Adult-FanFiction.org : Cartoons

Can Fire melt? Ask the Earth	By : SSjJaden Category: Avatar - The Last Airbender > Het - Male/Female > Toph/Zuko Views: 13993 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- 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
- 5
- 6
- 7
Hi guys, this is another chapter to my FF. I’m very thankful for the reviews. To answer TheSarcasticOne: no there is no Zuko+Azula. It’s just sibling love, not the real love. This chapter is a milestone. Why? Zuko+Toph! Read and find out…

The Sun slowly crept over the horizon. Aang and Toph were sitting over the burnt out fire, talking all night. Zuko’s letter made a great impact on them. Sokka was relieved that Zuko was on their side, totally oblivious to the fact, that Toph could actually gain her sight. He was the first who went back to sleep. Katara who was more mature, sensed Toph’s inner battle, tried to comfort her, to decide wisely. Unfortunately, she wasn’t in the mood to be comforted, so Katara finally drifted back to sleep.

Aang stayed awake with Toph. He understood than she now needed a silent comfort, just a presence which showed her that she’s not alone. He spoke to her during the night, but not about the medicine, but about regular things, like food or clothing.

Toph, herself was relieved that Aang got the message. She never liked when someone tried to help her. She was strong enough to keep her own weight. And, although she learned that teamwork and friendship is not bad, she still liked individuality. Aang reached for the letter again, and read it several times. He raised a brow.

„What’s this ’Illa nuromo kori ai’? I can’t understand it.” Aang asked. Toph smirked.

„It’s a poetry-language used by the Earth Kingdom's high nobility. They write poetry and books with this language. It sais: ’My thoughts with you.’.” Aang sighed.

„Oookaay… that’s nice. So his thoughts are with you.”

„No, Arrowhead, it means he’s thinking about me.” Toph snapped, blushing furiously. She herself didn’t know why she was this snappy. That sentence… what she was talking with Katara about…

Ever since they left the hijacked ship, Toph made an earth-tent every night, locking herself in. Usually she was thinking about the feeling which were growing stronger day by day. Sometimes she even touched herself. Katara often asked her, and surprisingly Toph had quite comfortable chats with the other girl. She discovered, that Katara handled her secrets well, and she felt that she could trust her with the deepest, most personal things in her hearth.

When Toph first opened up to her on the ship, after Aang woke, Katara felt lucky. She was glad. The Earthbender girl was always closed, only teaching Aang, occasionally having a sarcastic comment on their every day life. It was so strange to hear Toph admitting feelings.

Sokka and Katara started to stir in their sleeping-bags. The girl was the first to wake, sitting up, yawning.

„I had the strangest dream, ever.” She said, streching her arms. „I dreamt that Sokka kissed Azula.”

„Who kissed who?” came the question from the sleeping-bag called Sokka.

„You kissed Azula.” Katara turned to her brother, who finally sat up.

„Yeah right, next time I’m going to hug the Fire Lord.” He smirked, and stood. „I’m going to wash up. See ya later.” And he walked off to a little lake near their campsite. Katara strode over to Aang and sat beside him.

„You two didn’t sleep all night?” she asked. Toph shook her head and Katara sighed. She wanted to ask her about the medicine, but Aang’s serious stare silenced her. Instead, she choose a different topic.

„We don’t have much time.” She turned to Aang. „You said that regardless the solution of phase two, Zuko will come around, and we’ll break Iroh out. And he wrote a week from now?” Aang nodded.

„Yeah, I thougt the same thing. We are not near the capital. We have to travel a lot to find that village called Cindergland. Plus we have to find a good place to hide Appa.” Katara sighed, and looked at Toph. She knew she shouldn’t speek about it, but she had to. Time was short.

„Look, Toph. I know that your decision is hard, but you have to think about it. You have to decide.” Katara awaited her angry comment to leave it alone, but she was surprised to see Toph shaking her head.

„I’ve already decided Katara. I will drink it.” Aand looked at the remains of their fire. He knew she’s going to drink it. Sokka returned, his long hair wet, not in a ponytail yet. When he saw the three sitting there he stopped. Momo flew on his shoulder.

„What’s up with them?” Momo just looked at him with his green eyes. Sokka just started to make his sleeping-bag. He tied it, and threw it on top of the waking Appa. He grew a bit irritated by their behaviour.
Of course, he understood what Toph was going through, but he was utterly disappointed in her. She was strong like the Earth she bended, and she always knew what she wanted. But now…

„Hey, your stuff won’t pack themselves! Move up!” he snapped at them. „Toph, you just drink that juice and be done with it. Time is wasting, and we’re just sitting here doing nothing! We have to get to that village.” His voice was like a whip. Everyone looked at him in disbelief. Toph finally laughed a bit, than stood.

„You’re right. I’m being a sissy. I already decided, that I’ll do it, so I will. No more time to lose.” Katara was amazed. She never thought that it will be Sokka who finally snaps Toph out of her daydream. She laughed herself, and stood with Aang beside her. Her brother’s simplicity had had it’s effects sometimes.

They all packed, and soon, they were in the air on Appa’s back. Sokka was sitting on the bison’s head, holding the strings. Aang handed the small vial to Toph. She felt it’s shape, it’s material.

„So I’ll be out for a day.”

