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in: The Rise of Lirin chapters (fanon), A to Z (fanon)

Fanon:In the Morrow

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Thunderstorm By The Snowbold Genre Rating Reviews Updates
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Air, Water, Earth, Fire. A new Avatar has been born to the Fire Nation as the cycle of the Avatar continues. And Lirin must face a new challenge as both Avatar and Prince of the Fire Nation.

In the Morrow[]

A settled moan came from the beautiful woman as she laid down on the bed. She smiled as she looked at the man next to her. In some regards, it wasn't that surprising. Though she was two years older than him, she knew him all his life. They played together, learned together and sometimes ate together.

The nature of a relationship became more complex that she was the daughter of a servant at the palace and he was the master. Still, it wasn't unheard of for the master to have a lover among servants. Even if the man was a prince of the Fire Nation. It was especially not surprising that the prince shared his bed with two women tonight.

However, when she was the lover of an Avatar who was also Prince of the Fire Nation, that was certainly special. Mira had known Lirin and been with him well before his status as the Avatar was revealed. For her, he was the love of her life. Strong, handsome, kind and sarcastic. Lirin was simply a foundational part of her life. She knew the odds of becoming his wife were next to nothing, that even as his mistress she would be judged by the noble families, but she didn't care. She didn't care that her mother insisted she get married and leave the palace and not be a servant girl like she was. Ita always told her daughter that with her education, she could get a good job and find a man she could have a real family with.

Despite the sting of her mother's disapproval, she still had a least one other person who still supported her, with reservations. She was like a sister to Mira, and that was the Crown Princess, Ursa. Ursa was a year older and always looked out for her as children. Ursa teased Mira and Lirin, occasionally threatening to arrange a marriage for Mira, but she never followed through, that was because she knew Mira would never love anyone else the way she loved Lirin.

It was there very person who was resting on the doorsill sighing as she looked at the bed and its occupiers, "Seriously, Lirin? The night before you leave for Ba Sing Se?"

Lirin sat up, "It's not like Mira is coming with me, and it could be years."

"Except there is this amazing technology called airplanes that can fly you back home to visit in a matter of hours, kind of puts a dapper in that whole exile act." Ursa looked at the third member of the bed and with a commanding voice, "Leave."

The second woman bowed quickly and scampered off. Ursa turned her attention to her old friend, "Mira, why do you entertain this?"

Mira rarely spoke up or out of turn to anyone, let alone royalty. However, when Lirin was concerned, she was unreserved in her passion, "I seem to recall his highness, your father, marrying two woman who were cousins at the same time and both granddaughters to the last Avatar. So why is it bad that I want to be with my love regardless?"

"Because his conduct is unbecoming of both a prince and an Avatar. Lirin's reputation already precedes him, but we have been fortunate that there has been no wave of bastards from his conquests. That image will impact his ability to mediate as Avatar in the future." Ursa rubbed her temples at the absurdity, "At least try to control him. Anyway, I need to speak with Lirin privately, we have a lot to do tomorrow."

Lirin chimed in, "I was wondering when you were going to talk to me and not about me again."

Ursa rolled her eyes as she gestured for Mira to leave the room. Mira did so reluctantly, and clearly only temporarily as she only took a bedsheet with her. Ursa walked over and nearly sat on the edge of the bed before reconsidering.

"This better not be a habit in Ba Sing Se. It's a big city and a lot of issues and traditions. You bring harlots from the wrong Ring into the Palace, and the scandal could cause shockwaves."

"Do you really think so little of your brother?" Lirin asked in feigned hurt.

Ursa rolled her eyes again. "Go to sleep brother, I'll be waking you up bright and early to train and then speak with father."

"Ah, I was wondering when he would speak with me again. I half-expected him to disown me. Even if I was the Avatar."

Ursa's temper rose, "Can you blame him? The wife of the headmaster at the Whispering Canyon Air Temple!? You tested just how forgiving Air Nomads really are. Sometimes I think we should have sent you to that clan of assassins in the east, try that with them and you wouldn't be able to have any offspring!"

Lirin winced at that, "Hey, at least I made no trouble in the Water Tribe."

"A small mercy," Ursa acquiesced that Lirin caused no scandal while learning waterbending. Ursa believed the difficulty of his opposite element caused him to struggle and divert his attention. Even so, Lirin managed to master this element in two years.

"Nevertheless, father expects you to be on your best behavior in the Earth Kingdom, you are there to learn earthbending, not to learn about Earth Kingdom girls." Ursa turned to leave and saw Mira waiting outside where she promptly reentered as Ursa left. The Crown-Princess growled in frustration, "What did I do to deserve this pain in the butt of a brother?"

Lirin rushed through the day. He had little time to rest between training with an unforgiving Ursa, a somewhat bitter maid Ita complaining about his packing preparations, and now a meeting with his father about his travelling to the Earth Kingdom.

It had been three years since Lirin was publicly stated to be the Avatar. In a way, Lirin's status had returned to the old ways of Avatars being identified publicly later in youth rather than at a young age. Aang and Korra both knew before they were considered adults. What was different was how quickly it spread.

Lirin stepped into the throne room to see Ursa was already waiting while his father sat in his proper place, with shrouds of flame surrounding him. It had been months since they spoke, Lirin's less than cooperative behavior had caused serious trouble for the Royal Family. Fire Lord Zorin would have severely punished his son for his faults if he wasn't the Avatar. However, the option of exiling him to a distant outpost wasn't possible for the Avatar-in-training.

"Prince Lirin," Zorin addressed his son by royal title rather than as Avatar, "We need to discuss the training you will begin soon."

Lirin kneeled forward and gave a brief bow before joining his sister, "I will be leaving tonight. I will fly to Ba Sing Se with a stop in Yu Dao at our forward base there."

Despite the Fifth Nation War being long over, both the Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation retained bases in the Air Nation that was founded from the old United Republic of Nations. The Earth Kingdom built their base in the once-abandoned Taku while the Fire Nation built their base next to the industrial city and former colony of Yu Dao. Since the city was always friendly to the Fire Nation, even today, it was the ideal place for the Fire Nation to retain a military base on the continent after they had pulled all other installations out after the war ended.

