Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

He thought he was imagining things when he caught a glimpse of a tiny girl dressed in blue scurrying through the garden.

And he thought he was dreaming when he saw the same tiny girl standing on the dresser beside his bed.

The burn salve and pain killers were making him delirious.

'She wasn't really there.' Zuko thought as he continued to stare into her wide blue eyes.

The girl stood there like a deer in headlights, shock written all over her. Zuko watched as she seemed to snap out of a trance then slowly eased herself behind the tissue paper that stuck straight out of the Kleenex box. Zuko could just make out her figure through the paper as she slipped off the box. He suddenly heard a distinct 'thump'.

"Hey." Zuko said softly, without thinking. "I saw you earlier today. In the garden."

The girl paused and tilted her head towards him.

"My mother used tell me stories about little people who lived in the walls. Were they about you?" Zuko rambled.

The girl remained still, barely visible in the dark room. She suddenly took off, disappearing completely.

"Wait!" Zuko sat up quickly and leaned over the dresser. He didn't mean to scare her away.

"Stupid!" he berated himself, flopping back onto the bed. Why was he so dumb?

By the time morning came, Zuko almost convinced himself it was all a dream. Until he saw a single cube of sugar resting on the floor beside his dresser. Zuko gingerly picked it up and rolled it around in fingers. He was jolted out of his thoughts as Uncle came into the room going on about proverbs as he changed Zuko's bandages. Zuko hid the sugar cube in his pocket as the cogs turned in his brain.

Uncle left for a grocery run in town shortly after, leaving Zuko to his own devices. Zuko tore off a small strip of paper to leave a note for the tiny visitor. After pondering it for a bit, he simply wrote 'You left this', then stuck the note and sugar cube in the air vent under his bedroom window.

'This is crazy.' Zuko thought as he went back inside when it started to drizzle. It will never work.

Days went by without another sighting of the tiny girl. Zuko was disappointed. He had hoped to see her again. It was lonely in the cottage even with Uncle and the stray cat that lingered around the garden. Zuko wanted someone to talk to who wouldn't give him confusing advice or meow deadpanly at him.

He had almost abandoned the idea when he heard a very quiet thump. Zuko looked up from his book and turned his head since the sound came from his left side. A half-eaten sugar cube rested on the floor underneath his bedroom window. He could make out the figure of a young woman, concealed behind a leaf this time. She paused for a moment then turned to leave again.

"No, wait. Don't go." Zuko called out. "Please come out. I promise I won't hurt you."

"I can't." the girl's voice ranged out clear and concise. "Humans are dangerous. If we are seen, then we have to move."

Zuko pondered the new information for a moment. He didn't want to drive the girl and her family away from their home. He knew the feeling all too well.

"I don't want to be the reason you have to move away."

"Well, it may be too late for that." her tone was sharp and almost biting. Zuko's guilt only increased. Why was he always ruining things for people?

"Before you go, can you tell me your name?" The girl only stood there silently. "Mine's is Zuko. I live with my Uncle now."

"What happened to your face?"

Zuko was taken aback. He stammered a bit before claiming it was an accident.

"An accident?" The girl sound unconvinced.

"Yeah... I'm sorry for bothering you. I'll leave you alone from now on."

Zuko looked down at his book, heart sinking. He should have known better.

"Katara."

"What?"

"My name is Katara." she said louder, standing up straight. "And whoever hurt you Zuko, is not worth the time of day."

Zuko stared awestruck at her, lost for words.

"I- "

He was interrupted by a large crow crashing into the window and entangling itself it the screen. Zuko leapt off the bed, head spinning from getting up too quickly. He had to reach Katara before the crow hurt her! Zuko used one hand to shove the crow and he stuck the other out near the leaf Katara was standing behind. Panic courses through as he heard Katara scream. Zuko finally felt a weight fall softly into his palm. He gently curled his fingers and eased his hand back inside, careful to avoid the crow.

Uncle arrive to his room to see what the commotion was about. He helped Zuko free the crow and closed the window. Zuko kept his hand behind his back as he sat back on the bed and entertained Uncle's questions. After Uncle finally left, Zuko hesitantly brought his hand forward, only to find an empty nest of leaves.

Katara had left.

Chapter Text

Humans were dangerous.

The reason her kind had to stay hidden and move only in the shadows. That’s what Katara had been taught her whole life.

But she just couldn’t understand why this human, Zuko he called himself, saved her. He was even willing to leave her alone after she made her discomfort clear. It made no sense.

Katara sighed wearily as she made her way through the tunnel inside the walls. She wanted to stay and talk to him more but the adult human came and she didn’t want to risk being seen by him also.

A light shone in her face snapping her out of her thoughts. Katara swore.

“Katara.” Hakoda said sternly.

“I just returned the sugar cube. That’s all. I wasn’t seen.”

“That’s not the point. You know you’re not supposed to be here alone. And I thought I told you to leave the sugar cube alone.”

Katara sighed. “I know Dad. I’m sorry.”

Hakoda shook his head disappointedly as he walked back down the tunnel. Katara wordlessly followed.

“Are you sure you weren’t seen by anyone?”

Katara thought about Zuko’s bandaged face covering his left side and his gentle hands as he hid her behind his back.

“Yes. I’m sure.”

~*~

It had been a week since she was grounded. Katara sighed for the hundredth time as she hung the clothes up to dry by the air vent under the human’s house. Her mind drifted back to when she first saw Zuko arrive. At first, she was annoyed because he was always in the backyard garden reading which meant she couldn’t explore there anymore. But the more she watched him, the more curious she became of him. He had one-sided conversations with Momo and stared at the sky often.

Katara just chalked it up to him being spacy and convinced her dad to let her do her first borrowing mission to his room. But after Zuko first spotted her on the nightstand then Dad caught her in the tunnels alone, Katara was sure her borrowing days were over.

A massive shadow past by the air vent. Abandoning the laundry, Katara scaled the bricks stacked against the walls and peaked out. She saw Zuko crossing the garden with a book in hand. He had not been out all week either.

Katara quickly hung the remaining clothes then ran back inside their tiny house. She stuck her head in the garage and saw Sokka fixing some of the borrowing gear. There would be no snapping him out of the zone anytime soon. And with Dad out hunting, it was the perfect opportunity to sneak out.

Without wasting a second, Katara went to her room and threw on her blue dress and brown knee-high boots. She then tied her braid with her favorite ribbon and grabbed her bag and pincushion needle before slipping out her window. The trek was long but Katara was overjoyed to be in the garden again. She missed the sun shining down on her through the leaves and the wind tussling her hair.

Once she was close enough, Katara climbed up a flower stem and peered through the petals. She saw Zuko laying against a rock reading with Momo curled up on his chest. Momo lifted his head and sniffed the air before looking right at her and meowed. Katara held a finger to her mouth, but the cat ignored her as he leapt off Zuko’s chest and trotted over.

“Momo go away!” Katara hissed as the cat nestled her with his nose and purred noisily.

“Katara?” Zuko sat up and looked around. “Is that you?”

Katara shoved Momo’s nose away with her foot and pulled the petals over her.

“Yes! Please don’t turn around!”

“Sorry.” Zuko shifted his gaze up towards the clouds. “I thought you moved away.”

“I just got grounded.”

“Was it because of me?”

“No. It was my fault.”

Zuko’s shoulders shag with relief. “I was worried I got you in trouble.”

“Oh uh…” Katara cleared her throat. “T-Thank you for saving me earlier.”

“I’m just glad you’re okay.”

Katara brushed the petals aside to get a better look. Zuko sat with his back facing her still gazing at the sky. He had his right ear tilted towards her as he stroked Momo who grew bored and went back to nestle up against him. Katara stared at him for a moment before speaking again.

“Why haven’t you been in the garden lately?”

Zuko rubbed his neck sheepishly. “I wanted to give you some space.”

“That’s… really thoughtful of you.” Katara smiled. She glanced at the sun noting its position. “I have to go now. See you around Zuko.”

“Goodbye Katara. It was nice to talk to you again.”

“Yeah. You too.”

Katara slipped down the flower and disappeared into the brush. Her mind replayed their conversation over and over.

Humans were dangerous.

But maybe this one wasn’t.

Chapter Text

“I’m heading out.” Zuko grabbed his book from kitchen island. “And yes, I put on sunscreen.”

“Good.” Iroh sighed. “I don’t want to nag but your skin is still quite sensitive. I just worry.”

Zuko glanced away. “I know Uncle.”

“You certainly enjoy that old garden, don’t you?” Iroh smiled as he sipped his tea. “I guess jungle is really more of the right word. One of these days we ought to fix it up. Do some weeding and mowing-“

“It’s fine the way it is!!!”

