#(Zuko is after all still alive)

[lu-nate]

So…… does anyone else think they might pull a Zuko’s mom with Kanata’s mom

[floatyflowers]

Dark Platonic! Fire Nation Royal Family x Non-bender Reader

Part 2

With Ozai:

At first he didn't accept the fact that you, his youngest child, is a non-bender, and ignored your existence.

That was until he noticed how his older brother, Iroh, spends time with you, Ozai got extremely jealous.

And decided to spend time with you, only to realize that you are his favorite child, and felt like an actual father.

Yes, you can't firebend nor do you even have the ability to protect yourself.

But why would you need to protect yourself when your father is going to be the Phoenix king of the fire nation?

Ozai will burn down the world for you.

"You, my sweet child, will grow up in the presence of a very powerful father"

With Ursa:

When Ursa found out that you couldn't bend, she became overprotective of you to the point of paranoia.

Since childhood, she refused to allow you to play with anyone except Zuko.

One time, one of her handmaidens scolded you harshly for playing outside without your mother's permission which resulted in you bursting into tears.

The next day, that handmaiden was fired and Ursa made sure that she gets no other jobs.

While thinking of escaping, she thought to take you with her.

However, Ozai has forbidden that from happening.

"When you find out the truth, promise to come find me"

With Azulon

While still alive, he made sure you had the best education and guards.

Azulon also made sure to have you believe that the fire nation is without mistakes or faults.

He tried manipulating you into believing that just your loyalty to your people is enough duty.

However, you are kind, too kind.

Yet, he Azulon didn't hate you for it even if he considered a weak trait to have in the royal family.

He also still has the flower crown you made him stored away safely so it doesn't rot.

It is rumored that the last word he muttered was your name.

With Iroh

Uncle Iroh isn't really as possessive as the other characters, but he focuses on advising you from time to time.

You enjoy drinking tea with him and gossiping about everything.

Even though, Ozai has forbidden him from speaking with you, you would sneak behind your father's back to drink tea with him.

After the loss of his son in the war, Lu Ten, Iroh felt depressed.

Yet you managed to comfort him with your cheerfulness and playful attitude.

It reminded him of his son.

"The best quality in a princess is her kindness, something which your sister clearly lacks"

With Zuko

Zuko thought you would be like Azula but you have proven him wrong.

You are kind, gentle, and nurturing just like your and his mother.

That's why Zuko always found himself by your side, being your playmate...being your protecter.

His mother told him that it's his duty to protect you from danger considering that he is your older brother.

Even though Azula has never hurt you, but Zuko was always wary of her, especially after his mother disappeared.

When Ozai challenged him to an Agni Kai, you were the first to cry out and plead with him to let Zuko off, but Ozai felt jealous of your relationship with Zuko and was determined to teach his son a lesson.

However when your brother got banished, Zuko took you with him in secret not wanting you to be left with Azula.

"I know the journey will take long but once I restore my honor we can return home together"

With Azula

Azula was extremely jealous when you were born, thinking that you will take all the attention from her.

But she realized that you deserve all the attention.

You didn't treat her like a monster, you weren't scared of her.

Instead you showed her love and called her 'big sister'

You would cling to her as a toddler, whenever there was lightning, you would secretly sneak to her room and sleep beside her.

"How can you be scared of lightning, we control it, silly"

Mai and Ty Lee saw how Azula softens whenever you are around.

And when Azula discovered that you have left with Zuko, she destroyed everything in her way and burned a few servants.

"She's mine, and only MINE"

[evilkitten3]

azula when she's the favorite and is "safe":

azula when she realizes zuko is no longer there to be the unfavorite:

was fucking around on google images and i ended up stumbling on a reddit post from three yrs ago with a picture of iroh grabbing azula during a fight scene...

this is the only time i can think of when azula seems completely terrified.

he grabs her and she's scared shitless

but he just redirects her lightning and she's just bewildered.

i wonder what she was thinking there

[twinsarekeepers]

READ MY PINNED POST PLS!

The writers really put Zuko and Katara in a position where they were completely isolated from the rest of their loved ones in the finale and only had each other to rely on for support and care in the most precarious time of their entire lives and that’s wild to me.

It’s pretty obvious by the farewells the group share as they’re parting that they’re all aware this could be the last time they see each other. They all know there’s a high chance most or none of them are making it out of this. By having Zuko and Katara go off with each other alone, where the only person they know for sure is alive and well is the other … the writers have just created a Molotov cocktail for shippers.

And it’s not just the writers who put them in this situation, they wrote the characters putting themselves in it. Zuko and Katara didn’t end up facing Azula together by accident or chance, they chose to go together, alone, knowing that neither of them would have anyone else to trust and depend on but the other and being completely fine with that. Being content with the idea that if they were to die, they’d be protecting each other, fighting side by side.

Okay.

Just think about Zuko’s decision to agree to Azula’s Agni Kai because he doesn’t want Katara getting hurt because she could be the last person on the planet that he loves by the end of this and he wants her to be safe. Katara watching Zuko duel Azula and having no idea if her brother and father and friends are still alive, only that this boy fighting his homicidal sister is and that she needs him to be safe. Of course she’s going to run out into the battlefield to protect him. Of course he’s going to take a bolt of lightning to the chest for her. Of course she’s going to do everything and anything in her power (even defy the laws of waterbending healing apparently) to save his life.

The show had them put themselves in a situation where they could literally only give a fuck solely about each other and no one else and then somehow expected everyone to believe those feelings magically vanished after they’d made it through safely. It also really doesn’t help that even when they defeated Azula, they both still had no idea who had won in the Earth Kingdom and were just waiting either for the gaang to send word or for Ozai to and the former meant peace and the latter meant Awful Horrible Things For Them. Like, in those days after the Agni Kai, they were still in a position where they were only aware of the other’s wellbeing and no one else’s.

They’ve now just created lifelong yearning potential for these two characters, who seem to be desperately in love with each other, great job writers!

REMINDER TO READ MY PINNED POST!

