The Saga of Avatar Korra

by Puffie

For the second time in two centuries, the Avatar is lost. Asami Sato realizes a girl she met years before in the far North might be the person the world needs, and a young woman named Korra begins to rebel against her guardians; the Red Lotus. Alternate Universe. Co-authored with Sanctum C. Genre: Drama, Friendship, Action, Family, Political. Completed.

25. The Heiress

Book 2: Metal

Chapter 4 - The Heiress

---

A whirlwind romance. Asami cocked an eyebrow as she stared at her reflection, her lips curling into a smile. So many kisses. So many snatched moments alone, so many moments to find some excuse to touch. And maybe nothing... much more than that, but even just those fleeting moments of physical contact had been wondrous. Kisses in the far South. Kisses as soon as they were away from parents and other prying eyes. More kisses when Korra arrived in Republic City again two days previous. Long kisses, brief kisses, fun kisses, sensual kisses. Accompanied by exploring hands and just once with less clothes than normal. Not that she gone all the way with Korra - not yet - but it had been so pleasing to see beneath her girlfriend's top again, to actually touch and caress. To lie skin against skin, wearing almost nothing. What would have Korra done if she had gone just that little further? No. Korra had never done anything like it before; Asami did not want to rush her. For a moment she almost regretted those previous passionate moments of ecstasy; the men and women she had shared a bed with so that she might experience it all for the first time with Korra. Although; no. She would not want to have given up the pleasure, and wishing away her experience might hamper them later if they both had no idea what they were doing.

Asami blinked. She was zoning out. And blushing. Time for that later. Later. She smiled. Tonight? On her birthday? Maybe. Asami glanced around wanting to cough to distract from the direction her thoughts had taken but there was no one to see her. Right. For now; she needed to get ready. Okay. Lipstick; deep red. Gown; violet. Perfume; floral scent just about detectable on the air. Hair; styled and set an hour before. She was missing... something. Ah; an accessory. She looked down to her dressing table, sifting through her jewelry box. This pearl? Asami frowned. Maybe not. Maybe something darker?

"Yuuko?" she asked.

Yuuko peered into the room, her arms full of towels and hair styling paraphenalia. "Yes, ma'am?"

Asami held up the pearl and an ebony choker. "Clear or black do you think?"

Yuuko squinted at Asami's hands for a long moment. "The pearl," she decided after a moment.

"Thanks," Asami replied and pinned it to her dress. This year would be perfect. This would be the best birthday ever. So far it looked to be more or less similar to every prior one; a lavish party; one where her father's associate's progeny usually held centre-stage. Dressing up for the occasion was at least was always fun. The party less so. Well; there always had been at least her few genuine friends, her pen pals, occasionally a lover, but by and large the party was nothing more than a massive networking situation for business leaders in Republic City. But this time; Korra would be there. And with her a small but meaningful group of others - people she was looking forward to seeing and spending time with. Not that the networking was not also quite interesting - there was just a sense that even now on apparently her special day, she was unable to put down that aspect of her life.

Asami studied her reflection once more, tilting her head this way and that to check her makeup, her hair, the line of her dress. A different look to earlier - her first photoshoot for a woman's magazine rather than the teen ones she was annually obliged to appear in. The adult experience was far removed from any she'd had before; that had all been fun and upbeat, and once a semi-disastrous fake flirting scene with some thin Fire Nation youth who rarely took his eyes from the camera - certainly never deigning to look at his companion. The woman's magazine shoot had all been about her, and almost entirely in a business setting. That ought to help get her name out; both here and in the Fire Nation.

Yuuko pushed Asami's bedroom door open. "Korra, Senna and Tonraq have arrived, ma'am."

"Thank you," Asami said, grinning. Early - just like she had asked. Would that it could have just been Korra, but that kind of division was going to raise more questions. See where the night took things. Okay. Last look in the mirror. Still perfect. Time to greet her very first guests. "Korra!" she exclaimed as she reached the bottom of the stairs. Senna and Tonraq still looked a little uneasy being in the mansion, but Korra only had eyes for her. It felt like she was towering over the trio in her heels; their clothes while formal were much more subdued than Asami's. Not that Korra did not look anything short of stunning in her watertribe dress; the very same one her mother got her for her birthday. "You look amazing," Asami said as she hugged Korra and kissed her cheek.

Korra flushed and smiled. "You too."

A knock at the door interrupted any further discussion; Mako, Bolin and... ah! Presumably Haruhi. Not a surprise at this trio either. The brothers looked good in the suits she sent specifically for the occasion. Haruhi was in a knee-length pink dress with a rose on her chest, her hair long, narrow, and black.

"I believe you know my brother," Bolin said, with a wave of his hand after a brief hug from Asami. "And myself. But I would like to introduce you and Korra. And Senna and Tonraq to... Haruhi!"

Asami smiled at the girl. "Nice to finally meet you, Haruhi. I've heard a lot about you."

Haruhi tilted her head slightly and shot her a dazzling smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you too. And a very happy birthday." Asami frowned. There was something oddly familiar about the girl. She had seen her... somewhere. Pro-bending? No. Work? No. Some shop in the city? Probably. Asami almost thought she had seen her at that host club, but those occasions were always to stare at the boys. Maybe she should have paid more attention to the female clientele as well... Though that had always felt as if it would be nothing more than a non-starter. "And it's amazing to meet you too, Korra," Haruhi was smiling at her now. "I'm always listening to your games."

"Oh, thanks. I mean, hi, nice to meet you." Korra frowned. "Bolin; don't you get some tickets to the games? She could come watch couldn't she?"

"Oh, no, no," Haruhi said quickly. "I'm always at work when your matches are."

"Where do you work?" Korra asked.

"Oh, I..." Haruhi's eyes went out of focus for a moment. "Bookshop," she blurted. "I work in a bookshop."

"Oh?" Korra asked. "I'll say hi if I see you. I think I still have some of Mako's gift token to use up."

At Korra's glance, all attention shifted to Mako. He fidgeted uncomfortably. "So... Happy birthday, Asami."

"Thank you," she said with a slight nod. "I love the hair."

"He spent hours copying General Iroh's haircut," Bolin added with a smirk. Mako coughed, his cheeks reddening and he looked away.

"Korra, Asami, you look... beautiful." Bolin glanced at Haruhi quickly. "So do you." His eyes flicked to Senna. "And you too."

"We have gifts!" Korra exclaimed, turning to grab something from the chair behind her. Mako leant forward and held out an oddly shaped soft parcel. He looked more nervous than normal as Asami tore at the paper. A bag. A... familiar looking bag. "Thank you, Mako."

"I... wanted to return a lost item. I hope it's enough like the... you know." His gaze darted to Haruhi for a moment.

Asami stared at the bag, unexpectedly touched. It was the same. If not her bag than a very close double. The bag they ripped from her hands that night on the docks. Lao Tzu if she remembered correctly. "Thank you. It's a very thoughtful gift."

"Ah, but you won't guess what we got you," Bolin said holding a thin, flat object.

"What you got her," Haruhi interjected. "I would have prepared something but-"

"Don't worry," Asami said, taking the present from Bolin. "I'm not about to start throwing people out if they didn't get me a present. Not yet anyway." She grinned and tore through the wrapping to reveal a disc record of The Philosophy Majors's album Laghima's Breakdown. She already owned the album naturally, but this one was slightly different. Scrawled across the cover was a message in black ink which read: 'Happy Birthday Asami!' It was signed by Yomi Takanashi. Asami's hands trembled. "Is this really...?"

Bolin noded. "Yep. And if you listen to Kashiwa Radio tomorrow at one o'clock, there's a greeting waiting for you my lady," he said with a flourish.

"Wow. You really go all out on birthdays don't you?" Haruhi observed.

"I do my best," Bolin said with another flourish. Haruhi giggled.

"I look forward to mine then," Haruhi said.

"Thank you, Bolin. This is... Thank you," Asami said as she hugged him and kissed his cheek.

"This is mine," Korra said and handed her a rectangular present. It looked to be painstakingly wrapped, and unlike the other two presents was not sealed with tape, but had instead been carefully folded into place. The paper was thick parchment, and Asami could not bring herself to tear it. Inside was a red, patterned box and inside that was a single, peach-coloured pearl. Asami stared at it.

Korra coughed. "I was thinking what I could get you and I was really stuck for ages. Then Dad took me diving a few weeks back and we found these oysters and inside one of them I found that and I thought you might like it-" She broke off as Asami hugged her tight and kissed her cheek. She fought the desire for something more personal.

"Thank you, Korra. I love it." Asami sighed, smiling and turned to Korra's parents. She drew in a rushed breath. "Sorry, it took a while to get to you. Thank you for coming."

"Not at all," Senna replied.

"We're very grateful for the invitation," Tonraq added.

"Now," Asami said, glancing at Haruhi quickly. "Due to various reasons we have seated you two away from the others..."

"Of course," Tonraq rumbled.

