A Love United

by Audrie the Clever Girl

Fire Lord Zuko, his wife lost to him in child birth, is ruling a nation, raising a daughter, and ensuring the United Republic of Nations Project gets off the ground. Luckily he doesn't have to do it alone. Sokka, his most trusted adviser, is there to help. They soon discover that their bond is far beyond that of friends and allies. [Zukka] [Warning in A/N]

1. Chapter 1

A Unite Love is a project spearheaded by carmen_sandyeggo and edited by myself. I have permission to post this story on her behalf. We want you all to know that this story is rated M for several reasons. There will be slash sex, language, and potential risque situations. If any of these things bother you please know this story is not for you, and you should head back now. If, dear reader, you decided to stick around, we hope you enjoy reading this as much as we enjoyed writing it.

As a disclaimer, we do not own Avatar the Last Air Bender/Legend of Korra.

CHAPTER ONE

Zuko

Sokka is my best friend. Sure, we got off on a rocky start—actually, a very rocky start. But after I changed for the better, he and the rest of gang have been a part of my life. They are a part of my family. Once the war was over and Fire Lord Ozai was thrown in prison, Sokka became my right hand man in all of my political trials. I couldn't have asked for a better man to help me carve a new path for my Nation. He's sacrificed so much. Not only did he leave home, but Katara and Aang as well. He moved into the palace, has taken on every task I've given him, travels constantly, and still somehow manages to keep me level headed. Especially when Mai passed… and every day since then.

I wake up to the sun filtering through the sheer curtains around my four poster bed. I stretch my arms over my head and let out a long yawn. There is a small bundle near me, Izumi. She must have snuck into my room in the middle of the night. I kiss her forehead and let her sleep a little longer.

I step out on the balcony for my morning mediation. I definitely needed to clear my mind and prepare for the event of the coming week. The whole gang was going to be here in a few hours for political negotiations. Their stay at the palace would be jammed pack with meeting after meeting from proposals to bill signings. No leisure time. What a shame. As much as I want to finish the business of the United Republic of Republic City, I wanted to spend time with everyone, catching up. Our lives are busy and always changing.

Katara and Aang were bringing their kids for the trip. Their son Bumi is about Izumi's age, or maybe a year older, and their daughter Kya is just a year younger than Izumi. Katara was also pregnant. I don't see why she wanted to make the trip. She could go into labor any day. It must be difficult, raising a family while establishing peace, order, and unity throughout the world. On a flying Bison nonetheless, and it was just the two of them! Two children, being pregnant, traveling, meetings, no privacy, no baby sitter, and juggling Avatar duties by yourself is not my idea of fun.

I remember the first few months with Izumi. Sleepless nights, feedings, hourly diaper changes. Even in her toddler years- chasing her around, teaching her to walk and eat on her own, and dodging her fire bending whenever she threw a tantrum. I could barely keep up. Thankfully Uncle and Sokka really help me out with raising her. Sometimes I feel conflicted with them taking on the responsibilities of raising her, but I preferred them caring for her out of love rather than having servants raise her out of a sense of duty. I wasn't going to subject servants with no bending to a nearly inconsolable child who spat fire when she was angry. I love her to death, but Spirits she's work. Uncle had all the fun of teaching Izumi, and Sokka gave her so much attention, they never seemed to mind her temper tantrums.

I can't forget, Toph's schedule is just as demanding as the rest of ours. She's in the process of opening a Metal Bending School in Republic City, and soon to become the Chief of Police.

It's hard to believe how far we've come since the 100 Year War. Maybe…I hope, after we're done with business, we all can all take a vacation. Sokka's been talking my ear off about it for months now. Day in and out it's the same: office, courts, and diplomatic trips to other nations and their states. It's been busy, and I've neglected my time with Izumi. It's not fair to her, but luckily she'll get to spend some time with her cousins this week. I know she'll love Katara's baby bump. I can't even begin count how many times Izumi has asked me for a sibling. It breaks my heart every time. It's hard for her to not have a mother…

"Good Morning Sweetheart" I say to Izumi as I hear her footsteps.

"Good Morning Daddy…Are you done meditating?" She asks me, rubbing her eye.

I turn to her. "I am. Did you sleep well?"

She looked at the ground and hesitated for a moment. "Kinda. I had a bad dream, so I came in and slept better."

I frown and think, a bad dream? Kneeling down I put my hand on her shoulder. "I'm sorry sweetie. Do you want to tell me about it?"

"I don't remember…" She says hesitantly. There's something she's not telling me. I don't know why she wouldn't tell me.

I look in her golden eyes, so much like her mother's, and place my hand on her cheek. "Hmm…Alright. Well, if you remember, you can tell me if you want. Right now though we should probably get ready for your Aunts' and Uncle's arrival to the palace. Bumi and Kya are coming too, and I'm sure they can't wait to run around and play with you."

A smile splits her face and she jumps in the air with excitement. "Yay! It's been forever since I've seen them. Are they going to stay long enough for my birthday?"

Izumi was turning five this year. Uncle planned the surprise birthday party for her. He invited a couple of kids from her bending class, ordered a cake, had the chef prepare a menu designed for the children, and had planned for a separate area to host all of the parents. Sokka and I had bought all of her gifts over the course of several months. We had bought gifts in ones and twos, sometimes having to sneak out while she was in class do so. This was also going to be a good opportunity to enjoy some much needed time with my daughter.

"Ahhh, I don't know. The adults are going to be pretty busy this week. We'll be lucky if they are able to stay an extra day." I rub the back of my neck, but try to look convincing. The main reason the meetings had been scheduled for this particular week was so everyone could be there for her party, but telling her that would ruin the surprise.

"Awwww…I really want them to stay for my birthday…" She frowned and slumped over a little.

I smile and give her some reassurance. "I know honey, but let's make the most of their visit. Then we'll see about them staying another day. For now, let's go get ready. They'll be here soon, and it would be rude to keep them waiting."

"Ok!" Izumi, her spirit lifted, sprints to her room to get ready.

I skip out on my morning training to get ready. I'm too excited and anxious to see them. Before heading to the shower I set out my robes on the settee. While I'm washing my hair, I hear my bathroom door slam open. Someone clomps in on heavy feet.

"Zuko!" It was none other than Sokka.

"God damn it Sokka! Do you know how to KNOCK?!" I try to cover myself as best as I can.

"Dude come on and hurry up, everyone is r- are you really trying to cover yourself up? You act like I don't know what you look like under all that soap."

"Well I like to be modest. Unlike YOU…What are you doing up so early anyway?"

"I was too excited to sleep last night so I prepped everything myself. I want the guys' stay to be perfect and as comfortable as possible"

"I'm sure that won't be a problem. Now would you get out of here!"

"Alriiight alriiight. I'm going." Finally! I turn back to my shower when I hear Sokka say "Nice butt by the way." I feel my face get hot and groan in embarrassment.

There is a knock at my door, immediately followed by my servant Dezrah asking to enter. I tell him to come in and ask what he needs.

"A flying bison is approaching, as well as a few Earth Kingdom carts. Avatar Aang, Master Katara and Miss Toph Beifong will be here within the next few minutes."

"Already? Hmph. I guess they're just as anxious to get here just as we are to receive them. Ok. I'll be there soon. And Dezrah, Miss Toph Beifong is to be addresses at Chief Beifong."

"Yes, Fire Lord, my apologies. Sir, do you need any assistance?" Dezrah reaches for my hair.

"No. I can do this. Please see if Izumi is ready. I want her with me to greet everyone in the main yard."

Dezrah bows deeply and leaves. Hmph, help with my hair. No one ever touches my hair, not unless I want them to.

