View source for 5080/A Deal Set in Stone and Fire

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2017/02/10
|Location=Avatar World <AW>
|Synopsis=Toph and Sokka oversee a business merger outside of Yu Dao on behalf of the Paladins, where things mostly go as planned.
|Cast of Characters=20, 1076
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ever since the war ended some years ago the nations have been focused on rebuilding, but also to look toward the future. Where the four nations, espcially the Fire Nation, worked alone, a wind of change has begun. Word had been that a business man from the Fire Nation had shown interest in mining and refinery on the western coast of the Earth Kingdom, not too far from Yu Dao. Legally though it was a difficult manner. The law was clear on it; only an Earth Kingdom citizen could be permitted to run such a venture.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Recently the Paladins had gotten a request from the Earth Kingdom to oversee this matter, to ensure the law was being followed. And a particular young Paladin had taken interest when her family name had been mentioned. That had been an extra incentive to go, really. If her father was going to enter a business agreement with the Fire Nation, then it was best to oversee the area and the proceedings. It was best to have a pair of seeing eyes with her too, so she had asked Sokka to come with her. Not that it was difficult to ask him to accompany her anywhere, really. Tony had stated before he didn't like the idea of Toph being alone with her father, so now she's got somebody watching her back just in case something were to happen. Which she doubts. There is something else she's far more concerned about however.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"... I told you, no telling him!" she states as she walks on towards the building site by the river. It's just in the beginning of construction, with lots of people about. Unlike the regular Earth Kingdom construction it appears that there are Fire Nation engineers about, using steel for something besides weaponry and armoured vehicles for once.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nodded, giving a small nod as he walked. He listened, and then gave his rebuttal. "Why not? I mean, it's not like we're making out and stuff like horney goat poodles. We're two mature, adult grown ups who... well, okay, we're not mature. And you're not an adult for another month. But we're both grown up. Well, actually, you've kinda more... grown down. Huh, is that why? You think he'll be too upset you're dating someone two, three feet taller than you?" he teased. He was walking full casual today, sword over his shoulders, fire nation garb. <br><br> Why? One, he made fire nation look good. Two, Toph had the earth kingdom look handled. Having a cop from both nations, or at leastl ooking like they did, would hopefully keep people at ease. Besides, he was starting to grow fond of the fire nation. They made all kinds of nice, spicy meats that were just awesome. <br><br> "I just don't get why it upsets you so much? You worried he won't approve? I can already tell you he won't. He probably thinks I'm an idiot," he said with a smirk.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A heavy sigh leaves Toph as she listens to Sokka talk, or rather, babble a bit around the topic, not interrupting him. "I know he won't approve," she admits with a nod. "And well, you know things aren't exactly that well between him and me..." The blind teenager doesn't look happy, though she does reach out to punch Sokka slightly in the arm, a reassurance that she's okay. "We'll overlook this stuff, and we'll... tell him sometime later, okay? It's not like we can keep this hidden for ages, you know?" So no, she's not embarrassed by you, Sokka. Rather, she knows her father well enough to know he's probably not going to like her dating choices no matter what.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As Toph leads them to the tents nearby the building site it's easy enough for Sokka to spot a large, rather rotund man that approaches them. Clearly Fire Nation, judging by the clothes. And he appears to be rather pleased at the sight. "Aaah, you two are the representatives from the Paladins, are you not? A pleasure to have you here! I am Loban, Lao Beifong's business partner in what will be known as the Earthen Fire Refinery," he says in introduction as he looks down at the two teenagers. "Sokka... and Toph Beifong, was it?" He can't help but give Toph a curious look.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The blind earthbender nods. "Yes, that's correct. The Paladins chose to send me as I'm family." Speaking of which, a familiar figure leaves the tent at that moment, and Sokka should recognise Lao immediately as he looks in their direction, offering them both a nod. And even if she hides it well, Toph does stiffen just slightly next to Sokka.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka blinked and then, when he walked forward, his hand brushed against hers a little. Just a reminder. Subtle. He was here. He was there for her. He wouldn't let anything bad happen to him, no matter what. Even if he had to punch out half the people here. <br><br> I mean, sure, she could take everyone here but her dad. But she'd take care of him. He held out his hand to the man. "Hey, nice to meet you. I'm Sokka, alright. We're just here to make sure everything is up to code. You know, no hidden bandits, no secret second mines, no hiding bodies. The good ol' look around. We won't be here long, so don't worry. Or worry if you're doing anything bad," he jokes.