soldier boy.

Aang knew he couldn’t behave like that. He’d snapped at a former soldier, in front of the protesters. He was the Avatar – he couldn’t let his emotions get the better of him. So, he breathed slowly, and met Qin’s gaze, and heard him out. This wasn’t a time for more fighting. This was a time to listen, and understand, and be patient. There is a time for everything, Aang, Gyatso used to say. Even anger. Sometimes, especially anger. But now wasn’t one of those times.

“You’re right,” he said, peaceably. “Pent up emotions aren’t a good thing. You needed to speak I know everyone needs to be heard at the moment.” He turned to look at the crowd of protesters. Everyone needed to be heard, but everyone needed to listen too. The way they were all yelling and shouting over each other, no one was hearing anyone else. “The monks used to say that we had to let go of our turmoils,” he agreed, still looking at the protesters. “But they also used to say that you had to work through something before you could let it go.”

He turned back to Qin, and was relieved when he returned the bow. They’d got off to a bad start, that was all. There was always time to start again. And, when Qin said he had to believe him, Aang smiled back. He had total faith in Zuko. And he knew why someone like Qin wouldn’t – he didn’t know Zuko. The new Fire Lord hadn’t had time to prove himself yet. But he would. Aang nodded solemnly. “Thank you for believing me,” he said. “I know Fire Lord Zuko will show you I’m right.”

     “As much as I respect the wise words of the monks, I must say that these people,“ Qin pointed to the dispersing protestors, “They’ve kept their inner turmoils buried for one hundred years. Some let them go and got imprisoned or even killed for them, some destroyed their inner self with. Being the bridge between ours and the spirit world, you must know how hard that can be for some people. Losing your spirit.“ His words had a feeling of firmness in them. The soldier himself was in this situation as of now. The path of redemption was before him yet he didn’t have the full strength and spirit to walk it. Every battle and every burned ace weighted him down more and more, trying to take him down to the abyss and devour him.

      “I’m sorry for what the Fire Nation did to your people years ago.“ It came out of nowhere, but even though Qin wasn’t responsible for any of these heinous crimes, it pained him each time he heard soldiers and commanders taking pride in the act. It was repulsing and inhumane to take glory for the extinction of a Nation. “I hope you were able to find solace after defeating Ozai.“

     Qin nodded at Aang. “Thank you for showing me who the bad guy was.“ That was a simple truth. Avatar Aang and his friends had unknowingly and indirectly shown Qin that what he was doing by serving under Ozai’s hand was wrong and disgusting. “You helped me get on the path of atonement. How I walk it,“ he shrugged, “Only the future will tell.“

“Waterbender?” On instinct, Sokka looked around the area, expecting to see Katara pop up somewhere, using her waterbending for … something. What about this situation could be solved by waterbending, Sokka had no idea, but then again, he wasn’t the one responsible for bending water or coming up with creative uses for it. “Oh! Oh, you mean me. No, I’m not a waterbender. Just a guy … with a boomerang”—he pointed to the boomerang in question, strapped to his back—“from the Water Tribe. And what am I doing here, well, see, now there’s a big question.”

On a macro level, Sokka didn’t have much of an answer to that question. What was he doing here in the Fire Nation, instead of returning home to the water tribe? But on a micro level, well, he still didn’t have much of an answer to that question. For one, he didn’t exactly know how he should introduce himself around here. Didn’t people, well, know who he was? Hadn’t he gained a modicum of fame as one of the Avatar’s initial two companions, a hapless fifteen-year-old who’d quite literally stumbled into his role and ended up leading military sieges? Did he really have to go around and say, like, oh, you know, I’m here with the Avatar, supporting him while he does Avatar stuff? That was too embarrassing even for Sokka. Plus, he had no idea where this guy stood on the whole ‘protest’ issue (though his frustration at lack of physical space suggested maybe, maybe he wasn’t part of it) and as much as Sokka wanted to listen to the protesters, he didn’t think they would think much of him if they did know who he was. 

“See, it all started three years ago, right? Me and my sister were fishing, well, I was fishing, and she was practicing her waterbending—oh man, if you could see her back then, you would laugh and laugh, she was so terrible at it—and then we stumbled upon this giant iceberg, and she got all pissed at me and broke the iceberg, and inside the iceberg was Aang. Now, I didn’t like Aang at first, but in time, I grew to love him. But we figured out he was the Avatar, and that he would need to stop the Fire Na—to stop Ozai, and so I helped him do that, and now here we are. In the Fire Nation. Running from a protest. Wait, that sounded bad. Thing is, I agree with the protest. But I think the expectations here are a little off. You know what I mean?”

