Chapter 12: Invasion: Part 1 - The End of an Era

A new month had begun, and with that came a new and unknown journey. The Fire Nation had yet another peaceful and prosperous day. Its citizens had went about their business while the likelihood of war and destruction was far from their main concern. Their lands hadn't seen the effects of war for decades. Obliviousness reigned upon all who resided within the vicinity of the Fire Nation Capital, and it is obliviousness that would soon falter once they witness first hand that their cherished Capital will fall into ruins. All while a new era of war and chaos would sprout from the roots of agony. But until then, oblivious they would all remain.

Iroh was seen venturing through the local marketplace examining fresh herbs and purchasing specific ones he began to run short on. The local Tea Shop he owned was still running while he was away in Ba Sing Se - usually without his supervision. Instead he allowed the management of locals who had a similar passion take control during his absence, only returning to this subtle place if he had the time. The retired General, now in his mid seventies - yet nearly as sharp as he was in his younger days just finished buying a fresh amount of herbs to be taken back to his humble shop. He strolled happily down the streets, smiling at those coming his way and giving those who responded to his smile the proper greeting of the day.

Humming a light and gentle tune, he came to a slow stop as he felt a chill run down his spine. He was being watched. He turned his attention to the stand that was selling fruits next to him, acting as though he hadn't felt the odd presence of his pursuer lurking nearby. His eyes slowly maneuvered from the corner of his eyes searching for something out of place; and then he did. A lone presence of a man concealed by robes lingered in the shadows of a narrow alley. He averted his eyes quickly as to not arise any suspicion. Stepping away from the stand, he continued his walk while slowly increasing his pace as natural as he could possibly make it. He didn't want this unknown person aware that he knows if its presence, so he continued putting up a mask of normality. Curiously glancing over his shoulder with wonder if this person was indeed his pursuer, his thoughts were soon confirmed once he witnessed the person maneuver gently through a less exposing path all while tailing him.

Arriving at his Tea Shop, Iroh quickly entered the building. He gave a smile to the management and employees instilled during his leave all while he approached the cabinets where the restocking of fresh herbs was needed. While doing this he made sure that the front door was within his view - curious to see if his pursuer would enter the shop. So far - nothing. So he waited, and waited, and waited... Nothing. Just before he assumed the person had abandoned his task, the door pushed open as the same cloaked person emerged through its frame. He took a seat in a more isolated corner of the shop. Iroh narrowed his eyes lightly at the man who glanced his way, but as quickly as he did, he soon reverted back to a neutral and welcoming expression. Eyeing one of his waiters who approached the man, he witnessed the employee welcome and converse with him about what he would like. The man muttered softly, and the waiter nodded before heading towards the direction of Iroh.

"What does he want?" Iroh asked in an almost demanding tone.

"Jasmine Tea."

Iroh nodded before preparing the Tea as he had always done. Freshly brewed and natural to its taste. Once completed, he exited behind the counter as he spoke to his employee. "I'll take it to him, go make sure all of our other guests are enjoying themselves."

He approached the man calmly. Once his pursuer noticed his approach, his hand slid under the table in a threatening manner. Iroh narrowed his eyes at the alerting sight. Placing the cup of tea before the person, he reacted swiftly to stop whatever he was intending to do. His hands clasped firmly around the mans arm as he held a flaming palm against his neck.

"Not here." Iroh spoke almost menacingly. "Meet me in the abandoned courtyard near town square, I would much rather settle whatever this is away from my shop - as well as all bystanders who could be caught up in this confrontation."

Slowly releasing the man from his grasp, he ensured there would not be any hostility before releasing him fully. Turning away, Iroh went back to his business leaving the man to sit silently at the table. Once he stepped behind the counter, he turned to get a look at the man once more - only to realize that the table was now empty, and the Tea that he had placed on the wooden table only moments ago had too disappeared.


Toph had returned to the Fire Nation along with Sokka that morning. They had stayed and assisted in reforging the nearly collapsed economy of Kyoshi, all while grieving with those who had known loved ones who perished that day. Sokka's grieving mood turned sour to almost all encounters with even those he affiliated himself with. His sense of sarcasm and goofiness has since faded ever since the murder of his wife, and with that came the never ending thirst for vengeance.

