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Chapter Text

Fire Lord Returns from Earth Kingdom! [Caldera Chronicle]

By An Yu, 5-24-103

Welcome back, Fire Lord! 

We at the Caldera Chronicle are pleased to announce Lord Zuko’s triumphant return from the seventh official Quadnation Summit! In spite of an unexpected delay, the palace reports that his majesty arrived safely in the late hours of the night, resulting in the unfortunate lack of fanfare. Regardless, his majesty and his cabinet have secured deals on many of the Fire Nation’s goals, as Lord Zuko reported in an admittedly confusing and likely sleep-deprived announcement given this morning. Foremost among these updates is the eagerly awaited confirmation of the new border between Earth Kingdom land and Fire Nation colonies…

Dear Uncle,

Happy to say arrived in the Fire Nation with no!! major incidents. Hhooray! Still in discussion with Min. Agr. and Min. Def. on farmland—I settled this ages and ages ago w/ Earth King Earth Kingdom King in conference Specifically On This Issue they continue to argue forever with me like the conclusion we I reached is irrelevant. I will punch someone. Have they not heard of cooperation ever?? They act like we’re in year 103 of 100 year war honestly you’d think Earth Kingdom was barely even a government from the way they talk like they can’t farm or own THEIR LAND I am so many dying. Was I this bad

Mai and Suki I love them they are taking this letter back for me and you need to read Sokka’s instructionns about how to reply because Sokka he is so great he has come up with a new faster and faster way to send letters. It is hawks! Not the hawks we have now however it is a new way to use the hawks. I was not listening! With the way discussion is going in meetings I will have to go back to Earth Kingdom King again to finalize agreements there in person just to get it through my ministers Agr. and Def. stupid dumb idiot baby heads that we are not using Earth Kingdom land that we just gave back in peace negotiations. See you then. I am doing such a good job of being normal

Hope you are doing so well!! Love you much dear regards,

Zokuu

P.S. This is Suki. From the disorganized state of this letter, I expect by now you’ve figured out something has happened. In fact, I thought you’d like to know our ship was attacked by pirates not once, not twice, but three times on distinct occasions during our trip. Everyone’s fine, but during the scuffle your nephew was lightly stabbed and is currently on a number of numbing tonics. We are all very impressed with him. 

Beloved Zokuu,

I was delighted to receive your elegantly composed letter and even more delighted to hear you have reached Fire Nation soil in safety and good health, with absolutely no attacks of any sort along the way. (You know how your uncle worries.) 

My well wishes to your cabinet and ambassadors. My sincerest salutations to the Water Tribe Ambassador in particular, who I couldn’t help but notice must have faulty luggage. The jars of natto the Minister of Finance so graciously gifted him fell out of his bags and landed in the back of his closet. I have arranged for them to be shipped to his Fire Nation rooms at premium rates, along with an extra packet of fire flakes, which I know the Ambassador so greatly enjoys. I trust my dear nephew to ensure their successful arrival. I’d be devastated to hear they were tragically lost in transit or otherwise damaged, as they have been the last few times this incident has occurred. 

I am sure you are eager to hear reports of the Jasmine Dragon. In fact, I have recently heard the most curious things from Da Li (as I am sure you recall, Da Li is the owner of Oasis Apartments). She reports not a break- in , but a mysterious break -out . Late in the night, some of her tenants sighted a masked figure climbing out of one of the apartment windows and leaping into the night. The next day, the occupant of this apartment was nowhere to be seen. 

My tea servers are distraught; this occupant unfortunately happens to be Li, well loved by all for his endearing honesty, deep passion for tea, and remarkable tendency to only show up to work when the Fire Nation royal retinue is in town. 

I cannot lie and say I myself am not touched by the news. Young Li is dear to my heart and a hard worker, but I am consoling myself with the knowledge that he does have a habit of disappearing. I find I can even time when to send these letters by the days he misses work, he is so fantastically keyed into the goings-on of your cabinet—I have twice now thought of warning you of what may be a horrific security leak! Though I am frankly at a loss to where Li has gone now, I am certain it has not been to the dastardly kidnappings of this frightening Blue Spirit (as the servers have taken to calling him based on the play mask Da Li sighted). 

I am sure you are similarly emotional to hear of Li’s disappearance. I know you are much more familiar with Li than I am from your many hauntings of our tea shop; perhaps you may have a clue to his location?

My sincerest regards,

Uncle

Zuko,

FN refugees kidnappings in BSS. Looking into it. Mai wrote this.

Toph

To the esteemed and honorable Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar Bridge Between Worlds, 

From the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, Owner of the Winner of the Best Bear in Ba Sing Se award three years running,

Greetings. 

We are sure the Fire Nation has by now heard the tragic news regarding a spree of disappearances among the Fire Nation refugees who chose to remain in the Earth Kingdom. We cannot impress on the Fire Lord enough the solemnity with which the Earth Kingdom is handling the situation and the empathy the Earth Kingdom has for those who have vanished and their loved ones. 

The Fire Nation will be pleased to hear the Earth Kingdom has leads on the perpetrator of this dreadful crime and are pursuing them as its top priority.

Sincerest respect,

Kuei , King of the Earth Kingdom

P.S. My advisors didn’t want me to write this—didn’t want me to write anything at all really, as they think we can handle this without you knowing—but I felt I should warn you that one of the victims is a Jasmine Dragon tea server. It may be that the attacker, this Blue Spirit as you have surely heard by now, has had his eyes on your uncle from the beginning and was merely testing the so-called waters thus far. If you feel the need to increase Fire Nation guard around the Jasmine Dragon in response, I give you full permission. Rest assured however that we are taking this matter seriously and will not rest until we have the Blue Spirit in custody. 

Dear Uncle,

Just got out of sick bay. What’s happening?

Regards,

Zuko

Chapter Text

Fire Nation Refugees Kidnapped in Earth Kingdom Hate Crime [Caldera Flame]

By Lian He, 6-24-103

Tragedy struck in Ba Sing Se, Hu Xin Provinces

All across the Earth Kingdom, whispers have cropped up… insidious figures striking terror across the colonies, from the bustling city of Ba Sing Se, to the lowliest village port on the Earth Kingdom coast. The victims? Fire Nation refugees, living innocent lives away from the pain and violence of the war front, settled into their homes in peace and now viciously snatched from those homes in the dead of night.

The perpetrators of this horrific spree of disappearances are still unknown and at large. Earth Kingdom officials have been suspiciously silent on the matter. Instead, they spend all their time advertising the start of the Earth Nation Citizen program, which will accept all Fire Nation refugees into Earth Kingdom jurisdiction as just as much a citizen as any other Earth Kingdom resident. Does the Earth King think this measly show of tolerance is enough to dissuade those villains kidnapping traumatized civilians? Or will it only provoke such rapscallions further?

Indeed, dear reader, this reporter believes it to be the latter. The only purpose imaginable for targeting as inofffensive a subject as the blameless refugee would be to drive them out of the Earth Kingdom entirely, the only reason to irradicate the Fire Nation premise in Earth Kingdom grounds so fully that even an irreproachable figure is unwelcome. And what does the Earth King do in response to the delinquents? Antagonize them further!

Truly, reader, this reporter must wonder if the Earth Kingdom is a safe refuge for the Fire Nation refugees at all. Or does the loathing reach even the crown of the Earth Kingdom itself?

We at the Caldera Flame eagerly await the results…

To the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King,

From the Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, the Fire Lord,

Salutations.

The Fire Nation is pleased to hear of the attention the Earth Kingdom has dedicated towards resolving the disappearances of Fire Nation refugees in Ba Sing Se. The Blue Spirit is familiar to the Fire Nation and is currently in Fire Nation custody. The Fire Nation appreciates the care and consideration the Earth Kingdom has had in these times and looks forward to the next official summit to discuss further policies regarding Earth Kingdom citizenship for former Fire Nation refugees.

Respectfully,

Fire Lord 

Zuko

Zuko,

Just heard the news. HAH.

Sokka.

Sokka,

This isn’t funny.

Zuko

It’s a bit funny. 

Sokka.

To the esteemed and honorable Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

From the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, Owner of the Winner of the Best Bear in Ba Sing Se award three years running and Owner of the Winner of the Fanciest Bear in Omashu award,

Greetings. 

The Earth Kingdom is pleased to hear the Blue Spirit, hereafter Prisoner 1, has been successfully taken into Fire Nation custody. Given that Fire Nation refugees, the primary victims of his attacks, are defined under recently established Earth Kingdom law as full Earth Kingdom citizens with the corresponding rights, the Earth Kingdom considers Prisoner 1 as under its jurisdiction. It hopes the Fire Nation will be amenable to begin arrangements for the transference of Prisoner 1 into Earth Kingdom custody posthaste. 

Sincerest regards,

Kuei , King of the Earth kingdom

To the esteemed and honorable Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, his majesty, Student of Dragons and Defeater of the Xanshu Rebellion, Great Ruler of the Fire Lands, 

From the Office of Agricultural Ministry,

Sir. 

We are ecstatic to hear of His Majesty’s successful return to the Fire Nation and his subsequent good health. Our nation is truly a powerful and mighty nation under his divine reign! 

We eagerly await news of His Majesty’s grand decision on the jurisdiction over the arable land from Gaoling to Chameleon Bay. We respectfully direct his attention to the informational packets of history and agricultural theory attached to this message in case His Majestic Honorableness requires additional context. 

Greatest considerations,

Yong Lian,

Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Fire Nation Office of Agricultural Ministeries

Suki,

I need you to go to Ba Sing Se to help Mai and Toph on an investigative mission re: disappearing Fire Nation refugees. Tell absolutely nobody. Mai can explain. Don’t laugh. 

Zuko.

Zuko,

Okay? But Mai better have a good reason for not requesting Earth Kingdom aid. Only Ba Sing Se or should I contact other cities? Actually, scratch that, Mai will tell me. 

Suki.

P.S. you can’t ask me not to laugh. It’s unfair.

Zuko,

Followup from Ba Sing Se. ?? How did you manage this??? This is just like you. And how could you kill off Li, you jerk? The Jasmine Dragon is in mourning! They have a whole shrine dedicated to you!

Will send updates. Toph wants me to tell you this is the best thing you’ve ever done and she approves wholeheartedly. More specifically, she says, “yeah Zuko, really show ‘em who’s boss!” I think she thinks you did this on purpose as a power move.

Suki

Mai,

I’m dying. I’m dead. I can never go back to Ba Sing Se again. Please arrange my funeral.

Zuko

Do it yourself.

Mai

P.S. in EK w/ Suki. EK has extra charges on Blue Spirit they want to press, really want Blue Spirit in their custody. Some nobles hold a grudge (Something about robbery? What did you do?) and don’t trust FN to press necessary charges. Otherwise, EK wants to prove good faith to FN as its worried FN will restart war using refugees as reserve forces and the “attack on Iroh” as an excuse or something like that. Will be hard to say Blue Spirit died in transit or in custody w/o raising suspicion, but EK is incredibly persistent on trying Blue Spirit in their own judicial system. 

No known leads or suspects (other than you) as of yet. Full report later. 

Fire Lord,

I am writing this as a distressed acquaintance, not a king. I humbly ask you to forgive the informality. 

Consider our request to transfer the Blue Spirit into Earth Kingdom custody. As I’m sure you are aware, the Blue Spirit’s most recent victim and cause for his capture was a tea server at your Uncle’s tea house, the Jasmine Dragon. As you may not be aware, I happen to be rather fond of this tea house myself and have been witness to such distress as my heart could never stand in response to Li’s tragic disappearance. 

I have been truly touched by this display of care and promised your Uncle to try the perpetrator under all the strength of the Earth Kingdom judiciary. I am sure you understand that I cannot retract my promise. I myself have had multiple interactions with the victim and found him a sincere and good-hearted person who truly did not deserve the fate that befell him. If not for your Uncle, do it for Li? And if not for Li, for me, whom I hope you consider if not a friendly acquaintance, an earnest ally in the stressful opera of international politics. 

