#or: the au in which zuko is the uncle and iroh is the nephew. but they still (look) the same age | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

king-bumis-armpit · 7 months ago

Text

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

30 notes · View notes

sawpaingsheadband · 5 months ago

Text

The very personal ramblings about an AtlA AU by yours truly: A thread.

Look, listen. I am not making up a plot, because this is more like "which one is a bender/non-bender and what element were they bending if they were in an AtlA Universe".

That's all I have.

I am gonna take into consideration mainly AtlA. Feel free to suggest/discuss in comments, reblogs and replies <3

I am gonna insert a cut bc I assume it's gonna be long. Also, it's probably going to be several posts, sorry about this. It's gonna be 4-5 characters per post.

PREMISE

I am going to base my ramblings off the quote Uncle Iroh says to Zuko when he starts training again his nephew in S2, most notably the following:

[Drawing the Fire Nation symbol in the dirt] Fire is the element of power. The people of the Fire Nation have desire and will, and the energy and drive to achieve what they want. [Drawing the Earth Kingdom symbol] Earth is the element of substance. The people of the Earth Kingdom are diverse and strong. They are persistent and enduring. [Drawing the Air Nomad symbol] Air is the element of freedom. The Air Nomads detached themselves from worldly concerns, and they found peace and freedom. [pause] And they apparently had great senses of humor. [Drawing the Water Tribe symbol] Water is the element of change. The people of the Water Tribes are capable of adapting to many things. They have a sense of community and love that holds them together through anything.

I am going to also consider my gut feeling, the characters personalities and all variables.

I am not taking into consideration LoK just because there are a lot of things that conflict directly with AtlA and also I am not trying to swing a bat towards a nest of particularly nasty wasps.

That said, here I am with the first part of my ramblings.

THE FIGHTERS

I am starting with them just because it's easier.

Tokita Ohma: I think he would be a waterbender. The water kata in the Niko style comes to my mind, I think the whole redirection speaks a lot of waterbending. He also like gains friends and gets along with everyone. He relies a lot on their support, starting from Yamashita Kazuo and then all of the other fighters. His approach is a "go with the flow" kind and overall I think it'd be perfect for a waterbender. Would he be the Avatar? Eh. Meh. Boring. I kind of am thinking of Koga as the Avatar, but I will discuss this later.

Kiryu Setsuna: I am having a lot to deliberate about him. Do I want him to be a bender? Nah. He would be Fire Nation, but in the way Mai is Fire Nation. He'd be a deadly hand-to-hand fighter, that's sure, he probably has practiced a lot, but I don't think he would be a bender at all. The man wants to NOT be flashy and firebending would really go against his "keeping a low profile" kind of schtik. Now, would he be a POISONS master? Hell yeah. He knows his herbs and will use them to harm, opposite to Dr. Hanafusa, who has the same skillset, but a different ethic around using that.

Gaolang Wongsawat: now, I think he would be a perfect Earthbender (tiger style). Enduring, solid, facing stuff head on, etc. I have also seen the punches and the kicks this man lands, they are as solid as the crust of the earth. I don't think he is good with changes and he needs something really big for him to do stuff differently. He is a very good earthbending master and he probably does the earthbending tournaments too. Hope he has not fought the Blind Bandit yet lol.

Hatsumi Sen: now, here is another easy one. He would be an airbender. Would he be an ORTHODOX airbender? Oh absolutely not. He'd be a nightmare, but his techniques are flawless and he has got the spirit of an airbender. And also a very good sense of humour lol, though Shino would not find it amusing. He technically is a master, practically he was never formally recognized due to the whole being unorthodox and lax following of the rules.

Yoroizuka Saw Paing: now, here I am very undecided, but I think that based on his backstory I can concoct something. Now, I fully believe he is a firebender all the way, but because his dad and his older brother died, then I think he would have been taken by the in-universe equivalent of Kiyoshi Island (Village of the Dawn?), and so the community and the village made him change. He may or may not be an honorary member of the Kiyoshi warriors, firebending and all.

---

Thoughts? Comments? Who should I do next?

#kenganverse #kengan ashura #kengan omega #kengan atla au #yoroizuka saw paing #gaolang wongsawat #tokita ohma #kiryu setsuna #hatsumi sen

14 notes · View notes

attackfish · 2 years ago

Note

What are your headcanons for an AU in which Mai is Iroh's daughter?

1. So the first thing I have to do when constructing an au like this is determine what would be the default that this AU is deviating from, and from anon we know very little about Iroh's family. We know he has a son, lieuten, who is roughly 10 years older than his brother's oldest child, Zuko, and we can surmise from this that he must have had a female companion at some point. Since we don't ever see ozai questioning his nephew's legitimacy, and we all know he would, we can surmise that Lu Ten's mother was Iroh's wife. We also know that she has vanished before Zuko was around ten, and probably in fact disappeared before he was born, or at least while he was a very young child.

My sort of pet theory is that both Ozai and Lu Ten's births resulted in their mother's deaths, and I have in fact had some fun exploring how this particular parallel, and how Ozai, being the unfavorite because his father holds him responsible for killing a much-loved wife, might have feelings about Lu Ten, growing up the apple of his father's eye. But anyway, that can't really happen in this AU, or it could but it would involve a lot of extra complication of Iroh remarrying, and who would his new wife be. So instead, that place is taken by Mai. Mai's birth results in her mother's death. And much like Ozai, she is the younger child, with a significant gap whose birth killed her mother.

2. Mai is born the younger child of Iroh, crown prince of the Fire Nation. The pregnancy had been a surprise, after many years of they're only ever having been Lu Ten. Iroh and his wife went from shock to joy to anticipation, to relieve and joy at Mai's birth, and then a few days after the birth, fear, as the wife of the Crown Prince grew sick with childbed fever, and then, when her death left him alone, Iroh mourned. But Iroh is not alone in his grief. His father went through the same thing many years ago, and of course his eleven year old son grieves for his mother. But Iroh feels almost guilty for how little he mourns. His wife was a good wife and a good woman, but their match was arranged and they were always more friends and partners than lovers, and he misses her, but the grief never threatens to overwhelm him as it did his father all those years ago. And he loves his daughter very much.

3. Little Princess Mai grows up with a father and brother who love her very much, a grandfather who ignores her, an uncle whose lip curls whenever he sees her, and an aunt who warmly welcomes her to play with her own children, the other little prince and princess. It's a warm little jewel of a childhood, safe and happy. But then one day her father goes off to war and takes her brother with him. She is seven years old, and though she doesn't quite realize it yet, nothing will ever be the same again. She has seen her older brother for the last time, and when her father comes back he will be a different man.

4. Iroh held off going to war again after his daughter was born, but she's old enough now to go to school, to the Royal Fire Nation Academy for Girls, and her cousin is going with her, and the time has come he thinks, to go to war. So he leaves his daughter in the care of his father and his brother and his brother's wife, and her teachers and her friends, and goes off to conquer Ba Sing Se. And at first, Mai thinks that this might be okay. The first thing that happens when she goes to school, is that she meets another girl and makes friends with her. This is the first friend she's ever made.

