The next month passed by quickly. After the thunderstorm that lasted for two whole days, the islanders went to their daily usual lives.

Sokka, however, wished it’d be endless thunderstorms, so that he could stay in the house with his wife forever. Talking, cuddling, playing games, preparing food clumsily and lovemaking, followed by taking a warm bath and lots of playful teasing and laughter.

But duty was calling and he went to his usual work mostly in the barracks and controlling points. Azula accompanied him every now and then. On other days she explored Kyoshi Island, spend time with the people and the guards together with Ty Lee often. Sokka made an official announcement, confirming Azula’s title as Crown Princess. Everything found its way. Keona apologized for his unfair treatment of Azula, which she accepted. Despite it all, she still was wary around him. Which was rare since Keano mostly accompanied Sokka and had other important jobs on the Island.

The weather became slightly warmer. Azula could see the sun again, since the fog had gone. She grew to like the rain and the fog, but it felt good to have warmer seasons occasionally too. It reminded her of the times she watched the sunset in Caldera City.

Sunsets could be seen clearly from her and Sokka’s house, which she never missed when she was home. Her arms crossed, she stood on the balcony enjoying the spectacle of nature.

Arms slung around her suddenly. A kiss pressed to her cheek with a pleasant humming noise. She instantly smiled.

“Hard day?” Azula asked, sliding her hands on his arms.

“Read too many protocols today. But it’s finally over.” Sokka said, resting his chin on her shoulder.

He waited patiently. When he was done he couldn’t wait to come home as quickly as possible. To Azula. His wonderful wife.

“You must be hungry.” she said.

“I definitely am.” he said.

Sokka felt a little melancholy coming from Azula.

“How was your day? Is everything alright?” he asked.

“I went to the bakery after my visit to the hut. Bought our favorite baked goods.” Azula said.

“Aren’t you the perfect wife.” he said pressing another kiss to her cheek, “Other than that?”

Azula smiled wide. He was just so mindful and attentive. How was he so amazing, she didn’t know.

“Alright, you caught me again Your Highness.” she turned around in his arms, resting her palms on his muscular chest, “You never miss anything do you?”

Sokka smiled lovely at her, pecking her lips.

“Can’t help it. Need to know exactly why my wife is troubled.” he said.

“It’s not a trouble. I was thinking that maybe I could work. As Crown Princess, maybe I could be included?” she asked shyly.

Sokka listened intently, taking her words and troubles seriously as always. Throughout the last month they talked about a lot of things, but he felt her holding back on some things. He always thought it was because certain things were painful for her, certain memories. Sokka would never want her to hold back with him. Yet he would never pressure her. He would try to read her eyes, understand her voice, and give her time. That she expressed her thoughts now, especially about her role as Crown Princess in his, their Tribe, made him very happy. He smiled encouragingly at her.

“What do you have in mind?” he asked.

Azula looked at him warily, yet with a smile. He didn’t even question her thoughts.

“The roles of the Royals are not listed in the Northern Water Tribe. Maybe centuries ago.” Sokka started explaining, “Well the male Royals and the men in general have certain responsibilities of course, which we proudly and willingly fulfill. Such as taking care of our family and providing their needs.”

“As for the women: well, no one would ever judge or question you if you don’t take part in working. But if it’s what you want, it’s respected and valued as well as motivating. But in our case, I would of course never want you to overwork yourself.”

Azula’s heart warmed more at his words.

“You know Sokka, I often wonder how lucky I am to be part of your, I mean our Tribe. To be with you.” she whispered the last bit smirking.

“It’s me, who is lucky.” Sokka said.

“I was thinking about school for one. Like, maybe including some new lessons that would be helpful.” Azula said, “Or I was also thinking to come join you in reading protocols and have an eye of the traffic on our outer islands?”

“That sounds great Azula! I’ll arrange a meeting with the head teacher next week?”

“That sounds great Sokka.” she said lovingly and they kissed.

“I need a bath.” he said.

“Me too.” she said.

Without warning, Sokka knelt and threw her over his shoulder, carrying her inside. Azula let out a shriek.

“Rude Crown Prince.”

Sokka laughed at her comment.

“Naughty Crown Princess.”

