Prompt: #078 Gift
Title: Peace Offering
Word Count: 395
Rating: K
Authors Note: Wow, it's been a really long time since I've updated! Almost seven months! Holy crap, sorry guys. I'll try not to do that again. Anyway, I hope y'all like this one! I think it's my longest yet.
Her eyes moved from his face to the object in his out-stretched hand and back. "What is that?" The trepidation in her voice was mirrored be the wary look in her eyes.
"Think of it as a … peace offering to the Water Tribes."
"But, Zuko, you know as well as I do there is no hostility between out lands any longer. There is no need for such an offer."
"Do you really think it wise to deny an offer of peace from the Fire Nation?" Although they both knew there was no real threat in the words he spoke a frown still marred Katara's pretty features. After a moment of hesitation she nodded her head in acquiescence.
"Okay. I accept you offer on behalf of the Northern and Southern Water Tribes."
"As you should. Now, lift your hair." Katara chose to ignore Zuko's self-satisfied tone and did as he asked. He clasped the gold garnet encrusted choker around her slender neck and took his time to ensure it sat perfectly above her pulse point. Small goose bumps formed where the cool metal came into contact with her warm skin. Finally, the Fire Prince lifted a small hand-held mirror for her to see his gift. He smiled lightly at her surprised gasp.
"Thank you. It's beautiful."
"Indeed."
---
"Hello, Mrs. Aiko! How are you today?" Katara smiled pleasantly at the elderly shop-keeper.
"Oh, I'm doing quite well, deary. I think I'll be around for a while longer yet." A warm, easy smile graces Mrs. Aiko's face as she watched Master Katara wander about the small shop.
After inspecting the elderly woman's wares Katara finally brought her purchases to the front desk. "Well, this is all I will be getting for today. When will your next shipment come in?"
"Not until late next wee—Oh, my goodness! That must be some man you've caught yourself. A fine man, indeed!" Mrs. Aiko exclaimed as her eyes settled on the garnet choker about Katara's neck, completely ignoring the younger woman's purchases. Katara sputtered at her exclamation, her mind reeling at the thought of the significance of chokers in the Water Tribes. How could she have forgotten? Katara was saved from answering as another shop patron did the job for her.
"Yes, he is a fine man." Zuko nearly laughed at the surprised look on Katara's suddenly fiery-red face.
