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Kiss of Fire	By : Spleef Category: Avatar - The Last Airbender > General Views: 75165 -:- Recommendations : 2 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I do not own Avatar: The Last Airbender, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 31
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- 33
Kiss of Fire
Chapter Thirty-Two – An Elemental Reunion
o0o0o0o
Katara
As my husband stood there, all eyes riveted on him. There was no denying the strength that exuded from his form. His golden eyes spoke of his strength and determination. He would decide what happened to Enki, his men, and the Iyashii clan, and it would be the right decision. He worked hard for what he had, and he would not let others destroy what he had worked for, and rightly so. Suddenly, my mind wandered...
o0o0o0o
“Uncle insists that I will be a good Fire Lord... but I don't know if I am ready.” Zuko whispered, his shaggy mop covering much of his face as he let his head loll down. With a quick hand, I brushed aside some of that hair, coaxing him to look at me. It was only a few days before the Day of Black Sun, and the tension had reached a fever-pitch. I don't know what I'd do without Zuko to soothe my nerves. When we could, we would find private moments together, and give one another reassurance. And he needed some right now.
“Zuko... the fact that you feel nervous about it shows me that you're ready. You're aware of what will be expected of you, and the fact that it won't be easy. But you will have Uncle helping you, since he knows about Fire Nation rules and politics. And Aang will vouch for you. The Earth King will vouch for you also.”
“And so will you?” he asked softly. I smiled and nodded.
“You know it.” I whispered, leaning my head down to give him a reassuring nuzzle. “And I know that you will make an excellent Fire Lord.”
“Thank you, Tara. That means a lot to me.” he said, fixing his eyes on me. I saw the gratitude in his eyes, and the love that he had for me. A strong arm snaked around my middle, holding me tight.
o0o0o0o
I fanned myself a bit harder, feeling somewhat light-headed as I listened to the Fire Lord's proclamation.
“The heads of the Iyashii clan are to be executed at the next sunset.” Zuko started. I heard a strangled moan from Hisaki.
“You... can't. Please. I beg for mercy.” Hisaki cried out finally, falling to his knees and kowing to my husband, knocking his forehead several times on the marble floor..
“You know all the crimes you committed. You put the lives of your fellow Fire Nation citizens at risk. Three Fire Nation men are dead because of you. And many people would have died if your plan had been successful.” My husband's voice was as cold as ice. “You are undeserving of mercy. I will not be swayed. Your daughter will join you. You will serve as an example to what happens to those who would betray their Fire Lord and their fellow countrymen.”
My face was impassive as he made this declaration. Yes, death was harsh, but another War would be far harsher. I put down my fan as the wave of dizziness subsided, folding my hands in my lap. Hisaki had to be restrained by a couple of guards, and Hau was now weeping loudly.
“As for all the Iyashii properties and holdings... well, since you were all too eager to plan for the Fire Lady to be taken away, all your assets goes to her, to do with as she sees fit.”
Several of Enki's men were to be released and sent back to Omashu. Thanks to Toph Beifong's truth-sensing abilities, she could sort out which men had truly been innocent and unsuspecting pawns of the Iyashii clan or Enki, so no one would be needlessly punished. I stole a glance at Lady Beifong, her blank eyes staring ahead, her hands in her lap as she sat there primly, her daughter at her side, very much a miniature version of her mother in appearance, both of them clad in green and gold silk. I held back a soft sigh as I studied Adi for several moments.
“The men who helped Enki in his plans are also to be executed. As for you...” The Fire Lord fixed his eyes on the King of Omashu, and the King stared right back, his face twisted in an angry scowl.
“Death is too easy for you. You must live with the knowledge that you would have condemned the world to another war, and cost countless people their lives. As is my right after what you did to my wife, son, and country, I hereby strip you of all rights, titles, assets, and rank. You are no longer King of Omashu, and though I shall not punish your family, their right to the crown is now forfeit.”
A loud roar broke from Enki's throat as he lunged from his seat, and the startled guards managed to grab hold of his chains before he could move more than a few steps.
“You are hereby sentenced to life at the Boiling Rock, where you will think about your actions. Hopefully you will realize the error of your ways.” He then glanced at Enki's younger brother, who had been hoping that he would now be handed the crown. “Omashu is now part of Fire Nation, and I will decide its fate.”
