A/N: In "Zuko Alone" we finally learn that Iroh had been in line to become Fire Lord. The was written in response to a challenge prompt on TheAvatar100 community.

Disclaimer: Avatar: The Last Air-bender. Don't own it, can't claim it.

"It was his dying wish."

And Iroh had abided by his father's wishes his entire life. His father's will was law.

Iroh married the woman his father chose, although she suited him ill.

He took his place in command of his father's armies, although he would have preferred to study music.

He cut a swath through the Earth Kingdom so fierce as to earn a new title, his country's admiration, and his father's approval. He would have liked to pause to admire the architecture, sample the wines, and love the women. But his father's will was law.

In time, he could follow his own will. In time.

And he brought his own son in the army, for he too must learn what it meant to lead.

But Lu Ten fell. The Spirit World beckoned. And Iroh returned a changed man.

To find his brother Ozai's will was law.