Zorin nodded, "Yes, my concern is not in transit, but at your destination. Your proclivities aside, relations with the Earth Kingdom are still tense."

Ursa sighed, "Are they still bitter about the annexation? That was over twenty years ago."

"Nations have long memories. The Earth Kingdom may not value Kyoshi Island itself, but they value its name. Avatar Tala's second residence was there, and it is home to the famous bodyguards. The Earth Kingdom maintains it was an illegal occupation, though they never tried to use force to change it. Prince Lirin, your presence in Ba Sing Se has incredible importance. As Prince, you must show respect to Earth King Luei and assure him we mean him no disrespect. As Avatar, you must show dedication to understanding the people and your willingness to serve all nations."

Zorin continued, "Your past antics will not be tolerated. If I hear one press report about you, I will be far harsher than I have ever been with you, do you understand?"

"Yes, father. Is that all?"

"That is all."

Lirin bowed, stood up and left the throne room. Zorin returned his attention to his daughter, "I really wish he wasn't so much like I was at his age. It seems the universe is punishing me."

"I believe Lirin has heard very well not to take inappropriate actions while away. Just to make sure, I am keeping Mira here so to cut off one of his avenues of distraction. But if he is determined to cause problems, he will anyway." Ursa felt that there was only so much she could do about her brother without dropping the hammer. "To be honest, I am more concerned about these reports from the east of the Si Wong Desert. Have we had any follow-up confirmation?"

Zorin shook his head, "Nothing concrete, only hearsay and some evidence of activity, but nothing to warrant a reaction, so far as we know."

"It's what we don't know that concerns me," Ursa's grasp of military intelligence was admirable and her pessimism served her well, "Are you sure we should keep this from Lirin?"

Fire Lord Zorin waved his hand dismissively, "What good would it do? He either wouldn't listen or treat the Earth King with disrespect. I would rather Lirin treat them honestly than tried to hide knowledge about military movements on the eastern end of the Earth Kingdom."

"Very well, my lord. Is there anything else you require?"

Zorin shook his head, "No, that will be all."

The Crown-Princess bowed before standing up and leaving.

The Fire Lord was relieved to have such a capable and reliable daughter in Ursa. She was truly fit to become Fire Lord. Even at seventeen, she had shown initiative to learn and prepare to rule. After Lirin was announce as the Avatar, she was appointed to the position of Grand General of the Army, the highest officer position in the Fire Nation Army. Ursa led well. Not only did she manage effectively, but she also excelled in streamlining bureaucracy and cutting waste in the budget.

Zorin was grateful the roles of Avatar and heir weren't reverse. He would dread his son becoming the Fire Lord and be cautious about such a gifted leader being Avatar. He still had his worries about a playboy with little motivation becoming a fully realized Avatar, but that was a problem for the whole world, and not just him.

Legacy[]

Lirin rested in the airship leisurely as he waited to land in Yu Dao for a resupply of fuel and materials. Lirin decided to travel by airship rather than plane because he didn't want to rush. While resting, he watched a documentary mover being broadcasted in the Air Nation. It was about Avatar Tala after the Siege of Omashu.

Avatar Tala's legacy outside of the Fire Nation was mixed. After killing the spirit witch, and Rishu killed King Urri, the perspective of Tala as a turncoat remained. She spent years pacifying small rebellions and guerilla insurgents throughout the southern Earth Kingdom who were either Omashu rebels or United Forces exiles. Tala remained an Avatar with low spiritual affinity, but her physical prowess was incredible. Tala made up for the lack of raw power compared to Aang and predecessors with specialized skills of sub-bending. Among her skills were soundbending, glassbending, metalbending, lavabending, healing and lightning. Tala also used her power to fuse elements for increased power, particularly air and firebending to fly and create powerful fireblasts. Perhaps Tala's most notorious abilities were bloodbending, combustion-bending and stormbending.

Tala also strayed from past Avatars who kept a small retinue of loyal companions, a Team Avatar if you will. She elected to travel with a small army in the form of the War Born. Tala's private organization consisted of her Dai Li family, former Fire Nation Dragon elites, water bending mercenaries and the rumor of airbending assassins. Tala sent her army to clear the way and clean up messes on her behalf. If the threat was too great, she would personally handle affairs. Tala brutally handled issues and her arrival was feared as a death sentence. Tala split her residence between Kyoshi Island and the Whispering Canyon Estate that was donated by Fire Lord Rishu. Needless to say, the War Born's reputation preceded them and they disappeared just as quickly when Avatar Tala died of old age.

Lirin thought on the expectations that came with the Avatar legacy. Tala was a true warrior, Korra was strong, and Aang was a pacifist. Going back further, Roku was overly cautious, Kyoshi was brutal and Kuruk was inattentive. Most people would probably lump Lirin together with Kuruk when history would judge him.

Lirin felt a little sad about that, but ultimately made his peace with that. He knew he wasn't a great legend like his great-grandmother, Tala. Luckily, she had worked hard to bring peace to the continent while his grandfather, Rishu, ruled the Fire Nation fairly and justly. Together, the world saw an era of peace that it hadn't seen since Yangchen was Avatar.  

Furthermore, the Earth Kingdom truly recovered and built up for the first time in a millennia. Omashu, the largest city in the southern Earth Kingdom became a Principality directly ruled by Prince Kiir. With Iruei in the north and Kiir in the south, technology, order, and prosperity finally came to the Earth Kingdom as its resources were finally managed in a centralized system rather than discordant provinces.

The Air Nation was stable but filled with bitter residents over the reorganization from a society of everyone represented and ruling, to a society ruled by monks. Even today, people still flew United Republic Flags during official events as their own little rebellion.

