Training Day
Aang, Katara, Toph and Iroh had left the Fire Nation. Sokka and Suki had remained behind. There were still matters to clear up regarding Fire Lord Zuko's agreement with Kiyoshi Island. Perhaps it was just curiosity, or a desire to observe new techniques, but when the Kiyoshi leader and her Water Tribe boyfriend saw a poster advertising a combat demonstration, it appealed to their common interests. At dinner with Zuko and Mai, the subject came up.
"It happens every year now," Zuko said without enthusiasm or derision. "It's for anyone who wants to show their skills, benders and non-benders alike."
"What are the rules?" Suki asked.
"Anyone from any style can try out: firebenders, earthbenders and waterbenders. Sword-, spear- and pole-fighters. Anything goes."
"Any prizes?" Sokka asked.
"I can see why you and Toph are such good friends," Zuko said.
"Is that a joke?" Suki marvelled.
"No," the young Fire Lord replied earnestly.
"Too bad," Mai quipped.
Zuko was feeling outnumbered. He redirected the conversation. "There is a five-hundred gold coin prize for anyone who challenges for it and wins. But the challenge is voluntary like everything else."
"The poster says the event is on Ember Island," Sokka said. "Good place for it." His face clouded with hesitation. "Isn't that where your sister lives?"
"Yes, in my family's beach house. I'm sure you remember it."
"It had its charm for a place of refuge," Sokka quipped.
"I wouldn't worry about Azula," Zuko said. "She doesn't attend these things often."
Mai rolled her eyes. "She's so boring lately it's sickening."
"With her, boring is good," Suki said. "I'd like to go."
"Then we'll go," Sokka replied.
"I will too," Zuko said.
"Finally a change of pace," Mai said, almost relieved.