Adult-FanFiction.org : Cartoons

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

Chapter List
- 4
- 5
- 6
Kiss of Fire

Chapter Five – Into the Fire We Go

o0o0o0o
Katara

To my dismay, the person who laid his hand on my shoulder was one of the Fire Lord’s guards. Seeing the Fire Nation armor caused me to panic, and I tried to fight, but he pinned my arms to my sides before he dragged me back inside.
I demanded that he let me go, but he kept a firm hold on me. Another guard came and closed the back door and I snarled, kicking at the man that held me.
“Our job is to keep you safe and make sure you do not leave, my lady.” the other guard stated calmly. I glared at him.
“We have no wish to restrain you, but we have been given leave to do so if you continue to struggle.”
“You cannot be serious!”
“We are, my lady. We will not hurt you but if we must restrain you, then we will. The Fire Lord has made his decision and we shall obey him.”
The man holding me slowly let me go, and I stood there for a few moments. Both of the guards stared at me and I stared right back at the one in front of me before I crossed my arms.
“This is not fair that you are holding me hostage.” I muttered.
“We have our orders and will fulfill them. You will stay here.” the man behind me said, his tone firm but not unkind. I did not like the helmets they wore – for I could not see their faces. It seemingly detached them from humanity and made their presence more impersonal. They had not been violent, or made any threats towards anyone in the household, but the servants were unnerved by them nonetheless. I also hated that the servants looked at me with pity. They knew why the guards were there, and they also knew that I was unhappy.
When I moved to the kitchen area to make myself some tea, one of them followed me.
“Leave me alone.” I said peevishly as I moved through the semidarkness. I was certain that at least a couple of the servants had been woken by my yelling, and it seemed that they wanted to give me some dignity by giving me space. I didn’t care, as I could prepare my own food if I had to. I was by no means spoiled or helpless.
I suddenly bolted for it again and was caught before I made it outside. I let out a long string of curses at the man that held me and tried to kick at him.
“Perhaps we can keep her in her room until the Fire Lord comes to take her.” the other man suggested.
“Don’t you dare!” I screamed.
“If you keep trying to run away, we will.” the other guard replied in a deadpan tone.
“Please stop harassing my daughter.” my father said as he came down the stairs, looking at the guards, then at me with concern.
“Sir, she was trying to escape. We have our orders to keep her here.”
“I know, I know.” my father said wearily, “At least put her down.”
I was released and made the way to my bedroom. Not surprisingly, when I looked out the window, I saw a guard out in the garden.
The next morning, my father had the chef make me a special breakfast, with my favorite foods in his loving attempt to make me feel better. I say attempt because I felt worse now than before. I liked having breakfast with my parents. It was something we always did when my father was home. What would meals be like as Fire Lady? I imagined lavish meals, the table covered with all kinds of delicacies and servants to wait on me hand and foot. Yet despite the luxury, I imagined there would be no warmth as my parents and I shared at meals.
Three days now and then I would head on to a new life unless I found a way out. I was watched more closely and found it unnerving. I was not even able to concentrate, as being watched ruined my concentration. It was hard to enjoy the pleasure of gardening with An Mei. I wanted to take a walk through Omashu and browse through the markets. It could take my mind off even though I had no interest to actually buy something. Unfortunately, I was not allowed to leave.
The only place where I had real privacy was in my room. I knew that I was supposed to pack, but I had no heart to. I was told that I could take my books and whatever other trinkets I wanted. I was also to take clothes, although I would be provided with a new wardrobe at my new home.
I looked at the scrolls and tapestries on the walls. Several had been painted by An Mei. She was by her own words not an expert artist – she was rather humble about her accomplishments – but I thought she did beautiful work with a brush and I enjoyed her art. Her paintings also hung in several other places in the house and she had been complimented for them, and even sold some of her work to others. Many of the other hangings in my room were from the Water Tribe. How would they look on the walls of my new room?
I declined to have lunch with An Mei and had tea brought up to my room. I spent most of the day like this, reading, staring out the window, gazing at the walls and flowers and everything else that grew before me.
The Fire Lord did not come by that day. I was both relieved and disappointed. I found myself wanting his touch and kisses and at the same time I wanted to lash out at him and grab him my his shoulders and give him a good shake. Then he surprised me with a gesture that came to mean a lot to me.

