Misadventures in Narnia (Eventual Zutara,with a hint of Iroh Wit)

by AaralynnEmereldEyes30

Say,what happens when katara ends up in Narnia with Zuko and his uncle after they were attacked by a rogue firebender and two sandbenders? New adventures, funny moments,learning a whole new world and learning to work together with and get along with her groups personal enemy? and maybe eventual friend ship and or more? what in the world!

5. Chapter 5

Hii everyone and welcome to chapter 5! Please Enjoy/Happy Reading!

Chapter 5

~Edmund Point of View~

I led Iroh swiftly through the giant door that led into the castle before navigating with ease to the study that had been appointed for lessons, discussions, meetings and the like.

It was upstairs, but the hall that led to this set of stairs was the opposite direction from the stairs that led to our bedrooms and another turn beforehand as well.

It was only a few stairs up and it was the first door on the left in the short hall way, the other few rooms in this short hall way were a tucked away library and archives room that conjoined,and another study but smaller than this one.

I stopped and looked at Iroh, " oh,and,um,my war council—they aren't human. They are centaurs."

Iroh's eyebrows rose in a slight silent question.

I gave him a half smile, "You will see."

I opened the solid door composed of beautiful sturdy Narnian wood to reveal the second nicest as well as second largest meeting room here at Cair Paravel.

I took a slow walk around,taking the room in as I have only had a glance into it a time or two before.

Iroh closed the door behind him and did the same, just taking it in at his own pace, seeming to appreciate the room as well.

To my almost immediate right was small writing desk and chair, not too far behind it and closer to the wall was a small rectangular table with several candles on it of varying sizes and a small box of matches for providing light. Behind the small table with the candles was a long and tall book shelf that ran to the back corner and then continued on a few feet on the other side of the corner along the back wall,full of books of all sizes. Next to part of the bookshelf that was on the back wall was two beautiful but simple wooden chairs—available but out of the way. Next to those was log holder that looked like it was made of iron which was shaped almost like a shallow basket but not quite and was full of logs ready to be used. Of course next to the log holder was a simple but grand fireplace of master masonry work with a mantle that matched the wood the door is made of—sturdy and richly toned Narnian wood. On top of the mantle was flint and steel for starting a fire. The hearth came out a little over a foot from the firebox. The firebox itself was not huge, nor fixed up with the works for cooking within, but strictly for warmth.

About a three feet in front of the fire place was a huge and simple rectangular table and a big chair set at the side closet to the fire place. This table was for studying and displaying strategies and scenarios for battle. On the other side of the fireplace, hanging on the wall, was a painted map of Narnia showing all the surrounding nations and lands with Cair Paravel in the heart of it. Underneath the painting against the wall was a third chair that was set, so it was out of the way for the time being. Next to the third chair was a small open shelved wooden supply cabinet that was filled with ink bottles and a container with pens, a stack of blank parchments, a ruler, a magnifying glass, and other writing related objects. Then, coming upon the corner that butts up to the left wall was a corner desk with a chair, and a mounted hanging oil lamp. A few feet away along the left wall was a generously sized very comfortable looking chair, probably suited for sitting down with a book, I'd imagine. At nearly the end of the left wall was another book shelf, though half the size of the other one. Finally, when coming near the door again I saw two wall sconces with thick candles flanking either side of the door.

"What a nice meeting room this is. It seems very well equipped!" Iroh looked at me and said as I had been lazily glancing the room over once more.

I nodded in agreement.

Any other light discussions of this room would have to wait as there was a knock upon the door before it opened and in came three centaurs.

The first one to walk through was Temnara, an average height female centaur with soft brown straight hair that slightly brushed her shoulders. You could see she was strong from the subtle muscles showing in her arms. She had a slightly square face with a more angular jawline. Three freckles lined one side of her nose that gave her a more youthful appearance in contrast with her other sharp features.

Then,Sarto followed in behind her. He was slightly taller and more tanned than Temnara with darker brown wavy hair just reaching his collar bones. His soft golden honey eyes were in striking contrast with his pointed jaw, which had a small 4 pointed star-shaped scar on the left side.

Last,but not least was Oreius, who was no doubt a warrior. He had long dark hair free falling down his back, his skin dark well tanned. His arms were well defined by the muscle there,as well as in his torso which was bare today. He had a strong jaw line and a strong nose with slightly flaring nostrils. His beard was a little longer but still only on his chin. His eyes were brown and wise for his age. He was not old by any means but he was a handful of years older than me, I was certain.

Temnara wore a slightly muted royal blue top with a subtle scoop neckline and simple semi-loose sleeves that stopped a little above her elbows. The shirt stopped at the end of her torso.

Both Temnara,Sarto, and Oreius wore silver pendants that bore the Narnian Crest and underneath, two swords crossed in an "X" at their hilts on a necklace of woven leather cords, and rested a little below their collarbones.

I introduce the three centaurs to Iroh, "Iroh this is Temnara,Sarto,and Oreius. They are the head members of the war council. Sarto,Temnara, Oreius -this is Iroh, one of our guests."

"Nice to meet you all!" Iroh greeted them.

He took in their not so human features in fairly quickly. He may ask me or my siblings questions,later,not doubt,but that's quite normal considering.

Sarto nodded his head slightly, an easy smile gracing his features, "Yes,same to you!"

Temnara echoed his response,though in a slightly more formal tone.

I saw Sarto smirk slightly at Temnara's slightly formal tone,knowing it amused him that she couldn't seem to help but to do it even in more casual setting.

Oreius nodded before saying briefly , "Welcome."

Temnara gave me a look before gesturing toward the table in front of the fire place with a sweep of her hand. "Shall we start,then?"

I nodded once,"Yes, of course," as I led them to the table. I sat at the chair that was already at the table.

Sarto and Temnara stood on either side of me, and Oreius was across the table from me.

I pointed to the chairs behind me along the wall to Iroh as I told him, "feel free to sit,or pull up a chair to observe,whatever you'd like to do you are more than welcome,Iroh."

Iroh opted to stand at the table opposite me near Oreius to observe.

Sarto looked past me to Temnara who nodded her head yes in response to whatever he was questioning her about with the look he gave her. Oreius gestured for them to go ahead when they caught his eye briefly.

Sarto straightened a little as he spoke " Alright, so, for this session we will be going over the construct of our army with you in moderate detail. Best to start from the beginning."

I agreed , "You're right."

And,so the rest of this session of learning with my head of war council was given to me almost back and forth from Temnara and Sarto and with the occasional additional tidbit from Oreius was the following:

Our current rough numbers overall,and what all the different types of soldiers we have.

There are the cavalry men who are the heavy assault front runners in battle. About 20% of the army are composed of cavalry men. Centaurs and mounted riders make up most of this area. Minotaurs are typically heavy assault type fighters; common weapons for them are battle axes and war mauls.

Stern guard is the bulk of the army,usually around 70%, those of which are moderately medium armor usage soldiers—think chain mail,etc.. They are the footmen which commonly use the following : sword and shield, pike,anything they can carry ,really. Some better tempered minotaurs join in here as support, maybe also female minotaurs could be more inclined to focus here.

Vanguard is the assault troops- both heavy and light cavalry is always considered part of the vanguard.

Rear guard is typically made up of lightly armored soldiers such as archers and elite fighters such as the Kings guard. Healers will also be in this rear section.

Fauns are not particularly strong fighters,so more typically in rear guard like the archers or will sport a twin daggers with flanking maneuvers, so not likely ones to sign up for sword and shield.

Griffons are light assault,but usually part of the head runners.

It made enough sense,and it will continue to make more and more sense from here on.

Sarto and Temnara both were looking at me as I had put my ink pen down next to the ink well that was near by. I had taken upon myself to take notes of all this important information.

Sarto asked what they were both probably thinking, " So,any questions your majesty?"

"No,and its Edmund,please Sarto. That is to both of you ,by the way" I made a point to look at Temnara as well while saying that.

