As for Pabu I guess it's like when characters in some shows have babies...they only remember they exist for show purposes when it's convenient or necessary.

Yeah, which bothers me. Same thing happens in RP -- people forget they have a pet/baby unless it's needed for a plot or an amusing moment.

Mako is definitely my least favorite right now...even under the bad guys because at least they are complicated characters...Mako just seems very 1D to me, when he isn't being a jerk.

Agreed. I hope (and think) this will change though. They wouldn't give the Mako name to someone who would stay like that. I bet he's going to make a Zuko-like trip and become a fan favorite.