Chapter 3: Arrival
Annie1233: Well I don't know about that... (blushes excessively) But I'm aiming to be as good as I can get that's for sure!
I-Am-My-Own-Biggest-Mystery: It does? Not like...cabbage? *cue Cabbage Merchant
a123b: How come everybody always expects a really mad, bitchy Mai? I mean, sure, she can act the part but still... But there isn't going to be an affair. You'll see why in the later chapter.
"Are we there yet?"
"No."
"Are we there yet?"
"No…"
"Are we there yet?"
"No…"
"... Are we there yet?"
"NO, SOKKA, NOT YET!" Katara nearly yelled at her brother, turning around to shoot him one of her iciest glares. The Water Tribesman smiled sheepishly at his little sister and shrunk back in his seat, knowing that she might blow a fuse quite soon. But it wasn't his fault he was getting more and more bored by the second...
The frustrated sister sighed and turned back on Appa's saddle, keeping her softening glare fixated on the horizon in front of her.
"You'd think at eighteen he'll grow up a little…." she muttered to herself as she leaned back slightly on the edge of the hard saddle, tilting her head back slightly.
Katara's most recent letter to Zuko about their 'vacation' had been very quickly replied-within only three days which was quite fast already. The parchment that had been sent in had been smaller than usual, and only contained five words excluding his name:
Come to the Fire Nation.
She didn't know whether to praise his blunt straightforwardness or question it.
Before Zuko's letter Katara also got confirmation from Suki, Ty Lee and luckily, Toph who had been at home with her family all along in Gaoling-attending all the Earth Rumbles of course. The earthbender had her mother, Poppy to write the reply since she couldn't read or write. Toph had decided to go to the Fire Nation on her own to meet up with 'ole Sparky' as she had put it, to wait for them. Suki on the other hand, had Ty Lee to just bring her straight to Ember Island since the acrobat was pretty much a local of the Fire Nation.
Aang had thought it would be nice to stop by the Royal Palace on Appa for Zuko even though the Fire Lord could've just gone to Ember Island himself with Toph since it was his own country. Despite the Water Tribe sibling's questioning, Aang had both pleaded and insisted to their agreement.
Two days after Zuko's extremely short letter, Katara, Sokka and Aang had packed up to leave for the Fire Nation. Kanna and Pakku had been most insistent about them taking a break after two whole years of restoration and redevelopment.
...
"Are you sure you'll be alright without us, Gran-Gran?" Katara asked her grandmother probably for the thousandth time that day. A worried mask marred on her young face as opposed to the calm expression Kanna wore so coolly.
Katara, Sokka and Aang had finished packing and was about to leave for the Fire Nation on Appa. The sky bison was waiting with Sokka at a small clearing near the village with the Tribe's children who took fascination to the gentle giant. The Water Tribesman was busy loading all their bags onto Appa's saddle as the children played around him. Some sliding down his tail while others just basked themselves in his large, warm, furry build. Their whimsical laughter could be heard from the residence.
"I'll be fine, Katara!" Kanna exclaimed, a wide smile spreading across her face, emphasizing on the character-defining wrinkles that had developed into her skin over the years. She then used her hands to shoo her granddaughter out of their now large but still icy home where Aang and Pakku waited. "Go and enjoy yourself! Spirits, you have been at work for two years without pause! Take a break already! This old woman can take care of herself!"
Katara nearly tripped as her surprisingly strong grandmother pushed her out of their home-no longer the generic igloos but had evolved into stronger, more house or hut-like structures that contributed to the Southern Water Tribe's modernization and development. Only families who preferred the traditional dome-houses chose to keep the igloo design.
Pakku couldn't help but chuckle when he saw his beloved nearly kick his step-granddaughter out of her own house, as well the expression of shock that was plastered over Katara's face. Kanna had always been the pushy type… Just like how Katara had inherited it.
"Kanna's right, Katara," Pakku said, once the two women approached towards him and the Avatar. "You and your brother have been sacrificing so much of your time. I think it'll be good for all of you. Patch up old friendships. You are all still very young. You should enjoy your youth."
Katara scrunched up her nose and exhaled a puff of mist. She silently thanked the Spirits that the day's weather wasn't so cold. She didn't want to wear her thick parka when she was going to the sweltering Fire Nation and had opted for lighter clothing that could still keep her warm. The Southern Water Tribe was also warm enough to allow Aang to wear his usual orange and red Air Nomad garb. The bright, vibrant colours made him stand out in the tribe like Sokka's sore toe whenever he would stub it.
"I know, I know," Katara huffed almost childishly, folding her arms across her chest as she stuck her nose in the air playfully before catching smirks from Pakku, Kanna and Aang. She then sighed and turned to face the older woman.
