him, he probably has one more trick up his sleeve. We're not done here yet!"

"We have to get to where Aang is then," Zuko said.

"But how? We're surrounded by lava!" Suki spread her arms out for emphasis.

Sokka stood there, contemplating for a moment. He finally snapped his fingers. "I've got it!" Everyone turned to look at him, eager to hear his plan. "Lava is basically superheated rock, correct?"

Everyone shrugged.

"I dunno…"

"I guess…"

"Exactly," he continued on. "When lava cools, it hardens! Then we could just walk across!"

"Yea, but lava takes a long time to cool, numnuts," Toph objected sardonically.

Sokka placed his hands on his hips. "Well then, aren't we lucky that we're graced with two exceptionally skilled benders, are we not?"

"What are you talking about?!"

"You and Zuko!" He turned to the Fire Lord. "Do you think you can cool down this lava?"

Zuko's eyes widened. "I don't know… It's possible… I don't think I can cool it all down!"

"That's fine! We just need a cool, hardened path to take us directly to Aang!"

The Fire Lord nodded, grinning slightly. "Alright, I'll give it a go!"

Sokka then turned his attention over to the blind girl next to him. "Okay Toph, I need you to help Zuko harden some of that lava!"

Toph cracked her knuckles loudly, causing the group to flinch. "It would be my pleasure!" She rooted her stance next to Zuko, who had his eyes closed and was breathing deeply.

Sokka turned to his father, Hakoda. "Dad … I need you to get to the other side of this island – to the beachhead. You'll find Haru and Appa there. Appa's been wounded … I need you to look after the two of them."

Hakoda protested. "But … I want to fight!"

"Please, dad! Help Appa!"

Hakoda nodded and embraced both his children. "Be careful," he warned.

"We will," they both said.

And with that, Hakoda turned and headed in the opposite direction.

As Zuko and Toph worked, Sokka looked ahead at the giant beam of light.

"Look out, Kahn. Here we come!"

***

I'm doing it, Aang thought to himself. I'm actually doing it!

His body shimmered with bright blue light, and that blue glow was spreading, crawling up Kahn's body. The Anti-Avatar resisted with every fiber of his being, struggling in his earthen bindings.

It was no use. Aang had bound him good and tight. There was no getting away.

As Aang watched the blue light creep up Kahn's neck and face, he couldn't help but remember everything that had led up to this moment.

He remembered the day that Katara and Sokka had found him in the iceberg. That was the beginning of his story. And now here he was, at the consummation of it all. The Fire Nation was no longer a ruthless tyranny waging relentless war against all other cultures, and now the Anti-Avatar would no longer be able to terrorize anyone ever again.

It was like a dream.

Aang relished the thought of life after this. He could finally settle down with his beloved wife and raise his family in peace.

Kahn's entire face was almost entirely covered in blue light. Only his eye remained untouched. And behind that eye was an intense madness and evil.

And that eye was covered up as well.

Aang breathed in deeply as he concentrated, bending the energy in the Anti-Avatar's body.

***

BOOM!!!

***

With a loud noise, Kahn had used Earthbending to break free of the Avatar's bindings. In a sudden move, he brought his hands up to Aang's neck and forehead and began concentrating.

Recovering from his momentary shock, Aang readjusted the intake of energy and concentrated his hardest on removing Kahn's bending.

Kahn wasn't going to back down.

It had now become an all out battle of wills.

The question was, whose will was stronger?

The Avatar's, or the Anti-Avatar's?

The blue light began to retreat from Kahn's form, and red light began crawling up Aang's body.

***

In a matter of moments, Zuko and Toph had been able to cool down the molten rock and harden enough of it so that it formed a straight path that they could cross to reach Aang.

Team Avatar rushed across the hardened rock, with streams of lava on both sides. Sokka almost fell in numerous times.

Katara suddenly stopped short, and Toph walked straight into her. "What's your problem," she moaned.

Katara was gaping ahead, her mouth open. "Something's wrong…"

Everyone looked ahead to see sparks of pure energy blasting in all directions in the distance. "Aang," she whispered under breath.

"We have to move!"

They picked up the pace as they rushed to help their friend.

***

What's happening to me, Aang thought. Kahn was now overpowering Aang, as the young monk continued to glow red. Kahn's energy was overpowering the boy, and Aang felt a strange sensation take over him. It wasn't as though he was having his bending taken away.

It was much worse.

Aang felt as though Kahn's energy was taking over him.

The Anti-Avatar, meanwhile, was laughing. "You have no idea how long I've been waiting for this," he cackled.

Waiting for what?

Only Aang's eye was visible as Kahn's energy continued to overshadow him. Kahn continued talking. "You and I will be united once again. The two halves will finally become whole!"

"What … what are … you talking about," Aang gasped as he felt his form disappearing.

"Our spirits used to be one – until the Avatar Spirit purified itself by removing the taint. I'm going to reverse that! I intend to merge us back together! I will have control over the Avatar State – and I will be truly invincible!"

Aang winced as he struggled to hold back Kahn's Energybending. "No … I won't let you …"

"It's too late for that! There's nothing you can do – I can't be stopped now! But don't be upset – you're about to become a part of something greater than you can even imagine!"

And Aang cried out as darkness began to creep into his vision…

***

When Team Avatar arrived at the battle scene, they were horrified to see Kahn's spirit overwhelming Aang's.

"We have to stop him," Katara shouted. She and Zuko launched themselves into an attack, Katara striking out with a water whip and the Fire Lord with a blast of flame. Their attacks hit straight on – and did effectively nothing. They harmlessly bounced off of Kahn's glowing form.

Suddenly, Kahn and Aang were surrounded in an intense bright light. The light grew more and more brilliant. Team Avatar had to shield their eyes. The Avatar and the Anti-Avatar were no longer visible anymore.

"What's happening," Sokka asked as they were buffeted by a powerful gale. They shielded themselves from flying debris.

An electric charge rose into the night sky.

And just as soon as it had started, it had stopped. Everything seemed to settle down as the lights stopped flashing and the wind stopped whipping around them. It seemed silent … almost peaceful.

They dared to look over to where Aang and Kahn had just been standing moments ago. A dust cloud blocked their vision.

"Is Aang okay," Sokka asked.

"I … I can't tell," Katara answered. She squinted her eyes hard to pierce through the dust cloud. Then, the dust cloud dissipated abruptly, no longer obscuring their view.

"There's only one standing," Zuko exclaimed.

"Is it Aang?!" Katara's voice was squeaking.

Everyone waited with baited breath. The figure stood there, his head bowed. Then, he jolted his head upward and let out a relieved sigh.

The gang was shocked.

It was Kahn. Energy bolts lashed out of the Anti-Avatar's form and intense white light bubbled out of his eyes and mouth.

"He's in the Avatar State," Sokka shouted, his voice frantic. "Someone tell me why the Anti-Avatar is in the Avatar State!"

Kahn peered down at his body, which was seething with all the energies of the universe. He had done it. He had successfully fused himself back together with the Avatar. He was now invincible.

Above them, the night sky turned blood red – a hellish nightmare was unfolding around them.

Everyone backed up as the newly empowered Anti-Avatar raised his hand and pointed it towards a large boulder. A bolt of pure energy fired from his palm and struck a nearby rocky formation. The gang gasped as the formation was instantly disintegrated.

Kahn then focused on the group of teenagers standing before him and grinned, seeing their horrified expressions. He opened his mouth and when he spoke, his voice was mixed with thousands of Avatars before him – but their voices were horribly distorted, like the wailing cries of the damned.

"Behold – the ultimate god of destruction is born!"

***

Castle – Night

Eena struggled against the icy shell which had pinned her to the wall. "Stupid girl … when I get out of here, I swear …" She managed to free her pinky, which he wiggled. The ice began to soften, and then melt. She would be free in a matter of moments.

Then she would exact her revenge.

