#and I can't wait to see what they do with zutara

[yourhighness6]

The Power Couples in the Netflix Trailer

Sukka being badass and fighting the FN together

Zutara having their once-a-book iconic fight scene™

[zukosdualdao]

just… the absolute trust between zutara in the finale is unreal. after zuko’s impromptu training attack session, yes, katara is surprised and even somewhat angry as she confronts him, but when she says “you could have hurt aang!” all it reminds me of is the fact that just a few episodes ago, she literally threatened to kill him if he ever gave her a reason to think he might so something to hurt aang. but here, now, even as she’s confronting him, she just… waits for him to explain, and she actually sees and agrees with his point once zuko tells the gaang about ozai’s plan.

there is also the absolutely, 100% synchronized way they fight during the simulated training session, something that calls back to their synchronization and teamwork in the southern raiders, and that inherently shows a lot of trust and understanding between them.

katara is the one who initially asks zuko what they should do after aang disappears. everyone else agrees, but it's katara who trusts him enough to position him, not just to herself but to everyone else, as someone they should listen to because of his history, skill, and experience, especially noteworthy because the reason she gives—“you are sort of the expert at tracking the avatar”—is what used to make him untrustworthy in their eyes. they’ve come such a long way.

then katara notices zuko freeze and sit in front of iroh’s tent, and when she asks if he’s okay, he just… completely trusts her with exactly what he’s feeling, and if he’s even a little worried that what he’s saying might cause her to act derisively, because what he’s referencing here is also what katara was angry and hurt about, he doesn’t show it. he just so completely trusts her with it, and her insistence that iroh will forgive him is born from her own trust of zuko, and she's able to tell him what he needs to hear because she was once in iroh's position and zuko proved his genuine remorse and care to her.

then, of course, we've got zuko not missing a beat as he asks katara to be the one to come with him to confront azula, and her ready acceptance. they make a good team, and they know it.

but when they get there and azula challenges zuko to an agni kai - though she initially has misgivings, katara ultimately trusts zuko when he says he can handle it and understands that he doesn't want her to get hurt if she doesn't have to. (an aspect of zuko's "i can't explain it, but she's slipping" line that i think gets underexamined, btw, is that that's not an inherently good thing for them. yes, maybe that means zuko will be able to take her, particularly because he knows azula and her fighting style well. but someone who is "slipping" is also, in this case, desperate, and more prone to being reckless with people's lives. zuko tries to mitigate that by fighting her alone, but it doesn't work because azula can't follow the terms she sets when she realizes she's losing.)

the lightning scene is a really interesting example of trust as it relates to zuko and katara, because to me, the emphasis there isn't quite so much on zuko and katara trusting each other. there's barely time for katara to think through what will happen to as azula aims for her or wonder what zuko will do, after all, and zuko is probably in too much pain and too out of it to think about katara coming to try to heal him. (though if they did have the time and mental faculties to think it through, i think they would both 120 percent trust the other to help them.)

instead, the emphasis is on the audience trusting the characters. from the moment zuko sees where azula's aiming, he doesn't hesitate, doesn't even think about, just. immediately jumps in front of the lightning before it can reach katara. i've said this before, but as soon as he understood what was happening, there was just no chance of that lightning ever getting to katara and that's the point. we've seen what zuko looks like when he's hesitating or conflicted, and the difference is stark. the show never wants you to question exactly what zuko will do, that he refuses to let katara get heart, that he'll save her.

and for her part, katara immediately runs to try and save zuko despite azula still being around and attacking, and tries again before realizing she needs to defeat azula in order to do so. but the entire scene of katara's defeating her, while obviously heroic and emblematic of katara's power and the culmination of her arc as a girl whose culture and identity was nearly stripped away from her to being a master waterbender, is also framed as katara defeating azula so she can get to zuko. she would have done it anyways, yes, but in this context, right now, she is fighting azula so she can get to zuko to heal him.

here, in the narrative culmination of their arcs together, it shows not just that they trust each other, but asks the audience to not doubt the development of the dynamic that’s been built, to trust that they will take care of each other. and they do.

[coffee-with-mint-syrup]

The case of live-action atla zutara.

First of all, the scarf scene. I won't be repeating myself, here are some main points - there was absolutely no reason for Zuko to act the way he did and for the scene to be shot this dramatically. Even if they did the shipbaiting in this scene - it means there's a ship which is much more than live-action kataang has at this point. Also I don't really think these guys are shipbaiting type but that's just the impression I got.

Then - the second obvious one - Oma and Shu's visuals. We have star-crossed lovers from two towns at war, basically the local equivalent of Romeo and Juliet (as in legendary lovers who are known above all for their love) wearing coincidentally colors that are primarily associated with two of our characters (who shared this dramatically shot scene in the previous episode).

And I know, it may seem so insignificant - but but but but! - you have to think about this. Of course there are creators, writers and showrunners that are unaware of some non-canon ships or don't care about them. But it's not the case for atla. No, creators of atla were so aware of zutara - they wrote a parody scene in a in-world trashy play to mock this fan pairing and it still proved absolutely nothing and just gave zutara more content. The creators and writers of this adaptation clearly had the discussion "what we should do with kataang" - because there is no trace of kataang in the 1st season. So it was a conscious decision to omit that - but where would the romantic subplot go? Well, I don't know, but they are showrunners, they most certainly discussed options. They are clearly very, very, very much aware of zutara. And they still do this? They still show us Oma and Shu wearing red and blue? All they had to do is to give at least one of them any different color. Any. But they didn't. (for fuck sake, it is the Earth Kingdom - yellow and green would do it)

There were zero, no, nada Kataang interactions, implications or those scenes that are filmed just a little bit too dramatically like the scarf one. I don't know, there's still a chance that they will wait for season 3 to make Aang's crush on Katara happen. I'm also not so sure what will happen to Aang failing to open seventh chakra, I mean - his love for Katara has a huge purpose in series, so it still doesn't look very good. But you can't even imagine how glad I am that they didn't do this secret tunnel thing. It was very uncomfortable.

So it was the more fact-based part of my case, let's get to the irrational, almost delusional part, tin foil hat probably needed.

Almost all the scenes Zuko and Katara shared in the first season kept reminding me of another famous enemies-to-lovers ship that actually became canon in the infamous final episode - Reylo, the way it was filmed in The Force Awakens. I mean - the first fight in the woods where she looses, the intensity of him staring at her, the final fight in snowy location where she kicks his ass and shows her mastering this superpower, him trying to talk to her during this fight and mentioning her learning/having to learn...Zuko calling Katara a peasant reminded me of this "Rey is no one" discourse. I don't know man, I haven't thought about The Force Awakens reylo for a very long time and it just kept popping in my head.

