Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/12374991.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Underage
  Category:
      Multi
  Fandom:
      Avatar:_The_Last_Airbender
  Relationship:
      Sokka/Zuko_(Avatar), Aang/Katara_(Avatar), Mai/Zuko_(Avatar)
  Character:
      Sokka_(Avatar), Aang_(Avatar), Katara_(Avatar), Zuko_(Avatar), Iroh_
      (Avatar), Jet_(Avatar), Toph_Beifong, Ursa_(Avatar), Hakoda_(Avatar)
  Additional Tags:
      Gay, Love, Angst, Fluff, Eventual_Smut, Eventual_Happy_Ending, Secret
      Relationship, Secret_Identity, Sexual_Content, Sokka_is_bad, Top_Zuko,
      Bottom_Sokka, Oral_Sex, Anal_Sex, mixed_feeling
  Stats:
      Published: 2017-10-15 Updated: 2018-02-21 Chapters: 6/? Words: 20470
****** The Warrior and the Prince ******
by Halcyon1602
Summary
     Sokka walks in on Zuko and Iroh's secret new life in Ba Sing Se city
     and is left with a conundrum. Rat them out to the authorities or the
     Avatar or keep an eye on them?
     What happens when your enemy sort of becomes your crush?
      
     So on a quick glance through the tags this is a story that's not
     exactly an uncommon one.
     But what the hell! I have just discovered the joy that is Avatar and
     I want to take my spin on a favourite pairing. Warning: It won't be
     entirely canon compliant. I like to write with the freedom to do it
     the way I like. I'll try to keep the dates and timings as accurate as
     I can.
***** ...Zuko? *****
94 AG - Royal Palace of the Fire Nation
“You know Zuko, one day you’ll have to get used to dealing with girls.”
“Are we really having this talk mama. Realllllly?” Zuko groaned inwardly. I
mean as if she wasn’t embarrassing enough most of the time but this was
waaaaaay too much right now.
“It’ll have to happen some day so it might as well happen today. You and Mai
looked like you were arguing again.” Ursa usually had at least one eye pointed
in Zuko’s direction, mostly to ensure Azula didn’t get out of hand. She may
have been younger than Zuko but her prowess as a firebender had surpassed her
elder with ease. Ursa would never voice her concerns but she saw something in
Azula that worried her; she had a detached determination to win at any cost.
“Just cause I don’t want to play their stupid game doesn’t mean we were
arguing,” Zuko looked away pouting. “It’s not the kinda game I enjoy. Azula’s
too rough, Ty Lee just goofs around and Mai keeps avoiding looking at me.”
“Do you ever wonder whether she avoids you because she is embarrassed?” Ursa
sat in her favourite chair overlooking the Palace gardens. She had been
struggling with the pattern on this particular embroidery for quite some time
and was getting nowhere; still it passed the time. Really her focus was on her
troubled son.
Zuko looked at her like she was insane. He sat cross legged in front of her
with a trio of golden candles. All children in the Fire Nation used Candles for
meditating as the earliest introduction to Fire Bending; the vast majority
never progressed beyond that. He found it the easiest way to calm. Breathing
in, breathing out, feeling the fires in front of him time themselves with his
body.
“Ugh, yuck. I don’t wanna talk about it.”
Ursa placed her work down on the table beside them, leaning forward to place
her hand against his shoulder.
“Come on Zuko.” Her tone changed ever so slightly. He seemed to pause as he
mulled over whatever it was that churned in his head.
“Why.” It was only half a question, half a grumble.
“Why what, Zuko?”
“Why do I have to learn about girls and stuff. What if I don’t want to,” Ursa
thought she might explode with love at how adorable he was when he got all
pouty like that.
“You’ll be marrying one, one day. Treating a lady right is one of the highest
forms of honour a man can have,” Zuko’s innate sense of right and wrong made
him pick up slightly when she mentioned honour. It was, however, fleeting.
“What if I don’t want to marry a girl?” Ursa paused for a moment, not entirely
sure where Zuko was leading the conversation. He was about the right age to
start uncovering the mystical depths of puberty and everything it entailed; who
knows what it was that he clung to.
“I suppose there is no requirement to marry but it will be expected of you.
You’re the next in line to be Fire Lord and how can our dynasty continue if you
don’t marry?” She tried to be fairly gentle about it. Zuko often became
uncomfortable when anyone talked about the expectations of royal life with him.
To be frank she wasn’t really comfortable about it but that’s life.
“I didn’t say I didn’t want to marry,” She could tell he was getting
embarrassed as the control over the candles had started to slip. The tallest in
the middle burned furiously while the others flickered and wavered.
Ursa thought for a moment. Zuko was remarkably good at subtle word play when he
wanted so she worked around the words he used for what he might be getting at.
It took a moment or two but an idea dawned.
“Doesn’t have to be a girl, you know. Fire Lord Akkai married Prince Consort
Ka’ri a few hundred years ago; he led an era of prosperity. Our laws are a
little hazy about the line of succession but it worked out in the end.” If
memory served, as long as the child was biologically related to the Fire Lord
then they were by law entitled to succeed.
Zuko perked a little bit. This was clearly new information to him; she would
have to have words with Shifu Tsuto as clearly his history lessons were going
poorly. Zuko tried to hide his obvious relief but sadly the furious red tone in
his cheek gave him away.
“You have years before you have to come to any conclusions, Zuko. Don’t trouble
yourself over trivial matters like this right now, my love.”
The candles in front of him calmed and stilled in time with his breathing
 
===============================================================================
 
97 AG - Southern Water Tribe
“Sokka!” Hakoda was not ready to deal with what he saw.
Sokka was equally not ready for this. Neither was the now incredibly
embarrassed form of Atika who had tried to hide under the covers. The Chief was
not supposed to be home for at least another few hours hence Sokka now found
himself entangled within his bed covers in his tent with another young warrior
from the tribe.
“DAD!” Sokka was unable to process words beyond a single syllable.
“Son, what...Atika, just...you’ve got 5 minutes to get clothes and...and...you
know what to do,” Hakoda mushed his face into his left palm before walking out
to make himself very very scarce.
“Um...that could have gone better,” Atika whispered under the covers. He was
only very slightly taller than Sokka and much broader. He had the stance and
body of a brutish warrior though that’s what made him so damn hot.
“No shit,” Sokka sulked. They barely shared a word before Akita left. Hakoda
sat around the fire in his chieftain’s hut, gently poking at it with a large
stick. Sokka was glad the light was dim as he could feel his cheeks flushed
intensely.
“I was about to say it’s time for the Birds and the Bees talk. I’ll amend that
to the Bees and the Bees, then.”
“If this were any other time, I’d find that funny.” Sokka looked glumly at the
fire. Fire may be the opposite element to his people’s but it always fascinated
him. Water was an all consuming thing; it sought only to fill that which was
empty. Water claimed everything it could, it was greedy for anything it did not
possess. 
Fire was alive. It burned in the way it desired as long as it’s sustenance was
around; it chose its path of destruction rather than relying simply on the
basic laws of gravity. There was something about it’s carnal destructive power
that was exhilarating.
“I imagine you already know what there is to know so I’m not going to bore you
with the basics. I am only going to give you a warning. You know we have rules
about the age of consent and all that and you know you’re below it.”
“Ugh dad, I’m completely aware.”
“So be careful about flouting the damn rules, son. I can’t protect you or
anyone else if you get caught.” Hakoda used that voice that denoted absolute
authority. Sokka knew better than to question it.
“Ugh, fine. Look can we not talk about it? I’m still reeling from you walking
in on me.”
“Forgive me for being harsh but the universe does just love to piss on you,
son,” Both chuckled for the first time. “But...okay, I’m gonna say, Atika?
Really?”
“Dad…”
“I mean, sure he’s got enough muscle to manhandle a Walrus but bit short in the
brains department dont’cha think.”
“Woah woah woah, Dad. Rude. Kinda true but also rude.” Sokka conceded. He had
to be honest, Atika was nice and all but conversation was REALLY dull. I mean,
yes that didn’t really matter too much when he had you pressed up against a
wall but it would be nice to get something else.
“Look...I came home early for a reason. And no, it wasn’t to interrupt my
erstwhile son getting his end away.” Another groaned DAD.
“I haven’t told Katara yet. I...I thought it’d be easier to tell you first. I
and most of the tribesmen will be leaving in a few days to fight in the war.” A
brief silence came, punctuated only by the crackle of the fire.
“WHAT?!” This was not happening. No way. The Fire Nation had for the last few
months mostly left the Southern Tribes alone. In fact the various fronts the
Fire Nation fought on had become rather quiet of late, so the men said in quiet
whispers. “You can’t be serious. Why?”
“We’re not in this war on our own Sokka. We’re going to help the Earth Kingdom
against the Fire Nation on their borders; the Earthers are brilliant foot
soldiers but they’re useless on the seas. The Navy has been using the sea to
flank the Earthers for years and now...well. They’ll be in for a surprise.” He
had a menacing grin on.
“But they haven’t attacked us or the Northern Tribes for ages. Why should we
help the Earth Kingdom?”
“Have you ever met an Air Nomad, Sokka?” Sokka shook his head. No one had as
far as he was aware.
“There’s a very good reason for that. The Air Nomads are all gone and it’s
because we didn’t think it was our problem. Not the Water Tribes nor the Earth
Kingdom; Air Nomads were a perfect first target for the Fire Nation. They had
no fixed defenses, no real concept of a standing army. I’ll give those
flamebrains credit, their discipline is legendary. The Nomads were helpless and
we ignored it.”
“Perhaps if had helped we could have turned the Nomads into something we could
use. The only way the Fire Nation is ever gonna be beaten is if the rest of us
band together.”
“Then I’m coming with you.” Sokka declared triumphantly. Hakoda sighed. He knew
his son would want to, it was all he’d talked about for years. Ever since their
mother passed away in fact.
“Sokka, listen to me. I need you to stay here with the tribe.”
“Seriously? But I wanna help. I wanna fight the fire nation.” Sokka looked
crestfallen.
“I know that but...look, have you ever fought a firebender? They’re tough sons
of bitches and thats even when faced against an equally matched waterbender.
Son, you can’t bend. We can teach you ways to fight firebenders without
waterbending but it takes years of practice. It’s just too soon.”
“But…”
“Listen to me son. I know what the Fire Nation did and what they mean to you. I
want you to know that they aren’t all like that. Most of the people of the Fire
Nation are just regular guys and girls going about their day. You shouldn’t
hate them all just cause their leaders are hellbent on domination.” Hakoda
stood up.
“Think about it son. Think about it.”
===============================================================================
 
100AG - Ba Sing Se city, Earth Kingdom
 
Everything had largely gone tits up.
Though they’d all made it to the great Ba Sing Se city, there were problems.
Chief among the problems was the mysterious disappearance of Appa. Sokka had
rarely seen Aang anywhere even vaguely close to angry or upset for more than 5
minutes but he’d been perpetually gloomy, though everyone understood why.
Problem number two was Joo Dee. No matter how hard they attempted to impress
upon her the urgency of their need to talk to the King, she seemed utterly
unfazed by it. Toph was absolutely right they were being handled.
With jack all to do (and feeling fairly useless surrounded by benders who were
soooo great at everything they did) Sokka decided to explore. Ba Sing Se was an
enormous city with delights abound for those that sought them out.
The place they’d been given in the Upper Ring was surrounded mostly by well to
do residences. Not my style! Sokka found the little market on the lower ring
that was far more his flavour. Street stools selling food, trinkets and jewels,
raw materials, furniture etc were arranged in a rough square, each one of the
stools sat upon a numbered plaque upon the floor. Though this was a fairly
humdrum affair, Sokka’s innate preclusion toward planning and organising
appreciated how tidy and ordered it was.
Being the official guests of the Earth Kingdom did mean they were looked after
in terms of food and funds. Finally Sokka had a chance to enjoy his favourite
pastime: Shopping! Of course the others had given a list of supplies that
needed buying but that left plenty of money for some much nicer things.
Eesh. Earthers have a really odd sense of fashion. All the clothes on the
stools were a mix of golds and greens, heavy brocade tunics and things. Given
the season it seemed really odd that they all favoured really heavy clothes but
who was he to judge?
“Hey, mister. You look like you’re searching for something…” A friendly young
girl poked her head around the edge of the stool. She was a little older than
Sokka and dressed in a simple knee length dress patterned with geometric gold
and green patterns.
“Uh, I was mostly browsing to be honest,” Sokka smiled warmly. “Not sure if
I’ve seen anything though.”
“Not surprised dressed like that. You’re from the Water Tribes, right?” She
beamed. “I might have a few things that will suit you a little better.” She
pulled him behind the stool to find boxes and boxes of spare clothes. Several
of them bore strange insignia; there were clothes here from Omashu, Kyoshi,
even a box or two from the Fire Nation. Right at the back was a lonely box with
no insignia.
