A/N: Thanks for reading!
Expansion
Chapter Twenty: That Went Better than I Thought it Would
Coronation Plaza was ablaze with light and filled with laughter and dancing couples. They moved, some gracefully and some clumsily, beneath the golden lanterns, trying to keep time with the lively music. Maho, wearing a lovely, form fitting burgundy gown, danced with Norio. They had arrived back in Capitol City late the day before, just in time for the celebration spontaneously thrown by Mai and Zuko.
The brash man openly admired his partner's form, eyes roaming her body hungrily. A few days ago, Maho would have blushed, but she was accustomed to Norio's 'openness' now. It wasn't malicious or dirty. He simply liked women, and liked Maho more than most.
"I'm glad I lived and if I die tonight, I'd consider myself happy," Norio stated with a smirk.
"Oh, please," Maho retorted. "There are thousands of women you haven't met yet."
"Maybe I don't care. Maybe I've met the perfect one."
Maho was taken aback by the vulnerability in Norio's voice. In some ways, he was very much like Toph, all toughness and bravado and smart remarks, while not often showing or expressing softer emotions.
"I, I," she stammered, "I'm far from perfect."
"Maybe so, but you're pretty great."
"You're something else," the young soldier remarked.
From up on the dais, Zuko and Mai observed. Though her grace was undiminished, Mai felt like a lumbering bear and chose to watch rather than participate. Besides, watching people was fun in itself. Ursa and Hideo danced nearby, while Tomiko whirled Miyako around and Toph stumbled about with a laughing and red faced Ryuhito.
The three 'couples' stopped for a cold drink; dancing was thirsty work. A table was set up on the dais with an abundance of food and a variety of beverages. Their new head cook, Hoshi's and Akira's former employee, was on hand with several helpers to serve the royal family and their friends.
The celebration had started at midday. Entertainers of all kinds, music and good food were all supplied by the palace. A huge crowd, seemingly most of the city, had turned out. It was for the nation, which, though most citizens were unaware of the fact, had evaded a return to darkness. It was for all the soldiers and guards and friends who had so heroically helped both Zuko and Mai. And it was for Tomiko.
Mai and Zuko wanted to acknowledge his part in discovering and making unusable the blasting jelly that Oono had fully intended to use. The boy's ego had taken a beating over the last few weeks, both at the school and from his parents. Zuko knew exactly what that felt like and would not tolerate the same suffering for his brother-in-law.
So, Zuko had made a speech and spoke of the boy's bravery along with that of Maho, the fallen Nomura, Piandao, Toph, Norio and the many guards and soldiers. The crowd erupted into cheers and Tomiko, who stood on the dais with his family and Toph, blushed. He enjoyed the praise but was by nature a relatively modest boy.
Fireworks would be the culmination of the evening and everyone eagerly looked forward to them.
"Okay?" Zuko asked his wife as Miyako crawled onto his lap and wrapped tiny arms around his neck.
"I'm good; just don't expect me to dance."
"I dance with you, Daddy, come on," Miyako shouted happily.
"Alright, alright, princess, we'll dance. It's nice, isn't it, to see people enjoying themselves."
Mai nodded as she spotted Piandao in the crowd talking with an attractive woman. Surprisingly enough, Mai's Uncle Chung was mingling with the people too, sampling different foods and chatting with various women.
"That's something I never thought I would see," she stated wryly.
"What?" Zuko asked as he held Miyako and twirled around a bit awkwardly.
"Look at my uncle," she replied. "He's actually talking to people."
Zuko stopped and peered into the crowd.
"Daddy, don't stop," his daughter whined.
"Over by the huge table," Mai said and pointed.
"Oh, yeah, I see him. I'm glad he's mixing in," Zuko stated.
"What's with you two anyway? It's like all of a sudden you're getting along much better," Mai asked curiously.
"I think we just understand each other a little more than we did before," Zuko replied and then flopped back down in his seat.
Miyako slid off his lap and went to join her brother again.
"That dance was very graceful," Mai said sarcastically and then laughed.
Zuko scowled. "I was never very good at it," he reminded his wife.
Maho and Norio made their way through the line of guards surrounding the dais and climbed up the stairs to join the more intimate party.
They bowed formally to Mai and Zuko.
"I hope you don't mind us joining you up here, my lord," Maho said deferentially.
"Never mind that lord crap, just call him 'Grumpy,'" Toph cackled and gave Zuko a hearty slap on the back.
