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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

Chapter Nine – Beyond the Ice and the Fire

Disclaimer – Avatar: the Last Airbender does not in any way belong to me. However, the plot and storyline as well as any and all original characters belong to me.
The name of Kuzon’s nurse – Mara, means bitter in Hebrew. Hana is Japanese for flower. Yan Jue is Chinese for ‘careful’ and I felt this an appropriate name for the royal physician, though his last name, Sylid, is made up and means nothing on its own.
As always, please enjoy and review – every bit of encouragement and advice always helps, and is literally the lifeblood that nourishes my writing soul. Feel free to ask questions or point out anything you liked/did not like.

o0o0o0o
Katara

The next morning was a sunny day, and the light filled the bedchamber, bringing out all the reds in the bed and the wall hangings. I felt the Fire Lord’s hand caress my stomach through the gap in my now-loosened nightgown, and I moaned softly, coming out of my reverie.
He placed kisses along my face, neck, and breasts as his fingers ran gently along my stomach. It was at times like this that I was most confused by my responses to him. Part of me loved the attention, and wanted him to take me. Another part of me wanted him to stop, because slowly but surely he was penetrating my defenses. And there was another part of me that feared that this was all part of a chase. He would tease me and tease me closer and then… when he finally had me he would go on to someone else? Was that why he was prolonging this?
As if he read my mind, he murmured soft words to me.
“Mine, mine always… I am never going to let you go…”
“Never…?” I could not help but whisper back, remembering the agreement we had made about the annullment. He slowly lifted his face to mine and stared at me for several moments.
“Never.” he replied firmly before placing a kiss on my lips. I could not help but respond, and my arms went up to his bare sides. My palms slowly caressed the flesh I found and he let out a short moan, staring at me with half-lidded eyes before he kissed me again. He pulled me even closer and my hands caressed his back as he pressed against me, as if he wanted to share his heat with me.
“My lord…” I whispered as his lips fell on my throat. He growled as he placed firm kisses along my collarbone. I pressed my palms against his back, feeling the powerful muscles that coiled beneath the pale skin.
He went on for a while, traveling to my breasts and stomach as far as the opening of my nightgown would allow, but he did not go down further even though I would not have tried to stop him from hiking up my nightgown. He slowly sat up and looked down at me. My cheeks were flustered and I returned his gaze. Before I could stop myself, I asked him.
‘Where am I to live? Am I to live in here?” I asked hesitantly. This suite was undeniably his, and I had the suspicion that he would not want anything about it changed.
“Yes and no.” he replied.
“Pardon?”
“You will have your own apartment – the Phoenix Suite that every Fire Lady uses – to decorate as you please, but every night, you will come to my bed and at any other time that I summon you.” he replied.
“I understand. And I am to have my own staff, right?”
“Yes. You will have your own apartment, servants, and allowance. Everything will be worked out within the next week.” he stated. I nodded, seeing there was nothing else to be said. But he had one addition.
“You will also be assigned guards.” he said firmly. I looked up at him in surprise and started to protest. I had no desire to be placed under constant supervision. Did he think I would try to run away or that I might be unfaithful to him?
“Any time you are out and about, you will always have at least one guard to accompany you.”
“But, I…” I replied impulsively, feeling offended by what I felt was an accusation of my behavior. Before I knew it, my wrists were pinned to the bed.
“You will do as I command!” he growled. I whimpered softly, unable to speak. I saw a glint in his eyes and stared up into them. There was undeniable pain in his eyes, and I wondered where that had come from.
“You will always be under guard, especially if you are roaming about! This is for your safety! Do I make myself clear!” he demanded fiercely, his voice an unmistakable command. Even as I heard an edge of pain in his voice, I was surprised to hear fear. Or was that just my imagination?
“Ye… yes, my lord. I... I just felt that you were accusing me of planning to run away or be unfaithful...” I whispered. He stared at me for several moments before he relaxed and shook his head, though he kept me pinned. His expression softened further before he placed a kiss on my forehead, nuzzling me.
“No. I do not think so little of you. All I want is your safety.” he said before climbing out of bed. I followed suit.
Since the Fire Lord had his own duties to perform and business to catch up with and attend to, I did not see him after breakfast for the rest of the day. I was placed under the care of the head of the household servants, Ging Lei. Officially, she was called Ging Lei, but colloquially, she was simply named Lei by those closest to her or her peers. Over time, as our relationship developed and we warmed to each other, I would call her Lei too.
The Fire Lord had her sent in before he left. She immediately fell to her knees and bowed as Kuzon and the servants had done for my husband. I stood there and she stayed on the floor for several moments, the silence becoming more and more uncomfortable. I waited for her to rise and she did not. It took me several moments to remember my new position.
“You may rise.” I announced, trying to mask my nervousness and embarrassment.
She was a tall, thin woman in her fifties, who always wore her salt and pepper hair in a bun at the base of her skull. When I first encountered her, I found her formidable. She was half a head taller than me, and she stood as if her spine had a steel rod in it.
Her first loyalty was to her lord, but eventually we grew closer and we trusted each other. She was always honest with me, and she was a smart and efficient woman – a more than ideal character for taking a position that had usually been reserved for men. She had been in the Palace since she was only a little younger than I, and had worked her way up.