“NO!” Enki yelled, again struggling against his chains.
“However... I have no interest into turning Omashu into Fire Nation land. I have no interest in wiping out Earthbenders or kicking them out of their home. Therefore, I give the crown to Adi Beifong, and her mother will act as guardian and regent until the girl comes of age. The Earth Kingdom men that are to be released have the opportunity to align themselves with her and swear themselves to her service.”
Enki glared hostilely at the girl, who appeared surprised by the huge favor which had been bestowed upon her by the Fire Lord. Toph's face was expressionless.
“And you're giving my crown to a little girl? Why?” the now deposed King demanded.
“Two reasons.” the Fire Lord stated calmly. “First, because the girl and her mother are Earthbenders, and are of more than suitable character and heritage.” he stated. Omashu would be happier under the rule of Earthbenders, and the Beifongs were of a noble house, if not actual royalty. I braced myself for Zuko's next statement.
“And because the girl is a Princess in her own right. She is my daughter.”
Hearing him say that, even though I had been warned beforehand, was painful. Two nights before, the Fire Lord seemed to have something on his mind. We had eaten dinner alone in his apartment, and the fact that the Fire Lord had told me specifically that his son was not to eat with us had alerted me to something important. But I honestly hadn't thought that he would tell me that Adi was his daughter. The girl looked so much like her mother that it was next to impossible to guess her paternity. Even though I bore no ill will to the faceless concubines that my husband had slept with in the past, it gave me an unpleasant knot in my stomach to think that my husband had once shared his bed with Lady Beifong.
Over the last week, the relationship between Toph and me had not improved. Toph and I remained civil to one another, but she still found ways to get under my skin, and other than the banquets and meetings, I had avoided her company. Though her daughter also had a direct personality, it was to a lesser degree, and I genuinely liked the girl, and so did Kuzon. Adi was pleasant and respectful to me, and she seemed genuinely happy to have another kid to play with. The two of them had played together several times, and got on well. The revelation that Zuko had sired Adi meant that she and Kuzon were siblings. At least they got along better than Toph and I did.
As expected, this announcement brought shock to those who did not know beforehand. I could only imagine how hard it was for my husband to bring the truth to light. Enki started yelling about how he would not let a spawn of the Fire Lord sit on the throne. Not that he had any say in that.
o0o0o0o
Zuko
At the dinner banquet, I sat at the head of the table, looking down at all the delegates and the representatives of the noble families who had come to Court. No doubt that the fact that Toph Beifong's daughter was mine was making a wide circuit around the city now, but it had to be done.
For too long I had kept it hidden. Previously, Toph and I had agreed that privacy was best. She had left without even telling me that she was pregnant, and it was not until a few months later that I received a letter written by her secretary informing me of the news. It had been short and simple. She did not expect or want me to take any responsibility for the child. The conception had been a surprise, something that neither of us had intended. But she intended to keep the child, and that was that. Then after her birth, another letter had come my way, informing me of a healthy baby girl. I never had a chance to be a father to the girl, but I realized that it was better for Toph and I that things remain that way. I had sent a few gifts for Adi, in an attempt to take some responsibility. Due to Toph's own immense wealth, the girl was cared for. If Uncle suspected – and I think he did – he didn't say anything.
I studied my daughter. She looked so much like her mother, only a couple of years younger than when I had first met Toph. Her eyes were as green as grass, and when she caught me looking at her, she stared back at me unflinchingly. I nodded slightly in acknowledgment before raising my wineglass. I knew that I could never be close to her, not like I had started to grow close to my son, but it was at least a start. We could have a decent friendship. I would need to talk to her later, alone.
I eyed the other guests one by one quickly, before my eyes fell on my wife and son. Kuzon was getting tired, I could tell. It had been a long day for him. When he was done eating, he could go to sleep. I then glanced at my wife. Her chin was high, her shoulders back, acting like a true Fire Lady as she held a conversation here and there with the people who sat nearby, yet I sensed an undercurrent of unhappiness. It couldn't be anything to do with Enki, for Katara had made it clear that she couldn't care less about him.
