Chapter Five

Ryoko wasn't certain how long she had been out but even while half conscious, her body had begun to heal itself. She could have this done hours ago when she made a clean break from the fire princess but after going down the river, out cold and waking up with two strangers had been a building point and forced her injuries to bleed again and black out second time.

Now that she sense their presence nowhere near, having gone for a walk she supposed and had given her the moment she needed, taking chance when she was in agony with her wounds.

Ok first step, breath deep and release… She inhaled and hissed under her breath, feeling her side burn and tried to ignore the pain when she exhaled and went back to condense her spiritual mediation on her body. Breath and release…and release…release…

Using the basics exercise from her everyday training, it took considerate amounts of concentration and willpower for the flow of energy and the blood cells and tissues to combine and repair the damage done and leave no scars on her skin.

Kuso! She tried not to think so much about the hot flare of tiny needles pricking her flesh and being stitched and bind together though to undergo it was painful and excruciating. Her brow broke out in a sweat and her body's temperature rise that could have the blanket and everything surrounding her afire if she wasn't holding back and set not to lose her center of mind.

That attack really made a number on her and she had been foolish to think she could get away unscathed when the bolt had been aimed directly for her. If she hadn't evaded that shot at the last second, she might have been killed or fatally wounded.

She recall how it cut the fabric of her cloth and skin so lightning fast, burning the outside as well as the inside. The fire searing its way through her flesh and crimson blood flowing down her side, sticking to her clothes against her skin.

How much more must I endure with what I've been through, how much pain I must suffer with what has been taken? She was coming in and out but couldn't last long without having her thoughts spinning wildly out of control. They lashed out to torture her as she tried to fight the reality she had witness, the horror she seen right before her very eyes. Tears escaped and streaked down her face while remembering what has been destroyed and lost.

Her home, their beloved kingdoms burned to the ground and probably ashes, scattered to the four winds.

None left of its once former glory and beauty, nothing but the memory and a brokenhearted dream.

Her family, friends and the people she loved and cared for, all dying, no one spared from the raging battle, screams rising in the air. Her okasan fighting in the fiery garden inside a deadly ring of fire, 'Live long Ryoko…' and send to this foreign world alone with no idea how she got here and no one to comfort. Then that princess wench sending her over the edge of the cliff really made her day.

She with her mocking smile of victory, shooting a bolt of lightning at her and laughing as she bellow out in pain. Ryoko tightens her hands into fist, her nails sharpening and penetrating the skin and biting into the flesh of her palm. Her teeth lengthen and her jaws protruded and elongated, smoke flaring through her nostrils.

Her metamorphosis fueled by anger and rage seethe inside increased tenfold and she wishes for nothing more then to ripped both that repugnant smile and woman apart to tiny pieces.

If I ever have to come across facing her again, I'm going to tear her limb from limb; I'll use her bones as toothpicks and make sure nothing is left or recognizable when I'm through with her. I'll like to see the look on her face when she going up against a real yokai, to feels one's wrath like never before…

She imagine the princess shaking with unimaginable fear as she attacked and ripped her clothes and skin to shreds, pinning her struggling body underneath with her talons and in her flesh to lie her still.

Her eyes reflect true horror at the demon she'd become, a full monstrous dragon demon opening her jaw wide to reveal the long array of ivory fangs that were ready to end her life. She could almost taste the sweet tangy hot liquid that would swept inside her mouth, her muzzle stain red with her blood and went to bite deep into her throat…

RYOKO! Ryoko stopped, that voice! Suddenly the terrified fire princess gone and was standing in a dark abyss with Lady Yuki-onna right in front for her to see. Her hair held in an elaborate coif with jeweled combs holding it in place, wearing a violet silk robe with a gold dragon embroidered. It was the same attire she wore during the banquet when the attack occurred. Before her passing into the underworld…

Okasan! Is that really you? Her heart leapt and almost caught in her throat, not sure whether to speak if to diminish this dream but her happiness was short-lived when she saw Yuki-onna staring crestfallen and disappointed and wondering why she look so disgruntle all the same.

What in Shijin are you thinking, you know better than to be considering such terrible thoughts. I raised and taught you not to be rash and reckless, did all your teaching go to waste? Never in many centuries have I thought to see the day my own daughter would…her impeccable voice scolding her and Ryoko felt terrible for putting her through this and lowered her head, not wanting to bear disgrace towards her.

Yuki-onna stopped what she was saying and reached out, Ryoko flinch but relax when she stroke her cheek and smooth her mane back, her cool touch sending waves of renew strength through her body and spirit. Yuki-onna held her face to stare at eye level with hers, gazing deeply into her dark mystic orbs, and her voice becoming gentle as she spoke.

The sacred laws forbid these and we have kept this from happening as it is against our nature to do what we feel towards the humans, even after so long. Though others would disapprove but you are not like them. Whatever you do, don't stoop to their level. It won't help change things to the way they were or bring back those who are gone...

Ryoko knew that what she said was true yet couldn't control what she had to say, her tears running down her scaly silver cheek and to feel her okasan brush them away.

I know but I can't help what has happened to you, our home and everyone. How can you be acting so calm when they took you away from us, it wasn't fair and you didn't deserve this!

