Am I dead?

No Zuko. Not yet. This is only a dream.

Oh…are you dead?

Depends upon what you mean. My heart has been dead ever since I left you.

Then why did you go?

Because I had to, Zuko. I left to keep you safe.

Oh.

Zuko…. I love you. I want what is best for you. I want you to be strong, but more importantly, I want you to smile. I want you to be happy.

I'd be happier if I knew where you were. I'd be happier if you hadn't left—or if you had found me. Why didn't you come back for me?

I am here now.

I suppose.

Oh, Zuko. My poor little Zuko. You are so sad.

Why should I be happy?

Because you are going to survive this Zuko. You will survive to be loved, to be cherished, to be needed, Zuko. You will survive to feed baby turtleducks with your children. You have a future Zuko. It is waiting for you.

Do I want it? Every time the future finds me things happen. Awful things happen. I don't want that to continue. I want to rest.

Oh, Love. You and I both know that you are someone who keeps fighting, even when it is hard. And it will be hard. But you will find it. Happiness is waiting for you, Zuko.

Are you waiting for me? Are you waiting for me to find you?

No, Zuko. I never really left you. I am in your heart. I have always been close. I am so proud of you. My precious Zuko. I love you.

I love you too, Mom.

Now it is time for you to wake up.

But I don't want to leave you.

We will meet again. There are other people who need you more. Goodbye.

The there was the sharp inhalation of breath.

The whisper was soft, almost timid. It was full of worry and fear. Zuko cracked open eyes, despite them being so heavy. A face filled his vision. One that shone with relief—and hope.

"Zuko?"

***

A/N- Okay… so… yeah… this ended up being nothing but fluff. But it may or may not end up as a prologue to a more serious story, which means this one will be pulled down or the name will be changed or something. Or not. I don't know. YOU CAN'T MAKE ME DECIDE! I have too many ideas right now… Ahhhhh! . Sorry… I'm done…

Thanks for reading. I'd really appreciate reviews.