Perhaps one of the lasting effects was the downfall of the Order of the White Lotus. In the ancient past, the White Lotus was a secret organization that revealed itself to liberate Ba Sing Se. After that, it served as both glorified bodyguards and prison guards for deadly prisoners like Zaheer. However, it became intricately tied to the politics of Omashu. When Tala turned sides, they remained allied with King Urri. The final battle saw half of their numbers slaughtered and more imprisoned for war crimes committed against the residents of Omashu. The few surviving leaders who escaped went into hiding, returning to the past of a secret society.

In all, Lirin had a lot to live up to and only one more element to train before having to meet expectations. The mover was nearing the end as it commented on the rare fact that Avatar Lirin was related to two past Avatars, Tala and Roku. Avatars are supposed to transcend borders and divisions, and yet somehow it had almost become a bloodline with the Fire Nation Royal Family.

Lirin recalled that when the Fire Sages announced his status on his fifteenth birthday. He joked that he was the great grandson of the Avatar, not her reincarnation. The shock it sent through his family was palpable. Lirin was just about to be sent to a fairly remote military outpost by his father in the hopes that he would grow up, instead he was to train in airbending and start the path of an Avatar.

Rather than discipline, Zorin had to cover for Lirin's attitude to ensure it did not cause international incidents, like in the case of Lirin's tryst with a certain Air Nomad who was already married. The young Avatar wasn't sure whether to be grateful or angry that his life would now be dictated by world affairs instead of his own volition.

The Royal Court[]

The Airship finally arrived in Ba Sing Se after the resupply and a brief stay overnight. A column of soldiers and Royal Guards were present to welcome the Avatar and his entourage. A civil officer at the front bowed as he spoke, "Welcome, Avatar Lirin, we are honored by your presence. And your decision to learn earthbending in Ba Sing Se. I am Huan, Grand Secretariat of Ba Sing Se."

"The honor is mine, Grand Secretariat. Only a fool would reject the invitation of the Earth King. I understand Prince Qon has come from Omashu in order to help in my training. I look forward to learning from a respected master."

Huan smiled, no doubt the rumors of Lirin's behavior preceded him and colored the expectations of the Earth Kingdom officials who would deal with him. Exceeding that impression was helpful as Lirin proceeded to the royal court of the Earth King.

As the great doors opened, Lirin saw a large audience on the periphery watching as his entourage entered the view of the Earth King. Before him was a throne and behind it was a great piece of sculpted art symbolizing the badgermole, the source of earthbending.

On the throne was Earth King Luei and beside him was Crown Prince Qon. Luei was the son of Earth King Kiir but he didn't look like the hulking giant of a man his father was. Luei's own parentage was surprising in that his mother was once an assassin that failed to kill Kiir. As a prisoner, Kiir became enamored with the woman and eventually married her. While little is known about Luei's mother, only a fool would assume she retained a traditional role as a queen. Luei was known to employ subversive means to keep discord from rising in the Earth Kingdom.

Prince Qon, on the other hand, was considered to be a duplicate of his grandfather, Kiir. Qon was large, aggressive, and self-assured. Qon was well-known to strike first, ask questions later.

As Lirin approached the throne, he gave a respectful bow and waited for the King to speak. "Welcome, young Avatar. We are honored by your presence in our great capital."

"Thank you, your majesty, I am honored by the invitation to train in earthbending in the capital." Lirin turned slightly to Qon and bowed slightly again, "And I am honored to learn under a master as strong as Prince Qon." Qon nodded slightly in acknowledgement.

Luei looked to the spectators, "If you will all excuse us, we would like to speak to the Avatar in private." The crowd filed out as only select Royal Guards stayed along with Lirin, Imperial Firebenders, Qon and Luei remained.

Some Royal Guards brought forward a table and seats. The Earth King and Prince stepped down from the throne and sat down at the table and beckoned Lirin. "Come, young Avatar, have tea with us."

Lirin sat down as Luei poured tea, "I have found myself to enjoy mint tea, it is good for your digestion, which may prove handy for the overly rich diet of a royal."

"Much appreciated, your liege." Lirin accepted the cup and sipped at the warm beverage, enjoying the subtle taste. "Indeed, most royals have a rather rich cuisine for their respective culture. Although my time at the Whispering Canyon Temple showed me that there is such a thing overly bland food."

Qon chuckled at that as he drew a box with pastries out. Luei continued, "Since you are to train soon, I imagine life in Ba Sing Se may appear as a bit of a shock to you. Each nation has cultural differences. Cuisine, recreation, social etiquette."

"I think I will manage. As long as I learn earthbending and get to enjoy the occasional night out, I think I will do just fine. I have heard of some wonderful places here in the Impenetrable City." Lirin smiled as his eyes flashed between amber gold and black.

Luei chuckled, "Indeed, your particular appetite is well-known. To be honest, I am surprised you do not have children yet. Qon has only the one wife and is blessed with three sons."

Lirin laughed, "Well, it is probably for the best. Ursa would rather I was a eunuch so that I didn't sire any children that could challenge her right to the throne. As you can imagine, the idea of a prince and Avatar as one brings about some absurd ideas." Lirin mentioned the topic in passing as a joke, knowing that his father would rather he never appear as successor.

Luei and Qon shared a look between each other. "Indeed, some may think the claim of a prince Avatar would supersede that of an elder sister."

"There may be some who hold that view, but the general consensus of the Fire Nation is that Princess Ursa is the rightful heir. Plus, I was already known as a less than reputable royal before I was announced as the Avatar, so some people feel relieved that they will be rid of me as I will have to travel the world rather than stay and rule the homeland."

"Perhaps, and what of those who do support your place in court? What do they think?"

Lirin chuckled as he briefly sipped some more tea, "Usually something along the lines of what political power would come from the foremost international arbitrator being the leader of a nation. Or at the least steering issues in our interests. Of course, they would be shocked to discover I don't much care what the Fire Nation's position is." Lirin spoke sarcastically, feeling that the two positions were diametrically opposed.

"That would be a considerably powerful combination. The Fire Lord and Avatar in one would be hard to say no to or to negotiate equally with..." A dark look possessed Luei as he drank his tea, as if a dangerous fear crept over his soul.

