Not The Last Airbender Anymore (NTLAA)
Reader has known of her airbending capabilities for a long time, but her parents forbade her to showcase or practise them. Being an airbender during the 100 year war was as close to a death sentence as one could get. When the Avatar and his friends traveled through her village in the Earth Kingdom, she joined them wanting to learn more about her capabilities and her heritage. Reader helps the team to restore balance and peace, whilst also trying to find her own place in the world and being torn between the Fire Lord and the Avatar.
ZUKO x READER
Where We Began... coming soon
Reader has built a life she loves at the North Pole. As a valued member of Chief Arnook’s council and a gifted healer, she takes pride in serving her people and using her abilities to help those who need her. But more than anything, she enjoys the freedom to make her own choices and decide what she wants her future to look like.
Until the Fire Lord chooses her as his future wife. She is forced to marry a man she has never met. She is forced to leave her beloved home and to care for a nation and its people that she had once considered the enemy.
ONE SHOT
AANG
Just Like Her Father
Between raising two young children and preparing for a third, you and Aang cherish the quiet life you've built in Republic City. Aang believes he had made peace with being the last airbender years ago. Then, during a trip to the park with his family, his six-year-old daughter proves him wrong.
You Said It First
Three months into your relationship with Aang, the two of you have fallen into an easy rhythm. One night, he discovers your adorable habit of talking in your sleep and begins playfully responding whenever you mumble. But when a sleepy confession slips past your lips, Aang is left with a secret that only he remembers.
ZUKO
The Promise Between Us
After receiving an urgent letter from Aang, Zuko and the Reader set out to answer the Avatar's call. But as they make their way, an old promise resurfaces. A promise that forces them to face the impossible choice between love and duty, and the heartbreaking sacrifice that may one day be demanded of them.
Crimson Stain
One stolen kiss before a royal banquet leaves an unexpected mark. As you and Zuko welcome the Nations’ nobility and rulers, curious glances and lingering smiles begin to test your patience, until one quiet whisper reveals exactly what everyone else noticed long before you did.
Confessions Beneath the Stars
What began as a quiet midnight walk became an honest conversation about the burdens Zuko carried as Fire Lord, the impossible expectations he placed upon himself, and your determination to remind him that beneath the crown, he was still simply Zuko.
Summary: What began as a quiet midnight walk became an honest conversation about the burdens Zuko carried as Fire Lord, the impossible expectations he placed upon himself, and your determination to remind him that beneath the crown, he was still simply Zuko.
Warnings: self doubt, worrying, other than that just fluff
A/N: Please note that English is not my first language. So I apologise in advance for any mistakes, I really try to proofread everything. But mistakes do happen. If you see some, I don’t mind if you point them out to me.
Please don’t copy my work. A lot of time and effort went into it.
Word count: 3.904
You had returned from the banquet hours ago. The house had long since grown quiet. But here you were… Eyes still open as sleep refused to find you as your brain was still fully awake. It was replaying the evening over and over; every conversation, every face, and every fleeting glance. With a quiet sigh, you gave up trying.
You slipped from beneath the blankets, crossing the room barefoot. The robe you had discarded earlier still rested over the back of a chair, and you wrapped it loosely around yourself before slowly opening your bedroom door, careful not to disturb anyone else.
You had intended to go to the balcony, watching the city beneath the stars usually helped settle the endless stream of thoughts racing through your mind. Instead, light at the end of the corridor caught your eye, spilling from an open door. It came from Zuko's room. You paused and instead of turning towards the living room, you quietly walked the opposite way until you reached his doorway.
He hadn’t noticed you. A single candle burned on the bedside table, its flame flickering gently as it illuminated the sea of scrolls spread across his bed. It was far more paperwork than anyone should still be reading after midnight and he sat amongst it all, completely absorbed, one hand supporting his forehead as his eyes carefully followed the lines of another document. You watched him for another moment before softly breaking the silence.
“Hi.” His head lifted almost immediately, surprise briefly flashing across his features. But when he saw you, his entire expression softened. The tired lines around his eyes eased, and a genuine smile, the first truly genuine one you had seen from him all evening, appeared almost effortlessly.
“Hey.”
“Can’t sleep either?” His eyes drifted briefly towards the scroll in his hands before he answered.
“Work.” He made it sound so casual. Before you could respond, he looked back at you. “What about you? Why are you still awake?”
“My brain won't shut up.” A small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
“What is it telling you?” You looked at his bed.
“Right now…” Your eyes scanned Zuko’s features. “It is telling me to worry.” His smile disappeared. Concern replaced it so quickly that your chest tightened.
“About what?”
“You.”
“Me?” He shifted uncomfortably. “Why?” You stepped into the room, crossing the distance between you until you reached the edge of his bed.
“Do you ever stop working?”
“I attended the banquet tonight.”
“Yes…” You sat down opposite him, carefully pushing a few scrolls aside. “As the Fire Lord.” Your gaze wandered over the scattered reports before returning to him. “You spent the entire evening speaking with ministers, ambassadors and the Earth King.” You smiled sadly. “Every conversation carried the weight of diplomacy.” Your voice softened. “You barely gave yourself time to catch up with your friends.” His eyes lowered. “I hardly saw you smile and when you did it were merely the polite and diplomatic ones. The smiles you wear because people expect the Fire Lord to smile.” His shoulders sank almost unnoticeably. “Tonight was supposed to be a celebration. Ten years of peace. And yet, somehow… You still spent the entire evening working.” He let out a slow breath through his nose.
“I suppose you are right.”
“You are allowed to loosen up, laugh with your friends, join us for a dance.” He pointed a finger in the air.
“I don’t really dance.” He informed you.
“That is not the point, Zuko.” You sighed. “I am trying to tell you that you work too much. It is not healthy.”
“I am fine, Y/N.” His answer came too quickly, too automatically. His hand instinctively reached for the scroll he had been reading. Before he could touch it again, you quietly lifted it from the bed and placed it out of his reach.
“Are you really?” Your voice softened until it was barely a whisper. “Because every time I see you, I worry a little more.” His gaze was fixed on something beyond you. “Your shoulders get more and more rigid, the circles beneath your eyes become darker, and the light that was once shining in your eyes has been dimmed for a long time.” Only then did he look at you. The sadness you found in his gaze stole your breath for a moment. It was the type of sadness of someone who had carried responsibility for so long that he no longer remembered what life felt like without it. Then, gently, you smiled. “Will you go somewhere with me?” His eyebrows lifted.
“What?” A quiet laugh escaped him. “Now?” He looked outside to the dark sky. “It is after midnight.”
“I know. But neither of us can sleep.”
“I could.” His eyes flicked towards the reports. “I simply haven’t allowed myself the time yet. And going with you is hardly going to help me sleep any sooner.” You tilted your head.
“Come on, Zuko.” Your smile became just a little brighter. “Live a little.” He looked at you for several long moments. You watched the internal debate unfold across his face.
“Where would we be going?”
“Out. Somewhere that is not here.” Finally, he sighed. The sound carried all the resignation of a man who knew he had already lost.
“Fine.” You instantly smiled kindly at him and something inside him warmed simply because of that. Then his eyes travelled over your clothing. “Are you going like that?” You looked down at your robe and nightgown.
“No.” You laughed softly. “I should probably change first.”
“Good.” His hand immediately moved back towards the scroll. “That gives me enough time to finish this report…”
“Oh no.” You caught his wrist before his fingers could reach the parchment. “You absolutely are not.” Before he could protest, you had already pulled him to his feet.
“Y/N…”
“No more work tonight.”
“But you need to change.”
“You can wait outside my room.” He stumbled after you into the corridor, allowing himself to be dragged despite making very little effort to hide his reluctant smile.
“One minute.” You said, stepping inside while deliberately leaving the door slightly ajar, so that you could continue your conversation. “I promise I won't be long.”
“I could still go back to my room.”
“You could.” You walked farther inside towards your wardrobe. “But you won't.” He smiled to himself.
“No… I won’t.” He whispered so softly, that even you didn’t hear him. He kept his eyes strictly to the wall across from him.
“I want to show you somewhere.” His curiosity immediately piqued.
“Where?”
“It is a place I especially go to at night.”
“Why only at night?”
“You will see.” He could hear the smile in your voice. “I go there whenever I can’t sleep.”
“Do you often have trouble sleeping?”
“Sometimes.” The wardrobe door closed and he heard your footsteps approaching. “I am ready.” Only then did he dare to turn around. You now stood dressed in your tunic and trousers, your hair loosely tied back, looking effortlessly beautiful. Somehow even more so than when you wore that elegant dress at the banquet. You smiled and before he could collect his thoughts, your fingers slipped into his hand once more. His pulse jumped. “Come on.”
When you stepped outside, the fresh air filled your lungs. It was the end of summer; the days still clung to their lingering heat, but once the sun disappeared beyond the horizon the nights became wonderfully pleasant.
“Ready?” You smiled at him and he nodded. Without another word, the both of you started your journey to the place you wanted to show him. You walked side by side, your pace unhurried. Every now and then your shoulders brushed, neither of you making any effort to step away. Your hands swung naturally beside you, your fingers occasionally touching. Zuko followed your every step. Whenever you made a turn, you pointed in the direction. After walking in silence for a minute, he glanced down at you.
“Why are you having trouble sleeping?” You smiled faintly.
“I already told you… my brain sometimes won’t shut up.” He frowned ever so slightly, trying to understand.
“What do you mean by that?”
“It just…” You searched for the right words. “It needs time to process everything that happened during the day.” He was quiet for a moment.
“Is that why…” He began thoughtfully. “...you often sat by yourself in the evenings?” You looked up at him, surprised. Whenever the day had been busy, you gave yourself a moment, separate from the group, to enjoy the quiet. But the last time he had seen that, must have been months ago.
“You remember that?”
“Of course.” There was no hesitation in his answer. “During our travels and even now still, you would disappear for a part of the evening.” A small smile touched his lips as he recalled it. “You always found a spot somewhere overlooking the city, the sea or a random field.” His eyes rested on you for a brief moment, before he looked ahead again. “I had always understood you needed the time alone.” He glanced back at you, longer this time. “I just never understood why.” A gentle smile spread across your face.
“Now you do.” You turned down another quiet street, leaving the brighter parts of the city behind. “Whenever I had a busy evening, like tonight with the banquet… my mind keeps replaying everything.” For a while, Zuko didn't answer, instead, he simply nodded. The streets were quiet, the only sounds made were your footsteps and whispers.
“I actually understand better than anyone.” You looked up at him. His gaze remained fixed ahead, his expression thoughtful, almost distant. “Every night, when I finally lie down... I replay every conversation I had that day.” His voice became softer with each sentence, as though speaking the thoughts aloud somehow made them more real. “I analyse every decision, every meeting.” He drew in a slow breath. “I think about what I should have said differently, what expression I should have worn, whether I sounded too firm or not firm enough.” He gave the smallest of shrugs. “I wonder whether I should have listened longer, whether I chose the wrong words.” He laughed quietly under his breath, though there was very little amusement in it. “It is honestly rather exhausting.” You remained silent, allowing him to continue. “I convince myself that if I think about it long enough… then perhaps next time I will get it right.” Another pause. “So that in the future…” His voice dropped almost to a whisper. “...I won't hesitate before answering. So that next time…” He swallowed almost unnoticeably. “...I will already know the right words to say.” The confession lingered between you. It wasn't something the Fire Lord admitted to ministers, to ambassadors and perhaps not even to his closest friends. But here, beneath the lantern-lit streets of Republic City, with no court to impress and no throne separating the two of you, he allowed you to see the weight he carried when no one else was watching. You looked at him quietly. And in that moment, you realised that the heaviest burden Zuko bore was not the crown upon his head. No… It was the impossible expectation he placed upon himself.
For several moments, neither of you spoke. The city seemed to hold its breath alongside you. Somewhere in the distance, water lapped gently against the canal walls. Finally, you broke the silence.
“You know…” You began softly, your eyes remaining on the path ahead. “I don't think anyone expects as much from you as you expect from yourself.” He let out a quiet breath through his nose. You glanced sideways at him.
“I have seen the way you speak to your ministers and how they listen. I know how your friends feel about you…” A small smile touched your lips. “...How I feel about you.” He looked at you. “Nobody expects you to be perfect. I would rather see you be human.” Zuko lowered his gaze.
“That doesn’t always feel like a possibility.” Your heart ached a little at the quiet honesty of the words. The lanterns above you became fewer, their reflections stretching across the canals, until even those gradually disappeared behind rows of quiet buildings. Your shoulders brushed again, but neither of you moved away. The touch was fleeting, barely there, yet neither of you created the distance that would have been so easy to put between you. Somehow, it felt natural to remain close. Zuko drew in a slow breath, his eyes wandering across the quiet streets before lifting briefly towards the stars overhead. “I don't think anyone has ever said that to me before.” His voice was thoughtful and uou looked at him.
“Said what?”
“That I am allowed to be human.” A faint, almost self-conscious smile appeared on his lips. His eyes found yours again. “You are the first person in a long time who has reminded me that it is okay if I am just... me.” Warmth spread quietly through your chest.
“Well, I happen to like 'just you'.” The words escaped before you had fully considered them. For a heartbeat, his footsteps slowed almost unnoticeably. The corners of his mouth softened into a smile so genuine it reached his eyes.
“Thank you.” He said quietly. You smiled back, suddenly finding the path in front of you very interesting. “You have a habit of saying things I didn't realise I needed to hear.” Silence settled between you once more, but this time, it felt lighter. As the two of you rounded another corner, you recognised the familiar path leading towards your destination. A smile crept onto your face.
“So…” You finally broke the comfortable silence. “Will your brain be replaying this conversation when you finally go to bed?”
“Word for word.” You looked at one another for a moment.
“You are an over-analyser.”
“You are an overthinker.” He replied without missing a beat, you smiled. “You think we would be happier if we weren’t?” He asked after a moment, his voice thoughtful, almost distant. You looked at him instead of answering immediately.
“Are you unhappy?”
“I didn’t say that.”
“Then… Are you happy?” This time, he took longer to respond. His eyes remained fixed on the path ahead, the moonlight catching the sharp lines of his profile. The question lingered between you, unanswered, as though he genuinely had to search for it.
“I didn’t say that either.” You followed the path as it curved gently farther away from the city, the houses becoming more scattered with every passing minute.
“So what are you?” He let out a slow breath.
“Neither.” The word came out quietly, almost reluctantly. “I don’t think I have been either for... a long time.” You frowned ever so slightly.
“What does that mean?” He was silent for another moment.
“I suppose…” He shrugged. “I simply exist from one day to the next.” His eyes never left the road. “There is always another meeting, another council or another problem waiting to be solved before I have even finished solving the previous one.” A humourless smile briefly touched his lips. “I keep telling myself that once everything settles down… I will finally have time to breathe.” He let out a slow breath. “But it has been ten years already and I am still waiting.” You watched him in silence, he looked tired.
“You know…” You said softly. “That sounds an awful lot like surviving.” Zuko glanced at you. The words were not harsh. If anything, they were spoken with a gentleness that made them harder to dismiss. His expression shifted slightly, as though he had never considered looking at it that way before.
“I never really thought about it.” A gentle smile found your lips.
“Because your mind is usually already too busy thinking about everything else.” That finally earned a soft laugh from him. You smiled, looking at him. He caught you looking.
“What?” The back of your fingers grazed one another once more, each fleeting touch lingered for just a heartbeat longer than the last.
“Nothing… I just like seeing you smile.” His cheeks turned faintly red. He looked away from you, trying to hide his flustered cheeks. You let him as you fixed your gaze ahead again. Silence settled between you for a brief moment. “You do realise that surviving is not the same as living, Zuko.” He didn't immediately have an answer. He simply looked ahead, his jaw tightening slightly as he considered your words. You could almost see his mind searching through them, analysing them the same way he analysed everything else. He was searching for an argument, searching for a reason why you might be wrong, but he couldn’t find any. The silence stretched for a while, comfortable but heavy. Then you tilted your head slightly, looking at him. “What do you like to do for fun?” The question seemed to catch him completely off guard. He turned towards you, confusion appearing on his face.
“What do you mean?” You smiled softly.
“I mean… Do you have any hobbies?” The word seemed almost foreign to him.
“Hobbies?” A small laugh escaped you.
“Yes… What is something you like to do? Something that can take your mind off things.”
“The Fire Lord doesn’t have time for hobbies.” You sighed softly as you came to a halt. Zuko didn’t notice at first, so he stopped a few steps in front of you.
“No… of course he doesn’t.” Your voice softened. You took one step closer. “But does Zuko?” The mention of his name alone seemed to make something shift in him. His gaze dropped briefly.
“We are one and the same.” You shook your head.
“No, you are not.” His eyes lifted back to yours. “Being Fire Lord is a part of you.” You took another step towards him. “But it is not all of who you are. You are a loving son.” His face softened slightly as he thought of his mother. “A supportive brother.” A faint smile touched your lips as you thought of how Zuko always interacted with Kiyi. “A good nephew.” At that, something close to amusement flickered across his face. “You are a loyal friend.” He looked at you. “And yes…” Your voice became quieter. “You are also a wise ruler and a born leader. Someone who has made a positive impact on the world in ways most people can only dream of.” You lowered your voice even more. “But before all of those things…” You searched his eyes. “...you are just Zuko.” Something in his expression shifted. “You are someone with a kind soul...” You took one final step, to step right in front of him. “...and a gentle heart.” His lips parted slightly, but no words came. He looked at the ground and it almost seemed as though he wanted to argue, to tell you that you were wrong; that he was not as kind as you believed and that he had done things he could never take back. But those words never came. So instead, he looked back up at you.
“I don't know what to say to that.” The honesty of the admission made your expression soften.
“You don’t always need to have the right words.” The irony of that was not lost on him. For someone who spent every night trying to find the perfect answer, you were telling him that perhaps he didn't need one. You let your hand slip into his. For the briefest moment, he looked down, surprise flickering across his features as your fingers found his. Without really realising, his fingers curled around yours. A pleasant warmth spread through his hand as his fingers slowly intertwined with yours. His heartbeat first stumbled and then it quickened. Judging by the sudden flutter in your own chest, yours had done exactly the same. Before he had the chance to notice the warmth rising into your cheeks, you took a small step forwards, gently tugging his hand with you. “We are nearly there.” He smiled to himself and allowed you to lead him. The city was now little more than a constellation of lights in the distance. Ahead, the coastline stretched into darkness, untouched by lanterns or bustling streets. The farther you walked, the cooler the air became, carrying with it the scent of salt and the rhythmic crash of waves against the cliffs below. Eventually, you released his hand. Immediately, he missed its warmth. You hurried a few steps ahead before turning to face him, your arms spreading wide as you spun once beneath the moonlight.
“We are here.” He looked around.
“There is nothing here.” His eyebrow lifted. “We are standing on the cliffs.”
“Yes.” He looked back at you suspiciously, trying to hide a smile.
“You didn't bring me all this way just to push me over the edge, did you?” You pressed a finger thoughtfully against your chin.
“Hmm…” Deliberately, you circled him once as though genuinely considering the possibility. Then your teasing expression softened. “No.” You stopped in front of him. “I rather like having you around.” The words escaped so naturally that neither of you thought about them until after they had been spoken. A quiet silence followed. As his eyes searched yours, something warm settled behind them.
“So…” His voice had become noticeably gentler. “Why are we here?” You took a single step forward, just enough to close the remaining distance between you. You had to tilt your head slightly to meet his eyes. For a heartbeat, neither of you spoke. The waves continued crashing somewhere below and a breeze gently stirred loose strands of his hair. You slowly lifted a finger and pointed towards the sky.
“Look up.” Your voice was little more than a whisper. He followed your finger as he slowly tilted his head back. You did the same. The sky stretched endlessly above the coastline. Without the glow of the city, hundreds upon hundreds of stars revealed themselves, they looked like tiny sparks. For a long moment, neither of you spoke. Then Zuko breathed out quietly.
“Wow…” His expression softened even more. “It is beautiful.” His eyes wandered across the sky, taking in the countless points of light. “There are so many stars.” A smile touched your lips.
“You can only really see them when you are surrounded by darkness.” Your voice gentle as he remained silent. Slowly… His gaze left the stars and it settled on you instead. You hadn’t noticed because your eyes remained fixed upon the constellations above. The moonlight traced the gentle curve of your face, catching in your eyes as you searched the heavens with quiet admiration.
“It really is beautiful.” His voice was softer this time. You smiled, believing he was still speaking about the sky.
“It is proof that even when you are surrounded by darkness…” Your eyes finally drifted from the stars to meet his. “…beauty can still be found.” For a heartbeat, neither of you looked away. “And if that is true…” Your voice softened, becoming little more than a quiet confession. “...then I would like to believe that happiness can still bloom, even in the places where we think nothing could grow.”
I want to ask if you like to use first pov than other pov? Based on most recent fanfics, authors use second or third pov and it gets a bit awkward to read uhh readerself by the character's pov
I do like it. That is why I use it.
Before I even started writing NTLAA, I made a very conscious decision to write it this way. The main reason was that I really wanted to change POV throughout the story so that you can truly get inside another character's head, to really dive into their state of mind and experience what they are feeling and thinking. And I believe that first person POV is the best way to achieve that.
I know it is very different from pretty much all other stories. And if someone is not comfortable with that or finds this way of writing awkward or just doesn't enjoy the way I have chosen to tell the story, then it is probably just not the story for them, and that is okay.
However, most of my one-shots are written in second/third person POV, and I am currently working on another series that is also written that way. So it is not that I exclusively write in first person. With NTLAA, though, I consciously committed to this style from the very beginning, and I personally still really like the choice. But again, if it is not for you or anyone else, that is fine.
Pairing: Fire Lord Zuko x F Reader and Avatar Aang x F Reader
Chapter Prologue: Reader tells Zuko she loves him. That causes him to be unable to hide his smile, but he will have to since the team meets up for their final evening together before they part ways in the morning.
Warnings this chapter: talks of stopping getting pregnant, getting caught, but mostly just fluff
A/N: This is an 18+ story. So MDNI.
Individual lines or words that are in cursive are thoughts unspoken.
Also note that English is not my first language. So I apologise in advance for any mistakes, I really try to proofread everything. But mistakes do happen. If you see some, I don’t mind if you point them out to me.
Please don’t copy my work. A lot of time and effort went into it.
For nearly two weeks, this had become our routine. Every afternoon, just before the palace kitchens stirred with the preparations for dinner, I slipped into Zuko’s study and waited for him to finish the last of his work for the day.
I cherished these moments, simply because I saw the man behind the Fire Lord returning. I was allowed to see him relax the second he closed the door behind him. I always saw how his shoulders loosened, how his features softened when his eyes found me, and how the tension left his whole body. Every afternoon, I witnessed the weight of a nation, if only for a little while, slide from his shoulders. It felt less like he was entering his study, and more like he was coming home. He was Zuko again.
Sometimes we spoke about his day. About council meetings that tested every ounce of his patience, about petitions from distant provinces, about an invitation from the Earth King to attend a diplomatic banquet. Sometimes, Zuko spoke passionately of reforms he hoped to make once the council finally stopped resisting every new idea. Other days we spoke about far simpler things, like what book I was now reading, or if we liked the new tea Iroh had sent to Zuko to try out. We debated whether the koi pond near the west wing had always been that crowded or if the fish had simply multiplied themselves or we discussed which part of the palace offered the best view of the sunset.
