Alright guys here's the fifth chapter of my ATLA story. So I've made it this far and honestly it surprises me. But before anything this chapter is going to be a time skip. This chapter is going to take a whopping 6 months after the battle of Aang Vs. Ozai.
Anyway, quick things to point out if haven't noticed.
Text Like this = Someone thinking to themselves
"Text Like this" = A conversation (for those of you who don't know.)
TEXT LIKE THIS = A full on shouting match
Disclaimer: I do not own Avatar: The Last Airbender. That goes to the creators of the story Bryan and Mike
Chapter 5: Aftermath
After the battle of Aang vs. Ozai everyone decided it was time to celebrate. They celebrate not only for Aang's victory, but rather the fact that the Fire Nation has been stopped and peace was attainable and within arm's reach. Aang's training had paid off. After all those hours of torture with Zuko's training and dealing with Toph's antics that she as well called 'training' he finally was able to protect at least something. That something being the world. The Fire Lord was removed from his throne, he lost his ability to fire bend or any type of bending thanks to Aang. After Zuko was appointed Fire Lord everything went back to normal. Well at this point I don't know what's considered normal. Katara stayed in the Fire Nation as she became the ambassador of the Water Nation, so she took full advantage of that. Zuko and her were now in an official relationship. Just like his sister Sokka moved to the Earth Nation as he became ambassador of the Water Nation. Everyone could tell the only reason Sokka wanted to move to the Earth Kingdom was so that that he could be close to the Kyoshi Warriors, well to be more precise he wanted to be near Suki. Too bad Aang and Toph couldn't hear the news since both of them were in the middle of something. Now that everyone has decided their future pretty much the only ones who were still indecisive were Aang and Toph. Sure they made a promise to keep traveling together after the war, but Toph's parents wanted to settle things with her daughter. They wanted her to come back home so they could fix all personal issues and try to become a loving family once more. Once Toph told Aang the proposition given to her by her parents she needed his advice.
"So what do you think I should do Twinkles?" Toph asked.
"Well for starters I never thought I would see the day when Toph Beifong would ask for advice." Aang said. Toph grew a tick in her forehead and she punched Aang in his shoulder.
"BE SERIOUS ABOUT THIS" Toph shouted at Aang.
"Sorry sorry. I know this is important to you." Aang sympathized.
"Yeah it kinda is Twinkle Toes. So what do you think I should do?" Toph asked.
"Well I think you already know my answer." Aang said.
"You want me to give them a second chance right?" Toph asked.
"Yeah pretty much. I know you want to just forget about them, but remember you have to learn how to forgive. Even if it's the hardest thing to do." Aang said.
"I don't know Twinkle Toes. I couldn't stand them for twelve years of my life." Toph said.
"Well how about this: You give your parents a second try and you keep this up for six months. If it doesn't work to that extent then you could choose what you want to do afterwards." Aang reasoned. Toph looked towards the open area and thought of Aang's proposal to her.
"I don't know about six months Aang." Toph said.
"Well you said it yourself, you've dealt with them for twelve years of your life. I don't think six months could hurt." Aang said.
"Alright then I'll give them a second chance. By the way when did you get so smart?" Toph sarcastically said.
"I'm just trying to help as much as I can." Aang said. Toph turned towards Aang and started at him with those colorless eyes of hers.
"So I guess this is goodbye then?" Toph asked. Aang looked at her and gave her a tiny smile.
"Well don't think of it as a goodbye. Think of it as a see you later." Aang said. Toph then did something that was out of character. She walked up towards the airbender and gave him a tight hug along with a big smile.
"Well then see you later Twinkle Toes." Toph said. Aang returned her smile with the biggest grin he cold give.
"Yeah see you later Toph." Aang said. With their conversation finished Aang took Momo with him and headed towards Appa so they could keep traveling.
XXXXXXXX
It's been a whopping six months since Aang had departed from the blind earthbender and even though it was hard to admit he was actually starting to miss her witty retorts. In those six months Aang trained as much as he could so he wouldn't lose his touch. He'd grown a little bit a couple of inches, well three to be precise. He decided he wanted to see his friends since he really didn't keep in touch. He went to the Fire Nation to visit Zuko and see how he was doing as Fire Lord. Although he was expecting the Fire Lord it surprised him when he saw Katara in the Fire Nation. They talked for a bit and she revealed what everyone was doing in those six months that he left. It later dawned on him that Zuko and Katara were a thing now. After they kept talking for what seemed a good hour he needed to see Zuko and see how he was doing. After that he decided to go to the Earth Nation and visit Sokka and Suki since he wanted to see his 'brother'. Once he arrived there he asked questions as to they were located. Pedestrians soon told him where he was. Just like that he was pretty much able to find him since he was a Water tribe member he was easily distinguishable. He walked towards him and poked his left shoulder so as soon he would look towards his left Aang would move towards his right to confuse him. (A/N: Yeah I'm one of those people who do that:)) Once Sokka fell for it Aang called out to him.
"Hey Sokka what's up?" Aang asked.
"Oh hey Aang. It's just some idiot tried messing with me- WAIT IS IT REALLY YOU BUDDY? HOW YOU BEEN?" Sokka asked,
"Well I'm doing fine I guess." Aang replied.
