Here you all go, chapter 25. Just so you know, there is one more chapter before this is over, so no one think this as the end.

Black was definitely not her color. It was a dark, dreary color that made her look much older than she really was. It made her skin look an awful shade of brown and her hair look like mud. Her eyes dimmed and always looked a shade darker.

But that day, Katara wore black.

Her gown was black, her jewelry, her shoes and even her undergarments. Everything that she had on was the color of morning.

As she stood and watched the funeral take place, she cried underneath the veil that was attached to her headdress. It covered her face and the rest of her hair that she had let down partway. Nira commented that she looked beautiful that day, with her eyes lined and lips painted, but that didn't stop the tears that fell down her face.

They were silent tears, for she no longer could sob. She didn't have the energy. Besides, Aang hated to see her cry. She'd look nice for him. Even if he couldn't see her then – or ever again.

In her hands she held a handkerchief and as the tears stained with the black from her makeup fell down her face, she wiped them away. Because at her best friend's funeral, she had to look nice.

Again, they were in the main hall, the place where Aang had said his last few words. This time it was different, dressed with hints of black and tan – to honor the death of the very last Air Bender. No longer was there a large fire between the stands, but a table with a casket that was open to show her friend.

He looked to be asleep and that was all. But she knew that he wasn't.

That was what filled her with sorrow. He was gone – all for her. He'd come to rescue her, gathered all their friends and resources, while she lived in luxury and laughter. Aang had fallen right into her father-in-law's trap and what was worse, she couldn't do anything to help him. All he did was for her and what did she do? She was having fun.

The arena had been lowered into the floor for the time being - a handy trick that was invented a while ago - and the very important people in her friend's life were there.

Sokka stood next to her, clothed in black as well. Suki and Rinoka were dressed in nice gowns as well, all black and wearing veils. Haru was quiet on the side and so were all the rest of the people that they had met throughout the long journey they had. Zula was with her as well.

Bumi, the older king from Omashu, had even come, showing his respect by not making any mischief. The fire master Jeong Jeong had even dared coming back to the Fire nations to show respect to his student, as did Master Pakku. The Mechainst came all the way with his son Teo. Aunt Wu was there with Meng, looking sad, but knowing. Even Momo and Appa were there, looking dreadfully sad at their master's death.

They all came for Aang.

The only one that she had requested come for her was her grandmother. Well, she was her brother's grandmother anyway. Still, she had always known her as her own. The older woman was the only one to sit down, as the person in charge said a few words.

But the person that was the most important to her was the one standing next to her. Zuko looked at her with understanding. Never really knowing Aang as a friend, he didn't feel much sorrow. Still, he was there for her.

He saw the look on her face, the tears in her eyes. He felt what she was. During the entire thing, he reached down and clasped her hand with his, linking his fingers with hers. She smiled at the gesture and at him through her tears and she rested her head on his shoulder.

The final words were spoken and the casket closed. She'd already said her goodbyes – seeing him again would cause her more pain.

Then, a few people went to carry the coffin to the ship where they'd take his body to the Southern Air temple, where he could rest in peace.

One of them was Sokka, another was Haru. One by one, younger males helped to carry it. When there was only one more spot left, Zuko let go of her hand and went to help.

It came as a shock to everyone; even she was shocked. But he picked up the coffin and put it on his shoulder like the rest of them. As they walked out the front entrance, everyone followed. Zula, Suki and Nira stayed with her as they did.

The casket was placed in a carriage and Zuko sent one of his most trusted servants with it. When it disappeared into the distance, Katara finally took up the energy and ran back inside.

Nira started after her, but Sokka stopped her. "Wait," he said.

The servant paused and turned. "Yes my lord?"

"I think she really wants to be alone," he said. "I just think it's best."

She nodded. "You are her brother," she replied. "You have known her longer than I."

"I think we should all just head inside," Rinoka stated, looking to Momo who was in her arms. "This loss is very great to us all."

The group went inside, but on the way to his room, Sokka was stopped by his brother-in-law. He turned to face Zuko, but didn't give him the usual attitude.

"Listen," the Fire prince started. "I know you don't like it that I'm married to your sister."

He laughed and crossed his arms. "What gave you that impression?"

Zuko gave him a look. "Instinct," he replied with a raised eyebrow. "But know this; I care for Katara very much. Should something happen to her, I don't know what I'd do. She's hurting now and I don't know how to help her. Her grief is...killing me."

Sokka softened his gaze and listened more closely. Finally Zuko looked him in the eye. "I don't like seeing her like this. Her smile is very precious to see and I'm afraid that we won't be able to for a while. I'm asking you for help. You know her better than anyone, because you two are related by blood. Tell me, what can I do to make her feel better?"

The water tribe male looked at him carefully, reading his eyes. "I was wrong about you," he said. "You'll take very good care of her."

He nodded. "Thank you."

"Katara is never sad for very long, but she needs someone to talk to – to get out her feelings," he confessed. "She doesn't let them out to just anyone. Usually our mother would pry things out of her ...but she's not even here."

He bit his lip. "Have Gran Gran talk to her," he said, looking up confidently. "You'll get through to her then."

"Thank you," he said.

Zuko bowed slightly and turned to leave, but Sokka stopped him. "Hey, just to warn you," he said. Zuko turned. "She's really rash when she's mad, so look out."

The prince almost smiled. "I will."

Then he turned and left.