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Chapter Text

3rd POV (kinda in Aangs POV but more 3rd person)

It was just the morning after Zuko joined the ‘little group’, everyone but Zuko was sitting around the fire while Katara and Aang made breakfast. It was a quiet morning, Aang was chopping up vegetables while Katara stirred some jook in a pot. Sokka was laying down, tossing his boomerang in the air. And Toph was making houses and figures with her earthbending. This was normally the Gaangs ideal morning, having done this 100 times over. But today there was an uncomfortable blanket of air surrounding them.

Suddenly Sokka broke the tense silence from his spot on the floor, “Soooooo… Zuko? Personally I never really expected him to join our group. Much less offer himself up to be our prisoner, but I'm not gonna lie, it was a little satisfying to see”

Toph cackled “I'll say, I know all of you guys hate him and what-not but i'm just excited to have a personal taxi because you know…”she pointed at her feet, wiggling her toes “burnt feet” she laughed, grinning with a mischievous sparkle in her eye (Aang is a little worried for the amount of guilt tripping that will be inflicted on Zuko)

Katara made an upset noise and Aang turned to look at her, she had her back turned to him but he could already imagine the look on her face.

He turned away from her so he could dump the chopped vegetables into the pot, and then sat back into the palms of his hands “I think it's nice, at least we know he won't be attacking us anymore, right?” he chuckled awkwardly.

“you don't know that” katara snapped, gesturing in the air “for all we know hes just waiting for the perfect moment to kidnap you and frolic over to his evil fire family” she paused passing a bowl of jook to aang “I know that you need a firebending teacher but I don't trust him, just-” she passed a bowl to Toph and turned to look at Aang “just promise me to be careful when you're around him, okay?”

“I promise Katara” he took a big bite, speaking around it “altho..mm, thith ith delithious!” He paused to swallow “Thank you for the food Katara :D”.
Katara smiled at him and placed a bowl on the side and then serving herself a bowl.

Sokka snatched his bowl and immediately put some jerky in it, taking a bite“speaking of which, where is Zuko anyways?”

Aang thought about it for a little bit, and then turned to sokka “maybe he slept in?”

“No, he's awake” Toph said suddenly

Sokka whipped his head to look at her “What do you mean he's awake!? If he's awake then why hasn't he come to eat breakfast?”

Toph shrugged and sat up “ I don't know, all I know is that he was up wayyyyyyy before you guys and he's been spending his time in the courtyard doing exercises or something”.

Aang took the last bite and put his bowl to the side “maybe he lost track of time? I should probably go get him” he stood up and picked up his glider .

Katara angrily shoved a spoon of food into her mouth, taking a few seconds to swallow “why should we share with him. We don't owe him anything, just leave him be. He probably has a bunch of food stocked up from when he followed us.” She said, crossing her arms and glaring at the floor “ I don't want to waste our resources on him.”

Aang walked over to the edge and turned back to Katara “Listen I know that it's awkward to have him around but I can't just let him starve, I at least need to know if he has his own food or not. I'll be back in a little bit” He opened his glider and leaped up, flying towards the courtyard

Aangs POV:
After passing a few buildings I spotted Zuko in the middle of the courtyard, training with his two swords ‘what were they called again?’ I thought to myself before landing a few feet vehind Zuko “Hi Zuko!” I said waving at him.

Zuko jumped at the sudden noise and whipped around with his swords pointed at me, I took a few steps back “whoah, it's just me” I raised my hands in front of me.

Zuko lowered his swords, blinking a bit before rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly “Oh, hi Aang. Sorry for… that. Did you need something?” He sheathed his swords and started wiping himself with a towel.

“No I don't need anything, I just wanted to let you know that we have breakfast ready”

Zuko paused and put his swords away, standing awkwardly “Oh, thank you, but I've already had breakfast. I have some leftover rations from when I… er- followed you” Zuko looked down at his feet and shuffled uncomfortably

I tilted my head at him “You do? Well that's good, I wouldnt want you to starve.” Zuko looked up at me and smiled a little bit, before his mouth made a little ‘o’, as if he remembered something “Oh, by the way, when do you want to start your firebending training? I was thinking later today but you might be… busy? I know you might not be really comfortable with it but the sooner the better”

I smiled at him “umm, yeah okay, maybe later today? If I'm being honest, I'm a little nervous to start.” I looked down at my feet “The last time I tried to firebend, I did something I regret” I twiddled with the end of my robe, before looking back up at Zuko

He stared at me for a little bit, contemplating what to say next. He put his towel down, looking back up at me.“Okay, later today is fine. When we start we won't do anything big though, I'll just show you some basic katas and breathing exercises.” he turned around, unsheathing his swords and returning to his kata position, clearly ending the conversation. I stood there awkwardly for a bit “okay, thank you Zuko, when your rations are done don't be afraid to join us for food” he barely turned to me and nodded and continued practicing.

‘well, I guess that's that,’ Aang thought, taking his glider out and heading back to their camp.

Chapter Text

Later during lunch:

3rd POV: ( still a little bit more in Aangs POV but not completely)

Aang flew down from the forest with a bunch of foraged vegetables in his arms, and headed over to where Katara was preparing for lunch. While she stoked the fire, he squatted down and placed them on a slab of stone Katara had perched up. “thank you Aang, can you please go tell Sokka to get some more firewood?” Aang smiked and started walking over to where he had last seen Sokka . “Of course Katara, be right back ''

As he was walking away he briefly heard Katara yell at toph for getting dirt on the veggies she was cutting. He walked over to the edge of the building where Sokka was practicing with his boomerang. Aang suddenly had The Best Idea in his entire life and hid behind a pillar, waiting for the best moment to strike. He giggled quietly to himself as Sokka threw his boomerang and he started to airbend the boomerang to go in a bunch of janky directions.
“What the hell!?” Sokka exclaimed “Boomerang! Come back! Who gave you permission to fly that direction????” Sokka waved his arms while yelling. Aang sent the boomerang to the left and then straight towards Sokka.

