Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I printed my name at the top of my essay, rushed but still readable. I quickly shoved it into my backpack, which I then stuffed in my closet.

FINALLY….. I thought, sighing. I had finished my homework after three hours of working on the same paper.

Exhausted, I plopped down on the couch and turned on the TV. Scrolling through my Netflix library, nothing looked worthy of my free time except for a general classic: Avatar the Last Airbender.

Smiling, I resumed the episode I started in between work the day prior. I didn’t make much progress, just barely finishing the first one.

Still, I leaned back into my corner of the couch as I waited for the show to play. A minute passed, then two, and I was starting to get frustrated.

Groaning, I desperately tried anything that would make it load faster.

Suddenly, I heard a strange voice coming from the TV. Walking up to it, I tapped the screen lightly.

Did it freeze with the sound still playing?

The whispering voices continued, pestering me with their incoherent chatter.

I sighed sadly and placed my palm on my probably dead TV as a form of mourning. But when I tried to pull back, it was as if my hand was glued to the screen.

I tugged on my hand, trying to separate from the screen to no avail.

Then, I got an idea.

Instead of pulling away from it, I tried pushing my palm into the screen. Sure enough, my hand melted into the TV all the way down to my wrist.

With a gasp, I curiously (and stupidly) pushed it further. My body, following my entire right arm, was slowly being absorbed in seconds.

My head being the last to go, probably the scariest part of the whole ordeal. I squeezed my eyes shut in anticipation, readying myself for whatever came next.

Was it some sick joke? Cruel revenge from my parents for using their Netflix account? Or maybe from my landlord who has it out for me.

Suddenly, my entire body dropped in temperature. I was in freezing water. I tried opening my eyes, but the salt stung. Trying not to inhale the water, I kicked my legs in an attempt to reach the surface.

I coughed and sputtered, poking my head out of the water. I checked my surroundings, seeing nothing but water and ice caps all around me.

How did I get here?

Only when I fully turned around did I see the hull of a battleship, made of shiny black metal and puffing smog.

I stared at it for a while, but recognized the flag on the top of the ship.

Wait is that…

The familiar symbol, a black flame on a red flag. It was a Fire Nation ship.

No way…

Interrupting my thoughts, a man yelled at me from the ship, barely audible from where I was in the water. He threw down a ladder from the side of the ship.

Hesitant, I swam over and shakily climbed up the ladder. When I reached the top I swung my leg over the railing and fell back into the deck.

A boy who looked around my age stood in front of me, a scowl on his face and a ponytail in his hair.

My jaw dropped, immediately recognizing him.

“What business do you have on my ship? How did you get here? Are you from the water tribe?” He demanded, bombarding me with questions that made my head spin.

I sat up, my teeth chattering, “H-Hold on! One question at a time, man! I think my brain is literally frozen.” I shivered.

He stepped toward me, “I demand that you tell me who you are!” He shouted.

I held my hands up, shielding myself from the heat that radiating from his closed fist.

Yep, definitely Zuko, if that horrid ponytail didn’t already give it away…

“Okay, okay!” I sighed tiredly, “My name is Robin, and I don’t know how I got here. But I’m not a bender.”

Zuko narrowed his eyes at me, grabbing my wrist and hauling me off the deck.

“Hey, wait!” I shouted in protest.

He dragged me down the hallway, and threw me into a room.

“Stay here!” He shouted angrily, locking the door behind him and going who knows where.

What the hell…

I took a look around the room, noticing the small cot in the middle of the floor and the desk pushed up against the opposite wall to the door. The place was decorated with Fire Nation flags, and on one wall two dual swords were displayed.

After a moment of realization, I figured I was in Zuko’s personal chambers. I couldn’t stop the smug smile that dawned on my face at the situation, but quickly disappeared as I shook my head.

Get your head out of the gutter, start thinking about what you’re gonna do! You could possibly be in— no you are in the Avatar universe right now…What is going on???

