Disclaimer: Avatar the Last Airbender copyright Dante Dimartino, Brian Konietzko and Nickelodeon Studios.


They reminded her of Gran-Gran. Old and stern, they were merciless with their lessons and limited in their praise. In them she saw bits of Azula. She couldn't help wonder how much they'd shaped the princess, and how much she'd shaped them.

"Again."

Katara recited the flower's meanings as Li, or maybe it was Lo – she couldn't tell, held each one up.

"Good. Very impressive Fire Lord."

"You've learned quickly but the true test will come tomorrow. We'll see if you're ready then."

"Ready for what? What's tomorrow?" Katara pressed, eyeing the women suspiciously.

"Why, the Fire Festival of course!"