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firelordsfirelady · 7 months ago

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XI. Covered in Fire

Author: @firelordsfirelady

Imagine: When Y/N—a princess of one of the Water Tribes—is told she’s leaving her tribe, she never expects that she’s to be betrothed to the Fire Lord’s son, nor was she prepared to be exiled the very day she arrived at the Fire Nation. With her life in the hands of her new fiancée, how will life change for the princess?

Pairing: Zuko x F!Reader

Trigger warnings: arranged marriage, feelings of fear, banishment, mentions of burns/abuse, frustration, violence, betrayal

Word Count: 2936

Destined to be Yin and Yang

I own no rights to Avatar the Last Airbender or any of the characters/story.

Author’s Notes

The characters as all aged up so Zuko’s banishment happens when he’s 16

Keep in mind I am bringing a unique world with inspiration from ATLA in their characters, some of the events that happen, bending, etc. Not many things may align or occur with what happened in the show. It’s intended that way, so I hope you enjoy it regardless.

Y/N's look this chapter here.

Destined to be Yin and Yang Soundtrack (YouTube)

A set of knocks sounded on my door the next more and sent off a pounding in my head that led to the groan that left my mouth.

“Forgive me, but your presence is requested for tea at Uncle’s.” Zuko’s voice came from the other side of the door before I heard steps walk away. My head felt like I had hit it against a rock as the pounding made me close my eyes in pain. I slowly dragged myself out of bed and grabbed the first piece of fabric my hand grabbed in the darkness of my room. With how my head felt, I was thankful for the blanket covering the window and how it dimmed the light in there. I put on the dress before I threw my hair up in a bun and then left the room. I slowly walked down the hall as the soft pads of my leather shoes connecting with the floor sounded like thunder in my head. I grimaced as I knocked on Iroh’s door and Iroh opened the door to greet me.

“Good morning, Y/N.” His voice was horribly loud for my ears this morning, but his words stopped as he took in my appearance then a wide smile spread across his face. Looking over his shoulder, I saw Zuko standing with reddened cheeks as his fists clenched at his sides. Iroh’s laughter made me look at the older man with a grimace of confusion. I smoothed down the fabric of my dress as I looked down to find blood-red fabric greeting the cones in my eyes.

Of course, I would blindly put on Fire Nation colors. My cheeks felt aflame as I looked back up to the older man as he motioned for me to enter the room. Avoiding eye contact with Zuko, I happily sank into one of the cushions in front of a small table where a tea set rested. The tea smelled like the cure to my pounding head, so I carefully picked up the pot and poured myself a cup of the warm liquid. Carefully setting the teapot down, I tried to hide the grimace on my face as the soft sound caused my head to pound more.

“How do you feel this morning?” Zuko asked in a level tone as I closed my eyes and I slowly stirred some honey into my cup. The soft clinks of the spoon against the cup didn’t help soothe my head. Not able to tolerate the noise of the spoon anymore, I covered my ears and gently laid my head against the table’s surface.

“The sound of my own breathing is sending waves of pain through my head.” My voice was muffled as I spoke into the table. “The light is too bright in the dim-ass hallway.” I felt tears gathering in my eyes as the pain in my head was quickly becoming unbearable with my eyes, so I closed my eyes. “I really want to drink this cup of tea but I just cannot tolerate the sound of the spoon in the cup.” Fighting a sob towards the end, I took a deep breath in an effort to calm myself down. Neither one of them said anything and I took a few moments to calm down before I spoke again. “Are we still on our course for the Fire Nation?”

Silence greeted my question as I tried to recollect what happened last night. I couldn’t remember much of what happened after I brought Iroh and Zuko the cupcakes. My heart felt heavy in my chest as an ominous sensation danced over the hairs on my skin.

“He ran!” Zuko’s paroxysm of rage caused a yelp to leave my lips as his fist collided with the table next to him. “The world’s greatest warrior! And he ran. He’s a coward!” I tried to plug my ears to protect my head from the volume of his voice.

“I wouldn’t say that.” Iroh’s voice was soft enough for me to unplug my ears to hear him clearly. “I would just say the Avatar isn’t what either you or I were expecting.”

“I’m still the heir to the Fire Nation Throne--” Zuko’s volume was much quieter than before, and I felt some of the tension in my shoulders relax as a thought crossed my mind. Focusing on the honey and the tea, I hovered my hand over the cup and mixed the contents within before I lifted my head to take a sip.

Mixed to perfection. I took another sip as the pounding in my head slowly dulled as the warm liquid filled my stomach.

“It is precisely the reason why being in this remote corner of the world is an advantage.” Iroh’s soft words brought me back to the situation of the room.

“So, where are we heading now?” I asked as I dared to open my eyes. Iroh was sitting with his legs crossed on the cushion across from me as he sipped on his own cup of tea.

“We will be meeting with the Commander of an outpost nearby.” Zuko’s calm words seemed bitter as he turned away from me to look at the map on the wall.

“How long until we arrive?

“We will dock in a few hours.” I gave a nod as I relished in another sip of the tea before I bit my lip as I asked my next question.

“Is it okay if I stay on the ship?”

If I understood what Zuko said the other night, then I didn’t need to be going to outposts and meeting Commanders as his fiancée. Zuko looked over at me as he pondered what he wanted to say.

“If you are feeling alright, your presence would be preferred.” I couldn’t distinguish what his tone was trying to say, but he cleared his throat and continued in a level tone. “You are my betrothed, after all. You will need to know the business of the Fire Nation.”

My mind couldn’t quite wrap my head around what Zuko meant by his words, but I finished my cup of tea before I gently set the cup down.

“I shall attend the next meeting then.” I stood up and bowed to the two men in the room as my head felt better than before, but I wanted to be in the silence of my room for a while. “I will await the news of the meeting.”

Leaving without another word, I quickly made the short journey to my room and shut the door before I collapsed onto the bed. Exhaustion quickly gave way to a dreamless rest as I suddenly opened my eyes at the sound of knocking on my door.

“Yes?” I quietly answered as I wiped the sleep from my eyes.

“We have docked at the outpost.” Zuko’s voice came from the other side of the door. “Will you be accompanying us?” Slowly sitting up in the bed, I still felt the dull ache in my head and the pain in my chest.

“I will attend the next one.” I kept my voice even as I moved to sit in the chair. “I’ll stay on the ship.” Zuko said nothing before I heard his footsteps walk away from the door.

A little while later, I was sitting in my room working on shading my firebender when the sound of hurrying footsteps came from down the hall. The door to my bedroom was flung open by several Fire Nation soldiers.

“Wha—“ Hands roughly grabbed my arms and dragged me out of my room. “What’s the meaning of this?” I asked as I tried to pull away from two men holding me.

“Silence, Waterbender.” One of the men harshly ordered, and I felt the color drain from my face.

This was not going to end well.

The men drug me through the streets of the small outpost before they brought me to a set of double doors. A sinking feeling developed in the pit of my stomach as the guards outside the room threw open the door to reveal Zuko and Iroh as they sat in two chairs in the middle of the room. The sound of the door opening drew the room’s occupants’ attention as I was roughly brought to my knees a few feet away from the Prince. Zuko’s eyes briefly flashed with anger as he saw me, and Iroh’s face twisted in concern. A stranger stood between us three, and my breath hitched as he turned around to reveal the stranger who had thrown the fireball at me. His eyes stared down at me with hatred and amusement as the guards holding me spoke.

“The interviews with the crew are complete. They said that this one right here is a Waterbender.” The word itself must’ve tasted bitter on the guard’s tongue as he tightened his grip on my bicep. I bit the inside of my cheek to prevent any signs of pain from showing on my face. I’m sure all the color has drained from my face as my heart pounds in my ears. Bravely, I focused letting my eyes convey defiance as the man smiled then humorlessly laughed.

“You lost the Avatar because you picked up a Waterbender and she helped the Avatar escape.” The man’s words were full of humor as he laughed before my vision faded from impact with an object. If the guards weren’t holding me as tightly as they were, I would have fallen to the ground. The silence around me slowly faded into loud shouting. As my vision slowly came into focus, Zuko was standing face-to-face with the man.

“Do you want a burn to match?” Zuko sounded pissed.

“Are you challenging me to an Agni Kai?” Zhao teased.

“Agni Kai at sunset.” Zuko spat at the man. The two men holding me suddenly let me go and I barely caught myself before I hit the ground too hard. Iroh walked over and gently helped me stand up.

“Too bad your father won’t be here to watch me humiliate you.” The man and his guards turned and left the room after he said his venomous words. Once the three of us were alone, Iroh calmly spoke to Zuko.

“An Agni Kai?” I watched Zuko’s face as his uncle spoke. “You remember what happened last time you fought a master.” Zuko’s fists clenched at the mention of the event.

“Let’s get Y/N back to the ship.” Zuko turned on his heel. “She needs to see the doctor.”

Iroh offered to help walk me back to the ship, but I declined as I forced myself to stand on my own two feet. The world spun for a moment before I centered myself and followed behind Zuko as he quickly left for the ship. The Prince’s steps were too quick for the state I was currently in, so I leisurely walked with Iroh to the boat.

“Iroh,” I asked as we walked. “Who was that guy?”

“He’s Commander Zhao. He is a bitter man who is always seeking to climb in the ranks of the Fire Nation.” Iroh’s tone was calm as he spoke to me. “He carries on the Fire Nation’s beliefs that fire is the superior element.” Iroh watched as Zuko’s figure slowly got farther away from us.

“I could see that hit you took from the Commander threw you for a loop.” Iroh’s voice was gentle as he spoke. “I think it upset Zuko because he exploded at Zhao.” I felt worry settle into my facial features.

Was Zuko in the Agni Kai because of me? I shook the arrogant thought from my head as I tried to quicken my steps to the boat.

After receiving clearance from the doctor, I stood next to Iroh in front of Zuko as he kneeled on one knee. The air of the Agni Kai field was hot with the heat of anger coming off the two men as they kneeled with their backs to each other. I swallowed the words in my throat as I gave Zuko a reassuring smile.

There was no doubt in my mind that Zuko would win.

“Remember the firebending basics, Prince Zuko.” Iroh coached him in a soft tone.

“I’m not going to let him win.” Zuko stood and turned as the red cloth draped around his shoulders flew to the ground below him. Zhao did the same and a large bell was hit to signify the start of the battle. Iroh pulled me to the side to watch from a safe distance. The two men were of similar builds as their bodies were toned and evident of consistent training. A split moment of silence fell upon the field before Zuko let out a yell as he sent whirl after whirl of fire. The Commander effortlessly dodged Zuko’s attacks as Zuko panted from his effort. Zhao seemed to dance as he dodged and blocked Zuko’s fire blasts. Zhao sent Zuko a blast that was larger than any fire Zuko had sent Zhao’s way. Zuko looked slightly overwhelmed for a moment, which served to boast Zhao’s confidence as he got ready to attack again.

“You got this Zuko.” I whispered to myself as I watched the scene unfold in front of me. I saw Iroh glance at me out of my peripheral.

“Basics, Zuko!” Iroh yelled as a reminder. “Break his root!” My heart raced as Zuko blocked three shots Zhao fired at him, but the fourth one sent Zuko flying backward. I looked at Iroh who shook his head as I shifted the weight on my feet.

I knew the rules of the Agni Kai, but I wanted to help Zuko. Zhao pursued and moved to burn Zuko. Zuko’s face twisted in fear before Zuko spun on his hands and used his feet to dispel the fire from the Commander and swipe the Commander’s leg out from him. Zhao fell to the ground with a heavy thud as Zuko stood in an offensive stance. His golden eyes shone with confidence as he kicked fire at the Commander, sending the older man scattering backward as Zuko persisted with the attack. Zuko sent fire kick after kick towards the Commander until the man with the sideburns fell and rolled onto his back

“Do it.” The Commander taunted Zuko as the Prince stood victoriously over the older firebender. Zuko sent a fireball towards the left side of the ground next to the general. As Zuko stood there, I found myself admiring the young prince as he stood above the older man. He could have easily given the Commander the burn mark Zuko had promised him, but he stood triumphantly and looked as calm as a cucumber.

“Your father raised a coward,” Zhao remarked bitterly after he did not receive the burn he was expecting. I balled my fist at the Commander’s words, but I looked at Zuko as he calmly spoke.

“Next time you get in my way, I promise I won’t hold back.” Zuko turned to walk away from the older man as he lay on the ground. I smiled with pride as Zuko walked towards his uncle and me.

As Zuko walked towards us, we walked towards him as I watched the Commander stand up. I saw his shoulders tense before he let out a yell. In the blink of an eye, I summoned a large wave of water to intersect the large blast of fire Zhao sent toward the Prince with my hand before I caught the foot of the Commander. The air of the battlefield stilled as I narrowed my eyes at the surprised face of the Commander before I sent him flying back with a wave of water. As the Commander collided and slid along the floor a few feet away from me, I straightened my posture and smoothed the soft red material of my dress as I heard Iroh exclaim from behind me.

“No, Prince Zuko, do not taint your victory!” I narrowed my eyes at the Commander as he lay on the ground in a puddle of water. His eyes seethed with anger as he looked at me as I audaciously stood in my place.

“This is how the great Commander Zhao acts in defeat?” The words left my mouth evenly as I spoke to the man. “Coward.” I turned on my heel and walked back over to Zuko and his uncle before I added. “Even in exile, Zuko is more honorable than you.” Zuko’s eyes met mine as his golden orbs tried to convey a message to me.

What’s that look for? I simply smiled at the Prince as I turned to look at Iroh as he spoke.

“Thanks again for the tea. It was delicious.” The three of us turned around and left through the large doors of the Agni Kai battlegrounds. The walk back to the ship was quiet and, as we arrived back to the ship, I quickly bowed to Zuko when he turned around to look at me.

“Forgive me, but I am still not fully recovered from all of the recent excitement.” My head was starting to pound stronger now that adrenaline wasn’t pumping through my veins. “I just need to rest.”

“Yes, please rest easy, Princess.” Iroh said as he turned to bow to me, but I gave the older man a disapproving look.

“I hate that name.” Placing my hands on my hips, I sighed as I smiled at the older man. “If anyone shall need me, you know where I’ll be.”

Without waiting for a reply, I quickly made my way to my room.

