…Rage Of The Black Dragon…

Warnings: This chapter contains:- a little bit of angst, mental health issues, possessiveness, mention of mental breakdown, fluff, Zuko and Aang meeting, and Aang falling in love at first sight! All reviews are appreciated.

P.P.S.: This is an Omegaverse story as in Alpha/Beta/Omega dynamic, with Alpha Aang and Omega Zuko, so you have been warned! And it is also a time travel one! The titles that would be used for the Omegaverse dynamic in this story, are from the Chinese fandom (As the story would have many customs and cultures from southern and eastern Asia; China specifically):-

Alpha - Qianyuan

Omega - Kunze

Beta – Zhongyong

P.P.P.S: This is a dark (And I mean really dark!) story that takes place in the ALTA's timeline (The original show, not the live adaptation, but who knows, maybe I will add a pointer or two from the NATLA after I watch it?) to some extent but with many major changes such as Aang being aged up to sixteen and Zuko being OOC; this story is also the first part of the series that would follow the first chapter but diverge after a certain point.

Chapter 3

Zuko hadn't felt this nervous for a long time now; the pounding of his heart like a hummingbird about to escape, the sweating of hands as they shook and he tried to control them. The hope almost drowned him with the possibilities and the what-ifs, the eagerness, and happiness at the thought of finally meeting his beloved after all these years; the fire blazing inside him at the idea of being so close to the other half of his soul.

Aang… Zuko was going to see his beloved Aang after all these years, it almost seemed too good to be true; almost like a dream his feverish mind came up with to consul him and give him hope to continue living for another day… Will you remember everything like me? Or will you live in ignorance just like our first life? …Zuko couldn't help but ponder as the icy walls of Wolf Cove came into view, desires warred inside of him, each side tried to tell him the pros and cons of every situation that would greet him… It doesn't matter in the end, because you are back… Zuko agreed in the end, nodding as he steeled his resolve, no matter what the situation would be, Zuko would come up as the winner in the end, it wasn't a matter of 'If' but 'When'… Everything will turn out alright this time, I will make sure of that… Zuko vowed, letting out a breath and watching the fog swirling in front of him.

"Here nephew." Iroh came to Zuko with a gentle smile before offering him his white fur coat, an action even when unnecessary (Because Zuko was an experienced Fire Bender with enough strength and power that a little cold from the South Pole wouldn't affect him) warmed his heart greatly.

"You didn't have to," Zuko mumbled, still, he took the coat from his uncle's hands, offering the older man a smile as he wore the coat, letting out a hum at the warmth that encased him as soon as he did… Maybe the soft approach would make Aang come without struggle this time… Zuko pondered, as he straightened the coat, his eyes narrowed as he watched the 'Black Snow' Sokka told him about swirling in the air and flying as far as the icy breeze demanded after taking hold of it in its unforgiving grip. "Do not destroy the walls." He called out, his orders were carried out around the ship, making the crew shout orders and jump around the place to stop the ship before it collided with the icy walls.

This time, Zuko watched as the ship finally came to a stop near the shore and away from Wolf Cove; even from this far he could hear the frightful voices of the people from within. The guilt from his past life for destroying these walls and attacking those people came to rear its ugly self before he shook his head and snapped himself out of it… This is a different life. I didn't destroy the place; Sokka doesn't have any reason to jab and try to guilt-trip me like he used to this time… That made a shadow of a smile appear on Zuko's face before he wiped it off and walked to the ramp flanked by his uncle and some of the crew who loved acting like his guards, even when everyone knew he was capable of protecting himself.

Reaching the icy ground, Zuko was greeted by the sight of Sokka with his funny war paint and a glare on his face as he stood guard in front of Wolf Cove's entrance, ready to defend the place from Zuko. The sight of his friend (Alive and well and not dead or Agni knows where) made Zuko's breath hitch before he controlled himself, and stood straight (Now was not the time to cry, it was not the time to weep and thank the Gods and kowtow to Agni and thank him for this beautiful blessing he gained after years of suffering and pain), giving the Zhongyong a placid smile that he hoped wasn't threatening.

"Greetings." Zuko started, his eyes darted around as he tried to find his beloved in the mass of people that were all over the place, trying to catch a glimpse of him through the gates. His heart was going wild as he counted the seconds, waiting for his beloved to show up. "I-" Before Zuko even continued, he had to wince when Sokka let out a war cry (Or really, a frightened screech that gritted on the ears) before running at him with his club, causing his uncle and the crew around him to tense and prepare for an attack, only for Zuko to raise his hand and stop them from hurting his friend… Zuko couldn't help the amusement taking hold of him when he flipped Sokka over his shoulder and threw the club as far away from where Sokka was thrown. "I did not come with the intention to harm or cause discord, so please refrain from attacking," Zuko said, watching Sokka who wiggled out of the ice mounds where Zuko threw him and sent Zuko a harsh glare.