[pinkiemachine]

I made something…

Figured that since Ozai looked so young in his portrait, that must mean it was made shortly after his coronation, or thereabouts, so applying that logic here, ZuZu stills looks young and handsome. The dragons, I know, that event was meant to be kept secret, but counter argument, this painting doesn’t necessarily say, “Hey, Dragons are still alive—here’s a map!” It’s just a bit of artsy-fartsy majestic embellishment. Also, I feel like Zuko might want to rebrand the Fire Nation, just a little, you know, after the 100 year war. So instead of just pure fire iconography, he brings things back to their roots, aka, the dragon. More dragon iconography!!! In this portrait, Zuko isn’t the one firebending, it’s the dragons, the first Firebenders. And in the meantime, he’s holding out a White Lotus. Now, I tried to use my Google Fu to find out if there was ever any symbol in Japan or Korea or China that meant “peace,” but my search results came up empty, so I figured that perhaps the lotus could become their version of, say, the olive branch. A discreet and tasteful way to include such a major part of the final battle while having a double meaning. Also, take note of the fact that he’s holding it with BOTH hands. In Japan, when one offers a gift, you always do so with both hands. And while I know it may look a little strange, Zuko towering over his friends—bro—this was always going to be Zuko’s Firelord portrait. He was always going to be the main focus. He just wanted to also include his friends and commemorate the day the war finally ended/his coronation. Anyway, that’s all for now… hope that wasn’t too much… and if anyone has any ideas for how to make it even better, pls let me know.

And to all those who say the element order is backwards…

*ahem*

Japanese and traditional Chinese text layouts are read -right to left-

THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME 👏

[melzula]

Ok hear me out. Reader and Zuko go on a run for supplies .Reader makes a mistakes and almost gets seriously hurt/ near death experience. Zuko gets pissed at reader, maybe yells at her. Reader laughs it off and acts like she doesn’t gaf. Zuko later finds reader all shaken up and crying by herself. Love if you don’t, love if you do!

a/n: ty for requesting and hope you enjoy anon !

summary: zuko apologizes and receives something in return

What was meant to be a simple trip into town for supplies had quickly turned into a disaster, and Zuko believed it was your recklessness to blame.

You’d been too preoccupied in admiring a local merchant’s vast collection of sea shells to notice the Fire Nation soldier creeping up behind you, and if not for Zuko shoving you out of the way to take on the man himself you surely would have been burnt alive. Your failure to stay aware of your surroundings and lackadaisical attitude had almost gotten you killed, and the Prince made sure to point this out to you afterward.

“Are you trying to get yourself killed?!” He scolds you after dragging you out of the marketplace by the arm and back towards camp.

“I was looking at shells, actually, before you so rudely interrupted,” you correct with an impatient roll of your eyes, but the act only seems to annoy him further.

“This isn’t a game, y/n! We didn’t come here to mess around, we came to quickly get more food and go, and we couldn’t even do that because you were too busy looking at stupid shells to notice your surroundings! You could have been hurt or worse!”

“Relax, ‘your highness,’” you dismiss him defensively, harshly yanking your arm away from his grasp. “In case you haven’t noticed, I’m not dead. I’m fine. You need to stop overreacting and leave me alone!”

Zuko watches with a scowl as you stomp away from him and towards your tent, ignoring the quizzical looks your friends send your way as you shut the flaps closed.

“What’s her problem?” Toph asks with a raised brow from her spot beside the campfire.

“What did you do?” Katara snaps at the boy with an accusatory glare.

“I didn’t do anything!” Zuko exclaims defensively. “As a matter of fact, I just saved her life and now she’s mad at me!”

“Saved her life? What happened out there?” Aang questions with a worried frown. “Was anyone hurt?”

“A Fire Nation soldier snuck up on her while she was distracted and was about to strike before I pushed y/n out of the way and fought him myself.”

“So… what you’re saying is you guys didn’t get any food?” Sokka notes dejectedly only to receive a scolding smack upside the head from his sister.

“If you saved her life, then why is she so upset?”

“I may have been a bit harsh with her after,” Zuko admits reluctantly, awkwardly grasping at the back of his neck. “I didn’t mean to snap at her, but I was just frustrated that she wasn’t taking her own safety seriously.”

“Look, that’s just how y/n is sometimes. She’s too trusting of her surroundings sometimes, but you have to gently remind her to be careful,” Sokka explains to his friend. “Maybe if you hadn’t yelled at her she would have taken you seriously.”

“Just give her some time to cool off and apologize later,” Katara advises the fire bender. “She just needs her space.”

Frustrated, Zuko lets out a long sigh before ultimately relenting. Katara is right. He just needs to give you some space to process before bothering you again.

By nightfall the moon has risen in the sky and the rest of your group has called it a day, retreating to their tents to sleep and rest for whatever tomorrow may bring. You still haven’t set foot out of yours since Zuko yelled at you, and the Prince has spent the better half of his day groveling outside waiting for you to emerge. He’s beginning to grow impatient, but he’s also extremely worried. You missed dinner, and no one has been able to get you to come out.

Deciding enough is enough, Zuko takes it upon himself to barge into your tent and check on you. Better you be mad at him for invading your space without permission than for something to be wrong with you without anyone knowing.

When he enters your tent the last thing he expects to find is your figure curled up in your sleeping bag crying. Your body trembles under the blankets and your quiet sniffles are the only sound in the space. If you notice his presence you don’t acknowledge it, and Zuko hesitates before carefully sitting himself beside you.

“Y/n?” He calls out softly, gently pulling the covers back to get a look at your face. Water marks line across your cheeks from tears that had managed to dry off your skin, and it takes you a moment to finally meet his gaze.

“I’m sorry for making you mad,” you whisper meekly, voice cracking with effort after hours of minimal use.

“No, you don’t have to apologize. I should be apologizing for how I acted,” he assures you sincerely, carefully wiping away your remaining tears. “I shouldn’t have snapped at you. I was just worried about your safety- I’m not sure what I would have done if something bad had happened to you.”

“You really mean that?” You sniffle, looking up at him with doubt clear in your eyes.

“Of course I do. I know it probably didn’t seem that way when I was yelling at you, but I’ve come to care a lot for you, and I’d hate to see you get hurt.”

“I didn’t know…” you murmur quietly as you carefully sit up from your sleeping bag to reach eye level with the Prince. “I always figured you just saw me as some annoying girl you had to babysit.”

“Well, maybe at first,” he admits with a sheepish chuckle only to immediately stop when he catches your unamused glare, “but now I look forward to being sent to the market with you. I enjoy your company even if it means having to be more vigilant of our surroundings on your behalf. Can you just promise me that next time you’ll be a little more careful?”

“I promise,” you nod earnestly and, much to Zuko’s surprise, pull him in for a tight hug. He stiffens at first, unsure how to react to the close contact, but eventually he’s able to allow himself a chance to enjoy your warmth and reciprocate your embrace.

