Over the past three years, my life in the Fire Nation palace has been both rewarding and challenging. Living in the Fire Nation as Iroh fiancée, I found myself adjusting to the customs and traditions of the Fire Nation quite quickly.
While I wholeheartedly embraced my new role in the Fire Nation, my heart often yearned for my home in the Air Temple in Republic City, where I grew up.
Iroh, being a dedicated general in the Fire Nation's military, was often away due to his responsibilities. His commitment to his duty made it difficult for him to spend as much time with me as we both desired. Despite our love for each other, the physical distance between us caused moments of sadness and longing for Iroh and myself.
During Iroh's absences, I immersed myself in learning more about the Fire Nation's culture, history, and bending techniques. I strived between my Air Nomad heritage and my life in the Fire Nation, earning the respect and admiration of the Fire Nation for my efforts to foster understanding and harmony.
One day, while contemplating my life and my longing for home, I made a decision. I realized that I needed to reconnect with my roots and find solace in the city I grew up in. Despite my responsibilities in the Fire Nation and my engagement to Iroh, I knew that visiting Republic City was essential for my emotional well-being.
I communicated my feelings to Iroh, who understood my need to return back home. He admired my strength and resilience, and though he was sad to see me leave, he supported my decision. He assured me that our love would endure the distance and that he would eagerly await my return.
Upon my arrival in Republic City, reuniting with my family was both heartwarming and bittersweet. I couldn't help but feel a tinge of sadness witnessing how much Jinora, Ikki, and Meelo had grown during my time away. It weighed on my heart to realize that Rohan, the youngest, barely knew me anymore, and I regretted missing out on watching my younger siblings grow up.
The realization that they didn't have a consistent role model to look up to during my absence saddened me deeply. However, spending just a few weeks with them felt remarkably natural, as if I had never left.
In the midst of the chaos, I found an inner strength I never knew I possessed. Juggling my responsibilities in Republic City alongside my feelings for Iroh, I saw just how resilient I could be. This transformative journey not only deepened my bond with my airbending heritage but also deepened the profound love I have for Iroh.
Although, I know I will eventually return to the Fire Nation, the current stage of life for both Iroh and me simply doesn't align. My love for him remains the same, and we are still together, but circumstances have placed our paths apart for now. The fact that he's far away due to his military service makes things even more complicated, and it's been on my mind a lot. But despite the challenges, I hold our bond close to my heart.
We still talk and love each other deeply; this isn't a breakup. We just need time to figure out what we want in life. As we navigate this phase, we stay connected, hoping that our paths will come together again, stronger than ever.
As a few months went by in Republic City, I couldn't help but feel nostalgic about the days when I was part of a team. Adventures with Korra, Bolin, Asami, and Mako felt like distant memories now. Our bond was once unbreakable, but life's demands had taken us on separate paths, gradually pulling us apart.
My heart was burdened with concern as I came to the realization that it had been a while since I last heard from Korra. Given the distance between us, I couldn't be sure if she even knew that I was back in Republic City. I understood the gravity of her injuries, which had kept her in the South Pole for an extended period.
Each member of Team Avatar had chosen their own path. I dedicated my time to helping my father and the airbenders rebuild and strengthen our ties with the other nations. The responsibilities of leadership and the desire to carry on the legacy of the Air Nomads consumed much of my time.
Bolin, on the other hand, found employment in Zaofu, working for Kuvira, which seemed like a controversial decision to some. His desire to contribute to the betterment of the world led him down this path, but it also led to some tension within the group.
Asami, being the industrious entrepreneur she was, continued to focus on the success of Future Industries. She poured her energy into advancing technology and promoting progress, but the demands of her work often left her with limited time for personal connections.
Mako, who had been a detective, took on a new role as the bodyguard for the future king of the Earth Kingdom. However, this change wasn't exactly what he had envisioned for himself, leading to a sense of discontent and a longing for something more fulfilling.
Even with the distance between us, I remained in touch with Asami and occasionally saw Mako, but the memories of our time together were deeply cherished. I longed for the camaraderie, the laughter, and the sense of purpose that came from being part of a team that made a significant impact on the world. Those moments held a special place in my heart, and I couldn't help but reflect on them with fondness and nostalgia.
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At this moment, I rushed to the central city station, eager to catch President Raiko's speech, but I arrived a bit late, maneuvering through the large crowd to find my family.
"You're late," My father said.
"Sorry, uncle Bumi got his head stuck in the cookie jar again."
My father shook his head. "I thought he was leaving. What's wrong with him, seriously?"
Amid the commotion, I noticed Mako's gaze beside me. When I turned to him, he quickly looked away, feeling a bit embarrassed.
I chuckled softly. "Hey, Mako."
He gave a little wave. "Hey, Fara."
Next to him was Prince Wu, whom I had never personally met, but Mako often complained about him.
"Fara, stop talking and listen to the speech," my mother scolded. "Your friend is up there."
"Sorry."
Turning my attention back to President Raiko, he continued, "And of course, my biggest thanks goes to Asami Sato and Future Industries. She brought our old central terminal into the modern era. Ladies and gentlemen, the world is entering a new age of peace and prosperity. Soon, Prince Wu will take his rightful place on the Earth Kingdom throne. And thanks to our updated rail system, Republic City and the Earth Kingdom will be united like never before!"