Iroh blinked surprised. It was the first time Zuko had a burst of emotion since arriving to the cottage. “Of course, Nephew. I suppose there is a distinct natural beauty to it. Besides, we wouldn’t want to disturb our dear feline friend’s hunting grounds.”

“Uh right… Because we don’t want to disturb Momo.”

“Momo? What a lovely name.”

Zuko cleared his throat and left as Iroh told him to come inside by lunch. He crossed the stone path into the garden turned overgrown field blossoming with wildflowers. Zuko sighed again. That was close. But he couldn’t let Uncle tear up the garden knowing Katara and her family live there. The thought of anything bad happening to her made him feel sick.

He shortly reached the flat rock by the edge of the woods and laid down. The overhanging trees provided much needed coverage from the summer sun. Everything was so peaceful. Zuko opened his book and let himself get lost among the pages.

“What are you reading?”

A smile tugged at Zuko’s lips.

She came back.

“Love Amongst the Dragons.” He answered without looking up.

“Dragons?”

“Mythical giant lizards that fly and breathe fire. In the book, they rule over the humans until the Dragon Emperor is transformed into a human and falls in love with one. The symbolism is genius and there are so many great plot twists.”

Zuko bit his lip to stop his ramble. Katara’s visits were never long and he didn’t want to talk her ear off.

“It sounds amazing.” Katara said earnestly. “What else happens?”

Surprise flashed across Zuko’s face. She was actually interested?

“I could read it to you, if you like.”

“Really?! Oh but I don’t want to lose you place.”

“It’s no problem.” Zuko said as he flipped to the beginning. “I’ve read this story a hundred times already. I don’t mind starting over.”

Time passed faster than either one of them expected. Just as Zuko was getting to the climatic battle between the Dragon Emperor and the Blue Spirit, Iroh was calling him inside.

“Nooo! Right at the good part!” Katara whined playfully. “Is Savita going to escape the enteral mist with the golden flower in time? How is the Dragon Emperor going to defeat the Blue Spirit without his powers?”

“No spoilers!” Zuko smirked.

“Please Zuko.”

Zuko press the book against his forehead before caving in.

“Okay so there’s actually a secret tunnel through the mountains that leads to-“

“ZUKO!!!”

Katara groaned dramatically. “Your dad has the worst timing.”

Zuko’s chest tightened as he subconsciously brushed his still bandaged eye.

“He’s not my father.” he muttered bitterly.

“O-Oh. Sorry. I didn’t mean-“

“No it’s just…” Zuko pinched the bridge of his nose. “Can you come back tomorrow? I’ll finish the story then.”

“I can return in three days. I’m still technically grounded and it’s a long walk here.” Katara let out a breathy laugh. “And if you ever want to talk about… anything…”

Zuko nodded. “Yeah thanks.”

“Bye Zuko.”

Zuko bided her goodbye and waited a moment before making his way back to the cottage. He was angry at himself for ruining the mood but there was still a small spark of hope knowing Katara would return soon.

Three days wasn't that long.

~*~

“Twice in one week? Really?! I know you like frolicking in the back field but you were gone too long.”

“Frolicking?” Katara scrunched up her face as she quietly closed her bedroom window after slipping in. Sokka caught her sneaking back in after the first trip and agreed to keep quiet since he knew how unbearable it was to stay trapped in the house all day.

“You know what I mean.” Sokka crossed his arms and leaned against the wall. “Dad’s getting suspicious.”

“I know. I’m gonna lay low for a bit.”

She untied her hair ribbon then side eyed Sokka silently asking what he was still doing in her room. Sokka raised his brow. Katara sighed. There was no point of keeping secrets from him.

“I visited him today.”

“The bean?”

“Human. They’re called humans not 'beans' and yes. We talked in the garden for a bit.”

“Are you sure about this?”

“Yes I am.” Katara said firmly and closed her drawer harder than she meant.

Sokka groaned and shook his head. “Okay. I trust you. But if he tries anything, I’ll rip his fingernails off!”

Katara rolled her eyes but hugged her brother regardless.

“Thanks Sokka.”

Hakoda called his children to the kitchen for dinner. Despite the successful hunt and table full of fresh grasshopper meat and hot soup, Hakoda had a weary expression. Katara’s stomach knotted.

“What’s wrong Dad?”

Hakoda exhaled slowly. “I’ve been out scouting and found a creek flowing deeper into the forest. The water was faster than I predicted which makes traveling long distances a lot faster.”

Sokka paused from eating and exchanged a concerned look with Katara. Hakoda nodded confirming their suspicion.

“We’re moving.”

Chapter Text

“What did I tell you about staying out in the sun too long?” Iroh scolded as he unwrapped the bandages.

Zuko scoffed. “Uncle I’m fine.”

“If a fish is kind to the water, the water will be kind to the fish.”

Zuko squinted is eyes in confusion. “What do fish have to do with anything?!”

“It means if you want your body to work then you must take care of it.”

Iroh tilted Zuko’s chin to get a better look at the wound. The skin was a deeper shade of red with more blisters forming. Iroh began to worry that the ointment emergency services gave him was not enough for long term healing. Regardless, Iroh applied some more and rewrapped the wound with fresh bandages.

“Stay inside for a couple of days.”

“It’s worst, isn’t it?” Zuko asked bitterly.

“Healing takes time, Nephew. Time and patience.” Iroh handed Zuko a fresh cup of chamomile tea. “And calming tea of course!”

Zuko quietly sipped the tea. He knew it was worse than Iroh was letting on. Painkillers only did but so much. It’s been a month since… what happened. The burn should have been healed by now but since they were both cut off, Iroh didn’t have enough money or insurance for proper medical treatment or reconstruction surgery. Not that Zuko deserved any of that.

Completely drained, Zuko returned the half empty cup and told Iroh he was going to his room to lay down.

Iroh sighed wearily wishing he could do more for his nephew. There has to be another way. He picked up the newspaper he brought at the grocery store and skimmed through it hoping for answers. There was an ad for Hama’s Healing Herbs.

Iroh dialed the number praying this would work.

~*~

“What do you mean we’re moving?!” Katara slammed her hands on the table and stood. “This is our home! This is where Mom grew up! Where we grew up! We just can’t leave!!!”

“It’s for our own protection. The house is old and it’s only a matter of time before the humans renovate it especially now there’s more of them. Which means our chances of being seen and captured are higher.”

“They’re not going to hurt us!”

Hakoda shook his head. “I’m not taking that chance.”

“But-“

“I said no Katara!”

Katara sunk down to her seat as her cheeks heated up. Hakoda rarely ever raised his voice at them. She blinked away the tears refusing to break down at the dinner table.

“Katara. Sokka.” Hakoda said gentler. “You two are my world. I can’t bear to imagine anything happening to you. Especially after Kya died.”

This time tears escaped Katara’s eyes.

“We know Dad.” Sokka answered solemnly for both of them. “When are we moving?”

“By the end of summer but I'm aiming for sooner. We need to get settle in before winter.”

Katara’s chest tighten. The end of summer was only a month away.

“Permission to be excused?” she muttered.

Hakoda nodded grimly. “Yes.”

Katara retreated to her room not wanting to hear the moving plans. Once she closed the door, the dam broke. Katara slid to the floor and pulled her knees against her chest. She knew Dad meant well but it still hurt. This place was all she’d known. Leaving was like leaving a part of her and all the memories of her mother.

Before Katara realized what she was doing, she packed her bag and tied her hair back. She threw her blanket over some pillows then sneaked out the window.

~*~

It was late at night by the time Katara reached Zuko’s room. She removed the outlet covering and silently slipped onto the dresser. Katara swallowed. Though it was her second time, she was still nervous. Being in the garden was one thing, but actually entering the human house was another matter.

Everything was so big.

Katara made her way pass the clutter and peer from behind the tissue box at a sleeping Zuko. It’s been a while since she was this close, even then she didn’t get a good look. In the faint moonlight, she could just make him out. Katara stared at him; eyes tracing the outline of his face and bare chest slowly rising and falling.

It was mesmerizing.

Katara slapped her burning cheeks. She had to stay focus. Dad said they were leaving by the end of summer, but it could be at any time. She couldn’t wait three days to tell Zuko at their meet up.

“Zuko!” Katara whispered shouted then again louder when he didn’t respond. “Zuko wake up!!!”

She was basically yelling at this point. Still nothing. Katara scaled the nearby lamp and flipped on the switch. She hissed as the room was suddenly filled with bright light. Zuko moaned quietly.

