Here's the next chapter! Thank you for reading and reviewing! I appreciate all your comments and encouragement!
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AtLA is no property of mine.
Chapter Forty-Nine
Recovering Strength
Katara slowly opened her drowsy eyes, and noticed that Zuko was once again protectively wrapped around her. He was asleep with his head pillowed by her breasts, one of his strong legs thrown over and curved around both of hers. His left arm was wrapped around her, holding her close and tightly to him. He was very warm and slightly heavy, but that did not bother her. With a small smile, Katara lifted her hand and gently ran her fingers through his dark hair, longer now than before. With a soft sigh, she looked away from gazing at his dark head to look around the royal bedchamber. The light of dawn was spilling into the quiet room, casting it in a soft orangey hue.
A month had passed since the rebels' attack on the Earth Kingdom villages. Ever since the morning after Jianguo had almost forced himself on her and Zuko had loved her both possessively and tenderly, she had woken up with her husband holding her tightly to him as if he were afraid she would be snatched from his side while he slept. But she did not mind. It made her feel safe and she had not had another nightmare of that horrible event.
Her smile faded.
However, only when she was near Zuko did she feel secure. She now tended to look over her shoulder as if expecting someone to jump out to grab her. And whenever there was another man present, she would feel her hands begin to sweat and her heart quicken in anxiety. If they came closer than she was comfortable, she would flinch and quickly move into a defensive stance before she could stop herself.
She had first noticed her reaction the day they left Omashu and Jet had approached her. He had tried to convince her to stay, and when she had firmly refused, he had moved to embrace her, leaning down and trying to kiss her as he had many times before. She had jumped away and backed herself against the wall as she stared at him in fear. Jet had frozen in shock at her reaction before he worriedly asked her what was wrong. She was saved from responding when Zuko had immediately rushed over to her side. He had curtly bid farewell to Jet before he wrapped his arm around her and led her away. Jet had seemed so stunned, then hurt and resigned as he called out a sad goodbye to her. She had only given him a tentative smile as she allowed Zuko to lead her away. She felt bad since it was not Jet's fault that Jianguo attacked her and it wasn't Jet's fault that he did not know what happened. Yet, she could not help feeling relieved at the thought that Jet would no longer chase after her. At least she hoped he didn't.
However, she also reacted the same way with Iroh, Jee, Shen and Kuo—men she knew would give up their lives before harming her. Although her logical side knew this, her body and mind acted as if she feared they would attack her out of nowhere. She could not help but remember her helplessness when Jianguo loomed over her and the fear and disgust that roiled through her. Zuko now tried to find time in his busy schedule to spend time with her and try to help her overcome her sudden fear of men, but so far nothing was working. She could barely concentrate on her lessons with Madam Fang Hua. Her condition was also affecting her duties as Fire Lady for she made excuses about postponing some of the charity works that required her leaving the safety of the palace and be amongst a crowd. She would feel herself get anxious at the thought that Jianguo could be there to kidnap her again and this time she would not be able to do anything to keep from being violated.
Screwing her eyes shut, Katara shook her head. Why could she not forget? She hated feeling weak. She hated that she was always in fear. She hated living this way. She blinked her eyes open when she felt Zuko stir above her as he tightened his hold of her slightly before relaxing.
"Good morning," she greeted softly.
At the sound of his waterbender's voice, Zuko looked up and gazed searchingly into her eyes before he smiled.
"Good morning," he responded before he added with a frown, "You're up early again."
Katara gave him a tight smile since the thought of waking up alone after Zuko left made her apprehensive. Now she tended to wake up around dawn like Zuko did. She had to admit that it made her more tired than usual. She watched Zuko frown as if reading her thoughts before he leaned down to kiss her gently on her lips. He lingered for a second before he disentangled himself from around her and stood up from the large bed.
"We should get ready," he said, "We both have busy schedules today."
Katara sat up on the bed and nodded her head. Zuko was silent as he stared at her before he sighed and turned around to head toward the bathing chamber to wash up. Katara frowned as she hugged her knees to her chest. Zuko now treated her as if she were a fragile piece of glass that would shatter at any rough touch or harsh word. Whenever she irritated him, he would close his eyes and breathe deeply to calm himself down instead of arguing with her, with that fiery temper of his, as he would do before. Whenever he made to touch her, he would move slowly as if giving her the chance to move away if she wanted to. The worst part, however, was that he never initiated sexual intimacy anymore. She was the one who had to initiate it. And once they did finally come together, he loved her gently as if afraid if he was any rougher she would break down.
She appreciated everything he did to make her feel safe and comfortable, but it only made her realize how weak she had become, how much she had changed from the fearless woman she used to be.
Sighing, Katara lifted the covers away from her and stood up. She was just fixing her nightgown when Zuko walked back into the room and sat down to meditate before the small altar in the corner. Katara frowned at his silence, before she silently walked into the bathroom to bathe, closing the door softly behind her.
Out of the corner of his eye, Zuko watched his wife go before sighing when she disappeared. Everything was different now. He did not know what to do to make Katara feel better. She was so skittish now, so he tried to do everything in his power not to upset her and to help make her feel like her old self. He even tried to rein in his temper when she sometimes argued with him. He sought her out every chance he got, even if it upset his advisors for neglecting some of his duties. They had noticed a change in Katara and had begun asking what had happened to their lady, but Zuko always told them it was nothing for them to worry about.
He now tended to sleep wrapped around her body so he could make her feel safe. But it also comforted him at the thought that nothing could steal her away from him. And although he still wanted to make love to her at every moment, he curbed his urges and waited until she initiated their intimacy. And when she did, he took her slowly and tenderly. She sometimes withdrew to some place inside at such moments, and still he held her, loved her. Although the more passionate and wilder side of him wanted to take her fiercely, needed to touch her, taste her, melt into her slick and heated body, he knew she needed time to truly feel safe once again.
He did not like how things had become. And it was all Jianguo's fault.
Zuko grit his teeth as rage once again consumed him as it did every time he thought of the bastard. The candles before him flared at his heated emotions. Because of Jianguo, Zuko had almost lost Katara. Twice. And what Katara was going through now was all Jianguo's fault. A man who could harm a woman in such a way was no man in his opinion. He would make the former general pay with his life.
The firebender was brought out of his murderous thoughts when he heard Katara open the door. He blinked before he frowned because he had failed in his meditation exercises. He would just have to make it up the next morning. Extinguishing the candles, he gracefully stood up from the cushion and turned around. He saw that his wife was wrapped in a towel. Zuko swallowed hard before he looked away from her tempting body in order to rein in his desire to grab her to him, lay her back on the bed, and slip himself inside her. He gave her a strained smile before he turned away. They made small talk as they dressed themselves for the day. Once they were ready, Zuko gently took her hands and leaned down to kiss her cheek before letting her go.
"Mother and Uncle are probably already waiting for us to eat breakfast," he said as he walked toward the door and opened it for her.