I see Uncle holding Izumi's hand at the entry to the main yard. Sokka is fussing over a braid that's come undone. I stop and take in the scene for a moment. I have so much to be grateful for. Uncle is the closest resemblance to a father that I have ever really had, and I couldn't have had wished for better. Sokka...the way he is with Izumi, sometimes I wonder if he's her father. Not that I'm jealous of their relationship. On the contrary I welcome and encourage it. It's nice to see how she is with him. He'd be a great father. It's unfortunate that he and Suki never made it past their teenage romance, otherwise he might have had a few of his own.

Izumi is turned around and waving her arm at me. "Hurry Daddy, they're about to pull up!"

When I'm standing by them Izumi grabs my hand, looking out at our arriving company. I look over at Sokka and smile. I appreciate his love and commitment to Izumi. I feel Uncle looking at me with a suspicious gaze. "What is it Uncle?"

He pauses for a moment. "Nothing nephew," A small smile tugs at the corner of his mouth, and puts a hand on my shoulder. "I'm just admiring you and everything you have here. I'm very proud of you. That, and I'm excited for this tea that Toph has for me from Ba Sing Se."

Of course you are, Uncle. The Earth Kingdom carts pull up next to the stairway leading to the palace. Appa lands just a few feet away from the carts. I make my way down the stairs, Izumi in hand, when I see Toph step out of her cart. What the hell. She's pregnant?

Sokka

Zuko, he used to make my blood boil and I remember times when I wanted to smash his head with my trusty ol' boomerang. Actually, there are still times like that. He's always so well groomed, never a hair out of place, even when he's training or playing with Izumi. Then there I am, always managing to look like hell after a good sparring session, or after I wake up, or after I eat. He's just so perfect! Ah! But he's my best friend. He has been for a long time now. It's weird how that happens. Wanting to kill each other one day, and then in what seems like a blink of an eye I'm a Chief Advisor to the Fire Lord.

I don't regret leaving home to live in the palace. There are so many things to be seen, and so much to learn. I used to think that my village was my entire life. Living in the Fire Nation Capital has opened so many doors for me. I travel all the time, all over the world. Not that I didn't do that with Aang and Katara back in the day, but things were a little different back then. I never really got to see how beautiful the world was. I have Zuko to thank. He presented me with my current position. Although he's grateful for my counsel, I'm the one who is truly indebted to him.

For all the traveling I do though, I think the best place in the world, second only to the towering, clear-blue glaciers of the South Pole, is the Central Royal Garden. It's reserved for the Fire Lord and his close friends and family. Izumi and I play there all the time, especially in the summer. We feed turtleducks together with her uncle, General Iroh. I taught her how to swim in one of the ponds, even when the attendants shouted at me that the Crown Princess should be swimming in a clean pool not a muck filled puddle. They all need to drink some Cactus Juice and relax in my opinion. She's a little girl before she is a princess. I could spoil her till she's rotten, and it still wouldn't be enough. I love her like she's my own kid.

Her mother, Mai, died in child birth. I had never seen Zuko so out of shape. I knew he would need help. Despite his maturity, he has always been hard headed. I bullied him into letting me take a few shifts watching her and feeding her. There were plenty of servants who would have done the job well enough now that I think back on it, but she just seemed so small and fragile that we never wanted her out of the site of family. After a while the feelings of pity I had for her, the reason I said I was so willing to help with a brand new baby that did nothing but eat, poop, and sleep, turned into love.

I walked down the hall to Zuko's chambers. I had been up since before sun rise preparing for my Sister's arrival. She was pregnant again, and I needed to make sure the staff and kitchen were ready for the monster she would be. There were more pillows in her room than any one person could ever use. The kitchen needed to make sure they had enough sea weed and giant squid to make soup that Katara was no doubt going to be eating by the trough full. I feel bad for Aang sometimes. Two kids in single digits and another on the way while trying to be the Avatar and a husband to my sister. Whew! Toph was going to be showing up today too, and she had sent a messenger hawk with some particulars. Most of them I ignored. Like hell I was going to get her a servant to dress up as a flying lemur and follow her around with a bowl of fireberry fruit salad. She also asked for her room to have a view. I'm happy her sense of humor hasn't gone with her new position as Police Chief of Republic City.

Ah Republic City! It was the main reason for everyone's visit. The city was in its infancy, and there was a lot of shop talk that needed to happen to make sure it didn't crumble. Leisure was not on the schedule for the next week.

Izumi's birthday was coming up though, and it was going to be a great party. I thought back to the pile of presents I had in my closet that Zuko and I had started stock piling months ago. She was going to be so excited. I nodded absentmindedly at guards as I passed, lost in thought about how I was going to teach her how to use a boomerang and a sling.

I wasn't going to get to spend as much time with her as I normally do while I'm back from business trips. At least she'll have Bumi and Kya to play with. They are all pretty close in age. Although I want to play with them too! The last time I got to see the kids Bumi had just turned three and Kya wasn't more than a floppy new born. I wish I had been more present in their lives. They were my blood, but Aang and Katara were always busy moving around. Katara a Master and Aang trying to rebuild the Air Nomad Culture from nothing. Besides, my place is here.

I see Izumi running down the hall toward her room. She looks excited, so Zuko must have told her about the kids coming on the trip. I smile and slip behind a pillar before she notices me. At the last moment I'm going to jump out and surprise her, swoop her up, and toss her in the air. It takes longer than it should to hear her footsteps though, so I peek around the pillar. She's not there.

"That's weird." I mumble.

"What's weird Uncle Sokka?" A small voice whispers next to me.

"AHHHHH!" I fall over, arms flailing.

Izumi is squatted next to me, crying from trying not to laugh. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, you just surprised me is all."

She can't hold off her laughter anymore.

"Oh you're gonna laugh at me are you! I'll give you something to laugh about." I start tickling her sides. It should be noted that Izumi is a naturally gifted fire bender, but she is still in training and sometimes accidents happen. Usually when she's upset, or mad, or dying from a fit of giggling…I know this, but sometimes I forget. Izumi's flailing arms and legs start shooting off small sparks.

I stop tickling her when I smell something smoking.

"Uncle Sokka!" Izurmi points at the hem of my shirt.

"Ahhhh, put it out put it out!" I jump and pat the fabric trying not to burn myself. With a sigh of relief I look over at Izumi, she looks like she is about to cry real tears this time. "Hey kiddo it's okay," I smile at her. "It was my fault. Really. Come here." I open my arms for a hug and she runs and jumps into them. Setting her down I pat her head. "Now go get ready to greet everyone, I'm going to make sure your dad is ready."

She nods and speeds off down the hall again.

The guard lets me into Zuko's room, and I hear the shower going.

"ZUKO!" I shout, slamming the bathroom door open. I know it will make him mad to barge in on his privacy, but I can't help it. When he puts on his Fire Lord persona he's always so composed, and what can I say, I like to ruffle feathers.

"God damn it Sokka! Do you know how to KNOCK?!" Zuko tries to cover himself with his hands as best he can.

"Dude come on and hurry up, everyone is r- are you really trying to cover yourself up? You act like I don't know what you look like under all that soap." I laugh and wink at him, but I think he's too preoccupied with trying to cover himself up to notice.

"Well I like to be modest. Unlike YOU…What are you doing up so early anyway?" Hey I'm modest, most of the time.

"I was too excited to sleep last night so I prepped everything myself. I want the guys' stay to be perfect and as comfortable as possible" I really was nervous for everyone to show up. I had been awake for hours thinking about all the things that needed to get done, and then unable to take it anymore I found myself awake hours before I would normally be. Like I said, I had been up before the sun.

"I'm sure that won't be a problem. Now would you get out of here!" So easy to fluster.

"Alriiight alriiight. I'm going." I walk to the bathroom door and hover there for a moment. Zuko turns back to his shower, thinking I've left. "Nice butt by the way!" I then hustle my ass out of the bathroom in case he decides to get all roar fire breath, anger, spoiled prince on me. Haha worth it.

