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Slow Heat	By : Spleef Category: Avatar - The Last Airbender > General Views: 77367 -:- Recommendations : 2 -:- Currently Reading : 0
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.

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Slow Heat
Epilogue Part Two – The Past Through Tomorrow
This part of the epilogue focuses a lot on Zuko and what happens in Sozun... I hope you like the exciting twists I made for the story. :D I know I had lots of fun writing it! Don't forget that after this will come the alternate ending. As always, please enjoy, and let me know what you think!
o0o0o0o
Fire Lord Zuko
Even several years after she died, I still missed Katara badly. She was the love of my life, and nothing would change that. There were nights where I would simply lay there in bed with her necklace in my hand, fingering the carved pendant. Sometimes I felt guilty for taking it off her corpse before her family took her back to the South Pole, but I had to have something of hers. I had also cut a lock of her hair when I visited her body, and sometimes stroked the soft strands or rested my head on her chest, not hearing an heartbeat and desperately wishing there was one. I had known her for a relatively short time, and sometimes cursed Agni for allowing her to die. The fact that my own sister had been punished for her deeds was a cold comfort. Her death would not bring Katara back.
Over the first few years of my reign, I immersed myself into my duties as Fire Lord. With my trusted uncle and council at my side, I guided the Fire Nation into an age of peace. Conflicts still flared up here and there, but I was prepared to deal with them, and made managing resources and maintaining peace my priority.
But I didn't mind a distraction here and there. When Ty Lee came to Sozun as part of her traveling circus, I invited them to perform at the Palace. Ty Lee was bubbly and full of energy, and her acrobatics brought a rare smile to my face.
One day, I was sitting out in one of the gardens, staring at the pond, taking a break from the meetings and Court gatherings that day, needing some peace and quiet to gather my thoughts. But then I heard footsteps approach, and looked up to see Ty Lee at the edge of the garden. She was wearing a light pink robe and matching slippers, and I smiled faintly at her choice of colors. It was a refreshing break from all the red that surrounded me. She caught me staring at her and bowed.
“Is it okay if I come in?” she called out softly. I nodded, and my guards let her pass. She sauntered along the path before stopping at the bench. “Can I sit down?” she asked. I nodded again.
“You look very... regal and lordly.” she murmured as she glanced at me. “How have things been? It's been a few years, and you almost look like a completely different person.”
“Time flies.”
“It does, doesn't it? So much has changed since... then.”
“Indeed.”
“Not much of a talker, are you?” she asked. I shrugged briefly and she smiled a little. “That's okay. You never were much of a talker. Your Uncle is the one with all the stories. But that's okay. You know what they say, still waters run deep.”
“You're never still.” I shot back dryly. She giggled softly.
“Glad to see you have a sense of humor somewhere deep down.”
“Perhaps.”
o0o0o0o
Ty Lee
Zuko was lonely, even though he wouldn't admit it. During my stay in Sozun, I did my best to be a good companion for him. His aura radiated loneliness, and it made me feel sad. He was such a nice man, a person that Azula should have been more like. Over the last three years, I heard many things said in praise of his policies or actions. What would the world have been like if Ozai had defeated the Avatar? I certainly didn't want to think about it!
I stayed out of Zuko's way, knowing that a Fire Lord had many duties. But as the days wound down, I would go and seek him, asking him to lunch or supper. He could have said no if he didn't want my company, but to my surprise and pleasure, he accepted these invitations. He didn't talk much, but I made sure to fill our time with funny stories that I had carefully selected for him, hoping to see a smile on his face. Other times I'd just be quiet. He seemed to enjoy my presence either way, and if it helped him, then I was more than happy to serve the Fire Lord.
One evening, a few days before the circus left Sozun, Mai invited me for dinner. I didn't see her much because we had different lifestyles, but we remained friends. She had become a trusted adviser to Zuko, and had done well for herself. She was a somber figure, her hair pinned back with gold pins, her body modestly covered in a high-collared black and red silk robe. She was my age and beautiful, but her clothes and expression brought about a certain severeness to her appearance that made me think of a schoolteacher.
“Hello, Mai!” I said cheerfully, wrapping my arms around her neck and hugging her tightly. We chatted a bit, though I sensed she had something on her mind. I wondered what it could possibly be, she was well-off with a position that she earned on her own, and trusted by the Fire Lord.
“I notice you've been spending a lot of time with the Fire Lord lately.” she commented before taking a sip of her tea. I shrugged, and picked up a dainty piece of sugared fruit.
“He enjoys my company. I know he is stressed out with his duties, and I help him relax.” Once in a while, Zuko would even let me give him a back-rub or a bit of point-pressure therapy. After a stressful day, he could relax under my touch. Too bad I wouldn't be here after a few more days. He was a good friend.
“Relax? How?” Mai sounded interested despite her cool demeanor. I wondered why she cared. I knew some people might gossip about the time Zuko spent with me, but we never did anything that might be considered inappropriate. Once in a while there was a servant, and always a guard in view. But people liked to gossip anyway, I know.
“I just tell him funny stories, or when he doesn't want to talk, we just sit. Or play a game of Pai Sho. Sometimes Iroh plays with me.” He was a funny man, and had a lot of great stories of his own to share with me, so sometimes it was just him and me, playing a game and chatting while Zuko went off to be alone. And Iroh had the best tea too. I knew he was sad when Jun left, but I understood her wanderlust. I was the same, that's why I joined the circus. At least, it was one of the reasons. But as long as I was here in Sozun, I'd be happy to keep them company and cheer them up.
“So... he hasn't shown any deeper interest?” Mai asked softly.