The Fire Lord mumbled something about getting no respect and turned pleading eyes to his wife.
"Don't look at me," Mai said with a shake of her head.
"Maho," Tomiko cried from across the dais.
He ran over and wrapped his arms around her, burying his face in her stomach.
"Hey, kiddo," Maho said softly and stroked his back. "How are you?"
He snuffled an okay into her dress and hung on even tighter. Maho had heard the news regarding Hoshi and Akira. She was glad that such despicable people were gone from the boy's life but still, he had lost his parents; and that had to hurt, a lot.
"Did you change into a dress?" Toph asked mischievously, breaking the quiet.
"Uh, yes, I did," Maho replied.
"You look really pretty," Tomiko said.
"Eh, she's too old for you, little boy," Norio stepped in.
"Are you afraid of a little competition?" Toph joked with the man.
"She wore the dress for me," Norio explained.
"Ooooh," Toph said and then whistled. "I hope this romance doesn't interfere with your work. You're helping me with the new bunch next week."
"There is no romance," Maho insisted. "I wore the dress because I agreed to if both Norio and I survived the battle. I didn't wear it for any other reason."
"I hope to change all that," Norio leaned in and whispered almost conspiratorially to the Fire Lord.
Maho gave the man a swat.
"Show some dignity," she spat. "The Fire Lord doesn't care about your love life."
"Come on now, Maho, let's go get us something to drink, preferably something a little harder than spiced tea."
He grabbed hold of her hand and pulled her along, off the dais and out into the crowd again. Maho had time to shrug and wave a quick goodbye before she disappeared in the throng.
"Okay then," Mai stated. "That was an odd little exchange."
"I think Maho likes Norio, don't you?" Tomiko asked his sister.
"Uh, not my area of expertise, but I think she might."
Toph chimed in with her assent, mentioning the quickening of Maho's pulse the closer she was to the man.
The cool winter evening wore on and when it was completely dark out and the revelers were winding down, the fireworks lit up the sky. The three children screamed over and over with delight at the many colours and loud noise. The crowd below cried out its appreciation too. Zuko looked around at his family and friends, happy in their happiness, glad he could enjoy this festive day with them. He knew that the weeks ahead would be tough, but at the end of the busy time ahead, a new child awaited him. He couldn't wait.
Two Weeks Later
The palace was quieter now that Piandao and his men along with Warden Chung and Hideo had all gone home. Hideo still spent a lot of time with Ursa, but he was busy with teaching and maintaining his own house too. Zuko's mother spent the occasional night with Hideo and Zuko, despite liking the man very much and accepting him fully, still worried.
And he had much more than that to worry about. The trial of Oono and Akagi was already well underway. Zuko made the decision to hold it at a meeting hall in the university rather than at the palace itself. Every day, Oono and Akagi were marched into the caldera, through Capitol City and to the one seat of higher learning. It was too much to attend all day every day, but Zuko did put in the occasional appearance and had already given his testimony. Piandao and his men gave their statements before they left the city as well.
Justice Minister Nakada had found three citizens, as per Zuko's request, and they along with two other learned men, sifted through the evidence, asked questions of the two traitors and discussed their findings. It was their job also to question the many witnesses ranging from the Fire Lord himself to teachers to Mai to Tomiko.
Zuko invited representatives from the other nations to attend portions of the trial. He wanted to ensure the rest of the world, first that he would not tolerate treason or a return to the old Fire Nation ways, and second that the trial was as fair as possible, with everyone getting an opportunity to speak their piece. King Kuei's own Minister of Justice was in Capitol City now along with an assistant to Chief Arnook.
Aang planned on coming too. Zuko usually looked forward to the avatar's visits, but somehow he knew that this particular one would be a little strained. The newlywed's letter had hinted at non violent resolutions and jail time as a suitable punishment for traitors. If the sentence for Oono and Akagi was more severe than that, Zuko was in for a lecture; a calm, polite one, but a lecture nevertheless.
And Sacred Flame Academy was now completely empty. Maho and Norio along with a small contingent of Zuko's army had accompanied the remainder of Oono's collaborators back to the Fire Nation capitol two weeks earlier. They were placed in prison alongside Oono and Akagi to await their trial and judgment.