They enjoyed a round of lovemaking while the bathtub filled. After washing themselves, they relaxed in the warm water amid bubbles. Azula stroked his back scar, which he got used to. Every time she did that, it reminded him of the first time she asked him about it weeks ago.

Sokka, searching for clothes Infront of the wardrobe, felt Azula’s finger stroke his scar on his back. He went still. The scar still hurt from time to time. Right now, it felt good. It felt healing when she gently touched it. He felt her fingers trembling.

“Sokka.” she silently said, “How can you be so nice and polite to me and my family, when it was my uncle who did this to you?”

He turned around.

“I read the book. I won’t ever forget.” she said.

Sokka smiled, running his hand down on her hair once.

“I would never blame others for one person’s sin, if the others aren’t even included. Zuko for example has been my friend for years now. As for Iroh: I will forever loath him for trying to attack my sister. We never knew if he planned it, because it was a last-minute decision for Katara to go to Whaletail Island. What he did still can’t be justified, yet we could understand that hatred of a hurt father who just lost his son. In his eyes, it was our fault that he lost Lu Ten. But in his last actions, he went too far. It is never acceptable. This time, he deliberately aimed for me, us.”

Azula hugged him tightly, pressing her face to his naked chest, stroking his scar.

“Hey,” Sokka said, when she sniffed, trying not to cry, “It’s over now. Nothing hurts when you are with me.” He kissed her head, holding her close to his chest.

They talked leisurely at dinner. Sokka told her about the newest trading and what most likely awaited them in the coming weeks.

“As for working, maybe it’s time we slowly built a new foundation and form new ideas about a true partnership with the Fire Nation. Preferably with Zuko in the first place.” Sokka said.

Azula’s heart skipped a beat. She tried to calm down, wondering if it was silly of her to be excited about that, when Sokka actually wanted it from the beginning.

“Sounds pretty good. Zuko visited Water Tribe Islands often.” she said.

“Not only that, but we can also visit the Fire Nation.” Sokka said.

Azula looked up from her food eyes wideing. Sokka smiled at her reaction.

“This was my plan and wish for a long time now. For a trusting partnership. It grew immense after marrying you.” he said, taking her hand from across the table and kissing her knuckles softly, while still looking at her.

Her heart, warming constantly since coning together with him, warmed even more at his words and actions.

“I appreciate that and would like to have the same thing. But I doubt others will like it much?”

“They will, trust me.”

“What if Zhao or my father pull anything wrong?”

“They need to earn out trust of course. As far as things stand, all went smoothly so far.” Sokka said.

Azula raised an eyebrow at his claim.

“Except for Iroh of course.”

“I think it is actually a good idea. Start with ideas and plans. I especially would be glad to see my brother.”

“When we work on a plan and our court also sees it, they’ll trust you and me. And then, Zuko can also come visit us here on the island.” Sokka said.

“It sounds like a dream that wouldn’t come true.” Azula said.

“But it can be. It will be I believe in that.” Sokka said, “We also had meetings on the outer Islands of the Fire Nation.“ We can go there as well when things are safe.”

“Sokka, are you being serious?”

“Of course.” he smiled encouragingly, “So far, I visited some of the outer islands and also Fire Fountain City, which was the closest to the capital. Farer away was never allowed. But I heard Ember Island and Shu Jing are nice?”

“They are believe me. The scenery in the Fire Nation is always beautiful. Here too of course, but you know what I mean, just different. It’s also much warmer than here…” Azula kept explaining enthusiastically.

Sokka smiled, a little sadly. His chest hurt. Azula never once told him that she wanted to visit the Fire Nation. Never asked him for trading plans. Yet he deep down knew, she would welcome it. She might not miss the people she grew up with around there, except for Zuko, but she would surely like to see nature and the cities, towns and islands. And he would be excited to see it with her. He always wanted to see more of the Fire Nation. Going there with her, his wife, would be wonderful.

Azula slid in yet another one of her pretty dresses. Combing her hair in front of the mirror. Sokka couldn’t help but steal kisses. Pressing his mouth on her shoulders and neck.

Playfully and with laughter, they prepared for the day. Sokka loved hearing her laugh. It was one the most beautiful sound he ever heard.

The dining room wasn’t empty. Katara sat at the table, waiting for them. Azula and Sokka knew she’d be visiting today.

“Well, well, look whose here.” Sokka said.

Katara hugged him then turned to Azula.

