#and zuko being a proud husband

[discordiansamba]

when zuko is young, he doesn't realize anything is amiss.

his mom and his cousin are kind. he spends a lot of time with them when he's very young- until his mother's attention has to turn towards his little sister. zuko doesn't mind- he's excited at the prospect of being an older brother. mom lets him hold her, and he does so with the utmost care. he smiles down at her and she gurgles up at him. he promises to protect her. he's her older brother.

then his father arrives.

he takes one look at him and all but rips his sister from his arms. zuko doesn't understand what he's done wrong. he's too young. his father yells at mom. azula is crying. zuko just wants the noise to stop, so he leaves and finds his cousin. he gives him a sad look when he asks about it, but then quickly distracts him by showing him a new firebending trick.

when zuko is four, he manages his first flame. it is small and weak- but he's able to do it again on grandfather's command. the old man is pleased- and for the first time, he pats zuko's head. when he turns to his mom, the color is drained from her face, but she manages a faint smile. she's so proud of him.

he does not know then, that he's sealed his own fate.

zuko is five when he first begins to pay attention to the whispers. he's watching as his father dotes on azula- and hears someone say how glad ozai is to have true heir. they glance over in his direction and giggle once they realize he's listening. zuko frowns, and asks mom about it.

she tells him with a shaky voice that his father isn't his father.

zuko doesn't understand. he's old enough to notice he doesn't really look like his father, but he doesn't yet know what that means. his mom tells him that he's the child of her first husband. she strokes his head as she says that, like she's trying to reassure him. as if this is a terrible thing.

when zuko is just a little older, he finally understands.

he's not his father's son. he's not part of sozin's lineage. he's just a commoner who got tacked on to the royal line. his father- his stepfather- is cold to him because of this. there's nothing connecting the two of them, other than the fact that his wife is zuko's mother. he suddenly understands why people call him prince with laughter in their voices. like it's all a big joke.

he's not like his half-sister. azula is a prodigy. her manners are impeccable. she takes to all of her lessons with ease. zuko struggles to keep up. he's never good enough. of course not, he hears people mutter, he's just a peasant. his stepfather pretends he doesn't exist. his half-sister looks down at him. his mother and cousin are kind, but then they're both gone.

zuko grows up with resentment in his heart.

when he's thirteen, he lashes out at a general. it was over something stupid- the way he pulled on a servant's wrist during one of the countless meaningless functions he was forced to attend. it was obvious she didn't like it. zuko intervenes. he doesn't even think about it. he grabs the general's wrist and yanks it away.

there's silence.

he'll learn later that the general was of old, noble blood. a lineage almost as old as sozin's. he doesn't see the faint way his stepfather's lips turn upwards as it happens. he doesn't know he's finally given him the excuse he's been looking for.

the first time his stepfather touches him, it's to burn his face. he thinks the man is smiling.

oh. right. zuko must look like his real father, he thinks.

(now he'll always look like him a little less.)

[phoenix-king-ozai]

I imagine this is how Ozai and Azulon's relationship was like. For context, little Ozai tried to give Azulon a father's day gift and Azulon responded poorly not just because he finds Ozai irritating, but because he interrupted his convo with Iroh so it goes about as well as one would expect.

My theory is that Azulon’s wife Ilah died to give birth to Ozai because she was middle-aged and Azulon wanted a spare heir in case of Iroh's death on the battlefield or his incapability to procreate (Iroh had Lu Ten very late in life despite being a promiscuous war general) Azulon also wanted are younger child for the return of Sozin’s comet. Ilah refused because she knew the risk involved and Azulon forced himself on her as his right as Fire Lord and her husband. Ilah despises Azulon after this despite his apologies and guilt due to her shunning of him.

Azulon truly loved Ilah but let his temper and desire go to his head. Fire Lady Ilah refuses his apology and never forgives him for his martial raping her. But on the other hand, she is somewhat happy and hopeful about their second child. Crown Prince-Shogun Iroh on the other hand is ecstatic about having a baby brother or sister. The birth of Prince Ozai during the Summer Solstice and the hottest day in the history of the Fire Nation bring joy and pride to Fire Lord Azulon and Crown Fire Prince-Shogun Iroh as this is a sign that the newborn has been blessed by Agni the Spirit of Fire | Flame & the Sun itself!

That joy and pride turn into hatred, horror, sadness, and despair when Fire Lady Ilah dies of traumatic pregnancy, covered in blood and burns. The horror and trauma that their beloved wife | mother suffered had left a gruesome, bloody, and violent image in their mind. Azulon despite knowing the truth that he killed Ilah through his actions of marital rape, uses baby Ozai as a scapegoat to let out his anger, rage, fury, and despair. Iroh also grows to despise & resent his baby brother and refuses to touch or hold him out of complete neglect, but later comes to regret his part in the emotional abuse on his innocent child brother.

The newborn’s only aunt’s Li and Lo look after their baby nephew, teaching him the ways of their father, his grandfather Fire Lord Sozin. The Imperial Clan of the Fire Nation: Ryuzo Clan (Fire Lord clan) has lost one powerhouse in favor of another. Strong, gifted, and intelligent like his mother and brutal, ruthless, cunning, proud, and above all a powerful warriors like his brother, father, and grandfather before him.

However, whereas Ozai was neglected and despised over Fire Lady Ilah's death by Iroh and Azulon. Lu Ten wasn't despised or mistreated by Iroh and Azulon compared to Ozai. Probably because Azulon cared more about his heir to his first-born son and having his first grandson. Also, I believe that Iroh later realized that the neglect, isolation, and emotional abuse his brother suffered during his childhood had emotionally scarred him. He didn't want the same fate for Lu Ten despite his beloved wife dying just like his mother had. Lu Ten being the Golden Child of the family and Azulon and Iroh's pride and joy despite having the same circumstances that befall him, and Ozai being the Black Sheep of the family; causes him immense loathing and jealousy of his nephew's happiness and relationships with his father and brother.

I believe that Ozai and Ursa have a long loving, complex, and complicated relationship. Ozai's imperialistic ambition and brainwashing along with paternal abuse by Azulon made him extremely emotionally damaged and socially unstable. Iroh had Ilah and Zuko had Ursa to help love and guide them. Ozai probably only had abusive Azulon and neglectful Iroh; who both probably hate him due to Ilah's death in childbirth.

@trashfactorysstuff His phenonmal artwork and headcanon!

[miss-sweetea-pie]

A zutara rant about Aunt Wu’s prediction.

As a proud Zutarian I personally love the idea about aunt Wu’s prediction that she gave Katara about marrying a powerful bender is actually hinting at Zuko being the guy.

But I did see some antics mention “Zuko isn’t a powerful bender and it’s mentioned a lot that he’s not that good, they didn’t even think he was a fire bender bah bah”

First off that’s very rude!

So let’s over, analyze the fortune teller episode. Looking back on that episode we noticed that Aunt Wu’s predictions are technically accurate, but not always as they seem. this gets confirmed by the end of the episode and how that one man smugly tells Sokka that the prediction, said the village wouldn’t be destroyed and it wasn’t. Or that one guy having a safe trip and almost getting attacked by a platypus Bear but the gang saves him, technically, he still had a safe trip.

So the whole prediction is “ I see great romance for you the man you’re going to marry, he is a very powerful bender.” 

(technically that wasn’t actually the whole prediction, considering A.ang was eavesdropping  and well Kat@ang is all about A.ang and his feelings but I digress)

So the first half I guess is more about your taste in romance. I don’t think or feel like the canon kat@ang is this great epic romantic personality. But hey i’m willing to admit it could just be my taste. However the show does give us an example of a really powerful romances between Oma and Shu. In story lore of a romance that is so great it has been remembered for centuries and has a city named after them and ironically it has the famous enemies to lovers trope. hmm Interesting.

What I can defend though is the part that mentions “the man you will marry is a very powerful bender” you see A.ang it is a very powerful bender and once he is a fully realized avatar, he will probably be considered the most powerful bender. but like I pointed out Aunt Wu’s  predictions have a catch or they’re not always as you expect. And she said, A (not most) very powerful bender that could technically be anyone right? considering there are masters for all the different elements and being considered a master is still very impressive and seen as an accomplishment Even if you are not the avatar. So her future husband could be a possible Master. Adding the fact that most of the masters are old so this person could not even be fully realized yet, Insert Zuko.

So people mention that he isn’t that great of a bender or he’s not that powerful and yes, the show does mention that, but also who tells us that? Oh right. His dad the literal villain. The people that try to put him down tell him that he isn’t good enough. personally, I also think the show try to contradict that by showing us moments. for example in book one he did take down Zhao and showed him mercy. (when I watch the show, I think Zuko is actually holding back a lot of the time because he does have a consciences. his whole arc was kick started by him, having a conscience  and being empathetic so I don’t think it’s crazy to imagine him holding back a little). so when Ozai calls Zuko weak it’s kind of similar to how he calls A.ang weak in the finale. But no one questions A.ang not being a powerful bender. Hmmm weird.