The simplicity of those conversations reminded me that beneath the crown he was wearing and beneath the official robes and his title, he was still simply Zuko.
Before the palace bells announced dinner, we always settled the same question. At what time he would come pick me up. Normally, the answer was late. There were always more reports to read, more scrolls to sign and more meetings to prepare for. But not tonight. Almost two weeks ago, I had told him to block out two hours of every work day. And today was the first day his schedule allowed to introduce it. From now on, he would have two hours every day to himself. He could use that time to prepare for his work tomorrow, he could use it to rest, or spend time with his family or me. Today he used these hours to prepare for tomorrow’s meeting, meaning he had a free evening. So when I asked him now when he would come and pick me up. His answer came easily.
“Straight after dinner.” He smiled.
“That means that we can watch the sunset together.”
“Yes. And that is so much better than yet another evening of working late.” The relief in his voice was unmistakable. “Thank you again for your… suggestion.” He shot me a knowing look. I folded my arms as I leaned against the edge of his desk.
“I don’t do suggestions.”
“No.” His lips twisted as he stepped closer. “I have noticed.” His eyes twinkled mischievously. “You order me around. Whether it is here…” His eyes drifted around the study. “Or in the bedroom.” We both laughed.
“And you always listen.” He was now standing in front of me. I wrapped my arms around his neck and he instantly placed his around my waist.
“As Fire Lord, I have learned to always listen to wise counsel.” His expression softened. “As just me…, I know better than to argue with you.”
“Good.” I said as I leaned forward and brushed a quick kiss against his lips. “I rather like the idea of you having free evenings.”
“So do I.”
“And not a moment too soon. Because if you pick me up after dinner, that means we still have some time together before everyone gathers.” His brows knit together for a heartbeat before realisation dawned.
“The others are leaving tomorrow.”
“Exactly.” I nodded. “It is tradition.”
“I know. The night before the team separates, we always spend one last evening together.”
"Precisely."
“I will inform the kitchen staff and servants that we will need lots of good wine and good food.”
“You don’t have to.” I smiled. “I have already done that.” He chuckled as he shook his head faintly and then he kissed me again. When he broke away from me, his expression had shifted into something more nervous.
“Before we leave for dinner…” Zuko began. His voice carried a strange hesitation that immediately caught my attention. “I…” He drew a slow breath. “I have something for you.” He stood up and walked around his desk, opened a drawer and picked up a polished wooden box. It was no larger than the palm of his hand, and the lid was carved with delicate curling flames. He held it carefully, almost nervously.
“A present?” I asked surprised as I sat down. “For me?”
“Well…” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I wouldn't really call it a present.” He placed the box gently on the desk between us.
“Can I open it?”
“Of course.” I lifted the lid. Inside rested dozens of neatly wrapped packets of dried herbs. “It is tea.” He explained.
“Something special from Iroh?”
“Oh… No.” His eyes widened immediately. “No. I-I… I don’t think…” He closed his eyes briefly and let out a quiet sigh. “Uncle doesn’t sell this kind of tea.” That only made me more curious. I closed the lid and then I looked back at him with a smile.
“Why does tea have you stuttering so much?” He suddenly became fascinated by the floor. “Zuko…” I smiled. “What makes this tea so special?”
“It.. uhm…” His cheeks were already turning red. “It…” He swallowed. “It… uhm… stops…” He cleared his throat and he forced himself to stand straighter, as though he was about to address his council. “It stops babies from happening.” For a heartbeat, I simply just stared at him.
“There is a tea for that?”
“There is.” His embarrassment grew until his entire face was flushed. “Now don’t get me wrong…” The words came tumbling out all at once. “I very much would like to make you a mother one day. For us to have a family. But…”
“But now… It is very much too soon.” I gently finished his sentence. His shoulders visibly loosened.
“Yes.” Silence settled between us for a moment, as I quietly enjoyed how endearingly awkward this man can be. He is the Fire Lord, he speaks without hesitation or flinching in front of his council, he has led missions with great conviction, but this conversation turned him into a blushing, stumbling mess. I rested my fingertips on the edge of the wooden box.
“But…, you have always been careful.” I said thoughtfully. “You have pulled out every time.”
“Pulling out very much lowers the risk.” His voice was quieter now. “But it doesn’t remove it completely.” He hesitated again. “And…” I waited for him to continue, his face still a bright crimson. His golden eyes met mine and I nodded; quietly signalling for him to continue. “I-I don’t always want to have to pull out.” The admission was barely above a whisper. “If that makes you uncomfortable, then I will. I promise I will pull out every time.” He quickly added, his breath slightly irregular. His cheeks burned even brighter. A smile escaped me before I could stop it.
“You are very cute when you are nervous.” His expression became adorably offended.
“I am serious though.”
“I know.”
“If you want me to continue pulling out, like I have done, I will.” The sincerity in his voice tightened something in my heart. He wasn’t expecting anything, he was giving me a choice. I reached across the desk and took his hand.
“I know you would.” I gently squeezed his hand. “I have trusted you with this part of me since the beginning.” His shoulders relaxed little by little, the bright crimson on his face was slowly fading away when he drew a slow breath.
“I-I just really want to feel you through all of it.” His admission was hesitantly whispered.
“I have never liked the end.” I confessed before I lost my nerve. His eyes lifted to meet mine. “Every time you pull out…” Now I was feeling a warmth creep onto my own cheeks. “I always feel so empty. I have been wanting to feel you too…” I dared to look up and meet his eyes. “Long after you are done.” He brushed my knuckles with his thumb.
“You have no idea how happy it makes me to hear you say that.”
“Thank you.” My fingers were back on the wooden box. “Thank you for thinking about this. I had no idea something like this existed.” A shy smile appeared. “And although I hope that one day I won’t have to use it anymore…” Something shifted in his expression as I lifted the box. “Until then, I will gladly drink it every morning.” I stood up, carefully carrying the box. He rose as well and walked around the desk to stand in front of me.
“I promise…” He said quietly, stopping close enough that I could feel the warmth radiating from him. “One day in the future, you won’t have to drink it anymore.” I copied his smile.
“We should probably keep it hidden though.”
“That is probably for the best.” He muttered. He took the box from me and tucked it safely back into the drawer where he had hidden it before. I followed him and I was close behind him when he turned around. I took one more step forward until there was only a small space between us. I leaned forward and kissed him. His arms wrapped around me carefully. Then, the palace bells rang, echoing through the halls. It called us down for dinner. And reality returned once more.
“I will meet you after dinner.” I whispered against his lips.
“Straight after.” He whispered after giving me a peck on my lips. Then, he stepped back just slightly. He lifted my hand and pressed a gentle kiss against my knuckles. “You first.” His head nodded toward the door. Reluctantly, I walked away from him. Before I walked out of the room, I glanced back one more time. He was already slipping back into the composed posture expected of the Fire Lord. But when his eyes met mine, the facade slipped. That shy, boyish smile returned onto his face. And that was the man I was in love with. Tonight, beneath the setting sun, I was going to tell him exactly that.
It had been almost two weeks since she had told me, no, ordered me to block out two hours in every working day where nothing was to be scheduled. No meetings, no advisers interrupting me, no audiences. Nothing.
Today had been the first day of that new routine. And Spirits... she had been right. Those two hours had been enough to read every document that would otherwise have been waiting on my desk this evening. I had prepared for tomorrow's council, answered urgent correspondence and reviewed every report that demanded my attention. Now, for the first time in what felt like forever, I wasn’t rushing to do something and my evening actually belonged to me.
At first I had argued against her so-called suggestion. I had insisted that the Fire Nation couldn’t pause because its Fire Lord wished for evenings to himself. She had ignored every one of my excuses. Now I couldn't believe I had fought her on it and that I hadn’t allowed myself to do it earlier.
There was a strange sort of peace in finishing my work before sunset instead of exhausting myself with yet another scroll to read until midnight. Even more importantly, when she had appeared in my study earlier this afternoon and asked what time I could collect her, I hadn't needed to apologise or delay. I had simply smiled before answering her.
‘Straight after dinner.’
I did as I promised. The hidden mechanism groaned softly beneath my palm as I pressed my lit hand against the stone. Like every morning, and every evening, the concealed passage slid open. She was already waiting. The sight of her never failed to lighten everything inside me. The tension and stress of the day always instantly faded as I saw her smile.
“Ready?” I asked her. She didn’t respond in words, she just grabbed my hand that I had reached out without thinking. She laced her fingers through mine just as naturally.
Together we walked through the narrow passage until we reached my chambers. The familiar warmth of the room greeted us, however for the very first time it wasn’t dark when we arrived together. The sun was still shining, although it was already setting.
Before I could ask where she was going, she crossed the room and pushed open the balcony doors. The evening breeze caught her hair immediately.
“You have never been out here.”
“No…” She smiled faintly as she stepped outside. “I haven't.” Normally we stayed hidden inside the room. Standing near the railing meant risking being seen by the guards below or the servants crossing the courtyard. If we were too close to the edge of the balcony and if anyone looked up at the wrong moment…
Instead of lingering by the railing she took a seat on the bench against the wall. I sat beside her without a word. Her gaze already fixed on the horizon where the sun hung low, its light slowly changing.
I had seen many sunsets my entire life. From palace windows, from warships, from my room in Ba Sing Se. Yet somehow the most beautiful ones were always the ones I watched beside her. I stretched out my arm, resting it along the back of the bench. She leaned against me immediately. The movement was so instinctive it made something warm settle quietly inside my chest. Neither of us spoke for a while. The silence was comfortable and peaceful, as it always has been. The palace around us seemed impossibly far away. My responsibilities, anyone’s expectations, my crown that I placed on the low table; none of them mattered for now, not while the last rays of sunlight bathed the balcony in its light.
I felt her fingers brush against mine, as though they were asking permission. I turned my hand over and intertwined our fingers without taking my eyes from the horizon. I enjoyed the quiet surrounding us as I watched the colors change into hints of pink, orange, crimson and gold. For a long moment, neither of us had moved.
But then I noticed she wasn’t watching the sunset anymore, she was watching me. I glanced sideways at her. She was smiling. That smile… ‘Spirits.’ She could dismantle every wall I had spent years building without even realising she was doing it. I couldn’t help smiling back before returning my gaze to the horizon.
Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed her smile falter. A faint blush crept into her cheeks, and she caught her lower lip between her teeth. She suddenly seemed nervous for some reason. She looked away as though she couldn't bear to meet my eyes anymore. I didn't understand what had changed, but I recognised the uncertainty in her movements. So instead of asking, I kept my attention on the sky, pretending not to notice. If she needed a moment, I would give it to her. Almost immediately, I felt her relax against my shoulder. Only then did I steal another glance. She was staring down at our joined hands, her thumb traced restless circles over my knuckles before she let go altogether. Both hands settled in her lap, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her robes. She was thinking far too hard about something. Before I could ask what was troubling her, she drew in a slow, careful breath. She moved slightly away from me and she raised her hand hesitantly, her fingertips rested on my cheek. Then, with impossible gentleness, they brushed lightly over the burn that scarred the left side of my face. It had always felt strange for someone to touch it, not many people ever had. Her palm rested against my cheek, warm and steady, before gently turning my face towards hers.
“Zuko.” There was such softness in her eyes that made it impossible to look away.
"Hmmm?" I looked at her. She hesitated. For a heartbeat, I thought she had changed her mind.
“I…” Her voice disappeared almost as soon as it had begun. A nervous laugh escaped her. “I have something to tell you.”
“Okay.” I turned my body to face her completely. “Good news or bad news?” She let out another small laugh.
“Why would you assume it is bad news?”
“I don’t know. You are very nervous for some reason. And people usually say they have something to tell me right before they deliver bad news.” I shrugged. “It actually happened earlier today. My Chamberlain told me he had something to tell me and then informed me there has been a spike in thefts in one of the northern villages.” I let out a quiet sigh. “And we haven't yet been able to identify and find the people responsible.” Concern flickered across her face.
“Do you want to talk about that?” I shook my head.
“No.” My hand found hers again and I squeezed it gently. “No, I would much rather hear what you wanted to tell me.” The concern faded, replaced by another shy smile. Her cute smile made my heart flutter instantly. Sometimes I still felt like that awkward sixteen year old boy when I was around her. She was looking only at me, like the world around her didn’t exist anymore.
"I wanted to tell you..." She whispered. Her voice faltered as she looked down to her lap, shaking her head ever so slightly, almost embarrassed by herself. “I have been trying to work out how to say it all evening.”
“Whatever it is… You don't have to be nervous.”
“I know.” She gave me a hesitant smile. “But somehow that doesn't stop me from being nervous.” She drew another deep breath. Her fingers tightened around mine. “I just…” Her eyes searched mine, vulnerable and uncertain. “I love you.”
Everything stopped around me. The world stopped turning, the wind stopped blowing, the birds stopped chirping, my heart stopped beating, my lungs stopped breathing. It all stopped because of three little words. Yet, they hit me with more force than any bolt of lightning ever could. I stared at her, unable to move or speak for a moment; not because I didn’t already know she loved me, but because hearing her say the words aloud somehow felt entirely different. Her smile wavered, suddenly uncertain.
“I-I just wanted you to…” She was never able to finish that sentence. I cupped her cheek with one hand, while the other hand still held hers as I leaned forwards and kissed her. The kiss was soft, tender and impossibly gentle, as though the kiss was telling her my response. When I finally drew back, I rested my forehead against hers for a moment before I moved back, just enough so I could look in her eyes.
“I love you too.” The words came effortlessly, probably because I have loved her for so many years. Her eyes shimmered and then she smiled.
“You know I have loved you for a long time.” She whispered. “But… I wanted you to hear me say it. You deserve that.”
“So do you…” I looked deep in her eyes, unable to control the smile tugging at my lips for any longer. “So, let me say it again…” My smile widened as much as it could as I cradled her face between my hands. “Every part of me, loves every piece of you.” I kissed her once more. When we finally pulled apart, the smile was still spread across my face. “How am I supposed to spend the evening with our friends after this?” I laughed quietly as she tilted her head. “There is no chance I will be able to hide this smile.” Her laughter joined me. “You really should have planned this better.”
“Oh, don’t blame me for this.” She stood, taking a few light steps away before glancing back over her shoulder. The last light of the setting sun caught her playful smile. “I can’t help that I love you.”
We were almost at the end of the secret passage. Zuko’s fingers were laced with mine. Ever so often he gently squeezed my hand as we walked. I glanced sideways. The flame hovering above his palm projected enough light for me to see his face clearly and catch the smile that refused to leave. I sighed quietly, despite being amused by it.
“You really need to stop smiling.”
“I can’t.” His answer came so quick it made me laugh. “You can’t tell a man that you love him and then expect him to hide how happy he is.” He shook his head, still smiling. “It is an impossible task.”
“I never thought I would say this, but…” I looked up at him, amusement flickering in my eyes. “I need the Fire Lord to return. I need his restraint and control.”
“You can’t. The Fire Lord is off duty.” He looked entirely too pleased with himself. “Thanks to you, I might add.” His hand slipped away from mine. “Tonight, you are stuck with… this. “ With his free hand he gestured vaguely at himself.
“And do you think this…” I made the same gesture toward him as he just did. “...is capable of behaving with even half the composure of the Fire Lord?”
“I am afraid not.” His grin only widened. “Because I feel like climbing onto the palace walls and announcing to the entire capital that you love me.” I couldn’t help the chuckle that escaped me.
“You better stay away from the wine then.”
“I make no promises.” He gave me a teasing look. “Like I said, you should have planned this better.”
We stopped at the end of the passage. He placed his hand over the mechanism and let fire escape his palm. As always, deep within the wall, the ancient gears groaned to life. Slowly, almost reluctantly, the heavy stone slid aside, revealing a narrow opening beyond. But then, I caught sight of something through the small space; someone was standing there. At first, I could only make out the silhouette with arms folded. Zuko stopped beside me, his expression changing the moment he realised what I was looking at. The door continued to slide open until she came in complete view. Toph stood directly in front of us. She had clearly been waiting.
“Toph!” Her name escaped both of us in unison. She smirked.
“I have been waiting for you both.” I immediately glanced down the corridor, searching for any sign that someone else might have witnessed your arrival. “Relax, Ballerina. Everyone else is already downstairs.”
“How long have you known?” I quietly asked her and Toph snorted.
“Seriously?” It almost sounded as though I offended her. “You do remember who you are talking to, right?” She tapped her feet on the ground. “I have felt the stone in this wall move every evening and every morning, like clockwork. I have felt you escape your room and slip back in.” She pointed at me. “I have felt both of your footsteps sneak through these corridors for well over a week.” A smug grin spread across her face. “And don’t get me started on your heartbeats.” She laughed. “Every time one of you walked into a room, they sped up. Especially whenever one of you turned to face the other. Like it wasn’t even funny.” She wrinkled her nose. “You two are incredibly annoying.” She let the words linger for a moment, before softly continuing. “But… also kind of cute.” Neither of us expected to hear those words from Toph. “So to answer your question…” She shrugged. “I figured out you were finally together pretty much the moment it happened.” Her grin turned into a knowing look. “But I have known about your feelings for each other since forever.” She gestured dramatically with her arms.
My mind drifted back to the day Aang and I had arrived in Cranefish Town. Upon arrival, Toph had mentioned that I was eager to come back and help my boyfriend. And that was not the first time she had teased me with it.
“What I just don't understand is why you are keeping it a secret.” Top asked, as she tilted her head. “Is it because of Aang?”
“Yes.” I quietly whispered.
“But he knows.” She stated casually. I frowned.
“How do you know that?” I asked her in disbelief. Again she carried that almost offended look on her face.
“I already told you. I feel everything.” She tapped her foot on the floor again. For the first time since she caught us, the smugness disappeared from her face. “I felt his heartbeat whenever he faced to look at you both.” Her voice grew quieter. “It always skipped a beat.” That made me sad and I swallowed the knot forming in my throat. “So who else knows?”
“Sokka and you apparently.” Zuko said. “And I suppose Azula.”
“So Katara and Suki don't know?” Toph asked.
“The rest of my family doesn’t know either.” Zuko added. “And the rest of the palace.”
“And we like to keep it that way, Toph.” I told her quietly.
“Hey…” She raised both her hands in surrender. “I won't tell.” The smirk returned to her face. “I just wanted you to know, I knew.” Then almost casually, she continued. “I even saved you guys one night.” Zuko and I exchanged a quick glance before looking back at her.
“What do you mean?” I questioned as Toph leaned back against the wall.
“I didn’t know, Sokka knew. If I did, then I wouldn’t have needed to do what I did… But I couldn't sleep so I sat in my room and I felt Sokka get out of his bed. Guess he couldn't sleep either. You were here waiting on Zuko.” She gestured toward me again. “He walked towards his door, but before he could reach it, I made him stumble.” I blinked.
“You… what?”
“Just a little bump in the floor under the rug. Nothing serious.” She shrugged. “He thought he slipped.” Zuko snorted out a laugh.
“You earthbended him onto his face?”
“My earthbending bought you about ten seconds.” She grinned. “He had absolutely no idea what happened.” She pressed her lip together, clearly fighting a grin. “It was a funny sight.” Then she nodded toward the hidden passage behind us. “Anyway… It gave you enough time to disappear in there.” She folded her arms again, looking far too pleased with herself. “You are welcome…” For a moment, neither of us spoke. Then, Zuko pinched the bridge of his nose.
“I can’t decide whether I should thank you… or apologise to Sokka.” Toph grinned.
“I would go with thanking me.”
“Thank you, Toph.” I said as a quiet laugh escaped me. She nodded and pushed herself off the wall and started walking toward the staircase.
“Come on.” She gestured with her arm to follow her. “The others are waiting.” For a heartbeat she stopped and slightly turned her body. “And Zuko…”
“Yeah?”
“Try not to stare at her all night.”
“I won’t.”
“And hide that smile.” I couldn’t help laughing, he looked adorably offended, but he didn’t defend himself. Toph only shook her head.
“Hopeless… The both of you.” She quietly muttered to herself, but we heard it anyway.
I was already in the grand hall. The servants had transformed one corner into a relaxed seating area. Big, plushy cushions scattered across the floor. Trays of food laid out on the tables, several carafes filled with all sorts of drinks. Sokka, Suki and Katara were already here. We were waiting for the others to arrive. The doors opened and Zuko, Y/N and Toph stepped inside together. Sokka was right beside Zuko in an instant. He immediately hooked an arm around Zuko and steered him away from the girls.
“Evening, Fire Lord.”
“No. No Fire Lord.” Zuko pointed to his topknot, no headpiece visible. “Off duty tonight.”
“Good.” Sokka gloated. “That means we can have some fun.” He padded his hand on Zuko’s chest. Y/N and Toph were already laughing about something between them.
“Evening all.” Y/N said as she lowered herself onto one of the big cushions. Her eyes found Katara first. There was something softer there than there had been in weeks. Then, she looked at me and smiled. The kind of smile that reached her eyes and I smiled back without thinking.
Zuko returned with a carafe of wine, like he had appointed himself the server of the evening.
“Does anyone need a refill?” He asked. Suki held out her glass immediately.
“Absolutely.” He poured for her. Then, he returned back to the table where he got the carafe from and poured three glasses full. He walked over with one of them and squatted down next to Toph, holding the glass out for her to accept. Then, he walked back to grab the other two glasses from the table. He came to stand behind Y/N. When he leaned over her shoulder and almost mindlessly offered her one, she took it. There was no eye contact between the two of them. But when she took the glass from his hands, their fingers touched. It all looked very innocent, but the smile on Zuko’s face gave it away. He sat down a little too casually afterward, as if nothing happened. Sokka meanwhile, had already decided this was his night.
“You know what…” He announced as he leaned back in his cushion. We all looked at him. “Since this is our last evening together, I think it is only right that we remember one of Team Avatar’s greatest adventures.” Katara sighed.
“This should be good.” She muttered sarcastically.
“It is…” He simply said. “Because I saved everyone’s lives.”
“You did not.” Katara replied immediately.
“I did.”
“You absolutely did not.” Sokka ignored her. He cleared his throat.
“It all began when we found ourselves surrounded by a dozen very angry bounty hunters.”
“There were six.” Toph interrupted.
“They felt like twelve.” His tone of voice slightly higher.
“There were still just six.”
“Details, Toph.” He took a sip from his glass before continuing. “They had us cornered against a cliff. And there was no way out.” His arms joined in on the conversation, gesturing every now and then.
“There was literally a bridge.” Aang stated flatly. Sokka waved dismissively. Suki covered her smile with her hand.
“So, there we were, doom staring us in the face.”
“I think you are very much exaggerating this, Sokka.” Sokka immediately looked at Zuko, and then he pointed at him.
“And where were you?” Zuko raised an eyebrow.
“I wasn’t even traveling with you yet.”
“Exactly. So you don’t know if I am exaggerating.”
“You usually are.” Y/N took a little dig at him, before she took another sip. He shot her a mean look.
“Get to the part where you hit yourself with your own boomerang.” Toph laughingly stated.
“I hit a tree!”
“You hit yourself."
“It ricocheted.” Sokka explained. We all laughed. Sokka looked around the circle in disbelief. “I cannot believe none of you remember this story correctly.”
“We remember it perfectly.” Katara said.
“Well the important part is that, despite that all the odds were staked against us…” He places a hand on his chest. “I remained calm.”