The crowd erupted in applause as Raiko and Asami cut the ribbon to ceremoniously open the new station.
After President Raiko's speech, I rushed up to greet Asami.
"Aw, Fara, I'm glad you made it, even though you were twenty minutes late," she said with a smile.
I cringed, feeling guilty. "Sorry."
Asami and I were engaged in conversation when a reporter approached us for an interview. Just then, Prince Wu interrupted our chat.
"Hey there! Asami, right? Great train house. Maybe you can give me a personal tour sometime, what do you say?" he said, trying to impress her.
Asami's annoyance was evident as she replied, "I do like the idea of putting you on a train and sending you far, far away."
Prince Wu chuckled, undeterred. "That's... that's funny. I like funny dames. Maybe I should introduce myself. I'm Prince Wu, future king."
"Yeah... I'm aware of who you are," Asami responded, unamused.
"Don't let my reputation intimidate you. I'm still human, just like everyone else. Only more human, like, extra human or hmm, superhuman," he continued, clearly full of himself.
Asami raised an eyebrow, questioning him, "Superhuman?"
I couldn't help but think about how much Mako disliked Prince Wu; he talked more than Ikki, and that's saying something.
I rolled my eyes at him and couldn't resist saying, "Has anyone ever told you to shut up?"
"Well... yes- wait!" Mako was nearby as Prince Wu grabbed his collar and pointed to me aggressively. "Who is she?!"
"That's Fara, Avatar Aang's granddaughter and daughter of Master Tenzin."
Prince Wu seemed mesmerized. "And where has she been, hiding? I definitely would have spotted this beautiful girl somewhere."
I forced a fake smile, clearly uncomfortable.
"I've never dated a girl with gray or white hair, which one is it?" He smirked.
"I don't think you've ever dated a girl," I retorted.
Prince Wu laughed and playfully slapped Mako on the chest. "She's funny, she's got jokes."
Asami and I exchanged looks, amused yet baffled by his behavior.
"So, what do you say? Can I show you ladies a low-key night out with a superhuman soon-to-be king?" he asked, wiggling his eyebrows.
Asami and I give him an even weirder look.
Mako came to our rescue, interrupting, "Prince Wu! President Raiko has some really important... king stuff to talk to you about."
Disappointed, Prince Wu sighed, "Now? Fine." He blew me a kiss, saying, "Think about the offer. I'll be back."
Asami rolled her eyes as he walked away.
"He's a real charmer, huh?" Mako said sarcastically.
"He's... something," I trailed off, still finding him quite puzzling.
"How can you stand being his bodyguard?" Asami questioned.
"Well, I just remind myself that once he's on the throne, I go back to being a detective," Mako replied.
I couldn't resist adding humor to the situation, "And that works?
"I also go home, and smash my head into the wall for an hour, you know, just to get the stress out."
We shared a laugh, and Asami giggled too.
"It's good to see you, Mako. It's been too long. You hear from Bolin lately?" Asami asked.
"I haven't talked to him for a while, but he's coming in a few days for the coronation. And Beifong told me that Korra is getting in tonight." Mako said.
"I can't wait to see her." Asami blushed lightly. "It's going to be weird, having the old Team Avatar back in the city after all these years."
Mako nudged my side teasingly, "So, what's up with you and General Iroh? Still on a break?"
I sighed and pursed my lips, "We aren't on a break. We're only just nations away from each other, doing seperate things and trying to figure out what we want in life..." I gasped, realization hitting me, "Oh no, we are on a break!"
Tears welled up in my eyes, Asami quickly intervened, smacking Mako's arm and hugging me, "Oh, honey, you guys aren't on a break. You still love each other; it's just not the right time to be together."
I scoffed, my tears flowing, "That's pretty much a break, Asami."
She shot Mako another disapproving look. "You see what you did?!"
"I'm sorry!"
Wiping away my tears, I took a deep breath, trying to compose myself, "I'm fine, I'm fine." I waved to my friends, "I'll see you guys at dinner tonight." I quickly made my way over to my father, who was chatting with Prince Wu, President Raiko, and Lin Beifong.
Hugging my dad tightly, I tried to focus on their conversation, "After your coronation, the United Forces will escort you to Ba Sing Se," he was saying.
Prince Wu seemed concerned, "Right. About that. Are we all positive that the Earth Kingdom is safe enough for me to return? I don't have to remind everyone what happened to my great-aunt three years ago?!" He imitated Hou-Ting's suffocation, and my jaw dropped in surprise. "May she rest in peace."
President Raiko reassured him, "Prince Wu, I assure you, Kuvira has pretty much stabilized the Earth Kingdom at this point."
Prince Wu remained skeptical, "Uh... define 'pretty much'."
My father explained, "Well, the roving bandits have mostly been dispersed."
"Mostly?" Wu grunted.
Lin chimed in, "Don't worry kid. The chances of you being assassinated are almost zero."
Prince Wu looked nervous, muttering, "Almost?"
