Days And Nights (Book of Life and Maya and the Three One Shots)

Returning The Favor

As Zatz leaves the Underworld, he stumbles onto a stressed Micte.

Zatz had returned from the mortal realm. He didn't plan on staying in the Underworld for long since he had to keep an eye on Maya. But he needed to clear his mind after setting up Acat’s shrine. 

He talked with his father for a little while before deciding to leave. As he flew through the halls of Mictlan's temple, trying not to be seen, he heard crying. It sounded like… Lady Micte?

A part of him wanted to leave as soon as possible, but he couldn't just leave her like this. It wouldn't be honorable. 

Zatz followed the sound to a room on the far side of the temple. Lady Micte was on her knees, silently sobbing. He's almost never seen her cry. Zatz transformed into himself and tentatively walked into the room. 

"My lady?" He asked softly.

Micte jumped in surprise, turning around to see Zatz by the door, "Zatz." She stood up and quickly wiped away her tears, "What are you doing here?"

"I was just leaving." Zatz said, "Is everything alright, my lady?"

"Yes, everything is fine."

He wasn't convinced, "Are you sure? I don't mean to pry, but I heard you crying."

Micte sighed, "I'm just worried about Maya." She admitted, "If Mictlan gets her, all hell will break loose. And to make it worse, it's all my fault. Maya never asked to be born into this, let alone to be my daughter. She must think I'm a monster. And maybe I am a monster." Her tone became exasperated, "But we all know who the true monster is. I'm just so tired of having to fawn over that merciless, bloodthirsty, power hungry, son of a-"

She stopped herself before she went too far. She took a deep breath, "I'm sorry."

Zatz listened in silence. He always knew Micte's feelings for her husband were complicated at best, but it was rare for her to express them.

He took a careful step toward her, "I promise you, my Lady Micte, no harm will come to Maya." He said, "I'll make sure of it."

Micte stared at him. She almost didn't know what to say.

"I've been keeping an eye on her. She's already found two from the prophecy."

"Are you sure that's why you've been watching her?" Micte smirked, "I saw you with your father the other day. You should've see your face when you talked about her."

Zatz tensed up and he blushed, "I-It's not like that, I promise-"

Micte chuckled, "Ay, Zatz." She pulled him into a hug, catching him off guard. After a moment, she whispered, "Thank you. And I'm sorry about Acat."

Zatz relaxed and hugged her back. There were countless times when Micte helped him. He figured it was about time he returned the favor.