“You were screaming.” Toph wrapped her arms around her stomach as she laughed.
“I was yelling tactical instructions.” He lifted his cup. “Well, you still all survived.”
The bickering between him, Katara and Toph continued. Suki just observed the whole thing.
Across the table from me, Zuko leaned slightly closer to Y/N. He whispered something I couldn’t hear. Something nobody was supposed to hear, the words were for her ears only. Y/N covered her mount, laughing softly. And then she looked at him, really looked. And he looked back. It lasted no longer than a few heartbeats. But something passed between them. I knew it before I put it into words. She had told him. There was no other explanation. Tonight, she told him she loved him. Just like she had promised she would. Just like I had encouraged her to. There was no mistaking it now… Every few moments, their eyes found each other again and Zuko would smile before he even realised he was doing it. Then, he would quickly look away from her, pretending to listen to the stories around him. But the smile would never quite disappear.
“What are you two giggling about?” Suki asked as Sokka had finally surrendered under Katara’s and Toph’s relentless corrections to his story. Every conversation around the table seemed to pause. Zuko nearly choked on his drink. He coughed, almost spilling the wine on his robes. Y/N looked suspiciously innocent. Katara’s eyes drifted from one to the other, slowly realising something.
“Oh.” She said quietly. Suki raised an eyebrow.
“Oh, what?” Suki looked at Katara. Y/N quickly took a sip of wine, but she was unable to hide her smile fast enough. Both Toph and Sokka were suspiciously quiet.
Across the table, Zuko’s eyes found mine; there was an apology visible in them. I held his gaze and a faint smile tugged at my lips as I gave him a little nod. The tension left his shoulders almost instantly and relief softened every feature of his face. He gave me the smallest smile in return and I returned the gesture. He looked at Y/N for a heartbeat, before his eyes met mine again. I inclined my head once more and nodded toward her. I gave him permission. The whole exchange between us only took a few seconds. Zuko looked back at Y/N. She was unaware of the silent conversation that had just transpired between me and Zuko as she was carefully avoiding looking at him.
Then, very slowly and almost timidly, Zuko reached across the space between them. His fingers brushed over the back of her hand. She stiffened instantly as she looked up at him. This time, he didn’t look away. Instead, he just smiled. For the first time all evening, he made no attempt to hide what he felt. She glanced at me. Just like before, I also nodded at her. She smiled as she looked back at Zuko. She turned her hand around and let his fingers intertwine with hers. Then he gently lifted their joined hands. He bowed his head just enough for his lips to brush against her knuckles. Her smile widened as a blush spread across her cheeks. She looked at him as though he was her entire world.
Katara’s hand flew to her mouth and Suki gasped. Both Sokka and Toph just had a contented smile on their faces. I also couldn’t help the smile tugging at my lips due to the tenderness of the moment.
“So that is why you are staying?” Katara asked, without needing an answer. Suki turned to look at Sokka’s smug face.
“You knew?!” She lightly shoved his shoulder. Sokka held up both hands defensively.
“I was sworn to secrecy!”
“I can’t believe you didn’t tell me.” Suki was trying very hard to sound offended.
“I wanted to.” He paused. “I was very excited about this. But I couldn’t.” He gave her a kiss to make up for it. Zuko gave a small, embarrassed cough, he was still holding her hand.
“We didn’t mean to keep this a secret for too long. We eventually would have written to you.”
“Oh please…” Toph interrupted. “In the end, you two have been fooling exactly nobody.” A ripple of laughter spread through the group. Sokka looked around the group, taking in Zuko’s hopeless smile. He leaned back with a dramatic sigh.
“Well…” Everyone looked at him, he raised his glass toward Zuko. “It only took you about eight years, buddy.” Zuko groaned.
“I am going to ban you from the palace.”
“You can try…” He said with a teasing grin on your face. “But I think love will make you soft.” Toph snorted.
“You are one to talk!”
“And what would you know about that?” Toph didn’t miss a beat.
“I can feel your heartbeat speeding up every time Suki laughs at your jokes.” Sokka froze, while Suki nearly dropped her cup laughing. Katara covered her face, hiding her grin. Zuko laughed under his breath, while Y/N let out a soft giggle. I leaned back in my cushion, smiling to myself. We were too loud, too chaotic and very much us again.
Sorry, did you get my message about Sokka? I use Tumblr via my browser rather than the app, and sometimes my messages don’t reach the authors. If you’ve already received it, just ignore this message!
Yes, I have received it! And I love writing angst!!!!! So I will see what I can do, whilst also trying to honour Sokka's character and personality. It will probably take some time before I will be able to write it, since I have other projects to write first. So I hope you will be patient with me 😬💛
Main storyline: Reader has built a life she loves at the North Pole. As a valued member of Chief Arnook’s council and a gifted healer, she takes pride in serving her people and using her abilities to help those who need her. But more than anything, she enjoys the freedom to make her own choices and decide what she wants her future to look like.
Until the Fire Lord chooses her as his future wife. Suddenly, the life she has built is no longer hers to decide. She is forced to marry a man she has never met, a man she knows only through stories, reports, and the reputation that precedes him. A man who belongs to the very nation that once attacked hers. She is forced to leave her beloved home and to care for a nation and its people that she had once considered the enemy.
Warnings: arranged marriage, being trapped in a life you don't want, jealously, mourning, minor character deaths.
Pairing: Fire Lord Zuko x F Reader and Avatar Aang x F Reader
Chapter Prologue: Zuko and Reader spend their second night together. About a week later the team is set to leave the Fire Nation Palace and return to Cranefish Town. Reader has one more talk with Aang and finally has a conversation with Katara.
Warnings this chapter: explicit smut, f*ngering, oral s*x (f receiving) unprotected s*x, p in v s*x, arguing, guilt, heart break
A/N: This is an 18+ story. So MDNI.
Individual lines or words that are in cursive are thoughts unspoken.
Also note that English is not my first language. So I apologise in advance for any mistakes, I really try to proofread everything. But mistakes do happen. If you see some, I don’t mind if you point them out to me.
Please don’t copy my work. A lot of time and effort went into it.
As promised, he came. The palace had long gone quiet and all our friends and Zuko’s family had retired for the evening.
Then I heard it; a soft scrape of stone against stone. I looked towards the wall. Earlier in his study, Zuko had told me where the opening would be, at what time he would come for me and where I could wait for him. The wall shifted almost imperceptibly and a narrow opening appeared. He stepped through it and his eyes scanned the corridor. No guards in sight, as expected. The door instantly closed behind him; it hid itself again, leaving no trace that it had ever existed. I quietly stepped out of the shadows where I had been waiting.
“There you are.” He smiled shyly at me as he closed the distance between us and he offered me his hand. I eagerly accepted it. His thumb brushed across the back of my hand before he turned toward the wall. “Come on.” His free hand reached for a lantern. He rotated it slowly, revealing the mechanism. Zuko rested his palm against the engraved metal disc and a faint orange glow spread beneath his skin as controlled heat flowed into the ancient device. For a heartbeat, nothing happened. But then, somewhere deep inside the walls, gears started moving before the wall slowly retreated, revealing a narrow passage hidden inside the palace itself.
He led me inside. The air changed immediately; it was cooler beneath the palace. With a small movement of his fingers, Zuko summoned a flame into his free hand. The flame lit the way, its glow dancing across the narrow corridor as we walked. Neither of us spoke; there was no need to. But anticipation grew with each step. His hand never left mine and every few steps, his thumb absentmindedly traced circles over my knuckles, as though he wasn’t even aware he was doing it. I smiled to myself every time I left his thumb brush against my skin. He had always been far more affectionate than he seemed willing to admit.
The passage curved gently before opening onto another concealed doorway. Without releasing my hand, he placed his free palm against a second hidden mechanism. Once again, warmth spread beneath his skin. The ancient lock answered him as stone glided soundlessly aside. This time it revealed his bedroom. The hidden entrance lay beside the right-hand side of his bed. The side, he had confessed with a surprising seriousness, was his side. The thought still made me smile. We stepped inside together and behind us, the wall quietly slid back into place. The soft click of the mechanism echoed through the room before silence settled once more. Only then did he stop walking, but he still hadn't let go of my hand. For a long moment, neither of us spoke. We simply stood there, looking at one another. Moonlight peaked through the curtains and it softened the sharp lines of his face. Loose strands of hair had escaped his topknot. His golden eyes searched mine with a mixture of certainty and disbelief, as though some part of him still couldn't quite believe I had chosen him.
I moved closer and my hand reached up. One hand rested on his golden headpiece, the other on the pin securing it. I pulled out the pin and lifted the ornament from his head.
“So…” I whispered. “Now you are just Zuko again.” He tenderly smiled. I turned around and placed the headpiece on the same low table he had placed it on last night. Without really noticing it, he had moved to follow me. When I turned around, he was already there. I bumped against his strong broad chest. It was warm and solid beneath my palms. For a heartbeat neither of us moved.
“I have thought about you all day.” His voice was barely above a whisper. His breath was already hitched. “I have thought about you during every meeting.” He scanned my face and his eyes were darkening gradually. “I have thought about this throughout the entire dinner.”
“Is that why you barely looked at me?”
“I was afraid that if I did…” His fingers found my chin and this thumb brushed over my lower lips, dragging it slightly down. “I wouldn’t have been able to hide all that I want to do to you.” He tilted my head back, just enough so more of my neck was exposed. “I spent the whole day imagining this...” His head moved down; his lips hovering over my skin and his hot breath fanning my skin. My own breath caught instinctively, something twisted in my stomach. “What I would do to you the moment I got you to myself again.” His lips finally made contact with my skin. His hands fell to my hips. The heats of his palms radiating through the fabric of my tunic and robes. He was creating an upward trail. By the time his lips reached my jaw, his hands on my hips gripped tighter and he pulled my flush against him. My heart fluttered.
“And what is that?” I whispered between breaths. At first, he was too invested to continue the trail of kisses he was creating. His hand moved up, cupping my breast through the fabric. Then, he looked up, his golden eyes seemed to be burning.
“Let me show you.” He whispered. He was following his own hands as they reached for my belt. He easily unclipped it. Then, they moved up as he grabbed the edges of my robes and pushed them over my shoulders. His fingers glided down to the hem of my tunic. He wanted to lift it up but I stopped him.
“Kiss me first.” His eyes back on me. I didn’t have to ask twice, he eagerly leaned forward and his lips found mine with a tenderness that lasted only a heartbeat before all the restraint he had carried throughout the day melted away. He was hungry, like he couldn’t wait to do all the things he wanted to do to me.
I too had been thinking about him all day; about the way he looked that morning, about how passionately he had kissed me before we shared a reluctant goodbye, about the promise that tomorrow, we wouldn't have to rush. Now, with his arms around me once more, it finally felt as though time wasn’t our enemy.
I pushed back against his chest, I wasn’t going to let him have the upperhand. He didn’t stand his ground, he let me push him toward the wall behind. It was now my turn to undo him off his belt and sash. He moved his shoulders just enough away from the wall as I glided his robes down. Our lips still connected, tongues occasionally fighting for dominance. His hands reached for the hem of my tunic again. This time I didn’t stop him as he lifted the fabric, my arms reached up. He broke the kiss so that the tunic could slip over my head. He threw it on the floor. Both of us were catching our breaths. Then, without warning his hands were on the back of my thighs and he lifted me up, turning us around so my back was now against the wall as I wrapped my legs around his hips. It was now my body that was trapped between him and the cold stone behind me. His lips instantly found my breast and he licked over my nipple, it immediately hardened. He sucked at the swell of my breast. I let out a whimpered moan. His hands weren’t staying in the same place for long, they were roaming every inch of my bare upper body, before they settled on my ass cheeks. The same can be said about his lips. It felt like his lips had grazed every inch of my skin, before they were back on mine.
I had let him do what he wanted to. Simply because I wanted it, but now I wanted some control back. So I rolled my hips hard against his. He moaned into my mouth. My own heat throbbing at the friction. My fingers slipped into his hair. Tugging it ever so slightly as I rolled against him once more. I felt his length twitch against my core. I loved to feel what I was doing to him, so I grinded against him again and I didn’t stop until he turned around and with a frustrated groan he laid me on the bed.
“Spirits...” He lowered his body onto me and breathed the word against my lips. “Are you really so needy?” My arm reached down. Placing my hand over his long, hardened erection. I put a bit more pressure on it and I felt it twitch involuntarily through the fabric. Zuko groaned against my skin.
“It seems I am not the only one.” He didn’t protest. Instead, he sat up and pulled his tunic over his head. I watched him closely. I looked at the muscular lines over his chest and abdomen. He pulled off his boots and then he hooked his fingers under the waistband of his trousers. My gaze lowered from his chest to where at any moment now his erection would spring free. I licked my lips and bit my lower lip in anticipation. I heard him chuckle and my eyes snapped back to meet his. He tilted his head, licking his own lips. It was as though he was contemplating whether or not to continue undressing.
“You better not stop now.” He smiled and a second later he bent down. Trousers at his feet, kicking them away. “Good.” I cooed. “Now do me.” I lifted one leg. It didn’t take long before my shoes, trousers and panties were abandoned somewhere on the floor.
He turned around and grabbed a ribbon from a table. He gathered all his hair together into a bun and tightly secured all of it with the ribbon. He did it with more care than he had the previous night. Watching him create the knot, aroused me. I watched him carefully and I couldn’t help but bite my lower lip again.
When he stood back at the edge of the bed, I expected him to crawl over me again, but instead he fell to his knees and he grabbed the back of thighs and he pulled me close to the edge of the bed. I gasped by the suddenness of it all. He threw my legs over his shoulder as his lips made contact with my inner thighs. I gripped the sheets in one of my hands. I looked at him, his eyes meeting mine before he looked directly into my already wet core. Seeing a man like Zuko drop to his knees like that… That alone could have made me cum.
“You have no idea what a beautiful sight this is.” His lips kept hovering over it, his hot breath fanning over it. The anticipation was killing me. I slightly moved my hips up, just enough for him to get the message. His lips made contact with my clit. First his tongue moved over it and then he sucked on it. His fingers moved between my folds. Every sensation earned him a sound from me. One finger went in first, pumping it in and out. He curled it slightly, already knowing exactly where my sensitive spot was hidden.
"Argh… Zuko.” I breathed out his name as my head shot up. His eyes met mine, his lips still sucking my clit. His big, strong hand was pinning my hips down.
“You are soaking wet.” He said as his lips parted from my clit and as he pumped a second finger in me.
“I know.” My breath hitched as he placed more kisses on my inner thighs and worked his fingers more quickly in and out of me, reaching deeper. “What are you going to do about it?” He gasped against my skin as the question surprised him.
“Fuck… Everything.” When he pulled them out completely, I was aching from the sudden loss of contact.
“Prove it.”
“Glady.” His mouth made contact with my core. He licked me up and down before his tongue slipped in me. I wanted to roll my hips at the sudden sensation of his tongue in me, but Zuko’s hand prevented my hips from moving. So instead my back arched and I squeezed my eyes shut as I let out another moan. His nose created more friction as it brushed over my clit. I felt every muscle in my body tense up.
“Zuko… I… I.” Words failed me as I was completely lost in his tongue moving inside me and his nose rubbing against my clit. My head pushed hard down into the mattress, his silk sheets tightly held between my fingers. I clenched my walls together. It wouldn’t be much longer before I reached my climax. Zuko withdrew for a moment, just long enough to speak.
“Look at me.” I had to use every bit of strength to lift my head, I met his gaze. “Keep looking at me.” His tongue moved between my walls, nose rubbing against me. Our eyes remained locked while I was whimpering out sounds. My wall clenched again and then I felt my release approaching. My legs tensed up, slightly squeezing his head. That earned me a hum from him, which vibrated through me. My lips parted, my breathing rapid and irregular. A shiver ran through me and anticipation coiled low in my stomach before it released. I moaned loud as my orgasm washed over me. I had to break eye contact as my head crashed into the mattress. Zuko didn’t move away. He kept dragging his tongue through me, catching every drop of me with his tongue.
When he was sure he had caught it all, he moved up from his knees. He had a satisfied expression on his face. His face was glistening as his nose, mouth and chin were coated with my slickness. He bent over, his hands resting on either side of me. I crawled backwards until my legs were resting on his bed, giving him the opportunity to cover my whole body with his. His chest rested against mine, his legs slightly propped up between mine.
“You taste amazing.” He whispered as he looked directly into my eyes. I reached my hand up, gripping his jaw and I gently pulled his face down. When he was hovering over me I gave a singular lick over the skin near his mouth. I tasted bitterness and saltiness. The bitterness was mine, the saltiness was Zuko’s sweat. He smiled down at me and then he kissed me.
A moment later, I flipped our bodies over so I could pin him down between my thighs. Zuko was a strong man, he could have easily stopped me from turning us over, but he let me. He was looking very pleased at the sight of me on top of him. His hands brushed over my thighs. I ran my own hands over his chest and then my fingers brushed over the lines of his toned muscles of his lower abdomen. The farther my fingertips trailed down, the more his breath hitched. His eyes darted between my eyes and my fingers. I looked down to where our body touched, just above my core laid his length. Long and hard. The tip swollen, pre-cum leaking from it. Zuko’s breath caught the second my fingers made contact with him. I stroked it a few times, slowly moving my hands up and down his shaft. His eyes rolled to the back of his head as he hit the mattress hard. He bit his lip, trying to contain any and all sounds. But the moment my thumb swiped over his tip, he let out a loud moan and his eyes shot open. I smiled contentedly. I moved a bit higher as I repositioned myself so my core would align with his length. I propped myself up, just enough so that his tip brushed over every sensitive part of my core. I guided it toward my entrance. I looked at Zuko, who looked like he could barely keep it together. I teasingly moved his shaft once more up and down my folds, just to see his reaction. He bucked his hips ever so slightly, almost losing his restraint. His eyes met mine.
“Please…” It was barely audible. I bit my lower lip to see how undone he was. I lowered myself, letting his tip slwowly slide into me. I gave myself time to adjust before I sunk farther down. When my core made contact with his hips, he was buried so deep inside me that I could feel his tip kissing my cervix.
“Ah… You are so deep in me.” I whimpered at the sensation. His eyes were hungry, I knew he wanted me to move. But restraint and care won.
“Are you okay?” He asked softly as his hands moved up and down my thighs. The gesture so gentle. I nodded.
“I am.” And with that I started rolling my hips. First slowly, making sure I felt every sensation inside me; I felt him twitch, I felt him swell even more, I felt every vein throbbing against my tight walls. After my walls adjusted to him more, I sped up. The sway of my hips became more intense. His fingers dug into the skin of my thighs. I wouldn’t be surprised if bruises would be visible the next morning. I looked at the dark spots on his collarbone, marks made my me the night before. They clearly stood out against his lighter skin.
My hands left his chest, one of them rose to cup my own breast, kneading it between my fingers. His darkened eyes on me. My other hand was on its way to my clit. But before I could reach it, Zuko moved. Without warning he pushed his own hips up. I gasped at the sudden impact. He propped himself up, his chest now flush against mine. His arms secured tightly around my waist. One of my hands moved to the nape of his neck, my fingers already tangled with the loose strands of hair. My other hand moved to his shoulder blades. He buried his head in the crook of my neck, sucking at the skin. Then, he dipped lower, sucking the sensitive skin around my nipple, all the while still thrusting in me. I let my head fall back, eyes shut as I couldn’t stop sounds escaping me.
“It is my job to touch you.” He said between breaths. “It is my job to pleasure you.” Each of his motions were so deep, each thrust moved over my sensitive spot, it didn’t take long before I felt that familiar feeling again. I scratched my nails on his shoulder. He hissed in response but it only seemed to spur him on even more. The thrusts became quicker and somehow even deeper. My breasts were bouncing along with the rhythm of each thrust.
“Ah. Zuko. Please. Don’t. Stop!” My words interrupted each time he pumped into me. Then my whole body started trembling, my head fell onto his shoulder as I moaned loudly against his skin. I felt my own cum dripping over his length. He let me ride it out for as long as he could, whilst my walls clamped around him. Then his hand settled on my hips, quickly lifting me from his erection. Then a moment later he moaned as thick white strands of cum left him and landed on his abdomen as his hand moved up and down his shaft.
He was panting heavily, we both were. He looked at me, a very pleased smile on his face, then he let his body fall flat on the mattress and I joined him. His chest was rising and falling quickly. I brushed a strand of hair from his face, damp with sweat. Then I moved my fingers to his scarred cheek. The skin rougher than any other inch of his body. I slowly swiped my thumb from left to right, then I turned his head so he was facing me. With the little energy I still had left in my body, I propped up and kissed his lips. It was a sweet, soft and tender kiss, the contrast was big compared to everything that happened before it. He smiled against my lips, which earned him another peck.
“I am going to clean myself up.” He muttered against my lips and he rolled away from me. “I will be right back.” In the meantime, I gathered the sheets around me, pulling them beneath my chin before sinking back into the pillows. The moment my head touched the mattress, exhaustion washed over me. Every muscle in my body relaxed and my eyelids grew heavier with each passing heartbeat.
When he came back he stood at the edge of the bed for a moment. “You are lying on my side.” The words were spoken with such quiet seriousness that I couldn't help smiling. I answered with nothing more than a sleepy hum. My heavy eyelids were struggling to remain open. “Just this once…” The corners of his mouth lifted. The mattress dipped beneath his weight as he climbed onto the bed and he lowered his body. A quiet chuckle escaped him. “I will let you get away with it.” His voice was warm with amusement, carrying the kind of affectionate resignation that told me he wasn’t nearly as bothered as he pretended to be. He slipped beneath the covers before wrapping an arm around my waist, drawing me gently against him. Without thinking, I nestled closer and my head found its place against his chest. His heartbeat was slow and steady beneath my ear and his warmth radiated onto me. I instinctively melted into his embrace, unable to stop the sleepy smile tugging at my lips.
"Remember..., tomorrow is my free day.” He murmured quietly. “So we can sleep for as long as we want and you don’t have to leave before dawn.” His fingers traced slow circles against my side. “We have the whole day to ourselves.” A contented sigh escaped me. And as I closed my eyes to drift into a sweet slumber, I was already picturing the morning. Waking up with sunlight spilling through the curtains instead of darkness. Feeling the warmth of his arms still around me. Opening my eyes to find him still beside me. Lying on his chest as we would speak about anything and everything. Stealing kisses between those conversations. No reluctant goodbyes before the palace woke up. Doing everything we had done this evening all over again.
“That sounds wonderful.” I whispered.
“It does.” His voice was beginning to soften with sleep. A comfortable silence settled over us. I was listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat as he continued to brush his fingers over my skin. Then he spoke again. “Goodnight, dearest.” He murmured. There it was once more… It was the second time he called me that, yet hearing it in the quiet darkness, spoken so gently and so naturally, made something inside me soften. I smiled against his chest. In response, his arms tightened ever so slightly around me.
Two weeks had passed since we returned the taken children to their parents. We spent these weeks enjoying some time off. We enjoyed the luxury of staying at the palace and our time here passed quicker than I had expected.
