#sun x toph

[beifong-brainrot]

who's sun?? that one kid who might be suyins father

Sun is a lavabender who appears in the short comic "Toph Beifong's Metalbending Academy", which is about Toph dealing with burnout and boredom due to the tedium of the routine in her metalbending academy.

She is eventually intrigued when she senses lavabending through seismic sense, and I find it really cool how it was visually signified in the comic.

Sun seemed to have grown up on the streets, and participated in underground fighting to keep himself and several friends of his alive. He seems to have developed lavabending very early, and he doesn't have full control of it yet.

Eventually Toph is able to convince him to join her academy, in hopes that she can help him get his lavabending under control.

I think he's pretty cool. It's interesting to see more lavabenders outside of tlok. And his yellow eyes imply that he may be of mixed Fire Nation and Earth Kingdom descent. He parallels Bolin, my special boy lavabender too, which I find very interesting.

I like that Toph immediately is intrigued by him and is ripped from her stagnation by him, it's cute. And I think it would paralel Suyin's arrest making Toph realise that she actually hates being a cop.

Also at one point she just yoinks him and I find that very humorous.

It's giving "That one. I want that one."

And I won't lie, I think a big reason I first started enjoying the idea of Sun as Suyin's dad is probably that it would be an absolutely amazing parallel to weilin and that would be so therapeutic and wonderful for my soul.

If I were to look at this objectively, I'd definitely theorise that Satoru is the likelier fit for Suyin's father. Since he has the same hair as her and is more obviously set up as a love interest for Toph.

But lowkey, that means that Toph, Suyin and Kuvira all fell for glasses wearing, nonbender engineer men and while that's really really funny it's also just a teensy weensy bit boring. We need at least one generational gap in the family kink.

Also I can't see Satoru as a distant father so if he wasn't in Suyin's life something awful happened to him and I don't want that for him, he's a cinnamon roll.

Honestly I hope they never tell us who Suyin's dad is and never elaborate on Kanto it would be funny.

Also here, have a funky edit I made months ago lol.

[melonbandit]

⚘ suntoph moodboard ⚘

[ssunphire]

my fav atla ships as ship dynamics pt. 1 ‼️

art credits: dawningrot on tiktok

[zzukowo]

Zuko’s little secret <3 (5th October)

Zuko x Reader

Prompt! Gaang gets curious about where zuko sneaks off to every night

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a golden hue across the icy expanse of the Northern Water Tribe.

The Gaang had made their way north to visit the tranquil village, eager to regroup with their allies and recharge after their last battle. Zuko, now a trusted member of the group, had been a part of their team for some time, his fiery temperament mellowing under the warmth of friendship.

As evening fell, Zuko found himself slipping away from the warm glow of the warriors’ gathering hall. His heart raced with excitement, but he couldn’t help but feel a tinge of guilt. He was on his way to meet Y/N, the stunning waterbending princess of the Northern Water Tribe. Their secret rendezvous had become a cherished escape from the weight of his past, a place where he could be just Zuko and not the exiled prince of the Fire Nation.

Zuko made his way through the glimmering streets, his mind focused on the evening ahead. Y/N was enchanting, with a spirit as free as the ocean waves. They often met by a secluded spot near the coast, a hidden alcove surrounded by rocks and softly illuminated by the moonlight. Their conversations flowed as freely as the water, and every moment spent with her felt like a breath of fresh air.

Meanwhile, back at the hall, Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Toph gathered around the fire, their chatter filled with laughter and stories from their travels. Sokka leaned back, eyeing Zuko’s empty seat across from him.

“Where do you think Zuko keeps disappearing to every night?” he asked, suspicion lacing his tone.

Aang shrugged, his curiosity piqued. “He’s been really dedicated to training lately. Maybe he’s just taking some time to himself.”

“Or maybe he’s off brooding about something,” Toph smirked, her eyes glinting with mischief.

Katara crossed her arms, her brows furrowing. “I don’t know… It’s a little odd, don’t you think? He’s been leaving right after dinner every night.”

Sokka nodded, his expression serious. “We should follow him. If he’s up to something, I want to know what it is. It could be dangerous.”

Toph rolled her eyes, clearly amused. “Are you sure it’s not just a crush? You know how moody he gets. He probably just wants to be alone.”

“Yeah, well, I’d rather see it for myself,” Sokka said, determination in his voice. “We’ll follow him tonight.”

As night fell, Zuko met Y/N at their secret spot, the sound of the waves providing a soothing backdrop to their soft laughter. They talked about everything and nothing, sharing stories and dreams as they watched the stars twinkle above.

“Do you think they’ll ever accept you?” Y/N asked gently, her eyes reflecting concern.

Zuko sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I hope so. But my past… it’s a heavy burden. Sometimes I feel like I don’t deserve happiness.”

Y/N reached for his hand, intertwining her fingers with his. “You deserve it, Zuko. You’re not the same person you were. You’re trying to change, and that’s what matters.”

Just then, a rustling noise broke through their moment. Zuko’s heart raced, instinctively looking around. “Did you hear that?”

Before he could react, Sokka, Aang, and Katara emerged from the shadows, their expressions a mix of surprise and triumph. Toph followed behind, her trademark smirk plastered on her face.

“Zuko!” Sokka called, pointing an accusatory finger. “What’s going on here?”

Y/N quickly pulled her hand away, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. Zuko felt a surge of anger and embarrassment as he faced his friends.

“Guys, this isn’t what it looks like,” Zuko stammered, his usual composure slipping.

“Looks like a date to me,” Sokka teased, trying to mask his surprise with bravado.

Katara’s eyes widened as she turned to Y/N, who stood frozen, her expression a mix of surprise and apprehension. “You’re… you’re Princess Y/N?”

“I… uh…” Y/N stammered, unsure of how to respond.

“Zuko’s been keeping secrets!” Aang chimed in, grinning. “And here we thought he was just brooding alone!”

Zuko glared at his friends, a mixture of frustration and embarrassment coursing through him. “I didn’t want to hide this. I just wanted to keep it special.”

“Special?” Sokka raised an eyebrow, a teasing grin on his face. “This is epic!”

“Yeah, what’s the deal?” Toph chimed in, crossing her arms. “You two should’ve just told us. We would have supported you!”

Y/N finally found her voice, a hint of laughter breaking through her initial surprise. “I didn’t think it would be this complicated!”

Zuko took a deep breath, his heart racing as he turned to face Y/N. “I wanted to tell you, but I didn’t know how. You mean a lot to me, and I didn’t want to put pressure on us.”

Y/N smiled softly, her eyes shimmering under the moonlight. “I feel the same way, Zuko. I didn’t want to rush things either.”

“Okay, so are you guys dating or what?” Sokka interrupted, his curiosity piqued.

“Yes,” Zuko admitted, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. “We are.”

A cheer erupted from the group, laughter and teasing filling the air. Katara stepped forward, beaming at Y/N. “You’re perfect for him. Just know that if he hurts you, I’ll have to kick his butt!”

“I wouldn’t dare,” Zuko promised, his gaze steady on Y/N. “I care about her too much.”

As the group embraced the new dynamic, Zuko felt a warmth spread through him, a sense of acceptance he had longed for. In that moment, surrounded by his friends and Y/N, he realized that perhaps he truly was on the path to redemption. And as he intertwined his fingers with Y/N once more, he knew their love would only grow stronger in the light of honesty and friendship.

[katarasmomsnecklace]

I wanna talk about all my fav ATLA ships cuz being a multishipper can suck sometimes

I wanna look at ship tags and not see hate for another ship in them

SPREAD THE LOVE

KatAang: Classic friends to lovers. Couples who commit ecoterrorism together stay together

TAang: She was a punk He did ballet what more can I say. But like actually they're so fun to analyze with what we have in canon, they legit give soulmate vibes.

ZuTara: SHOT THROUGH THE HEART another fun one to analyze, opposites attract/enemies to lovers it's a good time

KaToph: They're defined by overcoming their "weaknesses" Katara fought for her right to be a master despite her gender and became one of the most powerful benders because of her will to fight. Toph literally invented a whole new bending style BECAUSE of her blindness. Love them

MaiLee: Bad bitches deserve bad bitches, we love a sunshine and sunshine protector. Their fighting styles compliment each other as do their personalities

MaiKo: 'I love Zuko more than I fear you" will never not be the hardest line in the show. *doesn't care she got pickles* "HOW FUCKING DARE YOU SHE SAID NO PICKLES"

Ty Luki: I just want Suki to show TyLee the ropes of being a kyoshi warrior. They have so much they can teach each other also if you like the Airbender! TyLee headcanon there's something poetic about her unlocking her powers with kyoshi's fans

YueTara: MOON AND OCEAN NEED I SAY MORE

ZUe (I actually don't know their ship name) we in rare pair hell but SUN AND MOON NEED I SAY MORE also applies to Yue x Azula you guys come up with the coolest scenarios that put either of the fire siblings in the north pole, this fandom is so creative

ZuKKi: Let Sokka pull lol but actually a King and His Guard and King and his Ambassador, it's like Sukka is great but make it better

Mai TyLee and Suki should be a bigger ship cuz I swear I'm the only one that sees it (help me name them)

Tell me about your favorite ATLA ships I freaking love these characters and I love when they love each other

[iloveboysinred]

Shouting from the rooftops, i’m in love [Firelord Zuko]

Quick little Part 2 for i wont say I’m in love, just to end the story off with fluff. Accidentally deleted so i’m reposting!

Cw; none, fluff pg.13, zuko x gn reader

The following months after defeating Firelord Ozai had been a chaotic blur for Zuko.

Not wasting a breath he descended to the throne, once again it felt like the world was on his shoulders. He had a whole plethora of new responsibilities that came with being the firelord, especially now that he bore the task of healing the pain his nation had inflicted on the people of the world.

So why was he here, back at his beach house on Ember Island with you and the rest of team Avatar?

Well, to put it simply Zuko needed a second to breathe. He had felt guilty about it at first, putting a pause to the mountains of tasks he had to complete in the name of restoring peace to the world– but the stress of being at war with his own mind and in real life, hunting the avatar down for years, adding on the trauma of dealing with his father, and then to top it all off having to now make important diplomatic decisions while being watched, poked and prodded by everyone, it didn’t take much for you and the gaang to convince him he needed a break.

Especially you.

Zuko had never stopped thinking about that night, his hand subconsciously coming up to ghost over his cheek, right over the spot you had kissed him every time he saw you. It was hard to forget even when he tried, his chest feeling fuzzy when he caught glimpses of the necklace he had gotten for you that you still kept, still safely tucked under your clothes. He was over the moon when you’d decided to stay in the fire nation after his coronation. The two of you had begone to grow exceptionally close over the past months. Yet you still couldn’t find it in you to confess to each other. Zuko’s affection was painfully obvious to everyone but you, apparently.

It was hard to breathe when he was around you, Zuko trying his best to put up a confident front, trying to show the others that he could act normally around you, making himself look even more guilty of his feelings. The others would snicker and coo at you whenever you were together, making Zuko’s breath leave his lungs, wheezing from the embarrassment. It was double the mortification when you would try to help him, asking if he was okay.

Toph and Sokka never let him live it down, bringing it up every now and again just to get his flustered on purpose. He’d accepted his feelings for you a long time ago, when Iroh casually asked him about you. Zuko had spilled out all the symptoms of being in love, rambling on and on about you. Iroh just smiled, bringing his tea cup up to his lips, enjoying the look of realization coming over Zuko’s face. “Sounds like you like them, nephew.” Zuko had turned away, trying to hide his warming cheeks.

He thought about you now, sitting on the beach with the others running around splashing each other, and using their bending. A few feet away Suki and Sokka were building a sand castle, too enthralled with each other to pay any attention to what he was doing.

Zuko glanced at you, laying back on the towel you had brought with you, a big sun hat covering your face, shielding your eyes from the sunlight. He admired the red jewel laying on the side of your chest, gleaming in the sunlight. He jumped when you started to sit up, tilting the sun hat back, rapidly blinking your eyes to get your vision clear. “Hey Zuko, do you know anywhere we can get something to drink around here?” He stilled for a brief second, trying to find the words to answer your sudden question. “Uh..yeah! We can go to this shack- around here, somewhere!” He cringed at his voice, he sounded like he was heaving dry air. Why was he so awkward? You’ve been living in the same palace for months now. He breathed out in relief when You nodded at him, getting to your feet and dusting the sand off the back of your thighs. “Let’s go, I’m seriously thirsty..”

You and Zuko walked along the beach in awkward silence, the warm sand kicking up with every anxious foot step you took. “So uh- it’s pretty warm out here, since we’re in the fire nation… it’s always- um, warm?” He could tell you knew he was trying to make conversation, and his heart warmed when you went along with it, agreeing that the fire nation was indeed very warm and that it felt nice, adding on a compliment about his skin getting tanner. It’s been a complete turn around to when you first met each other. He would speak and you would ignore him, giving him the cold shoulder and pretending he wasn’t even there, now he’d been graced with the beauty of your smile and voice. Just absolutely smitten with everything that was you.

Approaching the shack you felt a sigh of relief, waiting patiently behind an old couple in front of you. “That mango sorbet looks refreshing. Maybe I should get that and a smoothie, and we can share it?” Zuko prompted, looking at you from the corner of his eye. You agreed, deciding it was the most cost-efficient, but also agreeing because he wanted to share. You felt your heart swell in your chest, the idea of spoon feeding Zuko sorbet on the beach making you giddy. You forced yourself to act cool, fiddling with your necklace to release your anxious energy.

Finally the couple received their order, and you and Zuko walked up to the cashier, placing your order and deciding to sit down under a palm tree, taking turns eating from the sorbet, spoonful after spoonful.

The relief from the cool treat was so satisfying you almost forgot your plan. You tried to casually dip your spoon into the sorbet, only crashing into Zuko’s spoon that was going in for another scoop. You looked at each other, frozen in place for a second. You could feel your face warming, taking a breath for courage and lifting the spoon to his lips, your heart skipping a beat at his expression. He rigidly took the spoon into his mouth, eating the sorbet and reaching his spoon up to yours, his cheeks warming when you returned his actions, humming in satisfaction.