All of this - it's like a blueprint for enemies to lovers.

Also I actually think that the look they shared in the 2nd episode was also shot kinda weirdly and dramatically. It's not to the extent of the scarf scene but I do remember thinking that "why did they film it they way? it's too intense".

In the conclusion I'd like to say that as much as I like all the season 1 zutara stuff they left out in the adaptation - necklace subplot and implications, pirates and the famous "You rise with the moon, I rise with the sun" - I think I actually prefer the scarf scene. Yes, it would be so great to see those things in adaptation but in the end of the day they would still be just the things they kept from the original and probably noting more. Like the cabbages or the secret tunnel song or anything else, just things from the source material that implicate nothing. While the scarf scene, the Oma and Shu's clothes - it means they made a conscious decision to make it that way. It means they put some thought into that and some meaning. And this gives me hope there's a chance for Zutara in this adaptation.

P.S. I told about this my sister who hasn't watch the series yet and she said "I think people who made this show are just shipping zutara in secret". I do not necessarily imply she might be right - but creators of animated series (the very same people that made kataang canon, not zutara) DID leave because of some creative differences and because they couldn't control creative decision. Might as well be THAT kind of decision.

[rifari2037]

Here we go again!! Okay, let me breath first!! 😮‍💨😮‍💨

Zuko was 16 years old, Katara was 14 years old. So, their age gap was only 2 years!

2 YEARS!!!

It wasn't like Zuko was a grown man, while Katara was a little girl.

They were both teenagers!!!

A teenage girl having a crush on a teenage boy with 2 years age gap and vice versa was normal.

Aang was 12 years old boy, had a crush on 14 years old Katara. What was their age gap? 2 YEARS!! So, when Katara was 16 years old, Aang was still 14 years old.

Jet was 16 years old, had a relationship with 14 years old Katara, yet no one talked about their age gap! What was their age gap again? 2 YEARS!!

It's not wrong but it doesn't feel right!

Even Anon said it's not wrong! But it doesn't feel right, because Anon just making things up to bashing Zutara!! Who cares if the arguments don't make any sense?

Katara literally bully Zuko, that's why we should ship Zukka??

That's called relationship development, Honey!

To show that two characters are well written, their interactions must have a reason and make sense. More importantly, there should be no holes/jumps (how to say that? I don't know the right word) in their development so it doesn't feel rushed or forced.

Anon said Zutara was the worst ship, but actually Zuko and Katara were well written because they act as they should!

Zuko and Katara were enemies and they act like enemies.

Katara and Zuko still enemies when they met in Crystal Catacomb, but then they tried to understand each other. They weren't friends yet when Zuko betrayed her.

Katara got mad and bullied him!

That's make sense!! I mean, what should Katara do after someone betrayed her? Hug him???

Actually, these scenes showed that Katara could vent her anger too, she could demand someone to understand her feeling, and not always her who understand others like she always did.

And what Zuko did? Yes, he made it up to her!! He understand what she needed and accompany her to facing her trauma without told her what she should or shouldn't do (except told her to get some rest).

Then Katara, by her own choice forgive him and they become partners/friends who can complement each other.

They even saved each other lives!!

What made them the worst ship after their relationship development written with this coherent storyline? No rushed, no forced. They were enemies to friends (and to lovers 😂) after all, of course they had conflicts like a great war.

And it was way way way better than, lets say...

Two characters fought in one episode, then they separated in a few episodes later, and they kissed in the end of the story without resolving their problem, even without any conversation at all.

Or like one character left their lover in jail, forgot about her for a few episodes, didn't even remember to release her out of the prison, and then they met again like nothing happened and kiss.

Those are examples of rushed and forced storylines.

Wait, those storylines sound familiar?? 🤔🤔

And what make Zukka better than Zutara, though? Why should I ship them?? Zukka were just crack ship and didn't even have relationship development!!

Or maybe because of this??

But, really? Because Zutara had more than that!

Or this??

Well, first of all, Sokka was going on a date with Suki. And second of all, don't forget their conversation after that!!

Sokka : So what's on your mind? Zuko : Your sister. She hates me! And I don't know why, but I do care what she thinks of me.

Or, maybe because they were so awkward toward each other that make them cute?

But it seems like these two teenagers were more awkward when they couldn't get rid of boyfriend-girlfriend allegations. Oh, wait, do I see a blush on their cheeks? I wonder why.

Well, what else?? Because I can't think of another scene in the show that makes Zukka a better ship than Zutara.

[missheavenfield1215]

I think taking the relationship between Beetlejuice and Lydia for granted in the new film is too hasty to say.

I know it's hard to tell them not to be hopeful when they've already released this kind of official material. I mean, have you seen this?!

Or the certainty that Lydia accepted without hesitation Beetlejuice's proposal to look for her daughter. (although it is more than obvious why she accepted it) min: 3:57

Or even this video... Are you really saying that a relationship is very difficult when you talk about his "relationship" with Lydia??

And let's also talk about this face... Jesus... It seems that Beetlejuice has found the love of his life when he sees Lydia. (Personally I think in the second GIF Beetlejuice is looking at his wedding cake or something else, because it seems that he is still with his back to her)

But I think there's something they're forgetting.

This has also come out and is behind the scenes.

You can use the ending of the musical (although I doubt it very much, Tim and Michael refuse to see the musical). Here I believe that Beetlejuice will choose Astrid or she herself will offer to marry him to save her mother and so they would kill Beetlejuice, staining her dress with his blood.

I'm not a person who gets excited when I see some romantic approach, I expect it to really happen.

Have they forgotten the unfinished ship ReyLo?? Zutara's discarded idea?? The bland romance between Lucy and Raoul? The main couple of Wish with Asha and Starboy who they discarded because #feminism?

I think this could be the same...

I feel like they're not really going to pair Lydia and Beetlejuice. Because even though their deal is transactional, (he helps her find her daughter and she marries him to bring him back to life and get him away from his ex-wife, Delores).

I feel like all these "shows of affection" are a farce... This comes across as:

-"Like why do you say you can't marry me?" "You say it's because you don't love me and I don't either?" "So here, take (literally) my heart and shut up."

I don't like to be so pessimistic, I really wish they stayed together, because for God's sake, they are an iconic couple in gothic horror and black comedy movies even though they have never really been a couple (plus ALL if not most Tim Burton movies have romance or proof that there was going to be a romance (like an unfinished pairing). As in Alice in Wonderland, Edward Scissorhands, Corpse Bride etc).

If the Beetlebabes is canonized, Tim Burton risks waves and a HUGE amount of hate for "pairing a girl with a disgusting adult" (even though in the movie Lydia is already an adult).