     Qin went through a plethora of expressions in the next minute or so. From a lighthearted smirk to a squint of the eyes, followed by exasperation and tiredness by the end of the story of the water tribe soldier. “Well, that was quite the ride. You do have a thing for speeches, huh? I never got your name, however. Mine’s Qin.” For a moment, Qin forgot about the entire protest ordeal and actually listened to the boy, even though he talked too much. There was a certain spring to him as if nothing bad harbored in his soul. What would Qin know of a pure-hearted soul, however? “Yes. We all know of this... fiasco with Aang. Thank you for the details, though,” he paused, quickly returning to his words, “And before you ask, yes, I met your friendly neighborhood friend, the Avatar. You two give off similar energies.”

     “No, I don’ t know what you mean.“ Qin honestly replied, taking a moment to recollect his thoughts. “I know that the timing might be sudden and impulsive, but what the people want are expectations that can be perfectly met.“ With these words, his gaze pinned on the boomerang guy. “I think as part of the Southern Water Tribe, or really, any of the two tribes at this point, you should be one of the many people demanding the Fire Lord to act fast. Given that you know him personally, have you ever asked him what he plans to do to revive your sister tribes? Especially your home one, which was devastated by three generations of Fire Lords.“ Maybe it wasn’t in the right place for Qin to ask such personal questions, when he himself was part of destroying the Northern Water Tribe and killing the moon spirit. Change had to begin from somewhere.

He… doesn’t have a place to sleep tonight? She couldn’t comprehend his ‘nomad life’, or why he would choose it. Redemption and helping people was great, but always having a roof over your head and food on your table was something that every human wants, no needs. It made her feel exceptionally less sad and more outraged. But he was being sweet, giving her a hug and saying nice things. It felt... Right. Like she belonged in his arms, like a puzzle piece fitting into place. And that feeling of vulnerability overpowered both her sadness and outrage.

She worked her way out of his arms, a deep blush on her cheeks, and got up. “You can stay here, until you find another place to stay. I’ve got extra pillows and blankets, and the couch isn’t so bad.” She rushed around, trying to get the things she mentioned together in a desperate attempt to separate herself from the thought running through her mind about Qin. He was a friend, and there wasn’t anything about him that should make her feel so comfortable, warm, and happy in his arms. She placed the blankets and pillow in a neat pile on the end of the couch, then felt like she had messed up somewhere. 

Turning away from him, straightening the book shelf, she spoke. “Sometimes I get scared by things that feel safe. Things that are too comfortable, they remind me of what can be taken away.” Qin would understand that she couldn’t help but recoil when he got too close, right? It wasn’t something she could control, at any rate. “I should probably get back to the protests, y’know, since I was helping lead the whole thing.”

     Ming escaping his arms was unexpected but he was fully aware that sometimes in moments like these, people needed space more than comfort. Qin just wanted to be there for her but if recoil was what she needed, he would provide it. His eyes widened at her offer. “Listen, there’s no need-” he began speaking until he saw Ming providing him with sheets and a pillow. “Alright. I promise I won’t interfere with your everyday life,” he smiled at her, jokingly. They were used to sleeping in the same barracks back at the army, but now he only hoped he wouldn’t seem too needy.

     After her next words, Ming’s actions a moment ago finally made sense. The fact that she had called him comfortable got to his heartstrings, pulling at them tenderly. He was still uncertain if these new feelings that had started to simmer in his body had to be embraced or pushed away. For now, he was left undecided. “It’s completely fine. Take your time.“ Qin offered her a comforting smile and picked up the things Ming had prepared for him. “Yes, sure. Do your thing.“

     When Ming left, he reminisced of the day. Meeting almost the entirety of Team Avatar and Aang himself together with a few people he’d never expected to show up in the Fire Nation, both fortunate and unpleasant. With every minute, Qin began believing that maybe these riots weren’t a bad thing, even after all the mixed opinions and viewpoints he received for the span of six hours. Maybe he had to get up and repent for his sins, not trough helping old ladies boil their soup, but through making an active change through actions and demands to those who had all the control in the world. 

      This night, Qin slept one step ahead in his path to atonement.

“Tough guy, huh?” Suki smirked. She saw a bit of herself in his response, always wanting to do take on burdens herself. It wasn’t until a few years into her training that she had learned, first hand, that it was impossible to do everything herself— no matter how hard she tried. Ever since, Suki has leaned on her fellow Kyoshi Warriors for support, working as a team.

She listened to the other’s words thoughtfully, her eyesight following his gesture towards the palace before returning her attention back to him. “I see…I’m so sorry for your loss.” Her voice was solemn as she expressed her condolences. Ozai’s cruelty was a stranger to no one— not even those who served under him. She couldn’t imagine how he felt, nor the bitter taste in his mouth after having spoken of his grievances out loud. 