"Oh and by the way what's with ditching us like that. You didn't even properly say goodbye to us. We were actually worried about you" Sokka said. One could hear the crack in voice as he was speaking to Aang.
"I'm sorry Sokka. I was talking to someone and I completely forgot to bid my farewells to everyone in the group." Aang regretted. Sokka couldn't stay mad with him. They were best buddies after all.
"Well no hard feelings Aang." Sokka said.
"Yeah and again I'm sorry for my actions." Aang said. Sokka then took interest in the person who completely grabbed Aang's attention to the point where he forgot to say goodbye to everyone.
"So Aang who's this person you were talking to?" Sokka asked.
"Oh that's an easy one. Toph." Aang replied. Sokka's mouth opened wide. That little blind airbender was more important than he was? His best friend? Not to mention the guy who's helped him out with every problem that Aang's had to deal with way before she became a part of the team.
"Wait you mean to tell me she was more important than me? Your best friend." Sokka asked.
"Well I don't know about that." Aang said.
"Did you at least tell her goodbye?" Sokka asked feeling a little jealous as to where he stands between Aang.
"Yeah I did." Aang said. He wouldn't forget what Toph did to him right before he left.
"So what made you want to say goodbye to her/" Sokka asked.
"Well if you must know. I was helping her out with a dilemma she was going though." Aang tried reasoning with him. Sokka had a pretty good idea what Toph's problem was.
"Was it her parents?" Sokka asked.
"Yeah how'd you know?" Aang asked.
"Well let's call it a hunch." Sokka said.
"So anyway how's everything in the Earth Kingdom?" Aang asked.
"Well to be perfectly honest it's been quite peaceful ever since we defeated the Fire Nation. I feel bored from time to time." Sokka said.
"But I bet if we were in the middle of another war you'd want nothing to do with it." Aang pointed out.
"Well probably you're right." Sokka agreed.
"So how's Suki?" Aang asked.
"Well she's never been better. I see her from time to time again. You know I honestly thought that if I moved to the Earth Kingdom I would get to spend more time with her." Sokka said.
"Aren't you happy with that?" Aang asked.
"Can't complain about it. At least I'm spending some time with her I guess." Sokka said
"So how have you been doing? You know as ambassador and all." Aang asked. After he left without saying a proper farewell six months ago he wondered what happened with his friend during that time.
"Wait how did you know I became an ambassador?" Sokka asked.
"Well funny thing is Katara told me what had become of you guys after I unexpectedly left." Aang said.
"So you visited the Fire Nation first I see." Sokka said.
"Well I needed to check up on Zuko and see how he was ruling the Fire Nation. I'm not going to lie I wasn't expecting Katara to be the first person to see when I arrived there." Aang said.
"And I'm guessing she filled you on what everyone was doing?" Sokka deduced.
"Well pretty much." Aang said. Sokka looked around and forgot that he was supposed to meet Suki to do some work.
"Oh sorry to cut this conversation short. I would like to keep talking about what we did while you were gone, but I have to do some work with Suki." Sokka said.
"No that's ok I'll talk to you later." Aang said
"Well when we're done I'd like for you to come visit our home." Sokka said,
"Wait you guys have a house?" Aang asked. Sokka pointed out to the house at the end of the market. There wasn't anything special about their house to say the very least. It was an average two story house covered in blue paint because of Sokka and filled with some flowers because of Suki.
"That's our house over there at the end of the market." Sokka said. Aang looked at it and thought it was a bit to pricey for them both. Sokka looked and smiled.
"You're probably wondering about the price of the house." Sokka said. Aang nodded at him.
"How were you guys able to get a house and all?" Aang asked.
"Courtesy of the Earth Kingdom for playing a big part in the war. Now before I leave is there any other questions you have for me?" Sokka asked. Aang forgot that he was here to see Toph in order to see if she was able to stand six more months with her parents.
"Yeah I was going to-" Aang was cut off.
"If you want to visit Toph she was wandering by the market." Sokka cut off. He knew he was here after Toph.
"How'd you know?" Aang asked. Sokka started running opposite of where Aang was standing since he really needed to hurry up. Never keep your girlfriend if you know what's good for you. Especially if your girlfriend is a Kyoshi Warrior.
"Just a hunch. Now see you later Aang." Sokka said. With that he left the airbender by himself. Now onto more important business: Finding the blind earthbender. He would be surprised if Toph was actually able to handle going back to her family for six months. Not only that, but soon after he left he began to have these weird feelings every time he would think about Toph. He'd only remember having that tender feeling when he was in love with Katara, but this was Toph no way could he love her. (A/N: Ah but that's the full purpose of this fanfic. If not then why write it right? FOR TAANG ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°). Besides even if he did like her there'd be no way in hell she would return those feelings to him. He'd have a better chance of teaching Toph how to swim than her falling for Aang. The Avatar walked around the market trying to follow Sokka's direction to locate the little blind earthbender, but to no avail. Then a figure walked behind him and poked his shoulder.
"Sir you seem lost are you looking for someone?" The mysterious person said. Aang turned around to face the person who was trying to get his attention.