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#avatar imagine #zuko imagine #zuko x reader #avatar the last airbender #prince zuko #destined to be yin and yang

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imagines--galore · 10 months ago

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||The Thread of Fate|| Part Nine

Summary: Soulmate AU. They say the Thread of Fate connects you to your one true love. It may tangle. It may stretch. But it will never break. Wrapped around your little finger it tightens when it feels your soulmate is close and loosens when they are far. And becomes visible with the colors of your soulmate’s Nation when you finally fall in love with them.

Pairing: Zuko x OroraOC (ATLA)

Rating || Genres || Warnings: T+ Romance. Adventure.

Previous Chapters - Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five, Part Six, Part Seven, Part Eight,

A/N: So I didn't mean to stay away for so long but then life happened :/ Anyway! Hope you guys enjoy this REALLY long chapter!

To say it had been a close call would be an understatement. Not only had they escaped the Fire Nation Princess as well as the Fire Nation in the past few weeks, but somehow had managed to evade capture once more by two unknown assailants from the Earth Kingdom.

Hiding away in flower pots had certainly not been a comfortable idea, but it proved effective.

While the shopkeeper's son wheeled them away from the small village that had offered them refuge, Orora's mind caught up with all that had happened since yesterday.

Finding someone to help them.

The strange Pai Sho game.

The White Lotus Tile.

Escaping the Oasis.

Iroh's strange meeting.

Falling asleep on Zuko's shoulder.

The last one had a blush stealing across her cheeks, and the memory of it had her stomach flipping in on itself.

It was ridiculous just how strangely her body was reacting to what had happened. Especially when the waking up part had involved Zuko suddenly jumping to his feet and her body flopping to the side on the dirt floor.

He didn't even apologize for it, which only added to her annoyance of having been so rudely awakened.

As her annoyance faded to mild irritation, her mind began to wander had just how much her life had changed within the past few months.

Not only had she left home and her family, but she had also found herself a Master who could teach her. Her healing abilities had increased exponentially given the severity of the patients she had taken care of, not to mention how many she had treated. She had learned how to fight, a feat she was most proud of considering she barely had any training. The Moon Spirit herself had visited her and offered her advice. Her fingers unconsciously brushed against the white patch in her hair.

And then there was the fact that she had also found her soulmate.

Albeit one she could never accept but still. Not a lot of girls from the Northern Water Tribe claimed to have found their soulmates. Most of them had their marriages arranged to someone of their father's choosing before they could do so.

So perhaps she was fortunate enough to know who he was.

Just too bad he was the Fire Nation Prince.

Running a hand down her face the water bender sighed. "I need to stop fixating on him so much." She muttered to herself.

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Boarding the boat that would carry them closer to their destination went about with no obstacles. Which was strange considering up till now whatever plan that was made hit a snag or two along the way. Still, she wasn't about to question fate and did remain on guard should anything go awry.

Her blue eyes were focused on the dock as it slowly grew smaller as the boat sailed away. Her Master had expressed his excitement by proclaiming himself a tourist, while Zuko remained as he preferred.

Pouting and brooding in a corner.

She barely overheard what they were speaking of, content on simply gazing at the clear water. She could see her reflection in it, could see the white patch of hair she had been blessed with.

Was that what it was then? A blessing by the Moon Spirit. Lifting her hand she brushed the tips of her fingers against the strands, tilting her head as she continued to observe her reflection. She wasn't someone who cared too much about her looks, but she didn't think she was unpleasant to look at. Cutting off her hair had been humbling in her opinion, and necessary. And the short hair did suit her, the strands now coming to just curl under her chin, the tips barely touching her collarbone. Still was she someone who could be described as being pretty? She pursed her lips, dropping her hand and shaking her head. Honestly, what was wrong with her? There were other more pressing things to worry about then her appearance.

"Orora, my dear." Iroh's voice barely registered in her mind, so lost she was as she gazed at the water, though she did make a small humming sound, to show she had heard him.

"It would seem there are a few passengers in need of your abilities."

That got her attention. Standing straight, the young girl followed his line of sight to see a young mother trying to console her small child. The little boy's arm was in makeshift sling, and even from here Orora could see how awkwardly the boy was holding his arm.

With an encouraging nod from her Master, the young waterbender slowly approached the duo. The mother looked up as she came closer.

"I'm sorry if his crying is disturbing you. It's just he's hurt an-" Orora shook her head, letting her lips curve into what she hoped was a friendly smile. "That is not the reason why I came. I'm a Healer, and I wanted to see if I could do something to help him."

So saying she bent down on her knees and reached out a hand towards the boy. "May I?" The mother looked a little unsure, but the child let out a loud whimper and she relented. Removing the sling, Orora uncorked her water pouch and coated her hands with the liquid. It glowed under her touch, mesmerizing the boy and distracting him from the pain as well as the fever that raged through his tiny body.

"It is a small break, but one I will be able to fix." Orora observed. She pressed her hands atop the boy's arm and took a deep breath. The blue glow around her hands intensified briefly before dying down. "Now try to move your arm." She encouraged with a smile, once she had removed her hands.

The boy was hesitant at first, but when no pain radiated from his injury, he let out a bright, happy laugh before swinging his arm around. Orora couldn't help but laugh lightly at his enthusiasm. "Well, it looks like you're all better now." She turned her attention to the mother who was looking at her in utter disbelief.

"He'll need something to make sure his fever goes away." Reaching into her bag she pulled out a small pack of leaves. "So just add this in his water and he should b-" The next moment all the breath was knocked right out of her as the mother all but threw herself forward and wrapped her arms around Orora in a tight embrace. "Thank you. Thank you so much." She all but sobbed. For her part, Orora patted the woman awkwardly on the back a few times.

When it came to physical displays of affection, her life had been quite lacking. Her father had never hugged her, her mother would only brush her hair in affection. The only embrace Orora could recall was one she had received from her grandmother. And that was so long ago.

She barely remembered it.

Once she was free of the embrace, the young girl quickly stood up and nodded at the small family before quickly retreating to where her two travel companions were. She moved to resume her previous stance when a voice stopped her.

"Why did you help them?"

Her head turned sharply in Zuko's direction. He was standing up against the support beam she had just passed, arms folded and a rather irritated look on his face. Which was the norm really.

"We're supposed to be keeping a low profile. You can't just go around and heal people." His words had her sighing in an almost exasperated manner. "Tell me Lee." The use of his other name sounded strange upon her tongue, and if Zuko were honest a tiny part of him didn't like hearing that name coming from her lips.

He much preferred Zuko.

Without so much as a hint of emotion in her features she continued. "If you came across a person, begging for water, and what you had was the last of your reserve would you give it to them?"

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The silence that followed her words stretched on. Both teenagers refused to look away from the other, having started some sort of staring contest where neither wished to admit defeat. However there were subtle differences between their expressions.

Orora's face was tilted upwards slightly, silently challenging Zuko to answer and nearly taunting him with her eyes as she did. Zuko, on his part, had his lips pursed, and while Orora's stance was more relaxed and at ease, it was clear there was an inner battle that raged within the banished prince.

Then again, there was always a battle raging within him every waking hour.

Unable to bear the intensity of Orora's gaze, he was the first one to look away. The girl let out a small sound that was a mix between disappointment and annoyance. "When you're ready to give an answer to my question, I'll answer yours." She said referring to what he had asked earlier. With that she walked past him towards Iroh who stood nearby trying to act as if he wasn't paying attention to them. And failing at it.

"I'm going to take a walk around the deck. See if anyone else needs my help." With a nod of confirmation from her teacher, Orora gripped the shoulder of her water satchel and with one backward glace in Zuko's direction, walked off.

The young prince watched her as she left. He couldn't understand why she went about helping people like she did. Sure she had done it in the past, but that was mostly to get some money for provisions. These people couldn't give her any money.

Was she simply doing it out of kindness?! Was that even possible for a person to do given how dangerous things could get for her. She was a girl after all. Not defenseless, but still an easy target.

The thought of Orora being an easy target for anyone looking to take advantage of her had a sickening feeling settle in the pit of his stomach.

And it had nothing to do with the smell of the food he had received while he had been lost in contemplation. Pushing away the unpleasant thought, he turned his attention to the broth in his bowl and made a face. It looked like dirt, and he was sure it tasted like that too. He raised the bowl to his lips and no sooner had the broth touched his lips when he spat it right out.

"Ugh! I'm sick of eating rotten food." He growled, looking like he wanted to throw the bowl into the water. "Sleeping in the dirt. I'm tired of living like this!" Maybe it was the hunger gnawing at his stomach that had his previous emotions rising to the surface. Or maybe it was the thought of a certain waterbender getting hurt somehow.

"Aren't we all?" The voice came as a sudden distraction, prompting Zuko and his Uncle to look in the direction of the speaker. A teenage boy with a stalk of wheat in his mouth stepped into their line of sight. He was flanked by two younger teenagers. "My name's Jet and these are my Freedom Fighters, Smellerbee and Longshot." He introduced himself and his companions. The girl, Smellerbee, greeted back, Longshot simply gave a small nod of acknowledgment.

"Hello." Zuko spoke in a slightly dismissive tone, hoping they would go away. However, what Jet said next caught his undivided attention.

"Here's the deal. I hear the captain's eating like a king while the refugees have to feed off his scraps. Doesn't seem fair, does it?" Iroh, who was normally against stealing but couldn't deny his hunger spoke up. "What sort of king is he eating like?"

"The fat, happy kind." Jet stated in a slightly sarcastic tone. Hearing this Iroh's mouth hung open, as his mind began to concoct all sorts of delicious meals the captain might be eating at that moment. Jet turned his attention back to Zuko. "You want to help us "liberate" some food?" He asked with a smirk. Glancing down at the disgusting slop Zuko gripped it tighter in his hand before tossing it into the water. "I'm in."

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With one final deep breath, Orora lifted her hands from the leg she had finished healing. "There. That should heal it." She informed the previously ailing old man who gave her a smile of disbelief and gratitude. His old wife reached out to clasp her hand in a motherly way. "Thank you so much my dear. We were afraid he wouldn't be able to find work with his injured foot when we got into Ba Sing Se." Orora smiled. "Well no need to worry about that now."

As she watched the old couple walk away, the man with an obvious spring in his step, her smile disappeared and she fell to the side, catching herself on the wooden railing. Raising a hand to her head, the young girl pressed her fingers against her temple to try and alleviate the pain that radiated from there. She had been healing for a good few hours now. And though she had had breaks inbetween where she would give out medicinal herbs to those who were sick, she had barely found time to stop and just rest. Let alone eat.

The sun had set a good hour or so ago. Maybe that was enough healing for the day. Her arms were aching from the multiple healing sessions, and her body felt heavy with tiredness. Was this what it felt like to heal people for such a long time? Your entire body felt like it was half-dead? Maybe she had overdone it.

But those people had needed her help, she told herself as she walked back to her travel companions, bending fresh water from the lake and into her water satchel. "Good evening, Orora." Iroh greeted as she sat down next to him. Giving a small nod, the girl stifled a yawn. "And to you Master." She glanced around, frowning slightly when she didn't see any sign of Zuko. "He has made some new friends." Iroh answered her unspoken question, prompting her to look at him in surprise. He simply smiled at her. She blushed at having been caught, but her embarrassment was forgotten when Zuko appeared with three other teenagers, bags over their shoulders.

Bags that was filled with food.

While Jet, as Iroh quickly informed her, distributed the food to the rest of the refugees, Zuko brought over several bowls of what looked like fresh food towards them. Iroh quickly accepted a bowl of noodles and began to slurp them down happily. Orora stared at the bowl Zuko held out towards her.

Their eyes locked, gold on blue, their string shorter when they were close. Slowly she reached out to take the bowl, their fingers brushing as she did. "Thank you."

It wasn't long before she had eaten her fill and was beginning to feel even more sleepier then before. Zuko had settled down beside her eating his own food.

Having distributed all the food, Jet came to sit down with them. She was only able to give him a nod of acknowledgement before resuming her semi-dozing state, trying hard not to fall asleep completely.

"From what I heard, people eat like this every night in Ba Sing Se." Said Jet. "I can't wait to set my eyes on that giant wall." He continued sounding almost wistful as he did. Iroh nodded. "It is a magnificent sight." Jet leaned forward, eager to hear more. "So you've been there before?"

The shift in conversation had Orora momentarily forgetting about her lack of sleep as both she and Zuko turned their attention towards Iroh. "Once. When I was a different man." The sadness and despair in his usually twinkling eyes made Orora's heart ache and she reached out to rest a hand on top of his in comfort. Her Master patted her head, silently showing he appreciated her concern for him.

Jet pursed his lips before speaking. "I've done some things in my past that I'm not proud of, but that's why I'm going to Ba Sing Se: for a new beginning. A second chance." For someone talking about the future he didn't sound so hopeful about it, Orora mused to herself.

"That's very noble of you." Iroh spoke, nodding at the teenager. "I believe people can change their lives if they want to." He glanced at his nephew. "I believe in second chances." Zuko too glanced at his Uncle, though his amber eyes shifted to Orora who rubbed the heel of her palm against her eye, yawning as she did. Iroh noticed too, prompting him to reach out and pat her on the shoulder.

"Perhaps you should turn in, my dear. You've had a tiring day." Wordlessly the girl nodded, barely able to keep her eyes open. Slowly she rose to her feet, and had barely taken a step forward when a wave of dizziness overcame her, tilting her to the side and straight into Zuko. Luckily he was quick enough to catch her, though he almost fell back himself. "Orora?" The urgency in his voice was evident as he shook her shoulder. The girl mumbled something under her breath. His Uncle quickly looked the girl over and smiled in exasperation. "She has worked hard today and has passed out from being tired." He finally stated. Zuko scowled. "Well couldn't she have passed out on her bedroll?" Even with the words coming out of his mouth, his grip around her shoulder and waist did not let up.

If anything he seemed to hold her closer. Especially with Jet looking at her like he was. Zuko did not like it one bit.

"I will lay it out for her." Iroh quickly stood and went off to get a pillow and blanket from where they were stored on the ship for their use. Zuko gave a small nod of confirmation, stiffening when he felt Orora shifting a little in his arms before settling once more. Her head rested against his shoulder, and her lips were parted slightly as she breathed deeply. His features shifted to a look of concern as he quickly tried to figure out just how long she had been healing and helping people. And that too on an empty stomach. Of course, not that he could've done anything about it. She was much too stubborn to actually listen to him, but at least he would've had the chance to tell her off when she returned.

