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

Chapter List
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Kiss of Fire
Epilogue – Sweet Tomorrow, Part 2
o0o0o0o
28 Years ASC
(Late Spring, 1130)
Katara
Our child was due near the end of spring. Zuko and I had discussed names, wanting the best name for our child. We had considered naming it after a beloved relative – perhaps Iroh if it was a boy. Zuko fretted over me, worrying about my health and safety, and sometimes I just wanted to smack him!
Though I trusted Sylid, I asked Zuko for a Water Tribe midwife, wishing for familiarity during this time in my life. I was comfortable in Fire Nation and in my role as Fire Lady, but I was first and foremost Water Tribe. Zuko complied with my request and sent a message to the Water Tribes, asking for a Waterbender healer to come live with us around the end of my pregnancy. It was so nice having another Waterbender around, and Sela told me about the goings-on of the North Pole, updating me on the place I had been born in. Sinaaq – Yue's younger brother – was now chief of the Northern Tribe, Arnook having passed away several years ago. It felt odd thinking about the fact that the War had ended thirty years ago, because I remembered the Siege of the North as if it was yesterday.
One of my favorite memories was of the battle Zuko and I had at the Oasis. We still dueled on a regular basis even now, practicing and honing our Bending against one another. I couldn't wait to be done with the pregnancy so we could go back to our sparring matches. My back and ankles hurt if I stood for too long, and I had the weirdest food urges. It drove me crazy when the servants followed me around and fussed over me.
It was two weeks before the summer solstice that I was taking a walk in the garden, enjoying a warm, sunny day. These strolls were a welcome distraction from my pregnancy and the fussing everyone did over me. I could just look at the flowers or feed the koi or turtle-ducks. My back had been hurting all morning, but walking actually made it feel a little better. I looked down at my rounded tummy, feeling my baby through the thin silk that covered my stomach. I was frightened – childbirth was a messy and sometimes dangerous affair – but I was also excited. I would be having a baby with Zuko!
“Ah!” A sudden pain in my stomach caused me to stop and bend over for a moment. I took a deep breath, my hands shaking. It was almost time. I continued walking, albeit at a slower pace, to the nearest comfortable spot, sitting on the grass and leaning my back against a tree as I looked at the pond. Was it really almost the end? I remembered vividly when I wasn't even showing, when the happy news was between Zuko and myself alone.
I bit back a groan as another contraction ripped through my middle. Jeez! Having a baby was supposed to be a happy event, why did it have to hurt so much? I stared at the pond, focusing on its ripples as a way to help distract me.
“My lady?” I heard one of my guards ask. I looked up at him, trying to not grimace as I had another contraction right then. The sight of Hongli's face helped to distract and reassure me for a moment. He was one of my personal guards and had been for the last few years, having retired from full military service but not wishing to simply stop working. I had met his wife and children, and he had a couple of grandchildren as well. I liked having him around and he did his job well as guard to the Fire Lord's wife.
The look of concern on his face showed me that he could easily guess what was going on – he had probably seen his wife in a similar state in the past.
“It's time.” I whispered, patting my stomach. “You know what to do.” I tried to smile, but let out a gasp as the pain struck me again. In no time, a couple more guards were at my side.
o0o0o0o
Zuko
My wife had been absent from Court for the last couple of months upon Sylid's advice. I almost envied her because she could just sit in bed or a comfy chair or take leisurely strolls in the gardens while I had to deal with all the nobles and courtiers. Suddenly, Kidoji emerged from the side door and approached my throne.
“My lord, it is time.” He bowed, and I felt my heart pound in anticipation. I had instructed my manservant to bring me the news immediately, whether or not I was in Court.
“Give my wife my best wishes, and tell her I will be with her as soon as I can.” I could barely focus during the rest of the session. Agni preserve me. The concerns and problems of my subjects seemed at that moment insignificant next to the fact that I would be a father – again. I had often thought about what our child would look like. Would it favor my looks, like Kuzon did. Or would it more closely resemble her mother like Adi did?
Evening settled in as the Court closed its doors. Kidoji hadn't returned, which meant that there was no emergency or complications in the birth. Thank Agni. Nonetheless, I rushed to our private quarters, plowing through the servants that huddled in the hall outside Katara's suite.
My wife's shriek filled the air as I entered the parlor, and I winced. Hana and Peony, quickly approached me, bowing.
“My lord...”
“How is my wife?” I asked before they could recite any more formality. Another scream burst from Katara's bedroom.
“From the sounds of it, almost done.” Hana had a faint, sympathetic smile as she glanced towards the closed doors. She had two young children of her own, having married about five years ago. But she remained a close friend of Katara's and a fixture at Court.
“Would you like to sit down and have some tea, my lord?” Peony asked. I was tempted to charge into the bedroom, but I was afraid of seeing a mess. But then, most if not all men are squeamish about that kind of thing. I nodded slowly and let her lead me to a plush red armchair. I closed my eyes, trying to remain calm.
I think half an hour passed – with more screaming from Katara – before I heard what I was sure was a baby's cry. Sylid opened the door and smiled as he bowed to me.
“Agni smiles upon us all. Your wife has given you a healthy daughter, my lord.”
“And my wife?”
“She handled it as well as any woman could. She will be fine, she just needs rest.”
I let out a slow sigh of relief as the doctor retreated to the bedroom. About a quarter of an hour passed before he returned with a bundle in his arms.
“Your daughter, my lord.” He held it out to me, and I took it. She was wrapped in a soft red blanket, and I sat back as I looked down at her. She had her mother's tan, albeit a shade or two lighter, but she had my black hair. Gently, I touched her face, running my finger along her cheek. Hana and Peony leaned over to look at her.
“She's so cute!” They cooed at the baby and smiled at me, sharing my happiness, but they gave me my space. I leaned back, looking down at her as I held her. I carefully pulled a bit of the blanket to look at her hand, gingerly touching it. Her fingers were so tiny! I could not help but recall Kuzon's first day. How could something so small grow into an adult person? I lightly ran my fingers against the soft black wisps of her hair, waiting for my wife to be ready to see me.