Since she had known of my arrival beforehand due to the message Zuko sent off the ship via messenger hawk, she had already started preparations. I was amazed that she could do so much, for she had a wide variety of duties to perform, but she did them well. In no time she had informed me that she had placed out a call for servants for my personal staff, that she had called for the royal tailor to outfit me with my new wardrobe, and the Phoenix Suite had been cleaned out, and the servants would move my luggage there. Ging Lei certainly wasted no time in performing her duties.
My apartment was near the Fire Lord’s, so it would be easy to go to him every night as he had asked of me. The doors to Zuko's apartment had a dragon design, but mine had a phoenix, not surprisingly.
“This apartment, as well as the Fire Lord’s, is in its own private wing. No one will pass by unless you call for them. No one comes up here who is not supposed to.” she stated, and I nodded. She placed her hands on her hips and stared at me for several moments as if thinking of what to ask me.
“I suppose this apartment is to your liking?” she asked. I swallowed and nodded. My apartment had a front room, parlor, bedchamber, study, washroom, solarium, a couple of smaller rooms, and a separate but smaller apartment and washroom for my personal servants to sleep in. The total area was bigger than the first level of my father’s estate and I felt overwhelmed by all the space that I was to have for myself. A entire family – or two – could live comfortably in here. This was the largest apartment besides Zuko's own.
Ging Lei stood patiently as I slowly wandered through the mostly empty rooms, taking it all in. My things had been placed in the parlor, waiting to be unpacked. The thick red drapes had been opened all the way to allow sunlight to pour in, showing me just how well the rooms had been cleaned and prepared for my arrival – had the cleaners been up all night? The windows in several of the rooms were large, and I had a magnificent view of the ocean, which I was just high enough above the volcano wall to see.
“And here, you can tug this rope,” she explained as she took ahold of a thin gold coil that ran up the wall, “It rings a bell in the servant’s apartment, letting them know that you need something. If you are ready, my lady, I will call in a few servants to help you unpack.”
That afternoon, when most of my things were put away into the armoires and ornate chests in my dressing room, the servants were dismissed and Ging Lei approached me.
“Did the Fire Lord give you a key?” she asked. I frowned thoughtfully before I remembered Zuko pressing a golden key into my palm this morning. It had a phoenix on the top of it, and a red ribbon tied through the ring on the phoenix's back. I pulled it out of my robe, and she nodded.
“Very good.” She led me to a door that had was partially hidden behind a tapestry in my dressing room. “The greatest treasures of the Fire Lady are contained here. If you would open the door...”
I approached the door and unlocked it, pulling it open. There was enough light from the dressing room to show me a chamber with what appeared to be drawers lining the walls. I gently touched one, seeing no handle, but there was enough of a gap between each that I could slide my fingers under the bottom to pull it out. Each drawer had a number on it, barely visible, at the bottom left corner.
“In here is your jewelry as well as formal and traditional robes.” she explained as she remained at the door. I touched the drawer nearest me and tugged at it, there was enough of a edge on it that I could get a grip. As it slid out, I realized it wasn't just a drawer, but a box. From the feel and look of it, it was constructed of highly polished mahogany, with gold edges. I opened the lid to see one of the finest robes I had ever seen, adorned with rubies and gold thread, neatly folded. The faint odor of mothballs met my nose.
“You will need the Phoenix Robes for your coronation, as well as the jewelry that goes with it. These drawers are labeled.” She pointed to two drawers, one thicker than the other. Both had the characters for 'coronation' embossed on the face of the drawer in gold. I noticed that several others were labeled. 'Mourning' was one, 'blessing' was another.
“The robe will need to be aired out.” she said, holding out her hands, still not entering the space.
“Are servants not allowed to come in here?” I asked, wondering about the mothballs.
“Only with your explicit permission. For a servant to enter the Dragon or Phoenix Treasure Rooms otherwise is an offense that is punishable by whipping if not death.”
… Yeah. I had a lot to learn about being Fire Lady.
The drawers were removable, and I slid the ones Ging Lei indicated out. We set the boxes on the table in the parlor. I opened the one with the robes first, giving out a soft gasp at the beauty of the garment. Ging Lei gently unfolded it from the box to inspect it. It was a combination of red and black satin with gold threading and diamonds and rubies here and there to accentuate the phoenix design.
“This can stay in the box a little while more, but a few days before your coronation I will air this out. You will need to try this on to make sure it fits, the tailor can adjust it accordingly.
“I shudder at the thought of altering this gorgeous robe.” I said reverently. A flash of a smile passed over Ging Lei's face.
“I do not believe that actual altering would be necessary.” She held up the robe, and I slid my sleeves into it. It was a tad big, but still fit nicely, and I looked at myself in the mirror, dressed in more finery than I could have ever imagined to exist. What would I look like once I was properly dressed, with the appropriate accessories and jewelry to go with this? What would Zuko think when he saw me in this?

