Crossroads

AN: It's been a while since I've sat down to write. I have been lazy at updating my stories, since I have been reading other stories like crazy. I've also been working hard at school and work and going to sleep early. Yes, I fall asleep very early now. I feel like an old woman, but that is beside the point. I hope that you like this story. Enjoy! Review!

Journey

Her lips were on his; depositing soft and velvety kisses that sent his soul on fire. Her fingers tangled on his shoulder length hair; pulling, demanding his proximity, as he slowly cradled her in his arms and worshiped her body with his own hands. He touched her lovingly and she moaned in ecstasy. Things were becoming heated and that's just how the young Fire Lord enjoyed things. Together, they were wrapped in a blanket of seduction. He wanted to keep his ministration until she had to beg him to stop or until he could bring the earthbender crashing down into a world of pure sexual bliss, love, and adoration. He reached for her and suddenly his arms were empty.

Perplexed, he stood up from the bed, searching, looking crazily for his beautiful queen. He couldn't touch her. She wasn't near him. She'd vanished in the blink of an eye. Zuko fell the darkness surround him. His life didn't have any meaning without her... When she left the Fire Nation – without telling anyone - she took a piece of his soul. She left him alone. He continued searching for her; he never ceased. He couldn't imagine a life without her. He'd lost hope after the months continued to pass him by and there was no word of her whereabouts.

"Toph!" He screamed. "Damn it, where did you go?"

Zuko's breath caught in his lungs, as he opened his eyes. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead and fell down his face. He ran a hand over his eyes and exhaled fast. It took him a few minutes to process where he was. Suddenly he remembered that he was in his ship's cabin. It had been five days since they boarded the large Earth Kingdom ship that Haru had found at the last minute. Zuko pressed the pillow against his face and grumble, disturbed by the dream he'd just had. It was so vivid. He felt his heart contrite at the memory of those years that he lived without his friend.

"Toph," he muttered to himself.

It was hot in the ship's cabin; hotter than usual for the Fire Lord. The change of the seasons caught him by surprise. He'd forgotten that as they approach his nation, the weather would gradually shift and be different from that of the Earth Kingdom. Zuko blinked fast, until he was certain that he'd woken up from such a dreadful dream. He opened his eyes and threw his pillow into the darkness of the room that seemed to engulf him. It was too hot even for a firebender. It felt like he was in the deepest part of hell. The metal walls made the room stuffy and the sweltering environment was uncomfortable. His long, black hair hugged the curve of his jaw, making him feel uneasy. Zuko grunted and cursed under his breath when he pulled his hair back and removed the bed's cover off his body. He cursed some more when he felt his robes cling tightly to his muscular chest as he sat up on the bed.

"Damn," he cursed in the darkness that surrounded him.

He stretched his hand and touched the mattress and sighed. He'd fallen asleep before taking his nightly bath. He ran a large hand over his sweaty hair and sighed dramatically. He detested feeling so dirty; so unsure of himself. He couldn't believe that he'd missed his bath; all because he'd drifted into sleep and dreamt of her. He hid a smile of satisfaction in the darkness and wondered how it would feel to sleep, cuddled next to Toph. A flutter of unknown feelings swarmed him - He shook the thought out of his head and grunted under his breath. He was so tired of imagining things. He wanted to be proactive – to hold the earthbender in his arms and make her happy. He'd promised her that they would take things slow and he was a man of his word. Toph Be Fong wouldn't know what hit her – he was going to be the most enchanting man she'd ever come across. He was going to make her fall head over heels in love with him. She would love him… he was certain… He was sure of it.

Zuko stood up and staggered in the darkness, until he accidentally hit the night table.

"Damn it," he hissed and placed his hand on the night table for balance as he examined his leg in the darkness.

