A huge HUGE thank you to all my reviewers, follows, and faves! I'm soo glad you guys are into my story. I honestly put 99% of myself into Felicity. So for you guys to like this really does mean A LOT. I hope all who read this story can understand that I type the way I talk, so yeah there are a few things that aren't grammatically correct but it's my own personal way of speaking or behaving. Knowing that you guys like it is the BEST BIRTHDAY PRESENT! Yeah, today it my Birthday! :)
And Now, on with the story!
P.S. Please let me know what you think, if you like it...if you don't. Give me any opinions or ideas you might have. Cause I really wanna know what you all think. :)
Happy Reading!
"Character is speaking aloud"
Character is thinking to them self
'Character is speaking through telepathy'
I really didn't know how much I was looking forward to getting to the port. I knew we were going to run into Zhao and, I HATED that guy. There were few people in the Avatar world that I didn't like and he was one of them. To put off this unwanted meeting as long as I could I dressed slowly.
All those youtude videos on 'How to wear a guy's shirt' were about to be put to the ultimate test. Luckily it was WAY too big. I slid my arms up through the neck hole and turned it around so the back of the shirt was in front. I crossed the sleeves of the shirt at my waist then wrapped them around to the back. I tied them nice and tight then tucked in the remaining bits so it looked neater. I took the sash and wrapped the belt around my waist and tucked my phone into it. There we go a knee-length red dress. If only I had some red lip stick, I could conquer the world.
"Sorry, it took me a while. I'm here," I hurried on deck. Uncle Iroh and Zuko were waiting at the front of the ship. "How do I look?" I did a little spin towards them.
"Well, Felicity, you look lovely. Where did you find that dress?" Uncle Iroh scratched his head, "I would have sworn we didn't find any ladies clothing."
Zuko turned on his heels and his eyes widened in shock, "What are you wearing?"
"Thank you, Uncle Iroh! It's not really a dress. It's your shirt," I poked Zuko in his chest. "I told you I would wear the clothes you gave me, but I was going to be myself. You, Prince fussy pants, said it was fine."
"I didn't know you were going to do something like this! Go put on those pants we gave you, NOW!" I could almost see smoke coming out of his ears.
"Zuko, you are not my father, you are not my lover, boyfriend, or husband. Therefore, you have no right to tell me what I must do. AND even if you were, all that would happen is this." I cleared my throat, "Hahaha, he's trying to order me around. How cute!"
Iroh laughed and offered me his arm, "I admire your strong spirit."
"Fine, do what you want." Zuko steamed.
"Zuko, I didn't know you understood me so well!" I just gave him a cheeky little smirk, and then turned watching the ship pull into the dock.
"I've been meaning to ask you, how do you know that Zhao will be here? And how do you know about Zhao at all?" Zuko stared over at me.
I turned to him, "I told you Zuko, I know a lot more than you would imagine. Let's just call it my future-knowing wisdom..." Yeah, that sounds good. I looked back at the shore. I felt the happy-go-lucky look on my face fade away. There were fire nation flags and buildings everywhere. I don't know why I was shocked. I knew it was like this, but actually seeing it for myself, filled me with sadness. This place used to be part Air Nomad land and now they are all gone.
"What's wrong?" Zuko asked.
"What?" I looked over at him. When did he get beside me? "Oh, it...it's nothing?"
"You're a terrible liar."
"And just when I thought you knew me," I laughed. "Au contraire mon cheri, I am an exquisite liar. You'll see."
"What did you say?" Oh right, they don't have French here.
"Au contraire mon cheri, means 'On the contrary my dear!' It's French, umm another language that is spoken where I'm from. Anyways, the point is, if and when I lie, you will never ever know it. I'm just that good." I 'walked' my fingers up his arm and winked. He tensed up right away. Man, he's fun to torture. "Don't you worry, Zuko, when it comes to lying and persuading people to do what I want I can't be beaten. My naughty-not-niceness skills could make your sister look like a saint."
"How do you know about my sister? Never mind, try to keep those skills of yours a secret. I don't need you showing off and drawing attention." Zuko was trying his best to give me an order without giving me an order.
Smart, fussy pants, reverse psychology but it won't work, "Aww, come on, Zuko, I'm the one telling you guys to keep your mouths shut. Yes, I've gonna a little better at them and yes, I would give anything to have a change to use the new trick I just learned how to do on Zhao, but I'm willing to put your needs above my own. That's just the kind of girl I am."
He grinned until he realized what I said then he got mad at me again, "What new trick? I told you that you are not to practice on my ship without supervision."
"Calm down, I was supervised. Uncle Iroh was with me."
"And stop calling him that!"
