Chapter Text
TW: Non-consensual kissing
“Hey, where’s Momo?” Aang asked looking around while the group was in the middle of packing up.
“I saw him changing a bug earlier, I think he went that way.” Zuko said pointing to the left with a jab of his thumb.
“Come on we gotta find him!” Aang said walking off in the direction Zuko was pointing.
“There he is!” Katara said pointing to Momo who was suspended in handing cage with two other hanging cages.
“Hang on, Momo!” Aang said. Aang used airbending to fly to the top of the tree, jumping from trunk-to-trunk to gain altitude. Zuko couldn’t see much more after that, (the trees were tall damit!) but eventually Momo’s cage was lowered to the ground. Sokka and Zuko helped maneuver the cage to let Momo out. Momo scamped up onto Zuko’s shoulders and started eating is lychee nuts as if nothing had ever happened.
“Seriously? No reaction at all?” Zuko asked Momo, perched on his shoulders. Momo chattered before he went back to eating. When Aang landed, the two other animals cried out for help.
“All right, you too.” Aang said smiling before repeating his ascent up the trees.
“This is gonna take forever.” Sokka groaned. He threw his boomerang and cut something, causing the two traps to fall back to the ground.
The hog monkeys ran away and Aang slid back down the tree dirt flying from the ground as he landed. Sokka knelt down to examine the traps.
“These are Fire Nation traps. You can tell from the metalwork. We'd better pack up camp and get moving.” Sokka said.
“Alright.” Zuko agreed walking back to camp.
“Uh-uh! No flying this time.” Sokka said while they were packing up Appa’s saddle.
“What? Why wouldn't we fly?” Aang asked confused.
“Think about it: Somehow Sideburns and the Fire Nation keep finding us. It's because they spot Appa, he's just too noticeable.” Sokka said.
“What? Appa's not too noticeable!” Katara argued.
“He's a gigantic fluffy monster with an arrow on his head! It's kinda hard to miss him!” Sokka said
“Sokka’s just jealous 'cause he doesn’t have arrow.” Aang said to Appa while rubbing his head.
“I know you all wanna fly, but my instincts tell me we should play it safe this time and walk.” Sokka said.
“I’m going to have to go with Sokka on this one. Especially since there’s fire nation traps around, it might be better to lie low.” Zuko said.
“Who made you the boss?” Katara asked her brother, completely ignoring Zuko.
“I'm not the boss, I'm the leader.” Sokka said pointing to himself.
“You're the leader? But your voice still cracks!” Katara laughed.
“I'm the oldest, and I'm a warrior! So-“ Sokka deepened his voice “-I'm the leader!
“If anyone's the leader, it's Aang. I mean, he is the Avatar.” Katara said
“Are you kidding? He's just a goofy kid!” Sokka argued.
“He's right.” Aang said while handing upside down from Appa’s horns.
“Why do boys always think someone has to be the leader? I bet you wouldn't be so bossy if you kissed a girl.” Katara retorted.
“I've kissed a girl, you just haven't met her!” Sokka said defensively.
“Who? Gran-Gran? I've met Gran-Gran.” Katara said mockingly.
“No! Besides Gran-Gran. Look, my instincts tell me we have a better chance of slipping through on foot, and a leader has to trust his instincts.” Sokka said.
“Who’s leader and who’s not aside, I’m going to have to go with Sokka on this one. Especially since there’s fire nation traps around, it might be better to lie low.” Zuko said tying his Blue Spirit mask on his hip to make room in his bag.
“Okay, we'll try it your way, oh wise leader.” Katara said sarcastically.
“Who knows? Walking might be fun.” Aang said enthusiastically, already wearing his backpack.
It took Aang ten minutes to start complaining.
“Walking stinks! How do people go anywhere without a flying bison?” Aang asked.
“Well I don't know, Aang. Why don't you ask Sokka's instincts? They seem to know everything.” Katara said.
“Ha ha, very funny.” Sokka retorted.
“How in the name of the Spirits did you do this all the time, Zuko?” Katara asked.
“Spite.” Zuko answered. Katara snorted.
“I'm tired of carrying this pack.” Aang complained.
“You know who you should ask to carry it for a while? Sokka's instincts.”
Katara mocked.
“That's a great idea. Hey, Sokka's instincts, would you mind--“ Aang started.
“Okay, okay, I get it! Look, guys, I'm tired too. But the important thing is that we're safe from the..” Sokka walked through a bush and sees something “..Fire ... Nation.” He finished. Zuko pushed then the bush and was met with a Fire Nation camp. They seemed to have been interrupted mid meal, as many were in more relaxed attire and eating. When they noticed the group they got up and reached for their weapons.
“Run!” Sokka cried. The group abandoned their bags and turned to run back to the bush behind them, only to find that it had been set on fire.
“We're cut off!” Sokka said.
“Really? I never would’ve guessed!” Zuko said with bitting sarcasm.
“Sokka, your shirt!” Aang said pointing to the flames creeping up Sokka’s sleeve. Sokka yelped and Katara out the flames with Waterbending.
“If you let us pass, we promise not to hurt you.” Sokka said. Zuko picked up on this and clashed his swords together before falling into a fighting stance.
“What are you doing?” Katara whispered.
“Bluffing.” Sokka whispered back.
“You, promise not to hurt us?” Laughed a solider. A whooshing sound followed that statement and a dart from an unknown source struck the guard in the back. The guard groaned and collapsed.
