Working Title: The Cracked Flame
Author: Kalli, Zuta, Z, or BD
Based off of Avatar: The Last Airbender storyline. Story commences after the end of series.
CHAPTER 1
Part 1:
"That's not acceptable," a familiar voice aired coldly while continuing to pace the same spot over and over again.
"I'm sorry, My Lord," a man in uniform spoke apologetically while bowing down with respect. He did not dare look up at the one he addressed. The room was large and the voices echoed off the walls, returning harshly to their ears.
"Just go and alert the other guards," he said, making a hand gesture that would release the guard. Once he heard the door close soundly, he crumbled under the invisible pressure into his decorated chair that sat center stage. Ramming his elbow onto the armrest, he allowed his fingers to press lightly against his temples. A deep frown showed signs of where wrinkles would rest in the future. The fire that used to separate the room no longer held a flame. His dark outfit was no fashion statement but worn because it was easy to move in. He wore a cape that was maroon with an emblem on the back that couldn't be seen since it was pressed against the chair.
His thoughts were bombarded with the news he had just received. Since the breakout that commenced over a year ago, no one had been able to even imagine the possibility of another breaking out; especially on their own. It would seem that some would still bear a grudge against him reigning after his Father's very different disposition on how to run their Nation. A single drop of sweat found its way down the side of his scarred face and he brushed it away before it could reach his chin.
The escapee would be a difficult and dangerous one to have out and running rampant. The thought of her coming back into power sent a shiver up and down his spine. The countries were just starting to rebuild. The economies of all parties were trampled to say the least. The homes that needed building, the food needed to be provided for the many homeless and the debts that the Nation would incur after rebuilding the town were insurmountable. The poverty level had risen since the end of the war. More people were out of jobs, since large armies were no longer necessary and to pay workers on the jobs of rebuilding these homes and to replenish the economy was coming directly from the Fire Lords personal treasury.
Unfortunately, even this was dwindling. The accountant to the Fire Lord was making regular trips and he knew he would need to call on another Nation for help. Things were becoming difficult and as if he needed the icing on the cake, this breakout meant that he would be forced to inform the other Nations of this new predicament.
"Azula…" It was the name that rested on his lips even after speaking it and it vibrated off the walls resounding a few times before dying. "It only took you a year, huh?"
He stood, knowing and regretting what action he would have to perform next. He headed towards his study. Before exiting the large meeting hall, his eyes flashed a serious look as they rose to look straight ahead. While walking, he spoke again, opening the door to the hall, "I should expect nothing less from you, Sister…"