Future (n.): the time or a period of time following the moment of speaking or writing; time regarded as still to come.

2 weeks later

Air Temple Island, Republic City

2 years, 8 months after the fall of the Red Lotus

Déjà vu. Strange thing, that. Barry Allen had felt it many times over the course of his lifetime, though never more than in the past three years. That, of course, was due to his admittedly infrequent but extremely jarring experiences with time travel. On this particular day, however, it wasn't some supernatural ability or awe-inspiring power that engendered this feeling. No, it was the act of sitting and watching a ceremony on the slopes of Air Temple Island, dressed in his finest clothes with a few familiar faces around. The differences between now and then…well, it would've taken him all day to list them, even with his speed.

At the moment, though, he was focused on the difference currently hanging on his arm, decked out in light blue Water Tribe formal wear. It was only vaguely similar to what she'd been wearing when they'd first met, but she looked no less beautiful for it, mainly because it was still so very…her. Barry leaned over in his seat to press a feather-light kiss behind her right ear, getting in return a small giggle and halfhearted swat at his face—that he dodged, of course. She gently nudged his side with her elbow, a silent insistence on watching the proceedings like a normal person.

In response, he gripped her hand and vibrated their attached appendages just a little, an equally silent but no less understandable plea for forgiveness. His hyperactivity, combined with the lengthy and dull but necessary process of the wedding ceremony—not to mention the close proximity of such a gorgeous woman—formed a mixture that was, to put things mildly, boring him half to death. Korra gave him a sympathetic yet exasperated eye-roll. To his right, his sister just grinned and shook her head, then turned to whisper something in the ear of her father, which he smiled at.

Barry smiled too, just at the sight of the two of them together, and looked behind him to see Henry and Lin sitting side-by-side, his father giving him an approving nod. Lin, meanwhile, was in a hushed conversation with her younger sister that was giving the chief a rather badly suppressed frown and—was she blushing? He'd have to ask her about that later…actually probably not, if he wanted to keep his job, that is. Barry turned forward before she could catch his curious stare, slowly shaking his head and returning his attention to Bolin, who was officiating the wedding.

"Do you, Sir Iknik Blackstone Varrick of the Southern Water Tribe, take the lady Zhu Li Moon to be your lawfully wedded wife? Will you promise to treat her not as your assistant but as your honored and cherished partner?"

Varrick grinned in response and replied enthusiastically. "You're darn tootin' I do!"

"And do you, Zhu Li, take Varrick to be your lawfully wedded husband? Do you promise to care for him in sickness and in health, and—" Bolin stared down at the vows with a frown, "—and also scrub his calluses on a bi-weekly basis," he arched an eyebrow, "which isn't really that much to ask—" Bolin cut off abruptly and fixed Varrick with a disapproving frown. "Okay, I'm not reading all this."

"I do take Varrick," she replied softly, "calluses and all."

The couple-to-be drew close to each other as Bolin gave a little bow.

"You may now," he announced, "…do the thing."

At once, Zhu Li grabbed Varrick and dipped him before locking the man in a loving kiss. They straightened up a second later to thunderous applause from the audience. With a devilish smirk, Asami leaned over to whisper in Barry's ear.

"You guys are next."

Barry's eyes went triple wide in horror and embarrassment as his face flushed a deep and permeating crimson, at which Asami had to visibly restrain laughter. The speedster shot her a brief but particularly vicious glare before re-facing the happy couple and pasting a smile on. He clapped twice as hard and fast as the rest to keep Korra from asking any questions about his currently flushed state, but as it turned out such measures were unnecessary, since she was immediately distracted by the couple walking down the aisle. The entire crowd in attendance got to their feet, the blush slowly but surely losing its stain on Barry's face as the applause continued and followed Varrick and Zhu Li out into the concourse of the island.

One look at an unrepentantly smirking Asami, and he knew this was going to be a very, very long night.

2 hours later

The wedding band, as it turned out, was extremely enthusiastic about its job, and really, what wasn't there to be enthusiastic about? Despite Barry's initial misgivings about his ruthlessly teasing older sister—who thus far hadn't made any other plays—the reception had turned out to be quite the event. Fireworks, lights, music—this thing had it all. Laughter was so common and hard that Barry found his cheeks hurting after the first hour. Not only was this a celebration of two people coming together forever, but of a triumphant United Republic, and indeed the world, against the forces of chaos and tyranny.

