Chapter 40

When Toph got the call, hope surged through her at the thought of her best friend among the living. As soon as her mother had gone, she calls her friends, still a little baffled. Sokka was first, and she had to whisper/yell for him to be quiet. She should start calling him loud mouth. He didn't need a phone; he had his voice.

Sokka told her that he'll call Suki, so Toph called Zuko, and he was happy to learn of his friend's survival. He was at Mai's place, so that saved Toph some time. Afterward, she lay in her bed, heart pounding like a drum. Katara was alive! Tears of joy slipped from her green eyes at the thought. They are going to stay together; her family was whole again.

Toph turned on her side and thought of everything that led to this moment. Who knew that fate had brought them together? It was too good to be true. She had found friends that know who she was, and saw in her the being she could become. They showed faith in each other, and believed that things were going to work out all right.

Then she thought of the Duke. He was someone special, and no one has ever made her feel all tingly. What was it about him that touched her? She even wondered if 'Duke' was his real name. Probably not, but she could always find out. Toph's heart was pounding, and she had a goofy grin on her face. She would love to get to know him.

Yawning, Toph climbed under the covers, head nestled into the pillows. She couldn't wait to see her friends tomorrow. She had persuade them to meet after school to go to the hospital to see Katara alive and well. With a smile, Toph feel asleep, happy that things are working out for the better.

The next day went by quickly for the Gaang. Once the final bell rang, they ran to their cars and drive over to the hospital. Aang didn't go to school because he couldn't leave his love's side. He had told his uncle where he was, and the man had driven there, where Aang explained everything while Katara was in surgery. Surprising him, Gyatso had thought this was going to happen, and how proud he was of these kids for making a difference. The only disappointment was of Aang keeping this a secret a from him. He promised he would never do it again.

When they got there, Toph asked for Katara Yatsunoma's room. The nurse told them it was room 205. They went up the elevator, down a short hall, and stood before the door. Soft voices emanated from within. Toph looked at her friends, saw the mixture of fear and hope mingling. Then, taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, she knocked on the door. It was quiet for a few moments; then the door opened slightly and Aang stuck his head out. His eyes widened when he saw his friends before he grinned and opened the door wider.

Katara was sitting up, drinking juice. She looked up and nearly choked. Swallowing, she gaped at her friends, them staring back at her. Then everyone came to her, saying how happy they were that she was alive, how upset they had been when she was hurt; Sokka was in hysterics. He hugged her, shameless tears falling down his face. He kissed her face repeatedly before bringing her close again. "I thought you were gone! I've never been so happy to see you!"

Katara sighed. "Nice to know that I was missed. Now let me go; I already had one near death experience. I don't need another." He backed away, looking sheepish but pleased.

Toph lightly punched her friend's arm. "I thought you were a goner, Sugar Queen!"

Katara smiled, for once not bothered by her nickname. "I missed you too, Toph." The green eye girl smiled and hugged her friend. Katara frowned. "But how did guys know I was okay?" Then it seemed to hit her, and she raised an eyebrow at her boyfriend. "Aang? Would you care to explain?"

He grinned. "While you were asleep, I made a call to Toph, and she called the rest of them. They had to know."

Toph added, "I only called Sokka and Zuko. They told Mai and Suki. It went really quick. Then we decided to come here after school to see you. We wanted to make sure you were alive."

Katara smiled at her friends with tears pooling in her eyes. "Spirits, I've missed you guys." Her friends hugged her again, being careful so as not to injure her. When they broke apart, she held out her arms to Aang, and he wordlessly went into the embrace. "Thank you," she murmured.

Aang held her close. "You're welcome. As long as you're happy." She looked into his face with shining eyes before kissing him, not caring about the eyes watching her. Aang responded without even thinking; this felt natural to both of them, and nothing was going to ruin it.

When they broke a apart, she asked, "After the phone call, did you go anywhere? I thought I sensed-" She cut herself of with a glance at their friends, who were staring at her. Her cheeks became heated.

