Zuko was fully aware that the only reason he hadn't let his temper flare and lash out at Nanook, was Katara's cooling force beside him. But the flame in his core was harsh. The feeling of anger and betrayal spreading to his fingertips. There was even to his most alarm and surprise a twinge of fear. How has he missed his boarding or his pleas to travel with them? Had Nanook seen their affection? Were there spies in his midst? And how was this week going to go with him so near?
This was supposed to be Katara's trip. Not Aang's, or Zuko's, or a Northern Water Tribe visit. No this was a Southern Water Tribe representation by the new Ambassador to Cranefish Town. He didn't want anyone meddling her moment or there would be another war to start, perhaps even a civil war. He knew he wasn't a neutral party, but alone with Katara attending, it wouldn't have been obvious which of the Water Tribes owed his allegiance. He couldn't stand those calculating all-seeing silver eyes of the Water Tribe warrior. And while this was all a business trip, he had very much looked forward to spending nights away from palace eyes and ears and be with Katara.
Even among the many eyes and ears at the palace, they were always able to find some privacy. Some where he could hold her in his arms. After years of longing, now that he could, not being able to was even more torturous. He could not imagine his life anymore without her. The fantasy he had had about this trip was now dashed into pieces. As if Aang's presence wouldn't have caused enough stress already.
Ignoring the smug look on Nanouk's face, Zuko closed his eyes briefly for some inner meditation. Then he pasted on one of his most convincing smiles and stepped forward to greet his other ambassador.
"Ambassador Nanouk. What a surprise! I wasn't made aware you would be joining us. I hope you can forgive my lack of greeting or attention." Giving him a bow, he could see his friendly greeting has surprised the young man. At least this gave him a feeling of satisfaction.
"I… I am sorry to hear it. I was clear to my people that they had to inform you. Obviously that didn't happen."
"Obviously." Zuko hoped the doubt in his voice wouldn't be picked up. But if Nanouk had wanted to retort, Katara's greeting prevented him.
"How wonderful to see you. I am surprised too though. I thought we had decided that security measures wouldn't be necessary once it's full moon?""
"I don't doubt your skill Ambassador Katara," Zuko held back a snort. "But I do have to admit that with the recent attacks, extra caution isn't unwise. And several of my contacts in the mining industry had asked for my coming. This seemed a fitting trip to meet them again."
"Is that the same industry Fire Lord Zuko and I had a meeting planned?" The surprised smile didn't reach Nanouk's silver eyes.
"Oh really? How convenient! I will take some time to show you the North's agreements and deals. Perhaps that can help you too."
"I am sure it will." Zuko smiled at her sarcasm laced tone.
"Shall we go below deck?" He stepped between them and nodded to Nanouk to go first down the stairs. "Leaving Caldera harbour always gets rather choppy."
With a quick hand squeeze and shared look, Katara and Zuko were on the same page. Their lovey dovey trip had changed and they would have to be careful.
Within hours they were crossing the Fire Nation sea border to the Earth Kingdom. Alterations in the engines had made the journey faster. They would spend only two nights at sea. Quite a few of his crew had been part of his banishment team. Their long time at sea had made them some of the best navigators and their loyalty towards their Fire Lord was unquestionable. Zuko trusted every single one of them with his life.
The sun had started to set and dinner was prepared. In shifts they ate together. Nanouk was flanked by several serious looking guards. Zuko and Katara had seen the men in passing in the Palace or the Water Tribe Embassy. But this was the first time they had time to get to know them. Not that there was much to learn. Although they were part of the diplomatic core, they were obviously chosen for their brawn rather than their brain. One of them reminded Katara an awful lot of Han, who had been Princess Yue's fiancé.
It was obvious that they weren't comfortable across a woman in such a high position from the Water Tribe, and especially when she was receiving admiring attention from both Zuko and Nanouk. Despite her annoyance at Nanouk's unwanted presence, she got a bit of a kick out of Zuko's protectiveness. In private, he had made it very clear how much he loved her, wanted her, build a life with her, and she couldn't agree more. But as long as they kept their relationship secret and the world still saw her as single and available, more men would try their luck. Competing like lion peacocks to catch her attention. In public Zuko tried to act more like Sokka, an overbearing brother figure. But in private he would make sure that she would scream his name.
