Water, Earth, Fire, Air.

Despite his young age, he holds a prestigious position in the Fire Nation's military. But his intentions remain shrouded in secrecy. Some whisper that he's on a quest to capture the Avatar, but his actions don't quite match his rumors. In the last episode, he didn't seem to make much effort to capture the Avatar himself. Instead, he let others do the work for him. There were even moments when he allowed the Avatar to escape, almost as if it was all part of some grand plan.

What is Lixin truly after?

Perhaps it's not about being quick to act, but rather, taking the time to warm up. One might prefer to observe and assess the situation before making any moves, it doesn't necessarily mean that they're slow to react. He may be cautious and want to ensure he have a better understanding of the circumstances before formulating a plan. Maybe he is just taking his time to properly prepare and analyze the situation. There's no need to rush.

Maybe he's not as idiotic as he seems. Maybe he has hidden talents, ones that he's unaware of himself. Could he be an "idiot savant", someone who, despite his limited cognitive abilities, possesses some remarkable skills in other areas? It is a paradox in itself. Perhaps he's the one who struggles with basic concepts and social nuances, but can play a mean tune on the guqin, or solve complex mathematical equations in his head. A man who struggles to communicate and express himself, but can create beautiful works of art or compose moving symphonies.

In the end, it really doesn't matter. The journey is going to take just as long, no matter how fast they go. All that matters is the destination, and that they get there safely. And who knows, maybe they'll have some awesome stories to tell when they finally arrive.

But for now, they're just stuck in the middle of nowhere with some whiners.

Lixin stood alone in the middle of the ship, basking in the solitude of the evening. The gentle sound of waves lapping against the hull added a soothing rhythm to the scene. In his hands, he had a steaming cup of tea, the aromatic fragrance wafting up into the cool sunset, and fresh air. With each sip, he savored the rich flavor, feeling a sense of comfort wash over him. This was the perfect moment to sit back, unwind, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the vibrance orange.

Suddenly, someone appears in front of him, breaking his moment of tranquility, standing before him, announcing his name with a touch of formality. "General Lixin, is it?"

Lixin takes a moment to respond, setting his cup down, taking a moment to acknowledge the person's question before replying in a calm yet dignified manner.

"It is indeed what you have just said," he replied, turning his attention to the person, he inquired, "Lieutenant Jee, pray tell, what brings you here to my humble presence?"

Jee was initially hesitant to ask the question, struggling to find the right words.

"I don't mean to offend you," he began, his voice tentative. "But I heard that you are a general because of your incredible abilities and skills." He paused, unsure of how to continue. "Is that true? What I'm trying to imply is that... you didn't reach that position through any relationship, political machinations, affairs within the military hierarchy or work your way up to high rank, right?"

He leaned forward, awaiting a response.

"It is okay, you didn't offend me." Lixin reassured him.

He was rubbing his chin, deep in thought, he seemed to be pondering something profoundly, he was trying to figure out the best way to phrase what he was going to say next.

He sigh before speaking up. "Everybody seems to think I've arrived here through some convoluted route, jumping through hoops and traversing difficult terrain, going through here or going through there — in order to get to the very place where I stand now."

The young general sniffles, sipping his tea, "But that's not the full story, not at all."

What did he really mean by this?

"The truth is that I arrived at this location in a much more complex manner than anyone could have expected, it is not that simple." He was talking as if he was withholding a secret that went beyond the ordinary explanations.

Jee furrowed his eyebrows in confusion as he replied to Lixin's statement in disbelief.

"Complex? Not that simple? I see... hmm?" he echoed, seeking clarification.

Before he could delve deeper into clarification, the fireplace in front of them flared up. Boiled up the kettle and messed up the General's tea... Lixin sweatdropped at the sight, sensing the potential wrath of a seething firebender in the distance. They both knew it was Zuko's anger, surprisingly his radiated emotion reached this fireplace, that prince would be the least of their worries.

"That's not good... Seriously..." The two of them exchange a brief glance, both silently acknowledging the situation they're dealing with.

They went into the ship's compartment and ascended the stairs, each step creaking under their feet, making their way up, leading to the room where they found an angry Zuko and the ever-composed Iroh. Jee stands guard outside as Lixin enters, approaching the sight of an enraged Zuko. Meanwhile, Iroh is already present, his demeanor shockingly calm, as if ready to casually sipping his tea.

What a chaotic situation unfolding before them.

The room was filled with the sound of Zuko's frustrated grunts and the crash of objects being hurled aside. A bottle shattered against the wall, its shards scattering across the floor as Zuko tore through piles of scrolls. His movements were frenzied, his breath is heavy with barely contained fury as he tossed another scroll across the room, each exhale became more intense than the last as he flung aside the scrolls, desperate to find what he was looking for.

Iroh watched from the sidelines, mask of calm composure as there's a drama before him. With a tranquil voice, he reassured him: "I'm sure it'll turn up, Zuko. You've probably just misplaced it, and before you know it, you'll be back to your usual charming self."

He had seen situations like this countless times before, knowing that getting worked up wouldn't solve anything. He calmly watched as Zuko continued to tear the place apart in search of his lost item.

"Remember," Iroh continued, taking on a more measured tone, "The notebook didn't find the Avatar. You did. The mere object is just there to help you organize your thoughts," he continued, "But it was your relentless pursuit that brought you close to capturing the Avatar."

Yeah, his nephew let out a guttural yell, his hands clenching into fists as he threw more scrolls in a fit of rage. One of them flew dangerously close to Iroh, who simply moved his head slightly to avoid it, the scroll landing with a dull thud behind him.

"And don't forget. Your unwavering ingenuity that allows you to locate the Avatar — single-minded ambition of your goal." He means it, the true credit for their progress lies with the prince himself.

Each piece brought them closer to capturing the elusive being who is yet to become master of four elements.

Zuko kicked over a nearby barrel, sending it clattering across the floor. "That notebook was everything!" he shouted, his voice cracking with frustration. "It had all my plans, all my strategies!"

His voice cracked, exhibit the depth of his anger and disappointment. Without his precious notebook, all his carefully laid out plans and strategies were gone, like a puff of smoke. The loss felt like a crushing blow, and Zuko couldn't suppress his agitation any longer.

Iroh remained unshaken, his gaze steady. "Yes, it was useful," he acknowledged, "but it was your determination that brought you close to finding the Avatar, not just the notebook."

Suddenly, Lixin, who had been quietly watching the scene from the doorway, decided it was time to step in.

"What on earth is going on here" he demanded, cutting through the din. "What's with all this commotion? All this noise is enough to wake the dead. Can't anybody have a peaceful evening in this ship?"

He felt compelled to intervene and break up the noise. It is decided that his presence would help bring order to the chaos.

Iroh turned slightly, offering him a small, reassuring smile. "Oh, rest assured, it's just a minor crisis," he said lightly. "Nothing serious — Zuko is working through some frustrations, a bit of a... let's call it an internal struggle."

"We're handling it. There's no need to be concerned."

His eyes crinkled as he flashed a small smile, trying to ease his concerns.

Zuko twitch his eyebrows at his uncle. Then he rounded on general, his eyes blazing with anger. "He got away! " he spat out in disbelief. "And we're having trouble locating him! The so-called mighty Avatar—he's nothing but a coward!"

The steam practically coming out of his ears. And who was the target of his wrath? None other than the poor Lixin, who suddenly found himself under fire from the prince's fiery gaze.

Lixin sigh, his expression unflappable. "The Avatar?" He asked calmly, and continued: "So? What's wrong with him? What exactly happened?"

Zuko's nostrils flared, a small puff of fire escaping as he exhaled sharply. "So?! I just said that we lost track of his whereabouts!"

He snapped, tinged with bitterness. "And now you're asking what's wrong?"

Lixin simply responded, unruffled by Zuko's outburst.

"Surely you've encountered more dire situations than this before," He remarked, met his fiery gaze with a cool, steady look. "Losing your temper won't change that,"

He firmly continues, "You need to focus, my old friend. Your anger is only clouding your judgment."

Groans irritably*

Zuko rolls his eyes at the endless stream of suggestions to "calm down." He feel exasperated by the constant barrage of advice. It's becoming a tiresome refrain that he's heard countless times before. It's like everyone around him thinks that the solution to every problem is to just "calm down," as if it was that easy.

He's trying his best, but the situation is getting shitty...

Zuko turned back to Iroh, desperation creeping into his voice. "Uncle, what do we do now? What is your insight on this?" he asked with a palpable frustration in his voice.

If the spirit wanted to give him advice so bad, why don't he ask him?

Iroh remained calm, then formed a word. "The Avatar is proving to be more resourceful than we anticipated," he said thoughtfully. "He's not what you or anyone else expected."

He was analyzing the situation with a calculated, strategic mind. Clearly, their adversary has the upper hand more than them.

Zuko took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. "I'm not giving up," he declared, his voice resolute. "We won't rest until we find him. I'm still the Fire Nation prince, a heir to the throne, and that has to mean something, even out here in the middle of nowhere."

The years at sea can get tiring. He's had his fill of the endless waves and the monotonous life on a ship. No more years spent cramped in small quarters with the same salty crew and the smell of the sea everywhere. He's sick of the constant rocking and rolling of the vessel, the never-ending supply of fish and limited entertainment options. It's time for some change, some solid land and fresh air.

But what about another year at sea? Well, he's had enough of this floating prison.

Iroh nodded, signifying his agreement and support. "It does, Zuko," he agreed. "You're correct on this one, being in this quieter part of the world could be to our advantage. It allows us to move and act with relative freedom. This could provide the perfect opportunity for us to plan our next move."

The old man continued to gaze thoughtfully out the window. "It's true that there are fewer people here, which means there are fewer eyes to see us coming. But we should still be cautious all the same — we're not entirely alone as we are heading course to a Ketu Harbor."

Prince Zuko stands there, looking down at the floor, deep in thought for a while.

Suddenly, firmly speak. "We'll dock the ship in the harbor, repair if necessary, and then we'll get out and find that damn coward, the avatar."

The plan is set. There's no room for doubt or hesitation. It's time to take action, no more waiting, no more hiding. It's time to act and bring the avatar to justice.

Lixin crossed his arms, tilting her head slightly. "You say the Avatar's a coward," he mused, "but maybe he's just smarter than we gave him credit for."

Zuko shot him a glare, but there was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes.

"He's running," the prince insisted, though less forcefully now. "What kind of warrior runs from a fight?"

Think of warriors, imagine powerful, fierce individuals who stand their ground and fight with honour and courage. Running away goes against everything a warrior stands for. A true warrior faces their fears and fights until the end. Running away only shows weakness and is a sign of cowardice.

They are supposed to be brave and fearless, not scaredy-cats who bolt at the first sign of danger.

But the Dragon of the West seems to have a different approach:

Iroh interjected gently, "A wise one, perhaps. He's not just a warrior; he's also a survivor. That's what makes him so difficult to catch."

Alright, technically speaking, he is correct. No one can deny it, much as they may want to. He made a valid point, and they can begrudgingly admit that he's right. Sometimes, the truth just hurts.

Zuko glanced at the map spread out on the table, his frustration returning as he studied the scattered markings. "How many places can he hide?" he muttered, more to himself than anyone else.

The Southern Seas are always full of zig zags, like a snake slithering through the water. The sailors have to constantly adjust their course to avoid crashing into the sea's twisting paths or island, like trying to navigate a maze blindfolded, never knowing what's around the next bend.

Lixin stepped closer, looking at the map alongside him. "The world is vast, but so are your resources," he said thoughtfully. "You've got your ship's might behind you, Zuko. Use it wisely."

Iroh joined too, studying the map alongside his nephew. "He's proven to be incredibly elusive," he remarked.

Zuko's frustration is getting more palpable, though more subdued.

"How are we going to find him, Uncle?" he asked, the map, marked with numerous locations and erratic lines, illustrated their challenging search. "In my opinion, he may be a master at avoiding capture and evasive maneuvering..." His eyes narrowed as he traced a line on the map with his finger.

He sigh, then vow: "But we'll find him, No matter where he runs, we'll find him."

He's determined, focused, and relentless. He will find them, the avatar and its friends, no matter what it takes. Nothing will stand in his way, not time, nor circumstance, nor even the darkest of obstacles. It's not a matter of 'if' he'll find them, it's 'when'.