“Good morning Azula.”

They only met two weeks ago after the event in the Northern Water Tribe. Other than exchanging greetings, they hadn’t talked much. Sokka didn’t urge them to, deciding it needed time. But he hoped they would slowly warm up to each other.

“Welcome to our home Katara.” Azula replied.

They sat together at the table where Yori prepared breakfast first and then left for the weekend.

“I have an invitation for the two of you.” Katara said, pulling out a scroll, that looked very elegant.

She actually handed it to Azula instead of Sokka. Azula seemed surprised at her “gesture”. She took it and thanked her.

Sokka neared her, peaking inside the scroll Azula opened.

The King & Queen’s 35th Anniversary

“Yeah, I had forgotten about that. It’s already in two weeks?” Sokka asked.

“Yes, they drive me crazy Sokka. I am so happy for them, but the enthusiasm and romantic gestures in front of me are too much to take. I’d like to stay here for a couple of days please.” Katara said.

Sokka laughed at that and Azula actually smiled. She was still kind of like a stranger to the royal couple. But she liked them. Even if Queen Kya’s actions the last time still baffled her.

“They are also excited to receive the Crown Princess properly this time.” Katara said looking at the person in question, “I think they’ll give you two tons of love advice.”

“I couldn’t get to know them so well the last time.” Azula said silently.

“Believe me, they are two goofy lovers. You might think after decades of marriage it would go away, but it didn’t.” Katara smiled, “Even if they can be annoying, they are dream couple.”

“Yup, they really are.” Sokka said, “But do you know who is even dreamier?”

Azula and Katara looked at him questioningly. They feared the answer but didn’t  say anything. Sokka’s wide toothy smile faded when no one talked

“Come on guys you know!”

When still no answer came, he huffed annoyed.

“Me and my wife! Crown Prince Sokka and Crown Princess Azula of course!” he said, pulling Azula to his side.

Katara shook her head and laughed.

Azula blushed but smiled despite herself. She never thought much of relationships. Yet deep down always had wondered if someone could love another person outside their family members, much. If a person would put a loved one’s life over theirs. And she silently wished, that if she would fall for a guy, it would have to be a true man. A man. When the world around them crumbled down, and the worst things would happen to her, she would press her head on his chest, stay in his arms that would be wrapped protectively around her and everything would feel safe…

She was in the arms of that man now. And she prayed and thanked God everyday for it.

Princess Azula of the Fire Nation.

Soon to be Crown Princess of the Northern Water Tribe and its islands.

Grew up trained by her father in fighting. Took education by the best teachers in culture, manners, and geography.

Her biggest mission awaited her on an island far away from her hometown.

Waiting for her father on the royal barge was nerve-racking. Azula has always been nervous around her father. Always thought she was never good enough as a royal.

Fire Lord Ozai arrived alongside his highest ranked friend Admiral Zhao. Azula has always had mixed feelings about that man. The Admiral was warmer to her than her own father, which made her feel more comfortable to be just herself around him.

Zhao gave her a small smile and a light nod upon entering the deck. Azula nodded back and greeted her father.

"Azula, I know this is a sudden happening, but as your uncle said, you are our only reliable chance at finding what we and your grandfather has been looking for decades."

Reliable chance her father was saying. Not daughter or woman, or simply a person. But a chance. She always felt like the royals were no humans but objects.

“King Hakoda has been strict in his trade and communication with the Fire Nation. The new Crown Prince, who now rules Kyoshi Island, is even more stubborn and took the seriousness of protecting his kingdom on another level. .”

The new Crown Prince. Her soon-to-be-husband.

"However, Crown Prince Sokka arranged more security and a new project that seems to make the Northern Water Tribe unreachable for outsiders. That guy is known to be a mastermind." Ozai explained.

"The water tribes, specifically the royals, are family orientated people. Although I hate to admit it, they are honorable and loyal people. Spouses never split up because they have respect for each other. When you become his wife, you can win his trust. And in doing so, you can find a way to enter the Northern Water Tribe." Zhao said.

"Kyoshi Island is as far as people can go. Only one ship ever entered the waters beyond that island. And you know what happened to it."

