Blue Spirit Awakens

by CeCeHigganbotham

Zuko Sozin Azulon's life sucks...hard. His birthday up until almost the very end wasn't very happy. It takes the gift of an antique theatre mask and a letter from his recently dearly departed mother to help this day not to be a total loss. Zuko soon discovers there is more to the mask and himself as mysterious changes begin to occur in his life. ATLA A/U Zutara foreverrrrrrrrrrrr!

13. Chapter 13--When Spirits Attack

A/N: Oh My Gods! Y'all, when I started this story, I had no idea where I was going with it and what I set myself up for. I am absolutely loving every single moment of the journey though. This chapter has twenty-five "Samuel L. Jackson" pages (two tens and a five worth of story), over 19,300 words not including the author's note, and probably the most confusing web of drama, intrigue, action and shenanigans I have written to date! I could shed a tear right now… I promised you Painted Blue and you got' em. Don't think for a minute that this is not the beginning of shenanigans between Katara and Zuko. There will be shenanigans from here on out. Tell me what you think of all this. I swear there are so many moving parts I feel like I'm writing a clock instead of a story. . You probably are also getting more than you bargained for in addition to our dynamic duo. So, I told you I got the story sorted and I did, but to do that I had to perform a ritual rite to Cthulhu and sacrifice my first born (he didn't mind). Jokes, I have jokes! Seriously, I wanted to finish this chapter by Christmas as a little gift muffin to you, but at the time, unbeknownst to me, I was, um, like 10K words short so here we are… three days later… I also lost my nose stud in my sleep and planned a trip to the UK in between pages so there's that as well. I'll let you know more about my trip as it gets closer. I'm beginning to think this is the rescue story no one asked for but Azula really needs. Of course, your mileage may vary on that. We've got Detective Jiang Action ™. Ozai is still featured on the Who's Who of Bastard Villains. Mai and Ty Lee get to be a friend in their own way to Azula, and I like Poppy Bei Fong. I feel like she's a secret badass. Just like Katara. Sokka is going to have some problems as a result of "Detective" Hakoda style interrogation and the story is moving along merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily...

Disclaimer: Nope, Nope, Nope. But you should read it anyway...

Chapter 13—When Spirits Attack

"You're back." Zuko grunted tiredly as the front door opened. He was sitting on the couch earlier that evening and found himself stretched out when Hakoda and Sokka returned. Zuko didn't remember falling asleep. He looked up just in time to notice Sokka's downcast face and looked at him questioningly. Hakoda's face was dour and stern when he walked past. He mumbled a hasty good night to Zuko and Sokka and continued down the hallway to his room shutting the door quickly. Before Zuko could speak, Sokka put up his hand to signal for him to wait and he went to his room without a word. Zuko looked around bewildered wondering what could have happened to shift the mood so soon after his reunion with his sister.

Ten minutes later Sokka returned to the living room with little less angst and more comfortable clothes. "Are you ready to talk now?" Zuko asked. Sokka sighed deeply groaning as he flopped over the arm rest of the sofa. He whined into a decorative pillow and kicked his feet like scissors back and forth. Zuko raised an eyebrow and waited. Sokka pulled himself up slowly and slumped on the couch next to Zuko. He said two words that would change the rest of his life and relationship with Suki. "Dad knows…" Zuko looked at Sokka for a while before the realization hit him and his eye widened. Oh. Hakoda found out about Sokka and Suki's physical "relationthing" they had going on. It was only a matter of time anyway. You can't hide much from "Detective" Hakoda…

"Wow. That's rough buddy." Zuko said without a hint of sarcasm. Sokka looked as though he would burst into tears at any moment. His eyes were bloodshot and shiny with unshed water. He didn't dare look Zuko in the face. Sokka's voice cracked. "I might not get to see her anymore. Dad is going to talk with her parents tomorrow." Zuko's mouth hung open. "Damn. That's really…I'm sorry bro." Zuko was genuinely sorry for his friend who really was more like a brother to him. He knew how much Sokka loved Suki and to be forced apart would be akin to killing them. This felt very Romeo and Juliet-esque. Zuko wondered briefly if he should talk to Hakoda about it. He reconsidered immediately when he remembered that he loves Hakoda's daughter, and bringing up Sokka may make Hakoda question Zuko. He didn't want to ruin anything for himself by bringing Sokka's situation up. Sometimes things must run their course. Zuko realized then that a change of topic may be in order, but not before trying to offer his friend some encouragement.

"Sokka, you don't know how things are going to turn out tomorrow, but keep in mind that the two of you have been together for three years and maybe it's not a breakup you need, but rules and boundaries for your relationship. You're smart buddy. You can find a way to fix this. Don't give up hope yet." Sokka looked at Zuko as if he had never seen him before. He knew what his friend said made sense, but it seemed like a daunting and impossible task. Yet, he didn't want to lose Suki. He was willing to fight for her and do what needed to be done, but the question was how. "I'll think about it Zuko. Thanks for saying that. You really are a good friend." He said morosely.

Zuko nodded. "I'm only returning the favor, bro. I do have something I want to share something with you. We never really talked much about what happened on my birthday, but I think now is as good a time as any." Sokka looked up sharply and gave Zuko his full attention. They never had an opportunity to discuss how Zuko became Atka Tungortok and what happened between him and Mo Zhou the night Katara was attacked. At least not in detail. This information would be useful in helping the team to implement their plans to save Ba Sing Se. Plus, this conversation would be a much-needed distraction.

As Zuko began his story about the mask, Sokka's eyes widened with amazement and curiosity. Though he was reluctant to believe in all the spiritual mumbo jumbo as he called it, he couldn't deny what he heard from his sister about that night and what Zuko himself shared. Sokka asked to see the mask and Zuko went quietly to get it from his backpack. "Can I try it on?" Sokka asked. Zuko shrugged and passed the mask on to Sokka. Sokka looked closely at the mask and examined it inside and out. There was nothing unusual about it nor did he get any strange feelings from it. Sokka placed the mask on his face. Nothing. Sokka kept the mask on for a minute longer to see if maybe there was a delayed reaction and eventually gave the mask to Zuko shrugging doubtfully. "I don't know buddy. It's not that I don't believe you but it's not working for me."

"Zuko looked at the mask. The same familiarity and pull were there from the very first day he received the mask. Zuko gave a tiny lopsided smile. "I don't think it's supposed to work for everyone." He said. My mother told me in her letter that the mask was for the champion that I am. I don't really know what she meant by that, but maybe it chose me? I haven't put the mask back on since the first time because there was just so much happening in the vision. I don't just see the vision. I feel it. I live it. It's like—it's like it's a memory." He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, "I threw the mask across the room when I saw fire at the end." Sokka raised an eyebrow curiously. "You saw fire? Like a camp fire? Or was it more like a forest fire?" Zuko thought about it. "No…it was like… I was watching someone bend fire. I didn't realize it before because I had never really seen fire bending prior to doing it myself, but now…thinking back it felt familiar… huh."

Sokka tapped his jaw deep in thought. "I think you should put the mask back on." Zuko sat up quickly. "I don't think that's a good idea. You don't understand…I don't just see stuff. I—I'm experiencing it. It gets so intense." Zuko shuddered as he remembered the anger and despair from his first vision. Sokka put his hand on Zuko's shoulder to calm his friend and continued. "Think about it, bro. You've been having snippets of whatever you want to call this and these weird déjà vu moments ever since you first tried it on. I think you need to wear the mask and watch the vision it gives you until you get the whole picture. Maybe the mask will help you find the missing pieces and help you understand what you're supposed to do." Zuko considered what his friend said. Sokka often made suggestions that seemed outrageous at first, but in the end would be brilliant. Zuko took a deep breath. He sighed. "Ok. I'll do it, but it doesn't mean I really want to…" Sokka chuckled, "You know the things worth doing are also usually the hardest. Try to ride out the vision. There's a good chance you're going to find the answers you need." Zuko nodded and thought to himself Sokka was going to need that advice about the things worth doing for tomorrow. But for now, Zuko needed to get to the bottom of this mystery, and he wasn't going to do it sitting around and wondering.

Zuko ran a hard hand down his face. He remembered the overwhelming emotions he felt while wearing the mask. What if he had an outburst? What if he saw something he couldn't control? What if he panicked or firebent? There were too many variables, but when he looked over at his friend, Zuko knew he wasn't getting out of it that easily. Sokka saw the doubt on his face and asked, "You good bro? It may not be as bad as you think it's going to be. You're better prepared, right?" Zuko took a deep breath and nodded. OK, sure. No time like the present. Sokka gave him an encouraging thumbs up and cheesy grin. Zuko looked uncertain but picked up the mask. He looked into the impassive yet expressive features of the mask with its deep dark eye holes and felt the familiar pull. He placed the mask on his face and tried to keep his breathing low and even. Within moments images and voices flashed through his mind.

"Who are you, Prince Zuko? And what do you want? It is time to look inside of yourself and find your own destiny!" a familiar voice implored. Uncle Iroh? Who is he talking to? Zuko wondered. Zuko felt the anger and frustration of the masked person. The mask and two broadswords clattered to the ground. A decision. The vision continued and Zuko watched as the blue mask of Atka Tungortok sunk slowly into the water of an underground lake. As he peered over into the darkened water, he saw…no, wait, what? He saw himself! Or someone who looked like him. This Zuko's demeanor was hardened and more severe. His dark hair was shorter too, but his golden eyes and prominent scar were unmistakable. How was this possible? Zuko quickened his breathing on the verge of a panic attack. Sokka placed a hand on Zuko's shoulder once again and spoke low and evenly. He didn't need Zuko hyperventilating at a time like this. "Breathe buddy. That's it. Take it slow. You've gotta calm down. It's just a vision." Zuko faintly registered a voice telling him to stay calm. Though he gripped the mask tightly on its sides, he didn't take it off. He slowed his pace and his breathing evened out.

A fever. Nightmares of fire. A change. The vision sped along. "We have been invited by the Earth King to serve tea in the palace!" Uncle Iroh exclaimed. The vision Zuko uncharacteristically congratulated his uncle. He was proud of the success and the outlook for the future. "I'm so happy for you uncle! You deserve it." he said with a sincere smile as he moved on to continue serving tea. A messenger arrived with transportation. A wagon ride to the Earth Palace… A trap. Azula, Mai and Ty Lee dressed as warriors? A very short fight with agents dressed in green robes and straw hats. Zuko was captured. A cavern with glowing green crystals became his prison. He's not alone. A strangely familiar girl from the Water tribes began railing accusations at him her cobalt eyes intense and angry. "You don't know anything peasant! He retorted. More anger. "The Fire Nation took my mother away from me!" The waterbender shouted vehemently. Zuko sobered quickly and replied, "That's something we have in common." An apology. An offer. A chance at redemption. The pull between what could be and what he thought he always wanted.

