Blazing Crystal: Rewrite!

by faithy waithy

Crystal is the twin sister of Sokka, and older sister of Katara. She has always believed that firebenders are cruel and heartless beasts, especially after being burned by one as a child. However, that all changes when she meets a certain Fire Nation Prince. Join Crystal on her journey as she learns about the world, grows stronger, and falls in love. *Romance. Crystal (OC) X Zuko.*

48. My Reflection

Chapter 48: My Reflection

Crystal POV

Moving my hand through the air absentmindedly, I let the thick fog before me dance around my fingertips as I leaned forward against the side of Appa's saddle. I was so thankful the Water Tribe Warriors had helped us construct a new one. Katara kept the fog over us as we traveled forward through the enemy's territory. While we were all anxious about being completely surrounded by the Fire Nation, I was excited to see new sights and lands. I was especially interested in seeing the world Zuko had grown up in. Of course, currently the only one seeing anything was Aang who steered Appa along. Momo slept on Zuko's lap who pet him absently, while Sokka looked over a map. Toph was lying back with boredom, ready to land so she could see again.

"I wonder how much farther the outer island is," Katara thought aloud. "I feel like we should've gotten there by now."

Zuko answered. "Usually I'd be able to tell you if we were on a ship, but Appa travels much faster so I don't really know. From Roku's Temple to the mainland, usually it's a day trek by boat. We left the melted temple at sunset and it's sunrise, so if anything we should be getting there soon."

Toph added, "At least Sokka's not steering us, because if he were it would become a three day trip."

Sokka defended himself. "I'm great with directions!"

Aang chimed in up front, "He did help us get to the North Pole."

"It's the North Pole. You just go north. Not that hard," Katara commented.

Zuko sighed, and I looked over at him with question. The rest of the group fell silent in curiosity too. He was surprised when he saw the sudden attention he was getting. He looked at the eyes on him with a start, asking, "What?"

"You sighed," Toph answered. "What's up, Sparky?"

Zuko grimaced, looking over at me briefly and then back to Momo in his lap. "I was just remembering those long weeks of chasing you all up north. I was so determined to catch the Avatar and became blind to everything else…" He hung his head. "You all must've been exhausted constantly running from me."

Katara frowned. "Well, I do admit that you didn't make our life very easy having to constantly stay on alert and keep moving."

Sokka added with a shrug, "But, you weren't the only one chasing us so don't put all the blame on yourself. Zhao and his men were on our tail for a while too." He looked back at his map. "Besides, we preferred you over Zhao anyway. At least when you were on our tail, I felt better knowing my sister wasn't too far from my reach."

The thought of me being separated from my family made my gut twist. Guilt fell over Zuko, and he shut his eyes as he tore himself up over what Sokka said. I left my spot and scooted over to where Zuko was sitting against the side of the saddle. Moving beside him, I hugged him to give him some comfort. As Zuko hugged me back, Momo left his lap and moved over to where Sokka was to see what he was doing.

"I regret so many things," Zuko spoke softly. "I wish I could take back every fire ball I threw at you guys."

Katara smirked. "Don't worry, Zuko. We'll get you back for it. Especially when you and Crys have kids in the future. I'll be sure to tell them all about your failure to capture a twelve year old kid."

Zuko and I blushed simultaneously at the thought of having kids together. Her comment flustered the both of us to the point that her insult towards Zuko slid right by. Sokka shook his head."No, no! No talk about my sis having babies! I can't think about stuff like that."

Toph scoffed. "What do you think's gonna happen when they're married, Sokka? Do I need to talk with you about where you came from?"

Sokka's ears went red. "No! I don't need that talk!" He then pointed over at me. "You better not do anything but kiss!"

Covering my face, I shook my head in disbelief. "Can we please change the subject?"

"Sure," Toph began. "Let's talk about what will happen to the Fire Nation once we dethrone the Fire Lord."

Aang looked back at the group from where he was still guiding Appa. "I've thought a lot about that, and I have an idea." He looked at Zuko with determination. "Your people will need a leader once we defeat your father, Zuko. One with a fresh mind and generous heart. Will you be willing to take the place as Fire Lord?"

Zuko was stunned by Aang's question. He seemed at a loss for words as he replayed what Aang had just suggested in his mind. With a weak smile though, Zuko answered, "It's something I've wanted for so long… A chance to regain my honor. If I become Fire Lord, I'll rule with compassion and understanding like Avatar Roku would want me to." He then looked at me with sudden desire. "But I don't want to do it alone."

His words were more nerve-wracking than a surprise.

"Once my father is defeated and I become Fire Lord, I think the best way to unify the Four Nations is to bring fire and water together. Once we stabilize the regions and stop the fighting, Crystal and I can wed as a symbol of peace. By marrying the Chief's daughter of the Southern Water Tribe, we can bring our two nations together to reassure everyone that the world is no longer divided." He took my hand suddenly, and my skin burned from the attention everyone was giving us as I met his gaze. My heart raced. "Of course, it doesn't have to be an overly extravagant thing if you don't want it to be. We could always have the ceremony at the South Pole."

I was in shock, but when I saw the sincerity in his gaze all I could do was blush from the heat of his touch.

"Great idea!" Aang chimed. "You and Crystal leading the Fire Nation side by side is a perfect symbol of unity!"

Katara smiled. "Yes! That will be a wonderful way to start repairing the Four Nations and restore harmony at last."

Toph smirked. "You know… They already act like a married couple anyway. May as well make it official."

Sokka seemed to be for the idea as well. "My sister, Fire Lady of the Fire Nation…?" He nodded. "Doesn't have a bad ring to it actually."

As the group continued to talk about my wedding and future, I looked down at Zuko's grasp on my hand feeling uneasy. Fire Lady…? I hadn't thought much about what marrying Zuko would mean other than that I could be by his side for the rest of my days. The thought of helping him rule a whole nation, and being a symbol to the world made me sick with uncertainty. How could I help lead a whole nation I had no knowledge of? It would take me years to learn the odds and ends of the Fire Nation, and that doesn't even include its customs and traditions.