Also, the other reason why I think Zuko being the one in the prediction is just better for the story is because the idea that you can become a powerful bender just feels so satisfying to me. In the show people still need to find masters and grow their skills. we are shown that people get better at things over time if they apply themselves. I think that’s a really good lesson. A similar lesson is already applied with Katara I may add, so it’s pretty fitting in a way.

Also the fact that he learns the true meaning of fire bending adds a nice layer of depth. it isn’t just about the skill of fire bending It’s also about the mindset. It really goes to show how he really has become a better and powerful bender in the end.

[ruisversion]

Deal? Deal. || Zuko × f!reader

fluff

masterlist

"I've been looking everywhere for you, love," I finally find him, struggling to put his right arm into his right sleeve. I walk towards him and start helping him put the sleeve in. "I already told you, ask for help. You still haven't healed completely,"

"Do you hate me?" he asks, worry in his voice.

"No, of course I don't. I'm just worried for you is all," I give him a small smile and start tying his robe.

"I'm sorry," he apologises. I lay my forehead on his back.

"Stop with the apologies. It's meaning dwindles the more you say it. I need you listen to me. To acknowledge and take in whatever I say and stop ignoring me, tuning my nagging out. I can't be the only one trying, Zuko. A relationship works both ways, and I really want this one to work. I've spent too much of my life loving you. And ask for help, I'm here for you. Got it?"

"Got it," he says. I go back to being in front of him.

"I'm so proud of you," I put my hand on his cheek and he just overlaps that hand with his. "I love you," I tiptoe and kiss him.

"I love you too. I can't wait for you to become Fire Lady," WHAT?

"We're still technically teenagers, we have time," I smile.

"So-"

"As long as you start listening to me and stop being so stubborn, then we have a deal,"

"Deal," I finish up with helping him wear the rest of the uniform.

"Fire Lord Zuko... my future husband... okay, I'm going to go join Katara and the others outside to watch the ceremony,"

[freckledsokka]

wip wednesday

a wee snippet of the self-indulgent tense-fuckery zukka fic i'm working on that no one asked for! most of this fic is sokka (ghost sokka? spirit sokka? who knows) waxing poetic about zuko grieving him, but i wrote this scene with korra for a touch of levity (while still being a little angsty).

note: this is NOT a reader fic. do not let the use of "you" fool you. this is fully from sokka's pov as if he's narrating this to zuko.

"You remind me of him," you tell the Avatar, something wistful tugging at the corner of your mouth, reaching to the creases of your eyes. Korra looks almost bashful, or maybe just flattered. "I get that a lot," she says quietly, as if it's a sore subject but she doesn't want to offend you by mentioning it. You smile at her, warm and reassuring. "I don't mean Aang." "Oh." She sounds surprised, which quickly gives way to embarrassed when you offer her an encouraging smirk to help the thought along. "Oh," she says again, nearly in a different octave. "Oh, I'm so sorry, I should have realized that's — of course, that's who you meant." She laughs nervously, waving her hand vaguely at herself. "Southern Water Tribe, duh." "It's not just that," you tell her, and her nervous energy seems to settle a little at the calm, smooth tone of your voice. "You have the same tenacity, the same spirit. He would be proud to see the Avatar you've become."

Korra is quiet for a moment, either out of respect or simply a loss for words. Then she smiles, a little sheepishly but no less grateful to be honored in such a way. "Tenzin told me he — the Chief? — was with you and my father the night the Red Lotus tried to kidnap me." She looks away, guilt seeping into the set of her shoulders, the way she wraps her arms across her chest. "I'm sorry, I — Did he —?" She glances back, eyes bright, pleading for some kind of forgiveness she doesn't need to be given. "Was it my fault?"

"Korra," you say slowly, frowning, placing a gentle hand on her arm. "What did Tenzin tell you? The Red Lotus had nothing to do with Sokka's passing."

Her eyes go wide. "Really? But he made it sound like — I mean, my dad became Head Chieftain not long after that, I thought —"

You can't help the chuckle low in the back of your throat, a rumble of distant thunder, warm as a summer storm. "No, Korra. Sokka never was particularly suited to be Chief. He felt it was time to pass it on, is all. That, and he felt he could do more good behind the scenes, or through his work in Republic City. But, more often than not, he was with me. Those years were some of our best." 

Korra lets out a trill of nerves, huffing in relief. "Thank the Spirits." A beat, the haunted look of someone who is technically thousands of years old yielding to the vulnerability of someone barely out of her teens carrying the weight of the Spirit and human worlds on her shoulders, knowing she is the reason your — our — friend is gone. This is the cycle we were all prepared for, and yet — "Is that why I barely remember him? Didn't he ever visit Katara at the compound? Why didn't he ever say hello?"

"I wish I could tell you, Korra, but he never gave me his reasons." A wry smile. "I'm sorry if I kept him from you."

Korra twists her mouth, setting her jaw defiantly. "Lord Zuko, if I may —" She isn't really asking permission and you know this, but you nod anyway. "That's bullshit, and you know it. He was your husband. Don't tell me you didn't know just because he didn't tell you."

Your mouth twitches knowingly, even as your expression remains impressively neutral. "I had my suspicions, of course."

"Which were?" Korra presses.

If she weren't the Avatar, I suspect you would've said something along the lines of None of your damn business or Nothing to concern yourself about. Being the Avatar still has its perks in dragging honesty out of you, it seems. Still, you manage to make it a whole production, sighing like it physically pains you to admit it. 

"He wanted to wait until you'd mastered all four elements before he would teach you" — an exaggerated eyeroll, fingers pinching the bridge of your nose — "the 'fifth element.'"

Korra's brow furrows. She blinks like she's waiting for a punchline. "The — what? There is no fifth element, unless you count energy, but —"

"I know," you agree, exhausted. "I know."

"Then what?" Korra demands, sounding as flabbergasted as she looks.

You take a deep breath, wearily replying, "Swordbending."

Korra is frozen for a moment, maybe in shock, maybe in disbelief. Then she bursts out laughing, bright and cool as snow crunching underfoot, until it dawns on her that maybe you weren't actually joking. "Wait, really?" she asks incredulously. "He actually wanted to — to teach me? Why didn't he just team up with Katara? Spirits, it would've been so much fun to have a swordmaster around."

"You told me you have to learn the elements in order, Zuko," you say in a poor imitation of my voice. It's been so long, you've almost forgotten it. "He didn't want to influence your bending, or distract you from your role as Avatar, or so I assume."

Korra huffs. "Sounds an awful lot like he did tell you things, then," she mutters indignantly.

You shrug. "Not in so many words. He said a lot without ever saying it." That wistful slant of your mouth softens into something closer to melancholy. "When you're with someone as long as I was with Sokka, you learn to read between the lines. We had our own language, in a way."

"But if you suspected, why didn't you say anything? Why not encourage him?"

There's a sadness in your smile, an ache in your eyes. "Because, young Avatar," you say gently, "you always think you'll have more time."

[the-badger-mole]

I have been mulling over a Psych!AU for ATLA. I think it would be hilarious. I will probably not get around to writing it, but here's what I was thinking.

Katara in the Shawn Spencer role. She honed her skills with Pakku, her surly, not always supportive grandfather who came to live with her family when she was very young after her mother died. He saw her knack for puzzle solving and her preternaturally sharp memory. Katara has a strained relationship with him because of his deep rooted misogyny and his insistence that despite being a woman, Katara should follow his footsteps into law enforcement. It...is a weird dichotomy, and at the start of the story, it has been years since they spoke.

Sokka is her Gus. He's a tightly wound, neurotic overachiever who feels disappointed because after years of being the gifted kid, he ends up working as a pharma rep. He wanted to be an engineer or a bio-chemist, but it didn't work out (I haven't decided why just yet). He still pursues those interests in his own time, which makes him a valuable, if reluctant participant in his sister's schemes. He initially goes along with his sister's foray into psychic detecting in order to protect her, but eventually he gets just as into it as she is. Especially after he meets Suki.

Suki is our Juliette. She's a sharp junior detective who assists the sibling detective duo from time to time. She believes Katara's psychic abilities after a few times witnessing her solving cases. Well, she mostly believes it. She can't completely wrap her mind around it, but she also can't think of a rational, natural explanation for how Katara seems to know what she knows. As time goes on, she develops feelings for Sokka, the sarcastic, logical, goofy half of the detective duo. She often acts as a buffer between the siblings and her partner,

Zuko is the Carlton Lassiter of the story. He does not believe Katara's claims of psychic abilities, but like Suki, he hasn't come up with a rational explanation. Yet. Still, she gets results, he can't deny. Their relationship is rocky at first. Zuko was the best detective in the police department, until Katara started showing him up. He is a stickler for rules and procedure, and he hates how Katara and her brother just do whatever cockamamie thing pops into their head, and it works out. As they work together more, he feels like he's on the cusp of figuring her out, but he just finds himself more and more impressed with her. Eventually, they become friends, and after that, something else blossoms between them.