While having dinner they had gone over the planning with Nanouk, who kept hammering up with security questions. Katara tried to keep her voice friendly but with a firm tone.
"Ambassador Nanouk, I appreciate your concern, but as we decided in Caldera, both Fire Lord Zuko and I are used to defending ourselves against a wide range of benders and warriors, particularly those with ties to former Fire Lord Ozai. Of course you are welcome to accompany us at the governors meeting and the ore factory seeing as you have an appointment there yourself. But the visits to the hospitals, cultural centres and the meeting with Avatar Aang, we will do ourselves. It would be too crowded otherwise." As Nanouk shifed in obvious discomfort, she saw a glimpse of a smile on Zuko's face. He didn't look at her, his intense golden stare directed at the men in front of him, daring them to respond. But with their own stance unflinching and strong during the preparations and the journey so far, the Northern Water Tribe knew the boundaries had been drawn up. It was simply take it or leave it. And so, like a river changing its course, Nanouk bowed respectfully and smiled, accepting their plan.
"Well then, now that its decided, I would like us to enjoy this trip and look forward to introducing my contacts when we get there." Then as a true politician, he seemed to shake off any disappointment he might have felt and drew up a Pai Sho board. Turning to Zuko, he now gave a genuine grin. "Your uncle's skills are legendary, so I was hoping your majesty would do me the honour of several rounds?" At this Zuko couldn't help but smile back.
"My skills are not my uncle's, but I have started to enjoy the game, so I will accept your challenge."
And they happily spent the last few hours of the day playing. After 5 games, 4 of which Zuko had won, they retired to their cabins. Both Zuko and Katara were happy to discover that the Northern delegation had been assigned arrangements on the opposite end of the hallway. Danger of being caught decreased significantly. Having snuck into Zuko's cabin, Katara happily lay in his warm arms, feeling the ocean sway her into sleep.
Personally the trip had become more difficult. But she had never backed away from a challenge. And perhaps this way her focus would remain on the most important goal, establish ties with the industries of bustling Cranefish Town and put herself and the Southern Water Tribe back on the map. She hoped that without Aang, people could actually acknowledge her, see her worth and involve her into business and politics like she so desperately wanted. She knew that unlike Aang, Zuko would be all too happy to put people in their place and give her the spotlight to shine. It seems, as if subconsciously he was looking for a wife who could stand her ground and didn't mind being in the spotlight more than he was himself. It would be a happy and wonderful combination. Butterflies erupted in her stomach as she looked over to the man in question, who had already fallen asleep beside her. Yes, she felt happiness and excitement at the prospect of marrying him. And that surprised her. She had never felt the need to get 'settled' as GranGran called it. The thought of it had suffocated her when she had been with Aang, who had brought it up often himself, despite them being far too young. But now, with the right age and more importantly the right man, she could hardly wait.
The next day passed in similar fashion. Thankfully the Northern Tribe had decided to halt their protests completely. Without any meddling, Zuko had to admit that privately Nanouk was pleasant company. He was friendly and smart, with a sly sense of humour that Zuko particularly enjoyed. He hoped that in time they would be able to work together just as well, and that this competition for Katara's attention would seize to exist. With competition he immediately found himself thinking of Aang. Despite all the awkwardness after his breakup with Katara, Zuko was looking forward to seeing the young airbender again. They had still corresponded the past few months, but it was mainly business and politics related and he missed his best friend. He just prayed to Agni that all would go well and that his friendship with Aang wouldn't be destroyed once he and Katara went public with their relationship.
In no time at all the Cranefish Town harbour was spotted on the horizon and they greeted the passing fishing boats. Waiting for them on the pier was the combined Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation representatives and local council members. The governor, a short stout man with sharp brown eyes and a large moustache seemed very pleased at the high level visit. Katara spotted some Water Tribe members in the crowd and even saw flashes of vibrant orange, which made her heart jump in anticipation. As they drew nearer however she saw that it wasn't Aang, but Niyok, bouncing happily up and down to greet her old friend. She had left her job at the Earthen Fire Industries 3 years ago and became part of the Air Acolytes. She had been one of the few friends Katara had at the Air Temples. But while Katara travelled with Aang wherever the wind took him, Niyok stayed in the Northern Air Temple to stay relatively close to her sister Nusha, who still worked in the Earth Kingdom. Katara couldn't help but feel excited at the reunion. It would also be nice to have another friend mediate between herself and Aang. Zuko had never been the best mediator.