Suki knew that as a stranger, there was no real way of comforting this man. Regardless, Suki rested a firm hand on his shoulder, offering a small nod of her head in silent affirmation that things were going to get better. 

Shaking her head gently at his words, she offered another small smile. “I’m Suki of Kyoshi Island. And you?”

     Qin smirked at Suki’s lighthearted joke, shrugging. He wasn’t sure why this warrior-like woman wasted his time on him, but at least she hadn’t seen his speech. Maybe she would be regarding him otherwise if she knew that little fact. “You can say that. Anyone who survived the front line of this war must be tough.” He paused, looking the young woman in the eyes. “Both sides included.” Qin offered her a genuine and reassuring smile. Up until she mentioned she was Suki of Kyoshi Island. Now that explained everything.

     “I wondered why you’re so perfectly poised. That explains it.” Qin also realized that the notable girl before him was part of the infamous Avatar Team. She wondered what her political views were, though the Kyoshi Warriors weren’t usually interested to interfere in the scene of Lords and Royalties. At least that’s what people said. “So that surely means we’ve seen the worst part of this war. Soldier to a member of the Kyoshi Warriors.“ Qin approached the girl, his body language suggesting friendliness instead of ill intent. “I’ve heard about Avatar Kyoshi and her warriors. Meeting one is a true honor.“ Despite the fact that he was directly involved in any destruction upon the Earth Kingdom that the Warriors probably tried to fix.

Hahn shrugged. “I guess it doesn’t really matter–,” he paused, brows beginning to knit in contemplation as he reached far into the depths of his mind. There was something about this man that he couldn’t quite place, like a passing ghost of a past he didn’t quite want to think about. And like an itch he couldn’t scratch, the mystery of the man before him dominated the entirety of his consciousness, stealing away his words. Hahn shook his head, as though it would focus his thoughts once more. “Wouldn’t matter since you’re already talking to me,” he continued, distraction tinging his voice.

A rather loud sound towards his right saved Hahn from falling deeper into his own reverie, his own head already swivelling towards the source without him realising. But as he turned back to meet the eyes of the man before him, something in his mind clicked, unlocking whatever barriers had been holding in the details of his memories. Perhaps it was the expression on the man, or the angle from which Hahn saw him now, or the way the light hit and reflected off a dog tag that hung on his person. Perhaps it was a culmination of all, but he couldn’t be sure. It did seem that his memory, however, was rather certain that he had met this man on the Fire Nation fleet, years ago. The fleet that had cost him everything. He gave a small smile, masking the tumult within him. He didn’t feel particularly inclined to put all his trust is a very flawed and faulty human faculty, but he could put the theory to the test. “Fire Nation? No… I’m Hahn, from the Northern Water Tribe.” He took care to mention his city with a slight drawl, stretching it to fill the space between them. “And you?” Hahn added, hand outreached while gaze trained on the features of the man.

“So… these people want representation?” he asked carefully, trying to tease out the man’s view on the matter at hand, “Wonder if their fervid hopes will yield.” Which would the man before him pick? Will he hope they yield fruits of labour, or yield and break under the pressure of possible tyranny?

      Qin Lee didn’t really care that the stranger didn’t hear him on the protest. Actually, that was even better, there was no need for any unwanted enemies now that the former soldier wanted anything but that. Yet, the man before him was bitter tongued, precisely of what Qin couldn’t pinpoint. The unfamiliar’s face was bringing up old memories in his brain but it was as if a dark shroud was covering the circumstances around their meeting. Perhaps he saw the man in his many travels around the villages or the Earthen Kingdoms. Maybe he was leading a bit of a more adventurous lifestyle too until he mentioned it. The Northern Water Tribe. That’s when the shroud dispersed and allowed his guilt to overwhelm him.

      He remembered it all too well. The generals’ plan was to make the Northern Tribe bend their knee, yet the ultimate felony they did was kill the moon spirit. Qin remembered all too well the sky turning red as the moon vanished from existence, the fire burning in his veins as he was fighting for his life from Water Tribe fleet invaders, burning in him. He never wanted to hurt those men and, then, a little part of him was happy some of them were able to escape. “Beg my pardon.” Qin apologized. “I’m Qin Lee.” The soldier extended his hand to greet the man, guilt on his eyes and the bittersweet taste of attempted redemption on his lips.