Toph is this story's Woody. She's a slightly unhinged ME with an attitude problem. She is probably not completely blind, but she's severely visually impaired, which makes people doubt her abilities. At first. But then they realize why she is the ME for the most prestigious police department in the area. She likes the way Katara and Sokka have shaken up the department, so she doesn't mind helping them out every so often. She knows exactly how Katara manages to solve these crimes, but she will take that secret to the grave, because she thinks it's hilarious.

Aang is McNabb, and if you've seen the show, you know I'm right.

Iroh is the chief Vic. He runs the department with efficiently and is the one who impressed the importance of the rules in his nephew, Detective Zuko. Unfortunately, he never could get the boy to be more open minded. Iroh has no trouble employing the services of a psychic detective, as long as she gets the job done. He also finds it amusing to watch his nephew trying very hard not to be in love with her.

Obviously, Pakku is the Henry. Hakoda is Hakoda. He's a good dad, but he left a lot of the work of raising his kids to his mother-in-law, Kanna and Pakku, her husband, while he worked to keep the entire household financially afloat. Now that his kids are grown and out of the house, and he works less, he is trying to keep them all connected. He's very proud of his kids, though he doesn't completely understand what exactly it is they're doing. Either that, or he occasionally fills the Gus role along with or instead of Sokka.

[unacaritafeliz]

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favorite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers. Let’s spread the self-love ❤

This is soooo mean I have 140 fic how am I supposed to choose??? Here are 5 that I am proud of and that I think reflect my way of writing.

Checks, Chirps & Cellys -> ATLA | Sokka/Suki/Zuko | 41k words (WIP) | college hockey AU

crows of a feather -> Haikyuu | Ukai Keishin & Karasuno Volleyball Team | 20k words | team as family

skin deep -> ATLA | Sokka/Suki/Yue/Zuko | 7.4k words | soulmate au

Kodzuken and Bokuto Koutarou being best friends for 3,316 words straight -> Haikyuu | Kozume Kenma & Bokuto Koutarou | 3.3k words | slice of life

my girlfriend's husband's boyfriend & me -> ATLA | Jet/Sokka/Suki/Zuko | 3.4k words | fake marriage, foster family au

[phoenix-king-ozai]

My Thoughts About Azulon & Ozai’s Parent & Child Relationship!

My theory is that Azulon’s wife Ilah died to give birth to Ozai while she was middle-aged and Azulon wanted a spare heir in case of Iroh's death on the battlefield or his incapability to procreate (Iroh had Lu Ten very late in life despite being a promiscuous war general) Azulon also wanted are younger child for the return of Sozin’s comet. Ilah refused because she knew the risk involved and Azulon forced himself on her as his right as Fire Lord and her husband. Ilah despises Azulon after this despite his apologies and guilt due to her shunning of him.

Azulon truly loved Ilah but let his temper and desire go to his head. Fire Lady Ilah refuses his apology and never forgives him for his martial raping her. But on the other hand, she is somewhat happy and hopeful about their second child. Crown Prince-Shogun Iroh on the other hand is ecstatic about having a baby brother or sister. The birth of Prince Ozai during the Summer Solstice and the hottest day in the history of the Fire Nation bring joy and pride to Fire Lord Azulon and Crown Fire Prince-Shogun Iroh as this is a sign that the newborn has been blessed by Agni the Spirit of Fire | Flame & the Sun itself!

Azulon and Iroh’s joy and pride turn into hatred, horror, sadness, and despair when Fire Lady Ilah dies of traumatic pregnancy, covered in blood and burns. The horror and trauma that their beloved wife | mother suffered had left a gruesome, bloody, and violent image in their mind. Azulon despite knowing the truth that he killed Ilah through his actions of marital rape, uses baby Ozai as a scapegoat to let out his anger, rage, fury, and despair. Iroh also grows to despise & resent his baby brother and refuses to touch or hold him out of complete neglect, but later comes to regret his part in the emotional abuse on his innocent child brother.

The newborn’s only aunt’s Li and Lo look after their baby nephew, teaching him the ways of their father, his grandfather Fire Lord Sozin. The Imperial Clan of the Fire Nation: Ryuzo Clan (Fire Lord clan) has lost one powerhouse in favor of another. Strong, gifted, and intelligent like his mother and brutal, ruthless, cunning, proud, and above all a powerful warriors like his brother, father, and grandfather before him.

However, whereas Ozai was neglected and despised over Fire Lady Ilah's death by Iroh and Azulon. Lu Ten wasn't despised or mistreated by Iroh and Azulon compared to Ozai. Probably because Azulon cared more about his heir to his first-born son and having his first grandson. Also, I believe that Iroh later realized that the neglect, isolation, and emotional abuse his brother suffered during his childhood had emotionally scarred him. He didn't want the same fate for Lu Ten despite his beloved wife dying just like his mother had. Lu Ten being the Golden Child of the family and Azulon and Iroh's pride and joy despite having the same circumstances that befall him, and Ozai being the Black Sheep of the family; causes him immense loathing and jealousy of his nephew's happiness and relationships with his father and brother.

Ozai probably had it FAR rougher than Zuko during his childhood. If Ozai's mother Fire Lady Ilah died in childbirth and Azulon despises him for it and Iroh neglects him and joins the military to cope with the loss of their mother. Then that could explain Ozai being a FAR more ruthless, cold, and hateful version of his son Zuko. Zuko at least had his mother Ursa, uncle Iroh, Mai, and Ty Lee to comfort him. Ozai used to treat his children decently well. Zuko and Azula used to have a happy childhood and play with each other! Ozai probably had no one except his cold, hateful, and abusive father, and the Royal Court! Children surround by horrible people in a negative environment tend to not turn out good in their adult years.

The single truest comment on the ATLA subreddit

[enchantedquill-40]

As Zuko immersed himself in the responsibilities befitting an emperor, Sokka found himself observing from the sidelines. The courtyard, once a haven of shared moments and love, now became a quiet witness to the unfolding chapters of Zuko's ascension to the throne. As the day approached when they would be married, Sokka couldn't help but marvel at the journey that brought them here.

Seated on a bench, Sokka observed Zuko in the midst of a staff meeting. The air was filled with a sense of purpose and duty, and Zuko's expressions reflected the weight of leadership. Sokka admired the way Zuko navigated the complexities of governance with a steadfast determination.

The courtyard, bathed in the soft glow of lanterns, provided a serene backdrop to Zuko's meetings. The tapestries, woven with threads of love and resilience, seemed to shimmer with a newfound significance. Sokka, though not directly involved in the political affairs, felt a deep connection to Zuko's journey.

Zuko, aware of Sokka's presence, met his gaze briefly, offering a reassuring smile. Despite the weight of his responsibilities, Zuko's eyes conveyed a sense of warmth and love that transcended the formalities of his role. Sokka, in those moments, felt a surge of pride for the man he would soon call his husband.

As the meeting progressed, Sokka couldn't help but reflect on the remarkable transformation that both he and Zuko had undergone. The courtyard, once a symbol of Sokka's solitude, now bore witness to the shared resilience of their love amidst the complexities of royalty.

After the meeting, Zuko approached Sokka with a mixture of weariness and determination. "It's a lot to handle, but I'm doing my best. I want to create a future that we can be proud of, Sokka."

Sokka, standing up, placed a hand on Zuko's shoulder. "You're doing an amazing job, Zuko. I believe in you, and I'll be right here supporting you every step of the way."

As the days drew closer to their wedding, Sokka found himself actively involved in the preparations. The courtyard, transformed into a canvas of celebration, echoed with laughter, music, and the joyous anticipation of a union that bridged love and royalty.

On the eve of their wedding, Sokka stood beside Zuko as they looked out over the courtyard. The lanterns illuminated the space, casting a warm glow on the faces of those gathered to witness the union of two hearts. The tapestries, woven with threads of their shared journey, seemed to capture the essence of the moment.

As they exchanged vows in the courtyard, the emotions echoed through the night. The promises made, sealed with a kiss, marked the beginning of a new chapter for both Zuko and Sokka. The courtyard, adorned with flowers and lanterns, became a sacred space where their love was consecrated amidst the echoes of joy and celebration.

In the days that followed, Sokka and Zuko navigated the complexities of married life. The courtyard, now a shared space that held the resonance of their commitment, became a haven where they found solace and comfort in each other's arms.

One evening, as they sat together in the courtyard, Zuko spoke from the heart. "Sokka, being with you has brought a new richness to my life. I never imagined that love could be so transformative."

Sokka smiled, leaning in to kiss Zuko gently. "It's been an incredible journey, and I'm grateful for every moment. Our love is a tapestry woven with threads of laughter, tears, and shared dreams."

Zuko nodded, the courtyard serving as a backdrop to their shared reflections. The tapestries, once silent witnesses to Sokka's pain and healing, now held the vibrant hues of love and partnership. Together, Sokka and Zuko embraced the ever-unfolding narrative of their shared life in the heart of old China.

[zukoscomet]

Do you have any ideas about how Katara decides to stay in the fire nation and become a Fire Lady? I mean, many anti-Zutara say that Katara would never agree to rule a country that is to blame for the death of her mother, but I think that for Katara, the hope for a bright future of this country is much more important, but this is still a big step for her.

