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It is when you step off the ferry and into the sunlight that Zuko is struck with how beautiful you are.
The sudden realization and look of you hits him so unexpectedly that he has to clear his throat rather harshly. Sokka cuts him a look while the others rush to you, eager to greet you after so many years apart.
Zuko takes a deep breath to steady himself before following slowly at the rear. Truly, it has been quite some time since he has seen you or any of his dear friends. The brief period after the war spent side by side didn’t last long as everyone had their tasks to the world’s rejuvenation and recovery period. Of course, that isn’t to say no one kept in touch. Zuko still has the many letters everyone has sent over the years and he kept up with their lives amidst his own Fire Lord duties.
Even you. He read over your neat handwriting with care and filled you in over everything going on in his life, the important to the mundane. Clearly, words on paper don’t compare to seeing you in the flesh.
How long has it really been? Time has been good to you; you have grown into a true adult as everyone else here today. Zuko is still at odds at seeing Aang above eye level. Still, he knew you had changed but he never let go of your youthful face that last time he had seen it. Or of your many expressions shown throughout his journey dealing with the Avatar. How would they look on your face now?
Zuko is pulled from his thoughts at the silence surrounding him. He glances around to see everyone looking at him expectantly, including you. It’s hard to miss the hope in your eyes making his heart stutter.
“Isn’t it good to see her again?” Katara says with your name with fondness, yet there’s also something else underlying her words. A certain perception that Zuko has seen too many times. Oh, right. She asked a question.
Zuko faces you to answer and he finds his mouth has dried up. “Yes. You look…healthy.”
Katara and Sokka sport twin expressions of disgust that showcase them as true siblings, Aang smiles helplessly, and Toph groans very loudly at Zuko’s response. He can’t digest the awfulness of it just yet for he keeps his eyes on you and only you.
You grin from ear to ear. “Thank you,” you say with grace. “So do you.” Then you laugh and it sounds exactly the same as so long ago. Laughter he has heard countless times and replays in his deepest thoughts. Now you’re here once again, within reach yet still seemingly far away.
Yeah. I’m screwed.
&&&
“‘You look healthy’?” Sokka gasps out in between his guffaws. “Zuko, buddy, that was pitiful.”
”Enough,” Zuko groans. “I don’t need the replay.”
Sokka throws his full weight against Zuko’s shoulder and he shrugs him off immediately. Not only from the annoyance of his teasing but because they’re both slicked with sweat. Everyone was taking a small rest after an impromptu sparring session proposed by Toph.
“It’s been forever,” she had said. “I need to know if anyone has been slacking.”
Everyone had been in full agreement, not just to see how everyone measured up after so long but simply for the camaraderie. Like the old days. It had been exhilarating and amazing to come together again like that, to find a flow now that everyone was older and more skilled. If only Zuko could bask in it in peace.
“Honestly, though.” Sokka continues undeterred. “I’m proud of you, man. You’ve finally grown up.”
Zuko raises his eyebrow. “I’m older than you.”
Sokka shakes his head mockingly and Zuko debates tossing him around the grounds again. “Tsk, tsk. Obviously not what I meant. You’ve grown up in the ways of love.”
Zuko has nothing to say to that right away and that proves to be a mistake: to let Sokka continue talking.
”It’s about time you caught up to the rest of us. All of us here have found our one true love in life.”
Toph chimes in where she lounges against the stairs. “Not me.”
“I don’t count you.”
“Why?” Toph fires back. “Because I can’t see them?” Her words aren’t spoken in defenselessness rather challenging. Sokka doesn’t rise to the bait.
“No, because you would sooner beat them to a pulp!” Sokka’s words rise up into a shriek when Toph bends the earth at her heel and causes a pillar to upend Sokka from where he sits. “See?!”
“Cut it out, Sokka.” Katara interjects and she blatantly ignores her brother’s sputtering as he tries to drag Toph down with him. She turns to Zuko and he finds himself giving his attention when her patient eyes regard him. “This could be your chance, Zuko. Times are different now. We all have settled into our lives.”