Katara thanked him as she went through before smiling when she spotted Iroh and Ursa already sitting in the antechamber. After a brief greeting, Zuko and Katara sat on their spots and the small family began to eat their breakfast. Ursa and Iroh started a light conversation and Katara soon joined in. Zuko ate in silence as he listened to them, while occasionally observing his wife eat.
"During lunch today, we have to meet a few of the noblewomen in the public garden," Ursa told Katara with a sympathetic smile.
They laughed quietly when Katara groaned.
"Well, I'll leave you to that," Zuko spoke up with a chuckle as he wiped his mouth, "I have a very busy schedule today."
"Okay, try not to let the advisors upset you," Katara teased as she smiled at him.
Zuko returned the smile wryly. He reached his hand out to softly squeeze her hand before he stood up. Nodding at his older relatives, Zuko made his way to the doors and left. Katara watched him go with a sad smile. She knew how much their situation was affecting him even though he did not say anything.
"Come," Ursa said, bringing the waterbender out of her thoughts, "We have to look into a few things before we meet the noblewomen."
"I will see you ladies at dinner," Iroh spoke up with a smile as he stood up before he added teasingly, "Good luck with the noblewomen."
"Thanks, Uncle Iroh," Katara muttered sarcastically.
Iroh chuckled as he left the room. Ursa and Katara gave each other a disgruntled look before they laughed and stood up. As they left the royal antechamber, they saw Shen and a female guard come to attention. With a smile aimed at them, the Fire Lady and her mother-in-law walked down the corridor with the guards following silently behind. Katara remembered Zuko telling her that Kuo had asked for a few days off because Jiao had not been feeling well for the past week. Katara hoped she was okay.
With a grim expression, Zuko turned the lock of the heavy, steel door and opened it. He stepped inside the gloomy prison cell before closing the door firmly behind him. He took a second to adjust his eyesight to the darkness. The only light visible was from the torch hanging beside the door. Narrowing his eyes, he strode toward the cell bars that divided the cold room.
"My, what a pleasant surprise," Ozai's sarcastic voice echoed in the dark space. "I would have thought you wouldn't want to see me again after your last visit."
Zuko clenched his jaw as he remained silent. This time he would not allow his father to distract him from getting the answers he wanted.
He was brought out of his thoughts when Ozai spoke again.
"I heard from the guards you actually got married. How is that waterbender wife of yours?" Ozai asked as he glanced at his nails uninterestingly before he looked up to smirk at his silent son.
Zuko forced himself not to tense at Ozai's question and remain impassive.
"I bet she satisfies you greatly in bed," the older man continued with a leer. "Tell me, does she use her waterbending in the bedroom?"
"What my wife and I do is none of your business," Zuko growled out angrily.
Ozai chuckled as he again looked down at his nails.
"I can't believe you actually went through with it and married that tribe woman," Ozai added derisively. He paused before he looked up and lewdly added, "I understand wanting to fuck her and wring out all the pleasure her body can give you, but I can't understand wanting to actually marry her."
"I thought I told you I'd cut off your tongue if you ever talked about her in that way," Zuko growled out angrily as he threateningly lit one hand in fire. "Katara is my wife and she deserves to be respected."
Ozai eyed his son's blazing hand warily and with a bit of envy. He missed being able to firebend, he missed the feeling of immense power that coursed through his body as he created fire. He missed many things such as wine, exquisite food, and the pleasure of a woman's body. He'd preferred if that woman was Ursa, but he also liked to have a bevy of women waiting for his pleasure. But because of Zuko and that child-Avatar, he was stuck to wile his days away in a dirty prison cell. He hated them. He could only hope a day would arrive soon when he could escape his prison and take revenge for what had been done to him. Coming out of his thoughts, Ozai looked away with a shrug and casually paced the length of his cell.
"Tell me what you know of Jianguo," Zuko ordered firmly. He wanted to know what Jianguo's plans were so he could keep Katara safe and away from the bastard. He also did not want Ozai to know that Katara was not herself at the moment or that Jianguo and the rebels were targeting Katara and him. He observed his sire's reaction with deep scrutiny.
"Jianguo?" Ozai asked in confusion before he waved a dismissive hand. "Ah, you mean General Meng. The arrogant man is probably dead by now, which is too bad since he did give me some of the best concubines I ever had."
Zuko sniffed derisively at the older man's words.
"I know you are aware that Jianguo participated in the rebellion to overthrow me years ago," Zuko continue in a harsh tone, "I want you to tell me everything you know about that and what he plans next."
"Why do you assume I know anything?" Ozai asked with a sneer. "I haven't set foot outside this wretched place in years," he growled as he indicated the dirty prison cell he was locked in before he mockingly added, "And even if I did know anything, what makes you think I would tell you?"
The younger man narrowed his eyes and clenched his jaw since his sire made valid points.
"But I'm glad to know that there are still people loyal to the true Fire Lord," Ozai continue with a smirk. "You just gave me a bit of hope."
Zuko mentally growled at his slip. It would have been better if he had not told Ozai anything if his sire really did not know.
"I wouldn't get my hopes up if I were you," Zuko commented coolly before his tone became hard as he added, "I will not allow them to succeed. When I finally catch those opposing me, they will suffer the consequences, even if they swear their loyalty to me. Your former most trusted advisor will be the first to suffer my wrath."
"Are you talking about Wei?" Ozai asked uninterestedly as he again inspected his nails before he sniffed, "That coward? If he really wanted to help me, he should've made himself useful during the rebellion, but instead he decided to remain an advisor so he could get fatter and richer."
Zuko narrowed his eyes. He did not know what to make of all that Ozai had said. Was he lying or did he really not know anything about Jianguo? Zuko leaned more toward the idea that what Ozai said was a lie, yet how would his sire know about anything going outside the prison tower? He wanted to ask Ozai what he knew about Jianguo's plan and the rebels, but he pressed his lips tightly together and remained silent. If for some reason Ozai was truly ignorant about the rebels' plan in releasing him, then Zuko wanted to keep him as ignorant about it as possible. Besides, he knew that if Ozai really was aware of their plans, then he most assuredly would not divulge anything to his despised offspring. Zuko clenched his hands. He saw Ozai smirk calculatingly and he glared at his sire warily.
"Something must have happened for you to come to me with such questions," Ozai mused as he shrewdly observed his now impassive son.
"Why do you say that?" Zuko asked tersely.
"You haven't bothered to visit me for months now," Ozai commented casually as he flicked a speck of dust from his shoulder. "So something tragic must have happened for you to come to me."
He paused before he again looked up to observe his suddenly tense first born. Ozai was silent a moment before a knowing smirk appeared on his dry lips.
"It must be something that made you angry and scared…" he trailed off before he cruelly added, "Did something happen to your lovely wife?"
Zuko suppressed the urge to growl at him as he forced himself not to react violently as the memory hit him once again. He did not want to divulge anything that concerned Katara to Ozai.
"I see I wasted my time coming here," the young lord finally replied in an expressionless voice.
