Yeah… The muse is unbelievably strong in this…
Disclaimers: Look at the first page.
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/Past/
"-I fought in a civil war and can literally move mountains! But they still think I'm made of porcelain-!"
It has been a few years since that decisive battle was won, but the reparation is still an ongoing process. After recent events he wants to forget, Zuko thought he finally deserved a drink. And since this is of personal matters, the brooder felt that he didn't need the gang involved.
But he wondered if the little blind menace is part bloodhound for his broodiness. Now it's a difficult task to limit the woman's order of Long Island (half the tea and double the booze).
This must be payback for cheating Toph of her life-changing fieldtrip. But like a good friend, Zuko patiently listened as she vented. "-I love my parents, I really do. But they can be so GRRR…!"
Zuko thought it was over when her head met the table. He was wrong when she turned a tipsy bleary face towards him. "Am I so weak that I can't push them aside like every other obstacle?" Great… she is more than one type of drunk.
He patted her head like the lost puppy she looks like now. "With all that power in your fingertip, knowing when to use it… and when to hold back shows that you're far stronger than anyone… and you may give credit." How uncle would be so proud of him right now if he weren't drinking anything but tea.
"Maybe its better to leave before you do something you'll truly regret." The Firebender heard a mumble as he calmly enjoyed the light burn in his stomach.
Then she sat up straight and directed him a more focused gaze. "Speaking of 'leave'; what's this I heard of wanting to get out of the country?" That's drunk type number three.
He miserably sighed. It was no secret but it wasn't a topic that was easily brought up. But leave it to Toph, ever so blunt, to break the ice with a boulder. Thankfully, she gave him his turn to unpack.
"-don't get me wrong. I'm glad my family's name has been cleared. But-." The aftermath left a scar that is more hidden and pronounce than the one on his face. It may be difficult, but he can still see some fear despite his heroic service.
But that's not the only reason why the former Villain felt like starting anew somewhere else. He had already done what he could to compensate what his… family had done. But the scarred warrior doesn't know what can be done now for said family. Other than his uncle, the remaining members are left estranged to one another. It was not the home he had longed for in the past.
With his uncle's blessing, maybe he has to search for something again… This time for himself. "-Maybe a bit of soul-searching is what I need."
Zuko almost spilled his drink when she latched on to his arm. "Take me with you!"
"Why?" he asked after shaking his drinking buddy loose.
"Like you said: maybe leaving is better. I'm hoping that the distance will cool both our heads and maybe we can meet half-way." Toph tried reasoning by borrowing his own.
That did seem… sound. And it's not like it's kidnapping if she wanted to go. "I guess. But do you have a passport?"
That hopeful expression instantly crashed. "I do but guess where it is? That's right! With my parents! And that's before figuring out which of the hundreds of written documents is mine!"
It became more heated when she munched a handful of spicy flakes. "All legal ways to get one involves them! And there's no way they're going to help me leave their sight if they have anything to say about it!"
Watching another glass being downed, he tried at least to humor the fuming heiress. "There's another legal way. But it involves getting two unrelated people together." True as it was, he never expects any fruition from the offhanded comment.
"Then marry me!" Zuko was sure that he wasn't the only one choking on their drink. He may have also coughed a fireball or two.
If the blind woman can't see the disbelief in his face, he made sure she heard it loud and clear. "WHAT?!"
"My parents are still traditionalists and it's only a matter of time till I'll be a bride to some money-leaching snob!" He calmed a bit at hearing this particular tidbit. "If, and I mean only if, I were to get married, at least to somebody I know… and they know the real me." That brief sadness was quickly shaken off as Toph tried to elaborate her scheme, though he believed half was the alcohol talking.
"-It's a perfect sc- plan! You know I don't need a man and you were about to swear off dating after Mai!" Well… she's not wrong there. Four times he tried getting together with a girl ended up in a disaster (June doesn't count). The last one was actually the reason why he's here in the first place.
"-For some of my inheritance, I just need your help with all the written legal stuff. Heck, I'll even let you write the divorce papers!" But he's still worried of that one serious factor. WHY IS SHE NOT WORRIED OF THAT?!
"Why do you think I can help with your 'perfect' plan?! Why not the others?!" Zuko was frantically hoping he wasn't the first one she approached so that the others may have come-up with some advices by now.
The Earthbender scoffed before listing why not. "Twinkle-toes is a pacifist, Sugar Queen is in the title and if we finally got Snoozles away from lovey-dovey, we may need a pack of jerky and tons of sarcasm. The gang means the world to me. But let's face it: they don't know courtroom drama!"
The alcohol must have taken its toll, because there was no way Toph will slump over, looking so much smaller and vulnerable. The fire in her eyes were being doused by unshed tears. "A golden cage is still a cage. I'm hoping that coming from a similar background, you would understand why I'm desperate." And the sad thing is… he does.