We are all at the Main Entrance before Zuko. Izumi and I had met there at the same time, having heard that a flying bison could be spotted in the distance. We were both excited and a little nervous. Izumi because she was going to have new play mates, ones that treated her like a normal girl and not just the Crown Princess. Me because my baby sister was pregnant and traveling.

Izumi looked like she had ran most of the way there, her braided hair had come undone and was sticking out at crazy angles.

General Iroh showed up not much later and he held Izumi's hand as I messed with her hair. She wouldn't keep still otherwise. I had chased her about trying to get her to let me fix it. "Hey I'm great with hair, look at mine!"

"Nu-uh. I don't want to!" she giggled and ran, making it worse.

I was fastening the elastic to hold her braid in place when Zuko made his appearance. Regal in Fire Lord robes, he was both elegant and powerful. Something that I always found mesmerizing.

"Hurry Daddy, they're about to pull up!" Izumi waves frantically, and he comes over to take her hand. Zuko looks at me and I see him smile. It's a smile that reaches his eyes, and I feel my cheeks warm up.

I busy myself talking to the attendants who are going to unload the bags and get everyone settled in their rooms. I want to make sure it's perfect, and for some reason I need a little bit of space from Zuko. Something about when he looks at me that way…well it makes my chest get tight and I feel like I can't get a good breath.

Toph is the first one I see, and I am about to run to give her a hug and start the usual banter but something stops me short.

"You're pregnant!?"

Zuko

I must've looked pretty stupid with my jaw practically touching the ground. Could I really be seeing Toph Beifong with a rounded belly? Toph is pregnant?! Who did she- why didn't she say-WHAT?! It was difficult to keep composed. The only thing that prevented me from overreacting and swearing was Izumi's presence.

"You're pregnant!?" Sokka sputters out, breaking me away from my thoughts. Sokka and I had the same look on our faces, and I couldn't have been more right about looking stupid.

"Daddy Daddy! You didn't tell me Auntie Toph was pregnant too!" Izumi exclaims.

"I..I didn't know either sweetheart. Come on, let's go greet your Aunt. Sokka come on. Sokka. Sokka. SOKKA! Quit staring and let's go!" I'm being pulled by Izumi and I'm pulling Sokka so we're all walking down the steps. Uncle is chuckling to himself, and I look back to see him shaking his head. Our reactions must be entertaining to him.

Izumi let go of my hand to run to Toph, giving her a gentle hug around her belly. "Auntie Toph! Me and Daddy are so happy to see you. How come you didn't tell Daddy you were having a baby? Aunt Katara is going to have her baby soon! When are you having yours? Huh, huh, huh?!" I can see Toph getting a little overwhelmed.

"Izumi, please. Give her a moment to breathe." I tell her.

"It's alright. She's a kid. Kids have a lot of questions." Toph says.

Toph's belly is perfectly round; she can't be too far behind Katara by my guess. I look from Toph's baby bump and she's already got me fixed with an annoyed expression. Fuck it. I'm asking. "Well…since we're on the subject. Why—"

She cuts me off with a raised hand. "Look, I know this is a huge shock for you guys, so let me lay out the basics. First off, yes you guys, I am pregnant, not fat. Second, I'm due in the early Fall. Third, the father is not in the picture. And Lastly, I didn't tell anyone. Not even my parents. So don't feel like I left you out of the loop on purpose."

Sokka and I exchange confused looks before, finally, Sokka speaks up. "What do you mean the dad isn't in the picture? And why haven't you told your parents? You kinda didn't tell anyone on purpose…what gives?"

Toph lowers her head, pinches the bridge of her nose and sighs. "Look you guys, I—ugh. I met someone, we were a thing for a while, and then we broke up. I'm pregnant with his kid and I don't want him in our lives. I'm fine. I didn't tell anyone because honestly, I've just been so busy. So…Surprise!"

Toph really isn't the type of person to get emotionally attached. I still think it would be unfortunate for her child not to grow up with a father. I see how it is on Izumi without her mother. But, Toph will do things her own way no matter what. She always has and always will.

Sokka walks to Toph and places his hand on her shoulder. "Whatever you think is best for you and your kid, we support you. We just want to make sure that you're okay, and that we don't need to go beat up some jerk. That's all. We're here for you and Little Beifong. Right Zuko?"

"Yes of course! Whatever you need, say the word and you got it." Toph smiles and pulls Sokka in for a hug. "Thanks you guys. I knew you would understand. Come in here Zuko."

"Oh uh—" A large boulder comes from behind shoves me into their open arms. They catch me and hug it out. This is uncomfortable… I feel something wrap around my waist, only to find Izumi hugging the three of us. She lets go and looks up with her bright golden eyes. "Daddy? Why don't we give my old baby stuff to Auntie Toph? I don't need any of it anymore now that I'm a big girl."

Such a sweet child. She really is too sweet for her own good. She definitely did not get that from me. Generosity was a specialty that came from Sokka. He really is making an impact on her life. I smile at Izumi and grab her hand.

"Izumi that's a great idea! How 'bout it Toph? You think we can ship you some stuff for Little Beifong?" Sokka says.

"Sounds good to me sparky! I haven't done much baby shopping come to think of it. I'm completely unprepared." Toph kneels down to Izumi and grabs her hand. "Thank you Izumi. You're one sweet girl. I guess your Dad isn't spoiling you rotten after all." She gives her a wink and hugs her briefly.

"Hey! I'm not too terrible of a Father, okay? And besides, I can't take all the credit."

"Yea, you're probably right. Even Sokka surprised me with how well he's raising her." She grins mischievously.

"Really Toph?! Give me a little credit would you?" Sokka exclaims.

Uncle finally makes it down to the cart and opens his arms to greet Toph. "Welcome Chief Beifong. It's been a long, long time since I've last seen you. And you're all grown up. And out" He chuckles.

Toph laughs, "and so have you!" She slaps the side of his gut, and gives Uncle a sincere hug.

When I look for Aang and Katara, who are sliding down from Appa's saddle, I reach to grab Izumi, but she isn't there. I look toward the Bison once more and see Izumi on Sokka's back, who's sprinting toward Aang and Katara. I hear them yell with excitement, arms waving in the air. Izumi jumps from Sokka's back and hurtling into Aang's chest. He catches her and falls back, laughing. Sokka grabs Katara, lifts her from the ground, and spins her around once or twice. He looks so happy to see his sister. He bends over and rubs Katara's belly. Izumi see's Bumi and Kya and bolts after them.

Toph has Uncle's arm looped with hers and shoves the other through mine, yanking me toward everyone else. "Hey Twinkletoes. It's good to see ya." Toph says to Aang. He whips his head to Toph and plasters on the biggest smile.

"TOPH! You're pregnant?! Congratulations! Who's the lucky guy?!"

"The not so lucky guy is out of the picture, and I prefer it that way. Gotta pick up my own weight ya know?"

Aang looks a little taken back but shrugs. "Sure, whatever works for you. It's so good to see you!" He tries to give her a hug, but she stops him with a raised boulder to the face. Ouch.

"Did someone say Toph was pregna—Oh, Toph! You're glowing! How much time do you have left before you're due?" Katara asks. The girls begin talking, and from the looks of it, they look like they're…bonding?

After a while, we find ourselves headed back to the palace. The kids are running around us in circles laughing and chasing each other. The servants unloaded trunks and bags of luggage and towed them to their designated rooms. Dezrah walks up to us and bows deeply, in respect for my guests. "Welcome to the Fire Nation Palace. Avatar Aang, Master Katara, and Chief Beifong, it is a great honor to have you here. Please, join us in the great hall for our mid-day meal."

