The battlefield was littered with the remnants of the syndicate's rebellion. Smoke still curled into the night sky, illuminated by the soft glow of embers. Soldiers moved swiftly, rounding up the defeated rebels and extinguishing any lingering flames. The chaos of the night had finally subsided, leaving behind a sobering silence.
Zhao stood in the middle of it all, his breathing steady despite the intensity of the fight. His uniform was singed and dusted with ash, but his posture was firm, his expression calm. He had fought hard, and the weight of his efforts hung heavy in the air.
Zuko approached him, his golden eyes reflecting a mixture of pride and relief. He gestured for the soldiers to continue their work before turning his full attention to Zhao.
"Well done, Zhao," Zuko said, his voice carrying the authority of a seasoned leader but laced with genuine warmth. "It seems your mindset about firebending has changed."
Zhao glanced at the Fire Lord, his expression momentarily softening. "Thank you, Lord Zuko," he replied, his tone steady but humble. "It wasn't just about strength tonight—it was about control, balance, and understanding. I finally see what you meant."
Zuko nodded, a small smile gracing his lips. "It shows. I watched you tonight—you fought not just with skill, but with purpose. You've grown, Zhao. Not just as a firebender, but as a person."
Zhao felt a swell of pride at the Fire Lord's words, but he kept his composure. "I couldn't have done it without your guidance," he admitted.
As the soldiers continued their work, Zuko gestured for Zhao to walk with him. They moved through the remnants of the battlefield, the cool night air brushing against their faces.
"With the syndicate dismantled, the Fire Nation can finally begin to heal," Zuko said, his tone contemplative. "But there will always be those who seek to disrupt the balance, Zhao. That's why it's so important for people like you to stand strong."
Zhao met his gaze, determination burning in his eyes. "I'm ready to face whatever comes next, Lord Zuko. I've made my choice—I'll protect the Fire Nation with everything I have."
Zuko's smile widened ever so slightly. "Good. Then let this victory mark a new chapter, not just for the Fire Nation, but for you as well."
As the first light of dawn began to break over the horizon, casting a golden glow over the palace grounds, the soldiers had finished their task. The captured rebels were escorted away, the fires extinguished, and the battlefield cleared.
Zhao stood at the palace steps, watching as the Fire Nation began to return to normalcy. He felt a renewed sense of purpose coursing through him—a determination to grow stronger, to continue his training, and to honor the trust Zuko and Izumi had placed in him.
The syndicate had been taken down, but Zhao knew this was only the beginning. The world was vast and unpredictable, and challenges would always arise. But for the first time, he felt truly ready to face them, armed not just with his bending, but with the wisdom he had gained along the way.
As Zuko placed a hand on his shoulder, a sense of calm settled over Zhao. The Fire Lord spoke with quiet confidence, "You've proven yourself today, Zhao. Now, let's prepare for what lies ahead."
The aftermath of the battle had left the palace quieter than usual, but the tension still lingered in the air. Zhao walked beside Zuko through the grand corridors, his expression firm, his steps purposeful. The dim light of the setting sun filtered through the ornate windows, casting long shadows across the walls.
"We need to hold a trial, Lord Zuko," Zhao began, breaking the silence. His voice carried the weight of conviction.
Zuko raised an eyebrow, glancing at the young firebender. "A trial? For the syndicate members we've captured?"
"Not just any trial," Zhao clarified. "A public one, in front of the people. Let them see the consequences of actions that threaten the peace and stability of the Fire Nation."
Zuko's brow furrowed as he considered Zhao's words. "It's a bold suggestion," he admitted. "Some might say it risks turning us back into what we were before Avatar Aang's time—harsh, unforgiving."
Zhao nodded, acknowledging the Fire Lord's concern. "It may sound insane, and I know it's a fine line to tread," he said, his tone resolute. "But it's a necessary step. The Fire Nation has come too far to let terrorism and chaos take root again. If we show the people that those who disrupt peace will face severe consequences, it will send a message."
Zuko stopped walking, turning fully to face Zhao. "And what message do you hope to send, Zhao?"
"That peace is sacred, and unity is non-negotiable," Zhao replied without hesitation. "But it has to come from you, Lord Zuko. The people need to hear it from their leader."
