Rhythm of the Rain
Chapter Two
By DamageCtrl

All Standard Disclaimers Apply: I do not own Avatar: The Last Airbender or anything related to it.


She loved the dreams, or rather memories, which resurfaced when she slept. The days of freedom where they flew on a six legged bison. The shouts of her brother echoed amongst the clouds as he scampered around the massive saddle after an ingenious lemur. The angelic sound of a young earth bender's laughter as she played a practical joke. The enthusiastic actions of a young Avatar destined for greatness.

She missed the days when she would wake up on the cold hard ground, listening to the snoring of Sokka and the chatter of Momo. A bed was nice. It was comfortable and warm and indoors. But nothing could replace the freedom that came with traveling with her friends.

Had it only been a year ago when she found Aang frozen in a block of ice? It seemed like it was just yesterday.

"Katara!" Sokka's familiar voice carried through the doors of her room. "Hey, Katara, Aang and Toph just got back with the last of the critically wounded! They want to know when you'll head down to the infirmary!"

From beneath a pile of red blankets, one blue eye cracked open. Tiredly, it peeked from her fortress of blankets and pillows. She was in her room and it was...bright? She shoved the blankets down as she sat up in bed. Her eyes darted around the room, confused. Her window didn't face the sun rise. Why was it so bright for so early in the morning?

"Katara!" Sokka pounded on the door once more. "Are you awake?"

"Sokka?" Katara called tiredly. One hand rose and rubbed her sleep laden eyes. "What are you doing up so early?"

"Early?" his voice piped. "Katara, we're about to have lunch downstairs!"

Immediately, her eyes shot open. "What?" She kicked off the blankets as she stumbled off the bed. Sokka stepped back as he heard heavy footsteps heading towards the door. A moment later it was flung open by a tangle haired water bender. "What do you mean lunch? What time is it?"

"Uh...past noon, hello?" Sokka said, gently rapping her forehead with his hand. He looked at her suspiciously. "Is something wrong? You don't usually sleep in."

"I never sleep in!" Katara said as she ran back into her room. "Tell them I'll head right down to the infirmary as soon as I get dressed!"

"Are you sure? Don't you want something to eat?" Sokka asked, concerned. She ignored him as she gathered her clothes and rushed into the adjacent bathroom.

"Unlike you, I don't need to eat!" she shouted. The door to the bathroom slammed closed and Sokka grimaced.

"All right!" he called out loudly. "See you at the infirmary!"

Katara paid no attention to the sound of her doors closing as she turned on the water to the bathtub. She slipped out of her night shirt and left it on the floor before jumping into the half filled tub. Not bothering to wait until it was filled, she sat down and proceeded to bend it all over her until she was clean. She rinsed herself off and quickly dressed. She only stopped in front of the mirror long enough to fix her braid before running out the door.

She cut through the hallways as fast as she could; all the while hoping she wasn't too late in healing the wounded. Stupid, Katara! How could you forget that they were arriving this morning! she mentally groaned. She rounded the corner and swept by another body without seeing who they were.

"Katara!" Zuko jumped out of the way just as Katara shot past him. Her mind seemed to be else where as she ran towards the stairs. "Katara!"

His voice seemed to be heard as he watched her skid to a halt and stumble forward before turning around. "Zuko, good morning! I mean, good afternoon! I can't talk, I have to go to the infirmary!" she gushed out in one breath before turning back around and darting down the stairs.

The scarred Fire Lord let out a heavy sigh and shook his head. He was personally going to see to Katara. He had just returned from the infirmaries and when he couldn't find her there, assumed she was with the Avatar. When Aang said he hadn't seen her, he began to worry. They had been sitting in the rain for quite some time the night before, even after the turtle ducks had retired for the night, and he wondered if she had gotten sick.

Neither had said anything after he moved his hand over hers and held it. He didn't want to move. And they didn't move or even didn't utter a single word. They just sat there. Together. Until he felt her hand slip out from his. He turned his head and saw her swaying to the side. Her eyes were closed and her breathing was even. She had fallen asleep in the rain. He had caught her before she fell into the pond and gently shook her awake.

Still half asleep, the blue eyed brunette murmured something about going to bed and apologized for keeping him outside too long. She carefully stood up on shaky legs and held her hand up to keep the rain from falling on her some more as she walked to the covered pathway. Zuko followed her, wondering if she'd be able to make her way back. Yawning tiredly, she was still awake enough to waterbend her clothes dry. He had bristled at the sight.

No wonder she didn't care about getting wet! It didn't take much to dry her off at all! Regardless, he wondered if the rain had gotten to her before she dried herself off. He looked back down the corridor from which he came and dismissed the thought of her being sick. She was obviously well enough to heal the injured and thus she had just slept in because they had stayed up late.

"Lord Zuko," a guard appeared at the top of the stairs and bowed as he rushed towards the Fire Lord. "The former Governor of Omashu has arrived with his daughter. They are waiting in your hearing room."

Zuko nodded his head. "I'll be right there."


She wiped the sweat off her brow as she walked out of the infirmary room. Behind her, Sokka closed the door. "You did well today, Katara. The doctors said they'll heal fine."