Eventually the sorbet was finished and the sun was lowering in the sky. You and Zuko had spent the day chatting and enjoying the sun, the both of you casually laying next to each other, much more comfortable than you were before. You stole a glance at him while he talked, his gravelly voice making your heart throb. His eyes flitted to yours, shyly averting his gaze when he noticed your stare, but you didn’t falter, scooting closer to him, laying your cheek on his shoulder. You could feel him tense up, and you begged the spirits for courage. “Zuko” you heard what you could only describe as a choked hum, feeling his skin begin to warm under your cheek. “Can you look at me?” he turned slowly, honey gold eyes glazed over with warmth and an expression on his face you could only pin as hesitancy. “Yeah?” he was whispering now, searching your face for any clue for what you could be thinking, his heart was beating so fast he was starting to become concerned that you might kill him. “I think I'm falling in love with you.” You sounded so sure, it took his breath away. Utter exhilaration coursing through his body, but he just couldn’t move, gaping at you like a fish out of water. “I-i–” “You love me back, I know” you finished for him, although your claim came off as arrogant, you held your breath in anticipation for what he would say. “You’re right, I do.” He looked at you now, genuine emotion in his unwavering eyes, the air of seriousness around him letting you know he was being sincere. Relief washed over you and a smile graced your face, timidly leaning forward, pressing a fleeting kiss to Zuko’s lips. But he yanked you back, molding his lips onto yours and giving you a proper kiss.

The walk back to the beach house felt too short, you and Zuko too absorbed with basking in each other’s company. The others greeted you with hoots and hollers, Toph chanting “I knew it!” extending her hand out towards Suki in triumph. You reluctantly leaned away from Zuko, trying to protect him from the slew of teasing remarks that were soon to come, but he pulled you back towards him, a small smile on his face. “Aww look at them, so in loooove” Kitara cooed, glancing at Aang with a knowing look. “Yup, I was right. Zuko likes y/n” Sokka boasted, coming up next to Zuko and patting his shoulder. He only smiled, leaning down to press a sweet kiss to your forehead, and you leaned up and returned the gesture on his cheek, ignoring the mocked noises of disgust from your friends.

[marypaol]

My Hurting Heart

Aang x Fem!Reader

Summary: Before the team faces the Fire Lord before the eclipse, Reader sees Katara and Aang kiss.

Warnings: Self doubt, negative mindset, loads of angst, crying, kissing, mention of war, mention of loosing someone, mention of death, I think that’s all :)

Note: This is new!! I normally write for Draco, but I had to write this story I came up with because I love the show.

Reader is nicknamed “Flower” so no use of Y/N

Masterlist

Request Requirements

@roseeyyyiee I saw a post of yours wanting Aang x Reader :)

Katara’s hair was in her face. Now, it wasn’t something that the girl didn’t necessarily dislike; it smelled like salt water and her father’s leather uniform from carrying him earlier, but the way it tickled her nose was something she didn’t exactly enjoy. On the contrary, she did kinda like the fact that Aang’s nose was brushing the skin of her shoulder, his breathing fanning her neck as the team embraced for what they feared would be the last time.

Doubt crowded their hearts and minds, the hands of anticipation squeezed their throats until they couldn’t breathe.

Who knows what would happen after they broke apart. Would Sokka’s invention idea suddenly go downhill? Would Katara get hurt on Appa, and would be unable to water bend? Or wound Toph get stuck in a bunch of rocks she couldn’t control? Or worse, the girl thought, would she loose Aang?

The last thought lingered as so did their touch as the group separated.

Hakoda emerged from the submarine, his hair breezing at his cheeks.

He announced everyone back in, and the group followed his orders, the girl thinking Aang and Katara followed them.

She thought she heard their soft footsteps, or rough feet of Katara running to ride Appa. Or the snap of Aang’s glider as he prepared to go the Fire Lord.

But sometimes even her mind played tricks on her, and the things she thought she heard didn’t occur.

None of them did.

“Hey, flower, go check on Katara, she needs to fly on Appa in order for us to move on.”

Sokka’s voice rang in her ears, her stomach twisting as she realized her friend wasn’t on the armed bison yet. Her feet hurt as she climbed the ladder to the hole, the sun almost blinding her as the darkness of the submarine flooded with light.

Her lips parted after her tongue escaped to lick them, vocal cords ready to call out Katara’s name.

Instead her mouth was opened more in surprise, doubt swarming her stomach, thick and hot.

She disturbed them just in time to see the back of Aang’s head close to Katara’s, a soft gasp escaping her when his lips pressed to hers.

He pulled back, hands going to his glider as it snapped open, the blue flags of fabric spreading out. The noise echoed in the girl’s ears as the boy took off, the air and him becoming one.

At that very moment, the girl couldn’t think of anything else as she watched Katara look off into the distance of the sky, most likely with flushed cheeks after the previous events.

The girl’s chest suddenly hurt with a sharp pain. No, not her chest, she thought, hand going up to squeeze the fabric of her shirt, her heart.

Her heart hurt. And she knew why.

She cleared her throat, her friend whipping around, expression flustered but cheeks back to normal color.

“Sokka told me to tell you to get going if we wanna move on.”

The girl’s voice hasn’t sounded any worse. Her throat was cloudy, imaginary hands gripping her vocal cords. What was heard was a soft hurting voice, almost inaudible.

But Katara heard it well and clear, her head nodding as her mind quickly focused on something else.

“Right, don’t worry I got it.” She said, running towards Appa.

The girl wasn’t so lucky, the picture of the two repeatedly playing in her mind.

She nodded back even though Katara was long gone, head dipping into the submarine as the cap closed loudly behind her.

She saw Sokka flinch from the noise. “Flower, why’d you let it slam!?”

He might of said something else but she didn’t get to hear it, hot tears not only clouding her vision but all her senses.

She didn’t know where to go so she went to where the water benders would be steering the submarines, since there wasn’t anyone in there at the moment.

There she curled up in the tightest ball she could, feeling like a child crying after their mom yelled at them.

She did feel yelled at, like the world finally yelled the fact that Aang would never love a girl like her. She was the alive and breathing opposite of Katara.

How could he like her? When she thought about herself she couldn’t think of one thing she liked. One thing Aang would like.

Because when he looked at her he just saw the girl who couldn’t bend anything, the girl who just was good at plans but most of the time they went with Sokka’s anyway.

Why was she even trying at that point. Trying to thrive in the group was hard enough, and trying for the Avatar to like her was like trying to get a pig to fly. Impossible.

So the girl stayed there, and later found a secret cabinet in the ship that she hid in while the water benders did their thing.

The tears were still flowing endlessly, her sobs only letting out when there was a loud noise to cover it up.

She couldn’t feel anymore alone.

Katara didn’t care about her.

She cared about showing the power of women and the Avatar saving the world.

Sokka didn’t care about her.

He cared about Suki and his sister.

Toph didn’t care about her.

She had other things to worry about, like her parents and her previous royal life.

And especially Aang. He didn’t love or care about her.

He loved Katara, and cared more about the water bender more than he could ever care about the girl crying in the submarine instead of fighting the Fire Nation.

He wanted someone who was brave and tough, someone Katara was and she wasn’t.

She sniffed loudly, and thankfully the water benders didn’t hear her but a small part of her wished they did.

At least then someone would show a speck of care she thrived for.

She wanted someone to care, to love her, but Aang wasn’t that person as she hoped he would be.

“Flower I feel you under there.”

She gasped at the voice, knowing all too well that it was Toph because of her feet being her eyes.

“Go away; aren’t you supposed to be helping the earth benders?”

Worry gripped the girl for a moment, scared that Toph and the team somehow failed and she came to tell her that the Avatar is dead for good this time.

Toph chuckled, sensing the girl’s worry with just her feet.

“Yeah, but I noticed you were gone…. Well Sokka did because I can’t see you. But I wanted to look for you.”

The girl wiped her eyes, thanking God that Toph couldn’t see her tears. And praying that she couldn’t sense them.

“There’s no use getting me- I’m no help to the team anyway.”

Toph blinked, seeming to be looking off into space but the girl knew she was listening.

“Yeah you are, flower, without you Twinkle Toes would still be a nervous wreck.”

The girl thought back when she assured Aang that he was ready for the Fire Lord, despite his nightmares saying otherwise. What she told him was true, every word about him being strong and brave and all the other things she told him.

“Katara would’ve said those things too.”

Toph shook her head, hair strands moving in front of her face.

“Not as good as you did.”

The simple sentence reassured her for a moment, but that didn’t change the fact that Aang didn’t feel the same way.

“Doesn’t matter!” She suddenly exclaimed. “Aang kissed Katara before he left so that means that he loves her, not me, so if anything I am useless and stupid because if he doesn’t love me than I don’t know what I am. What am I, Toph? I’m a nobody without him. Without him, I feel empty, and stupid, and lonely, and unhelpful and unloved, and-“

She was babbling on so much she didn’t notice the tears blurring her vision once again, her cheeks soaked from the liquid of doubt.

Toph reached out for the girl, grabbing her hands and held her once she found out where she was.

Toph shushed her sobs, rubbing her back as she placed her feet on the ground, so she could sense that if anyone was coming.

“It’s okay, Flower. Twinkle Toes will realize what he lost.”

The never ending tears soaked the earth bender’s clothes, but neither of them cared.

“He’ll never even notice. I was never his.” The girl whispered.

“Not true.” Toph said instantly. “And if his stupid brain doesn’t realize it I’ll make him.”

The girl let out a very small smile into her friend’s clothes.

Thanks for reading! 📖

[umeumeumee]

Hii! for your atla/lok event, can i req a tophxfem!firebender with the prompt “please just listen to me” angst and romance if that’s fine? thank you!! :)

whispers in the dark

ᥫ᭡ hello! I’m sorry this took a while, i really (don’t like it very much) but hope you like it! i love toph<3 (this takes place after the events of atla, and the comics, so they are 15-16 or something) (also… i didn’t proof read it, so sorry for any errors)

toph beifong x fem! reader

ᥫ᭡ when on a mission with toph, you reveal your most regretful mistake and biggest secret. you feared it would forever ruin your most dear relationship.

Silence crept up the bone of your spine.

it was suffocating— the heat was scorching, you felt as though your limbs could fall of any second. Your heart beat was fast— not because you couldn’t get a clear path, but because you couldn’t breathe. The air in your lungs was nonexistent, your body barely hanging on to the big gulp of oxygen you provided before making the most stupid decision of your life.

You kept close to Toph, making sure not to loose her in this tunnel— knowing she was the only where who knew exactly where to go, when to go.

the only sound in the never ending cave was the constant beat of her bare feet moving through the dirt, listening, waiting, like a preditor to prey. It was gnawing, the silence— the lack of oxygen , the sticky air.

you wanted gasp, to breath— but you couldn’t, too afraid you would give away your position.

your lungs ached, scratching your throat and piercing your chest cavity— desperately trying to get what they want, but you fought it, puffing your cheeks and calming your rapid heart.

You couldn’t see— anything— Toph was your only hope of survival, and only you knew that without her— and without your flame, you were dead.

A rough hand met yours, pulling you forward when you staggered behind, urging you to continue on your path. You shut your eyes— because; open or not, the only visible thing was darkness.

you followed toph blindly, holding the air in your lungs as long as you could.

your head felt fuzzy.

you shut your eyes, shaking your head and swallowing harshly. your body began to contract, its need for air conditioning you to suffer. Toph caught on, and you wondered how she could hold her breath for so long, as she didn’t seem to falter nearly as much as you.

Finally, after what felt like neons, she stopped walking, her grip on your hand loosened to the point she let go, leaving you to put your hand to your mouth, and the earth began to shake.

She lifted you two from the tunnel, slowly, so agonizingly slow, you could pass out.

finally, finally, you were met with the bright light of the shining sun, meeting the familiar sight of freedom. You released your gasp, lungs taking in as much air as you possibly could, toph doing the same. You coughed, breathing in the freshness of the outside world. You fell back, laying flat on the high grass that was new behind you, continuing your heavy breaths and deep breathing.

“Finally,” Toph managed out, and it was astonishing how she could find her voice after so long of holding her breath. you couldn’t find yours, only nodding and staring at the sky.

you groaned when she obscured your vision, and you sat up.

“I thought i was going to die,” you exclaim, sighing heavily and placing a hand to your temple. Toph laughed, crossing her arms.

“c’mon, we have to meet the others,” she says, offering her hand out to you. It was pointed a little too far to the left, but you decided to say nothing of it and took her hand palm in palm with yours.

You and Toph, along side Aang, Katara, and sokka, had just escaped a highly secured prison. The reason you were there? you couldn’t answer. Half the time with their group, you didn’t know what you were doing.

They mentioned something about letting someone out, but you didn’t know if that meant they were letting someone out, or if someone else had let that person out. Honestly? you decided not to get too involved

In fact, the only reason you were here, and not back at camp— was because toph had insisted you come. why? once again, you hadn’t an idea.

Your friendship with the legendary earthbender was a deep one, a connection that ran though you both like tree roots through the ground. You enjoyed her company, as did she, yours, but you couldn’t help the tinge of guilt that ate at you with every second you spent with her and the others.

You both had met when the 100 year war was ‘Still forging onward,’ being accepted into their group at such a calloused time lead for the truth to be slightly bent in your favor, a favor you knew you’d regret not fessing up to immediately.

While the one hundred year war was continuing, firebender’s were the most feared and despised people in the world, why would anyone— especially the avatar— want anything to do with someone of that caliber?

You were a firebender. And growing up in the fire nation, you were a pretty damn good liar as well.

When toph had used her ability to tell if you were lying, you easily passed her test with flying colors and slowly earned the trust of the gang. She trusted you dearly, as did the others, but you couldn’t help but was to burn off your own tongue for lying in such a crude way.

The guild will never not burn you.

you cleared your throat as you walked beside her, hoping your façade wasn’t slipping away and she couldn’t catch you. You sent her a side glance, her hair falling afront her face.

if the truth got out, you fear the person you find most dear will be lost forever.

“So,” you hummed, the silence falling between you both was not like the suffocating kind. it was calming.

“where exactly are we going?” you ask, hands intertwined behind your back, glancing occasionally to the girl beside you.

Toph didn’t say anything, only throwing a harsh punch to your shoulder out of nowhere. “Ouch!” you exclaim, furrowing your brows as Toph smirked. “What was that for?”

“felt like it.” toph hummed out, putting her arms over her head so her elbows stuck out, her smirk adding to her cocky look.

“so mean, toph.” you playfully said, sniffing jokingly. she waved her hand, cracking a laugh at your actions.

“we’re meeting aang up the hill,” she says, answering your previous question and walking faster. You jogged to catch up, still rubbing the sore spot on your shoulder from her punch.

you didn’t reply, her answer didn’t really call for a response in itself.

once again, you two walked in silence. The birds sang and the wind hummed, it was calming.

but you felt a pitch in your stomach.

Your pace with toph faltered momentarily, and it caught the girls attention. she asked what was the matter, and you shrugged it off.

