Ashes of the Phoenix
Series: Avatar: The Last Airbender
Rating: M
Summary:
In every story, Azula is a terrifying presence, thriving on fear and control. She didn't choose this path but neither family nor foe gave her much choice. When she ended up in an unexplored forest, the spirits gave the former princess a second chance. Will she try to reclaim her past or aim for a new future? What flame will ignite from the ashes?
Author's Note:
Chapter 2: Draconic Turbulence
Day after day passed for the bedridden Azula and, as often, she was as stubborn as ever. Ever since her first day playing guest in the home of Adesoji, she was unwilling to cooperate. She refused to eat when offered food, citing that it was some type of poison. She rejected the clothes he left for her, including a robe that reminded her of the home she once loved.
To her surprise, not once did the young man show any sign of anger or disdain for her. Adesoji wasn't pleased to see her starving herself but he respected her wishes while also leaving her the option. He'd ignore the stench that had accumulated over the days or simply replace each bowl with another. His kindness baffled the ex-Fire Lord but, soon her body betrayed her and each bowl he retrieved would wind up empty.
How could someone be so caring despite her unruly behavior?
What could she do to drive someone so sickenly friendly to finally snap?
The rain pounded relentlessly against the roof of Adesoji's modest home. Azula lay still in her bed, eyes wide open, listening. The steady atmosphere throughout the building told her that Adesoji was either asleep or out. Perfect.
With practiced silence, she slipped out of the bed, her feet barely making a sound on the wooden floor. She'd memorized every creaky board over the past few days, her failed escape attempts serving as unwitting reconnaissance.
Azula eased the door open, wincing at the faint squeak. She froze, checking for any change in her "captor's" breathing. Nothing. She allowed herself a small, triumphant smirk.
The rain drenched her the moment she stepped outside, but she didn't care. Freedom was worth a little discomfort. Azula plunged into the forest, the dense canopy offering little protection from the downpour. Her father taught her better than to allow something so trivial to deter her from her goal. Not even her injuries would stop her; they could only serve to slow the inevitable.
As she ventured deeper, the forest grew unnaturally dark. Strange sounds echoed around her - growls and whispers that seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere at once. Azula's heartbeat hastened, but she pressed on, refusing to let fear win out. It only served a purpose when she was the one being held in such regard.
"Trust is for fools. Fear is the only reliable way..." She recalled the words she spat at that damnable image of that woman.
Just then, a massive shape lunged at her from the shadows. Azula instinctively raised her hands to bend, but no flame came. She stumbled backward, falling hard on the muddy ground.
The creature - a monstrous fusion of bear and owl - loomed over, its eyes glowing an eerie green. Azula scrambled back, her usual confidence shattered now.
What in the world is this thing?! her brain screamed as she held her bandaged limb.
Just as the beast was about to strike her, something whipped past Azula, coalescing into a solid form that slammed into the creature. Adesoji stood between her and the spirit, his stance protective, hands wreathed in writhing shadows.
Shadows?!
The fight was brief but intense. Adesoji moved with fluid grace, his technique keeping the spirit at bay until, with a final push, he slammed attack after attack with increasing fury. This was enough to drive the entity back into the depths of the forest.
As the danger passed, Adesoji turned to Azula. She braced herself to feel his wrath, for the furious lecture she knew she deserved. But it never came.
Instead, Adesoji knelt beside her, his furious stare now filled with concern. "Are you hurt?" he asked softly, gently checking her for fresh injuries.
Still shaken up from the ordeal, Azula stared at him, bewildered. "I... I'm fine," she managed to utter.
He nodded, relief evident on his face. "Good. Let's get you out of this rain."
As he helped her to her feet, Azula felt something shift inside her. The genuine care in his actions, the absence of recrimination...it struck a chord deep within her that she couldn't quite comprehend.
"Why?" she found herself asking as they walked back towards the house. "Why aren't you angry?"
She didn't know why such an inquiry was made, but it was an honest one. Though she'd probably never admit it, her recklessness would've resulted in a harsh reprimand from the only one to claim they believed in her: Her father, Ozai. He was a powerful teacher, using the fear of weakness to motivate her to get stronger. It worked as she enjoyed victory after victory throughout her youth...
