By Chi-Haku Watch. Zuko sat quietly in his room, no light on save a candle burning brightly on his desk, where he sat. His eyes fixed on nothing but darkness, mind replaying his conversation from earlier in the day, when there was still light outside. There were papers strewn about his desk, some haphazardly shuffled into piles, others, not even bothered with. The rest of his room was neat though, all things folded and shelved and tucked away. Zuko tapped his forefinger to his bottom lip, humming contemplatively as he stared blankly at his wall. His over robes were thrown over the back of his chair, leaving him in just his tunic and breeches, boots kicked off when he entered the room.

When Katara and Zuko battle at the Spirit Oasis, he discovers she's a much stronger bender now. Unlike Master Pakku who takes lots of convincing, Zuko immediately acknowledges Katara's capabilities and treats her like a worthy opponent. At this point, there's no real reason to help Zuko or Iroh.

It is sole property of Nickelodeon, and of Mike and Brian. Spoilers: Up to book three of the series. The prompt was sparring.