Chapter 11: CUTTING TIES
A/N: Notice- * =inner thoughts
Italic = flashbacks
"Opal I'm home!" called out Bolin.
I saw her walk out of the kitchen, "hey you came back early Bo- oh my god, Asami!" she yelled out running up to give me a hug.
I hugged her back with as much force. "It's good to see you again Opal, sorry we haven't been able to see each other for a while."
She smiled back "don't be so modest. I know things have been complicated, I'm just glad you're okay." She motioned for us to take a seat. "I'm almost done making lunch, so just relax."
I shook my head "Opal, you don't have to feed me-"
"Asami Sato do you really think I'd let you come into my home after months of not seeing you, and not let you eat my delicious food?"
As I was about to respond, Opal raised her hand.
"Don't answer that it's rhetorical. You're going to eat because I know you haven't eaten anything since this morning." With that she walked off to the kitchen.
As I sat down on the couch I looked at Bolin. "So you really do tell her everything huh?"
Bolin started laughing nervously "W-What are you talking about. Psh sure I tell her some things, but it's not like I text her every time there's an issue…"
We both looked at each other and then we bust out in laughter.
"Ha, Ha, Ha, seems like I still can't lie to you huh?"
"Ha, Ha yea well I did teach you most of the tricks that you know. Besides it's kind of the same thing with me. You can tell when I'm lying sometimes."
"You mean like today?"
I nodded my head. "Well yeah. Of course you did a little digging, but you caught me."
He scratched his head, "yup, but something is bothering me."
I looked at him "oh, well then ask away."
He took a deep breath "w-why on earth did you let her in. I mean I know how you feel about her, but didn't something in your mind remind you of what she is? What she's done?
His question was valid. Something in my mind should have clicked, but honestly it didn't. I was so focused on her being mad at me, so when she kissed me everything just shut down. Maybe Lin was right, I have gotten too close to this case and I'm losing myself. I look back at Bolin.
"Honestly Bolin nothing in my mind even reminded me that she was an assassin. I have feelings for her, so when she kissed me I was overjoyed. I thought thank god that she's not mad at me. So my mind went blank and my body took over."
Bolin came over and sat next to me. "listen Asami, I know things are tough for you right now, but just know that whatever you plan on doing, I'm in."
I nodded my head at him. "Do you think I can redeem myself Bo?"
An arm came over my shoulders, "Ha! As if you need me to tell you. You Asami Sato can do anything. I know that you're gonna bring down this assassin organization and I know that you'll make things better between you and the chief."
I smiled at him "thanks Bolin."
As we both smiled at each other Opal came into the living room and told us that lunch was ready. We all sat at the kitchen table eating and laughing.
"And so then I said 'see I put a sock in it literally.'"
Opal shook her head "Classic Bolin."
It felt nice to be in an environment like this. I haven't had a family dinner in quite a while. I forgot that it could feel this warm. Family. That's what I've been neglecting in my life. That's what I want to protect. All of those families out there who are suffering because of those assassins, not just my own. I've been so closed minded and only looked at the little picture instead of the whole thing. I looked at Opal and Bolin. They're young and most likely will start a family of their own. I don't want their child growing in darkness, fearing if their dad will come home one day or not…
"Asami are you ok?"
I blinked in shock a few times "Oh I'm fine. Lunch was delicious as I'd imagine."
Opal gave me a large smile "good then I'll pack some up so you can take it home." She got up and began to pick up the table.
"Opal you're not going to give her all the dumplings are you? Opal?"
"Love you dear." Opal responded from the kitchen.
I laughed as I saw how Bolin slammed his head on the table. "Wow guess now you'll have to think twice before inviting me over huh."
"Mmm" Bolin lifted his head and looked at me. "Yea guess you're right but then Opal would most likely get mad at me and right now I'm not in the mood for her rage. You know sometimes I think that if we put Opal on the field she would be able to scare away all of the assassins with her glare." He started laughing. I was about to join in, but I knew that it would not be wise considering the threat behind him.
"Ohh so you would put your own wife on the battle field, Bolin?"
"Heeeee!" Bolin screeched in fear. He immediately turned around "Opal, babe I was just joking around."
"Ohh well you seem to be doing a lot of those jokes lately, why don't I have some fun and play around with you. What do you say my little piglet."
With that she lifted a large kitchen knife that looked extremely sharp.
Bolin was completely afraid and couldn't respond to Opals threat, so he did the next best thing and fainted instead. Opal stopped her scary act and lifted her finger to her mouth. "Hmm maybe I went a bit far." She mumbled.
I shook my head "I think it's fine, guess that makes it easier for us to talk."
Opal looks at me "So you knew."
I just shrugged "I'm a pretty experienced agent. You know that."
As we moved Bolin to his bed, Opal and I sat in the living room sipping on some tea, although for me it was coffee.
"So what did you want to talk about?" I asked.
Opal placed her cup down and looked at me. "Well I've heard the way Bolin told the story, but I want to hear the way you describe it."
"But I'm pretty sure Bolin has it spot on-"
"Asami a story is better told by the one who actually experienced it. Besides your love story is bound to be one of the most interesting ones I've ever had the knowledge of knowing. A common tale of forbidden love, with an interesting twist on the si-"
"Ahem, maybe you want me to start with this story or should I just let you continue on fantasizing?" I said with an eyebrow raised.
Opal was a bit embarrassed, but she nodded her head to let me start.
