A/N:

TheQuietReader23: Suki's and Mai's roles aren't really intertwined. You'll just have to make another guess as to where their place in this story it. Yes, it is weird how Aang would wing it with Toph. But ask yourself, what was he doing on that beach in the first place? Remember how I said love could blind you... I won't comfirm or deny the alibi part - after reading this chapter however, I'm sure you have an idea as to where I'm going with this. Like i said, Aang's past will be revealed in Book 2 - but I did hint at an aspect of his past in this chapter :) Hakoda did make a deal, but with whom? And why did he do it if he knew Katara wouldn't want it? What caused him to go this far? Hakoda is an important character but his role will be more prominant in Book 2, so theorize where is place in this story is as i'll trop more hints in later chapters.

I am vegito: Let me ask, is your question answered here?

XOXOXOXOXOX

Chapter 10: The Engagement Party (Part 1)

Flashing lights sparkled in contrast to the crimson and gold outlined carpet. Tables of delicious food and drinks from all nations decorated the scenery – much to Sokka's pleasure. Streaks of gold outlined the edges of the large room before running along out onto the various balconies. Spirals of red and blue hung from the walls, celebrating the union of two naturally incompatible elements as the various guests filled out – the pairing of a rather awkward Fire Lord and Master Waterbender welcoming noblemen, Kings and Queens of all size, colour and shape.

A new style of music echoed in the background – one which utilised a combination of the harmonium, the violin and some bongos – thus filling out the short moments of silence among the guests, not that there were any once everyone had arrived.

Katara eyed her betrothed carefully for a moment, wondering whether what she was doing was morally correct – it wasn't. She knew it wasn't, but this particular situation had offered her no alternative; Zuko was too stubborn and secretive to admit to anything, Aang was too charming and sly – plus secretive, Sokka seemed to be as oblivious as ever, Toph was trying her best to avoid him while drowning in liquor, Azula was walking around the Palace like she owned the place – though, she sort of did, and Mai and Ty Lee seemed to be as disconnected as ever.

Katara sighed, donning a fake smile as she greeted the final pair of guests: Councilman Quinn Red of the Northern Water Tribe and his date who happened to be one of the Kyoshi Warriors.

"Welcome Councilman," greeted Zuko as he led the Councilman and his date away after briefly introducing them to his fiancé – 'clearly he doesn't want to be around me', Katara thought to herself.

She sighed again – it was during moments like these where she truly felt her absence. It had been so long since… before she allowed her sudden remembrance to ruin ger mood after Sokka had spent essentially all day trying to cheer her up, Katara sniffed a few tears back and analysed her surroundings – searching for something to do while she awaited the eventual 'couple dance' she and Zuko would have to share after making their speech – 'yeah, that won't be awkward at all' – Katara sarcastically joked.

Despite the occasion, Katara and Zuko had avoided each other ever since their argument; essentially glancing away in nervousness and uncertainty whenever the other would steal a look. Not many of their guests noticed the awkwardness between the betrothed pair, Toph surely would've snickered and teased Katara about it later had she not been trying to drink her problems away for the entire night.

Glancing around, Katara's eyes finally landed on a rather well-fashioned, nicely dressed, dashing airbender who was conversing with who appeared to be King Keui. Katara eyed him hungrily for a moment before she was about to surrender and go back to searching for her brother or Toph, but just that moment, she noticed that King Keui had been ushered away by the Fire Lord and that Aang was now standing by himself. Though she did initially want to speak to him, Katara decided against it when her words from the night before echoed through her temple again.

"He's still the same Aang I've known. The Aang I've always known! The same Aang I've always loved!"

Katara was still confused regarding what she was to do about this particular situation she found herself in; here she had her ex-boyfriend – whom she was still in love with – enjoying the festivities of her engagement party, while she sulked in the corner, alone because her fiancé couldn't stand beside her without cringing in awkwardness. Shaking her head, Katara decided to take her leave to search for her friends, that is until she turned around and bumped into the man who was the focal point of her confusion that night.

"Oh, I'm so sorr – Aang?" Katara's apologetic smile faded as the airbender smirked at her.

"Enjoying the party so far?" He asked, quirking his eyebrows in a suggestive manner as he had noticed her eyeing him hungrily for a moment beforehand.

Noticing his teasing tone, Katara huffed in annoyance as she was in no mood to play games with him, "I'm supposed to be asking you that. I invited you."

"And I told you many years ago," Aang began, his tone and facial expression becoming sombre as she intently listened, "I'm satisfied as long as you're happy." He finished with a smile, thus melting some of her defences with ease yet again as she softly smiled back without refute. "So, I'll ask again, are you enjoying yourself?"