He bit his lower lip in pain, but proceeded to the door that led to his bathroom. He slowly made his way, until he saw the welcoming dim light coming from the corners of the door. He adjusted his eyes to the soft light that gently flooded the bathroom and continued walking. When he was inside, he smiled contentedly at the burning candle that pointed the Fire Lord in to the right direction. He walked to the iron tub and wrinkled his nose. The water inside the tub was now too cold. He sank his fairly large hands into the cold water and gently motioned the water to dance around. He started to cool down momentarily; relax a bit. He searched around the room; it'd been so long since he'd enjoyed a royal bath. He looked for some soap to lather off the sweat and dirt of the previous day. He wanted to shed the worries and the memories of the vivid dreams he had of Toph in his arms. After looking for the soap, he rolled his eyes in annoyance, when he didn't find anything. He inhaled irritated and marched out of the room, flicking his hand in a swift movement that created a small flame of fire that lighted his path.

He exited his bedroom and trudged down the hall, his footsteps reverberating through the metal encapsulated walls. He was seething: the dream, the thought of Toph, and the memories of her departure annoyed him. All he wanted was a rejuvenating bath, a beautiful earthbender named Toph, and for this horrible four-week journey to be over. He didn't anticipate the discomfort of travelling by sea.

All he'd cared about was having Toph beside him. He wanted Rae to have a real family. He wanted Rae to know what happiness truly was. All Zuko could think about was his son and Toph. His kingdom occupied second place in his plans… all his goals shifted and his primary goal became Toph and their son. His nation was still important; but not as important as making Toph - the woman of his dreams – fall in love with him… He wanted them to be together. He was angry at his inability to turn back the hands of time. If he could go back in time, he would change so many things. Again, he felt like the vanished prince. He couldn't control the nagging feeling that tug at the pit of his stomach – it was the feeling that something was missing in his life…like he'd lost something.

He traipsed through the halls, until he could feel the cool night air blowing on his face. He rushed his steps, taking longer strides, until he was standing on the ship's deck. It was solitary. Not a single soul was visible. A dark, bleak, and moonless night was before him. His own gloomy feelings kept him company.

Zuko looked up at the sky and sighed. He felt a sense of relief flood through him. It was a serene night, overwhelmed with darkness. He sauntered to the ship's railing and tried to imagine the scenery as it would look during the daylight. He pictured his son's ochre eyes staring in fascination at the beautiful landscape. A secret smile curled the corners of his lips at the simple thought of his only son.

"Rae," Zuko said lovingly.

"Zuko? Why are you whispering Rae's name?" A familiar voice said.

Zuko twirled around, adjusting his eyes to the darkness. He thought that he was alone… but he'd been wrong. He opened his hand, a large flame appeared. He raised his arm, allowing the flame to create enough light to illuminate the deck. He saw Toph leaning against the metal wall, her arms crossed over her chest. Her midnight hair, tumble down her back like dark curtains. She emerged from the shadows and ambled to where he stood.

"What are you doing up?" he said worriedly, turning his face to her. "I thought that you were sick. I haven't seen you in a few days since we boarded the ship."

"I was sick… true," she said nonchalantly, placing her hands on the balustrade and overlooking the sea. She sighed; the motion of the boat was making her stomach queasy.

"Did Katara take good care of you?" He asked worriedly. He regarded her with those bright golden eyes. "I was worried. She didn't let me go into your room to check up on you."

"She took extremely good care of me. I told her not to let you in," she blushed.

"Why?" Zuko asked perplexed. "I was concerned for your health."

"I know. I know. I just didn't want you to see me look so sick." She knew that the Fire Lord was regarding her. She felt exposed. "I feel much better now, so there's no need to worry."

"I'm glad that you feel better, Toph," he said remorsefully. "I should have planned this journey thoroughly. I ignored Haru's comments. He did tell me that this was going to be the fastest way to get to the Fire Nation, but that it might make some people sick…"

"You don't have to worry anymore," she said caringly. "You did what you thought was right."

"Uncle Iroh was right," he huffed. "I should think things better."

"Don't blame yourself," she reassured him.

"I do blame myself, Toph," he began. "I was so focused in getting you and Rae to the Fire Nation that I forgot that you get seasick," he paused and placed a caring hand on her shoulder. Toph held her breath and concentrated on his touch. "I was so thrilled having you near me… that I didn't think about how seasick you tend to get…"

"It's all right," she said, moving away from him. "It's fine. This is one of the fastest methods of transportation, right?" she said casually.

