A/N: Did you guys like…die or something? D: was my last chapter bad or something? Please, I'd really like to know if I should keep going..I'm getting a lot of readers but not many reviewers and I'd totally love the feedback… I'm feeling a little discouraged, but I really want to go on cause I really like where my story is headed x) but I won't keep going if no one reads…and this chapter is huge! I made it big cause I thought it hold you guys over for awhile…I'm going to be out of town and iono if I'm going to be able to update as quick as I thought…but, please R&R!!! I'd –really- appreciate it…like a whole bunch, I love the feedback …
Anyways…
:o Uh oh… I'm warning you guys, this chapter is huge !!! Hahaha! Sorry for those of you who hate long chapters but…who would hate long chapters? Like honestly, lol… This should keep you guys satisfied for awhile…Or at least I hope so lol. This chapter has about…wait…lemme see…HA. 12,244 some odd words!!!...Read up, folks o.o … Okay okay okay, so I added some Kataang fluff at the end of this one.. .. . ..Ohkay…I added a lot…Or at least enough… Erm wait… o.o
Dah, just read and find out xD
Book Two – Water and Air
Chapter Fourteen - Rebirth
"Aang?" Katara uttered for the fourth time, hoping to get the young monks' attention. Finally, after about ten minutes, Aang took his watering eyes away from the woman statue before him. His gentle gaze fell onto the cheetah sitting calmly next to him. Thoughts instantly began to fly through his mind.
"We will meet again, Aang…I promise."
"You need to find true love."
"…Listen to your heart…"
It was then that it immediately hit Aang like a two ton boulder. He quickly knelt next to Katara and embraced her in a huge hug, yet again. He held onto her tightly around her furry shoulders as he buried his nose into her silk like cheetah coat. He could immediately feel tears sting his eyes as everything, his thoughts, his past, his long lost friend, caught up with him.
"It's you," He muttered softly as tears trickled down his cheeks. Katara grew confused as she sat in his tight embrace, she pressed herself closer to him, loving thee warmth of his arms and chest.
"Yeah, Aang it's me…Katara," Katara said ever so softly in the young monks ear, she shifted slightly and rested her head on his shoulder, "Aang, what's going on? What's the matter?"
Aang didn't speak. The two continued to hold each other close in a calm silence of the afternoon setting they were in. The sun shone through the autumn leaves gently, signaling it was somewhat close to nightfall, but neither of them minded it. They knew their way back to Sokka and everyone.
The air slowly began to grow thick between the two lovers and Katara was starting to get a little worried. She, being ever so confused as to what was going on, gently removed herself from Aang.
"Aang," She started, " Please, what's going on? Do…Do you know who this is?"Katara questioned, pointing to the statue of the woman next to the two. Aang slowly nodded and sat down, Indian style before Katara.
"It's you," He said softly as he looked into Katara's eyes. Katara cocked her head and quickly stole a glance at the woman before her. It looked nothing like her.
"Th-that's not me, I don't have an arrow on my foreh-"
"That's your past life, Katara," Aang said softly with a smile. Katara grew silent as she quickly looked up at the statue, Aang continued, "That's Vyntresser Aditya,"
"But…How do you know her, Aang?" Katara questioned.
"She was my caretaker… I loved her like a mother…"Aang said softly, he then sighed and looked down, feeling his face heat up before he continued, "No wonder I loved you the moment I saw you…I guess I always knew that you'd come back…Just like you promised,"
"Aang, I don't remember any of that, when did I promise you that I'd come back? I-I...I mean, I don't remember any other lives I've lived except for this one…" Katara mumbled.
"It was you…Even though you were in a different life, with different people and a totally different name, it was you… You were in love with the Avatar before me," Aang mentioned.
"Roku?" Katara questioned with a somewhat disgruntled look on her face, she then shook her head and giggled, "That's odd,"
"Yeah…I think I was too little to understand everything…and I don't remember what else happened…" Aang sighed softly, he then shook his head and held it in his hands, "Gosh, I wish it would come back to me…"
"M-maybe a good nights rest will help, Aang…Today's been a big day," Katara mentioned softly as she stood up and stepped closer to the young monk, "For all of us,"
"Yeah," Aang mumbled as he slowly pushed himself up to his feet.
The two slowly began to head towards camp in a slow manner. Katara slowly glanced over her shoulder and stared at the woman statue the two were now walking away from. She felt a certain spirit in the area, as if she knew all along that that statue she was looking at was actually herself. Katara felt her heart jump slightly at the strangeness of it all. She quickly forced her eyes away for a quick moment. The two quickly grew farther and farther from the statue, that is until they could see it anymore.
Aang and Katara were silent the whole way back to camp. Katara didn't know what to say, knowing Aang as a little boy in a past life weirded her out to the highest extent, and Aang coming face to face with the woman he loved 100 years ago made their whole relationship seem to come to life more and more, brighten up almost, as if two lovers over the years had finally met again, rekindling a flame that was put out so long ago. Even though Aang didn't realize it at the time, it finally hit him that in one of hispast lives, he had fallen madly in love with Vyntresser Aditya. But when the Avatar cycle repeated itself, his love for Aditya fell from intimate to a mother-son type relationship, only to return to intimate when the Vyntresser cycle came anew.
After a good half an hour of walking through the bamboo forest in a calm, almost heart stopping silence between the two lovers, they had finally made it back to camp, only to see that it was nightfall and everyone, even Hinadi, was asleep. The two slowly headed over to Appa, who rested the night away, hoping sleep would ease his pain.
Aang, without saying anything to Katara, hopped onto Appa's saddle in order to get ready for bed.
Katara, on the other hand, stayed put. She stood just outside of the bamboo forest with a small, tired frown, although she wasn't sad. She heaved a soft sigh and looked up to the brilliant, star filled night sky. She smiled and let the cool, night river breeze comb itself through her gentle fur, cooling off her body from being in a hot, sticky bamboo forest for the day. Katara, after a few moments, figured she better go give Aang some company. She smiled and eagerly headed towards Appa, careful not to wake anyone. She treaded lightly, once near Appa, and gently leaped up onto Appa's saddle, using her soft paws to hoist her up.
Once on Appa's saddle, she noticed Aang, lying on his back with his arms and hands tucked behind his head. He gazed at the pretty stars with a little smile on his face. Katara's heart jumped slightly as she slowly strolled over to him. Once near, she sat down next to him for a moment, wondering what she should do next. Either give him his space for the night, or attempt to cuddle with him, wondering if this whole new thought process of theirs was demanding space or the need to be closer to each other.
Katara bit her bottom lip in concentration and she figured she'd just lie down next to him, wondering what he'd do. She gently made herself comfortable along side him; she stretched out slightly and laid her head down near his chest. She then heaved a soft sigh and closed her eyes. She let her mind wander through all that had happened today, wondering if it even happened in the first place. She laughed inwardly, thinking how strange her life was, and it was only getting even stranger by the second. Just before she was going to let her mind wander further, she felt Aang next to her shift a little bit.
Katara kept her eyes closed; figuring he was just readjusting his arms or something, but after a few seconds, she felt his warm hand laid gently a top her furry head. Katara quickly opened her eyes and looked at Aang, only to find that he was now lying close to her, on his side. He supported his head with his hand, in which his elbow was pressed to the soft fabric of Appa's saddle.