“Exactly,” Zuko agrees. “It’s different now, we’re adults. I can’t ask her to give up her livelihood for me.”
“I don’t think she would be giving anything up.” Aang finally inserts himself into the conversation. “You two could easily find a balance if you truly wanted to. Look at Katara and I. We aren’t together all the time but we find a way back to each other at the end of every day.” Aang becomes aware of everyone staring at him. “What?”
Sokka makes a choking sound. “You shouldn’t take advice from those two. They’ve only had each other.”
“And they’re sickeningly sweet!” Toph cackles.
Sokka sidles back up into Zuko’s space. “I have all the advice you need right here. I have way more experience.”
“Your first girlfriend turned into the moon,” Zuko throws out pettily.
Sokka gasps and clutches his chest. “So cruel and for what? I bare my heart to you one time and you throw it back into my face. I’m trying to help you here.”
“Yeah? Where is Suki right now?”
Sokka crosses his arms. “She’s off being a badass with her Warriors and who am I to hold her back? That’s right, I don’t. She knows I’m here waiting for her and vice versa. That’s the kind of love we have. What do you have?”
“Stop,” Katara cuts in harshly and everyone steps back from one another. “Sokka, take this seriously. Zuko needs our help.”
“I am!”
Zuko heaves a heavy breath. Part of him really, really wants to tell everyone to back off and let him handle this. Yet, his words from earlier flash from his memories. And the regret and longing festered for many years. Maybe he can endure the chaos to hear some suggestions. Surely someone in this group should have something substantial. Right?
It turns out, they do. Once everyone calms down, everyone pitches in and a plan begins to formulate in Zuko’s mind. Something concrete, something that actually sounds good.
“Now, are you actually going to have the guts this time?” Toph points out. No one refutes her as they’re all thinking the same thing.
Zuko opens his mouth to answer but his attention is grabbed by you entering the training grounds. Your eyes meet and Zuko is deathly still as you take in his appearance. He’s shirtless from the grueling training and sun and his long hair frames his face. His chest puffs out unknowingly under your gaze.
He keeps watching as Katara gets up to greet you and a corner of his lips quirk up when he sees you cutting him looks every few seconds. That was good, right?
The mood is ruined when Sokka leans up into his ear. “Keep it in your pants, buddy.”
Zuko doesn’t hold back and throws his arm out into a punch that he knows Sokka can deflect. It sets off a chain reaction of the two men duking it out and Toph whooping as she throws herself into the fray.
Even if everyone, one in particular, still knows how to grate his nerves, Zuko is grateful for everyone’s help and support. He will take everything said today into careful consideration.
But, there is one more person he wants to seek advice from. One who will surely take him seriously.
&&&
“Ah, dear nephew. It has been far too long. So, who’s the lucky lady?”
Zuko falters and nearly misses his seat at the tea table. “I haven’t even said anything, Uncle.”
Iroh looks upon his family warmly. “You don’t have to. It’s all over your face and I am well aware who has recently come back to us.”
Zuko sighs lightly through his nose and promptly pours his uncle some tea. “Since you already know, you must know why I’m here.”
His uncle calmly takes a sip of the tea and his resolute nod answers Zuko’s question and also shows his approval in another well done pot of tea. “Oh yes. If there’s anyone here that has been subjected to the teenage woes of love, it’s me.”
“Uncle.”
Iroh chuckles and reaches his hand across the table to pat his nephew lightly. “I’m only teasing. I know how sincere your heart was back then, even if you were too young or prideful to see.”
“Plus, you know, the war.” Zuko takes a pointed sip of tea.
“I’ve heard stories of the most passionate of loves enduring and unfolding on the battlefield.” Iroh needles but grows serious. “However, thanks to you, your friends, and the Avatar, we have entered a great era of peace. I think you have kept her waiting long enough, Zuko.”
Zuko is silent for a few moments. “I don’t know what to say, Uncle.”
“Well, what have you said? Surely you weren’t mute upon seeing her again. You always have something to say, nephew.”