"As if I will believe the words of an Ash Maker!" Sokka all but shrieked as he dusted the snow and scrambled to stand, his words making the crew, especially Lieutenant Jee growl as he advanced on Sokka, only to stop when Zuko shook his head.

"I think there is a bit of misunderstanding going around here," Iroh said, walking until he stood in front of Zuko, his smile was kind and his demeanor showed nothing but openness and gentleness; but Zuko? He could see the hardness and anger shining in his uncle's eyes and the protectiveness exuded off him in waves. "We came here searching for someone, if you just answered some of our questions we would be on our way, we mean no harm; look we are not even wearing the Fire Nation colors or armor," Iroh explained with a kind smile, and Zuko could see the nervousness and fear on every face from the tribe, before an old woman took a shaky step toward them, shaking Katara's hands off (Oh, how much his anger ignited; oh, how much he wanted to forget all that he promised himself and attack this stupid, stupid girl; hate and anger took hold of him and he had to take deep breaths just to stop himself from attacking the girl who betrayed Aang when they desperately needed her).

"Who are you searching for?" The older woman asked slowly; wariness and fear shining in her eyes as she reached them and pulled Sokka by the arm before the boy could attack once more and end up breaking whatever olive branch that was offered. Fear was palpable on every face that watched them from far away, and Zuko could only shift and look away from the sight; trying not to frown as he searched for the place his beloved was hiding in.

Where are you Aang? …Impatient, that was how Zuko felt, his body buzzed as his inside twisted with every minute away from his beloved... Isn't a decade enough? How long should I wait for you to show up again? …Zuko sighed before giving the older woman a strained smile. "Whatever caused the source of light seen before; I promise we will leave as soon as you point us in his direction." Nervousness and even some anger were seen on Sokka's face (Terror and fear in Katara's but Zuko didn't give a damn) as for the older woman she looked confused like she didn't know what was going on… which probably she didn't.

"You are looking for me?" Zuko's heart skipped a beat (Or several he didn't know) when he heard that voice, his breath hitched and he had to try his hardest to control himself from whirling around and rushing to the person who talked and threw himself in his beloved's arms… This is not the right time… Zuko tried to convince himself as he clenched his fists tightly that his nails made crescent shapes in his palm… This is not the right time, not when everyone was watching… Zuko tried to force himself to turn slowly, and not break down and cry or lose what was left of his sanity and act crazy in front of his beloved and scare him.

Whatever Zuko expected, he didn't expect the air to leave his lungs and for his legs to shake as he came face to face with his beloved. The sight of orange and yellow robes of the Air Monks, the blue tattoos decorating his beloved informing all who saw him of his mastery over his element, the grey eyes that changed color when the lights hit them differently… Zuko's breath hitched as he stood frozen in place, his eyes took in his beloved and tried to quench his thirst as if he were a man thrown into a desert without water, and only now, did he manage to find an oasis after days of searching….

Aang… Zuko wanted to call out to his beloved, to scream his name for everyone to hear… Aang… he wanted to run toward the Qianyuan to pull him in his arms and hold him tightly… Aang… Zuko wanted to weep, he wanted to cry and blame his beloved for leaving him, even when part of him knew he promised to forget this slight when they met again… Aang, Aang, it's me, Aang, don't you recognize me?! … a hysterical part of Zuko shouted, and Zuko had to control himself or he would end up releasing his fire just to stop the pressure he felt inside of him, choking him.

Grey eyes cut through him, there was only nervousness, no recognition to be seen; breaking Zuko's heart into pieces as he tried to control himself and stop the tears that wanted to be shed… it wasn't like part of him didn't know this possibility could occur, it wasn't like Zuko didn't think of a plan if this was the case… it didn't stop Zuko from… but it didn't mean that it didn't hurt…. Zuko could only swallow, and give his beloved a trembling smile before walking around his uncle to face his Aang.

No matter how much Zuko dreamed of this moment; no matter how much he wanted to spirit Aang away from this world and hide him; no matter how much he ached to pull his beloved into his arms and forget everything that wasn't Aang… it seemed to Zuko that he was unprepared when he finally faced his beloved for the first time, looking as he should be, whole and beautiful and full of many dreams and potentials that wasn't snuffed by his Ozai's hands.

Zuko saw how his beloved tilted his head with curiosity shining in his eyes, even as his hands clenched and unclenched around his staff as if preparing for a fight to take place… It's alright Aang, everything is going to be alright, I am here now; I won't allow for bad things to happen to you again… Zuko vowed, taking a deep breath to calm himself down.

