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Attendant Rei was having a very bad day. First, he had overslept at his desk amidst the huge pile of papers that were supposed to be sorted out by him as important or not. The important ones would be handed over to the Fire Lord for his approval while the not so important ones would be sent to the respective ministries to be taken care of. Attendant Rei, woke up in the same position that he had slept - his cheek on the crinkled paper, the charcoal pen in hand, drooling and daydreaming of his wife welcoming him home with a huge platter of his favorite meat dumplings. He felt a hand on his back, shaking him awake and he sprang up on his feet, alert and afraid of who had caught him in his moment of ‘weakness’. The instincts that he had developed during the war weren't easy to shrug off. They stuck for a lifetime. He was grateful that after the war, the Fire Lord provided the weary soldiers with a way to provide for their families while enjoying the company of their families. He was tired of all the fighting and the bloodshed. This isn't who he was and if the war had gone on further, he would have perhaps mutinied against the self- declared Phoenix King. He was a peaceful devout servant of Agni, first and foremost. It was his assistant who was irritated and glared at him. "Have you forgotten that there is a meeting at 8 sharp?” He gasped and snatched the papers, tried to curb the unruly stray hairs so as to be presentable and rushed off after thanking his assistant for saving his sorry ass. Unfortunately, as I mentioned before, he was having a very bad day, and so his stomach grumbled loudly. A few servants who were cleaning the hallways stared at him in surprise and a few maids laughed at him, behind their hands. He was red with embarrassment but time was running out and food shall come later. He increased his pace and wasn't looking where he was going. Attendant Rei single mindedly rushed towards the Council Room that had been remodeled after the war and was now a spacious meeting hall, with glass ceilings and windows that let the sunlight in. When the Fire Sages had declared that the age of darkness was over and the Age of Light was ushered in with the Coronation of Fire Lord Zuko, Attendant Rei thinks that they must have meant it literally. As he reached the door, he bumped into a solid block of muscle and felt himself meeting gravity, the documents spilling from his hands, everywhere. He couldn't help but whimper as he remembered how painstakingly he had spent hours over those agreements and proposals, carefully reading through every line, no matter how long it was. He gets up angrily, determined to give the other person a piece of his mind at their lack of courtesy and improper etiquettes. His assistant always told him that he was as terrifying as a platypus bear when angry and today he was going to show this muscle head a taste of his famed temper. Looking up as the other person was tall, he cursed his short genes internally, and grimaced. It was the Water Tribe friend of the Avatar, who seemed as if he was on a mission. All the words that he planned to yell at the man, died in his mouth. “Good After- Sorry- Morning Sir” he grimaces at his squeaky tone and clears his throat, remembering that he is the personal attendant of the Fire Lord, a great honor bestowed upon his family by the Fire Nation Royalty that shall be remembered for generations to come. He greets the man again in a stronger voice, with a sheepish smile and asks about his health and family only to be interrupted by the impatient man. “Where is that Jerkbender?” Attendant Rei tries to control his increasing temper. For the honor of the fire nation. He speaks in a placating manner. “Surely, Lord Sokka, would find it in his heart to wait for the Fire Lord in the antechamber, while His Majesty presides over the meeting?” However, Lord Sokka, a true Southern Warrior, who was now training to be the next chief of the Southern Water Tribe, seemed to grow even angrier with his words. He moves Rei aside as if he was just a fly being swatted and barged into the meeting room, the guards and Rei trying their level best to stop him. “Where is She?!” Yelled Sokka, angry at being repeatedly stopped. “No, I need to see him. That asshole has hidden her away and thinks he can control every bit of her life?!” Rei steps in front of him and tries to push him back, turning back and apologizing to the ministers and the Fire Lord who stood up, shocked at being interrupted. “Sokka! Stop it! You can't simply barge in and demand where she is!” He could hear Lady Suki, furiously walking in the long hallways, her voice echoing powerfully. Attendant Rei thought she was his savior at that very moment and vowed to build a shrine in her honor. He looks at her with stars in his eyes before bowing deeply. She reaches them, bows in apology to everyone in the Council Room and holds onto his forearm, dragging him with her. Rei breathes out the breath that he didn't know he was holding. He hears someone speak and sees someone rush out before him. It takes a while for his mind to register that it was the Fire Lord who walked out of the meeting, walking quickly to catch up to the Water Tribe Warrior and the Kyoshi Warrior. The Prime Minister, who is now presiding over the meeting, pinches the bridge of his nose, and ends it, postponing to a later date. He also realizes that Fire Lord Zuko dismissed him for the day. Attendant Rei sighs. What a whirlwind of a day. His stomach growls loudly letting him know of his hunger. He takes out his pocket watch and sees that he has time to do whatever he wants.. Maybe a trip to visit his wife and kids is well in order. He hopes that she has made those delicious dumplings that he always dreams about. ____________________ Fire Lord Zuko was the Fire Lord over a peaceful Fire Nation. He loved the soil on which he was born on, his land that the Fire Nation citizens believed to be gifted by the Dragons and Agni who overlooked the vast archipelago and protected them from all evil. The land that prospered through thick and thin and was now seeing better days. Zuko believed that the Fire Nation was now at the peak of its glory, not when it was ruled by his Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather who were hellbent on crushing the fragile peace on which all the nations co-existed to further their mindless ambition. It was a good thing that Zuko had General Iroh to guide him or else, perhaps he too would have turned into his father. He was grateful to the spirits for guiding him towards his true destiny where he joined the Avatar and for once, joined the side of the good and helped end the