Maybe a plot where Mai is kidnapped by enemies of the Fire Nation who want to use her to get to Zuko. Zuko then embarks on a dangerous rescue mission. Along the way, he realizes just how much Mai means to him. Or a story where Zuko and Mai are forced into an arranged marriage by Fire Nation politics. At first, they resist, but as they spend more time together, they start to develop real feelings for each other that go beyond the political arrangement.
Well, the theme of family also often comes up. Zuko's family situation is complicated, and Mai is also affected by her family's expectations. Fanfics may explore how their relationship is influenced by their families. For example, how Zuko's relationship with his father affects his relationship with Mai. Also, the theme of growth is common. Both Zuko and Mai grow as characters in fanfics, learning more about themselves and each other.
Zuko can be developed by exploring his role as a leader within the context of his marriage. He may struggle to balance his duties as Fire Lord with his time for Mai. This internal conflict can show his character's depth. He could also develop new bending techniques influenced by his love for Mai. As for Mai, she can develop by getting involved in more political matters, standing by Zuko's side and using her intelligence to influence decisions. She could also start to make more friends in the palace, which would change her somewhat solitary nature.
Zuko's personality could be shown as more tender and caring than ever. He might be constantly worried about Mai's well - being and that of the baby. His sense of responsibility would be heightened. Mai, on the other hand, while still maintaining her dry sense of humor, would show a more vulnerable side. She may not be as openly emotional as Zuko but her actions, like making sure the nursery is safe, would show her love and care for the unborn child.
To write Zuko accurately, remember his journey of redemption. He was once angry and lost, but he grew into a more understanding and empathetic person. Show his internal struggle between his old self and the new one. For Mai, depict her as a rather stoic person on the outside but with deep emotions. She's not one to show her feelings easily. For example, when writing a scene where Zuko and Mai interact, Zuko might be more open with his emotions compared to Mai, who would express herself in a more subtle way.
Well, 'Zuko and Mai: A New Beginning' is a really good fanfic. It starts right after the end of the series and shows Zuko and Mai trying to rebuild their relationship. It has some really sweet moments between them. There are also fanfics that explore what would have happened if Mai had been more involved in Zuko's journey earlier, like 'Early Encounters: Zuko and Mai', which is an interesting take on their relationship.
One great 'Avatar Zuko Fanfic' is 'The Phoenix and the Dragon'. It delves deep into Zuko's journey of self - discovery after the end of the war. The story shows his struggles with his new role as Fire Lord and how he deals with the remnants of his past traumas. It also has some really interesting interactions with the other characters from the Avatar universe, like Aang and Katara, who help him along the way.
Mai could be jealous of Zuko in fanfiction if there are rumors about Zuko and another character. Just like in real life, rumors can spread like wildfire in fictional worlds too. If there are whispers in the Fire Nation palace about Zuko having a special connection with someone else, Mai would not take it lightly. Her jealous side would emerge as she tries to find out the truth and put an end to these rumors.
One possible scenario in such a fanfiction could be that Zuko is getting a lot of attention from other characters. Maybe he's being praised for his leadership skills or his newfound wisdom. Mai, being his girlfriend, might start to feel left out and jealous. For example, if Zuko is constantly in the company of a female character who admires him greatly, Mai could see this as a threat to their relationship. She might then start to act cold towards Zuko or become overly possessive to assert her claim on him.