Chapter 13: Invasion: Part 2 - Clash of Titans

Royal Palace

Nearly half an hour has progressed since the start of the invasion. Fire Lord Zuko had since ordered an all out counterattack to put an end to the aggression. Citizens that resided in this great city had flocked towards the Royal Palace, both seeking shelter and security during this catastrophe. Unlike some of the previous Fire Lords before him, Zuko had a kind and caring soul when it came to the well-being of his citizens. But even then, the amount of refugees continued to pile up into an overwhelming rate, especially for him. There didn't seem to hold an end because of this. Nearly a quarter of the cities population has sheltered inside the inner walls of the Royal Palace. A long line of citizens both young and old had formed just outside the royal boundaries. Its order was being maintained by what little soldiers they were able to pull. You'd think that during this great invasion, most would flee the cities boundaries in search for sanctuary elsewhere? However, a recent report was given stating that all pathways that had lead outside of the city had been destroyed and blocked by large amounts of rubble. They were trapped. Whatever military force that was at their immediate disposal has been called upon. Everything ranging from their destructive artillery consisting of Catapults and Tundra Tanks, to their aerial domination ranging to nearly two dozen Airships that have been stationed in the outskirts of the Capital City, and finally to their naval superiority of four warships that was currently headed to the Fire Lords Harbor.

The superior might of the Fire Nation was a scary thing to come across, especially for those who weren't exactly caught up with its modern day technology they had at their disposal. This small, yet intimidating military power they had at their immediate disposition approached their targets with ferocity. As soon as they were within range, an overwhelming amount of fire and flaming cannons were shot forth delivering destructive power against these elemental giants that threatened the survival of the Capital. There was a small stumble between these giants, however the oncoming hostility turned their attention to the Military Force that threatened to destroy them. The rock giant lifted his arm and swiped two of the Airships that gotten to close to him out of the sky. The fire giant wave his hand across the floor causing many who had attacked him to light ablaze and turn to ashes in a matter of seconds. In the distance the water giant had engulfed one of the Warships in the water before proceeding to crush its metal over its overwhelming pressure. Once it nearly bent in half, it sunk the ship into the bottom of the harbor.

Things weren't looking so good for the settlers of this great Nation. The majority of its forces laid scattered across the lands spreading good names in regards to the Fire Nation - oblivious to the fact that their home was currently being raided. Today certainly wasn't going to end on a bright note.

Zuko had quickly descended from the throne room, Kya following only inches behind as she had a concerning look plastered across her face.

"General..." He approached the only high ranking military official that was within the City at the time. "What's the status?"

"Fire Lord." The General bowed. "Things are not looking good. The citizens continue to flock into what little space we're able to provide, and what forces we have do not seem to even dwindle the massive titans continuous onslaught of destruction. We have tried to make contact with our main forces across the globe, but it seems like our transmissions aren't reaching them. We think these invaders may have overrun and stopped all communications from our radio tower."

Zukos eye's narrowed as he placed his thumb against his chin in thought. This wasn't good, not at all. Being nominated as Fire Lord through birth right, he held the ultimate responsibility of protecting those under his rule; and he be damned if they all were to suffer for his failure. His gaze fell unto the massive line that continued to pour into the massive courtyard. He made eye contact with the saddened eyes of many. Some were covered in ashes, while others in blood. It was truly a depressing sight to witness, and he would not tolerate such a sight, especially for his people.

"We must get our signals back online, that is our top priority. We need the rest of our military might to assist us."

"I wholeheartedly agree with you Fire Lord, but we simply do not have the manpower to launch such a critical mission. 90% of the forces we have are at the front lines keeping those giants at bay from reaching us."

"You don't have to worry about that. I'll be the one leading this mission, prepare me a small squad of our most elites to accompany me on this."

"My Lord, we all do admire your willingness to fight alongside us. But you can't disregard the importance you hold. You are the Fire Lord. You can not put yourself in danger so carelessly where the likeliness of death would be unpredictable. Your influence will be needed to maintain order after this comes to a closure."

