Note: I do not own avatar the last airbender, and sadly not Iroh either.
Iroh had many customers at the Jasmine Dragon. He spoke to all of them and grew to know some of his regulars very well. One of his favorites was a young lady who's name was Lily. Lily had been taking care of her elderly mother alone since her brother was fighting in the war. Two weeks ago her mother had died while asleep. Lily was holding up alright but hadn't been in for a while, so Iroh was glad to see her.
Lily! What can I get for you today dear? Your presence has been missed, would it be alright if I joined you for some tea? Of course Mr Mushi! What would you like? Lemon grass, please! Coming right up! Iroh came back with a steaming pot of tea. Is everything going smoothly? Yes. It's all been going well I suppose. Mother's funeral was a while ago so now I'm just going through her things. Doing a lot of paper work, getting everything in order. Good, just make sure you get proper time to mourn and rest alright? Alright! And don't be afraid to come to me if you need anything, Lee and I would be happy to help! Lily smirked when he said that. You would be happy! Iroh chuckled. My nephew will come around. How old is he now? Sixteen. Good he won't be drafted for a bit. No thankfully not. Have you heard from your brother? No but I sent word of Mother, something will arrive soon I've told my lady's maid to come find me if any mail comes while I'm away. Iroh nodded. Just then another woman came in. Lady Lily you've been sent a telegram. Thank you, you may go. Lily opened it quickly with a smile which dropped. Tears brimmed her eyes she dropped the paper and buried her face in her hands. What is it? Iroh put a hand on her shoulder. It's my brother, oh! What happened? Read it yourself! He picked it up and read.
We regret to inform you that commander Asnee has parishes in combat. His remains are destroyed but we send his pin which was found in his tent. The nation has lost a brave soldier and a strong commander this day and we send thanks and consolidation to his family.
Signed General Woe.
I'm so sorry my dear, this must be very hard for you. Now I'm the only one left in my family! My name will die with me! Oh Lily, don't despair. But now both of my brothers have died as well as my parents how can I not? You still have many years ahead of you! That won't do me much good. You can start your own family, there are many suitable young men who would adore you! No they wouldn't. Of course they would, your a beautiful, sweet, young lady. You don't understand! I can't have children, it's physically impossible for me! Lily continued to sob. He rubbed her back. Come I'll walk you home. No you need to do your work. It can wait. Taking care of my friend is far more important! They walked to her home slowly.
What am I supposed to do now Mushi? First you are going to have a nap, when you are done with that I'm going to have you over for dinner. Would you be alright with that? Yes. I don't want to be alone! Then you won't be! You can visit anytime And I'll have you over for dinner often. Okay. Iroh gave her a hug goodbye. It will be alright, he assured her and left.
Yes his customers had many problems big and small and Iroh was happy to help all of them. In anyway he could.
Lily went on to get married and adopted four children! It all ended so much better than she had ever imagined, because she didn't give up and she let her friends help.