AN: God, writing fanfiction about Avatar, again am I? It's been too damn long, but I've been called back for better or for worse. Let's see if I can actually finish something for once.

General Song kept his head low as a furious Zuko stalked across the throne room.

"I'm trying to understand…" Zuko muttered, his teeth clenched, "Just how this could have happened, so please help me, Song."

"Of course, Firelord," Song responded automatically, "One of the Imperial Barracks was attacked yesterday in the middle of the night while most of the soldiers were sleeping. Several of them died in the fire that ensued before the rest could wake to control the blaze."

"Fire, Song, fire." Zuko repeated, his voice a mix of disbelief and rage. "Am I supposed to think that my own people did this?"

"In my opinion, yes." General Song bowed his head again, speaking rigidly polite. "I do not believe for a moment that this transition of power will be a smooth one especially in the upcoming weeks. There are still many of those who believe wholeheartedly in the supremacy of the Fire Nation above all others and remain loyal to Ozai."

"And according to you, the majority of these… rebels," Zuko spat the word out, "Are currently enlisted in the army."

"That is what it appears to be, my Lord. The sentries let a few of our own who did not actually belong to that barracks inside and almost immediately afterwards, the fire began."

"And we have no idea who they may be after all the confusion in the fire."

"That is correct."

Zuko stopped his pacing and retreated to his chair. Sinking into its warmth, he gave a huge sigh. "So what does this mean for the Fire Nation army?"

"It means you can no longer trust anyone. Including me, my Lord."

Zuko immediately waved the man off, "Don't give me that, Song. I've known you since you worked under my uncle back when I was still only a child. Both my uncle and I know you're a good man."

"I appreciate that sir, but that's exactly the sort of attitude that could get you killed."

"So you'd have me without bodyguards or any sleep, instead?"

"I didn't say that." Song said, stiffening immediately. "I meant merely that you should stick more closely with your…" The general paused for a moment, apparently uncomfortable with the word he was about to say, "Friends."

Zuko barked a laugh and looked up at the general with a smile. "Song, you are my friend."

The man blinked, obviously confused.

Zuko laughed again, "Don't worry about it, Song, I'll take your advice, but since I can't trust anyone else in the military, I'll be relying on you even more."

General Song relaxed, back into familiar territory. "Of course, Firelord, it's what I'm here for."

"Now I just have to figure out what to do with everyone else.