Thanks for the reviews! I really appreciate hearing the feedback from you guys!

Yes, I know that I'm a terrible person for waiting this long to update, but writer's block sucks. I also started a job in the summer before school starts back up and worked for 10+ hours a day, so it was sometimes really hard to find the energy to write. I'm sorry for the wait! I hope this chapter makes up for it!

Disclaimer: I do not own Avatar the Last Airbender

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As the Avatar, he was gifted immortal power, the knowledge that was lost to history, and the wisdom of living for ten thousand years all at the wave of his hand. Yet, the names of almost all of his predecessors had been swept away by the sands of time, by the currents of life and the subsequent generations that had come to inevitably pass. They were forgotten just like his own would be in several millennia. Most likely, there will be no mention of the Great War and nobody will be able to recall that the Air Nomads were slaughtered down to a single child. None of his hardships would be known, and the fact that he was a twelve-year-old boy fighting an entire nation would be swept away by history.

Now, staring into the eyes of his former self, Aang was once again reminded that despite the incredible power that he had inherited, the Avatar's burden was incomprehensible. Whilst all of their loved ones in every lifetime were at rest in the Spirit World, and sometimes reborn countless times over, the Avatar had remained and stayed the same. After all, they were unique amongst any living creature. They were human, but immortal on the inside. They bled like benders and non-benders, but they would never know the true embrace of death. They were always living, no matter the lifetime; each life was a separate tree inside the same forest, a different thread of the same extravagant tapestry that forever weaved together endlessly. It was an existence to live but to their doom; the Avatar was always living, but always dying just to live again.

He envied everyone else, the true mortals. While he himself could die just as they could, that final moment would never be his actual last; he would continue living for eternity, reincarnated through the Four Nations for all time. If he was honest, as he aged, he resented the true mortals who he didn't love; any moment could be their last, for they were all doomed to die. Whatever they were doing, whenever they were doing it, that moment would never happen to them again; it would pass them by. The true mortals will never be more lovely than they currently were because they will never remember after their deaths; their bodies will wither into dust, and their spirits will rest in the Gardens of the Dead. Because of that, the true mortals were able to see the world's real beauty as only a true mortal could because they were destined to die a death that, eventually, they won't ever be able to remember. Aang, though, would never have that because he would experience life and death over and over again, but it would never the same; it couldn't be because deep down, he was immortal.

Avatar Boruk sat in front of him, eyes warm yet tired. "It is good to see you again, Avatar Aang."

Aang nodded his head in greeting, "Just as it is a balm to my heart to speak with one who understands."

"I can sense that there is much weighing you down, my friend." Boruk's usual booming baritone was soft, "Perhaps I can ease your struggle somewhat. Tell me about your troubles."

"I'm stuck at an impasse, and despite all of my power, there seems to be nothing that I can do to change the situation."

"You are anxious, Avatar Aang. My grandmother often said this to me when I struggled: 'If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. And if you are at peace, you are living in the present.' You must focus on the now, and distance yourself from the future." The Earth Avatar nodded his head, "You were correct, though. In spite of our great power, we cannot force the future to be what we want it to be - nor can we change human nature. We receive visions of the future if we meditate hard enough, but no matter what we do, the visions that we are gifted will come to fruition - they are inevitable."

Aang sighed, "I just… I just wish that no more new puzzle pieces were being added each day. Everything has become so convoluted, so messy now."

"You are referring to your friend, Bumi's story about 'lavabending', are you not?" Boruk raised his eyebrows in questioning and Aang nodded, wanting to hear one of his predecessors' thoughts about the ability, "It's ironic, Avatar Aang, because, to my knowledge, I was the first bender to discover the ability."

"What?" Aang breathed out, "So, it's real? Lavabending is something that I can learn - and others, too?

His past life's eyes softened, "Yes, Aang, anybody can learn it, but from my experience, most are unable to do so because of a misconception during their training."

"What misconception has kept benders from mastering lavabending?"

Boruk tilted his head, "Each of the bending arts has sub-categories. Answer me this: which of the four elements do you think that lavabending would fall under?"

Aang raised a brow, "Well, firebending, of course. It's not even a question, right?" He paused, "Wait a minute, Bumi had said that the Earthbender who murdered his son was a Lavabender. That must mean that... it falls under earthbending, then."

"Yes, well done, Aang. If you hadn't known about your friend's story, you would have assumed that it fell under firebending, yes?"

"Yeah, that was my first thought," he admitted.

"That's okay because almost everyone mistakenly believes that lavabending is a subset of firebending, but that isn't the case. As you have clearly realized, earthbending is where lavabending originates from, Aang."

"What?" Aang cried out, "But how is that possible? Even though I know that it's true, I don't understand why. How can an Earthbender manipulate what seems like fire?"

"To understand, you must understand what lava actually is - it is molten rock. That's all it is, Aang." Boruk smiled slightly, "Lavabending is simply earthbending with the addition of heating rock and utilizing it as a liquid. Molten rock is still rock, Aang. It's part of the Earth. A Lavabender is not firebending even though it might seem like it; they are bending fluid-like earth. I discovered the ability when I accidentally fell into a volcano during my firebending training as part of a duel. It was my final test to deem if I was worthy of being called a firebending Master. As you could probably imagine, everybody was shocked when I began to lavabend myself out in a swirling tornado of the substance."

"So, Firebenders cannot bend lava, then?"

"That is correct, but a Master of Fire can easily walk and swim in it. It's like Waterbenders who dare to swim in the ocean, only a volcano is an ocean of fire. That's what the misconception is: everybody, myself included for the longest time, had thought that I bent lava by using firebending on that day."

"Then why are there no Lavabenders, and why have I never heard of it?"

Boruk sighed, "During my reign, nobody save the individuals on the volcano ever believed the story. Everyone thought it was a fable, a legend of the Avatar's untold power, and I didn't necessarily correct their beliefs. I had tried to teach myself lavabending, but I wasn't able to manipulate it as I once had. Eventually, after several decades, I stopped trying and let the belief die out. It wasn't until Avatar Jinzhai, my successor, discovered the problem: I had tried to only teach myself as a Firebender. It was he who had discovered that it was actually an earthbending skill."

"Wow, so I guess that an Earthbender has the advantage in a fight, then," he concluded.

"And what do you mean by that, Avatar Aang?"

Aang raised his eyebrows, "Well, I'll explain it, then. Waterbending has the subsets of bloodbending and healing. Earthbending contains the subsets of sandbending, metalbending, and lavabending. Firebenders can master the subsets of lightning generation and combustion-bending. And, last but not least, an Airbender can utilize the abilities of true flight and soundbending."

"Soundbending?" Boruk frowned. "Also, what is combustion-bending?"

He briefly closed his eyes and sought out Gyatso's knowledge of the ability, "By using soundbending, it allows an Airbender to generate sound waves and manipulate already existing ones as they travel through the air. Sound can pass through anything, but it mostly travels through the air. The Air Nomad - his name was Tenzin, a troublesome youth who yearned to walk the sky - who discovered the ability many generations ago, realized that sound is merely air that has been vibrated and sophisticated. By using soundbending, an Airbender can perceive vibrations in the air around him, target them, and utilize it to bend the sound itself." Aang opened his eyes, staring into Boruk's impressed ones, "Sorting through the knowledge imparted upon me by Gyatso, I can sort of understand why the High Elders decreed that none should ever learn it; it's raw, untamed power. Simply put, soundbending is to airbending as lightning is to firebending."

"That is an incredible ability that you possess, Aang. There has never been another Avatar in the history of our existence who has mastered the elements in as many ways as you have. You've mastered bloodbending and healing, lightning generation, true flight and soundbending, and metalbending and sandbending. Plus, energybending!"

Aang ducked his head, "Oh, I don't know, Boruk. I'm sure that any of our past lives could have done the same if they had started their Avatar training at twelve-years-old as I was forced to. Plus, I didn't even know about lavabending and I don't know how to do combustion-bending. Oh, I almost forgot, that's a subset of firebending that allows a Firebender to channel their chi through their forehead, superheating the surrounding air and producing a beam of explosive energy capable of immense damage, both in short and long-range."

"That's also an interesting ability. Perhaps you'll learn it one day. Now, if you would like, Jinzhai was the first to fully master lavabending - able to cause four volcanoes at a time to erupt and control the spewed lava to destroy entire cities - and he could undoubtedly teach you. I don't know if he will, but summon him forward and see."

"I think that would be nice, but I'll do it later. I have more questions. Bumi mentioned a man who utilized lavabending against him. If Jinzhai had mastered the ability, then why is it unheard of? And since it is unknown, how did that man even lavabend?"

"I'm not sure, Avatar Aang. Only Jinzhai can answer those questions for you, and he might be able to shed light on the subject. Before I depart, here is a final word of advice, Aang: don't push your friends away. Life wasn't designed to be walked alone, and the future wasn't designed to be constantly ruminated upon. Don't worry so much, Aang. Focus on the now because the future depends on what you do in the present time."

"How do I do that?" Aang whispered, "I've finally let the past die because it cannot be changed. Yet the future is in my power."

"If you are worried about what could come to pass, then speak with your group of friends. You all dream of a world of peace, so create a plan to see that dream become reality. The best and only way to predict the future is to create it." Boruk smiled gently and nodded his head in an act of departure, "Stay true to who you are, Avatar Aang, and I know that you will find a way." He dispersed in a shower mist and rushed back into Aang's body, making him feel whole once again.

Aang took Boruk's words to heart and knew that it was time to finally forgive Katara, Toph, and Sokka for abandoning him. The time had come for Aang to utilize the Air Nomad's teachings about forgiveness towards his friends.

"I thought that I'd find you in here, locked in our room." Azula's soft voice reached his ears and Aang smiled, turning to smile at her, only to pause at the expression carved into her beautiful features.

She was pale, arms crossed across her bosom, fists shaking from a realization. Her golden eyes stared at him as if for the first time, lips parted in emotions. Her luscious black hair cascaded down her back in deep waves, highlighting the Air Nomad garbs that she was wearing.

Aang jumped to his feet and rushed to her, "What's wrong? What is it? Is Samir all right?" He demanded, gripping her shoulders anxiously, worriedly.

"She is being watched by my brother and Katara, so yes, Samir is fine," Azula licked her lips, eyes filled with pain. "But I'm not fine, I'm..." the words were whispered, barely audible as she trailed off.

He leaned closer, framing her face in his hands, staring into her eyes - gray versus golden! "I don't understand… Is it Ba Sing Se? Are you…?" He swallowed nervously, "Do you regret all your decisions?"

"No!" She exclaimed, tilting her face away, "Just- …can you take us to the Crystal Catacombs?" She asked so quietly that he was certain that he would have missed it if it weren't for his airbending.

Aang furrowed his brows, but when he saw the desperate, pained expression on his lover's face, he nodded gently and kissed her forehead. "Yeah, hold on," he closed his eyes and felt Azula's arms wrap around his back tightly, almost hysterically. He swiftly created a small hole in the floor that led all the way to the caverns and dropped down, winds gently whipping around their bodies. He slowly floated downward, squeezing Azula's back reassuringly, and softly landed, closing the hole. "Okay, we're here,"

Azula let go and stared across the Crystal Catacombs, golden eyes foggy with memories, "I shot you full of lightning right there." She pointed her finger weakly to her right, and Aang followed her gaze, feeling his body shudder in defense of the memory of pain. "Do you remember?" She asked in a whisper.

All of a sudden, his vision tunneled and colors whirled through his eyes before it suddenly stopped and Aang let out a shaky breath. He could see his younger self, features carved with despair and naivety. Over a hundred Dai Li agents had flooded into the caverns, joining Zuko and Azula. His gray eyes watched the boy create a small tent from the crystals, trying to enter the Avatar State. Katara was narrowly managing to fend off several of the Dai Li agents, water octopus shielding her lithe form from shards of deadly Earth.

Aang stared at the younger Azula, the beautiful, Avatar-hunting girl who had had an abusive monster for a father. He was struck by the pure apathy that gleamed in her cold, golden eyes. That was the girl who he had been fearful of, the only person who he had been warier of than Fire Lord Ozai. The girl's features were pinched with the thrill of the kill, nimble body gliding across the rocks until she was perched on a ledge, anticipation thrumming in her blood, full lips curved into a pleased smirk.

The girl who Azula had been during the Great War was not like Zuko had been despite their relation by blood. Zuko, for a long time, had hated Aang - or the idea of the Avatar - and would have had no qualms about killing him so that Ozai would finally reap praise upon his son. No. Azula had been callous, unwilling to show any emotions except amusement and a subtle arrogance that Aang had, if he was being honest with himself, found attractive. She was indifferent to the blood that her hands had been besmirched with, uncaring about all of the atrocities that she had committed in the name of her father.