"Gran-Gran, if you or Pakku need anything, make sure you let me know, alright?" Katara practically grabbed her grandmother by the shoulders and stared wide-eyed at her. "Anything at all! Even if it concerns dad or whatever! You let me and Sokka know okay?" Katara was already on the verge of shaking the woman senseless.
Kanna let out a hearty laugh before placing an arm around Katara's waist, walking her towards the clearing, with Pakku and Aang following closely behind. The two exchanging a few snickers and barely any audible words.
"Child, you worry too much," Kanna chuckled-prompting Katara to blush slightly. "I may be old but I can still handle myself very well. And I'll make sure to keep your new Gramp-Pakku in line."
Behind them Katara could hear Master Pakku emit a small groan due to the mention of his nickname that Sokka had so gloriously bestowed upon him. She knew her grandmother could take care of herself, she knew that Pakku would take care of her…or vice versa… She knew her father would also be shooing her out for a vacation as well…
Perhaps some time away from her duties would do her some good.
The four then made their way padding through the thick snow until they reached the clearing just a few feet away from the residential area. They could see Appa clearly flying high in the air with children gripping onto his tail and feet whilst giggling dizzily with joy.
Not to mention a very frazzled Sokka dangling off one of Appa's toes practically screaming for dear life. His legs kicked wildly through the air-not wanting to fall into a snowy clump.
Aang wasted no time in running towards his animal friend with much enthusiasm.
"Sokka! I didn't know you enjoyed hanging out like that!" Aang called towards the Water Tribesman. Sokka then looked down-seeing Aang as just a blob of yellow and red from his clothes.
"I don't!" he screeched maniacally, attempting to climb up as the younger children around him just swayed with the sky bison's movements, their laugher and giggles contrasting with his terrified shrieks. Sokka then looked back at Appa with a death glare. "Appa! Put me down! Land!"
Katara laughed at how ridiculous her brother looked before Appa let out a rumbling groan, as if to answer Sokka. The sky bison then slowly and gently lowered himself until Sokka and the Water Tribe children had their feet on the snow-covered ground. The youngsters detached themselves away from Appa before running to the three Water Tribe locals as Sokka huffily clambered back onto Appa's saddle-followed by Aang who took the reins, all ready.
Katara turned to face her grandparents, who had their arms wound affectionately around each other. The Master Waterbender's oceanic eyes wide and wet as she threw her arms around the two elderly, embracing them lovingly.
Pakku couldn't help but roll his eyes slightly as he and Kanna hugged their granddaughter.
"Katara, it's only a couple of weeks. We'll be fine," he told the sixteen-year-old, gently patting her back. "You and Sokka should enjoy yourselves."
Katara pulled back and smiled at the couple, her arms still tightly wound around them. She then sniffed and pushed back a few strands of hair that had fallen into her face.
"Katara, come on! Zuko's still not that patient you know!" Sokka yelled from atop Appa, his hands cupped around his mouth. "You of all people should know that!"
His younger sister grimaced slightly before giving her grandparents one last hug. She then turned and ran towards the sky bison, propelling herself up onto the saddle by jetting a small stream of water from the snow underneath her feet. Sokka let out a yelp as she landed onto the saddle only mere inches away from crashing completely into him.
Aang grinned at the two siblings before waving towards Kanna and Pakku, who waved in return. The Avatar then gently whipped the reins once.
"Appa, yip yip!"
Appa then let out his loud, signature groan as he took off into the air.
Katara watched and waved as the sight of Kanna, Pakku and the Water Tribe children gradually became smaller and smaller as they went higher-until they became the size of ants. She could feel the wind whipping her loose ponytail free, allowing her thick brown waves to fly into her face and the cool breeze kiss her skin as they slowly left her home.
"So, who else is joining us?" Sokka asked his little sister, jolting Katara slightly from her focus on the white ground. She turned to face her brother, who gave her a questioning look as he stretched his arms out onto the edges of the saddle.
"I'm not sure if Zuko is bringing Mai," she began. "But I bet he's going to. She is his girlfriend after all… We know Suki and Ty Lee will be at Ember Island…" Katara then turned to Aang, who had his back facing the siblings. "But Aang, Zuko really can just go to Ember Island on his own… We don't need to get him."
Aang turned around to face Katara with an almost sad, pouty-lipped look on his face.
"Aw come on Katara," he half-whined playfully. "It'll be nice to see the Caldera after all these years. Granted, it's only been two years but things can change drastically you know? I mean, look at the Southern Water Tribe!"
Katara tilted her head to the side, her gaze following the motion before cracking a small smile and nodding.
"That's true… I'm also curious to see how our Almighty Fire Lord has influenced his country," she mused. She was about to continue until a maniacal, terrified Sokka-shriek stopped her. Her and Aang's heads immediately whipped over to look at Sokka, who was lying flat on his back tackling Momo. The two attempted to stifle their laughs but failed at the hilarious display.