My greatest thanks,

Kuei , 

Yong Lian,

To the Office of Agricultural Ministries,

Are you serious? Are you an idiot? Do you seriously think we can just use Earth Kingdom lands without their permission? I am going to challenge you to an Agni Kai just to punch you in the faceI swear to Agni himself

What is your plan supposed to be? What’s your end goal here? We don’t need more farms?   

How many titles did you make up for this

Condescending ‘informational packet’ what are you trying to prove?  

How’d you get the minister of defense on your side anyway you jaundiced frog did you bribe him i bet you bribed him

Did you seriously include a section on Fire Nation agricultural superiority in here?? Did you literally justify your mindlessly risky overtaking of foreign lands by saying the Earth Kingdom is too incompetent to take care of them properly? Their own lands? Are you hearing yourself?

Respectfully, no.

Zuko

Ruler of the Fire Lands

Zuko, what did you just send to Yong Lian? The Minister of Defense reports an awful racket from his office and I don’t want to have to replace the decor in there a third time because of you. Do I need to have Zhong Zhong go over letter etiquette with you again? 

From the desk of Mei Li, Head Assistant to the Fire Lord

To the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, 

From the Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

Prisoner 1 has incurred multiple charges against the Fire Nation. Thus, the Fire Nation must insist that Prisoner 1 first be tried under Fire Nation law. If found guilty, Prisoner 1 will serve his sentence in Fire Nation custody. Only afterwards will the Fire Nation permit his removal from the Fire Nation in order to be tried under Earth Kingdom law. The Fire Nation is regretful of this hindrance to Earth Kingdom proceedings and is open to negotiation towards a compromise. 

Respectfully,

Fire Lord

Zuko

Earth King,

Just sent a denial of your request for transference which makes this a little awkward but 

Very sorry to hear of your distress. Unfortunately, the Blue Spirit happens to have committed treason multiple times during the Great War that our ministers refuse to let slide. You, and the Jasmine Dragon (which I had not heard has been in mourning—would you be willing to provide more details on this, such as a recounting of your conversation with my uncle?), will be happy to hear that Li is alive and in the Fire Nation. The Blue Spirit was caught halfway here by a military outpost and the soldiers found Li along with him. I will judge his trial personally to ensure proper judicial procedure. No need to worry. 

Zuko .

So like, I’m not saying that you’re a bad liar or anything but I caught what you were planning on sending the earth king and I mean, all good, but also, you know. The Blue Spirit was caught leaving out Li’s window? And I know nobody found Li’s body and all so this is entirely plausible, but just out of curiosity, how’d the Blue Spirit get Li out of the window? Surely Da Li would have seen that too?

Sokka

He went back once Da Li had left. 

Zuko

The Blue Spirit broke into Li’s window, knocked him out (?), left in time for Da Li to see him, then went back to get Li? That seems like a lot of steps. Why did he leave? Why didn’t he just take Li the first time and go?

Li was too heavy. He needed to get his friend to help.

Who’s his friend?

The Red Spirit.

You’re kidding me.

To the esteemed and honorable Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

From the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, Owner of the Winner of the Best Bear in Ba Sing Se award three years running and Owner of the Winner of the Fanciest Bear in Omashu award, recent Owner of the Winner of the Most Magnificent Mammal in Omashu award (!!),

The Earth Kingdom would be open to Prisoner 1 remaining in Fire Nation custody as long as 1) his charges include those decided by the Earth Kingdom, 2) his trial is supervised by an official chosen by the Earth Kingdom, and 3) the full transcript of the proceedings are sent to the Earth Kingdom for review. 

Sincerest regards,

Kuei, King of the Earth Kingdom

Mai,

How do you forge trial minutes? Asking for a friend.

Zuko

Chapter Text

The Jasmine Dragon invites

FIRE LORD ZUKO

To attend

THE MEMORIAL OF LI,

Hardworking tea server, loving nephew, son, brother, and neighbor. A truly honest and passionate young man, taken too soon from this world.

84 AG-103 AG

[Note written on the back of the previous invitation]

Dearest Zuko.

I believe the date coincides nicely with that of your next visit to the Earth Kingdom. I do understand that you may be too busy juggling the myriad duties of a young Fire Lord to attend, but it would truly lift this old man’s spirits to see your face in these times of tragedy. 

I hope you are well,

Your loving uncle.

Uncle,

Why?

Zuko

Zuko,

Every employee is valued and loved at the Jasmine Dragon, nephew. 

Your caring, concerned, and very elderly uncle.

Zuko,

You said you’d judge the trial yourself? You realize you’ll be playing the judge, accused, and defendant, right? How will you manage that with an Earth Kingdom supervisor attending? 

You better have a plan. You’re not ruining a year and a half of peace talks just because you can’t keep your aliases straight, hilarious though it is. Katara would literally kill you. Update enclosed.

Suki

Zuko if you ruin a year and a half of peace talks because you’re too scared to tell Zhong Zhao that you broke into his prison once to save the literal Avatar then I will literally kill you. 

Hope you’re doing well, visit soon!

Katara

To the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King,

From the Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

The Fire Nation is grateful to the Earth Kingdom for its gracious understanding. We have a few concerns regarding the security of an unvetted Earth Kingdom retinue on Fire Nation soil. However, if the Earth Kingdom insists, the Fire Nation will concede to opening talks towards the selection of a mutually agreed-upon supervisor and security team to enter Fire Nation borders and oversee the trial of Prisoner 1. 

Respectfully,

Fire Lord

Zuko

The reason you have to add ‘Respectfully’ to your signature is because if you didn’t everyone would just assume you were trying to start a fight all the time. Would it kill you to be more polite? 

Sokka.

Nobody asked you, Sokka.

Zuko.

Nobody needed to, I could hear the despairing cries of Sokka! I got in over my head and I desperately need your help! from the ambassador’s wing. So have you come up with an alibi for the Blue Spirit yet, or is he guilty? Because if he comes out of this guilty I’m losing a lot of money.

Sokka.

I’m figuring it out.

Ohhhh, he’s “figuring it out.” I’m filled with confidence.

To the esteemed Fire Lord, our great emperor,

From the Office of the Ministry of Defense,

Greetings. The Ministry of Defense would like to reiterate its concerns over the allowance of any non-Fire Nation retinue upon Fire Nation soil in this time of trouble, mutually-agreed upon or otherwise. The murders of the Fire Nation refugees in the Earth Kingdom constitute a distressing turn in public opinion towards the Fire Nation since the post-war elation has ended. If His Majesty would only condescend for a short meeting before council tomorrow, the Ministry would be entirely grateful.

Regards,

Xuemei, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of the Ministry of Defense

To the esteemed and honorable Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

From the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, Owner of the Winner of the Best Bear in Ba Sing Se award three years running and Owner of the Winner of the Fanciest Bear in Omashu, recent Owner of the Winner of the Most Magnificent Mammal in Omashu and Gaoling,

The Earth Kingdom would be amenable to the selection of a supervisor, granted its other two requests of the addition of charges against the Earth Kingdom and access to a full trial transcript are met. In particular, the Earth Kingdom would like to nominate the selection of a qualified supervisor from the Water Tribe as an objective third party. To expedite the judicial process in consideration of the emotional tumult resulting from Prisoner 1, we nominate Water Tribe Ambassador Sokka, who we find familiar with both the Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation due to extensive time spent in service of and personal friendship with members of both countries.

Sincerest regards,

Kuei, King of the Earth Kingdom

Xuemei,

Enclosed is copy of a notice received this morning from the Earth Kingdom. Do we still have to meet today? I have things to do.

Respectfully,

Fire Lord Zuko.

To the esteemed Fire Lord, our emperor,

From the Office of the Ministry of Defense,

Fine.

Xuemei, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of the Ministry of Defense

Sokka,

Thank Agni for small blessings. Are you okay with this?

Zuko

This is the best day of my life.

Well, you don’t have to gloat…

To the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King,

From the Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

The election of Ambassador Sokka to supervise the trial is amenable to the Fire Nation. The trial will proceed with expediency.

Regards,

Fire Lord

Zuko

[Partially ripped message with no name, arrived on Fire Lord’s desk only after extensive handling from Fire Lord’s personal retinue, defense team, attendants, and bodyguards. In their defense, it’s just so suspicious-looking.]

Zuko,

Found evidence that the other kidnappings are from what must be copy-cat freedom fighters inspired by Jet. However, it isn’t adding up. Some evidence appear forged. No true freedom fighters actually seem involved, and this doesn’t match their MO. You were familiar with them once, yes? Can you confirm these are not original? We’ve reached out to Katara and Aang also. See attached sketch.

Mai and Toph agree that there is more to the story. We are staying to investigate further. Consider that if these freedom fighters (whoever they are) are not the true culprits, then who planted them?

Suki

Suki,

They would have stopped him if he tried it. It’s not him them.

Zuko

P.S. from Sokka—Plus, that doesn’t look like him at all. What are those, crowbars? Fairly certain he’s dead as well.

Zuko (and Sokka),

Thanks for confirming. Katara and Aang said the same. 

Suki

To the noble and greatly honorable Fire Lord, Wondrous Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, his majesty, Student of Dragons and Defeater of the Xanshu Rebellion, Great Ruler of the Fire Lands, Lord of All that is Bright and Glorious, Agni’s Hands on Earth,

From the Office of Agricultural Ministries,

A many awe-filled greetings to our Fire Lord! We are delighted to hear of the capture and imprisonment of the Blue Spirit, a true scourge of our world. Now that the Fire Nation has found the culprit for the heinous and hate-filled crime against our Earth Kingdom expats, we all may rest easier and with our faith in the inevitable hand of justice restored. 

(On a personal level, as a passionate theater-goer, this minister has always harbored a grudge against this Blue Spirit for his mockery of the original Princess Kemimoto character from which his name derives.)

We whole-heartedly follow His Majesty’s divine and ever-noble commands. However, we humbly prostrate ourselves to ask why His Majesty has elected to send an investigation team into the Earth Kingdom. Has not the horrid perpetuator of this crime already been seized into Fire Nation custody? Have not the source and evidence of this crime been brought to His Majesty’s grand and all-revealing light? We are befuddled in our inferiority and beseech His Majesty to make his reasoning known. 

We respectfully direct His Majesty’s great and many-divided attention to the forms and datums of the Ministry of Finance, who have calculated the expenses of the typical foreign investigation, against the expenses required to settle the Fire Lord’s proposal of land agreements, that being the arable land from Gaoling to Chameleon Bay. Our previous missives and the Fire Lord’s curt reply are attached likewise.

Greatest humility for His Majesty’s considerations,

Yong Lian,

Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Fire Nation Office of Agricultural Ministeries

To the Office of our Great Fire Lord, 

From the Office of the Ministry of Finance,

We have nothing to do with this and beg Yong Lian to not involve us in his petty disputes. Exasperated with our coworkers,

Fumi Amamiya, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of Finance

P.S. Yu Dao land report progressing slower than expected, despite Ambassador Sokka’s great help. Will discuss in council tomorrow.

To the esteemed Fire Lord, our great emperor,

From the Office of the Ministry of Defense,

It has come to our attention that His Majesty has allowed and funded Toph Beifong’s illicit investigations into the recent kidnappings of Fire Nation refugees in Ba Sing Se. Our ministry would like to express its respectful reservations over this choice. Has His Majesty considered the potential bias present in sending an Earth Kingdom citizen of Gaoling to head the investigation of the disappearances of Fire Nation citizens in Earth Kingdom land? We are uncertain of the validity of any claims that result from this investigation, in our own functionings or in legal court. 

Furthermore, we are wary of the jurisdiction of sending an investigative team into Earth Kingdom land without the express permission of the Earth Kingdom security council or defensive cabinet. Our relationship with the Earth Kingdom is young and tenuous. Let us not play fire at the edges of the Earth Kingdom’s shortened wick. 

Regards,

Xuemei, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of the Ministry of Defense

Xuemei,

That is so contradictory you mean the team is both biased in favor of the Earth Kingdom and a threat to them how would that even happen what are you talking about

So we’re meeting today, then?

Fire Lord Zuko

To the esteemed Fire Lord, our great emperor,

From the Office of the Ministry of Defense,

Yes, we are meeting today.

Xuemei

Chapter Text

[A collection of headlines from the last few days left on the Fire Lord’s desk, along with a collection of seemingly personal correspondence.]

