A/N: This is the final chapter of the Blue Spirit Awakens. It's so strange to see how this story title was actually supposed to be something like the Blue Spirit Returns but someone already had that title. Changing that one word changed everything, but in a good way. I am a firm believer that sometimes our actions, choices, etc. like ripples in a pond, lake, or river create a current that moves and changes the ripples of time and space. Some choices don't make much if any impact and others could be the turn of the tide. I am still deliberating on whether there will be an epilogue. We shall see. I also thought of another story spin-off from this one that involves our dearly departed Ang and Koko Mori. Again, we shall see. After my Princess Zuko genderbend AU, I will be putting out a new story about Kataang (just kidding, not about the story but about Kataang) that I think you will like. Guys this has been a remarkable journey for me. I started this story last year and never expected that it would become my most popular out of the six I have published. It has nearly three times the views of my other stories and the most favorites, follows, and reviews. That tells me a lot. Thank you for supporting me all this time and don't hesitate to tell me what you liked (or didn't) about this story. Of course as always if you likey, follow or favorite and drop me a review to let me know how this story went for you.
Disclaimer: Here's to final chapters. Fanfiction is for the what-ifs and suppositions. Fanfiction is for situations that could have happened and sometimes didn't...
Chapter 22: Second Life
Ang's memorial was a buoyant affair tinged with solemnity. The Gyatsos knew that Ang would never have settled for his friends being sad at the thought of his passing and requested the memorial remain positive and upbeat. Musicians representing every nation played wind and stringed instruments with a happy tempo. Drummers and dancers provided a lively mood that kept attendees smiling. The mortuary decorated a makeshift stage near the old location of the Jasmine Dragon with the colors of the Air Nation accented with hints of blue to represent the Water tribe heritage the family also possessed. The entire city of Ba Sing Se turned out for the celebration of Ang's life. Each of Ang's friends took turns saying something about him and there wasn't a dry eye to be found anywhere in those moments. When Koko Mori, his girlfriend, stepped up to speak the crowd was silent.
"Although many of you did not know Ang personally, I know he would be so happy to see that he brought the city of Ba Sing Se together. I just wish it wasn't for this…" Koko paused wiping away the tears that came unbidden. She closed her eyes against the encroaching sadness and gave herself a moment. Suki stepped up to her cousin and put her arms around her for support. Koko took a deep breath. She gave Suki a grateful smile and took another breath to steel herself as her cousin returned to her seat on the stage. Koko continued. "He once…Ang told me of a dream he had to see the world living in harmony." She said looking at the Gyatsos who were also wiping away the tears of sorrow. Koko scanned the crowd meeting some eye to eye. "He had been mistreated and misunderstood for years for being a bender. People who found out were always afraid of him and his abilities though he never once tried to use his ability to hurt or take advantage of anyone. All Ang ever wanted in this world was for people who were unique and different to have a chance to live in peace with others: To live in balance." Kids who teased Ang at school for being different shifted uncomfortably in their seats. Some of them knew that they were unkind or unnecessarily rude to him. Koko shook her head in disbelief.
"It's not fair that Ang lost his life to someone who used fear as his power over people: Fear of freedom and expression, fear of things out of his control, fear-based on superstitions and lies, fear bred out of a turbulent history. Ang saw hope in the promise of a law that would protect benders and their rights." Koko then turned to Zuko and Azula smiled briefly then turned back to the crowd. "There are others here who had been terrorized for their gifts from the spirits and they shouldn't have to live in fear of being who they are. As we reflect on the life of our friend and loved one, let us think about living out the legacy Ang tried to leave behind. Protect those who are unable to protect themselves and stand up for rights of all even if the opposition seems too strong. We owe it to Ang to have the same courage he showed in the face of evil. We are one nation, one family, one world. Let us make it a world not only Ang but all of us can be proud of in the future. Thank you." Koko said her voice strong but sad. Koko took a breath again as the crowd burst into raucous applause as she went down off the stage to hug the Gyatsos before sitting with her own parents.
As a final speaker for the service, Tophia, and Poppy Bei Fong went up to the podium together. Mother and daughter held on to one another as if neither would be able to stand if they didn't do it together. Tophia had already spoken on her friendship with Ang before but this time she was with her mother because they had a surprise for the Gyatsos and wanted to make the announcement together. "Hi again everyone, "Tophia began. The microphone squealed unexpectedly, and members of the audience moaned in annoyance. Tophia and her mother grimaced. Tophia began again. "My mother and I have come up because we wanted to make an announcement. Mother are you ready?" Tophia said urging her mother to speak up. Poppy smiled nervously as she looked to her friends. "Yangchen, Han, I know that this has been a difficult period in your lives for we feel it acutely as well. We all try to make sense of our loss and understand it when sometimes it isn't supposed to make sense." The crowd grew silent at Poppy's words remembering that she too lost her husband in that same attack for standing up for right against Ozai. Zuko gave Azula's hand a small squeeze. They heard the unspoken acknowledgment of their father's actions and though neither of them was responsible for what their father did, they still felt like it was their fault. Poppy looked back at the two teens and smiled to their surprise. She looked at Azula especially.
