I'm curious: is Akane lesbian, or is she perhaps bisexual? Assuming she is a lesbian, how in future could this be handled? Would the Fire Nation accept a 'Virgin Queen', perhaps in the vein of Elizabeth I, or would Akane be forced to accept an unhappy marriage in order to placate her subjects? Going further, in the event that Akane never produces an heir, how does the Fire Nation regard adoption? Is the notion of kingship or royalty linked to a kind of 'divine bloodline', or is it instead tied to the office?
Well, it's a Supreme Leader type nation for all intents and purposes regarding the laws a such. Homosexually is in fact currently illegal though since Sozin issued it as such. Royalty is based on bloodline, but they can also duel each other to take the position if they win. I'm not aware of any marriage requirements at all, I don't believe canon makes mention of any, so I figure that's in Kosm's ballpark.
I'm curious: is Akane lesbian, or is she perhaps bisexual? Assuming she is a lesbian, how in future could this be handled? Would the Fire Nation accept a 'Virgin Queen', perhaps in the vein of Elizabeth I, or would Akane be forced to accept an unhappy marriage in order to placate her subjects? Going further, in the event that Akane never produces an heir, how does the Fire Nation regard adoption? Is the notion of kingship or royalty linked to a kind of 'divine bloodline', or is it instead tied to the office?
If I recall right the general plan the chat came up with at the start was for Akane to develop a Ki technique along the same lines as Muten Roshi's or Happosai's that would allow her to fight off aging perhaps indefinably.
As far as I can tell, having read a bunch of the live comment backlog, Akane is lesbian.
And as has been brought up many times, I don't think it matters much if we don't directly produce an heir - either because of the memetic "don't need an heir if you never die " approach, or just because Zuko managed to perpetuate the royal line just fine in canon.
No, I think it was an off-handed comment/suggestion from Azula that she didn't think Akane would take seriously nor consider. And some reader here developed that idea. Not sure about that.
"One more question," Azula says quietly. "Do you think you'll marry a man and keep a woman as a mistress, or marry a woman and just use a man to produce heirs?" is probably the line you were thinking of.
"One more question," Azula says quietly. "Do you think you'll marry a man and keep a woman as a mistress, or marry a woman and just use a man to produce heirs?" is probably the line you were thinking of.
Wait, uh, Azula being gay? Seriously? Wasn't she too warrior-like to think about any of that? I would classify her more on the 'I don't care' category more than anything. That's the vibe I got from her at least when watching the show.
Warrior like people still like to get laid. Azula specifically wants a romantic partner in The Beach episode. (which also suggests that she is straight, but there are ways to ignore that)
I didn't say otherwise. I was more saying that Azula took it to the extreme and so she would hardly care. Although, the last few episodes might have tainted my image of her. Its been a while since I watched the show, to be honest.
This Omake is the product of several hours of writing in a caffeine-induced haze (it's also totally unbeta'd, so watch out) after reading Kosm's comments about Akane in ATLA canon (see page 3504 onwards on Anonkun). Inspired by this, I decided that I wanted to try my hand at showing one possible course of events the quest could take. Here, canon goes mostly according to the show, though with several changes to account for our collective meddling:
1) It's Akane who burns Zuko in an Agni Kai on Ozai's orders as a means of forcing her to demonstrate resolve and loyalty.
2) Akane and Azula spearhead the creation of a new and refined royal guard force
3) Akane and Mitsuko are in a secret (and totally gay) relationship, because anything less is heresy
4) Akane does has several encounters with the GAANG throughout the story, though it is doubtful if they ever actually know its her
5) The rest of canon goes relatively according to plan, though IDK I just want to get this posted.
If it lands well (and if I can muster the motivation to write more), maybe I'll add some more parts. Until then, enjoy. This particular part of the story takes place after the events of the Day of the Black Sun, and is from Akane's pov. Btw thanks @kosm for creating such an amazing character and story! Can't wait to see where we go next!
Summer, 100 AG - Post Day of the Black Sun
You never expected Zuko to leave; Despite all of his not-so-secret doubts, the whispered meetings with your similarly absent uncle, and his overall gloominess, you knew with all your being that he was no traitor. Even in exile, the Zuko you knew, the broken, scarred prince who wanted nothing more than his father's acceptance and the honor that he'd lost; the one who would sacrifice anything and everything in pursuit of those goals, would never betray the Fire Nation in his pursuit of the Avatar.
(Betray everything your people had worked for, fought for, died for.)
