Chapter 74. Werewolves in the Army.
*Roku. Gaoling. Beifong Estate.*
"Still not sleeping?" I sat down beside Toff on the open veranda, inhaling the pleasant scents of the wilderness.
"I can't get enough of this world's flowers," she replied, gazing at the tiny stars in the sky. "I never thought I'd have this chance," she continued softly. "Thank you," she said, resting her head on my shoulder.
"You deserve it," I pulled her closer, facing no objections to such boldness.
We sat in cozy silence, listening to the chirping of nocturnal insects.
"You're already asleep..." I whispered, picking Toff up to carry her to her room. The nights were already quite chilly; it wasn't safe for her to sleep outside.
During our stay at the Beifong Estate, I'd tended to Toff's health and her parents'. After all, I needed healthy, vibrant allies.
We were also actively strategizing the gradual conquest of the Earth Kingdom. To start, we decided to mark every product made by the Beifongs with the symbol of their house—a flying boar—so people would know who provided their essentials. This would be especially useful in Ba Sing Se, where we were sending free aid to its poorer citizens.
At a general assembly attended by Toff's father's trusted advisors, it was decided to promote Lao to the forefront. He was at the peak of his popularity, known throughout the Earth Kingdom, with an excellent reputation and charitable deeds celebrated in all provinces. My candidacy paled in comparison; I was better known as a master earthbender and a fighter for justice. Still, I needed more exposure, so I'd accompany Lao everywhere.
From Yuki's example, I knew how much of a hassle all this paperwork was, and I hoped no one noticed my sheer relief. The Earth Kingdom was nearly five times the size of the Northern Water Tribe, and its population was far greater. It would be easier to defeat the Fire Nation single-handedly than to implement reforms or projects here...
Poor Lao... I wonder if he realizes what kind of burden he's taking on. Though, I've never met a more patriotic person; he'd probably enjoy it. As Poppy confided to her friend, Lao's eyes had been glowing lately, and he'd become tireless in bed... I didn't mean to eavesdrop, but my body reacted faster. If there's whispering, there are secrets, and secrets are information—information is a weapon.