Sokka and Suki - they had planned to begin a family together, and they had! For he had last seen her only weeks before her death, and during that short but loving time Suki had come out to him excitingly, yet nervously stating that she was pregnant; and a child - their child - had been growing within her womb for nearly the last two months. Now no longer, for they had kept that secret between the two of them until her dying breath. He not only watched as her wife was laid to rest, but his child who had yet to see its first sunrise. That day he swore to the last dying cell within his body that he would uncover the murderer that had taken such a cherished gift in his life and bring him to justice - his own personal justice.

Their was a small interrogation shortly before their departure, and as much as Sokka did not want any of the inhabitants of Kyoshi to relive the haunting moments within their thoughts, he had no other choice if he were to get any leads on his wife's killer. There hadn't been much to say, and the only thing he could scavenge out was the fact that this man was some kind of bender who was mostly concealed due to a cloak he carried - however a few individuals had come out saying that they had caught traces of inhuman limbs hidden beneath. Frustrated with what little information he uncovered, he set off back to the Fire Nation in hopes that Zuko may had discovered something worth his attention. If not, he could at least pass off the information he's acquired in order to gain an extra pair of eyes in this search.

Stepping onto the docks of the Fire Lord's Harbor, his eyes settled upon the Capital of the Fire Nation along with Tophs. The two had noticed the faint outlines of the Royal Palace just in the distance. Looking up at the sky, the sun was beginning to reach its highest peak during the day within a short few hours. The two looked at each other as if reading their thoughts. Giving a nod, Toph and Sokka stepped off and headed towards the direction of the Royal Palace; all while their hearts remained heavy due to the past events of devastation.


"What do you mean there was an escape?!"

Fire Lord Zuko stood from his throne in unbelievable frustration. Below him was a messenger sent from the Boiling Rock who had come to deliver the tragic news. The man cowered beneath the Fire Lord as he did not know how to respond.

"I-It's as you hear, Fire Lord." He hesitantly spoke. "There was a prison break, and many guards who tried to control the unlawful act were killed in the process; The Warden included."

Slumping down in his throne, he rubbed his forehead as he felt another headache rising. "How long has it been?" He demanded.

The messenger gazed away nervously. "U-Um, Judging by the age of the bodies we had come across - I'd say, no more than a month."

"One month?!" He practically yelled. "Why am I now just hearing about it?! You know what, don't answer that. I want to speak to your Commanding Officer and ask him this myself." He furiously marched down the steps as the view from his window drew his attention. "Tell me, have they identified all who escaped?"

"Yes, they have." He began to list them off. "One of them was an old woman, she is a Water Bender who is able to bend blood during the full moon. A dangerous foe to be reckoned with. She was brought to our custody after citizens from one of our smaller villages informed us that she was responsible for the disappearance of many on the night of full moons. Another was is a man named Long Feng, an Earth Bender who had control over the corrupted Dai Li that worked solely for his benefits."

"I remember Long Feng." Zuko rubbed his chin in thought. "I haven't interacted with him much in my younger days as an exiled Prince, but when I did he did seemed rather shady." He looked back at the messenger expecting nothing more. "Is that all?"

The messenger gulped. "Not exactly, sir." He began again. "The third person who escaped is... well, it's your sister; the Ex-Fire Princess Azula."

Zuko narrowed his eyes. "Azula?! This is not good, I had not seen my sister in years. In fact, I had given up all sense of hope that bringing her out from her insanity would just be impossible. I abandoned that task years ago. Someone like her coming back to the world is dangerous. I never thought I'd hear her name spoken again. Hearing it brings me great shame that I couldn't do more for her" He paused his voiced thoughts as his eyes trailed back to the messenger, speaking as if knowing his thoughts. "There is another, isn't there?"

"Yes, Fire Lord." The messenger sighed. "The last person to escape the Boiling Rock was none other than the self proclaimed Phoenix King Ozai, your father."

"I should've known this would've happened." He silently cursed. "Thank you, you may leave now. I have some priorities I must attend to."