Simply, she had been a machine, but that was why Azula now stood by Aang's side as his lover. The machine whom Ozai had turned her into was never the real Azula. She wasn't a killing machine like Sokka has so frequently described, but a child, a scared girl who greatly feared her father and had warded off any emotions that she would have been beaten for feeling, let alone displaying.

Aang saw the crystals surrounding the boy glow with an intense, blinding light. The Dai Li and Zuko began to back away, fear poisoning their hearts, reverberating through their limbs, but not Azula. No. Aang watched as the young Azula's arms twisted in a very familiar motion and sparks began to bloom between her fingers, crackling with the intensity of the sun itself, matching the tempo of the crystals surrounding the boy, humming in tune with the power and brilliance produced by Aang's younger self. Abruptly, a shockwave of absolute power erupted through the Crystal Catacombs in a brilliant, invisible torrent, shaking the heart of every bender.

The boy rose from the ruptured crystals, floating in the air via Kirku's power, and his eyes and arrow tattoos glowed blinding white, glaring down at the Dai Li and Zuko, whom all quivered in place, realizing that their deaths were inescapable. His younger self's mouth thinned, frowning in rage, and Aang recognized the expression on the boy's face: it was a foretelling of the inevitable cataclysm, the unholy hatred that had been cultivated for ten thousand years that was going to be unleashed in relentless waves of calamity.

Aang was, for the first time, witnessing the Avatar State from an outsider's point of view. Before, all he had had to base the experience on was the destruction around him and his own memories, but now, watching the boy, Aang fully grasped what it meant to actually face the Avatar State. That boy was no longer the goofy, fun-loving, Airbender. He was no longer Aang - he had become someone else. The boy had become thousands of years of power and strength, capable of untold amounts of death and destruction. He had become the unforgiving winter and terrible summer, the swift and terrible sword that was sharp enough to raze the world. At that moment, the younger Aang could topple entire mountains with a twitch of a finger, permanently snuff out Agni's great light, evaporate the oceans, and lay siege to every nation, slaughtering anyone who defied him.

It was humbling and terrifying.

Aang glanced at the young Azula and saw her stare up at the boy, not with fear, but with awe. Her golden eyes were wide, lips parted, but determination quickly rushed through her body. The sparks of lightning condensed together and Azula swiftly fired a bolt of lightning with deadly accuracy at the boy, lips curved into a triumphant smirk.

Aang's eyes followed the bolt and he winced as the lightning ravaged through the boy's small body. The younger Aang jerked and writhed in the air, agony carved into his face before all became silent, and the glow faded.

The boy's eyes closed in acceptance of death and he fell, plummeting to the ground like a fallen star, but out of nowhere, Katara rode forward on a wave of water, crashing through the dumbstruck Dai Li and Zuko. Then, right before the boy smashed into the stone head-first, the Waterbender barely caught him.

Aang blinked and gasped as the vision of the past ended, bringing him back to the present. He had no idea what had just happened, but he didn't focus too much on it. "Yeah, I do remember," he said, worriedly staring at Azula's shaking form.

"I didn't feel anything when I shot you," Azula turned towards him with the beginning of tears in her eyes, "I could have killed you, the most important person in my life, and I wouldn't have felt… I wouldn't have felt a thing." She whispered out the last word and Aang darted forward, pulling her into his arms tightly, shielding her from the memories. Her arms desperately wrapped around his back and her fingers curled into his shirt tightly, almost tearing the fabric, "I love you, and if I had succeeded, I wouldn't ever have had this amazing second chance that you gave me. I would still be that… monster."

"But you didn't succeed, Azula," he said gently, murmuring words of comfort into her hair. "And our union happened because of it." He had a feeling that he knew the reason behind her sudden emotional distress, "You are not that girl anymore, Azula. You are free from your father's grasp, free from his abuse." He gently gripped her chin and turned her misty, golden eyes to his, softly stroking her cheeks with his thumbs. "I am so proud of you. You could have taken the easy path and continued to work with Ozai, but you didn't. You strove to change and be better than that girl who you used to be. Through your own determination and instincts, you have risen from the ashes of who you once were into the intelligent, strikingly-attractive woman who I love. You have come such a long way since I found you on Ember Island almost a year ago, and I consider it an honor to know the real you."

Several tears spilled down Azula's cheeks and she smiled. "I would be nothing except that monster without you, without your love." She stared into his eyes and the raw emotions displayed within their depths stole Aang's breath. He knew with absolute certainty that he was the only one who she allowed to witness her vulnerability, her lowest moments.

"You know, I've had it stuck in my mind that I saved you when I found you on Ember Island."

"But you did."

"I've had it backwards, Azula. You saved me and I would be nothing without you," he admitted quietly, knowing that it was the truth. The catalyst for his change to become better had been Azula. When he had journeyed to Ember Island, the only thought in his mind was seclusion. He had been angry, and he could recognize now that the seeds for a long, dark, and bitter life had been planted in his heart. When he and Azula had slowly become accustomed to one another, they had helped each other heal, and she was why he hadn't given up hope. Two broken people had healed each other, becoming whole.

Another tear slipped past her long eyelashes and Aang caught it, smiling down at her softly. "Oh, Aang," she breathed out and her hands slowly maneuvered down, proceeding to unwind the Air Nomad sash and garbs from the top, the swelling of her ample breasts provocative and inviting.

His gray eyes darkened with fiery arousal and he felt his member twitch, much-needed blood rushing to his organ until his erection painfully strained against his trousers. "Azula… we shouldn't- not here." He said unconvincingly, "In our room- it would be…"

Azula shook her head softly, dark hair framing her face beautifully, "No, we need - …I need to make new memories in this place." She slipped out of her garments and stood before him bare. Aang growled lowly, desire running rampant in his blood. He closed his eyes briefly, trying to breathe deeply and release his lust, but when Azula touched his cheek, he knew that he was helpless to resist her.

Their eyes connected - gray versus golden! - and she reached further upward, curling her fingers around the back of his neck, drawing his lips to hers. Eagerly they kissed, Azula's lips parting, the soft, swollen flesh and moisture of her mouth igniting his arousal even further. Azula arched forward, pressing her body against his, tongue hot and heavy against his own, pulling his hands to her bare, full breasts.

Aang rumbled deeply, and pulled back, agilely stripping out of his garbs, leaving himself as bare as she was. He urgently pressed his lips to hers again, savoring the feel of her compelling, addictive, moist mouth. His erection poked her stomach and he shivered, groaning aloud when one of Azula's hand wrapped around his member, skillfully stroking his pulsing phallus.

"If you don't stop, this will be over before it even began," he warned breathlessly, staring down into her glowing, golden eyes.

She smirked, "Well, we can't have that, can we?" She abruptly let go and Aang gasped, stumbling towards her. Once he realized what she was doing, he quickly gathered his own clothes and combined them with hers on the floor to make a suitable, makeshift bed. "After you, Avatar," Azula purred and Aang complied immediately, lying on the bed, propped on his elbows.

Azula slowly straddled him, hands resting on his broad chest, teasing his member by inching her center to the tip of his erection, but at the last second, she would rise above him, smirking down at him triumphantly. She obviously enjoyed the power that she held over the most powerful being in the world, but Aang wasn't certain how much longer he could deal with her teasing.

Apparently, she saw the struggle on his face and decided to take mercy on him. Aang watched as Azula reached beneath her and grabbed his hardened member, leaking with precious fluid. She sensually twirled her thumb over the bulbous head, and then dragged the precious fluid down the shaft, moving her hand gently but firmly. Aang gasped and bucked his hips instinctively, teeth grit.

Any protests that he had died on his tongue as he watched Azula nestle his member at her entrance, achingly lowering herself onto him. Aang fought the urge to thrust into her immediately - he wanted this to last. Once she was fully sheathed down on him, she leaned forward and squeezed her abdominal muscles, sliding up his shaft, only to drop back down, releasing her muscles.

Aang groaned as white, hot pleasure threatened to make him lose control, but he refused to do so. He quickly bucked his hips into hers and a rhythm was quickly found, the two lovers' moans echoed through the Crystal Catacombs, feeding their frenzy like ravenous Dragons. Their hips rocked together in intense synchronization, the sound of wet skin slapping against each other adding to their arousal.

The Avatar couldn't handle it anymore and rolled them over, looming over Azula as he thrust into her warm, heavenly body. Her breasts jiggled and his eyes were entranced by the sweet movements. Azula gasped loudly, her moans echoing in his ears, causing him to intensify his pace, aching to hear more of those noises escape her beautiful lips.

He committed the image to memory: dark, glorious hair cascaded down her back in waves, her body rippling with indecision between tension and release, her full, luscious lips parted as moans, groans, and even screams ripped past them. Aang watched her writhe under him with utter pleasure. Her movements were free, uninhibited, careless, and he would forever see her that way. He was almost tempted to have a painting done of her like this - of her being free, but he knew that he would probably end up, in a fit of jealousy, wanting to maim the innocent painter for daring to look upon his Azula nude.

He was the Avatar, but he was still only a man, a man who was deeply in love with his lover. Looking down at her, he knew that he would do anything for her. Aang refused to allow the true Azula to slip into the shadows, to be haunted by her past sins, of her memories of the Crystal Catacombs and living underneath Ozai's thumb.

He leaned down and captured one of her hardened nipples in his mouth and gently suckled, quickly traveling to the other breast, tongue leaving a pleasurable trail.

After several moments, he released her nipple from his lips and looked down at her. Enchanting, golden eyes were half-lidded, pleasure carved into her beautiful features, and before he could react, her body shuddered, clenching around him, sending earth-shattering quakes against Aang as her orgasm tore through him.

Sheer, white-hot fire thrashed through his blood, howling in demand for release. Despite his best efforts, Aang couldn't hold on; his seed poured out of him in a blur of motion, spilling into Azula's womb without pause.

He collapsed on top of her, exhausted from the intense love-making. Her fingers gently curled through his hair, nails scratching against his scalp softly. After several moments, Aang slowly rolled over, pulling Azula into his chest, contentment flooding his heart.

"Your hair has gotten very long," she whispered, gently kissing his pectorals. "You might want to think about trimming it."

Aang smiled, threading his fingers across her bare back as her breasts were pressed against his stomach. "Is that an order?" He teased.

"No, but it is an order to only trim it if you decide to. I don't know if I could handle the sight of you being bald." She said with faux seriousness.

He frowned slightly, "I don't think that I could either." He admitted, being truthful, "It took a while, but I like having hair. It's almost like… armor, in a way. By having hair, I'm not immediately recognizable as the Avatar. I can have a semblance of a normal life."

Azula was quiet for several moments, then she quietly laughed. "Having a normal life is overrated, Aang. But if you want to keep your hair, then I will accept your decision, just as I know everyone will."

"Thank you," he breathed and kissed her gently, wondering how the Tree of Time could have possibly known that Azula would fill the void in his heart left after the genocide of the Air Nomads.

She kissed him back, lips parting for his own, her tongue gliding across Aang's own tongue and he shivered. Azula pulled back, and her eyes were serious, "I want to ask you something, and I want you to answer me honestly."

Aang's brows furrowed, but he nodded, "Of course, of course. What's on your mind?"

"After the Ba Sing Se fiasco - ala, Kuei and company's slaughter - while you were recovering at the Eastern Air Temple, Pathik conducted a tour of the Temple for Toph, Samir, and myself. He eventually led us to the library, and that's where I had spent most of my days when I wasn't taking care of Appa and visiting you."

"Really?" Aang asked in surprise, "What about the meditation circle? The airball court?"

"Those didn't hold my attention, whereas the library was most interesting. I learned much about the Air Nomad culture, and it was fascinating. The philosophy that you were raised under is a new way of living, and a part of me wishes that I knew your culture's beliefs years ago."

Aang nodded, feeling proud that his culture was worthy in the eyes of his lover, "Yeah, it's pretty special but, sadly, some of the traditions will die with me. I think that's a good thing though; sometimes the past has to die so a new beginning can arise."

"I think that, even though Air Nomad law is quite compelling, there are some changes that could be implemented. As long as the laws on marriage remain the same, I'm content with that." She smirked up at him and he froze, stricken with fear that she was angry. He had always intended to share the rules with her but had just never found the right moment.

He swallowed, throat parched, fear drowning his mind, and he tried to sound calm but he knew that he was not successful. "So, you know about the… the whole marriage rules?"

