Chapter 10
Control
Katara
(Yami)
Soft brisk air tap my cheeks, as my breath quickened from the nerves I could feel. the feeling was so strong it radiated from my fingertips. The beautiful night sky hosted stars that follow us throughout the garden. Zuko and I walked shoulder to shoulder, the lush garden grass snapping beneath our shoes with each step we took.
The past two weeks had been peaceful between us. The time we spent together clouded my mind and judgment.
Dare I say how sweet, kind, and caring Zuko was?
why would I want to leave?..
the demon I first met in these walls was no more. Zuko had changed somehow, and I could feel myself becoming... well, addicted to him.
It was strange how I craved him more. A need deep in my belly to be close. I wanted to feel his touch surrounding my hand, to hear his breath as we talk. Zuko's smile became infectious to me, his presence lingered with mine most evenings as we roamed the halls of the Fire Nation palace. Our characters behave like two wild children.
The aroma of his coffee capture my senses each morning we met for breakfast. Looking over at him now I even loved the way his smile looked reflecting off the moonlight above.
"Tomorrow the winter festival" Zuko spoke softly to me, effectively snapping me out of my thoughts. Playfully he bumped into me, causing my lips to part, smiling for a different reason.
"Yes I know, Sui told me a few nights ago, that you and ..Mai will be attending," I responded, less than enthusiastic with each passing word.
"I would like you to be there."
"Me?" I questioned surprised. A joyful beam of light exposes the states of happiness in my heart until I remember what Sui explained to me. "...Isn't this for the Fire Lord and Fire Lady to bring in the season, with their citizens... I would have no place there..." I concluded shaking my head side to side.
It's best I not go... Folding my arms into each other, my body became closed off to him. I don't want to go just to be hurt.
As Zuko watch Katara's eyes sadden again, he reached out to his side gently holding her small mocha-color hand in his. Zuko's long strong fingers pulled the curve framed water-bender softly embracing her. "I would like you to come." His eyes deepened with gold.
I could feel a build-up of heat inside me to this man's seductive words. The soft glow in Zuko's eyes hooked me, hypnotizing my soul.
"...I ..I... don't think I should" I whispered gulping down the build-up of wetness in my mouth.
"Mai ..would be at your side."
Not taking no for an answer Zuko closed in on me. Using his size to confine me as he inched my body against the brick wall, boarding the garden. His finger lightly caresses my cheek as every spot he touches intensifies with sensitivity.
"Zuko.." my frail voice tried to protest, my eyes looking down to the green grass. Each breath proved to be difficult after every touch, look and word from this man.
Zuko's lips lowered carefully, his eyes too tempting to watch. I could feel Zuko fixing his hand on my waist, as his lips closed the gap between us his grip growing stronger as he held me tighter.
Tenderly his lips touched mine, our body slowly entwining. The feeling between us increased, as Zuko's body temperature heated up. I could feel my breast heaving up and down against his regal attire.
Taking in another deep breath, Zuko slid his hand up, behind my head and pulled me a little closer. Releasing a soft moan, my fingers betrayed my brain as they grab his attire, clutching his clothes into a fist.
Spirits! I wanted this, I wanted my lips to touch his so bad! But for some reason, the more I wanted to lose myself in his aroma all the horrible moments that happened between us ran through my mind.
Oh Zuko, why do you make me so confused...
Katara
(Yami)
The next day
11 am
Eagerly I looked out the Royal Procession Zuko himself sent for me. The outside was deep blood red alined with gold borders and decorated with the great golden dragons. As if the guards outside weren't clear enough indication this was the royal family procession. Peeking out the glass window I notice different shapes women, men, and children, all dressed in their best for this festival.
Sitting back in the Royal Procession my eyes adjusted to the dim lighting inside, as I glanced down at my skirt. This morning took me extra time picking out my clothes. I wanted to make a distinct impression on Zuko, hoping to cause his heartbeat to thump just a second faster... to have his eyes linger on me a moment more.
Wearing a hanfu attire the sleeves were flowing long and loose, along with a skirt that floated around my closed-toe shoes. The clothing was white in color except toward the end of the sleeves and skirt which was dyed into a light blue ombré color.
Sui even suggested adding a wide solid dark blue belt that accentuated my deep curves. Eagerly Sui comb my deep brown hair into a half bun that hosted a few hanging loops as the rest of my hair hung loosely, draping over my non-exposed shoulders.