Zuko had achieved everything that he had desired: father's respect, the adoration of the populace, and most importantly of all, a place in the family. Those few months, despite having been consumed by planning for the Black Sun, overseeing expansion of your guard, and your (not) relationship with Mitsuko, were special to you. For the first time in your memories, you were part of a family again - You, Azula, Zuko, even Father. For a brief moment, you allowed yourself the luxury of imagining a world set free, of a world where you and your siblings could be whole again without the weight of a hundred years of warfare bearing down on you (without the weight of the fire, pale yellow in your hand, pressed down unto a screaming, tear-stained face. Without the weight of the confusion, fear, pain, and finally loathing that colored those golden eyes even as the flesh steamed and your lips traced silent apologies).
The Avatar, dead by Zuko's (Azula's) hands; Ba Sing Se liberated ("For Lu Ten," you whispered as you lit the incense candles and watched the sunset from a rocky knoll, buried in Mitsuko's arms. You both knelt on the soft green grass that marked his final resting place, and she pretended that the droplets that stained your royal robes were only a product of the scattered clouds above.) and its tyrannical rulers thrown to the masses; the myriad nations of the Earth Kingdom swept up in maelstrom of infighting and squabbling for leadership as your armies circled like vulture-wasps. Even the Northern Water Tribe would soon fall, the last bastion of resistance to your rightful cause obliterated and the world unified at last under the glorious banner of the Fire Nation. Then, you would rebuild the world and make things right, using the peace to bring civilization and prosperity to all of your subjects.
And then Zuko betrayed the Fire Nation.
(Betrayed YOU threw aside EVERYTHING YOU AND AZULA WORKED FOR WHILE HE SQUANDERED LIFE IN EXILE.)
You should have seen it coming.
The amount of times you had spoken to the triumphant prince (to your own brother) after his return could be counted on two hands; in between he and Mai's constant hook-ups, the pressures of the return to royal life, and his incessant training, there was little time to talk. You suspected that even if you'd had such time, any discussions would be overshadowed by the scar that adorned his face, and you were certain that neither of you were willing to talk about that (about the stench of cooked human meat that stained the air, about those apologies left forever unsaid, about father's approving gaze and the slight twitch on his left cheek that was the telltale sign of a suppressed smile). While still familiar, exile and the hunt for the Avatar had changed your brother as much as your own journeys had altered your perspective, and between him, Azula, father's growing demands, and your own needs, you had thought that merely acknowledging that fact had been enough; that his honor, that his place in the family was enough for the time being and that reconciliation could wait until after everything was complete.
That was a mistake.
If what your sister said about her impromptu family reunion that culminated in the "death" of the Avatar and the fall of Ba Sing Se is true, (Azula and Mitsuko have never lied to you, unlike certain other individuals) he really had gone rogue, hiding out in the Earth Kingdom and then Ba Sing Se with uncle; shirking his duties as a Prince of the Fire Nation in order to serve tea… Tea! And yet, despite his failings, Azula had extended to him the opportunity to not only redeem his honor, but gain personal glory and return home as a hero! And when he had returned home, you had welcomed him with open arms! You had both worked to make him part of the family again, despite everything that had happened (everything that you had let happen).
(Everything you did to make him strong, to teach him, every lesson he ignored and failed sacrifice sacrifice SACRIFICE without which there can be no strength!)
And in exchange for your kindness, for your second chances, he had thrown you and Azula to the wolves, turning father's ire against those he had left behind to cover for his own failings. His own weaknesses.
(Just like her taking kindness and twisting it into a blade against You against Azula.)
Zuko had learned well.
(treasonous filth, polluting my palace, coveting my throne)
He had written a letter to Mai (not to you or Azula, but Mai) explaining and apologizing for his sudden absence, as if such a thing could wash away the stain of his treason or the Fire Lord's rage. Your guards had it delivered to your quarters, and you seared its contents into your brain (like the mark that adorns his face). Later, when only ashes remain to be swept away by some passing servant, you sit in the garden to watch as your sister, the Dai Li, and Mistuko train the royal guards in counter-bending tactics.
Across the courtyard and through the gaps in the ranks of soldiers, you catch a faint flash of blue fire as it arcs with illusionary tranquility before slamming down out of view with a faint rumble. Azula dances amongst her firebending guard, sending men and women tumbling as they desperately avoid her perfectly accurate bursts of flame. Alone, surrounded by the toppled and grumbling forms of her guard unit, she seems unstoppable. With a brief and polite bow towards your perch overlooking the courtyard, she continues her simulated attack, much to the dismay of her forces. You nod approvingly.
(You have Azula.)
