So… this chapter is a bit longer than I anticipated. I hope you all like it though. One more to go after this one.
Chapter 71: Fire Lord Zuko
(Third Person POV)
An airship was parked on the stone pillar that overlooked Wulong Forest and the ocean. The comet was gone and the sun was starting to set. Crashed airships floated in the water below with Fire Nation soldiers standing on top of the machines to keep from drowning.
Aang stood on the center of the towering stone pillar wearing nothing but his pants, revealing his blue arrow tattoos in full, while smoke rose to the sky from the massive fire he had just put out. Momo was perched on his shoulder, looking at the scene around them curiously. Slumped against a boulder on the stone pillar was a man with messy long black hair, no shirt or shoes, and shut eyes. His face showed defeat.
Aang had just used energybending to take Ozai's firebending away. He was grateful for the Lion-Turtle's knowledge and teaching. He had not wanted to kill, and he would not have to.
The door to the airship opened. Suki and Toph helped Sokka hop down the steel platform onto the pillar with one foot. His left leg was already wrapped with gauze they had found on the ship. They were all pretty certain it was broken. Sokka was just grateful Suki had saved both him and Toph from falling to their deaths right after he broke it. He was however bummed he had lost his boomerang and sword.
Sokka hopped over using both girls as a crutch. He spoke to Aang with praise. "You did it! You should have seen yourself, it was amazing!" He lifted his arms from both of the girls shoulders and stood on one leg. He then made a bunch of punching gestures. "You were all like, 'pshoom, pfoom, pfoom, phish, whoom' and then the Fire Lord was all like, 'eugh, eh, eh, eh, eugh, aye.'" He said the last part pretending to choke himself.
Suki inched towards Ozai cautiously and pointed at him. "So, did you... you know...finish the job?"
Ozai opened his eyes and glared at Suki. "I'm still alive."
Suki stepped back quickly.
Upon hearing Ozai speak though, Sokka's eyes narrowed. His blood started to boil. The excitement of the victory was gone, and spite filled the young Water Tribe warrior. He had hoped the man was dead… Aang spared him... Hearing the man speak suddenly made him remember how much he hated the once powerful Fire Lord. Seeing the man still breathing brought out his fury.
Aang spoke, not noticing Sokka's sudden scowl. "I learned there was another way to defeat him and restore balance. I took his bending away."
Toph was astonished. "Wow, who taught you that?"
Aang shrugged. "A giant Lion-Turtle."
Toph smiled. "You have the craziest adventures when you disappear."
Sokka heard their conversation, but his mind also carried away. He remembered what Crystal had told him and Katara back at the Western Air Temple:
"He threatened to kill my family… to hurt me… rape me... and all I could do was stand there and try not to get myself killed… I was so tired… but he wouldn't let me rest. He dressed me up like a doll and shoved me into a room full of drunks who only saw me as an item of pleasure… they made me sing forever it seemed… forced wine down my throat… and to punish me for trying to disobey, the Fire Lord branded me with the object that was once a symbol of Zuko and I's love…"
Sokka ripped the knife he kept in his belt out and jumped towards the Fire Lord on one foot. Everyone was shocked by his sudden attack. Sokka dropped down on his good knee so he could shove the man to the ground by the shoulder and he placed his blade against Ozai's throat. Tears fell down Sokka's cheeks. Ozai was horrified by the blade on his flesh.
"You monster! I know everything you did to my sister! If I could kill you now I would!"
Aang's eyes widened. He tried to intervene. "Sokka… calm down."
Ozai scowled, although his voice was tired from the battle he'd just lost. "I don't know your sister! Get off me, boy!"
Sokka moved his blade closer, and a line of blood formed. Ozai's eyes widened as he felt the sharp pain on his flesh.
"Oh trust me…" Sokka spoke with venom. "You know her. You sent an Assassin to knock her out and bring her to you! You threatened to rape her! You burned her! Don't you dare tell me you don't remember!"
Ozai was suddenly terrified. He could see the young man wouldn't hesitate to kill him. He finally realized who the Water Tribe warrior spoke of. "The waterbender?" He scoffed and muttered. "That brat should've been killed with the raids... she made my son a fool… And your people should've been slaughtered a long time ago..."
Sokka growled. He withdrew his knife but only so he could stab the blade into the top of Ozai's hand which was pressed to the ground. Ozai screamed in agony as pain shot through him. "Don't worry," Sokka hissed. "It's just a flesh wound. I didn't hit any major arteries. But there will be a scar. So when you look at it in whatever hole we throw you in you can remember that you messed with the wrong family. If you ever touch Crystal again, I will end you!"
He managed to stand back up, with Suki coming over to help. His knife was back in his hand, while Ozai had blood on the deep wound on his flesh.
Sokka's rage simmered and instead he spoke with a smirk. "Well, look at you buster. Now that your firebending is gone, I guess we should call you the 'Loser Lord'."
Ozai held his bleeding hand, but managed to sit up for a moment to stutter, "I… I am the Phoenix King!" He dropped back though from pain and exhaustion.
Toph mocked him. "Oh sorry, didn't mean to offend you 'Phoenix King of Getting His Butt Whupped'."
Suki added as Ozai started to lose consciousness, "Yeah, or how about 'King of the Guys Who... Don't Win'?"
Toph sighed. "Leave the nicknames to us honey."
Suki grimaced. Aang let out a heavy breath, glad Sokka didn't kill the man. Momo nuzzled Aang's cheek with his nose to offer comfort. Ozai was out cold from exhaustion and pain. Sokka was satisfied with his revenge. Toph was relieved her home had not been destroyed.