“Zuko?” Katara ran back to the edge of the dresser. “It’s me, Katara-“

She stopped short when she got a clear view of Zuko in the light. He was sickly pale and covered in sweat.

She dropped onto the pillow and trudge through the sinking fabric. Up close, Katara could feel his shivering and hot rapid breath. There was also a foul odor from the yellow liquid just visible under the white bandages. Katara’s heart sped up.

What should she do? What could she do?! Treating the infection herself was out of the question. She’d had to get the adult human attention.

Katara rested her tiny hand against his cheek.

“I’m going to get help. Hang in there, okay?”

Zuko moaned softly again. Katara used her grappling hook to climb back onto the dresser and crawled back through the outlet opening. She sprinted through the tunnels following Sokka’s map she’d swiped earlier. Thankfully the master bedroom was down the hall.

Inside, the adult human slept soundly in the massive bed. His loud snores shook Katara to her bones. Waking him without being seen was going to be difficult. Katara scanned over the dresser looking for something she could use before she spotted a porcelain tea set with strange creatures painted on them.

“Dragons.” Katara whispered, remembering Zuko’s story. So that’s what they looked like.

Katara tightened her hair ribbon then began pushing a teacup that was as tall as her. With one last shove, she knocked it off the edge of the dresser. It hit the floor and shattered with a loud crash. The snoring stopped abruptly as the adult human jolted up. Katara hurriedly shuffled back, panic coursing through her as she dove behind the bonsai tree. The human turned on the lamp and tsked when he saw the teacup remains.

“Now how did you fall?” he groaned as he bent down to pick up the shards. “I hope we don’t have mice.”

Katara covered her mouth.

The human dumped the shards into a bin by the open door then peered out noticing Zuko’s lamp light.

“What is he still doing up?” he wondered out loud. “Ah, I’d better not bother him at this hour.”

Katara swore under her breath. She waited until the human laid back down before pushing off another teacup. The human sat up and turned on the lamp. He brushed his beard thoughtfully as he eyed the second destroyed cup.

“Alright. I’ll go check on him.” He sighed while cleaning up the shards. “But please, these are antique.”

Katara removed her hand from her mouth as the human left. Who was he talking to? Did he know she was here? She didn’t have time to think about that now. Katara slipped back into the tunnels and rushed to Zuko’s room.

She creaked open the outlet covering and saw the adult human treating Zuko while speaking to him in hush concerned tones. Katara's heart ached but there was nothing else she could do. She quietly replaced the covering and walked back home.

Zuko was going to be okay.

He just had to be.

Chapter Text

Zuko groggily walked to the kitchen to get something to eat. He didn’t remember much of what happen recently. Apparently, his wound became infected, and Uncle called over an herbalist to help treat it. Whatever she did worked. The infection was gone, and the blisters were starting to heal. Everything was still fuzzy though.

“Oh Nephew, so glad you can join us.” Iroh beamed. “This is Ms. Hama, the healer who treated your infection.”

“Good to see you up and about, Zuko.” Hama smiled.

“Oh uh…” Zuko bowed. “Thank you for your help.”

Hama laughed. “What a polite boy.”

“Only when he wants to be.” Iroh teased.

“Uncle! ” Zuko hissed causing both adults to laugh.

Zuko rolled his eyes before joining them at the table and helping himself to the roasted fish and rice.

“My, what a lovely tea set collection you have. What’s the story behind these?” Hama nodded towards an emerald teapot on the window seal resting beside a pile of shards.

Iroh chuckled. “They sent me a message.”

Hama raised her brow. “A message?”

“The night Zuko’s infection spiked, I was awoken by both teacups falling to the ground one after another.”

“Vermin?”

“All I know is if they didn’t wake me, Zuko would have suffer through that fever all night long.” Iroh took a sip from his tea. “Tell me, Hama, have you heard of the stories of little people called borrowers living in the walls.”

Zuko choked on his tea.

“Nephew, are you alright?” Iroh asked worriedly.

“…W-Wrong pipe…” Zuko wiped his mouth as he tried to regain his composer.

He knew good and well it was Katara not some mice. But why would she go through all that trouble to help him?

“Little people living in the walls? I can’t say I’ve heard of that one.” Hama hummed.

Iroh nodded. “It was quite popular in my day. They sneaked in at night to borrow small objects like paperclips and bits of food. Sometimes they’d return missing items or fix broken things.”

Hama raised her brow. “So they’re thieves?”

“They’re not thieves!” Zuko snapped.

“Do they return any of these items or scraps of food?” Hama scoffed.

“No but-“

“Then how are they any different from vermin?”

“It’s a lot more fun to imagine tiny people running around than mice.” Iroh intervened.

“The results are the same.” Hama tsked. “Please excuse my bluntness. I just don’t like pests.”

Zuko angrily picked at his food having lost his appetite. Katara wasn't vermin or pest. She was the nicest person Zuko's ever met! Even if Hama didn't believe borrowers exist, she still had no right to call Katara those harsh names.

Iroh, being the ever diligent host, steered the conversation in a different direction and served more tea. Soon Hama took her leave, promising to stop by in a couple of days to check on Zuko’s wound. After thanking her again, Zuko tried to retreat to his room, but Iroh called him back downstairs to help him with the dishes by using the old man with a bad back card.

“I was not aware you had such an affection for the borrower stories.”

Zuko frown as he scrubbed a plate harder than needed while ignoring deep flush growing on his cheeks.

“Mom used to tell me about them.” He muttered.

“I see.” Iroh got out of his seat with a groan and headed towards the stairs. “I want to show you something.”

Zuko tossed the dishrag into the sink before following his uncle. Iroh rested his hand on the elegant dollhouse on the desk nestled between a porcelain doll as tall as the house itself and an old jewelry box.

“Mom’s dollhouse?” Zuko questioned. He knew he was staying in his mother’s childhood room but didn’t understand why Iroh was singling out this one toy.

“Not just a dollhouse, Zuko." Iroh opened the dollhouse’s wall revealing a beautifully furnished inside completed with Victorian style decorations. "A home."

Zuko gasped. “Is this where they live?”

“That was the plan. Your mother wanted to provide a home for them, so your great grandfather Roku had this built. But they never came.” Iroh gently closed the dollhouse. “I think they were just shy.”

Zuko hummed in response as his brain replayed the first conversation he had with Katara about humans being dangerous.

Iroh patted his shoulder.

“You catch more flies with honey than vinegar.”

Zuko grunted. He didn’t want to capture Katara. He just enjoyed her company and wanted to keep her safe.

Iroh shook his head and chuckled.

“Come Nephew. Those dishes aren’t going to finish themselves.”

~*~

“Are you sure about this, Dad?” Katara asked while doublechecking his supply bag and securing his knives. “You said you already found the river.”

“Yes, but I have to know where we’re going, Snow Blossom. We don’t want to wander in the forest for months on end.”

“I suppose not.” Katara sighed. She secretly hoped Dad wouldn’t find anything and the move would be canceled but she still worried for him. “Just be careful.”

“I will.” Hakoda kissed her forehead.

“Dad wait!” Sokka came running in carrying more supplies. “I’d upgraded your telescope. You’ll be able to see twice as far now!”

Hakoda tested it out and whistled. “This is amazing Sokka! I see you have quite the knack for these.”

Katara rolled her eyes as Sokka and Hakoda busted out laughing. Spirits, their jokes were so corny.

“Sokka, Dad’s not going to need all that stuff.” Katara said glaring the overflowing box of gear.

“Hey this is all very important.”

Katara pulled out an umbrella made of twigs and leaves that popped open on contact. She raised her brow at Sokka.

“It might rain!” He shot back.

“Katara’s right. I need to pack light.” Hakoda waved the telescope. “I will be taking this though.”

Sokka grinned. “Good eye, Dad.”

Katara groaned again causing Hakoda to chuckle. The siblings then walked Hakoda to the air vent where he gave the final instructions.

“None of you are to go inside the human house, understand?”

Katara felt anger and guilt rise up knowing he was talking directly to her, but she nodded regardless.

“That said,” Hakoda handed his bow and arrows to Sokka. “You’ll still need to hunt.”

“You’re giving me your bow?” Sokka gapped at him.

Hakoda nodded firmly. “It’s time.”

Sokka reverently accepted the weapons and strapped them on.

“I won’t let you down.”

Hakoda gave him a proud smile. “I know you won’t.”

Katara told him to be careful again and hugged Hakoda with Sokka joining.

“I love you both. Look after each other.” Hakoda held his children closer. He desperately didn’t want to leave them even if it was only for a week at most. But this was the only way to ensure their safety. “I’ll be back soon.”

