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Deep Red (Avatar: The Last Airbender)
- Thread starter kosm
- Start date
- Location
- Oblivion
I was thinking the story over and had a realization.
Azula's playing Akane, she's playing Akane just like she played Mai and Ty'lee.
I would even bet dollars to donuts that Azula still has the original letter their mother sent to try and discredit Akane's parentage just in case.
Azula's playing Akane, she's playing Akane just like she played Mai and Ty'lee.
I would even bet dollars to donuts that Azula still has the original letter their mother sent to try and discredit Akane's parentage just in case.
Raiseth
I Find Your Lack of Memes Disturbing
- Location
- Russia
Ah, now you're starting to think
Even if she does, there's no point to worry about that now, I think.
Tyran
Blatant Product Placement (pro bono)
Azula's relationship with Akane is very different from her relationship with her friends.
Plus she never truly played them, but rather she imposed her will using fear. Canon Azula never truly understood positive emotions, so she couldn't use them to manipulate.
Plus she never truly played them, but rather she imposed her will using fear. Canon Azula never truly understood positive emotions, so she couldn't use them to manipulate.
- Location
- Where I need to be
Frankly I want Akane to say:
"I'm sorry I didn't love you enough."
Because its very true, and…
You know, to complete the parallels
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- Location
- Leeds
[X] Complete Akanes mental breakdown.Frankly I want Akane to say:
"I'm sorry I didn't love you enough."
Because its very true, and…
You know, to complete the parallels
Dew it.
RoninSword
Sky God
- Location
- Canada
Mitsuko was there with Azula when they created a second letter without the illigitimate child thing.
And then they brought Akane the real letter, let her read it, and then she burnt it.
- Location
- Oblivion
She wasn't however there when Azula first discovered the location of the letter.
RoninSword
Sky God
- Location
- Canada
Mitsuko had to go with Azula because Azula didn't have the skills to forge a copy herself. Unless you think Azula was lying about that.
- Location
- Oblivion
The series of events was.
Azula finds the letter, eventually goes and tells Akane where she found it, then Mitsuko and Azula eventually go back and take care of it.
The point where Azula could have stolen the original and replaced it with a fake is in the space between the first and the third part. As to Azula's skills, assuming Azula was truthful about them, you would have to keep in mind that unlike the long term replacement any fake Azula put in place wouldn't need to fool Fire Nation experts, only Akane and Mitsuko since Azula knew they were planning to burn the original.
Tyran
Blatant Product Placement (pro bono)
Akane simply cannot afford being paranoid of Azula. As one of the two pillars in Akane's life, without Azula Akane will slide even further into insanity.
And this does mean Akane currently exist at the mercy of Azula, that is the cost of opening your heart to someone. Ozai isn't completely full of shit, love can be a crippling weakness (but also can be a source of strength, love is high risk high reward).
And of course, love is not rational. Akane cannot simply not love Azula. Hell canon Zuko loves Azula and they were never close.
And this does mean Akane currently exist at the mercy of Azula, that is the cost of opening your heart to someone. Ozai isn't completely full of shit, love can be a crippling weakness (but also can be a source of strength, love is high risk high reward).
And of course, love is not rational. Akane cannot simply not love Azula. Hell canon Zuko loves Azula and they were never close.
- Location
- Oblivion
That "pillar" is already gone, because after shipping out the next time Akane is likely to see or even have a conversation with Azula will be when Ozai order's Azula to hunt down the Avatar.
And no, Ozai is not going to let any type of letter correspondence between the two occur.
RoninSword
Sky God
- Location
- Canada
You say that as if you are the author and know how the story is going to go. Not the best thing to do, presenting your idea as fact.
Tyran
Blatant Product Placement (pro bono)
Being paranoid of Azula is going to erode her mind fast.
And in addition, it is a pointless worry, Ozai can take Akane's right to the throne whenever he wants. He doesn't need a letter for that.
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- Location
- Massachusetts
We're going live tonight.
SuperSonicSound
Shadowmancer of the Shadow Cabal
Could you link to it? I can't seem to find the link :<
Edit: Never mind found it through the Patreon.
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Chapter 7: Over the Horizon (Part 3)
Hey all! Here's the results of tonight's live. Was pretty much just an infodumping session, but I hope it's alright. Thanks for reading!
-----
"We are to be deployed to the front in the northern Earth Kingdom, under General Endo," Hua begins.
Interesting. Endo is highly decorated - he's been a general for ages. Long enough that he fought alongside Uncle. He had enough sense to immediately declare his support of Fire Lord's Azulon's chosen successor after his death, though.