*Cheering!* Hearing the large crowd outside, I peeked out the glass window once again, noticing the density of people thickening around something ahead. Gently the Royal Procession came to a stop, within seconds the door opened and I could clearly hear the crowds cheering that surrounded me.
Outside was bright and light, the chill that was in the air last night was no more. Thousands of citizens surrounded me however their attention wasn't on me but the Podium ahead.
Towards the edges of the crowds, I could see vendors selling face masks, hair ornaments, snacks, and other festive things.
"This way" a guard spoke capturing my attention from the festivities. With one guard walking in front and another behind me, many citizens took an observation, wondering who this blue eye woman was.
Coming to the stairs behind the podium I could feel the butterflies stirring inside me.
I couldn't wait to see Zuko!..
With blushing cheeks, I anxiously climb the many stairs to the high large podium where I could see Zuko standing towards the edge. His hands moved in the air matching his words as he addressed his people.
"we welcome the newly change season, may the great dragons continue to watch over us!"
Biting my bottom lip as I looked to him, I could feel the butterflies stirring vigorously inside me. Just as I was about to rush by his side, my eyes pick up Mai standing next to him. My body froze looking at the two. I couldn't help but feel bothered by Mai who noticed my presence, the two of us making eye contact. I could feel my eye tear up, as I took a step back.
of course, I knew she'll be here… but it's difficult having to face it.
Feeling snug with my reaction Mai stepped closer to Zuko wrapping her arm around him as he continued to talk to the people.
Swallowing the saliva in my throat my eyes scanned her up and down from behind.
Mai was dressed to be Fire Lady, her neck held high wearing a dark red wrapped attire lined with gold threading. Her arms and neck dripped in fine gold jewelry, along with an exquisite gold headpiece. Quickly I felt silly trying to dress up as if I would stand out in his eyes. Mai had every superior fabric and rare stone available for her disposal, while I had to rely on Zuko's kindness for clothing, and Sui's detail eye.
Mai's fierce eyes looked to the side, smiling as she saw the discomfort in me. Feeling smug she pulled Zuko in even tighter. Unknowingly to my present Zuko allowed Mai to remain close. Even taking his hand and resting it on hers, showing his nation a strong young ruling couple.
*bump* "Oh sorry-" Stepping back without looking, I felt myself bump into someone who I first assumed to be a guard. Instead, the blood drained from my face seeing Azula's wicked smile behind her cherry color lips.
"Oh, peasant. Your still here"
"So are you" I bravely and perhaps foolish replied.
"My! my! Zuzu sure allow you free rage these days!" Azula replied somewhat impressed with Katara quick come back.
Before I could respond, I decided to bite my bottom lip. Realizing I shouldn't have spoken so careless and rudely. Lowering my head slightly I decided not to entertain her foolishness, my pride was bruised too much
"Regardless of the freedom he gave you" Azula began to gloat pointing to Katara's attire.
"he still doesn't trust you, does he? Your just a physical.. mmm how can I say this politely... attraction".
"Of course he trusts me! I came here on my own." I spoke up with a fiery tone. How dare she?!
"Ahah! He does?! Does he?.. Then why is he still making you wear this?" Pointing to the necklace on Katara's neck Azula laughed in her face, not bothering to cover her mouth.
"You know what this is?" I asked in horror.
I couldn't believe it.. they all knew what this necklace does to a bender! It wasn't a way for Zuko to claim me as he said that night! Instead, he has me looking foolish like a Tigerdillo on a fancy leash.
"Haha! Of course I do peasant! Why wouldn't we create something to suppress a bender's ability for whores? Not one soul has seen you apart from him! he doesn't trust you enough to truly free you. I honestly thought you were smarter than this."
Lifting her hand, Katara touches the sapphire stone on the necklace. The sad reality of Azula's words proved true in my memory. I could feel tears building up in my eyes and I hated it.
"Aw, how pathetic." Azula laughs at the water-bender misery.
"Listen, peasant, I know you have your simple brain filled with grand ideas. But Zuko isn't going to be with you. Look." Azula stated pointing behind me to Mai.
"He has a woman, someone who looks, walks, and speaks the part of a true Fire Lady. You should do yourself a favor and catch the ship leaving the capital in the morning. Perhaps your block of ice is best for your simple brain."