...at least until she battled her treacherous brother and that water-tribe peasant...
Their Agni Kai was supposed to end just like every other battle before it, with her standing victorious over her fallen brother once and for all. The outcome was not to be once that girl stepped in to aid him. Had they not cheated, she would've won handily. Even then, years of sitting in therapy sessions and being chi-blocked when she got "out of line" had some effect as she considered whether her father's ways were truly correct.
That didn't mean she was immune to his past teachings.
Being angry won't help either of us. I'm just glad you're safe. Adesoji's voice broke her concentration, a small smile on his face.
Azula fell silent, mulling over his words. For the first time since she'd arrived, she didn't immediately start planning her next escape attempt. Instead, she found herself wondering about the enigma that was Adesoji, and why his kindness affected her so deeply.
Was it years of unconsciousness finally taking hold of her? If that were true, why were Zuko and his little friends so adamant about sending her to the Earth Kingdom capital? Maybe it was her weakness getting the best of her? If so, why hadn't he taken advantage of her? A former princess, especially one with a bounty, no doubt would fetch a hefty price with her so-called brother or even the black market.
Whatever idea she considered, it seemed that Adesoji's desire was only for her to regain her health. Normally, weakness would be frowned upon, yet, he was treating her with dignity, or at least as much as a forest-dwelling commoner could give her. She couldn't recall the last time someone had shown her kindness without there being some ulterior motive.
Between entering her adulthood viewed as a demented monster to being hunted down like an animal, did she deserve it?
As they reached the house, Azula hesitated at the threshold. Adesoji paused, looking back at her questioningly.
"Thank you," she said quietly, the words feeling foreign on her tongue.
Adesoji's grin widened slightly. "You're welcome, Princess. Now, let's get you dried off before you catch a cold."
As she stepped inside, Azula realized that perhaps, just perhaps, she could entertain the idea of finding solace here - at least for a little while. She wasn't completely convinced that he was innocent, but, maybe - just maybe - she could be content with being wrong.
The next morning, as the sun dried the remnants of the previous night's rain, Adesoji suggested a walk to retrieve more supplies. To her surprise, Azula agreed.
As they ventured deeper into the wooded area, Azula found herself stealing glances at her companion. His calm demeanor was a stark contrast to the chaos she was accustomed to. Trained to be a warrior, she found a measure of comfort in the tranquility.
"So," Azula began, breaking the silence, "you've been living out here all alone?"
"Adesoji chuckled softly. "Not alone. The forest is full of life, and the village isn't far."
"Vallage?" Azula raised an eyebrow.
Adesoji nodded. "You'll see. But to answer your question, I've been here most of my life."
"Why?" Azula asked, her curiosity piqued.
Adesoji's expression turned somber. "Well, when I was very young, the Fire Nation attacked my homeland." He paused, gauging her reaction. She kept her face neutral, but a flicker of something - guilt, perhaps - passed through her golden eyes.
"My parents sent me away with some other children," he continued. "We found refuge here, in this forest. It became our new home."
Azula processed this information. "So, you've been hiding all this time?"
He shook his head. "Not hiding. Living. Growing. Learning." He stopped, placing his hand on a large boulder. With a subtle movement, the rock shifted, revealing a hidden path. "I'm an earthbender, you see."
Azula's eyes widened slightly. She assumed he was a non-bender, at least until last night. If she had to guess, she might've thought he was a water bender but she had nothing to confirm it. The Avatar was considered the last airbender in existence, but... to find out he was an earthbender? Even she had to admit she never would've considered this.
"Impressive," she admitted reluctantly.
As they walked down the hidden path, Adesoji continued, "The forest taught me many things. How to listen, how to be patient. How to find balance."
Azula scoffed, showing her old rigid personality once more. "Balance is overrated. Power is what matters."
Adesoji looked at her thoughtfully. "Is it?"
"What do you mean?"
"Has power brought you happiness, Azula?"
The question caught her off guard. Before she could formulate a response, the path opened up, revealing a sight that made her gasp.
Before them lay a vibrant, bustling village. Houses were built in harmony with the trees, some even perched on the massive branches. People of various nations moved about, their clothing a mix of styles Azula had never seen before.
"Welcome to Harmony Village," Adesoji announced with a hint of pride in his voice.