“Not at all. I wondered if he might... at first. But he never even looks at me that way.” I shrugged. “Maybe it's the novelty of hanging around with a circus performer. But whatever it is, it's entirely platonic.”
When I said that, I could swear that I saw a flicker of emotion – relief, perhaps – in her eyes, and realized why she had asked me about my time with Zuko. I remember her having a crush on him when we were little girls, but did she still feel for him, even now? Did Zuko know or suspect? What must it be like for Mai, working in such close proximity to him and having her feelings unfulfilled? Should I encourage her to express her feelings, or remain silent? I had never seen Zuko look at Mai with any more than the interest a lord had in his courtiers or advisers.
On the last day of my stay in Sozun, I went to visit Zuko. He actually looked sad. Could he be sad because of some trouble in Court or was it because I was leaving?
o0o0o0o
Fire Lord Zuko
I was disappointed to see Ty Lee go, but at the same time relieved. I hadn't done anything even remotely intimate with her, but I couldn't help but feel as if my spending so much time with her during her stay was some kind of betrayal to Katara's memory. I missed her so much, and being distracted by Ty Lee gave me momentary reprieves from the pain. I knew that one day I would need to have heirs to continue the bloodline, but it wasn't something I wanted to think about right now. I was going to spend my life with my Waterbender, and now...
Courtiers were showing me their sisters and daughters, bringing them to Court in hopes that one of them would catch my eye. I was twenty and knew that as Fire Lord, I should at least have a concubine if not a Fire Lady. But it was hard to think of intimacy without remembering Katara and what we had shared. What a fine Fire Lady she would have been. I imagined her in Imperial silks, wearing dragon or phoenix-embroidered robes, her hair done up with gold pins and combs. Why in Agni's name did I torture myself with these images and memories? Even now I still prayed for him to bring her back to me.
I heard a gentle knock on the door and looked up from my desk.
“Yes?” I called out.
“My lord, it's Mai. I have some papers for you, and I could call for tea if you like.”
“Certainly.”
She came through the door to my throne-room study with several scrolls and packets in her arms. She had proven to be a effective courtier, and it was a job she took seriously. I sat patiently as she lowered her load to the desk, briefly explaining about each one.
“While I do not question your decisions, there are a couple of things within these documents that I would like to discuss, if you're inclined to listen.”
“Go ahead.” I said. She took two of the documents and took a seat across the desk, facing me, her back straight and shoulders squared primly. Nobody could fault her for poise or decorum, even in a fight. We sat and drank tea while we discussed the two petitions she had singled out. After that, I no longer wished to talk to her. In a professional capacity, I respected her and welcomed her advice, but otherwise, I had no desire to spend time with her. So I quickly added my own signature and several additions of my own before stamping them with the Dragon Seal. In a few minutes, the ink would be dry and I'd give them to her and send her on her way. We sat there in silence for a few moments before she spoke.
“I am but a simple courtier with duties of my own, but sometimes these duties are a bit overwhelming. I can only imagine how it must be for you to bear the burden of your country's care.”
“I do my best.” I replied calmly.
“I know.” She smiled a little. “But I would like to do something for you. Perhaps dinner at my parent's house, and they're also playing 'Love Amongst the Dragons' at the Theatre Imperial. If you don't want to eat at the house, we could eat at the theater or one of the restaurants here – there's some very good ones out in the city. When was the last time you left the volcano, my lord?”
Love Amongst the Dragons. Mother had loved that play. I gave out a low sigh. I could use a day or two away from the Palace. But not with Mai.
“No. I... am very busy for the foreseeable future.” I replied. Next week, I would be going on a tour of all of the Fire Islands, meet with governors, and decide what needed to be done on each island. Despite the importance of such a task, for me it served as another distraction. Iroh would stay behind and manage things in Sozun while Kamas accompanied me. I trusted him just as much as I trusted Uncle or Jeong Jeong, and was glad to have such capable men helping me run the Fire Nation. I knew it would be hard seeing the sea so much. Every time I glimpsed at the vastness of the waters, I thought of Katara.
“Perhaps the next night, then?”
“No.” I murmured. “You can leave.” I was surprised when I saw a brief flash of pain in her eyes before she rose from her chair, bowing to me before she left. But I said nothing of it then and did not speak of it after that, though I was now aware of surreptitious glances she sent my way when we were alone, or her invitations – which I always declined. With this new dimension in our relationship, I became especially prudent in avoiding any time alone with her.
The next year, the circus came back to Sozun. Ty Lee hadn't changed one bit, and I was surprised to be so happy to see her. She gave out good massages and did her best to keep me comfortable and entertained. And even if Katara was dead, I still needed companionship, the kind that not even Uncle could provide..I felt guilty, but knew at the same time that Katara wouldn't want me to be alone. If she hadn't died, Ty Lee would have been her friend as well. So I relaxed and let myself enjoy her company for as long as she would stay in Sozun.
o0o0o0o
Ty Lee
Things hadn't changed between the Fire Lord and myself. We picked up our friendship where we has left it, and I could tell that he really was happy for my company. Sometimes we might take long walks through the garden – I had seen him in Court and could understand the need for long, quiet strolls. Sometimes I'd go with him, sometimes not. Other times I'd just rub his back and help him meditate. Being Fire Lord wasn't wasn't easy on his chakras or aura.
One lazy summer's day as we sat next to the pond, I didn't want to talk about the fact that I would be leaving the next week. Coming to the Palace was like a vacation for me. In between my performances, I could just relax with Zuko and help him relax. He was a much better friend than his sister, and he never treated me like a servant. And what was more, he enjoyed my company. Far from it for me to not help out someone in need.