Aang laughed. "Don't worry; they know about our power to communicate with our minds. They know everything. I had to tell them so we could find you." Katara nodded in understanding. "As for where I went, I went back to Jet's room." Everyone looked incredulously at him as he explained his visit. He left out the part about Jet being raped as a child. He concluded with, "I know he's done damage, and has done things that people can't begin to understand. But Jet's had a hard past, just like the rest of us. He's changed, and I'm willing to give him a chance." Katara nodded in agreement.

Their friends were quiet until Toph sighed. "Okay, I'm game. If you believe he's changed and willing to make things right, then I'm with you." Aang and Katara smiled gratefully at her.

Zuko and Mai shared a look before he shrugged and said, "You've never given us a reason to doubt anything, Aang. If you trust him then we're all for it." The younger couple relaxed more.

Suki took a deep breath. Then she said, "If anyone else had said to trust Jet, I wouldn't listen. But since it's coming from you guys, I'm willing to try at least to make amends."

Sokka threw his arms up. "You guys are nuts!" Crossing his arms he continued. "The rest of you might be willing to give Jet a chance, but not me. Have you guys forgotten what he did; all of the times he tried to kill us? He nearly took Katara away! I'm not ready to forgive until I know for certain that he can be forgiven."

Aang stood up and to his friend to clasp his shoulder. "We understand how you feel. I wouldn't have believed it either if I hadn't seen his face. Jet's remorseful, Sokka. He truly regrets what he has done. Just talk to him. I promise you he's changed. Please; give him a chance."

Sokka's hard blue gaze stared into Aang's gentle, honest one, and felt his annoyance melt, no matter how hard he tried to keep it in place. Why did this kid have to be the peacemaker of the group? Sighing, he dropped his arms wearily. "Fine. I'll try to understand Jet's perspective. But if he turns on us, I'm going to beat him up."

Aang stepped away, hiding his grin. "Fair enough."

Mai said, "So what now? The war is over, and we're not needed now."

Suki shrugged. "I guess we go back to being normal. Or as normal as we had been before this mess started."

Katara shook her head. "We can't make things the way they had been. The best we can do is make a better future for ourselves. Which reminds me. Sokka; where's Dad? Does he know about me being here?"

Her brother shook his head. "He was away when all of this happened. He should be home later on today."

His sister sighed. She felt relieved for having him gone, away from the danger; yet guilt ate at her insides like a living creature. Katara didn't want to leave her father in the dark anymore; especially now that the war is over. "I think it's about time he knew what's been going on."

Sokka nodded. "I've been thinking the same thing."

Zuko and Mai shared a look. "My uncle already knows. My Mom has kept him updated."

Mai snorted softly. "I don't plan on telling my parents. They wouldn't believe it anyway."

Suki shrugged. "I'm might tell my Mom. She deserves to know the truth behind Dad's death."

Toph smirked. "I already told my Mom. She took it really well."

Aang added, "My uncle knows. He wasn't surprised, and he said that he's proud of us." Everyone was quiet, a peaceful, not awkward silence that spoke volumes. No more fighting; no more planning; no more undercover guises. Things are falling into their rightful place. Nothing could ruin this hard fought peace.

Finally Sokka asked, "How long do you have to stay in here?"

Katara shrugged. "Dr. Emerson said I could go home tomorrow morning. He wants to be certain I can handle myself."

Aang squeezed her hand. "I'll be happy when you come out." She smiled at him.

Toph gagged. "Okay; I've had enough mush. I'm ready to head out." She grabbed Katara's free hand and smiled at her. "It's good to have you back with us, Sugar Queen. I really missed you."

Katara nodded, glad to hear that nickname that used to annoy her. "I'm glad to be back. I missed you too, Toph." They hugged, and everyone followed suit. Sokka left his sister's backpack behind, saying that fresh clothes were there, before leaving the psychic couple alone, following the others out. They looked into each others eyes.

Aang moved a piece of her hair away and kissed her forehead. "I'm going to get something to eat. Are you hungry?"

She nodded as her stomach growled a bit. "Yeah, a little. I could use a salad."

