The setting is 3 years after the 100 year war. The Southern Water Tribe is almost back to its former glory. There is still a bit of tension between the Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation. Some of the fire nation colonies have blended and do not simply want to go back to one nation or another. Aang is trying to broker peace between the nations, stopping all out war and fights for territory, and asking the spirits for guidance. Azula and Sokka are being sent out to deal with bandits amd more in what will become the United Republic of Nations.

"I'm trusting you, Azula," Zuko said, placing his hand on her shoulder and giving her a mildly concerned look, "to succeed and to come back safely."

"I tracked you and the avatar, and defeated you, several times. I think I can handle some unruly thugs and some uprisings, brother." She continued, "I still don't see why you won't let me select my own group."

Zuko facepalmed, nearly leaving a mark his forehead. "That should be pretty apparent. You attempted to murder one of your best friends AND partners, then when your other friend stopped you you had them thrown into one of the worst prisons the fire nation has to offer for months." He just stared at the ground shaking his head. "No one trusts you, Azula."

"I don't need their trust, as long as they fear me they will fall into line. Like always." Azula said, temporarily making one of the pillars rise in a blue spire of fire. Deep down she was already aware of this. Azula is no fool, She would likely never gain the trust of Mai and Ty Lee again short of miraculously saving them in their non perilous highborn lives, the only dangers they were put in she had put them in in some form or another, since they wanted action. She did enjoy making Zuko slap himself however.

Zuko saw the slight smirk on her face and squinted his eyes in annoyance then let out an exasperated sigh. He had fallen for yet another game. "Anyway, your partner for the journey will be here any minute," Zuko withheld a grin, he had his own ways to irk her.

"I don't get why you won't t just tell me who it-" At that moment she heard some stupid laughter in the hallway, soon it appeared at the door.

"Sup Lord Hotman," Sokka said with a ridiculously exaggerated bow.

"MY PARTNER IS THIS BUFFOON!?"

Zuko could no longer hold his laughter. "Yes Azula, this buffoon is your partner in this journey. Need I remind you that he came up with many if not most of the plans that lead to the avatar's escape from your grasp and being a perpetual thorn in the Fire Nation's side?"

"Combat strategies do not mean he is not an idiot in all other areas Zuzu" Azula then focused her gaze on Sokka. He does look like he has toughened up a bit since the war, despite the outward appearance he seems more focused as well.

Sokka resisted the reflex to flinch. Her golden cat eyes were a bit freaky sometimes, yet he noticed she was analyzing him. He maintained her gaze and began to study her, she had the same unsettling aura about her, but it felt as if she was feigning it. She seems to have maintained the same build, she's been keeping up with her training. "I'm not exactly ecstatic to be working with you either princess, but the world is more important than some old grudges and generalizations.".

"Can you all save this for the boat? I have meetings to attend,." said Zuko.

"Yes, my liege."

For some spirit forsaken reason the buffoon did a curtsy, then turned and waved her along. This is going to be a long trip.