The Tale of Fire and Sun | Zuko x OC

Chapter 17

Yara's POV:

"Zuko... Zuko!" I called out, jogging to match his pace. "Where have you been last night? Or should I say, the past few nights?!"

He's been leaving the ship for the past few nights and returned only by dawn. I came to know about this when I went to check on him after a rough day, only to find his chamber empty.

I confirmed my suspicions yesterday, when I myself saw him leave on a river boat to the shore!

Zuko stopped short and I looked at him. Jeez... he was a complete mess. His face looked tired and dark circles were clearly evident in his skin.

But that didn't make him any less handsome. His features were enhanced and flawless, even with the tired look. He had his usual grim look and his lips were pressed in a thin line. He was looking... nice! I then realised I've be staring at him shamelessly. Damn, Yara... focus!

"Nowhere..." He muttered, averting his gaze from mine.

Seriously?! I placed my hands on my hip and glared at him. He wasn't getting away from this!

"Fine... I was out for a walk..." He huffed but I was not convinced. "Since when did you start going out for walks?!" My glare intensified and he tried his best to avoid my gaze.

"Cut it out, Yara! It's none of your business!" He snapped and stormed into the Captain's room before I could retort.

I huffed angrily and let out a good amount of fire with my fist, from all the frustration. Hmm... that felt good!

I then plastered my signature smile and entered the room. "Good morning, Uncle!" I pat Uncle's shoulder who was playing Pai Sho with the crew.

I made my way to the table where Lieutenant Jee and Zuko were studying a map. "You're not really starting off without me, are you?" I crossed my arms against my chest, with a playful smile.

Zuko snorted at my comment and I shot him a glare. "Definitely not, my Lady!" Lieutenant Jee laughed.

"Well, shall we start then?" Zuko asked, clearly annoyed. I frowned at him but let it slide this time. I nodded at Jee to start.

"So far, we know that the Avatar is traveling to the Northern Water Tribe." Lieutenant Jee spoke, his eyes focused on the map. "We haven't been able to pick up the Avatar's trail since the storm. But, if we continue heading Northwest-"

He stopped as we saw a large ship stop beside ours. "What do they want?" Zuko scowled.

"They might be here for an announcement..." My eyes then widened as my mind came up with the most possible reason. "Or worse..."

I felt my breathing quicken. What if they were here for me? Was it my father? Did his time to get me came real soon?!

"Yara!" Zuko called out immediately. "To my chamber, now! They won't dare to check in there!"

He needn't tell me twice. I didn't dare to risk anything now. I nodded and rushed to Zuko's chamber.

"No one should even breathe about Yara's presence here. I demand your utmost discretion! Got it?! Spread the word to the entire crew before they arrive!" I heard Zuko's commanding voice as I left.

I was anxious and scared the whole time, waiting in Zuko's chamber. I didn't know why the Fire Navy's ship stopped by ours and the possible reasons made me nervous. After what felt like a lifetime, the door opened.

I immediately took my fighting stance and braced myself for the worst. "It's just me" My body visibly relaxed as I saw Zuko by the door. He walked straight to his bed and sat on it, never glancing my way. Oh Agni... Why was he looking so down?