She laughed, sounding melodious, and Aang was thankful, for it seemed that she wasn't angry with him. "Oh, yes, I do." Azula snared his eyes with her captivating gaze, "It's much less formal than the Fire Nation and you skip straight to the fun part - I like it." Relief spread through him, but he had to make certain.

"So, you… understand that, in the eyes of the Air Nomads, we're actually married?" He asked hesitantly.

Azula raised a brow, "Of course, I do," she sounded insulted. "Why else do you think that I continue to wear the Air Nomad garbs?"

His jaw slightly dropped, mouth opening and closing rapidly but the words wouldn't pass his lips. He stared down at her in shock, wondering how he could have been so blessed to have found the perfect mate, in his eyes.

"I jumped at the opportunity once my Fire Nation clothes were ruined." She continued calmly, staring at him with slight amusement glimmering in her majestic golden eyes. "Even though we hadn't consummated our relationship, and thus been married in Air Nomad law, I wanted to support your nation because I loved you, and I was able to recognize that after mastering my chakras. Plus, I want to be... away from the Fire Nation - there's too much pain lingering. I need a fresh start and your nation is easily the best way to do that. Also, these garbs are the most comfortable I've ever had the pleasure of wearing. It would be a crime to dawn something else."

He kissed her hungrily and passionately, thanking her for everything. "I truly love you," he breathed out. "So, you don't mind if we're married, don't mind if we reveal that to everyone?"

"Not at all," she smirked, golden eyes gleaming in the Crystal Catacombs, "Besides, being the Wife of the Avatar and the Mother to the Air Nomads comes with some special perks."

Aang laughed loudly, form shaking in amusement, "That's true, most true. You'll be the second or third most powerful person in the world behind me and depending on how strong Ozai becomes."

"Who would have ever thought?" Azula asked rhetorically, voice becoming softer, "The younger me, the fifteen-year-old, Avatar-hunting Azula never would have thought that she would be married to the one who she had sought to hunt until the ends of the Earth - you, the Avatar. I now support Zuzu as Fire Lord and rebelled against Ozai, which was something that she never would have done. I had always believed myself to be destined for greatness, and I would have accepted nothing less. I was to have a crown, a throne, and my own nation. I was to be the most powerful person in all of the Four Nations."

Aang kissed her forehead, "Second best isn't too bad, and plus, you had just mistakenly believed that you were to have the Fire Crown and the Fire Nation. Instead, the Air Nomads future will be borne through you. You will have your own nation. Your name will echo throughout history: Azula, the savior of an entire nation, the Mother of the Air Nomads."

She nodded and closed her eyes, pausing for several seconds and Aang was content to simply hold her, knowing that she was thinking. After another minute, she finally spoke, "If I'm not mistaken, I heard Avatar Boruk's voice. What was so important that you needed to speak with him?"

"Well, I spoke with Bumi earlier," Aang began slowly, "and he revealed his life, his suffering. Even with all my power, there is nothing that I can do to alleviate his pain, something that I regret. He had told me that he encountered a Lavabender twenty years ago or so; I'm not fully certain when, but he battled one who controlled lava."

Azula stiffened, "A Lavabender? I had had no idea that a Firebender could become so powerful as to bend lava itself."

He laughed softly, "You made the same mistake that I did. Lavabending is not a subset of firebending. Rather, it is of earthbending. You see, that's why I summoned Boruk from my soul, trying to determine the history of lavabending, and if at all possible, learn it."

"Can you?" She asked curiously, gently ghosting her hands over his pectorals.

"Yes, Avatar Jinzhai, the successor of Avatar Boruk and the Fire Avatar before Avatar Roku, can teach me, but I think that I'll summon him later. My attention is being held by someone much more important."

She hummed, pleasure carved into her face at his words. "Well, it makes sense, actually. Earthbending is the least dangerous of the bending arts."

"What?"

"Think, Aang," her golden eyes latched onto his gray ones. "A Waterbender can bloodbend, bursting one's heart with a twitch of their finger if they so choose. A Firebender can raise one's internal heat, their very body temperature, causing one to die from a scalding fever. And the most dangerous of them all, in my opinion: an Airbender. You could snuff out one's life in the blink of an eye, stealing the very breath from one's lungs."

Images flashed through Aang's mind of how he killed Afiko, Kuei, the Council of Five, and the Dai Li. He nodded, "Yes, you're right. An Earthbender can't kill someone in a paralyzing, devastating attack like those who bend the other elements."

"It's the weakest of the bending arts." Azula concluded, "That's why it has more subsets of bending than the other elements; it evens out the scales, kind of."

"Just don't tell Toph that," he pointed out. "She would understandably be pissed off."

"King Bumi has probably already recognized that the Children of Earth are at more of a disadvantage, actually. He's quite intelligent and very wise, I've learned." Azula said quietly, eyes contemplating.

Aang nodded and then frowned as he remembered something from his conversation with Boruk. "Besides the basics of combustion-bending, do you know how to utilize it at all?"

"I've tried it before," she admitted quietly, "but I… I failed to accomplish it." The shame coloring her voice almost made him laugh, but he squeezed her tighter.

"Perhaps, we can learn it together. I'm sure that I could figure it out. From what I remember from our encounters with Combustion Man, it's very- "

Azula interrupted him, staring up at him in bemusement, "Who? Who is he? And what kind of name is 'Combustion Man', as you called him?"

Aang laughed, "I'm sorry, I forgot that you don't know who that is. Well, Zuko revealed to me after the Great War that Combustion Man was an assassin who had the special ability to channel his chi through his forehead, resulting in an intricate third-eye tattoo. Your brother also shared that he hired the man as a bounty hunter to kill me after Ba Sing Se all of those years ago, citing his reasons for hire as the man was willing to do anything, kill anyone for a bag of gold. I encountered him several times and he was incredibly powerful. The range to his attacks was unlike anything that I've ever seen except for your father using lightning during Sozin's Comet. Anyway, in Zuko's words, 'He was great at what he did, and he was even better at keeping secrets.'"

"Ahh." Azula hummed, understanding coloring her tone, "You speak of Fulki-Aridam. Azulon and Ozai had often utilized him for secretive missions, undoubtedly the reason that Zuzu had even heard of him, nonetheless being able to contact and hire him. The Fire Nation found out about his ability over forty years ago when he was just a child. Apparently, from what Ozai had said, when Fulki-Aridam was a young child, he was initially unable to control his combustion-bending and accidentally blew his right arm and leg off. Fire Lord Azulon, having heard of the child's special ability, then commissioned for prosthetic limbs to be built for him, ordering new ones every time the boy grew, envisioning a worthy warrior - a worthy warrior he became, indeed. Fulki-Aridam then acquired his status of infamy in a series of quick Agni Kai, amounting money, several large estates, and women. In terms of political power, although he was never seen by anyone save for the Fire Royal Family, he was on par with the Head of a Noble House in the Fire Nation."

Aang nodded, impressed at her retention to detail, "Well, I definitely think that it's a useful ability that I would like to learn, especially after having battled against it multiple times. Based on my readings on his chi years ago, a good chi flow is required and a properly calibrated focus, too."

Azula snorted, "Then with the right guidance, it will be effortless to us."

"Most likely, but that reminds me: I think that it's nigh time for your brother to master lightning generation, and I think that you should be the one to teach him. You taught me on Ember Island, and I thought that you were an excellent teacher."

Azula raised a brow, "You were an incredible student, mastering lightning generation in just one attempt - something that I'm still a little jealous of if I'm honest. But you think that I should teach Zuzu? Every time in our childhood when I had tried to show him a bending move, he would become furious and bitter."

"Well, Zuko is not that low-esteemed child any longer. He's the Fire Lord, and he has grown strong in firebending, on par with you."

"Very well, but I want two things in return."

"And what are those, exactly?"

Azula stared into his eyes intently, "I believe it would be wise for you to take up a weapon, any weapon, but I believe either a sword or archery would be your best option. Just think about it, Aang." Passion began to infuse the air and Aang realized with narrowed eyes that Azula had been contemplating this for a while. "An Airbender could easily become the greatest swordsman in the history of our recorded world - the same goes for archery! You would make Sokka, Piandao, Mai, Ty Lee, and the Yu Yan Archers look like stumbling, foolish children. When using a sword, you could sense objects and movements from the disturbances in the air while in combat!" Her eyes glowed with excitement. "Imagine yourself using a bow, Aang. Your enemies would be terrified; they would realize how dangerous an Airbender is! You could use the wind to make arrows fly faster, even changing their direction mid-flight! Also, no distance would ever be an obstacle; you could be thousands of yards above the enemy in the sky or several feet to the right of your combatant. It doesn't matter! Nobody is safe from an Airbender utilizing archery, Aang. You could turn the tide of a battle before it even started!"

Images condensed in his mind, framing Azula's logical analysis. It made a lot of sense and the only reason why he would refuse would be that of his moral high ground, but that would be selfish, though, most selfish. They were in the middle of a war that could make the Great War look pitiful in comparison; the future of both Realms was in the balance. "Yeah, you're right," he conceded after a moment, "I can see your point. It would be useful. I'll sort through Gyatso's memories to determine if Airbenders were ever archers. I'll also talk with you and Zuko later about the Yu Yan and their training. So, what's the other thing that you wanted?"

"You," she whispered sultrily, golden eyes burning with want.

"I don't know if I'm energized enough, Azula." He shrugged, faux weariness carved into his face. "I just simply… don't know, you know?"

"Well, is my husband up for another round?" She purred, fingers ghosting over his muscular chest.

He kissed her passionately, "I'm always up for a round with you." He whispered against her lips, and he made love to his wife once again.

XxXxXxXxXxX

The Avatar would never expect it, and that was the beauty of it. It was so simple, yet so utterly unpredictable. The epiphany had entered his mind during a sparring session with Zhao. He needed strong benders, ones who would be loyal to him and only him. He knew just the way to acquire that army.

Ozai stared down at Hama, watching as she breathed deeply, mastering her dark chakras. He, through much hard work, had been able to learn energybending from Vaatu. Now, he had given the knowledge of the dark chakras to Hama, hoping that she would now be able to fix him.

If she weren't able to, Ozai would take great satisfaction in brutally torturing her in the most horrid ways imaginable. He liked the idea of tearing off Hama's own arm to show her how it felt, the utter humiliation!

He then glanced at his discarded arm, his fully-healthy arm that had been decapitated by the Avatar. Every day, Hama would soak the limb in clear water, focusing on her healing power to keep the arm from succumbing to decay. Then, she would focus on his shoulder, keeping it healthy and ready for its limb to be reattached. For the past months, Ozai had become anxious for the arm to be re-fitted to his body, making him whole once again. Now, watching impatiently, angrily as Hama mastered her dark chakras, he felt a dark smirk form across his mouth.

Vaatu had revealed that Hama was about eighty-years-old, twice Ozai's own age, and yet she looked the same as Ozai himself did. He did have to admit that the Waterbender was exotic, and more frequently, with each passing day, Ozai would pleasure himself with fantasies of the olive-skinned, strange-looking but arousing woman between his legs, lips around his hardened member.

It had been far too long since he had had the release that he needed, that he so desperately sought out. Only thoughts of his nude wife and Hama had kept him from killing someone halfway valuable since his last battle with the Avatar.

When he had first escaped prison, with Vaatu and that boy's help, he had hunted down all of the Order of the White Lotus members that he could find, murdering them all without a moment's hesitation. But when he had discovered quite a few female benders, no matter their nation, Ozai brutally raped them, plowing into their moist bodies as he sought that release. Then, once he was satisfied, he would casually kill them. Even that boy had joined him several times.

Now, staring down at Hama as she meditated, he was certain that he had found a willing fuck-buddy. Even if she wasn't willing, Ozai would force her to. Ursa was too far from his reach, or else, she would be perfect.

"Piandao," Hama suddenly opened her eyes, and Ozai could feel the change. It was as obvious as a change between day and night; her chi pulsed, flowing with her full potential. "I think that now is the opportune moment to reattach your arm. With the mastery of my dark chakras, my bloodbending will be stronger than ever."

Ozai's eyes blazed to life, anticipation howling through his blood, "Do it," he commanded, power thrumming in the air. "The quicker we do this, the quicker that girl, Katara will suffer for her transgressions."

Hama seemed to blur towards him, fingers outstretched. Suddenly, the discarded arm began to float in the air, hovering under Hama's power. Ozai was impressed and followed the woman's instructions, lying on the cot, preparing himself for the agonizing pain that his body was about to be ravaged by.

Vaatu suddenly floated into the room, followed by Zhao. His ally stared down at him with dark wisps floating off its body, "The pain that will appear will be soul-crushing, but you must embrace it. Only then, will you survive." Shadows wrapped around Ozai's shoulder and the floating, decapitated arm tightly, sinking into both brutally, ripping through skin and muscle and bone. "Begin, Hama."