I took a deep breath "well it all started when…"
I saw my home and thought that it wouldn't be a good idea to go in thorough the front door. They're all probably sleeping already. Jeez the amount of crap that I have to go through now is insane. I can only hope that the rest of the plan works out and there are no complications. I saw my window and climbed up to it. I always leave it unlocked for situations like these. I walked in and released a sigh of relief. "Well glad now I can take a rest."
"You thought it would be that easy. You're being naïve."
"Ahh! What the hell…Zaheer?" I questioned.
"Who else do you think could feel your presence in this house?"
I sighed again "guess that means I'm in deep shit huh?" I say to him as I take a seat on my bed. I look to where the figure is sitting on a chair in the shadows.
"Well not necessarily. Although you haven't been home in two days and your mom and I and everyone else were…worried."
I was a bit surprised by that. "B-But I'm a trained assassin. Sorry but why were you guy's worrying?"
His eyes showed no emotion, but after a while he let out a deep sigh. "we were worried because we were notified that there was more S.I.R.C. activity taking place. I know you can probably handle it, but I can't take a chance of you being captured."
"Oh well it wouldn't have been a problem for me. I would take down any S.I.R.C. agent." I said with pride.
"Would you?"
At that moment I stopped joking around. "w-what did you say?" I wasn't sure if I heard correctly what he said. Zaheer looks me dead in the eye.
"I said would you? Would you really take down any S.I.R.C. member?" he interlocked his fingers expecting an answer.
"You know I would. Why, are you doubting me?" Things were getting a bit suspicious. As the silence continued I just couldn't take it any longer. "Da- (Sigh) Zaheer can you just say what you're thinking. This silence is starting to get a bit tense."
He looks at me then stands up and walks out of the shadows into the rising sun light. "Korra somehow although it might be hard to believe, but I don't know if I can trust you."
My eyes widen in realization of what he just said to me. "Y-You can't trust me? Do you even hear what you're saying! I'm your daughter, your successor. I am the last person that would betray you!" I yell out in frustration. There's no possible way that he knows about me and -
"So then care to explain why these photos show you hanging around with S.I.R.C. lieutenant Asami Sato?" he threw down a whole bunch of pictures taken of Asami and I.
I stared at them, my face revealing not a shred of emotion. There were pictures of me and her in the car, of us smiling and holding hands while walking in the park and of that night. The night when we had sex. The photo was of me kissing her and pushing her up against her door. I kept looking at the photos when I spoke again.
"Where did you get these?"
"A certain informant brought it to my attention. I was about to kill him after he told me about the accusations against you. Although to my surprise when he showed me the photos it was very persuasive. I never would have thought that the child I saved many years ago would have betrayed me-"
"I didn't betray you!" I told him. I'm tired of him thinking that I'm a traitor.
"oh really, then explain what those photos mean." He had a slight glare in his eyes.
(Sigh) "When I first met her I didn't know she was an agent. I just thought that she was a regular person. I admit I was falling for her."
"She was the girl you were talking about."
I nodded my head "yup I only figured out that she was an agent because Mako told me. Those photos are of times when I was blind, the photo that shows us kissing I was using her to gather information." I looked at him "the moment you saved me that day was the moment I pledged my loyalty to you." I hope he can see my sincerity. We stared at each other until he closed his eyes and nodded his head.
"Then that's good to know. I haven't told P'li and the others, but I want you to tell me all the information you gathered."
I'm relieved that he trusts me. "Sure no problem, but I had an idea of taking down the entire S.I.R.C. organization.
He nodded back at me again "Alright then you'll tell me about that plan too." He said to me and was heading toward my door to leave. "I'll be waiting in my office, but first you need some rest."
I stood up as fast as I could "No I'm ready to share the plan and information." Zaheer stopped me and then gave me orders to rest. I had no choice but to obey him. Once he left I slammed down against my bed. How did he find out? I was asking myself, but no that's not the right question. The right one is who was the secret informant that revealed the photos? I remember Zaheer did mention the person was a "he". But who could it be…who could it be…who could it be…
"…"
"Ahhhhh! I can't fucking think under this stress." I rolled around on my bed trying to release the stress. Well he knows about Asami now, so what do you do Korra?
[Common Sense Korra]
"I think you should let go of this childish vendetta, and just admit that you really love her."
[Reckless Korra]
"Psh, 'love' please all that girl cared about was getting information from you. She never loved you and you know that. In your heart all you wanted was a good fuck. I say it's time to end her bullshit for good."
[Common Sense Korra]
"And what good will that do? All she'll feel afterwards is regret. You'll fall into depression. Korra listen to me all this anger is because you feel conflicted of which side to choose."
[Reckless Korra]
"Hell yea she's conflicted, her father just found out that she was hooking up with a S.I.R.C. agent. But you can stop all this guilt by going with your original plan and attacking S.I.R.C. headquarters! Get it over with forget the broad and focus on becoming a strong leader. Leaders don't fornicate with the freaking enemy!"
[Common Sense Korra]
"She can't just forget about everything that happened. Asami was probably the only person that she truly connected with. That technically makes you soul mates. Sure at first she played you, but you should know that afterwards she could have arrested you ever since day one, but she hasn't-"
[Reckless Korra]
"Yet"
[Common Sense Korra]
"Ouiet! Korra, neither of us can force you to do something since we're figments of your imagination. But I think you know what the right thing to do is…think before you act."