I tossed a few crumbs to the turtle-ducks as he stared forward, sitting cross-legged, the bread still in his hand. His gaze was distant, and I could tell that he was thinking deeply about something... or remembering, perhaps even wishing. I had seen this a few times before, and he continued to stare forward as a turtle-duck came out of the water, waddling towards him in a daring move to snatch the bread from his hand. He was so lost in his thoughts that he did not notice, and I stifled a giggle as it tried to climb up his knee to get the food. He finally snapped out of it and stared down at the creature, eyes widening with curiosity, and I couldn't help but think of him when he was younger, when Lady Ursa was still around and everyone had been happy.
He stared at it for a moment before breaking off a piece of the bread and dropping it on the grass for the duck, a wistful, even sad expression on his face. He looked almost like a lost little boy, and I felt my heart breaking for him. I knew that he had been through a lot and that it had all affected him deeply.
“You okay?” I asked softly. He blinked and then nodded faintly.
“Yeah.” he murmured. He stared down at the turtle-duck as it chomped on the morsel of bread. He tossed another one, still with that wistful expression on his face.
“Want to talk about it?” I asked gently. He shook his head and stared at the water. I shrugged, If he didn't want to talk about it, then fine.
“Perhaps a back-rub?” I asked. He nodded, so I knelt behind him and started to rub his back.
“If you like, I can give do a meditating and massaging session with you tonight.” I said.
“Sounds good.” he murmured.
That night, his servants came to me. I expected to go outside, perhaps, or Zuko's training room. But I was surprised when I was led to what appeared to be the Fire Lord's private apartments. They were as grand as I expected, and I wondered if perhaps the Fire Lord decided to finally welcome me to his bed. I had had a couple of lovers in the circus, so I knew what it was like. But with Zuko... I admit, I thought he was cute, even with that scar, and he did have a sexy body...
There was a thick, comfortable mat in the sitting room, and Zuko instructed me to sit next to it. He lay down on the mat and I attended to him, rubbing his bare back.
“Agni blessed you with skilled hands.” he murmured as I worked out a kink in his neck. I smiled to myself. After making sure that his aura was at an optimal level, I started to get up on my feet.
“Wait. Don't go.”
“My lord?”
“Sit down.” He sounded relaxed, and didn't move from the mat. I sat down again and placed a hand on his back. He let out a quiet sigh and did not move, and I simply sat there, my palm on his back as I felt his heartbeat. I could feel his loneliness, and it made my heart hurt.
“Would you like me to spend the night?” I whispered. He was silent, and I feared that I had gone too far. But then he slowly nodded.
He handed me a light silk robe to sleep in, and when I changed, he did not look. Was he just shy? That was cute. I crawled into the large and posh bed as he used the washroom and lay there, staring up at the golden visage of Agni sculptured into the ceiling. It was a warm night so I pushed the sheet back, laying there as the deep red silk hugged the curves of my body. I would be sweet and patient with him. I would do my best to make him feel good.
But when he crawled into the bed, he had me roll over so my back was to him, and when I did that, he snuggled close, an arm draped across my middle. And after a while, his breathing became quiet and regular. His body was warm, but not in a way that bothered me like the summer heat did, and snuggling was nice. And this was actually pretty sweet, So I settled into his arms.
After that, I went to his bed every night for the remainder of my stay. Sometimes he would hold me. Other times he would have me hold him, his head resting against my chest. Not once did he ever hint at anything sexual. I'll admit that I was a bit disappointed, but he always treated me with respect. I enjoyed these nights with him. Sometimes we'd just cuddle, once in a while we might talk or play a game. We kept quiet about this, but Iroh found out and teased me about giving him a grandchild to spoil. I wasn't going to tell him what Zuko wanted from me, and never spoke of it, even after I left Sozun.

o0o0o0o
Mai
Ever since I was a little girl, I had nurtured a crush on Zuko from afar. Now, as an courtier and adviser I had much more contact with him, and was someone he listened to. But whenever Ty Lee came here, he gave all of his attention to her. They would take walks together or share meals. I don't know why he would spend so much time with her. She would be in Sozun for a few weeks and not return until the next year, but they shared a bond I couldn't understand and was envious of. I was hoping that as we grew through the rest of our teenage years, he might notice me. I certainly had tried enough times to gain his attention – the kind of attention Ty Lee got with little or no effort. I was of noble blood, intelligent, skilled, healthy, loyal, and even if I wasn't beautiful, I was at least attractive. I was a more than suitable candidate for Fire Lady, and my father even suggested the same thing.
I had dreams of myself as Fire Lady, ruling at Zuko's side, being his helpmate and adviser, praised for my wisdom and grace, and I would welcome his attentions in bed and satisfy him however often he needed. I had seen him shirtless, and admired his strength and grace. I longed for that warm body pressed against mine so I could wrap my arms and legs around him. Such dreams were often indecent, but I loved them. And I would give him children he could be proud of.
When I had been at the Boiling Rock, I thought of Zuko and prayed that I would see him again. I understood why Zuko had turned against his sister, and it was that realization that helped me to stand up for the Kyoshian girls Azula was torturing. I knew that the Princess would have a dire fate waiting for us when she saw fit to remove us from the island prison. And then Zuko killed her and ordered our release...
How good it felt to see him again! I didn't care if he had a scar on his face. He was now the Fire Lord, just as Agni had intended. And he looked so handsome sitting there in his Imperial robes. I wanted to blurt out my feelings, but it wasn't the right time. It was hard not to, because I was so overwhelmed with emotion, but I kept a stoic expression.
