Burning Son
Disclaimer: I own nothing in the world of Avatar. If I did Makorra would not exist.
Episode 1: Agni Kai I - "Too stupid for my own good."
It was a little past noon in the Fire Nation.
The sun was high in the sky, shining in a radiant golden light. Heat poured off burning sphere in immense waves, making it one of the hottest days in a country where one could cook eggs on the pavement and that be a regular occurrence. "If I didn't know any better, I would think that Agni himself was among us" is what many would say on this day.
But today was special. Today the air was filled with whispers of the Agni Kai that would be taking place on this scorching day.
The Agni Kai between the crown prince of the Fire Nation, Prince Zuko, and the leader of their great, and powerful nation. A man considered not only the strongest Firebender in the world, surpassing both Grand Masters Iroh, the famed (or disgraced, depending on one's perspective) Lóng de Xī and Admiral Jeong Jeong, the Liúchàng Lóng, but also the strongest man in the world. The young Prince Zuko, would be facing off against his father, Fire Lord Ozai.
Perhaps, the great Sun God was present after all. Here to watch two children of the great dragon himself, those who have inherited his great flames, pit themselves against each other. To witness the fire of two of his own blood burn bright in fierce competition; something that has been of rare occurrence since the reign of Fire Lord Sozin.
Yes, for the 2nd time during the establishment of their country that both the Fire Lord and his own child were facing each other in such a duel. There have been times when siblings, or cousins, would duel each other, usually for either the right to the throne of the Fire Nation or for a woman. Though, in this situation, neither of those cases applied as Ozai was still a young Fire Lord, and as handsome as he was, he could easily have any woman he wanted. So to those who weren't too close to the daily goings that took place on the royal castle grounds, they would be confused as to why the father would face his own son in such a barbaric tradition. However to those few who regularly dealt with their Fire Lord, they had expected such a result. Ozai, while charismatic and caring leader, was a very prideful and strict man, so any sort of disrespect or blow dealt to honor, even those some would consider minor, would result in consequences of varying degrees for whoever he felt was responsible.
On occasion, those consequences can prove fatal for whoever was foolish enough to cross this extremely dangerous man. The only difference now, being that Ozai's most recent victim just happened to be his own son. Regardless though, the same amount of mercy would be given.
None.
Maybe even less then that given how the Fire Lord felt about his son….
Said Agni Kai was already underway. Those who that attended the match were mostly Fire Nation nobles or military men of high rank. There were some low rank soldiers and middle to upper-middle civilians that somehow managed to get into this somewhat exclusive event sprinkled in throughout the crowd. They were in the back of course, to bring less attention to themselves. It was always from these few, those lucky enough to find themselves at such events, that rumors of what took place in the world of the upper crust of their society would emerge from.
Amongst those most well known amongst the crowd were ex-General Iroh, older brother of the Fire Lord, and the Fire Lord's youngest child, Princess Azula. Iroh was once a fierce general, known for both his supremacy in the art of Firebending and his many successful campaigns in the name of the Fire Nation. However the loss of his only son, Lu Ten, during his famous, yet failed, 600 day siege of Ba Sing Se had not only stripped him of his birthright, the throne, but also the fire that burned deep within himself. He is now, what some of his colleagues would say, "a shell of his former self" and has resigned from his post.
The Lóng de Xī was tense and his face wrought with worry as he watched the beating his younger brother gave to his nephew. He had advised Zuko not to fight Ozai; basically to surrender before the fight ever started in order to avoid any prolonged combat with the powerful man. Zuko, however, had vehemently refused to do that; even going to the length of reminding the old dragon of his past failures. He made it clear that he saw this as his chance to prove himself to his father. "I'm NOT some weak child, as to beg for the mercy of a light burning! I prove to my father that I am indeed worthy of being his son and deserving of his respect. I won't just give up! I'm not you!"is what his nephew said to him in response. Zuko would no longer speak to him on the matter. It pained him now, that he could do nothing but watch as Zuko tried, futilely, to push his father back with his attacks only for him to be easily knocked aside.
Iroh's face twisted into a grimace after a rather vicious uppercut to Zuko right cheek, one that sent the boy flying 5-6ft away from his opponent. Ozai's face was completely neutral as he beat his son back. While he face showed no signs of emotion, his eyes showed his true feelings.
Anger.
Contempt.
Impatience.
Disappointment.
What is it that you are trying to prove Ozai, Iroh thought as he watched the fight, as if he could even call it that.Your supremacy is undeniable, so why prolong this? Why make your own son suffer so?Iroh's frown deepened as Zuko took a strong punch to the gut and heel to the left side of his face.
The boy had yet to even make Ozai move from the spot he stood from; the same spot he'd been standing at since the match started. In his arrogance, his brother asked only for Zuko to land a successful hit to his face. He even stated that he would not move one step from his starting position, willingly handicapping himself to give the boy a chance it would seem. Yes, it would seem that way to anybody who didn't know the man, but to Iroh he knew that Ozai was openly shaming Zuko.
Proclaiming to all of those in attendance, that his son was pathetic and weak.
Zuko, however, wasn't doing too good of a job disproving his father. He was too rash and straight forward with his attacks, basically projecting all his attacks and leaving himself open to counter attacks.
Far too open.
