PTG: Because even our dear Zhao needs love. Pre-scar, I think you can figure out the time period.
"It's a pity your brother is such a fool."
Sanako twisted around in her seat, though she recognized the voice. "Zhao, how good to see you here. Or perhaps I should refer to you as 'Captain'?"
"Please, Sanako." Zhao's hand gestured at the box reserved for high-ranks and officers. The commoners' seats were filling up, but as of yet no one was in earshot. "Here, at least, you can speak freely."
"Not for long." Sanako turned back around and eyed an officer climbing the stairs toward them. He passed and sat in a higher seat, ignoring them completely. "And Zhao?"
"Yes?"
"Since when have I ever spoken freely?"
Zhao didn't respond, only lounged back in his seat.
"Other than that. Really now," Sanako turned halfway around in her seat, making sure no one was watching. "You need to expect it. Considering my father, I'd know how to guard my words."
"A pity your little brother hasn't learned the same." Sanako gave a delicate sneer, and Zhao paused to admire the gesture. "He really outdid himself this time, didn't he?"
"Yes. He did." Sanako looked around again, then spat a small piece of fire. "Impulsive little fool."
"He doesn't know who he's fighting yet, though, does he?"
Sanako shared Zhao's grin. "No. No he doesn't." She mused. "Perhaps he'll die."
Zhao laughed. "You sound eager." He sat forward, and Sanako looked around again, then leaned over the chair's back. "Don't tell me you have reason to feel that way," Zhao continued. "Or perhaps it's just your normal bloody-mindedness."
"Some of both." Another officer passed on the stairs and she lowered her voice. "Zuko dies, Ozai has no more male heirs. I'm all that's left. My father's getting old, and his temper doesn't help."
"It doesn't," Zhao averred. He glanced over Sanako's shoulder. "The general," he warned, and made to sit back, but Sanako grabbed his sleeve and he paused.
"You," she said. "Do your part. Show your ambition, do what you have to, only don't assume you're the only officer Ozai's watching. Distinguish yourself in his eyes, do you hear me? Make him watch you." From anyone else, Zhao would've resented taking orders. He nodded.
"Rise high enough and you might share my throne someday." She turned around, and glared at Iroh as he neared, and only barely contained a grin at Zhao's reply.
"I'd like that."