"I'm just glad I was able to get to them today," she admitted tiredly. "Honestly, I don't know what came over me. I never sleep in."

"You were probably just tired," Sokka assured her. "After all, you've been at the infirmary practically every day."

"Yeah...I guess that's it..." Katara stretched her arms up over her head. "I can't wait to get dinner and go to bed."

Sokka nodded his head understandingly. "I completely agree. Nothing works up a hunger like hours staring at bloody wounds, scabs, and burns."

His sister rolled her eyes. "Let's just find Aang and Toph and get some dinner."

"Well, you don't have to look too far!" a girlish voice announced. "What took you guys so long?" Toph exclaimed as she tapped her foot. "I'm starving!"

"Sorry, Toph," Katara smiled weakly. "Since I got a late start, it took me longer than expected. But at least we don't have to wait for food to be served!"

"Of course not, it's been cooling on the table for the last hour!" Toph reached out and Katara took her hand before being tugged forward. "Let's go before Momo eats everything!"

They walked along the corridor towards a small dining room where Katara, Sokka, and Aang, whenever he was in the area, had their meals. As they stumbled through the door, they noticed an addition to the rectangular table. Aang was seated to one side of the table, popping grapes into his mouth while Momo lounged beside him munching on a peach.

Directly across from him, at the head of the table, was Zuko, who had already started on his meal. Katara came to a stop by the table as Toph let her go and took one of the seats. She looked at Zuko with surprise. He never ate with them. He had dinners with his Uncle in a different room.

Maybe he wanted to eat with you this time... Katara shook the thought out of her head and forced her blush down.

"Hey..." Sokka frowned, obviously displeased. "What's he doing here?" He asked, pointing at the Fire Lord. On the rectangular table, there was a wide spread of fruits, vegetables, and bread for the vegetarian Aang, and some meat dishes for Sokka and the others. An elegantly arranged bouquet of greenery was set in the center for added color.

Zuko didn't bother acknowledging him as he lifted his chopsticks to his mouth. "I live here," he reminded him bluntly. "And you could be a little more courteous considering that I'm letting stay here and eat my food."

Sokka scowled for a split second, but shrugged and took a seat next to Toph. "Katara," He called over his shoulder as he reached for the nearest piece of meat. "Aren't you going to sit?"

"Huh? Oh, right..." Katara shook her head slightly and took the last remaining seat across from her brother. She took a long gulp of water from her cup before reaching over for some dumplings. "So...Zuko..." She suddenly felt warm. "What brings you to eat with the peasants today?" she began, trying to sound casual.

"I was hungry and I walked by. The food was already prepared, so I decided to eat." he replied, without so much as glancing at her.

"Fair enough!" Sokka said before tearing into some food.

"Katara, how was the infirmary?" Aang asked cheerfully as he sat up straight.

"I think we made a lot of progress today, Aang," she replied with a small smile. "Twenty people came and I managed to heal the severe injuries on the most serious patients. I can probably do more tomorrow."

"That's good to hear," Aang beamed a wide smile. "They were really in pain on the boat ride here. I told them that you'd be able to help."

"As long as they let me help, I'll help." Katara asserted. She slowly chewed on her food and Toph looked up from her meal.

"You don't sound too good, sugar queen," Toph frowned. "Didn't you get enough sleep last night? You did sleep in."

"Yes, I'm sure I got enough sleep..." Katara trailed off. She couldn't stop her eyes from darting over to Zuko. "I just went to bed late last night and that compounded with the work I've been doing at the infirmary, I'm just a bit drained."

"Maybe you should take a break," Sokka suggested. "You're always at the infirmary or checking patients. You deserve it."

"You don't want to end up like I did," Aang told her. "One minute you're walking, the next you wake up in a bed with a lemur on your head."

Katara cracked small smile. "It's not that bad yet, Aang. But thanks. As soon as I get healing started on the last of the seriously injured patients tomorrow, I'll take a day off and get some rest. How's that?"

Sokka, Toph, and Aang all chorused with approval while eating and Katara chuckled. "Hey, Snoozeles, pass the bread."

Sokka let out a muffled reply as he moved a tray of bread across the table to Toph. Katara's blue eyes went wide. "That reminds me, hand me two pieces." She held out her hands and Aang air bended the tray towards her as soon as Toph took out a piece for herself.

As she picked out the two smallest pieces, she didn't notice Zuko eyeing her. "Still feeding those turtle ducks?" Aang asked. Golden eyes narrowed into slits as he looked at Aang suspiciously. How did he know?

"Yep," Katara nodded. "Every night. They're really familiar with me now."

"You've been talking about those things since I last came here," Toph said. "You have to let me hold one before I leave."

"They're really cute, Toph," Katara said. "There are five babies and their parents. I'm going to feed them tonight."

"Can I come?" Aang and Toph chorused at the same time. Katara's eyes widened with surprise and Zuko paused in mid bite.

To their left, Sokka let out a snort. "No way...that's Katara's 'alone time'. Last time I asked if I could go, she bit my head off."

Unseen by the rest of the group, Zuko raised an eyebrow. His eyes moved back over to Katara and he smirked slightly. Her tan cheeks were flushing with a rosy color as she shot her brother a glare.