Questions flooded my brain, but one in particular repeated in my head. How was I supposed to explain my situation? I could just lie, obviously, but what I was supposed to say was a whole other problem.

My thoughts halted as the door swung back open, and I realized I didn’t know how long I had been spacing out.

Zuko stomped through the door, a shorter and much older man in Fire nation robes following behind him.

Iroh! I thought, smiling at the man who gave me a confused look in return.

Zuko circled me, examining me carefully. He looked at my odd attire; Soaking linen pants and a plain lavender crew neck.

“So,” he said, cautiousness evident in his tone. “Are you a waterbender?” He asked.

“Uh, no.” I shook my head.

“What were you doing in the ocean?”

“I dunno…” I shrugged, just as confused as I assumed he was.

“You don’t know? What do you mean you don’t know? Who are you?” Zuko stopped in front of me, starting to get frustrated with my lack of information.

Iroh placed a hand on his shoulder, presumably to calm him down.

I scratched my cheek, “Well, my name is Robin. I don’t know how I got here, and I am a…” I thought for a moment, trying to figure out my story.

“..seer.” I decided, nodding as I convinced myself of the lie.

Zuko scoffed incredulously, “A seer? What proof do you have of this unbelievable explanation?”

“I can tell you where the Avatar is…”

I remembered when I was on the deck, the ship wasn’t moving and it hadn’t been for a while. One side of it was covered in snow. An avalanche, I thought, like the one that Aang caused after he escaped Zuko’s ship.

With that information, I could guess I was somewhere between the second and third episode of season one.

Zuko’s eyes widened at my statement, seemingly out of shock and a glimmer of hope.

Iroh patted his back reassuringly, “I think what this woman says is true, Nephew. She could aid you on your journey to find the Avatar.” He nodded.

My heart warmed at his statement, “Aw, thanks Iroh.”

“How do you know my name?” He asked, smiling slightly.

I paled, “Uh, I’m a seer remember? I’ve already seen this moment happening.” I chuckled nervously.

Iroh nodded, seemingly convinced.

“Anyways,” I started, “If you would be so kind as to give me decent living, I could easily help you find the Avatar. Once you get your ship out of the ice, I mean.”

Zuko narrowed his eyes at me, turning to his uncle, “Uncle, show her to a spare room.” He stated more than asked, leaving out of the room.

Iroh and I made eye contact, staring for a moment before lightly chuckling at his nephew.

“Nice to meet you, sir.” I bowed respectfully.

“Iroh is just fine, and there’s no need to bow.” He smiled warmly, before walking to the door.

“Before I show you to a room, would you like to play my favorite game with me?” Iroh asked.

My eyes brightened, “Pai Sho?” I asked excitedly.

Iroh chuckled wholeheartedly, “Yes, right this way…” He paused, not sure how to address me.

“Robin,” I smiled. “Call me Robin.”

Chapter Text

I woke up the next morning, dazed and drenched in sweat. I rarely get a good nights sleep so it wasn’t a surprise.

Pai Sho games were held on the deck around a campfire with music. After Iroh taught me the basics, I held my own against some crew mates in the unfamiliar game. Iroh still beat me about 5 times before I got the hang of it though.

The night ended in a blur, with Iroh giving me directions to my room, and then tapping out the moment my head hit the pillow.

Now, as I wake up in the new room, a small stack of folded clothing lay beside the small bed.

I sat up slowly, taking the fine cloth into my hands and laying them out on the mat. Flawlessly sewn silk made red low-waisted harem pants and a white backless halter top. I stared at the beautiful Fire Nation clothing in awe, they were obviously handmade from expensive material.

With the shirt and pants were (I assumed) traditional undergarments that mainly consisted of wrapped white cloth.

Excitedly, I stripped and put on the new outfit. The silk was soft against my skin, and the clothing was flattering. The pants accentuated my wider hips, while the top hugged my small waist and gave me more shape around my chest. The colors worked well with my freckled ivory skin and strawberry blonde hair.