He won't stop until they're found.

Iroh placed a hand on Zuko's shoulder, offering a comforting squeeze. "We will, Zuko," he said softly. "But remember, patience is as important as determination. The question isn't just where he's hiding, but where he'll go next."

Zuko looked up at him, a new intensity in his eyes. "Then we'll be ready for him," he said firmly. "We'll be ready for whatever comes next."

Outside, Jee was there waiting for it to end. Suddenly, a quick-footed sailor dashed by, urgently informing him of something. Jee, upon hearing the news, simply nodded and then made an announcement.

In a clear voice, he declared: "Prince Zuko, helmsmen inform us that we're approaching Ketu Harbor."

It meant they had finally reached their destination..

Zuko lets out a frustrated sigh and mutters under his breath, "Well, I'll be damned."

He's clearly not happy about something, though it's hard to say what. Maybe he's just having a bad day, something specific is about to happen. Scene change. All of them went back to the main decks.

As the ship continues on their way towards the Ketu Harbor, he keeps a sour expression on his face, as if he's brooding over whatever is bothering him. Iroh and Lixin exchange a look, clearly wondering what has upset the young firebender so much.

Zuko's face was stern with irritation as he observed Ketu Harbor in the distance. All the gigantic Navy ships towering over his cruiser made him feel like a small fish in a huge sea. But as his eyes scanned across the harbor's horizon, a massive ship caught his eye – It wasn't like the others, larger and more noticeable, the thing is enormous, easily the vessel that he's ever laid eyes on. it stood out from the others like a sore thumb. Its immense size made the other ships look diminutive in comparison.

He sees the sight of people working to solder plates onto its hull, looked like it was having some work done on it. He can clearly see that they're welding metal plates together to build the unfinished parts of the ship.

Zuko muttered under his breath, "Is that...?"

He couldn't quite make out what the ship was or why it stood out from the rest, but his interest was piqued.

Lixin stretched out his arm wide. "You see, my old friend?" he said, gesturing towards his intended destination.

"This will be my next stop, and I will make it my own. I'll try my best to make it work." He paused for a moment before continuing, "You know what they say – no set schedule is a great opportunity. I can't stand it when someone is constantly nagging and lashing out at me, as you sometimes do."

This is the ship he was bragging about? Well, it's certainly quite something, this thing is like a standard Empire-class battleship. But it's not exactly the same, there are a few mods made. It's impressive alright, but it's also hard to miss, whoever is steering this behemoth knows how to navigate it or they might end up running aground. Then again, with all those modifications, who knows what kind of tricks it has up its sleeve.

But we all know who is seething in anger once again...

Zuko immediately furious with Lixin, but Iroh stood nearby, shaking his head gently, as if to say 'it's not worth it'. Iroh knew that giving in to anger was like feeding a flame, it only made the situation worse. He tried to convey this wisdom to his nephew, hoping to calm his fiery temper.

Lixin spoke up, trying to diffuse the tension, "Now, now, don't lose your foot just now. I was only joking, but I'm not a saint either."

His tone was light, yet there was a hint of mischief in his eyes. He didn't want to cause offense, but he couldn't resist making a lighthearted jest at their expense. "I'm not the kind of person to put up with any nonsense. I'm not afraid to speak my mind and stand up for myself, even if it means being a little bit snarky. So, I know that I am not perfect, and I'm not ashamed of it."

It was all in good fun, after all, he also wanted to remind them that he wasn't someone to be trifled with. Perhaps he was testing the waters, seeing how far he could push before getting a reaction.

Lixin held out his hand, offering a gesture of peace. "Let's have a truce, shall we?" he asked.

It is as if he were searching for a way to diffuse the tension that had been building up between them. The offer hung in the air, waiting for a response. Would the gesture be accepted? Could this simple handshake lead to a ceasefire in their ongoing conflict?

Zuko just stared back with a steely glare. He then slowly extended his own hand, only to slap Lixin's hand away with a dismissive gesture.

"I don't need your gesture," Zuko said tersely. "I have no interest in your false show of politeness."

Lixin pout, he hadn't expected such a negative response. But he tried to remain calm and composed, maintaining a neutral expression. It was his own fault for antagonizing him anyway.

As the camera slowly panned out, the ship docked among a fleet of larger vessels, like a small fish swimming among a school of sharks, or a tiny boat trying to compete in a sea of enormous cruise ships.

THE IDIOT GENERAL — THE AVATAR THE LAST AIRBENDER

ACT 1: THE ODYSSEY OF LIXIN'S ETERNAL FLAME

CHAPTER 2: IDIOT GENERAL IN THE SOUTHERN SEAS

SCENE 1 — COMMANDER ZHAO

LOCATION: KETU HARBOR

Once the ship docks with perfect precision, Zuko, Lixin, and Iroh descend the gangway, their boots echoing on the wooden planks as they reach the bottom. The smell of saltwater and smoke fills the air, mingling with the distant sounds of the bustling harbor.

The moment they step onto the solid ground, Zuko's jaw tightens, and his eyes narrow as he glances at Lixin, who walks ahead with an air of serene indifference. Iroh, ever observant, glances at Zuko who has his tightly clenched fists and the deep scowl etched across his face.

"You seem a little bit... delightful, despite your apparent upset," Iroh remarks, his tone light but probing.

It's rather curious, the prince looks like the grumpy old man who complains loudly in public places, but behind that prickly exterior there's a twinkle of satisfaction.

Tea enthusiast is searching Zuko's face for any sign of what might truly be bothering him.

Zuko's response is immediate, his words spilling out with pent-up frustration. "Delightful? I'm anything but him, Uncle. Lixin has been a thorn in my side all day. Every time I turn around, he's there with his 'advice' and his 'wisdom,' like I'm some clueless child who needs to be guided at every step!"

Iroh rubs his chin, there is a hint of confusion in his voice. "But how come you are not mad at mine?"

"It is so dull in comparison!" Zuko raise his voice, his anger barely contained. "I'm sick of it. I'm glad he's off on his own now, doing whatever it is...that he do when he's not busy undermining his superiors."

He huffs, his glare momentarily flickering toward Lixin, "all in all, I couldn't care less about him!"

Zuko snaps, his mind whirls, replaying every irritating word Lixin had said earlier, every smug look he'd thrown his way. How dare he question his decisions?

Iroh tilts his head, his smile is soft but knowing. "You know, Zuko, anger is like fire—it spreads quickly, consuming everything in its path, including the one who wields it. Perhaps it would do you good to let it go."

He's trying his best to talk some sense into his nephew, who is being as stubborn as a mule. The young prince, unfortunately, has a one-track mind and is refusing to listen to reason, he is just tuning him out, refusing to budge an inch.

Zuko scoffs, crossing his arms tightly. "I don't need a lecture on controlling my emotions, Uncle. I need action. I need results."

He casts another glance at Lixin, now a few steps ahead.

"And as if that wasn't enough," Then he turns to Iroh, his tone shifting from irritation to urgency. "I want the repairs on the ship done as quickly as possible. We don't have time to waste. Every minute we're stuck here, he gets farther away, and I'm not about to lose his trail because of some trivial delay."

Iroh, with a knowing nod, asks, "You mean the Avatar?"

No way! Did he really just say that word out loud in this area? It's one thing to curse under breath in private, but to spit it out loud and attract attention in public? That's just asking for trouble.

Zuko whirls around sharply, his eyes narrowing as he confronts his uncle. "Don't mention his name on these docks!" he hisses, filled with intensity.

His arms sweep out in wide, agitated movements. "Do you have any idea what it would mean if word got out that he's alive? Once word gets out that he's alive, every firebender will be out looking for him, and I don't want anyone getting in the way! This is my mission, Uncle, my destiny! I won't let anyone take that from me—not the Fire Nation, not the Earth Kingdom, and certainly not some washed-up old soldiers who think they still have a stake in this war!"

His mind flashes back to the chase, the moment he almost had the Avatar within his grasp, only to be thwarted at the last second. His voice echoes off the nearby ships, the sheer force of his conviction momentarily silencing the busy harbor. He takes another breath, trying to calm the storm within.

Before Iroh can respond, a voice cuts through the tension like a knife, deep and authoritative. "Getting in the way of what, Prince Zuko?"

Looks like his involuntarily trash talking attract attention...

Zuko and Iroh turn, their expressions shifting to shock as they face the man approaching them. A tall figure with prominent appearance, dressed in a Fire Nation uniform, steps forward with an air of smug superiority. His hands are clasped behind his back, his eyes glinting with amusement as he takes in Zuko's barely-contained fury.

Zuko's face twists with disdain as he recognizes the newcomer. "Captain Zhao," he mutters, the dislike in his voice unmistakable.

The sight of Zhao only pissed him off more. He remembers the last time they crossed paths, the condescension, the thinly veiled mockery. And now here he is again, ready to throw his weight around.

Zhao's lips curl into a smirk. "It's commander now," he corrects him, his tone laced with smugness. Then, he bows slightly in Iroh's direction. "And General Iroh, the great hero of our nation."

Iroh returns the bow, a polite smile on his face. "Retired general," he corrects softly.

The title weighs too heavily on him to wear anymore.

But even in retirement, the weight of that title follows him wherever he goes. Iroh can sense the tension between Zuko and Zhao, and though he keeps his demeanor calm, he knows this encounter could easily spiral out of control.

Zhao's gaze shifts to Lixin, who remains silent and composed. "And general Lixin too," Zhao says, his tone suddenly tainted with a mix of respect and thinly-veiled contempt. "Not just a mere officer, but the greatest strategist in battle... and a pacifist."

He nearly spits the last word, adds with a slight pout, bowing slightly.

The commander knew the general all too well. He was known for his diplomatic demeanor, always acting as a peacekeeper instead of a fierce leader on the battlefield. He was a soft-hearted sympathizer, constantly trying to understand the perspective of the savages. That's what added to the his slight disdain towards the him.

But he couldn't bring himself to disrespect the general outright, but it frustrated him how detached the general seemed from the realities of war.

Lixin, for the first time, turns to Zhao, his expression impassive. "A strategist must always seek the path that leads to victory with the least loss of life," he responds with a voice measured. "War is not a game, Commander."

And that is how he managed to gather allies from both sides in the battlefield, Fire Nation and Earth Kingdom, effortlessly weaving together alliances left and right — he was able to solve the dispute somehow, It's a wonder how he does it so seamlessly.

Zhao raises an eyebrow, unimpressed. "Perhaps. But sometimes, a show of strength is necessary to remind our enemies of their place."

But the general is not easily back down.

Lixin's eyes narrow slightly. "And sometimes, a show of strength is nothing more than a waste of potential."

The commander sighed heavily, knowing that there was no point in arguing with the general. After all, the general was the experienced one here, he had a knowledge to back him up. The commander, on the other hand, had much to learn from his older counterpart. Maybe it was time to stop being so stubborn and listen to the wisdom of the general.

After all, age had a way of bringing wisdom, and the general was certainly not lacking in that department.

Zhao's attention shifts back to Zuko, dismissing Lixin's words with a slight shake of his head. "The Fire Lord's brother and son, and not to mention the general of the army... are welcome guests anytime. What brings you to my harbor?"

Zuko's impatience flares. "I need recent surveillance reports right now."

That happened so quickly that it's hard to keep up. He is talking at lightning speed. He got somewhere urgent to be, impressive.

Zhao raises an eyebrow at the abruptness. "Excuse me?"

The prince better not—...

But Zuko pushes forward, ignoring the surprise. "And maps. Nautical maps. The more detailed, the better."

His tongue is lightning, weaving through the air like sparks from a flame. Words pour from his mouth quicker than a firebender could throw their fire, only stopping to breathe. He talks so fast that the words become a blur, making it difficult to keep up.

Iroh notices the tension in his posture and decides to intervene. "Please excuse my nephew," he says, his voice calm and composed. "We've been at sea a long time, and our manners have grown as rusty as our anchors. The salt air and solitude of the open ocean has a way of dulling the edges of etiquette. If you could find it in your heart to overlook our rough manner, we would be eternally grateful."

He means it, he's not kidding. Even Iroh himself admits that he can be a bit, well, unconventional sometimes. Humorous, witty, and maybe even a touch eccentric. But that's what makes him so endearing, his ability to find humor in the most unexpected moments, and his quirky personality that keeps things interesting.