[Regular Korra]
"Ugh major headache" I clasped my hands over my head. "(Sigh) I don't know what to do." I mumbled. I was deeply conflicted, why can't I just sink into the shadows?
As I left her room I walked into mine. P'li was already in bed but she wasn't asleep, she was waiting for me.
"What are you doing still awake? I told you not to wait up for me." I walk up to the bed and began to take off my clothes and put my pajamas on.
P'li was finishing up on sharpening her knives. "I stayed up because I want to know what you said to Korra."
I took a deep breath. "Are you sure you want to know? I can assure you that when you do know it will change everything." I turn to the side to look at her.
"Zaheer we've known each other for a very long time, and Korra is our daughter. So that means you need to tell me what happened. Whatever it was we can fix it, we always do." She looks at me straight in the eye.
I sigh, "fine. You know we always tried to instill in her that S.I.R.C. was always against us. Ever since day one, but it turns out we didn't teach her hard enough."
Her eyes began to narrow, "What did she do?"
"P'li, she was seeing one of them."
That caught P'li's attention. "What the hell does that mean?"
"It means she's been screwing around with a S.I.R.C. agent. Who knows what she could have revealed to her. And that's not even the best part, the agent is Asami Sato, the CEO of Future Industries and the lieutenant of S.I.R.C."
"Are you serious? Also do you really think that Korra would betray us like that? We've been training that girl since she was little, her loyalty lies with us."
"Trust me P'li, while we trained her since she was little she could always change in a blink of an eye. Besides if she was completely loyal to us then she would have come to us and confessed immediately after she found out that Sato was S.I.R.C. agent. Also don't forget where she came from P'li, She's also one of them."
P'li shook her head. "Zaheer do you even hear yourself. She's our daughter, she's one of us 100%. Don't just doubt her like tha-"
"Don't get attached." I told her as I walked up to the window to look out at the city lights. "That's the first rule of being assassins, not to get attached to others. Do you remember that rule?"
Her eyes looked down at her hands. "Yea, I remember."
"Then you should know that if there is even a single possibility that she could betray us then we must take action. All this time we've been playing family, but that's all it was…playing. We're assassins first and we have an objective to reach. Don't forget that P'li."
"But even so, you'll just abandon her without even giving her a bit of faith? What would she think of us?"
"It doesn't matter what she thinks of us. Originally we were never even supposed to bring her with us, but I accepted her because you insisted on it. Her entire clan was supposed to be annihilated that night, that included her as well." I turn back to face P'li.
"(Sigh) I can't change your mind on this can't I?"
I shook my head. "No. You know that once I make a decision on something I can't go back on my word."
"What are you going to do to her?"
"Don't worry I'm just going to frame her so that the S.I.R.C. agents pick her up. They'll take care of her."
"Ha then you might as well shoot her while you're at it. S.I.R.C. will most likely kill her before she can even say a word. Honestly sometimes I worry what goes through your head sometimes." She says as she lays down in the bed turning off the lamp light and pulling up the covers.
"You don't have to worry, what I do is for the good of the clan and for returning the world to its natural form." I get into bed and close my eyes. Tomorrow it's time to start ending things.
I wake up after resting for a few hours. Although I got to be honest it wasn't that easy considering my chat with Zaheer. I walk out of my room to the kitchen, expecting to see my breakfast on the table. To my surprise instead of seeing my food I see all of my family sitting at the table staring at me. Great.
"Sooo, what's with all the eyes looking at me? Don't tell me I have spit on my face?" I tried to lighten the mood, but no one seemed to be laughing. This atmosphere is seriously damaging my mood.
"Korra, come take a seat. We need to talk." Said P'li.
I nodded and sat down. "Alright the atmosphere is as tense as it's gonna get so spill, what's up?"
Zaheer stands up and starts to address the group. "Last night I had a vision. A vision where we the red lotus were finally able to conquer the injustice set in this despicable city. We became the leaders of the revolution, we opened up a new era where people don't have to abide by rules. Where people didn't elect leaders because they lead themselves. I saw a great plan that brought this vision to life. He turned to look straight at me. "And the one who I saw that came up with the plan was none other than you…Korra…my successor."
My eyes went wide "w-what, me? But I thought-"
"No don't doubt yourself, this plan of yours is what we will use to destroy everyone who opposes us." His voice took a dark tone. "Starting with S.I.R.C."
I looked around as everyone's eyes were on me. That's when I knew no longer do we have to wait, were ending this long war. "Alright, this is what I had in mind. I would contact an agent of S.I.R.C. I'll tell her that I'm switching sides and that I need her to bring as many S.I.R.C. agents as possible. That way when she does bring them we can strike them down. If she brings all of S.I.R.C. top agents to the meeting point then they'll be left defenseless. We would come out on top." I looked at them all. "So any questions?"
Zaheer came up to me and placed his hand on my shoulder. "No, but I am very proud. You really think she'll go along with your plan?"
No. honestly I'm not sure, but for the sake of my family and what we've been fighting for, I have to believe that she will. For the sake of gaining back Zaheer's trust. "Yes. She will listen to me, she has no choice since she can't get over me. I have her wrapped around my finger."
Zaheer and the others gave me a smile, "good then let's get to it. We execute this plan tonight."
As the others were beginning to leave I grabbed Zaheer's arm. "Wait."
"What is it? Not having doubts are we?"
I shook my head. "No, it's not that but I wanted my friends involved in this plan, they helped me come up with the idea." It's true, they deserve as much recognition in executing this operation as I do.
