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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.

Chapter List
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Slow Heat

Alternate Ending – I Will Fear No Evil, Part 2

o0o0o0o
Afternoon, 4 Days ASC
(Late September, 1101)
Katara
I spent most of the day receiving visitors and well-wishers. As soon as I said good-bye to one, another would come. Sokka visited a lot – not just to visit me, but Suki too. She and her girls had been tortured by Azula and now that I was awake, I could heal them. So I did as Sylid watched, and it was nice to meet someone who was so enthusiastic about my gift, even if he did not have it himself. And when Dad saw me, I received the fiercest hug I had ever gotten from him. I had never seen him so emotional, except when Mom died. We both actually started crying. Seeing all of my friends and their reactions to my well-being was an hugely emotional experience for me as well.
Seeing the reactions of everybody sobered me to just what had happened to me. All of these people had been worried that I might die. And now I was in the infirmary, taking care of anyone else who still had fresh wounds, and teaching Sylid what Yaguda had taught me at the North Pole. He was a Firebender, but we were all people, the only differences between us being whether or not we could Bend, and what element we could Bend if we were lucky enough to be gifted with such an ability. Many of Yaguda's teachings applied to everyone, and I was happy to share them with him as he shared his knowledge with me.
It was almost weird to think that I was right here in the heart of Fire Nation, yet I was the lover of the Fire Lord, and friends with other Firebenders. I saw here an opportunity to learn more about Zuko's culture. And I would have the chance to show these people some things of the culture that I had been born and raised in.
I only stopped my socialization when Sylid insisted that I stop and rest for lunch. My burn was healed, but four days drifting through fever and pain had still taken its toll on me. And privately, I was glad to be able to sit down and not have to answer questions.
“Hey, Katara.” I heard Aang say as he approached the table where I sat, having elected to take my lunch in the garden where I had breakfast with Zuko. Again, the menu was spicy fare – not exactly new to me after a couple of months in the Fire Islands – but this was gourmet cooking. Was this what the Fire Lord ate every day? I imagined a delectable string of courses offered to me while I sat with the Fire Lord as the Fire Lady. Goodness, I would have to be careful not to let this delicious and meticulously-prepared fare spoil me.
“Hello.” I smiled at him as he sat across the small table. “Would you like some food?” I gestured to the covered dishes.
“No, I'm not really hungry. I managed to get a few really good egg custard tarts from the kitchen.”
“If this food is any indication of royal cuisine, then I can imagine that they must have been good.”
“The best. I asked the chef for the recipe, and she said that the recipe was a secret royal one, but that she might think about it since I was the Avatar.” He grinned as I giggled softly.
“How you feeling?” he asked. I tried to not grimace at that – it was a question I had already answered many times this morning.
“You don't need to ask that question.” I reproached gently before changing the subject, “I just want to know what's been going on out there. I've been out of it for long enough, and I need to be a part of this.” I needed to know what was going on, and to take my place. Yeah, it would be nice to have a place in history, but I had fought in this war as much as anybody else had. I had done my part, and would now continue to do so.
We talked about plans and treaties, the kind of thing I would expect. But my attention was drawn away to a guard that stood in the entrance to the terrace. A good amount of time had passed, since Aang and I had continued talking well after I finished my lunch.
“Lady Katara, the Fire Lord summons you to a meeting.” the man said, bowing his head slightly. I glanced at Aang before looking back at the man and nodding. A meeting. Of course Zuko wouldn't tell the guard to summon Lady Katara for a romantic walk in the garden. I had to bite back a smile and patted Aang on the shoulder before I left with the guard. He did have a unhappy pout on his lower lip, and I did feel bad.
“I'll see you later.” I whispered before the guard took me away.
I was led through hallways and down a flight of stairs until I was led outside. Smaller buildings surrounded us as well as a few gardens. We went through a gate and I gasped softly, seeing all the lushness explode around me in the variety of flora. I wouldn't have though such a beautiful place to exist behind an whitewashed wall. It reminded me of Ember Island, and we went around a curve in the path, a scenic pond coming in view. The Fire Lord stood near the water with a loaf of bread on one hand. Several turtle-ducks waded through the water, and I smiled.