"Who said I'm going to be the one dying? Open the palace doors, shelter as many as you can inside, and someone bring me my armor."

Kya stood alongside her father, her concern was clear. "Father, are you sure about this?"

"Kya, there comes a time when a leader must partake in battle just as much as those under him do. I won't stand by and watch my people be slaughtered" His gaze fell upon the giants that continued to destroy the city he's grown up in. The sight boiled his blood with fury as the screams were still clearly heard from across the city.

"I'll come with you!" She stepped forward and took her place beside him.

"No!" He refused. "No, you will stay here and keep our people safe."

"But, Dad!"

"That's final, Kya."

Two of the Royal Guards rushed over to Zuko before proceeding to equip him in a customized light, yet sturdy armor that was fit to temporarily protect him from all of the elements depending on its severity. It was similar to the garments he wore when he was an exiled prince, the only difference being that they were more defined in suite for a Fire Lord instead of a prince. He adjusted his arm guards and ensured that they stay fastened against his clothes. His eyes fell unto his daughter once more, and they saddened once he saw her dejected look.

"Hey, now." He smiled as he placed an arm on her shoulder. "Don't think I'm only doing this for your safety Kya. I know that you are more than a capable warrior that can protect herself."

"It's not that." Her voice trembled. "It's just, what if something happens to you and I'm not there to help."

She rested her cheeks against his armored chest plate. They fell into an embrace, and Zuko could only respond with a loving embrace of his own. After a short period, he gently pushed her away causing her to look back at him

"Nothings going to happen to me." He smiled. "I mean like, I'm the freaking Fire Lord for crying out loud. You know I won't die that easily."

Her saddened gaze fell into a small giggle, yet her concern was still clear "True, I guess you are right. But still, what if something does."

"Kya, there is more to this than a sense of patriotism for your home. The actions I partake in now will only be a partial outcome of our future. If something were to happen to me, it just means that my time has come. I don't want you meeting the same fate I will if it does, because somebody has to look out for these people in my place. I believe it should be you who will lead our home into a brighter future. Tenzin is an amazing Prince as he is a Bender, however I see that his self interest revolves around himself at this time, not for our people. You have that compassion and love that Tenzin does not, so I know it should be you who will be my successor."

"...Father." She was somewhat speechless by his declaration. However, it did give her a sense of responsibility and usefulness that she needed at this time. "I-I'll make sure I keep our people safe!"

Zuko chuckled before ruffling her hair a little. "That's my strong Princess. I leave the rest to you until my return."

A small squad of his most elite Benders were formed up just outside of the Royal Walls waiting for their Fire Lord that the General had most recently informed them of his participation in battle. Stepping away, Fire Lord and Fire Princess, Father and Daughter - gazed at each other for one final brief moment before diverting his attention away. I love you - He does not such a word. For at this moment, their was no room for softness. No, their actions would tell their words. He exited safe grounds and headed towards the front lines where the heat of battle lay imminent. He marched away, knowing that this would be the last time he'd see her face.

For awhile that is...


"N-No, please don't. I beg y-hurk"

The neck of a Fire Soldier had been twisted in an angle that rendered it fatal before being released from the grasp of the man responsible. Turning towards the Dai Li who had regrouped with him after the initial attack was launched, he was more than pleased to see them finishing up dispatching what remaining reinforcements that were sent to assist the front lines in their battle against the monsters he's created. Azula had been amazed by his small display in power, yet she still remained oblivious as to the fate of her father. It made Aang wonder, should he tell her himself? Or should he wait for her to find out on her own. It would be a thrilling sight to witness the horror of ones eyes once they piece the dreadful puzzle together. However, there was a fact that still remained unknown even to him. If Ozai, Long Feng, and Hama had a strong enough will - then his little transformation shouldn't have killed or wiped away all rational thinking. No, they should still be in there. The question is, will they be able to revert back to their normal selves? Who knows.

