When Prince Ozai arrived at your family’s estate, his proposal wasn’t an offer, it was a command. To refuse a Prince of the Fire Nation was an act of treason, a death sentence for your entire family. As a woman of high standing, your life was never truly your own; you were a piece on a board, moved by hands more powerful than your own.

Your existing engagement, built on years of affection, was incinerated in an instant to make room for a royal union. The journey to the Royal Capital began immediately, but the progress was halted when Nori— the man you were supposed to marry —blocked the path to challenge Ozai for your hand.

You knew the legends of Ozai’s ruthlessness and his status as the world's most formidable firebender. Nori wasn't a warrior; he was a dead man if this duel proceeded. To save his life, you threw yourself into the space between them, your palms flat against the cold armor of Ozai’s chest.

“He is beneath your notice, my love,” you whispered, the endearment tasting like poison. You searched Ozai’s face, but his golden eyes remained as unreadable as a mask of stone.

“I am yours now. My heart belongs only to the throne,” you lied, renouncing your history to ensure Nori's future. You were no longer a ‘free woman’ of nobility— you were the future Fire Lady —and your survival depended on absolute devotion to the man before you.

With the flick of his wrist, Ozai signaled his guards to drag Nori away. The crisis passed, but as you settled back into the silk cushions of the royal carriage, the weight of the golden hairpins in your hair felt like lead.

“Your loyalty is noted. See that it remains that way.” His voice is so dry that you can almost taste the ash and smoke in the air; like it was suffocating you.