“Greetings, Lady Katara.” His tone was formal, his face neutral. I responded the same way, having already been informed by Zuko on Palace protocol and courtly habits.
“Good evening, Fire Lord Zuko. I am honored by your invitation.”
“As you should.” he replied. I saw the hint of a grin on his lips, and his slightly dry, teasing tone caused me to repress my own smile. I approached him as he waved away the guards so they maintained a distance.
“So this is what it is like, being royalty. To always have guards or servants hovering around.” I said softly as I stood at his side.
“Oh, I do get privacy. But only in my rooms. I miss Ember Island.”
“So do I.” I sighed softly.
“That doesn't mean I can't go back there, though. And of course, you'll be coming with me.”
“Looking forward to it.” I smiled at him as he broke off some of the loaf and handed it to me. I remembered Zuko telling me how he would feed the turtle-ducks with his mother, and I tossed a few crumbs to them. I had heard what happened to her, and I was loath to bring up the subject. How hard it must have been for him to learn that Ursa was dead after all these years of searching and wondering?
“You look beautiful in that dress.”
I smiled faintly as I looked up at him. “Red does suit me, huh?” I asked as I glanced down at the deep red silk.
“This shade does.” he responded with a faint smile. I knew all too well that light red clashed with my skin, but deep red was another matter altogether...
“You like how red makes my skin look?”
“Very much so.” He reached out to stroke my cheek.
“I wonder how you look in blue. I've never seen you wear that color. I bet it'd look nice on you.”
We laughed softly at that. I tried to imagine him in a fur-lined Water Tribe parka and matching gear, his thick black hair framing a face surrounded by a hood of white fur. Or just a blue tunic like Sokka wore in the warmer climes, his muscled arms gloriously bare. Or shirtless, wearing just the kind of baggy blue pants that was the norm with most Water Tribe clothing.
Spirits preserve me, I mentally scolded myself. Was that all I could think of? It was unladylike, but oh so fun.
After the bread was gone, we took a stroll through the garden. It was beautiful, and according to Zuko, entirely private. Only royal family members and their invited guests could be here. I felt his arm slip loosely around my middle, and I leaned against him, savoring the closeness of his presence as he pressed his lips to my temple. Our walk was spent in silence, but we didn't need words to express our love and comfort to one another. It was all said in the way we looked at one another, or held hands, or cuddled under the shadow of the cherry-blossom tree.
I was loath to part from him as we headed back, and sensed the same reluctance from him. Parting is sweet sorrow, after all.
“Your bedchamber has been prepared for you. Everything in there is for you to enjoy. Good night, Katara.”
“Good night.” I felt sad that this was all there was to be as we stood there, guards watching us from the entrance. I tried to think of how hard Zuko had worked to become Fire Lord. He deserved this. I shouldn't complain, but I missed the secluded days of Ember Island.
Without Zuko at my side, I almost felt lost. The Palace could comfortably house my entire village. And from the looks of it, it could also shelter the entire Foggy Swamp and Northern Tribes as well.
After spending some time with my father and brother, a female servant appeared and asked me if I would come with her. She was about ten years older than myself, and had a somewhat long face that held a slightly stern look, the kind of expression I might expect from a schoolmarm.
As we walked down the hallway, she introduced herself.
“I am Ging Lei. The Fire Lord has instructed me to attend to you personally and make sure you are comfortable.” Her tone was calm and professional. I wondered if she was just older than she looked because of her attitude. There was also something about her face that reminded me of Miss Yang, Aang's teacher when he had masqueraded as 'Kuzon'.
“You have been given use of one of the royal suites.” she explained as she led me into a part of the Palace that I had never been to before, and it was also obviously very private, as we had to pass guards to get here. I knew that most of our allies were housed in a comfortable guest wing, which was actually more like a mini-Palace of its own, attached to the main structure with several verandas and paths. This gave the its residents privacy and allowed them to enjoy the surroundings without having to deal with the traffic of courtiers. For Dad and Sokka and everyone else, it was almost like an hotel. Sokka loved the food – not surprising – and when diplomacy wasn't on the immediate agenda, there were servants waiting to keep the Fire Lord's allies comfortable and amused.