„Don’t worry, we’ll be flying for more than a day. You’ll be safe.” Aang reassured her. Toph sighed deeply, and searched for the seal on the small glass. Her fingers finally found it, and ripped it off. Even in the wind she could smell the liquid’s strong smell. It wasn’t so nasty as she thought it’ll be. She braced herself, then drank it and with one gulp, she swallowed it. Almost instantly, she felt her eyelids close, the darkness claiming her. One sentence she whispered as she fell into unconsciousness.

„Illa nuromo kori ai.”

*

„Where am I?” his voice echoed around him. Nothingness. Blinding light. Apart from that he was in the Void… What did he hear? Laughter? Who was it? He felt a touch… a small hand in his. He turned. He was totally naked. So was the girl… Who was she? He didn’t know. He didn’t see. The light.

”Be mine…” she whispered. „All mine… I love you…” He tried to see her face, but his eyes closed, and he couldn’t open them. He felt her lips on his… muscular legs, wrapping around his hips… arms around his neck… small but strong fingers in his hair. A warm tounge searching his mouth. He felt a moist warmth around his loin. Finally, the girl lowered herself, until he filled her completely. Only then was he able to open his eyes. He couldn’t saw her features because of the light… but he could see her eyes… stunning, unbelievably green eyes… shining emeralds…

„Be mine… I love you… Zuko…”

Zuko jerked awake. He sat up on his bed. His body was sweaty, his hair a mess. What was that all about?

Four days ago, he sent the letter. Time was almost up. He had to start his journey to Cindergland. It wasn’t too far from where he was, but it was still a good day trip. He stood, and walked to his window. The sun was just creeping up the sky.

Why did he sent that vial? Why did he asked Mai to get it? Why did he concerned himself with this at all? Who cares about a blind Earthbender? She can carry her own weight. She lived this long without sight. So, who cares?

-You do.- a voice in his mind said. Zuko sighed, and smiled.

„Yeah, right. I want the Avatar to trust me. That is all.”

-No. That is what you want to believe.-

„What should I feel, huh? I saw her only twice, and never longer than a few seconds. I feel nothing.”

-It’s simply remarkable how much you can fool yourself. You feel something. You know it.-

„Why do I even speek to myself? I’m going nuts.” Zuko went to his wardrobe to find some clothes for the journey ahead.

*

Toph was sitting on a rock, at a bank of a small river. All around her was a wast grass field. Her eyes were closed. She dared not to opend them.

„Open your eyes Toph.” A deep voice behind her said.

„No.” Her voice was cracking and high pinched.

„Why not?”

„I’m afraid.”

”Of what?”

„What I might see…”

„What are you afraid of?”

„Myself. How I look like.”

„Oh?”

„I never really gave any thought how I might look, and I never cared. I was blind. But now… if I can see…”

„Open your eyes.”

Toph silently obliged. The voice was really familiar to her ears, but still, she couldn’t understand why. Her eyelids slowly risen. Something stung into her eyes, something burning, something which brought tears into them. She tried to shield herself, but the burning feeling nearly consumed her. Slowly but surely, however, the uncomfortable feeling subsided.

„That is called ’light’. It’s mainly coming from the Sun, so watch it. If you’re looking at it for too long, you may damage you’re eyes.”

„Man, it’s painful.” She whispered, and looked around. „So this is a river, eh? Blue. This is green? The grass? The sky…” she looked up, again with tears in her eyes, but not the tears of pain, but of happiness.

„I can see…” the discovery sank in slowly, the feeling running through her whole body.

„Look at yourself in the water. You’re reflection.” And she did. For the first time in her life, Toph Bei Fong saw her own face. Her hand came up to her cheeks, her fingers stroke the smooth skin.

„See? You are beautiful. You need not fear.” The voice said. Toph turned to face the one speaking. It was a boy, or rather a young man. He was tall, he had dark brown hair and golden eyes. On the left side of his face, he had a large burn. Toph knew who he was. Seeing him brought tears into her eyes again. She reached out with her hands, and he closed the gap bethween them, hugging her body tightly. She looked up to his face, and he smiled. His lips lowered on hers, metting in a soft kiss. His lips were soft, yet strong. It tasted like heaven for her… He broke the kiss, than looked into her eye.

„Wake up, Toph.” He whispered. „Time to wake up. You slept enough in darkness.”

*

„Zuko.” Toph whispered, then opened her eyes. She saw the blue sky, and some fluffy things she thought were clouds. She sat up and looked around. Through the blinding light, she saw three figures. One, was a tall boy, with brown hair, and a ponytail on top. He had blue clothes, and was facing to where they were heading. Sokka. He was talking to another figure who Toph recognised as Aang. The Avatar has grown a short brown hair. He looked short, athletic. The third one was Katara. A tall girl with dark brown hair and dark skin, shining blue eyes and the same blue clothing Sokka had. All three of them were in a serious looking argument.

„I say we are heading in the right direction!” Sokka yelled. He had a large map in his lap, and Momo was sitting on top of his head.

„Don’t think so genious.” Katara answered. „It’s not yet noon, so the Sun is still on the East! We should have our backs to it! The village is to the West!”

„Sozin is to the west, and Cindergland is west from Sozin!” Sokka shouted. „Which means, if we head due west, we’ll fly through the capital of the Fire Nation!”

„Sokka’s right.” Aang said to Katara in a calm voice. „We’ll fly a bit north, than northwest than stricktly west. We have to avoid Fire Nation at all costs.” Katara crossed her hands across her chest.