war. With the help of Aang, Katar, Sokka, Toph and Suki, he was able to find his place in the world and fully accept himself. Soon after the war, came new challenges and they all got busy trying to fit in wherever they were needed. Zuko got busy learning to take the reigns of the Fire Nations that were still reeling from the effects of war. Aang got busy in rebuilding the Air Nomads culture. Sokka got busy with the rebuilding of the Southern Water Tribe, Suki went back to Kyoshi Island and somehow continued her long-distance relationship with Sokka (they were the first to get married in the gang) and Katara… Katara had gone off with Aang. Zuko last heard from her about how they were going to get married… And he looks at Sokka’s face who sat before him at the low table, glaring at him as if he was the most disgusting creature to ever exist. Suki sat beside him, gently rubbing his forearm as if to calm him down but Zuko could see that it wasnt working, giving him a stony look, once in a while, and why was Sokka directing his anger at him? he wondered. He remembers that the last time he had met Katara they had both parted on good terms and that nothing was amiss in her expressions and body language as far as he could remember so what could the reason be for Sokka to barge in like a rabid polar bear dog into his Council Room. The day had just started and there was much to do, he was already so worn out that he didn't think he would have the energy to take on the Southern Warrior’s anger. He let out a sigh and dismissed the attendant who brought the tea, snacks and assortment of fruits, so that none would eavesdrop on the conversation that would take place. He knew that whatever was the reason for Sokka's impromptu visit, it must be something important. He sits before them and pours tea in the cup set out before him. “Tea? It’s jasmine. It is said to calm the nerves” he says as he offers a cup to Suki first and then to Sokka. “Thank you Zuko” says Suki, giving a tight smile, addressing him informally, as there was no one who would find fault with the casual way she addressed him. Sokka takes a sip, breathes in and instead of beating around the bush, keeps the cup down and asks him directly “Where is Katara?” A sip. “I don't know. Isn't she with Aang?” Another sip. “If she was, do you think I would be asking that, jerkbender?” A pause. “Good point.” The silence felt suffocating all of a sudden. They were adults now. Not kids who lose their tempers at the drop of a hat. They could sort this out amicably. “So where is she?” asks Sokka, again, placing the cup on the table forcibly, agitated over the way Zuko didn't answer his question the way he wanted to. “I just now told you that I don't know where she is!” and there was an outburst. Sokka jumps to his feet “I don't know why you can't answer such a simple question plainly, Zuko? Katara was last seen in the Fire Nation. What do you mean that you don't know?!” He stands up and glares at them, donning the persona of the scary Fire Lord. If he wanted to play with power, he will show the warrior power. “When I said that I don't know, I mean that I really don't know. It has been -” “Boys, will you stop arguing?!” Suki jumps in between, irritated at the conversation going nowhere. With a hand on her forehead, she glares at both of them and narrows her eyes at Zuko. “Zuko, where is Katara? We moved to Republic City a week ago, and imagine my surprise when Aang tells us that Katara has gone over to the Fire Nation.”
“It has been months since I met my sister Zuko. MONTHS. Take me to her! Where is she?! I really wanted to tell her in person that I will serve as the Representative of the Southern Water Tribe for Republic City and she wasn't there. We were told that she was here Zuko-”
“-But Sokka, Katara hasn't really been to the Fire Nation in years.” Two shocked faces. A pit slowly formed in Zuko’s stomach. It suddenly dawned on him what was happening. The letters from Katara had stopped a few months after she left. He was hurt then and to nurse his broken heart he threw himself into working himself to the bone. He thought about the last conversation they had and how Katara left him after giving him a smile, bright enough to lighten the darkest days in the icy tundra. That was the last time he had last seen Katara. With wide eyes, he gulps, his voice quivering with realization. A pit of worry settling deep with Sokka’s and Suki’s guts. Suki covers her mouth with her hands, apprehensive over what she would hear while Sokka stares at him, wide eyed, worried over his sister’s wellbeing. “Sokka… Suki…Katara hasn't been to the Fire Nation in the last five years.”
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It was early in the morning and Fire Lord Zuko was up as soon as the first rays of the sun hit the horizon. He quickly got dressed up to train and walked to the training room, passing by the royal garden that housed the secluded turtleduck pond that his mother once loved. He slowed his stride as he noticed a silhouette sitting by the pond. Exhaling he decided to take a detour and walked near the figure, sitting beside her on the ground, cross-legged.
“Aren't the turtleducks cute Zuko?” asked Katara, breaking chunks of bread and feeding it to the quacking turtleduck.
Zuko gives a small laugh. A turtleduck came close to him and lightly nipped his fingers, irritated at his lack of food. “They are.”
She breaks a big portion of the bread and gives it to him. Zuko thanks her, his fingers lightly touching hers as she passes the bread to him. The touch was so light, yet he noticed that her skin was cool to touch. They both go back to throwing chunks of bread in the pond to feed the bird, a quiet comfortable silence between them.
Sunlight slowly peeked through the leaves of the trees around the pond. The blue water of the pond reflected their calmness. “I never knew that waterbenders could be infected by the firebending bug.”
Katara was stunned silent. She looked up at him, her blue eyes that reflected the sunlight that put sapphires to shame. Her cheeks were pink due to the heat and her lips were plump and seemed delectable. This was Zuko’s biased observation by the way, and he tried to focus on what she was saying.
“Did you just try to crack a joke?”
“Err, yes?” Zuko never knew why Uncle always praised his humour. Maybe Sokka was right, he does have a dead kind of humour.But it was worth it in his eyes, because Katara started laughing. She laughed with no care in the world, her eyes crinkling, her laughs something between snorts and full-blown laughter, that Katara believed to be ugly but to Zuko, she was the epitome of beauty in that moment, and he didn't want anyone to change that.