Azula had stood alongside him throughout this entire mess. He couldn't conclude what she may be thinking of him underneath her cloak, especially after witnessing first hand of the slaughter he put these citizens through. These people who she grew up with since the day of her birth, and who had certainly forgotten her existence at some point in time. Her actions didn't show any hesitancy when killing those around her, so he could only conclude that she held no remorse for his shunning actions. His eyes settled upon the Royal Palace in the distance, throughout his time venturing both in the living and spirit realm, he's come to learn that Katara had a tomb dedicated to her passing somewhere within the Royal vicinities. His arm rested upon the Book he had taken from Wan Shi Tong's Library, it remained hidden beneath his garments. Soon - very soon he would make this right. All the sacrifices and murderous deeds he's forced himself to commit, it would all be worth it when she returns to his side.

"We're gaining ground, and quickly too." Azula commented.

Aang didn't respond to her words, instead his eyes continued to focus on the Royal Palace. There was a puzzled feeling he couldn't quite understand. It felt familiar, and its energy made him somewhat ominous of its presence. He didn't know why, but he knew he had to go there. Not just because Katara's remains were buried within its vicinity, but also to put an end to whatever it was that made him feel so cautious. A Dai Li agent approached from the smoky atmosphere that was in the direction of the Palace. As he approached Aang, he fell onto one knee as a sign of respect and fear.

"My Lord, there has been some complications. We are losing our control over the Radio Tower that links to the rest of the Fire Nations Armada and Ground Forces. If we don't get immediate assistance we won't be able to defend it."

Aang glared down at the man that informed him of the news. The only way this invasion would become a success is if there was no interference with the Fire Nations massive force. If word were to spread about before their progress in conquering this land, they would then have to make a hasty retreat. Otherwise it would only be a matter of hours until the sky would turn into an overwhelming shade of red as an endless wave of fire rained upon them, all while they'd have to battle additional forces from all angles. They would be surrounded if this were to occur. His annoyance spiked greatly at the unpleasant thought of having to deal with so many soldiers, yet his bones tingled in a thrilling sense at having to unleash his power down on endless targets. With a simple motion of his wrist, he lifted the Dai Li who had informed him of this situation and crushed his throat without another thought.

Azula was taken aback by this gesture. She knew Aang showed no remorse towards anyone, much less those he controlled under his wing. But to kill an informant after relaying a message sent by another person? Just, why?

"Was - Was that really necessary?"

"You will come to learn that I do not shed kindness down on those who fail me."

Azula watched as Aang began to step off once more. His next destination would be to refortify their dominance over the tower that allowed the Fire Nation to communicate through the vast terrains the world held. Luckily, the location of this destination was in the same direction as the Royal Palace. Only time would tell if he'd make it in time to stop them before they were able to succeed. Azula followed shortly after, her desire to remain useful to Aang began to spike to another level beyond what she currently knew.


A Dai Li agent stumbled to the ground after being smashed in the gut with an earth pillar. He made an attempt to stand, but before he recover fully his limbs were suddenly engulfed in a layer of earth leaving all attempts of hostility to remain immobile. The Dai Li pulled and jerked roughly hoping to break free, but the sturdiness of the Earth proved to be too much as his attempts remained futile

"That should be the last of them."

"Good work, Toph."

Toph stretched her limbs until a satisfying pop was felt. Her attention fell unto Sokka who had praised her work only moments ago. Ever since they landed back into Fire Nation territory, everything seemed to be going as normal. Nothing was out of the ordinary, and all seemed to flow as it always had. So imagine their shock when they suddenly witnessed three sparks of lightning ignite the beginning of a battle for survival among all of the Fire Nations natives way of life. It wasn't what they, or anyone for that matter were expecting to be caught up in. Now, being forced into such a conflict - the two partook in this battle in hopes of defending as many innocent bystanders as they possibly can - and hoping that this bloodshed would cease soon.

