She isn't quite sure what Shan meant about sorting out the gifts. Usually when others gave you presents, it would be rude to put them in an old dusty storage. The pile of objects are tokens of appreciation from many prominent households, wishing to obtain a future government official's favor.

To put it bluntly, it's like bribery. Usually when Ba Sing Se gets a new Zhuangyuan, many Upper Ring aristocracy would congratulate them in this manner. Being the daughter of a small village chief, she is all too familiar with such practices. It exploits the natural human tendency that incentivize lowly acts, preying on those who are hesitant to offend those who treated you well. By securing someone's loyalty with lavish gifts, it forces them to return the same kindness unless the recipient wants to be view dishonorably.

Folks at her village's pier commonly embroiled themselves into petty disputes, whether if it's the price of fish or starting fights for the most puerile reasons. For example, a fisherman might pick a fight with the village blacksmith, whenever they bring the issue to village chief, one side would try to nudge the winning odds into their favors. The fisherman might visit their home, giving them a free salmon as a good will present. The best way for her father to deal with informal bribery is simply to not accept it at all. But Shan hasn't demonstrated such restraint, or in other words, here it is culturally unacceptable for a Zhuangyuan scholar to not accept the gifts.

But what will he do if a member of the aristocracy has a special request that may not be coherent with the city's laws?

She thought about it but remembers that these matters meant nothing compared to helping her sister.

The reorganization continues. The pile gradually dwindles as most made it on the shelves inside the storage. She made few short trips between the dusty storage and the northern chamber, because Shan only wanted the most 'useful' item for display. The gifts are mostly expensive porcelain vases with elaborate imagery of nature or animals. She placed them on the floor, Shan simply instructed to put the best one in an empty place on the shelf, not even glancing at them before returning to write a calligraphy scroll.

"These aristocrats are so predictable," Shan casually commented while focusing deeply on the brush strokes. He weaved the words like art, making the syllables sharp and concise. Sometimes she couldn't help but stole a few glances as his slender right-hand dances above the paper. "It's not hard to know that most of these pots are made by the same person. The more there is of something, the less value each becomes. Choose one of them for display on my shelf, the rest can go straight back into the storage's closet."

Mayumi examined all the vases. Each have its own unique characteristics, bringing individual elegance in the craftmanship. Despite remaining doubtful they all belong to the same creator. She wouldn't dare say those thoughts out loud. One thing is certain, accidentally dropping these would result in immediate disintegration, one broken pot likely worth more than the monthly apartment rent.

"So, what are you waiting for? Choose one." Shan motioned her to pick one vase to put in the room's shelf. Yet, it was an impossible choice. In her eyes, none of these jardiniere are above the others. The renown craftsman devoted all his talent, treating these creation-like children, each are unique and special. But in this circumstance, there is no leisure in glamouring art.

After scouring through dozens of pricy porcelains, one particular piece did catch her eyes. It's a white porcelain gourd bottle with blue tree imagery. It felt like a priceless antique, one that can only be fetched in the Upper Ring auction house, if there even is one. She carefully held it up and arrived in front of the White Scholar, whose head remain fixated on writing. It did take a while for him to finally lift that stone face up.

"What's this?" He asked.

Mayumi sensed a subtle annoyance in the tone. She quickly explained this gourd bottle's origin, as concise as possible. The gentleman's face didn't experience any change of mood upon hearing that it came from the two Ganjinese brothers, the duo who have an obsession with cleanliness. Out of all the porcelain pots, this one at least looks more out of the ordinary.

It's excessively polished.

Shan glanced at the porcelain gourd bottle, and then to the other ones. He asked Mayumi what exact reason with this particular choice is.

"I didn't choose this item solely because of its vanity," she replied with a modest tone. "The smaller size of this clay bottle fits perfectly into that empty compartment near the door. The colors felt refreshing comparing to the rest of the room and makes a great decoration through its variety. I am certain its placement would allow the guest to notice it faster. There is no greater joy for the sender to see the recipient cherishing a gift in this way." Of course, Shan most likely couldn't care any less about this vase. But again, almost everyone acts different from their true selves, that is one quirk in living in Ba Sing Se. There is also another reason. She sniffed her nose, confirming that her mind did not play tricks. There is a very strong smell of fermented sorghum, sharp and abrupt, much more potent than the Kheshig's fermented milk. Some of the finest liquor often fetch for a high price. "There is also wine inside the bottle, putting it here meant it wouldn't be spoiled easily." She added, putting a light smile, which didn't very matter in the end. It's fortunate Mayumi didn't spill any nonsense about Feng Shui, the Earth Kingdom geomancy on interior design. To her, the porcelain simply looks good at a particular spot, that is all.

For a moment, Shan appeared slightly surprised that a 'former stage performer' would even consider such factors. Not dwelling too much on it, he soon returned to writing. "Very well then, it would be useful during a surprised visit by the Ganjinese patriarch."

This Patriarch is likely a highly respected figure here, even outside of the Ganjinese community. Mayumi thought to herself, whoever he is, it is likely an elder with great influence in the Upper Ring and possess an excessive obsession to cleanliness, just like the duo who gifted the porcelain gourd bottle.

After gently shoving the object in the place she desired, the rearrangement continues in the storage room, utilizing whatever tiny space there are. The more Mayumi dived through the task, the more expensive the items become. There are multitudes of extravagant gifts bestowed by Upper Ring families such fine silk robes and rare herbal tea. There is even a chest of blatant gold coins and shiny sycees. The sender of the last one didn't even try to galvanize their bribery as a gift. It even has a written note, proclaiming that from now on, Shan must help them gain political benefits once instated within the bureaucracy.

She sighed. Looking at these lavish gifts to win over the scholar's support, clearly Mayumi have underestimated Shan's value and the ambitions of certain aristocrats. Here in Ba Sing Se, the more intelligent a person is, the more respected and useful they become in the hierarchy. As a renowned scholar, Shan naturally will have investors lining up to praise him, wishing to capitalize on his eventual ascension as a high ranking official. Which is why these wealthy Upper Ring families are willing to pay hefty prices for the gifts, which most will unfortunately remain in the storage as Shan intended. Perhaps few might be displayed in his room, understanding this legalist's mindset, it is assumed that practical usage is prized above beauty.

The bribery bizarreness didn't end with the gifts. There is even a large pile of already opened letters from clan leaders, who wish to betroth their daughters, securing familial alliance with the prominent scholar. She swiped the forehead, just reading through one of letters felt mentally exhausting. One father described his daughter's complexions akin to spring itself, the heart is as pure as a natural gleaning river. Such obvious cliché highlighted the writer's hubris. It wouldn't be surprising if this is from a hired scholar who provided cheaper services. Hence, the Kyoshi Warrior would be more impressed if the elegant lady in question even has a say in this. Often times, marriage is not done out of love. For those high above in society, marriage is a combination of two families or clans. The true aim is to combine the two households into one, sharing resources, wealth and power. This helps to increase their chances of survival, both financially and socially.

For the aristocrats who wish to gain Shan as a son-in-law, their goal is to secure someone whom they can trust and do their bidding easily. Who else is better to bail you out of official punishments and embezzle fund beside family? But still, the petty wishes of these fathers are trivial compared to Te Gaogui's intentions. At least she has a rather understandable cause to help her people, even if the method is archaic. While Mayumi couldn't find a letter from the Te clan, someone as reputable as Lady Te would have the most likelihood of getting what she wanted. Being the most elegant lady in the Upper Ring, naturally Gaogui would be paired with someone of great caliber despite how humiliating her father.

Mayumi gulped her throat, hoping that the Te clan don't pay them a surprise visit. It would be quite the stir up, knowing that Te Laoye will stubbornly berate Shan for the lack of respect. But that would be for Shan to worry about, not her. The people of Ba Sing Se's upper class always play a game of intrigue, just like the many poems and stories she read about past history, it seems that certain aspects of the world still remain the same.

After allocating most of the excess gifts onto the shelves, she turned around upon hearing Shan walking across the yard for inspection. After entering the room, his head traced the walls, nodding once to show that the task is done according to his liking.

She presented him with a green silk wrapping, the same one the Ganjinese brothers used to decorate the porcelain container. It is assumed that he would also want this piece of expensive material as part of inventory.

"Dispose it," Shan ordered. "I don't need a worthless wrapping that has served its purpose."

Mayumi was surprised by the statement. The fine and soft quality of this piece of silk cloth showcased the mastery of the tailor. It compelled her to internally disagree with such wasteful decision. Without saying anything, she shoved it in the kimono's pocket, hoping the new employer wouldn't care too much.

"By the way, what should I do with these?" She directed him to the piled of stacked up letters, all of which might already have been examined by the scholar. There is simply so much parchment in correspondence to the number of Upper Ring household. Each contains the wish to obtain Shan's talent through familial ties. And if she were to fill an entire barrel with them, it will overflow easily. "How will you respond to these letters?" Mayumi wondered, expecting a full marathon of sending replies to many corns of the Upper Ring. Of course, she will be the one physically traveling to those locations, or maybe just go to the nearby post office.

What will Shan the famous White Scholar, Zhuangyuan of this year's Keju exam, handle the advances from powerful and influential households? The senders of these important letters are not some random merchants or a fisherman that can be driven away by force. The aggressors will be persistent until Shan makes the eventual choice which may offend everyone else. But being a respected young scholar in the Upper Ring, he must have plenty of experience with such matters. Who knows, maybe she can steal a few tricks that is useful to ward off future unwanted suitors.