But still…

Why did she feel so different now? What was it about that girl? What was she feeling? It felt a little bit like … guilt.

Eena felt guilty.

But why? It made no sense!

She let out a feral yell, unleashing her frustrations.

It wasn't fair! She was Eena, the most powerful Waterbender in the world! She never felt pity, or remorse – so why now? Could that girl have affected her more than she thought?

She glanced down at that piece of jewelry that girl had looped around her neck. Its design was similar to the tribal marriage necklaces of the Southern Water Tribe. But this one … this one felt so darn familiar!

Eena couldn't figure out why Katara had given her this necklace. Surely she didn't mean to marry her! For what reason then?

The ice continued to thaw. Eena began pulling herself free.

When I get out of here … that girl is going to pay!

The rage boiled up in her, and with a sudden crack, the ice cocoon shattered.

Eena was free.

The Water Witch stood there, panting. With a wave of her hand, she removed the water from her clothes, thoroughly drying them out. She made her way out of the room, murder clearly on her mind and she staggered out into the hallway.

When I get my hands on her…

She stopped as she saw a figure slumped in the hallway before her. The figure was staring straight at the wall, nervously fidgeting.

Eena raised her hand, ready to vent her rage on the first person she saw, but stopped when the man looked up at her.

Those eyes!

A faraway look crossed the old man's face – there was a hint of recognition in his expression.

The man was familiar to Eena as well. She lowered her hand – she would let this one live. She had bigger fish to fry.

So Eena passed the elderly man and went on her way to finish Katara off.

The man sat there, staring at her, unable to believe what he had just seen.

"Ana…"

The monk brought his hand up to his eyes, as memories that he had tried for so long to bury and ignore boiled in his mind.

The young couple sat on a seaside cliff, watching the sunset. The sky was riddled with beautiful hues of red, orange, yellow and purple.

The young woman gently nuzzled her head against the man's shoulder. He smiled warmly and pulled her closer to him, wrapping his arms around her.

"Don't you love sunsets," she asked.

The man shrugged. "You've seen one, you've seen them all."

She looked up to him playfully. "Are you always this cynical?"

He laughed. "No … only when I'm with you. You know how to bring out the worst in people, Ana."

"Shut up!" She playfully punched him on the shoulder. He caught her hand and then playfully wrestled her to the ground. They rolled around on the grass, and then Ana straddled him, pinning him to the ground.

"Remember," she said. "I can outwrestle you anytime I want."

"I let you win. If I were serious I -." Her lips crashing against his silenced him. She then lay down next to him, placing her head against his chest. He wound his arms around her protectively and they lay there in silence for a few moments, just enjoying being with each other.

Finally, Ana broke the silence.

"Guandao?"

"Hmm?"

She looked at him very seriously. "Promise me things will never change."

He chuckled. "All things change, Ana. You can't stop it."

"But not you! Just … just promise me … that no matter what happens, you'll always love me."

"You know that I will, so I really don't -."

"Just promise me! I need the reassurance right now. People are talking. They say that there might be a war!"

A grim look passed over Guandao, but he covered it up quickly. She couldn't know of his secret machinations. If she found out, she wouldn't understand.

But he could reassure her. He could make her this promise.

He looked deep into her blue eyes and said, "I promise. I'll always love you, Ana." He reached up and placed a lily in her hair. "When the last petal falls off that flower, that's when I'll stop loving you."

Ana raised her eyebrows. "So, when the last petal falls, you won't love me anymore?" She pouted, mockingly.

Guandao laughed. "That lily was taken from the Southern Air Temple. Something you should know about Air Nomad gardening." He drew closer to her. "Our flowers are infamous for never losing any petals." He drew her closer to him.

"That flower will last multiple lifetimes."

Guandao stared at the wall, trying desperately to suppress his feelings.

Finally, he rose up and decided to follow that woman.

That couldn't have been Ana!

But then again…

He had to be sure!

***

Things were getting weirder and weirder for Eena. First that girl gives her a necklace, then that bald old guy sitting in a hall. She shook her head.

She needed to get to her master.

As she passed through the grand hall of the castle, she noticed her reflection in a mirror. Sparing a few seconds, Eena glanced at herself. She tried to fix her disheveled hair.

And she fully saw the necklace around her neck. It was calling to her. It was so familiar – as though it were from some faraway dream.

She tentatively brushed her fingers against it.

"Aah!"

She had a sudden spasm, and she brought her hands to her head. Her head was swimming and Eena fell to her knees as she had another one of her flashbacks.

This one was the most clear and precise of them all.

A young Water Tribe woman sat kneeling before a towering brute of a man. The man – a Fire Nation soldier, stood grinning over her.

He spoke to her, and he annunciated every last syllable.

"Where … is … the … Waterbender?"

The woman sighed, a determined look on her face. She had resolved everything in her head as to what she would do. "If I tell you, do you promise to leave the rest of the village alone?"

The Fire Nation troop grinned and nodded.

The Water Tribe woman exhaled slowly. She had to protect her daughter. She had to protect the last Waterbender.

"… It's me," she said finally. "Take me as your prisoner."

The guard laughed, and a look of fear crossed the woman's face.

"I'm afraid I'm not taking prisoners today…"

A ball of flame sprouted from his fist, searing towards the helpless woman. She screamed as she was fully engulfed. Her screaming continued forever…

Eena lay in a fetal position, screaming her head off in terror.

She remembered now! She remembered it all!

She had sacrificed herself … She lied. She told that Fire Nation man that she was the last Waterbender. She did it to protect her daughter – the true Waterbender.

And now Eena knew who Katara was!

Katara was truly that little girl! She hadn't lied at all! Katara had been telling the truth all along!

The Water woman continued sobbing. She had tried to kill her own daughter – her own flesh and blood! What had she become?!

She had become the mindless servant of the Anti-Avatar.

The woman struggled to make up her mind now. What should she do?

"Kill," said a sudden voice in her head. She recognized that voice.

Eena's voice!

"No," she replied. "I can't kill my own daughter!"

"You will do as I say! I'm the one in control here, remember! You serve me!"

"Not anymore!"

"You insolent fool! Just wait 'till the master hears of this! He'll completely destroy any trace of your mind that's left!"

"No! You don't control me anymore! Do you hear?! I'm taking my life back!" She screamed it at the top of her lungs.

More memories came flooding into her mind. Memories of romantic nights with Hakoda, memories of fun with Katara, memories of Sokka trying to be "just like daddy!" She screamed again. "I'm taking my life back!"

She stopped screaming and just stood there, panting.

There was no response from the voice in her head. No response from the personality that called itself Eena. She was finally free from that malevolence.

And she knew what she had to do now.

Kya bolted out of the room, determined to protect her children.

***

"Where's Aang," Katara demanded.

Kahn's glowing eyes regarded her calm indifference. "He's here," he told her, patting his stomach. "I fused myself back with him. At the moment, he's struggling to break free – but it's no use. I have full control over his powers now – control over the Avatar Spirit itself! Do you realize what that means?!"

Everyone stood there silently, shocked expressions on their faces.

"I am now the universe incarnated! All of the powers and abilities of thousands of past Avatars now flow through my veins! Pure, infinite power!"

"You're no Avatar," Toph stated.

"Then allow me to give you a demonstration! With my newfound powers, I can control nature itself!" He pointed his fingers up towards the blood red sky, and suddenly, violent lightning bolts sliced downward, crashing into the ground around them.

Sokka let out a scream as he barely avoided a stray bolt.

Then a lightning bolt descended straight down into Kahn's raised fingers. Grinning, he allowed the energy to flow through his body. Then, he aimed his fingers at Katara.

ZAAAAAP!!!

The thick lightning bolt aimed straight and true for its target. Katara was trapped, and no one would make it in time to rescue her.

Thinking quickly, Toph stomped the earth, and Katara disappeared beneath the ground. She appeared on a few feet away, directly out of the path of fire.

"Thanks Toph," she breathed.