In the meantime, I had seen the stolen glances between Zuko and Y/N, the little smiles, the knowing looks, the fact that for some time she had slipped from her bedroom at night and that Zuko had come to pick her up and that he escorted her back in the morning. The first time I felt her leaving was almost a week ago. I had no idea for how long it had been going on, but I could guess. I remembered the conversation I had with Zuko when he apologised for not preparing for our meeting. Telling me he was tired and therefore went to bed early. Maybe he had been tired, but that was definitely not the reason he stopped working early… She was. Then, he proceeded to say how he had one of the best sleeps in a long time. Sure he had… He had her in his arms throughout the night. Although the thought of them in his bed hurt, it hurt more that he hadn’t just been more truthful. But would I have told him plainly if the roles were reversed? Perhaps... Perhaps not.
Tomorrow morning we would leave the palace again. I had packed my bag earlier today. Most of the others also had packed what little we had brought.
Sokka had found his way to the kitchen, probably trying to convince the staff to let him take enough food for the journey. Most likely wanting to bring a big stack of honeyflame pancakes. Katara had disappeared to the stables to make sure Appa would be ready at dawn. Toph was probably making some guards question their career choices. Suki had remained in her room, packing.
I had slipped away. I wandered the corridors without any real destination. I looked at the art on the wall. Servants bowed politely and I returned each greeting with a smile. The guards straightened as I walked by.
When I reached the library, I slowed my steps. The doors stood open, revealing one of the quietest places in the entire capital. It stretched over two floors, lined with towering shelves carved from dark wood. Each shelf packed with scrolls and books collected over generations of Fire Lords. Tall windows let the sun spill across the polished wooden floors. I looked through the room and I saw her.
Y/N stood on one of the rolling ladders, reaching for a book tucked high on the shelf. One hand steadied her against the ladder, while the other stretched toward the spine of a book, but it was just beyond her reach. Her attention was entirely on the shelf above her, unaware of me for another moment.
“Do you need help?” She looked down, startled for only a heartbeat before her expression softened.
“Aang.” She smiled at me.
“I am taller than you.” I said, folding my arms in front of me as I leaned against the doorframe. She shot me an amused look before rising onto her toes and grabbed the book.
“No need.” She held it up triumphantly. “I got it.” I laughed as she climbed gracefully back down, tucking the book beneath her arm. I pushed myself away from the doorway and started walking toward her.
“I am guessing you are staying?”
“I am.” There wasn’t a trace of uncertainty in her voice. The realisation of leaving her behind and not seeing her everyday was strange. We had spent every day together for almost seven months. We worked hard on restoring the Air Temples. We cooked, laughed, argued and laid together; she was the one constant over that time. But tomorrow, I would leave and she would stay. I let out a slow breath before offering a small smile.
“Thank you.”
“For what?”
“For being somewhat subtle.” A faint laugh escaped her. “To be fair… You have been better at it than Zuko.”
“We tried.”
“I know.”
“Sokka knows.”
“I know that too.” She looked up, surprise flickered across her face for a brief moment. “He came to talk to me.” I explained.
“Of course he did.” A fond smile tugged at her lips. “I sometimes wonder… whether he realises he is the glue between all of us?” I couldn’t help but laugh.
“Please don't ever tell him that. He will be far too pleased with himself.” That earned another laugh from both of us, the sound echoing softly between the towering shelves. When it died down, I looked at her. “Does he make you happy?” The question came out quieter than I had intended. She didn’t reply immediately, instead, a smile tugged at her lips before words could come out. The smile softened every feature of her face.
“He does.” She looked down for a moment, almost shy. “He really does.” A faint blush colored her cheeks as she thought of him. “I really love him.” Something inside me tightened. She had never spoken about me like that nor had she ever smiled like that when she thought about me. Her words were painful, but I swallowed the ache before it could reach my face. Instead, I smiled, because she deserved that much from me.
“I am glad.” I meant it. I wanted her to be happy, even if another part of me wished those words hadn’t quite hurt so much. “Have you told him that?” She hesitantly bit her lower lip as she looked at me with those beautiful eyes. Then, she quietly shook her head.
“No.”
“Tell him.” I smiled at her. “He will be beside himself.” Without thinking, I reached out and brought my hand to her cheek. It was almost an instinctive movement, my hand had done it countless of times. My thumb caressed her cheek and for a moment neither of us moved. But then I realised what I was doing. My heart lurched and I pulled my hand away immediately, letting it fall to my side. “I…” Heat crept up the back of my neck and I quietly cleared my throat. “Sorry.” Her expression never changed. There was no discomfort, there was only kindness in her eyes.
“You don’t have to apologise.”
“I do.” My eyes darted to the floor, before meeting her eyes again. “Old habits…”
“They die hard.”
“Yes.” She stayed quiet for a moment. She lowered her eyes to the book in her hands, her fingertips tracing the worn lettering on its cover. She was fidgeting. She always did that when she was nervous.
“Do you really think I should tell Zuko?” Her voice barely above a whisper.
“I do.”
“But he already knows how I feel about him. Same as I know he loves me.”
“I don’t think he has any doubts about what you feel for him. But hearing it… that is different.” She looked back down to the book.
“I don’t know why I am suddenly all nervous just thinking about it.”
“Because it matters.” I smiled at her. “It will matter to him too.” She returned the smile and then silence settled between us. I looked around the room and I could picture her here months from now. Curled up beside one of the windows with a book balanced on her knees. Some she would read simply because she loved stories, while others because she wanted to understand the nation she had chosen to stay in. It suited her.
“Aang?” Her voice brought me back to look at her. “Can I ask you something?”
“Of course.” She hesitated before she looked straight at me.
“Are you… really okay?” I stiffened for a moment. I hadn't expected this question. I looked down at the floor before lifting my eyes again.
“I will be.” It was the truest answer I could give. She swallowed in response. I could see a flash of guilt across her face. “Don’t worry about me.” My voice was gentle but she still looked unconvinced. “It has only been two weeks.” I gave a small shrug. “Some things need more time to heal.” I confessed. Without a word, she reached for my hand. Her fingers slipped around mine and there was a comfortable silence lingering between us.
‘Maybe it is okay that I lost you in this life. Maybe this wasn’t the one where we were meant to stay together.’ I thought to myself. ‘Maybe in the lifetime after this, we would get another chance. And I hope that in that lifetime, I will find you first and never let you go.’ The soft brush of her thumb over the back of my hand, drew me back to the library. I smiled at her, I looked at our intertwined hands and I squeezed hers lightly.
“I wish nothing but the best for you.” My eyes met hers again. “I will always want to see you happy. And if he makes you smile like that…” I gestured toward her face. “Then I am grateful you found each other.” That made her smile return widely again.
“I think…” She said quietly. “I think I will tell him tonight.”
“You should.” I nodded. “But for now… How about one last sparring session with me before I leave you?” She smiled teasingly at me and she lifted her eyebrows.
“You want me to kick your ass again.” I laughed freely.
“Not this time.” I winked as I turned towards the door. “Today…” I glanced back over my shoulder. “...it is my turn to kick yours.” With a gesture of my arm, I beckoned her to follow me. “Come on.”
I stayed behind on the training grounds after Aang left. Our sparring session had ended some time ago, and while I wouldn’t say that he kicked my ass, he had beaten me more times than I had managed to beat him. He walked away victorious, while I stayed behind to train some more.
I had always hated losing. It didn’t matter whether that was a sparring session or a game of Pai Sho. So right now, I was making sure I corrected the mistakes I made earlier. Another blast of air exploded from my palms making the nearest training dummy shudder beneath the force before splintering apart. Fragments of wood scattered across the courtyard. My feet barely touched the stone as I moved. I was turning, spinning, twisting. I was basically dancing around the courtyard. Each movement followed my gusts of wind.
From the corner of my eye, I caught movement. Katara. She stopped for a moment in the shadow of the archway before making her way toward the benches. We hadn’t really spoken since Cranefish Town. Sure we had exchanged words, pleasantries, goodmornings and goodnights, the occasional question over dinner. But we hadn’t really talked.
My movements slowed until I stopped moving all together, the wind around me faded. Katara sat on the nearest bench beside the towel and glass of water a servant had thoughtfully left for me. I walked over and stopped in front of her.
“Katara.” My way of greeting her as I picked up the glass and gulped it down.
“Have you already packed?” She spoke as I sat down next to her. I wiped the sweat from my forehead away with the towel.
“No. I am staying.”
“You are staying?” Her eyebrows drew together. “Why?”
“Because Zuko invited me to stay.” I folded the towel between my hands. “But mostly because I want to.” I looked out across the empty courtyard.
“So you are not coming back with us to Cranefish Town?”
“No, I am not.” She looked at the ground, a sadness washing over her.
“Is it because of what happened?”
“No.”
“I thought you and Aang had worked things out.”
“We have.”
“But?”
“Nothing. We are alright.” I looked out across the courtyard instead of at her. “But that doesn’t mean we are getting back together or that I am following him back to Cranefish Town or an Air Temple.”
“Why not?” She asked quietly. “He loves you. I know he does.” The confession hurt her.
“I…” I stared at the towel in my hands, trying to find the right words. “Whatever Aang and I had… it is a closed chapter. And I have forgiven him for everything that has happened. I will always care for him. But we are just friends again.” The courtyard fell silent for a moment. She drew a deep breath.
“And we?” She looked at me nervously as she spoke quietly. “Are we still friends?” The question twisted something inside me. I closed my eyes for a second.
“I don’t know, Katara.” I felt frustration brewing deep inside me. “You never apologised. You have never apologised for what you did. Not to me at least.” The words were quiet, but they hurt me a lot. She was my friend, but she hadn’t treated me like one. I looked at her, but she was avoiding my gaze.
“I know.” Guilt spread across her face almost instantly. “Since we got back to the palace, I kept telling myself every morning that this was the day I would. But the more time passed, the harder it was to bring it up and say the words.” She looked at me, our eyes finally meeting. “But I am sorry. I am truly sorry for what I put you through.” The words were spoken quietly, but they were real. “For what I put Aang through.” Her gaze drifted back to the courtyard in front of us. “I was scared. I thought…” Her voice cracked slightly. “I thought if I disappoint him somewhere along the line… If I couldn’t give him what he wanted…” She shook her head. “I couldn’t bear to even think about that.” She let out a deep breath as though the honesty of the words released something deep within her. “And sending him to you was just an easy way out... It was cowardly.” She laughed bitterly. “But I had convinced myself that I was actually helping him. I told myself I was sacrificing my own happiness for his.” Her gaze dropped to the floor as she whispered her confessions. “But really… I was protecting myself.” The honesty caught me off guard for a moment. “And by doing so, I hurt him… And used you.” The words hung in the air. “I have made such a mess of everything.” Her voice laced with regret. She rubbed at the corner of one eye before a tear could fall.
“That you have.” I didn’t soften the answer. “I can’t pretend that what happened didn’t hurt. Because it did.” I tried to keep my voice calm, but frustration was again building up within me. “You know what hurt the most?” She looked up. “You involved me without a second thought for my feelings. You dragged me, your friend, into something without even thinking about what it could cost me.” She lowered her head, unable to look at me, eyes locked on the floor. “It was as though our friendship meant nothing to you.”
“No, Y/N…”
“No.” I shook my head and I rose to my feet. She instinctively looked up at me as I came to stand in front of her. “You don’t get to interrupt this.” She fell silent immediately. “You know what... I was happy.” My voice cracked ever so slightly. “I was genuinely happy with him.” I thought about Aang. “Your plan, that neither of us wanted to be a part of, brought us happiness.” I let out a humorless laugh. “And then it nearly destroyed us.” I met her eyes. “Our bond, our friendship, the trust between us.” She was holding back her tears. “That was your doing.” She flinched. “And it took you this long to come and see me. This long for you to come and apologise.” Her shoulders trembled.
“I know.” The words barely rose above a whisper. “I know I don’t deserve your forgiveness.” She wiped a tear away with the back of her hand, only for fresh ones to replace it. “Like I said…, I kept telling myself every morning I would talk to you. And every evening I hated myself because I hadn’t.” She closed her eyes for a moment. “But it was hard.”
“Doing the right thing usually is. But that doesn’t mean it is not worth doing.” She nodded, unable to defend herself. “Because the alternative is that you would lose me as a friend.” Her head lifted to finally look at me again. “Is that what you want?”
“No.” Her response came quick, there was no hesitation. “I was selfish and scared. And because of that…” Her voice broke completely. “I did something that could make me lose you.” Silence settled between us. This time, I let it. For once, I wasn’t going to be the one to fill it. She deserved to sit in it. “I know I can’t change what I did. Believe me…” She looked at me with reddened eyes. “If I could, I would.” She drew a shaky breath. “I am so sorry. I wish I could go back in time and be braver instead.”
“Do you really think that Aang would have been disappointed in you, or even condemned you, if you couldn’t give him what he wanted?” I shook my head slightly. The anger that had risen in me was slowly fading. “Katara… What he wanted most was you.” I saw another tear fall. “You risked everything you had, because you didn’t trust him enough. You didn’t trust that his love for you would be enough.”
“I understand that now.” She said quietly. “I have regretted my decision ever since the day it happened.” For a moment, she just stared at the stone floor beneath her feet. “That was why I was so angry the day you returned and Aang and I spoke. I had hoped he wouldn’t have gone through with what I had told him to do. I had hoped he would have come back and tell me I was an idiot. That he didn’t want anyone else but me.” Her voice cracked again. “But instead he told me that you two had found each other.” She swallowed. “Something snapped. I was so hurt.”
“He told me he never intended for anything to happen between us. He planned to come back to you.” Her eyes closed.
“But something did happen.”
“Yes, it did.” I studied her for a moment before asking the question that had been lingering in my mind since Cranefish Town. “Do you still love him?” Her head snapped up at me.
“Very much so. I never stopped.” She looked at me, regret rose across every feature of her face. “And that only made what I did, hurt even more… I broke not only his heart, but also my own.” She lowered her gaze again. She looked defeated.
I looked back on my time with Aang with great fondness, even despite everything that happened. It somehow didn’t spoil what we have had anymore. Those months and all the memories and experiences were still precious. I cared deeply for him and I once cared deeply for Katara. The thought settled heavily in my chest and suddenly, everything about this situation made me sad. No one would have blamed me if I walked away from Katara. But whenever I imagined a future without her in it… Something inside me resisted. I didn't want to lose her. I drew a slow breath before I spoke again.
“I can’t promise that everything will go back to how it was.” She looked up at me and a flicker of uncertainty crossed her face. I searched for the right words. “There are some things we can't undo.” My voice was quiet. “Some wounds take a long time to heal.” I paused. “But…” I hesitated for a moment. “I don’t want to keep carrying this around anymore.” Her expression shifted. Her confusion turned into something close to hope. “I forgive you.” Her eyes widened.
“You… What?” Her voice barely worked.
“I forgive you.” The hope in her eyes grew brighter. The words felt lighter the second they left me. Not because everything was suddenly better, because it definitely wasn't. But because I was finally choosing to put the weight down. “I am doing this as much for myself as I am for you. Maybe, I do it even more for myself.” I held her gaze. “So don’t expect that everything is suddenly okay between us again. Too much has happened and rebuilding trust...” I smiled sadly. “...takes time.”
“Thank you, Y/N.” Her voice trembled, but she didn’t look away from me. “I know I haven’t earned your forgiveness.” A tear rolled down her cheek. “But thank you anyway.” She swallowed hard. “I will work hard to earn your trust again.” There wasn’t a trace of hesitation in her voice. I believed her. She was willing to do the work. I nodded faintly at her words.
“So will I.” For the first time since Cranefish Town, the silence between us wasn’t suffocating anymore. Then, Katara slowly rose from the bench, smoothing the creases from her skirt.
“You will visit?” A smile found its way onto my face.
“Of course.” She awkwardly held out her hand, as though she wasn’t quite sure what was appropriate anymore. I looked at it for a moment and then I quietly let out a soft laugh and shook my head.
“No.” She blinked. Instead of shaking it, I opened my arms. “Come here.” Relief washed across her face. She stepped into my embrace without another word. Her arms wrapped tightly around me and mine around her. It wasn't a long hug, nor did it erase everything that had happened, but it was a beginning.
“I have missed you.” She whispered the words in my ear. I didn’t know if we would ever be the same as we once were, but we could start over. Build that trust again that there once had been without question. From now on, the focus would be on the future and not on what happened in the past. When she pulled away, there were fresh tears in her eyes. There were none in mine. I had cried enough over this.
Good morning/afternoon/evening (depending on your time zone)! I was wondering – do you write about Sokka? I can only see works featuring Aang and Zuko on your blog, but you haven’t actually said that you only write about them, so I thought I’d check.
Hi! 💛
That is actually a really good question! I haven't written purely for Sokka yet, but that is definitely not because I don't love him. Quite the opposite actually.
But, hot take, I think he is one of the most complex characters. His growth throughout the series is incredible, but it is often very subtle (and sometimes not so subtle). But a lot of his development happens in ways that are easy to overlook, which is exactly why I think he is such a difficult character to get right and do justice to his personality. It is very easy to reduce him to just the funny guy, when there is so much more to him than that.
That is probably the main reason I haven't written for just him yet. I always want the characters to feel like themselves, and Sokka is one of those characters I would want to get right.
That said... the fact that you are asking me to write for him makes me wonder if you think I could pull it off.
So I would genuinely love to hear your idea! What kind of story or scenario did you have in mind?
Love, Cathy
Summary: One stolen kiss before a royal banquet leaves an unexpected mark. As you and Zuko welcome the Nations’ nobility and rulers, curious glances and lingering smiles begin to test your patience, until one quiet whisper reveals exactly what everyone else noticed long before you did.
Warnings: jealousy, other than that just fluff
A/N: Memories are written in cursive. Moreover, individual lines or words that are in cursive are thoughts unspoken.
Please note that English is not my first language. So I apologise in advance for any mistakes, I really try to proofread everything. But mistakes do happen. If you see some, I don’t mind if you point them out to me.
Please don’t copy my work. A lot of time and effort went into it.
Word count: 2.946
I hardly ever wore make-up. Most days I couldn't be bothered with it, preferring to leave my face bare as I wandered the palace gardens or buried myself in paperwork. The only occasions I ever allowed the palace ladies to fuss over me were official gatherings; banquets, ceremonies and diplomatic receptions where every detail of the Fire Lord and Fire Lady's appearance became part of the spectacle.
Tonight had been one of those evenings. The Fire Lord and Fire Lady were hosting their annual banquet for nobility, ambassadors and rulers from every corner of the world. It was one of the grandest occasions of the year, where the palace glittered with its finest silks, the kitchens prepared feasts, and every eye would inevitably settle upon the throne.
Such occasions called for every ounce of royal splendour. My lips had been painted a rich crimson, whilst my eyes were framed with black kohl, a delicate line of shimmering gold tracing just above it. It lent my gaze a regal elegance that matched the gold thread embroidered throughout my gown. My hair had been swept into an elaborate style beneath the Fire Lady's crown. Even my dress had been made especially for the occasion, a breathtaking creation of black, crimson and gold that flowed gracefully with every step.
Just before we entered the Great Hall, I had stolen one last kiss. It had only been meant to be a quick one. We had already been running late. The guards stationed beside the towering doors politely averted their eyes as I had reached for the front of Zuko's ceremonial robes and gently tugged him back towards me. He let out the softest hum, before smiling against my lips. His hand settled instinctively at the small of my back, drawing me closer as though he had no intention of resisting.
“Just one more.” He murmured as he kissed me again. It had become two and then three. “We really have to go in.” He whispered against my lips. Neither of us moved away. I kept my eyes closed, breathing him in, his forehead resting against mine. The familiar scent of cedarwood clung to his robes. I just wanted to stay in the moment a little longer. Eventually, Zuko brushed the tip of his nose lightly against mine before reluctantly stepping back. I opened my eyes as he turned towards the guards, every inch the composed Fire Lord once more, and gave a subtle nod. The enormous palace doors swung open.
“His Majesty, Fire Lord Zuko, and Her Majesty, Fire Lady Y/N.” The announcement rang throughout the hall, conversations fading almost instantly beneath its echo. Music continued softly as we walked side by side towards our thrones. Once we reached the dais, we stopped before our seats. Standing shoulder to shoulder, we welcomed the procession of nobles, diplomats, rulers and distinguished guests who had travelled from every nation to attend. One by one, the guests approached us. A line soon stretched halfway across the hall. Each bowed with impeccable etiquette, hands folded respectfully before them.
“Your Majesties.”
“Fire Lord.”
“Fire Lady.”
Zuko greeted every guest with the same composed warmth he had spent years perfecting. He was calm, respectful and measured. He carried himself with a confidence that looked entirely effortless. Only I knew it wasn't. Behind closed doors, after the ceremonial robes had been discarded, the crown had been set aside and the palace corridors had grown quiet, he would sometimes let himself breathe. He would speak of the doubts that lingered at the edges of his mind, of the impossible standards he still held himself to, and of his quiet fear that he would never quite be enough. Yet he never allowed even the smallest crack to show before his people. Standing beside him now, no one would ever suspect the worries he carried with him. I mirrored his composed smile with ease and soon the procession settled into a familiar rhythm: a bow, a greeting, a smile, then the next guest.
After a while… Something felt… Off. At first, I couldn't quite put my finger on it. Guests occasionally lingered for a fraction too long after offering their greetings. Not everyone, but enough for the pattern to become impossible to ignore. A decorated general bowed before Zuko before straightening, only to hesitate for an oddly long moment. His wife offered the expected smile, yet her eyes flickered across Zuko's face before darting briefly towards me. A minister did exactly the same, followed by an elderly noble couple who exchanged an almost unnoticeable glance as they stepped away. Then three young noblewomen approached together. Their cheeks colored almost immediately upon seeing him. I resisted the urge to sigh. Unfortunately, it was hardly unusual. Zuko was an undeniably handsome man. Tall and broad-shouldered, he possessed the kind of quiet strength that drew attention without him ever seeking it. Years of swordsmanship and firebending had sculpted his frame, the definition of his muscles still unmistakable beneath layers of embroidered ceremonial robes. Black, crimson and gold suited him infuriatingly well, lending him an effortless regal air that only seemed to grow stronger with each passing year. The crown resting atop his neatly tied hair completed the picture, every inch of him looking every bit the Fire Lord. Even after all this time, there were still moments when I found myself simply... looking at him. He always looked far too attractive whenever he wore his ceremonial robes.
I had accepted long ago that nearly half the unmarried women in the Fire Nation seemed incapable of looking at him normally. And actually… Most of the married ones weren't much better. The first young woman greeted us.
“Your Majesties.” She bowed gracefully before lifting her head; her gaze lingered and the corner of her lips twitched. Then her eyes flickered towards me before returning to Zuko once more before quickly lowering her eyes again, as though suppressing something. Only then did she finally move on. The second did exactly the same. By the third… My smile had become just a fraction tighter.
‘What… is it with these looks?’ I thought. ‘Are his robes creased? Is there soot on his face? Has his hair come loose?’ I discreetly glanced towards him. ‘No… He looks… Perfect.’ He always did. His topknot hadn't shifted in the slightest. Every strand of dark hair remained exactly where it belonged. His robes sat flawlessly across his shoulders, not a single fold out of place, every ornament and fastening precisely arranged. Nothing seemed remotely out of place. Yet the women kept looking; some smiled to themselves, some looked positively delighted, while others seemed almost… Utterly disappointed. My brows knit together in confusion.
It certainly wasn't the first time I had caught women admiring my husband… Far from it… I let out a quiet sigh as the memories of other banquets surfaced before I could stop it.
