-Really fast note! I went back and re-wrote the first oh..maybe 7-10 chapters of 'The Journey Begins'. So, if you guys wanna go back and R&R that book, please do so, because I made it a bit more understandable and at my level of writing right now…Especially the chapter were Katara and Aang share their first kiss :3 So, go back and read if you want! I think it's a whole lot better the second time around :)--
A/N: So anyways, I -really- hope you guys enjoy this chapter…because it's my most favorite one yet and I'm planning on making it long. Mostly because right at this very moment I'm staring at the beautiful, blue ocean before me…from my room! Haha. I think it's kind of strange, staring at the ocean through the sliding glass door while your sitting on your bed, listening to pretty Asian…or African iono x); music from the score of a movie…-sigh- this is the life…
Anywhoodles…enough 'bout mwa. I hope you all are enjoying your summers:D I pray that every single one of y'alls are having as much fun as I am
Mkay…this chapter has many little hidden secrets and hints for future chapters/plot line…so read between the lines if you can You all should know that by now x) And as of today, I have the next book of this trilogy named :D I was so inspired when a good friend of mine and I were sitting on the beach, staring at the stars. I'll let you guys know what the name is, of book three, in chapter twenty ;)
- As you all can probably tell by now, I -love- animals…Especially Katara's six Vyntresser forms, the cheetah, dragon, dolphin, hawk, the-Oh geez!...I totally almost gave that away… oO thank goodness for the back space button! -mentally wipes sweat from brow- 'oO'
Anyways … This chapter features my all time favorite animal! …Well, it's one of few…but keep your eyes peeled :D…it's actually not hard to miss…and if you do so happen to miss it…well, uhm… O.o
Enjoy!
Book Two – Water and Air
Chapter Sixteen – Secret of the Hibiscus Cave
"SOKKA!" Katara hollered as she gently began to shove him; she then groaned aloud, "Why did I have to listen to you…"
"Because you're-"
"It was a rhetorical question!" Katara yelled as she shoved harder. The four were jammed onto Appa's saddle. Two siblings, cheetah cub, Shirlakoi and all; Aang sat on Appa's head and steered. The seven were high in the air on a cool, autumn morning headed south; they were now a little delayed on reaching the South Pole.
"Well, it's not my fault we couldn't find anything for Hinadi to eat…" Sokka mumbled, Hinadi then chirped slightly and let her ears droop. She lay with her head gently rested on the soft fabric of Appa's saddle, forcing Sokka and Katara to the far end of it, squished together.
"You smell funny…" Katara commented out of randomness. She then plugged her nose and waved her other hand around in disgust. Sokka snorted.
"I do not, I'll have you know that I took a bath…um…when did I take a bath…" Sokka continued to ramble to himself, Katara cringed and looked away.
"I think I just threw up a little," Katara said with a small whimper as she gently gripped her throat.
"Guys!" came a voice from Appa's head, Aang quickly steered the large bison through the somewhat cloudy sky.
"Yeah?" Katara replied as she shoved Sokka a little.
"OW!" Sokka squealed.
"There's a strip of land not to far away that I can see, should we land to find Hinadi some food?" Aang called as he peeked over Appa's saddle from his bison's head.
"PLEASE," Katara exclaimed as she glanced at Sokka. Sokka rolled his eyes as Hinadi let out a loud moan; she then shifted her hooves and paws so that she was comfortable.
"See? Hinadi doesn't like you yelling like that; maybe we should just throw you off the side…" Sokka suggested as he looked off of the edge of Appa's saddle.
"Gee, you're funny, but I think you'd be doing us all a favor if you were the one going off of the edge…" Katara said loudly.
"You know what," Sokka started loudly as he pushed both of his hands to Katara's back, "I'm gunna-"
Sokka was immediately cut off by Hinadi, who quickly turned her head and whinnied a long, loud, ear shattering neigh straight at the two bickering siblings. Katara and Sokka sat stock still, staring at the angry Shirlakoi before them; her large cat like brown ears lay flat on her head.
"Katara," Sokka started in a soft, yet harsh and angry whisper, "I think you should lower your voice."
"Me?!" Katara yelled, Sokka flinched before he took a deep breath.
"Yes you! You're all shouty and whatnot, I mean, look at poor Hinadi, all she wants to do is eat!" Sokka hollered.
"Well, maybe we should just cut you into bits and feed you to her!" Katara yelled.
"I'm not made of meat! I'm made of-"
Sokka was interrupted again as Appa came to a quick, abrupt stop. Hinadi instantly let out a loud chirp and leaped off of Appa's saddle. Katara rolled her eyes, sighed aloud and stood before following Hinadi's idea.
"There should be a river somewhere on this island, Sokka needs a good scrubbing!" Katara snapped as she crossed her arms. Sokka laughed and quickly hopped off of Appa's saddle.
"Good idea, Katara why don't you come with, maybe while we're there I can drown you," Sokka said as a matter of factly as he quickly began to walk towards Hinadi.
"You're infuriating and I-!"
"Guys! Guys, calm down," Aang said softly as he quickly faced Katara and looped one arm around her waist. Katara sighed and looked down as Aang leaned closer to her. He then continued, "Just cool down, we're off of Appa now…" Aang said soothingly, he then turned his head and looked over his shoulder.
"Thank goodness," Katara said softly.
"Sokka, follow Hinadi," Aang said, noticing the large Shirlakoi wander off; Aang then continued, "Make sure she doesn't get lost or anything."
With this, Sokka sighed and slowly strolled after Hinadi, who was now searching for something to eat. Aang smiled and quickly looked at Katara.
"You should probably give Kaimah her breakfast," Aang smiled, Katara sighed softly and nodded before heading over to Appa, where Kaimah's food was in Sokka's bag.
"It's kind of nice here, Aang," Katara commented softly with a smile as she hoisted herself onto Appa's saddle. She then stopped what she was doing and placed her hands on her hips; she looked about with a smile.
They were right in the middle of a thin forest; the small trees had bright green leaves with little pink flowers growing everywhere and the bright morning sunshine shone down through thin, wispy clouds that floated by in the brilliant blue sky. The breeze was cool, they were getting further and further south, and Katara knew sometime soon they'd see snow. How she loved snow, having being raised in a snow filled and icy environment.
They were landed on a small island, but they were further inland. The island was so small that you could hear the gentle roar of the ocean, even when they were slightly far from the beach. There was also a small mountain present, it being covered in all sorts of palm trees and tropical plants.
"You think?" Aang commented to her last statement. He sighed and crossed his arms as he followed Katara's idea and looked about.
"Yeah…We should stay here tonight, I'll bet we'd see a ton of stars," Katara said softly as she bent over and began to rummage through Sokka's burlap bag, knowing Kaimah's milk would be in there.
"Good idea…" Aang said with a long, relaxed sigh. He then swept Kaimah up into his arms once she was near. He gently cradled her in his loving arms with a smile. She looked up at him through brilliant green, cat like eyes with what seemed to be a small smile, although she was a tad bit antsy; she was hungry.
"Alright, I have her milk," Katara said after a few minutes of mixing the formula Sokka 'bought' the day before. Katara smiled and hoped off of Appa's saddle before she noticed Aang cradling little Kaimah in his arms, he was calming her down a little. Katara neared Aang and little Kaimah in a happy manner.
"Okay, here you go," Aang smiled as he gently began to hand Kaimah over to Katara. Katara quickly shook her head.
"No, I think you should feed her, Aang," Katara smiled. Aang gave her a baffled look.
"B-but I've never fed a cheetah cub before," Aang said in a worried tone, "I don't know how," he finished in a bashful type way as he attempted to get Kaimah into Katara's arms. Katara giggled and gently rested Kaimah in Aang's arms.
"I'll show you, it's not hard…It's just like feeding a baby, just pretend she's an infant," Katara smiled. She gently adjusted Aang's arms so that he was holding little Kaimah correctly. Aang grew stiff slightly as he stared down at little Kaimah; it was easy to tell that he was slightly inexperienced. Katara, on the other hand, felt as if it were a second nature. She smiled, knowing Aang had a few things to learn but she was more than willing to teach him.
"A-am I doing it right?" Aang questioned softly, Katara nodded and stood ever so close to Aang with Kaimah's bottle.
"Mhmm," Katara hummed with a smile, "Watch her head," Katara said softly as she handed Aang the bottle full of the slightly warm milk. Aang nibbled on his lip slightly as he gently began to feed little Kaimah. She gladly began to suckle on her bottle in an eager manner; her little paws and claws quickly gripped Aang's red shirt. She quickly began to drink the healthy substance, seeming to take a liking to it.
"Good job," Katara smiled as she gently rested her hand on Aang's, which was tenderly holding Kaimah's head up. She then continued as she scoot closer to Aang, "You're a natural, this type of stuff seems to come easy to you, huh," Katara said with a small giggle as she leaned forward and gave Aang a small kiss on the cheek. Aang blushed.
