Avatar: Macai's Journey

Chapter 38: Dynamic Emotions

During a sunny Sunday evening, Azula meets with Macai in the medium-sized Fire Nation city Pershuton. This city once belonged to the Earth Kingdom before Eyre's forces annexed it a few years ago. Now Macai's team happens to be there for recuperation and recreation. Dozens of people walk through the city streets, while Fire Nation troopers direct the traffic.

But this is no ordinary visit, something big has recently happened. After several failed attempts to capture the Avatar, Azula's success has skyrocketed. Azula took down the Earth Kingdom, Ba Sing Se with a brilliant coup. The elite Earth Kingdom police unit, the Dai Li, have pledged their loyalty to Azula. The Earth Kingdom royal family has been detained and news has spread that the Avatar was killed by Prince Zuko in battle.

Though Zuko was previously an outcast, Azula convinced him to reunite with the Fire Nation to ensure their success. In doing so, Zuko also betrayed his uncle Iroh, leading to the ex-General's capture. The spotlight from the 31st regiment has faded as Azula is hailed by many as one of the greatest strategists in the nation's history.

Macai waits for Azula to arrive in an office room, located on the second floor of a luxurious military hotel. The walls are maroon, the floor made of light brown wood, there is a window at the back of the room that emits sunlight from its location. Macai sits behind a light brown desk, where he can work on strategic papers while he waits for Azula.

Macai writes with a feather pen when he suddenly hears a knock. The Commander rises from his seat and opens the door. Macai notices Aiya and his eyes widen. Macai: "Aiya, is there an emergency?!"

Aiya smiles, "No Macai, I just wanted to stop by and say hello." Macai notices that Aiya is holding a concealed basket.

Macai asks, "What is in the basket?"

Aiya: "Guess."

Macai: "Snacks..."

Aiya: "Yes, cookies!!"

Macai nods, "I could smell them. Five-spice cookies?"

Aiya nods, "Yep."

Macai smiles, "My favorite."

Aiya: "It wasn't just my idea. Several 31st members played a part in getting you these cookies."

Macai asks, "Why couldn't they come here too and say that?"

Aiya responds, "Well, Kanna had something planned. I'm not quite sure what."

Macai shakes his head, "She hasn't been herself since Kett disappeared."

Aiya nods, "Just give it time. She will move on, eventually..."

Macai: "Well, Kett is a childhood friend, it will take a lot of time. Rosh told me he had to visit some family. Dade also had to do something, he also has been hurting from Kett's disappearance but tries to hide it."

Aiya sighs, "I miss him. You all have become part of my extended family. I can't imagine any of you disappearing or dying. I still miss Rosier."

Macai sits down, "Yeah, I know I can't save everyone but it hurts when good men die."

Aiya: "It only makes us stronger Macai. I wish I could help more, but I'm just an administrator."

Macai: "You are an EXCELLENT administrator. Without you, I wouldn't be able to handle the logistical affairs of the Prompt Adjudicator. It also isn't Hazo's specialty."

Aiya comments, "But what would we do without Hazo? He is a father figure for all of us."

Macai smiles, "That he is. Good old Hazo. Having him around makes me feel, so much more secure."