Painted Blue (A Zutara Fanfiction)

Ch.1: Coronation

 Long ago, there was a world with four nations based on the elements. For millennia, these four nations lived together in harmony; but everything changed when the fire nation attacked. Only the Avatar, master of all four elements, could stop them. But when the world needed him most, he vanished. 100 years passed and two kids from the southern water tribe discovered the new avatar, an air-bender named Aang. After mastering all the elements, the young avatar managed to put an end to Fire-Lord Ozai's reign with the help of his friends. Our story begins after these events...

"Nephew, are you up already? We don't want to keep our guests waiting." General Iroh's voice carried through the wood as he knocked on Zuko's door. He waited a few seconds before entering the young Prince's chambers.

"Your top knot is crooked." He pointed out as he approached the anxious teen who was standing in front of an ornate mirror. Zuko glanced up from where his gaze rested and focused on his uncle's reflection behind him. Without a word he turned, allowing his uncle to reach out and aid him by adjusting the hair piece. "I can't help but notice there is something on your mind, Prince Zuko." Iroh noted once he'd finished. The young man turned back to his reflection before speaking.

"This war has been raging for over a century; started by my great- grandfather and continued by his kin and my father before me. All men revered as great masters!" he exclaimed, amber eyes distant and troubled.

"You uncle, are the ex-fire-lord's brother. A legend known as the Dragon of the west." He paused, brows furrowing, and eyes clenching shut for a second before continuing. "But me, I'm just a kid..." his voice trailed off.

"How do I know if I can do this, Uncle?" He asked finally, turning to face the man who'd raised him after his banishment. "How can I repair a hundred years of pain and sorrow when I'm nothing but a child?" he asked, the frustration apparent in his tone.

The General's gaze softened as he took in his nephew's expression; It was contorted with anxiety and self-doubt. Iroh placed his hands on Zuko's slumping shoulders, a warm smile tugging the corner of his lips.

"The only difference I see between you and those so-called masters dear nephew, is your humility." Zuko's eyes widened as he raised his head so he could look at the man he admired most.

"You're too humble Prince Zuko. Your bending abilities far surpass those of any Fire-benders I've met, and I'm not just saying that because you had a handsome teacher." He quipped, a chuckle rolling through his belly as he referred to himself. Zuko rolled his eyes, a hint of a smile could be seen tugging at his previous scowl. "Though it is true that you are young, being a master is about more than being proficient in your element. It's about wisdom, dedication and compassion; all which exist within you, Prince Zuko."

The prince swallowed thickly, fighting back the emotions burning in his chest. "Even in your youth, you are more of a man than your father or any of those old tyrants ever were. There is no one more capable or apt than you to become Fire-Lord. Now that the Avatar has fulfilled his destiny, it is time to fulfill yours. The world needs you, Zuko." The prince's eyes watered when he heard those words. After years of being rejected and reminded of his shortcomings, the young man's chest swelled with emotion. He turned away for a second and wiped his eyes with the sleeve of his ceremonial garments. "Do you really mean that Uncle?" he asked as he glanced back at his reflection one last time. "As much as I mean my love for Jasmine tea; care for a cup?"

Zuko laughed, the sound dissipating the heaviness that had clouded the room. His Uncle always knew just what to say. A knock on the door made them both turn just as Mai, Zuko's on and off girlfriend stepped into the room. "Everyone is here. The ceremony is about to start." She informed the pair. "l'll put on a pot of tea for my nerves. I leave you in much prettier hands Prince Zuko." Iroh gave his nephew's shoulder a firm, reassuring squeeze before excusing himself from the room.