"Thanks," Aang smiled, Katara nodded.
"Sure thing."
Katara slowly moseyed away with a smile; she made her way over to Appa. Aang instantly blushed and looked down at small, precious Kaimah. Her bottle was now half full and she was still drinking quickly; her little paws were still tightly gripped into Aang's shirt. Aang instantly smiled as he held her bottle with one hand, the other hand and arm gently cradled the growing cub. He stared down at Kaimah for a moment before he slowly began to picture her as a baby. A little, human baby. Aang instantly blushed and let his small smile grow; he quickly let his mind wander, he not being able to help himself.
He grinned, wondering how it would feel, holding his very own baby; he knew feeding and taking care of a little cheetah cub was exciting but holding his own flesh and blood; he knew it must feel great. He could feel his heart stop once Katara entered his busy thought process. He nibbled his lip slightly as his mind quickly flip flopped this whole, small situation he was in. He subconsciously began to day dream about the future, what it held, how excited he was to find out what would happen; mostly between him and Katara. He knew the past Vyntresser and Avatar before them were in love, and he was excited to find out what was in store for this life he was in.
Is she the one for me?...She has to be, think about all the stuff that has happened between us…A-and now she's having me feed the cub she's been mothering for the past few weeks now? Ahg, Aang snap out of it, it means nothing…she probably just doesn't feel like feeding Kaimah at the moment… Aang sat for a second, pondering while holding the bottle of now diminishing milk for Kaimah.
…If she doesn't feel up to feeding Kaimah then why is she watching me like a hawk…? Aang quickly stole a glance at Katara; she was rummaging through some bags she brought down from Appa's saddle, but she kept a sharp eye on Aang. Maybe she's testing me…? But… why would she be testing me? She knows I'm great with kids… Aang quickly looked down at Kaimah before chuckling slightly. O-or small animals…o-oh gosh, she's coming over here… Aang's thoughts instantly began to jumble as Katara slowly approached.
A-am I holding her right? Ow, her claws are sharp…I hope Katara can't tell that I'm nervous…Dah, I'm not nervous, c'mon Aang…keep it together…Aw who am I kidding…I'm a wreck…o-oh gosh I think she said something.
"Wh-what?" Aang mumbled softly as he nervously looked up at Katara. Katara giggled slightly and leaned closer to Aang with a small smile.
"I said I can take her now if you want…I can tell you're a bit nervous," Katara smiled as she gently slipped Kaimah out of Aang's arms, as well as the almost empty bottle out of Aang's hand.
"I-I'm not nervous," Aang said softly as he quickly fiddled his fingers. Stop being modest…Just keep your mouth shut, Aang…
"Than how come you're fiddling her fingers like that?" Katara giggled, "Aang, how come you're so jittery all of the sudden? You've handled babies before…Even though Kaimah's not a baby…Or a human baby, still, it's similar," Katara smiled. Aang shook his head.
"N-no, I'm fine," Aang mumbled as he slowly walked away. Katara frowned and watched him leave.
"A-alright, if you're sure," Katara said softly as she let Kaimah finish her bottle of milk. She then set little Kaimah down to do what she pleased, to nap and whatnot. Katara quickly hopped up onto Appa's saddle to put her bottle away.
"Guys, I can't find anything for Hinadi to eat, she's so picky!" Sokka yelled as him and the hungry Shirlakoi entered camp.
"You can't?" Katara worried as she quickly jumped off of Appa's saddle.
"No…We came across a few bunnies and-" Sokka stopped his train of thought, once he noticed his sister's face grow from calm to balistically worried. Sokka continued with a loud laugh, "Don't worry, Hinadi didn't eat the little bunnies," Sokka mocked in a high pitched voice. Katara rolled her eyes but sighed.
"Well, I'm going to go look for a stream or something to waterbend in…Maybe I'll just take Hinadi along with me, she might find some food on the way," Katara smiled, Sokka nodded as Momo chirped slightly and hopped from his shoulder over to a few stray trees.
"Good idea," Sokka said softly as Hinadi slowly strolled over to Katara. Her ears and wings drooped slightly in sadness and hunger. Katara smiled and gently pat Hinadi's long snout, feeling better about having the rambunctious Shirlakoi with her while she was hungry, calm and quiet.
"I'll be back sometime soon you guys," Katara smiled as she slowly began to walk through a patch of thin trees. Sokka waved.
"Okay," He called softly before looking about. He slowly strolled about the camp area, knowing something was missing.
"Aang?" Sokka called as he looked about, "Aaaang," Sokka dragged as he slowly headed over to Appa. He quickly hopped onto his saddle, only to see Aang with his head buried into Katara's pillow. Sokka chuckled at the sight and slowly leaned against Appa's saddle; he then noticed Aang was calmly mumbling things into the pillow he had his face buried into. Sokka chuckled softly and eavesdropped.
"What if we- no…Don't think that way, I'm a monk…Ah who am I kidding, I'm the only monk left on earth...and it's not wrong…but we'd have to be married first-dah I don't know what to-"
"Hey airhead," Sokka called, he instantly noticed Aang stiffen in his spot as he shot up. He quickly rubbed his eyes slightly and stared at Sokka with an at ease smile.
"H-hey, um…what's up?" Aang said softly. Sokka shook his head.
"Naw, no no no no no," Sokka said with a small chuckle as he quickly joined Aang on Appa's saddle, "I don't come up here to see you mumbling to yourself…and then you to act like nothing's on your mind. Spill." Sokka said as he sat Indian style before Aang. Aang gently tugged on his collar and looked up to the trees. He could feel a deep blush come across his face.
"It's nothing, don't worry about it," Aang smiled as he, all at once, shot upwards into a near by tree. He gently sat on a sturdy branch before peering down at Sokka.
"Aang," Sokka said deeply as he stood, "Come on, we're both guys, I know something's bothering you."
"Nope. I'm good," Aang beamed as he quickly began to jump branch to branch. Sokka sighed aloud and quickly hopped off of Appa's saddle in order to follow Aang.
"Come on, what is it, is it me?" Sokka chuckled softly as he motioned to himself, "Look, I know I need a bath, but come on…I'll just go find a stream after Katara comes back, does that make you happy?" With this, Aang laughed and stopped on a near by branch.
"No, it's not you," Aang chuckled as he rolled his eyes and stood high and tall; he looked out to the beautiful scenery.
"So, it's not me…Hmm...Well let's see there's Kaimah, Katara, Hinadi, Katara…Appa…Katara," Sokka listed as he let his eyes wander. He then glanced at Aang a few times, "Katara, Katara…Oh, there's Katara, and there's-"
"Okay you caught me…" Aang sighed as he quickly sat down on the tree branch he was on.
"Heh, I always can tell when she's on your mind," Sokka chuckled. Aang rolled his eyes and looked away, feeling his face heat up.
"Yeah, yeah…" Aang frowned as he glanced about.
"C'mon, what is it?" Sokka smiled as he gestured his arms out wide. He then shook his head and rubbed the back of his neck, "Can you come down from there? You know, I'm all up for giving advice but not to someone who is sitting in a tall tree above me…" With this, Aang glanced down at him with a small frown.
"Okay, okay fine, you stay up in your little tree, but you're going to come down sooner or later…" Sokka chuckled before he shook his head. Whether he likes it or not, "What's the problem?"
"I-it's nothing, just forget about it," Aang mumbled as he looked away. Sokka shrugged.
"Okay," Sokka said as he pretended to walk away.
"It's Kaimah," Aang suddenly said. Sokka chuckled and looked up.
"Kaimah? I thought this as about Katara," Sokka said with a small smile.
"I-it is I just…Well, you see, Katara let me feed Kaimah just a few minutes ago and I…" Aang blushed and looked about. He then took a deep breath and looked elsewhere, "I-I couldn't help but think of Katara and…picture myself feeding a baby,"
"Well, that's what Kaimah is," Sokka chuckled. Aang looked down at him with a frown and Sokka quickly stopped, "Alright, I'm sorry…" Sokka said as he shook off his joking side for the time being, "A baby, eh?"
"Yeah, I don't know why…" Aang mumbled as he rubbed the back of his head.
"Well, I do," Sokka chuckled. Aang quickly looked at him, a bewildered look on his face.
"Y-you do?"
"Yeah," Sokka said cheerfully, "You want to have a baby with Katara."
All at once, the tree branch Aang was sitting on snapped in two, causing Aang to plummet to the ground. Aang landed on his back in a harsh way before he instantly began coughing in a loud manner. Sokka instantly bursted out laughing as Aang attempted to regain himself. He stood and brushed himself off; Sokka helped.
"Wh-what did you say?" Aang said in a shaky tone as he could feel his knees begin to tremble; he felt as if his every nerve ending was swimming at the mere thought of the topic.
"You heard me," Sokka laughed before he quickly shook his head and let his eyes bug a little. He then firmly gripped Aang's yellow collar and pulled him close before continuing, "If Katara's pregnant I swear, I'll murder you." Aang instantly felt as if he was going to die from embarrassment.