"Well yeah I'm looking for this tiny-" Aang then swallowed as he saw Toph was the person who poked him.
"Go on finish what you were gonna say. I Dare You." Toph said. Aang wasn't an idiot. Well Toph may say otherwise. But he clearly heard the edge to her voice. So just like any sane person he tried evading the problem.
"Nothing I said nothing." Aang said.
'So what brings you back to the Earth Kingdom Twinkle Toes?" Toph asked.
"You're clearly not dropping the nickname are you?" Aang asked.
"Yeah no. Anyway you didn't answer my question. Did you want to come to see me?' Toph teased.
"Well yeah honestly." Aang said.
"So what did you want to come see me for?" Toph asked.
"Well I was actually wondering if you were able to stand your parents for six months." Aang said.
"Honestly it hasn't been all that bad. They kinda gave me my personal space and I have no complaints about that." Toph said.
"So everything's gone smoothly I presume?" Aang asked.
"Well not entirely. My parents want to raise me as a noble daughter so they've been trying to get me involved with some arranged marriages." Toph said disgustingly.
"Wait aren't you a little too young for that?" Aang asked.
"Funny you would say that Twinkle Toes." Toph retorted.
"Well for your information I'm a hundred years older than you." Aang pointed out.
"Anyway to answer your question. Yes I'm a little young for that, but they think it's better to choose now since I need to grow as a woman. Whatever that means." Toph said,
"And you're okay with that?" Aang asked in surprise.
"No way. I told them if I was to marry some loser I would rather be married of to you." Toph said. Multiple swords stabbed Aang right in his pride and dignity after what Toph had told her parents.
"Great to know where I stand on your list." Aang said dejected.
"Relax Twinkle Toes. It's not like I'm getting married anytime soon." Toph said.
"And why's that?" Aang asked. Toph stared at Aang and gave him a big smile.
"Well that's easy. So we could have more adventures together you airhead. Oh and quick reminder if I ever get an arranged marriage I want you to tell my parents that you want to marry me." Toph said. Aang's jaw dropped as Toph said that. To say he was surprised was an understatement. He was dropped the biggest bomb he could possibly think of. Not only that, but she said it so plainly as if she ordered him to go get a carton of milk.
"AND WHY WOULD I DO THAT?" Aang shouted.
"Quit making such a deal out of it. Besides my parent's have so much respect for you after you defeated the Fire Lord so they would gladly listen to anything that comes out of that big pie hole of yours, even if you did kidnap their daughter.' Toph said. Aang facepalmed after what Toph said.
"Don't tell me they're still mad over that?" Aang asked.
"Well not as much as when you did it the first time." Toph said. Aang couldn't stand to think the idea of him marrying Toph and facing her parents after what they accused him for. This was all too much for him. He was starting to feel sick just thinking of all of that.
"Can we just please change the subject?" Aang asked.
"Oh sure. So what have you been up to these past six months?" Toph asked.
"Well I've been training like crazy that's for sure." Aang said.
"I don't think you've been training hard enough." Toph said.
"Want to bet. I've training so much that it's actually left some scars." Aang said.
"Well I doubt it since you weren't able to find one single earthbender." Toph teased.
"Oh shut it Toph." Aang said.
"Hey what do you say you come to my house?" Toph asked.
"Sure." Aang said. Toph started walking towards her house as Aang followed suit.
"Alright then follow me Twinkle Toes." Toph said.
"Oh and by the way that thing you call a house isn't even considered a house. More like a mansion." Aang pointed out.
"Well if it's anything that maintains me with a roof I'm satisfied to call it a house." Toph said.
"You don't seem to be bothered by living small.' Aang said.
'Well honestly I don't like living large 'cuz that's too excessive and boring for me. Honestly I would like to live small with my family." Toph said.
"Well it's seems you've matured over these six months after all." Aang said.
"What do you mean Twinkle Toes? I've always had that notion. If I do get married and have kids I'd like to live small." Toph said.
"Once you marry that so called 'guy' you can be sure that I will be the first to pray for him." Aang said.
"Yeah yeah keep talking Twinkle Toes. Anyway we're almost there." Toph said.
"How about we race over there?" Aang asked.
"You just got here and the first thing you want to do is challenge the world's greatest earthbender." Toph asked. Aang felt dignified as soon as Toph asked her question.
"Yeah and what of it?" Aang said.
"Well all I can tell you Twinkle Toes it to get ready to eat my dust." Toph said.
"You're on Toph." Aang said. Toph took a head start as she completely left Aang chasing after her. Both of them could be seen from afar at the speed and distance they were both running.
XXXXXXXX
Aang was left on the floor exhausted. Sure he spent his time training for six months, but he can obviously tell he wasn't the only one training while he was gone. He knew Toph must've been training as him or even more.
"What's wrong Twinkle Toes you out of breath already?" Toph asked.
"Yeah I am. What of it?" Aang asked.
"Well that just means you didn't train as hard as I did." Toph said.
"Or maybe because you have a stronger will than I do." Aang said.
"Yeah no. I trained you personally and I can honestly say that you're a bigger hard head than I. Besides I know your full potential." Toph said.