"I did not bite your head off. I'm just saying it's my alone time. But why don't we drop by after dinner and we can get a look at the babies swimming around," Katara offered. "I'll try to get one for you, Toph."

The younger girl put on a wide grin from ear to ear. "So what are you going to do with the turtle ducks after, anyway?"

"What do you mean after?" Katara asked. She placed some food in her mouth and looked at her brother curiously.

Sokka swallowed a piece of meat and shrugged. "You know, after they're fattened up," Across from him, Katara's face paled, knowing where his train of thought was going. "Do you plan to roast them or have they sautéed-?"

A leaf from the plant center piece before him burst into flames and he let out a yelp as he pushed back on the chair and fell over. Aang's eyes widened as Toph looked around, unsure of what had just happened. Katara gasped as she whirled around. "Zuko, what was that for?" she demanded.

Zuko's eyes were focused on the fallen Water Tribe warrior with a piercing glare. "Don't you dare touch those turtle ducks." he said in a low voice.

Sokka lifted his head up and looked across the table at Zuko, as if he had just grown another head. "Relax! I didn't say we were going to eat them!"

"Zuko," Katara frowned. She was kneeling by her brother's side, helping him up. "Sokka just has one train of thought and that's food. Food and meat are synonymous with him. He didn't mean that he was actually going to hunt them down!"

"They're just turtle ducks..." Sokka grumbled as he fixed his seat and sat back down.

"They are the last family of turtle ducks on the palace grounds," Zuko growled. He gritted his teeth to keep from threatening Sokka. "They are in the royal quarter's private gardens. You are not to disturb them." He added in an even voice.

"Right...right..." Sokka nodded and Katara returned to her seat. Aang noticed the tension in the room and grab Momo's tail. The lemur made a trilling noise as he looked at Aang questioningly. With a gentle tug on his tail, Momo let out a squeal and dropped the peach.

"Oh! Will you look at Momo! He's excited to go to see the turtle ducks, too, aren't you, boy?" Aang asked earnestly. The lemur scampered across the table and sat beside Katara as he snatched another peach and bit into it.

"We'll head over there in a second, Momo." Katara assured him as she patted him on the head.

Dinner was over soon and Aang and his friends wandered out the door with Katara telling them how she named all the turtle duck babies. Zuko leaned back against his seat and wiped his mouth with a napkin. Perhaps he had gone a little too far setting something so close to Katara's brother on fire. Then again...he liked turtle ducks.

"Zuko," Iroh's shadow fell across the door and he let out a heavy sigh. "So this is where you have been. You were not at the main dining room."

"This was just more convenient," Zuko replied coolly. "Have you eaten already, Uncle?"

"Yes, I have. Alone," Iroh added with a slight pout. "This poor old man had no one else to eat with or talk to. It's boring talking to one's self, you know. There I was, alone in the room while you were here with the company of the Avatar and two lovely young ladies."

Zuko sighed. "I'm sorry I didn't invite you to eat with us, Uncle."

Iroh chuckled and shook his head. "I am just joking. I enjoyed the meal alone. But I did want to talk to you about your decision."

"On Mai?"

"Who else?" Iroh said. "I'm very proud of you, Zuko, for pardoning her and giving her back her title. Her family was greatly appreciative of the gesture."

"Yes, I know...her father already promised all his support to me for doing this."

"And that is all well and good, but remember the other nobles," Iroh reminded him. Zuko narrowed his eyes and looked at his Uncle warily. "You now have that family's endorsement...but there are still many other nobles, some of whom had war mongering ties to the war and still view you as a banished prince."

Zuko let out a heavy breath and threw his arms in the air. "What do you expect me to do, Uncle? I already pardoned the remaining nobles for any association they had under my father or my sister. I believe I acted fairly and justly on this."

"And you have, Zuko, you have," Iroh agreed. "However...something was brought to light when I was speaking with Mai's mother outside the hearing room."

"And what is that?"

Iroh hesitated for a moment. "I want you to hear this from me before rumors start to swirl around you," the old general began. "Marriage."

Zuko stared at his Uncle incredulously. "Marriage? I'm seventeen years old!" he shouted, exasperated.

"And you are old enough to get married," Iroh pointed out. "As the new Fire Lord, you are the most powerful noble in the land. Now that things are settling down, nobles will soon begin offering you their daughters."

Zuko's eyes narrowed. He had forgotten that little part of the noble life; political marriages. "No," he pulled away from the table and stood up, shaking his head. "It's too early. The nation isn't stable enough for me to even be thinking of a wife."

Iroh nodded understandingly. "I agree."

Zuko sighed and turned around to face the old man. "Then why did you tell me?"

"Because you should know," Iroh stressed. He put his hands on his nephew's shoulders firmly. "Be prepared, Zuko. The Fire Nation craves stability and there are many that believe that one needs a wife for stability to be shown."

Zuko took several deep breaths and nodded. His Uncle was right. If he, as the Fire Lord, did not appear to have a stable personal life, they would not believe his rule over an entire nation would be stable. "I...I understand, Uncle."

Iroh patted his shoulders gently as he let him go. Zuko headed out the door and heard his Uncle call him back once more. "Zuko," The young Fire Lord stopped at the doorway. "Love your country, but do not betray your heart."