"My husband had a soft spot for people in his heart. Just like Ang, he cared about how people treated one another. It broke his heart to know that people who were supposed to be close to him were capable of hurting and mistreating those they were supposed to love and protect." Poppy looked out at the crowd once again then fixed her eyes on the Gyatsos. "Their sacrifices were not in vain. Your son and my husband gave up their lives so that our city could be a better and safer place to live. My daughter and I discussed a way we could honor both Ang and Lao and benefit the people of Ba Sing Se." She paused to collect herself and took a deep breath before continuing. She wiped a tear from her eye as she spoke. "As a result of our conversation, we created two foundations: The Ang Han Gyatso Scholarship Fund and the Lao Bei Fong Children's Protection Fund. Ang's scholarship will be available to any students who are benders graduating from high school or the equivalent to give assistance with attending Ba Sing Se University or another college of their choice." Yangchen placed her hand on her chest and breathed in sharply. Her eyes moistened as her husband pulled her close to him and rested his head on hers. Yanchen smiled at Poppy with joy and gratefulness. Poppy smiled in return.
"I thought you would like that. We're finding that there are more children exhibiting bending abilities who are being mistreated, abused, and disenfranchised as a result. In response to this, the foundation named after my husband will be for the victims of child abuse and child endangerment with special care in the case of children exhibiting bending abilities. Research shows that twenty-five percent of the suspected and indicated cases of abuse are of children with bending or perceived bending abilities. One in four children being abused in this city (that we know of) is benders. That's a significant number. The foundation will assist children who have been removed from homes or whose homes are under investigation for suspected abuse. The goal is to educate and provide resources to these families as needed." Tophia smiled and held her mother's hand as she continued. "The foundation will also assist children entered into the foster care system indefinitely to place them in loving and permanent homes leading to adoption." The crowd roared to life in enthusiastic applause for the bravery and willingness of Mrs. Bei Fong to challenge the current system and create resources that the city could appreciate and use. The crowd gave a standing ovation that lasted for several minutes. Poppy turned to look at Azula once again with a small loving smile. Azula looked at Poppy curiously until understanding dawned on her. Did Poppy want to adopt her? Azula's eyes widened in shock and Poppy smiled knowingly. They would be having a conversation soon.
Poppy waited for the crowd to calm before she closed her speech. "We have one more announcement for the city. As many of you know there was a project underway to create a new… more upscale merchant row in the middle ring. After losing Mr. Bei Fong, these actions gave me pause. My daughter and I had a long and hard discussion about the project and the ramifications of making such a drastic change to the middle ring. We sought advice and we considered what would happen to both the environment and the economy if we went forward with these plans my husband had." People in the crowd began murmuring and whispering among themselves about the rumored changes. Poppy pressed on. "We realized that some of the businesses in this community have been a staple of many households and have a long, tried, and true history in Ba Sing Se. Some businesses over the span of decades and centuries like the Jasmine Dragon, The Fancy Lady Day Spa, and others have been as much a part of Ba Sing Se as the great border wall. At the advice of some of the officials in the city, we researched the laws concerning historical buildings and locations and found that there are statutes in place to protect these places. My daughter and I have decided as interim chairs of the board to withdraw the bid to create this mega mall and instead to use our resources to revitalize the historic and preservation worthy middle ring's merchant row which includes bringing back the Jasmine Dragon and other businesses that were burned out, forced out or otherwise destroyed." The applause was deafening.
Merchants who were helpless to stop the impending changes celebrated because this meant that their way of life and futures would no longer be in jeopardy. Zuko, Katara, Sokka, and Suki got out of their chairs and celebrated giving one another hugs and high fives. They did it! This is what they were fighting to save. Though bittersweet, the victory was theirs and they did what they originally set out to do: save the Merchant's row and the middle ring of Ba Sing Se. Zuko looked up at the blue sky and whispered thanks to Ang for his help despite the fact he wasn't here anymore to appreciate the fruit of his labor. He felt a light breeze push his back at that moment and when he looked around Zuko thought he could see Ang standing next to Koko. Ang gave his wide goofy smile and waved. He shook his head blinking and looked again. Ang was gone. Katara touched his arm. "Everything alright, Zuko?" she asked concerned by the confusion on his face. Zuko smiled sheepishly rubbing the back of his neck with his hand. He blushed. "Yeah…Everything's OK." Katara sighed wistfully. "I wish Ang were here to see this," She said sadly. Zuko pulled her into a gentle embrace and whispered near her ear, "I think he knows, Kat." Katara looked up at Zuko. She smiled. "I have the feeling you're right," she said. Yangchen and Han Gyatso stood and walked up on the stage to Poppy and Tophia. They embraced each other and cried on one another at the wonderful news. Though the Gyatsos and Bei Fongs never would have desired to lose people they loved for these changes to happen, they were glad that there was indeed some good coming out of their loss and grief.