Feeling more chipper than usual, most likely from the wardrobe change, I walked out of my room and made my way to the hull of the ship. Iroh sat on a small table on the deck, seated on a cushion while Zuko stood with a telescope looking out at sea.

We were no longer stuck in the avalanche, and with an (extremely) damaged ship, set out to a Fire Nation dock for repairs.

I sat down at the table with Iroh, bowing my head to him slightly, “Thank you for the lovely clothes, they’re beautiful.” I smiled.

He returned my smile and handed me a cup of tea, “Here, my dear, Ginseng tea.”

“Your favorite?” I remembered, sipping the tea.

“Yes, it is…” His eyes widened. “However, as for your clothes, I’m afraid they aren’t from me.”

I tilted my head slightly, confused. If not him then who…?

My gaze landed on Zuko still standing near the railing of the ship, my face reddening at the thought of the considerate gift, something I didn’t think he was capable of— at least not so early in the show.

Did he really go through the trouble to get me new clothes? I pushed the thought to the back of my head, deciding not to dwell on it.

Suddenly, Zuko shouted, “We’re about to dock, get ready!” He ordered the crew.

The ship whistled, dark smog pumping from the engine. Stopping at the shore, the crew opened up the ship to ready Zuko’s exit.

I stood awkwardly, not knowing whether or not I should leave with the crew.

“Hey!” A voice erupted from behind me.

I turned, finding Zuko walking towards me with a scowl.

“What are you doing just standing there?! We’re docked, get with the crew!” He shouted.

I sputtered at his aggressiveness, biting my tongue to stop the insult bubbling in my throat. Shaking my head slightly, I walked towards the crew and away from Zuko.

Be nice Robin….He’s just a kid. Well, technically we’re the same age— but he is for sure not as emotionally intelligent in the early seasons.

I chuckled lightly at the irony of my words, and instead focused on assessing my surroundings. The dock was a dark wood color, everything around it blanketed in a warm reddish hue from the sunset. Usually a calming sight, was instead no short of intimidating as the moon started to rise on the opposite horizon.

A man walked along the dock, approaching the Prince and his uncle as I stayed slightly behind them, away from the crew.

I immediately recognized him by the scowl he wore and the dark sideburns that framed his condescending stare. I caught my jaw before it could go slack, staring a little too intently at Captain— er, Commander Zhao in front of me.

His gaze snapped to mine, looking me over quickly with expected arrogance, before addressing the two men in front of him.

“Prince Zuko,” He spoke.

“Captain Zhao..” Zuko sneered.

“It’s Commander, now.” He stated, leaning in to meet his eyes with a smirk.

Zhao turned to Iroh, “And General Iroh, great hero of our nation.” He bowed slightly as he addressed the man with a more neutral demeanor.

“Retired General.” Iroh responded, respectfully bowing back.

Zhao lifts his head, turning to me as he raises an eyebrow, “And you are?” He asks taking a step towards me.

My nose scrunches up slightly in disgust, “I uh—“

Before I can respond, Zuko puts himself between us, saying sharply, “She’s nobody, just a personal servant to my uncle. Pay her no mind.”

I frown and my face twists tighter as I stare at his shoulders that block my view.

Personal servant? Really?

Zhao narrows his eyes, looking over Zuko’s frame to spare a glance at me. I almost sigh in relief when he starts talking again.

“Well,” Zhao shakes his head, “The Fire Lord’s brother and son are welcome guests anytime, what brings you to our harbor?”

I ignore his failure to address me, but it didn’t matter because in a few episodes or so he won’t be around anyway.

“Our ship is being repaired,” Iroh explains, pointing to the absolutely wrecked ship behind him.

“That’s quite a bit of damage.”

Zuko tenses slightly, “Yes, you wouldn’t believe what happened. Uncle, tell Commander Zhao what happened.”

Iroh blinks, gaping. He quickly recovers from his shock and bumps my shoulder where I stand beside him, “It seems I can’t recall….Robin, please tell Commander Zhao what happened.”