Toph was a ferocious opponent to come across. All of her enemies had been but simple amateurs when compared to her skill and expertise. She took care of them all like it was a daily hobby. Sokka had been a great help when engaging the Dai Li as well. She trusted him to watch her back when she fought off a few, and he did so almost effortlessly when it came to it. He wasn't a bender of any sorts, however his combat has sharpened to the point where he could be considered inhuman to many of our normal physical capabilities. Cutting rock was almost like butter to him at this point, yet all other elements proved to be more of a challenge to him unlike the solid element of Earth.

"Just what do you think is going on here." Toph could feel the damage this battle has caused the city. All over laid bodies of Dai Li, Fire Nation Soldiers, and citizens of the city alike. "Why is the Earth Kingdom attacking the Fire Nation? Why is Earth King Kuei allowing this?"

"Maybe he's not." Sokka interjected. "I mean like, why would Earth King Kuei have those things at his disposition." He pointed at the elemental giants that laid havoc on the city. "No, I think there's more to this than a simple invasion. The real question is, who's the one leading it? And why?"

The sound of quickened steps headed towards their direction caused the two to tense at the possibility at having to engage more enemy Dai Li. Whatever beef that may be getting settled between the two kingdoms was irrelevant to them, for Toph and Sokka knew they had to find and ensure the safety of Zuko, Kya, and Tenzin by any means. It was their main concern of all who resided here. Through the thick layer of smoke, Zuko had appeared along with a handful of his elites who had protectively stood in front of him at the sight of Toph and Sokka.

"Zuko!" Sokka cried with a smile.

Toph smiled as well after hearing Sokka confirm the presence she felt. "Zuko." She repeated shortly after he did.

"Toph, Sokka!" He pushed passed his elites once they determined the two as friendlies. "You have no idea how happy I am to see you two here. I hate to break this to you, but we're in the middle of something big. So whatever thoughts you have will have to wait."

Sokka crossed his arms. "Well, we actually came to inform you about some of the findings we managed to uncover about the slaughter back on Kyoshi. However, after witnessing all this come into play, I'm sure it can wait for the time being."

Zuko turned to Toph as if searching for her confirmation. Her nodding was all he needed to know that Sokka was indeed telling the truth. "I see." He sighed. "Well, I'm glad you two are alright." His attention then turned towards the building behind them. "And it seemed like you two cleared out the Radio Tower only moments before we arrived. Thank you for the unlikely assistance."

"Oh, so that's what this place is." Sokka scratched his head. "It looked a little weird compared to all of the other buildings, but that actually narrows its purpose down. What do you think is going on Zuko?"

Without addressing his question, Zuko squeezed passed the two. "We can't speak here. The streets are littered with dangers while enemy forces linger in the shadows. Lets get inside where it's safe, I'll explain better once we have."

The two followed shortly without another word. They were more than ready to get some answers to this mess. Heading inside the structure, most of his forces took positions guarding the perimeters of the building to ensure the Fire Lords safety to the best of their training. Once inside, the two settled into a confined room that held some of the Fire Nations most advanced technologies up to date. Their radio systems.

"Oh, no."

Zukos heart nearly dropped at the condition the machinery was in. All of it seemed to lay in ruins as many pieces were scattered across the room. What remaining hope he held on to seem to flicker out of his eyes as realization began to settle in. They were outsmarted, and now no one would hear their request to aid them in this time of need.

"I don't like the meaning of your words." Sokka voiced. "So what now?"

"Now... we pray."

"Oh don't give me that." Toph snarled. "For all of my life I've overcome many powerful opponents without the help of some god; and trust me when I say this, but I won't be starting now." She stomped towards him before glaring inches from his face. "And if you even had an ounce of self respect, you sure as hell shouldn't succumb into this pitiful state. You always seem to forget who you are during these disastrous moment, Zuko. You are the Fire Lord! Use it's title and unite your people against these invaders. It's the only chance we have now!"

Zuko remained silent, the words that Toph practically jammed down his throat gave him much to think about, but now was not the time for thinking. No, it was time for action.

"You're right." He regained his composure as his eyes its fueled with determination that Toph hadn't seen in years. "One way or another, we will survive. I will make sure of it. Thank you, Toph."

She smirked lightly. "Don't mention it hothead."