~*~

Iroh could scarcely believe his ears. He hung up the phone in a daze and was about to pour himself another cup of tea when there was a knock at the door. Iroh opened it revealing Hama with more herbal medicine.

“Good afternoon Iroh.” Hama frown when she noticed his expression. “What’s the matter? Did your nephew’s wound take a turn for the worst?”

“No it’s not that.” Iroh let her inside then softly close the door behind him. “I just receive a call from my lawyer. My father’s will has been uncovered. He left me an inheritance.”

“That’s wonderful news. Then what’s the problem?”

“I need to leave for Caldera immediately. The trip would take a couple of days but I don’t want to leave Zuko alone for that time.”

“Why don’t you take him with you?”

Iroh shook his head. The will had to be read in front of the receivers which meant Ozai would be there also. Iroh already had a hard time anticipating seeing Ozai after what he did to Zuko. He can't imagine how Zuko would feel if he had to face his father again so soon.

“Well you need the money, don’t you? The infection is gone but Zuko still needs reconstruction surgery and possibly hearing aids.” Iroh hummed considering her words. Hama sat the jars down. “How about I keep an eye on Zuko while you’re gone. Check in time to time and see how he’s doing.”

“I don’t want to impose.”

“I’ll be happy to.”

Iroh let out a relieved sigh. “You’re a life saver Hama. I promise to repay you.”

As he left to retrieve the tea and call Zuko downstairs, Hama eyed the broken teacup sards by the emerald teapot. She was glad to do Iroh the favor since he was good company, but the condition of the cottage irked her.

The lawn was overgrown, house cluttered, and there were little creatures running around everywhere. It desperately needed a woman's touch but she needed to be discreet. Hama decided that while checking in on Zuko, she would take care of the vermin problem as well.

Chapter Text

The charred skin folded in on itself as it covered most of his left eye and shrunken ear. It was rough like sandpaper and a deep angry screaming red. Zuko held his hand over his wound now turned scar and stared his unblemished reflection.

For a split second, the image shifted into his father glaring at him. Zuko flinched hard knocking over the soap and candle holders. He angrily turned away unable to look at himself any longer.

How disgraceful.

Zuko stormed out the bathroom to his room and grabbed his Love Amongst the Dragons book. Iroh told him to remain inside for precaution, but if he stayed in any longer, he was going to implode! Zuko forced himself to slow down as he walked past the kitchen where Hama was scrubbing away the built up grime. The old herbalist always found an excuse to stay longer and longer.

“Going somewhere?” Hama asked without turning around.

Zuko flinched again but held his ground. “Just to the garden.”

"You mean that jungle behind the house?" Hama asked while straightening up. Zuko braced himself for a scolding, but she just turned around and smiled at him. “Have fun.”

"...Okay."

"Oh and Zuko. Do take care to not let any of the little critters follow you back inside."

Zuko grunted and walked out the door without responding.

His tension lessened some when he reached his reading rock by the edge of the forest. Zuko laid down and deeply inhaled the faint wildflower scent, then opened his book. It was right where he left off when he was reading to Katara. Zuko numbly stared at the pages letting his thoughts spiral. A soft meow caught his attention. Zuko prompted himself up with his arm and saw the stray cat gazing at him with worried eyes.

“Hey Momo.” Zuko scratched his chin causing the cat to let out a low purr. “No Katara with you today?”

“I’m here Zuko.” Katara called out from her perched spot on a nearby flower. “I hitched a ride on Momo.”

“I’m glad you came.” Zuko smiled softly. He returned to the book as Momo curled up on the sunny side of the rock. "Now where were we? Ah, yes. The pit of despair."

“Are you alright?” Katara frowned noticing his low mood. She tilted her head to get a better look at Zuko. Her stomach knotted when she saw him covering the left side of his face. “Your infection.”

“Gone. Thanks to you getting my uncle in time. He told me about waking up to his teacups mysteriously falling in the middle of the night.”

"Yeah sorry about that." Katara brushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear. Zuko's uncle did sound rather disappointed about the cups.

"Don't worry about it. Uncle has already started joking about it."

“Does it still hurt?”

“No. There's huge scar though. A reminder.” Zuko whispered the last part bitterly.

Katara swallowed hard. “Let me see.”

“I…I don’t want to scare you.”

“Just because I’m only a couple of inches tall doesn’t mean I’m easily spooked.”

“I know it's just that scars are disgraceful, especially large visible ones. A sign to others that I am weak and not to be trusted.”

"...Who told you that?"

"It doesn't matter." Zuko muttered bitterly. "What's done is done. There's no going back."

Katara’s heart lurched. She was sure the monster who did that to him filled his head with those horrible thoughts. Katara climbed onto the rock and asked him to turn around. Zuko did, looking far pass her, before slowly lowing his gaze. His good eye widened, and mouth opened slightly. He had only caught brief glimpses of Katara before. She squared her shoulders as she looked up at him with deep blue eyes, now full of compassion and determination.

“I trust you, Zuko.”

"...Why?"

"Because I just do, okay!" Katara crossed her arms, unwilling to admit how brash her decision was. "You've been nothing but kind to me since we met. And I don't want you beating yourself over something some prick with a stick up his butt told you."

Zuko blinked in surprise. "It was my father."

"I stand by what I said."

Zuko exhaled through his nose feeling a smirk tugging at his lips. He carefully laid back down to be at eye level with Katara, not missing the light flush that crossed her cheeks. She was so beautiful. And incredibly brave. Zuko knew what a big risk she was taking by revealing herself. He removed his hand exposing the angry red scar.

Katara sat on her knees observing him intensely. Zuko's eyes were warm like marigolds except the left one which was faded and milky. She had seen and treated burns before but nothing this severe. Deep dread set in her stomach.

"Did your father really do this?" she asked quietly.

Zuko suddenly looked very distanced.

"My father is very strict. He wants things just so but I couldn't perform as well as my sister. I was never good enough for him. And after my mom...went missing." Zuko paused and swallowed hard.

Katara held her breath waiting for him to continue.

"Things went downhill quickly. One day I got really frustrated and talked back to him. And well... he got really mad at me... so..."

"Zuko..." Katara looked at him in horror. She talked back to her dad all the time, but Hakoda never even consider raising a finger towards her. "I'm so sorry."

"I should have kept my mouth shut."

"No. He shouldn't have touched you! That was cruel and wrong!"

Zuko shifted his gaze back towards her, eyes filled with unshed tears. He wanted to believe her, but it was hard.

Katara extended her arm. "Can I?"

He closed his eyes and relaxed his muscles. Katara gently traced the scar's ridged outline taking in every crest and crevice.

"It's not your fault." Katara rested her head against his cheek while keeping her hand on the scar.

Zuko heard faint sniffles and realized she was crying. A sharp pain shot through him causing him to feel extremely guilty.

"Katara..."

He gently cupped his hand around her as tears finally escaped his eyes.

They stayed like that for a long while.

Chapter Text

“I think you should stop visiting that bean.”

Katara nearly dropped the dish she was scrubbing. “What?”

Sokka didn’t look up as he continued to board the window shut.

“The storm won’t last that long.”

“I’m not talking about the weather.” Sokka said solemnly. “Something’s different.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I saw traps while hunting today. Lots of them. If they’re outside, it means there’s even more inside the bean’s house.” Sokka looked her with a harden expression. “They’re hunting us.”

Katara gripped the edge of the sink. “They’re hunting bugs and small pests. “

“Isn’t what we are to them?! This is why the humans are dangerous!”

“Zuko or his uncle would never-“

“You trust them too much. What about that old lady whose been hanging around for days, uh? Are you going to vouch for her too?”

“You’re being paranoid! We’re fine. Everything’s fine!”

“Then why did you come back so upset the other day?”

“Sokka-“

“Why are there traps and cages everywhere?”

“That’s enough!”

“And why isn’t Dad back yet?!”

The question hung heavily in the air. Sokka angrily turned away.

“He’s supposed to be back by now. What if something happened?”

Katara swallowed thickly. “It’s not the end of summer yet. Dad will come back for us. He promised.”

“He also made us promise to look after each other.” Sokka looked back at her, silently pleading with his eyes.

“And we will.”

Katara dried her hands then pulled her brother into a hug. Sokka awkwardly patted her on the back. She pretended to not hear the faint sniffling.

“Maybe I’m being a bit paranoid.”

“A bit?” Katara teased lightly as she pulled away. Sokka pouted. “The rain won’t last long. We’ll make it until then.”

But the storm did last. For three straight days. It had not rained that much in a while. The siblings had to dig a canal to reroute the rainwater spilling in from the opened vent. Since they were starting break into their rations, Sokka tried to hunt again but didn’t catch anything but a cold. Katara made him rest so it didn’t take a turn for the worst.