     “Yes. They want transparency and representation. They are done being stomped on by corrupt Fire Lords and bloodlines.“ Qin looked at Hahn with a questionable gaze. What was he doing here? “Only time would tell if anything will be reaped from this protest. I do agree that people from all Nations would want representation before the crime-filled Royal Palace. Let’s just say the Fire Lord has a lot to think about.“

“And why is that?” she asked, immediately taking offense to the stranger’s tone despite the fact that he had spoken up in her defense. “I happen to be a frequent patron of this store.” She glared pointedly at the shop owner’s hastily retreating back. He had been happy to take her family’s money before. Once he was completely out of her sight, Mai turned her attention to the person in front of her. 

It took her a second, but she eventually recognized him as a Fire Nation soldier who she had seen him in passing around the palace. He could have been one of the guards who stood by the palace front gates the many times she had visited Azula or Zuko. Or maybe she remembered his face from the many times Azula brought her along to watch soldiers train, pointing out their every mistake and weakness–her idea of hanging out. Either way, he clearly knew her better than she knew him. She looked at him warily. What exactly did he knew about her–that she had been Azula’s friend? Zuko’s friend? Her father’s daughter? All of the above? None of those things painted her in the best light at the moment.

“If you’re about to yell at me about how terrible my family is, do yourself a favor and save your breath,” she said brusquely. “I’m here for dessert, not a lecture.” She felt a flash of regret when she reminded herself that he had stepped in to defend her, and that her overreaction was overly defensive. But she couldn’t help it after the whispers and cold looks she had noticed following her since the protests yesterday. She almost regretted not listening to her mother’s panicked pleas to stay home. 

     “No need to bite. I come in peace. Wouldn’t be the same story if your father was around.“ Qin snarled, coming closer and looking at the available pastries. A peach-filled tart caught his eyes but he only pretended to look at it. It was disappointing that Mai didn’t see him as the person who dealt with that stupid cook. She probably saw him as the soldier who guarded Ozai’s Palace or Azula’s personal beating rack. He’d imagine the faces of soldiers were mixed together for Mai at this point. He was thankul he was never forced to spar with Azula nonetheless. Standing here would only be a wild dream.

      “I’m not here for you at all, to begin with. I didn’t anticipate an encounter like that.“ It felt powerful, the way he was talking to her. Now that he had all the freedom in the world to voice his opinions on anyone who even barely touched the royal life, Qin felt free. Should she harm him, the people would riot and the Fire Lord would supposedly have to do something about her. Under Ozai’s reign, he probably would have already lost his head. Her father had done many terrible things to his village and thus, to Qin’s family as well. Even though the ex-soldier has now distanced himself from his parents, he still couldn’t forget. “I guess we can both agree your father is terrible, though, judging by the way you pronounced the word by itself. He truly has done some gruesome things to some of us.“ Qin offered her a friendly look filled with only a drop of venom. He felt like the girl wasn’t exactly on friendly terms with her old man. “Do you agree?“

“People are guarding him,” Aang snapped back, gesturing to the literal guards standing at the gates of the Palace. He knew he’d spoken sharply, and he shut his mouth and exhaled slowly. It was the stress of the protesters, his protectiveness over his friend, getting the better of him. He couldn’t talk to anyone like that, especially not a Fire Nation citizen, in the middle of a protest. As he breathed out, he imagined the anger as a red cloud, billowing out of his mouth. It was a very old trick Monk Gyatso had taught him. 

When the stranger asked how much time Zuko would need, Aang saw him for what he was. Just a guy who wanted answers. And he wished he could give them, but he didn’t know. They couldn’t put a date on it yet. But, instead of saying that, he said, “Of course he’s had thoughts of it. But it’s not my place to talk about the Fire Lord’s plans.” He knew it sounded like he was dodging the question, and he kind of was, but it was true, too. “He’ll make a speech and tell everyone what his plans are when he’s ready to,” he said, in an even, calm tone. “In the mean time, I’m not here as his representative.” It was surprisingly hard to remember that, but it, too, was true. He was the Avatar, not Zuko’s ambassador.

He saw the dog tag hanging from the guy’s neck, and squinted at it, reading the name sideways on the metal. “Qin Lee?” he said, glancing up at the stranger. “Is that you? I’m Aang.” He figured Qin Lee knew that, but maybe he didn’t. A lot of people called Aang the Avatar or just Avatar, but he preferred being called by his real name. Being referred by his title always made him feel sort of awkward. He put a closed fist against his hand and bowed quickly in the formal Fire Nation greeting, hoping that introducing himself would smooth things over. And, when he straightened up, he said, “I know people will have a hard time getting used to Z– Fire Lord Zuko –” He’d almost called Zuko by his first name. “– And change is always hard, even good change. But he’s going to be good for his nation.” He said that without a shadow of doubt.

