Find Me | Zuko x reader | Avatar the Last Airbender | Book 1

Chapter 6: A Hunch

          Y/N couldn't help but fidget restlessly as the two firebenders stared daggers at each other. She wasn't aware of the history they had, but it was obvious why Zuko hated him. Y/N was extremely anxious about her future, yes, but part of her just wanted to see Zhao's face kicked in.

          Zuko attacked first, sending several short bursts of fire from his hands. Zhao easily sidestepped or dispersed every one, continuing his seemingly effortless defense as Zuko wailed on him, a sick smirk plastered on his face. 

          This isn't good. Y/N thought, watching as Zuko quickly tired himself out. Zhao had a strong foundation, keeping himself planted firmly on the ground even as he dodged and moved. Zuko, however, was light on his feet, recklessly using up his energy at the very start of the fight.

          The prince had to stop to catch his breath, his stance a little weak as he recovered. Zhao saw this immediately, stepping forward to take the offensive.

          "Remember your basics, Zuko!" Iroh commanded, watching as Zhao advanced, sending his own series of blasts. Zuko didn't move aside or dodge, he seemed too tired to move around too much. He instead blocked each attack, dispersing them as they came. 

          He was obviously trying to stay firm on his foundation, but with every attack he was pushed back a bit, barely able to stay upright. Zhao sent one final huge blast with both hands, and Zuko's block only shielded him from getting burned. The force of the attack sent him flying, rolling close to the railing where Y/N stood.

          "Don't get up yet." Y/N bent down and hissed at him through the railing bars. He was breathing hard, covered in dust and scratches, but he looked over at her. "Save your breath, and think for a moment. I know you can win." I hope you can win...

          Zuko didn't seem to be listening all that much, simply laying there and staring at her intensely as Zhao approached him from behind. Y/N grabbed the bar, not daring to reach out to him. 

          She couldn't say anything else, words wouldn't form in her mouth. He seemed to be studying her, gears turning. She only returned the intense stare, trying to form some sort of encouragement, but fear was rising up in her throat, threatening to come out in sobs.

          "Please." The tight, pleading word barely escaped Y/N's lips before she clamped he mouth closed, unwilling to show Zuko any more weakness in her. Please. I have to be there for my siblings, my family. They mean too much to me. Please.

          Zhao jumped the remaining distance, preparing to deal a finishing blow to the face, but Zuko rolled out form under him at the last moment, jumping up with a spin kick that sent a wave of fire right into Zhao's legs, causing him to stumble and almost hit the ground.

          Zuko didn't stop, firing blasts relentlessly with newfound vigor as the commander tried to regain his footing. A few more well-placed attacks, and Zhao lost his ground completely, falling onto his back. Zuko stood over him, and raised his fists to finish the fight.

          Y/N cringed and braced herself, expecting his screams to suddenly rip through the air with Zuko's final attack at his face, but never heard them. Zuko had shot the last blow right next to Zhao's face, leaving the commander unharmed. He stepped back, frowning down at his beaten enemy.

          "That's it?" Zhao growled, sitting up. "Your father raised a coward." Zuko ignored him, and he growled again, standing and firing a blast of fire at the prince's back. Iroh quickly stepped in, easily blocking the flames and knocking him backwards again. Zuko yelled, attempting to attack Zhao again, but Iroh held him back.