"MOMO!" the Warrior gasped, his eyes wide and bloodshot as he gripped the lemur-bat with his hands, staring into the two wide, seemingly innocent green eyes. "DO. NOT. DO. THAT!"
Momo replied with a squeaky-purr before flailing its arms about, trying to wrench himself free.
"Momo buddy!" Aang exclaimed. Hearing his 'father-figure', Momo let out a soft screech and wriggled out of Sokka's grasp before flying over to perch on the monk's right shoulder. His ears lowered and the length of his tail whipping around wildly.
Katara chuckled at Sokka, who glared at her irritably, his face reddened greatly.
"Stop laughing! He totally caught me off guard! Let's see how you like it when some flying creature lands on your head!"
...
"Stop pacing around so much, Sparky! You're making me uncomfortable just listening to you!" Toph exclaimed, as she lounged on the smooth tiled floor in the new throne room of the Royal Fire Nation Palace with the soles of her feet planted firmly on the ground.
Since Zuko wasn't the power-hungry and fearful Fire Lord that Ozai was, he practically had the entire Palace renewed to a less…intimidating setting that reflected the new peaceful era. Instead of a throne that sat within walls of fire inside a pitch dark room and intimidating pillars, tall fire torches lit up the place along with full-length windows that allowed the outside sun to stream in; bringing the reds and golds of the room to life. His Dragon throne was massive but fitting, sitting on a slightly raised platform. A large, two-seater chair with soft silk padding that had long gold tassels hanging off the edges and vertices-all bore the Fire Nation's vibrant colours At the top of the chair was a solid gold five-tongued flame that resembled his crown-piece. It had been moulded into the chair as its own mark. The arms of the throne carved to resemble the head of a dragon similar to Ran and Shaw. Behind the throne was a growing wall of fire that was similar to the previous throne except this time the flames didn't cover the front.
The whole goal of it being a two seater throne was that the absent space would be specially reserved for the future Fire Lady. Zuko thought that if he were to wed-he wouldn't want his future wife to be below him in rank. He didn't want to hold the quality and custom of being a male chauvinist or a sexist. In the future, his wife and Fire Lady would be his equal. Just as how a woman and man could be-proven by people like Katara, Suki and even Azula who were all headstrong females or worthy leaders.
"You're uncomfortable!" Zuko nearly snapped, his current pacing halted-nearly tripping over his heavily layered Fire Lord robes as he glared sharply at the earthbender who just sandpapered her feet against the floor to get a better feel with her seismic sense. "I haven't seen everyone in two years, Toph! People can change. Even though you pretty much stayed the same…"
Toph grinned and flicked her shoulder-length hair playfully in a diva-like manner. Over the years she had abandoned her full bun and opted for a change-letting her dark hair loose in their razor-straight glory. But she still wore boyish outfits with rough fabric that still channelled her rebelliousness.
"Don't be such a spaz, your Highness," Toph teased, as Zuko resumed his pacing. She could feel the galloping of his nervous heartbeats and the violent frush-ing sounds of the fabric of his robes whipping about with each long-legged step and snapping sharp turn. "I'm sure everyone will be just as crazy as before."
Zuko knitted his brows together as the hands that had been interlocked behind his back clenched into tight fists until his knuckles turned white. He was starting to get quite dizzy from pacing back and forth from one end of the throne room to the other, occasionally hitting bashing his shoulders against the now blood red and gold-based pillars. Zuko bet that if he were to change clothes soon, he'd be facing some black-and-blue bruises on his shoulders.
But what if they had changed? What if it would be hard to…re-communicate as friends again? Sure, maybe it wouldn't be so hard with Katara-given that they'd kept in touch… But letters couldn't fully define what would be in front of him in probably mere hours or even minutes. Letters could easily hide someone just as well as a mask or a well-planned façade after all.
Before he could reply the earthbender, the large, elaborate doors swung open and one of Zuko's most trusted advisor Gu Wen came scurrying in, his usual mask of worry plastered on his thin face. The Fire Lord immediately halted his pacing, his eyes wide at what looked like a panicking man.
"Your Majesty!" he panted, lifting his long robes slightly as he ran towards a surprised and bewildered Zuko, with Toph raising an eyebrow at the rapid foot-stepped commotion. "Your Majesty! My Lord! Your Highness! Fire Lord Zuko!"
"What is it?" Zuko asked, hoping that it wasn't any bad or tragic news. Gu Wen then threw himself onto the floor, his knees against the smooth marble as he bowed almost in a dramatic manner, with his face down on the floor and his long arms spread out in front of him, nearly pawing over Zuko's hard-toed boots. Toph felt this and attempted to stifle a laugh, just in case Gu Wen brought in serious news. "Calm yourself down, Gu Wen. Breathe."