Katara lifted her head slightly and stared at Aang for a moment, he had a small smile on his face and his eyes gently glistened with the calm, starry night sky. He gently began to finger her fur, running his fingers through it slightly and twisting it a little. Katara smiled a big, happy, almost tired smile and gently laid her head down. She then instantly knew that Aang didn't want his space at all, all he wanted was to be with her. No matter what state she was in at this moment.
Katara instantly rolled onto her side slightly and scoot closer to Aang, she felt as if it was a little awkward, being in the cheetah form at the moment, but she felt as if neither of them cared. She pressed herself closer to Aang with a smile of bliss, she tucked her arms and paws close to her as she gently began to nuzzle her soft nose and face into Aang's upper chest and shoulder. She smiled as she felt Aang's arm slowly come around her furry shoulders and side for comfort.
Katara, after a little while, closed her eyes with a smile as she slowly began to feel Aang run his hand along her soft, furry side, almost along her spine. Katara smiled, loving the feeling of being pet. She always wondered why Momo and Kaimah loved to be pet so much, and now she understood why. Katara felt her face heat up, slightly, as Aang continued to run his hand along her side, almost in a methodic type of way. She loved the feeling, and it only caused herself to push closer to Aang.
Aang, on the other hand, felt as if his face couldn't get any hotter. He knew he was just petting Katara, and that she was in a different form at the moment, but he couldn't help but let his mind wander a little as he ran his hand down her soft, silky side. He blushed furiously, but remained calm. His heart beat faster and faster with every moment that went by with Katara by his side, cuddling closer to him.
As time went on, Aang could hear a low, almost soothing type of rhythmatic noise that could instantly lull him to sleep if he wasn't careful. He opened his eyes further and looked about slightly, wondering what was making the odd type of noise. He then looked down, noticing that the noise was coming from Katara, and within seconds, it hit him. She was fast asleep in his arms, purring the night away. Aang let out a soft chuckle with a smile as he laid his head close to hers.
After about a few minutes, Aang let his eyes drift shut as her soft, soothing purrs gently lulled him into a calming sleep. He dozed off after a few moments with a smile, he held Katara endearingly close to him, loving how her fur and body heat kept him warm during the cold, autumn night.
- - -
Katara slowly found herself aimlessly strolling about what looked to be an Air temple of some sort; she couldn't decipher which, though. With time, she slowly wandered down a long hallway. It was dark and gloomy outside and the scent of rain was present in the calm, cloudy night sky. Katara, in her mind, instantly knew this couldn't be a dream she was having. She felt as she were actually somewhere, her sight and memory not being fogged as it usually was in dreams she had. Her vision was perfect and she thought perfectly straight. She instantly grew confused, that is until she saw a woman.
She was wearing an Air bender cloak, that of orange and yellow, and she wore the ancient, brown prayer beads around her neck. She seemed distressed as she sat on the large, window sill like structure that looked over the whole temple, as well as the airball court. The woman hugged her knees close to herself as she buried her nose and chin into them. She shook her head slightly before shutting her eyes and letting her face meet her knees, which were still pulled close to her chest. Katara worried slightly as she wandered over.
Without saying anything, Katara stepped closer to the woman. She wondered what the matter was but before she could speak, the woman spoke for her.
"Good evening, Katara," She said softly, Katara jumped.
"…Sorry," Katara uttered as she stepped closer to the woman, "Do I know you?" the woman let out a soft laugh and let her feet dangle off the edge of the sill, she sighed softly and looked at Katara square in the eyes with a smile.
"You should," She chuckled, "I'm your past life,"
Katara marveled slightly as she stared at the woman. She had long, dark brown hair that waved down her back slightly, and instead of normal arrows an airbender would have, she had delicate swirls, almost, that trailed her arms, legs, feet and hands. She then had what looked to be a diamond shape on her forehead instead of a blocky arrow that Aang had. Katara beamed, knowing exactly what those markings meant. She was the Vyntresser before Katara.
"Wow," Katara uttered softly as she sat next to the woman, "Nice to meet you," she smiled.
"You too," the woman chuckled, "I'm Aditya…and I see that you've found Hinadi," she laughed.
"Well, more like Hinadi found me and…wait a minute, how did you know that Hinadi-"
"Katara…I'm with you all the time," She said softly as she adjusted herself slightly to look at the young waterbender before her, "In spirit…I know your thoughts, I know how you're feeling…I AM you, Katara," she said in a wise tone. Katara almost wanted to feel scared, but she controlled her thoughts for the moment.
The two were calm in a quiet silence for a moment, neither speaking, neither fearing. Katara looked out to the cloudy night horizon, wondering what everything meant. Oh the questions she had, she wanted answers immediately. She so desperately wanted to know how she connected with Aditya, and more importantly, how Aditya connected with Aang. She wanted to know it all, and she felt as if she'd stay in this spirit world all day just to know.
"…Why me?" Katara mumbled softly as she broke the silence, she looked up at Aditya with a small, almost confused frown.
"Who better?" Aditya smiled as she stared into Katara's brilliant eyes with a smile. Katara almost grew even further confused before Aditya re-adjusted herself, so she was facing Katara. Katara did the same, Aditya then spoke up with a smile, "Come, Katara…You have a lot to learn,"
Katara smiled eagerly as the two slowly stepped away from the sill they were sitting on. They then slowly moseyed down the long, what seemed to be never ending hall of the air temple they were in. It looked old and run down, looking as if humans hadn't lived here for hundreds of years, which in some cases were true. The two were silent for a little bit, Katara seemed uneasy and didn't speak for her sake. She didn't know what to do, what to say, how to feel. She just let her feet carry her down the long hall, next to her past life.
"When Roku died…" Aditya suddenly said, ever so softly as the two girls continued to walk, "I thought the world was completely over…I lost someone so close, and dear to me I…didn't know what to do." Katara spoke.
"It must've been hard," Katara said ever so softly, now able to feel her pain as the two striked up a conversation.
"It was…Some of the other monks here grew worried…I wouldn't speak to anyone, I mourned Roku's death for over three years," Aditya said softly, the two subconsciously let their feet slowly take them wherever.
"What did you do?" Katara questioned softly.
"Well," Aditya started as she heaved a soft sigh, "Gyatso, a good friend of mine, came to me after awhile, with a suggestion to get my mind off of Roku."
"What did he suggest?" Katara asked, feeling more eager than before.
"He suggested I adopt," Aditya smiled, Katara cocked her head slightly.
"Adopt? You mean, adopt a child?" Katara smiled, Aditya nodded.
"So I did, I went down the next day to pick out a baby to adopt…At the time I knew there were plenty babies in the adoption area…No one, at the time, wanted to take care of their very own child…Having a family with someone, as well as a relationship with someone was considered a sin," Aditya explained, Katara eagerly listened as they walked on. As time went on, it slowly began to rain, filling the air with a sweet, fresh scent.
"So, was it a boy or a girl?" Katara questioned with a smile, Aditya chuckled.
"A boy," She smiled, "His name's Aang." Katara fell silent as she fixed her gentle gaze on Aditya. She instantly felt as if her eagerness was growing and growing into something so uncontrollable. And with that, words couldn't even describe how she was feeling. She fell silent and patiently waited for Aditya to continue.
"I took Aang home… and boy was he a hand full," Aditya laughed, "Oh, but he kept me so much company and…In time I felt as if Roku's passing had become familiar to me, I felt as if he was now in a good place, and I needed to accept it and move on."
