That night, Katara had, for the first time, someone other than her mother braid her hair. No one had ever, EVER braided her hair besides her mother. Somehow, she felt like letting the fire nation stylist touch it was a betrayal. She ignored it, and let the woman do her work. From hair to makeup to dress to the ceremonial room, Katara held her tongue. She couldn't help but let her mind drift onto tonight. Not the wedding but tonight, tonight. She wasn't ready to take this step! And as the comforting Uncle Iroh accompanied her down the isle (The Fire Lord was not present so his brother arrived instead) she still felt herself panic. Many nobleman had come from far and wide to see the Prince be wed and they all stared at her with curious looks. She shook it off as she felt her foot lightly tap her husband-to-be's and smiled shyly. She was now ready to accept whatever she had coming to her…maybe.
As the servants scrambled around to clean up, Katara and Zuko were sent into a small ship to go on their honeymoon. The nervous couple sat a good distance from each other. Zuko was far to excited for words, but he was also as scared at Katara. Neither was even the age of eighteen yet. How are we expected to continue on the royal family … Katara shoved that to the back of her mind. It didn't have to be tonight, she decided. Another night, she thought nervously. He'll understand.
As the ship docked, the two followed their servants into the small but still fairly size palace that they should cal home for now. Katara and Zuko followed the servants up three flights of stairs on shaky legs until they reached their room. As soon as the servants left, Zuko stood up. He grabbed a single pillow and walked out onto the balcony. Katara was already half asleep. The reception had been very exhausting. As the New Fire Lord and Lady, they had to dance a special dance that took just about thirty minutes to complete and they had still danced other dances with the nobleman. They also had to give a blessing to all the families and accept all the gifts personally. Most of the gifts where items such as silverware or pots, less expensive but still elegant items for a wedding. So it had been a hectic night to say the least.
Katara watched sadly as Zuko walked outside, and soon , she was fast asleep. She awoke in the middle of the night to give Zuko a blanket, though he was always very warm, and had shuffled back to bed, but hadn't moved for the rest of the night.