AUTHOR POINT OF VIEW

The corridors emptied fast.

Servants vanished into side halls. Guards moved with quietly, sealing doors, clearing paths. No one spoke. The air itself felt tight, like the pack house was holding its breath.

Kayla walked at the center of it all.

Her steps were steady, unhurried. No sign she had almost died minutes ago. Zuko stayed at her side, his presence a shield, his jaw tight with barely controlled rage. Every guard that passed lowered their head. Some looked confused. ...