The Waterbender abruptly clenched her fingers and Ozai immediately, in response, bucked against the cot as the process started. He closed his eyes, trying to follow Vaatu's instructions, but the very blood in his body was fighting, rejecting the healing, and Ozai grit his teeth as the pain increased tenfold. The shadows mixed with his blood, contaminating it, darkening it with its tainted, malevolent power.

The agony was intense and overwhelming; a lesser man would have succumbed to the weakness of passing out, but the pain was good. Pain meant that he was alive, and not dead, as the Avatar had wanted him to be. He envisioned himself welcoming the agony, embracing it as if it was a long, lost lover.

Time quickly lost all meaning as he was lost in the ocean of agonized healing, trying to desperately escape from the thousands of miles that he was set adrift in the endless waves. He was tired and the call to an eternal rest was weakening his body with each passing second. The ocean was no longer tranquil, but a tempest, and Ozai was in the heart of it alone. The frigid water enveloped him, swallowing him under the relentless ocean's power, twisting him in stomach-churning circles. Then the pain scorched through his body, propelling him to the surface for a gasp of conscious-relieving air, only for it to pull him under the monstrous waves once more.

There was suddenly a heat, a burning, searing heat that was unlike any fire that Ozai had ever produced or felt, piercing through his arm unbearably. It burned through the icy water that kept him contained in its grasp, a fire that wasn't able to be doused out by water, a fire where no fire should exist. Then the heat morphed into ice, an ice-like throbbing that pulsed in tandem with the beat of his own heart. The heat was gone, and he had never missed it so much! Not even when the Avatar had stolen his inner flame!

Then it happened again as the icy pounding began to fade away, replaced by a pleasurable, powerful fire, burning through the frigid sea surrounding him. He felt all of these changes as they occurred, recognized what was happening and that it must be part of the healing process that Vaatu had spoken of. Ozai's eyes snapped open, burning like melted gold. He watched as his body turned and twisted, limbs working furiously against the tremendous pressure of the tempest-induced whirlpool. He didn't know how much longer he could hold on and refuse death's release, but abruptly he had a flash of the Avatar and his pathetic excuse of a son at the thought of death.

How could he have his vengeance if he was dead?

A vicious panic surged through him, spreading through his body, his mind. He refused to die! Ozai began to kick furiously, thrashing and clawing at the towering sprouts of water above him. He broke the surface of the ocean and his eyes locked onto his growing arm that was swelling, skin and muscle and bone stretching, and perfect.

He had done it - he had survived the procedure!

Sparks of agony then faded and condensed into nothingness. Ozai's eyes shot open and he could feel his arm attached to his shoulder. His gaze traveled to his arm and Vaatu's shadows slowly faded away, revealing his completely healed limb.

Suddenly, he noticed the scorch marks on the ceiling and the wall of shadows that separated him from the others. His firebending had exploded, mouth roaring pure flames as the pain had been too much.

Then, the wall vanished, Hama and the other warily approaching. Ozai clenched both his fists tightly, pure fire blossoming from both, crackling throughout the room with power, alighting his gleeful expression.

"You have accomplished what you were brought here to do, Hama." Ozai said, golden eyes connecting with her proud ones, "Now, I will make certain that Katara will suffer by your hands."

That was as close as a 'thank you' as he would utter, and Hama seemed to recognize it as she nodded, eyes gleaming darkly.

Vaatu seemed to purr, "It is good to see you fully healed, my friend." The spirit blurred forward and rushed into Ozai's body, fusing the two together for a short time. Power seeped through every pore in his body, clouding the air as Hama and Zhao were forced to their knees from the sheer pressure. "It is of the most-opportune importance that you are fully healed, Ozai. It is perfect timing, actually." Vaatu's voice echoed in his mind, "I just received word from our chi-stealing friend that the attack on your brother has failed just like we had expected it to. What is important is that our spy remains hidden from the eyes of the Avatar and his allies. Our plans are finally beginning to condense and soon, the Avatar will feel our vengeance as we kill all those whom he loves. I've been in contact with our ally, Chin V, and he disclosed that the Children of Chin are a little over a day's journey away. He seeks to begin your training immediately, eager to train the destroyer of the Avatar." The spirit rushed out of Ozai, and the Phoenix King missed the power.

Zhao stood up, rubbing his knees, "Piandao, I've done as you asked. All the disgraced Fire Nation soldiers and overthrown Heads of the former Noble Houses do eagerly want to join us; they had practically begged me." He said proudly, an arrogant smirk plastered across his face, "They seek revenge on Fire Lord… Zuko and will bear arms with us against the Avatar."

"Good," Vaatu hissed, "good, good. Soon, we will have an army formidable enough to invade the Northern Water Tribe, revealing the truth to the Waterbenders. You, Hama will be crucial during the invasion." The spirit paused, tilting his form, "We will speak more of this later, Piandao. Seek whatever pleasure that you desire to celebrate your recovery. It is time that I made contact with a resentful Child of Water in the North." Vaatu swiftly blurred out of the room, disappearing.

Zhao, it seemed, was still familiar with Ozai's methods as he quickly scurried out of the room, leaving Hama and the Phoenix King alone.

Ozai stood up, feeling more rejuvenated than he had in months, and loomed over Hama, "I'm going to be blunt, Hama. I need a release and I want you to give it to me. Now, either way, I'm going to fuck you, but it's your choice if you want to be a willing participant."

The Waterbender narrowed her eyes, staring at him challengingly, which was something that Ozai respected. "Well, it's been a long time, and despite your most obvious Fire Nation features, you are handsome." She smirked and reached out, fingers skimming across his broad chest, "I don't want a relationship, Piandao, and even if I did, I highly, most highly doubt that I could ever love a Child of Fire."

"Good," Ozai's words cut through the air, "because all I'm looking for is a fuck-buddy." He decided to reveal his plan to her, knowing that if she was horrified, he would simply kill her. She was not a threat and she had no use any longer, her usefulness had run out. "I'm also hoping to sire multiple children through you and any women who I fuck."

Hama's jaw dropped, speechlessness carved into her skin. Her fists clenched several times, and Ozai waited, not knowing how much longer before he would simply force himself on her. "Why?" She asked curiously after several moments.

"The Avatar is powerful beyond measure, living for ten thousand years, growing stronger with each reincarnation. He has allies who, unfortunately, aren't incompetent imbeciles in the bending arts. Rather the opposite, actually. Not every person who joins our ranks will be a bender, nonetheless a bender of our, or their, caliber. If I spread my seed, a powerful army of my bending children will help lead us to victory." Fire sprouted from Ozai's curled fingers. "They will be loyal to me and strong." He trailed off, staring at Hama expectantly.

"And if any non-benders are born?"

"I will kill them, discarding them because non-benders are a deformity to one's bloodline."

Hama frowned, "Yet, you were a non-bender before Vaatu freed you from the treacherous Fire Lord Zuko's control. Those words are the words that you were raised with, not yours. I will give you your release, but only as long as you don't kill any non-bending children that you sire."

Ozai almost rolled his eyes in disgust, but barely refrained from doing so. "As you wish, now strip naked so that I can fuck you mercilessly."

Hama removed her garbs and Ozai descended upon her, sating the beast inside him.

XxXxXxXxXxX

"You know, Fire Lord Zuko, I'm surprised. I truly am. Never would I have thought that Sozin's conquest would leave any survivors." King Bumi's lopsided eyes glowed like poisonous, pristine emeralds. "Dragons that still exist. By Devi, I've missed those fanged creatures, Fire Lord. I remember, when I was only a boy, the sight of those beasts darting through the sky like winged-arrows."

Zuko ached to hear more of the era when there had been no world brutally molested by the Great War. He leaned forward slightly, "What were they like, if I may ask? I yearn to know of the full extent of Sozin's atrocities."

"Dragons were rare to see, even in my childhood, but everyone was awestruck when he or she were gifted the chance to glimpse the creatures. Aang and I had a friend named Kuzon before your time. He was a Firebender and had bonded with a Dragon several years into the Great War; only adult humans can bond with a Dragon. I assume because a child would be eaten by their Dragon. Anyway, I never saw Kuzon's creature but my friend always said that they were fiercely intelligent and dominant. Even Sozin himself was wary of the Dragons and when the opportunity presented itself, he struck. Eventually, Dragons fell out of the minds of benders and non-benders alike; nobody remembered a time when Dragons had flooded the sky alongside the creatures borne of Air and razed down forests in a display of their legendary, fiery temper. It's sad, in hindsight. They were a majestic breed of creatures, on par with the mighty Sky Bison, burly Badgermoles, and savage Polar Dogs. The end of their kind was a tragedy. When the Dragons fell, Sozin would skin the beasts of their tough, almost impenetrable hide, keeping each head as a trophy."

Zuko remembered the scrolls in the Dragon Bone Catacombs that he had studied upon his ascension to Fire Lord. He had memorized all of the facts he could about the Dragons, yearning to simply know about the majestic breed of creatures that had taught him the true meaning of firebending. From what the scrolls had divulged, Dragons had strong scales covering the majority of their bodies, which could resist most weapons and bending and animal attacks. Apparently, the only breed of creature that could pierce their scales and thick, tough hide beside other Dragons themselves were the horns of a Sky Bison. Zuko then wondered what Appa was truly like when enraged. Under Lake Laogai, Appa had been more scared than angry.

What was a fully-grown Sky Bison capable of?

He shivered at the thought and remembered other facts about the Dragons. From the scrolls, it said that young Dragons had to grow into their natural armor, taking their entire adolescence and childhood to fully become the powerful creatures of legend that King Bumi spoke of. Despite their great armored scales, the underbelly of a Dragon was described in the scrolls as soft, slimy, and unarmored, and could easily be exploited as a point of vulnerability in combat and was often targeted by Dragon-hunters and even Fire Lord Sozin himself.

"Did you ever see a Dragon fall?" Zuko asked softly, almost hesitant to hear the answer.

King Bumi gazed at him with such heavy eyes that his breath hitched. "Yes, I did. It was before I became King of Omashu. I was on a hunting trip with a fellow platoon of Earthbenders, seeking to capture Children of Fire. We were on the outskirts of a village that was notorious for its breath-stealing women. The others and I had left after several fun nights, journeying through a luscious forest before beginning to climb the peak to reach, where rumor said, a Fire Nation squadron resided. Suddenly, a flash of fire erupted in the sky itself and everyone gazed up in petrified awe as two Dragons were fighting."

Zuko tensed, "What happened?"

"Massive jaws lined with teeth sharp as swords tore at their kin's hide, causing drops of blood to fall down from the sky like rain itself. Claws as long as spears ripped flesh from flesh and the howls of pain shook my heart from where I watched on that mountain. It was two blue-colored beasts roaring fire at each other, but there was a critical difference between the two: Fire Lord Sozin was atop one of them, riding it."

"Azar," he whispered in recognition.

King Bumi nodded and his voice was soft, "Yes, you're right. It was at that moment when I realized I was watching Fire Lord Sozin's famed Dragon-slaying beast, Azar. The other creature didn't stand a chance, in all honesty. It was obvious from my vantage point. Azar was mauling his kin until finally, lightning shot out from Sozin's fingers into the beast's underbelly and the other Dragon was killed instantly. Its body plummeted down like a star itself and smashed atop the village the other men and I had spent several nights. When the Dragon fell, the town was instantly decimated in a fiery explosion, the creature's corpse all that was visible amongst the crushed buildings and raging fires." A sigh escaped the King's mouth. "I tried to keep the other men focused on our mission, but we were all angry, desiring to spill Sozin's blood for the village that had offered us such hospitality a day previously and for everything the Great War had taken from us. I did my best, but the thirst for vengeance is, at times, unquenchable."

"You fought… Fire Lord Sozin?" Zuko asked in an awed whisper. "And you still live to tell the tale!"

"Yes, but I was the only one." Bumi's brilliant green eyes became hazy. "Azar landed in the decimated village and Sozin had hopped off and began to skin the beast with a flaming sword. That's when the other men and I began our assault. Immediately, the beast descended on us, tearing through one of my compatriot's body like paper. He bit off another's head and Sozin quickly joined the fight. It was a slaughter. During the ensuing massacre, that was the first moment when I realized why Sozin was so feared. Within a dozen seconds of him entering the fray, I was the only remaining Earthbender still alive. In my panic to live, I tried to flee, but the Dragon was too fast. Azar blocked any path I had and I reluctantly turned to face Sozin, to face my death."

"How did you escape?"

