Chapter 58: The Endless Night: Part 1
The world around me seemed to close in. My body was stiff and my lungs tight as I realized I didn't know how to react. The Fire Lord stood before me, his dark gold eyes seeming to pierce through my soul like a jagged knife. He had already threatened to hurt my people if I tried to run, so in order to protect the ones I love I had to be brave. I could not show him I was afraid. I would not grant him that privilege.
Of course, hiding your fear is impossible when the leader of your greatest enemy stands before you. I'd heard rumors of Fire Lord Ozai from the tales that carried through my small tribe. I'd learned of his true cruelty from the stories that Zuko and Iroh told me during our travels. Every description of the man before me was something horrible, and I could see from his appearance he was a callous person indeed.
The Fire Lord before me was the very man that burned and banished the love of my life. He promoted Zhao and sent his men to try and wipe out the rest of my people. He sent an assassin after me... He was the cause of pain and suffering over the last few years across all nations.
The Fire Lord looked me over from head to toe in silent observation. His judgment only made me wish I were invisible. His eyes scanning over me felt like fire moving across my skin. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined I'd ever be in this monster's lair.
Being Zuko's prisoner, I suppose I'd always assumed I'd convince him to let me go. Being Zhao's prisoner, I believed deep down I'd be saved. Now as I stood before the very leader that caused the course my life had taken, I realized I should've always assumed this would happen. I should've anticipated that I'd end up in the chamber of my greatest enemy. I should've prepared myself for my inevitable destiny of facing the ruthless ruler of the Fire Nation.
Finally, after a long and endless silence, Ozai stepped forward with his hands behind his back and victory etched across his dark expression.
"Finally, we meet at last... the young woman who stole my son's heart and his loyalty is in my presence…" He smirked. "It's Crystal, correct?" He spoke my name in a way which radiated shivers down my spine. He didn't wait for me to respond. "I'm thrilled to finally have one out of two of the last waterbenders of the Southern Water Tribe under my control. You and your sister have evaded my men for far too long." He crossed his arms over his chest as he observed me. "I was informed almost six years ago that my father's men killed the last waterbender of the Southern Water Tribe. But it turns out they only killed a woman protecting the true targets. I must say, I'm disappointed they were so easily fooled. Your sister was a lucky little waterbender that day..." He stared at my scar. "However, you did not get to share her fortune it seems."
The fact he knew about my sister did not surprise me. However, him mentioning her existence and wishing she had died made me grit my teeth. This man had no right to speak of her.
He noticed my glower, and he was intrigued. "Protective of your family, I see. That's one thing that sets you apart from Zuko. My son turned against his sister and I. He left his Uncle behind. Clearly, he does not value family like you."
His verbal attack towards Zuko made me defensive. "You speak foolishly. Zuko regrets everyday leaving Iroh behind. You don't know anything about him."
My defiance amused Ozai further. He broke the distance and I was amazed that my knees didn't give out right then and there as the monster approached. As Ozai stood not even a foot in front of me to survey me from head to toe, I could see nothing of resemblance to that of his son. Zuko and his father were nothing alike, and this relieved me.
"I was wondering when I'd get to finally hear your voice. You've been so silent since you were brought here I feared you were going to be a bore. The rumors were true though… It's quite beautiful… Your voice, I mean." He frowned. "I'm afraid you are right about my lack of understanding towards Prince Zuko. When I banished my son, I did not realize that doing so would break his loyalty to me." He shook his head. "I'd received word from Prince Zuko months ago that he was pursuing the Avatar and that he had a waterbender to bring to me as well once he captured the boy." He sneered. "Then not even a month after that letter, I received another from Admiral Zhao that my son had fallen for his waterbending prisoner… Of course, I can understand why. My son was always a fool. Too compassionate to those lower than him. His mother taught him the ways of her upbringing. That sentiment is what makes him weak."
His continuous insults towards his son and late wife made my teeth grit harder. I was trying not to open my mouth and get in trouble, but I really wanted to curse the sadistic beast before me.
The Fire Lord continued as if I were not glaring daggers into his soul.
"I have to say… The fact he fell for someone of the Water Tribe… a complete opposite to our people… a washed out Chief's daughter… It's an ultimate disappointment, but I am not surprised."
Ozai stepped around me then, circling me like a buzzardwasp. As he moved behind me, I felt my skin prickle along with his presence.
"Zuko has always been weak like his mother. His heart has always been too soft and tender. I'm quite curious though... no… Intrigued actually. How is it that such a woman such as yourself wooed my son while his prisoner? From what I know of Prince Zuko, he has always been focused on his status: Seeking my favor, and spending years searching for an Avatar I did not expect to be found… How did a peasant from the Southern Water Tribe sway him from his original desires?"
He stepped back in front of me.
"I suppose I know the answer. You two were alone on that ship for a very long time. I also heard you shared a room during your journey together." He chuckled. "You must've kept him great company… I suppose it was only a matter of time your relationship became more than just his bed whore."
His words horrified me. I snapped. "How dare you! Zuko never touched me the way you're implying!"
The Fire Lord's brow rose. "How dare I? Why else would a beautiful waterbender like yourself be kept in my son's quarters." He leaned forward. "If it were me in his position-"
I cut him off. "But it wasn't."
The Fire Lord's lips smacked shut and he was immediately infuriated by my interruption. I did not sway from my courage. I would be brave, just as my mother would've been if she were in my situation. I would show the Fire Lord I was more than just a peasant. I was the daughter of a chief.
"You know nothing about your son, Ozai." I met his eyes with as much nerve as I could. "He's a good man, and he has a good heart. The only way I won your son is by seeing what you tried to destroy, and mending those shattered pieces of back together. I showed him what love and joy is. Something you couldn't even give to your wife. I reminded Zuko that he was a far better man than you, and that built our bond. With my acceptance of his true self, he came to realize there was more to life than pleasing you. You lost your control of him because he found what he truly was looking for… family and friends." I smirked. "And of course, he realized he would never truly please you anyway because you are an awful and heartless father."
A hard sting rang on the left side of my face suddenly, and I stumbled back dizzy from the strike Ozai had sprung at me with his hard hand. My words must've struck him painfully and he lashed out in revenge. I'd damaged his pride. Despite the pain this greatly satisfied me.
"Insolent wench! I see your time in the wilderness has made you forget one thing," Ozai hissed. "You are in my domain, and you will not disrespect me." He grabbed my chin hard and forced me to look into his stabbing gaze. "What would your father say if he heard his little princess show such disrespect to her elders?"
I grit my teeth as my cheek continued to sting. Tears burned in my eyes as I stayed strong despite the pain. "My father would be proud of me for speaking this way to a bastard like you."
At first he went to slap me again. However, he stopped with his hand raised, and then he lowered it. He released me slowly, his rage simmering as amusement flashed across his expression. He looked me over with sudden intrigue.
