Avatar Rose: Dawn

Chapter 69: Rose

You know, being completely aware of my surroundings might not be such a good thing. I'm not fighting anymore. My dad thinks I've finally given up. But that's not true. The more and more he trains me, the stronger I get to defeat him.

When I wake up, servants have already gotten me dressed in a ceremonial princess attire. My burns are almost completely healed, leaving a scar, of course. I'm still blind in my left eye.

"What's going on?" I ask, my clothes only being something worn on a special occasion.

"The ceremony, princess," replies a servant as she brushes through my tangled hair as softly as she can. She seems terrified of me, but I've always made sure to be extra nice to them.

After a few hours, I'm led to the massive balcony overlooking the town. People cheer below, chanting "Princess Rose." Ugh. I think I like "Avatar Rose" much better. I smile a little and wave, knowing that's mandatory. Besides, they don't need to know that I'm being held against my will and I'm absolutely miserable.

My Father arrives, clearing his throat for a speech. His voice thunders for all to hear.

"Today is a great day! We have found Princess Rose once again, and she's safe and sound in her rightful place!" He begins.

Cheers follow, and they all look excitedly at me. I forgot what it was like being the most famous person in all the Fire Nation. I hate it.

"With her Avatar abilities, she will be able to win the war for us, so we can spread prosperity and order throughout the world. We are planning a massive raid on the Earth Kingdom, and we will never be defeated again!" He finishes. The crowd goes wild. It takes everything I've got not to roll my eyes.

Afterwards, there's a huge feast. Soldiers with high ranks sit with my dad and I. Nathan is the last to show up, but I avoid his gaze. I pick at my plate quietly.

"Rose, I hate when you do that. Eat the damn food," the FireLord snaps.

"Yes sir," I murmur, taking a bite of mashed potatoes.

He pats me on the head as he always does, making me flinch and tense up even more than I was. Nathan gives me a reassuring smile. But I can tell he's not so reassured himself.

"That control serum seems to have made you fight more. I'm glad I banished that scientist," my Father says casually. Ah, Fire Nation royalty conversation starters.

"Where's the raid?" I ask, using a shadow to grab the salt. People stare.

"Ganshan."

My eyes widen. Out of all the places...

"What?! No! Y- you can't!" My protest echoes, making everyone fall silent. Ganshan is where I lived for half of my life before I was banished. A very hard slap is sent onto my cheek by my father. It leaves a deep red mark. He takes my spoon and scoops up more of the mashed potatoes. He stuffs it in my mouth, leaving a very angry Rose.