Leaves in the Wind

by Livlane02

Its been 8 years since Zuko was crowned Fire Lord. He is busy a man ruling a country and helping build a new city. Zuko, thought he had no time for romance, no matter how pressing his council was. Until a mysterious young woman shows up, disturbing his set routine, forcing the lonely Fire Lord to befriend her. But, neither thought friendship would turn to love.

2. Chapter 2

Chapter 2

"You certainly have been quiet since we entered the Capital. What bothers you, Aya?" Dad inquired in his usual direct manner. I had hoped he wouldn't notice, but I should have known he would. He always has been able to easily read me. My light brown eyes met his darker ones in an even stare.

"After I accepted the position, Iroh sent me a letter stating I was not to mention the assassin I intercepted, the family and Fire Lord know nothing of it." I paused, studying his face for a reaction and found none, which didn't surprise me. "I'm sure you know, that I will be working in secret to uncover who sent the assassin."

"I do."

"Well, what worries me, Dad, is the Fire Lord's reaction when he learns of what has been kept him."

"I see. I wouldn't worry Aya, I'm sure Iroh knows what he's doing."

"I hope so," I muttered quietly to myself. I've never been frightened by any one particular person and I'm definitely not now, but I am a bit apprehensive. I mean there has to be some kind of punishment for not alerting the ruler of a country that his family and himself are in danger. Oh, I can just see it now...Kneeling, head bowed, on the cold dark floor, surrounded by a high scorching wall of fire. Through the flames is a silhouette of a man coming forward. The only thing prominent about him is the golden crown glistening in the midst of the flames. "Take her to the dungeon!" the deep voice of the man rings out; echoing in the vast room. No trial. Only direct sentencing.

"We're here." Dad's cool voice snapped me out of my wildly imaginative daydream. I must have been wearing a peculiar expression for he shot me a wondering look.

A guard chooses, this time, to pull aside the curtain covering the window, checking passes, which he examined with such scrutiny, one would think it held his life's purpose. The guard, handed the passes back, the curtain resettling with his swift departure. In a matter of moments, we stopped once again. To fight the autumn chill, I quickly slung my deep purple cloak around my shoulders. Dad stepped out first; offering his hand to me in assistance and I was grateful. Normally, I would have bounded out of the carriage. But, with the combination of the tight dress, flowing sleeves, a cloak that trailed behind me, and the dainty slippers covering my feet; that offered no traction whatsoever. If not for his help I mostly likely would have ended up in a most ungraceful heap of fabric. I couldn't help but chuckle; the thought produced a rather funny scenario. Master in weaponry and knowledgeable of multiple fighting techniques, taken down by a measly dress. I focused my eyes on the ground, grasping his hand, while carefully stepping down. When looking up my jaw dropped at the sight of the absolute grandeur and sheer size of the Palace looming before me.

I by no means lived in a small home. The villagers of Shu Jing even referred to it as a castle. It may be big but it was nothing this flamboyant. The Palace was built to show the prosperity and power of the nation. Whereas Dad had built our home for peace and seclusion from a once violent land. I managed to pull myself out of awe-struck gazing to follow Dad up the endless stairs to where Iroh was patiently waiting.

"Aya, thank you for accepting the position," The grey-bearded man welcomed with a warm smile that instantly had some of my uneasiness fading. "You will have quite an eager student."

"I am honored to have been asked and look forward to teaching her." Though having not ever taught before, I was more than happy too. Hopefully, I will prove to be a good and patient instructor just like my father had been when he taught me the ways of the sword. I'll strive to never ever be like Hiro. She was the woman who taught me archery and she really wasn't much of a teacher. You watched and you learned, very little advice was given. I was lucky that unlike the swords, archery came naturally to me.

"Piandao, my friend, it has been far too long!"

"That it has," Dad readily agreed.

Iroh grinned, mischief dancing in his amber eyes. "I wish we had time for a rematch. You are one of the few people to have bested me at Pai Sho. But, alas there are more pressing matters at hand. Fire Lord Zuko is welcoming you to the Palace with a tea ceremony. If you would please follow me." He gestured with a flourish of his hand toward the massive doors of the entry.

I ignored Dad and Iroh's casual conversation, instead, I focused on my surroundings. It would be best to familiarize myself before I begin my late night escapades. A task that may prove to be difficult; when considering all the servants bustling around and guards dutifully keeping their post.

Finally, we arrived at our destination, Iroh, slid open the door, letting me enter first. It was a beautiful room, with windows stretching from ceiling to floor. Letting the afternoon sunlight pour in and offered an amazing view of the autumn foliage of the trees in the surrounding garden.

"Fire Lord Zuko had a meeting with his council, so he may be late." I heard Iroh explain from behind me.

"A ruler is never tardy; we are simply early." A small smile pulled at my lips. That was Dad's way of saying we don't mind the wait.