"Hmm… I see the rumors about you are definitely true. You do have the strength and tongue of a Chief's daughter... Unfortunately, that won't be enough to save you here." He stroked his sharp beard. "I've pondered over what to do with you. Do I kill you? Lock you away? Force you into servitude? All of these decisions have mulled in my mind, but I realize at the end of the day there is really only one thing to do with a girl like you."
He inched forward as he stared deep into my narrowed gaze. "Why lock you away, when I can doll you up and make you my little caged bird… I hear you have a beautiful voice." He took a strand of my long hair between his index and middle finger. I felt my knees shake as I realized what he was saying. He was going to keep me in his sights. He was going to make me his plaything. He wanted to dehumanize me and make me feel small. "It is unfortunate that you have such a mark adorning your face. If you were not scarred, you may truly be the prettiest pebbleswan in the palace." He dropped my hair. "That doesn't mean we can't clean you up enough to make you more presentable though."
I snapped, "I'd rather be tortured in a cell than your captured pet!"
He grinned devilishly. "I'll need to tame you too, I see." He brushed my hair behind my ear and I jerked away in disgust. "You look like you've been through quite a journey. I am impressed you are able to stand in such a state." He stepped behind me, and I felt my heart accelerate. To my bewilderment, he suddenly undid the rope binding my hands together. As soon as my hands were free, I dropped them to my sides in defeat. "There… now I'll be able to see you in full. I must say… despite the state you're in you do have the body of a woman… I pictured a scrawny little girl when I heard of you, but I was very wrong." His body heat could be felt behind me as he whispered, "You are definitely not a child."
I felt my heart skip a beat as he spoke of me in such a vulgar way. I wanted to get as far from him as possible. I wanted to turn and shove him away. My father told me to never let my back be turned on the enemy. I knew if I moved without permission though I would be punished far worse than just a slap to the face.
"You know… You're in time for a meeting I am having tonight with my council. I would love to show off my newly acquired prize. Of course, you will need to change… my men will love to have such a pretty guest tonight I'm sure."
I shut my eyes tight. "I'm not your prize."
He ran his hand along the top of my head as if patting me like he would an ostrich horse.
"I'll have you understand what you are by the end of this night. Maybe Zuko will arrive and see what you are as well."
"He won't like what you're doing to me. You're only going to bring upon his wrath."
Ozai chuckled. "Not if I offer him what he wants. If my son does come tonight, which I strongly believe he will, then I will propose a deal with him. His reinstatement as heir to the throne, or a life of peasantry with a lowly waterbender. If my son is wise enough, he will accept my offer, because in the end he will have his title back and he can also have you… as his bedchamber servant."
I was disgusted and outraged by what he predicted. I went to turn to face him, but he wouldn't let me. Ozai grabbed my dislocated shoulder to stop my attempt, and his touch sent a blinding pain through me. I couldn't hold in the whimper, and I stumbled a bit as blood rushed to my head from the pain. He seemed satisfied when he felt my body almost collapse under him. "I see my daughter went against my orders and gave you her customary welcome. As much as your pain delights me, I'll need you in good health for when my son does arrive. Not to mention, I can't have my pretty pet broken when I show you off to my council tonight. I will need this mended, immediately."
He released my shoulder and then stepped back in front of me. His hand grabbed my chin again, harder this time, and he forced me to look into his heartless gaze. He was satisfied when he saw the fear and pain clearly written across my features.
"If you were Fire Nation, I may have found you to be suitable enough for my son even with lowly birth. Your beauty is quite surprising, even for a waterbender." His thumb suddenly traced the outline of my scar. "But your face could never be one of a Fire Lady." He leaned forward. "However, I don't mind having such a pretty possession in my home. You will make a fine addition to the palace… Of course, waterbending will be forbidden. If you so much as move a drop of water, I will have to punish you for your disobedience."
His words made my gut twist. Even though I hadn't eaten in over a day, I felt like what remained in my stomach wanted to come out. I grabbed at his hand to try and pull it from my chin while I shut my eyes.
"Ah… Bold I see." He grabbed my hand from his own with his other one, and the grip he had on my wrist made me cringe. "I'll have to train you to be a good little bird. I see I have my work cut out for me."
I opened my eyes again and met his piercing gaze with disgust. My tongue let loose. "I'm not your pet! I will not be owned by you! You're a sick and insane bastard! " I tried to pull from his hand on my chin by jerking my head away, but he only tightened his grip making the pain in my chin intensify.
"You seem to think you have a choice. But like any other one of my caged animals, you will see in time that you do not. I am in control. As long as you are in these palace walls, you will obey me." He released me finally, and stepped back. "You should be thanking me for not killing you."
"Why don't you? Are you really that eager for a new pet." I was trying to stay strong and keep my spirit, but on the inside I was utterly exhausted and afraid. It had been a whole day since I'd been ripped from my family. So much had happened in the last twenty-four hours. I was exhausted and starving. Not to mention my shoulder was in agony. All I wanted to do was sleep, but the night was still not over and Ozai still had plans for me.
He sighed. "I do admit… I considered killing you when I received word you were finally captured. But then I realized, if I did so I would have no leverage against my son when he came for you. You are more than just my new prize. You are also my ticket to my son. When he arrives to rescue his waterbending sweetheart I will be able to remind him of where his true loyalties lie. But first things first, let's get you cleaned up and see how pretty you really are under this rats nest." He grabbed a strand of my hair again, and I tried to jerk away once more. His grip tightened to stop my escape and he gave my strand a tug making me gasp as a sharp pain shot through my scalp. The Fire Lord pulled me towards him as he tugged so his mouth was beside my ear. I felt his breath tickle my skin as he spoke. "Welcome to your new home, my pretty swan."
As soon as he released my hair, I was grabbed from behind by a guard who entered without my notice. As I was dragged out of the room, I heard the Fire Lord state softly, "Can't wait to see you in your full beauty, Crystal..."
Zuko POV
My anxiety spiked as the sun started to lower. She was most likely in the palace by now. She had most likely met my father. What had he done to her? Did she cross paths with Azula too? I could only picture the pain they were putting her through. The thought made my stomach twist and head spin. Land was still a good mile out, and it would take me another hour once I got on the island to sneak to the palace.
"We'll be making landfall soon. I'm afraid with the sun setting like it is you may need to remain with me until morning." Mingi stated as he steered the boat to a secluded area within the inner harbor of the Fire Nation. Mingi was once a valuable commander back in his prime, so the Fire Nation crew who confronted him upon entering the harbor waters were happy to let him pass. They didn't even bother to inspect the barrel I was hidden within.
Shaking my head, I picked up my Blue Spirit mask with determination. "I can't leave her in there for that long. There's no telling what my father will do to her… Or what he has already done to her. I need to get in there before she's hurt more than she already has been..."