"Sorry Korra, but I don't want to involve those who might end up as a casualty during this mission. I know you want to include them, but let this just involve us the Red Lotus. They were the ones who started this war, now we're going to finish it, in the names of those that have lost their lives for our cause. Your friends can spread the message of our victory. Understand?"
I wanted to argue against his reasoning but I knew that in some way he was right, and I don't want to anger him any further. "I understand sir. I'll start getting ready."
"Good, then start by calling that girl, and make it sound believable." With that he left.
As I stood there I couldn't help but feel like my stomach was turning in a bad way. Maybe that's just because you haven't eaten yet Korra. My conscience told me.
After having lunch with Bolin and Opal, and telling Opal about the story of how Ravaa and I met I left their apartment to go back to my own house. Even though Bolin wanted me to stay over just in case any assassins thought to ambush me at my own home. But I assured him that it wouldn't happen and even if it did I could take them on.
I got back home and all I wanted to do was go to sleep, but as I walked by my study I couldn't help but go in. I picked up a box with all the memories that were stored in it. Photographs of when my family was once happy. Of times when my mother would read me bedtime stories of the hero who would save everyone, of the hero who would be fearless…the hero I could never be for her and my father. As I looked at those pictures I felt all kinds emotions hit me all at once.
"M-mom...d-dad…." I dropped the case where all of the little 8 year old girl's happy memories were stored. I cried as hard as the day when I lost my mom. "I-I-I'm so sorry…" I curled up my knees as I sat in the chair where my father sat. He used to pick me up and show me all of the new designs he was working on. He said to me…
-flashback-
"Asami do you know why you are so loved?"
I looked up at him, "is it because I have you and mama, daddy?"
"Ha,ha,ha!" he used to let out that boisterous laugh. "Yes my dear, but there is also another reason."
"Hmmm, I don't know daddy tell me."
He placed his hand on my head and whispered "It is because your mother and I love you with all our hearts."
I looked at him, "really?"
He smiled back at me with his kind smile. "Yes."
A voice at the door made us both turn our heads, "but don't forget that I love you more."
"Mama!" I leaped out of my father's lap and ran to give my mother a hug. My father following close behind.
"I missed you mama" I spoke to her. As my mother and father closed in I told them, "I love you mama and papa, with all my heart." My arms spread wide to show them the amount of love I had for them.
They both knelt down and faced me, and together they said. "And we love you with all of ours…Asami."
-flashback end-
It was one of those moments that we had as a family that I would never forget. I realized that I should probably get up and take a shower to wash away all the heaviness I was feeling. Once done with the shower I went back to my room and laid in bed. I tried to fall asleep, but all I could do was look at the ceiling. Soon my thoughts drifted to Ravaa. I wonder what she's doing right now. Maybe she's with her family having a blast at how she was able to deceive a S.I.R.C. agent. She must have made them proud. I had to accept that the next time me and her would meet would be when we would be fighting against each other. To settle the war that was taking place between our two worlds. Mine where justice reigns above all and hers where chaos is order.
Soon after thinking I slowly closed my eyes and drifted into a deep slumber.
-Next Morning-
When I wake up I feel refreshed. I stretch out in my bed to loosen up my muscles. "Mmm, ahhh, today seems like a good day to jog." I dress up in a black yoga pants and a red tank top. I have my earphones plugged in and my running shoes on. Taking a deep breath I speak to myself, time to start a new day.
As I'm jogging around the streets I notice that I see things that haven't crossed my mind before. I see more smiles on people's faces and hear more laughter. It's a new feeling that I feel and I don't find myself wanting to hide it. Instead I want to explore it, or rather embrace it. I take a rest at a park and buy a bottle of water. As I'm taking a break I feel the wind blow and hear the children laughing, while the dogs are barking.
"Ahh this is nice isn't Asami. Just a day to relax and no stress." That is what I thought until I heard a phone ringing. And guess whose phone it was, oh right mine. It's not any phone, but my S.I.R.C. phone. Uhh thought I left it behind, guess it's just second nature to take it. I pick it up and answer with a hello. The voice that I hear is the last voice that I expected to answer back.
"Hi. Asami."
It's her. Ravaa.
Immediately my calm nature turns into one of a person being hostile. "You have a lot of nerve calling me. Ravaa."
"I know, but I couldn't stop thinking of you. I wanted to apologize for leaving you alone the other night."
"…"
"A-Asami are you still there? Man don't tell me she hung up?"
"No, I'm just waiting for my apology." I want to hear what excuse she comes up with.
"Oh well uh, ahem. Asami Sato I Ravaa want to deeply apologize for leaving you alone the night we had sex. I know that your bed was cold and I'm damn sure it was even colder when I left, so if you promise not to kick my ass when we meet again, then I promise not to leave your bed again."
Confident huh. "Ohh and what makes you think I'll allow you to enter my bed again?"
"Uhh I don't know, but I was just thinking that you know since you're into me and I'm into you that you would you know-"
"Alright enough Ravaa I forgive you. Geez you really don't know how to respond under pressure huh?" I faked a laugh. I thought the conversation was going to continue as if we were teens in love, but the next line she said really brought me into my serious mode.
"Alright Asami, let's cut the act." She said in an intimidating voice.
What? Is she trying to say what I think she's trying to say? "I don't know what you're talking about. You need to be more specific." I really don't want to have this conversation at the park. It's too open, right now I'm a sitting duck here.