o0o0o0o
Zuko

I thought about the coronation Katara would eventually have. How often had I imagined her in the Phoenix Robes that every Fire Lady wore at her coronation? But when it came to the wedding itself, I know Katara wanted a private one, with our family and friends. And personally, I agreed with her. I wanted our ceremony to have a more personal meaning, instead of being gawked at by a throng of virtual strangers.
After corresponding with her father, I made my plan. The next day, I came to the house dressed in one of my fine robes, though I made sure to not dress overly formal. I met her father in the house and we walked out to the garden. There was a low table set up by the pond, and Katara sat at one side of it, her hands folded in her lap, a deep blue and indigo satin robe encasing her slim body. Her hair was pulled back and pinned with several silver pins and combs, and there was a white lily behind her ear.
“Hello.” I said softly as I sat across from her on the cushion that had been provided. She nodded as she looked at me. Her eyes were filled with expectation. She knew what was going to happen, I had told her father to be honest with her.
“I thought that you might like this arrangement better. Just us... in peace and quiet.” I explained. She nodded. I was tempted to bring up her escape attempt, which of course I had been promptly informed of almost as soon as it happened.
“I was surprised when Dad told me. But I would actually like this better. If I have to be married to you, I would rather do it this way.”
I decided to ignore the subtle barb, and waved my hand, signaling a servant to bring us some tea. I knew her parents were watching us from a window. It was set on the table and the servant quickly retreated. I poured tea for both of us. It was jasmine chai, one of my favorites and something I thought would be nice for this occasion. She took her cup and took several sips, making a small sound of approval.
“I suppose I should be lucky that I at least got to meet you before marrying you.” she said dryly as she set down her cup. “I know in then past some girls didn't meet their husbands until their wedding day or saw their faces until the wedding night.”
“I know this is not how you imagined your wedding, but I cannot help my feelings for you.”
“I've heard the myths of how a couple falls into love with one another at first sight and the man sweeps the woman off her feet to some beautiful palace where they live to the end of their days, or forever. But I must be honest, I don't believe in that. I feel you need to get to know someone a lot better to love them, just looking at them isn't enough.”
“I agree.” I said. She glanced at me with curiosity.
“You seemed pretty taken with me the first night.”
I paused, wondering if I should tell her the whole story. Would she believe it, or dismiss it as the ramblings of a infatuated madman?
“I don't think that 'taken' was all mine.” I reminded her with a small smirk. She quickly looked down.
“I was approached by a King. I hardly think there's any girl who wouldn't be the least bit flattered about that.” she retorted evenly.
“I think it was more than that.”
She looked back at me challengingly. I smirked more widely.
“Give me the chance to prove it.” I said. “You have my word that my devotion to you will never wane.”
“So you say.”
Without a word, I rose from the table, taking her hand and leading her to the shore of the pond, several steps away.
“This is not easy for me.” I admitted as I looked down at her. “I wish I had more time to show you. To court you. But I am a stranger in a strange land, and the King of Omashu does not want me here.”
“He has made that much clear.” Katara muttered. “He will not be happy about this.”
“I don't care about what he wants.”
“What about what I want?” she shot back. Dear Agni, she had to ask a hard question! I was unable to answer right away, and she used this silence to continue, “You say you're a man of honor and that you love me, but this...” She shook her head as she took a step back.
“It's not that I don't care about what you want.” I answered honestly. Damnit, what could I say to reassure her, to make her feel more comfortable? “What if...” I paused, an idea coming to me. “What if, at the end of the first year of our marriage, if you are so unsatisfied, I annul the marriage and let you go?” it was a gamble, but I was confident that at the end of a year's time, she would feel the bond we shared.
“... Seriously?” She cocked her head to one side. I nodded. She stroked her chin for several moments, clearly thinking about it.
“But it is different for a woman. You would still be very marriageable. Me, on the other hand... leaving a husband, much less a Fire Lord... people would talk.”
“I would take all the blame.” I offered. “I would even make a public announcement, and ensure that your reputation is protected. I would give you a cash settlement and one of my estates, and you would be able to establish a nice life for yourself. You could even have a whole island, if you want.”
“Just like that?” she asked.
“Just like that.” I responded evenly. “Please, give me this chance to prove myself.” I said in a softer tone, taking her hands and squeezing them, staring into her eyes, hoping that with that, I could stir the memories of the love and passion we shared.
“Huh.” She stared at me for a few moments, and I swear I saw a flash of remembrance within her gaze. I squeezed one more time before she nodded. “It's a deal.”
She pulled her hands out of mine before offering one for a handshake. I smiled at her and grasped it, shaking it.