The docking went smoothly and their disembarkment sparked lively activity. The governor staggered in his long formal robes to be the first to greet Zuko. Then he bowed down deeply when Zuko introduced Katara, a genuine pleasant smile on his face.
"We have eagerly awaited your arrival Ambassador Katara of the Southern Water Tribe. As you can see quite a few of our members are from your home tribe. It would be great to work together and build something special for you here."Katara returned his welcoming gesture.
"Thank you Governor Yu. I look forward to it myself. I already see some familiar face which fills my heart with joy." And with that Niyok stepped out of the crowd to warming embrace her friend.
"It is wonderful to see you again Katara. To see you so full of life! Obviously the ambassadorship in the Fire Nation has brought you joy." Katara hoped her face wasn't too flushed and she saw Zuko abruptly turning to greet another council member. She smiled at her eager friend.
"It is wonderful to see you too Niyok, what a great surprise! I wasn't expecting to see you here! Where…" and she stretched her neck to look over the heads in the crowd. "Where is Aang?"
"Oh don't worry! I know things are a bit awkward after, well you know. But he is here. His meeting with the animal shelter is running later than expected. I am sure he will be at the governors meeting though." Then her clear blue eyes shone proudly. "You inspired me to step up more Katara. I am learning more of what it means to be an Air Acolyte and help Avatar Aang on his journey for peace and harmony. This is my first engagement too. Aang thought I could learn a lot from you." Katara couldn't hide her surprise, which made Niyok giggle. "Just because you broke up doesn't mean he thinks badly of you. His respect will never waiver." Although Katara was sceptical, those words brought peace into her anxious heart.
"I am glad to hear it. I will always respect him for the person he is and hope he finds the same happiness that I've found." She catch Zuko's eye who smiled. It took all her will power not to take hold of his hand. Instead she took Niyok's into her own and let her friend guide her through the crowd, introducing people as they made their way to the waiting carriages.
Governor Yu's residence, where they would be staying for the coming week lay on higher ground, and it was quite a trek for the ostrich-horses to pull them and their luggage up to the grand looking build, made of yellow stone and decorated with shining green roof tiles and shutters. Despite now being so far from the sea, Katara couldn't help but admire the stunning view the higher altitude provided, looking of the bay area. What once had been a small fishing and mining town, was transforming into a true city, with all the newest inventions and technology. Even from up here, she could see the building techniques Toph and her school of metal benders provided to the newly erected offices. The house she currently entered was still rather traditional in comparison. A widely setup square, two story building with adjoining rooms, all facing an inner courtyard. She let out a small disappointed sigh as she and Zuko were separated off into rooms opposite each other, divided by the green tea garden.
Her room was simple but elegant and would be perfect for her stay. She quickly unpacked, helped by one of the maids and changed into one of her first official gowns. It was one of the least formal she had brought. The upcoming lunch with some of the company directors and heads of the cultural centres was to be as casual as possible in order to get to know each other before all the high profile events and visits would start. Being further north than the Fire Nation, her dress was made of a heavier periwinkle silk, decorated with white flowers that were found in rare regions of the poles. A light fur trim showed off her Water Tribe heritage and she fastened her qilliqti in a braided bun, which she topped with Zuko's comb. She also unwrapped his latest gift, the beautiful bracelet she had seen on Ember Island during their holiday but never bought. He had felt too awkward about buying it for her behind her back that he only gave it to her a day before their departure. She smiled as the abalone shell sparkled in the sunlight.
The lunch room was highly decorated with large paintings and artefacts. Several guest were already present sitting at the round mahogany table. Zuko was one of them. Without his large crown piece and severe top knot, he looked younger and more relaxed. His half up do framed his pronounced cheekbones, the hair flowing on his back made Katara giddy. A smaller fire crown accented the bun on his head. He caught her eyes and gave her a roughish grin and wink. She immediately felt her cheeks heat up as butterflies erupted in her stomach. To her pleasant surprise, they were actually seated next to each other and Zuko took the opportunity to squeeze her hand beneath the table and whispered softly.
"You look gorgeous." She grinned back.
"You don't look bad yourself, you never look this… cool in the Palace." The hunger in his eyes was evident as he stared at her lips.
