A MAN IN WHITE

by identPROXY

REPOST OF RETURN TO SOUTH POLESix years have passed since the fall of Ozai. A lone man dressed in white robes stands on deck as his ship approaches the southern water city, a staff in hand and a lemur perched on his shoulder...

2. A MAN IN WHITE

SUMMARY

Postwar fic. Six years have passed since the fall of Ozai. A lone man dressed in white robes stands on deck as his ship approaches the southern water city, a staff in hand and a lemur perched on his shoulder. His once youthful eyes have grown dark with pain and guilt. "At least they don't know who I am, huh Momo?"

Eventually katang, maiko. Aang is undercover rooting out rogue fire benders but before this adventure ends, more than one disguise will be removed. My first fic, really would like constructive criticism. Flames are cool too, but only of my writing and plot, not my choice in ships please.

-CHAPTER 1-

-A MAN IN WHITE-

A lone figure leans against the cold steel railing of the Fire Nation ship. His white robes seem to clash with the stark black surroundings, but no one notices. The other passengers are too busy talking amongst themselves to notice the quiet outsider. He leans against the railing,, holding his weight on his long wooden staff. The cold salt air biting at his cheeks was a welcome reminder that he had not been this far south in a long time, but he was glad: glad for the refreshing sting on his face, glad that he was finally away from the endless bickering of the nobles and royalty and glad that here no one knew who he was.

He had long since learned his lesson, and kept his arms and legs covered at all times. Long shaggy bangs covered his tattoo and some of his eyes as well, leaving only the slightest glimpse of his wear smoke colored eyes. The back of his palms were the real problem, but a pair of white gloves masked the blue nicely.

His disguise was perfect. For once Aang was just like everyone else, and he reveled in it. Normally, being the Avatar meant parades and cheers wherever he went. Every visit was a cause for celebration and without a real home to return to, there was never a break. It was funny, but for a man with the power to reshape the world as he saw fit, he could not manage a quiet evening sitting amongst the people, sipping tea in the corner of a tea shop. Not that it mattered; wishful thinking was not something he would indulge himself in. Not anymore.

As if on cue, Aang was pulled from his thoughts by a tugging on his left ear. He turned to see his lemur companion with what could only be described as a sad puppy dog look on his face. Aang reached into his sleeve and drew out another litchi nut and watched his sad puppy greedily devour its new treat. He smiled. It was not one of his signature grins, those had disappeared with his youth, but it was enough to catch the eye of a certain young woman who had been eyeing the mysterious man in white.

Momo had finished his snack and was preparing his best face to convince his master to give him another. An all-knowing Aang was just about to playfully reproach his lemur when a delicate hand broke his concentration. Aang turned to find a very attractive young fire noble holding out a litchi nut to a surprised but pleased lemur.

"He has quite the appetite, doesn't he?"

"Unfortunately, it's one that I indulge a little too often," replied Aang. "But how could you say no to that face?"

Momo chirped and returned to his feast.

The young woman smiled, " I'm Ayame." She held out her hand.

"Aang," he said as he gently took her hand. The name was rarely associated with the Avatar, so he felt safe being honest.

"Just like the avatar!"

Or so he thought…

"Heh, I hadn't noticed," was all he could muster. He turned to face the darkening horizon, eager to end yet another conversation that he had no interest in.

Ayame noticed him turn and retake his previous stoic gaze. "My father has just been appointed the new ambassador to the Southern Water Tribe, so our family is relocating. I hear it really is very beautiful, but I must admit I do not look forward to the cold."

"It's not so bad, you'll get used to it," Aang said, mustering a comforting smile before again turning away.

She smiled back, "So Aang, what about you? What brings you so far south?"

He hesitated, not really knowing. Why had he decided to come here? Officially, he was on business as the Avatar. A rogue group of firebenders had escaped their failed attempt at a coup and ran here. Normally, a coalition force would have been sent to track them down, and bring them to justice, but this time Aang decided he would go himself. Maybe he just needed a break from all the politics, but whatever the reason, the Council of Nations could not turn him down. After all the work he had done, how could they refuse the first request the Avatar had made in 6 years? (Author's Note: The Council of Nations is sort of a United Nation's formed by the Avatar after the fall of Ozai. It consists of 4 individuals, Avatar Aang, Fire Lord Iroh, Earth King ???? and Water Chief Hakoda.)

"Aang?" A soft voice brought him form his thoughts.

"Oh, Sorry. What did you say?"

"The reason for your visit…"

"Ah, yes. A bit of a holiday, I suppose. Needed a break from it all."

She smiled and, deciding to be a bit forward, she said, "Well…seeing as you're on vacation and you've been here before, maybe… you could… show me around after we dock… I don't really know where anything is."

The question caught Aang by surprise. "Perhaps… maybe… after I get settled…" He tried to hide his blush, but failed miserably. Even after all this time, he could not quite deal with the opposite gender. He had grown into quite a handsome young man, with hard features defined from years of training in the elements. His face had matured and grew sharp with age, but what was most alluring was his eyes; eyes that held so much mystery, wisdom and pain. At state functions, he was always attended by the most beautiful women present, and yet his first response was always to distance himself. Unfortunately for him, this particular tactic only made him that much more attractive to the young women and made his life that much more difficult.

Ayame, being a remarkably observant girl, noticed the pink in Aang's cheeks, and decided that rather than prolong his embarrassment, she would leave him to his own devices for a bit. "Great!" she said, "You can find me at the Fire Nation embassy." And with that she turned and left, leaving one very confused avatar and a rather sated lemur.

-CHAPTER 2-

-FIREBENDER-

Aang retrieved his small pack, and made his way through the disembarking crowd. The water nation dock was a sight to behold, spanning as far as the eye could see in both directions. For a moment, Aang was taken aback. In the back of his mind, he still expected to find a small encampment surrounded by Sokka's flimsy wall of loosely-packed snow. What he found was a towering city of glimmering ice. The main gate loomed before him several hundred feet in the air. Waterbenders were hard at work working the locks so the ships and cargo barges could be moved in. All around him, people were moving about, dragging their luggage to waiting family and friends. A wave of loneliness passed over him but left just as quickly, and the young avatar boldly set ahead to customs.

His customs officer was a brutish woman, whose first and only word was a brutish "PASSPORT!" Aang had an odd feeling of deja vu, but dismissed it as he addressed the middle-aged woman.

In the most judicious tone he could muster, he said, "I will give you my passport, but I must insist that you keep my identity a secret. I have important business, which would be compromised if I were to be recognized."

"Oh my, a celebrity." She responded, dripping with sarcasm. "Just like all the other nobles around here, thinking that they're something special. Hmpf. Just give me your passport."

"I'm sorry, but I must insist. I require your secrecy, do I have it or not?"

"Fine, fine, let's just keep this moving along. There's a long line of people behind you."

Aang nervously reached into his sleeve, drawing out his identification. He passed the parchment to the woman who snapped it up with a distinct air of impatience. She paused, and looked straight into Aang's face. Rapidly her eyes shifted between the parchment and the Avatar, a look of awe and reverence slowly building upon her face.

"I'm sorry my lord Avatar. I didn't recognize you."

"Think nothing of it, only remember your vow of secrecy. My presence here must not be known."

"Of course sir, I won't breathe a word of it to a soul." She returned the parchment, and bowed, making quite a stir amongst the other workers. "You honor us with your presence."

"You honor me with your courtesy." Aang replied, matching the depth and flourish of her bow.

As he left, he mused to himself, "For someone that is trying to downplay his presence, I sure did put on an act back there, didn't I, Momo?"

The Avatar smiled, as he walked on, not knowing exactly where he was heading. He ambled down the vast canals and ice bridges, marveling at the intricate work that had gone into creating such beauty. Master Paku and his students had lived up to their promise. With their hard work, the Southern Water Tribe had been reborn. The city was almost as busy as its dock with people hurrying about.

Aang had managed to stumble into some sort of market, and vendors' stalls surrounded him as far as the eyes could see. The last time he had seen such variety was back in the lower ring of Ba Sing Se. Wares from the Earth Kingdom and the Fire Nation were just as prevalent as the Water Tribe. It made him smile to see people from every nation together. No arguments, no battle, just people. Momo leapt off of his shoulder into the crowd, and Aang sighed. "He'll find me when he wants to."

It was hours later, and Aang began to feel the fatigue in the soles of his feet. Being in the presence of people who were not hounding him for something or other had been intoxicating, but his long hours of travel were catching up to him. He wandered to a nearby stall and found a kindly old woman tending to a soft fire.

"Excuse me Ma'am".

"Oh, how can I help you sonny?" The old woman replied.

"I was wondering if you could point me in the direction of an inn. I just arrived, and am in need of a place to stay."

"Oh, of course. There's one just down the way across the bridge. Are you here for the water bending tournament?"

"Tournament?"

"Yes the annual tournament, held by master Katara. The main event is tomorrow. They say she will actually be bending tomorrow."

Aang froze when he heard the name. "Katara…" It was a name he hadn't heard in years. He had not thought that he would see her, but in hindsight, how could he not have known? Of course Katara would be here. This was her home. But, why had he not realized it until now? With glassy eyes, Aang thanked the old woman and gave her a gold piece for her trouble. He left the stall in a daze not quite knowing how he felt about the prospect of seeing Katara again. So many memories, so much pain. He still loved her, that much would never change. Night after night, he had dreams of living peacefully with her, raising their children, traveling the world, and growing old together. Thoughts ran back and forth across his brain. He wanted to see her so badly, and he had not realized how desperate his need was until just now. Perhaps this was why his subconscious wanted him to come here. But why now, why after 6 years? Would she still look at him with those cold eyes….

Aang was jarred from his memories by a terrible scream. He looked in the direction of the sound and heard the faint sounds of crying. His air bending prowess had not diminished and without a moments' hesitation, he leaped toward the cries. His speed was unfathomable, and being clad in white he was nearly invisible to the casual observer. He quickly found his way to a sort of park. An area of the city was left un-developed so that children could play. A small crowd of children were surrounding a young girl. She was lying on the ground with one leg stretched before her.

To the children, the man in white had appeared out of nowhere, as if by magic. Aang landed with a flourish creating a small cloud of snow and quickly knelt before the injured child.

"Where does it hurt?" He asked.