Another knock on the door cut the conversation short. Tenzin and his family had arrived; the hall, as large as it was, was beginning to get crowded. Rohan stared around in bewilderment at those around him as everyone peered at the baby in Pema's arms. It was not long after when the floodgates opened and guests arrived in droves and the air filled with chatter. The Lims spoke to her for a brief moment before rushing off to find Hiroshi. The Onodas looked like they were planning on monopolizing the entire evening with meandering unfocused non-sequitors. Then there were the Singhs, the Tomoes, the Sakuras, the Akemis, the Nagatos, the Hiiragis, the Suzumiyas, the Takatsukis, the Hanekawas, the Asahinas, the Mikis, the Kirisames, the Takamachis, the Geinzuburusu, the Suturaifus, the Rokuharutsu... the list went on and on. When Asami looked around Korra's little group - well, Team Avatar plus Haruhi, Senna and Tonraq were nowhere to be seen. Hopefully they understood her obligation to greet all these people and they were all having a good time elsewhere.

"Asami. If I could steal you away," Hiroshi said abruptly behind her. Usual drill; every year. Time to say hello to the business partners. "Asami, this is Suyin Beifong,"

Asami shook her hand. Lin's sister and a major supplier of metal to Future Industries. "A pleasure to meet you," Asami said.

"Likewise," Suyin replied. "These are my children; Opal, Wing and Wei Beifong." Asami shook each of their hands in turn. "And I believe you have met Kuvira?"

"Yes," Asami smiled but shook Kuvira's hand regardless. "It's good to see you again. And thank you once again for everything you did."

"Just doing my job," Kuvira smiled. "Lucky I was there at the time."

Suyin looked questioningly at her for a moment before realization dawned and she smiled. "Asami dear; is there any chance you would be open to a dance tribute from Kuvira later on?" Asami caught the surprised look between Kuvira and Suyin but did not comment on it.

"Oh, well, yes. If Kuvira wants to of course."

"Of course she does," Suyin said with a wave of her hand. "Don't you, Kuvira?"

"Yes," Kuvira replied a little distantly.

"There are others waiting," Hiroshi said in a low voice.

"If you would excuse me for now, hopefully I will see you all later?" Asami moved away from the contingent representing Zaofu to find herself face to face with one of the council. Tarrlok. Something about his smile put her on edge, but her father was all smiles and unconcerned. "Miss Sato," he said, lifting her hand to kiss it.

"Councilman Tarrlok. It is good to see you again," she said even as she tugged her hand back and resisted the urge to wipe it against her dress.

"And you both," he replied. "As always, I am very grateful for your past campaign contributions."

A familiar face caught her eye. Perfect. "Sorry, if you can excuse me, I must say hello to the chief of police," Asami said, not letting her smile falter as she hurried to Lin who had arrived accompanied by Kya.

"Happy birthday, Asami," Lin said.

"Happy birthday," Kya echoed. At times it felt like she should know them better; they had met numerous times on air temple island, but all Asami's attention had been on Korra. "Thank you for inviting us."

"Thank you," she replied. "Is... Bumi also coming?"

"I think he was planning too, but I haven't seen him in a few hours. When we left the island both he and Tenzin were still there," Kya commented.

"Thinking about it, we were in that tea shop for a lot longer than intended," Lin mused. "Just as well we could get changed-" Her eyes widened. "I mean. Bumi might show up. Happy birthday," she said again in a louder voice.

Asami smirked and leant closer to Lin. "You don't have to worry. I won't say anything about you two."

"I... don't know... Oh never mind," Lin said with a roll of her eyes. Her cheeks reddened slightly. "So yes. Now you know." Asami just caught Kya's hand brushing against Lin's. "But, Miss sato, don't think I haven't noticed something about you too." Lin grinned.

Asami could not stop her smile. "Why Ms Beifong, I am sure I don't know what you're implying." She glanced around. "Still I hope you both have a good time," Asami added as she moved onto the next guest.

---

After an eternity of greeting guests it was time to see them all over again with herself as the centre of attention. Shuffled around into a backroom briefly, she emerged into the mansion's ballroom under a spotlight to officially start the party. Not that the lack of official start had diminished a lot of the guest's desire for food and drink, but she had to go through the motions regardless. At least her speech had more variance this year. She was able to thank the continuing success of the Fire Ferrets, add some new families to her thanks; notably Tenzin and Korra's. Hiroshi gave a typically florid speech, so much like every previous one but as always different. She really did need to figure out who he paid to write this stuff and possibly get it changed in the interim. It was all positive at least, but at times it just seemed a little excessive. A little too saccharine. And constantly harking back to her mother did not seem the done thing - as much as he liked to stress how amazing she was to succeed without one. Which felt less impressive contrasted to Korra, Mako and Bolin who survived without parents or indeed riches. Still, it would be bad not to hug Hiroshi when he finished. When he called her beautiful, intelligent, talented and was positive she would surpass all his greatness. Now; time for her present. Somewhere out in the darkened room a ripple of applause started, slowly spreading until the room was filled with the sound of clapping. As her eyes widened she caught glimpses of familiar faces in the crowd; Korra, Bolin, Mako, Kuvira, Tenzin and his family. And so many more.

Hiroshi stepped close to her chair, the grandiose, almost throne-like piece of furniture he insisted she sit in. He tapped his microphone as a second spotlight enveloped him and waved his hands at the crowd, trying to persuade them to settle.

"Thank you, thank you," he said, smiling. "Now, I have something very special for you Asami - a first for you and a first for the whole world." A servant marched out onto the stage, her back stiff as she carried something covered by a white cloth. "If you will, Asami?" Hiroshi said. Asami whipped the cloth back. An ouroboros loop of black material adorned with tiny cars was penned in by minature fences and a collection of what looked like buildings near the centre. She blinked and the nature of the present became clear. It was a scale model of a racetrack. She frowned. Future Industries was stamped on a side on one of the buildings. Her eyes widened. He had designed and built this for her? In secret? Hiroshi's smile was triumphant. "Presenting to you, my dear daughter; the Future Industries Asami Sato racetrack. Where Satomobiles from every manufacturer in the world will compete in a contest of mechanical expertise." He knelt beside her and wrapped his arms around her as the audience cheered. "Happy birthday, Asami," he said.

"Thank you," Asami responded, staring over his shoulder at the model. "It's... it's beautiful. I love it."

Hiroshi smiled as he pulled away. "But that's not all. I have another gift." He paused. "Well, no. I suppose, not so much a gift, as your birth-right. In any case, I leave the choice of accepting it to you." Asami sat up straighter. He was doing this now? She was ready. Had been ready for so long. But to announce in public like this? All the responsibility, the changes to her life; people would know eventually anyway.

She stood up and shouted to her father. "Yes. Of course I will." She darted over to him and hugged him while tears streamed from her eyes.

Hiroshi took her hand and stepped back so they were side by side. "And with that, I am pleased to announce that my daughter will now hold the position of vice president in Future Industries. To that end she will now be in charge of the Defense Development branch." Hiroshi smiled. "For those that don't know, our company, for it is now our - not my - company, is the top contractor to the United Forces. And this is what Asami will now be in charge of. Assuming you still want to?" Asami nodded vigorously, unable to speak for a moment. "She accepts!" A roar of applause rushed through the hall and Asami could do nothing but stand there smiling. "I believe we have some representatives here...?" A new spotlight picked out a table off to the left. "There they are, folks. General Kya, Bumi and General Iroh."

The trio stood and bowed to Asami and then to the audience. Iroh held up his hand for silence. "On behalf of the United Forces, we look forward to working with Miss Sato and the continued partnership of Future Industries and the United Forces." He plucked his glass from the table. "A toast; to Asami Sato."

The audience echoed the motion and raised their own glasses, each toasting her. It was incredible. Not dissimilar to other years, but so much had changed and was changing. It felt so much more staggering now. And before she could process it all it was time for the dancing. Sato family tradition dictated she select one partner for each year of her life to date. Three were already set; her father of course - he representing both himself and her mother to take two of the nineteen places. He swept her around the dance floor as the audience watched. Two songs later, and there was no way Asami was going to delay her next partner; Korra. Not completely comfortable with the dance, she was nevertheless strong and lively. Also a touch forceful and the one to lead the dance; a waltz - something Asami had prepped her for just the other day. Not that she minded in the slightest. For every lapse in grace and refinement, Korra made up with raw energy. Bolin was her next choice; a seeming natural dancer. He added his own moves to the routine, spinning her around, though ultimately he was much less forceful than Korra.

"Can... can I dance for Haruhi too?" Bolin asked.

Asami blinked at him. "Uh, sure. I suppose if my father can get away with it. I don't mind dancing with her too if she wants to...?"