He grinned. "Okay. I'll be back soon. Relax, okay? You'll need to save your energy if you want to go home tomorrow." Katara nodded, and Aang kissed her before leaving. She lay back, and waited for her boyfriend to return.

Later that night, the Gaang was sleeping peacefully, undisturbed. Then the peaceful darkness began to gain light and shapes. At first everything was a blur; then the world sharpened into what looked like a throne room. Aang, Katara, Zuko, and Toph looked around in amazement. The room was large and round, made out of marble with four pillars spaced out.

In the center was an oval table, specks of yellow gold, blue, green, and red sparkling in the surface. Behind the table, along the length, were four thrones, each one representing the four different elements. The Air throne was sculpted out of marble, like the other chairs, painted yellow and gold, with clouds and swirls of wind built with it. There sat Aang's mother, Maria, with a peaceful look on her soft face, wearing gold, orange, and yellow robes. Her eyes sparkled as she gazed at her son.

The second throne, painted white and blue and sculpted to represent waves, sat Kya, Katara's mother, in a blue and white kimono with a fur trim. She smiled lovingly and proudly at her daughter.

The third throne, green for the grass and brown for the rocks, sat Georgina, Toph's grandmother, in brown and green robes. She winked at Toph, and she grinned in reply.

Lastly, on a throne with carved flames, in red and gold robes, was Roku, Zuko's great grandfather. He looked as regal as Zuko remembered, but the man had a small grin as he gazed at his great grandson.

Everyone was quiet. Then Aang bowed, and his friend's followed by his example. Maria raised her hand. "Rise, children. There is no need to be bowing." The teenagers rise, looking at the Council with awe. All of them are their families long gone, people who helped shaped these kids into who they were now.

Katara looked at her mother. "There's something I've always been curious about. May I proceed?" Kya inclined her head. "As far as I know, only Benders are allowed on the council. Does that mean...?"

Her mother smiled. "Very observant. Yes, Katara. You got your Bending from me. I never told you because I didn't want to endanger you and our family. I'm sorry I never told you, my little dolphin." Tears in Katara's eyes, she nodded in understanding as well as acceptance. She would have done the same thing if she was in her mother's shoes. Come to think of it, that was how she felt now. Irony.

Aang's mother broke the silence. "We are very pleased by what you have accomplished; and very proud of your deeds. You have helped the world in more ways then one. You have shown bravery, intelligence, wisdom, and love. You have given other people a chance to help. The world is indebted to you, young heroes."

There was a murmur of agreement; then Roku said, "You have indeed showed wisdom beyond your years. Not many people can survive the dangers of this world as you and the others have. Now, it is time for your decision. Will you keep your Bending, of forsake them forever? Remember; the decision you make now cannot be reversed. Choose wisely."

Aang looked at his friends and saw them do the same thing. Zuko came forward. He looked at the members and took a deep breath. Squaring his shoulders he declared, "I decide to keep my powers! I will do anything to keep people safe with them." Roku simply closed his eyes and muttered something, and a red glow surrounded the Firebender, warm power coursing through his body. It vanished a few moments later. He smiled and backed away.

Toph stepped forward and looked each Council member in the eye before taking a breath. "I choose to keep my powers in case they are ever needed." Her grandmother smiled and waved her hand with a flourish, and Toph glowed a bright green. Power surged through her. Then the light was gone, and Toph stepped back, a huge smile on her face.

Katara was next. She looked at her mother with a determined expression. "I will keep them, and use for healing and other uses." Kya nodded and blew on her hand, where blue mist swirled and expanded until it reached Katara, washing her with cool radiance. Aang thought she never looked more beautiful. When the light faded, she stepped back with a grin.

Now it was Aang's turn. He looked at his mother, heart pounding. He saw acceptance and love her gaze. No matter what he chose, she would always be proud of him. Aang took a deep breath and stepped forward. With serious gray eyes he said, "When we got these powers, we had sworn to protect others, no matter what the circumstances. We had a responsibility to help others, and to right the wrongs that had been made. I've never considered myself normal, and I knew something had been missing. It wasn't until I became an Airbender that I knew. I was born to protect, just like my friends. I couldn't be prouder of what we had done, and I couldn't be happier than I am. We became a family, and I wouldn't trade them for anything in the world." He looked at his friends, eyes lingering on Katara, who had tears in her eyes, before gazing at the Council again. "So I decide to keep my powers too. I will use them for the better."

