Azula leads Kari into the front courtyard by the large white steps that lead to the double doors of the palace
."First we must see if you can bend," Azula says looking down at the child.
"I can bend," Kari smiles innocently as she bends backwards into a back handspring
"No Kari," Azula says letting a laugh, a genuine laugh, escape her lips.
The Fire Princess shakes her head and smiles despite herself.
"Bending like this," She says producing a small blue flame above her palm.
"Oh that," Kari says standing up normally. The small child runs over to Azula and concentrates.
Azula watches as the child's hands produce a small lavender flame.
The princess's amber eyes widen. What in Agni's nameā¦
"Like that Azula?" Kari asks looking up at the kind woman with her unusual eyes.
The Princess's mouth is suddenly very dry. I've never seen anything like it... she thinks to herself.
Kari meanwhile shifts from foot to foot uncomfortably. She doesn't like the silence and the way the woman who took her in was looking at her.
"I'm sorry," She says quickly. Suddenly Azula feels the child's little arms around her legs as she begins to sob and beg not to be Punished.
Azula's amber eyes widen as she tries to comprehend the sobbing child's words. Servants halt and look at the scene interested in what the Princess will do next.
"shh, Kari," Azula says hoping her voice doesn't shake, "Don't cry my Little Flame, Shh now, No one will punish you; not while I am here to protect you,"
Zuko watches from the window as his Baby Sister kneels on the grass and uncharacteristically embraces toe sobbing girl in her arms.
"You're doing well Sis," He whispers as his heart swells with pride. "Mom would be very proud of you."