Zuko,Iroh thought, you are far too talented to be performing such sloppy attacks. The pressure of the moment must be too much for him.It was true, Zuko was better than what he was displaying for all to see. While he lacked a lot of the talent in firebending that most of their family had in spades, the boy compensated for that with his great aptitude in martial arts, his freakish-like athleticism and strength, as well as his ability to adapt to the situation. The problem right now, however, was that Zuko's mind was too jumbled up and he wasn't thinking clearly, causing him to make several mistakes in his attacks.
Frankly it was hard to watch, but apparently not everyone thought that way…
"Oh Zuzu, you're so hopeless."
Standing to his left and a foot in front of him, resting her elbows on the metal barricade separating the spectators from the arena field was his niece Princess Azula. The little 11-year-old girl snickered softly as she watched her brother take that nasty heel to the face. She then rested her hands looking fairly relaxed, to the point that you'd think she was watching a beautiful sunset rather than her father beating the shit out of her older brother. "You always were so sensitive to what others thought of you. You're so nervous that you can barely even throw a simple punch correctly. But it's to be expected of a dum-dum like you." She chuckled to herself as she watched Zuko pick himself back up. "So hopeless."
Iroh looked down her and frowned in disapproval. "So, you find amusement in this Azula?"
His niece in question, turned to face him, and made no move to hide the mild annoyance shown in her eyes, before rolling them, in a another showing of disrespect. However, Iroh wasn't fazed by this as it was a daily occurrence since he returned from his failed campaign; he'd gotten used to her snide remarks and dismissive glances. Her face briefly held a thoughtful expression, and Iroh mused that little girl was probablytrying to remember why she decided to take a spot next to this "tea loving fool" again, as she liked to refer him as from time to time. Azula's expression then twisted into a condescending one, before speaking. "Why, of course Uncle." There was an undertone of laughter as she said "Uncle", that Iroh was still surprised a girl her age could have. "Anytime I get to witness the shortcomings of that idiot brother of mine, as he then withers under the gaze of our father, is time well spent I'd say." she responded, again, in far too mature manner of speech for a girl her age.
"Really?" Iroh responded. "Even if the failure is truly yours?" As he continued, he noticed that Azula's face darkened as her face that held an amused expression moments ago, now wore a deep scowl.
At her silence, he continued in a low, but harsh whisper, "It should be you, not your brother, facing this punishment."
Azula's scowl deepened even more so as she glared at the stone floor at her feet, wiping it off her face and staring at the ring expressionless. "Shut it, old man." His niece bit out in anger. Normally she did not allow herself to be riled up, at least not in the open, but right now, it seems that his lecturing about this subject was getting under her skin at the moment.
"Do you not care that Zuko is going through this hell for your sake?" Pressed Iroh, as he questioned her accusingly.
Though she tried to ignore him, he could see in her eyes that Azula was warring with herself within the depths of her mind. Iroh was purposely trying to make her feel guilt; to make her feel some sort of responsibility for the mess that in which Zuko now found himself.
It was working, but he could also tell that she was furious at him for doing so and at herself for allowing her mask of control to slip. He watched as he then turned her glare, he could also tell that she was mad at her brother as well for making her feel like this. Despite the façade she keeps up to impress her father, Iroh has known for a long time she did indeed care about her elder brother. Whenever he was on military leave and could spend time with his family, he always spent a lot of his time watching the children of their family. He watched as Zuko would get into shenanigans with his cousins Shūchàng and Dài, how a 5 year old Azula would hide out of sight as she watched an 8 year old Zuko and 12 year old Lu Ten spar, and Zuko and Azula acted around each other. Regardless of his jealousy towards her, Zuko was always there to cheer her up when she failed at a task (even it be grudgingly or if he was insulted in response, and an argument resulted afterwards) or to protect her (as that had been the case on some of the camping trips they would take when they were younger). Of course she cared for Zuko's well-being, but it was in that that lay the problem.
She still cared for that "failure" of a brother of hers.
Her father had beaten it into her both figuratively, though countless lectures, and sometimes literally, during the rare times they sparred. Iroh remembers a moment, years ago, when happened to hear his younger brother lecture his children: "In order to be truly strong, and make an impact on this world, you must be willing separate from yourself from your emotions; as such things can be both distracting and detrimental to one's goal."He remembers Zuko speak up and ask "How father?" and his father responded. "While some like courage and determination can aid you, others feelings such as love, fear and sadness, should not exist in the mind of those who hold the power to change. Love, while pleasant at times, can blind one from their true path through attachments driven purely by emotion, fear shackles you and sadness fills one's mind with doubt causing potential to be held back. They should be locked away deep in the back of your mind, as to not cloud your judgment."Ozai paused for a bit before continuing. "However, those very same emotions can be used to control or corner those who oppose you and even those who are aligned and essential to you."The lecture continued, but Iroh had decided to leave; no longer wishing to listen to what he didn't agree with.
Trying her best to both impress and emulate her father, Azula has been trying to follow her father's teachings by forgetting that Zuko was her loving big brother, but a failure. Zuko was a "fool". Zuko was a "disgrace" to their family, just like that "stupid uncle" of theirs. Putting aside his thoughts, Iroh noticed that Azula managed to regain control of raging emotions, and let her mask of cool calmness cover her face once again. The little girl then smirked before turning to answer her uncle's previously unanswered question; her voice calm and smooth.
"Of course I care." Azula started. "I care about what people will start to think about our family, after seeing this pitiful display.
