The elder Iroh from Avatar: The Last Airbender is a Firebender, a retired General of the Fire Nation, and brother of Fire Lord Ozai, who accompanies his exiled nephew Prince Zuko in his quest to capture Aang, the long-lost Avatar, in order to restore the young prince's honor and right to the throne.
Voice: Makoto Iwamatsu AKA "Mako"
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Spoilers:
Two years prior to the series,an indulgent Iroh allowed his beloved nephew to observe a meeting of his father's war room, a mistake he would soon come to regret. In the council, Zuko spoke out against a General who planned to sacrifice an entire division of novice troops in battle as a diversionary tactic. Though Iroh silently agreed with young Zuko's assessment, the Fire Lord demanded that Zuko participate in a fire duel, the Agni Kai, for his insubordination. Zuko accepted, under the mistaken impression he would be dueling the General he'd insulted. However, because Zuko had spoken out in his father's war room, it was his father whom he had disrespected. Iroh bore witness in the audience when Zuko fell to his knees in the arena, pleading for forgiveness and refusing to duel his own father. When Iroh's brother badly burned his own son's face, permanently scarring him as punishment for his cowardice and disrespect, Iroh looked away, unable to stand the sight.
Zuko was afterward stripped of his birthright and exiled from the Fire Nation. However, there was one possible condition to restore his honor and throne and return home. Zuko was given a mission: find and capture the Avatar. The Avatar was a perpetually reincarnated spirit of the planet manifested in human form, master of all four elements and maintainer of balance between the Four Nations. This powerful being was the only threat to the Fire Nation's victory in its imperialist war against the other nations. Yet he had vanished a century ago, shortly before the Fire Nation's first strike. Three generations had conducted fruitless searches, and now it was Zuko's turn to be sent on a quest that seemed little more than a fool's errand.
Undeterred, Zuko sought to do the impossible, and Iroh accompanied him. The pair spent two years at sea, searching in vain for any sign of the centenarian Airbender the Fire Sages had described. Though Iroh was resigned to the futility of their mission, and wiled away his days with games, there finally came a day when a strange beacon lit the skies off the coast of the South Pole. When Zuko investigated, he discovered that the Avatar had reappeared at last. Improbably, the long-sought old man was actually Aang, a twelve-year-old boy recently woken from a hundred years of suspended animation. Thrown off-guard, Zuko underestimated the boy, who managed to escape his grasp. Zuko and Iroh have been in hot pursuit ever since, tracking the Avatar and his friends across the globe.
Easygoing and dryly good-humored, Iroh tends to treat his self-imposed exile as though it were an extended vacation. Something of a hedonist in his old age, he's more focused on the pursuit of relaxation, food, drink and amusements than on pursuit of the Avatar. He's particularly fond of a good cup of tea, the strategy game Pai Sho, and pleasant music. He actually founded a music night for the ship's crew, (among whom he is popular) where he both sings and plays instruments. His morals are slightly lax, however (he once pocketed perfumes from an abbey). Yet this placid exterior disguises a wise, still-formidable warrior, a crafty and brutal strategist and great firebending master. So impressive is his skill that he has displyed mastery of electricity, and has defeated multiple Earthbenders and Firebenders with little effort.
In his younger days, Iroh was a great General and war hero, once known among his enemies as the "Dragon of the West." Though he still commands a great deal of respect, he fell from grace with his one great failure. In a bid for final victory against the Earth Kingdom, he and his men laid siege to the capital city of Ba Sing Se for six hundred days, until finally giving up the assault.
In addition, Iroh has endured other trials, including a journey to the Spirit World (which has left him with respect for the other world and the ability to see spirits) and the death of his son.
To his nephew, Iroh is a mentor, firebending teacher, advisor, caretaker, and most simply, "Uncle." The tolerant and even-keeled foil to Zuko's impulsiveness and disrespect, Iroh tempers Zuko's anger with practical advice and a wry sense of humor. Though Iroh is a hard instructor, his merciless drilling in firebending basics has served to improve Zuko's skill. Due to his own status as a failure in the eyes of his country, Iroh has much sympathy for Zuko, and pleads that he not be so relentless in his search. Although he often teases his nephew, who impatiently balks at his advice, they care deeply about each other. Iroh even thinks of Zuko as his surrogate child in place of his lost son, and worries over him accordingly. In turn, Zuko deeply loves his uncle, and is greatly touched when Iroh indirectly praises him. When Zuko was once confronted with the choice of tracking the Avatar or saving a kidnapped Iroh, he chose the latter without hesitation. Both depend on each other in exile, and as such, are practically inseparable.
~Karen
Favorite Quotes:
Zuko: Finally. Uncle, do you realize what this means?.
Iroh: I won’t get to finish my game?.
Zuko: It means my search - it’s about to come to an end.
(Iroh groans.)
Zuko: That light came from an incredibly powerful source. It has to be him!.
Iroh: Or it’s just the celestial lights. We’ve been down this road
before, Prince Zuko. I don’t want you to get too excited over nothing.
Please, sit. Why don’t you enjoy a cup of calming jasmine tea?.
**********
I’m going to bed now. (He makes an exaggerated yawn) Yep. A man needs his rest. Prince Zuko, you need some sleep. Even if you’re right and the Avatar is alive, you won’t find him. Your father, grandfather, and great-grandfather all tried and failed.
**********
Iroh: No! Power in firebending comes from the breath. Not the muscles. The
breath becomes energy in the body. The energy extends past your limbs and becomes
fire.Get it right this time.
Zuko: Enough. I’ve been drilling this sequence all day. Teach me the
next set. I’m more than ready.
Iroh: No, you are impatient. You have yet to master your basics. (More forcefully)
Drill it again!.
Zuko: The sages tell us that the Avatar is the last airbender. He must be over
a hundred years old by now. He’s had a century to master the four elements.
I’ll need more than basic firebending to defeat him. You WILL teach me
the advanced set!.
Iroh: Very well. But first I must finish my roast duck. (Begins eating) Num
num num...
**********
Zuko: This staff will make an excellent gift for my father. I suppose you
wouldn’t know of fathers, being raised by monks. Take the Avatar to the
prison hold. And (shoving Aangs' staff in Iroh’s direction) take this
to my quarters.
(Iroh takes the staff as Zuko walks away. Iroh immediately turns to the guard
on his left.)
Iroh: Hey, you mind taking this to his quarters for me?.
**********
Good news for the Fire Lord. The nation’s greatest threat is just a little kid.
**********
Zhao: The Fire Lord's brother and son are welcome guests any time. What brings
you to my harbor?.
Iroh: Our ship is being repaired.
(Iroh gestures at the heavily damaged bow of Zuko's ship.)
Zhao: That's quite a bit of damage.
Zuko: Yes... you wouldn't believe what happened... Uncle! Tell Commander Zhao
what happened.
Iroh: Yes, I will do that. It was incredible. (Leans over and whispers to Zuko.)
What... did we crash or something?.
**********
(Zuko in a further act of frustration kicks over a small table that had been
sitting near Iroh. It breaks into pieces. Iroh watches the scene calmly.)