“Nice work, Sokka! How'd you do that?” Aang asked enthusiastically.
“Uh, instinct?” Sokka said shrugging.
“Look!” Katara said pointing to a tree. There, a boy with shaggy brown hair stood. He unsheathed two hook swords and jumped down, taking two soldiers with him.
“Down you go.” The boy said. Katara looked at him amazed, Aang shocked, Sokka confused, and Zuko simply stared. Another soldier charged at the boy, but Zuko intervened and threw one of his swords at the soldiers helmet before rushing up, trading a few blows and knocking a soldier out.
“They're in the trees!” Cried a solider. Out of the corner of his eye, Zuko saw a kid jump down on a solder and blind him, laughing while he rode the solider. A few arrows shot past Zuko and to an unsuspecting soldier.
Zuko charged into the fight. He slit a few spears down their shaft, knocked plenty of guys out and landed a few good kicks. After knocking out a few more guys, he saw some soldier trying to sneak up on Katara. Zuko ran up to the soldier and knocked them out, too.
“How you doing?” Zuko asked.
“Great, how about you?” Katara asked
“Eh, you know.” Zuko’s shrugged. He grabbed the end of a charging spear with his right arm, broke it on his left elbow, spun again to grab the soldiers wrists, knee them in the stomach and hit a nerve on their neck to knock them out. When Zuko was finished, he turned back to Katara to see the boy with the hook swords running up to them.
“Hey.” The boy said.
“Hi.” Katara said bashfully.
“Hello.” Zuko said, thoroughly unamused.
“You just took out a whole army almost single-handed!” Aang said in amazement, eyes grazing through now empty camp.
“Army?! Pfft! There were only like, twenty guys.” Sokka scoffed.
“My name is Jet, and these are my Freedom Fighters. Sneers, Longshot, Smellerbee, The Duke, and Pipsqueak.” The now-named-Jet said.
“Ha ha! Pipsqueak, that's a funny name.” Aang said laughing
‘Pipsqueak’ loomed over Aang in a threatening manner. “You think my name is funny?” He asked in a deep voice.
“It's hilarious!” Aang said with an upbeat tone. Pipsqueak started laughing along with the Duke and slapped Aang on is back an onto the ground.
“I’m Katara, and this is Aang, Sokka, and Zuko.” Katara said.
“Zuko. That’s a pretty name.” Jet said.
“Thanks.” Zuko mumbled.
“Umm, thanks for saving us, Jet. We're lucky you were there.” Katara said after a bit. The rest of the group was raiding the camp.
“I should be thanking you. We were waiting to ambush those soldiers all morning. We just needed the right distraction, and then you guys stumbled in.” Jet said.
“We were relying on instincts.” Katara said eyeing Sokka.
“And reason,” Zuko added.
“You'll get yourself killed doing that.” Jet said.
“Hey, Jet, these barrels are filled of blasting jelly.”
Called The Duke.
“That's a great score.” Jet smiled.
“And these boxes are filled with jelly candy!” Pipsqueak said holding up a wooden box.
“Also good. Let's not get those mixed up.” Jet said.
“We'll take this stuff back to the hideout.” The Duke said
“You guys have a hideout?” Aang said excitedly.
“No Aang they live in dirt holes and dig new ones everyday.” Zuko said sarcastically.
“Really? That’s a bit odd but I can’t be one to judge.” Aang said. Katara face palmed. Jet laughed.
“No, we have a real idea out. You wanna see it?” Jet asked
“Yes, we wanna see it!” Katara said excitedly.
“Well then, come with us.” Jet said leading them deeper into the forest.
____________________
“We're here.” Jet announced.
“Where? There's nothing here.” Sokka said.
“Not yet. Watch.” Jet said handing The Duke a rope. They were immediately sucked into the trees.
“Care for a ride up?” Jet asked, holding a hand out in front of Zuko.
“Sure.” Zuko shrugged.
“You gotta take your hood off first.” Jet said. Zuko shrugged and let his hood drop to his shoulders, his sun kissed hair to flowing freely at his neck.
Jet winced, most likely at the scar, before gasping softly. “You’re, you’re beautiful.” He whispered
“What?” Zuko said knowing dam well what Jet said.
“I said to take my hand.” Jet said with a soft smile. Zuko took it and Jet pulled him in close.
“You might want to hold on.” Jet said grinning. Zuko wrapped his arm around Jet’s shoulder and neck, and Jet put an arm around Zuko’s waist. They used the same thing the Duke used to get up into the tree, only much slower so that the forest views could be seen.
“It’s beautiful.” Zuko said.
“Not as pretty as you.” Jet whispered softly.
“Pardon?” Zuko asked.
“Nothing.” Jet said smiling.
When the ride finished, Zuko was met with a large and interconnected tree house.
“Nice place you got!” Aang said zipping through the trees.
“It's beautiful up here!” Katara said having gotten up on her own.
“It’s beautiful, and more importantly, the Fire Nation can't find us.” Jet said.
“They would love to find you. Wouldn't they, Jet?” Asked a girl, Smellerbee, Zuko thought her name was.
“It's not gonna happen, Smellerbee.” Jet said grinning. The Freedom Fighters, Katara, Zuko, and Sokka followed Jet across a bridge.
“Redwood trees, it’s a good idea. Some of the tallest trees in the world.” Zuko said, it finally clicking why the trees were so big.