"My ministers would have panic attacks if they saw me like this. But I'll try better in private." Katara hoped none else would see the blush on her face deepen. He was right of course. The casual dark red tunic, paired with a sleek sleeveless black vest and held together with a heavy gold embroidered belt, was a far cry from the heavy and stiff robes he usually wore. She liked it, a lot and gave him an encouraging nod. Had they been in the Palace, Zuko might have delayed the meeting right then and there, as his stare heated up. But no such authority was held here and the room had begun to fill up further, with the governor, Northern Water Tribe delegation, and as very last, Aang.
Katara felt her heart jump in alarm and worry, and it saddened her that she felt this way seeing one of her best friends after so many months. He looked even taller than during their last meeting, and thinner. Without her coddling behaviour and rich meals, it seemed the last of the child roundness of his face had gone. There was an aloofness in his step and when their eyes met from across the table, he looked away instantly. She bit her lip to not show any pain on her face. This is what she had expected and dreaded, the reason why it had taken her so long to call an end to their relationship. She could only hope that in time these feelings would pass. But for now she was sure that revealing her relationship with Zuko would only add further insult to injury. Perhaps even cause a political crisis, and she wanted to avoid that as much as possible. And so she pasted on her kindest smile in case their eyes crossed again and tried to focus her attention on the welcome speech Governor Yu gave before the food was brought in.
The lunch went rather better than they had expected. The other guests in attendance were interested to get to know Katara better, trying to make a good impression. Even Aang wouldn't be able to deny that the fact she was no longer bond to him led to more interactions and interest in her. Whether he thought that was a good thing was still up in the air. Niyok, who had seemed to replace her being Aang's shadow smiled at her encouragingly as two important harbour business men seemed to wage a competition who's warehouse she would visit first. Zuko had been relatively quiet, leaning back to see and watching every things unfold. Once the warehouse arguing was threatening to get out of hand he interfered.
"Ambassador Katara and I had already made plans to visit the Water Tribe fishing industries that morning. I believe we can combine this with your warehouse Master Chen, as it is on route to our next meeting. Your warehouse Master Li is on the other side of the harbour and I am afraid that a very short visit won't do it justice. Perhaps we could come two days from now, if that is convenient for you?" Whether it was or wasn't, Master Li bowed at the honour of a last minute planned visit by the pair.
"So is it true that the Fire Lord will be accompanying you on all visits?" A curious member of the Earth Fire Industries quipped, her eyes still peeled on the planning in front of her.
"Yes, that is correct." Katara answered as Zuko respectfully bowed his head at the lady in question. From the corner of her eye, she saw Aang's eyebrow rise in surprise. "Fire Lord Zuko kindly offered to do so. As Ambassador to the Fire Nation, this seemed convenient for all of us." Ignoring the questioning gaze she was receiving from the young Air Bender, she focused her attention to Chief of the Water Tribe cultural centre, Aykhana. "We very much look forward to dining with you this evening. It will be great to taste some dishes from home with a special twist." A look of pride passed over the elder woman.
"Likewise Ambassador Katara, it will be an honour. Especially for our Southerners here it is lovely to see a familiar face. Although we've been very happy to receive the Northern representatives with such frequency." The woman, with thick grey braids running along her face, filled with multiple beads, nodded as Nanouk who gave a genuine smile. "You will also being seeing me at the hospital tomorrow." Now it was Katara's turn to look surprised.
"You are a waterbender too?"
"Yes, I was trained in the Northern tribe and have been teaching medicine here for the past 5 years. I remember your and the Avatar's visit to my tribe well." Several of the water tribe members chuckled as did Katara herself. Even Aang seemed happy to be reminded of such times.
"Well I am sure that wasn't due to my healing abilities."
"No that's true, but it is refreshing to learn different types of techniques. Even at my older age, you never stop learning. Our centre here has been specialising to bring in as many technique as we can. We would be honoured for a demonstration. Perhaps it can be beneficial for different types of benders as well."
"My uncle, General Iroh would be very happy to hear such sentiments. He has spent his years studying all types of benders. The technique of redirecting lightening that he taught me was inspired by your water bending moves. We are all stronger if we learn from each other. That means to be the ethic of this city." Zuko interjected. His lightening technique sparked mutterings of approval around the room and Aykhana gleamed with excitement.