"Ah, yes,very well,then," Sarto managed,looking a little sheepish. Temnara nodded in understanding looking serious as usual. Oreius grinned at me from across the table at the younger two centaurs on both sides of me.

Iroh spoke up, "I have a question,if that is alright..."

Sarto,Temnara,and I shifted our gazes to my guest whom was across from us still. Oreius just turned slightly to face him better.

"Yes, of course,Iroh." I answered.

He let his gaze shift more so over at Sarto and Temnara than myself,and eyeing Oreius once to show him he was included in this as well.

"What do you plan to teach Edmund in your next session? If I may, a brief go over of all the different types of weapons that is used and how they are all used and handled and so on might mesh well to follow this one you just had today. That,and tell Edmund about past battles. They would prove helpful for him to know about them. I do hope I am not over stepping by passing along some advice and ideas, I am not doing so coming from a clueless place. I was once a war general back in my world,and like Edmund here I have a mind type of a strategist. I only wish you all the most success, and peace."

Temnara looked slightly surprised,perhaps not so much expecting the question or the sagely advice and genuine well wishing from someone she had just met,and briefly so. Also,even though knowing each other had been extremely brief so far, the level of sincerity was clear.

Sarto looked much less surprised,a easy smile spreading across his face.

Oreius looked pleased, I think he was going to get on with Iroh well.

Temnara spoke. " That is actually a good idea,sir,thank you. We had that planned a little later initially,but you are right. It would actually make much sense to follow this session with an introduction to our weapons and how to handle them."

Sarto came in swiftly after, smiling at his partner before looking back at Iroh. " I agree, the learning from past battles included. Also, Iroh, I assure you that there was no over stepping at all. We appreciate advice from a person of wisdom,and you no doubt have your share,being a general in the past. I for one won't turn away good advice,its not always so easy to come by."

Sarto and Temnara looked at Oreius to see if he had anything to add. Oreius just looked Iroh in the eye and simply added , "I agree."

Iroh looked very pleased that he wasn't over stepping and that his advice had been taken to heart.

He probably doesn't have that so easily with his nephew being his company,and his nephew being a bit hot headed.

"You are most welcome,all three of you. Thank you for having me sit in,and to speak afterward. It is nice to have my advice accepted so warmly." Iroh responded.

"Iroh, feel free to sit in on our next session,if you'd like. You are always welcome to do so." Temnara said.

"I would like that,thank you, just let me know when it will be and I will attend." Iroh told her,smiling at them both.

Sarto smiled again, coming around the table and placed a hand on Iroh's shoulder briefly in a show of fondness. I think Iroh has made another friend, I am not surprised as he is so easy going and just likable in personality. Also not surprisingly it would be Sarto, my outgoing and humor loving war council head. I smiled inwardly at this.

He then looked back at me, "See you Edmund, next session will be sometime next week. We will be at the armory." He paused to look at Temnara and to Oreius and asked , "What day were you thinking?"

Temnara looked at Sarto then Oreius and then finally then at me " Wednesday, if Edmund is able to do so?"

I nodded "Yeah I can do Wednesday... after lunch?"

They all nodded in agreement.

Iroh said, "Great, we will see you two there then."

Sarto then waved at us both as he passed through the door.

Temnara gave us both a small smile, "See you both on Wednesday, have a good rest of your day" before coming around the table,giving me a short nod before heading out the door herself.

Oreius reached forward to shake Iroh's hand. Iroh took it and shook it firmly in turn with a smile. "See you then, I look forward to it" he said before heading out and shutting the door softly behind him.

I turned to Iroh.

"How about I introduce the game of Chess to you,now?" I asked him.

Iroh smiled and gestured for me to lead the way. "Yes, I would enjoy that very much."

We started the short walk to the tucked away library that was at the end of the short hallway. On the way I began to explain the basics of how the chess board is set up and how each of the pieces moves across the board. As we walked into the library I was explaining the objective of the game.

The library was a straight forward but at the same time cozy. Rows of bookshelves, a small chair or pouf cushion tucked away here and there as we walked through towards the illuminated spot you could vaguely catch in the back. After a small turn then a sharper turn we were at the back, the window almost in the corner casting warm light into the room. In front of the window was a small square wooden table with a chess set atop it,and two chairs on either side.

I gestured to a small table in the corner of the room where my chess board was set up. We each took a seat, Iroh playing black and white for myself.

"Now, since I am white I will go first." I told Iroh., as I moved a pawn two spaces forward.

He nodded and studied the board for a moment before doing the same a few pawns down.

"Back to me," I said and moved my knight out setting it up to take his pawn. Iroh had a look on his face that made me think he was reviewing the few rules we covered in him mind before he made his next move.

The first game was laid back, just for learning. I ended up winning after too long.

Iroh was enjoying himself,picking up the game rather well. It was good company between us.

Iroh helped set the board back up for the next game,only this time the white pieces were on his side of the board,so he got the first move this game.

He was casual,but confident enough already. I smirked, happy to know I would have a well match in him in playing chess.

I won the second game,but Iroh made it a close game. He won the third game. After our third, we both slid back out chairs and got up to stretch.

I asked him after we were done stretching. "So,how do you like Chess?"

He chuckled as he answered. "I love it,and it makes me want to introduce a game to you, from my world. It is also a strategy game,called Pai Sho. Do you think if I draw out the game board and pieces that we could have a humble set made for us?"

I nodded "Of course,that's what I had to do with my Chess set we just used" gesturing down at the set we just played with. "Let's go back to the study and grab you some parchment and the pen and ink if you'd like to do while its on your mind and we are practically right there."

"Alright then!" he responded, a jovial tone in his voice, as he gestured for me to go first. I could tell he was looking forward to it,and I must admit,so was I.

I turned and backtracked out of the library and back to the study,straight to the supply cabinet,grabbing the supplies for Iroh and setting them down on the corner desk that was just to our left.

I pointed to the hanging oil lamp that was mounted to the wall near the desk, "Ignite that if you need to."

Iroh glanced up before sitting down at the desk, then leaned close toward the lamp and snapped his fingers just above the short opening at the top, a small flame jumping down to the wick and casting it alight. Its glow illuminating the desk. He nodded briefly in satisfaction before getting started.

"How about I go send for some tea while you get started?" I offered,thinking it might hit the spot as he takes his tea quite seriously,and probably quite frequently if he has a say.

Iroh looked up at me and a broad smile broke across his features, "that would be wonderful!" he exclaimed before turning back to the desk.

I smiled to myself as I swiftly exited the study to go request tea for us to be brought up to the main study,as I had started to call it as most knew where it was and it was the biggest and easiest to access from the rest of the castle as it was at the beginning of the short hallway the studies and libraries were on.

I made my way down and around to the kitchen, knocking on the door before opening it enough to pop my head in to grab someones attention who wasn't busy.

Yuko was closest so I decided to go for him. I called softly " Yuko!"

He turned around from what he was doing to see me. " Yes ,your majesty, what do you need this afternoon?" he asked casually,though still at the same time using a form of a title. I must admit I was amused.

"I was wondering if you could put on some tea for Iroh and I and bring it up to the main study,please?"

I asked.

"Certainly, what kind of tea were you thinking today?" he asked as he grabbed a kettle to put on.

"The Blue Lady, please, and some croissants if you made any today." I answered easily as I had already been thinking about it on my way down. It was a classic tea blend,though perhaps not as well known as Earl Gray or English Breakfast, and I thought Iroh would enjoy it.

He moved over to a counter to check a platter full of something I couldn't see from here and nodded. " I will have it up soon."

I flashed him a small appreciative smile before pulling my head back through the door and heading back up to Iroh.

Iroh was right where I had left him,tho now a 2nd parchment in with his Pai Sho drawings and details,the first page carefully set to his left side to finish drying.

He was good.

I spoke quietly so as not to startle him and mess up his work . "Tea and croissants will be up soon. I asked for a new tea for you to try. Still in the classic family,though a little lesser known than the others."