Hey, anon, thanks for the question!

Maybe I should start off by saying that I do think, for a take on ZK that's compliant with how it was left at the end of the show (i.e. Zuko is the Fire Lord, not Iroh), that Katara would need to spend a slim majority of her time in the Fire Nation for a few reasons:

From what we understand, the Fire Lord has an absolute rule over the Fire Nation and dictates the running of most things. Though I think Zuko would work on delegating and devolving power a lot in his reign, he couldn't do so much that would enable him to just leave the country for long, frequent stints without there being repercussions.

The position of Fire Lady, or whatever title you prefer for Katara as consort, would probably entail some responsibilities and Katara would surely take on a whole lot more. Some would be voluntary philanthropic stuff like building hospitals and schools, but I always imagine Katara in my fics as being almost Zuko's co-ruler - there's really not much that Zuko does that Katara isn't somehow involved in. She'd be a bit more free to come and go than him, but she'd still have responsibilities that need her attention. And also, she's married to Zuko because she loves him; she wants to be with him, not spending most of their time apart.

Kids would eventually come along and kids really need stability in their lives, like their home, school, friends, routines, hobbies, etc.

Obviously from my work, I disagree that the prospect of living in the Fire Nation/becoming Fire Lady would be a dealbreaker for Katara.

However, I do think that it would be an extremely complex issue for her and would pose a challenge in Katara and Zuko's romantic relationship, maybe even before it begins. I won't go into too much depth on this because it's an idea I'm exploring a little in a fic I'm working on currently, but I imagine that when Katara and Zuko start feeling a type of way about each other, they both clamp down and refuse to act on it because of the implications - Zuko thinking it'd be wrong and selfish of him to pursue a relationship that would oblige her to stay to some degree, Katara thinking that she is just not at all the right fit for the Fire Lord's consort, and both of them thinking that the other isn't interested in them that way anyway.

Rationality wouldn't be able to stop things from coming to the surface eventually, though, and I think when Katara and Zuko realise the feelings are reciprocated, they would both do some serious thinking as to whether they could have a future. For Zuko, this would probably be in more of a literal sense, like checking to see if the law allows it and testing the waters with people in high places.

For Katara, it would be about figuring out that she can make the position entirely her own. I imagine she would already be involved in a lot of projects helping both the SWT and the Fire Nation as Ambassador; maybe one day when she and Zuko are just starting out in their relationship, she'd get to thinking well, I could do all this as Fire Lady, couldn't I? Could I even do more? Katara would always have had the confidence to own her place, it's just she needed to know it was possible to get the ideas flowing. She'd realise that she can wear her blues and furs, that she wear her loopies and braids with a crown. She'd realise that she can still be a master waterbender, a master healer. She'd realise that she can still be of service in building up the Southern Water Tribe even when she's not there all the time, and she will be there a lot of the time visiting. She'd realise that her children would grow up being as proud of and as connected to their Water Tribe heritage as they would their Fire Nation. She'd realise that she can still be herself and be important in the world, and that Zuko would not only back her every mile but would always encourage her further.

Katara doesn't become the Fire Lady but the Fire Lady becomes Katara, so to speak, and that's how she decides it works.

[unfriedough]

hii! i have a request if that's ok .

for this request you can do either a modern au just just a regular avatarverse because i believe it works both ways (though i think its way better with modern)

basically the girls of the gaang out together for a little girls night out and the guys are just hanging out together. they talk about their girls a little bit but then a storm rolls in and its HEAVY. fiance!zuko (or husband) you know starts to panic a little bit because reader isn't really answering the phone (if chosen modern au), and theirs like a pretty ugly storm. reader DOES come back eventually soaking wet/sneezing and coughing, zuko is kind of like 😟😟, and the rest of the fic is just zu taking care of soaked and cold reader and its all fluff at the end!

💗💗

‘The common cold’- Modern!Zuko x female!reader

Masterlist <3

An: HIYA!  Literally, I love you. I LOVE MODERN AU’S IM SO HAPPY YOU REQUESTED!!!!!! 🫶 Side note: I’m aware it’s almost been like a month since I’ve posted, and I really don’t know what to say other than sorry! (Though, I can’t guarantee it won't happen again, school starts soon :’))

Summary:

Read request :) SET IN MODERN AU!!!

Warnings: stressed zuko tbh, super duper cheesey, pet names ig

“Last week, Suki took me bowling! It was sooo much fun!”

“Were you any good?” Aang replied, interested in Sokka’s most recent endeavours.

The boy huffed in return, hanging his head, “No, I flopped so hard, you don’t even know.” he paused, before looking back up, “What about you, what did you do?”

Aang grinned, “Katara and I spent the day indoors, bingeing her favourite show! To be completely honest, I didn’t really understand what was going on.” he frowned, before smiling as he recalled how she laughed at a joke he didn’t get, then looked at him in shock when she realised he didn’t laugh.

Aang turned to Zuko, tilting his head, waiting for him to add his own side of the story, Sokka doing the same. 

“What?”

“What did you and Y/n do?” the brown haired one asked, an encouraging look on his features.

He looked between the two, getting a middle school boy sleepover vibe from the atmosphere. Alas, he didn’t mind sharing, “We had a picnic by the beach.”

“Was it romantic?” Aang asked.

Zuko blinked twice in his direction - what else would it be?

“What do you think?”

“I’ll take that as a yes…” he rubbed his neck sheepishly.

“Anything else?” Sokka asked, feeling like he ended the conversation too fast.

Well, there were plenty of other things you did! You baked a few recipes you’d seen online, struggling to follow the complex instructions, causing a messy end result, but two very proud individuals. Zuko recalls lecturing you after you had some of the raw batter, and you simply wiped some off of the spoon and onto his nose - your husband wasn't very amused. You also made him take a few quizzes online, ranging from which (Favourite game) character are you, to what’s your love language, to ‘create a desert and we’ll tell you what kind of spouse you’re looking for!’. He was highly sceptical of the last one. By the end of that session, you had established that zuko was an introverted-triple chocolate fudge cookie-alien with no favourite colour - he was 99% sure that was inaccurate. Although, his favourite was when you two dressed in your most fanciest outfits, and danced around the house, bodies rhythmic and in sync, despite no music playing. Only sounds coming from the gentle hums leaving your body, content from being held by your lover. He wished that moment never ended, he wasn’t exactly sure how to tell you that a thought you had on a whim is now his go-to romantic activity. Maybe it was the silliness of it all, every new day punctuated with weird games and jokes. He was a fan though.

Sokka nodded, deciding not to push the man’s limits, and turned on the large tv. The movie playing was nothing more than a low budget horror film - if you could even refer to it as that. The CGI was poorly conducted, and the story line was nonsensical. Aang and Sokka enjoyed it though, ‘the tackier, the better’ - their words, not his. Just as the three relaxed into their seats on the large sofa, a loud jumpscare came up, the villain flashing onto the screen along with a horrible screech. It wouldn't have been that scary, if it weren’t for the sudden bolt of lighting striking the nearby ground. The younger two jumped, screaming, grabbing onto anything close to them.

Sokka nodded, deciding not to push the man’s limits, and turned on the large tv. The movie playing was nothing more than a low budget horror film - if you could even refer to it as that. The CGI was poorly conducted, and the story line was nonsensical. Aang and Sokka enjoyed it though, ‘the tackier, the better’ - their words, not his. Just as the three relaxed into their seats on the large sofa, a loud jumpscare came up, the villain flashing onto the screen along with a horrible screech. It wouldn't have been that scary, if it weren’t for the sudden bolt of lighting striking the nearby ground. The younger two jumped, screaming, grabbing onto anything close to them.

Sokka nodded, deciding not to push the man’s limits, and turned on the large tv. The movie playing was nothing more than a low budget horror film - if you could even refer to it as that. The CGI was poorly conducted, and the story line was nonsensical. Aang and Sokka enjoyed it though, ‘the tackier, the better’ - their words, not his. Just as the three relaxed into their seats on the large sofa, a loud jumpscare came up, the villain flashing onto the screen along with a horrible screech. It wouldn't have been that scary, if it weren’t for the sudden bolt of lighting striking the nearby ground. The younger two jumped, screaming, grabbing onto anything close to them.

“What was that!” Aang yelled, looking out of the window.

“Talk about bad timing.” Sokka sighed, the storm becoming more prominent outside.

The rain stuck to the big window, the outside view becoming more blurry. Zuko’s breath hitched as he realised you were out, immediately tugging at his phone, unlocking it, and searching for your contact.

“What’re you doing?” 

“Calling Y/n.”

“Oh my god.” Sokka immediately rushed to get his cellphone, Aang just as fast.

Zuko walked into your shared bedroom, picking at his fingers anxiously as he awaited the calling screen to switch from ringing to the numbers. As soon as he heard your voice he put the phone up to his ear.

“Yn where are-”

“Hi! This is Yn’s voicemail, please leave a message after the beep!” 

His heart sank, and he suddenly felt light headed. Zuko didn’t cope well under stress, especially when he didn’t know where you were.

