Lin has been having her own bad day

The city was in chaos.

That wasn't Lin's fault, because she was doing everything to maintain order, but like the Avatar, she was a convenient scapegoat. Ever since Kuvira's attack a few years prior, there had been a rise in prejudice against those descended from the Earth Kingdom, a sentiment which extended toward the metal benders of the city and made her job even more difficult than it already was.

Despite the city’s efforts over the years to build around the spirit vines that had taken over the center and downtown districts of the city, they were still **** large parts of the streets and destroying buildings, making the already long reconstruction efforts even more difficult, and the gang war between the Triads and their enemies had spread her men thin. It was a dangerous time to be in a political position in the world, and while the Avatar and her girlfriend went off on a honeymoon, Lin was left picking up the pieces.

Now, the president was calling for her to step down.

"You can't be serious." She said.

"I'm sorry, Lin, but the council all voted for your retirement." Zhu said, with the same stoicism as always.

"If it wasn't for me this city would be falling apart!" She snarled. "You get rid of me and the police **** will go on strike and then you'll have more crime and more chaos-"

Zhu stood up and gave a Lin a glare that reminded her of her mother. "It's not my decision Lin. During your tenure, this city has experienced revolutions, police brutality and mob **** the likes of which has not been seen since its founding. Frankly, I am saving you from investigation..."

Lin's eyes widened. "Investigation? Investigation from what?"

Zhu turned away. "Many people blame you for Kuvira's attack. They want to hold a trial, to accuse you of conspiring with the Earth Imperialists."

"That's ridiculous!" Lin stood up. "Look, Zhu, I know this city better than anyone...you can't let them get rid of me, it will only make things worse."

The president turned back to look at her. "If a trial is held you will be humiliated in public, Lin. You have many political enemies and they will put you through the ringer if they get the chance...I am not letting that happen. I am ordering you to step down...you can name your replacement."

She turned back toward the massive window behind her desk, which overlooked the United Republic of Nations. Lin sank back in her seat.

She had devoted her entire life to the police ****. She had neglected all romantic and familial parts of her life for this job. And now it was being taken away.

She didn't know what she was going to do with herself.

"Mako." She said, slowly. "He's my replacement."

Zhu glanced back and nodded curtly. "He is a little young, isn't he?"

"He's the best we have." Lin said.

(Two hours earlier)

Mako stood in Lin's office, his hand still in a salute, watching as she cleared her desk into a shitty little bin.

"I'm out, Mako. I need you to take over." Lin said, for the second time.

"But...Chief..." He was at a loss for words. He had never wanted this, not in a million years. He'd been happy to work as a beat cop, protecting his city from the threats which never left it.

"You're the Chief now." She said, putting a hand on his soldier. "Try not to burn the place down."

She gave him a smile, but it was a little one, weighed down by a lifetime of struggle, tossed down the drain. Tearing up a little, he straightened and saluted again.