Katara wanted to answer truthfully, to relay all her problems, confusion and thoughts regarding the airbender onto him as she knew he'd have a simple solution for her, and on the rare occasion he didn't, he'd always know what to say to reassure her to the fullest capacity. Katara wanted more than anything to confide in him again, to speak to him without holding anything back, to just be with Aang. However, she couldn't, not when he was the very reason she wasn't enjoying herself – not that it was any fault of his. No, Katara only blamed him for being so thoughtful, compassionate and charming to be able to melt her away in seconds, but she didn't fault him for making her fall for him – she had gone and done that all on her own.

Still, it didn't stop her from visualising herself telling him everything; from how she felt all those years ago when they broke up, to a few days ago when she realised she was still in love with him. She could almost see his face brightening upon registering her words, the wide smile tugging his lips disappearing when he would lean down and capture her lips, kissing her passionately while her arms snaked around his neck, pulling him closer as the various guests gasped and gossiped in shock. She imagined how it would feel to be held in his arms again, those strong, massive yet comforting arms wrapping around her as they laid together, sheltering her in their own world. She smiled absentmindedly as she stared into his stormy grey clouds, leaning in without noticing as the onlookers stared at her wide eyed.

"Katara?" Aang shook her away from her dream-like-state as he placed a comforting hand on her naked shoulder. She shuddered pleasantly, the warmth of him radiating onto her, making her want to push him away yet having her need him to be closer. It was in an attempt to help calm her down, but it had the opposite effect as she felt her heartbeat quickening when the warmth of his touch lingered and spread. "I was just saying that you've done a great job with the decorations. The whole Palace looks amazing."

"Oh," Katara blushed and glanced away in embarrassment, thinking that Aang had probably noticed her gawking at him dreamily but chose not to mention it as a display of mercy. "I guess I just drifted off into some sort of daydream."

Aang smirked and Katara's eyes grew wide in fear – maybe he was going against showing mercy this time. "What was your dream about?"

Katara cringed as a certain memory came rushing to her – one during the war – and before she knew it, she had spat out the same excuse she knew Aang would immediately catch on to.

"Ughh… living underwater?" She reluctantly answered.

Aang's smirk transformed into a wide grin – 'Yeah, he knows' – Katara thought to herself.

"Ever the waterbender. Though… it does sound neat."

For a brief moment, their eyes met, challenging the other, until they broke into short fits of laughter and giggles. Through her amusement, Katara was grateful that Aang no longer took these things so seriously and could be casual and playful. Though, she guessed that he wouldn't be so casual if they were together as he was much more protective - and dare she say – possessive of her when they were dating. However, she couldn't say she minded it; watching the Avatar: the most powerful, respected and feared bender in the world, practically drooling over you and tugging you a little tighter and holding you a little closer whenever someone from your tribe made a move on you, was immensely endearing… and a huge ego-booster. Not that she'd ever admit it.

As their giggles subsided, Katara was going to ask Aang what he thought of the party so far, but they were interrupted by the one person Katara felt she'd rather not deal with for the night.

"Cool party," Azula stated, bored as she walked up to the pair. "Though, it'd be more fun if you didn't invite the entire world and crowd them all into one room."

Instantly, Katara's smile fell, replaced with a frown as she glared at Azula, opening her mouth to retort but Aang spoke up before she could.

"It's a wonderful occasion Princess," Aang cheered – Katara furrowed her eyebrows; she didn't like the way Aang called her 'Princess'. "The Fire Lord is engaged to a beautiful and accomplished women – there's no need to critique such a lovely union."

Her eyes narrowed ever slightly; though she understood that Aang would want the best for her and would be happy for her no matter who she chose – even though it was him – she couldn't help but notice a certain disparity within his usual genuineness. As Katara pondered over it, she wondered how Aang truly felt about her; the looks, the occasional subtle flirting, the teasing, the intimate hugging… was he as genuine as he painted himself to be? Was he truly happy for her, or did he wish he could have her back?

"You seem rather cheery," Azula remarked, folding her arms across her chest as she smirked, "especially for someone who's ex-girlfriend is celebrating her engagement to another man."

"Lay off, Azula." Katara barked, but Aang calmed her down by staring into her eyes and offering her that sweet smile of his.

"I just want what's best for her," Aang whispered so that only the three of them could hear, his eyes not leaving Katara's when he spoke.

Katara's worries and suspicions melted for the time being as her heart fluttered. 'There he is' – she thought to herself. That was the Aang she remembered, the Aang she loved. Not a hint of uncertainty or disparity within his statement; he wanted the best for her, and she had never doubted it.