Without another word, Zuko turned away and headed toward the door.
"Wait!" Ozai called out.
Zuko paused before he looked over his shoulder and lifted an expectant eyebrow.
"Tell me how Ursa is," Ozai commanded.
Zuko was about to turn back around and ignore the question, but he decided to make his cruel sire suffer a little for all the pain he had caused his mother.
"Mother is doing very well," Zuko replied coolly. "She is content, much better off than she ever was with you."
The last thing he saw was Ozai's pained expression before Zuko opened the steel door and walked out, already regretting wasting his time in visiting Ozai. Locking the door, the Fire Lord frowned as he strode down the long, gloomy hall. If only there was some way he could learn of Jianguo's whereabouts so he could end the rebel's life for the suffering Katara was going through. All he could do now for the moment was comfort his wife the best way he could.
After looking over some petition letters from the common people, Katara and Ursa decided to visit the infirmary and Yin-Min, Physician Toshiro's assistant. Katara wanted to make sure the medicinal supplies she had ordered from Toshiro's list had already arrived.
After returning to the Fire Nation, Katara had visited the young female assistant to shyly ask for more of the fertile blend, though she wondered how it would work if Zuko and she were barely intimate at the moment. Before the incident in Omashu, she and Zuko had been at each other like squirrel-rabbits, as something Toph would say, making love a couple times a day and almost every night. But now they only had sex a few times a week and sometimes even less than that.
Yin-Min had frowned, expressing her concern for the blend's ineffectuality, before she agreed to make some more. Katara had visited the next few days and they made small talk since the assistant was still so timid with others. During one of those days, Katara almost had an anxiety attack when one of Physician Toshiro's patients, suffering from a serious injury, had woken up and mistakenly took Katara as his wife in his delirium. He had jumped from his cot and stumbled toward the frozen waterbender before he collapsed in his weakness. Toshiro and a servant had apologized to their Fire Lady before they rushed to help the man back to the cot.
They had not noticed the waterbender's fear, but Yin-Min had and she rushed to help her. She took the shaken woman to Toshiro's office where she then gave the waterbender a soothing tea. Katara had thanked her and quietly drank the tea, ashamed by her reaction. She paused when Yin-Min hesitantly asked her if a man had hurt her. Katara had stared at her in shock, but Yin-Min smiled sympathetically and said she understood what it felt like to be afraid of men. After a long hesitation, Katara confided in her what she had gone through in Omashu. Yin-Min had been sympathetic and offered words of comfort and understanding. She was the only one who seemed to understand what Katara was going through. It seemed their experiences, though different, had not only made Yin-Min less timid around Katara but also brought them closer.
The waterbender and her mother-in-law arrived in the infirmary and looked around the spacious room. Katara smiled when she spotted Yin-Min stocking supplies.
"Hello, Yin-Min," Katara greeted as she approached the woman. "How are you?"
The small woman turned around and gave a small smile as she bowed to the Fire Lady.
"I am well, my lady," she replied quietly before she worriedly asked, "How are you feeling today?"
"A bit better, thank you," the waterbender replied vaguely.
Yin-Min smiled softly in understanding before she informed them that the new supplies had arrived and they were being brought in by the servants. For the next few minutes, the three women talked idly as they looked over the supplies that had already been brought in. Katara paused mid-sentence when she felt someone approach her from behind. She spun away as quickly as she had pulled out the water from her waterskin and formed a water whip, her stance aggressive. Her eyes widened as large as the servant's who was carrying boxes and stopped mid-step at the threat. Ursa and Yin-Min froze in surprise.
"M-my l-lady?" the male servant squeaked.
"I-I…I'm sorry," the waterbender stammered as she quickly replaced her water and moved away.
"Ah…why don't you put those boxes over on that desk?" Yin-Min quickly spoke up as she directed the frightened servant to a table far away from the nervous Fire Lady.
The servant quickly set down the boxes before he swiftly walked out of the room.
Katara clenched her eyes shut and sighed deeply, berating herself for her reaction.
"Katara dear, are you all right?" Ursa asked softly as she approached her daughter-in-law and gently placed her hand on her back.
"I don't know why I keep reacting that way," Katara hissed between gritted teeth.
"Do not be too hard on yourself, my lady," Yin-Min spoke up shyly before she painfully added, "At least you are not crying uncontrollably or quivering in fear in a corner whenever a man approaches you."
Katara opened her eyes to stare wide-eyed at the woman.
"Yin-Min…" she began before she trailed off uncertainly, "Is that how you…reacted?"
The physician's assistant fidgeted uncomfortably for a moment as she averted her eyes to the floor and cringed. Katara frowned before she opened her mouth to tell her she did not need to answer.
"Yes," Yin-Min finally confessed and she clenched her trembling hands before her. She closed her eyes and swallowed thickly as she continued, "The constant years of being…raped by O-Ozai instilled a great fear in me at the mere thought of being near a man. I lived in such a state for many years, but fortunately, I am better now."
"Oh, Yin-Min," Ursa breathed sadly.
Yin-Min again fidgeted as she hugged herself before she took a deep breath and opened her eyes. She regarded the two women looking at her sympathetically for a long moment, as if debating with herself, before she continued.
"O-Ozai…was not a gentle lover," she admitted with a shudder of revulsion. "Every time he…made use of my body, he was brutal and relentless. He also had very strange and perverse ways for…rutting. And when he was angry, I suffered bruises and burns. He was a cruel man and only sought his own pleasure."
Yin-Min again shuddered and grimaced as if she were remembering some of those horrible moments. For the next few minutes, she opened enough of herself to painfully recount her past as Ozai's concubine. Katara and Ursa listened to her story with sadness and anger. Once Yin-Min finished her story, Katara turned to look worriedly at her mother-in-law. The noblewoman noticed the waterbender's stare and shook her head.
"Ozai never hurt me when we…were together," Ursa assured her softly before she added, "Perhaps he was afraid of the repercussions if he did so and that is why he sought to have his…more perverse desires satisfied by his concubines."
After composing herself, Yin-Min shook her head. Ursa frowned confusedly at her.
"He never hurt you because he cared for you," the young assistant confessed quietly.
"What?" Ursa asked incredulously.
"Sometimes," Yin-Min continued as she licked her suddenly dry lips, "when Ozai was very drunk he would call your name and would almost be gentle before he…turned even more violent than usual when he realized it was not you he was with. Since we all thought you were dead, the other concubines and I thought he acted that way because he missed you. That or because he felt guilty for what he did to you."
Clenching her hands to her sides, Ursa narrowed her eyes.
"As he should," the noblewoman said heatedly, "However, I still believe he would have harmed me if he could. My banishment was both a blessing and a curse."
The times that Ozai had bedded her in the early years of their marriage, he had only sought his own pleasure. He had not hurt her, but he had not been a gentle or caring lover either. If Ursa thought really hard about it, she could honestly say that she had experience pleasure perhaps a few times. At the time she had been young and inexperienced, and fancied herself to be in love with him so she had not minded his attentions—or inattention, as if were, when it came to herself and her pleasure.