Destruct and hurt Katara looked back watching Zuko as he finished up his speech to his people. He and Mai looked so effortless, smiling at one another. The headpiece Mai wore had small golden blossoms that dangle in front of her fierce angle eyes. Zuko's skin reflected the sun's rays creating a perfect picture had there only been a painter here.
"They are perfect for each other.." I mumbled to myself.
I am so stupid... "Excuse me"
Just as Zuko started to turn around releasing hold of Mai, Katara hustled down the steps not bothering to get an answer from him.
Zuko
12 pm
"Azula. Your still here" I questioned. As I finished speaking to my people I heard the cheer behind me die down the further I got out of view.
Azula had come to today's festival, at a cost. Not that I wanted her to come to begin with. But I knew who my sister was which left me to wonder why is my sister still in the capital. And if she's still here then that means LuTen is as well.
"Of course brother, where else should I be." Azula grinned folding her arms near the staircase. Her smile had always reminded me of our mother's sadly, but the sweetness of our mother's beauty couldn't be overshadowed by Ozai's ruthlessness.
"In LuTen village" I replied sarcastically. "Why haven't the two of returned yet."
"LuTen will be leaving tonight. He said he's tired of this place."
"And you?"
"In a rush to get rid of me so soon Zuzu?" Azula grinned mockingly.
"I told you not to call me that!" I sneered.
"Fire Lord, It would be best to have your citizens see you being close with the family you have left" Mai interrupted her voice mirroring her famous one tone as she stood between the two of us.
"Whatever" I whispered to myself as I walked away from the two. I had someone more important to find and would not be interrupted by Azula's shenanigans.
Mai
"You don't need to edge him on Azula" I sneered scolding her in a low tone.
Looking over her shoulder my eyes finished scanning the podium. Thank the spirits no guards remained up here.
"Come on Mai, you really think I have time for that?" Rolling her eyes Azula looked to the side grinning.
"Only the spirits above know what you have plan." I harshly criticized in a soft low tone, holding in my composures.
"Next time move quicker!" Azula belittled snapping at me. "Until my plan executes itself Zuko must be kept away from me. We need to continue to have as little commutation as possible."
"Until when?"
"Until I have what I need. Then you'll know the next step."
Katara
(Yami)
Spirits! Why do I feel so upset?
I mean..I know she's going to be the Fire lady. I knew she would be here... I just thought with Zuko asking me to come... it'll be different.
"Hey! Katara, you made it"
Looking behind me I saw Zuko coming down the long staircase. His smile was brighter than the sun. Each strand of hair pulled up. His image was still flawless.
"No" I whispered not expecting him to hear me.
Standing next to me his intense gold eyes scanned my outfit, nodding approvingly to what he saw. As Zuko's eyes drank in every curve of Katara's sinful body she had to offer, he realized the unspoken tension between them was heavy.
Reaching out Zuko tilled my chin up forcing me to look at him, knowing my eyes never lie. As his sight narrowed in on me a tear fell catching the sun ray. "What are you crying for?"
"...you don't trust me Zuko. Do you?"
"What do you mean?" Zuko question. "Of course I trust you! Why would you ask me that? Where are you getting this from-" Stopping himself from speaking Zuko remembered asking Azula just a few minutes ago why was she and LuTen was still here.
Of course... Zuko told himself. "If LuTen said something-"
"Oh, my Fire flakes! It's not about him!" I snapped back knowing fulling well the hatred he felt towards his cousin.
But this wasn't about LuTen, it was about me. And how I felt, Azula just magnified the problem for me. The past two weeks were bliss, his kiss last night was intoxicating for me. But I see now..I really am just a toy.
"Then what is it?" Zuko asked unsurely.
"This!" Angrily Katara pointed to the necklace she still had on, her eyes meeting his with rage and tears of hurt.
Zuko slyly turned his head, awkwardly adverting his eyes as they blinked rapidly. Face to admit the truth, his instinct was to shy away.
"It's true, isn't it... Azula was right."
Stepping backward Katara looked at Zuko's eyes, wanting him to say it isn't true. Wanting him to say it was a lie. But all he could do was stand at the podium staircase entrance with his tongue twisted, unable to say a word.