"So, you were okay with Roku's death and all?" Katara asked gently, Aditya nodded with a smile.
"Yeah, I was," She smiled, "And it wasn't until a little bit after I had Aang, about a year or two, that I noticed that he bore the ability to airbend." With this Katara smiled, Aditya continued, "He was always showing me new things, and mumbling things that I couldn't even understand…He gave me a whole different feeling…A feeling I absolutely loved, because I never had children…Oh how I always wanted children,"
"So, you mothered Aang, and treated him like your son," Katara smiled, Aditya nodded until she frowned gently.
"Everything was fine, until Gyatso and the other monks had him take a test when he was around four years old," Aditya said softly.
"A test?" Katara asked.
"They took him from me for a day or two, curious to find answers or something…Until a few days later, they came to and…And told me that Aang was the new Avatar," Aditya frowned. Katara remained silent for a moment before speaking up.
"Well, that's a good thing, isn't it? I mean… The cycle repeated itself, right?" Katara questioned.
"True, but what scared me the most was that Aang was Roku's new life…I was basically taking care of my past lover…My husband…only in the skin of an adorable little four year old Avatar monk," Aditya continued, "And…I knew in order for the Vyntresser to live on, the Avatar had to fall in love with someone, therefore handing over his or her powers to his or her love…"
"But Aang was just a baby then, he couldn't have fallen in love then, he was too young," Katara said softly.
"Yes, but…Oh, he was growing up so fast, and I knew I'd most likely be around during his teen years I…felt as if I had to stop myself from going on, I knew he wasn't the Roku I knew and loved, and Aang didn't remember me that way in the least…" Aditya said softly.
The two slowly came to a small door at the end of the long hallway and without thinking, Aditya opened the door and stepped in. Katara slowly followed, and wondered where they were, but she didn't ask questions. She followed her to the large, oval shaped window a little to the left of the door. They both looked out into the rainy night.
"What did you do?" Katara warily asked, Aditya frowned and looked down.
"I…" Aditya stumbled on words for a second or two; Katara could easily tell this was hard for. Aditya continued, "I…I killed myself." Katara sat in shock, now feeling an awful, teasing pain in the very depth of her stomach. As much as she didn't want Aditya to go any further for her own sake, she did.
"I-I went down to the river and – "Aditya broke off and covered her eyes with her hands. She softly began to sob. Katara instantly frowned and, without thinking, gently pulled Aditya into a warm hug. Aditya softly cried over Katara's shoulder. Katara didn't mind. She knew doing something that drastic must've been painfully hard for Aditya. Especially to leave Aang.
"You did the right thing," Katara said ever so softly after a few moments, "You saved a whole generation of the Vyntresser by your choices, you were selfish in the least way… You stuck with what you had to do," Katara said gently as Aditya pulled away from the young waterbender.
"You're plenty wise for your age, Katara," Aditya smiled as she gently wiped a tear away from her cheek.
"Thanks," Katara said bashfully as she looked down, "So…what happened to Aang?"
"Well…Since I knew this was for his own good, and for the good of up coming Vyntressers, I told him that I had to go…" Aditya frowned, "Oh, how he begged that I shouldn't…I loved him so much but…I knew that if I were to stop living, Aang would eventually fall in love and…Our cycles would continue, and we'd once again be able to be with each other."
"That's where I come in, huh," Katara smiled gently and looked out the large window, into the calmly falling rain.
"Exactly," Aditya smiled, "It was a hard road to get down but…It worked out, Aang found a…A wonderful, beautiful girl," Aditya smiled and held Katara's young hands in her elderly ones, "You remind me so much like myself when I was little, Katara…"
"I do?" Katara smiled, taking it as a compliment. Aditya nodded before the two were silent for a moment, hand in hand.
"Take care of Aang for me…" Aditya said softly, as her eyes slowly began to water, Katara nodded eagerly, she too feeling her eyes sting with on coming tears, "He needs your love now more than anything,"
"I promise," Katara smiled before Aditya let go of her hands and let her arm meet around Katara's shoulders. The two then slowly stepped out of the small room they were just in.
"Good," Aditya smiled as the two then headed back down the long hallway, "Tell Aang I say hi…Sadly, I can't visit him in this spirit world…I'm not an Avatar."
"Oh," Katara said softly before she smiled, "I'll pass it on…but something's been bothering me around camp, lately," Katara frowned, knowing that if Aang's past lives were up for giving advice, she knew that hers would be willing to do the same.
"It's Hinadi, isn't it," Aditya laughed, Katara quickly looked at her past life with a shocked look on her face.
"Yeah, it is," Katara said softly. Aditya shook her head.
"Don't worry about her, she can tell something's up…She knows that somehow, you're connected to me. She's just teasing you; she used to always tease me. She'd pull my hair when I wasn't looking, she'd take things out of my pockets, she'd even pluck the whiskers from my cheeks while I was in cheetah form," Aditya laughed, "The list goes on…She just wants to play,"
"I don't see why she has to be so harsh about it… I feel like she doesn't like me at all," Katara frowned, "I mean, she's the newest member of our group and already I feel like she hates me…Aang seemed to take a liking to her too," Katara sighed.
"That's because Aang grew very attached to Hinadi while I was taking care of him," Aditya smiled, "They did everything together, and for Hinadi to see Aang like this, after a hundred years past, I'm sure she's so excited…" Aditya said softly with a smile, Katara sighed and frowned.
"I also feel like I'm growing further and further from Aang with each day that I'm stuck like a cheetah…It drives me absolutely insane," Katara frowned.
"You won't be in that form for long," Aditya smiled as she let her arm fall from Katara's shoulder, she then gripped both of Katara's shoulders with her hands, causing her to face Aditya, "You just need to learn your lesson about not killing Earth bound animals, my dear," Aditya laughed, Katara sighed and looked away before Aditya frowned.
"I just did it to protect Aang…If Aang weren't unconscious that one time I would've never…I mean, I just wanted him to be safe and I…I was stuck between two forms…I panicked…" Katara mumbled as she looked down.
"I understand, Katara," Aditya smiled, "But what's done is done…It's in the past, and it won't be hard for you to get out of your cheetah form," Aditya smiled as Katara looked up with curiousness, "Trust me."
"Thanks, Aditya," Katara smiled, she nodded.
"Who knows, a calm walk around the market today might do you good," Aditya smiled.
"But…Where we are on the map, we're nowhere near a market," Katara frowned.
"Hmm. Well looks like you'll be doing a bit of wandering, huh," Aditya smiled, Katara shrugged and looked away with a small hint of a smile.
"Thanks…" Katara smiled, "You cleared up a lot of questions that I had,"
"It's what I'm here for," Aditya smiled as she gripped Katara's hands tighter, "If you ever have a problem, you know where to find me…I'm always with you, Katara." Katara smiled at her past life with a twinge of happiness in her heart, she nodded before Aditya pulled her into yet another loving hug.
The air around the two slowly began to fog in a calm matter, before distant sky birds could be heard, and the presence of sunshine shone down on Katara.
- - -
Katara blinked gently and opened her eyes. She instantly came face to face with none other than…Momo?
Katara instantly pulled her head away as Momo began to chatter in his little language, his ears perked slightly as Katara sat up with a small groan. She shifted her paws slightly and looked about. The calm, early morning set into her surroundings, the calm river babbled and glistened the gentle suns rays. The calm, night clouds lingered away with the presence of morning. All that was missing was Katara's traveling companions.