„Looks like a plan to me!” Toph suddenly said. All three of them turned to her, gaping madly. Then all of them crawled to her side.

„Toph, you okay?” Sokka asked.

„Toph, you’re eyes…” Aang started.

„Can you see? You’re eyes are not gray anymore…” Katara said.

„Yes, yes, I can see!” she exclaimed. Although her voice sounded bossy and strickt, she was smiling madly. All the things she saw were simply breathtaking. The blue sky, the brown and gold land beneath them. She could finally see Appa and Momo, and more importantly, her friends.

”Hey, you’re not so bad lookin’ Sokka.” She teased, and hit his shoulder playfully. He smiled.

„Well, took you long enough to admit it.” He smiled „I’m handsome.”

„Yeah, you’re light shined through her blindness, didn’t it?” Katara laughed.

„Aang, help me out here?”

„Count me out, I’m happy she’s not bothering me.”

„Thanks a lot Bro.”

„Anytime.”

„Don’t worry Twinkle-toes. You’re next…”

They laughed and joked all day. When they drifted into sleep, Toph looked at the Moon and the Stars, finally experiencing the sight herself. Katara told her, that her eyes were now pure emerald green. She said they’re beautiful.

„Thank you. Illa nuromo kori ai, Zuko.” Toph whispered as she closed her eyelids.

*

Zuko opened the door to the Locust Tavern. It was a decent place, clean and warm. He was brought here by Iroh once, and it was a pleasant experience. The food was good here. The Innkeeper was Gloria, a fat woman who always had a wide smile on her face. He closed the door behind him.

„Welcome, welcome sweety, what can I help you with?” asked Gloria from behind her counter.

„A room and warm lunch.” Was all Zuko said, and threw three gold pieces to her. He was on the stairs leading to the upper level when her voice reached him. „The third room to the right is free!”

He went to the named room, and when inside, he threw his bag on top of the bed. In the room was only a small wardrobe, a table with a chair and a bed. Zuko himself fell on the chair, and sighed. He was a day early. The Avatar should arrive tomorrow. His head fell into his hands, as he reacalled the past few days.

*FLASHBACK*

He stood in her room. Azula’s body was still limp, her breaths low but steady. Her coma was taking longer than he had thought. He had to leave, he just couldn’t let Uncle Iroh be executed.

„Azula…” he whispered. He sat down beside her, placing his palm on her face. His fingers stroke her warm skin. „I know you can hear me. I have to leave now. I promise I’ll be back for you. You are my Sister, Azula. These past days, you showed me more of you’re love towards me, than in the past twelve hears. I love you, Sis.” Zuko then stood, and exited the room, his hearth heavy…

*END OF FLASHBACK*

Zuko went down to eat his ordered meal. It was fried chicken with fire sauce. Hís favourite. As he ate, he looked around, and watched the other guests. Nothing special in particular, they were old or drunk people. Or both. Zuko ate in silence.

The four were standing in front of a huge gate. On it, was the name ’Cindergland’.

„Wow.” Sokka exclaimed. „I didn’t know Fire Nation villages had gates.”

„So how do you think we get in?” Aang asked.

„What do you think, Twinkle-toes? We knock.” Toph said as a matter-of-factly. Aang reaised his eyebrow at that.

„Toph’s right.” Katara laughed. „Look at us! We’re Fire Nation right now.” Aang shook his head. How could he forget?

The group had to make a little detour because of their clothing. It wasn’t really wise to wander around in the Fire realm in Water Tribe clothes. So they had to go to a village and steal some clothes. The action itself wasn’t really good. Stealing is wrong. But they had to get some clothes, and they had no Fire money.

Aang had a dark red vest with long red shirt, baggy gray trousers and pointy boots. Sokka had the same, except the vest, and his shirt had no sleeves. Katara clothed in a long skirt and a bandage-like top covered her breasts. She made her long hair in Fire Nation style. Toph had a dark orange top and baggy dark red trousers, which she cut and tied it around under her knees. She had the treads of her shoues removed, so she could Earthbend. All of them now looked traditional, normal Fire Nation teenagers.

Sokka walked over to the gates, and banged it with his fists. Seconds later, a guard showed up on top of the walls.

„Who goes there?” he shouted from above.

„Just four kids! Can you open the gates? We need some food and supplies!” Sokka answered.

„Of course, wait a sec.” The guard disappeared, than with a loud noise, the gate slowly started to open. When the space was enough for them to cross, they did, and the gate closed again.

„Talk about tight security…” Aang muttered.

„So this is how a Fire Nation village is like!” Katara mused. She looked around the white houses. The whole place looked beautiful in the sundown. People walking here and there, the day business finally done, the market was closing.

„All we have to do now, is to find that Inn, Zuko was writing about.” Sokka said.

„You wait here.” Said Katara to Aang and Toph „We’ll ask around.” And she grabbed Sokka’s hand and strode off to a potatoe seller to ask some questions.

Top ran her fingers through her hair. She’ll soon meet him. She couldn’t believe it. The feelings inside of her only grew stronger after her dream.

Aang saw how Toph rummaged her hair, trying to comb it with her fingers. Toph saw this, and immidiately stopped.

„What?” she snapped at Aang.

„Nothing.” He answered.

„Why were you staring.”

„I wasn’t staring.”

„You did.”

„Okay, but just a little.”

„Not funny Twinkle-toes.”