She roared, the emptiness in the room echo and again feeling that she shouldn't have at her own dead mother, shamefully turn and dropped her gaze, none of us did…

Yuki-onna nodded, giving her sentiment to her only child, recognize and understood her pain and sorrow. She touch her and Ryoko lift her head to see the unshed tears she had and wanted to rid them like she had done for her, reaching a clawed digit and Yuki-onna grabbed her scaly palm in her pale transparent hands.

I know that you do but fate overpowers all of us and we have to let our destinies runs its course. We cannot prevent what's written in the stars, so please do not burden yourself like this.

What's done is done, it's in the past now and only the future remains uncertain and you must take the road you've decide and follow.

The reason I came to you now were to give you warning and my time is short as of now. So please listen and heed my words carefully: In what you must face, whatever you do, do not allow such dangerous thoughts or emotion take full command over you. If you crave such bloodlust, it will only lead to more devastation and destruction in the end.

Remember never forget who you are my daughter, my Ryoko-chan. Her okasan turned away and her body was slowly fading before her. Until we meet again in the afterlife…farewell…

Okasan! Wait! She called out, her voice coming out a gruff roar but she vanished, leaving her alone in the dark and sadly knew she had to wake up back to the world of the living.

She open her eyes and saw she was lying next to a bonfire and sense them not too far away, the two men walking back towards camp.

She sat up and stretched, hearing a slight crack but didn't pay any heed, knowing her body had completely healed of all its injuries. Then she covered her mouth, suppressing a yawn and felt it odd and touch around further, feeling scales covering every inch of her face, a semi-long snout and pulled back her hands and stared at the three sharp digit claws they've become. She must have transform while she was asleep, not knowing how it got trigger to be exact but now wasn't the time to figure this out. She knew what could possible happen if the two return and saw her like this then…

I'm good as dead that pretty much summons it up! Ok don't panic, you have to stay calm and concentrate! She tried to speed the process, knowing they were drawing near, their footsteps pounding the ground, telling her they were just a few steps from coming. A twig snapped and almost made her start to lose her focus and her heart racing fast in her chest and she had to breath slower and willed her body to change. Their voices became louder and the scrapping of underbrush as they approach.

Oh Kami, they're here! No gotta keep my thoughts intact and can't risk getting distracted now, I have to change back! Can't let them see me like this, I can't…

She felt her face convert back to normal, the bone repositioning and skin stretching over to become smooth again, her jaw ache and would be sore for quite a while but that didn't matter. Only her hands were taking longer than expected and she could hear the two coming and quickly hid under the blanket and feign sleep.

They were talking quietly, well the old man was and the other was ranting hotly and pacing angrily when they came. Her sensitive ears picked up what they were saying, mostly hothead's as anyone could and had to be deaf not to. She turned slightly and noticed that he was waving his arms in the air and shouting at the old man.

"…Are you kidding me uncle? You have to be joking with what you're suggesting! The answer is no, we have enough trouble of our own as it is. Especially with Azula after us!" Zuko spat out his sister's name like poison that left a bad taste on his tongue.

Never again would he ever trust that snaking lying witch, not after the last time, he swore to himself after he cut ties with his nation. There was no going back and had to head from hereon then, wherever their path may go and hope to avoid his sister as much as possible. He knew that she with every intention would love to serve his head on a platter to their father rather than come back home alive as a prisoner. "And we don't need to be sidetrack with anything or anyone, is that clear?"

Iroh was about to tell him to calm down and lower his voice when he noticed her sitting up and turning to look towards them. Oh well it was already too late anyways.

He rubbed his temple, hoping that their argument hadn't disturbed her rest and caused her to wake up, though he doubt it and must she have heard everything they've said in the last few minutes. So much for trying to keeping it quiet but with his nephew and stubborn temper, there would be no silent.

Ryoko had heard everything they said and at the mention of the princess's name perked her attention, Azula? That name sound familiar, I know it but whose?

She search her memories, trying to recall where she heard it and all of a sudden groan and putting her face in her hands. "Oh don't tell me it's that pyromaniac princess?" She kneads her temple, feeling a throbbing migraine coming on at how the pestering woman had found another way to annoy her by entering her thoughts. "She almost had me burn to a crisp if I hadn't made an escape jumping into the river. I swear that woman is a serious menace to society." She look to see they were both gapping at her with their faces drained of all color and eyes ready to pop out all of a sudden. She stared at them confused, wondering why they were like this, "What, was it something I said?"

"Azula's here!" Zuko shouted, turning around as if expecting said princess to come out and attack. Ryoko tried not to roll her eyes or laugh or do both, watching his reaction was amusing in her view, "Yeah but I don't think she is anymore. She was in the town I had been and chase me all over with her thugs." And cause a lot of property damage and people getting injured while escaping her goons and her royal high ass, she silently added and sighed, "Orders me to be taken into custody just because I made an open comment about that speech she made." Ryoko placed her hand under her chin thinking to herself, "I didn't see any problem being honest and open and she had asked for it…" They stood there listening and couldn't believe she hadn't realized that what she did might have been the reason for her arrest.

Shaking her head, she got up and grab the blanket and wrapped it around her, "She's annoying and an egotistic, I'll give you that much. I can think of some other description to fit her but I don't think you want to hear the whole list. To put it shortly, she's a she-demon in princess's clothing." She walked to where her kimono was hanging from the branch and set to tug it down.

