Chapter 114 - 144
The Fire Lord's Palace. Wan.
Standing with my hands clasped behind my back, I played the role of a wise mentor, watching with growing pride as two generations—father and daughter—sparred. Even Ozai seemed genuinely surprised by Azula's progress, a flicker of something passing through his eyes. Lately, he'd been preoccupied with the Sages, so he'd had less time to oversee his daughter's training. Today was an exception. Ozai had insisted on witnessing my claim that Azula had reached the level of a Firebending Master.
For months, at the girls' request, we'd focused mostly on their teamwork, neglecting Azula's individual training. I was pleased to see she'd continued to improve on her own.
"Ready yourself, Father!" Azula declared, preparing to generate lightning. With a swift circular motion of her hand, a bolt of blue energy shot forward. Her lightning technique alone could outclass half of all masters.
Ozai absorbed the strike with crossed arms, dissipating the energy in all directions. After a brief display of light, the Fire Lord stood unharmed.
"I've seen enough," he finally said. "From this day forward, the Fire Nation has another promising Firebending Master!" He nodded to Azula, who accepted the praise with a calm expression, as if earning such a title was routine. Though I'm certain she'll subtly seek my compliments for days...
"Advisor Wan, your reputation will soar even higher in the coming days," he said, his lips curling into what looked more like a smirk. No doubt he's pleased the Fire Sages will focus even more attention on me...
Why "Advisor Wan"? Thanks to Elder Jiang, who often accompanies Ozai, I've "predicted" several significant moves by the opposing side. Dria and Yo have shown remarkable progress in espionage. The challenge was framing this information as a product of my strategic and logical talents.
My intelligence, delivered through Jiang, has saved many of Ozai's people. Within a week, the Fire Lord took notice of my humble self, recalling my family's lineage. After proving my insights weren't coincidental, I earned his favor and the title of advisor.
I've decided to act more boldly, as Van Shi Tong's plan requires as many Firebenders as possible. The Sages could hinder this, so I've arranged for the rescue of many Firebenders on Earth Kingdom borders. To avoid friendly fire, they surrendered to the Earthbenders. Lao already knows about my other bodies and plans, so he's prepared to accept enemy troops. After all, the two nations will eventually exchange prisoners.
Returning to my estate that day, I quickly noticed someone had searched the place. Thankfully, Roku had done his job well, so the underground floor remained undetected. It felt like my first month in the Palace, every move tracked overtly or covertly. It wasn't just me—this situation strained my time with Ursa, leaving her often unsatisfied. She's grown accustomed to "sweetness"...