Katara sat up in search for Aang. She leaned over the edge of Appa's saddle and noticed Aang, rubbing the back of his head in a confused manner. He looked about the river and bamboo forest just before him. Katara quickly bounded off of Appa's saddle with a frown. She grew closer to him before Aang turned around, sensing her presence.
"Sokka and Hinadi are gone," Aang frowned. Katara quickly cocked her head slightly before she looked about with a frown.
Well, good morning to you too…
"Well uhm…Should we go look for them?" Katara questioned, before all at once, there came a loud, familiar neigh before Hinadi instantly bursted past the very tops of the bamboo stalks around them, her long, brilliant brown wings spread evenly over the morning sky. Along with Hinadi's neighs came Sokka, screaming away.
"HOW DO YOU STEER THIS THING?!" Sokka hollered as Hinadi came to an abrupt landing, close to the river. She landed a little too harsh, causing Sokka to dive forward and plummet straight into the river. Katara instantly let out a loud laugh as Hinadi pranced about, neighing and whatnot. Aang chuckled and rubbed the back of his head before Hinadi slowly trotted over to Aang and Katara.
She instantly began to nudge Aang's face and cheeks with her nose in a loving way, causing Aang to giggle slightly and pet her long snout. Katara instantly tensed as Hinadi came close to her, and just as Katara was about to go running, she felt Hinadi gently nuzzle her nose into Katara's furry chest and face. Katara, taken aback, smiled and gently rested her paw on Hinadi's nose. All was calm, until Sokka trudged up, shivering and dripping wet.
"Now you know how I feel, Sokka," Katara said with a small laugh.
"Yeah, yeah…"Sokka mumbled before he perked up slightly, "Guys, good news, there's a town just about ten minutes from here, and it's not just any town, it's a water tribe village! Most likely a branch off of the Southern main land," Sokka explained, Aang instantly became happy.
"This means there has to be healers there! We can cure Appa!"Aang smiled as he glanced at his sleeping bison across the way.
"Exactly, so…I figure since we can't get Appa off of the ground, I'll just have the healers come to us," Sokka smiled, he then pat Hinadi's back, "I'll take Hinadi back over there to see if the healers are on their way…I just came back to check on you guys,"
"Ahem, I'm a healer too, aren't I?" Katara frowned, getting slightly annoyed. Sokka chuckled.
"Not like that, you're not," Sokka laughed, Katara instantly frowned and looked about her body, only to realize that she was still in her cheetah form. Katara heaved a sharp sigh and let her ears droop. She felt ever so useless in this form. She couldn't waterbend, she couldn't heal, she couldn't walk on two legs, or hug and kiss the one she loved most.
This stinks worse than rotting penguin seal meat…
"Well, I'm off; I'll be back in a little bit with the healers, okay?" Sokka said in a boasting way as he quickly boarded Hinadi. She seemed a little uneasy about him on her back, but she cooperated. He gently kicked his heels into her sides and she let out a loud, almost hurt type of neigh before she all at once lunged forward and took to the skies, flapping her long brown wings.
Katara, in a quick moment, suddenly felt an adrenaline rush shoot through her legs. She felt angry and tense before she, all at once, darted forward, straight for the all too familiar bamboo forest.
"Two can play at this game," She called to Sokka in the skies as she ever so quickly began to basically chase Hinadi in the sky. She left Aang without thinking, how desperately she wished she could heal, make use of herself, but stuck in this dreaded cat form she was in, fighting wasn't worth it, but she felt as if she needed to run all of this anger off.
She felt as if there was a path basically leading her in a straight line, in order to follow Hinadi's shadow on the soft forest floor. She ran with the wind, there was a certain spirit in her heart that kept her going, she felt as if she had wings to fly; running this fast was never possible to her up until now. She felt as if that was one benefit of being stuck in this form. She soared with the wind, raced the Shirlakoi above her, the breeze in her face, it was all so tranquil that for a moment in time, she had immediately let go of any anger she held in her heart. That is until she bursted through the other end of the bamboo forest.
She instantly came crashing through smaller bushes and twigs scattered about as she came to a slow stop, noticing the small village, Sokka mentioned, not too far away. Katara panted softly as she then noticed Hinadi come to an abrupt stop with Sokka on her back. She landed and gently flapped her wings before her. Sokka quickly dismounted her and noticed Katara not too far away, panting slightly as the world caught up with her. He gradually approached.
"Katara, what are you doing?" He said nonchalantly as he stepped over to her, "I thought you were going to stay with Aang,"
"Yeah, well…" Katara took a deep cleansing breath and looked around with an angry look on her face, "I-I wanted to come, alright?"
"Fine," Sokka eyed his sister before he set out for the village just before the two, Hinadi and Katara quickly followed, "I'm going to go check on the healers, you're welcome to come,"
"Yes, I'm coming," Katara snapped, feeling a bit jealous of those healers at the moment. She shook her head slightly and fell into step with Hinadi. Hinadi gently nudged Katara's side, putting Katara on edge, "Don't touch me," Katara snapped, yet again. Hinadi perked up slightly, in a sad sort of manner, as if she could understand Katara.
"What's your issue?" Sokka chuckled as they entered the village.
"I don't have an issue, alright?" Katara said in a mono tone.
"Ohkay…" Sokka eyed her, yet again.
Girls…
The three finally came to a hut just on the outskirts of the village. They stepped into the large hut to see a group of maybe four or five healers, packing some things and getting ready to head out in search for Appa, who was in need of their healings. Katara rolled her eyes as she sat on her haunches, next to Hinadi.
Why do they have to be women of all things? Can't men heal too?
Katara could quickly feel her mood get sourer by the second, with every little thing that seemed to tick her off. She then looked at Sokka. He was talking to a woman about their situation and the group of healers seemed excited to be helping out the Avatar. Katara sighed, yet again, feeling as if she didn't even want to watch the healing of Appa. She'd rather do something else. Katara shook her head and stepped outside of the hut, Hinadi eagerly followed her.
Katara groaned softly as Hinadi walked next to her at a calm pace. She looked about the little village; it was peaceful and somewhat quiet. Villagers strolled about, getting their daily errands and shopping done before it was too hot in the day. Katara strolled, slowly, with Hinadi by her side. After a few minutes, she stopped and sat down gently, and Hinadi stopped too.
Katara sighed and looked down at the dirt she walked on. She could feel on coming tears approach, and those tears gently slid down her fury cheeks. She sniffled for a few seconds before she felt Hinadi gently press her nose to Katara's slightly wet cheek. Hinadi chuffed softly as Katara opened her eyes and stared at the beautiful creature before her. Katara frowned, but then smiled, knowing Hinadi was trying to cheer her up. She knew deep down that animals had feelings too, and could sense when another is sad or distressed. With this, Katara sighed softly and smiled.
"Thanks, Hinadi," Katara mumbled, knowing Hinadi didn't do much, but her very presence with her seemed to be just the thing. Another animal around was nice while she was trapped. She felt as if she had someone she could relate to. At that, Hinadi perked up, slightly and flicked her cat like brown ears about in the gentle noon breeze. Katara sighed with a small smile and stared up at the sky.
"What to do…" Katara muttered as she watched small sky birds dart about. Hinadi let out a small chirp before bucking her head up and down slightly.