The tough love between them was enough to put everyone nearby in high spirits. A time of crisis must have some time of recollection to go alongside it, and that's what they all needed to hear. To reminisce themselves within the struggles they've endured from childhood to now. Remember who you are. Fire Lord Zuko, ruler of the Fire Nation and considered to be the strongest Fire Bender in his time. If only this feeling could last forever, however like most good things in life, they tend to fall short in time.

"Watch out!"

"Aaugh!"

The surprised screams a few of Zuko's elites was heard from outside the building. All inside had grown into a state of alert as they mentally prepared for the heat of battle. They all rushed out of the building intending face these invaders head on, but were left confused when no enemy presence was detected. Silence remained the number one action between them as they continued to observe their surroundings. Sokka had his blade partially unsheathed and ready for a quick defense without another moments notice. A small trickle of an unknown liquid fell in the corner of his eyes causing him to look down. There - a few strands of crimson blood was the color that greeted his eyes. Another few drops fell onto the blade, and Sokka found himself slowly looking above where they all stood. A line of soldiers were lined up one by one as they were impaled through the abdomen like a kebab ready to be grilled. One of the soldiers that was impaled terrifyingly looked down at those who now noticed his disturbing condition. His body spasm'd lightly under the pain, and his arms shook as he reached for those that watched.

"P-Please, I don't wanna die." He begged. "I-I have a family, I have to-"

Another piece of metal shot through the back of his head and out of its mouth killing him instantly. They all jerked lightly at the unexpected execution, and their stomachs further quenched when hearing the disturbing sound of flesh slowly extract itself from the corpses and back to its originator. It remained covered in blood as it morphed back into a hand. Now, they all were finally able to see the person responsible for such a gruesome action. His identity remained unknown due to his concealing garments over his face, however something told Zuko that this man was responsible for all of this damage, and now he knew who he exactly had to bring down.

"You!" The man snarled under his breath. His breathing grew animalistic as the noticeable venom seeped through his teeth. This anger, this intent to kill radiated off him so strongly that it somewhat concerned them all. "You, you, YOU!"

"Zuko, have you pissed anyone off lately?" Sokka whispered lightly.

"No, I haven't. I don't even know who this guys is, but something tells me he is the one orchestrating this invasion."

Toph's concentration was somewhat interrupted by this rabid and agonizing sensation this man unleashed. It was extremely loud to the point where her connection to the earths vibrations couldn't properly manifest in her thoughts anymore. This feeling, this fear, it's been so long since she felt such an emotion, and for some odd reason she could make out its foreign yet distinguished familiarity within it. She's encountered this person before, but where?

"Kill them!" He screamed. "Kill them all!"

Dozens upon dozens of Dai Li Agents emerged from the shadows taking them all by surprise. They closed in quickly, and with no time to think of a plan, they as well with what remaining forces that still breathed faced them head on. The two sides engaged in combat, both exchanging fire and earth as they fought their hardest to be rid of the other.

"Azula."

Azula remained by Aangs side as she witnessed the scenery unfold. Her confusion had skyrocketed through the roof when hearing the orders Aang had given. These people who she'd thought would be considered his allies in all of this. It may have been years since she's seen the world, but they were his companions - were they not? Hearing the Avatar call her name drew her thoughts with more attentiveness than she ever displayed. The look in Aangs eyes said it all to her, and she knew of his immediate desire.

"Bring me his head."


Tenzin had just landed in front of the palace after being separated by Iroh only moments ago. He would've arrived sooner if he could, but these invaders have proven to be more in control than he initially thought. Traveling through air was dangerous. After being nearly pummeled out of the sky by continuous barrages of boulders, he descended onto the ground and sprinted through the chaotic streets of the Capital City until he was close enough to take flight without any hostility.

He was surprised to see such a large amount of citizens be allowed through the walls that separated the rest from royalty. He cared dearly for what was currently happening for those of his homeland, but his concern was not entirely directed towards them at the time. It was to his sister, Kya. He spotted her tending towards those who had seemed to lose all hope by providing some sort of comfort while speaking soothing words that things will turn around for them.