“You’ve seen bigger?” Jet asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Heard. Supposedly the trees in the world forest located in the spirit world are supposed to be over 300 feet tall.” Zuko said
“So why does the Fire Nation want to find you?” Katara asked.
“I guess you could say I've been causing them a little trouble. See, they took over a nearby Earth Kingdom town a few years back.” Jet said.
“We've been ambushin' their troops, cutting off their supply lines, and doing anything we can to mess with 'em.” Pipsqueak said.
“One day, we'll drive the Fire Nation out of here for good and free that town.” Jet said grinning.
“That's so brave.” Katara said.
“Yeah.” Zuko agreed.
“Thanks, that means a lot coming from the Blue Spirit.” Jet said smiling. Zuko’s hand instinctively reached for his mask he had forgotten was tied to his waist. “Don’t worry, we won’t tell. It’s an honor to finally meet you.”
“Likewise.” Zuko said. “So, you’ve heard about me?”
“Heard about you!?” Smellerbee asked. “Dude, you’re a legend! Everyone here has heard of the tales of the Blue Spirit! You’re amazing!”
“Oh, thanks.” Zuko said, his cheeks flushing. He tried to move some of his hair to cover his blush.
“You guys are so brave here.” Katara said dreamily.
“Yeah, nothing's braver than a guy in a tree house.” Sokka said sarcastically.
“Don't pay any attention to my brother.” Katara retorted.
“No problem. He probably had a rough day.” Jet said shrugging.
“So, you all live here?” Zuko asked. Sokka walked behind them, getting the message that he was behind ignored.
“That's right. Longshot over there? His town got burned down by the Fire Nation. And we found The Duke trying to steal our food. I don't think he ever really had a home.” Jet said.
“What about you?” Katara asked. Zuko, Jet, and Katara all stopped walking.
“The Fire Nation killed my parents. I was only eight years old. That day changed me forever.” Jet said.
“Sokka and I lost our mother to the Fire Nation.” Katara said.
“I'm so sorry, Katara.” Jet said.
“I’m sorry for your loss, Jet.” Zuko said.
“Has the Fire Nation hurt you? To spite them in the way you do, they must’ve done something.” Jet said.
Zuko laughed horsey and gestured to his scar.“Besides that, yeah. My town was run by the Fire Nation. It drove my mother to the point of near insanity before she was killed, my uncle and cousin were drafted of to the siege of Ba Sing Se, killing my cousin and causing my uncle to disappear for years. My sister and I were left in foster care before we were dumped in the hands of an Ozai loyalist. I was kicked out of my town, and as far as I know, my sister is still there.” Zuko said.
“I’m so sorry, Zuko.” Jet said sympathetically. Zuko hummed in response.
It was during Jets dinner speech that Zuko started getting some….off vibes from Jet.
“Today, we struck another blow against the Fire Nation swine.” Jet said victoriously. Everyone started cheering at that. “I got a special joy from the look on one soldier's face, when The Duke dropped down on his helmet and rode him like a wild hog monkey!” The Duke, now without his helmet, marched on the table in celebration. “Now, the Fire Nation thinks they don't have to worry about a couple of kids hiding in the trees. Maybe they're right.” Jet said. A loud boo followed his words, “Or maybe ... they're dead wrong.” A loud cheer followed that. The way Jet delivered that last statement, it made Zuko uneasy. Like he was actually considering death.
“Hey, Jet, nice speech.” Katara said smiling.
“Thanks. By the way, I was really impressed with you and Aang. That was some great bending I saw out there today.” Jet complemented.
“Well, he's great. He's the Avatar. I could use some more training.” Katara said blushing.
“Avatar, huh? Very nice.” Jet said.
“Thanks, Jet.” Aang said smiling.
“And Zuko, I’ve never seen someone so good with the dual broadswords.” Jet said.
“Shuang niuweidao is a more accurate name, but thanks.” Zuko said.
“So I might know a way that guys can help in our struggle.” Jet said.
“Unfortunately, we have to leave tonight.”
Sokka said.
“Sokka, you're kidding me! I needed you and Zuko on an important mission tomorrow.” Jet said in an effort to win Sokka over.
“What mission?” Sokka demanded.
A scouting mission, apparently. That’s what Jet said. They would have to wait for the morning, so the group was shown to their rooms for the night.
“Hey, can I talk to you?” Sokka asked Zuko as they were setting up.
“Sure.” Zuko said following him.
Once they were outside, Sokka asked, “Does something feel off to you about Jet?”
Zuko bit his lip. “Yeah, something does. Like he’ll do anything for what he believes is right. No matter how extreme.”
“I know that Katara and Aang are head over heels with this, but somethings really not right here.” Sokka said.
“Yeah, I agree. We’ve got that thing that we’re doing with Jet tomorrow, we can learn more then.” Zuko said.
“Yeah. Ok.” Sokka said. He walked back into the tent with Zuko behind him. Zuko spared one last glance at the darkening forest before he left to sleep.
Zuko awoke with the sun again. Being in the forest, there wasn’t much places for optimal light from the sun, so Zuko climbed to the top of the trees for his morning meditation.
Zuko was left alone for a good 20 minutes as the sun rose before he heard the crunching of leaves behind him.
“Hey.” It was Jet.
“Hello.” Zuko said stiffly, mildly annoyed that he was being interrupted.
“Whatcha doing?” Jet asked sitting next to Zuko.
