A/N: Thank you everyone for reading and being patient. Wow, it's almost been a year since I started this story and a crazy year at that. More to come, not to worry, I just have to get it out of my head and onto the computer. A huge thanks to my dear friend, NonFiction for beta-ing this for me and giving me inspiration. You guys really need to read Redemption. It's great, better than I could ever hope to write. So, please read, let me know what you think and enjoy. Hopefully I'll love your reviews so much that I'll write the next chapter within a week or two. Hey, I can dream, can't I?

Disclaimer: Don't own Avatar.

Chapter 19

Toph sighed as she leaned against Zuko on her couch. They were watching and listening to an older movie, but she really wasn't paying attention to it. It was getting late, but the storm had worsened and she could hear her mom talking with Iroh and Ursa in the kitchen and smelled hot tea as the adults waited for the storm to lessen. She knew that her cousin and Fong came out occasionally to check on them and offer them dessert, but she always declined and Zuko seamed to be far away and unresponsive. Toph knew he had a lot on his mind considering they had visited his sister four hours earlier, but he was still quiet, just an arm wrapped around her shoulder as they watched the movie. Zuko suddenly shifted and wrapped his arms around her waist, turning her back towards him as he moved to a more comfortable position on the couch.

"You ok?" Toph asked as she leaned back against Zuko, feeling how warm he was, even through her thick, long sleeved shirt.

"You really don't care?" he asked in a low tone and she heard a hint of uncertainty in his tone.

"About what?" Toph replied, starting to smirk. She knew she needed him to lighten up; he was way too somber, even for him. "Your attitude? Seen it, blew it off. Your temper? Been worse myself."

She heard him chuckle and leaned back so that her head was resting on his shoulder. She reached her left arm back and felt his whole body tense as she touched the left side of his face. "This?" she asked softly as she ran her fingers around his cheek to his ear before she started playing with his hair. "Why would I care about something I can't see or really feel? It's just a scar, just like these," she said as she moved her hand to a small cut at his temple and then dropped her hand to lay on his cast on his wrist. Toph then held up her own arm, hoping she was showing him the small burn on her wrist. "Besides, I have my own scars."

She felt him relax, but as he did so, her back started aching as it bent with his. Toph sat up and turned to him with a wry grin. "Lay down," she said and felt her grin widen as Zuko stayed where he was, his breathing becoming harder as if he had frozen or was thinking deeply. "It'll be more comfortable. Or…I can just use you as a pillow since I'm going to lie down."

She didn't hear a response, but then heard him move and felt his legs brush against her as he readjusted. Once she was sure he wasn't going to move anymore, Toph reached back and felt his stomach and grinned before she lay back down, snuggling her back closer to him and laid her head down on his arm.

"Wait," he said and she lifted her head as he reached for something. "Ok, now lay back down," Zuko said and Toph was pleasantly surprised to find a pillow on his arm and that it was indeed much more comfortable. Toph relaxed as she only kind of listened to the movie and rain pelting the windows and roof and instead focused on Zuko as his breathing evened out and she almost felt his heart beat against her back.

"You ok?" Toph asked again, knowing he was still brooding.

"I'm better now," Zuko replied and Toph frowned at how even his tone was and that he still seemed distant.

"No, you're not, not really," she stated and felt Zuko tense behind her. He remained silent and Toph waited a few minutes until he spoke again.

"I don't understand them," he finally whispered and Toph felt so sad as she heard confusion in his voice.

She just shrugged and scooted closer into the warmth Zuko gave off. "They're crazy, you're not. It happens."

Though she expected Zuko to relax and maybe even chuckle, all he did was tense more.

"I used to look up to him," Zuko said, a scowl in his tone. "I wanted to be like him. I adored him as she does."

"But you saw what he really was," Toph replied, trying to get her point across. "You're different."

Zuko wrapped an arm around her waist and drew her close to him. "Why do you always see the best in people? In me? What if one day I can't live up to it?"

Toph smiled and placed her hand on his. "Because everyone needs someone to believe in them. You are different, Zuko. Don't ever doubt yourself. You wanted to stop the pain and abuse your father started. You stand up for others. That is who you are."

Zuko was silent, but Toph felt him relax and then he drew her close as if hugging her.

"Thank you," he whispered into her ear and Toph smiled as she felt his breath on her neck before she yawned.

"Anytime, Sunshine. And if that didn't help, we can duke it out in the dojo."

She felt better as she heard him chuckle and he relaxed more. Toph did as well and smiled as she felt him relax further and by his breathing, she was sure he had fallen asleep. Knowing she had made him feel better, at least for the moment, Toph relaxed into her boyfriend, feeling her eyes start to close. She knew she should get up, that he would have to go home soon, but lying there with Zuko was just so comfortable and warm, Toph thought she could stay there a little longer.

