His room was shrouded in darkness. The only illumination was from the candles arranged in a semi-circle. Suddenly, yet not unexpectedly, a strong handed knock came at the door.
"Firelord, a message from the eastern air temple."
"It's about time," Zuko said without opening his eyes. "Get on with it."
"Notice from High General Shu: Talks are proceeding slowly. All parties are favoring the conditions of the Earth Kingdom. My appeals that our nation's resources will not allow our country to survive while baring the greatest cost of rebuilding the Earth Kingdom, seem to be ignored completely. The Avatar and the restored king Bumi seem to be the only people on this council that have the best interests of the world at the forefront of their mind. But, as the Avatar does not sit on any negotiating panels and stands as the council's only designated impartial witness, he has little power to help our cause. Your presence as a stabilizing force is needed with the greatest expediency." The lackey finished his reading. He was intimidated by the towering candle flames that had grown to nearly four hands during his recitation. "Ahh..alaa...," the lackey stammered.
"If you have any more business with me, make it quick," said the Firelord. Even though his manner was terse, the flames that danced from the candle wicks fell to normal size as he spoke. This helped the lackey to untie his tongue and continue.
"Firelord Zuko, you need to get here, now. And bring your uncle. He knows more about diplomacy than I do, we could use his experience. With trust always Avatar Aang." The lackey cleared his throat, rolled up the scroll and opened another. "Zuko, The other nations are not going to back down. They want to end the fire nation. I cant even sway the southern tribe, and we have the smallest delegation in this sitting. We need you and Iroh. Katara and Toph give their best. Faithfully yours, Sokka."
"It is nearly time to change my Uncle's dressings," Zuko said, without expression. "Bring him his tea and let him know I will be calling on him this evening. Call my scribe and bring my fastest messenger eagle-hawk. Light the lamps here and bring me my tea, then take your leave,"
As his lackey was lighting the lamps the Firelord added, "Also, call on Mai, ask her to join me for dinner."
"Yes my lord," the lackey replied.