Not trusting himself to speak without embarrassing himself or starting to cry; Zuko gained a few seconds of gathering himself by bowing toward Aang respectfully, causing his beloved to let out a confused noise. "Greetings, Avatar," Zuko managed to say after knowing his voice wouldn't crack or break. Gasps and shocked murmurs were heard behind him, Sokka's shocked exclamation and Katara's choked noise were the loudest… Ah, it seemed that this was the time when you were still not accepting of who… Zuko's heart felt a pang of pain when he saw his beloved flinch and clutched his staff tightly

Aang pressed his lips tightly forming a thin line, Zuko narrowed his eyes, wondering what his beloved was thinking about; whether he would try to pull a disappearing act or fight like they did the first time. "You seem to know a lot about me when I don't even know your name, care to introduce yourself?" Aang questioned after a while, giving a strained smile, his eyes not leaving Zuko, his uncle, or the crew behind.

"Ah, my apologies." Zuko tried to give a charming smile, even when inside he wanted nothing but to hide under his blankets and cry at how disinterested and cold Aang was acting… It's alright, Aang is hurt, wasn't this during the period where Monk Gyatso… Zuko wondered before saying "My name is Zuko, and this is my uncle Iroh, it's nice to finally find you after all these years." Zuko introduced himself, his words making Aang's lips twitch down, his eyes still flickering between Zuko, his uncle, and the Water Tribe who were still gaping at him.

"I didn't think I was that popular a search party will be sent for me." Aang shifted, and Zuko didn't need to be a genius to realize that his beloved was a second away from either fleeing or attacking, no doubt feeling cornered and exposed (So different from the past when Zuko attacked and endangered everyone around here, forcing his beloved to exchange himself for the safety of those around him).

"A Lot of things have changed in the past one hundred years, Aa-Avatar." Zuko caught himself before he said his beloved's name, giving a strained smile as he saw his beloved press his lips tightly and studied him harshly. "If you will; please, come with me, as important things need to be discussed immediately." Zuko tried to coax in a gentle voice.

"No!" No other than Katara shouted as she ran toward them, ignoring Sokka's shouting for her to stop, and her grandmother's hands that tried to stop him. "I won't allow you to kill our only hope!" Katara growled, the sight of her was enough for Zuko's face to harden until a glare painted his face (Oh, how much Zuko wanted to wrap his fingers around her neck and squeeze, maybe even burn that wretched girl and be over with it… oh how much he wanted to finish her… but Aang was there, watching him… and Zuko couldn't do this to Sokka, the man who sacrificed many things and lost everything because of the sister he loved) when he saw the girl running to attack him.

Zuko took a step back when Katara tried to bend the water to attack, only to fail miserably, which made her shout and jump at him and punch him. It didn't take long before Lieutenant Jee caught Katara by the back of her coat, shaking her and snarling at her with anger in his eyes. "You Ice Savages!" The older man shook Katara after he picked her up, ignoring the shouting coming from the Water Tribe as terror shined in their eyes. "Attacking a Kunze unprovoked, how low can you fall?!" The man growled; his face twisted into a frightening look that made Katara pale as the realization of how serious the situation was, finally sank in.

"Lieutenant Jee, enough, let her go, please," Zuko told the man (One of his uncle's close friends, a man who left the Fire Nation both in this life and in the past because he didn't agree with how the Fire Nation was deviating from Agni's laws and will under Ozai's rule), which made the older man look at Zuko with a stubbornness that told him he didn't want to, before finally letting go of Katara (Who was pulled away by Sokka) when Iroh put his hand on his friend's shoulder.

The audacity… Zuko could only raise his eyebrow wondering from where Katara managed to gather her courage to attack when previously, she could only shake in her place like a terrified mouse… To think being civil and not threatening her or her people would give her the courage to walk over her betters… truly no shame… Zuko let out an annoyed breath, turning toward his beloved who looked conflicted, a look that Zuko wanted to erase but couldn't, as his beloved didn't trust him at this time.

"I will come with you!" Aang called out, standing between the Fire Nation crew and the Water Tribe, looking afraid and nervous but still, he tried to do what was right and protect the people around him. "Just promise you won't hurt the people here." Aang looked at Zuko with pleading eyes, and Zuko could only let out a sigh, softening immediately when facing his love.

"Avatar, we promised them no harm; we just wanted a few questions to be answered and for you to come with us," Iroh said with one of his charming smiles, making Aang bite his lower lip before letting out a breath, nodding his head and taking a step toward them shakily.

