Chapter Text
From the Royal Palace
Royal Caldera, Fire Nation
Sokka of the Southern Water Tribe,
It is with great joy that I inform you of the birth of my daughter, Izumi, and cordially invite you to a celebration of this occasion, which will take place on the 12th day of the 8th month of the 4th Year of Heika in the gardens of the Royal Palace in Caldera.
Your presence would be an honor for me and my family.
The celebration will be an intimate affair, attended by close friends and allies. The program will include speeches, tea, dinner, and the first official presentation of Princess Izumi to the world.
Please let me know if you will be able to attend.
Sincerely,
Zuko
Gran-Gran,
I will be away for a while.
I will be back in a month or so.
Sokka
PS. Oh, and Suki is coming with me.
Zuko,
No offense, but why the formal tone?
You know very well that I will be there anyway.
Get the cooks ready.
Sokka
P.S. Seriously, why the formal tone? Admit it, you hired someone to write this invitation for you.
Sokka,
With all due respect, don't nitpick.
It's called etiquette. Something you're unfamiliar with.
Sincerely,
Zuko
P.S. I wrote this. How many official letters do you think I've had to write over the last few years? I can be formal and polite when I want to be.
Dear Jin,
I didn't get a chance to tell you before I left, but I'm expecting a new shipment of tea. I'm very sorry to ask this of you, but would you be able to unpack it and store it in the warehouse? It's one of the best tea blends that has come from Omashu.
Everything has already been paid for.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Mushi
Dear Zuko,
I know I've told you this many times before, but thank you again for the invitation. The party was truly extraordinary, and I'm glad Izumi is doing well. I know I keep saying this, but she really is amazing. Zuko, you will be a wonderful father to her. I believe Izumi couldn't have better parents than you and Mai.
You probably didn't expect a letter from me so soon, but there is something I forgot to tell you during our meeting. I had the opportunity—very briefly—to talk to Azula, and I must admit I was relieved. After what happened after that Agni Kai, I was afraid that Azula would never recover. However, two weeks ago, I met a confident woman who feels part of the Fire Nation. I am glad that her mental state is improving and that Azula is no longer a threat.
I must admit, part of me will probably still be a little cautious when it comes to Azula. I know you've said many times that Azula was also a victim of your father and that she needs help and support, not to be treated like a criminal, but please don't forget how dangerous she can be.
Don't get me wrong, Zuko. I want to give her a chance. The Azula I met two weeks ago is not the Azula who looked at me with madness in her eyes four years ago. I'm really glad that her condition is much better and that, according to what she told me, she hasn't heard the voices for many months. However, I can't forget everything she did and the fact that she listened to your father for so long.
Again, don't get me wrong, Zuko. I trust your judgment. I'm just asking you to be careful.
I wish you all the best,
Katara
Dear Katara,
Things are better with Azula. We are trying to repair our relationship, and I think it's working.
Azula has reasons to hate me. We all abandoned her—me, Mai, Ty Lee, our mother—with a monster named Ozai. We failed her, all of us—but in our defense, none of us expected what would happen to Azula.
As you know, Azula lives in the palace now. She is a princess of the Fire Nation and deserves to be treated as such. Her condition has improved greatly. She hasn't had an episode in a long time. I believe that things will only get better in the future.
It may sound strange coming from me, but I trust her.
I trust that Azula wants to be better. That she wants to change. That she wants to work for the good of the Fire Nation. And that she wants to rebuild our family with me.
You didn't see her, Katara, when she looked at Izumi. Azula adores and loves her, even if she denies it out loud. You didn't see her when she talked to Kiyi. Azula has accepted her as our younger sister and sometimes gives her advice on firebending.
As for our mother... I won't hide the fact that their relationship isn't the best. For many years, Azula was convinced that our mother didn't love her, and our mother was afraid of her. But I think they are both trying to repair what has been damaged. Is that enough? I don't know.
Every day, I pray to Agni for both Azula and my mother. I believe that one day we will be able to become a family again.
Zuko
From the Takeda family residence
Enkai Province, Fire Nation
To the attention of Fire Lord Zuko
My Lord,
Allow me to once again offer my sincere congratulations on the birth of Princess Izumi. The news of her arrival has touched our hearts—it is truly a joyous time for the entire Fire Nation. We believe she will grow in wisdom, strength, and gentleness, worthy of her name and heritage.
There have been many changes in our household as well—my son Ryoji recently turned three, and with each passing day he resembles his grandfather more and more, much to the pride of our entire family. Recently, as we discussed the future, my wife remarked with amusement that it would be interesting if our children got to know each other better when they grow up. Of course, this is just a parental fantasy – but what a pleasant one.
As always, we remain at yours disposal, serving with loyalty and respect.
Sincerely,
Jujinta Takeda
Head of the Takeda Family
Ty Lee,
Did you see that letter? Shall we laugh about it together?