The child pointed to her shin through blurry eyes. Aang placed a hand over the injury and instantly felt the fractured bone. Bending some nearby snow into water, he deftly healed the injury. It was one of those advanced skills that he had learned like metal bending and shooting lightening. Feeling confident in his work, Aang applied some pressure and asked her if it hurt. The young girl's face lit up as she shook her head "no". It was then that Aang noticed that she was shivering, and her fingers were just the slightest shade of blue. He looked for something to cover her in, but found nothing around him. Acting on instinct, he gathered the young child in his arms and wrapped her in his robes. He sat cross legged, and surrounded himself in a ring of fire. The air around him warmed quickly, and the child's color began to return. When he saw the little hint of rose blossoming in her cheeks, he knew she would be just fine. With a few gentle words, Aang set her down and dropped his nest of fire.

Her smiling face was quickly snapped away by a very angry looking woman.

"You unhand her!" She screamed.

Other voices joined the ruckus, and Aang turned to find himself surrounded by angry villagers. Some were holding their children defensively, others were spitting out profanities.

"Damned firebenders! Why don't you go back home!"

"We don't want your kind around here, war monger!"

The crowd was closing in on him, and Aang was becoming nervous. The voices were surrounding him. When the crowd started chanting "Murderer!" Aang's mind flashed back. The day of the final battle. Such a terrible price to pay to end that war. His own consciousness joined in with the crowd. "You're a murderer Aang! You can't deny it."

-CHAPTER 3-

-THE FALL OF OZAI-

The avatar screamed. It was a scream of pain and fury. In an instant he was consumed by flames, and was gone. One of the many tricks he learned to escape a crowd was to ignite a column of air around him and distract people while he flew away. The trick worked, and a visibly shaken avatar watched from a distance as the angry crowd dispersed.

When it grew quiet, again, Aang collapsed, silent tears streaming down his cheeks. The exhausted young man fell into unconsciousness. It was a dream that he had had many times before. The day of black sun had come and gone. While the Earth Kingdom and Water Tribes launched a successful offensive, they could not fight their way to the palace in the short amount of time. The allied nations had a foothold on Fire Nation ground and from there had launched a series of sieges led by none other than the Avatar. While he was not yet a fire bending master, Prince Zuko had taught him a fair bit. He used what skill he had along with the power he summoned from the Avatar state to crush the Fire Nation's defenses.

Before every battle he vowed to disarm and defeat without killing. As if to pay homage to his fallen air bending brethren, he would not take a life, and to that vow he stayed true. That was until the last siege. Time had grown short. Sozins' comet's arrival was imminent, and if Fire Lord Ozai was not defeated, then it would spell disaster. All of the allied forces were poured into the effort. Battalions of fire benders and soldiers were sent to defend, but as the day progressed, it was clear that the firebenders could not hold out. Allied forces surrounded the palace. Sokka, Toph, Zuko, Katara and himself were chosen as the strike force. The others would take on Azula and the remaining elite guard while Aang confronted the Fire Lord himself.

The fighting was furious, Katara and Azula were evenly matched, and both Toph and Sokka were doing their best to hold their own. Mai and Ty Lee had already been imprisoned for betraying Ozai in Zuko's defection, and the two were locked in the dungeons. Zuko split from the rest, determined to rescue Mai and Ty lee (mostly Mai), leaving Aang to forge on, alone. He entered the throne room to find a shadowed figure sitting before him. His eyes shone an eerie blue confirming Aang's worst fear: the Fire Lord had harnessed the power of Sozins' comet. Without warning, a powerful bolt of lightening blew past him destroying the doors behind him. Knowing he had no hope of defeating him normally, Aang summoned his Avatar state. His tattoos and eyes were glowing brightly and his face adopted a look of furious determination.

The battle was devastating. The first few blows had destroyed the throne room. Warriors on both sides stopped and watched this battle of titans. Lightening was streaming continuously from Ozai's hands. Aang had adopted a shield of water that insulated him while he dealt terrible fire balls and quaked the ground beneath them. Aang was being beaten relentlessly. All of his attacks were proving futile, while all of Ozai's were proving lethal. His previous incarnations were screaming at him what he must do. His vow would have to be broken. This battle would not end until one of them had died.

The two had worked their way to the palace ballroom, destroying everything in their wake. Aang was burnt badly and bleeding from several wounds. Ozai's relentless waves of fire were becoming harder and harder to avoid. In a final act of desperation, Aang summoned two fierce tentacles of earth and grounded Ozai's hands, lifting him high into the sky. The trapped Fire Lord screamed a terrible scream as Aang summoned his power. The electricity surged from Aang's body and in an instant he had released it. The spark arced across the room and stuck the Fire Lord in the heart. His body went limp and collapsed. Aang fell to his knees exhausted. It was then that he had finally heard the screaming. Behind him, was Zuko, hunched over in grief. Aang's eyes met his and the pain drove straight to his heart. Aang did not think he could live with what he had done. That was when he saw Katara as she rushed to Zuko's side. Her eyes flashed towards Aang and he saw nothing but cold anger. In that moment, the Avatar died inside. His once open and loving heart had frozen completely.

Aang fell into unconsciousness, exhausted from the battle, and emotionally broken.

-CHAPTER 4-

-THE PHOENIX-

When Aang opened his eyes he found himself right where he left off, hunched over in a snow bank overlooking the park where he had found that child. The sun had already set, and the sky was lit with stars, and a bright full moon. He stood, stretching his stiff muscles as he became upright. The afternoons' events, and his vivid flashback still rang clearly in his mind and it unsettled him. He needed calm, maybe a cup of tea, but the shops had already closed. Sighing he decided that some bending would relax him. He had long ago adopted a practice of focusing his mind on a bending task to forget the worries of his political life, and while his current uneasiness was hardly a political matter, perhaps it could be calmed in a similar fashion.

Seeing a bright full moon, Aang chose the hardest form he could think of. The phoenix was a high level fire bending form where the bender controls a large whip of fire with the face of a dragon. It was exhausting and strenuous, even in the middle of a sunny day let alone at this time of night. Aang entered his stance and allowed a long column of fire to rise from his upturned palms. The column grew and began to snake out in a large "S". As Aang slowly moved his arms about, the whip took to life. The fire swayed with its bender as the head slowly began to form. With swift motions, he launched the dragon and sent it high into the air, a blazing trail following it into the night. The dragon seemed to take on a life of its own as it danced high in the sky, swirling and coiling about itself. Near the end it split, and split again leaving Aang to control four independent entities that weaved and coiled around each other. The spectacle went on for nearly ten minutes before Aang drew a final breath and quickly drew his palms together. The flying serpents went into their death throws almost collapsing in on themselves and right when all but a glimmer of light had died out, a brilliant explosion lit the sky. A flaming bird swooped across the night sky circling Aang and died in his hands.

Aang sighed, "That was exhausting, but it sure did the trick." A small smile crept on his face as he caught his breath. After a brief silence, he heard a pair of small hands clapping. He turned to see none other than the little girl from the afternoon.

"That was amazing!" She cried. "Do it again!"

"Oh, it's you. What are you doing here so late? Shouldn't you be at home?"

"Mommy was angry with me for playing with you, so I went to find Daddy at the docks and got lost. Everything looks different in the night time." The little girl frowned.

Aang could see the fear in her face, and after a moments' pause, he swooped her onto his shoulder.

"Do you remember where you live?" Aang asked, lifting her high in the air and spinning around in a circle for her.

"THERE! By the big tower near the bridge."

"All right then, let's go!" and the two set off into the night. Aang couldn't help but smile.

-CHAPTER 5-

-AN INN?-

They walked along moonlit canals, every once in a while stopping so Aang could get his bearings. He felt the nervous glances being thrown his way by his frightened companion.

In an effort to break the awkward silence he finally spoke. "So I never asked you your name."

"Rin, how about you?" She sheepishly replied.

"My name is Aang. It's very nice to meet you, Rin."

Aang was glad when he felt Rin relax slightly and snuggle into his neck. There was another long silence before Aang tried to speak again. He did not have much experience around children so this was all a bit new to him. He was about to turn to ask if they were close, but noticed that Rin had already fallen asleep. He lowered her down from his shoulders and held her in his arms. "Poor girl must be exhausted."

When he reached the tower, he debated on whether he should wake her and ask which house was hers, but in the end she looked so peaceful that Aang could not bring himself to do it. He looked for a fire that was still lit, and knocked politely at the entryway. A young woman came to the door and was surprised to see a mysterious young man clad in white, holding a child.

"Pardon me miss, but do you know whose child this is? She said she lived around here but fell asleep before she could tell me which house was hers." Aang turned slightly so the woman could see Rin's face.

"Oh, Rin! Her family lives down there, third on the right. Her mother has been worried sick. Thank you."

Aang walked down the street and knocked on the specified entryway. A frantic woman came to the door, and screamed with relief.

"Rin!" She scooped her baby into her arms, jogging her slightly from her sleep.

"You're… Rin's mother I take it?" Aang said with a broad smile.

The woman looked up, apparently having forgotten the stranger who had brought her child back. "Yes, oh thank you sir, thank you so much for returning my daughter. I was just making some dinner and the next thing I knew she ran off. I was so scared…" She broke into tears.

Taking his most reassuring avatar tone, he tried to comfort her. "Come come, it's all right now. Everyone is safe and sound, back where they belong." Aang's smile grew even broader.

The woman regained her composure and returned the warm smile. "Please come in. You must be freezing out there."

Aang hesitated, remembering what Rin had said about getting in trouble earlier. "No I really shouldn't. It is so late I wouldn't want to trouble you."

"Nonsense, it's no trouble at all. It's the least I can offer you for rescuing my Rin."

Aang decided not to press the issue. "Well, maybe for a bit."

The young woman beckoned him to sit by the fire while she tucked Rin in her bedroom. She offered him a cup of tea as they sat by the hearth.

"I'm sorry I didn't introduce myself, my name is Reika."

"Aang" he replied.

"I haven't seen you in the city before. Are you a traveler?"

"Of sorts. I'm on a bit of a vacation. I just arrived today actually."

"Oh and my Rin has already troubled you. I am so sorry. Where are you staying?"

Aang paused. He had forgotten to check in at that inn. It would be much too late now. "I think I'll be camping out this evening. I never got around to finding an inn. He he."

"Oh but it gets so cold, I cannot possibly allow such a foolish act. You will stay here as our guest."

To this, Aang vehemently objected. "I'll be fine out there. I'm used to the cold. You don't want to put up with me for a night. I hear I snore terribly. It's simply out of the question." Aang was getting desperate, this kind woman would not be too happy to find out the he was the supposed firebender from this afternoon. Nothing good could come of this.

"Nonsense, I will not hear of it. You will be our guest tonight and that is that." She said with a tone of finality.

Unbeknownst to Aang and Reika, their little argument had gained an audience. Reika's eldest daughter, Mei, had wandered in, wondering what the commotion was about, and what she saw made her scream.

"Mother, it's him! It's that firebender from the park!" She screamed taking a defensive hold of her mother's arm.