Only you could have the grumpy Prince wrapped so tightly around your finger.

| zuko tags: @ilovespideyyy @yiyibetch @eridanuswave @lammello @a-monsters-love @taeeemin @livelaughlovekuni @lovialy

[girlkisser13]

dating azula would include

• it’s canon that azula has no game, so you’re the one who’s making all of the moves on her. she’s so oblivious when it comes to love.

• this girl is ALWAYS blushing around you. even after you guys start dating she still blushes around you.

• she's always trying to impress you with her firebending, constantly making sure you're watching her.

• she will 100% pout if you miss something.

• azula enjoys the finer things in life. being royalty allows her to spoil you with extravagant gifts and grand gestures.

• loyalty is paramount to azula, so she expects complete loyalty from you. betrayal is something she would never forgive.

• azula enjoys engaging in strategic games and intellectual debates with you.

• despite her tough exterior, azula has moments of vulnerability. these are extremely rare, but you would see glimpses of her softer side, especially when she feels safe and trusted.

• azula thrives on challenges and would appreciate if you aren’t afraid to challenge her back.

• she loves you because you challenge her, not because you roll over for her.

• your relationship makes her feel alive.

• azula enjoys excitement and adventure, so dates would often involve thrilling activities, from exploring ancient ruins to sparring matches.

• understanding azula's emotional complexity would be crucial. you’re patient and perceptive, recognizing when she needs space or support.

• if you’re a firebender, azula would take a keen interest in your training, often giving tips and pushing you to improve your skills.

• she isn’t to big on pda because she doesn’t want to appear weak. she loves holding your hand under the table though.

• when the two of you are alone it’s a whole different story.

• she and zuko are the DEFINITION of touch starved.

• at first, she never initiated any type of physical touch. you were always the on who wanted to hold her hand or tried to cuddle with her.

• over time, she began to feel more comfortable with the idea of physical touch and began to crave that intimacy. now she ALWAYS has a hand on you.

• azula values quality time and would appreciate activities that allow her to bond with you, such as sparring, strategizing, or even watching the sunset together.

• as azula works through her past traumas and emotional scars, you would play a significant role in her healing process, offering support, understanding, and unconditional love.

• azula’s loyalty to you is unwavering. she expects the same in return and would go to great lengths to ensure your safety and happiness.

• your relationship with azula would be built on mutual respect and admiration. she values that you’re able to respects her strengths and supports her weaknesses.

• she loves you deeply and intensely, making the relationship thrilling and deeply fulfilling.

• you’re the first person to show her what love truly feels like. you’ve got this girl HOOKED. <33

[ssokkasmoon]

THEY FIND OUT YOU ARE PREGNANT(modern au)~

(All characters are aged up)

Gender reveal (pt2)

After delicious dinner Sokka had helped you clean up the table. after you two finished cleaning ,he pecked your lips before retreating to the bathroom. Flipping on the light, he went about his business, washing his hands after. As the water drained, something pink caught his eye near the trash. Frowning, he leaned over for a closer look. There was a small plastic stick, with a little pink plus sign prominently displayed. His breath caught in his throat. Slowly, he picked up the test, his other hand instinctively running through his hair.

Positive.

He gasps, you were pregnant. You two were going to have a baby. Heart near bursting, Sokka dashed out of the bathroom, following the sound of your voice to the living room. You looked up in surprise from where you folded laundry. Before you could speak, He swept you into his arms and spun you around, tears now freely falling. Between joyous laughs and kisses, he managed to choke out, "We're having a baby!" Softly, Sokka cupped you cheek. "I love you," he breathed. More than he ever thought his heart capable. This moment was nothing short of perfection.

After you tell Zuko that you are pregnant, for a long moment, he goes perfectly still at your quiet confession.Slowly, he reaches out to cradle your cheek in his hand. "A baby, huh..." he finally breathes, voice barely above a rumble.

A flicker of emotion crosses his face then - part disbelief, part dawning joy, part protective instinct awakening in him at the knowledge that he had truly created new life with the woman he loves more than anything.

Without warning, he surges forward to pull you into a deep, kiss, pouring all of his swelling pride, after you two part away he whispers "We're havin' a baby, princess,"he says as he looks into your eyes "I'm gonna take care of both of ya, I swear it. Nobody's ever gonna hurt my family." Pulls you closer once more "i love you" he murmurs before kissing you.

Bolin's eyes widen in surprise as you tell him that you are pregnant. His heart races with a mix of emotions - excitement, joy, and a bit of nervousness. He wraps his arms around you tightly, pulling you even closer. "Princess, that's amazing news!" he exclaims, his voice filled with genuine happiness. "I can't believe we're going to have a baby together. I'm going to be a daddy!" He peppers your face with gentle kisses, unable to contain his overflowing affection. "You're going to be the most incredible mother, and I promise I'll take care of you both.  He holds you even tighter, his excitement radiating through his touch.

After you told Aang that you are pregnant ,For a moment he was too stunned to respond. "Really?" he breathed, finally finding his voice. At your nod, the brightest smile broke across his face, all worry dissappearing.

"My love..." He cupped your cheeks tenderly with affection "We're having a baby?" He grins You mirrored his grin through watery eyes, relief washing over you at his joyful reaction. "We're having a baby," you affirmed with a teary laugh. In that moment, Aang felt his heart expand five times. he pressed his lips passionately to yours. "You've made me the happiest man alive," he breathed out ,Gathering you close, he held on you tight, placing kisses atop your head as you melted into his embrace.

Your little family was growing.

For a moment, the air seemed to leave Mako's lungs at your soft admission. His eyes searched your in stunned silence. Slowly, a smile began to spread across his face, eyes crinkling at the corners. "Really?" he breathed, unable to contain his Joy Though just as quickly, concern emerged. "Are you...happy about it?" You nodded, with a shy grin of your own,"Terrified but happy," you confessed. With a joyful laugh, Mako gathered you in his arms and held you close, "My love, this is incredible news," he said. Pulling back just enough to cup your face between his hands, He pressed a tender kiss to yout lips before releasing a shaky breath. "I'm here for you and our little bean every step of the way".

© 2024 ssokkasmoon

[theladyofmanyfandomsfanfiction]

Imagine Zuko when you’re paralysed with fear at the sight of Azula…

It had been a peaceful morning just like the previous two days - until the ground quaked violently. Eyes flew open at the imminent danger and Aang was quick enough to deflect an incoming fireball as the rest of the group scrambled to their feet.

Zuko’s eyes widened when he realised their attacker. “It’s Azula.”