Mitsuko flips through the air to dodge a blast of fire, a block of earth propelling her leap, twirling, twisting, flipping, to land in a three-pointed stance, her sheathed blade lightly tapping the throat of the attacking guard. Behind her, the remaining two guards collapse with grunts, their feet encased in the stone of the courtyard by the Dai Li. A shrill whistle followed by the angry snarling of an observing drill sergeant signals the end of the match, and Mitsuko stands, sleek muscles shimmering in the afternoon light as she languidly relaxes her sword. Your eyes dance over her form, watching the sunlight dapple across her hair and face, the faint wind ruffling her light-weight training outfit. As if sensing your gaze, she turns her head to face you, lips curling into a shy smile. A faint, wan echo of her expression dances across your face as well, gone as quickly as it appears, but the sudden shine in Mitsuko's eyes is an unmistakable acknowledgment of your action.
(You have Mitsuko.)
Your will is your sun, which rises and sets like clockwork regardless of the failings of the world - the failings of others. This setback, this betrayal, like the eclipse, is both temporary and survivable. If your brother wants to pursue the nation's downfall at the hands of the Avatar; bring about peace or some misbegotten ideal of maintaining "balance" between the four nations with uncle, he can certainly try. You might even leave him alive when all is said and done just to show him how wrong he was. But there will be no third chances. Zuko doesn't want a family. Fine. He doesn't need you or Azula. Fine.
(You don't need this.)
You don't need Zuko either.
(You don't need her.)
Your hand curls into a fist, crimson sparks flaring through the gaps in your grip. The world will change, and you, Crown Princess Akane, will be the herald of that new age. And no one, not Zuko, not Uncle, (not Father, not her) not even the Avatar will stand in your way.
That's some Alia Atreides sized issues going on there. I can easily imagine everything in the parenthesis being whispered into her ears by a shadowy spirit of Azulon.
That's some Alia Atreides sized issues going on there. I can easily imagine everything in the parenthesis being whispered into her ears by a shadowy spirit of Azulon.
Yeah, this is definitely an Akane who has dumped quite a few points into the Supremacy: Fire Nation and Emotional Detachment Skill trees, for better or worse (probably worse in this case.) Emotional Detatchment might be a handy skill, but when pursued to its logical extreme it results in Akane's stress causing her to develop Azula-styled mental issues (talking to herself, voices in your head, rogue thoughts, etc...).
Unlike Azula, Akane still has a support network and people she loves and trusts, but while that may be enough to keep her from outwardly expressing her inner turmoil, it simply can't last. I also enjoyed showing the fact that Akane here still loves others (see her attachment to Mitsuko & Azula, mourning Lu Ten, etc...), but her thoughts are constantly tainted by her inner turmoil leakage. Either way, I'm glad you seemed to enjoy it, and I'll see about writing some more if I have the time (gotta hammer out some essays...).
Edit: Also I totally didn't realize the Azulon parallels into you pointed them out so thank you for that @Shadow Archon(I'll just pretend that was my goal all along!)
"One more question," Azula says quietly. "Do you think you'll marry a man and keep a woman as a mistress, or marry a woman and just use a man to produce heirs?" is probably the line you were thinking of.
Honestly, if it comes to that, it's entirely likely that Akane takes the second option. She has shown herself willing to sacrifice quite a lot for her goals and for the Fire Nation that I expect, if she ends being the one needing to produce an heir, I expect her to do what must be done, even as she's married to Mitsuko.
And on the marriage to Mitsuko, the question is only how she'll justify it being legal, from "I'm the firelord now, what I say goes", passing through "Open secret, everyone knows it, but no one knows officially", to the "Legally male now due to crown requirements" if you want one that do have some historical precedence.
That's a little parallel that I might have to use somehow in case Zuko does end up betraying Akane at some point, it's delicious. Thank you so much for writing this!!
I had a prof once who talked a bit about how gender was more fluid and tied to profession in ancient Egypt than it is in a lot of present-day European societies, so any ruler was automatically considered sort of male simply because of their position. I'm just going off a vague memory though, I don't have a citation for that.
The daughters of Louis the Great, Jadwiga and Mary, were crowned "Kings" of Poland and Hungary respectively. Mary wasn't king for long, but Jadwiga's rule was prosperous and her marriage promoted christianization in eastern europe and laid the foundation for the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
The daughters of Louis the Great, Jadwiga and Mary, were crowned "Kings" of Poland and Hungary respectively. Mary wasn't king for long, but Jadwiga's rule was prosperous and her marriage promoted christianization in eastern europe and laid the foundation for the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
Hey all! Here's what happened in last night's live session. Thank you all for reading! I hope it's okay!
