Katara's point of view
Behind These Painted Masks
Chapter 3:
Lady Katara and Chief Sokka
"Toph!" When I returned I found her enveloped in a hug, her mother had her in a 'death embrace.' And I could see Toph's eyeballs almost popping out from the force of the hug, I took this opportunity to take a quick look at my brother. He was frozen, tough I could see his brain working furiously I knew he had no plan of action whatsoever, I however did.
"Lady Beifong let me introduce myself and my brother." I said, giving my voice the regal tone I saved only for special occasions.
She looked up and her wet face turned from one of pure to joy to that of disgust, "Ah yes, the Water Tribe peasants." she gave me a look that seemed to deem me unworthy of her presence never-mind her time.
This stung a bit, "Actually I am Lady Katara of the Southern Water Tribe and this is my brother Chief Sokka." I hated playing this card but the Lady had asked for it, her smug look slid from her face. Toph was released and joined us again, unconsciously grabbing Sokka's arm.
Poppy could only stammer, "Royalty? Why Prince Zuko and his Uncle are here as well. It is a great honor." She bowed so low the tip of her hair grazed the manicured lawn.
We swept by with as much aloofness as we could muster while trying to stifle our laughter.
The Beifong mansion was a grand as ever, the shingles carved with the flying-boar symbol, while everything was in perfect condition, not a single thing was out of place. Even the dirt seemed to be in place, only found were plants were growing. The sun was shining above and filtered through the window where specks of dust could be seen floating lazily.
It was later just before dinner and I was wandering the gardens minding my own business, just enjoying the sun's final rays. I was in the center of the garden when I found the last person I was expecting, in a tree.
"Zuko, hey." He looked down at me he still had the 'I'm better than you' look but he tried to hide it most of the time, he was casually placed in the tree, sitting just high enough to see over the walls of the mansion.
"Katara." I grabbed the lower branch and swung myself up into the tree. Of course the one time I try to show off the branch breaks sending me flying, I fling out my hand but my leg reached the ground first, the 'crack' was subtle but the pain shooting through my ankle was anything but.
I blushed furiously while Zuko let loose a howl of laughter, "It's not FUNNY!" I began cursing under my breath, letting my whole vocabulary come out. Sokka's not the only one who's good with words.
I attempted to Bend water out of the nearby pond but having no stance with wiggled feebly and then splashed back into the water, the curses came out faster as a result.
Still chuckling Zuko jumped out of the tree and picked me up in his arms, he began walking towards the house.
"What are you doing?" I demanded, trying to see past his smile. His laughter had died down but he still looked amused, as if my pain was the best thing he had seen all day.
"Taking you inside, or would you rather I leave you out here to crawl back?" he asked, eyes flashing slightly.
I didn't say anything back, I just crossed my arms and attempted to hide my blush.