"This front has been mired in something of a stalemate for the past few months; it's a priority for the Earth Kingdom to defend, to prevent us from laying siege to Ba Sing Se again. The region's many mountains and rivers make it quite defensible terrain, especially for earthbenders. While attrition is taking its toll on their forces, their proximity to Ba Sing Se keeps them far better supplied and organized than most other Earth Kingdom armies." Hua pauses. "Please forgive me for repeating information you already know, Princess."
"I appreciate your perspective," you say diplomatically. "Please, continue."
She nods. "The General has provided a list of possible assignments for you," she says. "He will leave it up to your discretion to decide where your talents will be of the most use."
She points to the map. "The simplest assignment of those he's offered would be to put down a network of rebels operating behind our lines, near Gaipan. They're not a major threat, but their position could allow them to strike at facilities dedicated to the production of experimental weapons. Avoiding setbacks on that front is a high priority."
Experimental weapons - likely a reference to her father's drill project. If development succeeds, it could destroy Ba Sing Se's defenses without the aid of the Comet.
"What do we know about the rebels?" you ask.
"They're poorly armed - only a few even have swords. Most use bows and arrows. They have no blasting jelly or similar resources that we know of, and only a few earthbenders," Hua answers. "Their level of training appears to vary wildly, though they are likely attempting to fix that. They have few connections to the local natives; their network appears to be composed of people who have fled the destruction of other villages. Several of their fighters are apparently children."
Ah. "I see," you say.
Those children are waging a suicidal campaign; Gaipan is far enough from the front that they'll never survive for long. If they could be taken alive... well. It's unlikely.
"What other assignments are available?" you ask. "I'd like to hear every option before deciding."
"There are a number of other options on the front lines," Hua continues. She points to the front, between the mountains and the lake outside Ba Sing Se. "General Endo is leading from the front, and has offered to allow you to join him as one of his officers. You would be given a command position and would be under the personal tutelage of the General himself. The current objective of the forces there is simply to advance towards Ba Sing Se, eliminating whatever resistance is encountered. Most of the minor settlements in the region are to be cleared, while settlements that can provide a logistical advantage rather than drain will be secured and occupied."
Out of the corner of your eye, you see Mitsuko frown and open her mouth as if to ask a question. She catches herself before speaking, though.
Of course. She doesn't know that particular detail of Father's policies.
"Ideally, we will have reached as far east as the region north of the Serpent's Pass within the next year," Hua finishes.
You nod. "A very generous offer by the General," you say.
Placing you under his personal command tutelage is certainly quite the offer from General Endo - he's one of the most experienced commanders in the army. But it would require you to participate actively in Father's senseless destruction of the Earth Kingdom countryside.
"It is." Hua nods. "In light of your considerable personal skill, General Endo also believes you could be an effective member of our special forces operating on the front," she continues. "A small, elite team composed of the three of us and some of the General's soldiers could travel behind enemy lines to spread chaos and fear by targeting their infrastructure. Or, alternatively, we could specialize in the assassination of enemy officers. We would be provided with training in stealth to supplement our existing expertise in single combat, and then given targets to eliminate. There aren't many assassins who could kill an Earth Kingdom general if it came to single combat, but someone like you..."
You nod. "Indeed."
You could probably do it easily, if you had your firebending. Without it... it would be a far more difficult proposition. But killing exclusively enemy soldiers would be the most moral way to carry out your role in the war, wouldn't it?
If you had more power, the decision would be easy.
"Those are the main possibilities General Endo suggested," Hua finishes. "Can I answer any questions for you, your Highness?"
You look over the map as you think.
There are a number of rivers near the front, including some which lead all the way to the western and northwestern shores of the Earth Kingdom where the colonies are. Unless you're very much mistaken, naval superiority has largely been established in the waterways in the region. The river that leads closest to Ba Sing Se remains under Earth Kingdom control, though, due to a massive fortress built near the mouth.
"We have naval raiding parties operating in the region, correct?" you ask. "Is there a possibility of us working with them?"
"We may work with them for transportation and raiding efforts if we work in the special forces, yes," Hua answers.
"And what is the current composition of General Endo's forces?" you ask. "Both the special operatives and conventional forces. If I recall correctly, he had a team of earthbending rangers under his command, didn't he?"
"He does, your Highness," Hua says. "If we worked with special forces, we would undoubtedly coordinate with them. Other special forces operatives include both elite firebending soldiers and irregular mercenary units. The Rough Rhinos are the most accomplished of the irregular units, and have been operating in the region for some time. I have heard that they may move south soon, though."
You're familiar with them in passing. They're a small group of elite soldiers skilled in mounted combat with a variety of weapons; they often perform raids or assassinations behind enemy lines. Their talents wouldn't exactly be well-suited to fighting in the ongoing war against Omashu's army. The mountainous terrain around Omashu and the unconventional tactics of their army would make it unappealing to mercenaries - Omashu's army is too successful, it would be too much work for too few paydays. If they really are moving south anyways... well, maybe a merchant house is offering them a contract protecting new investments.