Toph let out a pleased laughed as a baby turtle duck nipped at her finger tips. "Their beaks feel funny!"

"Yeah, funny..." Sokka snorted as he rubbed his wounded hand. He had been trying to catch a turtle duckling when he slipped and fell into the water; his hand flew out and nearly crushed one of the babies. As soon as he sat up, he was met with an enraged mother turtle duck quacking and pecking incessantly. Now, his hand throbbed with a dull pain from the bill of one of the parents.

"Well, we told you not to get too close to the water," Katara told him confidently. "But did you listen...?"

"No!" Toph and Aang concluded. Sokka rolled his eyes. Above them, Momo dashed through the branches of the trees, occasionally sticking his head out to look around before diving back into the leaves and scurrying around some more.

"Yeah, well, you almost did crush her baby." Aang reminded him he sat on one of the rocks a few paces from them. Toph and Katara were seated on the flat stone slab.

"It was an accident!"

"Well, the mommy turtle duck doesn't know that." Katara grinned. Sokka groaned stood up.

"Forget it! I'm going to bed!" he announced. "I'll see you all tomorrow!" He waved his good hand in the air as he headed back to the palace.

"I should get to bed, too," Toph yawned. "I've been up since dawn. Night!" She pushed herself from the stone seat and followed behind Sokka.

"Night!"

"Good night!" Aang and Katara chorused. They watched the blind earthbender disappear into the palace. Katara looked over at Aang. "Sure you're not tired yet?"

"Nope!" Aang beamed a wide smile and jumped over towards her. He landed gracefully beside her and seated himself down on the stone. "We were on a ship this time, so I didn't have to stay awake the whole night flying."

"I see," Katara nodded. "So what do you think of the turtle ducks?"

"They're cool," Aang said. "They sure like to eat. Is bread all they eat?"

"No, they eat aquatic plants, too," Katara replied. "That's why I said to toss the balls of bread into the water so they'll go under for it, like they're going under to get plants."

"Oh..." Aang nodded. He turned his head towards Katara and studied the outline of her face. Her hair was in a loose braid with many strands coming out from its plait. She looked tired and worn, but relaxed as she watched the fowl swim around the small pond. "Hey, Katara...?"

"Yes, Aang?"

"Why are you in the royal quarter's private garden?" Katara stiffened where she sat.

"What?"

"Zuko said this was the royal quarter's private garden," Aang said, repeating the young Fire Lord's words from dinner. "I was told that only members of the royal family could come here."

Her hand unconsciously tugged on the hems of her shirt. "Actually...you're right," Katara admitted. "I didn't know and was wandering around. I saw the turtle ducks here so I kept coming. Zuko actually caught me and called me on it."

Aang looked slightly surprised. "And he let you stay?"

Katara paused for a moment and then nodded. "He said that his Uncle probably told the entire staff that we had free access everyone in the palace, so no one said anything or tried to stop me when I came out here."

"Oh..." Aang mused. "That was nice of him to let you stay."

Katara smiled and gently leaned towards Aang, bumping her arm against his in a playful gesture. "You're the one who said he was a good guy."

"What can I say," Aang smiled. "I'm a good judge of character." The duo laughed quietly for a while longer before Aang stretched out his arms. "Well, I'm about due for some sleep."

"Already?" Katara asked, genuinely disappointed. "I thought you said you weren't tired."

Aang shrugged. "Well, I kind of want to check on Appa before I go to bed," he admitted. He looked up at the tree above them. "Momo! Come on, boy! Let's visit Appa!"

The white and black lemur scurried down a branch and jumped on to Aang's bald head. He laughed Momo's tail brushed against his nose. "Good night, guys!" Katara waved and Aang and Momo waved back before they dashed back into the palace. Katara sighed and fell back against her arms. She looked up at the clear skies above her.

Suddenly, she wished it were raining again. She closed her eyes and smiled to herself as she remembered the warmth of his hand holding hers as the cool droplets washed over their bodies. His hand was rough and calloused from years of fighting and practice. She remembered his skill with swords and then that blue mask he wore when he was trying to be covert.

Aang sincerely believed that he was a good person. Still, she and Sokka had both been wary of him when he joined their little group. It had been a long journey, but in the end, she had believed he was a friend. They have might not have been close. After all, fire and water were polar opposites. But part of her felt that he was glad they were around. That, for the first time, he had real friends.

Her eyes opened and she looked up at the night sky. When had she started to look at him as more than an overbearing, spoiled, stubborn, fire bending comrade in arms?

When he tied her to a tree? Admittedly, she found that sort of confidence attractive, but the fact that she was being held hostage overwhelmed any attraction. However, whenever they did meet, she admired his strength and his skill with fire bending. She understood how much work went into mastering a bending style and he was proficient. He was passionate about his country and his goals. He had determination and strength.

Even when he was a fugitive, he had passion and drive. Fighting along side of him against his sister felt right. They felt like a complete team. And the more she saw of him, the more time she spent with him, the more she came to understand where he was coming from. She learned to respect his space and where to draw the line with her taunts. It took Sokka a little while longer to figure that out.