I'd make a fool of myself…

Zuko glanced over at me suddenly sensing something was off by the tremble of my hand. I tried to give a convincing smile to him so he wouldn't worry, but a feeling of uncertainty was already swirling within me and I couldn't stop.

"Hey! I see land!" Aang shouted, taking Zuko's attention from me.

Sokka quickly jumped into action. "Alright everyone. Quiet time now. We're about to enter the enemy's land."

Zuko shook his head. "I don't think you have to worry about anything, Sokka. These are the outer islands. If soldiers are positioned anywhere it would be closer to the Fire Nation Capital, or in the more populated towns. We shouldn't have a problem right now."

Sokka rolled up his map. "It's better to be safe than sorry."

Toph nodded. "Yeah. Definitely don't want to deal with Firebenders right now..." She grimaced. "No offense, Sparky."

Zuko rubbed the back of his neck. "None taken." He then mentioned to Aang, "There are a lot of caves around here. Let's find one to land Appa in."

Only a moment later, Aang exclaimed with excitement, "I think I see a cave below!"

My brother snapped, "Shhush... keep quiet!"

Katara let the cloud of fog evaporate then, and we were all able to see our surroundings again. A large cave stood in front of us, having been formed by erosion from the waves that most likely hit it during times of very high tide. Giant boulders jutted around us, and some pidge-puffins hopped around on the rocky bank. Once Appa landed, my brother managed to dismount and look around with caution. We were blocked well by a mountainous rocky structure, so I had a feeling the only thing we needed to worry about was someone on a boat.

Sokka stopped in front of a large boulder outside of the cave then, crossing his arms. "Great job with the cloud camo, but next time, let's disguise ourselves as the kind of cloud who knows how to keep its mouth shut."

Toph stated with sarcasm as she jumped down from Appa, "Yeah, we wouldn't want a bird to hear us chatting up there and turn us in."

"And you were the one doing most of the talking," Katara commented, managing to drop from Appa too.

Sokka defended himself. "I wasn't the one discussing wedding ceremonies and girly things. And we're in enemy territory now." A pidge-puffin appeared on the boulder above him, and he pointed up at it. "Those are enemy birds." Three more appeared on top of the boulder.

Zuko walked over, shoving Sokka's hand down. "Quit being paranoid. You don't have anything to worry about in this area."

Getting off of Appa, I looked around at our surroundings with both curiosity and uncertainty. Sokka was right to be a little worried. We were no longer among friends. Everywhere we went from now on, we would be surrounded by the people we grew up to fear. Aang landed beside me suddenly and placed a hand on my shoulder. I met his gaze with surprise, and I saw him smile weakly at me as if he had sensed my worry. Momo leaned forward from Aang's shoulder and licked my cheek. I nodded to let them both know I was fine. As they left me beside Appa to approach the group gathered by the boulder, I looked back at the direction we'd just come.

Home felt so far away, even though we were closer than we had been in months. By winning the war and wedding Zuko, I knew I'd be even further from the land I truly knew.

"Let's check out the cave!" Aang grabbed Zuko's arm sleeve suddenly and tugged him over to the area we'd be making shelter. As the rest of the group went in, I followed quietly keeping to my thoughts. As the group discussed the large cave that was colder than I imagined the Fire Nation to be, I kicked at a loose rock absentmindedly.

If I were to marry Zuko, then this cave and everything around it would be under his and my authority. Being Fire Lady, I'd be responsible for ensuring the safety of every part of the Fire Nation. I loved Zuko so much, but the thought of having such responsibility chilled me to the core. I couldn't protect my mother and was too weak to escape my captors in the past. Was I really strong enough to be the future Fire Lord's wife?

Shaking my head, I tried to push the unnecessary thoughts out, but they just kept coming.

"Well, this is it. This is how we'll be living until the invasion begins. Hiding in cave after cave...after cave...after cave…"

Sokka's statement brought me out of my thoughts briefly, to which I was relieved. Looking over, I saw he'd hung his head in dismay from his own words.

Katara rolled her eyes. "Sokka, we don't need to become cave people. What we need is some new clothes."

Aang nodded. "Yeah! Blending in is better than hiding out. If we get Fire Nation disguises, we'll be just as safe as we would be hiding in a cave."

Toph walked over to the side of the cave. "Plus...they have real food out there. Does anyone wanna sit in the dirt and eat cave-hoppers?" She punched the wall then, and several bugs hopped out from the cracks of the cave. My sister grimaced, while I nudged a few away with my boot. Momo raced after one, catching it and biting into it. We all grimaced at his appetite.

"Yeah… I think new clothes is a good idea," Zuko muttered as he watched Momo eat the bug with horror. "I'm sure we can find some in the town nearby. There's one just over these rocks, about a mile west. There will be guards, so we need to be as discreet as possible."

"And once we find some clothes, we can go check out the town and get some lunch," Katara suggested. "We could all use some good food."

At the mention of food, Sokka cheered up and joined the plan. "Great idea! Let's get going!"

We ended up leaving Appa at the cave to rest from his long flight, and then climbed through the rocky terrain to get to a much flatter area along the bank. Zuko had grown up memorizing the layout of the land and its numerous territories, so he was able to lead us along the bank of the beach towards the outskirts of the nearest town. After climbing up a steep incline, we reached the top of a cliff where numerous clothes-lines were stretched out.

As we crouched behind a large boulder, Katara commented, "That's a lot of clothes in one place!"

Zuko peaked around the boulder with concentration. "There are laundry shops like this scattered across the Fire Nation. Some people prefer to pay for their clothes to be cleaned."

Sokka scoffed. "Are people lazy in the Fire Nation?"

Toph smirked. "My kind of place!"

Katara snapped, "Don't get used to it. You're still doing your own laundry Toph."