"Your forefather let me go, Fire Lord Zuko." King Bumi chuckled humorlessly. "He said, 'What is your name, boy?' And after I had told him my name, Sozin gripped my chin between his thumb and finger, deadly, golden eyes searching my own eyes. 'Do you know why you still yet live, Bumi?' He had asked and I shook my head, too terrified to say a single word. 'You hail from Omashu, do you not? I'd recognize their elite Earthbenders anywhere. For too many years, since my conquest began, the city of Omashu has resisted my forces, killing many of my men. It has been a thorn in my side for too long, but there is no need to fear me, Bumi, no need at all. I will leave you alive, only if you do something for me. Find that old, vain, coward you call a 'King' and relay a message to him from Fire Lord Sozin. Tell him that one day Omashu will fall and that when the day comes, the Children of Fire will burn the Earth and all of its obstinate children. If not by my hand, my heir and his descendants will see to my promise. Will you uphold your end of our bargain and tell your King, Bumi of Omashu?' I had had no choice but to accept and I was spared. I fled back to Omashu and sought an audience with the newly-instated King, but I was denied by that fucking prick. Eventually, I decided that if I were to implement any true change, I would need to be the King. With Sozin's promise echoing in my ears, I defeated that bastard and became the King of Omashu. Before striking the final blow, I did tell the false King of Sozin's words, thus upholding my end of the bargain - a dutiful sense to honor my word, I suppose."

"I had no idea," Zuko said quietly after a moment, guiltily looking away from the wise King.

"Anyway, you are allowed access to my messengers and anything you would need to contact this Sun Warrior Tribe you spoke of, Fire Lord Zuko. Dragons would be a major ally in our fight against your father and Dark's legions. I will have a messenger in your room upon your return, waiting to send a message to wherever it needs to."

Zuko stood gracefully and nodded his head in respect, "Thank you for recalling Sozin's deeds and for allowing me access, King Bumi. It is much appreciated and will not be forgotten."

King Bumi snorted, "I can see that your itching to leave, Fire Lord. You may be the ruler of your entire nation, but you're still a child in my eyes; you can't conceal much from me."

"I'll take my leave, then," Zuko said awkwardly and exited the room, mind whirling with the thoughts of Sozin. Ever since when he had learned that Vaatu had manipulated his ancestor into starting the Great War, Zuko had been hesitant to blame Sozin at all for the atrocities that the Fire Nation had committed.

But after hearing King Bumi's experience with Fire Lord Sozin, Zuko was beginning to wonder if Vaatu had only needed to point Sozin in the right direction to reap blood and death and sorrow, a small guiding hand on his shoulder. He wasn't sure. The man in King Bumi's story was… who he had always envisioned Fire Lord Sozin before learning of Vaatu and Agni's machinations.

Maybe Sozin wasn't a victim as Zuko had built in his mind since the discovery via Toph those months ago, but rather a colluder along with Vaatu and Agni.

He brought his hands up to his nose and pinched the bridge, growling lowly. He needed to stop! The sins of his forefathers don't fall atop his own shoulders. He needed to stop feeling guilty for Ozai, Azulon, and Sozin's crimes!

Zuko inhaled slowly and exhaled, feeling his inner flame quiver with the movement. He opened his eyes and journeyed to his room, wanting to get the message sent immediately.

XxXxXxXxXxX

She tiredly entered her quarters, utterly worn out from learning under Avatar Kirku. She had tracked down Aang to see if his former life would make certain of his promise and teach her the true meaning of waterbending.

Aang had then, to her absolute shock, pulled her into a hug, wrapping his arms around her tightly. "I forgive you," he had whispered, and Katara had frozen against his chest, feeling her lips quiver before she began to cry.

The weight that had borne down on her for so long had finally dissipated, fleeing under the feel of Aang's forgiveness. "Thank you," she had choked out. "I've missed you,"

"Me too," Aang had smiled down at her and the lack of anger in his eyes soothed her heart, reassuring her that it wasn't a cruel joke or a dream. "And I hope that you find peace with Kirku's teachings, Katara." He stepped back with a soft smile and Avatar Kirku had then shimmered into his place, looking down at her with eyes as blue as water.

"Hello again, young one. Are you ready to begin your training?" Avatar Kirku's voice was just as ancient as she had remembered, the echo of roaring waves.

She had swallowed and kneeled before him, feeling lighter than she had in a long time. "Yes, Avatar Kirku, I am. Teach me."

Katara stumbled to her bed and fell on the mattress, closing her eyes in exhaustion. Kirku had been brutal and uncompromising, quite terrifyingly like an Earthbender, but she understood.

Waterbending must be brought back to its true teachings and Kirku didn't know how long he would be able to have the opportunity to pass on his knowledge.

She sighed and opened her eyes, leaning up and smiled tiredly at the sight of the scrolls on the table. She moved to her feet heavily and brought the scrolls back to the bed with her, eager to review what King Bumi had recommended.

Shifting through the many various scrolls that Aang's oldest friend had endorsed yesterday, Katara found records of previous eras when Ba Sing Se wasn't the cultural phenomenon it was nowadays. Many centuries ago, before Avatar Kyoshi's reign and the creation of the Dai Li, Ba Sing Se had been, apparently, less than half of its current size.

From what the scrolls revealed, Ba Sing Se's 41st King had forbidden entry into his city unless he was given a grand offering of treasure and/or women. To keep families from overpopulating his city, he had vetoed any renovations that would build additions to his province. There was no outer wall, only a dismal boundary that prohibited any to enter without the King's knowledge.

The 41st Earth King of Ba Sing Se was loathed throughout the Earth Kingdom, not just by the lower classes, but also by the Noble Houses and the fellow Kings of the Major Earth Kingdom Cities: Omashu, Zaofu, and Chyung.

Apparently, after many years of 'bad blood' between them, the King of Zaofu had given his discreet blessing by offering aid to a band of rebels who desired to assassinate Ba Sing Se's King. In return, if they succeeded, the King of Zaofu's lone daughter amongst his several sons would become the new King of Ba Sing Se's bride.

The coup was a success and the leader of the band of rebels became the 42nd Earth King of Ba Sing Se, marrying the King of Zaofu's only daughter. Immediately, massive overhauls were commissioned, allowing much of Ba Sing Se to be rebuilt, fortified, and expanded. The city was then separated into three main districts, allowing the social classes to converse with people of similar contentions. A social reformation had arisen and the Children of Earth experienced their cultural reawaken from its centuries-long sleep.

Katara closed the scroll and wondered how the Dai Li had come to control all of Ba Sing Se without Kuei's knowledge. She already knew that Avatar Kyoshi had created the Dai Li, training them herself and groomed them to be her perfect, silent soldiers who protected the Children of Earth and its ideals. How did the Dai Li come to have more power than Ba Sing Se's King?

She glanced up startled when the door to her room opened. She smiled at the sight of Zuko's almost hesitant expression. "Hey, I'm surprised, but happy nonetheless, to see you. Is something wrong?" She put the scroll down and stood up, "It's late."

"Yeah, I know," Zuko muttered quietly and fully entered, taller body looming in the small, enclosed area. "I just wanted to see you, that's all."

She felt her lips curl into a soft, genuine smile. "That's sweet of you, Fire Lord."

He scowled, "A Fire Lord is not sweet, as you so insultingly put it."

"Fine, Zuko," she raised a brow. "That's noble of you, Fire Lord."

Zuko sniffed and observed her room, golden eyes burning with emotions. "Nice room," he said lamely after several moments.

Katara was suddenly reminded of the Western Air Temple and the memory of Zuko appearing before them awkwardly. 'Hello, Zuko here.'

She stepped closer and saw him stiffen. Slowly, like she was approaching Aang when he was lost in an enraged Avatar State, she placed her hand gently on his shoulder. "What's wrong? What is it?"

"I finally sent a letter to the Sun Warrior tribe, asking for their presence, along with Ran and Shaw, if needed, to help against Ozai." He began slowly, spacing his words.

"So King Bumi adhered to your request. That was kind of him." Her words seemed to have the opposite effect of what she had intended. Instead, Zuko tensed even further and she felt heat wafting off him in waves. She frowned, "What do you have against King Bumi? He's been nothing but gracious to us since we arrived."

"That's the fucking point!" Zuko exploded and the candles in the room blazed in an almost blinding light. "He has lost so much to my lineage, to Azulon and Ozai! Why would he be nice to me, who has the very blood of Sozin flowing in his veins? In King Bumi's eyes, I should be Sozin reborn! I spoke with him earlier about the Dragons and he shared details that I had never known. He had watched the massacre of his fellow countrymen by Sozin's hands, unable to save them as my forefather snuffed their lives out. I've had it stuck in my head ever since when Toph revealed that Sozin was under Agni's control - and thus Dark's - that he was a victim as much as anyone, but what if I was only deluding myself, trying to only see what I wanted to see?"

Katara carefully chose her words. "Sozin might not have been the greatest Child of Fire, but there was good in him. Aang has said as much from Roku's memories - and your uncle has mentioned a few things, too. Sozin might have succumbed to Dark's manipulations but most of his ancestors haven't - Iroh, you, and now Azula." She brought her hand up to Zuko's cheek, gentle fingers trying to soothe his agitation. Zuko nestled his head in her hands and Katara smiled. "Fire Lord Sozin's legacy will always be convoluted, but it's not just ash and bones as we had always believed. His legacy will be history, whether good or bad. As long as this world exists, the name Sozin will never be swept away by the sands of time, Zuko. Although his legacy was dark and terrible and evil at times, he had his moments. You and Azula and your mother have mentioned several times of how esteemed Sozin is in the Fire Nation. He was a great Fire Lord to his people who, from what I've heard, upheld the ideals of the Children of Fire."

"But he was a monster, though."

She nodded slowly, gingerly rubbing her thumbs in Zuko's cheeks, careful not to say something that she would regret. "At many points in his long life, yes, but then again, aren't we all monsters? Nobody, not even the Avatar, is perfect. I've bloodbent an innocent man and unfairly taken lives." She finally admitted aloud the fact that she was a killer; it was a small relief to have that weight vanish.

Zuko didn't look at her any differently. In fact, he looked proud of her and his lips twitched. "I've killed many people, as well. I guess you're right," he said softly. "Sozin was a terrible person in his lifetime but he was also a great man. Perhaps his legacy might have been different if Dark hadn't interfered."

"Maybe, but nobody could possibly know if Sozin would have walked a different path." She saw Zuko's golden eyes dim and she quickly reassured him. "Zuko, just because that is Sozin's legacy doesn't mean that it's yours. You have time to create your own just as your uncle did."

"You are incredible," he breathed out after a moment and Katara felt heat flush through her body at the way his eyes sizzled against her own.

It swiftly reminded her of the question that had been haunting her since the day that they had decided to 'try things out.'

She quickly took a step back and sat on her bed, staring up at Zuko, doing her best to ignore how he suddenly seemed so handsome. "Where do you see this going? This thing - us?" She demanded bluntly, "I don't want to get my heart broken, Zuko, and if you're wanting to go back to Mai or marry some noble- "

"All I want is you, Katara." He slowly kneeled in front of her, hands resting on her thighs, eyes looking up into her own. He abruptly looked more nervous than she had ever seen him, even worse than the Western Air Temple all those years ago. "I've… I've loved you for years," he said softly and Katara's heart stopped. "I fell in love with you at the twilight of the Great War. I've been denying it, but no longer." His words were low and Katara knew that this was very challenging for him to open up the way he was. "You see, it was such a difficult time for me, knowing that my father might kill Aang. And then there had been the realization that I would battle Azula for the Dragon's Throne. But then I would see you smile, and all my terror would fade away. Now, it's stronger whenever I see you smile. Aang has spoken about peace and how it feels, and I had never experienced that before I met you, Katara. When I'm in your presence, I feel peaceful."

Katara swallowed and suddenly felt several tears slide down her cheeks. She was flooded by the emotions pouring out of her heart at his admission, and after several quivering breaths, and Zuko looking at her warily and hesitantly, she smiled tearfully. "I love you, too," she choked out and suddenly she was in Zuko's arms, warmth surrounding her, thawing out every frigid emotional boundary that she had ever erected.

Seconds passed and she nuzzled her face further into his chest, feeling safer in his arms than ever before. She felt his chest rumble with his breath. "Whenever you're ready, I'm ready. You're all there is for me, okay?"

"Are you talking about marriage?"

"Yes, but I'm not forcing you into anything, no matter if your father wants it. As long as you're happy, I'm happy. We can wait for years to get married if you want, or we can never get married if you want, though I doubt that you want to forever remain 'single'."

Katara inhaled shakily; her words were soft. "As you know, my father has been pestering me for years to marry and create an alliance with someone of great power for my Tribe."