I blinked, my heartbeat stopping for a moment as I tried to think of an answer. What was it that Iroh had said in the show? Zhao’s eyes bore into mine as he awaited my answer.

Clearing my throat, I summoned whatever confidence I had left, “You see, Commander, we experienced an unfortunate interference in our journey by an Earth Kingdom ship. Offensive action was taken to capture it, but we steered straight into a landform in our haste.”

Oh my god what a bullshit explanation—

Zhao narrowed his eyes at me, smirking. I tensed, thinking he saw through the obvious lie. He stayed silent for a moment too long and I felt the hair stand on the nape of my neck.

“I see,” He finally said, turning his back to us and walking slowly. “Please join me to tell all the thrilling details.”

Motherfu—

Zuko’s eyebrows furrowed in distaste, “We need our ship repaired as soon as p—“ He started, but Iroh interrupted by placing a hand on the princes chest.

“We would be honored to join you, Commander. Do you have Ginseng Tea? It’s my favorite.” Iroh happily followed after Zhao, speeding up to walk beside him.

I slowly started to walk myself, Zuko staying still for a moment before he too followed with an angry grunt.

Chapter Text

Robin was slowly coming to the realization that Zhao was really not a good guy. She knew this already, obviously, but his greed still shocked her no matter how many times she witnessed it on her TV.

She sat in a small room at a small table, Zuko and Iroh at each side. The atmosphere was thick. At least as thick as Zhao’s sideburns.

He stood next to a map, explaining how the Fire Nation would finally conquer the Earth Kingdom.

“And by year’s end, the Earth Kingdom Capital will be under our rule. The Fire Lord will finally claim victory in this war.” He spoke with conviction.

Yeah, as if that’ll ever happen….

Zuko stared at the floor, eyebrows furrowed, “If my father thinks the rest of the work will follow him willingly, then he is a fool.”

Robin pushed down the giggle rising in her throat, glancing at Zhao through the corner of her eye.

Zhao raised his eyebrow at the Prince. “Two years at sea have done little to temper your tongue.”

With a condescending smile, he then asked, “So, how’s your search for the avatar going?”

“We haven’t found him yet.” Zuko closed his eyes momentarily, keeping his voice steady as he lied.

Zhao almost laughed, “Did you really expect to? The avatar died a hundred years ago, along with the rest of the airbenders.” Zhao paused, an evil smirk shown on his face. “Unless, you’ve found some evidence to believe that the avatar is alive.”

“No, nothing.”

Robin closed her eyes, leaning back into her chair and suppressing the smile forming on her lips at the fact that the avatar was alive. Obviously that information didn’t give her the same hope as the other nations, but it was comforting nonetheless.

“Prince Zuko,” Zhao sighed. “The avatar is the only one who can stop the Fire nation from winning this war. If you have an ounce of loyalty left, you’ll tell me what you found.”

“I haven’t found anything.” Zuko clenched his jaw. “It’s like you said, the avatar probably died a long time ago.”

Robin frowned, sparing a glance at Iroh across the room. He offered her a small smile in reassurance.

Zuko stood stiffly, “Come on, we’re leaving.”

Before Zuko could make his way through the door, two soldiers blocked him with their spears.

Another soldier went to Zhao’s side, “Commander, we interrogated the crew as you instructed. They confirmed Prince Zuko had the avatar in custody, but let him escape.” He turned, sparing a glance in Robin’s direction. “They also informed us that the girl isn’t who she says she is.”

Robin’s heart beat loud in her ears, her mouth slightly agape in shock.

“Now remind me,” Zhao kept his back turned toward us. “How exactly was your ship damaged?”

Neither Iroh nor Zuko could see the dark look adorning the Commanders face, but Robin knew what he was planning. She knew Zhao was planning to kill Aang.

Well shit…

…

“So,” Zhao began, as he paced in front of the three. “A twelve-year-old boy bested you and your firebenders. You’re more pathetic than I thought.”

Zuko scowled. “I underestimated him once, but it will not happen again.”