"Alright," Azula spoke, acting disgusted as she fake-gagged, "This is getting too mushy and sappy for me. Avatar – ". She drew both Aang and Katara's attention to her as she ordered, "I need to have a word with her," the firebender motioned towards Katara before waving him off, "go and chat with some other stuck-up noblemen why don't you."

As Katara was about to object, hating the idea of being left alone in the presence of Azula as she feared she might lose her temper, Aang smiled, and fake bowed as he nodded and turned to leave. Yet, before he could, Azula cleared her throat and held out the back of her hand, "Have you forgotten how to treat a Princess?" She asked, smiling while raising her eyebrows, "You're supposed to kiss my hand, Avatar."

Katara seethed while Aang turned back around and wondered what Azula's goal was. He had made it clear to her that she was not to do anything out of the ordinary, yet here she was, attempting to make – what Aang could only guess was Katara jealous as she smiled at the waterbended with no shame. Still, he decided to act nonchalantly as he stepped up towards her.

"My apologies," the Avatar stated as he leaned down and brought her milky hand to his lips. As he straightened up, he gave Azula a knowing look before taking his leave, conveying to her that she wouldn't see tomorrow if she pulled more unnecessary stunts.

"What do you want Azula?" Katara instantly bit, not wanting to put up a façade anymore for propriety.

Though she was somewhat taken back by Katara's insistence on getting straight to the point, Azula sighed as she knew what she had to do.

"I…" Azula hesitated, she knew this was a requirement and completely necessary if she was to gain the waterbender's trust, but it was difficult, nonetheless. "I wanted to apologise." Azula gritted out, hating every syllable that rolled off her tongue while she attempted to fake-frown in fake-thoughtfulness.

Katara, caught off guard, glared at the firebending princess while she tried to explain herself, "I know you're not fond of me. And I know I've hurt you and caused you many problems… but I'm trying to be better. And –"

Before she could continue, Azula was cut off by an irate and doubtful Katara, "If you're trying to be better, then why did you go around the entire Palace, whispering the 'details' regarding Zuko and I's fight?"

Azula sighed in fake defeat as she twiddled her thumbs; if this was to work, she'd have to pull it off masterfully, and that included using body language to express her fake-regret and nervousness.

"That was the 'old' me coming out for a walk," Azula sadly smiled, hoping to convey how difficult it was to admit this to Katara – though, in a sense, it kind of was because Azula hated being vulnerable around people, even if it may be an act. "Everyone says I've made tremendous progress with my recovery, but every now and again, I fall back into old habits. Yesterday was one example; I wanted to be supportive of you and my brother, and I thought I could handle it, but once I saw you, I was reminded of my defeat and humiliation all those years ago. And I… well… you know what happened."

After registering her admission, Katara's glare slightly softened, and her hostile posture relaxed as she wondered whether Azula was being genuine or not. Though Katara was great at reading Aang – mostly because she had spent so much time with him – she wasn't that great at reading others; hence Jet, Zuko and Hama. Still, some part of her could relate to Azula; it was no secret that Katara was a proud and competitive individual, and knowing just how much her nature could affect her psyche, Katara understood how a defeat at the hands of a 'low-life peasant' could scar at Azula. Even though she didn't agree with or even appreciate Azula's thought process, she could still relate to and understand it.

Azula too understood that – its precisely why she said it – or, its why Aang recommended it.

"I know that you can't forgive me for all I've done over one simple apology and explanation," Azula stated in fake-nervousness – roping Katara in as the waterbender's face softened even further, "but I was hoping we could at least be friends. Seeing as how we'll be sisters in law soon."

Azula didn't think they would be, she'd rather kill herself than be related to her, but she had to say it. And Katara reluctantly agreed, nodding as she sighed and glanced away.

"Have you talked to him yet?" Azula asked after a moment of silence, determined to find a way to slip away for a while so she could proceed with the plan.

Immediately, Katara knew who she was speaking of, "No," she stated, frowning. "We've been avoiding each other all day and now… we can't even look at each other without looking away cringing." She groaned, wondering why she was opening up to Azula of all people but unable to stop herself either way, 'well, she is a good listener at least' – Katara remarked. "Its just so awkward."

"He assures me that what you said was in the heat of the moment and that you didn't mean it," Azula spoke up as Katara listened intently, "but I can see it in his eyes. He fears that your feelings for the Avatar are real, and he doesn't want to confront you because he doesn't want his question to be answered."

Katara groaned again, noticing the beginning of a mild headache as she looked towards the firebender beside her. "What should I do?" She asked.

