It was the last class of the day, but Kahn was unusually focused—because it was music class.
To him, this was fascinating.
In his past life, he'd imagined that a nation at war would live in constant tension, with everyone working for the war effort.
Yet, the Fire Nation—despite waging a world-spanning war for nearly a century—defied that image entirely.
The streets outside were alive with energy and prosperity.
People bustled about, shops were open, laughter filled the air.
It was hard to believe this same nation had been battling the entire world on its own for generations.
And then there was the school.
A six-year compulsory education system? In a place that otherwise resembled the ancient eras of his old world—complete with traditional clothing, strict hierarchy, and fire-lit streets—that was impressive.
It was, Kahn thought, one of the Fire Nation's biggest secrets to strength: smart kids make a powerful empire.
Right now, though, Kahn was focused on learning the flute.
It was elegant, light, and easy to carry. Plus, he couldn't deny how cool it would look to play a haunting melody before a battle—then charge in, cutting down enemies in rhythm with the music.
Dong~ Dong~ Dong~~~
The bell rang, signaling the end of class.
Students began packing their things, chattering about heading home or meeting up to play.
Nobody had invited Kahn to hang out lately—not because he was unpopular, but because everyone had figured out he did whatever he wanted.
If he felt like joining, he'd show up. If not, no amount of coaxing would change his mind.
Ironically, that made him even more respected.
Teachers saw his behavior as the image of discipline and restraint.
His classmates thought it was just plain cool—especially since they themselves could never resist messing around after class.
Kahn didn't blame them. Being playful was part of being a kid.
Even he sometimes wanted to play hide-and-seek... though he'd never admit that out loud.
But today, he had plans. The library was calling.
Zuko and Azula couldn't visit every day anyway.
Zuko was bound by royal rules, and even Azula couldn't sneak out of the palace daily.
As for Iroh, training sessions had slowed down.
The old man had told him that Firebending wasn't about rushing—it was about refining.
"If you learned as fast as you started," Iroh had chuckled, "you'd be a monster, not a genius."
So, with plenty of free time, Kahn headed toward the library.
"Hi, Kahn!"
A cheerful voice called from behind.
He turned and saw Ty Lee bouncing toward him, her usual bright smile lighting up her face.
Mai trailed beside her, calm and quiet as ever, giving him a polite nod.
It turned out they went to the same school, which made sense—it was the best academy in the Fire Nation capital.
While it accepted some talented commoners, most of the students were children of nobles, wealthy merchants, or military officials.
Before his parents passed, Kahn's family had also been among that circle.
Even now, though an orphan, his connection to Iroh—and through him, the royal family—kept his social standing more than secure.
Every time he met Ty Lee and Mai, they'd greet him warmly.
Over time, the three had become good friends—especially Ty Lee, whose enthusiasm was boundless when Azula wasn't around.
Mai, meanwhile, was... different. Her gaze often lingered on him, sharp yet uneasy, like she was trying to figure him out—or avoid him.
Kahn pretended not to notice.
"So, you two heading somewhere after school?" he asked casually.
Ty Lee grinned. "Nope! Mai and I are just walking home together. We live really close, right, Mai?"
Mai nodded slightly.
"Are you going to the library again today?" Ty Lee asked, curious.
"Yeah," Kahn said simply.
Ty Lee's eyes sparkled. "That's so cool!"
They chatted casually as they walked, but as they reached the school gates, something caught Kahn's eye.
In a shaded corner by the wall, three boys were cornering two girls.
One girl stood protectively in front of the other, glaring at the boys. Her friend looked terrified, scanning the area for help.
Kahn frowned.
No matter how "refined" a school claimed to be, ugliness could always find its way in.
This was clearly school bullying.
"Kahn... what's happening over there?" Ty Lee asked softly, her cheerful tone replaced by concern.
It was probably the first time she'd seen something like this.
Mai narrowed her eyes. "That girl looks unfamiliar. She's not one of ours—must be a transfer student."
Kahn sighed. "So, city kids bullying the newcomer? Classic."
He'd seen this before—back in his previous life.
Junior high had its fair share of wannabe tough guys. Bullies never changed, no matter the world.
He wasn't a saint, but these girls were his classmates. Pretending not to see wasn't his style.
So, he stepped forward.
"Excuse me," Kahn said, his tone calm but firm. "Do you guys need something from my classmates?"
"Huh?"
The girl who'd been standing her ground—Kou Li—turned to look at him, surprised.
He looked familiar, but I couldn't recall his name.
Then the other girl beside her gasped with relief.
"Kahn!" she cried, recognizing him immediately.