-----
97 AC (15 years old)
At Sea
Uncle has a legitimate claim on the throne. A strong one. Father's letter said nothing about Uncle moving against him, yet, but that tells you nothing. Where was Uncle for two years? Why let the world assume he had died? Was he in hiding? Gathering power? Plotting? You know Father tried to purge the court of Uncle's staunchest supporters after taking the throne, but how successful was he, really? Even if Father succeeded at the time, how many people in the court are going see an opportunity now? How many people think that Fire Lord Ozai's policies are destructive and the Dragon of the West might do better? How many people think Uncle has lost his flame and might make a useful puppet? Does Uncle even want the throne? It seems like the obvious assumption, but who knows with him? Are you coming back to a court on the verge of civil war or not?
You doubt you're coming back to a stable one. Even if Uncle doesn't plan to move against his brother, you're certain Father will. And he's not one for moderation in crushing threats.
It would have been nice if he had bothered to include any information in his summons. What are you supposed to do on the way back? Does he want you preparing for court politics or an Agni Kai or a family dinner? You have no idea, so you spend your time at sea trying to prepare for all three. Between your seasickness and unanswered questions, you don't think you're doing a very effective job of it. You can't even spar with Azula much; you are not letting her finally beat you because of something as absurd as seasickness. She's getting moody with nothing to do, but you have larger concerns. You almost wish you had brought Kori along to entertain her - you had been entertaining the idea of inviting her to the capital. Considering the circumstances of your return, though, you have no idea how Father would react if you showed up with her in tow. For all you know, the political situation is so delicate that he'd be furious you gave the Morishitas the honor of having their daughter added to your retinue without consulting with him first.
It seems like the only useful thing you can do on this ship is meditate, but even that is difficult. Mitsuko's presence as your guard is... distracting.
Maybe you should talk to her. Or Azula. Or both of them. About what happened with Azulon, or... anything else. You told Mitsuko you would, but that was before you knew Uncle was back. Now, your knowledge of what happened has a much more real chance of causing a civil war.
What should you tell them?
Tell them both everything about what happened to Azulon, and about everything that happened between you and Mother. (40)
+But for Agni's sake, if your going to do this, use written messages only, and make sure to burn the messages once your done. No verbal communication at all. (37)
Tell them nothing. Azula already suspects you killed Azulon, and Mitsuko doesn't need to know. (32)
Tell them both everything about what happened to Azulon. Nothing else is relevant. (3)
Tell them about what happened with Mother, but not Azulon. (2)
The people who are most important to you need to know what the situation is so they can respond to it effectively. Especially if you're relying on them to tell you if your judgment becomes questionable. You have no idea what situation you're returning to in the capital, and you need Azula and Mitsuko informed and firmly on your side.
And you can't keep dragging them both along in the dark, acting like you're doing nothing that could endanger them. You aren't your mother.
You invite them to join you in your room one night as you near the capital. Together.
"Why is she here?" Azula complains.
"Because I need to talk to both of you, Azula," you say. What are you supposed to do, invite Mitsuko to your room alone? "We need to discuss the situation in the capital."
"With your Uncle returning?" Mitsuko asks quietly. You nod.
"What is there to discuss?" Azula asks. "You don't seriously think Uncle Fuddy-Duddy is an actual threat to Father?"
"I think that Father will treat him as a credible threat until he has reason to do otherwise," you answer. "Uncle was not here when Fire Lord Azulon declared Father his successor, and we don't yet know whether Uncle has accepted it. I think that we should prepare ourselves for any eventuality."
Azula shrugs and sits on your bed. "Fine. Prepare how?"
"I just think we should discuss a few things," you murmur, turning to your desk. You gather some paper and writing supplies; Azula's eyes widen in recognition as you turn back to face her. "Could you make room on the bed, please?"
After a minute to get situated, you're huddled under a blanket with Azula and Mitsuko, ready to begin writing. You feel rather more self-conscious about being huddled under a blanket than you remember feeling last time - it's a little childish, isn't it? - but it's too late to back out of it now without being moreawkward. But there is very little room. Mitsuko is very close.
You're not going to think about that right now. You have things to do.
You take several moments to think before writing. Your goal isn't simply to relate some sob story for the sake of sharing; you need to emphasize what's relevant for them. You don't want to make the situation sound worse than it is, but if you don't spell out the worst possibilities they might not think of them on their own - Mitsuko especially might be too busy worrying about your feelings to think through the long-term dangers you'll all be facing. She's that kind of person.
