Avatar: Macai's Journey

Chapter 70: What's Next?

Macai and the 31st return to the Fire Nation for a brief R&R (relaxation and recreation) session as they attempt to predict Zerrel's next move. The DOJ's influence has been undermined now more than ever with their crushing defeat at Ba Sing Se. Macai, Kett, Kanna, Rosh, Irina, Dengo, Arret, Dade, Sonna, and Aiya meet in the Prompt Adjudicator's conference room as they discuss the current state of affairs.

Aiya observes, "Now Solven, Karanga, and Haresh are all dead."

Rosh taps his fingers against the table, "So that just leaves Beruto, Voren, and Zerrel. We're halfway there."

Macai asks, "Do we know anything about what Zerrel might do next?"

Aiya shakes her head, "Nope, Intel hasn't sent out any updates."

Kett: "I'm glad you all gave me a chance to visit. Some of the United Way forces have noticed some mysterious activity with the Disciples of Justice, but right now most of our allies have their hands full. We believe there might be a ring of corruption where Earth Kingdom and Water Tribe forces are working alongside the DOJ and using a key United Way base to do so. I need someone to help me, but I need an experienced and skilled scout to accompany me; someone swift and agile."

Macai answers, "I think Kanna will be great for that mission."

Kanna gasps, "Wait what? Kett couldn't find anyone else for the mission?"

Kett: "Everyone else's hands are tied up at the moment. The Disciples of Justice have still been very busy in the Earth Kingdom and Water Tribes even though they pulled back in the Fire Nation recently. But I honestly think it's all a distraction. They're planning something bigger; I can feel it in my bones."

Kanna points at Macai, "Or maybe Macai should do it. He's the most powerful person in the 31st. If not him then Rosh maybe."

Macai shakes his head, "You're the best scout in this unit. You know how to notice key details and clues while on the move better than any of us. Additionally, you are the fastest, most agile, have the best set of ears, and have the best long-range vision other than Sonna of course. And let's be honest Kanna, I can't leave here right now. I need to do more logistics and strategic planning."

Kanna replies, "Aiya does most of the logistics anyway."

Macai responds, "You're going with Kett and that's final. What's the big deal? You both were best friends once."

Kanna looks at Kett then back at Macai, "We still are, but I want to make sure the best person is selected for this mission. Why just two people?"

Kett: "We need to move swiftly and be able to catch these traitors. If we bring too many people, they'll be suspicious and evacuate their leaders. If there are two of us, they may be confident and try to take us out."

Kanna nods, "Ok, I'll go."

Macai: "Wonderful, I will see you both after the mission."

Kett salutes Macai, "Of course." Kett and Kanna exit the conference room and walk into the animal bay. There they both take eel hounds as the main hatch opens up. The duo rides their creatures out of the ship and through the beachhead.

Macai looks at his crew members, "Meeting adjourned." Everyone heads out except Macai and Aiya. Aiya still keeps a hold of her notepad as she looks at Macai.

Macai: "Aiya, I have to thank you again. You're the hero behind the scenes. Making sure everyone gets fed, the supplies we need to feel nourished and comfortable, and you make sure our ship stays in good condition after each battle. Without you, none of this would be possible and you did it all by yourself after Hazo left."