A great change was going through the world. Without the fire lord leading the troops, they returned to the Fire Nation, but they did so without knowing what was to come. It led to a tense sort of peace, but it was still peace and that mattered the most. Slowly, people from the Earth Kingdom were starting to return home. Their injuries were being treated and proper funerals were given for all the citizens who had lost their lives. The world itself felt strange, but it also felt hopeful. At least it was that way for most of the people. One was sitting in a cell, stuck in the dungeon of the Fire Nation palace. Ozai's head hung low with his hair covering some of his face. He had been down there exactly one week. The man counted to be sure that he did not lose track of the time. He had received no visitors outside of the guards who brought him his food. Even they did not look upon the man with anything resembling pity or compassion.
"My cousin was killed in his war," one of them had said. "This is what he deserves."
Ozai wanted to lash out at each of them, but without his fire, all he could do was listen. In surprise, he heard footsteps, but it was not time for dinner.
"You're early, aren't you?" he asked, glaring.
"I didn't know you were expecting me."
Ozai immediately tensed at the voice. It did not belong to a soldier. He lifted his eyes to see Iroh. The older man stood on the other side of the prison bars. The brothers remained in silence for several moments. Ozai broke it when he spat at the former general's feet. Iroh was not standing close enough for it to make contact. He knew his brother too well to have done anything else. Ozai sneered at him.
"You came here to mock me," he growled. "You wanted to see me rotting here like some criminal."
"That's not why I'm here."
Iroh bent down, pushing a small tray of tea into the cell. Ozai glanced at it with eyes full of suspicion.
"There are less predictable ways to poison people."
"I know you're very familiar with those ways, but it's not my intention to poison you."
"Then what is your intention?"
"I came to tell you about how Azula is doing."
At this, Iroh saw something change in Ozai's eyes. It was small, but some of the harshness had faded.
"Why would you tell me about her?"
"From one father to another, I believed you would care." He started to turn. "If I was wrong, I won't waste your time."
Ozai moved forward slightly. "You already disturbed me. It might as well not be for nothing."
Iroh stopped, glancing back at him. "She's healing. Some of the best healers, waterbenders, have overseen her treatment."
The younger man began scowling. "You put her in the hands of the enemy."
"If they were the enemy, they would have let her bleed out. She was in the process of doing that when Zuko and Sokka got to her."
Ozai was still scowling, but his eyes widened slightly. Iroh took a sip of his own tea.
"I suppose people can easily surprise us when we assume so little of them."
A scoff escaped the prisoner. "I never underestimated Zuko. He's been a disgrace from the day he was born and now, he's going to lead this nation to ruin."
Ozai waited for a response from Iroh. He wanted one. He wanted the man to give an impassioned argument for the prince. Ozai did not get what he wanted. It irritated him.
"You aren't going to disagree with me? Speak in his favor?"
Iroh calmly drank more of the beverage. "I'm quite sure you know my opinion of my nephew by now. I don't see the purpose in reminding you."
Ozai glared hatefully at him. "I do know. You've never liked the position he had in the family. You'll probably encourage him to use his weak firebending against me while I'm like this."
"In truth, I'd prefer if he never visited you, but I am sure that he will so that he can see how you're doing."
The prisoner's glare did not fade. "If you think he won't make the most of this opportunity, you're a fool."
"He's not you, Ozai. Isn't that what the problem has always been?"
Ozai's eyes widened slightly and he did not have anything to respond with. Deep down, he knew that Zuko would not come to the dungeon just to blast him with fire. He would not take pleasure out of causing harm to befall the prisoner. He was far too much like his mother and uncle for that. Ozai supposed he should be grateful, but the only thing he felt was bitterness.
"I would do it all over again," he stated. "My one change would be to act less mercifully."
Iroh finished the last of his tea, wishing he had a bit more for the walk back. "That is to be expected." He gestured to Ozai's tea which he had not touched. "The guards will collect that when you're done."
The prisoner saw that Iroh was about to leave and there was a part of him that did not want this to be the case.