Iroh paused what he was doing carefully before lifting his head to look over his should towards me slightly. "I can't wait then! I am almost done. I am writing out the smaller pieces and how many of each are needed,and their rough sizes."

"Good." I responded softly as he turned back to finish. I patiently watched from the side.

After a few minutes he set the pen down and slid back the inkwell so it wouldn't spill, and placed the page carefully next to the first one. He then turned his chair so it was facing the rest of the room rather than the corner. I grabbed one of the chairs that was along the back wall and sat next to him as we waited in comfortable silence for the parchments to dry and for the tea to be brought up.

Not long after a brief,soft knock sounded on the door before it swung open to reveal Yuko carrying a tray with the tea kettle,2 cups, and all the tea trimmings and two spoons for stirring,and last but not least fresh soft croissants.

I went across the room and grabbed the small writing table and brought it over to our chairs for Yuko to place the full tray upon.

Iroh smiled up at Yuko and commented heartily, "Thank you very much,it looks and smells wonderful!"

Yuko beamed at him then nodded at me before turning and leaving.

I sat down and pulled the table slightly closer to our chairs. I brought the cups forward and grabbed the tea kettle and started to pour us both some tea, leaving room for sugar and whatnot.

Iroh grabbed the cup that was closer to him and added a small amount of honey and stirred it in before lifting his cup to his face and inhaling a waft of steam from his cup to smell the new tea. He let out an appreciative sigh before taking a small sip.

"Delectable!" he exclaimed softly to himself.

I couldn't help myself when a small smile made its way to my lips as I watched him beside me as I slowly stirred some sugar into my own cup.

"You like it,then?" I asked even though I was pretty sure I knew the answer. "Its one of my favorites." I told him.

"Yes, I enjoy the hints of several fruits, if I am not mistaken." he responded.

"What a knowledgeable palate you've got there. You're right about it- its a black tea with bits of pineapple and strawberry." I told him.

He smiled behind his cup as he took another sip.

We enjoyed the entire pot of tea and the fresh croissants in the matter of hardly any time at all.

I slid the table away from us as Iroh turned to check on the drying parchments.

"They're ready!" he told me eagerly as he glanced over at me,one of the pieces in his hand still from his inspecting.

"Great!" I told him while getting up and setting my chair back along the back wall, "let's go ahead and take these to the craftsman I know to get it started on."

Iroh leaned in toward the hanging oil lamp,blowing out the flame before gesturing for me to lead the way, both parchments in hand.

We left the main study,shutting the door softly behind us.

-back with Katara and the others in the garden-

-Lucy Point of View-

After Edmund and Iroh started to walk away together, I turned to Peter and Katara who were looking at some of the flowers together and talking. It seemed like Peter was telling her about some of them.

"Okay,you two," I started, my hands clasped behind my back in a semi casual way,though my tone probably gave way to possibly being up to something. The both stopped and turned to look at me expectantly.

"Let's go do something anywhere but here- we need a refreshing distraction, I think!" I finished with a grin.

They looked a little surprised. After a few seconds Peter had a look in his eye as if he was onto me,but he didn't do anything,he was probably curious as to what my idea was.

Katara shook her head a bit as if to shake the thoughts of what had happened between her and Zuko from her mind. She then smiled brightly at me before asking, "What did you have in mind?"

A huge grin spread across my face. "Well, I was thinking we could go check out the small row of market stalls up near the wharf. What do you say,Pete,Katara?" I explained and asked,finishing by looking back and forth between the two of them,my voice hopeful and filled with a bit of anticipation as well.

Peter looked over at Katara looked at me with relief and eagerness all over her face. "Let's go,Lucy!" she said with a hint of excitement in her voice.

Peter let out a breath, looking almost amused. "Alright then. Lucy,might as well lead the way since it's your idea."

I flashed him a smile before turning to Katara and and taking her hand in mine as I started walking out of the garden and in the direction that the wharf and nearby market stalls were. Her fingers closed around mine in response almost instantly.

So hand in hand I took Katara,and Peter who was just behind us towards the new wharf that led to the small and up coming market row that was just past it a ways.

I heard the ocean in the distance and quickened my pace,excited to be closer,and I knew Katara would appreciate a glimpse of a big body of her element being so close.

Finally as I heard a gull cry in the distance,signaling how close we were now, I could smell the salty air on the gentle breeze that blew gently across my face. I stopped to take in the breeze,leaning in slightly for a second to inhale the salty air,Katara stopped perfectly in sync with me,we didn't tug each each other at all when we suddenly stopped. I peeked up at Katara who had her eyes closed and a smile on her face as she took in the salty air that the breeze was gently blowing across her face. I squeezed her hand excitedly. She opened her eyes and beamed down at me,her eyes shining brilliantly with anticipation.

Peter stayed silent,but I could picture him smiling fondly at me from behind.

"We are almost there!" I told her in an excited hushed tone. She squeezed my hand this time,urging me happily, "let's go,then!" I giggled and we took off again towards the wharf which was right before the small path that led to market row.

Up ahead and to our right I could see where the land butted up with the planking of the edge of the ship wharf. There were a few people loading stuff off of a smaller ship that was docked at the nearest spot on the side we were coming up to. On the other side at the last spot there was another ship that was slightly bigger.

I waved as we passed by to those whose attention we caught by walking by and had looked up.

I told Katara as I steered her easily onto the walking path , "we can stop back by and enjoy the ocean for a moment if you want,on our way back."

She glanced at me as we came upon a cluster of trees on our right. "That would nice." she told me, appreciation gleaming in her voice.

Soon after we came to another cluster of trees that was at the beginning of a very

small hill. It was a gentle slope, so we could walk it easily. We took our time,enjoying the walking.

After we crested the top we paused and looked ahead.

Peter finally spoke, "Thank you for not blasting through the walking path and over this hill full speed this time,Luce."

I looked at him and saw him grin wickedly, picking on me lovingly.

Last time we were here I was so excited I ran ahead of everyone to see the progress of everything. When my siblings had caught up they admitting to trying to keep up the first thirty or so seconds then gave up, already slightly winded from the walk then trying to keep up unexpectedly,and then just ending up following behind at a human speed.

I stuck my tongue out at him ," oh ha ha, Pete!"

I heard Katara chuckle beside me. Peter just shrugged good naturedly. I playfully rolled my eyes.

As we started down the other part of the little hill and eased to where it flattened out I filled Katara in on the whole thing Peter and I had been going on about.

She laughed and told me as we made our way to the first of the market stalls "that reminds me of Aang. That is something he would do,get excited and rush ahead." I smiled and told her , " he sounds real fun."

"He is." she confirmed.

I let go of her hand so we could stop and look at the set up ahead of us for a second before starting to visit each merchant.

The different merchants each had their own style of set up and some were already more permanent than others, and all looked worthy of exploration.

We walked up to the closest one.

It was mostly canvas and ropes set up to form a simple but sturdy canopy over all the merchandise.

There was a small rectangle table with folded knitted goods such as socks,hats,scarves,simple blankets lined up across it. A small stand in front of the table and to the side of it had a large shallow basket filled with baby socks/booties and mittens of various sizes. A thin rope was strung from one end to the other of the set up and hung up across the line were dresses and skirts. In the corner on a stool sat a girl,a bit older than Susan. Her name was Aggie. She had soft golden hair and soft beautiful features to match,giving her a certain classic charm to her.

She looked up from her mending of a garment when she heard us approach. When she saw it was us she got up and set down her work on her stool so she could come over and greet us.

"Queen Lucy,King Peter, how nice to see you again! Welcome back!" she greeted us happily.

"Hi Aggie, nice to see you again, your set up looks great!Glad you got your new canvas canopy set up nicely now." Peter said with an easy smile as he looked over her set up is completed upgrade she had told us she was looking forward to when we met her about two weeks ago.

"Oh,thank you, its great so far, they fisherman at the other end helped me check the secure points last week."

"That's great!" I told her excitedly before turning to Katara who had just been observing our interactions with Aggie so far.