Over the last few weeks, spending a few moments every night beside him without being at each other's throats was... nice. It was different from spending time with Sokka or Aang or any one else. And she had begun to feel that he enjoyed their shared silence, even if he wouldn't admit it. Katara lifted her hand against her chest and cupped it against her.

As foolish and girlish as it sounded, she didn't want the other night to end.

"What happen to your little friends?" She jumped in her seat and snapped her head around to look at the new comer.

A richly dressed body joined her on the slab of stone and looked down at the family of turtle ducks below. Zuko casually fixed his robes so they didn't drag and Katara smiled slightly before following his gaze. "They got tired...went to bed."

"Shouldn't you be doing the same?"

"I had plenty of sleep, thanks." Katara reached into her pocket and pulled out the last roll of bread. She held it out in front of him and Zuko looked at it, confused.

"I thought you would've fed them all of it already."

She shook her head and motioned for him to take it. "You know the rules. One piece for me. One piece for you. I already shared mine with the others."

Zuko carefully took the piece from his hands. "I didn't know we had rules."

"Well...we don't want to over feed them," Katara smiled and drew her knees up to her chest as she wrapped her arms around them. He tore the pieces in his hands and tossed them into the water at the awaiting turtle ducks. "You scared my brother back there."

"I just didn't want him to get any ideas."

"Hmm..." Katara rested her chin on her knees. "Or you just grew attached to them."

For a moment, he didn't respond. Did she understand that the turtle ducks weren't the only thing he had grown attached to in those late night meetings? "My mother used to feed them. I would join her sometimes," he said as he watched the two babies conk shells as they dove for the same piece. "My sister would take a whole piece of bead and throw it at them."

"I bet they didn't like her," Katara grinned. He nodded his head and she looked back at the animals. "So these really are the last in the palace."

"I don't know what happened to the rest...I never thought about it but their numbers started lessening after my mother vanished. When I went into exile, I don't even remember seeing a single one."

She looked thoughtful for a moment. "Maybe they were waiting for you to come back."

The corners of his lips tugged up in a small smile. He tossed the remaining piece of bread on the water and slowly turned his head to look at her. He never could understand how she was able to keep her wits about her, even during the most dire of situations. She was passionate and temperamental and would occasionally loose her temper, but when she was needed, she was there. Tired and worn from an exhausting day healing ungrateful soldiers, surrounded by sickness and pain, she still sat there, idly watching the pond with clear blue orbs. She was strong.

"Maybe you're right," he agreed softly as he turned his head back towards the garden before them. "Maybe they were waiting."

Soft, tan hands carefully slid over his and he closed his eyes gratefully. He turned his hand over, clasping hers in his as he brought her hand up to his mouth. His other hand moved to cup her hand between both of his. A hot breath caressed her skin, sending a wave of warmth through her body. Surprised, she turned to look at him, watching with silent awe as his lips gently brushed over her knuckles and remained there for one long, breathless moment.

Her chest suddenly felt constricted as she watched two golden eyes open. "Zuko..."

"Don't say anything," his voice was a quiet order, but at the same time, laced with a small plea. "Nothing needs to be said." he assured her. Her eyes softened as her fingers moved to hold on to his hand. Her eyes dropped to the ground and looked around. The movements on the water's surface before her caught her attention as the she watched the two adult turtle ducks swim closer to each other.

The darker colored female craned her neck beneath her mate's head and seemed to rest there as the other rested his head atop hers. Katara glanced up at her companion briefly as she bit her bottom lip and chewed on it thoughtfully. Her eyes lowered and settled on his hands. Strong, large hands held hers, almost as if by necessity. She swallowed down her fears and slid a little closer, until her thighs touched his.

His body went rigid against her and her hand felt his squeeze down on it a little harder. Before he could move away, he felt something warm and heavy rest tiredly against his shoulder. The sensation was foreign to him and he looked down. Brown locks of hair glistened in the moonlight as strands swept across his shoulder. He could see her eyes turned else where, avoiding his gaze as she leaned against him.

"Nothing needs to be said," she repeated quietly. "Right?"

He found his body relaxing as he grew used to the feeling of her weight against him. The young Fire Lord carefully rested his head against hers and brought her hand up to his lips once more.

She felt him rest his lips against the back of her hand and the hot breath that escaped his mouth and wrapped around her fingers. "Right..." he whispered as he pulled her hand a few millimeters away."Nothing at all."


Large gray eyes lowered sadly as he watched the angel who had awoken him rest her head against the Fire Lord who had fought by their side. And it hurt...so much. He had liked her since he opened his eyes and saw her above him. He had admired her greatly, adored her. He would've given the world to see her smile. Then why did it hurt so much to see her happy with someone else?

Aang turned around, tearing his eyes away from the silent couple sitting beneath the shadows of a tree. He clutched his staff against his chest tightly and quietly sulked back into the palace. He had known something was happening beyond friendship the moment Zuko asked if he had seen Katara that morning. The young Avatar tried to brush it off as curiosity or necessity since the group of injured soldiers from the Earth Kingdom had arrived.