After the program adjourned, Poppy made her way to Azula and Zuko who were chatting with Hakoda and Gran-Gran. "This has been quite a day hasn't it?" she asked quietly as she walked up. Zuko and Azula looked at each other briefly and then to Mrs. Bei Fong. Zuko spoke up. "Yes, Mrs. Bei Fong it has." Poppy looked at Hakoda. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but may I borrow these two for a moment Ambassador Kuvira, Mrs. Kuvira?" Hakoda and his mother smiled graciously and walked off without saying a word. Azula and Zuko eyed each other wondering what Poppy wanted to talk about. It seemed the adults had a conversation without them. Poppy grinned genuinely and gestured, "Walk with me, children." Zuko and Azula walked on either side of Poppy as she moved down the lane that was beginning to empty from the crowds. "I had a long talk with Tophie about the two of you. Zuko, I know you are considered an adult and you are with the Kuviras right now, but I wanted to extend the invitation to both of you. My husband was actually in the process of requesting permanent guardianship over Azula before he…," Poppy trailed off for a moment not willing to finish her sentence. Poppy glanced over at Zuko who was looking at Azula and gauging her reaction. Azula blushed a deep crimson. The Bei Fongs were already working to take her in? She was grateful to them for rescuing her in her time of need, but she didn't want to say anything about her future. The fact that Azula was now an orphan terrified her. She was afraid that she would be relegated to the foster care system though even that was better than how she lived under her father. Poppy stopped walking when they reached the section of the merchant's row that was once the Jasmine Dragon. The area was devoid of other people. The road and ground were cleared, and only smooth packed earth remained. It was ready for a new beginning.
Poppy's tone became serious and earnest. "I want to know from both of you what you want to do in terms of your next steps. I want you to talk about it and decide as a family. You are all each other has left now and Tophia and I truly care about you and your futures. I am extending the offer to you both to be adopted by me and live with us until you can support yourselves on your own. That means graduating from college and maintaining a steady income. You would take the Bei Fong name for legal purposes, but that gives you access to whatever resources we have for you. Even after that, I would continue to support you as a parent would. I—we want to be there for you." Poppy admitted. Zuko and Azula once again eyed each other questioning with their looks before looking at Poppy Bei Fong. She didn't know that Uncle is still alive. He must remain incognito until the upcoming trial against the guilty councilmen and heads of the cartel. Azula spoke up first. "Would you mind if we took the time to think about what you are asking of us and discuss it? I think I can speak for both of us in saying we are beyond honored, and this is a big step for us, but we would like to take it with care. You're essentially asking us to give up our past and become new people." Poppy gave a smirk that was quite reminiscent of Tophia when she's up to something. She leaned in closely and whispered. "If you're worried about what your uncle will think, I've already discussed it with him." She stepped back to let what she said sink in. Zuko managed to widen both eyes and Azula's mouth dropped open in shock. Poppy giggled. "Iroh is willing to support you both either way, but he wants the final decision to be yours. You both deserve a chance to live your lives without any unnecessary trauma. Being teenagers is hard enough and too often choices that should have belonged to you were taken away. So, I want this decision to be purely your own. Just know that Tophie and I support you and will help you both regardless. How much time do you think you will need?" she asked sincerely. Zuko and Azula had never been in this situation before. They had an opportunity to decide the kind of life they wanted to live? It was like a dream. Azula snuck a glance at Zuko who was stealing a glance at her. They laughed when their eyes met, and they knew already what they would do but they still thought they should have a talk about it. Zuko spoke up this time. "If you don't mind, could we have the day to think about it? We can let you know what we decide tomorrow." Poppy was thoughtful. "Hmm. How about this—The two of you let me know in three business days what you would like to do. Today is Saturday so three business days would be next Wednesday. We can all talk over dinner. What do you think about that?" Poppy said cheerfully. "I think that would be perfect," Azula answered with Zuko nodding in agreement. Poppy opened her arms to give the siblings a hug which they received without complaint. It's not every day someone offers to become your mother.
The period before the trial of the Blue Spirit was insane. Inmates at the prison wouldn't touch Andre Wei because he was the killer of both Mo Zhou and Ozai Azulon. Many were too awestruck to challenge him especially when they realized why he did it. Several inmates knew his daughter when she was alive and working at Doc's bar and knew that she was a good person who didn't take shit from anyone. What Mo Zhou did to her was disgusting and Ozai was dirtier for ordering her death in such a cruel way just for turning him down. Andre would sit quietly to himself reading or working out on weight equipment waiting for his trial. No one could blame him for getting revenge. Most of the men were too afraid to approach him about how he managed to kill the councilman because many of them knew him to be Ozai's bodyguard and driver when he was still on the streets. If anyone was upset about what he did, they didn't show it. Andre didn't care either way. He had done what was necessary and he would pay whatever consequence he had to now that his daughter's death was avenged. He felt like she could finally be at rest and so could he. A guard called across the yard. "Prisoner 54433221—Wei, you have a visitor. Andre looked up in surprise. He stood up closing his book and walked over to the guard who called him. The guard proceeded to put cuffs and manacles on his wrists and ankles. The young man looked at Andre apologetically. He didn't want to treat the man as an animal. In his eyes, Andre was a hero. The guards had respect for the man who stopped a monster and his boss from ruining any more lives. More than a few families had been destroyed by the likes of Mo Zhou and Ozai Azulon. He moved slowly with the chains rattling and restricting his stride. They brought Andre to a concrete room with glass windows and a heavy metal door. When he entered the room, the detective lady was sitting in a chair eyeing him curiously. He noted that she had no fear of him only interest. That made him nervous.