Beetlejuice has a picture of Lydia when she was a teenager, which means that he fell in love with her when she was an underage girl...

Even if he says that Beetlejuice and Lydia were created to be together (as some sort of "soulmates") and that at some point in a sequel they would make that a reality, there will be a lot of people who will be very angry about this.

I really don't think Tim Burton would risk all the criticism and hate...

Unless he makes the decision to defend this Ship openly, he will not do so without at least giving as an example the musical, whose directors ignored that detail (of the "soulmates", Perhaps because of the pressure to be politically correct by Broadway standards) because they did it at his expense and not with his help...

Let's remember that the musical and everything in it, is not from Tim Burton's own mind, but they did do what they wanted with his characters without consulting him first.

But I still thinking that claiming victory so hastily would be very bad for the whole Fandom.

I ask you not to celebrate such an abrupt "triumph"... The film has not yet been released.

I ask you to wait at least until the premiere of the film.

I ask you to wait until it is 100% confirmed.

[sokkastyles]

This is something I've turning around in my mind due to the general discourse around Katara "hating" Zuko, and obviously she doesn't hate him at all after TSR, but do you think she truly even /hated/ him after Ba Sing Se? She was absolutely within her right to be hurt and angry about his choice, and I'm glad the show actually let her hold onto that for awhile b/c so often K has to be the bigger person and manage everyone else's emotions, but being hurt and angry at someone, even lashing out at them b/c of that, isn't the same thing as hating them imo. Like tbh their entire vibe to me from the moment Zuko turns up at the Western Air Temple until TSR is exes after a bad breakup but there's still unresolved feelings there, which was certainly an interesting writing choice for them to go with (only made more so by the textbook romance writing grovelling in TSR.)

Yeah, she isn't mad at him because she hates him, she's mad at him because she cares about him, because she wanted to care about him, and because she thought he cared about her. Even when she tells the gaang that Zuko was "pretending to be a human being" in the catacombs, it gives the impression that she is trying to convince herself that what she's saying is true, that the moment they shared and the vulnerability Zuko showed in that moment wasn't real.

The other thing that gives the lie to the idea that Katara hates Zuko or just sees him as an enemy is that when she confronts him when they are alone, and threatens him, she doesn't react to him like she thinks he's lying about wanting to do the right thing, she confronts him about how "you and I both know you've struggled with doing the right thing in the past." In front of everyone else, she makes it seem like she thinks Zuko is just evil, but when she's alone with him, she makes it clear that she knows he isn't, and that this is really about how she can't trust him, how he broke her trust. It's personal, not just about him being fire nation.

And the fact that she waited to tell him this in private, while denying her feelings in public, is absolutely romantic coded. I've also pointed out before that the framing of the confrontation mirrors the final scene between Zuko and Mai (or rather, that the Zuko and Mai scene, which is explicitly romantically coded, mirrors this one), Katara standing in the doorway to interrupt Zuko's triumphant moment with a reminder that his past isn't so easily moved past, and a reminder of who he's hurt. It absolutely gives vibes of an ex who you still have feelings for.

Which is why it's hilarious that Bryke made that comment about zutara being a relationship you experience before realizing what you really need (with the implication that Katara really needs Aang and Zuko really needs Mai), because what it actually feels like is two people who were immediately drawn to each other, ended up hurting each other, broke it off, but then still had feelings for each other and ended the series closer than they were before. If Bryke really wanted us to think zutara were not good for each other, then there could have been a moment where, when Zuko and Katara get their closure with each other, there's also the G-rated equivalent of "let's just be friends." Maybe have Katara say something like, "I forgive you, but I can't make the choice you want me to make." This is also in an alternate universe where Zuko more explicitly encourages Katara to kill Yon Rah. But none of that happens. The episode does not tell us that Zuko is not good for Katara or vice versa. It has Katara end the episode by explicitly disagreeing with Aang and enthusiastically embracing Zuko without any hesitation at all.

That hug is so meaningful because it's the release of tension that the narrative has been building up since that moment in the catacombs. It's not that Katara hated Zuko but now cares about him, it's that she wanted to care about him way back in the catacombs and now she's able to express that without being afraid that he'll break her trust.

[fanfic-lover-girl]

Vegebul Poll

So I made a Dramione and Zutara poll already. I just read a great Vegebul fic a while back so let's do a Vegebul poll!

This poll is meant for anyone who ships Vegebul whatever your reason may be! I can't wait to see the results :)

If you genuinely don't ship Vegebul, please DNI.

Please reblog and share to increase sample size!

[ekwolfwriter-blog]

WIP Zutara Month Challenge: Brightest in the Dark

So this will be a moment to share a bit of a moment I hinted at in my Ghost of a Waterbender fic but I have a cute head cannon for Katara and Zuko and maybe write a snippet later.

But as for this, this is a little head canon that Zuko likes to call Katara his firecracker. Mostly because Katara reminds him of one when they were traveling to find Yon Rah. A firework that snaps and pops, but also produces the most beautiful lights in the darkest of nights. And you can only see them in the dark, so that is why she is the brightest to him. And since then Katara has not minded when he calls her firecracker.

Also, this HC came from this amazing song by Cami Cat of the same name: Firecracker also a bit of a coincidence that the characters look like Katara and Zuko. I know it was not intentional, but still, it helped a lot.

That being said, here is the snippet of what I had in mind when Zuko calls her it the first time:

"We are only here to get some provisions," she said as she was serious. "We can't get caught up in the fun. And don't try to tell me we can wait for the show. We will not." She snapped a little, but Zuko could tell there was a bit of sadness that they could not stay for long.

He nodded as he agreed, following her into the village festival time to look for food. It looked like they were celebrating something from the excessive amount of fire works being sold around the village and fire sticks and fire crackers. All to light the night up. Katara was determined to keep going but she could not help but stare ever now and then smiled at it.

Zuko was watching her as he was amazed she finally let a smile slip since she has been scowling and upset most of their trip. And rightfully so. But he could see her change from this hard exterior before shinning brighter than any star in the sky.

Katara looked at him and then it turned sour again, but Zuko was still smiling as she asked. "What are you smiling about?"

Zuko chuckled. "I think I know what makes you interesting," he said. "And in a good way, mind you." He affirmed before getting smacked in the arm by her.

"What do you mean?" she asked.

"You are like a firecracker," he said.

Katara raised an eyebrow as she was confused. "What are you talking about?"

"Firecrackers are very much like the name suggest: fast, resilient, a bit quick tempered when mad, but they shine the brightest in the dark."

Katara was not sure what to think of it. It felt like he was trying to compliment her but not saying it out right. "So... is that good or bad?"