Meanwhile, the lightning bolt struck a formation and incinerated it. Kahn sneered at them. "Impressed? I'm rather pleased with this new … transformation. With the combined energies of the Avatars, I have enough power to blow away the earth itself! And I have Aang to thank for it."

"Let him go," Katara demanded.

The Anti-Avatar laughed. "Let him go? Why would I give up infinite power?"

"We will make you let him go," Zuko snarled.

"Such bravado. You're courageous boy – but you clearly have no clue what you're up against!"

Zuko slid into a combat stance. "Try me!"

"Very well."

And Kahn instantly vanished from their sight.

"Where'd he go," Sokka asked.

"I can't track his movements!" Even Toph was unnerved.

And Kahn suddenly phased in front of Zuko, and delivered a power packed punch into the boy's stomach. Gasping for air, the Fire Lord doubled over, only for Kahn to deliver a devastating kick to the head.

Zuko sailed several yards away, crashing into some large rocks. He stood up, sweat and blood rolling down his face.

And Kahn vanished again.

Everyone looked around the battlefield, trying to keep track of his movements.

"Behind you!"

Zuko whirled around, only to be blasted hundreds of feet away by hurricane force winds. The Fire Lord crashed again, and was barely able to stand up. Katara and Suki rushed over to help him to his feet.

They looked up as Kahn started slowly marching toward them, a proud smile on his face and a murderous gleam in his eye.

Team Avatar looked at each other for ideas. Never before had they faced anything even close to this.

And without Aang to help them, what chance did they have?

The monster continued his warpath.

***

Oni Fleet – Night

They were surrounded. Iroh knew that this was the end – there was no chance left for them. Their forces had been reduced to about a third of their original size, and the deck of the ship was littered with the bodies of their fallen comrades.

Meanwhile, all of the other enemy ships had maneuvered into a circular position, surrounding our heroes. Thousands of Oni stood on the sides of the ships, crossbows leveled against them.

The Boulder looked over at Iroh. "What do we do now?"

The Oni Admiral shoved his way through to face the small group of rebels, the treacherous Grog at his side. The Admiral grinned right in Iroh's face.

"This is the end of the line. Your forces are decimated and your allies lie dead around you. Surrender now, and I may let the remainder of you live!"

Everyone waited with baited breath. What would be his decision?

The Dragon of the West surveyed his men – they were tired, wounded, yet determined. He could read in their eyes – none of them wanted to give in. They would fight to the last man.

He turned back to the Oni Admiral. "We will go down fighting!"

The Admiral shook his head in amazement. "You fool! You're outnumbered, you're outmatched – why do wish to persist in this?!"

"For Aang," he said softly.

"Then you've sealed your own fate!" The Admiral turned and walked away. As he did so, he waved his hand, giving the attack signal.

The Oni cocked their weapons, and prepared to open fire.

***

"HAAA!!!"

"HAAA!!!"

Katara and Zuko unleashed their attacks at the same time, Zuko shooting a blast of flame and Katara with a jet of water.

With a flick of his hand, Kahn deflected both attacks with mere Airbending.

Toph rode on a wave of earth, punching her fists repeatedly, showering the Anti-Avatar with a spray of shrapnel. Kahn shrugged it off and swept her away with a gust of wind.

Sokka and Suki tried their hand next. The Water Tribe boy and the Kyoshi Warrior moved in with melee attacks – Suki with her fans and Sokka with his space sword. Smirking the whole time, Kahn dodged all of their attacks without even moving from his spot. He then rooted his stance and an explosion of compressed air blasted the duo away.

Team Avatar stood together, facing their invincible foe.

"I sure hope someone has a plan," Toph muttered. Everyone looked to Sokka.

"I'm fresh out," was his somber answer.

Kahn was on the move again, fire on his heels propelling him forward. The gang scattered, avoiding a large fireball that came screaming for their heads.

BOOM!!!

BOOM!!!

BOOM!!!

More fireballs crashed around them. Kahn was laughing.

Team Avatar was at the end of the road. If they didn't figure something out soon, they were toast.

***

Oni Internment Camp – Mines - Night

"The water's getting higher!"

The cry of the Oni cut through the flooding mines. Azula rolled her eyes. "Thanks for that, Captain Obvious!"

Everyone looked to her for answers, their unofficial "leader", hoping she had an idea to save their lives. Already the water was up to their waists. Some of the little children had to be lifted up onto their parents' shoulders.

And before them stretched on miles and miles. They would never be able to reach the end before the water was over their heads.

"Are there any Waterbenders," the Princess asked hopefully.

She was met with silence.

Swearing under her breath, she rubbed her temples, clearly irritated. She would have a major headache before this was all through.

And finally she came to a painful decision.

"Alright, everyone! We're going back the way we came!"

Several disgruntled grunts rose from the crowd.

"Back?!"

"But we'll be captured!"

"Listen, if you want to go on ahead and drown, be my guest! But if you want to live, then follow me!"

She turned on her heel and began swishing through the water back the way she came. The crowd hesitated – even the Oni that were with them seemed unsure.

But what choice did they have?

Loi came up beside the Fire Princess and leaned into her ear. "What concerns me are those Oni here with us. What if they decide to capture us all the moment we return back into the complex?"

"Then I'll make them know the meaning of pain."

***

KABOOM!!!

KABOOM!!!

KABOOM!!!

***

A series of explosions rocked the mines, and several children screamed.

"What was that?!"

"It sounded like a cave-in!"

Azula cursed under her breath. She rushed over to the entrance to the mines, water up to her chest now – and her face appeared crestfallen.

There had indeed been a cave-in. Giant boulders now blocked the entrance – sealing off any escape. Azula doubted that it was natural. Those Oni wanted them trapped in here desperately.

"It's over," she whimpered. The once proud Fire Princess was reduced to tears. "There's no escape for us!"

The water continued rising.

***

Team Avatar was making their final stand.

They had fought for so much together, been together through thick and thin. The bond they all shared had no comparison.

Some of them had once been enemies.

Some had been rivals.

But one thing was certain.

They were all friends now.

And they wouldn't back down. They were a tightly knit pack.

And one of their own was in danger.

Team Avatar was incomplete.

The very one the group had been named for was in mortal peril. They had to work fast to save him.

***

Kahn teleported out of the way – Katara's most recent attack falling short by just inches. He appeared right in front of her, smirking, delivered a furious blow to her ribs and then disappeared again.

This was how it went. They couldn't keep up with his movements. Kahn was all over them – teleporting all over the battlefield, attacking, and then phasing out again before they could counter.

Team Avatar was pushing their limit.

The group huddled close together, as Kahn watched them curiously. "He's too fast," Zuko panted. "There's no way we can keep up with him!"

"Then why don't we divide his attention," proposed Sokka. "He may be fast – but not even he can keep up with all of us!"

"Divide and conquer," Toph said. "I like the sound of that!"

"Okay," Sokka began to explain. "We split up and attack him at once from different sides. If we do that, we may be able to get a few attacks off on him!"

"But what about Aang," a concerned Katara worried. "That monster fused them together – what if we hurt Aang while trying to take him down?"

Sokka looked at her very seriously. "And what will he do to Aang if we don't stop him? What will he do to the world?!"

Katara bit her lip and nodded. She knew he was right, but it didn't make the pain any less easy.

Suki raised a finger knowingly. "Maybe if we weaken Kahn enough, Aang'll be able to break free!"

"It's a long shot," Zuko replied. "A really, really, really long shot. But, it's the only plan we've got. Let's do it!"

"Now you're talking my language," Toph cheered. They all put their hands in a circle, knowing this could be their last minutes together.

"For Aang," Katara said quietly.

"FOR AANG," they all cheered.

A bored Kahn raised his eyebrow curiously.

***

Katara charged angrily, two water tentacles flowing off her arms. She swung them furiously at the glowing enemy before her. Kahn leaped out of the way, the fire on his heels propelling him up in the air. He whirled, twisted his arm and a beam of fire arced towards her.