The battle was over, and Sokka had gotten his swing at Ozai for the pain he inflicted on his sister. He hoped the others had defeated Azula to put her in her place as well.
Crystal POV
The sun had set. Sozin's Comet was gone. All was quiet and calm.
Katara and I helped Zuko to his feet carefully to not aggravate his injury. I could see he was in a lot of pain still and this concerned me. He tried to give me a reassuring smile when he saw the worry across my expression. "Katara healed me well, Crys. I'm good."
I sighed. "I want to say thank you for taking the hit for me, but I'm also not thrilled you put yourself in harm's way."
Zuko rolled his eyes. "It's not the first time I've risked my life to save you. I do hope it's the last though. I don't want you to be in danger anymore." He brushed a strand of hair behind my ear. I was certain it was very disheveled from my recent fight with Azula. I was too tired to really care at the moment though.
"Hopefully the danger has passed for a while," I whispered. "I could really use some peace and quiet with you."
"So… what do we do now?" Katara asked. "Just wait until the others arrive?"
Zuko nodded. "Sokka said once they have finished their mission they'll come here… with the comet gone, we can only hope that they were successful and are headed this way as we speak."
"I just pray no one else is hurt," I muttered. "It's bad enough you've been wounded…" My fists tightened as I glanced over at the body still restrained to the metal grate of the storm drains. "She really had no remorse for hurting you..."
Leaning against me for support, and also comfort, Zuko glanced over at his unconscious sister with dismay. "I don't even know what to do with her… she's a mess. But… no matter how much I despise her, she's still family…"
I sighed. "She'll definitely need to be locked up though… I know she's your sister, but she can't be given the chance to hurt anyone again."
He kept his arm around my shoulders as I held my arm around his waist. He responded, "Once we get some arm muscle, we'll move her to one of the cells in the palace. We'll just need to make sure she's restrained really well. I'm certain a cell alone will not be enough to keep her contained with her firebending."
"Prince Zuko…" a male voice spoke, breaking into our conversation. We turned to see the five Fire Sages approach. They had disappeared inside the palace during the fight to get to safety, and hearing the battle was done they had returned. The head sage bowed as he continued to speak. "Princess Azula has been defeated, and we are without a Fire Lord. Despite Phoenix King Ozai's decree, you are the rightful heir to the throne. Will you accept the position and lead the Fire Nation like your father before you?"
Zuko bowed in return to the sage, saying, "It would be an honor to lead this nation." He stood straight. "But I will not lead like my father. Things are going to change from this point on."
The Head Sage smiled, and straightened to meet Zuko's gaze. "We are at your service, Fire Lord Zuko. Whatever you need, just ask."
The next hour was spent with Zuko taking leadership and giving his orders. He requested that everyone his sister banished be allowed to come back to the palace if they desired. The Head Sage explained to us that Azula had gone on a power spree and made a majority of the guards and staff leave due to severe paranoia. They were down near the harbor waiting for a ship to take them out of the Fire Nation in the morning. Of course, when The Head Sage asked about the Dai Li who Azula had sent away, Zuko quickly ordered for them to be apprehended. After what happened in Ba Sing Se, the Dai Li could not be trusted. One of the other sages ran off to send a messenger hawk down to the harbor so that everyone could be informed of their invite to return, and to issue warrants for the Dai Li's arrest. Zuko then ordered another sage to send word to the Fire Nation Capital Prison to release all of the war prisoners and bring them to the palace.
He spoke further to the sages about his coronation tomorrow, which would happen once confirmation was received that Ozai was defeated. We were all hopeful that everything had gone according to plan. As Zuko continued his first demands as Fire Lord, Katara and I did our part by putting out the fire that was still eating at the plaza walls and the front of the palace entry. Once the last of the fire was extinguished, we returned back to Zuko who was finally finished with his orders.
At this point, the staff who had managed to avoid banishment came out of the palace upon hearing the news that Azula was defeated. I was thrilled to see Lady Sun, Quan, and Rui were among the small group. The head sage quickly announced to the staff that Zuko was now Fire Lord, to which the whole group cheered or sighed with relief. They had been dreading having Azula as their leader.
Lady Sun quickly came over and hugged me when she spotted me beside Zuko. Zuko was busy being greeted by the other staff who he had known as a child. It filled me with joy to see him so happy to be among familiar faces. Zuko had been kept away from home for three years, and now he could finally return for good. We were all confident Aang had defeated Ozai with the way our own luck was going.
"Oh, Crystal!" Lady Sun exclaimed, hugging me tightly with an embrace that reminded me of my grandmother's hugs. "It is so good to see you again, my dear! Especially in good health." She pulled away and stared at the necklace I was wearing. "Good. I'm glad he gave it to you. I hope we will be having a wedding soon."
I blushed. "Actually, we already did. But we plan to have a formal ceremony once things calm down."
She gasped. Her eyes widened with amazement. She hugged me again, elated by the news I had just given her.
Quan came over then, with Rui following quietly behind. Rui waved at me, and I smiled and waved back to the boy around Aang's age.
Quan bowed to me with relief. "Miss Crystal. It is good to see you have healed since the last time I treated you. We were so relieved to hear you and Zuko had escaped on the war balloon."
I bowed back to him. "Your medicine was a wonderful help during that time." I straightened and grabbed my sister's arm, who was silently observing our interaction. She was surprised when I brought her closer. "My sister Katara helped heal me with her waterbending, but she said your remedy really assisted in keeping the infection on my wrist down."
Quan smiled. "So you are Miss Katara? Crystal told me much about you during our time together on the ship. You have an amazing sister."
She nodded. "I definitely do."
