#Zuko: I’M SIXTEEN

[avocadotoastii]

what I like most about this is that it could go either way and still work perfectly. I like to think Zuko owned the pink one and Katara made the blue one for Sokka forever ago, and then when Sokka got too tall and Zuko peaked height-wise at thirteen, Sokka just gave him the blue nightgown as a gift

And then Zuko thought he needed to give Sokka a gift back and so he gave him the pink robe and Sokka never takes it off.

[wileycap]

Two Siblings In A Room Talking About How Much Their Dad Sucks

a.k.a a non-comics compliant ficlet about Zuko and an in-therapy Azula talking about their dad. This ended up being weird angsty sibling fluff instead of a crackfic about how stupid Ozai is. G. ~1000 words.

“Did you know that Father could have won the war?”

Azula cracked an eye open, lazily. Sunlight streamed in through the narrow windows. It had caught Zuko’s good eye – Zuko was turned so that she couldn’t see his scar and he looked…

“Oh, Zuko, it’s so strange how your mind works,” she said, cutting off her own train of thought. “What prompted this?”

“I was reorganizing the Navy, and I had to read up on our old battle plans,” Zuko replied, turning to face her. “Did you know that we had a plan to invade Ba Sing Se?”

“I did,” Azula said, inspecting her nails. "More than one, in fact."

“A good plan? A plan that would have worked? A plan that wasn't a giant drill?”

Azula mm-hm’ed, trying to speed Zuko along.

“As soon as Omashu fell, we had our supply lines. Farms, water, land, even quarries. Uncle Iroh would have taken Ba Sing Se if cousin Lu Ten hadn’t died, you know that. And if he could have done it with just what we had at the time, Father could have done it any time he wanted.”

Zuko was picking up steam. Azula was mildly entertained.

“I never even thought about how stupid the drill was. A huge offensive… relying on an untested piece of technology that cost more than half our fleet. If I did that, my advisors would skin me alive!”

“If that happens, can I book tickets in advance?” Azula asked, smirking in the face of Zuko’s fuming.

“It’s not a joke!” Zuko snapped, getting up in one violent motion. He paced around the small sitting area. “I spent sixteen years terrified of him, hating him, wanting him to love and accept me, and…”

Zuko let himself drop down on the rug, burying his face in his hands.

Azula observed, uncaring.

They sat in silence for a while.

“It was better when he was this… invincible monster,” Zuko finally said, gesturing vaguely with his arms.

“Yes, I imagine it was. Better than getting half your face burned off by an idiot who doesn’t even know how to read,” Azula shrugged.

Zuko’s incredulous look was an entirely predictable reaction. “I’m pretty sure he knows how to read.”

“I’m not.”

“Azula, come on. Father reads.”

“Are you sure? Can you remember one time he read something, or wrote something, instead of having it read to him or dictating?” Azula paused to let Zuko think. By the blank look on her brother’s face, Azula decided that no answer was forthcoming. “See? Father doesn’t know how to read.”

Zuko gaped. Azula raised an eyebrow, radiating smug superiority.

“Wait,” Zuko said, pointing a finger. “At his coronation, he read the Greeting to Agni!”

“Memorized it,” Azula waved it off. “And he made a mistake. He said Agni’s radiance instead of Agni’s light.”

“Why would he replace an easier word with a harder one?” Zuko asked. There was just the slightest smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Wouldn’t it make more sense the other way around?”

“Easy. Bigger words are better, if you’re an idiot who can’t read and doesn’t want all the nobles and the ministers and the sages to know about it.”

Zuko snorted, toppling over to lay on his back. “I thought he didn’t read my letters because I was a failure, but now it turns out he just couldn’t.”

“No, he had those read out for the court to laugh at,” Azula said, her face serious. “’I remain your dutiful son’ always got big laugh.”

“I bet it did.”

They sat in silence for a while. The beam of sunlight dragged across the floor.

“Do you ever think about him?” Zuko said, staring at the ceiling.

“No,” Azula said, staring at Zuko because she wasn’t a coward.

“Never?”

“No,” Azula said, rolling her eyes. “I already had one mental breakdown. I’m not going to have another one just so you can have company on your little pity-me-my-dad’s-terrible trip.”

Zuko didn’t say anything. He just turned his head so that his scarred eye was looking at Azula.

Azula sighed.

“Look, do you want to know what’s going on in dear old Daddy’s head right now?” At Zuko’s nod-shrug, she continued. “He’s written the both of us off as losses. Oh, if I break out of here and go release him, he’ll take me back – just like he took you back after Ba Sing Se – but until then, I’m crazy and you’re a traitor.

“That leaves him in his cell, and without his bending. By now, he’s probably convinced himself that either his bending will return on its own and he’ll conquer the world again, or his loyalists, his good friends from court, will depose you and probably capture the Avatar to boot. Then they’ll force the Avatar to give him back his Firebending, and Father will reign supreme forever.

“Neither of the two options is going to happen. Even if his Firebending comes back naturally, the Avatar will just defeat him again – hopefully before he makes your eyes match. And his loyalists? He probably doesn’t have any. And if he does, they’re as incompetent as he is. You’re right, Father’s an idiot. He alienated half his court with his insane schemes and promoting crackpots like Qin. The other half he terrified or bribed into submission. I wouldn’t be surprised if even his actual supporters, the few that there are, are happier with you in power.”

Zuko was looking at her with undisguised interest. “So, what’s your point?”

“My point, little Zuzu, is that there’s no need to worry about him anymore,” Azula said, laying down on her bed. “It’s over. He’s not coming back, idiot or not.”

“Huh,” Zuko said. “That’s like a proverb, except it makes sense.”

Azula huffed, caught by surprise. “Dum-dum.”

“… what if I captured Aang and took him to Father? Do you think he’d let me be the prince again?”

“Try it,” Azula shrugged. “But I definitely want tickets.”

[waterfire1848]

🌹🌹🌹

Hello, @blueleopard555

Snippet is from: I Had The Best Day With You Today

This idea came from @ilikepjo24 I’m just writing it

After about two or three minutes of no one saying a word, Kya finally cried out, “Who wants some ice cream? That little place in town reopened.”

“The place with the chocolate cake batter ice cream!?” Katara asked, “Yes! Yes!”

“Finally! I thought they’d be closed forever.”

“I’ll go get my purse. I think I left it upstairs.” Kya said. She took off before anyone could say another word.

“We-um-we don’t have the money.” Zuko told her, “But feel free to go without us or we can go and just stay in the car while you go inside.” Some foster families didn’t trust them alone in the house. One of their old foster dad’s specifically told them that they would probably steal from him and flee so they would never be allowed in the house unsupervised.

“Oh! No! No, you don’t pay. We’ll pay.” Hakoda said, “You kids never have to worry about that.”

“What?” Azula asked, “Are-are you sure?” Most families wanted them to pull their weight for any kind of family activity. No family had yet to tell them they had to pay rent or anything like that but for family outings like parks, ice cream, movies, etc, Azula and Zuko were usually expected to pay for themselves.

“Of course! The state gives us plenty of money for an ice cream trip. You two just come along and we’ll get whatever you want.” Hakoda promised. He tried to set a hand on Azula’s shoulder but the fourteen year old backed away from him and the sixteen year old flinched.

“Okay.” Zuko’s tone was suspicious and Azula still looked off. It was as if the two expected him to suddenly change his mind and laugh in their faces.

“Come on!” Kya chirped, coming back downstairs, “Let’s go get some ice cream!”

[thegaangneedstherapy]

any good wips out there?

hi! yes so many! (I actually just learned what 'wips' meant) I don't know how I've been in fandoms/the fanfiction world for so long and never learned but now I know! (it’s work in progress for anyone else who didn’t know)

ZUKKA WIPS

In Defiance We Find Hope by

Firelord Zuko and Ambassador Sokka, now in a peaceful post-war world, are thrown into an alternate reality where the war’s outcome was drastically different. They find themselves sixteen again, facing a world where Aang never woke, the Water Tribes thrived, and Ozai is a loving father. Together, they must navigate this strange reality and find their way back home and to eachother.

this specific fic is finished the but the series is not! still lots of story to be told!!

Abyssal by Nyxelestia

Sokka tried to rescue Sage Shyu from the collapse of Roku's temple. Instead he, Shyu, and Zuko were all captured by Commander Zhao.

And Zhao never wastes an opportunity.

This one has a lot of sensitive content so read the tags and warnings!!