Iroh: More tea please?.
**********
Prince Zuko, have you forgotten what happened last time you dueled a master?.
**********
Remember your firebending basics, Prince Zuko. They are your greatest weapons.
**********
Basics, Zuko!. Break his root!.
**********
Iroh: So this is how the great Commander Zhao acts in defeat. Disgraceful.Even
in exile my nephew is more honorable than you. Thanks again for the tea.
It was delicious.
Zuko: (quietly) Did you really mean that, Uncle?
Iroh: (slyly) Of course. I told you ginseng tea is my favorite.
**********
Zuko: The only reason you should be interrupting me is if you have news about
the Avatar.
Iroh (enters cautiously carrying a map): Well, there is news but you might
not like it. Don’t get too upset.
Zuko (in a dangerously silky voice): Uncle, you taught me that keeping a level
head is a sign of a great leader. Now whatever you have to say I’m sure
that I can take it.
Iroh: Ok then, we have no idea where he is.
Zuko (enraged): WHAT!
Iroh (fanning himself): You really should open a window in here.
**********
Zuko: The Avatar’s on Kyoshi Island?. Uncle, ready the Rhinos. He’s
not getting away from me this time.
(Iroh is sitting at the dinner table with the steaming hot dish of fish in
front of him. Pointing at the fish, he begins to speak)
Iroh: Are you going to finish that?.
(Zuko walks angrily back to the dinner table and grabs the fish off of the
table.)
Zuko: I was going to save it for later! (He storms off with the fish.)
(Iroh crosses his arms in annoyance at not getting to eat the fish)
**********
Zuko (yelling): Uncle! It’s time to leave! Where are you? Uncle Iroh!
(Iroh is in a hotspring, a tub made out of rock, fed by a stream coming out
of the rocks behind it.)
Iroh (happily): Over here.
Zuko: Uncle? We need to move on, we’re closing in on the Avatar’s
trail and I don’t want to lose him!.
Iroh: You look tired, Prince Zuko. Why don’t you join me in these hot
springs and soak away your troubles.
Zuko (angry): My troubles cannot be soaked away. It’s time to go!.
Iroh: You should take your teacher’s advice and relax a little. The temperature’s
just right. I heated it myself.
(Iroh shifts position slightly, puts his hands together and breathes steam
from his nostrils. Cut to Zuko, obscured by steam, who swats it away.)
Zuko: Enough! We need to leave now! Get out of the water!.
Iroh (rising): Very well.
(Zuko puts his hand up to strategically block the view of Iroh)
Zuko: On second thought, why don’t you take another few minutes, but
be back at the ship in half an hour or I’m leaving without you.
Iroh (leaning back, happily): Ahhhh!.
**********
Iroh: Where are you taking me?
Captain: We’re taking you to face justice.
Iroh: Right. But where, specifically?
Captain: A place you’re quite familiar with, actually. You once laid
siege to it for 600 days, but it would not yield to you.
Iroh (whistfully): Ah! The great city of Ba-Sing-Se.
Captain: It was greater than you were, apparently.
Iroh (defensively): I acknowledged my defeat at Ba-Sing-Se! After 600 days
away from home, my men were tired and I was tired, (yawns, puts face in the
back of the soldier he is riding with) and I’m still tired.
**********
Iroh: Excellent form, Prince Zuko.
Zuko: You taught me well.
Captain: Surrender yourselves, it’s five against two. You’re clearly
outnumbered.
(Iroh and Zuko are back to back, surrounded by their would be captors.)
Iroh: Uh, that’s true, but you are clearly outmatched!.
**********
Iroh (concerned and frustrated): Sailing into Fire Nation waters….of
all the foolish things you have done in your 16 years, Prince Zuko, this is
the most foolish.
Zuko: I have no choice, Uncle.
Iroh (angrily): Have you completely forgotten that the Fire Lord banished you?!
(With a look of anguish and worry) What if you’re caught?.
Zuko (turning around from his spy glass): I’m chasing the Avatar. My
father will understand why I’m returning home.
Iroh: You give him too much credit. My brother is not the understanding type.
**********
(At the bowels of Zuko’s ship a catapult is raised from below onto the
deck of the ship. The catapult is loaded with a steaming and smoldering projectile.
Zuko and Iroh are standing behind the catapult. Iroh, fanning himself, wrinkles
his nose in disgust.)
Iroh (groaning): Really, Prince Zuko, couldn’t you shoot them down with
something more fragrant?.
**********
Please Prince Zuko, if the Fire Nation captures you, there is nothing I can do. Do not follow the Avatar.
**********
Zuko: What’s he up to, Uncle? Why didn’t Commander Zhao arrest
me?.
Iroh: Because he wants to follow you. He knows you’ll lead him to the
prize you’re both after... the Avatar.
**********
Zuko: What’s the meaning of this mutiny? No one told you to change course!
(Iroh and some other crewman are playing Pai Sho nearby.)
Iroh: Actually, someone did. I assure you it is a matter of utmost importance,
Prince Zuko.
Zuko: Is it something to do with the Avatar?
Iroh: Even more urgent. It seems… I’ve lost my lotus tile.
(Iroh moves a piece forward on the Pai Sho board. Cut to Zuko, who is mystified.)
Zuko: Lotus tile?
Iroh: For my Pai Sho game. Most people think the lotus tile insignificant,
but it is essential for the unusual strategy that I employ.
Zuko (incensed): You’ve changed our course for a stupid lotus tile?
Iroh: See, you, like most people, underestimate its value. Just give me ten
minutes to check the merchants at this port of call. Hopefully they’ll
have the lotus tile in stock and I can get on with my life!
(Zuko works hard to contain his anger, ultimately releasing a gout of flame
from his mouth the licks over the ceiling. Iroh, still smiling, is soon clouded
with smoke.)
Iroh: I’m lucky to have such an understanding nephew.
**********
Iroh: I’ve checked all the shops on this pier. Not a lotus tile in the
entire marketplace.
Zuko (turning to shout at his uncle): Great!. It’s good to know this
trip was a complete waste of time for everyone!.
Iroh: Quite the contrary. I always say the only thing better than finding something
you were looking for, is finding something you weren’t looking for at
a great bargain!.
(A parade of Fire Nation soldiers walks by carrying armloads of merchandise
that Iroh has just bought. One of them is some kinds of brass musical instrument.)
Zuko: You bought a sungi horn?
Iroh: For music night on the ship. Now, if we only had some woodwinds.
**********
(Zuko and his men lined up facing each other. Katara is still bound to the
tree, Iroh standing next to her. The pirates have Sokka and Aang tied up, Zuko
holds the scroll.)
Zuko: Nice work.
Katara: Aang, this is all my fault.
Aang: No, Katara it isn’t.
Iroh: Yeh, it kind of is.
**********
(Zuko is dueling the Pirate Captain and Iroh breaks it up.)
Iroh: Are you so busy fighting you cannot see your own ship has set sail?
Zuko: We have no time for your proverbs, Uncle!
Iroh (pointing): It's no proverb.
(the pirate ship is sailing downriver)
Pirate Captain: Bleeding hog-monkeys! (He runs)
Zuko: (laughing) Ha ha!
