You know, it's funny that you say this, because I had the same thought when I was originally watching ATLA. I mean, most people probably wanted more Azula, but I had the distinct sense that I really wanted more of the Royal Family, and the conflicts that spring within it. I didn't see the cartoon until after I learned some spoilers on the internet, and I knew going in that there was a feuding Prince and Princess siblings pair, betrayals between generations, missing moms, assassinations, and so on. I went in expecting some kind of Game of Thrones-esque subplot, and while I can't really fault the story that was told, I do miss that conception I had of a much more active and present royal family.
I'm very pleased to hear that your thoughts match mine regarding The Search and Ursa. So many people seemed either approving or indifferent, and I had to sort my thoughts out to make sure my sense of not getting the answers I needed wasn't just bad expectations. It all came down to Ursa's character, which led to a long post on a discussion forum that was adapted to this essay. While I do like hearing that this essay convinced people of the flaws in the comic, it's also reassuring to hear that people had the same reaction as me even before reading this.
Also, I'm glad you're enjoying Retroactive! It's as much a meditation on the various fanfiction takes on Azula as it is my chance to really explore her character on my own, and the response amongst fans of the characters has been very gratifying, that we all seem to enjoy the same core even as different elements appeal in different ways. I hope the finish of the story is satisfying for you!
I imagine Azula had a number of teachers...not just for firebending (red flame, blue flame, lightning)...but also for everything else.
I mean, her dad spent the eclipse sitting in a room and waiting for it to end. ...Azula didn't rely solely on the Dai Li to protect her - she demonstrated a level of athleticism third only to Ty Lee and maybe Suki.
(aside from clinging to tree roots and being the Blue Spirit, I don't recall Zuko demonstrating he was paying attention during those lessons, if he was even attending them)
I'm very pleased to hear that your thoughts match mine regarding The Search and Ursa. So many people seemed either approving or indifferent, and I had to sort my thoughts out to make sure my sense of not getting the answers I needed wasn't just bad expectations. It all came down to Ursa's character, which led to a long post on a discussion forum that was adapted to this essay. While I do like hearing that this essay convinced people of the flaws in the comic, it's also reassuring to hear that people had the same reaction as me even before reading this.
Also, I'm glad you're enjoying Retroactive! It's as much a meditation on the various fanfiction takes on Azula as it is my chance to really explore her character on my own, and the response amongst fans of the characters has been very gratifying, that we all seem to enjoy the same core even as different elements appeal in different ways. I hope the finish of the story is satisfying for you!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
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I imagine Azula had a number of teachers...not just for firebending (red flame, blue flame, lightning)...but also for everything else.
I mean, her dad spent the eclipse sitting in a room and waiting for it to end.
...Azula didn't rely solely on the Dai Li to protect her - she demonstrated a level of athleticism third only to Ty Lee and maybe Suki.
(aside from clinging to tree roots and being the Blue Spirit, I don't recall Zuko demonstrating he was paying attention during those lessons, if he was even attending them)
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