Then Zuko showed up at dinner and joined them rather than eating with his Uncle else where as he usually did. And the turtle ducks that Katara adored meant something to him as well. When he realized that she was allowed to wander in the royal quarters, Aang made the connection. But nothing cemented it until he saw Katara reach for his hand and Zuko kiss hers.

"Every night," a low, solemn voice said in the darkness. "He has been meeting her out there to feed the turtle ducks."

Aang closed his eyes. When did you realize she was so wonderful, Zuko? Do you know how amazing she is? "How long?"

Iroh stepped out of the shadows and looked over the Avatar, towards the gardens. "A month...maybe more," the old general admitted. "They talk sometimes, but mostly, they just sit there without saying anything. Rain or clear skies, it doesn't matter. One will come to the other dutifully."

"He's a lucky guy..." Aang said sadly as he looked down at the stone floors. "Very lucky..." The airbender silently passed the old man.

"How long?" Iroh asked as Aang walked passed him. He paused in mid step and closed his eyes.

"Since the moment I opened my eyes."

Iroh nodded his head. "You are strong, Avatar Aang."

"No..." the boy whispered. He continued his long walk back to his room alone. "I'm not."


"Already?" Katara looked saddened as Aang gave her a smile.

"Yep!" he announced cheerfully. "You know how it is. I'm needed back in the Earth Kingdom. Everything is under control here, but there's still some chaos going on along the old occupied towns."

Katara sighed heavily and poked the food on her plate. "But you just got here..." she trailed off, disappointed.

"its okay, Katara," Aang assured her. "I'll come visit again!"

She lifted her head up and gave him a sad smile. "I might not be here the next time you'll come."

"What?" Aang's head shot up and he couldn't help but glance down the table at Zuko. The Fire Lord didn't react in anyway and Aang wondered if he knew. He looked back at Katara questioningly. "Why not?"

"Don't you remember?" Sokka said as he took a break from chewing. "As soon as Katara is done healing the serious injuries of the soldiers here, we're sailing back to the South Pole."

"They need all the waterbenders they can get down there," Katara reminded him. "Master Pakku and the others can't stay there forever. Besides, it's my home."

Aang looked back at Zuko hesitantly. "Is this okay?"

The black haired Lord lifted his gaze and frowned. "Of course it is. She'll finish her job and leave. That's what she was here for."

"But you'll come to the South Pole and visit, right, Aang?" Katara asked, enthusiastically. "You, too, okay Toph?"

"No way," Toph said as she wrinkled her nose. "It's way too cold. And everything is frozen water, anyway. I'll stick to nice solid ground, thank you very much."

Katara chuckled and continued eating. Aang's eyes darted from Katara to Zuko. It was as if nothing had happened the all those night before. As if he hadn't held her hand and she hadn't rested her head against his shoulder. For Aang, it had been nearly a painstaking week since he had first witness their affections first hand. Like Iroh had said, every night they came to each other and Aang had seen it every night he had been there.

He had gone to the gardens, hiding in the shadows of the palace halls in the distance, and watched. He had hoped that it wasn't true, but every night, Zuko would arrive and sit beside Katara. They would exchange a few words, feed, the ducks and then drift into silence. The subtle movements of their bodies; his hand holding hers, her leg brushing against his, her head resting on his shoulders...There was something more than just mutual friendship.

But she deserved it, Aang sincerely believed. For that short year, he was the center of her world. She traveled everywhere with him, reassured him when he needed it, taught him what she knew, held him comfortingly when he needed to be held. She loved him, too...just not in the same way. Katara had done so much for him. He just wanted her to be happy. Even if it wasn't with him. She deserved to be loved.

And that night, he had come to the decision that he should leave and continue is work. Katara would provide the proper support for Zuko in the Fire Nation in his place. Until she said she was leaving.

"Hey...Katara?"

"What is it, Aang?"

"Do you think I can feed the turtle ducks just once more before I go?"

"Sure," she agreed readily. "But I'm not letting you take one with you as a pet."

His smile fell with mock disappointment. "Aww..."

A few hours later, Aang sat by Katara on the stone once more as they watched the turtle ducks chase each other in little circles. Katara was taking a break from the infirmary. From the dampness of her shirt that she hadn't bothered drying, she had some finished a healing session.

"How come you're leaving?" Aang said suddenly. Katara blinked and looked at him questioningly.

"Because I don't live here," she replied. A small smile graced her face. "I'm a waterbender of the Water Tribe. I belong in the ice and snow at the South Pole."

"Yeah..." Aang trailed off. "But you're needed here to. For healing and stuff."

"Most of the serious injuries have been taken care of," she shrugged. "The doctors here can take over from there."

"But..." Aang bit his lower lip and scanned the gardens. "Isn't there something here for you?"

She went quiet. Aang watched as her eyes lowered and her lips fall into a line. "No," she asserted in a low voice. "There's nothing for me here. Nothing can be here."

Aang studied her face, confused. "I don't...understand..." What about Zuko? What about the turtle ducks? His heart clenched in his chest and he ignored it.

Katara closed her eyes and shook her head slowly. "I don't belong here, Aang," she explained wearily. "They are not my people; they would not accept me living amongst them."

