"I'm sorry things had to be like this.
Zuko"
Those were the last words in Zuko's short letter. Mai clutched the message in her hands, reading it and rereading it but not understanding a single word.
Why did he have to leave? Hadn't he been happy living in the palace and spending time with her? And more importantly, why hadn't he ever talked about his decision with her? Why hadn't he asked her to come?
She wouldn't have judged him. She never did. She had always understood and supported and supported him in everything he did. She knew he wanted his father's attention, to be accepted by his nation, and to have things back to the way they were before.
Apparently, Zuko didn't know this.
Mai read through the letter again, trying to find some explanation, an answer to her questions. Hot tears trickled down her cheek, and she cursed herself for being unable to control her emotions.
"I'm guessing you heard the news," a familiar voice said from the doorway.
Azula sauntered over and took a seat beside her on the bed. Without asking permission, she snatched the paper from Mai's hands, skimmed through its contents, then tore it in half.
"What are you doing?" Mai cried, tears falling faster. It was pathetic, being so powerless over her emotions.
Sighing, the princess placed a hand on her friend's shoulder in what was supposed to be a comforting gesture, but was really just a death-grip.
"I know this must be hard on you, Mai," Azula said, "but you should really just forget about him.
Mai glared, tempted to speak, but afraid her reckless emotions might take control.
"He spoke to father and directly threatened him. If he can betray his own family so easily, what made you think he'd be loyal to you?"
"Your father hasn't exactly treated him very well."
"But he's family, and blood is thicker than water."
"Whatever," Mai said, standing to walk away.
"I've been asked to track him," Azula said. "Why don't you come with me? It will give you a chance to see if he really cares."
Pausing, Mai turned and asked, "How?"
The firebender stood, taking a few easy steps toward her friend. She continued passed, saying over her shoulder, "If he's willing to fight you, chances are he's not interested in a relationship anymore."
Mai took the bait.
XxXxXxXx
Within a week of traveling with Azula, the two teens found Zuko.
And the rest of the Avatar's team.
The battle had been ongoing for several minutes when Zuko and Mai were finally forced to confront each other. They stood facing one another, eyes locked as they each waited for the other to move.
Zuko was the first to break eye contact, glancing over to where the bald monk was fighting. He looked back at Mai, hesitating.
Then he struck, crushing Mai's hope in the process.
Author's Notes: Before you say anything, this is not Maiko. At least, not pro-Maiko. Yes, it focuses on their relationship, but it focuses on the ending of their relationship, which really isn't very supportive. xD
Errr... Anyway,tell me what you think!
Disclaimer: I do not own 'Avatar' or any of its characters.