I had spent nearly the entire evening watching beautiful women invent increasingly ridiculous reasons to speak to the Fire Lord. One had complimented the palace gardens, despite never having set a single foot in them. Another had asked about trade routes she quite obviously knew nothing about, but she hung onto every word Zuko said as though he were revealing the greatest military strategy ever conceived. And another had laughed far too enthusiastically at something that hadn't been remotely amusing. None of it had escaped my notice.
By the time we had returned to our chambers, I had been unusually quiet. Zuko noticed almost immediately. He had begun removing the heavy outer layers of his ceremonial robes before glancing over at me.
‘What is it?’
‘Nothing.’ I responded too quickly and he gave me a look accompanied with a knowing smile.
‘It isn't.’ He countered as I busied myself removing my earrings.
‘Really it is nothing.’ I carefully placed the earring upon my vanity before reaching for the other. ‘It is silly.’
‘I will be the judge of that.’ I sighed.
‘They were flirting with you.’ The words were quieter than I had intended. He blinked once.
‘Who?’ I turned to stare at him.
‘Who?’
‘Yes.’
‘All of them.’ He frowned in genuine confusion.
‘All of them?’
‘Don't pretend you didn't notice.’
‘I genuinely didn't.’ I folded my arms.
‘You didn't notice Lady Bari touching your arm every time she laughed?’ His brows knitted together as he searched his memory.
‘I honestly don't remember.’ His expression remained completely sincere, not the slightest hint of teasing. Not even a little.
‘Oh.’ For a brief moment there was silence between us as we looked at each other. The smallest, most infuriatingly amused smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
‘Were you jealous?’ Heat immediately flooded my cheeks.
‘No.’ He arched his brow.
‘You absolutely were.’
‘I wasn't.’
‘Y/N.’ His mouth twitched and I let out a dramatic sigh.
‘Fine…’ I threw my hands up in surrender. ‘Yes. I was jealous.’ I narrowed my eyes at him. ‘Are you now happy?’ He laughed. Not a quiet chuckle, no, a proper laugh. It was warm and rich, filling our chambers until even I found myself fighting the urge to smile. But I didn’t want to give him that satisfaction, so instead, I settled for glaring at him. ‘This isn't funny.’
‘It is a little.’ Still smiling, he slowly crossed the room towards me. He stopped when there was barely any space between us. ‘I also think…’ He murmured. His voice had dropped low enough that it sent an entirely different kind of warmth through me. ‘...it is incredibly sexy.’ I was taken aback by his admission.
‘You find me being jealous attractive?’
‘I do.’ His smile softened, all traces of teasing melting into something infinitely more tender. His fingers slipped between mine, intertwining our hands with practised ease. ‘And for the record… You have absolutely nothing to worry about.’ His smile softened. ‘I don't see them.’ He gently squeezed my hand. ‘Any of them.’
‘They were practically throwing themselves at you.’
‘I genuinely couldn't tell you what any of them looked like.’ I searched his face. He wasn't teasing anymore, he meant every word. His thumb brushed across my knuckles. ‘I spend an entire evening looking for you.’ His voice had become quiet, his golden eyes never left mine. ‘I don't spend it looking for anyone else.’ My heart melted. Every lingering insecurity I had carried throughout the evening quietly dissolved beneath the sincerity in his eyes. He reached up, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear before leaning down to press a lingering kiss against my forehead.
‘So…’ He murmured with a small smile. ‘...am I forgiven?’ I pretended to consider it.
‘Hm…’ His expression became adorably expectant. ‘I suppose…’ I slipped my free hand around the back of his neck. ‘...I will have to think about it.’
‘And how long do you imagine that will take?’
‘All night.’ I whispered and then he had leaned down. His lips found mine; the kiss began gently but I quickly answered by deepening it. His hand settled instinctively at my waist, drawing me closer until there wasn't the slightest space left between us.
After that evening, I noticed subtle changes. If a noblewoman attempted to prolong a conversation, Zuko would politely excuse himself before it became anything more. If someone reached to touch his sleeve or rested a hand upon his forearm, he would take the smallest step backwards, almost absentmindedly avoiding the contact. He never embarrassed anyone, nor did he ever appear cold. He remained perfectly courteous, perfectly professional, but there was never room for misunderstanding. And on top of that… Even in the busiest, most crowded rooms, his attention always found me again. A glance across the hall, a fleeting smile meant only for me, his hand brushing mine whenever our paths crossed. Little reminders that, no matter who surrounded us… I was the one he was looking for.
Which was precisely why the current situation irritated me. He hadn't encouraged anyone; not a single lingering conversation, not a single misplaced smile, not a single gesture that could possibly be mistaken for anything more than courtesy. And yet… The looks continued.
Another woman smiled far too brightly, while the wife of one of the politicians covered her mouth as though suppressing a laugh and someone else glanced at me before quickly looking away. ‘What, in the name of the Spirits, is the matter with all these people?’
The Chamberlain appeared soundlessly behind us. Years of palace service had taught the elderly man how to become almost invisible. He moved soundlessly, slipping between us from behind without disturbing the steady procession of arriving guests. To anyone watching, he was simply another servant carrying out his duties. Still wearing the same pleasant, unreadable smile, he inclined his head ever so slightly so that only we could hear his words.
“Your Majesties.” Neither of us turned. “Forgive the interruption.”
“What is it?” Zuko asked beneath his breath, his welcoming smile never wavering as another noble bowed before us. The Chamberlain cleared his throat delicately.
“My Lord…” A tiny pause. “Her Majesty appears to have left rather unmistakable evidence of her affection.” I frowned.
“What?” The Chamberlain's smile remained impeccably polite.
“There is…” He whispered with admirable professionalism. “... a noticeable mark of red lipstick at the corner of Your Majesty's mouth.” Instinctively, I searched his face. I still couldn't see anything. The lipstick must be on the opposite corner of his mouth, hidden from where I stood. Zuko's hand immediately flew towards his face. The Chamberlain politely cleared his throat again.
“If I may advise against that, Your Majesty.” Zuko froze. “You may only succeed in smearing it farther.” His hand stopped midair before slowly lowering again. For one impossible heartbeat… Neither of us moved. To me, everything clicked into place; the lingering glances, the smiles, the suppressed laughter, the disappointed expressions. The women hadn't been admiring him at all. They had been staring at the unmistakable crimson imprint of my lips sitting proudly in the corner of the Fire Lord's mouth. Heat rushed straight to my face.
“Oh…” I closed my eyes for the briefest moment. “Spirits.”
Beside me, Zuko looked caught somewhere between horrified and thoroughly amused. The Chamberlain silently produced a pristine white handkerchief from his sleeve.
"Thank you." Zuko muttered quietly as he accepted it. He waited until the next small gap between guests and then he discreetly dabbed the corner of his mouth. When he lowered the handkerchief… A vivid crimson stain marked the otherwise perfect white fabric.
“I had no idea.” I whispered.
“So I gathered, Your Majesty.” The Chamberlain replied as though we weren’t talking about my lipstick decorating the Fire Lord's face. He bowed once before disappearing as silently as he had arrived.
“I am so sorry.” I whispered, glancing towards Zuko. Yet despite my embarrassment… I found myself fighting a smile. He looked down at the handkerchief in his hand before he glanced back at me. It took only a second before the corner of his mouth lifted.
“Don't apologise.” I blinked.
“You are not embarrassed?” His smile widened just enough for only me to notice.
“There is nothing you could ever do that would embarrass me.” The warmth in his voice settled somewhere deep in my chest. “And besides…” He gave the stained handkerchief another amused glance. “...I have spent years learning not to panic in front of diplomats.” A quiet giggle escaped me before I could stop it. I quickly covered my mouth, trying to compose myself. At the same time, Zuko looked rather pleased with himself.
Unable to resist, I glanced across the hall. Several guests who had very obviously been watching suddenly developed an intense interest in entirely different parts of the room. One ambassador became fascinated by a nearby tapestry, a noble woman examined her wine with remarkable concentration and the three young women from earlier looked positively mortified after realising I had caught them looking. I had to bite the inside of my cheek to stop myself from smiling.
Hidden beneath the heavy folds of my sleeve, I felt something brush gently against my hand. Zuko. Without taking his eyes off the next guest approaching us, his fingers found mine for the briefest moment. Just enough for our little fingers to hook together. It was invisible to everyone else, the gesture was entirely for me. I glanced up at him, his expression had returned to that calm, regal composure expected of the Fire Lord, but I caught the faintest hint of amusement lingering in his golden eyes. My own cheeks were still warm, the embarrassment hadn't vanished but it was no longer the overwhelming feeling bubbling inside me. Instead… Something softer settled there. Something strangely satisfying. Because every whisper that would spread through the palace before the evening was over would tell exactly the same story; not that the Fire Lord had looked handsome, not that the banquet had been magnificent, not even that the rulers of every nation had gathered beneath one roof. No… They would all remember that the Fire Lord had unknowingly entered the Great Hall wearing his wife's kiss. And every noblewoman who had allowed herself to imagine, even for just a fleeting moment, that Zuko might one day look at her the way he looked at me... Had been reminded before the evening had truly begun that his heart had already been claimed entirely and irrevocably by his Fire Lady.
And as another guest stepped forward to offer their greetings, I found that I couldn't quite bring myself to regret the little crimson stain I had left behind.
Well… According to the original script, Katara was pregnant during the film (and judging by her bump in the illustrations, she was quite far along), but in any case, I understand where you’re coming from and thank you for your reply.
You are absolutely right that she was pictured pregnant in early art. I am, however, very glad that they changed their minds.
Believe me, I want to see Aang and Katara pregnant and I have been eating up the concept art, but nonetheless I am happy that with the plot and battles we have gotten, that Katara wasn't pregnant.
Thank you for understanding my view on this though 🤍
I saw you now accept requests and I love your writing and I would therefore love to see how you would write an arranged marriage trope between Zuko and a reader. Is that something you might consider writing? 😇
Hi! Thank you so much! 🤍 That honestly means a lot to hear.
An arranged marriage between Zuko and the reader is something I could see myself writing. I actually think it has a lot of potential, especially because it naturally lends itself to slowburn romance, political intrigue, and plenty of character development; all things I really enjoy writing.
I am not making any promises just yet, but I could definitely see myself turning it into a little series with shorter chapters rather than a one-shot. If I write it, it would by no means be the same length as NTLAA, but I do think this trope needs time to let the relationship develop naturally instead of rushing it.
So... it is certainly an idea I would like to explore! That said, I can't say when I would get around to writing it, as I am still working on my other series. But it is definitely on my radar now. 😊
Thank you for the suggestion, and I will be sure to let you know if and when I decide to start working on it! 🤍
Hi! I saw that you’re accepting requests, so… I’ve got a fun idea and I’d be delighted if you liked it. A reader who’s heavily pregnant × Zuko (or Aang, or both at the same time 🌚), whose waters break during a battle with Tagah, and towards the end she says something like: ‘I don’t want to distract you, but any minute now the baby’s going to shoot out like a cork from a bottle – you’ll have to catch it.’
Hi! Thank you so much for your request and for thinking of me. 😊 And although I can see the humor you want to portray in it, I am going to have to pass on this one.
Even though that I write for fictional characters, I always try to stay as true as possible to how I perceive their personalities. I assume you have read (some of) my stories and I truly hope that you can see hints of the personalities we all love from the original content. I put a lot of effort into keeping them in character.
With that in mind, I just can't imagine a scenario where this idea would "realistically" happen. The way I see it, neither Zuko nor Aang would ever take their heavily pregnant wife into the middle of a mission or battle. They would do everything they could to keep both her and their unborn child safe at home instead.
Likewise, I can't imagine a mother willingly putting herself and her baby in such an incredibly dangerous situation while knowing she could go into labour at any moment. On top of that, someone who is heavily pregnant simply would not be in a position to participate in such an intense battle. It is an enormous physical strain, and, like I said, I can't see either of these characters allowing the person they love to be exposed to that kind of danger.
It is a funny mental image, but it just does not fit with how I interpret these characters, so it is not something I would feel comfortable writing.
Thank you again for the suggestion, though! I really appreciate you taking the time to share your idea with me, maybe someone else can work out your idea. And I hope you continue to enjoy my stories. 🤍
Pairing: Fire Lord Zuko x F Reader and Avatar Aang x F Reader
Chapter Prologue: It is the day after Zuko and Reader have shared their first night together. Zuko has to go about his day trying to make sure nobody figures out what happened in his room the previous night.
Warnings this chapter: implied smut, smut
A/N: This is an 18+ story. So MDNI.
Also note that English is not my first language. So I apologise in advance for any mistakes, I really try to proofread everything. But mistakes do happen. If you see some, I don’t mind if you point them out to me.
Please don’t copy my work. A lot of time and effort went into it.
The first thing I became aware of was her warmth. Before I even opened my eyes, I could feel her pressed against me, her back resting against my chest, my arm still draped around her waist exactly where I had left it. For one selfish moment, I allowed myself to pretend the world beyond these walls did not exist.
When I finally opened my eyes, the room was still half dark, the pale morning light was slipping through the sheer curtains. She slept peacefully beside me, her breathing slow and even, a few loose strands of hair scattered across the pillow. She was still here. A quiet smile found its way onto my lips. My eyes traced every familiar line of her face as memories of the night before returned one by one.
I wished I could stop time, since it wouldn’t be long before my manservant would come for me. I didn’t want to leave, but if this had to remain a secret, I had to get up, get dressed and leave my room before he came knocking.
Reluctantly, I began to slide my arm from around her waist, moving as carefully as I could. She stirred slightly against my chest. I froze and a slow breath escaped me… I had failed. Her eyes slowly opened, still clouded with sleep. The moment they found mine, they softened, and a sleepy smile curved across her lips.
“Good morning.” Her voice was warm and husky from sleep.
“Good morning.” I murmured. The thought of leaving her vanished as soon as I looked into her beautiful sleepy eyes. I turned onto my side and propped myself up on one elbow, simply watching her wake. She looked impossibly peaceful, her eyes only half open, still lingering somewhere between dreams and reality. Unable to help myself, I leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to the tip of her nose. I watched her as the corners of her mouth twitched and I smiled in return. Then I kissed her cheek and another just an inch next to the previous spot. And then another, and another. I didn’t stop until a little giggle escaped her. “I still can’t quite believe that you are here…” More quick playful pecks on her jaw. “... in my bed…” My kisses trailed up. “...naked.” I whispered the last word beside her ear. Her eyes opened fully, bright with amusement. Before she could answer, I captured her lips with mine. The kiss was slow, unhurried, as though I had all the time in the world. When I finally drew back, I rested my forehead lightly against hers. “It feels like I am still dreaming.” I confessed quietly. Her fingers slipped into my hair, gently working through some tangles sleep had left behind. I enjoyed every slow stroke.
“Would you like me to pinch you?” She asked playfully. “Just to prove this isn't a dream.”
“I think you might have to.” She smiled at me as though there was nowhere else she would rather be, and I found myself falling for her all over again. How was it possible that she could look so beautiful without trying? Wrapped in my sheets, her cheeks still flushed with sleep, her tangled hair fanned over her pillow and yet she had never looked prettier. Without thinking twice, I lowered myself and I kissed her once more. Her hand drifted from the back of my neck to my upper arm. She gently caught my bicep between her fingers before giving the smallest, most careful pinch. I smiled against her lips. Moments later I drew away from her, just enough so I could look her in her eyes.
“It would seem…” I said softly. “...that this is very real.”
“It is.” Her thumb brushed absentmindedly across my arm. “And you better start believing it.” Her gaze never left mine. “I am still here.” She smiled again. “And I always will be.” I couldn’t help but smile back at her. The sun started to illuminate her face. She looked beautiful, absolutely radiant. But the rising sun also reminded me that time had not paused simply because I wished it had. My smile slowly faded.
“What is it?” Concern immediately softened her expression. Her instinctive kindness and gentleness made my heart ache. I wanted nothing more than to stay exactly where I was, forever. I reached up and gently cupped her cheek, letting my thumb trace the softness of her skin.
“I am afraid I have to leave you.” I had to force the words out and her smile faltered.
“Already?”
“Yes.” I sighed softly. “Unfortunately, the sun refuses to stop rising.” A faint smile tugged at my lips before disappearing again “I have work. I need to get ready for the day.” I paused as my thumb continued its slow caress over her cheek. “It won't be long before there is a knock at the door and my servant comes in.”
“To do what?”
“He helps me get ready for the day. He dresses me, arranges my hair.” Her expression shifted; she looked confused in a way that made something warm settle in my chest. “It is the proper way of things.” I explained with a small smile. “Or at least, that is what the palace insists.” She looked at me as though she still couldn’t quite believe it. “But since I don't want to kick you out of our bedchambers, today I will do the improper thing and get ready by myself.” I gently brushed a strand of hair from her face. “You know…, like any grown man should…” She lightly chuckled. “Then he won't have a reason to come into the room.” My voice dropped to a whisper. “Which means he won't see you naked in this bed.” My eyes lingered on hers. “And this will be our secret for a little while longer.”
“It would be easier if you just kicked me out.”
“Probably.” I admitted. “But I never want you to leave this room.”
“I can always come back.”
“I hope you do.”
“I will.”
“Good.” We both smiled. “But for now… Stay. Sleep a little while longer. You can stay until noon. That is when the servants come to tidy the room.” Reluctantly, I shifted towards the edge of the bed. The thought of leaving her there, beneath my sheets, made standing feel almost impossible. She moved with me, closing the distance until the warmth of her bare body rested against my back. Gentle kisses brushed across my shoulder. I closed my eyes. If she continued, I would never leave.
“Won't it seem suspicious if I don't show up at breakfast?” She murmured against my skin. I turned my head just enough to look at her.
“Sokka had actually suggested it would be wise if one of us were to miss breakfast.” A smile spread against my shoulder.
“He did. But… won't it be suspicious to our others?”
“Toph never attends breakfast.” I simply said.
“No, but I do."
“Everyone deserves a lie-in every now and then.”
“When do you get one?”
“Every seven days. As luck would have it... that is tomorrow.” I smiled as the weight of duty seemed lighter for a short moment. “I will have the whole day free. No meetings, no busy schedule, no councilmen nagging at me.” My gaze met hers. “I can spend the entire day with you without having to leave. Just the two of us.” A faint chuckle escaped me. “Assuming, of course, there isn’t a sudden crisis that demands my immediate attention.”
“That sounds perfect.” Her voice became softer. “But do you really already have to leave me now?” Her question came out quiet. Every part of me wanted to say no. I wanted to forget everything waiting for me beyond these walls; schedules, meetings and expectations. I wanted to crawl back beneath the blankets, pull her into my arms and remain there until the sun disappeared again. But instead, I nodded.
“If we want to keep things between us…” Her fingertips wandered across my chest as she continued placing soft kisses against my back. “...then yes.” I let out a slow breath. “Trust me, I don't want to leave you. I do so very reluctantly.” I turned towards her once more and stole one lingering kiss, savouring it. Then, with more effort than I cared to admit, I forced myself to stand. The cool morning air met my skin. Behind me, she remained kneeling amongst the tangled sheets, utterly unconcerned by her nakedness. I glanced back. The sight stole the breath from my lungs. A warm sensation rushed through me seeing her like that. A smile curved across my lips. “Will you do me a favor?” She tilted her head.
“What is it?” I let my gaze wander over her for perhaps a heartbeat longer than I should have.
“Cover yourself.” I met her eyes again, unable to suppress the amused smile tugging at the corners of my mouth. “We can’t focus when you are looking like that.” I looked down as I felt my shaft twitching. She followed my eyes. The corner of her mouth curled into a smug little smile. Still, she did as I asked. With infuriatingly deliberate slowness, she eased herself back onto the mattress, drawing the sheets over her body inch by inch before she settled back against the pillows.
“There.” She murmured, looking entirely too pleased with herself. “Better?”
“Barely.” She chuckled. I turned my back to her, walking over to my wardrobe, retrieving a clean pair of underpants. I quickly put them on, covering my hardening length.
“My trousers…” I muttered to myself, eyes scanning the floor. “Where did those end up?” Clothes were scattered everywhere. One boot rested near the bed, while the other had somehow found its way beneath a chair. My robes were laying at my feet. But something considerably smaller caught my eyes. I paused. A slow grin tugged at my mouth. I bent down and hooked the delicate piece of fabric around a finger before straightening again. I turned back toward her, the fabric dangling on one finger. “I haven’t found my trousers yet…” I said, unable to hide the amusement in my voice. “But I did find these.” She looked up from the pillows. Her eyes widened for the briefest moment before narrowing them as she looked at me holding up her panties.
“Throw them here.” The authority in her voice only made me grin wider. Instead of obeying, I inspected her panties with exaggerated consideration, letting them move between my hands.
“I think I would rather keep them.” My smile widened.
“Zuko.” She laughed, warm and effortless, and I found myself smiling simply because she had made that sound. “I need them.” My gaze back on the fabric as memories rose of how I took them off of her the night before. Heat stirred in my chest and I had to clear my throat before the memories carried me too far. She moved and leaned over the side of the bed, reaching for something on the floor. “How about a trade?” She was holding my trousers. I huffed a laugh.
“So that is where those went.” I stepped closer to her. She lifted them just beyond my reach, a triumphant smile threatening to break across her face.
“A fair exchange.” She declared. For a brief moment, neither of us moved. We just looked at each other. Then, with an exaggerated sigh, I surrendered.
“Very well.” I finally held her panties out. She quickly grabbed them, before I could change my mind. In return she tossed me my trousers. I caught them with a chuckle.
“You drive a hard bargain.” I shook my head, unable to suppress my smile. I quickly pulled on my trousers, before I moved to a table on the opposite side of the room. I sat down in the chair and looked in the mirror. Despite that she had already released a knot or two, my hair was still an absolute mess. No, it was an absolute disaster. Dark strands escaped in every direction, tangled into impossible knots from sleep... and from everything that had happened the night before. A quiet chuckle escaped me; she had done this. Reaching for the brush, I began the task of working it through my hair, wincing as it caught on yet another stubborn tangle.
Movement caught my eye in the mirror. In the reflection, I watched her as she gracefully slipped from beneath the sheets. The morning light tracing her naked silhouette. My pulse betrayed me all over again. So did my breath as it hitched. She reached for one of my spare night robes hanging beside the bed and slipped it over her shoulders. It was way too big on her, she nearly drowned in them. The sleeves hid her hands, the hem touched the floor and the collar slipped lazily over one shoulder. She made no effort to pull it back in place. She looked far too comfortable wrapped in something that belonged to me. It made my chest ache to go back to her. Every sensible part of me urged me to finish getting ready for the day. Every other part wanted to cross the room, pull her back into my arms and carry her back to the bed. She had come to stand behind me.
“What are you doing?” Her fingers closed gently around the brush. Without resistance, I let her take it from my hand.
“What does it look like?” She playfully asked.
“It looks like you are going to make me late.” I stated, lifting a brow as we looked at each other through the mirror.
“No.” A smile tugged at her lips as she lifted the brush to my hair. “It looks like I am brushing your hair.” She lifted the brush and gently moved it down. “If Jun is allowed to do this, then so am I.” I couldn’t help smiling.
“You know my manservant’s name?”
“This may be my first stay in your bedchamber…”
“Our bedchamber.” I corrected her. She intensely looked at me through the mirror.