You just have to keep it simple. You'll start with getting Mitsuko up to speed.
After Lu Ten died, Father approached Fire Lord Azulon asking to be made heir.
She already knows this. Everyone 'knows' Fire Lord Azulon made Father heir in response to Lu Ten's death and the end of Iroh's line.
Mitsuko frowns in confusion as you write the next line.
Fire Lord Azulon refused.
You describe the sequence of events briefly. Azulon's punishment for Father, Azula's warning. The state the Fire Lord was in when you confronted him. You're sparse on details about the fight, and you can tell it disappoints Azula. Mitsuko seems horrified, and at one point even grabs your free hand. It's kind but unnecessary. You continue writing, not letting yourself get distracted.
If Uncle wanted the throne, my testimony could allow him to gather enough support to start a legitimate civil war.
Azula scowls and writes something down quickly -
But you wouldn't betray Father.
You gently take the brush back.
Father does not gamble on whether someone would betray him. Even family.
He certainly scolded you enough for gambling on whether Mother would betray you.
His concern now will be whether I can betray him to Uncle, and how he can minimize that threat.
You still remember what he looked like, standing over you that night. You know he was weighing his options. You're certain of it.
You've been spending a great deal of time thinking about the threat Uncle could pose, but that doesn't mean it's never crossed your mind what Father might do to secure his position if he felt threatened. He couldn't just kill you, he wouldn't, but...
When we were children, his animosity with Mother came to a head, you write. And Mother decided to taunt him by sending a letter to a former lover. In the letter, she falsely claimed that I was this peasant's daughter.
Azula goes still as a statue. Mitsuko stares at you. You continue writing as quickly as possible.
The Fire Sages examined her when she married Father, and verified she was a virgin. And based on the timing of my birth, she conceived me several months after their wedding. It's vanishingly unlikely that she could have had a tryst with her former lover. Father told me that he was certain it was an untrue claim, and Mother admitted to me that it had been a lie meant to hurt Father.
This is what we argued about, the night of the attempt on Father's life.
You write a brief explanation of what Father had done to that servant girl, Chae, how you found out, and how it intersected with the confrontation with Mother. You don't think Azula particularly cares about those details, but Mitsuko seems horrified at the story.
If Father kept the letter Mother wrote to smear me, he has leverage to use against me if he becomes convinced it's necessary. Or, if Uncle manages to turn enough members of the palace staff to his side, the letter may fall into his hands for his use.
Either way, my testimony about the death of Azulon will be key to both of their positions. There is considerable leverage they might use against me. The safety of the two of you is another thing someone may attempt to threaten to get to me. I want you both to be informed and prepared so we can act effectively together.
Azula meets your eyes, her gaze searching. You think you see doubt in her expression, or fear, but you're not sure of what. Your expression stays neutral. You made your peace with telling this secret before you asked her here. You're certain you're Father's daughter, but you can't prove it any more than you have.
You hope you've only taken a mother from her, and not a sister too.
She looks away and picks up a brush.
So what is our plan?
You meet her eyes again, and this time you see more determination than doubt.
Thank you, little sister.
Tell them that you need to wait and see what the situation is before deciding. Whatever happens, they should just follow your lead. (33)
+When we get to the capital I must decipher Iroh's wishes. Is he back to claim the throne or is he here to see his estranged family after his extended grieving period. But no matter what happens we cannot let the Fire Nation fall to civil war, especially so close to total victory. (23)
Tell them we need to start building up a powerbase of our own, so we won't remain pawns in the game of those more powerful than us. That means training our own guards, making political connections and forays into business. If us and Azula concentrate on seperate things, it won't be particularly suspicious. (12)
Tell them that they should consider distancing themselves from you, for their own safety. (7)
Tell them that you all need to follow Father's wishes exactly and give him no reason to doubt your loyalty. (4)
You take a moment to consider before writing.
A detailed plan is difficult to make right now. For now, our plan is simply to assess the situation. We must find out what Uncle wants and whose support he can draw on, and must do so as quickly as possible. We cannot do more than that yet. Careless action may provoke retaliation before we are ready to weather it. Once we know more, we can begin working to secure our position.
Our chances to speak freely will be limited once we're back at the capital. There will be times we are forced to improvise, and we can't afford to be uncoordinated. Whatever happens, follow my lead.
Mitsuko nods quietly. Azula picks up the brush and writes a quick line.
If that letter about you still exists, we need to destroy it.
If the letter exists and was destroyed, Father would know immediately that you were behind it. Anyone else who found it would use it for all it was worth.
