A/N- This is dedicated to Elina, Rayana and George who helped me write it
Disclaimer- I own only Topaz
The Homecoming
Nothing spreads faster than a rumour. The network of gossip may not be very accurate but it sure is efficient. Just an hour after the Battle of the Crystal Catacomb, one of the Dai Li relavyed the events to his wife. Her lady's maid wrote a letter to her sister in Omashu, who was a servant to the governor, who dispatched a report to the Fire Lord. His slaves found out and well, it was all over the city's in half an hour. I was in the marketplace (buying; Komodo sausage, spiced tea and sizzle-crisps) when my friend Ming, came sprinting down the street her hair tangled with leaves. 'He's coming home' she breathed. I didn't have to ask who.
Three years, two months and four days to date; I lost my best friend in the world. I would have gone with him. I would have followed Zuko to the ends of the earth (literally) if it wasn't for Azula. I made Zuko happy, and she resented that. She had me imprisoned the second that his protection no longer applied. Eventually she released me, her only purpose had been prevent me from following him into banishment, but I did not return to my high ranking position. Oh no. Azusa assigned me as one of the attendants to the Council. There are fourteen of us, under the malicious Li Chang. So not only do we suffer physical and mental abuse from the council but from her as well. Ming and I stick together. In a position like ours you need a friend. But now Zuko was returning and rumor has it that the Fire Lord isextremely pleased even proud of him. Maybe things will finally be the Way we were.
It would be weeks of waiting of course, and endless preparation for celebration. But I had something I hadn't in a long time. Hope.