"Who knows, a calm walk around the market today might do you good,"
Katara sighed softly as she repeated Aditya's words over and over. She then smiled and looked about, having a feeling that a calm walk around might put out this fire of anger in her heart. She took a deep breath of the air around her before setting out with a smile, her friend next to her the whole way. There were even times where she'd find herself talking to Hinadi, even though she knew the Shirlakoi wouldn't answer and most likely didn't understand.
After a little bit of strolling around, villagers would stop and marvel at Hinadi, knowing very well this was a creature that lived long ago, even though there were still a few more present today. But not many.
"This Shirlakoi is so tame," said a man of the age of around twenty or so, Katara cocked her head slightly and stared at Hinadi.
"You think? Actually, she's quite a handful to be honest…" Katara said before she stole a glance at the man before her. He stared at her with a shocked look on his face, Katara grew tense, "Everything alright?"
"You just spoke! B-but that's impossible, you're a cheetah," the man said as he pointed.
"I'm the Vyntresser, nice to meet you," Katara smiled as she held her paw out. The stranger instantly looked extra excited as he gently shook Katara's paw.
"Wow…First the Avatar, and now the Vyntresser…I think the world is finally starting to look a little brighter around here," the man smiled, Katara cocked her head in a bashful manner as she looked down.
Both went their separate ways and Katara and Hinadi slowly continued to stroll about the village. As time went on, Katara began to notice people pointing and marveling at the cheetah and Shirlakoi that wandered by, and in time, many people would gather for a little bit, around Katara and Hinadi, to ask questions. Katara loved the attention, but after awhile, it got a little annoying. She didn't like being the one of the spotlight most of the time. She only liked it for a little bit.
Katara sighed softly and slowly pushed past two elderly women, she was talking to, after they said their good-byes. Katara and Hinadi walked on, only to have some man scramble from out of an alley way just down the street. He ran as fast as he could over to Hinadi and Katara, panting and out of breath.
"Hey, you the Vyntresser?" the man gasped for air slightly. Katara nodded, feeling slightly annoyed.
"Yep," Katara bested a smile.
"Oh good I-I…I have a slight problem, and I know you'd be best for the job," the man smile eagerly as he pressed his hands together, in a begging sort of manner. Katara instantly frowned, but with eagerness.
"Oh?" Katara uttered as she perked up slightly, "Well, sure, how can I help?"
"Oh thank God," the man breathed as he quickly began to walk away, "It's just down this way, follow me,"
Katara smiled and quickly began to follow with Hinadi directly behind her. They walked down the alley way the man had come out of just seconds before, they then began to wind down longer alley ways and such until they came to an open grassland. Plenty of horses and other animals grazed about as they quickly stepped through the large field. The animals seemed to perk up at the site of Katara and Hinadi, but they didn't stop to look around. The man they were following seemed ever so eager to get to his destination; wherever that was.
"It's just through here," The man said softly as Katara and Hinadi slowly came to a few small stables. They wandered for a minute until they came to a large, tall stable made of sturdy wood and hay. The man quickly opened the large door, and the three stepped inside.
It was a little dark, but Katara's eyes adjusted quickly. It was a large, wide open stable, but over a little to the far corner lay an animal. It was on its side and breathing ever so heavily. Katara could sense there was something wrong, just by the way this animals' breathing rate was. The three stepped closer and closer, and Katara's ears perked slightly once she recognized what animal it was. It was the rare moniko horse. The very last of its kind and only a few roamed the earth today. They were a very endangered species, and Katara thought she'd never ever have the pleasure of actually getting this close to one.
Katara stared at the moniko horse as she let her eyes adjust; she wondered what the matter was. It then instantly hit her. Katara quickly averted her gaze to the horses' stomach, noting the large lump on its side. The moniko horse was in labor, and evidently something had gone wrong. Katara grit her teeth slightly as the man stepped over to the mare, he gently rested his hand on her large side.
"Her baby is breech," the man said sadly, "My family has left for a trip up North and I stayed here to watch all the animals…I didn't know her baby would come while I was alone…"
Katara held her breath as she quickly stepped closer; Hinadi did the same before the man spoke up again.
"I-I normally know what to do during this time, but I…I don't know how to birth a breech foal, sadly, I sure hope you know how to…" the man said with a desperate look in his eye, "She's…she's my best friend, I would hate for something to happen to her…" Katara quickly looked up at the man with a small smile. She then nodded and looked down at the mare, who was breathing hard and fast.
"Don't worry, sir," Katara said with a smile as she looked at him, "I know exactly what to do,"
"Y-you do?" the man asked, surprised, Katara nodded.
"I've helped many creatures and women, from where I'm from, give birth…As well as a woman not too long ago…" Katara said half to herself as she looked down.
"Thank you…Thank you so much I-I'll go get um…" the man pondered for a moment before he looked about in a quick manner. Katara laughed softly.
"Some wet rags would be nice," Katara giggled, the man nodded quickly and ran out of the stables. Katara sighed softly and looked down at the mare. She slowly stepped over to her large belly and placed one paw on her side. She frowned slightly before catching a glance of her eye. She then quickly stepped over to her in hopes of comforting her.
"Hey," Katara said ever so softly as she came close, "It's going to be okay now, you'll be fine," Katara said, almost to the point of a whisper.
"Help me," the moniko horse suddenly uttered, Katara's ears perked slightly as she leaned closer, "It hurts so bad…" she whimpered as she laid her head on the soft hay.
"I-I know it hurts," Katara spoke softly as she gently laid her paw on the horse's cheek, "But everything will be okay…" Katara smiled and stole a glance at Hinadi, who was also leaned close to the moniko horse, "I promise,"
- - -
"Any idea of where Katara is?" Sokka said loudly as the two watched the healers prepare their healing session for Appa. Aang shrugged with a small frown.
"I don't know…I think she's upset about all of this," Aang said softly as he waved his hand in front of him, motioning to the healers and Appa.
"What? She should be happy Appa is getting healed, that means we can-"
"No, don't you understand? She can't heal…She can't heal at a time where she would absolutely love to, everything that she knows has been stripped away from her, her bendings, her healings…" Aang stopped his trail of thoughts and let his hands fall by his sides, "me…"
"You?" Sokka laughed, "She was just with you, how come you think she's lost you?"
"You wouldn't understand," Aang said as he shook his head and slowly headed towards the healers. He was quickly stopped as Sokka grabbed his arm.
"Look Aang, I know you'll feel better if you just go out and look for Katara I mean…last time I saw her she was headed out of the hut the healers and I were in, she…probably took a stroll around town with Hinadi," Sokka said softly. Aang nodded and slowly headed for the bamboo forest, with Momo perched on his shoulder.
"I guess I'll be back later sometime," Aang called over his shoulder as Sokka waved and slowly headed over to the healers. Aang sighed softly and stepped into the lightly dense forest, Momo began to chatter in his little language, as usual. Aang set out to find Katara and Hinadi.
- - -
"C-come on, just a little more…" Katara said softly as she gently aided in helping the moniko mare give birth. She thought it'd be a lot harder with paws, but it served just as well. The only problem was that she didn't have any thumbs, but Katara worked around it.
The moniko horse basically screamed in pain, kicking her front legs slightly as she neighed in terror. Hinadi stayed with her, nuzzling her nose against her cheek and neck, what she did best. Katara felt as if she was doing a good job, but deep down, she had no clue what she was doing. She had never helped give birth to a breech baby before and this was completely new to her. But, once things got started, instinct seemed to set in, and Katara felt fine. No complications, really.