“Huh? Where are you goin-... WAIT BOOMERA- OW” The boomerang hit Sokka on the head, making him fall backwards. He grabbed his boomerang, glaring and pointing at it “bad boomerang! You're supposed to hit everything but me, and after all that we've been through. After all of the bad guys we've defeated… you just turn around and hit me in the head, betraying me” Aang watched him pout and push his boomerang away, dramatically putting a hand over his head. Aang chose this moment to come out from hiding “Hi Sokka :), what are you up to?”

Sokka slowly looked over at Aang “oh nothing much, just getting betrayed by my most trusted object. How about you? Has your glider betrayed you yet? I bet it didn't. Your glider probably appreciates all that you've done for it, hasn't it Aang?” Sokka pouts at him, sniffling a bit. Aang has to stifle a giggle and points over at the campsite “Katara asked if you could go collect firewood for lunch. And no, my glider hasn't betrayed me just yet. But I wish you the best with your boomerang! Bye Sokka!” Aang turns around and hears Sokka grumble something that sounded like ‘maybe I should throw you into a tree and leave you there overnight, maybe that will teach you to appreciate me’. Aang laughs and starts walking back to camp

He was halfway there when he saw Zuko still practicing with his katas and swords ‘Dao he remembered Zuko calling them’, he walked over and waved to him “Hey Zuko, we're about to start making lunch right now. You should come Join us!”. Zuko stopped and turned to him, shuffling awkwardly. “I still have my leftover food saved. I can just go eat that'' Aang smiled at him “That's okay, you don't have to eat our food, but I still think you should join us. In our group we normally eat together and make conversation. I know you’re new and not everyone here trusts you, but that’s why I think it'd be good if we all got to know each other”.

Zuko shuffled and looked around nervously “I don't think you'd want me there, I know that after all I did that it could be uncomfortable for you and your friends, especially the waterbender.” Aang tilted his head and looked at him “you mean Katara? I mean yeah she's not very fond of you but that's exactly why you should sit with us! If we get to know you then maybe Katara will like you better, and the rest of us will be able to get along better with you…. Pleaseeeeee”. Aang gave Zuko puppy dog eyes and leaned closer to him, Zuko took a step back looking conflicted but in the end mumbled a ‘fine.’ and walked with aang to the campsite. The closer they got, the more zuko nervously looked around and fiddled with his fingers.

When they reached the campsite, Zuko sat against a pillar a little far from them. Katara glared at Zuko but continued to make the food with no comment. Sokka was shuffling through his pack and toph immediately sat near Zuko and rested her feet on him, Zuko jumped and made a noise of confusion while looking around for help. Help from who? Aang didn't know, soon Zuko will learn the unstoppable force that is Toph Beifong.

-

Aang and Katara were making light conversation until Sokka groaned with frustration and pouted, Aang looked over “what's wrong Sokka?”. Sokka flopped to the ground “I ran out of jerky, I used the last of it this morning” Aang watched sokka sulk for about 3.2 seconds before Zuko suddenly spoke out “um- I have dried meat if you want some” everyone turned to look at him, he hunched in on himself and averted his gaze. “I-i mean, only if you want it” (Btw I'm not making Zuko all uwu boy, he's stuttering bc he's nervous AF, like Katara had literally told him she would kill him the night before)

Sokka immediately brightened and scrambled to a half standing up and half on the knee position “YES- um- I mean, yes, I would love some. Where is it?” He stood up and rushed over to zuko “you don't even know how serious I am, I. Need. Meat.” Toph laughed “that's what she said”
Sokka waved her off and turned back to Zuko “so, you amazing human being, where's my lifeline?”

“I can go get it, I'll be right back” Zuko got up and started to walk over to his room. Aang watched as Sokka plopped down next to him, sighing contently “I think Zuko is gonna fit in just right” Toph snorted and looked amused “What? The moment he has meat then he's the love of your life?”. Sokka rolled onto his stomach to look at her “Love of my life AND savior, get it right. And yes, he might've been evil and chased us around the whole world like a total lunatic, but I'm shallow and I like meat so-” He sticks his tongue out and blew a raspberry.

After a little while Zuko steps out of the shadows holding a box and a bag “I got your meat.” Zuko says, walking towards them. Sokka startles and lets out a very manly screech (his words). Zuko walked over and kneeled next to him, handing him the bag “Here, it has a few varieties in there. And um- I brought some dried vegetables if you want it…for your jook” He held out the box and glanced nervously between Aang and Katara, Aang grabbed it and opened it looking at the contents “Wow! Thank you Zuko, This even has Bok Choy! This will probably last us a few meals”. Aang passes the box to Katara while Zuko nods and heads back to where Toph is making a bunch of figures with her bending. OkAang turns “that was pretty nice of him wasn't it Katara?” Katara grumbled and aggressively stirred. “He probably had too much left over and decided to take pity on us lowly peasants.” he frowned at her, “Katara… I know you're upset with him, but Toph could tell he wasn't lying, I believe he wants to help us. The monks always taught us to see the good in people, he was probably just trying to help” she sighed and looked over at him."I know what the monks taught you, but sometimes it's different. And he's already broken my trust before, I just want to make sure it doesn't happen again. You have tounderstand that Aang.” he opens his mouth to respond but Katara interrupts him “Listen, I'll tolerate him for now. You need a firebending teacher, I won't go out of my way for him but until we end this stupid war, I'll tolerate him. Nothing else though.” Aang beamed at her “thank you katara, I know it's hard for you and this means a lot to me”. Katara smiled lightly at him and went back to stirring the jook.

Aang glanced over to where Zuko and Toph were talking, well- more like Toph was using him as a footrest while boasting about all of they guys she's beaten up…. And Zuko was sitting there. Aang smiled fondly anyways, he's glad Zuko is getting comfortable with Toph. Even though he wishes Zuko was comfortable with Aang himself, he understands. But he knows that at some point, one way or another. Zuko will have no choice but to become friends with the entire group.

