"Ok…here we go," Zuko said to his uncle. They were docked at the capital, and by to looks of it the Fire Lord had revoked Zuko's title as a traitor. Everyone in the city had turned out for a huge celebration in honor of the prince's return home. It was as though the past two years never happened. Zuko scanned the crowed and noticed some childhood friends and old tutors. As they walked down the gangplank, he even thought he saw his sister among the masses, her confident smirk mocking him as it always did. Not this time, my dear sister. The Fire Lords chief council met the party at the bottom.
"Welcome back, your Highness," Carrig said with a smile. "Welcome, General Iroh, welcome back to the motherland. You all must be very tired and hungry. Ah, who is this young maiden?" Zuko remembered Carrig from when he was young. The old Spirit was a crabby thing, quick to anger and decision. Zuko had never liked him, and was well aware of his reputation with young, beautiful women. He stepped in front of Katara to block her from the man's view.
"She is the prisoner I took to get the Avatar to follow me. A poor, dirty water peasant. Her filth is…everywhere." Carrig's look of interest turned to one of distaste when Zuko made the subtle hint towards her possible unchaste…a trait to which he was not attracted. Zuko sighed inwardly in relief that he was able to divert Carrig's interest.
"Yes, we are very tired and hungry, but unfortunately we need to keep going. My uncle, along with the girl and the children, and I seek an audience with my father immediately. My men, though, can be taken care of. After they have put the ship in storage, they are to be paid and are free to go."
Carrig bowed. "Yes, Prince. But the Avatar…"
"Will stay where he is. I am confident he will not leave."
"Very well. Your father is expecting you. This way, sir."