"Aggie,this is my friend Katara, actually that's why we're here again. I wanted to show her around." I filled the seamstress in.

Katara stepped closer to her as she said "hi, nice to meet you Aggie."

Aggie responded "You,too,Katara!"

Aggie then swept her arms wide and said while stepping to the side slightly to present her craft , "Welcome to my set up, officially! Let me know if you have any questions about anything. I made it all myself,and will mend stuff for trade or barter!"

Katara stepped forward,her eyes roaming over every piece with appreciation for her talent. She smiled fondly when she saw the knitted mittens in the basket,probably reminding her of her cold homeland.

Afterwards,her gaze kept going back to a green dress that was on the end.

Aggie saw and took it down from the line so she could get a better look, handing it to her gently as she softly told her , "oh this would look lovely on you, would you like to hold it up to you to see in a mirror?"

As soon as the dress was in Katara's hands Aggie was already going after something that was in the back of her stuff.

Suddenly she gave a small grunt and then immediately after a small exclamation of triumph as she produced a mirror from a pile of stuff that was stacked on a crate. She then went up to Katara,holding the mirror in front of her so Katara could see.

Aggie was right,it would look beautiful on Katara. The dress was an emerald green with a subtle sweetheart neckline. The sleeves looked like they would fall to a little bit past the elbows,and just about an inch or 2 below the shoulder were a few buttons. The sleeves also opened up a bit past the elbow. I couldn't figure out why there were buttons on the dress there of all places. Apparently neither could Katara,because that's what came out of her mouth as she was looking it over as it was held against her in front of the mirror.

"What are these buttons for,on the sleeves,Aggie?" she asked as she looked down at them in her reflection again.

Aggie set the mirror down beside her and came over to Katara, "I will show you.." she said as she held out her hands patiently for the dress. Katara handed it to her and watched. Aggie took one of the sleeves and gently began undoing the buttons. The bottom part came off completely. She held up the dress showing the side with mos of the sleeve now in her other hand. "It's so you can remove the sleeves if you want to. I thought it would be nice to have to option and came up with this design. They are secure but attach and detach easily."

"Wow,that's your design,Aggie? That's fantastic." I enthused.

She nodded her head yes,looking very pleased.

Katara spoke up, "I already liked it a lot at first glance,now I love it somehow even more. I love that you created that option,and easily too!"

Aggie got an excited gleam in her eye. "How about trying it on,Katara?" she asked in a slightly hushed excited voice.

Katara wore a conflicted look on her face like she was excited and trying not to be excited and just straight up hope,like she just couldn't help it regardless of what she wanted.

I gently gave her an encouraging nudge to the arm while saying excitedly, "well go on!"

She glanced over at me and saw my huge grin and instantly started grinning herself. My excitement was infectious which helped hers bubble over against any reasoning her mind was trying to hold over her.

"Okay!" she agreed in a soft but excited exclamation as she started to slip the dress on over what she was wearing carefully. While she was doing that Aggie set the mirror down on the crate upright so it was a good height for Katara to see herself better and it was easier to do that than to try to hold it just herself.

Once Katara shimmied the last bit into place and let the dress fall to her legs she looked up at the mirror,stepping closer instantly to inspect herself in the dress. She would tilt this way and that and give a half twirl to cause the end of the dress to flare out softly and swish back into place afterwards.

I approached her, placing a hand on her forearm before looking up at her. "Katara,this dress really suits you. You look beautiful! It also looks so pretty with your special necklace."

Katara looked down at me and one of the prettiest smiles I had seen on her face slowly broke across her lips. "Thank you, Lucy,that means a lot to me. I love it,and I love that you mentioned that,because you're right about it! Its very comfortable,too!" I could hear the heartfelt emotion edging into her voice as she told me that.

My grin grew wider if at all possible. "Good..." I said as I reached into my dress pocket, " cause I am getting you that dress,Katara." I told her with a slightly mischievous tone in my voice,which also some simple finality as well.

I took advantage of the few precious seconds that it was taking her brain to catch up with what I had just told her to turn to Aggie and ask , "is four gold enough for that dress, Aggie?"

Aggie looks over to see four gold pieces in the palm of my outstretched hand. "Oh, um, yes, Miss Lucy,that would be perfect!" she responded as she gently took the four coins from my palm.

Katara whirled around to face the young queen and the seamstress, "Lucy! You didn't have to do that for me!" surprise and mild shock on her face as what her new friend had just done for her.

I held out my hand for her to take. She glanced down and then took my hand before looking into my eyes again. "Katara,stop. I wanted to get it for you, you're my friend! So please don't protest this, just teach me how to do a Water Tribe hair style or something. I would love something like that." I paused before asking, okay?"

I could see she was still trying to let the conflicting feelings about this go, then finally after a few seconds she squeezed my hand and told me with a great amount of sincerity in her voice,and a bit of happiness creeping in as she accepted this more and more, "Okay!Thank you,Lucy!"

She hugged me before stepping back and gently taking the dress back off and folding it and draping in the crook of her arm and then got the disconnected sleeve from Aggie as she thanked her for the dress.

Peter reappeared to tell Aggie bye. He ended up hanging back the moment he noticed it was going to turn into a girls moment.

We walked over to the next set up which had a similar construct of nice canvas canopy and ropes n the like, and a different shelf system for the items. There was two tiers of surface and on each level were different items. On the highest level were baskets of different shapes and sizes that were hand woven. A few even had lids. On the second tier was ropes. There was different sizes of ropes, and they were all wound neatly and the outer end looped around it and the tail end showing through to keep it on place. They laid in a neat row along the entire tier from largest to smallest. There was a small strip of wood running along the front of the lower tier,nailed into place,and from that piece were protruding nails every handful of inches. Hanging off each nail were small fishing nets. Behind the top tier was a girl sitting in chair, she was watching us as we eyed her merchandise. When we met her gaze she greeted us, "Hello and welcome. I made everything you see before you. Do you have any questions?"

Peter spoke first this time, " hi, nice to meet you. I'm Peter,and this is Lucy my sister,and this is our friend Katara."

Recognition lit up in her eyes once she heard both of our names, I think.

"Oh, your Majesties,nice to meet you!" she greeted us almost in a rush as she stood to seem more presentable if I had to take a guess.

"Nice to meet you, and you don't have to use formalities here,please" I assured her.

She paused,unsure for a second. Katara nodded her head encouragingly from beside me.

She relaxed a fraction as she said, "oh alright,if that's what you wish. I'm Clara by the way, I just got set up this past week."

"It is" I assured her again,smiling at her, "nice to meet you Clara. Your work is really impressive."

"Thank you, my aunt and uncle taught me." she told us,the love for those who taught her her craft evident in her voice.

Katara looked over the baskets appreciatively. "Your tight weaving technique is incredible,Clara."

Clara beamed at her. "Thanks so much, I've been working hard at it since I was practically a child."

Peter looked over a small fishing net and nodded to himself as if making a related mental note to himself.

"Hey are you two ready to go on to the next one?" I asked them both. They both looked up at me from what they were each inspecting and softly said "yeah" in unison on accident. We all ended up giggling at the happen stance.

We bid Clara goodbye and thanked her for her time before stepping out from under her set up and walking up to the next one, which cornered up with Clara's.

The next one had a nice canopy set up over a higher up rectangular table and it had soft blue cloth covering. On the table was hand carved wooden utensils such as serving spoons, ladles, bowls,and cups,and even two serving platters. On the end were small carved figurines of various animals and creatures including a faun,and a centaur, and a little otter. Behind the carved figurines were two cups,both filled with carved sets of wooden chopsticks.

In front of the table was staggered shelves. On the shelves were all sorts knives and small swords of various shapes and sizes,some of more detailed designs,some more simple but still the craftsman ship spoke for itself. Some had carved wooden handles, others had a stone built into the end of the handle or on the side,depending on the shape of the handle. A few were almost dainty,and a few were intimidating with a long blade with a drastic curve towards the pointed ends. On the lowest shelf was necklace pendants of many different shapes and sizes,even a few with stone added to them somehow, and a few shawl and cloak pins with shapes on the ends.