Zuko folded his arms, his golden eyes distant as he weighed the proposal. He had always sought to lead the Fire Nation with fairness and wisdom, but the betrayal of trusted generals like Renshu and the rise of the syndicate had shaken the nation to its core.
"You speak with conviction, Zhao," Zuko finally said, his voice measured. "But a public trial could have unintended consequences. It might inspire fear—or worse, embolden others who seek to defy us."
"It's a risk," Zhao admitted. "But it's one worth taking. The people deserve to see justice, not just hear about it behind closed doors. And it's not about instilling fear—it's about reinforcing hope. Hope that the Fire Nation stands strong against those who threaten it."
The Fire Lord sighed, rubbing his beard thoughtfully. "I'll consider it. This isn't a decision to be made lightly, Zhao."
Zhao nodded, understanding the weight of the matter. "That's all I ask, Lord Zuko. I just want what's best for the nation."
As they continued their walk, Zuko glanced at Zhao with a mixture of respect and curiosity. The young man's fire was undeniable—not just in his bending but in his spirit. He had grown into someone who cared deeply for the Fire Nation, someone willing to challenge even the Fire Lord to ensure its future.
"Very well," Zuko said at last. "If we do this, it will be a trial that upholds the values we've fought so hard to protect. Justice must never become tyranny, Zhao. Remember that."
Zhao's expression softened, and he bowed slightly. "I understand, Lord Zuko. And I'll stand by whatever decision you make."
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the two continued their conversation, their shared goal clear: to guide the Fire Nation into an era of unwavering peace and unity.
...
The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the palace garden. Zhao stood near a koi pond, his reflection rippling on the surface of the water as he stared into its depths. His mind was restless, filled with questions about his future.
The sound of footsteps drew his attention. He turned to see Izumi approaching, her posture calm yet commanding as always. "Couldn't sleep?" she asked, folding her arms.
Zhao shook his head, offering a faint smile. "There's too much on my mind. I'm trying to figure out what comes next."
Izumi raised an eyebrow as she stepped closer. "I'd imagine you'd want to stay in the Fire Nation Army. You've proven yourself to be an exceptional soldier."
Zhao hesitated, his gaze shifting back to the pond. "That's the thing… I don't think staying in the army is what I want anymore."
Izumi tilted her head, intrigued. "Really? Why not? You've risen quickly, gained respect, and have a direct line to the Fire Lord himself. Most soldiers would envy your position."
Zhao let out a soft chuckle. "It's not about rank or recognition. I want to do more than fight battles or follow orders. I want to help shape the world, make a real difference—not just in the Fire Nation, but beyond it."
Izumi studied him carefully, her sharp eyes searching his expression. "That's a lofty ambition," she admitted. "What exactly do you mean by 'shaping the world'?"
Zhao exhaled deeply, gathering his thoughts. "The world is fragile right now. The syndicate was proof of that. People are disillusioned, looking for something to believe in, and sometimes they're drawn to the wrong things. I want to be someone who inspires change—not through fear or force, but through understanding and action."
Izumi crossed her arms, nodding slowly. "And how do you plan to do that? It's not like you can just walk into other nations and tell them how to live."
Zhao smiled at her bluntness. "I know. I'm not naive. But I've seen the Fire Nation's journey—from the days of the Hundred Year War to now. I've seen how leadership, like your father's, can turn things around. I want to learn from that and find my own way to contribute."
Izumi looked thoughtful, then smirked slightly. "So, you're saying you want to be a politician?"
Zhao laughed, shaking his head. "Not exactly. But I want to be someone who has a voice, who can bring people together. Maybe that means working with leaders, maybe it means something else. I don't have all the answers yet."
Izumi's expression softened, and she gave him a rare smile. "You're more ambitious than I thought. Most people are content with stability, but you're looking for something greater. I respect that."
"Thanks," Zhao said, his tone sincere. "I just hope I can live up to it."
"You will," Izumi replied confidently. "But you'll need guidance. My father might have some thoughts on where you can start. And if you're serious about reaching beyond the Fire Nation, you'll need connections outside of it."
Zhao nodded, a sense of clarity settling over him. "Then that's my next step. Learning more, expanding my perspective. If I'm going to make a difference, I need to understand the world better."
Izumi extended her hand. "You've got the potential, Zhao. Don't waste it."
Zhao shook her hand firmly. "I won't."
