43 A Meeting with Zuko
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In the depths of Bumi's mind, a flicker of disbelief danced as he gazed upon the majestic edifice that stood before him, the resplendent royal palace of the Fire Nation. Memories surged forth, like the fiery embers of his past, as he reflected on the numerous occasions he had tread upon these hallowed grounds. As the esteemed commander of the second division of the United Forces, it had been his solemn duty to traverse the halls of this regal abode, a duty he had fulfilled with unwavering commitment. However, in the recesses of his heart, Bumi had bid farewell to these opulent walls, yearning for the tranquility of retirement. Yet, fate, with its capricious hand, had deemed otherwise, thrusting upon him a new predicament that demanded his presence within the very confines he had sought to leave behind.
As Bumi strolled through the bustling streets of the Fire Nation's vibrant cityscape, a lively symphony of chatter and laughter filled the air. The city, though lacking the cutting-edge technological marvels of Republic City, exuded an indescribable charm that seemed to captivate its inhabitants. The infectious joy that permeated the atmosphere ignited a warmth within Bumi's heart as he reveled in the harmonious symphony of children's laughter and the delightful spectacle of their carefree play. Amongst the playful commotion, a group of youngsters gleefully chased after a flock of birds, their innocent pursuit echoing the spirit of adventure that coursed through the city's veins.
As Bumi strolled through the bustling market, a symphony of enticing aromas permeated the air, swirling around him like a dense and intoxicating cloud. The tantalizing scent of sizzling meat mingled harmoniously with the fragrant essence of various delectable foods, creating an irresistible olfactory tapestry. With a contented smile gracing his face, Bumi observed the vibrant scene unfolding before him. Families, young and old, eagerly navigated the vibrant stalls, their eyes alight with excitement and curiosity. The energy in the air was palpable, a testament to the enduring spirit of the people. Even after a century had passed, the Fire Nation still carried a hint of wariness in the hearts of many.
As Bumi made his way out of the city's bustling market, his gaze instinctively sought out the majestic silhouette of the Royal Castle, standing proudly in the distance, a mere two kilometers away. A sense of awe washed over him as he beheld its grandeur, his lips parting to release a soft, appreciative whistle. Despite having witnessed its splendor countless times before, the castle never failed to captivate him.
Nestled gracefully in the very heart of the majestic caldera, the resplendent royal palace commands attention with its regal presence, exuding an air of grandeur and power. It reigns supreme, surrounded by a labyrinth of enchanting homes that gracefully extend in every direction like rays of sunlight, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of architectural wonders. Standing sentinel before the palace, a vast square unravels with an awe-inspiring magnitude, serving as the veritable epicenter of the capital's pulse. This sprawling expanse, meticulously designed to accommodate the entire populace, beckons with open arms, inviting all to congregate for momentous royal proclamations and pivotal events that shape the nation's destiny.
Nestled within the heart of the bustling city, the Royal Palace stands majestically, its immediate surroundings a stark contrast to its grandeur. The land that stretches out before the palace gates, barren and rocky, seems to have succumbed to an enchanting desolation devoid of any hint of vibrant plant life. This peculiar landscape, with its rugged terrain and unwelcoming demeanor, poses an insurmountable challenge for those seeking to venture into the palace grounds undetected.
Yet, as if to emphasize the stark separation between the palace and the rest of the city, a formidable wall encircles the estate, acting as an impenetrable fortress that guards the castle.
This architectural marvel, standing tall and proud, serves to both protect the royal abode from external threats and to create an aura of exclusivity. Beyond this defensive perimeter, however, lies a breathtaking spectacle that paints a picture of opulence and beauty.
A world of lush gardens and exquisite villas unfolds, sprawling across the landscape reserved exclusively for the esteemed members of the Royal Family. These verdant oases, meticulously designed and meticulously maintained, serve as a sanctuary for nature's wonders, boasting an abundance of captivating plants, majestic trees that reach for the heavens, and tranquil ponds that shimmer like liquid diamonds in the gentle sunlight.
Within these garden retreats, the Royal Family finds solace and respite from the weight of their royal duties, their minds transported to a realm of serenity and natural splendor. The air is filled with the delicate fragrance of blossoming flowers, their vibrant colors dancing in harmony with the melody of chirping birds and the gentle rustling of leaves.
Standing tall and proud, it commands attention with its imposing presence. At its heart, a magnificent tower adorned with triple eaves ascends towards the heavens, serving as the epitome of opulence and grace. From this central point, three distinctive wings elegantly extend, weaving together an intricate tapestry of regal splendor.