o0o0o0o
Katara

The marriage contract signed, I felt a lot better knowing that Zuko had given me an out. How would the year be? At the end, would I wish to stay with him? He had told me that we would not need to consummate our marriage tonight. How long would I be able to hold him off? With the way his kisses and touches felt, how would intimacy with him feel?
Before I went to bed that night, my father came to speak with me. I sat in front of my mirror, staring at my reflection despondently. I imagined myself in Fire Nation garb and found the image to be unsettling.
“Everything will work out.” I heard my father’s voice say, and I looked up. He was standing just inside of the doorway, looking at me with concern. I sighed softly, fighting back tears. Yes, I was still nervous and afraid of going to a new life, regardless of the terms of my contract. I found myself in his arms. I laid my head on his shoulder and felt his embrace grow a little tighter.
“I’m scared.” I whispered. He nodded.
“It will be okay. The Fire Lord is a good man, I can tell. If anything, at least he will treat you well.”
I bit back my tears although I could feel them brimming, waiting to break free.
“I’m going to miss you and An Mei and the rest of the family and home!” I sobbed.
“We will all miss you. We will never forget you. We will write letters. I will have your cousins write you letters too. We will visit.”
I sighed and nodded. An Mei had several siblings, and they all lived here in Omashu and had offspring of their own. Many were the days that we would all romp through the gardens, or through Omashu. I had no siblings of my own and they were wonderful companions to a lonely child. We had our share of tiffs, as all children do, but they made me feel like part of their family and I could not begin to count the times we had fun together.
“Give this a chance. Since he is so determined to have you, at least make the best of it. See how your new life goes before you condemn it. I know you do not want to do this, and I do not want to see you unhappy, but…” he sighed and I nodded. I had not told my father about the 'out' that Zuko had given me.
“If he does turn out to be cruel or abusive, let me know and I will step in. But I honestly do not think it will ever come to that.” he added. I nodded again.
“Good night and sweet dreams.” he said as he hugged me again. It became even more difficult to hold back my tears, but I managed.
“I am having the chef make us a special breakfast the morning of your departure. I will spend some time with you before…it is time.” he added. I smiled at him. After he left I started packing, feeling a bit comforted by his words. I put all of my clothes away except for a couple of changes I would need for the next few days.
“Miumi?” An Mei called out softly as she stood in the doorway. I looked up and nodded, noticing she had a slim book in one hand, tucked against her hip. I wondered what it could be.
“May I sit on your bed?” she asked. I gestured in positive response. The tone of her voice was serious, one that I rarely heard. She had spoken like this when she told me of a woman’s time of the month, and also of the eel that sought the moist cavern. I wondered what else was to be revealed to me. I read a lot and was fairly knowledgeable, and I could not imagine what would be told to me. Weren’t the secrets of the cycle and of what happened between two people the most intimate secrets that women knew?
“Come and sit with me, sweetie.” she asked. I obeyed.
“I am sure that you know what the Fire Lord expects of you.” she said, getting right down to business and I blushed. She could be very upfront sometimes.
Of course I knew what husbands and wives did to each other. When I had first learned about it I had been disturbed at first, wondering why a woman would let a man do that to her. But I now understood what it was and why it was done. To her credit, my stepmother made sure I was not ignorant and I would always be thankful for that, and I was always able to ask her questions. She was the one who showed me how to keep myself clean and comfortable during my bleeding, what to do after relations, herbs that could be used for this or that among other things.
“We already had this talk, An Mei.” I said softly as I looked up at her, “I know what he wants from me.”
“I know you know about what happens between a man and a woman. But there is more.” she said as she ran her fingers along the book.
“What do you mean?” I asked suspiciously.
“There are many ways for a man and a woman to share pleasure.” An Mei said as she slid the book into my hands. I took a curious glance at its contents and quickly closed it. It was a pillow-book, and I glimpsed pornographic illustrations. I had never seen such salacious material and wondered how this prim and proper wife had come by it.
“No.” I said quickly. My plan was to simply lay back and let him have me. Even though I was resigned to going with the Fire Lord, part of me remained rebellious. I could simply shut myself off as he did what men did inside of women and be done with that. I was determined not to let him win or show him that I did enjoy his touch. It would be an admission of defeat and to me that was unacceptable.
“No? Why not?” she asked.
“Because.” I said stiffly.
“Miumi, are you embarrassed? Don’t be. Pleasure is natural.”
“It’s not that. It’s just…” I sighed and looked away, climbing off the bed, “Please take the book with you. I don’t know how you came by it, but put it back…wherever you got it.”
Soft laughter met my ears.
“What is so funny?” I asked with some irritation.
“Sweetie, I have had this book for years. I have it all memorized and I do not need it anymore. I want to give you this so you can find pleasure with your husband.” she said. It took a while for her words to sink in.
“Oh.” I said softly.
“Look, it is nothing to be ashamed of. Sharing pleasure is not a dirty thing to do. There is more to it than simply coupling. You can…learn to enjoy it with him and keep him happy.”
“I don’t care about keeping him happy!” I shot back spitefully.
“So what are you going to do? Lay back and let him have at you?” she asked. My silence was her answer and she chuckled softly.
“Oh, you are so stubborn sometimes. I do understand your situation and I do not want you to leave. But since there is no other choice, why not make the best of it?” she asked. It was just like Father said.
“The Fire Lord wants what is between my legs, so I will simply spread them and let him take it. What more could he ask for?” I snapped. An Mei stared at me for a moment.
“This man is taking you as his wife, not as a concubine. He has never taken a wife before and I find that interesting. I have also noticed how he looks at you. It’s not the simple need of a man who wants to…spend himself” An Mei stated as I looked at her quietly.
“I’m old enough to see how men look at you or my nieces. Zuko is…different.”
“No, he is not!” I argued, “He does not even know me! He has never courted me!”
“Your father did not court me for very long. We liked each other and we both were gone beyond the age of sheer lust or infatuation, or needing parents to help us court or chaperone us..” she said. I did remember – my father and An Mei had only known each other for a couple of months before they married. And their marriage was happy, even after almost a decade.
“The Fire Lord has also gone beyond that. He wants a companion, not an unexplored cavern to claim. He could find that anywhere. I could see the concern in his eyes when you express unhappiness or displeasure. I know he cares about you.”
I simply huffed and went over to my window, looking outside.
“Your father and I knew we would be good for each other. You know I would never try to take the place of your mother and so did he, but that does not mean that he was going to shut himself off after her death. He gave himself a chance, and so did I.” she sighed. I knew her story. She had once been married to a man who had been very unfaithful and abusive to her. She knew that if she married another man she might go through the same thing, but still she took the chance.
“So please, do not shut yourself off. You have your life ahead of you. Make the most of it. He obviously thinks you are special to make you his wife. Do not disappoint him.”
I muttered something under my breath. If he was disappointed with me, he might even send me home before . But what would I be – a disgraced wife to the Fire Lord? What would my prospects be if I tried to buck the agreement before the year's end?
“The greatest gift a wife can have is a husband who is faithful and caring to her.” An Mei cut into my thoughts. I looked back at her.
“Keep him pleased and give him no reason to go to someone else.”
“And what else? Be meek and obedient?” I asked dryly. She smiled a little.
“Not all the time, Miumi. Most men like a bit of fire now and then. Sometimes I argue with your father but we do not let the arguments go on too long. Take some time to study the Fire Lord. See what he does and does not like and use it to your advantage. Get to know him.” she said. I crossed my arms.
“I know that right now that does not sound like fun. But it will be good for you. You do not love him but in time you may come to care for him and enjoy being with him. Then you will see how valuable having a loyal husband is.”
An Mei was right, I was stubborn. But I was not so hardheaded as to shut myself out from valuable advice. I took her words to heart and nodded. I would keep my distance at first until I got to see more of him and decide if it was safe to get closer.
My stepmother rose from her seat and placed the pillow book atop a couple of books on my vanity that I had not yet packed.
“Good night. Would you like me to tuck you in bed?” she asked gently. She used to do it when I was younger, and whenever I was sick. Since this was my last night here…
I smiled and climbed into my bed and she tucked me in warmly. This did feel nice and I smiled up at her. She kissed my forehead before biding me goodnight. It had been a while since she had done this and I repeated her farewell in a soft whisper.
The title ‘Mother’ was reserved for the woman who had given birth to me, but I cherished An Mei. Without her I would be lost. My father was a good man and he cared about me very much, but every girl needs a mother, just as every son needs a father. I had resented the woman at first, thinking she was trying to take my mother’s place, and I had made my dislike clear.
But that did not hide the fact that I was lonely and needed a mother. And she knew that. She herself had lost a daughter and was lonely too. So we became friends. I would miss her as I missed my father. I always kept my real mother close to my heart but over the years, the image of her face faded. What kind of people would I be going to? My parents, my cousins, Enki, my friends…all would be here while I was thrust into a new place.
I sighed and rolled over, curling up under the blankets and closing my eyes.
That night, I dreamed of intimacy with him, but he looked my age, his hair shorter, his frame leaner. I was at ease with him, and enjoying what he was doing ti me. His hands slid along my body, and then I found myself engulfed in the heat of his desire. Oh, Zuko...
I woke with a soft gasp. What had just happened? My cheeks were warm, and so were other regions... I blinked and rubbed my eyes, seeing morning light filter through the drapes of my bedroom window. I lay there, trying to remember, but the harder I tried to remember, the more the dream eluded me.