"I mean first you fail your country by returning here after having surrendered to Ba Sing Se, losing the will to fight after the untimely death of your son." At the mention of his late son's untimely death and the failed siege that soon followed, Iroh had to turn away, though he could feel Azula's cruel smirk widen and practically hear the Pathetic old man that ran through her head.
"Then our previous ruler, my grandfather and namesake, Fire Lord Azulon is poisoned by that traitorous whore Ursa." At this, Iroh turned back in his niece's direction; his eyes wide in shock. He knew that Azula wasn't very fond of her mother, and yes, the crime was gravely high, but to hear such a young girl speak of herown mother in such a manner and with that level of loathing her voice was….quite disturbing to say the least. Especially considering that circumstances regarding that incident were still quite hazy, even now with it being four years past. Not to mention the flicker of utter hatred that danced across her eyes for a split second; the smirk still present on her lips.
"Now the people of this great country are witness to the pathetic pile of incompetence that is Prince Zuko, first born son and heir to the throne." Azula paused and made a gesture back to the fight. Iroh looked as well only to see that Zuko was again attacking their father with another series of rather sloppy punches and kicks, which were easily slapped aside or dodged with a bored expression from the Fire Lord. Iroh mentally, dropped his head and sighed in exasperation.
He returned his gaze to Azula in time to see her roll her eyes with a dark chuckle, before turning back to her uncle.
"You expect me to feel sorry for that? Ha! He being in this situation is of his own doing. If he didn't want to suffer the way he is right now, then he should've kept to his own business. Instead, he allowed his emotions to get in the way and now what's he got to show for it? Nothing." Azula now stood looking at her uncle with an air of cruel, smugness about her.
Iroh observed his niece carefully before speaking, in soft tone. "Your brother loves you deeply and simply seeks to protect you the best he can." Iroh looked Azula directly in the eyes. Soft, weary gold meeting sharp, condescending gold. "Is that really so wrong? Can you truly feel that way about your brother?"
Azula met his glaze without batting an eyelash. "Of course." She started. "He's pathetic. He's trash. He's weak." Despite her outward calm, he could see in her eyes that Azula didn't really believe what she was saying; at least when it pertained to Zuko.
However, Azula didn't hesitate this time.
"He deserves everything he gets."
Iroh's brows furrowed in anger, and he moved to say something when a roar of anger startled him, Azula, and the rest of the audience out of their own thoughts. They turned their full attentions to the arena, just in time to see a massive wave of golden flames erupt from the middle of the ring. An explosion followed soon after, and with a "CRACK!" Zuko was sent flying back. The prince bounced off the stone floor 3 times before finally rolling to a stop about a foot away from the edge of the ring. Iroh leaned over the railing, his face once again wrought with worry, starring intensely at his nephew, while simply Azula froze in shock and stared wide-eyed at the prone body of Zuko.
Iroh noticed a skinny man in all orange, that he suddenly remembered to be the referee, shakily approached prince. He then turned to his lord and tried to end the match, but stopped when the Fire Lord shot a blast of fire at his feet. He was fairly certain that the cowardly man had soiled himself. Then, he heard the voice of his brother. It was low, and soaked in contempt for his son.
"Get up, Boy."
Zuko, as if he was a slave following the orders of his master, slowly pulled his aching body up to standing position. His body was riddled with burns and bruises. The boy was clutching his right side, which happened to be severely bruised and bright red, and purple, on his naturally pale skin. Likely bruised or cracked ribs, thought Iroh grimly. Zuko also sported a rather nasty split lip, swollen right cheek and black right eye with a large gash over it as well.
Zuko was an ugly sight.
…
Silence filled the air, as the crowd simply watched the scene transpire in front of them in anticipation. Or dread, depending who was in question.
…
The Fire Lord looked his son up and down, before spitting out like poison.
"Disappointing."
Ugh…What happened?
That was echoed through Zuko's head as he groggily regained consciousness. I remember rushing at my father….him easily blocking all of my attacks…again…ugh…then there was a flash…and here I am…a crumpled mess on the floor.
Zuko's ears were still ringing, but he managed to hear low and soft sounds that reminded him of footsteps approaching. Probably the referee checking me over,Zuko peered through blurry vision to see the skinny man begin to raise his right arm; as if to declare the Agni Kai concluded.
Panic began to settle in his mind at the prospect of this match ending before he could register not even one clean hit. Not yet!,Zuko screamed in his head. He opened his mouth to say so himself to the referee, when a large blast of golden flames was shot towards the feet of the thin man causing him to franticly retreat to his original position outside the ring.
Zuko looked towards his father, knowing that those golden colored flames could only have come from him. He was his mouth moving. His father was addressing him, but the ringing in his ears had yet to stop. However he could make out the last word that came from his father's mouth.
"Boy."
For as long as he could remember, his father very rarely ever called him by his name. It was as if his father didn't believe he was even worth addressing properly. Like he didn't deserve to be called by his birth name. Along with proving his worth, Zuko also wanted for his father to call him by his given name; however, not with the same barely contained contempt or disappointment. To say his name with pride, as if he cared.
Just like mother.
Zuko then decided to get up, and slowly, but grudging, his battered body complied. He grit his teeth as he felt the painful throb on his right side. As he pulled himself together he started thinking again.
He always wanted to prove himself to his father, but not necessarily like this. An Agni Kai with arguably the strongest man in the world, besides the Avatar, was roughly along the same lines as committing suicide.