I know that most of our allies didn't ever imagine that they would have the Fire Lord as an personal ally, or be recipients of such generous hospitality. After the War, being here was almost like a vacation, something that was emphasized even more when Ging Lei opened the door to my suite. The furniture and rugs were deep red, and the upholstery was scarlet velvet. Fine paintings hung on the walls and another set of doors led to a private balcony. I was shown an elegant washroom and a beautiful bedchamber with a large fireplace in one corner. The bed was four-poster, with the canopy and sheets pulled back invitingly.
“This is amazing. I couldn't imagine anyone but a princess living here.” I said as I looked around in awe.
“This room has been home to several princesses in the past.” Ging Lei informed me as she crossed the room to an large armoire. When she opened it, I saw that it contained soft and elegant clothing. “But it's also a good room for the woman who saved the Fire Lord's life.” Without further ado she pulled out a few items and set them at the edge of the bed.
“Saved his life?” I asked. She looked up at me and nodded.
“Of course. The Sages all talk about it. How Princess Azula tried to kill her brother, and you healed him before he was able to defeat her. They saw it with their own eyes. Saving the life of the Fire Lord brings about great honor, indeed.”
I hadn't thought about that. The events in the old coronation plaza was something of a blur. I knew that I had saved Zuko's life, simple as that. What I hadn't thought about was what these Fire Sages would say about what they saw.
“The Fire Lord has declared the War over. My brothers can come home, finally. If it was Azula who had emerged from the Agni Kai victorious...” She shook her head.
“You didn't like Azula?” I asked gently as she unfolded the clothing, revealing a robe and what looked like a nightie with matching loose pants.
“I should not speak ill of the dead. But I will not hesitate to say that I am much happier serving her brother.”
I smiled a little. “That's good to know.”
A brief smile flashed across her face before she straightened herself. “Would you like me to draw you a hot bath? I can also bring you tea and something to eat, if you're hungry.”
“Sounds lovely.” It'd been a while since I had that luxury, and now someone was laying out silk pajamas for me and offering to bring meals and draw hot baths for me!
In a short time, the sound of running water met my ears before she emerged.
“Is there anything you'd like to eat in particular? And what kind of tea would you like?”
“I'm sure you know more about teas than I do, so I trust you to choose a flavor that is relaxing and soothing. And I'd like a bit of finger food, something warm to nibble on.” I said. She nodded and bowed out.
I wandered into the washroom, seeing water flow into the large tub from a pipe that led from an unseen cistern. Bottles of various oils, shampoos, and soaps sat on a ledge, along with sponges and several fluffy towels. I looked up as Ging Lei bustled in, turning off the water before she heated it up with her Firebending.
“I can wash your hair and back, if you like.” she offered. I blinked in surprise, and she curtsied.
“I did not mean to offend you. I am familiar only with Fire Nation customs.”
“You didn't offend me. Water Tribe people are just.... modest.” It was a fact that was true of most Water Tribe people. Even during the warmer days of the year, we still wore long-sleeved tunics and pants because it was still very cool in summer.
Ging Lei looked at me with curiosity. “But what about these men I saw that say clothes are just an illusion?” she asked. I smiled.
“That's the exception.” I replied. “Most of us live in the North and South Pole. It's pretty much cold all year. But they live in the swamps where it's warm and humid.”
“Cold all year? I couldn't imagine living in such a place!” she admitted. “I've heard of snow, but I've never seen it!”
“It's not as bad as you think. It's rather lovely, especially after a fresh snowfall. Everything's white, almost like a sheet of very clean paper.”
“That does sound nice.” She smiled faintly before resuming her schoolmarm-ish expression. “Would you like some tea when you bathe?”
“I don't see why not.”
She brought the tray to the side of the tub before checking the other things, glancing at the stack of towels and the bottles of oil and soap.
“Is there any kind of scent you would like?” she asked.
“I wouldn't know where to start.” I admitted with a soft laugh. There were a few scents I had come to be familiar with when I was in the Earth Kingdom, especially in Ba Sing Se. But there was a wide assortment of bottles before me, and I was overwhelmed by the luxury of my surroundings.