Zuko had the pleasure of knowing his sister his whole life and would be able to cover everything Azula was and she had complimented half of them.

She-demon in princess's clothing, the mental imagine of Azula with horns, long fangs and a demon tail sticking out did seem like her but he wasn't going to say that as he still didn't trust her and wasn't going to, not wanting to have the wool pulled over his eyes again.

"Well you're not the only one to go up against her, me and Zuko here had a run in ourselves you see and—" Iroh was interrupted by Zuko who cut him off, knowing what his uncle was thinking.

"For the last time, no! There's no way, no how I'm allowing her to come and that's final. I'm putting my foot down as it is. We don't know anything about this girl and you expect me to believe her story and join us. For all we know whatever she's saying could be rhinoceros dung and is probably working for Azula and lead us into a trap!"

Ryoko turned and place her hands on her hips, frowning and shot a look at him as if he grew a third eye or sprout a second head. "Excuse me, don't talk as if I'm not here! Haven't you listened to a word I said, she tried to arrest and kill me! Does that sound like a start of a perfect partnership to you? No I don't think so! Beside I would never, I repeat never in a million centuries work for her or be hanging with the likes of that abazuren'na!"

She crossed her arms and huffed, "And if you don't want my company then that's fine by me, I'll make my leave, seeing how I don't need yours anyway," And taking one last look in Zuko's direction and glower with a stare that could have froze him where he stood if he was paying any attention to her, "especially you, you baka!" She shouted loud enough for him to hear and turn before he could make any retort.

She went behind the trees and donned the former garments, deciding she would change later after she took a bath to freshen up. The blood had washed out and dirt caked and dried over and there was a large tear on the left side and used her obi to circle twice to cover it. Her kimono would be in need of stitching and a good scrubbing if she planned to ever wear it again.

She could still heard them talking, not taking any notice as she finished getting dressed and tied her sash tightly around her waist and walk over to her pack lying nearby. She hoped there had been anything lost or stolen, knowing whatever possession she had was essential for her survival. Nothing seems missing and pulled it over her shoulder, ready to go before she overheard what Zuko said next with her back to them.

"Hmph, we don't need someone like her anyways uncle, she'll only slow us down. I mean she probably wouldn't last a day in the wilderness and bet you anything couldn't even catch her own food if it was right in front of her face…"

Ryoko stopped in her track, dropping her bag to the ground and making a dull thud. Her eyebrow twitching with each sentence spoken and held a fist, shaking in front of her face, gnashing her fangs and her nails biting in the flesh of her palm. She had to stay calm and keep herself under control, remembering what happened last time in her fit of anger but it became hard as Zuko's words ran inside her head.

Teme why that little, no good, son of a—I'll show him! And in less than a second flat, drew a kunai, spinning the dagger around the hook on one finger then grasp by the handle and threw it straight between the two before either had a chance to react after seeing a silvery blur passed in front of their eyes.

Zuko when he saw that the shot was coming at him, zipping at such speed with deadly precision stumbled back like a drunk and hitting the dirt hard and look where it flew from and saw her standing there.

"You should've seen yourself just now. Couldn't see that even if it was right in front of you." Saying almost in the exact manner he did with a slight smile on her face given away, watching him glare fiery daggers at her and had to hold back a snicker at his loss of words.

Zuko jump to his feet and shouted in furious rage, "What the Hell! What are you trying to do woman, kill me!" Then spun ticked to his uncle, pointing at her and yelled, "See I told you we couldn't trust her, just look what she almost done!"

Ryoko rolled her eyes at his last remark and pull a stray bang behind her ear. Feh! If I did I'd aimed a lot closer than that so be grateful I didn't you miserable spoiled ill-tempered pup! She saunters over, ignoring Zuko's hateful glowering and scrutinize through the foliage and held up both her kunai and a rabbit by the ears to behold.

"Here there should be plenty on this one." She tossed it to Iroh and then turn her attention to Zuko, "And as for you, we have an old saying where I come from: cut off a wolf's head and it will bite your arm right off so I watch myself if I were you."

She walked towards him and Zuko back away with each step, retreating until he was against a tree and the rough bark scratched his clothes and she advance further and stop in front of him. He had first thought she was making a ridiculous bluff but when she started advancing towards him and saw the iris darkens and her pupils' dilated, spreading till it was pitch-black.

A warning bell rang inside his head, letting him know she wasn't someone to be reckon with, that it would be like heading directly into a dangerous raging storm, just waiting to consume and drag him down to the darkest depths of her own. Now he had been trapped and cornered like an elephant rat and she, the predator, thinking on what to do with her prey as she edge in, blocking his escape with her body. This was an inconvenient situation he gotten himself into and taking advantage of his slight discomfort she proceed in her advance.

He was a couple inches taller than she but that didn't intimidate her as she lean in, her chest brushing his and her hands running and touching him over. Her fingers graze and pluck at the fabric of his shirt, grabbing the skin itself every now and then and heard the small intake of breath when she made a slight nab on his nipple.

Satisfy with getting a reaction out of him as planned though awed with what emotions she felt fluttering in the pit of her stomach but wasn't certain as to why. She didn't think about it so much and push the thought aside and made calculation on how far she would have to get him for him to go over the edge and surrender to her whim, otherwise he might turn the tables on her, which would be no fun at all in her case.