How did I get myself in this hopeless situation, again?
4 Days Before the Agni Kai.
It was Zuko's birthday.
He had turned 14 today.
However, like any other day, he started it off like always did.
Zuko woke up with the sun, just as any Firebender would. However, as fate would have it, he wasn't too much of a Firebender.
He would wash up and then, shamefully, let the servants help him dress for the day. It was annoying, frustrating and embarrassing, or at least he thought so. "I could dress my own damn self!" Zuko wanted to say at times…but if he did that then for what reason would my family be paying them? If there was no use for them, then there's no reason for them to be here, living in the castle, is there?
It still surprises Zuko that he was still living in this castle.
Anyway, after that Zuko would go to his Firebending lessons. He had long since stopped attending the same lessons as his sister. She was a superior Firebender, and as such, she was to attend lessons that are far more advanced and even rare private lessons with their father.
Lost in his thoughts, Zuko slips up during one of his katas.
Argh!
His calligraphy lessons followed his Firebending lessons.
Zuko tried not to fall asleep.
Later that day, he sat in front of the small pond of our large garden in the back of our estate. He was currently feeding the turtle ducks, a daily habit he had picked up while his mother was still around and still continued to do even after she left. He found it calming and it reminded him of happier times in his life.
"Prince Zuko!" Someone called him from behind. He turns to see that it was his Uncle Iroh.
"Good evening, Uncle. How's your day been?" He bowed slightly at the sight of him to show respect. Uncle was cool to be around…once you got past the tea obsession.
"You know you don't have to bow in my presence Zuko, but yes my day has been well. However, enough about me, it is your birthday Zuko and I have brought you gifts." He said with a bright smile, as he handed the boy a rather large black container.
Zuko grinned back widely, grateful that at least one member of this family remembered it was his birthday. He opened the container to see a pair of twin dao swords, and his jaw dropped agape in stupor, as he admired the supreme workmanship that was now in his possession. The silvery-white blades were extremely sharp, and shined to perfection to the point that he could see the reflection of the sun setting behind him. The cross-guard was a brilliant gold, as was the pommel, the grips were wrapped in thin onyx colored ropes, and at the ends of the pommels were thick crimson rope about two feet long. It was simply amazing.
"The blades are made the finest and most durable platinum available, only the best for my favorite nephew!" Uncle had a large cheesy grin on his face.
"I-I don't know what to say…"
"Hoho, how about 'thank you'?"
"Yes, of course. Thank you, Uncle. I appreciate this gift tremendously, and will treasure it always." Zuko bowed once more, out of habit.
Uncle slapped his nephew's back with a hearty laugh, almost causing him to fall forward. Though his uncle didn't necessarily look it, given his short, and now portly body, Iroh was very strong. "Ah, you're welcome Zuko, but remember I said 'gifts'." Zuko turned his attention from the swords to his uncle in surprise, having forgotten due to being completely drawn into the beauty of the blades in his hands.
"There's more?" He asked, wondering what else could follow up this already incredible first present.
"Why, yes, there is. I know that you've been begging me to allow you to accompany me to the war meetings in your father's throne room." Zuko's eyes begin to widen. No way, he can't mean… "Well now that you are fourteen now, I believe that it is time that you begin to learn more about this war and preparations and process that goes into making sure that we remain ready for battle. As you've told me many, many, many times, you're the heir to the throne so it only makes sense that you start learning these things sooner or later. So how about sooner, eh Zuko?"
"No way, Uncle! You mean you're inviting to the next war meeting?" Zuko couldn't believe it! Finally, he could sit with Uncle and the generals as they strategized for the war effort!
Uncle had single-handedly made this the best day of his life, and just within a few minutes!
"Thank you, Uncle! You're the best; you don't how much this means to me!"
"Hoho, like I said Zuko only the best for my favorite nephew." There was a sudden twinkle in Uncle's eyes, and the boy started to get a bad feeling. "Now you said 'best', right Zuko?" Here it comes... "Seeing as I'm the 'best', how about spending some time with your dear old Uncle? Jasmine tea along with a couple of rounds of Pai Sho sound fun doesn't it?"
Awww, man…
Uncle lead Zuko back into the palace, all the while laughing heartily at his sulking face.
2 Days Before the Agni Kai
Zuko and his uncle were walking towards the throne room of the palace. It was morning, and today was the day of the scheduled war meeting.
Zuko, grinning wider than ever has in years, was impossibly excited.
"Now, Zuko," The prince turned to face Uncle, when old man suddenly spoke out, "there are some ground rules that I must set before we take part in the war meeting." Zuko raised a questioning eyebrow. Ground rules? What for?
"What do you mean, Uncle?"
"It's not much, really just one rule, and that is that you do NOT speak unless spoken to or asked of your opinion." Uncle's face and tone were serious, so he made sure to catch every word. Iroh only spoke like that when it came to important matters.
"It's a matter of respect, Zuko, and it is not your place to be suggesting anything. You have not experienced anything on the battlefield, so anything so say will likely not be taken seriously and may even be taken as an insult. You are here simply to watch, listen and learn. Do I make myself clear nephew? I repeat, do not speak unless spoken to."
That deflated the excitement quite a bit. "So, I'm not to speak unless spoken to first? And in me doing so would be seen as an insult?" Zuko asked for clarification, but also mentally added And due to my inexperience when it came to war, it was very, very unlikely that I would be asked anything…
Damn.