“Do you have something like jasmine?”
“We have better. Rubyjasmine.” She picked up a bottle and uncorked it, letting me sniff. Ooh! It did remind me of jasmine, but like a firelily, it had a warm and exotic note.
“I'll take that.” I said eagerly. She nodded and poured a bit into the bathwater, adding some more heat, causing the alluring scent of rubyjasmine to rise with the steam.
“That smells lovely.” I was eager to soak myself in the water and bask in the luxury of a hot, scented bath. Doubtless Zuko enjoyed the same luxury if not more in his own chambers. I felt a pang of sadness, painfully aware of how his new position put a new dimension on our relationship. I would like to share this bath with him, or snuggle with him in the posh bed that awaited me. I wanted to talk to him and just be with him.
I was surrounded by more luxury and comfort than I had ever known, yet I was to be denied the one thing I desired most. That must have been obvious in my expression, because she asked me what was the matter.
“Nothing. It's fine. I'll be taking my bath now. Just leave the food outside when they come up.”
“Will do, my lady.” She bowed out of the room, and I stripped of my clothing, folding the silk robe neatly and draping it across a stool. The hot water was soothing, and the scent of rubyjasmine was a wonderful complement to such a relaxing evening. I sipped the tea, trying to guess its combination of flavors as I let it sit on my tongue. My eyes moved around the room, noting the intricately-carved latticed shutters that covered the windows and a matching screen that was currently folded and propped against the wall.
Mmm. Setting the cup aside, I let my body slide into the water until it was just past my chin. I was residing in an apartment used by Princesses, and being treated like one. When I was little, I had wondered what being a princess would be like, but had never thought that it would be more than the fantasies of a child.
“Lady Katara?” I heard Ging Lei call out softly, and I peeked over the edge of the tub to see her standing by the door, respecting my privacy.
“Yes?”
“Your food is here, but it will be kept warm for whenever you're ready to come out.”
“Thank you.”
“I can wash your hair and braid it if you like.”
I paused for a moment, considering my options.
“And I will remain at your back. I will see nothing you do not wish to show.” she added, as if sensing my thoughts about privacy.
“Sure.” I replied. She stepped forward and paused at the row of bottles.
“Is there a scent you'd like?”
“I really like this rubyjasmine.”
She nodded before she chose one of the bottles and knelt behind me. After ducking my head under the water, I leaned against the side comfortably as she worked her fingers into my hair. They were strong and nimble, and I murmured softly in appreciation. It was nice to have someone else take care of my hair. Zuko had done it a couple of times when we bathed together, and I also enjoyed working my fingers into that shaggy mop of his. Today, he had his hair combed back and pulled neatly into a small topknot, and while he did look handsome, I did miss Mophead Zuko.
“If you would sit up just a bit, so I can rinse your hair.” Ging Lei said. Without thinking, I did just as she asked. I heard a soft gasp and turned my head to see her looking down at the scar on my shoulder. Feeling embarrassed, I quickly jerked away.
“My lady, I am sorry, I did not mean to offend. I was just surprised.”
“You can go now.” I whispered, looking down and blushing.
“You should not be ashamed of it. To receive a scar in battle is a mark of honor. Look at the Fire Lord, he has a mark on his face!” It was clear from her tone that she admired and respected the new Fire Lord. “I do not know about your people, but we value honor here, and marks of it. One might be born with beauty or handsomeness, but honor is earned.”
“Would a man want a girl who is marked as such?” I asked tentatively.
“A real man chooses a wife for her strength, which grows with age, not for her beauty, which fades.”
“I never thought of it that way.” I smiled softly as I relaxed.
“And remember, these marks come with stories of their own. People speak of Zuko's Agni Kai with his father. If not for that Agni Kai, then the war might still be raging on. His children and grandchildren will hear of how he stood up for his country and was unjustly exiled by Ozai, but that exile turned out to be something good for him and the Nation. And just think, you can tell your own descendants of how you saved the Fire Lord's life and helped to end the War. How glorious!”