I had been trying for the last four years to make him notice me. I sent him lavish gifts for his birthday. I invited him to various events. At banquets, I sat as close to him as I could. I tried make-up, and even a bit of flirtation. He listened to me well enough when we spoke of Court matters, but was deaf to everything else. It would have been easy to blame this on another girl, but Zuko paid no more attention to the other Court ladies than he did me. There were even whispers that he was impotent or homosexual. I ignored such rumors.
The last time Ty Lee came to visit, I started following her around. At first, it seemed innocent enough. Walks, meditation, sometimes massaging. I was jealous that she got to touch him, but it was all apparently platonic, which actually surprised me. And then they would go off their separate ways. But then after a while, she actually started spending the night with him! The servants whispered of it, and I knew this because I had paid one of them to tell me of Palace happenings. So he was sleeping with her! All my efforts year-round, and Ty Lee had his attention whenever she came with her circus! I was nineteen and of a very marriageable age. I had turned down several suitors because I wished to remain close to Zuko! It wasn't enough that he valued me as an adviser. I wanted, needed more.
I lingered in the Palace after most of the other courtiers went home. The Palace was quiet, the common areas now virtually empty. Zuko let out an heavy sigh as he signed and stamped a document that we had been discussing for the last half hour. It was a contentious issue in Court, and Zuko and I had been discussing how to best solve the situation. If I did not have his affection, I at least had his respect.
“My lord, the Court has been cooped up all day arguing over such matters. I think it would be good for both of us if we went outside for a walk to get some fresh air and stretch out our legs.” I said, hoping he would accept my invitation.
“You're right. We do need some fresh air. Let's go.”
At first, we walked in silence, enjoying the plants and sculptures. He had his hands tucked into his sleeves, so I did not touch him. After a while, he seemed to relax, and I suggested that we might sit by the pond that was nearby. He shook his head, and I had to hold back a disappointed sigh. But I was determined to say my piece.
“My lord, I have served you for several years now. I have found it to be rewarding.”
“As have I.” he replied, but his voice was calm and neutral. “This Court needed some new blood, and you've proven yourself. The War has changed us, and the nation as well. It needs people like us to guide it.”
People like us! My heart skipped a beat. Perhaps, perhaps he was now ready for a relationship! After all, he had his Nation to deal with as well as the aftermath of the war, but now that things were quieter, he could focus on other things.
“It has not been easy. But there's a certain sort of pride that comes from knowing that you're helping and serving your country.”
“Spoken like a true patriot.” He smiled a bit. I smiled back.
“I have something to confess, Zuko.” I replied softly. He glanced at me with mild curiosity.
“What is it?”
“For a long time... I have cared about you. I have always admired and respected you, and I have enjoyed working with you.” I was unable to read the expression on his face as he stared at me. He was not smiling.
“Zuko... I love you.” There. I said it. And he continued to stare at me quietly before his eyebrow furrowed slightly. What did that mean? Was he surprised, angry, disgusted? Quickly, I approached him, placing my hand on his arm.
“Let me serve you in a greater capacity. I will do it with all my heart. Please allow me the honor.”
He started to shake his head slowly, looking away. Was he so repulsed?
“Am I so ugly?”
“No.” He turned away.
“Then what is it?”
“It is none of your concern. I appreciate your service, and would like you to remain with me in that same capacity. You are important to me.”
Capacity? Was that all?
“My lord...” I would not give up! I touched his arm and turned him to face me before I pulled him in for a fierce kiss. He was so surprised that he did not pull away for a moment, and I quickly cupped his face with my other hand, feeling his scar under my fingertips.
We broke apart with a stunned silence. Where had I gained the courage to do such a thing? But my lips still tingled from his kiss, and the smooth feel of his scar still lingered on my fingertips.
He backed away from me before he quickly turned around and stalked off.
o0o0o0o
Zuko
What Mai had done could be punishable by death if I so deemed. But I had no desire to end her life over a thing like this. I had sincerely hoped that my silent rebuff of her gestures would have deterred her, and things would remain platonic between us, a mere working relationship between a Fire Lord and his adviser. The fact was that while I knew I needed to produce an heir, but so far I hadn't found the right woman to be my child's mother. There was Ty Lee, but I didn't wish to interfere with her life, and I didn't want to take the chance that sex might ruin our relationship. And I couldn't consider Mai because I simply did not connect to her on an emotional level. Katara had been perfect, and Ty Lee was easy for me to get along with. But Mai... I was simply uncomfortable around her on a personal level. The thought of bedding Mai actually repulsed me a little.
The next day, I saw her in Court. I said nothing of what had happened. And it went on like that for several months, even when Ty Lee came back on her circus' yearly visit to Sozun.
The first night after Ty Lee had come back, I slept alone. But the next night, I invited her to my bed. And for the rest of the visit, she would visit me late at night, to cuddle with me or massage me, and keep me company. I still ached for Katara, and knew that I would always love her. But a ghost cannot love back, and I started to relax in the company of women. I tolerated Uncle's attempts to match me up with this lady or that. I needed someone to care for me and comfort me in a warm way, like Ty Lee. Already I had started looking around for a suitable match, but had found nobody yet.
So I enjoyed her company and her performances.
o0o0o0o
Ty Lee
A couple of nights before my circus would go on the move again, Mai visited me in my tent as I was preparing myself for the show. Even though I had been here for a couple of weeks already, I had barely seen Mai, almost as if she was hiding from me.
“Mai! How nice to see you! Come on in!” I rose from my seat to hug her. She did not hug back, so I backed away. We had been such good friends, and now... she was practically a stranger! She stood there in a black and red high-collared robe, her hair pulled back in an elegant bun that flattered her face. She was the kind of noblewoman I never would become – not that I wanted to. Still, her life suited her well.