Zuko sighed. Well, I guess for now this was all I could hope for. It was my first war meeting, so it only makes sense it was not my place to question anything. Like Uncle said, this will simply be a learning experience.The prince then turned towards his uncle, managing to still have a smile on his face. "Yes, Uncle, I understand perfectly."
"Good. You may be excited now, but once inside you'll see that these meetings are dreadfully boring." Uncle said with a chuckle.
When they reached the gigantic double doors to the throne room, they saw that someone else had just gotten there.
He was a giant of a man, he was likely 6"11, and his body, though covered in customized armor, was obviously riddled with muscles. He wore dark maroon and red, long-sleeve robes that reached his mid-thigh. He sported black pants. All these clothing were of course both fire resistant and made so that they didn't soak up water. Gold armor covered his wide, massive shoulders and chest. He wore gauntlets that came up to his elbows and armored boots that came up to his knees. Both the gauntlets and armored boots were gold as well and designed to look like the limbs of a tiger. In his right hand, he held a helmet very similar to those of the infantry, except the skull design was black and the flame-like protrusions around it were gold instead of red.
Despite his monstrous deposition, he had a gentle face of someone in their mid, or so, thirties. Unlike most Fire Nation citizens, he had dark-colored skin; darker than those from the Water Tribes. He was completely bald, and his face completely clean-shaven save for his eyebrows and the small goatee on his chin, both of which were blond in color. These distinct features revealed he was from the island of Shāo, the eastern most island on the Fire Nation archipelago. His bright amber eyes really being the only indication, to anyone not of Fire Nation citizenship, that he was one of us.
He smiled widely as he saw them coming, and leaned his giant frame in a bow as they reached him, "Greetings General Iroh, Prince Zuko, I hope your morning has been pleasant?" his voice boomed.
"Please, I thought told before, enough with the pleasantries, General Bǎozhù," Iroh playfully chided him, "besides, it's ex-general now. And yes, our morning has been pleasant as we had a most magnificent breakfast." Uncle rubbed his belly, probably reminiscing about the tea he drank.
It was now Zuko's turn to bow in greeting, "Good morning to you too, Uncle Bǎozhù." Yes, this man was another uncle of the prince; married into the family from his father's side. He'd married his father's late cousin, Auntie Shíxiànle. "How's Shūchàng Xiào and Dài Saishoku? I haven't seen either of them for 5 days now." Shūchàng Xiào and Dài Saishoku were the general's twin children, Zuko's cousins, as well as the prince's first and only friends.
"Ah,Shūchàng? He is, uh, currently redoing some failed lessons..." the large man admitted, slightly embarrassed. "As for Dài, she's currently engaged in Yajuu clan business back on Kokou Island. She should be back in a day, or two." Zuko chuckled softly as he heard the general whisper, "At least, I hope…" quietly to himself. Zuko knew that Shūchàng was notorious for skipping his lessons, and if he could actually bring himself to attend them he was most likely daydreaming and/or humming his songs. On the other hand, Dài was known for her extreme laziness and apathy; how her father barely gets her even to leave her bed, let alone got her to engage in clan business only Agni knows. She's so lazy, she may not even take the effort to return home. Therefore, it came to no surprise that Uncle Bǎozhù was so exasperated when it came to his children.
"Excuse me, sirs?" They all turned to see a young girl in long red and white house-maid clothing, likely 16 or so, emerge from the throne chambers. Her eyes were dark colored and hair was a dark brown, coming down to her cheeks framing her face. She was one of the servants, her name being Xīwàng. Xīwàng had been the primary handmaiden that attended Zuko as he grew up, so he greeted her with a warm smile, which she returned, before continuing. "The meeting is about to commence." She spoke with a practiced polite tone.
"Oh thank you, young lady. Come, Zuko, we wouldn't want to keep those old men and your father waiting." Uncle said as he and the general entered the chamber.
Zuko hesitated for a second before following suit. Xīwàng raised an eyebrow in question, as she watched her prince follow the older gentlemen. Zuko just shrugged his shoulders, as nonchalantly as he could, before he flashed a cheesy grin in her direction as he rushed into the throne room.
Xīwàng simply shook her head, and sighed.
"Hopefully the young master does not do anything foolish," he faintly heard her say, as the door closed behind him.
2 Hours Later
It had been nearly two hours since the meeting started, and it had been exactly like how Uncle had described it.
Boring, and dreadfully so.
It was taking everything in Zuko to stay awake, let alone look like he was paying attention. On the other hand, Uncle yawned multiple times and even dozed off once. He would add in his two cents whenever he deemed it necessary. Uncle Bǎozhù was, however, listening intently; he looked as serious as he had since the meeting had started.
Zuko didn't know how he did it.
In the corner of the throne room, a large muscular man slept with his back facing those attending the meeting and the war meeting itself. While he wasn't as tall as General Bǎozhù, he was still large and intimidating and it didn't help that he was shirtless either. The man had long, unruly, large, spikey hair that was red in color, which alerted Zuko that this man was part of the Houou clan. Large scars covered his arms and shoulders, and his skin held a red hue. He wore a tattered version of General Bǎozhù's pants, however this man was also barefoot. Zuko motioned his Uncle Iroh to the odd man, but Uncle told him not to pay the man any mind before dozing off himself.
