Chapter 5
Lay it to rest
The funeral proceedings were all going to plan. Zuko had seriously out done himself. As the ceremonial lanterns were let go in honour of Aang, Katara felt a sense of peace- she was finally laying his memory to rest. The gAang sat on a platform above the multitude of people who had come to pay their respects to the last air bender.
The fire Sages walked over to Aang's body which was set on a funeral pyre, Zuko rose from his throne. "Here lays Avatar Aang, last of the air nomads and pupil of monk Gyatso of the Southern air temple. He was the catalyst that brought the end of the hundred years' war and fought for peace and balance through all the remaining kingdoms. But most importantly he was a friend with a gentle heart and childlike wit. His spirit will make its way to meet his ancestors, may the gods guide his path." Zuko battled back the tears, but Toph could not hold hers back as the fire Sages set Aang's body a light. The gAang averted their eyes... all but Katara.
The flames started to rise high, then they started to change colour, red, blue, white, sliver and green. Each flame a new colour. The flames grew higher and more aggressive. "Guys look" Katara called to her friends to open their eyes and witness this spectacular sight. In the middle of the flames was Aang's spirit rising up. The crowd were silent in awe. The GAang rushed forward towards the flames. Aang's spirit came out of the flames and walked towards Zuko and Katara and took each of their hands and joined them in front of the crowds "there shall be peace" Aang roared. The crowd bowed in reverence and Aang's spirit ascended upwards to meet Yue in the sky. Everyone just looked up in bewilderment, everyone was speechless.
"That must have been hard" Yue said looking at Aang. "Yeah you have no idea" Aang whispered.
LATER THAT NIGHT
After the Avatars ascension the rest of the funeral had proceeded as normal… well as normal as possible after THAT. Zuko sat alone in his study pondering his future- his joint future with Katara. "Sir I'm sorry to bother you. We've received news from the agents you sent on the secret assignment." Zuko's heart almost stopped. "What?" The fire Lord breathed.
"Your mother is alive my Lord".