Time to see if I can really bring this up a notch and get him to pass beyond the point… She smiled inwardly and stood on her toes and tilt her chin upward to peer at him through half shut eyes, seeing how she caught him further off guard with her actions.

Their faces almost having their lips touch, warm breath mingling and Zuko thought she might try and kiss him. His heart was hammering uncontrollable, his restraints almost loose and going wild and wasn't sure what to do except stare at her.

Her eyes had become light blue once more, the tempest passed and as calm as the sea, shimmers of silver and white swirled and dance around, forming a long snake-like beings that move with grace and agility spiraling faster around the pupil and couldn't take his eyes away from them.

Never had he felt this way before, not for anyone but somehow with her, lost in those memorizing orbs that entrance him and couldn't help but want to taste the mystery of her forbidden fruit. She sense the confusion and uncertainty, watching the many expression cross over but he was giving in and had him right where she wanted and pulled back. Zuko was surprised by her sudden withdraw and not sure whether to be relief or disappoint, wondering why he thought the latter when he shouldn't but was able to breath easier when she did. She smirked and couldn't resist pulling one last trick from her sleeve.

"Let me make one thing clear to you and trust me when I say this," She spoke in a husky tone, her eyes boring into his, grabbing his attention again, "I can do much worse than a wolf if you don't keep your comments to yourself otherwise those will be the last words you're ever going to say, got that!" She hissed and then jabbed two fingers into his chest and turn from him. Zuko blinked and felt pain radiated from the ribs and would find a bruise later. He came back to his senses and realized what she did, having toyed and teased and he had taken the bait and she made a fool out of him. His eyes narrowed as he stared at her back. He would not have some woman who thought she could mess with him and walk without a second thought.

Who does she think she is, how dare she pull that stunt on me like that and think she can get away with it? He grabbed her arm and spun her around to look her straight in the eyes and glared, sparks of static lightning could have been seen passing between them as she with much force directed back at him.

Iroh was watching the two; seeing how this girl had shown off to his nephew, with an almost an alluring temptation and then given him a piece of her mind and now were lock in a staring contest, Zuko still holding her within his grasp and she stared defiling at him. It would have seem passionate the way the two were poised if they were romantically involved but preparing to kill each other or melt their eyes out of the sockets.

He wasn't sure how long this would last but not wanting to have any fists flying, Zuko clenching his, ready to ignited and smoke starting to curl around them. Iroh decided he better intervene before things got really out of control.

"Both of you cease and disseat immediately! There's no need for any of this." He pulled the two apart and stood in between to keep them separated long enough to hear out his advise, "Look the way I see it, we're all up against the Fire Nation and Azula is going to hunt after the three of us, knowing how determination runs in the family." Zuko scowled, crossing his arms over his chest and Iroh continue, "Perhaps if we work together, then our chances of survival will be better matched." Finished with what he said, Iroh walked to the small bonfire and added another log while placing the rabbit on a large stone to be skinned, "Now let's put this squabble aside for the moment and enjoy a nice lunch that miss…"

Ryoko finally thinking it was really pointless to deal with the hotheaded baka anyways, turn to the old man and said politely, "It's Ryoko. My name is Ryoko."

"Ah and what a befitting name for someone as beautiful and talented as yourself. And such a fine throw too you did. I have never seen anyone done before with what you did. Must have taken years to mastered such ability with precise focus and speed, direct to your target."

Ryoko smiled and thanked him, saying it was unnecessary but he insisted and took his compliment to heart, taking an instant liking to the old man. Zuko snorted, believing it was luck that her shot got the rabbit and thought if she had aimed closer, it could have cut off his nose clear from his face and grateful that didn't happen.

Iroh slapped his forehead, "Now where are my manners, I'm forgetting to introduces ourselves. I'm Iroh and standing beside you is my nephew Zuko." Ryoko blinked and saying bluntly, "This annoying, immature, smart mouth is your nephew. I don't see any resemblance between you two, especially in personality where his could dry up a lake with his hot temper."

Zuko shot her a glare while Iroh nodded, stiffening a chuckle seeing how his nephew looked ready to throw fireballs at their new traveling companion. "Well now please sit down you two and lets start cooking this rabbit here, anyone all right with stew then?"

Ryoko and Zuko reluctantly did and sat on the other side of Iroh, not wanting to be anywhere near each other and Zuko watch her closely. She used the hem of her skirt to wipe her blade clean of the blood, dirtying it further and laying it down and look up to find him staring.

"If I were you, I wipe that off." He wasn't getting what she meant and she tapped the bridge on her nose, pointing out. "You got something on you, right there." He touched his and pulled back and found his fingers coated red.

He stared at his digits to her before he heard his uncle speaking, "Zuko the rabbit needs to be cooked and we're low on firewood, would you go and get some more please."

Zuko got up, cursing and muttering as he left. Iroh turn his attention to her and said once he was out of earshot, "Forgive my nephew for his 'behavior' but he's not always like this, I just thought it best for him to blow off some steam than have it around you if that's all right."

Ryoko shrugged brushing it off, not surprised to see the frustrated teen leave, "I seen others worse than him so I'm pretty use to it. You should try and meet my otosan, now he has his moods cause he's a drag—" She stopped and tried to fix it before he noticed the slip, "Being stubborn and temperamental but when he's around okasan, he can be gentle and calm." The moment those words passed her lips and realizing what she just said, hit her harder than she could possibly imagine.