Bolin shook his head. "She doesn't want to be the centre of attention right now. But she asked and so; here I am." He glanced over his shoulder and gave a thumbs up to the still maddeningly familiar girl as the next dance began. For a moment Asami wondered if it would be possible to subtly hint to Korra to take someone else's position as well, but it would be hard without being very, very obvious. Five dances down; fourteen to go. Friends and familiar faces first; Hasook, Toza, Tenzin, Pema, Jinora, Ikki, Meelo, Tonraq, Senna, Katara, Takeshi and Saionji. Two more. A cluster of attractive men kept looking expectantly whenever one song finished, always looking a little disgruntled as the next one began and Asami choose someone else. Well, all but one. Kyoya seemed very interested in Haruhi for some reason, a faint smile twisting his lips. Meanwhile the gorgeous but over-reacting Tamaki looked to be weeping closeby, the twins Hikaru and Kaoru either comforting or mocking him as per their tendencies. Mitsukuni looked unfazed and Takashi looked more or less bored. Same as always.

No. She could not dance with them. Not today. Wait. Most of her choices outside of Tenzin and Tonraq - and technically Korra but few in the room were to know - had been unimportant people in their social circles. But. Did it matter? Her birthday, her choices. Too much of the evening had already been consumed by talking to the important people - and more later would be as well. She glanced around the room. Who to choose at the close here. Wait. There; black and white - her last two partners. Kuvira's white dress with the silver lining looked ever more gorgeous as she approached, the metal bender raising an eyebrow at her. Suyin seemed excited her protoge had been picked, but the girl herself remained calm.

Kuvira left the others behind in terms of dancing skill. Never a foot wrong, always perfectly in sync with the music. But it was more than that. There was strength behind every one of her actions. She carried and moved around and alongside Asami without a falter. Asami was faintly aware that this was being watched more closely than even the dance with her father; even hushed whispered conversations stopped as everyone watched in amazement at the level of skill exhibited. It was like being carried by the wind, each movement seeming natural, each reaction to her partner effortless. And before she realized, the song was over and the hall was filled with excited applause. Kuvira bowed to her and then to all the on-lookers, melting back into the crowd as Asami was left with one final dance for this portion of the evening. She met his amber eyes as she walked towards him, his black uniform contrasting sharply with the multitude of other colours.

"May I have this dance?" she asked General Iroh.

He smiled. "It would be my pleasure." There was a ripple of murmuring around them as he acquiesced, as he reached inside his uniform and withdrew a single, red rose. Asami blinked. That was... unexpected. She stared at the flower and looked into his eyes again as nearby people gasped and chattered about the romantic connotations of the rich heiress and the general. It did seem like something right out of a romance plot. She took the flower.

"Thank you," she said. "It's beautiful."

Iroh was not as expert a dancer as Kuvira, but he knew precisely what he was doing. And Asami was not sure she looked away from him for a second of the dance. Less energetic than Korra, less flambouyant than Bolin, less perfect than Kuvira, but somehow the dance with Iroh was the most vivid. She never lost herself in the music or in remembering how to move with him. They simply danced, nothing more. And yet somehow afterward it was if every moment had been etched into her memory.

---

"And with that dance, I declare the floor open to all!" Hiroshi said. The moment the applause died down, Suyin spoke up.

"I request that Kuvira dance first." A low murmuring swept the audience. Suyin smiled. "For those not familiar with her skills, Kuvira has become known as the Jewel of Zaofu. I know you have already seen her dance once tonight, but if we can convince her one more time?"

The audience applauded, cheered and whooped excitedly. With an almost imperceptible roll of her eyes, Kuvira strode out into the centre of the dancefloor. A singular spotlight picked out the metalbender as she strode forwards and waited. Korra had been ready to declare Asami the most beautiful woman present earlier, but now she could not safely say she would not nominate Kuvira for that position instead. Or if nothing else, make it a tie between them. The dress changed so much of how she looked. In memory Kuvira was always in uniform, always holding herself to attention; ready for the fight, ready to do what was necessary. It was so striking to see her in white. Long flowing sleeves of transparent silk ran down her arms, her low-cut dress revealing much of her neck and shoulders, her skin dusted with glitter. The bright, shining points across her whole body matched her shoes. They glittered as she moved, the click of her heels clearly audible even over the crowd. Her hair was in a braid for a change and held in place with silvery metal clips. Something sparkled when she blinked too; her eyes had been dusted with silver eyeshadow and tiny white crystals.

Kuvira cleared her throat. She had no microphone but her voice was perfectly clear even in the vastness of the room. "For a long time the Fujian province has had a tradition of offering a specific dance performance in honor of native maidens once they come of age. The practice has it's roots in the aftermath of many wars between the Nam and Fu tribes. The conflict between the tribes lasted many, many years and both sides increasingly desperately sought a way to resolve the fighting. When they eventually brokered peace after decades of war it was with the marriage of a child nominated from within each of the tribes. As neat a solution as it sounds, neither tribe were entirely willing to back down on their behaviour; the peace agreement was only in effect as long as the Nam tribe child, Tsubasa, lived. On each successive year she lived, the two tribes joined together in a dance performance for her birthday in celebration of their temporary harmony." Kuvira's gaze swept around the room. "This practice was more successful than anticipated; Tsubasa lived just shy of one hundred years, and by the time of her death all hatred between the tribe had been extinguished." There was some low chuckling from the audience. "But those who live in the province still honor Tsubasa and each maiden as they come of age. For this occasion only, I shall now perform the dance performed on Tsubasa's birthday for a non native of the Fujian region. Miss Sato."

Kuvira bowed, took a deep breath, held it, and raised her right leg upwards as she lifted herself up onto the toes of left foot. With almost imperceptible trembling, Kuvira's right foot was now level with her head. The music began while she held the pose; a slow and sonorous piece. Kuvira's movements were all languid but seemed to require contortions beyond those comfortable for a human.

"Ouch," Bolin muttered close by. "That looks like it would hurt." Haruhi snickered beside him, drawing Korra's attention away from Kuvira for just a moment. She frowned at the pair.

Mako hushed them as Kuvira pushed herself up into the air, her leg still raised. The momentum from her left leg sent her into a spin, and she landed without a trace of awkwardness, her heel striking the floor with a heavy click. It almost looked like she fell, but there was no falter in Kuvira's movements. It was all part of the dance; she was under complete control. Kuvira let her left leg slide behind her as she let her right down from its position.

"Ow." Bolin winced.

"Wow," Korra breathed. Kuvira swung herself in an arc and sprang from the floor onto both feet again. With a flick of her wrist, her sash came undone and wafted in the air after her hand movements. She darted around the floor, sash trailing, circling and arcing patterns in the air. She was moving like no earthbender Korra had seen. The element was all about sturdiness and weight over speed; hence why it was the slowest but hardest hitting. But Kuvira was moving like she was skating on ice. She had the speed and lightness of an airbender. She was as graceful as a waterbender. There had been more than one trip to see theatre shows with spectacular dancers when she lived with Asami, but this was something else. Kuvira was more impressive than any professional dancer in the theatres of Republic City. With a flick of her wrist, the sash curled around Kuvira's waist again, and the metal clips from her hair were in her hands. Metal bending too then; the clips merged into a shining metal ribbon, the motion and movement somewhat different to her sash. Despite the lack of support, her braid never came undone even as it followed all her movements across the floor. The metal ribbon flickered through the air at a frenzied pace and curled into Kuvira's palm. She clapped one hand on top of the other and as she seperated them, a sword formed in the gap. The bladed edge did not last long and it soon twisted into a flower. Just like the one Kuvira have given Korra during her convalescence.

Korra cheered and applauded with the crowd as the reverb from the last beat of the drum echoed in the hall. Kuvira smiled and bowed low, turning to face each section of the audience in turn - each area applauding louder as she did so. Around her people began to chant 'More', the word picked up and repeated back by an increasing number of people. Even Asami and Bolin joined in.

Kuvira held up her hands and waited for the crowd to quieten.

"I will be honored to dance again." The crowd erupted into new cheers. It was short lived as Kuvira held her hands up and shook her head. "However," she said as the crowd quietened. "Our traditions require me to dance with a different partner in a subsequent performance. Since I had no partner before, now I must choose someone to accompany me."

Kuvira was smiling knowingly as the crowd shuffled their feet, low muttering filling the hall. Several people pushed their way closer to the front of the crowd; younger men and women, all staring at Kuvira, each trying to catch her eye. She did not look at any of them; instead Kuvira's gaze swept across the crowd and settled onto Korra.

Korra blinked and looked all around her before looking back to Kuvira. She pointed at herself and Kuvira nodded. "Korra, may I dance with you?" she asked.

"I… I would love to," she called back. "Dance, I mean. But… I don't have much practice?" she said, grinning weakly, aware of the awed looks all around her. The crowd's attention was on her rather than Kuvira. The metalbender strode forward, the crowd parting in front of her. She clasped Korra's hand and raised it.

"Just follow my lead," she said in a low voice and with a gentle tug, Korra found herself being lead back out onto the dance floor and in full view of everyone. The crowd began applauding again. Bolin was shouting something behind her.

Her back felt stiff, her feet awkward and uncoordinated but Kuvira did not let go of her hand. Once they were in the centre of the cleared space she turned to face Korra.