"Yes! I'm starving!" Sokka says. "I hope you guys like the food. I've been planning for days. Katara, I made sure we imported lots of sea weed and giant squid for you. Aang, I didn't forget your vegetarian meals. I know the Chef has something special for you that I think you'll enjoy. And Toph…Well, you never were really picky before. But since you're pregnant I don't know if you want anything in particular."

Toph shook her head. "Thanks but I'm good. My diet hasn't changed much since I got knocked up." We all stand there quietly avoiding eye contact with each other. "What? Why don't we just call it how we see it and just say what it is?"

Uncle breaks the ice. "Toph? Did you bring that tea I asked you about?" Toph snaps her fingers and a timid footman sprints to her side and. He hands her a bag. Toph gives the tea to Uncle, and he wastes no time opening it to take a deep whiff from the bag. He rolls his eyes to the back of his head. We all take our seats, but he leaves us for the kitchen tea in hand.

"Thank you all for making time in your very busy schedules. I understand it must have been difficult to make it here, but I appreciate it. This week is going to be busy with the finalizations of United Republic. I hate to say that we won't be able to have much leisure time. We should still be able to enjoy each other's company when we break away for meals and when we're tending to the children. Uncle Iroh was generous enough to offer his assistance in supervising the children while we tackle our duties. Right now we're ahead of schedule, so I think it's safe to say that once we're finished with our meals, you all can get settled into your rooms before tonight's first meeting." I dislike being so formal and making business a priority with my friends, but I know if we don't get started soon, this would never get done. It would be delayed for several more months, putting us past our set goal. I hate missing deadlines.

Everyone seemed to agree on today's schedule—which is a relief. Our first agreement. One down…so many more to go. From the corner of my eye I notice Sokka is looking at me. I glance towards him to see what he may be thinking. He looks like he's in a slight trance. Peaceful, almost. I feel my cheeks get a little flushed before Sokka sees me staring back and looks away. Looking away myself, I join into conversation as Uncle serves everyone tea. What are you doing Zuko?

Sokka

Before we eat lunch we all sit in one of the smaller dining rooms around a large round table, while General Iroh serves us tea. Izumi, Bumi and Kya are on the other side of the hall running around tables and chairs, having fun only like kids can. I wish that Katara and I had more of a childhood like that, but I'm glad her children will not have their youth interrupted by war. I momentarily wonder what my children would have been like if Suki and I had stayed together, but the thought doesn't stick. Izumi might be the closest thing to a daughter I'll ever have. I smile at that. I would be lucky if I could ever produce something half as adorable as she is.

I look over to Zuko, he is a few seats away and I have the perfect view of him. More and more often I catch myself studying him, he looks so confident but in a quiet way. I've always been boisterous, so how he manages to convey so much without doing anything is a puzzle. I can't help myself with puzzles, I have to solve them. I realize I've been zoning out and when my vision comes back into focus I'm looking into Zuko's sharp gaze. His face flushes slightly, and I clear my throat and look away. I'm a little embarrassed to be caught staring.

Course after course of food is brought to the table. I was right, Katara basically inhaled one bowl of soup after the other.

"This is just as good as Gran used to make!" She raves between bites. Aang looks like he's about to throw up from the smell. It's pungent, to put it nicely.

Everyone laughs together, and we catch up with one another. It's been too long, and the time we have together, to really just be us, is limited. This whole week is going to be a nightmare. I know I'm going to spend a lot more time inside around a planning table than I would like. The weather was going to be beautiful and I was going to be in a hot stuffy room trying to plan out a city with my pregnant sister, Spirits help us all, and an equally pregnant Toph.

"If you'll excuse me," Zuko stood up from the table and bowed to all of us. "I don't mean to run out, please stay as long as you like. I have to prepare some things for tonight. I hope you get settled, I'm very happy to see you all." And with a smile, one reserved for his friends and family, Zuko left them.

"I think that's probably our cue as well," Toph rubbed her belly and let out a burp. Just as unlady like as always. "So, where's this room with a view I asked for?"

I let attendants escort Toph to her room, and I walked with Aang and Katara. The children tailed behind us.

"So how have things been?" Aang tosses and arm around my shoulders. He's as tall as I am, and has been for a while, but it throws me off every time. Sometimes I still see him as that 12 year old boy we found who could only think about penguin sledding even after he had found out he had been frozen for a hundred years.

"Uh, things are good." I wasn't really sure how to answer his question. There seemed to be a deeper meaning than I was catching on to. "I get to travel a lot. I got to go to Kiyoshi once about half a year ago. They have managed to restore the town for the most part. Zuko sent me to make sure the master carpenter and architect he had employed was working out. I think he provided them with funds to rebuild as well."

Aang nodded. "I was there not too long ago. It looks even better than it did before. The Fire Lord has done a great deal for them. What happened by the way? I know it was a long time ago, but we never really got the chance to talk about it. I thought you and Suki were, well, you know…" He trailed off, giving me a nudge in the ribs.

I shoved him playfully back. "Come on man, not in front of my sister."

"Thank you!" Katara was waddling beside him. "I need to sleep before we go to the meeting tonight and I don't think I could get any shuteye after hearing about Sokka's love life." She made a gagging noise.

Unwarranted, the memory of Zuko laughing at something I did the day before comes to mind. It was a deep rich laugh that made my stomach flutter. I push the thought away. "Gee thanks Katara. At least proof of my love life isn't following me around and screaming at me all day." I look back to the kids, they are all yelling as loud as they can for no reason.

Katara and Aang both go red. I'm pretty sure Katara is red from rage and not the embarrassment I know Aang feels from me bringing up his sex life. Without warning I'm smacked in the back of the head, and the ice cold water Katara had sent to hit me runs down my back. "Cold cold cold!" I wiggle to get away. It does nothing but let the water slide further down my shirt. "Not fair!"

"What's not fair?" Izumi runs up and grabs my hand.

"You're Aunt Katara is being mean is all," I whisper to her, side eyeing Katara in mock hurt.

Izumi looks up to Katara with wide eyes, " Please don't be mean to Uncle Sokka, Aunty?"

Katara let out a long sigh, "Now that's not fair. You're using emotional warfare."

"What Emotional Warfare," Bumi yells, jumping around and pretending to be a ninja. "Is it this! HYA!" He karate chops the air.

"No it's this," Kya spins around doing the best a toddler can do at ballet.

"That's enough you guys," Katara sighs, she's exhausted.

"You two need a nap!" Aang says as sternly as he can; they both moan unhappily.

"Once you guys have had a nap you can join Izumi with General Iroh in the garden. I hear there are some just hatched turtleducklings." I say to them, "But she has to take a nap first too." Izumi nods, although more resigned to the fact that she has to take naps rather than being excited about them.

"Fiiiiine," They say in unison.

We are outside of the double door to their suite, one with an attached nursery for the kids. It's one of the best the palace has to offer and I've made sure the staff added a few personal touches. Furs from the Southern Water Tribe are draped over the bed, and on the balcony a meditation platform inspired by Air Nomad designs.

"I hope you can settle in. If you need anything, let me know." I poke my chest with my thumb. "I'll take care of whatever you need."

Katara hugs me and whispers how happy she is to see me. I return the embrace, unable to hold back a smile. "I'm glad you're here."

I walked Izumi to her room and tucked her in. "Now get some good sleep little monster, I know how you get when you're cranky."

"I'm not ever cranky," She yawns and snuggles in under her blanket.

"Sure you're not, Princess." I push her hair back and kiss her forehead. "Sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite."

As I reach for the doorknob I hear he little sleepy voice mumble something. "What's that kiddo?"

"Love you Uncle Sokka." She says again, louder.

My heart swells. "Love you too." I close the door behind me as quietly as possible, smiling like an idiot.

