Shortly after Ershu regained her memories, before Kahn left, Ershu and Azula huddled together, sharing the sort of whispered secrets that belonged to girls alone.
"Speaking of which, there's something else I'm very curious about."
Ershu's lips curved slightly as she whispered to Azula:
"Azula, my darling daughter, are you and Kahn dating?"
"Of course not!"
Azula jumped in fright. Her cool expression crumbled in an instant, as though someone had put a finger on her secret thoughts, and she finally showed the bashfulness and fluster of a girl her age.
At the sight, Ershu's smile deepened, and she said:
"I just think you two are a good match. What, don't you like him?"
"It's not that I don't like him. Uh, I mean, whether it's his strength or other things, um, well, he really is pretty good, so..."
"Hehe, I understand. I understand."
Seeing Azula like this, Ershu could not help recalling the simple, happy days she and Nolen had spent in that little town. Those were the most precious days of her youth.
"So, have you told him how you feel? Or are you waiting for him to speak first?"
This question seemed to touch a sore spot, and Azula immediately fell silent.
"Actually, I'm still not very sure what he thinks."
"You can have a little more confidence on that front, my daughter."
Ershu gently put an arm around Azula and looked at Kahn up ahead as she encouraged her:
"You two have supported each other through so many trials and dangers. Is there anyone in the world whose trust and feelings for one another could compare to yours?"
"I'm sure he likes you too, but perhaps he hasn't realized his own feelings yet. That means you'll need to take the first step."
"Besides, could pursuing him