#zuko: wow they're being so nice to me :)

[thegroundhogdidit]

i don't ship most of the atla characters individually but i do think it would be profoundly funny if post-sozin's comet every single member of the gaang had a crush on zuko and he was wildly oblivious to it

[ultfreakme]

ok ok i have 2 things to say:

1) what do you think about yuuji being unaware to junpei having a crush on him?? like, from my part i think he wouldn't see the signs that junpei gave via attitude and corporal language until later. im curious about your takes

2) zukka having a date on the turtleduck pond....... the levels of fluff im dying

Thanks for the ask AAAAHHHHH!!!

Yuuji being oblivious can have two directions; one is that Junpei is trying to hidde all signs that he does have a crush on Yuuji and is failing very badly but literally everyone and their mother knows Junpei has a giant crush on Yuuji. Two is Junpei IS showing his affection, and Yuuji doesn't notice. In the first route, literally no one is having a fun time but Yuuji. Yuuji's like "wow Junpei's so nice, I wonder why he avoids me and acts weird sometimes" and tries to address it but Junpei's like" Me??? WEIRD????? HUH????No I'm not ahahahaha hey anyways wanna talk about this new DVD i got????" In the second, Yuuji has no idea anything is up. He just thinks Junpei is a very near and dear friend who has a lot of consideration for him. And personal hc, if Junpei lived, Yuuji-Junpei would've been the most closest friendship in the group. So now Yuuji's impression of "Best friendship" is Junpei making googly eyes at him, excessive physical contact, cuddling, going on solo hang-outs with the bro(they are basically dates). And everyone else is losing their goddamn minds because these two are practically dating already but Junpei won't CONFESS because he's insecure and scared Yuuji needs to be hit with a rock to figure this out. I think Yuuji, unconsciously, would be doing more romantic gestures and would also FEEL more romantic but he just has not put the label on it. "Oh yeah my heart beats fast around Junpei because I'm usually running to meet him" or "I feel all hot around the collar and blush because he's just so nice when he laughs like wdym you DON'T feel all fluttery too??? Look at him!!" And now Junpei is conflicted because wait is Yuuji....reciprocating? This clown show ends when Nobara and Megumi lock Yuuji and Junpei in their classroom and stage an intervention. Gojo is not helpful at all he keeps staring at them and makes ominous jokes(or threats, no one is sure- it's the Geto trauma getting to him).

2. ZUKKA DATE!!! omg Zuko would be so awkward and shy showing the place to him meanwhile Sokka is like "THE FLUFFIES!!". He's so confused as to why Zuko was acting like he was leading him down the plank just to show this place. It's pretty, it;s cute! Sokka is suffering from a bad case of the butterflies because Zuko's smiling really softly at the ducklings. Sokka is initially a little hesitant about holding them and Zuko thinks its cute how Sokka's like "oh my god, the little dude's nuzzling, they are happy in my hand!!" Zuko probably brought duck feed so they're also feeding them. And maybe it's a chill day so Sokka gets out his brushes and paper to start drawing. It's a terrible drawing but Zuko is on cloud nine because Sokka drew them holding hands and surrounded by the turtleducks. Sokka's trying so hard to make it look good for Zuko because he seems so excited to see it. They'd probably slump against each other under the shade of a tree and watch and relax, Sokka's 100% going to fall asleep on Zuko's shoulder because it's so.....peaceful.....and perfect and he feels safe and warm. Zuko is staying statue-still and admiring Sokka's slack face(literally no one but him thinks its cute, because Sokka sleeps with his mouth wide open and drooling and a little snoring).

[pixeljade]

finished my rewatch of ATLA and LoK and here's my takeaways this time:

• Actually it makes perfect sense that Toph and Aang would grow up to be bad parents. The entire Aang Gang was basically parentless! Zuko and Toph both had parents but they were abusive (Toph's being too strict and Zuko's, well, you know), and Katara and Sokka had one dead parent and one that went off to war when they were little. Aang outright had no regular familial structure, but even the family he had was lost to him when he was frozen. Add on top the horrendous traumas they all experienced and being thrust into celebrity status, and of COURSE they'd have flaws in parenting! I get that we want to reject it because we love these characters and they're caring, but caring alone does not a good parent make.

• However, Toph becoming a cop makes ZERO sense! She was SERIOUSLY anti-rules the entire first series! It would have been much more believable if she'd ended up inventing pro-bending. Also she woulda come out as trans and become a big buff dude, but obviously there was no way they coulda gotten away with that. Still, they could have at LEAST made her not a cop!

• Zuko's arc is 90% of what makes ATLA the great story it is! Its incredible how perfectly his story mirrors Aang's, and how the two of them slowly begin to accept the other. They're both trying to reclaim something they feel they've lost, and they both must confront their pasts to do it. Its a shame that it happens off-screen, but the fact that LoK confirms that Aang and Zuko became best friends eventually made me so happy.

• The plot writing in LoK was KINDA terrible! They covered it up with good character writing and of course flashy bending sequences, but Season One was a mess and Unavattu was only defeated by a bunch of deus ex machinas. I could go on! Not the worst writing but after rewatching ATLA it really is a step down in that department

• Also, the first-series cameos were a BIT gimmicky by the end! I'd say that in particular, Zuko and Iroh (the original Iroh not the general of the united forces Iroh) were unnecessary to still be around. Both of their roles could have been completed by other characters easily. Toph made sense, as did Katara, and flashbacks to Sokka and Aang, but Iroh should have died peacefully in his tea shop instead of going to the spirit world, and Zuko should have died peacefully after fixing the Fire Nation's problems.

• The number of characters who show up regularly in LoK are about double the number of characters that show up in ATLA. I think that might be why the character arcs for so many (cough cough Mako) are so unsatisfying, theyve got too many character arcs to complete.

• The mech-suits were EYE-ROLLINGLY cheesy. Sorry, I know its a nerdy nitpick I just think that if everything else is 1920's-1940's style technology, having something thats completely not doable by modern standards just kinda breaks the world for me a bit.

• I know I know, they were limited by the executives and breaking new ground, but the Korrasami ending was REALLY underwhelming compared to subsequent examples! They LITERALLY just hold hands to hint at it. Still important that it happened, but wow, how far we've come, you know?

• The politics of LoK were so very clearly neoliberal centrist its EXTREMELY eye-rolling. Cops are treated like superheroes instead of oppressors, and those who do call them that are shown to be villains. Amon and Zaheer are both VERY CLEARLY shown to be right about their respective ideologies, but are made into villains by having them be wildly zealous, and their ideologies are never really defeated. And neither of them are treated with compassion, yet Kuvira, the fascist dictator with an atomic bomb-analog, DOES. Exactly like centrists who think we should be nice to cryptofash conservatives but treat anyone seeking a more equitable world as monsters.

At least, those are my takeaways this time. Admittedly I was watching while working on homework 90% of the time so i may have missed key moments which change this all, but gosh it was overall a little underwhelming of a rewatch for LoK! For ATLA though it was like revisiting a bunch of old friends.

[brionysea]

watching netflix avatar, for some reason. here are my thoughts

the genocide of the air nomads scene simply shouldn't exist

that is not katara

sokka is initially unlikable. good job!

sokka being so dismissive of katara is still sexist, they're just not calling it that anymore

the southern air temple prologue really lessens the impact of aang being gone for 100 years. it was like 5 minutes ago in screen time

"sky bison. SKY! BISON!!!!" "repeating it doesn't help"

zuko's obsession with the throne is weird. and why is he telling his uncle about his 3 year quest to find the avatar?? iroh KNOWS. he was THERE

someone should've fixed all this exposition pretending to be dialogue. the script needs like 5 more rounds of editing

zuko was never this evil

iroh talking to aang is good. very cryptic. never saying what his own views are, only explaining the new world to aang

suki <3 she's so weird <3

"i'm not just a warrior, i'm a kyoshi warrior" this is the only time this version's obsession with warriors has worked for me. is aang even a pacifist here? i'm concerned

stop yelling at aang for "running away from his responsibilities" he literally didn't do that

where is zuko's honour? not only is he not yelling about it every five minutes, but they're failing to demonstrate that he HAS it, despite what his father would have him believe

the CGI is stunning, especially with the landscapes

i say again: IS AANG EVEN A PACIFIST???? no one else is acting like it, and he's not correcting them. please tell me this isn't gonna be the edgy grimdark version where he kills the firelord at the end instead of keeping his people's culture alive

i like what they're doing with sokka's insecurities

aang and zuko's dynamic is very good

"oh no! there's a huge mountain in the way of rescuing aang!" somewhere in the earth kingdom, toph is laughing

bumi :)

bumi :(

"SAYS THE GIRL WHO FELL FOR A TERRORIST" are we sure sokka isn't a firebender?

this random earth kingdom soldier smacking iroh around for being a war criminal feels more real than any of the main characters

lu ten's funeral???? oh my god

wan shi tong more like what the hell are you doing here

"do you always make jokes when you don't wanna talk about something?" "what? that's not what i do" liar. a lying liar who lies. and his name rhymes with okka

heartwarming aang & gyatso reunion scene (REAL) (NOT CLICKBAIT)

"zuko's so disrespectful to his crew!" cut to aang being the most polite young man in existence

"you shouldn't try to move" *immediately tries to move* have i mentioned that the aang and zuko dynamic is VERY good?

steals your notebook and then earnestly says that you have neat handwriting. nice to see you here, aang. where ya been?

"i'm sorry! i didn't mean to hurt you. i have a feeling you've been hurt more than enough" :(

agni kai changes... bad

"more adult than the original" except they can't handle zuko's scar and say his vision COMPLETELY recovers from that burn. embarrassing

azula is being....... very open

suki and yue aren't just underdeveloped sokka-love-interests here, which is nice. but what is that WIG

"the plan is to reclaim what's rightfully mine!" "so no plan?" "i'm working on it, uncle :("

azula would never say no to her father

wow it's almost like katara fought for the right to be TAUGHT so that after the time jump, you could assume the women of the NWT had received some combat training, instead of just throwing them at the fire nation with no experience, at which point they will immediately be slaughtered

seriously, why is this version so obsessed with warriors? i get that it's war but the main character is a PACIFIST MONK

saving the "katara declares the gaang as found family" moment for the end of the season does flow better than three episodes in. that's always seemed a bit rushed to me

how the hell did they make yue's death about her grieving father comforting SOKKA????

the only time anyone has a point about aang being irresponsible is how he just... decided not to learn waterbending. and it seems like he's finally gotten over that! so everyone better shut up about it from now on because there's no other basis for that so-called "character flaw"

why was azula even here?

verdict: not enough appa

[madrone33]

So here's my thoughts on netflix atla ep 2! It was... hmmmm. Zuko was the best part imo.