The door opened again after about twenty minutes – my daughter was quiet in my arms – and Sela looked at me.
“The lady wishes for your presence, Lord Zuko.” she said.
I nodded slowly and rose to my feet, the precious bundle in my arms as I entered the bedroom. Where the parlor was filled with red, her bedroom was as blue as it has ever been, offering a soothing refuge for mother and child. Katara lay there quietly in a fresh nightgown, the blanket pulled up to her stomach. Sela was wiping her forehead with a washcloth.
I sat at the side of the bed, and Katara opened her eyes. We sat together in silence for a while until the baby started crying.
“I think she's hungry.” I commented, remembering how Kuzon had cried for breastmilk. Katara held out her arms, and I placed the baby in them before dismissing Sela.
Katara loosened the ribbon that held the front of her nightgown closed, and when the baby started feeding, she looked back at me. “We haven't decided on a name.”
“I know.” Initially, I had been thinking about naming her after an honored ancestor, like Aila or Ursa. Maybe Ta Min. But what if Katara wanted the baby to be named after one of her ancestors? Technically, since children were considered part of their father's lineage, the mother had no claim on naming. But that wasn't fair to Katara. I wanted a name we could both enjoy. Something that reflected both of us.
“What about Zhe Yi?” I asked. Zhe, 哲, meant wise, and Yi, 仡, read as strong or courageous. These were two qualities that were emphasized for leaders, to balance strength with wisdom, but these were two traits that anyone should be proud to have, whether they be a mighty king or a humble commoner.
“Sounds good to me.” She smiled at me. “Princess Zhe Yi. Yeah, that works.” Her eyes twinkled as she looked at me and then our daughter for a moment before returning her attention to me.
“I love you, Tara.” I reached out to squeeze her hand.
o0o0o0o
Katara
When I opened my eyes, it was already night. I stirred, startled to realize that I no longer had a weight around my middle. I touched my stomach, and it felt oddly flat. Having gotten used to a slowly-increasing womb, I felt empty. My breasts remained full, and I was reassured by that. I remembered giving birth, and seeing the baby being washed, and my body passing the afterbirth. It felt so nice to be in clean pajamas, all of the mess washed or bundled away!
“Katara?” I heard my husband whisper. I looked over to my left to see him in the rocking chair that had been brought to my room the week before in preparation for the birth. He was out of his Courtly robes, now clad in a plain, comfortable silk robe with matching hakama and slippers. Zhe Yi was nestled in the crook of his arm as he gently rocked back and forth.
“Hmm.” I stretched my arms above my head before pulling myself up a bit.
“How are you feeling?” he asked. I still felt tired, and I was a bit sore down there despite the analgesic herbs Sylid had given me. But there were no nurses or servants hovering about, which spoke volumes about my current condition. If Sylid thought I was well enough to be left alone, at least with Zuko... Oh, how glad I was to have Sela. The healing that Sela and I were gifted with our Waterbending abilities was a boon in more ways than one. I wondered if healing could be applied with the other Bending arts. But that would be something to think about later.
I was now a mother, again. How excited Zuko and I had been for this baby's arrival, and now she was here! He looked so comfortable sitting there, at ease with a baby in his embrace.
“I'm... okay.” I managed a faint smile. “Tired, though.”
“Delivering a Princess of the Fire Nation will do that.”
We both laughed quietly. I thought about the times Zuko would touch and rub my tummy, feeling Zeyi's kicks. I had no fears of Zuko being a poor father – he was a wonderful one for Adi and Kuzon, and I could see by the open warmth in his face as he regarded his youngest child that the pattern would not be broken. For a moment, I thought of Ozai, who saw his son as weak. It was too bad that he was too arrogant to appreciate his son's fine qualities.
o0o0o0o
Late Autumn 1130
Katara
Officially, our daughter's name was Zhe Yi, but we called her 'Zeyi' for short. She had her father's golden eyes, and I thought that if she was going to be a Bender, she would probably be a Firebender. I have to admit, I hoped she would be a Waterbender. Zuko had Kuzon to train with and pass down his knowledge and skill, I wanted to do the same. Being the only Waterbender in the Fire Court was a lonely position.
Zeyi enjoyed being outside, so I set out a thick blanket for her on the grass. There were a few flowers that bloomed in autumn and Zeyi enjoyed playing with them, so sometimes I would run one along her face or hands like I was doing now, while she laughed or tried to grab it. Kuzon enjoyed playing with her – how many teenage boys could you find who would willingly spend time with their infant siblings? Zuko doted on his daughter, and I enjoyed seeing the happiness in his face as he bounced her on his lap. As Fire Lady, I could foist my child off on a wet-nurse or a caretaker, but I couldn't imagine simply handing Zeyi off to someone else to take care of.
“Mama?” I heard Kuzon say. I looked up at him.
“Avatar Aang has arrived. I wasn't sure if you wanted to greet him formally or...”
“No formalities, please.” I smiled at him.
“That's what I thought.” He turned around and waved, and I saw Aang come down the path. I always enjoyed being visited by friends or family. Sokka and Suki had visited me a couple of months ago, and Father and An Mei with the twins a month before that.
The twins were ten years old now, and both of them were Earthbenders. An Mei's first husband had mistreated her, so I knew she was especially happy with my father and the children he had given her. They now had a daughter as well, three years old. Sometimes I felt a little sad not being able to see them grow up, but I now had a family of my own and was hardly in a position to complain.
Sokka and Suki had had another child, a third son. Hakoda had already married a girl from the Southern Water Tribe and had a child on the way. It was funny to think of Sokka as a grandfather.
I rose to my feet and hugged Aang. It'd been a couple of years since I saw him though we exchanged letters. His appearance hadn't changed much, though as I looked at him closely, I could see a couple of crow's feet around his eyes. Sometimes it was hard for me to think that this had once been a cute, big-eyed kid who had been unsure of his role as the Avatar.