"You tell me, miss firecracker."

Katara blushed as she did not expect his teasing to hit her like that. And her heart skipping a beat. He was so lucky they were in a Fire Nation village, otherwise she would soak him. But to hide her face, she turned away. "Come on, we need to go."

"As you wish," he said and dropped it for now. But Zuko found a new name he was more than happy to call this fiery waterbender that has fire to his own heart.

One more, but it will be a bit. But I promise, it will be a good one.

[bridgerteon]

This is going to be an extremely long thread of my opinion about Bridgerton S3, especially Polin (and comparing Polin to a certain ATLA ship). So, good luck reading it.

I knew there are a lot of mixed opinions about Bridgerton S3; I have too. Around 50-60% from the book, Romancing Mr Bridgerton, has adapted to the show, which I, as a book reader, am happy to see. I also love the changes from the book that showcases Penelope (and Nicola Coughlan) to shine with awesomeness and deserves a lot of love and recognition after what she's been through.

I can understand why Netflix split into two parts. Part 1 is entertaining, pining and rom-com. While Part 2 is anxiety, emotional and romantic drama. Probably to let viewers breathe. But please don't do that again; I like to binge the whole thing without waiting.

There are:

- Great scenes -> Portia reconciling to Pen and being supportive (thanks Colin!) and Pen having the confidence to reveal herself as Lady Whistledown (LW), instead of letting Colin steal the spotlight for her. Also the Francesca/John romance as they "match their freak". There's actually a lot of great scenes, from Keeping Up With The Featheringtons to Peneloise reconciliation.

- Revenge scenes I like -> Penelope telling off Colin for being an asshole. Also, Lord Debling courting Penelope, making Colin jealous. The Vindication™ for Pen because that's how she feels.

- Some I groaned -> a threesome? Like really? I find it funny, but cringy.

- Some I am suspicious -> Michael Stirling [man] is gender-swapped to Michaela Stirling [woman], but I'm more cautious than angry about the change. Michaela is so goddamn pretty though, heh. I don't mind inclusivity, but it should be addressed with care if it's done for a main Bridgerton character. Besides, I like Francesca's story from the book, When He Was Wicked, and how it explains about infertility. My opinion is that the showrunner should just keep the characters and important parts of the storyline as it is. But I'll see how it goes and hope for the best.

- And others that make no sense -> the lack of Kanthony, like where are they!? And why do they disappear all the time!? This is not them as they are always attentive. They were excellent in managing the Bridgertons and their mess. I love Kanthony so bring them back!!!

What I will analyse and defend is Show Polin.

When I read negative reviews about them, I shake my head in disappointment because the fans didn't understand it. It's like some people have a lack of media literacy. I'm open-minded and I like to analyse critically how and why it happens rather than comparing with other seasons of Bridgerton; I see the show as a separate entity from the books and I still enjoy it as it is. Therefore, I have better comprehension. I also read an article where Luke Newton explains why Colin is Jelly, as shown below. His insight justifies my point.

Since I read RMB, it does give me first-hand insight on the up-and-down relationship between Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington-Bridgerton. I also included a favourite ship of mine from Avatar: the Last Airbender (ATLA) for comparison and how Polin's dynamics makes sense to me. (There's no need to have knowledge of ATLA).

So here's my opinion about Polin:

To be honest, I was expecting Katara/Aang tropes in Polin, as they are both friends-to-lovers ships obviously. What I don't expect is that show Polin is more related to Katara/Zuko (Zutara) instead, which is awesome (as an unfortunate Zutara shipper)!

I find Polin's love story to be as realistic as possible, knowing that a love story is not all sunshines, lollipops and rainbows. There will be disputes, doubts and secrets; I'm satisfied that they are addressed. However, there are some scenes from Polin that I am mad about or feeling something is missing.

Also, I DON'T CARE that Polin does not have the CHEMISTRY similar to Kanthony or Saphne(?) (Simon/Daphne). They have the CONNECTION with each other. Friends-to-lovers don't need chemistry; it rarely exists in real life. Friends-to-lovers stories are messy, awkward and full of disagreements, but the connection and their love for each other is always there between them. They are there since Season 1, are always seeking each other and are always themselves around each other. That's as real as it gets.

Themes I like from Polin and how it compares to Zutara:

1. Hiding their true self: Colin having some swag, being impassive, nonchalant mood, and goes to brothels; I find it weird. However, someone analysed that it's a facade because Penelope doesn't write to him, so he went on a teen girl phase and lost his damn mind, heh. Eloise, Pen and Violet know that that is not the Real Colin, who is a soft boi. He mentions that he is yearning for home and wants to feel like he belongs somewhere and to be seen for who he truly is.

This is similar to Zuko when he was sad/mad that he was banished and his father didn't love him, so his personality became antagonistic. Iroh knew that's not the Real Zuko, who was a gentle boi. Therefore, Iroh planned to nudge Zuko to a different side rather than following Ozai's goals.

Additionally, Penelope disguises herself as Lady Whistledown, Katara as The Painted Lady, Zuko as The Blue Spirit, and Colin as The Travelling Englishman/Pirate.

2. BETRAYAL: (I can't emphasise this enough because this theme let's me understand and love Polin). Penelope is anguished about Colin's comments that he don't give a 💩 about her and will never court her (Le Asshole 101 😒). Colin is heartbroken that Pen is LW*. Katara and Iroh were shattered that Zuko joined Azula to fight against Aang in Ba Sing Se. All of these events are unforgivable.

*(The fact that Luke Newton cried in the LW reveal scene as well as angry portrays Colin as heartbroken than enraged, which makes the scene more heartwrenching. I like that so much better than Colin having a temper like in the books and Katara just enraged when Zuko attacked her in Ba Sing Se. Thanks, Luke Newton, for making me feel sorry for Colin 😏).

Another one is that Colin argues with Penelope that she wrote negative comments on LW about his family, Marina Thompson (in my opinion, she deserved it for being deceptive), himself, herself and everyone else. He also feels that she has a "planned entrapment" for him to marry her, even though I knew he didn't mean it; he is devastated that she is not who she seems to be. Colin wants to feel needed and really yearns to love her fully because he wants to provide everything for her. But he doesn't think he's enough or unworthy for Pen and that he's not sure he'll ever accept Pen as LW, which makes me sad. Also... he's envious that she's more successful than him since she's rich as hell, an experienced writer and got her 💩 together; something he wants to achieve. But dude, you married a Sugar Mama! Similarly, Katara argued with Zuko after the Ba Sing Se fiasco and told him to bring her mother back; I found it absurd too, but I knew she was upset for being deceived and hurt as well, like Colin.