A stunned Reika stepped back, a look of shock and disgust across her face. Aang knew it was over right then and there. The proverbial jig was up. He bowed low and apologized. "I'm sorry, I should have told you earlier. I meant no deception. I will take my leave. Thank you for your hospitality." As Aang raised himself upright, he grabbed his pack and staff and quietly turned to the door. He knew this would happen. He knew he should have refused her first offer and left straight away. She was just so final about it, and it was nice feeling her motherly concern for his wellbeing. Sometimes he was so stupid.

Aang's graceful strides were cut short as a hand grabbed his sleeve. He turned to see Reika, her eyes shamefully lowered.

"I'm sorry, please forgive my response… I have never met a firebender in person who wasn't trying to kill me. The war took my husband and I guess haven't forgiven the Fire Nation yet. I doubt I ever will… but that is no reason to turn a decent young man out to the cold. Regardless of your past, you took care of my Rin today, and for that I am grateful."

Aang turned to meet her face and saw no malice.

"If you wish, my offer still stands. I think you will find that our futon is much more comfortable than the snow banks outside." To Aang's relief she wore a smile, and after a moments' consideration he set down his pack and bowed low.

"I gratefully accept your offer."

Reika turned to Mei, "Mei, go and set up the futon for our guest."

"Yes mother." Mei glaring at Aang before scurrying off to a back room.

"Please follow my daughter. She will take care of you."

Aang turned and bowed once again. "Thank you for your kindness" and he turned to follow Mei.

At the end of a short corridor, Aang found Mei had already drawn and set a futon and was working, unsuccessfully, on setting a small fire. Aang drew near and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Allow me." He said as he flicked his wrist and a roaring fire appeared. Mei turned and scooted away slightly, offering a quiet "thank you." In the firelight, Aang got a good his first good look at Mei, and found that she was quite a sight. She must have been at least as old as he was. Long dark hair cascaded down her slim figure to the small of her back. Her eyes were a deep cerulean and sparkled in the dim light. Her face was a shade darker than Aang's but still pale for a water nation girl. He saw the hint of fear hidden in the girl's eyes and he knew his presence was making her uncomfortable. Trying to break the awkward silence he said,

"We haven't been properly introduced. My name is Aang, and I believe your mother said you were…. Mei was it?"

Mei nodded silently.

"Well it is very nice to meet you Mei, thank you for setting all of this up for me," Aang said as he pointed to the futon. He could see that she was feeling a little more comfortable so he sat down and took a very non-aggressive stance. Her eyes clearly reflected the battle going on in her mind. Stay or leave, what to do?

After a short silence, she spoke. "I've never met a real firebender before." Another silence filled the room before she continued. "Did you fight in the war?"

Aang hesitated, but decided he had deceived these people enough for one evening. "Yes" he said in a solemn tone.

There was another long pause before Mei spoke again. "Have you ever….ever…killed anyone?" Her eyes were fixed on the fire beside her.

Aang drew his knees to his chest and sighed. "Only once, and only because I had no other choice. I wish it hadn't come to that."

Mei saw Aang's eyes grow darker as he stared off into space. She could see the pain in his visage. A sudden surprising sympathy rose in her. This man who she should be scared of, who she should hate, was sitting before her and all she could feel was sympathy. His eyes held a perpetual sadness, a burden of guilt unparalleled in this world.

"My father was killed by firebenders," was all she could manage to mumble.

Aang drew in a quick breath, the guilt in his eyes jumping ten fold. "I am so sorry for what you have lost. The war was a terrible tragedy. It should never have been allowed to go this far…." Aang's voice died off and cast his eyes toward the fire.

The two sat in silence for what seemed like decades. Mei finally turned and broke the silence. "You must be tired after all of your traveling. I will leave you to rest. If you need anything I am in the next room." Mei bowed and left. Aang sat in silence, lost in his own thoughts and never saw her leave. When he finally did take notice, he muttered one last apology under his breath and got ready for bed.

-CHAPTER 6-

-AVATAR-

Aang slowly removed his robes, his muscles finally feeling his long day of travel. He laid his gloves by his pillow and before settling in, he quickly placed a wall of ice at his doorway. After all, it would not do to have one of his hosts wander in and see his tattoos. As soon as Aang had laid his head down, his fatigued form fell into a sweet unconsciousness.

Mei lasted a good half hour before her curiosity got the better of her. She quietly slinked from her room and tiptoed to Aang's door. She was more than a little surprised to see that behind the thick fabric that hung in the doorway was a newly formed wall of ice.

"Where did this come from?" She asked nobody in particular.

Her curiosity was nearing its limit and she decided that now would be a good time to put her water bending skills to the test. She took her stance and quickly drew both of her hands downward.

Aang awoke to an ear shattering shriek followed by a considerable shaking. He opened his eyes to see a very terrified Mei trapped beneath the several shards of ice that was once his door. Mei's attempt at bringing down his wall had been less than successful, and a now terrified Mei was dangerously close to being crushed to death.

Aang leapt into action. With several swift motions, the ice chunks had been cleared to the corner and Aang had moved a shivering Mei to the fire. As she sat huddled by the fire, a concerned Reika came running, wondering what had happened. What she found was a terrified daughter and a half naked avatar (though she didn't know it yet), and was not exactly pleased.

Aang, realizing his nakedness, hurriedly threw his robes on hoping the two had been too distracted to notice his tattoos. Reika was crouched over her huddled daughter before she spoke.

"What is the meaning of this?" Her voice was laced with a deadly undertone.

A flustered Aang tried to respond, "She must have been water bending. I woke up and she was buried under that mountain of ice." Aang pointed to the corner. "I rushed and dug her out and moved her to the fire when you came running. I swear to you on my honor that I speak the truth."

Reika turned to her daughter who confirmed the story with a feeble nod.

"Mei, what were you doing water bending in here?"

Reika waited for her daughter's response but for some reason she was concentrating on Aang.

"Mei, what is it? Answer my question. What were you doing?"

Her mother's harsh tone finally brought her out of her daze. "Mother… his hands."

"What about his hands?" Reika snapped as she turned to examine her guest.

Aang realized too late that he had forgotten his gloves. His tattoos were showing. Damn. He hurriedly brought his sleeves together in a last ditch effort of preserving his disguise.

It was too late. Reika had seen and the realization washed over her face.

"A..a..avat..ar…" was all she could manage.

The two women stared dumbly at Aang, as the reality of their situation set in.

Aang waited, but as the two women in the room were clearly dumbstruck and probably going to stay that way, he decided an explanation was in order. Taking on the formal tone that so easily came to him, he said,

"I apologize for my deception, I meant no disrespect. I came to the South Pole in order to track down certain fugitives who seek to disturb the fragile peace between nations. It was necessary for me to disguise myself so as to not draw attention. The Avatar's presence would have put these men on edge and made them that much more dangerous to the public. I implore you both to protect my secret for the sake of the people of this city."

Aang stood there, waiting for a response. His face did not betray the nervousness beneath its surface. Reika was first to respond. She stood and bowed deeply.

"It is an honor to serve you, my lord Avatar. Your presence here shall remain unknown for as long as you wish it."

Aang was relieved but at the same time disappointed. He was enjoying being treated like a regular person and now that was ruined. He remembered days long past when he was with Sokka, Toph and Katara. He remembered when he was just Aang, or occasionally 'twinkle toes'. But that was in the past, and his duty made such indulgences impossible. He must uphold the dignity of his position… but perhaps his little vacation could last a little bit longer.

Aang straightened his bowed form and looked towards Reika. "I thank you for your help, but if you could please do not address me with such respect. It does not seem fitting for a wanderer such as myself to be addressed in such a manner. It would draw suspicion. If you would, just call me Aang. I would greatly appreciate it."

"Of course a…aang, anything to be of help."

Reika brought Mei to her feet and moved to the door. "We have interrupted your rest for long enough. Please have a good night."

Mei lingered behind her mother and before leaving, and turned to say, "Th…thank you for saving me ava….aang"

Aang stood staring into the fire. "It has only been one day…" Aang sighed, and went back to sleep.

-CHAPTER 6.5-

-RITUAL-

Katara awoke as the sun just began to peek over the great wall. She yawned as she slowly stretched herself awake. The air was chilly and the prospect of staying in bed and under the covers was quite appealing, but today was the day of the tournament. She would have to make an appearance, and undoubtedly fight that idiot again. Alas such is the life of a master waterbender.

She threw on a thick robe and moved to stoke the fire. As her bedchambers warmed, she bended her bathwater into the large porcelain tub (a gift from the Earth King from years ago.) She undressed and slowly lowered herself into the water, bending the currents around her to make sure it was not too hot. She soaked leisurely while bending the water around her fingers in amusement.

As the water began to cool, she stood and bent the excess water from her skin. Her robes were already laid out, the same as she always wore. She did up her wrappings and quickly donned the warming fabric.

Next was her hair, which she brushed meticulously before doing her hair loopies and decorative braids down the length of her back. After that came her mother's necklace clasped delicately around her neck. And lastly there was Aang's necklace, which she wrapped around her wrist and tucked safely out of sight. She had made a point to wear it every day since she saw him fall unconscious after that final battle.

Even now, after six years, it still brought a tear to her eye. She had grown to love her avatar. At first it was motherly, feeling the need to protect him. But as he grew more powerful she realized that more than likely it would be him protecting her. He was destined to save the world, and he gave so much of himself to do it. She did not know when her love became romantic, but on the day of the last battle all she had wanted to do was kiss him once; to let him know how she felt about him, but that had never happened.

When he left without saying goodbye, it had broken her. She felt betrayed and abandoned and beneath it all, she still loved him. Over time, the pain dimmed and she began to hear tales of the Avatar's deeds; his continuing fight against oppression and evil, even his injuries while saving innocents from disasters the world over. Everything she heard made her miss him that much more. She still awoke in the middle of the night, having nightmares of him, dying off alone somewhere. In her heart, she knew she would never forget him, and never stop loving him, and it killed her that he would never be hers. Still, she resigned herself to keep living her life as best as she could so that maybe one day she might find happiness.

She touched his necklace one last time, and set off to begin her day.

-CHAPTER 7-

-TOURNAMENT-

Aang woke up to an enticing aroma all around him. He had not eaten since he left the ship making the scent all the more attractive. Aang crawled out of his bed and, using an old bending trick that he had learned, liquified a mass of ice from outside his window and proceeded to clean himself and his clothing. It was a simple task, but it left him quite refreshed. He donned his robe and gloves and decided to let his nose lead the way. He found Mei sitting by the fire stirring something that looked like a stew. Whatever it was, it looked delicious and Aang silently prayed hoping there was no meat present. Cursed meat, depriving me of so many meals…

"Good morning." He managed politely, his growing hunger being quite evident.