Zuko hesitates and considers leaving the table. Finally, he mumbles, “I told her she looked healthy.”
The wind whistles through the yard and quietness settles around the tea table. Iroh looks at Zuko.
“Was that it?”
“Yes.”
Zuko startles as his uncle suddenly throws his head back in laughter. His body shakes so violently that all the dishes on the table shake and threaten to fall off. Zuko feels his cheeks burn and he settles on a point over Iroh’s shoulder to focus on.
“I know,” he grits out. “I know how bad it was.”
Iroh wipes tears from his face. “Oh, dear nephew. Some things never change, do they?”
Zuko can’t help but smile softly at his uncle’s merriment. Even if it is at his own expense. It is true, Zuko can clearly see his past self bumbling around you and putting his foot in his mouth. Many times. You always took it in stride and never faulted him for it. If only he hadn’t taken it for granted before all was said and done. Nothing was able to come out of it back then, but there may be a chance now.
“What should I do, Uncle?” Zuko asks quietly and Iroh sobers up at his tone.
“Love is a fickle thing, Zuko. It can come in many forms and it can do countless horrible or lovely things to people. You know that as well as I do.” Iroh looks out upon the land and his eyes show his age. “You don’t have to do anything special. If this is as true and pure as it was all those years ago, you need only follow your heart. It won’t lead you astray.”
Zuko smiles genuinely at his uncle and he returns it in kind. The pair lift their teacups in tandem and enjoy the quiet time of tea together. As they once did.
Zuko no longer feels lost. He knows exactly what to do and everything will go according to plan.
&&&
If Zuko could go back in time and shut his mouth so as to not jinx anything, he would in a heartbeat.
The day had started off wonderfully. He had delegated his duties for the day to his trusty advisors and tracked you down quickly. You had seemed elated at the prospect of a day spent together and the two of you had set out to the first stop: the market.
You always loved bits and bobs and Zuko loved seeing you find items that brought you joy. You were always able to spin interesting tales about each one and he hopes that part of you is the same.
However, there was one thing Zuko didn’t account for. A major thing.
He was still the Fire Lord. In a crowded area amongst his loyal followers and subjects.
“Fire Lord Zuko! It is truly an honor to have you here!”
“Fire Lord! Please cast your gaze on my wares! I promise they won’t disappoint!”
“Fire Lord Zuko! Who is your partner? My items are sure to help you win her heart!”
Zuko silently counts to ten in his head and keeps a pragmatic expression on his face. He gently guides you through the crowd to a secluded corner. The nearby shopkeep nods gravely at him and begins herding people away. Finally, someone with some sense.
Your hand grasps the crook of his elbow lightly. Zuko fights not to flex his arm. Your eyes are full of mirth as you whisper like a conspirator, “You think we lost them?”
Zuko huffs. “Yes, we should be safe for now.”
You give his arm a few squeezes at his seriousness. “They truly admire you, there’s nothing wrong with that. You’ve done well to build back up the rapport of Fire Lord. It suits you.”
Zuko can’t help it when his own hand raises to grab yours. “I appreciate that, really.”
He curses himself at how bland he sounds while you don’t pay it much mind. You comment lightly and to somewhat change the topic, “It’s lively here.”
Zuko grunts. “I’m sorry you weren’t able to shop in peace.”
“Who says I still can’t?” Zuko can’t find it in himself to question you as he watches you nab a nearby cloak and drape it over his shoulders. “Remember? Think you can go in hiding again, Prince Zuko?”
You wiggle your eyebrows and a laugh escapes him. He obliges by pulling up the hood. Although, there’s really no fooling anyone since they’ve already seen him and his scar is a telltale sign. Yet he finds he can’t deny you.
“It’s been awhile. I may be rusty.”
“Take it in stride, my lord.” You fully hook your arm with his and the two of you brave the marketplace once more.
&&&
While you had been able to turn a rough situation into a bearable one at the market, Zuko puts his faith into the next phase of his plan.
The two of you gaze up at the sign that broadcasts the name of the local theater. You elbow his side.
