Chapter 2:Back to the South Pole – The Beginning
We were getting back to the South Pole. That was a pleasant thought. Finally going back. I almost thought of the word home. No. I will never be able to go back home. You should know that. My home was long lost, along with my people. I and Appa were the last of home. But we were getting back to Sokka's and Katara's home. That was nice to. They would be so happy to see their family again. And I would be happy for them. In a way, that was my home now. But there were loose strings. Toph and Suki. I didn't know if Toph would like to go back to her parent's house. Maybe yes. Maybe not. But I really didn't saw her on the South Pole. There was no earth. She wouldn't see, or bend. But that was simple. Just ask her.
Toph?
Yeah? – She replied with her usual touch of irony.
Can you come here for a moment? – I called her softly. Katara was distracted, lost in thoughts. She looked that way very often lately. I wonder what she is thinking about. Maybe about her future life. I could really ruin someone's life. I was such an idiot! Always making her suffering –
What do you want Twinkle Toes? – Toph was right beside me.
I wanted to ask you something – I wasn't really sure about how to speak with her. I could go right into it, or try to circle around. She would rather prefer going head on to business. – What do you want to do now? Do you want to come with us to the South Pole, or would you rather go to your parent's house?
She looked sad, and I regret myself about asking her. But sooner or later I would have to.
Well, I do miss my parents. But they are not the comprehensive kind. The South Pole sounds good, but I don't think I will be able to see. There is just ice, isn't it? – She sounded really puzzled. I could understand. On ice she wouldn't see. But…
Yes, but I will tell you something. I will not be staying on the South Pole very long. I have to fulfill my training, in Waterbending. That will only be possible on the North Pole, because Katara is the only master on the South Pole, and although she is a great master, I feel like I have to learn all kinds of bending. That means I will have to travel a lot on the next months, maybe years-
Did you tell that to Sugar Queen? – She was fast like lightning.
I kind of told her that I will need to travel, and if she wants to come with me. She said yes. But I don't want to mess her life. She has a family, and I don't want to separate them. That's not fair.
Well, she really likes you. I can see that. Oh, and don't worry, I won't tell anyone about your relationship – I looked up at her, somehow surprised, although I knew she had sensed something on the day before – Yeah, I know, I "saw" you two kissing yesterday. And it was about time, let me tell you.
So… You're ok with that? – I was really amazed with Toph. She could surprise anyone when we less expected.
Twinkle Toes, I don't care. If that makes you two happy, go ahead. Sokka won't like that. Not a single bit. Probably he will try to kill you; he is so protective on Katara.
Thanks for reminding me that. Katara's brother would be my bigger challenge. He wouldn't approve, after all I was two years younger than is sister. And being the Avatar only would mess things up.
But we are already running away from the original topic. What do you want to do?
Now she was puzzled again. I let her think. We flew quietly about fifteen minutes, and then she got up and said:
I will be with you Twinkle Toes. After all, you have a lot to learn from me to. Now let me get back there, before Sugar Queen gets jealous.
Smiling, she went to her side of the saddle. Appa was full of energy, what would keep us flying for the rest of the day. I felt thankful for her strong friendship. That girl was really like a rock. Strong. Although, I would like to help her go through her parents. That would be nice. For now, I had to focus on getting a place for spend the night. Maybe some desert island. We were not at war anymore, but all of us had agreed in finding someplace calm and private. We were flying over the ocean, and until the horizon, all we could see was blue water, and above it the clear blue sky. The sky made me think about Katara's eyes. For telling the truth, almost everything would resemble to something about her: the water, the grace of the wind…
For thinking about her, I realized something. Yesterday when we were kissing, I was thinking about be able to go into the Avatar state. I couldn't let go of Katara so I was disabled to enter the State. But during the battle with the Fire Lord, when he threw me against the rocks, my chakra was somehow unlocked. That meant that the chakra was permanently unlocked right? What if I could go into the Avatar State every time I wanted without letting go of her? That would be the best thing that ever happened to me! I had to try. Only in a time of need of course. I didn't like to play around with the Avatar State. I couldn't always control it. It could be so destructive. Oh well. I had a lot to learn before I reached that point. My life was kind of a mess right now. A mess, because all my life was pointed to the battle against the fire Lord, and now, I had few objectives to fulfill. I had to master Waterbending, Earthbending, and Firebending. That would sound very much, but for me… Well, I was been stupid. To tell the truth, I wanted some peace on my life, and try, but just try, to take so much responsibility of my shoulders. Although, I knew I would never, ever going to fulfill this one. I was the Avatar after all, and I had to keep alert for the world. This made me feel somehow guilty. About Katara. About dragging her into this. I hoped I had any other fight like this one during my life, but if something happened to her because of me…
We flew for several hours, and Appa was beginning to feel tired. There was not much of a conversation between us all; I was sitting on Appa's head as usually; Toph was talking with Katara, and the two were playing with Momo, what would explain the fact of the two of them getting along; And Sokka was asleep, with Sukki next to him. Friendship was palpable in the air. We all got to knew each other, until we were one big family. And-
I've told you several times, and in case of no one notice it, that I'm blind! – Toph was yelling at Katara.
