[ Kija ... doesn't catch on to how unnerving that gesture appears to be. He's too busy feeling relieved that he's out of the hot water (see what i did there). She doesn't appear bothered at all! As the old woman inspects Bolin, Kija ... doesn't think to help him, opting to explain the situation to her instead. ]

We were looking for a way back to town, and we were wondering if you could help us! [ The old lady shoots Kija a glance. He was a polite boy, but way too skinny. She had no use for boys with this little flesh.

But maybe he could make a good servant ...

Finally, she lets Bolin go and offers them both an amiable smile, trying her best to sound grandmotherly despite the hoarseness in his voice. Just excuse it, it's a throat condition.

"I can show you boys the way back to town, but you look famished! Why don't you come in for tea and biscuits first?"

It was a sweet offer, but Kija felt obliged to refuse. He didn't want to impose. ] Thank you, but I am quite fine, you do not have to --

[ And then his stomach growls AGAIn. ] ...