More seriously, my dear cousin Jujinta has decided that uniting our families is the perfect way to strengthen our country.
Yes, before you ask, I know that Jujinta is not my cousin, but a very distant relative who boasts a connection to Fire Lord Taiso I, my great-great-great-grandfather. Yes, I know it's such a distant connection that this kind of union wouldn't be strange. Yes, I know my family likes to keep power close to home, and yes, I know we desperately need the Takeda family, even though five years ago they happily burned the Earth Kingdom.
But honestly? Izumi is only a few months old. A few months, Ty Lee. I'm not going to betroth my daughter when she's only a few months old.
My actions make sense, right?
Zuko
Zuko,
Thanks for writing to me! I didn't expect to receive a letter from you so soon!
To be honest, I'm not surprised by your cousin. You are the Fire Lord. You said that the gender of the child doesn't matter to you when it comes to inheriting the throne. It's obvious that people will want to try to betroth Izumi to their children. That's politics.
Of course, that doesn't mean Izumi has to marry for political reasons! Besides, maybe she'll fall in love with her future husband? Just look at you and Mai! Your marriage was political, but your love is real!
Ty Lee
From the Royal Palace
Royal Caldera, Fire Nation
To the attention of: Jujinta Takeda
Head of the Takeda Family
Takeda-dono,
We gratefully accept your warm words of welcome to our daughter Izumi. Your kindness and loyalty to the Crown, as always, remain a source of comfort and support to us.
We are also delighted that young Ryoji is thriving and already bringing pride to his family. Children are our hope—and regardless of the times we live in, they are the ones who will shape the future of the Fire Nation.
We smiled at your comment about our children possibly meeting in the future. While this is undoubtedly a nice thought, we would like to point out that our daughter's future belongs first and foremost to her. We believe that time will tell which path she chooses – and our job is to provide her with the space to grow up in freedom, responsibility, and awareness of her own choices.
In such personal matters, we trust that the natural course of life will bring the best answers – based on mutual respect, understanding, and maturity.
With respect and best wishes to your family,
Fire Lord Zuko,
Fire Lady Mai
Ty Lee,
Don't you want to come to Caldera?
Zuko has already burned seven letters in one day.
I won't be writing letters for him forever.
Mai
Mai,
I'd love to come see you! Thanks so much for the invitation! Training on Kyoshi Island takes up a lot of my time, so I don't know exactly when, but thanks again for the invitation!
I'll be there as soon as I can!
Tell Zuko that burning letters may not be very good for his complexion! And it probably sets a bad example for little Izumi!
Ty Lee
From the Takahashi family residence
Kyokuma Province, Fire Nation
To the attention of: Takeda Jujinta, Head of the Takeda Family
Jujinta,
My old friend. How are you? I hope all is well with you. Unfortunately, my mother's health has recently declined, so we were unable to come to Caldera; it's a shame, because we heard that the party celebrating the birth of Crown Princess Izumi was beautiful.
I must admit, I've heard many other rumors as well. Tell me, is it true that old Mei Mei really got married? I find it hard to believe. It seems like just yesterday we were running away from her as she chased us around the room with a broom. Seriously, tell me, is it true?
Speaking of marriages. Is Fire Lord Zuko seriously considering his daughter's engagement? Although I've heard that it's just talk for now and he mostly refuses the suggestions – what about your Ryoji? He's not much older than Princess Izumi, right? Tell me, because I don't know if it's true or not, but I heard that the Fire Lord wasn't interested in the children meeting each other. Is that really true? Because it sounds like nothing but gossip to me. Jujinta, you are the head of the Old Takeda Family, the Governor of Enkai Province, a descendant of Fire Lord Taiso! It's strange that Fire Lord Zuko isn't begging you to come to the capital for the opportunity to meet Princess Izumi.
Right, and how is your sister, Nikki? How old is she now, ten? Ten, right? You still haven't found a match for her, have you? Listen, would you like to come visit me sometime? I know a lot has happened since the war and that you're still a little mad at me, but hey, it's been five years.
Listen, Jujinta, I'll be honest with you. What has been established for generations does not always have to remain unchanged. Maybe it's time to look to the future with courage and wisdom, and if necessary, choose your own path, even if it goes against the grain.
I look forward to hearing from you and hope we can meet soon to talk about everything over a true fire.
Your friend,
Rin Takahashi
From the Takeda family residence
Enkai Province, Fire Nation
To the attention of Fire Lord Zuko
Dear cousin Zuko,
I'm not sure if I should bother you with this, but please take a look at the letter I recently received. I hope it's just my paranoia, but pay attention to Takahashi-dono's last words. They are clearly different from the rest of the letter. It's as if the tone of the letter changed—too suddenly, too quickly.
I am particularly concerned about the last part. What do you think true fire is?