To either side of the main entrance, two smaller wings gracefully flank the palace building, mirroring each other in perfect symmetry. These wings, akin to guardians of the palace's secrets, boast their own towers at their respective ends. These towers, reaching towards the sky, stand as sentinels of the palace's magnificence, casting long shadows that dance playfully upon the surrounding grounds.
Yet, it is the third and largest wing that captivates the beholder's gaze. Positioned directly opposite the main entrance, it beckons with an air of authority and importance. Within its walls, the resplendent throne room of the revered Fire Lord awaits, adorned with intricate tapestries, gilded embellishments, and a throne that radiates power and prestige.
Inside, the palace is comprised of enormous halls and retains an intricate array of wings and chambers. Large tapestries line the walls, and elaborate fire-themed images and moldings are laid out all throughout the numerous sections of the structure.
With each step Bumi took toward the towering fortress, his curiosity grew like a flickering flame in the depths of his chest. A throng of individuals emerged from the castle's confines, their expressions etched with an air of solemnity and intrigue. Each face seemed to carry a weighty tale, hinting at a clandestine event unfolding within the castle's impenetrable walls. Bumi's inquisitive mind raced, weaving a tapestry of possibilities and sparking a whirlwind of questions.
As Bumi made his way toward the magnificent castle, the vigilant guards stationed at the towering walls abruptly halted his progress, their imposing presence casting an air of authority. Undeterred, Bumi calmly reached into the depths of his cloak and produced a small, glimmering emblem, an emblem that held the weight of his identity. With a flick of his wrist, he presented it to the guards, the emblem catching the sunlight and casting a mesmerizing glow. As the guards' eyes locked onto the emblem, recognition dawned upon their faces, their stern expressions softening.
The guards, now aware of his noble status, nodded respectfully and motioned for the double metal gate to be opened. With a deafening creak, the gate began its slow ascent, each inch it moved echoing with a resounding metallic symphony reverberating through the palace grounds.
The area between the walls and the palace is barren and devoid of any cover, ensuring that potential assassins and spies attempting to infiltrate the palace will likely be spotted by the numerous guard towers.
Bumi strolled through the enchanting courtyard of the castle, its tranquil atmosphere embracing his senses. However, amidst the serenity, his keen observant eyes caught the flurry of guards scurrying about with a sense of urgency, their armor gleaming under the sun's golden rays. As he continued his leisurely walk, a growing realization dawned upon him, like a whisper in the wind, that an intriguing and momentous event was unfurling within the hallowed walls of the palace.
As Bumi approached the castle entrance, the massive wooden door was adorned with intricate carvings and embellishments. Just as he reached out to grasp the cold, iron handle, the commanding voices of the guards shattered the silence, demanding his halt.
Their presence was formidable, their authority emanating from their rigid stances and the long, crimson spears they tightly gripped. Clad in formidable armor, the soldiers exuded an aura of invincibility.
Each one wore a suit crafted with meticulous detail, consisting of a gleaming cuirass to protect their chest, tassets guarding their thighs, and a combination of shoulder pads and an armored collar for added defense. Their heavy boots, designed for endurance and stability, marked their unwavering dedication to duty. Yet, amidst this formidable attire, the most striking feature was their unique helmets. With a neck guard ensuring complete protection, the helmets boasted a flame-like crest that symbolized their unwavering commitment to the kingdom. The face mask was designed to look like a skull. Its hollow eye sockets seemed to peer into the depths of one's soul, while its twisted grin sent shivers down the spines of all who dared cross their path.
The leader of the four soldiers, adorned in a distinguished uniform that exuded authority, was the first to break the silence. With a perplexed expression, he uttered, "Commander Bumi, we weren't expecting your visit?" His words were laced with a hint of intrigue and a touch of admiration, leaving Bumi to deduce that this man must be an esteemed officer, as evidenced by the intricate details of his attire. Noteworthy among them was the gleaming medal that proudly adorned the officer's breastplate.
With a commanding voice that reverberated through the air, Bumi leaned forward. His eyes fixed unwaveringly on the officer standing before him. The weight of his words hung in the air as he inquired, "I need to talk with Fire Lord Zuko. It is a very important matter. Is he available?" The officer, taken aback by Bumi's authoritative presence, felt a slight constriction beneath his mask, his heart skipping a beat before he composed himself and cleared his throat, preparing to provide the awaited response.