This is my favorite WIP at the moment. I’m eagerly waiting for the next update (Fans of leaving it all behind and war games will love this)

have courage and be kind by mydearestangelica

by day, zuko is the mistreated and indentured son of an exiled former ruler, and sokka is the charming prince of the kingdom. by night, they are the blue spirit and captain boomerang, stars of the kingdom’s underground fight club. cinderella shenanigans ensue.

Real Enough to Get Me Through by marriedzukka

After Iroh passes, Zuko reaches his breaking point. As he navigates the path through grief, he meets a kindred soul and begins to heal in more ways than one.

Hasn’t updated in a little bit but OMFG SO GOOD!! possibly one of the best zukka fics IMP

At the Top of the World by Lady_of_the_Flowers

Zuko is sent in disgrace to Alaska's Northern coast to ensure nothing stands in the way of Sozin Oil Company’s new offshore drilling project. He is willing to do whatever it takes to make his father see he’s worthy, even if it means fighting against the one person he's met who actually seems to give a damn about him.

also hasn’t updated in a while but I have hope!

winner takes all by dragonbagel

sokka takes on republic city, ft. pro-bending, equalists, freedom fighters and one mysterious, scarred tea server

turn around, bright eyes by Cryellow

There was only one eclipse. Somehow, Zuko had lived three others in the last few days. The question was, Why? What did the spirits want him to do? (Timeloop au)

hopefully I did this right :)

Enjoy!!

[linnoya-writes]

Zutara Childhood-Friends-to-Lovers Alter-Egos Forbidden-Romance AU (part I)

Their first kiss comes at the absolute worst time, with Katara and Zuko exchanging fruit under his late mother’s favorite tree in the palace gardens.  It comes with a disagreement between Fire Lord Iroh and Chieftain Hakoda of the WaterTribes.

A Southern tribesman and two of the palace guards are the ones who walk in on the teenagers’ awkward little kiss. 

The Southern tribesman coughs for attention; Zuko flinches and Katara jerks her head away.  Her cheeks are so flushed, Katara barely recognizes her father’s guard. Whatever he’s there for, it’s not good. 

“Lady Katara, I’ve been ordered to escort you back to the ship. We leave port tonight.”

Immediately, her world caves in. “W—What?”

“What’s going on?” Zuko can’t help but interject in that voice that is both regal and concerned.  As they stand up, Katara feels her frame staying close to his.

“I’m afraid I cannot disclose anything else, your highness,” the kinsman bows his head to Zuko respectfully, and the palace guards approach almost instinctively. “My orders are only to take our princess home.” 

The way he’s suddenly referring to her so possessively, and distantly, it makes her brows furrow.

“Kievel—“ it takes her a century to remember this man’s name, “There has to be some mistake.  Sokka and I still have a few more weeks here!”

“Let me talk to my uncle," Zuko rasps to her, "they should still be at the council meeting.” 

“Your highness, council has already adjourned," Kievel chimes in. "His lordship expects you and her highness Azula to meet him at the royal hall before any more news goes public.” 

Katara can see Zuko’s eyes widening into a confused, unexpected gold. This is bad, she thought, and yet her fingers instinctively searching for Zuko’s knuckles.

Staring at the guards, Katara and Zuko find their fingers entwining in the obscure folds of their robes. She can feel Zuko’s hand still holding some kind of fruit, the little shivers in his finger debating whether to let it drop to the ground, if it meant he could hold her hand just for that little moment. 

“Princess…” Kievel brought them back to the present. “…it’s time to go.”

They glance at each other, looking like they’d lived a glacial sixteen and fourteen years for a moment like this to happen… and yet here it was… so easily being taken away.  It wasn’t fair. 

The glistening of his eyes said exactly that, but the flaming gold said something else: I don't regret it. 

And Katara met him with her glimmering blue eyes.

Me neither.

As she stepped forward and their secret hands parted, Zuko instinctively let her grab hold of the fruit he’d kept curled in his hand. The last thing Katara saw was his serious face, sandwiched between his two guards.  He seemed so stern, regal and untouchable, but his eyes spoke of hope. 

Katara could only imagine that she would see him again, that whatever this premature separation was about would someday eventually fade.  She waited until making it to the dock to finally pull out the fruit from her robes.  It was a plum-- ripe and ready for eating-- the size of tiny goose-otter egg.

She smiled, keeping it in her robe pockets as a parting gift to take for her long journey back home… feeling like a part of her had still remained under the shade of that tree with her best friend.  It wasn’t until she saw Sokka at the dock that she learned the gravity of this separation; their countries were in a feud regarding the discovery of a remote island off the Fire Nation's archipelago, the Water Tribe proclaiming it an ancient burial site of their ancestors and arguing how this island should be deemed theirs. This feud has halted their their trade agreement, and they are willing to readdress it after a ten-year separation.

“TEN YEARS!?”

She as princess of the WaterTribe was forbidden to touch ground in the Fire Nation for ten years, and the idea of not seeing Zuko for that length of time…

“No— that can’t happen.” 

“Katara, it’s done.  It’s the law.” 

“Well, the law stinks!” 

Before she can even think of making her way back to the palace gate, the Watertribe guards hold her back with a Water-bending wall.  And in the distance, she could see a faint figure trying to wrestle his way past his own guards at the beacon point.

The way he'd been so athletic and agile as The Blue Spirit back when they were kids, Katara didn't have to guess who it was. 

His voice bellowed. “I said,' Let me through!'  You can’t do this— I- I HAVE to talk to her!” 

“Zuko!?”

She didn’t care if she referred to him so informally, or that her voice echoed through the entire capital, or that Sokka was grabbing her wrist and edging her back towards their ship. 

She could see his face softening as he saw her.

“Katara— I— I’m so sorry.” 

“No— it’s not your fault. This isn’t over, okay? I love you.” 

There was an abysmal wave gasps at the dock, and Katara didn’t care- she was only speaking to one person, anyway. Zuko was also taken aback, amazed as much as the others surrounding them by the sheer boldness his best friend had chosen to demonstrate.

His heart pounded in his chest, feeling that same boldness take root inside of him more and more.

Zuko breathed, and spoke out, “I love you too.”

And with those words, Katara could almost feel his warmth next to her, hands grazing… lips touching…

No, it wasn’t over. 

“I’ll see you,” he shouted, his hands gripping the rails of the beacon. 

“See you," came her reply. 

It’s what they’d always said to each other as young playmates in the palace, always on the day that Katara would have to to leave Zuko's side at the end of summer… but it felt different this time, because the tides had turned so monumentally. 

They could feel themselves becoming something else. 

When she finally boarded the ship, Katara could hear Sokka muttering that she was an idiot to say something like that out loud. 

Katara wasn’t listening. Instead, she was looking down at her hand, at her little plum. And as the ship set sail, she started to take little bites of the fruit... savoring the sweetness of it… thinking about the seed, and wondering if it was possible to raise a plum tree in the arctic tundras of the south. 

[assorted-fics]

Fics of the Month

Avatar: The Last Airbender

from the ashes by dxncingquxxr

the five times zuko dies and the one time he lives

a subtle electric fire (asef-verse) by agni_kai

First Fic: a subtle electric fire

"Suki," he says, muffled. "Suki, tell me to stop crushing on the hot single dad at work."

Suki doesn't look up from painting her nails. "Go out and bag yourself a DILF, babe."

---

Zuko's insistence that it's him and his kid against the world is being seriously tested by Izumi's new teacher.

Sokka's determination to ignore hot parents is waning more and more as he gets to know the single dad of the new kid.

Everyone else is just waiting for them both to get their acts together.

Fullmental Alchemist

Make Your Pointe by ShanaStoryteller

Ed doesn't know how he got himself into this situation.

And by situation, he means dancing the lead role in a ballet he barely knows.

Dreaming in Red and Gold by Batsutousai

When Drachma agrees to meet for peace talks at Briggs Fortress, General Roy Mustang is the one sent to represent Amestris. It just so happens that the Drachmans have their own Amestrisan, who is far too skilled at turning the most tedious of discussions into an exciting time.

Happiness and Love Revolve Revolve Around You by Batsutousai

Mei visits Xerxes as a princess of Xing, and Al finds himself falling in love with her.

a terrifying clamour of trumpets by ShanaStoryteller

Edward grabs Marcoh’s arm and says, “That stone – what can it heal, exactly?”