"Do you want to hear about my awesome musically based talents or not?" I gave him a raised eye brow look.
"Musically based?" He looked confused, but that was normal. Uncle Iroh and I were pretty confused as well.
I took a deep breath and started telling him what had happened, "It was last night. Uncle Iroh was training me on some basic firebending forms. The only time I had been able to make flames was when I was listening to my music that first day so he was training me to make them on my own. After I got a handful of forms memorized he told me to drill them, over and over." I was still sore from all the drills, "Well, I put in my head-phones and listened to my music while I ran the drills…."
"Head-phones?" He asked, puzzled.
"Oh yeah, these," I pulled out my phone from the wrapped belt. My head-phones where wrapped around my phone. "See I put them in my ears and listen to the music." He just nodded. "Anyways, I was doing the drills and I didn't notice Uncle Iroh had left to go get some tea for the two of us, and Lieutenant Jee saw that I was alone. I didn't mean to do it, but he scared me."
Zuko raised his one eye brow, "Do what?"
"Well, I was listening to music and I could hear him when he tapped my shoulder. It startled me, and I kind of…." I held out my hand to the ground and flexed my fingers. I had to think of a song in my head first, it wouldn't work it I didn't. When I had a good, heavy based song a pulse shot out from my hand. It looked kind of like Banshee's scream on that X-men movie. Since I wasn't actually listening to music it was small and out very powerful, but it made a sound like the way subs sound in a car.
I looked up at him, "That doesn't look like something that could hurt someone." He said mockingly.
"Ok, let me put in my head-phones and I'll give you a personal demonstration." I smirked somewhat evilly at him.
He just huffed at me, "Is that all?"
"Nope, I can also do this," I held out my hands as if sitting at a piano and moved my fingers as if playing the keys. I didn't remember much from my piano classes as a kid, but I play chopsticks a lot on my sister iPad.
Before he could say anything the ship finally stopped and the ramp lowered. Because of the damages it wasn't as seamless and quiet as it normally would have been. Zuko and Iroh went ahead of me but I could still hear them talking.
"Uncle, I want the repairs done as quickly as possible. I don't want to stay too long and risk losing his trail." Zuko ordered.
"You mean the Avatar?"
Zuko turned around to scold Uncle Iroh. "Don't mention his name on these docks. If word gets out that he's alive, every firebender will be out looking for him, and I don't want anyone getting in the way." Zuko was so busy silencing Uncle Iroh, that he didn't notice my best efforts to get his attention with the whole 'shut up/hand slicing neck' gesture.
"Getting in the way of what, Prince Zuko?" Face palm! Oh great it's Zhao!
"Captain Zhao."
I took these next few seconds to pop into Zuko's head. 'I told you, didn't I? Don't let your guard down!'
Zhao smirked, Jerk, " It's commander now and," He bowed to Iroh, "General Iroh. Great hero of our nation."
Iroh bowed in return, "Retired general."
Zhao turned a sharp look to Zuko, "The Fire Lord's brother and son are welcome guests anytime. What brings you to my harbor?"
His harbor, can I just say again, JERK!
Iroh gestured back to the ship, "Our ship is being repaired."
"That's quite a bit of damage."
"Yes. You wouldn't believe what happened." Zuko glanced at his uncle, and angrily commanded him as he gestured at Zhao." Uncle! Tell Commander Zhao what happened."
Again, Face Palm!
Iroh's eyes widened in surprise as he was addressed by Zuko, "Yes. I will do that. It was incredible!" He turned to Zuko from the corner of his mouth, confused, "What? Did we crash or something?"
"Yes! Right into ... an Earth Kingdom ship!" Zuko exclaimed.
OK! I know I shouldn't do this, but they were digging their own graves. I took Zuko's arm in a loving way, "Yes, I've never seen such a display of courage and honor. When they crashed into the ship, Prince Zuko discovered that I was being held captive and rescued me."
When Zhao looked at me creeper vibes crawled down my spine.
He took my hand and bowed, "Really? You must regale me with all of the thrilling details." Smirking he held my hand between his gently. After quickly throwing Zuko a derisive look, he turned back to me. "Join me for a drink?"
I smiled and bowed my head, "You are too kind, Commander."
Zuko pulled my hand away from Zhao and moved between us, "Sorry, but we have to go. We promised to replace her lost things. We don't have time for drinks with you, Zhao." He turned and began to lead me away, but Iroh put his hand on Zuko's shoulder.
"Prince Zuko, show Commander Zhao your respect." Iroh removed his hand from Zuko's shoulder as he turned to Zhao, "We would be honored to join you. Do you have any ginseng tea? It's my favorite."
