While conversing, they suddenly heard sounds from behind the fire escape corridor's door.
Swiftly, Zuko opened the door, revealing a visibly embarrassed Renee, her head lowered.
Lina was surprised, then realized Renee must have overheard their conversation. She felt sad and embraced Renee gently, whispering, "It's okay."
Renee murmured, "I'm sorry..."
"No need to apologize. It's not your fault."
"That ring... It's an heirloom of the Hamertons, but my mom..."
"Thankfully, it's been found," Zuko said with a faint smile. "You shouldn't carry this guilt. We trust you with Toph. When he wakes and sees you, it'll help more than any medicine!"
Yet Renee couldn't shake off her guilt. "Lina, did they find my mom?"
After a pause, Lina nodded gently.
"Can I come with you to find her?"
"Renee, it might be better if you stay."
"But she might listen to me!" Renee insisted. "Let me try. She's not really like this!"
Zuko's expression grew serious. Lina was uncertain.
At this point, no one could persuade Renee otherwise.
-
The next day, Renee joined them in the MPV.
The vehicle had seven seats, and everyone was present except for Toph, who was still in the hospital. Two more cars followed, each filled with Thompson bodyguards.
Based on the information they got, Kaitlyn had left the old city area and was headed to the suburbs.
The suburbs were mostly mountains, with few people living in that direction. Continuing on that path would lead them out of Centrolis. Interestingly, that area also passed through the forest where Lena had been attacked.
No one spoke in the car. Renee seemed nervous, biting her lip, and her eyes looked like they were about to tear up.
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