The Banished Commander (ATLA fanfiction)

Prologue

Zara's P.O.V.

"Zuko, don't you dare," I warn my boyfriend, holding my arms in front of myself

"You know I have to." He says with a smirk

I look at him then quickly run into my backyard, trying to get away from his latest plan. I jump behind a tree, peeking every now and then. I go around the tree, only to be met with arms around my waist, holding me in place.

"Zuko!" I squeal

"You should know by now, I know of all your hiding places." He says

I smile and look over at him, sighing as I take his hands in mine.

"You're right. Why do I even hide?" I ask

"Ask yourself that." He says

I roll my eyes and walk over to the monument I have in the backyard.

"He died an honorable death," Zuko says

"I just wish this could've been my actual dad, not my adopted dad," I say

"Hey, don't let the ones that abandoned you get to you. You had two loving parents who found you. And they both would be so proud of you." Zuko says, making me face him

"You're right." I start, setting my hands on my shoulder

He smiles down at me, then places a soft kiss to my right temple.

"I still hate how we have to keep this a secret." He says

"So do I. But we both know how your father would react. As he wants you to be with someone who has royal blood." I say

"I should probably get home. I'll see you at school tomorrow." He says

"Be careful," I say, letting my hand slip out of his as he runs off

-~-

"Ahhh, Zara. It's so nice to see you again." Firelord Ozai says

"You called me?" I say with a bow

"Yes. I've heard rumors about you and my son sneaking around." He says
I bite my tongue, then look over at Azula, shaking my head.

"I must not tell a lie to the Firelord." I say "So, yeah, I'll admit to dating Zuko."

I take in a deep breath and purse my lips, looking the Firelord dead in the eye.

"But before you say anything. I just want you to know, your son is truly happy when we are around each other." I say

"I want you to make up a lie and leave." He says

"I can't lie to him!" I argue

"It's either that or something worse." He says, shrugging

I purse my lips, looking back at the door.

"Yes, sir," I say

I look at Azula one last time then walk out of the throne room.

"I hope you're happy Azula. Ruining your own brother's happiness for your entertainment." I say

You hear Azula stop dead in her tracks as I say that to her. I walk out of the palace and towards my house, hoping I can break it to Zuko without hurting him too much.

Zuko's P.O.V.

"Zara?" I ask

"Hey, Zuko." She says

"Are you okay? Azula told me that you needed to talk to me." I say

"I'm leaving Zuko." She says