Zuko tossed in bed, tugging restlessly against his newly obtained 'royal' robes. His unease with getting used to palace life once more caused him to abandon his attempts at getting some rest. The Fire Prince changed into a set of simple robes and headed out. The royal palace of Ba Sin Se was huge; it was only until late night did his wanderings bring him to one of the balconies' overlooking the Earth City.
He sighed and leaned on the parapet, thought wandering back to Uncle and the caves. The cool breeze was welcome relief for the Fire Prince as his robes fluttered and the lantern light began to flicker; a moment's peace and he wanted to cherish it. The soft sound of footsteps alerted Zuko to the presence of another person. A soft, neutral voice emanated from behind him, "You couldn't sleep too, huh?" Zuko nodded softly. Mai stepped out of the shadows. As she reached his side, her normally bored expression had softened into something Zuko could not quite understand. His chest tightened as the wind caused her hair to sway. "You know, we never really said a proper goodbye," Mai spoke; her voice pierced the silence between them, her eyes remaining fixed on the scenery laid out before them. Her golden eyes shimmered with the flickering light. Her fingers toyed with a stiletto, twirling it in deadly arcs. Then, with a flick of her wrist, it disappeared into her sleeve, back into its holster.
Zuko reached out and grasped her hand. Mai stiffened, not expecting the prince's actions. He drew her closer and looked into her eyes. His hardened eyes drank in every detail, memorizing the curves of her face, scared that it wouldn't last. Mai reached out her slender fingers and traced the scar which marred his features, exploring the calloused, dried skin; her other hand through his hair. Muscular arms snaked around her waist pulling her into an embrace, and the soothing scent of jasmine of her hair overwhelmed him. Built up feelings he never expressed seemed to wash over him, a part of his life that he thought was lost suddenly revived and he held her tighter. He continued to hold her and she didn't seem to mind, even as he started playing with her hair, eventually setting it loose and free. As both pairs of golden orbs connected with each other, no words were needed to be spoken as they exchanged smiles. The two teenagers leaned forwards as the wind once again swirled around them…
As their lips met, the pair were in a state of bliss. The kiss was short, and tender, but more than enough. Leaning into the Prince's broad frame, Mai listened to the steady beat of his heart as he gently rocked her petite figure. "Welcome back, Prince Zuko." She felt his muscles relax as they rested in each other's embrace.