Heads up; spoilers obviously. But also I'm a huge fan of the original, so I'm heavily biased and also literally cannot not compare them. This is my opinion only, and if yours is different that's completely fine! I just wrote this out mainly for me to get my thoughts in order, and posted it for fun. Anyway! Here's my extremely long rambling:

The Northern Water Tribe attack warning - it’s unnecessary. They’d already need to go there to get Aang and Katara a waterbending master. There’s no need to take away from the sudden shocking attack just to add a deadline they don’t need. They have Sozin’s Comet for a deadline. If they’re even going to add that. Honestly can’t tell at this point.

Kyoshi - her showing up and possessing Aang takes away from Roku being the first show of Avatar State power. And it being possible from any shrine instead of needing the Winter Solstice? Huh. Also, she’s really harsh and mean; in the cartoon she’s more just stoic and blunt? Is she supposed to be a stand in for the mentor role instead of Roku? Don’t see why they made Kyoshi throw down this episode either; story wise, Kyoshi Island... isn’t all that major. Why did they choose here in this minor skirmish to showcase the power of the Avatar? It’s seriously overkill.

Zhao - not assholeish enough, just kinda smarmy. Where’s him smugly shoving in Zuko’s face the fact that his father doesn’t want him? I miss feeling like I want him to drop dead. Also, his sideburns aren't big enough lmao. Have him swap with Lieutenant Jee.

Zuko - really getting the teenage angst vibes here and I love it. Zuko is my favourite character so far. Also wow, he’s actually fairly emotionally aware. And pretty reasonable? Like, they're really toning down how much of a jerk he was in the original, huh?

(I kinda knew they'd do this tbh. Adaptation writers have this Thing where they see what the fans like, and then misunderstand why the fans like it. We like Zuko because he has an amazing redemption arc, goes through shitTM, and ultimately becomes a badass good guy. But his arc was only so great because we saw how very low he started. Zuko was an asshole for most of the show. Like seriously, he was not a nice person in s1 and s2 and most of s3. He was angry and bitter and callous, and there were only a few times where his better side shined through to give us a glimpse of the kind of person he could be. So when he embraces that side, and fully turns his back on his abusive father, we are right there with him, seeing him at his lowest point, and watching him rise higher than anyone thought possible. If he starts out more mellow, less of a trashfire little shit, almost a nice person, then he can't rise to such great heights. And that's a shame.)

Aang’s fear - I don’t like him being so powerful the monks were scared of him. As a kid, he’s supposed to have a peaceful, happy life; that’s why getting all that abruptly shattered and ripped away hurts so much. And his fear of the Avatar State would be valid - except that he calmed himself down last episode without anyone’s help?? He seemed to be able to control the Avatar State just fine, so there is no problem, and thus, no reason for his fear.

Captured by Kyoshi Warriors - it's weird that Aang airbended when they were ambushed and they had zero reaction, but it was him airbending that proved he was the Avatar in the cartoon. I also don’t like the deus ex machina statue.

Ozai - face reveal?? I like his voice. But for the love of god, stop putting the firelords on the same step as everyone else!! He should be on his throne, behind the fire, in shadow, with a low-up camera angle- He’s a dramatic ass bitch, stop taking away from his dominance displays!

Unagi - Kyoshi stopping the attack means no Unagi, and I am sad. Idk maybe they didn’t want to bother with the cgi? But they did Kysohi? Ok… Oh also, isn’t the Unagi the thing that kept most outsiders away? Weird that they’d not even mention it.

Commander - guys stop feeding Zhao’s ego. Let Uncle Iroh subtly put him down by calling him a Lieutenant.

Sokka and Suki - I don’t like it. It was cute in some scenes maybe, but wayyy too forced. By taking away Sokka’s sexism, they’ve taken away the main rift between Suki and Sokka as well as the reason for them making up. Sokka swallowing his pride and humbly asking for lessons is the only reason Suki gives him a second glance, and then she gets to know and respect him. They didn’t just see each other and have some innate attraction! Also she gave him one (1) kiss on the cheek, because it was at most a crush and mutual respect at this point, not some big thing! I would’ve bought it if he’d fought her at the statue and she’d taken him out and he was impressed and smitten and then tried to awkwardly fumblingly get to know her - but that’s not what happened! I’m pretty sure she was holding Katara at that point. There’s no reason for them to notice each other. Is it seriously just because they’re hot?? Come on guys! You’re better than this! Sorry. Rant over.

Gran Gran - ah. She’s back as the exposition master I see. Have a scene where her grandkids try to go off and save the random kid they found, get busted, brace for anger, only to receive her support and love as she tells them how proud she is and how scared? Nah, just have a voice over, it’ll have about the same emotional impact, I’m sure. Well, I guess that’s one way to skip the Waterbending Scroll episode.

Katara - so this is a trend is it? She’s just- not gonna get mad at the things she should be getting mad at. She didn’t break the iceberg from anger, and she doesn’t feel bitter and jealous of Aang being a bending prodigy. O-kayyy. (Because imo her jealousy was less ‘oh he’s getting this faster than me’ and more ‘omfg I am the last waterbender in the south and this is MY culture and if I’m failing to learn this then that’s one more thing the fire nation has taken from me and would you please stop rubbing in my face how much better you are-) Yeah, so what does this mean for Imprisoned and Jet?

Suki’s mum - by making Suki’s mum the hard, untrusting person, and making Suki the more trusting hopeful one, it takes away a big part of Suki’s character; she’s a warrior that was born, and grew up, shaped by the war. She and her people were so untrusting of outsiders and the danger they posed that they would throw them to a sea monster to get eaten alive rather than trust. And it’s Aang and Sokka that inspires Suki to change that way of thinking. By taking away her initial distrust, it’s taken away her ability to change. Just like Sokka, less character flaws means less character development.

Katara standing right there so that Zuko looks up and spots her - like Katara, come on! At least try to be subtle! This is the Last Agni Kai all over again I swear-

Momo - he’s… hmm uh yeah. Idk. I don’t like. Sorry.

Suki’s facepaint - ok ok, sure, they couldn’t trust the audience to be able to point her out with her facepaint on so they made her take it off, but like- the whole point of the facepaint is so no one stands out and gets targeted? And now? She stands out??

Sokka doesn’t wear a dress - I am disappointed. I am very disappointed. The dress is not just a dress, it’s 1) showing how Sokka is willing to follow, adapt to, and respect other’s traditions, 2) proving that what you wear doesn’t affect your skills, and 3) it’s vital to making Suki, in turn, respect him. The writers are cowards. Let my man wear a dress!!

Coward - speaking of, why do people keep calling Aang that?? He didn’t run away in this one! It really doesn’t hit very hard at all when he literally Didn’t. Run. Away. If you’re going to make changes, stop referencing the old version!

Kya - the flashbacks to Katara’s mum when the fireballs got too close were pretty good. Just enough detail to know something traumatising happened, not enough to reveal the whole story. And it’s realistic that Katara would have a trauma response to fire.

Power scaling - an issue of last episode too. The original was good at slowly building up and introducing the power of the world. We go from Zuko, to Zhao, to Azula, to Ozai, to Sozin's Comet. But since we’ve seen the firebenders at the height of their power - during Sozin’s Comet - all other firebending should now be less impressive. (I say “should be” because tbh the firebenders under Sozin’s Comet weren’t even much more powerful looking?)

Weapon - why does Kyoshi call the Avatar the ultimate weapon? That sounds like General Fong type shit. The Avatar is the bridge between the physical and the spirit worlds, they keep the balance. In no way does that mean they have to become a weapon. In fact, I would argue that a good Avatar must be the furthest thing from a weapon, because weapons are wielded by others to kill, but the Avatar should be independent in the decisions they make, striving for peace, if they want to see the bigger picture and keep the balance for all.

Appa - he was there. He didn’t look too bad. I hate that that’s the only thing I can say about him.

Sokka finally shows the boomerang - but he still doesn’t use it in combat. At this point I think they’re trying to contain the sheer power that would be unleashed should he get to wield it.

RIP the pirates - I get the time constraints, but I am sad we never get to see the sheer unhinged-ness of Zuko's stubborn ass. This mf out here catching goss of a bald kid and a waterbender and immediately grabbing it with his teeth.

Hmm yep, think that's everything for now. It's a fine episode if I don't think about stuff too hard, but if it's only good when my brain's turned off then it's not really that great, yknow? I'll probs keep watching the rest, but I might not post any more reactions unless they pull something hella good or fuck up egregiously bad lol.

[discordiansamba]

jin squints at him.

"wait," she says, "-you're not lee, are you?"

"no," he says, "-uh. zuko here. i guess this isn't really our first time meeting but-"

"oh wow," she says, "-you were telling the truth."

zuko can't help but bristle. did you think I- lee- was making it up? why would he- i- lie about this? jin arches an eye at the slip-up and zuko just groans. look. it's confusing to keep it all straight sometimes. she gives him a considering look, before taking his hand.

"come on," she says, "-let's talk somewhere a little more private."

zuko's not entirely sure what to do, so he just just kind of follows her. there are a few confused whispers as they pass- from people he recognizes as knowing both jin and lee. she leads him off the main paths of the middle ring, into a familiar park. they'd always walk through it whenever he met her on the way back from the bathhouse.

well. lee did.

she finds a quiet bench and sits down on it. zuko shifts awkwardly on his feet for a few moments, before she pats the spot next to her and he sits down.

"so," she asks, "-here to try and conquer the city again?"

zuko groans, and hangs his head. why is that the first thing everyone asks me? i mean, it's fair, but- whatever. anyways. the answer's no. i got that out of my system. turned over a new leaf. he's also uh. sorry. for doing that. if it helps any, he'd kind of ended up experiencing it right alongside them. it sucked.

jin says she's surprised he cut his hair.

"lee did that, actually," zuko says, "-i guess he was finding his resolve."

shame, she says. long hair looked cute on you. zuko feels his cheeks heat up, and jin scoots closer. so? how do you feel about me now, prince zuko? he averts his gaze. she's so close they're almost touching- and then they are. she puts a hand on his knee, and he swears he feels his heart skip a bit.

...oh. shit.

he's still in love with her.

it must show on his face, because jin gives him a sly smile. she's flattered, prince zuko, but she barely knows you. how about you take her on a nice date so she has a chance to get to know the real you a little better. maybe this weekend? she has a day off then. and she's pretty sure you're free whenever.

"...what do you mean by that?" zuko asks.

"pretty sure princes don't have jobs," jin says.

"being a prince is a job!" zuko counters.

"uh huh," she says, "-and are you doing your job right now, your highness?"

"...no," he admits, "-i'm uh. on sabbatical. for... medical reasons."

jin snorts into her hand. that's a really funny way to refer to being brainwashed. zuko cracks a smile. he'd... missed her, he thinks. he can see why lee fell in love with her. it makes him think that maybe they weren't that dissimilar after all.