o0o0o0o
The Night Before Departure for Sozun
Fire Lord Zuko

We celebrated our nuptials with a banquet at Amigaitut's house. The feast was satisfactory, with a mixture of dishes from the chefs that Amigaitut and I employed. I sat with my wife at the head table, silently acknowledging the blessings and praise of An Mei's relatives, and the Water Tribe delegates who had originally come for the summit were also part of the guest list as well as Amigaitut's friends and business associates. My guards worked in rotation to ensure that the premises were secured.
Katara looked beautiful in a blue and black silk robe. Her hair was pulled up with small silver pins, and she looked rather calm. Knowing her, I knew her heart was pounding. Under the table, I slid my hand over hers.
She did not pull her hand away. Rather, she squeezed it gently, and I squeezed back, sadly resisting the urge to turn to her and give her a reassuring smile. But we were in a crowd, and I had always been a private person. Our hands remained together through the toast and usual well-wishes, and she pulled away only when the dishes were being served.
She seemed relaxed, making no rush to get away from me when people got up to mingle and dance. Only after two young women bowed to me, offering their respects and introducing themselves as Katara's cousins, did she leave my side to go with them. She laughed with the two girls and with other women, though I noticed that she continued to glance over at me. I raised my wineglass, and inwardly I smiled as she raised her up back at me.