Most of the guests had retired for the evening, and the nobles had gone to their homes. I sat in the front room of my apartment, tapping my finger as I waited. Soon enough, the door opened to admit my daughter. She glanced at me and bowed respectfully before righting herself again, her hands clasped together loosely in front of her as she regarded me. This was the first time nearly a decade – or ever, that I was alone with my daughter, face-to-face. I couldn't see much of myself in her, except perhaps her poise and dignity, which reminded me of my own mother.
“Be seated.” I said softly, gesturing to the several plush chairs around the room. She glanced around with uncertainty for a few moments before settling in the chair closest to me. I was pleased with her choice. A soft sigh escaped her lips as she glanced at me, clearly unsure of what to say. Finally, she spoke.
“Thank you... for the gift. Of Omashu. But are you sure you... want to give me the crown, my lord?” she asked. I nodded slowly.
“Your mother tells me that you are intelligent and thoughtful, and that you do as well in your lessons as you do with Earthbending.” I stated. I could see for myself that she was intelligent, like my son. I couldn't help but feel proud. I had also heard that Kuzon and Adi played together, when they had time to themselves. At least they could get along as brother and sister, unlike Azula and me.
“You honor me with your praise, my lord.” she said, bowing her head.
“Can I ask you a question?” she asked, fiddling with the hem of her sleeve.
“Go ahead.”
“I... my whole life, I wondered who my sire was. Mother wouldn't tell me. I never thought it would be you... but I am happy that I now know. I hope that you will be proud of me. But I have to know... was I an accident?”
I let out a soft sigh. How did I answer that without making her feel bad for herself?
“You were a surprise.” I replied diplomatically.
“That's just a nice way of saying accident, right?” she asked bluntly. I shook my head.
“An accident is something that you don't plan for, and when it happens, you wish it never did. A surprise... is something that you didn't plan for, but are happy for when you get it.” I replied. I saw a flicker of happiness in her eyes.
“I am sorry that I was not a bigger part of your life. But the circumstances...”
“Don't worry.” Adi replied, shrugging, surprising me with her maturity. “I was fine before I found out. Mother treated me well. But I am happy to know who my father is. Thank you for... being honest.”
“Is something wrong?” I asked.
“I... when Mother and I leave, when will I be able to see you again?” There was no mistaking the sadness in her tone. I might as well be honest.
“No. I guess that... closeness would be hard, given the circumstances. But I will do my best, if you will do the same. We could write letters, if you like.” I offered. She smiled a little. I could also talk with Toph about having Adi visiting me and staying for a while here and there. She could see how a Kingdom was run by observing me, and receive lessons with Kuzon on top of spending time with her father and brother.
“I will try my best to set aside more time for you for the remainder of your stay. Does that sound good to you?” I offered. She smiled and nodded.
“I hear that you get along with Kuzon. That makes me glad.”
“I like him. He's fun to play with, though it feels a little weird now knowing that he's my brother.”
“I hope that won't stop you from spending more time with him.”
“Oh! Definitely not!” Adi replied with a firm shake of her head. I smiled faintly.
“I can see that you're tired, Adi. It's been a long day.”
“You look tired too.” she replied. I responded with a small smile of my own. She rose from her seat and bowed again. I rose from my own seat and looked down at her before pulling her in for a hug.
o0o0o0o
Katara
I sat at my desk, still thinking about the events of today as I surveyed the papers before me, which were Kamas' detailed reports on the Iyashii clan assets. It was fairly impressive, even after a substantial amount of the gold in the coffers was deducted to pay long-due taxes. I was now a wealthy woman in my own right. But honestly, I had no need for so much. I received a generous monthly allowance, which I saved most of since I was not as extravagant as many of the court ladies. But there were several people who would benefit from this new-found wealth.
First on my list was Miharaki. Out of all the noblewomen I knew, she was the closest thing to a friend I had, besides Hana. She was always cordial and respectful to me, and friendly as well. My sources told me that she did not talk about me behind my back, and I was comfortable around her. Since she had been set up by Lady Hau, it was only fitting that she get some reparations. And what was more fitting than something that had belonged to Hau's clan? I decided to give her the Iyashii townhouse and its adjoining land here in Sozun and a cash reward, so that she would have property in her own right, since she had several older brothers. This would give her independence and more choices than a woman in her position would usually have. I added the stipulation that my reward to her was to remain hers and hers only, not to be transferred to any male member of her family or the man she would marry later on.