Aang frowned. "I don't know about this. These clothes belong to somebody..."

My sister was too excited for new clothes to listen to him. "I call the silk robe!" She darted out from behind the rock, which led the rest of us to follow in a panic. We didn't want to be caught stealing clothes and have our identities discovered right off. Thankfully the laundry man was passed out asleep on a wooden chair under the shade of the small laundry hut. We all managed to grab an outfit off of the long extended ropes that looked the correct size. Once we were safely out of the area, having stolen shoes to match the outfits as well, we made our way back down the cliff to a secluded beach.

As the boys went behind a large boulder to change, us girls did the same behind our own stone wall. Looking down at the outfit I'd grabbed, which had been hanging beside the one Katara had snatched, I felt my stomach twist with uncertainty.

"Uh… I think I made a mistake," I commented.

Katara, who was already undressed and in just her shift asked, "Why? What's wrong?" She glanced at the outfit, and then smiled weakly. "Oh… It will be okay."

I looked over at Katara's red fabric and saw the style was similar. Toph already had her outfit on, and I could tell even if I asked to trade, hers would be a little too small height wise.

Sighing heavily, I looked down at the two piece red outfit that would definitely reveal the scar on my collarbone and the burn on my stomach and back. Taking in a deep breath, I took off my outer clothes leaving on my shift. Putting on the red skirt over my white shorts, the fabric stopped right above my knees. A gold trim shot from the center of the skirt and parted closer to the bottom hitting the other gold trim that went along the skirts edge. The dark red sleeveless shirt I put on covered my chest stopping right below my collarbone, having a gold trim that laced around the top and bottom. There were two thin red strands of fabric the width of my pinky to tie around my neck and hold the shirt in place. I'd grabbed some red sandals in the process and managed to get the thin straps to hold around my ankles.

Katara's outfit was in two pieces as well. Her top had a wide strap that covered her left shoulder, and the fabric cut off right below her chest. There was no trim on her top, but she did have a small tie where the fabric came together at the bottom. Her skirt was actually brown pants that stopped at the calf with the skirt slit on both sides. Her skirt also had black trim on the three darker fabrics that hung from the top of the skirt down to her knees. She had similar stranded shoes like my own.

Toph's outfit was the one I envied the most. Hers covered her whole body leaving only below her knees, above her collar bones, and below her shoulders uncovered. Her outfit was red as well, and came with a long red shawl that had yellow in the center. She tied the shawls loose ends to her waist with a red belt. She also put on soft red shoes which I knew wouldn't last.

"Don't worry about your scars, Crys," Katara began, sensing my discomfort. "If anyone asks you can just tell them you got them from a firebending accident… It's likely to happen to anyone in these parts," Katara reassured.

Crossing my arms, I looked down at the sand around me. "Yeah… I guess so…"

As Katara and Toph headed back to the open area of the beach, I hung back running a hand over my collarbone where my scar began. Standing in the shadow of the rocks around me I pictured myself further as Zuko's wife. As I did, I felt another wave of uncertainty and insecurity wash over me again. I'd seen one drawing of Zuko's mother before it was destroyed in the explosion Zhao had caused a long time ago. The image of his mother was that of a beautiful woman with flawless skin and the strength of a Fire Lady. I could never take that title and be the face of the Fire Nation.

"Crys…" Katara came back around the rock suddenly, noticing I hadn't followed. "What's wrong?"

Meeting her gaze, I tried to smile but knew she would see through it. "I'm fine. Just wish I wasn't so exposed."

She walked over to me with knowing. "Don't lie to me…" She stopped and grabbed both of my shoulders. She looked frustrated and concerned. "This doesn't have to do with the outfit. You've been quiet since this morning. What's up with you?"

I grimaced at her perception. "Katara… It's nothing."

Toph's voice broke our conversation short as she shouted, "Hey! You chickies coming?"

Katara sighed, and then grabbed my hand, squeezing it with reassurance. "You know you can talk to me sis… You were there for me when Aang was hurt… It's my turn to be there for you."

I smiled weakly. "I know… But this isn't something you can help with." Squeezing her hand back, I promised, "I'm okay. I just have a lot to think about it. Let's just focus now on finding some lunch."

She seemed to want to argue, but then realized she was better off letting it go for now. She knew when I was ready to talk that I would. Eventually we made our way back out into the open where the guys were all waiting with Toph. Once we resurfaced, three sets of eyes fell on the two of us with shock. Aang's eyes stared more at Katara than anyone else, while Sokka looked at the both of us in disbelief. Zuko gazed at me as well, and when he caught my eyes he looked at the sand quickly.

I noticed immediately that the guys were all wearing different outfits as well. Sokka wore a short sleeved long burgundy shirt with a brighter red collar at the top that extended out to the shoulders and had red trim. He wore black pants that cut off right below his knees, and red strap sandals. He'd managed to get his hair up in a topknot as well.

Aang's outfit covered every inch of his skin up to his hands. He wore a tan shirt with some tan pants, underneath a black overshirt with red trim. His soft fabric shoes covered his feet and ankles to the point where all you saw were his toes. He'd tied a belt around his forehead to cover the remainder of his arrow tattoo that was already mostly covered by his dark hair.

Zuko was the last, and I honestly was relieved to see him back in Fire Nation colors. He had kept his hair down, and he wore a dark burgundy shirt and the same colored pants. Over his shirt he wore a sleeveless cover darker than the fabric beneath, and gold trim decorated the outer-layers edge. He had a gold belt tied around his waist to keep the outer layer on. His shoes were pointed up at the toes and covered up to his knee.

"Wow…" Aang commented, taking in the appearance of my sister with red cheeks. He then frowned. "Oh… Your mom's necklace."

Katara grimaced when he mentioned it, grabbing the blue charm with water swirls in dismay. "Oh… yeah… I guess it's pretty obviously water tribe, isn't it?" She reluctantly removed it and stuck it in her pants pocket beneath her skirt.