1 pm
Walking amongst the citizens in the streets, I saw many vendors and shops. Many had exotic tea blends while others specialized in fabrics and Jewelry from across the world.
Every direction was the perfect image of smiling mothers with kids, elderly couples, young couples, and beautiful families. Instead of being happy like them, my heart hung heavy with sadness. I hadn't given my heart to Zuko yet I felt it ripped out by his hands.
The thought of us only last week sitting in the garden feeding the ducklings. My head resting on his shoulders as the grass green blades cushion us in comfort, made me want to release all the built-up tears I had inside.
*huff* "Ouch!" Stumbling over the sidewalk, my shoe grazed the concrete.
"oh wow" looking up to where I was. I somehow reached a beautiful temple in the middle of the capital. It was grand and had an alluring atmosphere. Entering the magnificent temple I could see hundreds of people all lined up to go into a specific room.
Peeking over many heads, I found the source of the problem. A room decorated in gold flames had a large gold dragon made for the middle of the room. I could see many came to offer a lit candles in hopes for a prosperous coming year.
Trying to distance myself from as many people as I could. I maneuver around many but the number of people was overwhelming.
"Ah! excuse me. Sorry! excuse me."
Blinded for a moment my eyes caught a quick and bright glimpse of sunlight. "Ah" Turning my head I could see a door was being closed.
Air!.. Stepping outside I was beyond surprised to find a quiet courtyard with barely anyone. Especially in the middle of the capital. Neatly groomed pebble in the walking paths lined with square patches of grass, dozens of bushes positioned that grew red roses.
Walking out into the sun-filled courtyard my fingers brushed the green bushes along the path.
I should have left by now.. instead, I stayed... like a fool.
The look in his eyes said it all. I really am something he's just going to use...
While being down a lantern went off in my brain. wait! Azula! She said a ship would be leaving in the morning. Perhaps I could disguise myself and sneak-
"Well well, long time no see". Looking over my shoulder I saw a shaded blossom tree covering a wooden bench. A man sitting down reading.
"LuTen? What are you doing here?" I asked walking over to him. He was dressed in a traditional red Tang suit, signaling his place in the royal family.
"I always admired this temple. Father liked it too. It was one of the places we visited often..before my accident."
"What accident?" I asked taking a seat next to him.
"The accident that led Zuko's father to become Fire Lord," LuTen said sitting back on the wooden bench, his eyes becoming heavy and dark looking out into nothing.
"When my father was well on his way to conquering Ba-Sing-Se I was badly wounded.
I was only 15 at the time... I should have been more careful." LuTen admitted blaming himself.
"All the doctors and healers informed my father that the chance of me living was slim. He left the earthly kingdom to be at my side for what was thought to be my final moments... Ozai took advantage of the timing and became Fire Lord instead... after losing my mother years ago my father was just grateful for my life being spared he didn't care about the throne any longer."
"..Uhm LuTen... if I could ask.. why do you and Zuko hate each other.?"
"Zuko is it?" LuTen suspiciously asked raising an eyebrow, his natural light pink lips parted in a grin.
"Uhm..the Fire Lord." I corrected myself ashamedly rubbing my arm, my head slightly looking down.
*laughing* "You can call him whatever you want, Jackass would be fine to." LuTen said out loud as the thought popped into his head.
"Zuko and I were actually close as children. However after Ozai became Fire Lord, Zuko began to blame me for everything including his mother's disappearance."
"That's horrible.. it wasn't your fault." Katara concluded.
"Truth is I never cared for the throne. After Ozai took it, a world of possibilities opened up for me. I could travel freely, be a scholar, even a farmer..I could have a quiet home in the countryside.."
Glancing over to Katara, LuTen smiled a little harder as his white teeth shined through. "with a beautiful and loving wife... And as many children, as we can create."
"I'm sure that would be..wonderful". Turning my face the other way, my cheeks heated with red blush.
"How did you end up here," LuTen asked moving closer. I could see he wanted to have an in-depth conversation with me.
Quickly I shook my head side to side, I didn't want to answer. I mean how could I? "It's not pleasant".
" I'm sure it's not that horrible," LuTen said trying to sound positive.
"The night the Avatar was killed by Azula...I had leaped into the ocean hoping to strike the airship that had followed us. I had succeeded, but the cost was me being separated from my brother and friends. I found land afterward but I was alone and scared. A Fire Nation soldier soon found me, told me grand lies about how great it would be to live with his aunt... I was so stupid."