The messenger stood before bowing in sign of respect. He then proceeded to exit the throne room, still shaken that some irritation and frustration the Fire Lord exhibited was directed at him. As if on cue, Kya had entered the throne room just after the messenger departed. Her duties as Princess had been quite slow and dull lately, so she had more than enough time on her hands for something being included on the side. So she thought, what better way to spend this free time given by strengthening her expertise with Fire? She would much rather sharpen her training in Water Bending, however her master Pakku hadn't furthered her teachings since last year. She had learned much from Pakku, including the connections she had with her mother Katara. The necklace was a dead giveaway surely, for Pakku only knew two women who held the necklace he engraved. The last person to wear such an artifact would be her mother. He had told stories about her when it was just them two, and she found herself admiring her mother for her resilience of accepting the rejection by being taught by Pakku. Now, the old man had returned to the Northern Water Tribe to live out his remaining years in comfortable isolation from alternate cultures of the world, and would only return when he felt needed to. Her thoughtful expression soon turned puzzled once she witnessed the longing face Zuko expressed. He was in deep thought, and Kya knew whenever her father got like this it was because something serious had just happened.

"Father?" Kya inched closer to him. She now stood next to him as he continued to be oblivious to her presence. She leaned forward just in direct lining of his pupils, and after a few seconds his eyes soon met hers causing him to come out of his stupor.

"O-Oh, Kya." He smiled. "I didn't hear you. You must be getting pretty good at sneaking up on people huh?"

Kya giggled. "No, I think it's because you're getting old."

Zuko scoffed. "Yeah right, I'm only in my thirties."

"You sure don't act like it then." Her smile only widened when she saw the annoyed look on her fathers face. "Father, I was wondering if you can further my teachings in Fire Bending?"

Zuko raised an eyebrow. "Kya, you're practically a master at Fire Bending at this point. I don't have much left to teach you in this particular element." He sighed. "Besides, as much as I would love to continue to hone your skills, I'm afraid I don't have the time."

Her puzzled expression returned. "I don't understand, your schedule hasn't been so tight lately... is it because of that messenger that was here moments ago?"

Zuko nodded, and when he looked into Kya's eyes once more he could already see her wanting an answer as to why. "Kya, I normally don't include you or your brother in any of the news that bring about conflict in this world; But at your age I believe you're more than ready to learn what I have to deal with if either of you are ever to be my successor as Fire Lord. You know of the Boiling Rock, correct? The place where we keep dangerous and unstable criminals around the globe from escaping."

She nodded. "Yeah, what of it?"

"There's been a prison break. Luckily only four of the hundreds of prisoners stuck on that forsaken asylum escaped. Unfortunately, the four people that did are some of the most dangerous benders out there."

Kya hummed. "Are they really that bad?"

"You remember the tyranny my father Ozai reigned across the globe, correct? The one where he, my grandfather Azulon, and my great grandfather Sozin had caused?" Seeing Kya's eyes lightly widened confirmed that she still did. "Well, unfortunately he was one of the few that escaped. With him was another ferocious and powerful Fire Bender you must be wary of if you ever encounter her. My sister, Azula."

"Sister?" She crossed her arms. "I don't recall you speaking about a sister. She's considered my Aunt then - right?"

He sighed. "Yeah, I suppose so. As for why I haven't spoken of her; to put it simply - it has remained a haunting memory that I'm ashamed of facing. I was unable to save her crumbling sanity all those years ago, and because of that I shunned that name from my memory."

Kya rubbed her head in thought. "I see, well that means we just got to capture and lock them up again. Right?"

"Easier said than done." He smiled at her plain and straightforward answer. "But I like how simple you put it. Now, come." He left the throne room with Kya in toe. "By the way, do you know where your brother is? We haven't spoken much since that night a few moons ago." His gaze ahead fell into a sadden one at the thought of Tenzin. The secrets he's been keeping almost all of his life has caused the young man to shun him almost entirely from his life. "Kya, about the truth that I've kept from you two, I just-"

"It's okay, Father." She interrupted his apology while presenting a smile. "Don't get me wrong, I am a bit angered that you didn't tell us sooner. It could've explained so much about us. There were times that I thought myself to be inhuman. That somehow, my existence in this world was out of place - and that maybe I was a mistake created by some supernatural being. Now I understand that you just wanted to protect and keep ourselves from doing any unnecessary actions, especially when we're in an era of peace. It may have hurt at the time, but your intentions were nothing but pure. I can't entirely push myself pass the fact that you lied to us for all of our lives; but I can't rule out that you were acting as a father should - with care and concern for our well beings. So father, just know that I forgive you, and no matter what I will always love you."