„Relax Toph, I was just…” he couldn’t finish, because Sokka and Katara came back.

„We know now where it is.” Katara said. „Let’s go.”

While walking, Toph again, ran her fingers through her hair. Will she be good enough for him. She smirked. Oh yeah, and why should he feel something for her? They only saw each-other twice, not longer than a few seconds. She felt nothing. He felt nothing. Then why does she always trying to look decent for a change?!

Through the vibrations of the ground, she felt Katara’s steps slowing, and finally she was walking beside her. Toph knew she wanted to say something. Say it. Say it goddamn you!

„We’ll soon be there.” Finally!

„Okay.”

„Maybe he’s already there.” Oh, now I know you’re point Katara.

„So what?” Katara raised a brow.

„I thought you might want to see him again.”

„Who gave you that idea, Sugar-queen?” Katara looked downright hurt.

„Well, sorry for caring!” she snapped, and walked over to Aang and Sokka.

Toph looked at her back. That’s what you got if you’re in someone else’s business! But still… it was a bit rude for her to tell off Katara like this. She was only trying to be friendly. And honestly: she did want to see him again.

Just when Toph was about to apologize to Katara, Sokka stopped.

„We’re here!” he motioned to a small building with red roof and white walls. A sign was on it’s door. It was a neatly drawn picture of a locust.

”C’mon, let’s go in!” said an ever curious Aang, and opened the entrance door.

Inside were ten or fifteen small round tables, all having guests, drinking. Behind the wooden counter, a fat lady was cleaning some bowls and plates. When the door opened, she looked up, and saw the group.

„Oh, come in dears! What can I help you with?” she said in a kind voice. Katara was the one who answered.

„Actually we’re looking for someone. He’s a boy, as tall as my brother here, has brown hair, and gold eyes.”

„With a scar on his left eye? Up the stairs, third room to the right!” she smiled.

„Thank you!” Katara said, than turned to the group. „Toph, could you please go up and find him? We’ll try to get a table. I’m dying of hunger!”

„You said it!” exclaimed Sokka and started to fight his was around the tables to find an empty one. Toph saw Katara wink at her before following the boys. Toph was glad that Katara wasn’t angry with her but still… she going to a room alone with Zuko? Oh, bad picture. Or, is it that bad?

She shook her head wildly to get rid of the thoughts. They’re here on business. Stricktly Avatar business. No mushy talk.

Toph walked up the stairs, and stood in front of the third door to the right. She raised her hand to knock, but froze. C’mon Toph! What’s wrong with you?!
She shook her head again, and knocked on the door. Seconds passed, and nothing. She knocked again, louder. Then she felt some movement from inside. Zuko maybe was sleeping, and now he stood from the bed. She felt his steps, as he approached the door. His scent broke into her nostrils as he stood before the door. The feeling she felt under Ba Sing Se returned, as strong as ever. Her legs almost failed her, but she could stand still. All she wanted now is to brake the door open, and jump on him, the source of this intoxicating scent. She heard the noise of a key inserted into a lock. So he was locking his room? Just like she used to.

„Who is it?” he asked before he turned the key. For several seconds she tried to answer, but her voice failed her. Finally, when she found it, she answered.

„We’re here. For the meeting.” Her voice felt different. Softer and more girlish than she ever sounded. She blushed, when he finally turned the key, and opened his door. Toph almost fainted.

He was standing there, long brown hair a mess from sleeping. He had only his pants on, his muscular arms and chest shining in the light of the setting Sun. His golden eyes fixated into her emerald ones. So many feelings in there. His scent… She knew then. This was the first time she saw him in reality, and she understood her feelings completly. She understood. Katara was right.

I love him…

*

Zuko awoke, hearing a knock on his door. First he thought he imagined it, so he tried to sleep back, but then someone knocked again. He sighed, and stood. Only in his pants, he grabbed the key to his room from the table, and walked to the door. He slid the key into the lock, but then his sixth sense kicked in, and he asked.

„Who is it?” for seconds only silence, but then he felt something. A scent… a scent he was sure he smelled somewhere before… it was a smell of mint. Then he heard the voice.

„We’re here. For the meeting.” The voice was soft and sweet. He knew. Only once he heard her speek, but he knew instantly who it it. His sixth sense told him. It was her. Zuko opened the door.

She was standing there in a top and pants, all in Fire Nation colours. He had to admit… red went well with her. Her eyes… they were the most beautiful green he had ever seen. Her figure, her hair, her face, and oh those eyes. She was perfect. Perfect.

For minutes they were simply staring at each-other, than Zuko snapped out of his stupor, and shook his head.

„Oh, please come in!” the girl looked a bit uneasy, her cheeks in a crimson blush.

„Umm the others are waiting downstairs. I should join them I think.” Toph, what are you saying? Are you running away? He gave you a chance to get into his room!

„Please, just come in.” He said again Zuko never though he could master such an inviting voice. He was a bundle of nerves righ now. A girl in his room was just… weird. Of course Azula, Mai and Ty Lee were all in his room, but this time was different. But why was it?

She nodded, than walked in sheepishly. Inside, Toph was screaming. –You idiot! Act like youself! He has no feelings towards you. Act normally. You’re an Earthbender. You are strong.-

„Well… I think I should dress.” He muttered, as he searched his bag for clothes. He found a dark red vest, and pulled it on, his arms still bare. He found his long boots, and pulled them on as well. He rummaged his bag still, searching for something Ty Lee gave him. He found the dark red leather gloves, and wrapped them on his hands. These, as Ty Lee said, were special gloves with specially weaved leather which enabled him to bend in them. The gloves had their fingers cut down, for more mobility.

