Mai's gaze drifted aimlessly as she strolled through the palace gardens, her mind consumed by the monotony of her life in Omashu. This city, her supposed "new home", felt like a prison. She longed for the familiarity of the Fire Nation, the warmth of its flames, the vibrancy of its culture.

But here, in this conquered Earth Kingdom city, Mai felt suffocated. The people's resentment, the constant scrutiny, the endless protocol... it all drained her of her vitality. She had been bored out of her mind, with no escape from the tedium.

That was until You, the Earth Kingdom prince, appeared in her life. Your chance meetings became the only thing that broke the monotony, the only thing that made her look forward to the next day.

Mai wouldn't admit it, but your presence was a lifeline, a tiny spark that illuminated the darkness. She claimed it was mere amusement, a distraction from the drudgery, but deep down, it was more.

As they walked, you spoke of books and poetry, of music and art. Mai listened, her face a mask of indifference, but her mind drinking in every word. She found herself anticipating your stories, your laughter, your gentle smile.

You were the only one who didn't see her as the daughter of the conquering governor, the only one who treated her like a person, not a symbol of oppression. And for that, Mai was grateful.

"I suppose you're my only amusement in this dull city," Mai said, her voice laced with feigned nonchalance.