“Food's ready! Everyone come get your bowls!” Katara yelled out, passing Aang and Sokka they're bowls. After serving herself she then standed up with two bowls and headed over to Toph and Zuko.

Toph immediately took hers without question, but Zuko gave her a confused look. Katara rolled her eyes and thrust the bowl closer to him “Here's your food.” She grit out. When Zuko just kept blinking at her, she scoffed “What!? You can't take the food of lowly peasants? Do you need to eat some gourmet feast or something!? Spirits, why do you have to be so infuriating! This is what I get for being nice!” She stood up and turned around, but before she could storm off Zuko grabbed her arm. Katara whipped around and glared at Zuko, he took his hand back upon realizing what he'd done “Sorry” Zuko muttered “It's not that, I just don't understand why you're giving me… this.” Katara squawked, “No! Not-... That's not how I meant it to sound, I mean, why are you giving me your food? It belongs to you, I just don't understand why you're sharing it if you know I have my own food?”

‘Why wouldn't we?” Aang called out from behind her “You're a part of our group now! That means sharing and helping each other out :)”. Katara looked at the floor “also because you gave us some of your rations even if you didn't need to” she mumbled.

“AND you got me meat! Which means I officially accept you” Sokka grinned at him, still stuffing his face with his meat infilled jook.

Zuko looked around at all of them, looking conflicted “You guys don't have to give me your food just because I shared my rations, I still have plenty. I wasn't trying to get your food?”.

Katara stared at him incredulously, she stood there for a few seconds before she groaned loudly and thrust the bowl into his hands “just take the jook! I poured you a bowl so just eat it!” She stood up and walked back to Aang, slumping down and finally eating her food.

Aang turned back to look at Zuko, he was stirring his jook and taking small tentative bites. Aang turned back to his food, opting to conversate with Sokka while eating.

-

Before Aang could finish eating, he noticed Zuko giving his bowl to Toph and then leaving towards the courtyard with his dad. He watched as Toph shovel the food into her mouth and letting out a satisfied burp.

He frowned and faced the direction Zuko had left, he wondered why Zuko hadn't finished his food. ‘maybe he had already eaten before? Yeah that's probably why’. Aang finished his food and stood up. He dusted off his robes and walked off to the courtyard

Upon arriving, Zuko noticed Aang and sheathed his dao. He walked off to the side, placing them on the ground and turning to him. “Are you ready to start your firebending training?”

Aang hesitated a little bit before walking to eh middle of the courtyard and bowing, “teach me sifu hotman” Zuko's eyebrow twitched but he bowed back

“Alright so first we're going to start with th...

-

Chapter Text

(aangs pov for now)

Aang has been stumbling through the languid movements Zuko has been showing him for the past hour and a half, they've been doing simple stretches and slowly going in and out of positions that would normally be accompanied by fire

The first 35 minutes consisted of awkwardly trying to make conversation, but all he got was short grunts of affirmation. Nothing else. After that he sort of gave up, continuing to try to match the balance and precision Zuko had. Now don't get him wrong, he's excited to be learning something new, even if it is fire bending, and even if it's..... necessary to stop the world from ending. But they've been doing the same thing for the past 30 minutes! In silence mind you! Only interrupted by Zuko's random criticism. Speaking of Zuko, why is he so quiet? He used to spend half his time chasing the group while yelling, but now he decides that he doesn't wan-

Aang snapped back to attention when he heard a grunt, he turned his head to Zuko who had sweat coating his brow and temples, he seemed to be restabilizing himself. Hmm, weird, they must've done that particular move at least three times, why only now is he losing balance? Aang watches as Zuko eventually stabilizes and continues to the next position as if nothing happened. Zuko paused and glanced at Aang, he snapped back into position, internally dying with the repetitiveness of it all.

Aang focuses on the birds chirping and the water flowing from the fountain, there was a soft, steady breeze that was rustling the trees above and a comforting creak of the upside down Airbender temples. He supposes that the movements aren't that bad, they're repetitive, so he can easily fall into a comfortable and meditative state. Aang smiled as the setting sun soaked into his skin, the warmth reminding him how not everything is bad. He almost forgets that he's not alone until he hears rubble crunch and a curse. 

Aang turned to look at Zuko again, who was struggling to lift his leg up in a mock kicking pose, he was panting slightly and kept having to put his foot down to steady himself.

"Umm, maybe we should take a break? Drink some water?" Aang smiled at Zuko, not missing how he grinded his teeth and furrowed his brow.

"No, we don't need a break yet, the set is almost done." Zuko switching to the next movements, Aang continues to look at him worriedly, hesitating a bit before following along.

He almost starts to zone out again before Zuko suddenly falls, twisting on his ankle and letting out a string of some... colorful, language. Aang reflexively moves to help him, arms outstretched to catch him. But he hesitates when he sees the angry look on Zuko's face, contorted in frustration and masked pain. He grunts and stands up, trying to act fine but ultimately failing as he stumbled and limps a bit. Zuko side eyes Aangs outstretched arms as if he just noticed him standing there, making the bald boy (ha) lower his arms, looking around awkwardly.

"So, you think we should... Take a break?" Aang says with a careful tone, not sure if Zuko would get mad. He kept glancing from Zuko's face to his hurt ankle, wondering how severe it is. 

Zuko's eye twitched, letting out a huff "I don't need a brea-!" He abruptly stopped, faltering as he looked up at Aangs worried face. Zuko stared for 2 seconds, before sighing, his shoulders slumping. "S-sorry... I guess a break would be fine." Zuko kept his eyes on the floor and rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. Aang smiled and grabbed their cups, bending some water from the fountain to fill them, he handed one to Zuko as he simoultaniously chugged his own.