You had just thrown a bag into Appa’s saddle when you heard him and ice trickled through your body. Stumbling back, you accidentally stepped on Momo’s tail to which he screeched and then nursed in his little paws.

You would have apologised. You would have done anything but you stood frozen with fear clawing at your throat seizing all breath.

There was a series of calls for you but it was fuzzy to your ears - all but one. Golden eyes found themselves in your line of vision until it was all you could see. A warm hand against your waist, another on your cheek giving off a natural heat that thawed you for a few moments to focus.

“Look at me. You need to get on the saddle, okay? I’ll handle this.” Zuko said.

You took in a small breath, apparently you were still alive and breathing. Unable to find the words, you blinked and it was enough for the Prince.

He gently but quickly urged you towards the sky bison where Sokka had a hand extended. When he had yours gripped firmly, Zuko let you go and ran for the ledge to face his sister.

What happened in the moments after were a blur, there was yelling and the smell of fire and earth in the air. Appa was speeding through the valleys in order to escape and you held the side of the saddle to keep from flying off.

Just as he levelled out, you heard a voice in the air. That conceited, cold, relentless one that spent days and nights in your prison chamber. Then you heard her laugh - the very same one that echoed when spikes of lightning shot into your shackled, defenceless body until your screams forced blood.

Scrunching your eyes, you let go of the saddle and covered your ears. You didn’t care if you flew off. You just wanted to be away from her. Curling into yourself, you laid on the leather base and tried to drown out the sound.

There were shouts from somewhere above. A hand gently pressed against your arm as Appa changed flight and dipped low hard. The hot rush of air reminded you too much of the prison cell and memories began to flash. You started to drown in them, missing the additional thud of a body in the saddle.

Appa levelled out once more, still maintaining speed but the loud voices outside had reduced to softer tones - unlike the ones in your head.

Your nails dug into your scalp as your mind drowned you in the very worst trauma. And you begged for it to stop. You’d do anything for it to stop.

Something familiar moved closer, warm hands finding purchase over yours. They were steady and safe, carefully prying the tight hold away. A muffled voice made its way through your head and worked a soothing balm across the chaos.

Finally, you could feel a line between the past and reality. And you fought hard to stay in the land of the latter.

The air around you had cooled. Your cheeks felt wet and your hands were holding onto a soft fabric that smelled of home.

It was enough to finally pull you out of the haze and understand where you were.

Zuko was laying with you. His arms wrapped protectively, body flush against yours. His head nuzzled by your neck while his mouth whispered to you alone.

He was telling you a story about a prince who promised to give his life to protect the love of his life.

“You’re the love of mine.” He said with a gentle squeeze. “You will always be and I will never let you hurt like that again. I promise.”

~ More imagines here ~ (for more ATLA)

A/n: 2.5 hours sleep works wonders sometimes…

[zuko-always-lies]

Azula's opportunities to kill Zuko (that she never took)

Many ATLA fans claim "Azula was always trying to kill Zuko." However, a cursory examination of the series reveals that Azula had many opportunities to easily kill Zuko that she never took.

"The Chase"-During the Azula vs. Aang vs. Zuko battle, Azula disables Zuko and renders him unconscious. However, instead of taking a half second to finish off her helpless opponent or at least make sure he can't get up, Azula ignores him to continue her chase of Aang.

"The Crossroads of Destiny"-Azula captures Zuko. Instead of killing him or torturing him or anything like that, she leaves him unharmed.

"The Crossroads of Destiny" through the Day of Black Sun-Azula probably could have easily have had Zuko covertly killed off, especially before the Fire Teens return to the Fire Nation. She had the whole Dai Li working for her, after all. And who would have cared if the disgraced, banished prince "accidentally" fell overboard and drowned? Instead, Azula makes Zuko a war hero.

Boiling Rock, Part II-Azula could easily have ordered the gondola lines cut so that Zuko, Sokka, Hakoda, Suki, Chit Sang, and the Warden fell to their deaths in the boiling lake. That would have been the easy thing to do. Instead, Azula took the much more risky route of trying to capture the escapees herself. It was the Warden who ordered the lines cut, a decision which nearly killed Azula and Ty Lee.

Sozin's Comet-After Azula's lightning disables Zuko, she could have easily finished Zuko off. Katara was forced into hiding, and it would have taken only a split second for Azula's comet-enhanced firebending to seal the deal, while Azula's dialogue suggests she knew or believed that Zuko was still alive. However, she leaves him alone, and her comments suggest that the idea of getting him medical attention has at least crossed Azula's mind.

If "Azula always wanted to kill Zuko," why did she avoid killing him at so many clear-cut opportunities?

[zukosdualdao]

(forgive the somewhat poor quality screenshots, especially on that third one. wifi is still out at my place post-storm so i took these from youtube and am writing from my phone. alas, alack.)

this is one of my favorite blink-and-you’ll-miss-it facial expression moments in atla. the animators 100% did not have to include this reaction shot of katara, sokka, and suki watching zuko rise back up on one of the war blimps and face off with azula, but i’m really glad they did. i also love the differences in their reactions.

suki’s is the most straightforward to me. she and sokka share similar posture, both of them leaning forward slightly and bracing an arm against appa’s saddle to support themselves. but suki looks almost disdainful, with her eyes narrowed and brow heavily quirked and sort of defiant. i think she’s a lot more focused on the azula of it all, since azula captured her and just last episode she was saying how “this is a rematch [she’s] been waiting for.”

sokka shares suki’s posture but katara’s wide eyes here. his mouth isn’t agape, but it is parted, suggesting in this context some amount of surprise or worry. though they’re all waiting to see what happens, there’s more of an air of… excitement isn’t the right word, because i do think he’s concerned, but anticipation, maybe, of the fight that’s about to come. he fought azula with zuko last ep, after all, and though i do think he’s worried for zuko here, i also get the sense that he has a lot of belief in zuko’s ability to fight her off at this point.

katara’s definitely registering the most shock, with her wide eyes, mouth open in surprise, and raised eyebrows. the most notable thing about this, of course, is that she was only minutes ago deriding zuko for pushing her out of the way of falling rocks, and now her expression actually suggests a lot of concern for him, which is reinforced by her pulling him onto appa’s saddle once he and azula fall. i keep wondering what exactly she’s so shocked about, though. at first i thought it was because they saw him fall and were surprised along with azula to see him alive and still ready to fight—but they were getting everyone onto appa and trying to figure out how to flee, so i’m not sure they would have seen. aang did seem very concerned when zuko told them to go on without him, so it’s possible they weren’t really expecting him to survive in general, even without seeing him fall. (which, fair. facing off against his set-on-murdering him sister alone does not seem conducive to zuko surviving.) but i also wonder if it has something to do with seeing zuko fight azula on their behalf considering the contrast it makes to his siding with azula in tcod. there, he chose azula’s side and katara felt betrayed, which is why she hasn’t been able to forgive him even as he proves he’s on their side. but here, he’s risking his own life to protect them, and while he’s done that before with combustion man, i think this is the first time katara is able to consciously acknowledge to herself that it’s not really about trust anymore. (but later, that only makes her angrier, because she’s still hurt, even though she knows he’s on their side, because she connected with him and wanted to trust him all the way back in tcod.)

