#roku light flashing

[oneforthemunny]

yayo (remastered) |older!dilf!eddie munson x reader|

prompt: when your younger sister calls you to pick her and her friend up, it leads you to meeting her friend's dad.

this is the first chapter of the older!eddie remaster! title stays the same, i'm just revamping it :) you can read the original series here!

contains: age gap (eddie is early forties, reader is late twenties early thirties, all consensual), language, teenage stupidity of younger siblings (and their friends) lol, slightly mean eddie but not really.

word count: 3.5k+

“Hello?” A groggy, croak of an answer fell from your lip. Eyelids pulled together, weights of sleep held them closed, pressing the cool screen of your phone to your ear. 

There was a pause, nearly timid in response. “Hey.” The familiar tone ridded whatever sleepiness you still felt, kickstarted every instinct of panic, flooding through your veins, right down to your core. 

“It’s me.” You pulled the phone away to check anyways, Madeline’s name flashing across the screen, still decorated with a flurry of bright, smiley emojis from when she added them years ago. 

“What’s wrong?” Call it older sister instinct, maybe dread, but you knew by the tightness in her tone something was wrong. 

“Will you do me a favor?” Madeline sucked in a breath from the other line. “A big favor, like a huge one. Please, I’ll owe you one back forever, and-” 

“-What do you need?” You muttered, too groggy to be fully annoyed, legs swinging out of the warmth of your covers to the frigid wood of the apartment’s floor. Using the soft, purple glow of Roku Village on the TV, you stumbled around towards the light switch. “Are you alright?” 

“Yeah, I am. Well, I mean- like physically, I’m fine.” Madeline paused, hesitation filling the line. “Look, you can’t tell Mom or Dad. Do you swear?” 

“What did you do?” There was the irritation, falling with a huff of pure annoyance, one only a younger sibling could bring- affection and annoyance, blended together and pouring from your tongue. 

“No, you gotta swear. Swear on your life you won’t tell.” Madeline’s voice was fiercer now, that hushed tone that you were too familiar with. 

“Ok, I swear. What do you need? Why the hell are you calling me at,” You pulled your phone back, blearily blinking to clear the clouded sleep in your vision. “Christ, at two in the morning?-”

“-Don’t start.” Madeline rolled her eyes. “C-Can you come get me and my friend?”

“From where?” You frowned, stopping in the middle of the room. 

“We’re in Chestnut Square, you know the neighborhood that the Henson’s live in? It’s, like, two streets over. I can drop you a pin.” Madeline danced around the request. 

“Why are you there?” You knew. Of course you knew. It wasn’t all that long ago you were in Chestnut Square or near the Quarry by Lover’s Lake, sipping on wine coolers and shitty beers that someone got from the gas station by the high school that never carded. 

“Why do you think I’m here?” Madeline clipped in annoyance, a huff of staticed annoyance falling from the other line. “I’m at a party-” 

“-On a Wednesday?” You scoffed. “You couldn’t even wait until Friday or Saturday like a normal delinquent? On a weekday, Madeline, seriously-” 

“-Look, can you come pick me up or not?” Madeline snapped, and you could practically see her eyes roll through the phone. “I didn’t drive. Brielle and I got picked up and the guy who brought us, he’s… he’s not doing great right now, and we just need to get home. Can you please come pick us up?” 

The streets were a ghost town as you cruised towards the neighborhood, opposite from your downtown apartment. You had work tomorrow, an early shift. Madeline couldn’t have done this yesterday on your off day, or even Friday when you closed. Your jaw set at the thought, a burst of sleep deprived, inconveniencing annoyance bursting in your chest, burning with bother. 

Still, Madeline was your baby sister, difficult as she was, you were glad she called you. 

You followed the automated voice towards the end of the neighborhood, the house bright with lights and lined with cars. Madeline was on the curb, arm wrapped tightly around the girl beside her, steadying her sway. 

“Hey,” Madeline muttered, pulling the door open. “Thank you so much. Seriously, you’re the best.” 

“The best.” Brielle slid in before Madeline. Well, slid was generous, more like fell into your back seat. 

Brielle Munson had been Madeline’s best friend for years. A staple in her childhood, and therefore a figure in your own life. Countless sleepovers, birthday parties, you’d even carpooled them to school your senior year when they started middle school. 

As well as you knew her, you never took her as the black out on a Wednesday type, but your mother had often made passing, hushed tone comments about Brielle’s own mother. “She’s a little different. Kinda a wild card.” Your mother muttered to you one day, brows raising in a pointed look. You didn’t know much about Brielle’s family, never met them. Brielle always came over to your family’s house- you figured that was why. 

“Is she good?” You muttered, pulling the rearview mirror down, angling it towards Brielle. Her head pressed in slopped defeat against the cool window, forehead rolling over the cold glass. 

Madeline turned. “Brie, you good?” 

“‘M good, ‘m good. Are we gonna get Cook Out?”  Brielle slurred, cheek pressed to the window. 

You huffed, another thing to add to the mental list of Madeline’s inconveniences- cleaning your windows of the foundation Brielle left behind tomorrow. 

“Is she gonna puke?” You huffed, shoving the gear into place, rolling away from the front of the house. 

“No, she’s not gonna puke-” 

“-Madeline, if she fuckin’ pukes, I swear to God, you will be cleaning it tonight.” You sneer, eyes flickering towards the rearview to see Brielle. “I can’t handle puke, I will not handle puke-” 

“-She won’t puke.” Madeline huffed, arms crossing over her chest in annoyance. “Brie, don’t puke.” 

“I won’t.” Brielle muttered, slouching down the window. 

“She’s almost asleep. She’s good.” Madeline shook her head. “We gotta take Brielle home first. Take a right up here.” She pointed out the window. 

“Great, I’m the fucking Uber tonight, too? Madeline, I have to work in the morning-” 

“-It’s literally two minutes away.” Madeline rolled her eyes. “She’s at her dad’s tonight. It won’t take that long. I just have to get her back in her room- shit.” Madeline turned in her seat, tapping Brielle’s knee. “Brie, you gotta wake up, ok? You have to get back to your room.” 

“Nice.” You threw your hands up, irritation bubbling to a raging boil in your chest. “You’ve got to sneak her back in? How are you gonna do that?” 

“She snuck out through her window, chill.” Madeline rolled her eyes. “Turn right at the light.” 

“So, you’re going to do what? Shove her back in? I’m not helping you. I said I’d come pick you up, and that’s it-” 

“-Did I ask you to help? No.” Madeline snarled. “Brielle, wake up, seriously.” 

“I’m literally awake.” Brielle groaned, though her eyes stayed shut. 

“Where am I going?” You threw a hand out lightly. 

“Keep going straight.” Madeline muttered, body still twisted towards the back. “Brie, do you have your phone?” 

“I think so.” Brielle muttered, lazily patting herself before turning towards the seat. “Oh, ‘s right here.” 

“Turn left into this neighborhood. Then at the stop sign take a right, her house is on the corner.” Madeline turned back towards you. 

You flicked the turn signal on with dramatic irritation, gliding into the neighborhood to the small house on the corner of the street, the edge of the cul de sac. Bloomington Lane, the street sign stood proudly above the stop sign at the edge of the road. 

“Cut your lights.” Madeline muttered, climbing over the center console towards the back of the car. You felt like you were in high school again, flooding of your own memories, sneaking your friends back inside, coming through the unlocked window in the guest room. Watching Madeline help Brielle, crouched over her trying to get her sober enough to walk, it felt like a lifetime and yesterday all at once. 

Your reminiscent memories were cut short when the porch light flicked on, a blinding cast of warm light cutting through the calm, dark of the street. 

“Shit,” Madeline hissed, wide eyed and caught, looking out the window. “Shit, shit, shit, Brie, you gotta get up. You gotta get up for real, your dad is here, Brie.” 

“No, he’s asleep.” Brielle muttered, head lolling back against the seat drunkenly. 

“Madeline.” You hissed, eyes cutting towards the porch, a silhouette of a man stalking furiously towards you. You weren’t sure if you should look, turn away, drive away, a sweaty, knuckled grip on the steering wheel. 

“Fuck, that’s Brielle’s dad.” Madeline whispered. 

“Madeline,” You growled through gritted teeth. “What the fuck-” You jumped, bare knuckles rapping furiously on your window. Through the glare of the radio on your window, you could see him on the other side. 

“Hi,” You squeaked, rolling down the window. “Sorry, I-I’m just-” 

“-Who the fuck are you?” His voice boomed, sharp and cutting as the look on his face. You flinched under the tone. 

“I-I,-” 

“-Hi, Mr. Munson.” Madeline peeked timidly around your seat. His dark eyes flicked towards her, still narrowed in intimidating challenge. “We’re just, we’re bringing Brielle home.” Madeline’s voice shook, though she tried to swallow it, steady it. “This is my sister.” 

You waved, tongue too thick and swollen to say anything. Now you really felt like you were in high school again, scared shitless, caught like a deer in blinding headlights by a furious parent. 

“She came and got Brielle and I.” Madeline didn’t offer any more explanation, instead nodding towards Brielle. 

“The fuck is wrong with her?” The spitting venom in his tone made you jump. 

“She-She just had too much to drink.” You stammered, hands still gripping the wheel. 

He tore open the backseat door, Madeline holding Brielle to keep her from falling limply out onto the concrete. “What is wrong with her? Did someone drug her?” He snapped, holding Brielle carefully. 