"If this is what you truly mean…" Aang's words trailed off as he offered a nervous smile before turning to the Water Tribe and bowing to them. "I apologize for troubling you with my affairs… uh… please take care of Appa, I will come back soon to get him." Aang then straightened himself and walked toward Zuko, whose heart pounded inside of his chest and he had to force a smile and guide Aang to the ship.

"Aang! No! Don't do this!" Katara called out loudly, being restrained by her brother, who growled and hissed something under his breath trying to calm his sister down, Zuko ignored the annoying girl, trying not to scowl as he heard her annoying voice, planning on keeping his face serene as he guided his beloved to the deck of the ship…

…Finally, Aang was here…

Zuko sat in his chair, gazing at his beloved who shifted in his seat and tried not to jump off the deck at any given moment; Aang laughed nervously when Zuko gave him an encouraging smile and pushed the plate of egg custard tart toward him. "Thank you, uncle," Zuko said as he took the cup of tea from the older man, and returned his attention toward his beloved who smiled nervously and took his cup from Iroh with a quick and polite 'Thank you'. Zuko took a sip of his tea, letting the taste and scent of Red Date Tea calm him; trying to control himself from doing something he would regret, like throwing himself in his beloved's arms or kissing him breathlessly… Aang is here! …Was on repeat in his head as his eyes refused to leave his beloved, who looked around with confusion before taking a tiny sip of tea.

After finally, having Aang with him on the ship, Zuko told his uncle and Lieutenant Jee subtly to set the course to Kyoshi Island, knowing that if history repeated itself (Even if the outcome was different) then Aang wouldn't stay around much longer (A thought that broke him and almost made him lose it and lock his beloved in his room to mark him so he wouldn't leave; but Zuko managed to stop himself from doing so and scaring his beloved) with him here. This time instead of having his beloved locked in the dungeon (Or locking him inside his bedroom; an impulse that looked inviting every second that passed) Zuko decided to allow his uncle to have what his heart desired by hosting a tea party on the deck, an activity that his uncle looked too happy to host (And Aang looked endearing in his confusion and polite nature… maybe that would endear Aang to Iroh, so when Zuko decided to elope with his beloved his uncle wouldn't roast him on the spot… an idea to ponder on).

"Um… I… uh… I am sorry?" Aang suddenly said when it seemed that he had had enough and managed to gather his thoughts into a good line to start a conversation.

"About what?" Zuko couldn't help but ask, wondering why his beloved would feel sorry for anything when he hadn't done anything wrong (Nothing that Zuko knew of, considering that it was only a few hours ago since Aang was freed from his icy prison).

"Um… for what Katara -the Water Tribe girl- had done… their culture is… kinda… different… when… it c-came to… uh… dealing with… Kunzes… and such…" Aang mumbled, looking so ashamed and embarrassed that he almost slid down his chair; his words made both Iroh and Zuko raise their eyebrows (Both for different reasons, but Zuko, couldn't help but hide his smile behind his teacup and let out a thoughtful hum).

"Being the Avatar doesn't mean you have to put yourself in such situations and try to explain what should have already been taught at a younger age," Zuko said dryly behind his cup, inside his heart, he remembered all of the embarrassing situations Aang threw them in because his attempts to defuse the situation actually escalated it; dearly hoping this time they wouldn't happen (Even if part of him wouldn't actually mind them happening because being with Aang even in such situations was fun).

"Haha… yeah… sorry…" Aang smiled nervously before taking a sip of his tea. "By the way my name is Aang, sorry for not introducing myself before, but… uh… I don't think before would have been a good time for an introduction and such… Hehe…" He is blabbering… Zuko thought with amusement, knowing that it would take Aang a few more seconds of such an awkward situation before he started shifting uncontrollably and would end up getting his marbles and playing with them to control his nerves and stop his jitters… an action that had always brought amusement to Zuko when he got to know his beloved after joining him.

"So, Avatar Aang, I do not want to be presumptuous, but I dearly hope you will tell me how you found yourself here, looking young too! Between you and me can you tell me your secret? It will help greatly when talking with the Ladies…" His uncle leaned near Aang to whisper, causing Zuko to clear his throat loudly in embarrassment, as for Aang, he let out a small laugh seeming to finally relax; the atmosphere turned into something lighter as the three of them chatted about this, and that for a while, not daring to breach the heavy subject and were content with lighter topics that would calm Aang and not send him off the edge.

"I…. oh… I wanted to ask before, but I didn't know how to bring it up… what did you mean by things changing in the past hundred years?" Aang asked, a small smile on his lips, his question made whatever humor Zuko felt as he heard his uncle's wild tales, to be wiped out instantly as he remembered the situation at hand. "I mean, Katara did say a long time had passed since the Avatar was last seen, but…" Aang's words trailed off when he saw how Zuko and Iroh looked at each other and then at Aang.

