During the initial chaos in the city and the earthquake, Lord Zuko had been confined in City Hall. With the attacks being a political act targeted at the refugees, there was the risk that he, too, would be targeted, for implementing policies to help and protect them. Leaving the security of the building was far too risky.

However, most of the suspected troublecausers were apprehended within a few hours. It's then Zuko travels across the city to Air Temple Island -- albeit more slowly than he otherwise would have, since Druk is missing. Unusual behaviour for the dragon, given he'd always be at Zuko's side in a crisis, but he doesn't have time to dwell on that now. He's sure his companion has a good reason for being absent.

Zuko arrives at Air Temple Island by airship with a deployment of metalbenders, others arriving by boat, both to protect the President and investigate the portal. Once in the temple grounds, Lord Zuko takes a brief look at the portal but doesn't get too close. His priority is to find anyone on the island who can tell him what's going on, and before long, he comes across a familiar face.

"Bumi! What is the situation here?"