Darting out of the way, Katara gathered more water as the Anti-Avatar landed in front of her. She wobbled on her feet, tiring out – she could feel the growing child inside her beginning to move.

For the first time, she could feel the baby moving about inside of her.

Aang should be here to feel this, she thought bitterly.

But now he was trapped – fused together with the Anti-Avatar. As she fought on, her thoughts suddenly drifted back to the young monk. All of the emotions and feelings for him came out all of a sudden in her mind.

She remembered when she and Sokka found him frozen in that iceberg. She remembered it like it was yesterday.

You were so happy, so energetic, she thought. At first I thought that you were just a goofy kid, a younger brother if you will. And you had no family. I still remember when we were at the Southern Air Temple and you discovered that everyone you knew and cared for was gone. I felt the need to protect you. I wanted to be there for you.

As time went on, our bond grew closer, and though I didn't realize it until much later, I grew to care for you in a different way. I was confused, and it took me a while to realize the truth – but I loved you, Aang.

I love you.

And I intend to keep the promise Sokka and I made to you that day at the Southern Air Temple. We'll protect you.

I promise, I will free you from Kahn!

No matter what it takes!

***

Zuko's eyes furrowed as he poured flames out of his hands. Kahn countered with a flaming wall as a defense – then Zuko was struck with two heavy boulders. The Fire Lord staggered about, and attacked back with more fire.

Kahn gathered the falling rainwater into a shapeless liquidly mass and thrust it forward, dousing the boy's attack.

Zuko panted and then with a yell jumped into the air, kicking flames wildly. Kahn knocked the attacks aside and teleported away. Zuko landed, his fist punching into the ground.

Kahn appeared behind him, pointed his fingers and ZAAP!!! Zuko rolled out of the way, narrowly missing the lightning.

As he stood up, his mind wandered away to Aang. He couldn't believe it – he was now actually fighting to save the Avatar, instead of against him. He remembered the events in his life that led up to today. He had stood up for a loyal battlement of soldiers – and it resulted in his father horribly scarring his face.

I never dreamed that I would actually be fighting alongside the Avatar and his friends. For so long, I thought that if I captured the Avatar; if I brought him back to my father in chains – that I would be able to restore my honor. That I would be able to earn my father's love.

I was so naïve then. How could I possibly think that I could buy the love of someone who loved no one but himself? I fought so hard against you – using everything in my arsenal to bring you down. I even used your own friends against you!

When I think of everything I've done – of who I was – I get sickened. I was a lost soul.

But you … you helped me, Aang. After I betrayed Uncle, my whole world shattered. How could I betray the man who raised me as his own? The man who, even though he knew I was doing the wrong things, still had faith in me? How could he have ever forgiven me? How could I have forgiven myself?

But you, Aang … you accepted me immediately as one of your group. You even wanted me to teach you Firebending – me, the very one who had been fighting against you for so long! All the others warmed up to me eventually.

But you had faith in me from the beginning.

You were so much like my Uncle.

You helped save me from myself.

So now I'm going to save you!

Aang, you've done so much for us.

How could we ever repay you?

How?

***

Toph stamped her foot hard on the ground, sending a rippling crack in the earth. Kahn watched as the ground split beneath him. Using Airbending, he rose up out of the way and landed on a rocky outcropping above her. He shot some fire at her, and then dove down from the outcropping. He punched his fist into the ground, sending shockwaves like ripples in the earth.

Toph struggled to maintain her balance and sense the Anti-Avatar's position.

Twinkletoes, she thought. You better make it through this alive!

She kicked the ground, hoping to knock Kahn over. He just smiled and rooted his stance. Fire leaped from his knuckles and Toph raised an earthen barrier.

You just had to come into my life. I was having a peaceful existence with my family and you had to stick your big bald head right into it!

Aaaw, who am I kidding? I was excited when you first appeared. I was dying to get out of my parent's clutches – and you provided me with that window of opportunity. You allowed me to teach you Earthbending, and even though you were a knucklehead sometimes, I have to admit … You changed me.

You helped me to open up to people – you've shown me that life isn't always fun and games. You were there when I decided to take my life into my own hands – and your big goofy face has been there, smiling ever since.

You even rival me in Earthbending!

You've fought off everything from Fire Lords to Anti-Avatars, and you still kept on going. Not caring about your own safety.

You cared about us more than yourself.

Twinkletoes … you truly are number one.

***

Yikes!

Sokka ducked low as a searing fireball blazed over his head. He looked over to make sure that Suki was okay.

He fondled the weapon at his side.

Alright boomerang, don't fail me now! He hurled the weapon as hard as he could, and for an instant, was reminded of the time when he used it to defeat the Combustion Man at the Western Air Temple.

Kahn saw the weapon coming and fried it with a superheated attack. Tears welled in the warrior's eyes as he saw his precious weapon turn into flame broiled, charred dust. Gritting his teeth, he drew his space sword and lunged.

The Anti-Avatar took a step back, narrowly avoiding having his head sliced clean off. Sokka continued to press the attack, driving Kahn back. The Anti-Avatar grinned, deciding to play along. He ducked and dived, easily steering clear of Sokka's attacks.

Sokka was getting angrier.

He moved in again, and this time scored a direct blow. His blade left a long, thin scar across Kahn's forehead. Blood dripped from the wound, and the boy cheered.

"Yeah, direct hit!"

And then Kahn started smiling.

Sokka looked down to see a ball of glowing energy pulsing in Kahn's hands. He realized his mistake – he had gotten too close to the Anti-Avatar. With a boom, Sokka was blown clean off his feet and landed hard on his back.

And then he felt a searing, mind-numbing pain in his right knee. He looked down, afraid of what he might see.

The blade of his sword had pierced clean through his shin, the pointed tip jutting out the other side. He screamed in pain, and Suki rushed over to him. She placed her hands near the wound as Kahn stalked towards them.

Zuko, Katara and Toph charged in, attempting to fight Kahn off – trying to prevent him from reaching the wounded Sokka.

Suki leaned over her boyfriend. "This is going to hurt!"

She placed her hands on the hilt of the weapon and prepared to pull. She saw the pain in Sokka's face, and wondered whether she should remove the sword at all. Of course she should, but knowing it would cause Sokka more pain made it more difficult.

"I have an idea," she said.

"Just get the dang sword out of me!"

And then he felt like his leg had been dipped in ice water as he lost all feeling. The next thing he knew, Suki had removed the sword without him feeling any pain. In fact, he had no feeling in his leg at all.

"What the …?"

Suki smiled. "Ty Lee's chi blocking technique … remember?"

He nodded. "I remember a lot of things…"

As Suki cradled his head on her lap, he watched as his other friends fought off the Anti-Avatar without him.

He remembered that very first day … the day that changed the course of history.

Aang … I didn't trust you at first. I thought you might have been a spy for the Fire Nation or something. At first I didn't like you at all, but then over time … you saved us too many times to count. The day Zuko attacked our village, and you selflessly gave yourself up to him.

You saved us from Fire Nation troops, pirates, Zhao, Azula, the Fire Lord, Monk Guandao and just about every other horrible thing you could imagine.

And all the good times we shared …

You grew to become my best friend.

And part of my family.

Aang … please make it through this.

I can't bear the thought of a world without you…

***

A sudden, compressed blast of air threw Katara, Toph and Zuko off their feet. Kahn stood over them, his expression unreadable.

"You guys fought a good battle … but I'm afraid that the end has come. It's time for me to show you my full power – and end this pathetic battle once and for all!"

Kahn began powering up.

His energy levels surged to heights unimaginable. Pure, unrestrained energy whipped about his form, and sparks lashed out in all directions. The ground itself began to shake.

The gang was all out of options. This was it.

Kahn was unstoppable. They were all going to die here and now.

And yet … Katara, Zuko and Toph stood up once more. Despite Suki protests, Sokka managed to stand up with them, holding on to the hilt of sword, using it as a pseudo-cane.