“Nothing.”

your walking continued, as did your feeling. You swallowed. You’ve felt this many times before, like you were being watched, scavenged— hunted. You’d witnessed it first hand, and the feelings as well too familiar.

But, you opted to believe it was your imagination, as Toph seemed fine. She kept her normally quick speed, which you failed to catch up to due to your unfortunate instant of feeling.

A twig.

You halted, and Toph did too— her hers pinned in the same direction as your eyes. To the forest point of the trail. You stood ground, scanning— waiting.

you knew something was out there— Suddenly, a giant burst of flaming hot red fire shot towards toph, the heat passing by you and burning the skin of your forearm.

You yelp momentarily from the pain, you were out of practice.

but, quickly regaining self and taking action by stepping afront the earthbender to protect her— smoothly redirecting the flame to the source.

A groan was heard from the woods as the fire shot through and to the original predecessor, who now lay limp on the floor.

You assumed nothing of him— quickly turning your attention to toph. You’d just firebent— infront of her.

your heart dropped, the expression on her face was unreadable, almost unsettling— her eyes held nothing, you couldn’t decipher what she was thinking.

“I—” your words were cut off by the sting of your burn, causing you to breathe in roughly through clenched teeth.

You clenched your jaw when Toph stepped away from you, her feet tightly ground to the floor.

“Toph, please just listen to me.” you pleaded, but before you could step forward, earth engulfed your moving foot, preventing you from stepping forward.

The lump in your throat was worse than suffocating.

The stone in your heart was heavy enough to make you drown.

Toph walked off, rolling her jaw with stiff shoulders and fists clenched so tight you worried she might draw blood. You called after her, apologies behind each step she took.

You couldn’t stop the tears from brimming in your eyes. You didn’t know if it was from the severity of your burn, or the fact that the most important person to you had found out the one thing you regret most.

you let tears roll once the girl was gone from your vision, cursing yourself over and over.

You were such a Fool.

ੈ✩‧₊₊˚⊹♡

Toph clenched her jaw so tight, she swore she heard the crack of her bone. each step she took felt like she had just stepped in burning hot magma, leaving her body to ache and scream.

you were a firebender.

You lied to her. How could you? after everything?

you’d won the poor girls heart, caught in between your hands like a firefly in the night. this is how she gets repaid for being docile. this is what she gets for feeling such things for you.

toph angrily grunted, kicking rocks from her path and wanting to throw herself off the cliff.

how could you?

“Toph!” the familiar call of Aang paused her thoughts, the girl completely halting her movements as the boy approached. She felt the confusion swirl within him, and nausea flooded her like a river. how was she going to tell him?

“Where’s Y/n?” aang asked innocently, curiously and worry brimming his tone with concern for his friend. Toph bit her cheek, no doubt a sour look on her face.

“You mean the liar?” she bit out, almost surprised by her own tone. Aang flinched at the unexpected gesture of reply, confusion placing itself on his face.

“what?” Toph almost felt bad for him. Aang really liked you, and he often found himself pulling strings with you and toph for fun.

Toph crossed her arms, “yeah. the liar,” she repeated, passing by the boy with a soft shove to his shoulder— but for him, enough to send him slightly staggering backward.

“What are you talking about?” he insisted, and Toph knew for a fact that if she could see his face, she’d feel even more horribly.

She suddenly turned around— Aang, who had previously been closely following her footsteps— slammed into her rock hard form.

She laughed bitterly. “Our little, innocent friend y/n,” she says mockingly, usung her hands to add to her tone in physical gestured expression. “Is a firebender.” she could feel the hitch of aang’s breath and the grip he held on his staff tighten.

“she’s been lying to us this whole time.” her words were sour, like eating spoiled fruit, or drinking poorly done tea.

Aang’s reply didn’t come anytime soon, and toph could only guess his feelings on the subject.

Toph knew that it mattered mostly because your lie was told during the most important time of their lives. The hundred year war. You lied to them about.. everything. During the day if the black sun, Sozin’s comit, you lied. Every, single, time.

Toph kicked a massive chunk of dirt off the cliff, hearing it slam down the many feet of rock to the base of the hill.

“i can’t believe this.” she spoke, sitting down on a rock nearby and letting out a deep, heavy sigh. She was hurt.

she felt like her heart had been ripped apart. damn organ never learned.

“We can forgive her, Toph. make her amend,” aang finally said, “Yes, she lied, but she is still y/n. her bending doesn’t define her.” he added.

sometimes his optimism was too much.

Toph shot from her seat, fuming. “Forgive her?” she shouted, expanding a hand to where she had left you, feeling you still in the grasp of the earth she left you in. “She lied! for over two years, aang. She’s a liar— how do we know she isn’t lying about everything else she’s told us?” she bit, clearly more upset than the Airbender.

Aang took a deep breath, he was calm. the flaming opposite of toph.

“I understand that, Toph, but we met her a while ago during the war, and, well, being a firebender was definitely.. not the way to join our group.” he recalled, referring to when Zuko tried to join after almost a year of hunting him and his friends down.

“Zuko is a firebender. And now we are all close friends, even to y/n. even though she lied.” aang stepped closer to toph, who’s nose was scrunched. “I’m sure she didn’t plan to keep on lying.”

“But she did,” the beifong quickly bit back, figuring for anymore reason to continue her strike on you. “the war ended almost two and a half ago, and she is with us so often. Why wouldn’t she just tell us? Why didn’t she use her firepower during the Comit?”

Aang pursed his lips as Toph continued on, and his understanding for her rage deepened.

It wasn’t.. a big secret, the way that toph felt for you. She had no doubt the biggest soft spot for you than anyone else in the group— heck, probably anyone else in the world. She put up with you day and night, and being the busy person she was, she would uncharacteristically drop both important as well as unimportant things to spend her time with you.

Aang may only be fifteen, but he wasn’t stupid.

Aang grew up in the air temples, where people didn’t hide who they loved, men or women alike. The air nomads were accepting of all differences and embraced everyone, no matter their orientation. and right now, aang felt as though Toph could use some good avatar wisdom.

He placed a solid hand to the shoulder of the furious Earthbender, her words dying in her throat. “Toph,” aang said, and said girl knew she was in for it now.

“The feelings you hold for Y/n aren’t a mystery,” he says, his hold on toph unwavering as she visibly stiffened under his words.

“I understand why you are so upset, the betrayal and hurt you feel must been worse than any pain,” he sympathized, surprising himself how he was able to actually, somewhat, cool toph down. “But we should hear her out. At least for a little while.”

the beifong sat down once more on the rock after shoving off her friends hand, keeping her feet firm to the ground, she spoke. “Fine.”

Aang instantly went to fetch you, finding you in no time. He approached slowly, your figure rolled into a ball. He saw your foot held tightly by the earth, causing you to not be able to escape — although if you wanted to, you could.

“Y/n?” he called slowly, hearing your sniffling. You quickly lifted your heard to the familiar sound of your friends voice.

Aang frown as he saw you— tear stains ran down your face, your lips and eyes puffy from crying. You didn’t speak, only looking away from his eyes in shame.

he knew how horrible you must feel. Lying, no matter how justified , is a punishment for both ends of the party.

You stood up as he came closer, clumsily wiping your cheeks free of the previous tear stains, and it was only then did he notice the burn on your forearm. He took note of it for later.

Your face was skeptical with each step he took, like you didn’t know if he was going to hurt you, or help you.

Your eyes widen when the grasp of earth on your foot fell away, retreating back to the earth by command of the Avatar. You watched it go, flickering your gaze to meet the sincere eyes of aang.

He expanded his hand for you to take, and with caution— you accepted it.

He led you back up the hill, guiding you slowly and smiling every time you caught his eye.

The feelings you harbored for toph weren’t a mystery, either. it was painful to see any interaction between you both , as everyone who bore witness was at the edge of their seat with suspense. You are always eager to help, offering to fill positions people didn’t want, hoping to it easier for everyone— when, well, toph just did what she wanted, when she wanted. he was surprised you two got along so well when you’d first met.

your steps halted when aang’s did. You could almost feel toph’s displeasure in the air. You couldn’t dare to look up, even if she couldn’t see you.

Aang cleared his throat, releasing his comforting grip on your hand and stepping between you two.

“So,” he started, nodding. “there has been a.. miscommunication between all of us, and we have brought you, y/n, here help us resolve it.”

you were genuinely surprised by how calm he sounded, almost like he wasn’t bothered with the fact you’d been lying to them all this time.

You stood awkwardly when no one said anything, too afraid of Toph screaming at you for opening your mouth.

“Y/n,” he called, “Why don’t we start with why you decided to lie in the first place.”

that’s how it started. you were honest from the very beginning. You had told them the truth of most things, you were raised in the fire nation, just not in the less population areas. you did undergo training, but it was not just physical combat but fire as well. You did not want to lie, but you saw no other option.

you never wanted to hurt them.

Toph abruptly stood up when you finished, clearly still fuming. She walked off, fists clenched. You watched her do with shameful eyes, gnawing your cheek.

Aang saw, stepping forward.

“I’ll help your burn, and then you can go talk to her.” you wanted to refuse his offer, after everything you’ve done he wanted to help you? but he didn’t list it as an option to say no.

You let him heal your arm with waterbending he learned from Katara— someone you knew would not take this lightly.

aang had a plan. heal you up, and get you to talk to Toph. despite how obviously upset she is, she has yet to lash out on you. the soft spot she has for you hasn’t left, and he’s hoping this whole thing will reveal it to you.

“Done,” he says, wrapping a cloth around the burn and securing it tightly. You winced, knowing you were definitely going to have a scar.

“go talk to Toph.” he motioned in the direction she went, and you faltered. “Aang,” you cleared your throat to hide the crack in it, “She hates me.” your words seemed to physically pain you. “I.. can’t. She will just be more upset. she deserves space and time and—“ you stopped, his hand was placed to your shoulder firmly. A grip he did to stop rambling.

“Go talk to her.” you couldn’t deny his demand, nodding and slowly turning away to walk after the Earthbender. Aang sigh, scratching the nape of his back as he watched you tumble away.

You held your burnt arm, his healing skills not nearly as good as Katara’s , hence the pain you continued to feel.

after what felt like days, you finally found Toph. Sitting once more on a rock as her pale green eyes found solace on whatever was infront of her. You knew she knew you were there, her feet hadn’t left the floor since you’d met her.

you approached with caution, stopping when she shifted in her seat to cross her arms. You took a leap of faith and sat down beside her, swallowing the lump in your throat as you tried to find the words.

all that came out was a weak apology.

“I’m so, so sorry.”

your voice was trembling, almost like you were scared. Toph didn’t know what you had to be afraid of, and she wondered if you were scared of her.

when her reply didn’t come, you went to stand up— to give her the space she so desperately needed, but before you could get too far, a calloused hand caught your wrist.

You froze, Turing to face her. she was standing up with her expression once more unreadable, but the grip she had on you was strong enough to leave a mark.

You went to utter another apology— but before you could muster up the courage— a pair of soft lips met yours.

If you could die from pure and utter shock and surprise, you would be dead. Was she.. kissing you? Now? here? after what you did?

you were too surprised to do anything, but eventually you snapped back and cautiously kissed her back. It was soft, like a shallow embrace. it was warm, like holding someone in a cold night.

you pulled back first, breathing nervously through your nose. You stare at her, not missing the sprinkle of pink dusting her pale face. You were about to open your mouth when a very rough punch came your way.

Her fist landed right above your burn, causing you to genuinely wince of pain. It didn’t really seem to bother her, though. and you took that as her way of getting back at you.

She slipped a small, shy smile.

“Don’t lie to me ever again, stupid.”

[imagines--galore]

||The Thread of Fate|| Part Thirty-Eight

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

Pairing: Zuko x OroraOC (ATLA)

Rating || Genres || Warnings: T+ Romance. Adventure. Angst. Hurt/Comfort. Family.

Previous Chapters - Masterlist

A/N: Without further ado - The Long Awaited Fateful Date. PART ONE! Yes!!! I have split these into TWO parts and am going to milk as much date shenanigans as I can. This chapter is for all you lovely Readers for waiting so patiently, and for sticking with Orora and Zuko and rooting for them all this time! Oh and thank you to some amazing friends who helped me add in even more adorable moments for our couple in this chapter. Always appreciate your feedback! Enjoy!

Orora had gone to sleep with a smile on her lips, and had woken with the same smile. She'd risen from her makeshift bed, stretching her arms over her head as she glanced around the living area they had been occupying since they arrived.

Everyone was asleep around her, tired out from yesterday's activities. Suki and Sokka lay side by side, their fingers inches away from the other. They'd probably fallen asleep holding hands, the girl mused to herself as she ran her fingers through her hair to try and tame the locks from a fitful night of sleep. The thought made her smile as her eyes moved to Katara who lay just beside her. Reaching out to cover the other girl's shoulder where her blanket had slid down, Orora couldn't help but smile at Toph's rather interesting sleeping position that had her feet still elevated, with her body twisted in a strange way.

Only two bed rolls were empty, which she knew belonged to Zuko and Aang. Dawn had probably broken out an hour or so ago, and with the firebenders affinity to rise with the sun, she knew both boys were already going through their fire forms.

The thought of her soulmate had the young girl's smile only widening as a soft blush bloomed across her cheeks. A burst of vibrant light had her glancing at her thread. The constant glow had flared up briefly, and she wandered if perhaps it was because of the surge of a certain strong emotion that burned within her heart.

An emotion that had been lingering at the corner of her mind, but had been growing in warmth with each passing day.

Then there was the excitement that had her smiling to herself.

Zuko had finally asked her out on a date.

Despite her best efforts, a giggle escaped her lips, her legs pulling towards her body as she wrapped her arms around them and rested her cheek on her knees. Her head was angled towards the open window, allowing her a perfect view of the blue sky and sea, seamlessly merging together as the sun continued its ascent. Orora closed her eyes, allowing her mind to simply wander.

Wander through all the moments she had had with Zuko since their first meeting.

Moments where she had fallen for him.

Slowly but surely.

They may have been destined to be together, but with what fate had in store for them at every turn, they could both have chosen to turn their back on one another and fought against their bond.

And if she recalled, in the very beginning, for a few brief months, Orora had tried to reject the bond at every turn. And though Zuko had helped that along, what with his constant anger, rudeness and his affinity to treat her as an inferior at that time, that had all changed.

Changed when she had become aware of a whole other side of him. A side he hid from the rest of the world.

For what had the world done for him?

His mother had left. His cousin had died. His father had scarred him. His people had labeled him a traitor. His sister had tried to kill him on multiple occasions.

And yet there was still a side of him that was kind, just, honorable, compassionate, understanding, brave, selfless and empathetic.