An explosion. Uncle and the boy with the tattoos from the fortress worked together. He called him the Avatar. Shock. Anger. "It's time we had a talk, Zuko." As Iroh pulled Zuko to the side, Uncle became encased in green crystals. Azula appeared. A proposition. Another decision. A fight. The boy with arrows glowed and floated up in the cavern powerful and frightening. Lightning. He fell. Dead? Fury. Regret. Betrayal. Escape. Betrayal. Betrayal… A Royal homecoming. His father's acceptance. His uncle's disappointment. A late-night history lesson in the dragon catacombs. The victory and fulfillment he thought he would feel was short lived. A choice. Resolve. For him, there was no satisfaction here. He knew now what he had to do. The vision ended.

Zuko removed the mask his hands trembling slightly. He strained his eyes against the low light in the living room and he blinked to adjust his eyesight. Sokka looked concerned as he watched his friend come out of the daze he was in. Zuko sat silently his brows furrowed with thought with only the sound of his shaky breathing filling the silence. Sokka asked quietly, "What is it, Zuko? What happened?" Zuko blinked a few times and shook his head to clear it, "I need to speak with my Uncle…"

It was nearly 4:00 in the morning when Zuko and Sokka went to bed, but Zuko determined to speak with his uncle as soon as he woke up. He could not let the vision go unexplained. There was a real connection between himself and this Prince Zuko from his vision and he needed to know what it was.

oooo000000oooo

Early the next morning Tophia got up from her bed and allowed her friends to sleep in while she went to speak to her parents about her new idea. It was so counterintuitive for her to approach her parents, but she reminded herself that she wasn't doing it for herself but for Azula. She couldn't let Azula fall victim to Ozai's crazy and Tophia determined that any discomfort on her part would be a light inconvenience compared to what could happen to Azula if she didn't find a way to help her.

"Good Morning Mother, Daddy" Tophia chirped as she walked into the dining room where she knew her parents were already up and talking over a morning cup of tea. Lao stood as she entered and smiled widely. "Good Morning my princess! How is your sleepover? Are you having an enjoyable time with your friends?" Tophia cringed only slightly at his attempt to be cordial and gave him a syrupy smile, "Yes, Daddy. My friends are still sleeping, but I am having a great time with them. In fact, I came down early because I wanted to speak with you both about something… privately. Lao and Poppy Bei Fong gave one another a strange look. Tophia picked up on their heartbeats and knew she had their attentions.

Tophia took a deep breath as though what she had to say was of the utmost importance and required all her courage. "Well Mother, Daddy, I was thinking about how we know so many people who admire and respect our family. I mean we host one of the biggest events of the year which is always packed, but I don't really have many close friends or people that I associate with on a regular basis." She paused here for effect. Their heart rates were still slightly elevated, and she spoke slowly as if building up her courage to continue. "Mother, I admit that I haven't always tried to listen to you about how to conduct myself as a young lady of society and I want to change that." Poppy Bei Fong was all ears. She held her hand to her chest for support.

Tophia sighed again, to emphasize her effort. Last night, speaking with Katara, Azula and Suki really drove home the importance of having and making good connections and positive relationships. I'd really like to start with them and with you." Lao and Poppy's eyes widened in shock. Tophie wants to make connections? To be more social? Friendly? As Tophia felt for their heartrates she knew that she had them hooked. Poppy Bei Fong blinked rapidly as if to check if she were dreaming. She stammered a little. "Tophie, y-you want to become more involved with what I do? Socially? You seriously want to become more involved with my work…"

Tophia smiled shyly and looked in her mother's direction to seal the deal. "Yes, I know it seems so strange that I would want to make more friends now, but I guess as I get older, I realize that it's not really what you know in this world it truly is who you know and how you use your influence. I would like to use that influence for good." Poppy Bei Fong wiped a sneaky tear from her eye and with a watery smile crossed the dining room and embraced her daughter. Neither Poppy nor Lao saw the smug grin on Tophia's face as she buried herself in her mother's shoulder.

Lao grinned from ear to ear as he watched the exchange between his wife and daughter. He made a mental note to mention to Ozai how he would like for Azula to spend more time with his daughter. His daughter's influence was something much to be desired and would show good faith in their working relationship. Lao was already secure in the friendship his daughter shared with Hakoda's daughter. He felt like things were finally coming together for his plans to move forward. If his daughter and her friends could help to influence some of the more reluctant partners there would be nothing stopping him from sealing his position as the most influential businessman in the world.

Tophia brought her parents back to focus. "Mother how about I go wake my friends for breakfast and maybe you and Daddy could join us? I would love for you to get to know my friends better and perhaps we can brainstorm ideas on how we could work together to bring the families of the upper and middle rings together." Her parents stood dumbfounded at the change of heart their daughter exhibited. Poppy and Lao were thrilled about it, if somewhat confused, but Lao ordered a delicious spread to be made for his daughter and her friends. "May I be excused? Tophia asked. Her parents enthusiastically released her to go and Tophia grinned like the Mad Hatter as she made her way back up to her bedroom to tell the other girls the good news.

As she opened the door to her bedroom, Suki was wailing in the throes of misery while Katara and Azula desperately tried to console her. "I can't lose him! I love Sokka! I love him so much…" Suki lamented, flopping over Tophia's bed and her wailing began anew. It only took Tophia a moment to realize what Suki was referring to, but she was never one to ignore an opportunity to swear like a sailor. "What in the actual gods-forsaken fuck is going on in here? I leave you guys for one goddamned minute to talk to my parents and fan-girl over here is having a muthafuckin' breakdown? What-the-fucks?" Tophia threw her hands up in exasperation. Azula sat like a deer in headlights with her mouth turned up in a sneer of confusion at the sheer volume and vehemence of swear words coming out of her "friend's" mouth. She looked to Katara with her mouth agape in shock. Katara just rolled her eyes in exasperation and mouthed "I know, I know."

Katara then scuttled across the floor quickly to shut and lock the door. She shushed Tophia and whispered. "Sokka texted Suki this morning. Dad found out about Sokka and Suki's "relationthing" last night and now he's talking to Suki's parents." Oh, no. Tophia thought. That's not good for plans. "Fuck…fuck." She swore aloud just to get one more in for good measure. "Well that's just the worst because my parents are expecting us downstairs in about thirty minutes so that we can all have breakfast with them and discuss my "plans" for the young ladies of society. Suki, listen to me: it's all going to work out. You guys just need some boundaries and rules for your relationship. It'll work out. I'm sure of it." Tophia said matter of factly. "Right now; however, I need you to find it in your warrior's heart to get your ass in gear and woman up so that we can talk to my parents or there will be worse things happening than you not getting Sokka's willy for a while!"

Suki looked a haggard mix between shocked at Tophia's bluntness and relieved that someone was talking her down off her emotional ledge finally. She sighed wearily, "Ok, what do we need to do? You're right. This mess is our own fault and We'll be OK. Azula needs us. I'm…I'm going to take a shower now…" As Suki walked into the en suite bathroom and shut the door, Tophia and the others breathed an audible sigh of relief. Tophia whispered, "Their relationship is as good as dead. Suki's parents will probably move out of Ba Sing Se after this." Katara punched Tophia in the arm and whispered harshly, "Don't say things like that! It's not going to help and there's still a chance they can work it out, right Azula?" Azula looked around the room avoiding eye contact. "Azula!" Katara whisper-shouted. Azula stopped and looked Katara in the eye. "Look, let's all be honest. There's a pretty good chance it's over for them, but we need Suki on her A-game, so let's just leave it alone and hope for the best while knowing the inevitable. Sorry Kat." Azula apologized without the least bit of remorse. Katara glared at Azula but with none of the fire behind it. She too knew what was inevitable.

The girls dressed and made their way down to the expansive dining room where china was set for each of them and a delicious spread was prepared: eggs benedict with lobster and crab, a refined version of a swamp bender delicacy called shrimp and "grits" with its creamy porridge like consistency and well-seasoned prawns, cow-pig kielbasa, vegetable frittata, pastries and fruits in abundance and variety, and mock mimosas for the young ladies. "This looks delicious!" the girls all exclaimed. Tophia remarked sweetly, "Mother, everything smells divine! Thank you for doing this." Poppy Bei Fong beamed with delight at their pleasure. "Only the best for my Tophie! Well ladies this is all prepared for you please sit and enjoy the meal. As the girls sat one by one, Katara encouraged Tophia to sit closer to her mother. Tophia wanted to resist, but she knew that for her spiel to be believable she would have to make some sacrifices. With that, she sat in the seat next to her mother and smiled. Poppy thought she would faint with ecstasy. Her daughter wanted to sit next to her? She pinched herself to ensure she really wasn't dreaming.

As the girls ate and complimented the meal, Tophia thought of how to broach the subject of what she wanted to do with her parents. Her father sensing she had something to say, mentioned it first. "Tophia love, I'm interested in hearing what it was you wanted to do based on our conversation earlier. Are you ready to talk about it now?" Tophia gave her father a smile of gratefulness at his perception and nodded. "Yes, I would Daddy. I have been thinking about all of the work Mother does with the High Society Ladies Club and how they plan events in the greater Ba Sing Se area." She paused to collect her thoughts. "Well, although the ladies' society is open to all women of status and bearing, most of its members are well, no offense Mother, older and not as current as say your more youthful contemporaries." Poppy Bei Fong smirked at this, "Oh, just say it: it's full of rich old ladies!" At this, Tophia and the other girls giggled. Not wanting to lose momentum Tophia continued, "I realized one reason for this is that the girls of society don't feel that they can relate to the "rich old ladies" and the causes and concerns they care about. I think that we should create a Junior chapter of the High Society Ladies Club and not call it that. We could find causes to champion that make us feel good and benefit others in ways your club can't. Katara, Azula, and Suki all spoke up at once. "Oh, that's a great idea!" Suki exclaimed. "It would give us a chance to make a real impact in society." Katara added. "I would certainly like to be a part of it." Azula finished sincerely.

Poppy looked at the girls thoughtfully. "There's a lot of work involved with running a legitimate club." Poppy suggested. Katara spoke up then. "We're no strangers to work, Mrs. Bei Fong. I help my father plan community events and I complete paperwork for our tribe all the time. Azula also has experience in planning school functions and events as well, right?" Azula nodded. "Yes, as student body president I do have to coordinate and plan school events like prom and homecoming." Poppy frowned. "How is that possible? You're just a freshman and you're only what 14?" It was Azula's turn to smirk. "I'm actually an advanced freshman, I skipped some classes. Sometimes it is in who you know. Influence can be a powerful tool to move people. Plus, I just have a way with the masses…" she beamed without a hint of sarcasm. Poppy raised an eyebrow. Well she's Ozai's daughter, no doubt, but it looks like she uses her powers for good mostly. She thought. She hoped that the initial negative impression she received of the Azulon girl was false. If rumors were to be believed, Azula was not given the most glowing reviews from her peers and some adults as well. But Poppy was not one to judge without enough evidence. She would give the young lady an opportunity to prove herself. If Tophie sees some good in Azula, then it must be there.