This time it was Katara who laid a comforting hand on the older woman's back.
"Both of you are lucky for not knowing the cruel touch of a man," Yin-Min spoke up quietly.
Both Katara and Ursa frowned since they did not know how to respond without making Yin-Min feel worse for what happened to her. Katara felt even more horrible. Even though what Jianguo did to her had traumatized her, he had not succeeded in raping her, yet she was constantly afraid. But Yin-Min had actually suffered endless abuse for years and she was getting better, albeit slowly as was understandable. She was brought out of her thoughts when Yin-Min continued.
"That is why I am so grateful to Fire Lord Zuko for giving me a choice to live my own life," the young woman confessed with a small smile and a slight blush, "And I vowed to be loyal to him because he is a kind and honorable lord."
The Fire Lady caught her mother-in-law's eyes and they smiled proudly before they looked back at the now calm Yin-Min.
It seems that Zuko was the one who started Yin-Min's process of healing, Katara mused with a smile, And of course, he's not even aware of what he did.
They were again interrupted when more servants arrived with the last of the medicinal supplies. For the next few minutes, Yin-Min stocked the medicine while Katara and Ursa inspected the boxes and noted down the items on Toshiro's records. With a thoughtful expression, Katara watched as Yin-Min finished placing the last item on one of the many shelves around the room.
"Yin-Min," Katara called out before she curiously added, "Have you ever thought of marrying or being in a relationship?"
The young assistant paused before she slowly turned around to face the curious Fire Lady. She again fidgeted with her hands as she tried to gather enough courage to open herself up.
"I…I hated the thought of being with another man for a long while," Yin-Min admitted with a grimace before she softly added, "But I do want to have a healthy relationship and know what it feels like to be loved."
Katara saw a small blush had appeared on Yin-Min's cheeks and her curiosity rose.
"Is there a man you like?" Katara asked with a gentle smile.
Yin-Min's blush intensified and she averted her eyes shyly as she fidgeted with her apron. After a moment, she raised her eyes to Katara and bashfully nodded her head.
"Yes," she confessed quietly.
"Have you tried to have some kind of relationship with him yet?" Ursa asked kindly.
"No," Yin-Min admitted with a grimace.
"Why not?" Katara asked with a frown.
The small woman averted her eyes again and her shoulders hunched a bit as she let out a sad sigh.
"He barely acknowledges my existence," she muttered before she let out a pained sigh. "Besides, what man would want a woman who has been used and damaged?" she whispered brokenly.
With a small frown, Katara walked up to the dejected woman and laid a comforting hand on her shoulder. Yin-Min looked up in surprise to stare at the Fire Lady's kind, blue eyes.
"What Ozai did to you was not your fault," Katara told her softly. She paused since it seemed as if she were comforting herself as well. Shaking her head, the waterbender continued with a smile, "You are young, beautiful, smart, and gentle. If this man doesn't appreciate it, I'm sure you'll find that special man who will overlook what happened to you and love you for you."
Katara watched as Yin-Min's yellowish eyes began to glisten with tears. Smiling encouragingly, Katara gave her shoulder a soft squeeze as the woman began to cry quietly.
"You are so kind, my lady," Yin-Min said gratefully, "Thank you for your words."
Ursa smiled at her daughter-in-law as they waited for the physician assistant to compose herself. Once she did, they talked for a while longer before the Fire Lord's wife and his mother left the infirmary. As they walked down the golden corridor, Katara again remembered the words she told Yin-Min and tried to apply them to herself. She wanted to get better. She wanted to be herself again.
Lunchtime arrived and Katara found herself surrounded by Fire Nation noblewomen once again. They were sitting on cushions in one of the clearings of the public garden, drinking tea and eating a light lunch as they enjoyed the warm weather. For the next two hours, the blue-eyed Fire Lady forced herself to sit through another session of gossip and fake flattery. Tuning out what the women were talking about, Katara wondered what Zuko was doing. Remembering her conversation with Yin-Min, Katara was grateful that she had such an understanding and honorable man as her husband. If Zuko had been like many other men, he could have cast her aside, if not for being actually raped at least for almost being violated. She thought her heart would have broken if Zuko had reacted in such a way.
She was brought out of her thoughts when her mother-in-law discreetly nudged her elbow. Katara refocused her attention and noticed that the women were expectantly looking at her.
"Uh, excuse me, would you mind repeating that again?" she asked politely.
"We were saying that it would be nice if you hosted a ball soon," one of the younger women repeated excitedly, "Royal celebrations are the best!"
"Absolutely!" another woman enthused, "It has been a while since there had been a party at the palace!"
Katara mentally sighed as the women continued to chatter. She was not up to having any kind of celebration at the moment. Besides, she knew how much Zuko detested having their home invaded with nobles as much as he hated dancing in public. She almost smiled. Her husband's taciturn personality was sometimes adorable. When she realized the women were waiting for her response, she cleared her throat to speak.
"I will ask my husband about a possible celebration in the palace," she replied.
The women exclaimed their excitement with squeals and giggles. They were too busy thinking about what to wear to such an event that they did not realize their Fire Lady had not exactly promised to host a ball. Katara caught her mother-in-law's amused look and she inwardly grinned. A few minutes later, the women bid their goodbyes with promises of another luncheon before departing. Katara almost sagged with relief. She did not think she will ever get used to them.
"Now we have to look over the list of things that need to be stocked for the kitchen," Ursa spoke up as she daintily wiped her mouth before she smiled at Katara. "I suppose we can wait another day before we head out to the city for other business."
Katara gave her a strained smile as they both stood up and walked back down one of the stone paths that led to the palace. Admiral Jee, Shen, and the female guard immediately step behind them. Halfway on their walk, Katara paused when she realized she had forgotten the waterskin Zuko had given her for her birthday. She had taken it off and placed it next to her cushion while she had lunch with the women.
"Is something wrong?" Ursa asked.
"I forgot my waterskin," Katara told her with a sheepish smile, "I'll be back."
She turned around and motioned for the guards to wait for her when they moved to follow her. They frowned but bowed their heads in acquiescence. Walking quickly, Katara retraced her steps and sighed in relief when she saw that the servants had still not arrived to clean the table. She moved to the spot where she had been sitting and smiled when she found her waterskin where she had left it.
She bent down to pick it up only to freeze when the sound of male voices reached her ears. Her hand hovered over the waterskin's opening before she ordered herself to calm down. She stood up and tied it to her hip as she warily strained her ears to figure out where the men were. She relaxed when she realized they were in the next clearing which was blocked by high, thick shrubberies. Satisfied, she began walking away only to pause when she heard Zuko's name, but she could not really hear what the men were saying. Curious, she walked closer to the high wall of bushes and silently pressed close so she could make out what they were saying. She recognized the voices as two of Zuko's advisors and she strained her ears to discern what they were saying.
