It was a dreary, rainy day, the worst kind of day to be traveling. The ship was docked, the soldiers and Firebenders were off doing spirits knew what (most likely finding an inn at which to get drunk), and Zuko, Mai and Iroh were in Iroh's room playing Pai Sho. Or rather, Iroh and Zuko were playing Pai Sho while Mai kept score.
"And another win for General Iroh," Mai said dryly. "Zuko, are you even trying anymore?"
"I'm just not good at this game," Zuko sighed. "And Uncle's a master, you know there's no way I could beat him even if I was trying!"
"Prince Zuko, I told you this is not a competition," Iroh said. "I am trying to help you learn."
"All I've learned is I stink at this game," Zuko said. "Just like I do at every-" He cut his sentence short when Mai glared at him. "Sorry, I forgot you don't like when I do that," he said sheepishly.
Iroh nodded.
"Perhaps this was not the best way to teach you, then. I've only made you feel intimidated."
"Yeah, you kinda did," Zuko said.
"I'll tell you what," Mai said. "Why don't I take your uncle's place for the next game? Then we can be bad together." She put a hand on his shoulder, and he smiled.
"Why not?"
Iroh stood up, letting Mai take his place at the board. This was what Zuko needed, to play against someone on the same wavelength as he was. He did not keep score, though he did deign it appropriate to offer advice here and there.
After all, one couldn't learn by mistakes alone.