Kuzon gave us a slight bow before he left. I sat down at the edge of the blanket, and Aang smiled as he looked at Zeyi.
“Sokka told me the news after he visited you. Congratulations.”
“Thanks.”
“Can I hold her?”
“Of course!” I watched as Aang picked her up, handling her with as much care as if she was his own child. She looked up at him and grabbed the wooden beads of his necklace, making us both laugh. That was something you had to watch out with the Princess – she had the tendency to grab bracelets, necklaces, braids, the edges of sleeves, or other things that would cause the owner of such objects to pay attention to her. Aang tapped her nose and tickled her, causing her to giggle and squirm around.
“How's your family?” I asked. He smiled faintly and shrugged. I knew that a couple of his older children now had husbands or wives of their own. Like Sokka, it was weird to think of Aang as a grandfather, especially when I was remembering him as I first met him.
“Doing well. There's more of us now, and I also have my acolytes. My oldest children and some of the acolytes have already populated one of the temples.”
“Are you going to do the same as before? I mean, living in isolation?”
“No. When the Air Monks cut themselves off from the world, it made it all too easy for them to be betrayed by one of their own, and for Sozin to wipe them out. I'm definitely keeping many of the traditions. But we can't be isolated anymore. When I was little, our exposure to the outside world was limited. I had friends like Bumi or Kuzon, but I couldn't see them as often as I would have liked. And the world didn't really understand the Air Nomads because we had been so apart from the world.”
“I know you'll make the right decisions.”
“I do my best. But it hasn't been an easy life. Dealing with what happened to my people...”
“Aang.” I reached out to touch his arm. “I know it hurts, and I understand some of it... with what happened with Hama and what the Fire Nation did to my tribe. But we can't dwell on the past too much. You're working for a better future for the Air Nomads. The world is a much better place, not just for you and me, but for others. The War has been over for almost thirty years.”
“I know. And it does make me happy. But I have my bad days. It's impossible to forget...” As he said that, I remembered all too clearly the time he, Sokka, and I had gone to the Southern Air Temple for the first time, and he found the corpses of the monks who had raised him.
“We all do.” Sometimes it hurt me to think of what Azula had done to me, the time I – and Zuko – had lost, what befell my mother or tribe, even what had happened between me and Hama... so many things to be sad or angry about. But dwelling on these things constantly made us lose sight of the positive. “But if we keep thinking about the things that made us angry or sad, we lose sight of what is important.” I couldn't obsess over what Azula had done, or Zuko trying to keep secrets from me previously. Zuko had found me again – thank Agni, literally and figuratively, and now we had our own family and happy marriage.
“Why does it often seem so much easier to become sad or angry than happy? If Sozin had been happy with what he had,, then...” he asked.
“There's something to think about.” Without Sozin's War, the entire course of history of the last hundred years would have been totally different. I never would have lost my mom or be killed by Azula. The Water Tribe would have been considerably bigger without all the raids that Gran-Gran and Hama had lived through. And Zuko and I probably never would have met. Would Aang have still be frozen in the ice? What if Afiko had never betrayed his Air Nomad brothers and sisters? “But there's no changing what has happened.” I had made mistakes in my past lives, big and small, but it was no use beating myself up over them. I could only learn from them and move on.
“Sometimes you really do sound like an Avatar.” Aang smiled at me. I looked away, blushing a little. Being able to remember my various past lives had been insightful in some ways, and also helped me to understand history better. It was one thing to read the books in the library or listen to one of the University scholars give a lecture, but to actually remember my experiences in various historical periods and different elements was beyond compare. I often compared my journal to various historical texts.
“Maybe I was one in a past life.” I teased. Aang laughed, flashing me the same kind of smile he would give me years ago. His grin made him look twelve years again, especially with his bald head and the twinkle in his eyes.
“I'm sure we were friends in past lives anyway, right?” he asked.
“We were.” I replied in all seriousness before I realized what I had just uttered. He glanced at me with a raised eyebrow. I stared back at him calmly before letting out a quiet sigh.
“We knew one another in past lives.”
“You... but... how? I thought only the Avatar could recall past incarnations.”
“After I remembered myself as Katara, Agni spoke to me in a vision. I then remembered some other lives I had lived. You were in a few of them.” Not only had I encountered Aang in past lives, I remembered a couple of Avatars as well. It was funny that in this life, Zuko, Aang, and the Avatar were all part of it.
Aang smiled faintly. “And... we were happy together?”
“Yes.” I took a slow breath. “I guess that's why we became friends so quickly in this lifetime.”
“When I opened my eyes and you were looking down at me, I had this funny, happy feeling like I knew you from somewhere before.”
“Really?” The discovery of the Avatar by Sokka and me was one of my most vivid memories. “No wonder you asked me if I wanted to go penguin-sledding!” I remarked, and we both laughed.
“Were we... ever more than friends?” he asked almost shyly. I nodded.
“Yes. Last time... you were my wife.” I had to bite back a smirk as I saw his surprise.
“What about Zuko?”
“I have told you all that you need to know.” I wasn't going to tell him that Zuko was my soulmate – that was between my husband and me. “I was happy before. I am happy now. And I will be happy in the future. And that applies to you, too.”
Zeyi started to fuss, squirming around and reaching out for me. I only fed her alone or in Zuko's presence.
“My daughter is hungry.” I gently scooped her from Aang's lap. “I'll see you at dinner.”
“All right then.” He did not argue, and actually looked rather content, as if what I had said brought him peace.
o0o0o0o
29 Years ASC
(Early Spring 1131)
Zuko
I was in my study, reading a book and enjoying a cup of tea. Life was good. The Fire Nation was strong and prosperous. Katara and I were as happy as ever. Kuzon was a confident young man that was now part of my Council. Zeyi was almost a year old and was a healthy baby, having just learned how to walk.