The Impenetrable City[]

Lirin was sitting at a balcony in the room provided him as the sun set over the horizon. An attendant approached him, "My lord, Prince Qon has requested to speak with you."

"Let him in, I could use some company."

The large prince walked over as Lirin stood up, "Avatar Lirin, I was hoping we could speak with one another before the day ends."

"Certainly, although I imagine we will have plenty of opportunities to speak going forward." Lirin wasn't sure how long it would take him to master earthbending, but he presumed it would take at least a year.

"... Of course," Qon paused for a moment before responding, "I wanted your advice as someone who was raised in a royal house but who has also learned from multiple cultures. I figured your advice about conflicts might be illuminating."

"Illuminating?" Lirin raised his eyebrow, waiting for the other shoe to drop. Half-expecting a joke that never came, he responded, "Well, I am not so wise or experienced as my sister, but I don't think myself an idiot on governmental affairs either. Ask whatever you wish, Prince Qon." Lirin decided to be humble. As a prince, Lirin was taught well and knew much about governance, even if he didn't apply himself.

"As you know, Omashu is now a Principality directly ruled by the Crown Prince. Among the responsibilities, I rule not only Omashu directly, but I also manage the provinces of the southern Earth Kingdom. This includes Gaoling and Zaofu. I'm sure you are aware that both territories are wealthy, fairly independent and claim Beifongs as leaders. Suyin Beifong founded Zaofu and some of her children moved to Gaoling to look after their grandparents and took permanent residence as the branch of the family."

Qon and Lirin walked along the balcony, which was a considerable length. "If in the future, I were to have a child born from a Beifong of Gaoling, and later a child from the family in Zaofu, who would have better claim?"

"Are you planning a marriage spree of the Beifongs the way my father did with Avatar Tala's progeny?" Lirin joked before answering more seriously, "There are several issues that prevent the situation from being so cut and dry. For one, the claim you speak has different importance based on local, region or global. Since you have children already, they will have claim as your heir, so if this is a matter of one of them inheriting leadership of the province their family has ruled, then there shouldn't be any problem if they are the only heir."

"As for the southern region, it does get a bit more complicated. Gaoling is an older province with a history rivaled only by Omashu there in the south. However, Zaofu is the seat of innovation in benders and technology of the region. Plus, the Beifongs who remained in Zaofu are by all accounts the best of the bunch. If you were to support one or the other to serve as some sort of governor, you would have to concern yourself with whether you are more worried about tradition or progress. When you decide that, the choice will be clear."

"As for the global consequence, the idea of a Beifong truly joining the lineage of the Earth King is undeniably attractive. You have the potential for future benders to be of the highest order, on par with the matriarch who made their name truly famous outside of Gaoling. The question is which is more important to you, the potential for a powerful bender greater than your grandfather Kiir, or an easy succession by anointing your firstborn."

"There will be support for crowning a southern-born Beifong as Crown Prince or Princess in the future, but nobles in the north will oppose it. You risk conflict, but you can skillfully head it off with the right inducements. Like assurances for position and status in the regime change. Some may demand that you keep the firstborn as heir and you may have to be a bit deceptive to keep them in line until it is too late for them to oppose it." Qon had a serious look on his face as Lirin explained his concerns with the hypothetical situation the Crown Prince raised.

Lirin answered thoughtfully, "Of course, that all seems like a headache. Better to just not have a girl from both parts of the family and just pick one. From personal experience, having two sisters for partners may seem fun but it will come with its own conflicts and rivalries."

"Hmm, that certainly is something to worry about. Thank you for your consideration on this, Avatar Lirin. I feel I have a better grasp on the future."

"So, are you planning to marry a Beifong girl from each province? Or are you perhaps worried about which one to pick with perceptions in mind?"

"Haha, not quite."

Lirin was out on the town as incognito as he could be with plainclothes guards nearby watching him. He moved around the Upper and Middle Ring to find a decent place to party and pretty girls to entertain himself with. To respect his father's wish that he does not make a mess, he relied on his looks and wit and not his status to woo girls. His flashing eyes did the charm for the third night in a row.

Lirin was walking with a beautiful woman with soft brown hair and dark green eyes as she led him to her favorite hotel. It was a high-end location that accepted diplomatic guests when estates were full, as was the case for coronations, funerals and royal weddings. The fact the girl could get a reservation meant she belonged in the Upper Ring. Lirin smiled on this thought, knowing that the odds of seeing her after the night would increase if she had a enough status to possibly visit the palace.

Drinks were poured as Lirin sat down and Jin went to change. He enjoyed the sweet taste of the mixed drink as he felt elated by his hopes for the night. However, he felt a little numb, perhaps he drank too much at the party and it was getting to him. He decided not to bother getting up as he could feel how tired he was and called out to Jin, "I think we might have to call this night short."

The young woman reappeared, she had certainly changed, except she wore more clothing rather than less. "I'm afraid we can't quite end the night so soon, Avatar Lirin."

Lirin closed his eyes as he didn't have enough time to process what was happening before he lost consciousness.

Lirin woke up with a fuzzy feeling in his head. It wasn't a hangover but it wasn't a headache either. As Lirin stood up and reached for the table, he realized that his hand touched rough stone and cold metal.

As his vision returned, Lirin realized he was in a windowless cell. It was small and dark, meant to enhance a claustrophobic nature. Lirin's hazy stance strengthened as guards appeared, "The Earth King wants to speak to you."

The guards shackled him as they roughly pushed him forward through this underground prison. Lirin senses were returning to him, though the lights seemed bright as they left the prison and presumably returned aboveground.

As he was escorted to the throne room, he saw the Earth King and Prince waiting for him. There wasn't an ounce of kindness or respect as they looked at the Avatar.

"What is the meaning of this?" Lirin decided it was best to get the obvious questions out of the way first.

"We took necessary precautions to ensure you couldn't cause trouble while being captured. We were fortunate the rumors of your licentious behavior were accurate. Or else, the opportunity to get you with minimal security would have been reduced." Luei answered matter-of-factly to Lirin's question.

