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comradekatara · 3 years

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the gaang + how well they would do on the infinity train?

this is suuuper hard because there are so many factors to take into consideration. first is obviously the train itself. the train's function in a metanarrative sense is to serve as a vehicle for storytelling, dissecting & deconstructing the process of a narrative and how a character's arc is propelled by their circumstances. the train supposedly functions to improve its passengers, and yet we also know that The Train is a deeply flawed mechanism that can corrupt and further traumatize its passengers just as much as it can "fix" them. when the train invites you in with the single-minded goal of getting your number to zero, assuming you ever disembark, you're probably gonna be left with even more trauma than when you arrived, or at the very least, weirder trauma.

grace wanted to be seen, but instead of learning to value herself for her own intrinsic worth instead of relying on validation from those around her, she was enabled by that validation and literally started a cult. likewise, since jet is basically a less heinous version of simon, i see him taking a similar path to the apex (though he would of course name them the freedom fighters) trying to overthrow the tyrannical one-one and reinstate the True Conductor. he would think his path is righteous. he would think he is protecting those kids from evil. who knows what would happen once he learns the truth.

then there is the matter of what the train wants from you. the train arrives at a pivotal moment in one's life, when they are at an emotional crossroads and need a catalyst for growth. for example, jesse's problem was relatively small (because he is perfect) but hurting his brother caused him emotional turmoil nonetheless, so the train stepped in. this means that to answer this question properly, i would have to answer not only when the train arrives for them, but why, and seeing that every single atla character carries massive amounts of baggage (most of it flavors of trauma that infinity train has not addressed), this proves extremely difficult. i have to identify the most narratively satisfying moment in each character's lives to have the train arrive, and then i have to make assumptions about which cars would propel them which way (emotionally). you're asking me to outline nine different fanfictions.

only jet's character feels similar enough to any of the characters we've seen in infinity train for me to even have an inkling as to what path he would take. while sokka and tulip are quite similar as people (rational, scientific yet creative thinkers who over-rely on logic over feeling, are deeply loyal, and instinctually blame themselves for the problems caused by others), their character arcs themselves have little in common. both aang and hazel experience a tragic loss of pure, childhood innocence (which is why i cry over both of them every day), but in relatively dissimilar ways (at least appa gets to return to aang). min-gi and zuko are both pressured by their upbringings to conform to a standard that makes them miserable to please their parents, only to ultimately embrace their own passion & truth... but not only do those arcs play out completely differently, zuko and min-gi are completely different people, and if anything, zuko's approach to life is far more like ryan's (ie, jumping off a cliff and hoping he lands on his feet).

but what i think you're really asking, at the end of the day, is how emotionally mature, self-aware, and capable of positive growth is each atla character? because how am i supposed to know what the train would do to their psyches, considering each external situation would shape them differently, and unless i'm supposed to meticulously craft fanfiction for each one of them (which i wouldn't be opposed to doing, but only for one character, i simply cannot do all nine – also, i'm surprised infinity train AUs aren't more common, but then again i'm not particularly familiar with fanficition, so maybe it is!), it would only be an approximation, in which i identify their core problem (which again, is not how real people work, or even how atla characters work, but how The Train works) and then analyze how long it would take for each of them to solve said problem.

so, that was a very long-winded preface. without further ado:

aang's main problem is that he keeps running away from his problems, which is to say, distracting himself from the enormity of his grief. personally, i would say his coping mechanism isn't the worst. after all, he experiences so much world-shattering pain in such a short span of time, and he does deserve to preserve his childhood and his innocence for as long as possible. but, for the purposes of the narrative, the train must necessarily disagree. he must confront his grief head-on, without distracting himself from it or flying into a destructive rage that he'd only regret later. it also depends on who his companions are. with katara by his side, he can get through anything (and vice versa), but it's unclear who will be there to guide him through his pain. that said, i know he'd make it through okay. he's aang. he has to.

katara lives in a fairytale. like i said with aang, that's not really a bad thing. she's a great kid with big dreams and a big heart. she wants to save the world, and – guess what! – she does. but living in a storybook strips one's worldview of the nuances of life, not simply the harsh realities of the world, but also the full extent of one's personhood, outside of simply the black and white worldview of heroes and villains. katara's apotheosis is when she confronts yon rha, looks him in the eyes, and sees a human being staring back at her, another human being. she is no longer in a revenge tale. she is out of stories to tell herself. (life doesn't make narrative sense.) ironically, the train is a metaphor for storytelling, so katara coming to realize that she isn't in a story would both be confusingly meta and also fucking brilliant (if i do say so, personally). i don't know how exactly it would play out, but by god i would pay to see it.

in many ways, sokka is remarkably open-minded, and in many ways, sokka is extremely stubborn. i think he'd come to terms with his own emotional growth (which would be rooted in learning his own self-worth) faster than he'd come to terms with the train itself. "okay, fine, yeah, i deserve love regardless of what i can do for other people, but WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS PLACE?!?!?" his journey through the train is actually everyone else's dream experience on the train. passengers and denizens alike keep falling in love with him (or at the very least, admiring him more than they've ever admired anyone they've ever met), but he doesn't even notice because he's too busy being extremely suspicious of everything he comes into contact with. yes, he'll solve your problems and puzzles and help people and make meaningful connections and eventually he might start to realize that he is worth something even when he's alone, even (especially) when he's being unconventional or "weird" or "selfish." but even once he does get his door, does he walk through it? oh no, he takes it apart and tries to figure out how it just created a fucking portal. so while he would technically "do" quite well, he is never leaving that fucking train. rip sokka.

well, toph needs to learn to accept and embrace her own vulnerability. she definitely goes through that same crystal karaoke car tulip did. that, or the train just tortures her by putting her in increasingly more painful situations in which she must ask for help. but that's too awful to even think about, so i'm just gonna say she has to sing karaoke.

zuko needs to learn to trust his instincts and his own internal moral compass instead of the external pressures being forced upon him by his Father (capital F to emphasize that his nation & his father – aka the patriarchy – are one & the same for him, lmao). and he would fail. a lot. but eventually he would realize that his number goes down when he lets himself be himself, and he would leave the train happy. he probably also gets a bunch of cute little talking animal companions to guide him through. he deserves it.

the train appears to suki while she's having a breakdown in solitary confinement at the boiling rock. she finds healthy ways to cope with being put through hell while on the train, and by the time she gets off, she's being let out of solitary. it is a very rewarding experience, and one that she can swear wasn't just some hallucination. she's constantly telling herself yes, of course it was just a hallucination.... but still... it felt so real....

if i had to diagnose azula with one singular problem that plagues her at the core of her very being, it would have to be her fear of rejection. but it's not good enough to just keep having train cars reject azula, she has to accept that rejection, instead of just intimidating people into submission after the fact. she needs to understand why she is being rejected, and be fine with it, and learn from it, instead of letting her lack of universal perfection in every area anyone could ever excel in shake her to her very core. when ty lee proved that she secured the affections of dumb stupid boys better than azula ever could, she did an arson to cope (which of course is still very valid of her uwu). azula needs to learn to come in second place, third place, even last place, and shrug it off, think to herself, "hopefully i'll do better next time, and if not, that's okay also," and once that happens, everything else will fall into place. though maybe she could read bell hooks or smth at some point on the train cuz i think that could help too.

mai needs to stop being so goddamn depressed all the time. has she tried lexapro, or perhaps using a lightbox in winter? her favorite coping mechanism, knives, only helps her feel something some of the time, but most (if not all) of the time she's still being expected to play a part. has she tried, like, being herself? i heard from zuko (you know, the guy? from the train?) that "being yourself" works wonders. so the train gives her that opportunity. and she actually even enjoys herself for once in her miserable fucking life.

omg there must've been some sort of mistake ty lee was totally sent here by accident because she's actually super happy all the time and doesn't have any problems!!!!!!!! jk, can u even imagine? ty lee hates her life too, she just doesn't go around advertising it like mai does with her big dyke boots and depressing eyeliner. but apparently she also needs to learn how to "be herself," whatever that means. as if life isn't a constant performance, you know, like jacques said or whatever. she sees mai on the train. she rolls her big beautiful brown eyes. "oh god, not you too."

#obeetlebeetle #fuck this took me over an hour to write #asks #the gaang and #analysis #AUs #synthesis #mailee infinity train au when.....#sokka is the only one who dies on the train. unfortunate. aunt wu was right once again.#god this question was hard #so many factors to consider #i want the mailee season tho #and i want it NOW!

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the-firebender-girl · 4 years

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The Dragon’s Mark (Zuko x Reader)

-> In which Y/N has no idea that she’s being courted.

Part II : The Dragon’s Bride

Zan (簪) is mainly used to fasten and tie hair up into a bun but it also has decorative and symbolic purposes. Wearing a zan is considered as a symbol of one’s dignity. The more rare the materials, the higher the social status of its wearer. The head of the hairpin is usually decorated with motifs of flowers or lucky animals. Dragon and phoenix motifs are reserved exclusively for the use of royal family.

A new world. One filled with peace, openness, and equality. That’s the reality that she lives in right now and she couldn’t be happier. Y/N was born and bred in Agna Qel’a, the capital of Northern Water Tribe. Although her and the rest of their people lived their lives peacefully in isolation behind high walls of ice that protects them from the ongoing war and making them untouchable to the horrors of destruction that has befallen soo many others including their sister tribe, she always wonders what she would find in the unknown world outside if she has the courage to do so. But all her life, she was forced to go by the ‘ignorance is bliss’ code. Especially since her father is a member of the chief’s Council of Elders.

The people of the Northern Water Tribe are traditionally conservative. Women can’t really hold prominent position of power nor can they participate in activities that is considered more of a man’s job such as fighting, thus why their women waterbenders are only taught to heal but never to defend. Women also become marriageable at the age of 16 and some of those marriages are arranged, with the bride in particular having no say in the matter. That’s the sombering reality of it, and Y/N had enough of these extremely sexist views and patriarchal ways of living.

But the arrival of the Avatar and the siblings from Southern Water Tribe changed it all, they’re like her salvation, a way out of this gilded cage of false sense of security. Too long has their people looked the other way while the rest of the world needs them. When the match between the girl called Katara and Master Pakku occurred, she was in audience. Bewitched by Katara’s strong-mindedness, how she kept on fighting despite having minimum experience against a master bender, still she gave it her all and that’s what matters. That’s when Y/N decided that this is the kind of person that she’ll proudly stand by, and thus why she decided to join the Gaang, thankfully they accepted her and welcomed her into the fold.

That felt like a lifetime ago, and now she serves as her tribe’s diplomatic representative in Fire Lord Zuko’s newly reformed court. Much has changed since the Hundred Year War came to an end, especially regarding the shift in societal’s view of women. Chief Arnook decided that she’s the best person for this job since she’s his best advisor’s daughter plus she’s already a close friend of the Gaang. After all the things that they’ve been through together, seeing eye to eye shouldn’t be that much of a problem right? Y/N is well versed in the customs of her tribe and will without a doubt put her people’s best interest at heart, but she has also seen enough of the world to have a clearer judgement on what is best for everyone. What must be done to heal the world and harmonizing the four nations.