(pirate ship is now far away, as the screen pans left to reveal Zuko’s
ship following it, loaded with pirates, one of whom moves to moon Zuko and
his Uncle)
Zuko: Hey! That’s my boat! (He runs after it)
Iroh (scratching his chin): Maybe it should be a proverb.
**********
(Zuko is running up to the river bank near the waterfall, Iroh huffing and
puffing behind him.)
Zuko: My boat!
Iroh (finally regaining his breath): He he, Prince Zuko, you’re really
going to get a kick out of this. The missing lotus tile was in my sleeve the
whole time!.
**********
Iroh: There is a storm coming. A big one.
Zuko (lowering his telescope): You’re out of your mind, Uncle. The weather’s
perfect. There is not a cloud in sight.
Iroh: The storm is approaching from the north. I suggest we alter our course
and head southwest.
Zuko: We know the Avatar is traveling northward, so we will do the same.
Iroh: Prince Zuko, consider the safety of the crew.
Zuko: The safety of the crew doesn’t matter!
(Zuko’s eyebrow go up in concern as a crewmember enters from the left
in the background. The Lieutenant has clearly overhead Zuko’s remark
and is unhappy. Zuko, realizing this, begins to speak to the Lieutenant and
walks up until his face is right in front of the Lieutenant’s.)
Zuko: Finding the Avatar is far more important than any individual’s
safety.
(Zuko enters the ship and shuts the hatch behind him. Iroh stands next to the
Lieutenant.)
Iroh: He doesn’t mean that, he’s just all worked up.
**********
Lieutenant Jee: Uh! Looks like your uncle was right about the storm after
all.
Iroh (entering): Lucky guess.
**********
Enough! We are all a bit tired from being at sea so long. I’m sure after a bowl of noodles everyone will feel much better.
**********
Lieutenant Jee: I’m sick of taking his orders and I’m tired of
chasing his Avatar!. I mean who does Zuko think he is?.
Iroh (entering): Do you really want to know?.
Lieutenant Jee: General Iroh! We were just –
Iroh (entering, with a hand raised in acceptance): It’s ok. May I join
you?.
Lieutenant Jee: Of course, sir!
(Iroh approaches and sits down with the men. He strokes his beard and begins
to speak)
Iroh: Try to understand, my nephew is a complicated young man. He has been
through much...
**********
Iroh: Prince Zuko, what’s wrong?
Zuko: I want to go into the war chamber, but the guard won’t let me pass!
(Iroh leads him away from the guards.)
Iroh: You’re not missing anything, trust me. These meetings are dreadfully
boring.
Zuko: If I’m gonna rule this nation one day, don’t you think I
need to start learning as much as I can?.
Iroh: Very well. But you must promise not to speak. These old folks are a bit
sensitive, you know.
**********
Zuko was right, you see, but it was not his place to speak out, and there were... dire consequences.
**********
Iroh: After Zuko’s outburst in the meeting, the Fire Lord became very
angry with him. He said that Prince Zuko’s challenge of the general was
an act of complete disrespect, and there was only one way to resolve this...
Lieutenant Jee (horrified): Agni kai. A fire duel.
Iroh: That’s right. Zuko looked upon the old general he had insulted
and declared that he was not afraid. But Zuko misunderstood. When he turned
to face his opponent, he was surprised to see it was not the General. Zuko
had spoken out against a general’s plan, but by doing so in the Fire
Lord’s war room, it was the Fire Lord whom he had disrespected. Zuko
would have to duel his own father.
**********
Lieutenant Jee (abashed): I always thought that Prince Zuko was in a training
accident…
Iroh: It was no accident. After the duel, the Fire Lord said that by refusing
to fight, Zuko had shown shameful weakness. As punishment he was banished and
sent to capture the Avatar. Only then could he return with his honor.
Lieutenant Jee: So that’s why he’s so obsessed. Capturing the Avatar
is the only chance he has of things returning to normal.
Iroh: Things will never return to normal. But the important thing is, the Avatar
gives Zuko hope.
**********
Zuko: The Avatar!
Lieutenant Jee: What do you want to do, sir?
Zuko (pausing to consider): Let him go. We need to get this ship to safety.
Iroh: Then we must head directly into the eye of the storm. (He smiles slightly)
**********
Zuko: Uncle, I am sorry.
Iroh (smiling, putting a hand on his nephew’s shoulder): Your apology
is accepted.
**********
Zuko: What do they want?
Iroh (hopefully): Perhaps a sporting game of Pai Sho!
**********
Herald: The hunt for the Avatar has been given prime importance. All information
regarding the Avatar must be reported directly to Admiral Zhao.
Iroh: Zhao has been promoted? Well, good for him!
**********
Iroh (winning at pai sho): Excellent! (He leans forward and gathers all the chips on the table) I take the pot. But, you’re all improving. I’m certain you will win if we play again.
**********
Where have you been, Prince Zuko? You missed music night! Lieutenant Jee sang a stirring love song.
**********
Iroh: (drinking tea) Ahh! See, Prince Zuko, a moment of quiet is good for your mental well being.
**********
Jun (petting her monster as she gets back in the saddle): My shirshu can smell
a rat a continent away.
Iroh (admiring her): Well, I’m impressed.
(Jun cracks her whip and the shirshu bolts off the ship and down the dock)
Iroh (stroking his chin): Very impressed.
**********
Zuko: Out of my way! Step aside, filth!.
(Iroh appears in Zuko’s wake with a smile, addressing the people his
nephew has just thrust aside.)
Iroh: He means no offense! I’m sure you bathe regularly.
**********
Zuko: If you find them, I’ll consider the damage to my ship paid for.
Jun: Heh! Forget it.
(She turns and begins to climb into her saddle.)
Iroh: Plus we’ll pay your weight in gold.
(She smiles, gets down and walks over to Iroh.)
Jun: Make it your weight and we got a deal.
Iroh (laughing): Ha ha! You got it!.
**********
Aunt Wu: (flirting) Care to hear your fortune, handsome?
Iroh: (smiling) At my age there is really only one big surprise left, and I’d
just as soon leave it a mystery.
**********
(Zuko gets tongue lashed by the shirshu, followed by Jun.)
Iroh: Jun! No!
(Iroh catches the falling bounty hunter. The rampaging shirshu breaks open
a few more jars, paws the tiles of the roof of one of the buildings, then jumps
over the wall and disappears. Zuko and Iroh are laying flat on the ground.
Iroh has Jun draped across his chest, his arm around her.)
Zuko: Uncle? I didn’t see you get hit with the tongue.
Iroh: (smiling) Shhh!
**********
Iroh (singing slightly out of tune): Winter, spring, summer and fall. Winter, spring, summer and fall. Four seasons, four loves. Four seasons for love.
**********
Zuko: For the last time, I’m not playing the sungi horn.
Iroh: No, it’s about our plans. There’s a bit of a problem.
(Zhao enters the room behind Iroh.)
Zhao: I’m taking your crew.
Zuko (turning to face Zhao): What!?
Zhao: I’ve recruited them for a little expedition to the North Pole.
