Quoted By:
“Actually, you’re coming along with me on my trip. It’s not like the steward holds you in any appreciation.” You reply quite bluntly while getting your clothes ready. The maid can’t hide the shock she feels.
“Me?” She says, surprised. “But I’m… I’m a palace guard. My mother didn’t want me to go to war.”
“You think they’re sending a princess to war?” You reply with a sarcastic tone. “The basics they taught you in the academy were too basic, it seems.”
“Lord Iroh went to war…” She says.
“Uncle was well into his 30s when he started properly commanding troops in the war.” You say, still pondering if you have enough battle uniforms to compensate for them getting charred. “Plus, you’re going with me. I can hold my own very well, you’re just…” You shrug. “An extra kick. You have an hour to pack your things, you are now in my personal service.”
She bows. “I will obey, princess.”
“Yes, very good. Since you’re here. Do you mind gathering up what literature we have on the Air Nomads?” You say.
“According to the master librarian, we don’t have much. I heard the Fire Lord himself reserved some books as well, so the collection will be even more scarce.”
“Just take whatever we have.” You say with a wave of the hand. She bows again and is about to head off.
“Oh and, by the way.” You turn around to face her. “Since this is not some cushy palace job, I’ve seen it fit that your stipend be increased, as well as your mother’s. You are no longer an average palace ‘maid’” You say the word somewhat derisively. “But a proper royal guard.”
A slight smile finally appears on her face. Is that what you sought? “Thank you, princess.” She says.
As she goes and you finalize your packing. You think of something odd. How about writing her mother a letter? To make sure she’s forewarned of this change and that she’ll be safe under you?
You step outside and still see he walking away in the hall, quite far from you. You grab a nearby servant, a young man that gets spooked by the unwanted attention. “Who is she?”
He looks over at the maid and back at you. “Oh uh… That’s Lei La, everyone calls her Lei.”
For some reason, you feel like you should’ve asked her directly. Whatever. “Stay put.” You say.
You head to your desk and get your quill and some parchment. You dip the tip of the quill and begin your letter.
“I write to inform you that your daughter, Lei La, is now one of my royal guard and will travel with me outside of the Fire Nation and towards the Earth Kingdom.
There is no need to fear, as I am able in battle, I bring her because…”
You ponder for a moment.
“Because of her indubitable skills in battle.” Though you haven’t really seen her in battle at all. “and her will and drive to do what is right for the Fire Nation.”
“For this sacrifice, I will increase your current stipend twofold.” And while the economic reassurance will surely be received gratefully…
“And I will ensure that she returns safely to you.
Princess Azula of the Fire Nation.”