Azula stared in disbelief. This place was nowhere on any map she'd ever seen before nor was it mentioned in any classes she attended in her youth. Those years weren't too far off, but the point stood. "How is this possible? An entire hidden in the forest?"
Her companion smiled. "When people work together, amazing things are possible. This village is living proof that the four nations can coexist in peace. Well... maybe three out of the four haha."
As they wandered into the village, Azula felt overwhelmed. Children played together, earthbenders worked alongside waterbenders to maintain the infrastructure, and even a few Fire Nation expatriates moved freely among the crowd.
"Why show me this?" Azula finally asked, her voice uncharacteristically quiet. "I'm a stranger. Why would you place your trust in me to see this?"
Adesoji turned to her, his expression gentle but serious. "Because I believe you needed to see it. To understand that there's more to the world than conquest and power. Here, we've found strength in unity and diversity. It's not perfect, and it can be boring sometimes, but it beats spilling blood and being a refugee for the rest of our lives. These people, everyone has a story that led them here for one reason or another."
Azula remained silent, her mind racing while she brushed some of her long hair out of her face. She still felt this revelation was misguided, but, she felt nothing like her previous self. Before her defeat, she would've viewed this place as the ultimate symbol of her worthiness to ascend the throne in her father's place; a gift to her father's inevitable rule.
But now?
Everything she'd been taught, everything she'd believed in, seemed to be challenged by this concealed utopia.
As they continued their tour, Azula found herself questioning her long-held beliefs. The sense of community, the visible happiness of the villagers - it was all so foreign to her, yet strangely appealing
For the first time in her life, Princess Azula of the Fire Nation felt genuinely uncertain about her place in the world.
As she made her way through the village, Azula remained vigilant, attuned to every sight and sound that surrounded her. Despite her attempts to maintain a sense of detachment, she couldn't help but be captivated by the bustling activity that surrounded her. Her growing unease was only compounded when she realized Adesoji was no longer beside her, adding to her already heightened sense of alertness.
A group of children caught her attention. They were engaged in a friendly bending contest, each showcasing their elemental prowess with playful enthusiasm. An earthbender created intricate sculptures, while a waterbender formed shimmering ice crystals in the air. Even a young firebender participated, his flames controlled and beautiful rather than destructive.
"Impressive mastery," she muttered, a twinge of envy in her tone.
The aroma of unfamiliar spices pulled her towards a row of food stalls. Dishes she'd never seen before tempted her with their vibrant colors and enticing scents. Despite herself, her stomach growled.
She spotted Adesoji at a nearby stall, trading some herbs he'd brought from the forest. His easy smile and friendly demeanor, as he bantered with the vendor, reminded her, painfully, of a certain acrobat-turned-traitor. It was a stark contrast to the guarded interactions she was used to from associates, whether from fear or respect for who her father was.
"Got a good deal on these moon peaches," he called out to a passing friend, tossing one over with a carefree laugh. The casual camaraderie surprised Azula.
As she watched, an elderly woman approached her. The woman's Fire Nation heritage was evident in her wrinkled, golden eyes, though her attire was an eclectic mix of colors and cultures.
"Ah, a new face," the old woman spoke, her gaze piercing. "And one carrying a heavy burden, I see."
Azula stiffened. "I don't know what you're talking about."
The woman smiled mysteriously. "The fire within slumber, child. But remember, even the smallest spark can reignite the greatest flame."
Before Azula could retort, the woman continued, "Fate has brought you here for a reason. Embrace the journey, and you may find what you've lost... and more."
Azula opened her mouth to challenge the cryptic message, but Adesoji's return interrupted her.
"Hey, I got us some food," he gleefully laughed, his arms laden with packages. "And I picked up some clothes for you too. Thought you might like something clean to wear."
Azula stared at him, momentarily forgetting the old woman, who had mysteriously vanished. "You... got me clothes?"
Adesoji nodded, seemingly oblivious to her shock. "Yeah, hope they fit. Oh, and you've got to try these dumplings. They're filled with a mix of all four nations' cuisines. It's amazing!"
As he handed a warm, fragrant package, she found herself at a loss for words. The kindness, the consideration - it was all so foreign to her.
"I... thank you," she managed, her usual sharp tongue failing her.