XXXXX

Zuko woke suddenly as he heard rain pounding against the windows and roof and felt disoriented as he found himself lying on a couch and staring at a large TV and entertainment center as early morning light lit up the room. He hadn't realized he had fallen asleep on the couch with Toph, and was even more surprised that it was now dawn and no one had woken him to have him go home. He also noticed that a large, green blanket had mysteriously appeared on him as he glanced around.

"Good morning," he heard behind him and he sat up just in time to see Toph's mother approach him with two steaming mugs. "Here," she said, holding out one of the mugs to him. "It's a tea of my own blend,"

"Thanks," Zuko muttered, still confused at how civil Jasmine was being to him since he had accidentally slept at her house for the night. He remembered lying down with Toph and watching a movie as he drifted off and wondered where Toph was. He took a sip of tea and was surprised to find it a nice blend of jasmine, but not too strong. Setting the mug into his lap, he eyed Toph's mother again who seemed to be waiting for him. She was as lovely as ever in a green turtleneck and jeans and Zuko noticed a lot of the traits he found beautiful in Toph in her mother and knew that Toph was going to be even more gorgeous in a couple more years. "I'm sorry about falling asleep here," he started. "It won't…"

Jasmine waved it off and he stopped. "Your uncle and mother are here as well," she told him with a smile. "The storm was just too bad and still sounds terrible, though it has lightened since last night. With Ursa's poor health and you and my daughter tired out, we decided it would be ok if you all stayed over. Toph woke up later and I sent her to sleep in her own room while your uncle and mother are in some of the guest rooms. Do you like the tea?"

"Um…yeah. Thank you," Zuko replied, still taking the information in. He was surprised that he hadn't been kicked out, and thought that if Lao was there, he would have been kicked out the night before. Jasmine must have seen his thoughts on his face, for she smiled kindly after taking a sip of tea.

"Don't worry about my husband, at least until this weekend. He's just overprotective of Toph. He has always been that way, but I love him so much, I find it adorable," she said and Zuko stopped himself from scoffing at that remark. Finding over-protectiveness adorable was one thing, but coming from Lao Bei Fong? That was mind boggling. "I'm glad to find another early riser though," Jasmine continued, a twinkle in her green eyes showing that she understood Zuko's reaction.

"Doesn't your husband rise early?" Zuko asked hesitantly, remembering Lao greeting him once and always being gone whenever he and Toph had set off for school.

Jasmine merely sighed. "He does now, but it was hard for him in the beginning. He would much rather sleep in, but his business doesn't allow him that luxury. Unfortunately, Toph gets her sleeping habits from both sides of the family."

Zuko smiled along with Jasmine, knowing full well the lady was speaking of Jun as well as Lao. They were both silent as they continued to sip the tea, though Zuko noticed Jasmine studying him discreetly. He avoided her gaze as he continued to sip the tea, noticing that though it was still dark and gloomy outside, the sound of the rain wasn't quite as intense as it had been the night before

"There it is," she finally said, startling him. Jasmine leaned forward towards Zuko's right side and smiled. "You have your mother's nose and face. We were talking about how much or little our children were like us, and she said you were almost a spitting image of your father."

Zuko scowled and set his cup down onto the table next to the couch, "Thank you for the tea, Mrs…" Zuko stated coldly, starting to rise.

Jasmine stopped him by laying her hand on his arm gently. "I'm sorry Zuko," she said with a sympathetic look. "I don't know much about your family, but from what I have heard, you are nothing like him. You have your mother's strength and will, and your uncle's wisdom, even though you are still so young. I also heard my daughter talking to you last night and she is right. You are different."

Zuko stopped, studying Toph's mother. Her green eyes seemed to bore into him, much like Toph's did, and he could see that she knew he was different from his father. He continued to frown, but he wasn't scowling anymore and Jasmine smiled softly and removed her hand from his arm to hold her tea again.

"Actually, Toph is wiser than most give her credit for. I blame my uncle, Bumi," she said and Zuko waited, seeing where this would go. "He gave me some very wise advice once, and I'm sure he stole it from someone. 'Yesterday's the past, tomorrow's the future, but today is a gift. That's why it's called the present.' Basically, enjoy your life. You can't live in the past, nor know what's going to happen tomorrow. Your father may show up tomorrow, next month, next year, or never, but my daughter is wonderful at making people focus on the here and now."