“Meditating.” Zuko answered.
“Oh, I’m not interrupting, am I?” Jet asked.
“No it’s fine. I’ve been up here a while.” Zuko said letting his hands go lax.
“Soooooo, this scouting mission, your ready?” Jet asked.
“I’ve been breaking into Fire Nation strong holds for years. I think I can handle a scouting mission.” Zuko joked.
“Of course, of course.” Jet said. Zuko hummed.
“Why is your hair like that?” Jet asked. Zuko reached up to stroke his hair.
“I’m not sure.” Zuko lied. “My mother always thought it had something to do with the spirits. The Fire Nation forced me to hide it. Said it made me look like a freak show.”
“I think it’s beautiful.” Jet said.
“Thanks.” Zuko said. Jet reached up to touch it. Zuko flinched away at the touch, it was too close to his scar.
“Let’s get ready for the scouting mission.” Zuko said hastily. He got up and left, leaving Jet in the leaves.
The scouting mission was a simple one. An ambush. It started out innocently. Jet made a bird call, and Smellerbee and Pipsqueak made a returning one.
Sokka handed his jawbone knife into the trunk of the tree.
“What are you doing?” Jet asked
“Shh ... It amplifies vibrations.” Sokka said pressing his ear against the hilt of the sword.
“Good trick.” Jet said, impressed.
“Nothing yet.” Sokka whispered. “Wait! Yes, someone's approaching.”
“How many?” Jet whispered.
“I think there's just one.” Sokka said.
Jet made another bird call. “Good work, Sokka. Ready your weapon.”
Sokka pulled his knife out of the trees and Zuko drew his broadswords.
“Wait! It’s just an old man.” Zuko said up on spotting who their “target” was. Jet ignored Zuko and proceeded to draw his own swords and jump down to the man.
Zuko watched in horror as Jet knocked the old man’s cane from his hand. The man bumped into Pipsqueak next, falling to the ground. He was then pinned down by Pipsqueak.
“We have to help!!” Zuko said frantically, jumping down and running up to Jet. Jet was about to strike the old man when Sokka intervened by hooking Jet’s foot with his club.
“For fucks sake Jet, he's just an old man!” Sokka said.
“He's Fire Nation! Search him!” Jet demanded.
“No.” Zuko said. The group stopped what they were doing. “I won’t let you hurt the innocent.” Zuko stood defensively in front of the old man.
“Zuko’s right! He’s not hurting anyone!”
“Have you forgotten that the Fire Nation killed your mother? Remember why you fight!” Jet said angrily.
“That doesn’t excuse it!!! The Fire Nation has hurt me, but I refuse to let you hurt the innocent!!” Zuko said.
“We’ll take his things and leave him.” Jet decided. Zuko turned around and helped the man up. Smellerbee stole the man’s bag.
“This doesn’t feel right.” Sokka said.
“It’s what needs to be done. Come on, we’re outta here!” Jet said walking off.
“P-Prince Zuko?” The man asked hesitantly.
Zuko out a finger over his lips.
“T-thank you, my prince.” The man said bowing.
“Please, just Zuko. I am so sorry for the torment of you and your town.” Zuko said.
“Why did you help?” The man asked.
“Because I will always stand up for my people and for what’s right. And besides, I’m not welcome back in the Fire Nation, but the Fire Nation is its people, not its rulers.” Zuko said.
“Thank you. I will forever be in your debt.” The man said.
“You don’t owe me anything. But, could you not tell people that I’m here?” Zuko asked. The man nodded.
“Come on, Sokka! Zuko!” Jet shouted. Zuko bowled and followed Jet. Sokka looked at the man with pity before he too, ran off.
Back at the hideout, Sokka and Zuko were sitting against a tree, mulling over the mission.
Aang zip lined down to where Sokka and Zuko were sitting.
“Guys! Look what The Duke gave me!” Aang said excitedly. He pulled some small pellets out of the bag he was wearing. Grinning slyly, Aang threw the pellets to Momo, exploding with a pop. Momo puffed up and hissed like a startled mouse-cat. He climbed onto Aang’s shoulders, grabbed some of the pellets out of the bag and started throwing several of the explosives at Aang’s feet. This cause Aang to dance around wildly.
“Ow! Quit it!” Aang said frantically.
“Hey, guys. Is Jet back?” Katara asked, walking up to the tree. Sokka was still glaring at the ground and Zuko was looking at the ground uncomfortably.
“Yeah, he's back. But we're leaving.” Sokka said
“What?” Aang asked.
"But I made him this hat.” Katara said showing them a cap made out of leaves and flowers.
”Your boyfriend Jet's a thug.” Sokka said.
“What?! No, he's not.” Katara said shocked.
“He's messed up, Katara.” Zuko said, finally speaking.
“He's not messed up, he's just got a different way of life, a really fun way of life.” Aang said enthusiastically, the sweet summer child he was.
“He beat and robbed a harmless old man!” Sokka argued.
“I wanna hear Jet's side of the story.” Katara said crossing her arms doubtfully.
“You guys told them what happened, but you didn't mention that the guy was Fire Nation?” Jet asked.
“No, they conveniently left that part out.” Katara said.
“Fine! But even if he was Fire Nation, he was a harmless civilian!” Sokka argued.
“He was an assassin, Sokka.” Jet said. He pulled out a knife and thrust it directly into a nearby stump.