3. Self-confidence and accountability: Pen has brought her own voice to address the whole Ton that she is LW and to let them judge her. Nicola Coughlan has done it perfectly in that, as a shy but confident woman. She understands that people are hurt from her comments, but she wants to have a purpose - not as a spy though, heh. She wants the world where women, especially shy wallflowers, are seen and shine brighter as well in a patriarchy world. Also she understands that Colin is upset that she is LW, but she's adamant that she is and nothing will separate LW from her. LW is power and it helps women like Penelope earn her place in society, besides dilly-dally.

Also, Colin pushes Lord Debling away so that Colin can have a moment with Pen to change her mind and make her pick him, choose him and love him. He doesn't care that the Ton sees them, he just sees Pen. Also the way "he ran!" (thanks Dallas Liu 😏) to Pen's carriage just to confess to her. He is confident of his feelings for her, but respectful if she rejects him.

Same goes with Katara that she wanted a world where women can choose to learn waterbending to fight and men to learn healing, or both. And to Zuko that he had redeemed himself and wanted to end the war as the Firelord with ideals that brought all nations together in peace and harmony.

4. Accepting flaws and empathy: Colin accepts that Pen is LW, because he finally realises why while begging to Cressida: the isolation, the bullying, being ostracised and unappreciated, and the anger that no one will ever recognise, listen or stand up to her. But he knows she's not heartless and does regret her words that are published. Also, her letters to him amplifies that she is a great writer and that her and LW are the same person. After Pen reveals herself to the Ton that she is LW, apologises for it and explains why, Colin is more proud and in love with her.

Zuko saw Katara bloodbending (manipulating bodies through their blood). He was surprised. He didn't question it. He didn't chastise her that it's bad or that she's not herself. He accepted it as part of herself. He just wanted her to face her past and let her choose her fate. The End.

5. Conflict: Colin and Pen love each other so much, despite a Great Wall of Anger and Doubt separating them. Katara knew Zuko was not evil, but had to separate Zuko the Fire Prince with Zuko the Awkward, Caring, Flawed Boi.

Also, Katara and Zuko saw each other as legit rivals during the 100-year war. Meanwhile... well... Colin does see Pen as a rival... indirectly though as she's LW, while he is... just a Bridgerton... with no accomplishments... and a loser, heh.

6. Partnership: Pen agrees with Colin that he'll help her find a husband (even though he hired himself as one, heh). Also, Colin and Pen become writers together, as an author and columnist respectively. All hail Lord and Lady Whistledown! 🙇‍♀️ Meanwhile, Katara and Zuko became partners to find the one who killed her mother, fought together side-by-side during training and trusted each other to defeat Azula.

Extra: There's also a lot of love confessions and moments from Polin that made me giddy with joy, sad and amused (and jealousy for being single). Especially... That carriage scene, heh.

Now for the things I'm disappointed about Polin:

1. Colin doesn't tell Penelope that he forgives her verbally. Like since when did he forgive her? Katara told Zuko verbally that she forgave him, so why doesn't Colin say it to Pen? Same applies to Pen: where's her forgiveness to Colin? Unless I forget.

2. There's a quote from the book I like that Colin says “I love you. I love you with my past, and I love you for my future. I love you for the children we'll have and for the years we'll have together. I love you for every one of my smiles, and even more, for every one of your smiles” to Pen before he leaves to beg Cressida as Pen's distressed about Cressida blackmailing her. I'm sad that one is excluded.

3. Colin being an asshole for not allowing Penelope to let her fix her mess nor asking for his support at the start. Saying that "it is not up to you what we do", probably because he wants to be a hero. Dude, calm down, listen to your wife and compromise. Penelope can handle herself and does not need him to fix it for her, like she said "I do not need you to save me, I just need you to stand by me." I think it makes him feel useless as he likes to help and being needed 24/7. Besides, he makes it worse after begging Cressida, heh. Zuko survived listening to Katara's rants and threats against him, and he still wanted to make it up to her, so Colin should do the same.

4. Colin being a Drama Queen™ for not sleeping with Pen because he's an idiota; he reminds me of both Katara and Zuko since they were both Drama Queens™ as well, heh. However, it broke my heart for Pen; she deserves better and deserves to have a wedding night full of love, not doubt. Fortunately, he does sleep near their room - like Zuko waited for Katara outside her tent - because Colin still deeply loves Pen and wants to feel closer to her, despite being pissy with her. Also, he sleeps on a chaise lounge where they made love because it reminds him of the happiness they have shared before the LW mess. Additionally, he ignores his lust for her while pissed, but I think it's a good idea not to have angry sex as it's just not healthy emotionally and mentally for them.

5. It would be nice if Colin allows Pen to read or discuss his journals more, like in the books. I want to hear his thoughts more. Or maybe the backstory of how Penelope becomes LW.

6. I really want to see more of the lovey-dovey happy Polin moments without any doubts or lies between them; it's not enough. Where's the Polin sex?! Gimme more happy Polin!!!

So that's my long analysis about S3 and why I like Polin, the good and bad. Also, Polin did change my whole opinion about friends-to-lovers stories after I had a sour taste of it from a ship I'm not supportive to, but that is for another story to tell. 

[mysticwolfshadows]

Taken - Zutara - Part 32

First / Previous / Next

It wasn't easy for Katara to explain to the others, and when she had been at a loss for words, Zuko had gotten the other two to drop it.

But it gave Katara an idea.

They wait a few hours, when the house would be busy preparing dinner, and Katara and Zuko would sneak in. Since the Blind Bandit, Toph Beifong, clearly doesn't like Aang at the moment, maybe a chat between to fellow captives would help sooth things over. So, dressed in dark clothes that will only help hide from the guards, they leave Aang and Sokka outside and sneak into the garden once more.

"I thought I told you to leave," Toph said, standing there as if she had been waiting for them.

"I just want a chance to talk," Katara said, moving to sit on the ground. Zuko stays standing behind her. "Prisoner to prisoner."

Toph jerks, clearly surprised. Still, she didn't scream, and she slowly crept forward. "You're not a prisoner anymore."

"No," Katara mused. "But it wasn't easy to escape. I wasn't even conscious when I did. Someone else had to rescue me."

The younger girl creeps a little closer. "It's different though. For me. These are my parents, not... whoever had you."

"The Fire Nation." She can feel Zuko tense, but gives him a small smile. "But it doesn't change the fact that I know what you're going through. How you're feeling."

Toph dropped to the ground with a huff, crossing her arms, glowering even as she sat so close to Katara. "No you don't. I've been blind all my life, but with my bending, I've always been able to see. More than anyone else. My parents still treat me like I'm helpless."