...he still has no idea if it'll work out or not. jin still might not like him.

"oh," jin says, "-but this time... don't let your uncle do your hair."

in spite of himself, zuko laughs.

iroh was across the threshold of the room in a flash, dragging him into a tight embrace. in any other situation, zuko probably would have complained about the lack of air, but instead he just buried his head into the crook of his uncle's neck.

"uncle," he says, "-i'm so sorry."

"i am the one who should apologize, zuko," iroh says, "-for not being able to protect you."

for a long time, they don't say anything. zuko is keenly aware that they're being watched by the avatar and his friends. seeing uncle again feels a lot like coming home, even though zuko's... unsure where home is now. he'd gotten so used to living in ba sing se.

he can't stay here, though.

everyone in this city knows his face- and knows that face belongs to lee. but zuko isn't lee anymore. he can't pretend to be him. he'd made this choice as lee, knowing that he'd have to give up the life he'd built for himself here. now that he was zuko again, he didn't think he could stomach putting on earth kingdom green and living a life of serving tea.

uncle finally pulls away from him, patting his shoulders. he tells him that he is going to make the tea this time, and that's final. zuko laughs, and lets him. it's weird. he kind of thought he would hate tea after... everything, but it's become a comfort to him. maybe it's just a trace of lee that he's never going to get rid of.

aang and his friends wisely choose to excuse themselves, to give them a bit of privacy. iroh watches them go, and tells zuko that he's proud of him for putting that past of his behind him. zuko just huffs. he congratulates his uncle on becoming fire lord.

they sit and drink tea together. iroh catches zuko up to speed on what has happened in the fire nation in his absence. zuko... hesitantly tells him a few things about his life as lee, since it's all he really has to talk about. uncle leans over the table with a leering grin when he makes the terrible mistake of bringing up jin, asking what his plans are.

"...i have no idea," zuko admits, "-i think i might actually need to see her again first. i don't know if i even still like her. i don't know if she'll even still like me."

uncle tells him that he can take as much time as he likes. he must still have lingering attachments to this city. there is no judgment in his tone. and... he's right. zuko doesn't think he'll ever be able to bring himself to put on earth kingdom green again, but he's grown fond of ba sing se. it's weird. he feels like he should hate it.

it had been his prison.

he just hadn't known it.

the next day, zuko decides to bite the bullet and go see ba sing se with his own eyes. he'd seen it before- but his time as lee had changed him. he stays in fire nation red, but he ties a wound cover around his scar to hide what it actually looks like. he can't see lee in the mirror anymore, but he knows other people likely will.

besides. it's not like he can see out of the damn eye anyways.

walking the familiar streets of the middle ring as himself is a strange experience. he knows so many of these people. for some of them he can even rattle off their usual order. some of them were even his friends. they give him an odd look as he passes, but zuko pointedly does not look at them. if he pretends he doesn't know them, it'll probably be fine.

"lee?"

two years of responding to that name has zuko turning his head before he can stop himself. thankfully, the person who called out to him is just jin.

...oh. it's jin.

...well. fuck. guess he's making this decision now.

[tiny-katara]

hi cilla! i’d love to know your thoughts on 7 & 30 <3

aahhh hi again <3

7. What's your favorite Zutara moment from the show?

i would say the final agni kai bc it just gets me every single time and i am weak and it makes me sob, but... something about the crystal catacombs is just reaaaallllyyyy good. you can just feel their connection hanging around in the air when you watch it, or i can at least. the way that katara just took that plunge is just crazy??? like girl what are you thinking??? i love it. i also love the way zuko reaches out for once and the fact that katara is on the receiving end??? brilliant.

i know that sokka and katara went through the same thing since they both lost their mom, but i've mentioned before that it's not the literal same thing since their mother died because of katara. at least that's how katara sees it. if katara wasn't a waterbender, her mother would still be alive. sokka lost his mother because of an attack on his village. both are horrible and completely valid, but they would definitely be processing that experience differently. which leads me to claim that zuko's loss of his mother is more similar to katara's than sokka's is to katara. it sounds kind of stupid, but zuko's mother left to protect him and katara's for her. they both fully understand sacrifice as a result (not to say the others don't, but you know what i mean). this all builds up to the final agni kai where zuko sacrifices himself for katara and it's just extra impactful because they've established that they both understand exactly how much a sacrifice costs everyone involved and zuko does it anyway. that's just art.

30. If you could rewrite one episode of A:TLA, which would it be?

this is a tricky one and i think the obvious answer is the final episode but!!! i kind of want to say ember island players.

just as a warning, i am a huge sucker for slice of life episodes. that being said... i would kill for momtara and dadko trying to round up the kids for the play. like the chaos. aang and toph are trying to smuggle snacks in and zuko is trying to desperately convince them not to because "it'll bring attention to us and we have enough pilfered money from my dad to buy them anyway!!!" and sokka gets involved and is like "it's the principle zuko, the principle." katara is also trying to reason with the three and suki is just fighting to keep a straight face. it's a mess and it's beautiful. we can even have a nice little "i am so glad i forgave you/so glad we're friends" zutara moment. everyone wins. except kata*ng but i hate kata*ng so i win.

i would also remove the part where aang gets irritated about being played by a woman bc it's stupid. give me toph making jokes about it and getting more and more desperate as aang laughs along and has 0 issues with it. that's infinitely better.

also the sexualization of katara just bugs me. it's played of a joke rather than concerning. that needs to go. it's so disrespectful to women in general, and especially so to women of color. no one needs that. regular teen katara who just flirts with boys but is still doing her stupid speeches. i find that normalish and acceptable. later she is upset about the speeches and zuko is like "but... they're actually good when you do them" and she blushes or something-- subtle stuff.

sokka is the same. he needs no changing. except!!! he and suki get to actually have a conversation about yue and they come to an understanding and suki is like "wow your type really is women who are sooooo much cooler than you" at the end to lighten the mood and bring them closer :)

zuko and toph get their moment. they deserve it and it's cute.

aang does run off but it's bc he's scared (the thing he really should've been worried about since he low key died in ba sing se lol). he and katara talk and she's like "we're all here for you aang" and they hug-- NO KISS!! the stupid non-con kiss is gone, deleted, non-existent. everyone is happy and if they're not we need to have a long talk about consent.

play ends the same bc propaganda and then we have a similar scene of everyone leaving and complaining. suki gets more lines. it's just what she deserves.

and that's a somewhat outlined idea of my more wholesome ember island players before everything falls apart and the world is ending.

[chitsangenthusiast]

This is like, the third one I send you. Zukka + they're filming a movie about a marine biologist AU

anon pls know how much i cradled this ask to my heart this past week lol

This time, Zuko doesn't care about politeness or manners. He keeps his hands buried deep inside his warm coat pockets and firmly ignores the impish cheer in the man's wave as he approaches.

"Hello," he says, just short of a snarl. "Again."

"Howdy," he man responds lightly, eyes flicking down to Zuko's pockets before back up to take in the crew and film equipment also milling about. "Wow, I really didn't expect you to still be here. Don't you guys at least have a hotel or something downtown you could've killed time at?"

Irritation flares in Zuko's chest. "You were the one who said could bring him over. This is ridiculous, we're running out of daylight at this point—where is he?"

He gets a hearty chuckle in response, and Zuko briefly contemplates punching him.

"Bring who over?" the guy asks as he weaves his way through the now-grumbling crew, and Zuko decides the charges may actually be worth it.

"Bring—" At this point, he's just waiting for him to get within arm's length. But the man must read the idea on his face because he manages to easily circumvent Zuko to instead head up to the house behind them. "You—what the hell was the point of messing with us? Aang said you'd be helpful!"

The guy stops in getting his keys out. After a moment, he turns to look back over his shoulder. "You talked to Aang?"

Zuko's head hurts from how hard he rolls his eyes. "Yes, he was the one who sent us your way!"

"Huh," is all the guy says in response, before he turns back to the house, unlocks the front door, and walks inside. Right before shutting it, he pops his head back out and levels Zuko with a long, amused look. "Well, you could always try knocking."

Then, with a wide grin, he closes the door on them.

Zuko stills, mouth falls open. Because there's no way. It can't be. Nothing in the pictures suggest—

He barely wastes a second before stalking up to the door and knocks hard against the wood.

It opens again, and then—there's Sokka, the man who gave Zuko the run-around for the past three hours, the same man who is the sole reason why Zuko is even here, just casually leaning against the door frame.

"You were expecting the beard weren't you?" Sokka laughs, rubbing at his chin. "Yeah, being in the Arctic without a razor for a few months always leaves me pretty hairy. Wasn't expecting the photo op as soon as I got out of the water, so I didn't have the chance to shave beforehand."

That had admittedly been what Zuko was expecting—but he's just as equally blindsided by how...attractive Sokka is, in a sweater the color of the abyssal plain and crinkling eyes as blue as the bioluminescence on the newly-discovered giant octopus-whale from his expedition.

It's a far-cry from how he looked in the now-famous pictures, buried in sodden winter layers and on the brink of death.

"So are you here to ask about the 'amazing discovery of the biggest creature ever yet found' thing?" Sokka asks, smirking just for a second before his mouth tightens. "Or about what happened along the way?"

If Zuko was smart, he would've went with the arguably better answer; pick the thing that would guarantee him critical acclaim, rocket him from being some nobody producer to being one of the greats.

"Octopus-whale." he says instead, because his inexhaustible curiosity has never been good at following that kind of drama for his documentaries.

Sokka's brows shoot up in open approval, and the small smile he gives as he steps aside to let Zuko in is enough to let him know he unexpectedly made the right choice—as well as send his heart fluttering, just a little.

"You should probably congratulate yourself on being the only person who's going to get this story, you know," Sokka murmurs.

Zuko reels, then scoffs. "I'll wait to do that until I've finally learned how to pronounce that...imaginative scientific name you gave the creature."

And—oh, the pictures definitely did not prepare him for how nice Sokka's laugh sounds either.

[theowritesfiction]

can you rank atla characters from your most liked to least?

haha wow, I mean, if I really went in depth with this, it would take all day. so I'll just rank the main bunch of kids I focus on during my writing. So this list is going to be more like least interesting to write about to most interesting to write about. but it's also closely linked to how much I like the characters, so I think it works.

Going to rank them in reverse order, and also, I just want to say I like all these kids, even those ranked last.

#11 - Aang. Aang is just a nice, chill dude, but I can't get excited to either write or read about him. He's like the vegetarian option on a restaurant menu, wholesome and good for you, but just... not all that exciting and at least i would rather order something else.