But that is a story for another day.

As for today, Y/N has reached the age of 20, officially a full grown adult. Zuko insisted that a celebration should be in order since she’s one of his closest friends and has been a huge help to him ever since his ascendency. Everytime his hot temper almost got the best of him and ruin whatever agreement was about to form during council, she was there like cool soothing water that pacify his anger away. She has saved his face countless of time, building a fine rap that will define his ruling in history. And for this alone, she deserves all the best that he could offer her, but Y/N being Y/N declined.

“You sure the celebration thing is a no go?” Zuko asked again as he looked her way pointedly, meanwhile Y/N is brushing her hair softly in front of a mirror as it settles around her shoulder in waves.

Y/N let out a content sigh, “I just prefer a slow and easy day, you know? we rarely get to experience those...” She said, sparing him a quick glance. “And the Gaang is coming here anyway, it’s been soo long since we all gather in the same place. That’s more than good enough for me, Fire Lord”

Zuko hums which she took as a sign of agreement but his stare never stray away from her. “Alright if you’re sure, i’m sorry I can’t do anything about today’s council hearing though, it’s your birthday and you shouldn’t be bothered with work but they insist that it can’t be pushed back”

Now it’s her turn to stop concentrating on her hair and look at Zuko through the mirror’s reflection. “It’s fine, Zuko. You don’t have to apologize for anything you know, it’s just one hearing session and we’re done! after that we got the rest of the day to do as we please”

Y/N pointed the end of her hairbrush to him, making him raised an eyebrow, “You need to stop worrying or else you’ll start getting gray hair one of these days”

Zuko scoffed but then let out a rare smile that is reserved for those closest to him only, he let his eyes trail over the lengths of her hair which she’s currently pulling into an updo. A traditional Fire Nation updo nonetheless. Fingers moving expertly as if she has done this her whole life despite the significant difference on hair custom in their respective nations.

“You’re getting really good at that...” Zuko said as he silently gives her an appreciative once-over. “It’s like you’re a natural at this, it took me a long time to got the hang of it. Even Azula can’t do it, she made her handmaidens do all the work for her” His eyes darkening as the memory of his sister briefly flashed through his mind, but he reigned himself right back. Deciding instead to lean his body to one side of the wall, giving himself a better angle of Y/N.

“It’s only fair of me to at least try and learn, I know that hair holds a significant place to your people and disheveled hair is considered as impolite. We wouldn’t want that, would we?” She said as she finished her look with one last twist of hair, making sure it looks perfect.

Zuko is touched by her respond, Y/N owes the Fire Nation nothing, in fact it is them who owes her after all that they had done to the Water Tribes, but still she treats them with utter respect and upholds their value despite being an outsider. She really was made for diplomacy.

“Before we go to the War Room, I have a gift for you” He said as he brought the both of his hands to the front, turns out he was actually holding a box behind him this entire time.

He took a few steps so now he’s standing directly behind her sitting figure, he’s soo close that Y/N can smell the intoxicating scent of his perfume, spicy but earthy. Zuko carefully put the box atop of the desk in front of them and pull the lids open, revealing the content.

Y/N can’t help the gasp that escaped her mouth as her eyes roamed over Zuko’s gift for her. A matching pair of hairpins or as they called it here, a zan. Her eyes took in every detail, starting from the heads of the dragon form with each head being surmounted by a turquoise cabochon, it’s made of gold filigree detail over gilded silver substructures. The manes of the dragons are particularly impressive comprising multiple, overlapping gold wire strands. The pierced, almost honeycomb-like shafts, each of which are of long, tapering form, are of finely worked silver that has been gilded with gold plates.

“Zuko this is....” Y/N is at loss for words, but Zuko is panicking inwardly at the unreadable expression on her face, what with soo many emotions flittering through in short span of time.

“Do you not like it? I could always make another one, I knew I should have asked for your input first but I just want it to be a surprise” Zuko sputtered, words keep on falling out of his mouth in his state of panic, even his voice has turned high pitch.

Y/N resist the urge to laugh out loud at his distress, this is becoming far too entertaining and she’s enjoying it more than she should. Not everyday you get to see the Fire Lord acting this hysterical over something so trivial. It’s adorable, really.

She reaches out slowly so she doesn’t startle him, placing her hand gently on his forearm. This seems to do the trick as he is snapped out of his agitation. “Zuko stop... I love it, I truly do”

His mood did a 180 degree turn as bliss overtook him at the sight of her sincere smile, eyes looking at him fondly. Zuko is mentally doing a celebratory fist pump.

“This is too beautiful, I don’t think I deserve it, it must have cost you a lot”

Zuko frowns at her hesitant tone. “You deserve this more than anyone, Y/N. It’s the least that I could do”

Y/N looks to the side while biting her lips in contemplation. A motion that nearly drove Zuko wild. His not-so-little crush on her is now probably bigger than the size of Sokka’s inflated ego. And that really is huge, people.

When her eyes meets his again, gone was the doubt, now it’s just pure gratefulness. “Well if you insist, then who am I to say no?” She said, completing it with a grin.

Zuko let out a relief sigh and give a huge grin that matches hers. “Now that’s what I like to hear”

“Would you mind giving me a hand? I think it’ll compliment my updo perfectly” Y/N asked, taking Zuko by surprise.

Zuko gulped nervously. “I would love that” He murmured as he’s trying very hard to still his trembling hands.

He reached inside the box and carefully took out one of the hairpin, sliding it into one side of her bun. Y/N enjoys the feeling of his hands on her hair, the soft motion bringing her a sense of peace. After he secured the second hairpin in, Zuko look at her through the mirror, admiring his work.

“It suits you, you look lovely”

Y/N resists the blush that threatens to bloom on her cheeks, opting to tease him instead. “Is this just a compliment or are you trying to flirt with me, Fire Lord Zuko?”

Zuko groans, stammering over his own words. “Oh knock it off! why do you always feel the need to ruin the moment”

“Oh i’m sorry, are we sharing a moment right now? I wasn’t aware” She can’t help but let out a teasing smirk, he’s just too easy to mess with.

“I’m just digging myself a deeper hole, don’t I?”

———————————————————————

Something fishy is definitely going on. Y/N can feel it. Ever since she stepped out of the confines of her bedroom, all eyes were on her. It’s not even a quick stare, she receives a full on stare from every servants and guards that passed by, complete with a small bow or curtsy. Is Zuko playing some sort of prank on her and succesfully got the rest of the palace on board with him too? whatever it is, Y/N intends to find out.

It gets even more bizarre once they reached the War Room. The rest of the advisors and generals stood up as they welcome the Fire Lord’s arrival, that is a customary show of respect of course. But the wide-eyed stares that follow her after was anything but normal. Some of them have an astonished look on their faces, body going stiffer than the looming pillars above. After they have shake themselves out of whatever daze they were in, they gave her a small bow. Now that is definitely odd, why in the name of Tui and La would they ever bow to her? no one ever did. She thought that is something that they consider is below their station. Just wanting to go over things quickly, she gave them all a quick nod back.

Council then is in session, with one of the new general that has been stationed to oversee the Fire Nation Colonies in the Earth Kingdom taking the floor.

———————————————————————

The hearing ended in record time. It only took them about 3 and a half hours compared to the usual duration which could take them all day and well into the early morning hour just to agree on something. Guess there is a first for everything.

As Y/N is busy tidying up the documents and materials that has gone under review earlier, one of the old Fire Nation general approached her.

“Excuse me, My Lady. I would like to congratulate you, may Agni bless you and your union”

Y/N’s face morphed into one of utter confusion, what is this man talking about? is he on something?

She struggles to form a coherent reply, thinking hard on the appropriate response. “Thank you, General. Do you mean to congratulate me for my birthday?” She finally asked.

“Ahh of course, My Lady. And for that too”

Y/N never thought that it’s possible to be this confused, what does ‘and for that too’ means? does it means that that wasn’t what he’s congratulating her for in the first place?

“Ookaay” She said as she drawled out the word. “I’ll be taking my leave now have a good day, General” Which he responded to with a salute and surprise, surprise another bow.

———————————————————————

After she successfully made her escape from the War Room before she has to suffer another absurd confrontation, she made it her life mission to find Zuko and torture the answer out of him. Okay maybe that’s too dramatic, she wouldn’t say torture per se, but yeah you got the point because this is getting ridiculous.

Her quest came to an abrupt stop when a pile of human slammed into her, engulfing her in a massive group hug.

“Happy birthday you beautiful human being” Sokka said while making kissy faces at her to which she can’t help but shudder and scrunch her nose at.

“Yeah Y/N! happy birthday, I can’t believe you are 20 now, you’re officially a part of the old people” Aang said, peering up at her from his awkward position of being mushed between Ty Lee and Katara.

“Uhh thank you... but you guys.. can I have some space now” Y/N said, struggling to maintain her balance.

“Oh yeah sorry about that, Missy. We’re just SOO excited to see you!” Toph said as she abruptly pulled back, accidently knocking the rest of them to the ground with her sheer force.

Y/N grinned widely as she chuckle, “You did that on purpose, didn’t you Toph?” Sokka grumbled from his splayed out position on the floor.

“Ehh guess you’ll never know” Toph said as she stuck her tongue out to him and then give Y/N a wink, to which she reaches out a hand to high five her.

“You guys are the worst” Suki’s voice mumbled out from somewhere underneath the piles of tangled limbs and body.

“Sokka, can you please just get up right now? your butt is right in front of my face, it’s really disturbing” Aang groaned, clearly distressed.

———————————————————————

After the incident they immediately went to the Dining Room because Sokka won’t stop complaining about how he’s on the verge of dying if he’s not fed in the next hour. Suki was so annoyed she nearly knock him out herself with her bare hands.

As the 6 of them sat around the long dining table, the door that leads into the room opened as Zuko comes in with Uncle Iroh in tow.

“Oh now he decided to show his face after pulling a disappearing act” Y/N grumbled mentally, shooting daggers in Zuko’s way.

Zuko head straight for his seat meanwhile Iroh took a turn around the table, greeting everyone, making his way towards Y/N last.

“Happy birthday, dear one” Uncle Iroh said warmly as he put his hands on her shoulder in a comforting manner. This brings a smile on Y/N’s face, Iroh is definitely one of her favorite person, you could never tell he was a former battle harden war general due to his welcoming and gentle nature.

“Thank you very much, Iroh” She replied, looking at him gratefully.

He was just about to head towards his seat when something about her appearance caught his eyes. There it is again, that same shocked look that she has received plenty all day long. Iroh threw a knowing smile her way, making her stare back at him dumbly.

Iroh then leaned down so that his face is align with her ear and said in a low voice, “So my nephew has finally grown a pair and pop the question, huh?” He asked excitedly, well it sounds more like a rhetoric question anyway.

Y/N can feel her eyes widening, Zuko didn’t ask her anything, what is he implying?