Zuko nodded, drinking in Jasmine's words. She reached out and patted his cast. "The shower is the door on the left just before the dojo and Jun had Danny bring over a clean set of clothes for you and your traveling kit. They're next to the chair," she said, pointing towards one of the recliners in the room. Zuko watched her get up, still thinking on her words and noticed she paused before she left his sight. Turning back to him, she smiled again. "Do you have anything to wear to the tournament?"

"What? No, Mrs. Bei Fong. I don't," Zuko replied, his mind still churning over the quote she had given him.

Jasmine's smile widened. "Well, if you don't mind, I'd like to make something for you. I'm making Toph's gi and you've given me a great idea for yours. Would you mind?"

"No, not at all. Thank you, Mrs. Bei Fong," Zuko replied, smiling slightly at her and she nodded.

"I'll include Ursa too, I bet she has some wonderful ideas," Jasmine said to herself as she walked away.

Zuko was still thinking over the unusual conversation he had had with Toph's mother, but now that he was awake, his limbs itched to get moving. Sighing, he got up, setting the empty mug into the sink in the kitchen before he made his way as quietly as he could to the dojo. He smiled as he passed a closed door and heard his uncle's characteristic snores from inside and his smile widened when he spotted Nyla curled up in front of a doorway a little further down the hallway. Her eyes opened when he got closer and she lifted her head, looking at him quizzically, her ears cocked as if looking to see what he would do, but he merely motioned for her to stay and passed her. Glancing back at the dog before he reached the dojo, the scarred teen almost laughed as Nyla let out an unmistakable sigh before setting her head back down, though her eyes continued to stay on Zuko. He knew that where the dog was lying was the one place he wasn't permitted; Toph's room, and Nyla took her job very seriously even if she didn't like it. He quickly pushed that thought out of his mind as he entered the dojo and spotted the punching bag. With a sigh of regret, he moved to the mat and instead began working on his forms, focusing his mind on getting better as he moved and worked up a sweat.

As he practiced, his mind strayed again to the conversation he had with Jasmine, and especially the quote she had give him. He did recognize it and thought it fit Toph and the way she viewed life perfectly. She lived in the here and now, not focusing on the past or the future, though she was aware of those areas of her life as well. The more Zuko thought on it, the more he realized that Toph was like her mother in many ways, in probably the same ways he was like his own mother. He had hated being compared to his father for years, but that was all the FBI agents who met him ever saw; his father. But knowing his father and seeing his mother struggle and survive through so much gave Zuko a new appreciation for his mother. She had done it all for him and his sister, as ungrateful as Azula was. And he wasn't going to let his mother or uncle down. Iroh was more a father to him than his own had ever been and he knew his uncle loved him as a son. As Zuko heard other people getting up and moving throughout the house, he finished the form he had been working on and decided to adopt Toph's attitude towards life. He would live in the here and now, even though he would be mindful of the future and past. He had learned from the past and knew he would face his father eventually, but just spending time with Toph and his true family would be a gift for the moment. So, with a smile as he heard Jun greeting Iroh in a tired voice, Zuko made his way to the shower to get ready for an interesting day.

XXXXX

Toph was confused as she walked with Bato and Zuko towards the cafeteria for lunch. Though Bato stayed a respectable distance back, acting as if he was just heading the same direction as the pair, Toph knew he could hear most conversation. But the really confusing thing was Zuko's attitude. It was as if he had done a complete one-eighty from the day before. Where last night he was dark and brooding, today he seemed almost happy and carefree, actually chuckling at one of Aang's jokes. Before they reached the cafeteria, Toph stopped and walked directly to the side of the hallway, grabbing Zuko's jacket and pulling him with her as she did so.

"What's wrong?" he asked and she frowned before she stopped and turned towards Bato.

"I need to have a word alone with my boyfriend," she almost growled at the agent. She heard Bato shrug and keep walking, though she knew his step had slowed and as soon as Toph thought he was far enough away, she turned to frown at Zuko again.

"What? What's wrong?' Zuko asked, sounding utterly confused.

"You!" she hissed. "What's up with you?! You were darker than this damn storm yesterday and then you wake up bright and cheerful! Who are you and where's my boyfriend?"

Zuko just chuckled, and though Toph enjoyed the sound of his rare laugh, she continued to frown. She heard him shrug, and felt his jacket move against her hand as he did so when he answered plainly.

"I got some good advice and have a good example."

Toph just scowled more. "What's that supposed to mean?" she asked, feeling her patience growing thin.

"You," Zuko whispered and surprised her by wrapping his arms around her waist and drawing her in for a kiss. Toph pushed him back with her hand still holding his jacket and knew Zuko was smiling, even though she continued to frown.