After breakfast Poppy pulls her daughter aside to voice some concerns out of earshot of the others. "Tophie, I don't doubt what you are trying to do. I am absolutely thrilled that you are taking this step to do something productive outside of school." Tophia raised her head. "But?" Poppy sighed, "but, are you sure about the Azulon girl? I mean your friendship seems so sudden and odd. I don't remember your mentioning her previously. I don't want you being manipulated into doing anything you don't want to do." Tophia would have blown up at what she would have considered intrusion normally, but this time she had to assure her mother that Azula was trustworthy. Still she was touched by her mother's concern and surprised at her perceptiveness. Well, Tophia had to get it from somewhere she figured. "I appreciate your concern Mother, and truthfully we didn't start out as friends, you know. Azula and I share some classes together, but what gave us the chance to become friends was a mutual understanding. We both have influential parents and we both sort of grew on each other out of a respect for what our parents do. Plus, Azula is also a lot of fun to be around once you get to know her. I'm hoping that our friendship could spark opportunities for us to do some real good around Ba Sing Se. Do you trust me Mom?"

She hoped by intermingling the truth with her explanation that her mother would be less suspicious of Azula and give her the green light. Calling her Mom couldn't hurt either. Poppy sighed audibly. "Of course, I trust you Tophie! You are one of the most genuine people I know and if you think Azula is OK, then who am I to say otherwise? Katara seems to think so too and I know she's a good judge of character as well. If I think there are any shenanigans going on with Azula, however…" Tophie didn't let her finish. "I got it Mom. She's good, I promise." Poppy pulled her daughter into another hug. "I just want what's best for you, but you're also growing up so fast. It's hard to find the balance sometimes. Tophia relaxed in her mother's arms. "Yeah, it is…" she whispered.

Lao was thoughtful as he rode along with the girls to their respective homes. He wanted to speak to each of their parents personally and thank them for giving his daughter such a fun opportunity. He also wanted to make sure he spoke to Ozai about Azula and his thoughts about how they could have a more beneficial relationship through their children. He too, like his wife, wondered how a friendship between Azula and his daughter developed, but he only had to see how they talked and bantered back and forth to know that they had the markings of a genuine friendship. Sometimes friendships develop out of the unlikeliest of circumstances he mused. This friendship with Azula could prove to be beneficial for both Tophia and himself. Time would tell after all.

oooo000000oooo

On the other side of town, the prison hallway echoed with the sounds of moaning, the scraping drone of something dragging across the floor, clacking heels and shuffling shoes. Shouts of anger and rioting could be heard in the background as the young man was being hurried out of the courtyard to the infirmary. He was barely conscious and struggling to breathe on his own. The guards knew the men were not trying to rough him up as sometimes happened to prisoners. They were trying to take his life. Ever since he confessed to the murder of Mo Zhou one faction within the prison or another would start a fight and beat him within moments of his life. The young man was barely an adult and why he would confess to something so horrid and damning gave the guards and the warden pause, but his confession was backed up by both motive and opportunity. He had all the right information to corroborate his story. He must be the killer they all supposed. Why would anyone confess to a murder they didn't commit?

As the prisoner lay on the gurney, the doctors worked furiously to stem the bleeding from a head wound and several other open wounds caused by "unidentifiable objects" more than likely shanks created from plastic utensils or newspapers or other objects that could be smuggled and sharpened in the privacy of their cells. Tempers and emotions in the prison flared to a fever pitch recently because the trial of the murderer of Mo Zhou was about to begin.

oooo000000oooo

Mr. Bei Fong took it upon himself to personally escort the young ladies home along with his daughter. He first dropped off Suki who was unusually subdued, but he attributed her quiet to having had a large brunch and from being tired from their "slumber party." Why do people call it a slumber party when ideally the point is not to sleep at all? He wondered. Perhaps it is just another one of those teenage mysteries that is best not to question. He dropped Katara off next. Hakoda smiled widely at his daughter as she walked in the house and he gave a friendly wave to Lao. Lao promised that he would call him to set up dinner with the family soon. That left Azula, Tophia and Lao. Lao saved taking Azula home last because he wanted to make sure he caught Ozai and took his time to share his thoughts.

As they pulled up to the circular drive of the expansive manor, Tophia grabbed Azula's hand and gave it a squeeze. She felt Azula's heartrate begin to race and her breathing intensify just slightly. Not enough for Lao Bei Fong to notice but enough for her. Tophia knew Azula was afraid. She turned her head in Azula's direction in the hopes Azula would remember to trust her. Azula squeezed her hand back and tried to regulate her breathing to normal. She didn't want to raise any suspicions with Lao and she wanted Tophia to know that she does trust her. She just doesn't trust her father.

"Mr. Bei Fong, thank you so much for ha—" She stopped mid-sentence as Lao put his car in park and turned off the ignition. Lao turned to the back and smiled and said "You're most welcome, Azula. Thank you for being such a cordial and perfect guest. Ah, if you don't mind, I would like to speak to your father about something while you and my daughter spend a few more moments together. Is that alright with you?" Azula shook herself out of shock. "Oh, of course Mr. Bei Fong. I don't mind at all. I was surprised that you were stopping. I thought you were just going to drop me off. Of course, that's not a problem." Tophia noticed her heartrate spike again and interjected, "Hey, I want to see your room! Is it all pink and girly like I expect it to be?" Azula rolled her eyes, "Of course it is Tophia! I also have unicorns and rainbows in abundance. Are you ready to experience the wonder that is my room?" Tophia giggled. "Lead the way Sparkles! I can't wait…"

Azula mouthed the word "Sparkles?" as they made their way up the stairs leading to the front door. Azula tried the handle but it was locked. "That's strange. The door is locked. Surely Father was expecting me to return today." She rummaged through her clutch. "Ah, I don't have my key…" Lao looked curiously. "That is strange. I just called to see if Ozai was home and he said he was. I informed him that I was coming to drop you off. Try the doorbell." Lao suggested. Azula gave an indistinct grunt and rang the doorbell. With in seconds, Ozai whipped the door open with his mouth poised to yell at Azula, until he saw Lao and the little blind girl with him. He was wearing a partially open robe and house shoes and not much else. A cigar was in one hand and a crystal glass with a generous supply of amber liquid in the other. Ozai looked haggard as if he hadn't slept all night. Perhaps he hadn't. "Oh, Lao! Little Miss Bei Fong! W-what a surprise…" He stammered. Lao raised an eyebrow at the man who was supposed to be his partner and frowned disapprovingly. "I hope we haven't interrupted anything, Councilman. I wanted to speak with you about your daughter. Do you have a moment? Or is now not a good time?"

Already embarrassed for being caught out of sorts, Ozai didn't dare put off talking to Lao. He knew he had been on thin ice with him for a while. He couldn't afford another misstep. Whatever would bring Lao to the door was obviously important enough to talk about now. "Uh, no. Um, now would be just fine. If you don't mind, why don't I take you to the study? I'll, uh, put on something more appropriate." He cleared his throat. Ozai looked over at his daughter imploringly, "Azula, why don't you take your friend up to your room for a while?" Azula nodded obediently and escorted Tophia up to her room while also escorting Mr. Bei Fong to her father's study.

As she left Mr. Bei Fong there after inquiring if he would like a beverage, Lao declined kindly, but mentally remarked on her poise and maturity in contrast to her father who made a mad dash to his bedroom to "put on something appropriate." It was moments like these that made him grateful his daughter was blind. Poor Azula was mortified at the sight of her father indisposed. He was quite sure he heard the clicking of heels out of a side door leading out of the house. Lao was beginning to get a clearer picture of why perhaps people were so quick to judge Azula Azulon so harshly. She was a victim of circumstance. Oftentimes children are caught in the fog of their parents' shame and failings as well as expectations and on rare occasions, successes. It was becoming much more apparent which fog Azula was caught in unfortunately. Lao Bei Fong smiled warmly. "Thank you Azula. I won't hold your father long." Azula bowed slightly and took Tophia by the hand as she led her up the stairwell to her room.

Fortunately, Azula missed her father on her way to her bedroom. As she and her friend walked into the room, Azula turned on the television in the corner to create ambient noise and Tophia kicked off her shoes placing her feet on the floor so they could talk uninterrupted. Tophia spoke first, "So, your Dad is an alcoholic… That sucks. I could smell the whiskey (among other things) on him. How long has he been like that?" Azula raised an eyebrow. She knew she really shouldn't have been surprised by Tophia's perceptiveness. Azula spoke softly "Well, until now it was a well-kept family secret, but my father is really a mess. Has been for a while. It got worse right before my mother died—w-when he almost killed ZuZu." Tophia whistled long and low. "I know you said that before, but I really feel like I underestimated just how dangerous your father is. If he is this drunk by midday and was willing to meet you at the door half naked and raging, I think I can believe anything you tell me about him. Are you sure you want to stay here? I'm beginning to think Zuko was the buffer between you and your father, even though you pretended not to get along with him, but to be here alone with this man… I-I don't know Azula." Tophia said her voice uncharacteristically edged with concern and fear.

Azula sighed. Was she really that obvious? Who else knew the truth? Maybe her family life really wasn't that big of a secret to begin with. Many people were familiar with her father's temper and it doesn't take a genius to figure out if that temper carried on to his home. She sighed again wearily. "Well Phi Phi, as long as your father continues to deal with mine and I seem useful, Ozai won't do anything. I think. We just have to work quickly to find a solution to this situation in Ba Sing Se." Tophia nodded in understanding. "OK, I think my dad is going to help with that right now." Azula's heartrate spiked. "H-how?" Tophia smirked. "While you were sleeping this morning, I had a little heart to heart chat with my parents… don't worry. My father is quite convinced that you are good for me. I'm pretty sure your father will be coming to you soon enough. You will be quite useful to him." Azula let out a slow breath. "OK, I trust you…"

Azula and Tophia stopped their conversation short for a breaking news report on the television. "This is ENN with a breaking news update. The trial for the alleged murderer of the infamous crime boss Mo Zhou was scheduled to begin this week. However, the trial has been pushed back another week due to a prison riot at Ba Sing Se Penitentiary, between members of the Red Lotus Faction and the suspect. His injuries sustained will prevent him from appearing in court on Monday. The suspect, Jiro Hide Watanabe turned himself into the police the next morning after Zhou was found dead with deep gashes to his face and throat. Dubbed as the "Murder No One Regrets," some have touted Watanabe to be a hero who has done the city of Ba Sing Se a huge favor. Mo Zhou has been attributed to numerous crimes and crime gangs within the city including the infamous Red Lotus faction…"

Azula stood staring at the screen with her mouth wide open. Tophia felt Azula tremble as they listened to the report. "Azula? Azula are you OK? You're trembling like a leaf!" Tophia whispered. Azula jerked out of her stupor and shook her head. "I know him. I know him! I know Jiro Watanabe from BSSHS. He used to hang with Jet and my friends during lunch. We called him Sneers. He wasn't a violent person. I mean he trained in weapons, but he was only doing it for entertainment." Tophia was all ears. She had heard of Sneers Watanabe but never got to know him on any level. She had to take Azula's word for it.