Shan snapped open the white paper fan, cooling himself from a nonexistent heat. "Like the dry leaves that fell when winter strikes, so too I shall cut the cost of firewood."

"Wait, what?" Mayumi grimaced as he strolled out of the dimly lit storage. Since Shan is poetically implying to use these letters as spare firewood, she couldn't tell if he was being extremely clever or woefully careless. Any educated scholar would know that strangled ties with powerful members in society is detrimental to his income. Clients prefer to hire someone whom they are on good terms with. By outright ignoring these aristocratic households, it might be interpreted that Shan is looking down on them. The Zhuangyuan is risking his own positive standing. Although he easily foiled these arrange marriage attempts, the consequences are not being handled in a way that can maintain cordial relations. The Zhuangyuan isn't even trying to be subtle about it!

The biggest problem with foiling arranged marriages is when the initiators still live in the same area. Her own parents performed an exceptional job in dealing with these intricate issues. As the chief, her father utilized intelligence and equivocation skills to smooth things over with the suitors' annoying parents. Thus, ensuring that there will be no resent harbored in the village. Should that fail, they can always depend on more forceful persuasion in the form of a fan wielding matron, menacingly declining such dealings. But the main goal is always to maintain the harmony in the village, aiming to eliminate any social friction between its inhabitants. Yet, Shan broke that golden rule. It's already quite unprecedented when he disrespected the Te family, but snubbing the other ones will incur plenty of political enemies.

"Don't you want to at least give them a response?" Mayumi suggested, halting Shan in his steps. "Formally replying to the many clans even with simple written letters is enough. Not responding is just irresponsible!"

A part of her felt instant regret after uttering those words. She should have taken his personality into the equation. The White Scholar is a strict legalistic, and the content of his Keju said it all. If a meritocratic philosophy is used on the most difficult exam in the world, naturally Shan held it to a very high regard. Thus, practicing it himself. She had a good read of what he wrote on the essay. One line of syllables reveals a small window into this scholar's mind.

Nobles who inherited their titles, positions and privileges must earn their respect through competence. Many of them inevitably fails.

"Is it your place to question, servant?" Shan asked without looking back at her, reminding Mayumi of her place.

She swallowed her throat, choosing next words wisely. Under different circumstances, she can easily overpower this non-bender in a fight, forcing him to submit. But not in this situation. For her, it's either swallowing the pride or hindering her sister's education. "My apologies, for I was too quick with my speech, what I was meant say was-"

"Did you seriously expect me to respond at every single letter sent by the aristocrats?" The scholar interrogated. He is incredulous that she even suggested such flawed action. There was both calm and judgmental tone mixed together, subtly displaying displeasure. Mayumi can only wait out this moment, praying it wouldn't hinder her sister's tuition. "Why should a great mountain ever humble in the face of wildflowers that grew from spoiled dirt? No matter how beautiful each may appear, they all stole from the very soil they look down upon."

She nodded a few times, seemingly agree with his statements. This Zhuangyuan is not one to be trifled with. He has no qualm about disrespecting members of the aristocracy, willing to assert above them all. But this cold and ruthless attitude is enough to make Mayumi cautious. After all, she is also a daughter of a chief. While the transfer of power in their village is not necessarily hereditary, this information is better left unknown to this legalist scholar.

"So, aside from this insignificant matter, is there anything else you wish to confer?"

Hearing Shan, Mayumi suddenly remembered one particular gift, a rather strange one and probably inappropriate. But it's too late now, Shan noticed a box in the corner of the storage, its content hidden within the compartment. Before she can interfere, the scholar walked towards it and retrieved what's inside.

"Why didn't you inform me that we have something like this in the house?" Shan asked.

Mayumi's heart almost dropped. It's clear that he was unaware what's inside each gift box, preferring to delegate such pointless matter. In his hands is a present from the Ximen clan, the most influential Earth Kingdom family in the Upper Ring. The object is entirely wooden, carved in the image of an Earth Kingdom styled temple. The repetitive ticking sound and numbers inside a circle meant this can only be one thing.

An antique clock.

Although there is nothing wrong with the object itself, gifting it to someone else is a huge transgression. According to her father, Earth Kingdom and Fire Nation superstitions forbid using clocks as gifts. This is because it is often associated with death, both words are connected somehow, wishing to end the recipient's life. Just like gifting white flowers and coffin, using objects related to death is considered very dishonorable to the recipient, which is why she wanted to raise this issue in a more convenient moment when Shan might not be angered.

The scholar handed the clock to Mayumi, who was waiting for that anger outburst which never came. For someone who insulted the Te clan, Shan unexpectedly did not spoke bad at the Ximen family. For now.

"This one, I am keeping, place it in my room where I can see it probably." Shan instructed. "If possible, it would be better to eliminate this noise."

Mayumi nodded. It felt almost too easy. Shan should have at least insult the Ximen clan for their indecency. She has checked, and he probably knew, the sender is none other than that disgusting delinquent, Ximen Qing. People like him are exactly the type which Shan wrote about in his essay. The indulgent and ineffective members of society have no place in a perfect meritocracy.

It is most likely the third-place winner is discontent with the result, aiming to poke fun at the first-place graduate. Regardless, the thought process in the minds of aristocracy is something she does not wish to dive into. One scandalous event is enough to destroy a good reputation that took decades to construct.

Both she and the man next to her is already a few feet into this world, a subject of gossip.

"Young master," she addressed formally. "If the clock is too loud, maybe we should hire a-" There she saw that same cold glare again. This time, the pattern did not go unnoticed. It's as if something triggered this unsightly reaction. But there was nothing wrong with suggesting Shan to hire a technician, a quick examination from someone certified in clockmaking can also detect anything suspicious in the gift itself.

...

"There, that should do it." The clock is on a small table in Shan's bedroom. Part of her is still suspicious of this automatic device. If this detestable man named Ximen Qing is exactly like what her colleague suggests, a deviant who is only getting away with his disgusting conduct because of wealth and position, then it's best to interpret his intentions with caution.

As Shan is finishing the calligraphy, Mayumi came over with a small tray of tea and put it on his working table. Just as she was about to reach for the pot and serve some tea, he stopped her.

"It's fine, I will do it myself. Since we are inside my home, actions like these matters little. But in public, you will pour the tea for appearances." Shan grabbed the teapot and helped himself. It's rather strange how this scholar acts differently to other aristocrats. Traditional values demand those in lower position of power to pour tea to their superiors. Yet, it's not all too bad in this case.

The moment Shan took a small sip, his eyes snapped open in surprise. "Hold on, this isn't Gongfu black tea." The scholar turned to Mayumi. "What is the meaning of this?"

Although Shan is not an expert like Hakaru or Shen Nong, he can tell that the withered leaves in the beverage does not belong to black tea. Each petal is mostly red, with a small tinge of blue in the middle.

Mayumi noticed that the scholar's hand trembled temporarily. Taking a deep breath, the gentleman in white sighed, narrowing those pair of thick eyebrows. "It seems that I have carelessly dropped my guard, how...negligent."

Hearing it, the woman in brownish hair worried, but didn't allow her face to act out those concerns. She thought using a few White Dragon bush from her spare inventory would enhance the tea flavor. It might even be beneficial to keep Shan happy, so that he can teach Satchiko without losing motivation. But sensing the rising disapproval, it's clear that her good intentions have created the opposite of the desired outcome.

"Although I appreciate your friendly gesture, what is inside the teapot is not what I specifically requested." Shan emphasized. "I would much prefer you inform me beforehand. You should know that I look down on those couldn't accomplish a task perfectly." He inhaled deeply, staring at Mayumi with a critical stare as she averts eye contact. "Long ago, there was ruler who had two close attendants, one served as the keeper of the crown while the other served as the keeper of the robe. If the keeper of the crown lays a robe on the sleeping Earth King, then both attendants must be put to death."

Mayumi met him again with both confusion and disbelief. "Death? Isn't this ruler going too far? One small mishap is enough to justify the spilling of blood?" Just what kind of grim analogy is Shan espousing here? All she did was add a few extra tea petals that greatly enhances the flavor. Instead of being thankful, the scholar disapproves what she did?

Shan shook his head, almost like a teacher reprimanding an uncultured barbarian. "It was no mishap. This isn't about punishing the two attendants for their kindness." He explained. "What those two did is more serious than you can imagine. The keeper of the crown is guilty of overstepping his office, while the keeper of the robe failed to perform his duty. Both failed to perform what was asked of them."

Mayumi tensed up. She didn't know even the most trivial mishap can garner the reproach of this Fajia scholar. But Shan continued on.

"If the ruler rewards this type of unlawful behavior, then it will encourage them to do more. Eventually, they will devise ambitus plans that may threaten the structure which they are liable to, when that happens, where is order and stability? Can people just act and do whatever they please to gain the ruler's trust? If an administrator is emotionally receptive to lavish gifts and baseless praises, then he is vulnerable to the schemes and selfish ploy by those subordinates. Granting special preference to those who acted beyond their station undermines the very stability any society thrives on. It encourages the possibility of usurpation by the ministers. In a true meritocratic world, one must aim to abolish the selfish element in humans and the maintenance of public order."