o0o0o0o
Katara

I was determined to be cheerful. No one outside of my family should know that I was a very reluctant bride. I could have sat around, moping my fate and bemoaning my story for anyone to hear. But that would have been utmostly undignified of myself. It would embarrass my parents and husband, but I would be the one who would feel the worst if I had resorted to such a childish tactic.
So to all the guests, I acted like a bride who was happy with her future. My smiles encouraged the guests, and everyone was cheerful. This in turn started to make me cheerful on the inside. I thought about the Fire Lord taking my hand and squeezing it to reassure me. That simple gesture touched my heart in a way that I never would have expected. Tonight, I concentrated on the Fire Lord's kind words and gestures, thinking about his promises to me.
As the party wound down and people sat about, chatting quietly or nibbling on dessert as they passed quieter congratulations to me, I wandered out onto the terrace for some cool and fresh air.
“I figured you'd eventually tire of the party.” I heard my future groom whisper across the darkness. I turned to see him sitting on the bench under the vine canopy, the small flame in his hand almost like a beacon guiding me forward.
“I just needed some fresh air.” I replied as I sat next to him.
“So did I. But your family... seems nice.”
“They are. I grew up with them while I was living here, and I'd go to school with the cousins that were my age.” I offered. Taking his relaxed attitude and my own calmness, I ventured to ask him a question.
“What about your family?” I asked tentatively.
“I have only my son. Everyone else is dead.” he said, his voice taking on a slight edge. I stilled.
“I am sorry, my lord. Forgive me, I did not mean to upset you.” I replied quickly. He let out a soft sigh.
“It is not you I am angry with. It is merely thinking about what happened to them that makes me angry. Please do not ask about them.”
“As you wish.” I said, falling silent. If there was something else he wished to talk about, he could bring it up. I felt his hand slide along my shoulder before he draped his arm across my shoulders. He did nothing else, and this gesture felt nice. I felt my body relaxing as I leaned into his side. Normally, it would not do for the bride and groom to be left alone, but so many things had been missing or changed from the usual courtship and betrothal that it mattered not, and technically, we were now married anyway because of the contract even though Zuko had promised we could wait a while for consummation. I felt his chin rest gently on the top of my head, and smiled faintly to myself. The overall pleasantness of the banquet and now being together with him in a quiet and comfortable way gave me hope for my future.
I heard An Mei calling out to the guests.
“Where is my daughter? Has anyone seen her?” Several more called to one another as guests wondered where I was.
“Let them look for you while we enjoy a few more moments of quiet.” Zuko whispered. He gave his guard a quick motion with his hand, and the skull-masked man remained silent.
“Sounds good to me.” I replied. His chuckle was soft and pleasant.
I surmised that about a couple of minutes passed before An Mei burst out onto the terrace, and peered around in the shadows as she looked for me.
“Oh, Miumi! Oh... Pardon me, Lord Zuko. I was just worried...” An Mei said, quickly bowing her head. He merely shook his head lightly.
“As you can see, your daughter is safe and sound.” the Fire Lord stated simply, though his voice wasn't cold or imperious to drive her away. It was merely aloof, which was the way he usually spoke.
“Is there anything you might need?” An Mei asked in a friendly way, ever playing the good hostess.
“Some jasmine tea would suit us well.” he replied calmly. She went inside for a moment before she emerged, followed by a servant bearing a tray with two teacups and a small plate of various sweet finger food. We were left alone with the tray, and ate and sipped our tea in relative silence. After a while, we went back inside. Guests said goodbye and hugged me, wishing me happiness and a few of my cousins slipping me gifts. As always, the Fire Lord remained aloof, nodding slightly when agreeing with something or acknowledging someone, and he did not speak much.
My cousins flattered me on my choice, exclaiming softly how I was to become Fire Lady and how nice my life would become! Of course, I was asked questions about the Fire Lord, and I responded as honestly and shortly but flatteringly as possible, giving the kind of answers that would be expected of a filial daughter and bride-to-be.
Finally the house was silent. All the chefs and servants bustled about, gathering up the leftovers and picking up all the dishes. We went back outside to stand in the garden under the moon.
“My lady...” Zuko whispered. “I enjoyed sitting with you like this, I truly do. I hope this helps you to be more comfortable about tomorrow.” he added. I stiffened before he took my hands.
“I have already asked for your patience and forgiveness. I know you're nervous. But we will have many more moments like this.”
“Being together like this?” I asked.
“Indeed. These... quiet moments. Just being together. It feels right.” he murmured. I blushed and looked down. It felt right to me too, to share this comfortable companionship.
“I hope that one day you might feel the same way.” he ventured, now sounding almost like a shy teenager, like he had once before.
“Maybe I already do.” I shot back gently before I realized what I had said. My eyes fixed on the stone walkway, and I hoped he wouldn't say anything about it. His hands squeezed mine.
“That's good to know.” he said before he fell silent. We stood out there in the garden for several minutes, simply holding hands, before he let them go.
“I bid you a good night. Sleep well. Tomorrow's a new day.”
“It is, indeed.” I whispered, feeling nervous again. He smiled faintly before placing a kiss on my forehead before he nuzzled me gently, placing another on my lips.