Zuko grunted in anger upon hearing Iroh's tea comment and small flames of annoyance flared from him. He abruptly turned and walked away pulling me with him. "I guess, you and Uncle's shopping will have to wait."
I just smiled, still holding his arm, "Its ok, your uncle loves his tea. And by the way, my dear Zuko, you're the terrible liar."
He grinned, "I didn't have enough time to prepare. Thank you for the help. You're right, you're a great liar."
"Shhh... Zhao will hear you, and you had plenty of time. I warned you that you would run into him remember?"
"Oh right," He sighed. "So you really do know a thing or two."
"Or three, or four. Besides we're passing a lot of merchant stands, I can browse as we walk. And since you are my big, strong escort, you can wait with me. I know it's not the funnest thing in the world, but it will put off being alone with Zhao for a short while."
"You do have a point. So, where do you want to shop first?"
I just smiled up at him before looking behind us where Zhao and Uncle Iroh were talking. I don't think Iroh will mind if I listen in.
"It looks as though Prince Zuko has been enjoying his two years away from home," Zhao said smugly.
"What?" Iroh turned and looked at Zuko and I standing together at the shoe merchant stand. He was happy to see I was still holding Zuko's arm. "She's a lovely young woman. We only met her a few days ago, but she has this effect on everyone around her. I think she will be a good influence on my nephew."
"So, Prince Zuko, has found himself a budding romance?"
"I'm not sure, only time will tell." Iroh turned back to Zhao.
"What is the young lady's name?" Zhao questioned.
"Oh, no!" I tensed up.
"What is it?" Zuko looked down at me.
"I need a name; Zhao just asked Uncle Iroh my name. If he tells Zhao my name is Felicity, Zhao will know I'm not from the Fire Nation." I looked over at Iroh, "I don't know any Fire Nation names, what do I do."
"Maili," Iroh smiled. Oh, thank god!
"Maili?" Zhao repeated loud enough for us to hear. He must have tested Iroh.
"Yes?" I turned to the two men. 'Thank you, Iroh! I was starting to worry.'
"It's nothing, my dear. You two go find Maili some nice, new things," He waved at us.
"Very fitting that her name means beautiful." I could feel Zhao's eyes on me. I didn't like it at all. "How is Prince Zuko going to return her to her home if he is still banished?"
"With any luck he won't be banished for much longer," Iroh didn't think before he spoke, but it was too late.
Zhao just smiled, "Really? Well don't you think it would be best if she came along with me? I could have her back in the fire nation with her family by the end of the week. Of course, I will inform the Fire Lord and the girl's family that Prince Zuko was her rescuer."
"You will have to ask her what she wishes to do. She is not the kind of woman who likes others to make choices for her" Iroh watched as I pulled Zuko into a clothing shop.
"Oh really, tell me more about Ms. Maili," Zhao led Iroh towards the shop.
"I can't believe you're making me wait here while you try on clothes," Zuko huffed.
"Well, Zuko, if you want, you can go see what your uncle and Commander Zhao are up too."
That wasn't going to happen. He sat down and waited while the two old shop ladies gave me a once over. "What beautiful hair you have!" One flipped my hair over my shoulder.
"Yes, and those eyes, " Woman #2 held my chin. "You are a very lucky man to have such a beautiful young woman on your arm."
"She's not..."
"Thank you. If you two would be so very kind, I lost all my things when I was kidnapped. My rescuer here is helping me replace them." I nodded at Zuko.
"Really now, never mind. You are the lucky one," The woman #1 who was looking at my hair started taking my measurements.
"We have many new, beautiful styles you are welcome to try on." Woman #2 walked over and opened a wardrobe of red, black, and gold silk clothing.
I was trying on a black, cap sleeve, mandarin collar dress with red and gold, floral terming and knee-high fire nation style boots, when Iroh and Zhao walked in. Zuko gave Woman #1 the money for the dress and boots.
"Thank you," I smiled at him and moved to give him a hug.
"Well, don't you look lovely," Zhao exclaimed surprising both me and Zuko. Thanks a lot, Zhao!
"Oh, thank you," I bowed. "Ladies do you have anything that would be good for training or exercise? I'm going to something for my bending training with the General."
"Are you a firebender?" Zhao said stepping past Zuko, who had stood up to block me from sight.
"Maili is very talented. I've never seen anything like it." Iroh nodded.
"Really now, well then you will have to give me a display of your talents one day, won't you?" Zhao step into my space. Really, did I say you could come into my bubble, Mr. Creeperton?
"I don't know if that's a good idea, you see I still don't know my own strength." I turned to Woman #1 who had brought over a few different types of training suits. I did my best to ignore Zhao, but he was looking over my shoulder. I glanced at Zuko in the corner of my eye and smirked.