They stood there awkwardly in silence, both drinking water but otherwise making no movement or sound. Zuko opened his mouth, then closed it, shuffling a bit and nervously picking at his nails, contemplatively. he opened his mouth again, not even able to get a syllable out before he was interrupted by a chittering flying lemur swooping in and landing comfortably on Aangs shoulders, chittering and pointing at his mouth and where their camp was set up. 

"Oh! Hi Momo! What is it? You hungry?" Aang smiled warmly as he scratched behind Momo's ear, he turned to look at the almost set sun. "Hm, I guess it is dinner time" Aang turned to Zuko, smiling brightly despite the disgruntled look on the others face. "I'm quite hungry! Who knew that would take up so much energy! By the way, is your ankle okay?". Aang said, furrowing his brows Zuko looks down at the ankle in question, frowning while carefully making quick steps to see how much it hurts. He was still limping a bit but otherwise seemed to walk fine. "It's fine, i've dealt with worse." Zuko mumbled out, still fiercely refusing to make eye contact. Aang frowned but didn't want to push it, Zuko had just joined a few days ago, he didn't want to set him off more than he already has.

Aang perked up at a distant echo of pots clattering, signaling that Katara was setting up the cooking space. Today was Aangs turn to cook, all they really had was water and rice, Aang had been foraging for whatever plants he could find, but it was never much. Buttttttt, yesterday when Zuko gave them the dried vegetables he had brought, it had dried tofu and miso paste. Aang excitedly thought about the miso and rice he was going to make, glad for the change in flavors. oh spirits. the best idea just crossed his mind. He turned to Zuko, who had already started picking up everything, grabbing his dao and shirt. Zuko didn't even realize that he was being looked at by Aang until he suddenly slid beside him, eyes bright and a large smile on his face. Zuko startled a bit, jumping slightly as he tilted his body to be facing Aang fully. Aang paused, he was a little surprised that Zuko had been surprised. Normally he was always aware of everything. Was it because.... his left eye did seem cloudy... Hm. Aang realizes he had been staring when Zuko shuffles in place and fidgets a bit, immediately remembering his original thought.

Aang jumped in place a little, excitement clear on his face. "Hello sifu hotman, who I was just talking to a few minutes ago" Zuko looked around awkwardly, giving a curt nod once he realized he was supposed to respond. Aang smiled at him then made a gesture to walk with him. "Sooo, today is my day to cook, which i'm going to be making rice and miso soup, courtesy of the box of dried veggies you gave us yesterday. And I was just about to go grab some spring onion I found in a patch in the forest, And I was wondering if you would like to cook with me? It's totally up to you! But it would probably help with Katara warming up to you?". Aang gave Zuko a hopeful look, he batted his eyelashes while leaning into Zuko's space, his hands clasped together in a pleading motion. Zuko was leaning away slightly, mouth wavering as he awkwardly considered it, but then he sighed. "Yeah, yeah i'll help you. It's the least I could do.". Aang cheered, jumping and boosting himself higher with his airbending. 

-

They made their way up to the forest, Aang making small talk as Zuko gave short answers. They quickly gathered some green onion and made their way back to camp, where Sokka was upside down and kicking off of a pillar, trying to do a Sarvangasana pose (Shoulder stand) while Katara and Toph talked animatedly. Toph occasionally pelting Sokka with pebbles. He was the first to notice the duo, attempting to wave while he was still in the Sarvangasana pose, which ended with him falling down with his legs over his head. Aang smiled at the group as Toph cackled and fell backwards, Katara turned to look behind her, smiling at Aang and pointedly ignoring Zuko.

"hey guys! Me and Zuko finished up for the day and now he's going to help me cook!" Aang waved, Momo jumping and gliding off of his shoulder to go peck around in Sokkas bag. 

Aang made quick work of filling up the pot with water and rice, putting it over the fire to cook. He then moved to the bigger pot, filling it up with water and adding the dehydrated tofu. Having already been given a role, Zuko started cutting the vegetables, some of them were crooked and uneven, and he even nicked himself a bit, but overall he did a decent job. Aang made small talk with Sokka, who was playing and throwing pebbles for Momo to chase, Zuko stayed quiet, but would occasionally glance at Sokka. His lips twitching into a small smile that was barely noticeable. Barely means it was noticeable, And Sokka noticed. 

Sokka had to do a double take, mouth gaping at the ex-nemesis who was smiling while stirring the pot. He stared for a good 10 seconds with a funny feeling stirring in his gut, only stopping when Zuko glanced up and noticed him. A soft, embarrassed blush spread across both of their faces, averting their eyes. Sokka panicked upon being caught and flicked the pebble he was using with Momo... right at Zuko. Not only did it hit Zuko on the cheek, but not even a second later, a 5 pound gliding lemur pounced right at his face, an 'oof' sound escaping his lips as he stumbled bawards in his sitting position. Momo scurried across his face like a landing pad while trying to find the rock. Everyone stops and stares at Zuko (except Toph fr), not daring to make a sound or move. A tense silence fell over the group, the only sound being momo scurrying around and the fire. Then there was a loud echoing snort, everyone snapped to Sokka who was doubled over, holding his stomach as he laughed. It started a chain effect Aang followed, then Toph, even Katara, who tried to hide her laugh under a cough and looked away. 

Zuko tried to pull Momo off, only successful in getting the lemur to move to his hair and out of his face. An embarrassed smile on his face and a blush slightly tinting his pale skin. Everyone calmed down as they continues their earlier ministrations, Sokka and Aang kept having a conversation, occasionally coaxing an answer out of Zuko, who still had Momo on his head. The lemur was purring and pawing at his head as Zuko would give him head scratches and sneaked in a few seeds. When the water was ready, Zuko threw in the chopped veggies and stirred it, it would be done in about 20 minutes so he put the lid back on to leave it. Aang set up some bowls, the rice had finished resting and was ready to be served, he added the roasted green onion and some sesame seeds to each bowl, setting them out while he grabbed some spoons. Sokka made quick work of snatching his bowl, immediately grabbing the jerky Zuko gave him and putting it on top, digging in and humming around the food contentedly. The others grabbed their bowls, Toph earthbended hers obviously, loudly chewing on the rice. Zuko was eyeing his rice, he took a bite of the green onion but otherwise made no other move to eat it. Aang saw this out of the side of his vision, turning to observe Zuko with a confused look. He just doesn't understand why Zuko won't eat it. Maybe he's allergic to something in it? Or he just doesn't like rice? 

