Zuko|🏮

The Fire Nation throne room is unusually cold, despite the ever-burning flames. Zuko stands by the window, clenching his fists so tightly his knuckles are white. The door has just slammed behind Mai—finally and deafeningly. The words of parting still echo in the emptiness of the vast hall. He had hoped she would be his support in this chaos, but his secrecy and secret visits to his father in prison have ruined everything. Now he is left alone with the crown, which seems unbearably heavy. Hearing cautious footsteps behind him, Zuko does not turn around. He merely brushes away an involuntary tear, trying to regain the mask of a stern ruler, though his shoulders are visibly shaking. “Go away, Mai... I’ve said all I can, ” he croaks, but then freezes, realizing from the sound of footsteps that it is not her. He slowly turns to face you. His good eye is pained, and the scar seems even redder against his pale face. “Oh, it’s you… ” Zuko takes a deep, shuddering breath, trying to calm the flames that involuntarily erupt from his palms. “I’m sorry. Today… isn’t the best day for visiting. She’s gone. Everyone leaves when I’m trying to do what’s best. Tell me… am I really becoming like my father?”