I heard some babble and saw Zeyi peer at me over the arm of my chair.
“What are you doing down there?” I asked with a smile as I put down my book. As she learned how to walk, Zeyi used the opportunity to explore areas that had previously been inaccessible to her. If her mother or nurse didn't keep an eye on her, Zeyi would actually try to climb tables or furniture, though she had a ways to go before she was big enough to succeed. But she was very determined – just like her parents.
“Da!” She lifted up her arms, indicating she wanted to be picked up. I scooped her up and put her in my lap. She looked every bit the Princess in her red satin smock, pants, and little slippers. Her hair was thick, forming soft curls around her face. She peered up at me with eyes that were same color as mine or her brother's.
After a while, she started to wiggle around, crawling to my left side and trying to climb from the arm of the chair to the table next to it. I laughed quietly, placing my hands on her sides and holding her. She squirmed and tried to escape my grip, grabbing the edge of the table and trying to pull herself forward.
“I don't think so, sweetie.” I murmured as I tried to tug her away. But she was stronger than I expected, tenaciously holding on and refusing to let go. What would it be like when she was bigger, more sure in her ability to climb? Would she one day try to climb the trees in the gardens?
Zeyi made noises of protest as I resolutely pulled her back into my lap. I smiled and shook my head, glancing at the teapot and cup that lay within my reach. Both were antique, passed down to serve tea to many generations of Fire Lords. Agni forbid that Zeyi knock one or the other over! She made impatient noises, reaching with her little hands for the cup.
“No. That's for adults. When you're older, you can drink from it.” I said. But she ignored me and continued to try to reach for it. It was a lovely teacup, fired with a rare, brilliant red glaze and adorned with delicate strokes of goldwork.
Suddenly, the tea within the fragile vessel sloshed, a few drops landing on the table. I blinked and stared at it, wondering what had just happened. There hadn't been an earthquake, had there? I quickly looked around. No.
The water stirred again, and the cup moved a centimeter towards us, more drops splashing out. I stared at Zeyi, who was now laughing and clapping her hands. I watched as the cup moved a couple more times before I finally realized that my daughter was a Waterbender. I laughed and scooped her up into my arms, thinking about how the nurse would have to keep an even closer eye on her!
Katara was coming out of the washroom, rubbing her hair dry with a towel as I approached her.
“Good news.” I announced with a smile as I looked down at her. She glanced at us with mild curiosity.
“Our daughter is a Waterbender.”
Katara blinked and glanced at Zeyi before looking at me again. I smiled. “She's already quite the handful for Neomi, but I'm sure she can deal with it. Besides, she'll have a great teacher. Isn't that right, Zeyi?” I looked down at my daughter. She giggled and clapped her little hands.
o0o0o0o
Kuzon
When I was little, I knew only the basic facts about Fire Nation history. That's how every child starts out, with the facts that their parents or elders see fit to share with them, their imagination filling in the rest. As we get older, reality fills in the gaps that our imagination had once sufficed for.
I had never known anybody in my family but for my father. Uncle Iroh died when I too young to remember him. My birth mother died when I was just two years old, and I didn't remember her either. My aunt and grandmother were dead before I was born.
Nobody talked about my grandfather. He had been stripped of his Bending by Avatar Aang and sealed away in the Imperial Dungeon ever since, as good as dead. When I was little, I thought he was dead, since he was never let outside and everybody acted as if he didn't exist. After Father had become Fire Lord, most of the pictures of the former Fire Lord had been taken down so the only painting I had seen of him was in the Hall of Lords, between Azulon and my father.
I was curious about my grandfather. What kind of man would scar and banish my father because he had stood up for loyal Fire Nation soldiers? It was something I'd been thinking about a lot recently after confirming that he was indeed alive. I went to the library to learn as much about him as I could because it seemed the only place to get information. I was hesitant to ask Father because when I asked Kamas or Jeong Jeong about Ozai, they seemed reluctant to answer my questions about him.
But I knew that I would have to talk to Father sooner or later. Nobody could see Ozai without his permission. One afternoon, when we were having lunch alone, I decided to approach the subject. We were close, and Father encouraged me to talk to him whenever I needed to, about whatever I wanted. But I still felt nervous, because I knew very well what had happened between my father and his own father.
“Father... there's something important that I need to ask you.” I said. He raised his eyebrow and looked at me with curiosity before nodding. I took a deep breath.
“May I see my grandfather?”
Father's expression became unreadable as he stared at me. I opened my mouth, about to explain why I wanted to see him, but Father put up his hand in a clear signal for silence. Had I angered him?
At dinner that night, I could feel the tension. I could tell from the way Mama glanced at Father that they had talked about it. I wondered if Mama had ever seen Ozai. I suddenly realized that I had never asked her about him. I looked at my parents, waiting for one of them to say something. Finally, the silence became too much.
“Father, about this afternoon...”
“Yes.”
Wait, what? What was he saying yes for? To acknowledge me?
“You and I will go tomorrow.”
o0o0o0o
I felt nervous as Father and I walked down the path to the Imperial Dungeon. I had never been in there, and has passed by it very few times because it was so out of the way.
I had a hard time sleeping the night before because I was so nervous. What would my grandfather be like? Would he be happy to see me, or rude? After all, my father was the one who ordered him to be kept in the dungeon. What had thirty years as a deposed ruler done to him? I didn't expect Grandfather to welcome me, but I still wanted to see him.
Father looked very somber. Before we went in, I stopped and touched his arm. He looked at me.
“I hope that... you're not angry with me because I want to see him. I never intended any disrespect towards you, my lord...”
Father shook his head. “I know. You were curious. Like your mother.”
I blinked. “Mama? She saw Ozai?”
He nodded slowly. “I just didn't want you meeting him when you were younger. He is not fit to be around children. But you are no longer a child.”
