News quickly spread of the marriage across the world from nation to nation. For some it was impossible to believe due to the underlying circumstances of war. The few who received more personalized invitations knew it just might be. The official guest list consisted of the following: Toph, Aang, Smellerbee, Ty Lee, Suki, Longshot, Mai, The Duke, Jet, King Bumi, the Cabbage Merchant, June, Pipsqueak, Chief Arnook, The Boulder, and many others the two had known for years or met during their travels. They chose to not send one to Sokka but expected him to make an appearance. Of course, they would be ready for anything. Welcoming all guests with open arms their security would still be tight and on edge. Royal staff members scurried through the palace walls for days perfecting each detail of the ceremony that would take place that Saturday. With majority of the planning already taken care of by others, the couple could only wait for that suspenseful moment.
Sokka's POV:
Rumors spread throughout the nation, leaving Sokka in suspense for the teens' return. On Wednesday morning their boat was finally spotted offshore. Soldiers swarmed the icy beach eager for their landfall. There were so many questions he had but chose not to pester them until their arrival to his chamber. The three were escorted inside by a group of soldiers, faces filled with eager excitement. Standing from his seat he greeted them all, "Welcome back! Now let's see what you all have gathered for me..."
The young girl of the trio stepped forward, shaky hands offering over a piece of paper. Observing the document anger filled his eyes, now realizing the horrible rumors were true.
"There is no talk of war, the nation seems to be at peace... They have quickly rebuilt the royal city... And also, your sister is set to marry Fire Lord Zuko this Saturday... All are welcome from all nations but there security will be right and they are still searching for you..."
Shaky hands passed the document back to them, forcing an appreciative smile, "Thank you all for your brave efforts..."
The three were escorted outside, leaving Sokka alone to his thoughts. This is what he had always feared of. He had a feeling for some time now that there was something greater brewing between the two. This was truly one of his worsg nightmares. He was certain such an act would convince his allies to step back from the idea of war.
Sokka knew this was all in his own hands now. Exiting the chambers he gathered a small bag of supplies, now dressed in a dark cloak. Without any word to others he left the bunker, heart set on returning to the Fire Nation one last time. His time for action was running thin and he had to act fast.
Leaving shore he chose to drift off into sleep, knowing these next few days would require every ounce of energy. A few hours passed before an eerily familiar voice woke him. Quickly on edge with blade in hand his eyes shot open, leaning over the edge of the boat to see the water had turned a bright glowing shade of blue. Sokka...
Quickly turning around, the ghostly image of his first love Yue appeared by his side. Tears forming in his eyes he reached his hand out to her, finding he was able to touch her icy skin.
"Yue... I-"
"Shh..." A single finger pressed to his lips he sat wide-eyed, almost convincing himself he was still sleeping and this was all just a sick dream."
"Sokka... Your heart is tainted, and your intentions are blinded by this. You are making a mistake... She's happy Sokka, the world is happy... You will never find your revenge. It is time for you to open your eyes and indulge in this hope for peace."
Her icy hand grazed his forehead, an array of images soon flashing before his eyes: Katara's fear during their attack, her anger during the imprisonment, the smile staining her face seeing Zuko come for her, the couples heartwarming visit to the Crystal Catacombs, Katara's sadness wondering how Sokka could betray her, and finally the image of his sister proudly wearing their nations attire and mothers necklace addressing a nation that could so easily reject her.
Snapping out of the trance tears rolled down his face. Yue gave him a few moments before pleading.
"Do you see now, my love? This world holds so much beauty and love that you are too blinded to see... Make the right decision..."
Yue leaned over, placing a gentle kiss on his lips before disappearing into the darkness of the night.