#(what are you doing in the outer reaches of the kingdom?!) (oh my girlfriend wanted to visit her friends so we took a trip!)
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It feels like it was only yesterday I read about Oscar getting a mermaid girlfriend and now there's Ikasumi. I ship it, though! I'm curious what happened to the mermaid girl. Also, I think I'm experiencing what the rest of the guild is feeling when it comes to Oscar's lovelife, like since when was this a thing I want deets 😂
FUN FACT: HE STILL HAS THE MERMAID GF TOO!!!!!!!! this is what i mean when i say oscar has that playboy streak!!!!!!! hes like "Oh we have [problem]? I know someone who can help! ^^" AND ITS ONE OF HIS EX-GIRLFRIENDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
and FOR REAL this is oscars running joke. he always has things going on that for some reason he doesnt tell anyone about and doesnt bring up?? 1) his girlfriend changes often and 2) his other running joke is hes always doing part-time work at some different job every so often. mochi and coco go outfit shopping, trying to pick clothes, mochi like "What do you think of this color on me?" and oscar, somehow working at that clothes shop, out of nowhere is like "Nice it brings out your eyes!"
mochi & lime after some magic commission exhausted in a far off town, go to get dinner and sit down and the server (oscar) is like "Hey guys! I can get you a discount since I work here!" when theyre like "WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU EVEN DOING HERE???" he replies "Oh me? My uncle lives nearby and im visiting him for the weekend so i decided to help out at their diner. Pretty cool, huh?"
they go to some festival happening in town, walking around stalls and theres oscar managing one of those hacked, rip-off game booths like "Hey Mochi! We have this fluffy cat stuffed animal that looks like your style! Maybe you can solicit Lime into winning it for you! (overworld challenge noise)" (which turns into an aggressive "I'm gonna win that fucking cat." vs "I own this damn game and you're gonna empty your pockets before I let you win it.")
anyway, oscar is a psuedo-cryptid in his own right.
#bpp#text#lore#oscar lore time#also a good excuse to like. get him to random places#this also plays into the girlfriend thing#(what are you doing in the outer reaches of the kingdom?!) (oh my girlfriend wanted to visit her friends so we took a trip!)#all his little jobs also means hes loaded#makes sense for the guy that bought a storefront home in the middle of downtown capitol city#his vibes are venti-like where they seem so sweet and nice but theres something obviously off about them#and anytime you question it youre hit with the old reliable (ehe)#actually a very real thing may be that we dont see oscars full love subplot play out in the story#may be just hints that it would go in a certain direction but it is left in the air#oscar hits me as the type thats not obsessed with romance the way the others essentially are#the only normal fucking person in the story#besides the arm
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The Dark Side of the Full Moon (1/9) Were!Rex x Reader
A/N: Aaaaahhhhh! Its finally here! After all the hype and buildup and WORK its finally finished!! I really hope that you guys like it. I will say that the reader does use she/her because this was super self indulgent but I hope you guys like it nonetheless!! I’m also going to say that because this was super self indulgent, the terminology and technology of the time period may not always be 100% accurate but I did my best lol. Also if you want to be tagged in this series, feel free to message me to let me know! Enjoy!!
Tags: @captainrexisboo @writer1
Length: ~2000 words
Warnings: none this time :) but I will warn you now that its gonna get ANGSTY in later chapters.
Also there is one instance of Mando’a in this chapter that is not commonly used so: ner burc’ya = my friend
Next
As the wind of autumn began to cool with each passing day, and the harvest came to an end, everyone in the large town of Coruscant was preparing for the festival that was to come. Although it happened every year at the end of the harvest season, everyone was especially looking forward to this one. The last few months of the war had taken their toll on everyone and the Kingdom of the Republic was at a stalemate. Neither side was gaining any ground and the fatigue from constant conflict was pushing the people to the edge.
The Chancellor had made a decree that the government would help to supply the festival for the kingdom this year to show that it still has faith in the citizens and the war effort. Most common folk bought into his façade of wellbeing, but Marshall Commander Cody and the rest of the army saw right through it. He knew that the Chancellor just wanted to buy himself more time to be in charge, but it was not his place to say anything to the contrary. The Fett clan had been “hired” to do a job, and he was going to do it. Besides, they did not have much of a choice after the Republic had paid the lords of the House of Kamino for the service of their citizens.
Cody was looking forward to the festival. He couldn’t wait to let himself rest. One thing that the Chancellor said that Cody had actually cared about was the fact that the members of the army would be allowed to join in on the festival this year. Cody knew that it was just because two days after it ended, they were all being sent back out to join the rest of his family on the front lines. But it was a break, nonetheless.
He also was excited to be helping his little brother, Rex, with his plan for you.
Rex had been planning this night for months now and Cody was happy to see his brother be in such high spirits considering the current situation with the war.
As Cody walked down the main road of the town, he passed by villagers who were setting up tables and areas for the games that would take place during the festival. He walked past the huge area in the town square where a bonfire would be lit as soon as the sun went down up until it came back up again the next day. Turing his eyes toward the sky, he saw the clouds rolling in from way on the horizon.
“Cody!” He looked down to see you walking toward him wearing your apron with flour covering your face and hair. You had just finished bringing many loafs of bread to the tavern so they could be distributed the next day. “I didn’t expect to see you until tonight. I thought that all of you were still on duty today?”
A smug smile crept its way onto Cody’s face. “No. I thought that I would skip duty today and come steal one of your famous pies. I mean, Rex just goes on and on about how amazing his girlfriend’s pies are, I just couldn’t wait for the festival to try one.” His voice was laced with sarcasm as he leaned toward you sticking his tongue out.
You put your hand to your chest, feigning surprise as you gasped. “Well,” you said breathily, “I guess you wasted yourself a trip then. I’m sorry to tell you that you’ll just have to wait.” You scrunched up your face and began to giggle as you wiped the remainder of the flour on your hands onto your apron.
Cody chuckled. “Damn. I really thought I had you.” He crossed his arms and began to slowly continue walking. “In all seriousness though, I am still technically on duty. Fox is drowning in work from the Chancellor so while the other commanders of the guard help him, I volunteered to take their patrol duty.”
“You should think about getting some rest too you know. Every time I come over to see Rex, I only ever see you working.” You stop and turn to look at him. “You look tired. Have for a few months now.”
Cody slouched a bit and thought of all of the work that he still had to do in preparation for the day after the festival. How he needed to make sure that everything else was done so that he could focus on bigger issues. He reached up and grabbed the back of his neck. “I am. But being a high-ranking officer comes with extra work. Especially when my and Rex’s generals are constantly doing things that have only been a quarter of the way thought out.”
“Oh yeah,” you said, “Rex had told me all about those missions.” You look up at Cody and put your right hand on his cheek. “You should still get some rest though,” you said as you inspected the dark circles under his eyes. “You wouldn’t want General Kenobi to think you don’t enjoy having tea with him anymore because you’re falling asleep.” You smiled at the annoyed look on his face.
“Ha ha. Very funny Y/N,” he said as he pulled his face away and rolled his eyes.
You proudly looked back at him. “I know,” you smiled. “I do have to get going though if I am going to finish all of my baking before the festival starts tomorrow morning.” You turned and began walking back towards your bakery as you waved bye to him. “Make sure you get some rest tonight so that you can enjoy tomorrow,” you said as you smiled at him.
“I’ll be fine Y/N.” He waved as you began turning your head back forward. “Oh, and you might want to bundle up tonight! It looks like there is a snowstorm on its way.”
You looked up at the sky and then back down to meet his eyes. You gave him a warm smile and nodded before continuing on your way.
Cody continued walking his patrol route and smiled to himself. Ha. Rex is lucky to have someone sweet like her. He turned a corner and thought about how he would not have to do anything tomorrow except relax and have fun.
Cody smiled. He really could not wait for the festival to begin.
*******************************************************************************************
Cody and Rex laughed as they watched their little brothers playing in the snow that had blanketed the town the night before. Fives was chasing after Echo after he had just stuffed a snowball down the back of Fives’ shirt. The two of them were standing next to one of the smaller fires that had been lit as they drank the hot apple citer that Generals Kenobi and Plo had made in celebration.
Wolffe had opted to stay in bed and sleep longer into the day so that he would be more rested for the games that would take place once the sun went down. His legion had been the last to arrive out of the three that had been selected for leave and he had been exhausted when he got back just three days prior. The 212th and 501st had been back for a couple of months now due to some trouble that they had faced on their last mission to the outer territories.
You had just walked up to where Rex and Cody stood and could see the happiness and relief on their faces from being able to take time off. The sun had started to go down and it was casting a beautiful pink and orange glow on their faces. The clouds had begun moving out toward mid-day and it looked like there would be a clear sky during the nighttime portion of the festival.
You walked up to Rex’s side and pressed yourself into him, laying your head on his shoulder. He looked at you and placed a soft kiss to the top of your head as you pushed your hands toward the fire to heat them up.
“I’m glad to see you two having a good time.” You smiled and lifted your head to look at Cody. “Was my pie worth waiting one more day for Cody?” You smiled smugly at him as you felt Rex lightly chuckle from watching your teasing.
Cody shot an annoyed look at Rex and then smiled at you. “I would say so ner burc’ya. Rex really wasn’t exaggerating when he said that you made the best.”
Rex beamed proudly and then gave a curt nod to Cody, a serious look briefly washing over his face. He then turned to face you as his face softened once again. “Would you care to take a walk with me cyar’ika?” He held his arm out for you to take and looked at you lovingly.
You took his arm and gave him a mischievous and adoring smile. “Why of course my Captain. How could I ever say no to you when you look at me like that?” The two of you began walking toward the other end of town where your bakery is. It would be quieter there and Rex wanted to make sure that everything was perfect.