Lu Ten. Her cousin entered their waters, and his ship was immediately sunken. Iroh wanted vengeance. It happened when she was a child. She didn't think her cousin deserved to be killed just like that. But she wasn't sure how entering their land would bring him back or take away Iroh's sorrow. Though she wasn’t sure her father genuinely wanted vengeance. All he wanted was to build trust. By Fire Nation laws, Iroh has a good portion of right to voice out decisions, because he is older than the Fire Lord himself.

She would try her best to make the right decision, but part of her was scared. Although she was a trained fighter, she never had to use her skills outside the training field, for which she was thankful. The thought of entering an unknown kingdom, a kingdom that killed her cousin in his youth didn't help keeping her fear at bay.

"Remember child: You are our only chance to keep trade with the Northern Water Tribe and to find the Spirit Oasis, so we can also live without fearing our health." Ozai said, “It’s a wonder of the nature. And we believe we have a right for it too.”

He put her hands on her shoulders and squeezed them lightly. Like affection. Then he turned around and left Azula standing there frozen.

When was the last time her father showed physical affection? In truth, she couldn't remember anyone touching her with affection.

..........................................................................................

A week of travel on the ship and the air grew colder.

In the Fire Nation Academy, her teachers said that some people believed that snow lay on the Northern Water Tribe and its islands all year round. But that was not true. The islands had warm seasons and lots of green. More often than not it rained.

Azula saw the proof with her own eyes once they docked at the harbor of Kyoshi Island. The “capital city” of the Northern Water Tribe. Her heart skipped several beats when she laid eyes on the green scenery from the window of her room on the royal barge.

“You look so beautiful.” Ty lee said, her hands pressed together. Her father allowed her close friend to sail with them. They didn’t know if the royals of the north would accept her to their island yet. Azula was glad her childhood friend was here, since the week on the ship had been much lighter.

“I envy you Azula!” she said.

Azula raised her eyebrows at her comment. “Ty lee, you realize that this is duty, right?”

“It’s so adventurous and romantic.” she replied.

“There is absolutely nothing romantic about this. It’s a mission, don’t forget that.” Azula told her seriously. “Besides, it’s still not too late for you to change your mind. It could be dangerous.”

“Are you kidding me?” Ty lee said taken aback. “No way I’m leaving you! Who’d you take advice from about how to seduce your husband.” she giggled.

„Ty Lee!“ Azula hissed.

Despite herself, Azula smiled. She had no idea how the Crown Prince looked like. Even if this was „a marriage for peace-mission“, she hoped for the best still.

A knock on the door startled her out of her thoughts. Zhao entered the room.

„Princess, as we were fearing, the wedding ceremony is going to take place on deck of our ship. They’re not allowing us to set foot on Kyoshi Island. As much as we maintained a good friendship for a while now, they still don’t trust us enough yet.“

„Not surprised.“ Azula huffed. A wedding on deck of her royal barge. With a blue strapped dress. The color is a tradition of the Water Tribe culture. But her bracelet, a wedding gift from her father, was one fitting for a Fire Nation royal.

„It’s time Azula. They’re waiting.“ Zhao said. He took a step forward. „As much as we want to use their resources, as much as we hate his uncle and grandfather, we also know that Sokka is an honorable man. Women are treated respectfully here. Otherwise, no way your father would’ve allowed this.“ he reassured her.

Zhao has been more of an uncle to her and more of a brother to her father than Iroh. She really wanted to believe his words. She nodded and took the arm he offered to lead her on deck.

Water Tribe soldiers were standing all over the shore. Not one spot was left empty. Her father only allowed two Water Tribe Royal Guards and Princess Katara, her sister-in-law, on their ship.

Azula greeted her father first and then turned around.

There he was standing. The Crown Prince of the Northern Water Tribe and its islands. And her soon-to-be-husband. He was at least a head taller than her. Broad shoulders, muscular arms, with scars on tanned skin. Proof that he was a fighter himself. She slowly lifted her head to see the features on his face, and he was already looking at her. Did he see the way she looked? His eyes were the classic Water Tribe blue. His cheeks had stubbles, which grew longer on his chin. Deep brown hair that was bound into a wolf tail. He took care of his looks that was clear.

„Welcome to Kyoshi Island.“ he said. His sister next to him repeated. They nodded, as a way of greeting.

„Are we really welcome?“ her father asked. „I expected to witness my daughter’s wedding ceremony on the Island your majesty.“

Sokka just shrugged his shoulders. „Security reasons.“ he said leisurely.