“No, no, n-no, I was there with her all night. We brought our own-” Madeline cringed at the glare Mr. Munson gave her. You cringed for her. “She didn’t get drugged. I-I made sure. I watched her, she just… she had too much to drink, Mr. Munson, I’m so sorry.” 

“Where’d you get it from?” He sneered, pulling his daughter out of the car with a gritted grunt. “You buy it for them?” His eyes were back on you, so harsh it had you jumping. 

“No.” You and Madeline squeaked in unison. 

“I just came and-and got them-” 

“-I called her to make sure she’d get us home safe.” Madeline added, head bobbing furiously in a nervous nod. 

“Yeah.” You looked at Madeline, then back at the fuming man. Brielle sliding in his arms, limp in his hold. “Here, I-I can help you get her in-” 

“-No.” He sneered, pulling Brielle up, ignoring her muttered huffs of protest. “I don’t need your help. You’ve done enough tonight.” You felt small under his glare, biting tone that had you shrinking into your seat. 

“I-I’m really sorry.” You muttered nervously, heart drumming with adrenaline, with fear. You didn’t know why you were apologizing, if anything, you’d made the one smart decision of the night. You thought Mr. Munson might appreciate that you’d gone to bring his daughter home safe. 

The narrowed eye glare he tossed you before he was dragging Brielle towards the house, told you he did not appreciate your vigilant efforts. Your face drained, a flush of heat and icy fear sinking in the pit of your stomach. He slammed the door so hard, you were surprised the glass swinging door didn’t shatter to pieces right there on the porch. 

You turned to Madeline, fists still clenched around the steering wheel. “You owe me. You owe me so much more now, like forever. For the rest of your life.” You sneered, shoving the gear shift into drive, peeling off the curb. You couldn’t get away from Bloomington Lane fast enough. 

“You alright?” Lydia’s brows furrow at your third- fourth yawn of the shift. A shift that had just begun, your teeth ground tight in annoyance. 

“Yeah.” You nodded, snapping the receipt cover down. “Is there any way I could get off register? I’m just super tired. My brain’s not really wanting to work this morning.” 

“Yeah, for sure. You sure you’re alright?” Lydia’s head tilted to the side, snapping the plastic lid to the latte expertly. You and Lydia Allcott had practically grown up together, been in school since Kindergarten. It was lucky, you guessed, that she was your manager. Perks of a small town like Hawkins. 

“Yeah, I’m just exhausted. I was up all night because Madeline is a moron. Snuck out and I had to drive her and her friend home, and then her friend’s dad was waiting outside when she got  home- it’s just been a night, honestly.” You rubbed the base of your neck, working out a knot that was already beginning to form from your restless night. 

Lydia sucked in a breath. “Oh,” She shook her head. “I forget you have a younger sister.” 

You snort lightly, pouring the steaming dark roast into the cup. “Yeah, me too. Until she does something stupid like that.” 

Lydia smirked, sliding the drink down the bar. “Brooke just got here. Tell her to hop on register, and you can go clean the tables.” 

You had never been so happy to be carrying the soapy, black bucket out on the floor, sudsy rag dragging slowly across the empty tables. It was slow for a Thursday, the morning school and work rush dwindled down to a ghost town. Not that you were complaining. 

The bell trilled over the door behind you, Brooke’s cheery, fake greeting echoing through the store. You didn’t turn, pushing the rag over the table, dunking it back in the bucket, wringing it out, and repeating. A rhythmic task that had your mind numbed, zoned in brainlessly from table to table. 

“Hi.” You jumped slightly, soapy water spilling over the lip of the bucket onto the table.

Your posture straightened, turning with the expectancy of a customer wanting some specific table cleaned that you hadn’t yet got to. Instead, you were met with a familiar pair of dark eyes, not as furious as they’d been last night but burning even in the low light of the cafe. 

“Hi.” You squeaked, gripping the rag in your hand, the water dripping between your fingers. “Um, wha-what can I help you with, Mr. Munson?” Fuck, he’d come back to scream some more. And at your work? How did he even know? You didn’t even have it on Facebook. 

You were shocked when his lips twitched, a faint pull of smirk on his lips. “I don’t mean to bother you.” He started, hand wrapped around the small cup in his hand. “I’m not here to- I’m here to apologize.” 

You couldn’t speak, tongue stupidly thick in your mouth again. Instead you nodded, a soft bob of your head. “And I wanted to thank you for bringing Brielle home last night. For making sure she got home alright. She could have…” He shook his head, looking over at the window. 

“She could have done something stupid, and I’m glad you were there so she didn’t.” Your heart leapt when his eyes met yours again, a pounding in your ears that rang through your whole body. 

“I-It’s really no problem.” You stuttered, voice wavering on embarrassingly unsure. 

“No, it means a lot, and I was a complete ass to you last night, and I’m here to say I’m sorry for that.” Your eyes lingered over the patch on his coveralls, a cursive, embroidered ‘Eddie’ over the faded blue patch. 

“I shouldn’t’ve been such a dick, but you go to say goodnight to your kid, and there’s a pile of pillows instead, and- I know you don’t get it. You’re too young.” He motioned at you casually. Your cheeks burned, looking down at your bucket, hand still stupidly gripping the rag under the water. 

“But y’know, if you have kids of your own, you’ll get it.” Eddie continued, his own ramblings a little rushed. Was he nervous? 

“Yeah- I mean, i-it really was no issue. I’m glad she got home safe.” You smiled softly at him. 

A pause fell between the two of you, both of you shifting a little uncomfortably at it. “I hope this isn’t weird.” You looked at him. “Me coming here. I asked Brielle where you worked so I could apologize.” 

“No, it’s- thank you. You didn’t need to apologize, I mean. I get why you were mad, I do.” You cringed inwardly at your own nervous rambling. “But, um, I appreciate it. You apologizing, I mean. I’m glad she got home safe.” 

Eddie nodded, fingers curling around his drink. “Me too.” He nodded. “Glad she has Madeline too, to look after her. That they’re friends. I mean, Brie’s always been good at makin’ friends. She’s really talkative.” Your heart swelled lightly at the way he lit up when he talked about Brielle, boasting with pride and joy. It tugged on your own heart strings. 

“Yeah, Madeline is too. She loves Brie, though. Brielle sees her more than me.” You giggled lightly. 

Eddie snorted softly, lips curling in a grin. “Yeah, you too? Thought it was just me.” He shook his head, curls bouncing lightly. You tried not to stare. “Makes me feel a little better, then. At least I know it’s not all me.” 

You weren’t sure what to say, offering a nervous smile and soft giggle, adjusting the bucket on your hip. That familiar pause of silence flooded back between the two of you, not as uncomfortable as before but still hinting at discomfort. 

“So, I wanted to say thank you, and sorry for being such an asshole.” Eddie nodded, foot tapping lightly against the floor. “But, uh, I’d really like to make it up to you.” Your eyes lifted, snapping towards his own gaze carefully. 

“I'd like to treat you to dinner if you're free. Just to show my appreciation for keeping my girl safe.” Eddie started, eyes watching yours carefully. 

Your heart hammered, breath caught- strangled in your throat. “Oh,” You managed to squeak out. “That would be f-fine.” Your head was still spinning before you could register what you were even saying. 

Saying yes to Brielle’s dad? Her father, much older than you, certainly than the type of man you usually let take you to dinner. Still, he wasn’t unattractive. Coverall sleeves rolled enough to see his inked arms, chest broad under the thick material. He didn’t look old, not shriveled and gross. He was nice to look at, even. You certainly didn’t mind looking at him. 

“I-I have to close tomorrow, but I’m free Saturday night.” Your heart jumped, shocked at your own boldness. Eddie’s brows lifted slightly, lips curling on the edge of a grin. “If you’re available, of course. Sorry, I- when works best for you?” 

“Saturday night is perfect.” Eddie’s voice was calm, a steady tone that had your rattled nerves soothing, at least to a low roar in your chest. 

“Great.” You smiled, a little too eager, far less cool than you would have liked. Why were you so nervous? Maybe excited?

“Um, let me give you my phone number?” It sounded more like a question, setting the bucket on the table, wiping your wet, dripping hand on your black apron. You fished a pen out of the pocket, hoping Eddie couldn’t see the way your hands trembled lightly, buzzing with giddy excitement. 

“And you can just text me a-and let me know where to meet you.” You pulled a napkin out of the dispenser, chin dunking to write your digits on the thin paper. 

“I’ll pick you up.” Eddie nodded. Your gaze lifted to him, the finality in his tone, firm but oddly not pushy? It was foreign to you, sent bolts of exhilaration trickling through your spine. 

You started to protest, lips pulling in a slight frown. Eddie shook his head. “I’m old school, sweetheart. I’ll come and get you.” He smiled, eyes much warmer than you’d seen them, the hinting of dimples creasing underneath his stubble. 

Your knees tensed, swallowing down a bubbling of nervous giggles, giving a wide smile instead. Your fingertips brushed when you handed him the napkin, a featherlight touch that had your body roaring with fever. 

“I’ll see you Saturday.” Eddie smiled, so effortlessly cool it made your stomach flip-flop. “You don’t work too hard now, y’hear?” He teased, tossing you a wink that did pull out the nervous giggles you couldn’t swallow down this time. 

"Bye." You waved, the rag in your hand flopping against your wrist, cringing when the droplets hit your face. Eddie waved back, tucking the napkin in his pocket before he disappeared out the double doors. 

The drag in your feet was replaced with a springing pep in your step. Greeting customers with a cheery smile, much less dreadful than your usually forced one. Even the huffy soccer moms ordering with the usual demanding entitlement that would have you gritting your teeth. It didn’t bother you, chest light and airy with excitement, mind racing with giddy excitement about your date.