But then why should he care? A voice whispered in his head. A voice that sounded suspiciously like his sister's. Why should he care about a lowly waterbender? What was she to him?

"She your girlfriend?" Jet's question cut through his dangerous musings. Zuko leveled a particularly irritated glare in his direction. "No." He snapped, the very word laced with poison.

Just your soulmate, his brain supplied, as Jet raised his hands in a gesture that showed he meant no harm before getting up and going to look for his companions. Zuko stayed where he was, and this time he purposefully avoided looking at the girl passed out in his arms. As soon as his Uncle returned with the pillow and blanket, he laid her down on the hard floor and left her to sleep.

And if he was extra gentle with his movements as he laid her down, he did not think too much of it.

And if he lingered over her, watching her as she settled to make sure she was as comfortable as he could get, his Uncle did not mention it.

And if he leaned back down to pull the blanket over her shoulder properly so she would not be cold, Zuko pretended that he didn't, consciously, allow his fingers to brush against the soft skin of her cheek as he pulled back.

And if he happened to glance at the string around their fingers glimmer with color, he ignored it completely.

————————–

Being on your own isn't always the best path.

His own words resonated in his ears and his mind from his recent conversation with Jet. As he watched the docks grow in size as they neared their destination, Zuko couldn't help but think over what he had said. He had tried that. He had spent nearly a month on his own and it had gotten him nowhere.

If anything, things had gotten only worse for him. Maybe he had gotten used to having someone around him.

His Uncle had been by his side since his banishment. He had been the unbreakable support Zuko had needed in his times of despair. And truthfully, he was the reason he had made it this far alive. How many times had his Uncle helped him out of difficult situations? Though he would never tell him, Zuko's affections and gratitude for his Uncle ran deep. And sometimes, even though he knew it was wrong, he wished that Iroh was his real father and not Ozai.

And then there was Orora. Someone who had come into his life and made it all the more complicated. He lifted the hand where the string was tied to his finger, and followed it's path to the other end. His soulmate stood next to Iroh. Her back was towards him, allowing him to observe her without it becoming awkward for either of them. Despite the fact that nothing would come out of them being each other's soulmates, he couldn't help but wander if mayb-

The sound of the whistle blowing cut through his thoughts as their boat finally docked. The crowd began to chatter excitedly as they made their way towards the gangplanks. Sighing to himself, he walked towards Uncle and Orora.

"Well now, just one more stop and we shall begin a new life together." His Uncle stated jovially as he led the way towards the gathering crowd.

Together.

Such an insignificant word that carried so much weight.

Orora glanced in his direction as she fell into step beside him. He allowed his gaze to meet her own for a brief moment before they both looked away.

————————–

Orora was sure that the ticket woman who stood behind the booth had to be a distant relation to her old tutor, Ms. Chiyo. She had a certain look in her eye, one that Orora had dreaded as a child since those beady eyes would assess her every move looking for a slip up on her part.

The woman had been her manners and etiquette tutor for a good few years, and Orora had despised her. She had always been so harsh and could be downright cruel at times.

"So," The woman spoke, looking over their tickets and passports as the three of them stood in front of her. Mr. Lee, Ms. Orora and Mr. ummm ... Mushy, is it?

Iroh, ever the polite old man, corrected her. "It's pronounced Mushi." The already irritated woman's expression shifted to pure annoyance as she glared at Iroh. "You telling me how to do my job?" She demanded, her voice rising in pitch.

Sensing that perhaps he had done wrong, Iroh was quick to shake his head as he approached the ticket booth. "Uh, no, no." There was a brief pause on his part before he continued with a smile on his face that was, for lack of a better word, sickeningly sweet.

"But may I just say you're like a flower in bloom. Your beauty is intoxicating." Orora could feel her face morph in one of disbelief and slight disgust at the words coming out of her teacher's mouth. Beside her Zuko was no better, looking just as disgusted.

For a moment Orora was almost afraid the ticket woman would call the guards, but instead she smiled in what the young girl could only say was a flirtatious manner and return Iroh's smile.

"You're pretty easy on the eyes yourself, handsome. Roar!"

Oh that part nearly had her bursting out into laughter. She clapped a hand to her mouth, while Zuko did the same but to his eyes, as if he had no desire to even witness what was going on in front of him.

"Welcome to Ba Sing Se." Their tickets were stamped, and they were officially citizens of Ba Sing Se. Iroh grinned happily as he collected the tickets and held them out for the two teenagers to take.

"I'm going to forget I saw that." Zuko grumbled before snatching his ticket and walking away. Orora accepted her ticket as well and followed after the prince, though she allowed herself to be amused by what had happened and let out a few giggles as she did.

Iroh brought up the rear, looking rather pleased with himself.

————————–

As they waited for their train to be called, Orora leaned back where she stood, watching as the refugees boarded the trains that would take them to their destination. It seemed strange to know that she would entering a city. She had only seen small towns and villages so far. But a city as big and grand as Ba Sing Se would surely be unmatched to what she had experienced so far. And that included the Northern Water Tribe.

A familiar voice broke her out of her thoughts. "So, you guys got plans once you're inside the city?"Jet asked as he sat down next to Zuko. Orora couldn't help but frown at the teenager's insistence to be around Zuko every chance he got. What was his problem anyway? She mused to herself, not even bothering to hide her scowl as she glared at the boy. Just then a Tea-seller walked by prompting Iroh to quickly get up and buy himself a cup of Jasmine. Though no sooner had he tasted the liquid when he began to lament his mistake. "Blaugh! Ugh, coldest tea in Ba Sing Se is more like it! What a disgrace!" Orora couldn't help but giggle, reaching out to pat her Master gently on the shoulder as consolation. "I'm sure we'll get you some nice warm tea when we get to the city, Master." He nodded in affirmation. "Hey, can I talk to you for a second?" Jet said motioning for Zuko to follow him. Zuko sighed and reluctantly rose, following after him.

Once more Orora found her eyes trained in the direction of the prince as he walked off. They stood a little ways away talking. But whatever the conversation was, it was over just as quickly as it began. She quickly looked away, not wanting to get caught and turned her attention to where Iroh was drinking his hot steaming tea happily.

Wait!

Hot?!

Steaming?!

A startled gasp fell from her lips, prompting Zuko to falter in his steps and follow her line of sight. His hand darted out to knock the cup of tea out of Iroh's hand. "Hey!" The old man protested even as his nephew leaned down to hiss at him through gritted teeth. "What're you doing firebending your tea?! For a wise old man, that was a pretty stupid move!"

"Honestly Master, that was reckless." Even Orora couldn't help but chime in. But Iroh wasn't listening to any of them, lamenting over his spilled tea. Orora glanced up toe Jet's retreating back. "He didn't see anything did he?" She spoke softly, dread filling her as she thought of what the boy might do should he discover that Zuko and Iroh were firebenders. "I don't think so. Besides, even if he did, he has no proof." Zuko stated firmly as a way of reassuring her as well as himself. The waterbender nodded, though there was a nervousness in her eyes that remained even as they boarded their train a few minutes later.

But then that all shifted to the very back of her mind as they exited the station and were greeted with their every first sight of Ba Sing Se. Eagerly looking out of the window, Orora couldn't help but stick her head out of the window and let out a little laugh of joy as the cool air brushed through her hair.

"I hope Ba Sing Se brings something new for us." She whispered to herself as she watched the scenic view pass by.

Beside her Zuko couldn't help but hope for the same.

————————–

Tag List - @wavesofchaos @violet-potter @rennysketch @emma-andrea1 @fuzzyfestcat

@msrawog

#zuko x y/n #zuko imagine #zuko x reader #zuko x oc #avatar the last airbender imagine #avatar the last airbender fanfiction #avatar #the thread of fate #avatar: the last airbender #avatar the last Airbender

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givemea-dam-break · 10 months ago

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heart's fury - prologue

book one: hope "prologue"

in which a story begins.

pairing: zuko x (fem) reader

a/n: hey guys! first part of my big zuko x reader, which was originally post on ao3 here! this is a brain baby created by my return to the atla fandom (first time properly being in the fandom since i first watched this as a child rip) and a need to write something for it which woooo! big moment since i had been in the biggest writing slump i've ever had before i wrote this. i hope you all enjoy the first part, and the following chapters, because i have so enjoyed writing this and continue to enjoy it! love u all <3

warnings: none

words: 838 heart's fury masterlist

There was something so idyllic about the southern seas in the early morning. The way the sun’s fiery light reflected atop the soft blue waves; the smell of salt and cold air mixing together; the distinctly freezing southern air that, somehow, could not permeate (y/n)’s thick jacket. She felt strangely warm standing at the bow of the ship, staring at the towering icebergs that the ship easily slipped between. She wondered how anything could become so large, so imposing, but she supposed it was part of the southern charm. The last she had heard, the Southern Water Tribe had dwindled in numbers. Fire Nation soldiers imprisoned their waterbenders decades ago and, though they were accustomed to the cold, not every child could survive in such extreme conditions. No outsiders, including the Fire Nation, had set foot in Southern Water Tribe territory in years. (y/n) could only imagine how sparse their population was. But they were persistent, these Southerners, like the icebergs. They had not let the Fire Nation get the best of them.

“What are you doing out at this time?” a voice asked from behind. “It is far too cold and early.”

“Catching some peace,” she said simply. “My gut is telling me that today is going to be different.”

A hand came to rest on the railing beside her, old and weathered and gentle, but still admirably strong. Connected to the hand was, well, perhaps the only Fire Nation nobility she had been able to tolerate in years.

General Iroh, now retired, had a kind face and a soft smile that she was sure would alone keep her warm if she had not been wearing her jacket. The crow’s feet at the corners of his eyes, the wrinkles in his forehead, and the deepness of his smile lines did not age him but, rather, did the opposite. He reminded her of a mischievous - yet remarkably wise - child; one that could not be trusted alone with a basket of sweet treats. He shivered in his red robes, but he kept a firm grip on the icy metal railing.

“And why do you say that?”

(y/n) turned her gaze back on the icy path ahead of them. She had always trusted her intuition, knowing that it was a better weapon than her knives or even her bending, but she often couldn’t explain the reasons why she felt things. Maybe it stemmed from her childhood, some sixth sense she had developed by guessing what her mother would make for breakfast or which way her father would take her on his ostrich-horse to get to the Royal Palace in the mornings. Perhaps it was some semblance of a spiritual connection - one of Iroh’s stories that had taken root and given her a strong mind.

She wasn’t sure what her answer to his question should be.

“Just a feeling,” she said. She always said.

It seemed to be enough to appease Iroh. “We are nearing the south pole. I fear that my nephew will be let down once more.”

It was a justified concern. The reason they both stood on this ship, thousands of miles away from home, was a fruitless hunt, bred from punishment, shame, and a terrible lust for honour and, ever a self-centred royal, Prince Zuko of the Fire Nation was determined to get what he wanted.

The Avatar.

Two and a half years the three, and a handful of Fire Nation soldiers, had been hunting the living legend down. It was a futile search - Fire Lord Ozai was aware of this when he had banished his son - but Prince Zuko was adamant. He had ordered them around the world in search of a man who had not been seen in a hundred years, and thrown a princely fit every time they did not find him.

Iroh was right to worry. Prince Zuko’s sole ambition was to find the Avatar and restore his honour, taking back his rightful place as heir to the title of Fire Lord, but it made one wonder what would happen if he were to accept that the Avatar was unreachable.

Not that he would ever accept it.

“This isn’t the right path for him,” Iroh murmured. Despite there being nobody else on deck, he kept his voice low, leaning closer. “Capturing the Avatar is not the correct decision.”

He cast her a meaningful look, something in the wise, dark eyes sparkling as he turned and walked away, likely to make himself a cup of tea.

(y/n) breathed a sigh, watching the misty breath hover in front of her before dissipating. This was not the first time Iroh had hinted at the secret she kept close to her chest, clutched in iron fingers. If anyone else were to know, she would likely be dead by now. But Iroh shared her cause.

If they ever found the Avatar, wherever they were, she would fight tooth and nail to ensure Prince Zuko could never take them back to the Fire Nation.

<-masterlist chapter one ->

#givemea-dam-break #zuko x reader #prince zuko x reader #atla x reader #avatar the last airbender x reader #prince zuko #zuko #atla zuko #zuko fanfiction #atla zuko fanfiction #atla fanfiction #avatar the last airbender fanfiction #avatar the last airbender #x reader #fanfiction

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king-bumis-armpit · 5 months ago

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A Dirty Chai and a Black Tea with Cardamom, Part 2

A Maiko Modern AU

Summary: Aang, Katara, and Iroh have all decided that Mai and Zuko should be together. But will Mai and Zuko be able to overcome their own insecurities and pursue a relationship?

Link to Part 1 here.

Author’s note: I wrote the last section of this in a coffee shop and someone ordered a dirty chai. I think it’s a sign that this fic is approved by the universe XD XD

As I said in the last chapter, this idea was gifted to me by the absolutely amazing @cowpoopies ! Thank you again!! And– again– thank you to whoever’s reading this. Lurkers, likers, commenters, I love you all and I hope you have an awesome day <3

This one is a bit more unhinged than the previous installment I think. It’s super long for no reason and I fear it may be more ooc and self-indulgent than I originally intended. But I had a good time, so I won’t apologize, lol. I hope you all enjoy it regardless. <3 <3

TW: Curse words.

WC: 5,809

The tea shop was nestled serenely between the neighboring businesses, neither of which were open at this hour. Cars drove by occasionally, but the only other sound in the building was the hum of electricity through the many appliances. The green tables reflected onto the walls, creating a soothing effect.

Despite the calm, Zuko despised early morning shifts. He would never understand how Sokka managed to be so alive and cheerful at that hour of the day or what Uncle saw as the benefit of early rising. Yearning to walk up to his apartment and crawl back into bed, he slumped into the seat by the register and let his head rest on his palm. The ritual was almost meditative at this point, but that didn’t mean he enjoyed it.

The bells on the door jingled, and pulled him back from the brink of slumber. Mai walked in with her friend, and Zuko straightened. His morning was instantly improved. He just hoped she didn’t catch him dozing off again.

The friend– Ly Chee or something– stopped to admire one of the pictures on the wall, and Mai approached the counter. She bit her lip, almost nervously, and Zuko suddenly became very aware that he was looking at her mouth. “Hey,” she greeted him. “Can you make me a black tea with cardamom, again?”