"I don't know if that was a compliment or an insult." Aang said.
"Yeah when do you know? Anyway take it how you want." Toph said.
"Sure why not?' Aang replied. Toph started walking towards the entrance while dragging the Avatar behind her.
"Anyway we have to introduce you to my parents before anything Twinkle Toes." Toph said.
'You're going to call me that in front of them aren't you?" Aang asked. Toph just smiled as she dragged him.
"Well naturally.." Toph said.
"I don't even know why I'm still asking this question if I already know the answer?" Aang said as he thought aloud.. Both of them started walking towards the entrance and through the door opening to a big hallway. Just as soon as they took their first few steps into the hallway they were interrupted by someone. Aang stuck out her hand stopping Aang.
"Well looks like they found us." Toph said.
"And who exactly found us?" Aang asked.
"Well who else Twinkle Toes? My parents. Well my mom actually. But once my mom starts somehow my dad will follow up as well." Toph said.
"You're making it sound like it's a bad thing if your parents find us." Aang said.
"I'm just telling you what's going to happen. Oh and remember what I told you. If they mention anything about already marrying me off to someone you step in and tell them you want to marry me." Toph said.
'Yeah no I'm not doing that." Aang said.
"Alright thanks Twinkles." Toph said.
"You're not listening are you?" Aang asked.
"Shh. Twinkle Toes they're here already." Toph said. Just as soon as she said that Toph's mother, Poppy Beifong, found them and started walking towards them. She briefly paused as she saw the Avatar next to her daughter.
"Toph sweetie where have you been?" Poppy asked sweetly.
"Well I was just wandering off in the market." Toph said.
"Looks like you found a friend." Poppy said. Toph smiled and started patting Aang in his shoulder
"Yeah look what the cat dragged back." Toph said.
"Do you have to be this harsh to me?" Aang asked. Toph heard and completely ignored as to what Aang asked.
"What are you talking about?' Toph asked. Poppy looked at her daughter and Aang bickering and smiled at their actions. They looked like an old married couple in her eyes.
"Well what brings you here Avatar?" Poppy asked.
"Could you please call me Aang ma'am? I just don't like being called Avatar all the time." Aang said.
"Yeah unless you want any noble to listen to you then you overuse your title." Toph mumbled. This statement went unnoticed while Poppy and Aang were still having their conversation.
"Oh alright I'll call you by your birth name Aang." Poppy said.
"Thank you Mrs. Beifong. Anyway I came to the Earth Kingdom to come see your daughter." Aang said. This struck Poppy's curiosity. She wondered if he wanted to marry their daughter.
"And why did you come want to see my daughter?" Poppy asked.
"Well we made a little wager six months ago when we were celebrating the defeat of the Fire Nation." Aang said.
"Oh I see and did she win your little 'wager' Aang?" Poppy asked.
"Well by the looks of it I think she did." Aang said.
"After all of this Aang you must be hungry from all your traveling are you not?" Poppy asked. Aang's stomach started rumbling a little bit as soon as she mentioned food.
"I am beginning to feel a little peckish." Aang said. Poppy clapped her hands in pleasure.
"Well then the servants will start cooking for lunch. You can come and eat with us by that time." Poppy said. Aang started bowing to show respect to Toph's mother.
"Thank you very much Mrs. Beifong." Aang said.
"No need to thank me. It's the least I can do after you've done so much for our daughter." Poppy said.
"Well even so I still have to show my gratitude towards you." Aang said. Toph decided to interrupt the conversation since she was growing bored of listening to these two talk.
"So we should come back in a little bit right?" Toph asked.
"Yes dear. Oh and before I forget your father is going to be joining us for lunch, sweetie." Poppy said.
"Oh ok good to know." Toph said. She started dragging Aang towards the exit since she needed to be entertained and her listening to her mother and Aang talking was not a form of entertainment in her eyes. (A/N: Yeah I know she can't see.)
"Oh Aang do you by any chance have anywhere to stay the night?" Poppy asked.
"Eh no. I was actually planning of finding like a small room in the Earth Kingdom or something to that extent." Aang said.
"Nonsense. You can get spend your time remaining here in our home Aang." Poppy said.
"Really? Are you sure? I don't want to be a bother Mrs. Beifong." Aang said.
"Yes really. You can stay here with us." Poppy said. Aang scratched his head in embarrassment as he was starting blushing
"Well then I really don't know what to say." Aang said.
"Oh you don't need to say anything. Now run along Aang. Toph looks like she's bored. She needs entertainment from her future husband." Poppy said. Teasing Aang like that as he began to choke and her daughter was starting to blush a little.
"Well see you later mom." Toph said. She tried getting away from their before her mom kept teasing Aang and her.
"See you later sweetie. Oh and you should probably show Aang around." Poppy said. Little did she know that Aang already knows pretty much everything in the Earth Kingdom.
"Yeah I will do that.' Toph said,
"When then I'll leave you two lovebirds by yourselves." Poppy mumbled to herself. She started laughing as soon as Toph dragged Aang towards the exit. They looked like such and adorable couple. Though she noticed that if they were in a relationship Toph would be the one wearing the pants even if it's very unladylike of her.
