Chapter 2:

Involuntary Helper

Sokka, Aang, and Katara landed on the west of the town's harbor unaware of the fire nation ship that had just come in on the opposite side. Since none of them was aware of Zuko's presence in the town, they didn't see any danger in splitting up for a while. Aang wanted to get Appa groomed, Katara just wanted some alone time without the constant company of two boys, and Sokka wanted to get something to eat.

Katara walked around exploring all the unique items that the town had to offer. She took no notice in the presence that had been following her around for a while now. She simply continued her sightseeing without the slightest idea of the danger she was in.


Zuko had spotted her walking around by herself. The girl was completely oblivious of his presence. She had walked right by him, her arm touching his for a mere second, and didn't even recognize him. Little waterbender, you have no idea how easy you've just made my hunt. He followed her around a while longer. He figured he would strike when the time was right. In the meantime, he was amused with how she found every little thing fascinating. Her face would light up for the simplest reasons.

He watched as the shopkeeper went up to her and asked if she wanted to buy anything. She shook her head no and was about to ho when he heard himself say, "She'll take that." Somehow, Zuko found himself standing behind Katara and paying for the necklace that she had been fondly admiring. Funny, he didn't even remember walking up to her.


Katara turned in surprise only to come face to face with fire nation prince, Zuko. He paid for the necklace and moved to put it around her neck. Her first instinct was to run away to warn Aang, but a few well chosen words from Zuko quickly got rid of that thought.

"Now, now. You don't want to cause a scene, do you?" he whispered in her ear. He was so close to her that she could practically feel his warm breath on her neck. He took her hand and led her through the crowded streets. She had gone willingly until she realized where he was taking her. Half way through she started to try to pull away, but his grip on her was too strong.

"Let me go!" she shouted refusing to go down without a fight. He pulled her closer to him until they were mere inches apart. He had an ugly smirk on his face and she had the urge to slap it off


"I can't let you go my dear. You are my ticket to the avatar and there is no way I'm giving up this chance." He started walking toward the ship again, dragging a stubborn Katara along with him. By the time they reached the ship, they were both panting for breath. She because of the struggling and he because of the effort he put into pulling her.

"Uncle! Uncle!"

Iroh came running as soon as he heard Zuko calling for him, "Yes Prince Zuko?" He caught sight of Katara, who was hiding behind Zuko, and couldn't help the curiosity, "And who is this lovely young lady?" he asked turning his gaze to Zuko.

Zuko looked at Katara and smiled, "This is lovely young lady will be assisting in the capture of the avatar. A sort of, involuntary helper if you please. Now, tell some men to locate the avatar and tell him to come to the ship." He grabbed Katara's chin to make her meet his eyes, "I'm certain he won't refuse seeing as I hold something... Of extreme importance in my possession." He smirked as Katara glared daggers at him. They were took caught up in their staring competition to notice the look Iroh gave them before going to inform the men of their new task.

Zuko is evil! That's why I love him. That and the fact that he's a prince (meaning he's probably filthy rich) and that he's a firebender (which I think are so awesome!) Alright, enough of that. That was chapter 2 for ya'll. Don't forget to review!