"I'm sure you instructed the Avatar to kill me," he hissed. "You probably taught him lightning redirection just for him to use it that way. No doubt, you would have given anything for him to slay me in battle."
Something changed behind Iroh's eyes as he regarded his brother. "The only thing I would have wanted that badly was for Lu Ten to live a long, happy life. More death would not have brought him back."
"But it would have avenged him. Now, he'll never be avenged."
"I believe he has been."
"Impossible. I'm not dead."
"You don't have to be. The Fire Nation is becoming the way he envisioned it during his last days. I believe he would be happy with the way things are now. In this way, he lives on."
Ozai's eyes narrowed at Iroh. Leave it to him to make a hopeless situation seem positive. Still, there was a part of Iroh that wanted to berate Ozai for everything he had done. It could have been nice to point out how unwarranted so much of his behavior was. Iroh could have mocked him for how he had his son murdered, only to end up with less power than he had before. In spite of that, it was not in the man's heart to go that path. The peace in the world was contagious. He felt it as well. It was felt by anyone who allowed it to enter their spirits. Iroh began walking away from the cell.
"I won't be disturbing you again," he said.
"Will Azula be allowed to visit me?"
"That will be up to the fire lord."
Enmity could not have described the state Ozai was in. Zuko would be the one to decide what happened from now on. All the former leader's power had gone to him. He was stripped of everything that mattered. He had truly lost. While Ozai seethed, another brother was visiting his sibling. Azula had spent the week in the palace infirmary. Physically, she was fine, but the healers could not repair her mind. That was their main concern. Zuko walked to her room, seeing attendants talking. They bowed slightly when they saw him.
"How is she?" he asked.
"Still the same," one answered. "She won't touch any of her food.
Zuko frowned slightly and glanced at the tray in the person's hands. He accepted it, then went further, unlocking the door to enter. Inside, there was a bed and a chair. There was nothing else, but Azula did not care. The former princess did not respond to her brother's entrance. He placed the food by her and sat down.
"How's your injury doing?" he asked. "The bleeding stopped?"
Azula remained quiet.
"It seems pretty empty here. I could bring some scrolls for you if you want to read."
The girl still did not speak.
"We do this every day, Azula. Can you at least say something?"
At this, Azula turned to him. Her eyes were not filled with much of anything. She just looked lost.
"What's the point? I'm going to stay here until I'm deemed fit to rot in the dungeon with Dad. You just want to feel better about yourself first, so you visit."
"I'm here because I'm worried."
Azula turned to the door, eyes dead. "Don't you have bigger concerns now? You're going to be the fire lord soon." She swayed slightly. "Fire Lord Zuzu. It sounds weird."
The girl laid on her side, closing her eyes.
"The attendants say you aren't eating."
"Why should I?"
"You'll starve."
Azula did not respond and it said more than her words could.
"This isn't like you," Zuko commented, worried. "You seem so defeated."
Suddenly, Azula sat upright, glaring at him. "I was! Of all the ways, I was defeated by a stupid palace, then rescued by you and that peasant." With a swipe, she knocked the tray of food onto the ground with a clang. "There's no point in eating. There's no point in anything. The Avatar should've killed Dad and you should've left me to die. You're both cruel."
The prince looked at the spilled food and his sister. He had never seen her seem so distraught before. He could hardly recognize her.
"I wasn't going to send you to the dungeon," he quietly remarked.
Azula looked at him, but her spirits were too low for her to be suspicious. "Why weren't you? Aren't I a prisoner of war now?"
"I don't think of you that way."
Azula began to frown. "First, you don't order an execution for Dad, then you say I won't even be imprisoned. If you stay like this, the nation will never respect you."
"I won't try to be cruel, but I won't be a pushover either." The boy's brows furrowed as well. "Father's staying in that cell. I'm not letting him walk around freely even if he can't firebend anymore."
"So, is that how you'll keep order? If someone opposes you too badly, you'll have the Avatar take their bending and lock them away forever?"