5. But without Iroh there, with Azulon paying no attention to his Royal grandchildren at court, with only Ozai and Ursa watching over them, Azula starts to come into her own, and Mai soon finds her new friend stolen away from her.

#avatar the last airbender #atla mai #uncle iroh #Lu ten #azula #posts i created #do you want to ask a question it doesn't have to be a question #five headcanons #i ship iroh/tea #azula needs her own warning #brave soldier boy doesn't come marching home #mai doesn't hate you

43 notes · View notes

proudfreakmetarusonikku · 9 months ago

Text

ok meds are making me eepy so before I go sleep the idea for the au that incidentally also came from a dream last night (this happens to me a lot idk why) was basically that benders bear physical marks from the animals and spirits they learnt bending from (so like the moon and ocean for waterbenders badgermoles for earthbenders). idk why but it was a dream and looked cool.

but anyway the thing was that like obviously kataras backstory went different bc she could visibly be identified as a waterbender from birth. so like instead of kya protecting her by saying she was the last waterbender she was captured at a very young age (kya was still killed trying to protect her but even a bunch of fire nation soldiers weren’t going to kill like a fucking five year old like i don’t even think they were necessarily the southern raiders) but she managed to escape after years of being in the same awful conditions of like hama. she didn’t figure out bloodbending tho they did prepare for that (by making sure there were no vermin for her to study on) she figured out the sweat thing and also that humans are mostly water in a. much more bloody and traumatic way. she was eleven it was very scarring to have to do that.

so she like snuck on a ship after escaping in like the desperate hope that they’d go near home and she could escape but she ends up being discovered pretty easily bc she’s eleven and shit at being a stowaway. but like again she was eleven and we all know what would have happened at that point in the timeline so she has the luck of being on like zuko's exile failure ship and she’s found by uncle iroh so she’s like. fine. so that’s how her and zuko ended up being like friends (reluctantly on his end bc he's still kind of an elitist prick but he is also thirteen and like any contact with someone relatively his age is kind of hard to angst ur way out of). she’s there for a few months-ish before like they’re close enough to her tribe that she can peace out and go home but like she still remembers them as like “that one weirdly nice fire nation guy and his nephew who was cool and we stayed up late talking about trauma once that was cathartic”. which of course means the dynamic when she’s like 14 and the events of the series happen are way funnier bc this is like the kid she was hanging out with for a few months and how do you handle that when he wants to kidnap ur other friend like.

#idk. it was a weird dream. but fun #Atla au

9 notes · View notes

the-badger-mole · 2 years ago

Text

AU Bot Plots:

I've already done this prompt, but I have more I want to share now. This was an opening I was considering for this office romance AU I've been poking at for a few years now. I don't know if it will make it into the final cut (or if there will even be a final cut), but I thought it was cute. Enjoy!

Zuko had- for lack of a better word- inherited his new assistant when his uncle semi-retired. Zuko vaguely remembered Katara from her days as an intern at Dragon Tea Company, back when he had been assisting Iroh while he worked on his business masters. He noticed her across the office a few times because she was cute, but despite his uncle’s encouragement that he ask her out, Zuko never said more than a few words to her. She didn’t seem all that interested in speaking to him either, though, so Zuko didn’t feel that bad about it. Then Zuko had finished school, and tried to work at Sozin with his father. It had not gone well, and both men decided that it would be better if they didn’t work at the same company. That was the story the public was told, anyway.

Iroh offered his nephew a job at his company instead, which later became him instating his nephew as the corporate head of the multinational, billion dollar cafe chain. Katara at this point had been Iroh’s assistant for a bit over a year, hired by the aging CEO right out of undergrad. In a bit of parting advice, Iroh recommended that Zuko keep Katara on as his assistant.

“I would have offered her your job,” Iroh confessed, “but she’s still working on her masters.” Zuko agreed, not really caring one way or another. He figured he could always fire her later if it turned out his uncle was exaggerating.

He was not exaggerating.

Katara worked with an efficiency that was almost frightening. There were times when he thought that she could read his mind. Her name would barely be on his lips before she appeared with a file or phone number or lunch he had only just thought to ask for. A few times he asked her how she could have possibly known what he was going to say. She would just smirk and reply cryptically.

“I’m the Avatar,” she told him once.

On another occasion she said, “Oh, I have this entire building wire tapped.”

“Yes, Zuko,” she said once with an unnerving gleam in her ocean blue eyes, “I can read your mind.”

#atla #zutara #au bot plots #secretary/boss au #THE YEAR OF CONTENT!!!!

46 notes · View notes

masterghandalf · 6 months ago

Text

MG Reads Embers: Chapter One

Note: This is a continuation of my reread and commentary of Embers by Vathara, originally posted last fall and winter on my Dreamwidth account.

Chapter One NOTE: This is the first chapter of Embers proper, and per FF.net was first published a few months after “Theft Absolute.”

This chapter opens with an author note: Anything Avatar, not mine. (Like anyone had any doubts.) Timeline, starts within a day or two after "Theft Absolute", but before they meet up with the idiot whose dao the Blue Spirit steals. Fair warning, in this AU Iroh is less of the Martyr for Love and much more Retired Badass. No good general, no matter how peacefully retired, is going to let an officer in training get away without having some sense knocked into him. Plus, dragons get a lot more involved in the story, and the whole "fire is life" bit gets a lot more play. The chapter itself begins as Zuko snaps awake, initially fearing an ambush before realizing that he was just startled by Iroh’s snoring. We learn that Zuko is still aching from some of the wounds he sustained during Zhao’s assassination attempt on him, and that he feels Iroh must be doing even worse (though he’s reminded of what happened the last time on their journey when Iroh tried to take a relaxing soak). Zuko thinks about how he’s never been able to sleep well since his mother disappeared, and a moment later Iroh also wakes up, complaining of his old bones but saying he’ll be able to manage until the next town. Zuko has him turn over, forcing heat – but not fire – into his hands, and starts massaging his uncle’s back muscles.

Iroh compliments Zuko on his “interesting adaptation” of firebending, and Zuko claims it wasn’t an adaptation, while flashing back to Ursa’s disappearance. He says it’s based on something his mother used to do whenever he hurt himself in training, trying to keep up with Azula. Finishing up, he asks Iroh if they can get going now; Iroh is a bit bemused by the idea of eating on the road but assures Zuko he’ll be fine; Zuko is just glad he didn’t want to talk about Ursa more. We’re suddenly in Iroh’s perspective, as he wishes he’d had more time to talk with Ursa before Azulon died and she vanished. He then has a flashback to when he was awakened by a servant on the night of Zuko’s birth; it seems that Zuko was born at midnight, an ill-omened time for the Fire Nation, and was sickly and considered unlikely to live, so Ozai had already left the room when Iroh arrived. Ursa had thrown all of the servants and physicians out and called for firewood. When Iroh arrived, he saw Ursa sitting by the fire, and holding flames of all colors in her hands – and as the flames flickered, the healthier Zuko seemed to become. Iroh realized that he was witnessing firebending healing, and when it seemed the crisis was passed, he told Ursa she needed to rest. She was shocked to realize he’d seen, but Iroh considered it to be a mother caring for her son, no more. Ursa introduced Iroh to his infant nephew, Zuko… and as Iroh looked into the baby’s eyes, he was stunned to see they weren’t blue, but were already solid gold! Ursa explained that she was also born like this, and Ozai, who hates things he doesn’t understand and can’t control, mustn’t know. Iroh assured her that he would only tell Ozai he saw Ursa caring for her son, and asks if he could learn the technique, which he was able to do to only a limited degree, enough to perform basic battlefield first aid on himself. He never learned where Ursa learned it, but he knew enough to understand that the multicolored flames were dragon fire.