"…know why Fire Lord Zuko bothers with meetings if he is just going to dismiss us a few minutes later so he could run to his wife," one of the men said, disapproval heavy in his tone.
"I wonder what happened to Fire Lady Katara," the other man, a younger one by the sound of his voice, said.
"I don't know," the first man replied gruffly before he added, "But she has changed our lord. Now he's constantly worried about her. She's a weakness to him. She doesn't leave the palace and only stays in the western wing. She doesn't even bother with the charity works like in the beginning. Maybe she got bored of it."
"I really believed Lady Katara would have made a fine Fire Lady," the second man added with a sigh, "But I'm disappointed to see I was wrong."
Katara bit her lip when she felt a fire of indignation flare within her before she stopped herself from tongue-lashing them. She could not refute their words since they were right. Carefully, she made her way back to where the others were waiting, deep in thought. She gave them a small smile when they turned to look at her.
"Are you okay?" Ursa asked her gently.
Wincing inwardly, Katara plastered a reassuring smile on her face.
"I'm fine," she replied before she added, "But if you don't mind, I'd like to rest a bit in the Fire Lady bedchamber before we continue."
Ursa and Jee turned to frown at each other as they watched the young waterbender leave with her guards.
"Do you think she will ever return to herself?" Ursa asked quietly.
"Only time will tell," Jee responded before he added reassuringly, "Fire Lady Katara is a strong woman. I have faith that she will surpass whatever is bothering her."
Ursa smiled. "You are right."
Entering the remodeled Fire Lady bedchamber, Katara softly closed the door before she slowly looked around one of her favorite rooms in the palace. Even though she had been in this room many times, she never got tired of it. For the past month, it had become her refuge. She smiled. She was so grateful that Zuko had given her such a gift, a way for her to stay connected with her origins and her family. The thought of her family made her smile sadly. She missed them and she wondered when she would be able to see them again.
With a sigh, Katara walked toward one of the plush pile of furs in the room and sat heavily down on it as she repeated the advisors' words in her head.
Am I really a weakness to Zuko? she thought forlornly to herself.
Such a thought made her realize other things she had tried to avoid. She had been wallowing in fear and self-pity that she had not noticed how badly she was hurting her husband, the one person she wanted to make happy above anything in the world. Hurting him was the last thing she wanted.
Rising to her feet, Katara strode toward the mirror hanging on one wall and shrewdly studied her reflection. She looked at the timid woman before her, at the paler-than-normal tone of her brown skin, at the dark circles under her nervous, blue eyes. She narrowed her eyes and clenched her fists against her sides.
Enough.
She had lived in fear long enough. She had to overcome it so she could move on. If she continued the way she was, she would only allow Jianguo to win. And she refused to allow that to happen. She would try to forget what happened, learn from it, and put it behind her. She would become stronger from it. She would make Zuko stop holding himself back from her for fear of hurting her. She would make him proud. And most of all, she would prove to everybody that she was a strong woman and would be the best Fire Lady that ever was.
She would make those men regret their words.
New determination flared within her and she smiled as she felt she was once again becoming the strong woman she was—maybe one who was even stronger. With one last look at her reflection, Katara squared her shoulders and walked out of her sanctuary. Shen and the female guard immediately came to attention.
"Shen, where is my husband?" Katara asked him as she turned to face him expectantly.
Shen's gray eyes widened a bit in surprise at his lady's former strong-willed tone before he composed himself.
"I believe he is in his study before his next meeting commences," he informed her quickly.
With a nod, Katara determinedly walked down the long corridor and made her way toward Zuko's study. Shen followed bewilderingly behind her, though he was glad to see his lady's former spirit return.
Sitting behind his large desk, Zuko carefully looked over a stack of documents before the upcoming meeting with his advisors. He knew some of them were upset with him and his behavior, but he did not let that bother him since he was not completely neglecting his duties. He still had Wei on watch, but the old advisor had not done anything suspicious. Zuko frowned. Perhaps he should stop laying the blame on the one advisor he disliked just because he had no other suspects in mind.
When he came upon the last scroll, Zuko eagerly broke the seal once he realized it was from his captain stationed in the colonies. As he finished reading it, he angrily pushed it away with an angry snarl. His captain reported that they still could not find any clues about Jianguo's whereabouts or any of his rebels.
They are hiding again like the cowards they are, Zuko thought with a sneer before he growled and banged his fist on the desk.
A few days ago, Zuko had received a letter from Aang saying he and Toph were also looking for Jianguo whenever they had the chance, but they have not had any luck. Zuko appreciated their help. Iroh had informed him that the Order of the White Lotus had also not found any clues. Zuko sighed.
Where could Jianguo and the rebels be?
Zuko clenched his hands and smoke rose from them. If only he could track Jianguo down to beat him within an inch of his life before he slowly killed the bastard. But then that meant he would have to leave Katara behind and that was something he would not do, especially since it could give Jianguo an opportunity to kidnap her again. Zuko knew that the only reason Jianguo had failed in his first attempt to capture him and Katara and his second attempt to kidnap Katara was thanks to Jianguo's overconfidence. But Zuko could not rely on that to keep Katara and his nation safe. But once his men found Jianguo, Zuko would make him pay with his life for all the harm he had done. The Fire Lord was interrupted from his thoughts when he heard a knock at his door.
Frowning, he called out an impassive 'enter'. When he heard the door open, he looked up and his eyes widened when he saw Katara enter the room. His cool mask fell and was replaced by a warm expression.
"Katara," he called out softly as he stood up from his large chair as she approached.
He paused when he noticed that his now skittish wife had been replaced by the former strong woman he married. His eyebrows rose in surprise at the fire he saw in her once dull eyes. Snapping out of his stupor, he rounded the desk to meet her.
"What's the matter?" he asked.
Katara stopped before her husband and looked determinedly up into his curious, golden eyes.
"I want you to train me to fight and defend myself," she told him firmly without any hesitation.
"What?" Zuko asked in bewilderment.
"I can defeat anyone with my waterbending," she continued resolutely before she frowned, "But twice now I have come to realize that without my waterbending, I'm weak."
Zuko opened his mouth to argue, but he stopped when she held out a hand. He frowned.
"You know it's true," she told him.
The firebender's frown deepened.
"You don't need to worry anymore," he spoke up comfortingly, "You're safe now."
"You can't guarantee that even if you really wish to," she replied truthfully.
Zuko narrowed his eyes.
"You don't believe I can keep you safe?" he growled out.
Frowning, Katara stepped closer to him and placed a gentle hand on his chest.
"That's not what I meant," she told him softly, "I know you can keep me safe. I feel protected when I'm with you, but we can never be sure of the future."
When Zuko continued to frown, Katara ran soothing caresses on his chest as she stared up into his piercing, amber eyes.
"Even if we take all the precautions possible, something could happen when we least expect it," she reasoned before she continued firmly, "I want to be prepared. I never want to feel vulnerable and weak again. I never want to find myself in a helpless position, waiting to be rescued." She paused briefly before she softly added, "What if next time you don't make it in time?"