And so he called again. And again. And again... Only to get no response. On the 7th try, it stopped ringing, only calling - you had no service. He officially couldn’t reach you.

“Any luck?” the ponytailed guy said, leaning on the door frame, staring at Zuko’s back, who was now sitting on the far edge of your shared bed.

Zuko shook his head, dropping it into his hands.

Sokka rounded the frame and sat next to him, rubbing his shoulder comfortingly,

“I’m sure she’s okay, her phone probably just died,” he smiled.

“Yeah but how about Suki or Katara or Toph? All of their phones died?”

“Suki never charges her phone before leaving the house, Katara’s phone probably got waterlogged, and Toph never answers anyways.” he shrugged, masking his anxiety with false coolness.

“I guess so,” they both knew that didn’t make Zuko feel better.

Just then, Aang ran into the room, heaving, “GUYS! KATARA’S CAR JUST PULLED INTO THE DRIVEWAY!” 

The boys immediately perked up, a bright smile on Sokka’s face. They sped to the door and opened it, finding you fumbling with your keys, with the three other girls behind you. Zuko’s face lit up, and he immediately engulfed you in probably the warmest hug you’ve ever felt.

“Hey,” you whispered, grinning. “I’m home,”

You knew he was probably anxious, judging by his shaky body, and furrowed brows. He had the tendency to project a face of anger when faced with fear and uncertainty. But you knew better. Zuko was just worried for you - and rightfully so.

He let you go afterwards, leaning back with his arms still on your elbows, examining the wetness on your clothes. 

“What took you so long?”

“It wasn’t long at all? The storm only got worse like 5 minutes ago?”

“It definitely didn’t feel like just 5 minutes, Yn” he said sternly, almost like that of a father to his kid who played in the mud. It was cute how worried he was.

Everyone stepped into the house, not forgetting to remove their shoes by the little shoe cabinet by the door, the one you decorated with stickers on a day much like this one, muddy and rainy. The stickers have since then chipped and faded, but the memory the hold within will always be sweet. You immediately went to your room, wincing at the feelings of your wet socks against the ground, a change of clothes being your objective. Zuko joined you in the room as you stripped down, throwing you a pile of fresh pj’s and socks. As you finally felt the warmth of the newly out of the laundry outfit, another, even stronger, warmth covered you. You leaned into him, the scent of his masculine perfume flooding your senses. It was one you picked out for him, seeing as though it smelt less like a scent and more like a feeling. Like the feeling of a cold winter day being ended with a cozy sleep under the soft sheets of a cabin, far in the woods. You loved it, and so did he. It’s been the one he’d dawned for ages now, refusing to swap it out no matter what. He sighed, kissing you softly. You pushed him away, shaking your head.

“Zuko, I think I’m sick. Don’t risk it.”

“Are you sure?” He said, eyes saddened, an irresistible pout on his face.

As if on cue, you sneezed. Not once, not twice but three times in a row, only slightly quieted by your sleeve. Your husband stared in shock, before snapping out of his trance and making his way to the medicine cabinet, passing you a pill for the common cold, mumbling things incoherently all the while. Whilst you took it, he gave suki, toph and katara some clothes you kept for sleepovers with your friends, he always loved your over the top preparations. Then, back to the room he went. He helped you under the soft, warm covers, pulling up the blankets to engulf your shaking body. Definitely a cold. Zuko’s hand was placed against your forehead, warm to the touch. Definitely a cold. Then he got the thermometer, it read 37 degrees Celsius. Yeah, definitely a cold. He sighed, shutting the lights as he left the room to let you rest, check in on the other couples + Toph in the guest bedrooms. Checking up on you again, he realised you fell asleep. Zuko neared your side of the bed cautiously, careful not to disturb your sleeping form. Gently, your lover neared his face to yours, planting an ever so gentle peck on your forehead, before moving back, standing up straight again. He sighed as he walked to the kitchen, already using his mobile phone to research different soup recipes, attempting to find one that actually seemed appetising.

The boy ended up settling on a classic, and began his cooking endeavour. Sure, he wasn’t the best at it, but the effort was there. As the mixture brewed, he moved on to making a drink. Hot chocolate. The brown mixture was being stirred by the spoon as he added sugar, before topping it with three marshmallows, soft and squishy - much like how he was acting, soft and- well maybe not squishy. Moving on from the beverage, he used a ladle to scoop some of the soup into a bowl, then put the bowl onto a tray, beside the drink. He texted the group chat to let the other boys know to grab some soup for the sick if they wanted, before shutting his phone. His sole attention needed to be on you and you only. He took off his home slippers, the cheap ones you bought him as a joke - but he’d grown to love, and stepped into the room, socked feet barely making a single noise. He carefully slotted the tray on his bedside table, and slowly got into the bed, staring at you all the while. Zuko’s arm carefully stroked your covered arms, his feather light touch calling you out of your sweet dreams and into your very lightheaded reality. You groaned, shaking a bit after gaining consciousness.

“Hey love, I made you some soup.” you turned over, Zuko’s eyes staring lovingly at you. 

You smiled, slowly sitting up so you could consume it. As you reached for the spoon, he pulled it back, looking at you with an eyebrow raised. “I don’t even want you to move a muscle.” you rolled your eyes, and he fed you a spoon full of the soup, the flavours actually quite nice to the taste.

“Hm, where’d you get this?”

“Why? You don't like it?”

“No, the opposite actually,” you laughed dryly, your throat hoarse.

“Oh” he blushed a little, “I made it.”

“You’ve improved!” you giggled, “They grow up so fast!” you wiped a mock tear from your eye.

He swatted your hand away from your face, a fake angry look on his face, “No moving,”

Although, nothing could disguise the blush from the compliments. He was always a sucker for your affection. Could you blame him though?

Zuko slotted the spoon of broth into your mouth again, the hot liquid running down your throat, helping to warm it momentarily. He then leaned back, passing you the cup of hot chocolate, which he had fit into your favourite cup warmer. Your hands gently brushed his as you took the drink, a grateful smile on your features, one that warmed his nerve wrecked heart. He couldn’t help but smile back.

“Mmm,” you mumbled into the mug, “It’s so good, thank you,”

He hummed in acknowledgment, placing the half finished soup aside after you signalled you don’t want any more, before going back to his original criss-cross sitting style. He watched you gulp the drink down intently.

“Careful, it’s hot.” his voice rang as you took the final sip of the concoction. 

“You’re hot,” you replied, lowering the cup from your face. 

He chuckled, hiding his bashfulness with his hands, “Shut up,”

Collecting the mug from your hands, the boy popped it onto the tray on the bedside table, turning his attention back to you. A sigh left his lips as he checked your temperature, you sniffling in the process. You grabbed his hand off of your forehead, lowering it to your cheek, and pressing a gentle kiss into it. 

“I’m fine Zuko, it’s just a cold,”

“Luckily. Could've been worse.”

“And how so?”

“I- uh,” he paused, “I don’t know. Just could’ve,”

“We’ll, it wasn’t. I’m here, I’m safe, and I’m with you. Nothing to worry about sweetie,” 

He shrugged, anything could happen after all. 

You cupped his cheeks, your cold hands causing him to scrunch his nose. You giggled at your husband’s reaction, kissing the top of his head lovingly. He stared at you with wide, adoring eyes, and you tucked a lock of his hair behind his ear. 

“Thank you zuko,” you whispered to him, a grin on your face.

He tilted his head sideways, thank you for what? You understood the implication of the motion.

“For taking care of me,”

“It’s the bare minimum.”

You laughed, “it’s still sweet”

He mumbled something against your palms, something about your standards being weirdly low, before kissing your hand - an act of physical love he learned from you. 

Slowly, zuko removed your arms from his face and laid you down again, pulling the blanket over your body once again. Your fever had gone down drastically now that you’ve eaten and had something warm for your throat. But you were still severely dehydrated. He pointed to the drink next to you - water obviously - and said the following: “If you get thirsty, please drink, it’s right there.”

And you nodded happily, eyes already droopy. A yawn left your mouth as you rolled over, going from a position on your back to a position facing him - on your side. You watched him through half lidded eyes get up and change out of the clothes he was in, in favor of putting on fresh pj’s. He rolled his eyes playfully as he noticed your stare, leaving the room as he tugged the shirt over his head. 

The man’s socked feet made a pitter patter type noise as he traversed the hall which housed the rooms your friends were staying in, making sure they were cozy and situated, and alerting them of the different toiletries and essentials you had stocked for this occasion. He gave the men some of his spare pajamas, before leaving to head back to you, a good night leaving his lips as he does. He yawned as he entered the room again, slipping under the sheets next to you. Zuko watched your chest rise and fall with each breath, reminding himself that you were here, and you were safe. Though, he couldn’t sleep. Not one bit. His body was tired, but sleep wasn’t coming to him. For the simple reason that you weren’t by his side, snuggled up against him. He knew you would yell at him if he cuddled up with you, he would get sick after all. But what’s a little cold gonna do? Careful not to wake you up, he scooted closer, wrapping an arm around you. Your body gladly accepted the invitation, spreading your arms over his waist, and your head onto his shoulder. Content, he sighed, a smile playing on his lips, knowing this is the calm before the storm - the storm being the lecture he was bound to hear first thing in the morning. ‘Zuko you could’ve gotten sick!’ He laughed at the thought, your angry face being far too cute for anyone to ever be threatened. His thoughts wandered, mostly circulating around you, before his eyes fell heavy, and his breathing got deeper, his mind lulling into a soft, sleepy trance.