_________________________________ Republic City, formerly known as Cranefish Town (Sokka changed the name a year back) was on the way to being a bustling metropolis. With benders of all ages, and elements mingling, the city was a boiling cauldron of cultures and traditions.And when cultures mix, new ones are bound to form. And as Fire Lord Zuko, Council Representative Lord Sokka from the Southern Water Tribe and Lady Suki of the Kyoshi Warriors stood in the ferry, in disguises, that took them to the slowly built Air Temple Island, really dreamed of the day when Republic City shall be the role-model for all the nations around the world and prove that different cultures can co-exist together as equals, without anyone dominating the other. The city was slowly coming together, though things seemed tough, but due to the vision of Fire Lord Zuko, Avatar Aang, Council Representative Lord Sokka from the Southern Water Tribe and Lady Suki of the Kyoshi Warriors and Lady Katara the Last Waterbender of the Southern Water Tribe, this was slowly being turned into a reality. And Katara was missing. It has been a stressful journey for Zuko, so far. After reassuring Sokka countless times of Katara’s absence from the Fire Nation, it was a puzzle to exactly pinpoint where Katara could have gone to. She was clearly not in the South Tribe as attested by Sokka. She wasn't on Kyoshi Island either as Suki denied that any of her warriors could have seen her as it is a small island and everyone knows each other. So they decided to start with Aang, who must obviously know where she must have gone. The last time Zuko had seen her was five years ago when she had accompanied him to search for his mother. That had been a long journey that he always fondly remembered and yearned to go back to those days where he travelled around the Fire Nation archipelago in search of his mother with Katara, who supported him and never let him lose hope when he felt hopeless, wondering if his mother was dead or alive. And being hopeful paid off as he found his mother in a remote village called Hira’a, safe and sound. Though a part of him was hurt when he saw that she had forgotten him and moved on, Katara told him that maybe it was for the best. Miraculously he had later come to know that his mother had gone to the Mother of Faces and had asked for her memories to be erased with her face changed. He still didn't know how he felt about that but out of his love and loyalty for her, he asked for his mother and her new family to move to the Capital City, with his new sister admitted in the Royal Fire Academy for Girls. She called him brother, and he knew she was his sister yet for Zuko, his sister was Azula, who was wandering somewhere and the Fire Nation Royal Family was dysfunctional as heck. “Earth to Zuko, we are here.” said Sokka waving a hand in front of his face. Blinking a few minutes, to gather his thoughts together, Zuko sighs and follows the couple, as Sokka loudly grumbles about Aang lying to him about Katara’s whereabouts. They walk into the courtyard of the half-constructed Air Temple, as Aang wanted the architecture to be true to Air Nomadic traditions. It was a massive structure and Zuko was sure that it would be a piece of architectural marvel for architecture enthusiasts in the future. An air acolyte who was sweeping the grounds, greets them with a bow. “What brings you to Air Temple Island, Lord Sokka? Lady Suki? And I presume you are the Fire Lord? Fire Lord Zuko?” Zuko had worn a black patch on his face, that covered his eye, to hide his prominent scar so as to not be easily recognisable. He had left on a very short notice, leaving his Uncle- General Iroh in charge of the nation for the next few months. It was a split second decision that he had made when Sokka and Suki had informed him of Katara’s mysterious absence. Finding Katara was top priority and Aang held the key to her whereabouts. Sokka spoke to the Air acolyte. He seemed to be on good terms with the man. But the man kept giving him a sheepish smile and looked uneasy. Zuko assumed it was because of his sudden presence but when Sokka asked the Air acolyte to inform Aang of his presence, he visibly started sweating and left them with bad news. “Um- Avatar Aang left to inspect… um- the Eastern Air Templ-” “-What did you just say-” “-Sokka!” “-Leave me Suki, I’ll have that man’s hea-” “Are you sure he’s not here?” asked Zuko, wondering if Aang was simply avoiding meeting them. “N-no my Lord, h-he left a week back.”
_________________________________ “There goes our first lead dry.” said Suki, irritated as she aimlessly walked beside the angry Water Tribesman and the grumpy Fire Lord, along the banks of Yue Bay. She was dressed in a plain green dress, her hair tied in a bun. People didn't recognise her outside of her signature uniform, so she felt that she was free to wear whatever she wanted. Sokka on the other hand was dressed as he normally did, the only thing he added on top was a cloak with a fake mustache that clashed with his beard. Suki was sure no one really bought and as for Zuko, he was dressed like a common fire nation citizen but the eye patch miraculously rendered him unrecognizable by the people around them. They were trying to keep their presence hush so that none would know about the troubles within their small little group. Suki was aware of the presence of enemies who would use even such a trivial piece of information to turn the masses against them and put the hard fought peace at stake. “I wonder where Katara is? She must be sick and worried and-” Suki sighed. Sokka was grumbling to himself and she could see Zuko losing his control. Any second now and- “Sokka, she is your fully grown sister, not a child! She will be fine!” There it is. Sokka found his target. “Easy for you to say, you don't even worry about where Azula could be and who she is terrorizing!” He stood in front of Zuko leaning close into him, his nostrils flaring. Sokka was worried sick and not meeting Aang really grew the pit in his stomach deeper. He shouldn't have let Katara storm out on him on his last meeting with her. She had been so upset but then he thought all was well, when she told him she was returning to the Air Temple Island and he didn't think much of it. The letters stopped a few months later and he hadn't heard from his dearest sister for the past nine months and Zuko’s reply really set him off. What did he know of Katara? “-Excuse me! Don't bring Azula into this!” Zuko was really upset and with Sokka bringing up Azula really ticked him off. He took a deep breath to control his raging emotions, exhaled and lightly shoved him away from his path. They were attracting people’s attention with their behaviour. “You should know where your sister went off to if you are that close to her.” he angrily said in a low voice. “Ok now you have done-” Suki pinched the bridge of her nose. “Sokka, you do know that we all are worried about Katara. I don't see why you are irritated at Zuko?” “But Suki-” “-Oh look it’s Captain Boomerang” “Toph?” “It’s Captain Beifong, Sparky.” Sokka, Suki and Zuko suddenly felt all of their anger fade away. Toph felt like a ray of hope in the darkness they were in. They were suddenly so glad to see her that Sokka and Suki swooped in to give her a hug. Zuko awkwardly lingered behind. Sokka said while nuzzling his bearded cheek on her smooth skin “Oh look at you Toph! You are a sight for our sore eyes!” “Ouch, stop it!” Toph lightly pushed them away and pretended to dust her metalbending uniform to hide her happiness on her face. She looked up at them with her unseeing eyes. “Y’all seem to have seen better days.” “Yeah tell me about- OH” and Zuko fell for that. Slapping his forehead, he wasn't in the mood for anymore distraction, sighing, he decided to quickly cut directly to the chase. “Toph, do you know where Katara is?” Toph stares at them, her unseeing eyes sometimes unnerved them, more than her uncanny ability to look through people’s lies. She then turns around and asks them to follow her to her office. “We have a lot to talk about.” ___________________________ Elsewhere, a little girl was quietly trying to go through her firebending katas that her teacher taught her to. She mentally counted them, going through the routine very carefully, aiming to not make any mistake as her teacher supervised her from a distance. She stood still, took a deep breath and carefully moved her outstretched hands in a circle, concentrating to do it as perfectly as she could. She was determined to make her teacher proud, but she miscalculated. A slight misstep and voice cut through her focus. “Again.” “Uggghh, again? Teacher, I'm hungry.” “Stop whining and redo it again. You’ll get food only when you master this perfectl-” “Sui! Lana! Food is ready!” yelled a voice from a distance. The little girl, around the age of eight, looked at her teacher with starry eyes, wordlessly pleading to let her go. The teacher slapped her forehead and agreed, grumbling on her way back to the quaint little house on the hill. Sui, the little girl, ran, jumping over logs and rocks, squealing in anticipation of her much awaited break. She bursts into the house, yelling “I’m home!” and rushes to the table. “I made your favourite, Sui - Sea Prunes.” “Oh Spirits! Thank you Thank You Thank you Kya! You are the best” “Better than Lana?” The lady teased. The teacher huffed and rolled her eyes, sitting opposite her student. “You bet.” said Sui, giggling in a conspiring manner with the Lady. “Start eating Kya or else the food shall get cold.” said Lana, digging into her soup. It was an acquired taste and though she wouldn't say it outright, she thought it was delicious. “Fine, fine, Lana. No need to be so grumpy all the time.” The lady - Kya, sat at the head of the table and started eating after saying a little prayer. “So, how was your training?” she asked the little girl and Sui, eager to tell about her day and her teacher, started talking about her practice with full gusto as she spoke enthusiastically with her mouth full. Lana interrupted her to remind her of her manners as Kya quietly laughed behind her hand, taking in the moment. She was content.
