Chapter 2

Katara was slightly awakened by the sunlight hearing Zukos sweet voice calling for her to wake up. When she opened her eyes there he laid, bare chested with a sheet covering his lower half.

In a cold sweat, Katara fully awakened. She was gasping for breath, dreaming Zuko, really? How immature was she? She definitely didn't need this right now, she can't be having silly dreams of her somewhat boyfriend just after the war. Plus it was his coronation, she couldn't bring up anything about their relationship and she was perfectly fine waiting. They had plenty of time.

She threw off the red silk sheets and scooted off the abnormally large bed getting herself dressed for the day. She fixed her hair, made sure her clothes were clean enough for the coronation and met with her brother and other bending friends. Lined up were from fire, water and earth tribes as Zuko announced the war was over and that would help assist Aang restore balance back into the world.

Katara couldn't help but stare at the now Fire Lord with his beautiful red and golden robes. He was so different just a year ago. Nothing like the troubled boy that she's fought and ran from. She smiled at the coming together as another huge feast was celebrated for the official ending of the 100 year war in the earth kingdom.

Zuko, however, descended into his chambers in his bedroom. He disrobed from the over exaggerated garments, he much preferred to wear armor than six layers of cloth and silk. He sighed changing into more comfortable clothing with his red tunic and simple trousers, it gave him more leg room to fight. He thought about his sister for a brief second, remembering her mentality slipping.

"Can I come in?" He heard from afar as he turned to see his future ex. Oh gods, here it comes, he didn't want to deal with this now but it's now or never.

Mai walked in, casually judging his decor in his bedroom.

"Did you need something?" He asked her, still taking it a bit slow as he stood up.

"No, is it wrong to see my boyfriend?" Mai crosses her arms, slightly annoyed by his question. Her words were icy and cold unlike Kataras. He couldn't help compare the two, when it came to opposites it would definitely be Mai and Katara. Total night and day.

Zuko reluctantly turned away from her, how was he going to go about this? There wasn't an easy way out, as long as he left Katara out of it he would be fine with Mais wrath.

"About that," Zuko started, pausing, "I think I would rather stick with my decision. It's best if we're not together."

"Are you serious?" Mai asked, her raspy tone becoming angrier. "You decide now to break up with me after I just told you yesterday not to."

Zuko didn't reply, he just stared at her waiting for any type of fight but Mai didn't move an inch.

"Whatever." She turned her back to him, "I'm not fighting you. Don't bother me anymore." Was all she said, storming out of his bedroom with the doors shutting behind her.

That… was better than he thought. They were on the ropes of their relationship anyway, and she most likely suspected that. They grew apart and couldn't see eye to eye anymore.

He exhaled a sigh of relief, expecting the worse. He was thankful that Mai didn't suspect anything or even demanded to know who. That could eventually happen but he decided to not fret over it now. He had a water tribe girl to see.

He walked out of his chambers, walking through the palace preparing for his journey to the earth kingdom and his uncle's tea shop he helped establish.

Luckily it wasn't too horribly far to travel because of the fire nations colonies that they've created. He was excited, to not only see his friends but as well his somewhat girlfriend that hasn't been quite official just yet. He already missed her, wondering what she was doing. She was probably just enjoying herself which was perfectly normal which he wanted, craved for.

He was offered to be escorted on ships, soldiers by his side but he simply refused. He was used to being by himself and he quite enjoyed his time alone. It gave him a sense of peace, time to think. Most of it was about Katara and he was okay with that. He never thought of one person in his head all the time except for his uncle. He never really had that with Mai. He always thought about actions and how it would affect her but not as a person like he admired Katara. Strong, brave, witty, blunt, not unlike where Mai was forced to be with Azula for a while cause she feared her. Katara wasn't any of those, she refused to back down despite her fears.

"I miss you already." He said to himself as she looked at the evening sky till he finally arrived at the feast.