"Kya." He quickened towards her.

Kya turned and sighed in relief at seeing Tenzin safe and unharmed. "Tenzin." She embraced her brother in a hug, to which he responded with one of his own. "Thank god, you are okay."

"I'm happy you are too, sister." He smiled. "Where's father? I need to speak to him."

"He already left some time ago." She answered. "He's taking part in this battle just as much as any other soldier has."

"And you didn't go with him?!" He sounded almost surprised.

"I wanted to, I really did." She scuffled her fingers lightly together after recalling the words her father had said. "But, my place is here. To ensure our people stay safe."

"Kya, the only way they'll stay safe is if we're out there! Fighting for them!"

"I know." She agreed. "Trust me, I know. It-It's just, father... he..." Her words were caught in her throat as she didn't know what to say.

Tenzin stepped away slightly as a look of realization fell upon him. "No..." A sense of disbelief filled his voice. As much as he hated his Step Father, to do something as brash as this wasn't like him. At least, it wasn't like the Step Father he grew up knowing. "No, you can't be serious Kya. He-He'll die out there if we-" Snarling at this information, he turned away. "Which way." He glanced back at her.

"I don't-"

"Which way did that bastard go!" He raised his voice.

"...To the Radio Tower." She answered. That was the only thing she was able to say before seeing her brother depart once more. She knew where he was headed, and there was an undying temptation to follow her brother and chase after her father as well. Maybe she will, if the urge proved to be too much that is.

"Please, be safe."


The battle raged on as both sides continue to struggle for dominance over the other. Zuko had just finished blasting a Dai Li into a building before sidestepping away from an oncoming attack. Neither side seemed to be giving in at this rate, but a noticeable decline of what remaining forces Zuko had was seen by all. They had just lost another four over the span of ten minutes, and now there was hardly any among them to be considered a small fighting force.

A shining blue light came hurling towards him from the corner of his eye, and reacting quickly he shot his fist forward at the incoming attack as his flames collided with that of the opposite color. His eye's narrowed at its enchanting blue flames, for he knew of only one person who was capable of such a flame.

"Hello Zuzu, it's so good to see you again."

"Azula." He responded while facing the smiling woman who revealed her identity under her clothing. "I should've known you were a part of this. Why are you here, and where is Father? I know you two escaped Boiling Rock sometime back."

"Now is that a way to treat your sister? After nearly twenty years of isolation, excluding those pathetic excused you call a visit while I was confined through chains, this is how you treat me? I should be offended."

"You may have escaped Azula, but I assure you I am more powerful than when we last battled. So please, set this anger aside and tell me why you are here?"

Her smile twitched into one of annoyance. "If you're so keen on finding out, then let me show you!"

She twisted and shot her fist forward unleashing a giant continuous flame that poured out of her palm. Zuko responded in the same manner and watched as their flames collid before entwining with another creating a beautiful yet dangerous combination of blue and orange. The flames dispersed caused many within the vicinity to give the two Fire Benders some room as to not be caught up in the cross fire.

"Is that Azula?" Sokka spoke after sliding to a stop a good distance away from the heat. Toph had landed right next to him as she as well didn't expect such an appearance.

"It certainly feels like her." She replied. "I thought she was locked up."

Azula closed the distance between herself and Zuko swiftly, she twisted and kicked the air multiple times sending flame after flame at soaring at great speed. Zuko thrust his palm forth at each flame Azula made and dispersed them before it was able to make impact. He then shot palm his forward again sending another flame raging ahead. Azula propelled herself forward and used her fire as an outer shell to deflect Zuko's attack, once emerging through the orange flames she flipped forward and used her right leg to form a whip of fire that crashed from above. Zuko widened his stance and shot his arms to opposite ends of his body causing the blue fire to disperse without so much a scratch.

"Stop blocking will you." Azula snarled while entrapping Zuko in a circle of blue fire. "No one will help you this time!"

"I don't need help in order to bring you down."

"Don't you dare mock me!"