Traits that were rare in this scarred world.

They may not have been obvious when she had met him, but the seeds had been there.

All they had required was some coaxing.

Orora knew if she ever spoke to him about them, he would deny it. Because, despite all that he had gone through, he still didn't believe himself to be worthy of such titles.

She sighed, wishing he would come to see himself as she saw him.

A sudden jerk at her side had the moment of peace shattering as Orora went tumbling to the floor. "Ow!" She groaned, sitting up, slightly dazed at the sudden chance in momentum and position.

A shadow fell across her, prompting her to look up and glare at Sokka. "What did you do that for?" She grumbled, already standing up and brushing her clothes down. Her brother rolled his eyes. "I've called your name five times already! And since looking out the window was so distracting, I figured a little change in scenery would have you paying attention to me."

More then a little annoyed to be pulled out of such pleasant thoughts, the girl couldn't help but shove him a little. "KiKi! Your boyfriend needs attention!" She called over to Suki who was putting away the bed rolls, while watching the entire exchange with a smile on her lips.

Sokka pushed her back. "Don't shove me."

Orora retaliated. "You shoved me first."

"You weren't listening to me."

"Then you tap a person's shoulder. Not shove them to the floor."

"How about you pay more attention to your surroundings?"

"How about you stop being such a child who was denied his favorite toy weapon?"

A sudden spray of water showering over them had both teenagers pausing as their younger sister entered the battleground.

"Alright you two! Quit it!"

It seemed Katara wasn't in the mood for another one of Sokka and Orora's spite-less spat so early in the morning.

"He-She started it." They each stated at the same time. Katara rolled her eyes. "I don't care who started it. I'm finishing it."

To Sokka, she ordered. "Go outside and get some firewood and bring in Aang and Zuko." To Orora she gestured to the door. "You're the only one left so go wash up."

The news had the young girl blinking in confusion. "I am?" She looked around, a hand raising to rub the back of her head. "How long was I staring out the window?" The Waterbender whispered to herself. "Of course Toph picked up on it and responded. "A while. The only reason I wasn't bothered by you was because I knew you were fine because your heartbeat was fine."

Frowning slightly, Suki put away the remaining bed rolls and turned her attention to her friend. "What exactly had you thinking so hard you barely noticed us getting up Orora?" She asked, a little worried about her friend.

"No reason!" The girl squeaked, feeling her cheeks flush as her heartbeat quickened, before she rushed out of the room. Hopefully Toph wouldn't be able to sense her heartbeat.

"Spirits! What is wrong with me?" Orora scolded herself. Closing the door of the room behind her, the girl walked over to the bucket of water and bent over it, splashing the cool water against her face. But even as her skin cooled, her mind wandered to last night.

Replaying the moment when Zuko had asked her on a date. Standing in front of her, looking hopeful once he had asked his question, and yet with a surety in his gaze that had her feeling glad.

Glad that he had no doubt of what her answer would be. He had led a life filled with doubts and uncertainties, but now that she was in his life, Orora was adamant that he would never experience either of those two emotions as far as they concerned her.

She straightened, her gaze finding her complexion in the mirror. Her arms lifted to push her hair back in her usual style, pulled back at the side with her blue dragon hair clip, while the rest of it cascaded around her shoulders. Tilting her head, Orora brushed a few loose strands of hair behind her ear, wandering if she would need to do something different with her hair for the date.

As she began to pull on her new arm bands and everything else that came with her ensemble, she wandered if she should change to her Water Tribe clothing. Katara and Sokka already had. Though she would have to change back for the evening when she went out with Zuko. But then would it be acceptable to wear an outfit he had already seen for their first date. She couldn't very well go out and buy new clothes. They needed to use the money they had wisely because who knew how long they would be here.

Her thoughts continued to jump from one question to the other. Questions she had no answer to. How long she stood there, staring at her reflection in the mirror, Orora had no idea.

The door suddenly slamming open behind her had Orora letting out a startled gasp as she spun on her heel, wide eyed and arms raised to defend. She let out a sigh of relief when she realized it was only Toph and Suki. "Ever heard of knocking?" She quipped, flicking her hair back from where the end of the strands had been resting over her shoulders.

Suki responded with a finger pointed at Toph who had her arms crossed over her chest. "Is there a reason your heartbeat is going crazy Ice Princess?" The Earthbender asked. The older girl frowned. "No it isn't." She stated even as her hand raised itself to rub over the spot where her heart lay beneath.

"And since I just heard Prince Pouty shouting at Aang for getting a form wrong I knew it wasn't him in here with you that would cause your heart to go nuts." Toph continued completely ignoring Orora's words as she did. Behind her Suki let out a snort of laughter, clapping her hand over her mouth when Orora glared at her.

Shaking her head, Orora pursed her lips. "I was just........thinking stupid things. Things I've never even thought of before." She muttered under her breath as the other two girls entered the room. Suki raised an eyebrow. "Care to elaborate." She urged, to which the other girl sighed, running a hand through her still unkempt hair. "I'm just.......anxious about my date with Zuko." She finally revealed.

There was a moment of silence.

"Sokka owes us both." Toph stated, the smugness in her voice evident as she glanced at the Warrior beside her. Suki smiled at her friend. "Isn't that a good thing? You've been talking about going on a date for days now." She reminded, to which Orora nodded. "I know." She walked between the two girls, coming to stand in the doorway before turning to face them. "And I'm really happy, but we're in the middle of the war, and here I am worrying about what to do with my hair, and if I should wear make up, and most importantly, I have nothing to wear." She gestured down to herself once she finished her small tirade.

Groaning loudly, Toph made a face. "Really? You've been brought to that level? You could show up in a sack-dress and Zuko would still think you're the prettiest girl he's ever seen."

Orora blinked, a little surprised at Toph's reveal. "He thinks I'm pretty?" She asked, fixating on the words the Earthbender had used. Suki gave Orora a dead-panned look. "Really Rory? You're really asking that question when the guy can't even look away from you for more then a few minutes."

The Waterbender averted her gaze, feeling a flush of embarrassment bloom across her cheeks as Toph let out a bark of laughter. "You should've felt his heartbeat when he saw you in your Fire Nation disguise, and while you were down at the beach. I honestly thought it would burst out of his chest or something." She sniggered to herself. Suki stepped forward. "I can help out if you need some help getting ready. What time are you meeting Zuko?"

"Around six in the evening."

"........."

"How about we get some breakfast first?"

                                          ————————–

"You alright Orora?" Katara asked from where she was just finishing up plating breakfast. Sokka was nowhere to be seen, though judging by the voices in the courtyard, he had gone to run the second part of the errand his sister had assigned him. Suki smiled. "She's just a little nervous about her date tonight." She explained, to which Orora burst out. "I'm not nervous!"

A gasp of sheer delight, followed by a smile, before Katara rushed forward to give her older sister a crushing hug. "About time!" She laughed happily, allowing Orora to push away from her grip. "I thought I'd have to talk to Zuko for taking so long." She said with a slight roll of her eyes. Orora, who was gasping for breath, gaped at her younger sister. "You what?!"

Katara was spared from responding as the three boys entered from the courtyard, with Sokka having flung a friendly arm around Zuko's shoulders, who appeared just as flustered as Orora looked. Meanwhile, Aang was mirroring Katara's grin, though the teasing look in his eyes was apparent as he nudged Zuko's side with an elbow.

The entire atmosphere was one of playfulness and jest. And the moment Zuko and Orora met one another's gaze, the remaining occupants of the room seemed to perk up with an energy that was usually reserved to Aang on most days.

"Orora!" Sokka said, striding towards the girl, allowing Zuko a brief reprieve from the painful grip around his shoulders. "As your older brother, I have just been giving Zuko the talk on how I would hurt him should he hurt you." He threw an arm around Orora's shoulders, who looked more then a little pained as the boy continued. "I mean I know he's hurt you before, and on a significantly higher level then anyone could ever imagine."

The two victims of the conversation winced, their gazes flitting around, trying to beg the captivated audience to shut Sokka up. Katara and Suki were no help, leaning against one another for support as they did their best to suppress their laughter. Aang was watching the entire exchange with that same grin as before, while Toph sniggered not so quietly.

"Since I wasn't aware of your relationship with him before, I take responsibility for that." The boy sighed, as if the very weight of the world was on his shoulders. "If I had given him a talking to, he would have thought twice before hurting you."

Normally Orora would have no problem shutting Sokka up with an ice mask. Lets just say, in that moment, the girl was rendered speechless, as well as too shocked, to make a move and do anything.

"But that doesn't matter. You two are about to start anew and I couldn't be much happier." The boy finally ended, wiping away a tear from the corner of his eye. "Go, live your life." He made a motion as if he were about to push Orora in Zuko's direction, but the girl pivoted on her feet, and brought herself to a halt halfway.

Aang, who didn't want to be left behind in the teasing, added. "You know, I was wandering why Zuko was so easy on me this morning." He paused. "Well easier then usual." The young Avatar muttered under his breath before adding with a grin. "But now I get it." The boy completely ignored the murderous look Zuko threw his way. "He was too busy planning the date."

Toph, who had waited long enough for breakfast, finally spoke up. "Can we eat something now? These two will still be here to torment after we've all had something to eat."

As everyone, minus the two who were being tormented, agreed Zuko glanced at Orora, who shot him an apologetic look at her brother's antics. He just shook his head, reaching out to gently squeeze her hand in reassurance. Heaving a sigh of relief, the girl smiled back.

"You two aren't gonna kiss in front of us are you?" Aang spoke up from where he, Katara, Sokka and Suki were all watching the silent exchange between the two soulmates. Toph was already stuffing her mouth with food so she couldn't be bothered by what was going on.

The two teenagers shot away from one another, bodies stiff and expressions flushed. "No!" They chimed together, before moving forward in tandem, grabbing their breakfast plates and sitting down a little ways away from the rest of the group, just so they could escape some of the teasing.

Though that failed the moment everyone had made it halfway through their breakfasts.

"So Zuko, any special plans for tonight?" That was Suki, which earned her a glare from her friend who stabbed a piece of fruit on her plate with her chopstick a little too viciously. It seemed whatever sympathy the Kiyoshi Warrior had for her friend went right out the window in favor of teasing her instead.

"I don't know about that." Katara chuckled. "Zuko's plans have the tendency to blow up in his face."

Sokka, ever the guy with a plan, scowled. "So what? He should go into the date without a plan?" He asked to which Aang shrugged.

"Sometimes having no plan is the best plan." The Airbender added. Toph laughed loudly. "Don't say that in front of Sokka. His head might burst."

Placing a piece of egg in her mouth, Suki leaned back on one hand, humming in contemplation. "Well, he could take her on a nice stroll along the beach." She suggested, to which Katara shook her head. "Too predictable." The young Waterbender stated, just as Aang spoke up. "They can borrow Appa for a romantic flight."

Toph, already working on a second helping of breakfast, added. "What about going to a wrestling match?" Sokka perked up. "I wouldn't say no to that."

Rolling her eyes, Suki poked her boyfriend's ribs playfully. "Zuko and Orora are going on the date, not the two of you. You're supposed to suggest activities they would do."

While the conversation between the small group continued, Zuko tilted his head towards Orora. "I know you said we would meet at six." He spoke, his voice low so that even Toph wouldn't hear them. "But-"

He was cut off by the girl, as she turned her imploring gaze towards him. "Please." She all but begged softly, unable to take anymore teasing on both their behalves.

And so while the rest of the group were engaged in a rather spirited conversation on what Zuko could plan for a first date, the two teenagers set their plates down. Glancing down at her arm bands, Orora pulled them off, tossing them aside and picking out her older one's, making her look less like she was getting ready for battle, and more like a casual teenager out and about. Zuko's pack was close by, making it easier for him to grab his cloak before he headed to the window where Orora was already waiting for him on the other side. The Prince with the grace of an expert, jumped out of the window. As soon as his feet were on the ground, Orora grabbed his hand, and grinning, the two of them raced off.

                                          ————————–

"Spirits! I had no idea they would be that relentless." Orora gasped out once the both of them had stopped running and paused quite some ways from the Summer House to try and catch their breath.

Zuko scoffed breathlessly. "Well what did you expect? The reason none of us have given up on the war is because we're so relentless. Wouldn't that apply in other parts of our lives as well?" He added. Laughing softly Orora shook her head. "Look at you, making such astute observations." She cooed reaching out to playfully ruffle his hair as she did.

He batted her hand away from his already messy hair. "I didn't think our date would start so unexpectedly." He admitted, starting to walk down the path with Orora beside him. The girl shrugged in response. "And since when has anything ever gone as we expected when it comes to the two of us?" She asked with a sardonic smile playing about her lips.

Squeezing the hand that was still intertwined with his own, Zuko smiled softly at her. "It may not have gone as we expected, but in the end we're together aren't we?" He asked. A shy smile on her lips, Orora playfully bumped her shoulder against his. "Hey, I thought I was the one who saw the bright side of things."

Zuko shrugged. "Maybe you're rubbing off on me."

Orora rolled her eyes. "Spirit forbid you start smiling more."

"You don't smile that often either."

"I smile more then you do."

"Ouch! Is that the kind of thing you'd say to your date?"

"No, I'd tease them ever more."

"I'm already regretting this."

"Ouch! Is that the kind of thing you'd say to your date?"

"......."

"......."

"You're right, I would be more teasing too."

"Ha!"

                                          ————————–

Did Zuko have reservations this morning when he had woken up with little to no idea how to plan a date?

Yes he did.

Granted he had been on a date before. One that had gone horribly wrong because he had no idea how to act on one. Plus he hadn't planned it either. And that had been only for a few hours.

Now, because of their friends, he would be spending the entire day with Orora.

Strangely enough, that feeling of apprehensiveness that had plagued him the past few hours had dissipated the moment Orora had held his hand and they had run away together. Zuko knew that no matter what he planned, and he had planned a few things, Orora would love them all the same.

Because, she was Orora. And knowing her, she would appreciate him for whatever he did.

Which was why he vowed to make their date even better then he had originally planned.

Though all of that came later.

For most of the morning, the two of them simply walked around and talked. Zuko had purchased a bag of fire flakes and candied moon peaches from a small shop early on. And with the two bags being shared between them, the two teenagers did nothing but talk.

The best part of the conversation?

They already knew what the other's demons were. Already knew the other down to the very essence of their soul. There was no comforting word offered, no tears to dry, no words of wisdom to be shared, and certainly no reassurances that would calm their raging emotions and broken hearts.

All that was done.

And all that was shared during that morning walk, were teasing remarks........

"She was flirting with you!" Zuko stated for the third time. Shaking her head, Orora sighed.

