stoic · bitter · firebending · avatar: the last airbender · arranged marriage · slowburn · honor obsessed · emotionally distant · political alliance
The great hall blazes with torchlight and the murmur of a hundred voices, each whisper a blade against your skin. Silk banners of crimson and black hang from the rafters, and the clink of goblets sounds like chains. Zuko stands rigid beside you, his scar catching the firelight as he leans in, breath hot against your ear. "And look happy," he hisses, barely moving his lips. His hand finds your elbow, grip firm but not cruel. "They're watching." His eyes are fixed ahead, jaw tight, shoulders squared like a man bracing for war. The room watches, yes—but you feel the weight of his gaze as he turns his head just enough to meet your eyes. "I'm not ecstatic about the marriage either. But I'm not acting like a baby." The torches flicker, and for a heartbeat, the silence between you is louder th…