The old man’s eyebrows rise to his forehead, and he looks like he already knows the answer when he goes, “Why do you ask, Edward?”

There's no metallic footsteps so there’s no way Al’s close enough to hear them. “I’m sick,” he admits after another moment of deliberation.

Merlin

Me @ Merlin Writers: What if You Didn’t Murder My Favourite Characters by CaffeinatedFlumadiddle

First Fic: Returning the Favour

Really?" Arthur asked, brushing the dirt off of him as he glowered at the man. "Again? I had it under control - and we aren't allies!" He added heatedly. Balinor shrugged, looking nonplussed by Arthur's anger as he stroked the dragon's wing.

"I know." Balinor said simply. "But I promised my son I wouldn't let you die."

"Your...You have a son?" Arthur demanded. Again, Balinor shrugged. "Why does your son...? Nevermind. Don't save me again!" He snapped, pointing a finger at the man. He turned to stalk back to the horse only for a column of fire to blow past him. The prince jumped. He spun around to tell the man off again but immediately noticed one of the remaining bandits who had been slowly creeping towards him burnt to a crisp. He looked back at Balinor.

"Sorry."

Or

Balinor lives. Arthur will do pretty much anything to get the man to stop saving his life.

Dragged Down and Hellbound by CaffinatedFlumadiddle

"I don't think you understand," Merlin said as he started walking backwards, brows wrinkled in confusion. "I can rip your throat out with my teeth and drink your blood. Does that not bother you?" He asked. Arthur finally glanced up from the papers in his hand to look at him, pausing his steps altogether. Merlin waited.

"...Merlin, you fell over trying to put boots on." He said. Merlin grimaced, looking down at his feet.

"I hadn't realized you were supposed to wear them all the time." He muttered, uncertain what this had to do with the fact he could murder everyone within a ten mile radius. Arthur sighed. "And those are bold words from someone who can't dress himself!" He added indignantly. Another sigh. Humans did that a lot as it turned out.

"Merlin, that's your job."

"And I've taught you several times. It isn't that hard."

"No, I - " Arthur started and closed his eyes. "I don't have time for this."

Or

After living with demons for sixteen years, Merlin decides to explore his human side by venturing to Camelot. Also, he has a destiny to unite his species and bring magic back into Camelot, but he's not too worried about that.

Harry Potter

A Love Potion by Liepe

The Slytherin House, more specifically Pansy and Blaise, have been unamused by Draco’s behaviour lately. It has been decided that the perfect punishment would be to give Draco a love potion that would make him act like a love sick puppy around Potter. Nothing happens and the Slytherins can’t figure out why.

Avengers

It’s the Little Things that Matter by TunaFishChris

Wanda has a lot of time to reflect and come to some decisions about herself during the Rogues' exile. When they're pardoned, she decides that she's going to make things right: with herself, with the team, and with the world.

In other words, we have enough evil!Wanda and bitch!Wanda fics. So here's a complicated-snarky-hero-awesome Wanda fic.

Series: History and Science Fiction by MemoryDragon

Steve learns history through the use of television, and he starts to see that neither are really that bad. And through it all, he might just have found a family.

in an empty moral space by blueh

“Bring Spider-Man to us, Mr. Stark,” High-heels says and rattles off an address. “If that bug isn’t here in the next twenty four hours, then your intern gets it. We are not going to ask a second time.”

There’s a pause.

Then, “You want Spider-Man?”

“In exchange for your intern,” High-heels affirms.

“Spider-Man,” Mr. Stark repeats. He sounds more amused than worried for Peter’s apparent safety.

also known as: Peter Parker is held hostage…in order to get to Spider-Man. Throw in some Accords reconciliation and, well, Peter’s life just got a whole lot weirder.

Birthday For Two by Inkinmyheartandonthepage

“I’m going to meet MJ and Ned,” Peter said casually even as his palms grew balmy, and his heart rate kicked in his chest.

“Now?” Tony’s brows pulled tighter together.

Peter nodded as he shifted his weight from foot to foot. “I’ll be back later.”

“It’s the middle of your sisters’ birthday party,” Tony said slowly.

“Yeah, well,” Peter shrugged and took in a shaky breath. “Ned and MJ wanted to celebrate my birthday too.”

OR

Tony forgets that it's Peter's birthday too.

[ao3feed-zukka]

The Stars Align

Read now on Ao3 at https://ift.tt/8GYHtxK by even_atlas Three years ago, Agni saved Zuko’s life by gifting him a Spirit Blessing. Sixteen years ago, Tui tied their life to Sokka’s. Now on the run, with the crux of it all being the Avatar, the lives of both Spirit-Touched boys seem to keep aligning.   (Or; Sun Spirit Zuko and Moon Spirit Sokka go on their canon typical adventures but now with more PTSD and magical power ups) Words: 7069, Chapters: 1/?, Language: English Fandoms: Avatar: The Last Airbender Rating: Mature Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence Categories: F/F, F/M, M/M Characters: Sokka (Avatar), Zuko (Avatar), Katara (Avatar), Aang (Avatar), Toph Beifong, Suki (Avatar), Yue (Avatar), Appa (Avatar), Momo (Avatar), Assorted Avatar Cast, pretty much everyone shows up - Character Relationships: Sokka/Zuko (Avatar), Sokka/Suki (Avatar), Sokka/Yue (Avatar), Aang/Katara (Avatar), Jet/Katara (Avatar) Additional Tags: Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, kinda because I’m sticking to the plot of the show with just a few minor changes, Moon Spirit Sokka (Avatar), Sun Spirit Zuko (Avatar), Endgame Zukka, endgame kataang, Slow Burn, Canon-Typical Violence, PTSD, Sokka Has PTSD, Zuko Has PTSD (Avatar), everyone has PTSD, let’s be honest here, Other Additional Tags to Be Added Read it on Ao3 at https://ift.tt/8GYHtxK

[apocryphiend]

writing patterns meme

rules: List the first line of your last 10 (posted) fics and see if there’s a pattern!

saw @lunarriviera’s post and was curious! considering i’ve only posted sixteen works in ten years… this will be quite the spread lol

10. it’s been january for months in both directions (jinshi/maomao)

Jinshi’s not sure how long they sit there, huddled beneath the cold open of the sky. But it isn’t long enough.

9. what’s another shadow anyway? (godou yoshito/kudou kiyoka)

Kiyoka tells him that Miyo-san has invited him to dine with them, and Yoshito is delighted, but more than a little confused.

8. in another life, we were arsonists (jetko)

February’s reputation says shes the coldest month of the year.

7. new fruit humming (maiko, zukka)

Zuko has that look in his eye, and Mai knows.

6. sound of water (itafushi)

As much as he would like to argue otherwise, there are very few scenarios in which Megumi would answer Yuuji with an unyielding no.

5. like american money (stony)

The American tips him a thousand dollars and Steve thinks he might fall over.

4. if i’m out of sight then take another look around (zukka)

The grass is cool against Zuko’s skin beneath the trees of the subdivision’s greenspace.

3. the manifold geography of hunger (zukka)

When Sokka wakes, his vision is blurred, and his head is pounding.

2. phantom (todoroki genfic)

Pride.

1. tell me what you know about night terrors (destiel)

Dean dreams.

@lunarriviera talked about wanting to depart from american academic realism… idk if i am ready to depart, because it’s a style that i really enjoy, but i do need to switch it up every now and then.

i’m a big fan of opening in media res, and it shows. so much of my favorite fiction, fannish and otherwise, has that air of familiarity that settles around you from the first word onward, and i really try to emulate that in my writing. i wouldn’t say that it’s achieved yet, but we’re building toward it.

if y’all are interested, i want to tag @sulkybender, @outpastthemoat, and anyone who wants to share!

[zukosdualdao]

“the only reason you should be interrupting me is if you have news about the avatar” something So Fascinating (and a little bit hilarious, admittedly) about zuko taking meditation so seriously when he is also. Like That. seems to indicate that on some level, he knows he has a lot of emotional issues, and while he’s not always very graceful about it, he does take iroh’s advice (because i cannot imagine anyone else from the fire nation taught him meditation as part of his training tbh) to heart. this duality is also immediately highlighted by “uncle, you taught me keeping a level head is the sign of a great leader. now, whatever you have to say, i’m sure i can take it” being followed by an IMMEDIATE emotional outburst upon iroh telling him they have no idea where the avatar is. he’s so real for this. and also so sixteen.

[goldenavenger02]

from sprinkler splashes to fireplace ashes

"so you should go get some rest because you look exhausted."