I quickly introduced the group. "Katara, this is Quan, Lady Sun, and Rui. They're the ones I told you about that helped Zuko and I escape the palace."
Katara bowed to them all in greeting, and then hugged me from the side. "Thank you all for watching over my sister. We were so worried about her, so I was glad to hear she had some help during that horrible time."
Lady Sun nodded. "We only wish we could've done more." She smiled though, clapping her hands together. "You all must rest tonight once things calm down. I will go ahead and start setting up the guest rooms. We are a little short staffed at the moment, but I hear the staff and guards who were sent off earlier are returning as we speak. I'll also have the chef cook you some supper. He is still inside the palace."
I smiled with gratitude. "Thank you, Lady Sun."
Rui moved forward, asking, "Is… is the war over?"
My heart pounded. I tried to sound reassuring though. "I hope so. We're waiting for news from the Avatar and the rest of our group."
Lady Sun took my hand to give it a squeeze. "Don't worry, my young friends. I am certain everything has gone according to plan. Iroh wrote highly about each of you. He believed without a shadow of a doubt that the Avatar and his team would finally save us all."
The trio moved to greet Zuko then. As they did, I noticed Katara was hanging her head with angst. Turning, I pulled her into my arms to offer her comfort. She hugged me back, and I felt her body tremble. I knew she was concerned about the others. I was too.
"I'm sure we'll know something soon, Katara."
She let out a heavy breath. "I know… I just hate not knowing if they are okay."
I sighed. "Me too…"
Another hour passed. Quan had managed to dress Zuko's wound to prevent infection until Katara's next healing session. The Head Sage had also draped a fine Fire Nation robe on Zuko as well. In that time, the guards and servants who were originally banished had returned to the palace with relief. This area was their home, and being cast out had terrified them all. As they paid respect to Zuko, I could see everyone was overjoyed that he would be their new leader. They had been led by cruelty for so long. They were ready for some peace of their own.
Once the guards returned, we were informed by one of them that the Dai Li had escaped by hijacking a ship. We weren't thrilled to hear this, but we decided they were a problem we could deal with later. Zuko moved on to other matters and had four of the guards take Azula away to lock her in the cells beneath the palace just until we could figure out what to do with her. As they dragged the unconscious princess away, I hugged Zuko from the side, careful not to touch his dressed wound.
"I'm sorry about your sister," I whispered. "I know it can't be easy for you to see her reach such a state…"
Zuko sighed. "Azula's always been a little crazy… my mom was usually able to keep her in line. However, after mom disappeared she only got worse. Especially with the influence of our wonderful father."
I spoke with reassurance. "Just remember that you have a family now that loves you, Zuko. Katara and Sokka care for you as a brother, and Iroh loves you as a son. And I'm sure my dad will warm up to you more and more as the years pass. Gran Gran may swat you when she sees you, but she'll warm up to you over time too. You're not alone."
He smiled, grateful for my comfort. He kissed me on the cheek, whispering, "And I have a beautiful wife too."
Something suddenly landed on my shoulder. We both jumped from the sudden presence. I pulled from Zuko and looked over to see a familiar creature with big eyes and large ears. He nuzzled my cheek, chattering excitedly.
My eyes widened and my heart filled with joy. "Momo! Where did you come from?!"
Katara gasped. "Aang!"
I looked up and saw an airship approaching from above. On top of the giant machine, I could make out the silhouette of Aang. He jumped off the airship once it got lower and landed in the plaza in front of us, using air to lighten his fall. Once he was on the ground, he ran forward. Katara raced to meet him, and the two embraced with relief. Momo flew off of me, and I rushed over to Aang as well.
"Aang! You're okay!" I was overcome with relief.
Aang pulled from Katara, and quickly gave me a hug as well. "Of course I am. I made a promise, Crystal. I promised that Ozai would never hurt you again."
Zuko came over then. He scolded him. "Hey, Aang! Next time you want to disappear in the middle of the night could you at least leave a note?!"
Aang pulled from me and smiled sheepishly. "Sorry for worrying everyone… I honestly don't even remember leaving Ember Island. I woke up on a giant lion-turtle."
My eyes widened. "A lion-turtle?! They exist? I thought they were a myth."
He nodded. "The lion-turtle taught me what I needed to know to defeat Ozai."
Katara asked softly, "Did… did you kill him?"
He shook his head. "No. He's on the airship with the others. He won't hurt anyone again. I took his bending away."
The three of us fell silent in shock. After a pause, I asked softly, "How did you do that?"
He explained. "Turns out we are all able to bend by the life energy inside us. The Lion-Turtles of ancient times were the ones who granted energy to humans so they could bend the elements. The Lion-Turtle I met showed me how to take this energy out of someone. Once Ozai's life energy was removed, he lost all ability to bend. He's still alive, but he is powerless."
"Wow," Zuko said. "Sounds like you had a very insightful field-trip."
Aang grinned. "Yeah. Riding an ancient Lion-Turtle was a lot more fun than elephant-koi!"
Katara laughed.
"So…" I spoke again. "You all stopped the fleet then? The Earth Kingdom is okay?"
He nodded. "Sokka, Suki, and Toph hijacked an airship and took down the rest of them. Once Ozai was defeated, I put out the fire. The danger has passed. This war is over."
Zuko sighed with relief. "I'm so glad to hear." He turned to the Head Sage again who was standing by and awaiting orders, saying, "Send word out to all nations. All Fire Nation troops are to cease fighting and return home. This war is over."
The Head Sage bowed and left to go start to relay the message.
"Hey… What happened to you, Zuko?!"