#10 - Toph. Toph is fun, but she just doesn't resonate with me as most other kids. I think it's similar problem to what I have with Aang, because they're the two youngest kids, I find it hard to see them as valid shipping options even when grown up, and honestly, I'm all about shipping in this fandom. It's what makes writing exciting for me. Also, I think Toph would be the character that would annoy me the most if I knew her in RL.

#9 - Jet. I fluctuate between hating and liking Jet ALL the time like with no other character. He'd probably be at the bottom of this list if he wasn't so damned fun to write. Let's face it, every friend group needs the asshole who's going to say the lewd thing the others might be thinking but won't say. And sure, sometimes I just want to strangle him. While plotting and revising the layout for White Lotus Gambit, I think I must have killed Jet off at least four times. Up until now I have always reconsidered, because it's kind of more fun to keep him around so that he can get punched in the dick when he's being an asshole. :)

#8 - Suki. Listen, I love Suki, but she's not exactly well developed in the show, and while she's very likable as a character, there's not too much to her beyond her being a kickass girl warrior, which admittedly is a lot of fun on its own. What I like about Suki is that at least to me she's very flexible when it comes to shipping, perhaps most of all characters, and I have an easy time seeing her with almost everyone on this list.

#7 - Mai. Up until recently I kind of unfairly dismissed Mai as a bit shallow and boring, and if I had made this list like 2 months go, Mai would probably be #9, but since I've started to write her more, I've discovered a bit of a connection with her. I'm definitely going to write Mai more in my future stories, so I think she might end up climbing this list eventually.

#6 - Sokka. Sokka is just great for his terrible sense of humor, for his never stay down attitude, for being an amazing brother to Katara, there's so much to love about Sokka I couldn't go into it all here. I feel like parts of the fandom exaggerate his intelligence a bit, because I've been doing a re-watch of the show for story writing purposes, and I would say that Sokka's plans come with a roughly 75% chance of failure. But that's what makes Sokka great. No matter how many times he fails, he's going to try and try again until he succeeds.

#5 - Zuko. Look, I'm not going to say anything new about Zuko. He's like the most popular character of the show by a big margin, and we all know that there are valid reasons for that. Me ranking him only at #5 probably counts as high crime in the eyes of most ATLA fans.

#4 - Ty Lee. How can you not love Ty Lee. I think that if Harley Quinn had a split personality, then Ty Lee would be the good side of that split personality. I love Ty Lee because she can effortlessly manage being sweet and a bit mean. She doesn't have much of a filter, so she's good for accidentally blurting things out and spreading chaos. She's just fun to have around, and I love including her in my stories.

#3 - Yue. Listen, I know this doesn't make sense to place a character who's in the show for like 3 episodes this high, but this isn't supposed to be an objective list. This is MY list. I have a thing for unavoidable plot deaths, especially when they involve cute teenage girls, and I want to reverse them whenever I can. And I've totally fallen in love with Yue while writing White Lotus Gambit. She has so much potential I can work with while writing.

#1 - Azula/Katara. Look, I'm not going to decide between these two, I just couldn't. Nor am I going to spend paragraphs writing up my reasons why I love them so much. You want to know what draws me to Azutara, just go and read my Azutara stories, that's all I am going to say on the matter. :)

[reinedeslys-central]

oh wow! I didn't think you'd reply but I love talking about this so this is nice

right, what I meant about the 'moving on' was that in line with what the person who first rb your post said, jc gets that moment of self-awareness post-reckoning. Not moving on really, but the potential of coming to terms with what has happened, what you've done, and so on. What I was really thinking of as 'getting to move on' was this post I saw yesterday about how our happy ending in mdzs is really a bittersweet one with wangxian (hopefully) living relatively peacefully at the cloud recesses and the elders knowing lwj is fully ready to walk out at the drop of a hat. Because there was some progress made, even though the cultivation world doesn't have that full reckoning, there's a generation that gets to grow up and.. only take two flares with them on nighthunts? is the example I think? in the novel? (which was a mistake obviously, but the way wwx comments on how they can afford to do that in their lifetime is what I mean And they might get to have that for the rest of their life if they're lucky.

as for the canon jiang cheng achieving redemption thing, that's why I said that canon doesn't do his sunny disposition (sarcasm lol) any favours in that regard. I don't like reducing his character to him 'not having a choice' about his actions, because that takes away from his character. The fact that he let himself be pushed into mob mentality near the end of the first time period instead of standing firm and using the strength of the sect to assert himself against killing innocent people is one of the most interesting points of his arc to me. It's like he's fighting for justice and against the other factions to rebuild the jiang sect but then he also doesn't care about the fate of the wen remnants and wwx's wellbeing after all? (I viscerally remember a scene in the novel where he was rude to a-yuan!! a literal toddler!! lol canon jc is very interesting to me like How are you being rude to a literal toddler that just left a war camp. like Dude) I don't think he could achieve true redemption in that regard, but like you said, he'd have to show real remorse for that to be remotely possible and canon doesn't give indications of that. Even the drama (for all its Complex Expression Moments TM) doesn't do that. Maybe? redemption would be possible? But not in the real arc-worthy, prince zuko way. if there's anything jc could do to redeem himself post-canon the list would probably start and end with being a better person. It's weird for me to think he actually feels no remorse over his actions with the wen remnants though, because, hey, killing innocent people, so I guess that's why I'm more inclined to that interpretation of mixed feelings? the reason why I think jc might have a smidge of a chance at redemption is less because I would brush aside his canon actions and moreso because I want to see his character change and grow post-canon and that's just a personal wish for me lol. I want to see jin ling growing up and jiang cheng having become a better uncle and a better person, like, what does canon teach him? that sorta thing. I'll thank you not to put words in my mouth, but also I totally see your point with ignoring what the characters are really like in canon. I've noticed the dragging of other characters too; I love a good wwx critical any day but the total absolvement of jc's mistakes compared to it is weird. like wdym wwx could have just waltzed in with the wen remnants and jc would have accepted and it's wwx's fault he didn't? that's definitely a canon divergence thing. which is fine! maybe they're following an interpretation where the jiang sect isn't actually doing fine by the end of the war and jc loves his brother a whole lot more, enough to have a change in morals for! maybe that's what they want to see happen in the story, and I'm not going to insult ppl for not sticking to canon attributes in fic of course. I just don't think that's plausible in canon. In any case, jc is the sect leader. It's been a hot minute since I read the full novel, so I can't remember your reference to the jiang sect being restored by the end of the war as opposed to having to rebuild more of their reputation after the fact, but regardless he's the one with the position and agency to reach out there. not just help yanli get to yiling so wwx can see her in her wedding robes and then leave entirely. I can't remember exactly how the pretend fight planning went down or if it was even a pretend fight, but still; it's not like he 'didn't have a choice' or wtv and that bothrs me too *juggles tomatoes like a vendor at a crowd play*

I would keep going (I really want to get into that thing with fixit fic bc that's cool) but also I'm tired falling-asleep-on-my-keyboard so. have a nice day! night. that thing

In my opinion, redemption for Jiang Cheng's character is impossible. It’s odd how most discussions about his potential redemption always solely centre around his relationship with Wei Wuxian.

While it’s true that Jiang Cheng wronged Wei Wuxian, his biggest crime isn’t his treatment of Wei Wuxian—it’s the massacre of the Wen Remnants. His redemption shouldn’t just be centred around his relationship with Wei Wuxian, it should focus on the Wen Remnants, who were brutally slaughtered under the siege he led.

Making peace with Wei Wuxian doesn’t erase the much larger moral crime of leading a massacre against innocent people. True redemption should be about confronting the full extent of one’s wrongdoings, and in Jiang Cheng’s case, that means dealing with the massacre, not just his wrongdoings against Wei Wuxian.

Jiang Cheng never reflects on the massacre, expresses any regret for the innocent lives lost, or takes responsibility. For Jiang Cheng to even have a chance at redemption, he’d need to show real remorse for what he did to the Wen Remnants—and honestly, I just don’t see that ever happening.

[allnewalldifferentwildspider]

Zuko & Katara's Relationship Dynamic

This is like the third or fourth time I've tried to write up this post so please bare with me.

Oh wow. That video. Hopefully everyone has seen it now. Not only did it articulate arguments I've been making for years, but it also brought up ideas I had never thought of or noticed before. Watching that and watching the second half of Book 3 again (because it's my favorite) made me want to redo my zutara dynamic post.

I'm going to be using the tiny bits and pieces the show gave us to see how Zuko and Katara's relationship looks and how it would look if they gave us more because...Bryke really fucking hated zutara. I mean, I guess they did.

Katara is compassionate; Zuko is empathetic

A lot of anti-zutara arguments have said that Zuko and Katara could never be together because they would constantly fight and hate each other and it end sooner than later. Not only does this actually describe maiko, but that argument would need to ignore the characters' actual character.

One of Katara's biggest character traits is how compassionate she is. She has a drive to help others and ease their pain. Whether it's getting Aang out of the iceberg or healing a Fire Nation fishing village, Katara will go out of her way to help someone in need.

Katara: No. I will never ever turn my back on people who need me.

Zuko is very emotional and passionate person. As much as he tried to hide it to appease his father, Zuko does want to open up and connect with people. Unfortunately, aside from his uncle, most of the other people he knows are like Zhao and Azula. Not the most understanding of crowds. But because of this he can pick up what people are really thinking and feeling. Think of it as a defense mechanism he developed growing up around people like Azula.

Get these two kinds of people together and you get the crystal catacombs scene. Katara lashes out at Zuko until she breaks down. When she does Zuko opens up with empathy since they have something in common. This creates the beginning of an understanding between the two. Zuko uses that to finally open up to someone who isn't his uncle and Katara listens and reaches out to help. Contrast to the first episode of Book 3 when Zuko tries to voice his thoughts and concerns to Mai and she...doesn't really care.

Something similar happens during The Southern Raiders. Zuko figures out that Katara is taking out her anger of being separated from her father by The Fire Nation onto him and even connecting her mother's death to him.

It's not the first time Zuko has done this either. He easily figured out that Sokka was planning on going to The Boiling Rock. He does it again during Sozin's Comet when he tells Katara that Aang needs to figure out what to do about Ozai by himself.

There's a noticeable pattern of behavior by the time Sozin's Comet arrives. Zuko voices his concerns about meeting his uncle again and Katara is right there to help him through it.

Zuko's empathy combined with Katara's compassion creates almost a cycle of understanding and emotional vulnerability that the two can't really get with anyone else. One notices the other having concerns or problems and goes to give comfort by words or by actions.

Zuko still has a temper but so does Katara

Even after Zuko's fever dream character change thing, even after The Day of Black Sun, he still has it in him to yell at anyone who commits even the slightest transgressions against him:

Aang: That one felt kinda hot. Zuko: Don't patronize me. You know what it's supposed to look like. Aang: Sorry, sifu hotman. Zuko: And stop calling me that!