[rokurookajima]

and although i was burning | waava week 2024 - memorial

fandom: legend of korra

summary: The flashes of light, the faces she’s known and the ones she’s never seen disintegrating in a burst of flame. The last face that lingers longer than the rest. That one repeating over and over again, and her chest aches. Korra says, "she just realized they’re all gone.” // Korra, Raava, and collateral damage. Post-Book 2 Finale. Pretty heavily implied Wan/Raava (obviously, it's me). notes: OKAY okay...listen. i watched the book 2 finale for the first time in YEARS yesterday during a tattoo appointment, which only mildly numbed the pain (of the finale). today, i opened google docs to work on chapter 5 of claw machine, then classic twilight soundtrack banger A Thousand Years by Christina Perri came on autoplay, i lost my mind for a little bit, and when i came to, we had this. i'm so sad bro. 11 years, and there are some wounds time will never heal...waava week is not over for me

;;

There is light. It’s blinding. It’s pain. 

It’s tendrils of iridescent white smashing against rock and Korra is reaching, but she can’t reach far enough, and every strike brings new pain.

It’s faces. There are faces. 

There are faces she knows, and faces only Raava knows. She is seeing through Raava’s eyes instead of Raava through hers. 

Aang. Roku. Kyoshi. Kuruk. All of them her, all of them lined up, all of them burning. 

She’s feeling what Raava feels. 

They burn faster and faster, and all Korra hears inside of her own head is Raava’s voice, Raava’s pain, Raava’s screams . 

Then there is Wan. Only Wan. 

They see him longer than the rest and on a nightmarish loop, Korra feels her beg—

Please let me keep this one—please, please, please, let me just keep this one, not him, please—

He burns. 

There is only black. 

read more

[my-cabbages-gorl]

Original fic & other things consolidation post

Everything listed in this post is my original work (including the banner above heh :) Please mind the tags on each fic! Search #cabbage art tag to find my art- some, not all, is smutty so please be warned!

Inheritance- Read on Ao3 - Longer One-shot, Aang and Zuko spend a wine and laughter-soaked night reading through unsent letters from Sozin to Roku on the eve of Aang's 27th birthday festival. Written for Zukaang mini Bingo April 2024

Delicate- Read on Ao3-Short one-shot of Aang and Zuko's relationship facing a painful memory 10 years post-war, written for Flash Fic Friday

First Light- Read on Ao3- A cozy, smutty, sunrise imagery-drenched, and slightly angsty one-shot of Aang and Zuko 14 years post-war. Written for Avatar-Year-Of-The-Dragon prompt, "Have your way with me"

I Know- Read on Ao3- An extremely, let me repeat extremely lol, self-indulgent smutty one-shot of Aang and Zuko's established relationship.

Marigold, chapter 1 of Blue- Read on Ao3- The first chapter of an in-progress Zukaang fic, exploring their delicate love for one another through the sometimes harsh complexity of their lives as leaders. Bewitched - Read on Ao3 - ongoing series- Originally ch. 1 was written for Flash Fic Friday, but turned into an ongoing fic about Aang and Zuko questioning their relationship in the face of Zuko being pressured to find a wife and produce an heir, 6 chapters up so far stay tuned!

Mercy and Lightning - ficlet inspired by this post - Zuko won't let Aang rest until he's mastered redirecting lightning

[saucy-mesothelioma]

October 29th: Meso's Honorable Mentions | The Exorcist III

The Exorcist III was released in 1990 and was directed by William Peter Blatty. Seventeen years after the exorcism of Regan and the death of Father Karras, grisly killings begin to take place in Georgetown, Washington D.C. Lieutenant William F. Kinderman (George C. Scott) is determined to crack the case, but he's shocked and skeptical when an inmate of a psychiatric institution known as Patient X (Jason Miller) claims to have the answers he seeks. Patient X claims that the infamous Gemini Killer (Brad Dourif) has returned, but how can that be when the Gemini Killer has been dead for seventeen years?

Despite the success of The Exorcist, it's well-known that its sequel Exorcist II: The Heretic was a steaming pile of shit. But with the author of The Exorcist novel directing The Exorcist III, the film actually manages to hold up incredibly well. The Exorcist III is not only a possession story, but it's also a crime investigation film, managing to find a great medium between the two sub-genres. The acting in this movie are absolutely fantastic, with George C. Scott and Brad Dourif's performances are simply inspired. I personally think Dourif's performance in this movie is one of his most underrated; it is genuinely mesmerizing to watch. The atmosphere itself is breathtaking as well, feeling cold and cynic that perfectly compliments the story of the movie. Although The Exorcist III does fall victim to too much studio interference, in my opinion it deserves far more recognition that it gets as a fairly decent sequel to such an influential horror movie.

It can be watched for free on Tubi, Pluto TV, Sling TV, The Roku Channel, PLEX, and Crackle.

Content Warnings for the Film (may contain spoilers): violence, mentioned blackface (never seen and it's done to someone posthumously), religious themes, jumpscares (one of the best ever), slight flashing lights, racial Italian slur, very slight gore, suicide (only aftermath shown)

[dreamfilleddonuts]

Girlfriend and I just watched The Heathers Musical on the Roku Channel and OH MY GODS it is EVERYTHING I have ever asked of a preformance of this musical. I was confused by some of the songs being replaced, especially as I quite like Blue, but I agree its too silly a song for the tone of what is actually happening to Veronica at the time. Also THE GHOSTS INTERACTING WITH HER. ACTUALLY INTERACTING WITH HER. Not just off behind her or on a side stage like a greek chorus. Which... yeah that's what they are. But they are the MANIFESTATIONS OF HER GUILT so them interacting with her, hanging off her, menacing her? Was EVERYTHING. So was her hitting JD with a croquet mallet in the boiler room on the word "TNT" which is how I always imagined the scene, yet never happens in any bootleg recording I saw on youtube. And they didnt woobify JD but made him as crazy and scary (if not as much an abusive shitbag but that's just the script) as he is in the movie it's based on.

Did NOT like the bright flashing lights as my girlfriend is epileptic, but thankfully I was ahead of her just enough seconds to warn her each time.

[colorviewfinderco-blog]

Roku Soundbar Flashing Orange Light

Roku Soundbar Flashing Orange Light Roku soundbars are popular devices that enhance your TV’s audio experience, providing rich sound quality for movies, music, and games. However, encountering a flashing orange light on your Roku soundbar can be concerning. This article will guide you through understanding what the orange light means, troubleshooting steps, and tips for maintaining your soundbar.…

[gacmediadaily]

Merry Christmas, Everyone! Advent Week #2 is upon us this Sunday! Oh, what a joyous, glorious time!

On this 2nd Sunday of Advent, we are awaiting God's promise, His Son, Jesus, with preparation and expectation! This second candle we light represents peace, the Prince of Peace! Christ came to offer himself in our place and die for our sins. By faith, we can receive His Son, and as Romans 5:1 tells us, we can "have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."

Great American Pure Flix recently posted this inspirational, uplifting video in celebration of Advent with actor Lucas Black, who you may recognize from shows like NCIS, NCIS: New Orleans, or his Great American Pure Flix films: Legacy Peak and Birthright Outlaw.

My first memory of Lucas is from a movie called Flash, released in 1997! Lucas portrayed a 14 year old boy, who rescues a horse from an abusive owner. Unfortunately, I haven't seen this movie for years, but it was so powerful, I still remember it with great fondness, and Lucas' acting, even as a young boy, was not only memorable, but phenomenal. I hope in addition to making movies for Great American Pure Flix, we will also see him on Great American Family one day!

In the video below, Lucas Black reads the scripture John 1:14 and shares how those words touched his heart this Christmas...

What a beautiful message about God's amazing love - that He sent His Son, Jesus, to live among us! Jesus is truly the BEST Gift of Christmas - when we choose to receive Him in our hearts! May we all feel God's love and share this incredible joy of knowing God's peace with others this Christmas! Click here for the Sinner's Prayer************************************

Are you familiar with the program Praise, which airs regularly on TBN? If not, here are some details on the show via TBN's website: "On the air since 1973, Trinity Broadcasting Network's flagship ministry and talk show Praise is one of the most recognizable — and most-watched — Christian programs in the world. Hosted by TBN’s own Matt and Laurie Crouch along with other popular personalities, Praise features the best in contemporary Christian music and worship, fresh and impacting ministry voices, engaging interviews from a wide variety of guests..." On Thursday, December 7th, 2023, TBN aired an all-new hour long interview with actress Danica McKellar and Great American Media's CEO Bill Abbott on TBN's Praise, hosted by Matt and Laurie Crouch. Of course, the main highlighted topic was about creating quality movies with faith and wholesome content the entire family can enjoy. You will also be blessed to hear Danica's testimony and how she discovered her faith with guidance from her dear friend, Candace Cameron Bure. Here's a direct link to watch the interview. As you can see in the image above, the Praise set is incredible! Huge! I loved seeing images from various Great American Family movies floating around on the big screen behind them as they spoke. Please Note: In order to watch this interview, you will have to create an account with a password, or TBN will send a link to your email; it is completely free to sign up through whichever option you choose. You can watch this program on your computer or mobile device. I also have the TBN app on my Roku, so I was able to watch the program directly on my TV.

I hope you will enjoy this delightful interview as much as I did!

God's blessings to you all!