"Fine you want specifics here it is. I know that you're a S.I.R.C. agent. I also know that you know that I'm an assassin. That specific enough for you?" She sounded sassy.
So she does know. "It is. So then if we're doing this right now then tell me, how did you find out? How do you know that I'm an agent?"
"Honestly I don't think I would have noticed, but lucky for me I'm surrounded by people who care. One of my "co-workers" caught that you were playing me so he warned me."
So I was already being suspected. "So now what, you plan on killing me so that I don't reveal you to my agency? Cause if that's the case then you're too late. I've already informed them of you-"
"That's not it Asami. Stop jumping to conclusions." She spoke to me in a harsh voice.
So she doesn't want me jumping to conclusions then what the hell does she want? Money? No, not necessary. Silence from me? But I already told her I ratted her out. Then the only thing left is Leverage. Most likely.
"Listen Asami I don't want to damage our relationship. So I'm calling to offer myself to your agency."
Tell me there isn't something suspicious about this. Seriously?! "Why on Earth would I believe you? You would rather betray your entire family and for what?! What's driving you huh?" I wanted to know what it was and I know I was losing my cool. People were starting to look over at me and I'm pretty sure it's not because I'm Asami Sato CEO.
"(Sigh) the truth. It's because of you. I've never met anyone like you. You're amazing and special and I don't want to risk losing you. So if I have to give up my life of crime then I will…for you. I'll even take any punishment that S.I.R.C. is going to give me."
Ugh she sounds so sincere. "I still don't believe you Ravaa. I've read your case files, you've killed about every single mob and cartel boss in the city. I'm sure that those orders came from your so called family…the red lotus."
"So you want me to prove to you that I'm honest?"
"Yes." I answer back to her.
"Fine, tonight at midnight an assassin showdown is gonna happen. The Red Lotus is gonna be there and that will be your chance to take them down. But you're gonna need some serious firepower so you need to bring your best agents. I was just told the mission and I know that they won't be expecting you guys, but just to be safe where a ton of armor. Will that do for forgiving me?" she pleaded.
That was interesting information, but what still gets me is whether I should trust her or not. "I'll let you know what I've decided."
"W-wow wait, what does that mean?" she questioned.
"It means that when I decide if it's worth it to go through with the operation, I'll call you and let you know. So be patient, you do have experience in that don't you?" I teased her. But it wasn't like a flirty tease alright. "Have fun waiting." I closed my phone while hearing her stutter. I got to get this info to chief pronto. I get up from the bench and head back home to clean up and head over to S.I.R.C.
As I enter headquarters I was stopped by two junior agents. I looked them over "Um excuse me but I need to speak to the chief." I said and as I tried to take a step forward they stopped me again.
"Sorry lieutenant, but we've been given orders not to let you in without authorization from the chief herself." Guard number one responded.
My eyebrow arched in a questioning motion. "What do you mean you can't let me in. I wasn't banned from the building I was just taken off the case." Did Lin really go that far as to ban me from headquarters?
Guard two shook his head. "Sorry ma'am, but orders are orders, we can't allow you to enter. Maybe if you make an appointment-"
"An appointment?" Guess it's time to play the higher up card. "You do know who I am don't you?" They both nodded their heads.
"Ye-"
"Don't speak when I'm talking. I may be "banned" from headquarters, but at some point I'll come back as lieutenant and I'll remember your faces and names. Which reminds me, do you agents want to give me your names so I can keep them for future references? Hmmm." I stared them down and waited for them to act.
"Uhhh" both of the guards looked at one another and made the right decision to let me pass without any questions. "Have a good day at work lieutenant." They saluted me.
I smirked as I walked passed them. So easy.
As I reached chiefs door I stood there and took a deep breath. The last time we met we left things on a bad term. I just hope she'll listen to me this time. I whisper to myself "alright Asmai it's let's do." I open up her door without knocking.
"Yes Mr. President…no we have not pin pointed their next move, but…yes…yes, I understand. (Sigh)." She placed her head in the palm of her hands. I could tell she was tense.
"Ahem"
She looked up with wide eyes. "A-Asami?! What are you doing here? I told those guards-"
"I know what you told the guards Lin. I just used my methods as an agent to get passed them." I walked over and took a seat in front of her desk.
She shook her head. "I'm not dealing with this." She reached over ready to call security. But I placed my hand over hers.
"Lin wait, please just give me five minutes. What I have to say is very important. Please." I look at her eyes hoping that she saw I was being honest. Turns out she did notice because she sighed and took her hand away from the alarm. She took a seat and looked at me with tired eyes.
"Alright Sato you have five minutes, spill."
I nodded my head. "Lin first I just want to say I'm sorry about how we left things. You've done so much for me and the way I repaid you was with betrayal. But I'm here to make it up to you." I looked at her with determination.
That got her attention. "How?"
"Ravaa called me this morning. She knew that I was a S.I.R.C. agent and confessed to me that she is an assassin."
"Why would she do that?" Lin's eyebrows scrunched up.
"She said that she didn't want to lose me. She told me that the Red Lotus was planning on meeting up tonight, as if there was going to be some sort of turf war. She told me that it would be the perfect time for us to go over there and capture the Red Lotus."
"Sounds like a trap."
"Yea that's what I thought, but I don't know she sounded truthful." I took out my phone and replayed the conversation starting from when Ravaa was telling me about her change of heart. "So what do you think? Think we should take this chance."