"No Zuko, she was flirting with you until I grabbed your arm." The girl clarified, her hand still wrapped around his arm as they both walked down the path towards the beach for more privacy. "And then she started to flirt with me."

Gripping the two bags of snacks he had just purchased, Zuko grumbled under his breath. "Its bad enough that I have to fight off guys when it comes to your attention, but now I have to fight girls too."

Orora shrugged. "Well its not like it's easy for me. I have to fight off both sexes as well."

Turning his head, the boy was silent for a brief moment before echoing. "You do?"

A little taken aback at his obliviousness, Orora fixed her boyfriend with a teasing smile. "Zuko? Have you never had a boy stare at you?"

A silent moment of contemplation, as Zuko went over the various times he had felt someone watching him. Male and female. "I always thought." He paused, clearing his throat. "They were staring at my scar."

Laughing softly, Orora patted his arm. "Trust me Zuko. The scar and the cloak with the hood just adds to your attraction."

"It does?" He asked, sounding so hopeful that Orora almost held back on teasing him about something she knew he wouldn't like. Of course, she wasn't that nice.

"Trust me. It does. Makes you look all mysterious and dangerous." She could feel him swell with pride at the compliments.

"Though that would all go away the moment you open your mouth and they realize you're nothing but a big awkward softie." She added, laughing at his loud protest.

                                          ————————–

........,lighthearted banter.....

"A big awkward softie? Really? Is that how you would describe me?" Zuko asked, a little annoyed at the description his girlfriend was sticking him with. Orora, chewing on a candied moon peach, raised an eyebrow. "What you prefer I describe you Prince Pouty? Because I can do that."

Growling, Zuko reached out to grab the bag of treats from her, only to have her twirl out of the way. She grinned, stuffing two candied moon peaches in her mouth just to goad him further.

"Hand over the bag Orora." Zuko all but demanded, his own bag of fire flakes forgotten as he took a threatening step in her direction. Orora, not at all daunted by his otherwise intimidating act, continued to chew. "And if I don't?" She asked, her body tensing slightly, ready to take off should Zuko try to surprise her. Not in the mood to make a witty comeback, Zuko stuck with the tried and true.

"Then I'll make you." He growled, and the effect would have been scary, if it weren't for the grumpy expression on his face that normally a child would get for being denied their favorite treat. "You want these?" Orora taunted, holding the bag up. How she managed to speak with the sticky candies in her mouth, Zuko had no idea.

"Come and get them then."

                                          ————————–

.........,impromptu dancing sessions.........

Whatever semblance of control Zuko had broke.

His hand darted out, only to be met with empty air as Orora, once again, simply twirled out of the way. "Dancing on the first date?" The girl pretended to swoon as she skipped away to put a little distance between herself and her boyfriend. "A boy after my own heart."

A smile threatened to overtake his face, and despite his best efforts to not let her words and antics get to her, Zuko couldn't help but laugh softly. Hearing him Orora felt some strange softness envelope her heart, and the urge to hear the sound again had her blinking in sudden surprise.

Which was all the chance Zuko needed to grab her again.

                                          ————————–

...........,playfulness...........

"Eeepp!" She squealed, the moment his fingers dug into her stomach. Squirming out of his hold, and nearly elbowing him in the chest, Orora scrambled to put some distance between the two of them.

Rubbing his chest slightly, Zuko gave her a bemused look. "I barely touched you." He protested, to which she shook her head. "I know. I'm just really ticklish." She admitted.

Zuko was never one to express himself physically when it came to what he was feeling. In their early days of travel, Orora had learned to read his eyes, because that was where she was able to discern what exactly he was feeling.

She'd seen his eyes light up with every emotion under the sun, except one.

Mischievousness.

One that she was the target of as he wiggled his fingers as if in preparation. "No!' She squeaked even as Zuko began to approach her. Like a cornered animal, Orora began to back away, clutching the candy bag to her chest. "Don't you dare Zuko." The girl warned, holding a finger out to emphasize her point. He only grinned, one that promised revenge.

"Oh but I will dare Orora." He responded, raising his arms as if he were a monster sent to capture her.

In her eyes, at that moment, he was one.

It only took Zuko a few seconds to wrap his arms around her once again. The momentum of his speed had the two teenagers falling to the soft sandy ground.

Orora had made her way to the beach as she tried to escape.

The girl wiggled, trying to get away but Zuko wasn't having it. He held on fast and dug his fingers into her sides as he began to tickle her. Orora's shouts of protest turned to loud laughter, the two bags of treats laying forgotten on the sand as she tried to push his hands away.

"Zu-hahaha-Zuk-Stop-hahahahahaha-St-hahahaha-it! She managed to gasp out in between her giggles. Not one to let an opportunity go to waste, Zuko was quick to bargain. "Take back what you said about me being a softie." He said, a strange glow of happiness he had hardly ever felt before, warming his chest as he watched his Soulmate try to escape his clutches.

Somehow, Orora managed to gasp out exactly what he wanted to hear. His fingers ceased their relentless attack on her abdomen, but he didn't pull back from where he still had her trapped underneath him. Catching her breath, Orora grinned up at him.

                                          ————————–

.........,flirtatious comments.........

Only for the moment to stretch on as they continued to simply look at one another.

While the moment they had shared at the beach yesterday had been charged and tense, this one was the exact opposite. Moments of calm were rare for Zuko, and yet he found they were easy to come by when he was with Orora.

Smiling softly, the girl tilted her head, gazing up at him with just as tenderness and affection. Affection that was so hard to come by. "Why're you looking at me like that?" She asked, her voice slightly hoarse from having been laughing so hard just moments ago.

He shook his head. His hood had fallen off during their little scuffle, allowing her to see his face not hidden within the shadows. "Just.......wandering what it would be like to kiss you again." The smile remained on her lips, yet she averted her gaze as a blush rose to her cheeks. Slowly she pushed herself up so that she was sitting, though Zuko remained stretched along her legs, looking up at her.

"Why don't you just do it and find out?" She asked, raising her hand to gently brush away the hair that covered his forehead. All so she could see his eyes properly. If she were honest, Orora would never tire of meeting his warm gaze.

He shook his head, adjusting himself so that he was lying to the side, with his head in her lap. "Not yet." He said, looking up at her and enjoying the pleased look she wore at his change in position. "I'm waiting for the right moment."

Humming under her breath, Orora began to run her fingers through his hair, enjoying the way the surprisingly soft strands felt against her skin. "And when do you know it would be the right moment?" She asked, to which Zuko shrugged. "I don't know. But I'll know when it comes."

Laughing softly, the girl shook her head. "Who would've known you would be such a romantic Zuko." Honestly she was beginning to see this as the norm for him. This was a Zuko only she saw and no one else. And truthfully? She was a little possessive about this Zuko, wanting him all for herself.

Selfish? Maybe. But then the way she was with him, unsure, shy and uncertain, was definitely not how she portrayed herself to the world.

"And is there something wrong with wanting to have the perfect kiss with the perfect girl?" He asked, knowing the compliment would throw Orora off a little. And it did, he mused, as he watched her roll her eyes at him, the blush obvious on her cheeks as she playfully flicked his nose.

"Alright, now I know you're just fishing for compliments."

                                          ————————–

..........,stolen kisses..........

Their little refuge on the beach was surrounded by rocks cropping from the soft sand. One of which Orora was leaning against as she smiled down at Zuko.

From where he had his head in her lap, Zuko's eyes traced along the lines of the scar that ran along her abdomen.

He had always thought her claim a little strange, that his scar did not make him who he was. That he did not have to mirror what was outside from within. She had allowed that to happen at one point, and had nearly lost herself. But she had recovered from it. Over the time they had been reunited, Zuko had begun to see that she had been right all along. She had her own scars, those that ran deeper within rather then the physical scars that marred her skin.

And just as she had done, as he had promised himself during those lonely months living in the Fire Nation, he would not allow them to define him.

She found his scar beautiful. Had said so multiple times.

Had kissed............his......scar.

A sudden need rose within him.

A need that had the young Firebender raising his head briefly, and placing his lips against her scar in a lingering yet gentle kiss. Above him Orora tensed, eyes widening as she stared down at him, lips parted in surprise.

                                          ————————–

..........,loving gestures.........

Looking up, Zuko smiled at the sight of her looking so surprised, and yet he caught a glimpse of joy and wonderment in her pretty blue eyes. He reached up to lovingly brush his knuckles against the softness of her cheek.

He always liked seeing the contrast of his skin against her own. She gave him a tender smile, one that never failed to have his heart skipping a beat.

"You're always kissing my scar." He spoke softly as he cupped her face. "I thought I should return the favor."

Her eyes shone with unshed tears. Hopefully tears of joy, he presumed, watching her as she moved her head to kiss his palm before reaching up and covering his hand with her own.

"Can you hold me?" She spoke, her voice soft but not unsure, wanting to feel him near her.

Nearer then he already was.

                                          ————————–

...........and quiet moments.

The question had barely made it past her lips when Zuko was sitting up, and leaning back against the rock beside her. His arm came around her shoulders, pulling her to his side, with Orora moving to tangle their legs together. She wound her arm across his front, her hand resting on the opposite shoulder as she rested her head just below his neck.

Zuko placed his chin on her head, the scent of her hair enveloping his senses, prompting him to drop a kiss to her head, just so he would have the chance to bury his nose in her hair.

With his other arm wrapped around her waist, the two of them turned their gaze towards the crashing waves across the beach. Their hearts beat in tandem, calm and at peace.

So at peace in fact that they both fell asleep simply holding one another like that.

                                            ————————–

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[sijssjsbssjsnsnnskbskwns]

Poly!Fruity Five X Reader (Steve Harrington X Eddie Munson X Robin Buckley X Nancy Wheeler X Jonathan Byers) idea’s for you!

STEVE HARRINGTON X EDDIE MUNSON X ROBIN BUCKLEY X NANCY WHEELER X JONATHAN BYERS X READER

Fruity Five X Captain Marvel!Reader

Fruity Five X Wednesday!Reader (inspired by the Jenna Ortega version)

Fruity Five X Catwomen!Reader (inspired by the Hallie berry version)

Fruity Five X Harley Quinn!Reader

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Fruity Five X Yandere!Reader

Fruity Five X Pyrokinesis!Reader (you can make manipulate and control purple fire)

Fruity Five X Hydrokinesis!Reader (inspired by Aang from the last Airbender)

Fruity Five X Chororkinesis!Reader

Fruity Five X Electrokinesis!Reader

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Fruity Five X Vampire!Reader (inspired by Abigail from Abigail 2024)

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Fruity Five X Russian!Reader (you don’t speak English but you understand it, you only speak Russian)

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(A/N: Hello! Hope you loved this post if you did make sure to go see my other posts it’s recommended!, Hope this was inspiring for you and if you want more inspiration go see my other posts YOUR WELCOME!! :)

(A/N: Hi also made versions of y/n you can use with these ideas that’s why I said: “.make sure to go see to go see my other posts it’s recommended!.” I made y/n au’s profiles so you can get inspiration for what y/n might look like in the X readers YOUR WELCOME! :)

[roriaa]

When Sun and Moon meet - S2

Zuko x Fem!WaterBender!Reader Enemies to lovers

As one of the Princesses of the Northern Water tribe, you were blessed with a gift by the moon. However you were permitted to be allowed to use the gift at all costs. From many hidden waterbending usages, the aftermath of the avatar visiting the Northern Tribe had led to your beginning journey, hiding yourself as a water bender as a princess from the Northern water tribe

Warnings: fighting

Masterlist

҉ * ‧͙ ⋆ ⁺ ༓ ☾ Chapter 9 - Tied with the Gaang

I woke up to wind breezing through my hair and a cloudy sky in front of me. Is this another dream? I lifted myself up only to see Katara with her eyes widened. “Y/N!” She hugged me, I confusingly hugged her back making the three look back at us. I recognize two of the three. Aang and Sokka but there was a short girl who appeared to be blind. She wore a green outfit which makes me think she's part of the earth kingdom. “Where…am I?” I asked Katara, pulling back. “We saw you in Lake Laogai, we thought you must've drowned, '' Katara explained. I attempted to recall the moment from yesterday but my brain was still fuzzy. “We saw the chain cuffs around your wrist. What in the world happened to you?” Sokka asked as I tried to put the pieces back together. I remember now…It was a miserable moment. I felt so embarrassed now, my horrible attempt at making everyone happy was the cause of me here. I feel the wave of Deja Vu, this isn't the first time I passed out just to wake up to a flying bison. “I don't remember” I mumbled, lying. Katara nodded and looked at the earthbender “You might not know her but her name is Toph, and earth bender” she pointed at Toph. “Toph, this is Y/N” Katara introduced us as we both awkwardly waved to one another.

“We’re about to land” Aang announced and the next second, we landed on an island.

  ҉   ☾

“When did you guys find Appa?” I asked. “How did you know Appa was gone?” Katara questioned as I shrugged. “I saw plenty of missing posters around Ba Sing Se so I assume so”. 

“Look we escaped from the Dai Li, we got Appa back, i'm telling you we should go to the Earth king now and tell him our plan! We’re on a roll”. 

“One good hour after weeks of trouble isn't much of a roll” Katara retorted, moving her hand to rest on her waist. “We can build on it!” Sokka added “What plan are you guys talking about?” I questioned. “The Earth King has no idea that there is a war going on, is getting manipulated but this scary guy and we need him to assist us in the invasion on the eclipse” Sokka explained. I nodded warily, still confused about the manipulation and invasion. “What makes you think we’ll get his support?” Toph asked. “I don't know if you've noticed but things don't usually go that smoothly for our little gang”. They continued discussing whether or not to leave Ba Sing Se or to make peace with the earth king. I was still lost on what they were talking about, I assume they were connected to the attack I had to experience in lake laogai. “But now that we have Appa back there's nothing stopping us from telling the Earth king the truth” Aang flew down from Appa. “See Aang's with me!” Sokka hugged Aang. “Would they even believe you?” I asked curiously. “We just have to try,” Sokka responded. “Well…I guess if the Earth king knew the truth, things could change” Katara put her hand on her chin, leaning towards their plan. “I don't trust the new Sokka, Long Feng brainwashed you! Didn't he?” The earth bender accusingly pointed at Sokka. Us 5 turn around and see the Dai Lee’s ships. “That's the Dai Lee’s ships” I learned to take a closer look. “They’re probably looking for us! So?” Sokka turned for Katara's confirmation. Katara thought for just a moment before agreeing. “Let's fly.”