"I guess," he nodded. "Those war balloons are even faster, but we didn't have any available."

"We should always keep one handy," she joked, leaning her cheek into Zuko's hand. "We can escape this boring ship and have an adventure of our own. You me and of course, Rae,"

"An adventure," he paused, a smile teasing the corner of his lips, "with the famous Blind Bandit and the Blue Spirit? I wonder what name Rae will choose for his alter ego." He laughed.

"It doesn't sound bad at all," she said, giggling. "Can you imagine our son growing up to be like us?" She chuckled.

"Yeah, I can imagine it. We are perfect together," he said, in a low guttural voice. He slowly moved away from her and gulped loudly. "I was thinking," I was thinking that I need you.

"Yes, Zuko?" she asked confused.

He took a step back and turned around, leaning his back against the balustrade. "I was thinking that maybe we should continue our journey through land. It'll make our trip longer, but," he said self-consciously, raking his fingers through his hair. "It'll be better for you. You won't shun me out of your side, because you don't want me to see a sick Toph."

"Don't wor-" she began.

"Toph," Zuko interjected and with exasperation sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I worry. Let me worry about you. You aren't alone anymore. You and Rae have me. I'm not going anywhere. I'm here… for you."

"I," she sighed, scratching her forehead in annoyance. "I know, Zuko. I don't know how, but I have a feeling that you won't abandon me. It's gonna be difficult. It'll take me a while to get used to all the attention that you are giving me."

Zuko chuckled and took a step closer to her, placing a hand on her hip. "Start getting used to it, Blind Bandit. I'm going to douse you with all my attention. You'll be treated like a queen at my kingdom."

"I don't want any special treatment, Zuko," she protested, but he silent her with a kiss. When he pulled away, she held his hands, that seemed to engulf hers and sighed. "We have to move..." she trailed off, dragging him towards the shadows. "Someone's coming."

"Who?" Zuko whispered, as he let her lead him to the dark corner.

"Katara and Haru," Toph said curtly. "They are at it again."

"What?" The Fire Lord asked confused as he let her guide him towards the corner of the deck, where the thick, nightly shadows could conceal them from the other couple.

Toph held on to Zuko's waist and pressed her cheek against his chest. She smiled knowingly, as his heartbeats increased. He gulped several times, adjusting his arms around her petite body. She felt safe; adored in his strong and muscular arms. She reveled in the comfort his presence provided. Zuko lowered his head, until his forehead rested on the crown of her head and closed his eyes. His body slowly rocked her, like the rhythm of the ship swayed with the ocean waves.

"Haru," Katara's voice filled the night.

Zuko tightened his hold around Toph and pressed her tighter to him. She lifted her head. Toph felt terrible for eavesdropping on her friend. She wanted to run back to her room, but she knew that her presence would mortify the young waterbender.

"Katara, listen to me," Haru begged, placing a hand on Katara's arm, causing her to spin around. "I can't hide this anymore. Be honest with me," he paused. "Are you embarrassed of me?" He asked seriously.

The waterbender swallowed and shook her head. "I'm not embarrassed of you," she said sadly, cupping his chin. "It's just…"

"It's just, what?" Haru said indifferently. "You want to protect Aang?" He said, his face held no emotion. "That's all you've done for the past seven years. You don't want to make him suffer and thus you hide what you feel for me. He's not a kid! If you want to be with me…" he trailed off and slowly released his hand from her arm. "If you want to be with me… tell me now. I've waited long enough." He muttered and turned and walked away.

Toph could hear Katara's soft sobs. She wanted to run to her friend and comfort her, just like Katara had comfort her in the past. She tried moving, but Zuko stopped her. She knew that he was right, Katara needed to be left alone to ponder her decision. Twenty minutes later, Katara stormed to her room, leaving the Fire Lord and Toph alone on the deck of the ship. They walked silently to their rooms, when Zuko stopped her and flushed her against the wall.

"What's wrong, Zuko?" she asked curiously. "You've been quiet all this time."