"And if we did choose to focus on assassination, did the General provide an estimate of how long our infiltration training would take?" you ask.
"He did not, though I would speculate that it would be something of a crash course," Hua says. "I don't want to presume, but I believe the General would like to have us deployed in some capacity as quickly as possible. With the comet less than two and a half years away, I doubt he'd want us to spend more than a few months in training before joining the fight."
You nod. "Understandable." You can only hope that's enough.
You turn your attention towards Gaipan. "Are there more details you can provide on these rebels?" you ask. "How entrenched are they? What have they done so far?"
"They're beginning to become somewhat entrenched in the region; they've been operating there for three months. Reports indicate that they were little more than a nuisance at first, so unfortunately few resources were allocated to eliminating them," Hua says. "In the past month, though, they've become significantly more disciplined. We believe they have a new leader - a very experienced Earth Kingdom terrorist known only by the name 'Onyx'. They've become more organized, and have begun successfully raiding some supply convoys. If Onyx's past actions are any indication, they'll begin to escalate dramatically once they've better armed and trained their forces. Onyx's strategy in the past has been to focus on raiding any nearby prisons to free more terrorists to aid him, and then prioritizing whatever Fire Nation military targets will cause the most harm to our war effort. We suspect he's a former Earth Kingdom officer, as he seems well-educated in strategy."
Interesting. Then he's very likely to figure out that the facilities working on the Drill are important. Minister Qin doesn't have any other significant projects in the region - you know most of the factories producing experimental new tank designs and experimental munitions are farther north - but the Drill is significant enough on its own. It's estimated that it will take at least a year and a half to complete; sabotage could well push back its completion date until after the Comet, and then all that work would be useless.
Her lip curls in distaste. "He also tends to target Fire Nation civilians when he can. To 'discourage colonists from taking Earth Kingdom land'. If he's not caught, we can expect civilian deaths."
"How difficult do you think it would be to catch him?" you ask.
"Well, I couldn't presume to present myself as an expert on guerrilla warfare," Hua says, "But I believe that if we make this a priority, we can nip his organization in the bud. Their position in the region isn't well established yet. Onyx is an extremely experienced terrorist, and I would never want to underestimate him, but if we act quickly he could be caught while still poorly armed and poorly trained. Of course, the forces in the region will already be prioritizing the defeat of his rebels, so your personal intervention isn't necessarily needed."
"Of course. Thank you for your briefing, Lady Qin," you say. "I will have to consider where we can be most useful."
She nods. "I will be at your disposal if you have any further questions, your Highness. I will make it a priority to keep myself informed on everything that could be relevant to your work."
"I am glad to have your assistance," you tell her.
"I am honored to provide it."
From the far end of the room, Father finally speaks. "Your briefing has been adequate, Qin. I will speak to my daughter alone, now."
The dismissal is clear. Hua immediately stands and bows deeply to Father; Mitsuko is only a half second behind her. They both leave without another word, though you suspect Mitsuko lingers outside the room.
You take a steadying breath.
"You've heard your options," Father says neutrally. "Tell me - what is your first impression? What strikes you as the most appealing?"
"My first instinct is to focus on putting down the rebels, Father," you answer. "Taking a command position under General Endo's tutelage is a very appealing offer, certainly, but I believe the rebels should be dealt with first. They appear to be a problem that can be handled relatively easily now, but which will fester if not prioritized."
"And you hope to personally ensure some of the rebel children are taken alive, I'm sure," Father says bluntly.
Evasion won't satisfy him. It's probable that nothing will, but you'll have to do what you can.
"I do, Father," you return, your tone polite. "It is likely that some may fight to the death, but I certainly hope others will prove more pliable. If they could be reeducated to serve our Nation, it would be a greater victory than simply killing them."
"But is that logic all that drives you?" Father asks. "Or are you still making excuses to yourself? When the time comes and you are faced with an enemy who is not pliable, will you strike without hesitation? Remember, Akane, it is your actions that will prove your true strength. Or weakness. Telling yourself lies will do you far more harm than lying to me ever will."
Your hands want to knot into fists; you keep them still. "I understand, Father."
Father stands and walks forward, slowly circling the table as he continues to speak.
"I am not oblivious to your anger, Akane," Father says. You keep yourself still, your expression neutral. "You should not be surprised," he continues. "Do not forget, Akane, I am your father. I know you, better than anyone. There is no one who understands your mind as well as I do, including you."
Oh, of course not, which explains why he thought trying to have you burn your sister and scar Zuko was a good idea.
"Do you think that Zuko understands your actions?" Father asks as he circles. "Of course not. Do you think Iroh does? Why would he leave, if he still had sympathy for you?"
Does he think you don't know who Uncle's favorite child is? How is this relevant?