Again the thought that her mother was no longer alive in her world and feared the worst for her father made her inside churn, feeling that she wanted to let it out but couldn't.

Was he even alive, had he survive and was unaware of her disappearance or looking for her as she speaks? She wanted to very much to hope so but from what had been going on, her expectations were running on a thin line.

She gazed at the fire, watching how it kindled and glowed and not wanting to break down again at the memories of everything that was lost, turned her head away, her bangs falling in her face and stared at the ground. Iroh saw the sadness and grief within her eyes though she didn't look at him but knew something must have happened for her to be so lost and silent all of a sudden.

Is she homesick, was she worried about her family? Did something terrible happen to them and gotten separated perhaps? He wanted to ask these questions, concern over the young woman, uncertain how he should confront them seeing that she seem ready to cry.

"Ryoko is something troubling you? Do you want to talk about it?" She didn't answer him and he understood, having dealt with a stubborn nephew half the time with emotional problems. "If you don't want to that's fine but sometimes it's better to discuss and get them off your chest than keep your emotions bottled in. Nothing is ever fixed unless you let your problems be released." Ryoko glance up at him and hearing the wise words he spoke just now, reminded her so much of her mother's own and always open up whenever she could.

Perhaps if she told him about what she was thinking, maybe the burden weighing over her would lift a bit.

"Iroh-san, I…" Before she had a chance to speak, Zuko returned with a bunch of twigs and drop the pile next to them.

"Here, that's should be enough. If you need me I'll be off training." In other words don't bother coming after me or else! "Let me know when lunch is ready." and stalked off again, heading back to practice some firebending drills. Iroh shook his head, giving Ryoko an apologetic regard, "Well his mood will lessen when he's done and his hunger gets the best of him. In the meantime why don't we take the time to get to know each other, how does that sound?"

She smiled faintly, feeling slightly better and found it might be nice to talk with someone, "All right, Iroh-san but you have to go first and tell me about you and your nephew then I'll go and if you have any questions, ask and I'll answer them, deal?"

Iroh nodded, though curious why she added 'san' at the end of his name but began explaining about him and Zuko, their lives from the palace, their home, describing the Fire Nation from their childhood, how Zuko was once a prince, their travels together out on the sea.

He told her almost everything, well actually he did cut out some explicit details from a few that would be too embarrassing and didn't dare make mention yet.

There's only one that I won't speak of, the one that occurred three years ago, it would be Zuko's story to tell and only if he willing enough to let her know but she might find out sooner or later either way.

She listened and didn't interrupt or ask question until he finished until it was her turn. She didn't dare to make mention for one about who she really was, just bits and pieces and that was it to possible satisfy his curiosity.

No matter how much she wanted to put her full reliance and tell him the real truth, her secret was not to be spoken to among any outsider unless in a life or death situation and was compelled under matter of circumstances. He asked a few times while they cooking lunch, setting the pieces in the pot and stirred it along with the chopped vegetables she bought. The stew was almost to a boil and made their mouths water when they caught the wonderful aroma coming from the kettle.

"Better get Zuko and tell him that the food's ready." Ryoko watched him go, heading in the direction to where his nephew went to go fetch him. While he was gone, she was thinking about what Iroh had told her in the last half hour. He and Zuko were from the Fire Nation, the one Azula mentioned the two fugitives, traitors to the crown and Zuko was a banished exile prince.

She kept wondering why he was cast out of his own kingdom and how they could possible be wanted criminals when his uncle seem so goodhearted and generous and even the hothead, Zuko must be somewhere though buried deep inside underneath his stubborn attitude like his uncle said.

If she could she would have ask for him to clarify but he change the subject and talk about what they had done on the ship for the past three years, playing Pai Sho, music night with the crew, seeing the beautiful sights and the towns or villages to restock supplies and getting all kinds of tea or trinkets for himself that would make the prince infuriated by their constant stops. He told her of a story where he once thought he lost a lotus tile and that the small disk had been in his sleeve the whole time.

She had to giggle at the end of that tale and thought he was kind and sweet, not to mention funny with how he knew to make her feel better with what he said. He reminded her so much of her former sensei, the one that loved to make jokes or tell comical stories after a hard day of training, taking away the stress of her lessons and leaving her with a smile and a chuckle.

"You just like my sensei Iroh-san." He smiled and asked who, which sensei and she realized what she said, thinking she might say too much and to which lead to altering discussion and talking about others that lead them away from the recent conversation.

I have to be more careful with what I say. I can't let him know anything else than I've already told. Though I can't help but want to but still mustn't under any condition reveal that I really am.

Right now, sitting by the fire she pondered if she should ask where they were planning to go. She had no idea and needed someone who had the vast knowledge and these two were the only ones she could so far count on, having gone all around by sea and despite Zuko with his temper issue, Iroh might oblige to help in anyway possible and enlighten her with directions.

Though she said she would better off on her own, maybe when they reach the next town and then they could go their own separate ways.

She didn't have to wait long as she saw them returning and decided to be of some use and help serve the food, setting the stew into three small bowls, one for each. She handed the bowl to Iroh and Zuko when they took a seat, Iroh giving her thanks while Zuko said nothing but she didn't have to take any from him as she took her own and seeing she had no utensils but her hands and held it to her face and blew to cool.