Just as Katara thought the poor mare was going to die from giving a breech birth, the baby was finally out, gently rested on the soft hay, whimpering and whatnot. Katara heaved a long, relieved sigh as she quickly stepped away from the mare and her foal, as did Hinadi. Katara stood and watched for a minute with a small smile, until the man quickly broke the calmness.
"Oh, good lord, thank you so much…h-how can I ever repay you?" He asked Katara as he stepped closer to her. Katara smiled and stared up at him.
"No need to repay me, I'm…Just doing my job," Katara smiled softly as she sat down on her haunches. She then sighed softly and watched the mother and her foal get acquainted. The mare slowly stood and began to clean her young off, the foal whinnied softly as it lived its first moments in the world.
"What gender, do you know?" the man asked, not wanting to get too close to the mare and foal.
"It's a boy," Katara smiled, "A healthy boy."
"Ah, yes…I won the bet," the man laughed softly as he placed his hands by his sides with a smile.
"Giving a breech birth isn't so hard," Katara smiled, the man looked down at her with a bewildered look on his face.
"H-haven't you done that before?" the man asked softly.
"Nope," Katara smiled, shaking her head, "But I…felt as if I knew what I was doing,"
"That's good…and even more amazing, you did it all in your cheetah form…I'm very impressed," the man smiled. Katara cocked her head to the side slightly and sighed.
"Well actually…I'm stuck like this…It's a long story, I'm just trying to help so I can get back to my human form," Katara explained, the man nodded with a smile.
"Well, this is sure to help. You did a good deed," The man said softly as he slowly began to clean up. Katara nodded slowly as Hinadi gently approached and stood next to her.
"Yeah…" Katara smiled as she gazed nowhere, "I did, didn't I," with that, Hinadi bucked her head up and down slightly, "Won't Aditya be proud," Katara smiled as Hinadi chuffed in a happy manner.
In no time, the little foal began to nurse and suckle on his mother, and with the sight, Katara knew everything was going to be okay. She smiled softly and stepped over to the two, careful not to disturb the young foal. The mare perked up at Katara's presence.
"…Thanks," she smiled a small, bashful smile, "I-I don't think I would've made it alone…"
"It's no trouble, really," Katara smiled, "I've done it plenty of times,"
"Wow," the mare smiled, "You sure do look good." With this, Katara grew confused; she then quickly shook her head with a small laugh.
"N-no, I mean I've helped with birth, I haven't…actually given birth myself," Katara giggled as she could feel her face heat up. With the thought of it, Aang immediately crossed her mind.
"Oh," the mare smiled, "But still…Thanks, you really helped…"
"It's no trouble, no need to thank me," Katara smiled. Katara instantly felt a strange feeling. The hay she was now standing on seemed to be digging into her paws. Katara looked about for a minute before she lifted her paw and looked on the bottom. No padding, what-so-ever. Katara's eyes widened at how familiar it looked to her, the color of skin tone showed through a small, thin patch of fur. Katara's heart instantly stopped as she looked about.
"I-I gotta go, I hope everything turns out great with your son," Katara smiled as she quickly headed for the stable door, "Come on Hinadi, we've gotta go,"
"Thanks again," the mare called as Katara darted out of the stables, Hinadi quickly followed.
"You're welcome!" Katara called.
She quickly darted past a few smaller stables before she came to the wide, open field she had walked through hours ago. She frowned as she quickly began to feel light headed, and running was a lot harder to do now. She felt as if it hurt to run like this now, there was no support on her paws, so basically any type of ground she ran on hurt her paws more than ever.
She swiftly plowed through the field, not caring at the moment if her paws were hurt. Something strange was happening and she didn't know what. She frowned and whimpered slightly as she immediately made her way out of the field and into town. She could hear Hinadi keep a steady pace directly behind Katara. Katara was glad she was there, just in case something happened to her. Katara quickly entered town again as she looked up at the sky, noticing it was now dark out, and everyone in the town was either asleep or making themselves comfortable into the calm, cool night.
Katara frowned as she could instantly feel dizzy. She slowed her run to a quick stop and she gently wobbled about. She shook her head, hoping to gain balance, but the whole world basically spun out of control. She could instantly hear Hinadi let out worried whimpers and soft neighs as she wandered about Katara.
Katara let out a soft cry and doubled to the ground. She felt so out of her skin, yet so normal at the same time. She slowly sat up, her vision fogged. She quickly noticed a small alley way a little to the right, and she quickly stood in order to get there and lay down for a second. As she walked, she felt as if her back legs had gotten longer for some reason, and even though her thought process was totally blurred and not straight at the moment, she pushed herself upright and stood. She then looked down, only to see skin. Nothing but skin and maybe a few thin patched of fur that lined her stomach and pelvic area. Katara whimpered slightly and pressed her hands to her stomach. She then looked about her body.
"M-my kimono…" Katara mumbled softly as she whimpered and looked up. She then quickly headed for the alley way she saw a minute ago. Once there, she instantly felt her whole world crash and collapse. She instantly felt her knees give out and she doubled to the ground, yet again, but this time, fell unconscious. The last thing she heard was Hinadi's full of worry whimpers and neighs until everything went away, in her mind. She fell into a deep sleep.
Hinadi, at this point in time was now more than worried. She neighed softly and looked about, wondering if there was someone, anyone that could help her, but no one was out at this time of night. She instantly knew in her mind which direction camp was at. She quickly reared up and darted forward, only to catch the perfect gust of wind and take off, in search for the airbender she knew all too well.
After a few minutes, Hinadi arrived at camp. She quickly landed and looked about; eyes darted around her surrounding before her cat like eyes fell onto Aang, who was now yawning and rubbing the back of his head with one hand, the other in the air, during mid stretch. Hinadi reared up and immediately headed over to him. Once close, she neighed softly, which got Aang's attention.
"Hinadi," Aang said, surprised as he gently put his hand on her snout. She chuffed in an impatient manner and she shifted her hooves and paws slightly, as if in a restless way, "Hinadi, where's Katara?" Aang asked softly, now worrying to the highest extent. He knew he searched the small water tribe village, high and low, and now to have Hinadi show up without her, Aang was now past worried.
Hinadi let out a soft neigh and looked about quickly. She then quickly leaned down and grabbed hold of Aang's long, yellow night shirt. She then quickly lifted her head and tugged on Aang's shirt, hard too. Aang lunged forward and gasped slightly as he gently placed his hands on Hinadi's snout.
"Okay, okay, I get the hint I'll come with you," Aang said with a soft laugh before he quickly mounted Hinadi. She then immediately took to the skies, flying over the now dark and eerie bamboo forest. After a few minutes of doing so, Hinadi immediately landed where the dark alley way was. Also where Katara lay unconscious. Aang quickly dismounted Hinadi and stood, looking around, rubbing the back of his head. Hinadi instantly began inching closer to the dark alley way Katara was in. Aang, almost hesitantly, headed over to where Hinadi was standing.
He slowly entered the alley way to see Hinadi standing next to what looked to be a body. She shifted her paws and hooves quickly as she whimpered softly. Aang stepped over to the body, it was curled in the fetal position, head tucked under its arms. Aang frowned and got closer, only to realize that it was Katara. Aang gasped softly and stepped closer to her quickly, only to immediately notice that she wasn't wearing clothes. Aang's heart instantly stopped as he could feel his stomach gather in his throat. He warily stared down at Katara, not able to see anything at the moment, but he knew he had to move her at one point or another.
