ATLA: Azlua

Engagement

      In the expansive gardens of the Fire Nation palace, Azula, accompanied by Mai, Ty Lee, and a select few members of her trusted military faction, prepared for a non-formal meeting with Jai Yu and his grandson. The air was thick with tension, each participant aware that the delicate dance of politics and power was about to unfold.

Azula, regal in her presence, surveyed the gathering, her piercing gaze assessing each member of her entourage. Zaina, a competent general and Azula's former tutor, stood stoically by her side, ready to lend her strategic insights. The stage was set for a meeting that held the potential to shape the future of the Fire Nation.

Mai, however, found herself distracted, her thoughts wandering to what could have been—a life with Zuko. The idea of an alternate reality lingered in her mind, casting a subtle shadow over her usual composed demeanor. Azula, perceptive as always, noticed Mai's distraction but chose to let it slide for the moment.

Ty Lee, on the other hand, was a flurry of discreet activity. As the grandson of Jai Yu stepped forward, she observed him with a critical eye, searching for flaws or weaknesses that could be exploited. Her jealousy, though carefully concealed, manifested in subtle fidgeting that didn't go unnoticed by Azula.

Azula, slightly annoyed by Ty Lee's restlessness, shot her a glance that spoke volumes. The meeting required their utmost focus, and any distractions, no matter how subtle, were unwelcome. However, Ty Lee's concerns were rooted in genuine loyalty to Azula, her scrutiny of the grandson fueled by a desire to protect her friend from any potential threats.

The grandson, known as Hiroshi, emerged as a striking figure. With typical Fire Nation features—jet-black hair and penetrating grey eyes—he carried an air of regal charm. As he approached Azula, he bowed respectfully and introduced himself.

"I am Hiroshi, honored to stand before the esteemed Fire Lord Azula," he said with a confident yet kind tone, his words reflecting a certain naivety beneath his respectful demeanor.

In a gesture of formal courtesy, Hiroshi leaned down to kiss the back of Azula's hand. His actions, though genteel, carried a subtle confidence that hinted at his upbringing within the noble faction. Azula acknowledged the gesture with a nod, maintaining her composed facade.

Hiroshi then extended an invitation, "Might I have the pleasure of accompanying you on a walk through these magnificent gardens, Fire Lord Azula? I find the beauty of nature to be a calming influence in these tumultuous times."

Azula, with a calculated smile, agreed, "Of course, Hiroshi. A walk through the gardens would be a welcomed respite."

As they strolled through the meticulously manicured paths, Azula observed Hiroshi closely. His demeanor, though kind and respectful, revealed a certain naivety that she noted for future reference. 

          As Azula and Hiroshi strolled through the garden, the atmosphere among the group waiting back at the gathering became charged with whispered conversations. Mai and Ty Lee found themselves secluded in a corner, exchanging opinions on the charismatic grandson of Jai Yu.

"He's way too handsome for his own good," Ty Lee fretted, her usual cheerfulness replaced by genuine concern. "And did you see the way he kissed Azula's hand? It was so... respectful. I don't like it, Mai."

Mai, known for her deadpan expressions, raised an eyebrow in amusement. "Ty Lee, you're overreacting. He's just being polite."

"No, no, Mai, you don't understand," Ty Lee continued, her hands gesticulating wildly. "He's a threat, a big one. I can feel it. He's not like the others we've dealt with. What if he tries to win Azula's heart and turns her against us?"