"Toph," he began, opening his hand and a small flame appeared. "If you and I…" he gulped nervously.

"What is it?" she asked intrigued. "What are you trying to ask me?"

"You like me, right?" He asked, glazing his free hand over his face in frustration.

She nodded peculiarly. "Yes, you know that I do. What are you trying to get at?"

Zuko pulled away and grabbed her by the hand and guided her to his room. Toph knew where he was taking her, she just went along. But deep down she was nervous. She wanted to be with the Fire Lord… but was she ready? Zuko opened the door to his room and gently ushered her inside. He closed the door behind them. He walked to his night table and lit a lonely candle. The candle light flickered softly, giving off an ethereal glow to the room . He walked back to where Toph stood and before the earthbender could open her mouth to protest, Zuko's lips were on hers.

The kiss was soft, filled with a myriad of emotions that she couldn't decipher. She could feel the need and desperation in his kiss. She gave in to the feeling; enjoying his warm and tantalizing kiss, when he abruptly pulled away.

"Toph," Zuko said exasperated. "If our friends were to know… about us… that we decided... Will you be embarrassed if you are seen with me?" Zuko asked hoarsely.

"What? Why are you asking me that?" Toph asked, her hand flying to her lips. "I-"

"Katara," he said and began pacing the room. "She definitely likes Haru, but she probably fears what others will think of her relationship with Haru… She dated Aang for so long… Maybe she feels protective of Aang's feelings and doesn't want to hurt him. Whatever it is… I want to know… will it bother you if our friends know that I intend to be with you. That we are starting a relationship; will that bother you?" Toph followed the weak seismic vibrations that the metal provided. "I know that I'm not handsome like Haru, Aang or even Sokka… Of course, that would be if you could see my face... but you can't see my face… I have a horrible scar that covers the left sid- I'm scarred. My father scarred my face in an Agni Kai for speaking out of turn-"

Toph angrily walked over to him and pulled his sleeve and forced him down to her level. "Listen well, Fire Lord," she said curtly, her voice clipped, as she grabbed his collar with her free hand. "I know your past! You are acting like the vanished prince again."

"And you are acting like a petulant kid... You are being selfish, Toph," Zuko hissed.

"I maybe acting like a petulant child," she said angrily. "I have issues to work through. I've been... I didn't have a good childhood."

"Neither did I!"

"I know," she said, closing her eyes and sighing. "Zuko, I don't want to argue with you. All we do is that. I'm tired of you reminding me that you have a scar on your face. I know that it's there," she said, her voice becoming softer. She gently ran a hand over the left side of his face, until it rested on the raised skinned. "I know who gave you that scar. I know that it was your father. He was the reason why you were so bent out of shape for so long, looking for the Avatar to redeem yourself; to gain your honor. I know… I know, Zuko." She said irritated and inhaled, lowering her face. "If I'm going to be with you…" she trailed off and pulled him to her and rested her forehead on his shoulder. "If I am going to be with you is not because of how you look. I'll be with you, because you can make me happy." She said, her voice becoming a whisper. "I'll be with you, because I feel like it. I don't care what other people say. I've never cared! I'm with you, because I can't imagine not being without you. We've been friends for so long... You gave me Rae and I can't thank you enough." She said softly, closing her eyes, silent tears begging to escape her eyes. She blinked quickly and stood her ground. Zuko remained still. "I can't imagine not being without you... for Rae's sake."

"I see," Zuko said bitterly and moved away. "You can't imagine not having me in Rae's life... I- ugh, um, think that you should go to your room, Toph. It's late and Rae might get upset if he wakes up and not find you in bed next to him."

"Rae's with Katara," Toph whispered, slowly releasing her hold of him. "He'll be safe. Look, I'll be leaving anyways." She grumbled.

He watched her exit his room and something inside him broke. He grunted and stomped around his room, raking his fingers through his hair. He felt frustrated. He didn't want to upset Toph. He really messed things up. He didn't want to end the night like this. He rushed after Toph; he finally made it to her room and apprehensively paced around the hall. He hesitated and reluctantly knocked on her door.