I laughed softly, relaxing when she rinsed my hair and started to rub my shoulders gently. I didn't know this woman, and she had no reason to be here other than by Zuko's command, but her words warmed my heart.
Afterward, she retreated while I dried and dressed myself in the pajamas she set out for me. She braided my hair before I ate my dumplings, delighting in the fact that some of them were spicy while the others were sweet, providing a delightful bedtime snack.
After ensuring that I was comfortable for the night and telling me that all I had to do was tug a certain rope that hung from the wall if I needed something during the night, she retreated. I lay there in the comfortable bed, staring up at the ceiling as I listened to the heavy silence. I couldn't sleep, so I climbed out of bed and went to the balcony, looking outside. The view was glorious, revealing much of the mini-city that existed within the volcano walls. Zuko must me so glad to be home, I thought wistfully as I studied the array of buildings, streets, paths, and gardens before me.
Despite the beauty of the surroundings, I felt alone. I had spent some time with my family in the guest wing, visiting with others as well, like Haru and Chit Sang. I wished I had been assigned there, so I could spend the nights with my family and friends, instead of being up here all by myself. Ging Lei had made it clear that I was put here because of what I had done for Zuko. The woman who saved the Fire Lord's life deserved the best, she said, so it was no surprise that I was put here, to be pampered and petted. She had offered to have more servants brought up if I wanted a pedicure, massage, entertainment, or anything else I desired. Would Zuko be offended if I asked to be moved in with my family and friends tomorrow?
I knew that this isolation was a taste of what would come if I were to remain here with Zuko. It was one thing to be here as a guest, but could I handle life here, separated from the people I loved, prevented from forming normal relationships due to such an elevated position? And children... I would not be able to raise them as I could in my village. The life of a Prince or Princess, despite the comforts offered, had its own trials.
I almost wished that Zuko wasn't Fire Lord. You're being selfish. He's worked so hard for so long. And you know he will be a wonderful Fire Lord.
I heard the rustle of robes and soft footsteps behind me, and thought it might be Ging Lei, so I turned around. I gasped softly when I saw Zuko, standing there in a comfortable robe, his hair down in that rumpled way I liked so much. Without saying a word, he raised his arms to offer me a hug. I dashed into them, feeling him wrap me in a tight embrace. I savored all of him – his presence, his scent, the feel of his body against mine.
“Zuko...” I wrapped my arms around his middle.
“Tara.” I felt him nuzzle the top of my head.
“I missed you.”
“I missed you more.” he shot back gently, and I looked up to see his loving and warm expression.
“I thought I was stuck here by myself.”
“Agni forbid.” he murmured before nuzzling me again. “How could I let you spend your nights alone? Or be alone myself?”
“How did you...”
“This Palace has secret passages built in it in case of invasion or emergencies. Of course, these passages also come in handy for letting me sneak over to the woman I love.”
“Oh, Zu...” I chuckled softly before squeezing him close, relishing the warmth of his body.
“Come to bed.” His voice was soft, and I let him lead me as he took my hand. We settled into the bed, and I snuggled close, content in the knowledge that even if he wasn't mine to enjoy alone during the day, I could at least have the nights. I rested my head against his shoulder, feeling him stroke my hair.
I kept my eyes closed as he ran his fingers along my face and throat, almost like a blind man exploring. His touch was loving and reverent, and when he ran a finger along my lips, I kissed it.
His hand continued along my collarbone before slipping under the collar of my shirt, and I stiffened when his fingers slid up my shoulder and across it.
“It's okay, Tara.” His lips pressed against my forehead as he sought out my scar. I opened my eyes when I felt him start to tug the silken top open. I started to sit up, but he held onto me. I started to tremble as he pushed the garment down my shoulder.
“Why are you shivering like that?” he asked with concern, gazing down at me with worry evident in his features.
“I remember my fight with Azula... and being hit before everything went dark.”
“She's gone. You have nothing to be afraid of.”
“I know, but...” I started to pull away.
“Are you afraid of how it looks? That I might be repulsed?”
I remembered the looks of concern and pity on Kuki, Sylid, and Aang's faces, and the surprise on Ging Lei's.