She glanced to where Zuko is sitting just to find him already looking her way, he looks uneasy watching the exchange between her and his uncle. Eyes flittering back and forth between their forms.

Before she could get any reply out, Zuko gave a signal to the waiter standing nearby and then the Dining Room door opened for the second time. This time bringing in the presence of several servants who are carrying various plates with all kind of dishes imaginable. To her delight, some of it are even Water Tribes cuisine such as sea prune stew and seaweed noodles to name a few. Y/N can feel her own mouth watering at both the sight and the smell.

Y/N tried to catch Zuko’s eye and when it did flicker to hers, she mouthed a “Thank you” at him. Eyes glimmering with a child-like excitement, ironic since this is supposed to be her first ‘adult’ birthday.

This view certainly makes warmth blossomed in Zuko’s chest. What would he give to make her smile that bright everyday...

Or I guess the more appropriate sentiment is what WOULDN’t he give.... he is certain that when it comes to her, Zuko has no limit at all.

———————————————————————

“Man, I feel so full i’m almost nauseous” Sokka moaned, holding his bloated stomach. Mouth making several vomiting motions although thankfully nothing comes out. Yep, he certainly doesn’t look well.

Katara made a sheesh noise at Sokka’s terrible table manner, “If you keep on doing that, you’re gonna make the rest of us nauseous too, idiot”

“I think it’s best to retire to our rooms then...” Uncle Iroh said, “-before something unsightly happens” He added as he too can’t help himself from avoiding looking Sokka’s way.

The rest voiced their agreement and they all stood one by one. Mumbles of good night’s and see you tomorrow’s can be heard around the room as everyone make themselves scarce.

Before exiting, Ty Lee, ever the sweet person, approached Y/N to give her one last hug for the night.

As she pulled away from the hug, she let out a happy gasp and flails her arms wildly, not able to contain her elation.

“WHAT IS THAT?!?! why didn’t you say anything earlier! how silly of me not to notice it at all!!!” She started talking animatedly without pause, leaving Y/N in another state of bewilderment.

“Ty Lee, what are you referring to?” Y/N tried to ask her.

“Don’t play coy with me now, young lady!” Ty Lee shoot back at her, putting her hands on both of her hips.

Suddenly, Zuko swoop in to the rescue. Putting himself between Y/N and Ty Lee, almost as if he’s trying to shield her away.

“I think that’s enough excitement for one night, Ty Lee” He started saying before he put one hand on her back and guiding her out the door as Ty Lee continues to protest against him, clearly still have a lot more to say.

“Oh I see what you’re trying to do, Zuko. Have fun you two!!! don’t do anything I wouldn’t do” Was the last thing Ty Lee managed to shout out before the door was closed in front of her face.

Well that certainly leaves a lot of wiggle room, Spirits knows that Ty Lee is always up for anything. And by anything, I really do mean absolutely anything.

As the both of them are the only ones remain in the room, Zuko turns his full attention to her.

“Would you take a walk with me to the garden? it’s a full moon tonight, no doubt the view will be enchanting” He said in a hopeful tone.

Y/N gives him a small smile as she just looped their arms together for an answer. Then they walk side by side in a comfortable silence.

———————————————————————

True to his words, as the garden came into view, Y/N can feel the sight took her breath away. The moonlight shone softly against the grass, its light reflecting like glimmering crystals in the turtle duck pond. She can certainly see why this is Zuko’s go-to place, his very own safe haven inside the palace.

He guided her to a spot beneath a big tree, right beside the pond where they both took a seat beside each other.

“Mind explaining to me what is going on?” Y/N asked as she trace circles on the palm of Zuko’s hand, a gesture that relaxes him completely.

He cleared his throat, clearly trying to pick his words carefully.

“You know how each nation has different customs right? especially regarding relationships”

Y/N cocks her head to the side so she could look at him better, then she hums to let him know that she’s following his train of thought.

“And by relationship, I specifically mean courting rituals” He continued. “Like in your tribe for example, the man has to make a hand-crafted choker that serves as a betrothal necklace to show how serious he is, right?”

“Yeah... that’s correct” She answers, now her undivided focus is on him as she’s trying to decipher where he is going with this conversation.

“In Fire Nation, gifting zan has the same meaning as choker is to the Water Tribe....” As he said this, his voice turns soft, almost lowering into a whisper as he scans her face for reaction.

Y/N is quiet for a while, the realization of the meaning sinks deep into her, but she tries to keep her face as neutral as possible although inside she’s over the moon.

“Ahh so that explains why i’ve been receiving weird looks all day”

“Y-yeah... wearing that dragon zan is just the same as screaming to the entirety of Fire Nation that you belong to me” Zuko said sheepishly, clearly embarrassed. “Not that I mean to offend by objectifying you, of course”

Frankly speaking Zuko is feeling very frustrated because the girl he has been pining over for the longest time is showing him no emotion at all, it’s nerve-wrecking.

“I’m sorry... I clearly don’t know what I was thinking” He said defeatedly. “You’re free to just leave it in the box and never wear it again now that you know what it signifies”

“And why would I do that?” Her reply got Zuko turning his head back up to face her so fast he nearly broke his own neck. “B-b-but” He stammered, but Y/N quickly shush him by putting her finger in front of his mouth.

“Now that I know... I think I may even want to wear it to sleep every night, perhaps I should never remove it at all, don’t you think?

To say that Zuko is shocked is not big enough of a word to describe what he is currently feeling. Did she just actually accepted his courting proposal?!

“Do you really mean that? and you’re not mad at all?” He asked timidly, eyes searching hers, finding nothing but genuineness.

“Why would I be mad?” Y/N said, as she put one of her hand on his chest, rubbing it softly from side to side. Trying to calm down his jumpy heartbeat but it seems like she only succeded in making it beat even faster.

“So does that mean that you like me back?”

“Yes, Zuko. It means that I like you a lot” She said, erasing his worries away.

He cups her cheek gently, to which she can’t help but close her eyes, sighing in contentment. She leans even further into his touch, loving the feeling completely.

Zuko leaned down to whisper directly into her ear, the feeling of his breath against her skin sending goosebumps all over her body as she could feel her own breath hitch. “May I kiss you?”

“Well you might as well do since we got a lifetime of kissing ahead of us” Y/N said teasingly to which Zuko can’t help but chuckle deeply.

And so he did. He look straight into her eyes, moving his hand to cup her chin instead and slowly leaned in, savoring the euphoric feeling. She can’t help the breathy moan that escaped her lips, Spirits, it’s like he’s drinking her in.

He pulled away for a second to say, “Careful there, i’m never letting you go now”

She just grabbed the back of his neck, pulling him in again “Never said I want you to” and Zuko can’t help but smile into the kiss.

———————————————————————

A loud crash from above interrupted their heartfelt moonlight tryst as they pulled away, startled from the sudden noise.

Zuko and Y/N squinted their eyes upwards, trying to point out the source when they see one of the bedroom’s window pane that overlook the garden is opened with 6 faces peeking out, clearly have not yet realized that whatever sleuthing they were up to has failed.

“Stop stepping on my toes, Sokka” Toph half-shout angrily, followed by a smacking noise and Sokka yell of pain.

“You’re one to talk huh, Toph? you are literally sitting on my lap right now” Suki voice raised above the commotion around her.

“Guys, would you please stop talking, they’re gonna notice if you keep this up” Aang pleaded.

“Clearly too late for you to worry about that” Zuko said from beside her, making the six of them stop and look down. Giving the Fire Lord and the future Fire Lady a guilty smile.

“Nice view from up there?” Y/N said, not wanting to miss out on all the fun. She and Zuko shares a look, one of pure mischief.

The peace didn’t last long for all six of them began fighting again about whose fault was it that they got caught. Meanwhile Y/N just shakes her head at another one of their shenanigans.

Then she laid her head against Zuko’s chest again, craving to be as close as possible to his warmth. Letting his scent engulfs her every senses. How she loves her very own human heating pad.

———————————————————————

A/N : Thank you so much for reading my fourth Zuko fic!!! I hope you all enjoy it because I certainly did🥰

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stardust948 · 3 years

Text

Crashing Waves

Zutara Drabble December 2020 Day 19

@zkdrabbledecember

AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/28160901

Summary: Zuko can’t go onto the beach during the day anymore because of his burn. Katara notices. They go for a midnight swim instead.

Inspired by @sokkastyles post

Katara has always been an observant person. She could easily pick up on other's emotions and whether they were comfortable or not. It was simply a part of her empathic nature.

After the Last Agni Kai, she paid close attention to Zuko. Mainly because she was his healer and she owed him her life. Also, because he was more stubborn than a goat-donkey. It was infuriating to get a straight answer from him about his pain, so Katara had to play most of it by ear.

A couple of months after the war ended, the Gaang finally convinced Zuko to take a break and go to Ember Island with them. And by convince, they canceled all his Firelord meetings and practically kidnapped him. Nonetheless, Zuko loosen up and started enjoying himself. Or at least he seemed to be.

Katara noticed Zuko mostly stayed in the beach house watching them from the porch. When he did come down to the beach, it was at night or hunkered down under an umbrella. It was strange behavior for a firebender, especially one who's only good memories of his family were at the beach. Katara worried if being on Ember Island unsettled Zuko, now that he didn't have to spend all his time training Aang. Did they make a mistake to bring Zuko here in the first place? Early on the last day, Katara finally decided to confront him about the matter.

"Zuko, there's something I've been meaning to ask you."

Zuko paused from stirring tea and turned to face her, giving her his full attention. "What is it, Katara?"

"You've talked about how many good memories Ember Island holds for you but you've barely been to the beach all throughout this trip. I was wondering, well since this is the first time you're back after everything that's happened..." Katara paused for a moment, trying to figure out how to word it.

"What are you asking?"

Katara leaned over and grabbed his hand. "Are you alright?"

Zuko looked surprised, eyes shining with heavy emotion. He closed his eyes briefly, then opened them with a weary smile.

"I'm getting there. It was being here at first, but you and the others fill the place with so much light and life, it feels like home again."

Katara breathed a sigh of relief. "I'm glad it's getting better."

"Yeah. I just wish I could join you on the beach. I miss being out there."

"Don't push yourself. Wait until things are better."

"That's just it. This is the one thing that won't get better." Zuko said somberly as he touched his scar. Katara's heart dropped as she remembered her fleeting attempt to heal it in Ba Sing Se a lifetime ago. "The burn makes my skin sensitive to the sun. I can push through it during training, but its kind of makes it hard to relax." It was ironic on more than one level.

Katara threw her arms around Zuko and pulled him into a tight hug. "I'm so sorry, Zuko."

"It's okay." he whispered as he hugged her back.

"No, it's not! This is your vacation! You deserve to enjoy it. What do you miss most?"

Zuko was silent for a moment as his mind drifted back. One of his favorite memories was of Lu Ten teaching him how to him then him trying to teach Azula. They both accidently went out too far and Lu Ten had to drag them back on a piece of driftwood.

"Swimming."