He's probably the one for her. Whether Toph wants to admit it or not. Poppy thought to herself. She then walked off to her room to finish some business.
XXXXXXXX
Toph and Aang were walking down by the market where they were a few minutes ago. They both walked in silence as Toph tried as hard to be entertained, but it seemed that wasn't happening since she's recognized almost everything in the six months that Aang was gone.
"Well it seems your parents have changed since the last time I saw them. Well your mom actually. I don't know about your dad." Aang said as he broke the silence between them two.
"My dad is the same as my mom. Although it did take him longer to actually change between the two." Toph said.
"Oh good to know. At least they don't hate me as much." Aang pointed out.
"Anyway, I'm bored Twinkle Toes." Toph said.
"And what exactly do you want me to do?" Aang asked.
"Entertain me." Toph said.
"Yeah I'm not doing that." Aang said.
"You've done it before. Why won't you do it now?" Toph asked.
"Fine then. How about if I talk about what I did during the six months that I was gone?" Aang asked.
"I don't know. What if it was boring?" Toph asked. At this point Aang was starting not to care since he knew what kind of person Toph was.
"Fine then. I won't talk about it." Aang said.
"I didn't ask anyway." Toph said. The local pedestrians all looked at them and smiled as they walked by. To all them Aang and Toph looked like a cute couple arguing over the smallest of things. Aang tried not to notice, but it was quite obvious. He then walked toward Toph and poked her shoulder to get her attention.
"Hey um Toph. I think these people are looking at us." Aang said.
"You just realized that? They've been looking at us for quite some time Twinkle Toes." Toph said.
"Well then what should we do?" Aang asked.
"That's easy. Just ignore them." Toph said.
"Well then ok I guess?" Aang asked. Both of them kept walking past the pedestrians. They kept at it with the small talk until they went past the market and headed towards an empty field.
"Looks like we lost track of time." Toph said. Aang was confused as to what she said. He then turned around and saw that they were beyond the marketplace.
"Oh looks like we have." Aang said
"So then tell me something Twinkle Toes. Are we still doing what you promised that we were gonna do after the war?" Toph asked.
"And what promise would that be?" Aang asked.
"You know. That we'll continue with our adventure even after this war." Toph said.
"Oh sure. Just tell me when you want to depart Toph." Aang said.
"All I can tell you is that It'll be soon." Toph said. Aang then smiled at Toph waiting until the day they can continue on their adventure.
"Well then I'll wait until that day comes." Aang said.
"You know what Twinkle Toes. Now that I've thought about I actually want to hear what you were doing those last six months." Toph requested.
"Oh what's with this sudden turn of events? If I recall correctly you're the one that questioned if my adventures were boring." Aang said.
"Well yeah, but I grew curious." Toph said.
"They do say curiosity kills the cat." Aang said.
"Eh yeah sure whatever you say. Anyway before you tell what you did could you please start from the beginning." Toph said.
"Sure why not. So let's see as soon as I left I went back to the Western Air Temple and continued on with my training in every single place that you and Zuko trained me-"
"Doesn't seem like that to me." Toph interrupted
"Anyways." Aang continued as he was interrupted. "Afterwards I said my goodbyes to the old place since I wasn't going to see for a while. Then I went flying on top of Appa traveling around and we kind of got lost-"
"This is what happens when we leave you by yourself. Please continue with your story don't mind me." Toph laughed as she interrupted Aang again.
"Whatever you say." Aang continued. "While we were lost some of exploring was fun and the other part well… not so much." Aang said. Toph looked at him with a confusing look.
"What exactly do you mean?" Toph asked.
"Well when we were looking around I stumbled into this tiny village. Once I got a closer look at it I felt my heart drop. This place was so bad. They were barely able to survive on food and their water system wasn't anywhere near decent." Aang solemnly said. Toph felt Aang's vibrations change. She felt him going from a calm state into a sad one. She then put a hand on his shoulder.
"Did you at least help them out?" Toph asked.
"Of course I did. You know me Toph, I couldn't stand to see a place so depressed. Especially those kids I saw. The look they had on their face was filled of hurt. Their parent's expression was no different. So, I decided to go speak with the village leader, or in this case the village elder." Aang said.
"So why'd you want to speak with him?" Toph asked.
"Well that's obvious. So I can see if I can help out. But he said that their village had been going through a drought for about a few years. At the time I wanted to use my water bending to see if I can help out, but then I realized that it wasn't a good idea." Aang said.
"Why's that?" Toph asked.
"If I showed them who I was they probably would've relied on my powers and that wouldn't solve their problems." Aang said.
"So what did you try doing?" Toph asked.
"Well the easiest thing to do was creating a well for them. But there was a problem." Aang said.
"Which was?" Toph asked.
"Well for starters the elder told me that this place was completely dry. Also some of the people there were starting to dislike me since they didn't like change." Aang said.
"Since the place was dry what did you do?" Toph asked. Aang looked at her and gave her a big grin.
"I dug and kept digging underground." Aang said.
"Of course you did. You're so stubborn I should've seen that coming." Toph said.
"But you're blind aren't you?" Aang asked. Toph punched Aang in his shoulder. He was half expecting that reaction from her.