“I'm just tired of the attention my scar's getting. Everyone keeps asking me how I feel and all that.”
“That's because you have a lot of people who care about you.” He touched my face, stroking it gently. I nodded slowly. I was lucky to have so many friends. “I won't ask how you feel.”
“Good.” I smiled at him before submitting to his exploration. He ran his fingers around the edges of the scar before placing kisses along it.
“You're the most beautiful woman in the world.” he whispered, nuzzling the side of my neck.
“You know how to make a girl feel good.”
“I'd hope so.” he replied dryly, and we laughed together. I fell asleep with his arms around me, and woke up in the morning with some loving attention from him. Being like this made it easy for me to forget the outside world and the fact that Zuko was now Fire Lord. Here, it was just the two of us, taking comfort from one another's presence and sharing some love and affection.
However, he pulled away after a while, regret in his eyes as he glanced down at me.
“I need to return to my room before the servants notice I am missing.”
“Imagine that, the Fire Lord having a curfew.” I teased.
“Don't worry. I'll be back tonight.” he promised.
“I'm counting on it.” I replied. He rewarded me with a searing and passionate kiss before he left, leaving me with a pleasant memory that lingered all day as I went about in my duty as one of the newly-appointed ambassadors to the Water Tribes.
o0o0o0o
Two Weeks ASC
(Early October, 1101)
Zuko
Gradually, the pace of things slowed down as treaties and alliances were negotiated and agreed upon. I returned parts of the Earth Kingdom that had been taken in the War, including Omashu. However, I kept some of the lands, where Fire Colonies had already been well-established. It was not safe or wise to keep my people confined to a group of islands.
The Water Tribes also gained some new territory when I granted them some land along the north and south shores of the Great Continent, as well as some of the area surrounding the Foggy Swamp, so that tribe didn't have to confine itself to the swamplands.
Naturally, there were some courtiers who thought that by returning some land to the Earth Kingdoms and granting some to the Water Tribes, I was betraying my country and Sozin's legacy. It saddened me that there were those who still held such an attitude, but it was also sobering to think that when I was little, I had felt this way, not truly understanding the War and simply believing all the propaganda that was fed to me.
Anytime one of the nobles would come and complain to me about this or that, I would curtly dismiss them and tell them to go talk to one of our allies. It was satisfying to sign decrees and hold the Dragon Seal – the same seal used by my ancestors – in my hand and use it to stamp these documents. My word was law. No more raids. No more fighting. Acts of aggression was now illegal. Uncle and Kamas were helping me with a new military code. And I used the expertise of my allies as well as courtiers who had proved themselves trustworthy to make decisions regarding other facets of the government. It was hard but satisfying work.
And at nights, I would use the passageway to sneak over to Katara's room. After these long days, it felt wonderful to feel her cuddling up to me, or rubbing my back. We would sometimes just talk or play a game while at other times we would lose ourselves in the heat of passion, making sure to keep quiet so the servants or guards wouldn't hear us.
One day, a couple of weeks after I became Fire Lord, Uncle asked me to sit with him and talk. The expression on his face told me that he had something serious to discuss, and I wondered what it might be.
“Soon enough, it will be time for our allies to return to their homelands.”
“Of course.” I nodded slowly. I liked having this variety of characters here, it was nice to not always be surrounded by Fire Nation courtiers and citizens. Just a few would be staying, like Chit Sang, or Mai and Ty Lee, who had just been released from the Boiling Rock. I wondered why Uncle was bringing up the subject.
“I know you don't want to hear this, but you need to let Katara go with her family.”
I let out a slow sigh, not wishing to contemplate that. Deep down inside, I knew it had to happen, but it was a subject I steadfastly avoided thinking about between my days at Court and my nights with Katara. I also didn't want to think about the fact that she would also be traveling with the Avatar while I was stuck here. Aang had behaved himself here, I'll give him credit for that. We were on civil terms and got along with one another, and never spoke of the subject of our feelings regarding the Waterbender.
“Don't look so downcast, nephew. You two are young and have plenty of time ahead of you...”