I placed a hand on her shoulder and gave it a squeeze with knowing. "Only while we're in public. You can wear it otherwise."

She nodded, but still seemed disheartened by the removal.

"You two are showing off a lot of skin there," Sokka commented suddenly, pointing at us both with disapproval.

His statement made all of my insecurities come flooding back.

Katara rolled her eyes. "Chill, Sokka. It's warm here, so these are common outfits for girls our age in this area."

Aang tried to reassure him. "I think they both look beautiful!"

"Hmm…" Toph suddenly thought aloud, changing the subject. "I should probably wear shoes, but then I won't be able to see as well. Sorry shoes!" She plopped down in the dirt and brought her knee up to her chest. Then she yanked on the upper part of her shoe sending the sole flying straight at Zuko's forehead. As it dropped to the ground, he looked at her with disbelief. "Finally, a stylish shoe for the blind earthbender."

Zuko rubbed his forehead. "You keep saying you're blind, but I'm not very convinced with that aim."

Toph grinned. "I'm just skilled." Once she had the other sole ripped off, she stood and squished her toes in the earth. "Ah… Much better."

Sokka stepped over to Katara and I, still in disapproval of our appearance. "I can't take you both to town looking like this. Every guy will be staring."

Toph stepped over, punching Sokka in the shoulder. "Chill out! Your brotherly instincts are a little irritating sometimes. Princess and Sugarqueen can take care of themselves. I'm sure you and Sparky can scare off the guys though if you need to."

Eventually we started to make our way to town again, this time in our Fire Nation disguises. Sokka helped Zuko hide his scar slightly by giving him one of the capes we kept on Appa to use its hood. Although we had a feeling no one would recognize him in village clothing, we didn't want to be too careless.

As we headed back over the cliff, and this time down a rocky path towards the town which rested in a valley, Zuko commented on my appearance for the first time. "I've always liked the way you look in red."

I nodded saying a small thanks, but kept quiet as my thoughts raced again with images of the future.

Before I could take another step, he grabbed my arm suddenly and forced us to a stop. I was shocked by his action and looked at him with question. "I know that look. What's wrong with you? You've barely spoken a word since we got off of Appa."

I met his gaze with surprise, and then looked away in guilt. I felt guilt because as much as I wanted to tell him what was wrong, I also didn't want to hurt his feelings or make him think I didn't love him. If I told him I was scared of becoming the future Fire Lady, I feared I'd lose him to another who was more passionate, willing, and suited to accept the role.

The others had stopped walking and looked at us with question. Katara quickly tried to intervene, knowing I wasn't ready to talk. "She's probably just tired from the trip, Zuko. I'm sure we all are."

Toph was stunned. "Hey… You're lying, Katara."

As the unwanted attention landed on me, I decided to try and tell the truth to avoid Toph catching my lie. "I'm hungry. I haven't eaten much since we went after Aang yesterday. Once we get some real food I'll feel better."

Not a complete lie, and I could tell Toph was trying hard to detect for any dishonesty. She sighed though, nodding to the group that I was telling the truth. Zuko wasn't convinced at all, and neither was my sister. However they decided not to dwell on it seeing that I didn't want anymore attention on me.

When we got into town eventually, I could sense it was eating Zuko alive that I wouldn't tell him what was on my mind. While we walked around the busy bustling town I tried to push the thoughts behind and take in the new area around me with enthusiasm. I wanted to cover up my worries to calm Zuko's concerns.

The shops around us were made out of fine wood that had black, red, and gold paint decorating the roof tiles and siding. People around us wore vibrant colors of red and gold, while the merchant men and women wore much more burgundy and brownish clothing. As we looked around, Sokka pulled out a bag of coins father had handed him right before we left to chase after Aang. The coins were taken from the vault of the ship we'd stolen.

A few of us bought something from the market to add to our outfits. Katara got a choker necklace to help fill the void of mom's, Sokka found a gold top knot clasp for his hair, Toph got a red and gold headband, and Zuko bought a new belt to carry his dual blades in. While the others made their purchases, I looked around at the Fire Nation citizens who walked by with curiosity.

Most of the men and women seemed carefree as they wandered around the marketplace, while others looked focused on a task they had at hand. Young children chased after one another while their parents scolded them for improper behavior. Surprisingly, the Fire Nation citizens around us weren't too different from the people of the Earth Kingdom or Water Tribe.

Maybe I was overreacting and panicking too much about the future. Perhaps the Fire Nation's culture and customs weren't too different from my own.

Then again, what I was seeing wasn't palace life...

"Hey," Sokka nudged my elbow with his. "You want anything?"

His sudden nudge startled me, and I looked over to see the rest of the group was finishing up their browsing. Aang had a giant lump in his chest where Momo was hiding beneath his shirt. "No…" I answered, looking over at Sokka to respond. "I think I'm too hungry to shop."

Toph overheard and piped in. "Yeah! Let's go eat! I'm starving too."

Zuko spoke up. "There's some meat shops in the area. It's a delicacy here. I'm sure we can find one pretty fast."

Katara quickly asked one of the merchants where we could grab some grub, and the lady pointed us in the direction of a shop. When we got to the place, Aang commented that he'd eat later seeing that they had nothing besides fish, pork, and beef. Leaving Aang outside, we all went in and Zuko helped us pick what we should eat. We were all thankful to have him at that moment, because most of the cooked meat on display looked to be covered in spices galore. After we chose our food, and Sokka paid for our purchase, we headed back outside to return to Aang. However, when we got outside we were all horrified to find he wasn't where we left him.

Katara quickly turned to panic. "Hey! Where'd Aang go?!"

Sokka, who was already chowing down on his beef kabobs, shrugged and answered with his mouth full, "Don worr. He show um some ti."

"Sokka!" Katara snapped. "What did I say about talking with your mouth full?!"

Zuko sighed heavily. "Let's eat and then we'll fan out to find him. He couldn't have gotten far."

