Rah Town was still the same peaceful, tranquil little town, but neither Azula nor Zuko had the leisure to savor its easygoing atmosphere. The moment they entered town, they followed Kahn straight to Aiken and Ershu's home without stopping.
Kahn had already detected their presence with Mind's Eye and breathed a sigh of relief inwardly. Fortunately, Aiken had not chosen to flee again with Ershu and Little Ji Yin, or Kahn would have had a dreadful headache on his hands.
With that thought, Kahn glanced at the two behind him.
But now I won't be the one with the headache.
"It's just ahead."
When they finally reached Ershu's doorstep, Kahn pointed out the house to them. Hearing this, Zuko immediately went on full alert and swallowed nervously.
"Does Mother live here?"
"Stop wasting words. Hurry up!"
Azula urged him impatiently, yet quietly slowed her own steps, falling to the back without drawing attention.
Knock, knock, knock!
Kahn stepped forward and knocked. Before long, the door opened, and Aiken greeted them.
At the sight of Kahn, Aiken froze. His expression grew complicated, and his voice carried a touch of emotion and helplessness as he said:
"You're here."
Then he looked at Zuko and Azula behind Kahn. Though he had never met them, he could faintly see a resemblance to Ershu's former appearance in their faces, and so reached his own conclusion.
"You must be Ershu's children, Prince Zuko and Princess Azula."
"Yes. You must be Uncle Aiken? Thank you for looking after Mother all these years."
Zuko answered politely.
He had already learned the details of Ershu's situation, so he also understood the complicated relationship between himself and the man before him.
He actually had no grievances with Aiken himself. From what he had learned, Mother and Aiken truly loved each