Back in the present, Iroh thinks about how he’d thought Zuko had never learned the technique, but he’s starting to realize that he was wrong, and is stunned by the implications of a healer as the Fire Lord’s heir. Iroh thinks back to Azula’s attempt to capture them in “The Avatar State” and how she’d never dare do such a thing without Ozai’s approval, and how Zuko’s death would guarantee her own position as heir. All of which means that, as things stand now, they can’t ever go home, though Zuko hasn’t realized it yet. He then asks Zuko about how they should go about getting a warm bed; Zuko says that they’re royalty and should be able to get what they want, but Iroh reminds him that the Earth Kingdom has no reason to respect that. However, they might be able to trade if they had something valuable, like polished stones. Zuko is nonplussed by the idea, but he’s been educated about things like the products of the Fire Nation’s mines, and Iroh has already spotted some likely-looking stones on what must be a dry streambed. Zuko complains that this will never work, but he nonetheless helps Iroh start hunting for rocks, as iroh reflects that he’s at least willing to try and the scene ends.

MG’s Thoughts We really have two main plotlines in this chapter – Zuko and Iroh’s traveling in the present, and Iroh’s flashback to Ursa and Zuko’s birth. The present-day story is pretty innocuous here, once again, mostly focusing on Zuko and Iroh’s dynamic as the two of them travel together. In that respect it’s pretty low-key, like “Theft Absolute” and a lot of Embers’ first arc, and like them it’s really remarkable in hindsight to see the huge fic that this became originating from something so straightforward. The biggest event in the present is Zuko’s tapping into fire-healing in a minor way, which ties into Iroh’s flashback in a much bigger way. Now, fire-healing is one of the fic’s biggest concepts, especially early on, and while I’ve sometimes seen the idea criticized… I’m fine with it. Fire and water are the two elements that seem the most likely to have healing powers (water because the body is mostly made up of it, and fire because of its associations with energy and life) and in a way it eventually made it into canon (in the frame story of “Beginnings” in Korra). I’ve used fire-healing myself in some of my own fics (and made Ursa a firebender, for that matter – both my own fics and Embers predating “The Search” by years, so canon!Ursa was still a blank slate at the time). However, together with the revelation of Zuko being born with his gold eyes (and Iroh automatically assuming gold eyes are the mark of a firebender rather than just a common eye color in the Fire Nation) we also get the first hint at Vathara’s determination to make Zuko *special*. Fire-healing alone would have been enough to build a fic around, but IMO Vathara makes it only one of about four ways Zuko is marked as *special* and it gets a bit excessive (and, again IMO, ends up diluting a lot of what makes canon!Zuko a compelling character… but more on that later). On its own merits, though, this chapter is pretty straightforward, has some good Zuko-Iroh interactions and lays some interesting foreshadowing down.

I do have some quibbles with Vathara’s AN, before we go. First off, I never got the impression that Iroh considered Zuko to be a young officer under his command or treated him that way (indeed, from the way Iroh almost always addresses Zuko as “Prince Zuko,” I’m pretty sure it’s Zuko who outranks Iroh in the Fire Nation’s hierarchy, presumably because even banished he’s still the sitting Fire Lord’s son, while Iroh’s position in the line of succession was revoked when Azulon died). Their relationship is always framed as familiar, or in some contexts as a master martial artist instructing his student. But I do think this is the start of a trend in the fic, where Vathara really likes soldiers and the military and seems to have a thing for Hard Men (and sometimes Hard Women) making Hard But Necessary Choices. But again, more on that later. And, considering what’s coming later in the fic, the offhand reference to dragons being “more involved” is just sort of… lol, that’s one way to put it. But again, like with “Theft Absolute” most of these issues are things that are really only noticeable in hindsight, in light of where the fic is ultimately going.

#avatar: the last airbender #embers #embers critical #mg reads #mg reads embers #critical

1 note · View note

shortstrawberry · 2 years ago

Text

An azutara arranged marriage au because no one else is doing it

Where Azula and Katara bickered a lot, decided the other is not so bad, found a long-lost mother, found dragons, rebuild two nations and finally fell in love

The building blocks - Azula

Azula is still very much a self-centered, cunning and magnificent bastard. But this time her pragmatism and survival instinct very much overrides her need for fatherly approval.

Azula is someone who demands excellence. She is herself perfection incarnate. She is hailed as a prodigy for a reason, in both her tactical acumen and her bending skills.

In comparison, Ozai is all brute force and no finesse. And Azula notices this. She sees how she is really better than her father in every way possible at the mere age of fourteen. And if that wasn't enough, her father being a power hungry self-destructive maniac makes Azula sure her father will burn down the whole country. The Avatar appearing again doesn't help either.

So when she sees her daddy dearest burn off half the face of Zuko, she knows she is living on borrowed time. If she ever disappoints her crazy father, she'll be next on the burning block.

And so she plans. She smuggles Zuko out safely. Not because she is particularly fond of her brother, no. She does it because she needs to get him to the Avatar. There is only one way to save the country she loves so much, and she needs that bald air-kid for it.

She sends the Avatar team occasional pointers with the help of her pet hawk. The hawk's name is Vishu btw. She is a beautiful thing. Katara especially loves her and regularly gives her treats. This will be important down the line. It’s too bad that besides Zuko, no one really knows just how nauseatingly nice Azula is being.

Azula meanwhile also tries her best at boot licking her father. She does need to keep her face safe until the Avatar arrives. Daresay, Azula makes one fantastic villain. She hopes Zuko will clear her name later, so she can become the Fire Lord and save her nation from imploding on itself.

All in all, it ends well for Azula. Ozai is behind bars and without firebending. Zuko lets her take the throne, despite the many protests from Avatar and that water-peasant. Uncle Iroh surprisingly stays quiet. She guessed that even he knows his dear nephew is not exactly Fire Lord material.

Now she just needs to make sure that bald kid does not take away her bending. Which means she needs to be on her best behavior. Sigh.

The building blocks - Katara

If someone told Katara that the crazy fire-breathing banshee would one day be a competent Fire Lord, she would have laughed in their face so hard the sky would start raining. But the new Fire Lord whom everybody doubted did become the reason her tribe finally saw peace after a century of war.