"Kuvira?" Korra asked in a low voice. "I know I danced with Asami before, but I'm not sure I can do what you... do?"

"Don't worry," Kuvira smiled, her voice just audible over the applauding onlookers. "Just show off your firebending forms. People do know you as a member of the Fire Ferrets after all. Think of this like a duel. So; we begin by bowing."

Kuvira bowed low, Korra mimicking the motion a second later. Just like the drills with Jinora. Despite Kuvira's advice, water bending forms seemed more appropriate to the occasion. The music swelled and the dance began. Korra reacted to each of Kuvira's movements in turn, careful not to actually bend. At least with water bending forms, she could not inadvertently let lose a flame volley or something like that. A tsungi horn joined the music and the beat increased. She could cope and soon found herself getting lost in the beat. Kuvira's sash was in her hand again as it twirled through the air. She leapt up, her head thrown back, her back and body arching into a crescent. She twirled through the air, once, twice, Korra unable to take her eyes from the spectacle, her own movements mere after-thoughts; clumsy and uncoordinated.

Kuvira's hands were on her waist. "Hold onto me," she said grinning. Korra smiled back. "And just keep looking at me, or you'll get dizzy."

Korra stared into her eyes as Kuvira shifted closer. This was fun, intense, different. Kuvira's hands tightened on her waist and spun them around. The room whirled into a blur around her and all she could see with any clarity was Kuvira, still holding onto her. It was like one of those carnival rides, but this felt faster. Safer. There was something more comforting about Kuvira's hands holding onto her rather than the crude mechanical devices that kept them strapped into their seats. She still felt safe even as Kuvira used one hand to undo her sash again, her other hand still holding tight to Korra's waist. The thin silk sash formed a circle around them, the end rippling through the air with the speed of their spin. Kuvira's hand twitched and now the sash encircled Korra's waist.

"Ready?" Kuvira asked.

Ready for what? "Sure," Korra replied. Better to trust her.

Kuvira's hand tightened and the world jolted into focus. Kuvira still span on her feet, her hand still gripping the sash. The fabric caught and Korra span in the opposite direction to Kuvira and the world blurred again. But there was nothing to centre her attention on this time. She alone was at the centre of the whirl. Her feet jarred against each other and it felt like she was off-balance on a slope. The sash was gone and the ground was who knew where at this stage. A brief glimpse of Kuvira looking worried and darting forward. She fell heavily back against something that shifted but held firm.

"You alright?" a voice asked. Korra looked up, her head spinning. Mako.

"Yeah... I think so," she mumbled as she waited for the sense the ground was tilting to fade.

"Korra!" Kuvira said rushing up to them. "Korra, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have tried that last bit when you'd never done it before. Are you feeling okay?"

Korra smiled. "I'll... be okay. It's fine." She giggled. "Just... Wow. That was so much fun; I never knew dancing could be quite like that." Korra took Kuvira's hand. "Thank you."

"My pleasure," Kuvira smiled. "I had a lot of fun too. But it's not over yet." Kuvira straightened and addressed the room. "Earth Kingdom tradition dictates that whoever catches a falling dancer must then dance with them next. Assuming they're able. Korra?"

"I'm able. Mako?"

"I don't know..."

"Ah," Kuvira said. "Since Mako is of the Fire Nation, then-"

"He'll do it!" Bolin said, pushing through the crowd to them. "He's half Earth Kingdom after all. That totally counts." He smiled at the onlookers. "Come on guys! I think they need some encouragement." He winked at Korra and started chanting Mako's name. The crowd soon joined in, all chorusing his name.

"Bolin..." Mako muttered.

"Oh, come on, Mako," Korra said, wobbling a little but confident enough to take his hand. With only a weak protest he followed her to the centre of the floor. A new wave of applause and cheering spread through the crowd.

"Just so you know, I haven't done this since I was a kid," Mako warned, his gaze flicking across the crowd. He stared hard at something before turning back to face her. Korra looked; Asami. She waved and Korra smiled, waving back. Okay. So, little embarrassed after stumbling. No. Think of this like pro-bending. She coped fine in front of crowds before. She had relished their attention and cheers. Korra looked back at Mako. Huh. It had not been so clear before how different their heights were until they were stood face to face like this. She had to look up to meet his gaze and see his... pretty amber eyes. They almost looked like fire. A fire bender to his core it seemed. Korra stared. Had they always looked like that? Mako looked embarrased for a moment and tensed up. Then - just as with her dance with Kuvira - the music started, the tempo slow, and his body relaxed.

"So... what do we do this time?" Korra asked.

"You dragged me here, but you don't-" Mako scowled and shook his head. "Okay. Okay, I know this one dance; the Kataango." He smiled. "It's the dance that your predecessor had with Katara. It's... been a while but... Basically I'll firebend and you fight it with whatever you want."

"I can totally do that."

The drums reverberated and that was a good a signal as any to begin. Mako and Korra circled each other. A little awkward; both were on edge, waiting for the other to make the first move. Mako kept eyeing the crowd nervously. Bolin was whooping and cheering alongside Haruhi. More instruments joined the drums and Korra found a comfortable rhythm. Fire bending was almost second nature to her. When Mako kicked she ducked. When she kicked back she expected him to mimic her. To her utter amazement Mako sprang up into the air, twisting as he moved to land still facing her. The crowd cheered around them as the gradually sped up and became more and more intense. While Kuvira's movements were all light and graceful, Mako's exuded power at every step. He constantly moved, somersaulted and leapt. He covered vast stretches of the floor in seconds, some movements more after-images than perceptible dance moves. What would it look to actually bend elements with the dance moves? For Mako to produce red fire as be span in the air, twirling fast and for longer than expected? She could compliment with blue water. Like ribbons of red and blue all around them. Korra wanted to see that. Maybe one day. When her secret was out.

Mako rushed forward, hands clutching Korra's as he leant into her. She leant back. Kuvira had seemed more or less equal in weight to her; Mako by contrast was obviously heavier. He remained in the centre as once again Korra found herself spun around. No sash to pull a complicated move like Kuvira this time; all they did was spin. With a crash the music ended and Mako screeched to a halt a second later. Korra kept moving, but this time there was a hand beneath her back to stop her from hitting the floor. Mako pulled her back up to him and Korra smiled. "That... was fun," she said in between heavy breaths.

"Yeah." Mako broke into a grin as he breathed hard staring back into her eyes. The crowd applauded around them, people whistled and her cheeks felt hot. Korra ducked her head at some nearby giggling.

"Thank you," Korra murmured as she stepped back. Something had changed with this dance and now other couples were finally stepping onto the floor, the band already starting on a new piece. But the urge to dance was still there. One more dance and then maybe a break. If she danced with Bolin then he would be the last of her close friends for her to pair up with this evening. Time to dance with him. Korra excused herself from Mako and headed towards-

"Miss? Can I dance with you?" Korra blinked at the stranger.

"Um, sure. Well, maybe later okay? I just want to dance with-" Her heart sank. Bolin had lead Haruhi out onto the floor and the pair were now dancing too, chatting away as they moved. Maybe later then? "Ah. Hey, you?" Korra asked the stranger.

"Um, Brock," the guy with short spiky hair and a flushed expression corrected.

"Brock, sure," Korra smiled. "Let's go then." Just this dance, then she would go ask Bolin. She kept turning to keep an eye on both Bolin and Haruhi as they danced, Brock frowning as she kept staring over her shoulder. Haruhi was smiling. Bolin was smiling. Korra somehow just did not feel capable of it. She wanted to be... there. And make Bolin smile too.

---

Korra picked at a bowl of fruit as she watched Bolin and Haruhi commence a fifth dance. How long as this going to take?

"Oh wow! You're Korra of the Fire Ferrets!" Korra jumped and turned to find a stranger staring at her in awe.

"Yeah," she said, turning back - unwilling to look away from the dancers for too long and miss her chance.

"I'm Noreji and I have been listening to all your games and I'm probably your biggest fan! I mean, I know the team is more than just you, but you're definitely the best player." The stranger lapsed into silence for a moment. "Can I have your autograph?" They held up a blank sheet of paper and a pen.

"Oh, sure," Korra said, smiling. She dragged her gaze from the dance floor and scribbled her name on the sheet of paper. Noreji stared at it for a moment, thanked her and vanished back into the crowd. Same as always. Having fans was a curious situation. Korra was faintly aware of the concept; that there were people who more than simply liking watching pro-bending invested themselves in the outcome of the game. That they hoped she and the Fire Ferrets would prevail over the opposing team - over all the opposing teams. But it seemed to be more than that; they wanted to know about her, talk to her about her life outside of pro-bending. Not content to just watch her play but learn more things about her. Noreji at least did not pester her with the usual questions regarding her somewhat mysterious past. Korra had taken to always giving the same somewhat vague answer; she had come from a remote collection of tents in the far north - somewhere without even a name. She got bored with life there so she took a chance and came to Republic City. The story grew firmer and more concrete here; Asami Sato found her on a charity outing and impressed with her bending prowess decided to form a team to compete in the pro-bending leagues. Oh and while, yes, she did share a name with that kidnapped daughter of Chief Tonraq, so did a huge number of other girls so no conclusions should be drawn from that. The lie became easier and easier to tell with practice; the first few times she almost forgot to express her hope that Tonraq and Senna might one day be reunited with their daughter - whether or not she even was the Avatar.