Tell Azula that trying to destroy the letter - if it still exists - should certainly be one of your main goals. Without it, Father won't be able to act against you for fear of driving you to Iroh's side. (25)
Tell Azula that trying to destroy the letter - if it still exists - would be too dangerous and too obvious. You don't see any way to destroy it without provoking retaliation. (12)
Tell Azula that trying to destroy the letter - if it still exists - would be extremely dangerous. You would have to plan very, very carefully to make sure you could get away with it. It has to be a much longer-term goal. (8)
Finding out if the letter still exists and destroying it if it does will certainly be a priority, you write. I will be much safer with it gone, from all sides. But follow my lead. We cannot act carelessly or hastily.
She nods, her expression already calculating.
Mitsuko finally picks up the brush and writes something. It's just one short line.
Whatever happens, I'm with you.
There's an odd feeling in your chest when you meet her eyes. You quickly nod and look away.
"I think that's everything," you whisper. "Unless you had questions."
Azula seems satisfied - or, at least, she seems to have enough to think about for now. After you burn the sheets of paper you used and clean up your writing supplies, you see Azula out.
Mitsuko lingers.
"Did you have any questions, Mitsuko?" you ask quietly, straightening your desk.
"I, um..."
She pulls your door shut again. You glance back over your shoulder at her. She takes a step closer to you.
"Akane..."
"Yes?"
She's right behind you. Why is she standing so close?
"In Yu Dao, when we..."
"When we what?"
You pull your robe tighter. Mitsuko hesitates.
Nothing happened in Yu Dao. You made a stupid mistake in the spur of the moment without thinking. Why couldn't she just drop it?
"Are we...?" she asks.
"Are we what, Mitsuko?"
Your heart is pounding.
"Together?" she whispers.
Two women can't be together. It's perverted and immature and treasonous and disgusting. A woman's partner is supposed to be a man. If two women tried to be together they would always feel incomplete. You - maybe you could be together as a phase, but that's all it would ever be. You'll marry a man someday. The entire idea of being with a woman - it's immature, and beneath you, and illegal besides. She could be in danger for it.
Quickly scribble down 'yes' (36)
+Explain the legalities regardless. (39)
Tell her that maybe you could be "together", but it could only last until you marry a man anyways. (16)
Tell her that you think you have feelings for her that go beyond friendship, but you need to explain the legalities. (13)
Tell her that you won't needlessly endanger her for the sake of a childish phase. (12)
Tell her there is too much going on and too much at stake and you can't afford this distraction. (6)
You step away, closer to the desk.
"Are you familiar with the law, Mitsuko?" you whisper.
Her arms slip around your waist. She's hugged you from behind a million times before, there's no reason why it should feel any different now. You reach out and adjust the brushes and ink, pretending she's not there.
"Yes," she whispers back.
Her breath tickles your ear.
"It's illegal."
You can barely even hear yourself.
"I know," she whispers.
This is stupid and wrong and immature and disgusting and foolish and treasonous. Anyone could be listening. Anyone could find out.
You picked up a brush and you don't know why, obviously there's nothing to say except 'no'. What are you thinking?
Mitsuko rests her chin on your shoulder, and you lean back against her. And it feels like you fit together. You don't. You know you don't. You can't.
You feel like you do.
"I don't know what would happen if we..."
"That's okay," Mitsuko whispers. "Neither do I."
She raises a hand to your cheek. You don't resist as she turns your head to face her.
Mitsuko has beautiful eyes.
"I just need to know," she whispers. "Do you want to?"
You can't seem to manage to say no when she's looking at you like this. Your mouth opens and nothing comes out. You just barely manage to tear your gaze away long enough to glance down at the desk, and the brush in your hand. There's a piece of paper there.
Your hand scribbles out the word yes before your mind can catch up with it. You've barely finished before Mitsuko's hand is on your cheek again, guiding you to turn to face her -
She kisses you, and you - stupid, stupid girl that you are - kiss her back.
It takes several minutes before you finally regain the presence of mind to kick her out of your room before you do something even more foolish. No matter how many times you try, though, you can't seem to get her to wipe that silly grin off her face.
* * * * *
97 AC (15 years old)
Caldera City
Uncle is in the party that greets you as you disembark. You almost don't recognize him. He greets you after Father and Zuko do, and is far more cheerful than either of them were.
He's gotten fat.
"Akane!" Uncle says jovially. "Look at how you've grown! As tall as I am, now!"
He hugs you tightly. You give him a polite hug in return, conscious of Father's seething gaze on the two of you. Zuko is practically glaring at you too, and has been since you hugged him; you're not sure why that is, but it's a problem for later.