“This isn’t like the Ember Island Players, is it?”
Zuko shakes his head firmly. “Absolutely not. This should be a simple showing. One I hope you like.”
“I’m putting my trust in you here,” you joke and allow Zuko to lead you inside to your seats at the balcony.
Zuko sits stiffly while you indulge in some snacks until the lights begin to dim. Zuko relaxes in the dark and watches you as your eyes light up at the curtains drawing. Admittedly, Zuko has only a general idea that this play is a drama and he pays the price when the actor’s first words are:
“Oh, Fire Lord Zuko! How I pledge my life to thee!”
Zuko shoots straight up and nearly launches himself over the edge of the balcony as he watches the idiocy being performed on stage. The group of actors are dressed into a poor imitation of his likeness and they each don a flowing wig. You and Zuko are still as each continues to yell soulfully.
“Nay, if only I could be Lord Zuko! But I may never match his fierceness!”
“Tis’ right! And who’s to say you should be Lord Zuko! Look upon my hair as it is nearly as lustrous as his!”
Zuko himself slumps back into his seat and covers his face with his hands. He hears you faintly snort next to him and feels his soul start to slip away. He’s brought back down to the earth when he feels you touch his leg. He peeks out at you.
Your eyes dance but your face is full of concern. You beckon with a finger and Zuko goes easily. He fights down a blush when you whisper in his ear, “Are you alright? We can leave if you want.”
Zuko regards you with profound tenderness and sits up more promptly in his chair. He settles in as best he can and watches the play intently. He may still be cursing Sokka for suggesting such a thing (he surely knew what he was doing), he knows it’s all in good fun. He can take a few jokes aimed at him if it truly makes you laugh.
“No, I’m fine,” he mumbles and playfully shushes you. “It’s just getting to a good part.”
You watch him steadily for a few seconds more before relaxing in your own chair. You laugh out loud at one of the actor’s jokes and Zuko finds himself finding it funny too.
In the dark, only you two are aware of your hands tightly clasped between your seats.
&&&
The final plan of the day is at hand and Zuko hopes and prays this one goes off without a hitch. He really doesn’t want you to try and salvage this one or him to take anything with grace. Is it too much to ask for it to be normal?
The server of the restaurant leads you into a private dining room. A luxurious and sizable area with a giant window that overlooks the wilderness at the edge of town. The sun is setting and it casts a gentle glow that makes the silverware shine and the food to look extra scrumptious.
Zuko nods at the server’s multiple bows and shuts the door in his face. No one should disturb now and he finds himself releasing a rush of air.
Thank you Katara for this suggestion.
He quickens his pace to join you as you’re already sitting and waiting respectively. He knocks your hand that goes for a plate.
“Allow me.” He deftly dips out a portion and brings it to your attention. “See anything you like?”
Your eyes take in the food and you gasp in recognition. “You didn’t! No way they have that on the menu!”
Zuko shrugs nonchalantly. “They don’t. I had it specially made.”
You shake your head in mock disapproval and take the plate when it’s offered. “My favorite,” you say quietly.
“I know,” Zuko says just as softly. You share a smile and begin to tuck into the food.
“So,” Zuko clears his throat and after he wipes his mouth. “How have things been for you lately? I’ve read your letters but you haven’t really said much in the last few.”
You hum. “Yes, I’m sorry. Things have been so busy lately. But, let me tell you this one thing…”
Zuko lets you talk and periodically taps your plate to remind you to also keep eating. You inhale your bites and you don’t stop talking as Zuko commits every word to memory.
It’s going perfectly. The light is framing you nicely and the food is delicious. Everything is at last coming together in Zuko’s favor. He sets down his silverware and opens his mouth to gently interrupt you. He has to go for it now.
Something flashes in the corner of his eyes. He’s dead set on ignoring it until he sees it again. His heart drops to his stomach when his brain registers the unmistakable color of blue. He discreetly looks and clenches his jaw so hard he’s surprised his teeth don’t crack.