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loban looks pleased enough, chuckling. "Ah, everything here is up to code, and we're getting the legal documents prepared now, it only requires official approval from the Paladins to ensure that we're following the law. And then we can get set on adding industry to this part and move on as one of this world's first international enterprises!" He honestly looks pleased and relaxed, but then again it wouldn't be so weird if he's wanted to enter this business agreement for a while. Lao too doesn't appear to be tense, though his attention is of course on Toph.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Father," she offers with a nod towards him, and he returns it. "Toph... I'm glad you could come here." There's nothing in his voice to suggest that he's insincere. "It's been a while... and this is a joyous occasion, too. The Fire Nation and the Earth Kingdom has fought too much the last century." At that comment Loban laughs, then reaches out to pat Lao /hard/ on the back. "Indeed! Now we finally have the opportunity to create some jobs and export in this area. All the metal around here should be useful!"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Toph nods at that, turning her head to Sokka just a bit. "I can't see anything that seems out of place here," she states. "Everybody is working, no noise..." There is an awful lot of iron in this area, so no wonder they wanted to mine here...<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"This way," Lao gestures towards the tent. "We have refreshments and the papers are nearly done. Sokka, I assume you will be the one to do the reading." Considering Toph can't read non-English text with her reading glove.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nodded. "For the msot part, yeah. Toph can read pretty well now, but it still annoys her and she doesn't like having to do it. I tend to be better at the whole law stuff, anyway. Toph's better at the 'kicking everyone's butt into action.'" He started walking with him to the tent. He then glanced back. <br><br> "Toph, how about you have a look around, see if there's anything here out of the ordinary, do some of that fancy earth bending stuff of yours. But keep in contact with radios, okay? Let me know if you see anything causing troubles. or like, if we end up disturbing some ancient demon monster thing or something." It was a joke but like... with their luck. <br><br> "So, how long have you two been in business together?" He was totally not trying to give Toph a few seconds to relax after seeing her daddy. Nope. Totally not.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As Sokka gets to revealing just how her reading progress has been going Toph can't help but sigh, clearly not too fond of the others hearing about it. Loban chuckles a bit in amusement, then nods. "Benders do seem to be a bit restless at times, but they are quite handy. We have a various benders from the three nations ready to work with us once the refinery is done, though that won't be until much later this year." There is a lot of things to be done, and the machinery needed will also take time.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sokka's suggestion seems to catch Toph by surprise, but she does nod in agreement. "I can do that while you read it." That way they will save time, which isn't too bad. It won't take them long to get back to the Ad Coelum, but still... "I don't see anything here besides lots of metal in the ground, otherwise this place seems rather quiet." It's the kind of place Aang would like, she assumes. With the plan laid out, the blind earthbender takes her leave and walks off to inspect the area from top to bottom.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As they are left to go over the business deal Lao sits down at the table, picking up his already poured tea. "Do you want some tea, Sokka?" Loban offers, gesturing towards the tea set with snacks. All while Lao makes a slight face of worry. "Perhaps not while you look over the official papers..." He does know the young man, after all.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nodded and watched her go. Good, this would give her a chance to cool down and get any conflicting emotions out of the way. He was sure she had been prepared but... well, still. Her dad just had a way. And it was best she stay level headed. He sat down and pulled over the papers. "It'll be fine. Now..." <br><br> He started perusing over them and frowned. "Huh. interesting. So the distribution is being... hmmmm..." He tapped on his computer to bring up some earth kingdom laws and stuff, comparing the two. "Interesting." Of course, if lao tried to go after toph, he'd keep asking him questions, clarifying things, ensuring he couldn't go after Toph until she wanted him to. It wasn't long before he nodded, writing a few things on the contract. "Well, a few minor issues, but nothing major."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fortunately for Sokka it appears that Lao might be tempted to go after Toph, but he remains seated at the table as Sokka goes over the contracts and checks up on the local law books. Both he and Loban sip their tea, observing intently and obviously ready to answer any questions that Sokka might have. It's a solid contract, that's for sure. And one that shows that this is really a partnership, with both Loban and Lao owning half each, with just as much obligations into this deal. It's clearly something that the two have been working on for quite a while, with several advisors offering their suggestions and legal advice.