Aang's horror sounded, and Zuko looked back at him with confusion. Aang was staring at the bandages on his chest which he could see through the opening of the robe Zuko wore. Zuko calmed his worries by stating with a shrug, "I was jealous of your cool lightning scar, so I had to get one of my own."
Aang laughed, and then stepped forward to place a hand on Zuko's shoulder. "I'm glad you're okay. I'm guessing you were able to defeat Azula then?"
He nodded. "She's been taken to a cell. Crystal knocked her out so she'll probably be unconscious for a few more hours. I've placed guards in the area, and she is restrained heavily."
Aang sighed. Then his eyes widened. "Wait! Crystal knocked her out?!" He looked over at me with bewilderment. "I have got to hear this!"
Katara argued, "We'll have time for war stories later. For now, let's focus on what we should do about Azula… she's still a risk."
Zuko nodded. "Yeah… I was wondering that myself." He looked over at Aang. "Do… do you think you can take away her bending as well?"
Aang was surprised. He hesitated in response. "I… I don't know. It's not easy. In order to do it I have to take someone's energy out of them into me." He sighed. "But it's probably a good idea to try. If she's weak then it will be easier than Ozai was. I'll need to do it in an open place though… It's a lot of energy, so I don't want to blow up the palace."
Zuko nodded. "After tomorrow then… Let's just focus on our victory for now... That way you've also had time to rest."
Aang nodded.
A few moments later, the group had landed the airship outside of the palace walls and came through the plaza's entrance. As they came into view, I saw Ozai was being forced along by two Fire Nation guards. He looked weak, and he also looked as out of it as his daughter. He was shirtless and shoeless, his hair was a mess, and he looked feeble. He also had a bandage on his hand from a wound.
As I stared at Ozai, I couldn't help but shiver from the last time I had seen him. However, the fear was calmed as I took in his defeated state. The man from my memories was not the same man I saw before me. The evil Ozai of my past had been destroyed by Aang. The man being brought towards us was nothing more than a crushed foe.
Zuko stepped up to the man he once called father, who was forced to his knees by the guards who had dragged him over. I was amazed at how quickly everyone turned on their previous leader. Then I realized he had probably used his firebending to cause his guards and staff fear, and they were glad to be done with the cruel man.
Sokka, Suki, and Toph came behind the guards. I was horrified when I saw Sokka limping and using a large wooden stick as a crutch. However, I was also relieved that my family and friends were alive. Seeing my family and friends were okay, I looked back at Zuko as he confronted the man who had caused so much pain and suffering.
"Ozai," Zuko spoke.
The man looked up at him with a scowl. "That's Phoenix King Ozai!"
Zuko stood straight with confidence. "Not anymore. The Avatar has defeated you. Your time of terror over this land has come to an end. You have lost not only your war today, but also your honor and your family. Three years ago you banished me because I spoke out against something I believed was wrong. Today, I, Fire Lord Zuko, banish you from this palace and send you to live the rest of your days in a cell, serving time for every man, woman, and child whose blood is on your hands."
Ozai growled. "You are no Fire Lord! You will fail!"
I stepped forward and took my place beside Zuko. Staring down at the man who I once feared, I no longer felt terror as I stared into his eyes, which glowed from the torches that had been lit to illuminate the plaza. I felt indignation.
He stared at me, and then sneered. "I see you still have your waterbender. She's made you weak! You are nothing but a pathetic—"
My hand shot out and I slapped the monster hard on the cheek. The impact cut him off. Tears fell from my eyes as I faced the monster from my past. Everything he did to me raced through my mind: his threats… his torture… his abuse…
I wanted to kill him. However, I knew the time for killing was over. He was lucky all he got was a slap.
The plaza was silent, shocked by my courage to strike the man that had once been a powerful leader many feared. He was nothing but a weak man now... A man who deserved to rot and fade into nothing...
"No, Ozai," I spoke with resolve. "You're the pathetic one. You are no leader. You're a coward. You used fear and cruelty to rule your people. You manipulated your children to do your bidding. You stole your brother's birthright, and burned your thirteen year old son! And you tortured me all because you wanted to teach Zuko a lesson. You've lost everything due to your greed… and you will rot in a cell for the rest of your days so you can never hurt anyone again." I stepped back, taking Zuko's hand. Zuko squeezed my own to offer me comfort.
Ozai grit his teeth. His head was still turned slightly from my hit. "I should've killed you the day you were brought into the palace. You're nothing but a filthy peasant!"
Zuko snapped, "Don't you dare speak to her that way! You will not disrespect my wife!"
Whispers shot across the guards and servants who were gathered. Many of them had not known this news. Ozai was shocked. Then he broke into manic laughter. "You foolish boy! You have disgraced your nation by marrying this Water Tribe wench!"
Zuko moved from my side so he could crouch slightly in front of the man. He spoke with venom to the heartless beast. "Don't you dare call her that! And you're wrong. This Nation is receiving a gift. Crystal will bring light to our people after over a hundred years of darkness. She will be a Fire Lady loved by all! And you will never lay a hand or eyes on her again!" He stood straight and looked at the two guards. "Take him to the Capital City Prison in one of the most secure cells we have." He looked back at Ozai with victory. "Your time of reign is over. Crystal and I will help rebuild the nation that you and my ancestors destroyed."
We watched as Ozai was dragged out of the plaza and taken to the prison. A few more guards stepped over to assist. As he was taken away, servants and other guards cheered. They were relieved to finally be free of the evil dictator. They were ready for change. Zuko pulled me to his side and I placed my arm around him. We were both finally free of the monster from our past.
Once things calmed again, we greeted the others with elation. Sokka hugged me with relief, glad to see I was okay. I asked him about his leg, and he just shrugged, saying, "Looks like I'm as clumsy as you are. Must be a twin thing."