It was not peaceful all the time, though. There was still plenty of bad blood between the two nations. Not a month goes by when some stray rogue Firebender does not try to burn their igloos. It was tempting to believe that Azula was behind it all, but the Fire Lord sending compensation and apology for every single attack told her otherwise.

Meanwhile, things in her personal life were not all’s well either. Aang and her finally broke up after her seventeenth birthday. Something she did see coming. Aang wanted marriage and babymaking to rebuild the air nomads. And Katara was just not ready for it.

The upheaval in her life all came to a head when an Emperor Class Fire Nation frigate rammed into the South Pole. Her igloo almost got destroyed and in retaliation she promptly sunk the ship. Thankfully, no one was seriously hurt in her tribe. But she knew then that her life would never be the same.

It thankfully didn't come to a war as she expected. Azula personally came down to the South Pole to make amends. Katara noticed that she finally got rid of those God awful clawlike nails. She also had to grudgingly admit that an adult Azula is rather easy on the eyes.

Katara wished she had clawlike nails to claw off Azula’s face when she proposed a marriage with her to seal the peace agreement. She understands that this is the best way to shut the complaining xenophobics, but surely there is another way?!

“Is this even necessary? Can’t you just do your thing and burn those Ozai loyalists?”

“I am trying to not be my father. Did you not notice that in the last four years?”

It was this that finally made Katara say yes. They were married in three days and immediately set sail for the Fire Nation soon after. What joy.

Part II will cover the rest.

Want to make your headcannon real? Send them my way and I will write them for you!

#azula x katara #azutara #azula #azula deserved better #azula atla #avatar au #azula fanfic #katara #headcanon #atla headcanons #requests open #anon #firelord azula #arranged marriage #these bitches gay #wlw #enemies to friends to lovers #enemies to lovers #slow build

282 notes · View notes

sockendrache · 3 years ago

Text

AU in which Zuko is painfully aware that his dad is an asshole and decides to vibe on his ship rather than chasing Aang-

rewatching ALTA rn (cough quarantine really do be like that) and- I cant help but laugh when watching Zuko act like a spoiled brat with heavy daddy-issues throughout the first season, knowing how awkward he’ll become later on (”Zuko here” is all I’m gonna say rip-)

now, instead of waiting for uncle Iroh to spill the tea (no pun intended) about his scar and chasing the avatar without telling his crew a word about wHY he’s so hellbent on steering his ship all over the fucking world to chase a ghost... Zuko’s just aware of why exactly he was put on this ship and decides “well, might as well enjoy the ride”

One of the first things he does after boarding the ship (after waiting for his injury to heal rip) is ask Iroh or Lieutenant Jee to cut his hair for him, since,,,, well he’s a banished prince that was sent out to chase a ghost,,, no real reason to cling onto the illusion of royality any longer, is there? so off with the hair-knot

*cue tiny, 13 year old Zuko with a bandaged eye and freshly shorn head walking up to the ship-railing and chucking his hair overboard. he waves the severed hair-knot goodbye, Uncle Iroh just brews himself another cup of calming tea-*

He knows his dad’s not expecting him to come back, or... even wants him back, for that matter.

“Sir, where is our next course leading?”

“Idk, you decide.”

Either spends his time holed up in his private quarters or fucks around on the ports whenever the ship needs to stop for supplies. Instead of spending his ‘pocket money’ on anything that could help him find the avatar he just buys whatever crap would unnerve the crew the most. (last time they let him run off on his own he came back with 67 tiny, wooden sky-bison figurines and has hidden them all over the ship. It’s been 3 years and the crew is still finding bisons hidden in their belongings.)

If it weren’t for the nasty scar you’d just assume he’s the bastard-child of one of his crew-members they’re letting tag along, not, y’know, the crown-prince of the fire-nation.

He still trains a lot- just not to capture the avatar. Just because there’s literally nothing else to do on the ship-

Because he doesn’t have such a nasty temper, the crew doesn’t wanna throw him overboard all the fucking time. Instead they just all collectively decided that they’re adopting the brat- no one’s sure how Iroh feels about suddenly having to share his nephew with 20-something sailors, but no one caught him complaining so far.

Zuko can and will take advantage of that. Watch him yell “Uncle!” on the main bridge and grin like a demon as he sees 5 old sailors’ head snap around and give him a concerned look.

His dad may be an asshole but at the very least he got 20 new uncles-

People tend to recognoze him, because... uh. Well. When he was freshly banished he easily took offense when he was recognized as the banished prince of the firenation, even in the middle of bumfuck-nowhere.... as he grew older Zuko just came up with creative ways to change the topic.

“Nah, his scar’s on the other side.”

“Oh, no, I was just seeing a firenation-girl for a while and learned the hard way why you shouldn’t get them too excited in bed.”

“A scar? What scar- OH MY GOD UNCLE WHY CAN’T I SEE???”

When he eventually stumbles into team avatar, he *could* technically capture the avatar and bring him to the firelord to restore his honor and reclaim his throne... but he’d rather fuck with his old man for a bit.

Cue him inviting them onboard to play Pai sho with uncle. Zuko and Sokka going around, terrorizing the locals with Sokka’s terrible humor and Zuko’s scar. Toph and Zuko befriending each other, using the excuse “We only have one eye between the two of us.” whenever they end up in deadly situations together-

He sleeps in the rhino-pen. No real reason behind it, it just terrifies Lieutenant Jee and if anything brings Zuko joy, it’s terrorizing his crew by endangering himself in the most creative ways

#avatar the last airbender #alta #zuko #prince zuko #zuko's crew #lieutenant jee #uncle iroh #im sorry the ponytail is just too fucking hideous-

478 notes · View notes

zuko-always-lies · 2 years ago

Text

@nexstage submitted:

Sequel of "Azula disappears and everyone suffers the consequences AU" AKA an idea I had that is way better than the comics, but anything is way better than the comics so it's not saying that much.

Book 2 Earth:

As Zuko and Iroh rest after the fiasco on the North Pole, The Gaang arrives at the headquarters of general Fong. While the conflict between the Gaang and Fong happens like in canon, Zuko and Iroh are sent into a trap made by Combustion Man who proves to be too powerful for Zuko. Iroh lightbends and knocks their assassin unconscious.

Zuko asks who the heck is that guy and how could he blast stuff with her mind, he also asks Iroh about the lightning he summoned. His uncle explains that there are a few rare firebending techniques: mental combustion and lightning which only a small bunch of people could accomplish. While the first one is extremely rare and there is no time to study it or resources, the second technique is Iroh's specialty and Zuko is more than willing to learn how to lightbend to defeat Combustion Man next time they see him. Despite his nephew's enthusiasm, Iroh suspects their assassin was no random case but someone Ozai sent to eliminate them; however, telling that to Zuko might not be the best idea for he is still in denial about his father replacing him with a new heir. Iroh decides to keep this information secret until he sees it adequate to reveal it to Zuko and keep him distracted with lightningbending and the search for the Avatar.

Iroh convinces Zuko that if they want to get answers for the Avatar again and not be ambushed by the assassin they will have to cut off their topknots.