Azula smirked, 'this I can work with' – she cheered internally, finally recognising an opening she could capitalise on. "Well, I've never been in this situation before so I can't guarantee that my advice will be helpful," Azula began carefully, intending to reel the waterbender in cautiously as she couldn't allow Katara to question her intentions for even a second. "But what I can do… is go over to that table, grab two glasses and a bottle of Fireball whiskey, bring them over, and we can gulp down on liquor together while gossiping about these stuck up noblemen."

Katara bit her lip as she hesitated, she wasn't one to gossip but something about the occasion got to her, and for once she wanted to forget about her worries and enjoy herself, even if that time was spent with this 'new' Azula – whom she was quite curious about regardless.

"Okay," Katara nodded as Azula smiled in return, ecstatic that everything was going according to plan.

"Great," Azula cheered before turning around and heading towards the booze. "I'll be right back."

Katara eyed Azula carefully for a moment before she glanced away and caught sight of Toph, Mai, Ty Lee and Aang conversing in a corner – Toph downing another bottle, Mai looking as bored as always, and Ty Lee drooling over Aang who was locked in a conversation with her. She felt envious for a moment as she stared at them, wondering if Aang noticed how girls at the party – namely Ty Lee – were ogling at him and whether he was enabling them by acting as if he was as oblivious as his 13-year-old self.

While doing so, Katara missed the sight of a grinning Azula retrieving a vile of liquid from her Royal robes – mixing it in with Katara's glass of whiskey as she approached her prey.

"The party is truly magnificent Lady Ursa," Aang smiled at the grinning lady as she decided to take her leave.

"I'm glad you're enjoying it." She cheered over her shoulder as strode towards her son and Iroh, "You kids have fun! And find me if you need anything!"

Both Mai and Toph gave each other a sideways glance before Toph chuckled and pointed at the airbender guiltily, "You know, if you wanted to flirt with her more, you could've offered to walk with her."

"I wasn't flirting with her, Toph."

"Oh please," Mai joined in – she was rather bored with the expensive décor and propriety everyone was consumed with, so when Toph found a way to lighten her mood, Mai didn't mind using the Avatar for her own amusement – she didn't think he'd mind, and he was rather forgiving anyways. "You were all over her; complimenting her dress, make-up… its obvious you have the hots for her."

Surprised, Aang eyed Mai in amusement, truly dumbfounded that she'd join in on teasing him despite barely knowing him, though he didn't mind – Toph just grinned at the gloomy girl as she spoke up.

"You said it Gloomy."

"All I said," began Aang as he rubbed his temple, "was 'you look lovely tonight, Lady Ursa'. That's it."

"Yeah, but it's the way you said it," remarked Toph as she downed another glass of Fireball whiskey. "With conviction, and substance… and some flirt."

Ty Lee's face fell, and she frowned at the notion of Aang flirting with Lady Ursa – Mai had noticed and despite knowing that Toph and her were only harmlessly teasing the airbender, she still felt regretful that Aang didn't seem as infatuated with Ty Lee as the Kyoshi Warrior had hoped.

"Maybe all that alcohols' creating disparities within your renowned senses Miss Beifong," Aang retorted, to which Toph responded to by punching him in the shoulder rather roughly.

"First off," Toph's closed knuckle allowed her index finger to pop out, pointing at Aang, "don't ever call me 'Miss Beifong' again, and two," she punched him again, "my senses are in immaculate condition. This alcohol's got nothing on me –" just as she declared that, she lost her footing almost fell on her face but Aang saw it coming and caught her.

When Aang, Ty Lee and even Mai snickered, Toph groaned in annoyance before chuckling herself. That is until a rather concerned Water Tribe warrior strode over to them and made his presence known.

"Aang, ladies," he nodded towards them before he turned his attention to Toph. "Are you alright, Toph?"

Toph attempted to control her breathing and contain her dread and guilt as she searched for a way to escape the party she now considered 'Vaatu's personal pit'.

"I – I'm fine, w-why wouldn't I – I be?" She chided herself for allowing her nervousness to contradict her statement so perfectly.

Sokka's concern only grew, "Well, you're clearly not." Worried, the Southern man stepped forward and closed in on Toph. "Here, come with me – "

Sokka attempted to take her hand, but she yanked it away as she yelled, "No! I'm fine! Just leave me alone!"

The Southern Warrior's worry grew while Aang surveyed the situation; Toph's sudden outburst had caught the attention of some guests, but they soon returned to their conversations. In the distance, he noticed that Azula and Katara were talking and laughing about something while holding a glass of Fireball in their hands – Katara's was almost empty, and she seemed a little out of it.

He smiled before turning his attention back to the situation at hand.

"Toph, look… I just want to talk," Sokka pleaded, but Toph was having none of it.