"My parents were like that when I returned home. It was smothering. Someone always watching. It felt like moving from one prison to another. But I broke free. I showed my parents what I could do, and proved I didn't need their 'protection' anymore." She paused, then added, "we can help you do that, if you let us."

Toph was silent, clearly thinking it over. Her face was pinched tightly, a mix of emotions going across her face, and Katara sympathized. She stood.

"You don't have to answer right now," Katara said. "Our whole group is going to come back in about an hour. We'll pull the Avatar card for food and board for the night. In the morning, if you like, we can help you tell your parents and you can come with us." She thought for a moment. "We'll help you tell your parents, even if you don't come with us. Remember that."

She turned to Zuko, giving him a nod, and they made their way back out the garden. When they joined back up with Sokka and Aang, they got changed and waited an hour. Just as Katara promised, they returned to the Beifong estate, telling the attendant at the front gate that they were the Avatar's group, and had heard that the Beifong's were good people who may be able to help them for the night.

When they're welcomed in, they're greeted with an extravagant dinner. Tea, roasted duck, and a pleasant smelling soup. There was no vegetarian options, and Lord and Lady Beifong were drinking. They even served plain white rice, a show of how unwelcome they really were. She didn't know if the Beifong's knew of Katara's background, if they knew that she knew the insults they were giving, but she held her tongue for now.

Katara sits prim and proper, like she did in the Fire Palace, and keeps her eyes down and her mouth shut. She doesn't want to let anything slip, if Toph decides not to join them. It's a good thing she does, since she had to grit her teeth to not snap at Lao Beifong when he tells a servant to blow on Toph's tea for her.

"I'd like to defeat the Fire Lord by the end of summer," Aang is saying to Toph's father, "but I can't do that without finding an earthbending teacher first."

"Master Yu is the finest teacher in the land. In fact, he's been Toph's teacher since she was young."

She had told Aang, under no circumstances, was he to press Toph to teach him. But when she hears "Then she-" Katara quickly cuts in.

"We've actually seen one of Master Yu's lessons." She lifts her head, shooting Aang a look, before bowing her head to Lord Beifong. "But Avatar Aang is, first and foremost, an Airbender. It makes learning traditional bending of other forms a bit more difficult. And, as Earth is the opposite of Air, he needs a more specialized teacher, whose style is more suited to blend with his unique original bending." She glanced over at the man in question. "Master Yu simply doesn't have that."

The Earthbending Master sputters, clearly insulted, but Katara reaches for her tea. She wasn't feeling all that nice at the moment."

"Though, I must thank you, Lord Beifong," Katara mused. "If I remember correctly, it was your house that bought the vast majority of our exported snow crab."

Lady Beifong blinked. "Your... snow crab?"

Katara nodded, gesturing to Sokka. "After our father, the Chief, left to join the war front, my brother and I were left in charge of the tribe in his absence. We arranged for Lee's family-" She gestured to Zuko. "-to export several goods for us. If I remember correctly, your family was very eager for our snow crab and ambergris."

Lord Beifong paled, seeming to realize that the Avatar's companions weren't the backwater bumpkins he clearly expected. "We haven't received any shipments in months."

"Yes, I suppose that would be our fault. When we found Avatar Aang, we shifted fully to focusing on ending the war." Humming, Katara sipped her tea. "Tell me, Lord Beifong, how have you helped the war effort?"

When Lord Beifong couldn't answer, Lady Beifong cleared her throat. "I think now would be a good time for desert, hm?"

Katara smiled. "My apologizes, Lady Beifong, but we really should be resting. We have to move on at dawn."

The others followed her lead, standing from their seats and following a servant into the hall. Sokka complained about not getting to eat more, but Zuko elbowed him to shut him up. Aang walked next to Katara, keeping his voice low.

"Are you sure that was a good idea?" Aang asked. "Insulting them like that?"

"I had to distract them from what you were saying," she sighed, eyeing him. "It's her right to decide what to do next. We can't force her to join us."

Aang sighed. "You're right... Sorry, I got a little carried away. I'm going to check on Appa."

Nodding, Katara went to her own room. How much trouble could Aang get up to in a few minutes with a ten-ton bison?

According to the ransom note they find not an hour later, a lot.

First / Previous / Next

[ultfreakme]

Kiawentiio (when answering about Kataang): it’s still just the first season but uhh they’re family *proceeds to explain the concept of found family*

Gordon: She’s my … uhh… family. Also, the one other person I did a chemistry read with outside of Dallas was Kiawentiio.

Albert Kim: Us doing Cave of Two Lovers doesn’t mean we won’t do Kataang. That’s a future storyline to be explored. Also, the finale I wrote with Katara’s speech was definitely meant to be romantic.

Everyone: Zutara will 100% be endgame

Gordon and Kiawentiio are so funny when they have to talk about Aang and Katara's relationship because they clearly don't want to spoil anything or hint at things, but they accidentally keep walking into conversations where they have to talk about it hdbfjgbhb it's cute.

"Yeah Aaang and Katara are uhhhhh- friends- and family. Yep just that just found family ya know"

The final speech is so good ;_; This Aang thinks that he can be nothing but the Avatar. He's not of this time, there is no home for him, and all the Avatars are telling him to keep his distance from people. He's feeling isolated, unwanted as just Aang, and alone. Katara tries to reach out but he isn't letting her.

Him merging with the ocean spirit in this version feels sadder because he's willing to lose all of himself. He just seems...done. But Katara is telling him that no, he isn't alone, that she'll stick by him so please just come back and I- I'M CRYING.;_; (I screamed at that part where Yue said the Ocean spirit will forever search for its other half and it cut to AANG AND KATARA AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH)

(and i don't wanna diss or look down on zutara as a ship, but, zutara feels even more impossible in NATLA considering Katara gets flashbacks to the worst moment of her life at the sight of Zuko and the final fight is kinda symbolized as her being able to find strength and treasure the good times with her mother, overcoming the trauma FN inflicted upon her. Zuko is all her worst fears, he almost took away her brother too like come on).

Kataang is integral to ATLA in all its forms, like you can't make a true and honest ATLA adaptation without Kataang. Also I kinda liked the new take on Cave of Two Lovers. Familial and platonic love is important too <3<3(just remembered that multiple people called it incestuous?????? now that's just in bad faith like what is wrong with you?) We got some Sokka-Katara sibling bonding and resolution, I liked seeing them interact.

I think season 2 is going to have a lot more romantic moments between Kataand and I can't wait!!!