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The fact that Sokka seems to content for the most part clearly pleases the two men, and Loban nods. "Well, what do we need to change then? The distribution? Or the trade deals in order to buy resources?" At this point Lao does glance over to where Toph went, though he does offer his own opinion. "I do think we should look over the shift arrangements, as we have to make sure the workers get their fair amount of time off between shifts. The benders can work for longer, but the ones operating the machines have a more physical demanding job."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nodded. "Honestly, yeah. It's not an issue yet, but these are still Earth Kingdom lands. There are bound to be some issues in the long term as i imagine you two expect to make quite profitable incomes off this, yes?" he asked, glancing over. <br><br> "I'd just make sure you have proper legal experts on retainer, because I can almost guarantee you it won't be long before some other fancy rich guy comes along and decides they wanna cut out the fire nation from this deal. And likely you too, Lao." Sokka wasn't really one to cherry pick his words, he was going to be as blunt as needed. <br><br> "But, for now, this meets our expectations and seems to be good, legally. A few minor typos, but nothing major. I'd like to examine the shift arrangements, as well as this new equipment you've mentioned and the safety set ups." He stood up. "If you'd be so kind?" He'd tap his radio. "Looked over the contract, going to examine the shift arrangements, safeties and new machinery. Anything to report?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"We will abide by Earth Kingdom rules," Loban confirms with a firm nod, "and that is why I approached Lao Beifong. It does make sense for me to handle the exports to the Fire Nation, and I refer to his adivsors when it comes to the business contract. It needs to be profitable for both of us, after all."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It appears that Lao wasn't expecting Sokka to refer to him as casually as he does, and an initial look of surprise is seen on his face. Though his expression hardens more at the suggestion that others might try to cut in on this business venture. "That is why we want to get the Paladins involved to ensure that the law is on our side. That would ensure that nothing untoward happens and that we keep control here," Lao explains. So he had a reason to involve the Paladins besides seeing Toph again. He does gesture to one of the servants, and the man brings Sokka some more papers. Schedules and shift papers, detailing how the workers will be paid, the living quarters and working conditions.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sokka's radio comes to life, and Toph's voice can be heard. "Things appear to be good on my end, nothing that strikes me as weird about the working conditions for the engineers here either, it's not going to be a wimpy little treehouse when they're done..." Her voice pauses a bit before she speaks up. "I'm heading back to the tent in just a moment."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nodded, going through them. "All looks good here, too. Follows all the rules and..." He trailed off a bit, then shook his head. "Looks good." Was it his imagination? Was that a Water Tribe name? A few of them? Meh. Probably just someone with a desire to sound cool. Cause water tribers are awesome. He then handed them back. "Okay, let's go see this new machinery of yours." <br><br> He tapped his radio. "Gotcha. Take as long as you need." Casual, but a subtle little nod to let her know she didn't need to rush back if she wasn't in the need for it. "Paperwork is done, we're headed off to see these new machines of theirs. Meet us there if you can, Toph..." He almost called her Tophikins. Almost.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No, Sokka's not mistaken. On the list of workers there appear to be some names from the Southern Water tribe, some of them even familiar to Sokka.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Sure, I'll meet you by the big building," Toph replies, all before she cuts the connection.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Ah, it's good to have the paperwork over with and the inspection not far behind!" Loban says, sounding rather pleased as he rises from his chair. "I will return to talking with the other inspectors, but I will be available if you need me on the other side of the build site." Just in case Sokka has other questions. "Lao, I will leave the rest to you." In response the Beifong patriarch nods. "Very well." His gaze turns to Sokka. "I will be there shortly, I will submit these papers to some couriers so they will reach the officials in Yu Dao." So Sokka is free to walk ahead.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nodded and... "Ah, speaking of. I made copies with my computer, for paladin HQ. They'll need a record for, well, our records. Obviously," he said with a chuckle. "Just standard operating procedure. Now, onto the awesome stuff." <br><br> He followed Lao around, looking around for any sign of them. He wonder why Southern Tribers would be down here. He knew there were a few issues, with expansion going on and all, but he thought fishing was working well. Oh well. <br><br> "We're coming in. Lao will be with me. Loban is heading off to drop the paperwork off. Be there in a minute or so, Toph." He then glanced to Lao. What to say... 