"Well, I don't want to talk." When she noticed that he was going to mention something else, Toph cut him off before he had the chance – using a lame excuse that she hoped would work. "I'm tired, and annoyed… I'm going back to my room."

"I'll escort you," Sokka suggested.

Toph was about to shoot him down but Aang intervened, 'this is going better than I expected' – Aang thought to himself as he placed a hand on Toph's shoulder. "Toph, you're clearly intoxicated; you can't speak a full sentence without slurring and you can't even find proper footing. Let Sokka escort you. I know you can take care of yourself – " Aang added, cutting Toph off as he knew she'd reply using that same reasoning she'd always use. "We don't doubt that. But we'd all be less worried if you let Sokka take you to your room. Please."

The earthbender was about to refute, but she sighed and gave up soon after, taking Sokka's hand and allowing him to lead the way. Though she did want to enjoy herself, she couldn't lie and say that she was in the best of moods – Sokka's appearance only worsened it because despite her 'earthbender, never back down nature', she still wasn't ready to confront him. So, instead of arguing for hours which would only land her in the same position she was in now, walking down the hall and into a separate building which was where the guests' sleeping quarters were – she thought it better to just give in; let him lead her, and then kick him out later. It would save her a headache – plus, due to the alcohol, she was rather tired.

Awkward silence befell upon them as they neared the separate building, both of them knew what needed to be said, but neither one of them wanted to go down that road again.

As Sokka opened the door and Toph fell on her bed, he tucked her in and removed a few strands of the dark hair obscuring her beauty as she noticeably blushed. Although he knew this probably wasn't the right time, he still couldn't help himself as he sighed and glanced away before speaking.

"You know I – " he began, unsure of what to say – it seemed a lot easier in his head now that he was actually in the situation.

"Don't Snoozles," Toph's voice was low – barely a whisper, and it croaked as a single tear threatened to escape her glassy eye.

Sokka could only grimace at her tone; she seemed broken, almost as if she blamed herself – he couldn't allow that. "This isn't – I didn't – You know I never…" he trailed off – the words were all piling on the tip of his tongue, but he couldn't find the proper way to express them.

Sokka's reluctance and difficulty in acknowledging the tension and disparity between them only worsened Toph's mood and emotional state. "There's nothing to say, Snoozles…" Toph lied, "It happened and… we just have to – we need to for– "

Toph cut herself off, unable to claim what she was about to as it would eat at her the moment the words left her mouth. Sokka noticed and smiled sadly.

"We still need to talk," he began carefully as his face softened, "but I can see you're tired and somewhat unwell," – she was – "so, we'll talk later."

Even though Toph would rather forget about it and not confront him at all, thus adopting Aang's airbender tendencies, she knew she couldn't really fight him on this – if he really wanted to get her to open up, he'd find a way… he always did.

"Do you need anything before I leave?"

Toph nodded weakly, "A glass of water perhaps."

Sokka smiled as he too nodded and left the room, "I'll be right back."

Toph sighed as she sunk deeper into the bed, wishing it would just swallow her whole so she wouldn't have to deal with the headache of a 'conversation' her and Sokka were due to have – plus, she knew she was going to have a killer headache tomorrow morning.

"Woah, woah – you okay there?" Azula asked in fake worry as Katara stumbled a few steps.

"Y-you knooooowww… you're realllllyyyyy pretttttyyyyy," Katara slurred out, tripping on herself and catching the attention of the guests around her as the airbender approached them. "I think Aang l-liiiiikes you. I bet that Aaaaaaannnnnggggg would sleep wiiith y-you if youuuuu got himmmm aloonnnne."

Azula tried to contain a chuckle and a blush as the Avatar neared them. So far, the plan had worked brilliantly, and now, she was ready to have some real fun.

"Katara, are you alright?" Aang asked, somewhat worried despite already knowing that she was just highly intoxicated.

"Aang? Wow, you're realllllyyyy hooootttt!" Katara almost shouted out as Azula snickered behind him while he surveyed the room alarmed – worried that maybe they were drawing too much attention to themselves. "All theeeese new muscles aaaaaaaannnnddd the haiiiirrr, the stylllleeee… are youuuu trying toooooo win meeeee back?"

Grimacing and not needing any further reason to slip away, Aang nodded towards Azula, indicating that the next phase was in play. She smiled and nodded back as she took her leave. When Katara resumed her monologue regarding how 'hot' he was, he turned back to the waterbender who was practically clinging onto him to stay on her feet.

Among the crowd, he heard murmurs of 'Look at that, she's all over him', and 'Wonder how the Fire Lord feels about this', and 'He's enjoying this,' – but he paid them no mind. His only concern in that moment was the Water Tribe beauty in his arms.