I'm still smiling when I knock on Toph's door. I want to make sure she likes the room and doesn't need anything. I hadn't anticipated her being pregnant when I directed the preparations of her room.

"Come in Snoozles!"

I crack open the door, "Hey don't call me that. I'm a grown man!" Toph is sitting on the floor with her legs crossed and her eyes closed. "What are you doing?"

"I'm meditating. The trip was long, and being pregnant takes its toll. I need to recenter." She gets to her feet without trouble. It apparently wasn't taking as much of a toll on her as it was on Katara.

"Well now that you're…recentered, do you need anything?"

"Now that you mention it," Her voice has taken on a curious and teasing tone, "You could tell me what's going on with you and Matches." She looked almost smug.

I choked on my own spit, and almost fell over from the shock of the question. "What?" I sputter out. "I'm not sure what you are talking about."

"Oh come on, you two were looking at each other every chance you got!"

"You can't even see!" I point at her accusingly. "How could you know if we were looking at one another? Stop teasing me. And here I was trying to make sure you were comfortable."

"Oh come off it. Sometimes being blind I see things more clearly that other people. Especially when all the floors are made out of the best marble I've ever stepped on. You'd think you'd know this by now." She definitely looked smug.

"There's nothing going on!" I threw my hands up in the air. "I've got to go get ready for tonight. If you decide you need something," I held up my hand to cut her off as she was about to repeat herself. "Something other than that, let me know." I slipped out of the room before she had a chance to tease me further. Still the same bully at heart. I guess we all haven't grown up as much as I thought.

I didn't look at Zuko that much…did I? I contemplated this on the way to my room. I mean not more than usual. Was that a lot though? We saw each other every day, what was I supposed to do? Avoid him or never look him in the eye? She was just trying to get under my skin. "Ghaaa! And it's working! That woman I swear!"

"What woman?" A deep familiar voice says close behind me.

I spin around, blushing. Zuko.

Zuko

It was hard not to look at Sokka during the rest of lunch. I tried to participate in conversation as much as possible to distract myself. I notice that Uncle glancing back and forth at the two of us from the corner of his eye. Oh for Spirits' sake... I mostly keep quiet and laugh along with conversations when appropriate.

I glance over at the children to make sure they're not doing anything crazy. Kya is water bending her soup while Bumi and Izumi look on in amazement. I chuckle. What a way to play with food.

I realize I never got around to setting up the conference room. I excuse myself and leave everyone to continue to enjoy themselves.

I walk myself to the staff breakroom to find Dezrah with a mouthful of squid noodle soup. He looks up, sees me, and almost chokes on a mouth full of noodles in panic. I raise my hand to let him know to relax. "Dezrah, please finish eating. When you're done, please meet me in the conference room with one of the chefs. That's all." He nods with acknowledgment and continues to scarf down his soup.

I hear the children yelling from down the hall, probably chasing each other. It's pleasing to have Izumi playing with other children who don't treat her a certain way because of who her father is. Izumi's able to be herself and not be embarrassed if she's not the perfect lady. We, Uncle, Sokka, and I, encourage Izumi to be herself as often as possible; to be polite and considerate but add her own character to everything she does. Still, being a princess can be stifling to a child's imagination.

Finally at the conference room, I look around and assess what needs done. It definitely needs some work. I make a few mental to mention to Dezrah. As if on cue, he walks in with one of his assistants and the head chef, Jo-Gin.

"Ah, just the people I need to see. Did you all enjoy your lunch?" They all bow and nod. "I'm glad. It was very good, Jo-Gin. Master Katara had several bowls of soup. She said it was even better than her grandmother made."

"I am honored you all enjoyed the meal. I hope the Avatar enjoyed his vegetarian meal as well?" Jo-Gin asks me.

"Yes, yes. He had many compliments for his meal, thank you." I motion for Dezrah to stand next to me and start pointing around the room as I give him direction. "I need two comfortable chairs and several pillows in here. There, and there. I don't think two pregnant women would appreciate back pain on top of a late night of work. I also need some small table toys. It would be conducive for all of us to be able to release tension by keeping our hands busy with some trinkets. Do we have any available? Good. Jo-Gin, I will need a few platers of finger foods to go with tea. What else…" I tap my chin. "Oh! How could I forget? We need paper, ink, and quills enough for everyone. Lastly, send messengers to call the rest of the councilman party, I need them to be here."

Dezrah and his assistant take notes furiously. Jo-Gin bows and leaves immediately to get started on my requests. Dezrah regurgitates the details, ensuring he has everything. I bow my thanks and they hastily return the gesture, bending much lower than required.

I wander through the halls and hear Sokka out of nowhere. "Ghaaa! And it's working! That woman I swear!"

I turn the corner and see him, flustered about something. I wonder what?

"What woman?" I ask.

Sokka spins around and he's blushing, like he'd been doing something naughty and I'd caught him in the act. Why is he blushing?

"Uhhh-Uh, nothing!" Sokka sputters out.

I eye the door he might have just walked out of. It's a guest bedroom, Toph's, if I remember correctly.

"Did Toph say something to you that got under your skin?" I ask, looking him over. He seems tense. My eyes linger on Sokka's flushed cheeks. Toph must have done something truly embarrassing for him to be this red. I try my best not to smile. He looks so…hung up on whatever she did, and it's endearing. Where did that come from, focus Zuko!

Sokka hesitates for a second, while I wait for an answer.

"I-It's nothing. You know how Toph is. Cracking jokes and name calling like we're kids again, you know. The usual." He tell me. Hmmmm…sure.

"….Okay, if you say so." I say, to put him at ease. It seems to work.

He relaxes and gives me a curious look. "Where did you run off to after lunch?"

"Oh, I was just setting up the conference room for tonight. I arranged for comfortable chairs and pillows for the girls, food, drinks, some table toys and what not" I explain waving my hand dismissively.

"OHHHH! Why didn't I think of that?!" He groans. He shuts his eyes and rubs his temples in frustration.

"Hey, I know you're the plan guy, but you have enough on your plate as it is. It's already a stressful week, no need to worry about something that's technically my job. You can't do everything for me" I tease him.

He looks at me pouting. I feel my heart slowing down and I fixate on his face. His lower lip is stuck out in a small frown, and his eyes look a little pained. His pride is probably hurt. I feel a fluttering in my stomach. I lightly clench my fists. Am I sweating? I focus and smile. "Well, I was about head to the training room, I skipped my morning session. Would you like to join me?" Say yes.

His pouty face turns into a big grin. "Yeah sure. We haven't sparred in a while. I hope you haven't lost your touch, Fire Lord." He taunts me playfully.

"Oh, excuse me. I don't think it's me you should be worried about. I think you should be worried about keeping up." I tease back.

"Ha! Yeah, okay. We'll see about that."

We head to the training room together, giving each other a hard time along the way. Once there we slipped off unneeded, restricting clothes to best suit our comfort. We arm ourselves. Sokka kept his prized 'space sword', as he called it, in a locked weapons cabinet. I kept a set of dual swords mounted on the wall. Our weapons of choice.

We take our stances at separate ends of the training floor.

"You ready to get your royal ass handed to you?" Sokka says with the upmost cockiness.

How cute, trying to gain the advantage. I give him a smirk. "Ladies first..." Sokka narrows his eyes, his brows pinched in irritation. I enjoy ruffling his feathers as much as he enjoys ruffling mine.

Just as expected, Sokka rushes at me will full force in his initial attack. I easily counter, and we start aiming for each other. Sokka and I dance for a while, our blades sing against each other. He's coming at me attack after attack with no signs of letting up. I'm trying to keep tempo with him, but I'm barely moving fast enough to not to get cut or catch a full blow from his sword. I'm trying to control my breathing and not give the appearance of exhaustion. But fuck, I really am exhausted. I have to remind myself that Sokka is a master swordsman, and not just a councilman. Not to mention it has been a while since I've done this with him. Sword fighting is a perishable skill.