Zuko sighed heavily, feeling irritated. "Why are you so determined that I have to be some tyrant?"
"Because you do. You seriously think that Dad or Grandfather would have allowed any of this?"
"No, I don't. If Father won, I know most of the world would already be ash right now. It probably wouldn't be different with Grandfather either."
"Or our great-grandfather."
"But that's why there needs to be a change." Zuko gestured to the door. "The royal family is even hated by Fire Nation citizens. It doesn't matter where we go. We're hated and it's our own fault." He glared at the ground. "For so long, this palace has just felt like one giant dungeon. I don't think it's been a home to any of us…not really. There was always some kind of fear over what would happen if we messed up. I think our great-grandfather started that. I'm sick of it. Let's end it."
"Let's?"
"Our family started all this suffering. We should be the ones who undo it too."
Azula started to regain some of that twinkle in her eyes. It was paranoid and lingered on Zuko.
"Do you actually trust me?"
"Not yet," the boy admitted. "After everything that's happened between us, it's hard to, but if Aang and the rest of us could end the war, nothing's impossible."
"What's your end goal in this? I just stop being who I am and get along with all of you like nothing ever happened?"
Zuko was quiet for a moment before shaking his head. "You don't have to stop being who you are. Just…you can be less like what Father tried to turn you into. I think that'll help a lot. It'll probably take a while, but we'll be here to help."
Azula regarded him in confusion. "You know I wouldn't have done this for you if I was going to become the fire lord."
"I know," Zuko admitted, slightly sad.
"That doesn't bother you?"
"It does, but I hope that'll change."
"Why should it change?" Azula questioned, standing up. She was frowning, but the expression did not seem angry so much as conflicted. "If my feelings about you were going to change, they would have when Dad kept attacking you. I would have helped you become a stronger firebender, so he'd be less disappointed, or I would have tried to convince him to be less angry. I at least wouldn't have enjoyed it, but none of that happened."
Zuko heard an odd note in the princess's voice. It was one that had never been there before. Guilt.
"None of it," she added. "Knowing Dad hated you meant more of his love would go to me. That never bothered me. It wasn't a problem until you were gone. Without you to compare, it was easier for him to see what I did wrong. I…"
The girl trailed off, sitting back down. She did not move when her brother joined her.
"Was scared?" Zuko offered.
Azula did not want to answer that. She felt too tired to lie and the truth was too embarrassing.
"I'd hear him sometimes when he'd attack you," she admitted. "I didn't ever want him to feel that way towards me…to act that way towards me."
"I get it," Zuko stated quietly. "I'd always get jealous when you two were around each other. I'd get jealous of you in general. The perfect princess. I hated watching Father praise you, then act like I didn't exist or come after at me. Sometimes, I even hated him."
"Did you hate me too? Do you?"
The boy sighed softly. "During the rougher times, I would. I don't anymore. I don't see you as another version of him now."
"What do you see me as?"
"Someone else he hurt."
Azula felt her throat becoming sore and she tensed in surprise when Zuko put an arm around her shoulder. The princess's head turned at a new sound. It was the door opening again. This time, Iroh entered. He took in the scene, seeing the spilled food and the embracing siblings. Iroh put his hands in his sleeves.
"A change of scenery can often lighten moods," he commented. "Your old chambers are waiting for you."
His tone was warm as he spoke. It surprised the girl. She was an enemy to them both. Why were they not treating her like one? If she had gone against Ozai half as much as she went against them…
"Is Dad going to be allowed to have visitors?" she asked.
Zuko thought over this, then nodded. "You can see him if you'd like as long as some guards are around."
This surprised Azula as well. An unfamiliar feeling was in her core. She gave a small nod of her head, then watched as Zuko joined Iroh by the door. They waited there for her. Azula started to leave with them…with her family. As the trio went there, another group was discussing plans. The Northern Water Tribe warriors and some from the Southern Tribe had returned home, but Sokka and his family remained. They had been provided with fine rooms in the palace. When Sokka first saw them, his eyes went wide and his jaw nearly hit the shiny floor. Even after a week, he was not used to it. The boy comfortably sat in a large, soft chair.
