CHAPTER 15

KATARAS POV

It was almost noon by the time Zuko and Katara came out of the room and down the steps. They could already hear the loud banter of Suki and Toph in the kitchen as they argued over what they should eat for breakfast.

"i'm sick of porridge!" complained Toph.

"Well I don't see you volunteering to go to the farmer's market" Suki huffed.

"You know I hate shopping!"

When Katara made it to the bottom of the steps she could see Toph's lips formed into a pout, her face scrunched and arms crossed. Zuko walked closely behind the water bender, protectedly placing a hand on her lower back.

Hearing Katara's feet land on the bottom of the stairs made Suki turn her head and look up. The auburn haired warrior's jaw dropped, regarding both her and Zuko in disbelief.

"Toph! Why didn't you tell me Katara stayed?" Suki complained. The sightless girl rolled her milky green orbes and shrugged her shoulders.

"I knew they wouldn't be able to part…how far is the market from here anyway?" she diverged placing a finger on her chin.

"Good morning" Zuko rasped from behind her.

"Good morning" returned Suki, finally coming down from the shock of seeing them two together. Katara had defended the decision to leave Zuko until she was blue in the face.

But now things had clearly turned out differently.

Zuko walked past the counter and picked up his coin purse, attaching it to his waist belt.

"I'm going to the south end of the island today. I won't be back for three days time" he said, regarding each girl in the room and leaving a hearty amount of coin on the counter for them. Suki looked to him in question.

"For what?" she asked incredulously. Her criticism was well warranted. They were supposed to be spending every waking moment on this island either training or strategizing. Zuko leaving on a frivolous mission for three days wasn't in the plans.

"There's some people in my family I must see." he said with no room for argument in his tone. Katara shot her a look that said I'll tell you later. Suki backed down, turning back to the pantry to gather the steel cut oats.

Katara made her way across the kitchen, following Zuko out the front door and down the white granite steps. They stopped just a few feet from landing, where the grass met the sand. Zuko looked down at her, tucking a stray hair from her curly top knot behind her ear.

"I'll be back soon," he said "Lo and Li live just behind that far mountain over there." She followed his gaze as he nodded his head toward the majestic summit.

"But you don't have a horse" she said squinting her eyes as the sun broke from behind a large cloud.

"I'll buy one once I get to the market." He returned his gaze to hers ducking his head down to kiss her lips tenderly.

"I love you" he whispered agains her lips. Katara's heart thudded in her chest as she reached up to throw her arms on his shoulders, moving her fingers over the scruff of his beard.

"I love you too…please be safe" she stressed as she pecked him once more. He turned to leave, making his way down the sanded pathway leading away from the house and toward the city.

Katara turned to go back in the house. Suki had begun boiling the water for the porridge while Toph sat at the table metal bending her spoon.

"Explain" Suki demanded as she turned to Katara with her hand on her hip. Their argument the night before flashed through her mind as she thought about how right Suki had been. Katara would have made a grave mistake last night, and Suki was just trying to stop her. She hadn't been able to see past her rage enough to notice that the Kyoshi warrier had actually been being a good friend in telling her the truth.

Katara sighed, sitting at the table across from Toph.

"First off…I want to apologize Suki. I shouldn't have yelled at you like that last night. I was just scared and angry and-"

Suki held up her hand "Don't worry about it…and besides you were right. I don't know what it's like to be in your position, who was I to judge so harshly?"

Katara's heart swelled at her friends humbled words.

"Zuko has gone to find his old fire bending instructors. They taught him and his sister when they were young…they're kind of like his twin aunts" Katara said scratching the back of her hair.

"Why does he need them?" Toph asked, finally sitting up from her slouched position across from her. Katara looked over the table.

"We're getting married" she smiled. Suki's jaw dropped for the second time that day.

"WHAT" she yelled in disbelief.

"His aunt's Lo and Li are both Fire Priestesses and can marry us officially. Zuko says he does not want the court questioning his family once he is coronated" she could not hide the blush tenting her cheeks.

"Well" Toph grumbled "…wasn't expecting that"

"I think that's honorable" Suki smiled "is that what you want?"
Katara barely hesitated for a beat "It is. When he asked me…I don't know… there just wasn't a single doubt in my mind about saying yes. Of course I'm terrified of the repercussions this could have. The Fire Nation has taken everything I've ever known, and yet…when I look at Zuko all I see is the good. I see that they are a people that need help. They are lost and misguided…searching for truth in destruction. He used to be like that you know" she laughed forlornly "always running and never facing the truth. When he first joined Team Avatar he still believed in some of the lies his Nation had taught him. When we get there they very well could kill me and my child. But I feel in my spirit that we are meant to heal his people…together" she ended. Both Suki and Toph wore pensive expressions.