He looked at her again and bowed slightly, only for her. There was nothing soft on his features, but he showed courtesy. He took a step forward and reached out his hand towards her.

„Princess Azula.“

Azula looked at his steady hand. She feared, Her’s wasn’t as steady. Besides her she felt her father’s tension because Sokka’s hand was still stretched out, which made her more nervous. With slow motion and inner control, she took Sokka’s hand. Her hand felt sheltered in his strong one once he closed it around Her’s. Weirdly, she liked the feeling of it.

Gently, Sokka pulled her to him, then turned sideways slowly letting his hand slide away from Her’s. He lifted his palm as one of his royal soldiers came to stand near them. Azula, again slowly, put her palm on his. She learned in her lessons that this was the beginning of the wedding ceremony. Zhao gave the Royal Guard, who stood in the middle, a dark red and gold ribbon which the guard bind around their pressed hands.

He started talking and she looked at him once, then at Sokka, who didn’t tear his gaze from her once. She watched him with the same intensity he watched her.

The guard asked them to promise, to only cherish each other, to stay loyal, to fight side by side and respect each other.

„Do You, Princess Azula of the Fire Nation, daughter of Fire Lord Ozai and Fire Lady Ursa, accept these vows and do you take Crown Prince Sokka as your husband, become his wife, become Crown Princess of the Northern Water Tribe?“

„I do.“ she said, still looking at Sokka. There was a slight change in his features now. As if he got his confirmation that she truly accepted this.

„Do You, Crown Prince Sokka, son of King Hakoda and Queen Kya, accept these vows and do You take Princess Azula as your wife, become her husband and protect her as long as you breathe?“

„I do.“ he said, with such determination that she shivered.

Zhao loosened the ribbon around their hands and held it out for Azula. She took the ribbon and Sokka turned slightly so that she could reach his right upper arm. This was the Fire Nation part of the ceremony. She binds the ribbon around his arm, painfully noticing the flexing of his muscles. Did he by any chance do that on purpose? She pulled the knot tighter than necessary. He smirked with mischievousness.

Princess Katara arrived with a box next. Sokka took out the betrothal necklace, which by his culture’s traditions, he crafted it himself for her.

He leaned towards her, and very gently slid the necklace around her slender neck. She purposefully didn’t take her hair to the side, so that it wouldn’t get easier for him. His knuckles grazed her skin, and she blushed, hoping he didn’t see it.

“I now declare you husband and wife!” the royal guard said. “Our Tribe has a new royal member: Crown Princess Azula!”

Several soldiers on the shore played the drum with a loud beat, followed by claps. It was official now. She was Crown Princess and his wife.

For the first time since the ceremony started, Sokka looked away from her to talk to her father.

“Fire Lord Ozai, Admiral Zhao, thank you for keeping your word. You needn’t worry. I will take good care of our Crown Princess. Her comfort will be my top priority.” he told them.

Ozai nodded and Azula saw relief in her father’s eyes.

„I expect you to leave soon? The storm won’t make it easy for you if you don’t sail as soon as possible.“ Sokka said.

„You needn’t worry Sokka, we’ll be gone soon.“ her father said.

He stepped towards Azula and gave her a soft hug, which surprised her. „You’ll be fine my daughter. Remember, we’re always there for you. And Ty Lee is accompanying you, so you won’t be alone.

„She won’t be alone, your majesty. I am there, our tribe is there.“ Sokka reassured.

Sokka urged her to walk with him to leave the ship. Azula was still surprised, still touched. She watched her father for a moment. Saw Zhao nod behind him with a smile as a goodbye to her. Her father didn’t smile. He watched them walk away, with an emotion in his eyes, which broke something inside her.

Maybe her father did love her after all…

Her fear of this island, of Sokka seemed to disappear , when her father nodded to her one last time, encouragingly, before she turned around, for Sokka waited until she was ready.

Hand in hand, they entered Kyoshi Island.

Who would have seen this outcome for their love life? They didn't find love in their twenties. And now in their thirties, accepting this match proposed by their families didn't seem wrong.

But would they be able to learn to love each other?

Sokka already felt a spark he couldn't quite place.

"I declare you husband and wife!"