o0o0o0o

The next few days were a blur. I met new people, people that it was important to meet and know. There were the heads of various departments who worked under Ging Lei – the head of the kitchen, the grounds, the laundry, the animals, and so on, and a few more of the Fire Lord’s advisers, including a man who felt oddly familiar to me, Piandao, who I heard was famed for his mastery of the sword. I barely saw my husband before late afternoon.
I submitted myself to the royal tailor for measurements. Most of my formal clothing had been handed down from former Fire Ladies, and for my coronation, I would wear the Phoenix robes that Fire Lady Aila had worn when she married Fire Lord Azulon, the very same one that I had tried on before. However, garments for everyday wear and more casual occasions needed to be made, as well as pajamas, underwear, and socks. I would even have my very own suit of armor!.
When I had time for myself, I roamed the Palace, familiarizing myself with my new home, and I was delighted to find the library, remembering the Fire Lord’s promise to me.
After a few days, things slowed down. My apartment was furnished, much of my new wardrobe was finished or in the works, and I was more comfortable here. The wall hangings I had brought from home graced the walls, giving me some comfort. I was loaned a couple of servants by Ging Lei until I had my own permanent staff. But I knew more was to come. I had yet to have my coronation, and officially step into my role as the Fire Lord’s consort. That would be in a few days.
I was settled comfortably on a plush red sofa in the library, reading a book that I just found on the shelf. It was late morning and now that I was pretty much settled in, I took the opportunity to sit down and unwind a bit. I knew that I would be busy again this afternoon.
I heard a quick rapping on the shelves in front of me. “Who is it?” I called out.
“It is Kamas, my lady.” I saw him smiling at me through a space between the books. I gave out a small laugh and beckoned him forward. Kamas was in one of his fine Courtly robes. Behind him were two women, one who looked around my age, and the other one looked closer to Zuko's age.
“Good morning, my lady.” Kamas said as he bowed, and the women bowed to me as well. I could see by their garb that they were not servants. I set my book down and looked at him expectantly.
“My lady, it is my honor to introduce you to my wife, Peony.” The older woman bowed as he said her name. I remember Kamas talking about his wife while we had still been on the ship, he said that she would help me by introducing me to other noble women, acclimating me to Courtly life, and so on. Peony seemed like a nice woman, and she smiled at me. Her robe had pink and golden peonies embroidered into the deep red silk, and her black hair was pulled back in an elegant bun. Kamas turned to the other woman.
“This is my cousin, Hana.”
She had long, dark brown hair pulled back in a braid, and her skin, while pale, had the slightest hint of a tan. Her eyes were a light brown and she stood there in a simple but well-tailored red robe of silk, her hands folded in front neatly. I looked to Kamas in curiosity. We had already discussed his wife being a mentor to me, but he had not mentioned Hana.
“I brought her here for you to look at and decide whether she would be suited to be your personal assistant.” Kamas said, motioning Hana closer.
“And why do you think that?” I calmly asked Kamas, keeping the interest out of my face. I sat there primly, waiting for him to reply.
“She is efficient, and loyal. She is aware of protocol and would be honored to serve you. She will not spread gossip around you and she will keep your secrets.” Kamas said almost as if he was reciting something he had memorized. I raised an eyebrow as he and his wife stared back at me expectantly.
“Hana, tell me why you would like to serve me and what you would do for me.” I asked the girl, “And do not recite anything!” I added quickly. I could have sworn that I saw Kamas holding back a smile.
Hana bowed again before she spoke. “It will be an honor to serve you my lady. I long for a comfortable home and a good position, but I do not wish to settle down just yet. I desire to be of value and to serve my nation. I will do anything you ask of me and keep any secret that you might share with me. I attended the Royal Academy, and am well-versed in literature, calligraphy, and a variety of social occupations. I will share with you all that I know, and more, if you wish me to gain information for you. If you decide to honor me by giving me this position, you will have my complete loyalty and servitude. I will never betray you or the Fire Lord.” she said, staying on the floor.
I did not speak right away and stroked my chin thoughtfully for a moment before I looked back at Kamas. He glanced back at me calmly, saying nothing. I thought about the fact that it was he who bought this girl here. I had come to trust and respect Kamas in the short period of time. I knew that he would not have brought her here if he did not think she was truly qualified for such an esteemed position. Kamas spoke.
“But I make a humble request, my lady. All I ask is that you understand that I am not trying to make connections, or pursue any self-interest. Her own parents are dead and there is no one else to take advantage of her closeness to you should you decide to accept her. I would not have brought her here if I did not feel that she was very qualified.”
“I know.” I said simply and he bowed his head again. Hana remained on the floor, waiting for my permission to rise.
“Rise.” I commanded and she did so.
“Look at me.” I requested, and she raised her head, looking up at me. I took in the expression on her face and saw honesty and a genuine eagerness.
I nodded slowly.
“You will be my assistant.” I stated.
“It is truly a pleasure and honor, my lady.” Hana bowed.
“When will you be ready?” I asked.
“If it pleases my lady, she can be moved here tomorrow.” Kamas offered.
“Very well then.” I nodded, “You many take your leave. But Kamas, come back to me. I need to speak with you.”
“As you wish, my lady.” he bowed again and the women did as well before they left.