Noreji had either mentioned her to someone else or other people recognised her from pro-bending. She fended off a few more requests for autographs, repeated the same tired lines and hoped vainly to meet someone new - someone who wasn't just interested due to her pro-bending career. Okay. Bolin and Haruhi were no longer on the dance floor. Good. No, not good. They were at the sweets table now. Haruhi was laughing at something as Bolin grinned, her hand resting against his chest. This was all wrong; Bolin had barely talked to her all night. Bolin had always wanted to talk to her before; she had had a better conversation with Mako today and he typically tried to avoid her at all costs. All she wanted to get Bolin on his own for a little while. Korra huffed and turned her back on them. Her mother and father had taken to the floor, murmuring to each other as they danced. Lin and Kya seemed to be inseparable ever since they arrived. Bumi was laughing as he wobbled across the floor; Jinora and Ikki clinging to an arm, Meelo on his shoulders. And... who was that interrupting her parents dance? Oh. Mako. Korra smiled as he danced with Senna.

Asami was somehow still smiling across the way. Hiroshi had been ushering her from person to person since the night began. This was so different to Korra's birthday. So many more people. So much formality. Asami had seemed to enjoy the quiet family occasion before. But then she also enjoyed this crowded, lavish affair. Given the choice, which would Korra rather? The quiet probably. It should at least exclude someone like Asami's current conversational partner; Tarrlok. Asami seemed about as fond of conversing with him as Korra had been in that brief meeting in the hospital. But Asami never stopped talking or moving onto someone else. Who was she with now? The name escaped Korra but her next conversational partner looked very much like that super-rich investor she saw in the paper every now and again. Someone Ikari maybe? Asami seemed to be pretty amazing at this socialising thing. Was the Avatar allowed to be that personable to people? Former Avatars certainly resolved trouble and calmed situations down, but would it be best to cultivate all these alliances and meetings before things went wrong? At times like this Asami seemed so much older than nineteen - or at least more mature. She talked and engaged in the same kind of inane contentless blather a lot of the older people did, but people still hung on her every word. And she did it all with a smile on her face and remained polite to a fault. Somehow it all made her feel like a child. There was an odd gulf between her and Bolin, and Mako and Asami. Youth versus maturity. Or maybe just fun versus serious. Not that Asami was serious all the time. Not like Mako.

Bumi strode towards her, kids still hanging onto him. "Hey Korra."

"Hi, Bumi. Hi kids."

"Korra," they chorused.

Bumi groaned and trying to shift Meelo to a more comfortable position. "You seen Kya? I reckon it's her turn with this lot. I need a sit down. It's like the time I had to carry three platypus bears through the mountains..."

Korra smiled and interrupted before the anecdote could really get going. "I think she's with Lin."

Bumi stared down. "Any chance you can let me go fetch your aunt?"

"Nope!" Ikki said. Jinora however let go of his arm and wandered to the nearby food.

Bumi sighed. "Korra? Any chance you can get my sister?"

"Sure." Lin and Kya were at least nearby, airbending training coming in handy as she weaved between the dancing couples.

"Korra!" Lin said in surprise. "You... want to dance with one of us?"

"Not... right now," Korra said. "I've come for Kya actually."

"So you do want to dance with me?" Kya asked, looking a little flushed.

"Again; not right now. Your brother sent me to pass the kids off to their next victim," Korra replied jerking her thumb over her shoulder.

Kya peered past her. "Is it really my turn again already?"

"'Friad so," Korra said.

Kya sighed. "Sorry, Lin. I'll catch up soon."

"I'll be waiting," Lin replied as Kya set off towards Bumi. She coughed. "Korra, I suppose you might be wondering why I've spent so much time with Kya this evening..."

"Not really," Korra smiled. "You're not that subtle."

Lin sniffed. "So you say. You neither."

Korra blinked. "And... what do you mean by that?"

Lin smiled. "Let's just say I think you could take a starring role in a certain episode of Do You Remember? Maybe the one about the waterbender and the heiress?" She cocked an eyebrow and Korra felt her cheeks flush.

"It's... not like I'm embarrassed, but..."

Lin held up her hand. "Say no more. I know how it is. So, we'll just both just keep quiet about what we know. Okay?"

Korra nodded. "Okay."

"Good. Now, while Kya babysits, I think I am going to get dessert."

Korra headed back the way she came passing Kya on the way. "How does Bumi keep up with this lot?" she muttered as she dragged two airbender kids and had Meelo across her shoulders. The older waterbender studied Korra for a moment. "I could make do this you know."

"You could, but I think you might get in trouble," Korra noted, backing away.

"Bah," Kya said. "You owe me later on then. You are not exempt from looking after the kids."

"I'll look forward to it," Korra replied glancing at the grinning children. Stepping past Kya, she noticed Kuvira and one of the Beifong children leaving the dance floor just ahead.

"Kuvira," she called.

"Korra," Kuvira smiled as she looked back. She gestured to her companion. "May I introduce you to Opal Beifong. Opal, this is... Korra." Kuvira trailed off as Opal's smile grew wider.

"It's really you isn't it? I..." she glanced around quickly. "I promise I won't tell," she stage-whispered.

"I would appreciate it."

"And... would I be able to dance with you?" Opal asked.

"Oh. Sure," Korra said, glancing around. Neither Bolin nor Haruhi were in sight. "But... I'm about at my limit on dancing ability."

"Not to worry," Kuvira said. "I'll give you some pointers. Opal?"

They stuck to the edge of the floor, Kuvira calling out some specific actions, the directions seemingly at odds with momentum at times, but after only a few moments where she wound up stood on Opal's foot, Korra got the hang of the different dance style. Opal got tired fast and the trio clustered close to the food table.

"I'm still amazed by your dance before," Korra said. "It was... well... amazing. And beautiful."

"Thank you," Kuvira replied. "The result of a lot of practice I assure you. I am glad you liked it though."

"Liked it? I loved it! Those moves, how you held yourself." Korra stared at Kuvira's leg. "Does it hurt? I mean when you lift your leg that high and...?"

Kuvira smiled. "I've been doing it since I was a kid. Might have hurt once but I can't remember. Could be I'm naturally flexible."

Opal chewed on some fruit. "I tried doing the splits once after watching her. It ended amazingly badly and the less said about that the better."

"I remember that!" Kuvira started chuckling. "Weren't you like, ten? And you were doing it like this..." Kuvira widened her stance, sinking towards the floor, her legs awkwardly splayed.

"Stop it! Don't embarrass me in front of the-" Opal mouthed the word 'Avatar'.

"Okay, okay." Kuvira winked at Korra. "I'll tell you later." Korra laughed. "So. Any idea if you can make it to Zaofu some time soon?"

Korra considered the question for a moment. "Not sure yet. I will tell you when I do though. When things are a bit quieter maybe?"

"Just let me know when. We can show you the sights, right Opal?" Kuvira said.

Opal nodded. "The best time to go is during the arts and culture week. We have this big festival with rides and attractions. And there's music and dancing - perfect since you seem to like it so much. All the tribes of the Fujian province come together for it. And you can see Kuvira win the dance contest for a third year in a row!"

"Wow..." Korra breathed.

"Try to win, Opal, try," Kuvira insisted, trying not to look smug. Opal raised an eyebrow. "You never know. But..." She sighed. "This year I aim to get a higher score - or a perfect score at last. That's been my goal since the start," Kuvira said.

"Your dance before looked pretty perfect," Korra said.

"Thank you. But I did make mistakes. And I really should have been more careful when I twirled you," Kuvira replied.

Korra shook her head. "Don't worry! At least Mako caught me. Still, that festival sounds great. The Southern Water Tribe has something a bit like that. I expect the Earth Kingdom's is pretty different."

"Ah, we have lots of-"

"Hope I'm not interrupting," Suyin interrupted, resting her hands on Kuvira's shoulders. There was a momentary tension in Kuvira before she relaxed.

"Suyin," Kuvira said.

"And this is Korra I presume?" Suyin beamed at her and winked. So she knew too. Made sense.

"Ms Beifong," Korra bowed. "It is a pleasure to meet you. Kuvira has been telling me all about the delights of Zaofu."

"Oh how wonderful!" Suyin exclaimed. "You really must come and visit. However; while it's so good to see you all having fun, but if I may, I would like to borrow Kuvira to introduce her to this just darling group I've met. Oh, mister Lorunzu! I'll be right there! Please excuse us."

"Opal, Korra," Kuvira nodded before being ushered across the floor.

"You know; you look a lot like your mom," Korra commented once they were out of earshot.

Opal smiled. "I get that a lot."