"No! No no no, please…it's not that at all, you have to believe me," Aang said in a worried tone, he could feel his cheeks heat up furiously at the thought of it all. Thankfully, Sokka let him go.
"This better be 'future fantasies' you're having," Sokka said deeply. Aang nodded his head and now felt as if he was confused for a moment. He's right. Aang thought as he quickly glanced about.
"Yeah," Aang uttered softly as he averted his gaze to Sokka. Sokka chuckled and shook his head.
"You should've seen the look on your face when you were feeding Kaimah," Sokka laughed, Aang's eyes widened.
"What?" Aang questioned loudly.
"Don't think I didn't see you feeding Kaimah when I was coming into camp, I saw the look on your face…I knew what was going on," Sokka chuckled as he twirled his finger towards Aang. Aang blushed furiously and felt as if he had a lump in his throat.
"Um…" Aang mumbled. Was it that obvious?
"I know what you were thinking," Sokka smiled. Aang stared at him.
"You do?"
"Sure, you're just excited for the future is all," Sokka chuckled as he bested a smile. This kid is drowning in a sea of hormones…
"Yeah," Aang smiled a weak smile, "That's it."
"I mean, who knows what the future holds," Sokka chuckled as he pat Aang's shoulder in a guy-ish manner, "You, Katara…you and Katara...a family…"
"I'm just thinking of the airbenders…"Aang said softly with a smile, even though that was partially true. Sokka frowned and stared at Aang for a moment.
"Oh, that's what this is all about," Sokka said in a serious tone. Aang nodded slowly and looked away.
"There has to be someway to bring them back," Aang said softly before he shook his head quickly, "I-I mean I know how to bring them back but…"
"Your son," Sokka smiled. Aang quickly looked at him in a bewildered manner.
"Yeah," Aang said softly.
"I mean…son or daughter," Sokka chuckled before he rubbed the back of his head, "They're going to have to have at least one airbending gene in them."
"It'd be a small start, but…at least I'd be reviving the last of my people," Aang said softly to himself in a happy manner.
"Or waterbending gene," Sokka chuckled, referring to his last statement as he quickly nudged Aang.
"Stop it," Aang blushed as he looked down with a small smile. Sokka laughed and rolled his eyes
"Hey, you know the rule though," Sokka said firmly as he pointed a finger in Aang's face. Aang's eyes bugged.
"What,"
"Marriage first," Sokka said deeply. Aang smiled and nodded in understanding before Sokka continued, "Or else."
"Or else what," Aang teased with a loud laugh. He instantly let his eyes google before he quickly took off running. Sokka quickly began to chase after him.
"I-I was kidding!!" Aang hollered with a loud laugh as he darted about in attempt to keep away from Sokka.
- - -
"N-No! Don't eat those, Hinadi, those are poisonous!" Katara said in a worried tone as she quickly dragged the Shirlakoi away from a bush full of poisonous berries. Hinadi chirped in a pitiful tone as she hung her head and let her ears droop. Her stomach grumbled slightly but loud enough for Katara to hear. Katara instantly frowned and pat Hinadi's long nose.
"Don't worry Hinadi…" Katara said ever so softly, now feeling a bit sorry for the poor Shirlakoi; she then continued, "I-I'm sure we'll find something for you to eat around here…"
With this, Hinadi gently nudged Katara's shoulder as a sign of understanding. Katara smiled, suddenly feeling a small attachment to the playful Shirlakoi. She felt as if Hinadi was ever so slowly getting off of her bad list and making its way over to something more than just an annoying, torture figure. Katara gently smiled at Hinadi and leaned closer to her; she pat her long, furry white snout in a caring way, knowing very well that if she was ever in a situation here she was sad or without food, Hinadi would help; an animals' love is unconditional.
"What do Shirlakoi's eat, Hinadi," Katara cooed softly as she gently stroked her hand down Hinadi's long snout; Hinadi chuffed softly and let her big, brown eyes stare into Katara's. Her ears drooped a little; her hunger pains only grew. Hinadi suddenly perked up and lifted her head high into the air; she looked as if she was sniffing the gentle ocean breeze and with that, she slowly began to wander off. Katara eyed the young Shirlakoi that ever so slowly moseyed through some trees; evidently, she had caught a whiff of something tasty to eat.
"Hinadi?" Katara called as she quickly began to follow the Shirlakoi. Hinadi let out a small neigh as a signal to follow; which is just what Katara did.
She curiously pushed past small bushes and lone palm trees before quickly catching up to Hinadi. She gently rested her hand on Hinadi's soft back before gently patting that area as the two quickly walked. Katara wondered what her sense of smell was picking up, she being more curious to find out what on earth the ever so rare Shirlakoi ate.
"Hinadi," Katara started softly as the rambunctious Shirlakoi slowly began to prance off and with that, Katara grew worried. She quickly began to chase after Hinadi, feeling a bit odd about all of this. Katara slowly began to lose sight of the young Shirlakoi and with that, she began to panic. She quickly pushed past large bushes and whatnot before she ever so suddenly ran into Hinadi. She bumped into her large, dragon like tail that dangled in the air. Katara eyed Hinadi and slowly made her way under and around Hinadi's large tail before making her way to her head.
"I don't know about you but I'd really like to get to my waterbending…some…time…" Katara stopped her train of thoughts and noticed what was before them; a massive hole that led into the very depths of the earth. Katara strained her eyes to see the bottom through the darkness but there was a small path visible. Katara cocked her head slightly, wondering why Hinadi's sense of smell had dragged the two to a large, underground cave. All was calm, that is until Hinadi quickly and happily began to cavort into the cave, leaving Katara out in the sunlight. Katara gaped.
"Hinadi!" Katara called; surprisingly, Hinadi turned around; as if she understood. Katara eyed the Shirlakoi before continuing, "I-I'm not going in there, its dark…" Katara said softly, "Who knows what could be down there."
Katara was suddenly shocked to see young Hinadi slowly stroll up the large hill she had run down seconds ago. She neared Katara with what looked to be a small smile on her face; she gently began to nuzzle Katara's cheek in a loving manner; as if Hinadi was reassuring her everything would be okay.
Katara was stunned; she suddenly felt as if Hinadi could understand her. Not just word wise but feeling wise as well. Katara instantly smiled, feeling comforted as she gently pat Hinadi's snout. Hinadi chuffed softly and stared into Katara's eyes for a calm moment. Her eyes; so big and brown with loving care, yet at times they were so full of excitement; so full of energy it almost scared Katara to look at her. How the young Shirlakoi's attitude towards life reminded her so much of the loving airbender she knew so well. With the thought of that one particular airbender, Katara instantly felt comforted.
Hinadi seemed to be smiling at her before she ever so gently spread a long, brown wing and delicately wrapped it around Katara's back and shoulders. The two, without words, slowly began to head down into the cave; Hinadi gently guiding Katara the whole way in a protective manner. Her enormous, gentle wing tenderly guarded Katara and held her close to Hinadi's warm, furry body as the two delved further into the dark cave.
- - -
"Come on, please?" Sokka begged as he held little Kaimah out to Aang.
"No, I'm not going to act it out again, Sokka," Aang said loudly as he quickly began to walk away. He then stopped himself before quickly walking back to Sokka; he then gently took the little cub from Sokka's grip before continuing, "I don't trust her with you anyways,"
"Aha! Father-like material!" Sokka hollered as he pointed, causing Aang to roll his eyes and head towards Appa.
"Be quiet," Aang said, blushing a little.
"Aw c'mon, you know I'm just teasing you…" Sokka laughed softly as he quickly caught up with the young airbender. He then chuckled a loud, "-but it was pretty funny to see you all nervous like that,"
"Yeah, yeah…it's hilarious," Aang mumbled as he ever so gently set Kaimah down after giving her a kiss a top her head. Sokka shook his head with a small sigh.
"Why are you so embarrassed?" Sokka laughed, "I mean, sooner or later, you are going to have children…I'll bet money it'll be with Katara,"
"I-I'm embarrassed because…b-because I'm talking to my girlfriend's brother about this…" Aang said loudly, feeling his face heat up.
"Well, so? I can't be that intimidating," Sokka said softly as he stared at Aang. Aang gave him an unbelievable look before quickly airbending himself up onto Appa's saddle. Sokka gaped, "Aang, c'mon,"
"Leave me alone, you've done a good enough job of embarrassing me as it is," Aang said softly before he quickly plopped down on his back, letting his head meet Katara's pillow.
"Sorry," Sokka said softly, feeling a little guilty. He knew this must be hard for Aang and with that, he decided to lay off the teasing for now. He sighed softly and sat down across from Aang, "Look, I'm just trying to say that…what ever may happen in the future between you two…I'm okay with it," Sokka said gently causing Aang to look up at him; a bewildered look on his face.
"Really?" Aang asked.