"Do you think Azula understands you?" Father asks. You stiffen. "I have no doubt she believes you scarred your brother as a show of loyalty to her rather than disdain for him. She sees you as an ideal, not a reality. She sees only the ruler you could be, should be, and not the child you still are."
Azula was smiling when you burned Zuko.
Father comes to a halt next to you. You are blanketed in his shadow.
"I see the ruler you could be as well, Akane," he says. "But I do not have the luxury of being oblivious to your faults. It is my duty to correct them. And as such, when I question your resolve, you would do well to take my questions to heart and ensure that you truly are as prepared as you say you are. I would not have given you this assignment if I had no desire to see you prove yourself."
You don't know what to say. What does that even mean? He gave you this assignment as a punishment, explicitly as a punishment, he can't act like he's just doing all of this to help you, not after everything he's done to you and made you do!
Father turns away.
"Tell me, Akane," he asks. "If I were to die tomorrow, how would you attempt to complete our nation's march of civilization?"
What the hell?
"Do not mince words," he says. "I believe we should be well past the point of you hiding your thoughts behind excuses."
"I would bring the war to a swift and victorious end, of course," you begin slowly. You have no idea where Father is going with this, but you're certain it's going to end with him berating you. "That much is effectively predetermined. The war will be won with the Comet's arrival."
Father nods and waves his hand dismissively. "The question is what will happen after," he says.
"I agree. We must achieve unity, and keep it indefinitely."
"How?"
"I would focus on attempting to uplift the Earth Kingdom to the Fire Nation's level of advancement, our culture, and our standard of living," you answer. "If the masses see improvement in their day-to-day lives, they will not choose to sacrifice their lives in pursuit of some vague ideal of independence."
"Really?" Father asks. "You would elevate the entire Earth Kingdom to the standard of living we enjoy in the Fire Nation?"
He is about to tear into you and now it's too late to reconsider your answer. "That would be my goal, Father, yes."
Father gestures to the map.
"How large is the Earth Kingdom, Akane?"
He's going to call your ideas naive and unrealistic. "Several times the size of the homeland, Father."
"And how much of it is already industrialized?"
Just get to the point. "Only our colonies, Father."
"So the vast majority of the Earth Kingdom's territory is rural backwater?"
You already know his point, and if he knows you as well as he says he does he knows that you know his point. "Yes, Father."
"I agree that we must look to the future, Akane," he says. "And I would encourage you to do so. Do you understand the magnitude of the occupation we will have to maintain? Do you understand the logistical burden we will face after the war has ended?" He gestures sharply at the map. "We have the industrial power to rapidly modernize the more passable settlements in the Earth Kingdom, yes. Omashu, once it is taken, has the resources and position to swiftly become an industrial center. Ba Sing Se, that behemoth, could become a commercial giant after being modernized, if it is intact after the Comet. We have the resources to make this happen; we can build an industrial base in the Earth Kingdom, and will need to do so in order to sustain the growth of our economy. But these efforts and their benefits will be centered in the larger settlements. And of course it is the backwaters in the countryside that will be the center of any guerrilla warfare that continues after the Earth Kingdom's government has fallen"
He folds his arms and glowers down at you. Here it comes.
"So unless I am very much mistaken," he continues. "Your 'plan' for building a lasting empire requires not only that we build up industrial centers in the Earth Kingdom, but also that we elevate every single backwater village on that entire continent to the standard of living of the homeland - and not only that, but that we elevate them so quickly and so dramatically that it allows us to undercut any desire for rebellion the natives might hold after one hundred years of war! And that we produce the manpower and the resources to do this while also maintaining the military occupation of the entire continent and refraining from making use of the natives for unpaid labor, and that we keep our own citizens content while making this extravagant investment in the well-being of the savages! Do you understand why I must continue to challenge your naivety, Akane? Do you see why I consider your vision lacking? Is this truly the best plan you have to offer our Nation?"
----
I stopped mid-conversation here for tonight because it was getting late, sorry. DX Write-ins are open on the fiction.live page for people to make suggestions for Akane's thoughts/responses! Please be aware that the decisions made here aren't binding yet - this is just a conversation with Ozai. The final choice on Akane's assignment will be made later. Thank you all for reading!
-----
"We are to be deployed to the front in the northern Earth Kingdom, under General Endo," Hua begins.
Interesting. Endo is highly decorated - he's been a general for ages. Long enough that he fought alongside Uncle. He had enough sense to immediately declare his support of Fire Lord's Azulon's chosen successor after his death, though.
"This front has been mired in something of a stalemate for the past few months; it's a priority for the Earth Kingdom to defend, to prevent us from laying siege to Ba Sing Se again. The region's many mountains and rivers make it quite defensible terrain, especially for earthbenders. While attrition is taking its toll on their forces, their proximity to Ba Sing Se keeps them far better supplied and organized than most other Earth Kingdom armies." Hua pauses. "Please forgive me for repeating information you already know, Princess."