As if that wasn't enough, Azula was now a greater worry. Doctor Tochihara had explained in a lengthy letter how his sister had overcome the chi dampening effects of the special brew she drank every day, and called up her fire while battling Oono's other hired assassin. Azula's continued assertion that she would kill Zuko if given the opportunity was also worrisome. Her mind and her abilities were both healthy again. Perhaps healthy was the wrong word; back to normal for her was more appropriate. Was an asylum really the place for her now? Was the staff there equipped to handle her? Or should she be moved to prison? Zuko wasn't certain he felt comfortable having her back in Capitol City. Then again, he could keep a better eye on her if she returned. Needless to say, Zuko was preoccupied and his mind was a bit of a muddle. And ahead of all the politics was his concern for his expanding family. They came first, usually.
"It's time for a break," Ursa said firmly as she glided into her son's office. "Those are Mai's orders."
"I just need to finish reading this one last document," Zuko replied as he rubbed at his tired eyes.
"No," Ursa said. "We're all having lunch outside. It's a lovely day. Have you even noticed?"
Zuko glanced toward the window and took note of the cheery sunshine and clear sky. It did look inviting and he was sick of being inside. He pushed back from the beautifully carved wooden desk and heaved a sigh.
"I'll admit that a little time in the fresh air sounds great," he conceded.
"Good; let's go," Ursa said.
She took his arm and they walked through a series of hallways and then out into the garden. Mai, Tomiko and the twins already sat on a large blanket that was spread beneath the old apple tree near the fountain.
"Glad you could spare us some time," Mai stated dryly and patted a spot beside her.
Zuko sat, gave Mai a kiss and smiled at the children.
"I'm sorry if I've been a little busy the last few days," he said. "But there's so much going on."
"We understand, Zuko. Here's your plate," she replied and handed him his food.
"Not quite as good as Rezu's, is it?" he remarked and everyone nodded their agreement.
"Daddy, we plant something for her," Miyako informed her father.
"Oh?" Zuko asked.
"We've been busy too," Mai explained. "It was Tom's idea actually and your mom got a really beautiful bush from the university. We planted it near the pond."
"Thank you, Tomiko, for coming up with a good way to memorialize Rezu. I'd like to see it when we're done eating."
Tom beamed with pleasure at the compliment. The nine year old had enjoyed a quiet and pleasant two weeks but seemed a bit fragile to Mai and Zuko. He was starting school at the beginning of the next week and the thought scared him more than a bit. It was a familiar school and he knew the children but a lot had changed for Tomiko himself. He didn't look forward to kids asking him about his banished parents. But he didn't want tutors either; he wanted friends his own age, ones he could visit and bring back to the palace too.
His upcoming testimony at the trial also overshadowed his days and loomed like a terrifying monster. Akagi was the last person he ever wanted to see again. Tomiko, however, insisted on doing his part to bring the traitors to justice no matter how upset the thought made him.
He had worries and sorrows but Tomiko also had loving people surrounding him, all willing to support him through any difficulties. The palace was definitely home, in every sense of the word. And Maho was a big part of his life now too. He was excited about that and looked forward to all of her visits. He had formed an extremely close attachment to the young soldier during their time on Tokoma Island
In the days since Hoshi and Akira left, Tomiko had not mentioned them once. It was like they had never existed. The portrait of Mai, Zuko, Ursa and the twins was hung directly over the desk in his room and he looked at it every night before he went to sleep. He was happy, really happy, for the first time in a long time.
"Tom, what are you thinking about?" Ursa probed gently. "Your eyes looked so distant."
The boy shrugged and gave Zuko's mother a sheepish smile. Some thoughts he wanted to keep to himself, at least for the time being.
When everyone finally finished eating, they walked over to the pond. It was in the area surrounding the water that Ursa kept her ever growing garden. The twins ran ahead excitedly and came to a skidding stop in front of the recently planted bush. The group stood somberly looking down at the red leafed plant and remembered Rezu. Miyako and Ryuhito couldn't stand still for too long and began to fidget.
"It's okay," Zuko bent down and whispered to them. "You can move."
The pair flitted about the garden, picking up the odd pretty stone or leaf and then returning to place them underneath the shrub. Tomiko decided to help and looked for his own interesting things. He found a feather and placed it respectfully in the soil, then came back with a flower. Zuko got into the act and picked up a larger stone, whitish grey in color and placed it near the bush.
"How's that?" he asked.
"Good, Daddy," Ryuhito replied.
Zuko knelt down beside the twins and wrapped and arm around each. He beckoned Tom to join them.
"I love you, all of you," he whispered. "I've got to get back to work because I'm extra busy right now, but I promise to make time for you."