Zuko couldn't quite believe what he was hearing. He knew at some point his children will uncover some truth to their heritage, and he's been mentally preparing for the possibility of being shunned by them for the rest of his life. So hearing these forgiving and loving words from his daughter just wasn't entirely what he expected. Looking down at her beautiful face, he could make out the distinct features between her and her mother. Katara was a stern, yet loving person. She may have held a grudge on you for sometime, but it wouldn't rule out the overwhelming love she had buried within her soul. He saw Katara in Kya, a lot of it; and its resemblance brought a small tear to his eye as he thought of her fiance.

"Kya." He wrapped an arm around her shoulder and brought her in for a side hug. "Thank you. After everything that has been going on lately, that was exactly what I needed." He rested his cheek on top of her head, enjoying the warmth she provided as well as the lovable aroma of her hair.

"Mother's Tomb."

Zuko pulled away as he heard her spoke those words, his eyes gazed down in curiosity as he beckoned her to clarify what she meant.

"Tenzin has been spending some time at Mother's Tomb lately." She spoke again. "If I were to guess, he may be there right now. I sometimes feel as if he tries to reach out to her. Like he is in need of motherly love."

"How long has he been doing this?"

"For as long as I can remember." She answered. "But lately he's been there more often than usual. Do you, want to go to him?"

Zuko paused momentarily. Should he? Should he interrupt the bonding between his son and a mother that was thought to be dead? "No." He answered. "No, let him be. I'll speak to him when the time arises"

As soon as he finished his sentence, there was bright light that sparked just outside of the window that caused both he and Kya to flinch at its blinding reflection. It slowly dimmed to where its shine was bearable. And as soon as it did, the two rushed out onto the balcony near the top of the Royal Palace observing what was causing such a commotion. A continuous spark of lightning in the color of a fiery orange struck into a certain sector in the Capital. It was a bewildering sight, and it left much questions to roam in the minds of all who saw it.

"Father, look!" Kya pointed at another sector of the city below.

Zuko glanced over at nearly the opposite end of the Capital City's boundaries where a streak of lightning - this one a light brown in color - struck into another spot of the city. And then one final one struck down from the sky above, this one being blue in color as it impacted near the Fire Lord's Harbor. Zuko stared wide eyed at these unnatural weather conditions. It was then where they soon adjusted into horror as he witnessed what emerged from the three spots the lightning impacted on.

"We're under attack."


"I'm not sure about this, Avatar. Are you sure this will work?"

"I sense doubt within you."

"N-No! That's not what I mean at all." Azula croaked under her cloak as she felt her lungs temporarily restricted from breathing. She was released within a few seconds as to not create a scene within this busy street in the Capital of the Fire Nation.

"I may be more lenient with you, Azula. But do not mistake these small amounts of kindness I present to you as vulnerability."

"I-I understand." She slowly breathed as to not arise curious glances from bystanders. "It's just, we came with less than half of what the entirety of the Dai Li possessed. I thought we were leading an invasion, yet you spread what little we had thinly across the entire Capital. I just don't understand how this will work?"

"A conqueror does not reveal his strategies before he has executed them." He glanced at Azula and cupped her chin with his left hand. "I thought you'd have a little more faith in your Avatar?"

She shuddered under his touch. "I-I do it's just, you have Ran and Shaw under your command. Two of the last living and breathing dragons to exist in this world. We can use their power and aerial superiority to our advantage, but you hide em elsewhere in this time of need."

"No, it would be an unneeded exposure of the power I contain." He pulled his hand away. "We aren't leading a charge, Azula. If all goes as plan, the Fire Nation will crumble before they realize what has hit them."

"I don't understand you, Avatar. I don't even understand what you're thinking." Her eyes settled upon his lips that faintly smiled.

"Oh, Azula. If it weren't for your honesty to me that night, you probably wouldn't be sitting here next to me right now."

"Where would I be then?"

"Who knows." He leaned back in the chair he was sitting in while his eyes settled upon the sun. It was nearing its peak, and when that does happen he would launch his attack. "Any moment now, we will begin."

Azula sat silently across from him. Her thoughts reverting to what he said earlier about where she'd be if not for that night. What did he mean by that? What had altered her course of destiny that made her sat along side him now instead of being placed elsewhere to do his bidding? These thoughts brought her back to the night prior where they held up in one of the abandoned buildings in the outskirts of the Capital.