Mayumi gave a deep thought about what he said. Earlier, Shan personally poured tea into his own cup. But that was only possible because nowhere was it mandated that herself that carries out the act. But the case is different when she added a few more White Dragon Bush petals into the beverage. Without sanction, it technically disobeys what Shan wanted, and that is Gongfu tea without any alterations. As much as she wanted to argue just how petty this whole ordeal is, it's not the wisest option. Was Shan disappointed that she went beyond her station? Or was it because that he is paranoid, and fear of being poisoned? The latter could be a justifiable reason. But knowing Shan's rather legalistic and meritocratic mindset, he prefers strict order above human kindness, even if dogmatically obeying the law is counterproductive to the presenting goals.

Things do operate very differently compared to the more egalitarian Kyoshi Island, where the age and deed of an individual is more prominent than wealth or birthright. Both her parents have warned about this. Her mother even held a secret meeting without Satchiko's knowledge. In it, the matron detailed Ba Sing Se's excessive adherence to laws and a strict hierarchy. Just because a person is an elder, it does not automatically guarantee respect from the common people. He must be wealthy and powerful. If he is lowborn peasant, a younger nobleman would certainly have greater esteem just through birthright alone. Right now, despite both Mayumi and Shan are similar age, their social standing in Ba Sing Se are worlds apart. One is a 'lowly servant', washing dishes in some rundown eatery in the Lower Ring to provide for a sibling. The other is a renowned scholar who also conquered the world's hardest civil service exam, expected by many to be a leading government official at the top of Ba Sing Se administration. If they are both in places like Kyoshi Island, where the folks wouldn't even care less about professions beside fishing, their social standing very wouldn't be too different. A learned man like Hakaru can perfectly share a meal with a random fisherman and not be judged. Unlike here, it does not break social conservative codes. If anything, it only demonstrates how each of the island's village leader aims to better understand the people's needs without a sophisticated and unnecessary bureaucracy.

The usual village life she is so accustomed has always felt carefree and do not need heavy law enforcement. There is no pressure, knowing that lax rules only punish the worst of the worst. Order and stability are maintained by the will of every villager, not just the Kyoshi Warriors alone. But a complex city will always have regulations that would otherwise feel excessive and even outright unreasonable. She swiped a single trail of sweat flowing from her forehead. Perhaps she needs to repair this transgression with a delicate touch. "This is failing on my behalf, I promise it won't happen again, young ma-"

Mayumi subconsciously stopped her speech. For some reason, she is reminded of that cold piercing glare from the scholar. Looking at Shan again, it seems that his face still retains that boring yet handsome facial feature. But at least this time he doesn't appear angry.

"Very well Takeko," Shan stood up from his chair to take a better look at the calligraphy. "But there will still be consequences for your actions. Your pay will be slightly reduced, just for this week."

A look of surprise flew over Mayumi's face. She successfully suppressed it before Shan notice, replacing it with a calm demeanor. Did her ears play tricks on her? "I thought there would be no pay in this."

"That's what you thought," Shan reminded. "Do you very think I would accept your service without paying a price? I can't expect you to be motivated without incentives. It is also illegal in Ba Sing Se to have unpaid workers."

"But I do have an incentive, a very important one," Mayumi argued without sounding like she is challenging Shan. "I am doing this in exchange for your help on my sister's education."

She can barely notice the unconvinced expression in Shan. Why does he not believe her? While it's great to have another monetary income by working in the scholar's estate, there is of course drawback. By paying for the menial works, Shan effectively neutralizes any opposition that would come should Mayumi be discontent with his side of the deal. It definitely makes it harder to voice her dissatisfaction if Shan fails to help her sister improve the grades.

"It may sound harsh, but I doubt your love for your sister is enough," Shan started to put some of the scrolled-up works into a bamboo external frame backpack, where many of his paintings, poems and calligraphy are inserted into a compartment protected from rain. "Our agreement also aims to quell certain unneeded gossips circulating in the Upper Ring. Yours truly wishes to dispel some these nauseous assumptions conjured by those present on the Keju ceremony." He grabbed the backpack, holding it in front of her face. "All I expect you is to perform the role dutifully without stepping out of bound, for both us and in the eyes of others. Since I cannot accomplish this task alone, naturally you will be rewarded through reasonable payment that is within the legality of the city. Play the role, it should not be that hard since you were also a stage performer."

Mayumi looked at the bamboo backpack. Clearly Shan is indicating that she must be the one to wear it, as they will both later travel to clients who paid for Shan's service as a scholar. By appearing publicly in this fashion, it will establish their relationship as a professional one rather than whatever grotesque imagination those aristocracy conjured. Yet, she is also adamant. The Kyoshi Warrior refuse to agree Shan's earlier statement about familial bond. To her, the motivation provided by family is enough to handle all challenges. It's rather insulting to assume that money is more incentivizing.

There is also one more mistake Shan made. Despite his wish for Mayumi to act like a worker who has always been assisting with trivial tasks, the truth is that she has already been acting. This scholar still believes in her made up story, that Mayumi was once a stage performer whose group has been disbanded, and now tries to live in the city's Lower Ring with a little sister who studies in Ba Sing Se university.

The gentleman still thinks that the woman next to him is Takeko, a mere waitress at Grandma Jin's restaurant. As long as she keeps up with this facade, it should provide a layer of protection in case their wanted posters made it to Ba Sing Se.

There is always a side that each individual would not show to others who are not family or friends. For Mayumi, it's the natural tendency for a Kyoshi Warrior to be suspicious of outsiders, demonstrate warmth only to their loved ones. If playing a role can help those she cherishes, then it's worth the time and effort.

...

The Middle Ring of the city certainly feels more closer to her roots. Without that excessive affluent aesthetic, it's rather refreshing to again gleam on those familiar green roof tiles and slightly less embellished walking paths. With every step she took, Mayumi is reminded about the content within the bamboo backpack. The motion of those scrolls swaying in the container can be felt faintly. Despite being just a bunch of words written on paper, the clients who hired Shan the White Scholar have paid extravagant prices for the calligraphies. The more reputable a scholar becomes in Ba Sing Se, naturally the fees will be higher than some random graduate from the university.

"Where are we heading next?" Mayumi asked, refraining from using the title 'young master'.

"Just a normal restaurant," Shan answered. "A place named Jiulou."

This vague response made her secretly raised an eyebrow. Judging by the position of the sun, it's still not lunchtime yet. The location itself also felt peculiar as it's the anomaly from all the places they went so far, which are residential areas. They went to various households or villas in the Middle Ring. Their job is to deliver written works into the hands of clients, most hired Shan to create world class calligraphy to hang on walls. It's possible the next client is a restaurant owner. From what she observed with a merchant, the more superstitious customers believe that having a renown scholar's work displayed in their home can somehow boost business fortune. A rather funny superstition if she dares say so herself. But then again, ironically the villagers near her home also harbor strange beliefs. Many folks, such as that old innkeeper in the village square, owns a cat to attract income. Now that she thought about it, the standards for those fluffy felines are oddly specific. Almost every time both she and Satchiko ventures near that inn, they are always greeted with a white cat, wearing red collar and yellow bell. For some unknown reason, it even continuous wave one of its paws at anyone passing by...

Satchiko, almost obligatory, are scared out of her wits. She has developed a strong fear towards felines since that one unfortunate incident during childhood, where a random cat on the street scratched her dress. Whenever she meets a cat, the teenage Kyoshi Warrior would always have the tendency to immediately hide behind someone, most of the time, it's behind Mayumi.

Mayumi made a gentle smile behind Shan's back, remembering those younger days on the island. Her sister would always insert herself into various trouble, getting stuck on trees or 'fighting' cats to no avail. Fond memories, those are.

"We are here, Takeko."

Mayumi broke out of her thoughts and look up from the ground. There is a large multistoried ornate building decorated in an abundance amount of green, glided with brown colored stone with the occasional coin shaped symbol iconic to everything that is Earth Kingdom. The building is rather extravagant, much more fancy compared to Jin's humble looking eatery.

"Follow," Shan motioned.

"R-right!" Mayumi trailed after the scholar. She secured the backpack. Although it is extremely light, with the heaviest content being Shan's inkstone, which even an infant can hold without problem. The purpose of carrying this luggage is solely for appearance, to create the impression of a servant doing 'heavy lifting' for a scholar. People will pass it off as just Shan resting his precious writing hands. As exaggerated as it may sound, the hands are of course a scholar's only way to create calligraphy, which the most important skill.

They walked straight into the maintain entrance after Shan briefly talked with the staff member. Apparently, there is a private room arranged. To an inexperienced visitor, one may question why a restaurant would even have private rooms in the first place, aren't people here just to eat the food? But for Mayumi, she knew this is no simple eatery. The entire building utilized its additional floors to build individual rooms that can house customers willing to pay extra to eat in privacy. But the bigger reason for this arrangement is to provide meeting places for more influential and wealthy members. Merchants may book a room to discuss about business dealings. Influential household leaders can hold a small banquet for minor government officials, getting special trade privileges through bribery. To operate this special kind of restaurant, a coordinated chain of command and extra workers must be hired. It would be quite the hassle. While it doesn't appear as busy compared to Jin's restaurant, all those who chose to eat here can pay for the most expensive ingredients gathered around Ba Sing Se. It is only common that they will meet well off members of society and occasionally some upper-class citizens.