Azula continued her story becoming more and more animated gesturing with her arms and thinking aloud."Sneers had plans to go on to business school. He never hurt anyone and was a real wise crack, but one day he was removed for "re-education." It doesn't make sense, No one knew why and no one except Jet heard from him again. At their last meeting, Sneers and Jet parted ways. He was "different" Jet said. Something about him was lost. We later heard that he had moved out of town and graduated from another school outside of Ba Sing Se, but that can't be true can it? It was only a few months ago. It seems so strange that he would come back to Ba Sing Se just to murder the most infamous crime boss in the country. What would make him do such a one-eighty? It just doesn't add up…" Tophia was thoughtful. "I think you're right: there is more to this story than meets the eye. We should keep tabs on it and perhaps investigate "re-education" too. Isn't Long Feng Hua good friends with your father? I also thought I remember your brother saying something about Mo Zhou having ties to your fa—" There was a sudden knock on the door and Ozai's low voice rumbled on the other side. "Girls, it's time for Tophia to go. You can finish your girl talk another time." Tophia and Azula gasped with the sudden realization that they may have been speaking too loudly and distractedly. Tophia didn't feel Ozai approach the bedroom door. Azula answered quickly, "Yes Father, we'll be right out." Tophia felt Ozai walk away from the door and down the stairs. "Oh! My Gods, you don't think—?" Tophia asked. "I really hope not..." Azula finished.

oooo000000oooo

Detective Jiang walked down the long dark corridor to the prison infirmary. The guards standing post near the prisoner's room nodded to Korra as she walked up. "Is the prisoner awake now? One guard spoke, "Yes, he's awake, but uh, he has a visitor right now. He should be done shortly." He said. Korra cocked her head, "A visitor? Who is it?" The guard looked sheepish. "Uh it's Principal Hua from Ba Sing Se High. Watanabe was a former student and he said he wanted to talk to him for a minute. He feels like everything that happened with Watanabe is his fault because he couldn't help him turn his life around. He's only been in a few minutes." Korra nodded. Her face was expressionless as she waited quietly for Long Feng to come out of the room. What the guards took for her hardnose personality was actually Korra listening in. "The Earth…has invited…to…Laogai." Long Feng was speaking in low tones so she couldn't make out all the words. What was he doing? Reciting poetry? She would have to pay Long Feng a visit soon.

The doors soon opened and Long Feng looked as if he were trying to pull his emotions together. He straightened his tie, adjusted his jacket and took a deep breath while correcting his posture. He looked at Detective Korra and nodded to her politely. "Good Day Detective, or maybe not so good. It's times like these I wonder if my job is worth it. This is sad…very sad. Jiro had the potential to do great things with his life." He took another deep breath as if to steady himself and nodded to the guards. "Honda, Shiro, its good to see you both again." The guards nodded back respectfully though they retained their positions. Long Feng looked at Korra. "Detective…" he said. As Long Feng walked away, the two guards shook their heads in pity, but Korra watched with a deepening curiosity. She would have to pay her old principal a visit this week.

Jiro "Sneers" Watanabe was an enigma. He didn't come from a family of wealth. He didn't come from poverty either. He was what one could have considered a normal kid from a normal middle-class family. So how did he become the killer of one of the most infamous criminals in Ba Sing Se history? He did do weapons training, which would certainly give him the ability, but his father ran a popular martial arts dojo which performed feats with knives and swords yearly at the Earth Festival. He wasn't a trouble maker according to his school records or his friends except for a fight he got into with another student over his sister. After the fight, he was sent out for "re-education" and three months later Mo Zhou is dead by his hand. Korra sat watching Jiro Watanabe breathe laboriously over his wounds from the previous days. He did not have the look of a stone-cold killer but looks can be deceiving she reminded herself.

Korra came to speak with Jiro after he was brought into the infirmary and began raving about how he was innocent. How he did not kill Mo Zhou and was coerced into confessing. He screamed over and over how he wasn't even there the night of the murder and couldn't have been the murderer. He insisted on speaking to Detective Korra Jiang. He insisted emphatically that she would see the truth and that he needed to speak to her. That was yesterday.

Detective Jiang remembers the day Watanabe came in to confess. He was calm and confident: almost in a detached and hypnotic sort of way. He was clear in his details about what happened and how he ended up facing Mo Zhou. Too clear as Korra looks back on it. To the average officer, it would seem like a perfect crime of passion and revenge. All the details were in place and it would be an open and shut case. Watanabe's sister had been an unfortunate victim of Mo Zhou but lived to tell the tale. The damage done to her body and mind left her a shell of her former self. Jiro Watanabe was out for blood. He took advantage of a situation where Mo Zhou was trying to attack Katara Kuvira and as a result saved her life but also exacted his revenge in the most brutal of ways. Now he was screaming how he had nothing to do with the situation at all. Was it buyer's remorse or was he truly not the person they were looking for? This conversation would let Korra know.

Korra called Jiro's name softly. When he didn't stir she called his name again with a little more volume. "Watanabe, wake up. It's Detective Jiang. I need to speak with you." Sneers began shifting on the bed and waking up slowly. He sat up little by little and still breathed with effort, but he didn't seem to be in as much pain as the first day. Morphine is a hell of a drug. Korra continued speaking, Good Afternoon Sneers, you called for me. What's going on and what do you want to tell me?" Sneers looked at Korra with the same distant look from the day of his confession. "I apologize for wasting your time Detective Jiang. I called you out of a fit of panic. I had been hurt so badly that I didn't want to remain in prison anymore. I hoped that if I retracted my confession, you could help me find a way to get out of this. I know now it was foolish of me. I killed Mo Zhou and I don't regret it. He took everything from my sister and she won't ever be the same." He pounded his hand in his fist. "No, I don't regret what I did. I do regret wasting your time, however."

Sneers spoke as if his speech was perfectly rehearsed. He showed no real emotion and was calm. Much too calm. Even as he talked about his sister, it was said with the same amount of passion as one would read the ingredients off a box of cereal. Korra couldn't put her finger on it yet, but there was something very wrong here. "You haven't wasted my time Jiro. I am so sorry about what has happened to you. I know you are willing to pay for your crimes, but you don't deserve to be mistreated by the other inmates. I'll see if we can arrange a private cell for you until your trial." Jiro gave Korra a beatific smile and bowed as much as his injuries would allow. "Thank you, Detective Jiang. You honor me even in my dishonor. I will not forget your kindness." Korra hid the shock on her face at Jiro's strange behavior. He continued to smile in that strange plastic way even after his bow. That's not creepy. Korra nodded in a slight bow back to Sneers and left the infirmary. There is something wrong with this scenario and she had to get to the bottom of it. Perhaps it was time to go back to school.

oooo000000oooo

As Azula escorted Tophia back down the stairs to the front door. Her father and Mr. Bei Fong were waiting in the foyer. Her father's face was unreadable as he stood next to his business partner. Azula had no idea of what to expect once the Bei Fongs left. She was completely intimidated. Tophia picked up on her tremors and erratic heartrate. She whispered, "Courage Azula. Your father is not going to hurt you without risking the favor he has just curried through you. Be confident. You said he can smell fear a mile away. Don't give him the satisfaction of unnerving you. We don't know what he actually heard at your door." Tophia squeezed her hand as if to say, "Stick to the plan. We've got this." Azula took a deep breath and remembered that she was not alone. There were several people who were willing to help her and she had the upper hand. Ozai smiled. To others it appeared pleasant and almost friendly. To Azula who has seen it enough times to know what it meant was wary. His smile hid a touch of malice and cruelty behind it. He asked with a deceptively cordial tone, "Did you two have fun while you waited? You were having a very intense conversation when I came up."

Tophia didn't miss a beat. "Oh yes! We were discussing some of the boys we happen to like at school. Azula doesn't think any of the boys are worth her time. I told her she just hasn't met the right one." Ozai chuckled, "Well, if it were up to me, I'd lock her in her room forever, so she'd always remain my little girl." Ozai emphasized the "my" and both girls got the message loud and clear. Oblivious to the implication, Lao joined in the laughter, "I know what you mean, Ozai. Our little girls grow up way too fast, but you know we can't protect them forever." Ozai's chuckle rumbled lower than Azula thought possible. "You're right Lao, but we can certainly try…"

Ozai caught Azula's eye. His look challenged "You won't escape me." She smiled tightly. She gripped Tophia's hand so much her knuckles began to whiten. Azula pretended to sigh to get her voice under control. She giggled, "Father, I'll always be your daughter no matter what happens. Ozai grunted in response. He turns to Lao as if a major battle did not just occur under his very nose. "Lao, I appreciate our conversation. I look forward to our continued relationship." Lao gripped his hand, "So do I, Ozai. Azula, you'll probably be hearing from my little princess soon. We'd like to have you over for dinner again. Azula bowed, "Of course Mr. Bei Fong. I'm looking forward to it. Tophia, I'll see you at school on Monday?" She said with more faith than she felt. Tophia nodded. "Of course, you will Azula, if not sooner." A challenge. Ozai raised his brow in amusement.

As Lao and Tophia Bei Fong drove off in their car, Lao remarked to his daughter, "Tophia, I think Azula is very lucky to have you as a friend. Sometimes I think she really needs one." Tophia chuffed at how prophetic her parents have become lately. Tophia sighed, "More than you know, Daddy…"

Ozai didn't hit Azula nearly as hard as she expected him to. The blow came as soon as Ozai heard the car start up in the circular driveway. He made sure to avoid her face near her eyes, but squarely got her in the jaw and managed to nick her mouth. Azula wiped away the blood and fought desperately to hold back the tears that threatened to pour out of her eyes. "What were you talking about in your bedroom? I heard the little blind bitch mention your brother." He gripped her by both arms tightly. "Were you spreading lies about me to the Bei Fong girl?" He shook her violently. "Out with it!" Azula struggled to maintain her composure. To lose it now would ruin everything she spent the night over Tophia's house for. "S-s-she was telling me about something Zuko told her about you before the Jasmine Dragon accident. He told her about what happened to his eye. They were friends, you know." Ozai stared into his daughter's eyes, he saw the fear in them but also the truth.