"How old were you?" LuTen curiously asked.
"I was 14 when he found me, 15 by the time we arrive in the capital."
"Then that was you which all the maids, servants, and nobles were talking about. The girl who bewitched the Fire Lord at court with her beauty".
bewitch?... I couldn't help but let out a snort and chuckle from amusement. "Bewitched? ...Zu- er the Fire Lord knew who I was before I recognized him. We've crossed paths many times before. I highly doubt I bewitched him in any way."
Gazing at Katara with deep craving passion LuTen lips parted. "I am positive you bewitched him".
"You know," LuTen began changing the conversation noting the sudden slight bitten lip Katara display. "I had visited my father when he was in prison. He told me that you helped save his life when you heal his arm after Azula shot him."
"He did?" The image of Zuko hunched over his uncle that day in the middle of an abandoned town replayed in my mind. I had no idea Iroh was semi conscience or knew it was me.
"come" grabbing my hand LuTen pulled me up as he rapidly walk out of the courtyard, leading me inside the temple.
"Hey, let go!" I tried to protest remembering how Zuko acted the last time. "If he sees he'll have a fit!"
Unbothered by my words LuTen continued to hold my hand. I could feel his grip was soft and warm, he didn't hold on tight enough to hurt me but yet I knew I wouldn't be able to just break free from him either.
Turning around, into a door that were disguised as walls, confused me. This place is like a maze... He must know this temple well. Each turn he took was away from anyone. As we remained unseen by all.
"Excuse us" LuTen spoke to what I can only assume to be a scholar intern. He stood guard by a staircase going high into the temple above us. Looking up the spiral red staircase made me dizzy. The bold red color stood out from the tan-colored walls.
As if studying me the intern looked up and down in my direction but without question allowed us to enter.
"We really have to walk up all of these?"
"Come on" LuTen replied letting out a soft chuckle.
Finally up the steps and out of breath LuTen opened a closed door with a pump of fire into an opening. Peeks of bright sunlight beamed in showing the dusk floating in the air. Around the room, you could see what was used and what was not, as a lot of old books were covered in a layer of dust.
"Where are we?" I asked him. The room was small, almost the size of a large closet. Books lined the walls in built-in bookcases. A table in the middle held scrolls in every shade of color.
"The private study of the Fire sages. This is where all the important knowledge is held, besides the palace of course."
"Why are we here?" Wondering around the room my eyes studied the placement of all the scrolls and books.
Moving to a specific area Luten's fingers ran along the bookshelf pulling a single book out.
"This is why". Holding out a deep blue colored book to me, my eyes read the hanzi lettering.
"Southern..water-tribe.. 1st edition post-war!" Almost snatching the book from LuTen I frantically open it, flipping through the pages.
"Since the war has been over for a few years, scholars from the Fire Nation have been traveling trying to record the aftermath of life.
They were met with resistance at first.. frankly still are. But have been able to capture and record something."
I couldn't explain the gratitude I felt for this book. The few small structures of ice huts I remember leaving were no more. Instead replaced by many larger beautiful built homes. The boarder wall was large and grand holding the Southern-Water Tribe symbol high.
"I'm sorry there are not many photos-"
"These are more than enough for me". Closing the book I took it into my arm holding it close, a small tear rolling down my cheek. "Thank you so much."
Zuko
3 pm
Fuck fuck fuck!... Why couldn't I have said that wasn't the case? I don't know why I haven't removed the necklace yet. Of course, it came to mind before today but I just didn't want do it. The last two weeks have been ..well honestly wonderful. Why would I want that to change?
"Fire Lord!"
"Fire lord!"
Looking out to the citizens that address me, I waved my hand to them smiling.
As four royal servants held up my carriage, guards made sure the road was clear and secure. Dozens of performers danced in the street ahead of me. Palace ladies who were all dressed the same walked in front of my carriage, dropping flowers before the Royal Procession stepped forward.
Just smile and wave, smile and wave... I told myself as I continued waving to people. A personal guard I sent for, rushed to the right side of my carriage walking at the same pace the Royal Procession walked.
"Sire, we still haven't found her."
"Unacceptable" I scolded yet still waving, pretending to keep a happy demeanor for my citizens.
