Author's Notes:
Sorry about the long absence. I usually only update this fic when I'm in the mood to write drabbles, which doesn't happen often. Plus, I've been busy finishing high school and graduating and such, so I haven't had much time to write. But I'm back for the moment, so here's a present for your patience.
49. Foot Binding
"It's too dangerous," Poppy said.
Toph poked her head out of her bedroom door, ear turned toward the living room.
"She's going to be difficult enough to marry off later. Besides, fragile flowers are often the most beautiful. This procedure could change her life, Poppy."
Horror made her toes curl. They're talking about binding my feet again!
"We cannot!" Poppy hissed. "Our daughter is too weak for such a thing. I will not allow it!"
Lao paused. "Perhaps you are right. Her condition does weaken her."
For the first time in her life, Toph found relief in being called "weak."
50. Hair
"Now hold still," her mother said, placing the last pin in her hair.
Mai scowled at the mirror and crossed her arms. "I look stupid."
"You look lovely." Her mother pulled the last strands of hair into the bun. "Why don't you show your friends?"
Why? So they can tease me? She stalked out into the garden.
"You're back," Azula said. "Good. We need knives for the next game."
Zuko glanced up, then froze. "You changed your hair."
Mai blushed.
"It looks good," he added, then turned in time to see Azula shoot a fireball into the trees.
Mai smiled.
51. Rockasaurus
"Rockasaurus will crush you!" her opponent roared, raising a column of rock by stomping on the ground.
"Come get me!" Toph yelled. Rockasaurus lumbered toward her, his footsteps vibrating through the cavern. The crowd chanted his name, egging him on.
Soon, they'll be shouting my name.
Toph waited for him to get close, then lunged, her foot sliding forward. A column of stone erupted from the floor, slamming into her opponent's shoulder. As he staggered back, she brought her foot in, pulling the ground out from under him. He groaned when his body hit granite.
The crowd began to cheer.