“Well.” I wondered what she could be here for, if she wasn't happy to see me. “How have you been?”
“I'm not here for pleasantries.”
“I figured as much. Did I do something to make you angry?”
“You know how I feel about Zuko. Yet... you and him...”
“Oh.” I looked down. Yes, I had been aware – but I had done nothing consciously to gain his attention. I had simply been a friend, and gave him what he needed. Was it my fault we were good friends?
“That's all you can say?”
“Look, Mai... He wants my company. He asks for it. I meditate with him and massage him and help him to relieve his stress. He is the Fire Lord, and I am his humble servant.”
“Oh, is that all? A lowly servant?”
I frowned at her. “No, a friend. And that is what I am to him. I will speak no further of this.”
“What do you have that I don't? Why does he choose your company over mine?” She was controlled, but I heard an edge of pain in her tone. I remembered her crush on Zuko, and her shy glances his way. I shrugged helplessly.
“I don't know why he decides the things he does. I swear to Agni, I did not encourage or seduce him. We're not like that, honestly. I would be truly happy if he made you his Fire Lady. I cannot help his preferences.”
She sighed softly. “Why did this have to happen to me?”
“I do not know.” I reached out to hug her. This time, she hugged back.
o0o0o0o
Fire Lord Zuko
After Ty Lee left, Mai requested a private audience with me. I was in a good mood, so I granted it, figuring it would be important.
“I have a question to ask of you, my lord.” She bowed her head.
“Yes.”
“I apologize for what happened before.”
“It is forgotten.” I stated.
“I will not do it again. But I do need to ask my question... Is there any chance that you might ever... care for me?”
I let out a low sigh. “No.”
She glanced up at me for a moment. I stared down at her, and she dropped her gaze.
“Then I have a request to make, my lord.”
I could have said no – but then I thought, she would not ask if it was not important. She had worked with me long enough to know that. “I will grant you the honor of listening to it.” I replied.
“I no longer wish to work here. I feel that my capacities would be better applied elsewhere.”
“I see.” I stroked my chin. Was she now going to flee because of my rejection?
“I would always work in your best interests, my lord. This I solemnly swear. It's just...” She looked up at me.
“No. You have many abilities, and should use them to the fullest benefit.” I would let her go and treat her discreetly. It would be honorable for both of us. “If there is a particular job position you seek, let me know..” Mai actually looked a bit surprised I said all of that.
“I hear that there is a opening for Governor on one of the northern colonies.”
“Indeed.” I nodded. The current governor was getting old, and needed a new governor to train within a year. I had been thinking about who would be a suitable candidate. Several of the nobles and royal relatives had already applied for the position, but Mai had better qualifications than any of them.
“You're certain of this?” I asked. She nodded. She had already proven her wisdom here, and this would be a new opportunity for her. It was one she deserved.
“Then the position is yours. I wish you the best of luck and success. May Agni smile upon you.”
She bowed to me before she left.
o0o0o0o
Avatar Aang

Several years passed as I traveled the world, going where the wind led me. I settled disputes, oversaw the signing of treaties, and continued to explore the world, wishing to know more of it. I truly embraced the definition of 'Air Nomad'. But as the world settled down, I felt the need to. I was a young man now, but I didn't have Katara at my side. I wasn't sure what I wanted for my life. Plenty of girls chased after me, wishing for the honor of bring the Avatar's wife. I admit, sometimes I let it get a bit to my head, but I hadn't found a place to settle. I could pick one of the Temples, but living in such a huge place gets awfully lonely.
I came to Kyoshi about five years after the war. They had a feast to welcome me, and we all had fun. But at night, the elder pulled me aside and insisted that he had a serious talk to have with me.
He said that Avatar Kyoshi came to Kyoshi's priestess – in this case, Suki – in a dream and told her to tell the village to welcome the Avatar on his next visit, and make sure he stayed for a special purpose. After all, I was the last Airbender, and to restore balance to the world, there needed to be more. At this point, I knew perfectly well where babies came from, but it felt weird that this had come from a dream sent to someone else. Why hadn't Kyoshi come to me?
“Only those who have agreed to it will be doing this. And every child will be cared for. The men have agreed to raise their woman's children as their own. We have always been a strong community that takes responsibility for each child. Kyoshi brought you here so we could work together on this goal. You can continue to fulfill your Avatar duties, we will take care of everything. But nobody here will force you if you feel uncomfortable.”
I was well aware of my situation. The race would die without me. There were no other Airbenders I knew of. If any Air Monks made it out of Sozin's slaughter to produce offspring, they were still in hiding. If I died, there would most likely be no more Airbenders. As strange as the arrangement sounded, I knew what I had to do. Granted, these children would be mixed blood, but that would be better than nothing.
“I am the Avatar, and it is my responsibility to restore the world's balance.”

~Ten years ASC
(~1111)
o0o0o0o
Chit Sang
As I had planned to do before I was arrested, I asked Jiang to marry me. She said yes, and we settled down into a happy life. I helped Jiang run the tea shop, so she had more time to take care of her children.
Nearly ten years – and another son – later, I received a invitation from the Fire Lord. He needed a new Warden for the Boiling Rock, and felt that I would be the best candidate. It came with a lot of perks, but what mattered to me most was that Fire Lord Zuko saw me as worthy. Jiang's husband had run the tea-shop and it had fallen on her shoulders when he died. She had never planned to run a tea-shop on her own – though she did a admirable job – and said she would be glad to go with me wherever I wanted to go, for she was tired of the small town she lived in and wanted a new home. She sold the shop to her brother-in-law.