Azula spoke softly, "Father, you know I'm loyal to you. I would never do anything to hurt our family name. It doesn't matter what Zuko told her. He's not in his right mind anymore. He's not coming back. I just want to help you in any way I can. Tophia was being nice to me at the gala and I figured being nice back would be a good way for you to gain favor with her father. So what if I have to listen to a few lies and sob stories? It won't change my mind about what I know. You are on the verge of the business deal of the century. If I can help you make stronger ties with the Bei Fongs and gain favor with them by being friends with their bratty daughter, then so be it."

Ozai loosened his grip on her arms and let her stand. "Lao seems to be under the impression that you are the consummate perfect daughter and would make a great companion for his child. I know what you are saying is true, but I needed to confirm it. I will allow you to spend time with his daughter. You will go to the events she hosts and be her little pet if that is what is required, but you will report to me. Any beneficial information you find out, you will be sure to give me immediately. I will not be made a fool of. If I feel you are trying to betray me or get away from me…" He squeezed her arms painfully. "I will make you regret the moment you took your first breath in the world. Am I clear?" Azula's eyes watered. "Yes, Father, it's clear. I'm only here to help." She said breathlessly. He released her arms and she fell back slightly. "Go get an icepack and stay in your room until dinner." Ozai commanded. He stumbled away from her into his study. She heard the clinking of ice into a crystal glass and the sound of liquid sloshing. Azula moved quickly to the kitchen to get the icepack she was sure to need for her face and her arms. Tophia, I really hope you know what you're doing. Azula thought.

oooo000000oooo

Zuko slept until late morning. Staying up until 4:00 a.m. was not the best and brightest idea he's had in a while. Luckily, his uncle didn't wake him when he normally rose to do meditation. As Zuko walked into the kitchen, his uncle was busy preparing a pot of ginseng tea. "Good Morning, or should I say Afternoon, Zuko. You and Sokka were up very late last night. Is everything alright? Zuko smiled as he grabbed a mango moonpeach tart from the tray his uncle set up. Nothing ever seems to get past his uncle. "Yes Uncle, everything is fine. Uh, well. There is something I wanted to talk with you about. It has to do with the mask and the vision I told you about." Iroh raised an eybrow. "Oh, have you had another?" Zuko was shocked. How did he know? "Um, yeah, h-how did you know?" Iroh chuckled, "You have the same haunted look about you as last time, plus, I overheard you and Sokka talking about it on your way to bed. I pretended to stay asleep so that I didn't startle you." Zuko smiled sheepishly and rubbed the back of his neck. "Oh. Well, can we talk about it maybe?" Iroh smiled, "Of course nephew, why do you think I made tea and pastries?" Zuko gave his uncle a lopsided smile. "Ok, but can we speak somewhere privately? I thought I heard Katara return already." Iroh nodded and led Zuko to Hakoda's study. It was empty and they closed and locked the door for more privacy.

Iroh gave Zuko an opportunity to drink his tea and eat another pastry before he began. It wouldn't do for his nephew to try to tell a story on an empty stomach. In addition, he knew from Zuko's voice last night that the vision unsettled him greatly. The ginseng would help him remain calm. Zuko took a deep breath. He didn't want to keep his uncle waiting too much longer. He would have to start somewhere, and he really hoped Uncle would have some answers for him. "In my first vision I saw a bald boy with blue arrow tattoos on his head and arms. He was rescued by the Blue Spirit from the Pouhai stronghold near Taku. I think I tried to firebend at him. Well maybe not me specifically but the person who was wearing the mask as the Blue Spirit before me. Whenever I put on the mask. I see everything from the view point of this person in the vision. I feel what he feels." Iroh looked up sharply. "You watched the vision from the vantage point of the Blue Spirit?" Iroh inquired. "Yes, in fact in the second vision I saw his face. It was my face. Same scar, same eyes. His face was much angrier and more hardened than mine I guess. I didn't even tell Sokka what I saw. I heard you in the vision. You were talking to this other Zuko. You called him Prince. What is going on Uncle and what does this Prince Zuko have to do with me?" Iroh sat quietly for a long moment. He shook his head as if in disbelief and smiled. "You're finally waking up. Welcome back to the world your highness." Zuko blinked. "W-what? Your highness? Uncle, you're kinda freaking me out…" Zuko spat nervously. Iroh stood up and bowed to Zuko. "Zuko, my nephew. You are remembering not having visions. What you saw in both cases are memories of your past self, Zuko. You are the reincarnation of your ancestor Fire Lord Zuko Sozinze. As I am the reincarnation of your Uncle Iroh. The spirits saw fit to bring you back to this world because you have a work to do." Zuko's mouth opened and closed. "I-I don't feel like someone else. I feel like me. I've always been me." Iroh nodded. "Yes, we are who we are, but we are more. Do you not find it strange that you were able defeat three men at one time without weapons that night? That requires skill. A skill you previously were not taught. Think back nephew. What else have you noticed?"

Zuko thought again. His head was beginning to hurt but this had to be important if his brain was going to so much effort. Zuko sighed, "Of the friends I have now they each have some ancestral connection to the heroes of the 100 Year War, and each of them feel like I've known forever. I felt familiarity with each of them especially Ang. I feel like I've seen places in Ba Sing Se I've never been to before. I thought maybe it was déjà vu. I know things, knowledge from the past, but I shouldn't know them at all. Are you telling me it's no coincidence? Iroh smiled. "Zuko, Are you telling me that it is?" Zuko smiled back. "Well Korra would say that there is no such thing as coincidence." Iroh nodded. "Then like Detective Jiang let's examine the evidence: You put on this mask that represented a figure from your history. You begin to see the past through his eyes. You are recognizing all your friends who aided you in the past. You can do things that were previously not possible for you. Now you are in an excellent position to stop your father who is named after the previous Fire Lord that also tried to destroy the world. And these friends you recognize bend all the elements and have skills to aid you. What do you think of this, your highness?" Zuko looked at his uncle for a moment and said, "I think I need to know more about my history, Uncle. It sounds like the past is trying to repeat itself." Iroh nodded sagely. "Get comfortable nephew, this may take a while."

oooo000000oooo

Poppy Bei Fong was so happy at the turn of events from Tophia's slumber party that she decided to surprise her daughter with a trip to the spa when she returned with her father. Tophia squealed with delight because although she was pretending to be more interested in her mother's work she was genuinely a fan of going to the spa. "Oh mother! I love the spa. What made you think of doing this? Tophia asked happily. "Well, Tophie I was honestly looking for more ways we could spend time together and bond. When you came to me about your ideas this morning, I just wanted to make the moment last a little longer. I hope you don't mind?" Tophia smiled. "Mom, you really don't need to create a moment anymore. I have seen how I don't spend as much time with you and I really do hope that we can work together more often. I'd be honored to go to the spa with you today." Poppy beamed with satisfaction. "Wonderful, I'll just go get my purse."

The Fancy Lady Day Spa was a living piece of history. The structure has stood in the middle ring for over two centuries and has been kept in pristine condition through two regime changes and a coup. The spa hosted the friends of the Avatar Aang, a hero of the 100 Year War and next to last known realized Avatar, and countless families who could afford to live lavishly. Located in the Merchant's Row, it was in a prime spot for tourists and regulars alike. Tophia briefly wondered if her father factored in the landmarks like these in his plans for his mega high-end mall? Would there be a Fancy Lady Day Spa when all was said and done? That was something she would have to think about a little later. Poppy greeted the receptionist and one of the stylists, Gigi, who was renowned for her makeup artistry and hair styling. Mother and daughter opted for The Fancy Lady ™ premium package that included massages, mud baths, manicures, and pedicures. Though Tophia abhorred the pedicure, everything else in the package was divine.

Poppy and Tophia sat next to one another during the pedicures. They were receiving leg massages when Tophia asked a question. "Mom, I think I would like to have my first event as soon as possible. I feel as though I would lose momentum if I don't get started right away." Poppy was leaning in her chair allowing the chair massager to do its work while the pedicurist massaged her legs. She had cucumbers over her eyes while a mud mask dried on her face. She sat up quickly losing a cucumber slice. "What kind of event did you have in mind, Tophie? You know these things take time to plan and coordinate schedules. How soon are you thinking my dear?" Tophia pretended to look thoughtful. She already knew these things but was thinking of how to get Azula away from her father as soon as possible even if just for a reprieve. "Yes mother, I realize it may be short notice, but what if I did an introductory tea party or a brunch?"

She put her hand under her chin as if in deep thought. "Perhaps a small gathering with a select few that will allow me practice and to get a feel for the kind of reception I would have in starting something like the junior chapter. What do you think Mother?" Poppy hummed thoughtfully. "It wouldn't be out of place to have a Sunday brunch with your friends. With you all being out of school for a midwinter break, girls should be available to attend. I think you should have Katara and Azula attend. Oh! Michi's daughter, what is her name? Yes, Mai and the Quon girl, Ty Lee!" Poppy rattled off a few more names some familiar and some completely foreign. She exclaimed, Oh, Tophie! I would love to help you plan this event! May I?" The hope in Poppy's voice was so apparent that she knew it would be the last push her mother needed to fully integrate herself into Tophia's plans. "Of course, Mother I could use all the help I can get." Tophia smiled. Poppy Bei Fong looked as if she could float out of the spa and into outer space. "So perfect! I can't wait to get this mud off. I have phone calls to make!" she chirped. Tophia fought the urge to roll her eyes and smiled for her mother.

oooo000000oooo

"This is a lot to take in Uncle." Zuko sat up in his chair. He had been listening to his uncle recount the sordid history of the Fire Nation and its royal family. Some things didn't surprise him like Fire Lord Ozai's treatment of his son the then Crown Prince Zuko, and others completely caught him off guard. "You are essentially telling me that I am my great-great-great-grandfather reborn? And this same grandfather was the Blue Spirit during his time and has "passed" his mantle on to me? I know I'm too young to drink, but I could really use one right now…" Iroh sat silently and let his nephew process the information as well as could be expected. Zuko continued "Why me? Why now? He could have come at any other time in history. Uncle, I killed someone. I was defending myself, but I wanted to kill him. I don't talk about it much, but it still haunts me. Was that me and my choice or Fire Lord Zuko's? What am I supposed to do with this information?"