"So what happened afterwards?" Toph said.
"Well I spent the next six months finding water. After two months the people of the village started helping me. In return I helped them learn how to bend their natural element." Aang said.
"Did you find water?" Toph asked.
"Yeah. After they made the well they kept a lake near there as well. Get this they called the tiny lake Aang's Rivulet." Aang said.
"You and your stupid adventures." Toph said.
"Yeah and what of them?" Aang questioned.
"Nothing. Anyway let's head back for lunch Twinkle Toes." Toph said.
"Fine then. Lead the way Toph." Aang said.
XXXXXXXX
Once they were back to the Beifong manor they headed straight to the dining area. Throughout that whole trip Toph realized how much Aang had matured after the war. Although she would never say out loud, but sometimes she would worry over what Aang would do. In the dining arena Toph's parents, Poppy and Lao Beifong were waiting for the two of them.
"Hello there Toph and Aang." Lao said.
"Hello there to you to sir." Aang said.
"Oh no need for formality. You can just call me Lao." Lao said.
"I'll try." Aang said.
"Anyway what brings you here Aang?" Lao asked. Aang didn't feel like repeating himself so he just decided to keep it short.
"Just visiting." Aang responded.
"Now now dear let's not bombard him with questions. Instead let's enjoy this lunch." Poppy said.
"You're right dear. Besides I have some business to attend to afterwards." Lao said. With that they started enjoying their lunch. But it can't be a normal lunch without Toph messing with Aang. She stomped lightly on the floor causing Aang to move his spoon and dropping some of the hot stew on hm. Toph lightly chuckled at Aang's 'clumsiness.'
"It looks like you spilled some food on yourself." Toph said. Aang stared at her as she was being sarcastic and pretty much working on his nerves.
"Yeah I wonder how that happened?" Aang asked.
"It's probably because you're so clumsy Twinkle Toes." Toph said. Toph's parents started laughing at the nickname Toph gave Aang.
"Twinkle Toes? Why do you exactly call him that dear?" Poppy asked. Toph looked at her mother and gave her a smile.
"Well that's because he's very light on his feet. Besides I can tell who he is right away from his footsteps." Toph said.
"Does he respond to that nickname? It's not very manly of him if he does." Lao said Aang was mumbling about blind earthbenders and the annoyance it puts on him.
"Oh you better believe he responds to that name." Toph said. Aang's pride and dignity kept being stepped on by Toph and now her father as well.
"Yeah well I have no choice or else she won't leave me alone." Aang mumbled.
"What was that Twinkles Toes?" Toph asked.
"And it continues on." Aang said.
"Well at least we know you two get along." Poppy said.
"Yeah she seems a little more tame with him. How do you do it Aang? How do you keep her calm?" Lao asked. Aang scratched his head and wondered the same thing.
"Actually I don't know if she's calmer with me. I mean all I know is that she likes messing with me a lot." Aang said.
"You know I'm right here?" Toph said.
"And that's exactly why we're talking." Poppy said. Aang and Toph's parents laughed at how embarrassed she got when they called her out.
"Well then I think I've eaten quite enough." Lao said.
"Yes it seemed like time flew right out the window." Poppy said. Aang looked and bowed to Toph's parents.
"Well thanks again for the meal." Aang said.
"Nonsense my dear it was our pleasure having you joined us for lunch." Poppy said.
"Yes truth be told, it seems like the is the nicest time that I've had lunch with my family in quite some time." Lao said.
"It was my pleasure being here." Aang said.
"Will you join us again for dinner?" Lao asked. Poppy patted onto Lao's shoulder as she completely forgot to the Lao about Aang's stay.
"Oh I forgot to tell you dear. Aang's going to be staying in one of the rooms here while he remains in the Earth Kingdom." Poppy said.
"Very well then. I'll be back for dinner. I hope that you can make in time as well Aang." Lao said.
"Yes I'll be back in time for dinner." Aang said. Toph was sitting there minding her own business until she got tired of listening to people talk since she was feeling bored.
"Anyway let's go do some stuff." Toph said. She started pulling Aang as she wasn't going to take no as an answer from him. Her parents laughed at how she interacted with the Avatar.
"Well see you around dearies." Poppy said.
"Yeah will see you later." Toph said. She kept dragging Aang until they got to the entrance and he finally got his footing back.
"So why'd you drag me out here?" Aang asked.
"Because it was starting to get boring in there." Toph said.
"Probably since you don't like socializing as much." Aang deduced.
"Hmm probably." Toph said.
"So the only reason you dragged me all the way from the dining area to the exit was because you WERE BORED?" Aang said as he shouted the last part. Toph smiled at Aang.
"Yeah that's exactly why I did it. Seems like you're getting smarter Twinkle Toes." Toph said. Aang facepalmed as he dreaded everything Toph was doing to him.
"Ughh what did I do to deserve this?" Aang moaned.
"Oh quit being a drama queen Twinkle Toes. Anyway what do you want to do since we have a whole lot of free time on our plate?" Toph asked. Aang was thinking as to what to do until he remembered something. He remembered that he promised to visit Sokka and Suki.
"Actually Toph I have to visit Sokka since I promised I would." Aang said.