Zhao: Uncle, is that true?.
Iroh: I’m afraid so. He’s taking everyone. (Putting his arm over
his face in woe) Even the cook!.
**********
Iroh: Our plan is working perfectly. Zhao doesn’t suspect a thing.
Zuko (removing his guard mask): You didn’t have to do this.
Iroh: No nephew of mine is going to stow away on a ship without some backup!.
Zuko: Thank you, Uncle.
Iroh (hearing a sound): Someone’s coming! Stay hidden until we get to
the North Pole and the Avatar will be yours! Good luck!.
**********
Iroh: Be careful what you wish for, Admiral. History is not always kind to
its subjects.
Zhao: I suppose you speak from experience? But rest assured, this will be nothing
like your legendary failure at Ba-Sing-Se.
Iroh: I hope not, for your sake.
**********
Iroh: It’s almost twilight, Admiral. As your military consultant I must advise you to halt your attack. The waterbenders draw their power from the moon and it is nearly full tonight. You should wait and resume the attack at daybreak.
**********
Iroh: If you’re fishing for an octopus, my nephew, you need a tightly
woven net or he will squeeze through the tiniest hole and escape.
Zuko: I don’t need your wisdom right now, Uncle.
Iroh: I’m sorry, I just nag you because, well, ever since I lost my son...
(Iroh looks away, pain evident on his face)
Zuko: Uncle, you don’t have to say it.
Iroh: I think of you as my own.
(Zuko turns to him, a genuine look of concern and understanding on his face.)
Zuko: I know, Uncle. (He bows and salutes him with his arm over chest.) We’ll
meet again...
(Iroh rushes forward and gives him a bear hug.)
Zuko (releasing his Uncle and walking over to the canoe)...after I have the
Avatar.
(He gets into the canoe and begins to lower it to the water.)
Iroh: Remember your Breathe of Fire! It could save your life out there!.
Zuko: I will.
Iroh: And put your hood up, keep your ears warm!.
Zuko (now far below his uncle): I’ll be fine!.
(Iroh is looking worried as he watches his nephew depart)
**********
Iroh: I don’t need to remind you we have a time limit. If we don’t
defeat the Water Tribe before the full moon rises they will be undefeatable.
Zhao (smiling evilly): I assure you I have everything under control. I intend
to remove the moon as a factor.
Iroh (incredulously): Remove the moon!?. How?.
**********
Zhao: I discovered a hidden library, underground in fact. I tore through scroll
after scroll. One of them contained a detailed illustration and the words “moon” and “ocean.” I
knew then that these spirits could be found – and killed... And that
it was my destiny to do so.
Iroh (angry): Zhao, the Spirits are not to be trifled with!.
**********
Zhao (in a bored, lecturing tone): General Iroh, why am I not surprised to
discover your treachery?
Iroh: I’m no traitor, Zhao, the Fire Nation needs the moon too. We all
depend on the balance. (he points a finger at Zhao and thunders) Whatever you
do to that spirit I’ll unleash on you ten-fold! (He assumes a firebending
stance) LET IT GO, NOW!.
**********
Iroh: I’m surprised, Prince Zuko, surprised that you are not at this
moment trying to capture the Avatar.
Zuko: (wearilly) I’m tired...
Iroh (putting a hand on his nephew's shoulder): Then you should rest. A man
needs his rest.
**********
Iroh: (contentedly, as he receives a massage from two attendants) Aaahhh… this
is what I’ve been missing. Who knew floating on a piece of driftwood
for three weeks with no food or water and sea vultures waiting to pluck out
your liver could make one so tense?
(He casts a glance at Zuko and walks over to sit beside him on the floor.)
Iroh: I see. It’s the anniversary, isn’t it?
Zuko: (dejectedly) Three years ago today I was banished. I lost it all. I want
it back. I want the Avatar, I want my honor, I want my throne. I want my father
not to think I’m worthless.
Iroh: (with exaggerated optimism) I’m sure he doesn’t! Why would
he banish you if he didn’t care?
(Zuko gets up and walks away)
Iroh: (negatively to himself) Erg… that came out wrong, didn’t
it?.
**********
Zuko: (happily) We’re going home. After three long years. It’s
unbelievable.
Iroh: (skeptically) It is unbelievable. I have never known my brother to regret
anything.
Zuko: Did you listen to Azula? Father’s realized how important family
is to him. He cares about me.
Iroh: I care about you!. And if Ozai wants you back… well, I think it
may not be for the reasons you imagine.
Zuko: (defensively) You don’t know how my father feels about me. (He
stiffens) You don’t know anything.
Iroh: (gently) Zuko, I only meant that in our family things are not always
what they seem.
(Zuko whirls around angrily and faces Iroh, leaning in as he accuses him.)
Zuko: (nastily) I think you are exactly what you seem: a lazy, mistrustful,
shallow old man who has always been jealous of his brother.
(Zuko turns and walks away. Iroh looks on sadly, then closes his eyes.)
**********
(Zuko is descending quickly down the stairway from the bathhouse, a bag over
his shoulder. He pauses for a moment and looks down at the Fire Nation ship
in the bay below, then turns to continue on.)
Iroh: (calling out urgently) Wait! Don’t leave without me!
Zuko: (happily surprised) Uncle! You’ve changed your mind!
Iroh: Family sticks together, right?
(Iroh puts a hand on Zukos shoulder. Zuko smiles happily. There is a sudden
flashback to Iroh’s hand on the shoulder of a young Zuko.)
**********
Zuko: Uncle… what are you doing?
Iroh: You’re looking at the rare white dragon bush. (lovingly) Its leaves
make a tea so delicious it’s heartbreaking! (gravely) That, or it’s
the white jade bush, which is poisonous.
Zuko: We need food, not tea. I’m going fishing.
Iroh: (still contemplating and stroking his chin) Delectable tea? Or deadly
poison?
**********
Iroh: Zuko, remember that plant that I thought might be tea?
Zuko: (horrified) You didn’t!
Iroh: I did. (Iroh turns around to reveal his red, swollen face which he is
scratching) And it wasn’t.
**********
Song: You two must not be from around here. We know better than to touch the
white jade, much less make it into tea and drink it.
Iroh: (sheepishly) Heh heh heh. Whoops!
Song: So where are you traveling from?
Zuko: (standing and talking quickly) Yes, we’re travelers.
Song: Do you have names?
Zuko: (hesitantly) Names? Of course we have names. I’m… Lee. And
this is my uncle, uh… Mushi.
(Iroh shoots him an unhappy look from behind Song’s back.)
Iroh: (facetiously) Yes, my nephew was named after his father, so we just call
him Junior.
(Iroh looks over Song’s shoulder at “Junior,” who balls his
fists at the name his uncle has just bestowed on him.)
Song: Mushi and Junior, huh? My name is Song. You two look like you could use
a good meal.Why don’t you stay for dinner?
Zuko: Sorry, but we need to be moving on.
Song: That’s too bad. My mom always makes too much roast duck.
Iroh: (Eagerly) Where do you live, exactly?.
**********
Iroh: (graciously) Thank you for the duck. It was excellent.
