"If you had the chance to go back and change anything, would you?"
She stared me down, aware that this one question had the power to undo everything we've ever done to each other. It could unwind our rocky past and solidify our shaky future.
"No," I replied.
"Nothing?" she asked in disbelief. "Not even challenging you father?"
"I wouldn't be the same if I didn't. I wouldn't have realized the problems in my own home, and the repercussions of the war on innocents."
She smiled at that. "Do you think, maybe, since you know the reality of these problems and are disgusted by your father's behavior, you could work with us now?"
I was stunned into silence. For so long, all I've ever wanted was my father's love and acceptance, and being given this choice could change all of that. But why do I still want the praise of such a tyrant?
Before I can answer, the whole room starts to quake, and one of the walls collapses. Out of it come Uncle and the Avatar.
The boy sprints, embracing her tightly, but gives me a glare that could melt ice.
Next thing I know, Uncle has wrapped his arms around me, and I return the favor.
"I was so worried," he said, voice choking on the words. "I'm so glad you are okay, nephew."
"Thanks," I manage to whisper.
She and the Avatar soon walk out to face my sister and her goons. She looks back once, pleading with her eyes. I can't keep her gaze.
Uncle notices. "It is time for you to make a choice. You must choose good over evil, no matter how difficult it may seem. Your past holds no sway over your future and the man I know you can be. It is time to fix the wrongs you have done and forget about your father. It is a rather lamentable fact that few can call upon courage with the expediency they can fear, but I know you, Zuko. You are brave and powerful. You can change your life right now! You can make the right decision and summon your courage!"
He doesn't know me. She doesn't know me. I'm too far deep to call upon that amount of courage.