"May I take your cloak, Lady Aya?" an older woman with gray streaking her dark hair appeared suddenly at my side.

This would be one of the numerous things I'm positive will take time becoming accustomed to. Dad always preferred privacy so the only servant of the house was Fat and he is like family. I slipped the cloak from my shoulders and handed it to the woman, smiling in appreciation.

"Thank you."

"You are most welcome; I'll be sure that it's put away with the rest of your belongings."

No, sooner had the woman exited using the servant's door was the main one abruptly pushed aside, revealing the tall and broad-shouldered form of the Fire Lord. This was my first up-close look at the man; having only seen drawings. I did a swift sweep of his features, starting at the ink black hair pulled into a top-knot, where his five prong headpiece proudly rested, reflecting the light. Just like in the pictures the comet-shaped scar marred his left eye leaving it permanently narrowed. He had a straight and regal nose, his lips downturned into a frown and a defined jaw. Even in his heavy, formal attire, I could tell he was a muscular man. Needless to say, he cut a very imposing figure. Upon glancing back up, I stifled a gasp to see his intent golden eyes settled on me. Forgetting myself for a brief moment I brazenly met his gaze. His eyes gained in intensity, tilting his head slightly to the side, as if intrigued, all the while his expression remained impassive. It was my Father softly clearing his throat that knocked me out of my entrancement to realize that I dared to have a starring contest with the Fire Lord and that I was the only one in the room not bowing. I dropped my eyes immediately, head low, trying my best to make a graceful recovery.

"Master Piandao, I welcome you to the Palace." The Fire Lord spoke, in a pleasing baritone. He bowed his head and made a fist with his other hand straight up on top, in the act of respect. The action didn't surprise me, I knew Dad had trained him with the broadswords, it would have been considered dishonorable of him to not pay a master the proper respect of his station, especially to one whom you learned under.

"I thank you, your Majesty," Dad placed his hand on my shoulder. "Lord Zuko, allow me to introduce my daughter, Lady Aya."

The Fire Lord's eyes met mine yet again. "Welcome, Lady Aya. You may consider the Palace your home for as long as you stay."

"Thank you. I am most honored, my Lord." I replied keeping my tone soft.

"Shall we?" Lord Zuko asked, gesturing toward the table. The men sat comfortably with their legs crossed, while I had to sit on mine like a proper lady always should. Not that I have ever actually abided by that rule before now. Everyone watched while a man with a long braid began distributing precise amounts of green powder into the delicately designed cups. Iroh looked excited, Dad was relaxed as usual, and the Fire Lord's expression was- well blank. I strived for the same disinterest, when what I really wanted to do was grimace in disgust. I hate green tea.

"Master Piandao, I am glad you decided to accompany your daughter." Fire Lord spoke first, as is customary, otherwise, my father informed me that one would wait in silence until he had the urge to speak.

"I wish I could stay longer. But, sadly I have a previous engagement." My ears perked up at the word engagement, he never mentioned business. It must have something do with The Order. I quickly glanced in Iroh's direction, to see him eyeing the orangish yellow leaf shaped wagashi. Hmmm. It's hard always hard to know with the retired General.

The Fire Lord nodded, "I understand. But, do hope you will stay long enough for a friendly spar."

Dad grinned, "For a former pupil, always, Lord Zuko."

"I'm looking forward to it. I haven't had the chance of a good one in months." His lips twitched, then straightened back into a stern line. "Thank you, Chan, that is all." He dismissed the servant after our cup were filled. Once the Fire Lord had taken the first bite of his wagashi cake. I happily began eating mine, delighting in the sweet confectionary. It is supposed to help with the bitterness of the tea.

"For some green tea is an acquired taste. But, I have always found it refreshing." Iroh grinned, eyes cutting to the Fire Lord. Being respectful I forced myself to take a dainty sip of the horrible concoction. It took all my willpower not to spew the extremely detestable liquid on the brilliant black lacquered table.

"Aya, what do you think of the tea?" Dad asked, his eyes dancing in amusement. Traitor.

Struggling for words that would not offend the Fire Lord, who practically already emptied his cup with two gulps. "It is very… interesting." Iroh's brows rose, increasing the wrinkles of his forehead.

"Well, I must agree with Iroh, I've always felt rejuvenated after a cup," Dad said, him and Iroh both slowly sipping theirs, savoring it, probably. Well, more power to them. I don't care at this point how rude it is not to drink it. I'm not! I think it would be more disrespectful, not to mention embarrassing, for me to empty the contents of my stomach. Which very well may happen if I take another sip.

Suddenly the door slid opened for a young raven haired woman, "Forgive me for the interruption your Highness, but Avatar Aang is here."

Fire Lord Zuko's eyebrow rose, it was the only real expression he has truly made in my presence thus far. "Please show him to my study."