Sokka is hanging for dear life on one of the branches of the tree next to the window. Once he sees he’s caught Zuko’s attention, he grins with all his teeth and gestures wildly at you.
“Go for it!” He mouths silently.
Zuko doesn’t have a chance to process that absurdity when his eyes nearly bug out when he sees the Avatar floating near the sill as well. Aang points solemnly at Sokka as if that excuses anything. Zuko nearly sees red.
You’re still deep in your story and Zuko makes a hasty decision. He stealthily knocks your fork to the floor. You freeze and grumble to yourself as you bend to pick it up. As soon as your head is down, Zuko grabs one of the buns and lobs it at Sokka’s head.
The bun is soft enough to not make a loud impact and Aang is quick on the uptake to fly to cover Sokka’s mouth. Sokka’s flared nostrils are still visible and Zuko cuts a finger across his own throat in warning.
You come back up and Zuko is as poised as ever. As if nothing happened.
You grimace. “Sorry about that. Do you think they could get me a spare?”
“I’m sure. It was an accident - ow!”
You jump when a nut flies out of nowhere and strikes Zuko on the forehead. You look in the direction it came from and see only a glimpse of Aang and Sokka’s guilty expressions before they drop from view. You faintly hear scolding shortly after. It’s unmistakably Katara.
“Didn’t I tell you to leave them alone? You’re an adult, act like it!”
“What’s wrong with checking up on the progress?”
You hear a strike and a squeal before all goes quiet again. You look back to Zuko and his face is deathly calm. You can’t question him when he grabs your hand and pulls you up from the table.
“Come with me, please.”
He leaves you no room for objection as he takes you from the dining area but you go willingly. You don’t remark on anything as Zuko marches from the restaurant to the accompanying garden. He doesn’t stop until he reaches the small lake where he sags heavily onto the ground. You settle next to him and watch the turtle ducks as they frolic in the moonlight.
You let him stew and give him a chance to calm down. All is still and quiet and it’s well and truly just the two of you now.
“You know,” you say easily. “If there’s anything you want to tell me, now’s the time.”
Zuko’s head snaps up and he sputters ungracefully. You can’t keep it together and your chest heaves with laughter that causes tears to prick at your eyes.
“You knew the whole time?”
“Zuko,” you say sternly but gingerly. “You’re not the only one who had feelings back then. Nor were you the only one who didn’t act on them in time.”
A beat passes. “I should’ve - ”
You shake your head. “No, maybe I should’ve. But we didn’t. We were young, Zuko. And handling something that no kid our age should have to at the time. We’re here now, though.”
You leave that pointed statement to hang and Zuko deliberates. Finally, he settles on:
“The moon is beautiful tonight.”
You can’t help tilting your head back. It’s full and casts its glow upon everything below. You can’t help but agree with him even as your heart sinks a little.
“Yeah, it is.”
You look back at him to see him already looking at you. He’s very close and your breathing hitches.
“You’re beautiful,” he mumbles and his head slots next to yours. An invitation. You respond in kind.
The kiss is chaste and it feels as though many years and untold feelings are spoken through it. It rushes to you and you almost chase after it as Zuko withdraws a little.
“Too late?” He asks.
You smile. “No, we have plenty of time.”
You draw him back in and it’s a proper kiss this time. One that has you clutching his robes and him to cradle the back of your neck. The breeze rustles past the two of you and shelters you away, two souls aligned after so long apart.
&&&
Toph tilts her head a little. “I sense two hearts racing.”
Sokka perks up. “That has to be good, right? About time!”
“We should really go,” Aang says and cowers under Katara’s glare at his involvement. “They can fill us in later.”
“Indeed,” Iroh chimes in. “Although, I believe I have won the bet, Miss Beifong.”
Toph huffs and slaps some coins into the old man’s hands. Katara watches them wearily.
“Do I even want to know?”
“I bet he would make it before I passed on into the Spirit World! Ha, I knew to have good faith in my nephew! He gets his good charm from me.”
Iroh’s chuckles fade away into the night as the gang follow him home after another successful mission: hooking the two of you up after so many years in the making.