Cody smiled as he watched the two of you huddle together as you walked, glad that his brother had found someone so loving. He continued to watch his little brothers play in the snow while he drank his cider. He sat there for what felt like forever, happy that his brothers got a chance to act like kids for once.
As the sun finished setting, Cody looked up at the sky. He saw the clouds parting and could see the first few stars start to already peak out through the sky.
“Ah! Enjoying your night off Commander?” Cody looked down to address the booming voice.
“Admiral Yularen sir.” Cody gave him a nod. “I am. It is nice to have a break from everything.”
The Admiral nodded in agreement. “Indeed.” He looked up toward the sky just like Cody was when he approached him. “It sure will be nice once the clouds finally dissipate all of the way. It shouldn’t be long now until we are able to see the full moon.”
Cody whipped his head to face the Admiral, dread quickly creeping onto his face. “Excuse me sir?” He felt himself start to panic as the Admiral brought his face to look back at Cody.
“The full moon Commander. It will give the festival a nice atmosphere don’t you think?”
Cody swallowed nervously. “But sir, the full moon isn’t until tomorrow.” Cody could hear the fear rising in his voice as he silently begged for the Admiral to be wrong.
Admiral Yularen looked at him confused. “I’m afraid that you are a day behind Commander.” He shrugged. “I can’t say that I blame you though. Never-ending battles tend to make one lose track of time.”
Cody felt like everything around him had just shattered. He looked up to the sky and saw that the sun had finally sunken below the horizon and that the clouds had finally parted to begin to reveal the slivery moon in the sky. “Sir,” he said while trying to keep his voice firm, “will you please excuse me?”
“Of course, Commander.”
Before the Admiral could finish his sentence, Cody had turned around and was sprinting in the direction of your bakery. As he ran, he heard the sound of his footsteps echoing off of the cobblestone streets and the houses that lined it. His heart was pounding in his ears and his mouth had gone completely dry.
“No no no no no. This can’t be happening. It was tomorrow.”
He looked up at the sky and saw that the clouds had completely uncovered the bright moon. His breathing was ragged, and his muscles ached from how hard he was trying to get himself to move faster. Your bakery was completely on the other side of the huge town from the festival and having to run on the icy road was slowing him down.
“Please,” he said as he breathed heavily. “Please let them be alright.”
The Commanders desperate pleas and pounding footsteps echoed through the freezing night air as he ran down the dark road, frantically hoping that he would reach you before it was too late.
#were!rex x reader#captain rex x female!reader#captain rex x reader#were!rex#captain rex#the dark side of the full moon#my writing#thank you guys so much for you patience#i hope you like it
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And Maybe We’re Like Fire and Ice
Title: And Maybe We’re Like Fire and Ice
Pairing: Zutara, very slight Sukka
Rating: M (there is smut, you have been warned)
Summary: It's an easy kind of love, the way Zuko loves her, and the way she loves him. It's simple in the way a turtleduck needs a pond to swim, the way a dragon needs fire to breathe. How the airbenders rely on the wind to carry them to the highest turrets on the temples, how the blood in the human body needs the heart to live. It's simple in the way fire ignites the world, and water soothes the burn. Like yin and yang, push and pull, hot and cold, ice and fire.
Notes: Hi guys, I posted a link to this fic the other day but I realized that you all probably prefer reading this on tumblr (that’s why you’re here). I’m reposting the fic here so you guys can read it in it’s entirety without having to leave the site.
Update: I just realized that this fic kinda technically fits zutara month, day 29: home, so I’m gonna tag it now. Haha, that’s me, always late to the game
Here’s the link to AO3 though, if you’d like to read it there: https://archiveofourown.org/works/24365008
Katara is twenty three years old when she decides rice wine is her favorite. It's been a long three days at the annual trade summit in the Fire Nation, and Katara is spent. She hates musty politicians and stuck up noblemen, and if it weren't for the fact that she had Toph, Aang and Sokka by her side, equally suffering, she'd probably drench the throne room in a tsunami of her own sweat.
(Zuko would probably murder her, but then feel bad about it and probably cry himself to death and then go searching through the spirit world to redeem himself to her. The thought of spirit Zuko chasing her after death is enough to amuse her and get her through the remaining days, although she wants to tell ambassador Shen of Omashu to suck it.)
She, Zuko, Aang and Toph are currently in Zuko's study, splitting a case of rice wine. Katara and Zuko are on their second shared bottle, Aang has had two cups and declares he's seeing stars, and Toph's probably had at least four bottles herself, nursing what looks like a fifth. Sokka has long since departed, no doubt chasing Suki's tail, and Zuko sputters and spits out his wine when Toph eloquently states he should wash the bed sheets, of every room in the palace.
"Toph!" Zuko splutters, looking thoroughly scandalized. Toph doesn't even look abashed, and downs another mouthful of wine straight from the bottle. She cackles and elbows Aang, who goes flying into the nearest ornamental case with an audible crack.
"Oops," she says, and raises the bottle.
Zuko's eye twitches, and that's when Katara steps in, to save Toph's ass and probably Zuko's sanity. "Alright, enough. I think it's time we called it a night. I should probably get Aang to his room."
Aang is snoring.
Zuko turns his gaze on her, and she can't tell if the plea in his eyes is begging her to take Toph and Aang away, or for her to stay.
Toph makes the decision for her, clambering to her feet and dropping her bottle, now empty. "Nah, Sugar Queen," she says making her way over to Aang. "I got Twinkletoes over here. You hang out with Sparky before he dies from lack of attention."
Zuko whines, but Toph ignores him and reaches down to pick up a very unconscious avatar, slinging him over her shoulder with ease. The image before Katara, of a slight noblewoman hardly taller than her shoulder, with dirt caked under her fingernails and her hair in a messy bun, holding up a tall, lanky bald boy with nothing but her single hand, would make anyone break out into a fit of laughter. But Katara knows all too well the strength in Toph's pinky finger, and doesn't say a word.
She and Zuko bid Toph goodnight, and with a grumble about Aang's tolerance (or lack thereof), the greatest earthbender in the world takes her leave. Zuko is quiet for a moment, but then looks at her and picks up the half empty bottle of wine before him. "Wanna go somewhere more private?" He asks.
Katara snorts, but takes the hand he offers her. "You just want to go back to your room to make sure Sokka hasn't gotten to it."
Zuko has the decency to look affronted, before pulling her out of his study and down the hall to the royal apartments. "I'm trying hard to not think about that, thank you very much." They stop before the door to his room, disregarding the royal guards standing before it. He turns and looks at her. "He wouldn't, would he?"
Katara snorts, and pushes the door open, shoving her way past Zuko into his room. "The last thing I want to think about is my brother's love life, thank you very much, but no. Suki would never let him."
He laughs and follows her into his room, closing the door behind them. With a single snap, he lights the fire in the fireplace, illuminating the room in a soft glow.
Katara goes and sits by the fire, closing her eyes and savoring the warmth it gives off. She hears Zuko rummaging around. She opens one eye and finds him disrobing his outer layers, leaving him in a simple red tunic, much like the one he wore when they were still Team Avatar, young and foolish, just a bunch of kids trying to save the world.
He comes to sit next to her. “I can’t remember the last time I was here,” she muses, taking the bottle and sipping. “What was it, like three years ago?”
“Five,” Zuko says, taking the bottle from her. “It was five. We were sitting right here when you came up with the idea to travel throughout the kingdoms, creating hospitals for the impoverished and the wounded from the battlefronts.”
Oh.
Katara is quiet for a moment, and she takes this small second of silence to study Zuko. He’s always been a contrast of emotions, and right now he seems sad and happy mixed together all at once.
Five years, she thinks. She remembers now, sitting here with Zuko, brainstorming ideas to help out those who needed her. Traveling with Aang had been great until it hadn’t been- until she’d been reduced to nothing but the Avatar’s girlfriend. She’d needed something for herself, something that would be hers and hers alone, where she could be just Katara again, master waterbender.
Zuko had been the one to ignite the idea. Stories of impoverished villages scattered throughout the Fire Nation and the Earth Kingdom. I don’t know how to help them, Katara, he had said to her. So many villages suffer from hunger and sickness, so many people with too many scars and not enough doctors to help them.
Hospitals. That’s what the world needed. And Katara could procure them.
And so she had. She had traveled from kingdom to kingdom, raising hospitals everywhere she went. She never spent too much time in one place, often spending just enough time to train doctors and healers what she knew, aiding the most severe cases with her waterbending, before moving on to the next town that needed her help.
It felt good, helping people. Like she was always meant for it. The girl with blood on her hands and a healer’s touch. A warrior and a healer.
I will never, ever turn my back on people who need me.
But maybe, she thinks, in the process of finding myself, I may have lost a few people along the way.
Five years is a long time to miss someone.
“How long do you think you’ll stay this time?” Zuko asks, breaking the silence. He’s turned towards her now, leaning in, and she can see the little flecks of amber in his eyes, glinting in the fire light.
“I’m not sure,” she says, suddenly aware of the temperature in the room, the temperature settling in the core of her body, making her breath come quick and fast. “I’d like to stay longer, this time. My hospitals are all running smoothly, and now that trade with the Earth Kingdom has been renewed, we won’t be seeing a shortage of supplies any time soon.”
Zuko’s eyes darken, and he leans in further, their faces separated by only their breath and the whisper of smoke from the fire. “Then stay,” he whispers. His eyes burn, and Katara recognizes that look all too well.
Five years is a long time to love someone.
Their lips crash together, and Katara drops the bottle of wine, opting instead to wrap her arms around his neck. Zuko’s arms cage her in and pull her flush against her body, where she can feel the wild rhythm of his heart pounding in his chest, matching her own. She gasps into his mouth, their breath mingling, and Zuko growls her name.
Zuko’s warmth has Katara overwhelmed with heat and weak in the knees. As if sensing her, Zuko stands, pulling her up and stumbling backwards. Her knees hit the mattress and he pushes, sending back onto the mattress. She whines at the separation, but he’s back on her in an instant, a fiery passion as he pins her to the bed. She tastes the desperation and need on his tongue, and arches against him, feeling the hard length of him pressed against her belly.