"The entire council of the Fire Nation is gathered here, Commander Bumi. They are in an important meeting right now," the officer informed Bumi. The latter felt his heart skip a beat, knowing the reason why they were having a meeting.
"I need to talk with Lord Zuko. Let me in," Bumi's authoritative voice resonated through the air, causing the officer and the three stoic soldiers to exchange perplexed glances beneath their enigmatic masks. Their minds were swirling with questions, yet their disciplined training compelled them to yield to the enigmatic stranger's unwavering determination.
With a collective nod, they silently agreed to acquiesce, parting like the Red Sea to grant Bumi passage. Unperturbed by the soldiers' masked confusion, Bumi's hand swiftly reached for the gleaming bronze handle of the towering castle door, its intricate carvings hinting at the grandeur within. As the door swung open, revealing the opulent halls that lay beyond, Bumi stepped forward with resolute grace.
As Bumi ventured into the first grand hall of the castle, an awe-inspiring sight awaited him. The expansive room, adorned with majestic columns standing tall on either side, exuded an air of regality. Vibrant red tapestries, meticulously woven with intricate designs, adorned the walls, adding a touch of elegance and warmth to the otherwise stone-clad chamber. Torchlight flickered and danced, casting mesmerizing shadows that painted the hall with an ethereal glow.
A bustling scene unfolded before Bumi's eyes, with a symphony of servants and soldiers gracefully moving about, each engrossed in their respective tasks, creating a harmonious atmosphere of productivity. However, Bumi remained undistracted by the commotion, his focus unwavering as he strode purposefully through the hall, his destination clear in his mind.
As his gaze wandered through the grand castle, his eyes were inevitably drawn to the captivating masterpiece that adorned the very first hall. This magnificent portrait proudly affixed to the side of the wall, depicted a poignant moment frozen in time—an enduring symbol of unity and reconciliation. In the painting, a young Zuko and a young Avatar Aang stood side by side. Their hands clasped firmly together amidst a sea of eager onlookers. The intricately framed artwork, encased in a shield of protective glass, held both historical significance and legal implications. Within the fire nation, it was strictly forbidden to lay a finger upon this cherished piece without proper authorization, for such an act was deemed a grave offense, even tantamount to a felony.
Bumi couldn't help but smile with pride every time he set his eyes on that particular portrait. It brought him great joy to know how much the Fire Nation valued his father.
As he walked inside the castle through its large halls, the sound of his footsteps echoed around him. The high ceilings and towering walls made him feel tiny in comparison. He couldn't help but stare in wonder at the intricate details of the castle's architecture, from the ornate carvings on the walls to the intricate designs of the windows. As they ascended the stairs, Bumi's eyes were drawn to the dragon decorations that adorned the walls. Stone statues of dragons' heads protruded from the walls, their fierce expressions seeming to follow Bumi's every move. Even the candle holders attached to the walls resembled dragon hands holding the flickering flames.
A fountain was in the castle's garden, a stunning fountain adorned with a statue of a young boy at its center. The boy was depicted with a mischievous grin, and he was carrying two baby dragons made of silver - one perched atop his shoulder and the other nestled safely in his delicate, silver hands. The craftsmanship of the statue was truly remarkable, with every detail carved to perfection, from the intricate folds of the boy's clothing to the delicate scales on the dragons' bodies. As the sun beamed down upon it, the fountain sparkled and glimmered like the most precious jewel in the world, casting a rainbow of colors across the garden and evoking a sense of wonder and awe.
As Bumi ventured through the labyrinthine corridors of the castle, he neared the grand entrance to the throne room. Standing tall and resolute before the imposing entrance were six formidable guards, their crimson capes flowing majestically over their meticulously crafted uniforms.
These were no ordinary sentinels; they were esteemed members of the 'Dragon Division,' renowned for their mastery of firebending, a force to be reckoned with within the Fire Nation. Whispers of their unmatched power and unparalleled skill echoed through the nation as they were hailed as the epitome of firebending prowess, unrivaled by any other faction. Yet, amidst their esteemed ranks, only one individual was said to surpass them all, Lord Zuko.
Positioned just a few steps away from the grand entrance to the Throne Room, an elegant secretary held court at her meticulously crafted wooden desk, adorned with a striking combination of deep crimson and rich ebony hues. The desk, meticulously embellished with intricate designs, proudly displayed the emblem of the mighty Fire Nation atop its resplendent surface. As the minutes ticked away, the secretary's acute senses detected the faint but purposeful sound of footsteps drawing nearer, causing her to gracefully raise her head, her red-dark eyes alight with anticipation, to behold the commanding presence of Commander Bumi.
