06. The swift messenger.
She sees the royal dragon-hawk before he does; holds her breath as the graceful creature glides low through the marketplace, golden wings catching the sun's dying rays before finally coming to rest effortlessly on its master's shoulder.
It nips at the firebender's ear in affection, and a small smile graces the Fire Lord's lips. "Fujin!"
The swift messenger is quickly rewarded with a generous piece of bread from his master, while the waterbender girl gently ruffles his beautiful feathers. The dragon-hawk coos in gratitude, giving each bender a quick nip on the hand before extending its right leg, delivering the tiny scroll entrusted to him at last. Zuko rapidly unties the scroll, taking notice of the white lotus seal before quickly hiding it inside his traveling cloak.
He turns to look at her, golden eyes dancing with excitement.
"Let's hurry back to camp. It's from uncle."