"Look..." Zuko massaged the growing headache, hoping also to cover his embarrassment upon the realization of who he's talking to. "…I'm not yet leaving anytime soon. So, you have time to… think this plan of yours through."
Toph will deny any small sound she made when a strong yet gentle arm wrapped around her lithe frame. "But I'll try to help."
She will also deny that somehow the reassurance and hug made her feel safe. "Even if it is smuggling me out?" The cheeky heiress asked.
"Hopefully we'll not get to that." That small gesture was enough to lift her mood because she ordered everyone's drink. Sighing indulgingly amidst the cheers, Zuko forked out the cash. "Give me the Cactus Juice. Because there's no way I'm going to be found more sober than her."
xxxxx
/Present/
"...After that life-changing fieldtrip, BAM! Here you are!" Izuku could easily be mistaken for a strawberry after hearing this tale amidst a stunned yet captivated audience.
Zuko can only palm his face and tried to salvage some of the younger ones' innocence. "Toph... Please include that it was years before we had our son."
"I can't see the problem, Zuko." She even tried to be innocently cheeky about it.
But he's not Sokka. "You can't see at all." The sheer dryness of his tone was just as humorous. Oh, how she loves those blunt and fearless comebacks. Probably something she'll teach these students of theirs later.
"You eloped?!" A bespectacled white-haired girl exclaimed from the back.
Toph uncaringly waved in front of her face. "With my condition, my parents will think that signing a marriage proposal is doing me a favor. And with my Quirk, there's no way am I sticking around for a Quirk marriage." The girl and her white-haired brother stiffened.
"But that's back in the days. I don't want to hear any of your folks coming here to complain because I gave you some ideas! Or at least make sure you really think it through because it will definitely be an uphill battle." The blind teacher realized the irony of that statement.
"It may not be the cushy life, but I got a better deal imaginable." She fondly ruffled her flustered son's soft hair. "And marrying your best friend ain't so bad." Then gave her husband an affectionately soft punch. Toph can never explain but she can feel their warmth and smiles.
"Welp, mushy time's over! Time to pound you softies a bit before calling it a day!" Everyone heavily sweats, knowing how… enthusiastic their teacher can be in training.
Thankfully they are saved by the more level-headed of the Midoriya couple. "Actually, why don't I take charge of these last katas? You can head home early today."
Oh, a surprise… And he's not trying to even be subtle. She directed him a suspicious glance before deciding to play his game.
If she noticed the barely hidden relief in their voices, the extra work-out tomorrow is just coincidental. "Okay! And Tails. Knuckles. You can go early too, because Sparky is kind enough to clean up afterwards." The woman called out before leaving their dojo.
"Hai, Sifu!" "Wait, what?!" Toph chuckled at her 'surprise'. But she still pondered what her husband was hiding from her. He seemed a bit tense, but not too tense to mean something worrying.
It wasn't their wedding anniversary already, was it? Because Izuku, the ever-thoughtful son of theirs, would have reminded them. Not that she minds but it was sweet of him. And more reason to get some sweets into the house.
Whatever it is, the Midoriya matriarch can't wait to dig up his 'clever' surprise! Maybe after she find out what these people wants.
But as she drew closer, her good mood slowly dipped. Because each step 'painted' a picture of her visitors. Not because they were an elderly couple. Not because their simple clothing still projects extravagance. But because… she knows who they are…
Steeling her nerves and face, Toph courteously greeted them in an even tone. "Can I help you? Father. Mother."
xxxxx
The Beifongs were asked to wait while their wayward daughter freshens up. They tried to be tactful in showing how glad they were to see her again but was received by distant politeness. Their only saving grace was that they weren't thrown out (literally) and instead invited to her modest home.
They tried to be discreet, but despite being smaller and less… luxurious than what they were familiar with, the atmosphere felt livelier and homier compared to their large estate.
Their daughter returned in clean clothes carrying a serving tray. They watched in slight worry as she navigated through the room, around the sofa and laid the tea set on the low table. They nervously held back but admired how she fluidly prepared and served the hot beverage. Like… a perfect housewife. But… it was a far cry from the dirty, carefree …, happy woman they saw from a distance.
Any pleasantries they tried to exchange were met with cold etiquettes… Something the now elderly couple haven't realized was very uncomfortable when being directed by one who should have been family. It was becoming tense, not knowing how to broach their presence after so long.
"That is a very lovely picture, Toph. Can you tell me when was this?" Lao's thankful of his wife for the distraction. He hesitantly followed their line of sight to something he had been trying so hard to avoid looking at. Because that picture-filled wall reminded how little the man had with his own family.