"Then that settles it." Katara broke away from the hug and looked Zuko square in the face. "Tonight, we're going on a midnight swim."

~*~

Zuko did not know what he expected. He had snuck out in the dead of night more than he would care to admit, but this time felt different.

This time he was not searching for food to survive, or breaking into a fortress, or even trying to avoid anyone who would maim on sight.

This time was for the pure joy of it.

Zuko and Katara waited until the others were asleep then silently crept out. It was a starry night and the strong ocean breeze made the atmosphere feel electric. Katara suddenly broke out into a sprint, urging Zuko to follow her. He raced her to the water’s edge, neither slowing down as they crashed into the icy waters. Zuko and Katara swam until the beach house was just a distance speck. The stars reflected off the ocean, making it hard to tell where the sky ended and ocean began.

“This is incredible!” Katara beamed as she floated on her back.

Zuko watched her flourish in her element. Sometimes he finds it hard to believe it was the same girl who accidently froze her brother instead of the soldiers on his warship so long ago.

“Yeah, it is.”

Zuko inhaled deeply then exhaled a small jet of fire, warming his insides.

“What was that?”

“Breath of Fire, a trick Uncle taught me to keep my temperature up in the cold. It’s how I survived the Cooler on the Boiling Rock.”

“Huh. I thought Sokka made that up.” Katara said mostly to herself.

Zuko laughed and Katara splashed him.

“I’m serious! You know how he exaggerates when he tells stories!”

Zuko splashed her back playfully. He soon learned the hard way not to challenge waterbenders to a splash war at night.

“You just love fighting people in their natural elements, don’t you?”

“How was I suppose to know snow is made of water?!”

Katara bended a handful of water into snow then threw it at his face.

“I know that now ‘Tara!” Zuko laughed as he brushed the snow off.

“You seriously didn’t earlier?” she asked smiling.

Zuko simply shrugged as he swam in circles around her. He paused and looked at the horizon.

“It’ll be morning soon. We better start swimming back if we want to make it to the house before the others wake up.”

“Leave it to me!”

Katara bended a flat piece of ice and hopped on. Zuko got on in front of her and held on to the edges as Katara summoned a large wave to carry them back to shore.

“Hurry we’re gonna be late!” The sky was already starting to lighten up.

Zuko grabbed a still laughing Katara’s hand as they raced back to the beach house.

#zutara drabble december #day 19 #zuko #katara #zutara #zutara fanfic #ao3 fanfic

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julieandthefandoms · 4 years

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Together

A Suzukka Royalty/Canon Divergence/Nothing really changes except for the fact that It is more modern, and Suki, Sokka, and Zuko have never met each other until this moment AU! It can also be found here on Ao3 :)

Reference: The time zones I used were based off of the IRL time difference between where Inuit live (Canada), and Japan. In addition, Bocchan Dongo is a popular Japanese dessert, so that's what Sokka, and Suki were eating in that one flashback of the kitchens. Both of these facts were found through brief google searches, so please correct me if I got anything wrong. Thank you!

Tagging @sukisbxtch @thomaslightwood @emiikas @zafirafoxx @older-brother-kit @ronan-lynch-deserves-the-world @sterllast @potter-redheads (I didn’t know whether the people who simply liked this wanted to be tagged, so I tagged them anyway, and I’m sorry if you didn’t want that)!

Sokka had never expected to fall in love. He certainly did not expect to fall for someone during a business trip, nor did he expect it to happen as quickly as it did.

It had all started out perfectly normal, Sokka packing to stay at the Fire Nation Royal Palace for a few months to discuss the economic, and political affairs between the Fire Nation and the Water Tribe after nearly a century of war. He had become the Ambassador of the Water Tribe not too long ago at the ripe age of 19, and this meeting seemed like a good opportunity to gain hands on experience. It was, of course, but Sokka hadn’t expected to fall for the nation, never mind meeting two people who would bury themselves into his heart in that fateful trip.

~*^*~

The day Sokka met Suki happened to be the day he’d arrived at the palace. He was shaking with nervous energy, though it was underlaid with an odd thrill at the sight of the extravagant palace, and the opportunity held before him. He was practically bouncing on his feet, swinging a suitcase containing important documents for the meeting the next day. His other belongings had been shipped to the palace prior to his arrival, a custom extended to all traveling business people. The day was new, and he was ready to fix the relations between the two nations. Unfortunately, Sokka seemed to have forgotten the shift in time zones, and, since the Fire Nation was 13 hours ahead of the Water Tribe, had arrived at 3 in the morning.

Sokka had approached the palace with a thrumming energy, an energy that could brighten almost every room. The streets, however, were empty, aside from Sokka. The soft flames of the street lights bathing the pavement and surrounding shrubbery in a warm, sunset orange. He grew more suspicious the closer he got to the palace, the eerie quiet of the place finally registering. Hot, dry winds rustled the leaves, the feeling of eyes on him made his back crawl. He chalked up the concern to the wind, bouncing animatedly towards the large wood door that greeted him.

The palace was lavish, lined with portraits of the past Fire Lords, each adorning colors of fire and gold and ash. Sokka once again noted the lack of people, though the portraits felt like they were watching his every move, anyway.

It’s a bit odd that there aren’t any guards-

Fans flashed across his vision. A blur danced before him, spinning the fans in wide arcs, until they were caught in his torso. In an instant, Sokka was pinned on the floor, his back flat against the cold tile. A girl around his age, two fans placed at her hips, was on top of him, holding his arms, and feet to the ground.

“You’re awfully obvious for an assassin.”

She was fierce in her words, a tone of judgement laced within thinly veiled fury piercing through her voice. Sokka couldn't help but notice how personal that fury seemed, as though he had killed her baby sea turtle. The warrior’s tunic fluttered in the breeze brought in through the entrance Sokka hadn’t gotten the opportunity to close yet. Even though his life was probably in danger at the moment, he couldn’t help but feel mildly attracted to the girl who'd just kicked his ass. Yeah, his survival instincts may not have been the best.

Sokka shook himself out of his daze, finally registering the situation he was currently in. “Assassin? I’m not trying to assasinate anybody! The war is over, there is a Firelord who is not trying to cause mass genocide, things are great! No murder for me, thank you, I am only a humble representative of the Water Tribe-”

The warrior muffled him before he could finish his ramblings. Cautiously, she stood up, though she didn’t let go of Sokka’s arms, holding them behind his back.

“Alright, Firelord Zuko did tell us to expect the Ambassador of the Water Tribe to arrive soon, so I suppose I can let you go” she released his hands, a smirk lighting her face. “Besides, I doubt any assassin would be so bad at their job.”

“Hey,” Sokka raised a hand to his chest in mock offense. “I’d be a great assassin!”

The warrior laughed, the pale beams of the moon brushing her features in a soft light, almost as if they were glowing. Her dark hair, a difficult color to see in the dimness of the palace, shone auburn from where sconces held precious flames. She composed herself before stretching out a hand.

“Suki, head guard of the Fire Lord Zuko.”

Sokka clasped the warrior’s -Suki’s- hand in his own.

“Sokka, Ambassador of the Water Tribe.”

~*^*~

It would have all been alright if it had stopped there, if he had only fallen for Suki. Unfortunately, life didn’t seem to work like that. In the beginning, it seemed to be going pretty well, Sokka and Suki talking to each other before and after every meeting, even sneaking to the kitchens after everyone but the guards had fallen asleep. They’d laugh together, and steal dessert from each other’s plates, simply enjoying one another’s presence.

“Okay, so, tell me more about your life on Kyoshi Island. I want to learn more about you badass warrior ways.”

“Alright, but only if you give me your Bocchan Dango.”

Sokka pouted. In his time at the Fire Nation Royal Palace, he’d gotten quite attached to the dessert, but complied nonetheless, because a. he wanted to know more about the Kyoshi Warriors, and b. there was more dessert in the freezer.

Sokka smiled at the memory. It had been so simple when he’d thought he’d only fell for Suki.

But, of course, things could never be that simple.

During the weeks in which he’d stayed at the palace, Sokka had not only grown close to the guard, but had also managed to become friends (acquaintances? He wasn’t completely sure what it was called, but they definitely had held enthusiastic conversations in the hall multiple times) with the Fire Lord himself. Zuko was a better Fire Lord than Sokka could have ever imagined, and he enjoyed his company as a friendly face in the palace.

~*^*~

Sokka and Zuko’s budding friendship had begun during Sokka’s first meeting with the Fire Lord and the rest of the Council, the time passing in a discussion of rewriting the biased history, and attempting to establish plans in order to properly assist the nations affected due to the war. Sokka respected that about Zuko, the extent at which he was willing to go to right his wrongs, and he had left the meeting content with the plans discussed.

“So, I hear you attempted to assassinate me last night.”

A voice brought Sokka out of his thoughts, causing him to lift his head from its usual thinking pose (head turned down, and hand on his chin) to face Lord Zuko himself. It was a playful tone, the hint of a smile on his lips.

“I tried, but alas, your head guard is too good for my lowly assassin ways,” Sokka sent back a smile of his own.

“Suki told me you were horrible at it, though I don’t think ambassadors are trained in that sort of thing, so I guess it’ll pass.” He paused for a moment, continuing once more. “Your policies in that meeting seem to be really promising; I’ll be looking forward to working with you in the future, Ambassador Sokka.”

“As will I, Fire Lord Zuko.”

Eventually, their conversations moved to a more friendly tone, the two exchanging topics on the policies they were passionate about exploring, though Sokka’s problem hadn’t started then either. No, no, no, no, no, they had started the moment Zuko had showed up one night on Suki and Sokka’s kitchen story time sessions.

The night fell as it usually did, the two rushing to the kitchens an hour later then they usually did (Sokka may or may not have overslept). Suki pushed open the wooden doors, revealing the familiar room. A shadowy figure jumped, as Suki raised her hands in alarm, setting her feet in a fighting stance. Sokka, unwilling to let her fight alone, grabbed the nearest object next to him- which turned out to be a fork- and brandished the utensil as though it were a mighty sword.

“Wait, guys, it’s me.”

The figure moved out of the shadows, revealing the face of the Fire Lord himself. Suki immediately relaxed, arms falling to her side, as she leaned against the table beside her, a light smile on her face. Sokka dropped his fork and shot him a smile as well.

Zuko returned their greetings with an awkward wave. “I’m sorry, I couldn’t sleep,” he gestured vaguely. “I can leave if you-”

“No please, join us. We’d love to keep you company.”

To Sokka’s surprise, Suki was the first to answer. He had always assumed that neither Zuko, nor Suki knew each other well enough to be comfortable with this, but the casualness in her tone said otherwise. Huh. That explained why she was so protective towards Zuko when they’d first met, much deeper than simply a protector-protectee type way.

The three sat at a table, exchanging stories about each other, more personal than it had ever been with just Zuko or just Suki. They fell into a steady rhythm of sorts under the light of the comforting fire. Sokka told tales of how he’d always felt inferior to his talented friend group. Suki detailed her life in Kyoshi Island, and the members she’d lost during battle. Zuko kept the topic vague though, telling them about his banished mother, cruel father, and his sister, but never specifying much of anything. They didn’t push him to either, Sokka and Suki, and instead waited for him to come to them on his own.