I ordered lunch and settled down to eat as the meal was delivered to me. I was learning much about Fire Nation cuisine. They loved to spice their food, or use exotic sauces. Water Tribe cuisine was simpler, as spice growing was out of the question because of the snowfields. While we did trade with the Fire Nation, we did nothing drastic to our food. Earth Kingdom cuisine had some spices. It depended on the dish and An Mei, when preparing the household menu, liked to vary between naturally flavored foods and spiced foods.
But it seemed here that any dish that could be spiced was spiced. On my tray, everything was bursting with flavor except for the fluffy white rice, and of that I was thankful. I would have to remember to specify my tastes for my next meal. I had to wonder if people here became bored of spicy food and if it tasted bland after a while. Or was that why they did not spice the rice? The Fire Lord always had a bowl of plain rice with his dinner as we ate together.
I heard a knock on the shelf when I was almost done with my meal. Kamas announced himself. I welcomed him in and he bowed before me.
“You wanted to talk to me?” he asked.
“Yes. Why would you give me your relative? Is something wrong with her that a marriage cannot be arranged for her? She seems like an intelligent person and I would think you would want a better life for her.” I stated bluntly. He chuckled softly.
“You truly are intelligent my lady, to consider that possibility. No, nothing is wrong with her. However, my family, or what is left of it, does not have any truly noble blood. Any prestige my father and I gained is from our military exploits, not from any noble lineage.”
“So you have truly earned your prestige.” I stated calmly. He smiled warmly.
“Indeed, my lady. But the nobles see differently, however.” he replied and I nodded.
“Hana and I are the only ones left of our family. I wish only the best for her. I do not just want her to marry and spit out a large brood, not when she is intelligent and deserves more. She has received a formal education with the tutors I have provided for her. She also spent two years at the Academy to round out her education. Here she would have an opportunity to earn more prestige for herself as well as gift you with her knowledge, and I am most grateful that you would give her an opportunity, my lady, but this is also an opportunity for you. Unlike my wife, she is your age and would provide guidance on a more regular basis and help you learn the ropes of Court, so to speak. Between her and Peony, you would never be lacking in the knowledge you need. She would remain with you several years, and when it is time for her to leave, she would train someone else to be in her stead.” he explained frankly.
“I appreciate your candidness, and I hope that you will always speak to me as such in the future.” I replied. He smiled and bowed his head again.
“You are more than intelligent and wise enough to appreciate such honesty. I would never try to sugarcoat things, give you lip-service, or lie to you, my lady – you are too good for that.” he said. I bit back an approving smile.
“There is more I want to ask.”
“Ask and I shall answer, my lady.”
“Would it be stepping out of place for me to request the Prince’s audience or have him brought to me?” I asked. He shook his head.
“Not at all, my lady. Provided that he is not having one of his lessons, you are free to go and see him or have him brought to you.”
“You work with him don’t you?” I asked.
“I am the one who arranges tutors for him and checks on his progress to make sure he is doing well. Sometimes I give him a lesson myself.”
“When does he usually have lessons?”
“From the morning to early afternoon. After that, he is left on his own to do as he pleases unless a special lesson has been arranged.” he explained.
“Is there anything else you want to ask of me?” he asked.
“Not at the moment, thank you.”
“Are you comfortable? Settled in? Anything you need?” he asked.
“Thank you, but no. All that can be done has been done or will be soon.” I sighed softly. He shot me a brief but sympathetic glance.
“You may go.” I said quickly. He bowed and left.
Later that afternoon, a couple of hours before dinner I decided to go look for the Prince. I was certain that by now his lessons would be complete. A guard bowed and told me when I asked where the Prince’s room was.
I came to the doors and was admitted into the Prince’s suite. The doors had a similar design as the ones leading to Zuko's own rooms, but on a smaller scale. There was a dour-looking middle-aged woman sitting in a chair, working on some sewing. I assumed it was a nurse. She glanced up at me and I could almost swear I saw hostility in her eyes before she carefully set aside her sewing and got onto the floor to bow to me.
“How may I be of service, my lady?” she asked.
“I am here to see Kuzon.” I stated. Before she could get up, I waved her back down.
“Just tell me where he is.” I commanded. She nodded stiffly, pointing through the doorway. I walked through quietly, and the young Prince was so absorbed in his activity that he did not see me.
I had never seen such a dollhouse like this. It appeared to be a replica of the Palace and grounds, shrunk down to miniature size. It was set on a low table, so that Kuzon could easily reach and play with it but not accidentally walk into it.
I watched him quietly for a few moments as he played. The small figurines he set about were also exquisitely crafted, even though none of them were bigger than my pinky. There were all kinds of people; nobles, servants, even soldiers with tiny little swords and spears. The set was obviously expensive and one of a kind, and the child handled it with care. He held the figures delicately and murmured softly to himself, most likely making up dialogue for the toys.
“Hello.” I whispered, making my voice as soft as I could so as not to startle him. He paused, his hands frozen around two figurines. Finally, he turned his head to look up at me and when he recognized me I saw a glimmer of happiness in his eyes.
He set down the toys carefully and fell to his knees, bowing to me.