[burst-of-iridescent]

atla live action thoughts: episodes 7 & 8

SPOILERS AHEAD

tw: opinions

things i liked:

i keep forgetting to say this but i love the stylization of the opening credits it looks so elegant

northern water tribe looks beautiful. the spirit oasis is stunning, this show almost never fails to deliver on visuals

i fucking KNEW they were going to end the season with azula producing lightning for the first time and it looks great i won't lie. can't wait for her blue fire

the pakku v katara fight is not bad actually, though it obviously doesn't hold a candle to the original. glad they kept the ice discs moment in because that was iconic and it does have a nice set-up of her learning it from the earthbenders

i do like that they allow aang to interact with different avatars and that they all give him different perspectives. it highlights the differences in their personalities and how the role of the avatar had to be adapted to the times they lived in

i can't remember exactly what it was but aang's line about how this isn't his world or his time went hard

"i underestimated zhao" "funny i figured that out as i was swimming away from the burning wreckage of my boat" i live for sassy zuko

good decision to take out pakku only deciding to teach katara because she was kanna's granddaughter. that reeked of exceptionalism and never sat right with me, so i appreciate that she at least proves herself and also that she includes the other women in the tribe when pushing him to let them fight

yugoda getting to yell at pakku for being a misogynistic idiot is exactly what she deserves, you tell him queen

KOIZILLA!!

seeing the fall of omashu to azula was an addition that made a lot of sense, and sets up the return to omashu episode in the next season nicely

things i disliked:

yue's wig was atrocious. can't believe i'm saying this but the shyamalan movie did it better. amber midthunder deserved so much better

the misogyny arc was a godforsaken mess. the northern water tribe is still sexist... but no one seems to be sexist except for pakku?? chief arnook seems to be grooming yue to take over as chief, the other male waterbenders are impressed by katara and respect her right away, yue seems to have a lot of autonomy, hahn is respectful and kind, and then pakku himself changes his mind on women fighting pretty much within one day. so what was the point of including it at all?

this show has completely nuked katara's rage. she would not be calmly announcing that she's fighting pakku as though it was a calculated decision because it very much wasn't! it was her sense of righteousness and outrage over injustice taking over and it hurts me deeply that they removed that because it's so important to who she is! i needed to see a LOT more power and fury in her in this scene but instead it felt extremely lukewarm

KATARA AND AANG NEVER. FUCKING. LEARN. WATERBENDING. for a show that marketed itself so heavily with the tagline "master your element" there isn't a lot of mastering going on here?? i'm sorry i don't buy at ALL that katara would be able to become a master with One waterbending scroll and watching some earthbenders. i know she's a prodigy but no one can be THAT prodigious. and it really makes her fight with zuko and subsequently being called master katara fall flat because i don't think i've been shown enough to justify that

also hate that my girl got knocked out halfway through the zutara fight because of the moon wtaf let her kick zuko's ass

a moment of silence for "aren't you a big girl now" and "you rise with the moon, i rise with the sun" you will always be famous

despite knowing the avatar needs to learn waterbending, pakku and arnook just?? walk away?? when they find out he hasn't??? SOMEONE TEACH THIS POOR BOY AN ELEMENT OTHER THAN AIR. ANY ELEMENT, I'M BEGGING

real quick, who had "momo saves a random little girl from falling rock only to be nearly killed and saved by yue and sokka in the spirit oasis" on their live action bingo? no one, that's who, BECAUSE THAT'S FUCKING BONKERS. people are dying all around them but sokka and yue decide this is the time to fuck off to save a lemur?? please be so fr

iroh telling zuko to remember his breath of fire when this show has not once established (at least, iirc) that power in firebending comes from the breath is... something. heavily dislike how little focus was given to the intricacies of learning bending in this series

HATE that they removed zhao dying because of koizilla and gave it to iroh instead. that was such a great moment of karmic justice for zhao and really highlighted how he brought about his own downfall through his pride and arrogance. i know they tried to show zuko's compassion by having him spare zhao and walk away (as a callback to the agni kai i'm guessing) but zuko risking himself to save the life of the man who tried to kill him in the original just hit SO much harder.

the pacing of the north pole arc in general was FAR too rushed. at least in the original animation we got the sense that they'd spent weeks there, but in the show it feels like it's been a couple of days MAX. there had to be much more time to build up the threat of the fire nation and the yue/sokka relationship

the sense of time passing was a problem i anticipated the show would have from the start because 8 episodes just feels shorter than 20, but i wish they'd at least done some montages or something to make it seem like time was passing between episodes. as it is, it felt like every episode picked up right after the previous and so the whole season felt like it happened within a week or two. which is a shame because it weakens the epic scale of their journey in having to cross the entire world

overall rating: 6/10. unfortunately i think these episodes were the weakest of the series both in quality of writing and entertainment value, but still fun to watch for the most part

[mayskalih]

💛 Kakasaku & Zutara are my favorite ships, but I love your style so even if it's not a ship I'm into, I'm still pumped to see it! I can't wait for the KKSK zine to come out to see what you've created, and I have been following your no-avatar AU too. You're just the best

thank you so much! I'm doing 5 separate arts for kksk zine hehe

[coffee-with-mint-syrup]

I'm so sorry, I really was gonna just note all the "maybe there's a chance for zutara" stuff as a draft and post it all at once later. I really did.

But I've watched the 3rd episode and I just can't get over the scarf scene.

I mean - there was no need, absolutely no need for Zuko to just do this intense stare and then touch Katara's scarf so... how do I put it?.. No need to frame or slow motion it like that or to focus on it. Why is he just standing there and blatantly looking at her? Why he's not attacking or grubbing her if he wanted to catch her? Why he didn't hide his face if he was gonna follow her secretly? Why he waited for her to bump into him just face to face? He's not even trying to dodge. Filming it this exact way has no sense other then building up a tension between them. And it doesn't even look like "they are going to fight almost to death for the next 2 seasons" type of tension!

And I know, I've watched the animated series too, whether you see them as romance coded or as platonic enemies to friends they probably have the strongest tension in the entire series. You could say that they are trying to build up tension like that. But I'd say - I'd maybe believe that if it was only the stare and the bump. The scarf thing? Un-fucking-explicable. I've rewatched this scene like 5 times (more than 5 actually), I really wanted to see something other than what I want to see - I just can't. Why to let it slip through his fingers, why to look at his hand afterwards? Why?

I don't know man. Probably I'm just deluding myself. But it all kinda gives me reylo from the force awakens vibes. And they are strong.

[nono-bunny]

I was a bit worried about hearing Zack Tyler Eisen on the podcast because I read someone quote him on saying "it's all in your head buddy" about Zutara, which??? Doesn't sound great, and after how rude Bryke were I grew to be wary of Kataang shippers on the podcast, even though Janet does a great job or keeping them in check as much as possible and Dante is fantastic at easing the tension... I just don't like being condescended to like that, y'know?