The moment they entered the main dining hall, which is populated tables sprawling across the room, eyes gradually turned to them. It's rather uncomfortable for Mayumi to be in the spotlight. But for Shan, who has attended countless social gatherings, is no stranger to playing the role of a well-liked scholar. This is the world he belongs, where time and space gather for a symphony that allows upper class citizens to play a game of flattery and bid for even more prestige.

"Ah Shan!" a brave soul called out. He and his other companions stood up from their tables to greet the White Scholar. They put their hands in a hand gesture to show respect to the famous scholar. Ever since he became a Zhuangyuan, the reputation skyrocketed. Many now saw this young man as a brimming shining star of Ba Sing Se, and inevitably becoming one of the leading members in the government. Anyone who obtained the title of Zhuangyuan will be showed in honor and enjoy an elevated social status that would make even the most affluent household green with envy.

Mayumi kept a respectable distance as Shan worked his way through the room. All around are admirers, praising about the Zhuangyuan's accomplishments and unbounded talent. It's obvious they are all strangers, who only behave like her employer's close friends the moment they walk in. Despite they are showering Shan with compliments and exaggerated flattery, she can sense the ingenuine intentions. It was not malice or jealousy, the respect hurled towards Shan is true, but most simply congratulated him for public formality.

When some of them are out of Shan's line of sight, the brown-haired woman can notice the fading smiles and tired expressions. It's like acting. Once the curtains dropped, they show their true nature.

She glanced at Shan's back, remaining unsure what type of expression is painted on his face. Does the scholar even know about all the dishonest behavior that are occurring behind his back, or maybe he chose to ignore, and plays along to maintain social harmony.

"To think you actually became the number one graduate in the imperial examination, we are all in awe with your accomplishments!" Another flattered. It was followed up with a round warm laughter. Naturally, Shan responded, simply uttering some friendly phrases, the minimal demanded in public opinion interaction.

Briefly, they also discussed about Shan's essay, which are posted all around the city. So far, no one has managed to improve its already established perfection. One of the patrons even lauded Shan for standing against Te Laoye, that bitter old man who is stubborn enough to question the exam's legitimacy.

"I was there this morning, almost felt sorry for Lord Te being pushed around like that, almost," a middle-aged scholarly customer chuckled while sipping tea. Light laughter ensued, everyone except for Shan and Mayumi poked fun at the Te clan's debacle. A bit of drama is always entertaining for the everyday citizens of Ba Sing Se, who are starving for those nobles making a fool out of themselves. But Mayumi cannot agree with their conduct. While Te Laoye may be embarrassing himself in front of the world, it's at least understandable that his motivation came from familial love.

Thankfully, she doesn't have to be in their presence for too long. Both she and Shan climbed the stairs to the second floor where the privately reserved rooms are located. On the way, she ensured that the not so heavy backpack does not touch the ceiling. After lowering her whole body to get through the room entrance, they are greeted with a well-furnished space, a few antique chairs and some smaller stools, with a one large round table at the center.

She went to the end of room to lay down the luggage. Unsure which of the scrolls belongs to the client, she just stood near the wall, waiting for Shan's next instruction. Meanwhile, the gentleman took a seat at the center round table. There is a piece of cloth that covers the top, with another piece of round glass that apparently can rotate the plates of food, allowing easy access for the eaters.

"Some tea please, any would do." Shan rested his elbows on the table, placing his chin on clenched knuckles.

"What type would you like? Mayumi asked. Perhaps he is testing whether or not she might overstep her office again. By asking Shan for something specific, it can help eliminate some risk.

"Any would do." he reiterated.

Mayumi eyes widened slightly. Was this request vague intentionally? If so, Shan might be interested to see how she would react when the order has wide enough range to operate freely. Should she drop some White Dragon Bush to enhance the flavor? But not putting any of it is certainly less risky, and more predictable.

In the end, she went for a predictable and safer route. Just a normal serving of oolong tea from the available teabags in the lounge area. She placed the tray of tea on the tempered circular glass, even testing its rotating ability. How neat. Many people do eat like Kings here in Ba Sing Se, so many dishes can be found on one table, that someone has to modify them so that all the plates of food can be easily distributed.

"So, who is this client you are meeting?" Mayumi asked out of interest. "Must be very high profile, is he a member of an Earth Kingdom clan?"

"False, I consider this gentleman to be above those lowly nepotists." Shan went over to the bamboo backpack, drew out a rolled-up calligraphy and a piece of ink wash painting. He placed them on the rotating tempered glass, positioning them both on his end. "He is a foreigner that hail from across the Mo Ce sea, a learned man and a traveling poet. He came to the Earth Kingdom as a traveler, wants to experience the people and culture, as he would describe it."

"Oh?" Mayumi is intrigued. "Is he from the Fire Nation? What is he doing here in the Earth Kingdom? Isn't he aware that the rest of the continent is at war with one another?"

It was met with Shan's affirming nod. This individual from the Fire Nation must be an interesting fellow, able to gain the respect from the usually cold White Scholar. But why would someone from the Fire Nation risk his life just to visit the unstable continent? As a warrior who trained since her childhood, Mayumi is aware just how dangerous things are in the mainland. With regional warlord fighting each other over land and resources, and the constant threat of bandits, this is no place for a poet. But thankfully, they are in Ba Sing Se, considered to be the safest place in the area.

"Rather reckless, considering how he was almost killed by pirates on the way here. But such is the risk that adventurous travelers are willing to take. They allow their enthusiasm to cloud their judgement, and this client tasked me to create some deeply cultural souvenirs for a friend." Shan blew at his tea, trying to cool it off. "It's a trait that the people of Fire Nation shares, a strong passion to see their goals complete, and with that commitment, I will naturally honor his wishes through my works."

Mayumi felt she has been here before. An enthusiastic tourist from the Fire Nation that came to the Earth Kingdom and almost got harmed by pirates. Doesn't this share a strong similarity to that woman whom she and Satchiko saved? Her mind is foggy but is certain that the tourist works in the Fire Nation royal palace. Perhaps they are driven by the sense of adventure, endangering their lives on this unstable continent ridden with wars, famine and banditry. The Fire Nation certainly do not have the same struggle as mainland, and sometimes she doesn't know why these people are recklessly putting themselves in danger.

She halted her thoughts. It would be hypocritical to claim she herself is not the same. To this day, she still felt guilty to even suggest going to Ba Sing Se on foot. If it wasn't for luck, and meeting the Kheshig under favorable circumstances, they would have been captured by those four benders whose master are still a mystery to them all. It's stressful to maintain everything together. Hopefully, they would not encounter the same problem in Ba Sing Se.

"He is here," Shan notified.

Mayumi temporarily glanced at Shan with shock, without him noticing. Waiting for a few more seconds, her instincts confirmed that someone is walking across the hallway, coming closer to this room from the left side of the building. Years of training in the arts of stealth allows her to detect hidden enemies and anticipate projectiles. Each one of them have heightened hearing and sight. It's a special art passed down from their founder, Avatar Kyoshi herself. It is a unique skill perfected within their order, all for the use of non-benders. Kyoshi Warriors would use that advantage to ambush their less disciplined opponents. Yet this mere scholar, who probably never even touched a sword in his life, manages to detect the new arrival first. As an elite warrior who have been honing her skills her whole life, of course she will notice this.

Perhaps, she is just thinking too much. Shan must have already set an appointment, and it would be rude for the other side to be late. While insignificant on her island, being late in formal meetings is a huge insult, one no scholar would violate easily.

She shifted those pair of blue eyes at the door. A lone young man similar to their age walked in. He also carried a small backpack made of bamboo. The red clothing immediately contrasts the figure with the room's decoration. This client wore a bright red robe with wide sleeves and long overcoats reaching the ankles. Most iconic would that dark cylindrical shaped hat with wide brim on a bamboo frame, attached with strings decorated with many beads.

Mayumi knew people from the Fire Nation have a serious code of conduct when it come to their topknot. That hat must be specifically designed to protect their hair. The outfit was both simple and carried a sense of nobility. It's as if this gentleman exists perfectly between the peasantry and the aristocracy.

Shan stood up, greeting the man. "Long time no see, Seonbi, I hope the weather in Ba Sing Se is to your liking." Both men bowed to each other. The Fire Nation man also took a seat at the center table. Carefully, Mayumi poured a cup of tea for the visitor.

"Oh, thank you!" Seonbi said. He looked back at Shan heading straight into the conversation without wasting too much time. "Well, it's all too fine," Seonbi cracked a polite smiled. "The city is such a vast place, and yet I have still not seen all of it. I was touring the Lower Ring when I heard about the new that you have become the highest scoring graduate, I hope the cost of your famed calligraphy haven't risen in cost!"

Shan responded to Seonbi's humor with a silent shake of the head. "My services are built on trust and merit. In a world that lacks such quality, it is a valuable trait I demand in myself and to others. But rest assured, the cost is still the same."

Seonbi pulled out a few coins from the bamboo backpack. Mayumi noticed he also has other scrolls in the luggage. One looks rather familiar.

"I don't have any Earth Kingdom coins, but are you willing to take these?" Seonbi placed a few currencies on the table's rotating tempered glass. Unlike the usual Earth Kingdom coins that are round with square holes in the center, the Fire Nation uses a currency known as the ban, which are angular shaped objects that is also tiered in the type of metal. Mayumi noticed a few gold pieces, rectangular shaped currency with the Fire Nation insignia. People like Seonbi are willing to pay a heavy price to buy Shan's masterpieces, his famed calligraphy and occasional arts.