Zuko disagrees with the idea saying that would mean being fugitives from their own home, which Iroh explains is the most pragmatic solution to find the Avatar on the Earth Kingdom without being pointed as Fire Nation and it will be just for a while. Zuko agrees reluctantly.

During their travels, they meet Song and her family and they let them into their house after Iroh accidentally poisons himself with toxic herbs he used to make tea. Zuko sees another point of view of the war when Song shows him her scars made by cruel firebenders. Unlike canon, when Zuko wants to keep looking for Aang, Iroh convinces him to stay until the next day and thank Song and her family for their hospitality.

The Gaang, on the other hand, is shocked to see that the Fire Nation has conquered Omashu and plans a way to liberate it and Bumi.

Like in canon, Tom Tom gets too attached to Momo and he accidentally takes the baby away from his family making Ukano believe his son has been kidnapped by the resistance of Omashu. Aang has the idea to return Tom Tom to his parents and free Bumi at the same time, like a deal. His friends aren't that sure about Ukano being honest with the deal and things will be more difficult if Aang is in the middle of this because he's the Avatar.

Ukano has the same idea about exchanging Bumi to have his son back, safe and sound but Mai says that if Bumi, an experienced and powerful earthbender is freed, he will find the Avatar and teach him earthbending which will make stuff harder for the Fire Nation. Mai and her parents argue because it seems to them that Mai doesn't care about her younger brother, and Mai knows that if a powerful enemy escapes from their clutches and joins the Avatar, the Fire Lord won't like it and will punish them in the end.

Bumi talks to Ukano and says that if he wants his son back that's ok but he won't leave or let Aang and the resistance free him. Ukano thinks Bumi is messing with him and plotting behind his back but the mad king assures him of his honesty.

Bumi's words are sent to Aang in the form of a letter by Ukano and everyone thinks this is a trap. The leader of the resistance repeats himself saying that Bumi surrendered like nothing. Aang, distraught with his friend's choice, decides to give Ukano his son back and talk with Bumi for the night, without being caught.

The night comes, and Bumi explains to Aang he can't leave for he needs to wait for the right time to fight for his city. Listen and wait for the right time to strike, the neutral jing, that's the fighting style of the earthbenders and the best strategy, that's why leaving right now is not a good idea.

Aang reluctantly accepts this and trusts that Bumi will have Omashu back. He returns to the group and explains to them what Bumi has told him and they kind of see the sense of it though they don't agree wholeheartedly.

Zuko's training for lighting bending starts and like canon, he has the same difficulties as his attempts end up blowing up in his face. Iroh explains that he's confused and needs to come to terms with the changes in his life and be more humble because too much pride can lead him to his doom. Zuko says he's been living a forcedly humble life as a fugitive so that's something, and there is also the change in his plans with the Avatar. Iroh adds his father's new family and that makes Zuko angry as he yells that he is the true heir of the throne, not whoever child Ozai had while he was gone.

Iroh ventures carefully with the topic by saying that even if he was born as the heir, his father is the Fire Lord so he can decide who's going to succeed him once he's gone. And if he had written a will as a law stating that his new child will be the future Fire Lord, then there's nothing they can do.

"There is still the Avatar!!" Zuko screams. Iroh sighs and tells him they have a mission with Aang and that is knowing more about the war, what truly happened before the Fire Nation started it. Iroh also says Zuko had seen the bodies of children, women, and elders inside the Southern Air Temple which means the Fire Nation army did unspeakable and dishonorable stuff to innocents and that's something they can't overlook. Zuko storms off.

"He doesn't get it. No one does! He had grandfather Azulon's favor for a long time! How could he understand that I need this?! My father would never do such a thing!! I'm not something to replace!" Zuko doesn't want to admit that all his hours training and studying are for nothing with this new heir of Ozai because that will mean that even without Azula, her prodigious sister, even with his best he's still nothing to his father and he wont have a purpose if the Avatar defeats the Fire Nation.

The Gaang finally arrives to Gaoling and meets Toph, stuff happens like canon except that this time Toph little discussion with her parents gets more intense. She disagrees with the idea of being locked up in her home just because she's blind because her father has seen already how strong she is, and her parents aren't happy that Toph wants to go to a war that they don't have anything to do with and blame Aang for making Toph think she can fight whenever and wherever she wants to. Katara explains that Aang meeting Toph wasn't a random choice but a vision, that she was chosen to be his earthbending teacher, and even if they hide somewhere else, the Fire Nation will conquer everything on the Earth Kingdom including Gaoling, which means that the more help Aang has, the sooner they can save the world.

Toph's parents aren't still conviced until Sokka promises to protect their daughter as the oldest member of the group and send them letters about how things are going. He understands their fear for Toph because Kanna, his and Katara's grandmother told them to go help Aang stop the war with faith in them but also a lot of worry because they're still children and stuff is dangerous outside but if they don't act, the world will never be safe again.

Finally, although relunctantly, Toph's parents agree but their ultimátum is that if something happens to her, the Avatar and the group will pay.

Toph becomes part of the Gaang much to everyone’s joy.

The Zuko Alone episode turns into duo travel as Zuko and Iroh haven't separated; however, Zuko is still angry because he's not making any progress in his light-bending training and Iroh's insistence on not pleasing Ozai anymore and put more effort into knowing about the war and the role of the Avatar before it just make it worse for him.

They end up in Lee's village and befriend him and his family. Both learn that a group of earthbending soldiers are bullying the villagers when they were supposed to protect them. During their stay at Lee's home, the boy talks about his older brother, how he's fighting for their country, and how much he misses him. Zuko talks about Azula and that he misses her too because she vanished without reason. While bonding over absent siblings, Zuko accidentally reveals a bit about his family by saying that Azula had everything at home because they were rich but she still left. Fortunately, that's the only bit of info and Lee doesn't figure out who he is. That is until Iroh and Zuko are informed that Lee has been held hostage by the bullies soldiers after they discovered that it was Lee who threw eggs at them.

Iroh and Zuko had to fight with weapons to hide their identities from the village; however, the leader of the soldiers separates them with an earth-rock wall and knocks Zuko out. He throws more rocks to kill him but Iroh gets in the way and breathes fire much to everyone's shock and horror.

The bullies-soldiers run away from Iroh's power but no one celebrates because Lee, his family, and the village call Iroh ash maker, a demon, and reject him for it. To defend him, Zuko reveals himself as a firebender too and the village kicks them out.

Resuming their journey, Iroh thanks his nephew for standing up to him even when he had made a friend in the little village. Zuko replies that it felt nice to have a friend in Lee and teach him how to use the swords but he wasn't going to let his uncle deal with all the hatred even when they have saved the villagers. Iroh says that what the Fire Nation and the Fire Royal Family have done for years to the other nations has left a deep, terrible mark that will take a lot of time to heal so the hatred and anger are understandable, that’s why it’s important to find the Avatar because he has the answers of how the war started.

Zuko is a bit reluctant because he also wants to recover his throne from his half-sister but he accepts to look for Aang to find out what happened for the Fire Nation to want to go to war. Iroh hesitates about telling Zuko that the assassin is his father’s doing and that he wants to get rid of both of them. He starts by asking Zuko why might be the reason for that assassin to go after them.