Adesoji grinned. "No problem. Come on, let's find a spot to eat. Wait until you taste the fusion tea they make here. It'll have even the most proficient tea master on his knees in submission, I bet!"
Hearing about tea did Azula no favors but she'd keep that to herself. Anything that reminded her of her uncle was never welcomed, but Adesoji couldn't have known that, given his life. However, she found her will giving in to the idea the more he spoke about it. Perhaps she'd indulge him, just this once?
As they walked away, she glanced back, half-expecting to find the old woman. But there was no sign of her. Shaking her head, Azula turned her attention back to Adesoji and the enticing smell of the food he'd brought.
For a moment, she allowed herself to relax, pushed aside her suspicions, and simply enjoyed the unexpected warmth of the moment. The lost princess of the Fire Nation, finding a moment of respite in a land previously unknown to her was an irony not lost on her.
Maybe I'll try that tea too if only to spite my uncle.
Achoo...!
An older man wiped his nose with a spare hankie he kept on his person. As he stood outside of a tea shop located in the heart of Ba Sing Se, his instincts couldn't shake off the feeling that someone was talking about him. Whether or not this was certain, he had more important things to think about, even if the unknown subject made him a little annoyed.
The Jasmine Dragon tea shop bustled with activity, the aroma of exotic blends filling the air. Returning behind the counter, Iroh hummed contentedly as he prepared a pot of his newest creation.
The cheerful chime of the entrance bell caught his attention. His eye lit up as he saw Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Toph enter, trailed by a weary-looking Zuko.
"Ah, welcome, welcome!" He called out jovially. "What brings my favorite customers to Ba Sing Se?"
His nephew stepped forward, his face etched with concern. "Uncle, we need to talk. It's about... Azula."
The old man's smile faded slightly, but he nodded. "Of course. Please, sit down. I'll bring some calming jasmine tea."
As the group settled around a large table, Iroh returned with a steaming pot and cups for everyone.
"Now," he spoke, pouring the brew with expert grace, "tell me what's troubling you."
Aang started, his voice no louder than the hum of a fly. "Azula's escaped, Iroh. We've been tracking her, but she seems to have vanished. The last place we spotted her was a mysterious forest that even I know little about. When we chased her inside, we were close to capturing her only to find nothing once we cornered her."
Sokka nodded vigorously. "Yeah, it's like she's become a ghost or something. A really angry, fire-throwing ghost."
"We're worried about what she might do," Katara added, her brow furrowed with concern.
Iroh stroked his beard thoughtfully. "I see. And what do you plan to do when you find her?"
The group exchanged uneasy glances. Zuko finally answered. "We need to bring her in, Uncle. She was supposed to be..." he peered over his shoulder, watching an unwitting couple pass by before resuming. "...in Lake Laogai prison for therapy. She's dangerous in her state of mind."
Iroh took a sip of tea, eyes twinkling with hidden wisdom. "Hm, but is it Azula you fear, or what she represents?"
"What do you mean?" Toph tilted her head, unseeing eyes narrowing.
"Consider this," Iroh raised his cup to emphasize his incoming point. "A tsungi horn, played poorly, can hurt the ears. but in the hands of a skilled musician, it creates beautiful music. The horn itself is neither good nor evil."
"Are you saying Azula isn't evil?" Zuko nearly shouted, incredulous.
Iroh shook his head. "I'm saying that Azula, like the tsungi horn, has the potential for both destruction and harmony. The question is, who will help her find her true melody?"
The group fell silent, contemplating Iroh's words.
"But how do we help someone who doesn't want to be helped?" Katara skeptically asked.
Iroh smiled gently. "By being patient, and by showing her different path. Sometimes, the most stubborn tree simply needs to be shown that there's sunlight beyond its shadows. It can be difficult given the past, but destiny has a funny way of placing us around the right people, and in the right places to accept this truth."
As the conversation continued, Iroh's mind wandered. Perhaps it was time for him to do more than just offer advice. Azula was, after all, his niece too. And if anyone understood the journey from darkness to light, it was him. It was this wisdom that aided his nephew, but she never had anyone to show her the same patience and support. Ozai certainly wasn't qualified in that regard. How different would her life have turned out had Azula had the chance for a liberating way of life?"
