Set: #3
Week 9: Arranged Marriage
Genres: Drama, Romance
Rating: K
Setting: Fire Nation (post-comics)
Arranged Marriage
"You can't do this to me! I was already locked away for a year, remember?!"
"The Earth Kingdom wants to see you held accountable for your actions. How are we supposed to mend global relations if – "
"There has to be another way. Something else, anything else." Azula looked pleadingly past her brother at the council of his peers.
The Fire Lord sighed. "Well, there is… one other option, but I don't think you're going to – "
"Out with it."
"We could arrange for you to marry an Earth Kingdom or Water Tribe nobleman. Of course, that would mean leaving the Fire Nation and – "
"I'll do it."
"Really...?"
"If it's between that or getting thrown in prison, then… yes."
Zuko turned to his friends to gauge their feelings. Everyone seemed content with this agreement except for one.
"This is ridiculous," Sokka spoke out. "You can't force her to marry someone she doesn't even know!"
"It's okay, Sokka," Azula murmured.
"Then I'll do it," he said confidently. "I'll marry you."
He was immediately met with passionate objections from his friends.
"You don't have to do that…" Azula whispered.
"I know," he smiled.
She smiled back, her eyes filled with hope.