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

Net

[etmonks]

How to Set Up a Flood Light with a Camera  

Home security has never been more accessible and efficient with the Floodlight Camera. This state-of-the-art device boasts a plethora of features designed to provide you with peace of mind and convenience. In this article, we will walk you through the setup process, installation tips, and how to make the most of your floodlight camera.

Buy Blink Security Camera on Amazon

Key Features

The Floodlight Camera offers an impressive array of features that make it a top choice for home security:

Crystal Clear Full HD Image: Regardless of lighting conditions, this camera delivers a crisp, Full HD image. With color night vision, you'll never miss a thing.

Two-Way Communication: Engage in simultaneous two-way communication, allowing you to interact with visitors or deter potential intruders.

Super Bright Light: The integrated floodlight provides exceptional illumination, enhancing security and deterring unwanted visitors.

Weatherproof Design: Built to withstand the elements, this camera is designed to keep working in rain or shine.

Secure Cloud Storage: For added convenience and peace of mind, secure cloud storage is available through the Roku Smart Home Subscription. Plus, you can activate a loud siren to scare away intruders when necessary.

Setting Up Floodlight Camera

Before you embark on setting up your Floodlight Camera, here's a list of what you'll need:

Floodlight Camera: Ensure you have the floodlight camera unit ready for installation.

Mounting Hardware: Most floodlight cameras come with the required mounting hardware. Double-check to ensure all components are included.

Phillips Screwdriver: You'll need a Phillips screwdriver to secure the camera in place.

Ladder: Depending on the camera's installation height, you may require a ladder to reach the installation spot.

Power Source: The floodlight camera needs to be hardwired to an existing junction box that provides 110 to 120V of power and has proper grounding. If you are replacing an existing light, ensure the junction box is suitable. If not, consult a licensed electrician to install the appropriate box, following local building codes.

Wi-Fi Network: The floodlight camera requires a 2.4GHz wireless network connection with WPA/WPA2 security standard.

Smartphone or Tablet: You'll need a smartphone or tablet to download and install the camera's companion app for setup and control.

Installation your floodlight camera

Selecting the right installation location is crucial. Here are some tips:

Install the camera in a grounded junction box approximately 10 feet above the ground, with a motion detection range of up to 30 feet.

Common uses include home security and capturing wildlife activity.

Ensure an unobstructed 130° field of view for your camera, with a motion detection area spanning 270°.

Avoid installing in direct sunlight, near high-traffic areas, or amid dense brush.

If you choose a ceiling location, you can easily flip the camera image after setup is complete.

Also read, Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 Review

Getting Started

Safety should always come first. If you lack an appropriate junction box, consult a licensed electrician to install one and ensure compliance with local regulations. Before starting, disconnect power to the junction box using the fuse or circuit breaker.

To guide you through the setup process, you can refer to a tutorial video or the Quick Start Guide provided with the camera.

Understanding the Status Light

The status light on your Floodlight Camera conveys important information during setup:

Red (Solid): Powered on and initiating setup

Red (Flashing): Ready to connect

Red and Blue (Flashing): Connecting to Wi-Fi

Blue (Flashing): Connected and setup complete

Blue (Solid): Connected and operational

The Roku Smart Home mobile app is your key to configuring and controlling your Roku home monitoring system, including cameras, video doorbells, plugs, bulbs, and light strips. Download the app for iOS and Android from the respective app stores.

Find the  Best GoPro Camera for 2023

Connect Floodlight Camera

Ensure your smartphone or tablet is connected to your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network. Launch the smart home app and either create a new Roku account or sign in with your existing credentials. Follow these steps to connect your camera:

Tap the "+" sign to add a device in the Roku Smart Home mobile app's navigation bar and select "Add device."

Choose "Cameras & doorbells" and then "Floodlight Camera."

Follow the in-app instructions to install and mount your floodlight.

Once powered, the camera will remain active for 30 seconds and start flashing red.

Lift the camera from the motion sensor and press the SETUP button. Listen for "Ready to connect," then proceed.

Connect to your 2.4GHz wireless network, enter your password, and scan the QR code.

After hearing "Setup completed," the status light turns solid blue, indicating your camera is ready to use. Name your floodlight camera and press Finish.

With a Wi-Fi connection, your camera can record videos to the cloud with a Roku Smart Home Subscription, offering instant recordings on motion and sound detection, as well as intelligent person, pet, and object detection.

Using Your Floodlight Camera

Once the setup is complete, the status light serves as a visual indicator:

Blue (Solid): Connected and operational

Red (Solid): Viewing live stream or recording in progress

Red (Quickly Flashing): Siren in use

Should you need to adjust the brightness of your floodlight, simply open the smart home app and follow these steps:

Select your blink floodlight camera from the Home screen.

Tap on "Settings" in the top corner of the Roku Smart Home mobile app.

Under "Accessories," choose "Floodlight."

Adjust the brightness using the slider.

By following these steps, you can successfully set up and use your floodlight camera to enhance your home security and keep an eye on your property. Enjoy the added peace of mind that comes with increased visibility and surveillance capabilities.

[newmaniawe]

How You Can Fix Roku Blinking White Light

Streaming devices have become an essential part of our entertainment setup and Roku offers a range of streaming devices to enhance our TV viewing experience.  Roku devices may occasionally encounter issues. One common problem that users may come across is the Roku blinking white light issue.

Causes For Blinking White Light

The Roku streaming stick and other Roku streaming players (Roku Express, Roku Express 4K, Roku Streaming Stick 4K, Roku Ultra, and Roku Streambar) all use their flashing white lights to indicate a range of problems. A white blinking light points to the following issues: Connectivity issue with your home WiFi Broken or Loose HDMI cable. Hardware issues in your device Outdated software Issues in Power cord/ Power switch box SAMSUNG 65-Inch Crystal 4K 3 HDMI Ports, Motion Xcelerator

How To Fix Roku Blinking White Light

Reboot Your Roku To begin, make sure you are on the Home screen of your Roku device. Hold the remote control in your hand, and let's get started. Follow these steps carefully: Press the up button on your remote control. This will navigate you to the setting options. Once you have reached the setting options, press the right button on your remote control to enter the settings menu. Within the settings menu, press the up button again to access the System option.

Moving forward, press the right button to navigate to the menu. Now, press the down button repeatedly until you find the "System Restart" option. Once you have highlighted the "Restart" option, press the OK button on your remote control.

By following these simple steps, your Roku device will initiate the restart process. Allow the device a few moments to complete the restart. Recommended: Can you use Amazon Firestick on Roku TV Check All Your Cords and Cables Inspect your Roku device and locate the HDMI cable ports. Remove the HDMI cable and examine if there is an extension attached, as these extensions often malfunction. Issues with the HDMI cables may cause problems with Toshiba TV. Replace the extension or try connecting the device directly to the TV. Additionally, I consider replacing the HDMI cable with a new one, as they can break internally even without physical movement. Make sure that there are no loose cable connections. We also use a streaming device that gets loose over time. So, check the connection points of these cables as well. I also suggest you connect the HDMI cable to a different HDMI port on the back of your TV.

Check Network Settings Firstly, check if the WIFI is turned on. To do this, go to the settings option on your TV remote and click on the last option, which is the ‘settings’ option. After that, go to the ‘network’ option and then to the ‘WIFI connection.’ If the connection is not available, then you will see a message indicating the issue. After analyzing the issue, I found that this is not just a setting problem, but it is a technical problem with the WIFI chip. Restart Wifi Router You must restart your network router and check that there is no problem with your router. Because sometimes there may arise problems with your router and your TV is working fine. First, turn off your router from the power socket. Now, wait for a few seconds before you plug back your router. Now, you can restart your network router. Check if your LG TV is able to recognize Wifi connection.

Interference in WiFi Connection Sometimes, there is interference from the outside environment which creates issues in the performance of the wireless signals. You must need to check the objects causing the issue. Your Roku TV or device may get distracted by Infrared Interference which is used by other devices like Televisions, Microwave Ovens, and Radios. This is not a usual problem but you may encounter it if you don’t properly place these kinds of devices. Recommended: Can You Use Roku And Firestick On Same TV Adjust Display Resolution of Your Roku Accessing the Settings Menu First, navigate to the left side of your Roku remote and press the left arrow button. This action will open a menu with various options. Scroll all the way down until you reach the "Settings" option. Select it by pressing the OK button on your remote. Adjusting the Display Type Once you're in the Settings menu, continue scrolling down until you locate the "Display Type" setting. Press OK to access this option. Automatic Resolution Detection By default, the Roku is set to "Auto" in terms of resolution detection. This means that it will automatically detect the best resolution based on your TV's capabilities. Sometimes, Roku already detects correct resolution according to my experience, you can proceed to Step 4. However, if you believe that the detected resolution is incorrect, follow the next step to manually change it. Manually Changing the Resolution Suppose you want to manually adjust the resolution to ensure optimal performance. Select the desired resolution from the available options. For instance, if your TV supports full 4K HDR at 60 frames per second, choose "Full 4K HDR 60." After selecting the desired resolution, Roku will verify if it matches your TV's capabilities. If it does, you're all set. However, if the chosen resolution exceeds what your TV can handle, an "X" symbol will appear. In this case, proceed to Step 5 to force the output. Forcing the Output Resolution If the chosen resolution exceeds your TV's capabilities but you believe it can handle higher specifications, you can force the output resolution. Simply select the option to force the resolution and press OK. This will override the automatic detection and apply your preferred resolution settings. Reverting to Automatic Mode If at any point you're not satisfied with the changes you've made, you can easily revert to the automatic resolution detection. Access the Settings menu again and scroll down to "Display Type." Select this option and set it back to "Auto." Confirm your selection and your Roku will return to automatically detecting the optimal resolution. Factory Reset Your Roku - Navigate to the Settings menu on your Roku TV. Locate the settings icon and select it to proceed. - Scroll down and find the "System" option and access the Advanced System Settings. - Look for the "Factory Reset" setting and click on it. - Now, you will be presented with two choices: resetting audio and picture settings or resetting everything. To completely restore your Roku TV to its original factory state, choose the "Reset Everything" option. - To ensure that you genuinely want to reset your Roku TV, a confirmation code is required. The code for this specific reset is 3262. Type in the code using your remote control or TV interface. - Proceed by selecting "OK" A final confirmation message will appear on the screen, informing you about the consequences of the factory reset. - Select "Yes" to confirm. Your TV will then restart, initiating the factory reset procedure. During this process, all accounts, settings, and installed apps will be erased. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjTm_hOn9RI Enjoy Reading Too: How to Watch Roku Channel on LG Smart TV TCL Roku TV Screen Mirroring Not Working Contact Roku Support If you require direct assistance from Roku Support, you can reach out to them via phone or email. On the Roku website, you'll find the official contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses specific to your region. About Author Read the full article

[smarttvguides18]

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[lynzine]

Oops

“Oh spirits.” Sokka and Katara exchanged horrified glances before looking back at the toddler. 