I rolled my eyes, but hugged him closer. I was so relieved he was okay. Once I greeted Toph and Suki, Lady Sun returned to the plaza to let us know that guest rooms were prepared and a meal was ready to be served.
Appa, who was still outside the plaza, was taken to the stables for some much earned hay and rest by Aang and Rui. Rui had been thrilled to meet the Avatar, and since they were around the same age physically they seemed to bond quickly. Rui was thrilled to meet Momo as well. When the two came back a few minutes later, the group headed to the steps leading into the palace.
Walking through the halls of the palace once we entered, I couldn't help but have some anxiety. Despite knowing our enemies were vanquished, the setting around me brought memories I had tried to suppress. As the group looked around with thrill at the birthplace of Zuko, I shrunk a bit as the dim lit halls put me back to the last time I had walked through them. Zuko noticed my silence as the others chatted with excitement. He put an arm around my shoulders and pulled me to his side.
"No one will hurt you here again," he spoke softly. "You're safe."
I leaned into him for his warmth. "I know," I whispered. "It will just take some time… Be patient with me... I'm better physically, but mentally I'm still damaged... I'll be okay though. Once I start seeing this as home, hopefully the dark memories will fade."
"I'll make sure your memories of this place from now on are only good," he promised.
I smiled over at him to let him know I believed him.
That night, we all ate in the dining room in celebration for our victories. Sokka, Toph, and Suki retold their battle to us in great detail. Sokka even had pretty decent sound effects when he described the airship they originally hijacked slicing through the other airships. Aang retold his fight with Ozai. He explained to us how one of Ozai's attacks hit the blocked chakra inside him which helped him return to the Avatar State. Hearing about his battle filled me with satisfaction. It was nice to hear Ozai had gotten thrown around quite a bit by a kid much shorter than him. When Zuko, Katara, and I went over our own battle, everyone was amazed when Katara explained to them how I fought Azula and managed to defeat her with bloodbending.
"It still amazes me that you and Katara can do that without a full moon," Sokka said. "But then I always knew you both were weirdos."
Katara huffed. "Us weird? You're the one who climbed into Appa's mouth a few days ago!"
Aang was surprised by this. The rest of the group laughed.
Later that night, Zuko walked me through the halls to the room that had once been his a long time ago. We were both exhausted from the long day we had just had, and we knew tomorrow would be an even longer day as we began to restore the world. Lady Sun met us at the doorway and handed me a change of clothes to sleep in. She did the same to Zuko.
"We are going to handle everything for the coronation ceremony tomorrow, Fire Lord Zuko. You both get some rest. I will have some fresh clothes picked out for you once you are awake in the morning." Lady Sun looked over at me. "I have spoken to your sister, Crystal. She and I will begin planning the formal ceremony which will be held in a week's time. Tomorrow we will announce you as Zuko's wife. In a week, you will be crowned Fire Lady."
Her words made shivers run down my spine. This was all happening so fast. However, I knew this was what I wanted. Zuko was my future. I would always belong to the Water Tribe, but I was ready to find my place in the Fire Nation as well.
"Just no peonies," I muttered.
Zuko laughed. "Yes. We don't need you sneezing your crown off."
She smiled. "Of course. You both get some rest. It will be an honor to serve you."
Lady Sun bowed, and then took her leave. Once she was gone, Zuko walked me into the room. He let out a heavy sigh as he took in the sight of his old bedroom which he hadn't been in for three years. I took his hand with the one not holding my outfit, and gave it a comforting squeeze.
"You're home," I whispered.
He turned and cupped my cheek. His thumb brushed the area of my scar as he whispered, "It wouldn't be home without you." He pressed his forehead against my own. "I want you to be happy here…"
I shut my eyes, soaking in the warmth from his touch. I let his hand go, but only so I could brush his own cheek. "I'm happy as long as I'm with you."
His lips met my own, and I welcomed his touch. We both felt peace as the fears we held earlier of today possibly being our last faded away. We had a future now. And I would treasure every day to come.
That night I slept beside Zuko on the large bed in his old room, careful not to hurt him too much. He was still in a lot of discomfort, but he wanted to hold me to him. We had both cleaned up in the washroom connected to Zuko's quarters, and we were relieved to feel refreshed. I also helped put some fresh bandages on Zuko, which I asked one of the servants to bring; they were surprised I was asking rather than demanding. They'd have to get used to it… I wasn't going to order people around...
As we both started to drift to sleep, Zuko's arm rested beneath me and his hand brushed through my hair. "We did it," he whispered. "It feels surreal."
I nodded. "I definitely feel like we could wake up any minute and find this was all a dream."
He sighed. "I don't want to wake up then."
I smiled. "Me neither."
The next morning, Zuko and I were still pressed together, enjoying each other's warmth. Lady Sun had laid some clothing out for us on the low table in the room while we had been sleeping, and I was embarrassed when I noticed this. Zuko was amused from my shock, telling me that servants would do that a lot.
"This is going to be a lot to get used to," I muttered. "Sorry if I embarrass you."
He sighed. "I told you already… I don't care. Don't stress over this. If there's something that makes you uncomfortable, just let me know and I'll tell the servants to refrain from doing it. I want you to be happy here, Crystal. This is your home now."
I nodded. "Okay… I'll let you know."
A knock sounded on the door, and Zuko and I got out of bed. There were red robes that were also laid out for us. I put mine on since I was just wearing a thin nightgown, and then I helped Zuko put his on. He groaned from the movement, and my heart ached for him. "I'm okay," he promised. "Just tender."