Zuko pulls away, panting. There’s a fire burning in his eyes, and Katara runs her hands through his thick black locks, feeling him leaning into her touch. He leans in and Katara arches her neck, letting his tongue trace rivers down the length of her throat. She’s overcome by her need for this boy, and she scrabbles for his tunic, yanking it open and off his broad shoulders.
He grunts and throws it off, baring his torso to her. Reverently, like a painter tracing their way over a canvas, she runs her fingers down his chest, stopping at the starburst carved into his sternum. The boy from her past is gone, replaced with a young man- evident in his marbled muscles, the sharp angle of his hips, the trail of hair stopping at his waistband-
He groans as she palms him through his trousers. “Katara,” he grunts, taking her hand. “I don’t want to rush you-”
She kisses him again, and he relents. She touches him through the fabric, listening to the hisses and groans he gives off when she does something he likes. It’s thrilling- to hold a man in the palm of your hands and reduce him to a quivering mess. She continues to touch him, until he finally grabs her hand and pulls her away from him. She frowns, but he smiles and kisses her, before pulling away with a smirk on his face.
“My turn,” he says, and Katara shudders from the burning desire in his eyes. He makes short work of her tunic and leggings, leaving her in just her wrappings. His eyes run over her figure, hands dancing over her breasts, her waist, her thighs. “I don’t want to forget this.”
You look so good in my bed sheets.
Katara moans when he dips his head, placing light kisses on her breasts over her wraps. His hands come up, molding and massaging until she’s a panting mess, breasts peaked under her wrapping. He smiles and makes quick work of the fabric, deft fingers unwinding and baring her to his mercy. He stares for a moment and Katara holds her breath, heart pounding, before he dips his head and takes her nipple into her mouth.
“Oh,” she gasps, arching into his mouth. His other hand comes up and cups her other breast, thumbing her peak while his tongue works, and she’s a writhing, moaning mess. Katara feels her toes curl, and he abandons her breasts, kissing down her stomach. She raises her head, panting, as he makes quick work of her lower wrapping. She squirms under him, but he raises an arm and pins her down. He gingerly maneuvers his body in between her thighs, and Katara feels warmth pool in her core as he studies her.
A long moan is drawn from her as he runs a finger along her slit, gathering the wetness that has pooled there. He parts her folds with his hand, and Katara holds her breath-
He puts his mouth on her, and Katara’s world bursts into color. She’s submerged in a world of pleasure as he works his mouth on her, sending tingles of pleasure radiating out through her body. She moans, and he slides a finger into her wet heat, sending another wave of pleasure through her. The feel of him inside her and his tongue on her has her seeing stars, and it only takes a few moments before she cries out, arching against him as she comes. His name falls from her lips once, twice, thrice, before she falls back against the mattress, chest heaving and seeing stars.
Zuko crawls back up her body, kissing a lazy path across her skin. Katara twitches as his hands come up to cup her breasts again, and he finds her lips, kissing her with the same passion as before. She can taste herself on his lips and she gasps against him.
It only takes a few minutes before she’s arching against him again, using her feet and hands to loosen his trousers. He grumbles and bats the offending item away before falling back between her splayed legs, taking her hand in his.
“Are you sure?” he asks, eyes burning into hers as he takes her hand to his mouth, placing light open mouthed kisses to her fingers. She’s overwhelmed by her want for this boy- this young man who always asks, who always puts her first.
“Yes,” she gasps, reaching down and taking him in her hand. He groans, eyes squeezing shut while she strokes him. She leans up, kissing him and pulling him down to her as she lines him up. “Please.”
He mouths along her jaw and throat and pushes, and Katara’s breath hitches. It doesn’t hurt- just a tight, slick slide and a whimper, and he’s home. His head falls to her shoulder, and he whispers a mantra of Katara, Katara, Katara into her shoulder.
They fall into a steady rhythm. The stretch of him inside her is delicious, the press of his chest against her breasts, the way he laces his fingers through hers as he thrusts. She finds herself arching against his every thrust, pulling him deeper into her until she’s gasping his name and seeing stars. Sweat drips off of him, making him gleam in the firelight, and he moans into her shoulder. She pulls him back to her, his lips rough against hers as he desperately rolls his hips against her. Their breaths mingle, and Katara feels like this is an eclipse- like she is the moon and he is the sun, and in the moment they meet, it’s electric.
Zuko speeds up, and Katara moans into his mouth. Although she knows she won’t get there a second time, he’s still sending sparks of pleasure flying through her and igniting her bones. But she wants him to get there too, and so she wraps her legs around his hips and clenches, arching her body so that she is flush against him and her breasts rub against his skin. That seems to be it for Zuko, and his thrusts become erratic, pulling her hard against him two more times before he tenses, groaning into her ear. She feels the warm rush of him through her and pulls him tight.
They lay there panting, and Zuko peppers her shoulder with kisses while they come down from the high. Katara gingerly unwraps her legs from him and he slowly pulls out, hissing from the oversensitivity. Katara kisses him, then quickly removes the evidence from their bodies with a flick of her hand. Zuko chuckles, and cradles her to his chest.
They don’t speak for the longest time. She dozes off after a few minutes, to the press of Zuko’s lips on her temple and a rasp of I love you whispered in her hair. ________________________________________________________________
“And maybe we’re like fire and ice,” Zuko murmurs into her shoulder, lips pressing into her warm skin. Katara lolls her head back against him, letting him trace a map from her throat to collarbone, pressing featherlight kisses across her skin. She is rejuvenated from her impromptu nap and coils against him like a firelily panther.
“What do you mean?” she asks, stretching her body out next to his. It’s warm, tangled up in him under the sheets, but Katara has no intention to move from her spot. She refuses to relinquish the heat of him, the way her legs slot between his, how his angular hips press into hers, the feel of his rough, scarred skin sliding against her body. She can imagine how they look- light and dark molding together like a painting. Like the way the sun bleeds into the ocean as it sets.
Zuko pauses. “Well,” he begins, raising his arm and beginning to trace his finger over her back, tracing imaginary patterns into her skin. “Uncle always stressed about balance and harmony in the world. Light and dark, good and evil- he’s been to the Spirit World before, you know.”
“I did not.”
“It’s not the point. Anyway,” he continues. “Maybe that’s what we are- two people in perfect harmony with each other. If air and earth are complete opposites, that means fire and water are too. You and I, we make up two halves of the coin.”
“Balance,” Katara whispers, and Zuko lowers a kiss to the back of her neck.
“Yeah,” he says. His fingers continue to draw on her back, and Katara frowns when she realizes that he’s drawing the symbol of the Fire Nation across her skin. “Uncle told me that fire is the element of power. The people of the Fire Nation have desire and will, and the energy and drive to achieve what they want. We are proud and passionate.” He’s now drawing the Water Tribe symbol on her skin. “But water is the element of change. The people of the Water Tribes are capable of adapting to many things. They have a sense of community and love that holds them together through anything. Your people are compassionate and loyal.”
She rolls over to face him, and his arm drops heavily around her waist. She savors the weight of him against her, and places her hand over his scar. He sucks in a breath and closes his eyes, pressing against her palm. He is warm under her hand, and she runs her fingers slowly over the ridges of tough skin. His eyes open again, and he turns his head to press a kiss against her palm.
“What are you saying, Zuko?” she breathes.
He stares at her for a moment, and she memorizes the twin suns of his eyes, the wrinkles around them from when he smiles. There’s affection in his molten gaze, and he comes closer, rolling them over so that he’s propped above her. With one hand, he cups her cheek, and she leans into him, letting his rough, calloused fingers weave poems into her skin.
“I’m saying, I want you here, in the Fire Nation, with me,” Zuko says, and her heart sings with joy. “I know you love your work around the nations, and I know how much your hospitals need you. But I need you too, Katara. Together, you and I could make a difference here. I need you to help me change the world, to tell me when I'm wrong and soothe me when I'm angry. I want to be your drive to do good and change this country, to fuel your passion to heal. I want you, and you need a place to call home. I want yours to be here, with me.”
She stares at him. For so long, she’s been wandering the world untethered to any one person or place. Zuko’s right, she no longer has a home to call her own. The Southern Water Tribe is like a distant dream to her, and while she does visit occasionally, she can’t imagine calling the vast desert of snow and ice her home. Not anymore.
When she thinks about it, she’s not sure if she can call any physical place home at all. In fact, the only thing that stands out in her mind is Sokka, and Toph, and Aang. And Zuko. Her home is with the people she loves, the people she calls family. And when she thinks about it even more, the image of home behind her closed eyelids is the exact same image before her in this moment: Zuko, with sleep tousled hair and lips kissed by the moon, of warm silk sheets against her thighs and his fingers laced with hers.
“You really want me here?” she whispers. His eyes soften, and something within Katara’s soul lifts.
He leans down and kisses her, and Katara winds her arms around his neck, her legs pulling his hips down so that they are pressed together. He’s murmuring against her lips as he presses further into her, winding himself around her until she’s not sure where she begins and where he ends. The heat between them builds, and suddenly she wants nothing more but to have him again. The very thought of it makes the warmth bloom between her legs once more.
She spreads her legs and arches against him. He pulls away and looks at her, his mouth swollen and his eyes dark with desire. “Are you sure?” he asks, and she nods, arching against him again. He hisses and grinds himself against her, hard and thick against her thigh.
He pushes into her slowly and growls into her throat. The weight of him feels good against her, and she rolls her hips to the rhythm of his, pressing a constellation of kisses against his collarbone, her fingers coiling in the small of his back. He groans and holds onto her hips as they move, and moves to recapture her lips. Katara loves this- she loves him, and all that he symbolizes.