True to her word, Korra had been with Kuvira every step of the way with regard to legal proceedings; she even managed to get the former commander a reduced sentence—if two decades rather than life could be considered mercy. Still, Barry couldn't blame the world's leaders for being so harsh. Despite her surrender and remorse, too many people had been harmed and killed by her orders and actions, either directly or indirectly, to just let go. Turning his mind away from those matters, he let a grin split his face at the sight of Ronnie and Caitlin dancing to music played by the Wolfbats.

Of the two, Ronnie was the more enthusiastic, not that that was any sort of surprise, but his wife didn't seem to be enjoying it any less, the way he twirled and dipped her every other movement. Their eyes never left each other. Barry clapped to the music, grinning at them.

Do Korra and I look like that?

If so, he could understand exactly why Asami insisted on teasing him about it…not that it was any less annoying, just that he could understand. Speaking of, his sister was currently shuffling about the party, a glimpse of a vibrant red dress caught every so often as she expertly weaved through the crowd. If he didn't know any better, he'd think she was hiding or avoiding someone. Before Barry realized it, another familiar face had sidled up next to him, and he glanced in the direction of his movement before doing a double take and staring into Hiroshi Sato's knowing smile.

"M-Mr. Sato," he stammered, extending his hand respectfully. "It's good to finally meet you. I mean, yes, we were seated close to each other, but I don't think we've been properly introduced."

Hiroshi just smiled wider and nodded slowly. "Although I believe our first meeting more than makes up for any breaches in etiquette."

Barry cocked his head slightly. "Sorry?"

He chuckled softly. "I may be a little out of the loop, Mr. Allen, but I'm no fool."

For the second time that night, Barry started blushing quite deeply, unable to meet the gaze of the older man.

"Dad, are you tormenting my little brother?"

Barry's eyes snapped to Asami with an arched eyebrow. "Little? You're at least two inches shorter than me."

"And at least three years older."

His arms crossed rather petulantly. "And how is that my fault?"

She smirked. "Because you used to be two years younger than me, not three."

Barry pouted as Hiroshi gave them each a startled look.

"The world…has gotten a great deal stranger in my absence."

Asami laughed and placed a hand on her father's arm. "Dad, you have no idea."

He smiled. "Well, you'll have plenty of time to fill me in now, I suspect."

She smiled back. "Absolutely. Now, I don't know what your plan is at present, but I would very much like a dance."

Hiroshi gave her a small bow. "I would be honored." He turned to Barry. "Excuse us."

He grinned and nodded to them, watching the pair seamlessly glide onto the dance floor.

Hiroshi never stopped smiling throughout the entirety of their first dance, holding his daughter close as the music shifted to a slower note.

"Asami," he said softly.

"Yes, Dad?"

He pulled away a little to look down into her eyes. "I want you to know that what I said, before, at the prison…I meant every word, and I always will."

Asami smiled. "I know, Dad." She laid her head against his shoulder, gently swaying to the music. "So, I know you didn't really have a say in it, but…what do you think of Barry as a stepson?"

Hiroshi snorted a little. "He's a boy. Bright-eyed, enthusiastic, reckless." A grin spread over his features. "To be honest, I see a little of myself in him." He looked down at her. "But a great deal more of you."

She looked a little uncertain. "So…"

He tucked her head into his shoulder and looked off to see the speedster chatting with Detective Mako. "I've noticed you have a tendency to adopt the most unusual people into your life." He shrugged. "I believe it's entirely appropriate." Hiroshi smiled down at her. "After all, my daughter is a hero. It follows that the only ones worthy of her affection would follow her example."

Asami smiled shyly and blushed a little, her arms tightening around Hiroshi's midsection. "I love you, Dad."

"I love you too, Asami."

...

"See ya Mako."

Barry smiled at his best friend's exit and turned back to the dance floor to stare wistfully out at his sister and her father.

"So…"

Barry abruptly turned to Korra, who had just sidled up next to him. "So?"

She stood at his right, hands tucked behind her back as she too looked out onto the dance floor. "A little birdie told me about Asami's little…declaration to you, during the ceremony."

The speedster blinked rapidly, attempting to appear nonplussed and failing miserably. "Uh huh," he said nonchalantly.

Korra smirked at his side and looked out on the dance floor to see Bette standing a little awkwardly next to Cisco, who was whipping his long hair back and forth, along with the rest of his body. She cringed briefly before turning her head slightly toward Barry, eyes never leaving the engineer. "If we do ever get married, will you promise to never dance like that?"

Barry flushed hard, forcing a smile. "That I can promise. The, uh—dancing, I mean, not…getting married."

They exchanged a look, Korra blinking up at him owlishly. Barry just cleared his throat and started to back away.