Having spent time in here as a prisoner gave me a understanding of the prison that the previous Warden lacked. I almost had turned down the job, but I came to enjoy it very much. Jiang gave birth to another daughter. Her daughter and our sons were all Firebenders. But our youngest child was a Waterbender, to her amazement and my shock. She had my black hair and Jiang's light brown eyes, but her skin had a slightly dusky tint to it, an apparent inheritance from her grandmother. I remembered enough of my own mother's Waterbending, as well as Katara's own, to be able to teach her the basics when she became older. She's a charming little girl, and I am happy to have a Waterbender in my family.
I decided to go and see my father. He was very old now, retired for years now. He had bought himself a small house on one of the islands. No mansions here, but it was still clear that this wasn't a community for commoners, and with his rank, he would have had a nice pension. I went to the address that had been given me and knocked on the door, noting the empty and clean courtyard. The person who opened the door was a teenager girl, her eyes downcast as she asked me who I was. A thin red silk robe covered her body.
At first I had thought it was a servant. But when she moved into the light, her slender body and the softness of her hands made it clear that she wasn't here for labor, and I tried to think of how old she might be. Fifteen, maybe sixteen. Not much younger than my mother when she had been taken prisoner by my father.
My father was little more than a husk. His thin hands were folded on his lap as he sat in a bamboo chair with a soft cushion, a cup of tea in front of him. His red-and-gold satin robe hung off bony shoulders, and his face was set in a scowl. When I was younger, my father had been so tall and powerful, his presence imposing and commanding. His step was heavy, his shoulders broad, his face set in a perpetual scowl. His face only softened when he made Mother sing for him.
Everything I remembered of my father had been stripped away, except for the scowl. That was the one thing I recognized on him. The girl drew closer, filling his tea cup and sitting aside obediently, looking pretty, her hair pulled back in a loose bun with a few flowers.
Father's eyes widened slightly as he saw me. I stood there in my full Fire Nation uniform, boots polished, pants freshly pressed, my hair and beard neatly trimmed.
“So. The prodigal son returns.” he muttered as he looked up at me. I was not disappointed. In fact, I had braced myself to not expect any sort of affection from him. He could ignore me or fly into a rage, I didn't care. I was a trusted ally of Fire Lord Zuko, running a tight ship but keeping an eye out for prisoners who might be innocent. Unlike old Wardens, I'd let prisoners plead their cases before me. And then at my discretion, I'd maintain their sentences, shorten them, or ask the Fire Lord to issue a pardon along with the reason why I felt they should be. Of course, such pardons were rare if ever used, but my job was interesting and kept me on my toes. My children were happy and healthy, and I had a loyal and loving wife who had thrived in her new environment. And what did my father have?
There were times that I thought he might have cared for Mother. But if he did care about her, honestly and truly, he would have let her go, he wouldn't have kept her chained, unhappy and homesick, forced to live in a nation and culture entirely foreign to her, one that had turned her fellow Water Tribe men into slaves and herself into a pet of a high-ranking Fire Nation soldier. And of course, he wouldn't have had the muscles in her leg cut so she wouldn't be able to run. I would never forget her weeping as she clung to me. I had done everything I could for her, but a child could only do so much.
“You can go, Akimi.” Father murmured, waving a hand. She rose to her feet and bowed out, closing the door quietly. I stared at him for a while. It had been nearly twenty years since I saw him. Now I was the one who towered over him.
“I was certain I would never see you again. I heard the Fire Lord was giving out pardons after the War ended. But you didn't tell me anything. Not even a letter. So disrespectful.”
Respect? Fuck you, old man.
“Turning people into slaves or concubines is disrespectful.” I shot back, relishing that for the first time ever, I could say and do as I damn pleased in front of my father.
“Eh, you'd rather your mother be sent to the mines?”
“What would have been better is that you let her and her Tribe companions go.” I replied calmly. “Sometimes I wondered if I was the only one who ever saw her tears.”
“I took care of her. I didn't discard her. Even when she tried to run away, I was still lenient.”
“The marks on her wrists and ankles from the chains you put her in was hardly lenient. But at least now she's in a better place. And look at you, all alone.”
“I have my servants and concubine. Don't be a fool.”
“You're the fool. Where did you get that girl from? Did you buy her off some poor family? I feel sorry for her, having to take care of a bastard like you.”
“Just because you're older now doesn't mean you can talk to your father like that!” he snarled, trying to rise from his chair, a feat that obviously required a good amount of effort on his part. With a large hand, I pushed him back down.
“I will say and do as I please. I am a grown man with a family of my own. Oh, yes, did I tell you that I have four children? Three Firebenders, and a Waterbender. My children respect me. My wife loves and cares for me. I am a trusted ally of Fire Lord Zuko. Everything I earned, I earned with my own hands and mind, and heart. You might have money and a high position in the army, but look around you! There's nobody who cares about you.” I said bluntly.
I was gratified to see a flicker of pain in his eyes. Even though I knew it was mean, I felt victorious.
“Unlike you, I understand loyalty.” I said as I looked down at him. His eyes flicked downward.
“Do you come here to mock me? I suppose you feel good to speak so poorly of your aged father.”
“I'll be honest... it does feel good to be blunt with you. There were so many times I wanted to tell you that I hated you, that I thought you were a bastard, that you were not good enough for my mother. But you know what? I'm done. I've made my point.” I turned around to leave.
“I have no son!” he roared feebly.
“I was always my mother's son, not yours.”