The three continued meeting for the next few months, all of them opening up a bit more with each day, until they all found strength in their nights together. It was on one of those nights that Sokka had noticed the fire from the hearth lighting Zuko’s hair a burgundy, only a shade darker than Suki’s, noticed the crinkle of his eyes when he smiled, noticed the-sPIRITS ABOVE, HE LIKED THE FIRE LORD.

~*^*~

Sokka spent the next week partially panicking, and partially planning how to disclose this to the closest companions he’d had in years.

He’d already known he had liked Suki for a while, loved her fiery protectiveness, but he hadn’t thought to think that he’d like Zuko’s steady flame as well. He’d once heard the phrase, ‘A house divided could not stand,’ but this was different than that. This wasn’t a house divided, it was a heart having enough love that it could love two without lessening it for either. And he was absolutely, completely in love with them both. They may have only known each other for five months, but he still could feel a hole in his heart when he thought of leaving them. Sokka had fallen fast, and hard, that much was certain.

The day of his departure came closer by the day, and he couldn’t put this off any further. Worst case scenario, Sokka has to change his name to Wang Fire, get plastic surgery (or grow a beard, one of those two), adopt a child, erase all records of said adoption, and move to the Earth Kingdoms (one couldn’t be the ambassador of their country without having amazing plans).

Needless to say, he really hoped he didn’t have to resort to his backup plan.

Sokka had sent the letters out that morning, telling the messenger boy-Lee- to not send them until after the weekly palace break in debriefings. And so he waited by the duck pond, watching the water swirl with every paddle to drown out his thoughts.

“Hey, Sokka,” Suki had her arm around Zuko, the two approaching the pond to join him. “What did you want to talk about?”

Sokka took a deep breath, before speaking again. The whole story came out, his friendship with Suki, and how it evolved to romantic feelings. How Zuko had become close to them as well, and the day in the kitchen when Sokka realized his feelings for him as well. How he loved them both, unwaveringly, even though they’d known each other for five months.

“-and I get if you hate me now because of this, so it’s okay if you don’t want to talk to me any longer.”

Sokka had his eyes squeezed shut, preparing for the worst, but all he felt were two hands intertwining with his own.

“Hey, it’s okay. We’re not going to leave you for this.”

It was Suki, her reassuring voice causing him to open his eyes.

Zuko, who had gently placed a hand on his shoulder, spoke next.

“We’re not going to leave you, not ever.”

There was a pause, a sense of relief spreading through Sokka. They didn’t hate him! Well, that plan went way better than he thought it would. He should have known, they were both so compassionate, and understanding, it would’ve been hard to see them not let him down gently.

Suki was the first to break the silence. “And for what it’s worth, I like you too. Both of you.”

Zuko gave a nod to them both before speaking as well. “I care about the two of you more than I thought I’d ever be able to care for a person.”

“So,” Sokka’s voice almost broke from emotion, “how are we supposed to do this?”

“I’m not sure,” Zuko said hesitantly, “but we’ll figure it out together.”

Suki reached over to grasp Zuko’s hand as well. “Together.”

And they sat there, enjoying each other’s presence, hand in hand. It was positively perfect… that is, until the ducks began getting annoyed over the lack of attention they were getting, and splashed the three of them as an act revenge.

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justteamavatar · 4 years

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Thoughts on ruins of the empire 2?

***I decided to hold this off until the comic actually came out, but I’ll be sure to tag this with spoilers!***

I found it to be a pretty solid continuation of RotE part 1 despite having some small issues/concerns with it. It introduced a lot of cool topics into the story and it’s really making me excited for what RotE part 3 has in store for us!

* * * * *

It was nice to see Asami kicking some butt on the airship with Bolin and Mako, but I was a little upset by how quick that scene ended (though I totally understand that they only have so many pages to work with). I guess in a way, the shortness of the fight would make sense – they were surrounded in an enclosed environment, taken by surprise, and Bolin didn’t have any access to his natural element either. It would put the team at a disadvantage since the element of earth can easily wipe out large groups of enemies.

I do like how that scene enforced the distrust that the team (and particularly Asami) naturally has towards Kuvira. Even if we, as an audience, knows that Kuvira doesn’t have any malicious intent, it’s something she’ll have to prove to the rest of the cast. I think a big part of Kuvira’s arc is for her to understand the effects of her actions in Book 4 and take responsibility for what she did – simply apologizing won’t take away the pain she caused towards a lot of these characters. The flashback scenes in this comic and RotE part 1 kind of suggests that Kuvira’s always had troubles with taking responsibility for her actions (which seems to be a reason for why her parents gave her away to Su - though we still don’t have a clear idea on how they really were as parental figures).

Even though I’m not too big of a fan on the whole redemption arc idea, it does seem that Kuvira is trying her best to earn back some trust from our main cast. After she escaped Guan’s camp, she could have easily gone off on her own, but she decided to speak with Su and find her way back to Korra to help stop Guan and his forces. She seemed to address Asami a lot before she gets brainwashed, so perhaps this is showcasing Kuvira being a bit more aware about how much she hurt Asami by killing her father. I think the two of them will have to have a scene in RotE part 3, but I am a little worried that we’ll be hit with another “I guess I had you pegged wrong” moment by Asami to Kuvira…

* * * * *

As for the whole brainwashing thing, I’m split two ways about it. On one hand, I honestly do find it interesting to see how Asami, Mako and Bolin’s loyalty/love for Korra is broken due to the effects of the brainwashing technology – especially when it comes to Korra/Asami (and to an extent, Opal and Bolin - considering what happens in that final fight scene). Seeing her walk towards Guan’s army on her own to try to rescue Asami, Mako and Bolin was badass! On the other hand, I see where some others are coming from when it comes to being annoyed about the Krew getting benched for Kuvira to have a redemption story. I think it’s a particularly sore spot when it comes to Asami – first she was kidnapped in Turf Wars, and now we see her being brainwashed in RotE.

Poor Korra and Asami just can’t seem to catch a break! That conversation between Korra and brainwashed!Asami in the airship really made my heart ache. Even if Korra know that it isn’t really Asami who’s saying those words, we can still seem how much it stings for her to hear them, nonetheless. She just (understandably) looked so distraught over the whole situation – from having to face her off in the battlefield to having to lock her up in that prison. This is the first time where the person she loves the most is no longer by her side and considering how both Korra and Asami expressed how they can overcome anything as long as they’re together, I’m sure Korra feels quite a bit lost about everything. I really hope we’ll get a nice conversation between the two of them in RotE part 3. I don’t know if Asami will be able to remember what happened to her while she was brainwashed, but I can’t help but wonder if this will be something that will weigh down on her and Korra’s minds even after the trilogy is over.

* * * * *

The vision that Wu had of Queen Hou-Ting was unexpected, but pretty cool! That encounter really seems to be challenging Wu when it comes to his responsibilities being a king. While he might genuinely believe that forming a democracy is what’s best for the Earth Kingdom, it might be too quick of a change for its people. And if that’s the case, Wu may have to confront the possibility of him having to take on the role of being a King, even if he’s apprehensive/fearful of it.

Kind of relating to this, I was surprised to see how fast Toph agreed to run in the election considering her dislike towards politics and people in general! Korra’s idea to use Wu’s vision of Hon-Ting to get Toph on board with the plan was clever, especially when she connected it to the idea of the swamp teaching you things that you need to learn if you’re opened to listening. It seems that Toph wants to challenge the vision’s words about Earth Kingdom people wanting to be “safe” and “secure” rather than going “outside of their comfort zone”, seeing as how she’s agreed to going outside of her own comfort zone to run as a candidate. I will say, out of all of this, Toph agreeing to run in the election allowed for the cutest panel in the entire book to be drawn:

(Korra helping Toph to sign her signature is just too adorable!!!)

Though, I’m not sure how the election is going to go now that Wu himself is being brainwashed. Before, he wanted to call off the election entirely, but now he’ll be in complete support of Guan.

* * * * *

I’m excited to see how Bataar Jr will play in on helping to reverse the brainwashing – I wonder if he’ll end up recruiting Varrick as well, considering how they worked together in Book 4. I wasn’t sure if the writers were going to have Kuvira and Bataar Jr confront each other in the comics, but I’m glad they went with it! They’ll be a lot of hard feelings between the Kuvira, Bataar Jr as well as Su and I can’t wait to see how it will be fleshed out in the next comic.

On a bit of a side note, something that caught my eye was the “Get down, mom!” dialogue that was pointed towards Kuvira in the action scene at the end. It’s weird because we see Su holding Toph down to get her out of harms in the same panel. I don’t know if this was a mistake and the bubble was actually supposed to be pointing towards Su, or if it was intentional to have it directed towards Kuvira. If it’s the latter, I really hope it’s something that’s expanded upon in part 3 because I feel like that’s a pretty significant thing for Kuvira to say to Su.

* * * * *

But yeah, overall, I feel like this comic introduced a lot of interesting plot points, though with so many different topics set in place, my biggest concern is how they’ll be able to tackle everything within RotE part 3. Everything from stopping Guan, reversing the brainwashing technology, expanding upon Kuvira’s relationship with Su + her family and the Krew and what happens with the election and Earth Kingdom after Guan is stopped – there is a lot to unfold here within an 70-ish pages.

I know some people have speculated that this all may even continue on into the next trilogy. Personally, I would love to see the next series based in the Fire Nation! We could see more of Zuko and Izumi (maybe we’ll even get introduced to Izumi’s daughter?) and who knows, maybe even Asami will finally get her own story to explore due to her Fire Nation heritage! Either way, I’ve really been enjoying how engaging these comics have been! It honestly feels like I’m watching a Book 5 continuation of TLOK!

#korra comics #korra #korrasami #tlok #lok #rote 2 #rote #ruins of the empire #ruins of the empire 2 #korra spoilers #ruins of the empire spoilers #spoilers #korra comic spoilers #rote spoilers #rote 2 spoilers #ask

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chipmunkfanno1love · 4 years

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Rapunzel's Tangled Adventure Speculation: Varian and Vex Shipping

Though Varian has often been shipped with Cassandra, lately it has been a mixed bag of very strong opinions regarding the ship, especially some negative ones about Varian being too young for Cassandra who is in her 20’s while he’s in his teens. Personally I don’t have a problem with them becoming a couple, so long as they wait until Varian is legally an adult (such as it was with Ferb and Vanessa in “Phineas and Ferb”). I could see them as a couple if the creators of the show flashfoward to the future with an older Rapunzel and Eugene are telling their story and the fates of their friends to their children.

Personally I want to keep out of the arguments, and talk about this from a purely fictional opinion. While I do think Cassandra and Varian had great chemistry together in “Great Expositions”, so far Varian’s feelings for Cass are just an innocent crush (I even heard a rumour that Chris Sonneberg said it wouldn’t go any further than this) which Cass doesn’t requite. So I think the chances of these two becoming a couple, even when Varian’s older is pretty slim. Still, I do hope these two become friends again.