I took several slow deep breaths, feeling heat start to grow and coil in the air around me, like the air around an open flame. A song popped in my head (Eyes on fire - Blue Foundation), I sang the words in my mind, hearing the tune and feeling the beat.
'Eyes on fire,
your spine is a blaze.
Failing any foe with my gaze.
And just in time, in the right place.
Steadily emerging with grace.'
I was really sorry for scaring the two nice old ladies, but the look on Zhao's face was priceless. My shoulders, arms, and back were covered in an intensely heated flame that didn't burn me or the clothes I was wearing. It was like I was wearing the flames as if they were a cloak. I looked over my shoulder at him and I knew my eyes held flames. Zhao jumped back, and as I turned I saw the satisfied grin on Zuko's face.
I wasn't expecting what happened next, Zhao started clapping, "Amazing, Prince Zuko, you were right. She truly is unlike anything I've ever seen. She wears the flames as a second skin, controlling them perfectly. She even puts your esteemed sister to shame."
"He tried to warn you," Zuko smirked.
"Warn me? That was the most beautiful fire bending I have ever seen!" Zhao turned to the two woman who owned the shop, "I want everything sent to this lady's ship. I will pay for it personally." Then he turned to me, and took my hands, "You will never want for anything, my dear. Please allow me to escort you home to your family. I must meet the parents of such an exquisite young woman and fire bender."
I slid my hands away, "Thank you, you are too kind, but there is no need. I already have a capable escort and General Iroh is instructing me in fire bending." I turned to the ladies, "I'm truly sorry for firebending in your shop, if there are any damages..."
Woman #2 stopped me, "It's all yours now, my dear girl."
"Because of you we can retire!" Woman #1 started laughing and they both laughed together.
"Oh, well, good then. It's not my ship, its Prince Zuko's." I nodded over at him.
Woman #1 elbowed Woman #2 gently, "Our dear girl has caught the eye of the Crown Prince? I think we may be responsible for dressing our future queen."
Zuko blushed...hard! I just giggled. "Thank you again."
Zhao, however, didn't look very happy. "Well, now that you're shopping is done, How about that drink?"
Woman #2 gave him a scornful look, "Don't you think you are a bit too old for her, young man?" I covered my month so as not to laugh, but Iroh and Zuko didn't hold back.
"Hurry and have everything prepared for the Lady before I change my mind, you old hags."
"Now, now, Commander, I actually do have a request to make of you if you are up for it?" I took his arm to draw his rage away from the two old ladies. I waved goodbye to them with a smile. As I walked pasted Zuko, I reached out and touched his arm. 'This was a lot more fun when I was holding your arm. He smells strange.'
He just smiled then turned to the old ladies, "Thank you for helping her. I'll have the funds ready upon delivery."
Woman #1 bowed, "It was our pleasure, my prince, but the Commander is paying for everything."
Zhao and I had already walked out so I didn't hear the rest of their conversation. "Well, Commander, There are a few things that I haven't been able to find since I left home."
"And what might those things be, my dear? And by the way, you look stunning in that dress."
Could he be more of a creeper? I'm 18 and he's what 40 or 50? "Thank you, Prince Zuko, picked it out for me."
"Oh, well, what items would you like ME to find for you?"
"They are ingredients. I need finely ground cinnamon and black pepper, black tea, and fresh milk. Iroh has been so kind to me so I wanted to make him this tea. It's one of my favorite drinks. It's different from most teas because you add all the ingredients together. It's called a Chai Latte."
"Of course, I'll have all the items sent along with your things." he led me to his base of operations tent. As we waited outside for Zuko and Iroh to catch up, he gave a man the orders to find what I had asked for.
When Zuko reached me, he gave me a jacket that matched my dress, "It gets colder at night, and you may need this."
I nodded, "Thank you." 'Remember what I said; don't let your guard down. He's a snake. He's going to pull something. Be ready!'
When we went inside the tea was being served. Zhao and Zuko started talking about the Fire Lord's war plans. I tuned most of it out until I heard something that sounded familiar.
"... And by the year's end, the Earth Kingdom capital will be under our rule. The Fire Lord will finally claim victory in this war." Zhao walked over to take the empty seat next to Zuko.
"If my father thinks the rest of the world will follow him willingly, then he is a fool!" Zuko didn't seem too happy about the plans either.
Zhao just smirked, "Two years at sea have done little to temper your tongue. So, how is your search for the Avatar going?"
There was a loud clang behind them as Iroh knocked over a weapon display. The weapons came crashing down in a rain of noise. The general cowered from the noise and the damage it wrecked. Zhao turned around looking annoyed. "Eh.. My fault, entirely." Iroh said as he placed his hands in his sleeves backing away with a faint smile on his face.
