A few years before the events of the series, Zuko voiced opposition to a general's suggestion that inexperienced Fire Nation soldiers be used as bait in a battle against the Earth Kingdom. Fire Lord Ozai, Zuko's father, ordered Zuko to submit to an Agni Kai, a ritual duel fought with firebending, to teach him respect. Zuko accepted the challenge believing that he would fight the general who proposed the plan, but instead he faced Ozai. When Zuko refused to fight his father, the Fire Lord burned his face, scarring him over his left eye, and sent him into exile. Zuko is told by Ozai that his honor and position would be restored only if he captured the Avatar. Zuko's uncle, the decorated general Iroh, joined him as a companion and tutor.