“It gladdens my heart to be graced with your presence, my lady.” Kuzon said softly. I walked over to him and took his hands, helping him to his feet.
“You do not need to fall to your knees in front of me. Your kind greeting pleases me enough.” I said kindly as I gave him a small smile.
He was such a beautiful child and I imagined that my husband looked like this once. His golden eyes looked up at me with curiosity and anticipation and I could not help widening my smile. When I had first heard about Kuzon I had feared that he would be a spoiled child, since he was the Prince of the Fire Nation. But so far he seemed pretty grounded, like his sire was.
“May I ask why you have come to see me, my lady?” he asked, his hands still in mine. I smiled, for I had been thinking about how to best start my relationship with this child, also keeping in mind what Kamas had confided in me.
“May I sit down?” I asked. He blinked and nodded, tugging my hand and leading me over to a plush sofa. It seemed too big for a child like him, but it was comfortable enough for me.
“Thank you. Will you come and sit with me?” I asked. He climbed onto the sofa and sat near me, looking up at me curiously. I wondered if any of the old concubines had ever paid attention to him. Apparently not, from the way he was drinking in my attention.
“As you know, I am here to stay.” I said and he nodded.
“Why did my lord choose you to be his wife?” he asked. I held back a sigh.
“He finds me special.” was all I could say. He looked up at me for a few moments.
“But I came here to offer you my friendship.” I offered. He stared at me curiously for a few moments.
“Of course, it is up to you. I just thought, now that I am your stepmother, that we could have a relationship. If you choose to want to have one, that is.” I continued. There was no reason for us to not get along, An Mei and I got along wonderfully and Kuzon did not have the memory of his mother like I had, so there was no need for him to feel that I was replacing anyone else. I felt the urge to hug him but I held back, remembering the first time my own stepmother had tried to hug me. I had screamed and run off from her, hiding from her and my father. I had been so angry with them both at that time, and it was too sudden for me, for my father had married her only a short time after meeting her, and I had barely known her. I kept that in mind when I spoke with Kuzon – I had no desire to rush things or get off to a poor start.
“You really want to be my friend?” he asked hopefully. I smiled.
“Of course I do, Kuzon. I can tell that you are a special and wonderful child and I would be honored if you would want to be my friend.” I said softly. He smiled a little more.
“I am glad that my lord brought you here.” Kuzon said, and I had to hold back the feeling of sadness that rushed over me at the mention of being brought here.
“Really? Why?” I asked.
“Because… you have the prettiest smile I have ever seen and you are the nicest person I have ever met.” he said softly. I was unable to stop my heart from being tugged at these sweet words.
“You really are too kind.” I replied and he laughed softly as he shook his head insistently, clearly eager for my attention.
“I also came here to ask you a small favor. If you want to say no, it is fine.” I stated. He nodded curiously.
“This Palace is so big, and the grounds even more than that! I fear that I may become lost if I wander outside, and I wonder if a brave Prince will give me a tour and show me around.” I persuaded gently, hoping that Kuzon would accept me. My fears were quickly dashed as his eyes gleamed.
“I won’t let you become lost!” Kuzon promised, and I could not help but smile again.
“I shall forever be in your debt.” I replied with a playful smile and he smiled back, tugging at my hand again.
“Where are you going?” Kuzon’s nurse asked as we came out, glancing at me suspiciously.
“Making sure that the Lady does not become lost.” Kuzon replied, and the woman glanced at him before narrowing her eyes at me.
“We are going for a walk.” I stated firmly, raising my chin slightly. I did not appreciate how she looked at me at all, and I saw that she was about to object, “You stay here. I have no intention of harming the prince and I have my own guard to watch over us.”
Her thin lips twisted together but she said nothing, forcing herself to bow to me.
The Prince took my hand and led me down the twisting halls and stairs, my guard following us. Servants and guards alike paused to glance our way before bowing to us. It was a sunny day, and for that, I was happy. The air was warm but not humid, and as soon as the fresh air assailed my senses, I took in a deep breath.
“Where shall we go first?” I asked. He paused as he glanced up at me for several moments before staring off. I could make out a garden, a pond, some orchards, and a few smaller buildings from where I was standing. I knew it was only a fraction of what the entire Palace grounds held. I knew that I would not be able to see it all in one day, much less a couple of hours, which was all the time we had before supper.
“You can pick out something to show me today, and we can take more walks later on.” I promised. His eyes brightened with relief and understanding and he nodded before tugging my hand again. He seemed afraid to let go.
I strolled down a path with him to the garden that was nearest the Palace. There were quite a few of them around the Palace grounds. Most of them were for food, but a few had the most stunning and exotic flowers I had ever seen. It was to such a garden that Kuzon was leading me. A low wall surrounded it, and it was whitewashed, with red tiles along its top. Here and there was a cherry blossom tree, its soft pink petals slowly waving to and fro in the light breeze. We walked through the gate and I smiled as I saw a small pond. This place was perfect for contemplation or meditation, I thought to myself. Each of the gardens scattered around the grounds had a different feel to them, as I would find out later.