An: lol

[pinkrabit]

(Written as I watch, so basically annotating)

"I didn't ask to be special." "Can't I just keep pretending I'm your friend?" I feel like this fits, so far.

Poor aang just got told "hey I know ur twelve but you gotta save the world."

I feel like gyatso's actor nailed this, all things considered.

The doubt aang has about stopping the war, and him just wanting to be normal

Him scared of being alone and not wanting the responsibility and then AVOIDING IT ALL

It seems pretty on brand so far. The bending is a little choppy but, by agni, is it better than the movie.

The firenation under sozin during the comment doesn't quite feel as brutal as it could be, but ya know. Netflix.

Aang is in the iceberg.

KATARA, MY BELOVED.

I appreciate acknowledging her trying to teach herself.

I do kinda hate the lack of sexism in sokka's character. You should see characters make bad choices and watch them fix and CHANGE TO BE BETTER.

I like the banter between Katara and Sokka though.

"Sulk later, paddle now." seems on brand for him.

The outfits are so good, especially compared to the movie.

"What is that?" Your future husband in a different life. A person who is as devoted and worshipping of you as you are of him.

ZUKO, MY ANGSTY BOY IS DOODLING

Yes, Katara try to bend!

Why does zuko have a yangchen figurine???

WHY IS KATARA SO MELLOW??? Sugar Queen can't chill, we all know this.

Aang, my boy, you have risen.... and fallen.

"a mysterious little bald person.... great! Let's bring him home!" The sarcasm feels okay. I'm not gonna anti this yet.

GRAN GRAN

Why are there so many young boys that should be out fighting the war???? That was part of Sokka's story!! Him feeling the need to overcompensate because he took on too much.

Zuko immediately getting defensive about the light and Iroh being like "are you sure??" feel acceptable. He really is just a boy that wants to go home. The avatar isn't a person to him, it's a goal.

Aangs post "coma" nightmare is a good touch.

There's my sweet Sokka's paranoia and snark ♡♡♡♡

Where did aang get that whistle??? He's supposed to spend the limited money they have to get it.

AANG GETTING FED UP AND SASSY IS EVERYTHING (my favorite part of his character in the original series)

Gran gran stealing Katara's lines. Calm down old timer.

Aang looking guilty and awkward when she mentions the avatar feels so important. He looks like a scolded child, because he is. Him standing to defend himself only to run away instead, once again, feels true enough to his character.

Zuko’s attitude <333 I love this proud, pretentious little guy.

Katara checking on him as Aang processes the death of his friends and family, with or without the comet. And her empathizing!!!

Her grief when remembering her mother. "we're never really ready until we have to be" could fit in so well in Book 3 in the OG series.

"We hope." Ember Island players would approve.

Zuko's bending!!!! Jasmine tea!!!

I feel like Zuko could be more explosive in his anger, however, him telling his uncle "You're wrong." Feels right.

KATARA YOU GET OUT OF THAT SHIP RIGHT NOW! I COULD LET IT GO THE FIRST TIME YOUNG LADY BUT NOT ANYMORE

Katara wanting to do more for her people and wanting to fight is an important part of her original character, so I'm glad it's here, too.

"You just have to let go."

I love the SWT being run by teenagers.

"Because he's a coward! He ran and people died!" "Katara. Now." Not mad yet.

Zuko feels too diplomatic. He sounds so soft threatening to burn the village.

"Remember what mom told us too!" Her and her mom, her empathizing, her preaching hope.

In the original katara needed hope, and aang needed it, too. They are so important to each other.

"Lord of Snow and.... Ice.."

Sokka's audacity as a warrior, but one inexperienced in defending against bending, sends me.

Aang shows up. Ready to defend others. But not himself.

WHERE IS "you're just a child!" "Well, you're just a teenager!"

"No one has ever fought for me before." I'm gonna cry. Aang, sweet boy, EYE will fight for you.

Sokka's immediate guilt after, and then trying to set up a second in command feels so good to see.

Iroh doesn't give off "tortured war criminal redeemed" Kinda sad about Uncle War Crimes. Gives off more political diplomat than refined advisor.

Yes, Iroh. Offer this kid tea before he's shipped to his death.

Sokka's skepticism to bending and bending adjacents!!!

Aang. Stop looking at the knickknacks you're going to get caught and die.

WHERE WAS THE FIGHTING???? AANG JUST GOT TO DIP???

nevermind

Nevermind that nevermind

"Hey, kid." Sokka. My boy. You are 16.

WHERE WAS KATARA ADAPTING TO HER FAULTY TECHNIQUES. She spends one day with the avatar and suddenly she's a master??? I better see some struggle with her bending. I better see some rage in later episodes.

Aang's disbelief at the temple. Oh. My poor boy.

Aang's grief sounding like he's about to have a panic attack then being Jumpstart intl the avatar state is appreciated.

"I can't imagine a better person to be given this power."

Aang being able to calm himself down is actually so important to me. I can't explain why, but Katara just being there after, and seeing him upset. It feels like him realizing his old life and friends are forever gone, and he's willing to let Katara in.

"I need to make sure they didn't die in vain" reminds me of the finale. Where when he chose to let Ozai live, he was preserving his culture and values. He didn't let the culture die with Ozai.

So far, I feel like the comments I saw were pretty fucking harsh about this series.

Hear me out, this is before I start watching.

I'm not entirely upset at changing aang from a carefree child to a depressed savior of the world.

Imagine ur 12, ur goofing off having a good time. You're a prodigy!

You get told the entire world is now your responsibility.

Don't you think some chemical changes would happen and some mental illness is gonna be kickstarted??

I understand that's his whole arc throught the original series, which is near and dear to my heart, but I'm not mad his self doubt and insecurities started early.

I am a little frustrated that he sort of turned into Korra's characterization of "the avatar learning to be human" instead of angst intial arc. Which I'm gonna boil down to "a human learning to be the avatar."

It's still early on though. I'll have to see.

[peony-pearl]

Fire Fam ideas that make me happy but idk if I’ll ever write them so they just rotate in my brain

- Ursa and Ozai chose to get married. They have an... odd relationship, obviously; but while they often don’t seem too happy around each other, there’s no denying that there’s some kind of bizarre spark. They don’t tell anyone, but there are nights when Ursa gets to shine and be dominating. She’s happily sworn to secrecy.

- When Azula was only a couple years old, a group of Earthbenders successfully breached the palace while she was outside playing. Before Ozai or Ursa could do anything, little Zuko found power in a fight or flight response and he fended them off. Ozai carried his son inside as he asked if he did a good job, to which Ozai replied ‘you did, I’m very proud of you’ - Ozai kissed his forehead then promptly set him on the floor to scoop Azula up out of Ursa’s arms, not paying attention to Zuko for the rest of the day.

- Ozai never cared for the plays at Ember Island, and neither did Lu Ten, but the kids usually ended up seeing them twice for two reasons: once so Ursa could see them while Lu Ten stayed behind (either hanging out with uncle Ozai or other men his age), and then while Ursa stayed behind to have some alone time with her husband. Azula always ends up climbing into someone’s lap, not even looking at them or paying attention to their frustration because she wants a better view, she’ll sit there staring while the person who’s lap she’s occupying has to crane around to see what’s happening. This is also a good reason for the adults to see the play twice so hopefully during one of the shows they’ll actually get to see the whole thing. (Lu Ten doesn’t care if she does it, it’ll just allow him an excuse to take a nap)

- Lu Ten can kind of have a crabby demeanor. He doesn’t hate anyone, but he was raised very, very militarian, and despite his and his father’s princely titles, Lu Ten feels more bound by structure and discipline than most. When duties are on his plate, he takes him very seriously, whether in the Fire Nation or on the battlefield, so when pulled away, even by family, he can become very irritable. However, catch him on downtime, and he’s the funniest and most loyal man you’ve ever met.

- Iroh was engaged to a noblewoman, but war efforts made it hard for them to have a proper courtship. He had a favored little girlfriend at a tea shop, who he romanced without telling her who he was, and she became pregnant - when she told him, he was ecstatic. He told Azulon, who was irate, but he hid that he was relieved that Iroh was FINALLY going to have an heir. The courtship with the noblewoman was called off, and Azulon only allowed the woman to stay at the palace until Lu Ten was born. When Lu Ten no longer needed her for nursing, she was then escorted to a colony in the Earth Kingdom. This broke Iroh’s heart and he did everything he could to be a good father to Lu Ten.

- Because of Iroh’s refusal to marry after the issue with Lu Ten’s mother (And Azulon’s expectations on him during the war), Azulon often hounded Ozai and Ursa to have more children. They did end up expecting a third child, which was born during Iroh’s time in Ba Sing Se, but the baby had many handicaps, and didn’t survive long. This put a bigger wedge between Ozai and Azulon’s relationship.