She gave him a small smile before greeting him. "Good Afternoon Mr. Wei, I'm Detective Korra Jiang. I just wanted to ask you a few questions if you don't mind." Andre smirked. "Where's my lawyer? I don't think I should be answering any of your questions without him." Korra smirked back. "I suppose that would be true if I was on your case, but I'm not. It's a conflict of interest. I'm here to satisfy personal curiosity." She said. Andre raised an eyebrow. "Personal curiosity? How does that work? You get me to talk and then send me down the river? No thanks." Korra nodded then shrugged. "Fair enough. How about I do all the talking and you just listen? I think then we'll come to an understanding of some things." She said. Andre eyed her suspiciously. "You've brought me here just so you can talk?" He sighed as he thought about what her endgame was. "I suppose I don't have anything else to do right now." He groused. Korra chuckled. "I want you to know that I told the courts what you did for the Azulon children regarding their father Ozai. How you protected them and spared them from some pretty abusive situations and maybe even from committing murder. You saved their lives. Azula told us how you took her to the Bei Fongs to protect her when her father almost killed her. Zuko told me how you saved his life because Ozai was going to shoot him that night he died."
Korra clucked her tongue softly. "This world hasn't been kind to you Andre Wei. Not at all. I hate how the force handled your daughter's murder. It was the worst fuck up I'd ever seen." She declared incredulously devolving to a deep sorrowful frown. Her heart was broken at how badly the police force let her and women everywhere down that day. Korra shook her head fighting the tears that threatened to fall. She ran her fingertips under her lower eyelids to catch the tears. "There was no fucking way with all that evidence available that Mo Zhou should have been able to walk! There was corruption in the force, Andre. I know that now. Back then, I was just a rookie cop trying to stay employed and I had no sway. They always sent me to get coffee." Korra said bitterly. Andre knew then that she was about to tell him something he couldn't confirm back then but deep down he knew. She wet her lips and began again. "The senior officers were all dicks and chauvinists that acted like June had it coming. That she deserved— I hated them for that." She pounded the table angrily thumping in a slow heated rhythm. "I wondered how many of them were also turned down by her and felt like her death was justified. I don't think about the answer much because I already know, and it sickens me. No one, absolutely no one, deserves to be raped, killed, and mutilated. No one deserves to be treated like garbage in life or death. Thinking that way makes those guys no better than the animal that did it to her. That's what hurt you so much." She said nodding. Andre's eyes bucked. Korra pushed on. She had to say what she came to say. "You were looking for justice from a bunch of criminals. They had no honor and I'm sure they were in Ozai's pockets. What hurt me most was that June and I were the same age; you know. It could have easily been me too." She mourned her face pinched in pain.
Andre stared at the detective who kept her word and did all the talking but magically got to the heart of the matter. Like a book, she opened him all the way up and read even the deepest of his secrets. Korra stood suddenly and bowed low. Lower than even the Earth King would receive formally. She was begging his forgiveness. "I want to apologize for the way we, and I do mean we, let you down, Mr. Wei. You deserved justice for June, and we couldn't or wouldn't give it to you. I don't blame you for what you did to Mo Zhou or Ozai Azulon. I could lose my job for saying this, but I don't care: If we had done our jobs right, you would not have had to wait fifteen years to be at rest. There are people I believe who would still be alive today and you could be breathing and walking in the free air." Andre's eyes watered at her confession. This tiny knowledge that someone saw and understood made his decision worth it. Andre knew then without a doubt that he wouldn't worry anymore about his future. He was vindicated. Someone knew the truth. All of it. Someone understood his why. He could let it all go now. Korra continued, "If you cannot find it in your heart to forgive that's OK, Andre. I know for me; however, I can't go another day without letting you know how miserably we failed you and it was wrong. We wronged you. I've spent the last fifteen years trying to make up for that by trying to be a voice for the voiceless: the Junes, the Zukos, and the Azulas of this city and I hope that one day I can somehow make things right." Korra said her face drenched in tears of remorse and disappointment. Andre too had tears streaking his face, but his tears were tears of release and relief. His voice cracked as he spoke up.