She sighed deeply. Why did they have to scrap for rations when there was an abundant amount of food and safety inside the human house? Katara was done letting paranoia define their lifestyle. Once Sokka was soundly asleep, she strapped on the borrowing gear and headed to the tunnels.

~*~

The first stop was the kitchen. Hakoda took her there a couple of times to show her where the humans kept the food. It was a shorter trip than to Zuko’s room and the path was worn with use. She’ll have enough time to stock up and drop by to say hi to Zuko all before Sokka even woke up.

Katara froze.

Just in front of her was a piece of paper cover in some sort of sticky substance. There were several dead bugs stuck to it. Katara closed her eyes and shook her head. She opened her eyes again and glared at the trap that did not magically vanish. This was ridiculous. Not all humans were dangerous. She cautiously edge around the trap and continued down the tunnel.

Once at the kitchen cover entrance, Katara removed the plywood and slipped through the hole. Inside were towering stacks of non-perishable food and wrapped bread. As Katara quickly filled her bag, Hakoda’s instructions echoed through her brain.

Take only what you need and never something they would miss.

The humans would not miss some breadcrumbs and one measly sugar cube when they already had so many. Katara crept back into the tunnels and headed to Zuko’s room without leaving a trace. The entrance behind the outlet was just as she left it. She slipped through onto the dresser and marveled how different everything looked during the day. The shapeless dark figures were now distinguishable pieces of furniture and other bedroom items. But was stood out the most was a miniature house that sat on a desk. It was so odd to see something her size in such an enormous room.

“You said you’d be back by now.” Katara turned her attention to Zuko who was sitting on the edge of the bed talking to someone. “Okay. No it’s just…I’m going to catch her. You’ll see.”

Katara’s breath hitched.

No. Stop being paranoid. It was just a coincidence. He’s not going to-

Momo popped his head over the dresser startling Katara. She knew Momo hated rain, but she never knew where he’d disappear to during storms. The stray cat must really like Zuko to let himself be taken inside.

Zuko glanced over and saw her.

“I’ll talk to you later, Uncle. Bye.” He put down a rectangular box then smiled at her. “Hi Katara.”

“Hello.” Katara relaxed some as she patted Momo’s nose. “Who were you talking to?”

“My Uncle. He’s still in Caldera.” Zuko said the last part exasperatedly.

Katara cocked her head to the side. “How is that possible?”

“I called him with my cell phone. See.” Zuko tapped the rectangular box and it lit up revealing a picture of a dark haired woman hugging two young children. Katara realized it was Zuko when he was younger along with his mother and sister. “Then you swipe your finger and press the green button, then press the person’s name.”

“How does this work?”

“The other person has to have a phone too. And there are satellites that transmit the airwaves… or was it signals…” Zuko scratched his head. “I’m not entirely sure to be honest.”

Katara laughed lightly. She knew she was being too jumpy. It was Zuko for crying out loud.

“Well it’s still incredible you can talk to someone far away.”

Katara felt a sudden lump in her throat. Zuko could still talk to his uncle despite the distance, but Katara had no idea where her father was or even how to reach him.

Zuko noticed Katara’s shift of demeanor and worried if he said something to upset her. An idea struck him, and he held up his hand.

“Can I show you something?”

“Okay.”

Katara climbed onto his hand then sat on her knees. His hand was warm and calloused but not uncomfortable. Zuko carried her over the miniature house and opened the wall.

“My great-grandfather made it.” Zuko said as he placed her down.

Katara gasped at the detailed decoration. It was so much fancier than her own home or even the human’s house.

“It’s beautiful.” She picked put a golden flower hair pin resting on the center of the coffee table. The petals sparkled in the light. “This pin looks just like the flower from Love Amongst the Dragons.”

“It was my mother’s. She had a whole collection of jewelry inspired by the book.”

“Oh.” Katara suddenly felt like she was intruding. She tried to return the hair pin, but Zuko stopped her.

“Keep it.”

“Are you sure?”

“It’s the least I can do after everything.” Zuko nodded, eyes smiling. “Besides, she’d want you to have it.”

Katara felt her cheeks heat up again as she thanked him. She knew how special items of lost loved ones were. The hair pin was too big to fit in her bag, so she clipped it to the straps.

“What do you think?”

“Beautiful.” Zuko smiled softly. “It’s just like when the spirits gifted Savita the flower.”

“You still need to finish the story.”

“Oh right. But first explore the dollhouse. I want to know what you think.”

“This is amazing.” Katara picked up a framed picture of a regal looking man dressed in red. “Who is this a painting of-“

The entire house shook as the wall was slammed shut. Katara dropped the picture and her bag as she almost lost her balance.

“Zuko?!”

Katara ran to the front door only to discovered it was blocked and the windows wouldn’t budge. Deep dread washed over her.

“Zuko let me out!” Katara banged against the door.

No no no. This wasn’t happening!!!

“ZUKO!”

~*~

He slammed the dollhouse wall shut harder than he meant too. A surge of guilt coursed through him as he pushed Ursa’s jewelry box in front of the door. Seconds later Hama let herself into his room without knocking. Zuko stood in front of the dollhouse trying to look as casual as possible.

“There you are dearie.” Hama raised a brow. “Who were you talking to just now?”

“Oh um, Momo.”

Zuko gestured to the hissing cat. Momo always threw a fit whenever Hama was close by. It was what alerted Zuko of her arrival in the first place.

“Of course.” Hama pursed her lips. She then frowned. “Do you hear that? It sounds like faint thumping.”

“I don’t hear anything.” Zuko said quickly. He cleared his throat then asked if she needed anything.

“Ah yes, I can’t reach the crockpot on the top shelf and I simply don’t trust these old bones with a step ladder. Could you be a dear and get it down for me?”

“Sure. I’ll be right down.”

Zuko continued to stand at the desk.

“Well I’m not getting any younger dearie.”

“You meant right now?”

“Yes Zuko.” Hama gave him a strained smile. “And take that cat with you. I don’t believe it enjoys being indoors.”

Zuko glanced nervously behind him at the dollhouse that had gone quiet. He was worried for Katara but lingering any longer would make Hama even more suspicious. Zuko knew she was snooping around the house making adjustments as she pleased even if Uncle insisted she was just being neighborly. Zuko tsked. If he hurried, he could get the crockpot and get back before Hama discovered Katara. He scooped up Momo then sprinted downstairs.

He just hoped he was making the right decision.

~*~

Katara peered out the window. She could barely make out the other person in front of Zuko. It must be the old woman Sokka mentioned. As soon as Zuko left, the woman stared daggers at the dollhouse. Katara gasped and jumped away from the window. She scrambled behind the velvet couch just as the dollhouse wall forcibly snatched opened.

“Where are you hiding, pest?”

Katara bit her lip as she peaked around the couch. The woman picked up her abandoned bag and dump out the food and hair pin.

“Ha! I knew it. You little thief.”

The doll furniture was moved around and knocked over as the woman continued to search for her. Katara’s heart stopped when long thin fingers curled around the couch. Thinking quickly, she pulled out her pincushion needle and sliced a finger.

The woman jerked her hand back yelping in surprise. Katara sprinted into the kitchen where she spotted the back door. Without wasting a moment, she squeezed through, and escaped through an electrical outlet.

“You’ll pay for that!!!” the woman’s voice echoed through the tunnel. Tears streamed down Katara’s face as she ran.

She didn’t stop until she made it home.

Chapter Text

Zuko wanted to kick himself.

As soon as he got the crockpot down, he rushed upstairs and nearly collided with Hama. After she excused herself to the kitchen, Zuko quickly went into his room and closed the door.

“Katara?!” He carefully reopened the dollhouse wall. “Are you alright...?”

Zuko trailed off when he saw the complete disarray inside. Furniture was flipped over and the tiny chandelier that hung in the living room had shattered. Katara’s bag was left abandoned with all its contents flung out, including the golden flower hair pin. What was worse were the droplets of red liquid staining the polished hardwood. Zuko broke out in cold sweat.

“Katara!!!”

He frantically searched the dollhouse for his missing friend, but she was nowhere to be found. Zuko suddenly remembered Hama clutching her hand moments ago. Fueled by anger, Zuko sprung up and marched downstairs to demand answers.

“What did you do to her?!”

Hama paused from stirring the broth and raised a brow. “Her?”

“Don’t play dumb! You’ve been after the borrowers ever since you got here!”

“Would you prefer I never came to treat your infection in the first place? Or that I never volunteer to look after you while your uncle's out of town per his request?”