“Wow you actually have some decent stuff. I’m impressed,” Sukko went rifling
through the box picking out a few bits that suited. “I love that shirt and that
bag. Ooo, I haven’t seen these in years!”
“Hah, we rarely get any water tribesmen come this way. I don’t really stock
what I can’t sell you know?” She watched with amusement. “You’re mighty picky
you know.”
“Well I gotta have the right stuff, don’t I?”
“Uh, huh. I think you’re the kinda guy that would suit pretty much anything he
put on,” She said nonchalantly, running her hands through a small sales ledger
she kept. He turned to look at her sidelong.

“Uhm. I guess that’s a thank you?”
“Oh you’re welcome.” She winked. Sokka felt that familiar conflict that bubbled
whenever anyone...well whenever a girl started flirting. Part of him was still
a little embarrassed to talk about his inclination but it would be kinda on her
(and on anyone really) to disappoint sooner rather than later.
“Um...Listen, I think you’re barking up the wrong tree here,” He laughed
softly.
“I know that too, don’t mean I can’t have a little fun.”
“Wait what?”
“Stereotypes aside, you all tensed up when I tried my hand.” The girl shrugged.
“Ah well, beggars can’t be choosers.”
Sokka didn’t like this conversation; everything about it was awkward, contrived
and felt really uncomfortable. She looked at him like a predator and he felt
like he exuded prey vibes from moment one. He decided it was probably best to
leave the goods and just move on.
Fortunately most other vendors were pretty...normal? At least, they didn’t try
to flirt with him. Nor did they try to set him on fire like half the people
he’d met over the last 6 months had so that was a bonus.
Tracking down food and a few small comforts for the guys had proved easy
enough. Aang’s Sky-wafers were a lot harder to find but a little old lady did
still make them. She got really quite excited when Sokka asked for them
all.Weird. Three hours later and he was exhausted. The trek back to the Upper
Ring was gonna take a while and frankly he did not feel even vaguely up to that
task right now.
“Excuse me mam, do you know if there’s anywhere I could rest and get a drink
around here?” He asked a little lady with a stool of wood carvings. The lady
turned to him with a gentle smile and nodded.
“Why yes, young man. Down the street, next left and follow it two further
blocks. There’s a lovely little tea shop that’s just had a new tea master,
supposed to be one of the best around.” He bowed his thanks and proceeded down
the street.
The little shop stood on a single floor, separate by a narrow alleyway on all
sides from the two story blocks either side. It was decorated like just about
every building in the Earth Kingdom, lots of earthy colours and a dark brown
roof. It had a sign on the outside that probably had the building’s name on it
once; the text was so faded it was illegible. Shrugging, he stepped inside.
The inside was as plainly decorated on the inside as it was on the outside.
There were a few old paintings hung upon the wall, a blessing carved into the
wood that lead to the backroom. He quickly took a seat in the corner, glancing
over a menu carved into a wooden tablet left at the table.
The place certainly appeared popular. It was well past the traditional time for
afternoon tea and it was still packed with travellers and locals in equal
number. He glanced around at patrons, seeing the common folk and elite sitting
virtually shoulder to shoulder. Places like this only happened rarely and
became hubs for everyone to enjoy.
“What can I get you?”
Sokka froze, as if Katara had locked him in sheet ice. For starters he had got
lost enough that he hadn’t really bothered to peruse the menu. But more
importantly, the voice that called to him was familiar. It was husky and deep.
It grated against the speaker’s vocal chords like the words were effort to
speak.
It was also entirelyterrifying. Not least because Sokka and his companions had
all suffered time and time again at the hands of that voice. It was a voice
filled with malice, even if the words it spoke were trivial.
“....Zuko?”
===============================================================================
 
Morning routine didn’t agree with formerly Crown Prince Zuko of the Fire
Nation. It didn’t really agree with him before he was banished from the Fire
Nation and spent years roving about the wilderness searching for a may-may-not
be alive legend. It suited him even less when he was getting up early in the
morning to serve people tea.
Not that he had much choice of course. Neither welcome at home or welcome
anywhere else by his true identity, he and his uncle Iroh had no option but to
seek alternative lifestyles. Fortune smiled upon them as Iroh had a penchant
for the art of Tea making; something the Earth Kingdom valued immensely.
And now I get to wake up a the fuck end of the morning and prepare Earth
Kingdom peasants Tea. It’s all so fucking degrading.
Few could master burning internal rage in the same way Zuko had. His mood
states went from softly simmering to full blown volcanic depending on the
situation, time of day and how hormonal he happened to be at that given moment.
Iroh had learned time and time again that the slightest provocation might
ignite his nephew’s ire which would do them no favours.
“Li, could you bring out another serving tray?” Iroh asked calmly as he blended
a specific selection of leaves together. The morning had passed largely without
incident and the lunchtime crowd had departed. This was the quiet wind down of
the day, the sort of time when Zuko was unable to focus on the flurry and began
stewing over his frankly atrocious fortunes. He grunted as he took a tray from
the kitchen space and slammed it on the table in front of Iroh.
For his part Iroh, who went by the name Mushi, had become so used to Zuko’s
tempestuous nature that he didn’t react. The solemn task of a master Tea maker
at work consumed his attention; when finished, he placed the small cups and the
pot on the tray and directed the smoldering Zuko to a table near the front
door.
Upon the first time Zuko had been seen in the tea shop, a few had given him
some curious and pitying looks at the sight of the burn on his face. The scar
had done as all scars do, softened and become dull over time but the
discolouration to his face was noticeable. All who witnessed it assumed the
same thing: A victim of the Fire Nation army. If only they knew.
They were right, in a sense. The Fire Lord is the nominal leader of the Fire
Nation Army and Navy therefore the burn did come from them. Only it was the
result of a particularly cruel lesson in “honour” and “humility” from an
overbearing parent.
Why does this shit happen to me? It was a question he’d asked himself
constantly for the last 3 or 4 years. Why was I banished for wanting to protect
the lives of my countrymen? Why is my only way to redemption this stupid
Avatar? Why does my Dad despise me?
Internal monologuing had become a thing for Zuko lately,As if I need to see
family Megalomania manifest itself too.
He schooled himself to his most neutral state which was somewhere vaguely in
the vicinity of “impassive with a twinge of irritation.” The couple graciously
accepted the tea he poured for them delicately and thanked him; he responded
with a polite bow.
Another two or three people had wandered in and sat glancing through the menus
in his half of the floor. Ugh. I’ve even got fucking possessive. A young lady
he’d seen around a few times since they started, an elderly gentleman who he
recognised as a regular and a guy about his age who’d tucked himself in the
corner. He gave none of them more than a glance. The guy looks familiar somehow
though. He shrugged; galactic coincidences did sometimes happen.
He took orders from the former. Jasmine Tea and a sweet steamed bun for the
girl and Oolong for the elderly gentleman, committed to memory until they
weren’t needed. He may have been banished but the disciplined mind he’d honed
through years of training had it’s uses.
He stood at the table of the guy, bowed to him politely and asked his question.
“What can I get you?”
The figure tensed in front of him. This one’s a weirdo the sixth sense said,
screaming at him to take a look. Zuko peered down and nearly ended up tripping
over his own feet.
Holy fuck that isn’t possible.
“...Zuko?” A pair of wide, sky blue eyes stared at him with equal measures of
surprise and fear.
As if things could get fucking worse.
***** I'll be watching *****
Chapter Notes
     Trialled keeping the chapters a little short. Not sure if it works
     myself but welcome for comments for and against; either way, follow
     up to Chap 1. Enjoy!
“What the fuck are you doing here?” Zuko hissed as quietly as he could.
Mentally he was somewhere between panicking and raging. His and his Uncles
ability to blend in with the throngs was tentative at best; the Water Tribe boy
could ruin any chances of that happening. 
“Uh, right back at you?” Sokka’s look of surprise had turned to one of hardline
hatred. He’s cute when he’s angry. Wait, what? 
“What does it look like, waterboy,” Zuko gestured to the menu humbly emblazoned
with hand drawn images of tea. 
“I’ll tell you what it looks like, it looks like the Fire Nation’s got some
sneaky plan to infiltrate Ba Sing Se. Am I on the money?” Oh please. 
“You got me. The Fire Nation will seize the Earth Kingdom through its tea
houses. Are you a complete moron or is it a part time occupation?”  
“What the hell else is the Crown Prince of the Fire nation doing serving tea in
lower circle restaurant then?” Zuko glanced around them. Though no one had
expressly said anything, their terse conversation had begun to attract
attention from a few of the patrons. What if… 
“Of course, I’m sure the manager will be able to satisfy you of the quality.
Please,” Zuko grabbed hold of Sokka’s hand (which totally didn’t tingle, not
one bit) and pulled him toward the back of the shop. “Follow me, sir.” 
“What the…” Sokka didn’t even have time to protest before he was pulled behind
the doors of the backroom. Zuko rapidly closed them, pinning him against their
surface. In any other situation this would be pretty fucking hot, even if it IS
the Prince of the Fire Nation. 
“Li, what are you doing?” Iroh looked at them with abject confusion. He clearly
didn’t remember Sokka from their previous encounters which may or may not be a
good thing. 
“You can drop the act, Uncle. This one knows.” Zuko looked at him with narrow
eyes. 
“Oh, you are the companion of the Avatar are you not? Welcome, welcome. You
must try the Sea Sage tea, I think it will suit your palette nicely.” 
“Uncle?!” Sokka couldn’t help but chuckle at Zuko’s exasperated teenager voice.
It was only at a time like this where he could actually look at the Prince in
detail he noticed things he hadn’t before. They must be roughly the same sort
of age, give or take a year. The traditional pony tail that Fire Nation
types favoured was gone and his hair was clippered short. Though anyone who
REALLY looked could tell he was Fire Nation from the Amber glow they all seem
to have in their eyes. I mean, come on? How could you not notice? 
“Yeah, sorry old fella. I’m not sure I’m in the mood for poison tea.” 
“I would never make such a thing, young man.” Iroh looked at him firmly. 
“He’s right, he won’t.” Zuko rolled his eyes dramatically to punctuate his
words. “Look, Sotha or whatever your name is…” 
“Sokka. It’s Sokka.” 
“Sokka. I and my uncle are trying to lead an ordinary life here. We are here
because we came of our own accord.” Sokka looked at him before bursting out
laughing.  
“You’re killing me, fireprincess. No really. The look on your face, it’s
beautiful. I’m not buying it.” Sokka folded his arms and looked at each of them
pointedly. “The heir to the throne of the Fire Lord and his trusted advisor are
just, what...giving up on it all and selling tea in a little shop in the den of
their enemy?” 
“I don’t have to justify myself to you, Water Triber. It’s the truth. We’re
just as much refugees of the war as anyone else that’s come
here.” Sokka thought it odd how Zuko looked out the window at that moment.
There was an obvious pain when he spoke of life the way it was, whether it was
fake or real. 
“Oh yeah? Right, well if you aren’t going to be forthright what’s stopping me
from Marching down the nearest guard post and telling them two Fire Nation
bods, a general and a member of the ruling family no less, are sitting under
their noses.” 
Silence fell between them confirming Sokka had won. Zuko would be powerless
if Sokka chose to alert the authorities they were there. Zuko closed his eyes
and sighed. 
Sokka paused. There was a look that he hadn’t seen on Zuko’s face before, one
that looked much like...resignation? Shit son, is he being serious? Nah he
can’t be. Surely not. 
“Sokka, you must do what you feel is right. However, I would implore you to
give Zuko’s words a chance to prove themselves. We are not here on any mission
of our homeland, that much I can assure you,” It was Iroh’s turn to speak
and Sokka heard nothing but sincerity. “I wish I were able to explain ourselves
to you but…” He glanced to Zuko who had turned toward the window again,
gripping the wooden frame enough his knuckles had gone pale. “It is still a raw
wound.” 
“Huh. Well. You haven’t actually done anything wrong, besides exist
yet.” Sokka chuckled to himself. Those words his father said to him a long time
ago floated to the top of his mind. Sat round the fire days before he left to
fight the Fire Nation, he’d implored Sokka to consider the unthinkable: Not all
Fire Nation citizens were evil. 
It’d never really crossed his mind again until this day. He stood here with the
power to end the free lives of two of the Fire Nation’s elite and yet, somehow,
his hand hesitated. Was it that he believed the awkward teen and his sincere
Uncle? Was it that he felt some small degree of kindness? Who knows. 