"Well sure," Sokka smiled, "I mean…you're only what…a year or two away from marrying age, and Katara's getting close…Something's oughta happen between you two sooner or later, you know?"
"Yeah," Aang said with a small smile as he averted his gaze elsewhere; he suddenly felt his face heat up as he smiled a happy smile.
"And you are the one that's keeping her going," Sokka said softly, "Both Vyntresser and self wise," Sokka added. Aang smiled and sat up slightly.
"Marrying age…" Aang said softly to himself before pondering. I wonder how you make a betrothal necklace…
- - -
Katara eagerly pressed herself closer and closer to Hinadi, wanting to get away from the darkness surrounding her as much as possible. Katara was somewhat happy to find that with every inch she had managed to get closer to the Shirlakoi next to her, the more Hinadi would drape her massive, brown, feathery wings around her back and shoulders. Katara gently began to snuggle into the warmth as the two walked; suddenly feeling as if Hinadi was her protector, even though the Shirlakoi was annoying, she had good intentions…And she was very smart.
Katara gently fingered Hinadi's soft, white, fur; she wondered why it resembled Appa's fur so much. It was the same consistency, the same texture, even the same color…Although in this darkness, Katara couldn't see two inches in front of her; her fear of darkness slowly began to take over with each step the two took. Katara whimpered slightly and pushed herself as close as she could to Hinadi before taking a deep breath.
"Hinadi, do you know where you're going?" Katara asked softly, mostly to herself; knowing all to well the Shirlakoi couldn't answer…but to Katara's surprise, Hinadi let out a small, cheerful chirp. Katara's eyes widened as she attempted to look at Hinadi in the darkness, now having a slight inkling that maybe this creature had more in her than she showed. Katara nibbled her lip slightly; wondering what else she could say to test her theory further. She instantly pressed herself as close as she could to Hinadi and cringed.
"I-I'm scared, Hinadi," Katara fibbed slightly; she had to admit, she was a little skeptical about all of this. Before Katara knew it, Hinadi instantly stopped walking and tightened her grip around Katara; Hinadi's long, brown wing now basically covering Katara. Hinadi sweetly scoot closer to Katara; even more so than what she already was. She then slowly turned her head to look at Katara; Hinadi's eyes were able to see what Katara couldn't.
To Katara's surprised, Hinadi ever so gently began to lick Katara's cheek in a loving manner; not even close to the point of being slobbered on. Just gentle licks. Katara smiled a little as she gently began to giggle and inch her face away from Hinadi; she was instantly surprised to see a small, glowing blue light appear just a little to the right of Hinadi. Katara's eyes widened as she stared at the little blue light, wondering what it was. She gently wriggled free from Hinadi's protective grip before quickly moving over to the source of light.
"Hinadi, it's a flower!" Katara exclaimed; Hinadi let out a small chuff and ever so gently began to tug on Katara's braid; signaling for her to follow Hinadi. Katara was slowly dragged away.
"B-but, flowers aren't supposed to glow," Katara commented before she quickly pressed herself to Hinadi; now getting farther away from the small, glowing flower. Katara turned her head and quickly looked over her shoulder, only to see the large flower close its petals…therefore making the calm, glowing blue light disappear. Katara's eyes widened as it quickly became dark; she pondered, what type of flower would glow like that?...
"Wh-what is this place," Katara calmly asked herself as she fiddled Hinadi's fur; she could instantly feel Hinadi's long, brown wing drape around her back and shoulders again for protection as the two slowly turned a corner; they were now able to see a source of light coming from something. They slowly emerged from a large pile of boulders stacked in a pile; therefore revealing something Katara thought she'd never see underground…
- - -
"Oh don't be so immature," Sokka hollered; him and the young airbender were now totally soaked after finding a stream just near camp. The two were having a water fight.
"Just because I can bend and you can't makes me the immature one?" Aang pretended to be sad as he quickly bended water from the little stream.
"Now, now," Sokka started in a worried manner, "Let's not go get our…pants in a rut,"
"You're not even wearing pants!" Aang hollered with a loud laugh. Sokka quickly looked down, seeing nothing but his chest and under clothes.
"I-" Sokka was immediately interrupted as Aang sent the water that he was bending straight into Sokka; sending him flying backwards. Aang instantly let out a victorious laugh and jumped up and down.
"That makes nine for me!" Aang yelled, Sokka groaned as he attempted to stand. He then shook his head, letting his hair fling about in order to get dry.
"Oh, you better run," Sokka hollered before he quickly began to run over to Aang; only to have Aang immediately airbend himself into a nearby tree.
"Just face it Sokka…" Aang started as he stood on the tall branch with much pride, "Benders have a lot more fun than non benders,"
"That's not true," Sokka hollered with a small laugh as he pointed upward to the young monk.
"Oh yeah?"
"Yeah!" Sokka said in a proud manner, "There are a lot of things I can do that you benders can't…"
"Name one," Aang chuckled.
"I…"
"Just what I thought," Aang said loudly as he quickly jumped down from his branch. He then stared at the stream before him and pondered, "I wonder why Katara didn't just come to this stream to waterbend," Aang said to himself before, all at once, Sokka plowed into him; sending the two boys head first into the stream before them. Aang instantly splashed out of the deep water with a loud laugh as Sokka pushed and shoved; Aang quickly got away from him.
"I can sneak up on people, does that count?" Sokka asked from the stream; Aang gently sat down on a large boulder with a small sigh.
"No," He called; Sokka's shoulders slumped before Aang stood with a small laugh.
"I'm going to go find Katara," Aang commented before he quickly began to take his shirt off; which was completely wet.
"You're going to go find Katara without your shirt?" Sokka eyed the young monk as he swam over. Aang chuckled and looked down.
"Hey, I'm wearing pants aren't I?" Aang said with a smile as he shrugged. He then motioned to his yellow, airbender pants that scrunched to his knees. He then continued before walking away, "Unlike some people I know," Aang added with a small cough.
"Yeah, yeah, yeah…" Sokka mumbled as he quickly took a seat on the boulder Aang was previously sitting on.
"I'll be back later," Aang called over his shoulder as he strolled past his flying bison; who was calmly taking a small nap with Kaimah on his back. He quickly began to follow Hinadi's large, cat and horse like footprints in the sand like dirt of the forest floor. He followed her footprints for quiet some time as Hinadi's and Katara's footprints wound around the forest in an indecisive manner; as if the two didn't know where they were going.
To Aang's surprise, the tracks quickly led to a massive, hole in the ground; the same cave Katara and Hinadi had wandered into not too long ago. Aang sighed and let his shoulders slump as he stared into the large, dark cave that went into the ground; he watched as Katara's and Hinadi's very footprints disappeared into the cave and with that, Aang grew worried.
"Why," Aang asked loudly to no one but himself as he quickly began to trudge down the large hill that led into the cave; he hoped that his two friends were okay…
- - -
"Oh wow…" Katara marveled as the two slowly came out of the darkness. Katara stared at what was before her. A large, underground lake; it seemed to be glowing, as if the very light source in the massive amount of space around the two was coming from the crystal clear waters. Katara beamed and instantly stepped closer to the lake; she stumbled over something sharp in the process only to find that it was a large, blue shining crystal protruding from the ground. Katara eyed it for a moment before quickly stepping over to the water that seemed to be calling her name.
She instantly peered into the large lake…only to find that the very basin of the lake was as deep as ever; it had to be over fifty feet deep. Katara gaped and stared at the bottom of the lake, she being able to see it because the water was so clear. Katara continued to let her eyes wander about, seeing no life in the water…but plenty of underwater plant life. Katara pondered before she let her eyes skim the surface of the water.
Before too long, she noticed a small cliff that looked over the lake and with that cliff came a small waterfall. A single streamed waterfall that delicately poured into the deepest end of the shining, crystal lake before her. Katara could've sworn she's never seen anything like this and with her thoughts, she instantly felt the need to waterbend; she not being able to do it while she was so harshly stuck in her cheetah form. All was calm as Hinadi slowly walked up to Katara.
"Hinadi, have you ever seen anything like it?" Katara asked excitedly as she gently gripped Hinadi's long muzzle in her gentle hands. Hinadi chuffed softly before gently motioning her head out to the water. Katara quickly averted her gaze; only to see what looked to be fins. Katara's eyes widened as the few black and white fins multiplied. She gaped and ran over to the lakes' edge.
"Dolphins!" Katara exclaimed as she peered into the water, seeing the pod of rare, black and white dolphins swim about. She smiled, loving how they cavorted about in the water; playing with each other and spraying water from their blow holes; only to give a display of water from the surface of the crystal lake. Katara smiled as she gazed at he pretty creatures before her. She then quickly turned to look at Hinadi; only to see her gently drinking the smooth, lake water before them. Katara cocked her head and quickly headed over to her.
"Hinadi, I thought you were hungry," Katara commented before she quickly began to strip down to her underclothes; the white wraps she would waterbend in; but instead of waterbending, she felt the need to immerse herself in the water completely.