"That's a huge undertaking. But if anyone can do it, it's you two" Suki said. Toph nodded her head in agreement.

ZUKOS POV

2 days later

Zuko had decided to take the coastal route to Lo and Li's beach home. He trucked up the sanded hillside on horseback where patches of grass sprouted from the ground in random spurts. On his back he carried his two broad swords and a sack of extra clothing.

He felt nostalgia rush through him as he approached the stone steps. Suddenly he felt like a little boy again being reprimanded by his elderly teachers. Zuko silently prayed that his old instructors were still alive. They had been rather old even when he was a child. If they were dead he didn't know how else he was going to pull this off. He took a deep breath before dismounting his new steed and tying him to a post in front of the steps. He ascended them and gave the wind worn wooden door three knocks. Several moments passed before he heard a shuffle behind the entrance. He braced himself as the door swung open. He looked down to see a small pale woman, her face worn yet her golden eyes still mirthful. Her silver hair was pulled back into a low bun with a ruby red ribbon.

"Who is it?" he heard another voice call from the back room, her voice cracked and worn with age.

The woman in front of him squinted her eyes at him folding her small hands into the bells of her sleeves.

"Zuko?" she whispered. She reached her hand up to trace the scar across his cheek. She was so short she could barely reach him.

"Aunt Li…" he rasped regarding her fondly as he gently grasped the hand on his face. She embraced him suddenly, surprising him with her strength.

"Zuko?!" Lo yelled from behind them. He looked up just in time to witness her bopping him over the head with her walking stick.

"You idiot!" she grunted.

"Ouch!" he hissed, covering his head in protection "what was that for?"

"For scaring me and my sister half to death with your antics! Fighting your father in an Agni Kai? What were you thinking?"

"Aunt Lo that was years ago! And I didn't want to fight him he forced me just for speaking out" he tried explaining before she hit him again.

"And look where that got you! Banished!" she fumed.

"Oh be easy on the boy Lo…come inside Zuko let's discuss these things over tea. We're curious to know where on Earth you've been" Li said calmly as she led him further inside. He followed close behind them both. He looked around the quant home seeing that not much had changed since the last time he was there as a child. He sat across from them as they brewed a pot of tea on the table, a single standing burner sparked with just a flick of Lo's hand. They waited until his cup was poured and he took his first sip before bombarding him with questions.

"You are a war criminal Zuko. You know it is illegal for us to be speaking with you" Lo said regarding him sidelong.

"Yes I am aware. But what I came here for is worth the risk" he said hastily.

"What did you come here for?" Li asked. Zuko looked at them both anxiously.

"I…found a woman. A wonderful woman. I've never loved anyone like I love her, and I want to marry her. I came here to ask if you two could do it" he awaited their responses. There was a pregnant pause. He did not know what he expected them to say, he just hoped to the spirits they'd agree.

"Who is she?" Li implored.

"Katara…princess of the Southern Water Tribe, and Avatar Aang's water bending Sifu."

Both twins eyes widened, the full weight of what he was asking of them finally understood.

"Where have you been all this time Prince Zuko?" Lo asked, finally dropping her defenses.

"In the Earth Kingdom biding my time until I face my father again. I've been helping the Avatar, it's the reason Uncle was captured and thrown in prison"

They both looked at each other in concern before turning back to him. Li took a deep sigh before speaking again.

"Your father…has lead this Nation down a dark path. He has gone mad with power, killing anyone who dare disagree with him. It's why we moved from the palace and to the beach house full time. And your sister…" Li could barely press on, her emotions overwhelming her. Her twin placed a hand to her back in comfort.

"What about my sister?" His eyes darted between them, his anxiety rising at the thought of Azula. Even though his relationship with his sister could be described as strained at best their entire lives, the truth was he had always worried for his younger sibling. He knew that she was troubled. He knew that all she really wanted was their father's approval, willing to go to extremes just to remain in his good graces. Zuko would always love his sister, but he also understood and did not take lightly what he knew she was capable of.