"Will you have dinner with us tonight?" Tomiko asked hopefully.
"I can manage that," Zuko replied with a smile.
After the children were in bed and Ursa had slipped away to see Hideo, Mai and Zuko relaxed before going to sleep themselves.
"You look really tired," Mai observed as she ran a hand through his hair.
"I am," the Fire Lord replied simply.
"One word; delegate," Mai drawled.
"I can't have someone else attend the trial for me and I can't have someone else choose a new Councilman to replace your father. I've got two important dignitaries in the city, Aang's coming any minute now and I'm worried about Tomiko and you're more than seven months pregnant. Oh, and Azula's back to her scary old self."
"Do you have some idea of who you want to replace my father?"
"No, well, I have it narrowed down."
"Make a list and I'll go through it tomorrow. I'll spend some time in the office with you. Your mom wants to take the kids into the city anyway."
"She does?" Zuko asked.
"Weren't you listening at dinner?" Mai asked with a smirk.
"I guess not," he replied and rubbed the back of his neck. "I want guards, lots of them. I'll never feel completely at ease again, Mai."
"It's all taken care of."
"Can you talk with Aang too?" Zuko asked hopefully.
"Actually, I think we should both talk with Aang," Mai suggested. "And invite the dignitaries for dinner, if you want. Just give me notice."
"But you hate those dinners," Zuko exclaimed.
"I do hate them, but for you, I'll do it."
"What do you think I should do with Azula?" he asked
Mai stiffened slightly.
"I'm not exactly neutral when it comes to her," she replied honestly.
"I want your opinion anyway," Zuko insisted.
"I don't want her anywhere near me or my family," Mai stated icily.
"So asylum it is then," Zuko quipped but Mai didn't laugh or smile.
"Not necessarily; I just don't want her in the capitol. I don't know if the asylum can hold her."
"She's on an island, Mai, with no airships and no boats."
"Yes, I know, but a supply ship arrives; if she gets by her guards, who will stop her from taking over the ship? The other patients can't do anything. Tochihara would be helpless."
"So I'll triple the guard that's on her now."
"Yes, and maybe she needs to be moved into the basement, in an isolated room, surrounded by stone. Look, I just don't want her to ever get out. Do what it takes, Zuko."
The Fire Lord nodded his assent.
"I might have to take a trip out to the asylum. I can make a better decision if the place is clear in my mind."
"Oh, when?" Mai asked.
"I don't know, Mai. I can't leave right now. Maybe in a few days; definitely before the baby comes."
"Okay, will you see Azula?"
"Probably but I don't want to talk anymore about her. How's the baby doing?" he asked and rubbed a hand gently over her red silk covered abdomen.
"She's good," Mai answered. "The physician says that everything's normal and as it should be."
"You still insist that it's a girl," Zuko chuckled.
"Yep, I'm pretty sure and I have no idea why."
"Whenever you mention a baby girl, Miyako gets this look on her face," Zuko sighed. "I think she's hoping for a boy."
"Yeah, I've noticed. She'll probably be jealous. She likes being our only little girl, especially yours. I guess she worries that a new girl will replace her."
"There's something to look forward to," the Fire Lord said dryly. "We'll have lots of drama."
"I'm more worried about Tom and school next week. I think he's terrified but won't say so."
"Yes, but he wants friends his own age too. I want that for him. I never had that opportunity and I was so lonely. If it wasn't for you, Mai, I would have fallen apart."
"He already knows the children there and he's a good kid. Friends should be no problem. It's just that some may treat him differently or torment him because of them."
"They're paying, Mai. Trust me. I got a report about them today."
"Really; do tell," Mai insisted eagerly.
"There's not much to tell. They've made it as far as Gifu and have been eating scraps thrown out by restaurants and tea houses. Most people are giving them a wide berth, apparently. But some yell insults at them and a few more have thrown things at your parents."
"Good!" Mai exclaimed with a ferocity that surprised both her and Zuko.
"They're gone, out of your life forever, Mai. You can forget about them," the Fire Lord said softly and reached for Mai's hand.
"Not as easy as it sounds; you should know."
"True," Zuko agreed. "I guess we never truly forget."
"On that depressing note, I'll go to sleep," Mai said.
She gave her husband a kiss and turned over. Zuko extinguished the lights and snuggled into Mai's back, putting an arm around her. His mind kept racing, thinking about the weeks to come.
