I approach the raised dais and bow as a show of respect and honor. The Fire Lord has a kind face and smiles at me — much different than what I had been expecting.

“Fire Lord Zuko. The Water Tribe has had several incidences of dark spirit attacks following the end of the Hundred Year War, due to the destruction of a sacred spiritual forest in the North Pole. We would ask that you send your most skilled firebenders to help defeat the dark spirits that plague us and restore our spiritual forest.”

The Fire Lord pauses for a moment as he takes in the information I am presenting him with. He stands suddenly and walks down the stairs of the dais, towering over me. He does what no one would expect — he bows to me.

“I will accompany you back to the North Pole and aid in this endeavor.”