The frenzied advisor sucked in a deep breath, possibly vacuuming a film of dust or dirt that could've been on the floor before raising his head, revealing his wide, blood-shot eyes. Sweat poured from his pores like an overfilled pot probably from running. Zuko couldn't help but wonder how could such an odd, thin man could be such help in an office… Truth be told, Gu Wen was actually quite excellent and a wonderful perfectionist with wise words that competed his uncle Iroh. Not to mention that he was incredibly respectful. Perfect if he wasn't such a worry wart all the time even about the littlest things-rushing all over the place in a panic. The man panicked and worried about pretty much everything so Zuko couldn't really tell sometimes if the man brought bad news, good news or just indifferent news in general. Even when Gu Wen had announced a month ago that Zuko's uncle had come to stay with him the advisor looked as if his mother had been set on fire.
"Your Majesty!" Gu Wen finally choked out, his face reddening. "Some of the Imperial Firebenders says that the Avatar and his companions are nearing the Palace on the Avatar's sky bison! Should I have them wait by the harbour?"
Zuko felt his breath catch in his throat. They were here? Already? But-But-But…
"No!" he yelled, more out of surprise than out of anger. But it shook the poor advisor greatly nonetheless. "Let them come to the Palace. But make sure they are welcomed!"
Gu Wen stood up almost mechanically before bowing low several times, his topknot constantly sweeping the floor. "Yes, my Lord! Right away my Lord! But do you wish to wait here for their arrival or to proceed to the Gates?"
The usual formal Fire Lord immediately turned blue, and Toph doubled over in hysterical laughter as she felt his galloping heartbeats, figuratively making his entire body pulse to each beat. The Blind Bandit then made her way over to Zuko before waving a hand at a confused Gu Wen, who simply stared at her with questioning.
"Ah just bring 'em here!" she ordered as she stood next to the stone-still-supposed-almighty-all-powerful-Fire-Lord. "I think I better get Lord Sparky over here to calm down. You should too, Crazy Pants."
Gu Wen half-glared at the earthbender with disbelief, flabbergasted at her attitude before turning his attention to Zuko, who coughed and cleared his throat, using a hooked finger to loosen his collar that had somehow managed to clench around his throat in a chokehold.
"M-M-My Lord?"
Zuko coughed again before waving him off, the huge sleeves of his robes flapping in the air wildly as Toph guffawed.
"Y-Yes, bring them here. I…uh…need time to…prepare myself. Make sure they are comfortable. When it comes to Appa, the sky bison-I advise you to just listen to Avatar Aang," Zuko finally said, his voice growing stern, wanting his friends to be treated well in his Palace. "They are to be treated as my honorable guests, do you understand?"
Gu Wen nodded, his head bobbing up and down uncontrollably before taking one final bow.
"Yes, yourMajesty! RightawayyourMajesty!" he slurred everything into one sentence before racing towards the door again. Once he had closed the doors to the throne room, Zuko and Toph could hear him screaming at the guards and servants. "On your feet now! To the main gates! The Fire Lord's guests are arriving at any second now! To the gates! Quickly now! You and you! Come with me!"
Toph stifled a laugh as Zuko went back to his pacing, still attempting to loosen his collar that choked him.
They're here… his thoughts screamed at him. After two years… What will happen? Will things be the same? Will everything go smoothly? Spirits, help me.
"Jeez, Sparky, take a breather why don't ya?" Toph chuckled, feeling the Fire Lord pace back and forth once again. His heart rate going a thousand miles a second. "You're going to give yourself a heart attack! I thought you were all cool and stuff. What's with imitating Crazy Pants over there? I thought he was going to burst! What is up with that ball of everything?"
Zuko let out a sigh before slapping his forehead with his right palm, creating a red, hand-shaped mark on the pale skin there.
"Avatar Aang! Master Katara! Welcome to his Majesty's Palace!" Gu Wen greeted with a low bow as Appa landed in front of the Fire Nation Royal Palace's front gates with a grunt, the sky bison nearly scaring the advisor skinless. "My name is Gu Wen, one of Fire Lord Zuko's advisors! We welcome you to the Fire Nation!"
Aang and Katara were the first to get off with their bags, with Sokka sleepily sliding down Appa's tail since he had slept for most of the journey to the Fire Nation-making their trip quiet and uneventful.
Gu Wen had gathered a few guards of the Royal Procession and some servants to tend to and welcome Zuko's guests, given the orders to make them feel welcomed.
Katara and Aang both returned Gu Wen's bow respectfully.
"Nice to meet you, Gu Wen," Katara said, smiling at the little welcoming committee. "Where is Zuko anyway?"