Mei looked up with a start, "A…aa.. avatar Aang.. Good morning. Did you sleep well?"

Aang slowly crossed to her and sat down. "Yes, the most refreshing nights' sleep I've had in ages. What have you got there? Not stewed sea prunes I hope" He asked pointing at the pot and smiling.

She cast her eyes aside, "Just some vegetable stew. I thought… that you might be hungry after your trip and I knew that the avatar refrained from meat and I didn't know what else you would like. Not that you would like this. It's just a simple stew, but if you're hungry, not that you should be, but if you are, you could…"

"I would love some stew." Aang interrupted before the flustered girl dug herself into a deeper hole.

"Really, I'll get a bowl!"

Breakfast past smoothly, with Mei slowly getting used to idle conversation with the man that saved the world. They talked of his travels and her hobbies, quite a bit focusing on bending. Aang came to learn that Mei was a water bender in training and was looking for a master. He also learned that Katara had made quite a name for herself.

"The most powerful water bender from both poles eh?" Aang smirked.

"Oh yes, she is very talented. They say her octopus form can support a hundred tentacles! I can't wait to see her this afternoon at the tournament."

At that moment Reika came in, arms full of various fruits and vegetables.

"Good morning ava….Aang, did you sleep well?" Reika asked setting down her load.

"Wonderfully, but I wouldn't want to impose on your hospitality any longer. I'll set off for an inn once I finish your daughter's delicious stew." Aang replied.

Mei blushed and cast her eyes to the floor.

"Oh, it has been no trouble at all. You are free to stay as long as you'd like." Reika's smile was honest and refreshing, not like the smiles he got from those politicians.

"No I'm afraid I must set off. Duties to attend to and all. I will ask, however, if before I leave, if I could have the pleasure of escorting lady Mei to today's water bending tournament."

Aang's gracious bow elicited another deep blush from Mei's cheeks. All she could manage was a flustered "I'd be honored" while quickly meeting Aang's eyes and avoiding them again. Aang was already planning on catching a glimpse of Katara, and after all the disturbance he had caused, it would only be fair for him to be Mei's escort as a thank you of sorts.

Aang grabbed his pack and offered Mei his arm which she graciously accepted.

Reika smiled. "Take care of yourselves, and Mei, be home before dark."

The two young adults looked oddly like a couple, Mei hanging off of Aang's arm, both laughing and smiling as they walked though the city's streets. Mei had taken quite a shine towards the young avatar, and now that she'd overcome her nervousness, she was playing quite the flirt. This time it was Aang's turn to be awkward.

The sun shone in a beautifully clear sky as Mei led the two to the tournament grounds on the other side of the city.

"I am so excited to see Master Katara in person. I would love to be her student…"

Aang smiled, "Well you know once upon a time, Katara and I were good friends. I might be able to ask her for a favor…"

"Really? Would you?" Hope was streaming from her eyes.

"Well, I can try at least. I'm not sure if she'll even speak to me now that it's been so long…" A look of despondency set into Aang's eyes.

The two walked the rest of the way in a companionable silence.

The crowd grew thick as the two made their way to the main stage. Aang's peculiar attire made it easier for the two to make their way forward. Having staked out a suitable claim, Mei ran off in search of the usual event fare: some miscellaneous meat on a stick no less. Aang decided to make himself comfortable, the surrounding spectators keeping a safe distance as they found their own places.

The tournament began just as Mei returned to find a place by Aang. It was an open tournament very similar to the annual Earth Rumble events he had attended before. Despite the relative equality between male and female water benders, the tournament seemed to be dominated by men. One by one they took the stage and faced each other, the winner staying on to face the next competitor.

Aang had to be impressed by some of the originality that was displayed, but the warrior in him dismissed them as no real threat. It was not long before one bender stood out as the dominant force in the tournament. He called himself the Blizzard, a failed attempt at intimidation, Aang mused. His name aside, The Blizzard was quite a skilled bender. Instead of simply deflecting and redirecting his opponent's attacks, he was also able to summon quite a bit of force in his own right. His ice daggers were especially dangerous and unlike most of the other competitors, it seemed like he was not afraid to shed some blood.

As the Blizzard continued to make a spectacle of his shows of strength, the number of new volunteers quickly diminished. When it was clear that he was the victor, the announcer took the stage.

"Well it seems as if we have a winner! As such, he has earned the right to challenge our resident champion!"

The crowd erupted in cheers as Katara took the stage. Aang was floored. The vision before him was surreal. He had not expected her to be so beautiful. She wore robes similar to those when they were fighting together, but they were longer, somehow more elegant. And she had grown… how she had grown. She was not as tall as Aang, but reached his chin easily. Her hair was done in a braid that ran to the small of her back. Her figure had adopted a definite hourglass shape and Aang was hard pressed to draw his eyes away from the sway of her hips or the swell of her chest. As his eyes traveled upwards, he saw the exposed skin of her delicate neck still being framed by her mother's necklace. Her smile was what truly astonished him, specifically its ability to melt through him, even after all of these years. There was still so much kindness in her face but her eyes were duller than he remembered. A sadness was weighing her down and clouding those beautiful azure pools.

Katara and the Blizzard squared off. The Blizzard laughed a hearty, deep laugh. "I will claim my prize this time."

"You've said that before. I'll try not to hurt you this time." Katara smiled.

Aang turned to Mei and asked, "What is he talking about?"

Mei turned and smirked, "The Blizzard has been trying to beat Master Katara for four years now since the first tournament. He's her fiancé, but she doesn't want to be married. They made an agreement that if she lost to him in the tournament, she would consent to the betrothal."

Aang grew livid. Fiancé! How could Katara have a fiancé?

The two benders on stage took their stances and without hesitation began their battle. The Blizzard released a barrage of his ice daggers that were quickly parried by Katara's octopus form. The Blizzard shifted to water whips, but found them equally ineffective. Katara remained serene and had yet to even bother attacking. She knew he was not a real threat. The Blizzard tried to shake her stance by breaking the stage into chunks but was chagrined to see Katara draw water between the fissures to reform the stage. As the battle was drawn out, the Blizzard realized he would not be victorious. But he had planned for this contingency. This year he would win… even if he had to cheat to do it.

He let loose one last barrage of daggers, but this time while most of them were aimed at Katara, three were aimed at the arch of the levy behind her.

Aang followed the projectiles as they found their marks in three points that had been intentionally weakened. The giant walls of the levy started to crack. The debris would catch Katara's undefended side and give the Blizzard the opening he needed. What he had not considered, however, was that the wall could collapse entirely, releasing the full weight of the ocean on the innocent spectators. Instead of the ice debris gently tumbling towards the stage, it was being hurled at full speed with the force of an entire ocean behind it. As water spewed through the cracks, Katara turned and realized her predicament. Aang knew that the water would take out a good bit of the audience as well, and instinct took over. Before Katara had realized the gravity of her situation, Aang had leapt from his seat, staff in hand. In one swift motion he scooped Katara into his arms and let loose a mighty blow into the stage. The floor erupted into an icy wall pointed against the incoming deluge. The wall bought him enough time to bring Katara to safety and gather his power for what came next. As the water rushed over Aang's ice wall and towards the audience, Aang took a strong stance, and froze the giant wave in place.

The crest towered 30 feet above the audience as they prepared to be hit. But the wave never came. They all turned to the sky and saw the wall of water, its fury frozen before their very eyes, and they turned to Aang and they started to cheer. The Blizzard took the opportunity to flee what would surely become an angry mob when they realized what had happened. Aang turned his attention to Katara, and rushed to her side.

He kneeled beside her placing an arm on her back to hold her steady. His free hand moved instinctively to cup her cheek and turn her eyes toward his.

"Katara, are you hurt?"

-CHAPTER 8-

-AANG?-

She was still in a state of shock. That wall of ice should have killed her. Why didn't it kill her? She heard a voice in the distance and felt a warmth on her cheek. Her head was turning, her eyes were focusing. There were two smoke colored eyes. They looked so familiar.

"Katara, are you all right? Can you hear me?"

The voice was becoming clearer and so was the face. There was so much concern in his stare. That face seemed so familiar. She knew that face.

"Please Katara, answer me. Tell me you're okay."

It couldn't be. Could it? Was that really him?

Katara nodded a response but could not summon the words to go with it. Aang was relieved and grinned one of his signature boyish grins.

That was it. That was his smile. It really was Aang. He was stilling cupping her cheek and Katara moved to place her hand over his. She could not believe it. There he was after six years, strong and handsome and saving her from danger.

"Aang?"

Aang's grin fell to a soft smile. "I've missed you Katara."

Katara could not hold back her tears any longer. She threw her arms around him and cried, cried like she hadn't cried in six years.

There were no words as he held her. The feeling of Katara in his arms overwhelmed his emotions. He cried, only a few tears, but they were filled with joy and guilt and longing and all of the other emotions he had long since hidden away.

She buried her face in his shoulder and let the tears flow. Katara mumbled into his robes.

"Is it really you?"

Aang nodded and said, "Hello Katara."

Katara stared into his eyes, not knowing what to say. As she slowly regained her senses, she realized that this tearful reunion still had an audience. All around them the cheers had long since died away and the audience fell to a quiet silence. Katara was a bit of legend in the city. She had fought along side the Avatar and saved the world from the fire nation. She had lived in the city since the fall of Ozai, and helped the masters in the original construction efforts. She was a beacon of strength, meeting every situation with a smile and a positive attitude. But here she was, frail and weak, in the arms of the mysterious man who had just saved them. She was not the legend, she was just another soul saved from the brink of disaster.

Katara grew self conscious and, realizing her intimate pose with Aang, started to blush. She stumbled to her feet with Aang's assistance and summoned her most authoritarian tone. "All non benders please clear the area. All healers make your way to the rear of the stage to treat the wounded. The rest of you please start clearing the debris and look for anyone trapped in the ice."

Katara stood to watch as people moved to their assigned locations. Now what should she do? Aang was here. Oh boy was he here. She was just being held tightly in his arms. What should she say? How would she act? She stood there, frozen.

Aang was startled when she had moved to stand. Without making eye contact, she turned to address the crowd. After her statement she stood, frozen in place shoulders square against his gaze. He waited for a sign that she would turn back, that she would speak to him, but after minutes of silence, his hopes had fallen. He was a fool to think she would forgive him for abandoning her for six years. He had no right to expect anything from her. He was the one that ran. He was the one that never returned her letters. Realizing what a horrible position he had put her in, Aang moved to apologize. He placed a hand on her shoulder.