"I still don't understand," Toph growled, though deep down, she was enjoying this new side of Zuko. But the weather was still making her sour and the early mornings weren't helping her mood, either. She needed answers and she was determined to get them.

Zuko sighed and seemed to relax, though he kept his hands at her waist, slowly moving his fingers against her hips. "Your mom shared some thoughts with me this morning, and gave me some good advice. Basically to live in the moment, like you do. So, I decided to take her advice." Toph continued to frown, though she was getting distracted by his hands and then his voice got low and sultry. "There's not anything wrong with that, is there?" he asked as he leaned towards her.

Toph didn't realize how close he was, or that she had let go of his jacket to move her hand onto his chest until she felt his breath on her face and smelled a faint whiff of cinnamon before he kissed her. And how passionate his kiss was! She felt like it was their first kiss, or the kiss in the greenhouse and she just melted into him. But just as she was starting to really enjoy herself, Zuko pulled away.

"Later," he said in a ragged tone, his breathing heavy as if he was out of breath and Toph realized she was also breathing heavily, probably as much as he was. "We still need to focus on today."

"Awwww," Toph whined, pouting out her lower lip. "I guess so. But this damn weather had better clear up soon. I don't know how much more of this dreariness I can take!"

Zuko just chuckled again, but at least his distracting hands fell away and she heard him shrug again. Toph heard him turn and start walking and she fell in alongside him, hearing Bato open the door to the cafeteria.

"How can you tell how gloomy it is?" Zuko whispered as they entered the cafeteria and made their way to the food line. Toph turned towards him in surprise, because, for a second, she had heard the heaviness in his voice that he had the night before. She wondered if the weather was affecting him like it did her, but that vanished when he spoke again. "I mean physically. You said you felt the temperature dropping and pressure changing. Is that it?"

"Yeah," Toph sighed as she smelled several plates of pizza and reached out, feeling for a plate until she found one and hurriedly picked it up. "The clouds just give this feeling of oppression and the rain hasn't let up a whole lot. I hate rain!"

"I know," Zuko replied, chuckling slightly as Toph heard him pick up his own food. "At least the weekend will be clear."

"Yeah, sure," Toph replied, dreading the coming weekend. Zuko was quiet as they paid for their food and started walking towards their table. Toph heard Jet talking amiably with his friends as they passed that table and she heard snatches of 'club' and 'fighting' and wondered how the club would react to Jet's re-appearance.

"What's wrong?" Zuko whispered after they passed Jet. Toph realized she had tensed and instantly dropped her shoulders, trying to appear more at ease.

"Nothing," Toph muttered.

"Today will be fine," Zuko said before sitting down across from Sokka and leaving room for Toph.

She just slid in next to him, hearing Sokka and Aang talking about options for people for the tournament as Katara was missing, though Toph heard her talking with Song and Ming about some defensive moves and dance at another table.

"It's not today that I'm worried about," Toph hissed to Zuko before she started on her pizza.

She heard Sokka and Aang stop talking and, for a second, wondered if there was anything being said among the guys with looks, but soon Sokka and Aang were talking again and Zuko was eating his food, though Toph heard him turn towards her several times as they ate their lunch.

"So what are you guys planning for this weekend?" Aang asked suddenly.

"Going away with the parents," Toph sighed. "Just like every year."

"Oh yeah," Aang said with an embarrassed laugh. "Forgot about that. Will you two be ok there?"

"Yeah, just don't mention it, ok?" Zuko said with a little bit of growl in his tone. Toph started to smile as her boyfriend warned Aang with his tone.

"Sure, no problem," Aang said with a smile in his tone. "Toph, you going to be ok this weekend? All that snow up there…"

"Wait," Toph said with a frown. "How much is up there?"

"They've been saying four feet currently, and they're expecting another two to three by the time the storm ends, tomorrow."

Toph just sighed in defeat and pushed her plate away, letting her head fall onto the table. She had hoped it would only snow a little, and that it would be clear by the time they got up there. But six feet? No way could they clear all that away by the time they got up there Friday night.

"What's wrong with snow?" Zuko asked and Toph turned to glare at him.

"It's worse than rain, that's what," Toph growled before she sat up again. "It muffles and distorts sounds, it falls off of trees, it's wet, and, it's damn cold! That's what's wrong with it!"

Zuko just chuckled. "Well, I'll have to find a way to make you like it more," he said and Toph turned towards him, trying to find out what he was talking about, but the bell just rang and she sighed.

"I don't know what you're talking about," she sighed as she picked up her backpack.

"It'll be a surprise," Zuko said as Aang hurried away. "I'll see you in gym."