"Ah, his Majesty is in the throne room with the most…interesting Lady Bei Fong. We have given orders to make you comfortable and take you to him," Gu Wen explained, gesturing to the large, fire-inspired front gates that could easily overwhelm anybody's physical size. "Shall we? The servants shall take your belongings and tend to your sky bison… Some of the Royal Procession and myself will personally take you to Fire Lord Zuko."
"Hey, wait!" Sokka exclaimed, coming into Gu Wen's view after getting off Appa's long, flat tail. "You didn't greet me! Avatar Aang… Master Katara… I was in the war too y'know!"
Gu Wen immediately paled, hoping that he didn't offend the Fire Lord's companion before bowing low-the top of his head once again sweeping the floor of invisible debris.
"I-I apologize!" he practically squeaked in panic, straightening up with wide eyes. "Of course! Welcome…err…uh… Master…Sokka?" The frazzled advisor wracked his brain for the Water Tribesman's title.
Sokka narrowed his eyes at Gu Wen, placing a hand on his hip while he held onto his bags with the other.
His sister rolled her eyes at him before a servant girl came up to her, silently offering to take her bags. But she moved them away, much to the servant's shock. The girl immediately turned a ghostly white, mentally hoping that she hadn't offended Katara or breached her privacy.
"Oh, there's no need for that," Katara waved her hand at the servant girl whom she estimated as a Fire Nation girl her age. "I can handle this myself."
"Please, Master Katara," Gu Wen insisted. "We were given clear orders to attend to you. We'll take your bags to the guestrooms that have been readied for all of you."
"Okay, thanks!" Sokka then dumped his bag into Gu Wen's arms before taking long strides over to the still closed gates that had two stoic, unmoving guards on each side, holding a tall, kill-capable spear that glinted dangerously in the sunlight. The Water Tribesman then impatiently stood in front of the closed gates while tapping his foot, waiting for Aang and Katara.
The servant girl next to Katara and another servant who approached Aang then once again silently offered to take their loads, this time with them relenting. Gu Wen handed Sokka's surprisingly heavy load to another servant before smiling politely at the guests, extending an arm towards the gates.
"What about Appa?" Aang questioned worriedly, looking back at his furry friend, with Momo perched on top of his large head. "We can't just leave him out here."
"Oh do not fret, Avatar Aang. The Royal stables can fit any animal of any size!" Gu Wen boasted proudly, motioning to the servants who weren't carrying any bags. "Your sky bison Appa will be in good hands! Treated like royalty!"
Satisfied, Aang petted both Appa and Momo on the head before circling around and rejoining the welcoming committee and his friends.
"See you soon, you two!"
...
Once inside, the servants that Gu Wen had assembled dispersed and disappeared into the hallways and corridors, heading towards the guest rooms that had been prepared for each of them. Gu Wen led the trio with members of the Royal Procession around them for safety. They walked through the familiar Palace as if in a march, mechanically walking towards the throne room. The trio had noticed there had been subtle changes and improvements that had been made to the Palace such as golden dragons painted on each dark red pillar, different fiery colours that painted the walls and roofs. But still the Palace kept its usual sense of grandeur and imperialism, representing its royalty and power.
"Gu Wen, is Zuko's uncle Iroh here?" Aang asked curiously, breaking the awkward, voiceless silence as they 'marched' their way to the throne room.
Gu Wen turned his head slightly until he could see Aang in a sideways glance, nodding calmly.
"Yes, he is. He had returned from Ba Sing Se a month ago because his tea shop is undergoing renovations."
Katara raised her eyebrows at that fact. Zuko hadn't told her about that in their letters. Iroh's 'Jasmine Dragon' must be doing quite well to be renovating so soon.
As the waterbender walked wedged between Aang and her brother, she couldn't suppress the nervous churning in the pit of her stomach that felt like an acidic tsunami. Katara attempted to continue holding her anxiety by fidgeting with a lock of her thick brown hair that fell loose around her shoulders. Her eyes were wide as they observed her surroundings, taking in the hot colours and warmer environment compared to the icy tundra she'd been in for the past two years. It felt strange to her-the heat of it increasing the warmth that was provided in her slightly thicker Water Tribe attire-even though in her place of residence that particular piece of clothing was more appropriate.
What if this vacation would turn out all awkward? What if the Zuko she'd been writing letters to was not who he really was off the parchment? What if one of her best friends had drastically changed in personality? The thoughts of it plagued Katara's mind as she yanked on her hair, wincing whenever the skin at the nape of her neck would sting.
Why am I so nervous anyway? Fire Lord or not… Change or no change… He's still just Zuko!" Katara mentally scolded herself through her neurotic thoughts.
He's still Zuko… Just Zuko… she chanted to herself silently, yanking on her hair harder with each chant.