„Okay, let’s go.” Zuko finally said, and turned to the girl. She was standing there, looking around. She was so beautiful there. –What did you say? Oh my God, no…-

„I see the medicine worked.” He whispered. Toph turned to him, and smiled.

”Yes. I’m thankful for it. I… never though I’ll gain sight. I just… can’t say how much this means to me…”

Zuko raised his hand „Just say thank you, and we’re even.” Toph bowed, still smiling.

„Thank you.”

„Anytime.” Zuko knew he forgot something, but didn’t know what. But then it hit him. How could he be this stupid!

„What’s your name?” It was incredible: all this time he didn’t know her name.

„Toph Bei Fong.”

„I’m Zuko.”

„Yeah, I know. So, let’s go. The others are waiting.” Finally Toph could regain something of herself. Zuko nodded, then followed her out, and closed his door.

*

„Where the hell are they?” Sokka exclaimed angrily. He was hungry as hell, and they had no money, so they could rely only on Zuko. Katara smacked his arm.

„Be patient. Toph has a lot to thank him. Give them time.”

„Well, I hope this ’thanking’ won’t consider what I think it is…”

„Sokka!”

„Look, there they are!” Aang pointed to the stairs, and saw Toph descending, and behind her walked Zuko. Katara was shocked at first how much he had changed. When they were in the catacombs, he looked always angry and arrogant, but now… he looked much older than what he was. Older and more powerful. He had this strange aura around him…

”Oi, here!” Aang waved to them. Toph started to walk over to them, but Zuko went to the counter to find the Innkeeper.

„I hope he’s ordering food.” Sokka said, gulping. „I’m soo hungry I could eat Appa.” Toph sat down at an empty chair.

„You just do that. I’m a bit more interested in this chicken he’ll order. He said it’s his favourite and he’ll love if we’re taste it. You know, to khm... how did he say? ’To simbolise our cooperation’.”

„That’s sweet.” Sokka said with a mocking voice.

„I think it’s a very friendly gesture.” Katara smiled at Aang who too awaited the meal. Five minutes later, Zuko came back from behind the counter, poising five wooden plates. It was a miracle how he walked around the tables, never letting a plate fall. He finall reached the group, and put a plate in front of everyone. Toph could see chopped up meat on it in a strange red sauce. Zuko sat down to his own, and raised his fork.

„This is my favourite food. Roasted chicken in Fire sauce. It may taste a bit different from what you are used to.”

„Hey!” Sokka pointed to Aang’s plate. „He has no chicken.”

„Yes, I though the Avatar didn’t eat meat.” Zuko said a bit surprised. „I gave him vegetables. Was I wrong?”

„No, you were right.” Aang licked his lips, and started eating. Sokka too started, with an appetite of a bison.

Toph and Katara were more civilised, and tried to flavour every bite. Zuko ate just as slowly. They ate in silence. Katara had to admit, she felt a bit of awkvardness at first, but she found out that having a dinner with Zuko was decent. It felt so… right. She watched Toph, who bethween bites, glanced in Zuko’s way.
She smiled.

When they finished, the Innkeeper came and cleaned away their plates, and handed Zuko a large jug and put five wooden mugs on the table. Zuko poured of the dense emerald liquid, and motioned them to drink. They all tasted it catiously, but after the first nip, they drank it in one gulp.

„I see this caught you’re interest.” Zuko smiled and poured again.

„What is this? It tastes like the marzipan-milk drink what my parents always drank.” Said Toph. Zuko laughed a bit.

”Well, almost. This does contain marzipan, but it also spiced with cinnamon and pistachio. It’s what we drink in the Fire Nation.”

„It’s simply delicious!” Katara exclaimed, and now not even Sokka had a sarcastic sentence.

When they finished the jug, Zuko motioned them to follow him up to his room. They walkep up silently, and when in it, he closed the door with the key.

„Okay, I think it’s time to plan our moves.” He said. Katara and Aang sat on his bed, Toph sat on the floor, her back to the wardrobe, and Sokka was on the chair. Zuko walked to the window, looking at the now dark sky.

„Don’t you think it’s a bit dark in here?” Sokka asked. Wwith a flick of his finger, Zuko lighed two candles in his room. Sokka just stared.

„Never mind.”

„So where is this prison?” Toph asked. Zuko pointed out of the window.

„Five kilometers due north. It’s not the Fire Nation’s best prison, but still strong. We will have no problem in getting there. Easy in, easy out.” Sokka juststared at him in disbelief.

„Easy in and out?” Katara asked. „Then why did you need our help?” Zuko smiled.

„It is an easy in and out because you’re here. Aang’s an Airbender, Earthbender and Waterbender all in one. Toph’s and Earthbender and you’re a Waterbender. Sokka here is a great tactician, or so I was told.”

„Well, I try to live up to my reputation…” Sokka laughed.

„I see now…” said Aang. „So you needed our bending ability…”

„And more…” answered Zuko, and faced Aang. „I needed you. My Uncle now think I’m a traitor to him. He thinks I killed you. I need you to make him think I did no such thing.”

„Well…” Toph started. „Technically you did kill him.”