I smiled. Sometimes I missed being a child, because I was now too big to cuddle in Mama or Father's lap or have them pick me up, but being a man came with its privileges. When I was a child, I had considered my father the next thing to Agni. The servants and guards were proud to be of the Fire Nation, and as son of the Fire Lord, I was groomed to one day wield the power that was my birthright. But now, I also saw that it came with immense responsibility. Despite all the pleasures and comforts my family enjoyed, there was a considerable price to pay for it.
Being Lord of a Nation also meant that everyone knew your name, and if something went immensely wrong, a ruler's name was inevitably linked with the event. Many cursed my great-great grandfather Sozin for what had only ended three decades ago. The incident with Enki was just one example of how a current ruler could be punished for past sins. I just hoped that I could be as good my father and keep our name truly honored.
We entered the building, and the guard bowed to us before leading us down the hallway. We passed several more guards before being led to a steel door. Even though my father already had a key, the guard unlocked the door and opened it for him. Nobody except for me and possibly Mama knew about Father's key.
He kept a key hidden under his robes. It was a master key to the dungeon, Father had explained to me, for no lord should be without a key to every room in the Palace City. He had shown me his collection once – keys to the treasury, hidden rooms, the throne room, even a key to Mama's room among the others. It was a tradition that had been started in the day of a Fire Lord long dead and gone. He had an ambitious son who had tried to usurp the throne, locking his father in the Imperial Dungeon. The imprisoned Fire Lord was trapped for years, but his loyal daughter managed to duplicate the key to the dungeon and slip it to him.
The son was executed for his betrayal, and the daughter became one of the few female Fire Lords in our history. Ever since then, each Fire Lord had a set of keys passed from one Fire Lord to another.
That story snapped me back to the reality of the current situation. My grandfather was a prisoner here. Doubtless he often wished he had the key...
I was quiet as I surveyed the room, seeing metal bars that prevented the occupant from reaching the door we had just come through. A man clad in a gray smock and trousers sat on the mat, reading a book. His head slowly turned as he fixed his gaze upon us. I saw a flicker of surprise as he looked at me, before he quickly wiped all emotion from his face.
“It's only been a couple of months. I didn't expect the pleasure of another visit so soon.” Ozai said as he slowly closed his book and put it down. Even at this distance, I could see the resemblance he shared with my father – and with me. His hair was shot over with gray, but it was thick and long. His facial hair was the same color, showing that he had not shaven for several days.
I took a step forward, and he rose from the blankets to approach the bars.
“Greetings, grandson. How kind of your father to bring you here, after I have asked him so many times... Three grandchildren I have, yet this is the first time I have been able to see any of them.”
“I chose to come here.” I replied firmly. Even though I was curious about him, I was aware of the bad things he had done. He killed his own wife! Father spoke of her with such love, and also sadness. Father was within his rights to have this man killed for such a deed. Thinking of how much he loved his mother made me think of how much I loved Mama, and how angry I would be if anyone ever dared to harm her.
“Really? Oh, it's good to know that you seem to have more backbone than your father. Perhaps you'll restore Sozin's dream, hm?”
“We have woken up from Sozin's nightmare and are the better for it. And I get my backbone from Father.” I glanced to my side, seeing a faint smirk on Father's face.
“So I see he has filled your head with grandiose visions of peace and love and all that.” Ozai said 'peace' and 'love' with open disdain. “Such a pity. Sozin's line was destined for such greatness. But you're young yet. You came here to see me because you wanted to, not out of filial piety like your father does. It's too bad his piety doesn't... motivate him further.”
No wonder Father didn't like visiting or even speaking of Ozai. My grandfather's stare was filled with all sorts of emotions... anger, resentment, and even after all this time, arrogance.
“You're my grandfather, yet here you are after all these years, still clinging to the past. What does it have to offer you?” I waved my arm to the cell and his meager possessions. I was pleased to see a glimmer of surprise in his face. “You killed your father and wife. You usurped your brother's birthright. You scarred and banished your son. Was it all worth it?”
He glared at me, clenching his jaw. Before he could speak, I continued. “You and I were given the same luxuries in life. We had the best food, clothing, teachers, all of that. But it wasn't enough for you. You tried to take what was not yours, and ended up losing everything you already had. Yet you try to mock my father.”
I took a deep breath. “When I become Fire Lord, I will be proud to continue my father's legacy. I will teach my children and grandchildren to follow Zuko's dream. And you'll just be stuck in here, hating everyone and everything else just because things didn't go your way. That's all you have here. Just hate. I couldn't think of a colder comfort than that.”
Ozai narrowed his eyes at me, and I heard Father laugh quietly.
“I... just feel sorry for you. Before I came here, I was really curious about you. I mean, you used to be the Fire Lord, and you're also my grandfather. But now...” I shook my head. “I have never known a grandparent. I was hoping that maybe I could learn something from you. But I can see why you're in here, why you're still in here. I can't imagine what would make someone want to kill or maim their own family.” I thought of Mama and my sisters.
“Hnh.” Ozai snorted quietly before retreating from the bars and sitting on his mat. I wondered if he would ever change, if another decade or two in this cell would give him the insight he so desperately needed. Only time would tell.
o0o0o0o
30 Years ASC
(Summer 1131)
Zuko
Though I tried to see Adi – or have her visit me – at least once a year, I was still startled to see her as a woman of marrying age. Actually, Adi had been one of the most eligible women in Fire Nation and Earth Kingdom alike for a few years now, but knowing of how desirable my daughter – and her parents – were as political allies, I wanted a husband for her that didn't see her as a trophy.
Years ago, Toph and I had agreed that we would take great care in deciding Adi's future – and this meant not just choosing a husband for her that we liked, like most rich or powerful parents would. Like her mother, she was very tomboyish, and every time she visited, we had sparring matches, much like Toph and I had when we were traveling with Avatar Aang. Adi had no desire to marry so quickly, and told us this in no uncertain terms once she became sixteen. We were happy to put off the matter of marriage, and encouraged her to continue her education and learning how to rule. She was now Queen proper, Toph having officially stepped down from the regency several years ago.