"So do I oddly enough." Korra glanced around. No one seemed to be paying them much attention. "You'd think that might give me away a little, but..." She trailed off.

They smiled and lapsed into silence for a moment. Something drew Opal's attention away. "Interesting..."

"Interesting?"

Opal nodded ahead of her. Asami was engaged - and Korra was not sure the word had been so aptly utilised before - in conversation with a Water Tribe man kitted out in Earth Kingdom attire. A hunched woman with glasses was stood nearby, a pen rushing a mile a minute across a small notepad in her hands. "The guy talking to Asami?" Korra blinked. "Did he just throw that breadstick over her shoulder?"

"Yeah... That's Varrick. He's head of trains, transport and security technology in Zaofu. Basically... he's like our Mister Sato. Just without the family. And less of an attention span. He has these really grandiose plans about building a trainline between Republic City and Zaofu. He could do it too." Opal sighed. "I just don't like him that much."

"He seems... Energetic," Korra commented. "Wait. Varrick? Does he produce fair ground rides?"

"Amongst other things. Lot of people seem to like him." Opal shook her head. "I don't though. I hate how he treats his assistant - that girl with the pad. She's Zhu Li. All she does is follow him around and do whatever he tells her to."

"That's pretty bad," Korra said, frowning. Asami had moved on from Varrick, who was now talking to someone else. A passerby tried to talk to Zhu Li, but she paid no attention as Varrick began raiding the table and started blathering at another guest.

Opal touched Korra's arm. "Korra? Do you mind if I go for now? I want to see if I can get Zhu Li to dance. At least try and give her something fun to do tonight."

"Sure. Go right ahead. It was really nice meeting you," Korra said.

"And you," Opal smiled.

Okay. Enough of a rest. And as much fun as it was to meet all these people, it was time to get back to the dancefloor. Her heart sank a little. Bolin and Haruhi had started dancing again and were engaged in smiling conversation some distance away. Okay. So, if not Bolin - well; she may as well help Kya - at least before she was lumbered with the kids at an inopportune moment. The waterbender heaved a sigh of relief as she passed Jinora and Ikki to Korra and pulled Meelo from her back. Korra's slightly awkward dancing with Tenzin's children soon included their father and later Bumi. He briefly leapt to attention when Iroh came to join with the laughing group, but Iroh swiftly waved him to relax as he took a turn with the laughing Jinora and Ikki. Opal returned from an unsuccessful attempt to lure Zhu Li, and she and Korra put Kuvira's dance lessons into practice. When Mako and Kya wandered over, Korra thought he might want to dance with Opal, but to her surprise, he asked to dance with Korra again. They broke away from the family cluster as Katara wandered into the mix, leaving Mako and Korra to swoop around the dance floor. Korra looked away whenever they neared Bolin, and Asami always took note to wave when they strayed close to her. At least she had managed to dance with everyone but Bolin; he did not seem to want to dance with her and all his attention was fixated on Haruhi. This was better, Korra concluded. She was having a good time with everyone instead of focusing all her attention on just one person like he was.

---

What a night. What a party. New responsibilities made people more eager to talk to her than in previous years. Though Asami did have to wonder how much of that was attempts to get a beneficial situation for their benefit? No. It would not do to be too cynical. It had all been good fun. A few less pleasant attendees, but for the most part everyone conversation had been useful. But now the party was winding down; most of the guests on their way home or in the process of gathering things together to head for home. She waved goodbye to the somewhat cryptic Suzumiyas and their less than patient daughter who had haughtily declared herself bored at the start of the evening and whose mood had seemed to only get worse. At least she had been playing with those other kids. Or doing something with the other kids while that one boy seemed to be trying to play at referee.

"Asami!" Bolin called as he rushed up to her and interrupted her thought process. "Have you seen Korra?"

Asami shook her head. "Not recently. Last time I saw her, she was talking to the Beifongs. Is something wrong?"

"Ah, nothing too bad. I, er..." He scratched at his head. "I never danced with her. I was just talking to Haruhi and before I knew it the evening was gone."

Asami glanced around. "Where is your date?"

"Ah, she had to go home early for work tomorrow. And since she's gone, I figured I could dance with Korra."

Asami nodded. "Fair enough." She peered into the crowd. "Maybe she's over there?" Bolin rushed off.

"Asami, dear," Suyin Beifong announced loudly making Asami jump.

"Ms Beifong," Asami replied bowing.

"Thank you for a simply delightful evening, but we really must be going. We hope to see you again next year, unless you decide to visit Zaofu?"

"I would love to," Asami said. "If my schedule allows for it." She smiled at Kuvira. "Thank you again for that tribute. It was quite beautiful."

Kuvira nodded. "My pleasure Miss Sato."

More guests left, the remaining people more obviously clustered in little groups around the edge of the room. She had not yet seen him leave, but where was-

"Miss Sato. I am afraid if I am any later I may be considered AWOL."

Asami smiled and turned to Iroh. "Then I shan't keep you any later; thank you for the rose."

"And thank you for both inviting me and the wonderful evening. I had a great time. I do look forward to working with you in the coming weeks."

"As do I," Asami replied with a smile. She watched him go and said goodbye to more and more guests as the crowd thinned. And there, nursing a drink by herself; Korra. Asami berated herself; she had neglected her. "Hey," she called as she walked over.

"Asami," Korra grinned.

"Did you enjoy the party?" Asami asked as she sat down beside her.

"Oh yeah," Korra replied with a grin. "I mean, I was a little overwhelmed at first, but I met so many new people. And the dancing; that was just amazing."

"That it was." She trailed off and watched a few more people leave. "Oh, Bolin was looking for you," Asami added.

"He was? Oh," Korra said. She muttered something that might have been 'Too late'.

Asami frowned. Time to change topic. "I feel overwhelmed still."

"You do? Oh, all that stuff your dad gave you?" Korra asked, her mood seeming to lift with the change in subject.

"Yeah. All these new responsibilities and these things I need to do. I mean; it's exciting, but there's so much I've got to do now, so many people depending on me."

"Just so long as you remember to sleep. Don't wind up like your dad," Korra commented.

"Urgh. Yeah, don't want that. If you ever see me go more than a day without sleep, then I demand you put me to bed." Oh, no, no, no. That was supposed to be an innocent comment. Hopefully Korra would not pick up on the potential insinuation.

"Will do," Korra replied. Sounded like the thought had not even crossed her mind. The Avatar sighed. "I know how you feel though. I'm not far off the end of my airbending training either. After that... It seems to vary from Avatar to Avatar."

"You'll be fine, sweetie," Asami said. "Though. Sorry, but I still have duties this evening. I ought to say goodbye to the stragglers. What are your plans for the night? We can put you up here if you like, or...?"

"A sleepover would be fun, but I'm supposed to be doing some drills with Tenzin early tomorrow. I should probably go with him and my parents when they leave. I'll be back soon though."

Asami smiled. "Just come find me before you do go." She kissed Korra on the cheek. "Thanks for coming."

"I wouldn't have missed it for the world."

---

The next morning was a chance for Asami to properly look through her array of presents. The most common gift was minor variations on expensive perfumes - each from limited runs of extremely rare flowers. A few guests brought framed art and jewelry. The Beifong family left a metal sculpture produced by Huan Beifong. It looked like nothing more than a metallic tornado but Suyin insisted it symbolized the power of femininity. Asami stared at it again with breakfast and tried to puzzle the object out. Nope; still could not see it. Metal whirlwind it was; it looked like something a metal bender might produce if they were also an airbender. Asami blinked. So, something like Korra could produce if she was so inclined. Could she bend metal? Asami made a mental note to ask her the next time they met up. Tenzin and his family had gifted her with a prized Air Nomad medallion. Once it had been given to Avatar Yangchen's best friend in the whole world; Tsuruya. Tenzin had concluded it was a tradition best retained and so gifted it to Avatar Korra's best friend. This last part was delivered in hasty whispers with a wary glance around him. Possibly a bit overzealously paranoid. His children had each produced hand-made birthday cards; ones that Asami carefully kept seperate from the mass produced - if still expensive - cards from everyone else.

Korra's pearl would look great in a bracelet she decided. That needed to go to a jeweler sometime soon. It was so touching that Korra would dive like that to get her something so beautiful from the undersea world. Wait. Bolin. She glanced at the clock. Still a few hours before his promised personal message. She have would need to remember to tune the radio in with plenty of time to spare. And just where had Mako picked up such a close match to the stolen bag? Curious. Presumably it was not the same bag and she would hope not stolen- Someone knocked on the door derailing her train of thought.

"Come in," she called. Takeshi entered the room with a hawk perched on his arm.

"This hawk just arrived for you, ma'am," he said. "From General Iroh," he said with emphasis. He held a small bag in his other hand. Inside was a beautiful, embroidered cloth wrapped around a small box. Just what the prince sent her? Inside was an astonishingly beautiful silver necklace with an unfamiliar stone at the centre. A note was tucked into the edge of the padded box; 'Asami, When I was younger I often accompanied my grandfather when he visited the dragon colonies. On one visit I found this stone inside a caldera they nested in. I had forgotten I ever picked it up until you reminded me of it last night. And so I feel you deserve to wear such a magnificent jewel. Once again; happy birthday.'