After the Fire Lord excused himself, Iroh and Dad went off to enjoy a game Pai Sho, while I was lead to my accommodations, by the same woman who took my cloak.

"What part of the Palace are we in?" I questioned, furtively trying to not become lost.

"We are in the east wing," she came to a stop at the last door of many down the corridor, gesturing for me to enter first. "This is the sitting room, you also have an attached washroom and private balcony."

I nodded taking in the scarlet painted walls with shiny dark wooden floors, a long white settee lined with golden cushions took up the majority of one wall. Fresh fruit sat in a bowl on the low table and a fire already on the hearth. It was an elegantly arranged room, thankfully nothing gaudy. I peeked into the bedroom to see an intricately designed wrought iron bed covered in the lightest of red decorative pillows with of course golden bedding. I could see my clothing already hanging in the wardrobe, my combs, and brushes sitting on the vanity. The heavy black case for my archery gear had been placed in front of a changing screen and my katana in its sheath sat on the simple desk in the corner. It felt a little odd having strangers putting away my things, for I always did my own unpacking.

"Is everything to your liking?" I jumped at the sound of her voice having forgotten the silent woman.

"Yes, it's perfect," I assured, sitting on the settee.

"Wonderful. Eiko will be your personal servant, she will come before dinner. In the meantime, I will assist you, should you wish it."

"No, I don't believe I will need anything. But, thank you…?"

"Lin."

I smiled, "Lin, I'm sorry for not inquiring sooner."

"I understand, Lady Aya, the Palace can be overwhelming."

Once she left I allowed myself to flop back into the silk cushions, heaving a deep sigh. If only I didn't have dinner in two hours, I thought regretfully, I would be trading this dress for pants in a heartbeat. A sudden knock had my head turning toward the door. Must be the servant, I don't even need a one! What am I to have her do?

"Come in," I called, sitting up and preparing to send her politely away. "Dad." I said confused, "I thought you and Iroh would be playing for a while."

He entered shutting the door, "Lord Zuko sent for him. But, that's alright for I'd much rather spend time with my daughter."

I crossed my arms, "Yeah, well I don't know if she wants to spend time with you." Deepening my voice, I mocked, "What do you think of the tea?"

He chuckled, walking up to the table to get a handful of grapes which he gave to me, only keeping two for himself. "That will take the taste away."

Eagerly I tossed one in my mouth, no longer worried about manners, "So, about this engagement; is it with The Order?"

In no hurry, Dad walked around examining the room and peeking out the sheer white curtain covering the windows. "Did you know autumn is my favorite time of year? I much prefer the crisp air to the stifling heat."

I stop chewing for a second at his unusual evasive manner, that was Iroh's way, not my unfailing blunt Father. "I do too. But, spring is my favorite time." He nodded his head absently going back to the table to clean out the rest of my grapes. I've always tried to never press him for information, but he's acting so strange. "Dad, are you meeting with Jeong Jeong?" I rephrased the question. Jeong Jeong was one of many, very many in the Order, he could have been meeting with anyone.

"No, Aya." He came forward kissing my forehead, "I must go. I will stop by on my way home." Standing I followed him to the door, feeling perplexed and a tad hurt. Dad pulled me into an embrace. "Be safe, daughter. I love you to the moon and back." He pulled away, smiling warmly.

I grinned, he always told me that when I was little and he would leave on business. "I love you too. Have a safe journey to wherever you're off to…?" I trailed off, raising a brow.

"I will." Dad didn't smile, but I could see he was amused by my antics. He softly closed the door, leaving me alone in the silent room. Well, he is definitely up to something. I shrugged my shoulders. Oh, well. If it does concern the Order I will eventually find out one way or another. I settled myself back onto the settee, but for now, I'm going to enjoy this small time of relaxation, before attending, what I'm sure will be a tense dinner, at least for me that is.

Zuko

I watched intently as Aang read the letter from the Earth King. "Well," he drawled from where he stood by the window, of my study. "King Kiue isn't going to make this easy, is he?"

I leaned back in my chair, "He is always unfailing hard to negotiate with. Especially when it evolves me."

"Maybe in three months at the World Summit you can try again." The now tall and lanky man plopped down in one of the two chairs across from my desk. At times it is hard to believe this is the same goofy twelve-year-old kid, I trained in fire bending.

"Aang, I hated to bother you with this," I gestured to the letter in his hand, "I'm sure Katara doesn't appreciate you being called away so soon after the honeymoon."

"My wife understands," his expression becoming dreamy and I knew I had momentarily lost his attention, he was still floating in the cloud, abruptly he straightened, eyes comically widening. "Zuko, I've got to tell you something. I was told not to say anything yet, but I've got to tell somebody!" I raised a brow watching Aang look as if he could bounce right off his seat. "I'm going to be Father!"