Mingi grabbed my arm to stop me from preparing for my departure. "Prince Zuko. I know you are concerned. You have every right to be. But it is too soon. Your father has important members of his council tonight so security is going to be heavy. A wise man once said, Patience is a bitter plant, but its fruit is sweet."
I scowled. Ripping my hand from the man, I snapped, "I'm not leaving her in that awful place any longer than she needs to be there."
He frowned. "I knew you'd react this way. But as I have already said, if you go in tonight without a plan then you will be going in blind. I need you to just give it the night. Crystal is bait, Prince Zuko… Your father is using her to get you home. She will be okay. He needs her alive."
His words only irritated me more. TIghtening my fists, I turned my tone sharp and firm. "No! Your mission is to help my Uncle. My mission is to save the love of my life from my father! I will not wait around while someone I deeply care about is being tortured by the man that burned his own son. I won't change my mind on this! I will get her out of that place before dawn tomorrow!" I turned and stomped over to my stuff again, grabbing my bag.
"Very well… I can't stop you," he spoke softly. "But please do be careful Prince Zuko. The future of the Fire Nation and this world depends on your survival. Don't fall into your father's trap."
I gripped my bag tight as his words lingered. Hanging my head, I shut my eyes tight. "I won't. I won't lose to him again… I have something even more precious to fight for this time than my honor…"
Crystal pov
Staring at the mirror image before me, I could not believe the transformation that had just occurred.
"There dear… All clean." The Fire Nation lady named Sun brushed the last strand of hair so my dark brown locks went in waves down my back. "Now we just need to mend your shoulder and you'll be ready." Kneeling on the hardwood floor as she spoke, I felt more exhausted than when I left the Fire Lord.
Once I had arrived at the bathing area of the palace an hour before, I was immediately greeted by the headmistress I learned was named Sun. She was around my Gran-Gran's age, with pale white hair in a bun and a thin frame. Her skin was pale like many in the Fire Nation, and she held a stern expression, but her brown eyes were gentle and kind. She wore a dark red dress, and leather black flat shoes. She immediately stepped over to me when the guard and I had entered the large spa room where a giant ornate fountain was running in the center. Immediately dismissing the guard who had brought me, Sun waited until we were alone before she spoke. The other servant girls around her were busy preparing everything they would need to make me a pretty little pet for Ozai.
Keeping a stern expression, Sun began to observe me. "You must be the young waterbender whom I hear has stolen the heart of our prince… I was informed to wash away the filth that covers you and make you into a radiant princess." She reached forward, and I cringed thinking she was going to hurt me. My face was still swollen from Ozai's most recent strike. Not to mention my shoulder was in agony from every movement I made.
So far entering the palace I had been treated with nothing but disdain and disgust by everyone I crossed paths with.
Sun frowned from my reaction to her outreach, and I was surprised to see her eyes fill with sorrow. Her wrinkled hand suddenly pushed a sweaty strand of hair away from my face. "My child… You've been through some dark places these last few hours. An unfamiliar land… surrounded by the people you were told to be your enemy… There's no question as to why you are shaking so terribly." She suddenly pulled a handkerchief from her dress sleeve and brushed it gently against my sweat crusted forehead. "But do not fear me, my dear. Any friend of Iroh and Zuko is a friend of mine and will be treated as such."
Her words surprised me. Friend?
She noticed my shock. "Look at you…" She suddenly pulled me into an embrace. I was frozen in her hold confused by her actions. "You look like you've seen death. Don't worry, Crystal… I am honest when I say you're safe here with me. Iroh asked me to take care of you if you ever came across my path. I swore to him I would..."
Her words surprised me further. "I… Iroh? He told you to… To take care of me… Do you know… I mean… Is he alive?"
Sun was not surprised by my concern. She brushed a gentle hand through my hair again. "Yes. He is well. He has been detained and kept in the Fire Nation capital prison for the last few weeks." She frowned. "You do not need to worry for him right now though, dear child. You need not worry about anyone but yourself at this moment. You will face many hardships being within these walls, and therefore it is important you focus on your survival."
My eyes burned and my body shook. I was so relieved to hear the man I feared to be dead was alive and well. Her concern for my own safety did not distract my mind from the relief that Iroh was alright. Zuko would be elated if he knew his Uncle was still alive.
She hugged me closer when she felt my body shake as I felt relief, although she was careful not to hug me too close around my shoulder. "At least one good thing came out of my capture," I whispered. "It's good to know he's okay." I dropped my head against the elder woman's shoulder as she moved her hand from my hair to my back. "At least now I know…" I felt so tired suddenly.
"You are just as caring as the rumors tell," she whispered to herself. Then she rubbed a circle on my back. "Iroh will be glad to hear you are not hurt too terribly. But be honest with me… what did the Fire Lord say to you? You look as pale as a spirit."
I wasn't sure if I should say. I didn't know the rules about speaking of the Fire Lord in the presence of others. She noticed my uncertainty. Pulling away slightly, she gently caressed my cheek in a maternal gesture.
"You can talk to me, dear. You are safe at the moment. While I cannot protect you once you are out of my hands, when you're with me the guards cannot touch you. They have been ordered not to disturb."
I swallowed hard, finding my voice. "He said he wants to keep me in his sights… he wants to make me his caged prize. Show me off for the amusement of himself and others. He's trying to ridicule me and make me feel small so I won't think twice about trying to still be with his son… but he'll learn the hard way…" I felt my heart lighten as my strength returned. "Zuko and I honestly love one another, and I know he'd never turn his back on me… that's why I'm ready to endure whatever the Fire Lord throws my way… because I know at the end of it all, nothing will change. Zuko and I will still be together."
She placed her hand on the top of my head. "I'm relieved that your spirit and hope has remained. I've heard of the joy you bring to my young master, Prince Zuko… Anyone who can make that young man smile is a light we need in this place." Her gentle elderly hand brushed through my hair again. "And I pray to the spirits that your light will always remain."
I felt more tears form in my eyes. "I won't let the Fire Lord destroy me… I've made it too far to quit…"
"You truly have…" After a moment, Sun sighed. "Unfortunately time seems to be passing. You'll be due back to the Fire Lord soon. Let's clean you up and mend that shoulder."
The next hour consisted of Sun helping me undress and get into a large pool that was warmed by firebenders previously and had scented oil poured inside by the servant girls. As I let my body soak in the warm water to alleviate my pain, Sun left me to go get some clothes and other things to prepare me for tonight. There was fruit left beside me which I ate with relief, and I slowly eased the intense hunger within my stomach.
As I was left alone, I considered running, but I knew I would probably just get lost or run into a guard. I knew nothing about this palace or it's inhabitants. Last thing I needed was being put in a situation where I'd have to fight a guard… or worse… there was a chance I would run into Azula.
I would surely fail any match against her or the palace guards with my current injury, and once I was apprehended I was sure to be punished. Ozai would then lash out at my people for my defiance.