"Father, I believe the Avatar is referring to why we captured him in the first place." Qon responded as to affirm the subject sarcastically.

"Well, as for that. It comes down the fact that we don't trust you."

"And what is that supposed to mean?" Lirin asked with frustration.

"Many things, Prince Lirin. You are a threat to the Earth Kingdom and the balance of the world." Luei adjusted himself on the throne as he continued, "Past Avatars have become intricately tied with governments and have had relations to rulers, Avatar Korra was daughter of the Southern Water Tribe Chief. But that position was one elected by the people of the tribe. Being his daughter did not mean she inherited the position, not like you."

"I am not heir to the Fire Lord, Ursa is Crown-Princess."

"And Tonraq was heir to the Northern Water Tribe before his brother deceived him and got him exiled. Do you really think the order of succession is enough to stop you if you want the throne? The power you would possess as Fire Lord and Avatar would be limitless. The balance of the nations would be shattered beyond repair."

Qon joined the conversation again, "A few days ago, I came by to test you. You are far smarter than your reputation let on. That is both good and bad. If you were a fool, then you could be easily manipulated for your father's agenda of subtle expansion. Do you really think your father kept marrying offspring of the Avatar for a fetish? He did it to increase his political and cultural clout. With one marriage he took Kyoshi Island and the neighboring isles, and the other he solidified the power of his house in the Fire Nation."

"I asked you what should a power planning to expand do to placate those they would deceive," Qon continued, "Your father offered the very same promises and inducements to keep us placated that you suggested on a smaller scale."

Luei spoke up again, "Your father plans to use your status to do what a century of invasions couldn't do in the past, to take over the world. Perhaps you will not formally be crowned the Fire Lord, but you will in effect become the ruler of all nations if you have the undivided resources of the Fire Nation backing you."

Lirin responded, "This is ridiculous, are you honestly that paranoid that you think I am plotting to take over the world? Do I look like someone who cares to conquer?"

"You are a greater threat than anyone can ever have believed, Prince Lirin. You are insightful, powerful and have all the right connections to begin the first steps of a subversion campaign or even a first-strike incursion."

"What?"

"Your sister is Grand General of the Army and is known to be training a rapid response force for hitting land within half a day. Your country still has a massive military base in Yu Dao, capable of capturing Republic City, and holding the Air Nation capital hostage. You are in contact with the Wolves Mercenary Company in the north, which is famous for its bloodbenders. They could carry out a decapitation strike against any opponents of yours. And you are the great grandson of Avatar Tala. While many people on the continent have a decidedly negative impression of the past Avatar, it is only matched by the fervent loyalty she instilled in those she protected. And finally, although we have yet to confirm it, the Earth Kingdom is certain that the Dai Li will seek to serve you as the new Avatar who is related by blood."

"Those conditions are possible of any royal or Avatar. All royals, regardless of nation have connections to groups beyond their own nation. And all Avatars train with powerful masters and have contact with politically powerful leaders." Lirin couldn't believe the conspiratorial nonsense they were spewing.

"Yes, but very few have the plethora of combining those strengths all in one."

"So, what do you plan to do with me?"

"That will depend on what the Fire Lord decides to do about our demands when we send them. If he agrees to certain controls, then you will live and spend some time as our guest."

"After this deception, a betrayal of hospitality? You are oath breakers! Your word can't be trusted. My father will never treat with you, nor my sister. I am smart enough to know that. You are risking a global war bigger than the Fifth Nation War. A conflict on a scale not seen since the Hundred Year War. Is that really what you want?"

"If the Fire Lord refuses our demands, then we have the ability to force the Fire Nation to surrender. If war is necessary to stop the menace of the Fire Nation from ever rising again, then we will see to it. And if that means you must become the first casualty of that war, then so be it." The cold look Luei gave betrayed no emotion or fear. The Earth King would not hesitate to kill the Avatar if he did not get his way.

Lirin sighed, "I was afraid you would say that." His dark eyes flashed as he strained and everyone lurched in pain. Their bodies contorted against their wills as Lirin stood calmly in the center.

"Did you think it took me two years to learn how to throw water around? It was bloodbending that took the most work and so much training to do it."

Qon spoke in a struggling voice, "You can bloodbend in the day?"

"Oh, was it day? I didn't know. It doesn't matter, the Moon is the same relative distance from us at any given time as far as cosmic alignment is concerned, so only a superficial bender would fail to understand that and be prevented from Bloodbending at any time. Master Ralyn may now be an old woman too frail to fight, but she and her son have revolutionized techniques that were thought lost with Amon."

Lirin nodded to one of the guards as his body floated over to him and presented a key. A sickening crack of bone led to a scream of pain, but it did not stop the arm from moving and releasing Lirin from his shackles.

Lirin waved his free hand and the guard crashed into a nearby pillar. With a clap of his hands, the rest of the guards fell down, collapsing to the internal pressure Lirin forced on them. With his left hand, he gestured to the father and son before him and their bodies dragged themselves before him. He made them kneel before him.

"I should kill you where you grovel, but that would prove your point, wouldn't it? I will spare your lives, Earth King Luei and Crown Prince Qon, but with this warning. If you try to harm the Fire Nation, there is no mercy I will exercise against the Earth Kingdom in the future. All the suffering that your family and this nation will suffer will be on your head."

"You will regret it, Prince Lirin, I assure you of that." Qon spoke venomously. His eyes rolled over as he passed out from Lirin forcing his body to sleep.

Lirin looked at the two unconscious royals before running. He had to escape Ba Sing Se.

Escape[]

Lirin managed to get to the small palace reserved for his entourage with little trouble to find several dead Imperial Firebenders. He soon saw two Royal Guards perusing through the dead servants that were left behind by their wake. A dark fire took Lirin's eyes as the earthbenders noticed Lirin. The young Avatar grasped forward and the body of one of the guards lifted up as he screamed in agony. Soon, spikes of blood ripped out of him. Lirin pulled his clenched fist back and the blood coalesced into a single red blade as the corpse fell lifelessly.