Nearly a year later, I received a letter informing me of my father's death. It had been written by Akimi, polite and respectful as was proper for a concubine to her master's son. My father had left me nothing, leaving what he had to Akimi. I could force Akimi out, but why would I? I wrote back, saying she could have whatever he had. I was not a greedy man.
I had come from such an unhappy family and had had a hard life, but now I was an ally and respected peer of the Fire Lord, had a warm home and a loving family, and a good job. What more could a guy ask for?
o0o0o0o
Sokka

Suki and I married and continued our respective paths. Even as we had several children, she continued as head of the Kyoshi Warriors, and I taught those who had come to learn the way of the swordsmaster.
We had two sons – Hakoda and Yoshi – and a daughter with dark skin and blue eyes. We called her Kaya after my mother. And at a young age, she revealed herself to be a Waterbender like her aunt. Hakoda liked playing with my swords and boomerangs and would follow in my footsteps, he even taught the young boys of the village a few techniques. Yoshi was more quiet and sensitive, and was good with healing, and knew that he wanted to be a doctor even when he was just a little boy.
Dad was still Chieftain at the South Pole, and I would sometimes take a trip down there and bring the kids with me. Dad really loved his grandchildren. Gran-Gran died in her sleep not long after Kaya was born. Hard to believe, but Pakku's still alive, though. Gran-Gran's death hit him hard, but he still teaches the few Waterbenders that have been born in the village since the war ended.
o0o0o0o
Toph

It bothered my parents, but I still liked traveling. My blindness was a small hindrance at times, but it wasn't anything I could not manage. They nearly went through the roof when I said that I was going to the Fire Nation. They even insisted on going with me, saying that they wanted to meet the Fire Lord themselves and see the Capitol. Valid enough reasons, so I told them they could come if they would not try to coddle me. I would do whatever I wanted, and they could explore the city and do the boring business and banquet stuff they liked.
So we went. And just like the old days, Zuko and I trained and sparred together. He had become even better, but then so had I. It was funny to hear the gardener's screams as I tore up the earth as I battled Zuko, rending rock and dirt to show off my mastery. But then I'd fix the earth for them and smooth everything out, though the flowers did some some wear and tear. Zuko thought it was funny.
Our relationship developed as we spent time together on my visit, and it concluded in a rather passionate night the day before I left Sozun. People say how 'hot' Firebenders were and Zuko was plenty enough, but I showed him that I could be just as strong as him. It was great to have a partner who was as strong-willed as I was.
We went home, nobody being the wiser. And then a couple of months later, I was pregnant. Of course, Mom and Dad freaked out. I was their only daughter. I wasn't even married! Who was the father? How could I be so irresponsible? What was I going to do with a fatherless child? And so on and so forth. I told them I would have none of it. It was their grandchild, damnit. So I carried the baby, gave birth to it, and had a servant write a letter to Zuko after I made her take a vow of secrecy.
We decided that if the child was an Earthbender, I would raise it and do as I pleased, and he would offer whatever support I needed. If the child was a Firebender – regardless of sex in either case – Zuko would take custody of it and groom it as his heir. After all, my house was noble, and a Fire Prince with the blood of Earth nobility was a bit unusual but would be accepted. By then, I had already come to care for my daughter very much and didn't want to give her up. Mom and Dad doted on her too. Adi's birth had been free of complications, and she had her sight. I prayed to the spirits that she would have my gift. And she did. I was so glad I didn't have to fight Zuko for that, I already loved her too much and hated the idea of her being sent to a foreign land. And that was that.

o0o0o0o
Aang

Kyoshi's vision proved to be successful. Several children had already been born, all of them happy and healthy. The stepfathers of these babies seemed to care for them as much as their own. The single women were supported by their parents and neighbors, for rather than be pregnant due to irresponsible behavior, they were helping the Avatar achieve a vital goal. In a way, they were merry-be-gots, but it was a solution that worked. The two eldest children had shown signs of Airbending, which gave me hope. My path was not easy and I was lonely despite all the people I knew and met. Still, I was the Avatar, and I had people who were willing to help and support me.
One day, a circus came to Kyoshi. I loved seeing circuses, and to watch someone else perform tricks in the air, even if they couldn't Bend. And Ty Lee was the star of the show. Sometimes I wondered if perhaps she had some Air blood in her. She would have made a great Air Nun, though I think she'd find their robes stifling.
She invited me to her tent after the show. Before I knew it, she had seduced me. She was just so warm and bubbly and enthusiastic, and I was used to getting offers from the Kyoshian women, and Ty Lee was more than willing. I'll say this much – she is a creative, imaginative, and enthusiastic lover, and called herself 'circus freak' with pride.
It wasn't until several years later – and a few more Airbenders for the Kyoshians – that Ty Lee's circus came back for a visit. I saw Ty Lee with a little girl with her soft brown hair and big gray eyes. She looked much like her mother, and her name even suited her – Ying-ying, 'clear reflection'.
I glanced at the child in her arms before I looked up at her and raised my eyebrow. She smiled and nodded.
Of course, at times, I was called away to resolve a dispute or oversee treaties, but when not engaged in such duties, I would train my sons and daughters to Airbend. Within several generations, there should be enough to re-establish an full temple, though being part of this village and the normal life of those who did not seclude themselves in monkhood made me wonder if I should follow all the old ways of the Air Nomads, or institute new ones for our Airbenders. I am still young yet and will be able to better decide after many years of observation and wisdom, like Guru Pathik.
After all, the Air Monks were easy to obliterate because of our lifestyle. Four temples destroyed, genocide committed in the name of power. Such a genocide must never happen again. The War had many bitter lessons to teach, and hopefully future generations will remember them.