- Iroh noticed Ozai’s treatment of the kids was getting harsher and harsher; he was at war often, so he brought it to Azulon’s attention. Azulon, however, was not too interested. He strictly told Iroh his mind belonged on the battlefield, and training Lu Ten, his actual son. When Iroh tried to press on, Azulon berated him for the first time, and the middle-aged Iroh may as well have turned into a child again, being chastised by his crumbling, beloved father.

- When Iroh returned from his spirit journey, both Zuko and Azula welcomed him with fairly open arms. Zuko saw a chance to have an older family member to finally bond with, while Azula, now much more clever and powerful, saw her old mentor, even if he had become old and overweight in just a few years, she paid no heed to it. Because of them, Iroh had a much more decent homecoming than he’d expected, even if Ozai turned Lu Ten’s old room into storage.

- When Zuko was burned and Iroh decided to accompany him, Azula cornered Iroh, livid. She shouts at him that ‘Zuko should go alone to learn his lesson’. But there’s panic in her voice. She tells him that when Zuko messes up, it’s always on her to keep upholding Ozai’s perfect expectations and it’s not fair that Iroh is choosing Zuko, who keeps messing up, over staying in the Fire Nation to help the family (I.E. help her; but she won’t admit that). Iroh listens to her, but tells her the decision has been made. She pushes him, telling him to leave, ‘just like everyone else’, and she storms off, not seeing him or Zuko when they leave.

[absolutelyfizzing]

cruel and spiteful

anon - If you take requests, can I have Zuko X reader, where Zuko tells them about his scar?

description - zuko tells y/n how he got his scar. he also has a very important question to ask her. (established!zuko x reader)

warnings - fluff, some tears, description of violence and abuse (no more vivid than is in the show), no connection to the content after the original series, some kissing, zuko is aged up (probably 20-24 years old)

word count - 1700

a/n - I tried on this one but I make no promises that its good

MASTERLIST

You stayed in peaceful silence next to your boyfriend as you read and he worked. Your leg was draped over one of his so you could have some contact but not enough that either of you would get distracted. You often thought about how thankful you were that you could have moments like this. That you had been together long enough and were comfortable enough with each other that you could spend evenings like this.

Zuko fidgeted a bit in his place and you glanced over at him. He had bags under his eyes and they looked red. You knew that he had been overworking himself lately and not getting enough sleep. Many nights he would come to bed after you had fallen asleep and then leave before you woke up simply because there was so much for him to do. You also knew that you wanted to take care of him and to let him know that his mental well-being was just as important as getting his list of tasks done. At that thought, you closed your book and sat up a bit.

"Zuko?" you asked quietly, not wanting to disturb the peace in the room.

"Hm?" he hummed out but he did not look up from his work.

"Zuko, honey, you have to stop working for a minute." You tried to reason but he just huffed. You didn't say anything else but you slowly moved to take his things off of his lap, giving him time to finish reading the paragraph he was on. He let you slip the papers into your hands and you placed them on his nearby desk. You stood silently and grabbed his hand to pull him up.

He didn't complain or make any indication that he didn't want to get up as you led him to your shared bathroom. You had him brush his teeth and you pulled his hair into a bun for him before you both headed back to bed, this time in your pajamas and with the intent of going to sleep.

"Actually, can you mess with my hair?" he almost whispered. He requested you touch his hair every so often because he loved the feeling of your fingers carding through it.

"Of course, my love," you assured and he smiled at you.

You sat on the bed, your back against the headboard. He laid next to you so his head was on your lap and you were looking down at him. You began to brush through his hair with your fingers, running your nails along his scalp. His eyes closed at the feeling as he sighed. You could tell that the anxiety of the day was leaving him.

After you had been brushing through his hair for some time and his breathing had evened out, you moved to run your fingers over the lines of his face. You just assumed that he was asleep from how calm and still he seemed. Your fingers traced along his brow lines and his eyes. You moved them down towards the shape of his nose and then his jaw. When you moved back up his face, you traced along the edges of his scar. You never asked him about it and you didn't actually know how he got it. You were from the earth kingdom and had never heard any conversation around the palace about it so you assumed that he was in some sort of accident. You knew that he would eventually tell you how it happened if he wanted to. As you were lost in thought you hadn't even noticed that his eyes were open, gazing at you from your lap. When you accidentally met his gaze, you flinched, like you had been caught doing something wrong.

"You can touch it, it's okay." He whispered out to reassure you and you hesitated before tracing it again. "Have you already heard the story?" he questioned. He knew that you hadn't known much about him when you met and that stories around the palace had ceased, mostly because it was old news and he no longer seemed self-conscious about it.

You shook your head shyly.

"Do you want to?"

You made eye contact with him. "If you don't mind telling it." You tried to make sure that he knew he didn't have to. He smiled up at you and sat up from your lap. He moved so that he was sitting in front of you, legs crossed under him to match yours. His knees were touching yours and he pulled your hands onto his lap. He looked up into your eyes and felt anxiety despite your non-judgemental gaze. He paused for a moment.

"My father did it." He started, looking at your face as you gasped a bit but you tried not to react, wanting him to continue uninterrupted. "When I was younger, I think I was thirteen, I sat in on a war meeting with my father and his advisors." His gaze had drifted down towards where your fingers were tangled with his.

"I disagreed with something, I spoke up. One of the generals had recommended sacrificing men as bait for a trap and I felt like I had to say something. It was seen as an act of disrespect so my father told me I would be fighting in an agni kai to settle the matter."

You kept your gaze on his face. You had only seen one agni kai in your time in the fire nation and it was not something you wished to see again. You struggled to believe anyone would expect a thirteen-year-old to fight in such a match.

"When I showed up, I had assumed I would fight the general, that was who I disagreed with. Instead, my father stepped forward to fight me. I knew I couldn't have won but I also didn't want to fight him because he was my father and I didn't want to show him violence. I got on my knees and asked him to forgive me but he saw it as a sign of weakness."

Zuko took a deep breath. He hadn't had to tell this story in a while and remembering the traumatic fight made him feel emotional.

"He burned me for my vulnerability. I was then exiled by my father, my scar a brand to let the kingdom know of my shame, and he sent me on my impossible mission to find the avatar. To find Aang." He finished, looking up to your gaze again. He was a bit surprised to see tears streaming down your face and he immediately cooed at you, shushing you and wiping your tears away.

You let out a broken sob and he brought his hand to the back of your neck to pull you into him so your face rested against his shoulder. Your fingers moved so that they were latched onto his shirt. You cried quietly for a few minutes, Zuko's hand soothing you by rubbing along your back.

"I'm so sorry." You whispered out. Zuko didn't respond immediately, thinking about his answer. For a while he would have said 'it's okay or 'i had it coming' but he now knew that it wasn't true. That it was cruel and he shouldn't have had to go through that.

"I'm okay now." He decided on and you nodded against him. You sat up a bit and moved your hand to cup his jaw on the side of his scar, your thumb just barely grazing over the edge of it.

"You are beautiful." You breathed out and Zuko was surprised by your words but they almost brought tears to his eyes. "Your father was a cruel and spiteful man and for him to have taken his anger out on his own child when you were just a kid is heartbreaking. I'm so sorry you had to go through that and I am so proud of you for having become such an amazing man in spite of your cruel upbringing."

You wiped away the single tear that trailed down his face.

"Will you marry me?" He whispered out, surprising himself a bit. He had of course been planning on proposing to you but he had a plan set up months from now. It was elaborate and romantic but as he sat in front of you, he wanted to be able to say he was your husband as soon as possible. Your face cracked into a smile and you giggled a bit. Zuko wanted to hear that sound for the rest of his life.

"Of course I will, Firelord Zuko." Your words reminded you of your future and your face paled a bit. Zuko was ecstatic that you said yes but worried as your face showed anxiety. "I'm going to be royalty." You choked out, your fear showing. You had, of course, hoped that you would be spending the rest of your life with Zuko, but you had never given your future rank much thought. Zuko let out a laugh at your realization.

"You already are." He added and you quirked your eyebrow in question. "You are the person I care for the most in the world, you are my closest advisor and you help me in all of my decisions, you are under my protection at all times. You are already queen in practice, just not in title. You will rule by my side as an equal as you already do. As you have done for the last 2 years."  

You smiled at his reassurance and leaned forward to pull him into a searing kiss. You hoped that he could feel all of the emotions you were trying to express through it. He hummed against your lips and brought his hand up to rest in your hair. When you both pulled away, out of breath, he leaned his forehead against yours.

"I love you." He mumbled out and you smiled.

"Nowhere near as much as I love you." you replied easily.

[theowritesfiction]

'Zuko Alone'

Ah, this iconic episode. Again, this has been analyzed to death and thousands of metas written about it, I'm not going to get into it that deeply. I'm just putting down my gut reactions as I watch and award Jerk Points where necessary.