The red blade spun rapidly, decapitating the second guard. Two more guards appeared and rushed for the Avatar. Lirin motioned his hand intricately and fired a bolt of lightning, incinerating one of the guards while the other levitated in a contorted pose.

Lirin brought the last surviving guard forward, "What did you do with the survivors?"

"What survivors? Agh!" The guard screamed.

"There aren't enough bodies here for all the people who came with me and the diplomatic staff that was already here. Tell me where they are, and I will end this quickly."

"They were taken to a prison in the Middle Ring!"

Lirin tightened his grip, "One of the first things you learn as a prince, is to tell how someone is lying to you!"

One of the guard's legs bent and twisted in unnatural ways as the guard wail from the torture.

"They are in a prison beneath the royal temple! It's an expansion near the ancient city catacombs! Please!"

"Very well, thank you for your honesty." Lirin tightened his fist further. The guard continued to scream as his body twisted on itself, cracking and crunching a sick menagerie of torture before a pile of flesh fell in a thud on the ground. The young price turned away and head for what remained of his people.

Alarms blared as guards rushed through the hallway. The prisoners looked at the confusion, "What's going on?"

"No idea, maybe some unruly prisoners."

The sound of flames and screams followed as Lirin's figure appeared before a group of cells. "Prince Lirin! Thank the Spirits, you're okay!"

"Let's get you out of here." Lirin gesture as a floating body appeared and one of the prison guards hovered closer. "Release them, or this becomes unpleasant."

The guard furiously fumbled for his keys with the little motor freedom he had, desperate not to be oppressed by bloodbending again. As all the cells opened, he looked fearfully at the Fire Nation Prince. He looked tired and not at all dressed regally, and yet the aura of his wrath was palpable. "Open the other cells and I will let you live."

The guard nodded and rushed to release the other prisoners. One of the Imperial FIrebenders who had been stripped of his ceremonial armor inquired, "Your highness, why do you want to release the others?"

"Distraction, the more people breaking out of their secret prisons, the less soldiers they can devote to our capture alone. Now we need to steal an airship but also make sure a few decoys go at the same time."

"I can set remote guidance for several sir, but we would probably be better off escaping on an airplane, it will be faster and harder for their fighters to intercept." One of the Fire Nation soldiers spoke up.

"Very well let's go."

Plea for Help[]

Lirin rested unsteadily in the airplane as it raced to Yu Dao. He was amazed the plan had worked. A sizeable prison break turned into a massive prison riot. When the populace saw these ‘missing' people flood out of the Earth King's Temple, they realized that Luei had repeated Hou Ting's policies of secret prisons and anarchy broke out in the city. No one had time to pay attention to a dozen people wearing red in the mass hysteria. Lirin's men set off several airships, including their own Fire Nation Diplomatic Airship while they boarded an airplane from the Middle Ring. The interceptors composed of airships and fighter planes prioritized the airships.

The airplane had already crossed into Air Nation territory before the Earth Kingdom forces caught wise to the ruse. As they were deciding what to do now they had escaped the Earth Kingdom, Lirin stepped up to lead.

"We need to head to Yu Dao first, not back home."

"Why not, your Highness?"

"The Earth Kingdom will be expecting us to do that and probably try to shoot us down over the water. They can send a plane from further west to cut us off once we leave Air Nation borders. If we go by Yu Dao, we can change our mode of transit and add security. We can also warn the Fire Nation from there before the Earth Kingdom has a chance to strike."

Lirin sat up and looked out the window, "We can also ask the Air Nation to intercede on our behalf to prevent this conflict from escalating. Air Nomads are not exactly warmongers, so that is in our favor."

"Very well, your highness. We should reach Yu Dao soon."

The Earth Kingdom airplane landed at the Fire Nation Airbase just on the outskirts of the bustling city. Lirin and his entourage warned the high command of the situation and their escape from Ba Sing Se.

Lirin was rushed to headquarters to personally warn his father and sister of the situation. After the shock and questions about the incident itself passed, Lirin pressed for answers, "Are we ready to face the Earth Kingdom?"

"Not as ready as I would like, Lirin." Ursa answered in a worried tone.

"What do you mean?"

"The command for the army to be at standby is already going out. However, a portion of our Navy, including the Grand Admiral, it tied up with heavy piracy around Kyoshi Island and the surrounding isles. I suspect that Prince Qon arranged for this to coincide with your departure in case war broke out."

"And what about the Air Force?"

Zorin's deep voice responded, "The Air Force is at the ready, however we are short on ideal supplies for munitions. We had been buying them from the Air Nation and Zaofu when these pirates began raiding our transports carrying the munitions. Clearly, the Earth Kingdom had been making these preparations in advance."

Lirin muttered a little louder than he intended, "He isn't the only one."

"Excuse me?" Zorin asked. Lirin breathed deeply before responding, "I understand you made some overtures to the Earth King while I was in Ba Sing Se? It seems these promises appeared to be inherently deceptive. Or rather impossible to keep."

Zorin answered calmly, "I only wanted to assure them that there was no reason for tensions to be rising between us."

"And your reason for keeping me out of the loop on this? Not to mention the military movements that were being tracked east of the Si Wong Desert?" Lirin learned about military movement reported by scouts from the base commander.

"Frankly speaking, I saw no value in telling my son who was more concerned with how many women he would meet in Ba Sing Se than the national security of his homeland."

"Personal failings of mine aside, you sent an ignorant Avatar into a hostile situation blind. I have half a mind to demand your abdication for instigating a war! At least if Ursa is officially crowned Fire Lord, we may be able to walk the Earth King back." Lirin was fuming at the idea that he so ignorantly walked into a trap.

"No," Ursa spoke with resolution, "Father wasn't the only one who chose to keep you out of the conversation. I was there too. Furthermore, if I was crowned, it would be capitulation to threats from a foreign nation that has declared war on us. I refused to surrender the strategic or moral advantage and be remembered as the Fire Lord who came because the Earth Kingdom threatened to invade us."