'I might be your son in law soon?' Yeah, no. "So, how's the misses?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Very well," Lao nods, all while he signs the papers and lets Sokka copy them once he's done. After that the servant will take the papers and seal them before he excuses himself and leaves the tent.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It appears that the workers in the refinery aren't all here yet, as there are mostly engineers and earthbenders here as they work on getting the area and foundation for the buildings set. It's still several months down the line before any production will actually start here. As they walk Lao is quiet, walking in his own pace as he follows Sokka towards the main building where Toph said she would meet them. He is aware of Sokka looking at him though, and he arches an eyebrow. "My wife is doing well, though she would have liked to been here and seen Toph again. We will simply have to talk with Mister Stark and see if we can visit soon," he states, all before his attention shifts to Toph who rounds the corner and heads towards them. The blind teenager walks towards them, then nods. "Things are up to standard here, from the looks of it," she confirms. "I doubt the Paladins would have any problems with this place." She does appear awkward, uncertain of what more to say to her father, and he too is quiet for a moment. "How is your training in the Paladins going, Toph?" In response the young earthbender shifts her weight to her other foot, resting her hands on her hips. "It goes well... it's a bit strict, but we're learning," she admits, not feeling like going into more details than that at the moment.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nodded and then... of course, Toph is asked how she's doing. So Sokka has to interject. "Bah. She's just being humble. Toph is doing amazing. She hates to admit it, but she's slowly developing a real knack for all this paperwork and stuff. She's really getting the hang of what counts as justifiable force. Heck, just the other day she apprehended a couple of joy riders without wrecking the streets," he said proudly. <br><br> "And so far just about everything looks good to go, Toph. Just wanna check out these new lines they're setting up, look over the blue prints and stuff. You know, make sure everything is up to code. Now, the paladins are probably going to want to send out an inspector to check thingso ut once everything gets going, but if you keep following the rulesl ike you guys have been? i don't foresee any issues."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Sokka answers for her, Toph can't help but look a little bit nervous where she stands. Lao however looks at the boy and misses the expression on his daugher's face, and he arches an eyebrow. "Really... well, as long as you are learning and not getting hurt, then that's preferable." It might be a good idea not to mention what happened to her back a while ago when she heavily poisoned.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With things mostly settled it does sound like they have a course of action ready for now, and both Toph and Lao seems to agree with it. "We don't intend to stray from the agreements that are stipulated in the contract you have read through," he assures Sokka. "And we do expect the Paladins to perform regular inspections, so we have no objections to that." Things... are actually rather civil. Even so, Toph seems eager to get moving. "Let's check out the lines?" she suggests.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka opened his mouth, about to say more, but then paused. "Yeah. She's being careful. Keeping herself out of trouble. Heh. She's better at it than I am, at least." He then looked ahead. "Yeah, let's inspect the lines." He started walking towards them and... "Oh, Lao, you coming to Toph's sweet sixteen party? I hear it's going to be awesome. Wait, are those the lines? THOSE LOOK AWESOME!" And then runs off to examine them. <br><br> Accidentally abandoning Toph at the -worst point-.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Okay, this isn't too bad, they can get through this and...<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh man...!<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The moment Sokka invites her father to her birthday party however, Toph's eyes widen and she looks shocked. Lao merely looks surprised, and he peers down at Sokka. "Sweet Sixteen...?" he asks. Yes, he's aware that his daughter turns sixteen soon, but then again birthday parties in the Earth Kingdom aren't quite as... loud as some parties get. Toph struggles to find words, especially when Sokka takes this time to abandon her as he runs off. "W-wait, Sokka!" she calls, then hurries after the older boy. Damnit, what did he do now?! There's no way she can be alone and explain this to her father. So she runs, keeping up with him. And once she actually catches up, she reaches out for Sokka's arm, grabbing onto his sleeve. "Sokka, why...?" she asks, though she's not exactly angry. She looks more upset and worried, really. "You didn't just invite my /father/ to a beach party, did you?" This is different than Tony and Pepper's wedding last year where people actually wore formal clothes. Because swim wear will be more difficult to explain to her father, won't it?