He had an opportunity to look at them both openly. Iroh wore a simple heavy
gown in traditional Earthy colours, tied around his sizable waist with a simple
belt. His gray hair and beard were expertly trimmed, as one would expect,
though just different enough from the staid fashions Fire Nation
nobles favoured not to arouse suspicion. Zuko wore a plain brown shirt and
trousers, covered by a black apron. The sleeves of the shirt had been rolled up
past the elbow, hastily tucked out of the way so as to avoid accidentally
dipping in drinks or foods. He wore the top button fastened tightly to his
neck; Can’t even let that little bit slip away, can he. The traditional battle
clothes he usually wore hid almost all of his features but this get up left a
lot more open to view. Years of training left Zuko unusually well formed for
someone of his age, both broad and well set. Though his constant frown helped,
Zuko possessed an unusually chiselled jaw. His new haircut, if one could call
it that, suited him far better than the almost entirely bald + pony tail look.
It made him look far less severe; almost cute one might say. 
Wait, this is disgusting. Stop thinking about the prince of the fucking FIRE
NATION like that. 
Zuko on the other hand was essentially having a melt down. A very large part of
him wanted nothing more than to set this insolent little asshole on fire but
several things made him pause. If asked, he would of course answer
that Firebending would give away their identity and so was pretty much off
limits. 
However, it was mostly Sokka that made him stop. There was
an unmistakeable feeling of being drawn to those wide, oceanic eyes. Sokka wore
his heart on his sleeve in such a way that Zuko found both distinctly
uncomfortable and eminently fascinating. His casual demeanor, lean and athletic
figure and clothes that left quite a lot to view certainly did his rustic charm
no harm. How fucking inconvenient, a crush on the enemy. 
The third thing that made him stop was a feeling of helplessness. For the most
part, Zuko had never done anything Zuko did not want to do. Only once in his
life had his destiny been beyond his ability to change: The day he was banished
from the Fire Nation. He felt like a Rabbit staring down the bow of a hunter;
powerless to change his situation. He was long for the ride, whether good or
bad. 
“Do what you want, waterboy.” Zuko finally hissed out, not turning away from
the window. It was the only acknowledgement he felt he could give. 
“Oh I will. Here’s the deal. Unless you two actually start burning houses down,
which I’m sort of expecting in a day or two, you’ve not done anything wrong
yet. I won’t tell the guards you’re here,” Sokka said, leaning back against the
door. “But just so you know, you aren’t off the hook.” 
“You two are dangerous. I’ve seen what you,” He pointed to Zuko who had now
turned to watch him. “Can do and it’s not fricken pretty. I imagine grandpa
here wouldn’t be following you around unless he was also pretty good at burning
shit.” Iroh remained silent, watching closely both Sokka and Zuko. 
“Deal is, I keep an eye on you. Consider yourselves officially under
surveillance by yours truly,” Sokka beamed proudly. Iroh nodded with his eyes
closed, apparently reaching the conclusion this was a logical decision. 
“You are fucking joking,” Zuko’s palm rubbed against his scarred eye. “You?
Watching over us?” 
“Uh, yeah? How else are we gonna keep an eye on you two? In case you forgot,
you’ve spent a year chasing Aang across the world. While we’re in the city, you
pose a pretty big threat to him. This way, I get to make sure you aren’t.”  
Zuko sighed. In reality, he was still silently hoping he might get an
opportunity to seize the elusive Airbender and return home in a blaze of glory.
It was obvious fath….Fire Lord Ozai had sent him on this little quest because
he considered it impossible. Now Zuko actually had a chance at redemption; he
had an opportunity to regain his honour and status at home, returning to the
Fire Nation a hero rather than a failure. However, he had to be much smarter
about it than last time. 
He even had Aang within his grasp but he overextended himself and
let Aang escape. Aang even had the indecency to save his fucking life in the
process. 
“It is a fair arrangement. Come, let me make you some tea.” Iroh filled the
empty silence after Sokka’s gauntlet. That was it settled. 
Zuko couldn’t bring himself to leave the room. Paralysis by internal conflict
was a thing right? Yet again, the universe seemed hell bent on testing his
resolve. After settling on laying low, Fate marches the enemy through their
front fucking door and now assigns him as their little jailors. A prison of
circumstance rather than bars of iron is still a prison; he felt trapped. 
Was this really such a bad thing though? Any opportunity to prove
himself honourable and worthy of even a small degree of trust appealed to him.
If convincing Sokka he wasn’t some Fire Nation sleeper agent won him an ounce
of trust then maybe it was worth it. Even if Zuko later decided to return to
form, being on Sokka’s good side meant only one thing: Access to the Avatar
himself. That had to be worth it. 
If he was completely honest with himself, there was a little (read: big) part
of him that wanted Sokka just to...like him? An old saying goes “Keep your
friends close and your enemies closer.” Sokka was the sort of enemy he wouldn’t
mind getting real close to if hormones had any say in it. 
In the end, Zuko decided to let Fate take it’s course. Iroh said something
about patience yadda yadda. Well time to put it into practice, I guess. 
Eventually, he found conviction enough to leave the room. Iroh had done a
sterling job of managing the floor while he had been absent, chatting calmly
and politely to patrons as well as ensuring orders were fulfilled on time. He
looked genuinely happy, something Zuko hadn’t seen since...well. Since Lu Ten
died. 
Sokka had returned to his spot, smiling warmly has he drunk the tea. Upon
seeing Zuko he did the unthinkable and winked at him. The Fire Nation Prince
felt an uncomfortable warmth in each of cheeks. Nope. Can’t deal with this
right now. Zuko proceeded to storm out to work.  
Holy shit I am going to enjoy this. Sokka couldn’t help himself. He had a new
play thing who really didn’t want him around and could do absolutely nothing
about it. It was purely enjoyable watching him suffer; no ulterior motives at
all. More important than all that, Sokka felt genuinely useful to the team
again. He struggled to protect his sister, Aang and Toph without some form of
bending ability (not that any of them really needed it). This way, he could do
it. Sure they’d never know about it but he would, right?  
Sokka had yet to decide if he really believed them. It was out of character for
them to try something so underhanded but this is the Fire Nation; they did what
was necessary to achieve victory. Maybe Zuko and Iroh had a cunning plan hidden
underneath it all; maybe they really were here for a new life. 
One thing was sure: He’d find out. 
“Enjoy your tea, sir?” Sokka jumped, not noticing Zuko approach. Iroh was
right; the blend he brewed reminded Sokka very much of home. 
“Oh, entirely. Tea with a view, what’s better?” Once again Zuko blushed as he
swept the cup and pot away. Sokka stood to leave, placing his money on the
table. “Oh, and Li? I’ll be watching.” 
The last words were barely a whisper but both could feel every syllable up
their spines. 
***** Peeping *****
Chapter Summary
     Wink wink, rating change!
Chapter Notes
     Again this took far longer than expected but have at it.
     Also Sokka, you're a naughty little sh*t.
If anyone had asked Zuko, Sokka had been sat in the corner of the tea shop for
far far too long.
The last few customers were on their last round of tea, finishing up games of
Pai Sho or reading the last news round of the day. Quite why anyone paid for
these news delivery services throughout the day escaped him as largely they all
contained clearly false tales of how amazing everything was in Ba Sing Se and,
by extension, the whole Earth Kingdom. Anyone who bothered to travel a few
miles outside the city walls would soon see that this is was patently a
falsehood.
Still Sokka remained ensconced in his little alcove. One had to commend his
diligence but did he have to be so irritating about it?
"It's nearly closing time. You're going to have to leave." Zuko didn't offer
the Water Tribe lad the courtesy of a look, preferring to concentrate on
mopping the floor.
"Oh, really?" No, I thought I'd say it for the hell of it. Zuko knew Sokka was
being annoying on purpose. Don't rise to it, let it go.
"Yes, really."
At this stage, the excuse for a bed their cosy little 'apartment' had looked
quite welcoming. Any place where you can wallow in your dreadful fortunes had
to be better than facing the world at large. Zuko wanted nothing more than to
forget about today; Far to many uncomfortable moments had bubbled their way to
the surface and he needed some time and relative solitude to process them all.
He sighed, staring down at the damp wooden floor. There wasn't really any way
to know if it was clean or not as the varnish was so hopelessly faded it looked
dirty even when it wasn't. He was vaguely aware that Sokka had stood up from
the shuffling sounds to his side.
Sokka chose that moment to gently run his hand up Zuko's spine.
Zuko shrieked in surprise, barely able to stop himself from turning around and
burning the little peasant to dust. He turned, using the mop as a makeshift
weapon to hook underneath Sokka's feet. Within moments Sokka as flat on his
backside with Zuko holding the mop centimetres from his throat.
"What the fuck do you think you're doing?" Sokka burst out laughing.
"You are soooo easy to rattle." Sokka used his free hand to wipe a small tear
from his face. "You really gotta lighten up Li." Zuko smoldered but released
Sokka, favouring instead to disappear out back. "Have a lovely evening!" Sokka
called out behind them as he left.
Zuko slammed the door that separated the kitchen and the storefront closed,
banging his forehead against it. Did some god decide that I was to have all the
bad luck in the fucking world? Please just. Just give me a break for once.
Maintaining their cover was difficult enough when his abject distaste for this
place and it's people bubbled mere millimetres from the surface but doing so
while not frying the water tribe peasant to a crisp would be next to
impossible. It was rare moments like this that Zuko being entirely alone let
himself succumb to the torrent of emotions underneath; silently, he began to
cry.
A gentle knocking at the door drew his attention.
"Li, are you there?" Iroh's voice sounded calm and warm though the twinge of
concern was evident. Zuko sighed to himself, collecting the momentary lapse and
replacing it with his trademark scowl. He opened the door and shuffled off to
the back of the room to finish cleaning the last remaining pots and teacups.
Iroh crossed the threshold, cradling a tea tray as he came.
"It would be wise to avoid antagonising patrons, Li. We want to keep our jobs
after all," Iroh said softly.
"I don't care." Zuko spat.
"You should do. If we are to make any inroads here then we need to keep face."
He was right even if that fact was incredibly irritating. As much as Zuko hated
his new lifestyle it was the safest course for now.
"He surprised me earlier, that's all." It was the truth. Though it was slightly
satisfying to knock the little shit to the ground, it was done entirely via
reflex. Though only a couple of patrons remained it must have caused a bit of a
stir which Zuko had left Iroh to deal with. Fixing my shit up, again.
"No doubt. His presence and, by extension, the presence of the Avatar is
unexpected though I suppose makes sense." Iroh mused to himself. "Ah,
nevermind. Come, the day is done. Let us make for home. Iroh placed his hand
against Zuko's shoulder, guiding him toward the door.
The walk to their apartment wasn't exactly a long one but it required
traversing two of the busiest thoroughfares of the city. The Yongkangjie was
the only street that ran from the main city gates all the way to the upper ring
district, making it a bustling route at all times of day.
Fighting through the throngs who saw fit to meander aimlessly rather than walk
with conviction took up around another half hour of their day.
The apartment they had found was one among many in a large, sprawling complex
of crammed little living spaces housing hundreds of people on a comparatively
small body of land. No such structures existed within Fire Nation cities; in
fact, this entire method of construction seemed rather alien if eminently
logical. Population and housing problems had stricken Ba Sing Se for years.
Ruthless efficiency apparently dominated in the lower ring.
The apartment itself was tiny. Barely three rooms and a small room for hygiene.
No plumbing brought water to the place itself requiring them to go down to a
subterranean well in the courtyard. There was, in truth, no real decor. The
wooden walls were left bare and untreated. Only the simplest of cooking
apparatus were present. Each of the other rooms contained a small but
serviceable bed and plain wooden tables; only windows and simple wax candles
provided illumination.
"I will make some broth for us, it'll go well with that bread from the market."
Iroh said more to himself than to Zuko. Zuko slumped into a chair at their
makeshift table, glancing out the window. The vista, if you could call it that,
was little more than a collection of rooftops and balconies towering endlessly
toward the stars. In what little light candles, torches and the awakening
moonlight gave, lengthy shadows were cast against opposing walls, sometimes
flickering in the firelight. Though many of the houses showed signs of life,
just as many had already gone to bed in anticipation of an early start
tomorrow.
A small thud drew his attention back to the room. Iroh was on his knees delving
deep into the cupboard space.
"Have you seen our sparkrocks? I swear I had them this morning when I made the
first pot of tea," Iroh looked as perplexed. Shrugging, he wandered toward the
front door and out into the corridor. Faintly, Zuko heard him knock on another
resident's door and greet them warmly.
Iroh had always been good at this. Even when Zuko was a small boy, he was
enthralled how Iroh had this inescapable way of working people. Even after his
eventual defeat at the first siege of Ba Sing Se, he commanded incredible
respect among the commonfolk and the enlisted ranks for his wise and amenable
disposition. Troops loved him. Zuko had never really understood why his father
and the other elites rejected him so.
Not the only thing I don't understand about Father. Fire Lord Ozai ruled
everything in his life with a combination of ironclad will and unfaltering
bloodline; what his sheer domineering character couldn't command his birthright
could. The Fire Nation had an odd fixation with one's lineage, far more so than
any of the other tribes supposedly did. Apparently the Air Nomads largely
rejected notions of parenthood at all, concentration on a collective
existence. No wonder they're all gone.