Ursa continued, "If the enemy wants a war because my brother is the Avatar, then that is the bed they made. We must prepare. There hasn't been a successful invasion of the Fire Nation in millennia, even the strike force that attacked during the Day of Black Sun was beaten back."

Lirin calmed down as he listened to his sister take command of what was becoming a heated argument, "Very well. Before I return home, I will head to Republic City and see if I can't get some help from the Air Nation with some negotiators getting in to stop this."

"Good, I will ask the Grand Admiral if he can contact the Water Tribes and see what they will do and perhaps join us if the Earth Kingdom means to invade. Or at the very least to not join against us."

Silence followed on the call before Zorin answered, "Very well. We all have our roles to play. Lirin, you must be swift in your outreach to the Air Nation. The Earth Kingdom may need time to marshal, but they have a headstart."

Outreach[]

Lirin waited at the doors of the Air Temple. He had initially traveled to city hall to meet with the Council to directly request the aid of the Air Nation. However, a master airbender told him that the masters of the Council were meditating on Air Temple Island and would meet with them there.

As the doors opened, Lirin entered a little irritable but still respectful. He had sent word ahead of time to inform them of the urgency of their meeting and yet he waited an hour to meet with them. Lirin presumed this was their little rebellion for his misconduct at the Whispering Canyon Air Temple.

"Masters," regardless of that, Lirin showed them respect, "I wish I could extend all formalities and grace, but I have come for a grave issue that I wish to seek your help and counsel."

"Of course, young Avatar. Word from the Earth King is that you tried to assassinate him with bloodbending?"

"A convenient interpretation. The Earth King held me prisoner and made clear that if he couldn't use me as a hostage to force my father to capitulate to his demands, that he would kill me. I used bloodbending to defend myself without killing either Luei or Qon."

"And why we he take the Avatar hostage to begin with?" An Air Nomad inquired.

"Master Jinora, he believes that I will inherit the throne and become Fire Lord. With that power, he fears I will go on to conquer the other nations. It is a fear I assured him was impossible. I am not the heir to the Fire Lord, nor am I the popular choice by any means."

"If that is so, then surely there is a way to guarantee that to the Earth Kingdom." Another Air Nomad chimed in.

"I had hoped so too. But for Luei, the only action he would accept is me prisoner and for the surrender of the Fire Nation to Earth Kingdom supremacy. I seem to recall a figure in history called Kuvira who thought the same way as he did." Lirin chided the Air Nomad for entertaining the notion.

"If that is so, then what would you ask of us?"

"I would like for the nations to show a united front against the Earth King in the hopes that will discourage him from escalating the conflict further. If that is not enough, I would like for the Air Nation to serve as arbitrators for a negotiation for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Surely the loss of life can be avoided on both sides."

The monks kept their silence for a moment before a Master from Clan Ikki joined in, "I am not sure what we can do as a separate nation who does not have a vested interest in the situation without joining the war, of which we cannot condone."

"A vested interest? There is both an Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation military base not far from Republic City, Taku and Yu Dao. If the conflict becomes prolonged, are you saying that the Earth Kingdom won't march from Taku? Thereby sending military forces through Air Nation lands. They are also likely to pass through your territorial waters in order to shorten the travel time. This is less a vested interest than a serious issue of sovereignty."

"Indeed, those are concerns we must consider," Master Jinora responded, "However, they do not necessitate military retaliation. In the past, the United Republic of Nations did consider such actions as reason enough to go to war. The Air Nation, by virtue of our way of life, sees things differently."

A chill came to Lirin's voice and his eyes remained dark as he responded, "So I take it that you have already made arrangements with Earth King Luei for his military to pass through your waters to invade?"

None of the monks answered, "I don't seem to recall Fire Lord Zorin doing anything against the Air Nation that would be so egregious that you would conspire with the Earth King against us."

"We are not siding with anyone right now, we simply-"

Lirin cut them off, "Oh no, but you are going to let them march to war with another nation through your land and waters? You may not be sending troops, but you are conspiring with them."

The monks dodged his stare as disgust took his face, "I see that I wasted my time. One last question, what did we do to deserve this treachery?"

An airbender from Clan Meelo muttered, "Ask Avatar Tala."

"So, you would judge me on a past life? Typical airbender. Cowardly and hypocritical," Lirin saw emotions flare at the provocation. He smirked, "No wonder your people were wiped out before."

Lirin began walking out, realizing that they had him meet them at the island rather than city hall so that it wasn't an official rejection from the government.

Lirin turned to look at the monks, "I promise you this airbenders, I will not forget this. I will repay the suffering of my people on yours."

Outbreak[]

The Fire Nation jet landed on an island not far from Capital City. Military officers and government officials were waiting for Prince Lirin as he departed the plane. "Prince Lirin, Fire Lord Zorin and General Ursa request you make haste to join a war meeting tonight."

"Very well, what news since I departed Yu Dao?"

"At the moment, Yu Dao is safe. It appears they are focusing their attention on a naval blockade. They know Yu Dao doesn't have the forces to break a blockade and reinforce us, but it is strongly fortified enough to withstand a siege."

"What about Grand Admiral Ayu? Will he be able to arrive before the Earth Kingdom?"

"Based on our last estimate, it is uncertain. The Fire Lord may have more current information."

Lirin entered the throne room to see an old design retake the main area. In the past, a large table with a map of the world signified the progress of the Hundred Year War. After Fire Lord Zuko's coronation, the need for it was gone. Even during the Fifth Nation War, such meetings were held elsewhere.

However, this was a war in which the Fire Nation would be invaded. The large map covered the islands and the western part of the continent in great detail. Lirin sat on his father's left side while Ursa sat at his right.

Zorin looked to one of his aide's "Colonel Shi, your report."

"Your majesty, as my sources have confirmed, Grand Admiral Ayu's fleet was assaulted through combination of sabotage and surprise attacks that have delayed them. The majority of the fleet is now by Kyoshi Island and Whale Tail Island for repairs and resupplies. They will not get here before the Earth King's fleet." A pale officer answered. Shi was different from the rest of the court in many ways.