Zuko felt giddy. “Of course, you liked it?”

Mai blushed. “I didn’t hate it.”

As she handed him her credit card, Zuko asked, “How’d the exam go?”

“I think it went really well. You’ll have to help me with my final too.” Mai gave a small smirk and shot him a wink. Zuko’s heart beat faster. Maybe Katara and Aang were right. He did have a chance!

Sokka materialized, drink in hand, and said, “Here you go, lovely lady.” Zuko frowned. He must have made the drink while Mai paid. It really wasn’t a big deal, but–

Mai sighed. Zuko went rigid. “Is something wrong?” he asked.

“It’s stupid. I was actually kind of hoping you would make it for me.” Her eyes met Zuko’s, and he was transfixed. She extended the cup to him, and he folded his hands around hers. “Will you take this back, and make me one of yours?”

He felt sparks where their skin met. “Baby, I’d brew your tea every day for the rest of our lives.”

“Really?” Mai gave him a rare smile and leaned across the counter. She was going to kiss him! Zuko closed his eyes, and leaned forward.

And forward.

And forward, until he was falling. His face collided with the counter with a resounding bang. Uncle rushed out of the back room.

“Nephew! Are you okay?”

Zuko looked up, dazed. There was no Mai. Or Ly Chee. Or Sokka. It was just him and the old man. He pinched the bridge of his nose. It was sore but nothing felt broken, and he’d gotten in enough fights as a teen to know. “I’m fine. I just… dozed off.”

Iroh sighed and examined his face. “I know I don’t normally advocate for this, but maybe you should have a coffee to wake yourself up today.”

Zuko nodded. “I think maybe I should.” Uncle clasped a hand on his shoulder in a silent gesture of affection before returning to the back room. Zuko actually decided to make himself a chai with a shot of espresso. It was what Mai had ordered for himself on her first visit, and he’d never tried one.

She stopped by the shop almost daily now, sometimes with her friend, but she never lingered. Sokka would occasionally make small talk with her, in a way that Zuko envied but couldn’t quite replicate. His attempts always felt stilted and awkward. He knew that it was ridiculous to feel jealous of those mundane interactions when he hardly knew Mai, but he felt drawn to her. It had been a long time, maybe since Jet, that he had crushed so hard. A small dark part of him hoped that Mai was already in a relationship, so that he wouldn’t have to open himself up to potential rejection.

He was so lost in thought and the making of his own drink, that he missed it when Mai actually walked in. She was standing by the register, observing him, when he finally noticed her.

“Oh! Mai, sorry, I didn’t see you.” He rushed over, but her face didn’t change. He would pay any amount of money for a window into her thoughts just then.

“No problem. I was debating what I should order.” She brushed a lock of dark hair behind her ear, and Zuko realized he hadn’t seen her with her hair down before. As expected, it looked really good.

“Well, you already know my favorite thing on the menu,” Zuko replied. Then he remembered his dream and felt a blush tint his skin. He prayed it wasn’t noticeable.

“That’s right, but I never found out your Uncle’s.” She smiled teasingly. “I’m guessing Jasmine.”

Zuko’s jaw dropped. “How’d you know?”

Mai blinked, like she didn’t know what to say. “Are you… kidding? Your shop is called The Jasmine Dragon.”

At that moment, Zuko wouldn’t have minded if a chasm opened up beneath him and reclaimed him for the earth. The shop had always been called The Jasmine Dragon for as long as he was alive. He knew logically that his Uncle was the founder, but he had never pondered the implications before. His cheeks were now burning with twice the intensity and he knew it was definitely visible.

“I’d… never thought about it,” he croaked out.

Mai laughed, and– even though it was at his expense– it helped ease the tension in his chest. As far as he could recall, Sokka had never made Mai laugh.

“Well, in honor of your Uncle, I’ll take a Jasmine tea.” Mai pulled out her wallet and Zuko rang her up.

“Are you sure that will be enough caffeine to keep you going? We use a green tea base.” Zuko teased. Normally Mai ordered black tea or coffee, and she often added espresso shots.

“It should be fine,” Mai replied. “My midterms are finally over so I’ve actually been getting sleep. What about you? Do you have any exams left?”

“Nope, a lot of my professors went with papers or projects this year instead, but I turned in my last one yesterday. So I’m really looking forward to going out this weekend.” Zuko decided to do some reconnaissance. Katara felt confident that Mai was single since she hadn’t mentioned anyone, but Zuko wanted to be sure. “Aang and Katara are really chill, so I’m sure they wouldn’t mind if you wanted to bring someone.”

Mai rubbed her arm, “Oh, well… Ty Lee is going out with her new girlfriend this weekend.”

Zuko looked at her blankly until he realized that Ty Lee was Ly Chee’s real name. Then, he smiled, “I see. Is that why you’ve been flying solo? She doesn’t need to stare at Sokka for eye candy anymore.”

Mai’s eyes widened. “You all knew about her crush? I’m so embarrassed.” She ran a hand through her hair and Zuko tried not to be mesmerized.

He chuckled. “We didn’t know for sure, but Toph had a hunch. And for the record, I don’t think it’s embarrassing. Maybe a bit for Ty Lee, but not for you. You were just a bystander.”

Mai shook her head. “Toph’s hunches are always right. Anyway, I hope you're not expecting me to stop coming in. I’m officially hooked.”

Mai was never this talkative, and it filled Zuko with confidence. Maybe he could borrow a line from his subconscious. “I’ll brew your tea any day. You’re way more interesting than most of our customers.”

It was Mai’s turn to blush. “I– oh– thank you.”

And then Zuko realized he had not, in fact, started brewing her tea. As he fetched the tea leaves, he kept up his conversation with Mai. “How was Philosophy of Law?”

Mai sighed. “It was just as awful as expected. But I think I did okay. Jeong Jeong takes forever to post his grades so God only knows.”

Zuko hummed sympathetically. His concentration was on pouring hot water into the small personal kettle. Mai leaned over the counter, and watched with interest. “I’m impressed. I was lowkey expecting a tea bag.”

Zuko laughed. “Oh no! Uncle prefers loose leaf. He’s also especially particular with Jasmine, since flowers are involved. And don’t get him started on brewing times. When you hand people a to-go cup with a tea bag, they leave it in there all day. If you over-steep, it gets bitter and–” Zuko stopped. “I sound like him, don’t I?”

Mai smiled. “You really do. But that’s not a bad thing. There are worse people to emulate.”

Zuko smiled and went to grab a paper cup for the tea. The store had a few different branded designs, but he always gave Mai the red dragon one, since it was his favorite. Soon enough, the tea was done steeping and he poured it and snapped the lid into place. When he turned back to Mai she was fiddling with a small piece of paper.

“Here you are,” he extended the cup and she offered him the paper in exchange.

“Thanks. Umm. I thought you should have my number. In case anything comes up before we hang out on Saturday.”

Zuko accepted the paper and forced his voice to stay casual. “Thanks. You’ll have to let me know how you like the tea.”

“Of course.” Maybe he was imagining it, but Mai’s cheeks seemed pink as she made her way to the door.

Against his better judgment, Zuko felt hopeful.

— —

Zuko: Zuko here :)

Mai: Hey. I liked the jasmine

Black w/ cardamom was better though

Zuko: Yes! I can’t wait to tell Uncle

He’ll say I brewed it wrong, but that’s bs

Mai: Don’t get too big of a head. He’s still my fav barista

Wait, actually it’s Sokka, lol

Zuko: -_-

Talk about a big head. Don’t tell him you said that

Mai: Jk jk. You’re pretty cool ig

You did help me get an A on a JJ exam

Zuko: NO WAY

The grades are in? Congrats!

Mai: It’s all thanks to you and Katara. Seriously.

Zuko: I’m always happy to help

You know where to find me

— —

Mai leaned against the wall of her dorm, waiting for Aang to pick her up. He offered to be the designated driver for the evening. Mai wasn’t going to drink, but she was more than happy to not have to deal with parking in the city.

She wondered if Zuko would be riding with them. Oh Zuko. She’d thought about him much more than was normal to think about your barista/tutor. She read and re-read their text exchanges, looking for evidence of flirting. Every time he messaged her, Ty Lee could immediately tell from her face, which was not good. Mai and Ty Lee had known each other since childhood, and yet the other girl had never known what she was thinking. Until now.

And Mai, who considered herself decent at reading people, had no idea where to begin with Zuko. Most days when she went to the shop, Sokka and Uncle Iroh were the talkative ones. On the day she gave Zuko her number, he seemed much more open. But he had also asked her if she wanted to bring another person to the hangout, and that could only mean Ty Lee. Mai couldn’t shake the feeling he had a crush on the pretty gymnast.

Then again, he seemed to know about her feelings for Sokka. And he called Mai interesting. And offered to brew her tea anytime.

But brewing tea was his job. He was constantly offering to brew people tea. And what if he saw Mai as an opportunity to get closer to Ty Lee? It wouldn’t be the first time, but normally Mai could sense such buffoonery before the guy even opened his mouth. Maybe Zuko's hotness was blinding her to his ill intent.

She was over-thinking in circles. Maybe Zuko was normal and didn’t like anyone in particular. Or maybe he had a partner.

Mai ran a hand along the brick building. A memory came to her mind, unbidden. Her and her parents here at accepted students weekend. Her mom pulling her aside. Giving her one of her talks.

“Mai, you really should be making more of an effort to smile. You’ll catch more flies with honey than vinegar.”

Mai rolled her eyes. “You made me change out of my skirt this morning because it was too short. I thought I wasn't supposed to be catching flies.”

Michi stood imperiously, not even glancing in her daughter's direction as she spoke. “You don't want that kind of a man, darling. You want a husband.”

Mai wanted neither in that moment, and couldn’t quite tell the difference between the two. “I’m going to this university for a reason. So I won't need a husband.”

Michi arched her brow. “This is not the caliber of institution your father and I imagined for you.” Mai knew that well. It was part of the appeal. “Besides, you said you want to study philosophy? You’ll need a husband.” With that, Michi decided the conversation was over and went to walk through the dorm open house.

Mai contemplated staying at the side of the building and moping, but that would only hurt her and not her mother. She could point out that Political Science would be her primary major, and philosophy her secondary course of study. But her mother wouldn't remember no matter how many times she said it. Mai sighed. She donned disinterest and trailed after her parents at a distance.

Here she still was. A college sophomore with a decent GPA, one close friend, and no self-esteem. She didn’t want a husband, but she wanted… something. Something that she had lacked in her previous relationship with Kei Lo. And she didn’t know how to untangle those desires from the pre-programmed path her parents wanted her to follow.

Aang’s car pulled up– just five minutes shy of saving her from an existential crisis– and Mai saw Katara in the passenger seat and Zuko in the back. The thought of sitting next to him now made her slightly nauseous, but she had decided to be social today.

She composed herself and marched to the car. Aang greeted her as she sat and clicked her seatbelt. “Hey! It’s really nice to see you again.”

“Oh, yeah. It’s really nice to see you too. Thanks for inviting me out.”

Aang gave her a winning smile. “Don’t even mention it.” He knocked on the dash twice. “Yip yip!”

Mai opened her mouth to ask, but Katara explained: “It’s for good luck. Aang’s car is like a hundred years old, so it breaks down sometimes. I’ve been telling him to just get a new one–”

“Aww,” Aang cooed. “Don’t listen to her, buddy. I’d never replace you.”

Mai found herself somewhat taken in by the bald man. He was quirky, but in a charming way. She could see why Katara liked him.

Zuko cleared his throat from the seat beside her. “Umm… hi. Uncle wanted me to give you this.” He extended a hand and offered her a small paper.

Mai noticed it was a voucher for a free drink. “What’s the occasion?”

“Oh!” Zuko scratched the back of his neck. “I might have mentioned that you got an A on the exam and he said you should celebrate.”

Mai accepted the paper hesitantly. “Aren’t we… celebrating now? With dinner?” Zuko shrugged. “Okay, well, thanks.”

Mai didn’t want to appear ungrateful, but now that the exam was over it didn’t seem so monumental. Maybe Zuko did like her after all and it was an excuse to get her to come back to the shop! No, that was reading too much into it. Besides, she went to the shop everyday now, so his uncle was probably just being kind to a loyal customer. Her crush was clouding her mind an almost concerning amount. Maybe she should take a break from seeing Zuko after this.

Silence filled the car for just long enough to be awkward, and Aang turned on the radio for the rest of the ride.

They had settled on a Mexican restaurant that Aang and his friends apparently went to quite a bit. The server recognized the group, and led them to a booth in the back.The location was quieter than the tables, but it was directly under a vent. Mai cursed herself for not bringing a jacket. Aang and Katara sat together, naturally, which left Mai next to Zuko. She was hyper aware of his proximity, but not unpleasantly so. In fact, with the chill she wished she could slide closer.

The server took their orders almost immediately since everyone else knew the menu. Mai– not wanting to make everyone wait– copied Zuko’s order and hoped for the best. And there were chips and salsa if Zuko secretly had terrible taste.

Aang piped up, “You’re in your second year, right Mai?”

“Yeah. Same as Katara,” she replied. “What year are you?”

“I’m a Freshman.”

Mai was surprised. She could have sworn she’d seen Aang around last year. “Does that mean you all just met in the fall?”

“Oh no,” Katara said, leaning into Aang’s side casually. He wrapped an arm around her, smiling. Mai felt her singleness acutely. “Aang went to high school with Sokka, and I. And he’s been living with us for a few years.”

“And Sokka’s a junior?” Mai asked.

“Sokka and I are both juniors,” Zuko explained. “I met everyone when he started working at the shop.”

Mai nodded, trying to absorb all the new information.

“How did you meet Ty Lee?” Aang asked.

Mai took a moment to consider the question. “I honestly don’t remember. Our parents were friends, so we’ve known each other since we were really little.”

“Aww! And after all this time you’re still friends and you decided to go to the same college? That’s really sweet,” Katara said.

Mai hummed noncommittally. “I’m glad Ty Lee decided to stay close but I think the reason she chose to go where I wanted is because she doesn’t care about college at all. If she had her way, she’d run off and join the circus.” Aang laughed, but Mai’s expression remained unchanged. “I’m serious. When we were little we made this whole plan. She would be an acrobat, and I would be a knife thrower.”

“That makes sense since Ty Lee’s into gymnastics. But why did you choose knife-throwing?” Katara asked.