     The former soldier quite liked the young airbender, the innocence in his voice and poise emitting rays of positivity and firmness that everything would be okay. As much as Qin wanted to bite into this sugarcoated fruit of hope, he couldn’t until he saw actions. That’s how he was trained like. He shouldn’t expect anything less and words didn’t satisfy him. Anyone could promise empty voids and play games of words. Something about the Avatar, however, made Qin believe in the good for the first time since all the blood spilled under Qin Lee’s wildfire. The youg boy’s soul was filled with good and it showed, contrasting Qin’s ichor filled veins.

      Qin felt sorry that for his sarcastic remarks and attempts to make Aang snap.  “I will take your word then. I had a-“ Qin bit his lip. Was this right? “I held a speech at these protests, alright? But it was needed. I think you out of all people will agree that pent up emotions are a ticking bomb ready to explode.“ He paused. “I’ve always admired the stories of the air nomads and their ability to meditate and completely let go of their turmoils.“ Just the mention of the now non-existant airbenders made Qin shiver. Even though he wasn’t even born yet when Sozin had completely anihilated their homes, Qin couldn’t help but feel some form of repentance was needed on his side.

     “Yes, that’s me. Qin Lee. Former soldier of the Fire Nation Military. Current atoner. Or at least I try.“ Qin cracked a small smile and dropped his dogtag underneath his linen shirt after. It wasn’t needed anymore. The soldier returned the bow and looked Aang in the eyes. He figured that the Avatar presented himself with his first name because the heavy shoulderplates of the Avatar duty were the new responsibility the boy had to live with during his entire life now. Qin kind of understood that problem. His onyx colors contrasted againts the airbender’s walnut tints, the moment of silence much appreciated by Qin. “I suppose I must believe you then, Aang.“ The firebender offered a small smile. There was no need to argue with a person who had nothing but good inside of their being.

   “And I must say tonight that 'a riot' is the language of the unheard.

     Qin Lee decided that going together with a person like Ming who very much shared the same beliefs as him was a good idea. Having a friend around made the situation less tense and actually calmed his nerves. It was with surprise that Qin had reacted to the new Fire Lord's idea to hear the people out. He wasn't imagining Zuko to have even heard what the protests had tried to voice out, yet apparently he wanted input. This thought alone instilled a glint of hope in Qin's mind. Even then, he wasn't too quick to forgive or entirely put his life on the line for the newly crowned royal, though. The boy Lord still had to prove his worth.

     Qin was planning to step up on the podium and speak today. Cold shivers ran through his spine every time he thought about that. He wasn't a speaker. His way with words were witty and snappy in a conversation but to be one of the people's selection for a public forum meeting was quite nerve wracking for the former soldier. His hands were shivering a bit, hence why they were hidden inside the pockets of his pants. His right leg was tapping on the ground restlessly, the last fibers of his conscience telling him to calm down.

     Qin Lee had many ideas how to respond to the Fire Lord's requests. The last few days had given him enough time and material to think over, a list of requests piling up each day and night. He wasn't sure if Zuko would even consider his ideas, but he had to try. For all the fathers and mothers who struggled to feed their family or even themselves. For all the people left with no roofs over their head due to Ozai's tyranny. He had to act as their voice.

kai turned to look at the man with a curious expression. she seemed rather nonchalant until he mentioned the apple. her fingers wrapped around it tightly. “ i’m not one to call things before i see them, ” she remarked, regarding fire lord zuko and his new reign, “ so waiting is all we can do. for better or worse, we’ll find out soon enough. ”

she took another bite of the apple before holding it out. there went her lunch, but if it avoided conflict ? she wouldn’t complain.

“ it’s yours if you want it. mind the bite marks. ” she shrugged slightly. “ it’s a little mealy. ”

she stilled when he seemed to recognize her, and she took the chance then to really look at him. in that moment, her blood ran cold. she felt like she was going to be ill. all of her instincts were saying run, kai, run, but she steeled herself to remain where she was. she looked at him and immediately she knew. fire nation soldier. someone she’d run into while she was imprisoned.

she planned to play it off. she hoped she’d do it well.

“ know you ? ” she squinted her eyes as she looked at him, her whole face scrunching up. “ i don’t think so ? my family is rather reclusive unless we’re going to ember island and — oh ! ” she clasped her hands together and smiled widely. “ maybe that’s it ? i played kuai ball literally every day with a whole lot of people. maybe you were one of them ! ”

     Qin grabbed the apple and bit it confidently. He looked behind and saw the unsuspecting vendor trying to sell more of his goods. In a normal situation he would go back and pay, but he didn’t play by the rules for the entirety of this day. Why should it be different now. “I suppose you’re right,” he hummed and clicked his tongue as if he was rating the apple. “The apple’s also fine. I suppose stolen goods taste sweeter. Was that the phrase?”