Zuko struggled long and heard with Ozai's way of life. Perhaps because his
mother was such an influence over him, Zuko had always had the nagging feeling
that the way the Fire Lord conducted himself was not only brutal but
fundamentally morally inept. He challenged Ozai on that very point only once.
He learned the folly of disputing the Fire Lord in no uncertain terms that day.
"I borrowed some from our neighbour, such lovely people. It's amazing how
people are so welcoming and generous in this city," Iroh said as he wandered
back into their apartment, advancing on the stove and lighting the fire. Zuko
had to admit it, people in Ba Sing Se seemed generally more comfortable with
gestures of kindness than he was used to back home. Then again, did he really
know what the people were actually like? Of course he didn't.
A momentary shuffle out the window caught Zuko's attention. It was barely more
than a glint of metal, probably a reflection of something in the moon's
hesitant gaze, but it definitely moved. Zuko peered at the balconies that
towered above their flat to the side, wondering if another movement might make
itself known. Quickly scanning the immediate area bore no fruit so he let it
go, every so often glancing out the window into the night.
Maybe he was being paranoid but in a city like this paranoia was no bad thing.
===============================================================================
 
That was fucking close.
Sokka's hiding spot was perfect. A good view of all the windows of Zuko and
Iroh's property, close enough that he'd be able to watch them but far enough
away that it would be difficult to see him in the light. However, it required
him to remain balanced on one foot as crates were stacked in just the wrong
way. Of course, Sokka being Sokka, he slipped.
Fortunately there was sufficient distance between his vantage point and the
property to for no sound to reach the window but Zuko saw something. Fuck, the
boomerang! The silvery metal must have reflected in just the right way to
attract his attention. Sokka didn't dare move from his bundle on the floor. He
sat there for must have been some 20 minutes waiting in silence, completely
immobile out of desperate fear of being spotted.
Quite a large part him was worried he had got a little obsessed now. Basically
just self-justified stalking now, if I'm honest. No matter how much he told
himself it was for the greater good, he knew the Dai Li wouldn't believe him
and he'd end up looking like a complete and total pervert.
However, Sokka had always been taught to follow through with his actions. Even
if they were questionable.
He peaked over the balcony rim. Zuko was slumped over a bowl of something while
Iroh lounged in his chair, gently cradling a cup of what was almost certainly
tea. It was pretty obvious that Zuko wasn't exactly pleased with his meal this
evening as the grimace would be enough to give little children
nightmares. Guess our prince hasn't adjusted to life outside of palaces yet.
Sokka had by now crawled his way along to another spot which had no pesky boxes
to impede him. This offered a better view of the other rooms than before though
he could no longer see Iroh.
So far neither of them had done anything that even remotely implied evil doing.
Iroh didn't even use firebending to light the stove which, though not evil,
would have been a dead giveaway had anyone actually seen them. The two of them
really were going all out to put up this 'new me' routine. Even when Sokka did
his utmost to piss his highness off, he still couldn't get him to show himself.
It had forced Sokka to acknowledge the slim possibility that the two of them
were genuinely there for 'good' reasons. He didn't pretend to know anything
about Zuko and his life prior to meeting Aang; he knew only that Zuko would
stop at nothing to capture the Avatar. It was the driving force behind
everything Zuko had done when they had encountered one another; there had to be
a reason for it. Curiously he'd never seen the Prince travelling with any form
of Royal Guards. Iroh apart, most of the soldiers they'd encountered
looked...well...like little more than pirates!
None of which had convinced him this little mission he'd assigned himself
wasn't important. While the others searched for Appa, he'd make sure someone
was always looking out for them. Cause I'm nice like that.
Zuko had clearly had enough of the gentle advice and nagging his uncle had
given as he stormed out of the living space and into one of the rooms,
presumably his bedroom. The frustration was obvious as he slammed items around
the room before settling down on his bed, head firmly within his hands.
Somewhere inside, Sokka felt a teeny bit sorry for him. Whatever it was that
troubled him was eating away inside.
Then, just like that, Zuko stripped his top and threw it across the room. Shit
this got more interesting.
Now Sokka wouldn't want to sound slutty but he'd definitely got close and
personal with a few gorgeous boys in his time. Who cares if it was cause he was
the chief's son or that wicked smile could charm just about anyone if it's
owner was trying, all it meant was he had some experience. This, however, was
something else.
Sokka had been with muscly types with no braincells. He'd been with really slim
guys that made him feel surprisingly butch, he'd been with guys all the way in
between that spectrum. Zuko might as well have had the Goldilocks porridge of
bodies. That torso was criminal! Toned and athletic with a defined V heading
down below the trousers, the etchings of packed muscles in the right places all
without being overly bulky. He had the build some of the older warriors took, a
swimmers figure. It was the figure of someone who required speed in equal
measures to strength.
Maybe, just maybe, I am a pervert after all.
Zuko proceeded to strip off the leg wrapping he'd been wearing. Just as before
he clearly had strong, powerful legs but they remained relatively slender. It
would be easy to be deceived of Zuko's prowess with the right clothes as for
all intents and purposes he appeared fairly scrawny at first. Zuko positioned
himself within the room and began what appeared to be something like tai chi.
Who would have thought the universe would see fit for Sokka to be treated to
the view of an arguably attractive guy performing martial arts in his
underwear? Yes, it was Zuko, but he couldn't help that could he?
Zuko continued to practice for what must have been 20 or 30 minutes. He'd
managed to squeeze in some muscle exercises as well as his martial arts stuff
in that time which seemed fairly impressive. After towelling himself down, he
looked to be settling in for bed.
Is he...? Oh icy hells he is. The dark undergarments lay abandoned on the floor
next to the bed. Shit this is wrong.
Whether or not you'd have a meltdown seeing your potential enemy/rival buck
naked laying on top of the bed depends largely on your personality. Oh, and
whether you're meant to be looking or not, of course. Sokka was slightly
panicking at this stage and yet remained transfixed at the window. He'd be
lying if he said he wasn't enjoying himself a little...
It dawned upon the Water Tribe boy that Zuko was actually on the bed, rather
than in it. He believed it was customary in the other nations to wrap oneself
in a blanket or something when going to sleep so...why wasn't Zuko?
OH. It seemed that exercise was not quite enough for Zuko to get rid of
whatever frustrations he had. Instead he'd have to hammer it out in other ways
(In any other situation Sokka would definitely laugh at his own joke there).
Sokka nearly choked when Zuko's left hand trailed down his chest, tracing
against the lines of his muscles until finding it's way to the slowly growing
arousal. He tentatively stroked the tip of himself, almost like he was
deliberating whether to actually try to get relief or not. Within moments, he
grasped his length and gave a few testing tugs.
His hidden audience had to bit his lip to stop himself from whimpering at the
sight. Damn that boy is gifted! It was only a matter of time before Sokka to
was rock hard and just that little bit desperate.
Zuko sped up a little, gripping a little firmer now while using his right hand
to gently caress the inside of his leg. It was hard to make out but Sokka could
see the Fire Prince's flushed face, bottom lip gently curled under his
teeth. This may be the hottest thing I've ever fucking seen. Each movement of
Zuko's hand grew firmer and stronger, growing in pace as the right hand drifted
slowly beneath his crotch and underneath.
Holy shit you...
He's playing with his ass. Zuko's eyes fluttered closed as he found the rim of
his entrance. He pushed against himself softly, testing for resistance. Within
a moment he'd pushed the tip of a finger inside, groaning softly at the slight
burn that went straight to his cock. To Sokka, that might just have been the
sexiest noise in the universe.
In a way it was confirmation Zuko was actually just like anyone else; at their
age, it was inevitable that hormones went two places. To the temper and to the
crotch; Zuko definitely had the first bit covered off so why not the second?
He's only human, something the Avatar team quite often forgot.
Sokka couldn't help but gently palm at his bulge underneath his clothes, taking
every shred of self control not to simply whip it out and have done with it. On
balance the risk of his discovery was already extremely high so sitting and
having a wank on someone else's door step might not be advisable.
Zuko's back arched a little as he pushed a little further, the pace at which he
tossed himself increasing to match. The lip had been bitten further under his
teeth implying he was trying his damned hardest to be quiet. Maybe he's noisy?
Nothing better than noisy. Each leg had parted a little giving him easier
access as he searched for the right spot inside that'd finish it all in an
instant.
There.
Within an instant, Zuko's hips bucked toward the ceiling as he came. His mouth
was wide open with silent moan, eyes fluttering as her road out his orgasm with
the finger on the perfect spot.
Sokka sat back against the wall. Did any of that just happen? And did I really
just sit all the way through it? Fucking hell. Judging by the moon hanging
lazily in the sky it must be getting on for midnight. Quite apart from the fact
he'd just spent a good long time basically perving on their sworn enemy, he'd
have to explain to them all where he'd been all day. Awh this just isn't going
to go well.
When he'd calmed to the point of being able to stand, he gently looked over the
balcony to make sure he was clear. Zuko must have found a way to clean himself
off as the candle was blown out and he lay huddled under the blankets looking
fast asleep. Now was the time to move.
Sokka quietly and slowly made his way away from the balcony, down the stairs
leading to the ground outside the building and crossed into the street in near
silence.
Behind him, a bed sheet hanging from the balcony above rustled in the gentle
breeze.
***** Who Watches the Watcher *****
Chapter Notes
     Zuko's a schemer and Sokka well...perving gets you in trouble.
     Que wildcard!
See the end of the chapter for more notes
No way did that just happen.
There was no denying that seeing Zuko like that, pent up and clearly horny, was
one hell of a sight. However most people would agree that watching someone toss
themselves off from a hidden crevice outside their window was morally
questionable. Zuko being Sokka and the Avatar's primary enemy just added
further complications.
Still...Zuko was hot. Like...really hot. That sort of absolved him, right?
"Just where the hell have you been all day?" Katara bore that look that said
she wasn't messing around. Though usually tranquil, she could be pushed into a
whirling tempest when angry enough. Sokka was usually the route of that rage.
"We've been looking for you for hours and you just waltz in here like nothing's
happened? It's the middle of the night!"
He'd not really been conscious of the walk home from the lower ring. The
multitude of streets soon blurred into one aimless grey mass before he reached
the middle ring whose roads and streets were all laid out logically. By that
point, the route to the upper ring was a simple stretch of road. He drew no
more attention than furtive glances from the guards at the ring entrances.
Before long, he was home (which was just about long enough to quell that
uncomfortable bulge in his trousers).
"I've been looking for Appa?"
"All day? Into the middle of the night?" Aang wasn't immediately visible,
asleep perhaps. Toph sat in the corner of the room with her back against the
wall, a faint smile parting her lips. It dawned on him that though his
statement wasn't exactly a lie it definitely constituted a half truth. Could
Toph's senses detect something as subtly nuanced as that? He sure as hell hoped
not.
"That's what we're supposed to be doing, right? You guys wandered around the
upper and middle rings so I thought I'd try the lower one. There are like,
thousands of people that live there you know," Sokka tried his hand at moody
teenager. Katara wrinkled her nose and turned away flustered.
"Fine, whatever. Did you find anything useful?" Katara slumped down on her
bedspread on the floor. A bundle of blankets snored softly which could only
have been Aang. Surprise surprise she was next to him. She thinks I don't know,
pfft.
"Frankly, nope. A lead or two that might take some time to crack. Has anyone
else noticed how people act really...weird here huh?"
Katara nodded glumly. She too had noticed a degree of fear among the populace.
People spoke with a deliberate hesitancy. There were certain topics they
judiciously avoided, certain people they avoided looking at, certain paths in
the city they simply would not tread. The overriding impression was that the
haven of Ba Sing Se was everything but. That was without the constant shadowing
buy Joo Dee; she had this amazing art at feeling just imposing enough to be
annoying but not enough to be outright offensive. That sort of shadowing
personality required some real skill to pull off.
"I told you guys this city sucked," Toph sighed as she spoke. "It's not just
cause I hate the busy city but Ba Sing Se is...weird. Isolated. The people are
like scared sheep or something."
"Do you think this is something to do with the Dai Li? Joo Dee mentioned them
and there's some shady guys in black cloaks wandering around the place..."
"Could be. What did she call them? A Cultural Authority...sounds pretty vague
to me," Katara pondered.
"Maybe we can find a little more out tomorrow." Sokka suggested as he slunk
into one of the side rooms he'd put his sleeping pack in. Frankly he thought
he'd got away pretty scott free.
"You're a shitty liar you know," Toph whispered around the corner of his door.
Fuck.
===============================================================================
 
The following morning did not bring Zuko any real comfort. He'd tried
desperately to get a certain dark skinned water triber out of his mind
throughout the exercise and subsequent 'relief' session. The last thing he
needed was to indulge in a completely inconvenient and frankly unworkable
crush.
