22. Soldier
For the first time in weeks, Zhao's uniform was clean.
Fire Nation banners fluttered in the breeze. Tendrils of smoke rose from ceremonial torches.
"We have gathered here today to commemorate the completion of your training," his commander said, marching down the line. Zhao squared his shoulders as his superior passed. Finally, his hard work was about to pay off.
"Each of you has chosen to serve the Fire Nation. It is only with your service that we may triumph. Go forth now as soldiers!"
Zhao grinned, bowing with the rest of his unit. It all begins today, he thought.
23. Mountaintop
Oma hiked up the mountain trail, shifting her gathering basket so it sat comfortably on her shoulders.
"Grandma, if you send me up here for flowers one more time . . ." she grumbled, knowing her grandmother was far away, making gifts for the warriors.
"Flowers, huh?"
Oma's head snapped up. A black-haired man towered over her, standing at the tip of the mountain. Her heart quickened, part fear and part attraction. Fear because he was a stranger, which meant he was an enemy. Attraction because he was, well, attractive. "Who are you?"
He grinned. "You can call me Shu."
24. Deserter
Jeong Jeong looked back at the camp and grieved for the life he was about to abandon.
But there was nothing else he could do. He couldn't continue working under Ozai's oppressive regime, or retire and teach firebending to young soldiers knowing fire brought only pain and destruction. His only skills related to the Fire Nation's military training and his limited survival experience, which meant he was fit only for menial labor if he merely tried to retire.
No, he thought, turning away and walking down the dirt path. All I can do now is keep myself from looking back.