“The swallow is a family oriented creature. When it mates, it mates for life.” He paused, and watched Katara’s brow furrow even deeper. “The swallow protects its family first and foremost. Now in the winter months, the male swallow reveals his selfishness. He takes off and cares for himself when it becomes too cold to fend off invaders and the frost makes it difficult to find food.”

The old man paused again, and found Katara’s face scrunched up in thought. “Now the she-swallow… She is a different creature all together. When it becomes so bitterly cold outside that the frost settles over her wings, she continues to fly. When the ground is covered in ice, she continues to struggle to find food for her family. No matter how she feels, no matter how much she may wish to give up and fly off like the male swallow, she never does. Although her heart may be torn and her wings may be tired, she continues to fight for her family.”

Katara shook her head slightly and the end of Iroh’s little tale, her lips curved into a humorless smile. “And if she has to choose between the swallow she wishes to mate and her family?” she asked softly, and Iroh squeezed her shoulder.

“The little swallow will always put her family’s happiness before her own.” ----"Eclipse" Chapter 22, Like The Swallow

I really liked this conversation between Iroh and Katara in this chapter. It was considerably deep, and very well written. I suggest this Fic to ANY Zutara fan!

EDIT: If your wondering why their so beat-up, just read the story, and you will know! and darnit! I can't draw Iroh! he gave me some trouble!
__________________
made in photoshop cs2
__________________

Katara & Iroh (C) Nickelodeon
"Eclipse" Storyline (C) though not officially... Sandra Evans on FanFiction.net