Azula and Kahn began the return journey with their troops. This time, it took especially long, as Lidun and the others had to follow on foot despite their injuries, severely slowing the march.
Azula carried out the plan to the letter. At every colony and city they passed through, she staged a performance of brutal torture, causing a great commotion wherever they went.
Some remained indifferent, some clapped and cheered, and others glared until their eyes nearly split. Whatever their reactions, news of them spread rapidly throughout the Fire Nation, in stark contrast to their slow progress. Even Ozai, far away in the Royal Palace, heard about it.
After each "performance," Azula gave them the best treatment and basic meals, ensuring they stayed alive.
No one considered this mercy, because everyone understood that it was preparation for the next round of torture.
At first, Lidun and the others still had the strength to curse loudly, constantly denouncing Kahn's betrayal. But as their bodies gradually weakened and their voices grew hoarse from prolonged screams of pain, they slowly fell silent.
They staggered slowly along the road, like walking corpses that had lost their souls. Even a glance at them left ordinary people's hearts pounding with fright.
During this time, even the Royal Guards grew cautious, afraid that they might accidentally offend Azula and suffer the same cruel torment.
When they learned that Kahn had also had a hand in these plans, they immediately began keeping a respectful distance from him, while also feeling that something had clicked into place.
They had been wondering why Azula and Kahn got along so well. Now they could see that the two shared the same foul tastes and ambitions!
Neither was someone to cross.
Yet whenever the Royal Guards were not watching, Lidun, who appeared