Zhao scoffed, “No it will not. Because you won’t have a second chance.”

“Commander Zhao, I’ve been hunting the avatar for two years, and I—!”

“And you failed!” Zhao cut him off, cutting the air in front of the three with fire.

Robin leaned back, narrowly avoiding the heat of the flame as Zhao continued his monologue.

“Capturing the avatar,” he explained, “Is too important to leave in a teenager’s hands.”

Robin raised an eyebrow at him.

What’s with this guy and hating kids..?

“He’s mine now.” Zhao sneered.

Zuko lunged at him, immediately being held back by the guards behind him. He huffed, struggling in their hold.

“Keep them here.” Zhao turned, leaving the room.

Zuko kicked over the small tea table that was sitting in front of him, breaking it. Robin huffed in exasperation, looking to Iroh.

“More tea, please.” Iroh grinned.

…

Robin sat on a cushion on the floor, tapping her fingers against her crossed legs as she thought.

If we’re being intimidated slash interrogated by Zhao right now, then the Gaang should be in the Southern Air Temple right about now…

Robin gasped softly, realizing that Aang would soon find out about monk Gyatso, if he hasn’t already.

Iroh and Zuko looked at her sad expression then at each other, confused.

The curtain to the Fire Nation tent opened, and in walked Zhao, who stopped in front of the three to speak.

“My search party is ready.” He spoke. “Once I’m out to sea, my guards will escort you back to your ship and you will be free to go.”

Zuko scoffed, “Why? Are you worried I’m going to try and stop you?”

Zhao laughed humorlessly, “You, stop me? Impossible!”

“Don’t underestimate me, Zhao!” Zuko snapped, standing from his seat. “I will capture the avatar before you!”

“Zuko, that’s enough!” Iroh stood as well.

Robin’s frown deepened as she watched the immature men (minus Iroh) argue.

“You can’t compete with me. I have hundreds of warships under my command. And you?” Zhao said, “You’re just a banished prince. No home, no allies.”

Zhao’s eyes closed momentarily as he scowled, “Your own father doesn’t even want you.”

Robin audibly gasped next to Iroh, who held her by her shoulder comfortingly.

Oh damn—

“You’re wrong!” Zuko shouted, “Once I deliver the avatar to my father, he will welcome me home with honor and restore my rightful place on the throne.”

If only, the show would’ve ended at season one…

“If you father really wanted you home, he would’ve let you return by now. Avatar or no avatar. But in his eyes you are a failure, and a disgrace to the Fire Nation.”

“That’s not true!” Zuko hissed.

“You have the scar to prove it.”

Robin covered her mouth in shock, obviously she remembered the conversation, but witnessing their heated words left a bitter taste in her mouth. She felt bad for Zuko, even though he wasn’t as…..emotionally developed in the earlier seasons. He still had a heart, and it was still broken.

Zuko screamed at Zhao, “Maybe you’d like one to match!”

“Is that a challenge?” Zhao smirked.

“An Agni Kai!” Zuko demanded, “At sunset!”

“Very well, it’s a shame your father won’t be here to watch me humiliate you. I guess your uncle and his so called ‘personal servant’ will do.” Zhao chuckled, walking out of the tent.

Robin gaped, watching him walk out of the tent with a proud smirk on his face. Finally turning to Zuko, she saw him glaring at Zhao’s retreating form.

“Prince Zuko, have you forgotten what happened the last time you dueled a master?” Iroh asked, worried for his nephew.

“I will never forget.” Zuko said.

He turned around, grabbing Robin by her forearm and tugging her roughly toward him so they were nose-to-nose.

“And you,” He spoke, his brown eyes boring into her widening ones, “Will lead me to the avatar as soon as I win this duel.”

Chapter Text

How the hell did they set up an arena on such short notice?

I stood outside in the cold, Iroh and Zuko walking in front of me toward the middle of the huge area, outlined by thick walls.

