exfirelordozai:

“I wish I had. Nothing is worth staying here for the rest of my life.” Except maybe Ursa’s next visit… if there is one. 

However, his new ‘friend’ might make it more comfortable for him. It was hard to decide if that was a good thing or a bad thing since it would help him live longer. Either way, he felt like he would still suffer under the weight of his crimes.

         ❝ That’s what I have to disagree with. Avatar Aang spared your life in hopes you could rise above the tyrant history has branded you as, in hopes that you could mend your relationship with your son. Staying here, despite the discomfort, is a way to potentially begin redeeming yourself. That’s worth something, isn’t it?“

Clearly, Mai’s time spent with Ursa and Iroh had
some form of influence on her. Not to mention
becoming the Fire Lady has forced her to shed
her gloomier attitude and learn the art of comforting
others properly. She still had much to learn, but she
liked to think she was getting the hang of it.