Zhao waves off the apology with a dismissive hand. "General Iroh, no need to apologize, and please forgive our lapses as well. We don't get many VIP visitors around here, much less the famed Dragon of the West."

It was true what he said, it was a rare occurrence for a VIP to visit the base, almost unheard of. No one in recent memory could recall a time when they had graced the base with their presence like this. Perhaps there had been a few dignitaries or high-ranking officials that had dropped in, but it was nothing like this.

The usual visitors were usually soldiers stationed at the base or the occasional researcher.

Iroh smiles graciously. "As my nephew was saying, we are in search of maps and surveillance reports," he repeats, trying to maintain a semblance of decorum. "And our ship is in dire need of repairs."

He gestures towards the ship, its hull scarred and battered from their recent battles. The damage is severe, the ship barely holding together after their last encounter with the Avatar.

Zhao's eyes narrow as he inspects the vessel. "That's quite a bit of damage," he comments, slightly skeptical.

The bow of the ship is not in a good shape... What caused this?

Zuko crosses his arms, his expression tight. "Yes."

He holds up one finger as if counting off points, or listing grievances. "You wouldn't believe what happened." He glances at Iroh before turning back to Zhao. "Uncle! Tell Commander Zhao what happened."

It was so suddenly that Iroh wasn't prepared, and he caught a mouthful of saliva, causing him to cough slightly. First, everything is fine and the next, he hacks like he have just swallowed a bug.

Hus eyes widen in surprise at Zuko's sudden command. "Yes. I will do that." He lifts a hand, his voice suddenly animated as he recalls. "It was incredible!—"

Trail off for a moment, unsure of the word he wanted to say...

He leans toward Zuko, his voice dropping to a confused whisper. "What? Did we crash or something?"

In the middle of the tense atmosphere, Lixin couldn't help himself and burst into laughter. He tried desperately to contain it behind his hands, but his amusement was undeniable. Even Zhao, who had been stoic up to this point, raised his eyebrows in surprise, taken aback by Lixin's sudden outburst.

Zuko's face flushes slightly with embarrassment. "Yes! Right into... an Earth Kingdom ship!"

This moron could have claimed that the ship had hit an iceberg, a freak accident that he had no control over. Or lightning bending from Lixin causes an entire avalanche. Easy peasy, right? But no, he had to go and choose the most outlandish story possible. Ram into an earth kingdom vessel? What nonsense is this?

"It's a disaster! The screams, the debris, the chaos - it's total pandemonium. We're lucky that I get out of this mess alive and well. Clearly spirit have cursed me. This is not how We wanted our journey to go..."

He missed a perfect opportunity to be somewhat believable and instead chose a scenario that makes him look ridiculous.

Zhao's eyes widen in disbelief, though his smirk never fully fades. "Really? I must say, I'm truly intrigued. You must regale me with all of the thrilling details of your little 'adventure', or whatever you call it. I am at the edge of my seat."

And then, with mockery, he steps closer to Zuko. "Join me for a drink?"

Let's witness whether the Zuko's will be willing to accept his offer or not. Though, let's be honest, there is a sense of hope on Iroh's part, in the case that his nephew will accept. He has faith in his young nephew's decision-making abilities, hoping that he too sees the reasoning behind this proposal.

Besides, who can resist the temptations when it comes to tea?

Zuko averts his gaze, clearly uncomfortable. He begins to walk away, muttering, "Sorry, but we have to go."

Ah dang it!—...

Zhao watches him with an amused expression, but as Zuko walks off, Iroh places a gentle hand on his shoulder, halting him.

"Prince Zuko, show Commander..." Iroh pauses, searching for the name.

"Zhao. Commander Zhao," Zhao fills in smoothly.

Iroh nods, his voice kind but firm. "Yes, Zuko, show Commander Zhao your respect." He removes his hand from Zuko's shoulder, turning to face Zhao fully. Zuko, however, merely slants his eyes at the man. "We would be honored to join you. Do you have any ginseng tea? It's my favorite."

Zhao's smirk widens, clearly enjoying the power he holds in this situation.

"Ah, I see. At your service." He glances at Lixin, then back at Iroh. "And if you wouldn't mind giving me until the morning, we can track down what you need. As for the tea? If I'm a bit late, you can indulge in a drink, because I'll have someone prepare tea for you. In the meantime, I've been tasked with giving General Lixin a tour of his ship. I will return shortly."

As Zhao turns to walk off with Lixin, Zuko stands rooted to the spot, his fists clenching and unclenching as he struggles to contain his frustration.

The moment Zhao and Lixin are out of earshot, Zuko lets out a low growl, his anger simmering just below the surface. With a flick of his wrist, a small arc of fire sparks from his hand, dissipating into the air as quickly as it appeared.

The road ahead will only grow more difficult for him...

It's been a while since they started walking, and Zhao couldn't help but ask, "So, how's it going for you and Zuko? I can see your relationship with him is not like your typical friends. If I took my eyes off, the fight could break out at any moment."

He has witnessed the sight, there's no point in denying it.

Lixin chuckle and shake his head, "He's a prince and all," he is trying hard not to laugh, "but he's just so... laughable. I mean no disrespect... but come on. He can't be seriously trying to be intimidating, can he? He looks like a pampered little boy pretending to be tough. I just can't take him seriously."

They made their way up the ramp, workers scurrying out of their path. Lixin continued forward, his gaze unflinching as he muttered "You know, I could beat the piss out of him, but we all know that's not my style. I'm more into a peaceful approach..."

But then, another worker, in his haste to get out of their path, accidentally bumped into Lixin. And the general didn't take that kindly. With a quick flick of his arm, he sent him flying into the water, not caring for his well-being.

He simply shrugged, "Eh, ignore that one though... he had it coming."

Zhao took careful note of this, his eyes blinking rapidly behind his spectacles. Lixin seemed more reluctant to fight at first, but once he was fully awake and alert, nobody in their right mind would want to stand in his way.

Now the commander understood that once the general decided to fight, he would be a formidable opponent, and It was a warning not to underestimate him.

"I suppose that's true..." he mused, with a doubt in his voice, his face scrunching up into a contemplative expression as he paused to think. "But I have my suspicions about the prince. Crash into the Earth Kingdom ship? Please... *Chuckle* If he had done that, the ship would have been much more damaged than it was. And that's assuming it even happened at all, which seems like a pretty outrageous claim."

They were on an unfinished battleship. Suddenly, Zhao stops in his tracks and speaks up.

"It would be unreasonable to lie when the truth is staring at you in the face," He pauses for a moment before continuing. "You know, truth is like loyalty. And speaking of loyalty, I have a question for you. Do you pledge your loyalty to your nation, your faith, and the Fire Lord? No offense, general, but... I want to know where your allegiances lie."

Lixin keep his face straight, not even move a bit. Does he have to do this?

"I was indoctrinated, Commander Zhao, you know what they taught me when I was there" he remarked sharply, then he recited the Fire Nation Oath with remarkable smoothness, as if he had memorized it word for word. "My very life I give to my country. With my hands I fight for Fire Lord Ozai and our forefathers before him. With my mind I seek ways to better my country. And with my feet, may our march of civilization continue."

Like fervor of a devoted soldier who had been thoroughly indoctrinated to serve his nation, no matter the cost.

"Is that what you wanted me to say?..."

But there was no hint of pride, or excitement in his voice; he spoke mechanically, lacking any sense of patriotic fervor. It was akin to hearing a child read a passage from a textbook, utterly disinterested and lacking any genuine enthusiasm for the words he was saying.

Lixin goes past the commander, his gaze fixed on the horizon. The life's complexities hung heavily on his shoulders. He spoke with a mix of resignation and regret, "Life is complicated. I never thought I'd find myself in this position. When I joined the war, I did some terrible things without a second thought. Even if I gained the title of 'pacifist', the reality is I have... It was way before... I took lives, and there is a more atrocious act I did, and it is not something I am proud of."

Zhao had heard enough, it was far more than what he needed. He paused for a moment, taking in a deep breath.

"I see." With a serious expression on his face, he continued, "If what you've told me is true, then perhaps you could be open with me and share the truth. Let's talk about your recent journey, as well as what you have witnessed during your travels with prince—..."

He was about to finish his sentence when Lixin suddenly exclaimed: "The Avatar is alive."

Zhao fell silent as he is surprised by the admittance. How could Lixin know that the Avatar had survived? Was this merely a rumor, or did he have inside information? The news was too shocking to be dismissed as mere speculation.

"That is low-key unbelievable," he dismissed it, dripping with disbelief. "The Avatar has been gone for years, and even if he did reincarnate, there's no telling if he would have been reborn into the Water tribe, Earth Kingdom or not."

He scoffed, crossing his arms defiantly. "This whole idea is just a bunch of... nonsense."

Some part of him wanted to believe that it wasn't a coincidence, he thought it was fate, or a strange luck. He couldn't shake off the feeling that there was something more to it than just a random occurrence. It seemed too uncanny, and he wonder if it was meant to be.

Lixin's eyes were fixated on the vibrant shades of the evening sky, "You won't believe what I just witnessed. I kid you not, it was like something out of a fantasy. I saw him bend the air, taking down a dozen men without harming them, super fast, I'm not making this up. He's the last airbender, no doubt about it."

Zhao has his eyes sizing him up for a brief moment.

Hmph, that's quite a claim. Bending the air? Fast? Agile? Only an airbender can truly bend the air, if there's any chance that this is actually true, then perhaps they are witnessing the Avatar. That would certainly explain his smirk. But until he see concrete evidence, he remain skeptical.

"Very well," he said, a bit slightly bemused. "My men are currently questioning Zuko's crew as we speak. If they corroborate your story, we will have no further reasons to doubt your words."

The words were spoken as if he was waiting for a satisfying outcome. He was almost hopeful that the upcoming news would prove the veracity of his truth

"Once again, your loyalty to our Nation is indeed touching," Zhao praised, now genuinely this time. "And your admittance shows that, I have no doubt, our General has his own sense of honor."

Lixin let out exhale and nodded in agreement, chuckled a little bit.

"Don't question my loyalty..."

He had just informed the commander Zhao about the Avatar's status knowing damn well that Zuko would be furious, he was deliberately trying to stoke the flames of family drama. Well good luck dealing with that angry Prince, and it's not going to be pretty.

What about loyalty part? Well, it was just a lie and he get away with it...

SCENE 2 — FATHER AND DAUGHTER

LOCATION: FIRE NATION - ROYAL PALACE

High in the sky, a messenger hawk glided gracefully through the air, it formed a dark silhouette against the brilliant glow of the setting sun. Golden rays flickered and danced across its outstretched wings, casting a warm sheen over its feathers as it soared through the vibrant hues of orange and yellow clouds. The sky was alive with the colors of dusk, an ethereal backdrop for the hawk's silent flight. Far below, the sprawling capital of the Fire Nation loomed large, its red rooftops and towering structures shimmering under the last light of day. The hawk descended steadily, its keen eyes locking onto its destination: the imperial citadel, the very heart of the Fire Nation's formidable empire.

With practiced precision, the bird swooped down, gliding effortlessly towards an open window in the citadel's highest tower. A guard stood by the window, his eyes catching the hawk as it approached. He extended his arm, and the bird landed lightly, claws gripping the leather bracer on his forearm. In its beak, a rolled-up letter sealed with the royal emblem. The guard, expression unreadable, gently took the message, stroking the hawk's head as a reward before setting it free to rest from its long journey.

The hawk had fulfilled its duty, and now it was the message's turn to serve its purpose.

In the grand throne room of the Fire Lord, the atmosphere was thick with tension. Ozai stood tall at the head of the chamber, his expression as dark as the shadows cast by the flickering torches on the walls. His daughter, Azula, stood beside him, her posture rigid, her eyes gleaming with cruel amusement as she listened to her father speak.

"What a bunch of pathetic weaklings," Ozai commented dripping with disdain, harsh and venomous. He glared at the floor as if the revolutionists' very presence in his mind was enough to enrage him. "All that whining and complaining. Can you believe how pitiful they are? I should've burned them alive for their insolence."