“See? There's a compartment for poison in the knife.” Jet said twisting the butt of the knife to reveal a compartment for poison. “He was sent to eliminate me. You guys helped save my life.”
“I knew there was an explanation.” Katara said smiling.
“I didn't see any knife!” Sokka said.
“Nor did I!” Zuko shot.
“That's because he was concealing it.” Jet explained.
“See you two? I'm sure you just didn't notice the knife.” Katara said smiling.
“There was no knife! I'm going back to the hut and packing my things.” Sokka said stomping away.
“Tell me you guys aren't leaving yet. I really need your help.” Jet said.
“What can we do?” Aang asked.
“The Fire Nation is planning on burning down our forest. If you both use waterbending to fill the reservoir, we could fight the fires. But if you leave now, they'll destroy the whole valley.” Jet explained.
Aang and Katara looked at each other and nodded.
“We’ll go talk to Sokka.” Katara said. She and Aang left the hut. Zuko tried to follow.
“Zuko, wait.” Jet said. “Please, just listen to me.”
“Fine.” Zuko growled.
“I know what you think I did was crazy, but I hope that you’ll eventually understand me.”
“Why?” Zuko asked.
“Why what? Told you that they guy was an-“
“No. You didn’t try to get Sokka to understand you! Why me?” Zuko asked
“I don’t know. I’ve looked up to you for a long time. You’ve done more by yourself against the fire nation in a week than us Freedom Fighters have done in two months. When I met you, my literal idol, I was so happy.” Jet said fidgeting. He moved closer to Zuko. “Then I found out that you and I’ve have lost much and have felt similar pain. You fight for the same reason we do. I never really thought I would find someone so much like me, someone who could understand me to the fullest. And then you came along, blunt and beautiful, and I suppose, I’ve always liked the Blue Spirit, more than normal. Now that I know who’s behind the mask, I guess I-” when Jet put an arm around Zuko’s waist and pulled him closer, Zuko panicked.
“I’m going to pack my things, Jet.” Zuko said standing up suddenly and leaving.
“-Well, my instincts tell me we need to stay here a little longer and help Jet. Come on, Aang.” Zuko heard Katara say before she stopped out of the tent with Aang.
“Sorry, Sokka.” Aang said.
Zuko walked into the tent to find Sokka sulking.
“Apparently the Fire Nation is going to burn down their forest and Katara and Aang are going to help Jet to stop it by using Waterbending to fill a reservoir.” Sokka said.
Zuko sighed. “Who knows if he’s lying at this point. But, we should at least stay till that’s done to watch over Katara and Aang.”
“Yeah. Zuko, are you ok?” Sokka asked.
“I’m fine.” Zuko mumbled.
“You wanna talk about it?” Sokka offered.
“It’s just Jet. He’s so-well—smooth and very touchy. I don’t like being touched without knowing, especially by a stranger, and Jet just doesn’t seem to get it. And he keeps complimenting me all the time, I just don’t understand why. And the way he’s touching me feels a lot more out there than normal…….” Zuko said trailing off.
Sokka twiddled his thumbs, thinking of what to say. “Can I hug you?” Sokka asked. Zuko shook his head. “Listen, we’ll be out of here soon. Then he’ll never be here to bother you again. And if he’s does, I’ll beat the bad boy out of him.”
“Thanks, Sokka.” Zuko said.
“You sure you don’t want that hug….?” Sokka asked.
“Not right now.” Zuko said turning to pack up his things. “And don’t tell Katara and Aang.”
“If you don’t want me too I swear I won’t, but I’m always here to listen if you needed it.” Sokka said. Zuko hummed and nodded.
He wasn’t getting attached. No, we wasn’t. Not at all. He had to be ready to bail at any moment
Sokka kept watch. He couldn’t shake the feeling that something was going to happen.
“Let's go.” He heard Jet whispering. Sokka got up and pulled the door flap aside enough to see some of Jets followers descending on the ropes.
“What do you think they’re doing?” Zuko asked. Sokka had to stop himself from screaming.
“How’d you know!? You were asleep!” Sokka whispered shouted.
“You’re not as stealthy as you think you are.” Zuko said. “Now come on, let’s go see where they’re going.”
Sokka and Zuko jumped down to the tree that they were at earlier and saw Jet along with some of the other Freedom Fighters pushing a cart full of blasting jelly down the path.
“What would they need blasting jelly for?” Zuko whispered.
“I don’t know.” Sokka said. He jumped down from the tree and into the bushes. Zuko and Sokka trailed after Jet down the path and into the early morning. When Jet finally stopped, they on a cliff over looking the down and the half filled reservoir, the sun finally rising.
“Now listen, you are not to blow the dam until I give the signal. If the reservoir isn't full, the Fire Nation troops could survive.” Jet commanded.
“But what about the people in the town? Won't they get wiped out, too?” The Duke asked, jumping off the wagon.
Jet placed a hand on The Duke’s shoulder. “Look, Duke, that's the price of ridding this area of the Fire Nation.” Jet said. “Now don't blow the dam until I give the signal. Got it?” Jet commanded to Longshot.
“We have to go warn Katara and Aan-“ Sokka started, but is volume got him and Zuko pulled out of the bush by Pipsqueak.
“Where do you think you're going, ponytail?” Smellerbee taunted.