As lunch came to an end, Zuko and Katara, together with Governor Yu set off to the first visit, the United Council. The newly build office had three wings to encompass officials from the three nations that were presently at work. Especially the immigration office was busy. Hearing of all the business opportunities people from all over the world came to the city. A recent agreement made between Zuko, King Kuei and Aang, meant that another former Fire Nation colony had become part of the United Nations Republic, which meant another influx of lands, workers and taxes. Katara still found it nearly unbelievable to see people that had been on opposing battle lines not even 10 years ago, now working together for a common goal.
After a long tour, they found themselves back at the governor's residence, getting ready for dinner at the Water Tribe Cultural Centre. Both Zuko and Katara had agreed they would hold an inclusive bending demonstration, and choose their evening wear appropriately. With simple dark blue pants and high slit skirt Katara made sure she could move properly. A fur trimmed blue overcoat with moon embroidery from crushed shells added some much needed bling. She would also be able to remove it easily before sparring. She was going to tie it all off with a leather belt with Northern Water Tribe purple dyed silk when she eyes fell on a dark red belt with silver thread. She had bought it during a trip to Omashu a year ago. The swirl wave pattern was reminiscent of her heritage, but the red colour obviously looked Fire Nation. Perhaps it would be obvious, but she felt it was sneaky enough and she was sure Zuko would catch the hint. She had released her hair from the formal braided bun and instead fastened her regular half up do, but with some extra accent braids and beads, and Zuko's comb finished off the decoration.
Zuko greeted her as she left her room. To her surprise he too had dug through his luggage and was wearing a navy blue shirt with wide sleeves and beaded trim beneath his Fire Nation vests. His eye was immediately drawn to her red sash and he grinned.
"Are we already starting to think alike, I didn't know that would happen so fast." Katara laughed and came over to feel the navy material. It was a soft silk.
"Well we've known each other for so long, it was bound to happen eventually."
"That's true," He let his own fingers trace her cheek going up to his comb. "Do you like it?" He murmured softly.
"It's beautiful! Where did you get it?"
"During one of my last trips here. Bought it from one of the vendors on high street that we passed today. I figured it would be good to blend in a bit."
"They will see it as an honour."
"So not too obvious?" She giggled.
"Perhaps… but that might be all in our mind. In any case we should get going before someone sees us." She took a step back, but Zuko quickly looked around before pulling her back for a quick but intense kiss.
"I miss not being able to do that whenever I want."
"Oh dear. What if one of us has to go away for a few days. Would you survive?"
"No absolutely not." She grinned and then somewhere they heard a door open and jumped apart. They saw one of the staff disappear towards the kitchens, but it was their que to go. At the entrance hall they waited for the Northern delegation before climbing into the waiting carriages and heading towards the centre.
The sun had already started to set, creating a wonderful golden glow over the harbour that had been named Yue's Bay. The Water Tribe centre was made out of white marble with pale blue edges. Like the one in the Fire Nation capital, it reflected the Northern style architecture, with multiple stories, all elegantly carved. In front of its large entrance was a courtyard with two large fountains. Many of the Water Tribe populations had gathered together to welcome them. Standing out from the crowd were Aang and Niyok in their bright orange and yellow robes. Their interaction with Aang had been minimal so far, and as far as Katara knew they would only have an official Air Temple Island tour later in the week. It had been one of Aang's latest projects. The temple had been completed during her extended stay at the South Pole so she hadn't seen it yet. He gave them a genuine smile though as they entered the courtyard and Katara and Niyok exchanged a traditional greeting. Aykhana meanwhile happily remarked upon Zuko's shirt, which resulted in more approving stares.
The courtyard had been prepared for a bending demonstration, but as Katara unwrapped her overcoat Aang came to her. He scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, and she recognised her friend with his shy grey eyes.
"Um Katara?"
"Yes Aang?"
"I was wondering, perhaps, if you would like to, that we do some bending together as well? You've taught me a lot and it could be interesting to show." He stumbled, never looking at her directly. But his sentiments were sweet, it felt like a peace offering. And after a quick glance at Zuko, who shrugged, she smiled at Aang.
"I think that's a great idea. How about we start and then Zuko can take over?" A grateful smile passed over the young Avatar's face.