"I'm going to miss it here," he commented.
"You'll need extra blankets to recreate this when we're back in the igloo," Katara said, smirking slightly.
Surprised, Katara noticed that Sokka did not immediately respond. He had a thoughtful look on his face.
"Think we should head back already?"
"You don't?" she asked.
"Not really," he admitted, sitting upright. "The war just ended. There's going to be a lot of tension around the world. There'll be firebenders who probably get attacked just for being from the Fire Nation and some firebenders who try to creep into other territories to start fights."
"So, what do you want to do?" Aang asked, sitting near Katara.
"I think we should go around the world some more. You know, just to keep an eye on things."
The waterbender started to smile. "We could help people adjust to the changes everywhere."
"Yeah, we might even be able to stop some fights before they start."
Hope shone in Aang's eyes. "I like that plan. While we're at it, maybe we could restore the Air Temples too. One day, there could be more of us. This way, they'll have somewhere to live and our culture won't be forgotten."
Sokka grinned and nodded. "That too. See? We're not done. Our work's just getting started. We've got a bunch more to do."
"The work will probably never be done," Suki said, approaching the Water Tribe boy.
"Probably not."
A question was in his eyes which made the warrior smile. "Go on and ask."
"Am I that obvious?"
"Oh yeah."
Sokka stood up and held her hand. "Well, I think I made you a promise that when the war was over, I'd give you a grand tour of the world. Do you want to do that now?" He shooed his hand at the younger kids. "We can pretend like they're not here."
Aang made a sphere of air shoot over to him and Katara created a creature out of water with multiple legs.
"It'll be like we're not even here," the Avatar teased mimicking the water creature's wiggles.
Suki chuckled at the friends. "I'd love to."
She was given a happy hug by Sokka and returned the embrace. When they released each other, Sokka started going to an extended part of the room. It led to where Hakoda was. The chief sat, looking over maps. When he saw his son enter, he smiled, but it was full of a sense of knowing.
"Let me guess," he said, "you aren't ready to return?"
Sokka chuckled. "Okay, I've got to get better at this."
He went over and sat in a chair near the man. Peeking, he saw the maps as well.
"Those are of the Northern Tribe," he commented. "Did Chief Arnook give them to you?"
"He did. We're going to start making treaties to strengthen our alliances. We've been separate for too long. We hope this will encourage people from both tribes to interact more. There's a lot we can learn from those who are different from us." A warm smile covered Hakoda's face. "A certain person made me realize that."
"Must have been a genius," Sokka said jokingly.
"I agree."
A little surprised by the sincerity, Sokka felt a swell of pride in himself.
"Thanks, Dad."
Hakoda's smile saddened and he placed a hand on his shoulder. "When should I expect you both back?"
"Honestly, I don't know yet. I promise that we'll send word often. There's just a lot more to do out there and I think we can help."
The chief nodded, then gestured to the maps. He pulled out more, showing the rest of the world.
"When I was preparing to become chief, I studied as much as I could about other leaders. They all found their own way to do it. This could be your way. As you explore and learn more about and from people around the world, you'll be able to use that to your advantage. When it's time, you could be the best chief we've ever had."
"I hope so, but I'm glad I can also learn from the chief who has that title now."
Hakoda brought the young leader into an embrace. It was always difficult to let go, but he could not have been more proud of the people his children were becoming. Later that week, Iroh was helping Zuko prepare for a royal celebration. Also in the room, Sokka was leaning against a wall.
"Looking very royal," he complimented.
"Feeling very worried."
Sokka flicked his wrist and walked over, putting an arm around his friend's shoulder. "Don't be. If I could give a battle strategy to a group of chiefs, an unhinged king, and warriors, you can do this."
Zuko lifted an eyebrow. "You do realize this is going to last a lot longer than a few minutes, right?"
"Just until your kid gets a turn to lead," the younger boy joked.
The firebender did not laugh, but he smiled slightly.