Before he can say anything, someone else beats him to the question.

"Why won't you eat your rice?" Sokka blurts out his plate was almost empty and he had stray rice grains on his cheek. 

Zuko snapped to attention, looking up with a guilty expression. as if he had been caught. 

"Um, I'm just.." He pauses for a second, contemplating his next words. "I'm just not that hungry.." Zuko fidgets with the hem of his shirt, shuffling under the scrutinizing gaze. Sokka and Aang glanced at each other, with hints of disbelief in their eyes. 

"Okay macho man, if you say so. Buttttt, if you're not going to eat that.. I mean, I would just hate for that perfectly good rice to go to waste you know what I mean?" Sokka smiled, wriggling his eyebrows.

Zuko pushed the plate closer to Sokka, who immediately snatched it up and started to shovel it in his mouth. But not before he delicately sprinkled in ripped up jerky meat, then he continued destroying the plate of rice. As the soup had finished and everyone except Zuko got a bowl, they all chatted contentedely, enjoying their meal while Toph yet again made her way to terrorize Zuko. It was just a good 20 minutes after the sun set when Zuko stood up, bowing slightly with a muttered 'thank you' and 'sleep well', then walked off in the direction of his sleeping quarters. Aang was about to answer when Sokka whistled and cheered, catching the attention of Aang. He was holding two large bottles that was clearly cactus juice.

"Who's ready for a game!??"

Chapter Text

(Sokkas pov, the sun is just rising. also, the ' ' is sokkas thoughts)

'fuck.', is the first thing that crosses Sokkas mind as he blearily opens his eyes and looks around. He lifts his hand from his sleeping bag and puts it over his too-warm forehead, relishing in the cool contact from his skin. The sun is just barely rising, strays of light flitting through the trees above and hitting the side of the ravine. Sokkas sits up, all sleep fog leaving him suddenly. He yawns and stretches, scratching his chest while his other hand pats around the floor for his water bag. He has to look on the floor to actually grab it, he pops the cork off and lifts it up to his open mouth. And then he waits, and waits... and waits-. Sokka aggressively shakes the water skin, but nothing more than a singular drop comes out. 'Seriously? empty? The one time I didn't want to get up..'.

Sokka sighed, grunting when he left the comfy confines of his oh so warm sleeping bag, he silently sulked as he stumbled over in the direction of the fountain. He held his head, regretting ever challenging the girls to charades, speaking of the girls. Katara was definitely drunk last night, and that means that when she wakes up.... all hell will break loose. Sokka winced to himself at the thought, glancing at the sleeping form of his sister, she looked so peaceful. Sokka worried about her often, she was his younger sister and it pains him to see her under so much pressure. No matter how much they went through, this rag-tag team they have are still made up of kids. Even if three of them are prodigy benders, and one can't bend at all. Suddenly, her body shifted and he heard her grumble. Sokka immediately panicked and scurried off, almost tripping over some bags they had laying around. 'Nope, NOPE. I am NOT going to be there when she wakes up. It doesn't matter if she was just shifting a bit, I do not want to be the one to find out! No siree!'.

He made it to the fountain, sighing in relief at the near escape from certain death. He immediately scooped the cool running water onto his face, shivering a bit by the cold but otherwise feeling refreshed. He grabbed his water skin, then submerged it under the water to fill up, he diligently watched the bubbles escape the mouth of the bag. He pulled the full water skin to his mouth, sighing as he finally was able to quench his thirst. Sitting down on the slightly sun warm ridge of the fountain, he slumped his back and chugged the water, dipping it back into the fountain. He watched the golden sun rays trailing across the floor, his eyes following it as it slowly touched Zukos sleeping face-..... what?

Sokka did a double take, rubbing his eyes as if he was seeing things. 'Nope, He's still there... why is he sitting? with his eyes closed? Oh wait, he's meditating, hey! Aang meditates too!... He is meditating right?' Sokka slowly stands up, screwing the cork back onto the water skin, he took a few tentative steps as he blatantly stared at Zukos' calm face. 'Hm, that's so weird to look at. He looks so.... actually I don't even have a word for it.' He was so used to either seeing Zuko look like a toddler throwing a tantrum, to just looking straight uncomfortable. But yesterday, there was a small smile on Zukos' face, and he doesn't know how to explain it but it made something in his gut stir. And now, with the sun hitting his face... Zuko looks... serene. He felt a smile tug at his lips then stopped in his tracks. 'why am I staring at him like a creep?? Should I just go back to camp? Or... continue drinking water?'. Sokka looks around, turning to look in the direction of their camp, contemplating his next move. 'Should I ask him if he's awake? Aang sometimes gets annoyed when I interrupt his meditation, but Zuko isn't aang... wow. So insightful, that's quite a insightful thought you had there sokka! good job!'. Sokka rolled his eyes at himself. 'but it was true, would zuko get mad? or maybe just annoyed? or maybe he would blast me to smithereens... Or! maybe he actually is sleeping! Also.. Why the Fuck' is there a badgerfrog sitting next to him? Is it his pet? Or friend like appa for Aang? Would he get mad if I pet the badgerfro-'

"Do you need something?" 

Sokka whips his face back to the supposedly meditating- or sleeping boy, who had one eye cracked open and was giving him a confused look. Which he supposes is fair.

