Hey guys sorry I'm a little late with the new chapter but yeah I had college stuff to. Thank you so much to the recent reviews and favorites to chapter 2 and the story as a whole :) From this point on I'm trying to get into the true plot of the story. As always please review.
Disclaimer: Avatar: The Last Airbender, Legend of Korra and these amazing characters are not mine, they belong to the awesome duo that is Bryke and to Nickelodeon.
The next morning was slow and pleasant. Sokka and Toph spent their quiet Saturday morning lazing in bed, enjoying each other's presence. He even went out to buy food so they could have breakfast in bed.
Lin came home for lunch as promised and the little family spent the rest of the afternoon together. Toph and Lin ran some earthbending drills for a few hours while Sokka took advantage of the leisure time to clean and polish all his weapons.
As soon as he finished polishing boomerang, the girls were finished with training. That night they were heading over to Air Temple Island for a reunion of the old gang. Even Zuko was taking time out of his busy schedule to bring his family for a visit.
As they waited at the docks for the boat that would take them to the island, Toph sighed heavily. "Why did they have to live on a freaking island? I can't see on the boat. I hate being on the water almost as much as I hated flying."
Sokka chuckled as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "Katara said they wanted to be out of the public's eye. They get enough media attention as it is. Plus Aang and his air traditions. You know airbenders were privacy freaks with their temples and their personal lives. Besides, it could be worse. He could've tried building a house in the sky."
Toph cracked a small smile as Lin giggled beside them.
"Yeah Mom, they just don't want to be in the city all the time," interjected the younger Beifong. "Besides Uncle Zuko's coming! I haven't seen him or Aunt Mai in almost two years. And they're bringing Ursa!"
Sokka smiled softly as his little girl jumped up and down excitedly, going on and on about all the fun things she wanted to do with her surrogate uncle and cousin. Since all the members of Team Avatar were so close, it seemed only natural their children would be as well.
Lin and the cloud babies all loved Ursa. They cherished their time with her even if they rarely saw her, considering how the royal family had to stay in the Fire Nation. Zuko truly became Sokka's most trusted friend outside of Aang. And he was happy that the kids cared for his best friend's daughter like family.
As he, Toph, and Lin boarded the small vessel and departed into the bay, the warrior starred out into the coastline as Lin dragged Toph to another part of the deck, enthusiastically telling her mother about her plans for the night.
I can't believe it's been over 25 years since we ended the war, he contemplated. We've all come a long way. Building the Republic, keeping peace, making our own families. Aang and Katara have three kids. Zuko and Mai have Ursa and another fire baby on the way. And Toph had Linny.
Sokka watched with amusement as the daughter looked over the railing of the boat while the mother covered her mouth, attempting not to get sea sick.
The tribesman moved his line of sight out into the distance again, where he could faintly distinguish the island appearing.
All of them with their kids and having their perfect marriages. Well Toph didn't, but at least she had a child to love. It makes me wonder, what could've been. Maybe I could've had a child of my own, with her.
The councilman was quick to shake such thoughts out of his mind and frowned.
That's the past, he told himself. There's no point in what ifs. She chose her path and I chose mine. Sure I would've loved a child of my own blood. But that's not what counts. Besides, I already am a father.
He gazed at the girl who was again dragging her dizzy mother around the boat.
Lin is my daughter. And I'm grateful that she accepts me as her father figure.
Sokka cringed as he heard Toph empty out her stomach contents over the side of the boat. He silently walked over to help her, placing his coat around her shoulders as a small comfort.
"You okay baby?" he asked worriedly.
Once she felt a bit more at ease, Toph lightly punched Sokka's right arm and wrapped his coat more securely around her shoulders. "I'm fine, Snoozles. Just lost my lunch is all. I hate boats."
The tribesman rubbed her back soothingly. "I know but we're almost there. I'll ask Katara to make you some willow tea to calm your stomach. Maybe I can see if we can spend the night so you don't have to puke again tonight. Later I'll give you a back rub. What do you say?"
"This is why I fucking love you, Meathead," she laughed.
"Well I do need to repay you for last night. And this morning's awesome round. I'm still kind of sore," he smirked.
"Damn right you do."
The boat finally came to a halt at the docks of Air Temple Island. Lin ran ahead of her parents as they walked off deck.
The couple took their time reaching the temple as they passed by the courtyard and airbending training grounds. It was only about seven o'clock and they had all night to laugh and catch up with everyone.
Once they reached their destination, Aang was in the door way greeting Lin. As soon he withdrew from an embrace with his surrogate niece, he smiled when he saw his two old friends.
"Hey Sokka, Toph, about time you guys got here! Everybody's here, even Zuko and Mai. Come on."