"Itadakimasu!" She said and sipped it slowly, allowing the hot liquid to pour down her throat. Zuko and Iroh were again confused and shrugged as they too drank down the hot stew, not caring if it burn their tongues as they were use to it plus they were firebenders. The stew had been appetizing, meat still cooked tender and was delicious when they took bites and chew on them, savoring the taste. She was starting to feel eyes on her again and saw Zuko regarding her. She had lost count over how many times he had been doing this since she got here and was almost ready to tell him to go look somewhere else. She took a deep breath and said, "You know it's rude to watch someone while they eat? It makes me feel as if you're making judgments on how I'm eating or better yet my manners, which I don't go around talking about yours."

Zuko scoffed, "Yeah well you don't seem to eat like a peasant with the way you're handling your food like that. If I didn't know better I say you were raised higher than that but then what can I expect when I have yet to figure who you really are. Then again I think I can tell what you are just from your appearance that alone."

She blinked and was surprised to have been caught off guard with what he said. It was true, she had been separated her meat with her fingers, bit by bit, without the aid of a knife and ate with small delicate bites as her mother and advisors taught her.

But her confusion didn't last as it turn to one of anger at the way he insulted her and her custom, trying to keep her emotions at bay and not risk exposing her true nature.

Remember what okasan said, don't let them overpower you, take deep breath now and excuse yourself before you make your situation worse by wanting to strangle that yarou.

She set her bowl down and stood up, turning to Iroh and bowed with her hands clapped together in front of her face, "Arigato Iroh-sama for letting me have lunch with you." And went over to grab a set of clothes and towel from her pack and walked towards the forest.

They watched her leave, mostly Zuko who couldn't stop and rethink what he just did and had expected a reaction from her but she just smiled and left. Not like it was any of his faults. He picked up another piece and took his time chewing it, the taste suddenly losing flavor and spat it out, the succulent meat was now burnt to a crisp and look like charcoal on the ground.

He had been eating like when he had been living in the palace with his family and even on the ship and though without the aid of a fork and knife at his uses, kept some manners to it by not indulging like a savage glutton. But as he had been about to grab a piece of bread he had seen her hands moving delicately at her food, picking them apart with her slender fingers. Using her forefinger and thumb to move towards her lips in dainty morsels. She didn't eat like some peasant; no it was almost like she had been taught some elegance in royalty.

But her clothes, well he couldn't help the way they show too much of her skin, especially her legs that were crossed at the ankles and her belt had been tied too loosely and could see the bondage under them and hanging open at the chest regions.

What's her deal? All I say was that she wasn't eating like someone below level and then strolls off. "Weird girl, she should be grateful I said something nice to her, didn't mean she had to—" He stop as the words came to replay in his mind, Wait a second! I did not just say what I think I did! Agni help me, I just compliment a peasant girl GAH! He tried to shake that thought and went back to his stew, trying to push down the sick fluttering feeling in the pit of his stomach and hope not to choke when he swallowed it down fast.

Iroh noticed his nephew's pallid appearance but didn't say anything, figuring that it might be better to let him deal with whatever was making him ail and ate the rest of his dish.

Zuko turn to his uncle after getting his system to settle down but could feel it scathing the inside of him. He wondered if maybe what had been passed between them, knowing they must've traded stories with each other and had to figure what she might have told and see if there was any connection with what he observed.

"What did you talk about exactly, did she tell you anything about herself, like who she was or where she's from?"

Iroh sipping down the last of his food, wiped his mouth with the back of his hand then turn to him, thinking back what they talked about. "Hmm, well she did mention she wasn't from around here, that she's from some place else and traveled far from her old home. I think she must've said something about trying to find some old friends or relatives though I doubt that's the case. But listen whatever secrets she has, one must give time and patience for her to open them if she trusts us enough and wishes to let us know as we are not to pry, it's none of our business. Is that understood?"

Zuko didn't say anything after as he helped clean up and put the dishes away and then went off to train again. Iroh heaved a small tired sigh. Ryoko was certainly a mystery as he had seen the way she avoid some topics that had to do with her, about the home she was from, her family. When he asked about her language she told him it was common where she came from and also had been taught to learn other dialect, explaining how she had been able to speak in theirs so fluent. But like he told his nephew, he was going to respect her privacy and let her choose if she wish to let them in on herself.

When the time is right she might let us know what's really on her mind… He yawned and went to lie down, his stomach content with the food they had and took a nap to pass the time before either his nephew or Ryoko were to return. Somehow he figures those two had more to each other than they thought and grinned in his sleep.

She wasn't heading to the river like they thought she would, no, she had quickly sense a spring nearby, a few minutes of walking to get there and hiked her way through to have a place of privacy where no one was able to disturb her for the time and bathe peacefully.

Well at least no one to come peeping on me that's for sure! She was still pissed as she made to the clearing, "Stupid baka! No good hentai yarou!"

She set down her new clothes and quickly removed her old ones and waded in the water, scrubbing the grime and dirt that was stuck on her and her former garments and had then set out to dry by the rocks. She settled herself in, trying to ease her tension but Zuko kept popping into her mind, along with the words he spoke.

