a/n So here it is…the last chapter. I know I forewarned this being late, but I apologize anyways for not having it ready before tonight. Being sick and having a sick computer is no fun, but everything is running more smoothly now and I'd like to thank you so much for the well wishes! I know you're probably dying to read the chapter, so I'll put all my heartfelt goodbyes and final notes at the end.

This fateful final chapter highlights parts of their day, leading up to the actual wedding.

Chapter 44 ~Surprises, Luck, and Happily Ever After~

-Katara-

Her eyes sprung open. Moonlight was streaming in through the window, the curtains still pulled back. She softly got out of bed and drifted to the window. A small writing desk prevented her from standing flush with the widow, but she could still see the moon. It was beautiful, rising over the palace roofs, and it looked full. She rested her hands on the desk to lean closer. Something distracted her. There was something underneath her right hand. She looked down to see that her hand had rested on a paperweight. A single piece of paper was spread out on the table and weighted down on both sides, ready for use. Also on the desk were a selection of brushes and a bottle of ink. Hmmm… She had an idea of what she wanted to say in her vows, but perhaps it'd be better to write them down so she could organize her thoughts. Quietly pulling the chair out, she sat, undid the bottle of ink, dipped one of the beautiful brushes in it, and started to write.

-Zuko-

For the first time in a while, he woke just before sunrise. I'm getting married today, he thought as his eyes opened. He untangled himself from the sheets and pillows. He had slept on her side of the bed because otherwise it felt too empty. The small desk under the window had been prepped and all he had to do was put brush to paper. He sat and let all the love and commitment he felt towards her drift through him. His eyes began to sting and he quickly wiped away the tears before they could fall. He couldn't get the page wet. Carefully, he dipped the brush into the ink and began to write.

He was so excited afterwards he didn't even try to go back to sleep. Instead, he threw on a robe and roamed the halls. He wasn't sure if he had any place in mind, but he soon found himself in the courtyard with the turtle duck pond. He smiled fondly at the pond. The sunrise was beautiful and bringing with it a splendid day. It had taken a bit of consideration, but he thought he captured his love and devotion for Katara in his vows. The words rolled over in his mind as he stared into the water. He sat contentedly by the pond until a faint rustle broke the peace.

He was looking around for the source of the noise when a quiet giggle came from the bush next to him.
"Ning!" he heard someone who had to be Ikem call in a strained whisper. "Ning!" Zuko couldn't help but smile as he leaned closer to the bush.
"Ning?" he called softly, trying to see behind the shrubbery.
"Zuzu!" Ning squealed as he leaped out of the bush into Zuko's arms (Thank Agni for fast reflexes). The boy gave Zuko a tight hug.
"Ning!" Ikem admonished as he discovered the lad. Ning sighed, unwrapped his arms from around Zuko's neck, and moved to stand in front of his father.
"Yes, Dada?" he asked, looking down at his feet.
"I thought I asked you to stay in the room." Ikem said, then looking up at Zuko added, "We're sorry to have disturbed you."
"It's okay," he replied with a smile as he stood up.
"Still though…" Ikem nudged Ning's shoulder and the boy turned around.
"Sorry for surprising you Zuzu," Ning apologized, still looking down at his feet. The pet name stuck out at Zuko.
"Where did you hear that?" he asked, surprised in earnest. Ning looked up with a confused expression on his face.
"Azula said I could call you that…" he said hesitantly, "Is it okay?" Zuko nodded and the tension on Ning's little face broke. "Good!" he said, smiling.
"I think it's only fair then that you call her 'Zula.'" Zuko whispered like it was a secret. Ning nodded seriously.
"What are those?" he abruptly asked as he pointed to something behind Zuko. Zuko turned to see three turtle ducks waddling into the pond. He crouched down beside Ning.
"They're called turtle ducks."
"They're cute."
"Yeah," he agreed, getting lost in the nostalgia for a moment, "You know, Mom used to sit on this very lawn and watch the turtle ducks with me."
"Really?" asked Ning wide eyed. "My Mama used to live here?"
"Uh-huh," he answered vaguely. The details of Ursa's banishment were too much to tell a five year old.
"Why did she leave?" his little eyebrows knit together in confusion.
"She…uh…" Zuko glanced behind at Ikem for help. Ikem gave him a nod before coming over to stand with his hands on Ning's shoulders.
"She had to leave, Son." Ikem answered and Ning looked up at him obviously still confused.
"But why?" he asked again.
"She had to come find me."
"But why did she leave this place?" Ning persisted, "This place is so cool."
"You think so?" Ikem asked with a smile.
"Oh yes!" Ning answered with an enthusiastic nod, his previous question forgotten, "And it's huge! Bigger than Gran's house! Can we go exploring again?" Ikem glanced to Zuko who smiled and nodded.
"Sure, Son," Ikem agreed. No sooner had the words came out of his mouth did Ning have his father by the hand and was dragging him away.
"Bye Zuzu!" Ning called over his shoulder as he ran.
"Bye," Zuko said after them even though he doubted they heard. There was so much to do and he was so excited to start. Every beat of his heart was one less until he'd be married.