The prince remembers what happened at the North Pole and gives that as the answer. Iroh grimaces, technically Zuko isn't wrong but while he tries to capture the Avatar, the former general fought Zhao and his fleet with the Gaang and saved the Moon Spirit. However, if Ozai had as a goal killing a traitor, Iroh would've been the only target, not him and Zuko. Iroh knows that telling his nephew about Ozai’s intentions of eliminating them is important, but doing that will cement more on the prince that his father couldn't care less about him and prefer him dead. Iroh decides to wait for the right moment to give him the news hoping that Zuko takes it as calmly as he can.

During The Chase, Combustion Man finds the Avatar and his friends, and knowing Zuko and Iroh must be looking for them, he waits for them to cross paths with the Gaang and also keeps an eye on them. It will be two birds dead with a single shot. Due to his decision to wait and spy on the Gaang, our heroes don't feel like they have to run away every five minutes which in canon, with Azula and her friends chasing them, tired them out. However, Toph still senses Combustion Man following them but he hides very far away after pretending to leave to make sure they don't escape from him. The fight between Toph and the Gaang doesn't happen because the team is better rested than in canon; however, with Combustion Man still behind them, they decide to create a scheme to fool and defeat him. After some deliberation, the Gaang splits to deceive the enemy. Toph stays on the ground while the rest of the team flies on Appa but they don't go that far. Everyone is concerned about Toph discovering who Combustion Man is as he hasn't revealed himself yet; meanwhile, Toph surprisingly meets Zuko and Iroh and shares some tea with them as an invitation from Iroh.

The Gaang hasn't told her yet about those two (just like in canon) and during a short conversation, Toph describes her friends to them. Zuko can't believe that he has met a new ally of the Avatar but his heart rats him out and when Toph confronts him about his sudden surprise and impatience after talking about her friends, Zuko lies saying that it is a shock a blind girl is part of the Avatar’s group. Toph attacks Zuko and Iroh after sensing his lie and runs away to warn the Gaang.

Zuko and Iroh follow her immediately. On the other hand, Combustion Man had been following Aang, Katara, and Sokka who had flown away on Appa. He finds them in the abandoned, little village but discovers that Toph is missing and Zuko and Iroh haven't found the Gaang yet. That is until everyone meets each other.

With the chaos starting between the Gaang and their old enemies, Combustion Man sends a blast that separates everyone. During his attack, Toph’s feet are injured preventing her from “seeing” where are her friends and their enemies. Sokka carries her and takes her back to Appa while yelling for Katara and Aang to follow him.

Seconds before doing so, a new blast creates a crater, stopping Katara and Aang from running away. Zuko and Iroh shoot fireballs at Combustion Man but he dissipates them and his third eye shoots another blast.

Aang wants to escape but watching how dangerous that guy is and his intent on killing them all, he uses his glider to create a mini tornado and throws Combustion Man toward a few old houses to give Zuko and Iroh a chance to run. Despite the fall, he gets out from the rubble with ease and sends another blast that goes through Aang’s air slash; it explodes a meter from him burning his clothes and a few of his limbs. Katara immobilizes Combustion Man with a water rope turned into an ice rope before aiding Aang. While doing that, Sokka comes to rescue them on Appa, Toph sat on the saddle.

Combustion Man frees himself from the ice rope and scares Appa away with a blast, then a big fireball collides with his back much to his fury. Zuko says this is the rematch time but Iroh tells him to join the Gaang while he distracts the enemy. Zuko refuses to leave him behind so both have to deal with Combustion Man while the Gaang escapes.

Again, the assassin proves to be more efficient and experienced than the banished prince but Zuko holds back his impatience and frustration and in an attempt to end the battle quickly he imitates Iroh’s movements to lightbend; however, only tiny sparks appear. Iron lightbends to kill Combustion Man but he uses his blast to propel himself to the air and evade the attack. During the few seconds in the air, the assassin watches as the Gaang is finally on Appa’s saddle, ready to leave. His next blast is fired a few seconds before Aang airbends to defend the team and Appa and the Gaang are knocked out, having a turbulent landing.

The Avatar State is triggered the moment Aang sees his injured friends and beloved pets. In his rage, he earthbends creating an earthquake the same way he did when General Fong triggered the Avatar State, and Combustion Man, Zuko, and Iroh end up unconscious and badly injured.

When Aang comes back to his senses, he's horrified by the destruction he had caused and helps his friends and even Zuko and Iroh that are beneath the rubble, and all escape on Appa. Half an hour later, Combustion Man wakes up just to discover that his targets are gone.

A few hours pass and Zuko wakes up, he's covered in bandages just like his uncle who is still unconscious. The Gaang is slowly recovering from the terrible battle with Combustion Man while keeping an eye on their old enemies.

Zuko asks what happened, taking Aang by surprise with his awakening. Sokka mockingly responds that Aang kicked their butts and saved them from Combustion Man, Zuko remembers then the earthquake that almost killed them much to Aang’s shame and horror.

He apologizes profusely because his anger wasn't targeted at him and Iroh but Combustion Man, though the Avatar State didn't let him think things through. Sokka tells Aang to not say sorry to jerkbender much to Zuko’s anger but the prince can't retaliate due to his injuries. He then asks Katara who is checking over on Iroh if he will wake up and she replies that he will but it is still too soon, he needs more rest.

Zuko decides to rest for a while, more worried for his uncle than the mission at hand. He asks Aang if he could kill Combustion Man which makes the Avatar flinch and look away.

Toph tells Zuko to shut up and not bother him but the prince demands an answer because the assassin is too dangerous to let him at the hands of luck.

Katara yells at him that perhaps this was his idea: sending an assassin to kill Aang, pretending to not know anything about it, and waiting to be the victim to hide the evidence.

Zuko responds that the man wasn't chasing the Avatar but he and Iroh. Sokka says that it is suspicious that both were chased by Combustion Man only for the assassin to put Aang and the team on his list of targets.

Zuko says at the end that he doesn't care if they don't believe him but he's no liar.

The night finally comes and the Gaang take turns to keep an eye on Zuko while regaining their energies.

The next morning, Iroh wakes up much to his nephew’s relief and joy and he narrates the past events for Iroh to catch up. The former general is happy that they are with the Avatar now and very far away from the assassin; however; they will have to intensify the lightning-bending training in case they meet Combustion Man again.

Then Toph wakes up prompting the rest of the group to do it. Breakfast is awkward and tense because no one trusts Zuko and Iroh, Aang still feels guilty for the destruction caused by his Avatar rage, and Zuko is still mad that they called him a liar.

Iroh tries to lessen the tension by thanking the Gaang for taking care of them despite their rocky past encounters.

Sokka says that Aang was the one who did all the job because he's too kind for his own good. Zuko retorts that doing that was the least Aang could do after almost killing them.