Zuko and Iroh were sitting on the cushions at the back end of the enormous mapped out table, while General Bǎozhù was more in the middle. Zuko noticed that Admiral Jeong Jeong was not attending the meeting.
Sitting opposite of Zuko, on the other side of the table, was Azula.
Yes, Azula, an 11 year old girl, was attending the war meeting.
Many of the old generals had shaken their heads disapproving at the sight of a 14 year old and 11 year old attending the meeting. Zuko even heard one general muttered something along the lines of "this isn't a damn nursery".
However Zuko, too, had been shocked to see Azula already there as well. When she saw the shocked look on his face, she smirked and motioned her head towards the throne which blocked by a massive pillars of golden flames. One could just barely make out the silhouette of the Fire Lord sitting cross-legged on his throne, but the flames themselves signified his presence. Realization hit Zuko, and his face settled into a deep frown.
Father had allowed her to take part in this war meeting, but not me.
Not the heir to his throne.
This just served as another reminder of what his father saw him as. A failure.
Azula's smirk only widen, when she saw his frown. However now, she too, was struggling to pay attention as well.
At this point the generals and admirals were discussing the matters of an attack of a stronghold within the Earth Kingdom. The man speaking at the moment was General Bujing, the same man who made the nursery comment. He had grey/white hair like Iroh, showing his age, which was all pull up into a tight topknot just as everyone one else….well those that had hair anyway. He had a long, thin mustache that drooped down way past his chin and down to his not-as-long-but-still-pretty-long goatee and He had a smug, and almost, sadistic air about him.
Zuko could already tell that he didn't like this man.
"The Earth Kingdom defenses are concentrated here." General Bujing started, "A dangerous battalion of the fort's strongest Earthbenders and fiercest warriors. I am recommending sending the 41st Division through the front, while we have our main forces circle the fort unabated and attack the rear."
"But the 41st is made almost entirely of new recruits." boomed the voice of General Bāobì, in objection. "I should know given that they are in under my command. As the person in charge of their training, I can say for a fact that they are not ready for the action that they would be sure to see on the battlefield. How do you expect them to hold off, let alone defeat an Earth Kingdom battalion?"
"I don't," General Bujing started, with a cruel smirk on his face, "they'll be used as a distraction, will we march on and attack from the rear. What better to use as bait for those Earth Kingdom beasts, than 'fresh meat'?"
General Bǎozhù met General Bujing's cruel smirk, with a stern glare.
I knew I didn't like this man!This man was willing to send an entire division of unsuspecting, as well as, unprepared young recruits to the slaughter! Those soldiers joined the war effort because they want to defend the nation that they love! We shouldn't just betray them in such a manner!
Zuko was about to move to say something when a strong hand gripped his arm, and kept him seated. The prince turned to see his uncle, Iroh, look at him with the most serious face he'd ever seen him wear. He didn't even have to say anything; the look he gave Zuko said it all.
Don't you dare speak.
Grudgingly, the boy held my tongue and kept him opinion to himself. He just settled on glaring daggers at the ruthless old general.
General Bǎozhù moved like he was going to retort, but was beat to the punch.
"What a stupid plan."
All eyes shot to where the voice originated from.
It was Azula, who looked rather smug herself as she looked at the General Bujing who in turned looked at her in stupefied shock. Zuko's face having the same expression.
"Wh-what did you just-!"
"Must I repeat myself?" Azula interrupted him again, waving him away with a bored expression; as if he was the child and she was the adult. After a second Zuko's face went from shocked to acceptance. He didn't even know why he was even surprised.
This was his sister, Azula. Such a showing of disrespect to those saw as beneath her was to be expected.
Zuko continued to listen to her, as she continued. This is gonna be interesting."Do I have to remind you of the failed 600 day siege on Ba Sing Se?" he looked at his uncle, Iroh, from the corner of his eye. If the mention of his greatest failure bothered him, he didn't show it. "We used up a great deal of resources and lost a good chunk of fine soldiers just trying to pierce those impenetrable walls of the Earth Kingdom royal capital, and we're still suffering from those losses. Those new recruits, that you are so willing to send to their deaths, are part of the restoration of our army back to its former glory. From what I've heard, the 41st Division is the best crop of recruits we've had since the late, great Fire Lord Azulon himself tore through northwestern territories of the Earth Kingdom. If your plan was to move forward, we'd lose these young soldiers far before they could reach their true potential setting us and our army even further back in terms of both man power and skill. Not to mention the fact that, if this Earth Kingdom battalion is as powerful as you make them out to be then a group of highly inexperienced young soldiers would not need the attention of the entire battalion to fend them off; likely only a small fraction of their forces. Also, the terrain acts as a problem as well." Azula pointed to the spot on the map on the map that Bujing was pointing to earlier, "The area you want the 41st Division to attack is a deep valley. A couple landslides here, a couple hundred Earth Spies there and your 'diversion' will be finished in a matter of a few minutes and the enemy will be back in position prepared to for your attack from the back. Good, promising young soldiers would be sacrificed in vain. It would be a waste. Honestly, did you think this ahead before coming here? Not only did you want to needlessly want to waste the lives of our soldiers, but you've also wasted the time of everyone here." Azula finished, with a satisfied smirk as
General Bujing glared fiercely at her. He was both insulted that someone would speak to him in such a manner of disrespect, and embarrassed that it had come from a little girl, who had also easily crushed his strategy.
