In one line, I love you. Part 2
A series where I build off one line from fics that I love, to appreciate the writers I adore in the only way I can. <3
“In this moment all he truly knew were her small pieces...”
- sky falling down by antarcticas ( @antarcticasx )
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The ocean wasn’t terrible, but it drowned him nonetheless. First she was powerful, a crashing wave of ice and snow. Then she was forgiving, like a healing spring. Then she was a thunderstorm and he knew he wasn’t ready.
Zuko caught lightning for her, because what else could he do?
Still, knowing her by every small piece was like drinking the oceans with a spoon.
“You’re looking pensive.” Katara said as she settled into the seat across from him.
Rousing, Zuko looked up and smiled at her. She raised her eyebrows as she lifted her teacup to take a sip, prompting him.
“How long would it take to drink an ocean?” He asked.
“Saltwater will kill you Zuko.” Katara replied blandly, speaking over the edge of her cup.
“I’m trying to be poetic.” He said.
“For what? Dumb ways to die?” Katara shook her head and set down her tea. “Don’t drink saltwater.”
Zuko laughed, but Katara looked neither convinced nor amused.
“If one were able to stomach it,” Zuko paused as Katara rolled her eyes. “How long would it take to drink an ocean?”
Heaving an exasperated sigh, Katara turned in her seat to look out at the garden.
“In that impossible situation, it couldn’t be done. A person could spend their whole life trying and never get anywhere.” She replied.
Zuko didn’t reply right away. He turned as well, looking at what Katara was watching.
Three children ran about on the grass, waving sticks that they were absolutely not supposed to have. The smallest of them fell and the older two stopped, arms still raised and holding sticks, as they looked at their compatriot.
“Lu Ten honey, are you okay?” Katara called.
“He’s fine mama.” One of the standing children yelled back.
“I didn’t ask you Kya.” Katara retorted.
Lu Ten got up and, after wiping his knees, started to wail while running to the table.
“I think I could spend a lifetime trying.” Zuko finally remarked as Lu Ten got closer.
Katara swiveled her head around to glare at him.
“Do not drink saltwater Zuko.” She stated firmly.
Standing up, Zuko put his hands on her shoulders and leaned in just as Lu Ten barreled into Katara’s knees.
“Little sips.” He said and kissed her cheek. He could feel her smile.
“I’ll drink you up in a hundred thousand little sips.” He murmured and Katara swatted at him.
“Not around the children!” She said, but her voice held the current of laughter.
Walking around her, Zuko picked up Lu Ten and tossed him in the air. He was giggling before Zuko caught him again.
“Shall we go play with your brother and sister?” He asked Lu Ten, who nodded furiously.
“Lead the charge!” Zuko said and Lu Ten held out his tiny fist, roaring as Zuko started to run.
He knew every little piece.
@zkfanworkweek so uhm there’s gonna be more of these k thnx bye