"Oh-uhm, no! I was just getting water.... You were meditating right? Because you kinda looked like you were asleep, but like- it's fine if you were i'm not saying anything about it! but you know... anyways, what are you even doing awake this early? Because I was really thirsty because I was kinda drunk last night- maybe you already knew that because we might've been loud... If we were bothering your sleep or anything you can say so, We might've used to be enemies but you're now a part of group, which- that's assuming you want to be a part of our group- even if you are.. but like-, you're doing this because you hate your daddy right? But also because you're secretly a softie under that harsh demeanor. I'm sure you're open to being friends right? Unless you're not- which is- I'm rambling. I'm rambling right? I'm going to ah... shut up now..." he laughed nervously, silently cursing his big mouth. He looked up to the sky while cringing 'Spirits, why can't I just talk to our pretty, teenage, ex-enemy, who would chase us around the globe while screaming like a spoiled baby normally?'. He slowly lowered his gaze to look at Zuko, who would surely be mad... oh. he's not, he just kinda looks awkward.

Zuko brought his fist to his mouth, coughing slightly to break the tension. He then spoke up, looking a little, amused?  "No..ah- it's fine. Yes, I was meditating, and yes, I heard you guys last night but that hardly bothered me. And i- don't really have an answer for your other... questions? Us, um.. Fire benders, rise with the sun, so that's why i'm awake. I normally meditate, or try to meditate until you guys wake up.". Zuko smiled at him politely, with some awkward undertones.

Sokka slumped to the floor, resting his back against the fountain and letting out a drawn out sigh, he took another swig of his water. His eyes trailed down from Zukos face to the badgerfrog that was croaking right next to the raven haired boy. He snorted as it croaked and nudged Zukos fidgeting finger until he pet it, the frog settled down immediately. That was... cute, Sokka couldn't help but notice how animals liked Zuko, well, he only noticed because Aang pointed it out. They were chatting yesterday and apparently Aang has seen both Momo and Appa gravitate towards him since he arrived. hm. nice thought, but the silence has gone on for too long. Someone needs to speak up and who else here is a professional yapper? It doesn't start with 'Z'

Sokka decided now was as good a time as any to bother their new member, how else would he know how trustworthy Zuko is? 

"So, is that yourrrrr, pet?" Sokka smirked and gestured to the badgerfrog, amusement clear in his voice. "Or maybe your friend? Like Appa and Aang?". He watched Zuko expectantly as he blushed and looked down at the badgerfrog, only then noticing that he was petting the frog. Zuko attempted to pull his hand away but the it croaked indignantly, making him put his hand back down. Sokka couldn't help but snicker while watching the interaction, he couldn't help but feel like Zuko could actually make a good friend. Plus, if Momo and appa trusted Zuko, then surely he could? That's how it worked right?. Zuko cleared his throat, making Sokka turn his attention back to him.

"No, she's uh.. not my pet. Or my friend... Just a badgerfrog that won't leave me alone" Zuko stated in a tired tone, a slight smile and a blush still apparent in his cheeks. "You uhhh... you wanna pet her? You uhm, keep looking at her.". Zuko awkwardly gestured to the badgerfrog, eyes looking everywhere but Sokka. 

'Holy shit, fuck yeah man. I CAN PET THE BaDGERFROGGGGGGGGG' He internally screamed as he nodded and shuffled closer, trying and failing to look nonchalant. Sokka tentatively glided his fingers across the soft fur stripes on the badgerfrogs back, he smiled to himself, chuckling when she made some weird garbled purring noise that he'd never heard before. He glanced up at Zuko and paused, he had a soft smile splayed across his face as he looked down at the little guy. It was definitely clear that this boy liked animals, and it was kind of relieving to see, it was definitely a welcome change to what he used to be. Suddenly Sokka spoke up, a brilliant idea crossing his mind.

"hey, I know you're kinda used to being all on your own and brooding and stuff, but what if you hung out with us? I mean, what better way to break the metaphorical ice then to join us for some fun? Me and Toph were already planning on going around to explore the forest and try to find some caves. It'd be shabanging if you joined us!" He said excitedly, looking at Zuko expectantly. 

Zuko looked puzzled, fidgeting again as he opened his mouth, "I-uhm.. I don't know. You don't have to invite me to hang out with you guys just because I'm going to be helping Aang. I understand that I chased you guys half across the world while trying to capture the Ava- Aang. nothing will be able to redeem my actions and I know you know that, It won't hurt my feelings if you don't involve me. Plus, I'm not sure if I want to bother your uh... Sister? K- katrina? Katar- uhm.. I don't know her name, sorry." Zuko looked down and messed with his shirt. His words made made Sokka frown, and he wasn't sure why Zuko felt that way.

"Her name is Katara, and i'm not inviting you just because you joined our group, I mean, Toph has already claimed you as a taxi and you gave me meat so we're obviously sisters from another mister, as the saying goes." Sokka chuckled at his own joke then stood up, doing a big stretch. He extended his hand to Zuko to help him up, but ah, alas, he was already halfway up. Sokka awkwardly lowered his arm, but still determined to get him to join whatever shenanigans he and Toph would get to. 

"Plus, you gotta lose those stiff shoulders, chillax man, I know the, you know, big bad fight between the Avatar and your daddy is soon. But it's all good man, we're the good guys here, so obviously we're gonna win. So what do you say? Wanna hang out with me and Toph? BUT! only after breakfast because I am hungryyyyy". Sokka smiled, dramatically flailing his arms around as he spoke.

"Okay, as long as you're okay with it", Zuko smiled timidly, but he still seemed unsure. Sokka couldn't help but snile a little brighter, not even because Zuko is pretty! But it's so strange seeing this change. Which. Yeah, he admits it. Zuko is pretty. He's not shy to admit it! Sokka might've been a little sexist before but he is NOT homophobic.

Sokka smiled proudly at himself, then gestured for Zuko to follow. "Okay! great, but like I said, I am hungryyyyy, and you should eat, unless you ate already? Nevermind, eat anyway, so you can get all big and strong and awesome and cool and big and swole just like me!". Sokka emphasized his words by flexing his arms dramatically, when he looked at Zuko, He had a bewildered but somehow blank look on his face. It. Was. Hilarious. Sokka wheezed, clutching his ribs, walking backwards towards the camp as Zuko stumbled along.