  ҉   ☾

“Can we please buy a new saddle? Riding bareback is terrifying!” Toph exclaimed “What even happened to the saddle?” I grip onto Appas coat, squinting my eyes from the impact of the wind. “Long story” Sokka said, hard to make out from the wind. “There it is, the whole thing is the palace, '' Sokka pointed. I maneuver my head to take a better look of the palace. “The earth king's chamber should be at the center.” 

“We have to be careful Long Feng probably has warned the kingdom we’re coming” Katara warned

“Why would you assume that?” Sokka questioned

“Why would we not assume that” I retorted “If you ask me, I think we’re just gonna sail rig-” Sokka’s sentence cut off from his own scream from a rock that barely missed us. “What was that?!” Toph yelled out. “Surface to air rocks! More incoming!” I attempted to take a better look at where the surface rocks were coming from, it seems like this place is heavily guarded. I felt the impact of some of the rocks almost hitting us, my heart racing in the process of almost getting hit many times. Aang jumps down to blow away several guards, by the time he was finished Appa landed which was our que to jump down. The guards were lined up on the side, not a single space in between. I pulled out water from the bottle, pulled their legs and threw them as far as I could. Katara used a more gentler approach yelling out sorry’s many times. Somewhat made me feel like I was the bad cop but oh well. Toph was able to topple many guards over by rock slabs, allowing us to make our way closer to the palace. Katara went first across the bridge, me following behind her. She was able to push all the guards in the water under the bridge which enabled me to ice the water keeping them stuck. I jumped over the river making my way towards the long range of stairs. More guards appeared, charging at us down the stairs. However Toph was able to turn the stairs into slabs making them slide down. A block carved out beneath us was able to escort us up the slabs, letting us have a clear view of all the soldiers falling which was quite funny. “Seriously, we’re actually on your guys side!” Sokka yelled, as if that's going to change their minds. He winced looking down at the soldiers falling “Sorry…” We managed to get in the building with Toph’s and Aang’s major support with earth bending. “Toph! Which way to the earth king?” Sokka asked looking around “How should I know? I'm still voting we leave Ba Sing Se” Toph retorted, pushing away the guards. “Sokka, you look at that side while I look at the other” I pointed to the other side as Sokka nodded, both of us splitting ways. After the defeat of the guards, behind the mess there was a huge door which screams royalty. “The king is definitely in there” I pointed behind the mess. “Now that's an impressive door” Sokka ran towards the door attempting to kick it open but to no avail. Aang helped with his airbending and was able to break down the door, making Sokka fly through. “A little warning next time!”

We ran towards the king, with our weapons drawn out. Even with everything going on, I still don't understand. I also don't understand how I managed to even get in this position. “We need to talk to you!” Aang spoke up. “They’re here to overthrow you” The guy, with the same mustache, hair and deep voice. My eyes widened, that was the same guy who attempted to trap me in the underwater…thing? “No! We’re on your side. We’re here to help.” Sokka attempted to convince the king. “You have to trust us.” Katara added. “You invade my palace, lay waste to all my guards, break down my fancy door, and you expect me to trust you?” The Earth king spat. “He has a good point,” Toph agreed. I shrugged “Your guards didn't even try to hear us out.”

“If you’re on my side, then drop your weapons and stand down”. The king said out loud. I hesitated and looked around seeing the others doing the same thing. Silently agreeing to drop our weapons once Aang did it first. “See, we’re friends, your earthiness” Aang held his hands up in defense, awkwardly chuckling. I internally face palmed at what he said, ‘Earthiness’? Seriously? My thoughts were put in a halt by the earth benders handcuffing our hands by their earth bending. “Hey we dropped our weapons!” I spat. “Detain the assailants” He ordered, the guards slid in and surrounded us, every gap covered. I grumble in irritation. “We’re your allies!” Sokka tried to convince the king.

“Make sure the Avatar and his friends never see daylight again” The king turned his head towards his assistant in shock. “The Avatar? You’re the Avatar?” He pointed towards Sokka in disbelief. Sokka deadpanned “Uh, no, him” He pointed to Aang with his head. “Over here!” Aang joyfully said as if he wasn't getting arrested, the rocks which were supposed to be cuffed around him floated around his hands once he raised his arms, locking back down when he put his arms back around his back. 

“What does it matter, your highness? They’re enemies of the state”

“Perhaps you're right…” No longer, a bear came feeling interested in Aang, happily licking him as he giggled. “Though Bosco seems to like him. I’ll hear what he has to say” The King said, making Long Feng glare in irritation. Aang goes on explaining what has been going on for 100 years, which is unbelievable that he even had to explain it. After trying to convince the king that we’re on his side, to the point we had to bring Appa out to prove a point he agreed to looking into the matters. Which made all of our previous disappointment into an awkward contentment.

“Dai Li, arrest Long Feng. I want him to stand trial for crimes against the Earth Kingdom” The Earth King announced to his guards, taking Long Feng away. Finally, after much effort we managed to prove our innocence and our rights. Going to a public transport train only to find the underground base destroyed, then riding on Appa anxiously without a saddle to see the drill that the fire nation drilled into the walls of Ba Sing Se. I was even shocked myself not knowing any of this, it must have been Zuko’s doing. I was stupid enough to give him the benefit of the doubt for some reason. “Looks like Long Feng is Long gone Ha!” Sokka joked wiping his invisible tears humoredly “Oh, yeah, I've been waitin’ to use that one”

  ҉   ☾

After officially getting the Earth Kings support in the invasion, we went to Long Feng’s previous office who had been holding letters from everyone out of Ba Sing Se. I wasn't expecting a letter till I heard my name called “Princess Y/N”. I flinched hearing my name and hesitantly grabbing the scroll. I unrolled it immediately checking who it was from…it was from my father.

Dear Y/N,

This letter is not just from your Father and Sivoy but from the whole Nother Water tribe. We dearly miss you in the water tribe however we love you enough to accept whatever you do. Everything in the northern water tribe is perfectly fine, don't worry about us. We planned to help our sister tribe which I know you’ll be happy to hear. We wish you a peaceful, happy and safe adventure Princess Y/N and everyone in the tribe appreciates you very much, make sure you come back safe and once you do we’ll hold a memorable feast. Whatever you do Y/N, don't give up.

From Father, Sivoy, Northern water tribe.

I smiled softly from the letter, I wouldn't have ever received it if I had drowned. Spirits…how immature I am, leaving the whole tribe in guilt. I couldn't even imagine it, nor do I want to. Luckily I finally retrieved this letter which was very difficult and I was thoroughly satisfied. However the last sentence gave me chills down my spine, I swear I have heard it before… Oh well, I'll focus on it later. 

“Y/N who is it from?” Katara asked as I smiled joyfully. “My family” 

  ҉   ☾

“I’ll stay with Katara in Ba Sing Se” I said, planning to join Katara. “Are you sure? Don’t you want to see your family in the Northern water tribe?” Aang asked as I shook my head. “I'm not ready, I’ll for sure see them another day” I smiled. Katara hugged me “I have another girl to join me!” she squealed “No offense Toph” She said sheepishly. “None taken” Toph put his hands up as I chuckled. 

“I’m really gonna miss you guys” Toph said sadly.

“Me too” “Yeah”

Katara and Aang embraced Toph in a hug. Sokka and I stood aside awkwardly. I havent met them long enough to consider me as a friend. Until I felt a warm embrace squishing me into a hug. “Great! That's enough! Okayyy we love each other” He patted Katara and Aang’s head. I laughed breathily and embraced them back. “Y/N you're planning to come with us on our journey right?” Katara asked. I felt a silent plea with all of them making it harder to say no. “If you guys want…i'll come along” I said, making them cheer and laugh in glee. Katara, Toph and I waved off Sokka, Aang and Appa on their journey. I silently wished they would come back safely. “Get back safe Toph” Katara and I said out loud waving to Toph who was leaving. “I will!” Toph yelled back, waving. “Let's go back to the Earth Palace, they want us there” Katara said, initiating me to follow which I did. However I felt a wave of uneasiness hit me, is everything going to be alright?

<- Back - Next ->

a/n: WOOO new chapter! Yesterday was my birthday so I was plannig on posting it I just wanted to celebrate my birthday. Hope yall enjoy this chapter, I know there is like no zuko but I promise he will come, I just wanted the character to be part of the adventure instead of just plotting them down Take care of yourself nad have a nice day :)

--

taglist: @luvkvni @katovano @karmaswitch @someonesmember @velvet-spider @sh3sa1dwhat @nerdisthenewcool @meiraloves2dmen @fqnfics101 @iluvme547 @leaderwon @yukihatesreoyo @heart4hees @4l3x1s @kkissaku @corpsebridenightamare @newjellis @fatkish@pbeckn26@jasminesacademia @kyo-kyo1

[beifong-brainrot]

While I feel like Satoru is the likelier fit for being Suyin's dad, the theory that it's Sun has a special place in my heart purely due to how wonderfully it would fit in with weilin.

His background is quite similar to Bolin's and his relationship to Toph is really cute from what I've skimmed. But the idea of Wei's grandfather being a lavabender and him also falling for a lavabender does tickle my fancy.

It would also be fun with how many direct paralels I notice between how Toph was raised and how her grandchildren were.

[drunknillawafer]

right down the line: zuko x firebender!reader (part 10)

You grew up close to the Royal Family due to your father's position as a General, but you ran away from home after the agni kai against your best friend, Zuko. Now, you've joined the Gaang and plan on doing your part in ending the 100-year war.

Part 9 Part 11

hello!!! omg yall i've been waiting for this era... oh we're really getting into it now! sorry for the sokka lovers... it was so hard to write this one but it must be done! hopefully u guys like it, as always plz give any feedback by liking, reblogging, commenting, it means so much! thanks if you've read this far hehe... also thinking of another fic... but probably won't start that one until I'm done w this one... i don't own these characters or the atla world & it's about 2200 words, enjoy!

⁺˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚⁺‧͙⁺˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚⁺‧͙⁺˚*•̩̩͙✩•̩̩͙*˚⁺‧͙

It’s been a few days since we all made it out of the desert. How we did it, I’m not sure. But I’m just grateful to finally be out.

The emptiness of the desert is different than the vastness of the North Pole. There’s no water around to soak and all our abilities become useless. The sun and seemingly endless surroundings beat us. No one could do a thing.

We were nothing without Appa. We are nothing without Appa.

With the revelation of the eclipse and rumors about our furry friend’s whereabouts, the five of us were on our way to Ba Sing Se. Hopefully, it would bring some comfort to Aang. The last shred of stability he was standing on was muzzled in the desert, and his pain since has been impossible to ignore. The one thing he brought from home is currently lost somewhere on Earth. How would any of us begin to understand?

\Katara can’t reach him. Sokka, Toph, and I don’t even want to try. For now, being en route to the infamous well-protected capital of the Earth Kingdom would be enough.

I’ve never been. Most of what the Fire Nation educated us on was about how we could manage to tear down the walls and go inside. It was a requirement to tell the story about the Dragon of the West, or Iroh, and his deemed ‘failure.’

Knowing what I know now of the old man’s heart and philosophy, it wasn’t a failure at all. It was a cry for mercy to the world so they could possibly forgive us for wreaking so much havoc. The tiny evidence that kindness still exists in our nation.

The train station itself is already a drastic change from the other Earth Kingdom villages I’ve visited. A well-built stone structure with a developed railway system and guards at every checkpoint. Ba Sing Se mostly kept to themselves, but I could tell from standing in these walls that it would be enormous and far more evolved in comparison.

After Toph saved us from the grouchy woman handing out tickets, we made our way to our designated cart.

For a single moment, it felt like the old times. We had something to do, somewhere to go, and a goal to achieve. Our banter started to return, but Aang’s hesitation for anything about hope could be felt by people halfway across the world. We were as normal as we could be, at least.

“Ah!” I hear Sokka yelp from behind me. All of us turn around to an Earth Kingdom guard. What now?

Menacingly, she grabs him by his collar and begins to point at his chest. “Tickets and passports, please.”

Katara and I share glances of concern, then we both get in defense mode. Protectively, I rest one hand on my sword. Silently, I beg for this to blow over. I don’t think anyone is in the mood to fight.

“Is there a problem?” The boy in blue asks the stranger.

“Yeah, I got a problem with you. You probably think you’re a big shot, huh?” The girl continues. “Let me guess, you’re traveling with the Avatar.” Have they met before? She didn’t look at Sokka like he was a stranger, but a well-known fool.

Sokka finally asks, “Do I know you?”

“You don’t remember me? Figures. Well, let me help you.” She grabs his collar again and plants a big, confident kiss on his cheek. This makes the blood rush to Sokka’s face, and he gleams.

“Suki!” He exasperates and hugs her. Katara lowers her defenses, but my hand is firmly planted on my sword. My body isn’t letting me relax and I don’t know why.

Awkwardly though, I try to make my presence known. “Um.” Is about all I can stumble out. The bubble in my throat is making it hard to sound anything but dazed and confused.

The boy in blue turns around to me as if he’s forgotten I was there at all. Don’t let it hurt; I tell myself. At least not yet. Be cool, calm, and collected. Everything the Fire Nation is known for, right?

Sokka pulls away from… Suki to face me. “Oh!” He realizes once his eyes land on mine. I’ve never seen this version of him before and it’s quickly my least favorite.

Suki stands in the same awkward place I am in, glancing between the both of us to connect any dots she’s missing.

Sokka turns his head back and forth, trying to come up with something to say. The words don’t seem to be settling in for him. “Suki! This is Y/N. We picked her up a while back. After Kyoshi Island.” Kyoshi Island had only briefly been mentioned among the five of us. Now I know why. I guess he does this everywhere Appa used to take him. The next words fall out of his mouth slowly, like a slap in the face I was desperately trying to avoid. “We’re friends.”

Sometimes when your heart breaks just the right amount, your body has no choice but to smile. The smile spreading across your face is the only thing keeping you together, like a band aid patching up a crack in a dam. It doesn’t do much for the dam, but it makes everyone else feel better.

Kindly, she greets me. “Hi! I’m Suki. I’m a Kyoshi Warrior, it’s so nice to meet you!” It doesn’t help that she doesn’t know. I can’t hate her, she’s too kind to hate. Too oblivious to see the pain I’m in.

How would she know about us if they haven’t seen each other since then?

Another logical reasoning that should make the upset, hurt, and worry go away. But it doesn’t. This is when I know the knot in my chest is not going to leave so easily.

I replay everything from the moment I jumped off of the crimson trees. When I spotted him, when he saw me. The handshake that confirmed the future, saving the village. The Northern Water Tribe. All of that came after her. I was just the second one to take his words as a promise.

Sokka can’t meet my eye right now. He can only let out a nervous laugh and rub the back of his neck.

