Toph's instructing abilities come into question when Aang cannot seem to overcome a block that keeps him from earthbending. Sokka gets himself in a jam while befriending what was, moments before, his next meal, and Iroh and Zuko begin training utilizing new philosophies and methods that originate from the other elements. Can Aang learn earthbending or did the world get an avatar who cannot master the four elements?

Aang searches for Appa, while Katara struggles to keep everyone together so they can survive in the vast desert while Sokka begins acting crazy because of Cactus juice in the desert. Meanwhile, Iroh and Zuko seek help from an ancient secret society. Will Aang find his furry friend, and will they all be able to make it out of the desert?