     He squinted at her story, clouds of memories unfolding before him. Steel bars, a dripping ceiling and water drops pouring over the metal floor and emitting a clinging sound. The Fire Nation prisons were a nasty place no matter what you were put there for. ‘War criminals’, as the Military liked to call them, thieves or rioters, it wasn’t the most pleasant confinement a prisoner could get. It was very much possible that the girl in front of him was a prisoner he had once guarded, but Qin didn’t like to jump into conclusions. “I’ve never been to Ember Island. I don’t like kuai ball either. I’m more of a Pai Sho guy.” Qin faked a smile. 

     “Are you sure you never got caught for your thievery before? Or you were always that discrete before?” Qin threw the apple on the ground and made sure his dog tag army necklace was seen by the other. Sometimes the simple things were the best interrogation.

It was a relief to Suki that he seemed to respond with less aggression than his previous outburst. It must be the stress. She thought to herself, offering him a courteous smile. “I’m so sorry to hear that. If you’d like, we could try to arrange you a meeting with a medic, get some ice on your bruises to prevent them from getting any worse.” It was a bit saddening to hear how familiar he seemed to be with receiving bruises. Based on the small reaction alone, Suki understood that he’d probably faced many hardships leading up to the day’s protest.

“If you’d like, I could also escort you to a more secluded area until the crowd dies down.” She offered further, raising her voice to compete against the shouts that surrounded them. “That way you could catch your breath again until you’re ready to rejoin your peers or return home.” Despite what some may believe, Suki did not intend to silence any of those who wished to voice their disdain on the matter at hand. Instead, she only wished to avoid an escalation of anger, allowing for a peaceful reconciliation. 

     Qin scoffed at her helping offer. It was kind, but there was no need for medics involved. “Thank you for your offer. It’s kind of you but I fear I don’t have the time for a healer. I can-” he bit his tongue. Could he mend his own wounds? He lived with years of war trauma behind his back, yet he claimed he can outgrow his wounds. “I can deal with it myself.”

     “I don’t have peers.“ he bit, shrugging his shoulders. “I frankly don’t know anybody around here. My best bet is that eventually a soldier up there might have been in my year of basic military training.“ Qin pointed to the Palace of the Fire Lord and looked the stranger straight int he eyes. He wondered how this well-poised woman would react to his revealment. Maybe she wasn’t the one to like Fire Nation soldiers who helped bid Ozai’s will. “I don’t even have friends who I’m sure are alive right now. For all I know they might either be imprisoned or killed during the events of Ozai’s reign.“

     Qin was hesitant to ask the other for her name for he wasn’t sure if he needed to know, yet why not make a new friend while around here? He could use more friends, maybe that would easen him up a bit. “What’s your name, if it’s not rude?“

Looking up from his notebook, he laughed softly at Qin’s subtle dig. “Yeah that’s fair, I may have been projecting a bit when I said no one knows what they’re doing…” Teo trailed off, closing the notebook and sticking it back underneath his seat. “I’m not from here, I don’t really have a right to be commenting on the way people who live in the Fire Nation have been impacted by Ozai’s reign.” He watched as the people began a new chant and pumping fists to the rhythm of their words. “People feel like they can finally have some control over their own lives and decided to grab the metaphorical komodo rhino by the horns.” A smile broke across his face. “I don’t recommend doing that in real life though, the outcome is really a toss up.” His expression grew thoughtful, turning rapidly surprised at Qin’s sudden outburst. “Yeah I guess you’re right, the real world should be like that. I think I’ve gotten too used to changing things by navigating the system that already exists.” Teo paused. “But the system that exists isn’t built with people like me in mind, I’ve  just assumed that I wouldn’t be powerful or influential enough to change it on my own.” 

His expression shifted into one of pride as Qin complimented his wheelchair. “Thank you!” His eyes turned soft. “I’m really proud of it. I’ve made some other prototypes, not the chair, just some other designs that could help people’s mobility.” Teo’s eyes lit up at the other boy’s question. “I mean yeah of course I have!” He gesticulated wildly. “I just didn’t have time to think about it during the war.” He leaned forward, eyes full of curiosity. “Why do you ask?”

      And that was his opening, right there. Inside, Qin was feeling weird voicing his opinions but with each second it felt like that’s what was right. The citizens had to have a say and that included every citizen of the world. “Every person that has been affected by Ozai’s crimes has a say in this. It doesn’t matter that you’re not from here.” The former soldier thought if he had impacted Teo’s life in some way, directly or not. What if one of the many people who’s life he ruined was one of the boy’s family members or relatives? “You have as much say in this as we do and you should let your voice be heard.” Qin’s expression was soft, reassuring and encouraging. “Remember that.”