"Will they be able to break the blockade?" Ursa inquired.

"Yes, but the casualties will be significant. The Earth Kingdom forces are by quality lower than ours, but they outnumber us ten-to-one in manpower and three-to-one in fleet size. Once situated, breaking their blockade would cost us half of our fleet and leave them with enough to continue a siege."

"What do you suggest, then?"

"We need to prepare for land incursions as well as make preparations to sabotage them where we can. We have superior long-range bombers that we can use to hit them from afar. I suspect that will be one of their early targets."

The Grand Marshal of the Air Force joined in, "The airfields you speak of are the furthest from the Earth Kingdom, you think they will strike there first?"

"Yes sir. These bases would allow us to sink their fleet from afar with little to no resistance. They will rush these islands before battle lines are drawn so as to remove this threat from the equation."

Zorin was silent for a moment, "I agree, this is a threat. General Ursa, Marshal Zun, I want plans made to turn back an attack on our airfields to the west. Send word to Admiral Ayu to make haste. If we can retain a channel in the south, the blockade will fail."

"Yes, my lord." Shi and the other generals agreed before bringing up logistics and other preparation issues about how each island was ready or not for assault. As the meeting ended, the Fire Lord had his children stay behind.

"Ursa, I would like you to join Marshal Zun and take your personal force and the Dust Dragons to defend the airfields." Zorin's tone was somber.

"Yes, sir."

"Father, are you sure that is wise?" Lirin chimed in, "As Grand General, shouldn't she lead the overall defense of the army?"

"Yes, however, Marshal Zun's forces will not be enough if the Earth King's forces blitz all three major airfields at once. Zun has enough men to maybe hold two, but not all three big ones, especially not all the small ones that surround it. Ursa's arrival will not only increase manpower, but morale."

"Then I should join as well," Lirin surmised that if Ursa was going to be in the thick of it, he should be by her side.

"No, you will remain here." Lirin was about to object when Zorin continued, "The airfields will not be their only target. With Zun and Ursa occupied in the west and Admiral Ayu in the south, someone needs to defend the homeland and give legitimacy to our cause."

"I am hardly the hardened war commander that my sister is. I can fight, but leading is a skill I was not prepared for."

"Colonel Shi can help."

Lirin had a complicated look on his face, "I never understood why you recruited a spirit to serve as your spymaster, father."

"Spirit or not, Shi is one of the most capable beings I have met in my life and the most loyal friend I could have."

Indeed, Shi may have taken the form of a human, but he was not. His appearance was slightly off, the pale skin and large eyes with no white in them were giveaways, but the way he carried himself was different. It was like mortal concerns did not bring him fear. Maybe that was why he was willing to do such daring things that had drawn Zorin's admiration as a prince.

Few had seen Shi's true form and not even Lirin knew what it was. All Lirin knew is that he was loyal to a fault.

No one argued further against Zorin's decisions, "Well then, you must go Ursa. Return home safely."

"I will, father," Ursa stood up and gave a slight bow with her gesture of a flame from her hand.

Ursa walked out of the palace and head to an open space where a few dragons rested. Lirin chased after her, "Ursa, are you really alright with this? You should be leading the defense here, not me."

"Perhaps, but it is not entirely unwarranted, little brother. If the Earth King sends his best to hit our air force, I need to be there with the Dust Dragons, holding them off. In the event that they strike the capital, your presence will be needed. However, the odds of them striking Capital City itself in the first wave are relatively low. They need to secure a beachhead first."

"Still, I feel like something is wrong."

Ursa chuckled and turned back to Lirin, "Do not fret, Lirin. Once we have saved the airfields, I will return to prepare a counterattack. Earth King Luei won't know what hit him. He will regret dismissing me as the spare in the Fire Nation Royal Family."

Ursa finally reached her dragon, Kaliya. The blue dragon tensed as it readied to fly once her master settled.

"Be safe, Ursa. We need you."

"I will brother. After all, someone needs to be Fire Lord next." Ursa cracked a smile. She then chimed again, "By the way, you should bother to say hi Mira, now that you are back."

Lirin rolled his eyes at her chiding. Kaliya flew off, heading for the nearby base, no doubt to marshal her forces and depart of the airfields.

Lirin followed Ursa's advice and went to see Mira. She was elated to see Lirin was alright. Apparently, she had been distraught when she heard that he had to flee Ba Sing Se. For his part, Lirin was glad that Ursa kept Mira in the capital. The thought of Mira being one of the dead at the diplomatic palace was paralyzing.

As Lirin and Mira slept in the night, an officer rushed in, "Prince Lirin! Oh, excuse me miss. My lord, our scouts have reported a fleet passing not far from Jang Hui. It appears that Colonel Shi's intel that they are rushing for the airfields is correct."

Lirin sat up and reached for a robe. He looked to Mira and insisted she rest and that he would return when he could. Lirin followed the officer who tried to look away from the beautiful woman on the bed.

"What other forces have been seen?" Lirin inquired.

"Yu Dao's advance scout reported a fleet has already come through the pass from the West Lake and are resupplying at the port before continuing to Fire Nation waters."

"So, it has begun?"

"Yes, my lord. The Earth Kingdom has invaded the Fire Nation."

Notes[]

  • Lirin has a very complicated status and ancestry. He is descended from Fire Lord Zorin, who is a descendent of both Zuko and Azula through Rishu. He is also descended from at least two Avatars, Roku and Tala. As Avatar and Prince of the Fire Nation, this is a political tsunami that nearly occurred with Avatar Korra, except her father was exiled from his tribe before she was born.
  • The Air Nation has a difficult relationship with the Fire Nation and Avatar after the events of the Fifth Nation War. The Air Nation also know that if Lirin dies, an Air Nomad will become the next Avatar.
  • The Fire Nation and Earth Kingdom are meant to be parallels to Japan and China in many regards. In this setting, we see largely unified and advanced Earth Kingdom go on the offensive against the Fire Nation, which had not been the norm before.

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