"Yeah, see you," Toph sighed as she started walking out of the cafeteria.

"Hey, think about the club for now," Zuko called after her. "Don't worry about the weekend until it gets here."

Toph smiled as she walked out. Zuko's good mood was infectious, and he was right. It was her motto to live each day as it came and she would enjoy the club and maybe causing a little fun for herself at the meeting. She just had to think up a way and she had all of history to do that.

XXXXX

Zuko walked into the gym behind Katara and Aang who were carefully following Sokka. The scarred teen almost smirked every time Sokka glanced back to which Aang would instantly drop Katara's hand and both of them would turn bright red before Sokka shook his head in disgust and turn away from the couple.

"At least they're not as bad as some of the people in the halls," Toph muttered next to him.

Zuko glanced down at his girlfriend and smiled wryly. "We could always be worse and see what his expression would be."

Toph turned to grin at him. "I think he would try and punch you. But then he'd get his but handed to him by me."

Zuko chuckled and reached out, grabbing Toph's small hand and pulling her close to him as Sokka went to talk with Mr. Jeong and Katara and Aang quickly grabbed each other's hands again. He was glad Toph's mood had brightened since lunch, but the way she was grinning made him think that cheering her up may have been a bad thing. Her smiles were way too mischievous, even for her. With a shiver, he was almost reminded of Azula. But when Toph smiled at him again, he relaxed. There was way too much compassion and sincerity in Toph's face to even dare compare her to the girl he was forced to call a sister. With a wry grin, Zuko decided to tease Toph some more. He pulled her closer and leaned down towards her.

"You know it's worth it," Zuko whispered into Toph's ear and smiled when he saw her blush. He had to admit, she was really cute when her cheeks turned pink and he just relaxed and leaned against the wall in the back of the gym, still holding Toph's hand.

"Maybe, but not now," Toph whispered back and Zuko heard the entire gym quiet. He looked up towards the doors and saw Jet following his friends in. Everyone was watching him, including Mr. Jeong who was frowning slightly, but Jet avoided Zuko and Toph's gaze, instead following Smellerbee, Longshot and Pipsqueak to a corner and conversing with them as more people came in. Zuko noticed that Hahn came in just after Jet and frowned when he saw the spiky haired senior before he turned to glance Zuko's way. The scarred teen tensed and felt Toph tense since he was still holding her hand and Hahn just smirked.

"Remember, it's my turn to teach a lesson," Toph muttered darkly.

"Yeah, and it doesn't matter who to," Zuko remarked.

"Welcome back," Mr. Jeong stated, stopping all conversation and the heated whispers in the gym. "I have an announcement. As I said when we first started gathering, there are several martial arts tournaments this year and the one I had signed up for in December has been moved up to Thanksgiving weekend." Zuko heard many groans fill the room and, in a quick glance around, saw many disappointed faces. "We have ten available slots with two backup positions and those who can attend all three days of the holiday weekend and wish to participate should come see me after our meeting adjourns. You will need to have a permission slip signed by your parent or guardian and pay half of the fifty dollar entry fee." Mr. Jeong glanced around and smiled slightly at a few students. "For those of you doing poorly in math, that's twenty-five dollars."

Many chuckled at that and Zuko sighed as Sokka laughed outright, but Mr. Jeong just smiled more and continued. "Today I will be looking for potentials for the tournament, but we will try something new. For those of you interested in Bagua, see Aang at the far corner," the teacher stated, pointing to the corner in question. "Those interested in Tai Chi in the near corner. In Hung Gar, in the corner looking out upon the field and those interested in Northern Shaolin in the corner by the punching bag."

"Guess I gotta go," Toph sighed, slipping her hand out of Zuko's. She turned to grin at him. "Don't beat them up. Angie's got a few good moves and she's a good teacher."

Zuko just nodded and made his way to the corner as he saw Angie, Smellerbee and a few others he knew he had classes with, as well as a few he didn't know make their way over there. As he walked, he saw Hahn and Jet watching him through the shield his hair gave him as it hung over his scar, but ignored them, waiting to see where they would go. Hahn just glared his way before heading in Toph's direction and Jet started walking Zuko's way.

"Hey Jet!" Toph yelled suddenly. "You need to work on Hung Gar before you try any new stuff. Over here. Now!"

The scarred teen almost chuckled as Jet abruptly turned on his heel and made his way over to Toph, smiling at a few girls and joking with Longshot on the way. But Zuko saw the people waiting for him and started to frown, trying to keep himself from looking menacing. All eyes were riveted on him as he stopped before the small group, and he frowned more, noticing many eyes straying to his scar, especially from the people he didn't really know.