“As long as we are a secret, this is your bedchamber.” There was just enough authority in her voice to make me smile. “And you will refer to it as your bedchamber.”
“As you command.” I sighed in surrender, almost unable to hide the smile behind it. She resumed brushing my hair with slow, patient strokes.
“As I was saying…” She continued, a satisfied smile still lingering in her voice. “This may be my first stay in your bedchamber…” She put extra emphasis on the word your, making sure I heard it. “It is not my first stay in the palace.” I felt the knots give way beneath her careful hands. “Of course I know your manservant’s name. He is a really nice man.”
“That he is.” I agreed. I watched her in the mirror instead of my own reflection. Her brow furrowed slightly in concentration as she worked another tangle free, her movements impossibly gentle. “He is also very punctual. Most days I appreciate that.”
“But today?”
“Today…” I breathed out a quiet laugh. “I might condemn him for it.” A soft smile appeared on her lips. I closed my eyes as the brush passed once more through my hair. “I must admit, I am rather enjoying this.”
“Are you now?”
“Mhmm.” I could happily have sat there all morning, listening to nothing but the quiet scrape of the brush and the steady rhythm of her breathing behind me. But, I forced myself back to reality. “Jun will be here soon.” I opened my eyes again, finding her gaze. “And no matter how much I enjoy this, I really must hurry.” I rose reluctantly from the chair. I turned, brushing a quick kiss against her cheek as I passed.
“Zuko…” There was something thoughtful in her voice that stopped me before I took another step. I glanced back.
“What is it?” She tilted her head.
“How exactly am I supposed to leave your room without being seen?” I blinked. It was such an obvious question. And somehow, the thought hadn't crossed my mind.
“I will dismiss the guards again.” I said after a moment. “Like I did yesterday.”
“That will raise a lot of suspicion if you do that every night and every morning.” A smile tugged at her lips. “It won’t take long before people start asking questions.” She wasn’t wrong. I sighed. “What if you came to my room tonight instead? There are no guards stationed nearby in that area of the palace.”
“Your room?” My brows furrowed.
“What is wrong with my room?” A teasing smile appeared on her face.
“With the room itself?” I shook my head. “Nothing. But the fact that our friends are closeby... that changes things.” I spoke whilst contemplating all that could go wrong. “There is a higher risk of getting caught. We can be seen... or heard.” Her eyebrow arched at the amusement in my voice. “And I quite liked the sounds you make when I touch you.” Heat crept into her cheeks. “I don't want there to be a reason to smother them.” My voice low and deep as I stepped closer to her. “I want to work hard to earn them. I want to hear them as they erupt from you.”
“Am I really that loud?”
“No. But I think we will be tempted to forget how careful we are supposed to be. And if we are careless, then we will easily be loud enough for the adjacent room to hear.” I now stood in front of her. I licked my lips. “To be perfectly honest… I quite like that thought…” I closed the distance between us. “...that someone else can hear me making you mine.”
Without warning, I grabbed her chin between my fingers and tilted her head as I crushed my lips on hers. My hands moved between my robe she was wearing. I instantly touched her skin. My hand cupped her breast and I started kneading it. Thumb brushing over her nipple. It instantly responded to my touch, as it peaked outward. A moan escaped her, smothered by my lips. I smiled whilst kissing her. Her hands were roaming my bare shoulder blades. My length twisted involuntarily and it hardened even more. After a moment, I reluctantly broke away from her. Her lips followed mine for a moment as she leaned forward, chasing after the kiss.
“I am sorry.” I whispered, forcing myself to take a step back. “But I really do have to finish getting dressed.” She looked at me with an unmistakable pout. Spirits… She had no idea what that expression did to me. Or perhaps she did. Nonetheless, she was making this so hard... I wanted her.
“You really can’t kiss a girl like that and then simply walk away.” A quiet laugh escaped me, though it sounded more strained than amused. Before temptation had the chance to win again, I turned towards the wardrobe, pulling on a clean tunic before shrugging into my crimson robes.
“I will make it up to you tonight.” I promised as I put on my boots. “I will do anything you want.” I gathered my sash from where it had been abandoned on the floor. I wrapped it around my waist and tightened it before reaching for my belt a few steps away, fastening it with practiced ease. "See." I stretched out my arms and looked back at her. “I can dress myself.” She chuckled. I ran a hand through my hair before gathering a section of the strands and I made it into a topknot. I tied it securely before crossing the distance to the small table behind me. My headpiece rested where I had left it the night before. I lifted the golden ornament and settled it over the knot, sliding the pin into place.
“You look like the Fire Lord again.” When I looked up, she was already moving toward me. She walked slowly, deliberately. Her hips swayed. The oversized robe should have dulled her movements, but it didn’t. If anything, it made the way she moved feel more dangerous. The fabric slipping and shifting with every unhurried step. My breath caught at the sight of her. Her eyelids low, her gaze steady on me, like she already knew exactly what she was doing to my composure. My chest was burning. She stopped just in front of me. Her hands rose and settled against my chest. Her fingers curled into the edge of my robe, tugging me forward. She was demanding me to lean forward and I didn’t resist her at all. I found her lips again. Her hands roamed from my chest to the back of my neck. Her fingers threading into my hair. My arms wrapped around her waist. Pulling her close against me without thinking.
Then, we were interrupted by a sharp knock on the door. We quickly jumped away from each other, like we had been caught doing something we weren’t allowed to do. I turned slightly, clearing my throat, straightening my robes.
“Just a moment.” I called out. I looked at her. I had to be quick now, since I couldn’t let Jun wait too long. “I will dismiss the guards for the entire morning.” I whispered, afraid any sound would give away what had happened in this room. “You will have the room to yourself. Rest a bit more. But make sure you are gone by noon. After that, the guards will return to their post and the servants will come and tidy the room.” She nodded firmly. My gaze held hers for a fraction, smiling at her. “Will I see you in my study again before dinner?”
“Of course you will.”
“I have a plan for how we can go unseen. I will explain it later.”
“Okay.” A soft smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. I stole one last kiss from her lips. I didn’t linger. I couldn’t. I forced myself to turn around and I crossed the room. I opened the door and stepped out, becoming the Fire Lord once again.
“Good morning, Jun.” I spoke to him after I closed the door behind me. He stood waiting in the corridor.
“Your Majesty.” He looked me up and down. “You are already dressed.”
“Yes, Jun.” I offered him a small, practiced smile. “Busy day ahead.”
“Of course, my Lord.” He didn’t press farther. He never did. Guards stood at attention on either side of the corridor. I stopped in front of them. Jun stopped as well, always a step behind me. For a brief moment, I said nothing. I had to be careful. If it was too abrupt, a dismissal would raise questions. I let my expression settle into calm authority before speaking.
“Your duties have changed.” I said at last. “Following the Kemurikage incident, I want the palace's outer defences inspected again. Every wall. Every entrance. Take the morning to do so. Bring all the guards from this corridor with you and personally hand me a report before the end of the day.”
“Understood, my Lord.” The guard briefly bowed his head. “Shall we assign replacements for the corridor?”
“No.” I shook my head lightly. “No replacements required.” Then he nodded.
“As you command.” I nodded at him and walked away before he could see anything in my face that didn’t belong there. Jun followed me in silence as we walked to the hall where breakfast was served.
I walked into the hall and was immediately met with voices. Kiyi was already seated at the table, focused on her breakfast while her parents sat beside her, speaking in low tones between bites. Aang had almost emptied his bowl. Katara and Suki were talking among each other.
To my right, a long banquet table stretched beneath hanging lanterns. Steam was rising from dishes, fruit was glistening in syrup, pastries still warm from the ovens, and servants moved silently amongst it all, replenishing platters before anyone noticed they were empty.
Azula stood at the far end of the table, carefully selecting some pieces of fruit. I walked over to her. Jun still one step behind me. I lifted my hand for him to stop. He left me without question. I picked up a bowl.
“Good morning, Azula.”
“Good morning, Zuko.” It still struck me how different her voice had become. The sharpness that had once accompanied nearly every word had softened. Not entirely, but there was warmth now. I watched her put a piece of starfruit in her bowl.
“Hey, Zula…” My voice dropped a little. “I am sorry that I haven’t been able to see you much these last days.” She glanced up at me.
“Don’t worry.” She said smoothly. “We will have plenty of time.” A faint smile touched her lips. “Besides, you are busy.” She gave me a knowing look.
“Yes…” I admitted with a sigh.
“You know…” Her smile widened by a fraction. “I could always relieve you of that burden.” I shot my eyebrows up and gave her a certain look.
“Ahem.” I scraped my throat. She finally looked at me fully after she had added a final piece of fruit. Amusement flickered behind her eyes. It was a joke. I knew it had been a joke. It was the same type of joke I had once told Aang when I said I could try and catch him again if he wanted to relive old times. “Never.” I whispered as I leaned slightly toward her. The word carried a smile, but it also carried a promise. She smiled and turned away. There was amusement visible in her expression.
“Please make sure that never happens.” Sokka muttered as he appeared beside me, watching her walk toward the table.
“Relax.” I said. “She was joking.”
“Yeah… but still.” He shot me a meaningful look.
“Don’t worry. I won’t ever let that happen.” I added quietly.
“Good.” Satisfied with my answer, Sokka's attention immediately shifted to his breakfast options. “Oh…” His eyes lit up. “I love these honeyflame pancakes.” A quiet laugh escaped me.
“I know you do.” Sokka looked at me. “That is why I once told the chef to make extra whenever you stay here.”
“Ahh…” He cooed. "Did you really?” A grin spread across his face.
“Hmm.” I nodded.
“Zuko…” He placed a hand dramatically over his heart. “...You are such a good friend.”
“So are you.” The words left my mouth quietly. His expression softened almost unnoticeably, he knew exactly what I meant. His eyes travelled the length of the hall, lingering nowhere for long. To anyone watching, it was a nonchalant glance. I knew it was anything but.
“So… Y/N decided to skip breakfast?” I looked around, trying to act casual.
“I suppose she did.” I said with a shrug. I refused to give the most perceptive person in the room even the smallest reason to suspect she wasn’t laying in her own bed.
“Smart choice.” Sokka hummed, a knowing look flickered across his face as he reached for a bowl. I added some food to my own, only now realising how hungry I was after the previous night. My bowl quickly filled, though not nearly as impressively as Sokka's. By the time he had finished, his stack of honeyflame pancakes looked less like a breakfast and more a tower that could tipple over any second.
“Planning to leave any for the rest of us?”
“They will make more.” His answer was immediate. “They always do.” I shook my head, laughing under my breath as we carried our breakfast towards the table. As soon as I sat down, Aang walked past me. He already finished his.
“See you in a bit, Zuko.” He said casually.
“Yeah.” I narrowed my eyes slightly as I watched him. “Sure... See you.” My gaze returned to my food. The morning rhythm continued; the scrape of utensils against porcelain, low conversation, the occasional burst of laughter from Sokka. I answered when spoken to and smiled where it was expected. But my thoughts were elsewhere. My mind was wandering to what happened last night. To the woman in my bed. She was probably still asleep. Or perhaps awake, wandering barefoot through my chambers, discovering pieces of my life I never imagined sharing with anyone. The thought made me smile.
I had finished my breakfast without really noticing. When I placed my chopstick down, Jun came standing behind me.
“My Lord.” He said respectfully. “If you are ready, the meeting is about to begin.” I exhaled and rose to my feet, ready to let myself get consumed by work.
We made our way through the palace towards the council chamber. I wasn’t ready for the day ahead. In fact, I was ill prepared for it. I disliked that feeling. Normally, I knew every meeting before I entered it; every report had been read, every argument considered, every possible objection anticipated. It was the only way I knew how to rule. But between Sokka’s visit and Y/N distracting me not much later, I had only managed to prepare for one meeting properly. Nevertheless, after everything that had happened the night before, I could forgive myself for facing one day being less prepared than usual.
The great doors of the council chamber swung open before me. The conversations inside faded almost at once. Council members, advisers and ministers rose from their seats as I entered, offering bows and respectful nods. I returned them with one of my own before letting my gaze travel across the room. My eyes landed on Aang. I slowed for only half a step. Then I crossed the remaining distance until I stood beside him, our shoulders nearly touching as we both continued looking ahead.
“Aang.” I said, genuinely surprised. “So, when you said see you in a bit... You actually meant see you in a bit.”
“Yes.” He replied simply.
“Okay… But what are you doing here?” I whispered. He turned his head just enough to look at me.
“What do you mean, what am I doing here?” He whispered back, his confusion seemed entirely genuine. “I am here at your invitation.” I turned my head slightly to meet his gaze. I blinked and he blinked back. “We planned this meeting almost two months ago. We discussed it in our letters…” I still stared at him. His expression shifted from confusion to disbelief. “We are supposed to talk about the future of Cranfish Town.” And then it dawned on me.
“Oh, Spirits.” I muttered, closing my eyes briefly. “I am so sorry. I forgot.” We both turned our heads forward again.
“Don't you have people reminding you of your schedule.” I vaguely remembered the Chamberlain mentioning it at the end of yesterday's meeting and I am sure documents regarding the subject were waiting on my desk for me to read them.
“I am still catching up after everything that has happened.” I confessed quietly. “And yesterday… wasn’t my most productive day.” Our voices still no more than a whisper, our gazes still remained on the group of people in front of us.
“What distracted you?” My eyes widened slightly and heat rose into my face before I could stop it. I cleared my throat quietly.
“Nothing.” My answer came just a fraction too quickly. “I was simply…” I searched for something that sounded believable. “I was just very tired. So I stopped early.”
“Well…” He whispered after a moment of silence. “Did you at least get a good night's sleep?” A smile escaped before I could stop it. I was lucky he was still looking forward.
“Oh yes.” I breathed out. “The best one in a long time.” If only he knew.
“Well that is at least something. But what do we do now?” I looked over to the Chamberlain who was sorting through documents.
“Chamberlain.” I called out to him. He looked up immediately.
“Yes, Fire Lord Zuko.”
“When is the meeting about metal imports scheduled?”
“Immediately after luncheon, Sir.” I turned back to Aang.
“Would you mind terribly coming back then instead?” My voice quiet again.
“No.” He shook his head, smiling.
“Chamberlain, I would like to make a change in today's schedule.” I announced. “Please move the meeting with the Avatar to this afternoon and bring the discussion on metal imports forward to this session.”
“Certainly, my Lord.” The Chamberlain replied. I leaned ever so slightly toward Aang again.
“I have actually prepared that one.” I admitted and he chuckled.
“And you think you have enough time to prepare for our meeting?”
By the time I heard footsteps in the corridor, I had almost finished another report. The bell announcing dinner would sound soon. I had been waiting for Zuko for some time and I had occupied myself the only way I could, by reading. A report on trade routes. A proposal from the southern provinces. Three petitions that somehow managed to say the same thing in three entirely different ways. Every document I had read, I placed back exactly where I had found it, careful not to disturb the meticulous order Zuko relied on.
At last, the handle turned and the door opened. Zuko stepped inside before quietly closing it behind him. For a moment, he simply remained there, his back resting against the door as he let out a slow, weary breath. Only then did he look up. The instant his eyes found me, something inside him visibly eased as the tension weighing down his shoulders loosened. A tired smile found its way onto his face.
“I am so sorry I am late.”
“Don’t worry about it.” I smiled back. “You are here now.” I crossed the room and stopped in front of him. He reached for me almost immediately. His palms settled against my cheeks, his thumbs brushing softly over my skin. I slipped my arms around his waist, my fingertips resting between his shoulder blades. He kissed me, slow and unhurried. As though this was the first moment all day he had truly allowed himself to breathe. The kiss deepened naturally and our tongues were dancing again. When we finally drew apart, he rested his forehead against mine. Both of us had to catch our breath.
“I really am sorry.” He murmured. “I didn’t want to keep you waiting. But it has been… quite the day.” He let out a quiet breath.
“Talk to me.” A faint chuckle escaped him.
“I am actually blaming you for it.” I leaned back just enough to meet his eyes.
“Blaming me?” I asked surprised.
“Yes. You were distracting me last night.” His smile widened. “Don’t get me wrong, you are a delightful distraction.” His thumb traced absentmindedly along my cheek. “The best kind actually. But a distraction nonetheless.” I laughed. “I hardly got any work done last night, and today I paid the price for it.” His hands slipped from my face to my waist. “Every meeting took longer, because I needed more time to read the documents I should have read the previous night.” He lowered his head until his forehead rested lightly against my shoulder.
“Sounds like you need to plan better.” He hummed against the fabric of my tunic. My fingertips were massaging the nape of his neck. I brought my lips closer to his ear. “Because I intend on claiming every one of your evenings.” That made him look at me again.
“So from now on… you need to stop scheduling every minute of your day.” He frowned thoughtfully. “During the day, give yourself an hour, preferably even two, where you don’t have anything planned.”
“Two?”
“Two hours where no one can demand anything from you. So you can use that time to prepare for other meetings that are being held on other days.” I said. “And if you have nothing to prepare for, you can just do whatever you want. Have tea with your mother. Play with Kiyi. See Azula. Take a nap. Train in the courtyard.” He pointed a finger in the air, interrupting me.
“My training is actually scheduled.” I chuckled.
“Good. That is one less thing to do in those two hours.” After a moment of silence, I smiled. “You could come and see me.” I whispered teasingly. “I am sure we can think of a few ways to fill those hours.”
“Now that sounds like a compelling reason.” He laughed quietly. Then his expression became more serious. “You make it sound very easy though.”
“It is easy.” I took both his hands in mine. “Just tell your Chamberlain that every day he must leave two hours untouched. No meetings, no petitions, no surprise audiences.” My expression turned softer, but laced with worry. “It is not healthy Zuko, the amount of time you spend on work.” I spoke quietly.
“I am only this busy because I am still catching up from the days I was gone for the mission.”
“No.” I shook my head. “It is not just now, Zuko. I have stayed here with you before. I remember the dinners you missed because you were still working.” My thumb stroked soothingly over his palm. “You deserve to relax, Zuko.” The words came out slowly and quietly. “You deserve to breathe, to rest, to shut off your mind.” I gently squeezed his hand. “You deserve moments where you are not the Fire Lord. You deserve to be just… you.” He didn’t answer, he only looked at me. “If you don’t allow yourself that, it will break you at some point.” His gaze lowered to our joined hands and his fingers intertwined with mine.
“You are right.” The admission came almost reluctantly. His eyes lifted to meet mine again. His were softer and more vulnerable now than when he had walked through the door. “But… perhaps I should begin with one hour.”
“No.” My directness startled him, he blinked. “Start with two.” I reached up, absentmindedly smoothing a strand of dark hair into place near his temple. “And if it turns out you don’t need two, then you can always go down to one. Or, spend that extra hour however you like.” My fingertips moved from his shoulder, down to his bicep and then they intertwined again with his. A hint of mischief in his eyes.
“You mean with you.”
“I didn’t say that…”
“You didn’t have to.” His smile spread slowly, until it became impossible not to mirror it.
“Or, like I already said, you can spend it with your mother or your sisters.” I tried to sound innocent.
“Very well.” He nodded. “Two hours.” He lifted our hands, bringing mine gently to his lips, kissing my knuckles.
“Zuko?” He looked up.
“Yes?”
“This morning…” I smiled. “You said you had a plan. A way for us to see each other without anyone noticing.” For a short moment he just stared, until realisation dawned.
“I almost forgot.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “But we can use the secret passages.” I blinked.
“You have secret passages?” He looked almost surprised by my surprise.
“Yes. This is a palace.” He stated as though that explained everything. “The Fire Lord needs to be able to escape if the palace is ever compromised.”
“I suppose that makes sense.” He nodded.
“There is an entrance hidden inside my bedchamber. And one of the exits is close to the guest wing.” His smile grew almost boyish. “And the best part?” He leaned closer. “There are no guards stationed there.” He whispered with amusement.
“That sounds almost too convenient.”
“Yes, well, there is a catch…”
“Of course there is.”
“The mechanisms only respond to firebending.” I tilted my head and raised my brows.
“That is a dangerous design flaw.” He looked puzzled.
“Why?”
“What if one day there is a Fire Lord who can't firebend?” He opened his mouth. Then closed it again.
“I…” His brows knit together. “I have genuinely never considered that.”
“And clearly, whoever designed these passages, didn't either.” He let out a quiet laugh.
“You make an excellent point. I will add it to the list.”
“That is great for future generations of Fire Lords, but for now it means that between the two of us, only one can open the passages.”
“Don’t worry. I will come for you every evening.” His smile was warm and tender. “And I will walk you back every morning.” I smiled at him in return.
“Every evening?”
“Every evening.”
“And every morning?” He nodded without hesitation. His forehead rested gently against mine once more.
To the very lovely Anon who send me a message today about a possible part II for The Promise Between Us, I will very seriously consinder it.
I love (LOVE!!) writing angst and I love your suggestion.
But at the same time, I already have a certain story in mind that might be a bit similar. And I really want to work out that idea, but it is rather heartbreaking and I just haven't been able to start writing it.
And I don't want to create two works that are too similar. So if it is alright with you, I will first write that story and see how it develops (because quite often with me the way I imagined something is not how it ends up). And then see if and how I can work out your suggestion.
Do you take requests? Because I love your writing, I think you are so good at building up stories and it would love if you could write something! 🤩❤️
That is so kind of you! Thank you so much. ❤️
I do take requests. I am still writing my series NTLAA, but in between I will try to make time. So if you have something in mind, just send it to me and I will see if I can make it work! 😊😇
Summary: Three months into your relationship with Aang, the two of you have fallen into an easy rhythm, splitting your time between Air Temple Island and your cosy apartment. One night, he discovers your adorable habit of talking in your sleep and begins playfully responding whenever you mumble. But when a sleepy confession slips past your lips, Aang is left with a secret that only he remembers.
Warnings: none, just fluff
A/N: Memories are written in cursive.
Also note that English is not my first language. So I apologise in advance for any mistakes, I really try to proofread everything. But mistakes do happen. If you see some, I don’t mind if you point them out to me.
Please don’t copy my work. A lot of time and effort went into it.
Word count: 2.827
It had been three blissful months together. Three months since the day you met him in the busiest market in the city.
You had been weaving through the bustling stalls, your basket brimming with fresh fruit, vegetables and fragrant herbs, when you collided with someone coming the other way. The impact sent you stumbling backwards with a startled gasp as your basket slipped from your fingers. Time seemed to slow for a moment. You watched in horror as it tumbled towards the cobbled street, already picturing bruised apples and vegetables rolling in every direction. But the basket never hit the ground.
A sudden rush of cool air brushed against your face as you watched how your basket slowed. It hovered just above the ground before gently rising again, drifting through the air until it settled neatly into the waiting hands of the young man standing opposite you.
‘I am so sorry.’ He blinked, almost as surprised as you were, before offering you an apologetic smile. He held the basket out to you. ‘I wasn't looking where I was going.’ You stared at him for a long moment before accepting it, your fingers brushing his. His touch was warm despite the cool breeze that still lingered around him.
‘Wow…’ Your eyes darted between him and the basket. ‘How did you do that?’ A faint blush crept onto his cheeks. He rubbed the back of his neck, looking almost embarrassed by the attention.
‘Oh... that?’ He said with an awkward laugh. ‘I didn't actually move the basket itself.’ Your brow furrowed. ‘I bent the air around it.’ Realisation dawned on your face.