Maybe he's right- maybe he is her other half. Maybe he does ground her when her feet get too high off the ground, maybe he does ignite within her a passion to engulf the world in fire and water. Maybe she does allow him to soar, to make him feel loved when those around him would only see him burned.
Yin and Yang.
She meets his gaze and pulls him down to meet her. “Zuko,” she breaths, arching into him. “I love you.”
His eyes darken, and he leans down to capture her lips once more. Not much is spoken after that, and Zuko dims the firelight with a flick of his hand, so that only the moon is witness to what comes after.
________________________________________________________________
It’s still dark out, although Katara can tell that dawn is approaching, and Agni will once again rise to chase Tui out of the sky once more. Despite the lack of sleep, Katara feels strangely rested, but finding love after years of searching for it does seem to rejuvenate the spirit. Katara rolls over and looks at Zuko, meeting his gentle gaze, and leans in for a chaste kiss. He runs a hand through her hair, cupping her cheek, and whispers I love you against her lips. She smiles, and he pulls away, looking at her so fondly it makes her chest ache.
He gets up, and Katara pushes herself up to her elbows to watch him. He's beautiful, marble skin laid over a hard body. Sweat lies in a silver sheen over his skin, and the moonlight bathes him in a silver glow. With a flick of his fingers the candles in the room a light, and his skin turns golden. He shrugs a scarlet robe haphazardly over his shoulders, tying the knot lazily around his waist. He walks over to the large golden armour in the corner of the room, rummaging around and muttering to himself, before he straightens and comes back to her.
She sits up, holding the blankets around her chest as he settles next to her. With a smile, he takes her hand in one of his and covers it with the other. She feels something sharp and heavy in her hand, and looks down. His hand still covers hers, scarred and calloused.
"I don't expect your answer any time soon," he begins slowly, and she can hear the tremor in his voice. "Think of this more as a promise for the future." Then he pulls his hand away, and Katara's breath catches in her throat.
The headpiece is small enough to fit in her palm, and glows golden in the candlelight. The crescent moon of her people, the royal headpiece of the Fire Nation, rests in her palm. She raises her eyes, speechless, and meets Zuko's sheepish gaze. "A moon?" Is what finally falls from her lips.
Zuko chuckles and runs a hand through his hair. " Yes, I had it made for you. The blacksmith was a bit shocked at first, but I wanted it to be something special." His eyes soften, and he takes her free hand in his, fingers tracing the veins racing across her skin. "You're not Fire Nation, Katara, and you never will be. You're a woman of the Water Tribe, a master waterbender, a lady of the moon and ocean. If you do become Fire Lady, which, dear Agni I hope you do, I want to make sure the world remembers your heritage and where you come from. The waterbender of the Fire Nation."
Katara can feel the tears pooling in her eyes, but she furiously blinks them away. She will not cry because of the love this man has for her, who is willing to change the traditions passed down from his people for her. She smiles, wiping her eyes. "You know, Zuko," she begins lightly. "This is a bit big to fit around my neck."
He's quiet for a moment, and she watches his eyes slowly widen at her implication. "No! I, uh- see the thing is, I didn't want- I mean, I just-"
She laughs when his arms begin to flail, and pulls him down for a kiss. He starts against her lips, but after a moment he leans in, and they fall back down together onto the mattress. Katara laughs again once they separate, and Zuko nips her nose in response.
"I didn't want to replace your mother's necklace," he whispers, and Katara's hand goes to her throat. " I figured this was one Water Tribe tradition you wouldn't mind me skipping."
She smiles, and Zuko rolls to lay next to her. Katara lifts her hand and stares at the moon headpiece in her hand, admiring the smooth curve of it in her palm. "Thank you," she whispers, and rolls over to face him. He's watching her like she is the sun. "You're right, this is too soon, but I love it. And I want to be here, I really do. I want to be here with you."
He smiles and leans in close, resting his forehead against hers. " Thank you, Katara," he whispers.
It's an easy kind of love, the way Zuko loves her, and the way she loves him. It's simple in the way a turtleduck needs a pond to swim, the way a dragon needs fire to breathe. How the airbenders rely on the wind to carry them to the highest turrets on the temples, how the blood in the human body needs the heart to live. It's simple in the way fire ignites the world, and water soothes the burn. Like yin and yang, push and pull, hot and cold, ice and fire.
Zuko and Katara.
Notes: The lady of the moon idea was inspired from @zutarawasrobbed, as well as @kakarinlin who made the most beautiful artwork for the idea. Credits to these two lovely people for inspiring me.
I hope you guys liked it. Please let me know what you think (remember, I haven't written smut in a while so idk how good it is). I also have a tendency to write things in one sitting and publish it before it turns into a multichap monster, so don't hate me too much if it's got a weird flow to it
#zutara#zutara fanfiction#zuko#katara#my loves#zukoxkatara#wolfspirit44 on ff.net#zutara month 2020#always late#that's me
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207
Tiera tensed, looking up from the wood she was chopping. Someone had crossed her outer wards, three someone’s. She set the axe aside and quickly turned.
“Rene, Nyla.” She called out, an edge to her tone. “Someone’s here. Stay inside.”
They both nodded, before ducking inside.
Tiera didn’t bother grabbing any weapons she could handle three people. She flew and landed on the path in front of trio, wings press slightly to intimidate them, before they relaxed as she recognized the intruders, or at least two she recognized.
“Zughei! What are you doing here?” She asked, pulling the other half-dragon into a hug.
Zughei chuckled. “I was nearby. Thought I’d stop by for a visit.
“Risky coming into a dragon’s territory.” Tiera pointed out.
“Half-dragon.” Zughei pointed.
“Also don’t you live in a different country, why are you in the area?” Tier asked, as she led them up the path.
Zughei shrugged. “Technically we don’t live anywhere. We don’t own a house, but currently our camp and our horses are a little way farther down the mountain. I didn’t want to spook you.”
Tiera smiled. “Thanks, but go get them. I can handle a few guests for a little bit.”
Zughei nodded.
“I got it.” The hooded stranger that Tiera didn’t recognize said.
“Need a hand?” The one that she did recognize, Fymeh, asked.
The stranger shook their head. Neither Fymeh or Zughei or her pushed it anymore as she turned and headed back down the path.
“Who are they?” Tiera asked. “They’re new.”
“She’s our...” Zughei glanced at Fymeh.
“Girlfriend.” Fymeh finished.
Tiera tilted her head to the side in confusion.
“But you are dating Fymeh. Fymeh came first.” Tiera pointed out.
Zughei nodded. “Yes, and then Nix came. And now we are all dating.”
“You didn’t get, uh, possessive?” Tiera asked, curious. Zughei was also a half-dragon. Certainly she felt the same protective urges over her mate.
“Ohhh.” Zughei muttered, understanding Tiera’s confusion. “No, I might’ve if Nix flirted with Fymeh first, but it was me who made the first move.”
Tiera nodded.
“Anything new with you?” Zughei asked.
“I, uh, actually have two, um, gu- girlfriends now.” Tiera admitted, trailing off and growing quiet, still unused to the relatively new development.
“Wow, okay, do tell.” Zughei said, once she got over her initial conversation.
“In due time.” Tiera promised. “Let’s get you settled first.
Zughei nodded as the campsite came in view.
“Rene, Nyla.” Tiera called out. “It’s fine, they’re friends.”
Rene and Nyla exited the house with matching expressions of confusion and shock. “You have friends?”
Zughei snorted, and Fymeh stifled her own chuckle.
Tiera just sighed. “Yes, I do. But they live in the other country.”
“The other country, very specific.” Nyla commented.
“We don’t live anywhere.” Zughei explained. “We are mercenaries. We travel with our work.”
“You are also a half-dragon?” Nyla asked, and Rene shushed her.
But, Zughei just smiled. “Yes I am.”
The group turned when they heard hoof steps that signaled the arrival of Nix with their stuff.
“Who’s- ?” Rene began asking.
“Another friend.” Tiera reassured her.
Nix came into view leading two horses.
“Only two?” Tiera asked.
“I’m a shapeshifter.” Nix explained. “I have no use for a horse.”
“A shapeshifter?” Rene balked.
Nix nodded as she tied the horse’s lead ropes to their saddles. They wouldn’t go anywhere.
“Is that strange?” Tiera asked. She was generally unfamiliar with what was normal.
Rene nodded. “Shapeshifters are extremely rare magical creatures.”
Nix flinched slightly. “I’m not a creature. I’m just a witch. I was born a human.”
“You’re a witch?” Rene asked, her shock growing.
“Ah, right. They are rare here.” Fymeh said, remembering. “The kingdom’s here held witch hunts that led magic to be almost be extinct and the few remaining keep magic hidden or are regarded as strange outsiders.”
“Oh.” Nix muttered.
“They aren’t rare where you came from.” Rene asked, curiosity gleaming in her eyes.
Tiera chuckled. “How about you finish interrogating then while I get us some food?”
“I can hunt.” Nix offered, partially out of kindness and partially because she didn’t want to answer a bunch of questions.
Tiera glanced at her, sizing her up. It was hard since most of her body was covered, only her arms were exposed. And while they were muscled and scarred and no doubt strong they weren’t a match for Tiera’s own strength, or Zughei’s.
“You are the guest.” Tiera said uncertainly.
“You are letting us stay with you.” Nix argued. “Let me get dinner.”
Tiera was still hesitant. “I’ll be faster.”
“Not by much.” Nix said.
“Really?” Tiera asked, surprised and unbelieving.
“Really.” Nix confirmed.
“Sounds like a challenge.” Zughei piped up.
“It's not a challenge.” Nix said.
“If it wasn’t before, it is now.” Nyla laughed.
“Come on there’s lots of us. And extra food never hurt anybody. You both go and make it a race.” Zughei suggested.
Tiera glanced at Nix who glanced at Tiera. Tiera was certain she could beat the human. She was a half-dragon. Her pride wouldn’t let her back down.