I knew it wouldn't take much more until they were fighting again. What in the name of the spirits had happened down there? Toph was going to the other side of the saddle, angry like… like… like Toph looked when she was angry. There was no description to her face. Katara was frowning.
Hey! What happened down there? – I asked the both.
Oh, nothing at all! Really! It's just that Sugar Queen thinks I am some kind of, I don't know, normal kid, with usual eyes!
I've never said anything like that! – Katara was looking embarrassed, though – I just-
You just keep your mouth shut! Before I go back on my decision and go back to my house!
Hey!!! – Everyone looked back – What does a man have to do to have some sleep! By all the spirits on the world! Do I ever get to sleep just a little bit with you?
Sokka had been awakened. Toph and Katara looked at him with fierce eyes. He silenced on the same moment.
You are probably tired, and both need to calm d-
Sukki didn't have the chance to finish the sentence.
I'm completely calm!!! – Yelled Toph and Katara at once. Sukki looked afraid and mostly surprised. She had never seen Toph and Katara fighting. Well, they would figure out sooner or later that the other was overreacting. And then they would go back and fight again.
I sighted. Why didn't they just get along?
That reminded me about the two brother's goodbye. They had said goodbye to their father, because he would return to the South Pole with all the other water Tribe warriors. They had been separated for so long and now again. But they would be together in a few weeks. And then-
And then it will be you to separate them. How didn't Ithink of that before? I was so blind, thinking of the trip to the North Pole, and all the other things, that I completely forgot that when I decided to get there, and take Katara, and perhaps Sokka with me, I would put them apart? Oh what a selfish! Selfish, selfish, selfish! Whatwould I do? I couldn't, mustn't do that! And the better part, oh yes, because that was getting even better, was that I hadn't the guts to talk with them about that matter. But I would have to. Sooner or later. But for now, I would try and talk with Toph, and Katara.
Hey Katara! Can you come up here? – The water bender rose gracefully and came to my side. When she sat, Katara was looking to the sea, not into my eyes. I wondered what had gone wrong, and mostly, why she always looked distracted lately. She was always absent. I didn't like that. – What was that all about?
She didn't answer right away. I gave her some space to think. When she finally spoke, she looked straight into my eyes, all the blue power focused on me.
I made a mistake ok? I told Toph that the ocean was beautiful, and that I would like that she was able to see it. Then I asked about how she felt with being away from her family. Until there everything was ok. Then… I just told her that if she could see, maybe her life would have turned out different. Maybe she didn't run away with us. And… Oh, I'm such a stupid person! – She raised her arms to the sky, and then let them fall over her head. The ocean below us made some waves that weren't suppose to be done.
No, you are not a stupid person. You just worry about your friends, and want them to feel better. But you can't always do that. And then you think you have failed.
But I just keep going and hurt people! If I could only keep my big mouth shut. Toph is right. – She was begging to cry. But that didn't make much sense. After all Toph had screamed that she was blind. And Katara just said that the earth bender was angry because of her parents.
You aren't telling everything are you? – I looked into her eyes. She faced me, and then looked away. She spoke in such a low voice that I could barely hear her.
I…I… - she stopped, and then continued – I just… Kind of teased her. You know she is always teasing with us… And she teased about how I feel… Right now. And I told her to mind her own things. And that she could see perfectly that I am kind of... sad. So she called me a selfish, which I have to admit, I am, and then… you know. – Katara stayed quiet, and looking very sad.
She had been mean, but she wasn't selfish. Toph was strong like a rock, and said whatever she wanted to say without thinking of the consequences. I sighted. Katara looked at me, and again I saw that she had been lost in thoughts and was very sad. I only hoped that the reason wasn't me. For now, I had something else to worry about.
You have to put things clear. Oh! Appa is getting tired – below, my bison was groaning. Carry so many people for an entire day was exhausting for him – We better get some place to land. Sokka! I need your help! – Katara stood where she was silently. Sokka came.
What is it Aang? Is Katara trying to murder you? – He laughed at his joke – Careful or she will kill your ears!
Sokka! Just shut up ok? And try to focus for a second.