As the two stood under the moonlight, Zhao felt a renewed sense of purpose. The path ahead wasn't clear, but it was his to carve, and he was determined to walk it with conviction.
...
Zhao sat cross-legged in the palace archives, the dim light of a lantern illuminating the scrolls spread out before him. His thoughts wandered as he studied maps of the world, his mind abuzz with possibilities.
"You know," he murmured to himself, "I could do what Jiraiya from Naruto did. Travel the world, getting stronger, while still helping the nation."
The thought lingered, sparking excitement in his chest. Traveling would allow him to see the world beyond the Fire Nation, to encounter different benders, and to learn techniques Zuko couldn't teach him.
He glanced at his hands, one sparking with a faint glow of lightning, the other clenched into a fist. "Zuko can help me refine my firebending, but for earthbending… I'll need to look elsewhere."
The next day, Zhao brought his thoughts to Izumi as they walked through the palace gardens. "You're thinking of leaving," she guessed, her tone calm but curious.
"Not permanently," Zhao clarified. "I'm considering traveling the world. My firebending would grow leaps and bounds if I stayed here, but I can't ignore my earthbending. If I want to be the best version of myself, I need to train both equally."
Izumi nodded thoughtfully. "It's not a bad idea. The Fire Nation isn't the only place with skilled teachers. But it's also risky. The syndicate might be dealt with, but remnants could still be out there. And then there's…"
"The masked man," Zhao finished, his expression darkening.
"Exactly," Izumi confirmed. "Traveling would make you a target. Are you prepared for that?"
Later that evening, Zhao approached Zuko in his study. The Fire Lord was seated by the fire, reviewing reports. He looked up as Zhao entered.
"Zhao," Zuko greeted with a nod. "What's on your mind?"
Zhao hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I've been thinking, Lord Zuko. My time here has been incredible, and I've grown a lot. But if I want to master earthbending and truly understand the world, I need to see it for myself. I'm considering traveling."
Zuko leaned back, studying Zhao intently. "It's a bold decision," he said after a moment. "But not a foolish one. The world has much to teach, and experiencing it firsthand can change your perspective."
Zhao felt a surge of relief. "You think it's the right move?"
"I think it depends on your purpose," Zuko replied. "If you're seeking strength for its own sake, you might lose yourself along the way. But if you're seeking strength to better yourself and help others, then yes, it's the right move."
Zuko stood and placed a hand on Zhao's shoulder. "The Fire Nation will always be your home, Zhao. If you choose to leave, you'll go with my blessing. But remember this: strength isn't just about bending. It's about understanding who you are and what you stand for."
Zhao nodded, determination shining in his eyes. "I understand. Thank you, Lord Zuko."
As he left the study, Zhao's resolve solidified. He would spend a little more time training under Zuko's guidance, mastering the fundamentals of lightning bending. Then, when the time was right, he would set out on his journey, ready to face the world and all its challenges.
His path was uncertain, but his purpose was clear: to grow, to learn, and to become a force for balance in a world that desperately needed it.
....
The stage was set.
The Fire Nation's great courtyard had been transformed into a grand tribunal for the trial. It was a massive open space, flanked by towering stone walls adorned with banners bearing the Fire Nation insignia. The atmosphere was tense, filled with the murmurs of an uneasy crowd. Citizens of all ranks packed the courtyard, their faces a mixture of curiosity, anger, and apprehension.
At the far end, an elevated dais had been constructed, its design commanding authority. Zuko sat at the center, his golden eyes sharp and unyielding, reflecting both wisdom and the burden of leadership. To his right was Izumi, her posture poised, a calm yet watchful presence. On either side of them sat a panel of judges—seasoned elders, generals, and scholars—each tasked with ensuring that justice would be served.
Before the dais stood Zhao, a lone figure in the vast sea of Fire Nation citizens. His stance was steady, though the weight of the moment pressed heavily on his shoulders. Behind him loomed a massive metal fence, reinforced with fireproof seals. Beyond it, the defeated members of the syndicate waited in chains, their fates tied to the outcome of this trial.
The citizens whispered among themselves, their words drifting through the air like embers:
"That's Zhao, isn't it? The one with the blue flames."
"He fought off the syndicate! Some say he redirected lightning like the Fire Lord himself."