Once cornering him within her flames, she snapped both arms in front of her as another burst of fire came soaring out. There was no retaliation to her attack. Her lips morphed into a smile as she saw the blue fire burst upon impact. A direct hit. A wave of satisfaction overwhelmed her as a satisfying thought of being rid of an annoyance to her settled in.

She looked back towards Aang hoping to see some sort of approval from him, yet his expression remained unchanging since the beginning when he tasked her to execute her brother. Confusion filled her bones as to why, why didn't he express an ounce of gratitude? Turning towards Zuko, her once bone chilling satisfaction was squashed when witnessing a thin yet powerful layer of fire encompass Zuko in a sphere like structure. Her blue flames had been sucked into his orange with no resilience. Zuko glared into her eyes as he pointed two fingers towards her, and then with incredible speed a thin line of fire traveled at a speed faster than she's ever witnessed before. She was barely able to put up a hasty block as their was no time for her to dodge its attack. She skidded and stumbled onto the floor as the stinging burn remained irritating against her skin.

"Give up, Azula." Zuko warned. "You can not defeat me as you are now, and with my friends by my side you surely will not defeat us!"

She made an attempt to stand, but Toph had already trapped her feet within the earth. She tried to burst the rock from her feet with her fire, but they were too engulfed only seconds later.

"NO!" She screamed "No, not again! I won't be humiliated again!" She fell into a desperate attempt to break free just as she had years ago.

Her eye's locked onto Aang, and a pleading gaze begged for his assistance. She didn't want to be ignored as she was last time. No, she needed someone to be there for her. She needed someone to love him just as that girl loved Zuko so long ago. She needed him. She need the Avatar, her Avatar. She felt the rock loosen against her arms and legs until they crumbled away into nothingness.

"Thank you." She thought as her sense of purpose began to shine once more. "Thank you, Aang. I-I won't let you down."

"But you already have, Azula."

Her stomach dropped as she heard his voice next to her. His gaze pierced through the back of her head while an aroma of disappointment leaked off like radiation. Such a statement had broken her spirit.

"You let me down, just as many had before you. But do not worry, I won't discard you like I have your father. You have so much more purpose that has yet to be fulfilled. I won't throw away such talent so carelessly. I promise you will not be forgotten if you but remain my loyal servant."

"F-Father?" She croaked. "Where's father?"

"Don't worry, my darling Fire Princess." He assisted her to her feet. "He's closer than you think. In fact, he's right above us."

On cue, a flaming leg stomped onto the ground where Zuko once stood causing all to flee from its impacted area. The ground shook violently around them, and Azula found herself slowly looking up at the giant flaming monster that stared where Zuko and the rest of his companions stood.

"Z-uu-koo"

The flaming giant groaned the name of the person it was after. Behind it, the rock giant had approached only inches from its fellow giant as it glared down at the same spot the other gazed upon.

"C-ru-sh"

"Father?" The disbelief in her tone was noticeable as she gazed at the giant above. "Is that, really you?"

"What the heck!" Toph had prepared for a counterattack. "How did this big lump of rock sneak up on me?!"

She shifted the Earth Plates just under the two giants causing them to stumble and lose balance before toppling to the floor. Toph then shot four fingers from both hands - four large pillars from either sides spiked from the ground before smashing against the giants holding them down. There was a struggle to rise at first, but Toph forced the two down once more during this attempt.

"These guys are tougher than they look." Her voice strained with concern.

Zuko had finished firing his own waves of fire at the giants before agreeing with Toph. "You're right, nothing we throw seems to be working."

"What are we going to do?" Sokka's worry began to show. "If we can't stop these things, we're all as good as dead."

"My oh my, this day is just full of surprises."

A new voice was heard causing all who heard to face the newcomer.

"Uncle!" Zuko smiled. "You're alive. Why are you here, I thought you would've retreated to the palace with the others?"

"And miss out on all the fun?" Iroh scoffed. "I think not." He approached Zuko before proceeding to dig into his sleeve. "Here, I had a spare hidden away in case we needed one."