Flashback

The night had settled upon the Fire Nation. It was still and silent, yet the chirping of crickets remained present. Few torches have been placed around the vicinity to prevent easy light detection from Fire Nation patrols that may linger nearby. Azula had been informed by one of the Dai Li Agents earlier that Aang had wanted to speak to her at a particular time. Curious as to what he wanted, Azula arrived at the destination that was instructed. Opening the door, she entered one of the rooms that contained a single torch that barely lit up each corner of the room they were in. She was greeted by her father as well as Long Feng and Hama who had stood silently elsewhere. It seemed as if they too had been informed of a meeting with the Avatar. Aang had made himself known only moments after Azulas arrival. It turned out he was hiding in one of the corners undetected by all who had been waiting for him.

"It seems we are all here." His voice startled yet broke the silence between the four.

"My lord." Long Feng was the first to kneel before him, shortly followed by the other three.

"Rise." He spoke before making his way towards the center where a map of the Capital City had been laid out.

They all approached the table and stood around it all observing as to what he had in mind.

"I know we came up with a plan earlier, however I have decided to discard that idea with this new one." Aang began pointing across various portions of the city. "We will spread our forces among these various positions, each spot shall contain no more than twenty Dai Li Agents who will begin their assault as soon as the signal is given. Hama, since you are proficient in Water Bending I shall have you head back to Fire Lord's Harbor with a handful of Dai Li you shall personally distribute across the area as you see fit. As for yourself, I don't care where you position yourself as long as its close to a large body of water. Preferably the ocean if I say so myself. Long Feng, you will be placed near the boundaries of the Capital where the Earth at its natural form is at its highest. There is a large path where reinforcements from neighboring cities could reach if not sealed off, your task is to completely block its accessibility to anyone and everyone from entering or escaping."

At this point everyone had an expression of absolute disbelief as to what he was saying? It was bad enough that Aang had refused the entirety of the forces at his disposal, and now it was even worse that he thinned out what forces they had to practically be picked off like flies.

"Ozai, do I have a task for you." Aang grinned. "The Dai Li had spotted someone that I'm sure you'd like to see killed. Iroh, your elder brother was last seen at his well known Tea Shop. I'm sure I don't have to elaborate what is needed to be done, correct?"

Ozai narrowed his eyes at the thought of his elder brother. Iroh. They had a long rivalry long before he was proclaimed Fire Lord, and for years the retired General had been a thorn at his side even after taking the title of Fire Lord away from him. It was unnerving to know that he still breathed. His lips twitched lightly in a sadistic smile. Soon, their long rivalry will come to a close. It was only a matter of time.

"Azula, you will be with me when we initiate the attack. We have an important reunion we must attend. Now, are there any objections?"

All was silent between them. They did give the occasional glance at one another knowing that what Aang presented was of pure insanity and suicidal. However, none did voice their opinion in fear of being retaliated in ways that exclude the use of words. The silence confirmed Aangs thoughts, and soon he began to close this short gathering with an unusual toast. Pulling out a tray that carried glasses of wine, he distributed the liquid among them all before presenting the glass in the center.

"If there are no objections, then may we settle this with a toast to good fortune and the likelihood of success we will revel in tomorrow."

Their glasses clinked with one another, and Aang was the first to sip the liquors sweet and alcoholic taste. Azula also enjoyed the flavor of the wine given. It was a fine choice to distribute on a night like this. It almost felt unimaginable that someone would dislike its taste - unless you had yet been exposed to the contents of alcohol. She pulled the glass away from her mouth and licked the remnants of the liquid from her lips. Her attention drew over to her father, oddly wondering what his opinion was. His face was a little sour once he pulled the glass away from his lips. Surely enough, she could only conclude that he did not enjoy it as she had, but why? The same expressions were presented on both Hama and Long Feng, for they too did not seem to enjoy it. Glancing at Aang once more, she could've sworn she witnessed a twinkle of satisfaction in his eyes, or perhaps it was just a figure her imagination. Her puzzlement remained unbroken, for she could only wonder what the Avatar could possibly be thinking. Perhaps a continuous plot to spread his influence after? She could only wonder.

Flashback End

Azula was brought out of her thoughts once she heard Aang rise out of his chair. She glanced at his concealed form that gazed elsewhere beyond what she could comprehend.

"It seems that Ozai has engaged Iroh in a duel for quite some time now, but I feel an odd presence of another caught up in this conflict."

"Is the Dai Li assisting my father?" Azula questioned.