To most this would be surprising, they have only been wed for a couple months. But, I had a feeling it would happen sooner rather than later given Katara's motherly nature and Aang's love for children. Before I had the chance to congratulate him, Uncle came waltzing through the door. "Congratulations!" He jovially patted the bewildered avatar on the back. "I heard at the door and you can trust my nephew and me not to breathe a word of this to anyone."

"Congratulations, Aang." I offered more subdued than my Uncle, although no less genuine.

"Thank you both," He smiled widely, "Katara and I are so excited."

"Parenthood is a joy like no other." Uncle's smile held a twinge of sadness. I knew he was thinking of Lu Ten, but he brightened considerably when glancing my way. "I just wonder how long Zuko is going to make me wait for a grand niece or nephew." He and I both knew he meant grandchild. Uncle Iroh has been more of Father to me than Ozai ever was.

Aang laughed loudly, "He has to get married first."

"Does Katara have an estimate of when the baby will be born?" I questioned, all too eager to change the subject.

"Yes, by mid-summer."

"Has Katara experienced any morning sickness?" Uncle asked.

Aang gave a firm nod, his face becoming serious. "She has been so sick and exhausted; that's why she didn't travel with me."

"I will send you with some tea that should help."

"Oh, thank you Iroh! I know Katara will be grateful."

Uncle sat in the other chair beside Aang, "this is all very exciting, but I do believe I was called for another reason."

"Yes," I cleared my throat glad to be getting back to business, not that I didn't want to talk about the baby. But, if I were being completely honest, I really did not want the conversation to turn back to my social life or lack thereof. "I am having the land around the colonies surveyed." Aang looked taken aback, so I hurried to finish my point. "So, that when the matter is presented to the King Kiue he can know the exact amount of land we are asking for."

"Zuko, what if the King hears of you having his lands surveyed; land that he already declined to you," Aang asked worriedly, I was happy to not see anger on my friend's face, I really wanted to have him onboard with this.

"The man I hired promised discretion," I spoke the words with all the indifference I could muster. I wouldn't have dared to tell Aang that my surveyor was his brother-in-law. No, I believe it's best to keep Sokka out of the conversation, entirely. It's unnecessary information anyway, I justified to myself.

"That may be, Nephew. But, the King will know what you have done when you ask for the land."

"Zuko, he will see this as you trying to steal what is the Earth Kingdom's."

My thumb and forefinger pinched the bridge of my nose in frustration, I worked hard to keep from growling. "I am not trying to steal land. An expansion would benefit all nations!"

"I agree." Uncle nodded, "But, you know how the Earth King is."

"He acts like a child." I snapped.

"I know he can be difficult," Aang defended, "but during the war he was terribly misguided and deceived, so now he is wary of all."

I didn't feel sorry for him, what transpired during the war was his own fault for being so utterly naïve and inattentive. He had been happy to live a life of carefree luxury while the commoners of his kingdom suffered. "The surveyor will report to me in a fortnight. I will tread lightly when I present this opportunity to the King at the World Summit."

Aang stood shaking his head, "You're still so stubborn. I hope all ends well." Knowing the discussion had come to a close I came to stand beside my desk. We gripped forearms, a move Aang picked up from Sokka. "I cannot pick sides; I must remain neutral unless absolutely necessary."

I inclined my head solemnly, "I understand."

"I must leave now if I am to be at the South Pole and make it to the World Summit."

"I'll meet you at the stables with the tea for Katara," Uncle called over his shoulder already out the door.

Aang grabbed his glider from the corner, "I hope you're not angry with me Zuko."

I sighed, "Aang, I truly do understand. I know you have to be diplomatic." I offered a small smile, "I'll walk you out the Palace." Ignoring the ridiculous panic that arose telling me to grab a sheet of paper and brush, and send for the swiftest hawk I could find, so I could write a frenzied warning of extreme caution to Sokka. Instead, I leisurely walked beside Aang in comfortable silence.

"So," Aang's tone becoming mischievous, "still no girlfriend, huh?"

I repressed the urge to literally breath fire. It's official I have no peace! "No," I answered tersely. During the eight years of my reign, I learned to keep a level head, the days of angry outbursts were long over.

"I wouldn't worry Zuko," I threw a disgruntled look toward him. Who said I was worried? Aang ignored my expression and continued on with a big grin. "One day you will open your eyes and there she will be."

"Yeah, can't wait," I drawled sarcastically, "sounds romantic."

"Oh, it will be. Who knows maybe I will be attending your wedding soon."

I scoffed, "Doubtful. Besides, I don't have the time it requires to properly court a woman."

Aang became serious, "Zuko I know your responsibilities weigh heavily on you, but take time for yourself." Aang let out a deep breath with a tired smile, "Believe me I know it's hard."

My lips twitched upward in a slight smile, our duties always came first over our personal lives. A burden we were both born to carry.