"Uncle?" Zuko's voice snapped the shop owner back to the present. "What do you think we should do?"
Iroh refilled their cups, a plan already forming in his mind. "I think," he uttered carefully. "that this situation might require a more... delicate touch. Perhaps an old man's perspective might be useful in your search."
The group's eyes widened in shock and renewed hope. If Iroh joined them, his strategic mind and experience would be a boon to their mission.
"You'll help us find Azula?" Aang excitedly asked.
Iroh nodded, a mysterious smile playing on his lips. "Oh yes. I believe it's time I took a more active role in this family drama. After all, every good tea needs a master's hand to bring out its best flavors."
As the group began to discuss their next moves with renewed energy, Iroh sipped his tea, his thoughts turning to his troubled and missing niece. Where was she now, he wondered, and what battles was she fighting - not just with the world, but with herself? All he knew was that they were planning to return to the unknown forest, no doubt abundant with spirits.
At one point, Iroh recalled telling his nephew that she "was crazy and needed to go down", but now, he only hoped that, if nothing else, she was safe.
Azula stood before a medium-sized cracked mirror in "her" room, adjusting the unfamiliar garments Adesoji had given her. The fabric was softer than she was used to, dyed in earthly greens and browns that blended with the forest. She ran her fingers over the intricate embroidery at the hem, begrudgingly admiring the craftsmanship.
"Not exactly royal attire," she muttered. "but it'll do."
As she descended the creaky wooden stairs, the aroma of a home-cooked meal filled the air. Adesoji looked up from the table he was setting, a warm smile spreading across his face.
"Hey, the clothes fit! You look... different. In a good way," he added hastily.
Azula raised a brow. "I suppose I should thank you. It's... adequate."
Adesoji chuckled. "High praise indeed. Come on, dinner's ready."
As they sat down to eat, Azula found herself studying the young man. There was something about him that didn't quite add up. While his gentle disposition was sincere, she could tell something was lurking. She sensed no immediate danger, but she never fully dropped her guard, especially after the previous night."
"So," she began casually. "you mentioned you're an earthbender."
Adesoji nodded, his mouth full of Komodo stew.
"Interesting," Azula continued. "I've never seen an earthbender move quite like you did when you... aided me. From my experience, most earthbenders have strong rigid motions while yours were far smoother. Almost as if you were bending the darkness itself."
Adesoji's chopsticks paused halfway to his mouth. He swallowed hard. "Oh, that? Just... a trick of the light, probably. The forest can play tricks on your eyes."
Azula's eyes narrowed slightly. "Right. Of course."
Adesoji quickly changed the subject. "How are you feeling, by the way? You've been through a lot since the night I found you."
Azula considered the question. Her body still ached, and the loss of her bending left an emptiness she couldn't quite describe. But she found herself answering, "Better, actually. Your... care has been unexpectedly helpful."
Adesoji's face lit up. "I'm glad to hear it. You know, you're welcome to stay as long as you need to recover."
Azula opened her mouth to deliver a cutting remark about not needing charity but stopped herself. Instead, she nodded. "Thank you. I... appreciate that."
As they finished their meal, Azula found relaxing slightly. The constant tension she carried began to ease if only a bit.
"I think I'll retire for the night," she spoke, standing up. "Thank you for the meal. It was... delicious."
Adesoji nodded, that gentle grin still on his face. "Sleep well, Azula. I'll be here or down the hall."
As she climbed the stairs to the modest room, she paused, peering back at Adesoji clearing the table. A strange feeling stirred in her chest - something unfamiliar and almost uncomfortable in its warmth.
Shaking her head, she continued to her room. As she lay in bed her mind whirled with memories of him moving and controlling darkness, hidden villages, and unexpected kindness. Despite her best efforts to maintain her guard, Azula found herself sinking into the surprisingly plush mattress. No battles. No intrusive thoughts. No Zuko. No Avatar.
For now, she had nothing to worry about as she curled up under the warm blanket.
As Azula drifted deeper into slumber, the peaceful darkness shifted. She found herself in a misty garden, the air heavy with the scent of fire lilies. Uncertain of where she was, she surveyed the pleasant scenery, unaware that something was forming behind her. A familiar figure materialized before her, one that left her trembling.
