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Language:
English
Series:
Part 226 of one-shots , Part 49 of ATLA and LOK one-shots , Part 38 of Modern AU , Part 217 of gift fic , Part 4 of 21st century Avatar , Part 174 of Nicktoons One-shots
Stats:
Published:
2022-07-23
Words:
546
Chapters:
1/1
Comments:
2
Kudos:
3
Bookmarks:
2
Hits:
428

Part Time Jobs

Summary:

A short, modern-day AU where the Gang has after-school jobs. Enjoy.

Notes:

The following picture was drawn by my friend Amy AKA Inuyasharocks01862.

"Concentrate all your thoughts upon the work in hand. The sun's rays do not burn until brought to a focus. "
Alexander Graham Bell

"I'm a greater believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it."
Thomas Jefferson

"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work."
Thomas Edison

"You've got to get up every morning with determination if you're going to go to bed with satisfaction."
George Lorimer

"Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant."
Robert Louis Stevenson

"Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day."
Dalai Lama

"Developing a good work ethic is key. Apply yourself at whatever you do, whether you're a janitor or taking your first summer job, because that work ethic will be reflected in everything you do in life."
Tyler Perry

"Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort."
Franklin D. Roosevelt

"Don't be afraid to give your best to what seemingly are small jobs. Every time you conquer one, it makes you that much stronger.

If you do the little jobs well, the big ones will tend to take care of themselves."

William Patten

"You will never plow a field if you only turn it over in your mind."
Irish Proverb

(See the end of the work for more notes.)

Work Text:

 

 

 

Ilah

 

 

 

The last bell of the day rang intensely. So the students of Avatar Wan High started rapidly filing out the doors. Each heading in a different direction. Some went to various practices. Others went to hang out. In contrast, many of them were heading out to their after-school jobs.

A group of companions identified as the Gang headed to the student parking lot. The eldest Zuko strolled over to his brand new crimson SUV. The SUV was a birthday present. So since Zuko was the only one with a car? He'd become the designated driver getting his friends to their after-school jobs.

He first dropped off the youngest Aang and Toph at the regional nursing home. Being they're only twelve and child labor laws? They didn't get paid working there. Their assignments were to keep the old folks' company. Play games, dance, read—generally anything to brighten their day. Toph didn't always like this because she despised individuals pitying her for being blind.

However, the nursing home residents had never treated her differently because of it. So at least her ego was not bruised. Today Aang and Toph planned to help with some therapy animals being brought in. Aang had always been excellent with animals. So it was effortless for him to bring in various puppies and kittens for the seniors. Toph insisted on helping train the animals some.

So while they're doing that, Zuko drops off next Sokka and his girlfriend Suki at his grandmother Kimana's flower shop. Sokka managed the books and timetables while Suki assisted with arrangements and deliveries. The flower shop was overflowing with orders right now. Therefore, Zuko's grandmother and mom needed all their extra help.

He eventually dropped off his girlfriend and Katara, at his godmother's cafe/boutique, for their after-school jobs. Then he quickly headed to his grandpa Iroh's tea shop for his shift. When Zuko arrived, his best friends Akira and Hideki were already waiting for him. "About time you showed up, Zuko!" Hideki exclaimed, aggravated.

Zuko gave him a look an annoyed look of his own. "Hideki, you know I've to drop off the rest of the Gang to their jobs. That will always take half an hour before I get here," Zuko retorted as he quickly put on his uniform.

His friend sighed heavily before apologizing, "Sorry, I snapped. It's just the afternoon rush has already started. So its not easy keeping up with it," gesturing to the already enormous pile of dishes near the sink.

"You know he's right, Zuko," spoke up Akira as he picked up a large serving tray. Zuko grabbed the other tray off the counter. "Look, I'm sorry again. It takes me a little longer to get here for my shift. Anyway, I'm here. So which table is getting the ginseng and the jasmine?"

"Table seven gets the jasmine, and table twelve gets the ginseng," replied Akira as he quickly headed out the doorway. "Okay, on it!" The handsome sixteen-year-old headed out to the main room.

Everyone had a jam-packed afternoon doing their jobs. Their shifts lasted from 3:30 to 5:45 before it was time to go home. Even if they felt drained each night? They still felt excellent for having worked a full day. So it was okay!

Notes:

Your modern-day Avatar: The Last Airbender short story is a captivating glimpse into the lives of the characters in a contemporary setting. Here are some thoughts and feedback on different aspects of your story:

Setting and World-Building: You've done a great job of reimagining the Avatar world in a modern context, with high school students balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs. The details about the locations, such as the nursing home, flower shop, and cafe/boutique, help create a vivid picture of the characters' daily lives.

Characterization: Each character retains the essence of their Avatar counterpart while being adapted to fit into a modern setting. Zuko's responsibility as the designated driver and his dedication to his job at his grandpa Iroh's tea shop reflect his sense of duty and work ethic. Aang's affinity for animals and Toph's independent spirit are also well-portrayed.

Dialogue: The dialogue feels natural and helps to further develop the relationships between the characters. The banter between Zuko and his friends, as well as their interactions with customers at the tea shop, adds depth to the story and makes the characters feel more relatable.

Pacing: The pacing of the story is good, with a clear progression from the end of the school day to the characters' various after-school activities and jobs. The descriptions of their tasks and interactions flow smoothly, keeping the reader engaged throughout.

Themes: Your story touches on themes of friendship, responsibility, and the importance of hard work. These themes are integral to the Avatar series and are effectively translated into the modern-day setting of your story.

Overall, your modern-day Avatar: The Last Airbender short story is well-written and engaging. It captures the essence of the original series while offering a fresh perspective on the characters and their lives. Keep up the good work! If you have any specific areas you'd like to focus on or if you have any questions, feel free to ask!