Just Zuko… Right?...
Zuko and Toph impatiently waited, both sitting upon the Royal Throne. But as opposed to Zuko's posture-perfect position, Toph was sprawled on her back, her legs dangling off the right arm of the golden throne with her head leaning against Zuko's right arm. Zuko had his head leaned to the left on his hand, feeling antsy awaiting his friends arrival.
"Jeez, what's taking so long?" Toph whined, swinging her legs back and forth out of boredom. She then folded her arms behind her head as if Zuko was her own couch.
Zuko was about to open his mouth to answer until the heavy doors to the throne room swung open majestically to reply instead, prompting Zuko and Toph to eject out of their seats. Light from the outside streamed into the throne room, lighting it up further, and the sudden blast of intense Fire Nation sunlight nearly blinded Zuko as he saw a small bunch of shadowed silhouettes move through the pale-yellow-white light.
"My Lord, may I present Avatar Aang and his companions, the Lady as well as Master Katara and Master Sokka of the Southern Water Tribe!" Gu Wen declared as he marched into the room with some of the Imperial Firebenders. Zuko could vaguely see his old friends walking behind Gu Wen. But the helmet-faced guards blocked his peripheral view, much to his annoyance and impatience.
Zuko straightened up as if the ceiling had a tight cord pulling at his spine as they approached closer until they were only a number of feet away from him. Zuko averted his eyes slightly as they all got down on their knees in a bow, uncomfortable with the formality.
"Please, rise. There's no need for such formality. They're my friends, after all," Zuko said simply, attempting to look at them all. It felt strange…having to look down on them like that when to him they all stood as equals. He only returned his gaze to them when they arose from the floor.
"I kind of like it actually," Toph said cheerily, sandpapering her feet against the floor, feeling the familiar vibrations. "Do bow some more before the greatest earthbender in the world!"
Zuko rolled his eyes and he heard the familiar voices of his friends when they all groaned exasperatedly in sync at the earthbender's words.
Gu Wen smiled politely at Toph's 'half-joke' before stepping aside, along with the guards, allowing Zuko to have full view of the threesome in front of him.
The Fire Lord's eyes widened at the sight before him. How two years could change so much…
"Welcome," he greeted, before gesturing for Gu Wen and his Imperial Firebenders to leave. They all bowed formally before him before marching away with the exception of his advisor, who simply skittered away in his usual panicky craze.
Zuko saw Aang first, his brightly colored typical Air Nomad garb screaming yellows and oranges at his eyes. If it weren't for his bright blue airbending tattoos, he would've thought that the Avatar could blend in almost seamlessly with the furniture…
"Good to see you, Zuko!" Aang chirped cheerily, a wide grin stretching from one ear to the other, his face and wide gray eyes still holding a bit of his child-like demeanour But the airbender did fill out a little physically, and had grown too. "You look great! Too formal though-since we weren't expecting some extravagant event…"
Zuko opened his mouth to reply until Sokka cut him off.
"Fire Lord Zuko-It has been awhile! How's the reformed Lord Jerk-bender?" Sokka exclaimed. He then spread his arms out as if expecting a hug. "He-ey buddy!"
Zuko smirked and hugged the joker briefly. In his view, Sokka definitely did mature physically. His hair still remained the thick medium length mane of brown, tied up in his typical ponytail. Or Warrior's Wolf-Tail as he so preferred to call it. Instead of the joking blue eyes from two years ago, Sokka had finally adopted a more…serious outlook, but apparently still kept up with his upbeat personality that never failed to amuse or irritate. The Water Tribesman still kept his usual blue and white tunic with pants-but the design had been upped a couple of levels with the few Water Tribe emblems on the fabric.
"Good to see you too, Sokka," Zuko said, a small smile marking his face.
Sokka folded his arms and shook his head with a smirk playing on his lips, his gaze down to his feet. Once he raised his head he gestured to Zuko with his right hand.
"Look at you! All prim and proper!" he chuckled. "I'm still not believing it you know."
"Believe it, Snoozles!" Toph exclaimed, walking in front of the Fire Lord before landing an affectionate punch on Sokka's arm, causing him to wince in pain. "How's my favourite jokester?"
"In pain," Sokka seethed, glaring at the grinning Toph. But being blind, she could easily brush off any daggers that his eyes shot at her.
"Then you ought to get Sugar Queen over there to take a look at whatever's bugging you," the Blind Bandit shot back, pointing at Katara who had been attempting to stifle her chuckles.
Zuko then turned to face the only girl wedged in between the two guys, who had been surprisingly quiet and demure all this time. When gold met a luminous blue, Zuko clamped his jaw as hard as he could, attempting to not let his jaw drop in pure shock.