"Listen," Zuko stated as he heard Katara, Aang and Sokka starting to instruct their groups as Toph bellowed out orders to hers. "I don't really teach, but I'll improve your stances. Angie, why don't you instruct the moves and I'll improve techniques."

"I'll help too," Smellerbee offered, giving Angie and then Zuko an encouraging smile. "Though I'm here more to learn than teach."

Angie looked startled, gulped and then nodded when all the people's gazes shifted towards her.

"Ok then, we'll start out with the basics…" she said and started showing basic moves that led into an easy routine. As he said he would, Zuko moved among the group of nine, adjusting stances and showing a few how to do a maneuver properly as Angie and Smellerbee did, and he noticed a freshman who introduced himself as Shoji and a snotty junior named Hide who were actually pretty talented. After having to tell Shoji once how to do a move, he did it almost perfectly and always did better while Zuko noticed with increasing frustration that Hide acted like he knew it, but didn't seem to. Zuko barely held in his temper as Hide glowered back at him after the scarred teen had tried to show him how to kick and then punch better.

"Look, I know it, so stop bugging me," Hide remarked, blowing off Zuko. Zuko balled his fists up, trying to let go of his anger as he saw Smellerbee and Angie helping others. "Stupid scarface. Got a broken wrist and trying to teach me how to fight," he heard Hide remark under his breath. Zuko growled, gritting his teeth and was about to pull Hide down when Toph's voice rang out in his direction.

"Hey Sunshine! Bet my group can whoop yours!"

Zuko glanced over at her and saw a lot of frightened looking people glancing at him, Angie, Smellerbee and Toph, though a few, including Jet, were calm, at least on the outside. Zuko let out the breath he was holding when he saw Toph grinning mischievously and just nodded. Turning back to Angie, he addressed her.

"I'm up for it if you are."

Angie merely nodded and Zuko turned back towards his girlfriend. "You're on. Who against who?"

The other groups stopped paying attention to their teachers and look towards the middle of the gym as Toph brought her hand to her chin as if thinking.

"Three from each side, since that's about as many as I think are competent over here. I choose three, you choose three, and if we somehow tie, we go at it."

Zuko merely nodded. "Ok, you choose first,"

Toph turned back to her group. "Let's see…Longshot, Haru and…Jet." She turned back to Zuko. "Your turn."

He just smiled at her and turned towards Angie. "I'm thinking Smellerbee, Shoji and either you or this guy," he said, jerking his thumb towards Hide. "What do you think?"

"I agree," Angie replied, grinning. "And Hide, you're up against Jet," she said and Zuko thought he saw a malevolent spark in Angie's eyes as she settled her gaze on Hide. Zuko nodded, knowing Angie had gotten frustrated with the jerk as well since he refused to learn and kept trying to flirt with her, though in a condescending manner.

"Ok, first ones up," Toph stated and Zuko noticed the entire gym had stopped to watch as Longshot met his girlfriend on the mat in the center.

"You sure you're ok with this?" Angie suddenly asked from next to Zuko. He was surprised that he hadn't noticed her move, but brushed it off with a shrug.

"Some of them need to learn how to fight against others," he said, looking at Shoji, knowing the kid had potential, no matter how nervous he seemed. "And others need a lesson," he stated, glancing and frowning at Hide who turned just then to flash a dazzling smile at Angie who followed Zuko's gaze only to sniff and turn away from Hide with a frown. Zuko felt his frown grow when Hide sneered at him before focusing on the match. The scarred teen just sighed and glanced at Smellerbee and Longshot. What he saw drew him in and he watched the match earnestly. Smellerbee was vicious and attacked relentlessly, using a mixture of Northern Shaolin and Hung Gar, but also what looked like some Muay Thai moves thrown in. But though she was relentless in her attacks, her boyfriend was steady and stable, blocking and re-directing all of the should-have-been hits. It was obvious to all that they had sparred together often, and both knew each other's moves perfectly. Zuko looked at Toph after a few minutes of watching the couple and saw her blow her hair out of her eyes in a bored way. When Smellerbee jumped away from one of Longshot's rare kicks, Toph stepped up to them, stopping them both from going at it again.

"Well, as much as we'd all love to see this end, I don't think we can stay here all night," Toph drawled to which many people in the gym chuckled. "I call this a tie. Mustavo, you're up against tiny there," Toph said, pointing at Shoji. Zuko and Angie both turned to the freshman and the scarred teen noticed the poor kid sweating and gulping. Shoji glanced at them and Zuko tried to give the kid a reassuring smile, or at least not frown at him and saw Angie's face lighten and give the kid a thumbs up. Shoji nodded and stood straighter before he stepped onto the mat. Zuko turned to asses the kid's opponent and saw a senior with silky brown hair, the stuff most girls sigh over, and a silly looking mustache frown at Toph before he stepped onto the mat and smiled at Shoji before bowing. The freshman seemed more at ease as he bowed back and Angie leaned towards Zuko as they watched both Haru and Shoji start to spar.