Zuko chuckled, "And who is more powerful than the Fire Lord, save the Avatar?" He asked rhetorically. "It will be a good match, definitely for your Tribe and the North."

She turned her head to look up at him and smiled timidly. "If we do get married, we'd need to message my father and he can send you my dowry. I'm certain that he will be pleased with my decision, how I adhered to the rules of our agreement."

"There is no need for a dowry, Katara. You're all that I want, no treasure or anything." He paused and his golden eyes burned with something that looked like jealousy. "I know of your agreement with your father, but there wasn't anyone from your Tribe who was expecting to marry you, was there? The thought... incurs anger."

"No, don't worry, Zuko. There is no one else, there never has been, not even King Kuei before he was killed. Actually, I guess, deep down, I always knew that it would be you, Zuko, who I would choose, even before the list. I've never laid with any of the men who desired me from my Tribe because I suppose that I was always saving my maidenhead for you." Zuko went completely still at her words and Katara leaned back, frowning up at his face. "What's wrong?"

Zuko's face cracked, showing the fear, shame, regret, and guilt. He swallowed, "I wish... that I could say the same."

"What do you mean?" She asked quietly, having the terrible realization of what he meant.

"I've laid with concubines," his words floated in the air, mocking her with the intensity of a tsunami. Oxygen refused to enter her starved lungs as despair threatened to overwhelm her. She felt betrayal course through her heart, but she also felt that perhaps this was her punishment for abandoning Zuko and Aang after the Great War.

Several tears spilled down her cheeks and through watery-eyes, she stared up at Zuko. "Was it after I left? That's when it started, isn't it?"

He hesitated and she closed her eyes in self-loathing, knowing that she had no one to blame but herself. She heard his ragged breathing and then, "No, it wasn't, Katara."

Her blue eyes snapped open and shock was carved into her face. "What?" She asked dumbly.

"I was 13-years-old when I first did it, when the... damn cycle began." Zuko's golden eyes were sad and dark. "My crew on my ship took me to a brothel for my name-day and after that, I was hooked. You just have to know how my mind was working at that time. I had just received my scar from Ozai and was banished from my home, forever cursed to chase after a believed-dead and elusive legend. I had no home, no family except uncle, and no honor. It was before I ever met you, and when I did encounter you, I never went to a brothel after our first meeting at the Southern Water Tribe when I attacked your village. I don't know why, but I suspect that it was because I knew that the Avatar had returned and he was within my grasp. Because I was so concentrated and motivated, I stopped my visits to the brothels across the Earth Kingdom. It was good until after the Great War ended." Katara turned away, trying to keep Zuko's admission from eviscerating her heart, but she couldn't. It was her fault! "After Aang left, it was then when I had returned to my old habits but much worse. I'm going to be honest because that's the only way I believe that love between us could hold steadfast." Katara glanced at Zuko out of the corner of her eye, noticing the shame and guilt carved into his handsome, chiseled features. "For years, I ordered for concubines to be sent to my quarters. It was multiple times a day and it was like that until I found my mother. While I still laid with concubines, it was nowhere near what it once was after she had returned into my life. I don't know if it will make you feel better, but since you and Sokka came back into my life, I haven't laid with a single harlot, or received or given any carnal pleasure."

"Did you father any… father any children?" She asked quietly, heart wounded by his words even though it was her own fault. She honestly didn't know how she would react if Zuko did father any children with his… concubines.

"No, all of the concubines in the Fire Nation consume a tea that prohibited them from carrying a child unless their master wished otherwise. I did not want any bastard children. Something like the Cousins' War could happen again if I sired bastards. I didn't want to be responsible for such a thing, and plus, I want children with someone who... who I... I love."

"How many?"

"What?"

Katara whirled around, eyes glaring, blazing with all of the hurt and pain that she was feeling. "How many whores did you fuck?"

"I don't know, I truly don't. It was too many, for certain, and not a single day goes by where I don't yearn for the chance to go into the Tree of Time that Aang had spoken about and travel back in time. I fantasize about meeting my younger self and pounding him to the floor and castrating him painfully, slicing his cock off with my swords." Katara looked at him with wide eyes, witnessing the truth in his words. "It was all meaningless, Katara," he had never looked so desperate, eyes pleading with her. "It was a physical release that I needed because I was so lonely. Uncle was gone, my father was imprisoned and refused to corporate, Azula was in the Mental Institute, my mother was still gone, and the Gaang was all gone. You must believe me, I never loved any of those women, I didn't! In fact, I don't know any of their names, never did. They were all faceless in my mind when I laid with them." Zuko grasped her hands before she could react and she was struck by the honesty shining in his beautiful golden eyes. "I... it... I only fucked them, Katara; there was no... love-making. It had no physical contact save for the minimum necessities. I never even kissed them, refusing to do such an act with someone for whom I didn't at least care."

"You've never kissed anyone?" She asked hopefully after a moment.

"I shared a few kisses with Mai, but they were nothing. I also never laid with her, if you're wondering." Zuko narrowed his eyes at her, seeing something in her expression. "You kissed Aang several times," he pointed out and she realized that she couldn't really condemn him for she would be a hypocrite.

Katara's feeling of betrayal still lurked in her heart and she felt more tears well in her eyes. "I don't... know what to say."

"You don't need to say anything, Katara. I understand that I've hurt you, and I also understand that it will take time for you to... trust me again." He looked sad and he then stepped closer, and she let him. Their eyes locked and emotions passed between them. Slowly, so ever slowly, his hands wrapped around her neck and he brought his lips down to her own. It was soft and loving, a simple massage between their lips.

He pulled back after a moment but Katara refused to let him. She smashed his lips back down and desperately kissed him, trying to purge all of the pain and hurt. Their tongues slid against one another and Katara moaned into his mouth, and before she knew what she was doing, she jumped up and wrapped her legs around his waist in one smooth motion. Zuko didn't waver and kept his heated hands on her, roaming everywhere until they settled on her buttocks, cupped possessively. His lips moved from her lips to her throat, nipping every inch of the delicate skin with reverence. Katara's head fell back and she moaned as Zuko attacked a particularly sensitive, pleasurable spot with his tongue and lips.

They both suddenly froze when his manhood touched her center through their garments.

Katara swallowed and tried to get a sense of control. "I'm not ready."

"That's okay," he whispered and gently sat her down on the bed. "It's late. Let's just get some sleep, okay?"

She saw him sit on the bed as well and narrowed her eyes. "Just sleep? You're not going to try and seduce me, are you?" She left out the admission that she would probably welcome his amorous advances, regardless of the betrayal that she felt.

His lips twitched and he pushed her down on the mattress, falling down next to her. Then he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into his warm chest. "No, I'm not," he said quietly. "This is more than enough for me."

Katara let him hold her and relaxed in his embrace, feeling relief that he wasn't going to push her. He simply wanted to hold her while they slept and it was enough.

XxXxXxXxXxX

Azula didn't react as Zuko's attempt to produce lightning exploded in his face once again. For many days, she had been hesitant to approach her brother about lightning-generation. Although Aang's words had echoed in her mind, the tantrums her brother had thrown during their childhood during bending practice had echoed louder for a while.

Finally, she had cornered her surprisingly elusive brother during the morning after she had stumbled upon Zuko sneaking out of Katara's room. Then, she had pounced in opportunity.

Currently, she had been watching him for the past half hour after she had suggested that she teach him lightning - he had accepted almost immediately, no doubt to distract her from the scene she had just witnessed. Zuko had surprised her by already knowing the movements. Apparently, their uncle had tried to teach her brother lightning years ago during the Great War, but Zuko hadn't been ready to master it.

She didn't know, though, if he was ready, now.

"You're trying too hard, brother," she called out, a safe distance away from him. "You have to let it flow."

Zuko whirled around, glaring at her, "That's easy for you to say - everything is easy for you."

She raised an eyebrow undeterred, "That's not true, Zuzu. Accepting my feelings for Aang wasn't easy. Refusing Ozai and denouncing him wasn't easy. Living life hasn't been easy for either of us. We have a lot more in common than you might think."

"Like what?" He huffed out.

"We both grew up under Ozai," she pointed out, watching as he paled, blood draining from his features and his fists clenched, smoke slithering through his closed fingers. "I've accepted the abuse that I suffered, but I don't think that you have." She saw her brother about to vehemently deny it, but she cut him off. "Just because you mastered your chakras doesn't mean that all of those negative emotions just simply vanish. That's not how it works. After mastering your chakras, you can still easily become inept, blocking the flow. You have to continuously work at keeping them mastered and opened for the rest of your life."

"How... how did you... how did you do it?" He whispered desperately, and Azula stepped closer, placing a hesitant, supportive hand on his shoulder, "How can you- …Ozai tortured us for years. We both know that there was no end to his creativity, his monstrous depravity. It wasn't… that wasn't living. How can you get over something like that?" He looked lost, an echo of the boy who he used to be before their mother had left. "How have you found this peace? He took away our humanity, almost everything that ever mattered. He scarred us both physically and emotionally for life. How did you do it, Azula?"

She smiled sadly in understanding, "By accepting it, Zuko. That's all that you can do. You need to recognize that there is nothing that you can do to change the abuse that we both suffered at his hands. Both of our stories don't have a happy beginning - rather, the opposite." She pulled her hand off of his shoulder, letting it fall to her side. "Those memories don't define who we are, dear brother. It's who we choose to be, how we deal with the torture by Ozai that defines us. What will be our legacy, brother? How will history remember the children of Ozai and Ursa? Now, you can choose to accept it as I have, or not. You can either become better or bitter from the horrors dealt by our father. Ultimately, it's your choice, Zuko. I can't make it for you."

He was pale, but slowly, determinedly, his face became smooth, calm as he nodded imperceptibly. "You're right, you're right." Azula tried to smile encouragingly at her brother, but since she had not done it since before their mother had left all of those years ago, she wasn't sure that it was correct. "I've let him have power over me for too fucking long," he abruptly turned around and Azula stepped back, giving him space as she took her position.

It was silent, the only sounds were Zuko's heavy breathing which quickly calmed and came in even breaths. Azula watched proudly as her brother wound his arms in the familiar motion, sparks blooming across his fingers as always, but this time, Zuko's movements were sure and calm rather than agitated.

His arms were fully apart and after a moment, they came together like light and darkness, day and night, yin and yang.

Lightning exploded from Zuko's fingertips, sparkling through the air, the crackling sound echoing in her ears like roaring thunder. The sky flashed with her brother's lightning strike and Azula felt her lips curve into a smile.

"You see, Zuzu, it's all about acceptance," she shouted over the receded thundering noise. "You could always do it; it's in our family: Sozin, Azulon, Iroh, Ozai, mother, me, and now you."

Her brother turned towards to her and a bright smile was plastered on his face. Azula hadn't seen that smile for well over a decade, and she was relieved to see that Zuko still knew how to smile using his true smile.

"Thank you, Azula," he said and suddenly hugged her. "I couldn't have done it without you."

Azula froze and slowly wrapped her arms around his back, squeezing hesitantly. When Zuko squeezed tightly, she began to feel the beginnings of tears well in her eyes. It had been so long, from before their mother had left, since the two of them had shared a real embrace.

"You're welcome, Zuzu," she whispered, "and I'm... I'm sorry... for everything. I wasn't a good sister once mom left and I made your life hell. I shot you with lightning, trying to kill your now-lover if what I saw earlier is any indication. I'm so sorry, Zuko," she breathed out, confessing into his shoulder. "Yet in spite of everything, you loved me anyway when you should have despised my existence. You refused to hand me over to the Earth Kingdom when they wanted my head on a pike. You didn't execute me when anyone else would have. Then, you saved my life, changing it when you sent me to Ember Island. Because of you, I was able to meet my husband."

Zuko started, "Husband? Since when?" He didn't look mad. Instead, he actually looked proud of her.

"The moment that we consummated - it's Air Nomad law. We've actually been married a while now, but I finally forced him to admit it only days ago."

He pulled back and put a hand on her shoulder. "I'm happy for you, I truly am."

She leaned up and kissed his cheek gently. "Thank you for everything that you've done for me, brother mine. You are a far better person than I. And remember," she stared into his eyes - golden versus golden! "You are not Ozai. The sins of the father don't fall to the son. You aren't Ozai, Zuko. You are… you, and I'm proud to be your sister."

For the first time in almost eighteen years, the two children of Ozai and Ursa fully trusted each other, reconciling with one another.

XxXxXxXxXxX

The climate was frigid, biting through his parka effortlessly. The icy wind howled, masking the angry snarls escaping his lips. He was away from the city, wandering the frozen terrain above the Spirit Oasis, trying to escape from them, those fools.