"Detective Jiang, you already have made things right. Thank you for coming and telling me this." He whispered. Korra wiped tears from her eyes and gave a small smile. "I wish I could have done more back then." She lamented. Andre shook his head. "You learned from it. You decided to care, and you gave a damn. You couldn't help what your superiors did, but you're doing what can be done now. You saved the Azulon kids too, Detective. Even when you knew Ozai was guilty of burning his boy and couldn't get Zuko or Azula to testify, you stayed with them. You didn't give up and you found a way to save them. As much as I hated Ozai, I cared about his children. They were nothing like him and were innocent. Just trying to survive in a hostile environment. His children were the only good thing that bastard ever did, and he despised them." His jaw twitched at the thought of the cruelty Ozai showed Zuko and Azula. "I only wanted those children to be safe because they weren't and no one else could see it. I couldn't rest until they were safe." Andre said sniffling and wiping tears even with his handcuffs. He looked Korra in the eye and said with confidence. "I know I can't get my June back, and I may be going away for a long time, but you helped me find my peace. I'll never forget that, and I do forgive you." Korra closed her eyes and nodded. She tapped the window to indicate that she was done with the visit and didn't say anything as she gave Andre one last look. Andre smiled at her and nodded. They were good. Korra smiled lightly and left the prison with a new determination to make sure that the police force got the cleanup it desperately needed and the people of Ba Sing Se deserved.
Wednesday came quickly to the Azulon siblings. Azula sat down with her uncle and brother over the weekend and discussed the deal on the table from Mrs. Bei Fong. This Wednesday they were making sure that the decision they made was the one they wanted. Iroh knew that the children would prefer to stay together and urged them to make a choice that would allow them to meet their emotional as well as physical needs. He knew that he would not be able to provide them with a stable home until the trials were over and he was able to walk and live free again. "What Mrs. Bei Fong has offered you is quite generous and kind. I do believe she is very fond of you both and wants to give you stability in this unstable time. Tophia adores both of you and already sees you as siblings." Iroh stated. Zuko was pensive. "Adoption is such a big step. What if we become her children and suddenly it all proves to be too much or it's not what she expected?" Azula sighed. "Well, Poppy Bei Fong is not an impulsive person. If she has made the offer it is because she had time to think about it. She told me in the hospital that she suspected something was wrong since the night of the sleepover, but she didn't realize that things were so bad for us until Andre brought me to them. Tophia is very much like her mother and doesn't just make spur of the moment decisions especially with the important things, so I don't think this is emotional." Iroh smiled at his niece's thought process. "Indeed Azula. Poppy and Tophia are perhaps two of the bravest and most thoughtful people I know to have such tragedy befall them and still have the heart and mind to care for and love others. I do believe that what they want to do is genuine," he said. Zuko nodded.
"Well, then. What do you want to do Azula?" he asked sincerely. Azula pressed her lips together. She looked at her brother and uncle for a long moment. "I want to stay with the Bei Fongs. I think it would be a good opportunity for both of us. It would allow the Kuviras to find some sense of normalcy since they've had long term guests for over a year. Plus, it is kind of weird for you to be living in your girlfriend's house. You guys have absolutely no privacy and nowhere to go to make out. Have you two even had sex yet? Nevermind. I'm sure you haven't; Katara would have said something by now. You two will never have sex if you stay here. Which would probably be a benefit in Mr. Hakoda's mind? Hmmm. Yeah, we should move." Azula declared. Zuko laughed heartily holding on to his side. He suddenly stopped laughing and looked around him quickly for Detective Hakoda. Hakoda hearing that kind of conversation would be a quick way for Zuko to make himself newly single. Whether he got to sleep with Katara or not Zuko realized that perhaps it was time to find a new normal. They were starting life again.
With Ozai dead, his dealings uncovered both financial and moral scandals, and everything Ozai owned had been seized and his assets frozen which meant Zuko and Azula had nothing to themselves but their lives. They were very rich in the sense that there were people who cared about them and provided for them without complaint, but it was time for the Azulon siblings to find their path and hopefully give back to people like the Kuviras and the Jiangs who risked so much to help them and loved them without conditions. Zuko smiled. "So, then it looks like we've reached a consensus?" Azula smiled back at her brother. "I think so if you agree, Onii chan." Zuko nodded. Uncle Iroh wiped a tear at their decision and smiled knowing that they were finally finding the rest of the spirit they deserved. He sent a silent thanks to Agni and picked up his phone. "I believe it's time for you two to go have dinner with your new mother and sister." He said with a smile as he dialed Poppy Bei Fong.
It was a bittersweet parting for Zuko and Azula from the Kuvira's. Hakoda and Gran-Gran knew that the decision they made was for the best. The house was at capacity and was creating a strain on the family's budget. Hakoda reminded the children that they were welcome anytime and that they would be seeing each other every day at school and wherever they decided to make their new hang out spot. The teens and adults gave hugs in abundance. When Zuko was hugged by Hakoda, Mr. Kuvira leaned in close and whispered. "Just know that I have multiple ways of hurting you if you even think about having sex with my daughter." Zuko's eyes widened and he stared straight ahead. Detective Hakoda had to have heard the conversation between Azula and himself. Was he just destined to wait another lifetime for Katara? Hakoda gave Zuko a healthy slap to the back and Zuko nearly fell over. Abstinence it is. Iroh looked away and Sokka snickered while elbowing a smirking Azula knowing what Hakoda implied. Katara walked over to Zuko and sighed rolling her eyes. "Don't worry about it: Dad's just being overprotective. Don't let him scare you." Zuko gave Katara a doubtful look as he grabbed his bags and headed for the car. Katara sent her father a pouting glare. Hakoda raised his arms in a shrug of confusion. As Azula walked out chuckling at her brother's dilemma, Sokka carried her bags to the car waiting for them.