“We need to call Zuko.” Sokka said, just on the edge of hysterical. 

“He’s going to kill us.” Toph stated flatly. 

“Maybe he won’t. He might like her better this way.” Katara was unconvincingly hopeful. “Right, Aang?” Aang was staring at the toddler with a soft but foreign expression on his face. “Aang?

Aang lunged forward and, in a blinding flash of light, was replaced with a beaming old man, scooping up the toddler who shrieked in joyful excitement. 

“Hello Azula.” He smiled down at the giggling child. “I’m your grandpa, Roku.” 

*

Slightly dedicated to @newbieineverything who cheered me up yesterday and reminded me of this challenge I used to give myself where I would see what I could fit on to one smaller than normal sheet of paper (which is what I did here). 

[s0nia246]

-------Y/N's Room----

Y/N-" H-Hey!? Wait..."

You turned around in confusion, realizing you weren't in the blank void with Miku anymore. The room you magical teleported to was... your room? It look like your room but nicer.

This large, rectangular bedroom has matching wooden and metal furniture.  The floor is carpeted and the walls are painted with a paneled dado.  Light is provided by wall lamps, table lamps, and the open window. The room is done in soft colors and overall has a clean look.  Among the first things one notices walking in all the merchandise of you hanging through your bedroom walls.

You wanted to look around your home more but had to figure out what Miku said was true or not. Did you really just get is isekai. Right as you were about to leave your bedroom your eyes landed at a full body mirror.

Your question had just been answered. You were perfectly translated in the Project Sekai art style. But there was one thing that shocked you even more was what you were wearing?

Y/N-"W-hat?"

This is an outfit you thought you would ever see yourself in. Something you aesthetically like but never thought would work for your body type. Yet here you are, admiring yourself.

A few minutes flew by before finally escaped your own trance. You left your bedroom and headed out the front door. What you noticed first was you were in a empty hallway. The hall doors were yours and an elevator door.

------Hallway-----

You wanted to investage more but now not the time. You had to go outside. You quickly walk up the elevator and press the down button. The elevator doors open and you head in. You press the 1️⃣ on the panel. The doors close as a ding sound comes from the speaker. You look down at your phone and just started researching.

Turns out you a really popular solo idol. Like top number 1. You also a vocaloid idol. Which is even weirder then being the top idol.

----Scramble Crossing------

???-"Ouch!"

You looked up from your phone and realized that you had bumped into someone.

???-" Excuse me...Y/N?"

Y/N- (Wait, why do I understand Japanese?.. Is that...)

Before you could finish you thought and person in front of you unexpectedly hugged you arm.

Saki-"Your finally here!"

Tenma Saki. Was. Hugging you. 

"Yeah. I'm here...um Tenma?

Passerby#1- "Is that Y/L/N?

Passerby#2 - "Is it? We should get a closer look?"

Y/N-(Oh shot. A crowd is forming around us.)

Y/N-"T-Tenma a...-"

Saki- "Oh! Were going to be late."

Before you had time to respond ,Saki grabs your hand and starts dragging you along to who knows where.

------Miyamasuzaka Girls Academy----

Y/N-"Tenma I don't think it's a good idea for me to be on school grounds."

Saki- "It's fine Y/L/N. Where no going to be here for long."

Y/N- (Everyone is staring us.)

Saki takes you to area to where no one can see you two. She then hands you a plastic bag full of goodies to hold, while pulling out her phone from out of her pocket.

Saki-"Ready!

That familiar flash flashes your eyes...again

-----Classroom Sekai-----

???‐"Your late

Saki-"Sorry it took me so long. I bumped into someone on my way here."

Saki grabbed back onto your arm and rubbed her cheek against you arm

???- Saki we are the only ones who...who..."

Y/N-(Oh no. Not this again.)

???-"What wrong Ichika?"

The three girls that were now staring at you were.

Hoshino Ichika, Mochizuki Honami and Hinomori Shiho. It was really awkward.

Y/N- (...I should say something but socializing is hard.)

Miku- How's practice going? Oh? Hello V/S/N?

Y/N-(What is she...)

You look down at your clothing. Let's talk about a different topic for now.

Y/N-"...W-What were you guys practicing today."

Saki-"We were just going though some old songs we've done before."

Y/N- "That's cool. I'm just going to w-watch. Yeah watch. Do mind me aha~.

You quickly move over to the chair near the window. After a minute or so the group returns to whatever they had been doing before you enter. They soon start play Roku-chou Nen to Ichiya Monogatari.

Y/N- (This so cool. Their really talented... Why do I want join in for some reason? I don't anything about music. I sure listen to music but criticating is not in my league...but...)

Saki-" I still can't get this part."

Y/N-"Um Tenma...Can I help you with it."

Saki-"Really!~ Oh thank you V/S/N."

You headed over to Saki and looked down in front of Saki's synthesizer.

Y/N-"Ah let's see...what that?"

Are you crazy or did your eyes just play trick on you. What you see is gameplay. Yep your crazy XD. You put your fingers on the synthesizer and start playing.

Y/N- "Try doing it like this instead."

Saki-"Wow V/S/N. Your so talented. I'll try it this way."

You nodded and head over to Shiho.

Y/N- I know you got it Hinomori but can I show you a easy way to do that chord.

Again your eyes saw it. This time it was similar to Guitar Hero. Shiho hands you over her bass. You then play the part before handing her back her bass.

Saki-"I never thought of playing it like that before.  Thanks V/S/N."

Shiho smiled before returning to playing. You then headed over Honami.

Y/N- "Can I"

Honami-"Of course. I m-mean sure."

Y/N- (Now this is?...Taiko no Tatsujin. I think that what's it called.)

Honami gets up and allows us you to play. You again played and finish teaching her.

Honami- Thank you V/S/N.

Y/N- (What's going own. Why do I know all this stuff. )

Finally you went over Ichika.

Y/N-"Can I give you a recommendation on your singing.  I know struggle with this so how about..."

Y/N- (Is that...karaoke. Wait I don't know how to sing.)

You took a deep breath before you started singing.

Y/N-(~~~🎶~~~~~~🎶~~~)

Y/N-(WHAT WAS...NO WAY)

Y/N- "D-Do you get it?

Ichika nodded.

Ichika-"Yes V/S/N.  Your voice is so beautiful.

You cheeks blushed furiously.

Y/N-" Really? Thank I guess."

Saki-"You should sing with us V/S/N."

Y/N-(I don't think that's a good idea but I need to understand this "ability" more.)

Y/N- "I didn't want to interrupt your practice but sure. Why not."

The room was filled with gasps and giggles.

........

Shiho-" Are you going to count us in Honami"

Honami-"O-Oh right. Sorry."

-----------After Practice---------

Y/N-(I've changed back to normal.)

Saki-"Y/N! Can you sign this."

Saki hands you CD case. With you own it.

Y/N-(Why do I look so cool. This is weird? )

Y/N- "Sure I just need a"

Saki hands you a silver metallic marker. You take a breath before signing Saki's case.

They all wave you goodbye. Telling you that they had fun today and they wanted to hang out with you again.  I mean you had fun too despite the situation your currently in.

-------Y/N's Room----

Y/N-"I know you hear me Miku."

Miku-"Yes Y/N. How may I help you? "

Y/N-"You know what wrong. How do I get back home?"

Miku-"You are home Y/N. I don't understand? "

Y/N-" I'm talking were I actually came from."

Miku-"Oh! Well that might be a problem but why would you want to go home. You had some much fun."

Y/N- That isn't the point Miku and what do you mean that "might be a problem"?"

Miku laughed nervously.

Miku-"Well you can't leave until you unlock your Sekai.  Currently it's locked out. No one can get in there. It kinda similar to other sekai but your are different as you can tell.. The only way to unlock is help others with their dreams."

Y/N-"Really? That sounds hard but if the only way to get home then I guess I have too."

Miku-" Don't worry Y/N I'll help."

Y/N-" Yeah I guess. Thank you Miku. Sorry but earlier.

Miku-" It's alright Y/N. Goodnight."

Y/N-"Night."

Miku disappeared from your phone and you fell onto your bed...Do you eat anything today? 