After we ate our food, we all did just that. The group split up to go find Aang, with Katara and Sokka heading off one way and Toph, Zuko, and I going another. We'd all agreed to meet back up at the cave in an hour.

Toph shook her head with her arms crossed. "Where could Twinkletoes have gone?"

I answered softly, "You know Aang… He likes to explore. I'm sure he's fine."

Zuko looked around the area as we walked by different men and women going about their business. "We tell him to keep a low profile, and the kid can't sit still for five minutes."

"You shouldn't be surprised," Toph stated. "If he sat still you would've captured him months ago."

He went to argue, but then he realized she was right.

After an hour of searching for Aang, we decided the best thing we could do was just go back to the cave and hope the others found him. When we got back though, the only soul at the cave was Appa who was munching on some hay. As Toph muttered something about taking a nap, Zuko grabbed my arm before we headed into the cave.

"Hey… Can we talk?"

His question didn't surprise me. I knew he was still worried about my mannerism, and I was aware that he wanted to get to the bottom of it. I nodded with defeat and followed him down the rocky bank towards the water. He stopped at the edge of a boulder that jutted out over the water and sat on the ledge letting his feet hang. I stepped over and sat beside him letting the sound of the waves hitting the stone below fill the silence between us. As we sat, I kept my gaze from his knowing that if I looked into his prodding eyes I'd feel guilt and spill everything.

"I think I figured it out…" He began. "It took me a little bit, but I recalled the events from this morning and I finally understand." He let out a deep sigh. "This is about becoming my wife when I'm Fire Lord… Isn't it?"

The fact that he figured it out didn't surprise me. It was more so that he seemed calm about it.

I didn't see a point in keeping quiet anymore. "Yeah…"

We sat for a moment in silence as Zuko tried to gather his thoughts. Then he let out a heavy breath. "You don't want to marry me?"

I frowned, shaking my head. "You know that isn't it…" I finally met his gaze and did all I could not to cry. " I love you, Zuko… I can't imagine being with anyone but you in the future." My stomach twisted suddenly and I dropped my gaze once more. "It's just…" I swallowed and cupped my hands together anxiously. "I… I'm not the most ideal future Fire Lady… When we defeat your father, and you take the throne, you'll be prepared to rule the Fire Nation and help restore the world. You have the strength and passion of a leader like your ancestors before you. And you were born a Prince so being Fire Lord is your birthright…" I paused. "You're handsome, brave, wise, and strong… All of the qualities one would look for in a Fire Lord... But me…" I sighed as my confession came out. "I'm just the daughter of a small village chief, who not even a year ago had never stepped foot off her snowy shore. All I know how to do is household chores and basic waterbending. I know nothing about the Fire Nation, let alone how to be the Fire Lord's wife. What if I screw up and make a fool out of the both of us? What if people don't take you seriously because your wife is some scarred up freak from the-"

"Stop!" Zuko's order cut my words off. He grabbed my chin and forced me to look at him. His amber orbs burned into my gaze as he spoke with sincerity. "Don't ever call yourself that again." Tears threatened to spill when I saw the pain and frustration on his face. "You're not a freak. Why would you even think that?"

I grabbed his hand to try and look away. He wouldn't have it, so I shut my eyes instead. "There's no way I can be the Fire Lord's wife when I look like this... Your mother was beautiful and flawless compared to me... I don't want to embarrass you…"

"Embarrass me…" He released my chin, and I dropped my head. "You're not the only one with a scar. How is my scar different from yours?"

"It is different… Your scar symbolizes your strength and determination… You received it by going up against your father for something you knew in your heart was wrong and needed to be stopped. You were brave and compassionate towards your people, and your father burned you for defying his immoral acts." I took in a heavy breath. "But my scars… They're painful memories of the past and reminders of my inability to protect the ones I love. After my mother died, those who saw my face would look away at the sight. My father… Gran Gran… Even Sokka and Katara, although they tried to hide it… No matter what, I'll always be a painful reflection of the death and pain this war has caused…"

A silence fell between us again, and I kept my eyes shut too scared to see Zuko's reaction. After a moment, he spoke softly.

"You're wrong…" I looked at him with blurred vision. He stared out at the horizon with intensity and clenched fists. "When I first met you your scar wasn't a sign of weakness to me. It was a symbol of survival. Even as I got to know you and learned more about your past, the only thing I think of when I see your scars is your sacrifice. You tried to save your mom from a group of armored men, and you were willing to fight against Azula back in Ba Sing Se to save Katara and I." He sighed heavily. "You're not weak. You have as much bravery and compassion as any soldier I've met, Crys."

I let his words sink in as I looked down at the sea below.

"And if you think your scar makes you any less beautiful then clearly you never notice all the guys we walk by who ogle over you."

I blushed. "Areto doesn't co-"

"Areto isn't the problem. Your brother was right earlier to be so worried about you and your sister… A lot of the men we walked by today couldn't help but steal a glance at the two of you." Zuko shook his head. "I think the only person struggling to look past your scars right now is you though… You once told me long ago that you barely think of the scar on my face. Well I'm the same way with yours." He brushed a strand of hair back behind my ear to reveal my marked skin completely as I met his gaze. "All I see is the beautiful daughter of a Chief, and the girl I want by my side for the rest of my life."

I felt my heart warm at his sincerity.

"Please stop tearing yourself up and feeling like you need to change yourself for me." He pressed his forehead to my own. "I'm not here just because of my great-grandfather you know… I want to be with you."

"I know…" I spoke softly, feeling a tear escape. "I'm sorry, Zuko… I shouldn't have gotten so worried. Talking about it this morning just made everything seem so real."

He put an arm around my shoulders suddenly and pulled me to his chest. I let my head rest against him, enjoying his comfort. "I know it was a lot to ask…" He whispered. "We don't have to worry about any of that right now though. Let's just focus on winning… When the time comes then we'll face this again. But we'll face it together."

"Yeah…" I smiled. "I'd like that."