Zuko didn't want to come across as stupid but this was a lot to absorb at one time: To be yourself 200 years in the future. A warrior, a war hero, and masked vigilante. To navigate a new time and still deal with the same age-old problems of greed, power and control. It was as if he was caught in a loop. Was there nothing original about his life? Was he destined to keep experiencing the loss of a mother, the rejection of a father and the dysfunction of sibling rivalries? Was he fated to be with the same person from his past? A fugitive from his father? What would be the point of coming back if history is just going to repeat itself? Iroh saw Zuko ruminating over his life and the potential for him to spiral out of control. It was time to talk him off his proverbial ledge. "Zuko, just because there are some major similarities to your life now and that of your past you are still free to change the future. Nothing is written in stone, but there are some conflicts that will never go away. Conflicts that are as old as time itself. You have been selected for this time because of the qualities you possess. Your mother saw who you were. She knew that one day you would have to stand up for yourself and your city and all you love. She sacrificed herself so that you could have a future."

Zuko looked up sharply. "Sacrificed? What are you talking about Uncle? What sacrifice?" Iroh sighed wearily. He knew that the time would come for him to know the truth about his mother one day. He prayed Zuko would be able to hear without anger and listen. "Zuko, your mother was a fire bender: Like you, like Azula. She was skilled and quite powerful. Ozai didn't know about her bending in the same way he didn't know about mine. As you know, being a bender in this day and age is the equivalent of a death sentence. Your mother suppressed her bending with a combination of chi blocking and herbs. It destroyed her body and then her mind over time." Zuko took in a sharp breath. A bender! My mom…She died because she wouldn't allow herself to bend. For us! Zuko realized. He was in a state of emotional distress. He stood up to try to get to the door of the study for air but felt frozen in place. Zuko wanted to throw something, flip a table, anything but this wasn't his house and he had too much respect for Hakoda. He fell to the ground and pounded the wooden floor. He sat down on the hardwood devastated smoke billowing out of his nostrils and curling up from his fists. He barely whispered his words. "How could she do that? To herself? To us? We needed her! Her family needed her! Why would she do something like that?" Zuko was practically begging his uncle.

Iroh was sober his emotions heavy. "Your mo—Ursa knew that it would only be a matter of time before Ozai discovered her bending abilities. Ozai married her with no knowledge of her bending though she is a direct descendant of Avatar Roku's granddaughter (give or take a few greats). She was from Hira'a, a small town in the outer islands, and bending wasn't as taboo as it was in the Caldera, or royal city of the Fire Nation. She kept it a secret at her parents' behest and figured it was for the best. She didn't want to bring suspicion on the two of you by having her bending discovered. You know the level of paranoia your father is capable of now." Iroh stroked his beard and pondered whether he should share the rest of the story. Zuko listened with rapt attention knowing that what he would say next would probably confirm everything he knew in his heart.

"You know your father has issues with control. He doesn't share power and tries to eliminate any threat he sees to it." Iroh hung his head. What he had to say next weighed on him heavily but it was a part of the past that could not stay hidden. Zuko had to know everything. "There was a bender, a close friend of the family and a member of your father's crew. His name was Jee Long. It was discovered that Jee was a bender accidentally when the crew was taking care of some "business" for Ozai. Ozai didn't hesitate to take his life even as he begged for it. You were both very young. That was when Ursa began to suppress her chi. Maybe months after she started, both you and your sister began to present as benders at the same time. Fortunately, Ozai was away on business at that time. She immediately started to suppress both your chi and Azula's. That was when you became weakened or "sickly" because you had a much stronger connection to your bending than your sister though she too is quite powerful. Your father would take you to doctors because we couldn't find a cause to your "illness". They began to say it was psychosomatic", you know in your head." "I know what psychosomatic means Uncle!" Zuko snapped harshly. Zuko sighed running his hand through his hair. "I'm sorry. I'm feeling testy. Go on Uncle." Zuko added apologetically. Iroh continued, "Unfortunately, that was the only way we could really protect you from your father and his prejudice."

Zuko stood and began walking the floor. Iroh knew he did this when he was processing what he heard. He waited patiently to see if Zuko had any questions. When Zuko stopped pacing he looked at his uncle, sighed and gestured for him to continue. Iroh nodded and began again. "We started with chi blocking because it was less invasive than the herbs. You and your father thought you were receiving regular acupressure treatments to help with your "weakness." The chi blocking treatments became less and less effective as you got older and eventually, we had to switch to a strong bending suppressant herb. You already know some of the effects of that treatment." Zuko closed his eyes to shut out the memories of his botched suicide attempt and his stint in a mental health facility. He really thought that his issues were because he was weak: weak-minded, weak-willed, weak in his body. Zuko opened and closed his fists as he thought about all the pain and trauma he went through because of his father and unfortunately sometimes, his sister. Iroh saw the potential for Zuko to wallow in pity so he continued to make sure Zuko understood.

"You have no idea the amount of raw power you possess. The day you burned your father, you could have easily destroyed him. Incinerated him to ashes where he stood without much effort, but you exhibited a tremendous amount of control. Your ancestor learned how to truly bend with the original masters; the dragons Ran and Shaw. You have that same knowledge and power within you." Zuko listened wide-eyed and with rapt attention. "Zuko, I stopped the herbs a little before you and Sokka became friends. When your doctor said that you should take a break from your antidepressants, she was talking about the chi blocking herbs. We hired someone to work with you legitimately, but who could help us also hide what we were doing from your father. Dr. Wu monitored you as closely as she could and would travel to Ba Sing Se for your appointments. She warned us to keep a close eye on you after you stopped taking the suppressant as she was unsure of the side effects and whether or not your bending would return suddenly. That was during the time I asked for your help two summers ago in shop. I had hoped that if your bending returned, I could teach you how to manage it so that you wouldn't need the suppressants" Zuko thought back: Uncle kept him so busy that he didn't have time to worry about anything much less a breakdown. It was after his father demanded that he return home to prepare for the new school year that things went south. "I was fine over the summer. It was only when I went back home with fa—Ozai and Azula that things became unbearable." Zuko remarked.

Iroh sipped from his teacup. The tea was practically iced so he placed the delicate cup in his hand and warmed it to steaming. He took a long sip and said, "When you were suicidal, you were having a crisis: You were going through a difficult adjustment which I fear had more to do with your family than the influence of the herbs. I do believe the residual herbs in your body made you more vulnerable to the abuse you suffered. Fortunately, you had someone who was there for you before it was too late." Iroh sighed thanking the spirits in his heart for Sokka. "We knew some of the risks involved when giving you the herbs, but we also knew without a doubt your father would not have accepted you as a bender. Your mother was using the same suppressant before she died. It destroyed her. She held on as long as she could to the very end. Ursa loved you both without measure, even more than her own life. She would have sacrificed her life over and over if it meant keeping you safe. She's done it before Zuko. Search your memories, you know of what I speak. Do not let her sacrifice be in vain."

Unbidden, Zuko did search his memories and saw a beautiful, lithe and graceful version of his mother as the princess of the Fire Nation. He saw her come into his room cloaked and hooded at midnight. She told him never to forget who he was. She told him everything she did was for him and then she was gone. Leaving Zuko alone to face a madman that he also called father. Zuko shuddered. "I knew about Jee, but I never saw who it was, didn't know his name. Azula and I both knew. We were in the yard and we heard his screams and saw the blood on F—Ozai's hands. Mother was very brave to raise us under Ozai's nose in that way. He's probably more upset that she got away with it than the fact that we are benders, though he still doesn't know about Azula. My friends and I are working to find a way to get her away from him. He's slipping into madness Uncle." Iroh grunted in agreement and concern. "It will be much more difficult to do with his fixation on Azula, but if young Miss Bei Fong is on it, she will not give up without a fight." Zuko nodded though he couldn't help but worry for his sister. He used to be a shield for her and now she has no one there to help counteract their father's obsession and intimidation. He prayed to any spirit available that they would protect his sister from their father's abuse and give them a chance to stop Ozai before there was no point of return.

oooo000000oooo

The late morning brunch Poppy Bei Fong helped to plan with Tophia was a wonder to behold! In less than a week, Poppy had secured invitations, guests, and a decorator who created a literal lotus garden in the ballroom of the house complete with a koi pond. Poppy contracted GiGi for the day to help Tophia, Azula, and Katara get styled and made up for the event and to give them final touches before the event began. Suki was unable to attend because she was lucky to be alive after the conversation she had with her parents the day Mr. Bei Fong dropped her off. "Detective" Hakoda was true to his word that he would speak to her parents and speak to her parents he did. Not only that, when Suki entered the house Sokka was on the couch next to his father looking like the grinch had stolen his Christmas, his New Years, his Thanksgiving and his Hanukah. Suki knew at that moment that there would be no re-negotiations or establishment of boundaries because there would be no relationship.

Suki figured she should count her blessings that she is still living in Ba Sing Se since her parents are planning on investing in the Bei Fong development plan. She however, was about to become a hermit and an angel for the next year since she was grounded and only had permission to attend temple, home and school and even that was on a probationary period. One slip up with grades or behavior and she was going to homeschool. span style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanAs she told her friends all of this on the phone, they gave their sincere condolences and promised that they would fill her in on all the details of the brunch at school on Monday. Tophia was the only one to say, "You got off easy, girl. It could definitely be worse. Be thankful it's only a grounding and not a shotgun wedding. At least Sokka's still alive, right? And you'll see him at school." Suki hesitated. Tophia called out, "Suki? What are you not telling us?" Suki sniffed on the phone. She tried to keep her voice calm. "Hakoda wants to send Sokka to military school. It was either that or re-education. Sokka opted for military school." The three girls froze. Tophia swore. Azula whistled and Katara sighed. "Sorry Suki." they all said in chorus. Suki sighed. "Hey girls, I have to go. I only had three minutes on the phone and I was supposed to send my regrets. I'll see you at school on Monday. Bye." The three girls said bye sadly and hung up. It's going to be a long school year.

Ozai was somewhat reluctant to allow his daughter to go back to the Bei Fongs so soon after the slumber party, but it seems whatever the little blind brat wanted she got. On the other hand he also noticed that the Bei Fongs were much more receptive to him anytime Azula was around and being friendly to their daughter. Lao and Poppy's attitudes were warmer and more open to him and his suggestions. Could it be that their daughter was their weakness and the key to getting what he wanted? In his mind he began to formulate a plan to have his daughter milk the newfound trust and relationship with the Bei Fongs. It looked like his wheel of fortune was finally turning. If relinquishing a little control over Azula was opening the doors for him to get what he wanted, it was a necessary move on the chess board and worth the inconvenience of not knowing his daughter's every move. He knew she would always come back to him in the end.

