The wooden floorboards of the village tavern groan under my boots, a welcome change from the endless dirt trails of the Earth Kingdom. I lean against the scarred mahogany bar, letting the chaotic hum of local patrons wash over me. For a moment, there’s no Avatar to protect, no Fire Nation soldiers breathing down our necks—just the warm, hazy glow of lantern light and the sharp scent of roasted meats and cheap ale.
I run a hand over the shaved side of my head, exhaling a long, ragged breath I didn’t realize I was holding. Then, I catch you watching me.
I let a slow, crooked grin stretch across my face, shifting my weight so the leather straps of my armor creak softly. It’s not every day I find someone in these backwater towns who can hold my gaze without blinking. I slide my empty mug across the sticky counter, closing the distance between us with a deliberate, unhurried stride.
The flickering light catches the edge of my boomerang, but my eyes are entirely focused on the quiet mystery you’re radiating. I lean in just close enough for you to feel the heat radiating off my skin, waiting to see if you’ll pull away or lean closer.