"Oh! Hello there!" I greeted them pleasantly.

One was a bit older than the other, a little older than our parents if I had to imagine somewhat precisely,the other was mid-twenties perhaps. Both had short reddish brown hair, average features from what I could tell.

They stood and the older one greeted us first. "Hi, and welcome to our booth. I am Cyrus, and this is my nephew Holland."

Then the younger one,Holland, gave us a casual wave of his hand as he said, "hello there."

We all greeted them back in kind,and I thanked them for welcoming us.

Everything was made so well. I loved the hand carved cups and bowls especially, and I saw Peter inspecting an interesting looking knife up close. Katara was looking casually at the jewelry. I was just taking it all in myself. They were new arrivals just like Clara,so we didn't get to meet them when we first came.

Cyrus spoke up softly from his chair, " I do the blacksmith work,and the wood carving is Holland's doing."

We nodded our heads,still looking . I saw Peter glance up from what he had in his hands and said ," You're both really good."

Holland smiled and Cyrus gruffed out a humble 'thanks.'

"Peter," I spoke up to get my brother's attention. He looked up as he carefully set a knife down.

"We will have to come back with everyone soon to see the newest merchants. I'm seeing a lot of nice things,the others might be interested in something."

Peter smiled, "Agreed."

Katara walked over to me, "You guys ready to move on to what's next?" she asked with a relaxed smile.

"Oh,sure." I said as I took one last glance around and waving bye to Cyrus and Holland.

Peter nodded in agreement as he did the same. Katara waved and called over her shoulder as she took lead to the next merchant, "bye,thanks guys."

Next was a beautiful produce stand. There were long shallow baskets arranged in a row down a rectangular table that was on the longer side, and in front of it was a slightly smaller and shorter rectangular table with round baskets in a row down the the table. All the baskets were filled with beautiful and unique looking produce. Some of it I didn't have a clue what it was, but it all looking so very good. It smelled heavenly,all the smells melding together. On the very end of the smaller table was two neat rows of

jars filled with jams or preserves of several different colors. A light colored canopy was strung up over the two tables.

A large cart was behind the tables, the end facing the tables and on the end of it,atop a blanket for cushioning were two people. A young man and woman were sitting together talking quietly and laughing,their feet dangling off the edge. They looked so happy and charming.

They looked up when they noticed us approaching,smiling at us together from where they were sitting. The woman leaned over and gently kisses the man on the cheek before hopping down and making her way over. "Hi," she greeted us warmly, "welcome to our produce stand. We grow and sell produce that's specific only to our area. We are from a small area between the mountain range right next to Anvard and the river that passes through Archenland called Day Break's Valley. Oh, also I'm Thistle and this is my fiance Jax!"

she finished by gesturing to the man behind her who was still at the cart where they were sitting. He looked up from what he was doing and waved at us with a smile.

Katara smiled at her, "Thank you, I'm Katara,and this is Lucy and her brother,Peter. It's nice to meet you both."

I waved and told them hi,and Peter echoed me.

Katara asked while gesturing to all the beautiful food that was in front of us. "This all looks so good,would you mind telling us about your produce,Thistle?"

"Oh,sure!" she said before pointing out everything in the baskets and telling us the name and the taste and sharing what her favorites were and her favorite ways to prepare them. It was a lot to take in,and it all sounded delicious.

It was fascinating to hear about the unique and interesting produce that was grown solely in a single region within this world.

We ended up choosing a few produce to take back and all try together.

Katara chose a few gimba, which was a fruit that was round in shape,dark yellow in color, roughly the size of a passion fruit. It bares from a tree,and has a pleasant vanilla flavor with hints of raspberry and sweet violet as well. The texture of the flesh was similar to that of a plum.

I chose honey berries. Thistle described that when you pop them in your mouth and when you bite down to chew you get a burst of flavor in your mouth. And they are edible before they are ripe when they are green but they are sour. I'm really excited to try them. They are really cute looking too,yellow with little orange stripes on them.

Peter chose to try bubble berries,which the name made me giggle even though its accurate. The bubble berries are a bright sky blue little round berry,and when ripe has a bit of a shine to it making it resemble bubbles. We were told they taste akin to a mixture of the sweetness of an apple and the tartness of a raspberry.

Last,but not least we decided on a jam together. We asked which was her favorite and went with that which was gimba.

So with several linen draw string bags to carry our produce in and Peter just carried the jar in his hand,and three silver coins later,we were parting ways from the sweet couple and their produce.

Next one was at the other end of the corner but on this side, and it was the Herbalists which we had briefly met before,and their sweet little boy.

A canopy top with slanted canvas sidings to match made up the frame of this space that was tied and secured fairly well,protecting from the winds that come through. There was a table and on it were rows and rows of jars mostly the size of a short jam jar,maybe a little smaller,and a handful were smaller than those. There were also around six jars that were quite large. All of the jars were filled with dried herbs or a liquid mixture with herbs in them,or something else entirely. All of them were labeled though,which was helpful. On the end of the table was a small basket with loose leaf drawstring bags,some a little bigger than the rest. In front of the basket were a few small mortar and pestle sets,several ceramic, and one that was wooden. On the very end was a small,lone and cute little tea set which consisted of a teapot, two cups and matching saucers. It was blue with gentle white swirls on it,and a few flower petals swirling across the bottom edges.

Behind the table on a simple bench sat a man,woman and little boy. The boy had a plant in his hand and it seemed as though the man and woman were taking turns teaching him about the plant that he was holding. It was sweet. He was paying such good attention.

I called out to them as we officially approached their table of goods. " Madeline,Magnus,Onfim- how nice to see you!"

Madeline and Magnus looked up and smiled when they saw me,and then from the gentle nudging and pointing towards us, little Onfim looked over at as and grinned before hopping down from the bench before his parents did and came around the table to greet us. His parents got up and came to greet us as well.

"Lucy!" Onfim called happily when he got close,and when he saw Peter he called his name out happily as well, "Peter!"

I broke into a grin , "Hi, Onfim!". I saw Peter wave at him from beside me.

"Onfim,Magnus,Madeline, I have a friend I would like you all to meet." I told them after his parents had uttered soft hellos to us while their son had captured our immediate attention.

Katara stepped up beside me, "Hi!"

"This is Katara." I introduced them.

Madeline and Magnus' 'hi,nice to meet yous' overlapped with their son's excited burst , "hello!"

as he came right up to Katara to meet her. He was looking up at her with with a huge toothy grin on his face.

Katara leaned down slightly, "Hi Onfim, nice to meet you!"

His grin widened if at all possible before he took off behind the table.

We looked at his parents who smiled and shrugged before trying to look over their shoulders to see if they could see what he was up to. They turned back to us and shook their heads. Madeline leaned forward and said in a hushed voice , " I have no idea what he is up to,but I am curious to find out,so lets wait for a minute if you don't mind." We nodded our heads in agreement,smiles and curious expressions on all of our faces.

Onfim reemerged with his hands behind his back and looked absolutely adorable and up to no good.

He rushed up to Katara and me and handed us each a single small flower. He backed up and looked at both of us with a smile and a hopeful look on his face. We both shook off our surprise and smiled back at him.

Katara looked down at hers, which was a small blue and purple wild flower before holding out her other hand for Onfim. He stepped close to her and took her hand. She looked into his eyes and told him, "Its beautiful, thank you,Onfim!" Onfim's cheeks turned pink "Welcome."

I looked down at mine which was a lovely little yellow flower. "Hey, Onfim, I really like mine as well. Thank you. That's so sweet!"

He turned towards me, slipping his hand from Katara's. "Welcome,Lucy," his grin never leaving his face.

He looked so pleased with himself. His parents chuckled behind him,causing him to turn,now with a slightly questioning look on his face. "No,its alright,Onfim,that was very sweet of you." his mother assured him,sweeping his hair back with a hand. Onfim smiled,and settled on the ground at his parents feet,and proceeded to contently watch us.