"Aang…" Zuko said softly, putting his cup down. "I am sorry…" Zuko started, before gently trying to break the news, knowing that if Aang were to lash out, Zuko wouldn't get hurt even when he was the barrier of the bad news, unlike if the situation was reversed and his uncle or anyone else tried to explain, which would no doubt result in his beloved stressing himself and entering the Avatar State. Even while knowing this, it didn't stop Zuko's heart from feeling stabs of pain when he saw denial and hurt shining on Aang's face (He never wanted his beloved to look like this, if Zuko had the power he would have preferred if his beloved had lived in ignorance of the horror that was waiting for him out there. But Zuko knew, he knew that sooner or later Aang would have known what happened to his people, and knowing this now would prepare him better when facing the world that was hellbent on hunting the Avatar).

"I… n-no… I… you… n… you are lying!" Aang jumped, knocking his chair as he backed as far away as he could, looking at Zuko with a look that held too many emotions it was hard to categorize. "I-it… n-no…" Aang mumbled, stumbling and backing away, looking disoriented, confused, and so scared, that Zuko's heart, ached for him.

It wasn't long before Appa's voice resonated not that far, snapping Aang from the spiral he sent himself in. "Aang…" Zuko could only whisper as he saw his beloved taking his staff and running away; an ugly feeling reared its head when Zuko was left alone, watching his beloved getting so far that Zuko would never be able to catch him now even if he tried.

"What now, Zuko?" Iroh asked, his voice gentle, standing beside him and gazing at Aang who reached Appa and directed it in the opposite direction of Zuko's destination… The Southern Air Temple… something whispered in Zuko's ear, forcing him to let out a sad sigh, knowing what was waiting for his beloved there.

"Continue our destination to Kyoshi Island…" Zuko ended up saying after a while, picking up the chair Aang knocked down with a frown on his face. "I have a hunch we will meet the Avatar there…" Zuko let out a tired sigh gazing at the spot where he last saw Appa and Aang go, wanting to go with his beloved but knowing that this was Aang's journey to complete alone before their roads crossed once more….

…Zuko just needed to have some patience…

…(Aang didn't know what to feel anymore… he didn't know what to do or what was happening around him, all that he knew was the confusion, pain, and denial that took a grip on his heart and refused to let go until he stood in the Southern Air Temple, horror and pain taking hold of him as he gazed at what was left of his life.

When he woke up a few days ago, the only thought on his mind was the grief that took over his heart, his sadness and pain were still an ever-present river that refused to dry, not when the loss he felt was still so fresh and the pain so great. When Aang woke up from the ice a few days ago, Aang could only try to distract his heart from the harsh facts that were thrust into his face a few hours ago (Days? Weeks? Months? Years? A century?!) when the Elders had cornered him not only to tell him that he would be forced to take his duties as the Avatar immediately but also told him that Monk Gya… they didn't even allow him to grief…

So Aang ran away… he ran away and refused to look back; ignoring the rain that belted him down, ignoring the thunder and lightning and the fact he was leaving everyone behind. He ignored everything as he tried to escape this madness, he saw himself in… only to slam into the ocean and wake up a hundred years later into madness once more… a madness that he couldn't even make sense of as he was told that his people… his people… how could he grief his people probably when he didn't have the time to grief Monk Gy-?!

Aang woke up, he woke up near the Southern Water Tribe disoriented and confused; he met Katara and Sokka and got to know them and was happy to make friends (If you could call them friends when their first meeting… or second… or third when he brought the Fire Nation to their door, making friends) with the two siblings. Then guilt took over when he saw the Fire Nation ship going toward Katara and Sokka's home, and then it was a race with time to reach them and help them before something bad could happen…

Then there was confusion as Aang didn't know what to do… what Aang expected from Sokka and Katara's tales (Soldiers with armor and no mercy, killing machine that wouldn't hesitate to kill the old and young; Fire Nation soldiers who burn everything in their path) was not what he was met with at all.

A Prince from the Fire Nation? A Noble from one of the Fire Nation Noble houses? A rich son of a merchant? That was what Aang's brain could think of as he saw a boy his age surrounded by his guards… A lost boy; probably took a bad turn and found himself here… His mind agreed when he heard the boy try to talk with the people and not threaten them, or do any of the unsavory things Katara and Sokka claimed.

Long dark hair in a half-up half-down style that Aang used to see from the Noble Houses' family members; long white fur coat that Aang was sure, hid the body of a warrior (Because Aang was eighty percent sure that the boy was a Kunze if the scent drifting toward him was in indication; from what Aang knew about the Fire Nation, they would die before allowing their Kunzes to leave their lands if they weren't sure they were undefeatable and insanely protected by as many personal guards and soldiers), and a stand that told Aang that the boy even when smiling kindly, he was preparing for a fight to take place.

