Disclaimer: Doesn't belong to me.
Warning: Death.
Hope this drabble makes sense…
For Love
Drabble by SVA
Iroh sighed as he ran his finger across the handle. He did not like weapons, but this knife was exceptionally beautiful. A dragon and a phoenix were carved into the handle…the dragon painted gold, representing the Sun; while the phoenix was painted red, representing the Fire.
He drew his fingers away, noting that he was strangely calm, despite everything that had happened.
The Fire Nation had lost the war, as was expected. But the other Nations had not been so forgiving…they craved revenge. Now the Fire Nation was no nation at all. There were only a few hundred people left alive, mainly the old and the very young. And yet this new war raged on, the other nations threatening to completely annihilate what was left of a once grand Nation.
He walked down the hallway of the castle that was threatening to fall apart. He was returning from a secret meeting with the others. They had all reached the same silent conclusion.
The Avatar tried to help them, but he had failed. The nations would not listen. Well, the Water Tribes and the few remaining Air Nomads whom were found scattered around the world, were having second thoughts…but not the Earth Kingdom.
Iroh pitied the Firelord the most though. His nephew, who had struggled so much in life to finally get the throne, now ruled over a land of rubble and dirt.
The meeting had been short, very short, for the conclusion was unanimous. It was the only one that remained, a last desperate try.
Death was an acceptable part of life, since no one could stall or avoid it. The Fire Nation especially had always regarded it as sacred when there was a valid reason for it. Therefore, suicide was acceptable and honorable…as was the killing of another when there was nothing else left.
Iroh stopped when he reached his destination. Opening the door, he stood silently. Suddenly he wondered why he was so calm. But that thought quickly left him as he remembered what had to be done.
"Zuko?"
He beckoned his nephew.
The boy looked up from his meditation and stood. "Yes Uncle?" His eyes were glimmering amber orbs; reflecting the misery all of them felt.
Iroh hesitated before wrapping his arms around his nephew. "I am so sorry." He whispered.
Zuko blinked in surprise and opened his mouth to question his uncle, but a gasp escaped his lips instead. Pain flooded his mind and body, making him dizzy. He sank slowly to the floor.
Iroh sank with him, pulling out the knife and letting it drop beside him as he wrapped his arms tighter around his nephew, drawing him closer, cradling him.
The dim lighting of the candles was slowly being eaten away by darkness. The Spirits were beckoning him to join them, as he knew they would one day do so. He let out a sigh as he closed his eyes, answering their call.
Iroh felt tears slide down his cheek as he felt his nephew's spirit move on. He knew that his nephew's wasn't the only one to move on tonight. There was nothing left for them now…at least the children would not have to suffer anymore. At least his nephew would not have to suffer anymore.
This had been their conclusion…their decision. When the other Nations came to finish the job, at least the children would not have to suffer the pain and misery as they slowly died by foreign hands. Now, the children were safe…away from this cold, cruel world.
He let out a soft sigh, still cradling the body.
"Winter, Spring…Summer and Fall…Four seasons…for love…"
Shoot…that actually made me cry. Stupid drabble.
R&R please.