Oh, ok, what do you want? – Sokka sat, but behind, Suki and Toph were also listening.
We need to find some place to spend the night. Back in Ba Sin Se, you told me that you knew an island to stay.
Sokka thought for a minute, and then got his maps. He was from us all, the best for finding good places. Although he was a goofy sometimes, he was also the smartest, and a good leader. When he got back, he sat and looked to a map for several minutes.
We are around here… - He pointed to a place on the ocean. – So… I think that by sunset we will be around this area… What means… that we can stay on these islands – he pointed again to the map, only this time he showed us some little islands. That would be a good place to stay. – What do you think? I believe it's the best we can find.
Well… If Snoozles thinks it is the best place… Who am I to tell the other way? – Toph was really anxious to find a place where she could see. She hated flying. –After all, I am willing to see again. All this flying it's just annoying.
Katara looked uncomfortable. She still was blaming for teasing Toph.
I agree with Toph – said Suki – I am feeling all bruised for flying. I would welcome some land.
We all need to rest – said Katara.
Then it's settled! – Said Sokka happily – We are staying on those islands, and for the first time in one year, I'll sleep! And no one, but no one at all dares to interrupt me! Ok? – He looked angry. Then is face went soft – Please?
Everyone started to laugh. Sokka was such a goofy guy. We needed
that. We continued our journey, until by the end of the day; the islands appeared on the horizon. All of us needed some rest. The journey was extenuating and that was making everybody irascible.
By sunset, we got to the island. When Appa landed, he let out a relieved grunt. He was happy for having some rest. He had a very hard day. Carrying five persons plus Momo, and all the stuff we had, wasn't easy. He let himself lie down, rolling, happy. Then he fell asleep. The rest of us set the camp. Toph helped with the tents, Sokka unload the food, and clothes. Katara and Suki lit a fire, and started cooking. I went around, seeing the island. It was small, with some trees, and a small river. Momo flew between the trees, catching some berries on the way. It was a calm place, with a peaceful aura. I go back to the camp. Appa was still sleeping, and all the other were still doing dinner. I went helping. Everybody was in a considerably better mood, after the long flight. Toph was relieved to finally seeing. Suki and Sokka were enjoying some time together; they had gone for too much, since Sukki was made a prisoner during the war; Sokka went to rescue his father, and also found her. The warrior had been there for some time, and when they were finally reunited, both had felt the marvelous feeling of freedom. That was something nice. Really nice. The love was bright like the sun between the two. Toph was earth bending some rocks into the sea, just for fun.
The night went on, after dinner, we all sat on circle, and chatted. Everyone was in a good mood. I had a thought. Although Toph had told me that she didn't want to see her parents, I thought she did. She missed them, and after the letter, we didn't have any news about them. I had to talk with her.
And then, I said "Not so good now, isn't Loser Lord?" Oh, for all the spirits, he was so ridiculous! – Sokka was telling Katara about the Fire Lord jokes he had created, after the Fire Lord was defeated. – Then he said "I'm the Phoenix King!" Ah, ah, ah! And then… he fell! Ah, ah, ah!
Everyone laughed at this. Sokka really knew how to tell a funny story.
I wish I was there. That mused have been worth to see! – The water bender looked amused. I felt happier. The sadness looked a bit away now.
Yeah Sugar Queen, you should have seen it! Snoozles here was so brave facing the Fire Lord! Of course, after he was helpless and with no bending at all! Ah, ah, ah! – If Sokka could have blushed, he would.
No, I will wait until everyone goes to bed. Toph was happy. I wouldn't mess her amusement, with her family. That was a touchy theme.
Later, Sokka and Suki went to their tent. Then was Katara that rose. When she passed by me, she whispered "Good night", and threw me a hesitant smile. I smiled back. At last, Toph. She didn't move from where she was sitting.
What do you want? – The little girl sighed. – I know that you want to tell me something. Maybe… about my parents, I'm I right?
Yes. – I sighted – I think you should go and speak with your parents, even if you don't want to stay with them.
Ah… I don't want to go back to live with them, your right about that. And… I suppose... I could try to talk with them. After all you won the war.
No. We all did. But they must be proud of you. – I really meant it. Her parents should be proud. Who wouldn't after the daughter shows that she is much more powerful than looks? - So, what do you say?
That I would like to go. But, when? I mean, we are going to the South Pole, not to my parents' house.
I could take you there. I have to ask Sokka where to go, but I think it's only a day away.
Ok. I'm going to bed now. Tomorrow it's going to be a big day. God night.
Then, Toph went near the tents, and as usual, she earthbend her own tent, making a lot of noise, as the stone rose from the ground.