Oh how two years could change a person…
The sixteen-year-old Master Waterbender apparently had abandoned her hair loopies, her voluminous, dark-chocolate waves framing her slimmer, golden face as it cascaded around her shoulders to her waist. A few ribbon and beads bound tendrils decorated her mane delicately. Zuko could see that her growing up really shaped her into a gorgeous young woman. Her high cheekbones had become more prominent, giving her a slightly sharper look. Instead of the rough, casual clothes that she used to wore so often two years ago, Katara looked absolutely stunning in a movement-allowing dress that hugged her becoming curves. It resembled her old dress-tunic or a Water Tribe version of the dress she wore when she was in the Jasmine Dragon after the 100 Year War with white-fur-lined trimmings. But it had lengthened to her ankles and had more elaborate wave-like embroidery on the light blue of the dress. Long, bell-sleeves only left her slim fingers visible and her dark purple securing sash accentuated her tiny waist. On the right side of her dress was a long, thigh-high slit, revealing the delicately embroidered amethyst harem pants that she'd paired with simple, black sandals. A big, light blue medallion with the Water Tribe emblem carved on it hung from her neck in a long, dark blue cord, sitting in the middle of her chest.
The Waterbender had really grown into her looks-giving both a simple yet siren-esque feel to it.
The slightly concerned look in Katara's eyes and the familiar sound of her voice immediately managed to snap Zuko back to reality.
"Zuko? Is…everything alright?" Katara asked, her small and full rose-tinted lips curling into a soft and nervous smile. "You look…distracted…"
Zuko cleared his throat and felt blood gradually making its way to his face. He hid his awkwardness with an odd smile as he tugged at his collar. Something he was slowly getting used to.
"I-I'm fine," he managed to cough out as normally as he could, ignoring Toph's light snickering. "It's great to see you. All of you. You look…great."
Katara blushed fiercely at the compliment before breaking out into a wider smile. She then unexpectedly threw her arms around the Fire Lord's neck, much to his surprise. But from his view, both Sokka and Aang held calm expressions-as if it was a normal thing for Katara to do. Leap into choking hugs.
But as the sweet scent of apples and the spray of water hit him, Zuko couldn't help but melt into Katara's hug, enjoying the cool-warmth of the embrace before firmly wrapping his arms around her waist. The lithe form of the girl seemed to fit nicely in his space, to the point where if Zuko were to just look down, he could bury his face in her silky waves and the white furry collar of her dress.
The material of her dress felt like the smoothest, softest satin against his hands. Or silk. One would think Zuko would be able to tell the difference… Living in royalty and all…
He heard Katara let out a small chuckle before pulling back, and he instantly loosened his grip on her, already missing the refreshing winter and rain scent on her. To him the aroma was foreign, since the Fire Nation had a constant heat wave most of the time-bearing hot, spicy scents. It was different, but a good kind of different-relishing in the cooler aromatics. Zuko then met Katara's bright doe-eyes, the azure colour framed by thick, dark, long, fluttery eyelashes, giving more feminism to her outlook. He could only admit such a fact to himself in secret. For the sake of his…formal dignity.
Katara was simply beautiful.
"It's good to see you, Zuko," she said, causing a strange warmth to rise in his chest. The waterbender then smirked playfully at him before raising an eyebrow at him. "And you don't look too shabby yourself. Could do with a whole less layers though…" Katara gestured to his multi-layered robes. "Have you felt your Nation's normal weather?"
Everyone chuckled at her comment, and as if in sync, everyone-including Toph, who was blind began agreeing that Zuko wore way too many layers in the Fire Nation's sweltering weather. Royalty or not.
Zuko shrugged as Katara made her way back to the guys she'd arrived with, her brother slinging an arm around her waist. He then tugged at his collar again.
"I thought one should be…proper when there're guests," Zuko muttered.
"Yeah but we're your pals, Sparky!" Toph exclaimed, landing an affectionate punch on Zuko's arm. The hit supposedly to give him some sort of discomfort, but the thick robes he sported provided enough cushioning to weaken the punch.
"Anyway, I'm sure you're all tired from your trip," Zuko continued, not wanting to waste time gawking at each other. "Why not you all head to your guest rooms and freshen up while I…uh…change-and we'll have dinner soon. Perhaps I can even request for sea prunes for you." The Fire Lord then gestured to Katara and Sokka, while Aang made a face at the very mention of sea prunes.
"That would be lovely, Zuko," Katara said, liking the sound of having her tribe's food despite the fact of it being prepared by a foreigner. "We hope it won't be too much of trouble for you. Being Fire Lord and all."
Zuko waved her off as if it were no big deal. "It's no trouble at all. Anything for my friends."
"That's great!" Sokka exclaimed. "I'd like to scour around the area, see what's new, what's hot… When are we leaving for Ember Island again?"