Tears in her eyes, Maria nodded. Gesturing with her hands, a slight breeze stirred, and she pushed gold flecks flew onto Aang's person until it glowed around him. Just like the others, power coursed inside his body, empowering him. And forevermore, he will remain an Airbender. When the glow vanished, he smiled at his mother and stepped back, grabbing Katara's hand. She squeezed his hand in return.

Georgina smiled. "It is done. Now you are Benders; use your powers wisely. They will help you in the future." She spread her arms wide as if to embrace them all. "The time has come to depart. If we are ever in need of your services, we will let you know. You are free to go. And remember, the world gives you its thanks. Farewell."

The teenagers watched as the council room disappeared, and sleep once more occupied their minds.

The next morning Katara woke up, feeling stronger than ever. Her whole body felt more alive than ever before; it was like being high from caffeine, but healthier. She felt as if she could face anything that was thrown at her.

Katara's mind reeled as she thought of the meeting with the High Spirits. Her Mom had been a Waterbender as well? This news was amazing, and she envied her mother even more for keeping it a secret to protect her family.

A sigh by her interrupted her thoughts, and she turned her head to see Aang waking up. He raised his head and looked around before gazing into blue pools. It stunned Katara to see his gray orbs swirling like clouds.

To Aang, it felt as of he could fly. Power, so strong he wondered how it remained tamed inside him, flowed through his system. He felt as if he could lift anything with just air alone.

When he stared into Katara's eyes, the blue swirled like a typhoon, beautiful and powerful, just waiting to be unleashed. They seem more fierce than usual. Katara was going to be a very powerful Waterbender.

He grinned. "Hi."

Katara smiled back with a giggle. "Hi yourself."

"How do you feel?" he asked.

Katara pursed her lips thoughtfully. She stretched lightly, aware of the IV, then said, "Like I could fight an army."

Aang laughed. "Me too. It's probably just the after affects of becoming full time Benders." He frowned thoughtfully. "Now we're going to stay like this forever. What do you think they meant about needing us for the future?"

Katara shrugged. "I don't know. But I don't think we would have to worry about that for a long time. Everything's fine now." Still, she felt a foreboding sensation that this wasn't completely over. But she pushed it aside. Even if they were needed in the future, it would be years before they were needed, if ever. Now that things were peaceful, Katara and the others could focus on their paths.

Aang grabbed her hand. "You're right. Now all we need to do is focus on us. Are we still going to live together after high school?"

Katara grinned, happy for the change of subject. "You bet. Just you and me." She have him a quick kiss.

That was when Dr. Emerson walked in. He smiled when he saw Katara up and alert. "I see you're better this morning. How are you?"

Katara grinned again. "Like I could take down an army."

Emerson chuckled at the exaggeration; yet he was pleased by how healthy the girl looked. "That's wonderful, Miss Yatsunoma. Now, if you please, we will examine you one more time. Then you'll be free to go. Hold out your arm please..."

A little over half an hour later, Aang and Katara walked to the front of the building, where the revolving doors sat motionless. They had stopped by Jet's room after Katara was dressed in jeans and purple long sleeve shirt. He had begged Katara for forgiveness, and she had given it, seeing how he had changed.

Now she was leaving, going back to the real world once more. She and Aang exchanged glances, hearts pounding with excitement and nervousness. After everything, could they really make a living, knowing how dangerous the world can actually be? Yes; they can. People face challenges and threats all the time. They can do it!

So the both of them took a deep breath and went through the door. Once they were out in the open, flashes surrounded them, making the couple cringe and shield their eyes from the brightness. It took them only a moment to understand that the flashes came from cameras. What in the name of their mothers was going on here?

A males voice shouted, "That's them! It's Avatar Aang and the Waterbender Katara!"