TOPH!!! – Sokka yelled – Bend your tent earlier next time! You that all that Earthbending do a lot of noise!
Oh, I'm sorry Snoozles. You mean this – and she earth bended the tent into the ground and back up – makes a lot of noise?
Why? Why can't I sleep?
I chuckled. Those two were so funny. Toph loved to tease Sokka. Oh well, they had to deal with their own problems. I went to Appa's back, and fell asleep.
***
After Sokka finally shut up, I turned back on my sleep bag. I had been feeling in a very strange way. Sometimes I felt just normal, and right after sad, very sad. Aang had noticed it. Sometimes during the flight he would look on my direction with a worry look on his eyes. He probably thought I was like this for something that he did. Not at all. It wasn't anyone's fault. I just wasn't ok.
I couldn't sleep very well lately. I would turn on my sleep bag for some hours until I finally got to sleep. Since Zuko's coronation that I felt this way, but now it was worse. I just hope I wasn't getting sick. I tried to sleep, although only several hours lately I could really do it.
The next morning, everyone was in a better mood. Toph was almost... Light hearted. That was funny. She always had the best mood, but since yesterday we had fought… Well that was good. Sokka was already packing up the tents, while Suki made breakfast. Aang was feeding Appa, and when I saw him, I felt happier. He was getting taller very fast now. He was almost my high. And he also had grown very much through the last year. And … Wait a minute. If he already was twelve when Sokka and I found him, he must be turning thirteen. I had to ask him. But first, tasks.
When everything was packed, we went to eat something. Some minutes later Toph spoke:
Everyone, I have something very important to ask you.
What is it Toph? – asked Suki.
Last night, I decided that I should go and talk with my parents. Aang supported me, and I wanted to ask you all-
You're leaving? – Toph turned her head on Sokka's direction. He was astonished, and with a horrified look on his face.
In a matter of fact, no. If you let me finish the sentence you would notice that I want to speak with them, and then stay with you. I want to keep this life. Since I joined you, I have friends, and a real life. I don't want to miss that.
Oh. Right. You're right. – Sokka looked embarrassed now. – Well, then we have a new objective now. Going to the Earth Kingdom again.
I promise I won't take very long.
Hey, we all are friends; we don't care how long you stay with your parents. – Suki was supportive – So you just go, and all of us will be right there with you. For all the time you need.
Thanks guys. That means a lot to me.
Let's go then! – Now I spoke – We have no time to waste! Let's go before it gets late.
We went toward Appa. Everyone stayed on their usual places, as Appa rose into the sky.
Aang?
Yes Katara? – He looked at me in such a sweet way that almost made me cry. What was wrong with me?
Well, I was wondering… We met for almost a year now… and I wanted to know… When is your birthday?
Oh! I completely forgot about my birthday! – He was really surprised. I wandered what kind of things do you forget when you are one hundred years on ice. – I was born on autumn, on the beginning, so I guess I already am thirteen. Oh! I'm thirteen!
I couldn't help to laugh. He was older, and didn't even realize! That was funny.
And when is your birthday? – Aang asked, also amused.
On the end of the winter, so as Sokka's. We have two days of difference between births. – I had to give him a gift. And I just knew the thing.
Hum… I have to think on a gift – he looked thrilled with the though.
You have to think on a gift? What about me? I'm already late!
Yeah, I guess you're right. You are late!
Hey! Guys! I have an important announcement to make! – Everyone stare at us.
What is it Katara? Another speech about hope? – Sokka's tone was sarcastic. As always.
Ah, ah, very funny indeed. No, Aang's thirteen!
What?
When was your birthday?
Why didn't you tell us?
Well, I guess I kind of forgotten. I realized that just a minute ago.
You really are amazing.
Why do you have to be so sarcastic, Sokka? – I asked my brother.
Because it is my identity. Sokka the sarcasm and meat guy.
Well, happy dilated birthday Aang! – said Suki. She didn't mind Sokka provocations towards no one, including her.
You keep going Twinkle Toes!
Thanks guys, but we could keep going on. We have an important task ahead.
We continued flying, amused, and with the friendship everywhere.
We flew during all that night also. By morning we were on the Earth Kingdom. We made a stop to rest. Appa was a bit tired, and now there was no need to take him to the exhaustion. Aang and Momo flew around to watch for strangers around our camp. Everyone went to rest, and for the first time in some nights, or even better mornings, for the sun had already risen, I could sleep.