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Dearest Toph,
I know you hate letters so I shall keep this letter short.
You were right. Thank you.
(PS: I have sent you a piece of this beautiful rock. Since you claim to be the best earthbender to ever exist, let’s see if you can bend this rock into a beautiful pendant without breaking it.)
Sugar Queen
“That’s it? THAT IT?! Exclaimed Sokka as he gripped the letter and read through it again and again. The letter was written by Katara and was the last piece of communication that anyone in the gang had with her. It was sent to Toph nine months prior and as Sokka, Suki and Zuko read through it, each taking turns, they were all baffled at the short and curt message and simply gaped at Toph, who sat before them and just shrugged.
They were sitting in the living room of Sokka and Suki’s apartment in Republic City. It was a quaint little place with earthy tones, a mish-mash of water tribe blues and earth kingdom greens that reflected the personalities of both Sokka and Suki. It was a cozy space that was quite homely and private enough to have important discussions without the fear of anyone eavesdropping upon their conversations. “Yeah, what else did you expect? A sob story about her being in trouble?” asked Toph, rolling her unseeing eyes, as she picked a skewer of dumplings, plucked one with her teeth and relished it. Irked by her words, Sokka folded the letter and placed it in front of them, on the table, his arms crossed. “No but.. There needs to be more information somewhere about where she went off to!” “Sokka’s right Toph. Katara, couldn't have suddenly gotten up and left. There must be some kind of reason as to why she took such a drastic step.” added Suki, concerned about Katara and what could have happened in her life that she didn't tell neither her brother nor her. She wondered when they had drifted apart that Katara was missing for the past few months and they weren't even aware of it until they decided to drop in at Air Temple Island, where Aang had coldly told them that she had gone off to the Fire Nation. “What if she was… being blackmailed? Threatened?” “Seriously Sparky? Why do you even think anyone would blackmail or threaten the last waterbender of the southern water tribe who also” Toph used the skewer to pick something stuck between her teeth, ”happens to be a bloodbender?” Zuko was quiet, with a tea cup in his hand. He takes a sip of his tea. It was the normal kind, no distinct taste, just bitter. He needed to improve his brewing skills. Zuko pondered upon what Toph said. It was a good question. What could have prompted Katara to take such a huge step? He knew Katara… she wasn't this impulsive. However when it came to the people she loved… “..when one’s loved ones are threatened… people often take such drastic steps..” He placed the tea cup on the water tribe emblem patterned tea coaster and looked at them seriously. “Maybe Aang was in danger and she decided to deal with it herself?” It was quiet. They could hear laughter as a few people passed by their window. The windows were closed shut and the curtains drawn. It was late in the evening and the silence in the room was abruptly cut by Toph’s dry laughter. “Haha, you all are so far from the truth.” She pretended to wipe a tear from her eye. Suki was upset by her behavior. She felt Top was misleading them on purpose. Too much time had been lost yet the earthbender was the last clue to Katara’s whereabouts. She asked her “What do you mean?” “Maybe the reason why Katara disappeared was..” she paused to create an unbearable suspense. Leaning forward on the low table, Toph points the skewer at them, smirking “..because she was being smothered?”” “Smothered? By whom?” “Aang and.. You. Sokka.” “Me!” Sokka was affronted, How could Toph accuse him of something so absurd. Katara is his sister, of course he would be worried about her. He stands up irritated. “Toph this is no time for mind games. Do you know where Katara is?” The metal bender kept sitting in her spot, not caring of the growing anger within the water tribesman. She was aware of his anguish yet some things needed to be said. “Ask Suki if you dont believe me.” Sokka turned to look at Suki, his wife, imploring her to reject those words. She took Sokka’s hand and pulled him down to sit beside her. “I think it is time we retire to bed. Let’s discuss this in the morning.” she said, sighing as she smiled tiredly at them. Toph and Zuko got up. “Don't stay up late you two.” said Zuko, “ we need to decide what to do, tomorrow itself. No more delays.” “Yeah, yeah Zuko. Go sleep.” said Sokka in a dismissing manner. Huddling close to Suki and speaking in hushed tones as he anxiously gesticulated about some matter while Suki suddenly held his hands, within her own, kissed them and stared at him with a caring smile, calmly quenching all of his worries. That was the last thing he saw before he shut the door, leaving the couple to their privacy.
