( hearing that is... weird. but also gratifying in a way he wasn't expecting it to be. something just sort of stutters in his chest, and mako looks down at his hands. worn, calloused, knuckles slightly misshapen from all the times they've been broken when he and bo couldn't afford a waterbender's services. even though zuko's a kid, younger than he was when he faced down amon, he still grows into someone mako deeply admires and respects. and zuko thinks he moves like a firebender.

mako's never needed validation, he inured himself against its effects a long time ago. but it's still... nice. to hear. he smiles a bit, crooked but soft. he wants to say thank you, but. that's a little too heavy for a first conversation. instead: )

I wouldn't say it's useless. I mean... fire and airbenders are kind of spoiled by the ease of the element. Waterbending requires a lot more strategy and foresight.