Azula's lips curled into a smirk, her eyes narrowing with satisfaction at the memory of the recent coup attempt. It had been a fleeting moment of resistance, easily crushed by the Fire Nation's might.

There is a sinister gleam in her own eyes as she soaked up her father's words.

"Those revolutionist idiots sure know how to make a mess, but I think it's still better that they are locked up in Boiling Rock Prison rather than letting them run amok," she remarked. "It saves us a lot of trouble, at least. They can rot there while we focus on more important matters. No more disruptions. Finally, we can restore order."

At least the one who was responsible for all the damage and chaos has ceased to exist. No more problems will be caused by their actions. They can finally return to a peaceful state, free from the disruptive influences of the troublemaker.

This is certainly good news for everyone involved...

Ozai spoke with venom in every word, his voice filled with contempt. "Mentioning weakling reminds me of Lixin, your old friend in the academy when you were young," he said. "That foolish general, what an idiot. he's as much of an idiot as those revolutionists. His ideals are a plague, spreading unrest throughout the Fire Nation. Just the mention of his name angers me beyond words."

His face twisted into an ugly sneer.

"His so-called ideals have brought nothing but misery and chaos. He's a disgrace to our nation, a stain on our reputation." The Fire Lord clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white from the pressure.

Azula nodded in agreement with her father's words, her expression serious.

"Yes, father. He was indeed trouble and weak," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of contempt.

Her smirk faltered slightly, her brow furrowing as she thought back to her time at the academy. Lixin had been a nuisance, always clinging to ideas that are considered weak. He had been different, weaker in many ways, and yet...

"I mean, I was... baffled how easily my old former friend found an ally so quickly, it went against my expectations. I simply couldn't fathom the idea of anyone willingly aligning themselves with such a person."

Ozai slowly turns and paces back and forth, his face contorted with a bitter, resentful expression.

"Despite all that, his ability to make friends and firebending skills are... impressive" he said through gritted teeth. "I begrudgingly admit his skill is far more formidable, that his power surpassed even yours, Azula."

The words stung, as Azula's face went hardened and twisted with jealousy. Ozai knew that she was talented, but the general's skill was on a whole different level. It was humbling, and infuriating, her pride wounded by her father's unexpected compliment for her rival. She watches as Ozai continues to pace back and forth, his eyes fixed on hers, as if awaiting her response.

She tried to defend herself, "His skills couldn't possibly surpass mine—" But immediately was cut off by her father, who continued slowly.

"Azula, do not underestimate him" Her father warned.

"I acknowledged that Lixin in question had made progress, we managed to rapidly gain territory in some part of the Earth Kingdom, thanks to his... recent outlandish proposal." Ozai spoke deliberately, then added, "I'm not saying he is a threat, no, not necessarily, but there is a hint, maybe... he could be a valuable asset..."

So far, Lixin hasn't done anything to indicate that he's a traitor or disloyal in any way. It's his way of thinking that's been sparking rebellions and causing people to revolt. His ideas and philosophies have spread like fire, igniting the spark within people to rise up against the status quo. Everywhere he goes, people are inspired to take action and stand up for what they believe in.

The Fire Lord seemed to suggest that this young man might pose a potential problem in the future.

"I have tried so many different methods to convince him, to secure his loyalty..." He paused, his tone laced with annoyance and disappointment. "Every single attempt has been a failure, he's completely immune to my tactics. I've tried to appeal to his sense of obligation, his greed, his fear... but it's all in vain.."

He clenches his fists, his irritation growing with each word. Ozai then looked at Azula, his eyes filled with determination.

"I have exhausted all of my options," he said, "and in my desperation, I turn to you. As a last resort in the future, I would like you to attempt to sway his opinion, but do not try to force him into your embrace because it will never work. It is crucial that you understand that even though he doesn't agree with us now, he is still a vital asset to our plans."

There would be no exceptions or deviations from his plan. He would not tolerate any disobedience or insolence.

Azula stood there, a perplexed expression on her face.

"Now?" she muttered to herself, confusion etched on her features. Her eyes are narrowing, she is left scratching her head.

Fire Lord waved his hand in a dismissive motion.

"No, not now," he responded with an air of authority. "I've made it clear that you'll carry out the task in the future, once I give my official approval." Ozai continued, "I've heard about your... kind of romantic involvement with the son of a different house. Azula, is this true?"

Azula's heart skipped a beat, and she felt a pang of anxiety. Damn, her secret relationship had been discovered by her father, Ozai has no issue with murderin' his enemies.

She hesitates at first, but she calmly admits it, "Yes..."

For her, it was an embarrassing confession. She had always strived to appear strong and confident to her father, and to show any weakness felt like a betrayal of her image. So she had to keep her expression stoic, suppressing any hint of vulnerability. It took all her willpower to keep her voice steady and her chin held high, even though she wanted nothing more than to let her guard down and reveal her true feelings.

"That's exactly the problem," Ozai said, sighing in frustration. "I'm unable to give the mission a go because of the inconsistencies and paradoxes associated with the situation. There are just too many unpredictable factors involved."

Suddenly, a servant quickly rushed forward, dropping to his knees beside Ozai. Azula's eyebrows raised in curiosity as she watched the scene, the servant's voice trembled slightly as he spoke.

"A letter, my lord," he said, his hands trembling as he held out the piece of parchment toward Ozai.

The Fire Lord let out a loud cough, signaling to the servant and the nearby to quickly exit the room, something important was happening, something that required privacy. Once the door had shut, he carefully opened a small case and pulled out a yellow parchment, its surface adorned with letters. Azula, ever observant and eager for information, quietly watched as her father's gaze wandered across the page, his eyes scanning the words with a flicker of emotion.

What on earth could be written in that letter?

"A message from one of my commanders in the Southern Seas. No one of any importance. What he had to report, however..." Ozai, with a look of anger and determination, declared, "Zhao has informed us that the Avatar is alive."

Azula smile, feeling relieved that Lixin hadn't discovered this information first. "What a fool," she thought to herself, silently celebrating her superiority.

Ozai's ears perked up at the sound of a mutter, his mind focused on the words that echoed in his ears. "Yes, a fool" he said while giving side eyes at his daughter. "A fool that managed to find out that the avatar, is alive..."

Azula noticed her father's reaction and watched him intently. She saw things in his eyes and the tension in his expression, and she knew that he had just heard something significant.

"Wait," she thought, "that Lixin was the one who found the avatar?"

The fact that it was Lixin, of all people, who had found out about the avatar was definitely unexpected, especially given her competitive nature. She turned her gaze towards Lixin, curious to know more...

Ozai said with a haughty smirk on his face.

"Yes, it is being said already." He paused for a moment for dramatic effect, his eyes scanning the faces in the room. "There is a multiple competitive hunt for the avatar. But let's exclude the insignificant, we can only focus on Lixin and Zhao."

He gestured dismissively, as if he was swatting away flies.

"I doubt that your brother himself will be able to pull together." He looked directly at her daughter, as if expecting a reaction.

Unbeknownst to them all, it seems like Zhao is giving all the credit to Lixin and not acknowledging Zuko's contribution at all. That's not cool at all! The prince probably put in just as much effort but Zhao doesn't seem to care. What a jerk, Zhao is acting like a selfish glory hound who's willing to step on anyone to get what he wants.

SCENE 3 — THE TENSION

LOCATION: KETU HARBOR

Inside the dimly lit tent, tension hangs thick in the air. Two Fire Nation soldiers guard the entrance, their faces stern and immovable. Within, Commander Zhao stands before a large map of the Four Nations, his hands clasped behind his back. The camera slowly pulls back, revealing more of the room and its occupants. Zuko sits at a table, fists clenched tightly. In the corner, Iroh stands, inspecting a rack of weapons as though none of Zhao's heated words concern him.

Zhao speak coldly, also with confidence in his voice. "And by the end of the year, the Earth Kingdom capital will be under our rule," he declares, his eyes narrowing at the map as if the Earth Kingdom itself could hear his words. "The Fire Lord will finally claim victory in this war. The time for dominance is coming and there's not a damn thing they can do about it."

He's certain, absolutely certain that this war is nearing its end. You can see it in his eyes, the confidence that victory will soon be at their fingertips. It's like he's had a glimpse into the future and seen the glorious outcome of this conflict. He's unshakeable, a true believer that the war will soon be over and that their side shall prevail.

Zuko grits his teeth, the muscles in his jaw tensing. "Victory?" he mutters under his breath, before raising his voice. "If my father thinks the rest of the world will just follow him willingly, then he is a fool, he doesn't understand what it takes and what it means to bring people together, or what it means to inspire loyalty and respect."

As the prince stands before him, Zhao smirk at the young prince's boldness. He glances at him with a hint of mockery in his eyes, almost admiring the fire in Zuko's heart, the prince is just a fool to be disposed of.

Commander comments on his antics. "Two years at sea have made you bold, something done little to temper your tongue, but not wise. How has your search for the Avatar gone, Prince Zuko? Or are you still chasing shadows?"

Before Zuko can answer, Lixin, who has been leaning nonchalantly against a map, finally speaks up, his tone measured but pointed.

"Hmm... Zhao, you might be underestimating the Earth Kingdom. It's not just a matter of time; they're more resilient than you think." He taps his fingers against his arm thoughtfully. His eyes flick to the map. "We often forget that an estimate is just that—an estimate. They've had their backs against the wall before and come out swinging. Maybe it's time to consider that this war could drag on... longer than you expect, they are not something that can be easily crushed. It might take a while until the comet arrives once again, but I wouldn't count on it as I don't discount the unexpected twists of fate. There are always... unexpected twists."

Zhao smirk, "I refuse to believe such plot twist-..."

Coincidentally, there is sudden crash interrupts the moment. Iroh has accidentally knocked over the display of weapons, sending swords and spears clattering to the ground. Zhao startles at the noise, visibly annoyed. Iroh offers a sheepish grin.

"A bit touchy, aren't you? Another example of the unexpected twist." Lixin sighs at his antics.

He's trampling all over it. Time to give him a gentle nudge and a friendly reminder that boundaries are there for a reason.

Iroh bows slightly, his face full of innocent mischief. "Eh... my fault entirely."

With a smile still on his face, he places his hands into his sleeves and shuffles backward, gracefully removing himself from the situation, leaving only a faint chuckle behind him, humming a soft tune as though the whole affair is amusing to him.

The mood shifts back, serious once more. Zuko glares at Zhao, his voice low and aggressive. "We haven't found him yet."

It's all been a lie, a web of deceit and manipulation. But at least he made an effort. It's not like he was sitting around doing nothing, right? He tried to fool the commander, but the bastard saw through his scheme.

Zhao's smug grin returns. "You say you haven't found the Avatar. Did you even expect to? Or is this some wild goose chase to prolong your exile? Unless..." His eyes narrow, knowing look flickering in them. "...you have some evidence that the Avatar is alive?"

Oh, He knows already, he's just playing dumb and acting all innocent. He's toying with the prince, trying to get him to open up and reveal more than he should. It's a tactic, a way to put pressure on the prince and get him frustrated.

Zuko's face tightens, but he stays composed. "No," he says clearly, staring straight ahead, "nothing."

He keep lies, lies after lies.

Zhao cuts him off with a wave of his hand, mocking the prince. "Two years... and what do you have to show for it? Nothing. Prince Zuko." He steps closer to Zuko, his eyes narrowing into slits. "And if you have any sense of duty left, you'll stop playing games..."

Zuko just stay silent, refuse to answer.

Zhao steps closer, his face a mask of disbelief and frustration. "Prince Zuko," he begins, his tone sharp, "the Avatar is the only one who can stop the Fire Nation from winning this war." He leans in, with a near whisper. "If you have even an ounce of loyalty left to your nation, you'll tell me what you've found."

It was truly enjoyable. To mock a prince, to poke fun at a royal figure, is a rare and delightful experience. He is a targeted for mockery...

That's it!

Zuko's patience snaps. "I haven't found anything!"

His voice cracks with frustration, but then he softens, taking on a biting, sarcastic edge. "Like you said—the Avatar probably died a long time ago."

He's had it. He just wants to get out of this annoying situation. He's reached his limit. The source of his frustration is like an endless well of irritation, pissing him off time and time again, he needs to break free from its

He pushes back his chair, standing abruptly. "Come on, Uncle. We're leaving."

