The Mistress of the Fire Lord

Chapter 04 - Zatochi

The period of training went basically well. I might not be particularly smart, but at the high society world I felt in my element - even though I've spent most of my life as a tribeswoman. Maybe I am just a natural at it, everyone has their talents and I might have found mine.

What I was terrible at was playing wargames. I didn't have a good strategic mind, and it showed in my reckless play. I did learn the rules, but I couldn't beat Zatochi, my Master and future-ex-host of the Fire Lord, no matter how hard I tried. I really hoped that the Fire Lord enjoyed winning, because I certainly wouldn't be a challenging opponent.

Besides that inability, I could do the rest well, I was a good listener and had a good understanding of people's hearts, what led to good insights at conversations. 

Besides, I could sing lovely traditional songs from my homeland, and was slowly learning stories and songs from the Fire Nation and the other nations as well. My calligraphy was not bad as well, even though it wasn't my specialty, and I felt as if I could entertain the Fire Lord for hours non stop if I had the opportunity to.

I confess I felt bad for Zatochi, for having to teach me while preparing his wedding, so I did my best to at least be a good student.

When I was considered ready I felt overjoyed. I haven't seen him - or mostly anyone, actually - during my training. My first day would be right after Zatochi's wedding, when the Fire Lord arrived from there. I spent most of the morning moving to Zatochi's old quarters, at the Imperial Wing, and I wouldn't be able to do it so quickly if it weren't for Nerui's help.

-- Thank you -- I said after he helped me finish to get ready for receiving the Fire Lord. -- For everything.

-- I did what my heart told me to do. Please, remember, Karima, always keep a straight face and your feelings hidden. And never, ever forget your place.

His words were harsh, but real and filled with genuine concern. Holding back the tears, I threw protocol away and hugged him.

-- And that's exactly what you have to avoid doing -- answered him with a chuckle while putting his arms around me. I knew I would hardly see Nerui from now on. I'd miss him. 

***

When the Fire Lord arrived for the tea, I was already there, waiting on my knees, ready for start serving him.

-- It's a pleasure to see you, my Lord. -- I recited the greeting words while served the tea the way Zatochi instructed me -- I hope your day has gone well.

I wanted so badly to look into his eyes, but I kept them low and focused on my task.

-- The wedding has gone well. -- answered him with the cup in his hands -- Zatochi deserves happiness. He's a good man. 

I nodded agreeingly.

-- You are right. He was kind and patient to me. I'll never forget it.

-- You should never forget nor the good not the evil people do to you, even if you pay for the good and forgive the evil.

-- Your wise words will be guarded, my Lord.

And thus we spent hours talking about human nature and how to deal with that. He seemed to be a wise man, and he talked about his uncle, Iroh, and about how wise he was. I could swear I saw a glimpse of water within his eyes, but the Fire Lord kept his composure well. Then, the time arrived for the farewells. He left for dinner with his wife while I went back to my quarters, to have dinner there. I knew sometimes I'd be requested for keeping company at the table with them, but I hadn't yet gained the trust and esteem needed for that - and sincerely, I wasn't sure if I actually wanted that. It would be too much to handle.

So, I spent the rest of my night alone. After leaving my bath, I found my dinner served, and I ate a little, still slightly nauseous from the excitement. I had trouble sleeping, but slept happy, because I saw him, and I knew I would see him again soon. Boy, I was in trouble.