------------------------

Finally I finished. The took me a full day to write so sorry if their errors. I don't know what to do for part 3 so give me any ideas or suggestions you might have. Also I might make this into the visual novel style if I knew how. I found the sprites from the game but idk.

[lightdancer1]

Fourth part of the draft scene:

The next morning she bearded Uncle in his lair holding a set of scrolls.

"These were written in your hand," she said, as she handed them to him. His face turned very pale as he saw them and he took them.

"How much did you know about what we'd see in the Temple?"

Iroh shook his head.

"Less than you'd think. In my time in the Spirit World I saw......things," he said, and did not specify.

"Flashes of that massacre were among them. I did not know what I saw, or more precisely I did not want to know what it was that I saw in those sights."

He shook his head.

"And these...." as he held them in his hands.

"You saw the Siege. I said that I introduced new kinds of horrors there, but that was as a result of a career that brought them. It is not unprecedented to scorch Earth and to pursue categories to bring down one's enemy's armies in a war. I took them to new levels. These...." and he held them up again, "are the truth of what that means."

His grin was a bit ghastly for a moment.

"One of those aphorisms of mine that has caught on was when I said that war means fighting and fighting means killing. Seldom is the actual deed truly noble, even if the motivations for it might be."

Iroh put the scrolls aside.

"In the eyes of the Earth Kingdom they are fighting for their homes against an army of foreign marauders who wish to destroy them and remake their people in our image and in our likeness. A bid as grand as the semi-legendary Genghis Khan of the Southern Lands. You saw in the Siege that they were as happy to kill in an inglorious fashion as we are. Their cause, in some ways, might have the simplicity that we truly did attack them to conquer them and not the other way around."

Iroh shrugged lightly.

"Would that make it better for someone beaten to death with those stone bullets or flattened by a stone?"

Their faces fell to the same degree and a haunted memory crossed their eyes.

"I don't think so. If there are surviving archives from Marshal Fong and General Sung and the other remnants of the Earth Kingdom Army, they will have reports as detailed as these of atrocities. There's a supposed band of young soldiers, so-called Freedom Fighters in the vicinity of Gaipan. They flooded the city for a local advantage."

He looked her in the eyes, unafraid and unashamed as he continued.

"One does not set out to conquer a world gently, or with good intentions. Nor to bring light to it. We have always known that, even if we left it to ourselves to decide that. We have always known it," his voice became softer and haunted.

"But I never let myself know, or question, if the other nations truly would have been outraged over the War of Fire and Air as they said they were. It was easy to see it as envy, as hate. As wishing they could have demonstrated the power we did then."

"So did I fully know that truth," he said, as he looked at his hands....."No, I did not. I did not want to know, and so I did not. I told myself we were in the right because the Fire Nation is always right, and acted on that belief for the entirety of my life."

His nose wrinkled.

"But after seeing all of that and knowing that I did see truth in those glimpses and in that talk with Avatar Roku, I cannot continue to deny it."

He sighed and shifted.

"I wish I had better answers for you, niece. I truly do. But there sometimes are none. The perpetrators of those deeds are dead. Grandfather did not die cleanly from the stroke he suffered after King Hakoda in the South destroyed his armies in the First Battle of Inuk. So he, at least, suffered something in response for his actions."

He grimaced.

"We have seen what we were."

Then he sighed.

"We know that all too well."

-------

Azula folded her arms in front of her chest.

"Do you still want me to face and kill my brother?"

Her tone went from soft and dangerous to cold as the domains of the two polar tribes.

"That too is a part of the tradition that led to that boneyard."

Iroh froze then, the question a blunt one and a reminder that Azula was no fool. She was much smarter than he was. Than anyone else in the family was. Of course she'd seen where he was going with things even if he'd yet to have stated it so directly.

[the-golden-ghost]

Top 10 avatar episodes? (ATLA or LOK)

I've never seen LOK so... A:TLA it is!

The Siege of the North: (technically this is a two-part episode but shh) anyway WHAT CAN I SAY ABOUT THE SIEGE OF THE NORTH?! Siege of the North is flawless. Amazing Showstopping Impeccable. The scene where ash starts raining from the sky, changing the tone of the scene from peace to tension? The glimpse of the rows upon rows of Fire Nation ships and the sinking dread it brings? The waterbenders in action? The part where Arnook is going “some of these faces will disappear from our tribe for good” and it flashes to Han, Yue, and Pakku, all of whom did indeed leave but for different reasons? The part where Zhao traps the Moon Spirit and the WHOLE WORLD goes red? And then gray after he kills it!??! And the only color left in the world is the glow from the fire and YUE’S EYES!? Koh? Iroh’s confirmation that Zuko is son in all but technicality? Yue’s sacrifice? There is just SO much good stuff in this episode and I’m not even listing all of it I’m just listing what I can remember. Peak season finale 10/10. Outstanding.

The Tales of Ba Sing Se: Okay it’s pretty obvious why I like this one and the answer is “because it owns, duh” but beyond that it’s just a nice episode. It’s not big, and intense, but there’s plenty of Big Intense Episodes. This one’s just everyone going about their lives and we get a lot of quiet reminders that while these are the Saviors of the World they’re also just people (and a lemur) with their own problems and desires and wants. It’s just kind of nice to have a slice of life episode that doesn’t... feel like just an odd shoehorned plot (like some of the season 1 filler episodes I could name...) but actually feels like it’s about the characters.

The Deserter: GOD this episode is so pretty. I’m talking about the lighting and art design. Seriously go watch one of the other earlier episodes of s1 and then watch this. The soft filtered lighting with a subtle gold/orange tint to it, hinting at the element we’re covering in this episode? Gorgeous. The foreshadowing is also glorious. Magnificent, even. When I rewatched the show a few months ago I was catching little subtleties that went over my head as a kid. It works beautifully as a self-contained piece and also in tandem with its sister episode, the Firebending Masters. It’s also got the ONLY Zhao vs Aang battle in the entire season. I could go on about it more but I won’t, it’s just a SOLID episode and I think it’s underrated.

The Southern Raiders: Okay I know everyone likes this episode for the part where Katara makes the rain stop and that’s also why I like it. That was one of the most memorable moments of the whole SERIES for me. Beyond that there’s the flashback to Kya’s death which... we’ve known about it. We’ve known about it for the whole series. It’s affected Katara and Sokka deeply and we see it through their actions, but we’ve never really known what happened. Here, we do. And we get to see it from three perspectives, three times over. And then there’s Aang’s and Katara’s conflicting ideas of justice and vengeance and whether violence is ever necessary or justified. It’s just... a good episode.

Sokka’s Master: The Only Sokka Episode (but really why did it take until season 3 to give him one!? He deserves better) Anyway Piandao is the best teacher character in the series bar none so there’s that. For another thing we actually get to see Sokka at his best and realize just how necessary he really is. He sort of gets written off (even IN the show) as pure comic relief or just the One Nonbender Who Hangs Out With All The Cool Guys but here we have a Justice For Sokka episode that goes ‘you know what? Nah’ and points out that he’s a strategic genius who carries the team from behind. AND that he can be a badass, too.

The Runaway: First of all the episode opening with the END of the events was kind of a fun gimmick. I mean it’s not hard to see where it’s going but it was different. Secondly it’s about time we got a Toph episode that isn’t just about her not getting along with her teammates or about being blind. For example, in this one she becomes a career criminal. It’s what she deserves. Also the stuff about them all missing their parents and driving home the fact that this is a group of lost children is surprisingly heartfelt. (I’m not describing it well but I love this episode)

The Blue Spirit: This episode gives us some of our first inklings of Zuko As Good Guy and boy does it deliver. The thing that gets me about this one is the tension of the situation. I remember being a kid and seeing Aang trapped and alone and being like “oh shit” because for the first time, he doesn’t have his friends. Except he had a ~friend all along~. Also the herbalist is an icon.

The Avatar and the Fire Lord: We Love a Flashback Episode and we especially love one that comes with the caveat that “friendships can last more than one lifetime”. We also love to be sappy. We also love to make fun of Roku for not realizing that he was in love with Sozin.

The King of Omashu: Bumi is The Character Of All Time and I think I appreciate him more than any other minor character on the show so jot that down. This episode is so goofy and so much fun but it feels organic and light because we’re still early and we haven’t hit the point yet where the goofy episodes are annoying and out of place (looking at YOU, Nightmares and Daydreams...) also when I was a kid I totally missed the idea that Bumi was testing Aang not to see if he was smart n’ talented but to actually find out if he’d learned any of the other 3 bending episodes. “Don’t you have any surprises for me?” And Bumi’s earthbending having airbending elements that are specific to his bending... because he’s one of the only earthbenders alive who knew and trained with airbenders... I die. I feel similarly to Jeong Jeong’s firebending taking after waterbenders because he’s envied them and giving him a unique style of his own... I LOVE when the show gives minor characters these little details that make them stand out okay I ADORE it

The Blind Bandit: Okay this one’s just a fun episode and the character designs slap. The Final Battle (tm) also slaps. Toph’s bending style? The dinner scene? The reference to Dwayne Johnson? It’s all good and the animation for Earth Rumble XI was off the charts.

[topknotsstuff]

Avatar Rangi au snippet

Minor Rise of Kyoshi spoilers

Tw: Trauma

Just really heavy themes.

"I'm sorry."

Kyoshi leaned down and pressed a soft kiss on the sleeping girl's forehead. She hated having to leave her like this but she needed training. How could she protect the girl who had given her everything? She was a nobody without a family, she was a pickpocket, an orphan on the streets but when she met Rangi and became her bodyguard even if it had only been for money at first she had ended up falling for the avatar. Her Avatar.