As Zuko went to open the door, I walked over to the clothes. I was surprised when I saw a blue dress. I smiled slightly. Lady Sun was trying to make me comfortable.
"Good morning, lovebirds!" Toph shouted. I jumped from her sudden voice.
I looked over to see her come in with Katara following behind. Zuko stepped aside to let them through.
"Nice palace you got, Sparky. I may move in for a few weeks," Toph stated. "I could help you redecorate."
Zuko was amused. "I don't think random boulders around the place counts as decoration."
Katara laughed. "Toph could try and make some statues, but I don't think she'd get your look right."
Toph tapped her chin. "Hmm… I could guess what he looks like. Probably scrawny. Maybe has a beard. Your hair is probably wild too."
"That is a perfect description," Katara teased.
I was humored. "Is that the description of your dream guy, Toph?"
Toph smirked. "Nah. My dream guy is macho and tough."
Zuko shook his head in disbelief. "I'm feeling super insulted right now."
I spoke with encouragement. "You're macho and tough in my eyes, Zuko."
Toph gagged, and Katara giggled.
Katara then forced Zuko back to the bed so she could give him a healing session. While she did that, I asked Toph what the others were up to.
Toph answered, "Aang flew out late last night with Appa to go to the Southern Air Temple and get some air nomad robes. He just got back about an hour ago. And Sokka and Suki are greeting the crowd outside in the plaza."
I was surprised. "Crowd?"
"Yeah," Toph explained. "The war prisoners who were released arrived this morning. Also Fire Nation citizens came for the coronation. And I'm pretty sure your dad and the others got here too. I felt Teo's chair. It's definitely packed."
I was relieved. "Dad's okay?"
Katara answered. "Yeah. I heard the airship arrived this morning. I haven't seen him yet. When I'm done healing Zuko we'll go together."
As Katara continued to heal Zuko, and Toph called him a "sissy" every time he'd make a sound of pain, I went into the washroom to change. Putting on the dress, it was mid sleeved and brushed to my ankles. The color was a dark blue similar to the colors of my home. Putting on some black sandals, and fixing my hair by running my fingers through it, I stepped back in the room to see Katara was wrapping up Zuko again with fresh bandages.
I walked over with concern when I saw him wince. "How are you feeling?"
Zuko answered, "Better. Your sister is a good healer."
Toph added, "But you have a low pain tolerance, Fire Lord Sparky."
Zuko rolled his eyes, muttering, "Getting struck by lightning isn't exactly pleasant, Toph..." He then looked my way and smiled widely. "Lady Sun has a good eye. You look beautiful. It suits you."
I smiled back. "You say that about everything I wear."
He shrugged. "I can brag about my beautiful wife."
"Urgh! Too much mush! I'm out of here." Toph turned on her heel and left.
Katara lingered for a moment. "You should get ready, Fire Lord Zuko. I think there's a line of servants outside to give you royal treatment. While they help you get ready, I'm going to kidnap Crystal. You'll see her when you're crowned." She grabbed my hand.
I looked back at Zuko before I was pulled away, saying, "I guess I'll see you outside."
He nodded. "I'll be looking for you."
I smiled again. "You're going to be an amazing Fire Lord. Everyone will love you. I know I do."
He stepped forward and caressed my cheek. "I wouldn't have made it this far without you, Crys. Thank you." He kissed me on the lips, and then pulled away. "See you in a little bit."
I nodded. Katara jerked me out of the room then, muttering about lovesick polar-dogs. As we headed down the hall, I could see the male servants were indeed waiting to help Zuko dress. The bowed to us as we passed, and I just stared at them with surprise. This was going to take a lot of getting used to.
After being dragged for a moment, I asked Katara where she was kidnapping me to.
"The room I'm staying in. Your hair is a mess! If you're going to be introduced as Zuko's wife today then we should at least fix these tangles."
I sighed. I knew I couldn't argue with her. My hair was a bit messy from my sleep last night.
Once we got to Katara's room, I sat in front of her on the small bed. As she ran a wooden comb through my hair, she asked softly, "How are you feeling about everything?"
I fiddled with my fingers which rested on my lap as I sat on the edge of the bed. "Honestly, I'm nervous. Being here… actually about to become Fire Lady… it's making everything so real. Before, it was all just a plan. It's really happening though. I guess I'm just scared of all the ways I can screw up."
"Crys…" Katara spoke softly. She stopped combing my hair and placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. "All you need to do is be yourself. Zuko loves you. From what I have gathered the Fire Nation loves you both together too. Don't worry. Just take it day by day. If you ever need a break from palace life, you know the Southern Water Tribe will always be happy to have you home for a few days."
I nodded. "Thanks, Katara... I'm sure this is hard for you and Sokka, but you both will always be my family."
She hugged me from behind, placing her chin on my shoulder. "As long as you're content, Sokka and I will be happy for you."
A few moments later Katara and I headed out of the palace and back to the plaza where the coronation ceremony would be held. In the daylight, the damage from the night before was much more apparent. It definitely looked like a battle had taken place. Pieces of the plaza wall were missing and singed.
As the crowd came into view, I was bewildered to see the whole area was packed with people from front to back. Sokka, and Toph were in the crowd near the front. Around them I saw people dressed in clothing of all nations. There was one group wearing leaf hats, green loincloths, arm bands, and wrappings; I gathered these were the waterbending swamp people Sokka told me had fought with them during the eclipse. Fire Nation citizens and soldiers stood to one side, our friends from the Earth Kingdom stood on the other side of the swamp people, and the Water Tribe Warriors were on the edge. I was glad to see everyone who fought the other week during the eclipse had been released from prison.