Inevitably, the matter of marriage had now come up. Adi had been courted by plenty of men, but had turned them all away. However, Adi made a surprising choice for her potential groom.
He was a cousin of Enki, and great-grandson of Bumi. Since Enki's loss of the throne, his entire family had also been stripped of power and privilege. When I first heard who had caught my daughter's attention, I was certain it was a plot by Enki's relatives to try to regain some power for themselves, or at least make sure their house continued through Adi's children.
The noble houses in the Fire Nation did the same thing, of course – I had been offered the most beautiful women from the most powerful families as candidates for Fire Lady or even concubines. It would add prestige to that family, especially if the girl were to bear heirs. And Enki's family certainly wouldn't be the first family to try to ally with Adi. Though Enki and a couple of his cousins and brothers were now lifetime residents at the Boiling Rock, the remainder of the family still had quite a bit of wealth, and a few were now members of the Omashu royal court after pledging loyalty to their new Queen. Toph knew whether their vows were genuine or not, and I wished I had a similar ability with my Firebending, it'd be so much easier to sift through the members of my own court without her help!
I stared at the young man in front of me. I could see the similarity between him and Enki, but both of them had inherited these features from Bumi. Levi was taller and lankier, though. He squirmed just a bit, and looked nervous and almost flustered. I lifted my cup of tea and sipped silently as I kept a level gaze on him, enjoying his discomfiture. Countless fathers had taken pleasure in this in the past, and I certainly was no exception. I wanted my daughter to have the best husband possible. She had already told me she liked him, and they were friends, but I had to see for myself. I would be a shitty father if I didn't do so.
After several moments of terse silence, I finally broke it.
“So you wish to marry my daughter. Why her?”
“I love her.”
“That's not enough.” I replied coolly, staring at him imperiously. I could see his nervousness, but he did his best to keep himself collected.
“I am fully aware of my cousin’s... misdeeds, and...”
“Misdeeds? Ha.”
Levi stiffened, and I had to bite back a smirk. However, what he said next surprised me.
“As I recall, someone in your family was responsible for many misdeeds. Yet you do not wish to be judged for someone else's actions any more than I do.”
Touché. At least this boy had some backbone. I inclined my head in acknowledgment. However, I would not be bested. “You are the one who brought it up. However, that's not what I was talking about. You say you love her. That's nice to hear, but I need more than that. Adi needs more than declarations of love.”
Levi nodded slowly. “I have known her for a couple of years now. She is not a... conventional woman. And I wouldn't expect her to be a conventional wife.”
“A woman who is Queen in her own right certainly could not be considered conventional.”
“Ahh.” Levi gazed at me, obviously understanding what I meant. At least he was faster on the uptake than Enki. “I don't want the crown. I just want to be with Adi. She's a good ruler, and I don't wish to change things. Actually, she's a better ruler than Enki was. I never had the opportunity to meet Bumi, but I've heard lots of good things about him.”
“He was a good man. I was honored to count him as an ally, and so was Toph.”
“I hope that one day, you'll consider it an honor to know me as well.”
o0o0o0o
Katara
I sat next to the pond with Toph as Zeyi splashed around and played in the shallows. I wondered how Zuko was doing with Levi. My husband could be such an intimidating man sometimes. But in the meanwhile, I was just enjoying myself in Bumi's palace. The night before, we had eaten in the banquet hall that Bumi received us in when Sokka and I had first come to Omashu with Aang.
The day was warm, so we took off our shoes and let our feet soak in the water. Toph leaned back on her elbows, looking like anything but the mother of the Queen, clad as she was in a comfortable tunic and calf-length loose pants, her hair pulled back in a plain bun without any ornamentation. It was reassuring to see that life in the lap of luxury hadn't changed who she was. She was a beautiful woman, and successful in her own right, still participating in the Earth Rumbles that were often held in Omashu.
“So you and Kanto are a thing, huh?” I asked teasingly as I glanced over at her. Kanto was one of the few Fire Nation members of the Omashu court, and since I arrived, I had seen them together a couple of times. There was nothing overt – no kissing or holding hands or anything – but I definitely felt a vibe between them.
“Oh yeah.” Toph grinned. “He's pretty cute and fun. And great in bed.”
I laughed softly. Toph refused to get married, saying that it would just 'tie her down'. Honestly, I didn't think anything could tie her down, but it was her life to do with as she pleased, and she had a successful one. And besides, in a man's world, it was great to see a woman assert a role that men usually had. I couldn't imagine having another lover, not when I had such a wonderful husband who was so loyal to me, but I knew that many women were not as lucky. You go, girl.
“He writes poetry, and it's actually good. I can almost see what he's writing about when he reads to me, words usually don't do that for me.” she explained. I nodded. Being blind from birth, Toph couldn't even have the memory of seeing anything like most people did.
“Plus, he likes my feet.” Toph raised one foot, wiggling her toes. “He has this way of sucking on my toes that... ooh!” She shivered pleasurably, and I laughed.
“Looks like Zuko gave you a taste for Fire Nation men, huh?” I teased. After so long, I was at ease with Zuko and Toph's past relationship. Maybe it was the memory of my past lives and relationships, but I was content. After all, I had Zuko's undivided love and loyalty. What was past was past.
“Earthbenders know how to rock things. But once in a while I'm in the mood to heat things up. And I'm sure Sparky heats you up plenty.” she replied with another grin. “Kanto does a good job of doing it for me even if he can't Bend.” We giggled together, like a pair of teenage girls gossiping about our boyfriends.
We chatted for a while more before I saw Zuko emerge from the Palace. Adi was with him, and Levi was at her other side. When Levi had first been introduced to Zuko, his nervousness was obvious despite his attempts to keep himself calm. But now I could see that Adi was smiling, and Levi looked considerably more relaxed than he had before.