"Hmph that baka prince, what would he know, I swear the nerve of him, 'you sure don't eat like a peasant, then again I think I can tell what you are just from your appearance', how dare he call me that. What an insult!" She submerged under the water then resurfaces and step out, using the towel to dry hastily and then don her new attire.

Her kimono was crystal blue and became lighter at the top and bottom, two identical white dragons crests slithered from her shoulders to her collar. Her hakama was sashinuki style traditional gathered at the ankles and produced a flowing 'balloon' effect.

She grabbed the obi lying on the ground, white with splashed of blue-violet and tied the long flowing sash around her waist and the ebony flat pointed ankle-high boots, just her size.

She pulled on her gauntlet wristbands that reached to her elbows and then sat down, staring at the water, trying to put her mind at ease.

She found a flat pebble and threw it, seeing the stone skip a couple times before sinking in. She saw the ripples expand and the circles wider then the surface becoming smooth again and her reflection staring back at her. She gaze at it then blink and found the person peering back was one when she was young, fourteen and a half springs and suddenly remembered the time when she had been sitting in her family's garden, under the large sakura tree waiting for her otosan, singing a tune she made up a few days ago.

"Now how did that go again?" She closed her eyes and hummed, the lyrics slowly coming into her mind...

In the mountain,

In the wind,

In the forest,

In the spring,

Where are you Seiryu?

With Suzaka, Byakko and Genbu.

Yuki-onna will wait until you come,

I will wait alone until you come Seiryu please return.

She was given a message to come after everyone had fallen asleep and wondered what it could be that he summoned her this late in the evening.

She tried to pass the time by creating a small orb of water over the surface, making small intricate movements, the orb spiraling into a snake and around her wrist, snaking up her arm up and down. It wasn't until she sensed someone's presence that made her dropped it and turned to see the figure approaching.

In his daiyokai form, a powerful dragon with scales of azure blue and eyes that reflect fire, ice, and any element he desires.

Ryoko bowed respectively, her forehead touching the ground, "Ohayo otosan welcome back."

He said nothing but saw that he was shifting to his other form as he walked over and took a seat beside her. She waited, knowing that what he had to say would be important and had to stay quiet to hear every word he spoke. Her father and lord of the Eastern kingdom, a giant towering over six feet with long dark hair pulled back in a ponytail and reaching his lower back. His armadillo rim-like armor ran across his chest and around his shoulder, the blue and white kimono, a new fashion from the mainland they've had imported recently from the southern reign.

"Tell me Ryoko, has your mentors taught you yet about the seishuku?" She did, remembering that they were the constellations for each of the four sacred Shijin of the many who had descended eons ago blessed by another legendary being though she did not know its name. She didn't know why they were but she obeyed and told him, "Hai, Kazuma sensei said there were seven for each ancestors, for Genbu's, for Byakko's, for Suzaka's, and for yours, otosan." She smiled, knowing her father would be please to know she remembered.

"Do you know what our families' seven seishuku are?" She bit her lip trying to think and shook her head, knowing she did not, "No, we were studying Byakko's after Genbu's and our next lesson was to be on Suzaka's—" Her father turn his solemn face to her and she lowered her eyes, feeling she might have offended him in some way. He stood up, the swishing of his kimono flowing in the wind and heard him speak in a serious manner.

"I'll inform Kazuma to switch lessons, you need to be learning this soon and start your training, do you know why it's essential for you to learn and understand about the seishuku?" Again she had no idea and he look up to the sky where the stars were shining brightly above, "With the seven constellation, they contain a rare power for those within the branch of each our families.

"Byakko the white tiger and guardian of the West grant those within his descendants. Suzaku the red phoenix and guardian of the South grant those within her descendants. Genbu the black turtle serpent and guardian of the North, he grants those within his reptilian descendants. And we…" He waited as she said almost timidly, "Seiryu, the blue dragon and guardian of the East and you grant those within our descendants."

She followed her father's gaze to the constellations, finding theirs as her father pointed out each and every one of them. "Su Boshi, Ami Boshi, Tomo Boshi, Soi Boshi, Nakago Boshi, Ashitare Boshi, and Mi Boshi. Those are the names of the seishuku we have and the source to our own capability. Remember, we draw from them certain energy to give us ten-fold our power as time goes by." He point to her heart and she stared down at it as he continues.

"The chi in our bodies is the principal key that hold the seven Celestialgates and to help combine the seishuku so that we may use the elements around us. There are more but it will take a few more centuries to learn them. Do you realize why I am telling you this and see how significant they are to us and our kind?" He then turn and started heading for the manor, "Tomorrow your training will resume but only with that you must pay close attention to everything you're told. You will be practice the exercise of the seishuku, each one until you mastered all seven, is that clear?"

She was about to say she did, understanding what she must do when a new voice was calling out her name, interrupting her focus and feeling the clearing and her father disappearing from her sight.

"Ryoko, Ryoko."

"Ryoko, Ryoko…." Ryoko opened her eyes, her voice still humming the song and stopped and stood up as Iroh came through the trees, calling out her name and saw her, "Ah there you are? I was looking everywhere for you. I see you took your time, finding a nice spring." She turned her attention above them, the now setting sun crimson red and the sky a gold blend with shades of light pink and orange.