I just smiled at him, Crafty old joker.
"We haven't found him yet," Zuko said calmly.
"Did you really expect to? The Avatar died a hundred years ago." Zhao studied Zuko closely, "Along with the rest of the airbenders." Zhao's face displayed the most evil expression I've ever seen. "Unless you have found some evidence that the Avatar is alive?"
Zuko didn't hesitate, but said in a very calm voice, "No, nothing."
'He knows you're lying.' I knew Zuko could hear me when his eyes quickly darted towards me.
"Prince Zuko, the Avatar is the only one who can stop the Fire Nation from winning this war." He leaned in towards Zuko, "If you have an ounce of loyalty left, you'll tell me what you've found."
'We have to get out of here; he's going to interrogating your men.' I said to Zuko in his head again.
"I haven't found anything," Zuko continued in a softer tone, slightly mocking the Commander. "It's like you said. The Avatar probably died a long time ago." Just then he stood up and offered me his arm, "Come on, Uncle, we're going."
As Zuko and I approached the door, the guards stopped us from leaving by crossing their spears while a third soldier entered the room. "Commander Zhao, we interrogated the crew as you instructed. They confirmed Prince Zuko had the Avatar in custody, but let him escape."
Zhao smiled evilly at the two of us, "Now remind me," Zhao said as he moved closer to lean in and speak into Zuko's ear. "How, exactly, was your ship damaged?" Zhao gestured for Zuko to sit back down, as he read the reports from the interrogations.
Uncle Iroh also sat down in the empty chair. I stood beside him with my hand on his shoulder 'Zuko is going to lose his temper, but don't worry he's going to win.'
'You don't mean an Agni Kai?' he asked
I just nodded.
Zhao was pacing as he read the reports, "So a twelve-year-old boy bested you and your firebenders." Zhao finally stopped pacing. "You're more pathetic than I thought."
"I underestimated him once, but it will not happen again!"
"No it will not. Because you won't have a second chance." He said over his shoulder. He wouldn't even turn to look Zuko in the eye.
Zuko was shocked, this was the order given to him by his father, he couldn't let Zhao stop him, "Commander Zhao, I've been hunting the Avatar for two years and I..."
Zhao angrily turned around, interrupting Zuko and sending flames out in an arc. "And you failed! Capturing the Avatar is too important to leave in a teenager's hands. He's mine now."
Zuko jumped up but before he could reach Zhao, however, he was held back by the two guards standing behind him.
"Keep them here." Zhao ordered as he left.
Zuko was so angry he was panting. Enraged, he kicked the table in front of Iroh, breaking it clean in two, sending the objects that were on it flying through the room.
Iroh calmly with a hint of amusement in his voice, asked, "More tea, please."
I wasn't going to just stand there. I headed to leave but one of the guards grabbed my shoulder, "I wouldn't have done that if I were you. Ask your prince here he'll tell you. I hate being man-handled." I said to him as I turned. I placed my hand on his chest and smiled sweetly before flexing my palm and fingers. The vibrations that pulsed through my hand sounded like the heavy bass from a song. The solider flew backwards and I ran out after Zhao.
"Commander, Commander wait please." Zhao was talking to two other ranking officers. Before I got to him, another guard tried to stop me, how many times do I have to go through this? I did the same thing to this guard but not as hard. OK I'm getting the hang of this.
Zhao's eyes widen, "How did you?"
"You can't do this, Commander, please. I understand the Avatar is a great price, but Zuko... Prince Zuko, has everything to lose if you don't let him do this."
"How did you just do that?" He didn't seem to be even listening to me. He just stared back at the solider I had just sent flying.
"I don't really know, but please hear me out."
"I'll make a deal with you, my dear. Come with me and I will help Prince Zuko in any way I can to find the Avatar. Better yet, if you marry me, I'll stay out of his way completely." He gave me a creeper smile and reached for my hands.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, marry you? I'm 18 years old." I jerked out of his reach.
"I don't see the problem, you are of marrying age, and you're beautiful and powerful. I am a powerful military figure and a firebending master. Just think how unbelievably strong our children would be."
OK, I'm gonna to throw up, I'm really gonna to throw up, "Children! No! You know what? Forget it. Zuko will make it through whatever you throw at him, I know it" I turned to go back to the tent.
He grabbed me arm and pulled me towards him, "You must be quite taken with our Prince Zuko. It's too bad he's a shameful, honor-less, coward that was ban..."