He was greeted by his friends who called out to him and gave him a group hug except Katara, keeping a slight distance for the moment. He was given plenty of food for him as people in the distance began lighting fireworks and dancing in the middle of the roads.

Over time Katara and Zuko were able to escape to be alone, dancing with the people. They celebrated, laughed and danced with one another. Katara admitted that Aang was much more of a better dancer than Zuko, but she couldn't take her eyes off of him as she twirled and met in his arms.

They synced with each other with such fluidity that it seemed like it was already rehearsed.

Zuko wasn't much of a dancer, at least not the village type dances. He only knew the royal palace dances and ballroom etiquette when he was taught. However, he didn't mind if he didn't know, he hadn't had this much fun in all his life. Not since he was with his mother. Kataras dancing was bewitching to him, he made sure to keep up with her.

He managed to slip away for now, at least for the time being and watched her from afar with a giant smile on her face.

Zuko went to the nearby festival stands picking up a single panda lily that was the last one being sold. He held onto it patiently, happily watching is now girlfriend. She gave a graceful pose once the music finished its song.

Katara began to look for Zuko, unaware that he left her side. She didn't think she would get distracted so easily, she scanned through the crowd till her eyes finally settled on the prince, watching her lovingly.

He walked toward her, and as Zuko walked Katara's heart fluttered. Eyes only on her, unlike Aang who gets the attention to his head.

"You did great." Zuko smiled handing her the panda lily. Katara felt her cheeks get hot again, this was so different from the Zuko she thought he was. Angsty, moody, brooding, but she couldn't help but get swept off her feet by him. When he could be romantic, sweet, and trustworthy. She happily took the panda lily and smelled it's sweet smoked scent.

"So did you." She giggled. Zuko gently took the flower back and placed it into her hair, both of them smiling.

"Can I tell you something?" He asked.

"Well, you sort of did," she laughed, "but go on." She said while he took her hand again walking aimlessly around the town.

"I've never been this happy before. I didn't think I could be. Sometimes I don't think I deserve it." He said solemnly.

"You definitely do. Of all people. Zuko, you deserve happiness."

"You're the only one besides my uncle who's told me that." He kissed the back of her hand. Katara's heart pounded; she really thought it was going to burst for a second. This poor boy, she pitied a bit. Not only having an abusive family but not one person besides his uncle has said a kind word to him. How much pain he could be feeling, endure and heal himself.

Katara gently placed her hand at the side of his face near his scar. Zuko leaned more into her hand for more warmth. He could already feel her seeing past his scar, into his soul. He didn't mind the touch on his scar from her, he wouldn't anyone else touch it, not even Mai. He could already hear his sisters cruel jokes about him but he was able to push that aside quickly, seeing that Katara loved him.

She smiled, and felt like that's all she ever did now with Zuko. She would do whatever it took to make him happy, support him, even as Fire Lord.

"I love you." He blurted, but felt himself blush immediately. He told himself he would take it slow, cursing himself. He didn't want to scare her off, but saying those words to her felt so right. It was way better than just saying 'I don't hate you' like Mai. Sure it was a cute phrase between them but Zuko much preferred the real thing. He wasn't even sure or remembered when the last time Mai actually said those words. "I'm sorry, I'm saying that too fast —"

"I love you too." Katara said immediately, with a big smile on her face. He felt immediate reassurance, he could feel every word she put into those words and meant it.

"Really?" He asked, excitedly like a small child.

"Yes, really." She confirmed, before she could giggle at his cuteness she was met with a deep kiss from his lips. Katara about her dream she had as she kissed him more, but calmed herself. Once they parted Zuko hugged her at her waist twirling her in his arms.

God he was so happy, he could scream it to the rooftops, feeling as if he was already healed. He knew that this relationship could use more time before he did but for now he will always remember this moment. There wasn't any other girl who could grab his attention like Katara. He never thought he could experience such passion like his fire bending. With Mai it was cold, distant and raised his anxiety.

With Katara it was all new, exciting and he wanted more of it. He had never been so open with a person before and accepted him. And it felt just right.