Criminal Responsible For Fire Nation Hate Crime Apprehended [The Caldera Flame]

By Lian He, 6-25-103

Potential Perpetrator Of Refugee Kidnappings in Earth Kingdom in Custody [The Caldera Chronicle]

By An Yu, 6-25-103

Definite And For-Sure Hideous Crime-Spewing Masked Man Arrested On Arrival (True Story!) [The Caldera Flame]

By Lian He, 6-26-103

Inciting and Igniting: How Misleading Headlines Can Inflame a Population and Lead to Misinformed Conclusions, A Review [The Caldera Chronicle]

By An Yu, 6-26-103

Look at Those Long Titles! Who Will Read All That? A “Review” [The Caldera Flame]

By Lian He, 6-27-103

[A note sent to the Caldera Flame Editorial Office, 6-27-103]

You are above this, Lian He. 

—An Yu

[A note written on the back of the previous note, sent to the Caldera Chronicle Editorial Office, 6-27-103]

:( :( So we’re not getting dinner then?

[A note written in sideways ink in corner of previous note, sent to Caldera Flame Editorial Office, 6-27-103]

Shut up. 

—An Yu

[Note immediately following previous, sent to Caldera Flame Editorial, etc.]

7:30.

—An Yu

(And don’t wear the stupid overcoat, you look like a dork.)

[Responding note, sent to the Caldera Chronicle, etc., etc.]

:)

Guanyu,

Why would you send me this? Who are these people? Did you steal these from them?

Fire Lord Zuko

Fire Lord,

Meant to send to Zhong Zhong. My bad. 

Guanyu , Head of Royal Security

Guanyu,

What???

Zuko

Fire Lord,

Could have been a security risk. Had to check it out. 

Guanyu , Head of Royal Security

To the esteemed and honorable Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

From the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, Owner of the Winner of the Best Bear in Ba Sing Se award four years running, Owner of the Winner of the Fanciest Bear in Omashu, and Owner of the Winner of the Most Magnificent Mammal from Omashu to Gaoling,

The Earth Kingdom would like to politely remind the Fire Nation of the request for access to the trial transcript of Prisoner 1, which the Fire Nation agreed to provide in its earlier missives. Due to the political turmoil resulting from Prisoner 1’s accused crimes, the Earth Kingdom feels this trial is urgent and should pose a high priority in the Fire Nation’s functionings.

Regards,

Kuei, King of the Earth Kingdom

Attached note:

Fire Lord,

Once again I must ask you to pardon the informality. Your uncle is in distress. 

I have taken to attending a weekly tea at the Jasmine Dragon, as it is one of the few tea houses within range of the palace of any sincere quality, and the last conversation I had with him, he was in such despair he could hardly express a full sentence without breaking into convulsions. The tea server Li had such impact on the life of the Jasmine Dragon as I cannot express in words. Your uncle begs me to use all my authority to exert justice on the perpetrators, and as of yet our only lead remains the Blue Spirit. 

I believe in your belief of his innocence just as I believe in your report of Li’s survival. However, I cannot persuade my cabinet to move on from the Blue Spirit until we have proof of his innocence. As much as I can plead you, move in haste.

My greatest humility and thanks,

Kuei

Earth King

[Excerpt from private meeting between Fire Lord Zuko (FL.Z), Minister of Defense Xuemei (M.DEF), Minister of Agriculture Yong Lian (M.AGR), and Minister of Finance Fumi Amamiya (M.FIN), 6-27-103, 1317.5°-1321.7°]

M.DEF: It is a security risk.

FL.Z: You sound like Guanyu. If you refuse to trust Toph or Suki, can’t you trust Mai to be… I don’t know, tactful?

M.DEF: Our office has our reservations over Lady Mai’s ability to restrain Lady Beifong or the Kyoshi Warrior, given her inability to successfully do so in the past.

FL.Z: You mean when Azula ordered her to.

M.FIN: Why am I here? I don’t want to be here.

M.AGR: Maybe if His Majesty could elaborate on his reasoning before we leap to conclusions. His Majesty has to admit it’s baffling. We have already apprehended the culprit! Any more investigation is a waste of resources, or so it so humbly appears to our office. 

FL.Z: I already told you, and Kuei, that the Blue Spirit is innocent. I interrogated him myself, and Li backed up the story.

M.AGR: Li…?

M.DEF: The victim. 

M.FIN: I really don’t see why my presence is needed right now. 

M.DEF: The Ministry of Defense would remind His Majesty that the Blue Spirit has not been proven innocent in court. Regardless, does the investigation team have any other suspicions? Our office has already expressed our wariness over the presence of the team on Earth Kingdom land. Have they at least recovered a lead?

FL.Z: Yeah... Do any of you remember the Freedom Fighters?

(Overlapping) M.DEF: Yes, Majesty, as it happens, I do remember the rebels that smuggled illegal explosives into a key colony and destroyed integral agricultural infrastructure. That is something I do actually recall very well.

(Overlapping) M.AGR: What? No, should I? 

FL.Z: It’s them. We think.

M.DEF: But they’re dead. 

M.AGR: Oh, it isn’t zombies, is it, Honorable Majesty? Well regardless, our office does not see how the presence of zombies would prevent the acquisition of the arable land from Gaoling to Chameleon Bay, and we humbly, really do beg our lord to reconsider—

M.FIN: Seriously Lord, if you’re trying to make a point asking me here then you can just say it next time. 

FL.Z: I didn’t invite you. Who invited you?

(Pause lasting from 1319.4°-1320.8°. Transcriber’s note: it’s awkward.)

M.AGR: Oh, so now I can’t bring moral support?

M.DEF: Your Majesty, just let me see the reports myself. 

Guanyu,

So Yong Lian was acting shady in that last meeting, right?

Zuko

Fire Lord,

Oh, absolutely.

Guanyu, Head of Royal Security

[Discarded draft of response to Earth King Kuei, NOT SENT]

Earth King,

Why are you spending time with my uncle? 

I understand your feelings I GUESS

You know he’s messing with you, right

Are there literally no other tea houses in Ba Sing Se you can go to, really?? I am going to challenge you to an Agni Kai,

You are being difficult on purpose and don’t you have better things to do?

“Respectfully,”

Zuko.

Zhong Zhong before you scold me I am throwing this one away.

Sokka,

I just had to explain all of Toph’s reports to my defense minister, doodles and everything, and I still don’t understand how she even writes those things. Can you take over the trial transcripts for now? We can meet tonight to finish them if you’re free. Thanks.

Zuko

I have an outline and everything.

You wrote an outline??

I’m motivated.

Earth King,

I have written to my uncle. Thank you for your concern. The trial has already concluded and a full transcript will be sent to your office shortly. I appreciate your dedication to your citizens, natural-born and otherwise. 

Regards,

Zuko

To the esteemed Fire Lord, our great emperor,

From the Office of the Ministry of Defense,

We have reviewed the reports provided from Lady Beifong’s investigation team in Ba Sing Se. Although we appreciate the concern given to these supposed “Freedom Fighters,” of which His Majesty has discussed before, we remain apprehensive over the presence of a Fire Nation investigation in the Earth Kingdom. 

In truth, we have received information that the political state in the Earth Kingdom, particularly among the outskirts of Ba Sing Se to its eastern shores, has become increasingly turbulent. Our networks report heightened distrust of the Fire Nation since the end of the war, and the Earth Kingdom fears retaliation for the disappearances of the Fire Nation refugees. The Blue Spirit appears, as His Majesty declared, entirely innocent. However, these “Freedom Fighters” of which Lady Beifong reports are worrisome. 

The Ministry of Defense will recommend increasing military presence in the Hu Xin Provinces, South Hiatu, and Yu Dao, to prevent spontaneous strikes against the Fire Nation presence in these colonies. Full reasoning and data supporting this choice, along with the official recommendation, will be given in council tomorrow morning.

Full regards,

Xuemei, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of the Ministry of Defense

To the Office of our Great Fire Lord, 

From the Office of the Ministry of Finance,

We’re already pulling the numbers. Our gratitude for the gift of Gaipan spices; Eun-Woo was delighted you remembered her hometown.

Ever-reminding our lord to get some rest,

Fumi Amamiya, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of Finance 

Sokka,

Will be late to work on transcripts. Sorry. Dealing with Min. Def. taking all night. Will totally be there very soon. Is work with Min. Fin. going well?

Zuko

Zuko,

Yes but guess what!! Min. Agr. just requested more proof for keeping Yu Dao land, again, for the billionth time. Amamiya is helping you with Min. Def. so I’m on Min. Agr. duty. Won’t get to you for another hour or two *at least.* We can just be awake all night again. If it worked in the war!

Your best friend Sokka, who is soooo good at staying up late all the time and will be completely normal about it

The Mighty Hand of Justice is Awful Slow: The Impact of Lengthy Trials on Both Victims and Accused [The Caldera Chronicle]

By An Yu, 6-28-103

The Blue Spirit Does Not Exist! Top Ten Reasons Why This Trial Is Taking Forever [The Caldera Flame]

By Lian He, 6-28-103

Fire Lord,

I write to you in informality once again to bring you to quiet awareness of what appears to be an honest mistake. It seems the trial transcripts have been mixed up with a very well-written and engaging play meant to process uncertain or negative feelings in response to the distressing circumstances of the Ba Sing Se kidnappings, attempt on Li’s life, and arrest of the Blue Spirit.

My court would appreciate it if the correct transcripts were sent as soon as possible. Perhaps the documents were swapped, and the transcripts are with your agent while the manuscript was sent to me. To be perhaps over-truthful, such an incident happens all the time in my own cabinet.

Although I of course am not sure of your plans for this manuscript, I for one would be delighted to see the piece staged. I have enclosed the document, and, with the hopes of buffeting your work to production, I took the liberty to make some small corrections for grammar and pacing. I hope you do not mind.

Greatest regards,

Earth King Kuei

Sokka,

What in Agni’s name did we send Kuei last night?

I don’t know, I was a little more concerned with *nearly getting assassinated*???

Your BEST FRIEND Sokka, who has not been nearly assassinated since the war ended and is justified to some freaking out!

To the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King,

From the Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

Greetings. Unfortunately, the appointed supervisor Water Tribe Ambassador Sokka has had to leave abruptly due to an attack on his life. Upon the Earth Kingdom’s blessing, he will be arriving in Ba Sing Se within the month to start his term there early. The Fire Nation wishes him all the best in his future endeavors, and hopes the choice of a second supervisor will be as smooth and urgent as the former. Investigations into the source of the attack are already underway.

Respectfully,

Fire Lord

Sokka,

So what? I’m never going to be able to look the Earth King in the eyes ever again. I work with him. I’m dying right now. 

How can you say that?? It was an art piece! Kuei just has no taste. 

He left you a note in the margins: “I am forever surprised with the many exciting and novel ways you have found to spell ‘anonymity.’ Such innovation!”

How do you know that note was meant for me?

I know how to spell “anonymity,” Sokka. 

Lord Zuko,

Words can’t describe how infuriated Amb. Sokka is right now. It’s hilarious, but very loud. Please avoid angering him until after we have disembarked our metal ship and the ambassador may stomp around as heavily as he’d like. He is still recovering, you know.

Tooru, Kyoshi Warrior

[Excerpts from The Trial of the Blue Spirit]

OPEN on the FIRE NATION ROYAL COURT.

FIRE LORD ZUKO (FL.Z) is presiding as judge. PRISONER 1 (PRIS.1) is guarded by six large and capable guards. THE DEFENDANT (DEF.LI) and his lawyer WANG FIRE (DEF.LAW) are at rest. PRIS.1 represents himself. AMBASSADOR SOKKA (AMB.WT) supervises. 

FL.Z: All rise for the case of the Blue Spirit, accused of kidnapping Li, a tea server at the Jasmine Dragon in Ba Sing Se.

PRIS.1 (standing): I’m innocent, I tell you! Innocent!

FL.Z: Sit down! I’ll be the judge of that. I’m the judge. 