Sokka charges at me again, and I'm just able to dodge him. I whip around immediately and see an opening. I take the opportunity to psyche him out a bit—his form is starting to get a little sloppy. He still has his back turned, and I lightly tap his butt with my dual sword.

"Hey!" Sokka yells. He faces me and is clearly pissed. I laugh, it's too hard to contain my amusement. He's starting to get red in the face.

"I'm sorry, hahah. I just- I just- hahaha. I couldn't resist." I try to say as best I can through my laughter.

He glares at me. "You did that to slow me down because you can't keep up." He says, defending himself.

"It's not like you can best me in everything." I protest.

Sokka straightens up with his brow raised. "Oh really? Name anything and I'll show you that I can. Right here, right now."

Challenge accepted. "Okay, hand-to-hand combat."

Sokka remains still, trying not to appear hesitant. "Fine, but the winner takes the sword match and the grappling."

He tosses his sword aside and peels off his shirt. My throat tightens and I swallow hard. He's not the skinny lanky boy I first met. His chest is hard and raised muscles are peaking in his abdomen. There's sweat glistens on his tan body. A drop trails painfully slow from his collar down over his abs. I rip my gaze away and place my weapons on the floor. I take off my shirt in turn and it feels a little weird... I feel exposed for some reason, although we've been in this situation a hundred time. Something's different. I turn back to face Sokka, who's waiting for me. I catch his eyes wandering my chest, and then he meets my eyes.

"Ok. So, no firebending, no biting, no scratching, and no using..." his eyes look me up and down once more, almost involuntarily, "weapons."

Very serious. "That's fine. Just don't cry when I pin you, and you tap out." I tell him.

He gets into fighting stance. I notice he's grounded, ready for anything I might swing at him. "Ready when you are, Snoozles." I immediately regret saying that. It's like a switch is flipped and he lunges at me. I'm tackled to the floor and feel his knee in my chest. Oh really? Is that how you feel? I raise my leg up, swing it in front of him, and lay it on his chest, slamming him down with force. He hits the ground, hard.

I scramble to get up, but he's more agile than I am. He's up first and tackles me to the ground again, gaining advantage. I buck him off, and he flies forward. I flip over and get on his back, locking my hands across his chest. I'm thrown off as his elbow connects solidly with my face. That fucking hurt. My eyes sting from the impact. Still, I don't let go. Instead I find a window to put him in a rear naked choke. I wrap my arm across this neck and grab my bicep to secure the hold. It brings him to his knees before me, and I go with him tightening my hold more and more. He's struggling to break free. I can taste victory.

I catch an elbow in the ribs hard enough for me to lose grip and to fall back. Sokka slips out quickly and manages to hook his arm into mine and bring it behind me. I swing with my free arm, miss, and his grip twists my arm and pins it against my back. His knee drives into my spine and I'm the floor, face first. Fuck. I'm pinned. Dammit it all. This is what I get for talking all that shit.

"Give up, Fire Lord?" Sokka whispers his breath is in my ear. I feel a chill go down my spine, I don't know if it from the closeness or his deadly tone. I use all the strength I have in my core to push back. Sokka's grip tightens, and forces my arm to start bending at an unnatural angle. The pain makes me stop and I submit. I grunt and start breathing heavily, trying to squirm, but he has me like a tied up hogmonkey.

"Give up!" He yells. I grunt and hesitate, but I don't want to get injured. I give in with a pitiful nod.

He releases me and my whole body slumps. He's never going to let me live this down. I turn my head just enough to see him strutting around the room, arms up, showing off his muscles.

"Ohhhh yeeaah! Master Sokka defeats the hot headed Fire Lord!" He boasts. He looks at me and points. "Say I'm the best! Say it!"

I sit up, but remain on the floor. I sigh, my pride crippling. "Sokka is the best" It comes out a dull whisper.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't hear you. What was that?" Sokka teases, cupping his ear to listen better.

I look at him with disdain and speak loudly, "Sokka is the best!"

He straightens up, a smug smile on his face. "Hmph. How'd it taste saying that?"

"Like vinegar." I snap back. I glare at him, and I can tell he's satisfied. His cockiness is borderline arrogance. It irritates me, I don't like to lose, and he's rubbing me the wrong way. I get up to grab my clothes.

"What's the matter? You gonna cryyyy? Hmmm?"

I snatch my robes off the floor and glare at him. "You really are an insufferable prick!" I hiss. He's taken aback, but still maintains a small smirk. I can't be a sore loser, no matter how much I hate to lose. Looking up to the ceiling I let out a deep sigh and turn my head to him to grant a proper congratulations. "You really are good though Sokka. I'm glad Izumi is training with you. She'll be unstoppable with everything she's learning."

Sokka crosses his arms and puts aside his ego fueled boasting. "Thank you, Zuko. You know I give you my all when we spar. I can't go easy on you just because you're the Fire Lord. Your enemies won't be merciful. I'm especially glad you let me train Izumi. She's going to be able to take care of herself everywhere she goes."

I pat his arm lightly and motion for us to leave. We have dinner and a meeting to attend to.

Sokka

Zuko and I walk out of the sparing room rubbing sweat off our brows. It was a good session and sorely overdue. My muscles ached in the best way possible. I would have to talk him into doing this more. Next time I would try and calm myself down if I won. I try to be a good sport, but sometimes I just get so pumped I can't help myself. Maybe it doesn't really help that I spend so much time with Izumi. She is a five year old girl who hasn't quite found a way to be gracious in her failings and victories yet.

I give Zuko a firm pat on the back as we come to a split in the hallway where we will go our separate ways. "Hey I had a good time. We really need to do that more often." I groan as I stretch my arm across my chest. "There is no way I should be this sore! For sure a sign that we're getting old man."

"I think we could make that work," He cracks his neck and rolls his shoulders. "There's no way I'm letting you beat me next time." There is a cockiness in his voice I'm relieved to hear. I thought I had wounded his pride back in the training room, but it seems like it was only for a moment. Zuko has always impressed me with how much of a master he is over his emotions.

"Yeah right! I'll beat you every time. We'll settle it next time. Right now I think I need to shower. I was sweating in there like a moo-sow!" I pinch my shirt and pull it out, trying to get some air down my front.

"Next time Master Sokka," Zuko smirks at me, and I gulp. A shiver runs down my spine and I feel something like bumble flies in my stomach. He gives me a slight bow which I return and we part ways.

As I walk back to my room I can't help but replay the session over and over. At first I thought it was because I needed to analyze what I had done wrong. I had given it my all but there were a few moments where I was sure I was done for. Even after I pin point all my failings it keeps replaying on a loop. Over and over I can see Zuko strip off his shirt and toss it aside revealing creamy perfect skin. He's lean, but his chest and abs are well defined. His back and shoulders too.

I shake my head. "Dude come on. You're getting weird." I try and shake the image from my head, but it just doesn't work. I drag my feet as I push the heavy double doors open leading to my suite. It's a three room apartment in the palace. A sleeping chamber, anteroom, and a decently sized bathroom. I had been given permission to change it and decorated it as I please, and it reflects my home more than anything. Here and there though are the proofs of my travels. Knickknacks from around the world are hung on the walls, or on shelves. "Home sweet home."

I peel off my sweat soaked clothes as I walk through to the bedroom, leaving articles strewn about. The shower is steaming almost as soon as I turn it on and the hot water calls to me. I hiss as I slide under the stream. "Ahhhh," my muscles relax. I place my forearm on the tile wall and let my head rest on it as the water runs over me.