"I'm fine, Suki," Zuko shrugged her off, which she had expected from the stubborn fire bender, "but I need to finish my work for the day before I rest."

"Whatever you say, boss,". Takes place a month after the finale.

'Political affairs are no place for a child.'

Those words his uncle had spoken while struck deeply with grief rang throughout Zuko's mind as he found himself at the head of the table in a far too big robe that hadn't been tailored to his size and a small crown that held a heavy weight attached nestled in his hair tie.

He had never been the obvious leader despite the name of the Firelord being his birthright; that had always been Azula with her ability to act just as she was supposed to in any situation where she was being looked upon in any sort of regard. She had always been ready and prepared to handle being on the throne.

Even though he was older than her, he didn't feel wiser or stronger than his sister. Instead, he felt like a small child rummaging through their parent's closet and trying on their clothes. He felt like a mockery, a fake ruler like this was not his place.

His little sister, despite everything that had been planted in her mind by his father, deserved to win the Agni Kai title.

But by the look that King Kuei and Chief Arnook were giving him now, waiting for him to speak, he knew that they regarded him as the Firelord, even if he didn't feel that way himself.

So he swallowed down his nerves, forced his hands into the pockets of the robe to hide their shaking, and managed to force his voice to leave his lips.

"Thank you both for meeting me here so quickly. I know that the two of you are busy with the rebuilding efforts in both the Earth Kingdom and the North Pole, as am I with the Fire Nation, so your presence and urgency are both greatly appreciated."

"Of course, Fire Lord," Zuko swallowed down the weight that the title held over his head as King Kuei spoke, "I'm sure that we are discussing the issue of bringing all of these countries together. However, I hope your plan includes removing the fire nation from our land."

Zuko agreed, "I've been in contact with the Avatar despite his infrequency in the Fire Nation, and we're working on putting together a plan on how to do it. The other regions are welcome and encouraged to participate as well, which is why I have called you both here."

"Well, why don't we get started then?" Chief Arnook's suggestion had been one that Zuko was grateful for as he got up to lay out the map of what he and Aang had in mind for the regions across the table.

…

Suki couldn't stop herself from slouching against the wall as the meeting behind the doors continued quietly. If it had gotten heated, then she would at least be allowed to enter to ensure Zuko's safety, but instead, she was stuck with waiting outside until it concluded.

When Sokka had pitched the idea to her of being the head of security for the fire lord during the transitional period, she would be lying if she said that she hadn't jumped at the chance. Zuko's coronation had been met with all different types of controversies from loyalists to his father as well as citizens who were concerned about letting a newly sixteen-year-old run a nation, which led to her desire of being on the frontlines to make sure that the power shift went smoothly.

But she would also be lying if she said that the private meetings that she was forced to stand outside of weren't extremely boring.

When she heard footsteps approach, however, she did stand up straight just in time for both King Kuei and Chief Arnook to exit and had no idea she hadn't been at attention for the entire four-hour-long meeting.

"The Earth Kingdom will be in touch." King Kuei confirmed with a nod toward the open door that Suki assumed was in Zuko's direction before the two men walked off down the exit.

That gave her the chance to take two steps from her post to face the fire lord, who at best was clearly overwhelmed and exhausted and at worst, still had residual pain radiating through his body as a result of the Agni Kai he had been in just a few weeks earlier.

"Okay," Suki sighed as she stepped forward so she could shut the doors behind her, waiting until Zuko looked into her eyes, "What else do you have to do today?"

"I still have to meet with Chief Hakoda-"

"Who is Sokka and Katara's father and will understand the rescheduling." Suki cut him off, watching as his face turned up in annoyance despite continuing.

"And I have to relay the information from Chief Arnook and King Kuei to Aang when he gets here."

"Which could be in twenty minutes or two days because he's in and out of every nation right now," Suki supplied with crossed arms, waiting until she received a nod from Zuko before continuing, "so you should go get some rest because you look exhausted."

"I'm fine, Suki," Zuko shrugged her off, which she had expected from the stubborn fire bender, "but I need to finish my work for the day before I rest."

"Whatever you say, boss," she stood up straighter so she could escort him to where they would be meeting up with Hakoda at the entrance, "but I will be telling Katara about the residual pain you're experiencing when she returns from the South Pole."

She could hear his scowl behind her as they walked, but given that it didn't have the same bite that she had grown used to, she knew that she was in the right about his current deteriorating condition.

Suki just wished that she could have been wrong about it.

…

The first of many bombs went off in the dead of night.

Zuko knew fully well that it had to be from his people who were angry about his ascension to the throne and who were shocked that someone who had been exiled from his kingdom just three years earlier was now in charge of all of them.

He couldn't blame them for their feelings either, especially when he couldn't even take his title seriously and knew that he may very well be unworthy of the throne.

Despite his internal feelings, however, he knew that when Suki woke him from his slumber that night that he still had to follow the procedure for the emergency that had been drilled into him as a small child of getting into the deepest level of the palace and waiting for instructions from the head of security.

"Stay here," Suki insisted as she passed the ring of keys to Zuko, pressing them tightly into his palm, "I'll give you a signal when this passes. Three knocks."

And with a nod of Zuko's head, she was going back up the stairs and locked the door behind her, leaving him in the dimly lit room with his uncle and the steadily pulsing pain in his abdomen that radiated throughout him.

"You're worried." Iroh finally spoke after a few minutes and it clicked that the entire time they had been in silence, Zuko had been aimlessly pacing.

"About the innocent civilians. The ones who aren't loyal to my father who just wanted to get some rest for the night." Zuko insisted while still refusing to sit down as his lightning scar continued to pulsate shocks of pain throughout his body.

'Azula wouldn't sit quietly. She would be out there, fighting against the opposing side.'

Zuko knew that his sister was extremely misguided, a pawn in Ozai's game since she had been a toddler and even though she mainly used intimidation and fear to her advantage, she did have good leadership skills in a crisis and was able to think clearly despite the chaos.

Even if many would call her evil, he knew that she wasn't entirely gone and that she genuinely wanted good for the fire nation.

"But I will say," Zuko added after a few moments, finally making eye contact with his uncle again, "I wish I was allowed to help ward off these extremists."

Iroh nodded as he rested his head against the wall before responding, "But you know why you can't."

"Because I'd be proving their point by being on the frontlines attacking them. It also makes me a much easier target despite having the Kyoshi warriors on all sides."

But to Zuko's shock, Iroh shook his head in response before giving him the answer.

"Most nations agree that their leader joining the fight is a good thing, it means they care about their people. But you, my nephew, are still injured from the Agni Kai. Going out there injured would guarantee your defeat and maybe even your demise."

Zuko nodded and finally took that as a cue to sit down to try and dissipate the pain that had been radiating through him all day, resting the back of his head against the cold stone wall and letting it sink into his body.

"Is it getting worse?" His uncle wasn't able to mask the concern in his voice, but Zuko knew that he wouldn't hide it either regardless of the circumstances.

"No, I don't think so," Zuko responded, watching Iroh's shoulders loosen with the lack of tension that had only been brought on by his worry, "the problem is that it's not getting better either. But Suki is already planning on speaking to Katara when she returns, so there's no need to worry about me."

Iroh nodded as he stood up to walk over and sit next to his nephew, putting his hand on his shoulder before speaking, "You finally found people to call your family."

Zuko knew he should have been comforted by that statement, that Iroh could see that he was finally freeing himself from the chains that constrained him to Ozai's grip and authority, but he wasn't for one sole reason.

'He feels like Azula is just as awful as my father.'

However, he was unable to ask his uncle about his sister because his exhaustion and pain made his strength from the adrenaline start to dissipate, resulting in being unable to keep his eyes open long enough to see the end of the attack on his people.

…

Zuko didn't know how much time had passed when he awoke again; all he knew was that he was in his bed now and no longer hiding underground which only meant one thing.

'The attack is over and we won.'

Despite the victory that he had drawn his conclusion for, however, he couldn't stop the pit in his stomach from growing due to the anguish that came from not knowing who had emerged without any major injuries and who hadn't.

'Was the prison breached allowing for my father's escape? Was the mental hospital breached? Is Azula injured, or worse?'

But before he could ponder on his worries much longer, his thoughts were interrupted by the head of the Kyoshi Warriors making her way into the room; despite the scratches that marked his face, the victory in her eyes shone brightly even though her face was otherwise emotionless as she approached.