"I love you."

She whispered her lips brushing against her warm skin slightly. She pulled away slowly taking in her glowing girl's features in the moonlight. She was truly beautiful. she smiled softly her green eyes shone in the night with unshed tears as she placed her sword in the spot she once laid.

"I hope you don't hate me."

A chuckle bubbled up in her throat but quickly as it tried to come out it turned into a pitiful sob. This hurt far more than when she was left as a child by her parents. This pain gripped her heart and wouldn't let go. Why was she crying? She would see her again yet it hurt so much. She fished a paper from her pocket and rested it in the sheath of the sword making sure it was visible enough to be seen. 

Kyoshi turned on her heels without another word and left out the door closing it softly in hopes not to wake the Avatar. She needed to do this, she wasn't strong enough to protect Rangi if she couldn't bend even a single pebble.

As she passed the Avatars private gardens she paused in her steps. What would Roku think of her for abandoning her duty? What would Her Avatar Sifu's think? it weighed heavily on her heart as she forced herself to turn away from the gardens that held so many fond memories. She had no time for these types of thoughts.

Kyoshi continued her short walk to the stables stopping right outside the large doors. She pushed them open and stepped inside the large space illuminated by moonlight. She passed the many stalls till she stopped at Peng Peng's. The huge bison was fast asleep. 

Kyoshi reached out and ran her hand over the nose of the large creature in an attempt to wake the large bison. 

"Hey, girl."

She spoke softly when the bison opened its eyes letting out a loud groan in greeting.

"Can you take me somewhere? I need to get there. I just need a ride."

She spoke in a tone in hopes to convince the large bison. It was wishful thinking but when Peng peng moved upright she had hope that maybe this would work out.

"Is that a yes?"

When she got a loud groan in response her freckled cheeks tugged up in a slightly crooked smile. 

"Thank you, girl."

She quickly saddled the bison and gently placed all her items and a chest in the saddle. She placed another note off to the side and led peng peng from the stall. She would have to apologize to Kelsang the next time she saw him in person.

Kyoshi climbed onto the Bisons head and looked back one last time as rain began to pour from the sky. Softly she uttered her words being washed away with the rain.

"Goodbye."

she turned back and looked straight ahead keen on getting to her destination without any more distractions.

"Yip Yip!" she snapped the reins and took off into the night sky.

...

A loud flash of thunder wrung through the air. A pair of golden eyes snapped open from the loud sound. Hand's gripped tightly at sheets as the person tangled in covers turned in search of comfort and warmth. But there was nothing?

Rangi sat up and looked down at the empty cold space beside her where Her bodyguard once laid.

A flash of lightning lit up the room and there she saw an object in the space where Kyoshi had once laid. Her blood ran cold as she grabbed the long object. The cold material in her warm calloused hands didn't bring any form of comfort. 

Rangi zoned out for only a moment till a flash of lightning startled her back to reality and she flinched gripping the sword tighter. Tears pricked in her eyes as she looked around franticly in hopes to find something to keep her safe. Her eyes landed on a small piece of parchment sticking from the sheath of the sword and she pulled it out. The curiosity weighed more heavily on her than the fear. she lit a small flame in her palm and brought it near the opened paper silently reading it to herself.

Dear Rangi,

By the time you read this, I will be gone. I'm sorry I have to leave you in such away. I'm leaving to go find my family's old friends, please don't follow me or try and find me. I'm sorry I can't tell you more than this because I don't want you to be involved with this. You're the Avatar and need to stay respectable. Please tell Kelsang I'm sorry for taking peng peng. I'm truly sorry.

Love Kyoshi.

Rangi dropped the paper to the floor with wide eyes. She threw the covers from her body and dashed from the room.

'please, please Kyoshi still be here!'

she yelled to herself as her feet padded against the cold muddy ground. She ran blindly through the pouring rain her red robes getting soaked by the relentless downpour. Her feet kicked up mud causing the ends of her silk red robes to become dirty. Her heart was beating fast as she passed the gardens.

Rangi came crashing to the muddy ground as she tripped over a rock she couldn't see. Without her fire or the moon, she couldn't see anything. She only had lightning to provide her any light.

She slowly pulled herself from the mud and wobbled on her weak legs. Another loud clap of thunder and a flash of lightning sent her back to the ground in fear. She wanted to cry and hide. where was Kyoshi? She covered her face with her muddy hands, her body shook as she took in sharp little inhalations through her nose.

Rangi shook her head and pulled herself from the ground. There was no time to cry. THIS was no time to cry. She scolded herself as she wiped the mud from her face. She was going to chew Kyoshi out for scaring her like this. it would be a punishment of a lifetime that her bodyguard would pay for the rest of her life.

Rangi took off in the same direction again this time more aware of her surroundings. 

She stopped abruptly in her tracks as she reached her destination. She swung open the doors of the stables just as a flash of lightning struck causing her to scurry inside the open space of the room like a frightened mouse.

Rangi rushed past empty stables till she got to Peng Peng's. The bison was gone and Kyoshi was nowhere to be seen.

She slowly dropped to her knees a trail of tears running down her mud-covered face. Everything hurt. Her heart hurt, her eyes hurt, her legs hurt, she was feeling a type of pain that ripped through her soul.

"I'm sorry!"

She cried out into the night her shout being tuned out by the loud noise of thunder. The words reverberated in her head. The loud strikes of thunder caused her ears to ring as she curled in on herself. She took in a shaky breath as she laid herself against the cold hard ground. Her Pain-filled golden eyes flicked up and through watery vision, she saw another note.

With shaky hands, she took ahold of the paper and slowly unfolded it. She could only make out the words 'Dear Kelsang,' She dropped the note to the floor and turned onto her back staring up at the ceiling of the stable. She took in a deep breath and opened her mouth. A scream of pure anguish ripped from her throat accompanied by a stream of hot glowing fire. The fire lit the room but even then her screams were drowned out by the cracking of lightning and the roar of thunder.

Rangi turned onto her side and curled into herself once again and cried till she could no longer keep her eyes open.

Her sifus found her the next day a mess, dirtied and broken. 

Avatar Rangi that day lost her Bodyguard.

[evienyx]

You answered that one question about the Earth Kingdom kid Lee and it got me thinking... You know that one line where the kid is like 'When my dad goes... Will you stay?' What about an AU where, instead of saying no, Zuko says 'Yes.'

Gansu and Sela’s footsteps faded away as Lee tugged on his sleeve. Zuko met the boy’s eyes as he asked, “When my dad goes... Will you stay?”

Zuko blinked. Thoughts roared through his head, images of his mother, and his sister, and his father. He thought of a wanted poster he’d seen when he and Uncle had taken a risk passing through a Fire Nation outpost, the words proclaiming he was wanted dead or alive. He thought of Azula, sent by his father to being him home as a prisoner. He thought of his mother, her loving words, and the day she disappeared because his dad was going to kill him. He thought of the Avatar, looking down at him with shining eyes, asking if they could have been friends. He thought of Uncle Iroh, out there somewhere, alone and yet, surely, still wishing the best for him.

Zuko thought about about how, for the first time in a long time, he truly had no one left, and nowhere to go.

So, instead of moving on, he looked down at the young boy’s shining eyes, so much like the Avatar’s own when he asked that question all those months ago, and said, “Yes.”

- - -

“I’ll get you some food for the road,” Sela said the moment Zuko entered the house. She was wrapping food up already, for her husband, he guessed. “I assume you’ll be leaving around when Gansu does?”

“Uh, actually, I...” Zuko hesitated for a moment. Was he being presumptuous and just assuming they’d still want him around? “I was wondering if I could... stay here, a while longer? Help... Help around the farm, or something?”

Sela’s hands stopped moving and she turned to look at him, her eyes widening a bit. “What?”

“If... If that’s fine?”

She stared at him for a moment, her hands slowly beginning to move again as she said, “We don’t have any extra money to pay you with. All I could give is a place to sleep and something to eat.”

“That’s fine,” Zuko said, his heart pounding in his chest. “I don’t have anywhere else to go.”

Sela’s eyes moved to the bedroom where Gansu was packing up his things, and then out the window where Lee was out in the sunflower field, whacking at a bug flying around his head. Her gaze moved back to Zuko and she cracked a smile, her face tired as she said, “We’d love to have you.”

- - -

Gansu was gone, and Gow was coming down the path to the house. The pigs squealed at him as he and his men came toward them.

Zuko met Gow’s gaze as the men got closer and was reminded of another man who cared only for himself and his own glory, who fought for himself and himself alone until the Ocean Spirit dragged him into oblivion.

Zuko’s swords rested at his side, but he didn’t make to grab them, yet. 

“Seems we caught you on your way out, stranger,” Gow said. His smile was akin to that of Zhao when he knew he got the one-up on Zuko. 

Zuko’s lips felt dry as he shook his head. “Actually, I think I’m gonna stick around for a while.”

Gow’s smile fell into more of a sneer. “Shame. Thought you were smarter than that, stranger. Seems not.”

Zuko’s hand slowly moved up to rest on the hilt of his swords. “Why are you here?”

Gow glanced back at the door to the house, where Sela and Lee stood, watching. “The army’s in need of food. We’re going around to... collect, from all the wonderful families in town. We know how much they all support our troops and are eager to show their appreciation.” 

Sela was out of the house in a moment, carrying two bags of feed. Her eyes were even more tired than they had been when Gansu had set off. She hands the bags to Gow, who looks satisfied, though his eyes flash when they meet Zuko’s again. Zuko almost starts forward, but Sela places her hand on his shoulder and shakes her head, and instead Zuko stands there, watching, until the Gow and his men are long gone.