“What do you mean?” Zuko interrupted. “Knife-throwing is like the most badass part of the circus. What else would she do? Juggle?”

Mai laughed. “No, Katara’s right. I actually do have a reason. I’ve been taking knife-throwing lessons since I was seven.”

Everyone at the table stared at her, until Zuko burst out: “That’s so fucking cool!”

Katara agreed, “That’s– like– amazing, can you teach me?”

“Wait a minute,” Aang held up his hand. “That’s awesome, but why did you start taking knife-throwing lessons?” Zuko made to speak and Aang pointed at him, “Other than generally badassery.”

Mai blushed. She was always slightly embarrassed to tell this part of the story. “I loved this comic series as a kid, and the main female character was a knife thrower. I hated school, so my parents made a deal with me that if I got good grades I could keep going to my knife-throwing lessons.”

“Hang on,” Zuko grabbed her arm. “Are you talking about Nanami from The Adventures of Piandao?”

“Yes, wait, you know the series?” Mai asked.

Zuko smiled. “It was my favorite as a kid! My sister and I used to have fake sword fights all the time. But nobody I’ve met has ever read it.”

Mai sympathized. “I know! I tried for ages to make Ty Lee read the first volume but she never would. I think it’s the art style. I should check it out from the library and give it a re-read.”

Zuko looked smug, and Mai raised an eyebrow. “What if I told you that I had the whole collection and you could borrow whichever ones you want?”

“Then maybe you would be my favorite barista,” Mai smirked.

Zuko rolled his eyes. “Nevermind,” he teased. “Anyway, I think you should start your reread with the blue spirit arc. It’s the best one.”

“You have got to be joking!” Mai noticed that Katara and Aang had grown bored of the conversation and were having their own. “Nanami is the best character and so the best arc is the Lady of a Thousand Blades, where she’s introduced.”

“But she has that whole fight scene with the blue spirit!”

Mai rolled her eyes. “Yeah, and he wins because her dart holsters jam. Then, Piandao has to rescue her. Like that would ever happen. The author is a coward and a misogynist.”

“Oooooooooor she actually lost because her focus was compromised…”

Mai groaned. “You ship the Blue Spirit and Nanami? Who even are you?”

Zuko’s jaw dropped. “What do you mean? Of course I ship the masked vigilante and the knife-throwing warrior. They would be such a power couple.”

“This is why Sokka–”

“If you say Sokka’s your favorite barista again I’m gonna scream.”

Mai laughed. “I overplayed the joke? I’m sorry.” She felt a cold rush of air from the vent and shivered.

“Are you cold?” Zuko asked, sounding slightly concerned.

She rubbed her arms. “It’s fine, I just normally wear long sleeves.”

Zuko took off his zip hoodie and extended it to her. “Here, take this.”

Mai accepted it, but made no move to put it on. The fabric was softer than she had imagined, and still radiated Zuko’s warmth. “Are you sure?” she asked. The gesture felt momentous somehow.

“Of course,” Zuko assured her. “I run hot.”

“Oh really?” she deadpanned. “I’d like to see that.”

Zuko nudged her lightly. “Shut up and accept my kindness.”

Mai snorted. “You are a true gentleman. I can see the influence of Master Piandao within you.” She slid the hoodie on. Their food arrived shortly after. While Zuko was distracted, Mai discreetly inhaled the scent of the garment. It smelled a little bit like the tea shop, a little bit like the library, and strongly of Irish Spring soap. She liked it. A lot.

— —

Mai: I still have your hoodie

Zuko: That’s okay. I have others

You can bring it to the shop sometime

Mai: Ok. I’ll probably come in later today

I can’t study without tea now

Zuko: If you need a break from studying, you can borrow a Piandao comic

I’m not working today, but I’ll be in the building

Mai: I don’t want to bother you on your day off

Zuko: You’re not a bother. You’re my friend

Mai: I’m friends with a Blue Spirit x Nanami shipper :0

Zuko: Guess so :P

I only lend books to friends

Mai: Valid. Acquaintances can’t be trusted

Anyway, I think I’ll take you up on your offer

Zuko: Great! Text me when you get here

— —

Zuko paced his room, occasionally reorganizing the knick-knacks on his desk. Yesterday’s “double-date” had gone better than he imagined. Mainly because he kept imagining worst-case scenarios. But thankfully, none of them had come to fruition. Instead, he and Mai had talked the whole night, about their favorite comic series, their shared major, awful professor stories, and favorite foods. He fell asleep replaying the conversations in his head.

He needed to ask her out soon, before he lost his nerve.

And it seemed would get his opportunity when she came for the comic.

He scanned his room for the nth time, hoping that it looked presentable. He kept the space neat, but it was fairly small. When he leaned back far enough in his desk chair, he hit the edge of his bed. On the wall in between the two, he wedged a secondhand bookcase, home of the aforementioned comics and his other favorites. He purposely stored his school books in a bin at the bottom of his cramped closet so he wouldn’t have to look at them unless he needed to.

He used to have a much larger room when he lived with his father, but… well… this was preferable by far. He had some family pictures on a shelf above his desk but none of them featured that man.

His phone buzzed.

Mai: I’m here

Save me. Sokka’s making a joke about boomerangs

Zuko laughed, and made his way down the stairs and through the back room. By the time he arrived on the scene, however, Mai was speaking with Uncle instead of Sokka.

“-- and he had the cutest little fascination with ducks. He used to beg me to take him to the park to feed them. He named them all too!”

She laughed demurely, and Zuko’s cheeks flamed.

“UNCLE!” he ran up to them. “Do you have to tell everyone that story?”

“What?” Uncle put on his best impression of innocence. “I think it’s cute.”

“That’s not–” Zuko’s voice cracked. “That’s not the point.”

Mai, still smiling, came to the old man’s defense. “It is kind of cute.” Zuko noticed she was holding his hoodie with both arms crossed around it in a form of embrace.

“I-I guess so, yeah,” He found himself agreeing impotently.

Uncle chuckled. “You two have fun!” Zuko could see the gleam of mischief in the tea-maker’s eye. If embarrassment were lethal, he would be in critical condition.

He escorted Mai behind the counter and back to the safety of his room. “Sorry about Uncle. He’s…”

“He’s lovely,” Mai cut in. “You don’t have to apologize.” Zuko felt himself fall a little bit harder.

Mai took in the small room for a rather long time, expression impassive, and Zuko worried that it had failed her test. She looked at him with expectation, and he realized she was waiting for him to take the lead. “Feel free to sit anywhere.” He gestured awkwardly at the chair and the bed. She opted for the chair, so he sat criss-cross on his sheets.

She tossed his hoodie at him and it landed in his lap. “Thanks for letting me borrow that.”

He recalled how she looked wearing it, and he swallowed. “Oh, yeah, anytime.”

She swiveled the chair to face the bookcase. “So this is your collection? I’m jealous.”

Zuko smiled, “Well, I’m giving you unrestricted access, so don’t knife me down.”

Mai chuckled. “I’m pretty sure the term is stabbing. And I don’t stab my friends.”

“Good policy.” Zuko watched her run her fingers over the spines before choosing a volume to flip through. He had referred to them as friends earlier in the day, but the word felt like an obstacle now.

Mai turned her scrutiny to the shelf above the comics, and Zuko bit his lip. It felt strangely intimate to be sharing the contents of his personal library so openly. Mai selected one and Zuko recognized it immediately as Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson. “Did you read this for Prof. Pakku’s Mass Incarceration class?”

“No, actually,” he replied. “I read it in high school. It’s actually part of the reason I chose to study political science.”

Mai nodded. “It’s very inspiring. Do you want to work as a defense attorney?”

“I think so. I’ve always thought about going into law because my dad is a lawyer. But when I read this book, I realized that he has never once used the power he has to help people.” Zuko could taste the bitterness in his own voice. His scar itched. “When I discovered that there was a different way of doing things, it kind of frightened me at first. I truly didn’t know that kindness was an option. God, that probably sounds so fucked up.” He winced and looked away.

But Mai reached out and rested a hand on his shoulder. “No… it’s more relatable than you think.” Her touch was light and she removed her hand too soon.

As she put the book back on the shelf, Zuko cleared his throat. “Anyway, why did you choose poli sci and philosophy?”

She sighed. “Honestly, my high school guidance counselor told me I had an aptitude for philosophy. And political science sounded like the kind of thing that my parents would approve of.” She rested her chin in her hand, and she looked like the sculpture by Rodin. “I know it’s callous, but my parents are more into image than impact.”

Zuko shook his head. “I promise you, I understand that completely. But maybe we can do something better, right? Ever since moving in with my uncle, I’ve seen the amount of good that actually exists in the world.”

Mai smiled. “You sound like a hero. Seriously, you sound like you could be in a Piandao comic or something. I think you, and Katara, and Aang are all going to do amazing things one day.”

“What about you?” he asked.

Her expression returned to calculated calm. “I’ll probably be drinking tea somewhere.”

“All right then.” He nudged her foot with his own. “I’ll brew your tea while you write groundbreaking legislation… or philosophical treaties.”

Mai chuckled, and reached for another comic.

— —

Ty Lee: Are you still alive?

Mai: Yes?

Ty Lee: Again, but with confidence

Mai: Yes! I’m alive

Ty Lee: Good

I was starting to think Zuko murdered you

Do you even know what time it is?

Mai: Oh shit

I actually didn’t

Leaving soon

Ty Lee: Take your time ;)

— —

Mai swore that time passed differently in Zuko’s room. She felt like she was only there for an hour at most but she checked her phone and realized it was 8:30 and the tea shop was closed for the day. So much for her homework.

Her conversation with Zuko about the future had deeply affected her. He and his friends had such a passion for the world. It was a skill she was only just learning about for herself. A dull blade in her arsenal. For so long, she had walked through life with numbness and composure, believing it was enough.

She didn’t want that anymore. Could she do something useful? Like write ground-breaking legislation?

Maybe being around Zuko and his friends would… help.

Zuko let her choose a few of her favorite Piandao volumes, and before they went downstairs he tried to offer her his hoodie once more. “It’s probably cold outside now that the sun is setting.”

She’d been lying if she said she wasn’t tempted. “Doesn’t that defeat the purpose of my returning it today?”

Zuko shrugged. “You can just bring it back with the books. Like I said, I have others.”

Mai accepted it after some consideration. “I’m starting to think you just like seeing me.”

“Yeah, yeah, come on,” Zuko blustered as he led her down the stairs and out into the empty shop. Iroh was the only person who remained, as cleaned the machines and tidied up for the night.

Mai paused at the counter. “Thank you for inviting me over. I’ll see you both soon.”

“Of course, enjoy the comics–”

“Wait!” Uncle Iroh held up a hand. Mai jumped, not expecting an outburst from the sweet old man. “Aren't you going to walk her home, Zuko?”

Zuko’s face reddened. “I– Umm– Well– Uh–”

Mai came to his rescue. The poor guy had just spent all day with her, and he was probably done. “That’s okay. I’m trained in self-defense, I don’t need an escort.”

Iroh nodded, “That’s great! I’m glad my nephew will be safe with you. But honestly, I wasn’t thinking about practicality.”

Mai tilted her head in confusion, and she was going to ask what he meant when Zuko sprang into action. He grabbed her hand and led her to the door. They moved so quickly that the familiar tables became a green blur. “You’re right, Uncle, we’ll be going now.” The bells rang loudly as he swung the door open and let it slam behind them.

He marched her out of the shop and all the way to the end of the street before releasing her hand. He looked away and scratched the back of his neck. “I’m sorry about that. Uncle, isn’t exactly… subtle.”

Mai pulled Zuko’s hoodie tightly around herself. It was cold and Mai was glad she accepted it once more. “Don’t mention it. And you don’t have to walk me all the way to my dorm. I know it’s late and you probably don’t want to be out here in the cold…” She caught herself rambling, an unfortunate habit that she believed to be a relic of her youth.

Zuko looked at her and narrowed his eyes. “Do you really not know?”

“About what?”

He took a deep breath, like he was steeling himself for something. “I like you.” Mai blinked. “I have a crush on you.” Mai blinked again. “But, uh, you probably don’t feel the same way and I totally get that. You can keep the books and the hoodie and I can get you the schedule for when I work so you can avoid me but still go to the shop–”

Mai snapped out of it. “I like you too.”

“Really?” Zuko asked in a small voice. Beautiful Zuko. The hot barista. The brilliant upperclassman. The boy who wanted to change the world. He liked her. And he was looking at her with such joy on his face.

Mai felt giddy. She laughed. “Yes, of course.”

“Wow,” Zuko breathed. “You're so cool, and so hot, and so smart. I thought I never stood a chance.”

“Shut up and kiss me right now.”

He obliged, caressing her cheek and leaning in. It was awkward at first. Mai’s hands were full of books, and Zuko’s nose brushed against hers. But when their lips fit together, it felt right. It tasted like black tea, and espresso, and the spices in chai.

They pulled apart, reluctant and shy once more. Zuko, still leaning close, whispered, “You’re just so out of my league. How do you not see that?”

Mai felt her pulse flutter. “Hey, that line only works once.” Zuko blushed and Mai laughed. “Besides, don’t sell yourself short. You’re really kind to your uncle and you’re good with school. And, as I said, you’ll be a hero one day,” she teased him lightly.

Zuko smiled at her. “Oh please. If anything, I’m your sidekick. The butler to your Piandao.”

Mai laughed. “Okay then. How about we ride off into the sunset now?”

Zuko wrapped an arm around her shoulder. “Gladly.”