"I'll leave you to your work… It was very nice seeing you again Katara…"

She turned suddenly.

"You're leaving… again…" her voice died out. He had already turned to leave when she acted.

"Wait! Please… I haven't seen you in so long. Could we… talk… maybe over a cup of tea?"

She hated herself for being so awkward. She had long past grown out of this phase hadn't she?

Aang stopped dead in his tracks. Had she just said she wanted to talk? He turned slowly, seeing…. desperation in her eyes.

He smiled and said, "I'd really like that."

-CHAPTER 9-

-HER EYES-

The tea house was a short walk from the stage. The two sat in the corner, far from prying eyes, not that there were any in the desolate shop. Katara had still not been able to say anything and Aang had apparently become mesmerized by the steam from his tea.

"Why?" Katara stared at him waiting for a response.

"Why did you just leave? Why didn't you find me? Why didn't you return any of my letters? What happened to you Aang?"

Aang did not move to respond. He fixed his eyes on the rising steam as it danced and disappeared. He'd spent many late nights pondering what he would say to her, but his thoughts fled him. He was alone and unprepared.

"I'm sorry. I didn't….I couldn't……" he took a deep breath, "…..Do you remember that day? When we stormed the palace… I saw you there."

Aang paused, resigning himself to his fate.

"I….wasn't going to win Katara. Ozai was too strong. He broke my defenses with every blow. He was super human. Sozins' comet had given him too much power, and without knowing advanced firebending, I could barely stay alive. I threw everything I had at him. In the ballroom yet he still came. I realized that only one of us would leave there alive, and I truly didn't believe it would be me... As I saw him take his stance for his final blow, all I could think about was you, how I would be leaving you behind, leaving you to their mercy. The end of the war, the fate of the world, nothing else mattered. It was instinct after that, I broke his stance and let loose all the power I had left. It was one final attack…. And I aimed straight for his heart, Katara. I killed him. No hesitation, no second thoughts, I took his life."

Aang brought a hand to his eyes to stem the flow of tears.

"Before I collapsed, I saw you. I saw you and I saw Zuko. I still remember those eyes. So much pain and despair, and it was because of me…. While I was unconscious, my spirit was tormented. My past lives advised and consoled me best as they could. In the end, I came to realize the magnitude of the tasks that would come and the decisions that would be made to maintain the peace that had cost us so dearly. The Avatar would have to do terrible things. He is a force for peace and he is the force that keeps that peace. All I could do was vow that there would be no alternative to the sadness and destruction that I must bring, That I would exhaust every option before I drove another soul to look at me with those eyes."

"When I awoke, I was at peace with my fate. My only worry was for you. Once I knew you were safe, I debated going to you, seeing you smile one last time but I knew it would make everything too difficult. I knew you wouldn't leave my side. I'd tried one too many times to keep you safe, and I knew how stubborn you can be. But this time, I couldn't allow you to follow me. You were so caring, so compassionate, so naïve. How could I steal that from you? How could I sully such a pure soul? So I left. I left and I never looked back. I told the council to screen my mail and to remove personal letters so I wouldn't be tempted."

"It was so hard at first. I kept thinking about you and Sokka and Toph. I missed speaking to people without adopting my formal tone. I missed hearing your laughter and seeing your smiles. But it had to be done, and I did it. That's why I ran. That's why I never looked back."

Aang whipped the last tears form his cheek and stared at his tea, not having the courage or will to look at Katara.

---

Katara sat and listened as Aang poured out his soul. She remembered that day, when she had last seen Aang. She saw the pain flowing through Zuko and turned to see Aang kill Ozai. She felt akin to Zuko watching the loss of a parent. Regardless of what he had done, Ozai was still a father, and Aang had just left a son orphaned. She stared with cold eyes, but when she saw him collapse, she snapped out of her daze. She left Zuko in Mai's care and rushed to Aang. He lay there limp in her arms, barely breathing and injured badly. Only then did she realize how terrible the fight had been. Only then did she realize how close to death Aang had been and how he waited until he had no alternative. She cried willing her companion to open his eyes but he never did. The healers took him to seclusion and worked on him for weeks, forbidding her from seeing him. She didn't know that she would ever get the chance to see him again. She didn't know he had seen her look at him so coldly, and she didn't know it would drive him away.

Tears flowed down her face as he finished his explanation. He cared for her so much, and he left her. Stupid Aang and his hero complex. He had to save everyone else, had to protect them all from pain and suffering. But who would protect him? Who would comfort him and tell him it would be alright?

-CHAPTER 10-

-OH COME ON ALREADY-

Katara leaned forward, her tears finally subsiding, "So why now? Why did you pick now to return?" There was tension in her voice, as if she were afraid to hear his answer.

Aang met her eyes but couldn't match her gaze. He turned wistful, "I don't know…. I really don't. At first, I thought I needed a break from all the politics, but somewhere…deep down I knew I would see you. I guess I was just tired of running. Maybe I just needed to see a friendly face again."

Katara cupped his face in her hands and raised his gaze to hers. She leaned close and in a whisper she said, "Aang, you know that whatever you've done, whatever you will do, I will always be your friend… … …maybe more" She hesitated for a moment before going on, a blush growing in her cheeks. Her lips were so close to his, and his eyes shown with so much emotion. Katara leaned in and softly brushed his lips with hers. It lasted a brief moment before she pulled back. Aang wore a look of shock that made Katara avert her gaze. Without thinking, Aang moved a hand to her cheek and turned her face towards his. His kiss was stronger, more masculine. All of the longing, all of the desire, all of the love came pouring forth as he pressed his lips into hers. She was so soft and sweet on his tongue, and made the most delightful noise as he moved to deepen their second kiss.

As Aang finally came to realize what he had done, he felt a growing fear. Aang pulled back suddenly leaving a dreamy eyed Katara confused and pleading for a return of contact. Aang moved back and quickly stood up.

"Katara, I'm sorry I shouldn't have."

"But I wanted you to. I still want you to."

"Katara, I'm not the boy you once knew. I have done terrible, terrible things. Things I don't expect you toforgive. I'm sorry." And with that he turned to the door.

He was already outside before Katara could completely grasp what just happened.

"Oh no he doesn't, not this time!"

Katara ran in quick pursuit and screamed him down.

"DON'T YOU DARE TAKE ANOTHER STEP!" Katara summoned a massive wall of ice before the fleeing avatar, taking him by surprise and almost knocking him square on his ass. He turned to see a fiery eyed water bender that looked none to happy with him.

"WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT SUPPOSED TO BE?!? AFTER 6 LONG YEARS, YOU COME OUT OF NOWHERE, SAVE MY LIFE, KISS ME AND RUN AWAY!

How dare you play with my emotions this way? What's it going to take for you to realize that I love you!"

Her tone softened as she backed a very frightened Aang to the wall she had just created.

"You hear me? I love you. I have thought about you every day for the past six years, wondering if you were safe, wondering if you had found someone. And now, when you've come halfway across the world and aroused me for a six year slumber, you turn to run? Why can't you let me in? Why do you have to be alone? I don't want to be just another person protected by the Avatar."

She had him up against the wall, one hand on his cheek and the other on his chest.

"Can't you understand how I've felt being alone for so long?"

Her arms went around his neck and she buried her face into his chest.

"Can't you understand that I'll never be happy without you?"

She broke into tears that Aang could feel though the fabric of his robe.

"Please don't leave me again…. Please."

Aang held her trembling form as she cried. He stroked her hair gently as he let her words sink in. Was he really causing her such pain? Could she really love him so deeply… as deeply as he loved her?

"I didn't know you felt that way… I hoped… but I never thought you could love me like I loved you."

Katara looked up and into his eyes.

"I love you Katara, I have loved you from the first day I met you, and will love you until my last breath. And if would have a miserable creature like me… I vow to never again leave your side."

Katara searched the depths of his eyes but found no trace of deception. He really loved her, and they were finally together. She smiled. Aang wrapped his arms around her delicate waist and lifted her lips to his.

The kiss was long and deep, each breaking only to breathe before quickly finding one another again. When their passion abated, the two held each other enjoying the silence and the feeling of the person they loved. The sun had since set when Katara started to shiver. The night air was cold and Aang had just begun to realize it, seeing her body tremble. Quickly he heated the air around him.

Aang smiled, as she turned to him. "Being a fire bender has its perks."

Katara snuggled closer into Aang's chest. "You don't have anywhere to stay tonight." She said matter-of-factly. Aang cocked his head but noticed her tracing circles on his pack.

"No, I guess I never did find an inn."

Silence.

"Stay with me."

Katara kept her head down. Aang felt himself blush a deep crimson. "Katara….."

She turned to see his face. "Aang, stay with me."

Aang froze, but saw the look on Katara's face. There was so much love. He nodded with a smile and a grunt of acceptance.

Katara nuzzled her cheek against his chest. He would stay with her. He would be with her forever. He would hold her like this. She smiled.

-CHAPTER 11-

-THE MORNING AFTER-

Aang awoke to an unexpected weight on his forehead. While the though of opening his eyes was an affront to all he stood for, his curiosity got the better of him. He opened his eyes to a see a very upside down lemur staring back at him.

"Momo, what have you been up to buddy?"

The excitable primate held out two small claws clinging onto a litchi nut. His hands said, "Would you like one?" but his eyes screamed "For the love of god please don't take it from me!"

"No thanks, not hungry. You go ahead." Momo chirped with delight as he stuffed his face and scampered off, in search of more food no doubt.

It was about that time that Aang also began to notice another unexpected weight, this time on his chest. Half expecting to find more litchi nuts, Aang shifted his gaze down. He froze, in shock. There was a very asleep, very naked, Katara snuggling happily into his side. Memories from the previous night rushed back to him: a confession of love, a lifelong pledge, a first kiss… a whole night of firsts. Aang smiled at the delicate form sleeping peacefully beside him. She was the most beautiful thing he had ever laid eyes upon.

Did he really deserve all of this happiness? Could the Avatar really indulge in a life of domestic tranquility? Ha, since when has he ever been tranquil? But still, what kind of life could he give her?

Aang lay there gently stroking Katara's hair while searching for ways to erode away his own happiness. Thankfully, even with 6 years of practice being an angsty avatar, he could not help but smile.

---

His gentle caresses elicited several sighs of contentment before Katara actually woke up. Her eyes fluttered open, trying their best to figure out how to focus again. She smiled as she realized that she hadn't been dreaming. Aang really had come back, and really did love her. She shifted her gaze to his and was overcome with a new wave of emotion. He was smiling at her with a look of utter fulfillment. She shifted herself to give him a kiss.

"Morning."

"You're cute when you wake up in the morning, you know that?"