‘You are an airbender!’ A soft chuckle escaped him as he watched your expression light up with astonishment.
‘I am.’ As if to demonstrate, he lifted one hand, palm facing the sky. With the slightest flick of his wrist, the air stirred. A gentle breeze spiralled upwards, tugging playfully at your hair. A loose leaf skittered across the ground before rising into the air, where it hovered effortlessly above his hand. It twirled in slow, graceful circles, carried by a current you couldn't see, before settling delicately onto his fingertips.
‘When something falls…’ His eyes followed the leaf with an ease that suggested bending and breathing were one and the same to him. ‘I can create an updraft beneath it. That pushes against gravity and slows it down. Then I guide the airflow around it, almost like it is resting on a cushion of wind.’ He smiled, watching the leaf as it was floating back to the ground, before he looked back at you. You met his friendly eyes, unable to suppress the smile tugging at your lips.
‘So... what you are actually saying is that the wind did all the hard work.’ His grin spread instantly, bright and infectious.
‘More or less.’ His grey eyes sparkled with quiet amusement. ‘I just asked it to help.’ Something about the way he said it made it sound less like controlling the wind and more like befriending it. A laugh escaped you before you could stop it. He smiled even wider, clearly pleased he had managed to make you laugh. ‘I am Aang.’ He said, extending his hand and you slipped yours into his without hesitation.
‘Y/N.’ His grip was gentle, careful even, as though he feared squeezing too tightly. The touch sent an unexpected warmth rushing through you. A strange flutter settled in your chest and it was determined to stay. For the briefest moment, neither of you let go. His grey eyes remained fixed on yours, bright with kindness and quiet curiosity. Around you, merchants called to passing customers, children darted between the stalls and carts rattled over the cobbles, yet for one suspended heartbeat, it felt as though the world had narrowed to the space between your joined hands. Only when someone brushed past his shoulder did Aang seem to remember where he was. His eyes widened slightly, a faint blush crept across his cheeks as he seemed to realise he was still holding your hand, and with an embarrassed chuckle, he quickly withdrew his from yours.
‘I, uhm…’ He rubbed the back of his neck, his blush deepening. ‘Sorry.’ You couldn't help smiling.
‘For what?’ A shy grin tugged at the corner of his mouth.
‘I don't know.’ A soft laugh escaped you, and judging by the way his smile widened, he decided then and there that accidentally bumping into you had been the best part of his day.
It had probably been the strangest introduction of your life. And, as it turned out, the beginning of the happiest three months you could have imagined. It wasn't long in the grand scheme of things, but it had amazed you at how quickly he had become part of your life. You wanted all your days to include his laughter, his hand in your, his arm around you or to hear the gentle knock on your door that always came a second before he poked his head inside with an eager ‘Are you home?’
Some evenings you found yourself following him back to the Air Temple Island, where he shared a home with his friends. The place was never quiet. There was always someone laughing in another room, the smell of whatever Sokka had convinced himself he could cook lingering through the corridors. More often than not, Katara was chasing him out of the kitchen before dinner was ruined.
Other nights Aang stayed with you instead. Your apartment was considerably smaller, considerably quieter, but he loved it just the same. He loved waking up in your bed. He loved sharing breakfast with you in the tiny kitchen. He loved how you always insisted on making tea before either of you spoke. He loved how naturally your lives had begun weaving together. Nothing ever felt forced. Somewhere between shared dinners, lingering kisses at the door and one evening simply deciding neither of you wanted to say goodbye yet, sleeping beside one another had become the most natural thing in the world.
But perhaps his favourite moments came after you had fallen asleep. It started during the fourth week of your relationship. The two of you had only been sharing the same bed for about a week. As always, your conversations had wandered far into the night, jumping from childhood stories to dreams for the future and everything in between. Eventually your replies had grown slower, your words softer, until silence settled comfortably between you. Aang had assumed you were fast asleep when he suddenly heard a quiet murmur beside him.
‘...No…’ He turned his head. You were asleep… Right? Your breathing was slow and even, your chest rising and falling in a gentle rhythm. Your eyes remained closed, and you hadn't stirred for at least half an hour. Your brows knitted together for only a moment before relaxing again. ‘...Too many turtles…’ Aang blinked. ‘...Need... bigger basket…’ He stared at you in complete confusion before a smile slowly spread across his face.
‘Were they turtleducks?’ He whispered. Your lips twitched.
‘...Mm…Yes…’ He quickly pressed a hand over his mouth to stop himself laughing.
‘Oh, they were?’ He whispered back with complete seriousness. ‘How many?’ A long pause.
‘...Seven…’
‘Seven?’ He gasped dramatically. ‘That is far too many turtleducks.’ You sighed in your sleep, as though you were carrying the weight of an impossible problem.
‘...I know…’ By the time Aang buried his face in his pillow, his shoulders were shaking with silent laughter.
The following morning, while the two of you were preparing breakfast together, he had casually asked you about last night’s conversation.
‘So…’ You glanced over your shoulder. ‘How did the turtleducks fit into the basket?’ You had looked at him as though he had completely lost his mind.
‘What turtleducks?’
‘The seven you were collecting.’ You frowned as you stared at him.
‘Aang…’
‘Hmm?’ Amusement visible in his eyes.
‘Are you feeling alright?’ His grin only widened.
‘You don't remember?’
‘Remember what?’ When he explained what had happened, your eyes grew impossibly wide before your cheeks turned a brilliant shade of crimson.
‘I talked in my sleep again?’
‘Again?’ You groaned softly, hiding your face in your hands. ‘So this has happened before?’ You peeked at him through your fingers, looking thoroughly embarrassed.
'Apparently I sometimes mumble in my sleep a little.’
‘A little?’ He teased and you sighed in response.
‘I am so sorry.’ His expression softened immediately.
‘Hey.’ He gently pulled your hands away from your face before leaning down to press a tender kiss against the top of your head. ‘Don't apologise.’ You looked up at him. ‘It was absolutely adorable.’ The embarrassed smile that spread across your face instantly became one of his favourite expressions.
From that day onwards, he discovered there was no real pattern to it. Some weeks it happened twice while other weeks, not at all. Whenever it did, though, Aang quietly welcomed the conversations. They were rarely coherent. Usually they consisted of sleepy murmurs, half-finished thoughts and little mumbles that barely resembled proper sentences. Sometimes you answered questions he hadn't asked and sometimes you complained about entirely imaginary problems. Once, with complete conviction, you informed him that Momo wasn't allowed to become Fire Lord.
Aang took every conversation very seriously. Sometimes he asked follow-up questions and sometimes he agreed wholeheartedly with whatever nonsense your dreaming mind had come up with. And every single time, he ended up biting the inside of his cheek to stop himself laughing.
The best part came the following morning. Without exception… You never remembered a thing. He found it impossibly adorable.
Tonight was no different. You lay curled against his side, one arm lazily draped across his chest, your hand resting directly over his heart while your breathing grew slower with every passing minute. Aang absentmindedly combed his fingers through your hair, smiling to himself. Your eyes were already closed and every now and then you let out a soft hum in response to his gentle strokes, but your words had long since faded into sleepy murmurs. Then, almost too quietly to hear...
“I love you.” His hand stilled and for a heartbeat, he wondered if he had imagined it. You shifted slightly, nestling closer against him without ever opening your eyes.
“I love you…” You murmured again, your voice barely louder than a whisper. Warmth spread through his chest so suddenly it almost stole his breath. But then realisation dawned on him… You weren’t awake, in fact, you were dreaming. For all he knew, you could have been talking to anyone in your imaginary world.
“Who do you love?” He whispered. Your answer came almost instantly.
“You.” His breath caught and his heart felt like it might burst. A grin spread across his face before he could stop it.
“I love you too.” He whispered, pressing the gentlest kiss against your forehead. You made a content little noise.
“...Mm…” Your breathing indicated that you had long found the slow, even rhythm of deep sleep. Aang let out a quiet laugh, shaking his head affectionately.
“You won't remember any of this tomorrow.” He murmured fondly as his fingers went through your hair again. You didn't answer. But he hadn't expected you to. Instead, he pulled you just a little closer, resting his cheek against the top of your head. Long after he had closed his own eyes, he could still feel the warmth that your sleepy confession had left behind settling comfortably inside his chest.
The next morning… Nothing. Not even the faintest flicker of recognition. You chatted happily over breakfast, completely oblivious to the fact that, sometime during the night, you had quietly stolen his heart all over again. Several times he almost told you. The words reached the tip of his tongue before he swallowed them again. For some reason… He liked carrying this secret with him. It felt like an unintentional gift that you had entrusted only to him.
For nearly two weeks, Aang carried the secret with him. Not because he wanted to keep it from you, quite the opposite actually. Every time he looked at you, he wanted to tell you. He wanted to tell you how much he loved you. Every time you laughed, every time your hand found his without thinking, every time you smiled at him from across a crowded room, the words rose to the surface. ‘I love you.’
But every time he was about to say it, he remembered the night you had whispered the words first in your sleep. He kept the secret because he wanted to give you time to say them again, but this time while you were awake. And so he waited. Until one evening…
The two of you had wandered out of the city after dinner, following one of the winding paths overlooking the sea. The sun had already begun its slow descent, painting the horizon in streaks of gold, orange and pink. The air was pleasantly warm, carrying the scent of saltwater and wildflowers as the breeze played with the loose strands of your hair. You walked hand in hand, neither of you in any hurry to reach anywhere.
“You have been awfully quiet.” You observed, glancing sideways at him.
“Hm?”
“What is going on in that head of yours?” He looked down at your joined hands. His thumb slowly traced circles over the back of yours.
“I have been trying to work up the courage to tell you something.” Your smile softened immediately.
“You can tell me anything.”
“I know.” He stopped walking. The breeze continued to carry a few strands of your hair across your face and without thinking, he reached over to tuck them gently behind your ear. His fingertips lingered against your cheek for just a moment.
“I have realised…” He began quietly. “...that every day with you somehow becomes my favorite day.” You felt your heartbeat quicken. “I look forward to seeing you before I have even opened my eyes in the morning.” His smile became almost shy. Your cheeks were already beginning to warm. “I didn't think it was possible to care about someone this much.” His grey eyes met yours. “But I do.” He took one slow breath. “I love you.” The world seemed to fall silent; the crashing waves below became distant, the breeze faded. For one long heartbeat, you simply stared at him. Then, color rushed into your cheeks.
“You…” You laughed softly, overwhelmed. “You love me?”
“Very much so.” Your eyes shimmered.
“I…” You ducked your head for a moment, suddenly fascinated by your shoes before you looked up into his eyes. “I love you too.” The words came out quieter than you had intended. His smile grew brighter than the setting sun in front of you.
“I was hoping you would say that.”
“Oh, were you now?” You teased, still blushing furiously.
“I had a feeling you would say it back.” He stated shyly.
“A feeling?” He hesitated for a moment.
“Well…” Immediately, you narrowed your eyes.
“What?” He scratched the back of his neck.
“So…” He paused.
“Aang…”
“Technically…” Another pause. “You said it first.” You blinked.
“What?”
“You just didn't know you did.” You stared at him in complete confusion.
“I definitely would have remembered.” He laughed softly.
“No.”
“I would have. It is quite a big moment in a relationship… The first ‘I love you’.”
“You were asleep.” Aang quietly confessed.
“I was what?” His grin became almost apologetic.
“A couple of weeks ago… You were already dreaming… And you whispered ‘I love you’.” Your mouth slowly fell open.
“I did not.”
“You did. But I wasn’t sure to whom you were talking, so I asked you.” You waited and he smiled. “And you answered…” He leaned in just enough for his forehead to brush yours. “You.” The heat that flooded your face was almost unbearable.
“And then you kept this to yourself?”
“I wanted to give you the time to say it again.” His admission quiet.
“Oh…” You buried your face against his shoulder with a groan. His laughter rumbled softly beneath your cheek. His hand came to rest at the back of your head, holding you closely to him for a moment. He kissed the top of your head before you moved away from him just enough to look him in the eyes. Your cheeks still flushed but there was more certainty and determination in your gaze now. “The next time I tell you I love you…” You slipped your arms around his waist. “I will make sure I am awake.” You rose onto your toes and kissed him, your lips soft against his. You cupped his cheek with one of your hands and held it there for a moment. When you drew away, your eyes locked again. And while being fully awake, fully aware, and smiling so much it almost hurt, you quietly spoke again. “I love you.”
Pairing: Fire Lord Zuko x F Reader and Avatar Aang x F Reader
Chapter Prologue: For the first time ever, Reader steps into Zuko's bedchambers and they spend their first night together. Reader gets insecure when she is about to experience something new, but Zuko is right there to comfort and guide her.
Warnings this chapter: explicit smut, f*ngering, unprotected s*x, p in v s*x,
A/N: This is an 18+ story. So MDNI.
Also note that English is not my first language. So I apologise in advance for any mistakes, I really try to proofread everything. But mistakes do happen. If you see some, I don’t mind if you point them out to me.
Please don’t copy my work. A lot of time and effort went into it.
“What do you mean… Sokka knows?” I asked, blinking at him. “Did you tell him?”
“No.” Zuko rubbed the back of his neck, already looking guilty. I narrowed my eyes.
“But?”
“But…” A faint smile touched his lips. “Apparently we weren’t exactly subtle. So… he noticed.”
“What?” A beat of silence.
“He noticed.”
“Zuko…”
“I know.” With an exaggerated groan, I dropped into one of the chairs in his study and dragging both hands down my face.
“If Sokka noticed…” I peeked at him through my fingers. “Do you think everyone else noticed too?” Zuko leaned back against the edge of his desk, crossing his arms.
“Sokka doesn't think so.” I lowered my hands.
“That is not very reassuring.” Zuko chuckled.
“He said he only noticed because he had known about my feelings for you for a long time.”
“Wait.” I blinked again. “He knew?”
“He also knew about your feelings for me.”
“He never said. Not to me.”
“He has told me.” Zuko continued. “And because he knew about our feelings, he picked up on certain things.”
“What things?” He hesitated for just a moment.
“The staring.”
“I did not stare.” I protested.
“No.” His lips curved into a grin. “I did.” Despite the slight panic I was feeling, I laughed. “But mostly it was the smiling that gave us away.” I narrowed my eyes and wanted to speak. But Zuko pointed his finger in the air, stopping me as I opened my mouth. “Before you try to defend yourself… I wasn’t the only one smiling.” I raised my arms in defeat.
“Fine.” I giggled.
“He also suggested we show a little more restraint at breakfast.” I raised my brow as I was asking a question.
“Meaning?” His expression became wonderfully awkward.
“Less smiling.” He laughed quietly, shaking his head. “Or that we should skip it completely.” After a moment of silence between us, I spoke again.
“How did he react?”
"With great joy.”
“That does explain his smile to me just now.” He narrowed his eyes.
“His smile?”
“When we said goodnight, he gave me this look with a very mischievous smile.” Zuko snorted.
“And then he has the audacity to say that we are not being subtle."
“How dare he?” I tried to look as serious as I could.
“Indeed…” Zuko agreed. “How dare he.” Neither of us managed to hold the serious expression for more than two seconds before laughter filled the study. When it faded, he smiled softly. “He promised to keep it to himself.”
“He won’t even tell Suki?”
“Not even Suki.” I nodded.
“You can trust Sokka with a secret.” I started. “But at the same time… he is a terrible liar.”
“Not a great combination.” Zuko winced.
“No.”
“So that just means that we will have to do better.”
“We didn't even survive one dinner, without one of our friends noticing.” Zuko straightened and began pacing around the room as though he was planning a military strategy.
“We could…” He tapped his chin thoughtfully. “...not be around each other when our friends are close.” I blinked.
“Avoid each other, you mean?” I narrowed my eyes. “And that wouldn't be suspicious at all.” I stated with sarcasm.
“Do you have a better idea?”
“Yes…” A slow grin spread across my face. “Send them away.” He laughed loudly.
“We already established that we wouldn't send our friends away.”
“I know.” I sighed dramatically. “But maybe you had changed your mind.”
“I know you don't actually want me to send them away.” He stepped closer until there was hardly any space between us.
“No. I don't.” I admitted with a smile. Then, without another word, he wrapped his arms around my waist. I melted against him almost instantly, resting my forehead against his shoulder. In return he rested his chin lightly on top of my head. After a moment, I smiled into his shoulder. “But…” Zuko hummed. “If Sokka starts making kissing noises whenever he catches us alone…”
“I will make him scrub the palace courtyard.” I looked up. He smiled, eyes warm. His hand moved to my cheek, gently brushing a loose strand of hair behind my ear. He let his fingertips linger there, before it moved back to my cheek. His thumb traced the curve of it. His touch soft and gentle. “For the record…” He said quietly, his golden eyes locking with mine. “I don’t actually mind that he knows.” He smiled. “If anyone had to figure it out, I am glad it is someone who was rooting for us from the beginning.”
“So am I.” His gaze lingered on mine, warm and impossibly tender.
“You know…” He said after a moment, a sly smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “We are probably going to fail spectacularly at being subtle.” I huffed and dramatically placed a hand over my chest as though he said something offensive.
“I was hoping you would have more faith in us.”
“I have plenty of faith in us.” He smiled. “But not so much in myself. Because I don’t think I could ever stop smiling whenever I see you.”
“That is actually very sweet.” I felt heat rising in my chest.
“I am glad you think so, because it will most likely be the reason the secret comes out.” For a heartbeat neither of us moved. Then he closed the last inch between us and pressed a slow, lingering kiss to my forehead. When he pulled back, he was smiling. His thumb back on my cheek, caressing it again.
“You should probably get some sleep.”
“We probably both should.” Neither of us made any effort to let go. “But I don’t want to.” I whispered. I lifted my chin, my lips hovering over his for a moment, before I pressed them against his. He responded immediately, dipping his head farther down. His arms quickly sneaked around my waist, pulling me close to him. I slipped my arms around his neck. My fingertips settled in his hair, tugging at it ever so slightly. He quietly whined against my mouth, his lips slightly parted. I used the opportunity to let my tongue enter his mouth. Our tongues were dancing again, just like they had done before dinner. Back then I had felt a familiar warmth rising in my body. It was doing so again.
As we continued to kiss each other, he moved one arm away from my waist and his hand moved to the side of my face. He gently pushed my hair over my shoulder. He broke the kiss and slowly moved his face to my now exposed neck. He placed a trail of wet kisses from my neck up to my ear. I hummed and tilted my head back, giving him more room to continue what he was doing. He then nibbled at my earlobe. I whimpered at the sensation.
“You know…” His lips close to my ear. I could feel his warm breath on my skin. “You don’t have to leave.” My core tightened at his suggestion. His lips back on my neck, his tongue swiping over my skin. I felt the familiar throbbing sensation between my legs.
“Zuko…” I breathed out his name. His touch was warm and steady. He moved away slightly, just enough for him to lock his eyes with mine. His expression was a combination of something incredibly tender and longing.
“Do you want to stay?” The question was barely above a whisper. There was no pressure. He was giving me every option to say no, and refuse to what he was suggesting. But I had no intention of leaving him. Not tonight, not ever. I faintly smiled.
“I do.” His shoulders relaxed. I hadn’t even noticed that he tensed up after asking me to stay. I was so caught up in the moment.
“You do?”
“If you will have me.” A soft laugh escaped him.
“Oh… I will have you.” It almost sounded desperate. “Wait here.” He walked to the door, opened it, slipped out and closed it behind him. After a short minute, the door opened again. He glanced at me from the doorway, reaching out his hand. I closed the distance and placed my hand in his. He intertwined our fingers. “Follow me.” He spoke quietly. “My bedchamber… is this way.” All the guards that had previously stood watch were gone. The hallways were completely empty. Zuko must have dismissed them so none of them saw where we were headed together.
We walked together in silence, it was laced with so much anticipation, excitement and nervousness. After a short walk we reached his room. Before he opened his door he stopped and turned to me. “I…” He let out a quiet breath, his fingers tightened ever so slightly around mine. “I don’t want you to think I am expecting anything.”
“I know.”
“I mean it.” His golden eyes searched mine. His were vulnerable in a way I had never seen from him before.
“I know.” I repeated. I stepped closer until our joined hands rested between us. His gaze never left mine. With my free hand I reached up and gently gathered a few loose strands of his hair that were hanging loose on the side of his face. “Whatever happens behind those doors… Know that I want to stay. I don’t want this night to end.”
“Neither do I.” The admission lingered between us. Slowly, almost hesitantly, he lifted our intertwined hands and kissed my knuckles. It was such a small gesture. But it made my heart race nonetheless.
“So…” I whispered.
“So…” He echoed.
“Will you open the door for me to actually let me in?” A crooked smile spread across his face, soft enough to make me smile too.
He pushed the door open. Warm light spilled across the room. Instead of walking in immediately, he looked at me. With his hand he gestured for me to enter. I stepped past him. The room was quiet. Candles were burning. Something the servants probably did every night.
It was the first time ever that I stepped into Zuko’s bedchamber. At first glance, the room was larger than I expected, but not in a showy way. The ceiling was high, supported by dark carved beams. The walls were rich with deep reds and golds, but softened by age. His bed was large. Dark bedding, soft and folded with careful symmetry. One side of the room opened to a balcony. The curtains were light and slightly sheer, so that the morning sun could naturally wake him up.
There were no excessive luxuries on display. I looked at shelves filled with books, some clearly worn at the edges. A low table covered neatly in stacked scrolls and half finished letters. His cloak draped a little carelessly over the back of a chair. There were portraits on the wall of his mother and her husband, of Kiyi, of Iroh. The room was fit for a Fire Lord, but it was also unmistakably Zuko’s. I turned slowly, taking it all in.
“So…” He stood still in front of the closed door. “This is where you hide.”
“Whenever I can.” A faint smile tugged at his lips.
“It suits you.” He raised his brows.
“It does?”
“It feels…” I searched for the right word. “It is peaceful.”
“It is probably the only room in the palace, where I can find some peace and quiet.” He reached his hands up and removed the headpiece from his hair. He placed it on a small table next to where he was standing. All of his long hair was now down.
He stood a few steps away from me and it looked like he was uncertain whether to cross the distance between us. I solved the problem for him. I took three quiet steps forward and I stopped close enough that our hands brushed together once more. His fingers immediately found mine. It was almost instinctively. We simply stood there for a moment, hand in hand, scanning the other’s face. We were smiling like we still couldn’t quite believe we were allowed to do this. He looked down at our hands, this thumb absentmindedly brushing over my knuckles.
“We don’t have to rush this.” I closed my eyes for just a moment, smiling. When I opened them, they met his. They were tender and soft.
“No, we don’t.” I whispered.
“We always have tomorrow.” His voice was gentle. “And every day after that.” He looked away from me, not really knowing where to look. My hand moved to his scarred cheek, guiding his eyes back to mine.
“Zuko…” I spoke his name softly. “I don’t think anyone could accuse us of rushing this.” The corner of my mouth lifted. “If anything, we have done quite the exact opposite.” My thumb slowly traced the outline of his scar. “It took us long enough to get here. I have spent so much time wondering what this would be like.” My voice grew quieter, as my eyes quickly darted over to his bed. “I don’t want to wait anymore.” He looked into my eyes. He was searching for something. Maybe he was looking for any signs of hesitation, of doubt.