o0o0o0o
12 Years ASC
(1113)
Fire Lord Zuko

I was pushing thirty, and Uncle kept dropping hints about an heir. I had already tried a few different women, but it was a mere fulfillment of a basic need. I couldn't find anyone I thought fit to bear my heir. That changed the day I met Kuri. She was one of Sylid's students, and a chance encounter between her and myself when I was meeting with Sylid cemented our fate. She had been warm and friendly, much like Ty Lee. I liked her a lot, and started to court her privately. We came to a suitable agreement, and lived happily in such arrangements.
Uncle was giddy from the news of Kuri's pregnancy, more so than myself. I liked Kuri, but she wasn't Katara. I wished it was my love who carried my child. Even a decade later, my heart ached for her. I still prayed to Agni to bring her back.
The months went by and Kuri gave birth to my son. She took care of him, and I was happy knowing that my heir was in good hands. Uncle also doted on his grandnephew and between the two of them, the Prince needed no nurse.

o0o0o0o
14 Years ASC
(1115)
Iroh
Having a child was what Zuko needed, yet he did not pay much attention to Kuzon, usually leaving it to me and Kuri to pay attention to the baby. My nephew never got over Katara's loss and even though he had found a suitable companion in Kuri, I could see that his heart wasn't into it. I understood all too well, having lost my wife. Despite the other lovers I had, nothing would ever make me forget my love. Even Jun, as special as she was, could not replace my wife.
I had to coax and remind Zuko to visit and play with his son. He wasn't a bad father, just... distracted and distant. I was the one to see the Prince's first steps, and smile as he toddled towards me much as my own son had, and Zuko when he was little. Kuzon looked so much like his father when he was young, with big golden eyes and fat little red cheeks. I wondered wistfully what Ursa would think of her grandson.
One night, not long before Kuzon's first birthday, I settled down for the night, a cup of hot tea in my hands. I had felt a bit tired all day, and figured that I might be coming down with something. Soothing tea was always the best remedy, and I sat in front of the fire, closing my eyes and sipping my tea.
In my dream, I saw my wife and son waiting for me. We were in a sunny field, surrounded by a lush orchard. When I was younger, I had wanted my own orchard. It was a childhood dream, one that had eventually been replaced by the realities of my duties as Fire Lord Azolon's heir. It was such a beautiful place, and my family beckoned to me. I went to them. They were radiant, in the physical prime of their lives. I looked down at my hands and realized that they were devoid of wrinkles.
“Come and join us, love.” my wife said, taking my hand into hers. “We've been waiting for you.”
“Yeah, Dad.” Lu Ten smiled. “You've earned your reward. Agni has blessed us, and he will bless you.”
“But my nephew...” Zuko would be devastated!
“Agni has plans for him too.” My wife's smile was mysterious. “He takes care of his own.”
I let her take my hand and lead me into the light.
o0o0o0o
15 Years ASC
(1116)
Zuko
Uncle's death left me numb. I stared ahead without blinking as his body burned on the imperial pyre. Near me, Kuri held a quiet Kuzon swathed in white silk robes. He stared at the fire as if he understood that he would never see his uncle again. Why had this happened? Uncle had been old, but he still had many years left! I still had my father, but that was a small consolation. When I told him about his brother's death, he shrugged and grunted. I know that Uncle had paid him visits, but Ozai was no more friendly towards him than he had to me. Every once in a while he would make a plea for freedom or some kind of concession, but I would give him none. The man responsible for my mother's demise would pay, so he remained in the darkness.
Not long after my son's first birthday, Kuri left. It was part of our agreement, and at that point I was no longer spending time with her. We had grown apart, as I knew we would inevitably. Two years later, she died in an accident. Now the entire royal family consisted of my son and myself. Everyone else – the ones who had loved me like Uncle and his wife, Lu Ten, and Mother, even Azulon, the grandsire who had turned out to care more for me than I had thought. And of course, there were the ones who had sought to destroy me or use me for their own means like Ozai and Azula. All the more I acutely missed Katara. I was the ruler of the Fire Nation, and seen as a strong and fierce but fair man. I had many supporters and advisers. There was no end to the ladies who sought my favor. I was hailed as a just and wise Fire Lord.
But none of that mattered when my bed was empty and the one I loved was lost to me. Katara's death sometimes came to me in nightmares. I would wake up panting and gasping, agonizing over the fact that I had been unable to save her. Often I would sit or lay in my bed, holding her necklace in my hand as I thought of and dreamed about our happy times. Even after all these years I could see her face as clearly as if she were laying next to me. The ache I felt when I realized the space next to me was empty was crushing, especially after I had wonderful dreams of being with her.
I walked across the marble floor to the balcony, looking out at the Palace City bathed under the light of the full moon. Katara had looked so beautiful in moonlight, her eyes glinting blue-silver while her tanned skin took on a deeper glow. I stared up at the moon, remembering the times that Katara and me sat outside, looking up at the moon and the stars. These had been the happiest days of my life, regardless of the outside circumstances. What had mattered was that we were together. I would always have the mark on my hip as a reminder of our commitment to one another.
She had loved me with all her heart, and forgave me for my flaws. She comforted me when I had been in need, and listened to me. And I was as much hers as she was mine. I wanted only her happiness and safety, and to have her at my side. She was my mate. There could never be anybody else for me, and despite our untimely separation, I knew that I would see my love again. Hopefully sooner than later, but that was impossible... or was it?
o0o0o0o

Slow Heat is over, but the story of Zuko and Katara is not.

Their awesomeness was too much for one story, so I have written a sequel to this tale, which is...

Continued in Kiss of Fire
- 34
- 35
- 36
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Slow Heat