Hey everybody! This is the next chapter in my story, I think it came out much better than I thought! I had to rewrite a few parts, but I know that this will work. Tha-tha-tha-that's all folks! :P

--Shopping Spree and a few Favors

The tea fell wonderfully in a hot slide down Katara's throat. She was a little hungry but decided to wait until lunch. The tea would be filling until then. Iroh had been more of an observer than a talker today. Which made Katara nervous again. Katara could feel the change in herself. It had nothing to do with her physical appearance either. (Even though she had matured) It had more to do with her self esteem and how she felt emotionally.

Everyday spent with Aang felt like walking down a known horrible path. She felt scared at his approach, worried if she were to do something to upset him. Katara knew she was just being paranoid and silly, but Aang was perfect compared to her. Everything about him was sunshine and butterflies, while Katara was dark mixed with light.

"Thank you, Iroh, but I'm afraid I am very tired." Smiling sleepily, Katara was about to get up when, once again, Iroh stopped her.

"My dear girl, you have just arrived, and the town awaits! If you are to stay in the palace, I must insist on buying you some new finery for your wardrobe." Smiling gently, Iroh picked himself up and then held his hand out to Katara.

"Aang, would you care to join us?" Iroh asked, even though he knew he wouldn't come. Aang shook his head slightly when looking into Katara's wearisome eyes. He had to consult with Zuko. Alone. Aang remembered all too well Katara's past feelings for him. He was letting nothing or no one get in the way. He waved them away while saying, "Have fun, Katara. Good day, Mr. Iroh!"

Katara brought up a hand to wave also, then joined Iroh on the way out of the palace. In a fatherly gesture, Iroh took Katara's arm in his, guiding the way towards the town with at least fif-teen soldiers behind them. "Why are there so many soldiers behind us? I think that the two of us can protect ourselves!" Katara whispered, bewildered. Iroh looked into her moon round eyes and chuckled. "Why, to hold the packages of course!" Groans were emitted from Katara while Iroh burst out in a delighted laugh that mixed in with the crowd of merchants and buyers.

Aang paced before the great red doors to the throne room. Wringing his hands lightly and biting his lower lip in frustration. This wasn't like Zuko, to leave him waiting. He was the Avatar! But most of all, he was a friend. After a few tense, unbearable, sweaty minuets, the giant double doors opened to an intimidating throne room. Red flames situated themselves across the front of the Fire Lord's chair and behind it also. Letting out a breath, Aang walked towards the chair. Determined strides and Aang's focus was centered completely on that one piece of furniture.

Stopping abruptly, he almost ran into Zuko. A whole year could really change a guy. Zuko's hair was longer now, reaching his shoulders with half of itup in a top knot. He was taller than he was at seventeen, his body more lean and muscular. His clothes were of very fine materials. But a few things would always remain the same. For example, his flame shaped scar over one eye, or the smirk that played across his face so easily.

"My good friend Aang." was all his smokey voice said before wrapping the Avatar into a brotherly hug. "What brings you to my palace?"

Aang smiled brightly. "Well, Katara and I are here to ask a favor...Or two." Suddenly, Zuko's ears perked up at the mention of the beautiful water bender. His memories of days long gone were mainly of her. But in his mind, she was still the petite girl of 15.

"Oh, where is she then, I didn't see her come in with you." Eagerness filled his voice, but he couldn't help it. Zuko was always so nervous around her, and when he heard of her arrival, his stomach did somersaults.

Aang paused before answering, "Katara went to town with your Uncle Iroh to shop. If I remember correctly, they brought fifteen soldiers, so I'm sure they will be safe." Zuko groaned on the inside, then mentally slapped himself. Oh well. He could see Katara later. Alone.

"What is this favor?"

Aang looked the mighty Fire Lord in the eyes saying, "Katara and I wish to be wed. At the palace."

Feeling completely thunderstruck, Zuko vaguely remembered nodding his head before walking out of the throne room. He felt alone. Which was odd considering the majority of soldiers and servants. Even Mai was around here somewhere. Zuko wanted comfort, even though, he too was supposedly getting married. He had found himself longing for something else...someone else. Someone like Katara.

Ok, so that's a pretty sweet ending. (I think) Hopefully by tomorrow I will have the 4 chappie up, thnx and plz review!