"I appreciate your perspective," you say diplomatically. "Please, continue."
She nods. "The General has provided a list of possible assignments for you," she says. "He will leave it up to your discretion to decide where your talents will be of the most use."
She points to the map. "The simplest assignment of those he's offered would be to put down a network of rebels operating behind our lines, near Gaipan. They're not a major threat, but their position could allow them to strike at facilities dedicated to the production of experimental weapons. Avoiding setbacks on that front is a high priority."
Experimental weapons - likely a reference to her father's drill project. If development succeeds, it could destroy Ba Sing Se's defenses without the aid of the Comet.
"What do we know about the rebels?" you ask.
"They're poorly armed - only a few even have swords. Most use bows and arrows. They have no blasting jelly or similar resources that we know of, and only a few earthbenders," Hua answers. "Their level of training appears to vary wildly, though they are likely attempting to fix that. They have few connections to the local natives; their network appears to be composed of people who have fled the destruction of other villages. Several of their fighters are apparently children."
Ah. "I see," you say.
Those children are waging a suicidal campaign; Gaipan is far enough from the front that they'll never survive for long. If they could be taken alive... well. It's unlikely.
"What other assignments are available?" you ask. "I'd like to hear every option before deciding."
"There are a number of other options on the front lines," Hua continues. She points to the front, between the mountains and the lake outside Ba Sing Se. "General Endo is leading from the front, and has offered to allow you to join him as one of his officers. You would be given a command position and would be under the personal tutelage of the General himself. The current objective of the forces there is simply to advance towards Ba Sing Se, eliminating whatever resistance is encountered. Most of the minor settlements in the region are to be cleared, while settlements that can provide a logistical advantage rather than drain will be secured and occupied."
Out of the corner of your eye, you see Mitsuko frown and open her mouth as if to ask a question. She catches herself before speaking, though.
Of course. She doesn't know that particular detail of Father's policies.
"Ideally, we will have reached as far east as the region north of the Serpent's Pass within the next year," Hua finishes.
You nod. "A very generous offer by the General," you say.
Placing you under his personal command tutelage is certainly quite the offer from General Endo - he's one of the most experienced commanders in the army. But it would require you to participate actively in Father's senseless destruction of the Earth Kingdom countryside.
"It is." Hua nods. "In light of your considerable personal skill, General Endo also believes you could be an effective member of our special forces operating on the front," she continues. "A small, elite team composed of the three of us and some of the General's soldiers could travel behind enemy lines to spread chaos and fear by targeting their infrastructure. Or, alternatively, we could specialize in the assassination of enemy officers. We would be provided with training in stealth to supplement our existing expertise in single combat, and then given targets to eliminate. There aren't many assassins who could kill an Earth Kingdom general if it came to single combat, but someone like you..."
You nod. "Indeed."
You could probably do it easily, if you had your firebending. Without it... it would be a far more difficult proposition. But killing exclusively enemy soldiers would be the most moral way to carry out your role in the war, wouldn't it?
If you had more power, the decision would be easy.
"Those are the main possibilities General Endo suggested," Hua finishes. "Can I answer any questions for you, your Highness?"
Hmmm. What of the northern and western regions of the EK? Do we have any significant forces in those regions, or are they relatively untouched by our campaigns? Also, about these experimental weapons you speak of - are they just the Drill project, or are there more devices in development in addition to the Drill? Finally, what is the status of our campaigns in the Southern EK, around Omashu and other such cities.
How many White Lotus agents are in this area?
How many Old People are in the army?
*musing* How hidden or active are those rebels? Could I find and deal with them in short order, then take one of the other two assignments?
You mentioned a large number of rivers in the area. Do we have a riverine force patrolling them? They could be used as highly effective supply routes, both by us and the enemy.
What can I expect from the other soldiers in the elite team? Yu Dao Earthbenders, Yuyan archers, firebenders?
How would we fit in the command structure of the army?
how long would training take?
How many White Lotus agents are in this area?
How many Old People are in the army?
*musing* How hidden or active are those rebels? Could I find and deal with them in short order, then take one of the other two assignments?
You mentioned a large number of rivers in the area. Do we have a riverine force patrolling them? They could be used as highly effective supply routes, both by us and the enemy.
What can I expect from the other soldiers in the elite team? Yu Dao Earthbenders, Yuyan archers, firebenders?
How would we fit in the command structure of the army?
how long would training take?
You look over the map as you think.
There are a number of rivers near the front, including some which lead all the way to the western and northwestern shores of the Earth Kingdom where the colonies are. Unless you're very much mistaken, naval superiority has largely been established in the waterways in the region. The river that leads closest to Ba Sing Se remains under Earth Kingdom control, though, due to a massive fortress built near the mouth.
