When Piandao gave Sokka the sword, Sokka initially refused the blade and confessed the truth about actually being from the Southern Water Tribe. Piandao believed him to be worthy enough to choose a steel to make his sword. He was set about to do tasks such as landscape painting, rock gardening, and calligraphy, as well as practicing against one of the master's underlings. Having grown accustomed to potential students bragging about their own worth, Piandao found Sokka's humility not only refreshing but exactly what he was looking for. During the interview, Sokka humbly admitted his own unworthiness to the master, much to Piandao's surprise. Piandao instructed Sokka in the essence of swordsmanship.Īfter Sokka concluded that he did not openly contribute to the group, he sought out Piandao and traveled to the swordmaster's castle. However, at some point, he agreed to train the young Prince Zuko to wield dual broadswords. From far and wide people came seeking his tutelage in the art of sword fighting, though Piandao became known for turning potential students down as he had met several students claiming to be the best in their village and thus deserving of his instruction. In a legendary battle, Piandao defeated all one hundred soldiers. The Fire Army came to arrest him for deserting the military. Īfter some time, he returned to the Fire Nation and settled in the town of Shu Jing. He felt increasingly conflicted about the Fire Nation's role in the Hundred Year War, and so he deserted the army and traveled the world for many years, studying under a variety of benders, warriors, and artisans. However, after several years of fighting, Piandao lost his taste for war and sought to become a more enlightened person.

Piandao fought many battles for the Fire Nation and won them all. He furthered his studies in the army, where he developed a vicious and fearsome sword fighting style. Īt the age of ten, Piandao attended a Fire Nation boys' camp where his natural talent with the sword was recognized. Growing up, Piandao was a nervous and agitated child, but he showed interest in the arts and enjoyed painting and calligraphy, which helped him relax and focus his mind.

Ashamed that their only son was not a bender, his parents left him on the doorsteps of an orphanage. Piandao was born to two firebenders, both of whom were considered prodigies in their art.

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