Katara kissed his hands when he had hurt them while picking wood for a fire. He was embarrassed that such a simple task was made complicated by his lack of knowledge despite being on sea for years, but then again, no one expected a prince to know the difference between the different types of wood and what would be best for a small fire in the woods while traveling. Katara had quietly laughed and healed him. Tracing the rough ridges on his palms after years of sword training, he remembers how gently she caresses his palms as he told her about his sword training with Master Piandao. He was so engrossed in his story that he had almost not felt the light kiss on his palm.
But he did. And he wished to kiss her beautiful hands and do so much more . “Do you miss her?” He forgot Toph was beside him. A lot. “She cut me off from her life.” They walked the small corridor that led them to their rooms. “Then why are you worried about her?” Because I lo- “because we are friends.” he replied stoically, not in the mood to continue this conversation forward. He knew Toph was aware of his racing heart and he also knew that she knew he was in no mood to talk about her. Hearing her name was always like ripping off the bandages over his fragile heart and letting it bleed all over again. He respected her wishes when she told him that she was going back to Aang because it was the right thing to do and she was a woman of her word and it was her destiny to marry a powerful bender and he smiled, reassuring her that he wasn't hurt by her words. He remembers standing there, calmly, faking his happiness as Aang had pulled her into his arms, when he came to pick Katara up because his trip had ended early. He had cracked a joke about lovebirds and bees or something as he felt his heart shattering into smithereens, deep within him. Six months later, he had gotten a letter from Katara that she was an engaged woman now and that was the last letter he had ever received from her. This was four and a half years ago. Since then, he saw her at the Yearly Summits with Aang. Always in passing and never alone. There was a huge ravine between them that seemed impossible to cross and yet…he knew he was crazy enough to attempt to jump over it even if it took his life. But she never gave him that chance. She stayed away. And he stayed away. Honoring her unspoken wishes. “Friends don’t rush to search for their missing friend by leaving behind the throne without a thought, Sparky.” “Suki did.” “Suki is her sister-in-law. Of course she would go where Sokka would go.” “Toph-” “-Zuko. We all worry about you. Sokka was telling me about how tiredness has become a part of you. “ “Sokka and his big mouth.” he rolled his eyes. He patted her head, ruffling her hair in the process as Toph grumbled “Don't worry Captain Beifong, I’ll be alright.” “Yeah you better be, Sparky because we are leaving early tomorrow morning to one of my holiday estates and we can't have you and Sokka moping around about ‘ oh katara did this and that !” He gave a short laugh. “I don't sound like that Toph” “Oh you do. You just don't know it.” she playfully smirked. They reached the doors to the guestrooms. Zuko could hear Sokka and Suki still talking about something. The discussion probably turned into an argument. The short walk to their rooms felt very long for no reason. The guest rooms were beside each other. He holds the door open and turns to Toph. “See you in the morning.” She gives him a playful punch on his forearm as Zuko yelped. Her punches were getting stronger. He rubs his arm as she tells him “don't dream of Katara all night long” and walks into her room, closing her door. ______________________________
Sokka couldn't sleep all night. After that discussion with Toph he was feeling a mix of emotions. Relief at atleast a clue where Katara could be . Annoyance at how could Toph say that ? Frustration at was he that smothering? And anger at how could Aang lie to him? He stared out of the window at the people bustling about down in the street going about their day. It was dawn and he was wide awake while the people down there must have had a refreshing sleep and seemed energized while here he was trying to calm the inner turmoil within. Suki slept soundly on the bed and he didn't want to disturb her. He mind replays the events that happened last night. After Zuko and Toph left them alone, he turned to Suki and asked her about what the metalbender meant. Did he really smother her? But what does Toph know about ‘smothering’? He was Katara’s brother. Of course he would be worried about her. Katara had everything figured out before her. She was the waterbender, a war hero and now engaged to the avatar-the most powerful man in the world. What more could she want? He shared all of this with Suki and she listened to him carefully only to respond with “do you remember when you were trying to figure out who you are”. She paused, staring deep within his eyes, as if imploring him to see things from his sister’s point of view, “and what your role would be in the war while katara was mastering waterbending?” “Yeah but-” “-Katara is at that stage now.” He breathes in sharply, pulling his hands away from her grip, surprised at her words, standing up. But she was not done. “Katara is lost. Figuratively and literally.” “No-” “-Yes Sokka. Katara has never had the time to figure out who she is and what she wanted for herself-” Sokka was getting agitated. Katara always seemed to have everything in her grasp. No matter how tough a situation looked, she adapted and wrestled it in her control. Everything was in her favour, yet she was unhappy? “She isn't happy with her life? Is that what you are trying to say?” “Sokka you need to listen and think! Not jump to conclusions!” “I am not jumping to conclusions! Are you telling me that Katara is unhappy with Aang?!” “YES! She did seem so when she last visited us a year ago! Don't you remember the last meeting she had attended and how she was rebuked by the tribe elders over her delay in her marriage?!” They were speaking loudly and hearing this, Sokka felt as if a bucket of cold water was poured on his head. He immediately remembered the last meeting that he attended with Katara. The whole tribe was there, discussing the new projects that the northern water tribe was eager to invest in. Katara had loudly refused to let the Southern water tribe scenery change and become an offshoot of the Northern Water Tribe but an elder who had migrated from the Northern Water Tribe quickly shut her down and asked her what right did she have about the development of the Southern Water Tribe when she spent the year round on the other side of the world. A few others had agreed with the elder and things escalated to such a point that someone rudely told her to simply focus on the avatar’s personal affairs. Their father- Chief Hakoda strongly rebuked that elder and quickly brought the meeting under control with his strong voice yet the damage had been done. The words had pierced Katara’s heart. She wasn't needed there. Sokka tried to tell her that they were wrong and that the doors of the Southern Water Tribe were always open for her but it was too late. She left the next day, soon after dawn. And that was the last time Sokka saw her. The Water Tribesman turned and decided it was no use dawdling. He decided to change his clothes and go through his packed stuff, after all this was going to be a long journey. Suki was fast asleep as they had a late night and he wanted her to rest as much as she could because once they hit the road, she wouldn't be able to do that. He walked out of his room, only to run into Zuko in the living room who seemed to be meditating. “Had a good night?” he asked. Zuko opened his eyes and faced him, tiredly smirking, “If you call suffering from insomnia a good night then yeah.” “Tell me about it buddy.” he sat opposite of the Fire Lord and yawned loudly. “I dont know how we’ll even find Katara.” Zuko got up to find a teapot in the kitchen. He poured water, boiled it on the stove, add the tea leaves and after some time, brought it over to the table with the tea cups. He poured some tea in a cup and passed it over to Sokka, and then poured some for himself too. “Toph told me that we’ll start with the Beifong estates. Maybe we might find some more clues.” “We’ll see how that goes. " A sip. "Damn your brewing skills are improving Fire Lord.” “Thanks buddy” _______________