Iroh whispers to his nephew to keep things civil. Katara says that it is hypocritical for Zuko to expect kindness from a victim after what he and the Fire Nation have done like the Air Nomad genocide, the raids against the SWT, burning Suki’s village, chasing and trying to kill them and to top it all, they brought a dangerous man to their doorsteps.

Zuko screams that Combustion Man's first targets were he and Iroh, not the Avatar. Katara responds that it doesn't matter, what's done it's done.

Iroh tries to calm him down saying that right now, what they should do is rest and then train on lightningbending not fight with the Avatar’s friends.

Aang asks out of curiosity what's lightningbending but Zuko says that's not his business. Aang complains saying that he had already apologized for almost killing them in a fit of anger and Zuko responds it doesn't matter, lightningbending is too complex for him anyway.

Katara tells Aang not to feel bad about it, and that once Zuko and Iroh are better, they will go their separate ways.

Iroh corrects her saying that now that they're together without killing each other, it's time for them to explain to the Gaang what they want.

Sokka interrupts, replying that both want to imprison Aang and win the war so guessing games are unnecessary. Zuko objects, he explains his plans have changed. What he wants to know is Avatar’s role before the war and how the Fire Nation started it.

Toph asks “shouldn't you know that already?”

Zuko explains that the Fire Nation's lessons about the war weren't accurate at all and he puts as an example what he found at the Southern Air Temple. The Gaang is shocked that he went there after them but keeps listening. Zuko says the Fire Royal Academy for boys and girls teaches children that the air nomads fought the Fire Nation with their armies; suddenly, he is interrupted by Aang who angrily corrects him: the Air Nomads weren't soldiers, they were non-combatant monks, pacifists. Also, the Air Temples weren't fortresses but spiritual places to raise future generations of air nomads until the Fire Nation ambush them all.

Zuko replies that that is why he was saying there was no accuracy with his lessons. He and Iroh discovered skeletons of children, women, and elders not soldiers, meaning that the Fire Nation armies attacked and killed innocents and then put something different from what happened in the history books. By asking the Avatar for information about how the war started, he can rectify the serious mistakes made by the Fire Nation both in the military and in the educational system.

The Gaang is skeptical about that, though Aang tries to be optimistic and Toph, thanks to her seismic sense, knows Zuko is being honest.

Sokka tells the Gaang to have a private meeting and the team leaves Zuko and Iroh waiting for their answer.

Sokka asks the others what they think about Zuko’s intentions. Katara goes first, saying that she doesn't trust them and it sounds too good to be true.

Toph says he was being honest and when her friends ask how she knows she explains her ability to sense who is lying and who's not.

Aang then says that even if he doesn't trust either of them, he as the Avatar needs a firebending teacher, and Iroh and Zuko could teach him after he learns earthbending.

Toph agrees with that. However, Sokka says that they could ask another firebender who hasn't chased them or tried to kill them when Toph replies with “Who exactly?” he responds “Jeong Jeong”. Katara objects saying that after their encounter with Zhao in front of Jeong Jeong’s house, he won't be in the same place anymore.

Sokka thinks looking for him instead of relying on Zuko and Iroh’s help is better and safer, Toph counterargues saying that they have a chance to help Aang with his Avatar training now that there are two possible firebending teachers and besides it is the most pragmatical option. Searching for Jeong Jeong will take too much time.

Katara asks Aang what he decides and whatever it is, they'll trust him.

Aang takes a few minutes and chooses to have Zuko and Iroh as his firebending teachers much to Sokka’s exasperation. Katara says that it will be ok, and if they try something, the Gaang will retaliate.

After a long waiting, Aang tells Zuko and Iroh that he wants them as his mentors in firebending and together will find the answers about how the war started and what the Avatar was doing during that time; however, he warns them that if they betray the group or try anything, the consequences will be dire. Both accept Aang’s terms.

The rest of the day continues with Aang having trouble at first with earthbending until he faces saber-toothed Moose-Lion that wanted to kill him and Sokka for touching its cub and next Toph when she tried to use Aang’s glider again as a nutcracker. Then it goes to Zuko who still struggles with lightningbending. Iroh teaches him a new movement he invented to redirect lightning but things go south when Zuko wants to try it and asks Iroh to shoot him lightning which the former general refuses.

Angry at his refusal, Zuko leaves to find a storm and redirect lightning on his own prompting Iroh to ask for help from the Gaang. Sokka and Katara still don't want anything to do with the prince, Toph is resting, so it's up to Aang to prevent Zuko from getting himself killed.

Hours later, a raging storm happens and Zuko waits anxiously for lightning to strike. Aang comes to his side and tells him this isn't a good idea and Iroh is worried about him. Zuko doesn't listen to him and keeps waiting but only rain and strong winds come from the storm.

Aang tries again and politely asks Zuko to reconsider this method as it is too dangerous. Zuko snaps saying that of course, the Avatar would think that because for him bending is easier than for anyone else.

Aang argues that not, bending is not easy for him just because he can bend 4 elements, he even had trouble with earthbending because it resorts to a mentality opposite to his. Aang then gets an idea: he asks Zuko what is the mentality behind lightningbending. The prince answers why that is important and Aang explains that by adapting to the mentality and flow of another bending, the job becomes easier and it should apply to lightningbending.

Zuko is not sure about this but seeing that the storm hasn't struck him yet and he's getting cold, he relents and comes back to the camp with Aang.

After returning to the camp, Iroh talks with Zuko privately about what this alliance means for them and the Fire Nation. He explains that now that they will be Aang’s teachers, they can't and shouldn't stop him from defeating Ozai.

Zuko doesn't like that, saying he's no traitor. Iroh says that they technically are after accepting being Aang’s mentors but they plan to find answers about the war, about how the Fire Nation lost its honor and became how it is today.

Zuko says that by letting the Avatar defeat the Fire Lord, his status as a prince will be nothing because he will be remembered as a traitor who aided him to beat his own country.

Iroh asks him to ask himself what is more important, what is a worthy goal for a prince: redeem his country from the many sins it has committed in a false sense of honor, or be as opportunistic as he can.

Meanwhile, the Gaang is also having a private conversation.

Sokka says that they have forgotten the fact that their unwanted new members might go against the team when Aang is ready to fight the Fire Lord.

Toph suggests keeping an eye on them and if there is doubt or one of the two plans something, they will interrogate them and kick their butts.

Katara agrees with Toph despite her increased worries that accepting them as Aang’s teachers might have put the team in danger. Aang wants to be optimistic about the situation but Sokka decides that to make sure there will be no betrayals, they will talk with Zuko and Iroh immediately.

To his surprise, the other two also want to talk with the Gaang and the group gathers in a circle.

Sokka goes first saying if they can really trust them because Zuko is the Fire Lord’s son (I don't remember if that bit of info was said by Zuko in the first episode of the show, by the way) and he accepted to help Aang which he considers suspicious because Zuko was determined to capture him time ago.

Zuko answers that yes he used to have that as a goal but things have changed; however, he's still loyal to his nation.

Katara replies he isn't helping his case by saying that stuff.