"What? What'd I do?" Zuko asked, there was this look of deep concentration on his face, as if he was solving the hardest problem. But no, He just didn't get the joke.

Sokka laughed again "Nothing! Don't worry about it man! Let's just go eat"

Chapter Text

(Pov sokka)

Zuko had ended up cooking for everyone again. When Sokka had mentioned he wanted eggs, Zuko took him on a detour to a birds nest he had noticed the day prior. He robbed the birds and brought them to camp, making rice and eggs for everyone, and tofu and bok choy for aang. Luckily Katara was happy enough with the eggs that she barely had much complaint, especially when zuko gave her dried chili flakes with it. Zuko was saving his ass left and right. 

After they ate, Katare made sure that Sokka and Toph were dressed for the sun, reluctantly warning Zuko as well. Once they changed, Topu and sokka dragged Zuko with them as they climbed up the ravine and giggled at stupid things. Sokka was having a great time, Toph was just the right amount of chaotic and hyper. Which meant just as Sokka had a less than disastrous idea, she was already thinking the same thing. And don't get him started on how funny it was when Zuko got slapped in the face by a red bird they had spooked when Toph shot a rock at a tree. Seeing the feathers stuck in his hair and the bewildered look on his face just absolutely killed Sokka, poor Toph, she couldn't even see the art that was his face.

They had been out for quite a few hours already, finding endless things to do. The sun was a little more than a quarter through the sky already and they had been trailing a river, a river that was shiny from the sun... and fish. Sokka was getting hungry, and by the sound of Tophs stomach rumbling, she was hungry too. He glanced behind himself, where Zuko had been trailing behind them. He was looking at a white butterfly on a flower, still holding the acorn Toph had given him earlier. Sokka couldn't but feel giddy at the calm... 'what would that acorn taste like? I swear aang has mentioned eating acorns .. or were those chesnuts?.... IM HUNGRY'. Sokka patted his stomach as he whistled to Toph, who had gotten ahead.

"Hey, are any of you guys hungry? Because I've been seeing some fish in the river, and I don't know about you but I'd be pretty into some food right about now." Zuko snapped his head up from his butterfly watching and walked to see what Sokka was looking at.

"I thought you would never ask, though I'm not gonna fish so I hope one of you know how to do that shit." Toph smirked, abandoning them to sit on a nice rock in the shade, not at all ashamed at making them do all of the dirty work. Zuko glanced to Sokka, giving him a shrug and silently walking to a tree to break off some thin sticks. He then made his way over to the rock Toph had taken purchase on.

Sokka stood there awkwardly until Zuko glanced up and gestured him over. Wordlessly handing him some sticks and pulling out a knife, shaving off the tips to make them sharp.

'Ohhhhh, that's what he's doing.', Sokka smiled as he slipped down next to Zuko, getting his own knife out and making the sticks sharp. Toph made conversation, as he and Zuko worked in a steady rhythm. Sokka wordlessly handed Zuko the rope he always carried on him before the other could ask for it, years of conditioning keeping him hunt ready. It felt... domestic, Sokka couldn't help but smile to himself as he remembered when he and Katara would talk and play around as they did chores together.

Zuko finished first and stood up, walking over to the river as he grabbed the rope with his left hand and held the makeshift spear in his other. He lifted it up in a throwing position, watching diligently for a good target. Oh man, Sokka had noticed the sleevless tunic Zuko put on earlier, but only now was he clocking that the guy was wearing a sleeveless tunic. The definition in his arms and back easily visble as Zuko moved. He stared like a deer in headlights as he gawked at how Zukos muscles shifted when he threw the spear and hit a fish dead on, reeling it in against the current. 'I understand katara now... I can never make fun of her again for gushing about a guys arms or abs. Does Zuko have abs? Maybe... but even if there's definition, he's still pretty lean. And skinny. Should I make him eat more meat? He could eat this mea-',  his more than embarrassing thought process was rudely interrupted by a green wearing goblin kicking him with her foot. Sokka whipped his head to give Toph a questioning glare.

"Hey! What was that fo-!" 

"Why is your heart beating so hard?" Toph interupted bluntly, again, she was sat up and staring at Sokkas general direction. A mean blush spread across his face and he spluttered, quickly glancing at Zuko, who was already onto his next kill. Sokka turned back to Toph, "What do you mean my heart's beating hard? I have no clue what you're talking about." He pouted and crossed his arms, looking away pointedly even if she wouldn't notice 

Toph paused for a good three seconds before she started cackling loudly, punching her knee. "Oh my god!" Then in a whisper yell, "do you like him!? I mean, I already knew you were zesty, you gush about men way too much to not be... but Zuko??" She laughed again. 

Sokka was blushing so hard his cheeks hurt, he squinted at Toph as she cackled. "Hey! One, I'm not ashamed! Two! Would you be quiet!? He's right over there!" He emphasized his point by gesturing wildly with his hands.... even if that was incredibly pointless.

"I didn't know you were into the broody, daddy issues type." She giggled

"I-I'm not!... alright I am a little bit, but I can't help it! Toph please stop being so loud, I think he'd incinerate me if he heard. It's not my fault he's pretty and has nice arms and nice hai-..... I hope you fall off a cliff." Sokka glared at Toph as she had another fit of giggles.

"How? Because we literally just started to get to know him, I mean, i know you get crushes easily but not THIS easily!" 

"It's just a tiny crush, and if you could see you would think so too!" Sokka blurted out.

"No I wouldn't because I like women!"

"I-You do?" 

"Yes, im in love with Katara."

"...really!?"

"No."

"Then what-"

"I'm done." 