Katara and I rushed over to Sokka and the others. Sokka had a nicer wooden crutch that Quan had given him, which I had been grateful about since Sokka almost fell five times from his horrible make-shift crutch the night before. Quan confirmed last night his leg was indeed broken and Katara gave him a healing session before bed. It would still take some time to fully repair, but he said he was in a lot less pain.
"There you are," Sokka said. "You didn't happen to see dad in the crowd while you were up on the steps, did you?"
Katara shook her head. "I'm sure if he's here he's with the other Water Tribe Warriors."
Toph concentrated on the crowded area. She pointed to the left of her. "He's that way. The others from the group are with him."
We headed in the direction she pointed. As we brushed through the crowd, we saw The Duke, Teo, Haru, and Pipsqueak. They were amongst a crowd of others I did not know, but my family did. Then we saw the man we were looking for. He was speaking to Bato, smiling and elated that his men who fought during the eclipse had finally been set free from prison.
All three of us shouted to our father with excitement. He turned from speaking to Bato and his smile grew. "Sokka! Katara! Crystal!" He rushed over and hugged all three of us at once, so it was pretty tight. He spoke with pride. "I heard what you three did. I am the proudest father in the world. And your mother would be proud too."
"We were so worried," I said. "I'm so glad you all got out of the Western Air Temple okay!"
"Thanks to Haru's earthbending and Ty Lee's knowledge of the Fire Nation, we were able to hide out well these last few days. We received word last night while disguised in town that Aang defeated the Fire Lord and you all were here for the coronation. We came as soon as we heard."
I was relieved. "I'm so glad you made it."
"Crystal!" Ty Lee's voice rang from nearby. I pulled from my dad and was surprised to see Ty Lee skipping over in Kyoshi Warrior clothing. Suki was in her uniform as well with three other Kyoshi Warriors behind her. Sokka and I left dad to go greet them.
I was baffled. "Ty Lee? You're a Kyoshi Warrior now?"
She grinned. "I spoke to Suki this morning and begged! They had an extra uniform and everything! Suki was impressed with my Chi blocking and told me if I give them lessons then I can join the group! And since Haru lives in the Earth Kingdom that means I can live closer to him!" She put her arms around two of the other warriors' shoulders. "We're going to be best friends forever!"
I smiled. "Glad to hear."
"What about me?" A familiar voice spoke. My heart skipped. Shivers ran down my spine. "Am I still your friend?"
Ty Lee grinned wider. "Mai!" She rushed past me to hug her friend.
My fists tightened. Turning, I looked over to see the thin tall girl with black hair hugging her friend back. Sokka noticed from where he stood by Suki, and hobbled over beside me, putting an arm around me. He knew how I felt about the girl, and he was probably trying to calm me from lashing out.
"They let you out of prison?!" Ty Lee asked with thrill.
Mai smiled. "Yeah. My uncle pulled a few strings. Sorry about everything I said to you before… I was a jerk."
Ty Lee waved her off. "No worries. I understand you were just upset. I'm so glad you're here!"
I scowled. Mai looked over and met my gaze. She grimaced when she saw the distrust in my expression.
"I think we need to talk," Mai spoke.
"I have nothing to say to you," I spoke with bitterness, my heart pounding as the memories of her cruelty returned. "It's best we just keep our distance. You're lucky I don't attack you." I muttered to Sokka, "Let's go."
"Wait." She grabbed my arm. I jerked away from her which made Sokka stumble slightly. She tried to keep calm and make amends. "Zuko and I talked at the prison. I have finally realized there's nothing I can do to win him from you. I accept that you've won his heart and will let him go. I hope we can get along from here on out for Zuko and Ty Lee's sake." She held her hand towards me. Ty Lee watched with angst.
I was appalled. "Get along?" Sokka held me closer to him when he felt my body tremble. "You insulted me, slapped me, sliced my neck with a knife in Ba Sing Se, shoved my face in a bowl of mashed up food to degrade me, and you expect me to just forget it all?" I swat her hand away. "There are some things I can forgive… your treatment is not one of them, Mai."
She dropped her hand. Her eyes narrowed. "Whether you like it or not, Zuko and I are childhood friends. So—"
"Zuko is welcome to be friends with anyone he desires," I spoke softly. "But don't expect me to be cordial to you. I'm not heartless like Azula, but I've been hurt too much by you to ever see you as anything but a darkness from my past."
Ty Lee grimaced. "Crys… Azula made her—"
I interrupted. "Ty Lee… I understand Mai is your friend. Nothing you say will change the way I feel about her though." My eyes burned with tears as I stared at Mai who dropped her gaze. "Everything she did was by her own hand… I'm not going to tell Zuko who he can and can't be friends with… but don't ever expect anything from me. I can't forgive you for what you did..."
Mai crossed her arms. "Then I guess there's nothing else to be said."
"No…" I said softly. "There isn't." I looked over at Sokka. "Go back to Suki… I'm fine. I'm going to go find Toph."
Sokka nodded. He glared at Mai though, who was walking away herself. Ty Lee seemed conflicted, but she chased after Mai to try and talk to her. Sokka asked softly, "You want me to say something to Zuko?"
I sighed. "No… Zuko knows how I feel about her. Just let it go, Sokka... Today's supposed to be a good day. Let's celebrate and move on."
Sokka hugged me to him with one arm. "Okay… just let me know if she bothers you again. I'll beat her with my crutch."
I smiled slightly. "Thanks, Sokka."
Eventually I made my way back over to Toph, who was talking to two really buff men. I found myself calm as I distracted my mind from Mai and focused on other things. Toph introduced me to the two men: the shorter more muscled guy was named The Boulder, and the taller and heavier set guy was Hippo. She told me she once fought them back in her days as the Blind Bandit. I greeted them both.