“Zuko, Sokka, I'm glad you two decided to join us.” Jet said. Pipsqueak and Smellerbee pushed Zuko and Sokka to the ground. Sokka made an attempt to fight back, but Zuko pulled him back.
“We heard your plan to destroy the Earth Kingdom town.” Sokka growled.
“Our plan is to rid the valley of the Fire Nation.” Jet said.
“There are people living there, Jet; mothers and fathers and children!” Zuko protested.
“We can't win without making some sacrifices.” Jet said.
“You lied to Aang and Katara about the forest fire!” Sokka accused, pointing a finger at Jet.
“Because they don't understand the demands of war. Not like we do.” Jet said smiling.
“I do understand. I understand that there's nothing you won't do to get what you want.” Sokka said.
“I was hoping you'd have an open mind, but I can see you've made your choice.” Jet said disappointed. “Zuko?” He asked. “Will you stand with me on this?”
“No.” Zuko growled.
“What?” Jet asked.
“You heard me. No! You are going to kill the innocent! I can’t allow you to do that!” Zuko said.
“Think about what they’ve done! To you, your uncle and cousin and mom! They’ve hurt you!” Jet said.
“That doesn’t mean I’ll allow a town being destroyed!!” Zuko shot back.
“Please, Zuko. You need to understand.” Jet said, advancing on Zuko.
“I do understand! I understand that you don’t care!” Zuko shouted.
“I do care!!!” Jet said defensively.
“About who!?!? Who do you really care about if you’re willing to let the innocent die!?!?” Zuko roared.
“You!!! I care about you!!!!” Jet cried. The forest went silent. “I care about you a lot!! I had a crush on you as the Blue Spirit and I love you now more than ever!!! You can understand me and I understand you!!! You just need to listen!!” Jet begged.
Zuko was stunned to silence.
“W-what? No! How can you-“ Zuko was cut off by Jet’s lips being pressed against his.
When Jet kissed Zuko, Sokka saw RED. The look of confusion and terror on Zuko’s face as Jet’s hands were tightly grasping his face and scar, Zuko, the guy that was so startled at any unwarranted and surprising touch, the guy who was so jumpy to any physical affection, seeing him like this made Sokka livid.
Sokka wasn’t entirely sure why he was immediately so protective over Zuko, but he couldn’t let what was happening slide
“GET OFF HIM!!!!!” Sokka screamed, punching Jet in the side of the head. Jet stumbled back, startled. Zuko was still frozen, horrified.
“Zuko? Zuko?” Sokka asked. He wanted to hug Zuko, to shake his shoulders, to knock some sense into him, but he wasn’t going to touch Zuko without his consent.
“Zuko, you’ve got to understand, if we are together then-“ Jet started.
“Back the fuck up!!!” Sokka yelled.
“Zuko, please-“
Zuko snapped himself out of his trance. “Together!? How do you even know if I like you back!? Or does that not matter to you!?”
“Zuko-“ Jet said walking up to Zuko, hand out. Zuko, completely fed up, sent a bright arch of fire at Jet.
“Back. The. Fuck. Up.” Zuko snarled. Jet frozen in shock and stared at Zuko. Even Pipsqueak and Smellerbee were still.
“Y-you’re a firebender.” Jet whispered. “You’re a firebender!” He said louder. “I-I can’t believe it! I can’t believe you! Your Fire Nation!!!!”
“Yeah. I am.” Zuko said.
“Who are you, really!?” Jet demanded, thrashing his shuang gou.
“My name is Zuko. Crown Prince of the Fire Nation, heir to the Dragon Throne, firstborn son of Fire Lord Ozai and Lady Ursa.” Zuko said.
Jet stopped.
“The Prince?” He whispered. “You’re the Prince.”
“Yeah.” Zuko said.
“You could have stopped this all from happening!!! The war, the pain, all of it!!!” Jet screamed in outrage.
“I FUCKING TRIED JET!!!! WHY DO YOU THINK IM HERE INSTED OF THE FIRE NATION!?!? BECAUSE I WAS FUCKING BANISHED FOR TELLING A GENRAL THAT SACRIFICE A GROUP OF NEW RECRUITS WAS WRONG!!!! MY FATHER DOESNT CARE AND NEITHER DOES THE FUCKING FIRE NATION!!!!!” Zuko screamed.
….Wait, did he say banished?
Jet turned around to face the town. “Take them for a walk. A long walk. They can’t warn Katara and Aang.”
“Jet-“ Smellerbee started
“Just do it ok!?” Jet snapped. Sokka saw a glint of a tear trailing down his face. “We’re gonna win a great victory against the Fire Nation today.” Jet sounded like he was trying to convince himself more than anything.
Zuko and Sokka walked for a bit, both Smellerbee and Pipsqueak cursing out and shaming Zuko the whole way.
“Come on, move along!” Smellerbee said, pushing Zuko.
“How can you stand by and do nothing while Jet wipes out a whole town?” Sokka asked.
“Hey, listen, Sokka, Jet's a great leader. We follow what he says, and things always turn out okay. We’re not the ones hanging with the ashmaker prince.” Pipsqueak said. Zuko visibly flinched at the name.
Sokka’s eyes trailed to the lychee nut traps. He gestured subtly to Zuko, who gave a short nod of understanding.
“If that's how Jet leads ... then he's got a lot to learn!” Sokka said before breaking off into a sprint, Zuko not far behind. Smellerbee made a grab for them, but missed.