A moment of silence passed between us again, and then I stated, "By the way… I didn't get to tell you earlier, but I think you chose a good outfit. It suits you."

I could only imagine he was blushing as he held me closer. "You should've heard your brother though. He said I looked like someone from the circus because of my shoes."

I smiled. "He just likes to mess with you. You and him have a lot in common, so it's easy to do."

After spending a few more minutes to ourselves, talking like we did back in the old days when it was just us and Iroh, we decided to head back to the hideout. Once we arrived back at the cave, we found Sokka and Katara had returned and both looked frustrated.

"Let me guess… No Aang?"

Katara looked up from where she sat against the cave wall, surprised to hear the question had come from me. She saw Zuko and I had returned together, and became curious. "You seem to be in a better mood?"

I gave a small smile. "Zuko and I had a nice chat."

She pouted. "You were supposed to come to me with your problems."

"Sorry… Next time, sis."

"I tell you what," Sokka interrupted. He paced back and forth anxiously. "If that kid doesn't come back soon I'm going to lose my cool!" I knew what he really meant was he'd be worried sick, but Sokka wasn't great at confessing stuff like that.

"Momo's with him," I stated. "I'm sure he's fine. You all know Aang. He likes to explore. He'll be back."

Toph muttered something from where she was lying back against her bag.

"What was that, Toph?" Sokka stepped over with his arms crossed.

She opened her clouded eyes with narrowed brows. "I said stop pacing because you're ruining my beauty sleep!"

He scoffed. "Since when do you need beauty sleep? I can pace anywhere I-"

Toph dropped her palm to the earth and Sokka tripped from the sudden lifted ground as he took another step in his pace. He stumbled forward right into Zuko, and they both tumbled onto the cave floor. As they struggled against one another to get back to their feet, snapping at Toph as they did so, Sokka's new headpiece got stuck on Zuko's shirt.

Katara burst into laughter and I laughed too as Zuko snapped at Sokka to get off. Eventually I stepped over to help them break loose, and once they were free Sokka went back over to Toph to scold her. Zuko dusted himself off but couldn't help but smile at the interaction between Toph and Sokka. Toph was blatantly ignoring Sokka as he scolded her, and it was indeed entertaining.

When the sun started to set a few hours later, we all debated going back into town to search for Aang again. However, he arrived as we planned our search and we all were relieved to see he and Momo were alright. However, from the light of the fire I was bewildered to see his clothes were covered in ash.

"Where have you been?" Katara jumped up from her seat by the fire Zuko helped us make. "We've been worried sick!"

Aang smiled widely. "I got invited to play with some kids after school."

I was stunned by his statement, and looked over at him from where I sat by Zuko. "School?"

Sokka was horrified and got to his feet stepping over to Aang. "What?!"

Aang grinned. "I enrolled in a Fire Nation school, and I'm going back tomorrow."

Sokka cried in horror, "Enrolled in what?!"

Zuko shook his head in disbelief. "What are you thinking? Being surrounded by a bunch of Fire Nation kids is a terrible plan, Aang."

Aang shook his head. "No it isn't. None of them suspect me. They just think I'm a kid from the colonies. And better yet, I'm learning so much about the Fire Nation. You told me that it's important I learn about the Fire Nation before I start firebending, Zuko. Well here's my chance to get an up close first-hand look!"

Katara commented, "I don't see an issue. If he made it all day without getting discovered then one more day can't hurt."

Looking back at the fire, I shook my head. "I don't know about this Aang… We shouldn't stay in one place too long."

Toph, who chewed on some jerky, agreed. "Yeah. I don't like the idea of being in this cave another day. We should move on."

Aang protested. "You guys! This is a once in a lifetime chance!"

Sokka let out a deep breath. "Aang, I'm trying to be mature and not immediately shoot down your idea. But it sounds...really terrible."

Toph added, "Yeah, we got our outfits. What do you need to go to school for?"

Aang explained, "Every minute I'm in that classroom, I'm learning new things about the Fire Nation. I already have a picture of Fire Lord Ozai." He suddenly pulled something from inside his shirt out for us to see. Momo, who was on his shoulder, looked at the picture with wide eyes. "And here's one that I made out of noodles!" His art piece on a thin parchment had pasted on dry noodles of an older male form.

Sokka examined the work curiously. " Impressive, I admit. But I still think it's too dangerous."

Aang looked away deviously. "I guess we'll never find out about the secret river then. It goes right to the Fire Lord's palace. We were supposed to learn about it in class tomorrow…"

I looked over at Zuko, who shook his head in disbelief.

"Aang…" he began. "You do realize I lived at the palace. Your argument is invalid. I can tell you all about this secret river you speak of."

Sokka tapped his chin. "Hmm... I am a fan of secret rivers. I'll have to discuss that one with you Zuko."

"Crystal! You have my back, right?!" Aang looked over at me with plea.

I went to argue again, but stopped as I recalled everything Aang had told me a while back about his life before meeting us. Despite being frozen in an iceberg for a hundred years, he was forced to isolate himself from kids his age back when he was training with the monks. Aang had been forced to grow up too fast.

As I stared at his ridiculous work of art that he still held in his hands, I smiled weakly meeting his gaze, "Okay, Aang… As long as you keep a low profile, then I'm fine with it."

Toph scoffed. "He doesn't know how to keep a low profile."

The others decided if I was giving in then they didn't feel like arguing anymore. The next day Aang went back to school, leaving Momo with us this time so he wouldn't get in trouble. As he was gone, Katara and I practiced waterbending together while Toph was entertained by Sokka and Zuko's sword training.

While I practiced my bending, I finally confessed to Katara what had been bothering me so much the other day. She reassured me just as Zuko had that I was being too hard on myself, and I'd make a great future Fire Lady. She also told me that she couldn't imagine me marrying anyone else in the future apart from Zuko. She scolded me for putting myself down because of my scar, stating that Zuko wouldn't have given up going home if he didn't love me for both my beauty and heart. Her words were encouraging and reassuring.

