61 Chapter 59

There was a slight delay between the finalization of the terms of surrender and when the Fire Nation was actually able to leave. Transferring people, supplies, and weapons between ships took a few days. Even when rushing it was an intensive process, but once it was completed the 15 ships we're quick to leave. Leaving the Northern Water Tribe by themselves to fix up the capital.

Aang and Katara took some final water bending lessons with Master Pakku. Aang was finishing his lessons on spiritual bending then the both of them received a few quick lessons on water bending construction. Normally the northern tribe sticks to the tradition of women heal and men fight with their water bending. However, there is some middle ground grey area with practical uses such as construction. Normally this would still be done by men, but wartime changes things. Also, there was Pakku's discovery that Katara is his ex-fiance's granddaughter. Which led to a water bending spar where Katara performed extremely well and earned some respect.

As their master perhaps I should have been more upset by Pakku teaching them but they're both competent benders by now. Given their talent in bending even without a master leading them they would reach master level themselves pretty soon. Plus, I've got an idea for my final lesson for them both. My prophetic bender dream gave me a lot to think about and one thing I saw inspired this lesson. However, I haven't had much time to fully delve into the dream and all of its content. While Pakku was training Aang and Katara, I was doing my best to be productive. Despite my lack of formal training on the subject, I dove into helping rebuild the city. During my construction efforts, I noticed a difference in my bending, or maybe it would better be described as noticing no difference. Ever since my encounter at the spirit oasis with the moon and ocean spirit, my bending has felt the same. There haven't been changes in the strength of my bending. Normally water bending strength waxes and wanes with the lunar cycle. After my meeting with the spirits, my bending has felt at full strength. I hadn't noticed before because I had primarily been bending at night under a full moon, but now in the daylight, it feels the same. I'm basically at my full bending potential all the time. I wonder if its because the moon spirit left a part of itself with me making it so I'm always under the effects of the moon. But, I'm not sure the spirit even left a part with me it may be this is just a gift. A gift that I may never be able to explain.

While my improved bending was quickly repairing large sections of the city Sokka was off with Yue. Without a looming betrothal over their heads, the two were really hitting it off. He did manage to do something productive though. He talked with Arnook and arranged for some aid to be sent to the south pole. Mostly in the form of some volunteer benders to help rebuild. A week and a half later when we were prepared to leave I somewhat expect Sokka to have made Yue a betrothal necklace. The fact that he didn't is probably for the best though, 16-year-olds shouldn't be getting engaged.

With the city mostly repaired it was time for us to go. We packed our things on Appa and we gathered around the training courtyard. A large crowd had formed to see us off, but It was Master Pakku that was the final person to see us off. The best part was he came bearing gifts.

"Katara, I want you to have this. This amulet contains water from the Spirit Oasis.  The water has unique properties. Don't lose it." He tells Katara as he hands over a small vial necklace. I really hope he had that water before I stole the Spirit Oasis' power.

"Thank you, Master Pakku" she accepts respectfully before stepping forward and hugging him.

"Avatar Aang, these scrolls will help you master the traditional forms of water bending, but remember they're no substitute for a real master." He then motions and another of his bending apprentices brings Aang a box full of water vending scrolls.

"Master Silva not many still adhere to the ancient ways, but those who do can always find a friend," He says softly before handing a Pai Sho tile and making a specific hand and now gesture. I accept the tile and then mimic his gesture.

"Sokka, Take care son" he then pats him on the shoulder leaving him visibly disappointed. The four of us then board Appa.

"I will soon be leaving to go south along with many other volunteers to help our sister tribe, but for now you must fly straight to the Earth Kingdom base to the southeast of here. General Fong will provide you with an escort to Omashu. There you'll be safe to begin your earth bending training with King Bumi."

"Appa Yipp Yipp!" Aang announces sending us all upward as Appa suddenly begins to fly.

"Say hi to Gran Gran for us!" Katara yells back as a final goodbye.