"Oh ok. So do you know where Snoozles lives?" Toph asked.
"Sure I do." Aang said. He started walking towards the exit and stopped since he forgot where he lived.
"You forgot didn't you?" Toph asked.
"Yeah." Aang said. Toph shook her head in disbelief. This was the person who stopped the Fire Nation and it's leader.
"Typical Twinkle Toes. Follow me then." Toph said. She then dragged him as they were headed towards the market.
XXXXXXXX
Aang had to follow Toph the whole way to Sokka and Suki's house since Aang completely forgot about where they lived and Toph had been there a few times since Suki insisted for her to visit them every once in awhile. Once they arrived there Aang knocked on the door waiting for them to open the door. Sokka could be heard rushing and cleaning the house since he forgot that Aang forgot was coming to visit them. As soon as he was done he opened the door and was surprised to see Toph tag along with Aang.
"Hey buddy how's it going?" Sokka asked.
"Hey Sokka it going pretty good I guess." Aang said.
"Not to seem rude, but what brings you here Toph?" Sokka asked.
"Well Twinkle Toes over here forgot where you guys live. So I had to come show him the directions on getting here." Toph said.
"I showed you where we lived and you forgot?" Sokka asked.
"Sorry sorry it completely slipped my mind." Aang said.
"It's alright buddy. Anyways come in Suki in the living room waiting for us." Sokka said. They followed Sokka into the living room and saw Suki sitting down on the couch waiting for them. Once she saw them walking in she jumped in excitement and hugged the both of them.
"Hi guys. It's been awhile hasn't it?" Suki asked.
"Well yeah the last time I saw any of you guys was about six months ago." Aang said.
"From what I hear the only person you said goodbye to was Toph." Suki teased.
"Seems like you're a little jealous." Toph said.
"Me? Jealous? I think you've got this twisted Toph. The person that seemed jealous was Sokka." Suki said.
"Is that right? So you were bothered by it Snoozles?" Toph asked.
"A little to be perfectly honest, but then Aang told me how he was helping you out with your personal problem." Sokka said.
"Whatever you say Snoozles." Toph said. Sokka was quite annoyed of the nickname given to him by Toph. Suki saw this and decided to change the subject.
"So Aang you must tell us what you've been doing these past six months I'm just eager to hear what you've up to." Suki said.
"Yeah same here." Sokka said.
"Well if you insist." Aang said. He then started telling the same story he told Toph. By the end of the story they were laughing at what Aang was able to pull off in under six months.
"So were there any lucky ladies to have caught the attention of the Avatar?" Sokka asked. Aang put his hand on his chin pondering at Sokka's question.
"Well there was this one girl who was getting near me a lot." Aang said. Toph then felt something stir in her stomach, but ignored it. Suki noticed and started smiling at how the blind earthbender was feeling a little jealous.
"Oh and pray tell what did you do?" Suki asked.
"Well I was just being friendly to her." Aang said.
"That's it? You mean to tell me you didn't find her attractive or anything at all?" Sokka asked.
"Well I mean she was pretty. But I didn't have the time to really get to know her since I was trying to help out the village." Aang said. Suki and Sokka both facepalmed while Toph just smirked. Typical Aang he would just do something like that.
"Wow." Sokka said.
They kept talking for a while telling each other stories and cracking jokes along the way. All four friends spent almost the whole day chatting and catching up. It only seemed like a few minutes, but like they say, time flies when you're having fun. Once Toph realized this she poked Aang to get his attention and look at the time.
"Well we have to get going guys. My parents are waiting so that we could eat dinner together." Toph said.
"Is it really that time already?" Aang asked.
"Well then we shouldn't keep you waiting then. It was nice catching up with you Aang." Suki said.
"Likewise." Aang replied.
"It was nice seeing you again buddy." Sokka said.
"Yeah it was nice seeing you again after all his time." Aang said.
"We should probably get going Twinkle Toes." Toph said.
"You know I still don't understand how you keep responding to that nickname." Sokka said.
"At this point it's only natural for me to respond or else she'll just keep on annoying me." Aang sheepishly said.
"Makes sense." Sokka said. Aang and Toph were stood up and were headed towards the exit, but not before saying goodbye to his friends.
"Well anyway see you later guys." Aang said.
"See you later Aang." Suki said. Aang and Toph were soon walking out. Sokka and Suki saw them walk off into the distance.
"How much do you want to bet that Aang and Toph are going to hook up?" Suki asked.
"No way. Aang wouldn't' fall for someone like Toph." Sokka said.
"So how much?" Suki asked.
"You know I don't like having bets with you because I always lose them." Sokka said.
XXXXXXXX
After they were done catching up with their friends Toph and Aang headed back to her house since her parents had invited Aang to dinner. They tried hurrying up since both of them were hungry. Once they walked in Toph's parents were waiting for them to eat.
"Sorry we took so long." Aang tried apologizing.
"I was just about to ask what took you slowpokes so long?" Lao asked.
"Well Twinkle Toes had to catch up with some friends of ours and he completely forgot where they lived so naturally I had to help him find where they live." Toph said.