The tension in the tent is broken again by Iroh's soft chuckle. "If that's the case then... Zhao, maybe we should all go home, hmm? Perhaps enjoy some well-deserved peace."

Zhao didn't even bother to responds, as if he is waiting for something in anticipation.

As Zuko approaches the exit, the two guards stationed at the exit quickly crossed their spears in front of him, creating a barricade that prevented him from leaving. Suddenly, a third soldier entered the room and approached Zhao.

"Commander Zhao," the soldier reports crisply, "As per your instruction, we conducted interrogations with the crew. They affirmed that Prince Zuko had indeed secured the Avatar in his custody. However, regrettably, the Avatar managed to escape."

Zhao's eyes light up with sadistic pleasure. He strides over to Zuko, his smile widening as he leans in closer than before, in a venomous whisper.

"Now, remind me," he says mockingly, "how exactly was your ship damaged?"

Zuko opens his mouth to respond, but the commander shushes him with a dismissive wave.

"Oh, don't bother. I already know the answer." Zhao chuckles darkly. "General Lixin here was kind enough to fill in the details, he told me everything about your little... failure. And how you failed... miserably."

The General is a rat, a turncoat, a tattletale! He just won't hesitate to spill the beans at the first opportunity. No loyalty, no honor, just a backstabbing!

Zuko's eyes flare with rage, turning to Lixin. "You... traitor! You spineless snitch!"

Lixin shrugs nonchalantly with unreadable expression "It's not personal, Zuko. Just doing my part."

Zuko, visibly defeated, slumps back into the chair as two soldiers flank him.

Zhao begins pacing again, the confidence in his voice growing with each step. "So, a twelve-year-old boy bested you and your firebenders... I'm sorry, did I hear you correctly? How pitiful can you possibly be?" He stops, now getting increasingly dripping disdain. "You're more pathetic than I thought."

Imagine being overpowered by a twelve-year-old airbender. It's embarrassing! All that training and experience, yet the prince were beaten by someone who's barely out of diapers. Humiliating, he is left with his head hung low in shame.

Zuko's rage flares again. "I underestimated him once, but it will not happen again!"

He vowed that he will be wary of the avatar.

"No," Zhao snaps back, retaliated in dangerous tone. "It will not. Because you won't get another chance."

Zhao made his intentions crystal clear. The kid was to stay out of the situation, period. No exceptions. This matter was non-negotiable and he wasn't open to any debate or negotiation. The kid was off-limits, a no-go zone, and there would be serious consequences if anyone dared to disregard his directive.

Zuko's alarm is immediate. "Commander Zhao, I've been hunting the Avatar for two years and—"

Zhao cuts him off sharply, fire flaring from his hands as he steps forward, his anger now fully unleashed. "And you failed!" He closes the distance between them. "Capturing the Avatar is too important to leave in a teenager's hands. He's mine now."

Once failed means once failed. There's no sugarcoating it, no turning back the hands of time. It's a done deal. No second chances, no do-overs. Zukofind himself in the wrong side of failure.

Before anyone can react, the prince leaps at Zhao in a fit of rage, but the guards seize him, holding him back. Zuko struggles, spitting venom. "I swear, Zhao! Even if you do find the Avatar, you'll fail! Only I have the destiny to capture him and—"

He meant every word he said, that was a fact. Whatever it takes, he's going to make it happen. No matter the obstacle, he'll find a way to overcome it. No stone will be left unturned. but suddenly, Lixin slammed his hand down on the table with such force that the cups rattle and tea spilled over the edge. The wood almost splintering under Lixin's hand

"WILL YOU TWO SHUT YOUR AIR HOLES... FOR FIVE MINUTES!? ALL OF YOU!" The entire tent falls into stunned silence. No one had ever seen Lixin, usually so composed, snap like this.

He breathes heavily, his face a mask of frustration. "I get it! This Avatar nonsense, the war, the endless cycle of this conversation— it's driving me mad, it's giving me a headache! Every day, it's the same thing: 'Where's the Avatar? Who's gonna capture the Avatar?'."He perfectly mimics their voice and imitated their nature, then he shakes his head, pacing in a tight circle. "We're running in circles! Here I am, trying to enjoy my tea in the middle of this madness, hoping to find some shelter before the gathering storm, but instead, we're back to the same old nonsense: where's the Avatar?"

Iroh laughs softly. "Wash, rinse, repeat... yes, quite predictable." He strokes his beard, grinning. "It would be nice if the universe left us a sign or two, don't you think?"

An awkward silence fills the tent.

Zhao stares at Zuko for a long moment, then with a final, cold command, he says, "Keep them here."

He turns and strides out, leaving Zuko seething with rage. With a growl, Zuko kicks the table in front of Iroh, shattering it into splinters. Objects scatter across the room, but Iroh remains unbothered, watching the chaos with an amused twinkle in his eye.

"More tea, please," Iroh says calmly.

Despite the world around him erupting in disorder, he maintains his composure, sipping slowly and deliberately on his cup. The room may be filled with screaming, yelling, and frenzied activity, but he remains still, his gaze fixed on the gentle steam rising from his beverage -the only reality being the calming, earthy taste of his tea.

Zuko turns sharply to Lixin, his frustration boiling over. "Why didn't you keep your mouth shut about the Avatar?"

He could have kept his mouth shut and avoided the whole situation, but of course, he didn't. Why? Because he's a blabbermouth, a chronic chatterbox, a master of sticking his foot in his mouth. Maybe he thinks his opinions are too important to keep to himself, or maybe he just loves the sound of his own voice.

Lixin's face hardens as he meets Zuko's gaze, his tone sharp. "Because, Prince Zuko, you didn't exactly ask me to keep it a secret."

Well... He has a good argument there...

Zuko have his eyes gleaming with contempt. "You-..."

Lixin replied with a hint of bitterness, "I'm not exactly in a position to say this, I'm well aware that I don't have the privilege to voice such opinions, nor is it my style to do so. But I feel compelled to state it: I've always had my own agenda, my ambitions, my own motivations in life. I have dreams and aspirations just like anyone else. — My own destiny"

He has some very important things to attend to. Babysitting the prince isn't among them. As much as he would probably love to help, he can't keep an eye on the prince 24/7. He has his own responsibilities to take care of, he's a busy guy, and he can't just drop everything to play nanny for the prince.

Iroh gently chastised his nephew.

"Now, now..." he said, his voice calm an measured. "Don't let your tension get the better of you, Prince Zuko. You must maintain your dignity and honor in front of a general. Not just him, but everyone as well..."

He wanted to remind him to maintain his composure in this important encounter. So, he took a deep breath and tried to calm his nephew down before they entered the general's presence.

Suddenly, Zhao strode confidently back toward the tent, his steps echoing through the silence of the encampment. The two guards stationed at the entrance stood to attention, gripping their spears tightly as he approached. Without sparing them a glance, their faces illuminated by the flickering glow of the fire.

"My search party is ready," Zhao began carrying the same arrogant confidence that had always grated on Zuko. "Once I'm out to sea," he continued, making a sweeping gesture toward the outside, "my guards will escort you back to your ship." He paused, his gaze locking onto Zuko, who sat rigidly in his chair, fists clenched.

"Then you'll be free to go," Zhao added, almost as an afterthought.

He was determined to get the avatar, he had a plan, a purpose, a drive to succeed, no matter what it took. He was confident in his abilities and didn't want any distractions or unnecessary complications. He would not let anyone stand in his way.

His gaze shifted toward Lixin, standing off to the side, "General Lixin," he addressed with a mocking formality, "it would be an honor if you joined me on my expedition, the grand hunt for the Avatar. Or perhaps..." Zhao's smile widened, "you're already well on your, maybe have other businesses? Let's see which of us reaches the Avatar first. A little friendly competition?" His smile grew wider, amused by his own words.

Lixin chuckled at the commander, a smug smile on his face.

He proclaimed, "As the General, I assure you that I can handle myself. I am perfectly capable at self-sustaining , thank you very much."

He is sure to keep himself alive, no matter what the situation or challenge. It's not a very humble statement, but he makes the statement hard to refute.

Zuko's simmering anger finally boiled over, interjected. "Why?" he spat, glaring up at Zhao with fire in his eyes. "Are you having a partnership because worried I'm going to try and stop you?"

Zhao's laugh was sharp and cutting, like a blade drawn in the night. He threw his head back as the sound echoed through the tent. "You? Stop me?" He let out another harsh laugh. "Impossible."

How could a mere banished prince have the audacity to challenge him? It's utterly outrageous. A person of such low status should know their place, yet he dares to confront him head-on, a lowly peasant facing off, completely defying the natural order. The prince's audacity is astonishing, who does he think he is, thinking he could stand a chance against a superior being?

Zuko shot to his feet, knocking his chair back as he did. His entire body shook with barely controlled rage. "Don't underestimate me, Zhao!" he shouted, his voice vibrating with the intensity of his fury. "I will capture the Avatar before either of you both!"

He is real mad! One look at his face and you can feel the rage emanating from him like heat from a furnace, at this point nobody would want to be the one stuck in his path when he finally blows his top.

Iroh rose beside him, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to his nephew's fury. He placed a firm hand on Zuko's shoulder, attempting to steady him. "Prince Zuko," Iroh said, his voice low and full of warning, "that's enough."

But Zhao was far from finished. His cruel smirk never left his face as he turned back to Zuko, relishing every second of the confrontation. "You can't compete with me, boy," he said coldly. "I have hundreds of warships at my disposal. A fleet that stretches across the horizon. And you?" Zhao's eyes glittered with disdain as he gestured toward him. "You're just a banished prince. No home. No allies. Not even your own crew respects you. You have nothing, Zuko."

Zuko's jaw clenched so hard it was a wonder his teeth didn't crack. "You're wrong," he growled. "Once I deliver the Avatar to my father, he will welcome me back with honor. I'll regain my rightful place on the throne!"

He was confident that he would be welcomed home if he could only bring the Avatar to his father, thinking that he would be praised and rewarded for his accomplishments. He imagined himself being given accolades and showered with honors.

Zhao chuckled darkly, shaking his head. "You really believe that, don't you?" He cast a brief, almost dismissive glance at Lixin before returning his full attention to Zuko. "You could have had allies, Zuko. You had the chance to make powerful allies right here."

He gestured toward Lixin with a sweeping hand.

"You could have had the support of General Lixin, the most powerful and strategic mind in the Fire Nation. He could have been the key to restoring your honor. But instead, you push everyone away. You throw it all away — the opportunity. So what now?"

Zhao's voice dropped into a low, mocking tone. "Now, I'll claim that alliance for myself.

Who he associate with makes a world of difference. Powerful allies can provide him with resources, support, and a certain level of clout. He have influential individuals on his side, he is having an ace up his sleeve. They can open doors, pull strings, and make things happen that might otherwise be out of his reach.

Zhao's smirk deepened, and he turned to Lixin with a slight bow, full of false respect. "We will capture the Avatar, General, in your name of course. Together, we'll ensure Zuko stays nothing more than a wandering, forgotten prince."

Zuko's eyes widened in disbelief, and he felt his chest tighten. "You can't—"

Zhao cut him off with a wave of his hand. "Why not? Lixin isn't bound to you. He chooses where his loyalty lies. And clearly, he sees no future with you."

Zuko's fists clenched so tightly that his nails bit into his palms. His voice trembled with frustration and anger. "My father—"

"Your father?" Zhao interrupted, raising an eyebrow. "If your father truly wanted you home, Zuko, he would have let you return by now. Avatar or no Avatar." He leaned in closer, his voice turning icy. "But in his eyes, you're nothing but a failure. A disgrace."

Struggling with some serious daddy issues. The way Zuko obsesses over his father's approval, or lack thereof, is just a glaring neon sign. Every time he fails, he blames himself for not living up to the impossible standards his father has set for him. The kid can't even sneeze without feeling like he's letting his dad down.

Zuko's voice broke slightly as he replied, "That's not true."

Zhao's eyes flicked to Zuko's scar, his voice a cruel whisper. "You have the mark to prove it."

Disgraced by a scar is to be branded, marked for life as a symbol of failure. And the worst part is, there's no hiding it, no way to erase it from memory. Scars are forever.