"That's not what I said!" Zuko caught a glance at Hama's bandaged finger and narrowed his eyes. “What happened to your finger?”

Hama held up the plate of chopped vegetables. “Does this answer your question?”

“That doesn’t explain why the dollhouse is a mess!“

“Were you not leaning against it earlier? Those things are so fragile and easy to jostle.”

“Stop dodging the questions!" Zuko rampaged through draws and cabinets. "What you do to Katara?!"

“Ah, I see what’s going on here.” Hama shook her head and tsked. “Iroh’s been gone longer than expected and you miss him, so you latched onto the fairy tale he shared with you to stave off the anxiety.”

“What? That's not-“

“So you’re not worried that he left you for good?”

Zuko faltered. “H-He wouldn’t…”

“Of course not. But it hurts to think about, right?” Hama spoke softly. “Trauma does that to people. To cope we imagine pleasant things to distract ourselves and ease the pain. We burry ourselves into books, talk to stray cats, and pretend fairy tales are real.”

Zuko balled his shaking hands into fists and angrily looked away. "You're wrong."

Hama rubbed his arm sympathetically. “It’s okay Zuko. The herbs I used to treat you have a bit of a psychological effect that takes a moment to wear off. Not to mention the stress of your uncle being away visiting the rest of your family.”

Zuko whipped his head back at her alarm. “…What?”

“Oh, you didn’t know that’s why he left?”

Zuko couldn’t breathe. Iroh only told him that he was taking care of some financial paperwork.

"Why else would he be gone so long?" Hama tsked again. “Poor thing. Go lie down. Dinner will be ready in a few.”

Defeated, Zuko numbly returned to his room and slid to the floor. The pain was all too familiar. He felt like he was about to throw up. Momo let out a sad meow as he nestled Zuko’s side.

“Why wouldn’t he tell me?” Zuko asked in a small voice.

Momo whimpered then jumped onto the desk and looked back at Zuko expectedly. Zuko took a deep breath and wiped his eyes. Regardless of whether what Hama said was true or not, he had to make sure Katara was safe.

Zuko took a closer look at the dollhouse before noticing the kitchen backdoor was opened. He pushed the house away from the wall and saw an electrical outlet covering that was not fully in place. Zuko popped it off with his finger revealing a hole that led to a dark tunnel.

Hope began to stir deep inside him. Katara could had escaped through here. She must have! Zuko replaced the covering then tore off a piece of paper to write a note. Using the front door to avoid Hama, Zuko made his way to the air vent and left the note. It was all he could do for now.

Zuko just hoped it was enough.

~*~

Katara woke with a splitting headache. As soon as she returned home yesterday, she buried herself under the covers and cried herself to sleep. At some point in time, Katara heard her door open then close again. She didn't move. Katara was so mad at herself for getting too comfortable and being too trusting. All she wanted to do was wake up from this nightmare. Despite wanting to stay in bed all day, Katara pulled herself out and changed. There was still work that needed to be done. She stumbled into the kitchen half-awake where Sokka had his maps spread all over the table.

“Feeling better?”

Katara didn't respond as she drew water for the sink.

Sokka frowned noticing something more than an illness was off. “What’s wrong?”

“Dad was right. We have to move.” She said bitterly without turning around.

"I'm going to kill that bean." Sokka's eyes darken. “Did he hurt you?”

“No.”

“What about the old lady?”

Katara flinched as she flashbacked to the long thin fingers curling around the couch.

“If Dad’s not back by the end of summer, we should go still leave.”

“We better start packing then.” Sokka agreed. He rested a hand on her shoulder. “We’ll be fine. I promise.”

Katara nodded grimly. She was still too angry at herself to respond properly.

She finished what few dishes were left then grabbed the laundry basket to gather the drying clothes. It had finally stopped raining and soft morning sunlight filtered in from the air vent. Katara packed up and almost left until a splash of color caught her attention. Lying on the seal was a blue wildflower on top of a folded piece of paper. Against her better judgement, Katara unfolded the paper.

Are you okay?

A sharp pain stabbed her heart, twisting it like a knife. It hurt so badly. Katara ripped up the note as hot tears poured down.

She was not going to be tricked again.

Chapter Text

Hama carefully trekked through the weeds by the side of the house and found an air vent right under the pantry. She pulled out her phone and shined a light in. She didn’t see anything besides leaves, rocks, and old bricks. There had to be more since Zuko had been hovering around it lately.

She returned to the kitchen and sorted through the pantry. After unloading the food and moving some boxes out of the way, she found a loose floorboard and pulled it up. Spider webs stuck to the ends and a cloud of dust sprayed everywhere. Hama coughed and fanned the dust away before peering in. She could just make out a large wooden container with small neatly cut holes resembling doors and windows. A little trench was dug around the container like a sand barrier.

Hama smirked. She knew if she stirred Zuko up enough and waited patiently, he’ll lead her right to the thieves’ den.

Once again, she was right.

~*~

Katara secured the stiches on the last bag, still low in spirits. This place was her home. It wasn’t fair they had to leave just to survive. Katara sighed again while packing away her sewing kit.

“If we cut our rations by half, we should have enough for about a month.” Sokka said while scribing on the map. “But I bet there’s plenty of game in the forest.”

“That’s great Sokka.” Katara said bitterly.

Sokka put down the pencil lead and leaned against the wall. He traced the engravings on the doorframe where their height was marked throughout the years.

“I’m going to miss home too.” He said quietly. “Hey, maybe you’ll find another roly-poly to coddle.”

Katara let out a small smile remembering their pet. “You were the one who dragged Sakari home begging Mom to heal her.”

“Yeah well at least I didn’t stuff her into dresses.”

“She liked them.” Katara huffed as they both laughed.

A hissing sound came from outside the house. The siblings glanced nervously at each other. It didn’t sound like a beetle or any other creature they’ve heard before. Sokka grabbed the bow and Katara her pin needle before creeping out to investigate. A strong scent immediately burned their eyes and noses. Just ahead was some sort of box with gas leaking out.

“What is that thing?” Katara pulled her shirt over her nose.

Sokka’s instincts were screaming. He grabbed Katara’s hand.

“We need to get out of here! Now!!!”

More gas filled the ventilation shaft making it hard to see. The siblings raced to exit that led to the garden only to discovered it was blocked. Going through the tunnels into the human house was out of the question. The only other option was through the air vent shaft. Quickly growing weak and hazy from the gas, the siblings leaned against each other and hurried to air vent as fast as they could manage. After hauling themselves up the bricks, they staggered into the garden coughing and wheezing.

“You… okay…” Katara asked in between breaths.

“Yeah.” Sokka bent down and rested his hands on knees.

His blood froze.

The dirt was a different color than what it should be. Sokka pushed Katara out of the way just as cage walls sprang up and locked in place.

“SOKKA!” Katara pulled at the wires to no avail.

Heavy footsteps shook the ground.

“Go!” Sokka hissed while fighting to keep consciousness. “It’s too late for me. Save yourself!”

“I’m not leaving you!” Katara tried to pull out the pin needle attached to her dress but her hands kept slipping. She saw double as her vision blurred. Just as a dark shadow fell over them, Sokka reached through the bars and gave his sister a firm shove.

“RUN!!!”

With no other choice, Katara abandoned her brother and disappeared into the garden. It felt like running in slow motion in a nightmare. The sun was too bright and the world spun too quickly. She tripped over something and landed hard. Katara tried to get up but her body refused to move. The last thing she remembered was something hovering over her before blacking out.

~*~

Sokka cracked open his eyes and pushed himself up to sitting position. Everything hurt. There was something dry and crusty all over his arm. It took him a moment to realize it was blood. Sokka massaged his aching head while trying to figure out where he was. The room was dark and reeked of rotting wood and gasoline. There was a low creak as light poured in. An elderly woman strolled in and tsked.

“Oh. You’re alive.”

Sokka’s breath hitched. It was the bean who set up all those traps! He swallowed thickly before putting on a brave face.

“What's your deal?!” Sokka yelled hoarsely. “Did you miss a couple of crumbs that badly?!”

“Did you pay for those crumbs?” the woman walked closer until she loomed over him. Sokka unconsciously shrank back. “Taking without permission is stealing.”

“Like what you did to me?!”

“Why am even having this argument with a pest?” Hama scoffed. “Where’s the female?”

Sokka glanced away. “I-I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I know there’s more of you. Where is she?”

“It’s just me, I promise.”

Hama hummed unconvinced as she turned to leave. “No matter. The gas probably finished her off anyway.”

Sokka brought his knees to his chest as the crushing realization of the situation weighed on him. Dad was missing. His home was destroyed. And now his sister might be dead. He covered his eyes and choked out a sob.

