Brave Soldier Boy

Iroh and Zuko sat on a blanket atop a hill in the Spirit World, a picnic basket between them. One tree grew out of the crest of the hill, its branches above them, a framed picture and some incense burning beneath it.

“My curiosity is sated and I have helped those I could. Even in this place, I feel my age. I mean, look at you! You are one-hundred-and-three! That makes me almost two-hundred years old!” At that a small smile grew on Iroh’s face and he chuckled, then paused. Tears trickled down his cheeks. Zuko reached one hand out to brush them away. “I just… I just needed to say goodbye to you one last time, Nephew. I am ready to move on to my next journey. I am ready to be surprised again.” He leaned forward to hold both sides of Zuko’s face in his palms. “I have been so proud to be your uncle.” With Zuko’s hand still gently on his cheek, Iroh’s body faded until all Zuko could see were his tears, which turned to motes of energy and floated away on a warm breeze. He could feel his own tears fall over his scar, wetting his cheeks and his long, white beard.

On his way home, Zuko visited his daughter and her children at the palace. Then he flew on Druk back to his cottage. Druk went to his cave in the volcano and Zuko made himself some tea. He felt tired, so he laid down. On his bedside table were several picture frames. He smiled at them.

There were nine picture frames, to be exact. In them were; Uncle Iroh; Lu Ten; Ursa; Azula; Kiyi; Mae; and Izumi; one with his grandchildren Iroh and Ursa; and and one with his friends, Katara, Aang, Sokka, Toph, and Zuko himself.