Chapter 181. The Approach
171 years after the Air Nomad Genocide. Ba Sing Se. Roku.
*Leaves of the vine swirling in the wind,*
*Autumn has come to our quiet garden.*
*A young soldier returns home,*
*A brave soldier returns home.*
These lyrics echoed in my mind as I climbed a small hill crowned by a solitary tree. At its base, near the mighty roots, stood two portraits. One belonged to the long-departed Lu Ten, son of the Dragon of the West, and the other, fresher, depicted General Iroh himself.
Soon, small offerings—apples, rice wine, and a pair of lit funerary candles—were placed beside their images. A year ago, Uncle Azula passed away. According to Zuko, he had longed to join his son but refused to miss his beloved nephew's firstborn grow up. Zuko named his first child Lu Ten in honor of his cousin, and Iroh adored the boy. Perhaps, without him, Iroh would have departed this world much sooner. It's worth noting that Iroh never severed ties with Azula or Ursa and often played with little Tomoko.
Few from the "old guard" remain today. Bumi, who ascended to the level of the ancient spirits twenty years ago, embarked on a new journey. Five years ago, Master Waterbender Pakku and his wife Kanna—Sokka and Katara's grandmother—left this world together, a small but strong family. Perhaps belatedly, Pakku finally made Kanna his wife. The Fire Nation's famed swordsman, Piandao, died with a smile, having met a hardworking young man to whom he passed on his mastery.
Only Jeong Jeong survives, though his former subordinates refuse to let him rest. He could be called a grandfather countless times over, as his comrades became his children and brothers. Their doors are always open to him, and not a day passes when he isn't busy, surrounded by children of all ages.