"Anyway", Madeline started, "welcome again, all of you," then looked at Katara, "My husband and I are herbalists. Everything on this table we have grown and harvested and transformed into tinctures,salves,and tea blends,and sometimes even a few spice blends."

"Oh,wow,that's great. What's your favorite herb?"

Madeline smiled, "Rosemary, I even have a few pieces I fresh cut a few days ago,not just dried sprigs that are in the jars, if you are interested. Its the best fresh and sprinkled on to bread dough before going into the oven."

My mouth watered. Peter swallowed beside me, it had made him hungry.

Katara replied, "oh that sounds delicious." She turned to me and Peter, "Hey do you think we could get some of the fresh rosemary she mentioned? I'd love to try it on fresh bread like she mentioned."

Peter said , "sure, before sliding a hand into his pocket and producing two silver coins, "Madeline,is this enough for some of that fresh rosemary you mentioned?"

"Yes," she said as she accepted the silver coins and passed them off to her husband while she went behind the table to retrieve the fresh rosemary. He stepped behind the table to set the coins somewhere for safe keeping.

She came back with three long pieces that looked to be almost a foot long each,maybe a bit less,tied together with a piece of twine. She handed it over to Katara by a loop that was tied on the end of the twin for easy carrying since rosemary that was fresh was a little pokey and one might not be too keen to just grab it with their hands.

Katara thanked her.

They thanked all of us in turn.

Katara adjusted the stuff she was holding and sniffed the air and smiled. "Mmm, I can smell smoked fish!"

Peter sniffed the air then said " oh I think I do as well. Let's go check it out then."

I agreed , "okay", then turn back to Madeline,Magnus and Onfim. "Bye you guys,thank you! We will see you soon!"

Katara waved to them , " Bye,it was nice meeting you! Thanks again,Onfim,for my flower."

Onfim waved at us along with his parents who also said "you too" in response to Katara in unison.

Peter waved , "Bye you guys!"

Then on to the next and last spot of the Market Row, which was the two main fishermen were.

We had met them in passing last time we were here checking it out but didn't have a chance to really interact with them.

I saw one of them in the stand preparing fillets of fish with salt as we approached. He looked up as we got closer and smiled in greeting "Hello!"

"Hello! I don't know if you remember us-" I started

"Yeah! You're Peter and Lucy-I never forget a face. But I don't know your friend"

"I'm Katara" Katara provided with a small smile.

"Pleasure to meet you! I'm Otis!" he said wiping his hands on his apron after setting the cutting board to the side behind the counter that had the massive butcher block on top.

We heard some rummaging in the back behind a thin cloth screen and a voice asking "Who is it, Otis?"

The other man came into view from behind the screen. He had a tall stocky build with scraggly brown hair and they looked like they could be twins.

"and this is Osmund, my brother. Take a minute from doting on that cat and say hi to Katara, Lucy, and Peter."

"That cat is better company than you" Osmund said with a smile "Otis here is the people person, I'm the one with all the stories though" he said with a wink.

"You have a cat?" Katara asked.

Otis drew back the curtain and we could see a very pregnant cat curled up in a makeshift bed.

"Yup! Her name is Tundra. She's a little skittish, but we started feeding her and took her in-she does a great job at keeping the birds and rodents at bay. She's practically family."

"She's so cute!" Katara exclaimed.

"I bet she loves all the free fish" Peter said gesturing around.

I laughed. Hanging on an a-frame rack to the right of us was a huge variety of smoked fish. There was so much fish and everything smelled so good, they clearly knew what they were doing. They even had buckets of iced and salted fish that they were preparing. My mouth was watering just looking around.

Katara's stomach growled. "I guess everyone heard that" she said sheepishly, fighting a blush that was starting to creep up her cheeks already.

The brothers laughed heartily and Otis said "Well, you've come to the right place."

"Well, what would you like,Katara?" Peter asked her as he watched her combing over all the choices with her eyes already.

She pulled her gaze away from the bountiful fish to give Peter a grateful look before turning towards our hosts and asking them, " What are your personal go-to's, your favorites?"

Otis stroked his chin thoughtfully for a second before walking over to the a-frame. He cut down a huge fish from the line up and walked over to the counter and laid the fish across it before grabbing a knife and slicing a small piece off of its side that was facing up and handed it to Katara who had stepped right up to the edge of the counter from our side to observe. "Give this a try" he told her.

She took a sniff before trying it. She chewed slowly with a thoughtful look on her face. She looked back at Otis. "That's some good fish! A bit on the milder side, slightly sweet and meaty texture. I will definitely take a cut of this."

Otis nodded, giving a smile as he proceeded to cut a proper filet cut from both sides of the fish. Then cut the tail. He then instructed, " This is cut into rounds called 'wheels'. This particular one can but cut into two smaller ones." He paused to show with the knife where to best cut it into two 'wheels' and which way to cut he indicated. "I am also going to tell you how to best fix it. Cook it in the oven in a dish with a lid on it. Add a little water to the fish inside the dish and you will get some of its juice flavor revitalized and serve with potatoes or rice to absorb the flavor."

Osmund stepped up beside Katara and placed a hand on her shoulder as he promised her, "you will love it."

She smiled at him and laughed good naturedly, "oh, I don't doubt that! It sounds delicious!"

Otis grabbed brown paper and wrapped the cuts of fish for Katara and tied both off with twine and stacked them together before handing it over to Katara.

I stepped up,pulling some coins from my dress pocket as I did so. "How much for those cuts,Otis?"

He looked at his brother who shrugged. He shrugged lightly as he finally said, " two silver would be fine. Thank you."

I handed over two silver to Osmund . "Thank you both,we will definitely be back."

Katara smiled at both of them,her fish now between her hands securely, " thank you both, I look forward to trying another one next time—soon."

"You are very welcome" Otis told her. Osmund chimed in , " we look forward to it."

Katara looked at Peter then to me, "are you two ready to head back? I think this was what I needed after Zuko happening. Thanks."

I couldn't help but smile as I hugged her. "Yeah, I'm ready,and no problem,that's why I chose this place to venture to."

Peter nodded. "Yeah. And you're welcome."

We all waved at the two kind brothers before turning and heading back to the hill that was the edge of the path that we took. The walk back was pleasant and a little less fast paced than the excited walk toward market row.

As we passed by the wharf again and the fresh warm salty breeze caught us again we paused again to enjoy it before it past. Katara let out a contented sigh as we started walking again.

"Do you want to go down closer to the water?" I asked her softly,remembering that I mentioned we would stop by the ocean a little longer near the wharf when we came back.

She shook her head, " no that's okay, just maybe we visit it soon in the next few days would be nice."

Peter came up beside her and said " I think we can manage that." with a half smile.

She nodded,looking even happier.

She looked over at us smiling,the wind blowing small wisps of hair from her braid,making her look care free and happy like the fresh breeze.

"That salty warm breeze is part of what home smells like,for me." she told us. A glimmer of a sad look passed her features briefly before she was smiling again just like barely a moment ago.

Finally we were back on the flatter grasses that surrounded most of immediate Cair Paravel. Rounding that familiar corner that led to the huge door we had been taking our guests through the most to enter the castle. I opened the door and led the way in.

back to Zuko,Zuko's Point of View

I had ended up at the edge of the woods. I was angry and frustrated. Walking away from them was the best thing to do. It helped burn off some of the edginess I was still feeling. I was also embarrassed because of one she broke blood,and two how I snapped at her. I had mentally went back to our world where and when we were at odds. Where she was the enemy by association with the avatar.

I shook my head,knowing I needed to clear it before I walk back. I am not exactly fond of her but I really don't want anything close like that to happen again. I found a small boulder to sit on. I let out a long sigh. It was cool to the touch. I re-positioned myself so that I was sitting in front of it and leaning my back against it,relaxing into it and using its cool surface to cool my body down. I was still very hot from my bending and the exertion, and being angry and all that didn't help either.