     “You should be proud.“ In the last few days Qin had seen with his own eyes poor people struggling. Some of them very much needed that boy’s talent. There were so many ways in which such a proficient inventor could help -- from household items, to maybe a fireplace that would work without wood and coal. Maybe all the people with hardened lives by disability or suffering from injuries directly originating from the war itself could benefit from Teo’s brilliant mind. “I ask because-“ he paused, thinking about the words he would use. “I find your chair brilliant. Genious, actually. I’ve seen with my own eyes people who could use these inventions, which I suppose expand much more than this,“ he pointed to his fantastic chair. “For improvement in their life. Have you ever thought about helping people with your skills?“ Qin smiled, something he didn’t expect after the current chaotic events.

Once they arrived at the apartment, she silently thanked her mother and the military for instilling upon her the idea that your living area should be spotless at all times. She moved to the kitchen to begin heating tea, and then came back into the living room to sit on the cushioned furniture. She listened to his comments about the plush seating, while pouring them both a cup of tea. Once he was finished, she took a sip before placing the cup down and responding to his comment on the protest.

“It seems our days have been very similar. I walked out my door and was suddenly leading the parade of people to the courtyard. And you were just passing through before being ambushed.” She stopped to think for a moment, softly brushing some hair from her face. “However I got more sweeped up in it than you did. I’ve also got to go back at some point to keep my neighbors from attempting to burn the palace down, which will be fun.” 

She grabbed one of his hands before adding, “But it’s okay to have an opinion and voice it. Just do it on your terms. Maybe you aren’t one for spontaneous speeches, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have thoughts that should be heard. And none of anything you’ve done has been ‘volatile.’” She squeezed his hand, then let go to grab some honey from the kitchen to sweeten the tea a bit. 

When she got back, she stirred a bit of honey into the tea and left the container on the table for Qin to use. She sipped at it, and was satisfied with the taste. Returning to the conversation, she tried to lighten the mood. “So, do you like this place? I know you said it was better than the barracks, but pretty much anything is. Does it compare to the place you’re staying at?” 

She looked around, trying to see the room from an outsider’s perspective. It was plainly furnished, a coffee table and couch against one wall and a small bookshelf across from that. She got up to run her finger along the book spines, and plucked out her most worn book. She brought it back over to where they were sitting, and sat it on her lap. She traced the letters on the cover with her finger as she spoke. “This is a book that was given to be by my mom. I used to read a few pages every night, but now… it hurts to even look at it knowing she’s gone.” So much for lightening the mood.

     Qin chuckled at Ming’s story about her neighbors almost burning down the Palace. Now that would’ve been a plot twist to die for. He wasn’t expecting that the two ex-soldiers were now stirred up in protests for justice, but it felt quite pleasing. Qin was scared after he had shared his thoughts to the public but right after seeing how people like the Avatar were concerned about this meant that they have made a breach. So much for remaining peaceful after the Army. It seemed like a new fire was harboring inside Qin Lee.

     Her reassuring words brought a smile to his face. “Maybe I like spontaneous speeches now.” Qin looked Ming in the eyes, shrugging. “They are a bit exhausting, but,” he paused, biting his lip a bit. “There’s nothing wrong about them. We’ve been silenced long enough. Our words are a hundred years of oppression all in one. It was inevitable. It had to happen.”

     "Yes, yes, the place is great!” he sat on a chair, taking his tea and taking a sip of it. Qin tried to avoid the topic of his home. For the last two weeks, he’s been on foot most of the time, every day sleeping in a different house. He was helping old people with their everyday troubles and usually asked for shelter just for the night. The longest stay he had at the same household was two nights at the lady who had taken him in just before he came to Caldera city. 

     “Well, about that.“ he placed his tea on the table in front of him, deciding not to place any honey in it. “I don’t really have a place. I roam around. I figured it made the entire adventure persona more interesting.“ Qin chuckled, but he actually longed for a roof that he could call home. “I sleep in different households helping with the things there. You know, boiling soups for people without enough resources, lighting up the fireplace, dusting off dirty corners. Primary helping old people anyway, they are the most helpless right now.“ His features turned into a thoughtful expression. “That’s the nomad life, I guess.“

     His heart dropped to his stomach when Ming shared the news of her mother passing. When they were back in the army, she kept telling him stories of her village and her mother had been part of those tales. He always thought that he had shitty parents, though his own mother really only tried to be the perfect housewife. It pained him that she didn’t say anything when her son was forced into the Army, but it was her word against his father’s. What could’ve she possibly done? Qin Lee stood up from his chair, and quickly took the book from Ming’s hands. He placed it aside, his onyx eyes gazing into her own. She had seen so much pain and he hated himself for not being in touch after all these years. But fate had met them today and that had to mean something.