#atla maiko #maiko #zumai #mai x zuko #avatar the last airbender #atla #atla mai #mai #zuko #atla zuko #atla fanfic #atla modern au #background kataang

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ao3feed-zukka · 9 months ago

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i'd give you the sun if you asked me you could have all the time

Read now on Ao3 at https://ift.tt/fR7Aw3a by bazingah What if Zuko asked Katara and Sokka with help rescuing Aang from Zhao? And what if Sokka went with him? Maybe a conversation will occur (and Aang would be oblivious) ------------------------------------------ (title from j's lullaby (darlin', i'd wait for you) - delaney bailey I hope you enjoy! Words: 3046, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English Fandoms: Avatar: The Last Airbender Rating: General Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Categories: M/M Characters: Zuko (Avatar), Sokka (Avatar), Ozai (Avatar), Aang (Avatar), Katara (Avatar), Iroh (Avatar), The Gaang (Avatar), Zhao (Avatar), Suki (Avatar) Relationships: Sokka/Zuko (Avatar), Aang & Sokka (Avatar), Aang & Zuko (Avatar), Aang/Katara (Avatar), Katara & Sokka (Avatar), Iroh & Zuko (Avatar), Ozai & Zuko (Avatar) Additional Tags: Hurt Zuko (Avatar), Zuko's Scar (Avatar), zukka - Freeform, Protective Sokka (Avatar), POV Sokka (Avatar), Big Brother Sokka (Avatar), Stubborn Katara (Avatar), Aang is a Ray of Sunshine (Avatar), Zuko Needs Therapy (Avatar), Sokka goes with Zuko to rescue Aang, Zuko (Avatar) Needs a Hug, Fire Nation (Avatar), Fire Nation Royal Family, Agni Kai (Avatar), Bad Parent Ozai (Avatar), Ozai Being an Asshole (Avatar), Mentioned Ozai (Avatar), Iroh is a Good Uncle (Avatar), Protective Iroh (Avatar), Aang is captured, zhao is an asshole, i hate zhao, Angst, Fluff and Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Koh doesn't exist, Katara and Sokka never got trapped in the spirit world, Zuko Joins The Gaang Early (Avatar), Zuko is an Awkward Turtleduck, Zuko is Bad at Feelings (Avatar), Kyoshi Island, Mentioned Suki (Avatar) Read it on Ao3 at https://ift.tt/fR7Aw3a

#IFTTT #zukka #sokka #zuko #avatar: the last airbender #atla #ao3 feed

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biconickyoshi · 9 months ago

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Duuudeee I legit read your fic in like, two days ( I had to give in to sleep eventually) and it was so so good!! I love the amount of care you put into making the characters feel as close to canon as possible, and my gosh having Iroh in the Gaang healed me a bit bc it's nice that they have an actual adult with them to help them out,,, the old man just has too many secrets up his sleeve </33 Loved this so much it completely satiated my curiosity for the zukaang ship, i've always been avoiding most of the fics just because it's too ooc and also it's just straight up nsfw lol

Can't wait for the next chapter, hope you're doing well and thanks again!! Love your art :D

Omg thank you so much for reading, anon!!! It makes me so happy to hear how many people have been binging it recently, especially bc of just how long it is now (and we're literally about only halfway through the entire fic at this point lmao). I love that you guys are enjoying it that much!!!

And I'm also glad to hear you like Iroh being with the Gaang! Even though he's the only adult there, I still try to make sure that he allows the kids to have agency - like he's not a strict parent to them, he's a nice comforting familial figure that everyone can go to for emotional support lol. Also being the only adult does not mean he's the most mature by any means. He's just a goofy old guy (who has also committed some war crimes) :)

Funnily enough, I actually didn't even consider shipping Zukaang until 2021 when I started thinking about all of their parallels and intertwined destinies one day, and I basically thought "huh, if they were closer in age this would literally be one of the most iconic ships of all time". So I decided to write my own version of the story where that is exactly the case lol. But even in general, I am kinda surprised it's not a more popular ship - like their age gap isn't a problem at all once they're both adults (4 years is literally the age gap of me and my husband at ages 26 and 30), and there's a lot of potential for exploration in settings like my AU where they're only a year or two apart.

Also BTW (if you haven't read it already lol), I just posted a new chapter last night! :) Thanks so much for the kind ask, and I hope you have a lovely day!

#asks #my fic #the avatar and the fire prince #taatfp #zukaang #zuko x aang #aang x zuko #atla fanfic #atla #avatar the last airbender #aang #zuko

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jubilantmedusa · 2 months ago

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Hi! I just wanted to say that I really like your fics <3 I re-read your latest Zukka one 3 times. Do you plan to write any more soon? What type of ideas do you have? I hope I don't sound pushy I'm just curious!

Aww, so glad you enjoyed it :)

I doesn't take much to get me to talk about ideas and WIPs so here you go!

I'm not sure how soon any of this will get done, just because life is very busy right now (which is the reason I've been focusing on short stuff - I prefer medium/long, but short is more achivable right now; and it is a fun challenge to stick to a word limit).

Actively working on:

Zukka HC Sketch + Fic: I have two other Zukka H/C-ish sketches that I need to write stories for. They should be a little less angsty then the last one, in theory, but still have some H/C element. Waiting for inspiration to strike. (1 - 1.5k each goal). I might do more of these, or I might switch to a non-H/C sketch/fic focus. Or I might stop when those two are done. IDK. Whatever's fun.

Iroh and Zuko Post "The Desert" Whump AU: Zuko and Iroh’s escape from "The Desert" is intercepted by an enemy who quickly surmises that the most effective way to torture Iroh is to torture Zuko. With Iroh literally losing his mind, can Zuko (who is not doing well) save his uncle and himself? (currently at 4k; estimated 12 - 16k)

If I can finish the above by the end of the year I'll be pleased.

Ideas that I really want to do and have at least done *some* pre-writing for:

Iroh's Second Spirit World Journey: An Iroh centric story that diverges after "The Earth King." When Zuko never wakes up from his angst coma, Iroh goes literally beyond the ends of the earth to try to save him (aka - Iroh's second spirit world journey). Could have a sequal (or even be a trilogy, potentially), but not required. I really want to write this but I'm not sure if it would have an audience. Estimate: long, over 25k

Escaping the Desert: Another "The Desert" divergence story - Zuko and Iroh are captured by the Rough Rhinoes. Unfortunately, so is Toph. Zuko will do anything to save his uncle, but what about the strange blind girl who was with the avatar? Estimate 15 - 25k. The problem with this one is it would more or less require a trilogy... but if I can keep all the stories to around 10-15k that may be achievable.

Zukka Iron Lung: There is a plague that only effect firebenders. This spurs the invention of the iron lung -- Sokka is one of the lead engineers. When Sokka goes to the Fire Nation to Save the Day, he catches feelings for the Fire Lord. Unfortunately, Zuko then catches the plague. Length TBD.

Zukka Post Series romance: Zuko was injured/disabled before the finale and never took the throne. Sokka hasn't spoke to him since. He has, however, developed PTSD. With his life seemingly falling apart. Sokka decides to run away and go to university at Ba Sing Se. He stops for tea at the Jasmine Dragon, which is now run by, you guessed it, Zuko. Angst and romance ensures. Bonus airbender field trip. Length TBD.

Ice Demon / Waterbender Hospital - This is something I'm not sure anyone would be interested in except me, but I do like medical whump. I've done some light worldbuilding for a waterbender hospital, and have a vague idea of sending Zuko there when he's attacked by an Ice spirit. For some reason. Maybe involving Aang and his quest to master the avatar state? or maybe not, because that would be a lot of story. Lots of more to develop here. Could be gen or Zukka. Season 3 somewhere. Length TBD.

Fire Demon story - I would love to write a longer form season one AU that shamlessly steals the premise of the excellent short fic Fire Walk by Sholio and makes it into a multi-chapter Zuko joins the gang early story. Length TBD.

Ancedotes: This is an idea for a series of short form slice of life/characters backstory fics (3 - 8k, lets say). So far they'd include - "Old Man " a story that answers the question 'how did Sokka learn about physics?' - coming of age/loss of innocence; "Losing at Pai Sho" a story about teen Iroh learning to not be arrogant; and "First Kiss" - the only idea I've ever had for an Azula story, featuring Ty Lee's first kiss and Azula's first... something else. I have an idea for Toph and Zuko, but not committed to them. Katara story has not come to me. I also wanted to pair these with exercises from The 3 A.M. Epiphany because idk the whim struck and the idea is in my head.

Aside form that, I'd like to write a few whumpy Zuko short stories (3 - 10k) that focus on the gaang relationships I haven't written about as much - friendship fics featuring Katara & Zuko, Aang & Zuko, or Toph & Zuko.

If I am ever to become independently wealthy, I'll write my season 3 AU.

And if I ever feel very, very silly - but still slightly angsty - I'll have Iroh commission a symphony in C.

Thank you so much for the question! I am flattered. It was very nice.

If there's an idea you (or anyone who stumbles across this) especially likes, let me know!

#my atla fic #fic ideas #zukka #zuko #zuko whump #atla fanfic #WIPs #it really was very nice to get an ask <3 #jubilant answers

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headcanonsandcupcakes · 1 year ago

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hi! do you have any good maiko childbirth recs?? I’m open to stuff on ao3 and here or fanfic.net!! i feel like I’ve read all that I could find :(

Hey there! You have come to the right place! Its weird I know, but I love Maiko childbirth/pregnancy fics despite not wanting kids myself hahaha. Below are some really good fics, I'm sorry if some of them are already ones you have read, but a good re-read is always fun too :) Illuminated is more of a pregnancy one, but it is really good and its written by my good friend, @flameohotfamily <3

A Decade in the Life of Mai and Zuko is a one shot series, but its 3rd chapter is a nice little one shot about Mai and Zuko having a child. The name isnt Izumi, but its still cute. Daddy's Little Girl is good too, but again, its one where the baby's name isnt Izumi. I think it was written pre LOK. A Matter of Perspective is really good, and has some Iroh peppered in there too :)

Little Sparkler is by @pidgeapodge and it is more on the relation between Azula and Izumi Here Comes the Sun is great because it is from Zuko's perspective and coming to terms with how shitty Ozai was. I Swear That I'll Be Around For You: the first chapter is Zuko and Mai reflecting on how they wont make the mistakes of their parents. The second chapter is about Aang and Katara regarding Bumi II which is still good. Needed: last but not least is post childbirth, but it is about Zuko and Iroh talking about fatherhood and how Iroh lost his son.

I just found another one tonight! If I find more, I’ll add here :)

Fall Maiko Week 2018: the first chapter is about Mai giving birth to Izumi :) I hope you enjoy the fics and hopefully there are some in here that you havent read yet :)

#atla #avatar the last airbender #zuko #atla mai #atla fanfic #lok izumi #princess izumi #atla iroh

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klkbass · 1 year ago

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What Happened to Mako? (My Legend of Korra story)

I realized the other day that the Legend of Korra has been over for nearly a decade. Although many believe it is the inferior of the two Avatar shows, I have watched the entire series at least five times (maybe six). The biggest reason: Mako. Here was this handsome, cool, Firebender. I was a stan almost instantly.

After the series ended, I was disappointed with his outcome. I thought for sure he should be with Korra. So, I did what any good fan would do when they are displeased--I started writing my own version of events. The more common nomenclature: fanfiction.

It started as a Makorra story, but it wasn't NSFW or anything of that nature as many fan stories tend to rise. I wanted something that stayed true to the nature of the original cartoon. Something that could be shared with any audience similar to what "The Legend of Genji" was doing. Also, after reading the graphic novels, I wanted to further explore the ramifications of having humans and spirits living so close together. Thus, the question became, "What if Mako got cursed?" With his position as a detective, it could happen. It would also put him opposite of Tokuga. So, I wrote several thousand, thousand, words and, as things tend to do, eventually the story drifted out of my purview. It was fun while it lasted...but the seeds had been sown.

Fast-forward to San Diego Comic Con (SDCC) 2022. Avatar studios announce two new graphic novels. One to feature Azula, and the other--Mako; both to be released in the summer of 2023. I was ecstatic. After so many years we were finally going to get more LoK content and, more specifically, Mako content. That's when I decided to revisit my own story. Maybe it would have some similarities to what was to come. I rewrote the entire thing to be more canon. No longer was it Makorra. Korra could be there, but this was going to be his adventure. What started as a few chapters, evolved into what is currently around two-hundred thousand words of what happened to Mako after Korra.

When SDCC 2023 came around, I waited with baited breath for news of the aforementioned graphic novels. Azula's story was being pushed back to fall (fine), there was going to be a new story featuring Iroh and June (who asked for that?)--and that was it. No mention of the Mako graphic novel. Not even if it was officially canceled. It was simply non-existent. I was disappointed to say the least.

Alas, at least I had my own nonsense.

Then, a thought slowly began to build. I could share my nonsense. There are still fans out there who want to see more of Mako. Maybe I could find someone that might appreciate what I've done. No sense putting in all this work and keeping it to myself. I was hesitant of course. I've never shared any of my stories before. I'm hardly a wordsmith though I pretend to be one on the internet. After several months of waffling, I decided "what difference would it make?" I could keep it to myself where no one else would read it, or I could share it and maybe find someone else who might enjoy it. There was very little risk short of the wrath of the internet. Keyboard warriors are never shy about sharing their displeasure of things they don't like.

I guess, at this point in my life, I'm too old to care. (Don't ask my age!)

So, if you've made it this far, let me add my shameless plug. If any of this sounds interesting to you, you can find my story here.

Please enjoy, and here's to hoping we get something official.

#mako #legend of korra #legend of korra mako #mako fanfiction #legend of korra fanfic #Mako fanfic

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omegansamurai · 8 months ago

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An Avatar: The Last Airbender/One Piece Crossover Story.

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Chapter 19: Urgency Back Home

Rated: T

Summary: Back in the Avatar world, Ursa and her new family, as well as Hakoda are warned about the battle. Azula and the gang urge them to evacuate everyone in Capital City. Meanwhile, Iroh talks a bit with Ozai's crew. And Ozai...is starting to feel a little different...

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Here's a short chapter! I hope it'll tell you a lot of what's happening on the Avatar world side of things! :)

Give me a comment when you can! And of course, a kudos and a bookmark if you enjoy it! :D

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ssreeder · 1 year ago

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hiiiiiiii dear Sreeeeeder i love, aBSOLUTELY LOVE your LIAB series and it's the BEST FIC in atla ive ever read!!!

last chapter was soooo amazing and i adore every sentence of it! and can't wait for zukka with Hakoda and (even more importantly) BATOOO aaa he's so supportive i love it!!

i'm not here to pressure you about the new chapter, just wanted to let you know your fic is the sunshine of ao3 and it's a work of art and i'll wait patiently for as long as you neeed!!! but im sending love and more love and gratitude, YOU ARE WONDERFUL

have a great day :))) you make mine better everytime i return to your fics (which is a lot ahha)

Bato is so supportive!! Haha! He is the uncle figure Zuko needs right now :) ((not that iroh is doing a bad job but he is under a lot of pressure and doesn’t have a lot of info)) so yeah!! Bato reunion let’s go!! Haha

Thank you for the sweet ask I hope you enjoy the next chapter :)

#im working on it right now #it takes me like twelve years to post a chapter #Idk why #im glad you’re excited about bato #there is a lot of bato this chapter #i promised Zuko centric but this is like… dilf centric #it’s all the MEN this chapter haha #alright enjoy anon #liab #itf #ask

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ninacytosis · 10 months ago

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For the time lost

Summary: Zuko wants to erase every reminder of his past mistakes, and Katara will take him on a journey to, quite literally, heal both of their scarrings.