Sokka: So all we have to do is make Zuko angry. Easy enough. *pokes him with his sword* *annoying laugh* Zuko: All right! Cut it out!

Maybe it's the firebender in him or maybe he really is just like that. Basically if you annoy him, he'll let you know. What people sometimes overlook is that while it takes Katara a bit longer, she also gets worked up when people upset her.

Toph: What's the matter? Can't handle some dirt, Madame Fussy Britches? Katara: Oh, sorry, did I splash you, mud slug?

And remember, it was Katara getting angry at Sokka that even broke the iceberg that revealed Aang.

Katara: Ugh, I'm embarrassed to be related to you! Ever since Mom died I've been doing all the work around camp while you've been off playing soldier! Sokka: Uh... Katara? Katara: I even wash all the clothes! Have you ever smelled your dirty socks? Let me tell you, NOT PLEASANT! Sokka: Katara! Settle down! Katara: No, that's it. I'm done helping you. From now on, you're on your own!

The point is that it is both Zuko and Katara that are very passionate and emotional people. One of them isn't emotionally dominating the other because they both wear their emotions on their sleeves.

This also comes in to play when they set goals for themselves. When Zuko sets a goal, he puts everything into it. Katara is the same way. The difference is that Zuko's drive sometimes gives him a one-track mind while Katara is more flexible. Like for example Zuko being so focused on finding Aang before Sozin's Comet that he ignores Toph's story about her childhood versus Katara wanting to go to the North Pole but taking time to stop and help whoever they come across.

This passion also fuels their values and how strongly they stand by their beliefs. I already put The Painted Lady quote up above but Zuko's morality is what is making him so angry at himself during The Beach. He knows what he did was wrong, but he couldn't face it yet.

Sometimes their emotions get the better of them, but it's only because they are passionate about what they're doing.

Their natural teamwork is amazing

I can't provide a lot of clues in this bit because it's more of a visual thing. Just consider how flawlessly their plans worked during their attack on The Southern Raiders. Especially when you consider that it was a stealth mission so they barely even said anything to each other during and it still went incredibly well.

You could see it again during their mock battle with The Melon Lord. Sokka must have noticed because he paired them together to deliver some "liquidy-hot offence." And they pulled it off, again, without having to say anything.

They've only been a team for a few weeks(?), days(?) but they act as if they've been doing it for years.

They trust each other's judgment

Piggybacking of the previous point, Zuko and Katara have only been a team for a while but there seems to be a level of understanding in terms of judgement. They both know that whatever the other chooses is going to be a well-thought out decision. Maybe it's because they see each other as the mature members of the group even though Sokka is the same age as Zuko? I don't know.

Aang disappears right before they embark on their fight against the Fire Lord, and out of nowhere, Katara puts Zuko in charge.

Zuko: Get out of the bison's mouth, Sokka. We have a real problem here. Aang is nowhere to be found and the comet is only two days away. Katara: What should we do Zuko? Zuko: I don't know. Why are you all looking at me? Katara: Well, you are kind of the expert on tracking Aang.

and that wasn't the first time in that episode that she went along with one of Zuko's decisions

Katara: Aang, don't walk away from this. *She begins to walk towards him as a hand touches her shoulder to stop her from doing so.* Zuko: Let him go. He needs time to sort it out by himself.

As a lot of people have pointed out during the entirety of The Southern Raiders, Zuko never gives a suggestion on what he thinks Katara should do. Aside from making it a stealth mission, he follows her lead the entire way.

Katara teases Zuko (and he lets her)

The fun one. This one has two parts: pre and post The Southern Raiders.

Before The Southern Raiders, Katara was tolerating Zuko. She was still angry with him about the betrayal at Ba Sing Se. Getting little jabs at him was the only thing that was really helping her from loosing her cool around him.

Katara: I'm sorry. I'm just laughing at the irony. You know... how it would have been nice for us if you lost your firebending a long time ago? Zuko: Well it's not lost. It's just weaker for some reason. Katara: Maybe you're just not as good as you think you are. Toph: Ouch.

He just finished yelling at Aang and Sokka but all he does is glare at Katara. She does it again, but to be fair, he kind of set himself up for it.

Zuko: It's a sacred form that happens to be thousands of years old! Katara: Oh yeah? What's your little form called? Zuko: ...The Dancing Dragon.

Then comes post The Southern Raiders and...yeah, she's still picking on him and he still lets her. Granted it's a lot more playful this time around.

Zuko: They make me totally stiff and humorless. Katara: Actually, I think that actor's pretty spot on. Zuko: How could you say that? Actor Uncle: Let's forget about the Avatar and get massages. Actor Zuko: How could you say that?! (Cut back to Katara wearing a satisfied grin on her face and she looks to an expressionless Zuko as he slouches in his seat.)

I love pointing it out every time. She teases him and he does nothing about it.

Katara: Er, no. I was looking for cooking pots in the attic and I found this. Look at baby Zuko! Isn't he cute? Oh lighten up, I was just teasing.

And she admits it!

-

So what can we take away from this? From what little time they were given together (thanks, Bryke) it seems that Zuko and Katara really understand each other on an intimate emotional level. They can sense when the other is distressed and offer comfort. They're both passionate in and out of combat, for better or for worse. They're comfortable with each other as if they've known each other for years even though it's such a short time. Katara also likes to add a little bit of playfulness in there with Zuko letting her have her fun, again, showing how comfortable they are with each other.

I do think their relationship could have gone to romantic sooner than later if you would have given it a bit more time. Like first half of a hypothetical Book 4.

To me, at least.

[toujoursmiraculous]

Thoughts and Reaction to ROCKETEAR!

It's a long post, but when are these ever really short? xD Seeing Carapace first made me so excited. I've been sad we haven't had much of him in the show. And then I saw that it seemed like Ladynoir was doing pretty good as they only had Carapace helping them this time. More S2 & S3 like. So I was like cool, cool, this is great. But what the heck scientist WHY ARE YOU BRINGING TYRANNOSAURUS REX'S BACK! Obviously she's going to be something big later on, she's too nicely animated not to be back. Not to mention Bob Roth's plans. Anyone else both intrigued but also scared at what that could do later? Big upcoming plot point, I think.

I screamed awwww because this is everything. I've wanted a LB/Carapace and Marinette/Nino friendship bond in this show since season 1. This scene made me incredibly happy! I'm a huge Nino fan, for those that don't know, so you can imagine how much I love this episode. Even though sad Nino.

"Alya, everyone has to believe that you will never use the Miraculous again!" End of episode: So anyway... So what I'm seeing here is, Alya's not fond of the idea of being just a spy, not being in on the action. Even though it's Ladybug's plan. Chat Noir isn't fond of what's going on right now either, where he thinks what's going on is all Ladybug's plans. Alya makes the decision to not do what Ladybug wants and tells Nino she's still Rena Rouge. So what's Chat Noir going to do to go against her? Because that's coming up on the horizon. Despite everything being easier for Marinette since everything's not just on her shoulders now, she's still been unable to play video games with her dad, and we know how much she loves doing that. :c That's really sad she doesn't even have time for her family anymore. DJWifi over here being all adorable. "You don't love me anymore!" Me: *Chat Blanc flashbacks* Alya suggests her new content could be Chat Noir edits and Marinette's like YES DO THOSE. Then those edits helped push Nino into thinking she was into Chat. Big oops. Not gonna lie, the rewind freaked me out for a moment. Last time I saw that was Chat Blanc so I thought something big was up. But nope, it's just like that scene in Puppeteer 2. Ugh poor Nino! He knows something's bothering Alya, but she won't say what it is and her behavior's too off from how she normally is. Poor guy. x.x Grumpy Nino that Carapace doesn't get attention and then they wrote his girlfriend with Chat Noir. I remember when Alya was grumpy for a bit about Rena Rouge not getting a party to celebrate her. Movie Ladybug telling Movie Chat Noir that he's better with Movie Rena Rouge. Is this a reference to the episode in Avatar, The Ember Island Players? Getting strong vibes when Play Aang and Play Katara were like, we're just friends nothing more and it's great! Play Katara was extremely into Play Zuko. I can see why Ladybug dismissed the movie (or was it the previous one since it's been awhile? Maybe?) because Rena Rouge and Chat Noir???? The writers (of the movie) just wanted to be different because everyone can see Ladynoir, unless they're blind. Alya and Nino are Andre's favorite couple. YES THANK YOU. I mean they're not my favorite because Love Square. BUT they're my second favorite next to them. Those kids are super adorable but definitely that kid playing Chat wasn't doing Nino any favors. First picture Alya shows. Chat with a heart tail. Yeah that's not doing her any favors lol. Nino: UGH CHAT NOIR'S COMING IN BETWEEN ME AND MY GIRLFRIEND. I KNOW, I'LL CALL MY BEST FRIEND TO VENT TO ABOUT IT. Best Friend Chat Noir: Best Friend Chat Noir: Welp maybe I should see what's up. Maybe I went a little to hard on the cat charm and she's fallen in love with me. Me: Oh oof here we go. Also can I ask, if anyone knows, who animated this episode? The fluidity is great and it looks really pretty. But it doesn't quite look like SAMG's work either. Whoever did it, I love it. S2 Chat Noir: You're not replacing me with a turtle, are you? :c S4 Nino: Who would want a reckless turtle as a partner? BOYS STOP. But yeah this whole scene had me laughing so hard XD Very dramatic and I love it. Nino's hilarious even when he's worried and sad! I would've absolutely loved to have heard this in English with the old English voice of Nino, but the new one worries me on whether or not he'll do a good job sounding like Nino and less high-pitched and whiny. :/ New York Nino was great but S4 Nino....x.x THE TRANSITION BETWEEN HIS INNER MONOLOGUE AND SPEAKING REGULARLY AGAIN 😂😂😂😂 Brilliant! It doesn't really feel like Miraculous Ladybug this episode, and I love it. Not that I don't love the show as usual but wow this is great. Okay, I want to point out that Chat Noir

probably was more worried about it than he would've been otherwise because of what happened with Marinette in Weredad. It probably made him more cautious about this sort of thing.