"You mean that young man from the Water Tribe and the Kyoshi Warrior?" Poppy asked.
"Yeah exactly them two." Aang said.
"Well I hope you had a good time with them." Poppy said.
"I don't know about Toph, but I actually had a good time catching up with them." Aang said. Toph shrugged her shoulders.
"Eh I can't complain I guess." Toph said.
"Good to know. Now we can start eating." Lao said. Everyone knew that he just wanted to start eating. Truth be told no one could blame him. Everyone ate and tried cracking jokes even if they were hits or misses and they told stories about anything. Something then struck Aang. This is the first time he's actually felt like he was eating with a real family. It made him feel happy just thinking that. After everyone finished Lao decided he needed to talk with Aang about a certain matter.
"Aang could I please have a word with you in the balcony?" Lao asked.
"Oh sure. Lead the way." Aang said. Lao then walked off waiting for Aang to follow suit. After many turns and hallways they reached the balcony.
"Listen Aang I need to talk to you about something important." Lao said.
"What is it Lao?" Aang asked.
"Well for starters I'd like to apologize." Lao said.
"What for exactly?" Aang asked.
"For holding a grudge against you. For a while I didn't like the fact that you came and kidnapped my daughter. Not until Toph convinced me." Lao said.
"Oh ok. What's the other thing you wanted to talk with me about?" Aang asked.
"It's about Toph actually." Lao said.
"What about Toph?" Aang questioned.
"Well for starters I'd like to thank you for everything you've done for her." Lao said.
"I don't understand." Aang said.
"Well for starters Toph kind of had it difficult growing up. As you know we kept her hidden from the public so she didn't have any friends or anyone to talk to for that matter." Lao said.
"What does this have to do with me?" Aang asked still not understanding.
"Everything actually. I always thought if we pampered her with anything she wanted she would be happy. That seemed like that wasn't the case. In fact she resented us more because of that. It wasn't after that she met you that she began to change. She began to be more understandable, and more sympathetic to others. I don't know what you did to change her, but I want to thank you to for that." Lao bowed down to Aang.
"Look you don't need to bow. I should be thanking you instead." Aang said.
"And why's that Aang?" Lao asked.
"Well honestly she helped me turn into the person that I am today. She taught me what 'fighting will all you've got' meant. During the time she was training me before fight Ozai I was beginning to have second thoughts about fighting him. That happened a lot not to mention that. But she was there helping me every step of the way in order to help build my confidence. I don't understand how she was able to have that much patience with me. She's probably the only friend that I could depend on. Although she gets on my nerves sometimes I couldn't ask for a better friend." Aang finished. Lao was left speechless after all the Avatar spoke about his daughter.
"Do you trust her that much?" Lao asked.
"To be perfectly honest with you. I trust her with my life. Just like she does with me." Aang said.
"Tell me this Aang. Do you love my daughter?" Lao asked. Aang stared at him after the question that was just asked.
"I don't know. I don't know." Aang said.
"Would you choose to save her and let the rest of the world fall d or save the rest of the world and abandon her?" Lao asked. Aang couldn't answer that question since he did have feelings for her, but he's also the Avatar and it was his job to protect the world and maintain peace.
"I don't know. I just don't know. I just don't want Toph to get hurt for my sake." Aang said.
"I see. Then could I ask for a request?" Lao asked.
"If it's within my power I'll do it." Aang said.
"Alright, then could you please protect Toph?" Lao asked.
"You can bet your life that I'll protect her." Aang reassured. Lao sighed as he can finally rest easier knowing his daughter is in safe hands. With that conversation Lao bid Aang a goodnight. Just as he was leaving Toph was walking towards Aang.
"Hi Twinkle Toes." Toph said.
"Hey Toph." Aang said.
"So where you guys talking about anything important?" Toph asked.
"How much did you hear?" Aang asked.
"What do you mean?" Toph asked.
"I felt that you were within ear distance." Aang said.
"Looks like I don't need to keep pretending then." Toph said.
"So how much did you catch?" Aang asked.
"Just enough." Toph said. Aang turned away from her so that he wouldn't pressured to talk to Toph.
"That's good." Aang said. Toph then walked behind Aang and hugged from behind.
"Hey Toph what are yo-"
"Did you mean that promise?" Toph interrupted.
"What promise?" Aang asked.
"Do you promise to protect me with your life?" Toph asked. Aang then smiled at her question
"Of course in a blink of an eye. Just like you would with me." Aang said.
"Good." Toph said. They remained like that for a few more minutes. Toph's parents could be seen from the hallway smiling at her daughter and the Avatar. They knew that her daughter was in good hands thanks to the Avatar. Whether or not everyone was happy with the aftermath of the war the Blind Bandit and the Avatar sure were.
A/N: So hi. It's been a minute since I updated and well yeah there goes chapter 5. I'll post another chapter around the same time I took with this one. Even though this story has a small following I still enjoy when people actually give a crap to read this fanfic. To those of you who keep reading this story I want to thank you. Anyway there's some references in this chapter just like my previous chapters have had. If you spot them you will get a soda with licorice as a straw (I'm pretty sure some don't like that.) Thanks for reading and please if you could review that would be good. I appreciate you guys :))))