Asami lifted the necklace out and stared at it. Not great for a day at the office; too expensive, too delicate, too likely to attract attention. But the next time she attended a formal event; she would ensure she wore this. Smiling she carefully replaced the necklace and hid the box in amongst her other jewelry. Now; to work.

---

The United Forces base was unfamiliar territory. Despite never having visited before, everyone seemed to recognise her. No one on the base seemed ignorant of the fact that she was now their liason with Future Industries. Officials made sure to at least shake her hand and greet her. A few pressed for quieter meetings in the future to discuss this and that, some new project that had gained notice and they were interested in developing prototypes and potentially scaled up production. Asami agreed to them all, arranging the dates stretching over the course of the next two months. Today however, her father had arranged numerous interviews, media people snapping photographs as she was lead around the compound. Every other second felt like a photo opportunity. Asami estimated there must be more pictures of her taken now than during the entirety of her photoshoot the previous day.

Next were the interviews, a huge array of publications wanting her to answer a number of questions. The most commonly asked was her reasoning for accepting the role. Apparently career progression was not enough. Fortunately Asami had prepared some more involved replies.

"I want to help the Avatar." The journalist looked at her expectantly and Asami continued. "I don't think we should leave the burden of resolving world crises to one person as happened throughout history. We are fortunate to have someone like the Avatar but she do everything and surely she is human too. The world is changing every day and we are fast finding new potential in invention and technology. With that I feel we should begin to rely less and less on bending and human endurance. I want my generation to be the one that improves the lives of everyone in the world."

She smiled, giving the journalist a moment to finish scribbling notes. Her father seemed pleased and nodded from his corner of the room. He was proud of her; proud of her convictions, her certainty and her answer.

"Okay," the journalist asked. "So what are your plans for future development?"

"I think in the past there has been far too much focus on weaponry within the United Forces. I am far more interested in mobility and safety of the United Forces troops and their humanitarian efforts. The drive towards all-terrain vehicles, airships capable of operating in gale-force winds will be central to assist with evacuations and supply runs. Water filtration and housing are also vital factors in these efforts, and I feel have been overlooked in terms of their importance. We already have enough ways of attacking an enemy; let's focus on helping those who need our help."

Lunch was yet another photo opportunity; the cuisine a major step up from what she swiftly gathered was typically available on the base - outside catering it seemed. She snuck out after an hour and sat in her Satomobile to hear Bolin's message. Iroh found her there shortly afterward and offered her a tour of the base. As much as she had thrived while photographed and grilled about her plans, a quiet moment with Iroh was unexpectedly refreshing. He had no specific plan besides wandering. They strolled past the barracks, offices, facilities and the gigantic hangers where the airships floated. Asami replied to Iroh's questions and comments even as she tallied improvements to be made, streamlined designs, alternate ideas.

"And here," Iroh said, "Is our subterranean division." He gestured at a group of earthbenders running through a drill. They formed a queue each ready and waiting for their turn to, smash sections of rock and moving the debris in precise grid formations as they dug down towards a goal.

"All earthbenders?" Asami asked.

"Naturally. Unless...?"

"We have been working on scaling drills recently at F.I.," Asami commented watching the men move rock and earth, their faces streaked with sweat. "At a large enough size they should be able to crush that kind of rock without much trouble. And without relying on the endurance of your benders. As good as that may be," she added as Iroh frowned.

"I apologise, Miss Sato. It's just the expectation is we rely on the abilities of a soldier rather than a fallible mechanical device."

"I'm aware of the mindset," Asami said smoothly. "I see it as a chance to combine the two and play to the strength of both. The drill allows the benders time to rest and recharge. Exhaustion is the number one delaying factor in many rescues is it not?"

"Yeah... yeah," Iroh said, nodding.

"So why not ensure that a mix of benders and non-benders can assist with rescues?"

Iroh laughed. "I love it. Ah, Miss Sato, why can't the Equalists say something like that rather than all this anti-bender rhetoric?"

"I'm not sure I like being compared to them," Asami said, her chest tightening and a chill sweeping up her spine.

Iroh's smile vanished. "I do apologise." He looked worried. "I know they have caused..." he glanced around. "Your... 'friend' more than a little stress. It was a purely philosophical observation. For all their calls for equality, all the Equalists seem to do is rail against the benders in society. And these lofty claims about taking bending away; something we have not yet been able to corroborate. They've attacked criminal gangs only so far and none have come forward about losing their abilities." He smiled. "Still, it is remarkable; you - a non-bender too - wish to work to ensure that both are capable of performing the same task with mechanical enhancements. A far better philosophy I must say."

Asami smiled and glanced away from him. "Thank you. I doubt I could convince them of that sadly."

"You may unfortunately be right. They are caught up with rhetoric and aggression rather than trying to find the common ground." Iroh glanced around again. "Let's not dwell on this. There is still more to see here, and I have no stomach for them or their antics."

They stroll on further and approached the docks.

"Those are sea-rescue vessels?" Asami asked pointing to a rank of ships, their decks piled high with timber.

"Yes. You have another idea for improvement?" Iroh cocked an eyebrow.

"Hundreds I think. But for these; rubber."

"Rubber?" Iroh asked confused.

"Yes. Made thin, it can form air-tight spaces that can be filled with air. At the moment we'd need an airbender to inflate them quick enough - good luck given their scarcity - but we might be able to engineer pumps instead." Asami folded her arms.

Iroh looked at her for a second. "So... You propose that rather than using wood to keep the craft from sinking, we use inflatable rubber. Is that capable of supporting an entire vessel?"

Asami nodded. "It certainly is. And you would require less flotation devices then the amount of lumber you currently carry. Lighter, more compact, durable. You'll be able to move faster and have a better shot at keeping something like your battleships afloat."

Iroh chuckled. "Very appealing. I do rather hope to avoid any of my fleet being at risk from sinking however."

"Never hurts to be prepared."

"Indeed not."

---

Evening had arrived at speed, and the sky was dark by the time Iroh walked her back to her Satomobile. "How was your first visit to the base, Miss Sato?" he asked.

"It was very informative and I enjoyed it immensely." She leant against the door. "I have a better appreciation of how I will direct our development programs in the future. Thank you for the tour... General Iroh." Her head buzzed with ideas and invention.

"Iroh... if you please." Iroh inclined his head and smiled. "My pleasure, Miss Sato."

She stared at him for a moment. "Asami, if you also please," she said staring into his amber eyes. Just like Mako's they were the colour of flame.

"Asami then. When it is convenient, I would wish to talk more about your ideas." He blinked. "We can now if you are able? My work hours ended some time ago, and I know a great coffee shop nearby." He smiled.

"A coffee would be greatly appreciated; it's been a long day." She smiled. Iroh listened to her every word as she talked on the way to the tiny coffee shop. It was down a side-street not far from the base; a little run-down, but clean and the smell of coffee was not as over-powering as other places in the city. Coffee in hand she soon found herself expounding on more and more grandiose plans. Non-lethal restraint methods, flying craft smaller and more maneuverable than airships, the shock glove prototype. Three coffees in and they were discussing United Forces benefits and pay; the conversation more natural and less of a rambling lecture of the insides of her head. She seized on charity work when he mentioned it and suddenly all these half forgotten plans about helping slum children tumbled out of her mouth. And Iroh was with her every step of the way, advising on what the United Forces could and could not conceivably do - at least not without major changes from further up the chain of command. At some point it became more personal; what he could and could not do - depending on his role and schedule. It soon became clear they needed further meetings to discuss ideas and projects. It made sense to arrange them now; ensure they could fit both their schedules around each other to ensure they could accomplish everything.

Asami glanced at her watch surprised by the late hour. "I should really get home to eat," she said. "Unless this place offers food too? I... This is fun. I mean," she said, swallowing, "I kind of like it here."

"It does do food," Iroh said, smiling. "The cook does a mean bowl of noodles."

"Then; would you like to join me for dinner?" Asami asked.

"I would be delighted."

Iroh tried to pay afterward, but Asami insisted she handle it. She was the one who had talked for so long after all and suggested dinner. He gave in after a protracted attempt at chivalry, and with more coffee the conversation turned to each other.

"Why are you in the United Forces?" Asami asked.

"Do I need a reason?" Iroh asked as he sipped his coffee.

"Not really," Asami said. "It's just; you're the prince of the Fire Nation. Shouldn't you be in some lavish job until your mother steps down or something?"

Iroh smiled. "I think that was the expectation. But no one counted on me meeting Bumi."

"Bumi?" Asami blinked. "As in Tenzin's brother?"