Azula looked unreadable. Although now that he gave it more thought, she looked like she didn't expect much from him or this marriage. From anyone in this world. She acted like that since their engagement. He so wanted to prove her wrong.

Sokka wondered how he got so lucky to marry a woman with such stunning eyes. And face. Her hair too. And her lips were just beautiful.

He leaned in and pressed a tender and promising kiss to her forehead. Which was as beautiful as the rest of her details. His kiss lingered more than he planned.

-------

After the ceremony they were brought to their now shared room. Sokka never teared his eyes off her. He felt that sparkle again and a strong sense of protectiveness over his bride.

"You seem unable to look away from me." Azula said, standing in front of the mirror while taking the ornaments off her hair. "Already regretting marrying me?"

"What... No!" Sokka replied without hesitation. "Quite the other way around actually."

Sokka walked up to her. Azula instinctively turned to face him. He was handsome. Strong and from what everybody else around her said, a good man. She knew him and his friends from seeing them from time to time.

After the war, Azula withdrew herself. She spent much time alone, with books and art. She didn't trust she would get a good man and didn't believe love would find her one day.

As much as she tried to focus on those thoughts again and keep her expectations from low to zero, she couldn't help but feel slightly overwhelmed and excited by the deep gaze of her husband.

Sokka took her hands in his and stroked them with his thumbs.

"I will do anything in my power to make you feel forever safe and make you happy Azula. I promise." he said confidently.

Azula smiled. But it wasn't a happy one. It was one of those smiles that secretly told "Yeah, right".

"I mean it! I could've said no Azula. But I chose to marry you, because I wanted to." Sokka said.

She couldn't bring herself to ask why, so she said: "Sokka, don't be too hopeful, I don't believe in a good marriage with love and understanding and patience. I don't believe you will stand by me no matter what."

Azula pulled away and turned around to walk away from him. But Sokka was faster. He took hold of her arm and turned her around. They were so close. Azula thought their noses were touching. And she was right because he leaned even closer and pressed his forehead to hers. His hold of her arm loosened, and he held her by the waist now. As if scared she would walk away again if he let go.

His gaze was so intense, Azula just gazed back. She felt hot under them and started feeling things she couldn't describe with words.

"I am Sokka. Your husband." He said "Your" so firmly. As if he were angry that she couldn't see it. Couldn't see him. Believe him. "And I am the one who will make you see how much he values you and this marriage. The one who will never let any harm come to you and the one who will always stand by you."

He spoke softly. But the words were so firm on his lips, she felt something on her spine.

Neither of them moved. They stood there silently. With hot gazes.

The moment she sat foot on the ship she wondered if she made a mistake. More so when she arrived at the gates to Ba Sing Se. She knew she needed to escape, but part of her was very aware that she was all alone. Without protecting guards or friends who guided her, even if she did what she wanted in the end. But a princess must do what a princess must do.

When she arrived in Ba Sing Se, she actually wanted to cry out of anger. The weather was different, the air smelled weird, and the clothing was nowhere near the level of quality she was used to. She was here years ago, when she conquered the city. But back then she didn't notice these things, busy with another goal in mind.

Her brother wouldn't find her that easily here. Fire Lord Zuko wouldn't think his sister would land here. Thanks to her lies and pretense and her connections, she made it into the gates. Her true identity is unknown to most of the people here in the middle ring.

She was given a small apartment. She needed to be careful not to spend her money on unnecessary luxuries. Even if they seemed necessary for her. But the money she brought from home was limited. She had to accept a job at a teashop unwillingly. But what choice did she have at the time? This was a start, and she would set a final goal step by step.

After her first day of work, she didn't make it far from the tea shop. Tears started to slip her eyes as she leaned at a nearby wall, hugging herself. She held back for too long. She cried and cried and cried.

"Hey, are you okay?" a concerned male voice reached her ears.

Azula immediately straightened, wiping away her tears with the back of her hands.

"Yes." she answered trying not to sound fragile, which was easier said than done with her puffed eyes. When her vision cleared, she saw the stranger.

"Azula?!"

Out of all the people on this earth, it was him who found her crying.

"Sokka?"

Time seemed to stand still for long minutes. They just kept watching each other. Confused. Surprised. Uncomfortably.