When he called out and the boy turned to face him; Aang could feel the breath leaving his chest as those golden eyes fell on him, freezing him in place as longing slammed into him. Heart pounding in his chest, Aang could only clutch his staff tightly, trying to think of something to say without stuttering and embarrassing himself in front of the boy (Oh Sweet Merciful Lung-ta! Aang hadn't felt like this ever since he was young and embarrassed himself when Kuzon presented as a Kunze).

But then the beautiful boy called him 'The Avatar'; bringing Aang's world to a screeching halt, as terror so strong gripped him and refused to let go. Aang tried to act nonchalant, even when his insides were twisting and fear almost choked him; he asked the beautiful boy and ended up knowing his name… 'Zuko'… a name felt so foreign and yet so familiar that Aang felt like he should know him; grief engulfing him and squeezing his heart (Grief so strong that Aang wondered how he was still standing and not on his knees kowtowing to the boy and blabbering how sorry he was, even when he didn't know the beautiful Kunze and this was the first time they met).

One thing led to another, and then Katara tried to attack the Kunze, bringing horror and fear all around, and Aang he knew… he knew… what happened to those who dared to hurt a Kunze from the Fire Nation… Agni's beloveds… was whispered to him once upon a time when he visited the Fire Nation to see his friend and wasn't allowed after he presented. Aang could only think of one thing to stop this madness from escalating and affecting those around him, and that was to offer himself to stop people from becoming the target of the Fire Nation.

Aang expected many things when he sat foot on that ship; he expected to be locked in the dungeon, he expected to be shackled; become forgotten, offered as a sacrifice… anything really… what he didn't expect was to be invited for tea party… as Aang sat in the chair near the beautiful Kunze and his kind uncle, he didn't know what to do or how to act as he was offered treats and tea, and a chance to be normal and have a conversation (Even if it was for a day)… the uncle (Iroh he learned his name) reminded him so much of Monk Gyatso that it almost hurt to look at him for a prolonged period, but the older man made him laugh, he joked around, and made his nephew looked so embarrassed as he tried to hide behind his teacup… the sight made Aang laugh, but it also made him tear up, as it reminded him of his life with Monk Gyatso before…

That's when normality vanished… Aang was told that the long time had passed was a hundred years… he was told that the Fire Nation had attacked his home after the Avatar had vanished… then Aang was told that his people… his people! …Now Aang was all alone… You got what you wished for, congrats… a voice that was so similar to his and not at the same time sneered in his ear, and suddenly for the second time this day, he felt the air leaving his lungs, but this time it wasn't associated with positive emotion like when he met 'Zuko' that morning.

After that Aang did the only thing, he was good at… running away… he ran away and left the beautiful Kunze and his kind uncle; wanting this to be an elaborate joke that was told to disorient him and make him doubt himself. He met Katara and Sokka who came on Appa; he forced a smile on his face as he directed Appa to the direction of the Southern Air Temple, his heart in his throat as he tried to joke and act normal even when he felt like he was breaking on the inside.

He reached the temple, he searched high and low, and the only thing he found from the past was a lone Flying Lemur with no kin and no family left with him; it brought him nothing but pain and despair as he tried to stop himself from breaking down in front of Sokka and Katara because they didn't need to see him break down like this. Then Sokka started chasing the Flying Lemur something about roasting him, bringing nothing but fear into Aang's heart at the thought that the only normal thing that survived from his past was about to be destroyed.

So, the Flying Lemur escaped and was chased by Sokka, who was chased by Aang to try and stop him from hurting the poor creature… they scuffled, they fought, and Aang found himself falling into one of the playgrounds he used to play in with Monk Gyatso. Aang could only watch in mute horror as he saw hundreds and hundreds of armors with the Fire Nation coloring lying around; a fact that made something jam in Aang's throat as tears clouded his eyes… He was right… Aang could only feel horror as he remembered the words of the beautiful Kunze, who looked at Aang with pained eyes full of empathy and something else he didn't know how to interpret.

Aang walked through rows and rows of armor, his heart pounding loudly in his throat as he tried to find the remains of his people, wanting to at least give them a proper burial in death after he failed them in life. Aang expected to find bones scattered around, and bloody and tattered clothes from a century ago; he expected to find praying beads scattered on the ground and crushed, a massacre that would rub in his face how much of a failure he was… Aang found nothing of that sort…

Instead of bones and nightmares that would keep Aang awake for many years to come; rows of coffins made of wood greeted Aang, with the Air Nomads insignia on their lids. Aang's breath left him, and he could only stumble toward the coffins, ignoring the confusion and shocked gasps from behind him. He opened the lids, one by one, being greeted by the bones of his kins with their possessions; tears gathered in Aang's eyes, and he couldn't help but wonder who was kind-hearted enough to help his fallen kin when Aang was useless to do anything for them.