"The Boulder has heard about you," the man spoke in third person. "The Boulder is excited to see a waterbender become Fire Lady."
I thanked him, and then whispered to Toph, "Does he always speak in third person?"
She nodded. "Yeah. It's his persona." She then turned towards me. "Are you okay by the way? I felt you shaking a moment ago?"
I grimaced. "I'm fine. Just ran into a darkness from my past…"
She punched me playfully in the arm. "Let me know if you need me to rough anyone up for you, Princess. You know I got your back."
I gave a small smile. "I know. Thanks, Toph."
A gong suddenly sounded. The crowd fell silent. We all turned to look towards the top of the stairs where the coronation platform was. The head sage from the night before, stepped out holding a diadem with both hands. "Attention!" He shouted out to the crowd. "The coronation ceremony will begin!"
Cheers sounded from the crowd. Toph nudged me in the side. "Yours is next week, I hear. No pressure, right?"
I felt my heart pound. "As long as I don't trip and make a fool of myself."
Toph laughed. "Sorry, Princess. Knowing you that is inevitable."
I rolled my eyes. "Thanks for the encouragement."
"You're welcome," she spoke, grinning at me.
The gong suddenly was pounded three times by a fire sage. The five sages from the night before, bowed with respect as Zuko stepped into view on the platform. His servants had definitely dressed him up well. His hair was up in a perfect topknot. He wore a dark red Fire Nation robe with gold lining, and black and red shades near the collar. He definitely was handsome up on the coronation platform, and I felt my heart flutter. I was one lucky girl to have won the heart of such an amazing young man.
As he stepped further out on stage, the crowd around me cheered with elation. Zuko raised his arm to call their attention. "Please! The real hero is the Avatar!"
He stepped aside, and Aang came out onto the platform coming beside him. I saw he was indeed wearing a fine air nomad outfit, and he had a large medallion hanging from his neck. From the scrolls I read at the Western Air Temple, I knew this was an air nomad master's robe. The crowd cheered louder. I smiled widely, glad Aang was finally getting the respect he deserved.
Once the crowd softened again, Zuko spoke with firmness. "Today, this war is finally over." Everyone around me cheered with joy again. He held a hand up to silence the crowd after a moment. Once the cheers dimmed he spoke again. "I promised my Uncle that I would restore the honor of the Fire Nation, and I will. The road ahead of us is challenging. A hundred years of fighting has left the world scarred and divided. But with the Avatar's help, we can get it back on the right path, and begin a new era of love and peace."
Zuko knelt down then, and the Head Sage walked over with the headpiece crown he had been about to give Azula the day before. He inserted the diadem into Zuko's topknot, while shouting, "All hail Fire Lord Zuko!"
The crowd cheered and Zuko lifted his head up. The Head Sage dismissed himself, keeping his head bowed as he backed off the platform. Zuko stood up and walked towards the edge of the platform looking out towards the crowd. He turned back to Aang, and gestured for the young Avatar to come forward to also receive applause. As the two stepped forward for all to see, I smiled at the both of them with elation.
It was amazing to think that just a few months ago they were nothing but enemies. Today, they were best friends.
Zuko held his hands up after a moment to silence the crowd once again. "Before we end this ceremony today, I have one final announcement…"
Silence fell as everyone waited for him to speak.
A smile formed on his face, as he continued. "Many of you have heard of the rumors about me falling for a certain waterbender..."
Toph muttered beside me. "Fell hard from what I hear."
Zuko's eyes swept the crowd until they finally met my own. I blushed and my heart started to pound. Toph coughed a laugh when she felt my reaction.
Zuko continued, looking back at his audience. "I'm happy to announce today that the rumors are true. During my banishment, at a time when I believed capturing the Avatar was my only purpose, I took prisoner a waterbender from the Southern Water Tribe. At the time, all I desired was to earn my father's love and be allowed to return home. I was a selfish and greedy prince, much like the man that once stood where I do today. However, during our time together, this strange girl opened my eyes and allowed me to see the world in a new way. She taught me how to smile again… how to laugh… and how to follow my heart. I fell in love with this beautiful chief's daughter. We were engaged in the Earth Kingdom, and then married on Ember Island..."
There were gasps from the crowd. My heart pounded harder in my ears. I was pretty certain I heard my father shout something too. I realized no one had probably told him and I had to resist the urge to cover my face.
Zuko finished. "And a week from now, we will formally crown her as the new Fire Lady." He met my gaze again and his hand stretched towards me. "Crystal."
Toph shoved me forward, and I stumbled. I glared back at her, but I knew she couldn't see it. With a sigh, I shakily moved up the stairs. I took his hand into my own once I reached the top, and he pulled me beside him so that I was between him and Aang. Aang placed a comforting hand on my shoulder for a moment. Zuko then placed an arm around my waist and kissed me on the cheek.
"Just smile," he whispered. "You're beautiful."
I whispered back, "I didn't tell my dad yet. Now he's going to kill you after this."
Zuko coughed a laugh. "I think the guards can hold him back."
I rolled my eyes. I blushed bright red and smiled though, waving to the crowd who were cheering with delight. As I looked at the Fire Nation citizens and the Water Tribe warriors who were cheering before us, I felt suddenly at ease.
This was the right path. Zuko and I would be a symbol that water and fire could come together in harmony. The Fire Lord and the Southern Water Tribe chief's daughter united as one would be a sign of hope for the world that we no longer needed to be divided due to our differences.
We still had a long road ahead of us to repair the world, but as long as we worked together, Team Avatar could do anything.