Contains: Angst, Fluff, Katara has burns scars from Aang's first attempts to firebend, Katara tries to get over her resentment towards the FN, Zuko doesn't hate Azula.

Dear reader: I hope you enjoy it! <3 Let me know if you want me to continue posting

Find chapter one here and chapter three here.

┊┊┊┊☆┊*🌙*┊☆┊┊┊┊

Chapter Two

Katara thought about her students while folding clothes. A decent amount of people decided to move to the Southern Water Tribe after the war ended, and she knew a lot of families took this as a chance to start over. For now, she was in charge of nurturing the minds of the young benders that arrived. Even though she loved this new job, it was time for her to take a break.

“Hey, what’s with the sunglasses?” her dad asked, taking them off the nightstand and putting them on. “I know it’s summer but we’re still in the South Pole, kid”

Katara smiled. “I’m just packing them for tomorrow”.

His dad offered to help her, but she was almost done when he arrived, so she thought of two plans for her trip instead. Plan A, she would eat at the first rotisserie that appeared on her way to Zuko’s fancy royal mansion/palace/casa. Then, she would go to his house and even though she insisted on staying in a hotel nearby, she would eventually agree to stay. She would get a Fire Nation royalty-style spa day, Zuko’s treat (it’s important to clarify that, at least half of this plan was stolen on Toph’s visits to the Fire Nation. Though it is quite obvious). After all of that, she would ask him (preferably during a beach day) why he is visiting the North Tribe so much. And right before leaving, she would spend a day at Iroh’s shop.

However, it seemed like she had to go with plan B. Sure, it wasn’t a bad plan B, but it definitely involved fewer massages and face masks than the original, and Katara was just a girl who wanted a little self-care. Can anyone blame her?

“I like what you’ve done to the place” Katara stared at the wooden panels on the wall. She was too shy to confess her feelings about fire hazards, she didn’t even know if it was offensive for him.

“I tried to make it a bit retro, you know?” Iroh explained. “Everything is changing so fast, I’m afraid the world forgets its roots. But I guess that’s not a big preoccupation for younger folks”.

The words of Iroh resonated in her head on most occasions, especially since she was aware that he was Azulon’s firstborn. Even if he had spent more than a decade fixing his past actions, it was still weird for her to share the same table as a guy he had resented from the moment she gained consciousness. It’s hard to get used to this new era, and it’s probably the reason she barely went to the Fire Nation, even if it meant fewer hangouts with Zuko. In the last months, Aang helped her a lot to channel her antipathy into different, less draining emotions. Today’s emotion is: curiosity.

“I think I know why you are here, Katara” he offered her a cup.

“Well, we both needed a vacation”, she said. ”Zuko’s told me how busy these last weeks have been for him… plus I missed swimming without the risk of dying of hypothermia”.

“Then you’re certainly going to love the beaches down on Chaisee’s island” Iroh gave her a warm laugh. “Oh, the times I had there when I was your age!”

Katara took a sip on the cup and smiled.

“But be careful, Zuko’s skin might be sensitive after last week”, Katara cautiously nodded, “as a water bender yourself, you know how the healing procedures work”.

Healing procedures? Katara nodded again. Could Iroh tell she was nervous?

“Yeah…. I totally forgot. It’s such a sensitive procedure!” she said, having no idea about this healing thing. “And I wouldn’t want to hurt a Fire Lord, they have a history of heated arguments don’t they?” Apparently, it was impossible for Katara to shut her mouth. “Anyways, promise I won’t interfere in the treatment. Don’t know how I forgot, Zuko told me all about it on my way here… I mean, on a letter of course. He wasn’t on the ship. I guess you know that” shut up shut up shut up.

Iroh widened his eyes and made a frown that immediately told Katara that her attempts to sound unbothered and casual failed, as usual.

“Did I say something I shouldn’t?” Iroh covered his mouth his hand.

Katara tried to comfort him. “Well, he technically told me about his trips to the North Tribe, so it was a matter of time until I figured out what was going on”, honestly, she never even considered the idea of him wanting to get rid of his scar. He hadn't mentioned since he was sixteen. “I have a few questions now, though”

“Maybe you should ask him directly, I’m sure you’re going to notice the change once he arrives. A healing process is slow, and you know Zuko: he wants everything fast”, Iroh sighed, “but in his last letter he told me that this healing session was quite intense”.

He poured the water into two cups.

“The thing is,” he cleared his voice, “Zuko doesn’t understand that there are some parts of a wound that can only be healed by him.”

#zutara #ftl #atla #zuko x katara #zutara fanfic #zutara fanfiction #hope you like it!#pls be gentle this is my first fanfic in english

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imagines--galore · 8 months ago

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||The Thread of Fate|| Part Fourteen

Pairing: Zuko x OroraOC (ATLA)

Rating || Genres || Warnings: T+ Romance. Adventure.

Previous Chapters - Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five, Part Six, Part Seven, Part Eight, Part Nine, Part Ten, Part Eleven, Part Twelve, Part Thirteen

A/N: I LOVED writing this chapter! That's it. That's all I'm gonna say! Enjoy my lovelies!!!! Eeeeeepppppppppp!!!!!!

"I was saving that peach for this morning."

"Then you should've told me last night. How was I supposed to know it was yours?"

"Because I didn't eat mine last night. You were right there when I put it away."

"For all I know, you didn't want to eat it."

"Who in their right minds wouldn't eat a peach?! Its the best fruit there is!"

"Which is why I ate it!"

And so the argument continued, words flying back and forth across the breakfast table. Iroh sipped his tea contentedly, enjoying the warmth of the beverage. The little argument didn't bother him, really it would bother him if Orora and Zuko weren't arguing first thing in the morning.

Thinking that perhaps he should step in, lest Orora freeze Zuko for the rest of the day, and she would do that, Iroh cleared his throat, catching both their attention. "I believe you owe Orora a peach Zuko." He stated calmly, prompting his pupil to shoot a smug smirk in the scowling Prince's direction.

"She can get one herself." He grumbled, standing up. Orora pursed her lips in annoyance, but chose to remain quiet. She wouldn't be letting it go that easily, but for now, they were already getting late for work.

Best to pick up on it later.

Iroh couldn't help but chuckle at the look of intense concentration on Orora's face. He knew exactly what she was planning, he just hoped her revenge, should she choose to seek it out, which she would, wouldn't make Zuko too annoyed.

Then again, it was rather nice to see Zuko display emotions other then anger, anguish and hopelessness. For too long he had watched his nephew despair over the loss of his home and his honor. But ever since Orora came into their lives, Iroh had seen significant change. One that made him realize that perhaps the boy Zuko had been before he was banished, was still somewhere inside him.

And as they stepped into the teashop to begin work for the day, he caught his nephew shoving a peach into Orora's hand before stalking off to look for his apron. His young pupil stood still for a few moments, eyes darting from the fruit to the door where Zuko had disappeared.

Finally, she rolled her eyes, a gentle smile playing about her lips. Slipping the peach into her pocket, she began her tasks for the day.

Iroh shook his head, smiling to himself. It was obvious how the both of them cared for one another, and yet neither were willing to take the next step. Perhaps because of their views, views that had been thrust upon them by the world.

A Fire Nation Royal, and a Water Tribe Noblewoman.

A love that was never meant to be.

Huffing to himself, Iroh began to go over the many many teas he had stored on the shelf behind the counter.

He had allowed them both the dignity of working everything out themselves, but if they were going to be too stubborn about their nonsensical views, he would have to step in.

They were far better together then they were apart, he had seen and experienced it firsthand.

Perhaps an opportunity would arrive soon, that would help push both teenagers together.

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She stared at the peach in her hand.

It was rather strange how something as insignificant as a piece of fruit held so much meaning. And all because Zuko had given it to her.

Granted he had done so because his Uncle had told him he owed her one, but, lately, Orora had begun to realize that even though his Uncle was the one to advise Zuko on something, the act being carried out was something he did out of choice, and not necessity.

She was on her break at the moment, sitting in the back of the tea shop, looking over at the peach as if she were seeing it for the first time. Taking a bite of the fruit, she smiled at the sweet taste that burst across her tongue the moment she split the skin with her teeth.

Staring listlessly at the wall across from her, her mind wandered to the dinner they had a few nights ago. She still couldn't believe her and Zuko had managed to pull it off without any major mishap. They had actually been smiling at one another by the end of the night. And there was also the fact that she heard him laugh for the first time since they had met.

She had come to that realization late at night. It was shocking enough that she had laid there in silent surprise for a good few minutes before it sank in completely. It was sad how Zuko didn't allow himself to be happy. He didn't smile often either.

If eating spicy food and reacting to it got a sincere laugh out of him then she would probably do it again.

Orora shook her head as she took the last bite of her peach. The past couple of days, she had been seriously contemplating on Zuko being her soulmate. Here in Ba Sing Se, so far away from the horrors of war and the danger that had plagued them, she had to admit it was easy to dismiss all that was going on beyond the Walls and build a new life.

Maybe

Maybe having Zuko as a soulmate wasn't such a bad thing.

He did look out for her, she mused as she stood to wash her hands in the sink. Whenever she would go out in the city he would follow her. At first it had been a little annoying, but seeing him actually be sincere about the task had softened her heart. And though she knew she could take care of herself, should the need arise, it was comforting to know that there was someone watching out for her.

And then there were the little gestures he had been acting on every now and then. She usually slept late, wanting to get a bit of practice in before heading to bed. Besides, as a waterbender, her abilities were much stronger at night under the light of the moon. Sometimes she would practice for so long that she would barely have the strength to stumble to her bed roll, let alone pull the blanket over her. She would wake the next morning with the blanket covering her, and she knew it had been him.

How?

Because her string had tugged a little during the night and despite being asleep she had felt it.

He would always wait by the door before they left to ensure she walked between him and Iroh during their short trek to the tea shop. And when it was time to go home, he would be at the door once more, walking a pace behind her.

Zuko probably thought she didn't notice. But she did.

She noticed everything about him.

How, despite the cold exterior he tried to maintain, he actually had a kind heart. One that had hid from the rest of the world because he had had his face burned for showing that empathy for someone else.

Looking down at her hands, Orora suddenly realized she had actually washed the peach pit. Smiling softly, the girl couldn't help but shake her head as she recalled how Zuko had avoided her eye when handing her the fruit.

And for some unknown reason, one that certainly had nothing to do with sentimentality, she slipped the little peach pit in the pocket of her trouser.

The moment she did, her string flickered with color, and remained a deep red for a good few minutes.

All the while she stared at it, a warmth spreading through her entire body.

And if she blushed when Zuko walked in a few moments later, she simply walked past him, head held high, and eyes aglow with the realization that, perhaps, her feelings for him were beginning to grow stronger.

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Warm amber gold eyes followed Orora as she walked back to the front of the shop. Once her break ended, his began, and Zuko was dying to eat something and get off his feet.

Honestly, serving tea all day, taking orders, washing dishes and stocking new product was as taxing as firebending. As someone who hadn't had a job his whole life, it was an eye-opener for him that people did all this and much more, just so they had a hot meal and a roof over their head.

Moving to where their daily lunch was, he picked up his bowl and settled onto his chair as he began to eat.

His eyes flickered to the two bowls that were still full of food, and he frowned. Orora hadn't eaten. She would likely be starving when they got back home. He needed a reminder to tell her off when it came to skipping her lunch. She did that often, he noticed, not eat because she didn't feel like it. If she kept doing that, she was surely going to get sick.

Letting out an annoyed huff he took a big bite of the stew he was eating, chewing almost aggressively. It was a little annoying at times, how much the thought of Orora occupied his mind. It was beginning to get rather tedious, if he were honest with himself, trying not to think of her.

But the surprising revelation about it? Was that he didn't actually mind thinking about her.

It was strange. For so long all that had occupied his mind was capturing the Avatar and getting back home. But now that was something that seemed as impossible to achieve as seeing a live dragon.

But what did seem possible? Was living a quiet life as a refugee. During the 100 year war, no Fire Nation army had been able to penetrate the walls of Ba Sing Se. So there was no chance of the city coming under the Fire Nation's control.

Maybe Uncle was right?

Maybe it was time to stop looking to the past and look towards the future.

A future with his Uncle at his side, someone who genuinely loved him.

And Orora. A future with Orora.

Would it ever happen, he wandered, playing with the last few pieces of meat that were at the very bottom of his bowl. He saw her as a friend now, and he was content with just that.

After all, he sighed in slight defeat, leaving the rest of his stew as he moved to the front of the tea shop again.

Soulmate or no, who could ever accept him?

A scarred, banished prince, with nothing but his title to remind him of who he had been.

Nothing more.

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The new boxes of teas had arrived, and Iroh had eagerly opened them up to begin stacking them in the appropriate shelves. Climbing up the ladder, he lowered his hand down where Orora began to hand him the boxes one by one.

It had been a relatively slow day, so most of the chores they would normally do after the shop had closed were nearly completed now. Orora was honestly looking forward to going home early. It had been a busy few days, and she would also be going to Lake Laogai to practice a little of her bending soon.

A little lost in her daydream of practicing in a large body of water, she very nearly missed Zuko approaching the both of them.

"Uncle, we have a problem." His voice sounded urgent, prompting Orora to turn and look at him, while Iroh descended from the ladder.

"One of the customers is on to us." Zuko stated through slightly gritted teeth. Orora looked around the tea shop, and not finding anyone that would look remotely threatening rolled her eyes at Zuko. "You're being paranoid Zuko." She stated in a low voice, before moving to arrange a few more tea boxes in one of the lower shelves. Zuko threw a scowl in her direction before continuing to address his Uncle.

"Don't look now but there is a girl over there at the corner table. She knows we're Fire Nation." Iroh turned around to look at the girl, but was quickly pulled back by Zuko, who growled at him. "Didn't I say don't look?!"