"Takeko, please finish this transaction," Shan said.

Mayumi did as he instructed. Her hands touched the cold transparent surface, gently spinning the round piece of glass until Shan's work and those currency switch to opposite ends. As Shan collected the money and put it in his personal silk coin pouch, Seonbi opened the two scrolls to peak at the calligraphy and painting.

"I hope you friend would not be disappointed with her souvenirs," Shan asked with his stonelike face. The tone is rather dull, but there is genuine interest.

"Oh, I am sure she will find these two pieces very eye opening!" Seonbi responded. "She always has a penchant to learn more about the other nations and loves to collect all sorts of objects. To my knowledge, her earliest collection are some Northern Water Tribe baskets. Very interesting, eh? Almost every time I meet her, she would always say about how people should work together, for the common good."

Shan narrowed his eyes sharply. "Oh very? Then she must have great visions, I am sure she would make a fine leader for your people."

Mayumi can sense the skepticism seeping out of the White Scholar's mouth. For the citizens of the fractured Earth Kingdom, being bombarded with countless civil wars and bandit rebellions, the idea of simply working together is no longer childishly, it's plain laughable. It is of course easy for the Fire Nation, which is peaceful, unified and prosperous, to utter these idealistic words. But then again, it's not impossible right?

"About your friend, you never told me her name." Shan made Seonbi suddenly feel uncomfortable. Mayumi is confused, why is Shan prying into the personal lives of his clients? Wouldn't that endanger his future prospects? She looked at Seonbi, who is coughing to recompose himself.

"Well, uh, I doubt her name isn't too important!" Seonbi chuckled lightly as he fiddled the hat beads, hiding the nervousness.

Mayumi sympathies with this traveling poet from the Fire Nation. Sometimes, just talking with Shan almost felt like being interrogated. It takes plenty of courage to face the scholar directly. As a learned poet, Seonbi likely heard about what happened during the Keju ceremony, the news of how the Zhuangyuan humiliated the Te clan and ruined their shiny reputation. Just like herself, most people wish to retain cordial relations with the prominent scholar in white. Often times, it meant feeling that immense pressure of a man who will one day be at the top of this hierarchy.

"She's just a servant who works in the Royal Palace, taking a keen interest in how other societies compare to our own." Seonbi explained calmly. As expected of an equally impressive scholar, Seonbi hold his ground. "She returned from her vacation a month earlier and would be deployed to another town for work. I am simply buying some Earth Kingdom artworks as a gift, a show of appreciation to our years of friendship."

"Very honorable, I see that you value your friend tremendously." Shan enjoyed his tea, not pursuing the conversation further to retain a respectable appearance. But the White Scholar's words mustn't be taken at face value. Insult or complement can be artistically blended into one. Only the most learned individuals may pick up those subtle cues.

Mayumi, meanwhile, felt Seonbi's response is too glaring to ignore. Assuming what he said was true, could it be possible that she and Satchiko have met this friend of Seonbi?

That female tourist who visited their island, could it be her?

"I have heard about your exploits and seen your written piece." Seonbi said. "Not sure how anyone would challenge your views, considering that the majority of us are not taught using a legalistic world view. Philosophical difference often come into play, like how a sculptor and painter debating which of their art form reigns supreme. It's rather unnecessary, as I see merits on both sides."

"Either that is the case, or maybe the pride of those idealistic moralists forbids them to openly accept the truth." Shan harshly doubled down his own position, opening the paper fan to start cooling himself. "To perfectly sum up what I have written, if rulers are so benevolent to their people, why do rebellion and chaos still inevitably occur? Do they seriously believe that allowing discourse to fester can benefit the people? Wouldn't it be better if one with absolute power govern solely in subject's interest?"

This is an obvious challenge to Seonbi, a tiny debate between learned men from two opposing sides of intellect. Most scholars of the Fire Nation and Earth Kingdom both share a similar moralistic view, imploring that rulers must be kind and act akin to a father figure for their respective nations. Doing so can assure that the land and people are governed peacefully without using military coercion, earning the population's trust and respect. But with such idealism, naturally there will be those that champion the opposite, strength through tyranny.

Incompetent benevolence or efficient autocracy? This dilemma has plagued scholars for thousands of years, arguing how countries should be administered.

Rujia argues that the ruler must act with kindness. While Fajia propose autocracy with centralized power at all costs. Shan, who uses the latter as the basis for his essay will naturally be infatuated with this rather style of governance. In his eyes, being benevolent is absolutely pointless if leaders are incompetent, making a fool out of themselves with a romanticized view on morality. His actions obviously drew some ire of many leading moralist scholars and members of the aristocracy. But despite that, none can doubt his skill as a talented writer, able to create excellent essays and is a master calligrapher in the city. A young star that is ever rising, one that is no expected to become part of the new upper echelon.

"I doubt any of those narrow minded and obsolete Earth Kingdom Sages will be able to provide a counterargument to my claims. Wouldn't the world be a better place if the most capable are promoted to the top? Even if a ruler is tyrannical, it's better to have someone competent than fools who believe mere kindness can pacify the subjects." Shan looked at his client straight in the eye. "If you wouldn't mind indulge temporarily on this trivial matter, how would you respond to my claims? Seonbi the poet."

Seonbi stopped fiddling the beads of his hat. He appears to be thinking, devising a masterful counterresponse to Shan.

It's quite a sight to behold for Mayumi, never have she seen scholars from two different nations discussing about philosophy. Compare this to watching two fisherman bargaining salmon price, it's a worthy opportunity to observe and learn.

Obviously, Seonbi naturally does not agree with Shan's assertion that a good leader do not need kindness and benevolence. But what drove these two to have contrasting view certainly stems from the historical context of Earth Kingdom and the Fire Nation.

The former has heavily suffered from ineffective rulers and disastrous domestic policies. Bandit rebellions and civil wars are common even before the present. Poverty is always part of this land like an incurable disease, with a few droughts every year followed by a few decades of famine and endless starvation. All the while, aristocrats earned their positions mostly though familial bonds and the power of major clans. With corruption rampant across the land, the senile and incompetent Earth Monarchs is only the face of this dysfunctional and unorganized nation. Because of the vastness of the continent, Ba Sing Se cannot effectively exert control and rapidly respond when disaster or invasions struck. If there is one thing the Earth Kingdom needed the most, it would be an effective system that guarantees outstanding rulers who are actually capable. Despite the best efforts of Avatar Korra and King Wu in dividing the states into independent entities, powerful family clans can still hold on to power through wealth and familial linage alone. The cycle continues, the blight of the people remains unchanged. Just like the many instances in history, it has led some to believe that benevolent rulers are not needed. Should tyranny be capable of improving the nation, so be it.

The latter is a smaller country, formed from a chain of islands with volcanic activities. With generally centralized power, the Firelord is able to excise control much better than the Earth Monarchy. Creating a more effective system, reforms and security are much more manageable. But unlike the Earth King, whose dynasty can be deposed should a rebellion succeed, the Firelord always enjoyed a more culturally and spiritually significant place in the hearts of the populace. More importantly, they are supreme leaders with absolute power, able to appoint ministers at will. With such powerful autocracy imbued in one person, the Fire Nation is able to quickly develop its industry before the Hundred Year War. A strong military supported by a robust economy, there is no doubt that tyrants can indeed transform a nation into a formidable entity. However, such unchecked power is also what drove the downfall of their nation's reputation. Without challenge or obstacles, the Fire Nation was able to inflict an unrepairable damage to the world, committing countless atrocities which still affects today. Unchecked tyranny without balance would lead to disastrous consequences, a nation cannot consider itself improved if its prosperity is taken from others.

"Before I gave my response, mind if I ask a question which may offend you?" Seonbi asked. Shan waved his fan, expressing his approval through motion. Seonbi sighed, he did not hold back. "Who is that?"

"M-me?" Mayumi looked surprised.

This was quite unexpected. She anticipates that Seonbi would draw glaring examples from the Hundred Year War, how a string of autocrats managed to cause some of the most heinous crimes against the other three nations. The Airbender genocide, the cleansing of the Southern Water Tribe's benders, and the mountain of horrifying massacres across the Earth Kingdom. Even Kyoshi Island was not safe, her village almost burned down had it not been Avatar Aang's help.

All of this destruction can be traced back to those ambitious autocrats that helmed the Fire Nation. If they were to name every atrocity during the war, they would be spending days here just to scratch the surface.

In a duel between intellectuals, lessons from this particular war are more than enough to tear down Shan's argument for a competent leader without restraints. Yet Seonbi chose to be a wildcard, making a move on the Pai Sho board that is entirely not within prediction!

"A mere servant, how does she have anything to do with our philosophical differences?" This unforeseeable question slightly made Shan cautious, but nothing too alarming.

"I can't tell you directly." The poet's withheld made Shan want to know more. Seonbi turned to Mayumi, asking a rather difficult question. "How would you describe your employer?"

The girl didn't know how to respond, this is literally her first day. Besides that, it's often culturally inappropriate to ask about a worker's opinion about their superior.

"Answer as you would normally would, do not hold back," Shan demanded. Instead of bringing reassurance, Mayumi only felt even more pressure. If honestly voicing her disdain for Shan's attack on the Te's family value is allowed, then it might endanger Satchiko's education. But if she embellished some words, painting Shan as more than what he is, it will certainly be interpreted as an insult to his intelligence. What game is this Zhuangyuan even playing?