"The same. He inspired me. There he was, son of the Avatar, but he was part of this huge organisation that was dedicated to helping everyone in the world. He was looking beyond the tribes to the whole world. Or..." Iroh smiled. "Maybe it was when he told me about carrying these platypus bears across a mountain range. He had so many stories, so many adventures. I think that's what appealed to me most when I was younger. Either way, meeting him got me thinking. I wanted to do what he did. He could have relied on the fact he was Avatar Aang's son, but he made his own way in the world. Just like his sister Kya. And I wanted to do something for myself like they did; not just rely on what my grandfather and mother's statuses conferred on me." He stared down at his coffee for a moment. "But it was Aang's death that really motivated me to go for it." He leant back in his seat. "So after university, I enlisted and worked my way up. Lot of help along the way; lot of people helped get me here."

Asami smiled. "I want something similar. I mean; I could just relax and enjoy everything my father achieved and gave me, but I want to give something back. I want to help the rest of the world too; not just those in Republic City. It's been... Wow. Too long since I last left. That was..." She bit her lip. When she met Korra she completed silently. "I would like to travel. And I'd love adventures. Not sure I'm suited to the kind Bumi had."

Iroh chuckled. "The United Forces has bases all over the world; the Fire Nation is particularly beautiful this time of year. I have some leave coming up if you would like a personal tour?"

Asami smiled. "I'll certainly consider it. But... there's so much I need to get sorted first." She sighed and stood. "Time I got home. I don't want to be late on my second day."

"If you like, I can give you a lift? I mean, if you don't feel safe driving alone."

Asami smirked. "I'll be fine. Don't act like my father; I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself. Do you want a lift though? It's a fair trek back to your base."

Iroh smiled. "Ah, but one of my perks is I'm not consigned to the barracks. My apartment is just around the corner."

"I think you'll be able to get home unharmed then," Asami said. "I'll bid you goodnight though." She paused one hand on the door. "And thank you for the necklace. It really is quite stunning."

"My pleasure... Asami."

---

"Korra!" Asami exclaimed as she opened the door. She kissed her on the cheek as had become their standard greeting. Any other kind of kissing was restricted to behind a locked door. Korra wondered vaguely if there would be any of that this evening. It was always nice, but it seemed somehow unimportant when she had such pressing news hanging over her. She needed to tell Asami. But it seemed a shame to stop her smiling like that.

"Asami," she said with a smile she did not feel and kissed her back. Dinner was already laid out when they reached the dining room, and by long-standing tradition, the staff left them alone.

"It feels like it's been ages since I last saw you," Asami said as she tucked into the meal.

"It has been a while. I think you've been busy," Korra noted.

Asami nodded. "I have. I'm sorry."

Korra shook her head. "It's fine. I've been doing so many airbending drills lately too. We've both been busy." That seemed to cheer Asami up and she smiled. "Do you enjoy it?" Asami lifted one eyebrow as she slurped her noodles. "Your new role?" Korra clarified.

"The job?" Asami nodded. "It's going really well. It's like I've found my purpose in life. Like you've always known yours, but I just found mine and-"

"Asami, my uncle wants me to train in the North," Korra blurted, interrupting her.

Asami blinked slowly. "Oh. Okay." She frowned. "That shouldn't take that long should it?"

Korra fidgeted. "Well, no, but..." She shrugged helplessly. "I hate spiritual training so much, but its not really optional for the Avatar."

"I know. It's fine, you know. If you have to do it, you have to do it."

"Yeah..." Korra glanced away. "But then Tenzin wants me to visit all the air temples."

Asami put her chopsticks down. "That's definitely a longer trip. From what I remember they're always in the corners of maps; that really will be a lot of travelling." She brightened. "Do you need an airship? I can loan you one no problem now if it'd help."

Korra sighed. "Thanks. But I think Tenzin would want us to take Oogi."

Asami was staring at her. "Korra? Are you okay?"

No choice now. "Not... completely," she said.

"What is it?" Asami's voice had gotten softer, a worried edge creeping into her words.

"I..." Korra swallowed. "I don't know if I can keep pro-bending. I don't think I can stay on as part of the Fire Ferrets. I'm allowed to stay on until the end of the championships, but after that... There's no way I can make it back for the next season."

Asami smiled, the expression not completely genuine; she looked worried. "There'll be more seasons after that too."

"I... I know. But what if I never have the time to play? Or have to keep quitting? Ditch the team right before the finals or something. I might need to be out saving the world every day. Everyone will know who I am. I mean, would they even let the Avatar participate in pro-bending?" she asked.

"Well," Asami said. "If she only used one element, I suppose no one could object..."

"Yeah. I suppose so. But; like you said. This is my destiny, this is my purpose. I'm the Avatar, but even then I can't do everything. I have to what's needed." Korra fell silent.

"You'll always be welcome here, Korra," Asami replied, voice just above a whisper.

"Thanks." Korra shook her head. "Sorry. I'm just going to miss Republic City. And all the things I've done here. And the people. I'll miss Bolin and Hasook and Mako. And Tenzin, Pema, Jinora, Ikki, Meelo, Rohan. And Iroh and Zuko and Kya and Bumi. And you. I'll miss you Asami. You... me... It's been nothing like anything else. I'll miss our times together."

Asami sighed and reached out a hand to her; Korra took it, hands squeezing tight. "We'll go out again. Soon as you get back into town. We'll go out again just like old times."

"I'd like that," Korra murmured. A stray thought. She had to ask. "Hey, Asami?"

"Korra?"

"Do... you want to come with me?"

Asami blinked. "Go with you?"

"Yeah. To the North. To all the temples. I mean, I know it might be a bit boring, but we could have fun in between the meditation stuff. And I'd much rather talk to you than Tenzin and..." She smiled. "What do you say?"

Asami bit her lip. "Korra. I... I mean, I'm honored you'd ask me." Korra's heart sank and her hand loosened. "But I can't. At least not yet. I've just taken this job, and there's all these projects I need to get started on, and it'll make the world so much better and..." She trailed off. "I could catch up, maybe?" She smiled. "If you let me know where you are, when things calm down and get back to normal, I can come visit. I could take a holiday. With an airship I could get to you in no time."

"Okay." Korra's voice cracked and she winced. "Okay," she repeated, her voice firmer. "Sounds like the best compromise."

"I really am sorry, Korra," Asami said plaintively. The fingers of her other hand stroked across an exotic necklace. A birthday present? Korra did not remember seeing it amongst the multitude of gifts from the party. "If you'd asked before my father-"

Korra shook her head. "It's fine. It wasn't fair of me to ask."

"Oh, it was. I really don't mind. I just... I can't be on Team Avatar. Not yet anyway," she smiled. "I'll get there, I want to be a member. And I want to help you in any way I can."

"Thanks," Korra said.

Conversation was awkward after that. It seemed somehow difficult to keep their dialogue going and there were long silences between across the dinner table. They retired to the lounge, the door locked as always but the kiss they felt off somehow. But it was not just her; something about it seemed to make Asami uncomfortable too and they wound up checking the other was okay, over and over again. And they tried kissing again and again, always something awkward in their movements. Neither of them seemed to be able to get comfortable on the sofa. Time passed at a glacial pace but was gone before Korra knew it in the same moment and it was time to leave. Her goodnight on the mansion steps was less intense than it had ever been.

"Sorry for... before," Asami said. "Not sure I'm feeling one hundred percent," she added, her hand clutched over her stomach.

Korra mimicked the action. "Yeah. Me too. I'll... I'll see you soon. Goodnight, Asami."

"Goodnight, Korra."

---

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Sorry for one week of delay! Stuff happened and now we're back. Many of your questions is or will be answered by the story itself so this author's notes will be really short. But damn, this is the longest chapter yet with the most number of characters.

Thank you for the reviews! I love seeing new people! It's very motivating for us- especially that Book 2 is the most difficult to write. I know some of you might feel the start is a bit slow- but this is because Book 2 and Book 3 are two parts of a whole so we take our time.

Noreji is Knowledgeseeker66's cameo!

I can say that I'm pleased with the variety responses from the last chapter- I was actually afraid of seeing the same reaction. Sanctum and I have been discussing how the last scene will be received and I must say the reception was interesting. We do not aim for the characters to be predictable and "likeable," we want them to be human, complicated and flawed. We do not write just to use tropes or fit the characters into a mold of an idealized story.

Tbone511

My degree isn't psychology, but I did take a some basic classes back in college.

On warnings:

We can't really give warnings I'm sorry, but I do understand that some things can upset us. I know the feeling quite well and as much as possible I don't like making others feel the same. If it helps - you can skip the portions that make you uncomfortable.

Republic City government in our fic:

Since Tarrlok mentioned elections here's how RC's system goes: world leaders except the queen delegate council members. Unalaq delegated Tarrlok, Izumi has her delegate, the South chieftains choose theirs, and then Aang used to delegate an air acolyte when Tenzin was young. For the Earth Kingdom - the four members of a council would invite a state leader of their choosing. The elections refer to the election for the chairperson, and only council members can be voted as chair. Tarrlok won the recent elections held while Korra was in the South.

Only those who can read and write and 18 years of age can register as voters, but literacy rate in the poor areas of Republic City is quite low.