ATLA: Azlua

Rebellion part Eleven

Hong Li and Mai returning to the rebel HQ after their week-long journey to the villages. The familiar sight of the base—fortified, busy with rebels coming and going—comes into view. The two of them dismount from their ostrich horses, and as Mai stretches her sore limbs, she notices Rangi striding toward her with a determined look.

Before Rangi can say a word, Mai steps forward and speaks first.

"Rangi," Mai begins, her voice steady but a little softer than usual. "I want to apologize for what happened earlier. I may have been overzealous in my argument about the supplies. I'm not saying I was entirely wrong, but... maybe I pushed too hard."

Rangi's brows lift slightly in surprise before he nods, his expression softening. "I appreciate that, Mai. And I owe you an apology too. I know I get emotional, and I let that get in the way. The truth is, both of us are fighting for what we think is best for these people."

Mai shifts her weight uncomfortably but appreciates the sentiment. "I just didn't see the point in helping places that didn't seem strategically important."

Rangi grins slightly. "I know. But sometimes it's not just about strategy. Sometimes, it's about showing people that we care."

Mai frowns but doesn't argue. She knows he's right. Her time with Hong Li has shown her that much.

"But I didn't come over just to talk about that," Rangi continues, his tone becoming more serious. He glances over his shoulder to make sure they're alone before lowering his voice. "I need your help with Asha."

Mai tilts her head. "What about her?"

Rangi sighs, running a hand through his hair. "She's been reckless lately. Ever since the battle, she's been throwing herself into mission after mission without taking a break. She's not giving herself time to rest, and it's starting to show."

Mai crosses her arms, her eyes narrowing slightly. "What kind of missions?"

"Everything," Rangi replies. "Patrols, supply runs, even scouting. She's taken on more than any of us can handle, and it's like she doesn't care,  but I can see it's wearing her down."

 "Alright," Mai says, her voice firm. "I'll talk to her."Rangi lets out a breath, relief washing over his face. 

"Thanks, Mai. I just don't want to see her destroy herself over this."Mai watches as Rangi walks away, leaving her alone with her thoughts.

Mai scanned the camp, her sharp eyes darting between the flurry of activity. Rebels were moving supplies, tending to wounds, and organizing for the next mission. The air was tense, yet brimming with purpose. But Mai wasn't focused on the rebels' next move. She was looking for Asha.

She found her near the far edge of the camp, hauling crates of supplies onto a cart with a speed that was more frantic than efficient. Asha's face was flushed, her hair matted with sweat, and her movements lacked the usual spring in her step. It was obvious—she was pushing herself too hard.

Mai stood back for a moment, observing. She knew Asha had been like this for days, throwing herself into mission after mission, never taking a moment to rest or breathe. Rangi was right to be concerned, but Mai hadn't realized just how far Asha was pushing herself. Her mind raced, thinking of how to approach this. Empathy wasn't exactly her strength.

Finally, she stepped forward, her usual coldness masking any uncertainty she felt.

"Asha," she called out, her voice cutting through the noise.

Asha didn't hear her. The girl was too focused on the task at hand, her hands trembling slightly as she lifted another heavy crate onto the cart. Mai narrowed her eyes and stepped closer, this time standing directly in front of her.