…

TESTIMONY: THE DEFENDANT

DEF.LI: And then the kidnappers came after me! I don’t know what they wanted from me… I’m just a naive tea server! But I was going back to my apartment after a long shift at the Jasmine Dragon, where I work, and three huge men attacked me right in my own home!

DEF.LAW: Did you see the faces of any of these men?

DEF.LI: No… they were all wearing masks. Festival masks, like chickens and horses and so on and so forth. For anonimety.

DEF.LAW: But not play masks?

DEF.LI: No, festival masks! I’m an avid fan of the theater and I would know the difference between a festival and a play mask. You can trust me on this. I’m very trustworthy and knowledgeable about stage performances.

DEF.LAW: Interesting… Go on.

DEF.LI: They came in through the window, and I was sure I was done for! But then, there was a huge crash, and somebody else came through and fought them off. I was saved! My heart was pounding… I turned, and it was him! (points at PRIS.1)

(FL.Z and AMB.WT both gasp in shocked but manly unison)

DEF.LAW: The accused? You jest, sir!

DEF.LI: I most certainly do not jest! The Blue Spirit whisked me out the window and onto the roofs, where we ran for safety. I have family in the Fire Nation, you see, and I needed to get passage onto a ship there, where they could protect me. But I had no money. The Blue Spirit, who also coincidentally has family in the Fire Nation and would be targeted by the kidnappers for rescuing me, came with me to provide the fare for both of us. 

FL.Z: What a linear and most understandable chain of events!

…

TESTIMONY: THE ACCUSED

PRIS.1: I was doing my blue, spiritish, and totally law-abiding thing on the streets of Ba Sing Se, when I heard what was very clearly a crash through a window. These three huge men were manhandling their way into an apartment. I’m a law-abiding citizen of the Fire Nation living in the Earth Kingdom for tax purposes, but I wasn’t about to let evil stand on account of some minor trespassing!

FL.Z: That makes perfect sense, and you are a just and noble Fire Nation citizen for saying so. And then what happened?

…

CROSS-EXAMINATION: THE ACCUSED

DEF.LAW: So you claim that you entered the apartment to rescue the defendant from these men… did you see any of their faces?

PRIS.1: No, they were wearing what were clearly festival masks. It could have been anyone.

DEF.LAW: And then you fled onto a ship. Which ship?

PRIS.1: The Red Spirit. We were found halfway to the Fire Nation by the Fire Lord.

FL.Z: I can attest to that!

DEF.LAW: What did you do along the way? Threaten my client? Bribe him?

PRIS.1: We mostly played Pai Sho. Li made a surprisingly enjoyable travel companion. There was no threatening or misbehavior involved, only a lovely cross-continental boat trip among friends. Pals even. Buddies. Very legal and even encourage-able. Nothing suspicious happened at all!

Zuko,

Okay, I see your point.

Chapter Text

Water Tribe Ambassador ATTACKED by Pack of TERRORIST REBELS [Caldera Ember]

By Sato Sato, 6-29-103

WHO WILL THEY BE ATTACKING NEXT?

Last night, a gang of at least twenty mysterious assassins from the Earth Kingdom broke into the Fire Nation palace and brutally assaulted the Water Tribe ambassador. Medics rushed to the scene, sighted speeding up and down Caldera City streets and violating low-level traffic laws. Since then, the ambassador has made no appearance. Is he injured? Biding his time before making a comment? Or perhaps… even dead?

The poultry defenses of our nation is sickening… if even a member of our government could be attacked, who’s next!!!!!

The group of thirty-or-so assassins hailed form the Earth Kingdom and may not have been working alone…

These papers are NO-GOOD JOURNALISM! Top ten newspapers in Caldera City, ranked by how UNRELIABLE and UTTERLY LOW-QUALITY they are [Caldera Flame]

By Lian He, 6-29-103

Is journalism in Caldera City on a downward spiral? Keep to quality and avoid these key newspapers!

1. The Caldera Ember…

Takes One to Know One: On the Recognition of Hypocrisy, A Review [Caldera Chronicle]

By An Yu, 6-29-103

To our emperor Fire Lord,

From the Department of Royal Security,

The hole in security accessed by the assassin has been patched, and an internal investigation has been launched within palace security to determine the cause of such an oversight. Unfortunately, we have been unable to capture the culprit at this time. Our sincerest apologies to Your Majesty for this failure of our staff. As Director of Royal Security, this servant takes on full responsibility on behalf of the department, and will submit to Agni Shi if his lord wills it. 

With greatest regrets,

Guanyu , Head of the Department of Royal Security

Guanyu,

Stop asking for Agni Shi. I have never willed it and I won’t ever will it and the minute my bill passes through the council it will never be willed or permitted again. I am starting to worry about you. Does Mei Li need to issue a medic recommendation?

Zuko

Fire Lord,

I just think it’s neat.

Guanyu

Guanyu,

That is not as reassuring as you seem to think it is.

Zuko

Sokka,

Just wondering here, but what actually happened with the assassin? Did you see anything?

Zuko

Zuko,

Yes, I did arrive safely in the Earth Kingdom, thank you for asking. Accommodations are pleasant and the food goes far to settle my *shaken* and *upset* soul after the horrible experience of *an attempt on my life.* Noodles for days, if anyone even cares.

Security reports will probably say a group of five but I only ever saw the one guy. He came in through the window of my room and tried to stab me in my bed, but it didn’t work because I was on the floor doing numbers for Amamiya. He was wearing some sort of scarf or blanket around his head and didn’t visibly bend anything. It was very awkward for a few moments, and then he said, “oh, wrong room,” and went back to the window. I thought that was it and so I continued trying to remember how long division worked, but then he came back and tried to stab me! It was so rude!

He seemed unfamiliar with the palace layout and must have scaled the walls. I think he was on his own. Maybe a few bribed guards but no backup. He didn’t call for anyone. I already sent my report to the Min. Def and everyone. 

Also who’s replacing me as supervisor?

Sokka,

Thanks and we don’t know yet. I’ll keep you updated.

Zuko,

You’d better. I have a lot of money riding on this.

Sokka,

You’ve told me before. So encouraging.

A lot.

Thanks. 

To the esteemed Fire Lord, our great emperor,

From the Office of the Ministry of Defense,

Enclosed are the official reports from the security forces deployed to aid the Ambassador of the Water Tribe, as well as the Ambassador’s own description of the event. To give our own short summary for His Majesty’s convenience:

An Earthbender broke into the Ambassador’s Wing at approximately 300°. He wore a mask and attempted to stab the Ambassador repeatedly while he slept. Estimates say he was working alongside four or five people. All perpetrators remain at large. 

Our office sees this as added proof of the strained relationship between the Earth Kingdom public and the Fire Nation. The claws of a frightened owlcat are ten times more dangerous than those of the owlcat that trusts you. We must be wary of the Earth Kingdom’s movements. This peace is tenuous and our position, should relationships falter, poor. 

We are grateful to have found success for our recommendation to increase military presence in the Hu Xin Provinces, South Hiatu, and Yu Dao. We hope His Majesty will listen to the advice from the formed committee, and work with his advisors to protect our most vulnerable and maintain the glory of the Fire Nation. 

Full regards,

Xuemei, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of the Ministry of Defense

Guanyu,

So, either Xuemei is incompetent or lying to me. Let me know which one.

Zuko

Fire Lord,

👍

Guanyu

Guanyu,

What?? What is that?

Zuko

To the Office of our Great Fire Lord, 

From the Office of the Ministry of Finance,

Our apologies to the Fire Lord for the failure of our office to prevent the official recommendation of increased military capability in Earth Kingdom provinces, which was given in council this morning. The loss of Ambassador Sokka was a great one, that our office will miss sorely. We feel the data presented by Advisors Xuemei and Yong Lian told a partial story, rather than full truth. The remaining numbers are enclosed.

Wishing our lord peace in these trying times,

Fumi Amamiya, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of Finance 

To the esteemed and honorable Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

From the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, Owner of the Winner of the Best Bear in Ba Sing Se award four years running, Owner of the Winner of the Fanciest Bear in Omashu, Owner of the Winner of the Most Magnificent Mammal from Omashu to Gaoling, and Owner of the Winner of Most Bear-est Bear in Ba Sing Se, 

Greetings. The Earth Kingdom would like to formally recommend Swamp Leader Huu as supervisor to the trial of Prisoner 1. Although the Foggy Swamp is located within Earth Kingdom borders, it is recognized as an independent entity, with little contact outside the swamp. The spiritualism of the Swamp recognizes all beings as connected to each other and the world, which leads to an impartial and non-partisan view of recent events. In Swamp Leader Huu’s own words upon approach by Earth Kingdom aides, “Yeah, I have no idea what’s going on. I can totally arbitrate or whatever, sounds easy enough.” The Earth Kingdom recognizes and will support the Fire Nation’s right to approach Swamp Leader Huu with their own aides as well, to ensure an equitable trial. 

If the Fire Nation is amenable to this proposal, the Earth Kingdom can arrange transport to send Swamp Leader Huu to the Fire Nation within the week. 

Regards,

Kuei, King of the Earth Kingdom

They’re sending the swamp guys??

Sokka,

You were the one who almost got assassinated by some guy with a blanket on his head. If you wanted to stick around, you shouldn’t have done that.

Zuko

WOW. Someone’s grumpy. 

I’m not grumpy! I’m calm and collected. Cool-headed. I’m responding appropriately to a difficult situation. If you have any ideas to pull this off with some swampbender staring over our shoulders, and you want to be actually helpful, let me know. 

Well actually, I had this fantastic, totally fool-proof idea for how you could do that, but I guess you’re too grumpy to hear it, grump-face. Too bad for you.

I literally just asked you to let me know! 

Mei Li,

How do I write to the Swamp Leader? What do I do if the Swamp Leader is staying in Caldera Palace?

Zuko

Fire Lord, 

Who or what is the Swamp Leader?

From the desk of Mei Li, Head Assistant to the Fire Lord

Hello again Zuko, Zhong Zhong just filled me in. I have her drafting something now. Constantly surprised by the world we live in, since when was there a nation in the Swamp, please keep me updated about what seems like important geopolitical developments, etc. etc. I am also forming a team to research the appropriate accommodations for a man whose nation is in a swamp. 

I am assuming he would feel offended if we provided complimentary pants? Since you have more experience with this nation, please correct me. 

From the desk of Mei Li, Head Assistant to the Fire Lord

Mei Li,

I really, really don’t.

Zuko

Then I will offer the pants and you can’t stop me.

From the desk of Mei Li, Head Assistant to the Fire Lord

Sokka, are you done with your tantrum yet?

Zuko

Oh no, it looks like I suddenly can’t read any words that don’t start with “I’m” and end with “sorry.” What a strange condition. I’ll have to ask Uncle, now that I’m in Ba Sing Se and can visit him whenever I want, all the time.

Don’t call him Uncle. He’s not your uncle. What is with everyone and spending so much time with my uncle these days? 

Can’t hear you over this great time I’m having with my new uncle, the Dragon of the West, while I recover from my near-death experience that some people have no sympathy for.

You’ve had near-death experiences before, you’re just being dramatic. 

I guess you would know, since you caused most of them.

Wow, that was low.

To the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, 

From the Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

The recommendation of Swamp Leader Huu to supervise the trial of Prisoner 1 is acceptable to the Fire Nation. Palace staff is prepared to accommodate him and look forward to his arrival in Caldera City. We will re-start the trial from its beginning and send the appropriate transcripts as soon as possible.

We look forward to resolving this matter between our nations and reassuring the Earth Kingdom of our commitment to the wellbeing of all its citizens.

Regards,

Fire Lord

Zuko

FIRE LORD SWAMP LEADER HUU HERE THANKS FOR THE INVITE TO YOUR PALACE SICK DIGS LOOKING FORWARD TO TRIAL SUPERVISING ENJOY THE CALLA

Zuko, we have already dealt with the lilies sent by the Swamp Leader. We are planting it in a special location of the imperial gardens. No need to worry.

