#maroh

After the ordeals of Book 1, they become smoking buddies whenever Iroh II visits Republic City. It started when Mako was peacefully smoking at his favorite quiet and solitary spot, and Iroh had found him. Mako didn't like sharing the space with anyone, but at the time he figured he couldn't say no the general and the Crown Prince™️ of the Fire Nation

Iroh II visits Republic City quite often, albeit always shortly. He was there when Mako's relationship with Korra was going downhill, and even offered some advice.

By Book 4, Mako was trying hard to quit smoking (Wu didn't like that he smelled of cigarettes sometimes). He still often visited the spot. He couldn't resist it when Iroh was smoking, so he asked for a cigarette

"Oh, don't let me get in the way of you turning a new leaf," Iroh said, while still handing Mako a cigarette

"It's hard to quit now of all times. Wu is driving me crazy!" Mako went on about Wu, noting that he and Iroh were 2 completely different princes.

At the time, they were already pretty close after years of just talking. They both found it easy to talk to each other.

Post Book 4, Mako officially had to quit for health reasons, since he had to recover from the spirit vine attack. He needed his body to be in top condition to speed the healing process. Still, he went to the spot

"Well if you're quitting, then I'll quit, too" Iroh said.

"Then there's not reason for us to stick around here then?" Mako retorted

"I rather like coming here and talking with you."

Iroh was about to be assigned a months-long mission, so he went to see Mako at the spot to say goodbye. It was a dangerous mission, and he didn't know if he'd make it out alive. He was supposed to confess his feelings to Mako, but began chickening out

"I guess this is goodbye, for now," Mako said as he placed his hand behind his neck. "I hope you.. I mean please come back alive."

Just as Iroh was about to leave, he spins on his heels and presses his lips on Mako, and to Iroh's surprise the younger firebender reciprocates. Iroh gives Mako a Fire Nation pin to remember him by.

During the mission, Iroh's fellow soldiers noticed the lack of the piece of jewelry. They teased him about giving it to a special someone, and Iroh's blush just about confirmed it.

The United Forces returned successfully from the mission, and was welcomed by the RCPD. Mako and Iroh couldn't help but steal glances at each other. One of Iroh's colleagues noted the Fire Nation pin on Mako's uniform. Iroh knew he wore it on purpose, and he was elated.

The whole welcoming ceremony was torture. It sucked that their professional personas held them back from one another.

The fact that Iroh's arm is burning but it is more important to hug the Mako

I had to cens*r everything so it can't hurt your eyes