Achoo
“Kya that is your third sneeze!” Kya wiped her nose with a handkerchief. She could feel a cold blossoming within her. Her throat was sore and her nose runny. She shouldn't have stayed out in the rain with Sui. But Sui wanted to see what she could do with rain drops and she couldn't say No to that adorable face. And now she faced the consequences. She had promised Sui that she would take her to the festival and as the little girl stood before her, looking at her with expectant eyes, she didnt want to let her down. “Don't worry Sui, I’m still coming to the Festival with you.” “Dont be stubborn Kya. I’ll take Sui. You go rest.” And Lana was there to pour water on her plans. The teacher was too stuck up and uncontrollable, her rage having no control. She was picky with her food and so arrogant at first. It was surprising to see her change so much in a few months. “But-” “-I cant believe I’m saying this, but I’ll take care of everything.” Sui giggled behind her hand and touched her shoulder, wordlessly asking her to lean down. Kya listens to her and bends down on one knee, sniffling. The little girl loudly whispers in her ear. “Lana doesn't even know how to take care of herself. A pause. “I heard that!” yelled Lana loudly who was putting on her shoes in the doorway that was a few steps away from the dining table. She walked out of the door, only to peek and shout. “ And I do know how to take care of myself!” Kya and Sui laughed. The little girl then pecked her cheek and told her to rest as she ran out after Lana. Kya chuckled as she closed the door, went into her room, sat down at her desk and pulled out a blank scroll, writing whatever came to her mind.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
“Are you sure we’ll find her here Toph?” “Trust me Sokka, we really will.” It was a not fine day to spend the day hiking on the secluded path that led to the top of the mountain that led to the secluded Mansion on the top of the hill. The BeiFong Holiday mansion was close to the Metalbending Academy and Sokka decided that it would be best if they would start their search from there because in Sokka’s words “What if she is hiding in plain sight?” And so they started off in a Fire Nation ship that was disguised as a merchant ship to move undetected through Fire Nation and Earth Kingdom waters. Zuko had decided upon this small vessel that had a streamlined shape, was fast and would allow them to cover long distances in short periods of time. Inspired by the Water Tribe Cutter sailing ships, the vessel was the brainchild of Sokka who had the wonderful idea of combining Water Tribe Ship shipbuilding knowledge with Fire Nation Technology that was sturdy, fast and could survive the harshest waves. This ship was filled with Zuko’s elite bodyguards and loyalists who would rather die than put the Fire Lord’s life at risk, due to their carefree words or negligence. They were aware to pay a deaf ear to the conversations happening between the Avatar’s friends and the repercussions it could cause if word leaked out. After all, they were carefully handpicked by Fire Lord Zuko and General Iroh themselves. And so after traveling for three days through the Mo Ce Sea, they reached the beach and had to walk further inland to reach the Beifong Holiday. It was a long walk in the dry and humid weather and they all were very tired after stepping on logs and rocks and were dying to rest. As soon as the house came into sight, they stopped to catch their breath. “How did your father even get the idea to build an estate on top of a hill?? Was he inspired by the Airbenders?” Sokka grumbled as he caught his breath. Sweat in his eyes, he took a handkerchief and wiped his face, wishing for Katara’s presence as she would have simply bent the sweat away from him and his clothes. Toph cracked her arms. “I don't know. The house was built even before my father was born. Apparently it was the original seat of the Beifongs, till they decided to settle down in Gaoling.” They started the small walk to the gate. “Are you sure she is here Toph?” asked Suki, anxious about the whole thing. She didn't want to go back without Katara and really wished for Katara to be here, hidden away amidst the mountains. Suki imagined that she would be enjoying her life, relaxed, far from everything and would be happy to see her. They wait at the gate, filled with apprehension and leaked out in their mannerisms (except for Toph) as Toph showed a card to the guards at the gate who let them in with words of “it has been a long time since the Beifong has graced us with their presence” “Call Shima. I want to talk to her.”, the servant quickly walked into the mansion as another bowed deep in front of Toph, Sokka, Suki and Zuko. “This way Lady Beifong and….” “..you don't need to know who they are.” “Yes ma’am” and the servant kept quiet. She guided them into the guest wing that was separate from the main wing. The shogi doors were open to let the cool air in and they quietly sat down. Sokka loudly whispered “Why didn't you ask for Katara directly?” “Just wait Boomerang.” Shima slid open the shogi door, bowing deep in front of them, welcoming them. She then ushered in a few maids carrying trays of snacks and tea with a wave of her palm. “I hope you and your esteemed guests have a pleasant stay here, Lady Beifong.” “Shima, where is the guest I sent earlier?” Shima, who was an elderly lady with a crooked back, in her seventies, raised her head and looked at them. She was puzzled for a few minutes and said “The waterbender, Lady Beifong?” “Did I send any other waterbender in my absence?” Toph wasn't in the mood for any nonsense. She could sense something was amiss and wanted to confirm what her senses were telling her. Sokka started to eat, famished by the long walk, Suki decided to drink a cup of tea and Zuko poured her a cup. They all stared at Shima, from the corners of their eyes. “Apologies, Lady Beifong.” It started to rain.The raindrops fell on the roof creating a pitter-patter sound. The trees swished lightly as the raindrops fell hard as if eager to meet them. The gentle breezes caressed the leaves and a few raindrops were swept into the room. A servant girl quickly walked up to close the door that led to the garden out. “The lady left a week after she came here.” Their emotions swirled in their minds like the storm outside. ___________________________________________________________________________
Five years ago
Zuko had the worst luck with women. Not just in the romantic sense but in a general sense. His mother was deemed a traitor and was banished for years when he was ten. That was the first time he felt betrayed and heartbroken over why his mother left him and Azula. It didn't help how his father absolutely refused to acknowledge any sign of her existence and would non-verbally threaten to burn anyone who would make a comment about how Zuko resembled his mother in his behavior. The second woman in his life was his sister Azula. An oddity since birth, she was seen as the prodigy who became the apple of their father’s eye ever since she started bending. Her blue flames would capture the eyes of anyone who witnessed them. They would be left mesmerized wat the raw strength in those flames, after all blue was a rare color, something that Ozai always believed was the result of mixing the Royal blood with the Avatar’s. Azula was the destined blessing that was graced on the royal family and Ozai made it known to Zuko, every second. Zuko was the blight on the great lineage while Azula was the blessing. And all of the Royal Court was aware of that fact. Zuko wasn't blind to the way everyone favored Azula and catered to her needs first.