"How might I help you, Commander Bumi?" The secretary questioned respectfully, looking up from her desk to Bumi, who straightened up slightly.
"I'm here to see Lord Zuko. I have something important to discuss with him," Bumi answered with courtesy, keeping the face of a fearless commander.
"Lord Zuko and Lady Izumi are in a meeting with the Council. If you want, you can wait here until it's over," the secretary answered before motioning for Bumi to sit in one of the comfortable chairs on the side. Bumi sighed wearily, knowing this could take time, but he decided that he could wait if it meant his nephew surviving his trial.
Perched comfortably upon the weathered wooden chair, Bumi reclined, his arms folded tightly across his chest, while his right leg casually found solace upon his left. Amidst the air buzzing with animated chatter emanating from the nearby throne room, Bumi's acute ears caught snippets of conversation from the people within. Fully aware that he would need to exercise patience for an indefinite period, Fixing his gaze upon the ornate window, Bumi's eyes followed the graceful flight of the birds, their vibrant feathers and melodious songs serving as a soothing respite from the courtly affairs that awaited him.
.
.
As the clock ticked away, the anticipation grew with each passing moment during the agonizing three hours of waiting. Finally, with a creaking sound, the heavy doors swung open, revealing a grand entrance. Bumi, whose patience had been tested to its limits, rose from his seat just as the distinguished figures of the Fire Nation emerged from the opulent throne room. Their garments exuded wealth and power, speaking volumes about their status. Among them were aged individuals who once held positions of authority, now gracefully navigating the retirement path. As the last of them departed, Bumi's attention shifted to the secretary gracefully gliding through the entrance. With a shrewd gaze, he deduced that she must have been on her way to inform Lord Zuko of his long-awaited arrival.
A minute later, the secretary opened the door to the throne room, her eyes looking at Bumi. "You can meet Lord Zuko," she informed him, opening the door wide for him to enter.
With a sigh of relief escaping his lips, Bumi's tired eyes fluttered open, his body shifting uncomfortably as he felt the lingering ache in his backside, a testament to the enduring three-hour session of sitting. Massaging his tense shoulders in an attempt to alleviate the stiffness, he mustered the strength to approach the imposing door that stood before him. With a firm grip on the ornate handle, he exerted a gentle pull, revealing the grandeur of the double doors swinging open, inviting him into the opulent expanse of the throne room.
In the heart of the castle, where power and authority converge, lies the awe-inspiring throne room. Its grandeur is immediately evident as one steps through the colossal doors, beholding a sight that commands respect and reverence.
Towering before the eyes are numerous obsidian pillars, their jet-black surfaces contrasting with the opulent gold bases that symbolize the Fire Lord's dominion. These pillars, meticulously crafted with intricate designs, serve as stalwart guardians, bearing the weight of the lofty ceiling that crowns the chamber.
Beneath one's feet, the floor reveals a mesmerizing arrangement of smooth black tiles, their gleaming surface mirroring the magnificence above. The precision with which these tiles were placed speaks of the meticulousness with which every detail was attended to in the creation of this regal space.
Yet, it is the wall behind the commanding seat of the Fire Lord that truly captivates and enthralls. Here, a colossal bas-relief image of a dragon, fierce and indomitable, is etched into the stone, its fiery breath frozen in time for eternity. The intricacy of this artwork, painstakingly carved by the skilled hands of artisans, depicts the embodiment of power and strength, serving as a constant reminder of the Fire Lord's might.
As Bumi took confident strides forward, his eyes scanned the grand chamber to find Lord Zuko regally seated upon the throne. Despite the weight of his old age, Zuko exuded an aura of unwavering strength, as if time had only sharpened his warrior spirit.
With a surge of reverence pulsating through his veins, Bumi approached the throne, his footsteps echoing in the hallowed space. Standing tall and resolute, he bowed his head in a gesture of profound respect, a humble tribute to the indomitable ruler before him.
As the words escaped his lips, carried by a mixture of awe and admiration, Bumi's voice resonated through the chamber, infusing it with a palpable sense of honor. "It's an honor meeting you again, Lord Zuko," he uttered, his head still inclined in deference, his heart brimming with genuine reverence for the formidable leader in his presence.