LOL Chat's sulking because Alya's laughing at the idea of being interested in him. 😂😂 I know that's a blow to one's ego and all, and he's dealt with this kind of thing a lot so I do feel bad for him, but that is his best friend's girlfriend and he definitely doesn't want her to like him. Alya: With him it's not just ❤️it's *makes massive hand gesture indicating she loves him deeply* SO SO SO CUTE OKAY ALL THIS DJWIFI 😭 Alya: And I don't even know your secret identity! I would never fall in love with someone I don't know. Chat Noir, literally fell in love with Ladybug, whose identity he doesn't know. Well Alya, I wonder if you saying that matters for later somehow.... o.O Nino running away crying is honestly one of the things that hurts me most in the entire show. Ugh. Adrien over here being all, I'm having a good day. I'm happy and smiling and it's great. And then it wasn't. Adrien, if Nino let him and didn't interrupt, would've told him about how Alya really doesn't love Chat Noir, and that would've seriously led up to his identity being exposed since Nino was watching and filmed them. o.o Did you notice how he was going to tell him about it? S4, the basement is where it's at. Adrien: Uhh, when did you arrange all this? Nino: *pounds fist on desk* I ASK THE QUESTIONS! 😂 So like. Why is Nino interrogating Adrien when he's after Chat Noir? He doesn't know they're the same person. XD He's looking at him like Adrien has info he's keeping or something omg.

Also again this animation is so nice. Adrien, feeling uncomfortable and so turns the music off. Nino, wanting his dramatic music on while he interrogates Adrien, turns it back on. Adrien, feeling even more irritated and uncomfortable, wants the music OFF and turns it off. Nino, turns the music back on. This may be a reference to something, I don't know, but lolol it's so funny. This episode is both super hilarious and super angsty! Honestly they've done such a good job in my opinion. Nino: I'm talking about something that I shouldn't tell you! ...but I'm going to tell you anyway! Alya's Rena Rouge and I'm Carapace! Okay but the way Adrien went from shock to utter anger, knocked his chair back and grabbed Nino's shoulders like "Tell me the truth. You two know about each other?" Aw man, my poor sunshine boy. A lot of the stuff bothering Adrien is all circumstantial, none of it is to purposefully keep him in the dark. And yet from his perspective, that's how it looks. "I thought secret identities must be protected at all times! If that was the truth, you would never tell me this!" Alright so three things. If he's referring to him saying that Nino and Alya know about each other, that was situational and important info for him to know now that this is out. It wasn't important to know before this. The time it happened was dire and was really no time to get around it. If he's talking about Nino telling him the secrets, well yeah that's not supposed to happen and Nino broke that trust. But also, I get the feeling pretty strongly at this point Adrien's going to be breaking some rules too and one of which is he's going to tell Nino who he is. Adrien's being too emotional in this scene to not be involved in it all, I'm wondering if that's going to be questioned later by Nino. He's acting like he knows too much to be a random viewer of the heroes like the rest of Paris. Also Adrien's best friend just totally dissed Chat Noir and went off about how he throws himself at Ladybug whenever he sees her with roses and love confessions. 😂😂😂 This is just too funny! "But he's always rejected because Ladybug finds him annoying! And she's completely right!" Omg Nino, that's not the reason anymore, shush! "And then Rena Rouge appears and he goes *tickles under Adrien's chin* hey pretty lady! You look elegant and you have great perfume." OMG does Chat Noir actually say and do stuff like that to Rena Rouge or is he just exaggerating here XD "If I could I would shut his mouth forever!" Yeah Nino, say what you really think about your best friend in the entire world. Yikes poor Adrien though. I never imagined he'd hear all these bad things about himself from his best friend directly like that. :/ That's a major misunderstanding of him. Which kind of pushes me more towards the "he's going to tell Nino" theory. Sad Adrien transformation DDDX Alya: *explained everything about why Chat Noir went over to her house in the middle of the night* Marinette *facepalm* Ugh that Chat Noir... Well at least there will be no misunderstandings there! xD "Chat Noir, you stole Alya from me! I will steal your life from you." Good lord man calm down. You can't just kill a man! Fanon: Chat Noir gets attacked by a guy over Marinette. Canon: Chat Noir gets attacked by a guy over Alya. Time to go back to the basement! lol Nino's music's still playing xD And the video is left with it paused on Chat Noir hugging Alya. Marinette looked a bit sad, but it was probably more about the situation being a mess rather than being sad he'd hug her. Meanwhile, Chat Noir's fighting Nino and would rather get beaten up by him than fight. x.x "I can't believe that I doubted you." "I can't believe I chose to do anything but be with you!" She wiped away akumatized Nino's tear just like how Ladybug wiped away akumatized Chat Noir's. ALL THE PARALLELS 😭😭😭 But that hug is so sweet!! Nino broke off the akumatization just like Alya did :o Dang, I wonder if that means something later too. "Love and secrets do not go well together, Ladybug. And I'm sure you have a lot of

them!" Secrets = from Chat Noir. Love = for Chat Noir. Yeah even Shadow Moth knows at this point. xP Thanks for that foreshadowing. Nino's charm is my favorite charm so far! It's my favorite shade of blue. Chat Noir: Everybody has doubts sometimes...even me." Ladybug: Is everything okay, Chat Noir? Chat: Oh yes...pound it!

So um. The placemet of Adrien's poster in between Chat Noir, Ladybug, and just with this entire situation feels very strange. Very intentional. But no clue exactly what that could mean..... Nino and Alya are happy over there watching those two, like they're waiting for them to figure things out or something. But really, Adrien should've talked to Ladybug when he could still do so calmly and be reasonable. I doubt that's going to be the case later on. And honestly Ladybug doesn't even know what's going on. Every episode we've seen really either has them working together or she's unable to be Ladybug when he's unable to be Chat Noir most of the time. I've said it before but these two really need to communicate. Nino and Alya are like a less adorably romantic version of what they'd be. "But they're a couple and they know their secret identities, so why does that rule exist for us but they can know?" Very simple. Because they were temporary holders and the Miraculous they had, Hawk Moth hasn't made it his life's mission to obtain, unlike them, who are permanent holders and Hawk Moth's been after them fiercely to make a Wish that could destroy everything. But. The fact he's asking this, and Marinette's Chat Blanc nightmare, really points in the direction that he's going to eventually find out that while she's thought about telling him all along, Chat Blanc's kept her from doing so.

Okay, so while it looks like he's staring up at the moon, if you notice, it really is just one of the pink bubbles.

Now, they could be making it seem like it's the moon though to give it a double meaning. But poor Kitty, he's feeling so awful right now over in that dark corner Dx Nino felt bad for only two episodes? and it got resolved, so hopefully this all won't last too much longer for him! Marinette had a few shaky episodes so hopefully he'll have a few before it gets resolved. But somehow I think that may be wishful thinking. This episode was so amazing, honestly. Wonderful writing, made me laugh a lot, aw a lot, and hurt a lot. It focused on the core 4 characters which I've wanted more of for a long time. The animation was beautiful. And it just felt so different in such a good way. Chat Noir's having a hard time right now, and I know there's a lot of anger and hate about it going around. But please, think of this as him hitting a rough spot in the road to a much better and brighter future. He's going to end up okay, he'll understand it all someday. And that day's honestly not that far for him if you think about it.

[flameo-firelord-hotman]

Part 1

Pairing: Zuko x Fem!Reader

Genre: angst

Warnings: none

Words: 2.1

Summary: to everyone she knew, [y/n] was a peasant, destined to be a servant just like her parents. To Zuko, however, she was his best friend. After losing his agni kai and being exiled, [y/n] was devastated. She thought she would never see him again. Three years later, she almost wished he never came back.

A/N: it’s finally here! So sorry for putting it off for so long. I felt unmotivated and like this wasn’t very good? But I’m posting it now, so there’s no going back lol. Enjoy! And please give me feedback :)

Part 1 -> Part 2

Series | Masterlist

Despite being a lower class citizen, [y/n] was very familiar with the halls of the Fire Nation Royal Palace. Her parents had been working as servants for the royal family since she was a little girl. Her mom was a housemaid. Her dad was a groundskeeper. To be a servant for the royal family was an honor, and [y/n]'s parents instilled this in her. Sometimes they brought her to work to teach her the skills she would need to become one as well.

Yes, her parents fully expected her to become a servant. Doing so was typical for citizens of her status. Specifically, though, her parents expected her to follow in their path and work for the royal family. Perhaps that would change when she met Zuko.

"Hi! My name's Zuko! What's yours?" A bubbly boy asked [y/n] one day. He was eight years old, the same age as [y/n]. His dark hair was pulled back into a high ponytail and he had bright, amber eyes. Back and forth he rocked on his feet, anxiously waiting for her answer.

It was rare for [y/n] to see the royal family, and it was unheard of for one of them to speak to her…until that day.

"M-my name is [y/n]. It's an honor to meet you, Prince Zuko," [y/n] replied bashfully. She bowed carefully to show her respect for the Firelord's grandson, as her parents had taught her to do.

"You don't need to bow to me. You're my friend now!"

[Y/n] quickly straightened up. "But, but--"

"Will you play with me?" Zuko asked eagerly. [Y/n] turned to her mom, who was washing linens. She wasn't sure if she was allowed to.

Her mom quietly said to her, "if the Prince wants you to play with him, then it's okay." [Y/n] turned back to the young boy and nodded.

From that day on, they became best friends. Previously, [y/n] never looked forward to coming to work with her parents. It was boring, and the palace and everyone in it seemed so intimidating. Since meeting Zuko, it became the one thing she looked forward to.

They often played games in the palace gardens, or played hide-and-seek inside the palace with Zuko's mom, Lady Ursa. On occasion, they would play with his sister Azula and her friends Mai and Ty Lee (but only when the princess let her).

Eventually, instead of waiting for [y/n]'s parents to bring her to work, he would invite her over for playdates. Even as they approached their teen years, Zuko continued to invite [y/n] to hang out. As they matured, they grew closer. [Y/n] didn't realize it at first, but gradually she realized: she had feelings for Zuko.

Then one day, the invitations abruptly stopped. [Y/n] could never forget. The last words Zuko spoke to her on that day would echo in her mind: I'll be fine, [y/n]. Don't worry. I've been training for years. I'm sure I can take on this guy!

She didn’t get to watch the agni kai, and she was glad she didn't. She overheard all the palace staff whispering haunting rumors about it afterward. If only she could've been there for him. [Y/n] begged the guards outside of the infirmary to let her see Zuko, but they wouldn't.

Then, the next day, he was gone. And so [y/n] grieved the loss of her best friend and crush, so sure she would never see Zuko again.

"Momma! Papa! I'm home!" [Y/n] called as she walked into their apartment, returning home from a long day of work.

Three years had passed since that fateful day. During that time, [y/n] slowly adjusted to her new life: one without Zuko, as well as one as a housemaid. At thirteen, she began working for one of the Fire Nation's many rich, noble families. Soon she would gain the experience and expertise to become a servant for the royal family…though she was not fond of the idea of working for the family that Zuko was no longer a part of and in the home that Zuko no longer lived in. The thought of it was dreadful.

"Oh, [y/n]!" Her mom cheered as she jogged up to her. "You will not believe what I heard at the palace today!"

"Momma, please, you need to get a new hobby," [y/n] said.

Her mom was always eavesdropping and gossiping with the other servants about the royal family. [Y/n] couldn't blame her though; it was the only fun thing to do at work.