Aang arrived early, swooping in on Appa late afternoon of the next day. A servant rushed to inform Mai of his presence and she along with the three children went out to greet the Avatar. The young man, clad in yellow and orange traveling clothes, was rubbing the air bison's nose and congratulating it on another great flight.
"Aang," Mai called in an even voice as they got close enough for speaking.
The kids left her side and rushed towards the huge, friendly animal, patting its soft fur and cooing like a mother would to her infant.
"Hello, Mai," he replied brightly. "I hope it's okay that I'm a day early. The winds were in our favor."
"Not a problem," she stated. "Your room is ready and so is Appa's stall."
"So, where's Zuko?" he asked looking around the courtyard.
"He's at the university. That's where the trial is."
"Oh," Aang stated and looked downcast for a moment.
"He'll be back in a few hours. I'll get our new cook to fix something vegetarian for dinner, alright?"
"Sure, thanks, Mai," Aang replied, oblivious to Mai's emphasis. "The kids look great. How is Tomiko adjusting?"
"He's doing well. We're glad that he's here with us. Things could have gone a lot differently at that school. But Zuko and Toph and a lot of others took care of those traitors. Zuko really wants you to spend some time at the trial, Aang. He wants you to hear just what these men and women did and what they intended to do."
"I want to hear and I'll go with Zuko. But, it won't make a difference, Mai. I will never support the death penalty, no matter how terrible the actions of someone. If the sentence ends up being execution, I will go on record as opposing it."
"So you think I was wrong to kill the assassin who invaded my home, cold-bloodedly murdered a woman much beloved by my family, and planned to slaughter me and my children and Zuko's mother along with anyone else who got in his way."
"Was it necessary? Was it his life or yours?"
"In my mind, yes; as long as he was still alive, he could hurt my children. The guards were paralyzed. It was just me and the assassin, and I did what I needed to do. I suppose that I could have let him bleed out slowly. But he had enough energy left to reach for another knife. I made certain that he would never move again and I do not regret my choice."
Aang looked sad. His expressive grey eyes were moist with tears.
"I'm sorry you were in that position, Mai and I'm sorry that you made that decision. But I understand."
Mai's mouth tightened into a straight, hard line. She felt judged and that made her angry.
"You weren't there, Aang. You don't have children yet and you don't know what it feels like when their lives are threatened. I would do anything to protect them, anything, Aang."
"I'm not judging you, Mai. I know it sounds like I am, but I'm not. I just believe that if there's a way other than killing someone, we should take it. It's what I believe, what I was taught, and what I will teach to my children, when I do have them. I hope you can live with what you did."
"I can live just fine, thank you," Mai retorted coolly. "And I hope you're never put in the position I was put in. Your children might not survive."
"You're angry. I didn't come to upset you, Mai. I'm sorry."
"It's fine, Aang," Mai replied abruptly. "Someone will put Appa in the stall. You can come put your things in your room."
"I'll take care of Appa. And I can find my room. You guys go ahead."
"Alright; someone will let you know when dinner is ready."
Mai looked over at the kids and they came running. They could see from her expression that she meant business.
"Hi, Aang," Tomiko greeted the Avatar as he ran by.
The twins gave the young man cheerful waves and he grinned back.
"They sure are cute, Mai," Aang called.
"Yeah, and they're alive," the knife thrower said under her breath.
They trudged back into the palace, along hallways that led to the kitchen.
"Are you mad at Aang?" Tomiko asked worriedly.
"A little bit," Mai replied. "But I'll get over it. We're going to the kitchen to speak with Akane. Maybe she's got something interesting for a snack."
"I want snack, Mommy," Miyako piped up.
"Why am I not surprised?" her mother asked with a roll of her eyes.
Warmth and the wonderful smell of baking reached their noses as they turned the final corner. Akane was pink faced from the heat in the kitchen and the sleeves of her simple red tunic were pushed up. Fresh spice cookies sat cooling on the counter and she put another batch in the huge oven. When she saw the twins her eyes lit up. They had that affect on people, most people anyway.
"I bet you two little ones are looking for a snack," she said with a smile.
Miyako nodded and reached for a cookie.
"Wait, Miya," Mai said.
"I've got some special ones over here," Akane continued.
With a dramatic flourish she revealed a pretty plate with six cookies on it, each shaped like a little person and decorated with icing. Miyako's eyes grew almost as round as the plate as she stared at them.
"They pretty," she declared.