Jujinta
Neira,
Check this letter. I don't like it.
Rin Takahashi wrote to Jujinta.
When did Rin Takahashi get out of prison? I was convinced he was supposed to be in Boiling Rock for another ten years. He is a murderer and a war criminal. I don't recall giving my consent for his release.
Zuko
From the Royal Palace
Royal Caldera, Fire Nation
To the attention of: Takeda Jujinta
Head of the Takeda Family
Dear cousin Jujinta,
Thank you very much for the information. I hope this is just an exaggeration, but you are right: it is better to be cautious. Please also be careful with Rin Takahashi. You know very well that this man has a lot of blood on his hands, which he shed under my father's orders.
Thank you for your immense support.
Zuko
My Lord,
Rin Takahashi has been conditionally released from prison before the end of his sentence due to his exemplary behavior during his stay. The decision to release him early was made by the relevant penitentiary authorities after a positive assessment of Rin Takahashi's attitude and cooperation.
Since leaving Boiling Rock, Rin Takahashi has spent most of his time at his family estate in Kyokuma Province. No incidents or situations indicating a breach of public order have been reported.
Monitoring of Rin Takahashi's further activities is ongoing.
Neira
P.S. My Lord, allow me to be unofficial. We cannot ignore the fact that Rin Takahashi used the phrase “true fire.” I suggest increasing the guard outside your father's cell.
Captain Takashi,
Increase the number of guards at the Capital Prison. In particular, near the cell of former Fire Lord Ozai.
Fire Lord Zuko
Zuko,
How are you? How's little Izumi? Still screaming as much at night as before? I knew the Fire Nation Royal Family was crazy and loud, but this little monster? She definitely got her lungs from you.
Okay, just kidding. Please don't burn this letter.
Seriously, don't burn it.
Izumi is adorable. Super adorable. But you know, you guys have gotten me into trouble. Suki is starting to talk about kids. And I'm not ready for that. I'm not even engaged!
Should I get engaged?
Zuko, seriously, should I get engaged? I don't know what to do. Please advise me. Everyone around here is getting married. And yes, yes, I know that you and Mai got engaged quickly for the sake of the Fire Nation and to avoid a succession crisis, blah blah blah, but seriously. Me and Suki. What do you think?
Sokka
P.S. This may be one of my last letters for a while. Winter is coming, and from what Gran-Gran says, it could be a really nasty one. At worst, we'll be completely cut off from the world. Maybe you want to send us some firebenders to help us melt the glaciers so we can travel in winter?
Sokka,
Don't be silly.
Suki loves you. You love her.
Get engaged at the right time. Don't do it because of time pressure. Or your surroundings. Nothing bad will come of it.
Mai and I got married because we had been engaged since I was eleven. We had known about it for a long time. Our marriage, although political, works well because we are able to trust and support each other. And, in case you don't remember, we had been a couple for a long time.
If you feel that the time is right, get engaged. You have my support and blessing. But if not, don't do it.
Zuko
P.S. 1. You don't have to bother replying to this letter for the next few months. Think about it calmly. You have time.
PS.2. Really, Sokka? You want me to send Firebenders to the South Pole? Do you want this to be seen as a declaration of war? Your people still don't trust Firebenders, and honestly, they have their reasons.
From the Takeda family residence
Enkai Province, Fire Nation
To the attention of Fire Lord Zuko
Cousin,
Allow me to express my concern about recent events in the north. Takahashi-dono has stopped responding to my letters, even though I have sent him many. I sent people to his residence, but they say it’s empty.
Be careful.
Jujinta
Neira,
Are you sure Rin Takahashi is at his residence?
Zuko
My Lord,
My girls are monitoring the area. We are currently investigating the matter.
Neira
Confidential – For internal use only
Report No. 037/11/004/DY
Subject: Security breach at Capital Prison,
Date: 14th day of the 11th month of the 4th year of Heika
Reporter: Captain Takashi, Central Guard
- Introduction:
On the 14th day of the 11th month of the 4th year of Heika, at 02:13 a.m. standard time, a serious security breach occurred at Capital Prison (classification: maximum security). Unknown perpetrators broke into the complex and freed a prisoner – Ozai, the former Fire Lord.
- Course of events:
According to current findings:
At 02:03, three main alarm systems (north section, east section, and main chamber) were deactivated.
By 02:08, traces of a breach of external security and destruction of the main gate using an unknown form of concentrated energy (probably a non-metallic explosive weapon) were identified.
At 02:13, the body of the night shift commander, Lieutenant Hajime, was found at the checkpoint. A total of twelve guards were killed and seven others were seriously injured.
Ozai's cell was found empty, with signs of a struggle (broken floor, burned walls).
The lack of evidence of escape by sea or air may indicate a pre-prepared, hidden escape route or the use of jamming technology/camouflage methods.