"Can you be specific because all are blank canvases to me." Somehow… that tone was not harsh. Just factual.
When Poppy described the beautiful kimono, a warm smile finally graced the cold exterior. "We went to a festival a couple of years ago. I don't see the point of all the dressing-up but Zuko insisted I at least look nice." Surprisingly, it also felt… nice to clean-up once in a while. Toph made sure to loudly praise her bashful husband for all the efforts made with the compliments sent her way. And even if she doesn't care for the fireworks, the joyous cry of her son was the greatest music to her ears.
Then her father asked of one where they stood atop Mt. Fuji. She enjoyed the hike more than the view. But leave it to Zuko to turn this excursion to another life lesson of reaching your dreams. Visually contrasting with the prior memory, but just as fondly memorable.
Every photo they pointed at, she felt at ease regaling the experience behind each one. Of her husband's support. Of her learning. Of her son's triumph. It was almost wholesome. Thus, Toph hid the shame when she broke the picturesque fantasy.
"Izuku is my greatest treasure, even if he's Quirkless." There! The shock that their grandson is not up to their standard! It was unfair to use her son as an excuse but she needed this closure.
The practiced effort of serving tea. The memorized location of each cherished event. They had been amenable so far. But now they know of another imperfection in their perfect life.
Toph loves and misses them greatly, but she can't have them in her life if they can't accept who she really is. Who her husband was… And who her son can be.
"Fate has been unfair to young Izuku..." She heard her father sadly say. Toph prepared for the other foot to fall. For her heart to break again-.
"But he must be very strong… just like his mother." But she was not prepared for this.
The woman turned wide unbelieving eyes in their direction, shocked speechless because… that wasn't a lie. "F- Father."
It hurts how doubtful she sounded towards them. But Lao steeled himself to tell her what he had been keeping all these years. "Even when it was already slapped in my face, I stubbornly refused to believe that this strong and amazing woman was our precious little girl who once clung close to us."
"Toph, you were the greatest treasure we ever had. But I'm ashamed to admit that I do not know when we had started treating you like one that should be kept hidden away." He was once again thankful for his loyal wife, who still comforted him despite his greatest failure.
"When you cut ties with us, we never realized until it was too late. And there's no one to blame but ourselves." During their last meeting, hurtful words were thrown and possessions shattered. But what broke all their heart was the doubting of their bonds. "But know that we still love you, even all this time you were gone."
"We searched for you, hoping to apologize and bring you home. But seeing you well and happy…" Poppy spoke while glancing at the pictures of her daughter's family. "…is all we can ever ask for. We just… We hope we can be part of your new family too."
Tears were barely restrained as Toph felt them gave a low bow. "And we hope that in time… you would find it in your heart to forgive this blind, selfish fool. My little Jade Treasure." This broke all restraints as Toph vaulted to embrace the family she left behind… and found once again.
"Dad! Mom!" They missed so much of her growth, but the couple relished that they finally can hold their little girl once more.
After releasing years of resentment and longing, their broken bonds can begin to mend. Toph freely smiled as they exchange experiences in raising a family. "You're going to love Izuku."
She was hesitant for a second but proudly brought up the other member of her little family. "And even though he may not be… ideal, you can't ask for a better and more loyal partner than Zuko."
"We know. We have already met our son-in-law. He was a most gracious host." Her mother explained, sounding very pleased.
"What? How? When?!" The younger Beifong asked surprised… 'Wait a minute. Surprise…'
Unaware of the realization, her father resumed. "When we came to Musutafu, we decided to stop for a break and think on how to approach you."
"We went to this quaint tea shop and imagine our shock with who we met there. Despite our… discourteous conduct…," Lao sounded embarrassed here. "…he was very patient with us. And it was him who tried to get us to see the woman you are now."
Before she could ask for more, they heard someone at the door. "Hello? Mom, we're home!"
There they are… The two most valuable treasure that she can finally share with the rest of her family. Her brilliant son who embodies her determination and his father's passion.
Speaking of… "ZUKO!"
"Wait! Toph! Let me explain-." She masked that loving embrace by strangling this sneaky, son-of-a-!
"You better! Or I'll think you're taking lessons from Azula behind my back!" Toph hated to admit: But what would she do without this awkward boneheaded spouse of hers? Probably still have a family or two but not as good as the one she has now. Or maybe living in a cave.
She has to thank him properly later for establishing another milestone in her life. One of many that the blind woman doubted she would have seen through on her own.
xxxxxx
/Past/
A tense impasse was present as she anxiously regarded her legally-bonded partner in his office. "I get why we should leave the agency. But please explain to me again… THIS!" Toph angrily pointed to the document laid between them.
