Zuko and Uncle

Uncle sighed, "Zuko, I refuse to continue these pointless lightning bending lessons with you. You cannot concentrate unless you are able to separate your chi's energy. You need to let go of your worry to capture the avatar."

"I can't do that uncle," Zuko yelled, stopping in mid-kick to face his Uncle. "My honor relies on capturing that airbender. I refuse to give up!" Zuko walked up to his Uncle and couldn't believe what he was saying. Does he really think I am going to drop my 3-year search and just give up!

"Ozai will never let you back into the fire nation except as a prisoner! That is the only reason he sent Azula to capture us! I know my brother, Zuko; he is unforgiving and will only trust Azula to the throne. He sees himself in her. No matter what you think, he will not give you your honor back!" Uncle glared at Zuko trying to get the point across to his stubborn nephew.

Zuko had never seen Uncle like this. He was always so caring. Now he looked so serious and concerned. Then, a thought came to him that he didn't want to let himself believe. What if Uncle is right? Father sent me away and sent Azula out to hunt us down like traitors. Uncle stayed with me, even in my banishment. "NOOOOOOOO!" Zuko screamed out to the vast ocean; only realizing it was said out loud when Uncle came and put a comforting hand on his shoulder. The rest of the crew was playing a game of Pi shou and enjoying not being constantly criticized by Zuko.

Zuko loved his father, but realized that the only one that truly cared for him was Uncle. He snubbed Uncle's hand off his shoulder and went to the middle of the deck and started throwing out random flames in every direction. He felt this was the only way to let out the rage that was now building up inside of him. Not directed at the avatar, but at his father.

"I want you to come inside and have some tea with me Zuko. You will find it can be most relaxing." Uncle claimed as he half opened the door leading to the main room inside the boat. He watched Zuko for a few minutes and then went in, hoping Zuko would soon tire and join him.

After a few hours, Zuko came in to find his Uncle had joined the on-going game of Pie shou. Uncle heard him and turned to look at his stubborn nephew. "So," he started, "have you blown off enough steam to join us? I still stand on my offer to make you some tea."

"I'm not playing that stupid game and NO I don't want any tea! I'm going to bed and I want to be left alone.

"Suit yourself. But I want you to think about what I have told you today." Uncle got that look in his eye again that meant he was serious.

Zuko stared at the ceiling for a long time. He could make out the crew having a quiet music night and Uncle was singing his seasons song. He wondered if he would ever be as peaceful as his Uncle was. He seemed to not have a care in the world. He turned toward the fire nation flag hanging next to his cot. Normally when he looked at the flag, he imagined the honor he would restore by bringing the avatar to his father. Yet, for some reason, tonight he thought only of what Uncle had told him. He rolled over and drifted into a deep sleep.