Anyway, the point of my topic is to bring up a potential new love-interest for Varian, and while I am pretty open about his love life and who his future girlfriend could be, I’m pretty keen on this ship I’m about to suggest.

The ship is between:

Varian

and

Vex

I imagine this ship is going to have a lot of mixed feedback. Some may not like it because they’re strong for the ship between Cassandra and Varian, while others won't like the ship because they simply don’t like Vex. Hear me out though, here are some good reasons why I think Varian and Vex could make a good couple.

1. The two appear to be close in age to each other. I imagine they’d be some cute teenage romantic tension between these two. It would be adorable to see the growing puppy love (which may eventually blossom into true love) between them.

2. Vex seems to me like a younger counterpart to Varian’s old crush, Cassandra, so I wouldn’t be surprised if Varian becomes attracted to her. Plus the fact that they both look up to her could give them something to bond over (though it might also cause some jealousy too if Vex develops a crush on Varian).

3. I get the feeling that Varian is attracted to tough women. While his crush on Cass was partly to do with her saving his life, I also think it could be that he admired her for her strength and courage. I reckon if he got to know Vex he would come to admire her own strong qualities. Perhaps like Cassandra before her, Vex could also learn to admire Varian’s compassion and smarts (though she may find his optimism annoying at first). I reckon in time these two opposites could attract.

4. Both are former juvenile delinquents of sorts, what with Varian taking over and almost destroying an entire kingdom, stealing a precious ancient relic, not to mention kidnapping Queen Arianna and later attempting to murder her and Cassandra. While Vex as far as I know hasn’t done that, she had her fair share of crimes including bribery and playing part of a kidnapping. Plus who knows what else (her selling weapons suggests a few possibilities). Over time I can see these two learning to empathise with each over their past crimes and connect over their desires to redeem themselves in their current roles, e.g. Varian in helping Princess Rapunzel and Vex in being Deputy to Captain Quaid the Sheriff of Vardaros.

Fun Fact: I reckon their ship name could be V.V (Varian and Vex). Unless of course Vex isn’t Vex’s real name. I believe she could have changed her name, much like two other former criminals we know (Eugene and Lance).

Here are several movie and TV couples that I think could be good examples of how these two could interact as a couple and/or even friends:

Zuko and Mai from “Avatar: The Last Airbender

The one thing I have noticed is that Varian and Zuko’s falls from grace and eventual redemption stories have a lot of similarities to each other, especially since they both had something to do with their estranged relationships with their fathers’ (though I am no way saying that Quirin is cruel and abusive like Lord Ozai was). Both are also rebellious risk-takers who want to do the right thing but often take misguided actions which have terrible consequences to them, though both are eager to make up for their past mistakes and help their respective main character (Rapunzel/Aang) in their destiny. Of course, nerdy alchemist Varian is much more friendly, optimistic and clumsy compared to the hot-tempered, moody and athletically-inclined Fire Prince turned Fire Lord, Zuko. Still, he certainly has his angsty moments which are very similar to Zuko’s.

I think it makes sense that Varian gets a girlfriend with a lot of similarities to Zuko’s girlfriend, Mai. Mai and Vex are certainly similar in the sense that both are moody, cynical action girls who both seem to have trouble expressing their feelings. Maybe Vex’s cynicism is the result of growing up in her rough town. She had to be tough in order to survive, plus there is a hint that maybe she’s an orphan, so there’s potential that she could be carrying a lot of emotional baggage and even fears of abandonment. She probably pretends not to care about anything because she’s scared if she does she’ll get hurt, similar to how Mai pretends not to care because she was taught to repress her feelings from a young age by her controlling mother.

Either way, like Zuko and Mai, I think both Varian and Vex could bring the best out in each other. Varian could help Vex to open up more, while Vex could help Varian recover from his past wounds (in her own Vex way). I’m sure she can empathise with Varian’s dark past as she wasn’t always on the right side of law herself, or at least her neutral siding didn’t exactly make her stand out as a good guy, until she made the decision to become Captain Quaid’s deputy and therefore firmly planted herself on the good side.

I can definitely see Varian and Vex having a fight similar to Zuko and Mai’s during the party scene of “The Beach”. Also I can also see Vex wearing the pants in the relationship like Mai does (Mai’s warning to Zuko in the series finale never to break up with her again sounds like something I imagine Vex saying to Varian). I believe they will show affection to each other in the same way Zuko and Mai do. This confession of love from Mai sounds like something that Vex would definitely say herself: “I don’t hate you.”

Wednesday Addams and Joel Glicker from “The Addams Family Values”

A lot of people have compared Vex’s looks and personality to Wednesday Addams from The Addams Family franchise:

While I certainly won’t deny the similarities, I believe that Vex was inspired by Mattie Ross from the 2010 version of the film True Grit:

Nonetheless, I can’t deny there are similarities between Vex and Wednesday. I just hope Vex isn’t quite as morbid, lol. Still, I do wonder if the writers do bring in more of the similarities into later episodes (if Vex does make future apperances).

Personally I don’t find that Joel Glicker was the most well-developed character ever. He was more the overprotected nerdy boy who fell for the dark gothic girl. Still, I guess that Varian has similarities to Joel in the sense they are both nerdy characters who are a little insecure and intense (though I do hope Varian has better self-esteem than Joel). I think it would be funny if Varian had a reaction to seeing Vex for the first time similar to Joel’s when he met Wednesday. Somehow I doubt it will happen, but it’s still funny and kind of cute at the same time

Wednesday meets Joel. See 1:59 to 2:17:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us3JQh-m2FM&list=PLlXqHikVVQDQerwZg0GuBzJPXel5MIPHi&index=6&t=142s

I wouldn’t call Wednesday and Joel’s relationship the best, and I certainly wouldn’t want the ending of their relationship to happen between Varian and Vex, but underneath all the morbidity and insecurity, I think there’s a lot of cute moments between these two. They are definitely an interesting example of opposites attract, plus there is some adorable awkwardness between them that I think could be brought to Varian and Vex’s relationship. I personally see Wednesday and Joel’s relationship being an example of how Varian and Vex’s friendship and eventually relationship starts out, perhaps even hinted at as spoof material within the show.

Some examples could be Varian attempting the “yawn and stretch move” on Vex, but she holds up a knife and says “Touch me with that arm, and you’ll lose it.” or simply “Don’t even think about it.” causing Varian to fearfully back away from her on the seat. Though perhaps Varian does something that really impresses Vex, whether it’s showing his braver, angsty side (which I believe that Vex would find attractive) and/or he uses one of his inventions to help the town of Vardaros. Because Vex is a little reluctant to show she’s impressed, she simply says thank you and a half-hearted comment to Varian for his good work. Though Varian can tell that how moved Vex is from a small smile she shares with him and a sign that she’s warming up to the possibility of being affectionate with him, as shown by Wednesday here:

Even Wednesday and Joel’s farewell and first kiss I could see Varian and Vex spoofing, though in their own individual way.

Wednesday and Joel’s first kiss

https://youtu.be/ZibUVA54BWY

So while I hope they’re not exactly like this couple, it would be cute if we saw some spoof references like this. :)

Arnold Shortman and Helga Pataki from “Hey Arnold!”

I’ll be honest with you guys, I’m probably one of the few people who hasn’t seen the most of the Hey Arnold! TV series and movies. I’ve only seen a few episodes. Still, from what I’ve seen of these two, they seem to have similar personalities to Varian and Vex, plus I imagine their relationship being similar too.

Like Arnold, Varian is friendly, optimistic and always there to help out his friends. While Helga and Vex are similar in that they are both tough, aggressive girls who don’t like to open up about their feelings.

I could definitely see Vex being rather mean to Varian at first, calling him “dork” or “nerd”, but overtime maybe she’ll start to lessen up on the insults and starts to respect Varian for his smarts and the positive affect his inventions could possibly have on Vardaros, though she still keeps him at an emotional distance due to trust issues, and it will probably take a bit of time but perhaps Varian’s mixture of kindness and tough love towards Vex could eventually be the thing that slowly breaks down her emotional walls.

I could probably see Vex developing a crush on Varian (though perhaps not as obsessively as Helga though) but has a hard time showing it. She’ll probably show him affection by punching him in the arm, which is meant to be friendly but hurts because Vex is stronger than she looks.

Maybe she might convince Captain Quaid to give Varian a job as the Alchemist of Vardaros, saying that he can help the people of Vardaros with his inventions and alchemy. Though this is possibly true, I believe she would more suggest the idea to Quaid so she can convince Varian to stay in Vardoros. Varian considers the offer, partly because he believes he can be helpful to the people of Vardaros and the other half because he’s starting to fall for Vex and wants to stay with her. I think he turns down the offer at first (which will probably hurt Vex) but promises he’ll return to visit once he’s helped Rapunzel achieve her destiny and reunite her with Cassandra. Though he may even decide to stay in Vardaros as their professional Alchemist after the mission is finished, eventually becoming Vex’s boyfriend.

A bonus unofficial couple I could compare them to is:

Hiro Hamada and Karmi from “Big Hero 6: The Series”

There’s no denying that Hiro and Varian are very alike. Both are intelligent and creative child prodigy inventors who are both adorkable and clumsy. Both have lost and/or almost lost family members, and as a result have almost committed murder in order to avenge their loved one’s, though have tried their best to make up for their past mistakes. They are also the one of youngest in their respective group of friends (though not quite with Varian as Keira/Angry and Catalina/Red have now officially joined the group and are a few years younger than him).

While Karmi is rather different from Vex, they do share anti-social and moody tendencies. Deep down underneath their moody exterior though, both have the drive to do the right thing.

Like Hiro and Karmi, I could imagine Varian and Vex having a rivalry of sorts during their first meeting. Perhaps Varian gets jealous over Catalina (Red) and Kiera (Angry) looking up to Vex over him as an older sibling/mentor figure due to them respecting her “tough as nails woman” exterior. Also maybe Vex could get jealous if Quaid starts paying more attention to Varian and his inventions, e.g. maybe he could invent a special smoker to calm Quaid’s bees, impressing the Captain of Vadaros greatly and gaining Vex’s envious resentment.

Over time though, like Hiro and Karmi, these two could learn to respect each other and their talents, eventually forming a friendship, which over time shows signs of romantic attraction between the two teens.

Even if Varian and Vex don’t become a couple, I would still love it if somehow they did meet on the show and eventually become friends. I’m sure it would be cool to see how they interact with someone in their own age group.

What do you guys think? I’d love to hear your feedback, but please refrain from harsh negativity.

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shewhowasbornlucky · 6 years

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(s)fortunata

She was never visited. Not that she expected them otherwise. They had all betrayed her in the end. Her brother. Mai. Ty Lee. Her father. Her friends had chosen her brother, just like her mother did. For all that was worth, and thinking positive, Azula was sure that, even if they did want to go, she wouldn’t have wanted them to see her like that.