Azula and Zuko had been living with Poppy and Tophia for several months now. With anything new, there was an adjustment period to having the two teens there, but the new fledgling family was making it work. Zuko was immediately re-enrolled in school under an accelerated program. He was allowed to take as many exit exams for courses as he could to get the necessary credits to graduate as close to on time as possible. Zuko missed over a year of school while he was under Korra's police protection and had quite a bit of catching up to do. Fortunately for him, Katara made it her point to share her books with him and any lessons and homework she had so that he would stay current and not have too large of a slide in his learning. Principal June Wei, the former mathematics teacher and newly promoted principal of BSSHS, gave Zuko a special exception under the circumstances of his truancy. She wouldn't have been Ms. June if she didn't give some sort of admonition.
"Don't think that because I'm giving you this break that means you get to lollygag and fool around Mr. Azulon-Bei Fong. I fully expect you to give me your maximum effort. Under normal circumstances, I would have you repeat the year you missed, but I'm doing this as a favor for my ex-husband. He thinks very highly you Zuko, and honestly so do I. You've had to overcome a lot and…I mean this sincerely, I'm proud of you, Zuko. Proud of you and Azula. Something about you two gave Andre hope." Zuko stared wide-eyed at the woman who used to instill a godly fear of trigonometry and time management in him. Andre was married to Ms. June? Zuko quickly made the calculations. Andre's daughter was named June. This Ms. June would be the right age to have a daughter Korra's age. She was named after her mother. Suddenly a picture became much clearer of the story that led Andre and Zuko's paths to cross and why certain people made some of the choices they did. Zuko bowed to June with deep respect. "Thank you, Ms. June. I will do my best to live up to your expectations. I have high respect for Andre too. He saved me. Twice that I know of…" Ms. June tried to discreetly wipe away the water pooling in her eyes. Her voice trembled slightly. "Well if that's the case then, please do us both a favor, and don't let us down. Keep being the young man he bragged about to me, OK?" she said allowing herself this one moment to show Zuko her human side. Zuko felt a small lump in his throat as he bowed again and nodded. "I promise." He said simply. June Wei smirked with a hint of a smile and waved Zuko off to get to class. Zuko smiled in return and left so that he wouldn't be late for his Advanced Bending Theory Class with Mr. Jeong Jeong.
As he walked along the hallway, he felt a heavy hand on his shoulder. "Hey, Hey Azulon-Bei Fong! What's up, man? Where you been?" Zuko rolled his eyes at Jet Liu's greeting. "I'm late, man. Leave me alone." Jet poked out his bottom lip. "Aw come on man! Are you still sore about detention? I thought you would have let it go by now. I was thinking maybe we could be friends, you know. I mean this is our senior year and all." Jet said wiggling his eyebrows. Zuko felt his eye twitch. "Uh, I think I'm good. Besides, after that rave and all those pictures of you floating on the Interwebs, my mom wouldn't approve." Jet visibly blanched and stopped walking at the reminder of the infamous "pictures" that are supposed to be floating on Instagrabs of him doing wild and weird things in a tub. Zuko knew there were no pictures, but Jet really had no way of knowing that for sure. Zuko decided he would extend an olive branch. He held out his hand. "How about we agree not to annoy one another this year and just be cordial instead." Zuko offered. Jet looked at Zuko's hand and chuckled. He grabbed it and gave it a hearty shake and patted Zuko on the shoulder. "You got it, buddy. See you around campus." Jet said with a smile. Zuko shook his head and smirked as Jet walked off. "Bro, I thought I told you that if you didn't make eye contact with a Jet, it wouldn't look at you." Sokka chastised playfully. Zuko laughed. "Eh, he's not so bad once you get to know him." Sokka gave Zuko a doubtful look. Zuko punched Sokka in the arm. "Welcome back, buddy. I'm glad we're going to be doing our Senior year together. It wouldn't have been the same without you." Sokka grinned widely showing off his pearly whites. "Aww, don't go getting all sentimental on me, bro." he teased. Zuko rolled his eyes and started walking. "We're late for class. You know how Jeong Jeong hates latecomers," he said.
Sokka shrugged and started running down the hall past Zuko. Zuko laughed as he took off after Sokka. They were neck and neck before reaching the door of the classroom and tried to come to a full stop. Sokka hit a wall and Zuko got hooked by the doorknob and shouted "Ack!" as he crumpled to the floor in a heap of uniform and bookbag. Sokka laughed hysterically as he dusted off his uniform and held his hand out to Zuko who was on the floor laughing too. When they opened the door, Jeong Jeong was not impressed. "So glad to see that the two of you will be joining me for detention today. I was starting to get lonely afterschool. Be there at 3:05, not a minute after or it will be two days, and by all means, find your seats gentlemen." He said with an authoritative smile. Zuko took a deep breath and sat in his chair. He didn't look at Sokka who was clearly sorry he led his friend into trouble already. He would make it up to him after detention. It was times like these that Sokka wished the Jasmine Dragon 2.0 was ready. Not long after Azula and Zuko were officially adopted, Poppy Bei Fong got right to work on rebuilding the new Jasmine Dragon Tea House. She found some old photos of the original and asked that the builders create the same feel and style of the original but to build it up to the most modern safety codes. Poppy wanted her investment to last for a long, long time and she planned on hiring Iroh Azulon to be the new manager until either Zuko or Azula could take over. Poppy wanted to keep the tea house culture alive and well in Ba Sing Se as well as create a legacy for her new children. Iroh's duty to testify against the crimes of his brother and other councilmen who were involved in the conspiracy to destroy the middle ring was almost complete and Iroh would soon be able to live his life in the open once again.