<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka blinked a few times and looked down to her. "Yeah? Of course I did. I mean, he's your dad, this is an important day for you. Heck, here you'd be an adult." He reached out and patted her head. "If anyone should be there, it should be your parents. Both of them." Then he frowned. "Wait, did you not want him to be there? Is there something wrong with him coming to a beach party? I'm sure he's been to the beach sometime, right?" Oh gosh. Nooooo.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Even as Sokka pats her on the head Toph can't help but look worried where she stands. "I... I don't think it's a good idea," she admits. "I mean, /you/ freaked out seeing me in swim wear, didn't you? And it's different when him and mother being there for a formal occasion like the wedding they attended last year. A birthday party is different, there will be more rowdiness, noise and stuff that they don't like, and... no, they haven't been to a beach party before. Nobles don't attend parties unless it's all formal and high strung, remember?" Toph points out, her head hanging. There's also the matter of whether or not Tony would like it. It's different inviting multiversal people, but one of the people that Tony gets along with the least with few adults being there...? That's a different matter.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Toph's hand tightens its grip on Sokka's sleeve a bit.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nodded, then reached out and took her hand in his. He pulled her close, one hand holding her hand to his chest, the other grabbing her waist and pulling her against him. He leaned in close and gave her the most delicate kiss on the lips. <br><br> "It'll be fine, okay? I'll deal with it. I'll talk with Tony, too, if you want. Toph, this is your day. Important for you. The people who are important to you should be there. And I think your dad can keep his act together for one day so he can be there for his little girl. The guy may be a jerk, but even I can tell he's calmed down a lot. And, most importantly, he loves you. And you're more than worth making happy on this occasion. So just trust me, okay?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Even as Sokka reaches out and takes her hand, Toph looks uncertain. And she suddenly raises her head, looking nervous. "Sokka, i--"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Whatever she was going to say however is cut off when he kisses her, and Sokka might notice that for some reason Toph isn't kissing him back. Rather, she looks nervous for some reason. But unable to speak as he is busy talking.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's only when Sokka is done reassuring the blind girl that he might notice somebody standing behind him.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lao. With a look of utter surprise on his face.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Immediately Toph steps forward to get between him and Sokka, still a bit on edge. "Father, it's okay," she says, trying to sound as firm as she can and clearly ready to shield Sokka from whatever reactions this might have. Fortunately it doesn't look like Lao is about to be angry, though he doesn't seem to like it either as he looks down at Sokka. "I can't say I approve of this," he begins, his voice calm.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka blinked a few times, then cringed. "Well... crap. That... wasn't exactly how I expected... universe just loves this, doesn't it?" he muttered. Then blinked, and chuckled, rubbing the back of his head. "Don't suppose you, err, would buy that... yeah." <br><br> "Well, in for the dollar, might as well go in for the pound. Yes we're dating. Yes we love each other. Yes you can throw a fit, but it won't change anything. I still think you should come to your daughters sweet sixteen party, it's an important day for her, and you're important to her, so you should be there. Now, if you wanna take a swing at me, I'll give you one free shot, but that's it," he joked with a grin. <br><br> He then reached out and tapped her shoulder. "And Toph, it's okay. Anything he says isn't going to change my mind. Well, unless he like... draws a knife on me. But then it'd probably just change my mind on where we should spend holidays." Bad. Time. For. Jokes.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's hardly any reason to lie about this, Toph figures. And so she doesn't stop Sokka from talking, even if her cheeks are flaring up into a slight blush. For now it's easier to let Sokka talk since he doesn't seem to be saying anything upsetting. Even if she's not sure why Sokka insists on getting Lao to come to her birthday party.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The invitation to punch him is met by a frown from Lao, who is hardly the type of person to get physical like that. "I'm doing no such thing." Strange, it sounds like he's almost offended by the suggestion. "Nor am I going to attack you." That would be so beneath him. His eyes glance between Toph and Sokka, and he settles on the young man. "I will ask you to show proper decorum if you insist on this. Both of you. And I will have words with mister Stark about this matter."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The blind earthbender relaxes just slightly where she stands, then sighs as she half whispers under her breath. "Not the time to joke..." she suggests, then turns her attention back to Lao. "... if... if you're coming to the birthday party next month, then bring mother too." No, she has no objections to Lao contacting Tony. Perhaps he might even help and put things into perspective. She hopes.