From the desk of Mei Li, Head Assistant to the Fire Lord

Mei Li,

The Swamp Leader just sent me a bush

I’d die without you

Zuko

To the Ambassador and Representative of the Southern Water Tribe, teacher of the Avatar and bridge between nations, Son of Head Chieftain Hakoda of the Southern Water Tribe, Captain Boomerang,

From the Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

We would like to extend our greatest apologies for any harm dealt to the Representative’s honor, friendship, and pride. We understand that the Representative’s heart and ego can be fragile things and we regret the words that lead to their damage. May the rift between ourselves be healed and conflict resolved.

Greatest laments,

Fire Lord,

Zuko

That is not as good an apology as you think it is, but fine.

[Attached are a series of scrolls. Honestly way more than is probably necessary. The plan is elaborate.]

You got Katara??

Uhh, is that a “thank you” I hear? Is that a “wow, what a great plan Sokka, thank you so much” that I hear?

Thank you, Sokka.

You’re welcome.

Zuko, just heard from Sokka. I can be there by tomorrow. In return, we’ll be discussing the further dismantlement of Fire Nation steel manufacturies in the Hu Xin Provinces the next day. The runoff is getting into the rivers and angering the spirits by the coasts. 

Katara

Katara,

You’re negotiating the prevention of an international incident to have an illicit political discussion??? What happened to “if you ruin these peace talks I’ll literally kill you”

Zuko

Yeah

Katara

Katara,

I can’t dismantle them but I happen to have a Swamp Leader here who can talk about other ways to do it?

That works.

Katara

Zuko,

It isn’t the freedom fighters. We think we found the real culprits, but can’t say who now don’t trust your cabinet think of who in your cabinet wouldbenefit from increasedtensionswih the Earth Kingdom

Toph

Mai wrote th

Hey, I haven’t heard from Suki in a while. Is it time to worry now?

Chapter Text

Dearest Zuko,

The Jasmine Dragon slowly recovers, as one does with grief. We are beginning to return to our daily routine, serving the movers and shakers of the Earth Kingdom capital, and feuding with the tea shop across the street. I sincerely regret to say that I have not seen Toph Beifong since she, Mai, and Suki last checked in with me two days ago. I will alert you the second I see her again.

In other news, we have partnered with carpenters in the Middle Ring to refurbish the Jasmine Dragon’s left room. They do an excellent reclining lounge, and we are experimenting with different styles of furnishing that are perhaps less formal or typical of a standard tea house. Places to meet, relax, play a game of Pai Sho. We will become a retreat for the scholars and politicians of Ba Sing Se, and thematically distinct from the horrid and low-brow Emerald Saber-Cat that encroaches on the southern border of Qiqi Street. 

What I have written, nephew, is an example of a life update. I learned about them from the Earth King, who has taken to joining our weekly tea circle, but I am not so sure about them. They seem like a “young person thing.” As you are a young person, how about you try sending one to me, so I can see how they are done?

Eager to learn from a master,

Your loving uncle

Dear Uncle,

Why is the earth king spending so much time with you

I don’t trust him

Don’t say I’m jealous there are actual political consequences to this

Shouldn’t you know that

You do know that

You’re messing with me

Thanks for the news. Don’t do anything to the Emerald Cat that would get you kicked out of Ba Sing Se. Hoping Toph makes contact soon. Life update: Things going well.

Your nephew,

Zuko

To the noble and greatly honorable Fire Lord, Wondrous Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, His Flaming Majesty, Student of Dragons, Defeater of the Xanshu Rebellion, and Leader Victorious of the Hundred Year War, Great Ruler of the Fire Lands, Lord of All that is Bright and Glorious, Agni’s Hands on Earth,

From the Office of Agricultural Ministries,

A hundred singing songbirds of welcome to the guest of the Fire Lord, Katara of the Southern Water Tribe! Current events in the Caldera move faster than the tidal patterns of the same name. We are in awe of our Fire Lord’s deft ability to juggle not only a trial and increasing tensions with the Earth Kingdom, but a personal guest as well! His dexterity truly knows no bounds, like the setting rays of the sun.

Given this great ability, we are sure recent considerations of agriculture have not slipped His Flaming Majesty’s red-hot mind. That is, of course, the proposal of retaining the arable land from Gaoling to Chameleon Bay. It has been many nights since our wonderful Fire Lord elected to respond to our office’s inquiries, or the official recommendation given to council last month. We are certain this is because he is pondering, planning, and scheming over how to implement the recommendation committee’s counsel given recent tensions.

With that in mind, our office humbly and humility-filled-ly seconds the Ministry of Defense’s proposal to increase military presence in those Earth Kingdom settlements we do retain. The Earth Kingdom no doubt realizes the benefit of this contested region of arable land and will be moving in to secure it post-haste, imminently, and with no delay. We beg our Fire Lord to think of the impact to the villagers! The raised costs faced by the poorest of our nation! The failed crops! We may be forced to seize this land through military efforts, and will be discussing such matters tomorrow morning in council.

We look forward to the conclusion of the trial this week.

Such deep respect and flattery to His Majesty’s attention, 

Yong Lian,

Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Fire Nation Office of Agricultural Ministeries

To the Office of Agricultural Ministries,

So, basically, you’re putting in a formal recommendation to council tomorrow morning to rescind the release of land between Gaoling and Chameleon Bay. That’s what this letter was about. 

“His Flaming Majesty”

Zuko

To the noble and greatly honorable Fire Lord, 

Yeah, pretty much.

Yong Lian,

Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Fire Nation Office of Agricultural Ministeries

Katara,

Let’s move the trial up to this afternoon. Can you be ready?

Zuko

You owe me so much after this! Why does this costume smell so bad? Have you never heard of washing your clothes before?

Katara

I did wash it.

Zuko

I don’t believe you.

Katara

[Excerpts from Judiciary Records 11B21, 6-30-103, 1320°]

FIRE LORD ZUKO (FL. Z) presides as judge. THE BLUE SPIRIT (PRIS.1) sits as the accused, representing himself. The defendant of this case is LI, represented by legal counselor AKIHITO (REP). SWAMP LEADER HUU (SLH) supervises. 

FL.Z: We are here to examine the criminal case of the “Blue Spirit,” on charges of treason, larceny, petty larceny, arson, murder, and abduction. The Fire Lord presides, the accused represents himself, and the defendant reports himself as “too traumatized” to attend. He is represented in absence by counselor Akihito. We give our thanks to Swamp Leader Huu for providing nonpartisan supervision. 

PRIS.1: Murder?

(FL.Z makes an exasperated gesture. Transcriber’s note: It seems rather unprofessional.)

PRIS.1: The accused pleads, “not guilty.” 

FL.Z: We commence the trial.

Zuko,

It’s Suki. Mai and Toph have disappeared, but I believe I know where they are. Expect a report imminently.

[TESTIMONY: PRIS.1, on accusations of abduction]

PRIS.1: I never kidnapped anyone! I defend those who can’t defend themselves. Talk to anyone in Ba Sing Se or—(pause, looking at hand) Po-hi village? They’ll tell you! I saved the Avatar once. I’d never go around kidnapping refugees. I am a refugee! And how would I even do it? The Blue Spirit works alone.

FL.Z: Can you testify to the accusation of abducting the defendant?

PRIS.1: I never kidnapped Li! I saved him from three strangers who were attacking him in his own home. Then I got him out of there through the window and we fled to the Fire Nation, until the ship we chartered was intercepted by the Fire Lord. Li can tell you that he agreed to leaving with me. And going to the Fire Nation was his own idea!

FL.Z: What about the murder charges? Can you talk about the murder charges?

PRIS.1: (pause) I… didn’t murder anyone?

FL.Z: Thank you, that will be all. 

To the Office of our Great Fire Lord, 

From the Office of the Ministry of Finance,

Lord, our office has recently uncovered what we believe to be evidence of embezzlement and murder-for-hire through one of the cabinet offices. Specifically, a charge of “One (1) assassin — 70 mil ban” was processed through the Caldera Palace cabinet account approximately five days ago, and only recently flagged. Although I understand corruption is idiomatic in Fire Nation history, I humbly advise my lord to assume ignorance over malice, and allow us to review the data with the head of Royal Security. Expect a report. 

Clinging to the hope that we will not see mass-layoffs in our cabinet a third time,

Fumi Amamiya, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of Finance 

[Attachment to prior message]

Cabinet Expenditures, 6-24-103. FLAGGED FOR REVIEW

Four (4) standard-grade window coverings—Silk Tree—Replacements, Off. Agr.—5 thou ban

Six (6) sheafs paper, stamped—Morimoto Office Depot—Restock—230 ban

One (1) assassin—Independent contractor—Loose ends—70 mil ban

Three (3) assorted fruit baskets—Puri Market Assortments—Morale—60 ban

…

Fire Lord,

Working with Amamiya on the assassin thing. Increasing guard around you in meantime. Let me know if you see anything shady!

Guanyu , Head of Royal Security

[CROSS-EXAMINATION: PRIS.1, on relationship to defendant]

REP: I find it exceedingly strange that you continue to wear the mask at your trial. Can you explain this choice? Why do you conceal your identity, if you have nothing to hide?

PRIS.1: (pause) I wear the mask because at this point, the Blue Spirit is my identity. The mask is more true to myself than my actual face. It is more honest to be disguised at this trial, than to reveal my face.

REP: What would you say the identity of the Blue Spirit is? Who are you?

PRIS.1: I am… the defender of the defenseless! The unseen hand of justice for the mistreated! The redistributor of hoarded wealth! I am… the Blue Spirit!

(Transcriber’s note: FL.Z makes an unhappy sound. The trial continues.)

REP: Would you count the defendant as one of the “defenseless” or “mistreated”?

PRIS.1: Mistreated, I think. Not defenseless, haha. He can handle himself. Probably. I mean, I’d assume, based on how we fought off those attackers together. 

REP: How have you come to the conclusion that the defendant is ‘mistreated’? Have you known the defendant for very long?

PRIS.1: Actually, we met only a few weeks ago, when I stepped in during the attack on his life. After we defeated his attackers, we realized that there was something much larger going on, and that by jumping in, I’d gotten involved. We both had family in the Fire Nation, so we decided to run away there together.

REP: There was no connection between you and the defendant that led to you intervening?

PRIS.1: No, I’d never met him before. I was just walking around and heard someone shouting in the apartments and went to check it out. The door was kicked open and so I ran in, and after that, it was fate.

REP: “It was fate.” What was fate, exactly?

PRIS.1: Well… meeting each other, I suppose. We split the fare to Caldera City… defending the defenseless isn’t exactly a stable salary. We… played a lot of Pai Sho?

REP: I see… What would you say is the nature of your relationship?

(No answer from PRIS.1)

FL.Z: You have to respond to the representative.

PRIS.1: We’re… friends? I mean, I don’t really talk to people. Yeah, that’s it. I’m a reclusive vigilante shut-in who has no reference point for human interaction, so I can’t say.

(Transcriber’s note: FL.Z makes an even unhappier sound. The trial still continues.)

REP: So, would you say your connection to the defendant is unique? Perhaps you would act on his behalf in a way you would not act with, say, Tao from the Ba Sing Se Pottery Farm? 

FL.Z: That seems like a leading question, counselor.

REP: I’ll re-phrase. Do you believe the defendant is different from the other kidnapped refugees?

PRIS.1: Oh. Well, kind of. Li is different because he’s Li, you know, I know him well now. But if I met him on the street before all this, I wouldn’t have thought he was any different from someone else in Ba Sing Se. He’s pretty a normal guy. Tea server, refugee… Pretty much the same as the other targets. Except for how I’ve come to know him since meeting him during the attack.

REP: Thank you, Mister Spirit, Majesty, that will be all.

Fire Lord,

Not sure if you can actually get my messages while you’re in a trial, but just wanted to let you know there was a breach on the far wall. No casualties, but we saw evidence of trespassing. Probably nothing but figured I should tell you. 

Guanyu , Head of Royal Security

[TESTIMONY: PRIS.1, on accusations of treason]

PRIS.1: Okay, so I did break into a Fire Nation stronghold, and I did probably blow up some Fire Nation ships, but in my defense, we were all doing that. It was a war. We’re just calling it treason right now because I was fighting against the Fire Nation and I’m, uh. Totally not the Fire Lord. But Fire Lord Zuko was doing all those things too, and nobody’s arresting him! When you think about it, I was actually helping the Fire Nation—the current administration, that is.