Later that night, Aang got back looking slightly embarrassed. When we inquired what was wrong with him, he answered that he needed someone to pass as his parents because he got in trouble with his teacher. My brother and sister were feeling quite adventurous so they put on some disguises to pass as Aang's mom and dad. As they prepared themselves for the parent-teacher meeting, Zuko and I both agreed that their disguises looked ridiculous. Sokka used some of Appa's fur for a beard, while Katara shoved a small sheet inside her trousers to make herself look pregnant. Toph was amused by the whole thing, and even helped Sokka practice his fatherly tone.

An hour later, the trio returned from their meeting with Aang's teacher looking pretty satisfied. When Zuko inquired as to how it had gone, Sokka joked around and kept his fatherly role going. "This young whippersnapper is in a lot of trouble! I have half a mind to bend him over my knee."

Zuko appeared amused. "I'd like to see you try and punish the Avatar."

Sokka accepted the challenge. In his fatherly mocking tone, he snapped at Aang, "That settles it. No more school for you young man!"

Aang pouted. "I'm not ready to leave. I'm having fun for once, just being a normal kid. You don't know what it's like, Sokka. You get to be normal all the time!"

Toph smirked. "Ha, ha. Sokka normal? Only in your dreams Aang."

Aang spoke again. "Listen, guys, those kids at school are the future of the Fire Nation. If we wanna change this place for the better, we need to show them a little taste of freedom."

Sokka crossed his arms, returning to his normal voice. "What could you possibly do for a country of depraved little fire monsters?"

Zuko scowled. "Hey! Watch it Sokka." I put my hand on his shoulder to calm him, seeing he didn't like his people being generalized as monsters.

Sokka looked apologetic. "Sorry, Zuko. I'm working on it…"

Aang broke in to calm the tension. " I'm gonna throw them…" He did a strange movement with his feet. "...a secret dance party!"

My jaw dropped, as did the rest of us.

Sokka cried out both in play and sincerity, "Go to your room!"

Katara shook her head. "That's not a good idea Aang."

"Well…" Aang grimaced. "I kind of already told everyone where we're meeting, and they said they'll definitely come."

Toph groaned. Sokka looked horrified. Katara covered her eyes in disbelief. Zuko snapped at Aang for being insane. I jumped in asking him where the party was exactly.

"I gave them directions here."

"Here?!" Zuko smacked his forehead. "Aang! That's a horrible idea!"

He held his hands up in defense. "It will be fine guys! No one knows we're not Fire Nation, and it will be for just a few hours. These kids deserve some fun too, and it will be a chance for all of us to learn about the next generation of the Fire Nation."

Katara sighed in defeat. "Fine Aang… I'll go get some candles from town…"

About an hour later we were preparing for the guests that were soon to arrive at our humble cave. Toph had made smooth raised surfaces to place the candles Katara had purchased around the cave. Zuko lit them in disbelief, while Sokka (who was still wearing his fatherly disguise) muttered from where he arranged a few more, "I can't believe we're having a dance party. It seems so... silly."

Aang smiled, "Don't think of it as a dance party, but as a cultural event celebrating the art of fancy footwork."

I rolled my eyes and looked over at Zuko as I fixed the bowl's position where I'd put some freshly squeezed moon-apple juice. "So a dance party," I commented.

Zuko nodded, shaking his head in disbelief as he watched Aang do a ridiculous dance again.

Toph gasped as she finished setting up the last lift for the musicians Aang said were coming. "They're coming! Everyone stop bending!"

Aang stepped over to Appa who had been observing our cleaning frenzy with curiosity. "Sorry buddy. You should probably wait out back." Appa grumbled as he stood and went to the back of the tunnel where the opening was that Toph created. Appa hadn't done well with caves and dark places since he was kept underground by Long Feng and his awful crew. I didn't blame him. I hated dark enclosed places too after that experience.

A few moments later the cave was completely crowded by children from the school Aang had been attending. They were all wearing the same outfit Aang wore, which helped me understand why the guards had forced him to school the other day in the first place. He looked the part. Music started to play from the small band that had gathered, and the children huddled together with uncertainty.

A young boy around Aang's age stepped forward with uncertainty. "Now what do we do?"

Aang stepped over to him and did a little move. "This is when you start dancing."

As Aang tried to encourage the kids to dance, the rest of us sat on a makeshift stone bench that Toph constructed. Zuko had thrown his hood up to hide his face in case any of the kids in the dim cave somehow knew him. While Aang showed a bunch of crazy dance moves to the kids, Zuko stated to the rest of us, "I'm not sure what era these dance moves are from, but they definitely aren't moves of today."

I smirked. "This is coming from the same guy that refused to dance with me back on the ship during music nights."

He scoffed. "I wasn't going to dance to those ridiculous sea shanties. Besides, I was taught more on ballroom dancing than anything else."

Sokka leaned past me to speak to Zuko. "Aw… I think you're just embarrassed to dance in front of people prince boy."

Zuko glowered at him. "I don't see you dancing, Sokka." He then turned smug. "Why don't you and Toph hit the dance floor and show us how it's done."

"Nice try Sparky, but this blind chick don't do anything with her feet she don't want to do," Toph muttered. She then leaned back asking,"What about you though, Princess? You're a singer, so there should be some rhythm in your steps."

I blushed, while Katara smirked. "You know… Crystal always danced better than Sokka and I. Why don't you head out there and show them what you can do?"

Her suggestion made me grimace. "No thanks. Last thing I want is to be out there where people can see me."

Sokka tried to nudge me forward. "Come on sis. Live a little. None of these kids have met you, so there's no need to worry about embarrassment."

I sat back and crossed my arms. "It has nothing to do with that."

"You do realize that when you marry Zuko you'll have to dance a lot with him?" Sokka stated. "What else would royalty do at parties? You'll be the center of the stage, so get used to getting out in the crowd."