Kahn grimaced. "You fools just keep lining up to die…"

He blasted them all to the ground with a rush of wind.

And they all staggered to their feet again.

The Anti-Avatar was visibly frustrated. "What's wrong with you? Why can't you all admit defeat and just stay down?!"

"We'll keep rising, Kahn," Katara said quietly. "Because what we represent can never be permanently put down!"

"We'll just see about that!" He pointed his hand at them, preparing to finish them all off once and for all.

A jet of water slapped him across the face before he could execute the attack. "What the …?"

"Leave them alone!"

Kahn whirled around to face the speaker … and a mixture of shock and anger crossed his face. "Eena …?!"

The woman shook her head. "No, Kahn. Not 'Eena.' Not anymore!" Kya slid into a battle stance, water streaming around her body. "Your fight is with me now!"

***

Mines – Night

The water had now risen up to their necks. Everyone by now had started panicking. Azula waded through the water, pacing back and forth. Mai just stood there, looking bored.

"That's it," one of the trapped Oni screeched. "It's over!"

"Just shut up," Azula snapped, rubbing her temples. "We need to stay calm, and think this through rationally!"

"Stay calm! Stay calm! This water is going to continue rising! We're all going to drown! How do you expect us to stay calm?!"

"All we need is a plan." She sighed and thought for a minute. She then pointed to one of the higher ranking Oni. "You! Do you have any idea where all this water is coming from?"

The Oni thought for a minute. "There's an aqueduct that runs up along above the mines," he said. "The Warden probably decided to flood it."

"You said it runs above the mines?" He nodded in affirmation. "Is there anything else that runs above us?"

He paused to think. "Ventilation shafts," he replied, shrugging. "There are several ventilation shafts that run above us."

"I think we just found our way out…"

The Oni's eyes bulged. "Are you crazy?! You can't send us all through those ventilation shafts!"

"And why not?"

"There are multiple shafts. If we go through the wrong one, it might take us straight into the boiler room. There's enough superheated gas to melt us all … very slowly, I might add."

"But what if we choose the right one?"

"Well … I suppose it'll lead further underground … and straight into open air."

"Then that's what we'll do." She turned to several Earthbenders. "I need you to open the ceiling and find us those ventilation shafts. Then we need you to Earthbend us all into them!"

The Earthbenders began going to work, searching for the shafts. The Oni was practically flipping out. "You're crazy! You have no idea which shaft is which! You could get us all fried alive!"

Azula turned on him furiously. "Well, it's a risk I'm willing to take! If you want to stay here in the mines and drown, then be my guest! Otherwise, shut up and come with us!"

The Oni groaned.

***

"I never thought that you, of all people, would betray me!"

The two were circling each other, as the gang looked on. "You betrayed me, Kahn," Kya replied. "You hid my true identity from me; I blindly obeyed you. I killed for you! But not anymore. You won't be controlling me anymore!" She looked at the rest of the gang, who was watching nervously. "I don't want anyone else to get involved! This fight is between me and him now! I'm going to be the one to finish him!"

Kahn burst out laughing. "If the Avatar's friends couldn't stop me, then what chance do you have?!"

"The Avatar's friends can't Energybend."

"I still don't see -."

"You're not thinking, Kahn. You made me use Energybending on the Avatar. You forced me to send him to that inter-dimensional prison on the Winter Solstice. So now … I'm going to do the same to you!"

A glimmer of fear flashed in the Anti-Avatar's face. For the first time, genuine fear rippled through his body. It vanished as quickly as it came, only to be replaced by an arrogant sneer. "That may be true, but you'll have to catch me first! I'll finish you before you even have a chance to send me to that wretched place!"

He vanished before her very eyes. Kya steeled herself, looking around quickly. Kahn reappeared, about to attack.

Kya was prepared for him.

Fast as lightning, she struck him with a water whip before he even had a chance to attack. He flew several feet into the air, before regaining his footing. He looked up to see a confident smile on Kya's face.

She was on him in an instant. Gathering more water, she threw it on him and froze it, effectively trapping him in a block of ice.

CRASH!!!

Kahn burst through the ice block and began kicking some fire at her. Kya moaned as her right arm was burned.

"Mom!" Katara began to rush over.

"Stay back, Katara! I told you – let me handle this! I'm the only one who can stop him now!"

Kya suddenly found her feet trapped in earth. And then Kahn phased in right in front of her, the palm of his hand only inches from her face. It began glowing red as he started to form a fireball.

Kya gathered the rainwater and froze it onto Kahn's hand. Then his other hand. Then Kya wrenched her feet out of the earth and blasted Kahn back with more water. The Anti-Avatar melted the ice on his hands and prepared to Firebend – Kya was already on him. She began to drive him back with more water, attacking furiously, desperately trying to keep him on the defensive.

Kahn hurled a large boulder at her with Earthbending.

Kya rolled out of the way and froze some more rainwater into icy bullets. She ducked out of the way of another fireball, saw an opening and gathered the ice bullets to attack.

ZAAAAAAP!!!

Kya stiffened as the ice bullets dropped hopelessly to the ground around her. She looked up at Kahn, whose fingers were still pointed at her.

"Mooooom!!!"

Katara and Sokka's voice cut through her head, and her vision was beginning to swim. There was a blackened spot on her stomach where Kahn had run her through with lightning.

With a gasp, she fell to the ground.

Katara and Sokka watched it happening as if it were in slow motion.

Kya lay on the ground, her body twitching from the electricity that was still coursing through her body.

The twitching gradually stopped.

Kahn was grinning. "Well … I guess that takes care of that problem." He towered over Kya's unmoving form.

***

Suddenly, Kahn led out a large bellow of pain and staggered forward. He looked around at the source and his glowing eyes narrowed.

"You!"

Monk Guandao pushed the jagged edge of the wooden beam forward, pressing it deeper into Kahn's wounded side.

With a roar, the Anti-Avatar batted Guandao aside and removed the makeshift spear from his abdomen.

Guandao slowly staggered to his feet as Kahn began advancing on him.

"You old fool … I no longer need you for my plans. After all your plotting … after all your planning … in the end, you still amount to nothing! I think it's about time you left this world …"

The Anti-Avatar blasted Guandao with some wind. The old monk went sailing through the air, hit his head on a rocky outcropping, and moved no more.

***

Kahn began to levitate into the air, rising about a hundred feet above them. "I'm getting pretty tired of this pointless battle. None of you pose any serious threat to me anymore. So now, I'm going to just end it!"

He raised his hand up, and a small fireball appeared. And it grew bigger. And bigger. And bigger. The pulsing fireball expanded to one hundred feet in width. And Kahn held it high up over his head.

"How about this?! I'll incinerate you all with this attack! Why, with just one shot, the earth will be blown away! Along with all of you!"

Below, Team Avatar watched helplessly. They had lost. They were all going to die now.

They had failed Aang.

Above, Kahn prepared to throw his gargantuan fireball.

***

And suddenly, the fireball dissipated in Kahn's hand. His eyes widened. "What's going on?!" Then his body began moving freakishly, as if some unseen force were controlling his movements and pulling him back to the earth.

He struggled against this invisible force. "Why … have I … lost control … of … my body?!"

Everyone turned to look and see a weakened, bruised and bloody Kya standing there, arms outstretched. That lightning blast hadn't killed her … but it had weakened her greatly. There were signs of strain on her face as she continued to Bloodbend the Anti-Avatar.

She Bloodbended him straight back to the ground and forced him to his hands and knees.

"Let me go! Let me go this instant!"

Kya moved slowly, dragging her feet. Her vision was swimming in and out of focus, and she knew she didn't have much time left. She could feel herself dying as the seconds ticked by.

And there was a problem.

How was she going to send Kahn to that inter-dimensional prison and Bloodbend him at the same time?

"Katara!"

The young woman rushed over to her mother. "Mom?!"