"How are you feeling?" She questioned while gently pressing her still armored hand to his face, "You started running a fever in the bunker last night."

"Wait, what?"

"Yeah. But Iroh explained that you can tend to make yourself sick with stress and there aren't any other signs of infection, so there isn't much reason to be worried," Zuko let out a sigh of relief at that statement, "but, he said he'll handle any immediate aftermath of the bombing until Katara gets here in a few hours and can give us the okay for you to resume your royal activities."

"But-"

"Fire Sage order," Suki cut him off which immediately shut him up because he had fought with them many times before, he refused to fight against their judgment now, "I'm not gonna fight with them."

"Can you just answer one question for me?" Zuko pleaded, waiting until she nodded before he asked, "Did the bombs breach the prison or the mental hospital?"

He watched as Suki stiffened, and he braced himself for the news he didn't want to hear but what she said was both comforting and worrying for him only based on the way that she reacted.

"Azula and Ozai are both alive and uninjured," and with that, she started to leave, only to turn back to him with what felt like a fake tender smile, "I'll be watching for Katara if you need me."

And with that, he was left alone in his empty room yet again, watching as the light breeze from the cracked windows brushed past his curtains and against his warm skin; under any other circumstance, this would be soothing to his mind but in this particular moment, all he could feel was dread and confusion.

'After everything, I know that I shouldn't be concerned with Azula's safety…but why is Suki angry that I am?'

…

Suki knew that biting her fingernails out of worry was not only a bad habit but also unprofessional. She was currently representing the injured fire lord, after all. She knew that she could stand at attention until Katara arrived.

But, she hadn't slept since the night before and still was unable to appoint another member of either the royal guard or the Kyoshi warriors due to them either aiding in the clean-up or protecting Iroh as he tried to get to the bottom of who had hidden the bombs.

Which meant that she was alone in the massive palace with Zuko, her swirling thoughts and a desperate hope that Katara would arrive soon.

And if she hoped that Sokka was with his sister so she could demand to know why he had thought she was equipped to handle the stubborn, newly crowned Firelord, that'd be nice as well.

It wasn't like she didn't want to help Zuko with the transition into power when he had been considered more useless than dirt by the entire world less than two years ago. She would be lying if she said she wasn't looking forward to the challenge.

However, she couldn't understand his thought process; his city had been attacked by people who would relish seeing him dead for his father to be reinstated, nearly killing so many innocent citizens and his royal guard.

But his first question was if his father and sister, who had been the main cause of torment and abuse throughout his entire life, were not only alive but uninjured. Suki didn't know why the question had made her so snappy and standoffish toward him, but it did.

Before she could continue to let her thoughts be so angry that she chewed off all of her fingernails, however, she heard the door open which forced her to stand at attention for the incoming force heading toward her and more importantly, the one she swore to protect.

Her stiff stance only relaxed when the person came into view and she could see that it was Katara, whose face was drawn up in concern and seriousness. Suki would have been shocked if her face wasn't carrying the same expression but she still accepted the warm hug that came from her friend's embrace.

"Oh, your face," Katara's voice was soft as her thumb gently traced over one of the still sore gashes that covered her face from the night before, "did anyone else get hurt in the attacks?"

"Not that I'm aware of," Suki expressed, giving the water bender a chance to remove her hand from her injured cheek, "I've got it the worst as far as I know. But I can handle it."

"You're almost as bad as Zuko," Katara clicked her tongue while bringing her hand back to her side, but the comment made her remember what she was going to discuss with her boyfriend if he had been at his little sister's side.

But he was nowhere to be seen, most likely helping Toph in the Earth Kingdom with some idea she had rambled about involving a metal bending academy.

"Are you sure you're okay, Suki?"

And it was the genuine concern in Katara's voice that finally brought her internal struggle to the surface along with a steady stream of tears that broke free from her gray eyes onto the red rug that sat beneath their shoes.

The hug that she was given was less of a greeting and much more of a desperate attempt to comfort based on how tight she was being held onto, but all she could focus on at the moment was her concern spilling out of her mouth as fast as the tears fell from her eyes.

"I want to help Zuko and the fire nation, that's the whole reason I let Sokka talk me into this in the first place, but I just can't understand how after everything that happened, the first thing he asked me this morning was if the prison or the hospital had been breached. If his father and sister were uninjured, I don't know why he continues to let himself get hurt by them. How they still control his life behind bars."

It took Katara a few minutes to respond to Suki's cries; in fact, the entire hall was dead silent except for the sound of Suki's sobs.

When her anger, concern, and sadness finally started to move away from her soul, however, that was when the water bender who was wise beyond her years, finally spoke up.

"Because no matter how we accept him as one of our own, they are still his family by blood. Given the positive relationship he has with his uncle, I think that he is desperately hoping that Ozai and Azula, especially Azula, may still have some good in them behind the layers of evil."

"But he doesn't need his father who physically scarred him," Suki protested, still fighting her tears, "and he doesn't need his evil pawn of a sister either."

"You're right, he doesn't need them," Katara agreed with her statement, "however, that doesn't mean he can just leave them behind, no matter how much they hate each other. It's going to take him a long time to accept that even if he wants them in his life, they don't want him. That's where we'll come in."

"So, do we just let him be delusional about Azula switching sides then?" Suki was aware of how bitter her voice was, but after her first-hand experience with the fire princess in the Boiling Rock, she couldn't care less.

"We don't have a choice with how stubborn he is. I was shocked that he joined our side in the first place."

And with that, Suki finally accepted defeat; even if half of what Katara was saying was true, and she believed every word that she said, then there would be no changing Zuko's mind.

'He'll just have to learn the hard truth himself.'

Suki didn't realize that her gaze had fallen onto the red rug that covered gold tile as her tears finally slowed to a stop until she felt a soft hand graze her shoulder, which forced her to look back up at Katara's face, feeling her fingers gently push back her hair to make sure she looked presentable before she gestured to the door with a tilt of her head.

"Let's go see what trouble Zuko has landed himself in this time."

She wasn't sure if she could hold back her feelings unless she stayed perfectly still and quiet, but it was her duty to ensure his safety and even though it was just Katara, she had made a promise to Sokka, to Zuko and most importantly, to herself.

'And I will not break that promise, especially not out of frustration.'

So with the poise and grace of a true Kyoshi warrior that she always tried her hardest to exhibit, Suki followed Katara inside Zuko's quarters and straight to the fire lord himself, who was slightly dozing off when they approached.

"Zuko," Katara's voice was just barely above a whisper as she gently touched his left shoulder, effectively getting him to open his eyes and turn to look at her which allowed her to raise her voice to its normal volume, "how much trouble are you causing already?"

"Depends on who's asking," Zuko's tired and pained face was turned up in a small smirk which elicited a small laugh from Katara, but just as quick as the smile appeared, it faded back into his forever cold face, "it's just a stress fever. This time last year, I was considered a traitor, so I'm not exactly used to this level of power."

"Yeah, I remember," Katara affirmed while slowly pushing back the red and gold comforter that adorned the bed of the fire lord, "that doesn't mean we shouldn't be sure."

Suki watched as Zuko resigned any efforts to conceal the pain and let his hands fall to his tunic, undoing the loose tie around his lower waist with a grimace before letting it fall off his shoulders and laying back down onto the pillows.

The sight of the small but centered star-shaped mark in the middle of his abdomen that made streaks up to his right shoulder and knowing that the sister he so badly wanted to be on his side had caused it nearly made Suki speak her mind right then and there.

'Azula has hurt him in the same way Ozai has. Treated him like dirt on the bottom of her shoe and then physically scarred him with her bending.'

The only glimpse of a silver lining was that Aang had taken Ozai's bending from him, making it impossible for him to hurt anyone, including Zuko, ever again.

'But if Azula manipulates Zuko into believing she's changed…'

She was brought out of both her thoughts and stoic stature by the sound of a soft grunt of pain and looked to see Katara deep in focus as she bent water over and around the large wound. If she had been as close to Zuko as the others, she may have offered her hand to hold as a source to take the pain out.

But she was his security guard first, and he was being taken care of and even healed, so she stayed at the end of his bedside and forced herself to look away from both the lightning wound and the scar that covered most of the left side of his face, choosing the intricately carved bed frame to focus on.

"It's not getting infected, thankfully," Katara finally spoke, which was met by a sigh of relief from Zuko, "but the inflammation is high and you could use a few more healing sessions. Between that and the stress fever, I think you know what my recommendation is going to be for the next few days."