They walked together all night. Holding hands, twirling Katara and dancing around on sidewalks and stairs as he hummed random music for them to dance to when no one was around to play anymore. They laughed and had long hugging moments into each other's arms.

Even Katara was surprised at herself being this way with Zuko, she felt drunk without ever actually drinking any type of alcohol. She remembered a phrase her mother told her when she was with her father,'love drunk'.

Katara loved seeing this charming and sensitive side to Zuko. It was different from an angry teenager that was chasing her around the world. But she knew what it was like to be lost and confused, knowing his history now, it all washed away. She loved hearing his humming voice to an unknown melody as they randomly danced as they walked. Why was it that she felt so safe with him? In her heart she knew he was good despite her guarded walls but ignored them for the longest time. She hadn't had this fun in a long time, and it was till the sun rose they noticed.

"We should definitely get some sleep." Zuko suggested as they watched the sun rise together side by side, hand in hand.

"Yeah, we should." Katara agreed shyly, not wanting to leave his side yet.

Zuko didn't want to either, he wanted to be near her every second with this new found love he discovered. Royal duties suddenly came rushing in, there was plenty of work he had to do as the new fire lord.

They gave one last kiss goodbye before Zuko dropped off Katara to her quarters, kissing behind a large pillar. He waited till Katara closed her bedroom door and he began to head back as Sokka stood there, arms crossed in front of him with a cocked eyebrow. This was probably worse than Mai, he thought. He totally didn't think about her brother and he was an idiot for even forgetting him. He was the total master of scheming. The invasion, the weapons, the submarines, the master mind of escaping in one of the most secured fire nation's prisons and Zuko, now Fire Lord forgot about her brother. Zuko was absolutely petrified of being caught red handed. Spirits know what he could be thinking now of how to kill him.

"Sokka," he greeted awkwardly.

"Please tell me I did not just see you making out with my sister." Sokka emphasized.

"You did not see me making out with your sister." Zuko replied, hoping he would take the bait and just call it that. Sokka, of course scrunched his face with disgust.

"I don't wanna know how you two came to be, but if I see one tear shedded, a single cut, bruise or scratch I will know." He threatened, "If I catch you with any other girl, I will find you. Especially our father." Zuko also thought Katara would also be sure to find him if he hurt her, but he didn't want to get on both of their bad sides. He already saw and experienced plenty of that. Her father, another thing that stressed him out more. The leader of the southern tribe who also happened to be the father of his new girlfriend. It would probably take some time for Hakoda to warm up to him. Although they are quite civil and friendly with each other, once he learns his daughter is dating the Fire Lord, that would be one hell of an interaction. He didn't even want to think about that for now. He did hope that one day they would get along and that he would remember their alliance and work when breaking out of prison.

"I never want to hurt your sister." Zuko assured with utmost seriousness, "I will do everything in my power to make sure she's protected."

Sokka didn't reply for a moment, just eyed the new lord of the fire nation that was once his enemy. He determined whether he should end it now to prevent any future heartbreak or he should continue and respect his sister's wishes. He wisely chose to respect his sister, at least till she would come to him about it. And he didn't want to deal with her nagging about minding his own business.

"Fine." Sokka finally said, unfolding his arms. "But this doesn't mean I like any of this." He gestured oddly like he usually does.

"You don't have to." Zuko accepted his disagreement.

He said his awkward excuse to the brother that he had to get going, which is pretty true. He needed to get sleep as soon as possible to deal with any future dealings he had to do to help people and countries heal from the war. Then he can see his girlfriend again.

Katara on the other hand was giddy after she closed the door, humming happily to herself and plopping onto her fancy bed. She never thought she would ever feel like a girly girl in love. She couldn't help but smile to herself and think of the handsome prince that was once her enemy before, even sparring with. Their bending fights were the toughest she had ever been, but honestly she enjoyed it at the same time.