His statement suddenly brought my insecurities back. Katara and Zuko knew such talk would affect me since they had both been informed about my uncertainties yesterday. Katara told Sokka to leave me alone, while Zuko squeezed my hand reassuringly. I smiled over at him the best I could, trying to show him I was okay. He didn't seem convinced.

"Want to go get some fresh air?" He whispered into my ear. I hadn't realized then how rigid I had become until I went to nod. He stood, pulling me up with him as he held my hand. We both left the group to head to the back of the cave where Appa and Momo were chilling out. As we went, I heard Sokka ask, "Was it something I said?"

Toph responded, "When is it not?"

As we headed deep into the cave, we arrived at the area where Appa was moping by the new opening that Toph had created a while ago. Momo was sleeping on the saddle, not bothered by the music that echoed around us from the main area we'd just come from.

"Don't worry about what your brother said, Crys… You won't have to dance at those events if you don't want to."

"Zuko… I'm okay," I promised, turning and taking both of his hands causing him to stop in his step. The moonlight shone around us lighting our figures in the dark as we stood near Appa. "I just know I'm going to have a lot to learn living in the Fire Nation with you when this war ends… But, I'll do my best… I'll try and learn as much as I can about your world. I'll try to make you proud."

"You don't have to try and make me proud…" He moved his hand to my face and brushed a strand of hair behind my ear. Then he caressed my cheek with amusement. "Besides... I'm the one trying to make you proud right now… I wanted to tie Aang up and toss him on Appa when he told us about going to school and this dance party, but I behaved."

I shook my head. "No matter how hard you try, that kid will just keep getting himself into crazy situations."

The music- which had been fast and upbeat- slowed to a light melody suddenly. I was surprised by the sudden change of tune that echoed around us.

"Truth is..." I began, pulling his hand from my cheek with embarrassment. "I don't actually know ballroom dancing and stuff. The dances your crew taught me weren't exactly formal. If I were to dance at the palace, I'd have to get a dance tutor or something."

He grimaced. "Trust me… You don't want a dance tutor. I had one growing up and they are brutal." He took my hands suddenly and put them behind his back. I was surprised by his action and blushed. "Besides, dancing isn't the biggest part of social events in the Fire Nation. The focus is more on socializing and politics."

"Sounds boring," I commented, as Zuko put his hands behind my back as well and pulled me to his chest. As he held me to him, we swayed slightly to the music. I let my head rest against his chest as we were lost in the rhythm and our touch for a moment. After a few moments of silence and swaying, I confessed, "I actually don't mind this dance."

"Good… Because it's the only one I actually passed during my lessons as a kid."

His own confession made me laugh, and he laughed too.

When the song ended and a faster one began to play, we decided we'd danced enough and sat back against Appa who was still pouting that he was missing the fun. Momo curled up in my lap wanting a warmer place to lay, and Zuko pet him with me as we waited for the party to end. Surprisingly, we didn't have to wait long. Not even ten minutes after we sat down, the music cut off abruptly. Zuko and I shared a look of uncertainty, and we stood quickly. Momo moved to my shoulder, not sure himself what was going on.

Only a moment later, the sound of crashing stone echoed around us and the others ran around the bend of the cave.

"Time to go!" Sokka shouted as he rushed up Appa's tail, while Toph, Katara, and Aang followed behind. Zuko, Momo, and I did the same not sure what was happening. Once we were all on Appa, Sokka shouted out the signature call and the giant flying sky-bison pounded his tail against the earth taking off out of the cave.

A minute later, once we were a safe distance from the cave we'd departed swiftly, I asked with question, "What on earth happened?"

Aang, who sat beside Katara with disappointment, answered, "Hide mouse-ratted us. He's that bully I told you about the other day… and he's a party pooper. The Headmaster and two guards showed up to end the party."

Katara sighed. "At least we got out thanks to your new friends, Aang." She then looked over at our brother with disbelief. "By the way… We're safe, Sokka. You can take off the moustache, now."

Sokka smirked from where he sat by Toph. "Oh, no, I can't. It's permanently glued to my skin." He stroked it playfully.

Zuko commented jokingly as he leaned back against the saddle beside me with his arms crossed, "I can burn it off to help."

Sokka was horrified and ripped it off quickly. "Nope! I'm good! All good." Katara laughed at him, while I watched with amusement.

Toph spoke to Aang then. "Way to go, Dancypants. I think you really did help those kids. You taught them to be free."

Aang sighed. " I don't know. It was just a dance party, that's all."

Katara smiled. "Well, that was some dance party, Aang." She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek, causing him to blush in the moonlight.

Sokka clapped his hands slowly while using Aang's ridiculous outdated phrase, "Flamey-o, sir. Flame-ee-o." He then looked over at me and Zuko. "You two missed it by the way while you were having your lovers fest. I did myself a pretty sweet Camelephant Strut."

Toph coughed out a laugh. "Looked more like jumping on hot stones to me."

Zuko laughed at her description. "You know… I'd like a demonstration when we land. It could be enlightening."

Sokka crossed his arms with a huff. "You all laugh, but just wait. I'm going to out dance every one of you one of these days!"

"By all means," Toph begged. "Because I don't mind seeing you make a fool of yourself Sokka."

Aang commented, "I saw you, Sokka. A little more lifting your feet and you'll be a pro like me in no time."

"You two should start a dance company once this war ends," I stated, finding all my insecurities and worries fade as I messed with my brother and Aang. I'd been in a lighthearted state since Zuko and I had danced. "You could call yourselves The Boomer-Aang Brothers. Maybe juggle some warrior clubs and boulders as an additional act."

Aang beamed with delight. "That would be a blast!"

Sokka scoffed. "She's teasing us, Aang! Don't be so gullible!"

I smiled with satisfaction as Sokka listed all of the reasons why such an act would go terribly. The others listened in amusement at his rant. The distraction was perfect as Appa continued to fly west, taking us closer and closer to the coming battle ahead.