"He is a demanding but fair person." Mayumi uttered. This is a rather subjective response, one that allows various interpretations without possibly offending the White Scholar. A common trait for legalist scholars like Shan would their focus on a strong adherence to law and punishment. The same could apply to their structured lives, if a person does something wrong, there will be disastrous consequences.

Seonbi lightly smiled, nodding at those words. "I see, then I suppose that is enough to prove my viewpoint...but with time."

Meanwhile, Shan is watching the situation intently, still waiting for an argument from Seonbi on why a ruler must use benevolence above political autocracy. Yet, the poet does not appear interested in responding directly.

"I hope you don't interpret this as me conceding to your viewpoint, Shan, my counterargument to an absolute legalistic society cannot be expressed through the fabric of words alone, my intention is to convince you, so I want you to wait and see it personally." Seonbi said. It's a rather unconventional way of debating, where the result reveals themselves after the discussion ended. Usually, scholars from opposing sides would bring out the best arguments through speeches or written materials. But Shan didn't mind Seonbi's behavior. From the conversation so far, Mayumi sense that the White Scholar view Seonbi as a worthy contender who can challenge and might even improve his Keju essay.

'Very well then," Shan closed his eyes and sighed. "I read you wrong, didn't thought you would give up a direct advance. But yours truly cannot guarantee he will be moved, since I don't understand just exactly what you are planning."

What Shan was referring to is a philosophy known as positive Jing. People the Fire Nation prefer direct action over inaction or evasion. This applies to many aspects of life. In expectation, Seonbi would immediately lay out a number of hard to refute evidence on the flaws of absolute autocracy. Yet, Seonbi's advice for Shan to wait and see is similar to neutral Jing. If this Fire Nation poet intends to persuade Shan, then he has a long term plan up his sleeves, when the most precise moment presents itself, that will be when the counterargument strike the hardest.

"And speaking of your essay, you won't mind if I take one copy as a souvenir for my friend, right?" Seonbi grinned in a friendly manner. Mayumi and Shan both noticed a scrolled-up copy of an essay that was posted in the city. It sat comfortably in Seonbi's backpack, signs of tear indicates that the poet met resistance in retrieving this parchment.

Since Shan has issued such a lavish reward to anyone that can improve his essay, there would be countless bystanders who intends to do so. Even if Shan is confident that no one is the city can improve what is already perfect, there will still be those who have more financial incentives. As for Seonbi, he does appear to be motivated by the reward, but want to use it as a gift...

"I am surprised that a man like you even managed to get your hands on it," Shan remarked. "The people of the Lower Ring are not the gentlest type."

"No" Seonbi quickly interjected. "I wouldn't do anything that may disadvantage the common people! The one I took is from the Upper Ring. If I take an essay from the Lower Ring, it might rob an opportunity of a hidden talent."

Mayumi imagined how Seonbi obtained a copy, maybe just like her own experience when finding Jin's help wanted poster. To prevent others from obstructing their goals, the first instinct would be to tear the sheet of parchment from the wall and escape! But aside from that trivial matter, it is admirable that Seonbi believe that Shan's reward can help someone in the Lower Ring. His virtues of not coveting wealth are an example many can learn from.

Shan savored the last drop of tea in his cup, concluding this transaction. "Give your friend my best regard, I hope she succeeds in whatever she is doing."

Both men stood up and bowed. In a day alone, Shan managed to sell a painting and a calligraphy at a rewarding price. A scholar is a learned individual specialized in the development of culture and literacy. Like fishermen and artisans, they too can earn a living using their skills in society.

...

"That's the last of it." Mayumi checked the external frame backpack. The contents now lie empty except for Shan's personal writing kit. The only destination now would the residence, the scholar wishes to head home immediately and begin a new round of calligraphy and painting. But on their way to the train station, she did suggest buying some food from the local market.

"Very well, but do not be late," Shan said. He reaches inside his robe and pull out the personal coin pouch. "The price of food in the Middle Ring is more expensive than where you came from, use these reasonably. You may source any ingredients. The location does not matter.

"But it's your money." Reluctantly, Mayumi accepted the fund. It's the same coin pouch containing Shan's earning of today. She knew this might a sort of test. The word reasonably could mean many things in various context.

There is a district where fresh produce can be brought, it's near the same place where she brought ingredients to cook that egg fried rice which Satchiko enjoyed. But's it's not in the Middle Ring, but in the Lower district closer to agrarian zone. Judging by Shan's instructions, the location does not matter to him. Thankfully, the monorail's speed allows her to get there immediately. She went pass the section where crops are sold. Upon arrival, Mayumi immediately realized majority of the items are delicacies such as the famous noodles with soybean paste or wheaten cake boil in meat broth. While every single one looks very appetizing, none are suitable as cooking ingredients. It took her a while before finding the exact shop that sell the ingredient she specializes.

"How much for this grass carp?" Mayumi pointed at a fish laid across a pile of ice. Years of cooking ohaw soup and citatap helps her pick out the freshest ingredient from the ocean. But tiny details in the broken fish scales meant it's not as fresh as the ones caught by her own people. It must have been here for more than a week...

"Five silver pieces," the fishmonger said. "This species is very popular in the Upper Ring, a recommended choice for the famous dish named the West Lake Vinegar Fish."

Mayumi grimaced. It's more expensive than anticipated. Currency is measured in the value of the metal. Back on Kyoshi Island, a usual salmon freshly caught in the ocean is no more than two copper coins, a very affordable price even for the poorest villager. They sometimes even use shells to trade. Such favorable condition is only possible because of abundance, most villagers near her home depend on the ocean for food, naturally majority will just go catch fish themselves. But here, the economy is drastically different. Most citizens within the urban areas are artisans and laborers. Fishermen are in the minority, and most of the population depend on the massive agriculture farms to feed themselves. This also explains why ingredients such as vegetables and eggs are much more affordable than seafood. But there is one thing she does not understand. Unlike many landlocked states or towns controlled by ineffective leaders, Ba Sing Se is the food capital of the Earth Kingdom, enjoying two seasons of spring and an ocean right on its doorsteps. But why does this fish feel so decayed?

"Excuse me, may you please tell me where this is caught?" Mayumi asked.

"The Northern Water Tribe," the fishmonger answered with a displeased look. "Got a problem with that?"

"No, it's fine," Mayumi quickly answered.

Of course, comparing non-bender fishermen from the Earth Kingdom to Water Tribe Waterbenders, the former can be a master and still cannot surpass the latter in scale and intensity. The ability to manipulate water allows one to literally pluck massive amounts of fish from the ocean. Since wages for someone in the Water Tribe is lower than the average peasant here, many fishmongers may choose their foreign neighbor for supplies. At the end, it's all about which option makes the most profit. If outsourcing work to other people beside your countrymen can indeed cut down the cost, how can any business owners resist?

"So, are you buying the fish or not?" The fishmonger demanded. "I sell the freshest fish in the city, take it or leave it!"

Even though it is a very bold claim, Mayumi knew bargaining the price might not be favorable. Subjectively, the condition of the pricy fish is also not fresh enough for a good soup. When Shan said to utilize the funds reasonably, he meant to spend it wisely and not on poor financial choices. But fish is the most familiar ingredient to her people's cuisine. What should she do? Searching for another fishmonger might meant being late in returning to the Upper Ring. But buying other ingredients meant Mayumi cannot fully demonstrate Kyoshi Island's unique culinary. Why would Shan want to eat a simple dish like egg fried rice when he can literally order something more delectable in an upper-class restaurant? He is a member of the Upper Ring, a poorly conceived lunch is probably enough to make him question the validity of their deal.

This is quite the dilemma.

"Excuse me," a young voice of a female called out. "I am a little lost, do you know the location of Hong Xiuquan teahouse in the Lower Ring?"

Mayumi turned around. Facing the stranger who is behind her. She is always willing to help random passengers who are seeking direction.

The figure in front of her wears a long brown hood that almost touches the ground. But upon seeing the dark raven hair and slightly red garment, she froze. They are supposed to be safer here within Ba Sing Se, a place with no war. Every inch of her face paused as a chilling feeling speed down the spine, including withholding breathing as the mind fights to realize the situation.

"Hello?" the young woman asked again. "I-is everything alright?"

Mayumi felt words are caught in her lungs, hard to speak, and afraid that stuttering may arouse suspicion.

Even though it's hard to sneak up on a Kyoshi Warrior, in a populated place like a market, an attacker can easily disguise themselves as part of the crowd. Of course, despite having environmental awareness with her intuition, the identity of the opponent can only be verified through sight and hearing.

"Hi, I am new to this city, but I am wondering if you know where I can find Hong Xiuquan's teahouse?" The young woman asked again.

"N-not sure." Mayumi wasn't lying when she said that.

The Lower Ring is a massive district, spanning across miles with countless overgrowth buildings. But that is not what she is concerned about. The Firebender, the same renegade who tried to kidnap her sister, is here, right in this Lower Ring market! But how? Wasn't she handed over to Master Tenzin by the Kheshig? Shouldn't she have been punished for harming others? Just how is someone like her managed to make it pass the walls without being detected?

Those questions cannot be answered now. If people who belongs to the same group that dare try to harm her home and people, then she must not hesitate to eliminate the threat.

Her skin can feel the two cold metal fans still retracted underneath the kimono. Those sharp golden blades are enough to heavily injure an individual. If cutting at vital spots such as the neck, the effect would be fatal. But for the entirely of her life, Mayumi never truly killed someone. Even if she can bring herself to slice the neck of this brigand, is the surrounding environment even suitable?

