Note from the Author: I understand that this plot has been used many a time before, but the I believe that the same story can never be written twice. Also, I've got a rough outline of where I want the story to go, but I would greatly appreciate any comments or advice anyone can give too move the story a long, like little side-stories maybe? Anyway, you'll see. I hope you enjoy!

The Confrontation

"Why are you really here?" Ozai asked sparing a pitiful side glance at the young fire lord that was his son.

"Because I want you to answer something:" He paused, "Where is my mother?" Zuko ended, his eyes burning in intensity as he faced the pathetic short-lived 'Phoenix King', his father.

His father's scowl turned into a grimace, then a grin. First came a guffaw, then a chuckle and a sneer.

"Your mother? Haha, I remember. Your mother's done some terrible things, Zuko. I've told you that before. She's betrayed the Fire Nation and you still want to look for her?"

"You told me she's alive. And she only betrayed the Fire Nation because of your shamelessness. Now, I know you know where she is and right now, you are at my mercy and you don't exactly have the liberty to disregard my questions."

Ozai raised his chin to observe his son carefully. "You know Zuko, I think I misjudged you, thinking you a weakling and a disgrace in comparison to your sister. Go on then, use your fire bending on me, I'm helpless now. Maybe then you'll be able to prove your worth as the New Fire Lord."

"I don't need to prove anything to you, and frankly, I couldn't care less whether or not you continue living. It's just that this way, you will tell me where my mother is. What more do you have to loose, furthermore, what could you possibly gain?" Zuko noted coldly.

To his disgust, Ozai did not render any remorse or desolation at the truth that he spoke. Contrastingly, he laughed; a bitter, cold, maniacal laugh.

"My boy! My son! You're more like me than I gave you credit for! Fine. I shall tell you all I know to humour you. But really, I don't know much. I mean, what would it look like if the Fire Lord conversed with a traitor and possible usurper?"

"Stop fooling around! YOU were the usurper and I'm nothing like you! You're cruel and heartless! You never could've loved my mother!" Zuko spat, rage finally consuming his tongue as he defended himself and his mǎ.

The corners of the offenders' mouth upturned into a grimace this time as he set his eyes upon Zuko. "Now how could you possibly know that you little whelp? Though it is true that my union with your mother was more for convenience than anything else, doesn't mean I never harboured feelings for her-"

"Enough! I don't want to hear it!" Zuko shouted, loosing it completely. It was a good thing he had ordered the sentries who normally stood guard away, preempting a commotion. "The last thing I want is you soiling my memory of her!" He turned around, swiftly heading for the stony corridor of the Prison.

"Shén Shèng; Chǎn liàng duō; Wàn gǔ cháng qīng; Shuō huǎng zhē."

Zuko faltered and turned around slowly to face the source of the names of several Earth Kingdom Cities of rumour.

"What did you say?"

"Must I really repeat them?" Ozai answered, raising an eye.

"No. But I want to know why you're telling me this now…"

Ozai's smile slipped as he lowered his eyes in what seemed like thought.

"Well, of course I could never give you precise locations, but these should be a rough guide for you. As to why I'm relaying them, perhaps it has something to do with the past. Then again, it's more likely for the amusement I find in observing you. You show promise, maybe I just want to see what you'll do.."

Ozai concluded his little monologue still staring at the stone floor of his cell with nothing more to say.

I know it was a bit short but it was just the first chapter. All the same, I would greatly appreciate comments! Here are the translations of the Chinese pinyin words I used in the chapter.

Translations:
Mǎ: Mother
(The other translations will have to wait ;D )