Toph casually walked up to him once Lin sped inside and punched the tall Avatar in the arm. "Nice to see you too, Twinkle Toes!"
The airbender rubbed his sore arm. He never did get used to her bruising displays of affection.
"Hey Toph, nice to see you still haven't changed."
"Never!" she laughed. "Come on Snoozles, I want to go see Sparky."
Sokka simply rolled his eyes and smirked. He strolled over to the door and gestured formally with his arms. "Of course, right this way. After you, Melon Lord, your melonness."
Toph bursted out laughing as she happily obliged and Aang simply groaned.
"Come on, Sokka, not that ridiculous Wang Fire voice. It wasn't funny then and it isn't funny now. And you're missing the-" The Air Nomad cut off his protest as he watched Sokka stroke his goatee with a grin.
"Please tell me that isn't why you grew the goatee. Just to stroke it when you do that voice."
The tribesman simply shrugged as he gestured to Aang. "This way, your airbending majesty. I do hope my dear sister Sapphire Fire has supper ready."
Aang face palmed as he entered the temple. Wang Fire laughed as he stroked his beloved facial hair on e more before following his brother-in-law.
Everyone was in the living room of the Avatar's simple yet comfortable home. Lin was already with the other Team Avatar offspring huddled in a corner, excitedly telling Ursa all that she'd missed since her last visit. Katara was telling Aang to help her in the kitchen and Mai and Zuko were sitting on the couch. Zuko smiled as he placed a hand on his wife's pregnant stomach.
Sokka tugged Toph along with him over to where the Fire Nation rulers were currently sitting.
Zuko had changed a lot over the years. He had grown taller since his coronation and was considered rather towering and intimidating, much like Aang. He had broad, strong shoulders and a good amount of muscle added to his tone figure from years of firebending and sword practice. His jaw was more defined and angular, his cheekbones longer, and his face even more handsome. The Fire Lord had also let his hair grow out, now reaching his shoulders. His hair was up in the traditional royal top knot, the fire crown momentarily absent. He wore luxurious blood red robes and black combat boots. The old scar on his face had faded a bit with time, now only a light shade of red. Though he hated to admit it, Zuko now bore an uncanny resemblance to his father Ozai.
Mai had grown into a beautiful woman with a more shapely figure (well when she wasn't hugely pregnant). Her hair had grown down to her mid back and she now wore a top knot as well instead of the usual style she wore in her youth. Her face was more defined, with larger cheekbones and a more shapely nose. The Fire Lady was very beautiful. Her outfit was red as well, the signature color of the fire royal family. She had on just a touch of eye shadow, enough to really bring out the color of her ember eyes.
"Zuko! Mai! Long time no see!" exclaimed the tribesman excitedly as he approached them.
"Yeah Sparky, it's been like a year since I've seen either of you," added the Republic's Police Chief.
Zuko immediately stood up and embraced his best friend. It was quick and brief, for they were both reluctant when it came to hugs. But it was a very manly embrace, mind you.
Once the friendly contact ended, and Toph stepped forward to give Zuko the usual love punch and a quick hug as well, Zuko smiled. "It's been too long guys! Sorry I've been so absent, but I've had so much work you wouldn't believe. The new tax laws have been a real challenge to get passed. Mostly because of the stuck up nobles in the Fire council."
Sensing the second heartbeat in Mai with her bending, Toph smirked knowingly. "Oh you've been busy alright, Sparky. And not just with Fire Lord stuff. You were busy knocking Mai up again. No wonder we didn't hear from you for months!"
Both the Fire Lord and Lady blushed at the crude statement made by the blind earthbender. Sokka simply held his stomach as he erupted with laughter at the look on his firebending friend's face.
Zuko shifted uncomfortably from one foot to the other and cleared his throat. "Yes, uh, well, we um," stuttered the flustered Fire Lord. "We weren't really planning on another baby. But well, Agni willed it, so here we are."
Once he regained his usual regal demeanor, Zuko turned around and offered a hand to his Fire Lady. Mai accepted it gladly and stood up with difficultly, one hand holding Zuko's while the other clutched her huge stomach, trying to balance herself.
"Nice to see you guys," she said offering a small, yet rare smile when she was finally able to stand properly. "And yeah, we weren't really planning on it. Especially not now with Ursa getting into her teenage years. But hey, maybe this'll make things easier for my dear husband, who will be too busy with the baby to set anything that comes near Ursa on fire."
The Fire Lord fixed his wife an annoyed glare, one that said they'd discuss that comment later, and turned to his friends.