"Oh, this isn't a rumor, [y/n]. It's real," her dad chimed in as walked into the room.

[Y/n] chuckled. "Well, if dad says so, then I'm curious. What is it?"

Her parents looked at each other and grinned before turning back to [y/n]. "Prince Zuko is coming home!" They exclaimed.

[Y/n]'s jaw dropped. She was speechless. No way. They're not joking, right? They wouldn't. That would be a cruel prank. But still, Zuko was given an impossible task. That can only mean…

"Sweetie? Aren't you excited?" Her mom asked with concern. "Are you okay?"

[Y/n] nodded quickly. "Yeah, yeah. I just don't believe it. It's too good to be true, you know?"

Her mom clasped [y/n]'s hands in hers. "Well, sweetie, it is true. Please tell her, honey, so she believes me!" She turned to her husband and laughed.

"We had a large staff meeting about it today," her dad explained. "We were told that he and his sister, Princess Azula will be here in about three days."

"Wow…this is really happening, isn't it?" [Y/n] asked.

"Mhm. Now, your mother and I are going to be working hard to welcome them home for the next few days. Don't be surprised if we return home late, okay?"

"Okay, papa," [y/n] smiled, trying to contain her excitement.

"And don't worry, we'll make sure you get to see him when he comes home." Her mother winked, making [y/n] giggle.

Over the next few days, [y/n] prepared for her reunion with Zuko. First, she made sure to have the day off. Second, she used her savings to buy a nice outfit. Third, she gave her hair a trim. Finally, she rehearsed everything she was going to say to him: that she missed him so much, how sorry she was for not being there for him, that she wished she could've gone with him, and that she was beyond excited to be with him again…perhaps she would confess her feelings for the prince too.

And when he returned, [y/n] was ready. She wore her new outfit: a short, rose colored tunic and sash over a long, maroon skirt. Her [h/c] hair was styled half-up, half-down with a top knot. It was a simple look, but she thought her best friend would like it.

A massive crowd gathered outside of the palace. Just about everyone living in Royal Caldera City was there. [Y/n] and her parents got as close as they could, which was unfortunately quite far away. They could barely see or hear Li and Lo speaking from the balcony…something about Azula invading Ba Sing Se and taking down the Avatar with Zuko.

"Now, the heroes have returned home! Your princess, Azula,"  shouted the two old women. Right on cue, the princess strutted out to the edge of the balcony. [Y/n] squinted her eyes to see her. Everyone around her cheered and clapped.

"And after three long years," they continued, "your prince has returned…"

This was it. This was the moment [y/n] had been waiting for. Her heart pounded in her chest, her jaw tightened, clenching her teeth, and her palms began sweating. The anticipation was killing her.

"Zuko!" Their voices boomed over the crowd.

And there he was: the banished prince, approaching the balcony's edge. [Y/n] stared in amazement. It really was true. Zuko came home! She jumped and cheered and clapped with the rest of the crowd.

After the public announcement, [y/n]'s parents brought her into the palace "to help with housekeeping." Yes, it was lie, but the palace guards believed it. They were very familiar with [y/n] and her family after all. Quickly, she strode through the halls of the palace, going to the one place she knew she would find him.

The hall opened to a large garden behind the palace. Beautiful flowers and bushes surrounded the area. Stone steps and tōrōs led to a large weeping willow next to a pond. The willow's long branches draped over the edge of the pond, the tips of its leaves tickling the water's surface. Beneath it sat the boy she was looking for. He was feeding small chunks of bread to a family of turtleducks.

It was like a dream. For the first time in three years, [y/n] was looking at Zuko's face. A large, patch of rough, red skin covered the left side…a remnant of his agni kai. It was shocking yet saddening. However, Zuko was still very handsome. His dark hair was pulled back into a top knot and decorated with a regal hairpiece. He had grown taller, his jawline was more defined and he had become more muscular. Zuko was no longer that little boy [y/n] remembered, which begged the question: did he remember her?

As [y/n] approached the prince, Zuko noticed her and made eye contact. His body froze and eyes widened.

"Hi, Zuko," [y/n] greeted him anxiously.

He immediately stood up and dropped all the bread chunks. The turtleducks took advantage and gobbled up every last crumb. "[Y/n]? Is that you?"

"Yeah! You remembered me."

Zuko beamed and opened his arms to [y/n]. They hugged each other tightly. [Y/n] felt three years of stress and tension in her body dissipate as she relaxed into his embrace. Not only was she seeing Zuko again, she was hearing his voice (which had deepened), she was feeling his warmth, and she was remembering what he smelled like.

"Of course I remember you," Zuko said, "how could I forget my best friend?"

"It's silly, I know…but it's been so long," [y/n] replied. They separated and looked at each other. Those amber eyes still shined just as they did when she first met him. [Y/n] felt her cheeks turn rosy.

"You're right. I'm really glad to see you again. I've missed you."

[Y/n] smiled. "I've missed you too. I have the day off if you want to hang out and catch up!"

"I'd love to," Zuko started, "but I can't. I'm going out with Mai today."

[Y/n]'s smile faded. "M-Mai?"

"Yep, he's taking me on a date today," a familiar voice from behind [y/n] said.

[Y/n] turned to see Mai approaching them. She gave Zuko a sweet smile, which Zuko reciprocated. Then, she clasped her hand in his and wrapped her other hand around his bicep. She rested her head on his shoulder and looked at [y/n]. [Y/n] felt her heart drop to her stomach.

Mai was as gorgeous as ever, not to mention she was wealthy and noble. Of course, Zuko would date her. [Y/n] suddenly felt stupid for even considering telling Zuko about her feelings. Why would a prince go out with a commoner? Why would a prince fall for one in the first place? Why did she think she had a chance?

"It's about time, if you ask me," another familiar voice interrupted [y/n]'s thoughts.

Azula, someone else she hadn't seen in years, strutted into the garden with a hand on her hip. As a child she was quite bossy and intimidating. From the rumors [y/n]'s mom told her, she never grew out of that behavior. Even now, she was giving [y/n] a dirty look.

"Oh please, Azula. It's been three years, and I just got here," Zuko scowled at his sister.

The princess scoffed. "Everyone knew Mai had a crush on you. Well, everyone but my idiot brother." Mai blushed and gave Azula a look, while Zuko groaned and rolled his eyes.

[Y/n] felt very out of place and uncomfortable. She wanted to leave. She wanted to run away. She wanted to go home. She wanted to lay in her bed and curse herself for thinking this was a good idea. Sure, [y/n] was beyond happy to see Zuko again, but she was also crushed knowing that his heart belonged to someone else. Moreover, being in the presence of Azula made her feel threatened. [Y/n] knew the princess despised her.

"Well, um, I'll leave you all to it. Have fun today…" [y/n] quietly said, smiling weakly.

"Okay, it was great seeing you again, [y/n]!" He said cheerfully.

"Yeah, it was good to see you too."

No…no, it wasn't.

[rms10]

I really like TSR, refusing to let the fandom's weird-ass interpretations ruin it for me......but it takes some labor at times. I never expected to see Kya's sacrifice, and I hadn't thought about her being killed protecting Katara until it happened. (In retrospect, it's perfectly reasonable and I probably should have thought about it, but hadn't.) Getting that story was wonderful. Getting a chance for Katara to confront Kya's murderer and have a chance at vengeance, but then come to accept that it wouldn't end her pain at the loss of her mother and it would only add to her own to take someone's life in that manner, was such a nice capstone to that entire arc for her.

Even watching Katara lash out at both Sokka and Aang when they try to tell her that it won't heal her pain sets perfectly for her. We see that the two people who really know her and care about her well being are both hurt, but set that aside to try to help her see that. I even read it as Katara lashing out because she knows deep down that she can let that go on both Sokka and Aang. It's safe, because they both love her enough to weather that kind of anger, when the see what's behind it.

While what she says to Sokka is horrible, there is an underlying kernel of truth to it. He still has their dad, who's validating him as a man and will be there in the future. Their mom is gone forever, and Katara's already been forced to carry much of the load her mom carried in the family and will never have that validation from her mom as a woman, which is just different than what she gets from her dad. She's lost that forever. She's lost something that's just a bit different than Sokka has and while she phrases it horribly in the moment, the truth is still under there.

The same is true with Aang, who has a completely different experience of loss, though obviously they're both genocide survivors. He understands what she's going though, and he understands how she was there for him when he lost control. He's there for her now. He's even the one that confirms that she needs to confront the man, but then gives her the advice she needs, and ultimately follows - face him and let the anger go.

Yes, Zuko is being a racist prick throughout the entire thing. He doesn't just make absolutely horrible statements to Aang, but his entire demeanor toward Katara throughout is gross. He basically demands that she forgives him, and then manipulates her into trying to earn that forgiveness by doing something completely against her character. However, I actually love that he's written that way. It'd feel cheap if Zuko suddenly became a good person at this point. He's joined the good side, of course, but he has generational racism, colonialism, and imperialism as part of his core character and acts like it. He's still self-centered and sees the others as there primarily as agents to his own inner drivers and ambition. He's just changed the focus of that ambition so it aligns with the others. But that's what I want out of the character. (I do understand that he's not really a good person at this point, but mostly only chafe because so much of the fandom tries to dismiss what he really is...not the actual written characterization. Sorry if I talked to much about him in a response to you!)

I'd also agree that the all-zuko-all-the-time episodes where he earns forgiveness from everyone feel rushed. Personally, I'd have liked TBS to have been a little earlier in the season and then had him there a bit longer, with time for some of the side quests with others. It would have given some time for things to breath a bit, but at the same time most issues are going to be solved in an episode or two since it's still ultimately a kid's show....but yeah, I get that part.

Wow, got carried away there!

hello! hope you have a good day! I love reading your meta.

as a fan of Katara, can you please share your opinion about the TSR episode? I love Katara very much, but this episode has always caused me discomfort, as if Katara's grief was used to hastily close this hole "zuko has redeemed himself and now they are friends." it seems to me that Katara and her grief (as well as Sokka's grief!) deserved a better attitude than to become a bargaining chip "we will write a hasty episode to redeem Zuko and will not return to this topic anymore." Yes, I understand that this episode is firstly dedicated to Katara, but it always seemed to me that it was written without due respect for her.

so I wasn’t gonna answer this because you mentioned voldemort but then like a hypocrite I broke my own rule and replied to an idiot so here it is:

while I think the premise of TSR is egregious I don’t think the episode as a whole is ruined because of it. I actually think it’s the climax of Katara’s entire arc as it builds off from multiple moments not just about her mother, but her as a bender, her power and always remaining in control of said power. not to mention all this time, she’s confronted and helped persons that have been oppressed throughout the war and now seeing someone who oppressed people for most of his life, of course inflicting unparalleled pain on her, but not letting him own that power and reducing him to (figurative not literal!!) shreds. very good stuff.

so yes, i enjoy it voldemort aside, however comma: the premise is indeed quite horrible.

i agree, the writers definitely used katara and sokka’s trauma as a means for this very middling redemption arc after 3, just as bad if not worse, episodes of the same stuff IN A ROW.

katara getting yelled at for not being so forgiving like everyone else, and then sokka’s trauma being used as a means of information for a trip he wasn’t invited on???