“Looks like I have a son-in-law now.” Toph commented.
o0o0o0o
31 Years ASC
(Late Summer 1133)
Zuko
My son looked dignified in his formal wedding robes, and though he kept himself calm and collected, I could see the happiness and excitement in his eyes. My daughter-in-law looked so happy to be with her new husband, and they kept stealing glances at one another through the banquet.
My older daughter had been married last autumn, and now my son had a wife of his own. I couldn't believe both of them were old enough to be married! At least it would be a long while before I would have to think about Zeyi's marriage prospects. I glanced over, seeing Zeyi trying to not fall asleep in my wife's lap, and smiled at them. It was hard to not feel happy tonight, and proud of my son.
He looked so... right with Ying-ying as they danced, their love for the other clearly visible as they gazed at one another. I looked over at the Avatar and Ty Lee, who were looking at their daughter with the same pride I felt for my own child.
“You know what I just thought of?” Katara asked as I looked back at her.
“What is it, my darling?”
“Your blood runs through three elements, and soon enough it will run through all four.” she whispered. I smirked at her as I contemplated that. I had an Earthbender, Firebender, and Waterbender as my children, and who knows, one of my grandchildren might be an Airbender! How many people could say that their bloodline was so diverse? Having the Avatar's daughter as my own daughter-in-law was another tie to Aang and esteemed in the Court's eyes – after all, my mother had been the granddaughter of an Avatar. But political alliance was the furthest thing from my mind, what I wanted most was for Kuzon to be happy and for him to marry a good woman, and Ying-ying met both requirements. She got along well with Katara and me, and treated Zeyi as if she were her own little sister. She would be a good addition to the household.
Kuzon and Ying-ying finished their wedding dance, which meant that now we could all join in. Katara gently eased Zeyi into her nurse's lap before I took her hand and led her onto the floor, joining the others. I wrapped my arms around her snugly as she leaned her head against my shoulder, our bodies swaying and stepping in tune with the beat. I wish Uncle were still alive so he could see all of this.
As the song ended, Aang and Ty Lee approached us, and I obligingly switched partners. It didn't bother me to see Katara dance with Aang. It was almost hard to believe that once upon a time, I would have been greatly bothered see her dance with anybody else.
o0o0o0o
Katara
I could not help but smile at Aang as we danced and take comfort in the warm grip of his hands. I had been surprised at first to learn that Ying-ying was his daughter, but it quickly passed. After all, life was full of surprises.
The song ended, and Kamas took my hands as Aang danced with Peony. This was supposed to be a fun occasion, and I found myself with different partners through the evening, all of us laughing and having a good time. I even shared a dance with Kuzon. He was just an inch shorter than his father, and looked down at me affectionately as he twirled me around. I remembered when he was little, and had danced with me with his feet on mine as I led him. Now he was leading me. As I danced, I looked around seeing others enjoying themselves.
Kysh had come to the wedding with his parents, and when he danced, you could barely notice that he had a limp. He looked rather happy to be dancing with Jasmine, and the way they looked at one another made me wonder what would be in their future. I remember first falling in love with Zuko. Now it was fun to watch others fall in love.
As I danced with Kamas, I recalled the first time we had done so, when he and Zuko came to Omashu for the summit. Ever since then, Kamas and I had a good working relationship. He was a good friend to Zuko and I, and a respected peer, always treating me with respect – not merely because I was the wife of his lord – but as a person.
“Remember our first dance in Omashu?” I asked with a small smile. He returned the smile as he looked down at me.
“I do, indeed. It is an honor dancing with you, my lady.”
“Have I ever told you how much I appreciate your efforts to make me feel at home here?”
“You don't need to.”
“Well, I'm going to say thank you anyway.” We both laughed.
Soon enough, I found myself dancing with Aang again, this time in a slow dance. We didn't speak, and simply enjoyed ourselves, like we did so many years ago.
o0o0o0o
Kuzon
I looked around, seeing how much fun everyone was having. Mama had used her Waterbending to create several ice-sculptures for the banquet, including one of Ying-ying and myself. One of the others was a volcano, wine flowing from it instead of lava. I scooped my goblet into the pool of wine at the bottom, savoring the sweet, spicy taste of the alcohol as it warmed my stomach. I was nervous about my wedding night.
I had never been intimate with a girl before. I knew there were plenty of young women who would be eager to come to my bed if I asked it of them, but I didn't want intimacy with someone who was just dazzled by my status and what I could give them. At Court and during parties and functions, I had met young women. Some were pretty. Others were smart. I did meet some nice girls, but my thoughts always returned to Ying-ying. I just felt so... comfortable around her, and the time we spent together was always happy. Surely Mama and Father felt this way around one another, I could see it in their faces and hoped that Ying-ying and I would always be like that.
However, I was not sure if she would want to become part of Palace life, because I knew all too well the responsibilities that came with my position. Life in the circus was different, and sometimes I wondered what it would be like if I lived like Ying-ying and her mother. I had been so anxious when I asked her to marry me, and nearly fainted when she said 'yes'.
But here we were. I glanced at my wife, smiling at her and trying to not show her how nervous I was. She looked so different in the elaborate wedding robes and headdress, the light of the lamps reflecting off the many jewels in her attire.
Finally, it was time for us to retire for the night. I had to try hard to not blush as I heard the well-wishes and teasing. Father had already given me some advice, but at the moment, I couldn't recall any of it. My heart was pounding as Ying-ying and I walked to our bedchamber. It was prepared in the usual Fire Nation tradition, with good-luck charms hanging from the bedpost and bowls of fruit on the nightstands for fertility, and the bedspread with its embroidered dragons, lotus flowers, and children to symbolize potency and fertility. Seeing these special things set up for my wedding night just made me more nervous.
Servants waited for us, and I watched as Ying-ying was led off for her bath. I was happy for the distraction of removing my fancy robes and taking a shower, but when I came out and saw everything, I became nervous again, and sat on the edge of the bed. What if I did not satisfy my bride? What if I was a bad husband?