[geothewriter]

Vermillion Seas Cardinal Skies: Chapter 31 - The Darkness

The comet arrives. The fate of the world is in their hands. Aang sees the light while Zuko and Katara arrive in the Fire Nation capital.

--

At last. Y’all, you’re in for it.

If I say much more in this A/N, I am liable to give away spoilers, so with that:

Thank you, @achillmango, for your fantastic editing again, as always. You are a flipping mad genius for all you do to help me out on these. 

Prepare yourself. Get ready. And enjoy Chapter 31 - The Darkness

The forest around him is alive with the drone of insects complaining in the midday heat. Birds above sing their songs, flitting from branch to branch. All around, nature is lush and full of life. This place is truly at peace. He’s the only one here aware of the danger that’s about to sweep across the world. In a clearing bathed in sunlight, Aang’s heart deafens his ears as foreign energy fills his veins. He adds to the cacophony of his surroundings with unfulfilling, constant, shallow breaths. He messed up. He did the one thing he told himself he would never do again. The comet is here. He’s too late. He’s run away again. And the world is going to suffer the consequences of his actions again. He’s going to lose everything again, all because of his inability to see things differently. “I’m weak, Momo.” He whispers to his friend, chittering in his lap. “I can’t do anything right. I don’t even know where I am.” It is time, Aang. We must move now. Roku’s voice quietly perturbs the chaos of his worried mind. “I haven’t figured out how to beat him without– Besides that, Roku, I don’t even know where I–” Enough of this nonsense. You are the Avatar. Act like it. Justice must be dealt swiftly and with a steady hand. Where Roku’s voice was kind and persuasive, Kyoshi’s is brash, insensitive, and determined. “I can’t.” Do not make the same mistakes as I, young one. Do not let the mortal world fend for itself. Act with decisive strategy. Kuruk’s voice is stern but pleading. We must all make sacrifices, Aang. We must do what is best for the world. It is our duty as the Avatar to maintain balance, no matter the cost. Yangchen’s words crash into him.  Momo flies into a nearby tree as he brings his knees to his chin and cradles himself. He could cry– Is crying. She should understand him the most, and yet here she is, resonating with Kyoshi’s heartless speech more than the teachings they both grew up with. He wishes he could tune his past lives’ advice out, put it away, and never listen to it again. Removing the block was a mistake. None of it helps. It’s just making everything so much worse. He’s letting his friends down. He’s the worst. He’s–  “Wan!” He screams at the top of his lungs, hoping the sound of his voice will somehow punch through the chaos in his head.  The first Avatar failed him, too. Wan’s promise is still fresh in his mind, even after all these weeks. So much for that. “Where’s the ally you promised to send me?!” He cries out and slams a fist on the ground. “You lied! I should have known better than to hope for a miracle!” 

Continue Reading on AO3.

[ecoterrorist-katara]

hi! curious as to what you think about the comparison of aang giving up cosmic energy for katara and percy rejecting immortality for annabeth? i genuinely do not think they are the same because percabeth knew each other for years and gradually evolved from friends to lovers, in which their feelings were mutual. most importantly, him rejecting immortality did not have any negative bearing on the future of the world. as for aang, he gave up the avatar state, which he needed to save the world/defeat ozai. he risked it because of his obsession with katara, who at the time did not reciprocate his feelings at all.

hi! I agree that Percy rejecting immortality comes across as very romantic because, well, he already saved the world! Plus he was able to leverage his rejection of immortality to help people like him. That said, while I don't find the cosmic energy arc in ATLA romantic, I can't find it in myself to blame Aang in-universe. It's one of those "damn this kid is 12, he's lost everything, and I can't believe he has to make these decisions" moments of the show that made me feel super bad for him, and even if I disagree with his choice I understand why he made it.

However! I do have a HUGE problem with the arc, and it lies entirely with how the writers made Katara a damsel. They never gave Aang the opportunity to see Katara as another hero, like him.

Katara is not a Chosen One like Aang, but she still chose to be a hero. In episode 1, Katara chooses to stand up for Aang against her community. A few episodes later, she gets herself tossed into prison to free Haru and earthbenders. She demonstrates again and again that she's not worried about her own safety, as long as she's doing the right thing and protecting others.

There's a bit of dramatic irony in Crossroads of Destiny where Aang has this vision of Katara struggling in chains and looking every inch the damsel...meanwhile we the audience know that Katara is alive and well and yelling at Zuko. Then Aang goes off to save her, only for her to save him instead. He has that moment of “I’m sorry Katara” where he tries to access the Avatar State, implying that he’s letting her go, as if this is a decision about him — as if the decision to save Katara was about Aang’s attachment to her, rather than their shared values.

Even after the Ba Sing Se scare, it never seemed to occur to Aang to ask Katara what she would have wanted, and I assume this is because it never crossed the writers' minds that Katara is anything but a character development object for Aang when it comes to their romance. Would Katara be willing to sacrifice her own safety so that Aang can defeat Ozai? Uh, yes, least of all because she's scrappy and she would've figured something out to save herself (recall this was neither the first nor the last time Katara ended up in prison — is Katara the only ATLA character who’s thrown in jail every season? I think so lmao). But even if she wants Aang to let the world burn and prioritize her over his duties as the Avatar, the point is that she deserves a say.

Katara will presumably one day need to choose between love and duty. These are supposed to be shared burdens when two heroes love each other. Sokka and Suki, a secondary ship, got a whole arc where Sokka learns he doesn't have to save Suki because she has agency and she also wants to save him! But what did Ka/taang get? Nothing of the kind. It’s not clear if Katara even knows that Aang was about to give up the Avatar State for her, because they never talk about it!

I think other people have talked at length about how in ATLA, Katara is her own character and her own person with her own journey...except when she’s written as Aang’s love interest. The cosmic energy/Avatar State fiasco is another example of that.

