A/N: I have no idea if someone else has written an AU with this premise. If anyone knows a story where this happens please tell me so I can avoid using anything someone else has already done.

Prologue: The Perfect Prince

"Let me in."

"Prince Zuko, what's wrong?"

"I want to go into the war chamber but the guard won't let me pass," Zuko said.

"You're not missing anything, trust me," Iroh said. "These meetings are dreadfully boring."

"If I'm going to rule this nation one day, don't you think I need to start learning as much as I can?" Zuko asked.

"Very well," Iroh said. "But you must promise not to speak. These old folks are a bit sensitive."

"Thank you uncle," Zuko said.

General Iroh led Prince Zuko into the war chamber and the guards let them pass. True to his word Zuko stayed silent, listening and learning from the generals. This was good experience for when he would have to develop his own war strategies in the future. But then one of the generals devised a plan that Zuko didn't want to hear.

"The Earth Kingdom defenses are concentrated here," the general explained. "A dangerous battalion of their strongest earthbenders and fiercest warriors. So I am recommending the 41st division."

Another general questioned this course of action. "But the 41st is entirely new recruits. How do you expect them to defeat a powerful Earth Kingdom battalion?"

"I don't," the first general said. "They will be used as a distraction while we mount an attack from the rear. What better to use as bait than fresh meat."

He's going to sacrifice an entire division! Zuko thought. He was about to object to the general's plan, but Iroh placed his hand on Zuko's shoulder. Zuko remembered his promise not to speak, and kept his mouth shut. He let the general continue with his plan, knowing that those recruits weren't going to come back alive.

After the war meeting ended Zuko practiced his firebending to vent his frustration regarding the general. He practiced until he was exhausted, and then practiced some more. When he was finished he cleaned himself up and tried to relax near the turtleduck pond. He didn't notice his father approach from behind.

"Well done Prince Zuko," Fire Lord Ozai said.

Zuko turned to face his father. "But I didn't do anything," he said.

"Exactly," Ozai said. "You didn't let your emotions drive your actions today. You showed respect, without needing to be taught through suffering."

"Was the general's plan, just a test?" Zuko asked.

"Yes," Ozai said. "If you are going to become Fire Lord one day, you need to know when to show respect and when others need to be taught it. Your respect today has brought you one step closer to being the perfect prince."

"Thank you father," Zuko said.