     Qin gently placed his hands on the sides of her head, pressing it against his chest into a warm hug. “I’m so very sorry.“ Qin allowed Ming to take a deep breath in his embrace. He didn’t know if her support system allowed her to stay sane after the terrible event. Hell, he didn’t even know if she had a support system. “I’m sure you’re making her extremely proud. She wouldn’t want her daughter to remain extinguished.“ Qin pulled away, smiling victoriously and assuringly to Ming. “You must burn and let the world know who you are and what pains you. You are doing the right things.“ He tried to make himself smile warmly, but it pained him to see Ming go through so much sorrow, even though she didn’t show it on the surface.

Something about this guy put Aang on his guard immediately. He carried himself like a soldier, and he gave Aang a dark look as soon as he spoke. He’d thought this would be an easy dispute to solve – one good, simple, thing he could fix in a crowd of protesters all getting riled up and angry. But something told him that this was gonna be a bigger deal than just resolving an easy dispute between two angry strangers. For one thing, the other guy had left, but this man was still looking at Aang like he didn’t like him. Aang was used to that – he knew he wasn’t universally loved – but he hadn’t seen it for a while. He’d spent the last few weeks around his friends and allies, preparing for his big battle with Ozai. It was still kind of strange to be around Fire Nation civilians.

“There aren’t any reinforcements,” he replied. “We don’t need any.” That wasn’t completely true – the Palace was guarded, but Zuko didn’t seem to be sending anyone out here to quell the protesters. And Aang thought that was the right thing to do – it might turn ugly if the people thought they were being shepherded away. They had a right to be here, as long as they didn’t turn violent. But then, when the stranger apologised (at least, Aang decided to see at as an apology) he smiled a little. “But… yeah, it’s been a lot,” he agreed. He didn’t wanna have a fight with a complete stranger, after all. Not in the middle of a crowd, or at all, if he could help it.

He didn’t say anything for a few moments, just gave a quick glance at the crowd, and then looked back at the stranger. “They have some truth to them,” he repeated, in a measured tone. “But we all want the same thing. Justice, change…” He met the stranger’s gaze again. “The new Fire Lord needs time to put things in place.” Zuko wasn’t here to speak for himself, so Aang felt like he had to do it. He didn’t want to say that the people didn’t have a right to protest – of course they did – but he was a little annoyed that they’d done it during his friend’s very first council meeting. He knew he should have risen above that, and been more neutral, but being a fully realised Avatar didn’t mean he was totally above his own feelings.

     “Well, that’s a bit dumb. Somebody ought to be guarding our new Fire Lord, right?” Qin quipped, lifting his left eyebrow. “I reckon the Avatar is more than capable to guard him, though. After all, you are the one who put an end to the misery this world was.” But are you ready to put an end to Zuko’s tyranny, should he reach extremities much like his father? Qin wanted to ask Aang that, but he kept his mouth shut for now. Why should he ruin the ‘friendly’ conversation when he could keep the cards close to his chest?

     “How much time?“ he asked, sincerely. “I understand that, but is he planning on telling us he needs time for two months straight? I know this entire Fire Lord thing was unexpected as much as Ozai’s dethroning was uncertain just a few weeks ago, but I’m sure Zuko has thought about this in the past.“ Qin paused, considering his next words very carefully. “Leading, ruling, changing the Nation. All these years in exile which he presumably spent to hunt you, he must have had thoughts of dethroning his father and doing something else to the Nation. Good or bad.“

     Qin wondered if the Avatar had seen him protest and hold a speech in front of random Fire Nation villagers. He didn’t know if it was best to reveal his identity yet, but knowing the most powerful bender in the world personally was a privilege and an advantage. Schemes were forming in his mind and only if he had someone to share them with, Aang would serve as the promise Zuko would follow his orders. The Avatar had to remain neutral and aid in dire need for the world’s wellbeing, so Qin only wondered if he would practice his bending-taking skills against his very good friend, should the need arise. 

     The dog tag from his neck was hanging loosely. Qin didn’t cover it up on purpose. On the front of it, there was Qin Lee’s name and another name, which he kept close to his heart. He still wondered if she was alive. “I’m used to war and scars. I can’t help but be a sceptic of change. All these people will have a hard time getting used to their new ruler who they don’t know a single thing about. That’s all I mean.”