"I'm going to go see if I can talk to those dolphins," Katara commented; half to herself, half to Hinadi. Hinadi gently chuffed and lifted her head from the water. She watched Katara gently prepare to dive into the water but Hinadi's teasing and annoying side quickly got the best of her. Hinadi, without warning, immediately thrashed her head forward; therefore catching Katara in the behind and sending her straight into the crystal clear lake. Katara instantly came up for air, gasping and flailing her arms about.
"Hinadi!" Katara hollered as she quickly began to shiver, "This water is s-so c-c…cold," Katara commented as she quickly scrunched into a little ball in the water.
"You think so?" came a gentle voice from behind. Katara quickly looked about, eyes darting around her surroundings.
"…yes?" Katara uttered softly.
"It takes some getting used to," came another voice, sounding a bit more masculine than the first one. Katara quickly looked about, only to see a few dolphins circling her in a delicate manner; the calm water swirled about.
"You guys can talk," Katara marveled with a smile as she came face to face with one of the black and white dolphins. It nodded nonchalantly before cocking its head slightly.
"-and you can too," He said softly before he gently let his long jaw drop slightly; he then continued, "You're the Vyntresser, aren't you!"
"That's me," Katara smiled before she gently made her way over to a small boulder protruding from the lake. She rested on it as the few dolphins followed her.
"Wow," A smaller dolphin gaped in amazement with a big smile.
"I'm Koda," mentioned the dolphin Katara was just talking to. He smiled and motioned to a female dolphin next to him, "And this is my mate, Tisha,"
"Nice to meet you," Katara smiled.
"Well, come on…Get into your dolphin form and we'll show you around some, we're honored to have you in our presence," Koda smiled. Katara instantly frowned, feeling slightly embarrassed.
"Um…" She mumbled before she fiddled her fingers slightly.
"Everything alright?" Tisha asked softly, the few dolphins around the three instantly began to chatter amongst themselves in a quiet manner.
"Maybe she's not the one," Koda whispered to Tisha, Katara instantly frowned and shook her head.
"No, no I'm the Vyntresser it's just…" Katara heaved a soft sigh and looked down at the gorgeous dolphins before her before continuing, "I-I don't know how…to get into my dolphin form,"
"But you're the Vyntresser," the smaller dolphin said.
"You should know how to get into all six of your forms," called another dolphin.
"But…I haven't mastered all of them yet, I don't even know what my last two are…" Katara frowned.
"Where's your mate?" Tisha asked calmly, Katara blushed and cocked her head.
"My mate?" Katara bewildered.
"What she means is, where's the Avatar?" Koda asked plainly. Katara's eyes widened.
"Aang's my mate? I-I…just thought he was my boyfriend...I-I…wait…How did you guys know I was with the Avatar?" Katara questioned all at once; Koda laughed softly.
"The Avatar's love must've made you the Vyntresser, yes?" Koda questioned. Katara slowly nodded before Koda continued, "Therefore…you must be with the Avatar,"
"Yeah, I'm with him, he's back at camp with my brother," Katara commented. Koda nodded.
"Than you are the Vyntresser," Koda smiled.
"I know that," Katara said plainly.
"Then how come you can't get into your dolphin form?" Tisha questioned.
"…I-"
"Are you sure you're the Vyntresser?" The smaller dolphin asked. Katara frowned.
"Yes I'm positive, I-"
"Then let's go!" Tisha laughed.
"Guys!" Katara hollered before she quickly took a deep breath and looked about, she then continued, "I've already mastered my first four forms…My only problem is getting back into them, I don't know how to."
"Well…guess you can just enjoy the caves beauty on foot then," Tisha smiled. Katara cocked her head.
"You mean the lake?" Katara questioned, "It's beautiful, absolutely gorgeous, I've never seen anything-"
"No, not the lake," Koda chuckled; a few of the stray dolphins about slowly began to swim away. Tisha and the smaller dolphin she was with strayed too.
"Then…what?" Katara questioned as she slowly stood and looked down at Koda.
"The hibiscus," Koda smiled. Katara cocked her head and looked about seeing no such flowers anywhere.
"I don't see any hibiscuses," Katara frowned before shrugging.
"Only loves' kiss…can you see the true beauty of the cave hibiscuses," Koda smiled. Katara stared down at the black and white dolphin for a moment before smiling and looking about.
"That sounds a lot like the cave of Oma and Shu," Katara smiled to herself; thinking back to when her and Aang shared their kiss…Only to have their path led by beautiful crystals that lit up with the very presence of true love.
"Too bad the Avatar isn't here…" Koda said softly as he looked up at Katara with a gentle smile. Katara frowned.
"Yeah," she said softly, "I'll bet the flowers are pretty…Although, I saw one on the way in here."
"Only the surprising elements of true love holds the secrets of the Hibiscus cave," Koda smiled before he quickly turned and dove into the cold water before him. He joined his pod in a matter of seconds; they swam about, doing what they did best. Katara nibbled her lip and pondered slightly.
Maybe I should just go back and get Aang…tell him that I have a surprise for him, Katara thought as she slowly sat down on the large boulder she was on. I'd die to see more of those pretty flowers…Katara suddenly felt her face heat up slightly, A kiss would be nice too…
- - -
"K-Katara?" Aang said softly as he strained his eyes to see through the darkness around him. He frowned, wondering why on earth Katara and Hinadi would wander in here…He figured something bad had happened to them which only made him trudge further into the darkness; he being determined to see if the two were alright.
"Katara…" Aang dragged out, feeling extremely worried, "Hinadi…?"
He was surprised to be ever so suddenly greeted by none other than Hinadi. Aang's eyes widened as his surroundings brightened somewhat; the young Shirlakoi quickly pranced her way over to Aang in a happy manner before quickly nudging his cheek and shoulders. She then began to tug on the bottoms of Aang's yellow airbender pants in a quick manner as her way of telling him to follow. Aang chuckled aloud, thankful that Hinadi was okay and happy.
"Okay, okay I'm coming," Aang said softly as Hinadi quickly dragged him. He was slowly brought around the large boulders both Katara and Hinadi had passed by not too long before.
Aang's eyes widened somewhat as to what he saw before him; the beautiful, massive, glowing lake shone and boasted its beauty. Aang gasped slightly with a small smile as he gently pressed himself closer to Hinadi; he was somewhat surprised to see wildlife gently jumping from the waters below. Beautiful black and white stripped dolphins played about in the water, showing all sorts of small water displays using their blow holes a top their sleek, slippery bodies.
Aang instantly smiled as him and Hinadi quickly stepped closer to the waters edge; something to Aang's right quickly caught his eye. He looked over to see a small boulder protruding from the middle of the crystal, glowing water and sitting slightly leaned over on that boulder was the sweet waterbender he knew all too well. Katara looked as if she were talking to someone on the other side of the boulder but before Aang could get Katara's attention, she gently dove into the cold water; therefore joining her new dolphin friends.
Aang smiled and stared into the water, only to see Katara swimming with the pretty dolphins; they cavorted about happily in the water, making a splash with their new, human friend. Aang sighed softly, figuring he shouldn't bother Katara and the pod of rare dolphins; seeing as Katara must've had some reason for coming down here. Aang figured it was to waterbend but seeing her now, her plans have changed.
"Did she drag you down here, Hinadi?" Aang questioned softly with a small smile as she gently sat down on the cold, moss grown ground underneath him. Hinadi chuffed loudly and quickly began to nod her head up and down. Aang chuckled and gazed out to the beautiful lake before him. He smiled a gentle smile before he noticed something; Katara wasn't present in the water. Aang quickly began to look about, only to see her slowly climbing a few boulders up the side of the pretty waterfall; it delicately poured water down into the basin of the crystal clear lake.
Aang beamed and quickly stood, hoping he could get her attention. He slowly began to stroll in the direction of the waterfall; Hinadi quickly followed in an eager manner. Aang, with a small smile, quickly began to jump out onto stray boulders that peeked from the smooth surface of the lake; he stood up tall and straight, hoping to get Katara's attention…but nothing was working. Once Katara reached the cliff of the waterfall, she gazed about her surroundings; as if she didn't have a care in the world.
Aang smiled, admiring her beauty, but what he wanted most right now was her attention. He gently began to wave his arms but with no luck. She gently turned around, her back to Aang and Hinadi, as well as the pretty lake just underfoot. Aang heaved a soft sigh as his shoulders slumped slightly. He then let a small smile play across his face as he took a deep breath, prepared to gently call out her name; but before he could emit even the slightest sound, Hinadi butted in.
The energetic Shirlakoi instantly reared up, flapping her long brown wings about as she loudly neighed an almost ear shattering neigh; she kicked her two front legs and paws about in the air before her, bucking her head up and down in the process. Aang instantly slapped both hands over his ears he being somewhat startled by the sudden outburst the Shirlakoi made, but what he didn't know was that Hinadi's loud neigh, that echoed off of the cave walls, had disturbed something more than just Aang's ear drums.