“This place is beautiful, thank you for bringing me here.” I said and he smiled at me shyly. The sweet scent of the various flowers wafted around me and I stepped to the pond, sitting near it. My guard stood about a meter away and I glanced at the pond more closely, seeing a few koi swim beneath its surface.
There were red lilies clustered here and there and I knelt near one such area, looking down at them. The petals were fire-red, with a golden center. It was near the end of summer, and many of the flowers were already dying, but a few clung to life.
“What are these called?” I asked Kuzon.
“Fire-lilies, my lady.” he replied and I nodded, leaning down to sniff one of the more vital specimen. It had a sweet smell that all lilies had, but this one was more sharp and spicy, which was most fitting for it.
“This garden is nice, but there’s a few more and the one I like best has a bigger pond and even more fire-lilies.” Kuzon offered and I glanced over at him. He looked up at me hopefully and I nodded.
“You can show me that garden on our next walk.” I promised before I rose to my feet.
“Kuzon, what is that building over there?” I asked, pointing to one in the distance.
“That is the stables, where the Komodo rhinos and other creatures are kept and cared for.” he explained. As I took another look I saw a walled area to the side of it, and figured it was a grazing area. Zuko had promised me that I could take riding lessons, and even learn how to ride a mongoose-lizard. I asked Kuzon a few more questions, getting a better idea of the grounds, or at least a part of it. After a bit I decided to turn the conversation into another direction.
“What do you like to do?” I asked. He stared up at me blankly for a few moments.
“I mean, what do you enjoy doing? Such as reading, or playing an instrument or…” I prompted, giving him an encouraging smile.
“I… I like to paint.” Kuzon replied shyly.
“That sounds wonderful. My stepmother also likes to paint. I have some of her paintings in my room, perhaps one day you could come visit me and I could show them to you.” I offered, and his eyes gleamed with joy.
I looked up at the late afternoon sun and back at the Prince.
“I hate to cut our walk short but I think it best to return to the Palace.” I suggested. He looked up at me pleadingly, grabbing my hand and tugging it in the direction opposite of the Palace, and I could not help but smile a little.
“I am not leaving, Kuzon. You heard what the Lord said, I am here to stay. There is plenty of time for you to show me everything.” I promised.
When I took him back to the suite the nurse was there, waiting to pounce as if I had done something wrong. I held my chin high, refusing to be intimidated. I had learned from Kuzon that her name was Mara, and that while she took care of him, she was not fun to be around. I promised him that I would come back for him, and also that he could visit me when he wanted to. When I had told him that, his eyes had lightened up and I knew that seeing me had been the high point of his day.
I gave him a loving goodbye before I turned to leave.
Dinner that night was a quiet affair as it usually was. I did not know what to say to my husband, for he did not seem in the mood to talk. He could be so cool and distant at times, and so warm and loving at others. Even though I was kept comfortable here, was treated well by my husband, and taken to well by my stepson, I still felt out of place here. I was not so foolish as to think that just because I would be the Fire Lady, that I would be accepted and loved by everyone. Kuzon’s dour old nurse was just one example – but I had yet to encounter the nobles. So far, the people I had met were either servants or members of the Fire Lord’s council.
I liked Kamas very much and trusted him. Jeong Jeong, while he was very cynical and I had never seen him smile, I saw that he was a fair man. I learned that he instructed the prince in Firebending. Sylid was friendly and when he had given me my examination, treated me kindly, and he taught medicine as well. I also liked Piandao, but could not shake the feeling of familiarity I felt around him or Jeong Jeong.
The Fire Lord took a bite of a dumpling. There was one curious thing I had noticed… Most of the time, when I ate with him, the meal was lacking in meat. We would have eggs, cream, or cheese here and there but animal flesh was rare.
“I hope that I… do not step out of line for asking this, but I norice that meat does not frequent the menu. May I ask why?”
He paused then set down his chopsticks.
“It is… something I picked up from Avatar Aang when I was instructing him in Firebending. The Air Nomads never ate meat, and I noticed about him the same thing you noticed about me. He told me about how he was raised, and the respect for living things that he was taught. The more time I spent with him, the more I understood. I have not given up meat completely, but I eat it only sparingly, and I encourage the rest of the Palace to do the same. Do you wish for some now?” he asked. I quickly shook my head. The cuisine that I shared with him was very good and I barely noticed the absence of meat. My father had used meat sparingly as well; usually we had it only once a day, maybe twice if it was a special occasion.
“I… I was merely curious, my lord. Thank you for telling me.”
“I trust that you… are comfortable here.” he stated. I blinked and nodded, remembering something I had wanted to say to him.
“I love the view that my apartment has and… I really appreciate that you assigned it to me.” I replied and I saw a glimmer of pleasure in his eyes. His lips tugged into a hint of a smile.
“I knew you would want to see the ocean.” he replied simply before taking another bite.
“Is there anything else you need? I trust that Ging Lei and Kamas are helping you get settled.”
“Oh. Yes, they are. I compliment you on the wise decisions you make regarding your household.” I told him and he glanced at me for a moment, seeming pleased.
“I hear that you have chosen your first attendant.” he said, and I knew without being told that he had approved of her. All my personal servants would have to go under his final approval, after going under Kamas and Ging Lei’s inspection.