I start to lather myself, the soap is different than the kind we have back home. Hard bars of lye and whale blubber that keep you clean but aren't fragrant or gentle on the skin. The soap I use in the palace feels almost soft and has a gentle fragrance to it. I move from scrubbing my arms down to my stomach, moving the bar in slow circles. I wonder if Zuko uses this soap too… I close my eyes, and I'm back to seeing our sparring match on repeat. I was on top of him at one point, before he bucked me off. His skin was so soft and the muscle underneath so firm. Something in my stomach stirs and the muscles in my groin twitch.

"I can't be thinking these sorts of things," I breathe huskily. The steam from the shower has me flushed, the perfumed soap and heat are making my head spin, but I can't stop. As I move the bar over my thighs, they aren't mine, but Zuko's. "I need to stop." I whimper futilely. I'm hard as a rock and the water flowing over my erection feels like the gentle caress of a lover. I set the soap aside after getting a generous amount of suds in my palms. I needed to be thoroughly clean after all.

I take a deep breath, and start by gently massaging my sack, rolling the balls inside. I let out a low moan and flex the muscles in my back. Spirits this feels good. I'm not in the shower but on the mat with Zuko, he's wrapped himself around my back, but instead of locking his arms across my chest his hands are exploring me. Gently, almost shyly caressing the plains of my chest and ridges of my abs and even lower... "Fuck." My cock twitches almost painfully at the thought. "I shouldn't." I continue to protest but my hand is moving on its own. I need to touch myself and get release or I'll go crazy. I've never been so hard up, not since I found out what masturbation was when I was a teenager.

The first stroke is nearly too much to bare and I almost lose my load, but it feels so good I don't want it to end just yet. "Too…soon." Would his hands be as soft as the rest of him? Or would they be calloused and hard like mine? He's a warrior, and no stranger to a sword. Something tells me they would be strong but almost delicate. I can tell by the way he writes, and moves his hands that there would be a finesse to it, if he were to ever touch me like this. I try to imitate the way I imagine he would do it. Long, tantalizing slow strokes. So different from the normal short powerful ones I do to get the job done. I rub my thumb lightly over the throbbing head after a particularly gratifying stroke. Master Sokka. Zuko and that smirk fill my head and it's too much. "Uhhnnn" The muscles in my abdomen clench and I cum into the shower. The orgasm wracks my body, and I'm panting.

Dread starts to set in. What the fuck was that…It's like I had had no power to stop myself. He's your best friend and a guy, what the actual fuck! I continued to berate myself as I toweled off and as I got dressed. I yelled at myself in the mirror as I pulled my hair up. Eventually it was too much. I covered my face with my hands and collapsed on the bed. "UHHHGGGG!" and then it really hit me. "FUCK!" How was I going to face him tonight?

"Sokka!" There was a knock on the door, and Toph yells my name again.

"Hold on!" I pull myself up and slap my cheeks trying to pull myself together. I go to the antechamber and open the door enough for her to come in. I offer her a seat, which she accepts, and I sit across the small tea table from her.

"I'm sorry I don't have any refreshments to offer you, I do have some sweets I got from the Earth Kingdom though! If you want some rock candy. Be careful though, it grows on you." Ha, classic. I can do this. Totally normal.

"Naw I hate that stuff. I just came by to see if you wanted to go to the meeting together." She kicks her feet up on the table and rests her hands on her round belly. "But there is something I want."

"Yeah, and what's that." I look at her feet on the table and raise an eyebrow, which had been hand crafted.

She suddenly puts her feet on the ground and looks at me purposefully, even though I know she's blind it feels like she can see into my very soul. "What's really going on between you and Zuko, and you better not tell me nothing because I can feel your heart beating a million miles a minute." She smirks at me. Earth bending. Of course.

"I really hate you sometimes."

Zuko

Fucking Hell I'm tired. Ugh, my poor damn back. Sokka did a number on me today. I haven't had a sparring session that intense in forever. I toss my robes into a pile and head straight to the bathroom. I decide to run myself a bath. There was no way I wanted to stand up any longer. Note to self- install shower bench. I throw my hair up into a high knot and slip into the hot water to relax. The heat instantly loosens my muscles and I feel the tension disappear. I lay there with my eyes closed for a moment enjoying the silence. Taking advantage of the peace and quiet, I reflect on the day.

One thing that keeps standing out is my attention toward Sokka. Why have I been so…so…fixated on him? I catch myself staring at him more and more often. Sometimes he notices me staring too! It's getting out of hand. I try to think back, have I always been like this with him? Nothing comes to mind. There is flood of memories I have with Sokka of the past 5 years, but they are nothing like today.

I remember we took a vacation when Izumi was a few months old. I was stressed past my limit. Nonstop meetings since Mai had been pregnant and even after her passing, seemed to be my life. Things were difficult around the palace, and I was being pulled in too many different directions at once. All I wanted to do was lock up in my bedroom and do nothing but spend time with Izumi.

Uncle had pulled me aside and suggested I take a break from everything for a little while. I didn't argue. I wanted someone to tell me what to do. I wanted someone to take care of me. So we planned a vacation to Ember Island. The beach home had been restored and updated. Sokka had something planned for every day we were there. Every day. We had enough activities to where I couldn't even think about work, or how I was really feeling, even if I wanted to. Sokka even made sure we had a nursing Oxgoat at the beach house; so we didn't run out of milk for Izumi.

We went shopping, dined out, hiked, picked flower berries, and sprawled out on the beach. Uncle managed, by some miracle, to arrange for our guards stay at the palace, so we could relax without them following our every step.

I recall looking at Sokka a lot, thinking back on it. The memory thought is mostly me, hiding behind a pair of dark glasses, watching Sokka care for Izumi. My constant smile, I remember Uncle telling me on the trip back, made him sure that I was finally relaxing and enjoying my time with my family and how happy he was to see it. I think I brushed off how often I looked at Sokka on that trip, by telling myself it was because he was with my daughter. It was true enough that I couldn't stop watching her, she was growing so fast.

Sokka….I think about the way he whispered in my ear when he had me pinned. The rise it got out of me. The tingling sensation down my back returns. No, don't do this. It's…wrong. I shove the thought out of my head. But Sokka's face is still there, smiling at me. The image comforts me.

I open my eyes and notice steam is no longer rising from the hot water. Or, what used to be hot water. Damn, how long have I been in here? I pull myself out of the tub and rush to get ready. Damn it damn it damn it. I'm never late. It was not like me to be late to anything. Despite running late, I was not going let myself look sloppy. After painstakingly pinning my hair and adjusting my robes I blast through my bedroom doors.

I'm speed walking through the halls trying to get to the grand dining hall as fast as I can. I see Dezrah, who seems to be relieved to see me. "Is everyone seated already? Am I really late? How long have they been waiting for me? I'm sorry, this never happens. I don't know what came over me." I blurt out.

Dezrah looks at me puzzled. "Sir, you're on time. I don't know what made you think you were running late…But yes, everyone is here and seated. The children have their own table adjacent to yours. Your guests and councilmen have not been waiting long. In fact, everyone has greeted and introduced themselves to one another."

I slump forward, resting myself on my knees, and let out a huge sigh of relief. Thank God. Okay, you're okay. Breathe. You're the Fire Lord, compose yourself. I pull myself together as Dezrah announces my entrance.

I walk in calm, cool, and collected. Although my mind is still frazzled, my anxiety at an all-time high; running a million miles a minute. Everyone stood, faced me, and bowed. I bow in turn and ask everyone to take their seats as I remain standing.