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I think we should go for now," she suggests, clearly not comfortable with all this. "If you have any questions, then you can contact the Paladins."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Another heavy sigh leaves Lao, and he nods. Not without giving Sokka a warning look.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nods, glancing back to Toph. "Yeah. I think we've got all we need, leaving might be for the best." He resisted the urge to take her hand and instead started walking. Once they were out of ear shot... <br><br> "Welp. Your dad is going to hire some assassins to have me killed, but it'll be fine. I took down boomy boom boom man, I'm sure I can take down lizard rider girl too," he joked, reaching out and patting her head. Then sighed. "Sorry. I know that's... not how you wanted him to find out. About us. I was just trying to comfort you and... sorry."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She's in a real hurry to get away from here it appears, and Toph doesn't slow down even as they are out of ear shot and heading towards the edge of the building site. "No, I doubt he will do that..." Toph says, her tone a bit shaky still. "Because he knows he's already on thin ice from what happened before, and well... dad's punched him before." It's not like Tony disapproves of them dating, after all. Otherwise he wouldn't have suggested that Toph kiss Sokka in the first place, right?<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Sokka apologises however, Toph turns her head towards him... and then reaches out to hold onto his arm. It's something he seems to like her doing when they're walking in places where she can't see with her feet, and it might help reassure him that she's not upset with /him/. "He would have found out sooner or later," she points out. "And... at least now we don't have to worry about /that/ anymore, I guess... and he did take it better than I thought he would." She looks a bit uncertain though. "... my birthday party is going to be really weird this year, isn't it?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka nodded, then chuckles and pulls her in close, a hand moving over her shoulder. "Yeah. It's going to be your weirdest birthday yet. I'll get you some of our Southern tribe seal wine. It'll grow hair on your chest." He paused. Didn't mention his own chest. "And yeah. It's going to be fine, Toph. Because we have each other no matter what, okay?" <br><br> Gave her a comforting squeeze. "I will do everything I can to make sure you have the best possible time, okay? And... I'm sure your dad is just... confused. Can't say I blame him. I mean, why you're with a loser like me, no one can know," he said with a chuckle.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This time Toph doesn't object to the closeness, and she leans slightly into Sokka as they walk. "Just make sure to ask dad and mom first," she says with a chuckle. "They do let me taste wine at special occasions, though I doubt they would want me to get drunk." Nah, that would be a pretty crappy birthday. As for why Lao didn't like it? "Most noble people in the Earth Kingdom don't get to choose who they date, Sokka. It's kinda decided by the family. Except I'm not exactly part of that anymore, thank spirits..." she mutters. No, getting into an arranged marriage isn't what she wanted. "I think father understands that he can't control me like that anymore, but I do think he's not going to be happy when he talks to dad..."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But that's probably something they don't have to worry about. "I know you're going to help make my birthday special," she says with a grin. "I mean, with the contests and stuff? It's going to be fun!"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:1076|Sokka (1076)}} has posed:'''<br>Sokka blinked and his hand tightened over her. His heart beat faster. "No one should ever have the right to choose who you date or marry, Toph. No matter how good they may think it is for the tribe." Odd way of phrasing it. "But let's be honest. You're Toph. I'm not sure there's any guy out there who could even be partially worthy of you," he joked, grinning. Giving her another little squeeze. <br><br> "And yeah, I already have the first one planned out. We'll make it work out, promise. It'll be awesome. I got a guy who got me some things I can use for it." ... Oh dear. This would be an... experience.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:20|Toph Beifong (20)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Eh, you know me, I'll do whatever I want," Toph jokes with a shrug, a bit more relaxed now that they're out of the building site and heading towards the warp gate. "Not like I was going to let that happen either way, right?" No, that would have been another incident with her running away. "And you know you're worthy because I say so," she adds and punches Sokka in the arm she's holding onto.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Okay, she's feeling better now. No need to regret her life decisions, right? No matter what her father says. They did what they had to do here for the Paladins, so that's good. And now they can do some more planning for her birthday party to ensure that all the guests have a good time.<br> <br>
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