She sat up straight thinking about her other friends even her brother would think of dating Zuko. Her face scrunched with fear. She could already hear Toph's remarks, Aang's face riddled with heartbreak, Sokka's disgust. She groaned, how will any of them accept Zuko as her new boyfriend? It's her very first real boyfriend, minus Jet they weren't official. She really wanted them to accept their relationship, maybe she'll keep it secret. At least for a little while till everything settled down with the countries.

She plopped on her back to lay down again, less giddy. She'll just sleep everything away and leave it for future Katara, she usually knows what to do.

Katara slept through almost all day. She slowly awakened by herself from the restful sleep. She was greeted with a simple bouquet of fire lilies, they weren't exactly her favorite flower but she knew who they were from. There was a card in front of the bouquet that simply said.

Good Morning

With only two simple words, Katara could feel Zukos feelings through. Even just the gesture made her feel happy. As she fully sat up there set up was a small food cart with varieties of brunch foods from the nation, but naturally ruined by her brother casually sitting next to it and eating it.

Kataras face dropped with annoyance.

"And what exactly are you doing here?" She asked, "Don't you have something to do with dad or Suki?"

"No," he said shortly, then began picking his teeth with his boomerang. She groaned with disgust at her brother, this is what she had to take care of when growing up and turned out to be this.

"Oh just out with it, Sokka. What do you want?" She asked annoyed with her motherly tone. Sokka always knew how to push her with such ease, a perk of growing up with her. How should he tell her that he knows about her and Zuko? So many ideas, so many ways to torture and mess with his dear sister. Should he be blunt and direct? No, too easy. Maybe teasingly say something's up between them? He could watch her be backed into a wall trying to make an excuse.

Maybe he could say that Zuko told him, ah but he would be caught instead. Katara is pretty perceptive of people, he and her both knew that Zuko wouldn't willingly tell Sokka anything like this.

Decisions, decisions, he had the perfect one.

"You seem to be in a good mood." He mentioned.

Katara flinched at his comment, Sokka enjoying her squirm and searching for a valid answer.

"Well of course, the wars over. What do you think?" She laughed a little too nervously. Sokka enjoyed the psychological torture on his sister, knowing information that she didn't. He found it incredibly hilarious. Now for the final blow.

"Look, I saw you and Zuko making out last night and I'll say it, it wasn't a pleasant thing to watch." Katara froze. He could already see her head turning it's wheels and backing into a wall quickly. Her face turned into shame and then embarrassment, covering her whole face with the palms of her hands.

Sokka contained his laughter, as much as he enjoyed torturing his sister, it looked like he really hurt her. He sighed, obviously it looked like she genuinely liked the fire bender.

"I'm sorry." Her brother apologized, "I was joking with you. But if you really like Zuko, as much as I don't like it, I'll accept it for you." Katara snapped her head toward her brother, tears in her eyes but surprised.

"You'd do that for me?" She asked.

"Of course I'll do that for you, you're my sister. Plus I already kind of threatened him that if he hurts you that dad and I will kill him." Sokka stood up and hugged his sister and she gladly returned.

"And I'll keep my mouth shut, till you're ready." Katara laughed from his remarks and threat to Zuko.

Sokka suspected that there would be some sort of awkward rift in their friend group between Aang and Katara. He already heard from Aang that his sister rejected him.

Sokka helped wipe his sisters tears away and smiled. He would never say this directly but he definitely would do anything for his sister, no matter how much he gave her a hard time on purpose. She may not know or think he would, but he's glad that he was able to rely on his sister despite her motherly nagging and antics. He wouldn't have been able a proper man without her. Clean clothes, meals every day with his favorite sides, she would go out of her way to make sure he had a full stomach.

Zuko made a good choice, he would never say that either. But he hoped Zuko knew that he is one special, lucky guy. Katara doesn't pick anyone, and she's very picky with boys. Always had been since they were young.

Sokka left Katara and stopped pestering her, at least for today.

Katara remained in her room alone, wondering what her Fire Lord boyfriend was doing. She picked off a few things off the food cart, smelled her fire lilies and quickly departed to search the palace.