Aang remained silence for a few short moments. "No, it is not." His eyes furrowed lightly. "Though it seems as if your father is losing."

"We should help him then." She persisted. "My father is of vital use in your schemes right? His death would only ruin it."

"You are somewhat right. The death of your father would hinder my plans for the time being, but it does not mean neither of you are replaceable." He smiled. "You seem to forget that I have no sympathy or remorse for what may happen. If you die, it just means that your usefulness had been all used up. I have no place for burdens among us."

Azula was in disbelief. He really held no compassion within him anymore. Any little bit that he held before had since been extinguished, and every action he has taken was solely for his personal gain. Nothing more to it. This insult that was given left her feeling somewhat thrown aside, that if she didn't meet his expectations she too would be cast aside of what little care he may give her. She didn't want that, no. She desired to be wanted, to be needed - but she didn't want her father to be killed because of it.

"Y-You said it yourself! If my father dies, this would only hinder your plans. So in someway, we do matter to you! Right?! If so, then you will help my father!" She practically demanded.

Aang was slightly caught off by the unwavering concern she had for Ozai. To even stand up to him after the numerous threats that she has received ever since their release from the Boiling Rock, there was such bravery and admirable devotion behind Azula's words. Or maybe it was just stupidity and a suicidal plea. Aang lightly smiled once more as a small chuckled escaped his lips.

"Oh, Azula." He sighed. "For some reason you keep surprising even me." He inched closer to her to the point where their bodies practically pressed against one another. "As much as it irritates me of how disobedient you could sometimes be, I kind of like it."

His gaze fell unto the sky once more as the sun was about to hit its peak. Noon was upon them any second now, and when it did come they'd begin their attack. He pulled away from Azula slightly, and the Fire Princess had felt her rapid heartbeat slow once he did so.

"If you insist for me to truly help your father..." His eyes settled upon Azula's. His pupils began to shine signifying his connection into the Avatar State. The sky around them darkened in three certain segments of the Capital, and with that came the initial attack of the invasion. "Then so be it."


Iroh had arrived at the abandoned Courtyard nearly half past eleven. His eyes were stern as he gazed around, looking for the man that had been stalking him earlier this morning. He expected the person to be waiting here for him, but where exactly? He was on the alert as he could only assume that this man would try get the drop on him. Hearing an uncontrollable cough from a shadowed segment of the Courtyard, the man had revealed his presence as he coughed into his sleeve as if he were diseased.

Iroh raised an eyebrow as he lightened his hostility. "You don't look so good. Are you alright?"

"Oh, quit with your pity!" The man continued to cough into his sleeve, yet the venom of his voice leaked with high toxicity.

Iroh's eyes slightly widened when he heard him speak. "That voice!" He thought. "What are you doing here, Ozai!" He demanded.

Ozai dropped his cloak, now revealing himself to his elder sibling for the first time in years. "It's been awhile, older brother." He arms widened, now exposing his figure in all his glory. However, his short moment of pride was interrupted by another coughing fit as he struggled to catch his breath.

"How did you escape from the Boiling Rock?" He paid no mind to the sickly mood Ozai was in. "What is your purpose for returning!"

Ozai's coughs fell into a rough chuckle. "You haven't changed a bit. Always questioning, always conversing through words, never taking action!"

"Actions without clarity can lead to ones downfall. Just like you have fallen from your throne. It was because of your arrogance and simple minded ideology that destroyed your reign of power!"

"Don't taunt me, old man!" Ozai growled.

"You should really look in the mirror then, Ozai. Because you're quite old yourself."

Fed up with being insulted, Ozai huffed before blasting two balls of fire from his fist, his actions were overwhelmed with the intent to kill. Iroh responded by building a wall of fire in front of him before pushing it forward, obliterating Ozai's initial attack. Ozai pierced his arms forward, digging his hands into the wall of flames before dispersing them to the side as he furiously marched ahead. Iroh shifted his right leg back before skidding it across the floor, its result was a line of fire crawling swiftly among the concrete floor in Ozai's direction. Ozai hopped over the flame before twirling his leg over his head and launched another wave of fire from the sky downwards. Iroh merely maneuvered gently away from its impacted area as he regained his stance. Once Ozai landed on the floor, his glare remained glued onto his sibling.

"I see, you're as sharp as ever." Ozai complimented. "For a frail old man like yourself, I'd suspect you to lose your touch by now."