[the-badger-mole]

"While I appreciate that you did that for me, I don't appreciate the fact that you nearly died because of it." Possible part 2 to the "Katara kisses Zuko to distract him as she pushes him to safety and sacrifices herself to get captured instead of him" little tumblr fic you wrote? Mayhaps?

Got this request twice, and I like this idea. @lollipopsandlandmines

Part 1

What were they waiting for? Katara wondered this not for the first time. It had been three days since she'd been captured. Three days since she'd seen her brother and friends escape in their stolen Fire Nation air ship. Three days since she'd seen the shattered look on Zuko's face when she pushed him off of the terrace. Three days since she'd surrendered to the Fire Nation soldiers who'd been hunting Zuko. She'd expected to torture to begin immediately. She had expected to be dead by now, or on the way to it.

After she'd been captured, Katara had been taken aboard the airship the soldiers had managed to keep. After she'd been locked in the brig, she had been more or less ignored, to her mild surprise. Maybe, she thought, they were waiting to move her some place more permanent. She'd spend the trip imagining the horrors that were surely in store for her when they got to wherever it was they were going. Boiling Rock, she figured. That was where they had taken her father. Hakoda hadn't told his children what he experienced at the hands of his Fire Nation captors, but there had been enough for Katara to heal for her to form assumptions. The though made her shudder.

Yet, here it was three days later (by her admittedly imprecise reckoning), and she was still unscathed. She hadn't been taken to Boiling Rock. There wasn't enough water around for that to be where she was, but aside from that, she had no way of knowing where she was.

Her cell was as dry as a bone. The only liquid she had access to were the tight rations that came with her two daily meals. Her cell's toilet was no help either. She could feel the heat when she squatted to relieve herself. She figured that wherever the pipe ended up, there was probably a fire burning, evaporating her waste as it came down. How many waterbenders had tried to escape this prison until the guards figured that out, she wondered.

The next full moon wasn't for another two weeks. Katara wasn't sure what her fate would be, but she vowed to be ready, if they made the mistake of leaving her alive that long. That was all she could do. No one had given her any clues as to what the plan for her was, and she was still certain that there would be horrific tortured in store for her before long. For the moment, though, she was being surprisingly well cared for.

On the evening of the third day, Katara was finally clued into why she hadn't been subjected to the torture she had anticipated. Azula was coming. Princess Azula had specifically requested that Katara not be harmed before she arrived. The soldier who had delivered the news had given Katara the most pitying look in spite of himself. A shudder ran down her spine. She'd heard enough stories from Zuko and Suki (though she still wasn't ready to divulge the worst of what she had experienced in her time as Azula's favorite prisoner). Azula was no one to scoff at, and without access to water, Katara was more vulnerable than she'd ever been. She was suddenly glad that she had no idea where Zuko and the others had gone. There was no chance that Azula would get anything from her, even if she did succeed in breaking Katara.

-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-

Sneaking into the Desert Tower prison was much easier than breaking into Boiling Rock. Zuko told Sokka that it was because this prison hadn't been built with firebenders in mind. It was a simple matter to bypass the security of the prison by going in through one of the massive furnaces used to keep the stone prison free from moisture of any kind. Zuko bent a path that was cool enough to walk through, and Sokka stayed on his tail.

"Breaking in is always the easy part, though," Sokka said. Zuko only grunted in reply. He didn't care how difficult it would be, he wasn't leaving that place without Katara.

-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-

Azula had arrived. Katara had been given a grotesque mockery of a preparation ceremony, where she'd been fed, bathed, and dressed in a rough sackcloth shift before being shackled in the room where Azula would soon arrive to begin the torture. Katara was on the verge of dehydration. She felt weak and parched. She longed for the sweat that usually accompanied the sort of anticipatory fear she felt in this moment. Why had she been brought here so early? No one had told her anything outright, but Katara paid attention, and she had heard the snippets of gossip in her prison cell. Azula's retinue hadn't arrived yet. So, why prepare Katara so early?

The door behind her opened a few moments later, and she tensed up, anticipating the sound of Azula's oily slick voice. Instead, she heard the sound of the soldiers bickering amongst each other behind her.

"I had direct orders to-"

"Do you know who we work for? Directly?" Katara had to force herself not to gasp. She knew that voice. She would know it anywhere. She'd argued with Sokka far too many times to mistake him.

"The message from the Crown Princess said very specifically to-"

"She did not mean that the prisoner should be here before her." The sound of this voice sent a pleasant chill through Katara. She knew this voice, too. "Prepared means ready to present when the princess is ready to have her brought in. Princess Azula likes to put on a show for her...guests. She would be furious if she arrived and found the prisoner already here.

"I-I didn't realize-" one of the other guards said.

"That was your mistake," Zuko growled at him. "You're lucky we're here to cover for your incompetence. We'll take it from here. Dismissed." Behind her, Katara could hear her captors murmur hesitantly among themselves.

"You heard him!" Sokka snapped. "Beat it, or we'll tell the princess of your incompetence." That was enough for the three soldiers. Once they were gone, and the door was shut, Sokka rushed over to Katara.

"Are you alright?" he asked frantically, but quietly. Katara nodded.

"I'm fine," she said. "They were given orders not to hurt me until Azula got here."

"That tracks," Zuko said grimly. He approached Katara more slowly, but with purpose. His eyes were on the chains holding Katara to the floor. His nostrils flared and his look darkened, but it was surprisingly the only show of emotion from him. He removed the pin holding Katara in place and helped her to her feet.

"Keep the shackles on until we clear the cells," he said. He glanced at her apologetically. "We have to sell it until they're not watching."

Getting Katara out of the prison was shockingly easy. Katara kept her head cast down, and Zuko and Sokka walked purposefully with their chins high and haughty. Had Azula arrived then, everything would've gone to chaos, but Azula did not arrive. She would not arrive for another hour, eager to make her grand entrance and begin torturing her brother's waterbender for information on his and the Avatar's whereabouts. By that time, Zuko and Sokka would have managed to get by all of the prison's guards and successfully slip Katara out and away to the relative safety of their airship. They would flee through the night, not stopping until the sun began to rise nearly seven hours later.

Miraculously, the only injury Katara suffered during her time as a captive were the abrasions from her shackles. She hardly noticed them in her eagerness to get water inside of her. Sokka and Suki celebrated her freedom with wild cheers and laughter made too loud by the anxiety of the previous week searching for her. Zuko was quiet in his relief. He barely said anything while Sokka had been eager to tell Katara how they'd come up with this daring rescue mission, but he'd stuck by Katara like a shadow. She could barely turn around without bumping into Zuko. They didn't have a chance to talk until Sokka, and then Suki finally drifted off to sleep sometime between midnight and sunrise.