-Katara-

The sun was filtering through her window when she opened her eyes. I'm getting married today she thought. She smiled and sat up. Next to the window the desk still had the piece of paper laid out; however, now words of love and dedication decorated the page. She smiled and read the words over in her mind. There was a tentative knock on the door.
"Yes?" she called out. The door opened slightly.
"Can I come in?" asked a nervous voice and Azula peeked around the door. Katara eyes widened before she quickly wiped off her look of surprise.
"Sure," she smiled and Azula entered the room, wringing her hands anxiously. Katara took a seat back on the bed and motioned Azula to do the same. "What's up?"
"Well since today's your wedding and all," Azula started hesitantly, "I wanted to help you get ready, if that's okay…"
"Of course it is Azula!" Katara beamed with delight. "After today we are going to be sisters."
"Hmm 'sisters'…" Azula tested the foreign word, "That sounds nice." She smiled shyly. Katara never thought she'd see a shy smile from Azula. Ever.
"I think so too. I-"
"Excuse me Princess, Lady Katara," interrupted a man from the doorway and they both turned, "But your tea is ready in the breakfast room."
"Oh, thank you." Katara said, trying not to sound so jumpy, "We'll be there soon." The man bowed his head to each of them and backed out of the room, shutting the door behind him. "I guess we should go have breakfast then…" she glanced over to see Azula staring out the window. "Is something on your mind?" Katara asked. Azula's head snapped back to hers.
"Nah, it's okay," Azula said dismissively.
"What is it? Do you want to talk about it?" she coaxed.
"I had dinner with Zuzu last night." Azula blurted.
"Good," Katara smiled. She was glad those two seemed to be adjusting and bonding.
"And Ikem, Ning, and…Rina were there,"
"Oh?" She was glad they had made it.
"Yeah, she's…she reminds me of Mom and, in a way, Zuko. Not just how she looks, but how she acts," Azula looked back out the window as she spoke, "Over dinner she asked me how I was and if I was excited for the wedding and… somehow…I don't think she hates me."
"Why would she hate you?" Katara asked before she could stop herself. After all…hadn't she hated Azula?
"Because of the monster I was," Azula confessed on the verge of tears, "She said she was happy to have me as her granddaughter and was sorry she couldn't meet me sooner. She said-" Azula's voice caught and a few tears spilled over, but she pushed through, "She said all Mom could talk about was Zuko and me. Mom told her that she loved us and hoped we'd find peace and happiness. Mom was planning to combine Zuko's and my name for her new baby girl… the one she never had. I never realized she… I just wish I could go back and change it all, become the person my mother would be proud of." Tears started sliding down Katara's cheeks now, unchecked.

In the past, she was sure Azula was heartless, but now she realized the opposite was true. Azula loved fiercely. Without a second thought, Katara pulled Azula into her arms where Azula sobbed into her shoulder.
"It's okay," Katara soothed and tucked Azula's hair behind her exposed ear, "I think your mother would be proud of you. Becoming a better person and trying to fix your mistakes, that's hard." Azula sniffed, pulled herself upright, and wiped her eyes on the sleeve of her robe.
"Thank you Katara," she said, her voice slightly husk from crying.
"Not a problem," Katara smiled and dashed her own tears away. She blamed the tears on her pregnancy. She seemed to be experiencing emotions a little stronger these days.
"I guess they're waiting for us, huh?" Azula said after a moment of silence.
"Yeah, guess so," Katara agreed, "Ready?" Azula smiled that shy smile again and nodded. Together they stood, left, and arm in arm went to have their tea.