I enjoyed the independence that my husband gave me, and figured that Miharaki should have an opportunity. I also gifted some cash to her family, as a reward for their continued support of my husband, and as seeing the money came from the Iyashii clan, it was also repayment for what the Iyashii had tried to do to them.
A bonus went to all the men who had been part of the rescue. I also saw to it that the servants who had confided in Kamas about what the Iyashiis had done also received a reward, and were offered positions in the Palace since, of course, their old employers were no longer in any positions to give jobs. Hisaki's wife had gone back to her family, along with her younger children. Karki's wife went into a nunnery. The rest of the Iyashii clan were now paupers, but would be able to support themselves if they had enough determination.
No stone was left unturned as I wrote out my orders for payments. I also bequeathed a large amount of money to Kamas for his unwavering loyalty and excellent service. Doubtless he'd try to turn it down and insist that what he already had was enough, but I wanted to make the gesture. All of my servants and guards received a bonus, and I also asked that a few gold coins be given to everyone in the entire household staff. Money also went to the Fire Temple for the Sages to use as they saw fit, and also to charity. Even after all this, the ledger revealed that I still had a large amount of money left on top of all the land holdings, for the Iyashii profited enormously from their illegal ventures. But I'd figure out what to do with the rest later.
There were a couple of other matters to take care of... but I'd worry about them tomorrow. Since my husband had not told me to stay in my apartments tonight, I went to him via the passageway. I was still feeling hurt over the fact that Zuko and Toph had once been intimate, though I remained as friendly to Adi as I had been and welcomed her to play with Kuzon. I didn't know why it should bother me so much. It was all in the past, and that's what I kept telling myself as I noticed my husband standing at the window, staring outside. I said nothing and took off my robe, sliding onto the bed in my white silk shift. If not for the quality summer-weight silk that the silkworm house was so good at making, I don't know where I would be. The silk felt cool on my skin, and the crisp linen sheets was a welcome feeling after a long, warm day.
After several long moments, Zuko turned around to look at me. I saw a soft smile on his face when he noticed what I was wearing. I was quiet as he approached the bed, looking handsome with his hair down.
“Do you have any idea how beautiful you looked in these phoenix robes?” Zuko whispered as he looked down at me after having settled down at my side.
“It was a thoughtful gift, Zuko.” I replied as he nuzzled my shoulder. “And I appreciate it very much. It's a dress that I will always cherish.” I meant it. I loved the color of the blue silk and its intricate gold threading, and the fact that my husband had thought about it for me.
“When I told the tailor that I wanted a phoenix design, I didn't think it would look that good.” he chuckled softly, his fingers now running along my arm. I said nothing, letting him touch me as he pleased. I did not move when his hand moved down to my thigh. Finally, he stopped.
“Is something wrong?” he asked softly. I held back a sigh and shook my head. Certainly he would think it silly if I voiced what I felt about what he had done with Toph.
“I'm just tired. It's been a long and stressful day.” I stated. That was the truth – at least, part of it. He continued to rub my thigh gently, though not as insistently as before.
“You don't think that the punishment I gave out was too harsh?”
“No. Not at all.” I replied with a shake of my head. Zuko, his council, and the delegates had discussed the punishments. I had been there as well to put in my feedback. The execution had not been my idea, but when I heard it and the reasoning behind it, I agreed that it was a sound decision. I stood by my husband even as Enki screamed at the court before he was dragged away. Zuko had to show the world that he was not a man to be trifled with.
“All right then.” my husband murmured as he looked down at me. “I'm just... glad it's over, you know? I don't have to see Enki's prison on our lake anymore, or listen to the guards telling me about his tantrums in there.” I let out a soft chuckle. It was no surprise to either of us that he had made quite a few attempts to escape his temporary prison, or that he had made demands to have his cell made more comfortable.
He had been provided with simple but nutritious and tasty fare, the same kind of food that our servants ate, and our servants were healthy and happy. He was given fresh clothes and clean linens for his bed. He was not abused by the guards, and in light of what he did, the amenities he had gotten seemed shockingly generous. But that was not good enough for him. He had even gone so far as to demand silk sheets, the same quality food that Zuko and I ate, and of course, a concubine. How could we not laugh at such a ridiculous demand?