“I almost lost her once.” I replied heatedly. What if something were to happen to her abroad? He nodded slowly, apparently having anticipated my saying this. All I wanted to do was keep her right here with me, where there were guards to keep her safe. She could remain as my ambassador – it was not unheard of for foreign representatives to take up residence so that their talents could be used on a more permanent basis.
“I know. And I certainly don't blame you for wanting to have her here. I'd be tempted to do the same thing if I were you.” He smiled to himself, doubtless thinking of Jun. “But believe me when I say this would be good for both of you. When I was young and still married, I missed my wife terribly whenever I was abroad with the military. It made me appreciate her all the more whenever I came home.”
“Hmm.” I crossed my arms, not wanting to think about how long Katara might be gone.
“You both need this. Wait a year or two before you ask her to marry you.”
“I was going to wait before I asked for her hand in marriage.” I already had plans to offer Hakoda and Sokka lavish gifts. Of course, it didn't hurt that Sokka already supported the match.
“Oh, that's good.” He smiled approvingly. “But you still need to let her go, at least for a while. She will want to see her village and be with her family.”
“Of course.” I knew and understood, and would not begrudge Katara that. That didn't make it easy to accept, though. What would I do during the nights? She would be at the other side of the world! “I want to decree that she will stay.” I muttered. It was tempting to have her as my 'captive'. But I knew that wouldn't be right. Doing the right thing wasn't always easy, as I knew all too well.
“Deep down inside, you know this will be good for the relationship.” He smiled knowingly as he sipped his tea.
“Is there a time you're ever not right?” I groused.
“You should know the answer to that.” he responded cheerfully. I smirked faintly.
o0o0o0o
3 Weeks ASC
(Mid-October 1101)
Katara
I sighed quietly as I folded a few pieces of clothing that I would be taking with me. The time had seemed to fly by so quickly. Some of the Earth Kingdom and Water Tribe men had already left, to return to their homes with news, treaties, and gifts. I would be going to the South Pole with Dad and Sokka. Behind me, Ging Lei was bustling around, instructing a pair of servants as they packed my luggage.
I was excited to go back to the South and see what Pakku had done to help rebuild it before he had gone to the White Lotus. He would also be accompanying us. After seeing the grand city of the Northern Water Tribe, I was eager to see the South and help it. There would be no more raids or attacks, and the Fire Lord was giving my father a boat filled with supplies for our people.
But oh spirits, how I would miss Zuko. The thought made my eyes water.
“What's wrong, my lady?” I heard Ging Lei ask with concern.
“Oh... it's just that this is such a beautiful place. I've had so much fun here. I'm excited to be going home, but I will never forget my time here.”
“You're always welcome back here. I'll keep this room for you.” She gave me one of her rare smiles. There was no doubt that I would be coming back here, but I merely nodded, not wishing to reveal too much. Zuko and I had been discreet, acting like the Fire Lord and Ambassador during the day, nothing more. We had observed all the correct behavior.
“I'll miss you too.” I admitted. While she wasn't the only servant to attend to me during my time here, she was basically the one in charge of seeing that I was taken care of, often attending to me personally. I was surprised when she pulled me in for a hug, and I hugged back. Despite her aloof and reserved manner, she did have her warm moments. And her resemblance to Miss Yang was no coincidence – after a casually asked question from me, she revealed that the schoolteacher was her aunt. Small world, indeed!
There were lots of other people I would miss. Iroh, Jun, Chit Sang, Ty Lee... Before my adventures with Aang, I never would have imagined that I'd have one friend in the Fire Nation, let alone a whole handful.
It was a beautiful day when we left for the South Pole. The sun was shining and there was not a single cloud in the day, with a cool breeze to keep us comfortable. I stood on the dock with my family, all of us saying our goodbyes to our friends. Dad had taken a liking to Zuko – thank the spirits – and I watched as they spoke and bowed to one another, one leader to another. After Dad started for the ship, Zuko turned toward me. I felt my heart pound in my chest as we gazed at one another. We had already said our goodbyes this morning and had a long talk about what we would do. It was not easy, believe me. I wanted to stay with him, he wanted me to stay with him, and I cried as I thought of being parted from him.