"Katara … listen to me … we don't have much time … Can't … hold him … for much longer. I need … you to … take over!"

Katara backed away a little bit. "Bloodbending? I don't know…" She had always hated that technique, ever since Hama taught it to her. It was vile, disgusting and downright degrading.

"Katara please!" And there was so much pain in that voice. How could she say no? And if it would save Aang …

Nodding, Katara took over, and began Bloodbending the Anti-Avatar. She forced him into even more submission.

Even though his body was being controlled, Kahn could still talk.

As Kya moved closer to him, Kahn began bellowing. "Eena … wait! Don't do this! Don't throw away everything we've worked so hard for! We can destroy all these pathetic humans! And we can rule over what's left! We'll rule a new world together … one of our own creation!"

Kya ignored him and placed two fingers on his forehead and on his neckline.

"Please …" He looked over at Katara. "If you let me go, I'll release Aang! I'll leave this world – forever!"

"Don't listen to him, Katara," Kya snapped desperately. "There's no truth in him – he only tells lies!"

"Curse you! But Katara … you cannot hope to hold me for long! I'll break free and then I'll have both your heads!"

Kahn struggled against Katara's Bloodbending. Already he was beginning to free himself from her grasp.

"Katara," Kya shouted. "Hold him! You need to hold him for just a few more minutes!"

Nodding, Katara increased pressure on Kahn's blood, forcing him back into submission.

Kya intensified her Energybending. Blue light suddenly flowed out of her body, as red light flowed out from Kahn's.

This was it.

The moment of truth.

Kya's soul overpowered Kahn's. And then Kya began the work involved in sending the Anti-Avatar to another dimension.

Kahn's body began to fade away before them. He continued struggling – but it was no use.

The Anti-Avatar had finally been defeated.

Just before he vanished from this world, he let out a final scream of anger. "CURSE YOUuuuuuuuu………"

Just like that, the Anti-Avatar evaporated from sight.

He was gone, placed in the very same inter-dimensional prison that Aang had once been placed in.

And there he would stay.

Forever.

***

And as soon as the Anti-Avatar had been expunged from our world, Kya collapsed on the ground in exhaustion. Katara and Sokka rushed to their mother's side. Katara cradled her head on her lap. "Stay with us, mom!"

"It's no use. His lightning … got me. I've lost too much energy. There's nothing to prevent me from dying now."

"I can help you," Katara screeched. She would not lose her mother again. She poured spirit water on her mother's form.

"Why isn't it working," she screamed in frustration.

Kya shook her head. "Not even spirit water can save me now… I deserve to die."

"No mom, you don't. Please, just hang on! Don't die!"

"I'm so sorry … for everything I've done to you. All of you. I had lost myself for a while. Please … forgive me."

Katara pressed her forehead to Kya's. "We already have."

A small smile flitted across her face as she tenderly stroked Katara and Sokka's cheek. "Tell your father … it had to be this way … I love all of you …" She stroked Katara's tear stained cheek. "Be brave my little girl … be happy …"

And her breathing stopped as the life departed form Kya's form.

Katara cradled her mother's lifeless body close, tears streaming from her eyes. But even though her mother was dead, Katara managed a small smile. The evil that had for so long controlled her was gone.

Eena was gone.

And in the end, Kya had found redemption.

In the end, Ana found the loving family she had always longed for.

***

"Hey, what's that over there," Toph suddenly remarked. She was pointing to where, just moments before, Kahn had been standing. There was a shape lying on the ground – unmoving.

"Aang!" Katara rushed over to her husband's form. "Aang! Wake up! Wake up!"

The young monk's head lolled from side to side as she shook him. She was desperate now – she couldn't afford to lose anyone else today.

And Aang's eyes slowly opened.

The first thing he saw was Katara.

"Katara…"

"I'm here, Aang," she replied soothingly.

"Would you go penguin sledding with me?"

She laughed softly, and cradled her head against hers.

"Okay."

***

Sokka's voice broke the tender moment between the young couple.

"Hey … where's Guandao?"

Everyone bolted upright.

"What do you mean," Toph exclaimed.

"I mean, he's not here!"

Everyone looked at the spot where the unconscious Guandao had been laying just moments ago. Sokka was right.

Guandao was gone.

***

Aang slowly stood up, supported by Katara. Toph smiled warmly as she playfully punched him in the arm. "Well, Twinkletoes, it looks like it's finally over."

Aang beamed down at her. "Almost, Toph. Almost."

"What do you mean?"

"There's still one more thing that needs to be done."

Everyone backed away as Aang was surrounded by a sphere of air. He rose up into the sky, his eyes and tattoos glowing. Aang had entered the Avatar State. He turned his head towards the sea, where the entire Oni fleet was floating.

He propelled himself forward.

***

Oni Fleet – Night/Early Morning

Iroh and his men had been practically defeated. There were only a handful of them left. The survivors were rounded up on the deck of the flagship, as the Admiral grinned down at them.

"This is it," he laughed. "You have all fought valiantly, but it's over now. Your men are dead, and by now your Avatar should have been defeated by the Anti-Avatar. But don't worry – you'll be joining him soon enough!"

He raised his hand, signaling his troops to finish the small group off.

Iroh lowered his head as Jeong Jeong and Bumi joined him. "I'm afraid this it," he said sadly.

"We gave it our best," Bumi replied. "That's what counts."

The Oni prepared to fire their crossbows all at once.

Suddenly, a horrified Oni trooper ran up to the Admiral. "Sir! Our Southern flank has been wiped out!"

"What?!" The Admiral signaled his troops to halt their fire as he looked in the distance with a small telescope. Indeed, the soldier had been right. The Southern flank was sinking into the sea, and the Oni aboard were scrambling for lifeboats.

"What could have done this?!"

"Look sir! In the sky!"

The Admiral looked up to see the Avatar flying in the air, bringing crashing waves down to bear on the Oni vessels. The Admiral began flipping out.

"Attack the Avatar," he shouted. He was frantic now. "Concentrate all fire on him!"

The Oni aimed their crossbows at him, firing. With a wave of his hand, the Avatar blew the arrows away. He then brought another wave, taking out several enemy ships.

"Get the ballistae ready," the Admiral shouted.

Several ballistae armaments aimed up at the Avatar, firing flaming balls of earth. With a gentle hand motion, the Avatar used Earthbending to implode them.

He then overturned several more ships.

The Avatar focused on the Oni flagship now.

He fired a jet of water across the deck, throwing dozens of Oni overboard. He then looked down at the cowering Admiral with those intense white eyes.

The Admiral surrendered without a fight.

And, just like that, the Avatar had completely devastated the entire Oni fleet.

***

"We did it!"

Hundreds of weary prisoners climbed out of an open duct from the underground ventilation shaft. Azula breathed in the fresh air of freedom. They were safe now.

Mai grimaced as she wiped away all of the dirt and grime from her clothes. "We're free," she said. "Yipee."

Azula felt Loi's fingers intertwine with her own. "You saved us all, Azula," he smiled.

"Yea I know."

He laughed. "As modest as ever, I see."

"I can't help but wonder though … What happened to Zuzu and the rest?"

Loi nuzzled her neck. "I'm sure they're fine."

The two stared into each other's eyes.

They kissed furiously.

***

"Look! There he is!" The rest of Team Avatar were riding on Appa's back. Hakoda had found Haru earlier and they had come to get the rest of the gang. Katara used some of her spirit water to fix the sky bison up and now they were floating over the ocean, surveying the shattered remains of the Oni fleet. Thousands of Oni were hanging on to parts of the wreckage for dear life. Aang had been sure to destroy the ships and spare the troops at the same time.

"That Avatar State packs a wallop," Hakoda whistled.

"I'll say," was Toph's reply.

They landed Appa on the deck of the Oni flagship – the only ship that Aang had not completely destroyed.

Aang was surrounded by a crowd of people – Sun Tzu warriors, Iroh, the rest of the Order of the White Lotus, several old friends. They were all cheering him on.