"Anyway, I've missed you guys. When Katara called last week asking if we could come for a reunion, how could we refuse? Agni knows we could use some time away from advisors and nobles with silver spoons too far up their asses." This got a chuckle out of Sokka and Toph. "And I need to do some business here so we'll be in the city for about a month."
"Can you go that long without flipping out about something happening at the Fire Nation?" inquired the Police Chief.
The firebender glared at Toph while crossing his arms over his broad chest. "My uncle is keeping an eye on things for me at the palace. And Ursa is on break from the academy, so it was a good time for all of us to come."
"That's great! We'll be working together again, like in the good old days! Where are you guys staying?" said Sokka.
"Katara insisted we stay here for the weekend. After that we have a suite set up at the Fire Nation Embassy," replied the Fire Lord's wife.
"Aang tried getting us to stay here for the whole month, but we couldn't impose. Besides, I need to be close to the embassy, available in case anything serious happens back home," the firebender told them.
The councilman nodded. "Well I have a council meeting about the tariffs on Fire Nation imports next week. Want to tag along? The council could use your input."
"Good idea. Now with the tax laws in place in the Fire Nation, I need to focus on the relations with the nation I helped build," stated the monarch.
Just then, Katara walked into the main room with Aang following closely behind. She hugged her brother and friend and called for the kids to come over and greet their uncle and aunt.
The gang's children all lined up to see the late comers of the reunion. Bumi stepped forward and fist pounded his favorite uncle.
"Uncle Sokka! Haven't seen you around. When are you gonna finish my sword lesson?" asked the Avatar's son eagerly.
Bumi was the oldest of the cloud babies at 15, going on 16 years of age. He had Katara's tan skin, round face, and nose. He also had Aang's dark hair, smile, and stormy gray eyes. His rambunctious and trouble making personality was a combination of his father and uncle in their youth. With Bumi being the only non-bender of his family, he was very attached to his sword master uncle. He looked up to Sokka.
Sokka chuckled and ruffled Bumi's unruly hair. "Next week, Bum. Maybe you'd want to come by one of my classes at the centre? My top student, Yun could use a suitable sparring partner and you're getting pretty good."
Bumi fist pumped in victory and everyone chuckled. He turned to Toph. "Hey Aunt Toph!"
Toph simply offered him a small smile in greeting and ruffled his hair.
Kya came up next, hugging both Sokka and Toph while giving them a small smile. Sokka had a soft spot for his niece, who was practically Katara's spitting image. They had the same skin, only Kya's was a tad lighter, the same facial structure, the same hair and cerulean eyes. The only physical traits she seemed to have from Aang were her smile, the shape of her eyes and her nose. However, the young Waterbender definitely had an airbender's personality, with her love for peace and a wanderlust for travel. She enjoyed meditating with her father and preferred healing over combat waterbending. She was a true Air Nomad at heart.
The 13-year-old smiled. "Uncle Sokka! Aunt Toph!"
The couple chatted with the Waterbender for a bit about school.
Tenzin came up to the couple, bowed, then awkwardly hugged them. The young airbender was Aang's spitting image with that face and those gray eyes. He was even wearing a more modern version of Aang's Air Nomad outfit from during the war.
The boy greeted them and turned to go back to conversing with Lin. Tenzin was a boy of few words, unless it was with Lin or his father.
Finally, the Fire Nation princess made her presence before the Police Chief and Councilman.
"Uncle Sokka!" she engulfed Sokka into a bear hug. He smiled and hugged back. He hadn't seen his fire niece in a long time.
Princess Ursa was the perfect combination of her parents. She had inherited Zuko's stunning golden eyes, his smile, and his raven hair. The princess also donned Mai's facial structure, chin, nose, fair skin, and womanly figure. The 13-year-old was a firebending prodigy, being taught by the Fire Lord's hand and was currently learning Mai's mastery of shuriken and throwing knives. When deemed ready, Zuko would teach her how to handle his trademark dual swords.
"Hey fire squirt!" said the swordsman as he got a good look at his friend's daughter. "Man you've gotten big since I last saw you. How's royalty life treating you?"
Ursa giggled. "Good, Uncle. I'm just happy to be here, it took Dad forever to finally let us come. I really wanted to come see everyone." She turned to Toph and gave her a hug as well. "Hi Aunt Toph!"
"Hey fire girl," chuckled the Chief. "So you're gonna be a big sister. How's that feel?" Using her bending to sense where Mai was, Toph gestured to the pregnant Fire Lady with her hand.
"I think it'll be cool to have a little sibling. I've been on my own a long time. Hey maybe it'll keep my dad busy so he's not firebending at all my guy friends for no reason!"
Everyone except for Zuko laughed. Even Mai giggled at her daughter's remark.