Plus, running wasn't really an option since Sun took my clothes when she left, so there wasn't much choice but to wait until she came back.
Sinking into the water so the warm liquid brushed my chin, I felt relaxed for the first time in twenty four hours. I knew it would be short lived, but the sensation made me feel a small bit of strength return. I was in a dark place, but I was not truly alone. Iroh had friends looking out for me… and I had a strong feeling Zuko was already coming to my rescue.
I frowned then. Zuko… he was probably worried sick. I prayed he hadn't been too injured after being attacked with Toph. They'd both been unconscious.
I began to wonder what they were doing. As much as I wanted Zuko to come save me, part of me did hope he had stayed with the others so they could continue the mission. The best way they could save me now was by continuing with the plan and invading on the eclipse. I just had to stay strong until then.
Sitting back up, I brought some water up to my shoulder to try to heal the injury that had been inflicted on me from Azula's wrath. I did cross the line a bit earlier when I bit her, but her speaking such horrible words about my people had made me angry. It wasn't a surprise Azula lashed out in such a painful way.
Unfortunately, my healing only numbed the pain and I knew there was no way to fully heal it until after it was set back in place. The blue glow faded and I let the water drop back into the pool with defeat.
Sinking my body deeper into the warm water again, I shut my eyes tight as I pictured the worst things that could happen tonight. I had no clue what the Fire Lord had planned, but the possibilities terrified me.
Eventually Sun returned and helped me back out of the pool. Once she did, I pulled the water off with my good hand to dry. Sun was surprised by the sudden use of my abilities, and quickly told me to suppress the urge when I was not with her. She worried if someone saw me they'd think it was an act of defiance and hurt me. I let her know to ease her concern that I would not do so.
Finally, after a long hour of washing up and having every tangle brushed out of my hair, I was done.
Staring at myself in the mirror, I couldn't really believe I was the same person that had come through the palace doors not even two hours ago. My long brown hair hung loose in elegant waves, and the red dress I wore was made of fine satin material. The dress brushed only just past my knees, and it was sleeveless revealing every inch of my scar. There was only gold trim on the top, and the rest of the dress went from a lighter shade of red to darker at the bottom. My shoes were taken and I was given some thin sandals with red fabric for the strap. As I was forced to look at myself in the mirror that was carried over to me, I was horrified at how beautiful I'd become.
I knew this wasn't a good thing. If I was pretty enough to win Ozai's interest and keep alive, then he clearly would not have good intentions for me.
I shivered at the thought. I knew a little of what happened to women captured from war. I'd heard my share of the tales from whispers amongst women in my tribe. There was no telling what Ozai intended for me in the future. I knew if I ran though I would endanger not only my tribe but Zuko as well. If he really did come for me, and I was not here to help him, there was a chance he would fall into his father's clutches. Many would say it was okay for me to be selfish at this moment, but my heart would not let me. I was scared… I was uncertain… But I would not be a coward and run.
"Miss… The palace physician is waiting for you," Sun whispered.
Looking behind me over at her, I realized what was about to happen. My hand went up to my pained shoulder which was still out of socket. I knew that even if it was set back in place, I wouldn't be able to use it for days. The pain of putting it back in place was something that horrified me. I'd seen my father and Bato help warriors in the past with dislocated shoulders, and the screams of agony that followed were not at all settling.
Shakily, I followed Sun out of the room and down the dark red hall that led through a part of the palace I didn't know. Two guards walked on both sides of me to make sure I didn't try anything. As we walked down the hall, servants looked up from their work with curiosity. When they realized who I was, they quickly looked away with uncertainty. They were probably told not to show any sympathy or interest in me. I knew in these palace walls I would be alone.
Making a few turns down long and unfamiliar halls, we finally arrived in a smaller room with dim light from just a few torches. A man stood in the center of the room in waiting, ready to help keep me alive as long as possible. As he stepped forward though into the light, I was astonished to find the man before me was no stranger. The man before me was one who had helped me so many other times in the past. He mended me when I fell off Zuko's ship, helped my wrists when I'd been viciously tied below, and was a great company at Pai Sho.
"Quan…" I was surprised to find the man once known as the physician for Iroh and Zuko's crew standing before me. I had not seen him since our parting back when Zhao took Zuko's crew to go on his quest. The middle aged man who was in much finer clothing than what he wore on the three year quest for the Avatar, was horrified as he took in my appearance. Quan had been a good friend and company on the ship, and he had grown fond of me as the child he never had. Seeing me so worn and injured, he immediately jumped into action.
"She's a bit more beaten up than I was informed. Sit her on the medical table," he ordered to Sun, pointing to the cushioned table in the room where he examined his patients. "I'm going to grab my supplies." As he rushed across the room to a cupboard, Sun nudged me towards the table. I hesitated, watching as Quan searched for everything he would need to mend me.
"It's alright dear…" Sun encouraged, probably thinking I had stopped for another reason. "You'll be better in a moment."
With relief at the sight of my old friend, I stepped over to the raised wooden table with some fine red cushion sewn atop. Sitting on the surface with Sun's assistance while using my one good arm to hoist me up, I watched as the familiar face anxiously rummaged for his stuff.
Quan came back over to me only a moment later, and he handed over a vial with what I could only assume was some herb to relax my muscles from the pain about to consume me. As he handed it to me, he met my gaze finally and I could see the concern.
"I heard you were brought here… I didn't want it to be true, but I see it is… and you have definitely been through some awful pain just in the time you've been here." He nudged my hand to move the vial to my mouth and I did so taking the bitter liquid. "That should take effect in a moment."
I was still in shock by the acquaintance before me as I handed him the empty vial. "Quan… Wha-What are you doing here? I didn't know you were the palace physician…"
He grimaced. "After I joined Zhao's fleet once I departed General Iroh's, my ship was one of the few that survived the Avatar's attack. We were immediately sent back to the Fire Nation. Upon my arrival, the current palace physician died and they needed someone to take the position who had treated the Fire Lord's family in the past. My past with General Iroh persuaded the Fire Lord to appoint me as his new physician." He smiled weakly. "I'm glad I took the position now… At least you were able to see one friend in this awful place."
His statement made my eyes burn with tears. I shut them tight stating, "It's good to see a familiar face before I head into my possible doom."
Quan's warm hand held my own. "The Fire Lord won't kill you… That much I have heard. However, I fear you will not have a pleasant experience here. He plans to display you tonight in front of his council. I've heard he wants to get information out of you… learn the strategies of the other nations."
His statement filled me with frustration. The Fire Lord wanted me to spill everything to him about other nations. He was in for a rude awakening. I would not betray my people or my side of the war for my own safety. The Fire Lord would soon find that no amount of torture would make me disloyal to my people and the other nations.
Giving a small smile, I met his gaze with sudden confidence. "Don't worry, Quan… I won't let him break me."