The first few days, she barely had any sleep. She couldn’t. Her room there was too lit. They wanted to keep an eye on her, for obvious reasons. It wasn’t easy to fall asleep when you were tied to the bed, either. Soon enough there was a purple shadow under her eyes, disgracing and mocking her, and a redness to her nose. Her normally graceful demeanor was gone. How come she could preserve it when her entire life had turned upside down? A trail of dried blood surrounding her otherwise lovely lips served as a reminder of what was done to her.

“It’s all for your own good, Azula,” said one of her nurses, securing whatever it was that kept her tied to the bed. She wanted to note that a “Princess” was lacking, but the medicine was strong, as much as her eyelids. Princess Azula had had enough of fighting already. Surrender was new, and although it was completely uncomfortable, she had no other option.

The sooner she accepted it, the better.

“Your brother is doing the right thing looking out for you.”

Azula would have snapped if she had the strength to do so. The nurse’s words angered to no end. However, there was no fire left to run through her veins. No words to use against her. No knives nor weapons. No respect to her name. She could only stare as she let her do her work. She even hummed softly at herself, as if Azula wasn’t there. As if she didn’t matter. At the back of her head, she could still smell smoke – could still feel the bitter cold. The war had ended. Azula had lost. Azula had lost, and she must pay for what she did.

It was on her third month there that someone came expecting to see her.

“Well, aren’t you gonna ask me who that is?” asked her nurse, in a cheerful tone that almost made Azula gag. No matter how excited she might’ve felt – she was afraid of hoping for too much. Still, her heart beat fast, and she almost felt the ghost of a smile creeping to her lips.

“We must get you all pretty, don’t you think? It’s not every day you’ve got any visitors,” she said, slowly helping her sit. “Let alone, male.”

Zuko.

It had to be him.

The prospect almost made her cry. Azula could’ve sworn she felt her breath hitching, and a broken sigh escaped her lips before she could prevent it. She did as she was told, letting the nurses put her hair in a tight bun. A light adorning her face.

But it was all for nothing.

Her hope fell down as soon as she saw a stranger on the other side of the room, carrying scrolls.

“I’m expecting to talk to the princess alone,” he said, and the nurses offered a small nod and left.

Azula let her shoulders fall, and bit hard at her lips.

“Who are you?” she said, and her own voice sounded coarse and harsh – dried in a way. Words stumbled, foreign to her tongue. It had been so long since she last spoke.

“Is it safe?” the man asked, looking at his surroundings. He had a wary look on his face, mixed with something Azula couldn’t quite place. It seemed like disgust. Or revulsion, but she couldn’t say for sure. He did seem uncomfortable. And stiff. So stiff he reminded her of the war.

“I asked you a question,” she said, closing her eyes. She needed not to think about it. There was no use in it. If ever, it only left her with enough self-hatred to attempt to do something she wouldn’t regret. For now, she wanted to hear whatever it was the stranger wanted. And she wanted to hear it right away.

If he hadn’t bothered in a greeting, it must have been important.

Or it could be that nobody thought of her as a person anymore. Azula didn’t want to dwell too much on that.

“So did I,” was his response. Cold, calculated. A man who had some power, Azula finally decided.

She glared at him, and if looks could kill…

“I’m here to talk about your oncoming trial.”

“My oncoming trial? I didn’t know I was having one,” she said, and there was humor in her voice. A sharpness attached to it, too.

“Firelord Zuko—”

“Why isn’t he here?” she shot, her chin up and proud. If he cared, he would have visited. If he cared, he wouldn’t have sent someone to deal with her.

(She almost thanked him for that. For not caring. For choosing himself over her. for doing the right thing. For not letting his emotions cloud him – but she didn’t. She missed him too much for that. She had always been selfish, anyway).

“He sent me, your Highness,” the man finally explained with a bow. “I’m your lawyer.”

“I didn’t hire you.”

“Your brother, our Firelord, did.”

“Well, I don’t want you,” she said with a shrug.

“That doesn’t concern you,” he said, not missing a beat.

“If my trail is the one that’s—”

“No offense, princess, but there’s not much you can do. It is already settled,” he said, not bothering to look at her. “Now, let me explain myself.”

“By all means, do. I’m dying to listen,” she replied, and her words were as biting as she could manage.

“I’m your lawyer, princess. Your brother took the effort to hire the most capable man for the task.”

“Now, that’s new.” Zuko cared enough for her not to go to prison, but not enough to go visit her. It didn’t surprise her. In fact, she believed he was only doing this –hiring lawyers and all – so he didn’t have to deal with the shame of having relatives in prison. It wouldn’t do well to his reputation. His image would be tainted.

The realization hurt, as much as realizing she was really all alone.

“And I will do my job, whether you like it or not. But I need you to cooperate,” the man finished, looking for her eyes. She kept her head low and shook it softly.

“Well, I don’t want to.”

“I’m afraid you’re not understanding me, princess.”

He had the nerve to talk to her like that! And she couldn’t do anything to prevent him. She had only her tongue. “Which part do you think I’m not understanding?” she asked, raising an eyebrow.

“You could go to prison for your crimes,” he spoke as if he was talking to a child.

He was, but Azula was offended anyway.

“And where exactly am I, sir?” she asked, a bitter smile resembling a growl on her lips. “I don’t care. Here, there. It’s all the same.” A gilded jail. A golden cage. She was still trapped.

“You don’t know what you’re saying. You’re lucky you’re here and not in some filthy cell.”

“Oh, I beg your pardon!” she sneered. “Didn’t realize I had to thank my extremely generous brother for this!”

Azula had lost. And she wasn’t even granted the honor that came with death.

“It could be worse.”

“No, it can’t.”

She went to trial. The room was full of people that had a lot to say about her. In more than one occasion, her eyes were filled with tears, and she had to bite her lips. One gets used to horror once you learn to ignore it. Azula never expected it to get back to her later. She didn’t expect the pain that came with it.

As instructed, she said she hadn’t meant to. She said she was forced. That her father never loved her, but use her nonetheless.

Azula always lied. A small voice on her mind told her so, in a vain attempt at making her feel better. Perhaps what she was most afraid of was a lack of regrets. A fear of accepting that, indeed, her father never loved her. That she had been nothing but a war machine. A weapon he craved himself. A child. A child. A child!

But how could she feel regret, when her triumphs made her father smile at her? when her conquests gave him pride? When pride and love were deeply tied when it came to Ozai? She had felt it was worth it, for it made her father happy. And when Father was happy, he loved his dearest child. How could she regret it, when he had treated her like she was the best thing to ever grace Earth? Sure, he had his moments, but…

She was crying, ugly sobs shaking her body. They weren’t understanding. They weren’t understanding anything at all! Under thick tears, she saw her brother’s lower lip tremble, as she kept talking. Why was he crying? He, of all people, should have understood! He, who knew how father was! Surely he couldn’t think of him as a monster. Right, Zuzu?

But…

She was declared mentally unstable. They said she was abused, and she bit down a humorless laugh. No, no. They weren’t understanding. Her father had loved her. Her father had loved her! Her father had loved her because she did everything in her power to deserve it!

It never crossed to her mind that a child didn’t need to do anything to be deserving of love.

It never crossed to her mind that scars do not always look like the one in Zuko’s face.

#princess azula #prince zuko #azula #firelord zuko #avatar: the last airbender #a: tla #atla #tw: abuse #atla fanfiction #atla fanfic

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kristallioness · 7 years

Text

The wolf cries moon

Summary: Aang, Katara and Sokka deal with the aftermath of the Siege of the North.

Word count: 3,052

Author's note: Rewatching ATLA has made me laugh and cry and given me so many feels already, but it's also such a good source of inspiration. I keep noticing some stuff I haven't given as much thought to before, such as this. It took them 3 weeks to travel to the location where they left the Northern Water Tribe boat to head to General Fong's base (according to Iroh, who said that he and Zuko floated on driftwood for so long). These kids were definitely not alright after the siege was over. They went through so much and it's evident that it affected them later. Sokka must've mourned for Yue every night when they were still at the Northern Water Tribe - he'd fall asleep by staring at the moon (as seen in these storyboards). Plus, he said he thought about her all the time ("The Swamp"). I can't believe how minimal I managed to keep the dialogue. I wanted to set the right mood by describing the surroundings and the interactions between the characters. Well, sometimes actions do speak louder than words.

----------x----------

The light coming from the rising sun that shined over the Northern Water Tribe the next morning didn't seem as bright as many had hoped. As most of the northerners had hoped. A dull grey curtain of clouds covered up most of the sky, but it was possible to differentiate day from night. The moon had already begun losing its full form, but its spirit remained standing strong high up there. She was watching over her people, who were slowly beginning to rebuild.

It'd been two days since Aang and Katara last had a waterbending lesson together. Now it was time to put their skills to the test, but in a calmer, more practical environment. With the help of a few other waterbenders, including Master Pakku, they were almost done repairing the damage to the second igloo among hundreds of others waiting for their turn.

Aang wiped the sweat from his forehead and heaved a sigh of relief as he took a few steps back to let the masters finish off the intricate ornaments on the facade of the building. He looked around the city - everything seemed a bit different than when they'd first arrived.

The normal rhythm of the once bustling tribe hadn't returned. The streets were quieter, the sound of ongoing construction work filling the nearby area. A lot of people remained indoors, trying to get over the shock and forget the horrors they'd encountered during the battle. A group of warriors, including Sokka, continued their search for firebenders trapped in the city, imprisoning the ones they'd already found on the battlefield. Chief Arnook, along with a select few civilians, were helping separated family members find their way back home to reunite with their loved ones. Neighbours offered housing to each other until their igloos were repaired. Everyone simply wanted to get their lives back to normal.

Aang thought that the northerners, all members of the Water Tribes, sure knew how to stick together during difficult times. Their people were so resilient, they didn't stay down for too long.

Katara stepped beside him and leaned against the snow wall behind them, allowing her body to slide down to the ground with a soft thump. She looked just as tired as he was. All three of them had been awake throughout the siege and they'd gotten a few hours of sleep the previous night. It wasn't enough to put their minds at rest from the emotional toll.

Katara reached for the pouch on her back and gulped down some of the fresh cold water. Aang licked his lips. He was thirsty, too. She noticed how he stared at her as she drank, practically begging for some for himself. She gave him a loving smile once she was done and handed the pouch in his hands. The waterbender chuckled at how his face immediately lit up. The airbender quenched his thirst just in time before Pakku called for the two of them to come back and join the group, who were ready to move on to the next igloo.

Aang didn't even blink before his hand met Katara's and she was dragging him behind her as they ran. He was surprised at how fast she'd stood up and grabbed him by his hand to hurry after their master. Did she really get all of that energy from such a small amount of water? The airbender shook his head to clear it from that silly thought and to focus on more important things. Such as the fact that Katara was holding his hand and gazing back at him to be sure that he could keep up with her pace.