"Well if I have to go through this again, I hope it's a boy this time," mumbled the brooding monarch as he sat back down.
"I'd rather have a sister," the princess informed them. "It's awesome to see you guys!"
Kya then came and tugged on her friend's arm as they ran off with the rest of the children to hang out in Kya's room. While the princess was close with all the other kids, she and Kya were the best of friends.
The Avatar's wife came back into the main room. "Dinner will be ready soon, guys, just waiting on the haunch to cook properly," Katara told the group.
After a while of chatting, the family came in and they all had a delicious dinner of lion-deer haunch, dumplings, komquats, and a large salad for the resident airbenders.
After dinner, the kids went back into Kya's room to hang out. The adults decided to follow suit and sat in the living room.
"So guys, I did bring a little something from home," declared the fire master proudly as he reached into a bag. "Fire Nation red wine. But not just any mind you, it's the royal brand, in storage for over 10 years."
Toph and Sokka were practically drooling. They loved red wine.
Aang helped Zuko serve and handed a glass to each of the group. Everyone except for a pregnant Mai, who opted to sipping leechee juice in her glass instead.
Aang sat down and raised his glass. "It's been a long time since we've been able to get together like this. And even though we have separate lives and responsibilities, we know deep down we'll always be those kids who were running around trying to stop a war. We'll always be family."
Sokka raised his glass enthusiastically. "To Team Avatar!"
"To Team Avatar!" they all cheered.
"And to Sifu Hotman who finally found time to visit!"
"Aang! For the love of Agni, stop calling me that!"
The group laughed at the poor ruler's expense.
"That never gets old!" claimed the Avatar.
The group drank their wine and continued to chat for a few hours.
"So what's it like being pregnant again after so long?" asked the Waterbender. "I had three kids, but they weren't more than a few years apart. And I'm not having anymore."
Aang smirked as he coiled an arm around his wife's shoulders. Katara leaned into his embrace and rested her head on his strong shoulder.
After taking another sip of her juice, Mai spoke. "Well I was kind of shocked at first. I mean I thought we were done with kids altogether once Ursa got to be a preteen. But then when she was 12 my dear husband seduced me, and I ended up with this," she gestured to her stomach.
Aang looked at the man in question. "How about you, Zuko? Are you excited to be a daddy again?"
Zuko gave him am uneasy smile but then quickly relaxed when his wife grabbed his hand and set it on her stomach. He felt the baby kick against its father's touch and his smile grew genuinely.
"I was scared out of my mind at first. I mean I was with Ursa, too. I don't want to be like Ozai in favoring one child over the other. But I've done a good enough job of being different with Ursa. So I think we'll be fine. And I can't wait to meet my second child."
The baby again kicked against Zuko's warm hand. "And nothing can beat feeling this again. Feeling that the little thing in here is a part of me. It's like the baby already knows me. This one kicks a lot more than Ursa did."
"Do you know if it's a boy or girl yet?" questioned Toph as she sipped more wine.
Mai shook her head. "The healers back home couldn't tell yet, it was too soon. But I don't care what it is, as long as the baby's healthy."
Zuko removed his hand from the bugle that was his growing child and pulled Mai closer to him. "Personally, I'd like a son. And not because I'm the traditional sexist ruler who needs a male heir. I love my daughter, and she will take my place when I'm gone. But if I have to go through a child hitting puberty again, when I won't be as young as I am right now, I'd rather it be easier on me."
The group laughed at the entertaining comments made by the fire couple.
Katara grabbed her water skin from a nearby table and opened it. "If you guys want, I can use my healing and tell you what the baby's gender is. You're about seven months along now, right?"
The Fire Lady nodded.
"Perfect then it'll be easy."
Zuko and Mai looked at each other momentarily but then nodded their heads in approval.
Katara smiled and bended the water around her finger tips over Mai's stomach. The water turned a silvery gray and shinned a crystal clear color as the master healer worked.
After a moment of silence, Katara withdrew the water back into the water skin and grinned. "Congratulations guys, it's a boy!"
The group broke out in excited chatter and Zuko hugged his wife tightly, trying to keep his arms around her without crushing her belly.
Mai crushed her lips to Zuko's and kissed him passionately. Once they broke the kiss, Zuko put his hand back on her stomach and leaned down.
"I knew it! Hey Son, come to the world soon, I need more guys around the palace. You'll keep me sane while your sister has mood swings and is going out with boys I'll need to burn," he told his unborn son.
Mai giggled.
"Congrats buddy!" Sokka clasped his friend on the shoulder. "We need more boys in the group! Do you think he'll be a firebender?"
Zuko grinned. "I think it's too early to tell, Sokka. But I definitely have hope! I thought Ursa would firebend and I was right that time."