Iroh butts by going to the topic of the assassin. Ozai sent him to eliminate both of them much to Zuko’s lingering denial. Iroh explains that he is technically a traitor to the Fire Nation after helping protect the Moon Spirit while Zuko’s status is uncertain but it's not that Ozai would care about that. He then goes with the news about Ozai’s new heir, Chiyo, which surprises the Gaang.

Katara asks if she will be a threat but Iroh tells her that the new heir is a 3-year-old child Ozai is using to extend his bloodline.

Zuko bitterly replies that he is the true heir, he is technically the firstborn, and the brat is a replacement because he couldn't keep his mouth shut at the war meeting.

Aang kindly says that he shouldn't be so mean to his half-sister because she doesn't even know Ozai only wants her to get rid of him.

Zuko snaps saying that how could he know how this feels, he is the Avatar, and he is well-loved by everyone and respected, meanwhile, the prince was burnt, banished, and now replaced with a brat.

Toph tells him he's making his case much worse because now it seems his only goals are the throne and kicking Chiyo out of his home instead of fixing the mistakes of the Fire Nation and finding answers.

Iroh agrees with her which enrages Zuko further.

“Of course, you would say that!! You don't even have to lift a finger to make your own father like you! You're Grandfather Azulon’s favorite child and firstborn after all! He even defended you when my father wanted to take the throne from you after my cousin died!!” Zuko storms off.

The Gaang asks for an explanation and Iroh tiredly summarizes Zuko’s life before the banishment: his hardships in trying to have Ozai’s validation and love, the disappearance of his mother and younger sister who was a prodigy and the favorite child, the war meeting that ended up in banishment, and then he narrates Zhao giving the news about the new heir.

After processing this information, Sokka asks if both are really trustworthy, Iroh says he wanted Zuko to see the wrongness of the Fire Nation because he hated the idea of his nephew following his father’s steps and being a slave of the toxic mindset of the country. He then admits it will be harder than he thought because of the new heir and the assassin forcing him to accept that Ozai never loved him but Iroh is sure Zuko can change for the better and he as a Fire Lord can help the world.

Aang asks why Iroh doesn't take his rightful place on the throne and Iroh responds that before his son’s death, making his father and forefathers proud and gaining more power were his goals but now he prefers other stuff now, power isn't in that list.

Toph says that even if he doesn't care about power anymore, shouldn't he make sure the Fire Nation doesn't fall apart after the war? What if Zuko isn't well-prepared to rule?

Iroh responds that he has been studying and training for years before his banishment but Toph considers that insufficient and an adult is a better candidate for that position anyway. Katara then intervenes saying that what's most important is being 100% sure Iroh and Zuko are on their side and helping Aang defeat Ozai, after that, they can take care of who's going to be a proper Fire Lord and how to make reparations to the other nations.

Iroh is left thinking about this.

The next day, the whole team embarks on to the Si Wong desert to find the Library with a professor from Ba Sing Se. According to him, that library is guarded by a giant spirit and contains invaluable knowledge. Iroh murmurs that he feels like this was told to him some time ago, Zuko asks him what he's talking about and if he entered that library. Iroh only answers that someone mentioned a library but he can't remember who was.

Like in canon, Toph and Appa wait for the team while they look for clues to defeat the Fire Nation. When the rest of the Gaang and the professor meet Wan Shi Tong, the owl spirit, that’s when Iroh remembers and he hid himself and Zuko much to the other’s annoyance. Iroh explains that during the Siege to the North Water Tribe, Zhao told him about a library in which he had found information about the Moon Spirit and that by killing it, waterbending would be no more, giving the Fire Nation a huge advantage.

Iroh adds that if Wan Shi Tong discovers he and Zuko are from the Fire Nation and know Zhao they will be killed instantly, therefore they need to get out and wait with Toph.

Zuko asks what if there was more than one library? What if this isn’t the one?

Iroh doesn’t want to take any chances and pulls Zuko with him to get out of the library. Meanwhile, Aang, Katara, and Sokka keep looking for weaknesses to defeat the Fire Nation. Aang stops and says “Wait, wouldn’t it have been better to ask Zuko and Iroh for that?”, Katara agrees with him; however, Sokka objects that they might not have the clues they need like the library.

Their conversation turns into a debate about choosing one of the two options: asking Zuko and Iroh for vital info or finding it in the library. Aang says having both sources of information is much better than one and they go with that, the problem is that Zuko and Iroh aren’t with them much to their shock.

Much worse, Wan Shi Tong had eavesdropped on their chit-chat because he was still suspicious of the Gaang and refuses to let them leave. He starts attacking them and sinking the library on the sand which gets Zuko and Iroh’s attention. Iroh tells Zuko to run away, he will find the others and get them out of there.

The prince reluctantly obliges and tries to find the window they used to enter.

Meanwhile, Toph senses the library sinking and tries to stop it, and much to her bad luck, a group of sandbenders arrives and surrounds Appa. Toph does her best to defend him but between the unstable ground that is the desert, the number of enemies, and preventing the library to sink with her friends, the task is too much.

Inside the library, Iroh defends the group and asks what’s going on, Sokka answers with “Where the hell were you two?!”, the former general replies that he will explain later but now he needs some context. Katara quickly summarizes the situation and the general tells them to find out when exactly the next eclipse will be. Aang asks “Shouldn’t you know about that?”, Iroh replies that he and Zuko have been sailing for years, there was no time for that. The rest of the Gaang is ushered to the stellar room to decipher when the next eclipse will be while Iroh battles the angered owl spirit.

On the other side, Zuko finally is out of the library just to find out that the sandbenders are taking Appa away. He throws some fireballs at them scaring them away but also Appa who gets out of control and knocks some sandbenders with his tail. Zuko frees Appa and the bison knocks the whole group of sandbenders with airbending. They give up and flee.

The prince then turns around and sees that Toph is struggling to keep the library out of the sand. She asks where are the others and Zuko says that Iroh is taking care of that.

Again inside the library, the rest of the Gaang finally has the information they want and tells Iroh about it. The former general shoots lightning at the ceiling, forcing Wan Shi Tong to protect himself with his wing.

Aang summons a huge tornado to carry everyone, even the professor much to his disappointment, and get them out of there.

He succeeds, prompting Toph to let the library sink completely.

A bit battered, exhausted, but safe, the whole group rejoices except the professor who is horrified that the Avatar has as an ally a firebender, pointing accordingly at Iroh. He and Aang try to calm him down and explain but the professor doesn't want to hear any of it and leaves.

Aang argues that traveling through the desert without an animal to take him to safety or supplies to withstand the heat, he won't make it. The professor snaps at him calling him a hypocrite for worrying over him when he has in his group a firebender, the same kind of people that started the war and is still killing innocents, and if Aang is really that concerned about the world, he should kill Iroh immediately before it's too late.

As to he professor leaves, Katara consoles Aang and Sokka prepares Appa for their next destination: Ba Sing Se.

And this is part 1 of Season 2.

#submission #AvatarAU #Azula disappears and everyone suffers the consequences AU #Avatar season 2 #Avatar The Legend of Aang #au idea

21 notes · View notes