"The Best of Friends"

An Avatarfic by Anonde

How this story began - about 2-3 weeks ago, while channel-surfing, I came across the Disney Channel which was showing the 'Fox and the Hound'. I've always loved its theme song and for some reason while listening to it - I felt that I had to write a story about Aang and Katara.

Prologue

I like you, Katara.

... I like you too, Aang.

We'll be friends forever no matter what, right?

... Of course, Aang.

... You should know it's not normal.

... What's not normal?

For an Avatar to fully realize himself at my age.

... Oh... What are you trying to tell me, Aang?

That even though the war is over, it isn't over for me.

... Aang, you're not only confusing me, you're scaring me a little.

... Sorry, Katara. I just wanted to explain to you why I have to leave.

Leave? Aang, what are you talking about?

I have to go on a journey. Alone. It's important.

Aang, I'm not going to let you go wherever alone and neither will Sokka and the others.

I'm really sorry, Katara, but I have to do this, and I can't have anyone with me.

Aang, no! Come back here!

I'm really sorry. Tell Sokka and everyone else I'm sorry too.

No, I'm not going to let you go!

I'll come back someday, I promise.

Aang!

---

For four years, all Katara, Sokka and others had of Aang were rumours and unconfirmed sightings of the young Avatar in various locations in the Earth Kingdom and on nearby islands. Feeling very much as their former nemesis Zuko had during his hunt for the Avatar, the Water Tribe siblings followed Aang's trail, always failing to find him or even to catch a glimpse of their friend. After a year of fruitless searching without an iota of success, Katara and Sokka had little choice but to finally accept with great reluctance that Aang simply didn't want to be found.

To be continued.