The brunch began promptly at 11 o'clock and all of the guests were punctual and properly attired. Mai arrived in a more traditional Kimono of Fire nation design. She was strikingly beautiful in her red and black ensemble her hair done in traditional buns on either side of the top of her head. Her friend and companion Ty Lee arrived at the same time wearing a subdued pink and modern halter dress with tulle underlay. She wore bright pink pumps that off set the pale pink of her dress and coordinated with her shawl and purse. Both girls greeted Tophia, Azula and Katara with a customary bow and entered the ballroom without much conversation. They gave Azula a curious look that asked a question that needed to be answered later on. Several other girls from the neighboring mansions arrived shortly after Mai and Ty Lee, each girl giving a hint of their signature style and of course parental influence.

Plans went off without a hitch, each guest found delicious food to enjoy and chatted amicably to the other attendees. After an hour, Katara and Azula stood to get the attention of the girls. Azula's voice rang out clearly over the ballroom. "Ladies, thank you so much for joining us for this momentous occasion. I know many of you are wondering why we have chosen to host such an event for the young ladies of our society but now we would like to share with you some information that we hope will be exciting you as well. Tophia?" Tophia walked up to stand beside her friends. "Good afternoon ladies, firstly I would like to thank my mother Poppy Bei Fong for helping me to make this brunch such a roaring success. All though I can't see the ballroom, by many of your reactions the venue is stunning. Thank you Mother." The girls gave exuberant applause and cheers.

Tophia raised her hand to continue, "You were chosen and invited by myself and my mother because I have a vision and desire that I would like to come to fruition. As many of you know, my mother is the president of the High Society Ladies' Club in Ba Sing Se. After speaking to my mother about wanting to create an outlet and opportunity for ladies like ourselves to good in the community, I asked if we could create a Junior chapter of the Ladies Society but perhaps give it a name that reflects the kind of modern and vibrant young women we are. Girls turned and murmured to one another about the idea of a club just for them. The mood was positive and receptive. Katara stepped up for her turn to speak. "Ladies, we are not here to turn you into activists or to create miniature versions of our parents. We want to provide an opportunity for us to choose projects and events that we are passionate about. Things that we can have real and lasting change over if we work together. Today is a day for each of us get to know one another and to provide an opportunity to hear what many of you are interested in and perhaps see if this group is for you. We'll be circulating to get feedback and suggestions from you. We will also have a sign up available for those who are interested."

As Katara finished speaking the room was abuzz with excited energy. For some, they had been waiting a while for an opportunity like this to come. Many saw with this club the potential for them to get in good with the Bei Fongs and help move their parents up the ladder of success by their positive interactions. Others saw this as an exciting opportunity to plan events that would allow them to see how the other half lived and have access to the forbidden places of Ba Sing Se (i.e. the lower ring). And for some, they saw it as another attempt for the Bei Fongs to garner more influence and power for their family so that they could create the mega mall they heard their parents talking about. Though attitudes varied, the consensus was that the Young Ladies League would be an amazing opportunity to perhaps make lasting and real change in the society of Ba Sing Se.

At the close of the brunch, after most young ladies said their good-byes and gave promises of support for the Young Ladies League, Mai and Ty Lee found Azula in the ballroom helping to clean up the dishes. Katara and Tophia were also cleaning and collecting tablecloths and napkins for washing. "Azula," Mai called out. "Do you have a minute?" Azula looked to her two companions cleaning and Tophia chuckled and said, "Hey, you worked hard today. Why don't you take a break and catch up with your friends? It's not too cool outside if you want to go in the courtyard." Azula nodded her thanks to Katara and whispered to Tophia, "Thank you, I owe you one." Tophia waved her off nonchalantly. "Forget about it. Go talk to your friends."

As Azula and her two oldest friends walk out on to the courtyard grass, Mai turns on her and growls, "Where the fuck have you been Azula? We don't hear from you for weeks, weeks Azula! Suddenly you're besties with the blind girl and the water wench? What the hell!" Azula's eyes widened only for a fraction as she got her emotions quickly under control. She knew Mai didn't know about any of what has occurred since the fire at the Jasmine Dragon. She still didn't know if she could trust them event though she was sure they didn't reveal her secret to her father. Azula sighed, "Look, I'm doing something for my father. He wants me to pretend to be friends with the Bei Fong girl. Things almost fell out of the bottom when Uncle died in the fire. He's been keeping a close leash on me since Zuko's breakdown, OK. I'm sorry Mai. I really am. I haven't really been able to contact anyone even though you and Ty Lee are my best friends. I have to ride this out until my father completes the deal he's working on. After that, I can tell you everything. I promise I haven't replaced you two, Do you trust me?"

Mai gave Azula a once over, and she easily noticed the slightly yellowing bruise under Azula's chin near her jaw and her attempt to cover it with heavy foundation. Mai looked over at Ty Lee who at this point was very quiet and still probably trying to interpret Azula's aura. Ty Lee looked at Mai with wide and fearful eyes. "Azula, if you were in danger or really big trouble, would you tell us? Ty Lee asked in a serious and concerned voice. "You know you can tell us, right?" Azula hardened her expression and straightened her posture. If she didn't, she would tell them everything and possibly ruin all Tophia's hard work. "Ladies," Her breath hitched slightly. I'm very glad you came by today, it was so good to see you, and I hope that you will reconsider joining the Young Ladies League of Ba Sing Se. Please take care." The girls looked at her strangely but then noticed Poppy Bei Fong and Katara entering the foyer space leading past the courtyard.

Mai knew the game was back on and bowed to Azula "Of course, please inform Mrs. and Miss Bei Fong of our enjoyment of their hospitality and that we look forward to visiting again soon." At this Mai paused to make her message clear. "Please… take care Azula." Azula nodded. She got the message. Azula escorted Mai and Ty Lee to the front door of the grand estate and waved good bye as they got into their chauffeured car. She fought to wipe away a hasty tear before closing the door. As the car pulled off, Ty Lee whispered to Mai, "Azula's telling the truth but she's also lying. She's not giving us the whole story, but I don't think it's because she's being malicious. I think she's terrified, Mai." In a rare show of emotion Mai's voice trembled and her eyes watered, "I know Ty Lee, I know." The ride to the girls' homes was weighted down by their silent sorrow and despair over their friend.

It was sometime after 6:00 p.m. when Ozai sauntered in to pick Azula up from the brunch. He knew he was late but didn't apologize nor did he give an explanation. "Azula, we need to go. Get your things, now." He barked. She moved as if she were being chased by demons and gathered her bags. She gave a hasty good bye and hurried to the car waiting in the cobblestone driveway below. Neither Poppy nor Lao were around at the time and Ozai was feeling brazen. Katara was livid. She knew that he would never have dared to speak to his daughter in that manner if Tophia's parents were present. He knew how to keep up appearances after all. She glared at him openly and he glared back. It was then, Ozai decided to have a little fun.

"He stepped closer to Katara much closer than personal space demanded, and nearly touched nose to nose with her. "If you were a little older, I'd bet you'd be a real firecracker in bed. You have the spunk of a Fire Nation woman. Is it true what people say about Water Tribe women being passionate lovers? Let me know when you're ready to find out." Katara gagged in revulsion as Ozai laughed at her discomfort. Katara was perfectly prepared to give Ozai a piece of her mind when, he jumped in surprise as a voice called out. "I think it's time for you to go Councilman. It appears you have overstayed your welcome. Please, leave. Are you alright Katara?" Ozai scoffed ignoring Tophia completely in favor of ogling Katara up and down. How would the blind girl even know what he was doing? He wasn't going to listen to some disabled, spoiled brat. Katara continued to glare with revulsion at Ozai convinced more than ever that Azula was in more danger than anyone knew. She understood then that Ozai had no regard for anyone and would not be stopped unless he was dead. Her commitment to saving Ba Sing Se was renewed with fervor in that moment. She promised herself she would call Azula later that night to make sure she was OK.

Ozai chuckled menacingly and strutted through the front door as proud and egotistical as a peacock. Katara and Tophia radiated pure disgust and anger at Ozai's back. His wanton display sickened them. Ozai turned and twinkled his fingers in a mocking wave goodbye. He left the door wide open and made his way down the stairs. Just as he reached the bottom of the stairs, he "tripped" on a loose cobblestone landing face first on the driveway. Katara tried to stifle a laugh and Tophia declared loudly, "Oh my Gods! What happened Katara? It sounded like someone fell…" Ozai glared at the two girls as he stood and straightened himself. Cursing karma for being the bitch that it was, he wiped off the dust from his suit and spat blood on the driveway. He turned without a word and got into his car. Only after he left, did Katara realize that Azula may get the brunt of Ozai's anger and embarrassment when she got home. She clapped her hand to her mouth and sobbed, "Oh Gods, Phi Phi! I hope he doesn't take his anger out on Azi tonight. She doesn't deserve that. We have got to find a way to help her! I'm really scared for Azula." Tophia sobered quickly. "I know. It's not fair! He's a horrid person who feels like he can do whatever he wants, and he doesn't care who gets hurt in the process. I really wish Daddy didn't have to deal with him at all. But then where would that leave Azula?"

Katara looked miserable with tears quickly streaking her face. "Yeah…" she mumbled as she wiped tears away quickly. Unbeknownst to the two girls, a woman muffled her gasp at the horrible scenes that unfolded before her. She was about to step out and make sure the girls were set when she heard Ozai speaking harshly to his daughter. She stepped back out of sight: She wanted to see if perhaps she would see the true colors of Mr. Bei Fong's partner, a term she now held very loosely. Ozai was a brute! The audacity of a grown man to speak to a girl, and a well-respected one no less, in such a lewd and lascivious manner and how he dismissed Tophia! Surely he would have had more respect for the young lady of the house. It served him right to fall flat on his face! If she didn't know any better, she would say the spirits helped to bring that man down a peg or two. She always felt that Ozai was an unsavory character, but Poppy Bei Fong now knew that Ozai Azulon was quite possibly evil incarnate. He was a dangerous and unrepentant man. He was not worthy of any benefit he received from both the Earth King or his association with her family, but she knew she had to tread carefully for the sake of his daughter if she was going to be able to help her. Her mind already began running potential plays and options. She would have to work quickly. She had a feeling Azula Azulon was going to need all the help she could get.

oooo000000oooo

Later that night after Tophia's brunch, Katara needed to let off some steam. She was angry with Ozai for the way he used and treated people, especially his own children, Azula and Zuko, and destroyed their lives with control and fear. She wanted to tell her father about what happened, but she knew it would be her word against a well-established government official's. She also knew in light of recent events with her brother, that Hakoda Kuvira would not take the news very well and would make a personal visit to Ozai to give him "one on one time" with his fist, which would ruin any influence he has over the King's council. Katara was familiar enough with the political lay of the land to know that there was just too much corruption in the council for any accusations of its members to be taken seriously. She didn't want to burden her father with any more drama than necessary so she would find another outlet to vent her frustration.

