Title: Regret

Author: sleepygeeky/coat

Word Count: 200

Warning: Possibly confusing.

Challenge: #45, Confession

"I do regret it."

Iroh looked up and waited for his brother to continue. When they were young, Ozai regretted nothing, but old men had time to reflect on every mistake of their youth.

"What happened with Zuko was… unnecessary."

Not responding, Iroh went back to his tea; talking to Ozai when the Fire Lord got in one of his moods bordered on impossible. Besides, should Iroh tell Ozai what he thought, the General's head might spend less time on his shoulders than preferable.

"He only wished to do what was right for our kingdom," Iroh said, finally, weighing his words carefully.

Ozai's eyes narrowed. "He needed to learn humility. He insulted my council and disgraced me with his actions. His banishment and Agni Kai were supposed to teach him that."

Iroh shrugged, temper calm but still unable to form a response that would not lead to his execution. Everyone knew the Fire Lord's temper had worsened since his son's death.

After gathering all his things, Iroh bowed and left without speaking; as he had tried to teach Zuko, silence was an effective means of protest.

Ozai sat alone for a moment, staring after Iroh.

He whispered, "I miss him."