After a few moments of silence I spoke again, wanting to continue the conversation. I had not seen him all day and I had felt lonely for his company even as I interacted with Kamas or Kuzon or otherwise. He seemed to be in a more receptive mood now so I spoke again.
“I found the library and you were right. It has given me much pleasure.” I stated. He nodded, warmth shining in his eyes even as his face remained calm. I shot him a smile, and to my surprise and relief, he smiled back.

o0o0o0o
Zuko

I felt complete around my Waterbender. When she smiled at me, my heart fluttered as if I was a teenage boy again. Even now, I still wondered if it was all a dream and I would wake up to find myself alone, the woman I loved dead and gone.
When we finished dinner, she got up and excused herself to return to her suite so she could change. I told her that it was not necessary and that she was to remain here with me. She sat down again quietly and I waited for the servants to clear the table before I rose from my seat and beckoned to her. I had not spent much time with her because I had been so busy catching up on my duties, and at night I would simply fall to bed, pulling her close before I fell asleep.
I was very pleased with the reports. The Fire Sages had reported to me, after reading the heavens and the signs closely for the last three days. The readings were most auspicious, according to the Sages. I would have gone ahead with having Katara as my queen regardless of whether the signs were lucky or not. But to know that they were satisfied with the signs meant their support would be on my side concerning the Waterbender. And a secret part of me was pleased that the heavens smiled down at me, even if I may have tried to dismiss it as silly superstition.
Sylid had examined her as well and stated her in good health. The arrangements were going well. My plan was to have the crowning ceremony, and then after that, a second wedding banquet. At the crowning, she would be formally presented to the Fire Nation. The banquet would be private. So far, all the planning was going smoothly.
I took her hand and led her into the bedchamber.
“Get ready for bed, I am going to go and meditate.” I told her.
“As you wish, my lord.” she said, bowing her head before she headed for my washroom. I entered my meditation chamber and sat down, igniting the candles with my bending.
I had never really gotten into meditation before I was banished. My uncle insisted that it was important yet I had seen no point in it. I did not see sense in simply sitting silently when I could have been doing something more productive. But during my search for the Avatar, it had given me much solace and I finally understood why Uncle valued it so highly.
Even now, all these years later I still practiced it. It helped me to collect my thoughts. I often found answers to difficult decisions regarding my country during these quiet moments. And I also used these moments of quiet to page through my memory. I often played different points in my life, as if I could learn new things from them. I sometimes did. With my age, I was able to see things I had not seen in my youth.
I took a deep breath as the candles grew in tandem to the intake of my air. My thoughts turned towards my wife. I could not help but smile just slightly as I recalled our one-on-one at the Northlands. She had been stunning, handling the water with ease, her eyes blazing as she rose against me. If we had not been such bitter opponents, I probably would have taken her right there. Despite her element, her fire matched my own.
When my uncle and I had joined the group, I had been drawn more to it. Most of the time, she was calm, motherly, nurturing. She was the peacekeeper of the group and always tried to make sure everyone was content.
However, she did not hesitate to glare at me if I displeased her, and her eyes burned so. If she were really angry, she would not hesitate to snap or scream at what offended her. I found myself provoking her just to see the fire in her eyes, fire that was directed at me.
I found the same fire in her eyes when I had been at her father’s house, coercing her into giving me her hand. I had found it reassuring when she raised her head in defiance, standing up to me. I would have been disappointed if she had taken it meekly. But since our first night on the ship, when I had shouted at her and caused her to cry, she had been quiet for the most part. I knew that I had made her afraid, and it had not been my intent. All I had wanted was for her not to tell me that she hated me, for Agni above, it truly did hurt. But I had lost my temper and gone overboard. That and all she had been through and seen since she had arrived here had seemed to cause her to retreat into herself.
I let out a slow breath, extinguishing the candles before I rose to my feet. I did not want that to go on. I wanted her to welcome me and not be afraid of me or of living here.
When I came out, I saw she was sitting on a window ledge, looking outside. She was bundled up in the robe that I had set out for her and I could not help but smile a little. Silently I crept over to her, placing my hand on her shoulder. She gasped softly and jerked around, looking up at me with surprise and fear.
“I am sorry that I am not in bed… I just…” she started to say. I placed my finger on her lips. She fell silent as she glanced up at me curiously and I scooped her up in my arms. Her weight in my embrace reassured me and I nuzzled her before I deposited her on the bed.
I removed all my clothes but for my pants and climbed on the bed, approaching her slowly. Her eyes were fixed on me with curiosity.
“Touch me.” I ordered. I wanted to encourage her to come to me. Every time I touched her, she accepted. Kisses, hugs, strokes and caresses, my hand sliding under her clothes, meaningful gazes sent her way. But all she did was accept. Nothing more. Even though I knew she enjoyed my attention – I could tell by her responses, she did not tell me exactly what she liked. She did not tell me where she wanted to be touched, or if she wanted more. She simply waited and accepted, and I wanted more than that. I also knew she was capable of more, and since she didn't remember our previous intimacy, this was all new to her. I needed to... remind her just what she was capable of.