"It is good to see you again, Uncle," you say politely.
"It has been far too long," Uncle tells you, voice low. "I have missed you more than I can say."
Perhaps he should have considered returning sooner, in that case.
"I've missed you as well."
He beams at you as he steps away, then turns to Azula.
"And Azula!" he says. "The last time I saw you, you were only - what, six years old?"
She looks completely unamused as he hugs her. "Yes, Uncle."
"It's wonderful to see you," he tells her. She smiles thinly.
It's quiet as Uncle steps away again. Uncomfortably so. He beams at you and Azula, but doesn't seem to know what to say next.
This is the part where Lu Ten would speak.
It's silent.
Turn to Father and ask if all has gone well while you've been overseas. (27)
+Give Zuko and Father any gifts you gathered for them, pointedly telling Iroh that there were no gifts for him since you had no idea he would be here (16)
Tell Uncle that you can't wait to hear the stories of what he did during his absence. (14)
Just say "Shall we return to the palace?" (3)
You turn to Father. "Has all gone well here while I was overseas?"
He grunts. "We will speak in the Palace."
"Of course, Father. Ah, before we return..." You smile politely. "I brought gifts for you."
You gesture the servants forward. The first bows deeply to Father, holding out a heavy tome.
"The scholars of Yu Dao send their regards," you say. "And this treatise. The Complete Economic History of Yu Dao: A Case Study of the Benefits of Colonization. First edition."
Father 'hm's and waves to one of his servants to take the gift. Not much of a reaction, but you suppose that's the best you can expect with such a last-minute gift.
"And for Zuko..."
Your brother scowls skeptically as you wave forward the next servant. You're satisfied to note that the skepticism fades as he sees what she's carrying.
"A pair of twin swords, forged of the finest steel in the world," you say.
He doesn't quite manage to hide the wonder in his eyes as he draws them. You smile at the sight.
You're almost tempted to say 'note the inscription and the superior craftsmanship', but saying something so blunt would be rather graceless.
Zuko gives you a stiff bow after sheathing his new swords. "Thank you."
"Of course, little brother," you answer, bowing.
You give Uncle a small bow and a polite smile as well.
"Forgive me, Uncle," you say. "I would have brought a gift for you as well, but your arrival came as such a surprise that there was no time to prepare one."
His smile dims slightly, but he returns your bow.
"There is no need to apologize, Akane," he says. "The fault is mine for returning so suddenly after being so long away."
Is that all he has to say for himself?
"The princesses have had a long journey," Father says. "They would prefer to be home in the palace, I'm sure. Akane, we will speak in my study when we return."
"As you wish, Father."
You brush past Uncle on the way to your palanquin. His smile stays persistent, and you can't for the life of you imagine why.
* * * * *
97 AC (15 years old)
Fire Lord's Study
"I take it you're intelligent enough to understand the situation?" Father says. You nod.
"Has he made any move yet?" you ask quietly.
Father snorts. "He's done nothing but drink tea and attempt to waste Prince Zuko's time. In his letter announcing his return, he acknowledged me as the rightful Fire Lord. Whatever little drive for power he once had seems long dead now."
And Father didn't think to mention that in his letter to you?
"That is a relief to hear," you say politely.
Father grunts. "Iroh himself was never the threat."
He folds his hands thoughtfully, looking at you. "Who in the court would you say is the largest threat to my rule, Akane?"
Ah. It's difficult to say. Most people act like sycophants towards Father. War Minister Qin has seemed to harbor doubts about Father's labor policies before, but he certainly appreciates Father's support for industry and research. The Tanaka merchant family is becoming richer than you're entirely comfortable with. Almost all of the generals and admirals who've served more than a few years were colleagues of Uncle Iroh, but Father has already removed the ones who genuinely seemed to have conflicted loyalties.
The Tanaka family, and the other merchant lords if left unchecked. (29)
Me. (18)
"It changes day to day. Master Qin seems to doubt the labor policies you've implemented, but he also appreciates the support for the industry and research. The Tanaka family is richer than I'm comfortable with, but would they really rock the boat with so much money on the line? Then there's all of the generals and admirals who were colleagues of uncle, but I'm assuming you've removed the ones who would've had conflicted loyalties. If I'm being truthful though, father, the greatest threat right now is doubt. What was it that made grandfather Azulon so mad and crazy? It was doubt. I trust your decisions because YOU are sure of them, leaving any doubt out of the way." (18)
Ozai (11)
Ursa (6)
The merchant lords using Uncle or me (5)
"The Tanaka family -" you begin -
Father snorts. You pause, but he waves his hand.