"First thing tomorrow morning," Aang reminded the warrior. With gleaming eyes, Sokka immediately took off for the door-Spirits only knowing what was on the young man's mind.
Katara sighed as she watched her brother throw the doors wide open, yelling at the top of his lungs.
"Hey Advisor Man! Where'd you put my stuff?"
Spirits preserve Gu Wen… Zuko thought jokingly to himself as he heard the familiar voice of his advisor tending to Sokka with his usual panicky tone.
"Come on, Katara," Aang grabbed Katara's left hand, tugging at her slightly. "Let's explore the place! I'd like to see how things have changed! If they have changed, that is…" He then turned to face Zuko. "That would be alright, right Zuko?"
The Fire Lord nodded but laid a hand on the waterbender's shoulder, prompting her to look at him with questioning.
"But do you think I could borrow Katara for awhile? There's someone who has been itching to see her ever since the knowing of your arrival," Zuko asked.
Aang shrugged and nodded, before squeezing Katara's hand affectionately. He then gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before making his way out of the throne room. Toph then eagerly took off after the Avatar.
"HEY TWINKLE TOES WAIT UP! I WANT TO SHOW YOU SOMETHING! NO WAY I'M BEING STUCK IN HERE FOR LONGER!" she yelled, zooming after Aang without bothering to even say a 'see you later' to Zuko and Katara.
Zuko held his arm out for Katara with a smirk, and the waterbender returned it as she took his arm. The Fire Lord then led her out of the throne room through another door to the left that led him straight to other rooms and halls.
"So who's this person who's itching to see me?" Katara asked, enchanted by the delicate paintings of fire and dragons that decorated the ceiling of the long hallways. "Oh and where's Mai? I thought you would be having her by the arm when we came. Is she still with her parents?"
Zuko swallowed hard before shaking his head. "No… She's here. Not in the Palace though… I hope it's okay if she tags along tomorrow…"
Katara broke out into a wide smile and lightly smacked Zuko's arm, prompting him to stare at her with surprise.
"Of course it's okay!" she exclaimed, her eyes glimmering. "She's your girlfriend, isn't she? I expected her to come anyway… The more the merrier, right?"
Zuko raised an eyebrow skeptically at the waterbender before leading her into an abrupt left turn, revealing a large door with the Fire Nation emblem on it-indicating that it was no ordinary guest room.
"There are quite a few rooms like this," Zuko explained, gesturing to the rather ornate door. "Specially for relatives or important ambassadors and nobles et cetera…"
Katara nodded before the Fire Lord gently knocked on the door thrice. He gave her an assuring smile when she shot him a questioning and worried look, curious to know who was on the other side of the door.
"Come in."
Katara's eyes widened significantly at the familiar voice that sounded from inside, and Zuko gently patted her hand that was on his arm and pushed open the doors. Katara narrowed her eyes slightly as bright, near-white rays of sunlight streamed into her eyes through a full length window.
Once her vision had cleared, she took in the beautifully decorated, ornate room that held all the qualities the Fire Nation usually held onto. Imperialism. Strength. Power. Heat. Fire. The blue eyes then settled to the left side of the room, where there was a large four-poster bed with large, gold columns as well as fire and dragon inspired needle-points on the sheets and pillows. At the foot of the bed was a medium-sized round table with four red-cushioned chairs surrounding it. Sitting on one of the chairs was whom she assumed the person Zuko had described to have 'been itching to see her.'
"Zuko! KATARA! How have you been? I hope your journey here was pleasant, no?"
Guess who? *grins
By the way, thousands of apologies for such a late update with both my Zutara fanfics! I've been swamped with crap lately and I have my finals coming up!(Even though I hardly care for them) So I have to buck up on my studies. October will definitely be a slow update month for me but do bear with me and be patient! I'm not dead yet-just really, really busy... INEXCUSABLE, I know.
P.S: Gu Wen is Mandarin Chinese for 'advisor' and I love his frazzled-craziness. There's just too many serious-stone-faced all over the place! What do you think? Love? Hate? Mai-attitude? Pish!
Forgive me if the descriptions are shitty but I really am trying to better that. Once I describe something, I really go all out. (Like Katara's dress. My good-ness the vision I had!) But I always forget people might get bored from that. So, yeah-bear with me.
Hopefully you'll enjoy this chapter... We'll see the others(Suki... Ty Lee...)very very soon! Further explanations will be revealed in later chapters. (duh...)
For followers of YLW, I'm editing it RIGHT NOW so be patient, yeah? Again, so sorry for my lateness-normal time will resume on November or late October.
Bloody hell this A/N is long. Oh well, I'll save the rest of my A/N on YLW. Till Chapter 4~
-Jenna