Aang blushed furiously as he quickly knelt next to her; he rested a gentle hand on her bare side with a frown.
"Katara," Aang called softly. No answer. Aang gently shook on her a little, "Katara," He frowned, feeling the emotions of sadness and slight confusion fill his now pounding heart.
Aang shook his head and brushed off the more irrational part of himself. He gently moved Katara so that she wasn't curled into a little ball. As much as he felt he had his emotions under control, he didn't. His hands began to shake slightly as he stared down at Katara. Her delicate body gently sprawled before him. Aang couldn't help but let a small smile play across his face before he quickly shook his head and leaned closer to her.
"Katara," He called softly as he touched her face and cheeks slightly. He shook on her bare shoulders before he frowned and looked at Hinadi. She chuffed and let her long tail wag slightly as she too investigated what was going on. Aang gently pat her long snout and sighed shakily.
"Come on, Hinadi, we need to get Katara back to camp," Aang said to the Shirlakoi softly. She seemed to understand as she perked up slightly. Aang frowned and slowly looked back at Katara. He couldn't help but think how utterly beautiful she looked in this moment, but he knew he shouldn't stare. He quickly, yet gently began to take his long night shirt off. He then gently hoisted Katara up into a sitting position before he gently slipped his shirt over her head and onto her body.
He smiled a little as he quickly swept her up into his arms, her warm, delicate body rested against his with ease. Aang sighed softly and looked at Hinadi. She chuffed and looked a little relieved; she was a lot less restless than she was a few minutes ago. Her seeing Katara in Aang's arms was her signal that Katara was going to be okay.
Aang and Hinadi slowly strolled out of the dark alley way before Aang, without too much trouble, hoisted himself and Katara up onto Hinadi's back. With a gentle tap into Hinadi's sides, she slowly took off into the night sky, with Katara and Aang on her back. Once over the bamboo forest, Hinadi landed gently, not looking to harm the two on her back. Aang quickly hopped off of Hinadi with Katara in his arms. He was almost instantly greeted by Sokka.
"Aang, where did you find her?" Sokka questioned as he stepped closer to the two, "And…why is she wearing your shirt?"
"I-I found her in an alley way, unconscious and…um…" Aang trailed off and stared at Hinadi.
"-and naked, obviously," Sokka chuckled as he gently fingered Aang's night shirt that Katara wore. A deep blush instantly spread across the young airbender's cheeks.
"It was thanks to Hinadi…If she wouldn't have shown me where Katara was, I doubt I'd find her…" Aang said softly as Sokka pat Hinadi's snout.
"Good job, Hinadi," Sokka smiled, Hinadi chuffed slightly and perked up.
"Yeah," Aang agreed.
"So, is she alright? Obviously she did something to get herself out of the cheetah form she was in, huh," Sokka said softly, Aang nodded.
"Guess we'll find out when she wakes up," Aang smiled as he slowly began to head over to the tent Sokka had put up a little bit ago. It was cold outside and he felt that the three should stay inside something warm for the night.
Aang gently pushed his way through the flap of the tent before he headed over to his sleeping spot, where he had Katara's sleeping bag gently spread. He ever so carefully laid Katara down on the soft fur of her sleeping blankets before Sokka made himself present. He slowly plopped down onto his sleeping bag, which wasn't too far away from Katara's.
"So…" Sokka started softly as he rested his arms behind his head, he then stared up at the soft, tent material above him before continuing, "How do you think Katara got out of her cheetah form?"
"Hmm…" Aang hummed softly as he gently adjusted Katara under her warm covers, he then stared at her for a moment, tempted to join her, "I-I don't know…Something big, I presume,"
"…Maybe she saved a whole clan of tiger bears or something," Sokka laughed as he stretched his arms out wide, "O-or maybe she…Hey, what are you doing?" Sokka questioned loudly as he looked over to the young monk, who had completely crawled his way into Katara's sleeping bag, he cuddled close to her unconscious self.
"I-I…uhm…" Aang stuttered as he quickly gripped his night shirt that Katara was wearing, he clenched it gently as he could feel his cheeks get hot, "I-I'm just keeping her company…I want her to be comforted," Aang said softly and honestly. Sokka chuckled.
"Sure, sure," He smiled as he waved his hand around slightly, "I'm just teasing you,"
"Mhmm…" Aang mumbled as he laid his head down on the pillow him and Katara now shared, "Goodnight, Sokka."
"Mmm…" Sokka mumbled as he made himself comfortable in his own bed, "G'night airhead."
Aang smiled softly as he caught a quick, last glimpse of Katara before Sokka blew the candle light out. Aang sighed softly as he stared through the darkness for a few minutes, letting his eyes adjust. Once he was somewhat comfortable with the darkness around him, he gently let his arms wander about Katara's waist, hoping to get the perfect grip to hold her in. He smiled softly and carefully pulled his sleeping beauty closer to him, her very warmth and essence seemed to calm him down and give him a feeling he's never felt with any other girl before. He sighed; loving the feeling as he gently began to nuzzle his nose into the top of her soft head, into her good smelling hair.
He hugged her close, knowing she was more than safe in his arms, he'd never let anything happen to her. With a small smile and a firm, yet delicately gentle grip around the young waterbender next to him, he slowly was lulled into a calm, night's sleep. With his love by his side, and nothing to disturb him. Until…
-
"Come on you two! Wakey, wakey!" Sokka hollered as he poked his head into the tent, Sokka then quickly began to poke Aang's foot, which was sticking out of the blankets slightly, with the tips of his toes. Aang let out a small, raspy giggle before quickly pulling his foot back into the covers.
"Aw, come on I heard that…GUYS get up, I made breakfast again, and if you don't come out here soon, I-"
"You're going to eat it all up, I know…" Aang mumbled as he rubbed his eye with a free hand. Sokka just mumbled and walked out of the tent, leaving Aang and Katara alone.
Aang instantly let a small smile spread across his face as he looked down, noticing Katara fully cuddled into his arms and chest.
"Katara," Aang cooed softly as he gently swept a gentle hand a top her soft head, "Wake up, I've got a surprise…" With this, Katara mumbled slightly, shifting a little in Aang's arms to get just the right position of comfort. She instinctively began to bury her face and nose into Aang's chest, in hopes of avoiding the gentle morning sunshine.
"Katara," Aang said with a small giggle as he gently pat her back, "Wake up, I know you'll like what's happened…"
"Mm, what?" Katara mumbled as she gently began to wrap her arms around Aang's waist. She then froze, realizing what she was doing, and what she was now able to do. Aang chuckled after a few minutes of holding onto Katara, who was stock still, breathing into Aang's chest.
"Aang…" Katara mumbled, Aang cocked his head slightly.
"Hmm?"
"I'm not furry…" Katara stated as she tightened her grip around Aang slightly.
"No, you're not…" Aang said with a small laugh before Katara quickly pulled away from Aang, to get a good look at her hands. Her eyes widened with all the joy in the world as she inspected her arms and hands. She then gently began to touch and play with her hair, happy giggles and smiles galore. Aang smiled eagerly and watched her explore her almost forgotten lifestyle.
"Aang!" Katara said softly, in an excited manner as she quickly gripped his shoulders, "Do you know what this means?!"
"I-I get a kiss?" Aang smiled sheepishly, Katara ignored him.