"No, go on," Father says.
You're not sure what this means. He doesn't normally allow you to continue speaking if you're wrong.
"The Tanaka family is becoming very wealthy," you say slowly. "Much wealthier than they should. They and the other merchant lords will only continue to centralize power if left to their own devices, and could become a credible threat. Their loyalty to the Fire Nation is not always as strong as their loyalty to their profits."
"Really?" Father drawls. "And how would you handle that threat?"
This is some sort of trick question.
Encourage competition, strengthening weaker families and playing the families against each other. (26)
You would weaken the monopolies of merchant lords who became too rich, like the Tanaka. (18)
You would arrange a marriage between Zuko and one of the daughters of the clan heads. Their gains would become our gains. (7)
You would abolish the council of merchant lords and remove their special privileges. Force them to compete as normal businessmen.(6)
Take their children, under the guise of them learning under the righteous Fire Lord and his inner court, to keep them in line. If they still continue to act a threat then kill them and have their children take their place, as puppets for you to more easily control. (4)
You would seize their assets entirely. The economy should be directly under the control of the Fire Lord. (2)
This is some sort of trap and he's going to insult you. You aren't sure what option you have other than to spring the trap, though.
"I would try to encourage competition," you say. "I would strengthen the weaker families and try to play them all against each other, to prevent any one family from centralizing too much economic power."
"Yes, that was my father's approach as well," Father tells you. He sneers. "He spent nearly a century in a constant tug-of-war with the merchant lords, and achieved nothing. He lacked vision. It is a flaw I will not allow my heir to inherit."
That was mild as his insults go. You bow your head. "Yes, Father."
"Every conflict presents an opportunity, for those strong enough to take advantage of it," Father tells you, folding his hands on his desk. "And while I have confidence in my own strength, yours remains to be proven. So I have two tests for you in the coming months, Akane."
"Tests, Father?"
"If one could call them that. They hardly deserve the name." He gives you an unimpressed look. It's been a while since you've received one from him; you'd almost forgotten what it felt like. "The first is to keep your distance from that fool Iroh. He'll undoubtedly wish to waste your time as he tries to waste Zuko's. I would think it obvious that you should avoid him and decline to trust him, but you and I both know that you have shown dangerous naivety in such matters in the past," he says, tone biting. "Do you think you can manage to show better judgment, this time?"
You nod, keeping your expression neutral. And unclench your jaw. "Yes, Father."
He snorts. "We'll see." He leans back. "Your second test may be easier, even for you. The Tanaka family heir is your age. Osamu, his name is. Get to know him, and find out what the Tanaka family is planning."
"What do you suspect, Father?"
He gives you a flat look. "I suspect nothing. I know exactly what they're planning. What I do not know is whether you are capable of discovering it for yourself. Get to know the Tanaka boy and prove you can control him. You'll be betrothed to him before long."
-----
I stopped there for the night and opened write-ins since it was getting late. I hope you enjoy! Let me know what you think!
Also, I literally just forgot to have a scene on the boat where Akane gave Azula her dagger gift, so instead I'm just going to say Akane was waiting to give it to her until they got home and she could do her hair properly. Sorry! DX
Well, things are heating up. I doubt we would actually manage to keep ourselves from speaking to Iroh in private. Last night's live chat was pretty interesting.
Ok, I was not ready for that ending. We might need to accelerate our disposal of Ozai. A real pity we couldn't bring Kori with us, an earthbender on the fire court would be a very interesting wild card.
It's rather clever - normally stories don't manage to have the "I love this person" vs. "being gay is bad" internal tug-of-war, since whichever side the quest audience falls on dictates the flow. Here, you've managed to provide an obstacle -but a surmountable one- to the audience's desire for Akane to be with Mitsuko, making the progress of their relationship much more believable.
But since this was almost certainly your plan, you probably already knew this!
It's rather clever - normally stories don't manage to have the "I love this person" vs. "being gay is bad" internal tug-of-war, since whichever side the quest audience falls on dictates the flow. Here, you've managed to provide an obstacle -but a surmountable one- to the audience's desire for Akane to be with Mitsuko, making the progress of their relationship much more believable.
Kosm is honestly amazing at portraying realistic internal struggle. Mary from 420 is a better example, where her internal struggle is the vast majority of the conflict in the plot, but the practice there shows through in Akane who is outwardly much more willful and disciplined and competent, but still has stress points and hang ups that feel real. At least that's my take.
" approach, or just because Zuko managed to perpetuate the royal line just fine in canon.