"That was reckless," Katara said, frowning disapprovingly at Zuko. That caught him completely off guard.

"Me?" he sputtered. "I was reckless? Katara, you got yourself captured by my sister's soldiers. Do you know what she would've done....done to you if we hadn't found you?"

"Much less than she would've done to you," Katara retorted. "I did what I did to make sure you were safe. The Fire Nation needs you. The world needs you. As much as it needs Aang. Maybe even more."

"I don't care what the world needs!" Zuko snapped at her. "I'm not some pai sho piece."

"I didn't say you were." Katara sighed and sank to the floor of the airship. She patted the space next to her and and motioned for Zuko to sit with her. He hesitated, but soon joined her.

"I don't want you to think that the only reason I want to make sure you get on the throne is to protect my people," she told him. "I want to make sure you become Fire Lord because you're the only one who has enough love for your people and enough honor to do what's right by the other nations. The world needs you, Zuko. It needs your compassion, and wisdom, and honor. I would gladly do anything in my power to make sure you get there."

Zuko swallowed hard past a solid lump in his throat. For a moment he couldn't breathe. He reached out tentatively for Katara's hand. He squeezed it tight.

"I don't want it," he confessed. "I don't want it without you. Maybe you'll do anything in your power to make sure I make it to the throne, but I'll do anything in mine to make sure you're there, too. By my side, or in the Southern Tribe, or just going wherever you please. I don't care, as long as you're somewhere alive. I-"

The words died on his lips, and Zuko cursed himself for being a coward. But then she reached up for his cheek and made him meet her eye. She kissed him again. Slowly, this time, and lingering. Zuko had enough time to respond this time. He cupped her face, tangling his hands in her hair and did his best to pour out all the words he was still to afraid to say in that kiss. When they finally broke for air, Zuko had the satisfaction of seeing the dazed look in Katara's eyes. She held him tight, as if afraid he would pull away. As if he had any inclination of pulling away.

"Well," she said breathlessly after a moment. "I guess we have some things to talk about."

"I guess we do." Zuko let out a short incredulous laugh. Katara smiled at him, brushed his hair away from his face.

"Zuko, thank you," she whispered. "For saving me."

"Any time."

"I really do appreciate that you came back for me." She sat up, and the dazed, just kissed look faded from her eyes, leaving a much sterner expression in it's place. "But, I don't appreciate the fact that you put yourself in danger to do it."

"What?" Zuko sputtered again.

"Don't do that again," Katara warned him. Zuko glared at her. He started to argue, but she closed the distance again, and Zuko decided kissing was a much better use of their time. They could pick their discussion up again later.

[sweetsugarcakes]

Hi! I liked the last one so much I thought I might just request, like, another one??

An Azula x gn reader again. So, Azula and reader are childhood friends, and reader is the exact opposite of her. They are kind, compassionate and believe in the good of people. And that belief is the only thing that kept reader from deserting Azula even when she turned more cruel over time; they hope that Azula will find her good side some time. Azula is very dependant on reader's friendship as it's one of the only ones she's got, and over time she has developed some more serious feelings, but she doesn't tell reader. However, at one point, probably after a battle, it's enough. Reader can't take Azula's cruelty anymore and, under tears, tell Azula how much they detest her cruelty and want her to change her ways and that they know she has good inside of her, because (drumroll) they have loved her for years but think they will have to leave her once and for all if she can't change. Of course, Azula is devastated. She is happy her feelings are mutual but still, there is drama because of reader's accusations and threat of leaving.

Again, a happy end would be phenomenal.

This is a long ask! I hope you like this one too!

Have a great time :))

hii I’m so glad you enjoyed the other one :)

I love this scenario I’ll totally write it❤️

Azula x gn! reader

How much you saw the good in people, even if they were a bad person. You know there must be a reason why they are the way they are. Ever since you were kids you, Ty lee, Mai Zuko and Azula were all friends. At first you noticed in the small cracks of Azula you saw her a bit mean towards the group. She pushed Ty lee when she did an amazing cartwheel instead of her. She almost set Mai on fire for Zuko to save her. You noticed but brushed them off because she wasn’t so bad. But she’ll get better you hoped.

You also noticed that she never was that mean to you. Sure she’ll give you attitude and make snarky comments at you but you definitely got special treatment among the others. You remember having that conversation with her when you were little.

“[Name], promise you’ll never leave my side? I feel that you’re the only one that understands me.” Azula grinned as she looked at her used to be innocent face.

Your little self smiled widely and nod. “I promise Azula I’ll never leave your side!”

So…you never left her side which meant you saw what she had done. When she tricked her uncle and her brother. Almost burning Ty lee alive and forcing her to join her team. Making Mai abandon her baby brother. Even more things which involved her trying to catch the Avatar. But you stood by it all still thinking “She’s going to be good.”

You even thought that when she burned down innocent peoples villages. You saw how miserable the nations had been because of her doings. Not only the nations but Mai and Ty lee were as well. You can tell by the looks of their eyes, they don’t want to do this. They were so scared to stand up to her. You wanted the Avatar to restore the peace between nations and maybe Azula would be better.

One day, at the boiling rock Mai betrayed Azula by saving Zuko. You watched whole scene unfold with Ty lee. Before the two were about to fight each other, Ty lee chi blocked Azula making her fall. Ty lee looked at you, “Come on [Name].” She stuck her hand out as you hesitated and looked at Azula at the floor . You called the guards over to take both Mai and Ty lee away. The two girl were shocked as you chose Azula over your freedom. You helped up Azula since she was still paralyzed. You looked at as she smiled at you. “I know you’ll pick the right choice” hee eyes were filled with love for you and you had it too. She made the guards take Mai and Ty lee away to be in prison.

You thought about how she was ready to kill Mai and make her two best friends rot in the cell. You and Azula come back from trying to catch Aang as it failed but in the process, Azula had hurt other people, you saw children hurt and crying. You saw their parents crying as well or they were deceased from her ordering the soldiers to get information from them and if they didn’t comply well…

Your head was pounding and your hands were shaking you don’t know what to do. You were holding back from crying. Azula still mad about Mai and Ty lee but having you by her side was everything she needed anyway. You two were back at the palace as you finally spoke up…

“Azula I-i can’t do this…” you muttered out. Azula turned to you.