"Hey, don't forget us," Sokka said, hopping off of Appa's back. "We were the ones who helped save Aang, remember?"

As everyone celebrated their sudden victory over the Oni, Katara departed from the group and looked over at the sunrise. She couldn't join in the celebrations.

Her thoughts drifted to the events of today, and she could feel her heart tearing up inside of her chest. She wondered if there was something she could have done differently, or sooner, to help her mother.

She couldn't help but cry.

She had lost her mother – twice now.

And both times, Kya had given her life to protect the ones she loved. How could she get over this? Things would never go back to the way they were. How could things go back to normal after you've experienced so much hurt?

She felt a reassuring hand on her shoulder. She turned to see Aang, smiling down at her. Aang would be there for her. Together, they would get through this. The two kissed, and then held each other as they watched the rising sun.

***

The Southern Water Tribe – A Week Later

Hundreds of people crowded around outside, braving the frigid cold. A ceremony was being held here to commemorate the memory of everyone who had died during the wars.

It was also a ceremony to celebrate its heroes.

The leaders of the Nations stood there in stunning regalia. Hakoda, Zuko and the Earth King stood side by side as a small band of children sauntered up to them. Bosco roared to the side.

"You all are heroes," Hakoda said. "This is the third time during the course of a year you group have saved the world."

While the rest of the gang took it all in humbly, Toph and Sokka ate up all the attention.

The Earth King smiled. "You've saved my life on numerous occasions. You all exposed Long Feng and the Dai Li. You saved me from Monk Guandao. You saved me from an Oni assassination attempt. So you all deserve these." Several dignitaries came forth and placed medals around their necks.

It was the Fire Lord's turn. Mai, Azula and Loi stood beside him. "Aang," he said. "When we first met, we were enemies. Now, I consider you to be my best friend. You helped me to find my path when I was lost. I'll see to it that you go down in Fire Nation history as legend."

His eyes found Katara. "And you … Even though you distrusted me at first, you were there on the day of Sozin's Comet when we faced Azula. You have been one of the most loyal friends I've had, and you helped to save the world. The world owes you as much as Aang." He felt tears glimmer in his eyes. "How can you ever be repaid for what you've done … and what you've lost?"

Zuko reached up and removed his Fire Nation crown. "This was given to me by my mother, Ursa, shortly before she died. I want you to have it … so that you know that there's someone out there who feels your pain."

Katara humbly nodded – and then gripped Zuko in a quick hug. She gave him a kiss on the cheek, and she looked up at his face – and noticed tears in his eyes as well.

She was not alone in her pain.

After the ceremony, everyone began continuing the celebrations. Mankind had been saved from extinction. It was a cause for party.

Katara wandered off alone.

Aang ran to catch up with her. "Where are you going?"

"I … there's something I need to do. For closure."

Aang nodded. "I understand, Katara. And when you're ready to talk with me about it … I'll be waiting."

***

Katara entered a small tent, pushing aside its flap. The tent was circular, and around its perimeter were several burning candles. In the center was a marble table.

On top of the marble table was the body of Kya, which was awaiting burial. Katara moved to stand beside the body of her mother. She noticed that her mother's hands were clasped around a small lily. Hmm, that was odd. She didn't remember that lily being here last time she checked. She quickly pushed it out of her mind as she kneeled down next to her mother.

"I remember when I was really little," she said. "You used to come in with your furs … and you used to bundle me up against you in your own coats. And I used to feel so … safe in your arms. And you told me that you would always be there to protect me."

She sniffed back some more tears. "And you did protect me, mom. You protected my identity from the Fire Nation, even though it cost you your own life.

"And when you used to hold me ... I knew that you truly loved me. And even when you were under the control of the Anti-Avatar, I knew ... there was still a little glimmer of that love left." She bit her lip, holding back her tears.

"All I ever wanted was to be your little girl."

And overcome with emotion, Katara buried her face in her mother's burial garments and began crying anew.

***

Ship – Somewhere in the Southern Ocean – Afternoon

"So what's the plan now, chief? The Anti-Avatar's gone … what's to become of all of us?" Commander Ji was standing on the deck of a small ship, along with Rozar and Tiny. Monk Guandao was leaning over the railing.

"The Anti-Avatar is gone – but there is still much work to be done. The events of the past few months have shown exactly what I've been saying all along – humans are vicious, violent animals. Give them just a little bit of wiggle room – and they'll tear right through you. That's why they need someone who knows how to deal with them – someone with an iron will to do what needs to be done!"

"Someone like who, sir?"

Guandao smiled. "Someone like me."

"So you still intend to rule the world?"

"Absolutely."

"But what of the Avatar?"

Guandao's smiled deepened. "These recent events have shown the Avatar the truth of my words. He will in time come to see things my way. Rest assured, one day the Avatar will join me. And if not … then I shall give him a quick and decisive end!"

"Not so fast," came a voice from behind them, and Guanda twirled around to see the Cabbage Man wagging a finger in his face.

"You're not doing anything of the sort, mister! Remember, the court back at Ba Sing Se placed you under my care! We're going back to Shark Fin Island right now!"

Guandao and Ji looked at each other. "Umm, sir," Ji said. "That look in your eye is starting to scare me!"

***

With a scream, the Cabbage Man was thrown overboard. He floundered about in the water and stared back up at the monk on the ship. "Aren't you forgetting something," he called.

"What," an irritated Guandao shouted.

The Cabbage Man took in a deep breath. "MY CABBAGES!!!"

With a roar of anger, Guandao kicked a small cart full of cabbages overboard. The Cabbage Man swam about furiously, trying to gather as many of his cabbages as possible.

***

Guandao leaned back over the railing of his ship, breathing deeply. Ji ventured forth some more questions. "If you don't mind me asking sir, why did we stop at the Southern Water Tribe earlier? Who was that woman? Why did you place that lily on her body?"

Guandao glared at him, and Ji seemed to shrink. "I'm sorry for hitting you with all these questions; I'm just curious is all. Was she someone special to you?"

The monk's features softened somewhat. "Yes," he replied after a moment's hesitation. "She was someone very special." He turned and began walking away. "If you don't mind, I think I'd like to be alone for a while."

Ji nodded. "I'll be sure to alert the crew that you're not to be disturbed."

Guandao swept past him and headed for his cabin. Ji wasn't sure, but he thought he saw a tiny gleaming tear roll down the monk's cheek.

He smiled warmly.

That guy's not as coldhearted as he'd like everyone to think.

***

Kyoshi Island – Morning – A Few Months Later

"Get up, get up, get up," came Sokka's singsong voice as he burst into Suki's bedroom. The Kyoshi Warrior pulled the covers up over her head. "Sokka, for goodness sake, just let me sleep!"

"Not today," he replied. "Come on, get up! Our guests are starting to arrive!"

Suki's head popped up. "Guests?" She gasped. "Oh, the reunion!"

Sokka nodded. "Yup. Zuko, Mai, Azula and Loi are almost here. I think they brought Toph with them! And Aang and Katara will be here any second! All of the Kyoshi Warriors are ready – Ty Lee is really excited. You're the only one who's missing!"

"Alright, alright, just give me a few seconds to get changed." She began slipping off her nightgown, only to notice Sokka standing there, practically drooling. "Yea, Sokka, I know we're engaged, but we're not married yet, so yea …!" She motioned for him to leave.

He pouted like a child, before leaving her to get ready.

Some things never change.

***

Zuko, Azula, Mai, Loi and Toph had arrived on a Fire Nation vessel. Ty Lee was excited to see them all and began blathering on about some new guy she met.

Suki and Sokka were the first to greet them, embracing them warmly. "Has Aang arrived yet," Zuko asked.

"He should be here in a few minutes," Sokka replied.

Sure enough, the familiar sight of the sky bison brought entire crowds out of their homes to meet the Avatar. One particular guy foamed at the mouth before collapsing in a heap.