Aang quickly peered out to the waterfall, only to see Katara immediately lose her balance and trip off of the sharp cliff; she rapidly began to fall to the cold waters underneath her with a soft scream. Aang gasped softly before he all at once, threw his arms out in front of himself, therefore freezing a line of the cold cave water before him, creating a long, somewhat twisted ice path leading out to the middle of the lake. He then immediately lunged out onto the ice; he pushed his way down the ice path with all of his strength as well as the help of some waterbending to help him reach the airborne, and falling, waterbender out before him.
Once directly under Katara, he skid to an immediate stop, only to have Katara quickly fall into his arms; just at the perfect moment. Aang panted slightly and gently gripped Katara in his strong, loving arms; one arm gently tucked under Katara's knees and the other delicately wrapped around her waist. He smiled and stared down at Katara, who was basically scrunched into a little ball; her eyes shut tight as if she were still preparing herself to hit the cold water she was about to plummet into. Aang chuckled softly with a small smile as Katara gently un-scrunched; she was shaking a little.
"Good thing I showed up, huh," Aang said with a charming smile as Katara looked up at him in a bewildered manner; she acted as if her whole entire world was spinning, all one big blur up until now. She gently fastened her arms around Aang's shoulders before giving him a small hug.
"Aang," She breathed softly as she pressed herself closer to the airbender whom which held her endearingly close.
"Sorry, I didn't think Hinadi was going to suddenly make noise and scare you like that," Aang chuckled softly as Katara relaxed somewhat.
"It's fine…I'm used to it," Katara said deeply, yet softly as she turned her head to look at the playful Shirlakoi who was now dipping her paws and hooves into the cold, lake water before her. Aang chuckled softly.
"So," Aang started as he gently set Katara on her two feet, "Nice spot to waterbend, huh?"
"Well…I didn't think this lake would be down here, actually," Katara started as she gently organized her hair; she then glanced at Hinadi from afar, "Hinadi's sense of smell kicked in and she led us down here to this cave…Evidently there's something down here that she likes to eat,"
"Hmm," Aang hummed softly as he looked about; he fingered his lip slightly before glancing down at the clear water underneath him, just past the ice him and Katara stood on. He instantly noticed a small school of fish swim by. Aang smiled and pointed before speaking up, "Do you think that's what she's looking for?" With this, Katara joined Aang and looked down, noticing the pretty, blue and silver fish swim about.
"Maybe," Katara said cheerfully before she quickly stood upright and faced Hinadi…Only to see a few small fish hanging out of her mouth; she ate with much delight as she caught her beloved food.
"Fish," Aang said with a small chuckle, "Who would've thought."
"Hinadi eats fish?" Katara questioned in a bewildered manner before she quickly began to head over to the Shirlakoi enjoying her meal. Her paws and hooves were completely submerged in the cold, cave waters. Hinadi didn't seem to mind the coldness of the clear water, though.
"Guess so," Aang smiled, referring to Katara's question, as the two slowly strolled along the ice path Aang had so suddenly made in order to save Katara from falling into the cold waters below.
"That's odd," Katara said softly as Aang gently fell into step with her. The two slowly approached the shore before, ever so suddenly, one of the black and white striped dolphins dove its way across the ice path, only to splash into the cold waters on the other side in a happy manner. Aang instantly grabbed onto Katara's arm and pressed himself closer to her.
"Whoa," Aang breathed as he quickly looked about, "What was that?" With this, Katara giggled and gently removed Aang's hand from her arm; she then tenderly slipped her hand into his.
"They're dolphins," Katara smiled as she gestured out to the large, ever so deep and clear lake out before her.
"There are such things as black and white dolphins?" Aang questioned as he tightened his grip on Katara's hand.
"Yes, and they're friendly, stop worrying," Katara chuckled as she gently let go of Aang's hand; she then, without warning, dove into the cold water just before her. Aang's eyes widened as Katara quickly came up to the surface for air; her long, brown hair gently spread itself out in the calm, cool waters.
"What are you doing?" Aang questioned as he bent over. Katara giggled, covered her mouth and shook her head, seeing Hinadi gently take her place behind Aang.
"Plug your nose, Aang," Katara giggled. Aang instantly cocked his head before Hinadi gently let out a loud chirp; she then did what she did best. She thrashed her head forward, sending Aang soaring just over Katara's head and into the cold waters before him.
"Hinadi!" Aang hollered as he quickly came up to the surface; he then immediately swam his way over to Katara and latched onto her. Katara laughed aloud and gently wrapped her arms around Aang's neck and shoulders.
"Ah, that's even funnier to watch than to have it happen to you, huh," Katara smiled. Aang instantly began to shake in his spot.
"Yeah, yeah…" He shivered as his teeth began to chatter.
"Don't worry about the water, you'll get used to it," Katara smiled as Aang gently let go of her. He then looked about as he slowly swam around, Katara continued as she swam elsewhere, "Aang, I want you to meet somebody."
Aang quickly turned his head, noting at least two or three of the pretty black and white dolphins near Katara. He smiled in awe as Katara lovingly pat each dolphin's head.
"Or…Somebodies," Katara giggled as a few more dolphins made themselves present. Aang did also; he swam near Katara, feeling a bit uneasy.
"Y-You know these dolphins?" Aang questioned with a small smile as a few quickly began to get acquainted with the young airbender.
"Well, as of a little bit ago," Katara smiled; she then began to point to a few of the dolphins, "This one is Koda…Th-that one's Tisha, oh and this one's-"
"You know their names?" Aang chuckled, Katara glanced at him as she gently grabbed hold of Koda's dorsal fin; he then gently began to drag her through the waters in a slow manner.
"Well, of course I do," Katara smiled as she let the cold water hit her skin; she smiled with enthusiasm.
"Did they tell you or something?" Aang asked with an unbelievable laugh. Katara instantly beamed.
"Uh-huh," She smiled. Aang cocked his head, not expecting that answer.
"What?" Aang questioned as Katara and Koda neared him, "I thought you could only talk to common dolphins…You know, grayish, they live in the ocean… Are no where close to looking like yin yang's swimming about in the water," Aang chuckled as one of the smaller dolphins made himself present, close to Aang.
"They are dolphins aren't they? I mean, the dolphin is one of my Vyntresser forms…I'm able to talk to every single one of 'em," Katara smiled as she gently rubbed Koda's small and stubby nose like snout, "No matter what color they are," Katara added gently.
"I wonder how they got down here, all the way in this cave," Aang said softly before Katara slowly made her way over to the large boulder, that protruded from the icy waters, that she was sitting on earlier; Aang followed.
"I don't know," Katara sighed as Aang sat down next to her; the both dripping wet, but not minding the cold.
"Don't forget the secrets of the cave," Tisha smiled to Katara as Koda gently made his way near the boulder the two teens sat on. Katara's heart instantly stopped as she quickly averted her gaze to Aang.
"What did it just say?" Aang asked curiously as he stared down at the beautiful dolphins before the two.
"The cave, the secrets of the hibiscus cave, oh Aang I forgot all about it!" Katara said happily as she gently tapped Aang's arm; Aang eyed her before chuckling and re-adjusting himself so that he was facing Katara.
"Hibiscus cave?" Aang questioned, Katara nodded.
"Yeah, I-I…" Katara suddenly felt her face heat up as she looked about.
"Only true love's kiss," Koda teased in sing song as a few other dolphins began to giggle to themselves, also splashing water around gently. Katara blushed and fiddled her finger slightly.
"Well, what's the secret?" Aang asked curiously as he stared at Katara with a small smile.
- - -
"It's no secret that you think I'm gorgeous," Sokka commented loudly as he gently touched his wolf tail a top his head. Appa groaned in a disgruntled manner before quickly stepping away from Sokka. He immediately gaped as Aang's flying bison quickly moved his way from one side of the clearing to the other; therefore avoiding Sokka.
"Oh come on," Sokka hollered, "I know you think I look good," Sokka instantly chuckled in a cocky manner before looking down to his bare chest and belly; only to be completely dissatisfied. He quickly let his eyes bug slightly as he placed one hand on his stomach.
"O-okay okay…Maybe I need to cut down on the food just a little…" Sokka said quietly as he blushed with embarrassment, "I'm going to be seeing Kiari sometime soon… " He continued as he sat down near his burlap bag; he then grabbed piece of the left over meat he had 'bought' yesterday. He took a big bite out of it before continuing to little Kaimah next to him.
"I mean," Sokka started with his mouth full, "I don't want her thinking I'm some sort of slob or nothing."
Kaimah chirped softly before she quickly began to cavort over to where Appa was. Sokka gaped again, only this time to have a piece of food fall from his lips.
"Hey! What, is it me?" Sokka questioned as he stood. He stared at the two animals across the way. Sokka let his shoulders slump in defeat as heaved a long sigh.
