The Unpredictable Fire Adventurers [General Iroh II x Reader] [Legend of Korra]

『a tough wall to crack

The rocks' illuminations guide the two of you safely out the cave. You notice your tour group on the other end, having taken a simpler exit. Tonraq and Haku spot your presence and sigh with relief at the sight of you wellbeings. As they jog over, you begin to feel self-conscious at the feel of Iroh's hand in yours. 

You enjoy the warmth his hand provides, and it feels normal to have your hands interlinked. He's done this before throughout the journey but never with the implications they pose right now. He isn't doing this in a protective manner, but in a way that shows your newfound relationship with the boy.

"I knew [Name] would lead you guys to safety," Tonraq says once he makes it to your side. 

"You guys aren't hurt, right?" Haku asks as he inspects you two from a distance. When his eyes land on your entwined hands, he points at them with an oblivious reaction. "You're out of the cave. There isn't any need to continue holding hands."

His comment brings Tonraq's attention to your hands, and your cheeks fire up in embarrassment. "Are... you sure you're okay? You seem a bit red, [Name]." Usually, Tonraq caught on much quicker when it came to social situations, but this time he's just as oblivious as Haku.

You glance up at Iroh for help, and he wears the same abashed expression. Once he realizes your silent plea, he jumps in with little regard to his embarrassment.  "That's... That's what you do when you're dating."

"What?" the both begin to gawk.

"I--uh-- I made things right with her," Iroh continues, "and we agreed to start dating."

It takes a moment for the good news to register, and when it does, Tonraq is the first to congratulate you two. "You finally did it, that's great." He gives Iroh a few hard pats on the back, causing the boy to cough in pain.

"Oh... It's finally happening," Haku tears up. "My ship is sailing."

"What about a ship?" The skin between your eyebrows creases in confusion.

"Don't mind him," Iroh grins as he relishes in the happiness. His hold on your hand tightens, forcing you to glance up at him once more. As always, his smile is just too contagious that you can't help but mirror it.

"Okay!" you chirp.

"So cute... They're so cute," Haku whimpers.

[___]

Omashu stands behind a curved wall that encases the city. Two guards are stationed at the entrance, but they're purely cosmetic and only there to halt any brawls that might transpire. Luckily, your tour group derived from Omashu and you follow them into the city. There aren't any suspicious glances and you safely arrive at the city.

"Thanks for using Omashu Tours! Please come again!" the tour guide waves goodbye as the group disperses.

"So what now?" you ask as you turn to face your group.

"It's going to get dark soon, and there's not much to do here at night," Haku explains, having known the entirety of the Earth Kingdom. "They do have a small library with books found from the forbidden library."

Your eyes widen and sparkle.

"Which I'm sure you'll like to see," Haku finishes with a small laugh.

"I was thinking of going on a date--" Iroh can't finish his sentence as you quickly cut him off with your enthusiasm.

"Can I go see the library?!" Tornaq and Haku awkwardly eye Iroh, who already looks dejected. You, on the other hand, cannot contain your excitement on the matter. "Please tell me they're still open!"

"They close pretty late since a lot of scholars roam the library," Haku tentatively responds.

"Where to Haku?!" 

Haku gives Iroh one last look before helping you out. "Follow me." 

As you two depart, Tonraq gives Iroh a nudge. "I thought you were finally done keeping quiet when it came to her."

Iroh idly glances at Tonraq before returning his gaze to your retreating back. The man makes a point there. He did decide he was through keeping things from you. If this relationship is to work, he had to stop allowing people to walk over him.

With a quick intake of oxygen, Iroh marches over to your receding figure and grabs hold of your elbow. You turn around to give him a bewildered look, and Iroh makes sure not hold back any emotions. "[Name], I want to go on a date with you tomorrow night!"

Your eyes widen significantly as a blush settles on your cheeks. "Tomorrow?"

"Yeah, you have fun at the library today. I know that's what you're passionate about," Iroh states with a loving smile. "And then I'll have you to myself tomorrow for our date."

This new unapologetic Iroh messes with your mind, and once again, all you can do is provide a stupid nod. "G-Gotcha." 

"And while at the library, don't come back with another Li," Iroh smirks.

"Ugh! Iroh!" you slap his shoulder as he chuckles heartily.