„That’s beside the point.” Zuko hurriedly said. „He lives now.”

„Yeah, because Katara could heal him.” Sokka pointed out.

„But I knew she could do it.”

„But what if she couldn’t have?” Zuko shook his head.

„Look, I’m sorry, all right? I tried to save everyone in there. I saw a loophole and I jumped at it!”

„Or…” said Katara „You could have fought on our side.” Zuko turned to the window again, his back to them.

„No.” He said simply. „If I would have chosen that, I would have to kill Azula.”

„So?” Katara asked, but when she did, she put her hands on her mouth. „Oh, Zuko I’m sorry. I didn’t…”

„It’s okay Katara.” He said, still not turning back. „I understand you’re feelings. But… Azula’s still my Sister. No matter who she is, or what she’s doing. For years I tried to kill her myself, because I thought I hated her. You know what? I never hated her. I was jelous, because she was so perfect. She was the rightful heir to the Throne, not me. But in these few days, I have seen her other side. Not her cold and ruthless self, but the other one. She had soo much feelings inside. I had to help her.” He felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned, and saw Toph behind him, smiling.

„Don’t worry Zuko. We understand.” She said Aang stood from his bed.

„Yes, and we’ll going to help you.” He smiled at Katara, who stood as well.

„You bet we will.” She said and looked at Sokka, who scratched his head.

„Breakig into a prison, rescuing a Fire Nation general with the Fire Prince to save the Fire Princess who tried to kill us several. Times. What are we waiting for? Let’s roll!”

„Thank you. All of you.” Zuko muttered. He felt really grateful to these people. He, Prince Zuko was their enemy for so long, wanted to capture them for so long, and still they agreed to help him.

„Rest now. We’re going at midnight. You still have a few hours to rest. After you wake, we’re going to rescue Uncle.”

*

Zuko was watching the stars. He was sitting on the roof of the inn, not able to sleep. He was really confused. He was sure, that the Avatar’s group accepted him, but still, it was very awkvard to call them on their names. Zuko thought of the Earthbender girl, Toph. She was so beautiful in the red garment of the Fire Nation. And her eyes… He just couldn’t forget her eyes. Those shining emeralds, full of sweet emotions…

Zuko heard someone approach, and he turned to see who it is, It was the Avatar, Aang. He looked strange in these Fire student’s outfit. He had to wrap a scarf around his forehead to hide his arrow. Zuko understood how he may felt about this. He too had to hide his trademark scar a thousand times.

„Can’t sleep?” he asked. Aang walket to him, and sat down beside him.

„No.” He sighed. „So, Zuko. You really think Azula can change sides?” Zuko shook his head.

„I don’t know. She was so different after our duel. She… she cried. To me. And when I hugged her, she hugged back. It was so strange. For a second it looked like she even loved me… as brother. I was her big Brother for a few minutes. It was so right, you know? What could make siblings fight with each-other?”

„You’re right.” Aang said. He looked at the stars too. „Azula is a human after all. She is capable of love.”

”Yes. I think so too.” They spent some minutes in silence. Aang finally looked at him.

„Remember when Zhao captured me? When you busted me out?” Zuko smiled.

„Yeah, I do. Quite a rush, wasn’t it?” Aang laughed.

„It sure was. After it… when you awoke… I asked you a question. Remember?”

„You asked if I could be your friend. To stop the fighting.”

„Yes. And you know… I’m glad that time has come.”

„Me too, Aang. Me too.” Aang gulped, and looked at Zuko. He had a light smile on his face. He looked calm. Aang now wanted to ask the questions he had to. The truth was, that he could sleep, but Katara sent him up here to ask Zuko something. Aang knew he was going to walk into a minefield. Here I go.

„So… um… what do you think of our group?”

„What do I think? You have a strong bond. It’s good.”

”Yeah… and… what do you think of Katara?” Zuko smirked.

„She’s strong and.. well I can admit that she’s beautiful. A good bender… and very adult. But… she’s way to stubborn for a woman. Why do you ask?” Aang blushed.

„Nothin’. And… Toph?” the smile faded off of Zuko’s face. He turned to Aang.

„Why do you ask?” his voice was stern. Katara was right, Aang realised. Something was going on.

„She is really happy now, you know. She can see. You cured her eyes.” Zuko blushed deeply.

„Well, it wasn’t me… I just had a friend who knew a man who could get this medicine, so…” Aang put his hand on his shoulder and smiled.

„Zuko, if you want to be a part of this group, you have to learn something. Honesty is very important among us. Believe me, I learned it the hard way… once I hid a letter from Katara and Sokka’s dad from them. I almost lost them… So, what I’m trying to say is that you have to be honest to us.”

„So, should I just run down and admit my feelings to her?” Zuko snapped. Aang laughed.

„So you do have feelings for her!”

„I didn’t say that!”

„So you say you don’t have feelings for her?”

„No!” he put his hands on his head. „Stop it, you’re confusing me.” He sighed deeply, and put down his hands. He looked at Aang’s honest, smiling face, and sighed again.

„Okay, I admit I feel ’something’… but I don’t know what it is yet. It’s strange for me, okay? Just… let me understand it further. But, I swear, if I learn what I feel I’ll tell.” Aang streched his hand in Zuko’s direction, and he grabbed it and shook it.

„Deal.” Aang said and left.

Zuko turned back to the stars. Man, this is going to be complicating.

