During her travels with Aang, Katara had learned that protecting the Avatar meant she had to sacrifice many things.
Like, bathing, for example.
After all, when there was always someone after their heads, it wasn't exactly easy to find time to relax.
But Katara managed to adjust, and seized the few opportunities she had the bathe without complaint. Even a few minutes in a shallow, icy river was cherished, because no one knew how long it would be until they found another place to wash-up.
So when Katara had found a small lake, she happily accepted the chance to freshen up. The lake was in a secluded area, completely safe from the Fire Nation, and the water was cleaner than any she'd seen for weeks. In short, it was the perfect place to take her long awaited bath.
Except, a certain prince was already occupying the area.
Last Katara had heard, Zuko had gone back to the Fire Nation with Azula, and was currently enjoying the life of royalty. So what in spirit's name was he doing here?
Apparently, he was bathing.
At first, Katara had thought she should leave him in peace and find somewhere else to wash up. But before she could leave, her stubbornness kicked in. She had waited an entire week to take a bath, and now she had found the perfect place to do so! No way was she going to give that up just because some pig-headed prince was there!
So she hid behind a tree and waited. And while she waited, she watched Zuko.
Upon further inspection, Katara noticed two things. One: Zuko's hair had grown quite a bit since she'd last seen him, and two: Zuko was a very thorough bather.
The young prince seemed quite intent on scrubbing every inch of his pale skin, taking his dear time while doing so. Which only succeeded in angering Katara more. Honestly, who spends five minutes washing invisible dirt off their arm? She contemplated freezing him where he stood, waist deep in water, but quickly realized he was a firebender and her amusement would be short lived.
So she continued to watch. And as she watched, it didn't occur to her that Zuko was naked. Because of this, it took her a little too long to realize that she should avert her gaze as he stepped out of the water.
Feeling heat rise to her face as she saw more of Zuko than she bargained for, Katara quickly turned her back to the lake. Staring in the opposite direction, she listened to the rustling of clothes that signaled Zuko was redressing himself. Katara didn't turn back to the lake until she heard his footsteps fade away, unsure she could look at him without fainting or screaming.
After ensuring that the prince had left the area, Katara stepped out from behind her tree and walked over to the lake. Once closer, she saw a small amount of steam rising from its surface. Apparently, Zuko preferred to bathe in hot water.
After staring at the steaming water for a few moments, Katara silently turned and left, her desire for a bath having vanished. Somehow, she doubted she'd be able to relax after what she'd just seen.
Author's Notes: Blahh... I had a lot of trouble getting this one worded properly, and I'm still not sure I got it the way I want it... Aw well, it's as good as I can get it. XP
Hmmm... I was hoping to get more updates in this weekend... Well, anyway, I hope you enjoy the chapters I did post!
Disclaimer: I do not own Avatar or any of its characters.