"Azula," Ursa greeted softly, her eyes filled with sickening compassion.
"Azula stiffened. "You're not real. You're never real."
Ursa stepped closer. "My daughter, it's time to let go. The control you cling to so desperately is causing more harm than you know."
"No," Azula hissed. "It's all I have left. It's what makes me strong."
"True strength comes from within," Ursa smiled patiently. "From acceptance and love."
Azula scoffed. "Love?! Love is nothing but weakness! You showed me that when you left like the coward you are. You were afraid of me, just like everyone else."
The woman's countenance saddened. "No. I've always loved you, Azula. I still do!"
"Liar!" she snapped, memories of past interactions breaking her composure down. "If you loved me, you wouldn't have abandoned me! You wouldn't have treated me like I was some rabid beast!"
"I never abandoned you in my heart," Ursa replied, her voice filled with quiet affection. "And I'm here now, asking you to open your heart. Let go of the pain, the anger. Embrace who you truly are."
Something in Ursa's tone, the unwavering patience, and love, broke through Azula's defenses. Unfortunately, instead of a liberating sense of joy, rage, and anguish welled up inside her.
"No! No! NO!" Azula screamed as the dream began to shatter around her, plunging the irate young woman back into the mortal realm.
She bolted upright in bed, her shriek echoing throughout the home. Tears streamed down her cheeks as sobs wracked her body, years of pent-up emotion pouring out uncontrollably.
The door burst open, and Adesoji rushed in, his eyes wide with worry. "Azula! What's wrong?"
"Get away from me!" she snarled, lashing out as he approached. Had she possessed her bending, he would've been burned to a crisp. "I don't need your pity!"
But he didn't retreat. Instead, he moved closer, his voice gentle but firm. "This isn't pity, Azula. I'm here to help."
"I don't need your help!" she cried, her protest growing weaker as the sobs intensified.
Adesoji sat on the edge of the bed and, despite her initial resistance, carefully pulled her into a comforting embrace. She could still do damage if she wanted to, but he was willing to take the chance. He thought she would do just that when he felt her stiffen in his arms. She wasn't used to physical comfort, but eventually, she gradually relaxed as he began to rock her gently.
"It's okay," he murmured. "You're safe here. You can let it out."
And let it out she did. Years of suppressed emotion poured forth as Azula cried into his shoulder. Only her muffled howls remained as they remained there. She felt weak, vulnerable... Her father taught her that these traits had no business in her life, yet, just as it was after her defeat at the hands of that water-tribe girl, this felt natural.
Adesoji held her firmly, a solid presence in the storm of her emotions.
As her lamentations eventually subsided into quiet sniffles, exhaustion took over. Azula's eyes grew heavy, her body relaxing further into his arms.
"Don't... don't leave," she mumbled, already half asleep.
"I won't," Adesoji promised softly. "I'm right here."
True to his word, Adesoji stayed, gently lowering her back onto the bed but keeping a comforting arm around her. As the right wore on, he remained vigilant, watching over the dozing princess. Like her, he was aware that there was more to her than met the eye ever since he found her in the forest. What could make her act like this?
His thoughts would keep him awake, pondering the source of her sudden outburst, unsure of whether he would feel better once he found the answer.
Sunlight eventually streamed through the window as Azula stirred. Her eyes fluttered open, and for a moment, she felt a wave of tranquility. Then, reality crashed in as she became aware of a drowsy Adesoji's presence beside her bed.
Azula bolted upright, her face flushing with a mix of embarrassment and anger. "What are you doing here?" she demanded.
Adesoji startled awake from his spot in the chair. "I... you asked me to stay, remember?"
"Ridiculous," Azula snapped, her voice dripping with a newfound venom. "I would never ask for such a thing. You must have imagined it."
Adesoji's brow furrowed. "Azula, you were practically inconsolable. You needed comfort so I rushed in and helped you until you fell asleep again. There's nothing wrong with that."
"Comfort?" Azula laughed coldly. "I am a princess of the Fire Nation. I don't need comfort, especially not from some forest-dwelling peasant."