But he was actually a great guest imo! He had a lot of unique experiences from the show by virtue of his age at the time, and in general sounds like a cool guy! I kinda thought he may have left acting after like having a bad experience on ATLA or something, but he sounds like he just really found a love for cinematography which is cool and good to hear! Like, he seems to still love engaging with the show every once in a while, and like, good for him!

Anyway this "all in your head" thing does seem to be like? Much more in jest than it may seem when reading it, he was kinda just messing around with Dante, and while I STILL disagree with him because Kataang is gross... He was much more chill about it than I thought, can't really blame him for preferring Kataang when he IS Aang lol

I am... Unhappy because when looking at future episodes to check out the guests I can look forward to (some real bangers, btw!) I saw that him and one of the Bryke duo are on Crossroads of Destiny which. Is kind of infuriating that there are two Kataangers on a Zutara episode, but honestly I'm? Kinda less mad about it than I was after listening to his episode, I feel like he might actually have some interesting things to say there since he said he liked the Guru Pathik stuff so! I guess I'll wait and see how I feel about it after reaching it lol. They better acknowledge that it's a Zutara episode though or istg...

I was originally SO mad when I found out about the Crossroads of Destiny guests being anti-Zutara that I typed out a huge rage post which I obviously shelved because it was completely out of proportion and written when I was barely coherent because I was extremely sleepy, it was all kinda funny tbh I was near on delirious writing it but tbf not all of my points there were completely wrong so? This post and a possible follow up in the future will exist in its stead lol

Also!! I do kinda just wanna throw this out there: I hate Aang and Bryke, but I have never had any issue with Zack for voicing him- he did a remarkable job voicing Aang! It's just unfortunate what Bryke did to his character development, and it's interesting to me that he seems to like the Guru Pathik stuff but? If anything I'm actually really interested in his pov, probably much more than I am in hearing Bryke's extremely biased one (they lied SO much over the years about the development process, wtf!! They've proven to be so unreliable, and alongside their shit takes I truly despise hearing them talk on the podcast lol)

[heinzpilsner]

I'm a zutarian megabrain now

Hey guys, do you remember how I said I found the answers to most of my questions in tSR?

Well, just now I finally put my finger on another fascinating problem with zutara in this episode! Yay!

Yes, I've been told I'm a terrifying person, thank you

Spoiler: Aang and Zuko are not so different after all. Surprise?

(It's not such bad news for zutara as a ship though! Just a thing to consider.)

The thing is, there are two separate planes in Zuko and Katara's relationship this episode highlights:

1) The similarity of their values, personalities, mutual gravitation (doesn't matter here romantic or platonic), mr. and mrs. smith synchronicity, etc.;

2) Zuko's bad (yes, bad) feeling of boundaries in his communication with Katara.

(I'm gonna prove it soon enough, don't worry).

And what I state here is that zutara works so well on the basis of point 1 it manages to work even in spite of the highly problematic point 2.

And that's where the potential problems in their relationship lie. Good news though is that Zuko, as well as Aang, can always grow as a person!

Not in a bryke canon though

(Aang can't really do much about his fundamental values and previous experiences though, so here lies Zuko's advantage. Hurray?)

Anyway, to finally prove my words, let's first look at Zuko's wording when he offers their revenge trip to Katara:

"I know who killed your mother and I'm going to help you find him".

What's wrong with this sentence from a purely communicative point of view?

It wasn't just "I know who killed your mother (end of the sentence, waiting for Katara's answer)". And while it may seem as a very minor, harmless thing, in reallity the difference is crucial.

Because it implies two things:

1) Zuko just assumes that finding Yon Rha (for whatever reason) is something what Katara wants. Without asking her first. Although all he knows about the situation right now is that a) Katara's mother was murdered by a Fire Nation soldier and b) Katara is still sad and angry because of it.

2) This trip is something what Zuko himself is definitely interested in though: either because he's desperate to make peace with Katara or because he cares about her (or because of his traumatic projections) - it doesn't really matter. What's important here is that so far he has no way of knowing if Katara wants the same, which applies to both assumptions:

- she wants to face her mother's murderer;

- she wants to make piece with Zuko.

Hence, he doesn't really see the difference between his own desires and Katara's desires, doesn't feel where his boundaries end and Katara's start. In a way, he sees her as a part of himself.

And while it may sound romantic to some weird people, in reality it could be a big problem.

Also, ironically enough, it's the exact same thing people keep roasting poor Aang for!

Meanwhile, on a fundamental level, Zuko's desperate attempt of reconciliation after Katara basically said she isn't really interested ("Well dude, we can make up if you resurrect my mum from the dead!" is not exactly an encouraging message at least in atla universe) is an analogue of Aang's intrusive kiss in the Ember Island Players.

Except... Zuko guessed Katara's true wishes correctly.

Aang didn't.

And it's not the only instance in tSR - Zuko keeps speaking on Katara's behalf in her presence first to Aang ("she needs this, it's about closure"), and then to an assumed murderer of Katara's mother during the episode. And it wouldn't be an okay thing to do even if he were her husband, let alone whatever is the status of their relationship now!

The only reason Katara is okay with this is because her boundaries are ridiculously open for him at this point - she let him in so closely that she also sees him as a part of herself now.

It's not a thing to celebrate though, fellow zutarians: the moment their illusory unity would be broken by the first serious difference would feel like another betrayal for her (Or at least that's what my life experience tells me).

So, basically, Zuko just got lucky in his interactions with Katara in tSR.

He was lucky he understands Katara's pain and values so well.

He was lucky they have a similar moral code.

He was lucky Katara didn't really hate him at this point. He was lucky they work together so well.

He was lucky Katara wasn't competent enough psychologically to realise the problem with his behaviour.

(And he was extremely lucky her mother's murderer had something useful to say. This encounter could have ended much worse for Katara if Yon Rha's story or behavior were different.)

The conclusion: Zuko may be a good partner for Katara personally in the specific interactions, but he wouldn't be an equally good partner in general at this point (at least if we judge him by his communication in tSR only).

I have no way of proving this statement though, because a) I need to rewatch different episodes for this yet and b) the only person Zuko romantically interacts with in canon is Mai, and... Well, let's just say it's a kind of disaster I don't wanna touch with a stick right now, lol.

So... Take it all with a grain of salt, as usual.

Not gonna pretend though - I'm still ridiculously proud of my big stupid zutarian brain, lol.

Like, it's a really interesting discovery if I may say so myself.

Annnnd I'm still ignoring my notifications in case you forgot.