FL.Z: Can you please stop talking about how much treason I committed?

PRIS.1: But if you committed all that treason, I can commit some too, right? Either they arrest both of us or neither of us, and they can’t arrest you.

FL.Z: I actually don’t know. Can I be arrested now?

REP: I assumed, Lord, that you pardoned yourself.

FL.Z: Oh. I don’t remember doing that.

(Pause)

REP: Let’s talk about that later.

Zuko,

Found Mai and Toph. Also a whole bunch of other people. It’s not good. Hawk to follow.

Suki

[TESTIMONY: PRIS.1, on accusations of arson]

PRIS.1: So, I don’t actually know anything about this. I guess I… blew something up? Or didn’t blow anything up? No? I… had a bomb? No, I didn’t have a bomb. Somebody else had a bomb, and I took it from them, and then I threw it and… a moth-bear got caught in a clothesline?

REP: Lord, are you pantomiming at the accused?

FL.Z: No. (mid-gesture. Transcriber’s note: it’s unconvincing.)

REP: Let’s just move on.

(The window at the front of the courtroom breaks inwards. An INTRUDER [INTR.] enters and attempts to attack PRIS.1. PRIS.1 throws up his hands and steps away. INTR. stops his attack. He points at PRIS.1, then at FL.Z.)

INTR.: Hey, wait a minute!

FL.Z: This trial is temporarily adjourned.

Fire Lord,

Caught the intruder, as you know. Turns out the security breach was important. Go figure! Holding intruder for questioning now. Based on reports, it seems this is the same as who tried to assassinate Amb. Sokka the other day. He’s really angry. 

Guanyu , Head of Royal Security

Sokka,

So remember Jet?

Zuko

I thought he died!

No, we’ve been meeting up for a while to fight about our feelings and stuff. I thought you knew?

That’s who that was?? I thought it was like, a look-a-like or something. 

You thought I’d found someone who looked like my dead friend enemy acquaintance to beat me up as a fake version of myself when I got stressed? Like some kind of re-enactment?

I don’t know!! Grief is weird. I thought I’d mind my business.

Since when have you ever minded your business!

There’s always time to try something new.

[Excerpt from transcript of super top-secret interrogation of Intruder 1 (INTR.1) by Fire Lord Zuko (FL.Z), with supervision from the Head of Royal Security (RS.H), 6-31-103, 1421.5°-1425.7°]

INTR.1: So does anyone want to tell me what in Shu’s name is going on here?

FL.Z: I’m supposed to be asking that. 

INTR.1: Too bad, I asked anyway. Take that. 

FL.Z: Nevermind. What are you doing here? We heard there were freedom fighters in Ba Sing Se.

INTR.1: Freedom fighters? What freedom fighters? There’s no more of us. The only two in Ba Sing Se set up a carpentry shop in the Middle Ring. Everybody else spread out over the Earth Kingdom, no idea where they ended up now. We’re all gone.

FL.Z: Except you.

INTR.1: I’m not a freedom fighter anymore. I go like this now. (gesturing at self)

FL.Z: We have got to get you a better costume than that.

INTR.1: The—it’s fine! The costume’s fine!

FL.Z: It’s a blanket on your head. You look like a corpse shroud.

INTR.1: Afraid I’m going for your look?

(Pause. Transcriber’s note: I should be paid more for this.)

FL.Z: I’m not answering that. Why are you here, now?

INTR.1: Well, I got a contract to kill the Blue Spirit, but something seemed weird about it, you know, so I figured I’d come try to kill you, get a fun fight out of it, say hi, and then get out with the down payment. 

FL.Z: What was so weird about it?

INTR.1: They said it was because the Blue Spirit kidnapped the target of another kidnapping attempt or something or other, but I knew that wasn’t true, because you were on route to Caldera then.

FL.Z: Why do you know where I was? 

INTR.1: Not important. The other thing is that the guy who hired me was clearly one of your ministers with a fake mustache on.

Hey Zuko, Suki told me she found Mai and Toph and would send a follow-up hawk, but I didn’t get a hawk. Did you?

…I’ll send Katara.

Chapter Text

[A collection of headlines from newspapers across Caldera City, along with a series of seemingly personal correspondence, as before]

OUT OF BUSINESS: The sorry state of journalism in Caldera City [Caldera Ember] 

By Sato Sato, 7-01-103

CALDERA EMBER SHUTTING DOWN OPERATIONS

Corruption, Crime, and Cringey Articles: Behind the Nefarious Scenes of a Caldera City Newspaper: A Review [Caldera Chronicle]

By An Yu, 7-01-103

The Caldera Ember has been bribing and blackmailing their way through the Caldera Palace staff. 

ROYAL ADVISOR? More like ROYAL ARREST-VISOR! Palace official dragged out of courtroom in cuffs! [Caldera Flame]

By Lian He, 7-01-103

[A note sent to the Caldera Flame Editorial Office, 7-01-103]

How did you know?

—An Yu

[A responding note sent to the Caldera Chronicle Editorial Office, 7-01-103]

Oh, so am I “real journalist” enough for you yet? Maybe if you weren’t so busy tailing Sato Sato to publish your callout article you could have seen what I saw too: “A rEvIEw”

[Responding note to Caldera Flame, etc.]

I was defending your honor!

—An Yu

Guanyu,

Do we need to have another talk about stealing people’s private communication?

Zuko

Fire Lord,

That was for Zhong Zhong. I got the addresses mixed up again.

Guanyu,

Head of the Department of Royal Security

Guanyu,

That doesn’t help!

Zuko

To the esteemed and honorable Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

From the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, Owner of the Winner of the Best Bear in Ba Sing Se award four years running, Owner of the Winner of the Fanciest Bear in Omashu, Owner of the Winner of the Most Magnificent Mammal from Omashu to Gaoling, Owner of the Winner of Most Bear-est Bear *and* Most Normal Bear in Ba Sing Se, 

Greetings. The Earth Kingdom extends its respects to the Fire Nation in this troubled time. We understand that Fire Nation offices may be in slight disarray following the events of this morning. Whenever the Fire Nation would be so pleased to send an update on the status of Prisoner 1 and insight into the investigation of the Fire Nation refugees, the Earth Kingdom would be grateful.

Regards,

Kuei, King of the Earth Kingdom

Earth King,

Give me like five minutes

Is this because I won’t use your stupid awards

Forgive the informality, writing to you to apologize for the delay in sending records of the Blue Spirit trial. Breakthrough has occurred. Also, arrested one of my ministers mid-trial, political scandal, chaos in the cabinet, etc. Hence, delay. We’ll send it soon.

Also, sorry for any stuff in Ba Sing Se, we’ll send funds to repair up to three-fourths of it if you don’t sue us. 

Zuko.

Fire Lord,

What stuff in Ba Sing Se?

Kuei,

Earth King

To the noble and greatly honorable Fire Lord, Student of Dragons, Defeater of the Xanshu Rebellion,

From the Office of Agricultural Ministries,

Our deference and respect to the Fire Lord’s decisions. We acknowledge the damage that our office has caused to the goals and purposes of the Fire Nation; our fate as a cabinet is in his hands. 

We plead for the Fire Lord’s grace and understanding. Our Lord has already been kind in granting us three days to collect all records of misconduct before the scheduled review, as described in the missive sent recently to our office. With full awareness of the audacity of our request, we humbly plead our Lord to give us one more kindness, and answer a question asked in full honesty: 

What’s happening?

Akemi,

Assistant Advisor, Office of Agricultural Ministries

Zuko,

What’s up with the agricultural offices and corruption? Like seriously, again?

To the Office of Agricultural Ministeries,

Arrested Yong Lian. Hope you don’t mind. 

Zuko,

Fire Lord

Sokka,

Not sure. More nepotism?

But this guy was a merit hire.

We’re not very good at it yet.

To the Office of our Great Fire Lord, 

From the Office of the Ministry of Finance,

The recommendation to rescind the release of land from Gaoling to Chameleon Bay has been officially retracted, and the committee disbanded. At the risk of sounding unprofessional: thank Agni! Please expect the full trace of funds from the Office of Agricultural Ministries to the “independent contractor” hired to assassinate Ambassador Sokka within the week. 

Wishing once again to live in less interesting times,

Fumi Amamiya, Head Advisor to the Fire Lord of the Office of Finance

Fire Lord,

The prisoner is available for interrogation. 😊 

Guanyu , Head of Royal Security

Guanyu,

Stop sending me these faces. I don’t know what they mean.

Fire Lord Zuko

Fire Lord,

😄

Guanyu , Head of Royal Security

[Excerpt from transcript of interrogation of Prisoner 2 (PRIS.2) by Fire Lord Zuko (FL.Z), with supervision from the Head of Royal Security (RS.H), 7-01-103, 1012.9°-1015.3°]

FL.Z: Your assistant is worried she’ll lose her job.

PRIS.2: Who, Akemi? Why? 

FL.Z: You contracted a hitman from the office account and now we’re investigating the entire ministry for complicity? 

PRIS.2: But Akemi doesn’t even do anything!

RS.H: She does all the meetings you don’t go to. Sorry. Supervising.

FL.Z: I didn’t know you knew each other.

RS.H: She and Zhong Zhong do brunch sometimes. 

PRIS.2: Lord, in my humble and understated opinion, you don’t know what you’re talking about. The functionings of agriculture are mysterious and ill-defined, even to me—

FL.Z: Even to you? Didn’t you come in through the talent search? Why did we hire you?

PRIS.2: Regardless. The arable land—

FL.Z: From Gaoling to Chameleon Bay. Right.

PRIS.2: Our Lord has repeatedly demonstrated despite the numerous attempts of our office his benobled but utterly insufficient knowledge of this topic. We suspected that this was due to the whisperings of the Ambassador, and thus… cleaned up house, a bit.

FL.Z: …Right. And why do we need this land, again?

PRIS.2: It is a completely idiotic economical move! The amount of profit turned in Gaoling alone near doubles that of our next-closest export—

FL.Z: In agriculture? Agriculture’s not even in the top ten of our GDP. We do steel, tech, and service.

PRIS.2: Wheat farmed in the Bay is astronomically more profitable than the rice produced in Shuhon! 

RS.H: And you own a mill in Laoshan. Right, sorry. Supervising. 

(FL.Z sighs)

He was hired because he owns a mill corporation in the Earth Kingdom? That didn’t seem like a conflict of interest to you?

Okay 1) We are very not good at merit hiring yet, 2) I sent that transcript to you because Yong Lian’s story is not adding up at all. Jet wasn’t aiming for you in the first place, he was after the Blue Spirit. Why would Yong Lian lie about that? There’s something deeper going on here.

And all that stuff with the “freedom fighters.”

We don’t know that was part of all this.

Dude.

Okay yes I know it probably was. 

Dear Nephew,

These arrived at my door this morning. Could they be relevant to your current troubles?

All the best,

Your loving uncle

[Attached: Bloodied and mangled set of papers, arrived on the Fire Lord’s desk once again after near-ludicrously over-cautious handling from the Fire Lord’s staff—if Suki wants her messages to have priority she really shouldn’t send them looking like death threats]

[Official mission report, written 6-29-103, filed 7-01-103, SUKI | KYOSHI WARRIOR]

…A.Beifong was sent to investigate these tunnels, where she found approximately thirty (30) civilians trapped in cavern systems under the city. A full count is yet to be made. A.Beifong remained to escort the civilians to safety, but was unable to report to the lead investigator or A.Mai. Meanwhile, A.Mai investigated the Fire Nation embassy and found reports between a member of the Fire Nation Advisory Cabinet and the “freedom fighters.” A.Mai was detained at the embassy, and missed her check-in time…

[Copied mission log, written 6-30-103, filed 7-01-103, MAI | FIRE NATION INTELLIGENCE LEAD AGENT]

920°??

…and exploded. Escaped from embassy, stuck in caverns. Found Toph + a whole bunch of other people.  Wow. Compared notes, found conspiracy, attacked by copycat freedom fighters again. 2 in custody. Base probably down here somewhere. Civilians unwell, enemies’ restraints heavily improvised. After consideration, decided too risky to keep looking for natural exit. Hopefully we don’t ruin any important buildings on way out.