"Of course sire, I understand. We'll keep searching".
Sokka
"Dad! I haven't been able to get ahold of you since you named me chief. What is going on!" Pushing my way into my father's house, I walked in confident and uninvited.
My father home stayed the same more or less. The same metal flooring under the thick rug. Items that my mother and Katara treasured lingered around the home collecting dust. Even after Katara's death, there was still life in his home. But after Gran-Gran and Pakku passed things began to sit still and this home became cold.
"Sokka, I need to rest" Hakoda plainly said trying to stand up strong.
"Dad your hiding in here, you never leave. We don't see you at any meetings, or hunting. You just named me chief and have been avoiding me."
"Son..." Hakoda closed the door behind Sokka, his hands shaking. Moving his left foot Hakoda step out only to lose his balance almost falling.
"Dad!" Screaming in horror Sokka tried reaching out to catch his father before falling to the ground.
"First your mother, then sister, then grandmother..."
"Dad what are you talking about?"
"son, I should have told you before. I haven't felt well in a long time..., I don't think I have long left in this world.."
"What!"
"I have been sick for years.. since Katara.." hakoda couldn't finish his sentence. The reality of his daughter's death still weighing heavy on his father's heart.
"You are my only child, I shouldn't have to burden you like this... *cough* But you and Suki are the future of the southern water tribe now."
My world crumbled when my mother was killed, my heart died when I lost Katara. And now years later the Fire Nation is talking something else from me.
Katara
(Yami)
5:30 pm
"It's called Tanghulu," LuTen told me as he saw my unsure eyes looking over the clear-coated fruit on a wooden stick. Outside in the open, we stopped at a vendor who sold clear-coated pieces of fruits.
"Did they not have Tanghulu in the South Pole?"
*Hehe* "no, I grew up in ice basically. We had a greenhouse on the east side of my village. But the fruits and vegetables didn't grow in abundance, there was no way we could have done this." Parting my lips, my tongue slowly slide out of my mouth, slightly tasting the hard coating.
"Oh my! It's delicious LuTen!"
"I knew you would like it." LuTen smiled at me warmly. His soft honey eyes twinkled in my direction and I couldn't help but blush. He shared so many physical traits similar to Zuko, yet his soul was genuinely kinder.
"It's so nice being outside the palace, trying all these things! And thank you so much again for the book! I will treasure it."
"No problem, I'm sure you'll love reading the changes in your homeland."
*ding ding ding*
"LuTen what's that noise?" Looking around I could see all the citizens moving in one direction quickly.
"It's almost time to let the lanterns go."
"What lanterns?"
"We have a tradition to release lanterns at sunset. It's supposed to light the way for a good resting winter... did you want to light one with me?"
"Oh yes!"
After purchasing two red lanterns, LuTen and I made our way to the podium Zuko stood on. His eyes crossed the two of us and I could feel a judgment being passed on me. However, without question, he turned back to face his people as Mai continued standing at his side. Her corner lip smirks upwards.
"I'll light this for you"
LuTen pointed his fingers to the center of the lantern and produce a small burst of fire. Against the dimming sky, the red lanterns produced a warm glow with the Fire Nation insignia cut out. His fingers brushes against mine as he handed the item back to me.
"Be careful" LuTen warned. "I wouldn't want you to accidentally burn yourself." Still smiling at me I felt my cheeks heat up, flushed in color.
Gulping the saliva in the back of my mouth, I felt myself become nervous. The intensity his eyes produced was warm and light but still captivating. "When do we release it?"
"After the Fire Lord and acting Fire Lady".
Looking at Zuko and Mai I could feel myself wanting to choke. After them...
Quickly I felt a hollow feeling in my soul as my own eyes look at the two. Whether it was fake or real, Zuko stood next to her confidence, the both of them smiling wide seeming like the perfect young rulers.
" symbolize the end of a great harvest. We light our lanterns for good rest in the coming months." Lifting his lantern to release, Mai followed behind as Zuko letting it go to the wind.
"Our turn". LuTen's eyes sparkle looking at me. Following his lead, I let go of my lanterns allowing them to float in the air bumping into LuTen until they joined the massive bunch of others high above.
Looking above into the dimming sky, this evening quickly became one of my favorite moments in the fire nation.. until my eyes caught a glimpse of Zuko and the peering hate he produce.