"I think I'm turning into Katara…" Sokka started as he looked about; he nervously took a deep breath before continuing, "Now I'm fat," He said loudly. He quickly shook his head and looked about.
"Ahg, keep it together Sokka," He said to himself as Momo quickly perched himself on his shoulder; Sokka smiled, "Hey, Momo, you'll help me out, won't you?"
"Mmrr?" Momo muttered in his little language; he cocked his head as Sokka nodded.
"Thanks Momo, I always knew there was some good in you," Sokka smiled before, all at once, Momo leaped from Sokka's shoulder and took the juicy meat from Sokka's hands. He instantly gaped as the little winged lemur began to flap about the clearing.
"Momo!" Sokka hollered as he quickly began to chase after the little lemur who seemingly teased Sokka; he flew about the clearing, just above Sokka's head. Sokka scrambled about, attempting to get the meat from Momo's little paws but to no avail. Momo dangled the food above Sokka, making him work for it.
"That's not fair! C-come on," Sokka said as he jumped a little, "I-if you give it to me M-Momo…I-I'll share it with yah!" Sokka smiled, hoping to bring the lemur down from the air with his food. Momo chirped and only flapped himself higher above Sokka.
"That is the last time I pretend you're a god and give you berries!"
- - -
"A-A kiss?" Aang asked with a small, sheepish smile; a gentle blush accented his cheeks. Katara nodded and looked down with a bashful smile.
"I-I…saw one of the Hibiscuses on the way in here because…Hinadi licked my cheek," Katara giggled as she scrunched her shoulders; she instantly felt her heart flutter gently before she continued, "I-I'd love to see more, they're really beautiful, Aang." Katara was somewhat disappointed to see Aang point out to the lake and immediately change the subject.
"I-I didn't know Hinadi could swim," Aang said loudly, clearing avoiding the romantic topic. Katara raised one eye brow and glanced at Hinadi, not worrying about whether the rambunctious Shirlakoi could swim or not.
"Aang," Katara said softly, in an annoyed tone.
"No wonder her paws are webbed," Aang chuckled. Katara shook her head and was now confused.
"She has webbed paws?" Katara questioned before she quickly shooed the thought away; she sighed loudly, "Aang, why are you ignoring m-"
"-and those rubbery scales up her front legs," Aang smiled as he avoided eye contact with Katara; Hinadi slowly approached in the water, feeling strange vibes from Katara and Aang.
"Aang," Katara said firmly, getting a little angry.
"Her long tail acts like a flipper when she moves through the-" Aang was immediately interrupted as Koda, who was down below Aang, harshly squirt water in his face; therefore getting him to stop talking. Aang coughed slightly and shook his head free of water. Katara quickly, yet gently, grabbed Aang's jaw and forced him to look at her.
"Aang," Katara chuckled at the funny sight before her; the dripping wet monk who was now in her firm grasp. She gently let go of him after a moment, now knowing she had his full attention. Aang heaved a soft sigh and looked down to his lap, feeling a bit overwhelmed. Katara lovingly placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Aang, what's the matter?" Katara started softly before she immediately frowned, "Y-you don't want to kiss me?" Katara questioned quietly, feeling a bit embarrassed all of the sudden. Aang quickly looked up, noting the hurt look on her face; he quickly attempted to recover the situation.
"No, that's not it at all," Aang started softly.
"Is it because we're in a cave? You know, you did this to me last time, I'll never forget the cave of Omashu," Katara said as she eyed Aang, wondering if this were a pattern of some sort.
"No, that's not it either," Aang sighed softly, feeling his face heat up; memories of this morning instantly came flooding back to him, and he knew he couldn't take his mind off of it. He didn't want to kiss Katara if other things were on his mind; he felt as if that wasn't fair to her or himself.
"…Is it because of this morning?" Katara questioned softly; Aang instantly looked up with a bashful frown as his cheeks reddened. He then sighed and nodded slowly before looking down. With this, Katara giggled quietly and gently gripped Aang's warm hands in hers.
"I could tell you were nervous about feeding Kaimah," Katara smiled; Aang kept his head bowed, feeling totally humiliated. He managed a small nod, however, before Katara continued, "Aang, she's just a cub, and you were doing fine, I don't see what the problem was," Katara giggled softly.
"I-it's not Kaimah," Aang said quietly as he gently caught a glimpse of Katara's eyes.
"Then, what's this all about?" Katara questioned as she gave Aang's hands a gentle, assuring squeeze, "You can tell me anything, Aang…Talk to me," she smiled. Aang let a small smile play across his face before he heaved a gentle sigh.
"Y-You saw the way I was holding her," Aang started softly, "A-and feeding her…I-It just reminded me of h-holding…holding -"
"A baby?" Katara interrupted with a small smile as she leaned down somewhat, to look into Aang's eyes. Aang heaved a long sigh and looked down, feeling his stomach twist and churn all of the sudden.
"I-I…couldn't help myself…" Aang said softly as he averted his gaze elsewhere. Katara giggled suddenly, causing Aang to frown.
"Aang, I don't know why you act as if you're guilty of something," Katara smiled as she gently shook on Aang's hands. Aang looked up, somewhat surprised. He cocked his head slightly.
"I-I…"
"Aang, thinking about that type of stuff is normal," Katara smiled, Aang let a small smile creep its way across his features.
"I-it is?" Aang questioned, Katara nodded with a big, eager smile.
"Of course," She said happily before it instantly hit her; Aang grew up learning that he was forbidden to love, to marry, or even have a family. She now knew why he was acting so strange. She instantly frowned and stared at Aang before continuing, "But…I guess you've learned otherwise,"
"Yeah," Aang admitted, feeling ashamed. Katara smiled and shook her head.
"Don't think that way, Aang," Katara started before she heaved a soft sigh, "It's normal to think about all this stuff…A loved one, a future…A family one day," Katara blushed and smiled in a bashful way; as did Aang. Katara slowly began to stand up and she gently brought Aang up with her.
"It was considered a sin to us monks…A-as well as having hair," Aang mumbled as he looked away, "But, I've learned so much from the hundred year time span…If I would've stayed at the Airtemples…I-I would've never known what it was like to love; to plan for the future…" Aang sighed softly and looked Katara square in the eyes, "I-I would've never known you…"
Katara smiled big, feeling her heart flutter and swell with love for the boy in front of her.
"A-and now I know what it's like to love someone so much and…not have to worry about what the monks have said, it's just…" Aang trailed off and nibbled his lip softly as Katara gently tightened her grip on his hands. He continued softly, "I-I'm just not used to…actually being able to choose who it is I love, who I want to marry…If I want a…family in the future, o-or who I want it with…" Aang mumbled as Katara's smile only grew.
"Not being a monk has its up's, huh," Katara smiled a big, cheerful smile towards Aang, knowing very well where this was going.
"Yeah," Aang smiled as he nibbled his lip and bashfully looked down.
"I'll help you feed Kaimah her dinner tonight, if you'd like," Katara smiled, feeling her face gently heat up. Aang looked up and smiled a happy smile, more than eager to learn; especially from Katara.
"Of course," Aang said with a charming smile. Just as Katara was about to ramble further about the topic, Koda cut her off.
"Just kiss him, already," Koda said loudly, getting a bit impatient, as he quickly swam to deeper waters; he then emitted a burst of air from his blow hole, therefore letting it mist into the calm, damp cave air. Hinadi splashed about in the water, noting the foggy display above her. Katara giggled and stared at Aang; he cocked his head.
"What?" Aang questioned with a small, confused smile; he then turned his head to look at the pretty dolphins from a far before continuing, "What did he say?"
Katara giggled softly with a small smile as she gently let her hand meet Aang's soft cheek; she tenderly pushed on him so that the two were face to face. She then slowly drew Aang into a soft and tender kiss; Aang gently returned the sweet gesture as he instinctively draped his arms around Katara's lower waist. As if it were on cue. All was calm, the two gently continued to kiss their cares away; that is until Hinadi was heard, emitting playful neighs and chirps here and there as well as making a splash.
With this, Katara gently pulled away from Aang for a moment; their eyes locked onto each others, a calm, glowing aura was present. Katara smiled a big smile and quickly looked about, only to be ever so shocked to see what looked to be thousands, if not, millions of the beautiful, blue glowing Hibiscus. They lined the cave walls and ceilings; there were even some present under the pretty, clear water they stood near. Katara gasped softly and pressed herself closer to Aang; she gently laid one hand on his chest as she seemingly snuggled closer to him.
Aang let his jaw drop as his arms gently came around Katara's back and shoulders. He smiled as the two lovers looked about with much enthusiasm.
"Wow," Aang breathed softly as he hugged Katara tighter. Katara giggled softly and ever so gently gave Aang a small kiss on his lower cheek, just under his jaw line.
"What did I tell yah," Katara said ever so softly into his ear with a smile. Aang nodded slowly and looked at Katara with a cheerful smile.
