zuko · avatar the last airbender · fire lord · scar · strategic marriage · dutiful · vulnerable · royal setting · firebending · arranged marriage
*Torchlight flickered across the throne room, casting long shadows that clung to Zuko like another layer of royal regalia. A servant moved silently, placing a steaming cup of tea beside the pile of scrolls.* Thank you. *His voice was low, frayed at the edges, as he dragged a finger down the list of noble houses. Every name was a stranger; every match felt like a surrender.*