Published February 7, 2012
By now Katara was used to discreetly making her way into and out of the prison. She almost felt confident – until she saw the shadow of someone coming from around the bend, in her direction.
Katara gasped and backed away, ducking behind the bend. The approaching figure had already heard her. But he didn't come upon her.
"Who's there?" the figure demanded.
Katara tried to sound assertive. "Show yourself."
"You first," the stranger growled.
Katara frowned. Did this person have something to hide, too? What if someone had been plotting with Ozai or another prisoner?
She heard a sound like scraping metal – swords being unsheathed. At this, she uncorked her canteen and bended the water out, ready to fight if necessary.
They turned to face each other at the same time, water and dual swords poised to attack. Then her opponent froze, getting a good look at her. "Katara?"
She staggered, hearing the familiar voice. "Zuko?"
He pulled back his hood, and the torchlight illuminated her friend's face.
"You've been visiting him?" they exclaimed at the same time.
They stared at each other with mutual incredulity.
"I guess we're even, then," Katara said.
"I guess so," Zuko said coolly.
There was an awkward pause. Zuko sheathed his swords, while Katara bended the water back into her canteen.
"You know it doesn't mean anything –" Zuko started.
"Of course not," Katara said quickly. "Nor for me."
"I won't tell if you don't," Zuko said.
Katara nodded. "… I guess I'll go."
"Right. I'll see you later?" Zuko gave her a halfhearted wave, heading for his father's cell.
Katara wondered what else she didn't know about Ozai and Zuko. Father and son were full of secrets.
Author's Note: I posted a new poll on my profile. Check it out!