"Avatar?" they both shouted.

"You're an icon, kid!" another male yelled. "You need a title! We think it fits!" There were cheers coming everyone, and the man yelled, "You're our heroes!"

More cheers followed this statement, along with more flashes. Then a familiar voice, a teenage boy, shouted, "Move it! That's my sister you're crowding!" Sokka and Suki managed to get to the building without being completely crushed.

A girl shrieked with glee. "That's Sokka and Suki; the warriors of their group!" Yet more flashes followed, and Sokka grinned and flashed some poses, which the crowed ate up. Suki hit him on the head to get her boyfriend to stop. Then two more figures joined them. Zuko and Mai covered their eyes.

"Zuko and Mai have joined their friends!" a female reporter shouted. "The Firebender and the knife thrower!" Clicks went around with the yells and cheers. It was starting to give everyone headaches.

Then the last person, Toph, joined them by shoving her way through. "It's the blind Earthbender, Toph, who can feel vibrations through the ground!" another female yelled.

Toph sighed, not bothering to hide her blind eyes from the flashes. They didn't really bother her; but they did annoy her. A man asked Aang and Katara, "Is it true that Miss Yatsunoma took the blade for you when Jet tried to stab you in the back, Mr. Montauk?"

Before Aang could answer, Toph stomped her foot and sent a small wave through the crowd. They had to stop taking pictures in order to keep their balance. Awed silence filled the streets as they gaped at the Earthbender, who called, "Even if that were true, you have no business knowing that. We just want to go back to living our lives like we had before this chaos broke out. Yes, we saved the world. Yahoo! Now that the threat is gone, I suggest you go back to writing stories more suited for the papers."

"But you guys are heroes!" called someone in the middle. "You deserve praise for saving everyone. What you kids did changed everyone here. We are indebted to you. Especially you, Avatar Aang. If you hadn't helped form this group, this world would be in more trouble, and it was you and your friends that solved a mystery that has plagued everyone for years. Thank you, young heroes. May the Spirits bless you!" Cheers followed this statement.

It took a while, but eventually the crowd dispersed, and the Gaang walked to the cars that had been parked. They drove to Sokka's and Katara's place, knowing that their father had to know the truth.

It turned out that things were more or less explained, for Hakoda had been watching the news while they played live at the hospital. Sokka and Katara's father gaped openly at them as they and their friends explained everything besides the psychic couples mental abilities. All they told him was that they managed to figure out which building Katara had been in

The man looked almost as if he was going to have a heart attack when they got to the part about Katara being stabbed and seeing the bandage that covered her wound. Rage coloreds his face at the thought of his daughter dying. Katara explained how if she hadn't done so, Aang would have been killed.

When they finished, Hakoda sat there in bewilderment. Then he stood up and embraced his kids, who hugged him back. He searched their gazes as if trying to find the difference from how they had been to now. He gazed at Katara's solemn blue eyes and swallowed. "I'm so sorry," he mumbled. "I should have known. My money did this to us."

She shook her head. "It's not your fault, Dad. It was supposed to be this way. We were needed to make the world safe."

Anger suddenly covered his face. "Why would you put yourselves into danger? Do you have any idea what could've happened to you?" He started pacing in agitation. "I know you felt as if it was the right thing to do, but did it ever occur to you that someone of this group could've gotten killed? Katara nearly lost her life because of this!"

Aang stepped forward and blocked Hakoda's path. He stopped with a start. Aang placed his hand on the man's shoulder. "I know you're upset," he started quietly. "I was there when it had happened. There wasn't time; she only acted with whatever time she had." The boy released Hakoda's shoulder. "When she was stabbed, I thought I was going to die because I couldn't do anything to help her. I felt like a failure to everyone. I had promised to keep her safe, yet I didn't at that moment. All I could have done was pray that she was going to be okay. I never stopped believing because if I did, I might as well have killed both of us at the same time. But I kept trying, knowing I could not give up, not after everything we've gone through. I'm sorry I let everyone down. I promise to never let Katara or anyone else get hurt again, even if I have to die."