"C'mon, let's get you out of here," Aang stated as he led Katara away from the crowd while she continued clinging onto him – neither of them noticing a certain firebender's heated gaze following them in fear, anger and jealousy – though, Aang figured he'd be watching.

In fact, he was counting on it.

As they walked down the corridor, and exited the building, Katara continued moaning and groaning while trying to get closer to Aang's warmth. Eventually, he just sighed as he grew tired of it and in one swift motion, he took her in his arms and carried her over – bridal style – to her room in a separate building; the same one Toph and Sokka had entered a few moments ago. While crossing the courtyard which led to the sleeping quarters, Aang was met with a concerned Sokka who approached his sister while she was mumbling incoherently.

"Is she okay?"

"She's fine," Aang answered, "just had a little too much to drink. I'll return to the party once she has settled down."

Not needing any further reassurance because he trusted the airbender, Sokka leaned over and pressed a kiss onto his sister's forehead before nodding towards Aang and taking his leave to retrieve the glass of water Toph had requested.

As Aang continued walking, he couldn't help but glance down lovingly at the gorgeous woman in his arms. She was perfect in his eyes, nothing could ever rival Katara's place in Aang's heart and he swore, that upon his death, if someone ripped open his chest, just to the side of the pumping chamber, they'd see Katara's engraved name.

"Aang…" Katara called out for him as he entered the building, thus shaking him out of his lovestruck trance.

"Yes, sweetie?" Aang slipped up, though he didn't really care in the moment, and neither did she.

Glancing at her again, Aang almost felt his knee buckle at the sight of the beautiful, sweet smile tugging at her lips – a smile reserved for him and him only.

"I l-love it w-when you call me… s-sweetie," Katara murmured sleepily as they neared the door to her room. "I m-missed you s-s-so much, sweetie."

Aang had to hold himself back from shedding a tear as he felt his knee about to buckle again. Although he understood that Katara may be like this afterwards, and even though he thought he was ready, in that moment, with her voice croaking and her smile shining through, he realised he had greatly underestimated the amount of influence she had over his emotions.

"I missed you too, sweetie," Aang replied as he opened the door to her room.

"Then w-why did y-y-you leave m-me?" Katara asked, her voice sounding more broken than ever – Aang couldn't help but allow one tear to roll down his face as he pulled back the sheets and lowered her down onto her bed.

"You were g-gone for s-so long Aang, I… you said y-you'd come b-back…"

Aang didn't answer her as he tucked her in; pulling the covers over her and intending to leave – that is, until she gripped onto his hand as tightly as her tired and sleepy state would allow. He turned back around hesitantly when she whispered his name, his heart breaking slowly when her crestfallen face came into view.

"I thought y-you loved m-m-me…"

"I do love you, Katara…" Aang breathed, crouching down so he was in eye level with her.

When Katara's half-lidded eyes latched onto the few streaks of salty tears running down his cheeks, she softly smiled and brushed a few of them away – making Aang's heart break, marvelled at the sheer amount of love and compassion she held for him while also feeling undeserving of it after everything he's done.

"I know y-you do Aang," Katara replied, smiling softly again when she noticed that Aang was attempting to stifle a sob. "I know you d-do… you – y-you came b-b-back…"

Sleep overtaking her, Katara softly mumbled an unfinished sentence as Aang leaned in and pressed a lingering kiss on her cheek before taking his leave.

"You came back… to… me…."

"Nephew, its your engagement party! Smile! Laugh! Enjoy yourself!"

'I'd enjoy myself much more if my fiancé was with me' – Zuko muttered to himself, ignoring his uncle's attempts at cheering him up.

Zuko was in a decent mood before, all things considered. However, it instantly fell at the sight of the Avatar leaving the party with his fiancé clinging onto him like a koala-puppy. The sight alone angered him and raised Zuko's anxiety, however, it was further fuelled by the murmurs originating from his guests – mumbling things like: 'Clearly she likes the Avatar', or 'She's all over him instead of her fiancé', or 'Look's like we'll have to attend the Avatar and Lady Katara's engagement party soon.'

That last one got to him – granted, there wasn't much truth behind it, but Zuko couldn't help but allow his fear and doubt to consume him. And much to the dismay of his uncle, Zuko decided he should go and check up on his fiancé… 'you know, to see if she's alright' – he excused.

Walking down the hallway that led to the sleeping quarters, ignoring the many confused looks of his guests when he left the room, Zuko was met with his brother-in-law when he turned a corner abruptly.

"Sokka, what're you doing here?" The Fire Lord asked.

"Toph wasn't feeling well so I took her to her room, and she asked for a glass of water so here I am," he replied nonchalantly.