"Helping that moniko horse really did pay off!" Katara giggled as she gazed off to the side. Aang sighed softly with a smile. He then let his eyes widen.
"A-a moniko horse? Those things are still alive?" Aang questioned with a bewildered look on his face, Katara heaved a soft, satisfied sigh and let her hands meet Aang's chest.
"Yeah, a-and…I helped the mare give birth," Katara smiled.
"Oh?" Aang said with a small smile.
"Yeah…her baby was breech, but…He's okay now, alive and healthy… Oh, Aang, he was so adorable you should've seen him try to stand," Katara giggled as she gently pat Aang's chest, "His little legs all wobbly and whatnot," she stated with a big smile.
"So, that's what helped you get out of the cheetah form?" Aang questioned, Katara nodded before Aang continued, "Wow…No wonder, you helped their species grow…Even though it wasn't in a big way, you did help…and I'll bet that sure showed…uhm, whoever trapped you in the cheetah form,"
With this, Katara's facial expression fell slightly. She bit her bottom lip and stared at Aang.
"It was Vyntresser Aditya," Katara stated softly, Aang's eyes widened slightly.
"A-Aditya?" Aang croaked, "How do you know? Did you talked to her? Did you see her? How did she get you back to norm-"
"Aang," Katara giggled slightly, interrupting him. His eyes now full of eagerness as he basically pressed himself closer to Katara, wanting answers.
"I-I…had a dream the night before last night and…In my dream, I visited the spirit world, and I met up with Vyntresser Aditya," Katara said softly, hoping to calm Aang down a bit. He gently began to nibble on his bottom lip, listening attentively.
"…Did she mention why she left me?" Aang questioned in a slight angry tone, but there was a twinge of sadness.
"Aang, she left you for a good reason, if…If she wouldn't have left, the Vyntresser cycle wouldn't have continued…" Katara stated softly as she gently stared into Aang's eyes, "A-and…We would've never met." With this, Aang frowned, now feeling as if he understood. He let his eyes wander a bit as he thought. He then shook his head slightly before nodding.
"I understand," he said softly.
"I-It was for the sake of other Vyntresser's to come, Aang. She knew what she needed to do, and it had to be done, and-" Katara was cut off.
"What…exactly did she do, might I ask…?" Aang said slowly as he stared into Katara's eyes. Katara could feel her heart shatter, not really wanting to break the news to him on how his mother figure left him.
"W-well she…" Katara heaved a soft sigh and looked into Aang's eyes, "She…killed herself." Katara instantly noticed Aang's eyes fill with tears as he bit his bottom lip. He then shook his head and looked down as a tear gently spilled from his brilliant eye. It cascaded down his cheek before gently dripping onto Katara's chest.
Katara frowned and gently hugged Aang close to her, she wrapped her warm arms around Aang's shoulders for his comfort and she pulled him into a tight embrace. She knew this was hard for him; he has already lost too many people he had grown attached to. Katara felt as if it wasn't fair for him anymore. Oh the pain he's seen, yet he's strong enough to keep a positive outlook on life.
Katara gently swept her hand across the top of Aang's soft, bald head before she shook her head and gave Aang a tight, affectionate squeeze. She then leaned her lips close to his ear.
"…but, I did promise I'd come back…Didn't I?" Katara said ever so softly with a smile. She could instantly feel Aang tense in her arms before he pulled away with a small, loving smile. He stared, longingly, into her brilliant eyes for the longest time, wondering how he'd ever survive without her love and passion that kept him going and on his feet. He could instantly feel his heart pound and swell with happiness and affection for the beautiful girl that lay next to him.
"…I love you," Aang said ever so softly, almost to the point of a whisper. Katara instantly let a gentle smile play across her face as she leaned closer to him. She nibbled her lip slightly.
"I love you, too…" She whispered as she gradually grew closer and closer to the young monk next to her.
"I-I…don't think I've ever…loved anyone as much as I love you," Aang said softly, he blushed furiously as he could basically feel Katara's warm, sweet breath on his moist lips.
"Just kiss me," Katara said softly with a small giggle before Aang quickly obeyed her order.
Aang ever so gently, yet quickly, wrapped his arms tight around Katara's waist before tenderly planting his soft lips onto Katara's. Katara, slightly taken aback, gasped softly and ever so gently slipped her hand just under Aang's jaw line and cheek; she gently pulled him closer to her, wanting to be oh so close, in order to make up for the past few days without this type of intimate closeness they wanted and needed between their growing and everlasting relationship.
Aang, after a few seconds, eagerly deepened their amazing kiss as he gently hugged his love tighter and tighter, until she was flush against him; her warm body and soft skin made his every nerve ending swim, which only caused him to push closer to Katara.
Katara gently wrapped her arms around Aang's neck and shoulders, absolutely loving the feeling of his lips against hers. She savored every second of tasting his lips, smelling his sweet breath, hugging his warm body ever so close to hers; she loved it all, wondering how she had even thought of going a few days without it. She felt ever so spoiled, and she had to admit, it felt so good.
The two continued to gently kiss the morning away, without a single care in the world. Not even the mere thought of five seconds ahead in time crossed their minds. They lived the moment they've been waiting for, to delve further into their intimate love, and nothing, not even Hinadi could pull them from this moment. They held each other endearingly close, not wanting to let go of their ever so sweet moment in time.
Love held them together, great, strong and pure. And nothing was going to break them apart.
Nothing.
A/N: :D! So…what didja guys think? Was it good enough? Did I do a good job? Was it okay? O.o I'm a worry wart, guys, get used to it xD
LOL. Uhm, let me know if this chapter was too long…I kinda went all out and didn't know if I should just split this chapter in two…But then I would've left you guys with an awful cliffhanger D: and-and there'd be daggers and…Angry faces and…people shouting at me to update… xD haha.
But then there would've been a huge mix up in all my chapters, therefore there'd end up being like…21 or 22 chapters, and I don't want that cause I want things to be balanced, cause I'm cool like that… 8)
So yeah. Sorry for all of you guys that are like… 'o.o' at your computers right now, wondering when this ramble of mine is going to stop… Which should be soon but I'm kinda bored, so yeah x)
AHG. So, was the Kataang okay? I need to stop worrying and get on with chapter 15 for you all…It should be nice and fluffy …Aw, who am I kidding, it's totally action packed…BUT. It could be a mixture of both o.o ha, okay now here's my cliffhanger for you guys. Lol. It's nothing much actually, more like…Me just…continuing to ramble and waste my time in Word here oO…
This is going to sound weird but, I here-by dedicate this chapter to my kitty cat, Kuuipo!...Only because she stayed with me in my lap the whole time I wrote this…Which took over a few hours…and I'm really surprised she didn't die or something o.o that would've been sad…This chapter…dedicated to a dead cat…Ohkay wow. Let's not go there please ,o.o
Now I think I'm just talking to myself, most of you have probably X-ed out of this box right after you saw the 'A/N:' sign…Yeah. You know. I shall give cookies to all of those who actually read all of this. Haha! If you earned a cookie, say I!.. .. .and give yourself a big hug…You deserve it o.o
;) Stay tuned.
-Katara-
KIARI! I heart you…Sorry, I liked.. DIED once school let out and I never got the chance to e-mail you or nothing, lol. So yeah, just thought I'd say hi…cause yeah. 8) Call me sometime or something
Mohalo ;)