Chapter 2: Drinks with Losers
On Air Temple Island Ikki would have to wear the traditional red and orange robes but on Republic City she wanted to blend in. Her hair was always the same though, tied up in two low pigtails while her fringe similar to her Mother's fell into her eyes.
With the team showered, dried and dressed they headed to The Red Dragon, a usual place to cool off. Red Chinese lamps hung from the low ceiling and ornate fans decorated the walls. It wasn't that busy and there were plenty of free stools by the bar. They sat down ordering their drinks.
"Did you see the way Chaki moved? Completely different to a pro-fighter. He was more aggressive and-"
"Ikki, please. Can we not have one conversation that revolves around pro-bending?" Nato asked annoyed grabbing his drink. Ikki stared at him hurt and slightly offended.
"Ugh...yeah, sure." And they talked about life, relationships, news but not about pro-bending or what just happened. Ikki didn't add much to the conversation for her mind was still burning with Chaki, pro-bending and matches. The drinks didn't last long either after three they decided if it was best they go home.
Outside the weather and grown cold and bit their noses. Ikki dug her hands in her pockets blowing cold air out of her mouth.
"Bye, seeya tomorrow!" Shino and Sai headed right in the direction of their homes.
"Bye Nato." Ikki started walking away, her shoulders hunched with the cold.
"Hey Ikki, I'll come with you. I'm walking that way anyway. You're staying at Jinora's right?" Nato asked running to catch up to her. She nodded teeth chattering. The streets were quiet and the skies were even darker now.
"Hey listen...I'm sorry for snapping at you earlier." Nato apologised, his breath visible in the cold night. Ikki hunched her shoulders, not sure how to respond to his apology. Her teeth could not stop chattering, "You cold?" He put his hands together and blew upon them. The putting his arm around her and pulling her in close to him, he rubbed her arm sending warmth throughout her body.
"Thanks..." She said shyly blushing at the thought of his arm around her. They turned around a corner, a shortcut to Jinora's apartment. On the ground was a man dressed in ragged clothes. His dark hair was matted to his head and the smell of alcohol as they walked past made their noses curl. Usually Ikki could hold her own anywhere but walking past that dodgy character she found herself holding onto Nato's jacket tighter.
They reached Jinora's apartment block finally. Ikki stood at the door looking for her keys which had fallen deep in her large bag.
"Need a light?" A tiny flame flickered on Nato's finger which provided light for Ikki to find her keys.
"Thanks. So I'll see you tomorrow for training. Bright and early too as its for ten to ten!" Nato's smile faded as she unlocked the door. She looked back at him to say goodnight but he was gone. Shivering Ikki headed upstairs into bed.