Chapter 93. Roku. Gaoling.
The city of Gaoling, and indeed the entire province, can rightfully be called the most prosperous region in all of the Earth Kingdom. Tons of various goods arrive in the city daily, and an equally massive amount of cargo leaves its walls. Even the renowned cities of Omashu and Ba Sing Se pale in comparison. At this moment, the city of the Beifong family serves as the very heart of the nation, pumping life into the entire country. Trade routes, like veins, encircle every province, reaching even the most remote and forgotten villages.
Countless connections and trusted individuals in various circles of society make the Flying Bison practically untouchable. High-ranking officials in the Fire Nation's army are well aware of the economic situation, but the information they've gathered is enough to understand one thing: taking this territory will come at a tremendous cost. The reputation of these traders can stir patriotism even in the most cynical of people. Moreover, a portion of the Earth Kingdom's regular army ensures that enemies don't even dare think of attacking.
"So, how do I look?" Toph asked me with a hint of embarrassment. She was wearing something resembling a traditional Chinese dress—a qipao.
"Absolutely stunning!" I replied without a trace of deceit. Her everyday outfits seemed to shave a few years off her age, but in this festive dress, with a slightly more "grown-up" hairstyle, I realized she was already eleven and a bit.
"Good, let's go for a walk now..." she urged, trying to hide the embarrassment that had already crept in.
"Where's June?" I asked, since she seemed to want to come too.
"She said she changed her mind," Toph answered calmly.
"Hmm, alright, let's go then," I said, though her response seemed a bit suspicious. Still, I decided not to press the issue. "Come on," I extended my hand to her. With so many people around, it was better to hold hands.
"So tender..." she muttered as our hands connected.
"Where are my calluses from training now?" I thought to myself with a slight complaint. Those "intense" training sessions with Roku had left their mark on all of my bodies. So, I wasn't the only one facing such awkward comments. The female staff at the Chief's Palace hadn't given Yuki a moment's peace for the first two days, constantly grilling her about the products she used...
Today, nearly eighty percent of the Earth Kingdom's population is celebrating the "Day of Fertility." One of the oldest festivals, it has been observed for centuries by the people of the Earth and Fire Nations. The Water Tribes, of course, were not involved, as they never practiced agriculture—it's "a bit tricky" to grow anything in eternal snow...