After a few minutes of just sitting and trying to let my mind wander to better things, I decided that this was a nice thinking spot.

I summoned a small flame in my palm while thinking, just watching the small flame dance within my palm as I let myself think. My thoughts drifted to the past day, so much had happened in only a day.

Waking up to the water bender trying to get our attention in the desert. I also honestly cannot remember how we had gotten there at all,let alone her being with us as well. And,then, everything else afterwards. It felt like so much more than a day shoved into a day. Here we are though,in another world. A world of magic and wonder and unusual creatures and beings I had never imagined nor heard of before. And four human beings who seem,from what I can tell,are good to their cores. They took us in without a thought,and we just started exchanging our stories as if it just the normal thing to do,which to them, it probably is. They came from another different world to here,so they probably told stories of their world a few times,and their story here since defeating the white witch.

I closed my hand,extinguishing the flame that was there. Then,stood and stretched. I looked at the sky beyond where I was in the edge of the woods. The sun had shifted a little already since the sparring match, and I think I have cleared my head and cooled down as much as I am going to for now.

I should start heading back, I decided.

I headed back at a good pace,and was in a slightly better mood. I was coming close up to the castle in no time.

I went around the other side of the castle this time and came across a small patio along its side,and occupying outside chairs at an outside table were none other than my uncle,Katara, and all four siblings.

I could see market bags and bundles on the table and some cutlery as well.

I got close enough to hear their voices overlapping softly before someone noticed me. Susan seemed to notice me, as she pointed to shift everyone's attention to my direction. Everyone else turned to look. Smiles spread across everyone's faces,even Katara's. I closed the remaining gap between us. "Hi" I said,letting the single word hand in the air.

It was a relief to see them all smiling at me,including Katara. I wasn't expecting to be just welcomed back with casual smiles after this morning. I felt my shoulders lighten slightly, feeling even less tense and burdened.

"Nephew, join us,please. Katara,Lucy and Peter went on a walk and ended up with fresh goodies for us to try." Iroh welcomed me into the group.

"Welcome back," chimed in Susan.

Edmund got up and picked up an empty chair from not far behind the table and pulled it up beside his after sliding his own over some to make room.

I walked over and sat, nodding my thanks to Edmund who nodded back.

Suddenly we heard a door swing open ,we all looked over to the castle side that was beside us and saw the door,now open and Kayleona came out with a small tray in her hands. She came over and placed it down on the edge of the table and started transferring what looked and smelled like fresh bread, napkins,a pitcher of what was probably water and a drinking glass for everyone. She grabbed the empty tray and told us " I hope you guys enjoy the bread to go with your new jam!" before turning and heading back into the castle through the door she'd just come through.

Upon a closer inspection, the bread actually came on its own small cutting board with a bread knife already laying across it near the end,and a spreading knife for the jam enfolded in the napkins as well.

Katara grabbed the jar of jam and started to open it while Peter started to cut the bread into some slices. Lucy passed everyone a napkin with a slice of the bread on top.

The fresh bread smelled real good. The jam looked good,sorta a golden color similar to really good honey,but a little more yellow.

Peter spoke up,looking at me, " so we- Katara,Lucy and I ended up taking a walk to where locals or those choosing to become at least somewhat local now are selling and trading their goods in a new designated spot that has been named Market Row. Its small but its also just started up, there are 6 merchant stands/stalls set up. We brought back some things to try together. Exotic produce,mostly. We had just gotten set up when you arrived."

I nodded my head. "That sounds interesting. Let's do this,what's first?"

"This is a gimba,and on the bread slice is gimba jam." Lucy explained while holding up a round,dark yellow fruit. "So, how about we try the jam and bread and then slice up one of the gimba and each try a piece?"

I shrugged and then nodded. Everyone else gave comments of agreement.

While we were all tasting the new jam on the bread slices, Lucy passed the gimba she had previously picked up to show us and handed it to Peter along with a small sharp knife. Peter then proceeded to cut it up and put all the pieces on a plate before placing it in the middle of the table.

I liked the gimba jam. Everyone did from the pleased hums all around. I had never had anything like it. Seems no one else had either, as I heard several similar comments like 'oh this is delicious, what an interesting flavor' from around me.

Lucy picked up a piece of the fresh gimba and tried it.

Her eyes went wide in surprise and she broke into a smile after she swallowed. "Oh my gosh,that is so good!"

Peter and Edmund both grinned and grabbed a piece for themselves,intrigued by their sister's exclamation.

They too looked surprised and then satisfied. Edmund looked at Lucy and said one word "agreed."

Peter nodded his head. Lucy had a glint in her eyes as she retorted "told you!"

We all laughed.

Uncle grabbed two pieces and handed me one of them.

We both tried it and really liked it.

Finally Susan and Katara tried the last pieces.

We all ended up liking it.

We tried the bubble berries next,and then the honey berries.

Everything was liked and even enjoyed all around. Discovering new flavors together was a bit refreshing,and maybe even a subtle bonding thing for us all,which probably was needed,especially after earlier this morning. It was fun to watch each other's reactions to trying the honey berries after hearing the description of the burst of flavor when you bit into it. The bubble berries flavor-wise were a favorite all around it seemed. They were my favorite,anyway.

I took a sip of water from my glass.

Katara grabbed one of the wrapped items and began unwrapping it slowly,gently.

"This is the last thing to try from our adventure today. The last merchants were fisherman, I couldn't turn it down. I got smoked fish." She told us as she finished unwrapping the item to reveal a smoked fish fillet.

Peter passed her the small sharp knife after cleaning it on a napkin.

She sliced everyone a small piece and handed each of us our piece to try.

It smelled good,so I had an idea I was going to like it. I placed my piece in my mouth. It was very good,some of the best fish I'd ever had.

''Mmm's" and hums of approval were the only sound uttered while everyone tried their pieces of the smoked fish.

Katara said,after finishing a slice of her own, "I'm glad everyone liked it. It reminded me of home. It made me really happy to be able to get a piece."

The four siblings smiled.

Lucy leaned over and grabbed her hand and gave it a squeeze. Katara smiled at her.

Then, Katara's eyes lit up. "Oh,you guys, look!" She stood,then turned around and grabbed something that seemed to have been draped over the back of her chair. She turned back to us,holding up a green dress,smiling excitedly. "Lucy got it for me, very cheekily,too, I might add!"

All of her siblings chuckled a little, and Susan commented heartily, "Definitely Lu!"

Lucy shrugged,giggling a bit before sharing, "I couldn't help myself,honestly, she was absolutely drawn to it,and Aggie got in on it and brought out the mirror and when she held it up to herself I knew she had to have it. So yeah, I got it for her."

We all chuckled at her enthusiasm.

"Thanks again,Lucy" Katara told the younger girl softly. Lucy smiled and just hugged her. They both sat back down.

Uncle spoke up shifting the trickling conversation back over, " hey, I would love to check that place out you guys went to today,that sounds exciting!"

I nodded my head in agreement, "Yeah,that would be nice."

~*~*~* Susan Point of View *~*~*~

I looked over at Iroh and Zuko and smiled, " Oh,well I think we can fix that. How about Edmund and I take you both tomorrow morning?" she turned to her brother,an eyebrow slightly raised in question.

" You're free at least at some point tomorrow,aren't you, Ed?"

Ed gave me a half smirk before nodding and saying, " Yeah, how about a little after breakfast? That fine with you guys?", looking at Iroh and Zuko after a glance at his older sister.

Zuko shrugged then nodded his affirmative. Iroh chuckled slightly, "it's settled then!We very much look forward to it!"

"Great!" I told them.

Katara draped her dress over her arm before standing up and stretching her arms out over her head slightly.

She then looked at me and Lucy before asking, "you guys told us there were all kinds of different types of beings here, are there water type beings? I think it would be neat to learn about any if there are some here."