Katara blushed, being ever so coy. She buried her head in his chest, speaking to it rather than him.

"I'm so glad it wasn't another dream."

He held her quietly, enjoying the smell of her hair and gently stroking her back, assuring her of his continued presence. Casually, Aang reached for his robes and searched though its folds for the small necklace. He ran his fingers over it thoughtfully. He had carved it years ago on a whim. It was one of those days where he would permit himself to indulge in a fantasy, in a life with Katara and a home and children.

---

Alone and far from civilization he stood in a clearing. With a mighty thrust he opened a fissure deep into the earth. Slowly he scanned, searching for the right minerals. A bit here, a chunk there, he searched for hours before he found enough. Drawing the material to the fissure he filled it with magma, melting and recrystalizing his quarry. He surfaced his prize: a brilliant black opal and an ingot of the purest gold.

Working his fingers, he slowly bent a small volume of water from his pouch and he slowly set to work carving an intricate design. Around the edge was a border, the symbol of each nation side by side encircling the stone. In the center the symbols for air and water brilliantly intertwined, as if they had never been separate. The surface was perfectly smooth, as if nature had intended it to look that way. Next was the backing. His bending had become far more powerful, and metal bending was not the difficult task as it was for others. He flattened the gold to fit the outline of the opal and brought 4 fine claws to hold it in place. Lastly he hardened the mount. The usually soft and pliable gold was heated and cooled in such a precise fashion that it would never be deformed again, holding its opal for all eternity.

Finishing his task he grew forlorn, knowing he would never have the chance to give this creation to its proper owner. He hid the pendant away, deep in the folds of his robes, where maybe he might forget about it. But he never did.

---

Working the necklace between his fingers, he slowly built up the courage to speak. He would not let fate separate them again, not before he did this.

"Katara." His voice was somber. "You remember what I told you last night… about never leaving you again?"

Katara looked at him with fear in her eyes.

"When my mission at the pole is done, would you consider maybe, perhaps…. Coming with me… you know… as my ……wife?"

She didn't know what to say. Was he really proposing to her?

Aang felt her silence envelop him. He moved to sit up, bringing her with him. Slowly, he presented her with his betrothal necklace.

"I have never loved anyone the way I love you, and I never want to. I have felt more alive in the past day then I have in the last 6 years and it's because of you. Without you, my soul is hollow. Please, Katara would you be my wife?"

Aang placed the necklace in Katara's hand, and resolved himself to wait for her answer.

The tears began to flow as she saw the beautiful betrothal necklace. She looked up into his eyes and lunged forward. The kiss was soft and full of emotion and when Katara finally left him, all Aang could say was "So, that's a yes then?"

"Yes. Yes, yes, yes, a thousand times yes. I will be your wife."

Aang was filled with relief, which was soon replaced with overwhelming joy. Katara left his embrace and turned her back to him. She handed him the necklace and proceeded to hold her hair up, exposing her bare neck. Aang took the hint and clasped the necklace onto his fiancé. She let her hair drop, turning to show off her newfound source of happiness.

Her smile was radiant, and the necklace suited her perfectly. It was only afterwards that he realized that the woman in front him was wearing nothing other than said necklace. His face grew flushed as his gaze drifted down the curves of her form.

Katara, seeing the change in his expression, realized her state of undress and quickly crossed her arms in from of her chest.

"And just what exactly were you looking at Avatar Aang," she said with mock anger.

Aang smiled, and grabbed hold, pulling her close. He leaned into her ear and whispered, "My beautiful, wife to be."

Katara smiled and wrapped her arms around him. The two held each other like there was no tomorrow. Little did they know that at that moment, forces were at work ensuring just that.

-CHAPTER 12-

-SECRETED AWAY-

"My lady, we have word that the Avatar has come to the Southern water city."

The old man bowed deeply before approaching the menacing figure sitting at the altar.

The woman smiled, "So he's finally caught up with me. Very well then. This time, I'll be sure to have a surprise of my own prepared. Captain, assemble a team and scour the city. Find the Avatar, track his movements."

"Yes my lady, right away, and what of your brother? His ship arrives today. Shall we have him followed as well?"

"Don't worry about Zuzu. He'll go straight to the embassy like a good little Fire Nation soldier. Just make sure you find the Avatar."

"Yes, my lady." The old man shuffled back to the shadows.

---flashback---

When had it become like this, hiding in the shadows, disowned by traitors to her homeland. Once she had been Azula, daughter of Ursa and Ozai, heir to the throne of the Fire Nation. Now she hid, leading a handful of loyalists, working to sabotage the peace, to destabilize her uncle's pacifist government. The raids on Earth Kingdom villages, the hijacked Water Nation trade vessels, every step was meticulously planned to engender mistrust. It had taken 6 years, but finally the nations were fed up. The people were starting to lose faith in the council's leadership. One decisive show of strength on her part would convince the people that their governments could not protect them.

Her plan was devious. She would kidnap the leadership and their families. As the armies were left without direction, she would have free reign over their respective territories. She could strike with impunity, terrorizing the people. New leadership would be demanded. Distrust and prejudice towards the Fire Nation would return, and with a few choice words, she could rally her people behind their rightful ruler. Her armies would once again march around the world, and all would bow in submission. All she needed to do now was bide her time and, of course, eliminate the Avatar.

---/flashback---

Azula shuddered as she wrapped the heavy water tribe coat around her shoulders. Dressing as a commoner was distasteful but necessary to keep a low profile. She walked quickly, avoiding eye contact with others as they passed.

"So the Avatar has caught up with me. No matter, even the incompetents under my command should be able to find him in this place. In the meantime, I must ensure my little trap will be ready for him."

Azula worked her way through the maze of ice she had built when she first came to the Southern water city. Deep in her secret chamber stood the remnants of the ship she had used to flee, so many years ago. The wreckage had been meticulously reforged into a giant cylindrical capacitor, one that would store enough charge to obliterate half the city if released. She had underestimated the Avatar and his allies in their last encounter, but this time she would be their downfall. Bolt after bolt surged and was stored away, waiting to be unleashed on an unsuspecting world.

-CHAPTER 13-

-BACK TO SCHOOL-

Aang's discomfort was visible as he stepped into the bedroom clad in his new Water Nation underclothes.

"Katara, these are itchy."

"Oh don't be a baby. They're wool and they'll keep you warm."

"Katara, I'm a fire bender. I keep myself warm."

"Well you can't just going about the city making a fire whenever you please, Mr. I'm supposed to be undercover. Besides if you insist on wearing those white robes, how else can you stay warm?"

"Oh have I few ideas…." He smirked as he took in Katara's semi-clothed state.

"When did you become so frisky?" Katara giggled as she turned away and moved to do up her wrappings.

Aang smiled as he dragged his eyes from Katara and put on his robe, shifting slightly with discomfort from his itchy new garments.

"I really do hate this wool."

Katara kissed her whining avatar and quickly placated him. "Come on you've distracted me enough this morning, I'll be late for my class, and I'll be damned if I let you out of my sight again, not after you promised to help with my pupils."

"Speaking of, I meant to ask you earlier. I met a nice family before I saw you, and the daughter is a bender. I promised I would ask if you would take her on a pupil. I think she'd be a good student."

"Hmmm… yeah of course. Who am I to question the judgment of the Avatar?"

"Oh you won't let this Avatar stuff go will you? You never used to be like this."

"Yeah? Well you weren't that much fun to tease back then." She kissed his cheek, and enjoyed the fact that she could now.

" grumble "

"I love you too. Now come one, let's fetch this new student and go to class before I'm late."

He smiled and walked to her mirror. "Let me just make sure I look intimidating enough." He glared at the mirror in his practiced scowl and mussed his hair so it fell over his eyes.

"Oh just come on…." She dragged him out the door.

---

Mei was at home when Aang and Katara came knocking. Needless to say she was speechless as Aang told her of her good fortune. As the trio walked to the training yard, Mei couldn't help but notice that Aang was holding Katara's hand, and that she was smiling wider then she had ever seen her. They did not break contact until the three had reached the front of the formation of water benders.

Katara was first to speak. "Class, I have some introductions today. First, Mei," she stood forward. 'Mei will be a new addition to our class,so please make her feel welcome." Mei bowed and moved to a place in the ranks.

"Secondly, this is Aang. He is a ….. master from the north, who will be demonstrating some very high level techniques."

"What kind of techniques?" A voice popped out of the crowd but did not identify itself.

Aang looked embarrassed, "Which ones would you like to see demonstrated?"

"Show us the most useful one in battle!"

"Yeah!" The group cheered.

Aang looked at Katara for permission, and once obtaining it, proceeded to ask for a volunteer. It was the presumptuous youth behind the voice, Aang could feel it.

"Please attack me with all of your strength."

The child smiled and unleashed a fury of snow and ice balls. With a flick of the wrist, each projectile stopped in mid air and fell to the ground.

"Again."

This time, three water whips appeared and aimed for Aang's head and arms. A sidestep and a wave of his arm froze the whips and made them clunk to the ground.

"Again."

The youth performed a rather intimidating octopus form and attempted to break Aang's stance. But again, a swift motion dispelled the attacks and left his attacks impotent. After several more bouts of this, the child was quite tired and Aang decided it was time.

"This form only works if the opponent does not have the will to fight it. Tiring them is a critical first step."

Aang took his stance and focused on his weakened opponent. Slowly his wrist and fingers began to dance and surprisingly the child's body began doing the same. His motions were in time with Aang's wrist. Aang was actually bending the water in his opponent's body to his will. The class stood silent as they watched their friend being manipulated like a marionette. Even Katara was astounded at this display of skill. She knew he had improved but to have this kind of power without a full moon was… terrifying.

Aang released his 'volunteer' who stared at him in awe. The class began clapping with an unparalleled fervor. Katara pulled him aside.

"When did you learn that?"

"Oh, I've picked up a few tricks over the years." Aang smiled as Katara just stared. "I don't use it unless it's absolutely necessary."

The rest of the class was far less eventful, with Aang helping Katara demonstrate forms and basic techniques. When the last student left, Mei approached Aang and Katara.

"I would be honored if both of you would have dinner with my family tonight. It's the least I can do after you have both been so kind."

Aang turned to Katara who smiled back at him.

"Mei, we would be delighted to."

Mei smiled brightly. Aang retrieved his staff and Katara's satchel and the three set off. They had taken no more than five paces before they heard a gruff howl aimed in their general direction. They turned to find a very angry looking man pointing with his mouth agape.

Katara sighed, "Oh god not now."

The man screamed again, "What is that around your neck!"

-CHAPTER 14-

-FIANCE-

"Damnit Katara answer me! What are you wearing around your neck?"