"Let my uncle act as fire lord and try to rest?"

"Get some rest, but yes," Katara nodded as she bent the water back into the small bowl at his bedside, allowing him to retie the sash that kept his tunic secure to his body, but Suki focused on the fact that Katara's blue eyes were now looking into her's, "I'll be here until Aang arrives, but you're in charge of making sure he follows my directions."

"I don't need to be babysat, Katara." Zuko protested as he sat up with a wince, leading Katara to roll her eyes at him before looking back at Suki.

"You can see that he proved my point," she huffed before turning back to the fire lord, "lay back down and think of it as her protecting the best interest of the fire nation or whatever will get you to sleep that isn't your body giving up from pure exhaustion."

Suki could have sworn that she watched the fire lord himself stick his tongue out at his healer before laying back down, but it was one of those "blink and you'll miss it" moments and frankly, she had bigger things to worry about.

"I'm going to find someone who can get some food for him, but I'll be back," Katara explained before walking out of the two large doors, leaving her alone with her thoughts and the injured fire bender.

"What?" Zuko asked as soon as the doors fully shut, forcing Suki to whip her head toward him and question him right back.

"What are you talking about?"

"What is going on with you? Yesterday morning, you were your usual self and now you won't even speak to me," He explained which made her curse her readability internally, "did I do something wrong? Is it something I can fix?"

"You can't fix everything, Zuko." Suki couldn't keep her angered but teary breath to herself, "And it's not your fault either."

"What are you talking about, Suki?"

And with that genuine question with zero signs of anything but earnest concern in it, she finally cracked and told him exactly what had been bothering her all day, "I'm talking about Azula."

"What does Azula have to do with any of this?" Zuko's voice remained steady as he spoke, but instead of concern for her well-being, he now sounded defensive about the enemy.

"Your city, your people were attacked. Thousands of people could have been killed last night and the first thing that comes out of your mouth is about the prison and the hospital."

"Do you know how detrimental it would be to the throne and the world if my sister or even my father escaped? You and I, along with Katara, Sokka, and Toph would be on a hit list with Aang at the very top," Zuko's anger with her was obvious now and the way he spoke made it sound like she had overreacted with her assumption about his sister, "I was making sure that those extremists hadn't succeeded with their plan to free my family."

"But that's the problem, Zuko!" Suki snapped, sending the fire lord into a stunned silence at her tone, "You're still calling them your family! You don't owe them anything, not after what they've done to you! Not after you were banished, scarred, and nearly killed by both of them!"

Suki finally took a breath to try and get herself to calm down, and when she looked back up at Zuko, who was tracing two fingers over the scar that adorned the left side of his face before letting his hand drop, she nearly let the dam blocking the tears in her eyes burst.

"There is still part of me that hopes Azula will see the light and the errors of her ways, but she's my little sister. Letting go of what my father did to me is going to come easier for me because he hasn't loved me in a very long time, but Azula…she was cruel, yes, but until the Agni Kai," he stopped to let his hand touch the lightning wound, wincing as soon as contact was made, "I never guessed that she would act in the same way our father did towards me."

"I..," Suki trailed off, forcing a deep breath into her lungs before starting again, "I wasn't trying to hurt you more, I just wanted to make sure-"

"That I wouldn't fall for any of her manipulations?" Zuko filled in the blank, which she could only nod in response to, "That's understandable, I would do the same," he agreed before taking a deep breath with a wince, "is there a reason though?"

"What do you mean?" Suki questioned, using her armored sleeve to wipe her tears away.

"That you're so worried about how I think of my sister?"

"Because you have been through so much at both of their hands. You never deserved to be treated like that and now that you have a chance to be free from it, it feels like you aren't taking it," Suki explained quietly, fiddling with her armor as she spoke, "and even though we haven't known each other for very long, it's hard for me not to care about you."

Zuko nodded before moving slightly so that his head was on the pillow rather than his upper back, obviously growing tired; Suki knew that was her cue to go stand outside, but she couldn't stop herself from approaching him and gently squeezing his left shoulder.

"I'm gonna go keep watch, okay?" She asked, expecting just a tired nod from him as he started to let his eyes flutter shut, but she had not been prepared for what he told her in response.

"Thank you for agreeing to look out for me. I greatly appreciate it."

She couldn't stop herself from smiling, knowing that he wasn't harboring any of his anger toward her, and responded with a wink as she spoke.

"Whatever you say, boss."

[teratocore]

I really love the fic trope of the GAang thinking that Zuko is years older than what he actually is (read: 18/19) because they see him as a more serious and intimidating presence than he actually is so when they start to talk to him and get to know him when he joins their team they ask how old he is and he’s like oh I’m sixteen and then they do the math about the banishment and everything and it’s just like. Oh. And it finally registers that he’s just a kid. He’s barely older than Sokka.

[anarchycox]

3, 23, 39!

3. Describe the creative process of writing a chapter/fic

Have a daydream or a what if thought with a friend that doesn't leave me alone, have our cat decide at five am he is starving to death and lick my eyelid until I wake up, feed him, make coffee, and then think might as well word it is better than staring into the void and pondering the existence of life.

23. Best writing advice for other writers

Don't shit on your work. Don't say it is bad thinking if you say it first, it won't hurt if someone says it. But all you are doing is some serious self fulfilling prophecy work there. But start hurting yourself by saying it is bad, it is so cringe, ugh don't even read this - because people will believe you and not read it. Then how will you feel? And worse what if you say those things and someone likes it - now you've made them wonder if something is wrong with them that they liked it. Be kinder to yourself.

39. Share a snippet from a WIP

“My first decree as leader of the fire nation will be, make the columns less moody.”

Sokka froze a bit. “Huh?”

“Huh, what? Should I say gloomy instead of moody?”

“No you said as leader,” Sokka turned his head to look at Zuko on the other bed just a little bit away. “Like I know we all talked about it, but it is really really? Like really really real? You are in charge or will be?”

“Yes?” Zuko said. “Don’t you think I can do it?”

“No, you’re a kid, we’re all kids!” It exploded out of Sokka. “Fuck that shit, Zuko. You deserve a vacation or something, like school? I dunno, you are sixteen and going to be in charge of everything? You can barely make tea! Let Iroh be in charge.”

“You were there for the conversation, you knew this was going to happen. You don’t believe in me?” There was a catch in Zuko’s voice and hurt. He had hurt Zuko.

“I believe in you,” Sokka said softly. “I believe in you lots. I am just saying, why don’t we get to be stupid teenagers? We saved the world, and we should be allowed to be idiots for a while.”

“But you’ll be an idiot forever.”

“Hahaha,” Sokka said but was happy that Zuko had teased. “I’m just saying Zuko, can’t you get like two weeks off before more fate of the world stuff on your shoulders?”

[fanfic-gremlin-ft-trauma]

thank u for the tag aaa!! these games r so fun

1.) Zuko (Atla): sighhhhh yes I know he’s the heartthrob awkward angst dark haired boy I knowww. but!! I don’t like him for the same reasons you like him!! I like him bc he’s a dork and has a huge heart and an amazing character arcs and is!! just sixteen!! also he’s hopelessly in love with his best friend. like. same dude.

2.) Eda (Toh): she’s a milf, she’s insane, she cares about her kids, she has a dope partner who I’d literally give the world to, she was a pirate that one time, she kicks ass, she’s disabled, etc. etc. easy favourite I love her sm <333

3.)Reki (Sk8 the infinity): my baby boy my love my sunshine he’s sooooo amazing and I adore him. he’s just so excited about his passion?? and felt so distraught and devastated when someone was better than him so quickly even though he put so many years and so much effort into it?? he’s so me it’s not even funny. and he’s an ENFP. samesies. I would give him anything. (and renga is probably my favourite ship across the fandoms.)

4.)Legolas (lotr): sighhhhhh I wish I could say it’s for his character or wit or his sense of duty or his heart of gold or the fact that he shoots a bow and arrow but. I am but a simpleton. I see pretty boy with long blond hair and I fall.

5.) Entrapta (spop): she just like me fr!!! I adore her I adore her mind the fact that she loves science and robots the fact that she’s canonically autistic the fact that she has her own character and struggles and isn’t treated like a joke the fact that. Id literally give her the moon and sun my soul my body my mind.