“I accept.” She said, confidently.
Nix nodded. “Me too.”
“Let me just grab my bow.” Tiera said and quickly went to grab it. When she returned she saw gang Nix still had only her dagger and two swords.
“Do you need to borrow one?” She asked.
Nix shook her head. “I’m good.”
Zughei did her best to hide her mischievous glint. No matter how good a hunter Tiera was, she didn’t stand a chance against Nix.
Fymeh elbowed her, but spoke up. “It’s not a real challenge without something on the line.”
She wouldn’t show it, and she knew Nix wouldn’t. But she was eager to see Tiera’s surprised expression after underestimating Nix. She was worried that Zughei’s inability to hide her emotions would allow Tiera to catch on though.
Nyla immediately latched onto the idea of a wager. “Your right... uh what’s your name?”
“Fymeh.”
“It’s not a real challenge without a wager.” Nyla finished.
“What do you want to bet?” Nix asked.
Tiera considered, what did she have to bet? She glanced at the cloaked figure.
“I win, you show me what the hood’s hiding. You take the cloak and mask off.” She challenged.
Nix nodded, despite Fymeh and Zughei tensing. It spoke levels to her confidence that she would win that she was willing to reveal her face, but Tiera had no idea. Although, Fymeh supposed, it could be that Nix agreed because she was currently shifted into her human form.
“And if I win?” Nix prompted.
“If you win....” Tiera trailed off, thinking. “I don’t know. What do you want?” She asked, drawing a blank.
“You’re the host. You decide.” Nix said, not wanting to suggest something that would make Tiera uncomfortable.
“What about-“ Rene suggested. “Tiera teaches you some dragon magic.”
Nix stifled a laugh. “I’m sorry, but a recluse who lives on a mountain by herself may not be the best teacher for a witch.”
Tiera shrugged. “She does have a point.”
“I have an idea.” Nyla said.
“What?” Tiera asked.
“She wins, you give up something for the night or give her something for the night.” Nyla suggested.
Nix shrugged. “Sure, I don’t really care.”
“We can figure out the specifics later.” Zughei said, impatient. “Just go. On the count of three.”
Nix nodded, and Tiera did the same, tensing getting ready to take off. Nix appeared relaxed from the outside, and inside she was also relaxed she wasn’t too worried.
“Three... two... one.”
Tiera took off, not looking behind her, and Nix shifted into a crow before flying off. She flew through the trees before seeing the tracks of a large hooded mammal. She switched forms, dropping into that of a panther, quickly picking up the animals scent and tracking it down. She found it and pounced, shifting midair, drawing her dagger and slashing the unfamiliar mammal’s throat. She shifted into a gryphon, picking up the carcass and flying back to the camp. She dropped it nearby the fire, before shifting back to her human form and landing softly on the ground.
The two foreign humans were looking at her with awe.
Zughei had an uncontrollable grin on her face. “Ha ha. Tiera’s going to be so surprised. But, what did you catch?”
“I don’t know.” Nix shrugged. “Some sort of Bison-like creature.”
“It’s a bizeer.” Rene provided. “It’s a large solitary grazing mammal. They are notoriously hard to hunt due to their thick hide and powerful kicks. But somehow you just got up there and slashed its throat.”
“Their meat is delicious.” Nyla added.
Rene smiled at her hungry girlfriend. “I’ll start cooking while we wait for Tiera.”
“I can skin it and butcher it.” Nix offered, already drawing her dagger.
“Thanks, but I got it. It’s one thing I have learned since fleeing my kingdom.” Rene said, leaning down to skin the animal. Tugging her dagger through its thick hide.
Nix nodded, she could respect the girl’s wishes.
She wiped her dagger off before sheathing it.
She turned to see that Fymeh was behind her.
“You were really fast.” She complimented.
Nix smiled, and blushed slightly at the compliment. “You know that Tiera didn’t really stand a chance. She was overconfident, assuming I’m just a regular human.”
“Would you really have taken off your cloak?” Fymeh asked as she led Nix over to a log to sit on.
Nix nodded. “I have nothing to hide, not when I have magic.”
“What are you going to ask her for?” Zughei asked, sitting on Nix’s other side.
“Yeah, what’re you going to ask for?” Nyla asked, piping up from across the fire.
Nix shrugged. “I don’t need anything.”
“You’re no fun.” Nyla complained.
Nix shrugged. “I get that a lot.”
Zughei laughed, and Fymeh chuckled slightly, but reached for Nix’s hand.
Nix accepted her gloves hand, squeezing it lightly.
Nix glanced up when she heard wingbeats - Tiera was back.
Tiera landed, panting slightly and she had a slight sheen from sweat. She was holding a deer. She glanced between the bezeer that Rene was cooking and Nix sitting calmly. Her jaw dropped slightly.
“How the hell...?” She muttered.
Zughei didn’t even bother trying to stop her laughter. She burst out laughing and hunched over.
Fymeh chuckled slightly.
“I’m a shapeshifter.” Nix explained.
Tiera let out a long sigh as she realized her mistake. “Not just a human.”
Nix nodded. “Nope, a witch.”
“And a Damn good one.” Zughei said. “Fymeh and I may be clueless about magic, but Nix is insane.”
“Shut up.” Nix mumbled, glad that her mask hid her blush. “I’m not that good.”
“She did come back as a gryphon.” Nyla provided.
“A gryphon? What else can you do?” Tiera asked, curious and a bit excited.
Nix huffed. “I’m not a jester. It’s not just a show.”
“Come on Nix, humor them.” Zughei urged.
Nix sighed. “Fine. I can do any shape. But, it’s easier if I can see it, at least a picture, and if I’ve done it before it’s easier.”
“If you hadn’t shapeshifted, would I have won?” Tiera asked, as she sat down after setting the deer aside and her bow and quiver as well.
Nix nodded. “Without a doubt. I wouldn’t have been able to fly. And I’m not a great shot.”
“How did you kill it?” Tiera asked.
“With a dagger.” Nix answered.
“With. A. Dagger?” Tiera repeated slowly in disbelief.
Nix nodded.
“Can we spar?” She asked suddenly.
Nix stares at her slightly shocked, so did everyone else.
Zughei was the first to respond. “Wow, I’m hurt. You normally spar with me when I visit.”
“Yeah, but you didn’t used to visit with apparently an insanely skilled human. How did you manage to snag her anyways?” Tiera asked, before turning to Nix. “Why are you with these two idiots?”
“Hey!” Zughei said offended. “We are not idiots. Fymeh is very smart. Although I may sometimes be an idiot, I have my uses.”
Tiera laughed. “I know. Doesn’t change the fact that I want to know just how good Nix is.”
“I don’t feel like that’s a fair fight though.” Nyla piped up. “You’re a little bigger and stronger than her.”
“I can level the playing field.” Nix said nonchalantly. “Just loan me some clothes.”
“Clothes?” Tiera asked.
“My clothes don’t shapeshift.” Nix explained.
“You’re going to fight as a half-dragon?” Tiera asked.
Nix nodded. “If you're concerned about a level playing-field.”
“I want in too then.” Zughei said.
“We’ll have to veto magic then.” Nix said.
“You can’t use magic?” Tiera asked over her shoulder as she went inside to grab clothes.
Zughei shook her head. “No one ever taught me. And Nix is a horrible teacher.”
Nix shrugged. “I was raised as a witch. I don’t know what to say.”
Tiera reappeared with pants and a chest wrap and a pair of boots.
“I’m just going to slip inside to change.” Nix muttered, slipping inside.
“I do want to spare just you though.” Tiera called after her. “At some point. No shapeshifting.”
“I can do that.” Nix called back through the woods, before reappearing.
Zughei gasped slightly. “Damn.”
Nix scowled, as she set her swords by a log, before drawing them.
“Blue wings?” Tiera asked.
Nix shrugged, spreading them slightly.
“Aren’t you at a disadvantage still?” Tiera asked, as she grabbed a couple of swords for herself. “Since it’s not your normal body.”
“I’ll adapt.” Nix assured her.
“Fine.” Tiera relented, squaring up.
Zughei, settles back down on a log to watch. “I’ll spar the winner.”
“You’ll be sparring Tiera then.” Nyla said confidently.
Zughei just shrugged. She would let Nix’s skill speak for itself. Although she was doubtful at first, as Tiera struck first and seemed to have the advantage. Nix seemed to be doing worse than Zughei knew she was capable of. She was a bit sloppy, almost rusty.
Then suddenly, like a switch went off in her head. She knocked Tiera’s blades aside with unexpected force and with only one sword while bringing the other one around. Zughei realized, ad the others did as well, that Nix had just grown comfortable in this form.
Tiera was heavily on the defensive, and soon found that she could barely keep up with the flurry of attacks Nix sent her way. She was used to overconfident knights that weren’t this skilled. She was also used to using magic.
She had assumed Nix, being a witch would also be used to using magic, but she didn’t seem to be having any problems.
She ended up with her arms spread wide, pressing against Nix’s attacks. She certainly wasn’t used to facing someone as strong as her.
She huffed as Nix’s foot landed on her exposed chest. She stumbled back, and Nix quickly pressed her advantage until Tiera was backed up against the cliff. Pretty soon she found a blade at her throat.
She looked up and met Nix’s eyes and saw that she was panting from the effort.
Nix stepped back, releasing her.
“Who taught you to fight?” Tiera asked, impressed.
“A few instructors, but mainly experience. I’ve been with Fy and Zug for a year or so, but before that I was on my own.” Nix explained.
Zughei stepped forwards eagerly. “My turn.”
Nix grinned. She loved sparring with Zughei.
Fymeh sighed glancing at Rene and Nyla. She saw that both had their eyes fixed on the sparring half-dragon and shapeshifter.
“Not watching?” Tiera asked, as she glanced over while getting a drink.