Lin huffed. "And risk losing more of our agents. I don't think so Sato."
I rolled my eyes. "Lin stop with the "Sato" bullshit and listen. This is our chance to get rid of them for good. We can end this stupid war that has lasted for years, and many have suffered enough of their tyranny…including you and I. Besides we're S.I.R.C. we live to take down assassins, it's our job, we took an oath. Now stop being such a pussy about this and let's get this job done."
Lin's eyes showed that she was shocked by my outburst. "Wow Sa- I mean Asami. I didn't know you had it in you. Gotta say, I'm impressed." I nodded my head in appreciation. "Alright Asami, I'll take your word. I'll order all top S.I.R.C. agents to gear up. Where is this thing going down kid?"
I smiled at her since she's trusting me. "I'll let you know right now." I picked up my cell and called the most recent number. It rung a couple times until someone picked it up.
"Hello"
"Just the voice I wanted to hear. Still want to make it up to me?" I asked Ravaa.
"Psh of course I do. I-I miss you 'Sami."
'Sami. That's the nickname she gave me. I have to admit it still hurt my heart to hear her say that nickname. "Yea, so we're in. We'll meet with you tonight, but where exactly is the location?"
"Oh. Um the location is a shipping station. It goes by the name Unagi. Can't wait to see you there." The line cut off.
I looked back at Lin. "Alright the location is a shipping station that's called Unagi. I suggest we search it up and scan the area."
She nodded her head. "Ok lieutenant this is your mission."
"What, but I thought I was taken off the mission."
"Yea, you were taken off the mission regarding the assassin Ravaa, and I still don't like that she can just contact your phone like that, but at least we got a lead. This mission is about getting our guys back to us safely. For now you're earning my trust…slowly." She stood up and offered me her hand. "Alright then let's get to planning this takedown."
I smiled at her glad that we can trust each other in our common goal to protect others. "Yea let's do it."
"oh Asami one more thing."
"yea?"
"What do you want to do about her when you get there?"
Good question. Luckily I have the right answer for it. "Same thing we do with all the assassins Lin. We'll capture her and treat her no different. No assassins get a free pass, she'll be charged just like the rest of them."
Lin smiled at me "Great answer kid. Now get out I need a break."
I saluted her "Yes Chief."
Once I finished my phone call with Asami I knew that there was another phone call that I had to make.
"Hey"
"Hey Mako."
"What's up did you get enough sleep last night?"
Huh always one to worry about me. "Yea I did, but I got something important to tell you."
"…Alright I'm listening."
"(Sigh) Zaheer found out that I slept with Asami."
"What?! How?"
"Some so called informant sent him pictures of Asami and me when we were on our dates and when I was at her house. He confronted me but I told him that I was on his side. He forgave me, but I feel like I still gotta earn back his trust."
"Then that's great isn't it. Just work hard to stay on his good side and things will go back to normal. So about the plan, are you ready to let us in on it?" he sounded excited.
"About that, this is what this phone call is about. Today Zaheer announced that we'll be executing the plan to destroy S.I.R.C. and the one who is going to lead that mission is me." I hoped he could tell where exactly I was going with this.
I heard a deep sigh from the other line. "So then what you mean to say is that you and the Red Lotus will be leading the greatest mission of the century, and your mission doesn't include us. Your team." He finished in a disappointed voice.
"Yea that's basically it-"
"But why Korra. You said we would do this together. How are I gonna tell the team that you decided not to fill us in on the plan?"
"It's not my call Mako. Zaheer told me not to let you guys know because a lot of experienced S.I.R.C. agents are gonna be there and you guys might get injured. I care a lot about you guys and I don't want to lose any of you. This is for the best Mako, please understand that."
"(Sigh) As much as I want to be angry at you, I know that as my leader and friend, I should have faith in you. But what are the rest of us supposed to do?"
"Well after we win you guys can be the first to spread the new. Sorry it's not much."
"Nah, I'm just glad you're confident enough to win. Well then guess I'll just be waiting here, call me when the fights over."
"Yea you bet Mr. Hattrick. Stay safe."
"Yea you too, Avatar."
"Man glad that's out the way." Well time to suit up.
Night time ended up coming quicker than expected. The squad and I were on our way to Unagi. It was 11:30 at night and we wanted to scope out the area where we knew the S.I.R.C. agents would use as cover.
"Korra come here." Ordered Zaheer.
I crouched next to him. "Yea, what's the issue?"
He looked at me. "Did I say there was an issue? I just wanted to have a quick chat before the show starts."
"Oh ok, so what's up?" I was a bit nervous to have a conversation with him, but I know that I need to gain back his trust.
"So are you ready for this? I want to know if you can do the impossible."
Impossible? "Yea you know I can. Just give me the order and I'll get it done."
A smirk graced his face. "Good then I do have an order to give you. When the S.I.R.C agents come I want you to take care of the lieutenant."
"So you mean to ruff her up."
"No. I mean take her down, use every skill I've taught you to destroy your enemy. That means I want to see blood. Can you do that?" he looked at me expectantly.
Guess I have no choice huh. Fine for the sake of our cause. "Alright, I can do it." I gave him my signature thumbs up.
His lips formed a slight smile, but it didn't reach his eyes like it usually wood. "Very well then. I'll see you on the battlefield then. Be prepared." Then he just left.
Great so not only did I have to call and beg for her to come, now I have to be the one to kill her. Perfect. This better increase my rank.