Those attending the trials were amazed to see the old man sitting on the stand telling the tale of deceit, jealousy and revenge concocted by his brother. Iroh was not deceased as previously believed. He told how he and his nephew hid away with the Ambassador Kuvira until he was safe enough to testify. Many people began to understand that nothing was truly as it seemed concerning the dark world of Ozai Azulon. His crimes extended far beyond the obvious situations of attempting to murder his brother, son, and daughter. The testimonies of the shamed councilmen also brought to light many missing person stories, unexplained "accidents" and the systematic and blatant execution of people who were killed at Ozai's command. According to Andre Wei's testimony, Ozai was responsible for the murder of Jee On Ji one of his closest associates. It was discovered that he was a fire bender and was killed on the spot. His daughter Jin On-Ji was taken by Long Feng's minions and "re-educated" because it was suspected that she found out about how her father really died and was threatening to expose it. She was also beginning to question re-education and grew suspicious after talking with a classmate who had undergone the process. When it was done to her, the hypnotism broke her mind, and she was left to her mother to care for her indefinitely. Police said her state was the result of a drug overdose which her mother never once believed. Jin did not recover from the tampering.
The courts discovered that there was an entire system in place at the high school under Long Feng's direction that trafficked students by hypnotism to commit crimes all over the city and in one case to take the blame for a high-profile crime. Jiro Watanabe was chosen to be the fall guy for Mo Zhou's death. He was beginning to break from his mind control often and was too unstable to continue to use in that way. At Long Feng's and Andre Wei's confessions, Jiro was released immediately from prison and his charges dropped. The only downside to the testimony during the trials was that Ozai was no longer alive to answer for his crimes though not a few attendees considered how he died to be exactly what he deserved. By the end of it all, seven councilmen were removed from their posts in service to the Earth King and sentenced to prison for their crimes against the citizens of Ba Sing Se and treason against the country. It was discovered that Ozai's original plan not only included taking over the Middle Ring's commerce and economy he also planned to garner enough support to overthrow the current Earth King Kuei and make himself the new ruler. The judge thanked Iroh profusely for his testimony and patient dedication to justice. He had given up over a year of his life for his brother's traitorous behavior to be stopped and the city appreciated his sacrifice. Within a few months after Iroh's testimonies, the Jasmine Dragon was complete and Iroh happily accepted becoming the manager. He hired several new servers including Koko Mori and Suki. The grand re-opening of the Jasmine Dragon was an enormous affair. Lines of people once again wrapped around the building and showed no signs of stopping. Citizens wanted to see for themselves that the elderly gentleman Iroh Azulon was alive and well serving tea and making pastries.
This day, Katara and Zuko managed to snag their favorite booth so that they could spend some time together outside of school. Because Detective Hakoda was completely convinced that Zuko was planning on "de-flowering" his sweet, innocent, precious baby girl (his words not theirs), he pulled the reins on allowing the couple too much alone time. Alone time was just how he and his wife had Sokka and Katara and they were just too young for such a thing. Zuko sat smiling at Katara. He was just about to tell her something when two girls walked up to the table unexpectantly. "So, it looks like you finally got the courage to talk to her. How's it going you two?" Mai asked with a knowing smirk on her face. Ty Lee was holding her two fists up to her mouth to keep from screaming out in excitement, but her eyes told the whole story. She was beyond excited for the couple. Katara looked up at Mai and smiled. "Yes, he did. How are you Mai, Ty Lee? Azula and I missed seeing you at the Young Ladies' League meetings." Mai rolled her eyes. "Yeah, I know. My mom somehow managed to have another baby and I've been helping her with my little brother, Thomas. If I weren't so busy babysitting sometimes, I would be there, believe me." She said matter of factly. Ty Lee jumped up and down in excitement. She saw how Zuko and Katara's auras were complementary and happy. Zuko was finally with someone who makes sense for him in this lifetime. Ty Lee bent down and whispered in Zuko's ear, "It's about time your souls caught up to one another. Your auras are perfect together. I'm so happy for you both. Make sure I get an invite to the wedding." At her last words, Zuko inhaled sharply and began to cough putting his fist up to his mouth. He didn't expect a mention of marriage though that wasn't an idea off the table just not now. Ty Lee righted herself and laughed as she skipped off to the counter to order her tea. Mai again rolled her eyes at her friend who seemed to live and breathe eccentricity. "I'd better make sure she doesn't go and freak out the servers at the counter. By the way, I think you make a lovely couple, too. You complement each other well." Mai said with a small smile. Zuko and Katara looked up at her with surprise. She was sincere in her compliment. Mai smirked again and walked off to go and calm the wild and free Ty Lee. Zuko and Mai lost contact after the insanely dramatic birthday party that changed his life. He saw from her statement that she held no resentment from his rejection of her and that she was good. They were good. Zuko visibly relaxed and gave Katara another smile. He knew he was with the one he loved, the one who gave him lots of reasons to smile and keep striving.