Waiting for them (besides their tea) was Aang and Dad.
"Good morning!" she greeted them as she and Azula took their seats.
"'Morning," Aang replied, "I don't have long, but I wanted to go over a few wedding details."
"Uhm okay," she said, "Wait…Did you know? About the wedding? That it'd be so soon?"
"Maybe…" he answered evasively, but his ears turned a soft pink, "Anyways, I haven't done this before, but from what I've learned from Roku and Kuruk it's seems like pretty simple stuff. However, after talking with Zuko, I learned you guys aren't going to go the traditional route."
"Yeah, we're mixing some traditions," she paused for a moment, remembering what they had agreed on, "We're going to have vows at the end and…exchange rings." She glanced down at the stunning ring on her hand. Wait. Wasn't she supposed to get him a ring? What had he said?

"Men don't usually get their rings until the wedding." He had explained.
"Well, I guess I will have the time to find the perfect one for you." She had said with a smile.

Now she wasn't smiling. Now she was freaking out.
"Are you okay?" Azula asked her.
"Not really," she admitted in a nervous whine, "I didn't get a ring for Zuko!"
"Actually, Katara," Dad piped up, "I think I have just the thing." She involuntarily held her breath as he procured a small pouch and leaned over to place it on the table in front of her.
"Really?" she asked hopefully, "You're saving the day, as always."
"Oh come on," he smiled and the corners of his eyes crinkled, "I haven't done much. Open it." She did. It's perfect she thought as soon as the ring landed in her palm. It was white, but shimmered with life. What was it made from?
"Buffalo yak horn." Her father answered, guessing her question. "Maybe not the most graceful of beasts, but they're hard workers and, until they get older, very stubborn." She turned the ring over on its edge to see an intricate design carved around the band. "Remind you of anyone?" he asked.
"It's beautiful," she murmured, stunned by its loveliness.
"I agree," then he quickly added, "Not that I think Zuko is beautiful or anything," everyone laughed, "but I guess he's okay for my daughter." She hugged him tightly.
"Thanks Dad," she whispered into his shoulder, "I love you."
"Love you too," he whispered back.
"I'm sorry to interrupt Lady Katara," everyone looked up to see one of the twins in the doorway, "but you have a special visitor." Before Katara could ask who, Li/Lo stepped aside to reveal the mystery guest.
"Gran Gran!" Katara squealed and leaped to her feet. It felt like it had been ages since she had seen her.
"Hello Katara my dear. Sorry I'm late," Gran Gran said, smiling as she embraced Katara, "I refused to go on one of those flying death traps. I made Paku sail me up here."
"It's fine. I'm just so glad you're here!" Katara gushed.
"Like I would miss my only granddaughter's wedding." Katara smiled and led her to the table.
"Kanna," Dad greeted with a respectful nod as they sat.
"Hakoda," she replied with a small smile. Then she turned to Aang, "Avatar, it is so nice to see you again. You've grown up a lot since we last met."
"Well, I guess I had to grow up sometime. I will be 113 next season." Aang joked, causing everyone to laugh. Soon after, he had to leave for 'official wedding businesses,' and everyone else settled into a lovely breakfast while catching up.

-Zuko-

He didn't know when the wedding would take place until Uncle told him over lunch.
"Twilight," he answered offhandedly. Zuko was instantly reminded of Katara's and his fight on the beach. That had also been at twilight. Had Uncle known? "Toph, suggested it. Is it okay?" Zuko couldn't help but smile. So it had been on purpose.
"I don't know if I've gotten a chance to thank you yet Uncle," Zuko said instead of answering Uncle's question. The older man smiled and put down his tea.
"Your happiness is all the thanks I need," Uncle replied with a warm smile.
"Still though, I don't think I've told you just how grateful I am. You've always been there for me. You've believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself. Agni knows what I did to deserve you." Uncle's eyes were watering.
"It has been my honor to guide you on your way. You have always been like a son to me Zuko." A few tears slipped down Zuko's cheeks as he embraced Uncle.

