Zuko Week Day 1: Friendship

Again, I am totally ashamed of the way the colors scanned! They look NOTHING like the original. The original was...well, more vivid and easier to see (shadows and lighting wise).
I do hope you read the story, though it isn't for the contest. I think it's very fitting for the picture.

Anywho, here's the story! Beware of subtle Zutara...Very subtle...

~
Toph's laughter filled the air, "Yeah, right, Katara!"

Even Zuko couldn't help but smile at the waterbender's gentle blush. SHe bowed her head and looked at them through her lashes. Those eyes...

"She's doing it again," He thought in frustration as he shook his head to clear it. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught Sokka a little ways from camp, staring at the moon...again.

"I'll...I'll be right back," Zuko stood to see what was the matter, uncomfortably aware of Katara's following gaze. He noticed that Sokka was already n his armor, though the comet was tomorrow.

"Hey," He started softly.

Sokka jumped a little, but didn't turn his head, "Hey."

After a moment of silence, Zuko asked hesitantly, "What's wrong?"

"What? Nothing's wrong!" Sokka exclaimed hurriedly, "I mean...Why would anything be wrong? I'm just fine and dandy! Don't be ridiculous!"

Zuko chuckled, "You're a terrible liar."

"I know," Sokka groaned and looked up again.

"You miss her, don't you?"

He shrugged, "Yeah. I feel terrible about it, because...Well, I like Suki. A lot. And...I donno...I know I shouldn't be thinking of another girl, but...They're so alike sometimes! She reminds me of her, and them I feel bad, sad, and then mad."

"Sokka," Zuko said as gently as he could, "When...Whenever you start to think about her, I think you should remember that she probably wouldn't want you to dwell on what might have been. She seems like a wise girl, and she probably wants you to be happy."

Sokka looked at him then, "You think so?"

Zuko was taken aback by the vulnerability in his eyes. This was the one who was leading the attack on the Phoenix King? This was the one who planned it? Zuko just nodded reassuringly, and Sokka looked away again.

"I guess you're right," He said at last, "Yue was never very selfish. She'd be happier if I wasn't...If I wasn't so depressed. Especially right before we're about to save the world. I should probably be worried about Aang, and wondering where he is."

Zuko didn't respond, not feeling the need to. His work here was done.

Sokka suddenly turned around to look him in the eyes, "Thanks, Zuko. For being there."

Zuko felt his lips twitch into a smile, "What are friends for?"



THE END!!!!!

So...You like? Please tell!