Dragging himself out of bed at some point coinciding with the dawning had grown
tiresome on the second or third attempt. Perversely it was slowly becoming
routine, it was becoming the norm. And frankly Zuko absolutely hated that.
Almost as much as he hated eating the same dreary, mundane tasteless food which
seemed so common in Ba Sing Se. But the worst thing, beyond it all, was the
utter meaninglessness of it all.
Even after banishment from his home, Zuko had always believed his actions had a
greater purpose. Through his only little crusade he would be helping the Fire
Nation to achieve further greatness than it already had. His life from his
earliest memories was defined by service to a nation; sure it came with
trappings of Royalty but the duty that lifestyle required was to a calling.
Working in a tea shop was, comparatively at least, utterly meaningless. How do
you adjust to the monotony of every day life?
Neither he nor Iroh spoke much in the walk from their home to the tea shop. By
now the sun had bleached the skies above them to a murky shade of orange. The
daily battle between the fire and the darkness took it's routine turn in favour
of light. Iroh had learned to respect Zuko's complete inability to socialise
early in the morning. He too often valued the contemplative quiet of the
dawning.
The shop opened without incident. The regular crowd came as it always does,
slowly expanding as more and more people became aware of the new resident tea
master.
Around late morning, Zuko took a brief respite outside. The air was heavy in
wake of spring but not oppressive; it reminded him of the climate at home.
Until now, he'd not really had an opportunity to think about what to do going
forward. Once again the Avatar was within his grasp. Little more than a city
separated them; he may never get a chance so opportune. The Avatar represented
the key to his redemption in the eyes of his father and the upper echelons of
Fire Nation society. The only thing he'd dreamed of for the last couple of
years and it was ripe for the picking.
He leaned against the wall out the rear entrance, rubbing the slowly thickening
frond of hair away from his face. Seizing the Avatar didn't come without it's
problems. He'd have to fight his way past the water bender who, contrary to his
initial belief, was remarkably capable if poorly trained. The Avatar himself
fought defensively and lacked the final kill instinct but that didn't stop him
being formidable. 
Zuko would have to betray the confidence of his uncle again. Iroh may have
greater patience than anyone Zuko had ever known, except perhaps his mother,
but it would not be infinite. One day Iroh would run out of it. Zuko feared
that almost more than anything else.
And then there was Sokka. Whatever feeling/attraction/etc that was going on was
just a complication he could really do without.
"Well well. Who'd have thought."
Zuko startled, jumping to the side.
The figure leant against the wall of the tea shop. HIs arms were crossed firmly
while he stood chewing a single stick of wheat, scowling all the while.
"Jet...I uh...hi," Zuko blushed a little. To anyone familiar with his usual
confidence this would have seemed an unnatural behaviour for him.
You see, Jet thought of Zuko (or Li has he knew him) as nothing more than
another victim of the war Ba Sing Se knew nothing about. Jet was one of the
first people to treat Zuko with complete equality (rather than deference and/or
fear) and...it was nice? Who knew whether the attention or Jet himself
triggered those long dormant little buzzes inside. Did it really matter?
He hadn't seen Jet since they shared that night together before the refugee
ship reached Ba Sing Se.
"I didn't take you for the serving type," Jet smirked a little. "At least not
in public." Zuko blushed a little bit further.
"Work is work, it gets us by." Zuko answered honestly.
"Yeah. Not quite stealing from the rich and giving to the poor like the
shipmaster is it?" There was a certain irony in the Robin Hood heroics but Jet
was blissfully unaware of that.
"I guess not. Beats doing nothing I guess," Zuko shrugged. "Why are you here
anyway?"
"Oh, you know. Just scouting out the city." Jet smirked again. "I don't have
any friends here besides Smellerbee and Longshot and all."
"I guess I don't count." It was a statement from Zuko rather than a
command. Not like I give a shit anyways.
"Were we friends?" Zuko winced a little at the venom in Jet's voice. He had a
hard edge to his eyes that Zuko had never seen before.
"I dunno, were we?"
"I thought so." Silence.
Jet grunted. "Well whatever."
"What is your problem?" Zuko spat it out more on impulse than anything. He'd
never admit to being a hurt by the seeming sudden change in Jet's behaviour but
it was there. What they shared was little more than a fling tacked on to a
friendship of convenience but clearly Zuko valued it.
"Tsh, my problem..." Jet turned away, moving to leave. "I'm sure you'll see
soon enough."
Zuko reached out toward Jet and touched his arm. He could feel the other tense,
fighting the urge to recoil at his contact. "Jet."
Why Zuko had reached out to stop him from leaving was unknown to him. He
seriously doubted there was anything that made their former intimacy anything
more than a supplement to their friendship but friendship is still important. A
small quiet part of him wasn't willing to let go of one of the only 'friends'
he had ever had.
Jet paused for a moment. The conflict going on just behind those dark, silent
eyes hung in their air for what felt like an eternity. Suddenly he pushed
against Zuko, forcing them both against the wall with Jet's arms bracing either
side of Zuko's face. He was close enough he could feel Zuko's surprised and
anxious breathing.
Zuko hung there unmoving. Though he felt inside Jet wouldn't harm him, there
was still the enormous elephant in the room; Jet's passionate hatred for the
Fire Nation. He'd never shown any sign of suspecting Zuko's true origin but he
definitely felt...different. He felt predatory.
After what felt like eons of waiting, Jet gently pressed his lips to Zuko's
cheek. "I would watch your back, Li. Who knows who'll be watching."
As quickly as he had approached, Jet turned and left leaving Zuko staring into
space.
Does he...suspect me? 
It was a valid question. Nothing he or his uncle had done since they
encountered Jet would have given them away that he could remember. They'd
always been so careful in pu....The Tea! I knew that'd bite us in the ass at
some point. Zuko deduced Jet must have seen Iroh firebending is tea warm in the
ferry port in their arrival to Ba Sing Se.
With yet more burdens on an already troubled mind, he returned to his work. The
usual set of customers and the busy lunch crowd passed smoothly, beyond that
annoying girl constantly trying to get his attention. He'd considered flat out
telling her he hasn't interested but decided it was hassle that wasn't worth
it. The manager had made a rare appearance in the shop that afternoon, chatting
to the slightly more well-to-do patrons over the new tea blends which were of
course entirely his doing. Zuko again managed to refrain correcting him...but
only just.
Still Sokka had been nowhere to be seen. He knew better than to think Sokka had
simply forgotten to turn up so assumed Sokka must be watching from elsewhere
today.
Time passed as it always does. The quiet evening allowed Zuko time to think
once again.
Jet could prove to be a problem. Someone with so much anger goes looking for a
way to burn it and, if he really did suspect Zuko and Iroh of being from the
Fire Nation, he wouldn't back away from that so easily. They'd have to be extra
careful in future to reveal absolutely nothing. Somewhere inside he regretted
getting intimate with him; not least he felt...guilty. ugh. He know Jet's
feelings toward the Fire Nation, he made them obvious enough. And yet he still
went ahead with it. Kind of a dick move, Zu.
For the moment he agreed with himself to wait for an opportunity regarding the
Avatar. If something came up that would was an opportunity to good to miss then
he'd take it. Until then, He'd wait and see.
As for Sokka...what the hell do you do with Sokka?
"Li, could you close up the shop front?" Zuko wasn't even aware of the time. A
small twinge of guilt lead him to wonder how useful he'd actually been that
day. Still, Iroh never complained.
Within minutes, another day was done.
===============================================================================
 
"Jet? Really?"
Sokka had managed to find himself an excellent vantage point underneath one of
the few trees near the tea shop. The middle and upper rings of the city were
awash with great varieties of fauna but the lower levels were lacking. He lay
there, seemingly relaxing in the shade on what was a beautifully sunny day.
The arrival of Jet had been an unexpected development. The Avatar team's brief
relationship with him had ended very much badly; though his actions toward the
innocent villagers could be explained they could definitely not be justified.
He thought Katara had a bit of a thing for Jet but who could tell.
Holy fucking shit. Jet kissed him. Did he kiss him? It was difficult to tell
from that angle but it definitely looked like it. No way. No way no way no
way. Jet kissed Zuko and Zuko didn't turn him to molten human.
Zuko likes guys.
You know those moments in life when a revelation hits you hard enough it sort
of destroys your grip on reality? This was a moment like that for Sokka. Icy
hells Zuko is gay. The Prince of the Fire Nation is gay. The political
ramifications were enormous let alone the personal ones. He couldn't remember
anyone of any prominence in the history of the Water Tribes that swung his way
not that anyone really cared. How would the Fire Nation treat it? Surely a
society known for its traditionalism would utterly reject it.
Maybe that's why he's not at home with his family. Sokka had no idea whether it
was relevant or not but it made some sense. Shit. As if I didn't crush over him
enough.
Jet stormed away wearing a face of fury and indignation leaving Zuko
looking...well..confused, actually. The Fire Prince stared into the distance
after Jet. After a time, he retreated away into the restaurant.
Frankly the rest of the day went fairly slowly. The girl that kept hanging
around the place showed up, a few recognisable faces from his first visit.
Evening came and passed.
It gave Sokka an opportunity to actually get control over the racing torrent of
thoughts in his head. Straight after he'd found out, the first thoughts were
decidedly not appropriate. He had to admit that his little crush on the Fire
Prince was quite a lot less little than he had at first admitted to. It's cool.
Nothing will ever happen. Just...gotta get on with stuff.
Following Iroh and Zuko home proved easy enough. Zuko looked more skittish than
before, glancing around him and at the taller buildings more then before.
Perhaps Jet had him worried. Asshole freaks me out.
They appeared to follow a similar evening routine as yesterday. Some food, Iroh
chatting away to Zuko while the youth remained stoically silent. Occasional
grunts and single word responses were all the elder fire bender appeared to be
getting.
Sokka felt braver today. He had concealed himself closer to the property and on
the same level as their apartment. A large box sheathed on netting served as an
ideal place to hide while retaining a view of the property.
You two are remarkably good at the innocent act.To anyone not more experienced
they were simply an old man and a young relative getting on by. The only thing
that gave them away was the telltale amber glow of their eyes; you can hardly
prosecute someone for their eye colour.
I wonder if you actually believe this little story you've spun yourself. You’re
doing good at convincing people. Hells, even I am beginning to wonder.
Zuko briefly came outside into the courtyard to fill two large pales full of
water. Once back inside, Sokka could see him boiling the water on the stove; he
found himself surprised Zuko had the wherewithal to refrain from firebending
the water warm though it made sense. Should anyone (ahem, Like Sokka) be
watching from outside then they'd spot it almost immediately.
The two pales of water seemed sufficient to fill up a tin bathtub Zuko had
moved into his room earlier, at least enough that it would cover some of his
body.
Icy hells. Sokka caught his breath before he could groan; Zuko pulled away his
clothes in easy simple motions leaving the sculpted body in full view of the
window. Sheesh doesn't he think about neighbours? Body confident asshole.
Zuko lowered himself into the water, seeming to barely take any notice of it
being burning hot only moments earlier. Fire Nation, tsh. For the first time,
Sokka saw him looking almost relaxed. Well. No. Calmer than usual at any rate.
Though Sokka couldn't see anything particularly untoward, he could see the
rapidly growing mess of hair and those eyes closed idly. Anyone would think
Zuko was asleep.
What the hell am I doing? You keep telling yourself you're protecting the team
by watching Zuko and Iroh. It's bullshit, isn't it Sokka. Yeah. It probably
was.
A stone knocked from the ledge above him. He quickly looked up, shifting
further under the canopy of netting that shielded him from prying eyes. There
was no sign of anything or anyone there but he swore there was the faintest
slip of fabric at the edge of his vision as he looked up. Who'd come looking
though? Would one of the guys have followed him? The Dai Li maybe?
Who are the following, me or Zuko? Sokka panicked. He looked for obvious signs
of movement around them but could find none; his escape route was essentially
across the courtyard right in front of Zuko and Iroh's building. This is bad.
Sokka turned back toward the bathroom to find Zuko gone. Shit. He must have
heard the noise. Sokka made a move to shift out of the netting; since Zuko
wasn't looking this was about the right time to make his move.
That was, right before a firm hand pulled him from the netting and threw him
across the courtyard. Sokka landed against the wall with a heavy thud. He
gasped for breath, winded by the impact, unable to look up toward his
assailant.
"You." Oh fuck.
Regaining his composure enough to glance upward he saw what he was seriously
hoping he wouldn't.
Zuko stood with his arms folded in nothing but a towel, hastily tied around his
waist.
"Oh uh...hi Zuko," Sokka giggled nervously. He's wearing virtually fucking
nothing, holy shit. He could feel his cheeks burning a deep shade of red.