He failed.

~*~

Something was scratching at his door.

Confused, Zuko stopped pacing and opened his bedroom door to find a very distraught Momo throwing a fit.

“What are you-”

The cat bolted downstairs as Zuko followed and made it in time to see Momo leap out an open window into the garden. Zuko did a quick survey of the kitchen to make sure Hama wasn’t around before slipping outside. He found Momo crouched over something by the air vent. Deep dread settled inside.

“What’s wrong?” Zuko asked concerningly while kneeling down.

The cat backed up revealing Katara lying motionless on the ground.

“Ash and cinders!” Zuko swore. “Katara? Can you hear me?”

The girl didn’t respond. Zuko began to panic. He knew basic first aid but was too large to perform it on her. He couldn’t tell if she was breathing or not! Still, he couldn’t just leave her there. Zuko gently picked Katara up, careful not to harm her any further, and cupped his other hand over her before heading back inside. He retrieved a bed from the dollhouse and gently laid Katara on it. He then poured some water into a plastic bottle cap.

“Please be okay.” Zuko whispered before leaking a drop of water onto her face.

Katara groaned as she stirred. Zuko let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding.

She was still alive.

Katara’s eyes suddenly flew opened and she jolted up in a panic.

“You’re okay.” Zuko said softly. “It’s just me.”

Katara flinched and pulled out her pin needle.

“Where did you take my brother?!”

Zuko’s heart lurched. “Wha-“

“Don’t play dumb! You and that old woman have been hunting us this whole time! Where is he?!?!”

“Old woman? Hama.” Zuko tsked. “I knew she was lying!”

Katara got off the bed but stumbled as a wave of nausea hit hurt. Zuko reached out to help but she aimed the pin needle at him.

“S-Stay back!”

“Katara, I’m not going to hurt you. Please tell me what’s going on.”

“I’m not falling for that again…” Katara slid to her knees as her head swam.

“Please drink.” Zuko pushed the cap of water towards her before backing away to give her some space. “I don’t know what Hama did to you or your brother but I promise you that I never wanted to hurt you.”

Katara shook her head. “I heard you. You said you were going to catch ‘her’. Then you trapped me inside the dollhouse!”

Zuko looked shocked as Katara angerly turned away.

“I was trying to hide you from Hama! I locked you inside the dollhouse because Momo alerted me she was coming and I didn’t want her to get you. She has been snooping around looking for borrowers. I tried to tell Uncle but he wouldn’t believe me. Then I go outside to find you on the ground passed out and…”

Zuko got on his knees to be at eye level with her.

“Katara. This is all my fault. I’m so sorry.”

She hugged herself as tears slipped down. His voice held the same sincerity it did when he told her about his father.

“I promise you that I will find your brother.” Zuko said firmly.

He got up and walked towards the door before Katara called out to him. She gulped down the water and wiped her face then stood determinedly.

“I’m coming with you.”

Chapter Text

Momo hissed at the door causing Katara to tense up again. Zuko swore under his breath as he spun around and held out his hand towards Katara. There was no time for doubts. Acting quickly, she leapt onto Zuko’s hand just as the door cracked opened. Zuko held his hand behind his back and braced himself.

“Dearie there are some pest control people coming to inspect the house.” Hama spoke evenly. “Stay in your room until they leave. I don’t want you wandering around in your condition.”

“What?! Wait, you can’t-"

Zuko reached for the door but Hama quickly closed and locked it.

“It’s for your own good, Zuko.”

He banged on the door demanding to be let out. Katara bit her lip. There had to be a way. Maybe she could use the tunnels. But then she’d still have no way to open the bed room door. An idea hit her. Katara tugged on Zuko’s sleeve.

“The window!”

Zuko nodded and brought Katara up to his shoulder before opening the window. Sure enough, there was already a pest control van parked in the drive way. Zuko swallowed. They had to find Katara’s brother fast.

Momo jumped onto the window seal and scurried along the roof tiles. Zuko followed, carefully easing himself onto the roof while keeping his hands on the edge. It was too far to jump straight down. Zuko shimmied to the other side of the house to the nearest window and tried to pry it open.

“It's locked. I’m going to have to try another window.”

“No wait.” Katara pointed to a hole at the corner. “I can fit!”

Zuko lowered her to the window seal, and she slipped through the hole. Katara then climbed up the curtain to the window lock. It was hard in her weaken state from the gas but she pushed through. Once at the top, Katara used her remaining strength to undo the lock. Zuko slid the window open with ease and climbed through.

“You’re incredible.” He offered another hand to Katara.

“It was nothing.” She lied.

She was dead tired and sore. But they couldn’t give up now.

Once Katara was back on Zuko’s shoulder, he carefully went downstairs. He ducked behind a corner when the workers came inside. After waiting for the coast to be clear, Zuko peaked into the kitchen. Hama was there talking to someone. There was no way he could check it now.

Katara racked her brain. If the old woman had people sweeping the house, then it wouldn’t make sense for her to hide Sokka in the cottage. He’d have to be someplace where the workers won’t find him.

"She must be keeping Sokka outside somewhere." Katara whispered.

Zuko's eyes widen. "The shed!"

He crept out the side door and headed to the shed out back. It was rigidity and in much worse condition than the old cottage itself. Zuko creaked open the door. It was nearly pitch black inside especially with the sun setting.

“Sokka!” Katara called out. “Are you here?!”

“Katara?” a voice answered.

Zuko pulled out his phone and shined the light into the far corner. On the shelf sat a small cage surrounded by junk and yard debris. Inside was a borrower close to Katara’s age. He hissed and raised an arm to shield himself from the light.

“Sokka! You’re alive!!” Katara cried.

Zuko moved the light and let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.

Sokka gripped the wiring. “Get away from my sister!”

“I’m not going to hurt you.” Zuko said as he placed Katara down on the shelf. “I promise.”

“You led that old bean to us!”

“No I didn’t. She tricked me too.”

“Zuko’s here to help.” Katara pulled out her needle and started prying apart the wires.

Sokka glared up at him. “Why do I find that so hard to believe?”

“I’ll prove it by getting you out of here.”

Zuko inspected the cage and saw it had a pad lock. He placed the phone down beside them and announced he was going to look for the key or something cut the wires with.

“Are you okay?” Sokka whispered when Zuko was far enough away.

“Yeah. Zuko found me in the garden after Hama…” Katara shook her head. “We’ll talk after this.”

She pried the wire into a large enough hole for Sokka to crawl through. The siblings immediately embraced relived the be united again. Before Katara could tell Zuko, he rushed to the door and blocked the entrance.

“Ms. Hama!”

Katara’s heart skipped a beat. With nowhere else to go, she and Sokka ducked behind some junk.

“Zuko I thought I told you to stay in your room. What are you doing out here?”

“…Just looking for something.”

Hama peaked over his shoulder.

“Let me in.” she said firmly.

Katara bit her lip again. She had to help him! Ignoring Sokka’s protests, she crept out of their hiding spot and unlocked Zuko’s phone with her foot. She hit the green button like Zuko showed her then hit home.

“I’m serious, Zuko. Your uncle won’t like-“ Hama was cut off by the landline ringing loudly from the cottage.

She eyed Zuko who shrugged his shoulders. It could be Iroh checking in. Hama huffed and went back to the cottage.

Sokka stared at Zuko’s phone awe. “How did you do that?”

Katara shrugged. “With satellites and airwaves.”

Sokka’s confusion only deepen. Zuko returned and held out his hand.

“Coast is clear.”

The siblings climbed on and Zuko retrieved his phone. As he walked out, he heard the backfire from an old car. Zuko’s heart leapt. Only one car sounded like that and still ran.

“Uncle’s back!” Zuko wanted to greet him but stopped as he looked at the siblings. “Where…”

“We need to get to the forest.” Sokka answered.

Zuko nodded and walked towards the edge. He placed them down on the rock he spent most of the summer reading on. Sokka quickly slipped into the leaves while Katara remained. Sensing Zuko hesitance, Katara rested her hand on his thumb.

“Go to him. We’ll be alright.”

"Is this it?"

Katara paused for a moment. After all they been through, she didn't want to say goodbye just yet.

"Meet me here at first light."

Before Zuko could respond, Iroh called his name. He turned around and saw the old man waving at him. Zuko was relieved to see him again. He turned back to Katara to say more but saw nothing but wildflowers and leaves.

Chapter Text

Zuko practically sprinted to the driveway thrilled to see his uncle again. He stopped short when he saw the last person he expected leaning against Iroh’s car.

“Azula?!”

She looked completely worn out with bags under her eyes and short choppy hair.