930°

Opened tunnel through center of Royal Tea Palace. 

935°

Found Suki!

[Copied mission log, written 7-01-103, filed 7-01-103, TOPH BEIFONG | INDEPENDENT AGENT]

[Clumsy doodle of the destruction of the Royal Tea Palace, a fake freedom fighter looking sad, and also Toph herself, looking much more muscular than she normally does]

HAHA!

(Mai wrote this)

Fire Lord,

I was just notified of considerable damage to the Royal Tea Palace. We will be collecting on the funds to repair three-fourths by the end of the week; expect an invoice from my contractors. I suppose I deserve this. 

Kuei,

Earth King

What I don’t get is why Yong Lian would send fake freedom fighters to kidnap Earth Kingdom citizens. What’s that going to do?

It was to justify taking back the land we were going to give up, wasn’t it? For the profit?

Yeah, but he could have put that in as a normal recommendation. Like, “oh no, guys, our money!” And recommended it be struck from the accords while there’s still time before they're signed. It probably would’ve worked. He didn’t have to seize the land by force and do all that stuff with increasing military presence there.

He wasn’t the one who did that, though. 

[Even more headlines and correspondence]

ADMINISTRATION? More like ARREST-MINSTRATION! A SECOND palace official arrested! [Caldera Flame]

By Lian He, 7-01-103

[Note sent to the Caldera Flame Editorial Office]

Seriously, again? What are your sources?

—An Yu

[Response sent to the Caldera Chronicle Editorial Office]

Not telling, mad at you >:{

[Etc.,]

You’re being facetious

—An Yu

BREAKING: Local reporter called “facetious” for being RIGHT [Caldera Flame]

By Lian He, 7-01-103

How are you publishing these so fast!

—An Yu

GUYS.

Zuko

Fire Lord

Sorry Lord, we got invested.

Zhong Zhong | Royal Staff | Assistant Secretary

Fire Lord,

I’m not sorry.

Guanyu , Head of Royal Security

[Excerpt from transcript of interrogation of Prisoner 3 (PRIS.3) by Fire Lord Zuko (FL.Z), with supervision from the Head of Royal Security (RS.H), 7-01-103, 1500.6°-1503.9°]

FL.Z: Toph told me to look out for who would benefit from tensions with the Earth Kingdom. You’re the only one I could think of who also knew about the freedom fighters. 

PRIS.3: That’s no proof. All conjecture. 

FL.Z: Also, Jet said he could identify you. 

PRIS.3: …Jet?

FL.Z: The assassin you had Yong Lian hire to kill the Blue Spirit. It was because he and Li weren’t part of the plan, wasn’t it? You needed to simplify things. He could have been a witness.

PRIS.3: I didn’t have Yong Lian do anything. Do you think that idiot listens to me?

FL.Z: I know you did it, and Amamiya is tracing the funds now.

PRIS.3: He won’t find anything.

FL.Z: We’ll see. At this point, I just want to know why. 

PRIS.3: What does why matter anymore? What does anything matter anymore? This country is despairing, falling inwards into itself, like a collapsing bridge of cards. You never needed a reason from any of us—you’ve thrown me in here with no proof, with no trial. You’d kill me over nothing but your own petty whim. 

FL.Z: What? Nobody’s killing you. 

RS.H: I mean—

FL.Z: You’re supervising!

PRIS.3: So I’ll be left languishing in some far-off prison, then? Maybe in the Earth Kingdom. How is that any different than death, Lord? The injustice prevails.

FL.Z: You’ll get a trial. What are you talking about? 

PRIS.3: You are a disgrace to your father, and a disgrace to the throne—that’s what I’m talking about! How can you just sit there? Your subjects were being kidnapped by Earth Kingdom terrorists, and you did nothing! You didn’t even know about it!

RS.H: Lord Zuko…

FL.Z: Well, first, that was you who was kidnapping them, and I sent Toph.

PRIS.3: You sent a little earthbending girl against what you believed—because you didn’t know it was me then, Lord Zuko—what you believed was one of the greatest terrorist cells the Fire Nation has ever seen. They blew up one of the most strategically important infrastructural projects of the war and flooded a town of civilians. They must have been hundreds strong. Who knows how many they’ve increased since the end of the war.

RS.H: My lord—

FL.Z: Yes, I saw it. When you say terrorist cell, are you talking about the freedom fighters?

PRIS.3: Who else? I’ve known it since the start. You have no care for your subjects or the respect of the nation, you’re spending our wealth frivolously on meaningless projects, draining the funds that we use to protect our children, dismantling our industries and loosing criminals into the streets! When you saw your subjects kidnapped off the streets of a foreign city, you sent no forces in to save them. You are no Fire Lord of mine. You were never fit to hold the throne. 

FL.Z: Xuemei, the freedom fighters were like, five teenagers with blasting jelly. 

(Pause.)

PRIS.3: What!

RS.H: You will not shout at the Fire Lord!

That’s why he chose to use the freedom fighters? He thought they were some huge guerilla rebellion squad?

Mai, Ty Lee, and Azula provided more intel on Earth Kingdom movements in the last year of the war than our intelligence forces did the other 99. 

You know what, that explains a lot. 

Zuko,

Toph and I are returning to the Fire Nation while Mai and Katara stay in the Earth Kingdom to sort out the remaining loose ends with the embassy. Mai was injured in an encounter with the remaining freedom fighters beneath Ba Sing Se and requires medical attention; she will also be remaining to act as a representative of the Fire Nation with the embassy. Katara was integral to helping her escape. Thank you for sending her to us.

The Earth King seems to find our collapse of one of the cultural heritage pieces of the royal palace more amusing than horrifying, but I am unsure how long this mood will last. I have attached the confessions of the kidnappers who had been masquerading as freedom fighters detailing the circumstances of their hiring and pinning Xuemei as the major orchestrator. They have little to say about his reasoning, however. 

I have submitted an official mission report to General Iroh, which should have made its way to your desk by now, along with the missed mission logs that went un-submitted over the past two days as we traced the kidnapped refugees through the tunnels beneath Ba Sing Se. Have you gotten anything out of Xuemei and Yong Lian’s interrogation?

Suki,

Kyoshi Warrior

Suki,

Am I a bad Fire Lord?

Zuko

Zuko,

Is that what he said?

Suki,

He said the reason he staged the kidnapping of our own citizens by an anti-Fire Nation “hate organization” was so he could justify installing a military force in Ba Sing Se, which was step one of a larger plan to strain the relationship with the Earth Kingdom enough to justify re-starting the war. And an end goal of deposing me. 

I didn’t send any forces to protect my citizens in the Earth Kingdom. Should I have? Do I waste my nation’s money? Am I unjust? Am I just as corrupt as the lords that came before me? Listening to the Avatar doesn’t make all the laws I’ve broken and shortcuts I’ve taken any more justified. Xuemei genuinely cares about the people of this nation. I thought he was just doing this to be petty or for riches like Yong Lian but I think he genuinely does want to protect our people. 

I arrested Xuemei before I had evidence against him. 

Zuko

Zuko, 

I don’t know. 

I wish I could tell you that you are a just and honorable Fire Lord, just because you’re trying, and you’re worried about these things, but I can’t. I don’t know what impact your actions will have. 

You did imprison Xuemei with no cause. You had Katara dress up as the Blue Spirit and Sokka was forging trial minutes so that you could get away with treason and petty theft. You cut corners, lied, and broke the same laws you are responsible for enforcing. You were impulsive. The law sees no good intentions, and it wasn’t written to protect what’s right. We have the law so the world is a little fairer. Sometimes, what’s fair isn’t what’s kind. 

Waiting to arrest Xuemei until you had more than circumstantial evidence could have allowed him to escape and gather a more direct force against you. Then who would be Fire Lord? General Iroh, who led the most brutal attack against Ba Sing Se it had seen in at least the last half of the war? Azula? 

The difference between you and Xuemei, because I know you’re getting all angsty about that right now, is that you’re not assuming that you know the most honorable choice or that you know all the truth in the world already. You’re asking me, you’re asking Kuei during the summits, you’re asking the people of the Fire Nation, every day, what they want their country to be. You’re asking the people of other nations. You went out and found the truth. The reason you didn’t send a military force to combat the freedom fighters was because you knew who they really were. 

I think the only thing you can do is pick the most honorable choice you have available to you, and you did. 

Suki

Suki,

Thank you.

ZUKO,

Just got back from the Eastern Temple! Did I miss anything?

AANG

Chapter Text

To the esteemed and honorable Fire Lord, Great Emperor of the Fire Nation and isles surrounding, teacher of the Avatar and Bridge Between Worlds, 

From the Monarch of All the Earth Kingdom and Defender of Ba Sing Se, the 52nd Earth King, 

Greetings. The Earth Kingdom has received the official trial transcript of Prisoner 1, as supervised by Swamp Leader Huu, and sends the Fire Nation its thanks. It accepts the trial’s conclusion as non-guilty. 

The Earth Kingdom proposes the addition of protocol in the case of offenses against multiple nations to the Eighth Quadnation Summit. The trials of Lords Yong Lian and Xuemei will be integral in determining this protocol; as these cases are not as inherently urgent as that of Prisoner 1, we hope for the continued cooperation of our two nations to discover a suitable path forward and seek harmony above all. Our staff is already in conversation with Ambassador Sokka and Lady Mai to draft a preliminary plan.

Our greatest regards,

Kuei, King of the Earth Kingdom

“Li,”

I naVe been LOcked up in the Caldera City Muncipal Jail for 3 days. Are yOu going to let me Out any time soon??

[No signature, but a piece of bitten-off wheat was enclosed in the message]

Give me a bit, I’ve been busy. Take the time to think about your life. Plan out another costume.

Zuko

P.S.: Seriously, the blanket looks weird

P.P.S: Just informed it had actually been a shroud?? Like a literal corpse shroud?? Why.

THANK YOU FOR THE VISIT THE PALACE WAS VERY NICE HOPE THE BLUE GUY ENJOYED THE TRIAL YOU PUT ON FOR HIM I DONT GET IT MYSELF BUT I GUESS IT WAS A VERY SWEET GESTURE IF HE LIKES THAT SORT OF THING HAD FUN SUPERVISING COME TO THE SWAMP WHENEVER YOU WANT WE CAN HANG OUT AND LOOK AT BUGS

Did Huu think you were putting on some sort of mock trial as a romantic gesture to the Blue Spirit? Am I reading that right?

Why are you reading my mail?

You just now noticed that?

Beloved Zuko,

The Jasmine Dragon is ecstatic to learn of Li’s survival! There were plentiful tears in the shop today as our patrons celebrating. The Earth King had kept us updated on the case, of course, as any good king would care for the wellbeing of his subjects, but in full truth, we had not believed it until you sent us confirmation. 

Regardless, the staff of the Jasmine Dragon has elected to maintain the shrine to Li’s death that was arranged in the corner of the side parlor, as it is rather tasteful and adds an air of solemnity to the space that is conducive to the philosophical atmosphere we are attempting to create. I will show you the next time you visit. 

Above all, I applaud your continual care and dedication to your subjects. I am grateful every day to have you as my nephew and Fire Lord; your presence on the throne puts this old man’s heart at peace and sends joy and mirth into the streets of all nations, for numerous reasons. Take care, nephew, and visit soon.

Your uncle

P.S. Have you heard of the new play on Ember Island? I have not managed to acquire a poster yet, but I hear it is particularly topical.  

Fire Lord,

The intruder has escaped from the Caldera City Municipal Jail. I know he’s sending you letters, did he say anything about, say, his devious plans to exploit the holes in city security and what exactly those holes were?

Guanyu , Head of Royal Security

Guanyu,

Assuming I can read his handwriting, no, sorry.

Fire Lord,

Zuko  

[Mass-printed poster]

Now announcing the EMBER ISLAND PLAYERS

New ORIGINAL Musical*

THE EMPEROR, THE THIEF, and THE TEA-SERVER!

Coming to YOU in playhouses across the Fire Nation SUMMER 103

The Heart of Royal-Tea Bleeds Blue… when secrets are revealed, will their friendship break?