What she needed was to go hurt some bad guys. She ran to her room and opened the wooden chest with the markings of two homelands. Having recently been declared a waterbending master, tonight would be a good night to put her new skills to practice. She had been working with and taking waterbending lessons from Gran Gran's "new, old beau" Pakku, from the Northern Water tribe. She smiled when she remembered how Pakku gave her such a hard time about learning combat or defensive waterbending. He touted that women should stick to the healing lessons and leave the combat waterbending to the men as it has always been. Gran Gran quickly put a stop to that misogynistic nonsense in a hurry. She made it very clear that she would waterbend him into single status if he didn't remove those old and outdated views and take her granddaughter on as a pupil based on her merits and the fact that she is practically one of the last waterbenders of the Southern Water Tribe. When she put it that way, Pakku was much more receptive to working with his now "star" pupil. And just to rub salt in the wound, Katara also started taking up healing with Yugoda Ata a skilled and experienced healer from the Northern tribe as well. Katara absorbed everything she learned from both of her teachers like a sponge.

Katara quickly checked to see if anyone was up and noticed that all the lights were out under each bedroom door except for Sokka's and that's only because Zuko now stays in his bedroom room since Sokka left for military school in Republic City. When she was sure the coast was clear, Katara put on the Painted Lady getup. Though the dress was long she still found freedom of movement in it. The folds and belt safely hid her jian and secured her weighted ribbon. Katara noted she hid her face and features well with the veil and makeup. She took her time with the warpaint markings to ensure that she was not exposing any skin that would give away her non-spirit status and snuck out of the house. She managed to climb out of the window in her father's study since it was the one room furthest away from the bedrooms and was only used now for Zuko and Iroh's meditation and bending sessions. She was careful not to close the window completely because that would be her way back in when she was done.

The city was still and strangely peaceful. Katara decided to practice using the water around her to make fog. Pakku told her that skill was a tactic used by the waterbenders of old to camouflage troops and fleets of ships and sneak up on the enemy. For now, she just found the act relaxing and soothing to her worried mind and bruised emotions. She called Azula who was quiet and subdued as soon as she got home from Tophia's. Katara had no doubt Azula was being listened to by her paranoid father so Katara kept her conversation light and superficial. She would find out in the morning what happened after they left. As Katara walked through the last patch of clouds she created, she finds herself in a strangely familiar alleyway. She sees the altar built for Atka Tungortok and the clear case that was supposed to hold the bone knife. Whoa! The knife was gone. Where was it? How was anyone able to break into the lock? As she looked deeper into the alley, she saw a lone figure in all black and wearing the familiar visage of Atka Tungortok. He stood facing the ethereal figure in red as if looking back at her though she couldn't see his eyes. The azure spirit attached the knife holster onto his belt and bowed low to her. The two stood and stared at one another for a long moment.

Zuko had a very strong feeling that he knew this apparition the same way he did when he saw Ang for the first time. Somehow this person was someone he knew from his past Zuko life. He secretly felt that he knew this woman better than most and was being reintroduced. Katara too felt like she knew Atka Tungortok as if they truly were the soulmates she read about online. She felt a strange connection to him that she didn't feel when he rescued her in what now felt like ages ago. Suddenly Katara is caught up in a vision that came to her unbidden: A flash. A battle. Blue clashes with red. A kiss. Then suddenly, as if in a moment of true recognition and rightness, Katara ran straight for Atka Tungortok and began to attack.

Zuko was caught off guard by her fluid yet unprovoked attack because he was still trying to figure out who she was and moved to the side just in time barely dodging the weighted ribbon she aimed at his mask. She unsheathed her Jian and began lunging and swinging with sure and deft steps at the Blue Spirit. The metal of her finely crafted blade sang with the movement of her attacks. Zuko dodged and parried gracefully careful to stay clear of the business end of her sword and the two began an intricate dance as old as the story of themselves. Sparks flew as the Jian connected with the stone walls above and below her well-aimed strikes at the Blue Spirit. Zuko secretly wished he had his duo Dao to even up the score. One strike came too close for comfort scraping against the top side of his mask and paring off a small wooden shaving. It fell to the ground and both spirits stopped to stare are what could have been an ear if the swing managed to meet its mark.

Ok, this was getting dangerous. Were they sparring or was she actually trying to kill him? The Blue Spirit moved to disarm the beautiful spirit-like wraith and stopped suddenly when he heard a scream coming from a few alleys over. The Spirit in red stopped her advances as well and turned toward the screams. They look at each other for only a moment as if in a silent agreement to go and see what was wrong. They both hold back a gasp as they recognize the woman as Song from Uncle's tea shop. She was in a desperate situation as two men fought to take her purse from her and drag her into the alley. Both spirits knew that it would not do for them to reveal they know the woman in case they perhaps knew the other. Song was being pulled deeper into the alley by two goons who were attempting to rob her though they both knew that wasn't all they planned to do to her.

As if understood, the dangerously beautiful painted lady and the menacing Blue Spirit began working together almost intuitively to defeat the would-be criminals. The thieves were surprised by the red and blue figures who wasted no time in getting to work. Zuko used his acrobatics and swift hand to hand to disorient and confuse one while Katara used her ribbon and Jian to subdue the other. When Katara needed a hand with the goon who was attempting to grab her arms she quickly tossed the sword to the Blue Spirit who didn't miss a beat and used the sword to sweep it under the legs of the man he was fighting and put him down. The other man was caught off guard when she threw the sword away and the Painted lady was able to take her ribbon, spin the man around and tie his arms behind him in a fluid and swift motion as though she were manipulating water. She kicked him in the back of the knees to force him to kneel and Zuko hit him in the head with the hilt of the jian. Both men lay unconscious on the ground. Song sat on the ground against the wall crying her breathing heavy and panicked though in her subconscious she knew she was safe now.

Song watched the figures approach her. She recognized the woman in red as the Painted Lady she knew from stories and tales she heard from her Fire Nation friends. Sadly, she remembered that Iroh Azulon's stories were the most beautiful. Song realized the other must be the paramour of the beloved spirit: her soulmate the Blue Spirit. It was said they were attracted by the opposition of the forces they represented. Fire and Water. Yet the paradox was that the Painted Lady was a river spirit from the Fire Nation. Perhaps the draw was in their shared love of their element.

The mysterious Painted Lady went over to Song and held out her hand to assist her with standing. As soon as Song stood, she winced in sharp pain and almost fell to the ground again. She looked to the area where she felt the sting and saw that she was bleeding. She had been stabbed unbeknownst to them by one of the men when Painted and Blue attacked. Katara took water from a canteen hidden in her skirts that she carried with her just in case she may have needed it. She drew water from it and her hand began to glow an ethereal blue. Zuko was glad for the mask covering his face as his eyes were blown wide as he watched in amazement. She's a waterbender? Wait. Is that a part of normal waterbending? She held the glowing hand over the wound where Song was hurt and Zuko gasped quietly as he watched the skin knit back together almost seamlessly. Zuko admired the care that the Painted Lady took in healing the woman and decided that he would do whatever he could to help her if she agreed to be a friend. Anyone with a gift so precious should be protected.

Song breathed a sigh of relief from the healing and smiled weakly. She had lost quite a bit of blood, but she was safe now. Katara masked her voice in a deeper timbre, "Although, I have healed you quite effectively, you should go to a hospital and be evaluated by a professional. They will confirm what I have done for you. File a report with the proper authorities so that justice may be served." Song nodded. She would not look the gift horse in the mouth. She was saved by a beautiful and skillful spirit and a terrifyingly strong and powerful demon. If she was being told to go to the hospital, then to the hospital she would go! Song was convinced now that the spirits were a pair. They were like perfect opposites: fire and ice. One was warm and passionate and caring and powerful, and the other cool and impassive but also open and highly skilled. She felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for them saving her and she bowed deeply. Thank you, Painted Lady and Blue Spirit, for saving me," she said. "I know that if you had not come to my aid, I would probably not be here right now. I am grateful for your assistance and your healing. How can I ever repay you mated spirits? At the words mated spirits Katara and Zuko looked at one another.

Neither said a word though they desperately wanted to protest. Somehow, they both knew that it wouldn't make much of a difference to Song and they actually did make a pretty good team. Though the mated part…They bowed back not as deeply and turned to walk away. Song called out to them. "Wait! What about these guys?" She pointed to her would-be attackers. Painted Lady and Blue Spirit turned back to look at the men who sought to hurt Song, and Zuko nodded to Song signaling with his body language that he wanted her to leave. Song didn't have to be told twice. Whatever was going to happen to those men was the will of the Spirits not her! She gathered her belongings that had fallen out of her purse and ran as quickly as she could to her apartment which was only a few blocks away. She would see her doctor and file a police report in the morning. Song would never forget the Spirits who saved her life today. She was one of the lucky ones who had help when all hope was lost. Song made the decision that she would be leaving Ba Sing Se immediately to go and live with her mother who ran a health store in Yu Dao. She couldn't bear to continue living in a city that was so violent and depraved.

Neither the Painted Lady nor Atka Tungortok spoke as they found the length of rope the two men had on them. It was ironic that the rope they hoped to use on Song or some other unsuspecting victim would now be the ropes that secured them to be brought to justice. They silently agreed that the best thing to do would be to leave them tied up and let the authorities find them once Song filed her report. It would appear strange to have two oddly dressed "spirits" drag bound men down the street to the police station and what would they say? Bag 'em and tag 'em boys? No, they would continue to work in anonymity and cloaked in mystery.

Though the spirits did not speak to one another they had an understanding borne from their experiences tonight. If they came across one another again, they would not meet as adversaries but as teammates. The Painted Lady would not attack again nor would Blue Spirit even any score. They would aid one another and work together to clean up the streets of Ba Sing Se: One criminal at a time if they had to. The Painted Lady returned the deep bow from earlier this evening and in a literal cloud of mystique she faded out of sight from her partner and "paramour" the Blue Spirit. Zuko smiled as he climbed to the rooftops to begin his journey back to the location he has called home for months now.

A/N: So whaddya think about this monstrous chapter? Should I have broken this into two parts? It is literally two chapters in one. Did it make sense? Can you follow what's going on? Questions that need answering... I haven't heard from you guys in a while so chime in! So a little trivia nugget: Yugoda's last name Ata is the Urdu for the word "giving". I thought it sounded Water Tribe-y when I wrote it even though I didn't know the meaning. It was super appropriate and honestly I was being adventurous, but my teacher nature got to me and I looked it up just to make sure I wasn't using an insult. Isn't it interesting how we may know more than we tap into with our human brains? I don't know when the next update will be because honestly how long do you guys think you'll be reading this? A few days? Weeks? I'll have plenty of time to post again LOL...