A pained expression flashed across Zuko's face at the thought. It was a fear that he now constantly carried with him.
"I don't want to be a weakness and a liability to you, Zuko," Katara continued as she stared sincerely into his eyes.
"You are not a weakness," he replied with a frown.
"Many of your advisors think otherwise," she replied with a grimace.
Growling, Zuko narrowed his eyes.
"Who told you that?" he asked angrily.
Katara shook her head and waved her hand dismissively.
"That doesn't matter, what matters is that I refuse to be a timid and weak wife," she told him firmly, "I refuse to continue living in fear. I want to be like how I was before. I want to be stronger."
Zuko was silent as he thought over what his wife said before he finally acknowledged to himself that she was right. Even if he swore to himself that he would keep her safe, anything could happen. Life was unpredictable like that. And what if next time he did not make it in time to save her? He closed his eyes to bear the pain and fear at that possibility before he opened his eyes to look down at his wife patiently waiting for him to reply. He admired her determination. He could not begrudge her wish to become stronger and her desire to defend him from what his men thought of him. He would help her become stronger and he would help her get her confidence in herself back.
"I agree with everything you said, Katara," he told her sincerely, "You have my complete assistance and support."
Zuko saw Katara relax immediately at his words and she smiled brightly at him before she wrapped her arms around his waist and embraced him tightly. He quickly returned her embrace.
"Thank you, Zuko," she sighed.
Zuko swallowed as he tried to rein in the sudden flare of arousal that sprang within him at the feeling of her in his arms. He wished he could ease her back onto his large desk, raise her dress over her hips and make love to her like he had done before. Zuko mentally shook his head. He should not get ahead of himself. Just because Katara was determined to become stronger did not necessarily mean she was ready for any wild trysts. With a sigh, he held her tenderly against him.
"I can't prohibit your wish to better yourself," he admitted to her softly.
He pulled away slowly and stared down into her cobalt eyes.
"What do you wish to learn?" he asked.
"Hand-to-hand combat," Katara replied immediately, "In case I can't waterbend and have no weapons, I want to know how to defend myself against a larger opponent."
"That is a good choice," Zuko replied with a nod.
Katara smiled. She was glad to know that Zuko wanted to help her better herself and become stronger instead of keeping her hidden in the palace to keep her safe from the outside world. She knew he would understand that she needed to do this.
"Thank you, Zuko," she said as she snuggled into his warmth.
"What is there to thank?" he asked.
When Katara raised her head to look at him, Zuko leaned down to kiss her gently. With a soft sigh, Katara pressed herself closer to him and slowly parted her lips. She moaned happily when her firebender quickly slipped his tongue into her inviting mouth and deepened their kiss. When he crushed her to him so tightly that her breasts ached at the hard contact with his chest, she groaned in approval. Maybe this time Zuko would have no qualms in making love to her however and whenever he wished. She felt her body warm at the memory of Zuko taking her on his desk and she wondered if he would do so again right at the moment.
A knock at the door interrupted them and they quickly pulled apart. Cursing under his breath, Zuko growled frustratingly as he let go of his tempting wife before he moved back to sit on his chair. With a sigh, Katara sat on the chair across from him.
"Enter," Zuko called out gruffly.
They watched as the door opened before they relaxed when they saw Kuo allow Jiao to go ahead of him before he entered and closed the door after him. They both bowed to their lord and lady before they approached closer.
"How are you feeling, Jiao?" Zuko inquired after Katara had greeted them.
"I'm feeling better, my lord," Jiao responded with a small smile.
"I was worried when my husband told me you weren't feeling well," Katara spoke up as she smiled kindly at her maidservant, "But I'm glad to know that you are fine."
Katara and Zuko watched curiously as a large, happy smile stretched Jiao's lips.
"I am more than fine, my lady," she assured them.
The royal couple looked at her wonderingly before they turned their attention to Kuo when he cleared his throat.
"My lord," he began as he straightened himself, "I would like to ask for your permission for my wife to have a lighter workload for now."
Zuko frowned at the request.
"Is something wrong?" Katara asked worriedly as she again turned to look at Jiao.
"No," Kuo quickly assured them.
"Then what is the reason for your request?" the Fire Lord asked.
Zuko and Katara watched as a blush stained Jiao's pale cheeks and Kuo puffed out his chest in pride.
"I'm pregnant," Jiao announced with a shy smile before she added, "I'm three months along and we didn't even know until a few days ago."
"Oh, Jiao, congratulations!" Katara exclaimed as she rose from her seat to grasp the woman's hands before she turned to smile at Kuo. "Congratulations, Kuo!"
"Thank you, my lady," Kuo responded with a small, joyful smile.
The three turned their attention back to the Fire Lord when he congratulated them from his spot behind the large desk. When he caught his waterbender's pointed look, he cleared his throat.
"Because of both your loyal services I will concede to your wishes," Zuko told them before he looked at Jiao. "If you wish it you can focus on easy things before becoming my wife's lady companion when it becomes more difficult later on in your pregnancy."
"Thank you, my lord," they both said in unison as they bowed respectfully before they smiled at the blue-eyed woman. They knew their Fire Lady was a large factor that helped convince the Fire Lord to grant their request.
After a few more congratulations and curious questions from Katara, the young couple once again bowed in gratitude before they departed. Once the door was closed behind them, the waterbender sat back down with a smile on her face.
"At least there are some good things among the bad," she commented with a soft sigh as she looked at him.
Zuko nodded at her words before he stopped when a thought crossed his mind. He gazed at her for a short moment and watched as she looked at him wonderingly at his silence.
"Your sacrifice was worth it," he spoke up quietly.
When she frowned at him incomprehensibly, he gave her a small, proud smile.
"If you had not listened to Jianguo's demand, not only would Jiao have been harmed, but her unborn child, too," he explained softly.
Katara's eyes widened at the thought. If she had refused to follow Jianguo's orders, the rebels would have raped and tortured Jiao. The abuse might have caused Jiao to lose her baby as well as her own life. Katara would not have been able to live with herself if she had been the cause of Jiao losing her child. The truth of such a thought made her make peace with what happened and brought her confidence back in herself. Jianguo might have hurt her, he might have almost succeeded in violating her, but she had been strong enough to save two innocent lives. And now she was more determined than ever to learn how to defend herself so she would not put others and herself at risk.
"You're right," she finally replied and she smiled brightly at him.
At the sight of her smile, a true one and not one that was forced, Zuko felt relief once again consume him. They may have gone through a tough time, Katara especially, but now he was convinced that everything would be better.
"Jiao and Kuo seem very happy with the news of their upcoming parenthood," Zuko remarked as he smiled at her.
"They are," Katara agreed.
Her genuine smile faded and was replaced with a frown. Kuo and Jiao's news reminded her that her monthly bleeding had ended the previous week, signifying another month in which she had not gotten pregnant yet. Why? She had taken Yin-Min's herbs regularly. Why had she still not gotten with child?