"Mum, I want that snack!" a little boy cried. He is about the age of four, having a bright curvy smile on the face. Even if the off duty Kyoshi Warrior is willing to bear the consequences of publicly killing someone, wouldn't the sight of blood be spurting out of this woman's neck scar him for life?

"Very well then, sorry to bother you." The woman with dark hair politely said. She turned away, walking into another street. Mayumi reached out her hand, just standing still, struggling to decide what to do next. It all happened too quickly. Usually, she and her sisters can easily fight pirates and defeat them. But that was on the beaches of Kyoshi Island, their own turf. At home, there is of course no consequences for killing or maiming an invader. According to the simple rules in her village, a Kyoshi Warrior is part of the authority, acting as guards. Even so, a random fisherman is also allowed to kill robbers and suffer no consequences.

But here? The rules are much more complex. Killing someone, even if they are evil, would attract every one of those so-called cultural guardians to this market. Both she and Satchiko already have a bounty on their head, exposing themselves to the local authority would risk everything they have achieved so far.

So far, they retain a low presence in Ba Sing Se, trying their best to not interact with members of the authority and share background information. Mayumi thanked the spirit of Avatar Kyoshi she wasn't recognized. It seems the face paint was an excellent disguise, even when not being applied.

This young woman, the leader of the four bending bandits, must still be after them because their master. She didn't even anticipate that such people can even trace them to here, clearly their fanatical conviction is stronger than previously anticipated.

But what should she do? If this brigand is let wondering the city, her sister might be in danger! Should the authority be warned? No, that would risk their status as well. The more people who know their identity, the riskier it is to be in the city.

"Hey!" the fishmonger snapped. "If you are not buying anything, step aside!"

...

She stirred the wok pot carefully, its content balancing each other out in a careful harmony, flavors working together to form a cohesive stew. At the end, she still brought that carp from the fishmonger, along with some additional vegetables that can help suppress the fish's odor.

Unlike the abomination created by the world's worst chef, the nomad named Jargal, Mayumi is certain this soup won't give food poisoning. It's actually a challenge to work in a poorly maintained kitchen, this hasn't been used for decades judging by the barely working stove.

The cooking station needs firewood to power, but Shan's supply is already charred, unsuitable as fuel. So, just as he suggested, those letters from the wealthy and influential households would be used as substitute. They burned quickly, handfuls of them are fed each time as flame's insatiable hunger wishes to devour more. She can only imagine the shock and disbelief by those clan patriarchs should they discover Shan's conduct. Not only did the Zhuangyuan ignored, refusing the hands of these clan leader's daughters through betrothal, but the burning of these letters would also be a direct insult, and can garner massive consequences. If Shan even cared about saving face, then he would at least formally reply.

What happens within this compound, stays in it. No one can recognize their beautifully crafted letters if they are charred. Even if those prideful Upper Ring families do come to Shan's doorstep and asking for trouble, it would be his problem.

In the process of reading through those flowery and patronizing parchments, there is one that caught her interest. It wasn't a letter, but a piece of paper with colorful scribbles of what appears to be a group of children. They are smiling, all stood underneath a large tallow tree. But what baffles her the most is also what appears to be a person wearing white, also containing a wide warm smile. It's obviously a depiction of Shan, albeit the unimpressive painter's skill is on the same scale as a child. But from the current interaction with this scholar, his face never produced something even resembles a grin. The whole time, he wore a rather stonelike face, occasionally relaxed but never smile once. She doubts the painter even knows this scholar enough.

The background is full of nature, with only a few houses sparely populated the hills. Sections of the great wall is also visible. Judging by the content of the unimpressive drawing and the lack of beautiful packaging, she assumes that the sender must not be an Upper Ring clan. The Lower Ring perhaps? But that area is sprawling with buildings. Maybe it's from a small village in the agrarian zone. Why would they send something like this to Shan? What are his ties with these people anyway? Maybe he must have visited a school as a scholar, teaching kids about knowledge and fulfilling his duty as a learned man. Maybe somewhat similar to her father?

But that is unlikely. Shan is simply too cold hearted for that. Perhaps this is a sort of prank. But something about this drawing prevented her from tossing it into the inferno.

She then poured half the soup into a large bowl. While the cook isn't exactly certain what type of substance these Upper Ring folks enjoy, this soup should hopefully be enough. As long as she is not reprimanded, it would be fine.

The soup is placed on a tray and handed to the garden. It found its way onto the outdoor table. The bowl's heat immediately warms the cold hard surface.

With the help of the noon's sun, the soup appears more appetizing, surely it can at least somewhat compete with Upper Ring's cuisine. This moment reminds her about what Ganbaatar said, describing the world sometimes as a messy soup. A society can often maintain only an appearance of peace and stability, but sometimes the crack can show themselves through shreds of uncertainty. For Ba Sing Se, a large metropolis with a sophisticated bureaucracy and immense population, even one unstable element is enough to threaten the carefully maintained harmony.

She stood next to the table, waiting for Shan to come out from the workplace. This harmony, this peace, now feels disturbed. No matter how much work a gardener tries to maintain an area, a few weeds can always regrow. Drawing examples from history and personal experiences, many will complacent themselves, refusing to admit a looming threat. This is very true to those who govern towns or cities that will be invaded.

Mayumi sighed. What should she do? A huge pressure has been placed onto her shoulders, along with the knowledge that the Firebender so close to them.

Alerting the authority about a bandit infiltration is also not plausible, as it will inevitably attract attention. However, since this bandit named Huo is searching only for them secretly, there is a few advantages she can utilize.

First, the enemy cannot recognize them without the face paint. Second, if this villainess is also trying to hide from authority, then perhaps there is a secret den, far from the public's eye. This matter can be taken cared of silently. Even if the city's cultural guardians ever find a dead body, it would still be hard to trace it to Takeko, a random girl who works as a dishwasher and for Shan as a servant. To make it even more untraceable, she could just burn the physical evidence and-

"No, what am I even doing?" Mayumi cupped the side of her face, surprised that she even thought about such horrifying methods. Their parents always taught them to demonstrate honor and bravery. Their parents emphasized that they must stem their strength in defending the weak. Yet, the thought of her sister being harmed is all it takes to commit murder. Perhaps Temujin's teachings is having a profound effect. That desire to protect your loved ones is enough to mentally justify the violence she capable of. Yet, the Kyoshi Warrior remains hesitant to fully believe the Khan's words.

You kill, even if you don't want to.

Mayumi clenched her fist. Obviously, she cannot just stand idle and do nothing. If that bandit wishes to harm her sister and Kyoshi Island, then some action must be taken!

The door to Shan's room opened. The White Scholar himself appears to have finished some writing and finally decided to have lunch. He strolled down the stone stairs, leading on the path until he sat on one of the stone stationary chairs. Using a silver spoon to check the content, his face slightly changed upon noticing the meat.

"Is this...fish?" Shan asked. A hint of the tone indicates slight disgust but didn't fault the one who cooked the soup. It's rather strange to see him be confronted with food, knowing that he faced off the Te clan and have the nerve to ignore the other powerful households.

Mayumi answered carefully. "Indeed, is there a problem?"

"Not at all," Shan chose not to put down the spoon. "It was my fault for not specifying, you performed that task just as it has intended." He said nothing more. But clearly Shan's bane on the tongue are creatures from the sea. Sadly, being raised near one, food from the ocean is what she is most familiar with.

The scholar's earlier statement to 'use any ingredients', has been perfectly carried out. The funds are used reasonably. The food is delectable to normal people. According to his own endorsed philosophy, it would be his own fault for issuing such versatile orders. Mayumi managed to grasp a bit more into Shan's mindset and the strictness of legalism. Each word in a command holds depth, a misinterpretation of one can spell consequences. But as long as a task has maneuverability, the work shouldn't be too hard.

"If you don't like the fish soup, I can just try make som-"

"No!" Shan immediately interjected, catching her by surprise. "I will have it."

Mayumi knew he was serious. Despite disliking fish, the scholar gradually musters enough courage to scoop one spoonful. His face displays a hinge of discomfort. In hindsight, any citizen from Ba Sing Se might be shocked by the appearance of her people's cuisine. This soup, the ohaw, is a mixture of carp, kelp and some other vegetables blended together. For a normal citizen, it would not be a problem to stomach. If they can skim pass its appearance, it's just as delicious as some restaurant meal. But upper-class members of Ba Sing Se always carried some sort of bias against food enjoyed by 'commoners'. They may especially frown upon food from distant lands that are considered 'barbaric'.

Shan took one bite from a piece of fish fillet, suppressing the desire to spit it out despite his intolerant tongue. It's uncomfortable to watch. This is the first time she witnesses the White Scholar being subjected to 'torment'. shredding his dignity with it.

"You don't have to force yourself," Mayumi suggested. But it fell on deaf ears. Shan is not only merciless to those who have wronged him, this gentleman is also stubbornly adherent to a legalistic mindset.

While Shan is being consistent with his own adored philosophy, which advocates strong following to rules and competent leaders, she felt this situation is simply too unimportant. He isn't trying to be nice. Shan simply does not wish to give exemptions for personal actions. A normal individual would likely not eat something they dislike, but in the context of this minor situation with food, Shan dug his own grave.