"So have you guys thought of any names yet?" questioned the Air Nomad.
Zuko finished off his wine. "Well we came up with names for both since we hadn't known the gender yet."
"If it had been a girl, I liked the name Maya. But since it's a boy, I told Zuko he could name the kid."
"You know he named the last one too, right?" Toph pointed out. "Sparky already gave Ursa his mom's name. Don't you think you should name this one?"
Mai smirked. "I was actually the one to suggest Ursa when our daughter was born. I know how much he loved his mother. Besides, Zuko picked a good name for our son."
"Well, let's hear it. What's Sparky Junior gonna be called?" grinned the earthbender.
"We'll I'd asked Uncle if it turned being a boy, if he'd let me name him Iroh. i mean my uncle is practically my father. But he said he didn't wamt to impose and declined. So I did the next best thing to honor him. I asked if I could name the baby after his son, my cousin Lu Ten." Zuko smiled sadly. "He got all teary and happy. So Lu Ten it is for this little guy."
Toph scoffed. "Geez none of you people are creative with names for your kids. Bumi after Aang's crazy friend, Kya after Sokka and Katara's mom, Ursa for Zuko's mom, now this new kid after your cousin? Come on! At least I was original in naming Lin. Even Aang was creative with Tenzin."
"I named him Tenzin because within the Air Nomads, it means "keeper of the faith." Being the first airbender born in over a century, he's the keeper of the faith of my people. I was gonna name him Gyatso, but Tenzin seemed more appropriate," the Avatar remarked.
"And," interjected Zuko. "We've all had people who have had lasting affects on us. That's why we name our kids after them."
The group continued their discussion on babies and fond memories of the early days of the Republic.
In the other room, the kids were talking about their plans for the month of the royal family's stay.
"It's awesome to have you back, Ursa!" exclaimed Kya as she hugged her best friend. "I'm so happy you'll be here for a while."
The princess smiled. "I know. I finally got my dad to bring me. He's been so overprotective lately, especially with the baby coming."
Bumi raced into the room, nearly tripping over Tenzin.
"Hey!" protested the airbender.
The non-bender simply ignored his baby brother and sat down. "Guys I was in the kitchen getting the komquats," he paused to hand everyone a fair amount. "And I overheard our parents talking. Mom used her healing on Aunt Mai. Ursa, you're gonna have a brother!"
The group of kids cheered but the princess simply sighed.
Kya put her hand on her friend's shoulder. "Don't you want a brother?"
The princess took a bite of her komquat as she turned to her friends. "I do want a sibling. But I don't know, Dad seemed really set on having a son. Maybe he'll love the kid more than he does me. I know Mom will be the same with me. But my whole life I've been my dad's everything. He's always been there. Now he's excited for the baby. I feel like he might forget about me."
"Ursa," began the prodigy Waterbender. "You know all your dad went through with his own father favoring his sister over him, right? The first thing my mom told me he said when you were born was he wanted to be different. He'd never forget you just cause he's excited about your brother."
Bumi nodded and offered her a goofy smile. "Besides! He already named you his heir, right? He can't change it now!"
"Technically," the junior airbender corrected. "He can. According to law, as fire lord, he can change who he names as his heir at any time when-"
Lin smacked the airbender over the head in frustration.
"Ow!"
"Not helping!" She told him.
"I guess you guys are right. Dad said he wanted to be the father of the first Fire Queen in generations. The last one was Fire Lady Zelda, Sozin's grandmother," said the crown princess. "And he hasn't acted any different with me since they found out about the baby."
"I heard your dad is gonna name him Lu Ten," said Bumi as he stuffed his face with more komquats.
"Yeah, after his cousin," confirmed the princess.
"At least your dad spends time with you and teaches you firebending. Mine only spends his time teaching Air Head. He's too wrapped up in Tenzin being an airbender," commented Kya dryly.
"That's not true. Our father spends time with us equally," claimed Tenzin as he crossed his arms in defiance.
"I know he loves us. But it's true, Air baby. He only spends time teaching you. At least Kya has Mom. Neither of them try teaching me any moves. Uncle Sokka is the one who actually takes the time to train me," Bumi added.
"Well he teaches a lot of people," Tenzin pointed out.
The brothers began to bicker as the girls watched them in amusement.
Ursa turned to Lin. "And you're learning earthbending from the best. You're lucky to have a mom as skilled as Toph."
Lin nodded. "She can be kind of rough in training, but my mom pushes me cus she wants me to be ready when it's time for me to learn Metalbending. And Sokka trains me too, he's teaching me to fight. He says it's in case there's ever a time I can't use my bending."