Ever since the Great War had ended, the Northern Water Tribe had been heirless because Yue had sacrificed her soul to save the Moon Spirit, and thus became the Moon Spirit.

The selfish bitch.

His former betrothed had forsaken her duty to bear him sons and had instead chosen immortality, forever intertwining her name with the Ocean itself! But what had happened to him, her intended, the future Chief of the Northern Water Tribe?

He had been disgraced! Hahn had once been one of the highest-ranking warriors in the Tribe, discounting the generals and commanders like Pakku. He was superior to many fools in tactical battle strategy and because he had been betrothed to Princess Yue, the heir to the icy throne, respect had been doted on him like the air itself continuously gave him breath, and so many perks had been gained. He was soon to be the Chief, one of the most powerful men in the world.

After the Avatar had decimated the Fire Navy in an unholy display of absolute power, though, Hahn's downfall had begun. Because had Yue died before they had been married and, as a result, given him no heirs, he had lost all potential rights to becoming the Chief. Arnook had then, to Hahn's shock and fury, revealed that Sokka, that buffoon of a warrior, was more than likely to become the first true Chief of the Water Tribes, ruling both the North and South unanimously!

Through the years, Hahn had seen plenty of his usurper. His rival had often traveled between the two Tribes ever since the Great War had ceased, learning under Arnook and the Northern Tribe's elders.

It became even worse when Sokka's wife - how Tui and La had blessed the Usurper with such a woman was beyond him - had broken his arm after Hahn attempted to show her a true Water Tribe warrior's passion. He was then mocked relentlessly by his fellow warriors and soon enough, they had flocked to the Usurper's side, trying to befriend their future Chief.

Then, when Sokka had been included in military meetings, Hahn had offered great, insightful plans only for the Usurper to discard them like trash, finding flaws as easily as one could find water in the North Pole. To make matters worse, Arnook had then definitively proclaimed Sokka as his heir, securing the Usurper's path to complete control of the Children of Water.

Sokka wasn't even a Waterbender! Neither was his wife, not even a bender!

Hahn himself wasn't a bender but he was from a long line of strong Waterbenders. One of his ancestors had trained Avatar Roku himself in the art, rigorously pushing Roku until he became a true Avatar. That was why he had been betrothed to Yue at a young age - his bloodline was worthy. Arnook was a powerful Waterbender, having been trained by Master Pakku himself, and Yue, Hahn's intended, had been a Waterbender, as well. Any future heirs between he and Yue would have been Waterbenders. Now, though, Arnook had become so pathetically grief-stricken by his bitch of a daughter's death that he was weakening the Water Tribes!

Fool.

Sokka was borne from a line of non-benders, the only exception being his sister, who was an anomaly. When the Usurper will begin to sire future Chiefs of the Water Tribes, only non-benders will be the result! Even Sokka's bitch-wife was of the Earth Kingdom! Arnook was weakening the Royal Water Bloodline, diluting it with the blood of a Child of Earth! How could the Water Tribes hope to emulate the Fire Nation? The line of Sozin was hailed as the strongest bloodline in the entire world, second only to any Avatar's direct descendants. Then, it became worse!

After the Great War had ended, Avatar Aang had revealed to the world that Sozin's bloodline had become forever intertwined with the bloodline of Avatar Roku! It had been to show that Fire Lord Zuko was not his monstrous father and that he was serious about a lasting peace, but it had only infuriated Hahn.

The Fire Nation's Royal Family was leagues above all of the other nations! They had set the bar and now, others in power had finally begun to gather more influence and strength as Sozin himself had done over a century ago. Rumors had recently reached the Northern Water Tribe that King Bumi had overtaken Ba Sing Se after the Avatar had murdered King Kuei, naming his grandson, who was, by all accounts, a strong Earthbender, as his successor. Rumors also now said that Omashu was being ruled by King Bumi's granddaughter, a skilled Earthbender. That meant that half of the entire Earth Kingdom, the largest of the Four Nations, was under King Bumi's power. His bloodline would soon rule all of the Children of Earth!

It was obvious to Hahn that the Avatar was 'cleaning house' amongst the Four Nations. He was reshaping the political forces of this world, creating a loyal network of the world's most powerful men in the world.

He remembered the Avatar from all those years ago when that boy had brought the entire Fire Nation's Navy to the Northern Water Tribe's shores. That naive bald kid had remarked to Sokka's bitch of a sister that he wondered if Bumi had been to the North Pole. Katara had then questioned if the Avatar had meant King Bumi, and the insulted look that crossed over the kid's features was unforgettable.

The Avatar was, somehow, a friend of King Bumi.

Now the Water Tribes were cursed, by Arnook's own hands nonetheless, to forever kneel before false Chiefs hailed from the Avatar's chosen non-bender's bloodline. His once future father-in-law and the Avatar were both single-handedly destroying Hahn's home, his should have been future people! It was unacceptable!

A rupturing dark laugh suddenly boomed and Hahn, to his shame, yelped like a Polar Dog pup and whirled around. A massive form of darkness loomed over him, lines of energy coiled through the inky blackness. Hahn swallowed and thrust his spear through this unknown assailant, but almost choked when his spear passed harmlessly through the darkness, like a stick through a shadow.

Then, the darkness spoke, "So, you are the resentful soul who I could sense all of the ways from the Earth Kingdom. It's most impressive, mortal." The blob of darkness seemed to purr, "It is rare for my attention to be focused on a being with such anger. I'm glad to see that the Great War was a success; much darkness lives in the hearts of man because of it." The darkness' booming laughter erupted again. "I have even sensed a soul that was filled with such hate all the way inside the Gardens of the Dead itself, although it wasn't near as impressive as my vessel's darkness."

"Who are you?" He demanded, trying to overcome the terror streaking through his heart. He was alone, in the presence of an obviously powerful spirit.

The darkness floated closer, circling around him like a predator. "I am an interested party, you could say. Your anger has given you purpose, and it caught my attention."

"To do what?"

"To reap vengeance upon my enemies and thus yours. You see, our enemies are one in the same, mortal. Sokka is an ally of my cursed nemesis, the Avatar."

Hahn slowly pulled his spear out of the darkness, fingers wrapped around the spear with the belief of rage. "You know of the Usurper?"

"He is the future Chief of the Water Tribes, your hatred rival who seduced your intended."

"What did you just say?"

The darkness suddenly encompassed him and the spirit's booming baritone resounded everywhere. "It would be better if I showed you, mortal."

Hahn gasped soundlessly, eyes bulging from his sockets as images pierced through his mind relentlessly, painting a collage of betrayal, shock, and overwhelming fury.

He dimly noticed the darkness float back, the frigid air biting his skin. He was shaking, fists clenched so tightly that he was afraid his knuckles would burst through his skin. "The Usurper sought to make me a fucking cuckold?" He spat.

"Yes, he did and his presence in your betrothed's life convinced her to accept immortality, becoming the Moon. Because of Sokka, mortal, you lost everything. How would you like to even the score?"

Hahn smiled darkly, "I'm not going to just even the score, mighty spirit. I will desecrate his name, his standing here in the Northern Water Tribe. I will make him a cuckold as he had sought to do to me! I will make him watch as I rape his bitch-wife, and only when the light has dimmed in his eyes, will I decapitate his ugly head and then spit on it."

"I will help you in your goal if you but help me with mine. What do you say, mortal? Have we come to an accord?"

He kneeled before this ancient spirit, recognizing that this was his chance! He could reverse his fortunes, his unlucky fate. "What is it that you wish me to do, mighty spirit."

The darkness grew larger, dwarfing his form even further. "From this point onward, you will call me Vaatu, Hahn."

"As you wish, Vaatu."

"Good, good, good. I have a special mission for you, my new friend. I will soon invade the Northern Water Tribe in order to place you upon its icy throne but first, I need you to weaken their trust, their loyalty in Sokka and the Avatar. Prey on their fears of another Great War, of their future children and grandchildren's fates."

"If it pleases you, I can fracture the truce between the two Tribes, as well. Some of my northern brethren believe that the Northern Water Tribe should control our sister Tribe."

"Yes, that would be most pleasing, Hahn." Vaatu slithered closer, darkness following intimately. "You will be Chief of the Water Tribes with any woman you choose at your side once both of our goals are realized. You will be integral in the new world order, the world that belongs to me. I made a good choice in traveling this far, seeking out that anger-filled soul." Hahn grinned wolfishly at the praise. "With your contributions, my new friend, Sokka and the Avatar will fall."

XxXxXxXxXxX

She could feel his approach, the steady, strong footsteps that hammered into her ears, causing her own heart to race anxiously. She despised the emotions that swelled within her, making her weak. She had always claimed that no man would ever make her 'soft', but she had been wrong.

Toph knew almost immediately that Bor had timed his approach, cornering her when she had just exited her room for breakfast. She didn't dare command the earth to swallow her for every Earthbender in the palace would feel it, and she didn't want them to investigate.

At that thought, she scowled and stood taller, the pride of an Earthbender swarming her mind.

It was time to confront the problem head-on instead of acting like Sparky and Sugar Queen, and Twinkletoes and Lightning Psycho - ugh! She was not like them! She was Toph, the Blind Bandit.

Bor's footsteps were only several feet away and his heartbeat was slightly increased. He stopped and she felt him inhale deeply, undoubtedly drawing upon the well of courage in his soul.

She didn't give him the chance to start the conversation and thus have the power. "Come on," she gestured to her room flippantly. "Let's get this shit over with." Without waiting for a reply, she entered her room, reclining on her bed - a small stretch of the floor - casually, arms crossed behind her head.

Slowly, ever so slowly, his footsteps echoed closer and he earthbent the door shut, trapping them. "I honestly don't know how to begin this conversation," he began softly.

"It's never stopped you before."

She frowned as he suddenly laughed almost brokenly, "And I think that's the problem." He stood by the window, posture tense. "I've missed you, and that's my fault, isn't it?"

Toph snapped her head to where he stood, "What?"

"I didn't think it through. I was selfish, you know? I had failed to contemplate your feelings on the matter." Bor's fists clenched and Toph had to clench her own fists to keep herself from wrapping her hands around his tightly-wound fists in a gesture of comfort. "I was a dumbass, plain and simple, Toph. And for that, I'm sorry."

"Why are you sorry?" She snapped, feeling vulnerable for some reason. "I'm the one who... who broke your heart."

"Because of my actions, you broke my heart, because of my stupidity." He countered swiftly, whirling towards her, heartbeat steady. He stepped closer and sat across from her slowly, "You told me about your parents and childhood," he said softly and Toph felt cold. "And yet, in hindsight, I was mimicking them despite my vow to never do so." His hand scratched his neck in a familiar gesture she recognized as self-loathing. "Look, Toph, we both made mistakes, me especially. I'm always going to regret the months we spent apart because of my actions, but I don't want to spend any more away from you."

Toph's eyes widened and she shook her rapidly, "No, no, Bor. We already tried this relationship shit and- "

"I love you," his words silenced any other words that were going to pass her lips. "And during these past awful months, I've realized that life without you in it just… it just isn't really worth living. I need you in my life, Toph, and I don't care what role you play. Whether it be my Queen, wife, lover, or… or my friend, it doesn't matter."

"But you have duties you must contend with," she pointed out, refusing to let him see her emotions.

"Then fuck those duties up the ass, Toph." He bound up to her and before she could react, gripped her hands, tenderly stroking the top of her hands with his thumbs. "If need be, I will renounce my claim to Ba Sing Se's throne - and Omashu's, too. If we do get married, we don't need to have children. I will never shield you from anything and cage you from the world; you won't be shackled to my will. I actually think it would be the opposite, but that's beside the point. Having no children isn't a problem for me. I won't lie, though. If that does happen, I will be sad, but it would be more than worth it to have you as my wife. Anju is Queen in Omashu and you know that she and Batsu will have many children. One of their heirs can have Ba Sing Se's throne, Toph. I don't want it if I can't have you."

Despite all of her stubborn pride, several tears spilled down her cheeks at his words. "You can't mean that - you... you just can't."

"But I do, with all my soul, Toph," she felt him swallow and his hands tightened around her own. "I've even spoken with my grandfather about it." Toph's eyes bulged from her sockets and she didn't breathe. "After several minutes of him cursing, in his words, my young, lust-inflamed brain, he said that he wouldn't stop me if that was my desire; in spite of your belief, he does approve of you. And I intend to do just that if that is what it takes to have you in my life, Toph."