"What's wrong, love?" Zuko asked worriedly when he noticed her happy mood suddenly change.
"It's nothing," Katara quickly assured him as she tried to give him a reassuring smile.
"Please don't lie to me, Katara," he told her with a frustrated frown.
Averting her eyes, Katara fidgeted with her hands before she let out a small sigh.
"Their news just reminded me that I haven't given you an heir yet," she confessed quietly.
The firebender was silent a moment as he stared at her.
"Come here, Katara," Zuko commanded gently.
Katara looked at him and watched as he opened his arms for her. She quickly stood up and walked around the large desk before sitting sideways on his lap, winding her arms around his neck. Zuko wrapped his arm around her and pressed her close to him. He leaned his head down to touch his lips to her head before he tucked it under his chin.
"Maybe it is for the best," he began softly, "Who knows what could have happened if you were pregnant when…everything happened."
Katara was silent for a moment as his words sunk in before she relaxed into his comforting and warm embrace.
"You're right, Zuko," she responded.
She felt him lift his head and she looked up into his reassuring, golden eyes. He reached a hand up and caressed her cheek with the back of his fingers before he smiled at her.
"Besides, we've been married for a little over two months," he reminded her, "We still have plenty of time to have a child."
Katara felt her heart ease a little at his words and she smiled at him.
"That's true," she relented before she excitedly added, "I just can't wait to have our child in my arms."
"And we will one of these days," he assured her with a smirk, which widened when Katara grinned at him.
Expression softening, Zuko leaned down and kissed her softly. Katara sighed into his mouth and wrapped her arms tighter around his neck as she pressed herself closer to him. They shared slow and tender kisses before the firebender pulled away. They gazed silently into each other's eyes for a moment before Zuko broke the sudden comforting spell that had befallen them.
"We will start your training tomorrow," he informed her, his expression turning serious.
Katara's eyes blazed with determination.
"I'll be ready," she said firmly.
"Very good, Katara," Zuko praised as Katara deflected his strike with an upright thrust of her arm. "Remember to strike back aggressively, quickly and with as much force as you can to defend yourself."
When Katara moved her arm to strike his face, Zuko grasped her arm to stop her. However, Katara twisted out of his grip and struck out with a raised knee. Zuko had barely enough time to jump back before getting hit on his stomach. Panting, he nodded approvingly and Katara smiled even as she quickly assumed a fighting stance and awaited his next move.
A week had passed since Zuko began Katara's lessons in hand-to-hand combat. It was early in the morning and they were currently training in the large arena. Off to the side, Iroh sat on a bench watching silently or occasionally pointing out things and giving advice. He was proud to see his nephew teaching Katara the way Iroh had taught Zuko when he was younger. The old man was also happy to see that his niece-in-law had bravely pulled herself out of her fear and was determined to become stronger.
Although Katara needed a lot of practice and time before she could become truly skillful in the art, Zuko was proud to admit that she was a fast and avid learner. Her waterbending skills leant much help in her agility. He was sure that in a couple of years she would reach his high level, but for now the basics will help her enough to keep her safe from anyone who tried to attack her if she were unable to use her waterbending. Although he admitted that Katara made a good point in arguing that they cannot be sure what the future might bring despite their precautions, Zuko was determined that he would do everything he could to protect her.
"Good," Zuko called out a few minutes later before he straightened from his fighting stance.
Panting, Katara imitated his actions and waited to see what he would teach her next. She had never bothered in learning close combat nor had it appeal to her because she had emphasized much of her fighting power in her waterbending. But as Zuko continued to teach her, she found that it was exhilarating, though perhaps a little too violent for her. But it would help her greatly if she ever found herself unable to waterbend—though she hoped she would never find herself in such a situation again. To be able to defend herself another way would reassure her greatly.
"Now I'll teach you some of the most familiar pressure points," Zuko began as he walked forward to stand closer in front of her.
Katara nodded as she paid close attention.
"The human body has many different points that can cause a great deal of pain when hit appropriately," Zuko instructed. "Hitting your opponent's eyes is not only very painful, but it can temporarily damage his vision, giving you time to escape." He demonstrated by grabbing her arm and showing her how to strike. "Landing a blow squarely on the forehead with sufficient pressure can knock your attacker's head back and cause whiplash." He again showed her how to move and where to hit. "Punching the nose with great strength can lead to a fracture and bleeding. Striking the collarbone with enough force can break it, thus incapacitating your opponent entirely. A hard kick to the knee or groin is usually enough to bring your attacker down."
They spent a few more minutes practicing before Zuko finally called an end to it. Relaxing, Katara smiled at her husband confidently, already anticipating her next lesson. They walked back to the bench where Iroh was sitting and drank water from the cups the servants rushed forward to give them. As Katara quenched her thirst, her eyes again focused on Zuko's profile. His hair, which was now long enough to reach his shoulders, was pulled up into a high ponytail at the moment. A light sheen of perspiration clung to his temples and neck, reminding her of the same sight when they were striving to achieve their pleasurable climaxes. Zuko caught her eye, and knowing what she was thinking, a small smirk curled his lips.
"You are doing wonderful, my dear," Iroh praised as he smiled at Katara, effectively bringing the couple out of their naughty thoughts.
"Thank you, Uncle Iroh," the waterbender replied happily.
"Have you given thought to learning how to wield a weapon?" the old man asked musingly. "Hand-to-hand combat will help you fight in a close range, which can become a problem if your attacker is stronger and more skillful. With a weapon you can defend yourself at a safer distance."
Katara frowned at the thought as she hesitated to answer.
"I don't know," she replied with a grimace, "I can't bring myself to use a weapon to harm or kill anyone."
She looked up when Zuko laid a firm hand on her shoulder.
"You will have to, if it means your life against your attacker's," he told her grimly, "If you hesitate in bringing him down, he will hurt you and…kill you. He would surely not care in sparing your life."
"I know," Katara responded with a sigh.
Zuko frowned.
"You should take some time to think about it, my dear," Iroh spoke up. He completely agreed with his nephew that Katara should learn to use a weapon so she could be better protected. "Perhaps you can discuss this with your husband later when you are more adept in close combat."
Katara nodded since she knew both of them were right. She just needed time to get used to the idea. Her waterbending defeated many assailants, but it did not actually cause any great harm or threatened any lives. But if she actually used a weapon against anybody she would not only hurt them but would directly end their lives as well. It was not something she would be able to easily do considering she was a healer who fought to save lives. Yet, she also understood that if it came to protecting someone she cared for and herself, she would have no choice.
"I will think about it," she replied.
"Good," Iroh said with a smile. They both glanced toward Zuko when he cleared his throat.
"I may not be able to train you every day, Katara, so I asked Uncle if he could help you when I can't," Zuko informed her.
"I understand," she told with a reassuring smile. "I trust Uncle will teach me many things."
Zuko nodded before he carefully asked, "I also wanted to ask if you wouldn't mind if Admiral Jee trained you in developing your strength. He is the only one I trust for such a job."