Detective Hakoda came into the tea house and turned to the left and right as if searching for someone. When he laid eyes on Katara he smiled to see his daughter sitting a reasonable distance away from her boyfriend and walked up to them. "Katara, Zuko, how are you two? I was hoping to find you here." He said with a grin his voice overly bright. "Have you seen Sokka?" Katara smirked at Zuko who chuckled in amusement. Hakoda knew they would be here because they told him they would. Hopefully one day he will relax and realize that they had no intention of disappointing him or Poppy anytime soon. "I think he might be helping Suki move some boxes in the back," Zuko answered. Hakoda nodded and slid into the booth next to his daughter. " I could use a cup of tea. I have something to celebrate." Hakoda said mischievously as he flagged a server down to his table. Koko Mori came to the table wearing a crisp white apron green shirt and pants. "Good Afternoon Ambassador Kuvira, welcome to the Jasmine Dragon 2.0. How may I serve you?"She said with a smile. Hakoda gave a wide grin. "Could you start by telling my son that his father doesn't want to come back to the kitchen and discover he's in any sort of compromising position so could he come out and sit with his old man and have a cup of jasmine?" he asked. Koko blinked and tried to hold back her smile. "I'll be right back..." she said with mirth. Within moments, Sokka was running out of the kitchen barely missing a server bringing in pots and cups and slid into the booth next to Zuko pushing him into the wall and window sill near their booth. Zuko's eye twitched in annoyance at his friend's abruptness and lack of decorum.
"Hey, Dad! Koko will be right out with that Jasmine tea. When did you get here?" Sokka asked breathlessly. Hakoda smirked. "A few moments ago. I just had something I wanted to share with the three of you. Something I think you would all appreciate." The three teens eyed Hakoda curiously. Koko arrived at just that moment with the Jasmine teapot and cups and a few mango moonpeach tarts since Katara and Zuko were out of theirs. She wordlessly collected the empty pot of Zuko and Katara's and replaced it with a fresh pot of Ginseng. Koko smiled, bowed, and returned to serve other customers. Hakoda remarked in passing, "It's good to see that girl smiling again..." The three teens smiled sadly at the thought of why she was ever sad in the first place. "Yeah..." Katara remarked distantly. Zuko not wanting the mood to sour spoke up. "So, what did you want to tell us, Mr. K?" Hakoda shook off his reverie and smiled with a heavy sigh. "Well kids, something happened at the court today." Three sets of eyebrows raised. Before they could ask questions Hakoda added, "With the removal of the Council members several appointments opened up. The Earth King spoke to me personally and requested that I take one of the open Council positions. I accepted of course. He told me that he would have had asked me sooner than this, but most of the councilmen had lifetime positions. He said that he never met a more upright and influential leader in the community and would be honored if I work by his side. What do you guys think of that?" The children gave each other high fives and aahed at the great news. Katara was the first to speak up. "Dad this is so great for us, but what about the Ambassadorship, who will replace you to care for the tribe?" she asked with concern. Hakoda smiled and wiggled his eyebrows. "I wouldn't dare leave the tribe out in the cold so to speak. I spoke to your uncle Bato and he will be coming to replace me," he said. Sokka whooped with excitement. "Uncle Bato's coming? This is great!" Zuko tilted his head. "Who's Bato? I thought you were an only child?" he asked to Hakoda. Hakoda smiled. "Bato is my adopted brother. We are such close friends he's family like you and Sokka," he answered matter of factly. Zuko nodded. "Cool, I can't wait to meet him," he said with a smile.
The Kuviras and Zuko sat around the table drinking tea and eating tarts. Iroh joined them for a brief moment when things slowed down and Suki joined the table after her shift. Koko came to the table for just a moment to say good night and head home. She waved happily as she bid them farewell. The night was growing later. Before encouraging everyone to return home Iroh came with a fresh pot of tea and poured some in everyone's glasses. " I think a toast is in order. We have much to celebrate and appreciate in this new age." Iroh said sagely. "I think it would be a good idea for each of us to say something before we drink. Perhaps just a sentence. I will begin if you don't mind." he added. Each person picked up their cups and waited. "Here is to bittersweet victories and starting anew." Iroh began. "Here's to brave sacrifices and justice being served," Hakoda added. "Here's to restoring balance and ending a reign of cruelty," Sokka said. "Here's to family bonds that go beyond blood," Katara said smiling. "Here's to friendships that withstand the test of time, life, and death," Suki smiled. "Here's to never giving up on our present and our future. Here's to bettering our world. Here's to us..." Zuko said softly raising his cup. Iroh nodded. "Here's to us." The group echoed clinking their cups together. "Here's to us."
THE END