Sokka whipped his head up at the new voice, Zuko was standing right in front of them. Holding three dead fish, still impaled. Toph snorted, making Sokka look back at her. She smirked triumphantly, her arms crossed proudly, 'what a little asshole.' Sokka glanced down at his not yet done spears and quickly finished tying them to the rope, standing up and excusing himself so he could get the next three fish. He glanced behind himself and as Zuko plopped down, criss cross, and started a mini bonfire, stabbing the sticks into the ground. There was a pile of rope beside him, saving them so they could be reused. 'Man he works quick'.

Sokka quickly got to work after that, focusing on the fishes as he looked for a good target, he locked onto a shiny and colorful one, it looked real yummy. Sokka quickly adjusted his arm and threw his spear quickly, it hit dead on, the spear piercing all the way through it. Sokka cheered to himself, smirking proudly as he reeled in the fish. It was still wriggling around a bit when he grabbed it, but nothing the big man himself wasn't used to.

After harpooning the last two fish, he quickly gutted them, throwing the organs back into the river and muttering a quick thank you to Tui and La for the fish. He then trecked back over to their little fire and plopped down on Zukos right, the first three fish seemed to have already finished cooking, seeing as toph was already destroying what he assumed was her second one. Sokka copied Zuko and stabbed his own sticks into the dirt, leaning them towards the fire. He sat back on his hands and sighed, glancing over at Zuko, who was eating a fish of his own.

Sokka lightly nudged Zuko with his elbow, causing Zuko jump and look over to the offender, he was still mid bite and had a look like he was just caught stealing candy. Sokka snorted, shaking his head as Zuko gave him a grumpy questioning look. 

"Where'd you learn to hunt like that? Do they like... teach that in Prince school or something?" Sokka smirked at him, amusement clear in his voice.

Zuko swallowed his bite and huffed, "My uncle taught me.. after we... defected. We didn't really have money when we traveled, so I had to learn." He took another bite of his food, still holding eye contact with Sokka.

Sokka snorted and flopped his head onto his shoulder (as in sokka is not leaning on Zuko, but his own shoulder). "Good thing he did, and really well too! You would make a great water tribe hunter, could've used more help back then..... when the fuck is this fish gonna be ready." Sokka huffed, nudging one of the sticks with his foot. He perked up as he heard Zuko snicker, glancing over at him. "What?" He said with a smile.

"Look.", Zuko whispered and gestured his head towards where Toph was.... she was laying like a starfish, her body bending on the round rock. She looked silly as fuck, especially because she was really focused on blowing a leaf into the air. Sokka snickered as well, covering his mouth. 

Sokka was just about to make another comment when Zuko stretched past him, grabbing the fish and handing one to Sokka, moving the other two to the side so they could cool off. Sokka blew on the fish, using his knife to make cuts into the fish so it could cool off faster.

"I don't think your tribe would like me very much... but yeah, my uncle was... really wise. I really should've listened to him more." Zuko fiddled with the fish bones, lookin down somberly.

Sokka turned and studied Zuko thoughtfully, wondering why he was having such a sad reaction. "...well.. tell me about him, what was he like?".  Sokka shuffled so he could eat his fish and give zuko his full attention. 

Zuko thought for a bit, leaning back and looking up at the clouds. "He's stubborn, overbearing, loves tea, likes Pao Sho, old..." Zuko snorted, smiling a bit and turned to look at Sokka. "He was incredibly unfunny. Once, before i woke up he tried to cheer me up by getting me honey from a bees nest.... except it was a hornets nest. I woke up to him screaming at me to run, we went for three miles until we jumped in a lake". Zuko groaned, then threw his hands into the air. "And they didn't even go away! The only reason they went away was because I accidently set a dry bush on fire! And it just happened to repel them!" Zuko huffed exasperatedly, crossing his arms grumpily. 

Sokka had already been laughing at the fact that his uncle tried getting honey from a hornets nest, but imagining back then, angry, evil, Zuko, scrambling awake and running from some bugs? It had Sokka spitting out his fish and cackling, he clutched his stomach. Making Toph look up at them questioningly. Zuko stewed angrily but quickly fell into a snickering fit, a small snort escaping. 'He scrunches his face when he laughs... WHY AM I SUCH A FREAK, OH MY SPIRITS, HES JUST LAUGHING. SHUT UP SOKKA-'. 

Zuko was now looking at the sky, a really really pretty 'shutup' smile on his face. Zuko then turned to look at Sokka, startling the wwater tribe boy out of his seemingly now hourly staring session.

"I guess he was actually pretty funny, even if it ended with us getting into more than a few... undesirable, situations... I definitely miss him, he was always there for me. Even when I messed up, and I messed up a lot... Is she asleep?". Zuko seemingly snapped out of his wump, pointing to Toph, who was now half off of the rock, her legs still hooked on it.

'Did she fall asleep? I guess we kinda did stay up a little late yesterday, and she's is just 12. I needed naps at that age... but I was also hunting often, and we never had much food. Speaking of food, Zuko ate two fish, which is good, and he also ate almost his whole plate of food at breakfast. And he's been opening up! Good progress! Why wasn't he eating much before then? Maybe he just had too much nervous energy to eat, but now that hes more comfortab-'. His thought process was interupted by Toph groaning loudly. 'Oh. She's awake.'

"Are you guys done eating? Playing with a leaf gets boring after the first 5 minutes you know." Toph yelled out, she was now propped up on her elbows, kicking her feet. 

"Alright, yeah let's go." Sokka stood up and stomped on the fire, kicking the loose dirt onto it. Once he was satisfied, he stretched his legs and outstretched his hand to the still sitting Zuko. And this time, he actually took it! Progress! Sokka heaved Zuko up, and gathered up the almost forgotten rope, tossing it into his small travel bag. And yes, it was pretty, and colorful, and he spent a lot of money on it. 

They quickly gathered any of their leftover things, walking back near the trees so they could continue exploring the forest... Actually nevermind because Sokka just had a wonderful idea. 

"We should go explore a cave, there has to be some around here right Toph?"