“Except for how I’ve come to know him”

(Ask your local playhouse about tour dates and ticket prices)

*This play is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to real persons or events is purely a coincidence and will hold no basis in legal court.

[Note attached]

Zuko,

Sokka and I have tickets tomorrow with Aang. Yes, we have one for you too. 

Suki

Zuko,

HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! HAHA! HAHAHA!! 

Toph

(This was written by Mai)

Mai,

Would it be tyrannical of me to defund the arts? No particular reason.

Zuko,

Suki got me tickets too. It’ll be a date. You can bring Jet, I want to meet him. 

Reviews of THE EMPEROR, THE THIEF, and THE TEA SERVER!

So many twists and turns! The Emperor, the Thief, and the Tea-Server will always have you at the edge of your seat!

—The Caldera Flame

Fire Lord Rako having to arrest the Blue Whisk for vigilantism genuinely got to me, and then following it up with the Blue Whisk leaving Yi to save the town? And Yi staying to rebuild the Lots Lizard? Devastating. Truly a friendship for the ages. After they broke my heart in two, I genuinely don’t know where I could go to get a replacement… Maybe Morimoto Office Depot? Perhaps I could take advantage of their office furnishings package deal… 

—Kenshi, Morimoto Office Depot

Contrived but thrilling, so-bad-it’s-good, and unexpectedly heartfelt; the Ember Island Players once again remind us that you can’t spell artistic license without art in their new summer musical The Emperor, the Thief and the Tea-Server, which explores the ways in which love and duty can overlap and the ways in which they clash. Inspired by recent events. 

—The Caldera Chronicle

Wasn’t sure why he was called the Blue Whisk. Like, the cutlery? I was only told by my friend many days later that it’s supposed to be Whisk, like to whisk away. I suppose they were inspired by the infamous Blue Spirit, and to spirit off. I always thought it was spirit like ghost though… I guess whisk does work better for a thief, but I remain unconvinced. Five stars, but only for the music. 

—Eun-Woo, Secretary

Fire Lord Rako is so sweet, and his love for the Blue Whisk and Yi is even sweeter. I know they’re “friends,” but come on, we all know better, right? That moment in the lotus gardens, and THEN when the Blue Whisk protects Yi even knowing Rako will have to arrest him for it, and Fire Lord Rako’s goodbye to the Blue Whisk in the palace dungeon before Yi sets him free, and Yi in the ruins of the tea shop, like Agni kill me now, right?! The SHOULDER TOUCHING??? I just need to Fire Lord Rako returning to Siang Su Island when he needs a break from court life, visiting the Blue Whisk and Yi in their new tea house, all back together again… So romantic!~

—Nari, Puri Market Assortments

What in Shu’s name did I just watch.

—“The Shrouded Masked Blue Spirit Not Blue Spirit A Vigilante” (Anonymous mailer)

Mai,

I think he’s already seen it. Why do you want to meet Jet?

Zuko,

“No particular reason.” 

Mai,

You KNOW I don’t like it when you’re ominous. 

Zuko,

So that’s it, then? Yong Lian and Xuemei have their trials set, the kidnapped refugees are all back home and resuming the process of naturalization to the Earth Kingdom, the Blue Spirit is innocent and Li is returning to Ba Sing Se….

I don’t know. I just have this nagging sense I’m forgetting something, or something happened that I overlooked. 

Zuko,

So when were you going to tell me Jet’s alive?

Best wishes,

Katara

Sokka,

Nevermind, figured it out. 

Still, Zuko couldn’t quite shake the feeling he’d missed something. After a thorough chewing-out by Katara, he enjoyed two weeks of resolution until that nagging sensation returned. 

Caldera started to cool as the seasons turned from summer to winter. Mai returned from the Earth Kingdom in time to help him organize the Eighth Summit, which it was the Fire Nation’s turn to host. Zuko spent those weeks before the summit reviewing the proposals on the table, revising addendums to the legislature Sokka and Mai had proposed between their two nations’ lawyers, and hoping Yong Lian and Xuemei didn’t start anything while they were in prison. He really had no time to think of loose ends, so he put whatever he’d missed out of his mind.

Each year, it got a little easier to be Fire Lord. Standing in the grand halls of his palace felt that bit more natural, and placing his wrists carefully so that his brocaded sleeves didn’t drag felt almost obvious. Zuko spoke absently with a minor lord of one of the southern islands of his nation while keeping an eye on whatever Toph and Aang were up to in the corner, and conversation came not smoothly, but not stiltedly. Looking back at the first summit, that terrifying precipice of an opening day, he felt so old. Staring out at all the people he was responsible for, chatter washing peacefully around him and the portraits of all those Fire Lords hung up in a corridor just behind him, he felt young. 

Zuko caught a flare of green in the corner of his eye and made goodbyes to the minor lord just in time to bow a hello to Kuei and his retinue of secretaries and assistants. When they’d both straightened, Kuei clasped his forearms briefly in a more familiar greeting, looking tired from the day they’d spent at court, but pleased. Zuko had honestly been expecting him to come over earlier.

“It’s beautiful,” Kuei commented, sweeping an arm out at the room. Zuko wasn’t sure if he meant the palace or the people. “What an event you’ve put together! You know—”

“I wasn’t the one who decided Bosco couldn’t come,” Zuko interrupted, knowing where this was going. 

Kuei laughed airily as if that wasn’t what he’d been intending for even though it totally was. “Oh, sure! I’m not sure how I’d ship him out over here anyway. No, I was going to say, I think the transnational crimes legislature is going very well. Your representatives have done wonderful work.”

“Oh, ah.” Was he supposed to say thank you? “I’ll pass it on.”

There was something sparkling in Kuei’s eyes now that Zuko didn’t fully trust, although it could have just been the candlelight reflecting off his glasses. “It got me thinking about the catalyst for all that. The Blue Spirit and Li. How are they doing?”

“Oh.” Zuko blinked, feeling oddly like the conversation was tilting underneath him. “I’m—I’m not sure. I’m sure they’re all right.”

Kuei wasn’t quite looking at him anymore. He was adjusting his sleeves, arranging the way the hem laid over his wrist. “Oh, I’m sure they are,” he said, off-hand, “I’m only asking as I haven’t seen any of them in Ba Sing Se for some time. I have to admit, I’d grown a fondness for Li, given my time at the Jasmine Dragon. It’s really become a retreat for me. Your uncle brews a marvelous Oolong.” He looked out at the lords in their finery, the glistening tile floor. “And I’d like to apologize to the Spirit for the… misunderstanding. But they haven’t been around.”

“Right.” Zuko coughed into his hand, scrambling for a response. “Well, they both wanted to stay in the Fire Nation for a while. You know, keep close to home after the uh, ordeal.”

Kuei only nodded, still observing the sway and laughter of the hall, while Zuko stood there and felt like he was missing something again. After a moment, Kuei added, “And of course, apologize to you.”

“Me?” Zuko searched his mind for what Kuei could mean. “I mean, really, it was my ministers who caused the whole issue, and then the way the trial dragged on…”

But Kuei waved this away, laughing gently in a way that made Zuko feel embarrassed for some reason, like a child. “No, no. Your strange behavior then, the indecipherable messages and honestly baffling policy decisions—” (Zuko frowned) “—I understand completely, it all makes perfect sense. You don’t have to justify yourself to me. Really, I admire the valiance with which you protect those you… ah. Care for.”

Zuko was beginning to feel they weren’t on the same page. “Thank you?” he tried.

Kuei’s returning smile was bright and earnest. He reached for one of Zuko’s hands, which Zuko allowed him to take with wariness, and grasped it in both of his own, peering down into Zuko’s eyes through his glasses. “It’s rare,” he confided quietly, “when in our… unique position, to find something like that. To have someone you can trust and let into your life so completely. How wonderful, that you found two!”

Zuko was beginning to turn red. “Hang on,” he choked, hand still clasped in Kuei’s. 

“If either of them return to the Earth Kingdom, they’ll be treated as honored guests.” Kuei let go of Zuko’s hand, which was fantastic, then winked, which was horrifying. “With the Fire Lord’s personal favor. My whole government knows.” 

Zuko could only gape. He looked frantically around the hall of scattered Earth Kingdom representatives, which was starting to look a lot more hostile. Aang and Toph snorting in the corner began to seem directed at him, actually, and not at some elusive prank they were pulling. They noticed him looking and giggled harder. “Uh,” said Zuko, desperate. “They all…”

“Also,” Kuei added, almost as an afterthought, “I figured out why you never used any of my numerous awards in your addresses. And it’s because—no, no,” he started, cutting off Zuko’s protests, “I appreciate your humility here. It’s because you don’t find it appropriate to mention them, given they are an Earth Kingdom award, and not a Fire Nation award.”

“I know you’re rigging those competitions,” Zuko hissed.

“The only solution,” Kuei continued, a hand on his chin, as if he hadn’t heard, “is to add an equivalent award in the Fire Nation. Bears are such an under-appreciated species. They’re quite intelligent, you know. Bosco really should have been allowed to come to the summit, I don’t know why you didn’t allow him.”

“I didn’t decide that!”

“A thought for future events, perhaps.” Kuei’s eyes were definitely twinkling. They were more mischief than eye at this point. “I’m sure the Blue Spirit and Li would agree with me. You know you and Li share a certain resemblance. I never really got a good look at him—he was always ducking away from me when I visited—but your scars look oddly similar… no, you’re right,” he agreed, musing, as Zuko sputtered. “Your scar is clearly on the other side.”

Zuko’s whole face was red and screwed up, he could feel it. Kuei leaned in and patted Zuko’s arm a few times and Zuko almost keeled right over. Agni. What? The room was almost spinning.

“Well!” One last pat, and Kuei was gesturing at his retinue, cheerfully folding his sleeves over so he didn’t trip as he turned. “Fare wisely, good night, all that.  I’d love to find Lady Agent Beifong before the night is over. I have some questions about the reconstruction of my Tea Palace…?” 

Zuko pointed him in the still-chortling Toph’s direction. She shot him a dirty look and ducked away into the crowd while Kuei thanked him and they bowed their goodbyes. Kuei drifted off, and Zuko stood there, going over the conversation in his mind, and feeling more and more like somebody had hit him over the head with a large book, repeatedly. 

So that was what he’d been missing.

“Wow,” said his assistant, Zhong Zhong, who’d been hovering somewhere behind him with his own clump of secretaries and assistants. “That seemed intense.”

“Did he know the whole time?” asked Zuko, out loud. “Was he messing with me the whole time?”

“What’s that, Lord?”

“Nevermind, don't worry about it.” 

[A collection of headlines from the Caldera Chronicle, 12-20-103]

ARTS AND CULTURE

First “Bear” Awards Established in Fire Nation: A Sign of International Support?

By Liu Chen

Questions of bias may be irrelevant when there’s only one competitor.

“The Emperor, the Thief, and the Tea-Server” Closed After Unexpected Six Month Extension to Mixed Reviews

By Huang

The Ember Island Players’ “summer” musical ran its last performance this weekend, and it was certainly a spectacle. 

POLITICS

Trial Set in New Year for Royal Advisors Arrested on Basis of Treason

By An Yu

This trial will be the first test of transnational law, as determined during the Eighth Quadnation Summit.

MARRIAGES, OBITUARIES, & ADVERTISEMENTS

Talk about news! Journalists Lian He and An Yu married in a courthouse wedding.

[Picture attached]

—Paid for by family of the portrayed

INTERNATIONAL

Vigilantism in the Earth Kingdom; “Blue Spirit” Sighted in Shuhon During Summit

By Yuan Bo

While the Earth King’s away, the vigilantes will play. 

[Outgoing message]

If you’re going to use it, you should have the real thing. I think it was causing too much trouble for me anyway. 

Happy new year, Jet. 

[Enclosed is a paper-wrapped theater mask, carefully packaged and shipped to an address in Shuhon. No response received.]

Zuko,

You CAN’T still be wondering why I want to meet him.

Mai

Mai,

What does that mean!!!!

[Communication taken from the desk of the Fire Lord, 6-24-103 -- 12-20-103]