o0o0o0o
Fire Lord Zuko

I lay there in my bed, looking up at the warm pastel color of the ceiling. Tomorrow I would be out of this place. Thank Agni. Enki and the Earth representatives were civil, but that was only on the surface. Their requests were carefully worded but I saw them for what they were – bids for more power, for more lands, for what they felt they deserved after the War. I had kept most of the lands that had been conquered by my forefathers.
The Fire Nation had started out as a collection of islands, and now we owned about a third of the Great Continent. The Fire and Earth Nations each owned about half of the land on that continent that did not belong to the people of Air or Water. At the end of the War, the Fire Nation had more than that under its possession. I returned some of the lands, including Omashu. Much of the land along the north and southern edges of the Continent were given to the Water Tribes to increase their meager holdings. This foothold on the Continent had helped them to prosper and even though many of them remained in the Polar Regions some of them had set up base in the warmer lands. It also helped to cement their loyalty and alliance to me.
Some members of the Earth Kingdom was not as grateful for my generosity and even now, two decades later, demanded more than what I had given them. I had agreed to more trade routes at this summit, but not to give up any of my lands. They had already been given enough after the War. I sensed their displeasure but stood firm. I could have simply kept all of the Fire Nation’s holdings for myself, and they refused to acknowledge my generosity. It was frustrating.
I most certainly was not going to allow my Nation to be reduced to just a collection of islands! Enki did not care that our land holdings were now approximately equal. I thanked Agni again that the Water Tribes were on my side. I also had a few powerful Earth people on my side, including the powerful Beifong clan. A representative of the Beifongs was at the summit. Unfortunately, Toph had not been at the summit – she would have been a real help with her no-nonsense attitude.
There were a few loose ends to wrap up tomorrow. I would share one final meal with the Water Tribe representatives. I had hosted a sumptuous dinner here at the inn two nights ago for them and they had enjoyed it much. When I extended the same invitation to the Earth representatives, I had been politely turned down with the excuse that they had business to take care of.
The years had taught me patience – at least some – if nothing else.
My thoughts turned to Katara. I was eager for tomorrow night. I wanted to sleep with her in my arms, feel her soft flesh under my fingers, inhale her scent. Part of me was still reeling from the fact that she had come back.
The wrenching loneliness I had felt since her death now promised to end. After the end of the War I had buried myself in my work to deal with my grief. My uncle had often told me to not burn the candle at both ends. He had tried to cheer me up by bringing me girls of all kinds, hoping I might find something I liked. I did find release at times but no real satisfaction.
I remembered the nights Katara and I had been together, whether in heated passion or tender embraces. Having her in my arms felt so right. I remembered the heated arguments we had, the way she would stand up to me with the fire in her eyes and challenge me. One of my fondest memories was of the Oasis at the North Pole. There Katara and me had fought fiercely, using our bending to the best of our abilities. She had truly been my opposite yet my equal and she belonged to and with me.