"He's still an outsider. What if he turns on us one day?"
"No way. He stood with Zuko and Izumi. He's a hero."
Zhao could hear bits of their conversations but kept his focus forward, his eyes fixed on Zuko. He didn't mind their speculation—it was natural. What mattered was ensuring that the trial sent a clear message: the Fire Nation would not tolerate terrorism.
Zuko rose from his seat, commanding immediate silence. His voice was steady and authoritative, carrying across the courtyard. "Citizens of the Fire Nation, we are gathered here today to address the crimes committed by the syndicate. Their betrayal of our nation, their attacks on our people, and their attempt to destabilize the peace we have worked so hard to maintain will not go unpunished."
The crowd erupted into cheers of agreement, though a few dissenting voices lingered in the background.
Zuko continued, "But this trial is not just about punishment. It is about justice. Justice that reflects our values as a nation, our commitment to peace, and our respect for the rule of law."
He gestured toward Zhao. "This man before you, Zhao, stood against the syndicate when it mattered most. His actions saved lives and preserved the stability of our nation. And today, he will speak to the truth of what transpired."
Zhao stepped forward, his hands clasped behind his back. The weight of thousands of eyes bore down on him, but he remained calm.
"I'm not here to talk about myself," he began, his voice firm but composed. "I'm here to make sure the Fire Nation moves forward. What the syndicate did was not just an attack on our nation—it was an attack on our ideals, our unity, and our progress."
He turned slightly, glancing back at the fence where the syndicate members were held. "They sought to bring back an era of fear and domination, an era that Fire Lord Zuko, Avatar Aang and lots of people worked tirelessly to end. We cannot allow their actions to go unanswered."
Zhao's gaze returned to the crowd. "But we also cannot become what they accuse us of being. This trial is a chance to show the world that the Fire Nation has changed, that we value justice over vengeance, and that we stand united against those who seek to divide us."
Zuko watched Zhao closely as he spoke, a flicker of pride crossing his face. This young man, who had come to the palace as an anomaly, had grown into someone who understood the weight of responsibility and the importance of balance.
When Zhao finished, Zuko rose once more. "Let the trial proceed."
As the judges began deliberating the syndicate's fate, Zhao stepped back, his role in the trial complete. Though the outcome was still uncertain, he felt a sense of clarity. Whatever came next, he was ready to face it.
The trial reached its crescendo as the judges delivered harsh sentences to every rebel, regardless of their rank or involvement. Even the low-ranking soldiers, who claimed they were coerced into joining the syndicate, faced severe punishments. The crowd, initially in agreement with the trial's purpose, grew restless.
Murmurs of unease spread like wildfire through the sea of citizens. Some whispered about the fairness of punishing the low-ranking soldiers, questioning whether they deserved such harsh treatment. Others argued that the sentences were justified, a necessary step to ensure the Fire Nation's safety.
When it came time for General Renshu and Lieutenant Kang to hear their fate, the tension in the air was palpable.
"You call this justice?!" Renshu's voice boomed across the courtyard as he was dragged forward in chains. "We acted for the Fire Nation's future! We fought for its strength, its legacy!"
Kang, standing beside him, joined in. "We were patriots, not criminals! Do you truly believe that throwing us away like this will solve the nation's problems? The Fire Nation has grown weak under Zuko's leadership!"
The crowd's whispers turned to shouts. Some voiced agreement with the rebels, emboldened by their defiance. Others booed, condemning the words as treasonous.
Zuko and Izumi exchanged glances, their expressions tense as the unrest threatened to spiral out of control.
Zhao, who had remained silent until now, stepped forward. His face was unreadable, but his presence alone demanded attention. With a swift motion, he raised his hands and unleashed a massive fire stream into the sky. The roaring flames illuminated the blue sky, silencing the crowd instantly.
He turned to face them, his golden-blue eyes blazing with fury. His voice cut through the stillness like a blade.
"How dare you sympathize with these people?! Why?! Because they're Fire Nation citizens? Because they were once your friends?"
The crowd shifted uncomfortably, their earlier courage faltering under Zhao's glare.
"These people," Zhao continued, gesturing toward Renshu and Kang, "killed someone's husband, someone's father, someone's friend! And for what?! A promise of power! A delusion of grandeur that led them to betray everything the Fire Nation stands for!"