"Trust me; The Honor is All MINE!" Zuko said with a friendly smile, quickly motioning for Bumi to stand up; Zuko didn't want to see his friend's son bowing to him.
"I will take a guess and say that you are here because of Naruto?" Zuko questioned, but more like stating the truth, a part of him still couldn't believe the news he was hearing. Apparently, the kid almost destroyed Republic City in his rage, only stopped by Korra when she used her Avatar State. Zuko wondered what could have caused it. He had met Naruto before, and in his eyes, Naruto looked like a good kid, perhaps too good.
"Nothing for now. Naruto has shown nothing to indicate that he's a danger, but I'm just telling you to keep an eye on him if anything unusual happens." Zuko remembered Aang's warning about Naruto many years ago. It seemed his friend had been right once again.
Zuko wasn't sure where he stood with this situation. On one side, he wanted to protect the grandson of his best friend, but on the other, his duty as Fire Lord forced him to think about the world's safety. Was it right to protect him, someone who could be dangerous to the world? Zuko didn't know the answer, and in times like this, he wished either Aang or his uncle were still among the Living.
"Yes, Lord Zuko. This is about Naruto," Bumi confirmed. He knew there was no point in dancing around the bush.
"Quite unfortunate, I heard... disturbing news. Every newspaper talks about Naruto and what he did in the Republic City." Zuko spoke with a hint of sadness in his thoughtful look before his golden eyes settled on Bumi once again.
"In the meeting I held, all of them were talking about Naruto. Some were saying we should stay out of this trial, some saying we should support the decision to kill Naruto on the spot," Zuko informed Bumi with a grave voice. The latter forced himself not visibly to frown at the words he was hearing.
"I figured," Bumi murmured under his breath, but Zuko heard him. With a sense of urgency in his voice, Bumi leaned forward and addressed Zuko directly, his eyes filled with determination. "I want your good word for Naruto during the trial," he earnestly requested, his voice resonating with a mix of respect and admiration. As the words left his lips, Bumi's voice took on a slightly higher pitch, revealing his unwavering conviction in Naruto's capabilities. Meanwhile, Zuko, deep in thought, brought his hand to rest beneath his chin, his face a canvas of contemplation as he weighed the weighty request before him.
"Tell me, Bumi, what exactly happened with Naruto?" Zuko asked; Bumi took a deep breath before telling Zuko about what happened in Republic City.
How Naruto had lost control after Asami Sato received a heavy injury from Tarrlok, how Naruto had attacked everyone around him, how Korra had been able to keep Naruto at bay with her bending, how she had been able to easily win the fight once she started using the Avatar State.
Once Bumi finished his explanation, he looked directly at Lord Zuko, who had an uncertain look on his face, his golden eyes looking directly at Bumi's brown eyes as if he could tell whenever Bumi was telling the truth.
In the throne room, a profound stillness settled like a velvet curtain, enveloping the space in hushed reverence. The air hung heavy with anticipation, allowing only the gentle crackle of flames dancing upon the torches lining the regal walls to permeate the silence. Zuko, his chest rising and falling with the weight of his emotions.
With a deliberate exhalation, he summoned the courage to break the spellbinding quietude that had befallen them all. "I see," he uttered softly, his voice carrying both acceptance and contemplation. As his gaze locked once more with Bumi, his golden eyes shimmered with a glint of curiosity.
"I'm happy to see how much Naruto means to all of you." Zuko expressed sincerely. The flickering flames in the grand hall danced in unison with his compassionate words, casting enchanting shadows on the ornate tapestries adorning the walls. Feeling a surge of determination, the Fire Lord gracefully rose from his imposing throne, every step resonating with purpose and resolve. The soft echo of his footfalls reverberated through the opulent chamber as he descended the grand staircase. Finally, he reached the same level as Bumi, their eyes meeting in a moment of shared understanding and mutual respect.
"The council would wanted from me not to make a decision yet, but Aang was a good friend, and his family will always be mine as well. The Fire Nation will stand with Naruto," Zuko confirmed, with a smile on his old face; Bumi's countenance lit up with gratitude, visibly releasing the weight of uncertainty from his shoulders. At that moment, it felt as though the air itself became lighter, granting me a sense of ease. Still, a lingering flicker of doubt remained within Zuko, silently yearning for reassurance that his choice was indeed the right one.
Aang, you entrusted me with the future of this world until the next Avatar becomes as good as you. I hope I'm making the right decision, my friend, Zuko thought with a sudden look of melancholy on his face, hoping his decision was the right one to make for the good of all.
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