o0o0o0o
Day of Departure for Sozun
Katara

I managed to have an appetite for breakfast and tried to be as cheerful as I could for the sake of my parents. My father stayed longer than he had for the last week because the summit was just about over and there was only last minute business to wrap up. I was almost done with packing.
Not long after breakfast, the man named Kamas came to check up on things. He was a respectful man, and spoke to me calmly. He asked me how I was, how the packing was going, if there was anything I needed. I nodded, telling him I had packed just about everything I needed. I was surprised with this man and his kindness. He had a tall and imposing presence, yet when he spoke to me it was in a calm and friendly manner.
Soon enough my room was bare of all of my personal touches except for the blankets and pillows on the bed and the furniture. It looked so bare, and I held back a soft sigh. The servants brought my trunks downstairs and I sat on one as one of them brought me a cup of tea.
Suddenly, there was a commotion outside and I looked at Kamas curiously. He shrugged to show that he was as clueless about it as I was. I came to the courtyard and gasped when I saw the King of Omashu and more than a few of his men.
“Your Highness!” I said softly. All of my messages to him had been intercepted, and I wondered if my father had gotten word to him.
“Miumi, come here!” Enki said, standing there in fierce-looking armor. The Fire Nation guards were poised and ready to attack. I feared what could happen.
“Is there a problem here?” Kamas asked as he came up behind me. I was unable to speak, and Enki glared at Kamas, his green eyes hard with something I had never seen before. He looked like a boy who had his toy snatched from him, and at that moment, I could not help but think of how childish he seemed to me.
“I just caught wind of what the Fire Lord was intending to do and rushed over here.”
“It is a done deal, your Majesty. You have no say in the matter.” Kamas replied calmly.
“Yes I do! I am the King of Omashu, and I was already courting her!”
“The Fire Lord has already laid his claim to her and the fact that you are the ruler of Omashu has nothing to do with it.”
“I welcomed Fire Lord Zuko and his people here and this is how I am repaid?”
“The Fire Lord did not do this to spite you. It would not have made any difference whether you were interested in the lady or not. He saw her and wanted her.”
“I will not allow the Fire Lord to take Miumi away from me!” Enki snapped and he beckoned to me. I took a small, hesitant step towards him and Kamas placed a gentle hand on my shoulder.
“Then you risk war with the Fire Nation by taking that which belongs to the Fire Lord. Keep in mind that we are more than prepared for you.” Kamas said in a cold manner. It was so different from the warm and respectful manner that he spoke to me with that for a moment I thought someone else had spoken.
“Come here.” Enki coaxed to me as if he was speaking with a child, “I will keep you safe.”
Kamas’ hand squeezed my shoulder and he motioned to one of the Fire guards. I made no move.
“Escort the lady inside.” he stated in a commanding tone. Before I could pull away from him, the ground shook, causing him to lose his footing for a moment. It shook again around Kamas’ feet more violently, causing him to fall. The Fire guards summoned flames, and my stomach lurched.
“You should know better than to make unprovoked attacks!” Kamas said coldly as he rose to his feet.
“You're the ones who started this!” Enki snarled. His muscles rippled under his well-tanned skin.
“Please, don’t fight!” I pleaded, holding up my hands. Enki glared at Kamas coldly.
“You have no say in this for we 'started' nothing. For you to do something like this…I am sure you are too intelligent of a ruler to do that…your Majesty.”
Enki ignored Kamas, looking at me.
“Come here.” he ordered, holding out a hand.
“Your arrogance and stubborn nature will be your undoing should you keep this up.” Kamas stated.
“Then give me Miumi and I will stand down.” Enki replied.
“My lord has claimed her. You lost.” Kamas replied calmly.
“But Miumi does not want it. Otherwise there wouldn’t be so many guards, she wouldn’t look so unhappy, and I would have been notified.”
Before Kamas or I could react, the earth under my feet moved and I was shoved towards Enki, and I gave out a startled yelp. He caught me in one arm and kept it around my middle. The funny thing was, at that moment I didn't actually feel safe.
“Why don’t you let Miumi decide?” Enki asked with a sneer. I looked over at Kamas who was now standing there calmly, yet I sensed that he was poised to attack if need be. The Fire and Earth guards were tense and I knew it would only take a spark to start an all-out fight.
“Very well then.” Kamas nodded as he looked at me, “My lady? Who would you choose? A man who offers you a wonderful life as his wife and as Fire Lady, a man who respects and cares for you so much that he chooses to give you a such honored position? Or a man that sees you as a trophy and is so petty as to risk a fight – and the safety of his own city?” he asked. I swallowed and looked back at Enki. He had his own response.
“Miumi, who will you choose? Me, the man who has been courting you and treating you wonderfully, or the man who has forced your hand and is dragging you to the Fire Nation?” he asked with a smirk.
“Is that how you want it? To play the hard way? Would you like the Fire Lord to cancel all of his agreements with you?” Kamas asked, “Or should we use the walls of Omashu for target practice…again?” Kamas asked. I felt Enki stiffen. The Fire Nation occupation of Omashu had been a long time ago but still the King bristled at this mention even though he had only been a small child back then.
“You have no right to do this! My nation has done nothing to the Fire Nation! Do you want to start the Great War all over again? Are you a fool?” he screamed.
“Your Highness, if I were a fool, I would be screaming hysterically like a spoiled child.” Kamas stated calmly. I had to hold back a laugh at this. He continued.
“Considering the Water Tribes would back the Fire Lord’s claim, as would the Beifong clan, it would be you starting a new Great War by stealing his bride. I doubt you would want that on your head!” Kamas added. Enki looked down at me again.
“Were you coerced? Yes or no?” he asked. I hesitated, and he continued before I could respond..
“I'll keep you safe. Come with me.”
“Somehow I doubt that considering Omashu's walls, particularly on the northern side, are weak enough for a fire tank assault should it come to that.”