“Hey!” Smellerbee shouted. The two Freedom Fighters chased after Zuko and Sokka. Zuko and Sokka lead them to the traps and jumped over them, but Smellerbee and Pipsqueak weren’t as quick and ended up snared and hung up in the trees.
“While you two are up there, you might want to practice your knot work.” Sokka said holding up his knots. Zuko burned his and left them on the ground.
“Come on, we gotta run!!” Zuko’s said running off to the dam, Sokka following close behind.
“What should we do!? We can’t stop the dam and evacuate the village at the same time!” Sokka said.
“We can if we split up!” Zuko said.
“Ok. I’ll head to the village and try to get them to leave, it would be dangerous for you to come. You head to the dam and see if you can stop it from blowing up!!” Sokka said.
“You got it!!” Zuko said. He changed course are ran for the dam.
Please spirits, let Zuko be ok Sokka prayed.
________________
Zuko couldn’t afford to stop running. He passed by the river briefly, and to his horror, it was full.
When Zuko finally made it to the dam, he noticed the most of the other Freedom Fighters were stashed in trees, all out of the way.
Several axes and knives were thrown at him. Zuko tried his best to avid them, but in the process, he failed to stop the flaming arrow the launched from the sky
“NO!!!” Zuko screamed. The bombs went off only a mere foot or two away from Zuko, Zuko was thrown back.
The sound from the explosion was unbearable, the heat and force of the blast even more so. Zuko’s front stung from the explosion, it was most definitely going to scar and bruise or more. He was launched a good ten feet in the air before colliding with the ground. He only had a moment to gather his bearings over his searing headache before he saw the terrifying wave of water looming over him.
Zuko made a shield of fire in a vain attempt to protect himself, but he could feel its power waning almost as quickly as he had fired it up.
The shield broke, and Zuko was whisked away.
Oxygen was leaving Zuko’s lunged and behind replaced with water.
He didn’t remember opening his mouth
He didn’t remember screaming
He didn’t remember being thrown around or hitting different rocks and trees, gaining new cuts and bruises.
Zuko’s mind drifted elsewhere.
To his mother who died for him.
To Azula, Mai, and Ty Lee asking to play Pai Sho with him.
To Uncle who made them stop in almost every port for tea.
To the Gaang that had accepted him.
To Sokka who was willing to pick a fight with Jet while completely outnumbered and weaponless, for him.
I can’t die now Zuko thought fiercely. they still need me
Agni’s blessing rushed through his veins, the heat of a thousand suns. Zuko seemed to work on autopilot, channeling his chi and moving it around him in a shield. The water evaporated around him, and he could breathe again.
Zuko opened his eyes, he was at the bottom of the river.
Coughing painfully, all of the water he swallowed flowed out of his mouth and turned to vapor.
He moved.
Slowly
One foot in front of the other
Up to the river bank
Concentration
Zuko breached the surface.
His shield fell.
He coughed and hacked and fell to the ground.
Things were blurry
His head was pounding
His ears were ringing
Everything burned
Everything felt heavy
Like he was being dragged underwater again.
“-KO!!!!!!!”
Was someone yelling?
“-wh—ZU!!!!!!”
Was that Sokka?
“ZUKO!!!!!!!”
Zuko opened his eyes to blur of blue.
Sokka
_________________
“ZUKO!!!!!!!!” Sokka screamed, desperately looking of any sign him.
“WHERE ARE YOU ZUKO!?!?!?” Sokka screamed again. He ran up the new river before spotting a body with unnatural hair lying by the bank.
“ZUKO!!!!” Sokka shouted running as fast as he could to him.
The absolute last situation Sokka wanted to find Zuko in was the one he was in now, burnt to the crisp and passed out in the grass by the river, but at least he was found.
“ZUKO!!! ZUKO ARE YOU OK!?!?” Sokka asked frantically. “OH MY SPIRITS YOUR BURNED!!!! YOUR BRUNED SO FUCKING BAD HOLY SHIT!!!!”
Zuko looked really bad. He was burnt on his arms and legs like he had tired to use them to shield his face, his face had bruises and cuts, there were some cuts in his torso, legs, face and arm, AND he was pale. Like wayyyyyyyyyy paler than normal.
Zuko groaned. “Mmm’kinda alive…….” He slurred
“Thank the high spirits.” Sokka said, relief washing over him.
“Help up….?” Zuko slurred again
“Oh! Right!” Sokka said. When Sokka went to pick Zuko up, he hissed in pain.
Worry flashed across Sokka’s face. “Let’s get you back to Appa. We seriously need to treat those burns.”
“M’kay.” Zuko slurred. Sokka tried to press forward but seemed to have under estimated Zuko’s injuries.
“Can’t walk……” Zuko mumbled.
“Ok. I’ll carry you.” Sokka decided. He put an arm under Zuko’s and tried to hoist the prince up. When he couldn’t pick him up all the way, Sokka flushed with guilt.
“I’m not strong enough to carry you on my own.” Sokka said guiltily.
“M’sfine…….” Zuko mumbled. Sokka bit down his tears at seeing Zuko this way and pressed on. Every time Zuko winced in pain he wanted nothing more to die right there and then.
“We’re going to get you to Appa’s head, and you sit there with me while we find Aang and Katara. Ok?” Sokka said, voice laced with worry.
“Mmmmm.” Zuko hummed.