I guess you can get anything done if you have power…

I saw Zhao, standing at the opposite end of the arena facing toward us. He was wearing red harem pants and an equally red vest, matching with Zuko.

He smirked once he noticed us walking in. “Good luck, prince Zuko, you’ll need it.”

I rolled my eyes at him, mimicking his words in a childlike manner as I watched Zuko huff.

He readied himself for the fight, crouching down parallel to Zhao with his back turned. I willed myself to not stare at his exposed chest or arms.

Good Lord, give me strength

Iroh stood in front of him. “Remember your firebending basics, Prince Zuko. They are your greatest weapons.”

“I agree.” I nodded. “I have a sneaking suspicion that Zhao isn’t one to have a good grasp on simpler moves. He seems pretty flashy.”

Zuko exhaled deeply, “Either way, I refuse to let him win.” He stood, shedding his vest and revealing his toned back.

Damn…

Zhao did the same, turning toward Zuko and scowling, “This will be over quickly.”

As they got into matching stances, the sunset turned a beautiful shade of orange.

Wow, what a dramatic lighting. How cinematic. I giggled.

Zuko released several harsh blasts of fire in Zhao’s direction as he dodged each one and diffused the last with a clean block.

Zuko panted slightly, twisting his body around in a kick and sending another wave of fire at Zhao.

As they fought, it seemed like none of Zuko’s moves were effective. I held my breath, even though I already knew the outcome of the duel, it still made me slightly nervous.

“Your basics, Zuko!” Iroh shouted from beside me, “Break his root!”

Zhao stepped forward, sending a blast of fire toward Zuko. Another step, another blast. Another step, another blast. Until Zuko was thrown back onto the ground harshly, unable to block the steady wave of fire.

He groaned, sitting up on his elbows as Zhao towered over him, ready to deliver the final strike.

Come on, Zuko, come on… I cheered in my head.

Zuko twisted his body out from under Zhao’s fist right as he released fire. He swiftly swept Zhao’s feet out from under him, causing him to stumble back as Zuko advanced.

“Yay! Go Zuko!” I clapped lightly at him getting the upper hand.

Iroh, put his hand on my shoulder to gently silence me, but nonetheless sported a proud grin for his nephew.

Zuko kicked Zhao with fire, sending him tumbling on the ground as he stood over him. He glared sharply, fist ready over Zhao’s face.

“Do it!” Zhao insisted.

Zuko grunted, instead releasing fire next to Zhao’s face, scorching the ground.

Zhao sat up, opening his eyes. “That’s it? Your father raised a coward.”

Zuko scowled, glowering down at his opponent, “Next time you get in my way, I promise, I won’t hold back.” He declared, turning his back on Zhao and walking toward Iroh and I.

As expected, Zhao released fire in a kick just as Zuko’s back was turned, thankfully being caught by Iroh before the attack met its target.

Iroh pushed Zhao backward by his foot, addressing the quickly advancing Prince begin him.

“No, Prince Zuko!  Do not taint your victory.” Iroh then turns to Zhao, “So this is how the great commander Zhao acts in defeat? Disgraceful. Even in exile, my nephew is more honorable than you.”

Zuko looked at Iroh in shock at his statement.

“Thanks again for the tea. It was delicious.” Iroh finally said, turning away.

I turned to Zhao as I started to walk out as well, sticking my tongue out at him indignantly.

As we made our way out of the arena, the sun finally dipped below the horizon, casting a twilight glow across us.

Zuko casted a glance at Iroh, “…Did you really mean that, uncle?” He asked softly.

“Of course,” Iroh grinned cheekily, “I told you ginseng tea is my favorite.”

A soft smile played on Zuko’s lips as he shook his head, leading the way back to the ship.

…

I sat on my futon back at the ship, staring at the ceiling and contemplating my next move.

If I continue with this seer bullshit for much longer, I could probably get away with knowing certain things AND help progress the plot faster. But what should I share? What should I not share? And also are there even seers in this world— how does that work??