On cue, “Avatar Aang. We need your help!” We turn our heads to the cry for assistance, successfully interrupting an impossible situation for the boy in blue.

☆

It wasn’t enough for the universe to make me realize that I’m in second place. It also had to force me to cross Serpent’s Pass with the one who got first place.

Logically, it’s better that we have her around. She’s a strong fighter, better than Sokka actually. It would help our odds. But part of me wished the grouchy lady had simply let us on the train.

The people of the Earth Kingdom, I have come to know, are set in their ways and I’m not getting out of this one.

I don’t know why it bothered me so much. It’s not like he’s wrong. We are friends. But I thought we were more. He sure acts like it everywhere else besides in front of her.

It’s difficult not to let it get to you. Let it consume you and dictate everything you’ve known about yourself to be true. Everything I had experienced with him was after. I would never make him feel the way she did, and I could feel it.

I haven’t spoken a single word to him since we left the train station, and he hasn’t noticed. He’s more concerned about Suki and her being here.

I’ve never known what it’s like for Sokka to not choose me.

For the night, we decided to sleep on a safe part of the Serpent’s Pass and attempt to walk in the daytime. Before the rocks disappear into the ocean, there’s a slab big enough for everyone and the refugees to camp. There’s also enough space to avoid them.

In this secluded area I’ve managed to find, where no one can see my true feelings, I find myself with nothing to do but think. Sitting on a rock I’m using as a bench, I look up at Yue as she’s planted in the sky, grazing us with her light.

I take a deep breath in and let the waves wash over me. The only sound is the water crashing into the rock. I try to not think about tomorrow, but right now. Here, I could wear the humiliation on my face with no one to hide it from.

When did I let Sokka have this much power over me? When did he manage to get under my skin?

It feels odd; to feel pain over something new. The last few years have been nothing but torture, but at least I’d gotten used to it.

This one. This is surprising and fragile all in one. If you had told me a few weeks ago that I’d be here, sitting and moping about Sokka, I wouldn’t have believed you. But here I am. With only myself to blame for letting my guard down.

I knew better, but I still did it. I let myself believe someone I cared about wouldn’t hurt me. Didn’t I learn my lesson last time?

It bites.

Suddenly, I hear footsteps against the pavement and I’m hoping I’m hallucinating them. No cactus juice, only me. But I’m not.

In front of me, Sokka finds my secluded safe space and I can’t find my smile band aid. There’s only a frown ready for him, but he’s not surprised. He’s come here to talk about something.

“So.” I begin. He sits down on the space available on the rock, next to me, shoulder-to-shoulder. I could feel his warmth flow through my body from this light touch. It’s still comforting to have him nearby.

“Yeah?” He questions. Sokka looks at me, and the moon is shining his face beautifully. It almost hypnotizes me, but then I remember.

“Suki.” Obviously.  

“Yeah.” This time I can hear the pain in his voice. It’s a tough conversation, but we owe it to each other.

“Was I just the second?”

“What? No. Why would you say that?”

“It’s how it looks. You said we were friends.” ‘Friends’ comes out of my mouth like its venom, a poison. A bad word.

“You wanted to be friends.”

“Yeah, but—”

“I don’t get you; you know.” Sokka stands, frustrated. “You’re confusing. You say you like me, but you don’t want to be my girlfriend.”

I shrug my shoulders. “It’s complicated.”

“Why?”

“Because it is!”

He zeroes in on his question. “No. Why, Y/N?”

“What do you mean?”

“I know.”

“Know what?”

“It’s complicated because of Zuko.”

Sokka almost knocks the wind out of me when his name hangs in the air. With all the might in my body, I am trying to hold the tears back. Why is he saying this?

“No, it’s not!”

“Then why couldn’t you say anything after the Northern Water Tribe? Why don’t you want to be with me?”

“I don’t know!” I sound like a child with nothing but empty replies.

“Yes, you do. And I’ve been here, waiting for you… But seeing Suki… it brought up a bunch of feelings.” Sokka sighs. “Aren’t I allowed to be confused?”

I’m trying. I’m trying more than anything to be more than where I come from. To be more than my roots and anger and pain and continuing the cycle. I don’t want to spew out venom, I want to be kind. But sometimes, I don’t do that well of a job.

“I’ll make it easier for you then.” I stand to look at him in the eye. “Don’t count me in as an option.”

“Y/N—”

But I’ve walked away before I could hear anything.

☆

Gently, Sokka pulls Suki away from him, separating their lips. He glances around to see if Y/N was near, she’s not. She didn’t see the kiss.  

It’s been an odd day for him.

He was already on edge with Suki joining them for Serpent’s Pass. He didn’t want anyone else he loved to be in danger. It was enough to worry about Katara, Y/N, Toph, Aang, and Appa all the time.

He knew it wasn’t realistic, but he couldn’t help it. Sokka had been this way his whole life. The need to keep everyone safe had been instilled in him since his mother died and his father left.

He could tell Y/N was upset with him from the moment he saw her face, and as much as it hurt him greatly to argue, it all had to come spilling out. For both of their sakes.

Sokka didn’t know until that moment that Zuko bothered him so much. The idea that Y/N was choosing between the both of them angered him. The universe is funny, though. It reunited him with Suki, and now he’s faced with the same problem.

But Y/N isn’t him, she won’t wait. She’s too grand. And he won’t make her. It’s over before it had a chance to begin.

He’s already hurt her.

Sokka’s sure she’d find some way to get him back, though. It was one of her best traits. The need to make everything fair. The fire inside of her never died out.

It wasn’t the kind of fire that terrorized villages and separated families, but the kind that keeps you warm in the coldest of places.

Now, he needed to deal with the girl in front of him, and he had no idea what to do.

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

tag list <3: @camilleverreault @staygoldsquatchling02 @yunloyal @lily-ann-b <3!

[zvtara-was-never-canon]

I recently saw someone say that ZK should be together because they challenge each other and I was like "When did that happen again?".

The only person that constantly challenges Zuko is Iroh, he was the one trying to steer him to the right direction from the start. The only member of the Gaang that actually tried to do the same is Aang, S1E13 when he asked him if they could be friends in another time. Zuko even remembers that half a year later. Katara didn't give shit about him. She offered to heal him in the S2 finale but it was after she assumed that Zuko had already changed. Zuko doesn't particularly remember that as something that stirred his heart and mind, he only remembers that the water was special.

At this point, they don't even challenge each other to be a better bender. Zuko wants to be better so he can take on Aang and Katara simply wants to learn waterbending so she can fight in the war and help Aang restore balance.

After Zuko joins the Gaang, they have minimal interactions. You could say she challenges him to do better if he wants to earn her forgiveness but I don't think Katara really cared if he earned it or not. After she forgives him, she teased him once and emotionally supported him before he saw Iroh, which is something Katara does constantly to everyone (I can name 5 more instances of that just in book 3) and her healing him after defeating Azula. Zuko on his part never really challenged her. In TSR he only wanted her to forgive him, that's why he takes on that journey and is okay with her doing whatever she wants (even if that means she'll be haunted by the murder forever). Then he also takes her with him to fight Azula which... Isn't challenging her as a person either. Not to mention that between Sokka, Suki and Toph she's the best option.

So yeah... I wrote all of that to ask "When and how exactly do they challenge each other?"

"They challenge each other" is just "Sun/Moon, Fire/Water" 2.0; As someone who likes quite a ton of villain X hero/enemies to lovers ships, the "they challenge each other" thing is one of THE go-to arguments for that kind of ship, even when it makes no fucking sense. Same for "the good guy is the devil, actually."

Them NOT challenging each other in any real way is part of why I could never get into zutara as a ship. Their dynamic really did not exist before he joined the Gaang and was very clearly purely platonic. They were not around for each other during most of their hard moments or critical points in which the narrative pushed them to make difficult choices.

They were not there to pick each other when they were truly down, the most we got was Zuko taking advantage of Katara's trauma to earn quick forgiveness (though he did end up genuinely bonding with her, hence him recognizing that AANG had been right) and two seconds of her comforting him when he sees Azula's breakdown. Katara's true moment of glory is being reunited with her family, while Zuko's is becoming Fire Lord, aka when they're away from each other.

They're in the same friend group, care about each other, and will hang out if they're around the same area. That's it. Nothing anywhere near the level of "We pushed each other to grow and change as people" like Zutarians pretend, because they weren't around for 95% of each other's arcs.

[zzukowo]

I just killed a man, she’s my alibi <3 (27th September 2024)

Zuko x Reader

Prompt! Everyone’s favorite trope, enemies to lovers!

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the battlefield as the sounds of clashing elements began to fade. Zuko stood at the edge of the clearing, his breath ragged and his muscles tense as he scanned the area for any lingering members of the Avatar’s group. The fight had been another stalemate, neither side truly gaining ground, but something felt different this time—something he couldn’t quite place.

He wiped the sweat from his brow, trying to shake off the strange feeling gnawing at him. But then, his eyes fell on her.

Y/N, the princess from the other Water Tribe.

She had joined the Avatar’s group only a few weeks prior, and though Zuko had fought them countless times before, her presence had thrown him off balance ever since. Her fluid movements as she bent water were as graceful as they were powerful, and there was a strength in her that intrigued him, though he would never admit it.

Zuko’s gaze followed her as she skillfully deflected a few firebending blasts with ease, her face calm and focused despite the chaos around her. But then, out of nowhere, a blast of fire—hotter and more dangerous than the rest—came hurtling toward her.

Before Zuko even had time to think, his body moved on instinct.

He lunged forward, his feet carrying him across the battlefield faster than he thought possible. With a sweeping motion of his arms, he redirected the fire away from her, sending it into the sky where it dissipated harmlessly.

Y/N stumbled back, her eyes wide in shock as she looked at him. “Zuko…?”

The surprise in her voice mirrored the confusion swirling in his mind. He stood there, frozen for a moment, realizing what he had just done. He had saved her—saved the enemy.

"Be careful," he muttered, his voice low and gruff, doing his best to hide the tremor in it. He turned quickly, not daring to meet her gaze again. “Next time, I won’t be there to save you.”

Without another word, Zuko retreated, disappearing into the forest as the fight slowly came to a close. His heart raced, his mind replaying the moment over and over again, each time making less sense.

Why had he saved her?

---

The Gaang stood dumbfounded as they watched Zuko disappear into the distance, the tension in the air thick with disbelief. Y/N still stood frozen, her mind trying to process what had just happened.

“Wait, did Zuko just save Y/N?” Sokka blurted out, his face twisted in confusion. He pointed toward the spot where Zuko had been moments before. “Zuko?”

“I think so,” Katara responded slowly, her brow furrowed as her eyes darted between Y/N and the distant forest where Zuko had vanished. “Why would he…?” Her voice trailed off, unable to comprehend Zuko’s actions.

“Because it was me or the fire,” Y/N replied, finally finding her voice. “But… yeah, I didn’t expect him to step in.”

Toph, leaning on her earthbending stance, raised an eyebrow and smirked. “Well, looks like Sparky’s got a soft spot.”

Sokka’s jaw dropped. “No way! He’s evil! There’s no way he’d help Y/N unless he’s planning something!”

Aang scratched the back of his head, still wide-eyed. “Maybe he’s not as bad as we thought? I mean, that was a pretty bold move for someone who supposedly hates us.”

Katara crossed her arms, her skepticism clear. “I don’t trust him. It could’ve been a trick.”

Y/N remained quiet, her gaze fixed on the direction Zuko had left. She could still feel the heat of his firebending, not as a weapon, but as a shield. His words echoed in her mind: "Be careful." It was more than just a warning. There was something else in his voice—something almost protective. But why?

Toph let out a snort. “You know, for someone who’s supposedly chasing us down, he sure seems to care about one of us not getting burned alive.”

Sokka groaned dramatically. “Oh, no. Don’t tell me Zuko has a thing for Y/N. The Fire Prince and the Water Princess? That sounds like something out of one of those awful love stories.”

Aang’s eyes lit up, and he grinned mischievously. “Actually, that’s kinda perfect! A firebender and a waterbender—a perfect balance!”

Y/N’s face flushed. “It’s not like that!”

“Sure,” Katara smirked. “But he sure risked a lot to keep you safe. Maybe he doesn’t even know how he feels.”

Sokka crossed his arms. “Oh great, now we have to deal with Fire Nation Romeo making goo-goo eyes at Y/N.”

“Please,” Y/N rolled her eyes, trying to ignore the warmth creeping up her neck. “He probably just didn’t want to accidentally kill one of us and ruin his whole ‘capture the Avatar’ plan.”

Toph laughed. “Whatever you say, Princess.”

Y/N shot her a look, but deep down, even she couldn’t ignore the strange feeling twisting in her stomach. Why did Zuko save her? She wasn’t sure, but the memory of his voice, gruff but concerned, lingered in her mind longer than she wanted it to.

---

Later that night, Zuko sat beside a small fire in their camp, his eyes trained on the flickering flames as if they held the answers to his confusion. His mind was a storm of conflicting thoughts, none of which he wanted to face.

From across the fire, Uncle Iroh quietly observed him, sipping from a small cup of tea. The silence between them stretched on for several long minutes before Iroh finally spoke.

“You seem troubled, Prince Zuko.”

Zuko glanced up, startled, then quickly looked away. “I’m fine,” he muttered, though the tension in his voice betrayed him.

Iroh chuckled softly. “Ah, I see. So you often sit by the fire looking as though the world is weighing down on your shoulders when everything is ‘fine’?”

Zuko gritted his teeth, the heat of embarrassment rising to his face. His uncle always had a way of seeing right through him. “It’s nothing,” he said again, though his mind was still on Y/N—on the way she had looked at him when he saved her, the shock in her eyes.

Iroh sipped his tea again, his eyes twinkling with knowing amusement. “Was it nothing when you saved the Water Tribe princess today?”

Zuko’s heart skipped a beat, his gaze snapping to his uncle. “You saw that?”

“Of course,” Iroh said, his smile soft but all too wise. “It was quite the unexpected moment, I must say.”

Zuko’s jaw tightened. “It didn’t mean anything,” he said quickly, almost defensively. “I wasn’t thinking. It just… happened.”

“Ah, yes,” Iroh nodded sagely. “Sometimes, the heart acts before the mind can catch up. A natural instinct, wouldn’t you say?”

Zuko scowled, crossing his arms over his chest. “I don’t have feelings for her,” he snapped, his voice a little too sharp for his liking. “She’s the enemy. I was just… caught up in the moment.”

Iroh chuckled again, his eyes warm with understanding. “Perhaps, Zuko, your heart is beginning to change. Not everything is as black and white as it seems. Enemies today may not always be enemies tomorrow.”