“Hello Zuzu.” Azula sighed.

“What are you doing here?”

“What do you think?” she gestured to the large bag on the ground.

Zuko scowled. “Did Father-”

“Of course not! Don’t be ridiculous!” she spat and crossed her arms. “I had a… lapse of judgement, so Father decided I needed to exercise more self-discipline. He’ll come back for me in due time.”

Zuko pulled her into a hug. Azula stiffened.

“I’m so sorry.” He muttered.

“Oh please.” Azula scoffed though her voice cracked.

“Iroh be reasonable. I was trying to help.” Hama fussed while walking out the door with her bag in tow.

Azula used the distraction to pull away from her brother.

“And you have. I can never thank you enough for helping my nephew. But there is a line. How I maintain my house is my concern, not yours.”

Hama huffed and marched away without sparing a second glance at the siblings. Zuko glared at her all the way. Serves her right.

“Nephew!” Iroh smiled warmly as he embraced Zuko. “I’m sorry it took so long.”

Zuko returned the hug as relief flooded him. Iroh ushered the teenagers inside and showed Azula to her new room. She slammed the door shut leaving Iroh and Zuko alone in the hall.

“Did he touch her?!” Zuko hissed.

Iroh sighed wearily as he led his nephew back downstairs. “Not that I know of but there are other forms of abuse. Azula was not faring well after you left, and Ozai did not want to deal with her.”

Zuko swallowed thickly. “So this is why you were in Caldera so long.”

“I didn’t tell you because I didn't want to upset you.” Iroh poured him a cup of tea. “Luckily everything worked out. Thanks to Father's will, we have enough money to cover medical expenses. Most of all, both you and Azula are safe now. She will get better with time. Just like you.”

Zuko slowly exhaled.

“And you don’t have to worry about our dear friends in the garden either.” Iroh shook his head. “I should have heeded your warning sooner. Ms. Hama certainly will not be returning.”

“That’s a relief.” Zuko sighed.

“I understand the place could use a bit of sweeping, but a whole pest control unit? Next she would have called the Got Junk people. I mean, it’s not that messy here, is it?”

Momo, who had snuck back inside, leapt onto Zuko's lap and purred loudly. Zuko smiled and petted his head.

“It’s perfect Uncle.”

~*~

The siblings hunkered down a hollowed out stump to wait out the night.

“I’m going back to say goodbye tomorrow morning.” Katara said as she wrapped the brother’s arm with leaves.

Sokka hummed while he watched the exit.

“Give the bean my thanks.”

Katara smiled to herself. Sokka stood suddenly.

“What?”

“That light.” He pointed towards the flicker in the distance that was steadily approaching them.

Katara grabbed her needle. It was too late in the season for fireflies.

“Do you think it’s…” Katara trailed off.

Sokka glanced back at the light that was now closer. He cupped his hands over his mouth.

“Who’s there?!”

“Sokka is that you?”

Katara gasped. Could it be? Sokka looked at her thinking the same thing.

“Dad?” He called out cautiously.

“Sokka!”

“Dad!!”

The siblings raced towards the light and soon collided with the man. Hakoda wrapped his arms around his children.

“I’m so sorry it took so long. I ran into some… setbacks” Hakoda referred to his cased leg.

“Are you okay? What happened?!” Katara asked worriedly.

“I’m fine Snow blossom. Thankfully Jet here found and patched me up.”

Katara gawked the other borrower hovering nearby. She had never seen another one outside her family. He was about the same age as Sokka with strange clothes and borrowing equipment. They did not look like the handmade ones her family used.

“Good to finally meet you. We were just coming to get you two.” He gave her a friendly nod. “But might I suggest we continue this reunion elsewhere?”

The group went back to the stump where Hakoda filled in his children. After traveling down the river on a makeshift raft, he crashed and broke his leg. Jet and his friends found him soon after and took him to the tribe. Sokka and Katara gapped at them.

“A whole tribe of borrowers?” Katara asked.

“Yeah. Right under the bean’s town.” Jet smiled. “We call it the Underground City.”

“That’s where we’re moving. The tribe already agreed to help settle us in.” Hakoda added before growing serious. “Now. What are you two doing all the way out here?”

The siblings looked at each other.

“It’s a long story.” Katara sighed.

She and Sokka told them about Hama, the traps, and how Zuko recused them at the end.

“I know you told me not to go into the human house. I’m sorry Dad.”

“I’m just relieved you’re alright. Both of you.” Hakoda pulled Katara into a hug. “We’ll have to thank the human for all of his help.”

“How?” Sokka asked.

Katara’s eyes lit up.

“I have an idea.”

~*~

Iroh yawned as he walked downstairs. Despite finally having time to sleep in, he still woke right before sunrise. Some habits die hard. Mind as well get breakfast ready. Much to his surprise, Azula was already in the kitchen brewing tea.

“An early start for you too I see.” Iroh said as he joined her.

“Did you think I’d spend the whole time sulking in my room?” Azula snapped. “No second of the day is to be wasted.”

“It is still important to take breaks and let the mind rest.” Iroh pulled out a bowl of fruit and began peeling them. “After all, even monkeys fall from trees.”

Azula tensed and looked away.

“But that doesn’t mean they won’t scale the heights again.”

Azula was quiet for a moment before speaking again.

“How do you take your tea, Uncle?”

“Jasmine would be lovely.”

Iroh paused to admire the sunrise. A faint glimmer caught his eye. On the window seal sat two emerald teacups neatly glued back together.

“Would you look at that.” Iroh said as he examined the cup. It was as it was never broken in the first place.

He heard footsteps racing downstairs and the door opening.

“Nephew.”

Zuko frantically peered around the corner.

“Yes?”

“Send my regards.”

“Of course.” Zuko nodded before sprinting away.

Azula raised a brow. “What was that about?”

“He’s visiting some friends of ours.” Iroh chuckled lightly to himself. “Now, niece, how do you take your tea?”

~*~

The dew covered grass cling to Zuko’s legs as he crossed the field with Momo following close behind. The air was cool with autumn close on its way. He soon made it to the edge of the forest and knelt on the rock.

“Katara?”

“Over here.” She jumped off a flower onto the rock. “You made it.”

Zuko laid down so he was at eye level with her. “Of course. Uncle sends his regards.”

“So does my family.”

“Now that Hama’s gone, it’s safe for you all to stay.”

Katara hugged herself. The trauma was all too fresh.

“I know but Dad found a whole tribe of borrowers willing to take us in. Also, we don’t know how long the human house would stay safe or the next Hama would show up.”

Zuko’s eyes grew somber. “I understand.”

“You always do.” Katara tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. The moment she had been dreading arrived. “So I guess this is goodbye.”

“I guess it is.” Zuko said quietly.

Momo meowed sadly and nuzzled Katara. She scratched his chin affectionally and whispered goodbye.

“Could you tell me how Love Amongst the Dragons ended?”

Zuko gave her a sad smile.

“After Savita escaped the enteral mist, she came across the Dragon Emperor and Blue Spirit’s battle. Even though the Dragon Emperor didn’t have his powers anymore, he trained hard in the human world and was evenly matched with the Blue Spirit. Sensing his defeat, the Blue Spirit attacked Savita instead. The Dragon Emperor leapt in front of her and took the blow. Savita used the golden flower to heal his wounds but it was too late.”

Katara gasped covered her mouth.

“It was the last test the Dragon Emperor needed to complete to return to dragon form. His spirit left his body and he returned to his kingdom while the Blue Spirit was banished for breaking the sacred rules of the Agni Kai.”

“That’s how it ends?”

“Not quite. His time spent as a human changed the Dragon Emperor. He made a new decree to treat the humans as equals and serve with respect and kindness. He begged the Elder Spirits to let him return to Savita but they couldn’t for he didn’t belong to the human world. Instead, the Elder Spirits blessed the golden flower so it would bloom for eternity as a reminder of the Dragon Emperor’s love.”

Katara wiped her eyes. “That was so sad yet beautiful.”

“Yeah it is.” Zuko pulled out Ursa’s golden flower hair pin out of his pocket and gave it to Katara. “The flower came to mean enduring love. No matter what happens, love remains.”

“Zuko…thank you. For everything.” Katara removed her hair ribbon and tied it around his finger. “To remember me by.”

“I could never forget you, Katara.” Zuko swallowed the lump in his throat. “You mean so much to me.”

Katara hugged his finger as tears streamed down her cheeks. “I’ll never forget you either. Goodbye Zuko.”

She kissed his finger then slid off the rock and disappeared into the grass without looking back. Zuko brought his hand to his heart as tears formed in his own eyes.

“Goodbye Katara.”