He was surprised by my promise, and then relief fell over him. "Still the same young woman I remember. Only you have indeed grown stronger than when I last saw you." He pressed his hand to my good shoulder. "I know you will survive this. You're too stubborn to let anyone cage you for long. Your spirit is too strong for them to constrain."
Sun spoke again, reminding both of us of her presence. "I wish this reunion could continue, but The Fire Lord is expecting you very soon and we can't keep him waiting."
Quan frowned. "Yes… unfortunately you're right." He examined my shoulder then, and I heard him scowl. "Princess Azula truly has some awful methods for torture. What did you do to earn this punishment?"
I hung my head with a grimace. "I… I kind of bit her on the leg."
Sun sighed, but Quan laughed. His laugh made me smile. "Now that would've been a sight to see!"
"Sir…" A young boy suddenly arrived through the doorway with a leather bag and a pot. He was probably a year younger than Aang. "I've brought the water and herbs you requested."
"Thank you, Rui. Please place them on the shelf and then come here. I need your help."
Rui looked over at me with question, but his gray eyes immediately strayed away when ours met. He must've been uncertain about how to act around me. He was clearly treated very low in this terrifying place: A servant.
"This is going to be very unpleasant, but once I do this, you will feel better," Quan spoke, stepping beside me and putting his hand on my dislocated shoulder. Shutting my eyes, I knew the pain was going to be worse than when it was originally dislocated, but I had to be strong if I was going to have both my arms to work with again in the future.
Rui's voice was close once more. "You wanted me to assist you, Physician Quan?"
"Yes… I need you to sit behind her and hold her up for me in case she passes out."
His words only made my heart accelerate more. Rui did as he was told though and hoisted himself up on the table and crawled behind me. His hands pressed against my back to support me.
"Here!" Sun suddenly rushed over. She shoved a wooden block into my mouth. "Bite down on this. It will distract you from some of the pain."
I took her suggestion and quickly bit down, while Quan grabbed my arm which immediately burst into a searing pain. "Ready?"
I nodded to the man, and shut my eyes tighter.
"Deep breath," Sun spoke. "It will help." I heeded her advice.
The next moment was the longest of my life as Quan shoved my forearm up with one hand and pushed my shoulder with the other. The snap and the knife-like pain caused me to bite hard on the wooden piece and almost drop back from unconsciousness. As my mind went blank for a moment in searing pain, I wished that I would pass out. If I was out cold they couldn't force me to see the Fire Lord.
Unfortunately, I remained conscious as the pain continued. Rui quickly supported me when I slumped back in his grip, my ears ringing and my arm pounding in pain. At this point I'd lost the block from my mouth.
As Rui held me up, he asked, "What happened to her?"
Sun spoke in reply. "Azula."
Rui's hands shook against my back. "Princess Azula has always been hard on people…" his voice spoke from experience. "She abuses the servants assigned to her and beats up prisoners when she can... I keep away from her as much as possible."
I found my voice only a moment after trying to calm my breaths from the pain I'd endured. "She's definitely a sick monster like her father… All they care about is power and control… No ruler should ever lead their people in such an awful way…"
"Miss Sun…" Quan spoke, keeping focused on my treatment. "Please grab me the bandages from the top shelf. I need to wrap it so she can't move it." As the pain subsided I felt my physical strength start to return. Sun suddenly appeared in my line of sight with some bandages. She and Quan managed to wrap my arm enough that I was able to wear a sling to keep the healing joints from moving.
Once I was able to hold myself up, Rui finally moved from behind me and slid off the cushion back to his feet. I smiled with gratitude at him and went to do the same.
Quan stopped me. "Not yet. You need to sit a moment longer. You're shaking too much from the trauma you have just experienced." He held my good shoulder firm and when he did I realized he was right. The pain had my body shaking involuntarily. "Your injury has taken a toll on you. Rest here for a moment before you are forced to face Fire Lord Ozai. I just pray to the spirits this will be the only thing I mend tonight… and thankfully it was only Azula's mark. The Fire Lord is much more ruthless."
"Scaring the child…" Sun sighed heavily. "But yes… Azula has always been like her father," Sun offered me a drink suddenly to which I willingly accepted with my free hand. "They are both thirsty for power. In their eyes, you are not worthy to have won Prince Zuko's heart."
"I suppose I'll just need to prove them wrong then… not that it will matter… we'll defeat them soon…" I felt exhausted again. "I'm not sure what they have in store for me. Azula has always had me as a target since the day we met… I think she's sour that her brother and Uncle turned against her to help me escape. Or maybe she is just insane. And the Fire Lord is upset Zuko stopped trying to please him because of me. I've ruined their plans and they hate me for it."
Sun hugged me suddenly, careful to not embrace too hard and hurt my shoulder. "I'm sorry child... I wish I could help you escape… it's too much of a risk though."
I shook my head. "No… I'd never ask any of you to betray your nation if it meant getting hurt… I'll be fine." Sun pulled away, and I smiled weakly at her. "I'm scared, but I'm not going down without a fight."
Quan seemed satisfied to hear this. "That's the young waterbender I remember. Your heart is too good for them to break, Miss Crystal."
A knock sounded on the door to the room. Rui stepped over and opened it. The same guard from before stepped inside without any remorse or emotion. He was ready to escort me to the Fire Lord.
Managing to slide off the table, I let out a deep breath. There was no avoiding it. With defeat, I headed over to the man knowing there was not much choice. As I went, I looked back at Quan with sincerity. "Thank you… it was good seeing you again. Maybe one day we can have a rematch on pai sho."
His eyes moistened while he nodded his head giving a sad smile. "I'm certain when we do, it will be under better circumstances."
The guard grabbed my good arm then, and I was pulled away from both Quan and Sun. As I was forced from my allies to my enemy, I tried to stay strong. I had to for everyone.
Walking back down the dark halls lit by only the moon outside and the torch lights, I tried to breathe steadily but it was difficult with the guard dragging me along. My feet stumbled to keep up. The sling I wore dug into my neck as my shoulder started to ache again.
"Ca...can we slow down… please…"
The guard surprisingly did. His quick pace slowed and I was finally able to catch my breath. My body was on the brink of passing out, but I tried to keep myself together. I could not show the Fire Lord I was weak.
Eventually we arrived at the entrance that was covered by large red curtains. Two guards stood where the curtains fell, and when we approached they grabbed their individual drape and pulled it aside.
Being forced through, I found myself in a war room. There was a giant table in the center of the room with a map of the four nations, while men sat around the table in observation. As I was pulled inside, Ozai who sat on a golden throne at the end of the table looked over at the sound of our steps.
When he took in my fresh and clean appearance, he seemed satisfied by my change which made me cringe. "Ah… yes… our guest has arrived."
The five other men dressed in fine Fire Nation attire in the room looked over at me with curiosity.
