Chapter 71. The Trap.
Ba Sing Se. Capital of the Fire Nation.
Today, I'm scheduled to travel to Shu Jing Island. It's high time I met the famous swordsman Piandao in person. After all, my primary duty is to train the Fire Lord's children, so I can't be gone for too long. Fortunately, the island is just a five-hour sail from the capital.
The harder part was convincing everyone I wasn't leaving for good. Ursa, judging by her hints, seemed to think I'd fallen out of favor with Ozai. Azula, on the other hand, insisted on coming with me and even mustered the courage to ask her father's permission. Needless to say, it was a futile attempt.
"We'll have time to travel together later," I said, smoothing Azula's soft hair one last time.
"Mhmm," she nodded.
"Zuko, don't skip your training," I added.
"When have I ever!" he puffed up, offended by my doubt.
"Ursa, I hope you'll delight us with new plays," I said, turning to Azula and Zuko's mother, who looked somewhat sad.
"I don't want to act in these scenes anymore. For some reason, I always get the stupid roles," she replied. Everyone but you, Zuko, knows why you get those roles...
"I'll be back soon," I waved goodbye, starting my slow walk toward the port.
Last week, Old Jian pulled me aside for a private conversation. He questioned my mental abilities.