Coming Together

The Talk

Once they were out of Aang's home, he lead the way to the dining hall. They could smell the delicious food before they even walked through the doors. When they did slide the door open, every Acolyte on the island was present and seated at their own little tables. Over by the open kitchen the food was ready, but no one was eating. Katara looked up at the clock and it was a quarter after six. She assumes that their time to eat was six, so why had they not eaten or even begun, she questioned.

"I'm sorry I took so long everyone. Thank you for waiting." Aang said loud enough for everyone to hear, but not shouting. Everyone was then quiet and bowed their heads, Aang letting go of Katara's hands and putting them together in front of him, bowing his own head. Katara took the hint and bowed her head, folding her hands in front of her.

"We want to thank the spirits for the bountiful meal we are about to have. We are so very thankful that we have come together today safely to enjoy each other's company and to learn from one another. We ask that you please continue to bless our efforts as we reestablish a culture almost lost and forgotten. May the spirits be with all of us here as we endeavor to do what is right and what is best for this world." Aang finished and lowered his hands. There was an air of silence that was soon broken by people standing up and lining up by the kitchen to get their meal. Katara felt so out of place. She tugged on his arm.

"Does this happen at every meal?" She asked softly as he turned to her.

"Yes. We all need to be very spiritual in order for there to be airbenders again." He said with a soft smile. He looked at her and looked around. She stuck out. Everyone was wearing yellow and orange and she was in blue. Her hair was down while all the woman had their hair in buns or braids. Everyone in the room was as pale as he was, and she was in deep contrast with her beautiful olive skin tone. He felt that she didn't quite feel at home.

"I guess I have a lot to learn." She said softly as he led her into the line forming by the kitchen.

"Don't worry. You don't have to learn if you don't want to." He said with a smile took her hand.

They followed the line near the back and grabbed bowls when it was their turn, grabbing rice and topping it with a variety of steamed vegetables and meat free sauces ranging from spicy to sweet. When they had gotten their food Aang led them to their table which was essentially a place in the floor dug out and table filling the hole so you could sit on the edge of the hole. They sat and the Acolytes didn't join them at their little table, leaving them alone. When Katara looked around no one was staring, but when she did catch someone's eyes they merely smiled to her and went about their business. This put her at ease, knowing that the other Acolytes did not mind her company. With a soft sigh she was able to relax and eat her dinner. They ate in silence, Katara actually enjoying the air nomad food more than she had expected. Eventually the dining hall began to clear out and the area around them was empty. She felt she could speak freely.

"Something on your mind?" He asked and he put down his chopsticks, taking a swig of tea.

"You know me well." She said with a soft smile. He nodded and put down his cup.

"I do. Yet I still need to know you more... you know, you can say anything here. They know you are important to me."

"I know, but this is a private matter." She said softly.

"What is it?"

"It's about that kiss earlier." She said quietly. He blushed and rubbed the back of his neck.