And now he would be sent to the Boiling Rock. From what I understood, that place was decent, but it was not an easy ride for the prisoners. After all, it was punishment. And because of Enki's status... or former status, he would be placed in the tower, which was reserved for the more high-profile prisoners. No one had been in the Tower for years, from what Kamas had told me.
“Yeah, it's been a long wait.” I whispered as I felt him cuddle close. Though I did not mind playing the hostess to the delegates, I was eager to return to our normal routine. Though I would miss Suki, for I enjoyed spending my time with her and sparring with her.
“Good night, love.” Zuko murmured as he nuzzled the side of my neck.
o0o0o0o
Zuko
My daughter sat next to my son, dressed in green silks in sharp contrast with the dark red that Kuzon wore. I had invited her to sit with Kuzon during a meeting, so that she could start learning how to be a ruler. It was my hope that Kuzon and Adi would continue their friendship well into adulthood and that Omashu would work with the Fire Nation.
Even though I had never loved Toph, I did care for her, and I was determined to do the best for my daughter. What had happened between her mother had myself had been spontaneous. We were both lonely, with pent-up energy to spend. Even though Toph was a attractive woman dressed in soft silks and speaking in a refined manner, I still saw her as the little twelve-year-old girl who liked to play in the dirt and would pick her nose and scratch her belly and did not hesitate to get in someone's face if she felt affronted. I smiled a little at that memory.
My guests were now enjoying my hospitality, exploring the city or enjoying the gardens. The executions had been done, and Enki had been placed on the ship to the Boiling Rock, under the personal custody of Kamas and his guards for the duration of the trip. No doubt he would be deeply affronted by the presence of the half-Fire, half-Earth 'whore-son', and I knew that Kamas would take grim pleasure in the task assigned to him.
I recalled the words of Shyu, the head of the Fire Sages, from when I had first married Katara. He had told me that the stars gave out auspicious signs for Katara, and that she would bring good luck. And it had come, although in an unexpected way. I had a deep respect for Shyu, and he was a member of my Council, advising me on spiritual matters and making sure that the Fire Sages did not become corrupted again.
After the meeting was over, I looked down at my children.
“How about the three of us have lunch together?”
o0o0o0o
Katara
It was a hot day, and it made me grateful for small favors like having my feet in the cool water of the pond in my garden. Suki and her companions did the same, lifting up the hem of their green robes and soaking their feet in the water. I had come to feel comfortable around Suki enough to do this, and we had just been sparring.
“I almost wish I could come to Kyoshi with you.” I commented lightly as I splashed some cool water on my face. “The summers here are so hot! I almost think that my husband and his people are crazy to be living here!”
Suki let out a laugh as she looked at me, her eyes twinkling.
“You know, you're always welcome to come to Kyoshi. But at least the winters here are not bad.” she said. I shrugged and smiled a little.
“Sometimes I miss the snow.” I admitted as I wiggled my toes, feeling one of the koi come and nibble at them.
“Moving here took some getting used to, didn't it?” she asked softly. I nodded slowly and stared out at the pond.
“This place. It's so different from the places that I lived in before.” I replied.
“But you have a husband who loves you.” Suki responded in a frank tone. My eyes widened slightly in surprise. My husband and I were cool and formal to one another in public, always. Our warm touches and caresses were always within the privacy of our apartments. She smiled a bit at my surprise.
“I know because the look in the Fire Lord's eyes is the same as the look in my own husband's eyes when he looks at me.”
I was silent for a few moments as Suki continued smiling at me. Her smile was warm, her gaze open. My guards were well out of earshot, and my servants were fetching tea for us.
“Why don't you tell me about your husband? Is there a reason he is not here with you?”
“Someone had to stay behind, and take care of our kids. Besides, we're both leaders, and it was best to leave one behind to run things.” A soft sigh escaped her lips. “Coming here would have been hard for him. He lost his mother in a Fire Nation raid, and his sister died here during the final battle. He gets along well with your husband, but we talked about it and agreed that I would come here.”
“The father staying home to take care of the kids... Now that's something I can support!” I said with a grin. She laughed.
