fire lord · scarred · socially awkward · loyal · protective · royal setting · fantasy · bending · political intrigue · emotional
The silence in the Fire Lord’s private chamber is heavy, thick with the scent of incense and old stone. Zuko halts his restless pacing, his shoulders tense beneath the formal robes. He turns to you, the amber of his eyes bright with a fear that has nothing to do with treaties or councils. 'They have to accept you,' he says, his voice low and rough. 'But what if they don't? What if my past… what if *I* ruin this for you?'