A small wooden box was found on a rock not far away, after Aang finished inspecting every coffin there was, feeling drained when he managed to identify his kin by their robes and possessions. Aang could only shake as he touched the box, removing the lid and seeing what was inside; what greeted Aang was a letter in beautiful calligraphy filled with apologies.

I apologize for what my blood had done; I apologize for there was nothing I could have done. I apologize for leaving you like this; I apologize for not performing the proper burial rites, for I do not know how Air Nomads send their dead into the afterlife. Please wait a bit more, I am sure the person you are all waiting for will come soon and help you pass into the reincarnation cycle so your souls may rest in peace.

There was no name written under the letter, but Aang didn't need to know the name, for he had an inkling of who wrote this letter; an inkling that told him the beautiful Kunze and the kind uncle from before were here once upon a time, took a look around, and decided to help his people against their Nation's will.

Aang could only sit on the floor, weeping as he clutched the letter and mouthed the word 'Thank you' over and over again, promising to return the favor a thousand times more if he ever met those two and their crew. "Aang…?" Katara's concerned voice reached him, causing Aang to let out a shuddered breath and stand up; wiping his tears, Aang gazed at the coffins, nodding his head as went to collect incense and what he needed to start the burial rites…

He had a family to say goodbye to…)…

Aang didn't know why he was even here in the first place, part of him was wondering why he didn't continue with his journey to the Northern Pole to learn Water Bending and be done with it. But looking at Appa who was too tired to continue after the many detours Aang took in his daze (Not even being conscious of where he steered Appa other than him wanting to be as far away from the Southern Air Temple As he could), Aang decided to choose this island to rest for a bit and gather their strength before they continued their journey north.

Appa was sunning himself and seeming to enjoy the trees he used as scratching posts; Momo (Their new companion from the temple) flowed around the place, picking fruit and bugs, and seemed to have the time of his life. Sokka was not that far away from where Aang was, pantless and complaining to Katara about how his pants still had a large hole in them that needed to be fixed; as for Katara, she only glared at her brother and huffed.

A large splash of water drew Aang's attention away from the bickering siblings, and Aang could only let out a soft hum when he saw Elephant Koi swimming and jumping around the place as they raced in the water. Aang smiled, getting out his marbles and unconsciously started to play with them and spin them fast in a circular motion, his eyes not leaving the Koi as part of him wondered if he should go and ride one of the fish and forget about everything.

If Aang was twelve… or really didn't have something on his mind to distract him, like now; Aang would have no doubt run to swim with the Koi, maybe ride a fish or two and surf the water using them. But really, Aang was too weary and not in the mood to move from his place, even when part of him whispered how much fun this would have been, especially now that he had companions that would enjoy such a thing no doubt being from the Water Tribes.

"Aang?" Katara's voice came from beside him, snapping Aang from his line of thinking and causing him to turn to the little girl who was looking at him with worry. "Are you alright?" Katara asked sitting beside him, her words made Aang pause and grip the marbles tightly in his right hand.

"Yeah, sorry, just thinking." Aang changed the subject with a cheerful smile as he put the marbles away, looking around trying to find Sokka only to groan when he saw the teen chasing Momo around once more and getting fruit thrown at his face. "Really? Again?" That brought a giggle from Katara who turned to see her brother get his ass kicked and his face drenched in fruit juices by a Flying Lemur who reached Aang and hid behind his shoulder.

"Aang! Give me that flying rat or so-!" And Sokka couldn't even finish as between this second and the next the three of them were attacked and incapacitated before Aang even knew what the hell was going on here (He would blame it on the grief, because ever since they left the Southern Air Temple; Aang felt like he wasn't himself for a long time now, an action that made him feel unbalanced and confused and losing his touch with the world)

They are not trying enough or don't have experience with fighting Air Benders… Aang hummed to himself when he finally got out of the ropes that were binding him, acting like he was still tied up as he gazed at the women (Warriors) who managed to catch the three of them and bring them to their village. Anger and hate shone in their eyes as they claimed that Aang and his companions were Fire Nation spies. One thing led to another, and after a lot of back and forth and Aang showing them that he was an Air Bender, and the Avatar; the three of them were finally free and considered honored guests and were allowed to roam around the village as they liked.