She felt the absolute truth in that statement and she felt all the barriers and defenses she had molded for this occasion crumble like sand. She lurched forward and kissed him desperately, pouring all her emotion into the action. After several seconds, she pulled back and kissed him again softly before speaking. "I'm a selfish bitch, aren't I? I was scared, and in my fear, declared an absolute lie. I would bear your children, Bor," she swallowed, "but I'm afraid that… I'll be like my parents. What if our children... what if they... they hate me? What if I... I continue the cycle? What if no matter what I do, I become like them? What if it's inevitable?"

Bor pulled her into his chest and she didn't fight it. "The fact that you have these concerns, Toph, already shows me that that won't ever happen. You would be a great mother, Toph. A little unorthodox, but that's how I fell in love with you. And I guarantee that, if we do have children, they'll adore you just as much as I do."

She sniffed against his chest, "You're quite the sweet-talker, you know. I don't know any woman who could resist those words."

He chuckled and she felt it rumble through his broad chest. "I bet that Azula would be able to resist those words, Toph." She felt a smile spread across her face at his words, knowing that they were the truth. "Speaking of her, how the fuck did that happen, exactly? I mean, Mother of the Air Nomads? My grandfather has been raving about how perfect she is since you guys all arrived a month ago."

"Please, Bor, don't make me remember all of the pussyfooting around those two did!" She hissed against his chest. "Let's just say that by the time they finally did it, I was able to feel it."

"Do you want to spar?" He asked after several seconds, "It's been a while and I've really missed it."

"Fuck, yes!" She jumped to her feet and wiped away the remnants of her tears, the familiarity of their relationship easy to remember. "Let's go, Bor. I'm going to have you begging for mercy!"

She felt his heartbeat increase and he grinned wildly. "Oh, I can't wait to beg you, Toph." She felt him wiggle his eyebrows and hid a smile.

She truly felt better than she had in a long time and it was a major relief, honestly. She had always scorned the idea of marriage and having children, but looking at Bor's smiling face, she realized that she had just been waiting for the right person to come along. And now that she had found him, she didn't intend on letting him go.

XxXxXxXxXxX

That's all for this one! I hope you all enjoyed and, again, I'm sorry for the long wait. It's been a long summer and between starting a job and getting ready for college and actually starting college, it's been difficult to find the time to actually write.

**I hoped you liked that twist about Avatar Boruk being the first to discover lavabending. I honestly think that only an Avatar could ever truly discover new bending techniques thought impossible, or thought of as only a subset of a certain element, like lavabending falsely thought of as a subset of firebending. It's just my opinion because the Avatar has more possible outcomes with 'messing around' with their bending, accidentally doing things thought impossible, than anyone else.

I feel like the Air Nomads as a culture wouldn't worry about large marriage ceremonies like the Fire Nation or Earth Kingdom and even Water Tribes - they wouldn't put much stock into it. If you consummate, which would be the ultimate act of love in their culture, then the two who had done the act would be married. The Air Nomads' culture seemed like this would be a philosophy that the Elders would encourage.

I don't know if you'll agree with me about how earthbending is the weakest of the four elements, but let me explain. All of the other elements have the capacity to be used in a deadly, swift strike that would kill any on the receiving end almost instantaneously. Firebenders can raise one's internal body temperature which can lead to heatstroke, organ failure, brain damage, and even death. A prodigiously skilled/powerful Waterbender can control one's blood under the full moon (not counting Yakone's bloodline right now), causing the heart to burst and so on. Then an Airbender is the most dangerous because any Child of Air can steal air from one's lungs as easily as anything else. They could even increase the air pressure around someone until their head explodes. An Earthbender can't really do something like that. They couldn't bend the iron in somebody's blood because iron is pure metal. Plus, it's been shown that it's pretty much unprecedented for a Waterbender to bloodbend; only the extraordinarily supreme Waterbenders could hope to do it. And the blood is composed of over 90% of water - and it's still insanely difficult! How could an Earthbender hope to control the iron, regardless if it's pure metal, when it's in such small quantities?

The only thing I can think of is that an Earthbender could impale a bender before they could react, but I don't know if rock would necessarily kill someone - a Metalbender could but there are so few in this story because I honestly hated how Legend of Korra had such mediocre benders metalbending. They could shove someone off a cliff, but then a Firebender could jet streams of fire from their limbs to stay alive, a Waterbender could summon a water tornado if near water and it would be utterly pointless to shove an Airbender off a cliff. Earthbenders have more subsets and seem the strongest physically, but their bending is the weakest, in my opinion. If you disagree, that's fine and I understand why you would be of a different mindset than that of myself.

Also, an Airbender, in my opinion, would be the most dangerous warrior to ever face in the world of Avatar. They can kill you from anywhere. They are fast as the wind itself, perhaps even faster, and at their full potential, they can fly without a glider and create hurricane-like gales and city-destroying tornadoes. They are agile and air is everywhere. I mean, can you imagine the Yu Yan Archers as Airbenders? They would be the most feared fighting force in the entire world, capable of slaughtering entire armies. Their arrows would blot out the sun itself! (Props to you if you recognize which movie that 'arrow blotting out the sun' is from.) They would be able to control where and when the arrows land, able to maneuver the arrows around shields and armor. Then imagine an airbending swordsman; able to know where their opponent will strike before their opponent even thinks it. They would be beyond-lethal! There is no place where one could hide from an Airbender except maybe the ocean itself, but even then, I'm not sure. Water has air in it. (You know, H2O? It has an oxygen molecule!) An Airbender's lungs are bred to inhale any air no matter how small or minuscule in quantity. Plus, Aang has shown that Airbenders can hold their breath for a very long time. If powerful enough, an Airbender could survive under the water long enough to catch their prey. They could even create an air bubble. Their only match would be a Waterbender under the ocean, but an Airbender could simply suck the air out of the Waterbender's lungs or water bubble, thus killing them. Air is essential to all life, every species, so can you imagine if the air itself was actually weaponized in Avatar? It would be Zaheer on a whole other level - both physically and mentally. The Airbenders have the potential to be a people of mass destruction. Also, remember what Gyatso was able to do? He was able to slaughter dozens and dozens and piles of Comet-boosted, veteran, warrior Firebenders by himself - and even then, we only saw the skulls of those Firebenders! That's how dangerous and powerful a Master Airbender is; it's how dangerous Aang is if he wanted to be, except infinitely more so because he's the Avatar.

**Ozai finally has his arm back! It took me a really long time to determine how I would re-fit his decapitated arm to his shoulder, but I hope that it at least seems kind of plausible. I know that it isn't truly realistic, but the idea of people bending the elements isn't either, so I hope you can overlook it. Yeah, it is gross for Hama and Ozai to become intimate but it frankly makes sense. Based on the characterization I've done on Ozai, I think he would rape anyone and it shows in this chapter. Hama is little better, honestly. She's pretty far gone and is just as angry as Ozai. The scene is supposed to be quite evil and disgusting because Ozai is vile incarnate, a monster who is irredeemable.

**Dragons are spoken of by King Bumi! I think Dragons would be very powerful and intelligent in Avatar, kind of like an apex predator. Their only rival would be, in my opinion, a blood-lusted or angry Sky Bison. I feel like based on the show's description, Dragons were as feared as they were admired in the world of Avatar. My take on Dragons is very similar to the Dragons of Middle-Earth in The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien. In fact, the Dragons vulnerability being their own underbelly is taken directly from The Hobbit about Smaug.

If Bumi seems like he was beaten too easily by Fire Lord Sozin and Azar, I disagree. Sozin at that point was well over a century old and was more powerful than ever, many years left to his life. He was probably, at that time, the most experienced fighter in the world. Whereas Bumi was still very young - I'd say only around 30-years-old - and hadn't truly come into his own yet in regards to earthbending. Add in a Dragon and Bumi is, in layman's terms, fucked.

**Katara and Zuko finally talk about where their 'thing' is going and marriage comes up. I honestly think Zuko would be more prepared for such a thing, at least in this story. Katara has been pressured, in this story, by her father for several years and she rebelled against his wishes. Whereas Zuko has been under the strain of knowing that he has no heirs to his name save Azula, his sister who was a major war criminal for the Great War and would never be accepted by the other nations, and his uncle. Iroh, if he wanted to, could sire more children, but he doesn't because he would see that as disrespecting Natsumi, his wife and the mother of his beloved son, Lu Ten. Zuko has no son to his name, no heirs who would rightfully claim the Dragon's Throne if he died prematurely. Undoubtedly, he has faced much pressure from the entire Fire Nation to sire heirs, but he has refused to do so with the concubines. He has come to the point where he honestly doesn't give a fuck what the Noble Houses and the major players in the Fire Nation want or think of him.

Then, Katara discovers his history of sleeping with whores. That scene was really hard to write because I honestly didn't know how it should go. Should a rift between them happen again? Should Katara just shrug it off? I chose to do neither. I'm not necessarily a fan of drawing out drama, at least that kind of drama, so I kind of had them resolve it in this chapter. I don't know how that scene felt to some of you, but it was the best I was able to write out. Katara feels betrayed even though the whole thing started before Zuko even met her. I think that that would be a realistic emotion that she would feel in a situation like that.

Also, name-day means a birthday in the world of Avatar. I find that it makes sense. You're given the name on the day you're born.

**Zuko finally masters lightning! I was enraged when, in the Legend of Korra, Zuko didn't show any inclination to shoot some lightning bolts at the Red Lotus in Season 3 of the show. I mean, why would Mako, a kid on the street, and some gangsters in Republic City be able to shoot lighting but not Fire Lord Zuko? I call some major bullshit on that. I think lightning-generation would be a rite of passage for every Fire Royal Family member and immensely rare for any Firebender to be able to accomplish. (The Legend of Korra, in my opinion, made lightning-generation far too accessible for Firebenders. Only the alphas of the pack should be knowledgeable about lightning-generation, let alone capable of unleashing it. In Avatar: The Last Airbender, it seemed that lightning was only a legend, a myth to almost all people in the world, even in the Fire Nation. It's the 'cold-blooded fire' and I doubt many Firebenders would understand the philosophy behind cold blood.) I undoubtedly believe that Fire Lord Sozin could bend lightning, same goes for Fire Lord Azulon - who was, apparently, a prodigy on par with Azula via Ozai's own words in the series. We've seen Iroh do it and invent the redirecting lightning-generation technique - what a badass! I made Ursa capable of shooting lightning because I think she is as much a badass as Azula and Iroh are, but she would hardly ever use it and plus, she's a descendent of Avatar Roku. She's very similar to Azula, so I think it would make sense that she could do it since Azula was shooting lightning from the moment we met her in the show and still uses it often. Then, we come to Ozai. In The Day of Black Sun, with only a sliver of the sun visible behind the moon during the eclipse, Ozai was able to conjure the strongest lightning strike we've ever seen in both series in less than a second. Not even Iroh could do that.

**Hahn returns! Okay, in the show, it didn't make sense that Arnook was never said to be a Waterbender. In the Water Tribes, men are at the top of the chain while women aren't. Benders, just like in the other nations, are ideal and their leader - their Chief - must be a Waterbender. I could understand allowing a single generation to be ruled by a non-bender, but never consecutively! Hahn isn't a bender and would have been the next Chief and now Sokka, a non-bender, will be the next Chief of the entire Water Tribes. By the logic of my argument above for the Northern Water Tribe, that means that Arnook must be a Waterbender. Also, Yue herself never gave any indication to Katara or Sokka that she was a Waterbender which was absurd. She was touched, blessed even by the Moon Spirit! She had to have been given power over water, then. It would be completely illogical to think otherwise.

**Toph and Bor finally reconcile. If you thought that Toph was too emotional, I disagree. It has been shown in the series that Toph is very emotional in her younger years. She just covered it with anger and scorn. As of now, she's still only 20-21 years old. It was shown that she had personal insecurities. She was/is a vulnerable child beneath her tough exterior. She was sheltered her entire childhood by her parents and treated like a fragile doll. Then, she spends several months in the heart of the Great War, being instrumental in defeating Ozai's regime, only for it to end. The Gaang, in this story, separated for almost a decade and, needless to say, a rift grew as a result. Then, Toph was willing to give her parents one more shot, but her parents, despite saying they would change, didn't. She's very jaded on the outside, but inside is the opposite.

Eventually, after some time, I bet that she is waiting for rejection all the time, waiting for those she loves to leave her. She is terrified that if she does have children, she'd become copies of her parents, unwilling to negotiate with her children. Above anything else, she doesn't want to be her parents. Can't really say that I blame her based on her parent's actions.

That's all, everyone! I believe that was everything, but if you have questions, just ask and I'll be happy to answer. Please leave a review and tell me what you thought of it! Again, I apologize for the long wait.

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