Zuko stifled a laugh, as he looked at the old general's face.
It wasn't what he would've said, but it was better than nothing. The general could not refute any of Azula's points, and he knew it. Zuko could feel relieved that the 41st Division would not be foolishly sacrificed. However, he couldn't help but feel jealousy start to creep into his thoughts.
Why hadn't I been able to assess and then break down the stupid plan? Why was she so well-versed in the art of war and their military? Wasn't I the older sibling? Wasn't I supposed to be the wiser and more knowledgeable one?
Zuko couldn't stand her being so much better than him at everything! She was better at Firebending! Better than him at calligraphy! Smarter than me too, as evidenced from her school grades in comparison to his....The only thing I had over her was his skill in martial arts and weapons, but in a country where Firebending takes precedence over everything, and the fact that I've inherited Sozin's flames and yet can barely launch a simple fireball, those skills didn't do much in the way of impressing my father. Besides, how long till Azula surpassed me in those areas as well?
Zuko was brought out of his thoughts, by the ominous silence that filled the room.
Looking around, I saw that everyone was staring at a suddenly very nervous looking Azula. There were some looking at her wide-eyed, in shock she knew as much as she knew, while others (including General Bujing) were glaring at her likely insulted by the fact that a little girl would dare speak out in matters that didn't concern her. Uncle was shaking his head disapprovingly, while General Bǎozhù simply looked at the map. However, amidst the silence, Zuko could've sworn he heard a light chuckle coming from where the large, shirtless man laid.
Then he remembered his uncle's words: You have not experienced anything on the battlefield, so anything you say will likely not be taken seriously and may even be taken as an insult.
Azula had done exactly what Uncle had advised him not to do. While Azula was right, it was not her place to speak on such matters. She had effectively insulted and disrespected all those of high military rank, including the General-Commander of the Fire Nation Army.
The Fire Lord.
Our Father.
Oh Shit…
It was then, that the golden pillars of flames that surrounded theYoen Teiza swelled up, and then erupted up to the high ceiling.
"Who said that?" a calm voice of Zuko's father was heard, though all those in attendance could feel the barely contained anger and that anger only seemed to increase, along with the volume of his voice, as he continued. "Who would dare insult this war council? Who thinks themselves so highly that they think can just interrupt matters of such importance?
"Who dares to insult me in my own throne room?"
The room all of a sudden became deathly silent. Zuko had never seen Azula so nervous before. She was paler than usual and sweat was pouring down her forehead in large amount, and for good reason.
Among high rank nobles (those who could Firebend anyway), there were those families that followed the ancient tradition of the Agni Kai. An Agni Kai was a duel that was issued when one felt that their honor was violated. To their father, a situation like this, in his throne room, regardless of its little significance, was just the same and their father had a rather long history with Agni Kais.
Long, bloody, and paved with charred bodies.
It looked like Azula was thinking about this as well, as she to shrink into the cushion she was kneeling on.
"Come now, speak up. You did it so well just a moment ago." Azula was positively shaking at this point.
As much as Zuko enjoyed seeing the "Great" Azula in such a vulnerable state, he couldn't find it in himself to let her suffer the punishment he knew would follow. Zuko remembered the last time he had managed a private training session with their father. It was many years ago, and the scars had since fade, via healers, but he could still feel the heat from the burns on his back, though they had long healed.
The prince closed his eyes, hesitating a bit, before slowing breathing in and out before standing. Iroh's grip had lessened, making it easier to stand up quickly.
"I-it was me Father." Zuko managed to stammer out the sentence.
Silence.
Both his uncles looked at him in shock, as was Azula though she was still shaking. At that point, he knew that he would forever hate seeing his sister in such a sorry state. She was too strong to be looking like that, but…it was their father…
All of a sudden he heard a low chuckle, which soon evolved into full blown laughter.
It came from their father, but then he suddenly became serious.
"Don't play around with me, Boy." There it was, "that" word. Zuko can't remember the last time his father called him by his given name.
Boy.
"I don't know what you are doing here, but keep quiet as I weed out the disrespectful coward." Zuko saw Azula flinch in the corner of his promised that he'd protect her.
He steeled his nerves and then spoke out.
"Like I said, Father, it was me." Iroh opened his mouth, about to say something, but Zuko quickly continued. "The plan was stupid," He tried to mimic his sister's confidence as he spoke, and all those times he mocked her, behind her back, paid off, " not only stupid but a waste of time and men. I simply stated the obvious." Azula's jaw dropped as he finished, and it took everything to keep himself from smirking. The sudden spike in flames from those fire pillars helped too.
"To think you'd even disgrace me here! In my OWN WAR MEETING!" The flames exploded forth once again. Zukofelt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up and his knees buckle.
...What have I gotten myself into...?
"You think you're a 'big boy' now don't you, Boy?" Zuko was too scared to think coherently, let alone respond, but his father continued. "It was your birthday a couple days ago, right? Well I think I've come up the perfect gift."
Zuko's eyes widened, despite the fact that he already knew what was coming.
"An Agni Kai." Beside him, Iroh grimaced. "Two days from now, at noon, we will meet in the arena and I will gladly give you your present. I just hope you can properly handle it, son." The last word was spat with so much disgust…Zuko just fell back into his cushion.