"Welcome… we've been awaiting your arrival," Ozai stated, standing from his chair and stepping towards me. The guard shoved me forward, and I stumbled but managed to catch myself. Ozai waved the guard away, and the man left through the way we had come. "I barely recognized you when you entered." The Fire Lord grabbed a lock of my combed hair and I jerked back defiantly. He was amused and did not strike me for my action. "Such a wild thing at first. Now you truly do look like the daughter of a Chief."
He turned back to the five men in the room then.
"Feast your eyes my friends! The daughter of Chief Hakoda of the Southern Water Tribe is in our presence at last."
I grit my teeth to keep from lashing at him in frustration. He stepped behind me and grabbed both of my shoulders with a firm grip. My bad shoulder immediately pulsed from the pain. He shoved me forward despite my struggle, and I was brought before the five men who watched with curious gazes. "Can you see why my son would've swooned for this iceland beauty?"
One of the men around Ozai's age, seated second to last at the table, lowered his wine and stated with a smirk, "She's definitely prettier than I pictured from the stories they tell. You have a fine prize there, Fire Lord Ozai." The other two men who were middle aged snickered, while the youngest and oldest members of the group frowned in disapproval. Ozai noticed the younger man's lack of approval.
"General Fey. You seem conflicted," Ozai stated, releasing my shoulders but not moving from behind me. "Is there something you would like to say?"
The man who was early thirties, with his black hair in a topknot and a lean figure beneath his armor, stated calmly, "I mean no disrespect, Fire Lord Ozai, but I just feel this discussion should be about the war and not this child. I came here to speak of strategy. Not to be entertained by some little girl."
Ozai was amused. "Little girl?" His body moved around me, and then he stepped up to General Fey who kept his eyes down. "This is no little girl gentlemen. How can she be when she comes amongst us with such beauty and strength? In addition, she is one of the last waterbenders of the Southern Water Tribe. She is a rare prize to behold." Ozai turned to face me again, and his finger poked beneath my chin forcing my head up while I glared at him. "We have successfully captured the Southern Water Tribe's princess."
I grit my teeth. "I'm not a princess."
"Princess…" The man around my father's age at the center of the table who looked the scariest seemed to nod with understanding. "I see. You wish to use her as leverage to make the Water Tribe surrender."
Fire Lord Ozai removed his finger from my chin. They all had ignored my denial at being someone of importance. "At first I did not. I thought to myself that no one would care about some washed out tribal chief's daughter."
"No one," I snapped in confirmation.
He chuckled from my tenacity. He turned to his men though continuing to ignore me.
"The Southern Water Tribe has always been on our radar, but we've always passed it by due to its insignificance. The last time our soldiers touched their shore to invade was when my father sent a fleet to capture their last waterbender. But this has changed since the Avatar was found in their midst. We've all heard the story of how Chief Hakoda's children became the last airbender's comrades. The fact that such an insignificant tribe harbored the Fire Nation's greatest fugitive, and two children from this tribe assisted the Avatar during his time on earth, has brought the South Pole out of the shadows. Not only that, but the fact the Southern Water Tribe was able to hide not one, but two waterbenders from my men says a lot as well. The Southern Water Tribe is more dangerous than we assumed."
If my eyes could burn through someone Ozai would be ash. His mentioning of my people and my family was only intensifying my rage.
"My spies also learned something fascinating a few weeks ago that I think you men will find interesting." He pointed at me. "This waterbender has not only ties to the Southern, but Northern Water Tribe. Her grandmother was once a member of the Northern Water Tribe, and she has recently married Master Pakku, the Northern Water Tribe's greatest waterbender."
His statement stunned me. My mouth fell a bit in speechlessness.
WHAT?! GRAN GRAN MARRIED PAKKU? WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN?
"I've also heard that the Northern and Southern Water Tribe are planning to combine their forces and their people to become a united and strong single nation. Already they have sent warriors from the North to fortify the Southern Tribe. My men were most recently attacked by waterbenders when they attempted to stop in on the small tribe."
The first man of Ozai's council who commented on my appearance when I came in the room spoke again. "This presents a problem then. We were always able to keep the neighboring Water Tribe under bay so they would not invade and attack. Now our neighboring enemies are expanding their forces. We must prepare for them to try to attack any day now."
Ozai nodded. "Unfortunately this brings to why you have all been called here today. There is word from Princess Azula that an invasion will be occurring in three days time. You all have been made aware of the eclipse, but our spies have notified us that there is a small armada forming in which the Fire Nation Capital will be infiltrated at our weakest point. I am certain this small invasion is being run by this young waterbenders family. However, when they enter the palace and see their dear sister within our reach they will be forced to surrender."
I was horrified. While Ozai still did not know Aang was alive he knew enough details to have completely learned of our plans. I realized then I had to escape… I couldn't wait for Zuko anymore. I had to warn everyone that our plans were foiled. I couldn't let anyone get captured or killed!
"From the waterbenders reaction, I can see you are right," the second man down the line spoke, this one shorter than the rest with a scar on his forehead and black hair that was cut short. "Do we know how many to expect?"
Ozai shook his head. "Unfortunately, we do not. However, that is the reason I have brought this gem into our midst." He turned back to me. "She's going to give us the details."
I narrowed my eyes. He was truly insane. "I'm not telling you anything."
He sighed. "I had a feeling you would be difficult. Unfortunately, I will not take your silence as an answer."
Walking forward, he grabbed my shoulder again and squeezed sending a sharp pain through me. I gasped and grabbed his hand to try and pull it away.
"So tell me… how many are in the invasion force?"
I grit my teeth as tears pulled to my eyes. I would not speak, no matter how much pain this man inflicted on me. He squeezed harder, and I couldn't stop the whimper and shake of my body as blinding pain shot from my shoulder and down my whole arm.
"How do they plan on breaking through the gates of Azulon?"
I shook my head. I would not yield. He squeezed harder. I screamed this time as the pain took over every nerve in my body.
He grinned devilishly. "There it is… there's that weakness I was looking for." He pulled me closer so his face was inches from my own. I had blurred vision as I tried to refocus and meet his gaze. I also breathed heavily trying to subside the pain as much as I could. "Tell me what I want to know, and I will reward you. Instead of throwing you in a cold dark cell tonight, I will give you a fine room with a warm bed. You'll still be a prisoner, but you will at least be treated well until my son arrives."
In response, I did the only thing I could think of at that moment. Spitting at Ozai's face, he cringed in disgust and released me. Once I was free of his grip, I backed away to avoid his retaliation. "I'd rather rot in a cell. I will not betray my people! No matter what you do to me or how much pain you inflict on me, I will remain loyal to my own."
Ozai growled as he wiped the saliva off his cheek, and then lunged forward to grab me again. With swift movements, I dodged his attempt and stepped back more to avoid his reach.
A few of his council coughed out laughter, and this only made Ozai more infuriated. "Guards! Detain her!"