Song’s Mother: You’re welcome. (She hands him a package, presumably
of leftover roast duck) It brings me joy to see someone eat my cooking with
such… gusto.
Iroh: (patting his stomach) Much practice.
**********
(Iroh holds his hat out to the pedestrian and speaks to him.)
Iroh: Spare coins for weary travelers?
(The man throws a few copper coins into Iroh’s hat, joining perhaps a
dozen already there. Zuko turns to Iroh in anger.)
Zuko: This is humiliating! We’re royalty. These people should be giving
us whatever we want.
Iroh: They will – if you ask nicely.
(Several more pedestrians pass. Iroh next solicits a well dressed young woman.)
Iroh: (in a weak voice) Spare change for a hungry old man?
Young Woman: Aww, (she produces a coin from her sleeve and puts it in his hat)
here you go.
Iroh: The coin is appreciated, but not as much as your smile.
(Zuko slaps his forehead in a gesture of frustration. The girl giggles and
walks away. A man carrying a pair of broadswords on his back wanders by the
opposite direction as the girl. He stops and addresses the beggars.)
Broadsword Man: (smiling somewhat cruelly) How about some entertainment in
exchange for…a gold piece.
Zuko: We’re not performers.
(Iroh smiles and puts his hat on the ground.)
Iroh: Not professional, anyway.
(Standing up and clasping his hands together, he begins to sing)
Iroh: (singing, and shifting from one foot to another as he rocks back and
forth) It’s a long, long way to Ba-Sing-Se, (his mouth becomes very wide
in an animation effect) but the girls in the city they look soo prett-ay!
Broadsword Man: (displeased) Come on! We’re talking a gold piece here!
(He whips out his broadswords) Let’s see some action! (pointing a sword
at Iroh) Dance!
(The Broadsword Man begin to swing his swords at Iroh’s legs. Iroh hops
up and down to avoid the blows while continuing his song.)
Iroh: (singing) And they kiss so sweet that you’ve really got to meet
the girls from Ba-Sing-Se!
Broadsword Man: Hahaha! Nothing like a fat man dancing for his dinner. (Tosses
coin) Here ya go!
(Iroh leans down and picks up the coin as the Broadsword Man walks away, reseathing
his swords. Iroh sits back down beside Zuko as both look towards their benefactor’s
retreating back)
Iroh: (smiling) Such a kind man!
**********
Iroh: Looks like you did some serious shopping. (Iroh walks around the fire
and sits, inspecting a gold teapot in front of him) But where did you get
the money?
Zuko: (avoids the question) Do you like your new teapot?
Iroh: To be honest with you, the best tea tastes delicious whether it comes
in a porcelain pot or a tin cup. (walking over to Zuko who lies with his back
to the opposite wall of the cave) I know we’ve had some difficult times
lately. We’ve had to struggle just to get by. (puts his hand on Zuko’s
shoulder) But it’s nothing to be ashamed of. There is a simple honor
in poverty.
Zuko: There’s no honor for me without the Avatar.
Iroh: Zuko… (sighs) Even if you did capture the Avatar, I’m not
so sure it would solve our problems. Not now.
Zuko: (abruptly) Then there is no hope at all.
(Zuko turns to get up.)
Iroh: (quickly) No, Zuko! You must never give in to despair. Allow yourself
to slip down that road and you surrender to your lowest instincts. In the darkest
times, hope is something you give yourself. That is the meaning of inner strength.
**********
Zuko: Uncle, I thought a lot about what you said.
(Iroh turns his head towards his nephew.)
Iroh: (pleased) You did? Good, good.
Zuko: (without malice, but also without hesitation) It’s helped me realize
something. We no longer have anything to gain by traveling together. I need
to find my own way.
(Iroh looks down and slumps slightly in sadness. Zuko picks up a pack and begins
to walk away.)
Iroh: Wait!
(Iroh leads over their stolen ostrich horse and places the reigns in Zuko’s
hands)
**********
Iroh: (in letter) If the city is as magnificent as its wall, Bah Sing Se must be something to behold. I hope you all may see it some day, if we don't burn it to the ground first! Ha ha ha!
**********
Iroh: (To Toph) You sound like my nephew, always thinking you need to do things
on your own, without anyone's support. There is nothing wrong with letting
people who love you help you. Not that I love you, I just met you.
Toph: (Laughing) So, where is your nephew?
Iroh: I've been tracking him actually.
Toph: Is he lost?
Iroh: Yes, a little bit. His life has recently changed, and he's going through
very difficult times. He's trying to figure out who he is, and he went away.
Toph: So now you're following him.
Iroh: I know he doesn't want me around right now, but if he needs me, I'll
be there.
**********
(In a flashback at his son's grave): My beloved Lu Ten, I will see you again.
**********
Zuko: Uncle! You were unconscious. Azula did this to you. It was a surprise
attack.
Iroh: Somehow, that’s not so surprising.
**********
Zuko: (Handing Iroh his tea) I hope I made it the way you like it.
(Iroh takes a sip from the cup and his eyes widen.)
Iroh: (He lets out a cry of disgust but manages to mask it.) Mmm, good. (He
takes another drink and grunts.) That was very, uhh… bracing!
(Zuko hands him another cup and he tosses it out the window when his nephew
isn’t looking.)
**********
Zuko:So uncle, I’ve been thinking. It’s only a matter of time
before I run into Azula again. I’m going to need to know more advanced
firebending if I want to stand a chance against her. I know what you’re
going to say: she’s my sister and I should be trying to get along with
her.
Iroh: No, she’s crazy and she needs to go down. It’s time to resume
your training.
**********
Iroh: Lightning is a pure expression of firebending, without aggression. It
is not fueled by rage or emotion the way other firebending is. Some call lightning
the cold-blooded fire. (Iroh takes the tea kettle off the fire and pours it
into another pot. He then begins to pour two cups.) It is precise and deadly,
like Azula. To perform the technique requires peace of mind.
(He hands a cup to Zuko.)
Zuko: I see. That’s why we’re drinking tea: To calm the mind.
Iroh: Oh yeah, good point! I mean, yes.
**********
Iroh: There is energy all around us. The energy is both yin and yang; positive
energy and negative energy. Only a select few firebenders can separate these
energies. This creates an imbalance. The energy wants to restore balance and
in a moment the positive and negative energy come crashing back together. You
provide release and guidance, creating lightning.
Zuko: I’m ready to try it!
Iroh: Remember, once you separate the energy, you do not command it. You are
simply its humble guide. Breathe first.
**********
Zuko: Why can’t I do it? Instead of lightning, it keeps exploding in
my face! Like everything always does!
Iroh: I was afraid this might happen. You will not be able to master lightning
until you have dealt with the turmoil inside you.
Zuko (frustrated and enraged): What turmoil?!
Iroh: Zuko, you must let go of your feelings of shame if you want your anger
to go away.
Zuko: But I don’t feel any shame at all! I’m as proud as ever!
Iroh: Prince Zuko, pride is not the object of shame, but its source. True humility
is the only antidote to shame.
Zuko: Well… my life has been nothing but humbling lately.