Aang shifted to whisper in her ear, "Who is this guy? He looks familiar."

"Ahhh, it's the Blizzard," Mei squeeled.

"He's the one from the tournament yesterday…my… fiancé." Katara was embarrassed, why did he have to show up now…or ever for that matter?

"Yuji, go away. You're not wanted here." Katara screamed.

"Answer my question. That damn well better not be what it looks like."

"It is. It's a betrothal necklace. It's Aang's betrothals necklace, and I'm wearing it because I'm his betrothed, so GO AWAY."

Yuji paused. "WHAT!?! You know that our parents have already agreed to our marriage. They will never accept this…stranger. Have you lost your mind Katara? Besides, what good is a weakling like that?" shifting his focus, "Are you even a bender?"

Aang knew Yuji saw what he had done yesterday and was about to call him on it when he was cut off by an angry Katara. "He's a greater bender than you will ever be, in fact he's the…"Katara was muffled by Aang's hand.

"Undercover, remember?"

Katara sighed, removing Aang's hand. "Please, just let this go. You know I never wanted to marry you."

"Would you abandon our culture so quickly? Our families made this decision, and I am sure Chief Hakoda would disapprove of this behavior. Or do you not care about your father's wishes anymore? He will never accept this man as a son. As a princess, you have an obligation to your people. Would you abandon that so quickly?"

Katara stared with cold eyes, and Aang was compelled to act. Ever the diplomat, Aang stood forward and attempted to diffuse the situation, attempted being the operative word.

"There's no need for so much anger. I am certain that this can all be resolved peacefully. Perhaps a proper introduction would….."

"Shut up outsider! No one wants to hear you talk. This is between me and my betrothed."

"Well, I believe it is quite clear that she does not intend to marry you, so she isn't really your betrothed now, is she?" Anger was leaking into his tone.

"Yeah well, I believe you can go to hell."

"Nothing's going to be resolved with that kind of attitude." Aang glared with fury.

An ice dagger came flying at Aang's face, only to be vaporized before it hit.

"Was that entirely necessary?"

"Yes, if it will get you to SHUT UP!" More ice daggers came flying, but all were dissolved.

"How dare you try to steal Katara away from me!"

Aang's tone became dark. "She was never yours to begin with. Stop treating her like a possession!"

"I'll treat her however I want to, she's my betrothed." Yuji let loose a barrage of daggers and ice balls, more than Aang could simply vaporize. He dispelled what he could and deflected the rest to what he thought was a safe location. He didn't know that Mei had snuck up from behind to see the battle up close. She was hiding behind a snow bank when the dagger turned to race towards her.

There was an ear piercing scream when the dagger grazed Mei's forehead. The wound wasn't deep but the spilt blood fell across her face making the injury seem far worse. All three benders turned to see Mei hunched over, blood running down her hands and onto the white snow around her. Katara rushed over, drawing water from the ice as she ran. Yuji was clearly concerned as he moved towards Mei, but before he took three steps he was stopped in his tracks.

Aang saw the red pour from her wound and stain the ground, He froze as the memories came flooding back.

A young girl. A cold night. The flames of her burning village behind her. She was crouched in the corner clinging onto a woman. It was her mother. She was dead. The girl was crying when she turned to him. The sweat and tears and dirt and blood on her face were all he could see. So much blood. Those eyes looked at him with so much pain. "Who will help us?" The words echoed in his mind.

Aang's eyes glowed a fierce blue, his tattoos lighting up along with it. In an instant, he had surrounded himself with a giant ice golem at least three times his own size. With a swift motion the golem set off after Yuji. Its voice echoed with the power of avatars long dead.

"You will feel my wrath!" was all he said as his arm lunged forward, ready to crush Yuji with one blow. But at the last moment, he stopped. The glow disappeared as Aang realized he had lost control. The power dispelled, and the golem returned to its icy home. Aang dropped to his knees, not believing he had lost control like that. It had been so long. He thought he had finally beaten it.

Yuji stared with horror as he finally realized who this stranger actually was.

Katara saw the entire encounter but was busy healing Mei's wound. It was just a gash, and with Katara's skill there would not even be a scar. When she finished and made sure that Mei was fine, she rushed to Aang's crumpled form. She helped him to his feet and asked if he was alright, but he remained silent. Instead, he walked towards the still paralyzed Yuji.

Yuji was growing more terrified as the Avatar approached him.

Slowly, and showing more remorse than thought humanly possible, Aang bowed and begged forgiveness for his actions.

"I beg you, forgive my behavior. It was inexcusable."

Yuji was dumbstruck. Here was the Avatar bowing to him, asking for his forgiveness. After a moment, when he finally regained use of his body, Yuji moved to bow, showing his deference by bowing lower than the Avatar.

"The insolence was mine, lord Avatar. There is no need for you to apologize. You honor me with your kindness." Despite how out of place the words seemed coming from Yuji, they were sincere.

The two stood upright, an awkward silence filling the air. Aang was lost in his thoughts, wondering why he had lost it. Katara was filled with concern, and Yuji was still letting the situation sink in.

Sensing the tense moment, Mei moved and took Yuji's arm. "Come, we have had enough battle for one day. Let's all forget this and come to dinner.

The three stared at Mei, and realized what she had done, and how tactfully she had done it. They nodded in agreement and the band of four set off to Reika's home.

---

Aang and Katara followed several paces behind Mei and Yuji. Aang still had not said a word since his outburst. When their companions were out of earshot, Katara took Aang's hand and squeezed it gently. "You aren't alone anymore, it will help if you talk about it."

Aang took several steps before he spoke.

"The war didn't end when I defeated Ozai…. We told everyone that the Fire Nation had been defeated when Iroh took power, but it was a lie. The Fire Nation was ambitious to the end. Even though we had a foothold, and we were at the palace gates, they had sent several battalions to the Earth Kingdom. Their plan was to strike everywhere simultaneously when the comet drew near. When Ozai fell, those battalions were abandoned. Some returned to the Fire Nation, while others went rogue. The military leadership was overturned, and those that remained in the Earth Kingdom were loyal to no one."

"The Earth Kingdom armies were severely weakened after that final battle. There were only a handful of healthy men left to protect the entire continent. By the time I regained consciousness, the Council of Nations had already been formed. The agenda for our first meeting was how I was to be dispatched to quell the rebellions. I was given 100 able bodied soldiers from across the Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation. The rest would be needed to 'maintain domestic tranquility' on the Fire islands. We set out against a rebel force nearly five thousand strong."

"In the beginning, it was simple. We just followed the path of destruction until we stumbled upon our prey. From then on in, it was simply a matter of the Avatar displaying a great show of strength to intimidate the enemy into submission. The plan worked at first. We had reduced the enemy force by half before they got organized. Unfortunately, the remaining would not go so quietly. The first time they ambushed us we were lucky to get away alive. They had taken an entire village hostage just to lure us in. When we arrived, they burned everything. The village, the hostages, the surrounding forest, everything was set ablaze. My benders tried to quell the blaze but it was too much for them to handle. I had made a path so most of the villagers could escape, but in the end I was outnumbered and I didn't have the strength to enter the Avatar state."

"I escaped pursuit into a burning home. In the corner, a girl was clutching onto her mother's charred corpse. She was crying and her face was stained with blood. In the firelight she looked almost demonic until I heard her cries for help. "Who will save us?" was all she said before she doubled over sobbing. It was that surge of emotion that forced me into my Avatar state, and I felt the power flow within me. I stopped the fires with sheer force of will, and when I found the benders responsible I couldn't stop. I kept attacking until every last one lay dead. Only then did I stop. When the power left me, my body was too weak to move. My men, or what was left of them, took me back to camp. When I awoke, I found more than half of my men were dead. Most of the villagers survived, but not all of them, not that little girl."

"I didn't speak a word for nearly a week after that day. The council sent spiritual guides to help me but I was unresponsive. They said I had been severely traumatized, but time would heal me. It was two months before my troop set out after the remaining benders. The enemy still had numbers nearing a thousand but they were scattered and splintered. None of the following battles were as horrible as that first one, but occasionally, when I was reminded of that day, I would loose control. The Avatar state would be summoned and I would unleash a vengeful wave of destruction, at least until I could gain control again."

"With time the episodes grew less frequent. By the time we had finished removing the last of the rebel forces, nearly two years had passed. Since then, today was the first time I have lost control. Mei's bloody face was so much like that little girl. There was so much blood…"

Aang settled back into his silence, looking more morose than before. Katara stopped, holding his arm and jarring him from his mindless march forward. Aang looked up and saw the emotion on Katara's face. She knew that nothing she could say would do any good, so she took him into her arms and held him tightly. Aang settled into her warm embrace and after a moment, let his tears flow and buried his face in her hair. The couple stood there until Aang's tears abated. He pulled away slowly and smiled at Katara.

"Thank you," he whispered.

She kissed him softly, before the two set off again. Mei and Yuji spied on the couple from around the corner. They had heard the Avatar's plight and were in shock. It wasn't until Katara kissed Aang that they turned and ran, desperately trying to cover the distance they should have.

-CHAPTER 15-

-ZUKO-

EARLIER THAT SAME DAY

"Ambassador!" A voice came screaming down the hall.

"What is it Chang? Can't you see I'm speaking with my daughter!" Ayame smiled and waved as her father stared on with a displeased scowl.

"Sir, I'm sorry, but we've just received a messenger hawk with the imperial seal."

Ayame frowned as her father took the message and read it hastily.

"Oh sweet Agni." The ambassador looked faint.

"Father, what is it? What's wrong?"

"The prince and his wife are here. They'll be visiting us tonight., Quick Chang, call the entire staff, we must make preparations."

Ayame scowled and muttered under her breath, "She was right."

---

The night before

The silk sheets were wrapped in knots around his legs. His forehead was wet with a cold sweat. The soft fire light flickered across his contorted features as he muttered small incoherent phrases. "Damn you…..stop...innocent…why…nothing….kill me instead…. NO….."

His eyes blinked open, his mouth open as if ready to scream, but all that came out was a soft whisper. "Mai."

She had been awakened by her husband's tossing, and she watched with pain and worry in her eyes as he battled his inner demons. When he opened his eyes, she knew he had pulled free. She placed a soft hand on his cheek and turned him to face her. "Zuko, I'm here. You had a nightmare, but you're safe now." Her eyes were so soft and full of concern.

Mai had grown into a strong and kind woman. Her once angular and piercing eyes had softened with six blissful years with her husband. In fact, most of her features had rounded out quite nicely. She moved to hold her husband in her arms. She placed his head in her lap and held him tightly.