“I’m watching. I’ve just seen them spar dozens of times. and it’s not the same when Nix isn’t in her real form. It doesn’t feel like her.” Fy explained, eyes trailing over Nix’s form that wasn’t really Nix’s.
“Is it hard?” Tiera asked. “Dating a shapeshifter.”
Fymeh shook her head. “No, she’s comfortable enough around us to generally stay in her true form.”
“I’d imagine it could be quite fun.” Nyla butted into the conversation.
“Nyla.” Rene admonished.
Fymeh blushed as she got what Nyla was referring to. She was grateful her face was covered.
“Must you be so crass?”
Tiera muttered.
Nyla shrugged.
Fymeh turned back to watching the spar. Surprised at Zughei seemed to have the advantage. She supposed Nix had already fought and they were generally pretty evenly matched.
She realized at about the same time as Zughei though that it had been a ploy as Nix trucked Zughei into taking a risky lunge. Nix easily spun out of the way as Zughei stumbled past her. Nix shoved Zughei down, befor punching in her back, a sword to her neck and the other pressed between her wings, against her scales.
Nix climbed off and let Zughei get up. Nix was enveloped with magic as she shifted back to her human form.
Tiera wondered idly where her clothes went, but chalked it up to magic.
Nix returned to the fire closely followed by Zughei and sheathed her swords before strapping them back on.
“You can wait for your rematch until after dinner.” Rene said, sending a pointed look at Tiera.
“For now.” Tiera said, as she grabbed bowls. “Story time. How’d you meet Nix and convince her to join you? Somehow I doubt she needed the help.”
Nix sighed. “That’s actually exactly why we met and why I stayed. Someone jumped me in an alley. They managed to land a grazing blow with a poisoned dagger. I stumbled into a tavern, but then got kicked out because the owner knew me from the academy. These two saw and helped me out. To repay them I helped them out for a while, and I haven’t left.”
“The academy?” Rene asked, as she served the stew.
“A school for learning magic and fighting.” Nix explained. “I went as a teen, before taking to a life in the wilds as a mercenary. City life wasn’t for me.”
Rene nodded. “City life didn’t work for me either.”
“Your father was a dick.” Nyla cut in between bites.
“Some parents suck.” Fymeh agreed.
“So, I suppose I owe you something.” Tiera said, breaking a brief silence that had fallen.
Nix shrugged. “I don’t need anything.”
“Come on, a deal’s a deal. Just let me think of something.” Tiera said.
“You already gave me clothes.” Nix said. “Just count that.”
“Fine.” Tiera relented.
“How did you three get together?” Zughei asked, as Rene finished passing out food.
“Rene came up here, half-dead asking me to kidnap her, and Nyla came and tried to rescue her.” Tiera explained.
“Ah, yes the normal way to get together.” Zughei commented, sarcastically.
“It’s better than an arranged marriage.” Rene said softly.
“The normal way is not all it’s chalked up to be.” Nix added, muttering.
Zughei and Fymeh gave her matching looks of confusion.
“Since when did you date the normal way?” Zughei asked.
“Nicole.” Nix said, hesitant, hating even saying the name, as if it would summon her.
“Oh.” Zughei muttered.
A silence fell over the group.
Nyla broke it. “Okay, I know this is probably overstepping bounds off whatever, but what’s it like sleeping with a shapeshifter?” She asked, with no fear.
Nix balked, setting her bowl down and just standing and leaving. She was not going there.
“Nyla.” Rene and Tiera hissed, scolding. “Why?”
Nyla shrugged. “Curiosity.”
Zughei glared at Nyla while Fymeh’s expression was unreadable.
“Do you know how to fight?” Zughei growled, asking Nyla.
Nyla shook her head, startled. “No, why?”
“Urgh.” Zughei grunted. “I don’t want to actually beat you into a pulp, but I do.”
Nyla flinched away from the angry half-dragon.
“It was just a question.” She defended weakly.
“A completely inappropriate question.” Rene scolded.
“Why don’t you go work on preparing the deer to dry?” Tiera suggested. “Before Zughei rips your head off.”
Nyla nodded, hefting the deer up with some struggle and disappearing to a different part of the mountain.
“Sorry.” Zughei mumbled half-heartedly. “It’s just-“
“I get it.” Tiera reassured her. “Nyla was out of line. Will Nix be okay?”
“Yeah.” Fymeh nodded. “We just - we don’t - she’ll be fine.”
“We have to deal with enough people thinking I want to get laid.” Zughei explained. “Nix still isn’t used to it, having done solo work for so long.”
“That and Nyla isn’t the first one to have that train of that.” Nix cut in, having returned seeing that Nyla was gone. “I just grow tired of it. Shapeshifting isn’t some party trick or some kink to me.”
“What is it to you then?” Rene asked, hesitant, but curious.
“An escape.” Nix answered, and the others got a feeling that she wouldn’t elaborate.
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Zelink Month 2018. Day 30: Paradise.
(Chapter 38 of this http://lonym82fanfics.tumblr.com/post/177217153230/day-1-zelink-month-prompt-distractions-how )
Link heard a knock on his apartment door and smiled. “Be right there.” Before heading to the door, he quickly dipped his hands in the water basin and smoothed out his hair as best as possible. With a huge smile he opened the door and he greeted his guest. “Good morning, my beautiful darlin’.” And he stopped cold when he saw who it was.
“Oh…” The postman blushed. “Well, I’m flattered, but…”
Link grimaced. “I thought you were my girlfriend…”
“Of course, of course…And here I was using this new moisturizer…”
“Can I just get my mail?”
The postman gave a quiet little chuckle and held out an envelope with the crest of the Hyrulian Royal seal. “It’s been awhile since I delivered one of these to you,” he said as Link took the letter.
“Yeah…” Because she would come herself and then they would go on the mission together. Link thanked the postman and wished him a good day before heading inside.
He cracked the seal, opened the letter, and started to read.
From the desk of Zelda, Princess of Hyrule.
Salutations Link,
He smirked. Princess Zelda was as formal as ever.
I regret to inform you an unexpected matter has suddenly came up and I cannot provide help for the scheduled mission of the 38th treasure. I, and my entourage, shall be gone for a week’s time. Once I have returned, I can give you aid.
I do apologize. Your time is valuable and I’m saddened and embarrassed by this cancellation. I look forward to the competition of this mission and bringing us closer to our goal.
Sincerely,
Zelda
Link frowned. It was kind of rude to cancel last minute, but at least the Princess apologized for it. He set the letter next to his adventuring bag when suddenly he had an idea. He strapped on his sword and shield before slinging the bag over his shoulder and headed out the door.
He remembered a lot of detail about this treasure’s location and didn’t need his usual dossier. He could get the treasure and be back home before the cuccos came home to roost. Then, when that cutie finally got her rear end on over, they could just spend the entire time on a nice, long date.
He was running ideas through his head all the while getting his horse Epona from the stables and heading out to the area. Maybe a picnic on the southern hills? The sunsets were beautiful up there.
In time, he reached the outer southern river leading to Lake Hylia. Oh wait! They could go fishing! Find a nice spot with the fish jumping, cast a line, and lay back with his head on her lap. That sounded like paradise.
However before he could enjoy that rest, he’d have to find the treasure first. Link looked ahead and he could see the split in the river. He figured he’d just mosey along towards the right bend and soon he’d reach his goal.
He’d spent most of the morning traveling and the rest of the afternoon searching at the river’s end.
“There’s has to be some sort of clue,” he muttered while looking around a couple of trees. He called over to his horse. “Hey, Epona, you see something, girl?” he asked with a playful smile. Epona didn’t even look up from eating the grass. “Nothing, you say? Well, alright.” He gave a soft laugh.
After finding nothing on land, Link turned his attention to the river. He walked along the river until he could no longer see the bottom. He then got in the water, submerged himself, and swam downstream. He looked along the edges, surface for a breath and repeat.
After a while, he paused his search. He treaded water while considering his options. He was some distance from the river’s end. If he went too far, this place wouldn’t fit the description of the treasure’s location. And if that was so, then perhaps he should try another place. Maybe there was an underway entrance buried in the shallow end. How would he check? It seemed wasteful to randomly bomb the area…
“Hello!”
Link let out a yelp of surprise, as someone had breached the surface in front of him. “R-Ruteau!”
And the Zora Princess laughed at him. “I didn’t think I could sneak up on you. You should have seen your face.”
Link let himself sink a little and fumed under the water.
“I must say, I certainly didn’t expect to bump into you today,” Ruteau said as she looked to the right and left of Link.
Link raised his eyebrows and smiled when he realized why she was looking around. “She couldn’t come this time. Royal duty and all that.”
Ruteau scoffed and pouted. “Well, how rude. I’ve come to expect seeing her when I see you.”
Link shook his head. “I’ll tell her you miss her.” Ruteau looked off to the side. “Anyhow, Ruteau, since I got you out here, have you seen any underwater caves this area?”
“Caves? No. Not in this area. Why do you ask?”
“Well, you see, hey you mind we swim to shore? I’ve been swimming for awhile.”
Ruteau shook her head and they continued their conversation on the river bank. “So, you see, I’m doing our treasure hunting thing...”
Ruteau faked a yawn.
“Yeah, yeah, I know how you feel about it, Ruteau.”
She smirked.
“So, the description said the treasure was located on the right wet head of giving. I figured this must be the place. This river has two heads and it’s a water source. But I’m not having any luck finding anything.”
“Hmm.” Ruteau looked towards the end of the river. “This place does seems to fit that description. However, if it’s not here then...Oh...Oh…Oh no...it can’t mean…” Ruteau made a disgusted face, “that…”
“Don’t keep me hanging, lady. What’s this place you thinking of?”
Ruteau gave a pained expression. “Get your horse and follow me downstream. I’ll show you.”
After a short time they reached a minor lake near Zora’s Domain. Ruteau beckoned Link off his Epona and they swam to an underwater cave. It lead to an air pocket and Link saw on the ledge what Ruteau meant.