I groaned in frustration, rubbing my eyes tiredly. Just as I was about to give up and call it a night, my door practically flew off the hinges as Zuko came marching into my room, Iroh close behind him.

“I—“ I sat up on my elbows, baffled at the sudden intrusion. “—Yes?? Do you need something??”

I looked over his attire, dressed in a long open robe and loose garments underneath. It was odd seeing him in something casual, rather than traditional battle uniforms.

Zuko stopped in front of my bed, huffing. Iroh stood beside him, looking at me apologetically.

“I need you to tell me where the Avatar is, now !” Zuko shouted impatiently.

“Damn! Okay— Jeez, no need to break down the door.” I grumbled, the bags under my eyes seemed to get deeper as I frowned.

God, I hate boats

I stood up, lethargically, and walked out of the door to my room. Turning behind me, I looked back at Zuko and Iroh still standing in the doorway.

“Well? Aren’t you gonna show me where the planning room is? Er— the communications room? I don’t care, just show me to the maps.” I rolled my eyes, sighing.

Zuko lead me to the chart room, I found out it was called, and placed a large map of the known world (at least, their world) in the middle of a small table.

“So,” I began, sitting in front of the table, Iroh and Zuko leaning over my shoulders to look at the map, “If this general area is where we are,” I circled an area near the South Pole, “Then the Avatar and friends should be right…..here!” I placed my finger on a small island, Kyoshi island.

“‘Kyoshi island.’” Zuko read aloud. “Why would the avatar be going there?”

“Because he wants to ride the Elephant Koi, obviously.” I shrug.

Zuko scoffed, “I don’t have time for your games, I need to find the avatar before Zhao!”

“And I’m telling you where he is, Kyoshi island! I’m a seer, remember? I can see things you can’t.”

He rolled his eyes at that. I sighed, leaning against the table and turning around to make eye contact.

“ Please , if just this once, trust me on this. You will find him there.” I pleaded quietly, struggling under his intense stare.

Zuko went silent for a moment, an indiscernible look crossing his features. He stood up straight, exhaling lightly.

Turning to Iroh, Zuko was quick to give orders, “Uncle, tell the captain to chart a course for Kyoshi Island. We need to be there as soon as possible.”

And with that, the prince walked through the door and down the hall, presumably back to his room, if his long robe was anything to go on.

A smile erupted onto my face, glancing back down at the map as Iroh bid me goodnight and retired to his room.

My fingers brushed across the coarse paper, sighing. “And the hunt begins…”

Chapter Text

“Ready the Rhinos!” Zuko shouted, leaning over the ship’s railing.

The crew scattered, going below the ship quickly to meet his demands.

“I hope you’re right about this.” Zuko said, turning to me.

I grinned, looking over at the approaching shore. “Don’t worry about it, he’ll be here.”

The ship stopped, the pointed stern lowering onto the ground and making way for the team of mounted Rhinos.

Zuko lead the crew, shouting, “I want the avatar alive, don’t stop until you find him!”

I rode near the back, Iroh behind me. One hand held the reins while the other gripped the horn of the somewhat western-style saddle.

I mean, the Fire nation is in the west, so riding western kinda makes sense. Amateur horse-back riding skills don’t fail me now!

We stopped in front of the town, I couldn’t help but look around.

The beautiful statue of Avatar Kyoshi, the cherry blossom trees blowing in the wind, the close-knit wooden housing.

This feels like a demon slayer town, lowkey… I thought, raising an eyebrow.

“Come out, avatar!” Zuko shouted, “You can’t hide from me forever!”

The locals looked out their doors and windows at Zuko’s booming voice, closing their shutters and locking up their houses.

Zuko huffed, “Find him!”

The men mounted on rhinos moved forward, going deeper into the town. They were quickly attacked by Kyoshi warriors, being swiftly knocked off their saddles and flying through the air.

Each Fire Nation soldier was quickly cut down by Kyoshi island’s defense, until one warrior aimed at Zuko.

I squinted at the girl, recognizing her choppy short hair and fierce fighting skills.