It was a couple minutes until it was midnight. I gathered up the best agents I thought would be able to handle this mission. I also included my right hand.
"Hey Asami I know I said I'll follow any plan that you come up with, but don't you think that Oh I don't know maybe I need more practice? I mean come on I'm not that great on the field."
"Bolin I chose you because we've been partners ever since I found you on the streets. You know me just like I know you." I turned around to face him. The rest of the agents were scattering around the area. "Plus there isn't anyone else that I would trust my back to."
He was still nervous as bullets of sweat began to form on his head. "Well wouldn't you prefer for the Chief to have your back. Not that I don't like your back! I mean it's not like I look at your back, but you've known the Chief for way longer than any of us-"
I shook my head. "Bo if I brought the Chief here then she would be the target for the entire battle. Just relax ok, I'm going to make sure that you get back home safe. I promise." I looked in his eyes waiting for him to respond.
"(Sigh) you're right. Ok I'm relaxed. It's gonna be Bolin time when this fight starts."
I nodded at him "Yea definitely."
BANG, BANG, BANG,
I turned around as fast as I could. "Did you hear that Bolin, three gunshots. Let's hurry up!"
"Right"
We ran and ran until we reached the shipping Station. That's when we saw our agents fighting against the Red Lotus. Bolin and I took cover as I peeked my head above the crate and counted how many assassins we're dealing with. "One…two…three?"
Only three assassins? Are they seriously that confident? They're being too cocky.
"Asami where are the other assassins they're supposed to be fighting each other right? Why are they only fighting our guys?" Whispered Bolin.
"I don't know, but I'm going to talk in our comms. to let our guys know what they have to do." I pressed the button that connected me to my team. "All agents retreat back immediately. I want everyone to gather up whoever is injured and take cover behind the crates." I looked up to see my men doing just that. Good.
"Ptzz, Lieutenant these guys mean business. They may only be three assassins but they're hardcore." One of my guys spoke to me. I recognized his voice to be one of my squad leaders.
"I know but right now we need to come up with a plan."
"Lieutenant! We're getting mowed down here. We need back up – ahhhrughghh!"
"Agent! Agent respond!" I slammed up against the crate as bullets flew by my head. "Shit!" I yelled. I looked at Bolin and told him "you need to head over there and take out one of these bastards! Use the shadows to your advantage and take one of the guys to cover your back, I'm getting us out of here!" He nodded his head his eyes serious.
"You got it boss!" He pointed at one of the agents. "You come with me." He radioed the squad that was being attacked. "Suppressing fire inbound, 5 min."
As I saw him go to help out the other agents I tried to get out the radio and contact headquarters. "Dammit why the fuck do you decide to stop working now?!"
"Maybe it's because it's tired of taking your orders." A voice spoke out.
I knew who it was. I could never forget that voice.
I slowly turned around and saw her. "You, you lied to me!"
Ravaa came out of the shadows a smirk on her face. "Believe me it wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. You Asami Sato are so easily gullible. You honestly thought I would lead you to hurt my family? Ha, it's the other way around, I'll lead you to your death!" With that she hurled towards me a knife in her hand.
I flipped over the crate and was now in the center where the battle was. I saw my agents fighting hard to take down these assassins.
"Don't get distracted Sato!" Ravaa yelled.
She tried to throw a punch at me, but I dodged it and grabbed her arm swinging her over my back. I dropped her body to the floor and brought my foot out to stomp her face. She grabbed my leg and punch my knee.
"Ahh!" I felt the bone crack. And broke free of her hold. Sweat was dripping down my forehead.
She got up and was laughing. "Are you so sure you're the lieutenant of S.I.R.C.? Your fighting style is disappointing. I expected better."
I wiped the sweat from my chin. "You want to see how I fight? Fine I'll stop holding back, I'll make sure that you feel every blow, and know that each blow is my hatred for you!" I yelled at her.
She smiled. "Good, then let's fight."
I took up a boxing stance with my arms raised and my fists protecting my face. She took up a martial arts stance with her legs bent and her arms at her side. We both stared at each other, thoughts about one another raging through our minds. This is it, the fight we both knew was coming since day one. As agents were fighting hard to stop the Red Lotus I was here facing my enemy.
BANG, BANG
"Ahh!"
"Haa!"
Our forearms collide and we struggle to overthrow the other. We break off and I flip over. We both run at each other and I lift my right leg and knee her in the stomach, as I come in for a punch she blocks it with her arm and punches me in the face.
As I punch her in the face she grabs my arm and punches right at my elbow, slightly dislocating my arm. *Fuck is she trying to break it or something?!* She's still holding my arm so I take that to my advantage and punch her three times in the stomach, then her face again and finish my combo with a left leg right in the gut.
*Shit that fucking hurt!* She tries to get another kick in but fuck that, I take a hold of her right leg and slam down as hard as I can at her knee. I know she felt that. Then I elbow her in the face.
*Aurgh! Dammit I fucking felt that!* I kick her three times, she blocks my first blow, but the second one lands right on her face and as she's stun I land my third kick at the center of her chest knocking her to the floor.
*Uh* My back lands on the rough concrete floors. I recover quickly by flipping up and running at her and throwing a punch at her cheek. Of course though she punches me again in the stomach. *God at some point I might just end this fight by throwing up at her* She grabs the back of my neck and I know something horrible is going to follow.