He pointed to the crowd, his voice rising with passion. "In fact, you should be cheering for the sentences the judges gave out! You should be glad that these traitors will never see the light of day again! They would have torn this nation apart, dragged us all back into an era of tyranny and suffering!"
The citizens were silent, their earlier protests quelled by Zhao's fiery conviction. Even Renshu and Kang had nothing to say, their protests drowned out by the sheer force of his words.
Zhao's voice softened slightly, but his tone was no less firm. "This is not about vengeance. This is about ensuring that no one else suffers because of their selfishness. The Fire Nation deserves better, and it is our responsibility to protect it—no matter the cost."
As Zhao stepped back, the crowd began to murmur once more, but this time it was with agreement. The weight of his words had sunk in, and many began to see the necessity of the harsh sentences.
Zuko, who had watched the entire exchange in silence, nodded subtly to Zhao. It was a silent acknowledgment of the young man's courage and understanding of justice.
The trial continued, but the unrest had been quelled. Zhao's stand had not only reaffirmed the nation's resolve but also cemented his place as a protector of the Fire Nation's ideals.
Princess Izumi rose from her seat beside her father. Her elegant posture and sharp gaze commanded respect and silence from the onlookers. She held a list of charges in her hand, each accusation weighed and prepared with meticulous care.
"Renshu. Kang." Her voice rang clear and resolute. She did not add their ranks in front of their names, as they had thrown them away as soon as they betrayed the nation.
"You stand accused of numerous crimes against the Fire Nation and its people. Crimes that will be named here for all to hear, so that there is no doubt of your betrayal."
The crowd hung on her every word, the tension thick enough to cut with a blade.
Izumi's eyes moved to the paper in her hand, but her tone carried the weight of someone who had memorized every word.
"Conspiracy against the Fire Lord. Inciting rebellion. Terrorizing Fire Nation citizens. The deaths of countless innocents. The murder of loyal soldiers. Arson and destruction of government property. Collaboration with foreign powers hostile to our nation."
She paused, letting the gravity of the accusations sink into the crowd. The silence was deafening.
"Your crimes go beyond treason. They are an affront to the peace and stability that countless generations have fought to achieve."
Renshu and Kang stood motionless, their defiance tempered by the weight of their guilt being laid bare.
Izumi straightened, her expression unyielding. "For these crimes, you are sentenced to life imprisonment. You will never again see the light of day. Your days will be spent in the deepest cells of our nation, where you will have no opportunity to poison others with your ideals."
The crowd erupted into a mixture of applause and murmurs. Some cheered, relieved that justice had been served. Others whispered among themselves, still uneasy about the harshness of the sentence.
Izumi's eyes swept over the crowd, her voice cutting through the noise. "Let this be a lesson to all who would threaten the peace of our nation. The Fire Nation will not tolerate terrorism, betrayal, or the endangerment of its people. Those who choose to walk this path will face the full weight of justice."
As Izumi took her seat, she glanced toward her father, who gave her a small nod of approval. The weight of her judgment hung over the courtyard, a stark reminder of the consequences of treachery.
Zhao, standing to the side, felt a surge of pride for the princess's strength and clarity. Her words had echoed his sentiments perfectly. As the guards escorted Renshu and Kang away in chains, Zhao allowed himself a moment of satisfaction.
The trial was over, and justice had been served. But deep down, Zhao knew this was only the beginning of his journey to ensure peace and stability—not just for the Fire Nation, but for the world.
As the judges prepared to adjourn the trial, Fire Lord Zuko stood from his elevated seat. The murmurs of the gathered citizens quieted instantly. His presence, commanding yet humble, was enough to bring silence to the restless crowd.
He looked over the sea of faces, his golden eyes steady. "Before we conclude, I have something to say."
The crowd shifted with anticipation, and Zuko's voice rang clear, strong, and filled with purpose.
"Today, justice has been served. The individuals who chose to betray their nation have been held accountable for their actions. I understand that some of you may feel conflicted about the sentences handed down today. You may remember these people as friends, neighbors, or even family. But let me remind you of this: loyalty to the Fire Nation and its people must come above all else."
He paused, allowing his words to settle in.
