After dark, while the palace sleeps, Zuko sets to work adding the final details to the koi and dragons in the blade of a pearl dagger.
For weeks, his advisors lecture him on the importance of silk and wine as marriage offerings while Pakku drops hints about Katara's need for a new betrothal necklace. Zuko only pretends to listen. He already has all the advice he needs from Kanna and Hakoda.
He settles the finished dagger into its case alongside golden beads and ivory combs. For once, he is certain. His gift to Katara is exactly what it should be.