Zuko's restraint snapped. With a cry of fury, he lunged forward, shoving his chair aside and standing nose-to-nose with Zhao. Their faces were inches apart, their breaths mingling in the tension-filled air. "Maybe you'd like one to match!" Zuko roared, his fists trembling with the desire to strike.

Did he really say that? Or was it just a product of his frustration and anger? It was hard to tell. There's a fine line between speaking from the heart and spewing out words, maybe he was just speaking from a place of passion rather than malice...

Zhao's smile widened, his tone mocking. "Is that a challenge?" He cocked his head, amused. "I've heard about your sparring match with Lixin. It didn't go well for you, did it? And it wasn't even a real duel. You couldn't even hold your own in a practice fight, and now you think you can beat me? You didn't stand a chance."

The general relayed the tale to him: how Zuko had sparred with Lixin, only to be completely outmaneuvered and humiliated, that must have been a painful experience for the young prince, his pride shattered and his ego bruised. To be defeated and humiliated in a public display of combat is a blow to any warrior's honor.

"I made a mistake!" Zuko snapped. "It won't happened again!"

or is it?

Zhao's grin widened even further, his voice dripping with scorn. "Mistakes are all you know, Zuko. You say that, but all I hear is empty words. All bark and no bite." He paused, watching Zuko's face contort in rage. "But if you're so eager to be humiliated again..."

Zuko's eyes narrowed, and he gritted his teeth and cut him off. "I know! Agni Kai. At sunset."

Zhao raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised by Zuko's challenge, but his surprise quickly melted into amusement.

"Very well," he said slowly, savoring the words. He straightened up,"It's a shame your father won't be here to watch me humiliate you, destroy what little pride you have left" Zhao smirked, turning to leave. "I guess your uncle will have to do."

Zhao reached the tent's entrance and turned one last time, his eyes flicking to Lixin. "And of course, General Lixin, if you care to watch the prince's final humiliation and his defeat, you're welcome to join. Though I imagine your time would be better spent preparing for our hunt."

"After all, you're free to leave whenever you wishes."

Zhao pushed the tent flaps aside and left, the smirk never leaving his face. Inside, the tension was suffocating. Zuko stood trembling with anger, his chest heaving as his fists remained clenched. Iroh, ever the voice of reason, stepped closer to his nephew.

"Prince Zuko," He said, his voice soft but full of concern. "Have you forgotten what happened the last time you dueled a master?"

Zuko's face darkened, his eyes narrowing as he stared into the fire. "I will never forget."

Lixin, who had remained silent throughout most of the exchange, finally spoke up.

"Well," he said casually, adjusting his robes, "my business here is done. I think it's time I take my leave."

Zuko spun around, his fury now directed at Lixin. "You're not leaving!" he snapped, the command falling from his lips before he could stop it.

He is not going anywhere until the Agni Kai, he wasn't going to let him leave until this crucial match was complete. This was a matter of honor, no matter how much the general have wanted to leave.

Lixin's eyes flashed with amusement. "Too bad, Zuko."

"I don't take orders from you." He turned toward the exit, his steps unhurried. "Good luck with your Agni Kai. You'll need it."

With that, Lixin turned on his heel and strode out of the tent, leaving Zuko standing there, seething with frustration. Zuko's heart raced. It wasn't just Zhao he had to contend with anymore. Now it was Lixin too. The walls were closing in on him, and he couldn't shake the feeling that everything was slipping out of his control. His fists trembled, and a storm brewed in his chest. He couldn't afford to lose—not now.

How could he fix this? How could he make things right when everything seemed to be slipping further and further out of his control?

As Lixin left, Zuko stood rooted in place, his chest heaving with frustration and rage. Everything was crumbling around him.

SCENE 4 — LEAVING THE HARBOR

Lixin had finally finished climbing the vessel, the rough texture of the ladder giving way to the solid deck beneath his feet. A wave of accomplishment surged through him. The ship was done. Every plank, every nail, meticulously placed under his command. Now, with the ship finally complete, he could focus on the exhilarating prospect of what came next. A grin spread across his face as he surveyed the deck, the weight of his achievement settling in. Freedom. He was free to do anything he desired, and the ship's capabilities were limitless in his hands.

With a mischievous glint in his eye, he muttered under his breath, "Anything I want, huh? I like the sound of that."

The crew had already assembled in neat lines, their rigid formations contrasting against the stillness of the partially empty deck. Most of the crew, no doubt, were scattered inside the ship—tending to tasks, engaging in idle chatter, or awaiting further instructions from their superiors.

The helmsman, standing tall amidst the crew, cleared his throat and called out, "We are prepared and ready to carry out the order, er... General. Shall we proceed?"

Lixin turned toward him, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Proceed? You sound eager, helmsman. But eager men make careless mistakes." He paused, letting the tension rise just a bit before smiling faintly. "Before we set sail, I want a full report on our vessel's condition. We mustn't act like reckless fools who forget to check for leaks or supplies, like those poor souls navigating the seas on rotting rafts. I want a thorough examination of the ship—no careless mistakes."

He knew well that a well-prepared crew was the key to a successful voyage. The last thing they needed was to be stranded in the middle of the ocean due to a preventable blunder.

The helmsman straightened even more, his nervousness barely concealed. "Understood, sir. I'll see to it that everything is in perfect order."

"Good," Lixin replied, his tone sharpening. "The last thing I need is this ship stranded because someone couldn't be bothered to double-check a supply list."

If the ship was stranded at sea, with no hope of rescue, the last resort would be to scuttle the vessel. While not an ideal scenario, it is the ultimate plan Z.

The helmsman snapped to attention again. "Affirmative, sir," he responded crisply, then turned and barked out orders to the crew. The men scattered quickly, setting about their tasks with renewed urgency.

As they moved, Lixin's mind buzzed with thoughts. He had meticulously researched the ship before boarding, memorizing every detail he could find. Something had nagged at him, though. A discrepancy.

"Helmsman," Lixin called out, his voice steady but demanding, "before I came on board, I read a... Another report. There seems to be an anomaly concerning the amount of blasting jelly stored on this vessel. Can you confirm this?"

He just wants to confirm things, that's all. He's just seeking confirmation. He wants to make sure that things are the way that they seem, that there are no hidden surprises. It's a simple request, really. Just a little reassurance, that's all he needs. And once he has that reassurance, he'll be satisfied. He'll move on with his day, without any doubts or anxieties.

The helmsman's eyes widened, but he quickly masked his reaction. "Blasting jelly, sir? I—yes, I can confirm that we have... well, quite a lot of it."

Lixin raised an eyebrow. "Quite a lot? That's not very specific. How much is quite a lot?"

The day getting stranger and it will never stop.

The helmsman hesitated, glancing around before answering. "More than enough to sink a fleet, sir. I'll show you."

Without waiting for a response, the helmsman led Lixin to the hatch near the center of the deck. With practiced ease, he pulled it open, revealing a narrow ladder leading down into the belly of the ship. Lixin followed, his pulse quickening, anticipation coursing through his veins. He wasn't sure if it was excitement or unease that fueled him.

As they descended, the helmsman spoke quickly, as if to explain away any concerns. "You see, General, we've been outfitted with more firepower than any other vessel in the fleet. The blasting jelly is stored safely, I assure you, and the crew is well-trained to handle it."

Lixin sigh, not really interested to hear such matters.

"Well-trained or not," he interjected, "having that much blasting jelly on board sounds like a disaster waiting to happen. How are we supposed to navigate without worrying about one wrong move blowing us all to pieces?"

The helmsman cleared his throat, clearly uncomfortable. "It's... not as dangerous as it sounds, sir. The storage compartments are reinforced, and there are safety measures in place. Nothing will go wrong."

"You sound confident," Lixin replied, his voice dropping to a menacing calm, "but confidence can only go so far when you're surrounded by explosives."

The dim corridor stretched before them as they descended. The air was thick with the faint smell of oil and metal, the rhythmic hiss and clank of the steam engine reverberating through the walls. Their footsteps echoed ominously in the confined space, and the once-chatter between them fell silent, leaving only the sound of their breaths to fill the void.

At last, they arrived. The helmsman pushed open the heavy door, and what lay beyond made Lixin's breath catch.

"Wow..." The word slipped out before he could stop it.

The room was packed—every inch of it. Barrels upon barrels of blasting jelly were stacked from floor to ceiling, the volatile substance filling the storage space with a chilling weight. Lixin's heart raced as he realized the extent of the ship's arsenal.

"Yes, sir..." The helmsman looked sheepish, scratching the back of his head. "As you can see, the storage is fully stocked. We've got more blasting jelly than any other ship out there, just as you ordered. This ship is... loaded, to say the least."

Lixin narrowed his eyes, suspicion creeping into his voice. "Just as I ordered? I don't remember asking to turn this ship into a floating bomb."

This is not a battleship, and anyone who thinks otherwise is utterly wrong. It's filled with blasting jelly, which could be set off like a cluster bomb. And if that happens, the entire ship would explode, creating a disaster that would make a war zone look tame in comparison. The blast would be heard for miles around, the shockwave could shatter windows and cause serious damage to nearby buildings. Debris would fly through the air like shrapnel...

The helmsman blinked, caught off guard. "Well, sir, the, uh, recommendations came from your strategic team. They wanted to ensure we had enough firepower for any scenario."

Firepower? We'll, maybe...

"Enough firepower?" Lixin snapped, raising his voice. "This isn't firepower. This is insanity! One spark, and we'll be vaporized! We'll be a kaboomsville in no time!"

Imagine the scene - all those barrels of blasting jelly crammed into their limited storage, waiting to ignite at the slightest provocation. At the wrong moment, the result would be catastrophic

The helmsman swallowed hard, clearly out of his depth. "I... assure you, everything has been done with the utmost caution. The blasting jelly is secured, and our crew is trained to handle it. There's no real danger."

Lixin took a step closer, his tone icy. "No real danger? Helmsman, do you realize what you're saying? We have firebenders on this ship. Firebenders! If one of them sneezes the wrong way, we'll go up in flames faster than a lit fuse!"

Maybe... One barrel falls, and all hell breaks loose— a chain reaction in a comedy of errors, leading to a series of unfortunate events. Before they even know it, everything is destroyed in a blaze of glory. No one wants to be responsible for the next great inferno, especially when it starts with a simple sneeze.

The helmsman flinched at Lixin's words, his nervousness plain. " I—I—"

Lixin waved him off, his frustration bubbling over. "And another thing," he ranted, looking around the narrow halls, "who designed this ship? These compartments are a mess! It is like a maze! We've got zigzagging hallways leading nowhere. It's based on the Empire-class ship, but they made it wider, longer—whoever design this must have been completely out of their mind!"

He threw his hands up in frustration, pacing. The ship's design was not only dangerous but impractical. Navigating it would be a nightmare. Whoever came up with it clearly hadn't spent much time at sea.

The helmsman's brow furrowed slightly as the words sank in. After an uncomfortable silence, he spoke, his voice almost apologetic. "You, sir..."

He was the fool the whole time, huh? What an embarrassment! The smartest person in the room was actually the dumbest. How awkward must he feel right now, realizing that he's been the butt of the joke all along.

Lixin froze mid-step, his face flushing slightly. He took a deep breath, forcing himself to maintain his composure. Finally, with a resigned sigh, he responded, "Fair enough..."

SCENE 5 — MEETING THE WARRIOR

LOCATION: KYOSHI ISLAND

The vessel had already set its sails and left port by nightfall, eager to embark on their journey. As the hours passed, the ship idled in the middle of the night, waiting for the deepest darkness to cloak their movements. The crew sat in silence, anticipation thick in the air. They would soon start their mission, determined to uncover the Avatar's whereabouts before the break of dawn.

Lixin stood at the ship's helm, his sharp gaze sweeping across the dark horizon. His mind was elsewhere—already piecing together his next move. The crew, still groggy but attentive, gathered around him. Their whispered conversations fell silent as Lixin cleared his throat.

"Alright, listen up," Lixin's voice sliced through the stillness. "We can't keep wandering around like lost turtle ducks — staring at the skies through telescopes. I've thought it over, and I'm sure I know where the Avatar's headed."

The crew exchanged doubtful glances. One of them, a gruff sailor, raised an eyebrow. "And where might that be?"