"I'm afraid she has become even worse than your father. She wants his favor so badly she fills his head will all sorts of vile things. It got to a point where she wouldn't even listen to us…so we left" she cried.

"Are you planning to usurp the throne Zuko?" Lo questioned. Zuko nodded his head slowly.

"It's the only way. He's destroying the rest of the world. And most fire nation citizens don't even know it. He's planning to completely desecrate the Earth Kingdom. That's why I'm here…to put a stop to it".

"You are right to do so Prince Zuko, but why the rush to get married? Why not wait until after you are coronated?"

"We must do this before my heir is born" he stated. The air around them stilled. Lo and Li looked at him in shock.

"The girl is pregnant?" Li exclaimed.

"Yes" he confirmed "I do not want the court questioning my child's legitimacy." There was another pause before Lo broke the silence.

"A mixed child of fire and water…this is most interesting indeed" Lo said stroking her chin thoughtfully.

. . .

Even though the twins no longer lived and worked at the palace they were still well taken care of by the royal family. In fact the very house they lived in, although small, was a luxury property under the royal family's name.

Once Lo and Li had packed their necessary items the three of them got inside their horse drawn carriage while a servant hoped the stag's back. They were swiftly on their way back to the royal family's abandoned vacation home.

Inside the carriage was plush burgundy seating creating a darker atmosphere even though it was quite early in the day.

"So, tell us. What is she like?" Li asked once they were all settled. Zuko smirked, an image of his water bender popping into his head.

"She's possibly the kindest person that has walked this earth. Her level of compassion for others surpasses my comprehension…it's like she lives to heal. I'm a better person when I'm with her too. I feel free, like I'm weightless…like my past doesn't matter. Katara's also a powerful bender" he emphasized with a shake of his head and furrowed brows "and a quick thinker. Not to mention the most fair madden I've ever laid eyes on" he smiled.

Lo and Li both giggled at his last sentence.

"I'm happy you've found love young prince. That's all we've ever wanted for you…that's all your mother wanted too" Lo said reaching over to pat his shoulder.

"Unfortunately in a royal marriage it is rarely ever rooted in love" Li said quietly.

His brows creased together as he thought of his parent's union. He held back his tears at the thought of his mother Ursa. Whenever he thought of her it gave him the fuel he needed to wipe out his father. He was the reason she was dead.

"She would've loved Katara" he said, his voice sounding nasally. Li looked down reaching into her coin purse to grab something. It was a small box, which she handed over to Zuko carefully. He looked at it curiously, turning the emerald velvet box in his hand.

"Open it" Lo urged. He flipped the top revealing a golden ring nestled between two small white cushions. The ring held a deep red diamond in the center, the sides encrusted with chips of garnet. He remembered it like it was yesterday. It was his mother's wedding ring. And his grandmothers, and his great great grandmothers. It was the ring passed down for generations of Fire Ladies. It was a beautiful piece of jewelry, timeless in its creation. He pictured Katara wearing it, a smile lighting up his face. He wondered if Katara's finger would fit it. Every time it was passed down to a new Lady the ring was resized to it's original dimensions. It was Fire Nation superstitious belief that if a Fire Lady's hand fits the ring that she will be an auspicious Queen.

It wasn't long before they arrived back to his families private beach. His heart began to thud with anticipation as they came to a stop. Placing the ring box in his pocket he got out of the carriage, then helping Lo and Li out as well. He led them into the house, looking around to see where the girls were. He turned to find Toph and Suki lounging on the cushions while Katara was nowhere in sight.

"Hey, where's Kat?" he asked. Suki got up from the cushions.

"Hey your back! Katara's upstairs getting ready. I went to the market yesterday and got you guys something to wear for the wedding" she said. Suki looked past him noticing the two identical elderly women standing behind him "These must be your aunts, nice to meet you" she said stepping around him to give a small bow. Toph got up from her resting spot, making her way over to them.

"Hey Zuko" Toph turned and bowed to the elders "hello Zuko's aunts".

He rolled his eyes.

"Nice to meet you two lovely ladies. You may call us aunt Lo and Li" Li smiled. Suki and Toph introduced themselves as well before pulling Zuko aside to talk to him.

"Your clothes are upstairs in your bedroom" Suki instructed.

"I want us to marry in my mother's cactus garden" he explained. Suki nodded her head.

"Meet us down in the cactus garden just before sunset." He nodded his head. The thought of him being married before sundown made his heart palpitate in his chest. A mix of adrenaline, nerves, and anticipation swirled around in his gut.