Hakoda stared into Aang's old, sincere gray orbs, and felt his anger as it melted away to be replaced with weariness. Sitting down, he sighed and ran a hand through his hair. Then he looked at everyone in the group, and realized how much they had grown in the past few months. Their childhoods had been stripped away for the most part, and they had faced danger that not many people could have survived. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to get angry. But the thought of any of you in this kind of danger is maddening. It makes me feel as if I'm not doing my job as a father right." He looked at Katara and Sokka with tears in his eyes. "You must think I'm horrible."

Katara came closer. "Never, Dad. You're doing a great job. But you can't protect us from everything. No one can. Sacrifices must be made in order to gain more. Don't ever feel like your bad as a father. You aren't. You're the best dad anyone could have asked for." She hugged him, and Sokka joined in. The small family stayed in their embrace for a minute.

Then Hakoda took a deep breath and relinquished them with a watery smile. "You're right. I know I can't protect you forever. All I can do is raise you the best I can. But I want you kids to know how proud I am of you; all of you."

Everyone smiled and Toph said, "It was nothing. In my opinion, it was pretty fun tossing rocks at those Snakeheads. They never knew what hit them!" Laughter went around.

Once it stopped Hakoda asked, "Who do you think told about you guys?"

Toph shrugged. "Probably one of the converted Black Mamba agents. But at this point, I really don't care. All I want now is some peace."

Zuko snorted. "Yeah right. With the press out there, peace is going to be kinda hard to obtain." There were some murmurs of agreement.

The Blind Bandit said, "Don't worry. Give it a couple years and people will get tired of us. Trust me on this."

Suki, who had been silent for a while, said, "Well, in whatever case, I think we should start our lives for the better. How about we go on a picnic? I'm kinda hungry, and I think everyone should bring their own dishes."

Katara nodded. "Sounds good to me." It was then that Momo came down the stairs and, with a mew, jumped into Katara's waiting arms, where he started purring loudly, making everyone chuckle.

Aang crouched next to her and scratched one of Momo's ears, saying, "Sounds like a perfect start." She smiled at him.

Hakoda stood up. "I just remembered; I have something for Momo. Hold on a second." He went into the closet, and came back a few moments later with a small harness. He handed it to Aang. "You can take Momo if want. I'm sure he would love the park."

Katara smiled at her father. "I think so too." Momo started squirming as if he knew they were going and was eager to get there. "Well, what are we waiting for? Let's get started!"

Later, they sat on a large blanket eating. Appa and Momo relaxing next to their owners, the sun shining through the gaps in the light gray clouds. Sokka burped, and Toph laughed loudly. "Nice one, Meat Head!

He mock bowed. "What can I say; it's my talent."

She snorted. "Sure it is," she said sarcastically before quickly standing up. "I'm bored. Can we do something fun?"

Sokka stood up with his Frisbee. "Yeah, okay," he said, a little miffed. "Who's ready to start being normal?"

Toph chuckled. "Playing normal, maybe; but being normal? Not going to happen." Their friends laughed as everyone save Aang and Katara stood up to walk out to the field. Toph stopped and asked them, "Twinkle Toes, Sugar Queen; you guys coming?"

Aang shook his as Katara answered. "No, that's okay. We're going to sit here for a while. Go ahead." Toph shrugged and ran over to the others, who had started tossing the Frisbee around. Katara started playing with Aang's necklace and asked, "What are you thinking about?"

Aang shrugged, reclining against the tree they rested at the base of. "The usual," he murmured.

Katara looked up at him with a smile. "The fighting or the future?" she asked while raising an brow.

He chuckled as he played with her hair. "The future, mostly. What would happen now that everything's done. We can focus on anything now."

She sighed in contentment. "What do you want in the future?"

Aang buried his head in her hair. "That's easy; to live with you, make a life together, have... kids." Katara could tell that he was blushing at that last part, and her face felt hot.

"You want to have kids with me?" she whispered.

He slowly lifted his head to meet her gaze and swallowed. "Yes, Katara; I do." He ducked his head and licked his lips. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring that up. But it's been in my mind for weeks now. I couldn't hold the truth in anymore. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."

