Ikem was standing in front of the Throne room.

Though, Zuko always insisted on having a casual relationship with Ikem, he never responded. For him, Zuko was his wife's son that's it. Nothing else. He never resented Zuko for anything. But he couldn't deny that Zuko was the living proof of Ursa having a life before him.

" Lord Zuko, I have come to your behest" "Father, I told you not to do this when we were alone.""I wish to respect your position as a citizen of humble birth"

Zuko sighed. He tried his best to be close to Ikem. He learned everything from his uncle. How he was separated from Ursa and how he never married after that. He always wanted a father like this. Who would value family over anything? He wanted to spend time with him. But royal duties didn't allow it. Especially after 100 years of war, everyone was blaming the fire nation and he was left to face the wrongdoings of his forefathers.

" Please have a seat Father" " I am honored, Your highness" " Would you like some refreshments father?"

Ikem declined and said as humbly as possible," Your majesty may Know I was an actor before coming to the palace" " Yes I know father, Mother told me how talented you are. I would be honored to enjoy your performance someday "

" Thank you Milord" " Father do you need something? " " I wish to ask your majesty a Question "

After almost 2 hours. Ikem came out of that room. He was sad. He knew his life was going to change fast. Maybe he was afraid.

Zuko immediately called Ursa into the throne room. Ursa, for the first time, was afraid of her son. She saw the fury once Uzai had in his eyes and the calmness she saw in Ikem's eyes. Zuko was burning like a cold fire. Steady but destructive. He just asked his mother

" Why did you do this to father?"

Ursa Instantly started sobbing. her legs gave in.

" Mother I was so desperate to meet you. I was so happy when I found you finally. But I decided to let you live your life. You decided against it. I was skeptical Mother. But I was also happy. Ikem was the father I always wanted. There was a time when I thought Ikem was my biological father. It made me happy ..."

Ursa kept sobbing. Suddenly Zuko felt annoyed. It was a long day for him. Being the Firelord was not easy. But now he was wasting his time with this woman. She can never do anything for him without hurting someone else. She always made horrible mistakes and never learned from them. Suddenly, Zuko realized he didn't need to go any further with this discussion. He started in a firm voice.

" Mother, Ikem has decided to give up his royal status and leave the palace forever. That also means he will be you guys will be separated according to the law. He wishes to have custody of Kiyi. If not allowed he requests visits once a month.

And as Firelord, I can not overlook that you overstepped your authority and did something only the Firelord has the authority to do."

" Zuko I did it for you. I knew Ikem wanting do his performances would affect your authority. I was thinking for you Zuko."

Zuko was annoyed. He simply ignored her. " As Firelord, I hereby revoke any authority you have and discharge you from all royal duties.

Ursa was dumbstruck. She expected Zuko to be emotional about it. But who knew he would go this far? Suddenly it hit her, what she had done. Ikem, the love of his life. She betrayed him. her Ikem who waited for her all his life.

Ursa left the room silently.

Zuko was sad. He thought he had a family back. He was the mighty Firelord but he was alone. His only real sister was a monster. His step-sister was hesitant, the person he looked up to as his father was now leaving. Zuko regrets trying to find Ursa. He felt guilty for breaking up their happy family. He loved them when they were Noren and Noriko. He still feels he wronged Kiyi.

Suddenly one of his generals entered the room in a rush. "Firelord! I have come to your behest""Speak" " Firelord, Princess Azula had escaped from boiling rock"