Zuko on the other hand was dealing with loads of paperwork. Attending meetings, hearing out his people's requests unlike his father who he neglected. He made note of every request that came to see him to help improve his country.

He sent previous war leaders for revaluation and promoted new ones to restore peace. He clearly stated to his people and his nation that the Fire Nation will not install fear. They will be peaceful, and help other neighboring countries in need.

It was time to get ambassadors or leaders from each nation. For trade, for currency, boundaries or any other needs that need to be met. He invited the Earth Kingdom, and asked Aang to represent Air Nomads for now who gladly accepted. The last Zuko asked Hakoda to be the representative for the Southern Tribe who also gladly accepted, he made sure to not mention anything about Katara for now.

Everything was slowly coming into place. He sat in his office room with stacks of paper he would need to get through eventually. For now he needed a break, and he used that to think of his beautiful girlfriend.

"Fire Lord, Zuko." Called one of the guards. He exasperated, not once of self peace.

"What is it?" He asked trying to keep his tone even.

"Miss Katara is here to see you. She wanted to know how you're healing." Surprised, and speak of the spirits that she's here!

"Send her in." He gave permission. The guard bowed and made his exit, escorting the young girl. Her hair was down this time, which Zuko secretly enjoyed seeing the style. Dressed in her fire nation outfit that he proudly liked seeing a lot, but blue definitely suited her.

"Hey." Katara greeted shyly.

"Hi." Zuko responded with. It was always so awkward for them the next day, but he was thrilled to see her. So was Katara. Seeing him in Fire Lord robes was different than seeing him in random fire nation garments.

"You look different." Katara said, "Especially with your hair up like that."

"Really?" He asked, touching his head.

"We'll sort of. I kind of like it down, but this suits you too. Are feeling okay? Did you sleep, uh okay?" She asked nervously remembering the previous night.

"Yes, I did. I'm just overwhelmed with these papers." He complained. "Being Fire Lord can have its perks but I always hated paperwork. I had to do this as a prince too but this is ten times more."

"I can help." Katara said excitedly, immediately walking over next to him. She picked up the papers, reviewing them.

Zuko, taken off guard from sudden movements he blushed. He really shouldn't let her look at these confidential files but, she is his girlfriend and hopefully one day Fire Lady. And one of his best friends, plus he was Fire Lord himself, he could trust her.

"Oh, this is just needs a signature. And this one just wants approval for a ship to depart to whale tail island for supplies. I can totally help with this Zuko, if it helps. I can bring the important ones and ones that need to be signed if you want."

"I couldn't let you do that, this is Fire Lord's work." He protested.

"Zuko," she said, placing hands on her hips, gesturing to all the papers, "not even your father can handle this on his own while attending to other duties. Let me help." He couldn't resist Katara and it was really hard to say no.

"Do you really think you can handle this?" He asked a little concerned.

"Yes, I've got nothing better to do anyway. Now, go on. You've got other things to do right?" She hurried home as she placed a kiss on his temple casually then she froze. She immediately felt herself blush, was she really that comfortable with him already? It seemed like nothing changed but with added passion and kisses.

Zuko was pleased with her nurturing nature, and smiled at her kiss.

"Katara, it's okay. I'm your boyfriend now."

"I know, I know." She said, still trying to calm herself, "It's just a little different for me. It's new, but I like it. It'll take time to adapt."

"I understand." He said, giving her a small peck on her lips in return. "Thank you, again."

"Anytime." She smiled brightly, and when he departed she sifted through his paperwork. She made sure to read through each one thoroughly, organized each one which was more priority and less priority.

Zuko was definitely relieved from the paperwork, he could have a bit more free time and mentally prepare other meetings he would have to attend and the day was almost to a close, hopefully could have a nice dinner with his new lady.

He rested at his favorite spot, watching the turtle ducks play till he was called for from one of his guards,

Things slowly becoming the new normal, and for once, he was finally happy that he was home.