"Jeeze Sparky your heart's beating out of your chest" Toph explained using her seismic ability to feel his heart rate.

He chuckled nervously.

"Why don't you go get ready. You have a couple of hours to meditate and calm yourself" Suki directed. Zuko nodded his head doing as instructed, leaving everyone downstairs.

He got to his room and pushed the door open noticing the outfit Suki got for him laying on the crisp white bed. It almost blended in with the sheets, but as he approached he could make out a simple yet elegant hanfu, with white linen pants to match. For his feet a pair of red clothed flat shoes. He smiled noticing a red flower laying across his shirt with a small note attached.

It read:

My love,

I can't imagine a life without you. I am so excited to become your wife today.

Our family begins now.

See you at sunset

~Your Love, Kat

He clutched the note to his chest, folding it up and putting it inside his broad sword carrier. That ensured that he would never go without the note as he always carried his swords no matter where he went. He bathed quickly as well as washed his hair and pulled it back into a tight top knot. It was easier to slick down when it was wet like that. His silky hair was pin straight and extremely thick, making it hard for Zuko to manage sometimes but looking in the mirror he was satisfied with how it turned out. He traveled to the bed putting on his clothes. He looked in the mirror again. He had never worn all white like that before, but it made him feel light and airy. A traditional royal wedding would have him wear red and gold, an extravagant robe with gold embroidered hakama. But the simplicity and purity of the white that Suki picked, he thought, was perfect. He transferred the ring into his new pocket before sitting cross legged down on his balcony to begin his meditation.

KATARAS POV

She had been getting ready since early that morning. Katara knew she needed to give herself time. Too much stress wasn't good for expecting mothers and the thought of being married by sundown was freaking her out a bit. She had already had a milk bath, which had helped her cool down considerably. Katara had gotten used to living in the Earth Kingdom's heat but the Fire Nation was something much different. It was a nice dry heat but the sun blazed the strongest here. And deep down she'd always be a South Pole girl at heart, accustomed to the snow. She had gotten dressed in the long flowing white chiffon dress Suki got her. It accommodated her belly nicely fitting more snugly at the top and flowing down past her feet. She went to the vanity sitting down in front of the mirror. She surveyed herself intently. Her long wet tresses flowed behind her, the shorter edges along her hairline curling up to frame her face. Her blue eyes shun beneath her heavy lashes. She had never known she could get freckles but a dusting of them crept across her nose and cheeks from so much sun exposure, beneath them was where a slight blush lay. It seemed that her pregnancy had made her lips even fuller, rounded at the top in a bow shape. She bit her lip in anticipation of seeing Zuko. She hoped that he liked the note she left him.

Just then she heard a knock at her door.

"Come in" she called. In came Suki carrying a hair brush and a tray of pins and flowers. Behind her walked two elderly women who looked exactly identical to each other, down to their very outfits.

She turned to them and stood, offering them a deep bow.

"I am so grateful for you doing this High Priestesses Lo and Li" she said still in her bow.

"Oh please call us aunty!" Li exclaimed pulling her into a hug.

"Zuko was right she is gorgeous!" Lo laughed.

Katara felt warmth glow through her. Having someone from Zuko's life who he considers family embrace her so warmly felt good. She also missed her Gran Gran and having two old women engulf her with hugs filled that void just a little.

"And just look at that belly Li! She's going to have a strong fire bender from the looks of it" Lo said rubbing Katara's bump.

"Why don't you have a seat dear? Your friend Suki came to do your hair." She obeyed, sitting back in front of the vanity.

By the time Suki was done braiding her hair she had learned all about Zuko's favorite childhood foods and treats, as well as some embarrassing stories to put in her back pocket for later. Suki had given her a long braid going down her back with two twists going around her temples and curls framing her face. Interweaved in her hair were small white flowers.

"You look beautiful" Suki praised, giving Katara a kiss on the cheek. She smiled back at her in the mirror.

"Thank you Suki"

"It's time" Lo stated grabbing Katara's hands and ushering her out the door.

They all walked together in silence. They went down the stairs, out the door, and around the stone path to the back of the beach home. The path to the gardens were paved with tile the color of light sand. Squared off pockets were reserved for hundreds of full grown cacti, all of different shapes, colors, and sizes. The path had various turns and branches. Lo and Li led her to the center where she found Zuko standing in front of a huge aloe tree with a bouquet of fire lilies in his hand. Toph stood beside him with a small smirk on her face. She was wearing a simple red tunic with her hair up in a high pony tail.