Suki! I gasped.

Zuko easily blocked her attack, shooting fire at her and spinning around, his Rhino swatting her away with its tail.

Okay, ouch

He blasted fire in her direction, but before it could hit another warrior, this time shorter and with a partially shaved head, jumped in front of Suki and blocked the attack.

My eyes widened in recognition.

Sokka!

Another warrior took down Zuko, practically tackling him off his Rhino from above.

“Yeah— no.” I pursed my lips, getting off my rhino and handing the reins to Iroh. “Here, I’m gonna take a walk.”

I walked around a nearby house, hoping to escape the violence. But, not looking where I was going, I ran into someone.

Orange caught my eye as we both fell to the ground. I rubbed my back, groaning.

Standing up slowly, I saw the person I ran into. Bald head, orange and yellow clothing, not to mention the bright blue arrows adorning his shiny noggin.

Uh oh—

He looked up as well, opening his mouth to apologize but stopped when he saw I was dressed in red.

“Wait, Aang!” I stood up, mimicking his movements as he grabbed his staff and pointed it at me.

“You’re from the Fire nation!”

“No! this is just a big misunderstanding—“ I tried to reason.

He pulled his staff back, positioning his body in a stance similar to a pitcher.

“Wait, no! Don’t you fucking dare— “ my words were cut off as he propelled air in my direction at what felt like a hundred miles per hour.

I went flying backward, demolishing someone’s wooden fence and rolling onto my stomach.

“Dude,” I said weakly, “That really hurt…”

Holding my stomach, I sat up slightly. The houses around me were burning, Zuko and Aang fighting in the middle.

At one point, Aang picked up two metal fans and used them to airbend Zuko through a house.

Yep, now you know how it feels

He quickly grabbed his staff, opening it and jumping on it as a glider, flying over the destroyed village.

Kyoshi’s statue burned, wood splintering and collapsing. Fire nation soldiers and Kyoshi warriors continued to clash until a large shadow overtook the village.

I looked up, spotting Aang, Katara, and Sokka (still in Kyoshi warrior attire) flying overhead on Appa.

“Back to the ship! Don’t lose sight of them!” Zuko yelled, running in the direction of the shore.

By the time the Rhinos rounded up, several troops aboard a single one behind Zuko, a giant serpent head rose above the horizon.

Aang seated on top of the Unagi, he showered water over the village, snuffing out the flames and leaving Zuko, his soldiers, and I soaking wet.

I spit out water, wringing the bottom of my shirt as I watched the Gaang fly away on Appa.

…

I can’t believe he threw me into a fence! I thought he was a pacifist— I mean, hello?? I swear he was a goody-two-shoes pacifist until Appa got taken in Ba Sing Se—

I sighed, leaning over the railing of the ship. The night sky was bright and unobstructed.

I guess they don’t have pollution out here, huh?

The cabin door slammed open, making me jump. Turning around, I saw Zuko walking toward me.

“It’s almost midnight.” He spoke, “We’re going to continue searching in the morning, so you should get some rest.”

His eyes looked softer against the deep blue sky.

“Oh, okay.” I exhaled, not realizing how late it was.

I followed him inside, an awkward silence hanging between us as it was probably the first time we were actually alone together. At least, without Iroh’s presence.

We stopped in front of the door to my room, neither of us moving for a second.

“So,” Zuko started, “Do you know where the Avatar’s going next?”

I think for a moment, “Get me a map, I’ll work it out.” I decide.

After leaving Kyoshi, they go to Omashu— but we’re not supposed to meet them in Omashu. So I’ll just have to track their journey according to the plot.

“Alright.” Zuko replies, the smallest smile gracing his lips. “I’ll have it here by dawn with more supplies.”

I nod, grabbing the handle on the door. Before going inside, I turn back to him.

“Goodnight.” I smile.

Zuko closes his eyes, nodding. “Goodnight.”

He leaves first, walking down the hall back to his own room as I finally enter mine.

What a day… I sighed.