By his orders, the two guards who had been standing silently in the corners of the room behind us, rushed forward and grabbed both of my arms. I cried out as the one guard who grabbed my splinted arm yanked too hard.
They forced me back towards Ozai who looked ready to kill me. He stepped forward with fury. "I will teach you to respect me! You are my prisoner! You will not make a fool of me in front of my men!" He grabbed my good shoulder hard, and I saw he was seething. Then slowly, his rage simmered and a malicious spark shot through his gaze. "It looks like I will have to teach my new pet some respect."
I tried to struggle in the guards' holds while Ozai moved his hand to my chest where my crystal necklace rested. "Is this how my son marks you as his?" He stared at the crystal gem while I struggled harder. "He was always too soft. Just like his mother… he fell for his prisoner because he was too weak to keep her under control." Ozai ripped the necklace off of my neck painfully, and then gripped it tight in his fist. He started to heat the crystal gem with his hand and I saw him grin devilishly. "Her wrist." His words were an order to his guards. The man to my right did as he was told and grabbed my good arm yanking it palm up towards the Fire Lord.
I gasped knowing what he was about to do. He could see I'd figured it out. "Apologize to me for your insolence, and I will yield."
Knowing the pain would be severe, every part of me wanted to apologize to Ozai and ask for forgiveness. But I could not show I was weak. I would not let him defeat me so soon. "I don't apologize to pricks like you!"
He growled. "So be it!" He shoved the heated crystal to the inside of my wrist and a searing pain shot through me. I couldn't contain the screams and I let my cries ring through the room from the blinding pain. I tried to pull away but his guards held me firm as Ozai branded me with what was once a symbol of my unity to Zuko. Ozai was a sick and sadistic beast.
"Fire Lord!"
The searing heat on my wrist continued even after Ozai pulled the glowing crystal from my wrist. Once the branding was done, the arm that was once pain free pulsed in searing pain. The fire continued to lick my skin even though it's source was gone.
Ozai turned to the council man that spoke with irritation, while his guards continued to hold me up. The one who spoke was the youngest at the table. He had stood from his seat on the cushion and his hands were in fists. He looked to be mid thirties and was tall and lean. His gold eyes held a softness to them that showed he was kinder than the other Fire Nation men in the room.
"General Fey… Do you have something you would like to say? Please, share your thoughts."
General Fey stared over at me, and then at the Fire Lord with confliction. "My Lord… I have met many waterbenders in my life. All of them are loyal to their people. This one will not speak no matter how much pain you inflict. I suggest we continue this strategic discussion without her. She is clearly just a distraction."
The Fire Lord was not pleased by General Fey's words. "Who I desire to be in my presence is my own decision. You will not make that choice." He looked back at me. "Tell me what I want to know, and I will not punish you further."
I breathed heavily. My whole body hurt. As much as I feared the pain that would continue to be inflicted on me by my defiance, I would not yield. No matter what Ozai said or did, I would not tell them anything about the invasion.
"I'd rather face punishment," I spoke softly. "I will not betray the other nations. Many sacrificed their lives to defeat you, and if I must be the next then so be it."
Ozai was surprisingly intrigued by my courage. "I see… you're truly stronger than I assumed you'd be. I thought perhaps I could frighten the information out of you." He stepped towards me and grabbed my chin hard forcing me to stare into his gaze. "But I see now you are not afraid of me." He smirked. "That needs to change from this point on. Fear is my means of control, and if you are not afraid then I am not doing my duty." He pulled me closer so his breath could be felt in my face. I stopped breathing, worried about what his next step would be.
"How's about this… you tell me what I want to know and I won't take away the only thing you have left to give." His eyes looked me over with darkness and lust. "Just because you're young doesn't mean you're not a woman."
His words were evil. I felt sick at the thought of him touching me in any indecent way. Despite the pain, my anger rose again. "You're disgusting," I hissed. "You truly have no soul in that evil heart!"
He growled at my insult. His hand swung back and this time he struck me hard enough to cause me to lose my balance. The guards released me which caused me to fall onto the wooden floorboards beneath me. As I hit the floor on my side, I was relieved that I'd fallen opposite of my shoulder.
As the sting flared in my cheek, and my ears rang loudly, the Fire Lord spoke again. "I've let you speak your mind, but it ends now. Here in the Fire Nation you will be respectful before your superiors. How do you think Zuko got his scar? His lesson should be an example for everyone."
I breathed heavily in exhaustion. However, I would not show I was afraid. Using my good arm, despite the searing pain on the flesh of my wrist, I hoisted my body so I was sitting on my knees. My face burned and pulsed, but I was not done.
I grit my teeth and managed to meet his gaze once more. "What lesson? All you did was burn and banish your son. Zuko didn't deserve what you did to him…" I blinked the tears away. "You don't deserve to have a son after what you left him with! Those three years under Iroh's guardianship were the only good things that came out of your son's exile. Getting away from a bastard like you is what showed Zuko he could be in charge of his own destiny. You're going to regret everything you did to him when you're in a cell and he's on the throne!"
There was a long pause as my last word echoed through the war chamber. Then slowly the fire that began to spark within Ozai from my defiance exploded. I knew his fury was because I was standing up to him in front of his men. I was embarrassing him; making him appear weak. If he couldn't control a single waterbender how could he control a whole nation.
I was bewildered with myself that I was finding so much strength to face the leader of the enemy. My family would probably be horrified I was endangering myself, but I'd finally reached the point of my journey where I didn't care what happened to me anymore.
My luck had been horrible from the start. Thinking back to all that had occurred, the only lucky thing was that I was still alive. While being Zuko's prisoner wasn't terrible, I was still ripped away from my home and family. I spent months separated from Sokka and Katara not knowing if they were alive or dead; was thrown off a ship into the ocean from a storm and almost drowned; an explosion shot Zuko and I out of that same ship and I almost lost him; I was made Zhao's prisoner and thrown around like a sack; tortured by Azula for trying to escape her in the Earth Kingdom. I couldn't save Appa from the Sandbenders and was captured by the Dai Li in Ba Sing Se; then tortured once again by Azula some time later. And now this… captured again and brought to the very man that caused the majority of my troubles to begin with.
I was always tired of being the damsel in distress and so weak, so if standing up to Ozai was my last chance of a true show of strength in these last few months I would take every minute with great satisfaction.
The Fire Lord reached for my hair and took a wad in his fist. He then yanked me up hard and I was forced to follow to keep my hair in my head. "How dare you speak to me that way, you insolent woman!"
I stood my ground, trying not to show him the pain he was causing my head from his violent force. "You wanted the Daughter of a Chief, well you are getting her! I'm not afraid of you Ozai! I've been through too much in these last few months to fear you anymore!"
He was silent for a moment as he listened to my words echo in his mind. Then he released my hair after a good minute and I dropped back to the ground feeling utterly exhausted. I would not pass out though. I refused to.