“Ah…” He looked it over. “It’s…”
“Hideous!” Ruteau proclaimed. “Simply hideous.”
Link couldn’t help but agree. “So, why is there a two-headed statue here?”
“Tsk, a neighboring kingdom gave this to my ancestors as a gift. They thought it was lovely, but no. Anyhow, they couldn’t just get rid of it. So, the king at the time moved it here and decorated this place to look like a shrine.” She turned to Link. “A shrine of generosity. Which is what I think refers to the giving part of the description.”
“I mean, so far it fits most of it. All it needs is,” he stopped as he heard a plop. They looked up at the right head. Link got out of the water and climbed up the statue. Soon he saw a drop of water fall from the ceiling into the decorative hat of the right head. “Huh.” Link looked and in the small basin was an opal in the shape of a shell. He collected it and called over to Ruteau. “Got it.”
“What? Are you serious? It was that simple? And there was nothing locking the treasure in place? Anyone could have come down here and taken it! Then what would you have done?”
Link placed the treasure in his bag. “That actually did happen to us once. There was this treasure suppose to be in a desert temple, but raiders had ransacked it.” He smiled at the memory. “Long quest...but that adventure was when me and her first kissed.” The setting wasn’t the most romantic. They thought they were going to die and wanted one last moment together. And she was so beautiful. After they survived, he couldn’t help but court her. She didn’t mind at all. She admitted she had a crush on him for a long time.
“Aww, that’s sweet.” Ruteau smiled. “She’ll have to tell me more about that next time I see her. Next time. Anyhow…” She did a couple of backstrokes. “Since we got your silly treasure, let’s leave this eyesore of a place.”
Link nodded and, when they reached the shore, they said their goodbyes.
“And tell her she better come with you next time. Or, or...umm, oh, or I’ll steal you away from her.”
Link chuckled. “And get an ugly gift like that statue? No thanks.”
They laughed and Ruteau splashed away.
In a week’s time, Princess Zelda finally arrived at Link’s place and knocked. The door opened a smidge. Link wanted to verify it was her first before he opened it and proclaim, “Good morning, my darlin’!”
“Link! I’m so happy to see you. How have you been?”
“Wonderful now that you’re here. Ready for the mission?” He walked back into the apartment and she followed. “I got us some aquatic equipment for this one.”
“Yes. That’s a good idea. I think the treasure may be in the river that flows south of…”
Link gently tossed her something and she caught it. She opened her hands and saw the opal shell. She blinked and looked at Link. He was holding two fishing rods. She blinked again and looked back to the treasure. She opened her mouth but shut it. She wanted to confirm, but she had a fathom of what he did. She felt annoyed. His grinning face weren’t helping that feeling either.
She set the treasure on the nearby self, place the other hand on her hip and cocked her head. “You,” she began, “are such a pain.”
He tossed the fishing rods on the bed and scooped her up in her arms. She gave a delighted cry and laugh, as he spun her around. When he stopped she slowly sank down, slinking her arms around his neck and kissed him.
And Link decided, it didn’t matter where they went; anywhere with her was paradise.
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"North and South: Part Three" - a review
My copy of "North and South: Part Three" arrived exactly a week ago and I finally managed to read it (for the first time in the correct order without skipping any pages) yesterday early morning around 5-6 am. I'm not sure about the previous trilogies, but since I'm aware of how this one has received so much critique and it's probably my favourite out of all of them, I feel the need to share my more-positive thoughts (and protect my babies).
Before I begin, I'd like to point out what I've already written about some of the scenes/pages when I first saw them (basically my first feels about those moments): pages 5-15, 16-20, also a few random pages. Besides that, I wanna share this good review I accidentally stumbled across while searching for scans and this awesome video (with a fitting sound effect), where Katara slaying Gilak and Aang catching Hakoda has been animated.
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Alright, since the third part starts with Toph Beifong and her students continuing the work at the oil refinery, I'll start with my thoughts on her. The way Toph talks to her students is hilarious - they're the most prestigious and only metalbending school in the world. When she asks Ho Tun whether they're metalbenders or lily livers and he hesitates before answering - priceless. Dude, like you ever had a choice.. I must agree with Toph that politics are (often) dumb.
Katara ain't interested in helping to build something that can potentially damage the environment of her home - darn right, I support her! For those who might not understand why she's against the oil refinery, please read my review of the second part over here. I've explained it pretty well why I can understand her concern, as well as why she's not happy about changing everything they've ever loved about home (like she says a bit angrily to Sokka, who's clearly much more excited).
Let me continue with some other side characters while I'm on the topic. There's one character I'd like to bring up here, who simply kept surprising me throughout this last part and who I am so-so proud of - Zuko. I just wanna hug him and tell him how proud I am of him, okay!? That moment when he said the Fire Nation is ready to help the Southern Water Tribe, especially since they've caused enough harm to them during the war - it reminded me of his daughter, Izumi, doing the contrary 70 years later when she refuses to join an unprovoked attack against Kuvira's army with the United Republic of Nations due to the Fire Nation's warlike history. Even the angle on their faces during these scenes is the same. Like father, like daughter for real here. Zuko's humility is worth noting.
There were some other fun moments with Zuko that I liked, such as how he and Sokka hugged during his arrival at the South Pole (for the first time after the war!). Can I just say, brotp for life? I love how this reminded me of Zuko hugging Aang before they parted ways in "Smoke and Shadow" (the angles of these scenes are the same, too), but now they're reuniting. Speaking of hugs, I cannot stress enough how much I love that the world leaders (Avatar Aang, Head Chieftain Hakoda, Earth King Kuei and Fire Lord Zuko) are getting along so well. I repeat, I wish that such a peaceful time would come to our world, too. Kuei offering Zuko to join him in Bosco's paws is such a simple, but sweet and caring act. This really gives 'bear hug' a new, quite literal meaning. Zuko being afraid of bears is another amusing fact. One final thing, I loved how the writers showed that Zuko's a master planner, too - like Sokka, he can anticipate their enemy's moves, understand the motives behind their demands and he knows how Gilak thinks. Also, crossing-his-arms pouty Zuko is adorkable and cute.
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Enough about the side characters, I'll talk about the conference since it already came up earlier. Let's take a step back before the meeting because I love that Sokka supports Malina during the unrest in the beginning. She really needs someone (besides Hakoda) to be there for her during such a hard time - her brother Maliq was sent back to the Northern Water Tribe along with the rest of her crew, they were both nearly killed, she had to see the love of her life almost bleed to death right in front of her. She hasn't had it easy either.
I also enjoyed seeing Sokka's enthusiasm towards his father's presentation during the meeting, like a best friend cheering his mate on, supporting each other. Now that's the kind of father-son bond I love. I hadn't seen page 22 before, so that really made my heart skip a beat (in a good way, it was a nice surprise) - the foundation of the future Southern Water Tribe, laid down by Hakoda and Malina. I felt so happy to see the familiar plan of what we've already seen realized 70 years later (during TLOK Book 2). This connection made me smile. During the fight I loved the scene of Sokka throwing his boomerang to cut down the chandelier so it'd fall on the soldier's head. Look at his smug face, such satisfaction.
In contrast to Sokka's delight, I loved how an annoyed Katara defended her point of view when the Earth King declared that he might not be ready to aid them with their plans. Her comparison of the Outer Ring (I do believe she meant the Lower Ring though?) and her home in particular was supposed to be a nice (unfinished) insult, since Kuei implied that her tribe should be cleaner. Well, the tribe being warmer is something they can't change, but then again Kuei hasn't even seen the world, so he doesn't understand how climates and weather work. I'm rather quick to forgive him for his clumsiness, however, I understand why Katara is justifiably angry at him for saying such things. But, as a reader, I'm ready to give Earth King Kuei time to learn. Because I know where he comes from and why he's like that.
Moving forward a bit, there was a moment involving him, which felt like a cold shower. It was the moment I realized that the situation's serious, far more serious than I'd originally imagined. When Zuko claimed that killing the Earth King could start a new war. This was a possibility I'd never considered and the mere thought sent shivers down my spine. The Earth Kingdom attacking the Southern Water Tribe for murdering their leader. A frightening reality.
While the Earth King was gone, I really felt for Bosco, who was obviously worried about him. Hakoda correcting Malina that the bear missed his best friend, not his master, was very endearing (I'm loving their private moments more and more). Like Appa was worried about Aang when he disappeared into the Spirit World. Both times, Katara's the one who comforts them - I guess she has a way with animals, too, just like her boyfriend (these two are perfect for each other). Also, I like to think that Momo and Bosco are best buddies.
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Having mentioned the fight and the kidnapping, I'd like to write down my opinion about that as well as the beginning of the exchange in the mountains. First off, that fierce glare at Gilak when Katara wanted Aang to drop her - my only thoughts were something in the lines of "Oh, shit! She's mad.." and "Damn, she's ready to shred him to pieces!" (honestly, so would I be). Lesson learned (long ago, actually) - don't mess with this girl or her family, because she will kill you. Katara and Aang's teamwork in order to save Hakoda was excellent. Aang's face when Sokka and Katara told him about the Bridge of No Return later made me laugh though. The Southern Water Tribe can be fricking savage.. good luck with your girlfriend there, Aang! I'm just kidding.. but seriously, Southern Water Tribe people are not to be messed with.
Coming back to Aang and Katara, I've gotta admit that I was pleasantly surprised at how much they interacted in this part (my expectations were low based on what I'd heard). There were so many little moments or big action scenes where they were together, all of which filled my heart with joy. For example, once they'd reached the Bridge of No Return, Aang was standing a few feet away from Katara when he answered Sokka's question. But he noticed that Katara was worried - she didn't even address him, he simply noticed. So Aang just walked up to Katara to kiss her cheek and comfort her that everything's going to turn out fine. What a cutie! Just look at that gentle caressing of her right cheek, she's smiling while holding onto his forearm to hold it steady (or to pull him in closer because she likes what he's offering to her - love, comfort and hope).