“But he's found his place in the world.” Suki continued on a happier note. “He's a expert swordsman, and young people from the different Nations come to him to seek training. He passed up a chance at being the Chief of the Southern Water Tribes to do this. His father was surprised, but it was important to my husband and he's helping people train and find their way, so who's complaining?” she asked. I smiled. People could still be leaders and good role models in their own way.
“Since you're leaving tomorrow, perhaps you would like a girl's night tonight? Pedicures, massages, whatever you like.” I offered. I figured the Kyoshians would enjoy this hospitality before they left on their voyage. It would not take long to call in my servants and masseurs. I could have a small banquet set up, and perhaps invite Miharaki, and a couple of the other Court ladies, and have one or two of the servants play musical instruments. Yes. It was all sounding better by the moment. I needed some female company that I was comfortable with, and was determined to enjoy it while it lasted. She smiled at me, and I smiled back.
o0o0o0o
The soft music of a pipa filtered through the balmy twilight air as I plucked a slice of orange off the tray that was offered to me. I had introduced Miharaki and two other ladies – Yi and Lan Yu - to Suki and her women, and my choices had proven well. My stepmother was also included in this 'girls night', and was enjoying the hospitality of her stepdaughter. All of them were getting along well, and Miharaki had even ventured to ask Suki about the Kyoshi lifestyle, which the warrior seemed all too glad to explain. Yi and Lan Yu's eyes were wide with curiosity and interest, and they were warm and friendly, much like Miharaki. I let out a slow sigh as I felt the soles of my feet kneaded slowly, and opened my eyes a bit to see both of Suki's companions submitting to the same treatment.
“My lady.” I heard Miharaki whisper as she knelt next to me, clad in a soft red sleeveless robe. All of us were clad in a similar way, since I had asked that these comfortable robes be provided for my guests. Even the Kyoshian women were clad in them, though Suki had asked for a long-sleeved, high-collared one, and I had obliged.
“Yes?” I murmured, tilting my head slightly in her direction.
“Thank you. For not holding what happened to you against me. I had no knowledge of it, and...” she said. I held up a hand, cutting her short.
“I know. You don't need to explain yourself.” I replied. I had not yet given her her reward, and didn't plan to do so until all the delegates were gone.
“Your wisdom and kindness knows no bounds.” she murmured, bowing and placing her forehead lightly on my hand.
“I didn't bring you here so that you could flatter me.” I said with a small smile. “I invited you here so that you could relax. Have some tea, or take a treat from the tray. If you want a massage or a pedicure, all you have to do is ask a servant. Feed the turtle-ducks or the ruby peacocks if you're inclined.”
“As you command, my lady.” Miharaki replied, lifting her dark brown eyes to me. A small, friendly smile was on her lips before she retreated from my side. I felt hands kneading my shoulders, and relaxed again. How could I complain about all the privileges that came with being Fire Lady, and the freedoms that my husband had happily bestowed upon me?
In a short while, one of my guards quickly approached, with a concerned frown on his face. I sat up and glanced at him.
“Forgive me, my lady, but Lady Beifong wishes to talk to you...”
“I don't...” I stopped myself. I was the Fire Lady, and it was my job to make sure that all our guests were comfortable. If I did not deign to listen to Lady Beifong, that would be extremely rude. Hopefully she would go away soon and I'd get back to relaxing with my companions. Before I could say anything more, said lady in question barged in, her steps long and firm. I set my jaw, already readying myself for another confrontation. I could feel the eyes of the other women on me.
“What is it, Lady Beifong?” I asked in the politest tone that I could manage. Toph was dressed in one of her silk dresses, her hair up and pinned back with small white flowers dotting the coif. Rather than respond right away, she Bended a seat out of earth next to me. My nails dug into my lap as I regarded her.
“So... having a gathering of your friends? Why wasn't I invited?” she asked. I had struggled with the decision on issuing her an invitation or not, and decided against it. I wanted a relaxing evening, and I had the feeling that Suki and my stepmother knew that there was no love lost between the Earthbender and myself. Toph's question was blunt, and though I had hoped for better, I wasn't too surprised. I decided to return her candidness.