I grab the back of her neck and punch her once in the stomach and again, although this punch had a lot more force, so much that I lifted Sato a few inches off the ground. I could hear her gag as she choked from my fist deep within her stomach. *Paybacks a bitch Sato, but this doesn't make us even for almost breaking two bones in my body.* I grab her by her hair and by the front of her suit and throw her into the crates.
*(Cough) Shit that punch was definitely a hundred percent.* I feel my body being lifted off the ground and then thrown into the crates. All I felt were pieces of wood being broken and my face getting scratched up. *I can't lose this fight!* I can already hear my body begging for me to stop and take a rest. *Sorry, but I can't.* I lift myself up and as I see Ravaa running up to deliver a blow, I hold steady and wait for her to come closer so that she can feel as I upper cut her, feeling her lower jaw collide with her upper and hear as teeth clatter against each other. Then deliver a series of punches to her face and chest! I can feel my body starting to shut down. *At least that should knock her out.* So I thought it would, but she just keeps standing up. How on Earth is she getting this energy? Is it just to beat me? As she raises her head I see her eyes burning with hatred, and I know what's coming for me.
*That Bitch! She uppercutted me! Now I'm feaking pissed off.* My mind was only thinking about beating her to the ground. To the point where she can't move a single bone in her body. I see that she looks weak and it's like a lion hunting for a gazelle. She's helpless. I rush up to her at an amazing speed and turn to the side bringing up my leg to ram it into her side feeling satisfied as I hear ribs breaking. Then I take my leg and kick at the side of her knee feeling bones pop out and break. A piercing scream reaches my ears and that's when my berserker mode stops.
"AHHHHH!" I fall to the ground. I can hear bells ringing in my ears as both my mind and body shout in pain. My entire right side of my body feels like it's engulfed in flames. I can feel that my ribs and knees are broken. At this point my body could just pass out and I'll be helpless on the floor, waiting for a bullet or a knife to end my life. I felt my body being rolled onto its back. "Ah s-stop" I manage to mutter out.
CLINK
That sounds like a gun. My eyes open up slightly and I see a silver barrel pointing right at my face. My eyes trace up the gun barrel, up the tan arm littered with bruises and right at the face of a girl who I thought I loved, but was always my enemy. Her face was covered in cuts and bruises, one of her eyes was swollen and blood was leaking out from the side of her mouth and above her eyebrow. Her nose also looked like it took a huge beating. But my eyes went back to those cerulean eyes. Those eyes are what attracted me to her in the first place, other than the fact that she was an assassin, but her eyes used to be kind. These eyes, they were filled with raw emotion…emotions like anger, confusion and…sadness. I stared at those eyes waiting for what was coming. I saw how she took a deep breath and her arm tensed. I knew what was coming, so I closed my eyes and for a moment I thought *At least it's her.*
BANG, BANG, BANG,
"A-a-arugh"
"Asami!" I heard Bolin yell out.
I thought I was dead, but I didn't feel like I got penetrated by bullets. That's when my eyes open up again, wide, but with shock. There standing in front of me was Ravaa. Her eyes bulging out and below that blood seeping out of the bullet holes in her chest.
"R-Ravaa" I whispered. How? Who shot her?! Was it one of my men?! I didn't have time to find the answer to those questions as I saw how the gun fell from her hands, she fell to her knees more blood coming out from her mouth. I heard as she muttered out words.
"W-why?"
I realized as I saw her fall to the ground that the gun shots came from behind me. I turned my head as back as I could and saw that a man was holding a gun with smoke coming out of it. The man looked intimidating and powerful, I could only guess that he was the leader of the Red Lotus. He put down the gun and walked over to Ravaa's body.
"You know why Korra. I couldn't just let you walk away free when I discovered you were associating with a S.I.R.C. agent. For the sake of our family and secrets I had to dispose of you. I can't let S.I.R.C. take you alive for the information you would provide would be valuable. So my only option would be to kill you myself. This is all a part of what it means to be involved in this brotherhood."
I saw as he walked over in front of Ravaa and pointed the gun at her head the way she did with me.
"Korra for as many years as I've known you I just want to say, thank you. You helped me rediscover myself and my true objective. You will be remembered throughout assassin history as Korra the great Avatar!" He raised the gun and as he was about to pull the trigger, I heard a helicopter and more shots were fired.
"All Red Lotus members surrender now, we have you surrounded!" That voice, it sounded like Lin.
"Tsk, guess I won't have time to finish this. Oh well you'll die from blood loss anyways."
I didn't hear his voice after that. In fact I didn't hear anymore shouting or gunshots at all. Guess that means the Red Lotus got away, again. I felt my body being lifted up and placed on something. At this point my mind can't even register the pain. But I heard Bolin's voice next to me.
"Don't worry Asami, we're gonna take to a hospital ASAP. Lift her up gently!"
It didn't matter to me what he said because all I could focus on was the body of Ravaa and how lifeless her eyes looked.
We lost this one big time.
A/N: So chapter 11 finally out. This turned out to be almost 10,000 words. This is my longest chapter yet. I just wanted to post this up since it's been a couple of months. I'll go back and review any mistakes or misspellings that are in here. This is also my very first detailed fight scene and I got the inspiration from the mortal kombat X trailer. A lot of drama in this one too. Hopefully you guys were able to follow through and I hope you enjoyed it. It's summer and I'll possibly post up the next chapter maybe in August or September. Have a great summer to all of you!