“I’m not having a change of heart,” Zuko insisted, though doubt crept into his words. “I’m still going to capture the Avatar. I haven’t changed.”

“Maybe,” Iroh mused, “or maybe it’s something else entirely.” He gave Zuko a knowing smile. “Perhaps you have a fondness for the princess? A crush, perhaps?”

Zuko’s face immediately flushed, his heart stuttering in his chest. “What? No!” He shot up from where he was sitting, glaring down at his uncle. “I don’t—! That’s ridiculous!”

But even as he said it, the thought lingered, unwelcome but persistent. Why had he saved her? Why did it matter to him? His stomach twisted in knots as he paced, trying to shake the thought away.

Iroh, as always, remained calm and collected. “There’s no need to be embarrassed, Zuko,” he said softly. “Feelings are a natural part of life. Sometimes, they come when we least expect them.”

Zuko stopped pacing, his hands balling into fists at his sides. “Even if I did feel something—which I don’t—it doesn’t matter. She’s with the Avatar. She’s on the other side.”

Iroh nodded. “True. But remember, life has a way of surprising us. You may find that the people we think of as our enemies today are not so different from us after all.”

Zuko didn’t respond, his mind still racing. He refused to believe his uncle was right. He didn’t care about Y/N. He couldn’t.

But later that night, as he lay staring up at the stars, her face haunted his thoughts. The way she had looked at him with such surprise, the warmth of her voice when she said his name—it echoed in his mind like a melody he couldn’t forget.

And despite himself, Zuko couldn’t help but wonder.

Maybe, just maybe, his uncle was right.

Later that night, Y/N sat by the campfire with the rest of the Gaang. The air was unusually quiet as they all processed what had happened earlier. Katara was stirring a pot of soup, while Sokka was poking at the fire with a stick, his brow furrowed.

Aang was the first to break the silence. “I still can’t believe it. Zuko, of all people, saved you.”

“I know, right?” Sokka chimed in, his voice dripping with disbelief. “The guy has been chasing us across the whole world, and now suddenly he decides to play the hero? What’s his angle?”

Y/N shrugged, though she could still feel the heat of Zuko’s firebending shielding her from harm. “I don’t know,” she muttered, her gaze falling to the ground. “Maybe it was just instinct. He didn’t want things to get out of control.”

Katara snorted. “That’s one way to look at it. But Zuko doesn’t do anything without a reason. There has to be something more going on.”

Toph, who was sitting on a nearby rock with her arms crossed, smirked. “Or maybe it’s a lot simpler than that. Maybe Sparky has a soft spot for our Water Princess.”

Y/N felt her face heat up immediately. “What? No way!” she sputtered, waving her hands dismissively. “That’s ridiculous. He’s just… trying to capture the Avatar like always.”

Sokka leaned in with a mischievous grin. “Or maybe Toph’s right. Maybe it’s love.”

Y/N rolled her eyes, trying to keep her voice steady despite the embarrassment creeping up her neck. “He’s our enemy, Sokka. I doubt he’s going to fall in love with me in the middle of a battle.”

Aang, ever the optimist, grinned. “Well, you know, water and fire do make a good balance. Maybe there’s something to it!”

Y/N groaned, covering her face with her hands. “Can we not? This is getting ridiculous.”

Toph let out a snicker. “Hey, I’m just saying, I’ve got a pretty good sense of people. Zuko’s definitely got some weird feelings brewing.”

Katara chimed in, her tone a mix of amusement and skepticism. “He’s probably just confused. Saving you doesn’t mean he’s suddenly turned into a good guy. But…” She shot Y/N a teasing smile. “It was kind of sweet, don’t you think?”

Before Y/N could respond, Sokka leaned back, laughing. “Oh man, if Zuko did have a crush, that’d be hilarious. Fire Prince Zuko and Princess Y/N? What a pair!”

Y/N threw a small pebble at him, though her face was still flushed. “Enough, Sokka! It was just a fight. Nothing more.”

But despite her protests, she couldn’t stop thinking about the way Zuko had looked at her—like he had genuinely been worried for her. The confusion in his eyes as he warned her to be careful… it wasn’t something she could easily forget.

---

Meanwhile, far from their camp, Zuko lay awake under the stars, staring up at the sky with his hands behind his head. His thoughts were in turmoil, replaying the day’s events over and over again. Why had he saved Y/N? Why had he put himself in danger for her, of all people?

His uncle’s words echoed in his mind. ‘Perhaps you have a fondness for the princess? A crush, perhaps?’

Zuko scowled, pushing the thought away. A crush? On her? That was ridiculous. She was part of the Avatar’s group, the enemy. There was no way he had feelings for her. He barely even knew her.

But the more he tried to convince himself, the harder it was to shake the image of her standing in front of him, looking up at him with wide, surprised eyes. The warmth of his firebending had protected her, but there had been something else—a strange feeling he couldn’t explain.

He groaned in frustration, sitting up and running a hand through his hair. What was wrong with him? Why was this bothering him so much?

“Something on your mind, nephew?” Iroh’s gentle voice broke the silence as he approached, holding two cups of tea.

Zuko flinched but tried to mask his unease. “I’m fine, Uncle,” he muttered.

Iroh sat down beside him, offering him one of the cups. “Hmm. Fine, but still awake and troubled. Would you like to talk about it?”

Zuko hesitated, staring into the fire. He didn’t want to admit what was bothering him, not even to himself. But his uncle always had a way of knowing.

“I don’t know why I saved her,” Zuko finally admitted, his voice quiet. “It just… happened.”

Iroh nodded sagely. “Sometimes, our hearts guide us before our minds can understand why.”

Zuko clenched his fists. “But she’s the enemy. I shouldn’t care about what happens to her.”

“Perhaps,” Iroh said with a knowing smile. “But it seems your heart does care, whether you want it to or not.”

Zuko frowned, his mind still a whirlwind of confusion. He didn’t know what was happening to him, but the more he thought about Y/N, the more complicated everything became.

As the Gaang sat around the campfire, the teasing didn’t show any sign of stopping. Sokka, ever the instigator, leaned back with a mischievous grin, poking the fire with a stick.

“Y’know,” he said, feigning deep thought, “maybe we’ve been going about this all wrong. We’re out here fighting the Fire Nation day after day, but what if the answer’s been right in front of us all along?”

Y/N, already exasperated from the earlier teasing, shot him a skeptical look. “What are you talking about, Sokka?”

He smirked and gestured between her and the fire in the distance where Zuko had last been seen. “A Water Princess and a Fire Prince… Maybe we could bring peace to the world if the two of you just got together. No more fighting. No more chasing. Just a royal wedding to unite the nations.”

Y/N’s face turned a deeper shade of red, and she groaned loudly, covering her face with both hands. “Sokka, that’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard.”

Aang’s eyes lit up with excitement. “Wait, that could totally work! Water and fire are opposites, but together they create balance, just like me mastering all four elements. Maybe Zuko and Y/N could be, like, the ultimate peace-bringers!”

Toph snorted, barely able to contain her laughter. “I can already see it now: Zuko and Y/N, sitting on the throne, holding hands, fighting evil together with love and unity.”

Katara giggled, clearly amused by the idea, though she tried to sound serious. “Honestly, it would be poetic. A Fire Prince and a Water Princess. Opposites attracting and all that.”

Y/N’s hands flew to her face in embarrassment. “Stop it! That is never going to happen!”

But Sokka, already sensing victory, pressed on. “Hey, you never know. Maybe Zuko’s already thinking about it. After all, he did save your life today.”

Y/N sputtered, glaring at him. “He saved me because… because… I don’t know! Maybe he didn’t want me to get hurt so he could keep chasing the Avatar!”

Sokka leaned in, eyes twinkling with amusement. “Or maybe he’s planning to chase you for another reason.”

Y/N stood up, hands on her hips, ready to retort, but she found herself at a loss for words. The others were laughing, and even she couldn’t help the small, flustered smile creeping onto her face. It was absurd—Zuko, the Fire Prince, and her? But somehow, the teasing was relentless, and a small, quiet part of her couldn’t stop replaying that moment in her head—the way Zuko had looked at her when he warned her to be careful.

As the night wore on and the campfire crackled, Y/N tried her best to ignore the teasing remarks, but the seed had been planted. The idea, ridiculous as it seemed, now lingered in her thoughts. And even though the Gaang continued to joke about the "Water Princess and Fire Prince," Y/N couldn’t help but wonder… was it really so impossible?

---

Far away, Zuko tossed and turned on his bedroll, unable to sleep. His uncle’s words about a potential crush swirled in his mind, mixing with memories of Y/N’s face—her surprised expression when he saved her, the way her waterbending flowed with such grace.

He scowled, sitting up abruptly. No, this was ridiculous. He couldn’t have feelings for her. She was the enemy. And yet…

The thought lingered, gnawing at him.

[narcissisticmf]

liberty | zuko x fem!reader

description: an argument leads zuko and y/n to unveil some untold feelings.

trigger warnings: angst, mentions of anxiety, arguing, etc. read at your own risk.

word count: 1.2k

Holding a glass container down in a babbling fresh water stream, you waited until it was filled to the brim before pulling it out. Subtle droplets of sweat dripped down along the sides of your face. The sun was hot. You pulled the container back and found yourself satisfied with the amount of water you collected for you and the group.

Standing up, you walked back towards the camp to see Aang practicing firebending with Zuko. Toph was with Sokka by the fire and Katara was gathering some edible berries from some bushes nearby the camp.

"Any luck with finding water, Y/N/N?" Sokka asked, looking over Toph's head.

"Yeah," You nodded and placed it beside Appa and Momo, where all your supplies was; sleeping bags, tents, blankets, etc.

"How's the teaching going?" You walked to stand beside Zuko as he stood watching Aang practice for a little while.

"Slowly," Zuko muttered.

"He seems to be picking it up pretty quickly though," You commented as you watched him do some fairly basic moves.

"Yes, but if Aang wants to take down my father, he has to be more than ready and basic firebending moves won't let him win," Zuko explained. You nodded and pressed your lips together softly.

"Well finish this up, we're gonna be eating in a little while," You replied and crossed your arms over your chest before walking away towards the fire.

.

While you and the group ate some dinner — a mixture of berries, some nuts and fish — you talked and laughed about memories you all had from your childhood. It was late nights such as these that made you extraordinarily happy to be apart of such an amazing group of people.

The night was brisk, but the fire was keeping you all warm. You sat next to Katara against a log, across from Zuko and Sokka. Toph and Aang sat beside each other on another piece of wood.

Once you were all done eating, you stood up from your seat and brushed off your pants. "I'm gonna go clean up before bed, I'll be right back," You stated to them as you walked off towards a nearby river. There you would cleanse your hair and the rest of your body before you'd sleep for the night.

Fireflies were illuminating the night beautifully as you walked through the forest towards the river. As soon as you made it there, you were just about to begin removing your clothing, but a snap from a twig behind you caused you to turn your head.

Despite the darkness, you saw Zuko standing there slightly awkward.

"Oh.. Zuko, it's just you," You breathed out softly, worried that it might've been a stranger or worse, an enemy. "Are you okay?" You asked.

"Uhm.. yeah," He nodded and scratched the back of his neck. "I was just.. wondering.. uhm, what you were doing?"

"I told you guys I was going to clean up before bed," You stated.

"Right, right.." Zuko nodded, seemingly nervous. "Y/N, I think you should know something," He started. Your eyes opened wider as a way to tell him to continue. There was stillness for a while, but you said nothing and waited for Zuko to compose himself. "I think we make a great team, ever since I've joined the group I feel like we've been able to make each other stronger.. and I just wanted you to know that," He whispered the last part as you smiled softly.

"I'm glad you feel that way, Zuko," You replied. "You've brought a sense of relief to this group and I couldn't thank you enough for helping us so much."

"Yeah.." He nodded slowly and locked his gaze with the dirt. "What I mean is.. you and me," He added bashfully.

"What?" You whispered softly as he lifted his gaze up to stare at you.

"I like you," He admitted and it sounded as if he was holding his breath that whole time. "No, I don't like you.. I love you," He said it fast, almost casual and soft.

"No.." You shook your head, whispering.

"Yes," Zuko nodded, "Yes, I do."

"Zuko.." You started, but he interrupted.

"Y/N, I've loved you since the minute I met you. I've tried a million times to tell you, but it's been so hard and I just thought that the best moment was right now because it seemed so perfect and right. Now, I know.. I'm not this wonderful great person and I'm not particularly good enough for you, but you have made me really happy. The best I've felt in years," Zuko breathed as hot tears began to stream down his cheeks. You parted your lips as tears began to brim in your eyes.

"No, Zuko, you are a wonderful person," You stepped closer to him, gently gripping his biceps as he looked at you with crying eyes. "I'm so grateful to you, Zuko. You have no idea what you've done for me and everyone else, you have brought so much peace with you since you've came. And I care about you so much, but I don't know if I can love you the way you want me to, so I don't want to tell you that I do if I don't feel it."

"You don't?" Zuko looked at you, standing still.

"No," You shook your head softly, "It would be a disaster if you and I courted."

"No, it wouldn't be a disaster," Zuko shook his head.

"Yes, it would, Zuko," You shakily stated. "We'd be miserable."

"Why are you saying this?" He asked, leaning in closer as you backed your head away to look at him directly.

"Because I've tried this sort of thing before, Zuko. I've tried and it has failed and I have been so terribly hurt," You admitted as tears burned the softness of your cheeks.

"Are you afraid I will hurt you?" Zuko questioned, softly as more tears continued to stream down his face.

"Not you," You shook your head. "I just can't put myself into a situation like that, not with so much going on right now anyway."

Zuko released a soft breath and stared at you as you brought your hands back down to your sides, "You don't love me?"

"No," You shook your head.

There was silence for a while. The only noise came from the crackling fire from the camp and the babbling river beside you.

"Zuko, I don't believe that I'll ever fall in love or be with anyone," You admitted. "I value my liberty too much to give it all up."

Zuko's eyes were bloodshot as the fast few tears continued rolling down his cheeks. "Is that all?" He asked, his voice cracking.

You nodded softly, while a few more tears escaped your eyes, as well. Zuko turned on his heels and walked away, leaving you to stand there, with your head falling to eye the ground as more tears burned through your closed lids.

.

a/n: hi, my loves!! this was inspired by that one scene from little women and i just loved it so much that i kinda wanted to try it with zuko! if you want a part two with a happier ending, lmk and i'll absolutely do that for you cuties!! thank you so much for reading, i hope you enjoyed it! mwah! — angelina.