"Oh," was all Zuko could say since he wasn't too worried about Toph – not when his own fiancé had left with the Avatar in the middle of their engagement party. "Have you seen Katara by any chance?"

Sokka raised is eyebrow before nodding towards the building a few blocks away. "Yeah," he answered, "she was with Aang, heading towards their rooms – she seemed pretty out of it actually."

"Okay, thanks," Zuko simply answered as he strode towards the distant building in haste ignoring Sokka's questions as they grew more distant and weaker while he begged and pleaded with the spirits to not allow his biggest fears to become reality once again.

"You sure took your time," Azula remarked as Aang enter his room where she was lying and waiting.

Though the room was dimly lit, upon further inspection, Azula recognised a few tear strains on the side of the airbender's cheek. That strengthened her resolve – 'clearly, he's not unbreakable', she thought.

"Let's get started," Aang stated as he shut the door behind him and planted his feet firmly on the ground, searching for the vibrations that belong to a certain firebender.

"Uhh, what are we doing exactly?" Azula asked, confused.

Aang remained silent for a while, standing beside the door as he analysed his surroundings. Surely enough, as he had hoped, he sensed Zuko's footsteps nearing his room in record time. His entire plan hinged on this night, and these next few moments would either make or break him, so they needed to be executed perfectly. Since Aang knew that Zuko was searching for Katara, who was in her own room at the end of the hall where as Aang's was down the middle, Aang understood that he needed to stop Zuko in his tracks. And Aang only knew one way to do that.

As the Fire Lord neared Aang's door, ready to walk past it, Aang turned to Azula. "Giggle and laugh," he ordered.

"What?"

"Giggle and laugh – make it sound convincing," Aang sternly demanded.

Although she was slightly confused, she still shrugged it off and tried her best to follow his orders with merit, knowing she would be punished if she disobeyed him.

Zuko huffed when he caught a glimpse of Aang's shut door – part of him wanted to bust it open to see what the airbender was up to, but the other part of him needed to reach Katara's room first as he needed to know if she was alone or not. However, just as he passed Aang's room, he halted when he heard the giggles and laughter of a sweet voice passing through the door with some difficulty.

"Ha ha ha ha ha ha…"

"Now louder," Aang ordered – Azula obliged.

"HA HA HA HA HA HA…"

His feet still planted on the ground firmly, although it was draining him, Aang continued on when he realised that he had gotten Zuko's attention as the firebender had stopped in his tracks.

While Azula kept on giggling and laughing, Aang relayed his next orders, "You're firebending outside, you take a giant leap and don't stick the landing, so you dislocate your ankle. You'll scream right?"

"What? Yes…" Azula answered, somewhat confused as to why he was going through all this trouble instead of just fucking her.

"How will you scream?" Aang whispered when he felt Zuko step closer to his door.

"Arghhh…" Azula tried, to which Aang nodded and she continued. "Ahhhh… Ohhhh… Ahhhhh… Ahhhhh!"

"Louder Azula," Aang whispered.

Zuko staggered in his position when cries of what seemed to be pleasure and pain erupted from Aang's room – though, they were muffled due to the acoustic treatment installed within the rooms months ago.

"Ahhh! Aahhhh! Ahhhh!"

Zuko grimaced upon hearing a woman's cries, but his anxiety rose when he wondered who the woman was. Instantly, his mind went to the woman who left the party with Aang in tow a few minutes ago.

Aang grabbed onto Azula's hand and led her to the wall gently, not wanting to make an unnecessary ruckus while she continued to moan and cry in fake-pleasure. As they stood beside the wall, with Azula leaning against it on her back and Aang standing in front of her, Aang leaned into her ear and whispered.

"What's my name?"

Immediately, Azula caught on as she moaned his name, "Aang!"

Noticing the firebender's spiking heartrate through his seismic sense, Aang smashed his hand against the wall directly above Azula's head as she yelled and moaned in surprise, his name falling from her lips every second.

"Aang! Aang! Ahhhh… Ohhhh… Aang!"

From outside, all Zuko heard were the cries of Aang's name falling off the lips of a woman who he feared could be his fiancé – that, and the slow banging against the wall, which he assumed they were using for support while fucking.

Bang…. Bang…. Bang…. Bang.

Aang was slow in his approach at first, but then he decided to add the final nail in the coffin as he yelled out:

"Katara!"

Zuko staggered, his heart skipping a few beats – Aang remained relentless.

"Keep screaming," Aang ordered Azula, to which she obliged, while he continued moaning Katara's name, thus derailing Zuko and lighting his emotions on fire.