Zuko felt a sense of comfort as he was enveloped by the sweet scent that was his wife. She was so soft that it was hard to remember that she was a skilled assassin. That was until he felt the stiletto beneath the folds of her robe. He could not help but smile as he moved up to kiss her passionately on the lips.

"I love you, Mai" was all he mumbled before kissing her deeply once again.

So much affection at such an early hour, she knew he had that dream again. Ever since that day five years ago, they would haunt him during especially stressful times.

"I know. I love you too." She rested him on her lap again and stroked his hair.

He stared at the shadows flickering across the ceiling as his mind wandered over his nightmare, though in reality it was more of a memory.

---FLASHBACK---

He had officially been defected a little over a week ago, and now he was on the run with the Avatar. His own people were hunting him, his allies did not trust him, but worst of all, he did not know if Mai was safe.

The last time he saw her was when they said goodbye on that mountain. Overtly, they had left for a lovers picnic far in the mountains. Mai was to return in a few hours, alone, claiming to have lost Zuko in one of his fits of misplaced rage. They would search for days while he secretly fled the capital in search of the Avatar. His plan worked perfectly and no one suspected…. or so he thought. On the fifth day, he saw the posters posting the reward for his capture. On the seventh day, he saw the posters for his uncle, 'when had he escaped?'

On the tenth day he was reunited with his uncle. Zuko's change of heart renewed Iroh's faith in him, and the two shared a heartfelt embrace. But there was a hidden sadness in this reunion. Iroh brought news of Mai's plight. Initially, they had believed her story, but after finding no trace of Zuko, they confined her. She was questioned. When she said nothing, she was beaten. When she remained silent, she was tortured. She lasted 3 days before she broke. In a cruel twist of fate, she was imprisoned in the dungeons on the very morning of Iroh's escape, but he had not known.

Zuko was distraught. He slammed his fists against his uncle and watched him fall to the floor.

"DAMN YOU! Why didn't you save her? Why didn't you stop this? She was innocent!" Zuko collapsed to his knees. "Why did I let her help me?" His precious Mai had been tortured. His minds' eye showed him images of bloody wounds marring her porcelain skin. Delicate arms bound, hidden weapons stripped away. "I should have let them kill me instead. What have I done?" The tears would not stop flowing as Iroh held his nephew tightly.

---/FLASHBACK---

That day had been replayed countless times in his mind. In the days before the final battle, he would wake nightly, distraught from terrible images of Mai bound and beaten. Even after he had freed her and learned the truth, they would still come to him. Mai had never been physically harmed. They drugged her to obtain the truth and imprisoned her, but she was not harmed physically. Unfortunately, those sleepless nights spent dreaming of Mai's torture had left Zuko permanently scarred. He was left in perpetual fear for her safety. The first few months after the war, he had smothered her, almost to the point of driving her away, until she figured out why. Since then, she would tend his wounds by staying with him after each nightmare, stroking his hair until he fell back to sleep. Such was the nature of their relationship, and while it was annoying being 'protected' by Zuko, she focused on the fact that he held such love in his heart, and it was all for her.

-CHAPTER 16-

-DINNER-

Yuji and Mei kept a respectable distance in front of Aang and Katara. Yuji was lost in his own thoughts, desperately trying to absorb all that had just happened.

His now ex-fiancé had become the betrothed of the Avatar, who had just almost killed him in a fit of rage induced by a flashback to a time where he had murdered a battalion of rogue fire benders bent on destroying the world.

He was scared, terrified in fact. Terrified of the shear power this man possessed. Terrified of the things he had seen and the things he had been forced to do. Would Katara be safe in his world? Probably not, but on the other hand, when was the last time anyone had seen her with a smile that bright? She was truly happy, and that hurt him. He had always known they would never be married. In truth, the only reason he was so passionate about the betrothal was that it irked him that he could never best Katara in a battle. Still, it hurt knowing that he could never have made Katara happy.

Mei linked her arm through Yuji's and brought him out of his thoughts.

"They really are happy together, you know? You should leave them alone."

"Yeah, I know. It just gets to me that I could never get her to smile like that."

"Well…. You did almost crush her yesterday with that stunt of yours."

"That was an accident, I just wanted to catch her off guard…. It's not like I have a chance at beating her otherwise…" His tone grew wistful.

Realization swept across Mei's face. "You never wanted to marry her. You just wanted to beat her in that tournament…."

…

Yuji turned away, trying vainly to hide his embarrassment.

"You are the stupidest boy I have ever met." She giggled and ran off ahead of him, leaving him embarrassed and confused.

---

Katara's arm was linked with Aang's and she was leaning slightly towards him as they walked. Aang was slowly regaining his composure from his little episode, feeling a bit foolish, and very relieved that he had finally talked to someone about it.

Wanting to lighten the mood, Aang decided to make an attempt at idle conversation. "Have you heard from Sokka or Toph at all?"

"Sokka sends Hawky down here once a month so we keep in touch. He never visits though. I guess life as ascientist is a busy one. He's just received a dual post at Ba Sing Se University in international politics and general science. Life as a scholar seems to be agreeing with him, but Suki has been keeping the warrior in him sharp as a tack apparently." Katara giggled.

"I always knew those two would end up together."

"Mmm, yeah. After what happened at Ba Sing Se, I didn't think Sokka would ever love anyone ever again. He was so happy when he found her I don't think he let her out of his sight for a solid week. I still remember catching him 'standing guard' when Suki and I went to take a bath…Boy did he pay for that one."

"Haha, He always was a ladies man… I was so envious."

Katara straightened and turned to look at Aang.

"What?"

"You were envious… of Sokka… for being a ladies man…?"

"Well, I didn't do that stuff well. Look how long it has taken me to tell you how I felt."

"I suppose….. but still…… he's my brother…"

"I wonder how he'll react when we tell him…… you know…. about us."

"I don't know….I hadn't thought about it….but we'll find out soon. He is supposed to come for a visit this week…………. I hope he doesn't get all big brother on me."

Aang laughed. "Well, if he makes a big fuss, I'll just go get Yue to scold him into his proper place."

"You still talk with Yue?"

"Visit her every time I'm in the… neighborhood, so to speak" Aang paused for a bit before beginning again. "What about Toph?"

"She's got her own earthbending academy in Ba Sing Se. I heard she was doing well, but it has been over a year since she last wrote. She was sounding a little lonesome. Maybe we could pay her a visit. I'm sure she'll want to be at the wedding." Katara smiled and playfully batted his arm.

"You think she'll still call me twinkle-toes?"

The couple laughed as they followed their companions.

---

It was late afternoon when the group returned to Reika's home. Rin was playing outside and ran to greet them, by giggling and jumping into Mei's arms. She screamed with glee when she saw that Aang had returned as well.

"MR. FIREBENDER!!!! You came back!"

Aang laughed at his new title as he lifted Rin high into the air. "Hello Rin, yes I came back, and I brought some friends." He gestured to Katara and Yuji. "Now run inside and fetch your mother. I'm sure she won't be expecting three extra dinner guests.

"Actually I made extra, just in case Mei decided to bring back some new friends from class." Reika smiled as she walked in with a tray of tea. "And it looks like I was right too. Mother's intuition and all."

Aang, Katara and Yuji bowed before each taking a cup of tea and settling by the fire.

---

After dinner, the group separated, Katara helped Reika clear the plates, Aang was dragged into Rin's room and coerced into making little fire and ice marionettes, and Yuji and Mei had opted for an evening stroll, much to Katara's amusement, and Reika's dismay.

---

"Isn't he supposed to be your fiancé?" Reika asked, confusion spread across her face.

Katara laughed, "It was an arranged marriage, which I dissolved. Anyway, he didn't want to marry me. He just wanted to prove he was a better waterbender, and played along with the marriage as an excuse to challenge me. He's not so bad once you get past his ego…"

"So you dissolved your engagement….? Any reason why?"

Katara blushed, suddenly occupied with the plate she was cleaning. "Well, let's just say my heart belonged to someone else." Her hand drifted to her new betrothal necklace and she smiled.

"And would this someone else be… all powerful master of the elements….?" Reika has a wicked smirk on her face.

Katara blushed a deeper red. "We were that obvious?"

"I saw him looking at you. It has been a long time since I've seen someone with that much love in his eyes. You are a lucky girl."

"I know." Katara looked at Reika and smiled. She missed having a mother figure to talk with. This was nice.

---

Aang's fingers were starting to cramp from al the fine motions he had been making for the past hour. Rin's interest in his little puppets had finally waned and Aang could see her tiny eyes fighting back the sleepiness.

"I think it's time for someone to go to bed." Aang smiled and gently scooped Rin into his arms.

Rin looked up futilely trying to shake the sleepiness from her eyes. "Can't I just stay up until daddy comes home?"

The words caught Aang by surprise. This was the second time Rin spoke of her father as if he was still alive. He debated asking her about it, but decided that it would be best if he left it for another time. In any case he should probably talk to Reika about it first.

"Rin you can barely keep you eyes open. Time for bed." Aang had been anticipating an argument but found that she was already asleep in his arms. "Well, that was easy." He laid her down and tucked her in before quietly sneaking out of her room.

---

Aang walked into find that Yuji and Mei had already retuned. They were sitting by the fire drinking tea with Katara and Reika. The three women were smiling and laughing while Yuji looked woefully out of place. As the scene unfolded, Aang quickly realized that Yuji was the topic of conversation, and Katara was taking the opportunity to recall every embarrassing moment from the past six years pertaining to the young man.

Silently Aang mused, "He has been an incredible ass the past two days, and he's been harassing Katara for who knows how long. Still, no man should be subject to such torture. Besides, a show of male solidarity might make Yuji warm up to me."

Aang walked up to the fire and sat beside Katara and kissed her quickly as she turned to see him sit. Before she could continue her story, Aang spoke up. "I put Rin to bed, she was getting tired. She said something that was a little disturbing. She said that she wanted to wait for her father to come home?" Aang looked quizzically at Reika and waited for a response.

She sighed before answering. "Rin was conceived before my husband left for the final battle. She's never seen her father, and intellectually I think she understands that he is dead. But sometimes…. I think she just wants him to be alive so much that she begins to believe it herself. It has been happening less frequently, but when she's tired or scared she slips back into her fantasies."

The four sat silently for a while before Reika moved to change the subject. "So Katara, why don't you finish that story you were telling us?"

Yuji paled, and Aang saw this as an opportunity to step in. He leaned in and whispered something into Katara's ear, causing her face to blush slightly.

"Actually, I'm feeling a bit tired. I think we should head back.." Aang got to his feet and helped Katara to hers. He glanced over a visibly relieved Yuji, and winked before turning to Reika, and thanking her for her hospitality.

Yuji just blinked dumbly as the two set off.