“May the spirits bless your journey and keep you safe.” the Fire Lord stated as he bowed to me. I approached several steps, bringing us closer together.
“May Agni smile upon you and your rule.” I responded, smiling faintly as I bowed back. I raised my hand, touching my chest. I would always bear his mark, just as he bore mine. He nodded, brushing his hip in a seemingly casual gesture.
I love you, I mouthed.
I love you too, Tara. His gaze was both loving and sad, and I felt a pang of intense emotion that nearly took my breath away. I ached to fling myself at him and wrap my arms around him.
Hesitantly, I turned away from him, walking down the dock towards the ramp that would take me into the ship. When I reached the top of the ramp, I turned back, waving at the group on the dock. Iroh smiled cheerfully and waved, and Zuko stared at me, waving slowly. Jun and Chit Sang smiled and waved back.
The ramp closed behind me, and I went to the deck, where everyone else was standing. I went over to the railing, staring down at Zuko as the engines hummed to life, slowly pulling the ship away from the dock. I felt tears burn behind my eyes as I waved again, I was not the only one waving. Sokka was waving, as well as Suki and the Kyoshians. Even Aang was waving. I ran over to the very front of the ship, wishing to delay my separation from the one I loved. He looked so handsome, standing there in red and gold robes, his shoulders squared and his chin raised, looking every bit the Fire Lord that he was. Amidst the calls and chatter of good-byes and shouted wishes of good luck, I stared at Zuko, deaf to all the voices of those around me. I had to resist the temptation to just jump off the ship and swim back to Zuko.
Parting is sweet sorrow.
As the ship turned and pulled out to sea, I started crying. I couldn't help myself, and felt strong arms wrapped around me.
“It'll be okay.” Sokka murmured, hugging me tightly. Before, I had been so worried that Sokka wouldn't want me to be with Zuko, so his support meant the world to me.
“You're so lucky. You get to take Suki with you.” I whispered, smiling faintly. I wasn't angry or jealous, though I did feel a bit envious that I didn't get to take Zuko with me.
“Only as far as Kyoshi, at least.” he replied while he nodded sympathetically. I laughed softly and nodded. Zuko and I had been inseparable for several months, so it would be strange being parted from him for at least that long.
As we passed through the Gates of Azulon, people started to disperse, going into their cabins or below. I remained at the mast, feeling the ocean breeze blow through my hair as I inhaled deeply, thinking about the events that had brought us here. Even now, I almost couldn't believe the War was over.
“Hey.” I turned around as I heard Aang's quiet voice.
“Hey, yourself.” Over our time in Sozun, we had avoided the subject of Zuko, and concentrated on our friendship. We would spend time together in the gardens when not working on affairs of state, play games, or even take rides on Appa around the island. Sometimes it had been just the two of us, other times we would take others with us, smiling at their awe as they saw the island from Appa's back. I could sense that he wanted to talk about what had happened between us and Zuko, but thankfully, he had not spoken of it. It had been much like it was in the beginning, when he had shown me penguin-sledding and other delights.
“I can't wait to see your village. I bet it'll look great now.” he said as he stood at my side, leaning against the railing. I grinned and nodded.
“We can always go penguin-sledding.” I reminded him. We both laughed at the fond memory.
“How long are you going to stay at the South?”
“... I don't know.” I shrugged. It was a given that I would stay there through the winter. I didn't look forward to the long winter nights without Zuko, but my family and village was important too. As much as I loved Zuko, I couldn't let my need for him eclipse the other people in my life, the ones who cared for me too. “I'll stay through the winter and spend my time with my family and help rebuild the village.”
“You wouldn't mind if I stayed? I mean, in the village.”
“Of course not.” Aang didn't have a home of his own. His people were dead. “But I hope that you will also see the world.”
“Oh, of course. It's just that after all the traveling, I'd like a place to stay for a while. If there's any trouble, then I'll respond. But for now... I'm just tired. I've been through a lot, well, all of us have been, and I'd just like a home. You know?”
“Of course.” I draped an arm across his shoulders, giving him a reassuring squeeze. “There's no place like home, huh?”
“Definitely.”
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