"We have naval raiding parties operating in the region, correct?" you ask. "Is there a possibility of us working with them?"
"We may work with them for transportation and raiding efforts if we work in the special forces, yes," Hua answers.
"And what is the current composition of General Endo's forces?" you ask. "Both the special operatives and conventional forces. If I recall correctly, he had a team of earthbending rangers under his command, didn't he?"
"He does, your Highness," Hua says. "If we worked with special forces, we would undoubtedly coordinate with them. Other special forces operatives include both elite firebending soldiers and irregular mercenary units. The Rough Rhinos are the most accomplished of the irregular units, and have been operating in the region for some time. I have heard that they may move south soon, though."
You're familiar with them in passing. They're a small group of elite soldiers skilled in mounted combat with a variety of weapons; they often perform raids or assassinations behind enemy lines. Their talents wouldn't exactly be well-suited to fighting in the ongoing war against Omashu's army. The mountainous terrain around Omashu and the unconventional tactics of their army would make it unappealing to mercenaries - Omashu's army is too successful, it would be too much work for too few paydays. If they really are moving south anyways... well, maybe a merchant house is offering them a contract protecting new investments.
"And if we did choose to focus on assassination, did the General provide an estimate of how long our infiltration training would take?" you ask.
"He did not, though I would speculate that it would be something of a crash course," Hua says. "I don't want to presume, but I believe the General would like to have us deployed in some capacity as quickly as possible. With the comet less than two and a half years away, I doubt he'd want us to spend more than a few months in training before joining the fight."
You nod. "Understandable." You can only hope that's enough.
You turn your attention towards Gaipan. "Are there more details you can provide on these rebels?" you ask. "How entrenched are they? What have they done so far?"
"They're beginning to become somewhat entrenched in the region; they've been operating there for three months. Reports indicate that they were little more than a nuisance at first, so unfortunately few resources were allocated to eliminating them," Hua says. "In the past month, though, they've become significantly more disciplined. We believe they have a new leader - a very experienced Earth Kingdom terrorist known only by the name 'Onyx'. They've become more organized, and have begun successfully raiding some supply convoys. If Onyx's past actions are any indication, they'll begin to escalate dramatically once they've better armed and trained their forces. Onyx's strategy in the past has been to focus on raiding any nearby prisons to free more terrorists to aid him, and then prioritizing whatever Fire Nation military targets will cause the most harm to our war effort. We suspect he's a former Earth Kingdom officer, as he seems well-educated in strategy."
Interesting. Then he's very likely to figure out that the facilities working on the Drill are important. Minister Qin doesn't have any other significant projects in the region - you know most of the factories producing experimental new tank designs and experimental munitions are farther north - but the Drill is significant enough on its own. It's estimated that it will take at least a year and a half to complete; sabotage could well push back its completion date until after the Comet, and then all that work would be useless.
Her lip curls in distaste. "He also tends to target Fire Nation civilians when he can. To 'discourage colonists from taking Earth Kingdom land'. If he's not caught, we can expect civilian deaths."
"How difficult do you think it would be to catch him?" you ask.
"Well, I couldn't presume to present myself as an expert on guerrilla warfare," Hua says, "But I believe that if we make this a priority, we can nip his organization in the bud. Their position in the region isn't well established yet. Onyx is an extremely experienced terrorist, and I would never want to underestimate him, but if we act quickly he could be caught while still poorly armed and poorly trained. Of course, the forces in the region will already be prioritizing the defeat of his rebels, so your personal intervention isn't necessarily needed."
"Of course. Thank you for your briefing, Lady Qin," you say. "I will have to consider where we can be most useful."
She nods. "I will be at your disposal if you have any further questions, your Highness. I will make it a priority to keep myself informed on everything that could be relevant to your work."
"I am glad to have your assistance," you tell her.
"I am honored to provide it."
From the far end of the room, Father finally speaks. "Your briefing has been adequate, Qin. I will speak to my daughter alone, now."
The dismissal is clear. Hua immediately stands and bows deeply to Father; Mitsuko is only a half second behind her. They both leave without another word, though you suspect Mitsuko lingers outside the room.
You take a steadying breath.
"You've heard your options," Father says neutrally. "Tell me - what is your first impression? What strikes you as the most appealing?"