Ozai turned away from me back towards his council. "It would seem," Ozai began, "that we have a brave warrior in our midst, gentlemen. One that does not show fear in the face of her enemy."
One of the other council members with a balding head and gray beard, said, "My Lord… this young woman is clearly delirious from all that has occurred to her. Perhaps if she were to be taken to a cell to rest she will be more sensible in the morning."
We were all surprised by the older man's words and defense.
The Fire Lord stepped in front of him. "General Tro… what example would it be to reward her after her dishonorable actions. Clearly she must be punished further until she understands her situation."
General Fey spoke up again. "I agree with General Tro, sir." He bowed his head. "This young woman has clearly lost her will in these last few hours. If you try to get information out of her tonight you will be doing so to a broken spirit. She will not yield because she does not care what happens to her. After some rest she may come to her senses."
The other men surprisingly nodded in agreement.
Ozai was irritated that his counsel was not siding with him on this matter. However, after seeing that none of them were going to agree with him about my punishment, he relaxed his tense shoulders in defeat.
He looked back at me for a few moments in silent thought. Then an idea sprang to his head. He stroked his beard with satisfaction. "Very well… she will not be punished further tonight… Frankly, I am exhausted from today's events and wish to just share a drink with you fine gentlemen now." He walked over to his chair at the head of the table and turned to sit upon his throne. A young servant girl silently entered the room keeping her eyes from my direction as she brought a tray with a wine glass to the Fire Lord. Ozai took the red wine and sipped it while the servant girl stepped away back into the shadows so she could hear but not be seen.
"We will discuss strategy now." His eyes narrowed over at me. "You will remain on your knees in silence until I tell you otherwise. If you do not, I will show you how evil I can truly be." He then turned his attention to General Fey. "Your report?"
As the meeting commenced, I decided to do as I was told and remain silent. While I sat painfully on my knees, my face, wrist, scalp, and shoulder throbbing, I tried to listen to the information of my enemy. They kept their reports brief though. I heard things I already knew from being amongst the Fire Nation these last few weeks. However, there was one thing that piqued my interest.
They planned to hide the Fire Lord underground during the invasion. This horrified me. If the Fire Lord was going to be taken underground, the invasion force would not have planned for this. I had to get a message to them somehow. Warn them.
"Now with the Avatar dead," the oldest man at the table began, "we should have no trouble conquering the rest of the nations. The only reason the Northern Water Tribe defeated Admiral Zhao was because the Avatar protected their people in his spiritual form. Without him, we can strike them on all sides again and be victorious."
My attention had returned to the meeting. I grit my teeth and felt my eyes burn. If the Northern Water Tribe was attacked again and failed then our people would surely lose to the Fire Nation at last.
Once the talk of war was completed, the men started drinking heavier and getting louder. General Fey, who originally stood up for me, started to lose his manner as he downed another glass of wine.
Ozai eventually reminded the shouting men of my presence again. They looked back at me with new found curiosity.
"So this young beauty..." the one with the scar on his brow began. "She must have some way of entertaining us rather than sitting like a lost sea puppy."
"Right you are Admiral Gura." Ozai placed his third glass of wine on the tray held towards him by the same servant girl. He then stood and walked towards me. I stood quickly and backed away from him not sure what he intended. "I've heard this young woman has quite the voice when she seronates..." He smirked. "If she sings for us, then I will finally allow her to be taken to her cell for the night."
His words shocked me.
The Fire Lord grinned. "I've heard you have a voice that stuns any who hear. Sing for me and my council, and I will have my guards take you to your holding cell where you can get some much needed rest."
I narrowed my eyes. "If I don't?"
He stepped forward breaking this distance between us. His hand cupped my scarred cheek roughly and his hard thumb traced the top of my discolored flesh. I tried to back away, but he grabbed my shoulder again to stop me and he pulled me close to him so his mouth could lower to my ear. "Then you'll wish you had when I'm done with you tonight." His lips brushed my ear making me cringe. "You're as beautiful as the last Water Tribe woman brought to me. She was a little older than you. If she didn't slit her own throat I would've kept her much longer."
His words made my heart stop. I shuddered and felt hot tears in my eyes.
"What will it be?"
I grit my teeth as a salty liquid slid down my cheeks. However, I knew my family would want me to be smart and not foolish. I had to keep alive for them. And for Zuko. I spoke with spite, "Any song in particular, Fire Lord Ozai?"
He chuckled. "I knew you'd eventually yield to me." He smiled as he pulled away from me. "Something light… nothing about war… let's try to keep the mood pleasant."
I shut my eyes in defeat. My tightened fists released. My heart became stone. The Fire Lord had control, and I could do nothing but what he said. As much as I wanted to fight him, I did not want to lose what humanity I had left. If he truly would punish me the way he spoke of, I'd definitely have to give in just to protect my sanity. I couldn't lose. If that meant letting him use me as his caged bird for a little while longer, I'd suffer through.
Taking in a deep breath, I felt more tears fall as I said with a broken voice, "Fine… I will do as you say… but I need something to help my parched throat."
He smirked. Walking over to the table, he grabbed a freshly poured glass of wine. He headed back over to me and held the cup to my face. I was horrified. I'd never drink alcohol before. I didn't know what the effects would do to me. I backed away with uncertainty.
"Looks like the gal has never enjoyed the opportunity to consume such a delicacy. This should truly be entertaining." Scar brow man was starting to become my second least favorite person in the room. Everyone but General Fey laughed.
Ozai grabbed the back of my head by my hair again and tilted my face back. His drunk gold eyes burned into my soul with pleasure. "It makes me wonder… How would my son feel if he saw this?" He forced the wine to my mouth then. "Drink up… you said you were parched."
I grit my teeth. "Get that away from me!"
He pulled the glass back, but only so he could move my head so I was inches from his face. "It's either drink the wine, or I'll just have to force it down your throat another way."
More tears fell as Ozai continued to threaten me with such awful thoughts. He noticed my confliction, and put the glass to my trembling lips again. With defeat, I started to drink the bitter liquid. He forced me to down the whole glass, while his men laughed in the background. After a few moments the alcohol started to take its effect and I began to feel my head grow light. The pain faded but so did my senses.
"Sing for us…" Ozai's faded voice ordered.
Next thing I knew I was singing. As my song began, and my audience was captivated by the words and tune, I could see the Fire Lord himself was impressed as well. This made me fill with more angst. The Fire Lord was starting to get a look in his eyes that one would get towards a rare gem. I was pleasing him too much. If it weren't for the wine making my brain fuzzy, I'd have taken my chance while singing to try and escape. The guards had become distracted by my song, and everyone else was letting their guard down. But the alcohol had hit me and I knew that even if I tried to bend I probably wouldn't hit my target.
So I continued to sing to stay alive.
I had to stay alive if I was going to get a message to my family and friends about the invasion. I had to find a way to help them. If that meant letting Ozai humiliate me, I'd bear it for as long as I could.