*

At midnight, when the Moon was at it’s peek, a group ran from house to house, trying not to bee seen by the night guard. When they reached the gate, a small figure stepped out, and touched the material of the metal, and it suddenly opened, just a bit for them to pass. The gate then closed, and the group disappeared into the night.

Aang blew the bison-whistle and minutes later Appa arrived and greeted Zuko with a great lick. Aang raised a brow, then Zuko explained that it was he who freed Appa in Ba Sing Se. This was the last nudge. The group now trusted Zuko a hundred percent. Momo finally found Sokka, and sat on his head, his normal place.

They all sat in the great saddle on Appa’s back, then Aang went to the strings.

„Norht?” he asked, and Zuko nodded.

„Appa, yip-yip!” and with that the bison flew into the sky. Aang turned him due north. They all looked calm, but inside they were very nervous. Breaking into a Fire Nation prison…

Toph saw Zuko’s face, just barely in the light of the Moon. He looked so determined, so stern and serious. So… painful. Why can’t Sokka say something funny now? Speaking of the devil…

„Hey, it’s coming! It’s coming!” Sokka started shouting, and before someone could ask what he was talking about, he blurped. It was so loud that even the ground under them roared. Momo escaped into the air with displeased screeches. Katara hit Sokka on the head as hard as she could.

”Ouch! What you do that for?”

„You’re disgusting! Man!”

„Why? It had to come out!” Sokka protested. Toph smiled, and then she heard a small chuckle coming from Zuko’s direction. She herself started to laugh. First slowly, than more rapidly, and soon she was roaring with laughter, joined by Zuko and Aang. Katara just crossed her arms, but Sokka stood, and bowed.

„Thank you, my dearest fans!” he exclaimed, but then Katara kicked his legs, and he fell back on his backside. Zuko laughed harder. Toph’s stomach was now hurting, and she lost her balance, and she fell over, right into Zuko. Her head landed in his lap. They were still shaking with laughing, tears streaming down their cheeks. Inside, Toph was jumping with joy. She was in his lap! And he didn’t mind!

Zuko felt her head hitting his lap, but he did nothing. He had to be honest with himself. It was comfortable…

*

Appa landed on rocky ground. The group jumped off the bison. Zuko stroke Appa’s head, than started to walk to a certain direction. The others followed him. They reached a high cliff, and behind it, they saw a large tower-like building which really looked like Ba Sing Se, but more dark and broody. Zuko turned to them.

„Okay, let’s stick to the plan. Sokka, Katara, go back to Appa. You’ll be the rescue team if we need backup. Toph, Aang… you follow me.” The others nodded, and they got into position. Toph had a wide grin on her face.

„Let’s do it.”

*

Iroh was sitting in the middle of his cell, legs crossed. The pillow he used to make the guards think he’s fat was bothering his skin. Something was wrong, and he knew it. The midnight guard always came into his cell to boast about himself or to throw an insult at him. He liked it very much, and he did it as often as he could. And now he was late. Interesting.

Suddenly he heard a loud ’bang!’ and heard a muffled voice. It was the midnight guard. He was thrown to the door to his cell. Iroh stood. What was going on?

The door opened, and Iroh saw a figure, wrapped in shadows. He walked slowly to Iroh’s cell door and unlocked it, kicking it open. Iroh then finally saw the face of the intruder. Zuko.

„Uncle?” he asked. Iroh didn’t know what his nephew was up to. First he betray him, then he tries to break him out? „Uncle, you okay?” he walked over to Iroh, and hugged him. The pillow fell out. Iroh just stood dumbfounded, he didn’t even hugged him back. When Zuko stepped back, Iroh saw sadness in his eyes.

„You think I betrayed you, Uncle?” Iroh frowned.

„What could I think Zuko? You killed the Avatar.” Zuko nodded.

„That I did. But…” he looked up, smiling „I wouldn’t say I betrayed you. Aang, can you come in please?”

Iroh just stared at the boy who was walking in the cell. He was wearing Fire Nation regalia, and he had a scarf on his forhead, but his face… his name…

„Avatar?” Iroh asked, amazed. „You’re… alive?” he then looked at Zuko. „You? You planned it?” Zuko nodded, but then they heard a loud ’bang!’ again, and Toph looked in the cell.

”Yeah, monumental moment, but I think it’s time to leave! The guards must have found the other bodies! C’mon!” she shouted.

„Uncle, I hope you won’t miss this cell. Let’s go!” Iroh nodded, and they ran out of the room. When Iroh recognised Toph, he smiled at her.

„Miss Bei Fong! We meet again.”

„Yeah, well, let’s wait with the celebrations until we get out of here.” She said, and moved her feet to the right. A yelp was heard from the other side of the wall. Ouch.

They ran to the end of the corridor, then turned left, and Iroh saw a large hole in the wall. It was bended.

„This leads to the first guard room, not far from the exit. Toph and Aang made it.” Zuko explained to Iroh.

They went into the hole, than Toph turned, and stomped on the ground. A wall of rock erupted, and closed down the entrance for good. The four of them reached the other exit soon enough, and jumped out, Toph again cloding the door. Zuko kicked the door open, but as he did, he froze.

„What’s up Zuko?” Aang peeked under his arm, and he froze too. Iroh saw it too. Soon, Toph learned as well, what was going on.

In the middle of the courtyard stood a figure. A girl. Long brown hair, golden eyes.