Putting down the rebels. (19)
+ We should definitely consider taking a leadership position later on once Endo and his forces get closer to Ba Sing Se - the strategic and tactical training he can provide will be invaluable. However, that should come later. (15)
Assassinating enemy officers. (7)
Taking a leadership position. (3)
Sowing chaos in the Earth Kingdom. (2)
+ We should definitely consider taking a leadership position later on once Endo and his forces get closer to Ba Sing Se - the strategic and tactical training he can provide will be invaluable. However, that should come later. (15)
Assassinating enemy officers. (7)
Taking a leadership position. (3)
Sowing chaos in the Earth Kingdom. (2)
"My first instinct is to focus on putting down the rebels, Father," you answer. "Taking a command position under General Endo's tutelage is a very appealing offer, certainly, but I believe the rebels should be dealt with first. They appear to be a problem that can be handled relatively easily now, but which will fester if not prioritized."
"And you hope to personally ensure some of the rebel children are taken alive, I'm sure," Father says bluntly.
Say yes. There's no reason to kill children that can be reeducated. (23)
+ Live children, specially bending capable children, are a valuable resource. If they can be reeducated into serving the Firenation, we deny our enemies their services and increase our power in the mean time. (19)
+"It is likely that some of them will fight to the death, but others might be more pliable." (14)
Say no. While you're all for reformation of your subjects, outright rebellion needs to be dealt with harshly. (1)
Say nothing. No answer you can give will satisfy him. (0)
Say no. You are indifferent. (0)
+ Live children, specially bending capable children, are a valuable resource. If they can be reeducated into serving the Firenation, we deny our enemies their services and increase our power in the mean time. (19)
+"It is likely that some of them will fight to the death, but others might be more pliable." (14)
Say no. While you're all for reformation of your subjects, outright rebellion needs to be dealt with harshly. (1)
Say nothing. No answer you can give will satisfy him. (0)
Say no. You are indifferent. (0)
Evasion won't satisfy him. It's probable that nothing will, but you'll have to do what you can.
"I do, Father," you return, your tone polite. "It is likely that some may fight to the death, but I certainly hope others will prove more pliable. If they could be reeducated to serve our Nation, it would be a greater victory than simply killing them."
"But is that logic all that drives you?" Father asks. "Or are you still making excuses to yourself? When the time comes and you are faced with an enemy who is not pliable, will you strike without hesitation? Remember, Akane, it is your actions that will prove your true strength. Or weakness. Telling yourself lies will do you far more harm than lying to me ever will."
Your hands want to knot into fists; you keep them still. "I understand, Father."
Father stands and walks forward, slowly circling the table as he continues to speak.
"I am not oblivious to your anger, Akane," Father says. You keep yourself still, your expression neutral. "You should not be surprised," he continues. "Do not forget, Akane, I am your father. I know you, better than anyone. There is no one who understands your mind as well as I do, including you."
Oh, of course not, which explains why he thought trying to have you burn your sister and scar Zuko was a good idea.
"Do you think that Zuko understands your actions?" Father asks as he circles. "Of course not. Do you think Iroh does? Why would he leave, if he still had sympathy for you?"
Does he think you don't know who Uncle's favorite child is? How is this relevant?
"Do you think Azula understands you?" Father asks. You stiffen. "I have no doubt she believes you scarred your brother as a show of loyalty to her rather than disdain for him. She sees you as an ideal, not a reality. She sees only the ruler you could be, should be, and not the child you still are."
Azula was smiling when you burned Zuko.
Father comes to a halt next to you. You are blanketed in his shadow.
"I see the ruler you could be as well, Akane," he says. "But I do not have the luxury of being oblivious to your faults. It is my duty to correct them. And as such, when I question your resolve, you would do well to take my questions to heart and ensure that you truly are as prepared as you say you are. I would not have given you this assignment if I had no desire to see you prove yourself."
You don't know what to say. What does that even mean? He gave you this assignment as a punishment, explicitly as a punishment, he can't act like he's just doing all of this to help you, not after everything he's done to you and made you do!
Father turns away.
"Tell me, Akane," he asks. "If I were to die tomorrow, how would you attempt to complete our nation's march of civilization?"
What the hell?
"Do not mince words," he says. "I believe we should be well past the point of you hiding your thoughts behind excuses."
You would bring the war to a swift end, using the comet or otherwise, and would attempt to uplift the Earth Kingdom to the Fire Nation's level of advancement. Doing so would likely win the loyalty of the masses and allow for secure, peaceful integration of the new territory. (27)
+Unity needs not just to be achieved, but kept for all time. Short term gains must be weighed against their eventual cost. (22)
You would continue Father's policies, bringing the war to a swift end while eliminating anything in the Earth Kingdom that was not an asset to the Fire Nation. You would break their ability to resist, even if their will stayed intact. (1)
+Unity needs not just to be achieved, but kept for all time. Short term gains must be weighed against their eventual cost. (22)
You would continue Father's policies, bringing the war to a swift end while eliminating anything in the Earth Kingdom that was not an asset to the Fire Nation. You would break their ability to resist, even if their will stayed intact. (1)
"I would bring the war to a swift and victorious end, of course," you begin slowly. You have no idea where Father is going with this, but you're certain it's going to end with him berating you. "That much is effectively predetermined. The war will be won with the Comet's arrival."