Appa lowered his head to the ground and Sokka was forced drag Zuko up. Once Zuko was on Appa, Sokka positioned him next to him on Appa’s head so he could monitor him. The Prince was still limp in his grip and his head fell into the nook of Sokka’s neck.
“Yip yip.” Sokka said, trying hard not to blush over the fact that Zuko was practically cuddling into him of all people. He would never normally do this, and Sokka hated the fact that his first real physical contact with Zuko’s other than punches and the occasional pat on the back, was because Zuko had been in an explosion.
Soon, the warm afternoon air was blowing on Zuko, hopefully drying the princes wet clothes.
Zuko was still very sluggish and tired from the explosion, and was having a hard time staying in the present. Sokka wrapped an arm around Zuko’s to stop him from falling.
“You good there?” Sokka asked worriedly. Zuko hummed. His head sunk lower into Sokka neck and Sokka couldn’t help but stare. He was hurt real bad, but he also looked so beautiful. Well, he always looked beautiful, but in the afternoon sun, the light breeze blowing on his face and his relaxed expression, he looked like an angel.
When Zuko flinched in pain when Appa made too harsh of a turn, the reality set back in. He needed to help Zuko and he needed to do it fast.
Sokka saw the cliff that Katara, Aang, and Jet were on. He decided to cook up a little surprise.
“This was a victory, Katara. Remember that. The Fire Nation is gone and this valley will be safe.” Zuko heard Jet say.
“It will be safe, without you.” Sokka said as Appa rose dramatically over the cliff.
“Sokka!” Katara cried overjoyed. “Zuko!!” She said, less overjoyed and more worried.
“What happened!?” Aang asked frantically.
“Zuko got caught in the blast. Thankfully, he was the only one that got hurt. I warned the villagers of your plan, just in time.” Sokka said.
“What?!” Jet said in outrage
“At first they didn't believe me. The Fire Nation soldiers assumed I was a spy. But one man vouched for me, the old man you attacked. He urged them to trust me, and we got everyone out in time.” Sokka explained. “Zuko went to stop the dam. But he was caught in it instead.”
“Sokka, you fool! We could've freed this valley!” Jet shouted.
“Who would be free? Everyone would be dead. Zuko almost died trying to stop the dam.” Sokka said. Zuko, who had opened his eyes Sokka noted, had was glaring at an ice covered Jet.
“You traitor!” Jet shouted spitefully.
“No, Jet. You became the traitor when you stopped protecting innocent people.” Sokka said.
“Katara. Please, help me.” Jet begged.
“Goodbye, Jet.” Katara said.
“Zuko….?” Jet tried.
“'F-fuck you.” Zuko said to the best of his ability.
“Guys, help me move Zuko to the back of the saddle.” Sokka said.
“I can airbend him.” Aang offered. Sokka nodded and using the support of air and of Sokka’s own muscle, they maneuvered the prince to the back of the saddle.
“Yip yip.” Aang said, giving Appa’s reigns a flick of his wrist.
“Zuko? Are you ok?” Katara asked worriedly.
“Alive.” Zuko said.
Katara nodded sucked all the water off him and dumped it over the edge.
“I’m going take off your shirt ok?” Katara asked. Zuko gave a short nod.
When Sokka glanced on the new scars he winced. They were red, irritated, and looked ungodly painful. Had he been in a different mindset, he would have taken noticed to the numerous other scars littering his body.
“Zuko…..” Sokka said trailing off.
“Sokka, hand me the burn gel and some bandages.” Katara said assuming full medical mode.
Sokka went to work and started searching their stuff for the medical materials. He heard Zuko groan in pain behind him as Katara used waterbending to clean the burns and cuts his wounds.
“Here.” Sokka said handing over the supplies.
“Thanks. I need you to help me prop him up, ok?” Katara asked. Sokka nodded and they both moved him to the edge of the saddle. Katara went to work, wrapping his bandages and applying the gel. By the time she was done, almost both of Zuko’s arms and his left calf were completely covered in bandages with a few on his torso for the cuts.
“How’s he doing?” Aang asked.
“I did what I could. I have no idea how he will heal considering he is a firebender and Agni’s chosen. The burns look to be second degree at worst, first at best but that is onto the surface level, again, he doesn’t burn as easily so it’s hard to tell. The best we can do is let him rest.” Katara said. She was helping Zuko put his top back on.
“Alright.” Sokka said. Sokka moved over to Zuko and sat down next to him.
“Hey Zuko. How you feeling?” Sokka asked.
“M’cold.” Zuko muttered.
“You’re never cold.” Sokka said unable to keep the worry out of his voice.
“Firebending lets me keep warm but don’t have energy right now….” Zuko said sluggishly.
“Oh.” Sokka said. “Katara, pass me my parka.”
Katara nodded and handed over the blue, fur lined coat. Sokka took it gratefully and slid it onto Zuko’s frame, pulling the hood on.
“Thanks.” Zuko mumbled, leaning back into the bed rolls they’d propped him on.
“Sokka?” Zuko whispered
“Yeah?” Sokka asked, still sitting next to Zuko. They were far enough that they weren’t touching but close enough that if Zuko fell Sokka could catch him.
“Thanks. For hitting Jet earlier. For standing up for me.” Zuko said.
“Of course.” Sokka said smiling. Zuko smiled softly. Sokka decided right then and there that Zuko had the prettiest smile he’d ever seen.
Zuko wasn’t getting attached to Sokka. No, not at all.