"There are two for each of you. It's good to see you, Tomiko. It's good to see you looking happy."
"Thanks, Akane," Tom replied shyly.
"I'll fix up a tray you can take into the sitting room. It's much too warm in here right now. My lady, would you like some tea and some cookies as well?"
"Yes, that sounds great. I need to speak with you about tonight's dinner. The Avatar is here already so you'll need to make him a vegetarian meal. It doesn't need to be fancy. It's not a formal dinner."
"Of course, my lady; I know just what to make. Now you go sit," Akane fussed. "I'll bring your tray."
"Thanks," Mai stated. "And thanks for making those cookies. Rezu was, this room was very special and it looks like you're going to keep it that way."
Akane blushed from the compliment, her round face getting even redder than it already was.
"I'll do my best, my lady. Now shoo! Pregnant women shouldn't be on their feet for long periods of time. That's what my best friend, Ai, always said. And she had seven children."
"Going now," Mai stated and left the room, kids in tow.
Zuko sat directly across from Oono and Akagi. He wore his formal robes and the tightness of his top knot was giving him a headache. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he listened as Nakada questioned a worker from Sacred Flame Academy. He didn't know much, just hearsay and gossip.
Some of the most damning words had come from Oono's assistant, Isa. Sycophant he may have been, but he was loyal no longer. The man spoke of his employer's viciousness in gory detail, recalled missives that were written, and orders given. He had a terrific memory and Zuko was grateful for that. Oono was a monster. There really was no denying that fact.
On either side of the Fire Lord sat the Earth Kingdom's Minister of Justice and second in command to Chief Arnook of the Northern Water Tribe. Zuko snuck looks at their faces but both remained calm and emotionless. He would have a quick word with them afterwards and invite them to the palace for dinner the following evening. Normally, visiting dignitaries stayed at the palace, but neither wanted to appear biased so had taken rooms in the city instead. Would they even come to dinner then, Zuko wondered.
Oono was staring at him and the intensity of the look made Zuko uncomfortable. He refused to reveal the effect of the stare and instead looked back, meeting the former headmaster's gaze head on. The one time advisor to Fire Lords smirked at the current one. He seemed perfectly content sitting there, as if his life was not on the line, as if he had succeeded. Briefly Zuko wondered if the man had other plans, some hidden cache of rabid supporters ready to spring into action now that their leader was captured.
'If he does, I'll find them,' Zuko vowed silently to himself. 'Never again will I let my guard down. Never again will I assume that everything is fine.'
Tomorrow Tomiko would sit at the little desk and answer questions. Both Zuko and Mai planned to be there. Everything would be behind the boy when he began school in a few days. That was a very good thing.
Nakada finished with the worker and called in another. The Fire Lord sat through two more boring testimonies before the procedure was halted for the day.
"It won't be long now, my lord," Nakada stated as he approached Zuko's chair. "I think by the end of next week we can make our decision."
"That's good news," the Fire Lord replied.
Turning to the dignitaries, he mentioned dinner which they both politely agreed to.
"My wife will be so pleased," Zuko stated while grinning inside.
Jee along with two other guards accompanied him back to the palace. As soon as he passed through the gates, he heard Appa's bellow and knew that Aang had arrived. He stopped at the stall to say hello to the furry bison. Appa gave his hand a friendly lick and lapped up the attention Zuko bestowed on him.
"I've gotta go see your buddy," the Fire Lord said as he left.
Appa grunted as though he understood and Zuko thought that he probably did.
The smaller, less formal dining room was all ready for dinner. Nine places were set at the table and a bouquet of flowers from the garden sat at its center. The group walked down the hall together and took their seats, waiting for servants to bring in the various dishes.
"Smells great," Aang declared cheerfully as the servants entered. He stole a quick glance at Mai.
Her hair was loose and lustrous, a section held back with the comb Zuko gave her for her sixteenth birthday. She wore a roomy tunic of burgundy over comfortable black pants. Her ring glittered on her finger and small gold studs decorated her ears. Zuko looked at her appreciatively as the light from the candles gave her a golden sort of glow.
He had changed into casual robes as well and his shaggy dark hair hung in his tired eyes. The twins wore similar tunics of bright red over more subdued pants while Tomiko wore brown and red. Across the table, Ursa and Hideo talked quietly with each other, holding hands where no one could see.
A servant placed a hearty lentil soup in front of the Avatar along with a dish of rice mixed with lychee nuts and dried fruit. Everyone else had a spicy seafood stew with plain rice on the side.