When they pulled away, they each quickly wiped their tears.
"Now," Uncle said in a matter of fact way, "You still have many things to do before the ceremony." It was true. The only thing he'd accomplished that morning was approving his robes. Agni, he thought they turned out wonderful. Even with that completed, he still needed to examine the great hall and the balcony where they'd get married overlooking the water and (if he could get past Lo) visit the kitchens to see what they were preparing. Also, he needed to make sure everything was set for their honeymoon. They had just gotten back from a trip and he hated to leave again, but Uncle assured him everything would be fine. Zuko didn't want to spend his wedding night in a boat, so he decided they'd leave in the morning. It'd also give them more time while their family was visiting. He heard that Katara's grandmother had arrived earlier and it seemed rude to leave right away. Maybe after the wedding, he would introduce himself properly… The only time he'd met Kanna had been under less than gracious circumstances. He had tugged her aside at the Southern Pole in his desperateness to locate the Avatar. He shook his head to clear the memory. It hadn't been his best moment.

-meanwhile-

-Katara-

Lunchtime came with Suki, Toph, and Azula. It seemed weird at first to all be having lunch together, but soon the awkwardness left and was replaced by laughter and good times. Azula was quiet at first, but soon joined in. They were swapping funny stories until Sokka's name was mentioned and Suki started smiling sappily.
"Someone's in love." Katara teased and Suki smiled bashfully. "What is it? Do you have something to tell us?"
"No," Suki said quickly, too quickly. Katara turned to look at Toph who nodded.
"Yup, she's lying," Toph declared and all eyes were on Suki.
"Come on Suki, what gives?" Katara asked, grinning.
"Sokka and I…" she started to say, but the words become jumbled, "we have… I mean he has…" She groaned and instead of continuing, she pulled down the collar of her shirt. Katara gasped.
"What?" Toph asked impatiently, "What is it?"
"It's a betrothal neckless." Katara whispered. There was only a short pause before Katara yanked Suki into a hug.
"I'm glad you approve," Suki said beaming.
"Of course I approve! Congratulations!" Katara squealed. She was so happy for them. "When did this happen?"
"While you all were gone," Suki answered coyly, "Apparently he's been working on it for a while."
"He would have had to. I've seen Sokka 'carve' before and it was awful, but this… this is beautiful."

After lunch, Li came in and explained that it was time to start getting ready. The wedding wasn't until twilight, but with hair, makeup, and dressing…it was (apparently) going to take a while. Earlier in the day, Katara was able to meet up with Cai and see her robes. They were stunning and she couldn't wait to show Zuko. As she reclined in a chair, she tried to ignore being powdered, brushed, plucked, and whatever tortuous things they (her 'beauty team') were doing. Li headed the team and was constantly issuing directions. The only thing that made the activity tolerable was listening to Gran Gran, Suki, Toph, and Azula. No one bothered to correct Gran Gran when she assumed Zuko and Katara had never had 'pre-martial relations.' She doesn't have to find out today… Katara said to herself, thinking about the two extra heartbeats only Toph could sense.

Sitting still, she couldn't tell how much longer until twilight, but Azula informed her that the sun was just starting to set. Not much longer, she thought with a grin.
"Before you're done Katara," Gran Gran said, moving closer, "I have something to add." She placed a large hairpin into Katara's hand. "This was your mother's and mine before hers. I know she was saving it for you until you got married." Katara could feel the tears begin to swell. "Now, now, child," Gran Gran admonished and gently wiped away the moisture, "Don't start crying now, the night is young." Katara sniffed and willed the tears to retreat.
"Thank you Gran Gran," she managed to say.

-Zuko-

The sun was beginning to set when he finally returned to his chambers. It was time to dress. Even though it was traditional for servants to help him dress, he really wanted to do it himself. The tailor had laid out the beautiful robes on the bed, ready to be donned. Although everything seemed like it'd be perfect, he decided that the most important part of the ceremony wasn't the robes, the decorations, or the food. It was the bride. The amazing woman he would soon be able to call his wife. He smiled and began to dress.