Azula couldn't let her guard down now around this man. She had to react, for Sokka was a friend of her brother. Could it be possible that the reason he was there was to capture her?

"Did you follow me?" Azula asked, taking a threatening step forward.

"No!" Sokka didn't mean to yell, but it came out like that. Yet Azula didn't stop her threatening steps.

Just minutes ago, she was crying bitterly. Now her sorrow seemed to be flown away, replaced by anger. Though, he needed to give her credit. Her eyes were still red from crying, and she was just protecting herself for whatever reason. He needed to convince her that she certainly didn't need to fear him.

"Then why are you here?" Azula was about to use her firebending, but Sokka was faster. He turned her around in a flash and pressed her chest to the wall, trapping her hands behind her back, his grip firm on her wrists. Yet he tried to be gentle, he tried not to hurt her. Experience told him he had to do this, because the woman in front of him wasn't to be taken lightly.

Azula didn't stop moving so he did what he had to do. Sokka pressed his chest to her back. No one talked. Only heavy breaths were heard.

Sokka was a strong man. A proud warrior. Azula struggled against him in the past. Even more than she did against the Avatar.

"Get your hands off me!" Azula said. But her voice came out gasping.

"I will, if you promise me not to attack." Sokka replied. His breath touched her ear.

Azula left out a breathy snicker, "Why would you trust my promise?"

"I would have thought you were a princess who'd keep her promises." Sokka replied.

"I promise." Azula said.

"You have to mean it Azula!" Sokka said.

"What's with you pinning me to walls every time?" she tried to tease.

Sokka turned back in time to the day of black sun. It was good to know she didn't forget about that moment either. The memory was buried inside of him clearly. Especially the moment when she flew over him. He was glad she couldn't see his light blush.

"I wouldn't have to if you didn't give me reasons." he replied, trying not to sound affected.

"Or you look for reasons to press me against walls."

"Hehe, maybe you are looking forward to it every time." Sokka smirked.

"Did Zuko send you to capture me?" Azula asked now, focusing on the present, for she had bigger problems now.

She actually didn't genuinely believe Sokka was here to capture her. But it wouldn't hurt to be sure, just in case.

"For what?" Sokka's confusion grew.

Azula didn't answer.

"I have been working at this teashop for two days. Except for today I needed a day off but came here to fetch my apron. I haven't heard anything from your brother for the last three months." Sokka said earnestly.

Azula believed him. It was true that he had been in the palace three months ago. Sokka let go. She didn't turn around immediately, still processing the latest happenings.

"Azula?" Sokka asked worried. This situation was beyond confusing.

He had questions. But she looked sad. Her eyes swollen from her crying and he wanted to make her feel better.

"Let's go somewhere else and talk. These streets are creepy." he said.

Leaves were falling. Apples were tasting juicer. Spicy scents all around the air. Autumn arrived.

The Fire Nation was the "summer nation". But it still got colder in the winter season, and colorful in autumn. At this time of year the view from the palace was particularly nice.

"I'm telling you Azula, Dragon Town has the best pumpkins!" Sokka said enthusiastically.

"Oh really, and how often did you eat their pumpkins I wonder?" Azula asked skeptically.

Sokka blinked blankly, "Well, never!"

Azula rolled her eyes at that.

"But Mai told that Dragon Town grow the best ones. And my wife deserves the best of everything!" he said smiling.

Azula smiled warmly back at him, a hand on her growing belly. She reached the sixth month of her pregnancy. Their first child. If Sokka was already protective and loving towards Azula, it doubled after finding out about her pregnancy.

Right after she said she wanted pumpkins, Sokka jumped up and informed himself where the best pumpkins were found.

"So does our baby." Sokka leaned forward and caressed Azula's baby bump. Pressing a soft kiss to her cheek while doing so. Azula closed her eyes, enjoying his cuteness.

"Okay, you win Sokka. We are going to Dragon Twon.” she said.

Sokka looked questioningly at her.

"No, I won't have you travel such a long way in this state Azula. I promise I'll be quick. You will have the pumpkin this afternoon."

"I can travel Sokka. And it's not like we're away too long. It's a 40-minute drive from the city." she said.

"But..."

"Besides, I want to see the pumpkin patch. I want to spend the leisure time with you. It's not cold outside." she told him.