"This food is great," Aang said and then went back to eating.
"Where's Momo?" Tomiko asked.
"Oh, he stayed with Katara."
"And where is she?" Mai asked.
"Yeah, where is ole Sugar Queen," Toph asked with a grin.
"Um she's with Sokka and Suki on Kyoshi Island. She wanted to see baby Jian again."
"How are you enjoying married life?" Ursa asked.
"Katara's the greatest," the Avatar replied dreamily and Ursa laughed.
"How's baby?" Miyako chimed in. "He cute."
"He is cute and looks just like Suki. Sokka dotes on him and drives Suki crazy."
More silence and more eating followed.
"So Aang, will you be ready to go early tomorrow morning?" Zuko asked, not wanting to avoid the topic any longer. "Testimony starts just after breakfast and tomorrow Tomiko's up. Mai and I are both going."
"I'll be ready," the young man answered. "Are you nervous, Tomiko?"
Tom nodded and his face clouded over momentarily. "I don't want to see Akagi again. He scares me."
"He can't hurt you now and we want to make sure he never hurts anyone again," Zuko said.
Aang looked pointedly at the Fire Lord and frowned. He didn't want to start a discussion at the dinner table, not with the children.
"Zuko, would you go for a walk with me after dinner?" the Avatar finally asked. "We haven't talked in a long time."
"Alright," Zuko agreed.
The remainder of the dinner was spent chatting innocently about everyday things. Zuko decided to skip tea and dessert and head outside with Aang instead. Once out in the garden, away from prying eyes and ears, the Avatar began to speak.
"So it was really bad, wasn't it, at the school I mean?"
Zuko turned piercing gold eyes on Aang. "Yes, it was bad."
"Tomiko had a tough time."
"He did."
"And an assassin tried to kill Mai, killed a favorite servant of yours, while another one tried to kill Azula."
"Yes, Aang."
"You're angry about all of that, understandably. And you probably want to get revenge. Am I right?"
"The trial isn't about revenge, Aang. It's about justice. It's about Oono not being able to ever start something again. It's about my children being safe, my wife being safe. It's about keeping this nation on the right track. And it's about setting an example of Oono and Akagi. They need to be punished and punished severely. If the Justice Minister decides that execution is warranted, I won't argue with him. In fact, I'll suggest it myself if he doesn't."
"Why isn't spending the rest of their lives in jail enough, Zuko? They can't harm anyone from a prison cell."
"As long as they're alive, there is a chance that they can rally followers somehow or escape with the help of any supporters they have left. I don't want to take that chance. I know you hold all life sacred, Aang and I respect your views. But I think the lives of my children are more sacred than the lives of those bastards who were willing to blow up hundreds of innocents and who sent knife wielding killers after my family. Traitors do not deserve mercy."
"But look at your father. I spared his life and he's not bothering anyone. He's harmless."
"Oono planned on using Ozai, making him the new Fire Lord and having him produce heirs with his own daughter. I can't prove it yet, but I think my father knew something about the whole plot. Ozai's sentence was your decision. He was threatening the balance of the entire world and that's your domain. That's why I let your decision stand. Oono and Akagi and the rest of their followers threatened the Fire Nation and that's my domain. You should respect my decision."
Aang decided to try a new tactic. "What if the rest of the world thinks your country is returning to its old ways?"
"I think the rest of the world will see a leader who stands up to bullies and traitors and those who would kill children. If Oono had won, who knows what he would have tried next. Maybe he wouldn't stop at the Fire Nation. Then the world would have wondered why I didn't stop him."
"Well, I see that your mind really is made up. I wish I could make you see what I see."
"I won't budge, Aang, not on this. I'm truly sorry that you're upset and I hope that our friendship remains unaffected. I do care about you and how you feel."
"Zuko, I need to go and think. I'll see you tomorrow, early."
The Avatar left, without a goodnight or a goodbye and headed in the direction of his room. Zuko slumped down on a bench and looked up at the evening sky, wondering why life had to be so complex.
It was raining heavily the next morning as Mai, Zuko, Tomiko and Aang along with the requisite guards walked to the university. Zuko held a huge umbrella that protected him and his wife, while Aang and Tomiko shared another. By the time they reached the meeting hall, the sun was just beginning to move from its hiding place amongst the wall of dark grey clouds.