Just after he pulled on the silky robe, there was a knock on the door.
"Come in," he said, barely looking up.
"Hey there, Jerkbender," Sokka greeted as he waltzed in.
"Hi Sokka," Zuko replied as he tied the final sash.
"Nice threads, I've never seen you or anyone else in so much color."
"Thanks, I guess. Katara and I chose to have a lot of color at this wedding, beyond those of the traditional Fire Nation or Water Tribe."
"Hmm…" Sokka said, obviously not paying attention, "Anyways I just came in here to have a talk with you before you go and marry my sister." Zuko had been expecting this.
"Is this the part where you tell me if I hurt your sister you'll hurt me?"
"No," Sokka said with a grin, "You have her for that. Look, if you screw up and it hurts her, it will come back to bite you in the blubber." His smile faded and he grew serious, "Katara is a headstrong, demanding, and independent girl who isn't going to take any of your monkey feathers. Even though she's younger than me, she's always acted older. She knows how to take charge and can fight better than almost any man I've met. It's not me you should be afraid of. She'll keep you in line. I'd-"
"Sokka," Chief Hakoda interrupted from the doorway, "Stop scaring the poor man. Go find my soon to be daughter-in-law and find a seat." Daughter-in-law?
"You and Suki huh?" Zuko asked. Sokka didn't reply, but grinned wildly before leaving. Now it was only Chief Hakoda and himself in the room. "Just for the record," Zuko said, "I'm not scared." Hakoda chuckled.
"Of course you are," he said, "I was scared out of my mind before I married Kya and I had known her all my life."
"With all due respect, Sir, I don't think scared is the right word."
"What would you pick then?"
"Nervous maybe…but mostly I'm excited." Hakoda smiled.
"Good answer," he replied, "I guess you don't have to wait much longer." They both looked outside at the sinking sun and growing crowd.

-Katara-

This was it. She was waiting in the wing for her cue. It was really happening. Zuko and she had decided to keep this part of the wedding traditional to Fire Nation customs. This was why she was waiting alone, waiting to start walking and meet Zuko half way in front of all their guests before Aang and the bay. She had been strictly told by Li 'no peeking' before her cue. She seemed to be waiting forever, until suddenly the music started and she froze. Maybe she was just then realizing the momentous event that was about to occur. It wasn't that she was scared or unsure. She was just so happy and relieved that it was time her brain forgot what she was supposed to do. Then she heard the 'oohs' and 'ahhs' that must've been directed at Zuko and that meant… She was late!

-Zuko-

Agni. Agni. Agni. He kept repeating in his head. Where is she? He tried his best to see through the curtain that was hiding her. He wasn't exactly sure what to do, so he kept walking. He seemed to be getting closer and closer to Aang with no sign of her. Suddenly, she burst out behind the curtain. She paused for just a moment and he was able to take in her splendor. Her robes glistened in the dying light and her hair was pulled back, pinned up. Before he could get a better look, she started running. Not walking, not marching, but running towards him. If it wasn't for the giant smile across her face and the tears glistening in her eyes, he might have thought her in trouble. But she wasn't. She was happy. He picked up his pace to match hers so they met in the middle in front of Aang like they were supposed to. The head Fire Sage had been surprisingly understanding when Zuko explained they wanted the Avatar to conduct the ceremony.

-Aang-

He smiled at his two friends, so glad they had found each other. Sure, he might have been a little hurt when Zuko first showed up and Katara took interest, but Katara and he would have never worked. He knew she loved him, as a brother and that was enough for him. Plus, the Spirit of Possibilities told him it was Toph who was destined to be his forever girl. The idea didn't sound nearly as scary as it once might have had. He'd cross that bridge when he came to it, now he had the honor to marry two of his closest friends.
"Thank you all for coming here on this fine evening," Aang said, casting his voice throughout the space. "As you can all see, behind us is a perfect twilight sky. The colors red and blue mix together as the sun's light disappears. Just like the couple before us, combined they are something new… and I have never seen anything more perfect. They complete each other like Ying and Yang, but more than that, they support each other, understand each other, and love each other fiercely." He pulled out the small pouch from around his neck, "In my hand, I hold two symbols of their commitment to one another. It is a Fire Nation Tradition to exchange rings; however, it is a Water Tribe Tradition to say vows. So, as they slip the rings on their soon to be spouse's hand, they will exchange vows." He handed Katara the ring she had chosen for Zuko and Zuko the ring he had selected for Katara. "Zuko," he said with a nod and stepped back slightly to let them have their space. It seemed like a personal thing to do, even with a crowd watching them.

