I sat among the branches of the cherry trees, silently listening for any change in nature's sounds. The wind was beginning to pick up, rustling the pink blossoms and dark leaves that surrounded me. The flowers' faint scent drifted around me, and I closed my eyes, breathing deeply. It was not often that I was assigned to such a mission, outside the cities. Though the sky was starless, the warm night was comforting. This was where ninjas were truly at home: in nature.
A twig snapped nearby, interrupting my thoughts. Someone was walking along the path, slowly and deliberately. It was Zuko's uncle, Iroh. He reached into the branches of a nearby tree and plucked a delicate pink blossom from its branches, deeply inhaling its scent.
"The cherry trees are so beautiful this time of year," he said quietly, seeming to talk to himself. "It is a shame Zuko does not wish to join me." He continued walking, but stopped at the tree I was hiding in. I silently drew three shuriken. I hoped I would not have to use them, but ninjas don't survive by taking chances.
"Uncle!" called another voice. Zuko appeared, and I tensed. This made my task much more difficult. I was not ordered to kill both of them, only the prince. I would be punished if I killed without necessity.
"We need to go. The Avatar has been spotted."
"Are you certain you do not wish to help me gather cherry leaves? They make a fantastic tea," the old man said, holding the cloudlike pink blossom in one palm and offering it to Zuko. The young prince smacked it out of his uncle's hand angrily, and I tensed. Such a show of disrespect would not be tolerated were he a ninja.
"We don't have time for that! The Avatar could be escaping! We have to go. Now." Iroh sighed, plucking several leaves from a few trees. Zuko waited impatiently, watching as his uncle walked back along the path. He was alone now, and would not be for long. I fanned the shuriken out in one hand and leapt from the tree like a cougar hunting its prey. This was the end for him.
Something struck me in the side of the head. I landed on the ground half-conscious, and Zuko turned instantly, hands glowing with fire. I saw a blunt arrow lying next to me, feeling the cold trickle of blood on the side of my face. 'I'm going to die here,' I thought, consciousness slipping away. 'He's going to kill me.' I closed my eyes, feeling the heat of fire growing closer as I blacked out completely. I had failed.