"You think he'll last?" Angie whispered.

Zuko kept watching the two and noticed that though Haru was very skilled in Hung gar, he wasn't nearly as good as Toph, or even Longshot and Smellerbee. He was too confident about facing a smaller opponent, and though Shoji was hesitant at first, Zuko saw the freshman become more confident, especially after he used a move Angie had taught him and actually landed a kick on Haru.

"I think he'll win," Zuko stated and looked across the spar to his girlfriend. Toph seemed to be deep in thought, looking like she was studying the match with her head cocked as if she was listening to it intently. She smiled when Shoji landed another hit on Haru and Zuko wondered if she needed to teach the senior a lesson like Zuko was going to do to Hide. Zuko's attention was brought back to the spar when Haru reached too far, trying to hit the smaller boy and Shoji moved to the side and then hit downwards onto Haru's back, causing the senior to lose his balance and fall flat on his face.

"I call that a win in our favor," Zuko said with a small smirk towards Toph, but she merely grinned back and nodded.

"Sunshine's right, Mustavo," she said towards the center where Shoji was helping Haru up. "Let that be a lesson to you. Always, and I do mean always, stay low and centered. Your root is your base. Ok, Jerkwad, you're up."

Zuko saw Jet frown in Toph's direction, but merely shrugged and walked onto the mat, looking bored as he seemed to wait on Hide. But the scarred senior noticed that Toph wasn't directing the comment in Jet's direction, but was facing Hide and Angie seemed to brighten when she noticed Toph's grin.

"You heard him, Jerkwad," Angie said to Hide and Zuko heard a smirk in her tone. "Your turn."

Hide turned towards them and frowned, but flipped his hair out of his face and stepped onto the mat. As Hide and Jet bowed to each other, Zuko noticed Mr. Jeong pulling Sokka, Katara and Aang away and speaking with them quietly. Zuko just ignored it as Jet sank into a horse stance, facing Hide with a confident smirk.

"Come on, tough guy, let's see what you got," Jet said in an easy manner and Zuko smirked a little as Hide scowled.

"Yeah, you'll see what I've got. But you, you ran from a scarred jerk and a blind girl. I'll show you who's tough," Hide sneered to which Zuko frowned and noticed Toph scowling behind Jet.

"Show him what you learned, Tiger," Toph stated and Jet just smiled.

Jet just nodded and waited, and Hide seemed confused that his jeer hadn't prompted a response. Zuko was surprised as well, thinking Jet hot headed from his encounters with the spiky haired senior in the past, but that gave way to a new way of looking at the guy when Jet effectively blocked Hide's onslaught of haphazard kicks and jabs with a stable horse stance. As Zuko watched the pair spar, he noticed that the Jet he had faced a few weeks before had changed and grown. This Jet was more patient, waiting, though Zuko could see the spark of anger in Jet's brown eyes when Hide remarked lowly of Smellerbee. Within a blink of an eye, Hide was face down on the mat with his arm bent behind his back in a hold and Jet frowning on top of him with Jet's knee holding the jerk down.

"Don't talk trash about my little sister," Zuko heard Jet growl before the spiky haired senior got up and was smiling again. "I think that one is ours. So it's a tie," Jet said, studying Zuko.

"Guess so," Toph said with a smirk. "That means it's our turn," she said, turning to Zuko and grinning.

"If I may, Sifu Toph," Jet said humbly which surprised everyone there. "But your match with Zuko will probably be longer than Smellerbee's and Longshot's. You two were just about even last I heard and you'll go easy on him with his cast. Perhaps someone new?"

Zuko stopped, watching Toph's expression and knew there would be trouble.

"You're right," Toph said with a smile and Jet seemed to relax. "At least about it taking a long time. But I won't spar with Angie, we both know it'll be a short match. How about you and Sunshine? You ok with that Jet? You're tired and he's got a cast on. Just don't hit it or I'll hit you back."

The group chuckled, but Zuko tensed. He had seen Jet move differently, relying on Toph's teaching more than his old style, but that had disappeared when Hide had insulted Smellerbee. For a second, Zuko had seen the old Jet but with a purpose. Not just trying to bully somebody or try to charm an old girlfriend back, but a tough guy with a purpose. Almost reminded Zuko of himself.