-Zuko-

"I never expected this." He started, "I never thought that one day I'd be lucky enough to call you my wife. I hoped so. I always admired you for your strength, talent, and courage, but there's so much more to you. You are compassionate, attentive, and just…amaz…ing…" His voice broke. Even though he had practiced these lines over and over, saying them to her now changed everything. He took a deep breath before continuing, "I want us to be partners and go through this life together. I promise to support your dreams and be there for you through the best and worst times. Nobody has touched my life like you have. You managed to heal me when I didn't even know I was broken. You have shown me more love than I could ever hope to repay, but I'm honored to spend the rest of my days trying to." There were tears in her eyes and probably in his eyes too as he slipped the band on her finger until it rested above her engagement ring. This was the happiest day of his life.

-Katara-

After he finished she took a moment before starting. It was all just so perfect and beautiful and wonderful. He was as handsome as ever and his golden eyes shone with unshed tears.
"Zuko, I didn't know what I was missing until that night at the Summer Palace. You always made my heart flutter, but that night…" she shook her head, fighting the tears for a moment unable to go on. "I realized I loved you. But," she smiled ruefully, "the first time I said that 'I loved you' I said it without realizing it. It just slipped out. It felt so…right. Natural. It felt like I had been loving you for centuries instead of days. I never thought I'd love anyone as much as I love you. I know I am safe and at home when I'm with you. I want to go through all the ups and downs of this life with you. You love me for who I am and I cannot be more grateful for that. I will love you even after the moon falls out of the sky and the sun fails to rise, until the end of my days." She paused for a moment trying and failing to collect herself, "I know that today is just the start of our adventure together." She slipped the ring on his finger and laced her hands with his.
"I now pronounce you husband and wife," Aang announced from seemingly far away, "You may kiss the bride." He hardly had the words out of his mouth before Zuko put his hands around her waist, pulled her close, and kissed her.

She wrapped her arms around his neck to deepen the kiss. It was the kind of kiss she could get lost in. She felt his damp cheeks against her own as their tears mixed.
"I love you," she whispered as they pulled apart.
"I love you too," he replied, his voice choked with emotion. Slowly, but surely, the sounds of the crowd popped their bubble. They turned to face their family and friends. She heard someone whistle and knew it must have been Toph. Katara grinned, slightly embarrassed at the kiss everyone just witnessed, but when she glanced over at Zuko, her embarrassment faded. He was her husband. He was hers. She was his.

-Zuko-

After the actual ceremony was over, everyone proceeded into the great hall for the reception. It was decorated just like their visions. Banners representing each nation were hung everywhere along with new banners that must have been dyed with their robes, for they sparkled just like them in the torch light. There was music playing, tasty food, and people laughing everywhere. His only wished that he could have enjoyed the wonderful party more. The entire time, all he could think about was her. He kept his hand on her waist as constantly as possible. It was as if he needed a reminder that she was real. That she was there. That she was his.

He watched as Aang and Toph made their way through the tables, chairs, and people.
"Sorry to perform a ceremony and run," Aang said, "But I've got to get Toph over to the oasis."
"Why?" Katara asked, sounding disappointed that they were leaving.
"The Spirit wanted Toph there at midnight, remember?"
"Oh, right."
"Then tomorrow we have to start restoring it, which shouldn't be too hard with all these earthbenders here."
"Would you like us to go with you?" Zuko offered, knowing Katara would have asked the same.
"No, it's okay," Toph replied, "You two enjoy your evening and have a 'fun' night." She nudged him in the arm with a wink. "Although…how much 'fun' can you two have? She's already pregnant."
"She's what!?" yelled Sokka who had been sitting nearby. Thank Agni the party was so busy only they really noticed.
"Shh! Sokka!" Katara said quickly as she tried to grab his arm. Sokka walked right up to Zuko and glared at him.
"I was wrong Zuko," he seethed, "You should be afraid of me. Very afraid."
"Come on Sokka," Katara pleaded as she yanked on his arm, but he didn't budge.
"Knock it off Sokka!" Suki said and stepped in between Sokka and Zuko.
"Exactly how long were you planning to keep this a secret?" Sokka asked, still glaring at Zuko over Suki.
"We were going to tell you." Katara replied.
"When?" Sokka asked, turning on her, "After it's born?" he asked abnormally harsh.
"They," Toph corrected.
"What?" Sokka asked whirling around.
"There are two babies so it's not 'it,' but 'they,'" she explained.
"Now wish them congratulations and come dance with me," Suki said authoritatively.
"Congrats." Sokka mumbled before Suki smiled and pulled him away, winking at Katara as she did so.
"Well," Toph said, "That was interesting. Sorry guys. I guess I should learn to control the jokes… Anyways… we have to get going, it's almost midnight."
"Goodnight Toph," Katara said with no trace of resentment. Maybe she was glad Sokka knew. Maybe keeping such a big secret from her brother had been hard. With a nod, Toph turned and started walking away. Aang shrugged.
"Congrats on the wedding thing again," he said before he turned to follow Toph.
"Walk with me?" Zuko asked Katara softly.
"Always." She replied and put her hand in his. Slowly, they made their way through the crowd.