Father nods and waves his hand dismissively. "The question is what will happen after," he says.
"I agree. We must achieve unity, and keep it indefinitely."
"How?"
"I would focus on attempting to uplift the Earth Kingdom to the Fire Nation's level of advancement, our culture, and our standard of living," you answer. "If the masses see improvement in their day-to-day lives, they will not choose to sacrifice their lives in pursuit of some vague ideal of independence."
"Really?" Father asks. "You would elevate the entire Earth Kingdom to the standard of living we enjoy in the Fire Nation?"
He is about to tear into you and now it's too late to reconsider your answer. "That would be my goal, Father, yes."
Father gestures to the map.
"How large is the Earth Kingdom, Akane?"
He's going to call your ideas naive and unrealistic. "Several times the size of the homeland, Father."
"And how much of it is already industrialized?"
Just get to the point. "Only our colonies, Father."
"So the vast majority of the Earth Kingdom's territory is rural backwater?"
You already know his point, and if he knows you as well as he says he does he knows that you know his point. "Yes, Father."
"I agree that we must look to the future, Akane," he says. "And I would encourage you to do so. Do you understand the magnitude of the occupation we will have to maintain? Do you understand the logistical burden we will face after the war has ended?" He gestures sharply at the map. "We have the industrial power to rapidly modernize the more passable settlements in the Earth Kingdom, yes. Omashu, once it is taken, has the resources and position to swiftly become an industrial center. Ba Sing Se, that behemoth, could become a commercial giant after being modernized, if it is intact after the Comet. We have the resources to make this happen; we can build an industrial base in the Earth Kingdom, and will need to do so in order to sustain the growth of our economy. But these efforts and their benefits will be centered in the larger settlements. And of course it is the backwaters in the countryside that will be the center of any guerrilla warfare that continues after the Earth Kingdom's government has fallen"
He folds his arms and glowers down at you. Here it comes.
"So unless I am very much mistaken," he continues. "Your 'plan' for building a lasting empire requires not only that we build up industrial centers in the Earth Kingdom, but also that we elevate every single backwater village on that entire continent to the standard of living of the homeland - and not only that, but that we elevate them so quickly and so dramatically that it allows us to undercut any desire for rebellion the natives might hold after one hundred years of war! And that we produce the manpower and the resources to do this while also maintaining the military occupation of the entire continent and refraining from making use of the natives for unpaid labor, and that we keep our own citizens content while making this extravagant investment in the well-being of the savages! Do you understand why I must continue to challenge your naivety, Akane? Do you see why I consider your vision lacking? Is this truly the best plan you have to offer our Nation?"
----
I stopped mid-conversation here for tonight because it was getting late, sorry. DX Write-ins are open on the fiction.live page for people to make suggestions for Akane's thoughts/responses! Please be aware that the decisions made here aren't binding yet - this is just a conversation with Ozai. The final choice on Akane's assignment will be made later. Thank you all for reading!
- Pronouns
- she/her
The entire setup with the rebels sounds like its bait to maximize Ozai's opportunities to screw with Akane while she's supposed to be earning the respect of the troops.
- Location
- The Library
Yes, Yes, Yes ......
Akane, and by extension the voters, are so blinded by Ozai evil, that they won't learn from the lessons he's teaching. He's a terrible human being, but there's a reason he's the Firelord.
But we're learning, eventually, it'll be painful, but we shall learn.
- Location
- in the trash
Shockingly, trying to annex a country several times your size is what is known as "a bad idea" and "a good way to overextend yourself".
Obviously the Fire Nation was never going to be able to modernize the Earth Kingdom, but that doesn't mean blatant exploitation and imperialism is the correct policy either.
Obviously the Fire Nation was never going to be able to modernize the Earth Kingdom, but that doesn't mean blatant exploitation and imperialism is the correct policy either.
Pretty much.
And Ozai's policies are going to pan out even worse than Akane's "idealism", if anything.
Hell, it's pretty much this realization (and his categorical inability to accept that is his philosophy is bugfuck stupid), that led to him going with the even more insane notion of: "Maybe we should just incinerate as much of the continent as we can, because that certainly won't end poorly."
Ultimately, Akane's real dilemma here stems from the fact that Fire Nation philosophy is terrible and incompatible with ending the war already, the only sensible decision even from an imperialistic perspective.
Even significantly less effective strategies like using the comet to either destroy or seize hard to take centers of resistance and then properly building up and integrating territory already taken for the next few decades, while occasionally disrupting what was formerly known as the Earth Kingdom with military adventurism, are incredibly hamstrung by them still requiring to admit that the Fire Nation ideal of absolute and unquestionable victory is a childish pipe dream.
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