Katara locked eyes with Zuko as she approached him.

His eyes looked like honey, glazed and sweet. His hair was pulled back neatly exposing his high cheek bones. He had shaved a little leaving his jaw line shadowed. She stopped in front of him. He was wearing all white too, his hanfu flowing lightly in the mild winds. He gave her a soft smile.

"You look beautiful" he said handing her the flowers. She grasped them, her finger accidentally grazing his as he released them. Electricity sparked up her arm, and she clutched the flowers closely to her chest.

"Thank you" she squeaked.

Lo and Li stood side by side in front of them holding their scrolls of scripture.

"What an auspicious day for this wedding" began Li "today marks the new moon, a special time in which the sun is in alignment with the moon in its first phase. This happens way above us beyond the sky in a realm no human has ever walked, but we are gathered today to witness that alignment here on earth with the prince of the sun and the princess of the moon. Inside her womb grows the culmination of the two, living together in harmony and birthing new life."

Lo unraveled her scroll, picking up after her sister "A marriage is a sacred oath. One that should never be broken nor tainted. With this bond you two shall promise to love and support each other as long as you both shall live, keeping Agni in the center. As the sun rises faithfully every day so shall the loyalty you two hold for one another. Do you princess Katara, promise to always uplift prince Zuko, be a refuge and safe haven for him, fill his home with peace and prosperity, but most of all love him through sickness and in health?"

"I do" Katara said breathlessly. She felt as though the wind had been knocked from her lungs, and yet looking into his eyes kept her sustained and upright.

"And do you, prince Zuko, promise to always protect princess Katara, be her provider, lead her in body and spirit, fill her home with peace and prosperity, but most of all love her through sickness and in health?"

Zuko grabbed Katara's free hand, squeezing it tightly.

"I do" he rasped.

"Prince Zuko, you may present your family ring."

He reached into his pocket pulling out an emerald box. He opened it pulling out a red diamond ring. The gold was so pure it seemed to glow against the setting sun.

ZUKOS POV

Usually in a royal wedding there was no talking. The priest prayed over the couple, and read the formal ceremonial wedding scriptures and vows. The couple would silently bow to each-other, give a chaste kiss, and go down to the fire sages to preform the traditional marriage ritual. It was usually a very stuffy affair.

But this…this felt like freedom. He wanted Katara to know the magnitude and depth of his love before he placed the ring on her finger. He wanted to submit himself to her.

"Katara, this ring is but a symbol of my love. What I feel for you cannot be captured in a single piece of jewelry, it spans past miles of space and ions of time. You are the woman of my dreams, and the mother of my future children. Agni could not have blessed me with anyone more perfect and divine. I just hope that I can live up to what you deserve. I hope that i can make you proud as your husband. Katara I love you" he finished. He saw a tear slip from her beautiful blues, and he fought the urge to wipe it away.

"I love you too, by the sun, the moon, and Agni himself" she breathed echoing the very words he had told her just days ago.

He brought her hand up to chest level, spreading her delicate fingers apart with his "if it doesn't fit we can get it resized" he assured her quietly. She nodded, unable to contain the excitement on her face. She bit her lip in anticipation as he slid the ring easily onto her ring finger.

"It's a perfect fit!" exclaimed Li with a gasp "you may kiss your bride Zuko"

Without hesitation he stepped forward cupping her jaw and capturing her lips. His mouth moved like water over hers, enticed by her sweet and warm taste. He would never be able to get enough of her. And now she was his forever. He broke their kiss hesitantly, pulling back to stare into her eyes. Those perfect windows into her soul were alight with happiness, a reflection of what he felt inside.

He looked over to find Suki wiping tears from her eyes, and Toph pretending to be bored. Suki squealed rushing over to Katara to engulf her in a tight hug.

He stood next to Toph while Suki, Lo, and Li gushed over Katara.

"Congrats Sparky. You're one lucky dude" Toph jested giving him a playful punch in the arm. He smirked.

"Thanks Toph"

"Excited for your honey moon?" she asked waggling her eyebrows suggestively. Zuko couldn't help but to crack up at his friend's goofy antics.

"What honeymoon?" he asked in confusion.