Azula.

*

Azula awoke with a yell.

„Zuko!” but she saw noone with her. Instantly, her shoulder flared up, and she fell back to the bed in pain. She remembered his voice. He said something… What did he say?

„I have to leave now. I promise I’ll be back for you. You are my Sister, Azula. These past days, you showed me more of you’re love towards me, than in the past twelve hears. I love you, Sis.”

„I…have to…get up… Zuko…” she forced herself to stand. She was totally naked, except the bandages on her shoulder. She walked slowly to her wardrobe and searched for some clothes.

*

„Azula, what are you doing here?” It was Mai. She opened her door, and looked at Azula with terror in her eyes. Ty Lee soon arriwed behind her, and gaped in surprise and fear.

„Azula! What… you look terrible! What are you doing? You are in no condition to…”

„Where is Zuko?” she asked. Ty Lee tried again to protest, but Mai placed her hand on hers and shook her head. It was no use.

„We don’t know. He left the city a good while ago. We don’t know where he went.” She answered her. Azula stared into nothingness for a few seconds, then looked up.

„Uncle…” she whispered, than turned away form the girls, and before they could say something, she ran and disappeared into the night.

*

For countless hours (days?) she traveled. She was able to catch a ship to the other, main island. After that, she turned west, and started her perilous journey towards the prison hill, where Iroh was captive. Her body was limp, with the food and water she stole on the ship in her system, she could still move, but it looked like it was sheer will that made her legs move. The sheer need to see Zuko again. Her big Brother.

*

And now, Azula was standing in the cold night, in the middle of the Prison courtyard, staring into those gold eyes. Her anger flared, filled the lost energy of her body.

„Why, Zuko? Why?” she sneered. Her Brother’s face showed shock. No, shock was an understaitment.

„Azula… you have to understand… I…” he started, but Azula cut in.

„Why did you leave me? Why, when I needed you the most?” Zuko’s knees weakend, he nearly fell over. He thought Azula was angry because he joined the Avatar, and freed his Uncle. But he was wrong. Instead, she was angry, because he left her. Alone. Just like he was alone for years. He hung his head.

„I’m sorry, Sister.”

„Don’t call me that!” she screamed, then threw a blue fireball at him. The attack was so weak, it didn’t even damage his clothes. Azula saw the utter regret in his eyes, sadness, love for her… Yes, he loved her Sister. And she couldn’t stand for it. Because she felt good. She loved Zuko too, he was her Brother, the one who concerned himself with her, who smiled at her, who hugged her. He stood beside her, when she was injured. Her Father, who she respected the most, didn’t even visited her, but he… the boy she hunted for so long… who she wanted to kill several times…

Zuko started to walk towards her. When Azula saw this, she shot another fireball, but this was weaker than the one before. Zuko was getting closer and closer.

„Get away from me… get away… from… me…” she whispered, tears filling her eyes. She was never so desperate to escape. To escape from her Brohter. Her legs finally gave up, and she fell, just to be caught by strong arms.

Zuko hugged her thightly to his chest. She buried her head into his vest, crying harder than ever before.

„Get away from me…” she whispered again, but she hugged back. Zuko stroke her hair.

„I will not let you escape from the life you know you would like. Don’t run from those who love you to those who don’t.” She hugged him thighter.

„Brother…”

Iroh just stood there with Aang and Toph. All three of them were overwhelmed by the scene they just saw. Toph felt tears in her eyes. As did Iroh. The old man saw the pair, the Brother and Sister, two people born into the wrong family, under the wrong Father. Iroh clenched his fists.

„Ozai… you will pay for all the pain you have caused.” He whispered. Toph saw Azula’s pained expression, and thought that she never saw a person so lost in her whole life. The Princess who was raised to be ruthless, to kill, destroy and enslave those weaker than her. And now she was facing love, and she was desperate. She just didn’t know what to do with it. Toph herself was crying, as she saw the pain in the eyes of the boy she loved with all of her hearth. The feeling now was stronger than ever, and she knew… she has to tell him. Not now. But she will.

Aang saw Azula’s body going limp, and her mind failing, she fainted. Zuko caught her falling body, and shoved her into his arms. Aang nodded to Zuko, who sighed in relief. He knew tha Avatar understood. Not the time to talk. Aang blew the bison-whistle.

Minutes later Appa lowered his body on the courtyard. Katara jumped down from him, but Sokka stayed with the strings. Momo was flying around them. Katara greeted Iroh.

„It is good to see you Water Maiden Katara!” Iroh greeted her back, than slowly climbed on Appa’s back. Aang jumped up to Sokka. Katara saw Zuko with a girl in his hands. It was Azula.

Zuko just smiled sadly at her. He was accompanied by Toph, who after climbing on Appa, helped Zuko and Katara to bring Azula’s body up and when they finished, Toph laid her down on their bags. Zuko and Katara were the last to sit down with the group.

„Appa, yip-yip!” Sokka said, then directed the flying bison to go southwest to the mystical Western Air Temple.

Finished! Phew, this was hard. I hope I didn’t mess up badly with the Zuko+Toph scenes and with Azula. This is the last chapter I’m putting up for a while, cuz my exams are drawing near, but I try to write as much as I can during it! Reviews please, I want to know what mistakes I made. Thank you, hope you enjoyed it!
- 5
- 6
- 7
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

Can Fire melt? Ask the Earth