Iroh: I have another idea. I will teach you a firebending move that even Azula
doesn’t know, because I made it up myself!
**********
Iroh: Fire is the element of power. The people of the Fire Nation have desire
and will, and the energy and drive to achieve what they want. Earth is the
element of substance. The people of the Earth Kingdom are diverse and strong.
They are persistent and enduring. Air is the element of freedom. The Air Nomads
detached themselves from worldly concerns and found peace and freedom. Also,
they apparently had pretty good senses of humor!. Water is the element of change.
The people of the Water Tribe are capable of adapting to many things. They
have a deep sense of community and love that holds them together through anything.
Zuko: Why are you telling me these things?
Iroh: It is important to draw wisdom from many different places. If we take
it from only one place, it becomes rigid and stale. Understanding others, the
other elements, and the other nations will help you become whole.
Zuko: All this four elements talk is sounding like Avatar stuff.
Iroh: It is the combination of the four elements in one person that makes the
Avatar so powerful. But, it can make you more powerful too. You see, the technique
I am about to teach you is one I learned by studying the waterbenders.
**********
Iroh: Waterbenders deal with the flow of energy. A waterbender lets their
defense become their offense, turning their opponents’ energy against
them. I learned a way to do this with lightning.
Zuko(excitedly): You can teach me to redirect lightning?
Iroh: If you let the energy in your own body flow, the lightning will follow
it. You must create a pathway from your fingertips up your arm to your shoulder
and down into your stomach. The stomach is the source of energy in your body.
It is called the sea of chi. Only in my case, it is more like a vast ocean!.
You direct it up again and out the other arm. The stomach detour is critical.
You must not let the lightning pass through your heart or the damage could
be deadly. You may wish to try a physical motion to get a feel for the pathway’s
flow. Like this. Now, are you focusing your energy? Can you feel your own chi
flowing in, down, up, and out?
Zuko: I think so.
Iroh: Come on. You’ve got to feel the flow!. Excellent! You’ve
got it!
Zuko: Great! I’m ready to try it with real lightning!
Iroh: What, are you crazy? Lightning is very dangerous.
Zuko (annoyed): I thought that was the point: You teaching me how to protect
myself from it.
Iroh (frantically): But I’m not going to shoot lightning at you!. If
you are lucky, you will never have to use this technique at all.
**********
Zuko: Maybe we should make camp.
Iroh: (in a melodramaticaly pained voice) No, please, don’t stop for
me!
**********
Iroh: Colonel Mongke! What a pleasant surprise!
Mongke: If you’re surprised we’re here then the Dragon of the West
has lost a few steps.
Zuko: You know these guys?
Iroh: Sure. Colonel Mongke and the Rough Riders are legendary. Each one is
a different kind of weapons specialist. They are also a very capable singing
group.
Mongke: We’re not here to give a concert. We’re here to apprehend
fugitives!
Iroh: Would you like some tea first? I’d love some. How about you, Kachi?
I make you as a jasmine man. Am I right?
**********
Iroh: It’s nice to see old friends.
Zuko: Too bad you don’t have any old friends that don’t want to
attack you.
Iroh: (Thoughtfully) Hmm… Old friends that don’t want to attack
me…
**********
Zuko: No one here is going to help us. These people just look like filthy
wanderers.
Iroh: So do we.
**********
Zuko: You brought us here to gamble on Pai Sho?
Iroh: I don’t think this is a gamble.
**********
Iroh: May I have this game?
Pai Sho Player: The guest has the first move. I see you favor the white lotus
gambit. Not many still cling to the ancient ways.
Iroh: Those who do can always find a friend.
**********
Pai Sho Player: Welcome, brother. The White Lotus opens wide to those who
know her secrets.
Zuko: What are you old gasbags talking about?
Iroh: I always tried to tell you that Pai Sho is more than just a game.
**********
Pai Sho Player: It is an honor to welcome such a high-ranking member of the
Order of the White Lotus. Being a Grand Master, you must know so many secrets.
Zuko: Now that you played Pai Sho, are you going to do some flower arranging,
or is this club going to offer some real help?
Iroh: You must forgive my nephew. He is not an initiate and has little appreciation
for the cryptic arts.
**********
Zuko: What’s going on? Is the club meeting over?
Iroh: Everything is taken care of. We’re heading to Ba-Sing-Se.
Zuko: Ba-Sing-Se? Why would we go to the Earth Kingdom capital?
Pai Sho Player: The city is filled with refugees. No one will notice two more.
Iroh: We can hide in plain sight there. And it’s the safest place in
the world from the Fire Nation. Even I couldn’t break through to the
city.
***********
Iroh: (solemnly) Who would have thought, after all these years,
I’d return
to the scene of my greatest military disgrace…as a tourist? (as he says
this last bit, he turns to Zuko, putting on a flowered straw hat and a wide
grin)
Jet: (stepping closer) Here’s the deal. I hear the Captain’s eating
like a king, while us refugees have to feed off his scraps. Doesn’t seem
fair, does it?
Iroh: What sort of “king” is he eating like?
Jet: The fat, happy kind.
(Iroh’s mouth gapes open, drooling)
**********
Iroh: So, Smellerbee, that’s an unusual name for a young
man.
Smellerbee: (peeved) Maybe it’s because I’m not a man. I’m
a girl! (shoots Iroh a look, rises and walks off)
Iroh: (calling after her) Oh, now I see! It’s a beautiful name for a
lovely girl!
**********
Jet: (eagerly) From what I heard, people eat like this every
night in Ba Sing Se. I can’t wait to set my eyes on that giant wall.
Iroh: It is a magnificent sight.
Jet: So you’ve been there before?
Iroh: Once, when I was a different man. (looks away with regret)
Jet: (glancing around) I’ve done some things in my past that I’m
not proud of. But that’s why I’m going to Ba Sing Se, for a new
beginning. A second chance.
Iroh: That’s very noble of you. I believe people can change their lives
if they want to. I believe in second chances. (shares a meaningful look with
Zuko)
**********
Customs Lady: (sounding unpleasant) So, Mr. Lee, and Mr.… umm
Mushy is it?
Iroh: It’s pronounced Moo-shee.
Customs Lady: (looking up from papers angrily) You telling me how to do my
job?
Iroh: (stepping closer) Uh, no no no. (speaking charmingly) But may I just
say that you’re like a flower in bloom, your beauty intoxicating.
Tea Peddler: Get your hot tea here! Finest tea in Ba Sing Se!
Iroh: (waving an arm) Oh! Jasmine, please. (the peddler pours tea into Iroh’s
bowl, who delightedly takes a sip. His eyes widen in shock and he spits it
out in disgust) Blaugh! Ugh. Coldest tea in Ba Sing Se is more like it. What
a disgrace!
**********
(Zuko abruptly turns and dashes the cup of tea from his uncle’s
hand.)
Iroh: (surprised) Hey!
Zuko: (whispering through gritted teeth) What are you doing firebending your
tea? For a wise old man, that was a pretty stupid move.
Iroh: (mournfully) I know you’re not supposed to cry over spilled tea,
but *sniffle*…(cup is shown overturned in a puddle) .. that’s
so sad.