"I know exactly who he is and all about his past. You see Zhao I am more than what you think I am." I snatched my arm away from his grip, "There is nothing that you can say that will change what I think of you or of Zuko. I know you're fate Zhao and let me tell you, it's not pretty. In fact you might say it's watery. And if I were you, I would never touch me again." The heat coiled around me again until flames sparked on my skin. It heated the ground and burned the grass around me. He backed away quickly "I'm not some doll or dainty little girl you can scare. I am fire!" I turned away and the flames puffed out. With any luck he was in need of a new pair of pants right know. Hey, I just made fire without my music, sweet!
I walked inside, Zuko looked up at me. I could see he was disappointed, but I just smiled. I knew he could handle this. I went and stood beside Uncle Iroh again. He and I drank tea together while the rest of the tent was silent.
It wasn't too long before Zhao returned. He pushed the fabric aside that served as tent doors and entered. "My search party is ready. Once I'm out to sea, my guards will escort you back to your ship and you'll be free to go."
Zuko wasn't happy, "Why? Are you worried I'm going to try to stop you?"
The Commander laughed out loud and said, "You? Stop me? Impossible."
"Don't underestimate me, Zhao! I will capture the Avatar before you!"
Iroh stood up, "Prince Zuko, that's enough."
Zhao glanced over at me for a second, and then looked back at Zuko, "You can't compete with me. I have hundreds of war ships under my command and you? You're just a banished prince. No home, no allies. Your own father doesn't even want you."
"You're wrong! Once I deliver the Avatar to my father he will welcome me home with honor, and restore my rightful place on the throne!"
"If your father really wanted you home, he would have let you return by now, Avatar or no Avatar. But in his eyes you are a failure and a disgrace to the Fire Nation." Zhao smirked confidently.
'This isn't good' Iroh thought.
'Don't worry, Uncle Iroh. I promise you it will be fine. Zuko will win and Zhao will eat his words.'
"That's not true." Zuko exclaimed.
"You have the scar to prove it."
With a cry of frustration, Zuko jolted up out of his chair and into Zhao's face, "Maybe you'd like one to match!"
Mockingly Zhao asked, "Is that a challenge?"
"An Agni Kai. At sunset."
"Very well. It's a shame your father won't be here to watch me humiliate you," He turned away from Zuko then stated over his shoulder, "I guess your uncle will do." Then left the tent.
No matter what I said I knew Iroh was still worried, "Prince Zuko, have you forgotten what happened last time you dueled a master?"
"I will never forget."
I hadn't said anything the whole time "I'm sorry I couldn't be of more help."
Zuko turned and looked at me, "What do you mean?"
"Zhao," Just the thought of repeating it made me gag, "made me a proposal."
"What kind of proposal?"
"Really, Zuko?" I tilted my head to the side, "What kind of proposal do you think? If I stayed with him and," Gag! "Married him, he wouldn't stay out of your way."
"How dishonorable! Trying to use a young woman," Iroh gasped.
"I couldn't do it," I looked away, "I'm sorry, I know it's selfish but..."
"No! I'm glad you didn't agree." He took a deep breath then turned to his Uncle, "Sunset, it isn't too long away. Let's get something to eat while we can."
"Good idea! Are you hungry, Felicity?" Uncle Iroh offered me his arm.
"Yes, sir." I smiled as we left the tent and walked to the ship to eat.
SUNSET
I stood beside Iroh staring down at Zuko. I had to fight the fangirl inside me. Dang he's got a great body! I didn't see him much after dinner. He retired to his room after we ate to prepare for the Agni Kai.
"Remember your firebending basics, Prince Zuko. They are your greatest weapons." Iroh gave him one last piece on advice.
Zuko looked so determined, "I refuse to let him win."
"He won't win, I know he won't." I nodded at him and his face softened.
He turned, the scarf fell from his shoulders, and he prepared to take his stance.
"This will be over quickly," Zhao smirked.
'Yes, it will.' I could hear Zuko thinking.
'I know you will win, fussy pants. I can promise you that.'
A Fire Nation soldier standing on higher ground saw that they were ready and rung a large gong to signal the start of the fight. Zuko and Zhao stood in the middle of the arena, both taking their firebending stances. Zuko, who had his hands stretched out in front of him, glared at Zhao. Zhao matched Zuko's stare with one of his own.
Zuko lowered his arms leaving a trail of fire behind then directed a series of strong fire blast right at Zhao. Zhao moved left than right avoiding every blast.
The prince shot two more blast at Zhao. This time Zhao crossed his arms in front of him and took the blasts head on. Quickly slicing one arm up and the other down he dissipated the flames as they reached him. He smirked at Zuko, who was now panting heavily with his arm still extended out from his last attack. Zuko angrily ground his teeth and performed a roundhouse kick, spraying flames toward the Commander.