Though he knew this was the riskiest manoeuvre he had made yet, Aang also knew that if executed it perfectly, it could work. Firstly, Aang understood that Zuko wouldn't be able to decipher Katara's voice apart from Azula's due to the heavy acoustic treatment he had installed in all the guest rooms. The only way Zuko would be able to determine if it was actually Katara screaming and not someone else was by walking though that door, and knowing his hot-headed nature, Aang knew it was a risk he had to take. Though, due to the several steps the Fire Lord took away from his room, Aang guessed that Zuko wouldn't discover his secret anytime soon. Secondly, due to how close Aang and Katara had been getting lately, and due to their fight last night, Aang understood that Zuko's nerves were soaked in kerosene… and that all he needed was the right timing to deliver a final blow; Zuko's mind would connect dots that didn't exist, and he'd either throw a fit or disappear from the party.

From outside, all Zuko heard were muffled cries and moans of pleasure – what wasn't muffled though and as clear as glass, were the names that were being cried out.

"Aang! Katara! Awwww Aang! Oh Katara!" Their names were being muffled together as Zuko assumed they were intertwining together as well – along with them, was the banging against the wall.

Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang! Which at first was slow and tentative, now fast and erratic.

As he stood there for several seconds, the Fire Lord shed a tear from his good eye before he ran out of the building, towards the Royal Gardens which were several yards away from the hall where the party was being held. As he ran and ran and ran… Zuko couldn't help but feel as betrayed as ever – and he wondered if this was how Aang felt all those years ago. Though, he decided not to sympathise with Aang as he was the one who had caused Zuko this pain.

'She… she cheated on me! She's fucking him! She's engaged to me but she's sleeping with him!' – Zuko screamed internally as he kept on running towards the Gardens. The monster within him wanted to kick open the door and incinerate the both of them for betraying him to such a degree, but Zuko's rational side one out for once as the truth was finally revealed to him. 'Katara loves him… not me, and she betrayed me… for him.'

Although, he was partially correct; Katara was indeed in love with the airbender, he was wrong in assuming she had betrayed him. Yet, he didn't know that, and Aang was counting on him not finding out anytime soon.

As soon as he had sensed that Zuko had ran out of the building, towards the Gardens, Aang stopped the act and walked away from Azula. Opening his bag, he took out several robes and a few other items as Azula commented from behind him.

"Well, that was fun," though, she sounded disappointed as she'd much rather actually be fucked by him than pretend to be – and after Katara's drunken admission, she was kind of hoping for it too.

Aang simply hummed absentmindedly in agreement as he stared at a picture for a while, trying to halt the several tears that were threatening to escape his eyes while Azula attempted to see what the photograph was about… or who was in it. Peeking over his shoulder, Azula made out the image of a tan skinned girl smiling gleefully with Aang beside her before he abruptly placed the photo back into his bag and glared at the firebender.

Taking a few steps away while she waited for him calm down, Azula wondered who that girl in the photograph was. Clearly, going by her tan skin, she was Water Tribe. She may well have been Katara, but Azula didn't get a chance to snapshot her face before Aang noticed her peeking over his shoulder. The mystery died in her throat however, when Aang turned back to his bag and donned on the black robes.

"So, what now?"

Grinning, Aang glanced back at the firebender as he remembered all the events that led to this; Toph was sound asleep in her room several blocks away, Katara too was asleep in her room in the same building, and Zuko was several yards away weeping in the Gardens – his plan couldn't gave gone more smoothly or perfectly.

Noticing the Avatar's grin widen, she too donned a sinister smile as she stared into his broken eyes.

The guests all wondered where the hosts: namely, Fire Lord Zuko and Lady Katara, had gone when they didn't return for several minutes. As Iroh and Ursa attempted to regain their attention, no one noticed several figures dressed in black entering the party – some though the doors, some through the windows, others through the balcony. Everything seemed normal, just another ordinary party with questionable drama – though, a party is never a party without at least of touch drama. Either way, nobody noticed anything out of the ordinary… not until gunfire echoed through the room. One of the men in black fired his weapon, aiming towards the ceiling, to gain their attention – which he now had.

Bang!

Several cries and yelps of surprise echoed through the room, but all eyes were trained on a hooded figure with a red sinister smile, black-patched eyes, a white-bleached face, red-spiked hair, and a snarling, grim voice.

"Good evening ladies and gentlemen," spoke the voice that Iroh, Mai and Ty Lee eyed cautiously while General Fang grinned in the background. "We are… tonight's entertainment… and we have one question…"

As he walked around the room, aiming his sawed-off shotgun towards the guests, Amon ignored Mai as she glared daggers at him while still maintaining her bored expression somehow as he addressed the many noblemen, Kings and Queens.

"Where… is… Quinn Red?"