The door opened and closed, and I let out a soft sigh before my wife approached me, clad in a cream-colored silk robe that hugged her curves. Dear Agni, she is so beautiful...
And she sure as hell didn't look nervous. Not even the least bit. And here I was, as anxious as a bride was supposed to be on her wedding night! I stared at her as she crawled onto the bed without hesitation, making her way towards me. I stiffened as she touched my arm, and she blinked at me before she sat back.
“Is something wrong, Kuzon? Do you not desire me?”
“What? Of course I desire you! I would not consider anyone else for my wife.”
“Then what's wrong?” She touched my shoulder. “Oh, you're so tense!”
“I... I...” Saying I was nervous seemed like a stupid idea. Me, the mighty Crown Prince of the Fire Nation, nervous about sex! I would be laughed at if anyone knew! She drew closer, wrapping her arms around my shoulders, her breasts pressing against my back as I felt her nuzzle the side of my face.
“Darling, I'm your wife now. Tell me what's the matter, and I'll take care of it...” She cooed softly, pressing her lips to my temple.
“I worry that... I might not be able to satisfy you...” I let out a quiet sigh. “I'm... I mean...I've never...”
I heard a quiet gasp. Was that good or bad?
“Kuzon? You mean, you've never... not even once?”
“No.” I let my head hang as if I was ashamed of myself. “I didn't want to be... intimate with someone that I didn't care about. I wanted it to be... special.” The thought of having a concubine felt so... hollow. I know Father felt the same way because he had never seemed happy with his concubines before he married Mama.
“Oh, Kuzon!” This time I heard surprised delight in her voice. “Oh, that is so sweet!”
I blushed before she hugged me fiercely. “You really are the best husband in the world!”
“You think so?” I smiled faintly. She nodded.
“Hey, if it's any consolation, it's my first time, too.” she admitted. “So just relax and have fun.” She started rubbing my shoulders, and I closed my eyes and let out a quiet moan. Her fingers worked down my back, nimble and graceful, and I let out a shudder when she hit a certain spot that caused a flush of warmth to spread through my body.
“See, massage isn't good for only relaxation...” I heard her whisper.
“What a good wife you are.” I teased, and heard her soft giggle.
o0o0o0o
Zuko
Katara and I strolled to my apartment, her arm hooked through mine. It had been a long night, but seeing my son being married reminded me of my own wedding night. And how much pleasure Katara and I had on our own special night...
As I closed the door behind us, I looked down at her with a smirk.
“Who says the young people get all the fun?” I asked with a low purr.
“Who says we're old?” she shot back, a mischievous smile on her pretty face.
“Very well then, let me amend that. Who says the very young people get all the fun?”
“That's better. You have a long way to go before being old, after all.” She reached up to touch my face, caressing my cheeks.
“No matter how old I become, my passion will always burn for you, and only you.”
“Good to know.” She grabbed my hand before leading me to our bed. “There's always time enough for love.” She pulled me down on top of her, tugging open my robe. I growled at her playfully before my lips descended to her neck.
When we were done, I lay there contently, listening to the sounds of our breathing as we basked in the glow of our shared passion. What more could I ask for?
Thank you, Agni. For bringing her back to me. I looked down at her. She raised her head and smirked at me before wiggling against me and climbing on top of me. She reached down with one hand, and I arched upwards into her touch. I was no longer seventeen, but my fire burned as hot as it had always... I looked up at her with a wolfish grin, reaching up to touch her and explore her body as I stared up into the azure eyes that had stolen my heart in what almost seemed like another lifetime. I would always burn for her.
o0o0o0o
35 Years ASC
(Spring 1137)
???
The full moon shone down on us as I circled around my prisoner.
“Where is the Avatar?” I growled as I stared at my captive, my tone imperious and demanding. I knew I was an impressive sight in my custom-fitted armor, its gold details polished and reflecting the moonlight. Eyes were stubbornly averted from mine, a scowl gracing the lips as I placed my hands on my hips.
“Now, let's be reasonable. You're tied to a tree, after all. There's no use being defiant. You will tell me what I want.” I took a step forward.
“Never!” came the reply.
I took another step forward, placing my hands on the blue shirt and grabbing its collar.
“Why must this be so difficult? I have but one simple question! And then you can go free, just like that.”
Defiant eyes fixed upon me, and the silence was broken only by the quiet sounds of waves lapping on the pond. I slowly circled around again, running my fingers along fingers, arms, shoulders... satisfied to feel a shudder as I ran my fingers along a smooth jawline.
“Give me what I want...” I hissed into an ear.
“You don't want the Avatar.”
“Oh? Who are you to tell me what I do or do not want?” I asked.
“I have something better.”
“What could you possibly offer that's better than an Avatar?”
“Me.”
“Oh?” I asked with a curious purr as I traced my fingers along my prisoner's throat.
“The Avatar could never give you what I could.” This was said in a purr to rival my own. I smirked before I tugged open the shirt, revealing an expanse of pale skin stretched taut over lean, rippling muscle.
“Abandon your quest. You have a far worthier prize here. I am all yours.” My prisoner puffed out his chest, emphasizing his strength. I looked up into golden eyes.
Role reversal was so much fun.
o0o0o0o
Hope you liked the fun little scene I tacked on here. I figured, I already did Ninja!Zutara and Blue!Paint, so why not go all the way back and do something inspired from the classic 'The Waterbending Scroll' scene where Zuko had her tied to a tree? ZUTARA FTW! As always, reviews and feedback are greatly appreciated.
For those of you who follow my original works (and published novels) I have created an author Facebook I am using for my nom-de-plume and my novels. You can follow me there for publication information, sneak peeks, to ask me questions, and more! My Facebook name is Mxm Kin, id number 100002454774004. In the meanwhile, I'll be working on the last two parts of this lovely tale!
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Kiss of Fire