"This meeting is over; I've other business to attend to. Leave me." And like that, everyone quickly shuffled out of the throne room but none as fast as Azula. Zuko didn't blame her, though, despite all the bravado she displayed…she was still just an 11 year old, little girl.
She ran down the corridor the led to her room, tears staining her face.
Zuko, too, left to my own room, in a very stiff stride; walking past the still shirtless, sleeping Houou clan member.
Zuko had a lot to think about.
One day before Agni Kai.
"Please Zuko, don't fight back during the Agni Kai." Iroh advised his nephew with a worried voice.
They were in his uncle's chambers. He wanted to talk to Zuko one last time before tomorrow. He wanted to give advice, but what he said, Zuko clearly didn't agree with.
Not all.
"What? Why would I not fight back? I'm no coward!" Zuko couldn't believe he just said that. This was my chance…
"I never said you were, Zuko, but your father, my brother, …he's not an opponent that some with your level of skill, power, or experience can ever hope to defeat."
"But Uncle, I have to-!"
"Listen to me, Zuko!" He was startled by his uncle raising his voice like that. It was unlike him. Iroh calmed himself down before speaking again. "Please, Zuko, I've fought my brother many times and trust me when I say this…
"Your father is a monster." He said this while looking at his nephew with a deathly serious face. "I've sparred with my brother many times; pitted my flames against his. I can say with confidence that the man is the strongest Firebender on the planet, surpassing both Admiral JeongJeong and me. You have no chance at all of beating him. It is impossible. Your best bet is to make yourself look harmless, weak, so that he might lose interest and end the fight quickly. He won't kill you, as you are still his son, despite he's feelings toward you. If you go out there, and by some small chance manage to push your father, he may take interest…and if that happens you will still come out of it alive,but…not the same...Please, nephew…a son must not fight his father."
Zuko took his time in digesting his uncle's words.
He understood everything he said…but he didn't care. This was my chance to prove to my father that I am worthy of being his son.
I am not a coward.
Zuko frantically shook his head as he spoke. "I'm NOT some weak child, as to beg for the mercy of a light burning! I prove to my father that I am indeed worthy of being his son and deserving of his respect. I won't just give up! I'm not you!"
Iroh was a bit taken aback, that Zuko, of all people, would insult him in such a manner."Zuko, pleas-!" His uncle pleaded still, but the prince cut him off, tired of his 'advice'.
"That's enough!" I've made my decision. I'll fight, and I'll prove my worth. As crown prince of the Fire Nation, and heir to the Yoen Teiza, I can't afford to back down."
Zuko left the room after that.
He was scared, but that didn't matter. Tomorrow's Agni Kai was all that mattered.
His uncle said it was "impossible", but a word wasn't going deter him.
I'm a child of Agni. Stuff like this comes in the job description, and I'm gonna be sure not to disappoint. Zuko thought to himself in self-reassurance, as he shakily walked down the corridor.
Zuko finally managed to get up.
Man...everything hurts….
Especially the ribs, on his right side. Probably cracked,he grimaced.
It was times like these that made him wonder why he still keeps that promise to himself.
I was, like, 3 when I made it.
When he promised to protect Azula, as her big brother, for as long as it was within his power. For as long as he lived.
It was a stupid promise, and Azula at the time was just a few days old. He had no idea what Azula would grow up to be. She doesn't need my protection anymore.
But when he saw her scared like that, Zuko remembered her as his baby sister. Not a rival.
A promise is a , man…. Azula's right. I'm too stupid for my own good.
The ringing in his ears finally stopped, as he finally righted myself. He looks at his father.
The Fire Lord held a face that just screamed "unimpressed".
Heh, I must look pretty bad…
His father's mouth opens and he speaks out another word the prince was so familiar with:
"Disappointing."
Zuko ignored the pain that ached throughout his body, and entered a stance more than ready to continue the fight.
Yeah, I know Father.
He still wasn't done yet.
Let's see if I can change that.
Author's Notes:
Translations:
Lóng de Xī: Dragon of the West
LiúchàngLóng: Graceful Dragon
Shūchàng Xiào: Happy (as in free from worry), Smile and laugh
Dài Saishoku: Lazy and negligent, wit and beauty
Bǎozhù: to preserve, save and protect
Xīwàng: wish and desire
Yoen Teiza: Burning Throne
Shíxiànle: fulfilled, realized, and achieved
Houou: mythical phoenix bird, or just phoenix
Yajuu: beast, wild animal, and monster
Well it's finally out, the first chapter of my first story.
After 3 days of writing in-between basketball at the park, reading manga, watching anime, watching UFC 148 as I post this, and summer school, I've finally completed chapter 1 of my first Avatar fanfic, Burning Son.
I had just finished watching the season 1 finale of Legend of Korra. And I gotta say, I was disappointed.
It inspired me to write my own story, and I decided that my first fanfic would be a retelling of Zuko, my favorite Avatar character, in my own style.
As you can see, I've changed some things quite a bit.
1) Zuko actually fights back against his father, in the Agni Kai. Cool, right?
2) Zuko and Azula actually have a brother-sister thing going on….kinda. It'll be elaborated on as the story continues.
3) Ozai isn't necessarily completely a heartless bastard. More of Ozai's character and past will be gradually revealed as the story continues
This is my first ever fanfic, so ruthless constructive criticism is immensely welcomed. I want to get better, in order provide better writing for those who enjoy this story.
Until next time