"I'm up for it if you are," Zuko said, stepping onto the mat. "But yeah, watch the cast. I'd rather get out of it sooner than stay in it longer."

Jet seemed surprised by the turn of events, or even Zuko's acceptance, but shrugged and smiled an easy smile. "Ok, let's do this before we have to go."

"I'm afraid I'll have to interrupt," Mr. Jeong stated, moving to the center of the group. "Our time has come to an end and we will continue this next week." Many groans were heard, most especially from Toph, but Zuko and Jet both remained silent, glancing at each other warily. Both glanced back to the teacher to see Mr. Jeong studying them shrewdly before his face lightened. "Again, any who wish to compete must speak with me to get a permission slip and I will announce the team at our next meeting. Zuko, Toph, I need a word with you before you go."

Zuko nodded and glanced at Jet, trying to gauge the other senior's reaction. Jet just turned to him and shrugged, flashing Zuko an easy smile. "Guess we'll have to wait. Besides, I'd rather wait till you were out of that cast first. See ya around Scarface," Jet said before he walked off the mat, grabbing his shoes before picking up his backpack and walking out of the gym with Smellerbee and Longshot. Zuko just frowned after Jet and saw Toph walk up to him out of the corner of his eye.

"Aw, that was no fair. It would have been a pleasure to see you two at top form," she said with a smirk in her tone.

Zuko just frowned down at his girlfriend. He then held out his arm, flexing his right hand in the cast. "Yeah, that may have to wait a while."

Toph suddenly punched him in the arm, startling him and making him frown. She smiled and nodded her head to her right and Zuko saw Mr. Jeong speaking with Lee who looked disappointed and then frowning at Hide. When Lee left, Hide started looking superior, but then the gym teacher scowled and spoke, though Zuko couldn't hear the conversation over everyone else talking. Hide's smirk disappeared into a frown and then he stalked off, looking furious.

"What's up with him?" Zuko whispered to Toph.

"Jeong said no to the new Jerkwad," Toph replied, grinning. "Come on, we need to talk to him."

Zuko stared after Toph and just shrugged before following his girlfriend to Mr. Jeong. They waited patiently for a few freshmen and sophomores to finish talking to the teacher before Mr. Jeong noticed them and smiled at them.

"That was quite a display of patience on Jet's part. My thanks to you Miss Toph," Mr. Jeong stated and Zuko noticed Toph blushing.

"I think that was mostly do to Sunshine here a few days ago, but he is a surprisingly good student," Toph said with a shrug, ducking her head to try and hide her blush behind her bangs.

"Yes, he is. I wanted to speak with you two and your friends before you left, but Sokka and Katara had to leave early for her dance class," Mr. Jeong said. "Perhaps I could meet with you all after school tomorrow."

"Sure, just have to check with my escort," Toph said, jerking her thumb subtly towards the door where Zuko saw Jun and Fong waiting.

Mr. Jeong just nodded, looking like he was thinking. "Of course, let me know in gym, or I can just check with them later."

"Yeah, whatever," Toph said with a smile before turning to Zuko. "Coming Sunshine? I can't wait to get home where it'll be nice and warm."

Zuko just nodded and turned to follow Toph to Jun and Fong. "What was with the new nicknames?" he hissed to Toph after they passed a group of freshmen. The way Toph had talked to Jet had showed some respect on her part, and he wondered what the guy had done to deserve it.

"Oh, well, he wasn't being a jerk like that other guy. And his style reminded me of a tiger," Toph said. "He also did a great impression of Tony the Tiger before I made him go flat on his face," she said with a grin in Zuko's direction. He relaxed slightly, but continued walking. "I think he'll be good at the tournament. What about you?"

"Definitely better than that jerk, Hide," Zuko said before they met up with Jun.

"Ready you two?" Jun asked.

"Yep," Toph said with a grin before that faded for a second. "Just one more day until this blasted storm is over and then the oh so glorious long weekend."

Zuko chuckled as sarcasm dripped from Toph's mouth and she looked at him, questioning him with her expression.

"Relax, I'll make it better, trust me," he said with a small smile and Toph just sighed.

"You better. You're the only reason I'm not fighting the annual va-ca," she said with a sigh as they left the gym.

A/N: Just to let you guys know, Lee is the freshman who was in the advanced group, the one with the older brother in the army (Zuko Alone) and Shoji and Hide are characters from The Headband. Shoji is the small kid who befriended Aang and Hide is On-Ji's so-called boyfriend. I think they'll be nice additions to the drama, don't you? Well, don't forget to review, cause I have a lot of fun in store for the 'weekend'