Sokka looked at her. Slowly his lips curved upwards, while he watched her small smile, the glowing beautiful eyes he got lost so long ago. He caved in. How would he say no to her.

The carriage ride wasn't bumpy. Which was a relief for both Azula and Sokka. More for him honestly, since he feared it wouldn't be good for Azula and the baby.

Reaching their destination, they fooled around while looking for the best pumpkin. Azula laughed a lot at her handsome husband. It ended with them buying five pumpkins.

The golden sun slowly set when they reached the palace. Sokka insisted to cook for Azula. She decided to make desert. They weren't the best cooks and had a palace cook. But it gave them joy to use the kitchen every now and then.

Pumpkin soup and pastry were on the table.

"You're getting better at this love." Azula said while drinking her soup.

"Well, I’m learning since our marriage." Sokka said proudly, "I’m curious about this pumpkin desert of yours. Never had one actually."

"Oh, I promise you are going to love it." she said.

After finishing their food, they sat comfortably on the couch to eat the desert. The pumpkin was cut in small pieces before cooked with brown sugar. Topped with tahini and walnuts after that.

Sokka intensely focused on the taste of it, making humming noises of satisfaction.

"Azula, how come I never ate this, it's sooooo sooooooo good!" he said while still chewing.

"How about you eat it slowly and enjoy the taste Sokka?"

"No no no, I can't, it's too good!" gobbling down the pumpkins.

"My mom used to make these. I always liked it. But somehow this year, I constantly thought of them. Well, about everything with pumpkins actually." she said.

Sokka smiled and sat next to her. He caressed the baby bump and kissed her head.

"Might be our little one doubled your love for it." he said.

"Might be." Azula said, putting her hands onto his over her belly.

"Are you tired love?" Sokka asked her gently.

"Just a little, it feels good like this right now."

They cuddled all through the evening, making jokes and having deep talks.

"I have a girl name in mind." Azula said suddenly.

"Let me guess: Nayla?" Sokka said.

Azula looked up to his face, "How did you know?"

Sokka looked smirking at her, "You once told me, that when you have a girl, Nayla is a name you liked."

Azula was surprised yet smiled at the memory.

"You really remember?" she asked.

"Of course I do Azula! I remember everything you said to me love." he said pecking her lips.

"And? How do you like the name?"

"What is the meaning?"

"The one who reaches her goals."

"Well, I like both the sound of it and the meaning. Nayla." he said as if trying how it sounds.

"I am fearing of asking but doing it anyway: do you have names in mind. Especially a boy name."

Sokka chuckled at her reaction.

"I don't know honestly. I had already Nayla in mind since the pregnancy. I thought we would find one together in case it's a boy."

"Wait! You already accepted Nayla?"

"Yes I did." he replied.

Azula got tears in her eyes.

"Azula? Hey now, what is it?" Sokka asked worriedly.

"Sometimes,... you just... I ..." she couldn't speak so she just pressed her face into the crook of his neck and held his shirt with her hands.

Sokka hugged her tightly, caressing her hair, "You don't have to cry love." he said into her hair.

"I love you so much, never leave me Sokka. Never ever okay?" Azula said in between tears.

Sokka pulled away, hoping to hold himself together. He brushed away her tears.

"Never. As long as I can breathe, I am always here with you. I love you." he said honestly.

Azula laughed now.

"Come here." Sokka said and pulled her back on his chest.

The trip was much like those they often set out on, and Azula and Zuko fought throughout it as recklessly as they typically did. The nights, of course, were the better moments, as Zuko and Azula fell asleep, allowing Ozai and Ursa to bask in peace and quiet, watching the stars together on deck. It was a placid, easygoing time, and nothing seemed to get in the way of their tranquility…

Ozai reached down, clasping Azula's hand gently. The girl jolted after him, cheeks flushing with excitement as she tried to keep up with the long strides of the two taller men. Once they stood at a fair distance from the others, near the very bridge and pond Azula had fallen in, long ago, Ozai finally decided to speak his mind.

........

"I can…" Azula said, nervously. Piandao crooked an eyebrow.

"Then you would not ridicule your brother, should you best him in combat? You would not be upset, if he ridiculed you for it either?"

"Why can't I do it if he can…?" Azula mumbled. Piandao actually smiled.

"That's what you understood from that?" he asked. "Not quite the answer I was hoping for…"