Chapter 126. The Penultimate.
*Southern Pole. Yo and Celine.*
Another day of mine unfolded on the grounds of what was once the abandoned village of the Southern Water Tribe. Thanks to Celine being here, it wasn't so boring. The fluffy white snow that falls year-round had already completely covered the houses I once built.
"One more contest?" I asked, addressing my now more grown-up daughter. She could easily pass for thirteen or fourteen now. Standing tall, she reached my chest. No matter how much I wished she'd stay little, nature takes its course. Her average skill in all three elements and her strong life energy had recently transformed her from a small, sweet dumpling into an equally charming young girl.
"I think that's enough for today," she muttered, glancing around. Wherever you looked, there were ice or snow sculptures. Everything was created without magic—pure physical strength, with a small exception for some cutting techniques made with the help of an element. After all, the ice needed something to cut it.
"Don't give me that pitying look," she said, turning her head away. "You know I don't like it when my feet can't feel the ground," she added, looking at her bare white legs. "And anyway, I have lessons with Mom soon," she continued, though she couldn't help stealing glances at her father, who still acted like a beaten puppy.
"Are you sure the Avatar will appear here?" she asked, wondering if her father was waiting in vain.
"Fifty percent sure!" I replied with a voice that sounded more like a hundred.
"..." Celine didn't even bother commenting on my words. "I'll come back at the same time tomorrow," she said, pulling out a worn-looking scroll from her bag.
"Sweetie, maybe you could put in a word for me too. Dad wants a gift from Wan Shi Tong as well," I said, eyeing the scroll she held. I'd seen it before—it was a map of the most significant places on the planet. Just point to where you want to go, channel some energy, and in a few seconds, you'd be there.
"Uncle Owl said you should develop your abilities and not be lazy," she replied, shaking her head. As much as she loved her father, there was truth in the spirit's words. She wished she could take some of the burden off his shoulders. That desire grew stronger after she witnessed his grueling chakra-opening training... The sound of cracking bones still echoed in her mind. *"I need to become much stronger too!"* she vowed to herself.
"Alright, alright, let's say goodbye then," I said, stepping closer, expecting a hug. *"How did I ever live without this green-haired beauty?"* I wondered.