Loss

"Uncle? Father sent me to find you..."
The young Prince cautiously peered around the large ornate door that led to the famed General's bedroom, unsure what he would see.
Iroh stood in the middle of the room, back to the door, head bowed, arms folded. His white robe gleamed in the light from the open door, Fire Nation emblems shining everywhere.
Despite the bright nature of the clothing, Zuko knew the outfit for what it was--funeral clothing. Uncle Iroh was still very much in mourning. It seemed only natural--he had lost both his father and his only son in less than two days. Unfortunately, people were starting to talk--not just about his extended mourning, but his monumental loss at Ba Sing Se. Zuko wondered if his uncle heard them; he himself tried not to listen, but the things they were saying...
His thoughts were interrupted by a sniff. He stepped into the room, leaving the door open.
"Uncle?"
"Yes Nephew," Iroh replied, his voice a little thick. "Please send your father my most sincere apologies. I am afraid I still do not have much of an appetite."
"Please, Uncle, you need to eat something." Zuko took a few steps forward. "I worry for you."
"Thank you f-for your concern, but I'm sure my b-belly can withstand t-this..." Iroh attempted a feeble, shaky laugh, then suddenly, he dropped to his knees.
"UNCLE!" The young Prince darted forward, heart pounding. He grabbed his uncle's shoulders, startled to see them shaking uncontrollably. Iroh was sobbing heartbrokenly.
"Oh Uncle..." He wrapped his hands around his uncle's neck. "I'm so so sorry..."
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I know, I'm such a horrible person for putting my favorite "A:tLA" character in such a fanart, but believe me, this was actually a difficult piece to do, due to the emotional intensity.
Surprisingly enough I've only a rabid Iroh fan, not a rabid Zuko fan. However, Zuko brings out the best in Iroh, so all you Zuko fans get to cash in on this, too.

Give dear Iroh and Zuko (and me too, plz!) a hug. They really need one right now.

Iroh and Zuko (c) Mike and Bryan