Aang didn't wanna think about the following hours of hard labour without her. She'd promised to help out with as many homes as they would get to within the next hour or so. After that, she'd join Yugoda and the other healers to get some practice in that field. The female waterbenders were busy helping the wounded and counting the casualties. Now that Katara was declared a master in combat waterbending, she became more interested in honing her healing abilities as well. Who knew, maybe she'd need them one day.

Katara stopped running to catch her breath once she and Aang were walking beside Pakku. The old master chuckled at his students' enthusiasm. He ran a hand over Katara's back to praise her for all the work she'd done to help with the renovation in the residential area. She could've gone with the healers first thing in the morning, but she insisted on joining his group specifically. Not that it had anything to do with Aang being there, too...

The young waterbender wrapped an arm around his waist in return, almost as if she was trying to give him a hug. The gesture was a bit unexpected, but Pakku appreciated it nonetheless and held Katara close to his side as the trio continued walking. Aang found the image to be rather heartwarming, but his attempt at hiding his wide smile failed miserably.

Pakku noticed how fond of him she'd become once their differences could be cast aside. He was glad, even somewhat relieved that the feeling was mutual. She'd really grown on him, too. Katara reminded him so much of his beloved Kanna, so stubborn and bold. He had no idea whether she was even alive after all those years, whether she'd made it somewhere safe. Until her granddaughter had told him. He knew he'd have to make things right between them as soon as they'd see each other, after decades of being apart. He'll have to take some alone time for tonight to carve her something special, something just as beautiful as the necklace he now saw being worn by the young waterbender next to him.

Katara looked up at Pakku, sensing that he was eyeing something about her. They smiled at each other fondly. Katara still couldn't believe that he thought of her as a master now. Her, the last southern waterbender, a master at the age of 14. She had a hard time getting used to the idea, it all seemed to happen so fast.

It'd only been months ago when she was still back home, trying to learn a beginner's move by herself for hours on end. The idea of becoming a waterbending master being only a vivid dream she'd see every night she went to sleep. Exactly like her dream about the Avatar returning to save the world. But now, she and Aang were friends, travelling the world together. And she would soon be his waterbending teacher. It was surreal to say the least.

She knew Sokka saw her as an equal, capable warrior when they stood on the front line side by side, waiting for the Fire Navy to arrive. What would her dad say when he hears about that? Hakoda had practically scavenged through half the South Pole in hopes of finding her a teacher when she was just a little girl and they'd recently discovered her waterbending abilities. Katara gazed at the cloudy sky, also at Yue, thinking to herself: would mom be proud?

She felt tears forming in the corners of her diamond blue eyes, but she hastily wiped them off before anyone could see. Aang saw it, though. He grabbed her free hand in his, walking closer to both her and Pakku. Katara blinked to get rid of the last tears and returned his gaze with a frown. However, a thankful smile formed on her lips. He always seemed to know how to make her sadness disappear and help her feel better.

By the end of the day, everyone had made significant progress in their work. Aang, Master Pakku and the other masters finished rebuilding a bit more than a dozen houses. They even found time to patch up some of the larger holes in the defensive walls on higher grounds of the city. Katara, Yugoda and the healers had examined more than a hundred patients in the healing hut, sending half of them home to recover from minor injuries. A quarter of them needed to be monitored, so they were taken in for observation. Once the worst cases had been dealt with, Yugoda had allowed Katara to rejoin with Pakku and his group to help with the renovation on the last two buildings. That last hour and a half in the evening working together with Katara had been most enjoyable for Aang.

Before they could retire, Chief Arnook had asked them to join the elite for supper. He shared great news about the tribe being free from Fire Nation soldiers. Aang and Katara were surprised to hear that Sokka had already gone home at nightfall, leaving the rest of the warriors in charge of completing that task. They'd finished their second sweep on the town less than an hour ago. Finally, most of the families had found a place to stay for the night.

When everyone had finished telling stories about their accomplishments, the chief's guests agreed that the first day had been a success. It wasn't much, but at least it was a start.

By the time Aang and Katara returned to their temporary igloo, they were exhausted. If it wasn't so freezing outside, they would've curled up against one another in the corner of the nearest street and fallen asleep right there. They honestly didn't care about anything else but getting some rest after a rough day. Their walk back had been slow, they took the time to gaze at the stars, as well as Yue. She provided them with all the light they needed to get home safely.

As they withdrew the drapes hanging from the door, they saw that Sokka was already sleeping in the dark. He'd probably put out the candles cause he wasn't sure when his sister and best friend would return. Considering everything he'd been through, it was weird that he wasn't snoring like he usually did.

Katara hushed Aang to keep quiet before they stepped inside and tiptoed next to him. She crawled into her sleeping bag while the airbender lay down on the furry floor, quite close to her. Once they felt cosy enough, they simply stared at each other for a while, completely lost in the depths of the other's eyes. For some reason, neither of them felt sleepy. Slumber didn't seem all that appealing anymore.

"You okay?" Katara was the first one to whisper. She reached out her right hand and cupped Aang's cheek.

"Mhmm.." he nodded, his face beginning to flush. Aang hoped that she wouldn't be able to tell the difference in the dark, forgetting that she could still feel the heat radiating against the palm of her hand.

He closed his eyes and tried to fall asleep. He felt how Katara tenderly ran her thumb across his cheekbone, then stroked his cheek with the back of her hand. Next, he heard shuffling and felt something else gently press against his cheek. He opened his shimmering grey eyes and met a pair of diamond blue ones twinkling right back at him. Katara had given him a good-night kiss. She quickly averted her gaze and blushed, too, crawling back inside her sleeping bag.

Aang felt a wave of energy rush through him, like his heart wanted to explode. He laid a hand on his chest as if he was trying to calm himself down, but feeling his racing heartbeat only made it worse. That kiss was enough to help him get through the next couple of days. He finally remembered to smile at Katara to thank her for that boost.

A minute later, her own heart stopped pounding and the weariness was beginning to take over again. The waterbender's eyes fell shut and she almost managed to drift off into her dreams. She peeked at the airbender, who'd subtly shifted even closer to her. His eyes were closed, his expression so tranquil. His head was supported by a pillow and his hands were tucked underneath it in front of his chest, his knees also pulled up close.

Katara sighed and shut her eyes to follow Aang's example. They'll need all the sleep they can get for the rest of the week. Pakku told them the benders and healers should be ready to depart from the Northern Water Tribe in a few days' time, probably by the end of the week. They promised to help out for as long as they stayed there.

Katara was practically asleep when she suddenly heard snivelling coming from somewhere. She opened her eyes and looked at Aang. He was fast asleep. She rolled to her other side and looked at Sokka, who had his back turned towards her. He didn't seem to budge either. She guessed that it must've been the wind intruding inside their hut. When she'd barely found a comfy sleeping position and the faint cry recurred, she decided to wake the airbender up to investigate.

"Aang?.. Hey, Aang. Wake up," Katara whispered as she gently shook him from his shoulder.

"Huh?.. Katara, what's wrong?" Aang wondered, releasing a short yawn as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes.

"Do you hear that?"

"Hear what?"

They waited for some time, but eventually they heard someone sniff. Aang propped himself up on his right elbow to look behind Katara's back. She turned around again to look at Sokka. She caught one last shake go through his body and after that, silence prevailed in their little hut. Katara glanced back at Aang. He nodded to her, urging her to check on her brother.

So the waterbender crawled out of her sleeping bag and over to the warrior. She peeked over his shoulder. Sokka attempted to hide his face in his pillow, but Katara could see the frown on his features, his left cheek decorated with a wet streak, his lips pouting. He sniffed again and covered the side of his face with his glove. He knew his sister was right beside him.

"Sokka.. Hey, are you okay?" Katara asked with that special tone of hers as she shook him from his shoulder to wake him up. That was the last thing Sokka wanted to hear right now. Her caring, motherly voice, her gentle touch, her comforting presence - it all reminded him of mom.

She grabbed his hand, slowly pulling it away from his face. Sokka finally opened his heartbroken blue eyes and stared at his sister, sniffing again. He dried off the old streak of tears with his glove as he sat up, averting his gaze for a second. He sighed.

"No.. not really," he answered honestly, looking at both Katara and Aang. She couldn't think of anything else to do, so she simply wrapped her arms around his neck and held her big brother close. Sokka hugged her back, staring at the ground behind his sister with an empty look. His eyes welled up with fresh tears when he felt someone else embrace him from the other side - Aang.

Sokka squeezed his eyes shut and buried his face against Katara, quietly sobbing into the fur around her hood. Once she heard his silent cries, she felt like her heart was being ripped apart, too. What if instead of him and Yue, it would've been Aang the one she'd lost? She'd probably feel the same way he was now, perhaps even worse. At that thought, Katara broke.

Aang was the only one in the group whose eyes remained dry, but besides hearing Sokka's crying, he noticed Katara doing it, too. The airbender pulled his hand away from her back for a second to wipe her cheek. The waterbender opened her eyes and gazed into his, understanding what he'd done. She blinked at him to say thank you before she shut her eyes again. Katara bumped her head against Aang's. The tips of their noses rubbed together, her tears streamed against his cheek, too. She opened her eyes and stared at him longer, his eyes were closed now. Simply seeing Aang right beside her filled her heart with comfort, love and hope. It reminded her that everything was going to be okay. That's when she had an idea.

"Do you wanna see her?" Katara asked Sokka once she'd regained her composure and his crying had ceased, or at least quietened down. She felt him nod against the back of her neck as he hummed in agreement.

Katara was the first one to break their hug. She wiped off the last of her tears into her sleeve before she stood up and stepped in front of the drapes. She pulled the cloth apart and shoved her head outside, taking a quick look around. Having spotted a small pile of snow, she summoned a tiny part of it back inside their igloo. Next, she waterbended the snow into an icy hook and attached it on the side of the doorway. Finally, she pegged the drapes behind the new detail and stepped aside to admire her work.

Aang placed a supportive hand on Sokka's shoulder. From where the boys sat on the floor, they could see the starry sky. The moon shined its silvery light through the opening left between the drapes. Sokka's frown turned into a smile. He could see Yue.

"Thanks, Katara. You're the best sister ever."

Katara walked over to him and knelt down, wrapping her arms around him to give him another big hug. After that, Sokka was ready to try to fall asleep. Everybody resumed their cosy sleeping positions in silence. Katara beckoned Aang to snuggle against her for warmth since the cold air intruded through their makeshift window. The airbender couldn't have been happier about that request. She glanced at her brother, who was lying in his own sleeping bag on her right side, staring at the moon with a loving smile on his features.

"Good night, Yue!" Sokka said in a hushed tone, then closed his eyes and gradually let slumber take over. His friends had no idea how reassuring it'd be to hear him snore once more. Katara had promised herself that she wouldn't fall asleep until Sokka did. In turn, Aang waited for Katara to fall asleep before he allowed himself to drift off into his own dreams.

#the original Gaang #Kataangtag #Kataang #Yukka #Aang #Katara #Sokka #Yue #Arnook #Pakku #Yugoda #ATLA 1.20 #my fanfiction #mine #shards of Kristal

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