If there was one thing the crew of Zuko's ship had learned by now, it was that Zuko was never happy and Iroh was always happy or at least sociable. They knew to stay out of Zuko's way when he was in an especially foul mood, and that they could always go to Iroh if they needed anything.
So naturally it came as a shock to everyone, Zuko included, when one day Iroh was suddenly cold and quiet, keeping to himself and gently rebuffing any attempts to comfort him. It was only when one of the men brought up that day's date that Zuko realized why.
"I know what's bothering Uncle," he said. "Today's the anniversary of my cousin's death." He stood up. "Maybe I should be with him instead of out here...I don't know if I can make him feel better, but he shouldn't be alone."
Lieutenant Jee smiled.
"You really are a good man after all, Prince Zuko," he said, and Zuko blushed, looking away.
"I'll see you later."
*
Knock, knock.
"Please," Iroh said quietly, "I am not in the mood for visitors right now."
"Uncle, it's me."
"Prince Zuko." The retired general smiled a little at the sound of his nephew's voice, and got up to let him in.
"I forgot the date until now," Zuko confessed, looking down at his feet. "I'm sorry."
"You'd think it would get easier with time," Iroh said, "but every year it hurts more."
Zuko placed a hand on his uncle's shoulder.
"I miss him too." He felt Iroh tremble and awkwardly wrapped his arms around him, stiffening momentarily when his embrace was returned with a near-crushing bear hug. As he felt Iroh's tears wet the fabric of his robe, Zuko closed his eyes and let a few of his own slide down his cheeks.