After staring at me for several moments, she reached out to touch my face, looking at me questioningly. Her fingertips gently brushed against my cheek.
“Is that all you’re capable of?” I challenged. She drew her hand away.
“What do you want of me, my lord?” she asked. I moved closer.
“Do you find me unpleasant to look at or touch?” I demanded. She gasped and shook her head.
“No, truly I do not.”
“Then why don’t you touch me?” I asked, moving even closer.
“You are the Lord. I… did not wish to overstep my boundaries. I…”
“Showing me affection is not overstepping at all. Showing me that you desire me is what I want. I need you.” I stated calmly. I leaned my head down to place a light kiss on her lips before I sat back, waiting for her. She remained still for a moment before she moved forward.
I waited in eager anticipation, hoping that she would open herself up to me. To my delight, her hands gently cupped my face, and her face came closer and closer until our lips pressed together. I gave her a brief nod of approval to encourage her. Obviously this worked, because she pressed her lips against mine more firmly. I parted my lips slightly and she wasted no time in letting her tongue dart forward into my mouth. I reeled in triumph and pressed my tongue against hers, twining around it as I felt my pulse quicken.
Her hands slid from my face down my shoulders and to my chest, touching the muscles and pressing her palms down gently as her hands ran along in exploration. I propped myself up on my hands and leaned back just slightly, making myself more open to her.
After a few moments of kissing me passionately, she slowly broke the kiss and stared up at me for several moments, gauging my reaction. I responded by shooting her a smirk and a smoldering glance.
She moved forward to kiss me again and I closed my eyes, surrendering to her touch. I nodded when she broke the kiss and had to hold back a grin as I felt her lips travel along my face. She nibbled along my jaw, nuzzled my cheek, kissed my eyelids – the good and scarred one alike. Her hands reached up to free my hair of its binds and I felt the gentle tug as she ran her fingers through it.
Her lips and hands traveled along my chest and she nuzzled my stomach, kissing around the navel. Long before this, I had felt myself stirring and now I knew she noticed. She climbed into my lap carefully, wrapping her arms around my neck. I now saw the fire in her eyes, and was overcome with joy. Yes, Katara... that's it, go on...
She slowly lowered herself onto my groin, draping her legs around my hips loosely. I was unable to hold back a soft hiss as she moved her pelvis in a languorous circle, applying pressure to my lower regions. I strained against her, feeling tempted to take her right now. She sensed this, I could tell because her movements were deliberate and she eyed me carefully. Her breath came out slow and measured, but there was a blush on her cheeks, and I grinned at her.
Her hands traveled to my side and back in a slow massage, and I let out a soft moan, shivering a little. She paused in her pelvic movements and concentrated on her hands, massaging my back as she hugged me close, her chest against mine. Her lips traveled along my neck and face again, more hungrily this time. How I wanted to open the robe she wore and ravage her mercilessly.
This was what I needed and craved from her. I wrapped one arm around her loosely, murmuring out a soft ‘yes’ when her lips neared mine. We kissed passionately and she stopped her massage, wrapping her arms around me before she started teasing me with her pelvis, this time rocking front to back firmly. I could feel the warmth of her body even through the clothes we wore and my rigid flesh throbbed needfully. I groaned and bucked up against her, causing her to break the kiss with a soft gasp.
She climbed off my lap, gazing at me hungrily, and her hands traveled to the waistband of my pants. Oh Agni, I silently prayed to myself. If I took her tonight, what would be the difference? Tonight, tomorrow, the coronation night, what did it matter? She wanted me, I could see it. I could do whatever I pleased. I was the Fire Lord and Agni incarnate. I hadn't waited before with Katara, taking her in a intense night of passion, so why wait now?
“I need you.” I whispered.
Her hands slid from my pants and I gazed at her, waiting for an answer. She said nothing and a small smirk crept across her lips before she crawled to her side of the bed and slid under the blankets.
“I think you will be needing a cold shower, my lord.” she whispered before pulling the blanket over her head.
I sat there, unable to speak for a moment. Then my mouth spread into a wide grin, even though she was curled up away from me and could not see it.
Oh Katara, you little wench… I had to hold back a laugh. The glint in her eyes, her smirk, her defiance…
I considered pouncing on her and ravaging her. I wanted to hear her cry out my name as I made passionate love with her. I wanted to see more of the fierce gleam in her eyes. I do not know what made me decide to wait. Perhaps it was the fact that she had turned the tables on me and pleased me so well with her boldness. So I climbed off the bed. I needed cold water – lots of it.
I came back to bed and drew close to her, taking her in my arms and placing light kisses along the side of her neck as she slept.

o0o0o0o
Katara

As the days passed by, I realized that I was thinking of Enki less and less. I still thought about home and my parents often, but I found myself missing Enki less than I thought I would. I was enjoying Zuko’s presence and taking comfort in his embraces. No matter what, I was unable to shake off the feeling of familiarity and comfort I had around him or the sense that he knew something about me that I did not know about myself.
Since my arrival in Sozun, almost two weeks passed by so quickly that before I knew it, the day of my coronation had arrived.
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Kiss of Fire