Iroh gave a tired yawn. "I can't say the same for you. I mean, what are those flames anyways? They aren't even hot. You some kind of Water Bender now? Water Lord?" Iroh's smile brightened as the fuming expression of Ozai returned.

"Hot?" He growled as the flames picked up around him. "I'll show you how hot I can get!"

"Ew, no thank you. That'd be considered incest."

"Die!"

Ozai kicked his feet forward launching another wave of fire. He closed the distance swiftly between them until they were now locked in close quarters combat, They punched, kicked, and maneuvered themselves around one another all while fire would spouted from certain extensions of their limb as they tried to burn each other into a crisp. They kept at it for awhile, neither of them giving in or showing any signs of slowing down. No later, a fatal mistake was made by Iroh as he stepped a little too close into Ozai's personal footing causing the retired General to lose his balance. Ozai smirked at the opportunity and went for a fatal blow to the heart, but a wall made of Earth suddenly appeared and separated the two. Ozai pushed himself away, confused and angered at who interrupted his fulfillment of vengeance. Iroh on the other hand smiled at the perfect timing given.

"Your timing couldn't have been better, Tenzin." Iroh complimented.

"Grandpa, I was looking everywhere for you." He rushed over to his Grand Fathers side, staff in hand as he helped him to his feet. "Who is this guy?"

"Long story short, he's the bad guy."

"Say less, then." Tenzin took a stance next to Iroh as they eye'd Ozai.

"You surprise me, Iroh. I didn't think you'd be one to ask for assistance in your own affairs. There is no honor in your name." Ozai took this time to get a better look at Tenzin. He was young indeed, perhaps around the age of his children during his reign power. But he couldn't help but see some distinction in his features that was quite, familiar. "Who are you, boy."

"He is of no concern to you." Iroh injected himself between the conversation.

"You are no match for me, Iroh. So I'd much appreciate if you do not speak if I am not addressing you." His eyes turned back to Tenzin as his arrogance remained present. "Now, I ask again. Who are you!"

"My name is Tenzin. Fire Prince of this nation. But more specifically, I'm gonna be the guy who will kick your ass!"

Ozai remained silent as he thought about what he said. Not a moment later, he found himself laughing at his words. "F-Fire Prince?!" His words were spoken in hysterical disbelief. "You're the Fire Prince of this nation, yet you use the Earth? You have no right to such a title."

"We'll see about that!" Tenzin stomped on the floor causing a boulder to rise from below before smashing small segments of it to launch at Ozai.

Ozai's smile left as he found himself dodging the incoming rocks that threatened to squash him into a pancake. Coming to a halt he was nearly greeted face to face with another boulder - but with quick reaction Ozai had a pillar of fire impact its hard shell from below causing it to fly over him. His eye's then laid upon the younger opponent who was now speeding towards him on top of what he could only assume was air.

"What?" Ozai reeled his head back slightly at the unexpected sight. "Do my eyes deceive me? Did he just Earth Bend, or Air Bend?" Inhaling a lung full of air, Ozai released the built up heat by blowing a wave of fire at the approaching opponent.

Tenzin spun the staff swiftly ahead of him creating a shield of air that dispersed the flames that impacted it. However, by doing this he was forced to stop his rapid approach and release his glider made of air below his feet. He wasn't able to effectively multitask in this element just yet, for he was still relatively new into exploring its depth discovering possibilities. Iroh popped out from behind Tenzin and returned a lung full of fire himself. Ozai wasn't expecting such a daring assault from Iroh. Being caught off guard from two to one, he was forced to shield his frontal body as much as he could before becoming victim to the blast that swiped him off his feet. Ozai rose to his feet, his arms had burns lathered across his skin as he coped with its stinging pain.

"You got lucky there, Iroh. But these trick won't be so successful the second ti-"

Ozai fell onto his knees, his lungs were once again compressed as he was coughing up whatever that could be causing such agony. Iroh and Tenzin lightened off of their battle stances at the vulnerable sight of Ozai.

"You can not continue like this Ozai." Iroh extended his arms, signifying for him to give up. "Surrender, please. This fight would only prolong the inevitable. Come quietly and this will go smoother than what it could be."