How long had she been out? Had she been so long in her memory that she had forgot the time? As if reading her mind, he said, "I woke up and saw Zuko return. He said it was time to head on for the next town so I decided to go find you." She blushed and gathering her dried clothes and walked beside him back together. They made it back to camp, finding Zuko still packing up.

"Zuko we're back. We can go when you're ready." Iroh called out to his nephew who didn't turn around but grumbled, "About time you show up..."

He sighed and turn to Ryoko, "It's all right, don't pay any heed to what he said." Ryoko didn't as she walked passed Zuko, not even giving him a hello as she went to fetch her bag.

Her back turn, searching through her pouch and getting out two blue beads and sliding them on the long strands in front of her face and used a ribbon to pull the rest up in a high ponytail. She slides the gilded gold armbands on her bicep, two matching pair of dragons; one encrusted with sapphires for eyes, the other with emeralds.

Finally when she finished she turn and saw Zuko was staring questioning at her attire, "What in the world is that you're wearing pray tell?"

She crossed her arms, seeing nothing wrong with how she was dressed although knowing that it was probably going to attract attention on her, "What, it's not like it's any different where I come from, it's just a unlike the style your wearing, plus it much comfortable and more suitable for me on travel." She spun on one foot and trying to see how his face was as she showed off, teasing to get some reaction from him, "Like it Zuko?"

Like it, Zuko had to keep his jaw from sliding open and turn his eyes away before she could realize that he was gawking at her ensemble. Her blue kimono and pants were clearly not from around here and could tell that nobody in any of the four countries would be wearing that to be sure. She could have pass for an exotic princess joining the seraglio. Every man would have their eyes glued on her and suddenly felt a burning fury inside, thinking how men would drool at the sight of her, their eyes hinting with lust, starving like ravenous wolfbats after fresh blood.

Iroh came and gave his stun nephew a pat on his shoulder, "Actually I don't think it looks that bad, in fact perhaps we should consider getting new clothes don't you agree? Tell me, where exactly did you get those pants, I find them very interesting, especially how it gathers right at the ankles like so." Ryoko told him they were called sashinuki, whatever that was. "I see I'll have to remember that." He turn to Zuko who still seem to be in a daze and waved a hand over his face, shaking his shoulder for effect, "Come on we best get going if we want to reach the next town before nightfall."

"I have to agree with your oji-san." Ryoko slide her sheath onto her obi and turn to them, "We have to get moving then if we're going to be heading to some place for safety before Azula, that crazy sister of yours finds us."

When he heard the mentioned of his sister, Zuko snapped out of his state and turn to his uncle, "You told!" Iroh shrugged, not seeing how big the deal it was for her to know about their family, even the few eccentric ones like Azula herself. "I told her some things that I thought she should know about after all she's accompanying us only for a short while and you know heed a few warnings."

"Yeah well it better not be everything!" Ryoko stared at the pair questionable, what did he mean 'not everything'. Sure she knew Iroh must have kept some to himself, about him and Zuko but she wasn't going to start by inquiring them not while they still had to get going.

I might be wrong about Azula still not here and I don't think now is the time for us to argue over some petty things, if I need to know more, I'll find out some other time.

"Don't worry I don't do blackmail on people I meet the first time or anyone I come in contact with. That's against the Bushido code and those who dare to resort that are lower than dirt in my book but never break my word of honor to my own self. I've seen plenty and those who did, well let's just leave it that they're weren't so fortunate when I dealt with them." Zuko taken aback by her words but didn't show it as he and Iroh went to grab what they had and got ready to go, jumping on the ostrich horse and Ryoko followed them on foot.

Definition Japanese/English Meanings:

Hebi-Snake

Yokai-Demon (In a dictionary it's akurei but I used the one from the InuYasha series, but if you like this too let me know)

Yuki-onna-Snow woman (I'll give description of her if anyone wants)

Shijin-Four Guardian Beast (I'll give information on those too.)

Seiryu-Blue Dragon Guardian of the East

Hai-Yes

Okasan-Mother

Otosan-Father

Ryoko-Huntress

Kami-God

Yukatas-informal summer wear

Sensei(s)-teacher/instructor

Bokusen'on- grandfather wizard nettle tree

-San-Mr.; Mrs.; Ms.

Katachi-Shifter

Hanyo-half demon/half human

Asagao-Morning Glory

-Chan-used as a pet name for kids

Futon-bedding

Yogensha-fortuneteller

Obi-belt

Byakko-White Tiger guardian of the West

Suzaku-Red Bird (Phoneix) guardian of the South

Genbu-Black Warrior (Turtle with A Snake ((weird I know but these were the guardians) guardian of the North

Dai-Lord

Yōba-yokai horse

Hime-princess

Akuma kagebara-Devil's shadow rose

Otogibanshi-fairytales

Ningen-humans

Baka-idiot

abazuren'na-bitch

Hentai-Pervert

Anata wa dara desuka-Who are you?

Anata wa dara desuka, watakushi tada ima shiru de wataskushi Seiryu chikau ishi- Who are you! I demand to know right now or I swear by Seiryu will

Kuso-Shit! OW! (A lot of meanings can go with this but you get the picture)

Yarou-bastard

Blue Kitsune: If anyone wants to do a fanart for this story, by all means. I would like to see how some would see Katara/Ryoko or any other characters. Please Read and Review!