“Neither do I.” His hand slipped away from mine, and moved to my waist. It was slow enough that I could have stepped away if I had wanted to. I didn’t. Instead I stepped closer. Our bodies against each other. While he rested his forehead on mine, he closed his eyes. His hot breath on my skin. When he opened his eyes again, they never left mine. “May I kiss you?” Even though he had now kissed me several times before, he asked permission again. The question was so unmistakably Zuko that my heart ached.
“You never have to ask me that again.” He smiled. His hand rose to cradle my cheek, his thumb brushing lightly across my skin. I melted into his touch. His lips found mine in a kiss that was as gentle as our very first kiss. There was no urgency, neither of us hurried. Then, the kiss deepened. I slightly rose onto my tiptoes to add a bit more pressure to our touch, silently asking for more. He answered without hesitation, bending down to meet me. My heels settled back on the floor as he adjusted to me.
Our lips never parted. My fingers slipped into his long loose hair. It was soft and silky, I was easily combing through the dark strands. Slowly, my hands wandered lower, tracing his shoulders. He had already discarded his shoulder mantle and chest armor back at his study before I had arrived, leaving only the crimson tunic and robes between my palms and the warmth of his skin. Even through the fabric I could feel his solid muscles, strong and defined. My hands moved to his chest. I wanted to feel every inch of him. Like his shoulders, his chest was steady and broad. Beneath my fingertips, his heartbeat was rapidly rising and his muscles tensed ever so slightly due to my touch.
His hands had remained around my waist, holding me close. But I wanted them everywhere on my body. I covered one of his hands with mine, guiding it upward until it rested on my breast. He froze. By putting some more pressure on my own hand, I made his press into the flesh through my tunic. My action caught him completely off guard. His breath hitched and a sharp gasp escaped him. The kiss broke as he leaned back just enough to look at me. A warm flush spread across his cheeks, climbing all the way to the tips of his ears.
I brushed a kiss against his sharp jawline, I lingered for a heartbeat before pressing another to the corner of his mouth. Then I found his lips once more. When I pulled away, our eyes met. I gave the smallest nod, my fingers settling once again at the back of his neck, threading through his hair.
Understanding slowly replaced hesitation in his gaze. His hand stayed in place, before the touch became firmer. His fingers kneaded my breast gently. He wasn’t rushing it. He was savoring the touch. We kept our eyes locked. Tension was building up inside me. My pulse was thundering.
He dipped down again. His lips on mine. The kiss was hungrier than before. I hummed as he licked over my bottom lip and whimpered the second his tongue went inside. Our tongues weren’t dancing, they weren’t fighting for dominance; they were exploring, tasting.
His hand rose from my chest to my throat, then up to my chin. Our breathing was heavy due to the kiss, due to the tension building up. The anticipation almost bursting. His thumb swiped over my lower lip, before he tilted my head back. His lips were back on my neck. It sent a shiver through me. He kissed open mouthed and more greedy than before. Every lingering kiss drew another quiet breath from my lips. I closed my eyes, my hands finding his shoulders once more. His tongue was tracing my pulse, which was beating so fast. Then he sucked lightly at my skin and I let out a soft moan.
Without even really thinking about it, my hands reached for the thin red belt around his waist. This time he didn’t freeze, but he continued to kiss my skin, moving up to my earlobe. I unfastened his belt. He sucked at my earlobe, for a moment I didn’t move. My hands rested on his waist. I was enjoying the sensation. Another moan escaped me, when his tongue wettened the sensitive skin. Then my arms wrapped around him, pulling one tucked end free of his silk black sash. I unwound the fabric from around his waist until it fell on the floor. His lips were no longer on any part of my skin. He moved just far enough away for him to watch what I was doing. My hand rose up and clutched at his robes. I met his eyes. Without hesitation I pushed them down his shoulders. His chest was falling and rising fast. His breathing uneven. For a moment I placed one hand over his heart. I felt his pulse. It was thundering, like it could break free from his chest at any moment. My gaze followed my hands as they moved to the hem of his tunic. I lightly tugged at the fabric, before I looked up. His eyes were darker than ever before. He slowly guided his arms upward. I moved his tunic along with his movements.
Over the years I had seen Zuko without a tunic before. But I never got to watch it, really look at it from up close. Without thinking, I closed the distance between us once more. My fingertips lightly brushed over the skin of his chest, they moved over his collarbone. A few old scars visible; marks of battles, of survival and of a life that had never really been gentle to him. His breath quickened as my fingers were tracing over his skin. I looked at him through my eyelashes. My core tightened when I met his darkened eyes once again. I felt the familiar warmth between my legs growing more and more. We were both trying to be patient, taking the time to explore every new sensation. My hands moved from his chest to my belt. I loosened it and dropped it on the floor. Then, I grabbed the hem of my tunic, ready to pull it up.
“No.” Zuko suddenly spoke. He placed his hands over mine as he guided them away from the fabric. “Let me.” He whispered. He gently held the him of my tunic for a moment, giving me time to change my mind before he carefully guided it up. I raised my hands in the air and he discarded my tunic onto the floor. Now it was his turn to look at me, to touch me. His eyes first met mine, until they slowly and deliberately trailed down. They lingered longer on my bare chest. His hand moved to cup one of my breasts. His touch was impossibly soft. Then he started kneading my breast. His eyes darted between my eyes and my bare chest. His thumb brushed over my already hardened nipple. I whimpered at the sensation. He did it again, before he was continuously drawing circles with his thumb over it. His other hand rested on the small of my back. He bowed his head down. He kissed my collarbone. My eyes fluttered shut as his mouth traveled farther down. He kissed one breast while continuing to knead the other and play with the nipple. His hand on my lower back trailed down to my ass. His large hand covered one cheek and he squeezed it. A surprised hum left my lips. Then, he sucked at the swell of my breast, tongue moving over my hard nipple. I moaned louder than I had intended to. He jerked his head up. He leaned back in and kissed me deep and longingly. His hand on my breast moved to my waist as he pulled my flush against him. My lower abdomen rested against his lower body. I could feel the clear outline of his bulge. The sensation made me involuntarily roll my hips against his body. Zuko whimpered. And within a heartbeat, he slightly squatted down, placed his arms around my ass cheeks and he picked me up. I gasped in surprise, but before I knew it my thighs were hoisted up and wrapped around his waist. He had picked me up as though it was nothing. His arms on my back, steadying me. I kissed him again; hungry and deep. He walked around the room until we reached his bed. He turned around and sat down on the edge. My knees dipped in the mattress and I sat on his lap. I pushed his long hair over his shoulder. My lips moved close to his ear.
“Now it is my turn.” I whispered. I sucked at his earlobe. He whimpered again as his hands once again settled on my ass cheeks. My fingers tangled in his hair. I tugged at it, making his head tilt backwards. He hissed sharply. My lips trailed downward, every kiss lingering a little longer than the last. Ever so often he squeezed my cheeks. My lips rested at the base of his throat, just above his collarbone. At first, I softly sucked his skin, but then harder and bolder. He moaned and squeezed one cheek harder. I continued leaving little marks on his skin. Ones that would be hidden underneath the high collar of his tunic, but I would know they were there.
Earlier I rolled my hips at him involuntarily, but now very deliberately and consciously I did it again. I could feel all of him. He twitched at the contact and Zuko groaned loudly. I was dripping myself. He stood up, his hands on my thighs and back. And then he quickly turned around and he gently laid me on his bed. Before he joined me, he grabbed one of my ankles. He took off the first shoe and then he moved to the other. He took off his own boots. And then he joined me on his bed. The mattress dipped under his weight. He crawled over me, one leg between my legs. He kissed my breasts again. His hair falling on my chest. His lips trailed down and stopped at the waistband of my trousers. He planted one last kiss, just below my belly button before he looked up.
“May I?”
“Please.” I whispered as I lifted my hips. He hooked his fingers underneath the waistband, gave me one last look to see if there was any hesitation in my gaze, and then he pulled them down. My panties were drenched by now. He kissed the wet patches with a smile on his face.
“How wet you are for me.” He whispered against the fabric. The vibrations of his voice to my core made me buck my hips lightly.
“Zuko…” I breathed out. “Please…” My heartbeat pounding just as badly as my core did. “Touch me.” That stirred something in him. A sense of desire he was finally freeing. He reached for my panties, I barely had the chance to lift my hips or they were already sliding down my legs. He threw them across the room. He moved upuntil our bare chests touched, one arm next to my face. He kissed my lips as his fingers brushed from my knee to my inner thigh. I opened my legs a little more, desperate for his touch I had waited so long for. His fingers hovered over my heat for a moment. “Please, Zuko.” I whimpered against his lips. His fingers dipped between my folds, feeling how wet I actually was for him. He hummed contentedly. His finger slipped in me with ease. Curling just right and touching the right spot immediately. Like his finger had been in me a thousand times before. I moaned against his lips, my hips buckling against his hand. His thumb worked on my clit, drawing circles over it. My head fell back into the mattress as another loud moan escaped me. Zuko’s lips never left me. His teeth grazing over my skin, his tongue dragging over it. He pushed in a second finger, opening my walls even more. My clit was throbbing at the sensation of his circling thumb. I arched my back. He pumped his fingers in and out of me in a steady rhythm, continuously curling right and hitting the right spot over and over again. I was panting into his shoulder, resisting the urge to bite his skin. So instead my fingers dug into his skin. His fingers moved in even farther, reaching deeper than before. He sped up as he silenced my broken whimpers against his own lips. It didn’t take long before I felt everything tensing up. My walls clenched tightly around his fingers.
“Good.” He whispered, his breathing heavy. “Let go.” His voice was low and rough. It was unlike anything I had ever heard from him. He sped up his movements even more, putting more pressure on my swollen clit; it was merciless. He kissed my lips again, swallowing all the sounds I was making. My body tensed up familiarly and then it released all of that built up tension. I moaned loudly against his lips. My legs were shaking. “Good girl.” Zuko didn’t stop. He slowed down his movements as he let me ride my release out. When he finally felt my body relax, his fingers slid out of me. They were coathed thickly. He glanced at his own fingers, before he brought them to his mouth; sucking them clean. I followed his movements, our eyes locked. He briefly shut his eyes as he tasted me on his fingers. Humming contentedly, before he kissed me. I tasted a familiar bitterness on his tongue.
Then, suddenly he moved away from me. I propped up, resting on my elbows. Watching his every move, as my breathing was steadying. He moved to the little table he had previously placed his headpiece on. He picked up a ribbon. He placed the piece of fabric between his teeth and moved his hands up, gathering all his hair together. I just looked at him as he secured a loose bun with the ribbon. I bit my lower lip at the sight. He moved closer again, standing still at the edge of the bed. I sat up and moved. My legs now resting over the edge, with Zuko standing between them. I looked up at him as I reached for the waistband of his trousers. He gave me a singular nod. His breathing hitched as I placed a kiss just below his bellybutton, just like he had done before discarding me of my trousers. I pulled both his trousers and his underwear down. His length sprung free as the fabrics moved down. It was then I learned that not every length is the same. Zuko’s was less thick but longer.
Before I could do anything he spoke in the same low and rough voice as earlier.
“Lay back down.” I moved and did exactly as he told me too. “Spread your legs.” His voice made me clench my walls again. He placed his knees between my open legs. He lowered his body and placed his hands on either side of my face. We never broke eye contact. He bent down and kissed me slowly and deeply. Then, he moved his hand to his length, guiding it towards my entrance.
“Wait.” My breath hitched. Suddenly I became aware of everything around me; of my fingers tightly curled into his sheets, of my chest rising and falling far heavier than before, of the spiked temperature in the room, of his eyes on me. I felt a wave of embarrassment wash over me again. I wanted this. I truly wanted him. All of him. But this was a new step for me.
“Is everything alright?” He asked with great concern. No longer were his eyes dark and laced with desire, but they were soft and filled with worry. “Are you okay?” For a moment I couldn’t speak. Words remained caught in my throat. “Are we moving too fast?”
“N-no.” A sound finally spilling out of me. “No. It is just that…” I bit my lower lip in hesitation. “I have never done this before.” The confession left me quietly. For a moment, I couldn’t look at him; feeling embarrassed and vulnerable. There was some confusion in his expression.
“I thought you and Aang…” I cut him off immediately.
“We never did… this.” The admission lingered between us for a moment before his slightly confused expression turned into something softer. His lips tugged up in a quiet smile. He seemed awfully pleased with this news, before he pushed that feeling away and became more serious and impossibly tender again. He caressed my cheek with sweet gentle swipes of his thumb.
“Do you want this?” He asked quietly and sincerely.
“Yes.” I met his eyes.
“Do you want this tonight?” I nodded my head.
“Yes.” There was no hesitation in my voice. His stare was intense. He was trying to see if there was even a flicker of hesitation in my expression. When he didn’t find any he spoke again.
“We can wait… I can wait.”
“I don’t want to wait.” I breathed out. “I want you.” He smiled faintly as he nodded slowly. “Do you want this?” I asked and his smile widened.
“Oh, Spirits… You have no idea how much I want this.” Then his face turned softer. “Are you sure?” I nodded and he nodded back in return. “I will go slow.” He whispered. “Give you time to adjust.” His thumb still brushing my cheek. Then his expression shifted as he briefly looked away from me. “I have understood that for girls the first time might hurt a bit in the beginning.” A short pause as he let the words linger. “So, I need you to tell me if it gets too much and you need me to stop. Okay?”
“Okay.” I nodded and swallowed deeply.
“Do you trust me?”
“I do.”
“Will you let me guide you through this?”
“I will.” A short pause. “Do you think I will like it?”
“Spirits...” A soft laugh escaped him. “I hope so.”
He lowered his body again, kissing me sweetly before he did anything else. I swiped my tongue over his lip and we instantly deepened the kiss again. One of his hands moved down again. But instead of placing it over his length, he moved it over my core again. He broke the kiss.
“I just want to feel how tight you are.” He spoke softly. One finger went in, slowly pushing in and out of me. My head fell back into a soft pillow as a whimper escaped me. Then, a second finger went in. I had already been soaking wet again. His two fingers worked to open me up again. His movements build up more and more tension within me. I clenched my walls around his fingers. “Not yet, dearest.” He whispered against my lips. I could have come just by hearing him say that; dearest.
He pulled his fingers out of me and grabbed his length. Again he guided it toward my core. He looked at me.
“Are you really sure?”
“I want you, Zuko.” I managed to say. He moved the tip of his throbbing length to my entrance. He rubbed it against my wet folds. It felt like it was begging to be granted access to the inside of my walls. As promised, he moved with deliberate slowness. He gradually moved forward until he withdrew a bit. The smallest of thrusts and afterward complete stillness just so to give me time to let my walls adjust to him. Every time he moved in a little bit farther, I whimpered. Not necessarily in pain, but more out of pleasure. I hoped every time he moved in farther, that more would follow. One hand was wrapped around his bicep and the other was clutching the sheets. I closed my eyes as I moaned, tightening my grip on his arm.
“Are you okay?” He froze. I opened my eyes again.
“Y-yes. Please move.” I sounded desperate, but I didn’t care. I needed more. I slightly rocked my hips against him. He responded immediately. This time, he pushed in even more. It was still careful, but his eyes were telling me a whole other story. They were as dark as they were before. I buckled my hips desperately this time. He looked down at where our bodies were connected before we locked eyes again. His tongue licked his mouth before he bit down on his lower lip. I could see him fighting to hold on to the last thread of his restraint. I dug my fingers in his shoulders, pushing his body closer to mine. I kissed him, hungerly. My hands moved to his hips and I tried to pull him in even closer. He broke the kiss and looked at me. “Please…” I moaned as he buried himself deeper into me. “Stop... Being… Gentle.” I managed to finally say the words between his slow thrusts. While I spoke the words, my eyes never left his.
“Are you sure?”
“Yes!” Then, I could see all signs of restraint slipping away from him. And with one thrust, deep and ferocious, he had me screaming out his name. He pushed in and out of me faster now. With smooth movements of his hips he kept pumping into me. Moans were leaving my lips. He dipped his head to smother my sounds. His tongue barged in, no longer asking permission to enter but demanding it.
“Spirits…” He breathed out between his own moans. “You feel so good.” He sped up even more. The stronger his thrusts became, the more I rolled my hips against him. And the longer he pumped into me, the more strands of hair escaped his loose bun.
Instinctively, I wrapped my legs around his waist. My legs pulled him closer, making sure he could enter me as deeply as he could. And immediately, I moaned louder as he hit the right spot over and over again. He moved in so deep I could feel his tip kissing my cervix. I clenched my walls tightly around his length. I hit the pillow hard as I rolled my eyes in my head. My fingers dug even farther into his skin, my nails grazing his skin. He hissed against my lips. My hands then traced his shoulders, warm skin slick with sweat beneath my touch. His mouth left mine and moved to the swell of my breast, sucking at the sensitive skin around my nipple. It added another layer of pleasure. He was making his way back up again, leaving wet kisses all the way to my ear. All the while his quick thrusts were making me feel weak. My legs started losing their strength as they started shaking. My breath kept escaping me. A wave of overwhelming pleasure coiled deep in my stomach, tightening with every passing moment as he started putting pressure on my clit. His thumb back to making circular movements.
“Ahhhh…” I whined loudly. “Zuko… I-I…”
“I have got you.” He whispered next to my ear, fanning his hot heavy breath on my skin. “Come for me.”
After a few more strong, directed deep pushes my release hit me like a physical blow. My entire body went rigid as I clung onto him. My eyes rolled back in my head. My fingers dug into the muscles of his shoulders as I came apart. My legs left his waist, they were shaking on the mattress. Pleasure swept over me in relentless waves, leaving me breathless and trembling beneath him. He tried to hold on long enough to let me ride out my own release, before his hit him. But I kept clenching around him so intensely that not long after he had to pull out competently. Leaving me feeling incredibly empty. He reached his own release, one he had held onto for so long. It hit him ferociously hard. He moaned out my name while long strands of thick white cum covered my stomach and breasts. He buried his face in the crook of my neck, his warm breath fanning across my skin as we both tried to steady our breathing. Our uneven breaths mingling in the quiet bedroom. He rolled over onto his back and laid next to me. He turned his head to face me. I did the same and we locked eyes. Most of his hair hung loose again, spilling across the pillow in untamed strands. Beads of sweat shimmered on his forehead, droplets gathering at his temples. His chest was rising and falling in rapid motions. Neither of us spoke for a moment. We simply looked at one another. I was trying to memorise the moment, the look of him after he had come undone. A smile spread across my face before I even realised it, but I made no effort to hide it. He smiled warmly in return. The moment carried a quiet tenderness that made my heart beat faster.
“What was amazing.” The words barely left my mouth. My breathing still unsteady. He let out a quiet breathless laugh. I could see a playful flicker in his eyes. I turned to my side, facing him completely.
“I was hoping you would say that.” He remained silent for a moment, then his eyes softened with worry. “Did I hurt you?”
“No.” I shook my head. “No, you didn’t.” His expression grew impossibly gentle as relief washed through him.
“I am so glad to hear that.” He placed his arm over me and pulled my body closer to him. He placed a tender kiss on my forehead. The hand that rested on my side started tracing slow circles across my skin. A faint blush returned to his cheeks. “It really was amazing.” He said as he locked eyes with mine. For a brief moment his eyes darted to my bare chest and his eyes widened.
“What?” I asked him.
“I am so sorry.” He quickly moved away from me. “One second.” He got up and disappeared in the adjacent bathroom. He returned with a warm damp cloth. “I made a complete mess of you.” I looked down at the white strands. Then I looked back at him. He looked flustered and awkward before he carefully moved the cloth over my chest and my stomach, removing every evidence of him on my body.
“Thank you.” I smiled at him. He gave me a shy smile in return and it softened his features. For a short moment he went back to the bathroom, discarding the cloth. In the meantime I had slipped underneath the silk sheets. He did the same when he returned.
As though it was the most natural thing in the world, he pulled me close once more. Then, he stretched out on his back and lifted his arm as a silent invitation. I settled against him, resting my head on his chest. Only then did I truly realise how warm his skin was beneath my cheek, as I listened to the steady beating of his heart. His hand rested on my waist, its heat seeping through me until I felt myself melt against him.
For a long moment, neither of us spoke. I traced idle circles over his skin before lifting my eyes to meet his, chin resting on the broad chest. He still had the ribbon in his hair, but it only held together a small section of it. Most of it had escaped. I raised my hand to his face. Smiling to myself as I gathered a few loose strands of his long dark hair and tucked it carefully behind his ear.
“Next time…” I murmured. “You really need to secure your hair better. It escaped the ribbon almost completely.”
“Next time?” His brows arched with unmistakable satisfaction and a knowing smile curved his lips.
“Yes. Next time.” I lifted myself onto one elbow so I could look at him properly, my other hand still resting over his heart. “Because I very much would like to do this again.” His smile deepened, softer now rather than triumphant.
“So would I.”
“You better.” I teased. “It would be very cruel of you to introduce me to all of this…” I let my fingers brush lightly over his muscles. “...only for it to happen once.”
“Oh…” He leaned forward and planted a lingering kiss on my lips. It was slow, as though neither of us wanted the contact to end. When he finally drew back, he remained close enough that his breath still brushed against my skin. Something mischievous flickered in his eyes. “But I can be very cruel.”
“Even to me?”
“Even to you.” He murmured against my lips, amusement seeping through his voice. “But only ever in our bedchamber.”
“Our bedchamber?” I echoed, unable to hide the smile tugging at my lips.
“Well…” His fingertips skimmed lazily along my side. “This room is mine.” He paused, his expression softened as all the teasing slipped away. “But now, it is yours as well.” He said quietly.
“So you are willing to give up the one place where you can find some peace and quiet?”
“No.” A faint smile touched his lips as his fingers found mine. “Not give up.” His thumb brushed gently across my knuckles. “I will share it with you.” His gaze lingered on mine, warm and soft. He held my hand a little tighter. “I told you I would share everything with you. And that means not just my fears, doubts, feelings or the thoughts I keep hidden from everyone else. It also means I will share everything I have.” I couldn’t help but smile as warmth settled in my chest. He spoke with so much certainty.
“I promise I will do the same.” My admission quiet. “I just don’t have as much to give as you.” He quickly shook his head in disagreement.
“You already gave me more than I ever dared hope for.” His hand rose to cradle my cheek, his touch impossibly gentle. “You gave me your trust. You gave me your heart.” His thumb brushed tenderly across my skin. “I promise I will cherish them and keep them safe for as long as you will let me.” His words settled somewhere deep inside me. My throat tightened, making it impossible to say anything in return. So instead of answering him, I cupped his cheek and leaned in. I brushed my lips softly against his. The kiss was slow and tender, carrying everything I couldn’t express with words. He gently tightened his grip around my waist. He didn’t pull me closer; he simply held me with the quiet certainty of someone who would never push me away again. When I drew back, he was smiling. First it was soft, but then it turned into something more dangerous. “I will make you another promise.” His voice dropped lower. “I promise there will be a next time. And a time after that. And countless more. Because I have no intention of this happening only once.”
“I will hold you to that.” I murmured. “I will hold you to both of your promises.” I smiled as I laid my head back on his chest. As my body relaxed completely against him, my eyelids grew heavier.
“Please do.” He replied softly. A moment later, I felt his lips brush against the top of my head; the touch was lingering, warm and unhurried. “Sweet dreams, Y/N.”