Perhaps the scholar is also unwilling to admit superficial flaws, aiming to preserve a sense of perfection. A Zhuangyuan is a prestigious title granted to the greatest scholars, they are essentially near the top of the city's hierarchy. Historically, they became stellar officials, earning the admiration of the people and the favor of monarchs. Some even got the opportunity to marry princesses from royal lineages. With such high expectations, it's rather underwhelming when looking at the newest Zhuangyuan, torturing himself by his most hated food, fish.

It first started with a small bite that is excruciating to swallow, then he gradually consumed the soup itself, which is also induced with the flavor of the carp. Despite the sight of kelp in the food, Shan didn't stop. He painfully continued, gulping down small chunks of the fish just as any upper-class citizen would do. Throughout the process, he kept the ugly expression to the minimal. With the presence of another individual, he is almost forbidden to be true to himself.

"This dish, I wonder where you learnt it," Shan asked. Mayumi worried. Giving away too much detail might reveal her true identity.

It was a valid question, nowhere in Ba Sing Se's high culture cuisine can the ohaw soup like this be found. The tastebuds of the people here don't commonly use kelp as part of their cooking. As proud Yokoyan from Kyoshi Island, Mayumi naturally can tolerate heavier fish odor.

"It's from a village near the sea, I performed there, a kind older woman taught me how to make this fish soup. Ever since then, I have been cooking it for my sister." Mayumi phrased her words carefully, which are not actually lies, but are structured to be vague enough, just for Shan to not suspect that it's Kyoshi Island. Performance is training. The kind older woman is her mother, albeit very strict and picky when it comes to sourcing the best ingredients. If she doesn't get what she wanted at the market, the matron to fight for it tooth and nail!

"The people there are kind folks who are excel at fishing, surely you know them, they might have already been documented in one of your works on Earth Kingdom cultures." While she never read a single page out of Shan's book, it is certain that there is least one other fishing village that fit such indistinctive description. But since the Judge of Honghai cannot find the Kyoshi Warriors inside Shan's book, the scholar might never be able to find it too.

Shan brushed his chin. "I see, but this soup is strange, almost foreign." He stared a fish bone poking out of the meat. "My book on the Earth Kingdom culture certainly does not cover all the continent. Though I am interested in writing a second volume." Shan took another sip using the spoon, finishing the remaining portion. "Maybe I might visit that seaside village someday. Do you still remember where that place is?"

Mayumi bite her lips. That must not happen, at least not in the near future. "It's somewhere in the south of Ba Sing Se." She said vaguely. "I'm not even sure what the name of the village is."

Shan looked at his soup, stirring it around, flipping the kelp over the meat. He chose not to ask any further, much to Mayumi's relief. It was then followed by a moment of silence between the two, unsure what to say next.

The young scholar must have been living here alone for years. Most rooms vacant, the central garden have seen better days, and the new owner is obviously not used to having someone else in his home. But under normal protocol, a servant usually stands nearby as the houseowner eats. While this is coherent with most social norms, Shan is certainly not comfortable eating in other people's presence. When talking with Seonbi, or facing down those who displeases him, the White Scholar always carried an air of intimidation and upmost superiority. Through perfection and elegance, he is also a great example to many aspiring scholars who may partake in the next imperial examination. In this society that values education, the more renown a scholar is, the higher he is positioned in everyone's heart. Yet, standing on the grass, Mayumi do not see that. Despite Shan's apparent disdain for the Te family and other noble clans, all he had is an empty house with no one else in it. At this moment, he is just a man eating his lunch alone, and nothing more.

A few birds landed in the courtyard's grass. They must have been attracted by the smell of the soup. Before Mayumi can ask whether she should shoo them away, the scholar spoke first.

"It must be very difficult to perform on a stage in front of the crowd," He commented out of the blue. "An actress must be someone with a thousand different faces, changing each time for various part of the story. To be someone else is a very audacious task. You must contend with a false image, trying not to lose yourself to it. But sometimes, it's more superficial."

"I don't think it's hard," Mayumi countered respectfully. "If that role is truly who we are, then we can use it to help those we cherish the most."

"For example?" Shan said. This is an invitation that she can freely spoke her mind, an opportunity she will not misuse.

"Like being an older sibling, and an important member of a family." Mayumi started. "I have a sister who is studying at the university, naturally I have to do everything to support her. Of course, I never worked at an eatery or as someone's servant, but the thought that it can benefit my sister is enough for me."

Since Satchiko is trying to master Earthbending, as the firstborn, it is Mayumi's duty to see the goal realized. That meant aiding her sister in the quest, protecting and shielding her from harm. It reminded the Kyoshi Warrior just how dangerous the world is to them all. She still hasn't devised a clear way to eliminate that lone fanatical bender, especially that young woman who somehow infiltrated the city.

Shan doesn't feel convinced by Mayumi's conviction. "While it is honorable to help others in need, is that very your pure intention? If your abandonment from your traveling troupe is just so that a sibling can achieve success in education, what is in it for you?"

Mayumi looked at him with bewilderment. Just how stubborn is this man? Despite both being similar age, Shan seems to have a skewed idea of family value. To the disguised Kyoshi Warrior, it's an insult to even question one's commitment to family. If it wasn't for this specific circumstance, she might even punch this defenseless scholar across the face.

"What is in it for me you asked?" Mayumi suppressed her anger, pretending to be a clueless peasant. "I love my sister, of course I will do everything to help."

"Yes, but you are her senior, and yet she is the one studying at a prestigious learning institution." Shan elicited. "There will come a day when your sister accomplishes more than you. How will you feel then?" He is hinting that anyone who graduates from the university will always be socially above those who work as commoners. If a younger sibling chose to mistreat her elder, and the latter is powerless, what then?

Mayumi thought about this. Once Satchiko mastered Earthbending, will her sister even need help anymore? But such trivial matters are no concerns at all. Their mother only wishes for Satchiko to reach her full potential with Earthbending, that is enough. Familial love should not be complicated by conditions and self-interest. As a legalistic Fajia scholar, Shan might not necessarily understand the importance of family. His advocacy for efficient leaders above benevolence might have played a strong role in defining such unhealthy perspective.

"Even if she somehow outshines me, it's fine," Mayumi stated with a light smile, thinking about that very day her sister enters the world. "That's what family is for, helping each other in times of need, it's about sacrifices and expecting no return."

The sound of gripping and hand stiffening can be heard from that silver spoon. It was gone the moment her blue eyes shifted to Shan.

"An interesting response," Shan answered with a cold tone. "I suppose playing a role can meant different things to different people. For me, we all play a role that is not our true self for the sack of appearances. We all hide a side we do not wish to be shown to others, we all harbor secrets that not even our most trusted confidants must know. All is done to ensure the preservation of the self, disguised as benefiting others. The same can be said for our city and its people."

Mayumi can somewhat agree with his point. Shan is a renowned scholar, people shower him with gifts, admiration and an endless amount of formal pleasantry to gain his acknowledgment. But most are driven by selfish reasons. All the gifts and betrothal letters are sent to earn Shan's loyalty, which are disingenuous and deceitful. The wealthy households are after his utility as a future member of Ba Sing Se's upper echelon, many are even willing to trade their daughter's hand in marriage. But if Shan is just lowly peasant, scraping his life in the Lower Ring, would these major families still treat him the same? Of course not.

When arguing from such perspective, Shan does have a point. But this doesn't apply to her own family. The four of them are motivated by the desire to live happily, and that's it. Is there very a need to overcomplicate?

But at last, there is vast difference between Kyoshi Island and Ba Sing Se. Wealth, titles and pride are enough to cloud one's motivation and misdirect them into goals which may harm their loved ones. She has to be careful. Shan being alone in this residential compound might meant he has a troubling past with his family.

Nothing is certain about this scholar that can help. Nothing except for his stubbornness and hatred for seafood.

Shan put down the spoon on the table. She is surprised that he finished the lunch. "I find the meal...satisfying." He probably wasn't referring to the flavor, but by how Mayumi accomplished the task without overstepping her office. It's both strange and reassuring. If this was any other household, and the employer hates the food, Mayumi would have most likely been fired by this instance alone. It seems that the meritocratic Shan has traits that can be...benevolent?

"Thank you, so will this be the arrangement you are suitable with?" Mayumi asked. They previously agreed that she would work for Shan in exchange for helping Satchiko improve in education. Her contract details that the service would end until her sister finishes the studying. Until then, she will have access to the keys of the courtyard and may freely use the western section of the siheyuan as a living space. The one redlines she must never set a foot into the eastern chamber, which is off limit by Shan's order.

"Well then, for the reminder of tonight, there is nothing specific for you to do," Shan got up from the chair and headed back to his study room, presumably to finish more calligraphy for his wealthy clients. "As for dinner, I will handle it. In the meanwhile, you can take care of anything you wish."

Mayumi nodded. But quickly halted Shan in his steps. "I might not be able to return tonight. There is a personal matter I must take care of."

"Oh?" Shan is curious. "And what would that be Takeko?"

"I want to do something to help my sister," Mayumi answered candidly. "Do you know where is Hong Xiuquan's teahouse?"

End of chapter note:

-Shan and Seonbi are both inspired from character archetypes from East Asia soap operas and modern day tv series. They are both supposed to represent a great image of what an ideal educated person looks like (at least that is what I think). The character of Seonbi is inspired by the many paintings created by the legendary artist Kkachi95.