"What are you doing?" Zuko didn't exactly sound angry but there was a definite
edge.
"Uh, well, you know..." Sokka really had no idea how to even begin to explain
it. Sure he took this 'watchman' job seriously but this crossed a line didn't
it?
"No, I don't. Perhaps you'd like to explain it to me," Zuko paced toward him
slowly, arms not moving from their crossed position.
"Look Zuko, I'm gonna level with you on thi...eek," Zuko stood no more than a
pace away from Sokka who was, for all intents and purposes, trying to merge
with the wall behind them. A distinctly uncomfortable constraining feeling in
his underwear reminded him that Zuko was right fucking there and he was
essentially naked and icy hells please don't notice. "You got me. Spy Sokka
keeping watch, told you i'd keep an eye on you. But yeah, I totally get I
crossed a line or whatever so I'm just gonna get gone and hopefully never speak
of this again." Sokka made a motion to the side but was halted by Zuko's
powerful arm clamping tightly on him.
"Crossed a line?" Zuko smirked with a knowing shit eating grin and oh no. "Is
that why you can't stand up properly?" He saw it.
Sokka stayed silent. He was totally out of wise crack comments though the last
10 minutes had been waaaaay below his usual standard.
Zuko on the other hand felt a surge of power. He felt at last he had something
to fight back against this irritating water triber; all those smartass comments
and now Zuko had him trapped and over a barrel. Over a barrel huh. When he had
decided to wait for an opportunity to make his move, he didn't realise it would
take this form. Still Sokka was easy on the eye; who would complain if he had a
little fun on the journey to the Avatar?
To both their surprise, he braced Sokka against the wall and kissed him
roughly.
Well. Shit.
Chapter End Notes
     Y'all know what comes next boys and girls
***** For one night only *****
Chapter Notes
     The moment you've all been waiting for you filthy lot.
See the end of the chapter for more notes
Sokka short circuited. Is this really happening?
Zuko, the Crown Prince of the Fire Nation, the Avatar's most persistent enemy
and the possessor of a frankly criminal body had him pressed to a wall lip
against lip. Sokka couldn't help but moan at the strength of contact, giving in
to passion a moment later and kissing back just as firmly. Zuko braced his arms
against the wall behind them and pushed his almost naked frame against the
slighter Water Triber.
Sokka felt an incredible heat; Zuko radiated a burning warmth against Sokkas
comparatively cold body. It was the kind of fireglow warmth he and his family
had huddled around back home but in human form.
He ran his arm against Zuko's, tracing against his pale skin. Before he even
realised he'd hooked his other arm around Zuko and pulled him firmly chest to
chest. He could feel Zuko smirk slightly as they crashed mouth against
mouth. Smug prick. For a short while each battled for control and dominance
like it were a game before Sokka felt himself give way to the more insistent
partner. He shuddered at a new intrusion pressing against his groin. Zuko's
budding firmness felt both dangerous and fucking delicious as it pushed against
Sokka's crotch.
Sokka broke free from the other's embrace, panting. "Maybe we should...uh..."
"Up the crates, they're just below my window," Zuko began to climb his way
upwards against a set of storage crates lined up next to the building with
Sokka in tow. This would have been a perfect opportunity to escape but
something compelled him to follow. The last step into the room was a little far
to reach for Sokka but Zuko, in a surprising show of care, leaned outward to
pull Sokka upwards. It was a little faster and more forceful than Sokka had
anticipated and he lost his footing as he stood on the sill.
Sokka fell through the window landing on top of Zuko who
had definitely orchestrated that little happenstance. Zuko pulled Sokka down
toward him to meet again in a fiery embrace. If he was going to fight dirty
then Sokka would have absolutely no qualms about doing the same, pinning Zuko's
hands down to the floor and rolling his hips against the boys now proud crotch.
That got a reaction. Zuko arched his back slightly and moaned softly into
Sokka's lips, fighting against Sokka's grip on his hands. Sokka pulled away
from Zuko's fierce kiss and looked down, smirking.
"What?" Zuko halted for a moment to look up at the other boy.
"Just...surprised. I mean this...you..me.."
"Which bit, the 'I like men' bit or the fact you're two sheets of cloth away
from riding me," To accentuate his point, Zuko thrust upward at that moment
making another groan spill from Sokka's lips.
"Both? I'll go with both." Sokka leaned forward and gently bit along Zuko's
neckline, alternating from gentle nibbles to tender kisses against Zuko's skin.
He was tender and almost affectionate; definitely not what Zuko had predicted
or wanted. He took the momentary lull as his opportunity, forcing Sokka upwards
and turning him over. He took each hand in his own and pinned them next to
Sokkas head, Sokka's legs forced to bend around Zuko's waist.
"Better. You look so much better under me," Zuko pushed his lips against Sokkas
again with the same ferocity as before, timing each thrust with his tongue to
coincide with a new advance with his clothed erection. Sokka whined under the
pressure but couldn't deny he fucking loved this rough treatment. Zuko paused
only to strip Sokka of his top, exposing the bare chest underneath.
Sokka wasn't as strong or as athletic as Zuko but he was in good shape. Slender
with the faint cuttings of defined muscles beneath, framing his dark skin. Zuko
leaned further forward and bit against Sokka's exposed nipple, toying with it
between grating teeth. The water tribe boy arched into it, moaning louder than
before. Zuko reached over with a hand and pressed it firmly on Sokkas mouth to
stifle the groan.
"Shhh, My uncle is still here," Zuko bit a little harder against Sokka's
nipple. "Can you be quiet for me?"
Sokka might well have died at the tone in Zuko's voice. It commanded authority
and respect and was so fucking hot. He nodded, gulping a little in an attempt
to repress a moan at Zuko's attack on his body. He bit marks all the way down
his chest, leaving a few to bruise slightly.
Zuko smirked. Perfect. It felt natural to be in command whether it was a legion
or the boy beneath him. He trailed his ministrations down to Sokka's stomach,
leaving little marks against the sensitive spots at his side. But the real
prize lay below.
"ahh...Shit," Sokka tried his best to remain quiet as Zuko's hand teased
underneath the rim of his underwear at the now painfully hard contents. Though
he was loathe to do it simply because Zuko had told him to, the last thing he
wanted was to try and explain this to Zuko's uncle. Zuko wasn't about to make
it easy for him however.
Zuko used his legs to slide the towel free. It was the first time Sokka had
seen him bare up close. He couldn't help but notice that through a combination
of trimming and a well kept physique, Zuko's cock looked pretty darn big. Not
that he was complaining. Not at all.
The First Nation Prince wasted no time in stripping Sokka of his remaining
clothes and underwear, leaving him completely exposed underneath him. He ground
erection to erection, stifling a moan in Sokka's throat with a firm kiss.
Zuko paused to run his hands down Sokka's sides making him shiver. Zuko found
the permanent blush burning on Sokka's cheeks and his sensitivity to the
slightest touch absolutely mesmerising. Jet had fought him for control and made
their intimacy something of a game, a battle of wills until he finally gave in
to the other's willpower. Sokka though was like putty in his hands; mouldable
and flexible to what Zuko desired. It was perfect.
He took Sokka's length into his hand, stroking slowly from tip to base. Enough
stimulation to keep him squirming but nowhere near enough to bring him any form
of relief.
"You're a fucking tease," Sokka groaned, gently trying to push against the grip
on his length.
"You seem to like it." Zuko gently moved his mouth down to Sokka's cock, breath
ghosting over it's surface and making him quiver softly. Zuko brushed the tip
of his tongue against it. He danced over the surface from the base to tip as
gently as he could driving Sokka completely and utterly wild as he did it.
Finally, he took his entire length inside.
Sokka gently thrust against the warmth cause icy hells it felt amazing. Zuko
glared at him and pinned his hips down against the floor. "Come on, Zuko, don't
be...ah...don't be a prick." The pressure against his thigh grew a little
firmer in a silent reminder of who was in charge. Zuko ran his tongue up and
down Sokka's cock as he enveloped it in his warmth. It was enough to drive the
water tribe boy crazy.
Zuko loved this. He loved extracting every sound, movement and cry of pleasure
from his partner. It was a combination of a desire to please and proof he was
something of an expert. You learn some things when you spend years at sea while
stuck on a ship full of sailors.
"Zuko..." The Fire Nation boy shuddered at the desire dripping from Sokka's
voice. 
"Who'd have thought you'd look so amazing, panting and desperate." Zuko wasn't
really speaking to anyone in particular but Sokka heard every word. It made him
tingle down his spine, pushing up against Zuko's mouth and bouncing from the
back of his throat. Zuko choked a little before forcing Sokka back down,
swinging his hip over the top of Sokka's prone body. Now each of them had their
face to the other's hips.
The invitation for Sokka to return the favour was far too good to pass up. He
was far less interested in teasing than Zuko, preferring to get to the action
straight away. He swallowed Zuko's cock down to his balls first time making the
Prince gasp and moan out (which felt AMAZING around Sokka's, just so you know).
Zuko began to thrust in and out gently. He rocked against the wall of Sokka's
throat who took every inch without complaint or noise.
 "Shit...you're too good at this waterboy," Zuko continued slow, gentle teases
against Sokka's length while the other worked Zuko furiously. The praise only
drove Sokka to work a little harder; the power he had to get Zuko to unravel
was worth every bit of jaw ache.
Zuko began to grunt slightly as Sokka worked him. He could feel a familiar pool
of euphoric heat deep in his stomach as an orgasm began to build. However, Zuko
had other ideas and there was no way he was going to finish just there. This
might be a one time opportunity. Suddenly he pulled himself from Sokka, leaving
the other pouting with a loss of contact.
"What the..."
Zuko gestured for Sokka to follow him as he sat upon the bed. "Kneel in front
of me, facing the door." Sokka followed the command exactly, blushing down to
his neck at being so exposed in front of his companion. Zuko moved to his knees
and firmly pushed Sokka onto all fours in front of him. "Now...be still and
quiet for me." Zuko liked this part best of all. He leaned forward and gently
ghosted his tongue against the bare skin just above Sokka's vulnerable opening.
Sokka bit down on the bed covers to stifle the filthy moan that escaped him. No
one had ever done this to him before; it made him feel hypersensitive and
acutely aware of every pinprick touch as Zuko edged ever closer. Zuko used the
tip of his finger to tease against Sokka's hole before lapping at it, tracing
against the unmarked folds muscle.
"Zu..ko...shit, that feels amazing," Sokka gasped out, arching his back
involuntarily. Zuko worked the tip of his tongue a little further with each
gentle thrust earning more frantically muffled whimpers from the boy ahead of
him. Sokka descended into gelatinous pleasure, feeling heavy and weak at the
all consuming sparks down his nerves.
Zuko paused momentarily to open a draw to his side, bringing out a small vial
of liquid. He coated one finger with the oil and gently rubbed it against
Sokka's relaxed hole before pushing in. At first, the ring of muscle resisted
but the firm pressure Zuko applied passed it before long. Sokka whined into the
contact, savouring that familiar burning feeling. He'd never actually gone this
far before with someone else but had practised on his own once or twice. Zuko
was at once firmer and yet more skilful than he'd ever been, quickly going to
two fingers to keep that burn going just enough for Sokka to notice it.
"Fuck! There..." Found it Zuko thought to himself. He gently traced his two
fingers against that bundle of nerves inside the water tribe boy. Sokka's legs
shuddered at the intense feeling of it blurring his senses. He was vaguely
aware of how fucked out and filthy he must have looked but it didn't matter.
This was way too amazing to care.
Zuko kept himself going with his left palm, ensuring he remained bolt upright
while he scissored gently inside Sokka. When he felt the time was right, a
third finger was added. This burned Sokka a bit more than before and verged on
being the unpleasant side of painful but it passed as he relaxed and opened. He
found himself pushing back against the fingers inside him. Still it didn't feel
like enough.
"Zuko..."
"What do you want?" Sokka turned back and locked eyes with Zuko. The Fire
Nation Prince looked at him fiercely, both eyes incandescent gold in the dark
of night.
"I should...think...that's obvious," Sokka retorted back.
"Say it. I need to know you want it." Sokka groaned as Zuko pushed against that
spot inside him again.
"F...fuck me. Icy hells Zuko, I need it," Sokka panted. He wanted this; who
gave a shit it was his virginity, it was his to give away however he chose.
Zuko was making him delirious with need right now and he wouldn't be satisfied
with anything else.
He felt Zuko shift behind him. He whined at the empty feeling when Zuko pulled
his fingers free, pushing back against the air. Within moments Zuko was there
behind him, pressing his oiled up erection against Sokka's desperate entrance.
He hung there for a moment simply pressing against Sokka's rim.
"Zuko!" Sokka was about ready to cry at the ovestimulation.
"Work for it; push back on me and show me how bad you need it." Zuko sounded so
fucking smug but Sokka was far too past it to even care.