Hurt flashed across his face, quickly shifting into bewilderment and then frustration. Normally, he could ward off the negative energy, but, perhaps due to his lack of adequate sleep, he was in no mood to fend off the turmoil boiling within him. "Is that necessary? After everything-"
"After what?" Azula interrupted, her eyes blazing with rebellion. "A moment of weakness? Don't fool yourself into thinking it means anything. You're nothing more than a convenience, a temporary shelter until I regain my strength."
As she forcefully expelled those words from her mouth, a pang of remorse shot through her. She couldn't help but wonder if she was trying to persuade him or reassure herself. Despite the uncertainty, her sense of pride prevented her from yielding at this moment.
Adesoji stood abruptly, his tolerance finally caving. "A convenience? Is that what you call someone who's cared for you, protected you, offered a home?"
"I never asked for any of this!" Azula roared.
"No, you didn't," he retorted, his voice rising. "But decent people help others without being asked. Though I'm starting to wonder if you even understand the concept of decency!"
"Don't pretend that you're better than me, filthy commoner!"
"I'm not, you spoiled brat!"
As his anger peaked, Adesoji's emerald eyes flickered with an intense violet hue. The shadows in the room appeared to deepen and writhe for a split second before he closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. The polite and calm persona she'd grown accustomed to had melted away, leaving a brazen attitude in its place.
Azula's tirade halted, her gaze enlarging at the unexpected exhibition. "What... what was that?"
Adesoji turned away, his shoulders tense. "Nothing. Forget it."
"No, I saw something," she insisted, her suspicion growing. "Your eyes... the shadows..."
"I said forget it," Adesoji snapped, striding towards the door. "I'm going for a walk. Try not to wreck the place with your charming personality while I'm gone. Or you can leave if that's what you want."
The heavy wooden door slammed shut with a resounding thud, engulfing Azula in an eerie silence that seemed to reverberate through the empty hallway.
She sat there, conflicting emotions warring inside her. Suspicion and curiosity about what she'd witnessed battle with that unfamiliar feeling of guilt once more. Adesoji's wounded expression flashed in her mind, along with thoughts of his kindness over the past few days.
Azula hugged her knees to her chest, an old defensive posture she hadn't used since her childhood. "It doesn't matter," she muttered to herself. "I don't need him. I don't need anyone."
But even as those words passed her lips, a part of her knew they weren't true. The guilt gnawed at her, along with a growing fear that she might have pushed away the one person who seemed to genuinely care about her well-being.
As the morning wore on and Adesoji didn't return, Azula found herself pacing the room, torn between her pride and an unknown urge to make amends. The mystery of what she'd seen only added to the inner turmoil, leaving the usually confident princess in a state of unsettling uncertainty. Soon, the sun made its rounds, leaving small traces of orange beams peaking into the homestead. By the time dusk set in, worry did as well.
Where could that drama queen be?
When she heard a knock at the door, Azula rushed down the stairs, ignoring the soreness in her legs as she skipped steps. Was it relief or some faux impression that would greet him? She struggled with that answer, but at least she would have the opportunity to discuss things.
"It's about time you returned," she barked, reaching for the door. "I was beginning to think you'd let me... starve?"
What she encountered was a striking scene she had not anticipated. Adesoji was indeed present, but he was not by himself. Displaying signs of weariness and emitting audible groans, his commanding figure was supported against the elderly woman she had previously crossed paths with in the village. Without pausing to second-guess herself, Azula graciously moved to the side, permitting the pair to pass through.
He was injured, unable to move under his own power. He would've looked peaceful to her had she not noticed the streams of blood dripping on the floor.
"Give me a hand, dear," she instructed. "Grab some rags from the kitchen and meet me in his room!"
"What's going on?"
"There'll be time for explanation later," the woman scolded, dragging the unconscious form of Adesoji upstairs. "Right now, this child needs some cool towels and water. Can you do that?"
"I... Yes!"
"Then don't dawdle..."
Azula nodded wordlessly, still processing the visual she just witnessed. Odd bruises and scars adorned his battered form; he looked like he'd gone into a warzone all by himself. Was this linked to their argument earlier? What could've caused such immense damage?
All she knew was that she'd been experiencing different sentiments that were both foreign and, sometimes, unwanted when it came to Adesoji. None of those feelings compared to what rested in her chest. It wasn't pity she felt; That was acquainted with that. No, this was something completely different.