6.)Remus Lupin (hp): look. we don’t speak of jkr here but!! I am specifically talking about marauders fandom Remus. He’s so important to me he’s a sweetheart he’s a bitch I love him. the fact that he’s imperfect the fact that he’s literally comfort the person the fact that his cure to everything is chocolate. I’d die for him actually. I’m so serious about him in fact.

7.)Bucky Barnes (mcu): he’s my guy forever!! went through hell like 5 times, mr. fucked by the narrative, pretty boy long hair (when he had it rip) dark past hard demeanour huge softie inside? what more could I ask for. he perfect. he amazing. i love he.

8.) Vi (arcane): again. I wish I could say it’s for her complicated past her instinct to protect her loyalty her heart. but…. she’s just… so hot. I’m sorry 😭 she has an UNDERCUT and TATTOOS and PIERCINGS and IS VOICED BY HAILEE STEINFELD. what are you asking me to ignore that?? like no??

9.)Harley Quinn (DCU): she’s insane, she’s a badass, she has a hot wife who makes plants, she’s a people pleaser, she’s a psychologist, she was fucked over so many times, she’s a wildcard. she’s my favourite forever.

10.)Tori Spring (Osemanverse): she’s imperfect, she’s depressed, she has anxiety, she’s lost the will to live, she’s cold, she doesn’t know how to have friends, she doesn’t know how to keep friends, she struggles every day, no one can ‘handle her’, she’s a mess. I love her.

tagging: @ash-and-starlight @electro-strike-zukka-time @please-dont-burn-out @ambriel-angstwitch @autistic-katara @kiki-strike @zukkaturtleduck @zukkaart @ozais-lobotomist @sukiluvvs @strrwbrrryjam <- oops if you’ve already done this/been tagged and only join if you feel like it <33

10 characters | 10 fandoms | 10 tags

This is cool, thanks for the tag @transuncletaylor! I think I just talk about my faves right? I know I’m forgetting some but here goes

Sokka (ATLA) : he’s so funny and interesting and his character is So Deep actually! I love a guy with Secret Issues. Must be relatable I guess.

Mako (LOK) : You’re going to start seeing I have a type. Hot, bad boy vibes, seems reckless but has a huge sense of justice actually. Also I LOVE a mysterious and tragic backstory.

Jim Kirk (Star Trek) : I mean the exact same reasons as above pretty much.

Jack Kelly (Newsies) : same hehe. I just love these guys of questionable sexuality who are like a leader of a found family and would do ANYTHING to protect them.

Marius Pontmercy (Les Miserables) : he’s annoying af and doesn’t get the point of anything going on around him but he knows exactly what he stands for. So relatable. His hyperfixation with Napoleon for entirely stupid reasons? Iconic. What a king. Living through a tragedy too? I’m attracted to that angst like flies on shit.

Tommy Shelby (Peaky Blinders) : He’s just badass. The best antihero. He says fuck capitalism and then falls victim to it lol. Also he is a GENIUS and loves to fuck people up to protect his family. Also his trauma is delicious to me ofc.

Geralt of Rivia (The Witcher) : Mysterious hero with pain and a family. So yeah.

Roronoa Zoro (One Piece) : I mean pretty much the same as the majority of this list. Tough guy who would die for his captain omfg

Han Solo (Star Wars) : the og baddie, need I say more

Anya Forger (Spy x Family) : listen it creeps ME out too that a little girl is on the list of me, a grown ass man, but she’s SO funny and her cuteness reminds me of like every student I ever had, I can’t help it

ok idk if y’all figured out but I just tag people by typing letters and clicking the first people who show up lol. Anyway if I dont tag you and you wanna do this, go for it. If I tag you and you don’t want to do this, fine.

@ultfreakme @ozais-lobotomist @firenaition @fanfic-gremlin-ft-trauma @jovialcloudqueenisnotonfire @kiki-strike @lizardlicks @localgaysian @zukkacore @narrativelysignificantturtleduck

[imagines--galore]

||Masterlist||

Please read rules before sending requests.

REQUESTS ARE OPEN.

(Always Uploading new Fics)

Avatar The Last Airbender

Pairing: Zuko x Orora

The Thread of Fate - Masterlist

Pairing: Zuko x Reader

It Was Nothing

Theatrics

I’m Here Beside You

Big Hero 6

Pairing: Tadashi Hamada x Sakura Kamiya

Light 'em Up -  Prologue, Chapter One, Chapter Two, Chapter Three, 

Criminal Minds

Pairing: Spencer Reid x Evelyn Richardson

Mind Over Matter - Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five, Part Six, Part Seven, Part Eight, Part Nine, Part Ten, Part Eleven, Part Twelve, Part Thirteen, Part Fourteen, Part Fifteen, Part Sixteen,

(Companion piece to Mind Over Matter)

A Slight Frustration

Pairing: Spencer Reid x Reader

Hold Me Closer

First Kiss

Don’t Go!

Crossover - Frozen x Rise of the Guardians

Pairing: Jack Frost x Elsa (Jelsa)

One Step Closer - Part One, Part Two (InProgress)

Digimon

Pairing: Taichi Yagami x Hidemi Senshi

The Next Adventure

Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood

Pairing: Alphonse Elric x Willow Hawkeye(OC)

The Ties That Bind - Prologue, Part One,

Pairing: Edward Elric x Reader

Homecoming

The Language of Flowers

Pairing: Roy Mustang x Reader

I Will Always Choose You

Harry Potter

Pairing: Severus Snape x Reader

Reluctant Friendship

Justice League DC Universe

Pairing: Superman x Lucky Penny aka Clark Kent x Penelope Pennyworth

Lucky Break

Pairing: Superman aka Clark Kent x Reader

Part One - Convince Me, Part Two - I’m Convinced

Wedding Drama

Pairing: (Platonic) Superman aka Clark Kent x 12-year-old reader

A New Life

Marvel Cinematic Universe

Pairing: Steve Rogers x Rachel

Kiss It Away

Stolen Kisses, Stolen Moments - Part One, Part Two

Pairing: Steve Rogers x Reader

Confessions

Last Night

Empowering

Distraction

Pairing: Dr. Stephen Strange x Clea

Love, A Kind of Magic - Part One, Part Two

Pairing: Dr. Stephen Strange x Reader

Bleeding Love - Part One & Part Two

Perfection

A Surprising Twist

Sleep Deprived

What the Wife Says Goes

Pairing: Bucky x Reader

Nothing But a Burden

Pairing: Peter Parker x Reader

A Pact Renewed

Because You’re Mine

Not a Waste of Space

Just Hold Me

Pairing: Loki x Reader

Never Leave Me

Pirates of the Caribbean

Pairing: Will Turner x Reader

My Heart Calls Your Name

Tavern Brawls

Rise of the Guardians

Pairing: Jack Frost x Evening Star aka The Blue Fairy

Two Spirits Meet - Wishing on a Snowflake I,

Sherlock (BBC)

Pairing: Sherlock x Reader

Serendipity

The Consulting Detective and the Serial Killer

His Love for Her

Your Hand in Mine

Drunken Comfort

Its All Been Arranged

An Unconventional Love Story (Victorian Era AU)

Star Trek(2009)

Pairing: Spock x Kealoha

The Roommate Experiment - Prologue, Part One

Pairing: Spock x Reader

The Little Green Monster

Chasing Away The Darkness

Here For You (InProgress)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Pairing: Leonardo x Amal

Heaven’s Light

A Comforting Embrace

The Amazing Spiderman

Pairing: Peter Parker x Reader

A Nonverbal Confession

Falling For Him

Heal Together

Drunk on Pheromones

Take All The Time You Need

Falling for the Enemy

The Chronicles of Narnia

Pairing: Peter Pevensie x Reader

An Unexpected Turn

We Face It Together

Pairing: Edmund Pevensie x Reader

The King and the Commoner

The Hobbit

Creepy Crawlies (No Pairing)

Pairing: Kili x Reader

You Are Safe

The Lord of the Rings

Pairing: Legolas x Annúneth

Love Happens

Pairing: Legolas x Reader

We Meet Again A Confession Years In The Making

My Prayer, My Light, My Fëa

A Little Introduction to Rock Music

A Promise

Written In The Stars

Treasure Planet

Pairing: Jim Hawkins x Reader

A Little Competition Goes a Long Way

[raewritez]

for the want of the sun | chapter sixteen: another climb

a/n: hey guys…long time no see…

Zuko and I are by Iroh’s side the moment we hear him wake. It’s morning, and songbirds have found their perch in the forest outside. The sun streams through the rotting panels of wood, painting Iroh’s weary face in soft light.