Sokka being Sokka, didn't take long to offend the Kyoshi Warriors, which ended up with him eating dirt as their Leader (Suki her name) took it upon herself to teach Sokka how to be respectful of women and Kunzes, going as far as humiliating Sokka by forcing him to wear skirts and parade around if he wanted to be taught how to be a warrior. Katara was acting strange every time she was near Aang (Though, Aang believed it was because of the girls that kept on following him around even when he tried to escape them… so creepy how they would even try to follow him to the bathroom) either acting hot by screaming at the girls to scram, or giving Aang the cold shoulder and refusing to talk with him or even look at him… girls are so strange…

Aang though… he spent his time running away from the girls (And sometimes boys) who cornered him; some hadn't presented and would try to drag him to play with them and try to force him to do tricks (Which he declined politely because he really needed some peace and quiet to meditate and think, and not play a babysitter when his own mind was scrambling around in his head). Some are presented Kunze or Zhongyong who tried to flirt with him, which was so embarrassing and not necessary at all (The number of times he ran to the dojo for help only to be the witness of Suki thrashing Sokka around was countless, but at least the Kyoshi Warrior understood his dilemma and snapped at everyone to back away). They even made Sokka and Katara look at him strangely (Katara with annoyance, and Sokka always complained and then acted jealous when the girls ignored him and swarmed Aang)… not a fun trip, at all… at least Momo and Appa seemed to have the time for their life with all the petting and scratching they got from the people, so he guessed this was a plus.

Aang wondered to himself if they should leave now, or wait a few more days before they departed to continue their journey to the Northern Pole. Gazing at Sokka who let out a whine as Suki thrashed him and threw him around the place… Maybe a few more days wouldn't hurt… Aang thought as he gave his friend an encouraging smile, and a thump up.

"Suki! Suki!" Another Kyoshi Warrior came running into the dojo, panting and gasping with a huge grin taking over her face, making Suki stop playing with Sokka and turn to her fellow warrior with a confused look. "Zuko is here!" The girl, Miko, as Aang remembered, jumped around, with a happy laugh.

"Zuko?" Suki grinned, and the warriors behind her started to whisper excitedly as everyone scrambled around to stand up and rush outside the dojo. "Finally! I thought that Fancy Fingers forgot about us or something!" Suki laughed, running behind her friends, leaving Aang and Sokka behind.

Aang who sat frozen when he heard this news, finally stood up, following behind the Kyoshi Warriors and ignoring Sokka who pounced from his place on the floor and ran after Suki with a pout on his face. Aang's heart pounded in his chest as he reached the shore, his hands feeling sweaty as he saw a familiar ship and a familiar Kunze and his kind uncle descending the ramp, only to be jumped by Suki and the Kyoshi Warriors who hugged him and joked and pushed him around.

"Aang! Let's go, the Fire Nation is here!" That was Katara who finally reached him and Sokka, horror painted her face as her eyes took in the Fire Nation ship, clutching Sokka's sleeves as she hid behind her brother. Aang didn't pay attention to the girl, as much as he would have liked to do, not when his heart was pounding so loudly and blood rushed through his ears.

"You Fancy Fingers! What brings you to this neck of the wood after all this time?" Suki's boisterous laugh was heard, and Aang snapped out of his daze and he shook Katara's hands off, walking around the people and trying to get closer to the Kunze… he needed to thank him… he needed to pay respect to the kind Kunze who helped his kin when he didn't have to.

"…Uncle wanted to come and try the new blend of tea everyone was talking about… that, and Gasbagging us with Chief Oyaji over a Pai Sho game." Aang managed to hear when he got closer, his heart pounding at the amusement and laugh he heard in the Kunze's voice. Laughter was heard after that comment, followed by a mock indignant 'Nephew!' from the older Qianyuan who finally started to pay attention after greeting the leader of the village.

Time seemed to slow down when Aang and the Kunze's eyes met; his breath hitched and he could only grip his staff tightly when the Kunze gave him a relieved smile when he noticed him. "Zuko…" Aang managed to calm himself to call for the boy, almost patting himself on the shoulder when his voice didn't crack or break.

Zuko's smile widened even more if that was possible, making Aang's heart skip a beat (Or two). "Aang…" Zuko's face lit up. Suki though, looked between Aang and Zuko a few times before grinning like a cat and turning to whisper in her friends' ears making the girls surrounding her, shriek and laugh like their lives depended on it. Zuko who heard what they said, let out an annoyed sigh and snipped something toward the women, causing them to laugh even harder than they did before…

Suddenly, Aang didn't mind staying here for a bit longer…

So, what do you think?

Yes, Zuko and Aang finally met!

Poor Aang he really needed a hug, but at least our (Not yet) happy sunshine seemed to have fallen in love on the first sight!

Read and Review

And tell me what you think…

Nazaki-Sama