Chapter 119. Preparation
Roku. Research town near Gaoling.
"Check the bindings on the second balloon! And don't forget to inspect the fuel levels!" The loud, commanding voice of the Mechanist's wife echoed every few minutes.
"She deserves a raise!" Lao whispered with a chuckle. "She's been handling two jobs for so long, no matter how overworked she gets," he lamented. It's true—we couldn't find anyone to take even part of Rin's responsibilities. That wise woman had too many talents!
For the world to see the first steerable balloons, all necessary conditions had to be created. That's how the idea was born: to build a new town near Gaoling, with all the required infrastructure, where scientific research and development would take place. This way, students and teachers from Earth University could conduct their studies without traveling long distances.
As Lao once said, "The future belongs to innovation!" His words still carried a hint of hostility toward the Fire Nation—years of war and oppression aren't easily forgotten. Even knowing that in the near future, another version of himself would lead the Fire Nation didn't fully ease his mind. Well, at least I'm glad his efforts don't threaten my plans. Lao simply burns with the desire to show the world that the Earth Kingdom can produce geniuses and lead in technology.
Walking through the newly built town, I saw countless workers and students bustling around ten balloons. They were far from elegant—these hastily made airships were better suited for reconnaissance, as they couldn't reach decent speeds or carry much weight. But plans were already underway to create a full-fledged airship. Slowly, the world would open up to air travel.
"So, a small base is ready to service the balloons?" I asked, hearing important information from Lao. Limited fuel meant direct, nonstop flights to the Fire Nation islands weren't possible—a refueling stop was needed.
"Yes, the staging point is right by the coastline, a stone's throw from the archipelago. They'll decide when to take off from there," he smirked. From what I could tell, Lao would've gladly gone to bomb the Fire Nation himself, but his status and obligations prevented it. "I wonder what their faces will look like when they see our aerial marvel! By the way, your name is listed among the creators! Rin said you inspired her to build the balloon!" Lao happily patted my shoulder. "Let's keep walking. When else will I get to leave Ba Sing Se?" I didn't refuse my old friend. I know how much he does for the country and my plans.
"If only the Sages' people would cluster together nicely..." I thought with some optimism. That way, we could use our limited number of bombs more effectively.
*
Yu Dao. Mayor Morishita's Estate.