"Good evening everyone. I'm pleased that all those whom are a part of the United Republic Project were able to make it. I am honored and humbled by your dedication to not only me but to Avatar Aang as well. I was told that everyone has been introduced, so I will keep the introductions of my guests as short as possible. Avatar Aang will be with us all this week to keep the peace and act as a neutral negotiator. Master Katara, from the Southern Water, and Ambassador Sokka will be working alongside Nahime as representatives of the Water Nation. Chief Toph Beifong, is representing Law Enforcement of Republic City, and will brief us her plans of recruitment for street officers. With all that being said, let's enjoy our dinner!" As I sit, the food is brought out and everyone is served. I glance over to Sokka every now and then. His jawline is just…perfect. His high cheek bones compliment his nose and make for an entrancing side profile. Thinking like this was going to lead to dangerous thoughts. But maybe that's a bad thing…Maybe.

Several courses are served and I wonder how any of us are going to be able to stay awake for the meeting after such a satisfying meal.

I study my guests and everyone looks sated and heavy eyed. Great. This is just what we needed. I stand, raising my hand for my guests to remain seated.

"I think we all enjoyed and possibly over indulged on tonight's dinner. We should put the children to bed before the meeting commences. Dezrah will escort all of you to the conference room. If any of you are inclined to smoke, there is an outdoor lobby near the conference room and the best shisha the palace can procure will be provided to you. I will meet with you all shortly. Thank you. Izumi dear, come." I reach out for my daughter's hand as she approaches. She waves at Bumi and Kya for the night, who return the wave. Aang and Katara gather their children and take them to their room as everyone else stands and departs.

Sokka catches up with Izumi and I. "Hey! Hey you guys, wait up!" He calls out. We both stop and look toward him. My chest tightens as I try not to blush, smile, or even think about him. Which is hard when he's standing right in front of me.

Izumi holds her free hand out, wanting Sokka to hold onto it. He grabs ahold and the three of us continue our walk to her room. I look over at Izumi and Sokka, both who have smiles on their faces. I feel warmth spread through my chest, light, and at ease as I look at our family. Family. At this moment, I think I might have to accept the reason for my attentions toward Sokka. Then again…The warm feeling in my chest could be heartburn from tonight's fire hot dragon fish. Yeah that's definitely it…

We're all quiet until we reach her room. "Daddy, will you and Uncle Sokka tell me a story before bed?" She asks with pleading eyes.

"I don't see why not. Sokka?" I ask him.

"No not at all. Stories are my specialty!" He raves. I roll my eyes and shake my head. Of course they are.

Izumi changes into pajamas and hops into bed. I pull the blankets over her and she shimmies down into her bed. "Now, what would you like to hear?" I ask.

She takes a moment and thinks about what she hasn't heard yet. "Well," She starts of. "I've hear how you and Uncle Sokka met already…Did you have any adventures together?" She asks. Sokka and I both look at each other, knowing what story we would be sharing together. The Boiling Rock prison break.

We start from the beginning from how I walked up to the group at the Western Air Temple and offered my services to Aang to learn fire bending. Izumi listens in awe, there excitement in her eyes. She doesn't interrupt us as we tell her the story, but I can see her burning with questions.

"And honestly, I though your mother was going to kill us all. Literally. Instead she helped us escape, and I knew she had decided to change for the better, like me." I say.

"She was pretty upset, but with her help we managed to get back to the Air Temple. My father and I were able to reunite with your Aunt Katara. I have to say, that's when I gained full trust in your dad. He had my back no matter how dangerous the trip was, and it got pretty dangerous." Sokka winks for effect. "It's honorable for a warrior to be willing to sacrifice his life."

"Wow, that's amazing!" Izumi exclaims. "Can I ask you something?" she says to the both of us.

"Yes sweetheart. I know there might be some things you don't understand. It was a different time then." I tell her.

"Ok. Uncle Sokka, what ever happened to Suki?" she asks. Uh oh…

"Well, you see Izumi—in life, you meet many people. Some go and some stay. Suki was one of those girls who came and went. She and I were in love, but we wanted different things from life. She was a warrior and did not want to take on 'typical womanly duties'. Whatever that means. She was always criticizing me, and after a while, she didn't like me anymore…we didn't love each other." He explains. Really? What didn't she like about Sokka? I wonder.

"Criticizing?" Izumi asks with her head tilted.

"When someone points out something they don't like about you. They make sure you understand why they don't like it, and try to convince you why you should change."

Izumi looks down for a second and looks back at Sokka. "Isn't it good to change though? Like how Daddy did?"

"Well yea. But when someone tries to force you to change who you are, you don't like it. It's being someone that you're not. Does that make sense?"

Izumi thinks for another minute. "Kinda like when I have to act a certain way all the time with the fire bending students? They think I'm loud and stuff and I can't be myself around them."

"Yes! Yes exactly. But instead they tell you that you need to stay that way all the time."

"But what about Daddy? He acts a certain way too." She points out.

"Well honey, there's a difference. I want to act this way when I'm around government officials. I need to be polite and professional. Some of the things I do for work, I try to do all the time. Like being polite, courteous, being calm and patient. Do you see the difference?" I ask her.

"Yea, that makes sense. One more question!" She exclaims.

"Okay, but only one more, young lady. It's bedtime." Sokka says to her wagging his finger.

She hesitates for a moment and looks at me. Her expression tells me she's about to ask a sensitive question. "Why was Mommy mad at you, before you were at the Boiling Rock?" She asks. Ah shit…

"Well…it's a long story. But, at that time before I joined your Uncle Sokka, I was with my sister and her friends. Your mother, she and I were in a relationship. At the time I had started to change, I knew that if I was with her my sister would see her as a traitor and she would be in trouble. So I didn't want continue our relationship. I hurt her feelings. And the worst part was, I didn't tell her. I wrote her a letter, instead of telling her. She wasn't too happy about that." I explain.

"Ohh" she says, her tone stoic "…do you miss her?"

I take a moment to keep my emotions in check. "Every day. I don't think I can ever be with another woman. Your mom…she was one of a kind. She put up with me in so many ways. I don't know how anyone would stick around. You'll have to ask Sokka." Wait—did that sound weird? The realization of my mistake is all over my face and Sokka sees me going down.

He laughs. "I don't know how ANYONE, deals with you, but yeah you've grown on me." He says as he nudges me with his hand.

Izumi looks at both of us with a smile. Her expression is mischievous. Izumi, what are you thinking?

"Okay! Thank you for the story Daddy and Uncle Sokka." She says, plopping backwards on her oversized pillow.

Sokka messes with her hair before telling her goodnight. I pat down the nest he made of her hair and kiss her forehead. "I love you sweetheart. If you need anything, I'll be in the conference room, okay?"
"Okay Daddy. I love you." She kisses my cheek and closes her eyes.

We walk out of her room and shut the double doors behind us. I lean against the doors staring up at the ceiling. I feel anxious around Sokka at the moment—thinking back on my phrasing and implication of Sokka putting up with me like Mai did. We're both quiet for a moment. Sokka looks at me and breaks the ice.

"Look I know what you meant back there, don't feel weird." He says.

I straighten up and look at him. "Oh I-…I mean I wasn't-" I stutter.

"No look it's fine, I knew what you meant. Let's go to the meeting. I think we've kept them long enough."

We walk to the conference room, complaining how this entire week was going to include late nights, little sleep, and constant headaches.

The first meeting wasn't as bad as I had anticipated it to be. I had on display a map of the Earth Kingdom and outlines was the property that would be transformed into the United Republic. We revised the deed the Earth King had sent by messenger hawk dispatched it promptly for his approval. Voting took place on the new location of Republic City, the new nation's capital. It was decided that the United Nations Army and the White Lotus would be the temporary government, and would select senators throughout the world to run in a presidential campaign. At the end of the meeting, Sokka reviewed the schedule and topics for the following day. It decided that tomorrow at breakfast we would all reconvene, and we would get into it in earnest.