-Katara-

He didn't have to say anything. She knew where they were headed. The turtle duck pond. They took a seat on the bench. Their bench.
"I have a wedding present for you," she said softly as she stared into his loving face. The full moon above washed everything in a pale light.
"I thought we said no gifts." He replied, "I have you, what more could I need?"
"Either way, here," she withdrew a small ornate box from her robes.
"It's beautifully crafted." He said taking the box.
"It's what's in the box," she said with a roll of her eyes.
"Oh!" he exclaimed, feigning surprise. He carefully took the lid off the small container. His eyes widened as he removed the small vile from within. "When did you get this?" he asked. So you do recognize it she thought, smiling nervously.
"When my father left to ask Yugoda if she'd come to the Eastern Air Temple I gave him a letter explaining our circumstances and I included a request for it."
"Is this what you offered to Yugoda to heal my sister at the temple?" he asked and she nodded. She would have gladly handed it over too, but Yugoda didn't think it'd even be enough. Still though…even in her craziest times, Azula was important to him. "I…uh…" he twisted the small flask between two fingers, appraising its clear contents. He looked up at her in amazement and smiled softly. "Thank you Katara." She had once promised him she'd try. Now, she could finally keep her promise. With the water from the northern Spirit Oasis, she could attempt to heal his scar.

-Zuko-

She reached out her hand expectantly. He knew if he handed the vile over, she would use the water's magical properties on his scar, so he didn't hand it over.
"Thank you for offering this to Yugoda earlier. You're so selfless." He said with a small smile, "This is quite the wedding gift you've given me. It's so thoughtful and so…you. But I can't accept it."
"Why?" she asked surprised, maybe even hurt.
"Because I don't need it. I've come to learn that this," he gestured to his left cheek, "doesn't define me. It is a part of me and it's an important part of my past because without it… I wouldn't have met you." The small space between them on the bench evaporated as she launched into his arms. "Whoa!" he said almost dropping the gift, before he tucked it inside his robes. His heart fluttered when she sighed his name contentedly. For the first time in a very long time, he felt truly lucky. He had her in his life. She was his wife. He might have been lucky to be born, but he knew for sure he was lucky to have Katara.
"I love you," he whispered and hugged her closer.
"Mhmm," she hummed and nuzzled into the side of his neck, "I love you too."
"Until the end of our days?"
"Maybe even after that."

-The End-

a/n
Wow. I can't believe it's the end. I can't believe you all stuck with me this long. I hoped you had as much fun reading as I had writing! This has been an amazing journey. I know I started out crappy (don't deny it, we both know it's true), but you had faith in me and kept coming back to read more. I cannot tell you how grateful I am for all of your support. I've never tackled a project like this before and I know I would have never gotten to where I am without you. THANK YOU!

Now, never fear! You haven't heard the last of me yet! There WILL be an epilogue! It'll be set several years in the future and will probably take me over a week to finish. After that, I'll mark this story as 'complete.' Now, I have been asked if I'd write a sequel and I must respond negatively. I don't think I will write a sequel (Sorry!). However, I've been thinking about a new story. It would be a modern AU story set at a summer camp with some characters as staffers (Zutara) and others as campers (Taang). Thoughts? If I decide to write the story it'll probably be over a month until I get anything published...

Let me know what you think about the above idea and/or what you thought of this chapter in a review(:

Until next time,
ohmyyyfanfiction