Aang was the first to leap off of Appa's back, Momo circling above him. Aang had grown during the past couple of months. His physique was much bigger now, more muscular.

Sokka, however, grabbed him a bone-crunching hug. "How is my favorite brother-in-law?"

"Unable to breathe," Aang replied, patting the older boy on the back. "Hey everyone," he waved to the rest of his friends.

"Twinkletoes – you feel much bigger," Toph said, hugging him. "Glad to see you're starting to man up; though you'll always be Twinkletoes to me!"

Aang beamed even wider. "I have a surprise for you all! Come out, Katara!"

Katara came out from behind Appa, holding two small bundles in her arms. Everyone was dumbstruck. Sokka pointed at them. "Are those … what I think those are?"

Aang nodded. "Yup! Everyone – meet our children!"

Everyone was excited and rushed forward to see the babies. Sokka couldn't get over it. "Twins? You had twins?!"

Aang nodded. "A boy and a girl."

"What are their names," Ty Lee asked as she coochie-cooed them.

"The boy's name is Gyatso, and the girl's name is Kya."

"Are they benders," Toph asked.

Aang became even more excited. "Gyatso's a Waterbender and – you guys are gonna love this – Kya's an Airbender!"

Everyone was flabbergasted.

"So, you mean that …" Zuko trailed off.

"Yup! I'm going to revive the Air Nomads!"

Zuko smiled. "I'm happy for you, Aang. Especially with what the Fire Nation did … you have no idea how seeing that baby makes me feel."

"Will we get to visit them often," Suki asked.

"Of course," Katara responded. "Whenever you guys want."

"Well, they better be made of tougher material than you, Twinkletoes! I'm raising these kids to be lean, mean, bending machines!"

Everyone laughed.

Aang was the happiest of them all.

He finally had everything he could ever want.

The events of his life coursed through his head momentarily. After the horrors he endured, the people he lost – it felt good that he finally had everything he wanted. He didn't consider Team Avatar to be just friends.

He considered them all to be his family.

And it all started that day … when two young people from the Southern Water Tribe found the boy in the iceberg…

***

"So you're now a grandmother. You must be so proud!"

The ethereal form of Kya stood on the shores of Kyoshi Island, watching her two children and grandchildren. They looked so happy…

"I am proud, Gyatso." The ethereal form of Monk Gyatso joined her on the shores. "I'm glad the Spirits allowed us to see this day, instead of just reincarnating us again."

Gyatso nodded. "I am too Kya … or should I say, Ana. It truly is a happy ending."

She shook her head. "Not quite."

Gyatso looked at her curiously. "What do you mean?"

"Guandao," she breathed. "He's still as lost and confused as ever."

Gyatso nodded. "I know. But we have to have faith that he'll find the right path. We have to keep hoping, Kya. And one day … Guandao will realize that he's fighting for the wrong things. And when that happens … we'll be there, waiting for him to cross over and join us."

"I hope your right," Kya sighed.

"That's the point," he chuckled. "Hope."

Behind them, the form of Avatar Roku appeared. "It's time to go, you two."

"Can't we stay a little longer," Kya protested.

"I've given you long enough!"

Bowing their heads, Gyatso and Kya joined Roku as they headed towards a bright light. At the last minute, Roku turned his head to see a happy Aang. He almost got the feeling that Aang could see them.

"Stay happy, Aang," were Roku's final words to the young Avatar. "You've become a greater Avatar than even me. Good luck, and may you find happiness in all that you do."

He then followed after Monk Gyatso and Kya.

Together, the trio entered the light.

THE END

***

Author's Note: Thanks for staying with this story, everyone! Sorry for the long update time, life gets in the way of us all.

I put a lot of time, soul, heart and effort into this story and I'm glad to see that it's paid off. I'm a lot happier with how this story turned out than with my previous one. Honestly, my last story was not my best work. But this … I really worked hard on this one and I'm glad it turned out the way it did.

I also have plans to go back to my last story, Book 4: Air and do some minor tweaks with it. Nothing major, just some cosmetic stuff. Rewrite a few things to make the story flow better. I'll probably add some new scenes, especially in the first few chapters.

In terms of the future … am I finished writing stories?

Heck no! It's pretty safe to say that I'll be here on this site writing stories for a good, long time! :)

Will I write some more Avatar stories? Well, I don't want to make any promises. If I do, it'll have to have a really good plot. I do have some ideas I've been kicking around. For instance, it would be cool to focus on Aang's two children, Gyatso and Kya. Another idea I'm toying with is an OC – I have no name for him yet, but basically, he's Suki's annoying, no-good, mooching brother who decides to move in with her and Sokka. Basically, he drives them all nuts – and eventually they find out he's involved in some pretty shady business. A few other ideas include Iroh losing the Jasmine Dragon in a game of Pai Sho and a new person posing as the Blue Spirit. I'd also like to see Guandao make a return … though that might get repetitive. If I can find a good role for him to play, I will.

I also want to expand my writing base from Avatar on to other fandoms. Star Wars has been one of my all time favorites, ever since I was little. I'd like to try something with that fandom…

Basically, I'm just toying with ideas right now, and it may be some time before I write another story (with the exception of a possible oneshot, but that won't be this fandom).

As for this story: Why Book 5: Spirit?

After finishing my previous story, I just felt the writing bug. It bit me something awful. So, I came up with a sequel. The plotline always revolved around the Anti-Avatar. I liked the idea of an evil version of the Avatar who, instead of bringing balance to the world, brought chaos and discord.

Eena was there from the very beginning; however, she had a very different back story. Initially, she was supposed to have been from the future – she was to be revealed as the future Katara. The real Katara was to find ways to avoid becoming Eena, only to work against her and bring her to that destination. Ultimately I scrapped that idea as it didn't carry the emotional weight I wanted.

After rereading my previous story, I recognized the character arc I had created between Ursa an Azula. So I decided to do the same thing. Everything just fell into place, and Eena became Kya.

Monk Guandao was the main villain of the previous story, and I really wanted to bring him back. I wanted to show a different side of him. Previously, he was just a cold, sadistic air monk. I now expanded his backstory, in the hopes that people could partially sympathize with him (though not excuse his actions). I also added the bond between him and Aang as Guandao became a secondary villain. I felt this added more depth to their relationship and increased the threat of Guandao.

I originally wanted to completely redeem Guandao in this story. He was supposed to die during the final battle with the Anti-Avatar. However, I felt that would have been to cliché, and so I kept him alive. I also felt that someone like him wouldn't be that easy to change – I didn't want to turn him into another Zuko. This way now, Guandao's still on his bad self, but after seeing the return of Ana as Kya, it placed him at the beginning of the road to redemption. Will he be ultimately redeemed? Who knows. But I wanted to leave you with the feeling that, even though the Anti-Avatar is gone, there are still threats left in the world that Aang has to deal with, Guandao being a major one. An Avatar's job is never done!

I brought Ozai back to life because he was cool and I felt like I didn't give him his dues in Book 4: Air. This time, I really sent him out with a bang. I wanted to give him a chance for redemption that he would reject. And by rejecting it, he sealed his own fate by being consumed by the Anti-Avatar.

As for the comedy and romantic angles, these were particularly hard for me at first, especially in my last story. I'll be the first to admit, there's a lot of stuff that needs fixing in my last story, Book 4: Air – especially in the first half. The second half I managed to get in the groove so to speak, but I really feel the first half needs work. The dialogue, for one thing, was particularly wooden in the first few chapters. An author's work is never done.

While I'm tinkering with it, I'll try to come up with new stories as well. Keep an eye on my profile!

As for Avatar … the Avatar universe is a rich world full of limitless possibilities – which is why I was drawn to it. There are so many stories to tell … the world is just waiting for all of us here at to tell them all!

Keep writing, folks!

And please, if you don't mind, leave me a review and tell me what you think.

God bless!

-AlmF