"These rebels did not act out of desperation or need. They acted out of greed, out of a desire for power, and out of disdain for the peace we have all worked so hard to build. They preyed upon the fears and hopes of others, twisting them into weapons for their own gain. That is not the Fire Nation we stand for."
Zuko's gaze shifted to Zhao, who stood to the side, still resolute after his fiery address to the crowd earlier. A small, approving smile crossed Zuko's face before he turned back to the citizens.
"Zhao is right. We must not allow ourselves to sympathize with those who seek to destroy what we have built. Their actions led to loss, suffering, and the deaths of innocent people. These crimes cannot and will not be overlooked. If we, as a nation, turn a blind eye to such atrocities, we invite chaos into our lives and betray the legacy of those who came before us."
He paused again, his voice growing softer but no less impactful. "But I want to make one thing clear: justice is not about vengeance. It is about accountability. It is about ensuring that those who threaten peace are stopped, not out of hatred, but out of love for our nation and its people."
Zuko stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. "The Fire Nation is stronger when we are united. We cannot allow the actions of a few to divide us. Instead, let us learn from this moment. Let us remember the cost of hatred, greed, and betrayal, and let us vow never to repeat the mistakes of the past."
He raised his hand, his voice firm. "I call on all of you, my people, to stand together. To rebuild. To ensure that peace prevails—not just for us, but for future generations. And to those who still believe in the lies of the syndicate, let this trial serve as a warning. The Fire Nation will not falter in the face of treachery. We will stand strong."
As Zuko concluded his speech, the crowd erupted into applause. His words had resonated with the people, reigniting a sense of pride and unity.
Zuko turned to Zhao, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "Your passion and strength helped us reach this moment, Zhao. Thank you."
Zhao bowed deeply, his determination renewed. "Thank you, Lord Zuko. I'll do everything I can to ensure this peace lasts."
The trial officially came to a close. The Fire Nation had spoken, and its people, united under the Fire Lord's leadership, took the first steps toward healing and rebuilding.
As Zuko and Izumi prepared to leave the trial grounds, ready to retreat into the palace to discuss the aftermath of the day, Zhao stood at attention. He could sense the lingering doubts among the people, the uncertainty about his true loyalties. Though he had helped defeat the syndicate, some still questioned where he truly stood. Did he align with Zuko's vision, or was his allegiance still up for grabs?
In a moment of impulse—and perhaps the need to solidify his commitment—Zhao raised his voice, loud and unwavering. "LONG LIVE THE FIRE LORD!"
The crowd fell silent for a split second, taken aback by the sudden outburst. But then, something began to shift. Eyes widened, and whispers spread like wildfire. Slowly, people began to join in.
"LONG LIVE THE FIRE LORD!"
One voice, then another. A chorus of chants rippled through the citizens who had been present for the trial. It wasn't just a declaration of loyalty; it was a public proclamation, a reaffirmation of support for the Fire Lord and the principles he stood for.
Izumi raised an eyebrow at Zhao's bold action, a small smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. Zuko, too, seemed taken by surprise. He turned back to face Zhao, an expression of bemusement crossing his features.
Zhao's declaration echoed across the grounds, resonating in the hearts of many who had once been unsure of him. He could feel it—the weight of their gaze, the shift in the air. The Fire Nation citizens were beginning to accept him, perhaps even view him as one of their own.
Zhao's chest swelled with pride. He hadn't just fought for the Fire Nation's safety; he had fought for its future. And now, he was staking his claim in that future.
Zuko's voice cut through the noise, steady and commanding. "You've made your stance clear, Zhao." His smile softened, but the fire in his eyes was unmistakable. "I'll hold you to it."
The chanting continued, growing louder. Zhao stood tall, no longer uncertain of his place. He wasn't just an outsider or a soldier in the Fire Army. He was a part of this nation's future—just as Zuko was.
As the crowd dispersed, Zuko and Izumi made their way back to the palace, but not before Zuko gave Zhao one final, knowing look. The Fire Lord knew this moment would mark a turning point. Zhao's loyalty, his passion, and his commitment had been sealed not just by his actions, but by his voice, echoing out to the very people he swore to protect.
The trial was over. The syndicate had fallen. And now, Zhao's next challenge was to truly integrate himself into the Fire Nation's future—no longer a wildcard, but a trusted ally and a powerful force.
And with that, the future of the Fire Nation seemed a little bit brighter.