"Wellll Suki knew you had a hefty savings left over from the farm so she booked you guys a room in the market city" Toph grinned mischievously. Zuko's eyes widened.

"Oh…" he was in disbelief. They had really gone to great lengths to make sure this day was special for them. He was grateful.

Once the ladies had gotten all of their emotions out Zuko pulled Katara to the side, leading her out of the garden and toward the private beach. He held her hand as they walked, interlocking is fingers with hers. He looked down at her noticing her other hand's resting place atop her belly. She looked so content. Zuko couldn't help the pride billowing and expanding in his chest. She was happy to be married to him. Out of all of the people Katara could have chosen to be with she chose him. She was having his heir. The redness that lied just beneath her cheek's brown skin hadn't disappeared since she said 'I do'.

He stopped them when they reached the shore and gave her a soft smile.

"Hello wife" he smirked.

She bit her lip.

"Hello husband" she said looking down and turning even more red than she already was.

He reached out to graze her cheek with the knuckle of his pointer finger.

"Suki got us a suite for tonight in the market district downtown" his voice was smoking as he conjured up images of how he was going to ravish her tonight.

Her eyes widened slightly "Where did she get the money?"

Zuko looked up to the clouds with a smile "Well she used my money…"
Katara giggled her bow shaped lips spreading across her pearly white teeth. Zuko joined in her laughter.

"Of course" she gasped as they both caught their breath from laughing. As their chuckles died down he couldn't help but stare at her. He looked down to her lips again. He could tell that she noticed where his eyes were traveling, her own eyes darting to his mouth. He licked his lips before diving in for a kiss. This kiss was a lot different from the one they'd had in front of Lo and Li twenty minutes ago. He reached around to grip her back side, which had grown considerably the last couple of months, squeezing a moan out of her.

"I think we should go to the suite" he said between kisses.

She nodded her head seeming just as eager as he was.

KATARAS POV

Lo and Li decided that they should take their horse and carriage to their honeymoon suite. Although they were both anxious about leaving everyone for the next twenty four hours, they all assured them that everything would be fine while they were away.

Zuko helped Katara into the carriage, hopping in right behind her. Lo and Li's servant steered them away and south toward downtown. Zuko peeked his head outside of the window often. She was grateful for the coverage of the carriage. She silently prayed that no one recognized them once they got there.

The moon was high in the sky by the time they made it to the inn. Once inside they were shown to their suite without any hiccups. Suki had registered the room two days prior while Zuko was away, under his alias 'Lee'.

The room was simple and lovely, matching the beach aesthetic most places on Ember Island tended to have. The wooden four poster bed held crisp white linen sheets, a golden lamp sat in the corner, and a small balcony opened up to the market square below. Hundreds of people walked the streets below them, purchasing food from street vendors, chatting, and bargaining prices. A bamboo room divider separated the room from the bathroom space, a large porcelain tub sitting in the corner.

Katara turned toward Zuko, accidentally bumping into him with her belly. Her cheeks flooded with embarrassment. She hadn't expected him to be so close behind her.
"Sorry!" she squeaked, suddenly feeling a bit self conscious. She knew that although she had had months to adjust to her new pregnant body, Zuko had only had days. She silently wondered if he still found her attractive. Her hips had widened considerably, and she definitely looked more bottom heavy than before. Her breasts were larger, not to mention her now protruding stomach. She wished that she could have had her honeymoon before getting pregnant.

Zuko must have noticed her mood shift as his brow furrowed. He stepped forward to place both hands on the sides of her belly.

"Hey…you're beautiful you know?" he began, kissing her cheek gently. The touch of his lips was so faint, like a ghost whispering over her skin. He reached behind her to undo the bow holding the end of her braid. He tossed the white ribbon to the ground carelessly. The fire prince undid her braid languidly, releasing the soft flowing waves of her hair. Her long treeses hung loose, just the braided flower wreath remaining around her temples. Suddenly they heard music begin to play from the other side of their balcony doors. Zuko turned his head towards the sound, smirking at the melody of the sonji horn billowing through their room. He went to the doors opening them wide and stepping out onto the small terrace. Katara followed behind him, noticing the overgrown vines that covered the balcony rails. Tiny tea candles were lined up on a small table to the left in addition to a bowl of grapes. Out on the balcony the band's music grew louder. She looked down into the crowd of people who had formed surrounding the players on the busy street. The people around began dancing, the crowd becoming a mass of moving bodies, shouts, and laughter. She looked over to find Zuko watching her, his eyes alight with mirth.