"It's amazing," Aang said softly, still in awe as he gently glanced about. Katara nodded in agreement as she joined him, letting her eyes savor every single moment of seeing the beautiful, blue flowers a glow.
"They're so beautiful, aren't they?" Katara smiled as she looked up to the cave ceiling; Aang's eyes instantly fell onto Katara. He smiled a charming smile and took a calm, deep breath as he could feel his cheeks heat up.
"Yes," He started as Katara gently averted her gaze to the airbender she held close; he continued with a smile, "You are."
Katara let her eyes widen slightly at his sweet words; she nibbled her lip slightly and before she knew it, Aang gently pulled into yet another searing kiss. He ever so gently pressed his lips to Katara's, giving her a passionate, heart melting kiss he hoped she'd never forget. He gently tightened his grip around his love as he let his hands gentle caress her soft and smooth bare skin, he savored the very feeling of his body and lips against hers. He instantly smiled as the two gently began to give each other small pecks on the lips; Katara couldn't find any right moment to pull away from Aang. She ever so softly began to giggle, knowing all too well his and her love would only grow stronger and stronger on this crazy journey they were on; how she loved the rush. It only made her push closer to Aang as she pleased him with small, gentle kisses; she smiled as she could feel her cheeks redden.
She smiled at her thoughts and gently wrapped her arms tight around Aang's neck and bare, broad shoulders before giving him one last, gentle kiss on the lips. She then bashfully smiled, feeling satisfied as she hugged Aang endearingly close to her. She gently gazed into his eyes; they glistened with the calm, blue shining light around the two that the beautiful Hibiscus flowers gave off, surprisingly.
In no time, the beautiful black and white dolphins began to leap out of the water with much joy; they reached great heights in the air before quickly plummeting back down to the surface of the cold water; sending the crystal element in every direction. It glistened magnificently with the gentle lighting of the cave. They continued to do this for quiet some time, acting as if seeing the gorgeous flowers was something new to them; Hinadi joined in too, she flapped her wings about in the water, as well as her front paws. She neighed loudly with all the joy in the world as they played; and as the cause of their upheaval held each other endearingly close in a loving embrace.
- - -
"Fine!" Sokka breathed loudly as he plopped down on Appa's saddle; he waved in hand in the air before continuing, "You win, Momo…" Momo instantly chirped with happiness as he quickly began to eat the strip of food he was teasing Sokka with. Kaimah slowly strolled over to Sokka; she chirped in a sad manner as her little ears drooped slightly. She put on her best pitiful act in order to get Sokka to feed her.
"Hey, if I can't enjoy my food right now than neither can you," Sokka chuckled as he pointed to the little cub; she chirped a small, high pitched little chirp in the most pitiful and sad way; Sokka frowned and laid on his stomach; he faced small Kaimah.
"I-I'm sorry Kaimah," Sokka mumbled as he rested his chin in his hands; his elbows supported his arms up, "I'm too pooped to do anything right now."
"When are you ever not?" Came a familiar voice from behind. Sokka quickly rolled over and noticed Aang, calmly standing on Appa's head with a small, happy smile.
"Hey, no one said you could talk," Sokka pointed as he chuckled aloud. Katara quickly joined Aang on Appa's head with a small laugh.
The two teens quickly joined Sokka on Appa's saddle with smiles. Sokka quickly eyed the two teens, knowing all too well they were gone all day doing who knows what; it was close to nightfall and small stars had already dotted the sky.
"Where have you two been?" Sokka suddenly asked as he sat up; Aang gently took a seat next to him with a smile.
"Oh, Sokka you should've seen it!" Katara suddenly gasped as she waved her hands in the air a little; she quickly grew excited as she took a seat next to her brother. She then continued, "There were these black and white dolphins, and one of them, Koda, told me that there was a secret about the cave that we were in."
"Dolphins in a cave, how believable," Sokka laughed loudly; Katara quickly glared at him and smirked before shaking her head.
"Oh, you're just so hilarious," Katara said quickly. Aang instantly laughed.
"It's true," Aang chuckled as he looked at Sokka, "There was a large lake with dolphins that lived there."
"-and the secret about the cave was that-" Katara was cut off.
"How can the dolphins see? Wasn't it like…really dark?" Sokka questioned loudly, Aang butt in before Katara could speak.
"Well, dolphins have this thing called sonar vision, they can see things by little noises that they make," Aang said as a matter of factly, he then shook his head in a confused manner, "b-but, the lake gave off a pretty light, so we could see just fine."
"Th-the secret of the Hibiscus was the best p-" Katara was cut off, yet again.
"The lake was glowing?" Sokka questioned loudly as he perked up, "I have to see this place."
"Yeah, it was pretty cool…There was also this-" Aang was interrupted.
"My favorite part was the Hibiscus," Katara said all at once, hoping to get her share in the conversation. Aang chuckled softly with an apologetic smile. Sokka chuckled and looked at his sister in a bewildered manner.
"There were flowers too?" He laughed; Katara nodded eagerly.
"Yeah," she instantly blushed, "Only true loves' kiss could reveal the secret of the Hibiscus cave," she concluded bashfully. Sokka instantly tilted his head back a little and rolled his eyes. He then croaked a long, dry sigh.
"Oh geez, lemme guess," he mumbled. Aang chuckled and rubbed the back of his head before Kaimah slowly moseyed her way into his lap. Sokka continued, "Hinadi got extremely excited and began slobbering all over you two."
"That's exactly what happened, Sokka," Katara said sarcastically in mono-tone; Sokka shrugged and slowly stood before moseying off of Appa's saddle. He then wandered over to Hinadi, who had settled down some after having her fill on food.
Katara rolled her eyes before she quickly averted her gaze to Aang, who was across Appa's saddle. He was gently stroking Kaimah's fur with a little smile on his face; the little cub instantly sprawled herself comfortably in his lap. Katara nibbled her lip with a smile before she quickly headed for her burlap bag; which was next to where Sokka was sitting a minute ago.
She quickly began to rummage through it before she quickly found Kaimah's formula. She mixed it with a smile, shaking the small bottle she held, which was Kaimah's dinner. She then quickly took a seat next to Aang with an eager smile.
"You ready?" Katara asked Aang as she made herself comfortable next to him; Aang gave her a bewildered look.
"What?"
"Don't tell me you forgot," Katara giggled as she set Kaimah's bottle down; she then gently picked the little cub up and rearranged her in Aang's arms, just like this morning, although Aang seemed relaxed this time around.
"Oh," Aang said, a little surprised, as he carefully cradled the young cub he held. He smiled as Katara handed him Kaimah's bottle. He took it, feeling a bit nervous but he felt relieved that Katara was with him. Katara gently hoisted Kaimah's head up a little before leaning closer to Aang.
"Remember, just like an infant," Katara reminded with a smile as Aang gently began to feed Kaimah her warm milk. Aang nodded with a small smile.
"Am I doing okay?" Aang questioned somewhat nervously, Katara grinned and pressed herself closer to him and little Kaimah. She heaved a little sigh before staring at little Kaimah in Aang's arms.
"Perfect."
A/N:Well, there you are guys! Lol, this one's longer than chapter fourteen xD I think from here on out my chapters are going to be pretty long…So, yeah lol
The main reason why I made this one long is because I don't think I'm going to be able to do really speedy updates until the beginning of August. I'm currently doing online summer school, to catch up on credits, and it's getting in the way of being able to just type my story. BUT if I don't post a chapter up within two to three weeks, you guys know my e-mail…Just start yelling at me if you want me to update and I'll be encouraged x) (Katara1991aol .com) …you can also e-mail me if you wanna see Vyntresser pictures… I'm always drawing or painting, and once I get my camera back from my friend, I can show you guys.
I'm all over the place lately xD I just recently got a deviant art account, I will be putting up my pictures once I get the chance but…like I said, I need my camera…I wish I had a scanner oO but anyways, I have one picture I actually took, it's a photo, on my deviant art account. If you wanna check that out, my penname there is 'VyntresserDrake1991' :) Come check it out! Don't forget my youtube account also.
Sadly, I don't have the next chapter planned all too thoroughly, but I have the main 'plot'…Just need a little fillers, you know? Lol, so…Like I said, two or three weeks and if I don't come back it…means I died from school work or…I'm just too lazy…Which is your guys' cue to yell angry words and toss things at me oO
Just thought I'd let you guys know :) Please! Lemme know how you all felt about this chapter, and yes, one of my all time favorite animals is the 'Commerson's dolphin' or, the black and white dolphins you read about :) Be on the lookout for them in the future:)
I seriously think this chapter had the most foreshadowing than any chapter I've ever written…It's almost too painful to write oO but, I'm putting it up anyways… lol, I really hope you guys enjoyed it! Please review, lemme know what you thought :)
Thanks to the select few of you who e-mailed me and liked my picture; I really appreciate it!
- Katara -
Mohalo ;)