Tomiko wore a somber expression and his body was stiff and tense. He had eaten only a mouthful of breakfast despite Akane's tasty rolled omelet and grilled fish. That one mouthful sat like a lump of wet sand in his stomach. He covered his mouth afraid that he might sick up.
Aang placed a hand on his shoulder and gave it a squeeze.
"You'll do fine," he whispered to the boy. "You've been through worse."
"Okay," he gulped.
Inside, Nakada escorted Tomiko to the little desk where he would sit and tell his story. Mai gave him a quick hug and then moved to sit beside her husband and Aang. Oono and Akagi were brought in. They were pushed into their seats, once again directly across from Zuko. Tom was careful not to look at either man. He chose to look at his sister instead. Nakada questioned the boy gently, asking him about his time at Sacred Flame; how being at the school made him feel and so on. Finally he asked about the injury to Tom's hand inflicted upon him by Akagi, his decision to run away and his time with Nomura and Maho.
The longer the boy spoke, the stronger his voice became. He still stared straight ahead, into Mai's eyes that showed both pride and affection. The Fire Lady, with each statement made, grew angrier and angrier, though to look at her one would never know. The only indication she gave of her agitation was the subtle, instinctual reach for a blade. The normally cool steel had absorbed the heat from Mai's body and felt warm to the touch. She caressed it, running a finger lightly along its sharp edge. The touch was intimate, much like one lovers would share.
Zuko knew exactly what she was doing. He had to calm his internal flame with deep breathing. The desire to fling fireballs at the two men was difficult to resist. But it wasn't his place now to end the two men.
The avatar watched everything with eyes that were an incongruous combination of wise and naïve. He listened thoughtfully and examined the two traitors. Oono and Akagi both looked bored during Tom's testimony. They showed no remorse over their actions. They didn't dispute any of Tomiko's words. They did the opposite, in fact, proudly claiming each of the deeds as their own.
As Tomiko got up to leave, more than an hour later, Akagi turned his eyes on Tom and gave the boy a frightening smile.
"Goodbye, Matsuo," he said in a silky voice, sounding every bit like an oily traveling salesman buttering up a potential customer.
Tom's eyes narrowed and his expression grew fierce.
"Don't talk to me," he hissed.
Zuko made to get up but Mai placed a hand on his arm. The boy walked past his tormentor with great dignity and rejoined his family.
"You did great, Tom," Zuko said.
"You did," Mai agreed. "We can go home now."
"Are you coming, Zuko?" Tom asked.
"Sorry, I've got to stay a bit longer. I'll see you at lunch."
"K, Goodbye, Zuko. Goodbye, Aang."
The next witness was brought in. Zuko settled more comfortably into his seat and waited for the testimony to start.
They walked back to the palace together, the Avatar and the Fire Lord, and talked softly about the morning's proceedings.
"What do you think?" Zuko asked.
"They're horrible men who will probably always be horrible. I still can't agree with execution as a punishment. But…."
Aang hesitated briefly, choosing his words with care.
"…I acknowledge that it is your right, your nation's right, to hand down that sentence and I won't oppose you. That's the best I can do."
Zuko smiled at the young man. "I appreciate that more than I can say. Thank you, Aang."
"So," the Avatar said, changing the subject completely, "what's for lunch today? I'm starving."
Aang remained for the dinner with the dignitaries the following evening but left the next morning after breakfast.
"I miss Katara," he told everyone honestly. "But it was great to see all of you."
"Aww, isn't that sweet?" Toph said. "You people in love are all the same. Soon I'll be the only one unattached besides the twins. Tomiko will find someone before I do."
The boy flushed. "Yuck," he said with disgust.
"You won't be saying 'yuck' in about four years," Toph assured Tom.
He looked imploringly at Mai who just shrugged. Aang gave everyone a hug, leaving Mai for last.
"I hope we're okay," he whispered as they embraced.
"We're okay," Mai assured the Avatar.
After the kids gave Appa one final pat, Aang left with a grin and a wave.
"That went better than I thought it would," the knife thrower drawled.
Zuko wrapped an arm around her.
"Yeah, I was a little worried."
Tom approached the couple. "I'm going to my room. I want to make sure I have everything ready for school tomorrow."
"Okay," Mai replied. When he was out of earshot she turned to Zuko. "He's already checked a dozen times."
"He's got a big day tomorrow. He'll be fine once it's over."
"I hope so. So your little trip is all set?"
"Yeah, day after tomorrow I'm going to the asylum."
Mai sighed. "It's going to be an interesting week."