"My people will find any excuse to party" he smiled, reaching over to grab a grape from the bowl beside him. He brought it to her lips watching her mouth open and receive the sweet fruit closely. She chewed in satisfaction as he brought his hands to her waist, pulling her close. He didn't seem to care about the protrusion of her stomach against his lower torso as he began swaying them back and forth. Katara hadn't expected Zuko to be a good dancer, but he stepped them easily into a simple waltz. His rhythm was so natural and steady. Katara allowed herself to be swept away as the warmth of the night breeze surrounded them. They danced barefoot like that for over an hour, Zuko twirling Katara, dipping her, and kissing her neck lovingly. She felt as if he had spun her into a different dimension; one where all time had stopped and only they existed. The outside world fell away, the people below them were nothing but the background noise to their alternate universe.

Zuko now held Katara from behind as he guided her hips to sway against him. His head was buried in her neck periodically nipping at her skin then covering it with gentle kisses. Katara let out a moan when his tongue darted out to taste her. Her heart felt like a drum against her chest as she heard him let out a groan of his own. She could feel him hardening through his trousers on her backside.

"I want you wife" his request sounding like a command. Her mind had already submitted to his will halfway through their dance. She wouldn't have been capable of denying him even if she wanted to.
"Even with me like this?" she asked looking down at herself. He turned her around abruptly bringing his hand beneath her chin to look at him.

"Especially with you like this" his tone was stern "you have never looked more enticing to me. You are truly a vision carrying my seed" he growled. She felt the blush beneath her skin rise. Her entire body suddenly felt hot at his words.

"Zu…" she whimpered as he pulled her close once again. He enveloped her mouth with a searing kiss, melting all of her insecurities away.

"Let's go inside Kitten…I want to make love to you until the day breaks" he whispered against her skin sending a shudder up her spine. She nodded her head and followed him inside obediently.

It was something about the way Zuko was handling her tonight that made her skin melt. Maybe it was the delicate way he removed the clothes from her body. Or the loving way he looked at her once she was fully exposed to his gaze. He genuinely seemed to be enraptured by her, worshiping her flesh as if she were his goddess here on Earth. As she lay on the bed completely naked Zuko gently spread her legs apart caressing the insides of her thighs.

"Don't go shy on me now princess" he warned as he felt the resistance in her legs. She focused on loosening up as he trailed his fingers upwards to her soaking center. He grazed over her clit with his thumb, testing how sensitive she was. He earned a jerk from the water bender as her hips lifted slightly off the bed and a gush of arousal escaped from her.

"Mmm look at me princess" he encouraged as he brought his other hand up to cradle her face. She obeyed him dragging her eyes upward to meet his predatory gaze. His golden eyes looked like they were glowing in the dark. He began to draw circles onto her bud with his thumb so lightly that all of her senses began to concentrate on that area. It was like he was putting some sort of spell on her, possessing her body to bend to his touch.

"Oh just like that Zu…" she whimpered out. He removed his other hand from her face using his middle finger to slide into her ever so slowly as he continued to play her clit like a guitar. She squealed with pleasure. He was bringing her to her peak quickly, all feelings of control had long since fleeted from her conscious.

"You like that?" he asked edging her on with his words. She was sopping wet, his fingers making the lewdest of sounds inside her as he meticulously slid them in and out. Just as she was about to release he pulled out of her bringing his soaked finger to her lips.

"Open" he commanded. She took the digit into her mouth willingly tasting herself. She didn't think it would arouse her so much, but the sheer taboo of the act excited her.

"I want you to lay back tonight and let me do all the heavy lifting. My princess shouldn't have to work in such a condition" he said as he caressed her stomach. Legs still spread on the edge of the bed she watched him get on his knees before her to pleasure her with his mouth. Katara was beside herself with sensation. Her toes began to curl as his tongue dove into her with wild abandon.

"Don't stop" she whined. She felt herself build right back up to where she had been before. Her lover was just too good. He knew her body and what she wanted better than she did. She looked down to find those devilish eyes of his smiling back up at her, the bottom half of his face buried between her legs. Her eyes rolled back, she couldn't take it any longer. She was going to explode. Just before she could he pulled away. Katara let out a groan at the second lost opportunity.

"Please Zu…don't-dont stop" she stuttered, her hips jerked upwards of their own accord. He licked his lips as he stood up.