"There, now, you look a bit less miserable," Sokka said. "Just work on showing a few more teeth and I'm sure the crowd will love you."
"Helpful as always."
"It's a gift." Sokka's smile turned more serious, but it remained sincere. "You're going to be a great fire lord. If anybody tells you differently, say that Sokka of the Southern Water Tribe supports you."
Zuko started to chuckle. "And that'll scare them into changing their minds?"
"Absolutely!" Sokka drew his blade fiercely. "I'll have you know that I'm very scary when I want to be. Just wait until I become chief. I'll be ready when the day comes. Never thought I'd say that, but you helped me. I'll be ready then and you're ready now. Besides, you'll get to brag about becoming an official leader first. So, I'm jealous."
Some of the nerves were starting to fade, then the trio heard a horn. It was time. Sokka gave his friend an encouraging smile and Iroh put a comforting hand on his shoulder. Taking a deep breath, Zuko went through the halls until he reached outside. There was a large crowd. Some of the people wanted change, some did not. Zuko knew both would exist and knew how he wanted to convince those who stood against him.
"Ten days ago," he said, "the Fire Nation retreated from nations it had invaded. That marked the end of the war, but I know there is a lot more to do. We can never bring back the lives that were lost, but we can still repair the cities that were touched by the war. As fire lord, I want to bring in an era of peace and unity. Each group can benefit from working and building together. It's time we started doing this." Determination shone in the new ruler's eyes. "We might be four nations, but we're one world."
Zuko knelt down and a great feeling of responsibility washed over him when the head piece was placed in his hair.
"I present to you," the officiator said, "Fire Lord Zuko!"
Cheers came from the audience. Familiar voices drew Zuko's attention to his friends who were seated in the front row. They looked proud of him and he felt that pride as well. That evening, they all went to a tea shop at the suggestion of Iroh. They were able to talk, drink, eat, and laugh. It was amazing to be able to do this without the threat of danger around every corner. Sokka shared his plans with his friend, then Toph punched Zuko's arm.
"But you're not getting rid of me that easily," she said, grinning.
The fire lord rubbed the spot. "I hope you don't expect me to make you a bodyguard."
Toph made a face, shaking her head. "No, I'll leave that to your girlfriend."
She could not see the blush on her friend's or Mai's faces, but she smiled as she felt their hearts beat faster.
"I think Uncle Iroh and mini Iroh could use some backup here while the others keep the rest of the world from going haywire," Toph added.
An appreciative smile came to Zuko's face. "Thanks. That's going to help a lot."
"Don't expect me to stay forever or anything. This palace is a little too proper for me, but I'd be fine staying for a while."
"I'll make sure your room is as improper as possible."
"Now, you're talking!"
Zuko chuckled and the friends all spoke for a while longer. When they were getting ready to leave, Sokka went over to Zuko.
"We're about to go," he stated.
"I hope you all enjoy that," Zuko said, smiling. "I'll keep some guest chambers ready for when you come to visit." A mischievous twinkle shone in his eyes. "That's a royal decree. I'll send that tracker lady after you otherwise."
Sokka laughed. "Hmm, getting paralyzed again. I think I'll just make sure to visit."
A slight pang of sadness hit the new fire lord. Sokka saw this and felt the same. Suddenly, he brightened.
"Dad brought Hawky Number Three with him. He's yours now. We'll be able to use him to bring scrolls to each other."
Zuko's eyes lit up excitedly. "Good idea."
Sokka held up a finger. "Now, don't think you can get away with being too busy with all your fire lord work to write. I expect a lot of updates."
"And you won't get too busy either?"
"Not a chance."
The firebender held out his hand. "Then deal."
Sokka clasped his hand in response. "Not our first deal."
"Won't be our last either."
Enjoying this implied promise, the friends hugged. They were not sure when they would see one another again, but they knew that it did not matter where they were. Their friendship would remain strong and if one of them needed help, the other would provide that. Theirs was a bond that transcended the brutality of war. It was unbreakable.