Zuko took the object that was handed and was surprised to see a miniature version of the Radio's they used to communicate. It wasn't as strong as the one's they had, but it did reach a good distance to be able to contact someone.

"You had an extra one?" Zuko gazed back at Iroh after confirming the object. "Is-Is anyone coming?"

Iroh nodded. "A fleet is on their way now."

Zuko smiled at the news. "That means we're saved." He sighed. 'We just have to hold off until their arrival." His joy was cut short by the neutrality Iroh continued to express. "What is it?"

"Zuko, our main forces will not arrive on time." He finally answered.

"What do you mean?"

A dejected sigh escaped the elder mans lips. "It's exactly as I said. The Fire Nation, our home - at the rate our forces are declining, there won't be anyone left to save. We will all die by sunset. The small fleet that should be here soon isn't enough to hold off against the might these invaders were able to get a grasp on. I already informed them that when they do arrive, their main priority is to evacuate as many as they possibly can. If we try to defend this place, we will all perish in the process. We... we have to abandon the Fire Nation."

"But, this is our home Uncle!" He protested. "We can't just leave it to fall into ruins."

"No Zuko, this place is not our home. Those people you took an oath in protecting is what makes your home. Your allegiance is to them, not this soil we stand upon. Protect them, Zuko. Protect our people." He reached into his robes once more and handed another item. "I've never thought that this day would come, but I want you to have this." He handed him a book. "It's an autobiography I wrote back in my younger days. Read it when this is all over, I'm sure you will understand what you will have to do."

A rumbling began to emit through the bones of them all as the two giants began to rise once again.

"I-I can't hold them for much longer." Toph groaned as beads of sweat poured down her cheek.

Iroh pushed passed his nephew as he approached the two giants. His eyes momentarily landed on the pitiful state of Azula who continued to watch in silence at the flaming giant that was said to be her father. His eyes then traveled up towards the man that stood next to her, his identity remained unknown to him, but he remained wary of his presence. He was powerful, without a doubt - Iroh knew that this man was trouble. But now, he wasn't his main concern. Coming to a stop, he continued to watch as the two giants continued to shatter through Toph's defense while rising slowly.

"We're with you, Uncle." Zuko stood next to him as they eye'd the beast before them.

"No, I will stall them here. You must begin evacuating the citizens."

A horrified look fell on his face. "Don't tell me you plan to fight them all alone? That's suicide. Besides, we're trapped Uncle. We can't leave the city."

Iroh was about to respond, but another voice beat him before he could say anything.

"Grandpa?!"

Iroh turned to see Tenzin fly down and settle next to Sokka. The relief in his eyes was clear after seeing that Iroh was indeed alright. Iroh smiled at the young prince. How he's grown and matured long passed childhood. But he hasn't entirely matured yet, and he still has a long way to go until he too would fulfill the destiny Iroh was now well aware of.

"Don't worry about me Zuko, I will find a way. Just as I know you will. You always have. Now-" His gaze became stern. "No one has witnessed this technique in person, for Ran and Shaw had taught me this move to be used only in the direst of situations. But now, after being declared their best pupil of all to discover their existence - you will understand why I was nicknamed the Dragon of the West."

Iroh clasped his arms together as an overwhelming amount of flames to piled under his feet. The air heated around him greatly, and he suddenly began to rise from the ground while carried by the flames that grew dense within a fraction of a second. Its scale continued to grow larger and larger until he now stood at the same height the two giants were projected to be in. From atop of the beast he's created emerged a two headed flaming dragon that roared with life before attacking the giants that threatened to end them.

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End of Chapter 13

Sorry for the wait, if ya'll haven't noticed I did some fan art of my own in regards to this story. The characters go from left to right, Tenzin, Aang (obviously) and Kya. I hope this gives some of you insight as to how these characters look, especially Tenzin since he never shaved his head due to not learning the proper Air Monks way of life like in Canon. Please let me know your thoughts, questions, or concerns and I will see you all in the next chapter!

Ciao

~TheLivingMyth