Kashi took a deep breath, then punched with a perfect stance, shooting a fireball. Then an other. And again. As he struck, his fists gained speed. Again and again. The fireballs were growing larger and larger, until Kashi punched one last time with a loud and short yell, releasing a whole wave of fire that enlighted everything in front of him. A slow clap resounded next to him and he smiled.

"Very well excuted, my son. You are really improving each time I see you practice !"

Kashi bowed :

"Thanks, father !"

The two of them exchanged a little smile, and then started walking together along the alley of the garden. Kashi had always liked it. It was peaceful, full of live and promises of a bright future. So many happy memories were bound to this place. He couldn't name them all but they were always there within his heart. It seemed as if nothing could have spoiled it, as if no harm could happen to him as long as he was standing there with his father. Of course, he knew about war. After all, he was the son of a Fire Nation general. He had been trained to the arts of combat firebending and not only the artistic forms. His father also taught him almost everything he knew about history and military strategies. Kashi knew by heart the tale of the Avatar Aang and how he brought peace to a world in pain. How he spared the life of the very person that was responsible for all the bad things that happened during the war. Many lessons he had learned were inspired by the Avatar's philosphy. But he also learned about the courage of Saka of the watertribe and knew all about his strategies for surely the world would still be at war without him.

But war was far away now. There had been no war for a long time and everybody seemed to be wanting things to stay that way. Even his father as a general only acted when peace was threatened. Firelord Zuko was a good leader and full of respect and wisdom. His reign was full of promises. Surely one day he could unite the four nations and bring peace even further. And Kashi secretely hoped that on this day, he would be a general too and that he would be a part of it.

"What is on your mind, Kashi ?" his father asked.

"Nothing..." he answered with a smile. "And everything at once."

"I know exactly what you mean. You should rest a bit, son. It is growing dark and you had a busy day. Don't forget : tomorrow I am taking you with me to the palace !"

"How could I forget ? Good night, father ! I'll see you tomorrow."

Kashi bowed and walked away. He didn't have to turn around to know that his father was smiling at him. They rarely hugged and some of the old traditions of respect were still standing between them, but he knew his father loved him really much. As did he.