“Prince Zuko, Princess Azula should be served first.”
“Prince Zuko, you shall focus on the basics - well done Princess Azula”
“Well done Azul- do better Zuko!”
“Do better Zuko!”
“-suffering shall be your teacher..”
Everyone in the Royal court would listen to him out of their allegiance to the Royal family lest they would anger the Fire Lord. However, upon his banishment, everyone realized that the next to the throne was Azula, not him, and he was sent on a wild goose chase around the world. Zuko later realized that his father perhaps had a miniscule amount of love in his heart for his son, for he didn't send assassins to kill him off. Though Zuko wouldn't put it past him to do that as well. So, coming back to his perfect, not a hair in place sister, Azula was driven to perfection. And that was what drove her to madness. He was seventeen then. Azula looked up highly at Ozai to such an extent that when she realized she was just a tool for him, she decided to set the world on fire. Literally. And he tried to stop her... and his father. The whole time he fought her, with Katara at his side, he was on the edge of his toes. He felt her intent to kill him when he jumped in front of the lightning to save Katara and felt betrayed at how his sister, his own flesh and blood could kill him at the drop of the hat. Did their history, their happy memories of their childhood, no matter how less and trivial they were, mean nothing to her?
And now Mai.
He thought he was over all sorts of heartbreak and that after being crowned the Fire Lord, perhaps everything would be all well. He dreamed of making Mai his Fire Lady, and sharing all of his waking moments with her by his side. She wasn't Katara but that was alright, Mai was Mai and the perfect candidate for him to rule beside.He was fond of her and felt a sense of comfort that he always yearned for… something constant from his childhood. He dreamed of children with his and her features, fiery and demure, that would absolutely spoil and treat them equally even if they were non-benders but that dream was shattered. He never expected Mai to crush him. He trusted her with all of his secrets. He told her about his father, about his travels, even though she was bored to death hearing them, but she still heard him. He knew she was wary about their future and the roles that she would have to get used to and he gave her a lot of time to get used to the idea. The court wanted him to get married at nineteen itself, but he rejected and stood firm like a rock, promising her that he would wait for her till she was ready. But Mai betrayed him. He sat on his throne, thankful for the wall of fire protecting him from others witnessing the emotions on his face as Mai kneeled in front of him between two guards, her hands bound. Her father was found to be a traitor. And Mai gave him all the information he needed. Whether she knew or not.. He didn't know. He wanted to believe that maybe she did it all in ignorance. That maybe her father was blackmailing her or used her filial piety against her. The crown felt heavy. He could feel his father’s nails digging into the skin of his neck, his hand curling tight around his neck, his father’s voice whispering ‘you aren't worthy of respect’ in his ears. He wanted to loosen his collar but any small gesture of weakness would be met with further rebellions. He was already in such a precarious position that one wrong move and the Fire Nation would burn again. Calm .
The mind is like a river. Let your thoughts flow.
He stands up, parting the wall of fire and walks on the platform to Mai. She looks even smaller, staring defiantly at the ground. He wants to have everyone executed who was related to that traitorous governor and make an example of them but then Mai looked up. And his control over his emotions was threatening to burst out. “Take her away.” He keeps staring at her. His love, his trust was all shattered, He had all the power in the world, he could bend the rules and save Mai. She just gave him the location of where he would be. She can be forgiven, can she? But then her Father and the rebels, who tried to assassinate him countless times and wanted the Fire Nation to enter a state of turmoil… that was… unforgivable. Treason was unforgivable. ‘you aren't worthy of respect’ He walked past her, the crown felt even more heavier. His father’s laughter ringed in his ears. He took a deep breath and said “Their sentences shall be announced tomorrow.”
He gave her a chance to explain herself, but she didn't. Mai simply had said that she is guilty and would accept any punishment meted to her, during the court proceedings. Zuko walked out, his action a non-verbal order of the meeting being finished.
Later that day, as he stood in his study, the curtains pulled, with just a candle giving light. A somber atmosphere around them. Zuko wasn't in the mood to numb his pain. He wanted to feel the piercing pain with every fiber of his being as he stood there, unmoving, breaking the stuffy silence only when he felt the need. “Did I… do the right thing Uncle?”
That was how General Iroh found the FireLord. Quiet, with his back turned. Iroh lit a small flame to see in the darkness and stayed quiet. He felt bad for his nephew, aware of his struggles since the age of thirteen. He knew of how close he was to Mai, even if he tried to hide it and sighed as he answered, “Do you think you did the right thing?”
A pause that seemed to last for long. “I don't know what prompted her to pass on information to her father.”
“Humans are complex beings, Zuko. It is hard to pick out the motive behind one’s actions.”
