"You have come to the crossroads of your destiny. It is time for you to choose."
The words played themselves within Zuko's mind, haunting him, mocking him. There was no turning back from the choice he had made. His sister's praise seemed hollow and meaningless now. His uncle was rotting in a dungeon somewhere and the only thing he had left was the promise his sister had made to him. A promise he had no idea if she would keep.
"Azula always lies. Azula always lies."
No, Zuko told himself silently. This time would be different. This time his father would restore his rightful place on the throne and he would finally fulfill his destiny. But even as he told himself so, another voice spoke at the back of his mind. A voice filled with desperation and pain; a voice that he recognized as his uncle's.
"I care about you! And if Ozai wants you back… well, I think it may not be for the reasons you imagine."
"Zuko?" came the quiet, fierce voice of his sister, breaking into his thoughts. Zuko's eyes closed for a moment, his mind and body wearier than ever before.
"Yes?" he replied, his voice low and hoarse.
"We're almost ready to leave. Are you ready to go home?"
Zuko was silent for several long moments. He wasn't sure he knew what that meant anymore. Home. He sighed heavily. His die was cast and he could not afford the luxury of doubt. Whatever lay in front of him, he had to face it. Slowly, he nodded.
"Yes, I am. Let's go."