Katara touched his cheek. "It's okay. I've actually been thinking about it too. A lot. Ever since we became a couple, these thoughts have been rushing through my mind for a long time. I just didn't think you would want them."

Aang looked into her eyes. "Of course I do. As long as we have them together. I can't picture having children with anyone but you."

Katara snuggled into him. "Me either. I don't want them with anyone else except you."

He kissed the top of her head. "That means everything to me. Thank you." In answer, she raised her head and kissed him. He responded without thinking, heart pounding so hard it made him dizzy. He pulled her closer until she was in his lap, tongues fighting for domination. He broke away to start kissing her neck with a breathy chuckle. "Looks like we get to finish what we had started." Katara murmured in assent before arching her neck, completely at his mercy.

Aang's lips lingered on her pulse like before. She was so beautiful, brave, strong, and special. There was no one else like her in the world. Katara was like a precious jewel that needed to be guarded every second. He would give anything to hold this treasure for the rest of his life.

As Katara moved his head to make Aang kiss her again, she thought about a possible future with the man she knew he would grow up to be. Aang was strong, kind, wise, and powerful. If she had to choose between money and love, love would win. Katara wouldn't care if he was broke because it would not change who they were: soul mates. Two halves of the same whole.

They were about to lie down when Sokka's annoying voice shouted, "What are you doing? Stop making out in front of me!" The couple broke apart, breathless and blushing madly. Not again!

Toph laughed. "Now that I can see for real, I have to agree with Sokka. I can practically see the heat waves coming off of you two. Let me tell you, it brings a whole new level of 'Yak!'" Everyone laughed as Aang and Katara grinned and shook their heads. Things were getting better.

A group of people walked on the field. The Gaang recognized them as Smellerbee and her friends; except that she had her hand in Longshot's, and they both seemed happy. They walked over to their friends and everyone sat down together. Toph and the Duke shared a shy look and smile before looking away. Them Suki said, "So, what happens now? What did the judge say?" Smellerbee and her friends had been to court early this morning to find what their punishment was for their crimes.

Smellerbee shrugged. "It was actually not a bad sentence. Because of the fact that we had helped to stop this, and of the reason we had been tricked, all we have to so is street cleanup for a month."

Sokka groaned. "A whole month! I would die in a week!"

"If not a few days," Katara muttered, which caused a few chuckles to erupt.

Sokka glared at her. "Whatever," he muttered back.

Toph looked at Longshot and Smellerbee with a grin. "I see you two have gotten together." She had always known how they looked each other. Nothing escapes her notice.

Longshot brought her close to him. "Yeah. I finally got the guts to tell her how I felt. Turned out she felt the same." Smellerbee nodded, to comfortable to talk.

Sokka stood up. "That's great and all; but I'm tired of all this mush. Can we play ball or something?"

Zuko rolled his eyes as he and Mai stood up with everyone else. "You get bored too easily. That's supposed to be Mai's job." That earned him a glare, which he coward under. Next time he should just keep his mouth shut if he wanted to keep his blood.

Suki laughed. "I'm with Sokka on this one. Let's go do something!" Everyone laughed as they ran onto the field.

Aang and Katara lingered behind and looked at one another before they shared one more lingering kiss. 'I love you Flowing Wind,' Katara murmured, pulling away.

Aang kissed her forehead tenderly before hugging her close. 'I love you more, Water Lily. Now and forever.' He looked at her with happy eyes, for once unburdened. 'Come on; let's join the others.' Katara nodded and, holding hands while laughing, they ran to where their friends who were tossing the Frisbee again, completely at ease.

The fight has been won, peace was restored, enemies had become allies, and allies became friends. High school has brought plenty of surprises, both good and bad. No matter what lay in the future, they knew they could handle it, as long as they were together to face it.

This is the final chapter! Epilogue coming up soon. But I hope you guys enjoyed this story. If it's not to much to ask, can you spread this story to any Kataanger you know? That would make me happy. Thanks and watch out for the epilogue