**********
Iroh: I just want our new place to look nice in case someone brings home a
lady friend.(He gives Zuko a small nudge with his elbow.)
Zuko: This city is a prison. I don’t want to make a life here.
Iroh: Life happens wherever you are, whether you make it or not. Now come on,
I found us some new jobs, and we start this afternoon.
**********
Tea shop owner: Well, you certainly look like official tea servers.
How do you feel?
Zuko: Ridiculous.
(Zuko and Iroh are both wearing aprons. Iroh desperately attempts to tie the
string behind his back, but his effort is in vain.)
Iroh: Uh, Does this possibly come in a larger size?
Tea shop owner: I have extra string in the back. Have some tea while you wait.
(The owner pours two cups of tea and hands them to his new employees before
heading to the back of the shop. Iroh takes a sip from his cup, but quickly
pulls it away, his face contorted in disgust.)
Iroh: Eeow! This tea is nothing more than hot leaf juice!
Zuko: Uncle, that’s what all tea is.
Iroh: How can a member of my own family say something so horrible? We’ll
have to make some major changes around here.
**********
Iroh: Would you like a pot of tea?
Zuko: We’ve been working in a tea shop all day. I’m sick of tea!
Iroh: Sick of tea? That’s like being sick of breathing!
**********
(Iroh is pouring a cup of tea for the officer that had walked
in earlier.)
Officer: This is the best tea in the city!
Iroh: The secret ingredient is love!.
**********
Jet: Arrest them. They’re Firebenders.
Iroh: This poor boy is confused. We’re just simple refugees.
Tea shop owner: (pointing at Jet) This young man wrecked my tea shop, and assaulted
my employees.
Officer: It’s true sir. We saw the whole thing. This crazy kid attacked
the finest tea maker in the city.
Iroh: (blushing) Oh ho ho. That’s very sweet.
******
Merchant: If this is for a romantic picnic, may I suggest this lavender one?
Iroh: No, it is not a romantic picnic, but it is a special occasion. (He hands
the merchant a few coins and picks up the basket. Iroh turns to leave the
market stall when a closed flower in a vase catches his eye. He slides the
vase out of the sunlight and into the shade) The moonflower likes partial
shade.
**********
(Four boys are in the courtyard with a white ball playing a game. One of
the boys hits the ground with his foot and the ball shoots up and back down.
He kicks it and then follows up with some earthbending. A patch of earth rises
to create a path for the ball as it rolls along. Another player earthbends
to impede the path of the ball before it reaches the goal. This causes the
ball to launch up and into the direction Iroh is standing. He moves out of
the way just in time, but the ball rips through the window directly behind
where he was. A crash and a loud voice can be herd from inside.)
Angry Man: Hey!
(Iroh walks over to the boys as they gather around him to listen to what he
has to say.)
Iroh: It is usually best to admit mistakes when they occur, and to seek to
restore honor-
(Loud smashes are heard and all five of them look up, startled. A very
large body and head are visible through the hole in the window.)
Angry Man: When I am through with you kids, the window won’t be the only
thing that’s broken!
Iroh: -but not this time. Run!
**********
Mugger: You. Give me all your money!
Iroh: What are you doing?
Mugger: I’m mugging you!
Iroh: With that stance?
Mugger: Wha -? What are you talking about? Just give me your money, old man!
Iroh: With a poor stance you are unbalanced, and you can be easily knocked
over.
(In one swift move, Iroh grabs the arm of the mugger and disarms him, while
simultaneously proving his point by pushing his attacker and knocking him to
the ground).
Mugger: Ugh!
(Iroh twirls the dagger in his hand then helps the man to his feet.)
Iroh: With a solid stance, you are a much more serious threat. (Iroh demonstrates
a proper stance for the mugger. The mugger attempts to imitate Iroh’s
stance, but is still not assuming the correct form. Iroh walks over to him
and holds his attacker’s head still while he adjusts the man’s
stance by nudging his backside forward with his foot. After helping him assume
the correct form, Iroh is now pleased with the man’s stance. ) Much better!
But to tell you the truth, you do not look like the criminal type.
**********
Mugger: So you really think I could be a good masseur?
Iroh: Of course!
Mugger: This is so great! No one has ever believed in me.
Iroh: While it is always best to believe in one's self, a little help from
others can be a great blessing.
**********
(At the makeshift memorial for his son) Happy Birthday my son. (He begins to cry.) If only I could have helped you.
**********
Zuko: Uncle, we have a problem. One of the customers is on to us. Don’t
look now, but there is a girl over there at the corner table. She knows we’re
fire nation... Didn’t I say don’t look!
Iroh: You’re right Zuko. I’ve seen that girl in here quite a lot.
Seems to me she has quite a little crush on you.
**********
Zuko: My name’s Lee. My Uncle and I just moved here.
Jin: Hi Lee, my name is Jin. Thank you and, well, I was wondering if you would
like to go out sometime?
Iroh: (Before the stunned Zuko can respond) He’d love to!
**********
Appa is flying over the Serpent’s Pass, passing in the pre-dawn
air over an Earth Kingdom vessel. From the deck, a shocked Iroh watches the forlorn
bison pass overhead and away.)
Iroh: Huh!?
Zuko: (roused from sleep) Uncle? What are you looking at? Is there something
out there?
Iroh: (nervously) Uh, it’s nothing. Go back to sleep. (he sighs
in relief as Zuko falls asleep again)
**********
Quon: So you're the genius behind this incredible brew. The whole city is
buzzing about you. (holds up the teacup in a hand glittering with jeweled
rings) I hope Pao pays you well.
Iroh: (smiling) Good tea is its own reward.
Quon: But it doesn't have to be the only reward. How would you like to have
your own tea shop?
Iroh: (stunned) My own tea shop? This is a dream come true.
Pao: (scampering to join conversation) What's going on here? Are you trying
to poach my tea maker? (throws himself protectively between Iroh and Quon)
Quon: Sorry Pao, that's business for you, am I right?
Pao: (increasingly desperate) Mushie, if you stay, I will make you Assistant
Manager. Wait, Senior Assistant manager.
Quon: I'll provide you with a new apartment in the upper ring. The Tea shop
is yours to do whatever you want. (Zuko glances over from busing a table)
Complete creative freedom.
Iroh: (elated) I even get to name the shop?
Quon: Of course!
Pao: (pleading) Uh, Senior Executive Assistant Manager?
(Iroh sets the teapot into the hands of shop owner Pao, who grimaces in
pain. Pao walks off as Iroh and Quon exchange respectful bows. Zuko crosses
in the foreground, pausing as Iroh speaks to him.)
Iroh: (excitedly) Did you hear nephew? This man wants to give us our own tea
shop in the upper ring of the city.
**********
Iroh: So, I was thinking about names for my new tea shop. How 'bout the
Jasmine Dragon? It's dramatic, poetic, has a nice ring to it.
Zuko: The Avatar's here in Ba Sing Se. (holds out the leaflet) And he's lost
his bison.
Iroh: (takes the leaflet) We have a chance for a new life here. (Zuko walks
to stare out a window) If you start stirring up trouble, we could lose all
the good things that are happening for us.