"See!" Bumi yelled. "That's my point. Dad could do that with me. Teach me some moves. But no he won't, he only does with his baby airbender."
"Okay guys, enough. How about we go for a walk around the courtyard? It'll help us calm down," offered Kya. She was like her father, always being the peace mediator between her siblings.
Bumi and Tenzin glared at each other but finally agreed.
They all walked out into the living room where their parents were currently laughing at Toph's story about the Triad who pissed his pants in his holding cell.
"Where are you guys going?" demanded the Fire Lord.
"Bumi and Tenzin were kind of fighting, so Kya suggested we go for a quick walk around the temple to relax," answered his daughter.
"Alright, but be careful," said Aang. "Be back in half an hour okay?"
The kids agreed and bid their farewells as they exited the temple.
Once the kids returned, everyone sat down to finish the night together.
Bumi sat beside his mother telling the group jokes that had Sokka breathless with laughter. Kya sat between her parents, giving Bumi annoyed glances every few minutes. Tenzin sat to the left of his father, telling him about the latest airbending move he was attempting to master.
Lin sat snuggled to her mother's left side as Sokka sat on Toph's right, rubbing her back gently.
Ursa sat on her father's right, listening intently as Katara told them about the latest things that were going on in the city. Zuko only half listened as he continued caressing Mai's stomach, thinking about all the things he wanted to teach his son.
By the time it was one in the morning, the kids were sent off to sleep. All the adults were tipsy and in no condition to get a boat ride to the city, so it was decided everyone would spend the night.
Katara settled Kya and Ursa in Kya's room, as the two best friends had practically begged to share a room. Bumi would have to share his room with Tenzin so Lin could take the airbender's. Now that the kids were getting older, Katara and Sokka were uneasy with Lin sharing a room with Tenzin, even if they were supposely only close friends. They wouldn't allow it.
Mai and Zuko were settled into the larger guest room close to Aang and Katara's so they could be comfortable. Toph and Sokka were given the smaller guest room further down the hall by the kids.
Once the kids were situated in their individual sleeping quarters, the gang bid each other good night.
Mai was tired from the trip to the Republic and so was led by Zuko to their room. Katara opted to go take a bath before bed and Aang went out to check Appa's stable before locking up for the night.
Toph decided to undress and simply sleep in Sokka't tunic, as they had no night apparel. Not that he minded of course, he always slept shirtless. And he loved seeing all her curves through his shirt.
Sokka began massaging the blind woman's shoulders as he'd promised. She groaned with pleasure as he worked the knots out of her tense neck and shoulder blades.
Once he finished, Sokka planted a kiss to her lips and Toph depended the kiss before yawning.
"I'd love to have another round, Snoozles, but the walls here are too thin. And I'm really tired and kinda drunk. I'll talk to you tomorrow," she said sleepily as she snuggled under the blankets.
"That's fine. I'm gonna go for a quick walk, you go to sleep." He kissed her temple and slipped on his coat.
The tribesman quietly made his way to the main room where he saw Zuko coming down as well.
"Zuko? I thought you guys were in bed."
The Fire Nation ruler turned to face his friend. "Oh hey. Mai was exhausted, had her feet swollen. I guess Lu Ten is being difficult tonight. I had to give her a foot rub so she'd finally fall asleep." He paused as he noticed the pensive expression on the Water Tribe man's face. "But I was going for a walk. Care to join? You look like you have something on your mind."
"Sure. I just need to get some air." Sokka followed Zuko and the two walked silently out of the temple, heading into a nearby courtyard.
It was a cold night in Republic City. The temperature was quickly dropping and a light breeze blew through the island. There was only a half moon out and a few twinkling stars, but it was enough to illuminate their path.
The monarch and councilman came to a stop as they basked in the silence for a moment. Finally, it was Zuko who broke it. "So how's everything been here? I'm sorry I haven't been available for a while. But you know I'm still here as your friend. You've been a little distant tonight. Do you want to talk?"
He gave his friend am appreciative smile. "Thanks, Zuko. I'm glad you're here. But nothing's really wrong. I just, I've come to make a decision. Thing is, I don't want to get hurt again. I don't know how to go through with it," confessed the warrior.
The firebender nodded. "By now, at least some of Uncle's wisdom has rubbed off on me. If you want to talk, I'll listen. And I promise to give better advice than the silver sandwich."
Sokka laughed at the memory. Zuko had never been one too keen on emotional advice. But he's improving with age.
"Okay. Well you know I love Toph. And I know she loves me. And I hadn't done this before, because I didn't want to get hurt. I didn't want her to regret our relationship either if I did this. But I want to ask her to marry me."