He pushed his ass backwards, moaning softly at the feeling of Zuko's length
sliding into him. Though Zuko had oiled himself up before hand, no amount of
lubricant or prep would prepare Sokka for the size difference between the
fingers and Zuko's cock. Sokka forced himself backwards right on the very edge
between pleasurable and painful until Zuko was seated fully inside him. He
felt full. Being so stretched out and open for Zuko felt....amazing.
Zuko was conscious of his size and felt the stretch the instant Sokka pushed
himself on top of his cock. Every fibre of his being wanted to fuck the boy in
earnest but he knew if he went too hard he'd hurt him. He gently ran his hands
up and down Sokka's back to encourage him to relax. This lad is...too much. Too
fucking much.
"Zuko, move." For the first time Sokka sounded commanding and Zuko was all to
happy to oblige. At first he thrust gently, moving slightly in and out to get
Sokka used to the feeling. He drew out new soft whimpers with every thrust.
Slowly Zuko began to speed up as he carded his hand through Sokka's hair. The
wolf-tail remained in place but an easy target to pull on; Zuko tugged softly
as he pushed harder and faster into Sokka's hole.
"You...feel amazing," Sokka gasped out as he pushed back in time with Zuko's
thrusts. The feeling of Zuko's cock inside him was almost too much but he
craved that feeling of losing control, craved the feeling of ecstasy that
seemed within grasp.
"Sokka..." Zuko grunted softly as Sokka clenched, gripping Zuko's cock as it
brushed its way in and out. Zuko changed his angle slightly and fired another
heavy thrust inside.
Sokka cried out, enough that Zuko quickly snapped his hand in front of his
mouth. Zuko fucked into him firmer and harder knowing he'd found the right
spot. "So good for me." Zuko whispered as he leaned against Sokka's back,
pistoning his hip into that spot again and again. The assault had Sokka's eyes
rolling; It felt simultaneously too much and better than anything in the world.
"So tight and perfect." He felt himself flutter at Zuko's lust-drunk
compliments and clenched a little more, earning another drawn out moan from the
Fire Prince.
"Zuko, shit...I don't know how long I can hold out." Sokka bit his arm after
speaking as his companion hit home with a particularly savage thrust.
"You cum when I say you can, not before." Ughhh shit.
"But...Zu.." Zuko pulled all the way out and shoved back in firmly to silence
the water triber.
"When..I..Say." He fucked into Sokka much faster and violently before, rocking
the bed in the process. He was close now as he felt that familiar pool deep in
his stomach liven up again. Chasing that orgasm down forced him to pound into
Sokka's now wet hole harder still. "Shit...close."
Sokka was mere moments from losing it completely. The feeling of Zuko's
monstrous cock assaulting that point inside him was too much, another few
thrusts and it'd be all over. "Zuko!"
"Do it!" The command was enough to have Sokka's orgasm hit him like a tidal
wave. He moaned loudly into the bed sheets below them, feeling himself cumming
a little bit more with every push against that spot from Zuko behind him. This
was the first time he'd ever managed to cum from anything in him and fuck it
was the most intense orgasm in the world. Unable to open his eyes he only saw
stars bouncing off the inside of his eyelids. His unintentional clenching hit
the spot for Zuko who bit down hard on Sokka's shoulder when he finally reached
his own climax. Through his now unsteady thrusts and Sokka's tightening ass, he
pumped spurt after spurt inside. It felt like his orgasm lasted for eternity
but eventually he slumped forward on top of Sokka who fell forward onto the
bed.
They lay there for a few minutes while panting out the come down. Neither of
them felt prepared to move both due to the warmth of the other next to them and
the mess that would ensue. Sokka could have sworn Zuko placed the gentlest kiss
to his neckline before he decided it was finished.
He pulled himself, now soft, out of Sokka leaving a trail of his semen dripping
down his cheek. Something stirred within the Fire Prince at the sight of it;
knowing it was the result of his actions that left Sokka in such a state made
him...proud. It felt almost like he was possessive. That he had staked his
claim to the boy laying out on the bed. Without speaking he pulled a towel from
the laundry pile and threw it at Sokka to clean himself with.
"So uh...are we gonna talk about that or?" Sokka gingerly cleaned himself front
and back with the towel. The post-coital glow set his cheeks ablaze and made
him struggle to stand.
"What's there to talk about?" Zuko said to him evenly. He'd deny it if anyone
had been in a position to mention it but that same rosy complexion was evident
against his pale face.
"Are you serious? Not to put too fine a point on it but we're supposed to
be...enemies you know?" Sokka whispered tersely while picking up is clothes and
pulling them on quickly.
Zuko shrugged. "You wanted it just as much as I did." Yes but that isn't the
point.
"So what are we...like...fuck buddies or something?" Sokka looked at him with a
slight pout.
Zuko huffed. "I wasn't thinking further than tonight."
"Oh...right well. Sure. I guess we can sort it out another time." Sokka turned
to extricate himself via the window and the boxes but a firm hand held him
back.
Zuko looked at him with a face that was...warm? Was it close to warm? Perhaps
even affectionate. It was a fleeting glance but it marked a complete shift in
Sokka's perception of the other. "Um. Look. I genuinely am trying to start a
new life here and whatever so...a new start with you is a good step. I'm down
for...another go some time." Zuko looked absolutely adorable when he was
embarrassed. Somehow even that red scar on his face blushed a little further
and the stammer suggested he found it difficult to talk about.
"Well...sure. I'm sure I'll see you around." It was a fragile agreement, a
tentative step but it was something. Their union was fraught with danger on all
sides but it was not unwelcome from either side. Sokka turned toward the Fire
Nation prince and kissed his cheek, leaving him stunned into silence. A moment
later, he dropped out of the window.
For Sokka, the potential danger was only part of the appeal. The truth was Zuko
had caught his attention from day one back home. Though he believed there was
never going to be an opportunity he didn't deny there was a strong attraction
there. His little heart fluttered when he had found out earlier that day that
Zuko swung as he did. Actually being able to act upon it and the inherent risks
of doing so were an unbelievable turn on.
Zuko simmered for the rest of that night over the feelings churning throughout
him. A healthy part of him genuinely liked Sokka and not just for looks. His
personality was such a diametric opposite to his own that they somehow gelled?
Having sex with him was completely and totally unplanned but it was something
he sure as hell didn't regret. In the end he justified it as a way to get close
to the Avatar team and to prove he really was looking for a new life out here.
Whether or not either was a lie to cover up the truth didn't matter.
On a roof top overlooking the room, a silent figure shifted in the moonlight. A
single stone fell from the roof onto the cobbled flaw far beneath them as the
murky silhouette withdrew.
Chapter End Notes
     Something wicked this way comes! Foreshadowing, emotions,
     Conflicted!Zuko and shit this was fun to write.
***** The Arrangement *****
Chapter Notes
     Let's get this show on the road. Zukko is sort of inferred un-
     officially a thing!
See the end of the chapter for more notes
Why the fuck did I do that?
3am Zuko is usually the most self-deprecating and tonight was no exception.
He'd gone from being comfortable with his decision, silently reminiscing (and
maybe knocking one out at the thought) down to existential dread after
realising the levity behind his actions only a few hours before. It was 15
minutes of frank ecstasy that could potentially unravel all in Zuko's face.
Amazing, passionate, sexy and debauched ecstasy it may have been but above all
else it was stupid. Damn damn stupid.
Sokka posed a threat. Not in any tactical sense, Zuko could easily wipe the
floor with him if he really wanted, but in a more strategic one. He'd convinced
himself leading up to it that Sokka could prove to be a valuable source of
information on the Avatar but that conveniently forgot the fact that the little
arrangement works both fucking ways. Could he trust Sokka to keep quiet? Hell I
wouldn't keep quiet. Sokka may have already been fully aware he was in the city
but now he knew where Zuko lived. He knew about Zuko's tastes which could be
used against him. He knew Zuko found him attractive which is pretty much the
oldest trick in the damn book to compromise the enemy. And there in lies the
biggest problem of it all.
He'd stopped thinking about Sokka as the enemy.
For that moment of weakness he allowed himself to indulge in passion. He'd
allowed himself to let someone into the emotional fortress that was Zuko. He'd
actually stopped detesting the Water Triber. He'd allowed himself to go soft.
No matter how much he tried to convince himself it was simple biology at play,
it just didn't wash. Sokka was not Fire Nation; every inch of his upbringing
told him to believe that made him inferior. The world required liberation by
the Fire Nation in order to usher in culture, art, technological understanding
and peace. That was the right of the Fire Nation; to rule and bring prosperity
to all. That was his birthright. And he'd let himself be manipulated by the
physical charms of one teenager from the Water Tribe. How much had he still to
learn at the art of leadership if he could lose himself to carnal desire simply
by looking at one hot guy.
It was this moment that his mind choose to flood his conscious senses with
images of the aforementioned teenager. The way those cheeks flushed at Zuko's
advances. The way he crumpled under his searing touch. The way he keened when
Zuko tasted him and teased, rendering him into a begging mess. Sokka was
delicious, responsive and Zuko burned with the need to extract every. little.
noise.
But you can't! It's too big a risk.
Psh, screw risk. Enjoy yourself for once in your miserable life.
Maybe I can make my life less miserable if I stop making stupid fucked up
choices.
Or maybe you've denied yourself enjoyment? Lighten up for a bit.
The internal monologue continued for much of the night. Missing out on sleep
was no unusual thing for him but usually he'd at least be able to meet a
meditative state. No such luck here. His thoughts were frantic and all
consuming, keeping him awake to the early hours of the morning.
"Zuko...are you alright? You look unwell," Iroh asked over breakfast.
"Just tired. Didn't sleep well." Zuko looked out the window to avoid blushing
at the memories of last night.
"Perhaps you could do with something to relax before you sleep?"
"A tea blend?" Zuko didn't mean to sound so exasperated but it just came out
that way. Iroh gave him a measured look as he mulled over his thoughts. "I'm
not sure drinking tea before bed would be wise, that's all."
"Perhaps you are right. But I will prepare it if you require. If you are
unwell, should you stay home?" As much as Zuko wanted to flop into bed and
self-loathe the day away he had a duty to perform.
"It's fine. I'll be completely fine." Iroh remained unconvinced.
Ba Sing Se's summer felt like it had finally come with the first truly warm day
since they had arrived. For the first time since his banishment from the Fire
kingdom, Zuko felt something akin to the burning heat of home. It wasn't the
same of course; the intensity of the heat-storms back home were world famous
but it was pleasant nonetheless. The sun hung in a cloudless sky, painting the
usually dim buildings with light. The markets had spilled out with people who
rushed to enjoy it. Children laughed and played in the streets while elderly
couples strolled from bench to bench.
It felt...Happy. The first time this alien city had felt happy to Zuko.
Work passed by without incident. Once again, the Earth Kingdom girl who had
become rather a regular had come in and insisted on being served by Zuko alone.
The sweet bun and Jasmine tea, coupled with a generous tip as she always gave.
Zuko was on the edge of breaking the news to her when her uncle decided it was
an appropriate time to offer him a lunch break (winking in the process).
"Uncle, what are you doing with the eye...thing?" Winking Zuko. It's called
winking.
"Well, I consider it an auspicious time to go for lunch, Li. There are few
patrons on a day such as this as so I can manage on my own. You should enjoy
some time away." Iroh tilted his head in the direction of the girl who sat
awkwardly looking in their direction. "Especially if you have company."
This raised a conundrum. Zuko had silently been building the confidence to tell
Iroh of his preferences for some time but never found the appropriate moment.
This hardly cut it. And that expectant face Iroh had, brimming with confidence
and pride. Zuko knew at that point that Iroh was trying to do him a favour:
giving him the gift of time. How could he refuse that?
"Alright." Zuko hung his apron and made a motion to head toward the door. He
expected the girl to make the move toward him and, low and behold, he had been
right. 
"Hey, sir. Wait up," The Earth Kingdom girl stood up and looked at him. "Could
I, uh...walk with you?" Zuko schooled himself into a thin smile.
"Sure." The stepped into the heat of the outdoors. Zuko flexed under the
sunlight while his spontaneous companion shied away at it. "Are you alright?"
He asked her in concern after spotting her obvious discomfort.
"Yeah, yeah. Not used to the summer sun is all. It's nice just...hot." Just the
way Zuko liked it. "I uh...I haven't caught your name yet. Mine's Jin."
"Ah. Mine's..." Once again he found himself stumbling over his name. "I'm Li."
"Well, it's a pleasure to meet you." She beamed warmly, eroding any visual sign
of sun-triggered malaise. "You must be new here, I've not seen you working at
the tea shop till a few weeks ago."
"Yes. Me and my uncle came in on a refugee ship not long ago."
"You're like me! A stranger to Ba Sing Se. it's supposed to be the jewel of the
kingdom but I simply think it's weird," She almost whispered the last bit,
looking from side to side.