Trying to ease his concerns, I smiled and assured him, "You'll be fine."
Wiping his sweat, Prince Wu attempted to be playful, "Oh, hey, pretty lady, are you going to protect me?"
Lin, with her arms crossed, corrected him, "You do know she's engaged, right?" She then looked at me, "Or was engaged, are you two even back together?"
"We never broke up!" I cried, clutching my father's robe for support.
My father gently patted my head as he addressed the others, "She's a bit sensitive with that topic."
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My father and I made our way back home to Air Temple Island, where a dinner was scheduled later that night to welcome Korra back from the South Pole. As we busily prepared dinner in the air temple's kitchen, Ikki and I couldn't hide our excitement. We were eagerly looking forward to celebrating Korra's return with a feast befitting her status as the Avatar.
As we chopped vegetables and stirred pots, Ikki couldn't contain her enthusiasm, "I can't believe Korra is finally coming back! I've missed her so much," she exclaimed with her eyes gleaming.
"I know, right? It's going to be an good night," I replied, trying to hide my nerves. I had the important task of preparing the main course, and the pressure was getting to me.
Sensing my unease, Ikki placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder, "Don't worry, you've got this! Your cooking is amazing," she encouraged. "And I'm here to help!"
"You're so sweet, Ikki." With determination, I continued to cook, hoping to impress everyone, especially Korra.
Amid our excited chatter about Korra's return, Ikki turned to me with genuine interest, "Hey, how is your relationship with Iroh going?" she asked.
Chopping onions, I couldn't help but let my emotions take over. Tears mixed with the onions as I replied, "Why does everyone keep asking me that question?"
"Fara, are you okay?" Ikki asked with concern.
I tried to mask my emotions, "Yeah, yeah, it's just the onions." I half-lied, feeling overwhelmed.
"I'm just gonna...take this." Ikki took the knife from me and began cutting the onions herself.
With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she said, "Why are you so sad, Fara?"
Gathering my thoughts, I confessed, "Well, you know what's been going on with Iroh and me. He's been focused on work, and I've been here for the past few months. It was just difficult being in the Fire Nation by myself most of the time. I love Zuko, of course, but it's been hard seeing him age and forget things, it makes me so sad. He reminds me so much of Iroh, so sweet and loving. I missed my family too. Iroh and I agreed that we were still together, but we needed to figure out what we wanted in life. But now everyone is bringing it back to my attention, and now I feel as though that we actually broke up because it seems like it, we just have never discussed it."
Suddenly, Ikki began to cry as well.
"Oh, Ikki, I didn't know this would affecte you so much."
"It's not you," she said, tears streaming down her face, "It's the onions!"
I shot her a sarcastic look, "Thanks for listening."
Ikki wiped her tears and became somewhat serious, "All jokes aside, what do you mean you're not together? Iroh always surprises you with thoughtful gifts and letters to show that he's thinking about you. You guys talk on the radio four times a week. You're telling me you have doubts?"
I paused, reflecting on what Ikki said.
"Iroh's a nice dude. Seriously. And he loves you...like a lot and you know that, you're just listening to what the reporters are saying and the news and it's getting to you."
I smiled warmly at Ikki, "This is why you're my favorite sister." I kissed her cheek. "I love you so much, thank you."
Ikki gushed lightly, "Aw, shucks."
As the sun began to set, the air temple was abuzz with excitement. The decorations were in place, and the aroma of delicious food filled the air. All our friends and family were all gathered around the temple.
As the time approached, Ikki and I put the finishing touches on the dishes. My mom tasted the dish and praised us, "You guys nailed it. Thank you so much for making dinner."
Ikki and I low-fived each other.
At the dining area, three groups had formed: Raiko, his wife, and Prince Wu; Lin and Mako stood guard; and Asami was with my family and me.
Meelo chimed in, "When Korra gets here, I bet she's not even going to know who I am."
"Why is that?" I questioned.
"Because Meelo the boy has turned into Meelo the man!" He exclaimed.
Ikki and I exchanged unimpressed glances as she added, "Right. You're completely unrecognizable."
Asami played along with the playful banter, "I'm sure everyone will be impressed, Meelo. You've all grown so much since the last time Korra was here."
An Air Acolyte walked in, announcing, "There's a Southern Water Tribe ship pulling up to the dock!"
Perfectly synchronized, my siblings shouted. "Korra!"
My dad and I joined the others at the docks, waiting for Korra to arrive. Naga and Tonraq disembarked from their ship, and Ikki grasped my hand, excitement bubbling over.
Dad approached Tonraq; the two men shook hands. "Tonraq. It's good to have you back in the city. And everyone is excited to see the Avatar again."
Tonraq looked puzzled, "What do you mean? Isn't Korra already here?"
"No, we thought she was coming with you," I said, sharing in the confusion.
"Korra left the South Pole six months ago. She's written me letters. She said she was here in Republic City." Tonraq explained, worry etched on his face.
"I assure you, your daughter is not here." Dad said.
Ikki and I exchanged glances, mirroring the concern that was evident on everyone's faces.
Tonraq grew more anxious, "Then where is she?" he asked, searching for answers.