Zuko's eyes widened in surprise for a moment before a smile graced his lips. "Congratulations, Sokka. That's great. But why are you scared? If you guys love each other, there should be no-"
Sokka raised his hand to cut him off. "I know we love each other," interrupted the tribesman. "But you remember how my last marriage ended, right? It was painful. And Toph's civil marriage ended badly too. It's something we've never really talked about. We both knew we weren't ready for that and we didn't need that to be happy. But now we've been together for ten years. I think we can move past it. And I want to make a more serious commitment to her. I want to prove to her that she and Lin are not just my rebound life, or comfort."
Zuko listened intently, realization dawning on his handsome features. He stepped forward and placed a comforting hand on his best friend's shoulder.
"Sokka. That's in the past. The scars, the wounds from our past, are what shape us to be the people we are now. I would know." He briefly set a hand over his age old scar. "I understand you've both been hurt. But you've been together a long time now. You know each other's strengths, flaws, weaknesses, comforts, fears. You love and support one another. You're the capable parents Lin needs. You've made it work. Now I think the love you found in each other has healed your old wounds. It's time to move forward. If you love her, propose. You'll know what to say. Take her out. Romance her. Tell her what you've been feeling, what you're telling me right now. And don't look back. Take the leap. Embrace your pains, they make you you. Understand your mistakes and downfalls, they shape your life, they give you the strength to correct yourself, to keep moving, to live. I thought I could never be a good father because of Ozai. You were a witness to my fear. But once I held Ursa in my arms for the first time, I knew I could never harm my child. I used my father's mistakes as a way to learn and find the strength to be better. Now I have a son on the way. And I'm determined to not be like Ozai. I will not neglect either of my children. And you will not let your last failure in marriage stop you now. Sometimes you just need to take a chance and trust yourself."
Sokka just starred at his friend awe struck. "That was definitely better than the silver sandwich. Nice speech, Iroh Jr. But I think I get your meaning. You're right. Fuck my fears, fuck doubts, fuck the past. I won't make the same mistake again. I'm gonna do it, Zuko," claimed the politician with fierce determination.
The Fire Lord smiled. "That's my boy. You can do this. I'm gonna head back to the temple. You coming?"
"I'll be there in a few, I just need to do something here first. Thank you, Zuko. I really needed you here."
Zuko nodded and began walking back, in long, meaningful strides.
"Zuko?" Sokka called out.
The monarch turned back for a moment.
"How do you do it? Take the leap with so much confidence, how do you know it'll work out?" he asked.
The firebender was quiet for a moment before answering. "I don't. I'm scared every time I take a risk. But having the determination, the drive, to move forward is the key. I've done it for so long it just seems natural now. It's what I did when I first decided to join your group. It's how I took the throne and lead my nation, despite the fear of failing in my own purpose and ending up like my ancestors. It's what pushes me to try to be a good father, despite how petrified I am of bring cruel like my father was. But that determination to keep pushing has given me so many rewards. Good friends, a stable nation, and two wonderful children. I have faith it'll do the same for you."
Zuko turned around and continued his journey back to the temple, leaving Sokka alone in the courtyard, letting his words sink in.
The councilman turned to the sky. "I think I'm ready. Please give me the strength to this, Yue."
Sokka lingered a few moments more before trudging back to the temple for some much needed sleep and contemplation.
The next few days went by relatively slowly. The gang hung out on Sunday for some more bonding. Once they returned to their own homes, Sokka immediately set out to his council office to finish the betrothal necklace he'd started on a month ago.
He worked on it every day for three days straight. He had Aang help him find the proper patterns and bend some stone he could add to the carvings, so Toph could better see them.
Toph began to get suspicious whenever Sokka would seem distant or nervous around her, or acted strange at home, but then would quickly dismiss it. She needed to focus on the triad meet up that would take place later that same week. She was far too busy prepping Kauz and her officers. This transaction needed to go according to plan.
Sokka one afternoon emerged from his office, with the necklace finally completed. After the council meeting on the tariffs of Fire Nation imports, he and Zuko headed over to Zuko's suite at the embassy to give his friend the first glimpse. It would be safe from prying ears, as Mai and Ursa were out with Katara and Kya shopping for baby items for Lu Ten.
"Here it is," said the tribesman with great pride. "It took me hours on end to finish but the result was worth it."
Zuko looked at the necklace in awe. It truly was a remarkable piece. The end clasps were made of pure silver metal, etched with straight lines and polished to a high shine. The rest of the necklace was made of stone rather than the traditional wood, for Toph's sake. It had been expertly carved on the edges to have a slight curve around the middle pendant and painted a light blue, to contrast with Toph's alabaster skin. The final touch was the carving in the middle of the pendant, the symbols of the Earth Kingdom and Water Tribes combined into one. Half of it was the Water Tribe's signature swirling waves, the other half was the solid earth symbol. It was perfect down to the last detail.