“...it just feels uncharacteristic of her to do so.” “Then why don't you ask her directly?” and that irked Zuko because he knew it was in Mai’s nature to keep things private. She was a quiet girl who would keep her thoughts close to her heart and he knew that no matter how much he would try to pry and let her vent or try to connect with her, she hated the closeness and would call him clingy. “Ask who? Mai? Have you lost your mind Uncle?!” He glared at him, raising his voice, anger flowing like fire through his veins. “Mai..Who was silent during the entire court proceedings? Who keeps a tight leash on her thoughts? Do you expect me to go and ask her outright what prompted her to commit treason because no matter how I think about it, I believe it is uncharacteristic of her to do so?!” “....” “....” “Yes” “....” And it was like a candle was suddenly lit in his mind. He felt as if a bucket of cold water was poured over his head and he was calm. He turned and walked into his private chambers, quickly and quietly as if he was running out time.He walked into his antechambers, where the secret panel was hidden behind a bookshelf. Pressing it, the compartment opened to reveal the blue mask and a pair of black clothes that he had hidden for the nights when insomnia enveloped in its soothing bosom. He quickly changed into it, took the mask and walked out. Initially Iroh stared at him with wide eyes, surprised at the sudden change in his behavior, and rushed after him. He took hold of his upper hand and got the Firelord to look at him “Zuko, don't do anything you’d regret!”
It was late in the evening. Not a soul in sight other than the guards assigned on duty, stood hidden in the corridor. It was dark, with light crystals lightening up the place. There was almost no one who witnessed this moment between the famed General and the Firelord in the corridor, except for the ones hidden. Zuko could feel his emotions flowing through his veins - his anger, his sorrow, his apprehension and his regret over what went wrong. He wanted to see Mai and let her know…
..let her know what?
Pushing off his uncle’s hand, he stared at him straight in the eye. “I’m going to see her.” and he walked away to where she was kept. _______________________________________________________________
Present Time
“Your Majesty, you are finally here!” Zuko, Sokka, Suki, and Toph finally made it back to the ship, tired and irritated. The whole journey was a waste. Katara was not there at the Beifong Vacation house as Toph had assumed and Toph knew that she had to do a hell lot of explaining because she didnt even need her eyesight to see Sokka and Suki glaring at her, brimming with questions. She hated coming to the ship even though the metal framework helped her in ‘seeing’, the rocking ‘to and fro’ sensation made her mind wobbly. “Yknow what, I’m gonna go down to snooze.” Suki saw through her ruse and held her arm tightly “What a great idea! I’m coming with you!” “Oh Spirits! I wanted to go alone-” “Nuh-uh, I am staying with you till you spit it out how in the world did you convince Katara to go on a soul-searching journey?” They went below the deck, the metalbender grumbling while the warrior lightly bantered with her. Sokka watched the entire scene, tiredly yet amused. He turned and stared out at the vast sea in front of him and wondered where did his sister disappear off to. At times like this, he wished he had some kind of spiritual connection with her where he would know what is in her deepest corners of her heart and would be able to easily locate. Childhood was much better because he would protect her from all the bad things but times flew past so fast that now she was somewhere and he was on a Fire Nation ship searching for her. His fourteen year old self would have spit on his face at the irony of him - a Southern Water Tribesman, traveling on a Fire Nation ship.
“Tell the helmsman to set a course for Harbour Town.” He was shaken out of his thoughts when he heard Zuko give orders to the Captain. “I thought we were going to Gaoling.” “We could have, but I dont have time to waste.” Sokka was skeptical at the change of plans. “And how is Harbour Town going to help us?” Zuko sighed, leaning against the railing. He massaged the corners of his forehead as if to erase the migraine that he knew would hit him, once he relaxed. “I know someone who can help us.” He could see Sokka still not convinced. Keeping a hand on his shoulder, he tried to assure of his plan “Trust me.We will surely find her this time, buddy.” They were interrupted by a tall man in the Fire Nation Navy military uniform. He had a stern face with an indiscernible look in his eyes. Something about him reminded Sokka of old military officers of Ozai’s reign. The man stepped forth, bowed deep and presented his hands forward. “Your Majesty. You have a letter.”
Fire Lord Zuko took the rolled scroll from his hands and kept it in his pocket. “Tell the Captain that we must reach our destination by Noon the day after tomorrow. I want no delays.” “Yes your Majesty” and the man left with a deep bow. Sokka stared after him. “There is something off about him.” “I know. But I can't do anything until I have concrete evidence to prove my suspicions.” Sokka turned to look at him, with a questioning expression. "Now that I think about it. You haven't told us how things are faring in the Fire Nation court." "Later Sokka." Zuko's demeanor had changed. He wasnt Zuko now , but spoke as the Fire Lord in a cold, detached tone. "This is neither the time nor place to talk about such matters." Giving him a look, Sokka yawned. “Boy, I'm hungry and sleepy. Suki must be waiting for me." He decided to go down the deck and rest. Thinking about Katar and the state of the world came next. Stopping by the stairs, he turned his head and asked, "You coming?”
“Are you coming Zuko?” The waterbender turned and smiled at him. The scene changed with her smile morphing into an angry frown; she was now standing beside him. Her blue eyes filled with worry as she helped him sit upright by adjusting the huge pillows. She then took the tray and sat beside him.
“You need to eat well, Zuko! The Fire Nation cant have a sick Fire Lord to rule over them” Katara chided him. He knew he was a terrible patient. But for her, he was as pliable as dough and was willing to listen to everything she was telling him. If she told him to jump and bark like a dog, he was ready to do even that.
“Yes... Mother Katara.”
“Did you... just call me... mother?”
“...No”
“You did! AAAghh...You know what.. Take care of yourself then if you think I'm nagging you.” and Katara forcefullt kept the tray of food and was about to stomp away when Zuko caught her hand and pleaded with her to stay. “Don't go!” A series of coughing fits that tugged at Katara’s heart. “I meant it as a... joke.”
Katara rolled her eyes and sighed. With her hair loose, framing her face, she tucked a loose curl behind her ear, took the tray and sat beside him. “You are such a baby. Here let me help you.”
“Anything for you, Katara.” “Are you coming or not, your Flaming Majesty?” Sokka asked him with an amused look on his face. Zuko quickly blinked as if to scatter away the memory that suddenly flashed before him. Lack of sleep was really getting to him to such an extent that now he dreamed of Katara even while awake. “Yeah” “By the way” “Hm” “..I’m not Katara” “Huh?” “...I’m not Katara. You just said her name.” “...” “...” “Just forget that.” “Ok if you say so.” and Sokka’s boisterous laugh echoed across the ship.