“Uncle,” Zuko urges. Iroh breathes in, prying open his eyes. Zuko releases a sigh of relief, and so do I. “You were unconscious,” he says. “It was a surprise attack. Azula did this to you.”

Iroh pushes himself up. “Somehow, that’s not surprising.”

I stare at him in worry. “How are you feeling? I mean, obviously not great. I tried making the salve you taught me but I don’t know if I did it right-”

“I’m fine, my dear. Thank you.”

Zuko stands up and rushes to the kettle that we put on the fire. Neither of us really know how to make tea, we just used some of Iroh’s herbs that he had stashed away. I’d seen him do it enough times, but he makes it look easy.

He carries a cup of steaming tea over to us. “Here, Uncle. I hope we made it the way you like it.”

Iroh takes it from his hands gratefully and takes a sip. I see his eyes widen, his jaw clench.

Zuko looks at him hopefully. “How is it?”

“Good!” Iroh exclaims, a little forcefully. “Very, uh, bracing!”

Zuko gives me a satisfied smile. I give him a thumbs up, but when he turns away, I give Iroh an apologetic grin. He shakes his head with a smile.

Then, Zuko says: “Uncle, I’ve been thinking,” and I know that whatever he’s about to say is cause for concern.

“It’s only a matter of time until I run into Azula again,” he continues. “I’m going to need to know more advanced skills to face her.” He pauses. He sends the both of us a look. “I know what you two are going to say; she’s my sister and I should try to get along with her.”

I shake my head. “Um, no? She’s insane. And I’m not a firebender, so…”

Iroh nods. “Yes. She’s crazy and she needs to go down.” He pushes himself to stand, groaning as he does so. I reach out to help him but he waves me away. “It’s time to resume your training.”

Zuko nods solemnly. “Thank you, Uncle. I’m ready for this.”

—

He and Iroh hike up to the mountain peak in the evening, and hours pass before I hear the thunder. 

I’d busied myself with cooking, mixing together vegetables that I’d found in the overgrown garden outside the cabin. There’s carrots, tomatoes…not quite enough for a meal, but we’re working with what we can get. I spend most of the day alone. My mind wanders, and my chest hurts when I think about things for too long, but the sun is out and the grass is lit golden in the evening and I convince myself that it’s enough. When the rain comes in, I watch it through the window, and listen to the quiet melody of the droplets on the roof. 

When Iroh breaks through the door, obviously troubled, I stand, heart already racing. “What did he do?”

Iroh shakes his head, clearly distressed. “He wants to bend lightning. I told him he is not ready, but he won’t listen.”

“He’s out there?” The sky is dark, and the wind has picked up drastically. As usual, the mention of Zuko stirs anxiety in my body.

Iroh nods. “I’m still weak. I can’t…”

I nod. “It’s okay. I’m going.” I have no coat or protection from the rain, so I make my way to the door.

“Be careful, please,” Iroh says. 

The grass is slippery under my feet, and the wind whips at my face, and I scan my surroundings for Zuko. I hope I won’t find him fried somewhere.

It hasn’t been ten minutes when I see him, figure moving slowly down the mountain with shoulders hunched. “Zuko!” I yell, walking as fast as I can without slipping. I call a few more times before he notices me.

I’m shaking my head when I approach him. “What were you thinking?” I yell. “Bending lightning? You know how dangerous that is! You’ve been out here for hours…” I pause my lecture when I realize that the drops falling down his face are not just rain, and that his good eye is tinged in red, and that his face is raw with emotion that makes him look like a young boy.

I fall silent, staring. The rain is loud around us. He won’t meet my eyes, his gaze cast down to the ground, and his shoulders begin to shake.

“Zuko,” I whisper. I take a step forward. I’m surprised when he falls into me, arms reaching, pulling me to him. “I-”

“Please,” he chokes out, and his breaths are short and fast. “I can’t-” He’s shaking, and I grab his wrists that are placed on my shoulders.

“Zuko, breathe. It’s okay. You’re okay.” I’m trying, but he’s not with me. Not really. If he were more conscious, I’m sure he’d recoil at the touch we’re sharing, at his vulnerability. He’d be pulling away, but right now he’s not, so I’m trying. I place my hand on his chest. “Zuko. Look at me.”

He does. His eyes meet mine, glossed with tears and rainwater, a dull brown. I recognize then what the look is on his face: defeat. He shakes his head. “Why does this always happen? Why is it always so hard?”

I don’t know what to say. I don’t have an answer for him.

I pull him close to me. His arms wind around my waist, clutching, and I’ll let him have this moment of respite. He’s quiet, and I almost don't catch his whispered “I’m sorry,” but I do. I just hold him. I hold him until the rain stops.

—

We leave the next morning. Iroh’s well enough to get back on the road, the road to wherever we’re going. Our ostrich horses managed to follow us, so we saddle them up, Zuko with his Uncle, and me alone. Zuko avoids my eyes the whole morning. 

It’s later, when the afternoon sun is high and sweltering, and Zuko’s nonstop navigation has Iroh and I catching eyes that the day turns for the worse.

Iroh groans loudly, looking to see if Zuko noticed. When he receives no response, he does it again, until Zuko pulls back on the reins, closing his eyes in frustration that has me smirking. “Maybe we should take a break,” he says.

“No, please, don’t stop for me,” Iroh says, clutching his chest in faux pain. 

Zuko glares back at him. “Get off.”

Iroh slides off the saddle, triumphant. I hop to the ground, my knees almost buckling as I hit the earth, and my body screaming in the pain that comes from sitting still for hours on end. But almost as soon as I’m standing straight, I leap back, an arrow narrowly missing my foot.

“Woah!” I exclaim, tripping. 

“What was that?” Zuko calls, but the answer comes in the rumbling coming up the trail. A group of men dressed in red costumes surrounds us, an array of weapons raised. I step back quickly, coming to Zuko’s side, and he raises his hands in defense.

“Colonel Mongke!” Iroh exclaims. “What a pleasant surprise!”

A tall man with intricate facial hair lifts his head in disdain. “If you’re surprised we’re here, then the Dragon of the West has lost a few steps.”

Zuko glances at his uncle. “You know these guys?”

“Sure,” Iroh grins. Colonel Mongke and the Rough Rhinos are legendary. Each one is a different kind of weapon specialist. They are also a very capable singing group.”

I snicker. “Singing? Like acapella?”

The man glares down at me. “We’re not here to give a concert. We’re here to apprehend some fugitives!”

Iroh sighs. “Would you like some tea first? Jasmine, maybe? I’d love some.”

“Enough stalling,” the man scoffs. “Round them up!”

One of the other men begins swinging a ball and chain around, aiming at Iroh. Zuko shoots flames towards the group, while I leap over and quickly push at his pressure points. The chain falls to the ground with a clatter. When I look back, the men are slumped on the ground, and Iroh is pulling my arm to drag me to the ostrich horses. I grab the horn of the saddle, putting my foot in the stirrup before pushing myself to sit on top. 

“Go, go!” I yell, kicking at the horse’s sides. 

The three of us gallop down the trail, leaving the men in the dust. My chest is heaving as I try to catch my breath. I catch Zuko’s eyes, the shock prominent in both our faces. 

Iroh breathes in. “It’s always nice to see old friends.”

I can’t help the look I give him. It’s been a long day.

“Too bad you don’t have any friends that don’t want to kill you,” Zuko snarks, steering the reins. 

Iroh assumes a pensive look. “Hmm. Old friends that don’t want to kill me…”

—-

taglist: @aquaamethyst96 @kaygilles

[zukkaart]

A:tla characters as lyrics from “A Little Less Sixteen Candles, A Little More Touch Me”

(My opinions)

Aang: I confess, I messed up

Dropping "I'm sorry" like you're still around

Toph: She said, she said, she said, "Why don't you just drop dead?"

Katara: You're just the girl all the boys want to dance with

Sokka: You said you’d keep me honest, but I won’t call you on it

Zuko: I’m just the boy who’s had too many chances

Suki: I'm sleeping on your folk's porch again, dreaming

Azula: I don't blame you for being you / But you can't blame me for hating it

Mai: So say, what are you waiting for? / Kiss her, kiss her

Ty Lee: You can make all the moves

/ You can aim all the spotlights / Get all the sighs and the moans just right

Jet: I'm just off, a lost cause / A long shot, don't even take this bet