Zhao created his own flames to pushed away Zuko's blazing attack. Zuko then kicked a powerful blast in Zhao's direction. Smirking, Zhao held his own fire ready. He launched forward swinging his arms and severing Zuko's attack. Zhao seemed unfazed while Zuko was panting heavily with fatigue.
Iroh, held a fist up rooting for his nephew, "Basics Zuko! Break his root!"
'Don't stop, Zuko. Please don't give up.'
Zhao ferociously attacked Zuko with a fire blast. Zuko was thrown back a bit by the force of the attack but diverted the flames to either side. Zhao took a step forward directing a powerful blast at Zuko with both arms. Again Zuko was thrown back but he still managed to divert the fire away. Zhao took yet another step forward and quickly fired again with the same result on Zuko. Firmly planting his foot and bringing both wrists together Zhao fired a searing blast.
Zuko was thrown back upon impact and slid several meters across the ground. He lifted his head grunting in pain. His expression turned to shock as he looked up to see that Zhao had jumped and was soaring through the air toward him. With a loud scream, Zhao landed at Zuko's feet thrusting his fist forward to deliver the final blow.
"No!" I screamed.
Zuko's eyes opened wide in fright, but at the last possible second, Zuko rolled out of the way and swung his feet around swiping Zhao's legs from underneath him. Zuko's feet were now firmly planted on the ground.
He smiled confidently, and stepped forward directing fire at Zhao's feet. Zhao was caught off-balance and wobbled backward. Zuko repeated his move, directing his attacks at Zhao's feet attempting to throw him off-balance.
Iroh, smiled approvingly as he watched Zhao fall backwards.
Zuko directed a powerful kick at the commander who was barely able to move out of the way staggering back ever further. Zuko kicked again and this time he succeeded in knocking the commander over. Zhao fell and rolled where he ended on his back. Zuko ran to him threatening him with his outstretched arm, ready to deliver the final blow.
Zhao looked up at Zuko. "Do it!"
Zuko grunted and thrust his fist forward, emitting one last fire blast, but he wasn't aiming for Zhao.
"What's this? Your father raised a coward!"
"Next time you get in my way, I promise, I won't hold back." Zuko warned Zhao before turning away to leave.
Zhao stood up with his back to Zuko, but suddenly turned aiming a powerful kick of flames at Zuko.
'Zuko, behind you!'
Before Zuko noticed, Iroh intervened and grabbed Zhao's foot, dissipating the fire. Iroh tossed Zhao back and the commander slid away on his back. Zuko charged at Zhao in anger, but Iroh stopped him.
"No, Prince Zuko. Do not taint your victory." Iroh then turned to Zhao, "So this is how the great Commander Zhao acts in defeat? Disgraceful. Even in exile, my nephew is more honorable than you. Thanks again for the tea. It was delicious."
I couldn't help myself, I ran to Zuko and wrapped my arms around his neck, "See, I told you, you would win. Nothing to worry about." I took a deep breath then a huge sigh of relief. I knew he was going to be fine, but watching the cartoon and seeing it first hand are two completely different things. I'm lucky to still have fingernails.
Jeez, he was hot, and I mean temperature wise. I mean yeah he's hot, but I'm waiting for the hair to grow out. Seriously though, his skin was way hotter than anyone I had ever touched before. He smelled good though, like smoke and spice and straight up man.
"Thank you," he hugged me to him, then quickly let me go. Iroh was grinning but didn't say a word.
"Did you really mean that, Uncle?" Zuko asked softly, as we made our way back to the ship.
"Of course. I told you, ginseng tea is my favorite." Iroh replied slyly.
A FEW DAYS AFTER THE AGNI KAI
Zuko was meditating in his room, on the table in front of him sat a line of candles. As he breathed the flames grew and shrank. I stood behind him moving through my tai chi forms. He didn't mind being around me so much lately, at least not since the Agni Kai. He also liked the relaxed flow of music that he could hear when I did tai chi, especially while we were meditating. We had been out at sea for a few days with no sign of Aang, so I did my best to keep his hot head from exploding.
Just then Uncle Iroh opened the door. This is going to be interesting.
"The only reason you should be interrupting me, is if you have news about the Avatar." Zuko stated calmly.
"Well, there is news, Prince Zuko, but you might not like it. Don't get too upset."
Still calm and motionless in his meditation Zuko exhaled then said, "Uncle, you taught me that keeping a level head is a sign of a great leader. Now, whatever you have to say, I'm sure I can take it."
"Okay then," Iroh was hesitant, and for good reason. "We have no idea where he is."
The flames of the candles suddenly erupted in a fiery mass, brushing the ceiling from Zuko rage, "What!?"
I tried to internalize my laugh as Iroh pulled out a fan, "You really should open a window in here."