"Alright!" He acrobatically leapt into the air, letting Niyok catch his staff and floated into the assigned area. Chuckling Katara handed her own coat and sash to Zuko before entering as well.
With a swift draw she surrounded herself with a circle of water as Aang pulled a large water whip from the fountain. Their eyes met and it seemed all the awkwardness and hurt feelings vanished. They were back where they began, waterbending together. Katara felt a surge of energy and they started to move. As a classic airbender Aang's movements with swift, with large fluid motions he bended the water towards her. Katara stayed grounded, using his long movements with faster counters. A dance of a sea eagle and tiger shark, that was how they attacked, defended and evaded. She found Aang's repeated patterns and weak spots, targeted them heavily. She tried to block out the excited chattering coming from the side lines. Obviously the crowd enjoyed the show. Aang had evaded one of her ice daggers she had repelled from her water ring. Gracefully he leapt onto the fountains edge. There was a cheer and in responds he gave an extra spin. But that was a mistake. Katara had found her opening and charge the remaining water straight at him. She was too fast and the water too heavy to stop, and with a surprise cry Aang tumbled backwards into the fountains.
Several more shocked cries came from the spectators and worried Katara started to come toward the fountain. But seconds later Aang re-emerged from the water, filling the air with his infectious throaty laugh.
"That was great!" His large grin took over his entire face and Katara couldn't help but return it. They looked at each other for several seconds. A new awareness passed over his grey before a new more serious expression passed over him. Then to her surprise he bowed deeply. "Thank you, Sifu Katara." Full of joy she bowed back, and with that Aang hopped through the air and landed in front of Zuko.
"Your turn!" He said cheerfully and patted Zuko on the back. Zuko too looked taken back at this newly found cheerfulness, but returned the Avatar's grin. He had removed his dark blue tunic, with only his dark red vest remaining, his bare chest exposed. He cocked a sly eyebrow at Katara, as she tried desperately not to let her eyes linger too long.
"Anything the matter, Sifu Katara?" She focused her eyes back on his. He would pay for this later and he knew it. But for now she gave her own wolfish grin.
"You are such a show off. Typical of a Fire Lord trying to overcompensate." He threw his head back in laughter. Their audience seemed to disappear as they circled each other, literal sparks started to fly.
"Are you ready waterbender?"
"I was born ready." And with that two circles of water and fire appeared.
The sync that they had during the final months of the war, the ability to sense each other's movement hadn't disappeared. It only seemed to have become stronger. Even with Zuko trying to demonstrate the waterbending inspired moves with his opposite fire, Katara could sense what he wanted to do. Unlike Aang's jumps and twists, they both sparred in a grounded sense. With Zuko's calming spirits also led to his overall style had become more fluid, thoughtful, more like Katara's. Like Yin and Yang, they pushed and pulled, shifting from offensive to defensive with every new move. From firing icicles and fire balls to exchanging a circle of their element surrounding them, to two separate whips, battling in the air. They couldn't hear the enthusiastic shouts from the crowd. They focused on themselves, like no one else mattered.
Push and pull. Attack and defend. Direct and redirect. Ying and Yang.
The sun had set completely and the moon started to rise in the sky. Katara could feel its power emanating from her core. She couldn't help the grin rising to her face. There was an opening and she took it. With the same swiftness of her element she lowered herself to the cobbled stone and swept Zuko off his feet in one smooth water knick. He was able to break his fall with some hot flames, but nonetheless defeated.
Katara ignored the happy cheering behind her and ran to him.
"Are you okay Zuko?" He looked up at her grinning. She stretched out her hand and he gratefully allowed her to pull him back up.
"I am fine. What a great move! Great fight Katara." He shone with pride and she savoured her own satisfied feelings.
"Same to you. We should do this more often."
"Definitely." Before he could say anything more, they were joined by Aykhana who brought them their coats and towels.
"What a show, absolutely mesmerising to see. The adaption you both showed, classic waterbending moves. We could learn a lot from it." Katara beamed at her.
"We would be honoured to teach you and students some more."
"If you are planning to visit us regularly I would be happy to set something up more permanently. But we can discuss that later. Dinner is ready to be served. I hope you are hungry?"
Zuko hadn't taken his eyes of Katara and gave her a final grin.
"I am absolutely starving."
Heavily blushing, Katara followed Aykhana and the rest of the guests inside.