“You don't seem to enjoy my company, and you've shown a disdain for 'girly' things, so I decided to spare you the trouble.” I replied coolly. Lady Beifong was much happier when she was outside, barefoot on the Palace grounds, clad in one of her simpler outfits. Some women didn't care for things considered feminine, just as not every man cared for fighting or weapons.
“Whoever said that I don't like you?” she responded mock sweetly, “And why wouldn't I enjoy a massage and some tea?”
“Don't lie to me, Lady Beifong.” I said, my voice soft but firm. “You have shown me a minimal amount of respect since we met, and I know that you don't like being confined in fancy silk robes or doing 'ladylike' things.
“Respect? So you want me to kiss your butt?” she asked. Spirits help me, I prayed silently.
“No. I don't want anyone doing that to me.” I responded firmly, “but I find your attitude towards me unacceptable.”
“Toph...” Suki stated warningly, starting to move towards the blind Bender.
“This is between her and me, Fan-Girl. Don't concern yourself.” the Earthbender replied. Suki blinked and frowned.
“Just leave her alone, okay?” the auburn-haired woman replied, refusing to back down.
“I don't want a fight.” I stated calmly, rising to my feet so that I stood above her. “I'm tired of you twisting my words around and making fun of me.” I had never called her out on this before. Now was the time, apparently.
“Now there's some of that backbone I was hoping to see.” she said with a smile. I bristled at this, and clenched my jaw. Backbone? She thought I had no backbone? I was praised by my husband for being a strong woman, and knew that Zuko's advisers – like Kamas, Sylid, or Jeong Jeong, respected me as I respected them. I ran the household with a firm hand, and had earned the respect and even friendship of the hard-nosed Ging Lei herself. How dare this woman insinuate that I never had shown backbone!
“How dare you come to my private garden and insult me to my face like that?” I demanded as Toph casually stood up. In periphery, I saw my guards start to close in, rallying to my defense. With a quick hand gesture, I stilled their progress, signaling them to wait.
“I dare... Sugar Queen.” she said with a small laugh.
Sugar Queen? I had never expected her to call me that, yet her tone and words were eerily familiar. Her insolent smirk was more than I could take and before I knew it, my wrist flicked up suddenly, sending a whip of water from the pond lashing at Toph and knocking her several inches to the side. A gasp came from someone – I don't know who – and Toph placed her fists up, clearly initiating a fight. Her right side was wet, the silk clinging to her skin.
As Fire Lady, I was always to be demure and collected, since I was constantly under scrutiny. I had to think about everything I did and said when I was in Court and other public gatherings. But none of that mattered now. Everyone here saw that Toph had provoked it. And I wasn't going to sit back and take it, damnit!
I grabbed her wrists, and we started wrestling, battling for dominance. The earth gathered under Toph's feet, giving her additional leverage. That was cheating, and I refused to be one-upped. With a jerk of my head, a spray of water from the pond knocked into Toph and at the same time, I jerked to my right, pulling us both toward the water. Miharaki's concerned face appeared a couple of meters away, just above Toph's shoulder, and I shook my head to indicate that she need not step in. This was between the blind Earthbender and me.
“Toph, lay off! This isn't funny!” I heard Suki say.
“Oh, you think I'm doing this for your amusement?” Toph shot back caustically, and I violently pulled at her again. She was using her Earthbending to root herself, but suddenly it shifted around her feet again, surprising her.
“So you have another Bender helping you?” Toph asked. “And here I didn't think you'd need anyone to help you.”
“You were rooting yourself to your element. I have no such advantage, so my stepmother was simply making things more even.” I replied snidely. We continued wrestling, and the combined Earth and Waterbending turned the shore of the pond into mud. I felt it squish between my toes and creep up my calves, staining the hem of my robe. Still, we fought, and I Bended the water in the mud to make Toph slip, staining her silk robes beyond recognition. But the mud was also part Earth, and I felt it shift under my feet, causing me to slip. I fell with a loud yelp, and lunged at Toph, the two of us rolling around in the slippery earth in a fight for dominance.
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Lately I notice that my reviews have dropped, and this makes me wonder if this story is any good. If you like this story, please leave me a review so that I know that my efforts are noticed and appreciated. Thank you and have a nice day.
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Kiss of Fire