Noren

Ikem was a childhood friend and later boyfriend of Ursa, and for a short time her fiancé.

History
Ikem grew up in the Fire Nation town of Hira'a and was a Ursa's close friend. When they were six years old, Ursa punched him in the stomach and kicked dirt in his face, which led him to fall in love with her.



When the two were older, they began dating and started an acting career together. Ikem was reciting his lines as Dragon Emperor on an empty stage during the day when Ursa surprised him, and announced that she would be playing the role of Dragon Empress in Love Amongst the Dragons, and he stated that he could then finally fulfill his lifelong ambition of kissing Ursa in front of the entire village. Wanting to practice the kissing scene, they each put on their masks and recited their lines. However, when it came to the moment of the kiss, the mask proved to be a hindrance. Although Ursa removed hers, Ikem held her gaze and proposed. Since Ursa was confused at first, wondering if his proposal was part of the script, he removed his mask as well and recalled the childhood memory of the moment he fell in love with her. He repeated his proposal and this time, Ikem was delighted to receive a confirming answer for Ursa. The two shared a passionate kiss. Later in the night, Ursa left for home to tell her mother of Ikem's proposal.



The next day, news of Prince Ozai's engagement to Ursa had reached Ikem, and he blocked the path through which Ursa's carriage was passing. He stood his ground and called out to Fire Lord Azulon, stating that he could not stand by and let his true love be taken away. Guards stepped forth to take care of him, though he held his own against them despite using only wooden theater props as weapons. Ursa stepped out the carriage and told him that there was nothing in his power to undo the decision that had been made. He tried to convince her by saying that they belonged together, though if she could honestly say that Ozai was the person she wanted to marry, he would go home. Ursa did what he asked of her, and Ikem was left devastated by the side of the road as the royal carriage rode away.

After Ursa's departure, Ikem retreated into Hira'a's surrounding forest, mourning the loss of his true love. He built a hut by the river, fashioned a weapon, and began his life as a hermit. During his self-imposed exile, Ikem witnessed a blue wolf spirit drinking from the pond across from where he was sitting.

Personality
Ikem was a somewhat playful man, though he took his love for Ursa very seriously, even going as far as to challenge the prince's guard with fake swords in an attempt to convince Ursa to stay with him.

The Search trilogy

 * The Search Part 1

Trivia

 * Even though she was forbidden, Ursa kept writing letters to Ikem, though none of them were ever delivered to him. In one of these letters, she said, "My dearest Ikem, it's taken me a long time to admit it, but you were right. I belong with you, and nothing is worth this pain. My one consolation is our son Zuko. When I look into his eyes, it's as if I'm looking into yours. My thoughts are with you always. Love, Ursa."