(can we be real for a second and admit that sokka and katara should have been the two persons on that trip in the first place?)

next up, my favorite line:

forgiveness is the same as doing nothing!

coming from the person that literally begged for forgiveness from every other person in the conversation, including katara hhhhhhhh

and then the racist comments to boot like 😭😭 may i remind you once again the premise is based on him needing to earn a genocide survivor’s forgiveness so of course he (the writers) couldn’t help himself and had to make fun of the other genocide survivor! he makes it so easy for me to be a hater.

(can we also talk about how some people like to frame this as him defending katara as if 1, katara can’t defend herself?? which she did and 2, didn’t need to be racist to do it???)

and then you have the sokka discourse which pisses me off because most people that harp over that line don’t even like him like that, and trying to pick and choose which sibling is correct when talking about their mother’s death?? both of their opinions were valid and it’s a reflection of their core personalities: sokka is pragmatic, rational and logical. he didn’t agree with aang because he suddenly adopted pacifism, he agreed with aang because yon rha no longer posed a threat to him and his loved ones and to him, confronting him wouldn’t be worth the effort or ease the pain of kya’s death. meanwhile, katara as we see throughout the show, dives headfirst into doing whatever she thinks is right (imprisoned, painted lady, waterbending scroll) she wasn’t concerned about the logistics, she was concerned about the principle and of course, having to essentially replace her mother’s role made her feel more tied to her death at large. one mean comment throughout sixty one episodes does not define her relationship with sokka. pretending otherwise is just annoying.

after that, i find the episode pretty enjoyable i can’t lie to you. getting kya’s story told and witnessing the satisfying climax to katara’s arc (which is far superior to anyone else’s in my opinion) makes the rest.. almost worth it.

[lokigodofaces]

Now that I'm watching ATLA I'm realizing just how great things could have been if we had quality writers/directors that didn't kill Loki off immediately in Infinity War. Zuko joins the gaang and it's hilarious to watch. Seriously, all of this has happened/is happening:

practiced asking if he can join the gaang and offering to teach Aang firebending by talking to a bullfrog

done poor impressions of Iroh and Azula to see what advice they'd give him

followed the gaang for what was probably a long time to the Western Air Temple and then camped above them for a long time because he was nervous to talk to them

showed up and was as awkward as possible talking to the gaang ("Hi, Zuko here")

"You're probably surprised to see me here." "Not really, since you followed us across the world trying to capture us." "Oh...right."

poorly explaining how he's changed

"Well, his name's not Combustion Man, but yes."

screaming at himself multiple times because of how much he messed up their first meeting

Zuko having to learn basic social skills because he's with people other than Iroh now

at first Zuko switches from being all angry and stuff to trying to keep it cool and be nice so often but I'm so proud of him for trying

for the first four episodes Zuko is part of the gaang (at least the first 4, that's how far I am), someone is always going on a field trip with him and Appa. it comes to the point that the characters actually call it a field trip with Zuko.

okay, Zuko was so kind to Aang so often when they're in the Sun Warrior Civilization. Aang is so self conscious about firebending and Zuko just is nice to him. "You're a talented kid." like. dang. i loved that part.

when Zuko learns the origins of firebending he just looks so awed and like he feels better about himself and i loved it.

Zuko giving everyone tea and talking about Iroh and being awful at socializing but trying

and him telling Sokka about the Boiling Rock and then going to help Sokka when Sokka sneaks out to try to save Hakoda. dang just wow I loved it.

"That's rough buddy"

"I see you two have met now." "We met before actually." "When?" "When you burned down my island." "Oh...nice seeing you again."

everything with Zuko and Mai yessssssss

I will never get tired of Zuko and Azula fighting (also Zuko is such a better fighter than he was when we were first introduced to him yes I am proud)

"Feels like old times." "If you really want it to feel like old times, I can chase you around and try to capture you." *mostly everyone laughs*

Zuko going to Sokka to talk about Katara but Sokka is waiting for Suki akdjakghadk

again, they literally say everyone has been going on field trips with Zuko.

when is Toph going to get her field trip? the next episode?

You see? Hilarious. Now imagine Loki being with the original Avengers during Infinity War and all the stuff that would happen there because they don't trust him but he is literally doing all he can to stop a man that abused him and everything's just so awkward and it is entertaining to watch on the screen but heartbreaking if you let yourself think about it and I just wish something like this could have happened.

[chlodani]

This is the sequel to my first Zuko X F! Reader pairing smau.

Trigger Warning: Mentions of car accident. Revenge. Also mature. If you are sensitive to that kind of thing, you're warned ahead of time. Read at your own risk. . .

After the car accident and problems she had with her friends, Y/n, gets to experience what it's like to be a mother and have a family of her own. And finally live of life she's always wanted, but is it really all fun and games?

End Part 22 Special Edition Series Finale

This is the end of my Zuko x F.Reader smau.

6 Years Later. . .

Y/n's P.O.V.

Zuko and I sat outside with the sun shining bright, our friends gathered around and our adorable six year old twins running around with their cousin Chloe. Sokka and Sapphire a baby a year after the thing with Azula was over. They named her Chloe. She's a year younger than McKenna and Kai, but they love her. Sokka is a very protective daddy. Then again so is Zuko. I already know what he's gonna be like when McKenna is ready to date. He's not gonna let her. Sokka and Sapphire walked over to me.

"So, Boo, what kind of benders do you think McKenna and Kai will be?" Sapphire asked me curiously.

I held a drink in my hand and I looked at McKenna.

"I don't know - I'm not so sure they are gonna be benders. I mean I was McKenna and Kai's age when I discovered I was a waterbender, so I dont know," I told her.

"But I was eight,- They could just be late," Zuko added.

I nodded.

"Yeah, you could be right," I told him.

He smiled putting his arm around me, leaving a soft kiss to my head. I smiled as I leaned into in him more.

"Mommy! Daddy! - Mommy! Daddy!" McKenna and Kai shouted as they ran over to me Zuko.

"What's wrong?" I asked in a slight panic.

"Look what I can do Mommy," Kai said to me.

He turned away from us and McKenna. He stood in an awkward stance, quickly moving his hands out. A small puff of flame left his hands.

"Wow! Impressive-"

I turned to Zuko.

"He's a Firebender," I told Zuko with an impressed smile.

"I was for sure he would be the waterbender," Zuko spoke confused.

"Why? Because his name means water?" I asked him.

"Yes, - well, I was sure Kenna would be the firebender,"

I crossed my arms, after setting my drink down.

"Why? Because her name means fire?"

Zuko looked at me and nodded. Chloe stood next to her father. I chuckled slightly at Zuko's reaction.

"But - But see, Daddy watch," McKenna said to Zuko excitedly.

She looked at my drink and concentrated. She held her hand up, and focused. She bended a stream of soda from my cup.

"Very good baby," Zuko and I said to her in sync.

She smiled proudly. Zuko looked at me.

"She's the waterbender," he spoke amused.

I couldn't stop smiling. McKenna and Kai attacked me and Zuko with a hug.

"I'm not a bender," Chloe spoke in disappointment.

"Dont worry baby, you could still turn out to be a waterbender just like your mommy," Sapphire told her.

"But I want to be a brave Warrior like daddy to. Can I be both?" Chloe asked curiously.

"Of course you can," Sokka said to her.

"Chloe, your Aunt is a waterbender but she also had your father teach me everything he knows about being a warrior, because you never know when you need to use both," I explained to her.

"So I can be both?" She asked me excitedly.

"You sure can," I told her with a smile.

"Yay! -"

Chloe ran over to me.

"Aunt Y/n, look what Daddy gave me!" She said to me excitedly as she took out a mini boomerang.

"You gave her that?" Sapphire asked Sokka sternly.

"Yeah, -"

Sapphire hit his arm.

"What?! Its never too earlier to start learning how to be a warrior. And as Y/n said, you never know when you're going to need it," Sooka spoke.

I just chuckled.

"I am back! And Fay and I have bought more drinks!!" Luna spoke excitedly as they walked in.

"Kenna, Kai, Chloe why dont you kids go play on the swingset," Zuko suggested to the kids.

"Okay daddy," McKenna said to him.

The kids started to walk away.

"And Kai no practicing your Firebending without your mother or I around!" Zuko told him sternly.

"Yes daddy," Kai said to him.

They're so cute. Kai reminds me a lot me. McKenna I think is gonna turn out to be just like her dad.

"Tana, Noah, Haru and I brought back snacks!" Jami spoke as they walked over.

"Katara and I picked up three gallons of icecream," Aang stated as they walked over.

"Three gallons?" I asked amused.

"You never know who's going to destroy the icecream," Katara spoke.

"We're lookin' at you Sokka," Toph stated.

"Hey!" Sokka complained.

Zuko, Sapphire and I laughed.

"I brought the tea, - You never know when you're going to need to use it to calm someone down," Iroh said to us.

"I brought some pizza - I know how much my daughter's like to pig out on it," my dad spoke.

"Dad!" Sapphire, Fay and I complained.

Zuko and Sokka laughed at us. I love my dad, but he can definitely get on my nerves. I smiled as our group started to set things up for the party. After everything we've been through, it's been nice to have these past few years, calm. Even Mai stuck by her word. She hasn't found anyone new, but she's happy. She's happy we're all friends and she's happy for me and Zuko. Azula is still in prison. Zuko and I still dont trust her at all. Things for us are going great, and I hope they stay that way. We have great friends, a great family, we have each other, and the most important thing, we have our adorable children. We couldn't ask for anything better.

Taglist:

@cece-lives-here

@sokkas--boomerang

@la-lay

@cuddlykoala101

@zukochi

@mochminnie

@theblueslytherin

@coldlilheart

@coconutsaiyan

@rosestyles69

@juniperwoodwell

@crazylokonugget

@fanficflaneuse

@dailytrashypanda

@feelingsarefxtxl

I am so thankful to all of you who have read this. And am so thank to all of you for your support through all of this. I might be doing another one soon. And I will also do Sokka X F.Reader as well. Thank you all of you for reading.. I dont think I would've been able to get through it without you guys. I hope you read my next one, even though it will be completely new. And if you want to be a part of the taglist for my new Smau, whether it be Sokka or Zuko, just let me know. Either through the comments or just send me a message🥰❤