"But Katara-"

"Every day, Aang," Katara sighed as she lifted her head and looked at the sky. "Every day, I go to the infirmaries to heal and every day, soldiers tell me that they would rather die than get help from me. They think I'm going to kill them, Aang. They don't trust me...the only reason they put up with me is because of you, Zuko, and Iroh. Otherwise, I'd just be another lowly Water Tribe peasant."

"That's not true!" Aang exclaimed. She smiled at him sadly. "You're not some lowly peasant, you're Katara! You're strong and smart and you deserve to be respected! They just don't understand!"

"Then a lot of people don't understand," she concluded. She turned her head away. "This isn't my home. I don't belong here. Even if I wanted to stay, many soldiers wouldn't want to be helped by me. I do miss home, Aang. I miss the snow and the cold weather...even the penguins," she added with a small laugh. "I belong there... where I'm needed."

"Katara..."

She took a deep breath and then exhaled. Pasting on a bright smile, she stood up and brushed off her pants. "I better get back to the infirmary," she said as enthusiastically as she could. "I want to get as much done so I can get out early and see you off."

The waterbender turned and headed back for the palace. "Katara!" Aang called out. She stopped half way to the steps. "Do you really want to leave?" He asked in a quieter voice.

Her eyes closed and she clenched her hands beside her. No... "Yes," she replied, keeping her back to Aang. She didn't see his hopeful face take on a look of disappointment. "There is no future for me in the Fire Nation."


He stood to the side as he watched Katara and Sokka wave to the bald headed Avatar and their blind friend that had to be dropped off in Gaoling.

"Zuko! Good luck with everything!" Aang called from his seat on the back of the bison's neck.

The Fire Lord merely lifted his hand up in a small wave as a gust of wind from the bison's ascent washed over the area. Just a few steps in front of him, Katara jumped up and down with her hands in the air, waving energetically as the giant beast flew into the setting sun, towards the Earth Kingdom.

He had heard what she said that afternoon with the Avatar. He had been walking to his room, which over looked the gardens, and heard her telling her friend her reasoning.

"There is no future for me in the Fire Nation."

Her words felt like a slap in the face. No future? What about the turtle ducks in the pond? The doctors who wanted her to stay? What about him? He ripped his eyes away from the young woman laughing with her brother as the aching in his chest grew stronger.

"Zuko, are you coming inside or not?" Her voice flooded his thoughts, as they had done much of the time recently. He looked up and saw Sokka heading back up the stairs to the palace and Katara waiting for him on the first step. She smiled welcomingly and his eyes narrowed.

"I'm going to take a walk." he said coldly. Zuko turned sharply and headed into the courtyard. Katara's smile slowly fell from her face and she furrowed her eyebrows.

"Katara!" her brother called.

"Coming, Sokka!" She looked over her shoulder one last time before running up after her brother.

Zuko didn't turn back. He kept walking and walking until he found himself in the training courtyard. The sun had already set and nothing but a few guards wandered the perimeter, by the walls.

How dare she? How could she lead him on like that? Holding his hand...leaning against him? He had willing let her get close to him, allowed her to rest against him and held her hands through the rain. Even told her things he wouldn't have ever dreamed to telling her. He had taken pleasure in spending time with her! And she took it all for nothing and was ready to leave. As if all those nights together were worthless to her.

Zuko threw his arms to the side as flames burst from his fisted hands. His head flew back as he let out a primal, frustrated yell into the night. The air around him sizzled as he let his anger spill forth; consuming him as he tried to forget about the pain he felt when he heard those words escape her lips. Guards and soldiers who were standing to the sides, watched with awe as their Fire Lord threw his outer robes to the ground carelessly and began sending flame after flame into the empty space before him. Soon, the courtyard was a swirl of fire dancing around a sweat drenched body.

And all the way across the palace grounds, sitting on a stone slab, sat a lone waterbender holding two pieces of bread in her hands while waiting patiently. She smiled as she watched the turtle ducks circle before her.

"Not yet," she scolded them lightly as a giddy feeling coursed through her body. "We have to wait for Zuko."

The turtle ducks quacked, as if understanding and continued to play amongst each other. Katara looked up at the clear sky and sighed contently. She would miss this moment the most when she left. Her heart ached at the mere thought and she shook her head to push the thought out of her mind. She wasn't gone yet. She was still there and she would enjoy her time alone with him. Because you'll never have a chance to be with him again...

Katara closed her eyes tightly. Just a few minutes longer and he would appear. Minutes turned into an hour and then one hour turned into several. Katara remained in her spot, her eyes growing heavy with sleep. Just a little longer.... Her body fell across her seat, dropping the bread in her hands beside her.

For the first time since he had caught her feeling turtle ducks in the rain, Zuko didn't show up.


"This is where you've been the entire night?" Iroh's voice had a distinct sound of disapproval and annoyance in it as Zuko sat on the steps before the court yard, shirtless and still glistening with sweat. His eyes were focused directly ahead of him, at the crescent shaped moon in sky. A faint glow of gold was brimming in the horizon, signaling the arrival of the dawn. "Zuko! Are you listening to me?"

"Sorry, Uncle," Zuko said. He drew his eyes away from the sky and looked back at his discarded robes. "I'll go change." He mumbled as he stood up. He bent down to gather his clothes.