To his credit, Zuko also appeared uncomfortable talking about this. "I have here the papers to absolve our marriage… just like you said all those years ago. I won't pressure you to stay if it becomes too mu-." Most women would stop him with a slap. His spouse however did with a vicious left hook.
Even if she had drawn blood… Even when she shoved the table aside… Even if she can't see his narrowed gaze… He patiently listened as Toph vented her frustration.
"Do you think I'm a coward?! That I'd run away from a small bump on a road?! That is our son! MY son! And I won't leave him now that he needs me!" She loudly brought down a foot to emphasize her certainty.
That stomp definitely shook the house, but something has shaken her very being to appear deathly pale. "Izuku."
She hurriedly opened the door and found a little figure crying in a corner. "Mom! Dad! Please don't fight! I'm sorry for being Quirkless!"
Tentative at first, fearing she might scare him away, Toph gently rocked her little boy. "Shhh… No, sweety. It's not your fault. Never your fault for being born the way you are."
"Neither is it yours." His presence has never felt so imposing. Was this how her husband was when they were still enemies? Or was this the leader who had taken responsibility to mend old animosities?
"You were born weak, helpless and blind." She would have weathered those insults if they weren't painfully true.
"But did that stop you from being the 'Greatest Earthbender'? Who bends steel and move mountains?! Is this the Toph Beifong I fought and entrusted my life with?!" Each accusation hammered at her defense until it revealed what she had been lying to herself: She was being a coward.
"I-… You-… You're right!" Tears now freely fell as Toph finally admitted that she was indeed afraid. Afraid for her son who will meet the harsh prejudice of the world. Afraid that she will fail as a mother for her precious little one. Afraid of being a burden after all her former friend had done for her.
The mother tightly held her son, who returns the embrace with equal fervor. "I'm sorry, Izuku! I'm so… so… sorry! This is not your fault! Never your fault! I'm just a big blind idiot!"
She gently held his tiny face so that he can see the resolve in her pale eyes. "I cannot answer your question yet. But know this; no matter what route you take…, it is our job as parents to believe in you. When you fall, we'll help you back up." But now she must be brave… for him.
"M-Mom." It was not the answer Izuku wanted, but the reassurance he needed.
"And we'll always listen. Know that we love you, Izuku. Imperfection and all." Zuko knelt as he warmly gazed at his family.
"Dad." The Midoriya patriarch smiled, realizing how truly blessed he was.
"I was said to be lucky to be born. And maybe Ozai was right…" She still wanted to defend him, even if the bastard was nowhere in sight.
But Zuko elaborated the supposed slight. "Because in those countless struggles in my life, I'm eventually lucky to find things more valuable than honor."
She felt a strong yet gentle arm. "My friends…" Maybe he was remembering the others. Maybe they did start out as friends.
But now they are… "My family." Zuko finished as he extended the protective embrace towards her… their son. If she felt something wet on her forehead, she'll excuse this tough guy for not wanting to be left out from the cryfest.
Her… husband later asked what is to be done with the papers. She humorously told him to burn them. And it shocked her that's what he did. Toph was touched that he also will not leave them.
Maybe this night was described like a phoenix rebirth. Or maybe her own metaphor of heat and pressure making diamonds. But whatever bumps and turns this journey will bring, Toph's glad she has someone in this trip called life.
xxxxx
/Future?/
"Alright, Sparky. Are we preparing for a festival? Because your heartbeat is sounding a dragon dance." They're already done with breakfast, but Zuko was still fixated on that piece of paper!
He finally relented in revealing what was in the letter. "Uncle is visiting."
"Iroh-ojii is coming?!" Izuku excitedly went to his room to prepare while the sole female tried to take control of her own excitement.
Toph failed to notice how unfazed her husband was when she gave a loving 'tap'. "Hahaha! That's it? I know you can be worried for him but give your uncle some credit. Sure, he complains of his back more nowadays, but he's fitter than anyone even a third his age-."
"He's bringing Azula." he blankly supplied.
…
…
…
"Zuko, dear. Know that I love and respect your uncle dearly. But I feared for this day that he has gone SENILE!" She hurriedly exited the room. "Quick! Grab everything and Izuku while I dig a bunker! Better yet-!"
Zuko fumbled with the cellphone tossed his way. "Call Ryuko! No, not your student; MY student! Tell her I'm cashing in on a favor and NO; you are still off the table!"
"Aunt Azula is coming too?!" They don't know how or why, but Azula genuinely adores her 'little Zuzu'. 'Big Zuzu' was still trying to think of how to get the Bakugo out of the country in mere hours.
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Why did I include family drama? WHY? And this is the only one that I have written that has been resolved. Again: WHY?
Just a bit of history and cameos here. Now as usual: ideas and suggestions will be taken into consideration. Keyword: Consideration.