Ozai gasped for air as soon as his lungs began to function again. Spitting onto the floor, a crimson color of blood greeted his eyes as it spread itself across the concrete. He was confused as to why he was feeling so under the weather without any signs of illness the night prior. Why was he like this? It shouldn't be this way. Iroh should be dead by now and that boy too if only he hadn't interrupted. His eye's widened into horror as he recalled the bitter and undesirable liquid the Avatar had them consume. What was in it? More importantly, what is it doing to him? It felt like something was alive in him. Like it was crawling within his organs and veins filling it with such heat that he thought he was being cooked from the inside.

"No, it can't be." Ozai huffed, his eyes looked ahead at the two who cautiously approached him. "To think I was foolish enough to fall for one of the simplest betrayals to ever exist." He fell into a crazed chuckle as his eyes now glanced up at the sky above him.

The Sun had reached his highest point signalling the beginning of their assault. The sky had begun to darken abnormally above him as opposed to the rest of it; and Ozai found himself laughing loudly. So this was his plan all along? He was to be a source of monstrous power that would catch the Fire Nation off guard for them to storm its inner walls? The one and only thing he could think of at the moment is what would become of him after the initial attack was completed - He could only wonder. Witnessing an orange colored lightning strike down directly above him, he screamed what he thought to be his last words.

"Damn you Avata-"

Iroh and Tenzin were forced to shield their eyes and faces as the lightning struck down on Ozai. The force from the impact blew them away as well as the surrounding buildings that stood nearby. The sound and sight had temporarily costed them two of their senses; and it was only after a few moments where they were able to slowly open their eyes to see what had happened.

Ozai had been left immobile, the lightning still striking him continuously as various portions of his body began to morph into an inhumane form. His arms burst into a fiery flame that began to quickly enlarge in size. The same had happened to all remaining portions of his body until Ozai had now towered over the majority of the buildings in the Fire Nation. His form was unrecognizable to all, for he now had the appearance of a flaming giant.

Screams of terror had begun to erupt from the entire city, and many Fire Soldiers had already fallen victim to the unsuspected Dai Li who had now made their presence known by causing havoc all around. On the opposite end of the Capital, a Rocky giant had emerged and began to destroy all in its paths. Buildings were considered ants to its enormous size, the only thing being bigger would be the Royal Palace that stood proudly in the center of it all. In the Fire Lords Harbor, things weren't going so well either. There was an enormous wave that was sucked into the spot the blue lightning struck, and what emerged from its light was another giant. This one covered from head to toe in water that presented a haunting, witchery appearance.

"W-What's happening?!" Tenzin shouted in terror as he witnessed the Flaming Giant stomp on buildings effortlessly.

Iroh was left speechless, he never expected such a thing to occur. Especially in a place considered to be his home land. Blinking the look of awe out of his face, he approached Tenzin and grasped his shoulders.

"Listen to me, Tenzin." His voice was serious. "We're under attack. I do not know why, but this is clearly an act of aggression. You must find your father and sister and ensure of their safety. Once you do, it's time you take responsibility as a prince and gather the troops for a counterattack."

"W-What of you, Grandpa?" His voice trembled with adrenaline. "You have to come with us."

"And I will, after I retrieve something of value in my Tea Shop."

"I'll come with-"

"No!" He rejected. "I'll be fine. Trust me, I've seen a lot in my life. I can handle myself."

"But-"

"Tenzin, just go!" Iroh persisted. The young prince still held a great deal of reluctance and didn't budge. "I said GO!"

Tenzin broke off into a sprint back to the Royal Palace. Grabbing his staff that laid idle on the ground after the blast, he proceeded to launch himself into the sky as he flew swiftly towards the palace. Watching his Grand Nephew soar across the sky, Iroh closed his eyes and sighed. Reopening them, he set off in the direction of his Tea Shop hoping that it hadn't yet been destroyed in the initial attack.

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End of Chapter 12

So sorry for the cliffhanger there fellas, I had already written almost another 1k words after this scene but I decided to move it all onto the now existing Chapter 13 recorded in my files. This felt like a good stopping point, and I really wanted to release this to you all. I do plan to make this a 3 chapter arc, the next should be its climatic fate for the Fire Nation itself. Do expect many things to unfold in the oncoming chapter. Now look - I do not beg, but I would love the feedback on what you all thought of this so far. It would really boost my thought process as well as my morale, even if it isn't always a positive feedback. Other than that, I'll see you all in the next chapter!

Ciao!

~TheLivingMyth