"Forget about your clothes!" Iroh shouted. "What were you thinking - staying up and firebending all night? It's already morning!"

"I just felt the need to do some practice-"

"Did you feel the need to leave a cold young woman sleeping by the pond as well?" Zuko's head snapped up.

His eyes narrowed as he locked eyes with his Uncle. "What? What are you talking about?"

"Go and see for yourself!" Iroh said as he pointed towards the palace. Zuko slowly ascended the stairs and before long, he was running down the halls of the palace. He didn't care who saw him or who got in his way; Katara was asleep in the pond!

"Are you crazy?" Zuko hissed to himself as he ran. What was she thinking? Pressure collected at his chest as he approached the royal quarters.

She was waiting for him. His eyes widened with realization. And he hadn't shown up.

"Katara, you stubborn fool..." Zuko rounded the corner and ran out into the gardens. The chill morning air cooled his heated skin as he looked around the private gardens. He couldn't see her. He felt his heart quicken in his chest as an onset of worries reached him. Where was she? What happened to her? Guilt gnawed at him. He could already see Sokka attacking him for whatever happened to Katara. And the Avatar...what would he do if he found out?

He jumped over the railing and made a beeline for the pond.

Nothing.

His eyes narrowed, confused as he looked around the garden. The turtle ducks were roosting in their nest at the far end of the pond. But other than that, there was no sign of Katara.

Uncle... Zuko gritted his teeth as let out a growl and he punched the tree. His hit vibrated through its trunk and sent leaves falling on to the surface of the water as Zuko stormed back to the covered walkway and headed for his room. Cursing his Uncle for such a low joke, Zuko pushed his doors opened and came to a complete halt.

Brown hair cascaded over red silk sheets, the finest in the country. Blue eyes were closed as soft, full pink lips were parted. Warm, even breaths escaped from them. The thick red comforter covered her body as she laid in the center of his massive bed, sleeping soundly.

"Your room was the closest," Iroh explained behind him. "She's not heavy, but I'm not that young any more."

Zuko closed his eyes tightly. "She was there?" he asked, if only to confirm his suspicions.

"Waiting all night."

I don't understand... Zuko lowered his head. "I'm sorry Uncle."

"Your apologies go to her, not me," the old man rebuffed. "I suggest you apologize the second she wakes up...and here..." Zuko turned around just as Iroh tossed him a small cloth bag. "There were these pieces or bread by her when I found her this morning."

He felt as if he had been slapped once more, only this time he deserved it. "Thank you, Uncle." Iroh gave his nephew a nod of his head and retreated down the hall.

Zuko turned back to the sleeping young woman on his bed and slowly approached her. He closed the doors behind him and dropped the packet of bread on the nearest table. Hesitantly, he made his way towards this large canopy bed and stopped right over the side.

"What took you so long?" Her voice was cracked and dry. He grimaced at the sound and looked around for some water. "Zuko..." A tan hand reached out from under the blanket and he found himself reaching to meet it. His hand wrapped around hers tightly. "The turtle ducks didn't get fed..."

"I'm sorry." he whispered as he sat by her bedside and brought her hands to his lips once more.

"Are we going to go feed them...?" she asked tiredly. Zuko closed his eyes and nodded.

"Yes...tonight."

"Promise?" Two tried blue eyes slowly blinked open.

"I promise." he swore.

"Don't be late," she mumbled, a hint of annoyance in her voice. "I'm not going to wait up for you again..." He smiled weakly and squeezed her hand. Her lips slowly fell into a small frown. "Zuko...why didn't you come?"

Yet another slap in the face. Zuko looked down at her and shook his head. "Are you blind?" he said, in the most arrogant voice he could summon. "I came, didn't I? I'm sitting right here, so I did come. I'm just late."

She smiled slightly as her eyes closed once more. "I like it here..." she mumbled deliriously as she snuggled deeper into the bed."It's warm..."

Zuko closed his eyes and took a deep breath. "Then stay."

"I can't..."

His eyes opened and looked at her with a partially confused and partially annoyed expression. "Why? If you like it here, then stay. It's that's simple."

"No, Zuko..." she whispered out breathily."You don't understand..."

"What is there to understand?" Zuko snapped. "I don't see why you're making it so complicated-"

"Zuko," Katara's hand squeezed his to get his attention. "I am needed at the South Pole...Just like I told Aang."

You also told him something else... He accused. He released her hand and gently tucked it back beneath the blanket. "You're tired. Get some sleep." He ordered. He scooted to the edge of the bed and stood up.

"Where are you going?" she called out tiredly.

He reached back as he walked away and tugged the chord that bound his hair back. He ran one hand through his damp hair and headed towards the door. "Go to sleep, Katara," He said as he opened on the doors. "There is nothing for you here." He added in a low voice, unable to contain the bitterness. The door closed and Katara felt something warm slide down her cheeks as she laid there.

"But I want there to be..."


A.N. - And so ends chapter two. Thank you to the reviewers and yes, this is a Zutara. :) However, there will be elements of a one sided Maiko. Once again, thank you for reading. I hope it's not too long or boring or, in some cases, moving too fast. Thanks again!