By the afternoon, we wake up. I bended water from a near river, for cooking. Now we were five, plus Momo and Appa, we had to get more food. On the next day we would arrive to Toph's house. We decided we would go in our best clothes. After all, the Bei Fong family was one of the richest of all the Earth Kingdom. I already knew what I was going to wear. The green dress. And that was really on the right spot. The next night I would give my gift to Aang. It wasn't much of a gift, more a speech. I hoped he'd like.
That night, we got everything ready for the next day. We would have to wake up early, in order to get to the Bei Fong's house on the right time. Toph was eager, and anxious. She was spooky all day, always walking from one place to another. She really wanted to meet her parents, but in the other hand, didn't want to face them. I could understand her. I would feel the same way. Sokka was worry about how he looked; only he could feel that way, when it was Toph that needed support.
Later, I couldn't hold up any longer and went talk with her.
She was sitting on a rock; bending and re-bending the piece of space earth that Sokka had given her. When I got near her, she pretended I wasn't there. I spoke anyway.
Toph, are you ok? You look so absent.
Her answer was surprisingly soft.
I'm… So worried. What if my parents don't love me anymore – tears were rising up to her blind eyes; the pale green started to glow – What if they don't forgive me for running away? You know that my father pay to those men to have me back home… But what if he doesn't like me anymore? I… I don't know what to do.
Then she silenced. I was surprised. Toph wasn't the speech type. I was feeling sorry for her; after all she still loved her parents, although they had stolen her freedom.
Don't worry. – I hugged her. Hugging people was becoming a habit. – I'm sure they'll forgive you. And you'll see your father will find out that you are a strong, young woman, that it's not as helpless as he thought.
You're right – the earth bender washed away her tears. – He has to see now. He has to listen to me. After all, I only want to see them now, because I won't in a long period of time. I really want to stay with you. You have been my family, and my friends. I feel like I have a life now.
That's what I like to hear! That's the spirit!
Toph hit me on the arm with her fist. Her way to show affection was so painful.
Thanks Katara. But don't you ever, ever tell anyone that I cried like a little baby, do you hear me?
O-ok. Don't worry.
I let her on the rock and got back to the camp. Aang looked at me. I would find him staring at me once in a while. He was worried about my sadness. I walked towards him.
Hi.
Hi.
Ready for tomorrow?
What do you mean?
You'll see.
We need to go somewhere – I had the same idea. We didn't stayed together since we left Ba Sin Se, some days ago.
Let's go to the river – I said out loud – I have a new Waterbending movement to show you.
We went to the river. The sun was setting. That reminded me of our "first" kiss, back in Ba Sin Se. On that afternoon, I had been so happy for finally be able to do something to our relationship. Since then, I had been feeling sad, so sad, and without reason. Aang was also staring at the sun, also lost in thoughts. When he looked back at me, I could only focus on those storm-like eyes, on their beautiful grey… Those eyes had chained me for a very long time. They were so gentle, and kind… And when he looked at me I would feel all the love. I couldn't stand that for even a second more. I leaned forward and, grabbing his face with my hands, I kissed him. He was a little surprised at first, but then, he grabbed me, and kissed back. That was such a strong feeling that I can't describe it. His softness, but also passion was so present on those kisses. I would almost cry with joy…
***
She had surprised me with that kiss. I wasn't expecting. I was looking into Katara's eyes, being lost on their blue… and the she leaned on my direction. That was a pleasant surprise. The few times we had alone were all precious to me.
For only a moment, I could feel like the world was only me and her, only the two of us, and that we could stay like that forever… Silly thought, doe. I knew the world was much more complicated.
We split, and looked almost shy to each other. Katara spoke first:
I-I'm sorry, I just… Got carried away.
Sorry? For what? – I was really confused. That was a pleasant moment, and we had already decided to continue our relationship.
Oh, I thought I'd surprised you, and didn't know if you were upset.
Not at all – as I said this I smiled – in a matter of fact; you can surprise me every time you want.
Katara blushed, and she looked like she was having the same thought.
After this, we only sat on a nearby rock, and stayed there together until the sun set completely. When the moon started to rise, we got back to the camp.
Sokka and Suki had already gone to the tent, but Toph was walking around, but less nervous than it had been. I wondered how she had calm down. Katara kissed me in a soft way and said good night. I whispered back. When I got near Appa, Toph came right to me and said:
I hope I'm doing the right thing. I don't want to mess things with them more than they already are.
You know you are doing the right thing. It is very brave of you to go and meet your parents after you ran away. I'm sure things will work out right.
I really hope so – the she walked away – good night Aang.
Good night.
Then she bended her tent as usual.
TOPH!
Sorry, sleepy head!
Oh, never mind!
I chuckled, as I fell asleep. Tomorrow we had an exhausting day.