“What?!” She shouts and confused.

“I can’t do this. I’m can’t be by your side. T-this is too much…” you looked down.

“What are you talking about your staying with me! You promised me you’ll always be by my side [Name]! Why are you doing this?! You’re going to be a traitor just like them huh?” Azula was angry you can tell but then stunned seeing you crying and glaring at her.

“I’m done Azula. I did promise but I saw the good in you. I thought everyday that you’ll change into a good person. But seeing you doing these horrific things… it’s awful but I still stayed because I loved you for years. I-I still love you but I can’t if you’re going to be like this. T-this is just cruel…I’m sorry if you can’t change…I don’t think I wanna be by your side ever again.” You saw her panting hard trying to take all this in. She couldn’t believe you loved her and she never noticed. She gritted her teeth about to attack you but she hesitated. Her love for you was too much to hurt you. She just mumbled “Get out! Get out!” You were stunned as she told you get out. You nod as you left. The woman you loved pushed you away you know she didn’t mean it but you needed to do what you said…you knew it was the right thing to do.

You were nearby where Azula’s coronation was being held you saw how horrible she looked. Her hair cut uneven and her makeup smeared a little. You couldn’t help feel guilty about you making her crazy. You then saw the fight with Zuko and Katara with Azula. You saw Azula getting defeated by Katara as you saw her balling as blue fire came out of her mouth. You couldn’t hold back anymore you ran fast to Azula as Zuko and Katara watched you. You hugged her. “Azula please…” you whispered into her ear as you felt her body all hot as she was surprised you were here.

“[N-name]…Please [Name] don’t leave me! I’ll change! I’ll change for you! I love you too! Please just don’t leave my side! I’m sorry” She said between sobs as she just cried harder and clung on to your clothing tight. She didn’t want you to let go. “I promise Azula I won’t leave you again. I’ll be there to help you.” You whisper as cupped the back of her head to make her let it all out. Azula then spoke into your shoulder. “I’ll be good. I have you. I love you [Name].” She said still sobbing. You pulled away for her a little still close as you cup her cheek. “I knew you would turn to be good. I love you too.”

and they lived happily ever after and Azula got her redemption and didn’t go to an insane asylum bc reader was there for her🤭

I hope you enjoyed this one. sorry making this a bit angsty😭 you also have a great day!! <33

[melzula]

The Nightmare

pairings: Zuko x Princess!reader

notes: hi! it’s been forever since i’ve written for these two so hopefully you guys are still interested. it was briefly mentioned previously that the princess often has nightmares about not being able to save Zuko, so i thought i’d build on that here.

summary: still haunted by the events of Sozin’s Comet, the Princess looks to Zuko to chase away the nightmares

~part of the fire lilies series~

The pain in your hands is unbearable.

It feels as if liquid heat is coursing through your veins, your shoulders trembling with the pitiful sobs that leave you as you push through the pain. Your hands are ruined, but there isn’t time to fix them, not when he needs you.

“Zuko, please,” you beg hoarsely, tears streaming down your face as you desperately try to heal him. The damage to your hands makes it almost impossible to use your bending abilities, and though the little strength you have left allows you to heal him, you begin to realize that it simply isn’t enough. Your scorched hands tremble and ache under the pressure, and the small body of water you use to mend your lover’s injury is working too slowly. He still won’t open his eyes nor will he move, and his breathing grows shallower with every minute. You’re losing him.

“Stay with me! Just a little… a little longer,” you groan, a sharp jolt of pain shooting through your nerves and up your arms. Your skin is an angry red, and it only seems to worsen the longer you work to heal Zuko. You’re getting weaker, and time is beginning to run out.

“Katara!” You scream, knowing that she can’t come to your aid just yet. She’s still holding Azula off so you can heal Zuko without interruption, but you can’t do this on your own. “Katara, help!”

Zuko’s chest rises and falls for the last time, and there’s nothing you can do about it now.

“Zuko, no! Please, no! Zuko!” You wail.

The feeling in your fingers is gone, so you sense no pain when you press your charred hands firmly against his chest in a desperate attempt to bring him back from the dead. Your vision is blurred with tears, but you can still make out the calm features of his paling face. It almost looks as if he’s sleeping, and a part of you hopes that that’s all it is.

“Y/n!” Katara exclaims. You’d been too engrossed in your grief to notice her rushing to your side, to notice her hands gently grasping your shoulders in an attempt to pull you away from him. “Y/n, we have to go! Y/n!”

“Y/n!”

You wake with a gasp, body shooting up right in bed and chest heaving as it tries to catch up with your desperate gulps for air. It takes a moment for you to process that you’re no longer in the courtyard but rather in a quiet bedroom free from Azula’s wrath and the comet. A hand reaches for your shoulder and you flinch without meaning to.

“Princess, are you alright?” Zuko presses gently as he hurriedly lights the bedside lamp to rid the room of darkness.

“I… I think I had a nightmare,” you murmur quietly. You stare at your hands contemplatively, noting the absence of pain and the bandages neatly wrapped around them. You can remember now that you’re safe in Zuko’s bedroom recovering from the events of Sozin’s comet, resting after having to heal your wounds. “I’m sorry for waking you.”

“Don’t worry about that,” he assures you, carefully cupping your check with his hand and shifting your gaze from your bandages to his face. “I just want to make sure you’re okay.”

“I am,” you swallow softly. Staring into his golden irises, you feel a sense of relief wash over you knowing that he’s still there, still alive. Your dream had been so realistic you almost believed it to be true when you awoke. “I just… I dreamt I lost you.”

“Lost me?” He repeats. “You could never lose me.”

“But I did. Azula struck you just as she did during the comet, only this time I hadn’t been able to heal you in time and I-“

“Hey, enough of that,” Zuko chides gently, taking one of your delicate hands and resting it over his beating heart. “You did heal me. I’m still here, and I don’t plan on leaving you any time soon, Princess.”

Sensing the careful thrum of his heart against your palm eases your nerves and you allow yourself to let out a breath you didn’t know you were holding. He was right, it was just a dream, the two of you were still here despite the damage Azula had done, and nothing was going to change that.

“Will you hold me?” You utter softly, prompting Zuko to smile in return.

“Gladly,” he replies before pulling you in and embracing you against his chest.

With the heat of his body encompassing you and the quiet beating of his heart in you ear as a reminder that he’s still with you, you fall back into a peaceful sleep with ease.

And Zuko is more than happy to be there should another nightmare return again.

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