[ how does zuko explain anything? how would uncle describe this? he knows with an invitation to tea and possibly a sandwich or two. ]

[ his tone is softer, without its sharpness. everything about him, from his posture to how he seems to speak, is conversational and ready to be open. ] I can deflect it. My sister used to shoot fire at me all the time, and I'd be able to — [ zuko brings his arm down, like it's a blade. ] I'd just be able to stop it by doing that.

But I don't think I can use my boon twice in a month. [ there's a crash in the background; zuko doesn't flinch as miss maud makes a mockery of his suite in the castle. hiro will be able to hear a roar and a giggle in the background. ] The imps told me at dusk I'd be able to tap into it. It makes my fire as strong as it was during Sozin's Comet [ he pauses, opening his mouth, brows furrowing, as he remembers hiro isn't from his world. he doesn't know the comet enhances his bending just as the moon dulls it. ] — it, uh, amplifies firebending.