"I can't argue with that. Not at all like home." Hah, how little she knew.
"So is it just your uncle you came with?"
"Yes. My family are..." All raving lunatics that probably put you and yours in
the situation you're in? "out of the picture." Jin assumed this meant they had
passed away.
"I'm sorry."
"As am I." If only it were as simple as all that.
"It's just I noticed you chatting to another customer that comes in now and
then that's all...Well I wondered if he was a friend." The interrogative tone
was obvious; she's probing.
Zuko unintentionally paused. What was Sokka? The enemy. A militant that has
fought the Fire Nation in numerous battles both with him and in the defence of
the Northern Water Tribes. And yet, that wasn't the first thought that came to
my mind.
"Well, he's sort of a friend." Jin nodded with an oddly resigned look on her
face.
"When did you begin dating?"
Zuko took that exact moment to fall over a treestump along the path. "WHAT?!"
Jin giggled.
"Sorry, I assumed you were..."
"Dating him?" Jin winked.
"So you aren't in to guys?"
"I never said that."
"Just not that guy?" Again Zuko paused, looking away in an attempt to hide the
flush that crept into his cheeks. "Aha, got you."
"What is it to you, anyway?" Zuko spat back with perhaps a little more venom
than was entirely necessary. Usually this would have most people backing off
but not Jin. The girl had confident charm down to a tee.
"Well, I have to be honest, I kinda fancied you and silently hoped you weren't
swinging thataway." She helped him stand again, before smiling warmly at him.
"But I can still use a friend, even if he's got eyes for another."
This was surreal. Zuko had been disarmed and deconstructed by some random girl
in the space of a 5 minute conversation and she treated it like...it was a
game? In any other time or place, he was sure he'd be offended perhaps even
enraged at the brazenness Jin displayed. Here though?
"You two looked pretty tense when you last talked." She had sidled up to a cart
selling a variety of warm weather foods.
"No surprise there," Zuko responded darkly.
"Trouble in paradise?" He considered for a moment whether to actually talk
about this or not. The notion of really letting himself go in front of a
complete stranger was ludicrous but perhaps it was actually the best option.
What did she have to gain? She was the only person of all those he had any
contact with not part of the war at large. She was the only bystander who
appeared to give a damn. What the hell?
"We ah...I'm not sure he or I are ready for a relationship. It could cause
trouble with our respective circles..." He paused several times over the words
as he thought of the best way to word it. He decided the fewer details the
better was best in this case.
"Not accepting families? Such a shame. The laws are clear and have been for
years. We aren't like the stuffy Fire Nation. You know they banned same sex
stuff a few years ago?" Zuko was unaware but not surprised. His father was
an old fashioned type. He'd of course be ignorant of the near millennia of
acceptance in the state if it didn't fit with the narrative he had in his head.
"Anyway, whats the deal then?"
"We have been...intimate. And I suspect will be again." Jin giggled.
"Naughty boys, sneaking under mum and dads noses huh? So whats the problem?"
"I don't know what our relationship means. Whether to continue, what nature it
should follow...I'm clueless." That at least was no lie. Zuko was entirely
hopeless at this. Jin considered as she slurped on some strange food stuff on a
stick.
"Don't label it. If you're at it in bed but don't want commitment then
just...go with the flow," She shrugged. Zuko considered this for a moment.
"You think that would work?"
"Well I don't know him and how he thinks but what's there to lose?" A hell of a
lot, actually. However it was a sign of Zuko's rapid change in priorities that
his 'duty' as his father would have put it quickly came up second fiddle.
"Perhaps."
"Give it a shot. You never know what you might get out of it!" She turned at
him and winked dramatically. Maybe having a friend, however fleeting, wasn't so
bad at all.
===============================================================================
 
 
The first real problem, apart from the blender of emotions swirling around
inside Sokka's head, was his now decidedly suspicious big sister. Katara knew
something was up. And that was a dangerous circumstance for anyone.
When Sokka returned home late again, Toph and Aang had greeted him normally. He
was pretty sure Aang was oblivious to everything as he usually was. Toph,
teasing little shit, remained tight lipped about whatever she'd hinted the
night before.
Katara however looked at him narrowly and didn't say a word. The weight of her
glare felt like a tangible force against his back as he pottered around their
home, putting stuff away and gathering some food. He thought the best tactic
was to ignore it and let her work out whatever it was that bothered her. Like
that'd ever work.
"Sokka, we need to talk." He felt himself being dragged out of the room and
through the panel doors into the garden space at the back of the property. It
was small but neatly organised with arranged flowers and pathways all circling
toward a small pond in the centre. He recognised a few unusual flower forms
from back home as well as some distinctly unusual plants that he supposed came
from the mountains. Maybe even the Fire nation.
"Are you going to tell me whats going on?" Katara's firm stance was unwavering.
She would not give up without a fight.
This was not an uncommon occurrence. A much as Sokka liked to portray the
strong and powerful Alpha male stereotype, he really wasn't all that much
compared to the determination of his sister. Katara was headstrong and
steadfast; Sokka generally wanted everyone to get along okay. If there is one
thing he had learned in his time with the Avatar, brokering any form of truce
between parties is sometimes simply impossible.
An uncomfortable line of thought when it touches dangerously on his precarious
fledgling relationship with Zuko. What did the Fire Nation boy want? Was Sokka
simply meat for enjoyment? Did Zuko really want to find himself a new life
here.
The look in his eyes when Sokka left him looked almost tender and vulnerable.
It was not something he'd ever expected to see on the face of the enemy,
especially not a Fire Nation Royal. The things it did to his heartstrings also
came as a shock.
He couldn't shake that nagging feeling in his head that Zuko was simply waiting
for the right moment to betray them. To betray him. Zuko's determination to
seize the Avatar was almost the only constant in their lives since leaving the
Water Tribe lands with Aang. How could that singular purpose be so readily
abandoned? Sokka expected it couldn't.
Sokka felt himself choke on the hastily planned explanation. He had it all
planned out in his head but the wave of hurt echoed through him, ruining any
sense of lucidity.
"I um...I told you, I'm just scouting around that's all." Katara's face
hardened a little further.
"Bullshit. Tell me the real reason. I won't judge you at all."
Sokka snorted. "Like hell you won't, it's your favourite past time." Katara
play slapped at his arm with the etchings of a smile curling her lips. "Okay,
okay. I'll tell. I genuinely was scouting around seeing if I could get any
leads. I got chatting to a guy in a tea room or whatever and..." He shrugged at
her as if to say the rest was obvious.
The expected look of disapproval never came. Rather Katara seemed to visibly
relax, huffing out a breath that she'd been holding for some time.
"You're ridiculous. All this cloak and dagger over a guy?" Sokka looked at her
like she was entirely a different person. I mean, this was Katara right? The
actual Katara?
"What?! I expected you to be all 'grrr, what about Appa, the world and all that
stuff'. You know, sensible?"
"Yeah well. We aren't making much progress so now its about waiting. Any lead
could be helpful, even if you have to get the information through other means."
Sokka looked at her before bursting out laughing. "Was that...was that a joke?
An innuendo joke? from you?" Katara feigned her offence. "Seriously
though...are we okay?"
"You're sensible enough to make your own choices. Mostly." That was all she
would say on the matter.
Sokka doubted very much he was sensible enough at that precise moment. What had
begun as little more than a crush had quickly flared into something far more
uncontrollable and it brought with it inevitable conflict.
Zuko was stunning, no way of hiding it. The way those eyes, even with the
limited movement in his scarred one, glowed like paper lanterns in the darkest
night skies. They wielded the brilliant golden flames of a world class
Firebender like beacons warding ships out of danger at sea. The way years of
meticulous training had developed a lithe but strong physique that had Sokka
salivating. The way he clearly had interest in Sokka; I mean hell, being
dragged into bed by the fire nation prince was pretty much the best experience
ever.
But there was more than just physical connection. In that brief moment before
he left, Zuko showed something different to Sokka. A vulnerability and
sensitivity, perhaps even nervousness, that simply wasn't becoming of the
Prince of the Fire Nation. Sokka thought he looked concerned. Embarrassed.
Maybe even scared. Over what, he couldn't say.
However it represented hope. Maybe Zuko isn't the fire breathing monster he's
supposed to be. Well dad, you did say the Fire Nation aren't always evil.
The following day Sokka had come to the conclusion they needed to talk.
Whatever this little arrangement was needed definition lest it be a risk to
everyone.
The tea shop seemed remarkably quiet that morning. The weather had taken a
rapid turn for the worse with the beaming sunshine of the previous day broken
up with dark clouds. Rain loomed though, by the time Sokka reached the tea
shop, it had been nothing more than a threat hanging above them.
Sokka sat himself in the spot he'd always sat, right near the doorway. It was a
great place to survey the rest of the room and keep an eye on the serving area
from a distance.
His breath hitched when Zuko wandered out of the back room. Is he...smiling?
Zuko was. It was only the faintest twinge of a smile on his lips and the
slightest softening of his brow but for someone so resolutely stoic it was
dramatic. All of his features from the high cheekbones, slender neck and
permanent scar seemed softened somehow.
When he spotted Sokka sat in the room he didn't react badly as expected. In
fact he seemed to blush a little. While those features hardened and the smile
diminished, it wasn't replaced with anything bad.
'Zu...uh. Li, could we talk?" Zuko looked at him with a contemplative look on
his face. After a time, he bowed his head in silence and hurried off to tend
the shop.
Sokka lost track of time watching him work. Zuko was meticulous and thorough,
moving from table to table with polished efficiency. Occasionally a fleeting
glance was cast in Sokka's direction as the Water Triber cradled the tea Zuko
had brought him earlier.
He realised he'd lost track of time when Zuko grasped his arm and yanked him
from the seat (much to the amusement of Jin who had wandered in). They marched
outside and around the back of the building, taking care make sure they were in
private.
"What is it?" Zuko stood with his arms crossed, staring intently at Sokka.
Sokka signed; Here goes nothing. "We need to talk about last night.
About...this." The last word he paired with a grandiose arm movement. Zuko
remained unreadable.
"Perhaps you're right."
"What are we doing Zuko?" Zuko's expression softened a little and he huffed.
"I don't know. I'm...conflicted about it."
"Conflicted?" Sokka totally didn't intend to squeak that out (that little Fire
shit with that smirk). Sokka couldn't help but fleetingly imagine something
more than just sex; something more emotional and deep. Forget it, push it back.
"The conflict of interest between us is obvious, surely." Oh. just that.
"Yeah But then you said yourself you're trying to start afresh right?"
"Right."
"Look. I don't even want to know what Aang and Katara are going to say if/when
they find out about this but that's my problem," Sokka stepped forward and
placed his hand gently against Zuko's shoulder. Zuko seemed to tense; feeling
an unfamiliar electricity bubbling beneath the palm of the Water Triber's hand.
"Last night was amazing. You seemed to enjoy yourself as well." He's cute when
he blushes. "This stuff about the new life...honestly, the jury is still out
but I'm willing to believe you for now. As for us I'm cool just keeping it
casual, no commitments. See where it goes." Sokka could feel his cheek burning
with the inference, comforted only by an equal shade on Zuko's face.
"You mean...go with the flow?"
"Great way to put it."
After all the worrying since Jin's conversation, Sokka had blurted out and
suggested it before he did. Zuko felt a little stupid to have been worried. If
Sokka was happy and content to make a vague step toward one another then so was
he, no matter how much the logical side of him questioned it. He wanted this.
Maybe being a little selfish isn't necessarily a bad thing.
"so um...how does this...work?"
Sokka's jaw dropped. "What do you mean, how does it work?"
"Um...are there rules or things we can't do or..." Zuko seemed to blush a
little more with every word. Clearly he lead a sheltered life compared to
Sokka, no surprise given his nobility. It hadn't even occurred to Sokka that
he'd be this awkward. There was a lot of him that thought the nervous and
awkward Zuko was pretty. Damn. Cute.
"No rules. We do what we feel like and when we feel like it. Wanna go again?
Sure. Wanna just talk, thats cool. Moonlit strolls through gardens, I'll tease
the shit out of you but it's all good with me," Sokka put his best calm,
commanding voice despite being overcome with sudden onset nerves.
"Well. Alright," Zuko sighed out calmly. "In that case...would you uh...like."
That same heat burned in his cheeks as he turned away, gently rubbing against
his arm. "Same time tonight, same place." He quickly left without waiting for a
reply.
Chapter End Notes
     Right ladies and gents. I'm thinking we're gonna start progressing
     toward Jet's arrest, Lake Laogai and then on to the fall of Ba Sing
     Se soon. I'm going to try a few gooey wake ups with Zuko/Sokka to
     ramp up the feelings as well as deal with each of the big plot points
     in turn.
     prepare for broken hearts and angst. It's a coming!
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