I got up and caught Lucy's eye,giving a slight nod before turning to Katara, " Come on, we've go something to show you", giving her a smile. Lucy got up ,then so did Katara,who looked keenly intrigued.

"Where are you three going?" Peter asked,him, Ed, Iroh and Zuko watching us with mild curiosity.

"We are taking her to our library." I revealed.

"Okay,see you later on then." he replied and the rest of them just gave a small wave as we left.

"Oh, wait I need to take my smoked fish to my room!" Katara said,turning to head back to the table to retrieve it.

Pete waved her off, " I can take care of it Katara. Would you like me to wrap it back up and secure it and set it on your bedside table just to make it easy?"

Katara nodded,looking grateful. "That would be great. Thank you."

Lucy and I led the way through the door Kayleona had just used. We took a few turns, then a short hallway that came upon a set of stairs.

It was only a few stairs up. The library was the last door on the right.

I pushed open the door and led the way into the nice and at the same time cozy,library.

I walked straight to the back and started scanning the very last shelf that was close to the window with the table and two seats.

Lucy and Katara just stood to the side,watching me curiously, as I probably looked as if on a mission.

I was on a mission for one of the first books I ever picked up after I had entered this library and immersed myself in whilst sitting on one of the cushy poufs in a corner.

I finally saw the sleek and beautiful letters on the spine of the book I had been looking for. "Gotcha!" I exclaimed quietly in triumph.

'Wondrous Creatures and Beings of Narnia' by Nestor Orlosof are the words that spanned across the spine in what looked like elegant,looping black ink that shone a little. The book cover was a soft brown,and the edge of the corners were worn ever so slightly from use and age.

I held it up to show them,the worlds across the book front ,too in bigger letters. I handed it to Katara as I said , " I think this is what we are looking for."

Lucy sat down in the chair on the left side of the table,then Katara across from her. I found a chair and pulled it up next to Katara so I could help her find what she needed.

She set it down on the table and opened it to the index,eyes scanning for the key word she had mentioned, water. She flipped it to a little past half way and started reading. I leaned in and looked at the page closest to me. It showed two illustrations, on top was a water sprite or water fairy and the one on the bottom was a mermaid. The name of each being neatly written under the illustrations. On the other page was the information that corresponded with the illustrations.

Katara had a mildly fascinated expression on her face. I glanced over at Lucy with a smile who smiled back.

Katara looked up from the book and looked at me then at Lucy before asking, " have you met any mermaids since you've been here? And can they really breathe under water? That seems so incredible!"

Lucy nodded excitedly,grinning widely.

"Yes and yes." I answered verbally since Lucy just decided to be all grins at the moment. Although, I was smiling,too,once the words left my mouth,though not as big as Lu.

"The water sprites are interesting too,from what info is in here." Katara added pointing to the page she had read.

"They are." Lucy and I told her in unison by chance. We giggled a little at this.

Katara turned her attention back to the book briefly, flipping through the pages and stopping on a page at random. Centaurs.

Lucy and I watched as her eyes widened in surprise as she looked at the illustration and then read the brief description at the beginning of the other page.

She looked up at us,an eyebrow raised slightly.

"Yep" was all Lucy said cheekily.

I told her "Yes,and you will end up meeting some of them,including the general you heard about in our story."

"Okay" she said before closing the book gently. "Do you mind if I hold on to this for a few days?" she asked.

"Absolutely" I told her.

"Would you like to meet the mermaids?" Lucy asked Katara.

"I would love that," she replied earnestly.

I touched her arm gently with my hand, "we should go in the morning, they are likely to sing in the morning time,you will love it. Is it alright with you to wait til then,Katara?"

She nodded,smiling again. "That sounds great. How early are we talking exactly?" she asked, looking at Lucy then at me.

I let a smile slowly grow across my lips. " let's say early enough to sneak to the kitchen for a cup of tea before heading out and hoping they have made bread or something they can sneak us a piece of as it will be well before breakfast still." I revealed with a hint of mischief in my voice.

Lucy giggled and Katara rolled her eyes and let out a chuckle.

"I think I can handle that" Katara retorted with triumph in her voice.

We all giggled.

I glanced out the window before turning back to them.

"I think I need to go check in on something." I told them.

Lucy gave me a somewhat knowing look, "Checking in on meetings again?"

I let out a breath, "Yes, I need to be ready,and I've got learning to do,you know,Lu,we all do,still."

She let out a small annoyed huff, " I know,and that's what we have our councils for. I just don't want you to grow up too fast again and become boring. You just came back around,shortly after we go here,you know."

That tugged at my soul,her worrying about that,and me remembering myself just months ago trying to be too logical and almost forgetting how to just be a big sister. Helpful ,and still able to have fun rather than bossy and coming off as a know it all.

I walked over to my sister and hugged her before starting to play with her hair as I spoke. " Lu, I won't, I promise. I will prove it to you,too,tomorrow morning."

Lucy turned and smiled up at me. "Good." she told me happily with a firmness to her response as well, meaning she was going to, for certain hold me to that.

Katara smiled at us.

"Okay time for me to go check in on those meetings" I told them before tracing my way back through the library to the door.

I heard them both tell me bye before I was out of earshot.

~*~*~*~Katara POV~*~*~

Lucy and I spent a few more moments together in the library before parting ways.

Mostly it was excited chatter about me meeting the mermaids in the morning.

"How about I do your hair in the morning,Lucy?" I asked her as I reached out and ran my fingers through some of her hair before tucking it behind her ear.

"Yes,please, I would love that." she replied,smiling at me.

I glanced down at the book I held in my arms close to my chest. "I think I'm going to go to my room and read through some of this for a little while."

"Okay" she told me as she got up from her chair.

We exited the library together then split ways.

I found my room easily enough from where the library was.

Closing the door behind me, I slipped out of my shoes just to the side of the door before walking over to the cushioned bench in front of my window.

I glanced over at my wardrobe because a flash of color caught my eye. Green.

One of the doors was open slightly and draped over it was my new dress. Peter must have brought it here for me,too,when he brought my smoked fish up here for me.

I sat on the bench,my legs crossed and opened the book to a random page and started reading.

There were many fascinating creatures here in Narnia, I enjoyed getting sucked in by this book and just learning. The illustrations were beautiful and were composed with a lot of details.

I had spent the rest of the afternoon reading and thinking and wondering.

A knock on my door startled me and Lucy poked her head in and told me it was time to head to dinner.

Dinner was simple. Chicken and dumplings. It was absolutely delicious. Dinner was quieter tonight but not necessarily uncomfortable. I think we all were just thinking about things and it just ended up carrying over into dinner this time and just maybe the food itself was a nice distraction.

I let my mind wander a few times back to earlier at the sparring session and had to just focus on not letting the memory of mister stubborn get me riled up again. I probably wasn't the only one. Zuko seemed a little quiet too,for him anyway. Not that I went out of my way to check as I was trying not to let something show on my face whenever the thoughts flit across my mind.

There was nice small talk all around in the beginning and it had set a nice tone for the meal,overall.

Iroh did reveal that him and Zuko had went to the stables and got to see the horses. Said they were both beautiful and odd as we didn't have anything quite like them back in our world.

He also told us one of the horses teased Zuko by playfully nipping at his shirt tail more than once. I glanced at Zuko to see him try not to scowl as his cheeks flushed slightly.

We all laughed and he eventually did too after some light coaxing from his uncle.

After one last round of good hot tea we parted for bed.

I stretched my arms over my head and I walked to the washroom to rinse my mouth out and braid my hair for bed before changing into my night gown.

The moon light shone through my bedroom window perfectly enough to see my way to the wardrobe to change into my night gown,then to my huge,inviting bed.

I pulled the blanket and sheets down and got into bed, snuggling in and getting comfortable almost instantly. I drifted off to sleep soon after.

A/N: Alrighty guys,that's chapter 5! Please tell me what you guys think! Also, questions and /or ideas are always welcome. Working on a conflict of interest in the next few chapters to dive deeper into this world and this story I'm writing. Thanks so much everyone!