Azula, Flames Of Change

Chapter 35: The avatar is the problem

As Chief Siku led the group deeper into the city, the tension among them grew palpable. The sprawling settlement was unlike anything they had expected to find in a remote Water Tribe village. What had once been a modest collection of ice huts had transformed into something far grander—lush greenery now grew from the frozen soil, the beginnings of stone buildings rose from the ground, and the rhythmic sounds of construction filled the air. Water Tribe citizens, once isolated and proud, worked alongside firebenders and earthbenders, reshaping their world.

Pakku and Arnook exchanged troubled looks. This wasn't the Water Tribe they knew.

"This... isn't right," Pakku muttered, his eyes narrowing at the sight of firebenders among the tribe members. His fists clenched. "This is not how we live. We're supposed to be independent, self-reliant."

Arnook shook his head in disbelief. "How could they allow this? Fire Nation soldiers, benders from other nations... It's as if everything we've stood for is being torn down, stone by stone."

Aang walked alongside them, a heavy weight settling deeper in his chest with every step. The peaceful coexistence he had always hoped to foster between the nations felt twisted here. This settlement was thriving, yes—but at what cost? The people seemed happy, loyal to Azula's vision, and that, more than anything, unsettled him. How could a world shaped by Azula offer anything other than suffering?

When they reached the center of the city, they were met with the unexpected sight of a high-ranking Fire Nation official. He stood confidently in the midst of the construction, clad in dark red armor, barking orders with ease. Workers—both benders and non-benders—obeyed without hesitation. His presence alone seemed to represent the control Azula had over this place. The mere sight of him caused Aang's heart to sink.

"We need to talk to him," Zuko said quietly, though there was no mistaking the tension in his voice. His internal battle had only grown fiercer since arriving here.

As the group approached, the Fire Nation general turned, his stern expression softening when he recognized them. "Well, well. The Avatar. Prince Zuko. What a pleasant surprise."

Zuko's voice was tight, controlled. "Who are you, and what is the Fire Nation doing here?"

The general raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement playing at his lips. "My name is General Ryo. I'm overseeing the construction of this settlement on behalf of Fire Lord Azula."

Sokka stepped forward, his distrust clear in his furrowed brow. "So you're just here to take over? You expect us to believe this is some kind of 'help'?"

Ryo let out a soft laugh, shaking his head. "Take over? No. We're here because we were asked to be. We've provided resources—food, supplies, and knowledge they've never had access to before. We're helping them rebuild. This is what cooperation looks like."

Katara's eyes flared with anger. "Cooperation? You mean submission. These people have been forced into this."

Ryo met her gaze without flinching, his voice calm and measured. "No one is being forced into anything. The people here choose to work with us because they see the benefits. The isolation of the Water Tribes left them vulnerable. We're offering them a future."

Zuko's fists clenched at his sides, his voice straining with disbelief. "And they trust you? They trust Azula?"

Ryo nodded, unfazed. "They do. Azula has delivered on her promises. She's given them stability, resources, and the chance to prosper in ways they never imagined. That's why they trust her."

Aang felt his heart race as he looked around. The people didn't look oppressed; they were smiling, working alongside firebenders and earthbenders. It was the opposite of what he had expected to find—there were no signs of fear or rebellion. Everything here seemed to be thriving under Azula's rule.