Katara stiffened at the suggestion before she ordered herself to relax. She needed to get rid of this sudden fear of men. Jee was not a bad person and not all men were malevolent like Jianguo. She had promised herself that she would become stronger and she could not always depend on Zuko to come save her. She had been fine defending herself without him before and she would do so again. Besides, she did not want Zuko to ever be hurt because he was protecting her.
"Alright," she agreed firmly.
If Zuko was surprised at her answer, he did not show it.
"Good. I'll ask Jee when I see him today," he said.
Katara nodded before she smiled at Zuko then at Iroh who reassured her that Jee would be a great instructor when Zuko was not around.
"How about a sparring match using our bending?" the Fire Lord challenged Katara with a smirk.
"You're on," the waterbender replied with a grin as she quickly grabbed the waterskin she had placed on the bench and tied it to her waist.
Smiling, Iroh watched as his nephew and his niece-in-law took on their stances. When it came to her waterbending, Katara was an admirable warrior, equally as skillful as her husband.
As Zuko evaded one of her attacks, Katara smiled confidently. She would become stronger. She knew Zuko vowed that he would kill Jianguo when he found him and she would not stop him. But if Jianguo ever tried to kidnap her again, he would realize his mistake for underestimating her.
The loud crash of the wooden chair hitting the wall followed by vicious curses did not faze Chang while it made Ping flinch beside him as they watched their leader vent his anger at the room they had rented in an obscure tavern. They had stayed at the small lodgings with the money Jianguo had saved up from their informant and waited for Jianguo to heal from the wounds he had suffered in the hands of the enraged Fire Lord. They had made sure to keep to themselves so as not to raise any suspicions, but the wretched villagers barely paid them any mind. They had never seen Jianguo lose control of his temper so drastically before, it left them stunned. Ping took a step back when Jianguo flung the only small table in the room against the wall, but Chang remained still and emotionless as he waited for their leader to calm himself down.
Chang's mind wandered, not for the first time, to the woman that had accompanied the blue-eyed Fire Lady. Jiao was what the waterbender called her and he could not stop thinking about her. She resembled his beloved Aiko so much that he was left speechless and astounded when he laid eyes on her. Three years had passed since Aiko passed away from a malady of the lungs, an illness that caused her much pain until her last dying breath, a sickness he was unable to save her from. He had loved her so much that her death had numbed him completely, so much so that no other woman had been able to arouse anything from him except for the occasional, mild lust. But then this Jiao suddenly appeared in his life and emotions he thought long dead were beginning to awaken. He knew Jiao was not Aiko, but that did not stop him from wanting her all for himself, so much so that he fought the other rebels from touching her. For some strange reason he had decided to woo her during their journey to their hideout and make her come to care for him.
But to his surprise and anger it seemed she was already spoken for when her husband appeared and attacked him. Even though Jiao was already married, Chang had refused to give her up and fiercely attacked the firebender, hoping to kill him, but the man was too skilled. It was only after he realized that they were losing that Chang decided it was best he found Jianguo and retreated. With one last longing look aimed at the golden-eyed beauty, Chang had submerged himself into the ground and disappeared only to emerge again in another location to see the Fire Lord brutally attacking Jianguo. Chang and Ping rescued their leader before they again submerged themselves in the ground as their only route of escape. They would have succeeded in capturing the Fire Lady, have the Fire Lord meet their demands, and Jiao would have been his, if only Jianguo had not allowed his obsession and lust in having the waterbending woman take control of him.
"I was this close to getting my revenge and achieving our goal, but Zuko, that fucking bastard, had to ruin everything!" Jianguo growled as he kicked another chair out of his way.
"Da bastard was lucky," Ping spoke up in hopes to restore his leader's good humor, which he knew was not likely since Jianguo had been in a foul mood ever since the Fire Lord thwarted their attempts to kidnap the Fire Lady.
"We would have succeeded if you had heeded my advice to leave as soon as we had the waterbender," Chang spoke up as if Ping had not spoken. Ignoring the annoyed glare the large-jawed earthbender sent him, Chang stared levelly at Jianguo when the firebender slowly turned to look at him.
"What?" Jianguo asked angrily.
"If you would have waited a few more hours instead of insisting on having the woman at that moment, Zuko would not have come upon us and ruined our plan," Chang continued emotionlessly.
"Shut up!" the firebender growled.
"You know I am right," the former Dai Li agent stated evenly, his green eyes hinting at nothing.
"Get out!" Jianguo snarled as he picked up a vase and hurled it at the wall next to the tall earthbender.
Ping jumped at the impact before he scrambled toward the door, but Chang remained unmoving as the ceramic vase shattered into pieces behind him.
"The waterbending woman has addled your mind," Chang spoke up again, not at all afraid of the older man. "You would not have made such a mistake before."
"I told you to shut the hell up, Chang," Jianguo growled at him as his golden eyes narrowed into irritated slits.
Chang raised an eyebrow in challenge, but remained silent. Taking a deep breath, Jianguo tried to rein in his temper and regain his composure. He was glad that none of his other men were there to witness his rare display of temper. He, Chang, and Ping were the only ones to escape when Zuko and his companions had come upon them unexpectedly. One of his men would have survived if Jianguo had not ordered Ping to kill him before the man revealed anything to the Fire Lord. But dammit, he had been so close to achieving everything he wanted!
"Now we know what happened to our informant in the Fire Nation, so we must come up with a new plan," Jianguo said as he straightened out his shirt.
"Will you give up on the waterbender?" the green-eyed earthbender asked.
"No," was Jianguo's simple and firm response.
Chang frowned, but before he could say anything Jianguo turned away from him.
"Make sure you and Ping rest for we leave to our hideout tomorrow at dawn," he said dismissively.
"Very well," Chang replied passively as he turned toward the door and closed it lightly behind him.
Jianguo walked across the room to pick up his bottle of liquor from the old bureau resting against the wall. He paused when he caught sight of his reflection on the dirty mirror that hung above it. He felt his anger spike once again as he saw the fading bruises on his pale skin, bruises that insolent whelp had inflicted on him when Jianguo was about to enjoy the waterbender. With a growl, he smashed his fist into the mirror, creating cracks on its surface. Ignoring the sting of the glass cutting his flesh, he walked to the other side of the room.
Jianguo stared out the window into the dark night. He took a drink of the sweet liquor as his thoughts once again became lost in the memory of having the woman he was obsessing over trapped beneath him. He vowed that he would make Zuko suffer and have his revenge, but most importantly he vowed that he would capture the beautiful waterbender again. Now that he knew how incredible she felt, how sweet she smelled, how utterly erotic everything about her was by just having held her, he could not wait to find out how much more incredible it would be once he took her completely. He vowed to capture Katara again one day and she would be his, Zuko would suffer greatly, their plan would succeed, and this time Zuko would not be able to take her back.
A/N: Is Jianguo crazy or what?
Thank you again for reading and don't forget to let me know your thoughts!
~alwaysZutarian