- Status of former prisoner:
Status: Missing.
Threat Level: Extreme.
Probable Motivation: Destabilization of the current political order, revenge, possible contact with anti-monarchist or loyalist groups.
- Actions Taken:
- All ports and border crossings have been placed under the highest level of control.
- An order has been issued for the immediate capture of Fire Lord Ozai – dead or alive.
- Recommendations:
- Declaration of a state of emergency in selected provinces.
- Increased protection for members of the royal family.
- Classification of the incident as secret until the first phase of the investigation is complete, to avoid panic or action on the part of sympathizers of the former regime.
Signed:
Captain Takashi
Central Guard
Date: 14th day of the 11th month of the 4th year of Heika
Azula,
Ozai is free.
Zuko
Neira,
My Father is gone.
Why didn't your girls tell me?
Zuko
To the attention of:
His Majesty, Fire Lord Zuko
Your Majesty,
With the utmost respect, I would like to share a few observations that, in light of recent events, may prove important to the security of the Crown.
Following the release of former Fire Lord Ozai, many of us are concerned about possible internal leaks within the intelligence structures. Although there is no direct evidence of treason within the ranks, I would like to suggest particular caution regarding Master of Whispers Neira, who currently holds a position within the intelligence structures.
There is no doubt that Master of Whispers Neira is a highly competent, loyal, and influential woman. That is why it is worth remembering that in the past she maintained contacts with many members of the former court, including, according to unconfirmed information, a close relationship with Ozai himself. These reports were once dismissed as speculation, but in the current context they seem worthy of re-examination.
I realize that casting a shadow on a trusted advisor is a serious matter. I am not making any accusations, but merely appealing for vigilance. If someone from our ranks did indeed help the former ruler escape, I would look among those who are skilled at hiding not with a sword, but with words and information.
With loyalty,
General Takechi
Mother,
Everything is fine.
We are safe. All of us. Me. Mai. Izumi. The palace is safe. There was an attack, but none of us were hurt. Fortunately, Mai and Izumi were far away. They didn't even see the assassins.
I am obliged to inform you that Ozai has been freed. An investigation is underway, and all forces have been mobilized to find him. I will not rest until he is recaptured.
Please do not worry.
Everything is fine.
To be on the safe side, until we are certain that Ozai has been captured, I suggest that you, Ikem, and Kiyi move. Not so much hide as move to a safer place. Ozai may try to attack you.
Be careful.
Always yours,
Zuko
From the Takeda family residence
Enkai Province, Fire Nation
To the attention of Fire Lord Zuko
Cousin,
My people have noticed unrest in the north. I may be wrong, but I have a feeling that someone is gathering an army. Considering Ozai's escape, the massacre at Capital Prison, and the assassination attempt at the palace, I dare say we have reason to be concerned.
The Enkai Province and the Takeda family have always supported you. Therefore, I am formally requesting your support at this time (attached to this letter). If there is a threat, we will be the first to be attacked.
Always loyal,
Jujinta
To: Commander Miyo Ren, Special Operations Command
Subject: Reconnaissance mission in Enkai Province
Based on information received from Lord Jujinta and reports of unrest in the northern region, I order the immediate dispatch of a reconnaissance unit to Enkai Province for the following purposes:
- To identify possible movements of illegal or rebel forces.
- To assess the security situation in the area.
- To establish contact with the Takeda family and cooperate with them.
- To report any irregularities directly to the Command in Caldera City.
- To confirm the whereabouts of Rin Takahashi and verify his loyalty to the Crown..
This mission is strictly reconnaissance. Engagement with hostile forces is prohibited unless explicitly authorized. Should enemy mobilization be confirmed, report immediately and await further orders.
The Enkai Province and the Takeda family are to be treated with caution and respect. Maintain discipline at all times.
Fire Lord Zuko
Proclamation of Fire
To all loyal citizens of the Fire Nation,
To the chiefs, commanders, soldiers, and families who have not forgotten the glory of the Empire:
I, Ozai of the Royal House, declare that I am no longer a prisoner. For years, I have been held captive, humiliated, and silenced by those who called their cowardice a “new era of peace”.
But fire never dies—it only smolders, only to flare up even more powerfully.
The Fire Nation was once great. Our ships sailed all the oceans, and our will shaped the world. Today, under the rule of the usurper Zuko, who befriends the enemies of our ancestors, our nation is weakening. His “peace” is submission. His “justice” is chaos, compromise, and shame.
But the time of betrayal is coming to an end.
I call upon those who remember—those who have not bowed their heads, who believe that the Fire Nation was not created for penance, but for leadership. I call upon the true sons and daughters of fire to rise up and restore our power.
I call upon you to cast the liar from the palace, to unite under the true banner of the Phoenix.
A true ruler does not ask.
He commands.
And he returns.
Ozai, Rightful Fire Lord of the Fire Nation