I suppose this is the episode that really drills in the idea that Zuko is now on his redemption arc. I'm not sure Zuko should deserve applause for not robbing a man and his pregnant wife, but baby steps I guess. (I really have to wonder how Zuko was not freaking out about his 'honor' when he stole Song's chocobo). Also, Zuko reveals having a sudden sense of dry humor? Maybe a chicken flew over? Boy's got hidden talents.

The meat of the chapter is obviously the flashbacks. The turtleduck pond scene between Zuko and Ursa is sweet. Is this where the Azula throws rocks at turtleducks myth comes from? But Zuko actually throws a whole loaf at the ducks and says that Azula FEEDS the ducks like that. He wouldn't say 'feed' if Azula threw rocks at them. Is it unthinkable that Azula would throw rocks at the ducks? No, it's not. But this isn't evidence for it.

aww cute little dangerous ladies :) they are so sweet. obviously, Azula is a rather mean spirited child, but we know and love her anyway. I love her scheming even at this young age. It's just fascinating the way her mind works, being aware of Mai's crush on Zuko, and creating an opportunity for a bit of a mean prank. I don't believe that Mai was in any danger here, Azula's firebending is too precise, and Mai shows absolutely no fear. She only freaks out when Zuko charges at her. Also, I love Ty Lee just finding the whole thing hilarious.

Ah, good old warmonger Iroh, cheerfully laughing about burning down Ba Sing Se. Let's see, 30 hypocrite points to Iroh. Extra 20 points for sending Azula that stupid doll, and another 10 points for enabling the whole stupid doll discourse. Azula wanting her dad to become the next Fire Lord is completely valid, what's wrong with Ursa for not supporting her husband and Zuko for not supporting his father? Don't you guys know how getting to the top in hereditary monarchy works? Read a history book.

I don't really have too much to say about Zuko's time with Lee and his family. Learning that doing the right thing can be difficult and thankless is an important step on Zuko's journey.

Azula and Zuko's reaction to Iroh abandoning the siege of Ba Sing Se was very interesting. Okay, 9 year old Azula is completely insensitive - big whoop she's 9 - but she's also completely right, and Iroh will be seen as a disgrace and a quitter in the eyes of the whole nation. I imagine that Azula's disrespect for Azulon comes from her being subjected to Ozai's fantasies about how he should be the Fire Lord. So when Ursa berates her and then asks 'what is wrong with that child?' my reaction is - SHE IS YOUR CHILD, you goddamn stupid cow, maybe you should find out? 150 Jerk Points to Ursa.

Ozai showcasing Azula's firebending talent to Azulon and being so proud of her and then frowning when Zuko attempts to impress his grandfather, yeah, top tier parenting is in full force. Just for this, 100 Jerk Points to Ozai. Also, Ursa telling Zuko how proud she is with him for trying, but not saying a word about Azula's flawless performance? Yeah, she's playing favorites too. 50 more Jerk Points.

I think I get why the fandom loves Azulon so much, it's because he acts so outraged about Ozai's suggestion to betray Iroh, and the fandom loves Iroh, so... Azulon is clearly a great guy, right? The great guy then decides that as punishment Ozai should also lose his firstborn son. (300 Jerk Points) Also, sure Azula is very mean spirited, but she IS warning Zuko about Azulon's intentions and telling the truth. She is probably even going against Ozai's wishes on this. But yeah, Azula ALWAYS lies, sure.

Ursa leaving is obviously a very traumatic and defining moment in Zuko's life, as he loses his greatest ally and supporter at the court. I like how for Zuko all the events of what happened behind the scenes still remain shrouded in mystery. Obviously, Azula is being a horrible mean gremlin to Zuko, but come on - it's a sibling rivalry, and Zuko has just lost his great defender. Of course Azula is enjoying what she thinks is her victory lap.

Obviously, this is one of the most lauded episodes in the entire show, and I can easily see why. I am somewhat surprised that Ozai earned fewer Jerk Points than I expected - but he is barely a character in this, he's more of a threatening, looming presence.

Also, this episode just made me realize how much I needed a similar look at the fire sibling childhood at the royal court, only from Azula's perspective. I think we would have gotten something like that if Book 4 had happened...

Jerk Points for Book 2:

Azulon - 300 Iroh - 210 Ursa, General Fong  - 200 Zuko - 120 Ozai - 100 Aang, Bumi, Lao Beifong - 50 Sokka - 40 Pakku - 30

[mostly-mundane-atla]

Fire Nation Royal Family headcanon compilation

Azulon:

Grew impaient with age. The brutality was always there but typically wrapped in silky words and masked with a reasonable, at times even charming, demeanor

Some examples include him telling his wife she couldn't refuse him but offering anything she thought might make it easier on her, learning the pipa and playing for her before getting into her bed when she said music, and telling a distraught Ursa he wouldn't grant her a divorce but could always replace Ozai if he was doing more harm for the arrangment than good, adding that any man of the royal family would do. Unlike his wife, who grew enamored with his playing and let her lack of choice become lack of desire to do otherwise, Ursa was struck deeply by the threat. It chilled her to the bone that he would sooner kill his own son than undo a royal marriage and may even intend to sire her children himself afterward.

He had a love of insects, would study them and all the intricate details of their little bodies, often painting diagrams with fine brushes. He also never kept them as pets and had no problem crushing them between his hands when he was finished admiring them. Many personal attendents of his suppose he liked having power over life in all its forms, and some others say it was to remind himself not to keep anything he didn't need

He had promised his wife he would never strike their sons with his rings on. Iroh earned Azulon's ire far less frequently than Ozai, but they both learned to watch for him subtly removing his rings as he sent the servants away for other chores. At one point Azulon told Ozai he ought to be grateful for that promise because it was the only reason he still had teeth in his skull all these years later.

Iroh:

Was a heavy drinker at celebrations. Not even fine wine, anything would do. Though he indulged himself on the drink even more after the death of his son, the habit was far older than that, and one he wasn't proud to claim.

General house staff concensus is that Ozai is the more handsome brother, but one servant girl openly preferred him instead. She was a shameless gossip so he would occasionally invite her to chat and used that to influence the rumors she spread around. When he asked why she prefered him, she admitted that she likes softer men and he fit the bill better than his brother.

Helped Ursa by inviting her for tea and dismissing the servants so no one could report he was steeping it with abortifacents. She hadn't been ready to try for another so soon after Zuko was born but her husband was insistant. He knew others would take what they saw as evidence of a trist and played into it. Ursa wasn't entirely comfortable with the idea, but knew it was the best way to explain the privacy they needed and wouldn't deny it.

His love of music was inspired by his mother, and often he wondered if the way his father used it made his enjoyment of it impure.

Ozai:

Very aware of how relatively little power he had, being the secondborn son of the Firelord, and held onto as much of the little things he had. Parenting decisions was one of them

Dealt with bitter jealousy constantly in his brother's shadow as they grew up. He considered his marriage to Ursa the one thing he had that his brother didn't and was proud to have her as his pretty wife. Rumors of her taking tea with his brother, with the curtains closed and the servants dismissed only made it worse.

His abuse of his wife was mainly verbal, but did get physical when he let his jealousy take over. It very rarely came to blows but more often involved grabbing her where her clothes would cover hard enough to bruise and not letting go until she promised only he would see that part of her body. This contrasted garishly with the praises and shows of affection he paid her when he she was in a state or displaying a behavior he approved of.

In her infancy, Azula never cried when Ozai held her.

He didn't approve of the gentle way Lu Ten was raised, but refrained from saying anything, lest his father consider it worth taking off his rings

Ursa:

Was given a number of treatments by royal physicians, who claimed that they were preventative measures to keep her from getting sick on rich palace food or from visitors' servants, starting the day after her wedding. On recognizing her uncomfortable side effects to be similar to those of fertility treatments and sedatives, she refused to continue taking them, and after a time the side effects returned. She realized they were being given to her through her food. She got an unearned reputation as a drunk for how many places she's lost consciousness due to it.

She found herself disgusted by and on rare occasions pitying her husband's willingness to play his part as the stud bull.

Understood that Ozai had hoped he could be happy with her and love her the way his parents loved each other, but claimed she didn't want him to love her so she made it difficult. When his browbeating and condescending proved too much for her to bear, she would bait him into hurting her where he and everyone else would have to see the mark it left.

Demanded her own room with her own bed but dropped it when her husband said that it wouldn't stop him and the Firelord wouldn't want it to anyway.

At the first signs that Zuko was healthy enough to survive through childhood, he was given to a wet nurse without her knowledge or permission. She didn't even get a chance to nurse Azula herself and resented everyone in the palace for leaving her to try and fail defending her right to feed her children from her own body without any help.

Lu Ten:

Had a schoolboy crush on Ursa that never actually matured into anything entirely selfless.

Raised on ideas of valor and glory and nobility that taught him to be a perfect prince but perfect princes don't ask themselves introspective questions about what they want and what would be best for the good of others and if the two are actually the same. They don't have to. They are bred to know these things already.

Betrothed to marry Azula when she came of age, which disgusted him, but made a vow to be the kind of man she wouldn't mind having to marry. If it had to be this way, he wanted it to be as painless for her as possible.