Following this scene, when the members of Team Avatar were getting chi blocked was a moment where I felt like I wanted to jump in the middle and interfere to help them. Chi blocking has always creeped me out (in the sense that you'll be completely defenceless/paralyzed), so this particular scene wasn't pleasant to read for me, even though I liked it. Sokka's reaction really made me laugh - kind of not the time to be happy about it, buddy. Also important, Hakoda worrying about their well-being and calling them kids is touching (well, they are still teenagers so it makes sense).
I was absolutely mind-blown by the plan Sokka came up with on how to neutralize the chi blockers' attacks. This was a nice tie-in to the armour of the Metalbending Police Force of Republic City. Turns out it wasn't Toph who invented the originals, instead it was Sokka! His plan in general was ingenious. I'd seen the pages where they were chi blocked, but I hadn't seen how they come out of it. I expected them to wait or stall Gilak's army long enough for them to regain their ability to move and bend. This was an amazing turn of events. Toph and Katara getting revenge on those two annoying chi blocker siblings - I just wanna praise my girls forever because gosh, I hated those two! They really irked me. I loved Katara and Aang's quick reaction when they had to go rescue the rest of the three still hanging from the rope bridge. Sweeties saving people together.
I liked the way Hakoda talked to the Earth King while he was walking to the middle of the bridge. He was supportive and tried to help Kuei get his mind off the fear of falling by reminding him of Bosco. I didn't notice until I reread the book a second time, but when Malina is saying her final farewell to Hakoda, the Earth King is crouching and covering his eyes whereas everyone else's mouths are wide open. Either he can't look because he's scared to see what'll happen next or.. he's crying.
When the rope finally broke, the looks on everybody's faces killed me, especially Sokka and Katara's. How many times does Katara have to scream "Dad!" and have my heart break into a million pieces? I don't think this question will ever receive an answer. Hakoda's a side character and as we all know from the original series (for instance, take Yue or Jet), anything can happen to these beloved characters. And Hakoda's one of my favourites! He really has a special place in my heart, he reminds me of my dad and that's why the whole Hakoda-Katara (father-daughter) dynamic makes me emotional every single time. I see a lot of myself in Katara, too.
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And with that, I reach the most heartbreaking turning point of this part - Malina sacrificing herself to save at least one of them, namely Hakoda. How did I interpret this moment? In various ways.
First off, I immediately noticed the gleam on Katara's necklace and knew it was related to what she says at her mother's grave the next day. It symbolizes her mother's courage running through her veins, her instincts kicking in to go save the woman. But I think there are two other things that are going through Katara's mind.
Katara sees this as the moment Aang fell in the Crystal Catacombs, which she mentions the next day. She sees herself in her dad, having to witness the love of his life die right before his eyes (again). Besides that, it also symbolizes what happened 9 years ago - Katara being the first one to see the look on her dad's face when he realized he'd lost Kya. Remember, Katara and Hakoda both ran into their igloo and found Kya dead, Sokka probably joined them a bit later. Their mother, his wife. The worst part is Katara has seen it before. It's a painful reminder that back then (and for the following 6 years) Katara blamed herself for not being strong enough to save her mom. But this time everything's different. She's a master waterbender, she knows she's capable of saving Malina, that she can spare her dad from going through the same hurt he had years ago. I imagined that during this moment, Kya was knocking on Katara's conscience, telling her to "Go! You're strong enough now! You can do this, sweetie! Save her!.. For him.".
Also, I realized that this is a powerful parallel - someone Katara hates (or used to hate) finally earns her trust completely, proving that their feelings for her (as a friend / as a future stepmother) and her family are real, they really do care for her and have no intentions of betraying her or her loved ones ever again. This is exactly what happened to Zuko during Sozin's Comet - he jumped in front of Katara to protect her from getting struck by lightning, which was the final and most important act in his redemption arc (concerning her). Malina does the same in order to spare at least one of them (I mean Hakoda, since Aang could've easily flown back to safety) - she accepts her fate (her eyes tear up) and willingly releases her hold on Hakoda's hand. Neither character knew that Katara would (or could heal the damage made by lightning) save them. In a way, Zuko and Malina have a similar history when it comes to befriending Katara. And this is definitely something I really love. I'm satisfied with how Malina and Katara's relationship was handled, how she earned the girl's trust by proving that her feelings for her dad were sincere. I knew it'd have to be something big because, like I said in my previous review, Katara can hold a grudge.
Cut to the next day and I admit that I wasn't prepared for this moment - Sokka and Katara visiting their mother's grave. I was really confused at first because I thought the water tribe siblings went to the place where they found Aang, but the iceberg had melted and the ground had resurfaced. I needed to read Katara's lines twice before the reality sank in and I understood why she was saying those words. The Kya-Katara (mother-daughter) dynamic has always been a touchy issue for me, too, so I broke down in tears and sobbed for a longer while. How could I have been so foolish? I still cannot believe it..
Remember when a 14-year-old Katara confessed to Haru that her mother's necklace was the only thing left of her and it wasn't enough for her? Katara, now 17 years old, has realized that there's something much bigger she inherited, someone who's been with her all this time - Kya's courage, her mom's been with her all along. This is an important step forward (in healing) for Katara. She understands that her mother's love is still inside her heart, similarly to how Aang learned (from guru Pathik) that the air nomads' love for him is still inside his heart. Look at him staring at her lovingly as she mourns. Aang's proud of Katara for reaching this realization.
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I'm gonna finish with something slightly happier, something I haven't discussed yet, but it's connected to the previous scene. The next living southern waterbenders, Sura and Siku. I managed to completely nail this subplot when I guessed what'll happen in the third part in my previous review (I'm so happy I foresaw it!). The only part I didn't see coming was Katara explaining the loss of her mom and the meaning behind it to the little girls. I bet she explained this the same way to her daughter Kya years later, I've even written my version of this happening over here. Sura and Siku understanding what Katara told them and demonstrating their waterbending to her deceased mother shows that just like the Air Nation will be reborn in 70 years, the Southern Water Tribe is very much alive. All in all, a very sympathetic ending for this subplot.
The waterbending lesson with Pakku, Katara, Aang, Sura and Siku is among my favourite scenes from this trilogy. Aang stating that Katara helped him end the war, the two of them waterbending together to show the little girls what they can (learn to) do, Katara kneeling down to the girls' height and slightly tilting her head to talk to them (her motherly side showing) - all so precious.
Do you know how children usually say things like they are? Well, I adored how they spoke about Master Pakku, it was so sincere, truthful and funny altogether. But I also understood why the girls were scared / didn't wanna show their waterbending to him. Think about it from their point of view - a strange old man who can waterbend happens to find their well-hidden village, tells them that the Hundred Year War is over and they don't have to hide their waterbending anymore. For all they know, it may be a trap and those monsters could still be out there. Where's the proof? Sura and Siku aren't convinced until they meet Aang, who confirms it.
There were so many bits and pieces I really loved that happened after Sura and Siku ran away. Pakku being sarcastic towards both Hakoda and Aang, the latter blushing as a result and the former thanking him for trying to teach those girls. Hakoda was interested in seeing what the two of them (I believe he's referring to Katara and Aang) were up to, addressing them as Team Avatar grows on him. I'm telling you, I love Hakoda so much!
And then there's the entire scene with him, his baby girl Katara, her boyfriend Aang and his pet winged lemur Momo. I love this scene for so many reasons! Including Momo finding something to eat and Aang making sure that he's well-fed (as well as the way he gulps that fruit in one bite). Hakoda being proud of Katara for becoming such a great healer, wondering whether he'd still be alive if it weren't for her (just.. I'll never get over this). Katara worrying about her dad's health (she gently wraps her arms around his), telling him about Team Avatar and her concerns about their home with Aang defending her arguments about the plans. This is the kind of scene about Hakoda, Katara and Aang spending time together that I've been wanting to see.
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To sum up, the only solution we didn't get was an explanation as to why the Southern Water Tribe is considered to be a colony of the Northern Tribe. However, while writing this review, I thought of a wild theory I'm gonna put out there. We're aware that Sokka was the last known Chief, right? If he didn't have any descendants and Katara didn't want to take on the role (being devastated after both Aang and her brother's death), then wouldn't that mean the southern tribe remained without a chief? So the Northern Chief automatically claimed control of both tribes, whereas the South still had the Council of Elders (who would later choose Tonraq to be the new chief). It didn't happen 70 years ago during Aang's time, it happened 70 years later during Korra's time. Just my idea I thought I should share.
The ending where Team Avatar is cooking together, people/ world leaders from all 4 nations are present (note the 4 elements in the correct order forming half of a circle on both sides), sitting together like family and enjoying a good celebratory meal - I believe this is a very nice way to wrap up these series for now. Gave me warm feelings and really melted my heart. Also, chubby Momo in the end!
I'd love it if the next trilogy continued by showing Team Avatar leaving the South Pole. But just before they leave, Aang and Hakoda talk privately and he asks for Katara's hand in marriage. Hakoda gladly agrees and they leave, Katara is unaware of what Aang wanted to talk to about with her dad (he keeps it a secret). Aang would propose in the third part of the trilogy, very near the end. I'm weak, but it's a great opportunity to ask and this is a moment in their lives that I really wanna see!
In conclusion, the comic trilogy "North and South" has touched me in so many ways - I've smiled and laughed, shed countless tears during heartbreaking/heartwarming scenes. It's reminded me of how much I love the Southern Water Tribe and Katara's family. How much joy I feel seeing Team Avatar back together again. I cannot possibly put all of these feelings into words, but ultimately I'm more than content with how everything turned out and very happy to own copies of these three parts. "North and South" may just as well be ranked at the very top of my list.
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