I had no desire for a fight. Sozin’s war had done enough damage and I had no desire to undo the progress that had been made since. I refused to be spoken of in such a harsh light or have my name reviled for generations. Miumi, the spark that started the second Great War. Miumi, who undid the two decades of progress that had been made since the last one. Miumi, the face that launched a thousand Fire Navy ships. My name would be cursed all the way down the generations, like Sozin’s name. My family would be forever shamed. I could not take all of that.
“Fine, you win.” I said bitterly to Kamas, “I don’t want to start another war.”
“Enki…” I said with a soft sigh, “Please let me go. This is not worth starting another war, not when we just had a war that lasted for a century. Please, let go of me and forget about this.”
I pulled away from him, noting the stunned look on his face. He then glared at Kamas.
“I shall not forget this.” Enki vowed. Kamas shrugged, showing that this was irrelevant to him. He and his men stood at full alert as the King of Omashu ordered his men to retreat. I stood there in the courtyard, feeling the eyes of the Fire guards on me. I stalked past Kamas, whispering furiously.
“You ruined my life, I hope you are happy.”
“You were making my job difficult and for you to say I have ruined your life is not only the height of disrespect, it is also very hurtful to a man who has shown you nothing but respect.” he replied. I was surprised to hear sadness in his voice, but I did not respond to it.
“I could say the same thing about what you are doing to me.” I replied acidly as I stalked into the house, racing through the rooms and going into the back gardens, tears breaking free and streaming down my cheeks.
I collapsed at the edge of the pond – coincidentally the spot where the Fire Lord and I had talked about our marriage – broken sobs escaping my throat before I felt a hand on my shoulder.
“My lady…”
“It's not fair!'”
“He does care for you very much, otherwise he would not even look at you the way he does. He had never looked at any of his concubines in such a way, and would consider nobody for the position of honored wife.” Kamas replied gently, all coldness gone from his voice. I sniffled softly before letting out a soft sigh, wondering how Kamas was so astute as to be able to read his master's expressions, how veiled they were.
“I never asked for any of this.”
“That is what many say when things happen in their lives, but often it goes on for the better.”
“Including mine? I am going to a place that scares me with a man I barely know.”
“I promise you everything will work out for the better, my lady.” he said and I looked down at the pond, not saying a word. I had been calm and collected before Enki showed up and now I was a wreck. I had no idea what to do or say.
“I'm scared.” I said softly.
“May I offer you something?” he asked. I glanced up at him curiously, thinking he would offer me something to wipe my tears with.
“I would like to offer you my friendship.” Kamas asked. I stared at him for a moment. Was he serious?
“I understand that you are scared but you have no reason to be. And you would feel more comfortable if you had people you could trust over in Sozun.” Kamas said matter-of-factly.
‘”I do not simply offer it just because I am your servant and am obligated to give you my loyalty. Your character is admirable and for Zuko to have chosen you means he thinks highly of you. And if he does think that way, then I should too. I would like to offer you my services. If you need someone to talk with then I will listen and not tell anyone. I will also answer whatever questions you may have about the Fire Nation and living in the Palace. Do not let your fear destroy your chance of enjoying what life has to offer.”
I sighed and looked back down at the pond.
“I mean it, my lady. It will be my pleasure to serve you.” he said and I nodded faintly.
“It’s just…so sudden.” I murmured.
“I understand, my lady. Like I said, I am here to help. And Zuko will treat you well. Truth be told, you intrigue me.”
“And what does that mean?” I asked, unsure of whether to take offense to that.
“You study people and things like your father does. On the first night, when the Fire Lord and I spoke to you and danced with you, you took us in and held no prejudice against us. You gave us a chance instead of looking at us like Enki did. And last night, you studied everyone with the same scrutiny while enjoying yourself. Even when you are angry or sad, you reach out with curiosity.”
“Curiosity?” I asked with a frown.
“In the front yard, when Enki and I were…having the discussion, you studied us both, as well as the troops. I could see it in your eyes.”
“I…I was just thinking…I did not mean anything by it.” I replied warily. Kamas smiled at me.
“There is nothing wrong with it, my lady. I value curiosity and welcome it because it shows a healthy and intelligent mind.”
“Oh. Um. Thank you.” I said, blushing just a little.
“You are quite welcome, my lady. And by the way? I would not really have attacked Omashu. That would not be an honorable thing to do. Had Enki really taken you, I would have sent a covert team in to retrieve you.” he said.
“Do you think Enki will try to start a fight with the Fire Nation?” I asked hesitantly.
“I have taken safeguards against that. I doubt he would be that rash to start an all out war, and if he did he would be bought down quickly.” Kamas replied and I nodded.
“I give up.” I said quietly, “I will not be fighting any more. You win.”
“Thank you, my lady.” Kamas said – his voice utterly devoid of any sarcasm – as he removed his hand from my shoulder. Instead of simply pulling away, he offered it to me instead and when I took, it he helped me to my feet. I sighed, not wanting to leave the pond. I had sat by it so often it was almost like a friend to me. I had Waterbended in it so often.
As if he read my thoughts he looked down at me.
“The gardens at the Palace are beautiful and you will enjoy them, and there are several ponds and a spring and lake on the grounds as well. You will enjoy it.” he offered. I glanced at him curiously.
“I am not saying that the Palace gardens are better than this one, but you will have something to enjoy in your new home.” Kamas said with a smile. I smiled back at him a little.
I held back my tears as I made my goodbyes. The servants were sad to see me go as my family treated them well and I had been a good mistress. My parents gave me tearful farewells and I ended up having to comfort An Mei, who was usually a pillar of strength. My father held me in a lingering hug and I hugged him back just as fiercely.
Everything was packed and the guards were ready. Kamas stood by the sedan that would carry me to the ship and he took my hand, helping me into it.
The sedan moved forward and I sat there alone, encased in luxurious red velvet. The softness and darkness of my surroundings made me think of a womb, and in a way it was. I was starting a new life.
- 4
- 5
- 6
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Kiss of Fire