The Mistress of the Fire Lord

Chapter 17 - It's A New Dawn, It's A New Day It's A New Life

Three years had passed since the last time I saw the Fire Lord, and I had not forgotten about him a day. At least I could keep myself busy enough to make the pain bearable, and I was the closest I happy I could get.

I was teaching waterbending to some kids, and showing off a little, when I saw a familiar face watching me. I was confused and overjoyed. 

After dispensing my students, I ran straight to the man's arms:

-- Nerui!! -- I yelled -- what are you doing here? 

-- I'll tell you later, first tell me: how have you been? 

-- Well, my life has changed completely! I am a teacher now, can you believe it? I teach basic water bending techniques to the kids and advanced techniques to our warriors. I also work as a healer when I'm not teaching, so I am always busy - but don't worry, I still have a couple hours before going to my shift. And you, how have you been?

-- I got your previous job. I wish I could say I've never imagined you would leave, but that would be a lie. Dear Karima, what did you get yourself into? 

-- You… know what happened!? 

-- After three years serving the Fire Lord, specially when he's so miserable, you end up knowing all his secrets. Don't worry, darling, your secret is safe with me.

-- I am sorry, Nerui. I forgot my place.

-- Don't be. He's really hellish hot, who could resist that? If he had interest in me, my relationship with Shinsou would definitely be in trouble, even with you being my friend. Unfortunately, there's only one person he wants, and it's not me -- he revealed, pointing towards me. 

-- Nerui -- I demanded, now serious --, what brings you here? 

-- I came to ask a favour to your chieftain. It's urgent, and a letter would not suffice.

-- And why didn't he send an ambassador? Were you promoted? 

He laughed 

-- No. You don't know what day was yesterday, right? 

-- No…? -- I quite asked while we strolled around the tribe.

-- It was the four year anniversary of your depart. The Fire Lord wants to be left alone when this day approaches. I guess he just wanted to get rid of me, as last year I kind of annoyed him just a little to avoid him being alone while so sad. 

I smiled. It was typical of Nerui, always wanting to take care of everyone. 

Four years without him. And he's still my first thought when I wake up. I sighed. 

-- You miss him, right? 

-- I do -- I didn't want to go deeper into those thoughts and feelings, and I was saved by a sight. -- Oh, it's there that you can you find the chieftain. I hope your audience goes well. 

-- I also hope so. Thank you, Karima. It was great seeing you again. 

-- It was great seeing you too. I missed you -- I said while embraced him. 

Then, we said our goodbyes. 

It was only when I arrived home that I noticed that he didn't tell me what favour he had to ask. 

Well it was not my problem and I had to get ready to my shift. The Fire Nation's issues were not my issues anymore.

***

I arrived for my shift later on. There wasn't much going on there. Someone with a cold, a bender who got hurt during practice… Nothing unusual so far.