"Sokka this is amazing, and it's mad purely of stone and metal. She'll be able to really see it. The thought of that alone will have to make her say yes," praised his friend.
Sokka took the necklace from the fire master's hands and nodded. "I really hope so. I hope this plunge doesn't end up with me being damaged beyond repair."
Zuko put a reassuring hand on Sokka's shoulder, much like the night of the reunion. "You know what you want. You love her. She feels the same. Lin will be thrilled. Don't doubt yourself when you've come this far. You can do this, brother. Believe in yourself. And trust her love for you."
The warrior nodded. "I guess youre right. I'm gonna try doing it today."
Sokka and Toph had lunch together at Huang's. As they waited for their noodles, Sokka cleared his throat. "Toph. You know I love you, right? That you mean everything to me, Lin too. And all I ever want is to make you both happy."
Toph's eyebrows furrowed at his odd statements. "Of course I know all this, Sokka. We discussed this the other day. What's going on with you lately? You've been distant and working harder these last few days, you've been jumpy and nervous around me, and spending more time at the council. We've hardly spent any time together since Saturday. If I weren't so busy getting ready for the triad meet up, I'd be more vigil. What's wrong? Tell me the truth." She planted her feet firmly on the stone floor, ready for his response and any change in his heartbeat.
Sokka took a deep breath and began. "Nothing is wrong. But I've come to make a choice, Toph. I want you to know I'm committed to our relationship, and to my being Lin's dad 100%. I'm there completely. Which is why I need to ask-"
Just then, Lieutenant Ton Li ran into the restaurant, cutting off Sokka's words. The councilman glared at the intruder, now losing his newfound courage.
He stood and saluted the couple. "Chief Beifong, Councilman Sokka, I apologize for the intrusion. But Chief, there's an emergency at the precinct and we need you there. Kauz and the earthbenders started a riot among the other holding cell suspects and are attempting to escape. They already took out Lee and another guard, we need backup!"
Toph immediately shot up from her seat, Sokka's recent words forgotten. "WHAT! Motherfucker! Nobody busts out of my station! Let's go! Call for the rest of the squad on patrol, all units back to headquarters now! Sorry Sokka, I gotta go I'll call you when this is resolved!"
She ran out of the restaurant, her second in command running close behind.
Sokka starred after them for a moment before slumping in his seat. "Fucking great. Every fucking time I find the balls to talk to her about it, I get interrupted and lose my fucking nerve."
He sighed, ordering the meal as take out instead and headed to City Hall to catch up on the work he'd missed while he had been slaving away at finishing the betrothal necklace.
After a cold lunch and a few hours of work, Sokka decided to call it a day. It was still early, not even four o'clock, but he had no motivation to do anything.
Next time. No tonight, tonight I will ask her, he said to himself. No more excuses.
Just then, there was a knock at his office door. Sokka voiced his permission for entrance, puzzled by who it could be.
Aang walked in, a look of worry and anxiety written all over his normally cheerful and collected features. This worried Sokka.
The swordsman immediately stood up. "Aang, what's going on? You look terrible. Did something happen? To my sister? The kids? Toph? Did the riot get out of hand-"
The avatar help up his hand, to detain his brother-in-law's mindless rant. "No, Katara and the kids are fine. I was just at the police station a few hours ago, Toph's all right. She's pissed and exhausted like all her officers, but they got the situation under control before it got too violent. The triad is locked up in a cell in the maximum security portion of the precinct. Toph is in a meeting with her superiors discussing security measures to prevent further outbreaks like this as we speak."
The warrior let out a breath of relief. "Okay good. What's the problem then? If it's about why I haven't asked her, I was about to when her lieutenant stormed in and said about the riot."
Aang shook his head. "That's now why I'm here either. Something's come up, something very personal for you, and I don't know how it may impact you. This is why I wanted to be the one to tell you," he explained gently.
"Did something happen to my dad? Or the tribe?"
The Air Nomad shook his head. "Nothing like that. But something, or someone, from your past has, shown up again. And I know how hurtful those memories are for you. But you're gonna need to face them."
Sokka raised an eyebrow in confusion. What could Aang be talking about?
"Aang, no more dancing around the matter. Just give me a straight answer. What the hell are you talking about?"demanded the irritated councilman.
The airbender hesitated for a moment before sighing and stepping closer to his friend.
"Okay. I know it's been years since you've last heard from her. And believe me, this is as much a mystery to me as it will be for you. But Sokka, Suki is back in the city. And she's looking for you."