ZUKOS POV

He had her exactly how he wanted her now. All edged out and ready to burst. He wasn't sure how much longer he'd be able to keep her at bay without succumbing to his own desires, especially once he got inside of her. He pulled his trousers down revealing his length. He was fully erect, the most painful one he's had yet. There was so much blood rushing to his dick he barely had enough for his brain to think straight. All he knew was the predatory instinct inside of him to mark her as his.

There was also another instinctual feeling there that Zuko was now able to place; protection. He had a healthy sense of worry for Katara before but the moment he found out she was pregnant his need to keep her safe had become an obsession. He was hyper alert and attentive to her needs. And right now he had a great sense that his wife needed him inside of her. He always knew when she was really aroused because she'd begin practically leaking. He stroked himself while he watched her make a mess of the bed below them.

"Please…" she whimpered so sweetly. He decided he would indulge her so he stepped forward aligning himself with her entrance. The bed was almost high enough for him to stand at his full height and enter her. He grabbed two pillows sticking them underneath Katara to prop her up. Her entrance was now level with him. Zuko used this opportunity to spread his wife wide and get a good glimpse at it.

"Mm" he moaned as he licked his thumb. He placed the wet digit atop her clit, not moving it but putting enough pressure on it for her to feel every movement of her body against his. He slid the head of his member into her sopping wet vice.

"Yes" she moan prettily into the space between them. Zuko had to hold his breath. The feeling of her trying to suck him in was indescribable. He felt like he might just cum on the spot. He braced himself against her by gripping her thigh with his free hand. He moved his hips ever so slightly, not exactly thrusting but moving the tip in and out. The fire prince watched as she tried to squirm her way down his shaft and take more of him in. He just kept leaning back, ensuring he only kept the tip in. Katara began trembling. He started to tap her bud like a button as he made his movements more rhythmic. He could tell that she was trying to keep quiet, being careful not to reveal that she was cumming. She had caught on to him by now and knew that he had been purposely edging her.

"You can't hide what you're doing from me princess…you're getting so tight…look at that pussy dripping" he pointed out all the signs that told him she was close.

He pulled out of her fast. He had almost gotten too lost in the moment. Teasing her was just as much torture for him as it was for her. He was panting from the intensity, and he decided he needed a water break. He got down on his knees again lapping at her fountain like a thirsting scavenger.

"So good" he praised between licks and kisses. He let her practically fuck his face while he held his tongue out, allowing her to yank and pull his hair. He enjoyed every minute of being used by his wife to fulfill her pleasure. He pulled away again aligning himself with her entrance once more. He knew he wouldn't be able to hold back for this one. It had been too long, plus he had never been as turned on in his life as he was now. Ironically this was the most vanilla sex Zuko had ever partaken in; there had been no spanking, no hair pulling, or even choking, and yet Zuko was feeling the most intense sensations he'd ever felt. He huffed as he thrusted forward to stuff his wife fully to the brim. She received him so willingly, screeching in delight as he reared all the way back just to thrust in again. He had her legs bent all the way back to her shoulders as he gently massaged her walls with his dick. The level of intention with his strokes wasn't lost on Katara as he watched her face and neck turn red.

"Uhh such a good girl for me" he said in reverence as he reached up to squeeze her breast. He pinched her nipple slightly causing a sudden rush of her arousal to squirt out. He chuckled lightly loving the water works. She always had the cutest embarrassed look on her face whenever she did that.

"I'm cumming, please let me cum Zuko please" she begged. Like a mantra she prayed please over and over again as he continued grinding into her. Her pleas sounded like music to him. He would answer her prayers this time. He picked up his pace slightly while rubbing circles on her bud.

"You gonna make a huge mess on my cock princess?" he cued. She nodded her head silently, her breath hitched in her throat. She released onto him suddenly. He watched as she careened over the edge her eyes rolling back and nails digging into his shoulders. He gripped her hips as the pressure from her orgasm forced him out. His lips split into a grin. He loved getting sprayed by Katara.

He entered her again quickly pounding into her more steadily and firmly. It didn't take him long to release deep inside of her, the power from his orgasm nearly making him collapse. He remained inside of her, enjoying the feeling of her walls quivering around him.

They both hummed in appreciation, bringing their foreheads together while they panted.

"I love you husband" she said breathlessly.

"I love you more wife" he said, kissing her sweaty forehead.

END CHAPTER 15