Lixin grinned, confidence radiating from him. "Kyoshi Island."

The crew fell silent, confusion written across their faces. Another crewmember, a middle-aged man with a scar across his cheek, spoke up. "Kyoshi Island? Why there?"

Lixin crossed his arms, leaning casually against the railing. "Think about it. The Avatar can commune with his past lives. If the kid's lost or in need of guidance, who better to turn to than Avatar Kyoshi? Her island offered an adequate protection, and the Avatar's been known to seek refuge there before. It's obvious."

The crew murmured, slowly warming to the idea. They nodded, considering the logic behind Lixin's plan.

"You're right," one of them finally said, excitement building. "We've wasted enough time. Let's head there and take him down!"

The crew was starting to rally, their energy rising as they prepared for action. But Lixin raised a hand, his expression hardening. "No. I'm going in alone."

The sudden declaration stunned them. The same sailor who'd spoken earlier frowned, stepping forward. "Alone? That's suicide. We're stronger together."

Lixin shook his head. "I don't need a whole squadron drawing attention. I'll be faster on my own. You stay here and keep the ship hidden. If I run into trouble, you'll be our fallback. Got it?"

His voice left no room for argument. The crew reluctantly fell silent, though the tension was palpable. Before anyone could protest again, Lixin turned and, with a swift leap, disappeared over the side of the ship, vanishing into the mist.

...

By the time Lixin made it through the dense jungle, the first light of dawn was creeping over the horizon, casting a golden hue over Kyoshi Island, warm light over the wild terrain. And yet, what is he doing? Trespassing into the neutral states, no less — specifically, Kyoshi Island and he's doing so wearing none other than the armor of the Fire Nation, boldly showcasing his affiliation. It's like he has a death wish or something!

As he ventured deeper into the forest, a faint rustling behind him made him pause. His instincts kicked in—he wasn't alone. A smirk played on his lips as he casually bent a small flame between his fingers, letting it flicker in the still air. Whoever was following him didn't concern him in the slightest. He remains unperturbed and nonchalant. In fact, he even bent fire and played with it, as if the threat lurking in the shadows isn't even worth his attention.

He's either insanely confident in his own abilities, or he's just a lunatic.

Suddenly, without warning, figures dropped from the trees around him. The Kyoshi Warriors, garbed in their green and gold, surrounded him with seamless precision. Their war fans at the ready, they moved like shadows, deadly and silent.

Lixin raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "Well, well. Not bad for an ambush," he said, his voice laced with amusement. "But you'll have to do better than sneaking up on me."

The warriors didn't respond. In perfect sync, they lunged at him, their movements fluid and precise. But Lixin was faster. He sidestepped, his body twisting effortlessly between their strikes. He ducked under one fan swipe, rolled beneath another, and slid between two warriors, narrowly avoiding their attacks.

"You ladies really thought this would work?" he taunted as he darted through their formation, his hand clasps behind him. "I've seen toddlers with more coordination."

A Kyoshi Warrior, her face set in a hard mask of concentration, swung her fan at his side. Lixin blocked it with a mere hand, and he raised his foot to kick her own, the force knocking her back a step.

"Nice try," he quipped, his smirk widening. "But I'm still standing."

The warrior gritted her teeth, her eyes narrowing in frustration. She wasn't about to let him get away with his arrogance. She dashed forward, her movements a blur, and swung at his head, aiming for a knockout blow. Lixin ducked just in time, her fan slicing through the air above him.

"Oh, close! But not quite," he teased, spinning on his heel and delivering a swift kick to her side, knocking her off balance. She staggered, glaring at him as he laughed.

Another warrior rushed in from behind, hoping to catch him off guard. But Lixin was ready. He turned and unsheathed his blade, drawing an attack on her feet, forcing her to jump back.

"You're making this too easy," he said, almost bored. "Where's the challenge?"

But before he could make another quip, one of the Kyoshi Warriors who is stoic, had yet to engage—stepped forward. Her stance was more grounded, her gaze unflinching. She wasn't playing games.

With a sudden burst of speed, she lunged at him, her fan slicing through the air with deadly precision. Lixin moved to block, but her strike was too fast. The edge of her fan grazed his cheek, barely drawing a thin line of blood.

Lixin's smirk faltered for a split second. "Alright," he muttered, wiping the blood with the back of his hand. "Looks like I finally have your attention."

The warrior didn't respond. She merely pressed forward, her attacks coming in rapid succession. Lixin deflected each one with his blade, but she was relentless, not giving him an inch of space. Her skill was far beyond the others.

"Finally," he breathed, sidestepping another strike. "A real fight."

He retaliated with a sweeping kick, a dirt trailing in its wake as he tried to catch her off guard. She dodged, but just barely, her fan spinning to block his next attack. The two clashed, a steel meeting in a dazzling display of skill and precision.

For a moment, Lixin gains the upper hand, literally, he has a handful of substances on his palm. Then he sent a concentrated splash of dirt straight toward her eye — INTO HER FACE! forcing her to leap back. But as she landed, her foot caught on a tree root, and she stumbled.

"You'll have to do better than that!" he taunted, spinning away from one warrior and darting through a gap in their formation. "I just found a loophole in your defense. Amateurs!"

She looked up in disbelief, quivering with shock, blinking multiple times as her vision is temporarily rendered useless...

"Dirt?! Seriously?" She cries out, tears welling up in her eyes. her words almost getting caught in her throat. She touched her face, trying to get rid of the dirt on her eyes, smudging the war paint on her cheeks. The dirt was sticking to her skin, refusing to budge. She tried to wipe it off with her hands, but it only made it worse.

Her face flushed with anger, narrowed her eyes. Her brow twitched in irritation at his smugness. Lixin had underestimated her resolve, and she wasn't going to let him off easy.

Upon regaining her balance and composure, she dashes at him, but he dodged to the side, letting her momentum carry her forward—straight into her comrades. She crashed into them, sending the entire group into disarray.

Lixin chuckled darkly. "Ooh, that's gotta hurt."

The remaining Kyoshi Warriors exchanged bewildered glances. Their leader, their pillar of strength, had just been outmaneuvered by a single Fire Nation soldier. And not a single blow had landed on him yet. It was as if they were fighting air.

Lixin crouched beside the fallen warrior, who was still shaking off the dizziness from her tumble. "You alright?" he asked, his tone surprisingly gentle.

She gave no response at the moment, but then nodded, however, her glare told him not to get too comfortable.

"Look," he said, holding up his hands in a mock surrender. "I'm not here to cause trouble. I'm just passing through, hoping to... find something interesting. Maybe we can be friends?"

He extended a hand, a playful smile on his lips. The Kyoshi Warrior stared at him incredulously. Was he serious?

Before she could respond, one of her comrades, seizing the opportunity, lunged from behind and swept Lixin's legs out from under him. He hit the ground hard, the air knocked from his lungs, his smirk replaced by a look of genuine surprise.

He lay there for a moment, stunned, staring up at the sky. The Kyoshi Warriors circled him, their fans poised for another strike.

"Okay, okay," he groaned, rubbing the back of his head. "I guess I deserved that."

He's an absolute idiot, he thinks to himself...

Then, two Kyoshi Warriors simultaneously pulled Lixin by the legs, and pounced on him, pinning him against the tree. With swift and expert moves, they swiftly tied him up, leaving him helpless. Moments later, the female warriors were panting hard, clearly spent from the effort, one of them helping their leader stand up.

With Lixin now restrained, he sputtered, struggling against his binds. "You guys look like you've been doing heavy lifting, moving a boulder or something..."

The girl shot him a look, wiping dirt from her brow. "You really don't know when to shut up, do you?"

They unsheathed his blade from its hilt. He stood there, looking astonished, as if he couldn't believe that they would actually take his weapon away from him. He furrowed his eyebrows, "What exactly are you doing, taking my weapon?"

The girl replied irritatedly, "It's better to be safe than sorry. We're not risk any accidents or mishaps. It would be a wise decision to take your weapon away."

She concerned about the potential danger it posed and just wanted to avoid any accidents or incidents that could arise from being in the presence of a weapon. it was better to be on the side of safety than to leave anything to chance.

"Ugh, really?" Lixin muttered, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "This is how you're treating a guest?"

"You aren't a guest, you are the trespasser" she fired back

Lixin raised an eyebrow. "Afraid of a little fire, huh?"

The warrior ignored him, though her grip tightened slightly on his shoulder. "Or afraid of whatever else you're hiding up those sleeves of yours."

Lixin chuckled, shaking his head. "Hiding? Me? Please. If I wanted to burn you all, you'd already be ash."

From a distance, there comes a clear, audible cough and a "ahem" filling the air. It's enough to capture anyone's attention, and soon enough, two distinctive figures emerge. The first, a female, followed by a bearded old man known. They are making their presence known in the most traditional way possible.

The lady looked at them pitifully, her eyes fixed on Lixin who shifted uncomfortably under her gaze. Then, she said, "Suki, I see that you've been struggling to subdue..." Her eyes wandered towards Lixin again, before she continued. "This... Fire Nation man..."

Suki stiffened, feeling a pang of defensiveness. Her mind raced, where was she going with this?

She tried to speak up, trying to offer an explanation. "Mother," she pleaded, "I can explain—..."

But Yukari dismissing her daughter, speaking calmly. "I've seen enough," she said. She continued to speak with a steady, matter-of-fact tone, "I've observed the scene — all of you are having a hard time... I haven't seen something like this before... Even more... his friends are nowhere to be found, so I expected that he came here on his own. It seems like it has been a solitary battle."

A frown creasing her brow. "During the exchange between the two parties, I didn't see any evidence of firebending, It's strange that the fight is lasting this long, like the war we're currently actively trying to avoid, especially without the use of any elements."

Suki clenched her jaw as a wave of shame washed over her. She felt utterly vulnerable and exposed. With a quiet and measured voice, shameful whisper, she murmured.

"He is so agile, we can't seem to land a single decent blow on him, and, to top it all off, he..." She waved her hand in a defensive gesture, irritatedly. The sting of her mother's words cut deep, irritation creeping in as she remembered the fight.

"He threw dirt in my eyes!" She gestured angrily toward Lixin.

Her opponent is so elusive, and to make matters even worse, they add insult to injury by getting dirt in her eyes, ugh, talk about nasty surprises.

Lixin interjected, this time with a tone that was nothing short of mischievous. "When the trouble troubles you..."

He grinning like a Cheshire cat. Suki shot him a glare in response, clearly not amused by his comment. But he didn't seem to mind, just continuing with his playful attitude. What was he up to now?

He was clearly enjoying himself. He teased her, "Oh, don't give me that look. It's not like it was a fair fight. Two on one and all I did was give you a little... help with your vision."

"Vision?" Suki spat, her voice incredulous. "You blinded me with dirt!"

"Details, details," Lixin said with casual as ever.

Oyaji, with his experienced eyes, looked at the young man suspiciously. He narrowed his gaze and declared: "This young man is definitely an infiltrator, period!" Without hesitation, he suggested, "I say we feed him to the Unagi. A quick and effective way to deal with an intruder!"

Lixin let out a cough and muttered, "Unagi? You mean—..."

But before he could finish, Suki cuts him off and confirms.

"Yes, that Unagi" She said coldly...

He raises an eyebrow, looking confused and alarmed at the same time.

"Wait a moment. You're telling me that a giant aquatic monster is just lurking around here?" he stutters in disbelief.

His words were met with a stony silence from the warriors. No one seemed particularly interested in answering his question.

No one cared for him, they were ready to throw him away like a piece of trash. But no one expected what happened next. Lixin, in a display of incredible power, unleashed a scorching blast of firebending from his body and burnt the ropes that bound him. The Kyoshi Warriors were stunned, taking several steps back as fhey adopted defensive stances.

Lixin, now free, roared with an intensity that belied his predicament. "You want a fight? Huh?! You want a fight so bad?!"

"Are you insane?!" Suki shouted, her grip tightening on her weapon. "You think fire will scare us?"

Lixin's grin widened, spoke with a menace. "It's not about scaring you, it's about burning down everything you care about. This jungle, these trees, your precious little warriors..."

He didn't stop there, he wasn't afraid to show it. "Hell! I don't mind burning this island to bits!"

He is the embodiment of menace...