Zuko: (spins around to face Iroh, clearly irate) Good things that are
happening for you!. Have you ever thought that I want more from life than a
nice apartment and a job serving tea?
Iroh: (earnestly) There is nothing wrong with a life of peace and
prosperity. I suggest you think about what it is that you want for your
life, and why.
Zuko: (turning to look outside again) I want my destiny.
Iroh: What that means is up to you. (Zuko walks away from the window) The
Tea Weevil! (shakes his head in disgust) No, that's stupid.
**********
Blue Spirit: (taken aback) Uncle?
Iroh: (feigning puzzlement) So, the Blue Spirit. I wonder who could be
behind that mask?
Zuko: (removing his mask) What are you doing here?
Iroh: I was just about to ask you the same thing. What do you plan to do now
that you have found the Avatar's bison? Keep it locked in our new apartment?
Should I go put on a pot of tea for him?
Zuko: First I have to get it out of here.
Iroh: (incensed) AND THEN WHAT?! You never think these things through! This
is exactly what happened when you captured the Avatar at the North Pole! You
had him, and then you had no where to go!
Zuko: (heatedly) I would have figured something out!
Iroh: (shouting angrily) No!! If his friends hadn't found you, you would
have frozen to death!
Zuko: (looking away in anguish) I know my own destiny uncle.
Iroh: (forcefully) Is it your own destiny? Or is it a destiny someone else
has tried to force on you?
Zuko: (in torment) Stop it Uncle. I have to do this. (turns away, toward
Appa)
Iroh: (pleading furiously) I'm begging you Prince Zuko! It's time for you to
look inward, and begin asking yourself the big questions. Who are you? And
what do you want?
**********
Iroh: You did the right thing, nephew. (Zuko pulls out the Blue Spirit mask, regarding its demonic visage as Iroh rests a hand on its shoulder) Leave it behind.
**********
Iroh: You should know this is not a natural sickness. But that shouldn't
stop you from enjoying tea. (supports Zuko's head as he drinks)
Zuko: (disorientated) What, what's happening?
Iroh: You're critical decision, what you did beneath that lake, it was in
such conflict with your image of yourself, that you are now at war within
your own mind and body. (Zuko takes a second sip of the tea)
Zuko: What's that mean? (collapses in a fit of coughing)
Iroh: You're going through a metamorphosis, my nephew. It will not be a
pleasant experience, but when you come out of it, you will be the beautiful
Prince you were always meant to be. (mops Zuko's forehead with the damp
cloth)
**********
Iroh: Who thought when we came to this city as refugees, that I'd end up
owning my own tea shop. Follow your passion Zuko, and life will reward you.
Zuko: (cheerfully) Congratulations Uncle.
Iroh: (smiling) I'm very thankful.
Zuko: (confidently) You deserve it. The Jasmine Dragon will be the best tea
shop in the city.Iroh: No, I'm thankful because you decided to share this special
day with
me. (puts a hand on Zuko's arm) It means more than you know. (Zuko gives him
a warm hug, to his surprise)
Zuko: (enthusiastically) Now let's make these people some tea.
Iroh: (eagerly) Yes! Let's make some tea!
**********
Iroh: Many times, I imagined myself here, at the threshold of the palace. But I always thought I would be here as a conqueror...instead, we are the Earth Kings personal guests, here to serve him tea. Destiny is a funny thing.
**********
Zuko: What's taking so long?
Iroh: Maybe the Earth King overslept.
**********
Iroh: Did I ever tell you how I got the nickname the "Dragon of the West"?
Azula: (examining her nails and speaking in a bored tone) I'm not interested
in a lengthy anecdote, Uncle.
Iroh: It's more of a demonstration really. (Iroh takes a sip of his tea. The
ex general enters a firebending stance,
opens his mouth and breathes a powerful torrent of fire at the Dai Li, like
a dragon.)
**********
I know how you must feel about my nephew. But believe me when I tell you there is good inside him.
**********
Aang: So, Toph thinks you give pretty good advice. And great tea.
Iroh: The key to both is proper aging. What's on your mind?
Aang: Well, I met with this Guru who was supposed to help me master the
avatar state, and control this great power. But to do it, I had to let go of
someone I love, and I just couldn't.
Iroh: Perfection and power are overrated. I think you were very wise to
choose happiness and love.
Aang: What happens if we can't save everyone and beat Azula? Without the
Avatar State, what if I am not powerful enough?
Iroh: I don't know the answer. Sometimes life is like this dark tunnel. You can't
always see the light at the end of the tunnel, but if you just keep
moving you will come to a better place.
**********
Zuko: (hurt) Why Uncle?
Iroh: You are not the man you used to be, Zuko. You are stronger and wiser
and freer than you have ever been. And now you have come to the crossroads
of your destiny. It's time for you to choose. It's time for you to choose
good!
Azula: I expected this kind of treachery from Uncle, but Zuko, Prince
Zuko...you're a lot of things, but you're not a traitor, are you?
Zuko: Release him immediately!
Azula: It's not too late for you Zuko. You can
still redeem yourself.
Iroh: The kind of redemption she offers is not for you.
Azula: Why don't you let
him decide, Uncle? I need you Zuko. I've plotted
every move of this day. This glorious day in Fire Nation history. And the
only way we win is together. At the end of this day, you will have your
honor back. You will have your father's love. You will have everything you want.
Iroh: Zuko, I am begging you, look into your heart and see what it is that
you truly want.
~ Karen
~ Karen
Nicknames:
"The Dragon Of The West" (His old millitary title)
"Uncle Lazy" (Jun called him that, yet he still had a crush on her?)
"Handsome" (When Aunt Wu was briefly flirting with him!)
"Mushi" (A disliked alias that Zuku hastilly bestowed on him!)
"His Royal Tea-loving Kookiness" (Azula's such a meanie!)
~ Karen
Favorite images:
Here are some pictures of Uncle Iroh and his very "understanding" nephew, Zuko!
~Karen
For more images of this tea-loving wise man, see Iroh's gallery!
Something different:
Here are some of Uncle Irohs most memorable songs!.
Four Seasons
(Chapter 18)
Winter, spring, summer and fall
Winter, spring, summer and fall
Four seasons, four loves
Four seasons for love
The Girls Of Ba-Sing-Se
(Chapter 24)
It's a long, long way to Ba-Sing-Se
But the girls in the city, they look so pretty
And they kiss so sweet that you've really got to meet
The girls of Ba-Sing-Se
Soldier Boy
(Chapter 35)
Leaves from the vine
Falling so slow
Like fragile, tiny shells
Drifting in the cold
Little soldier boy
Come marching home
Brave soldier boy
Comes marching home
~ Karen
Uncle Iroh's song in "Tales of Ba Sing
Se"
(Season: Second season, Earth
Episode: Chapter 15: The Tales of Ba Sing Se)
Leaves from the vine
Falling so slow
Like fragile tiny shells
drifting in the foam
Little soldier boy
come marching home
Brave soldier boy
comes marching home
~ Rando The Amazing
Pics and description contributed by Karen