- - -

It’s during dinner the first night after Gansu’s left that Sela asks him his name.

“If you’re going to be staying here, that might be a bit of valuable information,” she said as she spooned more rice into his bowl/

Zuko freezes for a moment. He glances up at Sela, and then at Lee.

“My... My name’s... Well, my name is Li.” They both stare for a moment and he quickly adds, “Li with an ‘i’.”

There’s a beat of silence, and then Sela snorts and Lee throws his hands in the air and rounds on his mother, exclaiming, “Why did you have to name me the same thing that everyone else is named?!?”

Zuko doesn’t realize he’s smiling until after it’s already happening.

“So, what should we call you, then?” Sela asked.

Zuko thought of the mask sitting hidden deep in his bag and replied, “Uh, I’ve been called Blue, before.” At the questioning eyes, he shrugged and said, “It’s a long story.”

“All right, then,” Sela said, nodding. A soft smile graced her lips as she bowed her head in a formal greeting. “Nice to meet you, Li. May I call you Blue?”

Zuko returned the greeting. “Nice to meet you, too, Sela. You may.”

Her smile widened a bit more. She told him to eat, and he did.

- - -

The soldiers come every day.

Every day, Zuko does his very best to stop them from taking more.

Sometimes, it’s not enough.

And yet, sometimes, it is.

(Every time Gow approaches and sees Zuko standing there, again, he seems a bit more on edge than the time before.)

- - -

It was the eleventh night, when he’s laying in the barn, staring up at the ceiling and trying to go to sleep, when the realization hit him.

Father didn’t care about him.

Father didn’t love him,

Father didn’t even want him.

Zuko had been banished over three years ago, and the Avatar hadn’t returned until late last autumn. No one had known that the Avatar would come back. And yet that had been the only way Zuko would have been able to go home.

Agni, if he had been captured for good at Avatar Roku’s temple on the solstice, he would be dead now.

He was banished.

“He didn’t want me,” Zuko murmured to himself. “Oh, Agni, Dad doesn’t want me.”

He sat there for a moment, and then he started sobbing.

Sela found him about an hour later, pressed against the back wall, trembling, tears still streaming down his face. Agni, Dad didn’t want him. He never had. He had never loved Zuko. Burns dotting his body (and one marring his face) proved it.

“Blue. Blue, it’s all right.”

Zuko shook his head. “It’s not, it’s not.” She didn’t get it, she didn’t get it. She didn’t understand, and she couldn’t, because if she did, then that was it. Nowhere left for Zuko to go. End of story.

(He hadn’t been in one place for this long since before he was banished.)

“Could you tell me what’s wrong?”

The words escaped him before he could stop them. “He doesn’t want me. He never did. He doesn’t love me, he doesn’t care, he doesn’t want me.”

“Who?”

“My father.”

She’s quiet for a moment, and Zuko’s not looking at her. He’s simply trying to breathe and to stop crying but he can’t, he can’t, he can’t-

“Why do you think he doesn’t want you?”

Zuko let out a wet laugh and shook his head. “He knows me. He doesn’t want me.” He paused. “You wouldn’t, either, if you knew.”

“Why?” 

He didn’t respond.

Sela stepped forward and knelt in front of him. “Blue, please, talk to me. How do you know that neither your father nor I would want you?”

“I know that he doesn’t want me. He’s made that pretty clear.”

“What do you mean?”

Zuko felt a surge of emotion run through him as he looked up and met Sela’s sad, tired eyes. He yanked up the sleeve covering one of his arms. “I know he doesn’t want me, because he gave me these.” Zuko waved at the small burn scars visible across his skin, from training gone wrong, and, more, from discipline from Father. These ones were light, fading already. “And he gave me this.” He gestured at his scar, and Sela’s face scrunched up, her eyebrows furrowing as she thought deeply.

“What... What do you mean he gave you those?”

He supposed that she was going to figure it out already anyway, so he reached a hand out, folded down all fingers but one, and then, with blood rushing past his ears and his heart pounding in his chest, lit a single finger on fire.

Her reaction was instantaneous. She jumped back from him like she was the one who had been burned, her eyes wide and fiery, even after Zuko let the flame fall away. Her gaze moved from him to the house, as if she was wondering if she could get to her son faster than Zuko could burn down the farm.

“I told you,” he said. His voice must have been more exhausted than he thought, because something in her eyes softened just a bit. Still, she remained silent.

Zuko stood up, and Sela tensed, her shoulders rising just a bit. He stared at his feet for a moment before saying, “I’m going to go grab Lychee. I’ll be gone in five minutes, I promise.” There was a beat of silence, and then he added, because he felt obligated to, “I’m sorry.”

Zuko took a few steps to grab his swords. Just as he was leaning down to grab the straps, he froze as two arms suddenly wrapped around him.

When he was released, he turned around, and Sela looked up at him and cupped his good cheek and asked, “Your father did that to you?”

Zuko’s throat felt tight, and he nodded rather than speaking.

Her eyes were so tired, and sad, as she whispered brokenly, “They won’t even spare their own children...”

Zuko didn’t leave that night. Instead, Sela dragged him inside and had him sleep in the recently emptied attic.

There was a small hole in the roof, and through it he could count the stars.

- - -

The next day, Lee didn’t speak to him. Just glared.

Then, the morning after, he did.

The boy’s voice was tight as he said, “So. My mom said you’re a firebender.”

Zuko’s throat felt tight again and his mouth was dry and his heart was pounding  as he nodded.

“She also said your dad was the one who burned your face.”

Zuko paused, and then nodded again.

Lee made an odd face. Then, he said, “The Fire Nation sucks.”

Zuko slowly shook his head. “Not all of it.”

A beat. “No. Not all of it.”

Lee sounded years older than he was, and it made Zuko hurt inside to think about another child forced to grow up too soon.

- - -

It was the fourteenth morning when Sela visited him as he fed the pigs (just as Gansu had shown him, before the man had left).

“What’s your name?” She asked. 

He paused, and then said, “I told you. It’s Li, with an ‘i’.’”

“No, it’s not. I know it’s not.” She took a step forward. “Please,” she said, her voice tired. “Don’t lie.”

“...It’s Zuko.”

“...That’s the name of the prince.”

“...I know.”

She didn’t say anything else. He didn’t know if she thought he was the prince, or if she thought he was simply named the same thing.

He didn’t deign to say anything more, and she didn’t deign to ask.

- - -

It was the seventeenth day when everything went really wrong, really fast.

Zuko was in town with both Sela and Lee. The boy was slowly warming up to him again, which made Zuko happy in a way he couldn’t quite describe.

Zuko watched Lee play with two other children while Sela traded some of the farm’s grain from the last harvest for a variety of medicinal herbs. Zuko was tasked with selling the sunflowers they had picked to the merchant that came by every few weeks. The flowers would be made into dye, and Lee was excited about the extra coin they would have. Sela had promised him a nice dinner.

“Looks like a storm’s coming in,” said a woman to her husband. “We need to make sure to bring the cows in before it hits.”

The merchant handed Zuko the coin for the flowers. Zuko pocketed the money before turning and scanning the sky. Sure enough, dark clouds gathered to the west. 

“Gonna be a big one,” said an older man across the square. “Weird to see something that big outside of monsoon season. Spirits, it’s weird to see something that big during monsoon season this close to the desert.”

Zuko furrowed his eyebrows. The way the clouds rolled, the color, it all seemed... wrong. He moved toward an alley between two buildings and passed out of the square. Zuko’s eyes trailed the clouds. Why did it feel like he recognized the way the clouds looked?

It hit him like a sack of bricks.

It was because he did recognize the way the clouds looked.

Because those weren’t clouds.

That was a blanket of smog.

Zuko didn’t know why the Fire Nation was moving that many machines into the Earth Kingdom right now, but he didn’t have the time to wonder. He guessed that they were aiming to capture another large piece of land in one swoop, and, based on how close that ‘storm’ was, he guessed that this village would be in the blast zone.

Zuko ran back into the town square and, without even thinking much, yelled, “That’s not a storm! It’s smog. The Fire Nation is on its way!”

Silence. Gow and his men moved forward.

“Stirring up a panic is not a good look on you, stranger,” Gow said, even though Zuko had been here for three weeks now.

Gow took a step. Then, a fireball shot out from nowhere and struck him in the face. Another hit him in the chest. Gow flew back with a pained cry, and didn’t get back up.

Someone screamed, and then panic.

It was hot, and there was fire, and suddenly Zuko had scooped Lee into his arms and had Sela’s hand in his and was running.

Zuko’s bag was packed already when they made it back to the farm. Sela told her son to grab clothes and food and stuff it in a bag and then get to the barn and untie the one remaining family ostrich horse. Zuko grabbed up his bag, stuffed feed into the remaining space, secured his sword, and went to grab Lychee from the barn.

“Where are we going?” Lee asked five minutes later when Zuko was helping him onto the mount, Sela securing the boy in front of her.

Zuko hopped onto Lychee and the horses started moving as the pigs started squealing, as if someone was coming.

A plume of smoke rose behind them as Sela handed a map to her son to hold. She glanced down at it, then at Zuko, and then said, “We’re going to Ba Sing Se.”

The sky was dark with smoke and Zuko rode away from the town he had entered as a single traveler after three weeks of labor.

Now, his muscles ached, and his heart pounded, and he wasn’t alone anymore.