"Well, bring it on! What can I say? You asked for it, my friend. I came here in the spirit of peace, only to be met with aggression and mindless violence. If you want to play it that way, fine. Fire away, I dare you. I burn this whole place down if I have to! I'm ready to match your savagery with my own. It's your call, but don't say I didn't warn you!"

In an instant, a small spark turned into a raging inferno. The fire spread rapidly, surrounding him in a circle of flames that were closing in on him — terrifying sight, all Kyoshi Warrior looked on in utter shock, their jaw dropped in disbelief. And Suki acknowledged the firebender was indeed not messing around.

Moral of the story here: Don't make him firebend...

Yukari, in an attempt to pacify him, said "Stop... I heard your grievances... what if I offered you our hospitality as compensation for your... difficult journey here?"

He was caught off guard. Why would she offer such a thing? It puzzled him, making him question her... Then Oyaji is ready to give his input, but she quickly shut him, cutting him off with a gesture.

She looked at Lixin and said, "Now, maybe we can discuss the reason for your visit here. Let's handle this peacefully. What do you think?"

Silence falls, only the crackle of the dying fire disturbs the tranquility of the morning. The flames gradually flicker out, leaving behind only charred remains of leaves and branches. The surroundings grow darker as if nature itself is mourning the extinguished fire. But then, Lixin breaking the silence with a weary resignation.

"Fine," he mutters, gazing at the remnants of the fire. "It's still better than being thrown into an Unagi."

He stands there, gazing upon the blade held by Suki.

"The only thing left is to reclaim what's rightfully mine: my blade." He leave no room for doubt. It's obvious that this blade holds a special meaning to him, a connection that goes beyond mere ownership.

He's not going to give up until he has it back in his hands, where it belongs.

Yukari looks upon her daughter, instructs, "Suki, returns the blade to him."

Suki, intially paused, begins to approach him, the sword held cautiously in her hands. She reaches him and hesitates for a moment, before extending her arms and offering the object back. He gently took it, and sheathed his blade into its hilt.

As soon as the atmosphere had returned to normal.. Yukari added with a firm but not hostile. "It would be best if we continued this discussion in the village," Pausing briefly, she continued, "But let me issue a warning. Any show of aggression will be met with immediate retaliation. We are not afraid of your earlier threats, in fact, we simply seek to handle this matter in a peaceful manner, as you yourself had suggested."

Lixin just couldn't take the situation seriously. He couldn't help but let out a frustrated sound.

"Tch," he said, rolling his eyes. "You're making it sound like it's the end of the world, when in reality, it'll just take me half a day to get here. No big deal... It's not like I'm hiking across Gaoling."

And so, he finds himself being escorted to the village, he's about to start some kind of quest, let's hope he's not being led into some kind of trap. Who knows what sinister plans the Kyoshi warrior have for him...

Oyaji huffed, clearly still suspicious. "A firebender waltzing into Kyoshi Island and expecting us to believe he's here for peaceful reasons? I've heard worse lies from pirates."

Lixin smirked. "Believe what you want, old man. But I'm telling you, I came here for answers, not a fight. You're the ones who started swinging."

Suki crossed her arms, eyeing him warily. "Answers to what?"

Lixin met her gaze evenly. "You'll find out soon enough."

And with that, his mind already calculating his next move.

SCENE 6 — PRIVILEGE

Lixin feels a bit self-conscious, sitting under the scrutiny of Yukari, who is carefully studying his face. He feels a little awkward, knowing that Suki, is watching him as well, he is like being put on the spot by a group of art critics, judging his every feature. Hopefully, they don't find any flaws in his appearance, or worse, Fire Nation, unless they're into the rugged, imperfect look.

Her eyes narrowed as she observed Lixin with a steady, almost icy gaze.

"It's been a long time since we've had visitors, and for good reason." She convey the weight of history in the syllables. The warriors, standing tall on one side, flanked the table where the village elders sat in quiet agreement.

Opposite them at the team, there was an air of expectation among the villagers—each one leaning just slightly forward, curious yet cautious. Yukari's gaze swept the room, lingering for a moment on the weary faces of the elders. They knew this speech well, but its gravity never lessened.

"For a hundred years, Kyoshi Island has remained safe from the ravages of war by keeping to ourselves," she continued, her voice growing softer but more intense, "We've built our lives away from the chaos, away from the pain the world brings. It is not a luxury. It is a necessity."

Lixin, seated across from her, let out an exaggerated yawn, breaking the somber mood with a wave of indifference.

"Oh yeah, good story..." he said sarcastically, folding his arms across his chest.

Yukari's face hardened for a moment, her eyebrows twitching slightly. The crackle of tension now magnified by Lixin's careless words. The warriors in the room shifted uncomfortably, hands hovering near their weapons as if awaiting his next move.

Instead of rising to anger, Yukari's lips curved into a thin smile, sharp as the edge of a blade. "Perhaps the significance is lost on you, stranger," she said quietly, her voice taking on a razor-like quality. "But to us, this isn't a story. It's survival."

Her eyes met Lixin's, unflinching. "We expect the outside world to do the same," she added, her expression now daring him to challenge the island's history again.

The room remained silent for a beat, leaving Lixin momentarily without a witty retort.

Yukari's eyes remained fixed on Lixin, unblinking. The fire in her gaze was unmistakable now.

"As I said," she began again, this time slower, each word deliberate, "Kyoshi Island has kept itself safe for a hundred years. Not by luck, not by chance, but by choice. By making sure the world stays at arm's length."

Lixin leaned forward, cocky expression, half-smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "And what happens if someone decides to, you know, close the gap?"

He gestured lazily, as if brushing aside the entire island's defenses with a flick of his wrist.

Yukari's eyes flashed, but her voice remained steady. "Then they will find themselves face to face with something much older, much stronger than they could ever imagine. This island was built on the strength of Kyoshi herself. Her spirit lingers in every stone, every wave that crashes on our shores."

Lixin's smirk didn't falter, but his eyes sharpened. "Big words," he muttered, glancing around the room. "But words are all they are, right? A hundred years, you said? The world's changed. Do you really think your little island can keep up?"

The warriors in a room shifted at his words, a sign of their displeasure. One of them, standing closest to Lixin, clenched their jaw, their grip tightening on the hilt of their weapon.

Before anyone else could speak, Yukari raised a hand, a small but firm gesture that silenced the room. Her eyes bore into Lixin's, unyielding.

"We've had no need to change," she said coolly. "We've survived without bending to the will of others, without getting dragged into pointless conflicts. While the rest of the world wages war, we remain untouched."

Lixin chuckled softly, leaning back again. "Untouched, huh? Sounds more like hiding to me."

Yukari didn't flinch, though the fire in her eyes blazed hotter. "It's called wisdom. Unlike you, we don't go looking for trouble. We understand what true strength is—not arrogance, not bravado. It's knowing when to fight and when to stay still."

Lixin crossed his arms, his smirk now gone. "And what happens when trouble finds you? When someone decides to test that 'wisdom' of yours?"

Yukari leaned forward, her voice dropping to a whisper that seemed to carry across the room, commanding everyone's attention. "Then they will meet the legacy of Kyoshi. And they will not walk away."

For the first time, Lixin's smirk faltered. He shifted slightly in his seat, but he wasn't one to back down so easily. "Sounds like a threat"

Yukari's lips curled into a smile, but there was no warmth in it.

"It's a promise." She straightened, addressing not just Lixin now but everyone in the room. "Kyoshi's spirit still watches over this island. Her warriors remain vigilant. We are not afraid of war, but we choose peace. Do not mistake our choice for weakness."

The villagers, the warriors, even the elders remained still, watching Yukari and Lixin.

Lixin finally replied, his voice a little softer now, though his bravado hadn't completely disappeared. "Well, I guess we'll see about that."

Yukari's gaze didn't waver. "Yes, we will... Then who are you working for?"

Lixin frowned at the question, as if the answer was obvious.

"Pardon?" he replied, no point in asking the obvious, especially when his affiliations were crystal clear as ever.

There was a moment of silence, an expectant pause in the air. All eyes were on her, waiting in anticipation, then, finally, she clarified. "specifically"

Lixin sighs, feeling frustrated...

"Fine, I'm doing my own bidding." he declared boldly "I'm not swayed by the commands of the Fire Nation or its Fire Lord, nor will I follow anyone else's orders. I will make my own decisions and forge my own path, regardless of what others may think or say."

He was acting like it was no big deal, hypocrite is real, but those who knew him well could see that he was holding something back.

"I'm just settling here for a day or two," he said, "I just want to set up a temporary outpost so I can take a look at the change in wind direction. Nothing more, nothing less."

His tone is casual, but something indicated that there was something more beneath the surface, that there was a deeper purpose to his actions. Yukari feels something off...

Two days? That is unbelievable...

"Wind direction?..." She questioned him, but who is she to judge?

Lixin exclaimed, "It is a simple fact that all ships are vulnerable to adverse effects from wind while maneuvering in the sea. What I have said earlier is not such a far-fetched notion."

He has to fake his story, he shouldn't spread the information about the Avatar like a maniac...

But this man has a point. The laws of physics certainly apply to ships, after all. Anyone who has studied aerodynamics or maritime engineering knows that air and wind resistance can greatly impact the performance of a ship while it's at sea.

"You can't just settle in on our island as though you own the place!" Suki's voice cut through the air harshly, her eyes fixed on the unwelcome visitors with a sharp, penetrating gaze. "This island is our home, our sanctuary. You can't just waltz in here and act like you have the right to set up shop!"

Yukari gave her daughter a silent glare, a look that clearly stated — Be quiet and don't interrupt.

Suki immediately understood her mother's gaze and quieted down, recognizing that it was not her place to disrupt the discussion. She knew that it was important to keep the focus on the matter at hand.

Yukari spoke up with a stern tone, "If you mean no harm, then I have no grounds to stop you."

She paused for a moment, her gaze piercing.

"But..." she continued, "let me be clear. Any sign of provocation and your privilege to stay here will be revoked immediately and without warning. You will no longer be a welcome presence, and the consequences will be severe."

Her warning will not be taken lightly. But Lixin doesn't care.

"Yeah, yeah, I get it." He stood up, nodded as if he heard all of this before...

Then he turned on his heel and walked out the exit, leaving everyone in the room dumbfounded by his audacity. No further explanation was given, just an enigmatic nod and a swift exit. The people left behind were left in a state of shock and silence.

What an outrageous display of arrogance!

"That young man," Yukari commented, "He expressed audacity, boldness and a care-free casualness."

She observed him closely, noticing how he carried himself with a sense of bold confidence. He had a certain casualness about him, as if the world held no fears or worries. His audacity was apparent in his unwavering determination and his tendency to take calculated risks. This young man was not one to shy away from expressing his thoughts.

Suki asked, her brow furrowed in concern, "Then... what should we do next? We can't just let him run amok... Right?"

They couldn't afford to make mistakes—not with someone as unpredictable as Lixin roaming free. Her gaze shifted to Yukari, seeking guidance, but also validation for her growing unease.

Yukari stood tall, her eyes narrowing as she considered the situation. There was a flicker of distrust in her eyes—a distrust that had long been brewing, every fiber of her being rejected the notion of allowing Lixin, the embodiment of chaos and reckless abandon, to roam unchecked.

"No," Yukari replied firmly, shaking her head with a cold, measured certainty. "We can't."

The undercurrent of suspicion was impossible to miss, she added. "That's why I want you to keep an eye on him, Suki. Lixin's trouble comes not from brute force but from his unpredictability. And we can't let that fester into something more dangerous."

The gravity of her decision settling between them. It wasn't just a command—it was a necessary safeguard, a precaution born out of a deeper mistrust that Yukari couldn't shake.

Suki straightened, her expression shifting from worry to resolve. "Yes, Mother," she said quietly, bowing her head slightly, it wasn't a simple task, but Suki knew it was necessary. Lixin's antics had caused enough chaos already, and if there was one thing Suki prided herself on, it was her discipline.

As she rose from the bow, her eyes met Yukari's. The unspoken understanding passed between them: Lixin was a force to be reckoned with, and now it was on Suki to keep him in line.

CHAPTER 2 — IDIOT GENERAL IN THE SOUTHERN SEAS

WORD COUNTS — 19k WORDS

TO BE CONTINUED