"Give me the map!" Zuko snatched the scroll from Iroh's hand. Unrolling it, he scanned the map.
"Well, there have been multiple sightings of the Avatar, but he is impossible to track down."
"How am I going to find him, Uncle? He is clearly a master of evasive maneuvering."
"Oh, come on, Zuko. Now you just sound desperate." They both looked over at me as I went through my tai chi forms.
Zuko stormed over to me, "You know something, don't you?"
"Don't I always?" I smirked at him.
"Well, tell me! You said if you stayed here with me you would help me find the Avatar."
"Noooo! I said, dearest Zuko, If you let me stay I would help you reach your true destiny." I started to switch to my next form. As my hands crisscrossed in front of me, Zuko caught my hands and pulled me off-balance. "Really, Zuko, I only had six forms left. You couldn't have waited until the end?"
"Tell me what you know, Felicity!"
"Zuko, have I ever told you how much I love it when you say my name? Do it again."
"FELICITY!"
"Ahhh, so good."
Iroh started laughing as he left Zuko's room.
"Please give me something, anything. I need your help, Felicity," He asked softer and his grip on my wrists softened as well.
"Oh, Zuko, this is all so sudden," I stepped closer to him "I love it when a man is not afraid to beg. Do you swoon too?"
He growled in frustration and dropped my hands.
"Oh, calm down, fussy pants, you know I have to torture you. It's so much fun. Ok, I'll give you a little hint."
"Thank you, I'll take whatever you give me!"
"So you do swoon! Zuko, you really are the man of my dreams."
"Felicity, you can torture me as much as you want after you tell me what I need to know," He was really at the point of begging.
"Alright, but you better remember you said that."
"Yes, yes, now please!" he actually got down on his knees in front of me.
That's so hot! Stop, focus, Fili! "Alright, here it is my words of future-knowing wisdom." Pause for effect, "Make port."
He jumped up to his feet, "WHAT, that's it?"
"Yes, make port, somewhere anywhere. And when we dock, tell you're cook to go ashore to the fish market. You want fresh fish for dinner. Salmon, I like salmon."
"You have to be kidding me right now!" he started to storm off but I caught his arm.
"Zuko, so far how many times have I been wrong? I told you about Zhao, and that he would be a snake and do something tricky, and I told you that you would win in the Agni Kai. Just trust me and do it ok. You won't be disappointed, I promise."
He sighed then nodded, "Fine."
"Zuko," he turned and looked at me, "I'm waiting."
"Thank you." he growled.
"Oh and are you going to train with me today?"
"Yes, if there's time." He nodded then left to give the orders.
I was really getting better with my powers, Iroh and Zuko had been helping my with more firebender style moves. But they were crazy if they thought my lazy butt was going to do all those kicks and insanely awesome flip things that Zuko did during the Agni Kai. I really didn't wanna think about the Angi Kai, it was too close for comfort.
Why did Zuko have to stop me before I was done with my forms, it seriously messed with my Chi. I have no idea what that means, but I have always wanted to say it.
"Grrrr, Zuko!" I growled as I walked back to my room.
"What?"
"Jeeze Chreeze, where did you come from?"
He gave me a strange look then shook his head at me, 'Come on, Zuko! Like you're not used to my weirdness already.'
"I just gave the helmsman the orders."
"Oh cool, good." He doesn't know what cool means, Fili... I'll explain later.
"Well, it will be a few hours until we reach the nearest port. Would you like to train the basic forms again?" He took off his robe and threw it in his room. So many jokes about taking off his clothes, so little time.
"Sure, but I'm not..."
"Kicking, I know." He shook his head at me again.
"OK, good." I let him lead the way. "Really, Zuko, please tell me you're at least thinking about growing out your hair?"
"If I did would you torture me less?"
"Absolutely not," I mean really, Zuko, this is me we're talking about, "more in fact. Just think of what I could do with that. I mean really, I would just want to play with your hair then. Run my fingers through it and all that jazz."
"Then why on earth would I grow it out?" Did he actually just give me the 'Really' face? I'm so proud.
"Because, you're already handsome now. Just think of how much more handsome you would be." I smiled at him as we reached the deck.
"You think I'm... but my," he reached up and touched his scar.
I just smiled and nodded, "Yes, scar and all. I wouldn't change one thing about you, fussy pants. OK," I clapped my hands together, "so let's do these forms!" I ran over a few feet away from him and took my starting stance.
'It can't be. She's just saying that to torture me again.' "Remember, your breathing." he said out loud. 'There's no way, could she really mean it? That's really what she thinks about me?'
"Yes, I do mean it." I smiled and nodded to him.
"Stay out of my head!" he growled at me.
'Never.'