"She's harmless Zuko. She's been coming in for days now. Always orders the Jasmine." Orora stated, not at all bothered by his accusations. Their main concern had been Jet, and he was already dealt with, so no reason to go around stirring up trouble. And she was aware how much Zuko loved to get in trouble for no reason.

Iroh had managed to see the girl, and having seen the girl before as well, he had also noticed how she would often watch his nephew as he worked around the shop. He tried his best not to let his glee show as he spoke. "You're right, Zuko. I've seen that girl in here quite a lot." He nudged his nephew in the stomach playfully. "Seems to me she has quite a little crush on you."

The reactions he had been hoping for were instant. Zuko blinked in astonishment at his suggestion, his brain unable to comprehend that anyone, let alone a pretty girl, would have a crush on him. Orora had dropped the box she had been setting, and turned to stare wide-eyed at her teacher and soulmate.

"What?" They both all but squawked out, prompting Iroh to let out a chuckle.

As if realizing what had just come out of her mouth, Orora quickly turned her attention back to her task, though not before she caught the look of surprise Zuko threw her way. Obviously he had seen her reaction. Though nothing could be said on the matter at present, since the girl came up to the counter. "Thank you for the tea." She said, a smile on her lips as she placed a few coins on the table, which Zuko picked up to put in the money box. "What's your name?" She continued, prompting Iroh to smile slightly.

Turning back around, Zuko spoke. "My name's Lee. We just moved here." He added, gesturing to both his Uncle and Orora, the latter of whom was still rather busy with stacking boxes, however she was more then aware of the conversation happening behind her.

"Hi Lee, my name's Jin." The girl introduced herself. "And......well, I was wondering if you would like to go out sometime." Zuko was stunned, for lack of a better word, staring at Jin as if she had suddenly grown an extra limb or something. Iroh, not wanting such a golden opportunity to go to waste quickly stepped forward.

"He'd love to!" He exclaimed loudly, behind him Orora glanced at Zuko out of the corner of her eyes, trying to see how he had reacted to being asked out by such a pretty girl.

"Great." Jin exclaimed, sounding delighted. "I'll meet you in front of the shop at sundown." And just as suddenly she had appeared, Jin walked away. A large smile on his lips Iroh threw an arm around Zuko's shoulders, who finally broke out of his bewildered state to glare at his Uncle.

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"I'm not going."

The deceleration came as no surprise. As soon as Jin had walked out of earshot, Zuko had been quick to turn to his Uncle and state what was on his mind. Orora, not wanting to hear the rest of the conversation, moved to the back of the shop to finish doing whatever cups were left.

She knew Iroh wouldn't let Zuko back out, not when it meant making someone sad, so it was better to not be a part of that conversation.

Besides, she needed a little alone time to figure out why she had reacted the way she did just then a few minutes ago. Bending some clean water she splashed her face with it, allowing the coolness of it to calm and relax her a little. Maybe she should spend the evening on the roof. There was bound to be a moon out, and she just needed to bask in it's silvery glow. That always helped ground her.

But first, something to eat.

She moved to where her bowl of broth was still waiting for her. It was cold now, but she barely noticed as she caught snippets of conversations from beyond the open door.

Finally, Zuko appeared. He began pacing, grumbling under his breath, and she knew Iroh had won. "You know, you should be glad a pretty girl asked you on a date. Most guys aren't so lucky." She stated between a bite of her stew. He glared at her, to which she simply shrugged. "I'm just saying, why not go out and just have fun?" Setting her bowl down, she watched as his gaze flickered from his finger to her own.

The very finger the string that attached them to one another was tied.

She sighed, inhaling through her nose and exhaling through her mouth as she spoke. Zuko, just because we've decided to be friends doesn't mean we've promised anything more." Her voice was soft, and sounded a little detached, even to her own ears. And despite her heart telling her not to, her mind was pushing her to do the right thing.

"Go out with her. And like your Uncle said, be a normal boy for once. You deserve that more then anything. To be treated normally and not as the enemy." A smile pulled at her lips, though it didn't reach her eyes. At least not completely.

Something that Zuko noticed, even as he finally relented. "Alright, I'll go."

————————–

Zuko was beginning to feel a little exhausted.

Mentally.

Jin spoke. A lot. And while that wasn't a bad thing, he had never been good for long conversations. He preferred silence and as minimal conversation as possible. Orora had understood that early on, and though she teased him about being broody, she would keep quiet when she knew he needed the silence to just......be.

Her conversations did help him forget his rather morbid thoughts, and whenever he would return to silently contemplating, he found his mind to be much lighter then it had been before.

And all because he spoke to her.

"So tell me, I know Mushi is your Uncle, but what about that girl that works with you?" Jin's question had him blinking out of his stupor and looking at her across the dinner table. "Oh, she's a student of my Uncle's. He helps her with her waterbending, even though he isn't a bender himself." He was quick to add with a shrug.

He watched, confused, as Jin let out a little sigh of relief, her shoulders drooping slightly. "Oh well thats good! From the way she looks at you sometimes, I thought you two were soulmates or something."

Zuko blinked.

"What?" That word was supposed to come out as a demand, but instead it came out hoarse and unbelieving. The girl shrugged. "Well, yeah. I mean I've seen her look at you sometimes, and thats the exact way my mom looks at my dad when he isn't looking." She grinned. "They're soulmates." She added as a away of explanation.

The young prince simply gave a small nod, before returning to his silent contemplation, only half listening to Jin as she continued to talk.

————————–

The only good part of her evening had been when she had seen Zuko walk out after Iroh had helped him with his unruly hair. She had to physically hold herself back from laughing out loud, and had only let loose after he had gone, not wanting to hurt his feelings.

"I see you are amused by my nephew's misery Orora." Iroh said, though there was no anger in his words, only slight reprimand. Orora pursed her lips to keep from smiling. "I'm sorry Master. Though I do hope Zuko has a good time. He deserves it." She added.

Iroh reached out to pat her arm in an affectionate manner. "I know you are a little hurt, but you possess a kind heart for saying so Orora." Seeing the slightly crestfallen look on her face, as she allowed her true feelings for the date to show, Iroh continued.

"And who knows, perhaps this date will act as the wake up call my nephew needs to not take you for granted."

She shook her head. "He doesn't do that Master." Moving to the window, she placed one leg over the ledge. "Although, it would be nice if he were to notice me as a girl rather then just his friend." So saying, she pulled herself up on the roof to loose herself to her thoughts.

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Well this was a little awkward.

Zuko glanced at Jin, looking more then a little crestfallen about discovering that he lamps weren't lit. And looking at her sad expression, he was reminded of Orora, and how sad she would look whenever he spoke to her about his past. Though since that first night, when he had revealed everything, he did try to cheer her up. Mostly he just said something to annoy her, to distract her from thinking about his past.

Lately though, he had been working on actually making her smile.

"Close your eyes. And don't look." He said. Jin gave him a confused look, but did as he asked. She even covered her eyes to assure him that she wasn't looking.

Zuko walked forward, holding his hands together. He closed his eyes briefly, inhaling as he allowed his inner fire to burn a little brighter. It had been so long since he had firebended. Using his pointer and middle fingers on each hand, he shot small bursts of flame in the directions of the candles to light them. It didn't take long for him to be done, and once finished, he stood straight and looked at Jin, who still stood with her palms over her eyes.

"Okay, now you can look."

Removing her hands, Jin gasped. "Oh, wow." Zuko had to admit, the lights did look rather beautiful as they reflected off the surface of the water of the fountain. Jin looked at Zuko, amazed. She walked up to him, looking at the candles. "What happened? How did they light? What did you do?" There was no accusation in her tone. Only surprise and happiness as her gaze flitted between him and the lights around them. Zuko didn't reply and Jin finally fell silent as well, looking around at the pretty view in awe.

And as he watched the light reflect in the fountain, he couldn't help but think of Orora and how she would probably create ice crystals to hang in midair. He was sure the sight would only become even more wondrous then it already was.

He was brought out of his thoughts when he felt Jin take his hand. Feeling a little lost and confused, since he had no other girl other then Orora actually take his hand voluntarily, he turned so he could look at Jin.

Who was beginning to lean in a little.

Prompting him to quickly hold up a piece of paper between them. His heart thumped wildly in his chest. Surely she hadn't been about to..........

"I've brought you something." Jin looked at him surprised. "It's a coupon for a free cup of tea." He continued, prompting the girl to smile. "Lee, this is so sweet." She said taking the coupon and smiling at him. Zuko shrugged as he took a couple of steps back. "Don't thank me – it was my Uncle's idea. He thinks you're our most valuable customer."

Jin smiled. "Your uncle is a good teacher." The young prince's face softened slightly at the words. "Yeah, Orora can testify to that." He said, his eyes falling to the fountain once more where the water rippled slightly in the breeze. He felt Jin walk up next to him. A hand pressed to the side of his face. "I have something for you too. Now it's your turn to close your eyes."

With no hesitation he did. He felt Jin move even closer to him before a pair of soft lips pressed against his own. The contact was brief and she pulled back almost instantly. And though he did lean back in a little, almost instinctively he pulled back.

He opened his eyes, standing there and looking at her. Imagining someone else.

Someone with darker skin.

Ice blue eyes.

A patch of white in her hair.

And a smile that had begun to effect him more then he ever thought possible.

He turned his back on Jin, beginning to walk away.

"What's wrong?" Jin called out behind him. He could almost hear the disappointment in her voice. "It's complicated." He said, trying to shake away the image of Orora looking at him just as Jin had a few moments ago. "I have to go." He said starting to walk once more.

"Its that girl isn't it?"

He turned around startled, his eyes wide in disbelief as he stared at Jin. She had an almost sad smile on her lips as she looked at him. "You know you look at her the same way she looks at you sometimes. I've seen it." She said sighing in an almost melancholy way. "I would kill to have someone look at me like that. Like I'm their reason for getting up in the morning." She clarified, oversharing as usual, given how that was how she talked. Jin shrugged.

"Maybe it doesn't have to be as complicated like you say it is."

Zuko looked at her one last time, before sprinting back home.

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Iroh looked out from the window down in the street, hoping to catch sight of Zuko as he returned. Of course he did not anticipate his nephew taking the back entrance of the apartment building. The door opened and Zuko walked in, silent and contemplative.

Trimming a bonsai tree to appear nonchalant, Iroh barely glanced at his nephew. "How was your night, Prince Zuko?" He asked. Zuko responded by walking to the bedroom and slamming the door shut behind him. Iroh looked after him for a second with a confused expression before he sighed and moved back to his task.

Though he immediately turned back around when he heard the door crack open and Zuko's voice to filter out.

"It was nice." He said, his voice soft and sounded as if he didn't believe the words himself. The door closed again, and Iroh smiled before resuming his task.

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He found her lying on the roof. Her arms behind her head, her gaze trained towards the night sky, the light of the moon bright yet soothing. She didn't move her head, though she knew he was there as he mirrored her position.

A peaceful silence enveloped them both.

Where Zuko's mind had been a cacophony of words and voices echoing all around, barely finishing a thought, it was now silent. And where Orora had been overthinking even the most minutest of details, she found perfection in that moment as Zuko lay beside her.

"So, how was your date?" She finally spoke, her voice breaking the stillness of the moment, though not taking away from the tranquility of it.

"It was nice." Zuko repeated the same words he had told his Uncle, eyes tracing the many stars that littered the night sky. "I told her we traveled with a circus at one point. She seemed to believe it."

A soft laugh echoed across the rooftop. A sound that prompted Zuko to smile. He liked hearing her laugh.

"She also asked me to juggle, and I broke a couple of pots."

Another laugh. He was beginning to associate that sound with true happiness.

"Then she took me to see this fountain. You would've liked it. The lights made it look like the water was dancing." He never would've thought he would say words like that. Words of beauty and appreciation he always kept to himself. But here, with her, he had no problem saying them out loud.

Another silence.

This time it was broken by Orora. And the words she spoke next were so soft that Zuko almost missed them.

"Did you kiss?"

He stiffened beside her, and she had her answer. A pang of sadness had her almost wincing as she pursed her lips.

"She did." His voice finally came, soft and sincere. "I didn't."

Normally when the both of them spoke to each other concerning anything, words were their major means of communication. A way to get their point and message across.

But right then, they were barely speaking, and yet the amount of emotion, understanding and comprehension that passed between them was one neither had ever felt before.

Finally, finally, she turned her head, something she had been dying to do since he came up.

Why?

Because she wanted to look at his handsome face.

She wasn't at all surprised to see him looking back at her. The wind blew softly, a few strands of her hair escaping her comb and tickling her cheek.

"Why?"

Her heart was beating fast, though her breathing was calm and slow. She had never seen him look so gentle before. So soft.

Zuko allowed his eyes to roam over her face. From her expressive blue eyes, to that soft looking patch of white hair. And while in the past he had to stop himself from touching it, this time he didn't.

His hand lifted to gently brush the tips of his fingers against the strands. They were just as soft as he had imagined.

In his attempt to stroke her hair, his body had shifted even closer, and tilted slightly so that he was lying at his side. Loosing herself to the feeling of his fingers in her hair, Orora couldn't help but lean towards him, her upper body turning to the side as well.

Their gaze never wavered from one another.

He cleared his throat, wanting to give her an answer though unable to find the words. And somehow, she understood.

So she brought her fingers up, gently pressing them against his lips and giving him a smile, showing him that despite him not saying a word, she knew.

A look of gratitude flashed in his amber gaze, as his hand slowly dropped from her hair, to rest his palm against her cheek. The gesture surprised her, prompting her to remove her fingers from his lips. Though they didn't get very far.

Instead she pressed her fingers gently against the scar on his face. She allowed her fingers to trace along the rough skin, a touch so exquisite and tender, that Zuko was sure it was nothing but a dream.

But the reality of it was that Orora was lying next to him. And she was touching his scar. The ugliest part of him. And she was touching it as if it were the most softest of flowers.

"Close your eyes." He said, his voice a perfect replica of his expression.

Tender.

The girl stopped moving her fingers, though her hand stayed where it was.

She did as he asked.

He moved closer, his eyes closing as well.

She felt his nose brush against her own.

He felt her warm breath caress his mouth.

And in that moment, there was no war.

There was no Fire Nation or Water Tribe.

No Prince or Noblewoman.

It was a moment between a boy and a girl.

A moment under the stars as his lips found hers in a tender embrace.

And the string that connected them together burst in a flash of color.

Blue and Red.

Before it faded once more.

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