"Think I saw some cocktails over—"

"Bear," she interrupted.

His eyes snapped to her, jaw tight. "Yeah?"

Her brows furrowed. "Are you okay?"

Barry nodded rapidly. "Yeah, yeah I'm fine." He smiled a little and tilted his head. "Just tired."

Korra frowned, but nodded. "Aren't we all?"

He smiled a little wider, somewhat forcing it, before heading off. "I'll be back."

She gave him an absent grunt in response, turning back toward the dance floor.

The speedster took a deep breath, trying to calm himself, and ended up running across Lin, who was in a rather animated conversation with his father. Barry was just walking past when he caught sight of them, but stopped and walked backward to do a double-take. Was she…smiling? Laughing? He stared openmouthed as both of them laughed, Lin's much more subdued, but still. He took a step or two closer to them, managing to catch snatches of conversation.

"I remember the first car he ever had," Lin said. "Drove it for two days before wrapping it around a tree trying to make up lost time."

Henry chuckled. "He was always faster on his feet anyway."

"Not that that means he's on time. Ever."

He shook his head slowly. "I wonder if it was a teenage thing. He was never late for school—or anything, far as I know—when he was younger."

"I think I can assume why."

Henry's expression went grim, lips pursed tightly as he nodded. They were silent for a moment before he outstretched his right hand. "Chief, always a pleasure."

She took it. "Likewise, Henry."

They parted, Lin reaching out to a passing waiter and taking a skewer of various Water Tribe appetizers. Barry sidled up next to her, watching his father leave with a somewhat dumbstruck expression. He turned to her a second later, managing to catch her attention as she popped an appetizer in her mouth. Chewing it over, she arched a confused eyebrow at him.

"Can I help you?"

Barry stared at her, hands making air quotes. "'Likewise, Henry?' When did this happen?"

Lin's eyes narrowed. "Nothing 'happened,' I'm simply attempting to be less of a…" she frowned, "stiff all the time."

He nodded slowly in disbelief. "Uh huh."

Her eyes rolled. "Oh please, not you too."

"Too? Who else—"

"Su," Lin bit out. "She's been insufferable all night."

Barry crossed his arms. "So that's why you were blushing earlier."

The chief immediately began glaring at him. "First off, I do not blush."

He suppressed his grin rather poorly. "Uh huh."

"And secondly—this conversation is over."

Barry just nodded and let his grin show fully. "Okay." He held back chuckles as she stalked off to another section of the reception. "Enjoy the party," he called.

An irritated growl was her only response.

"Good to see you, Prince Wu."

The royal and his bodyguard turned toward Korra, smiling.

"Or should I say 'King Wu'?" She pointed at him invitingly. "You ready to get back to Ba Sing Se and finally take the throne?"

Wu frowned and rubbed the back of his head. "Yeah... about that." He smiled. "I was actually thinking of stepping down as king and getting rid of the monarchy altogether."

Mako gaped. "Are you joking?"

"For once, I'm not. Now, I know what you're gonna say: I'm being lazy, I'm afraid of responsibility, I'm putting my singing career before my people, but it's none of those things." He smiled. "I really think the Earth Kingdom would be better off if the states were independent and had elected leaders like the United Republic."

They both stood there, a smile spreading over Korra's features as Mako just stared.

"That's actually pretty wise and mature of you," he said.

"I think it's a great idea," said Korra with a smile. "The Earth Kingdom should evolve, and I'll do everything in my power to help you make that happen."

"Looking forward to working with you," the prince replied, "but for now, the dance floor calls!"

Mako and Korra watched as the prince scooted off to the aforementioned area.

A frown creased her features as she turned to Mako. "How's the arm?"

He smiled a little, glancing at the cast over the appendage. "Much better. Barry helped, but after everything else he'd done that day, I figured he'd exerted himself enough."

She just frowned harder. "The words 'thank you' don't feel big enough for what you did, but I honestly don't know what else to say."

"You don't need to say anything." Mako looked down. "I want you to know…" his eyes turned back to her, "I'll follow you into battle no matter how crazy things get." He smiled. "I've got your back. And I always will."

Korra stared at him for a while, then smiled widely.

"And what about me?"

Korra turned toward the newly arrived Barry, decked out in the same tux he'd worn the night of their first date.

Mako smirked. "Yeah, I guess I could find the room for you too."

Barry snorted and arched an eyebrow.

Mako grinned. "Now, I see two perfectly healthy people and a very much open dance floor." His good arm grabbed Korra's shoulder and gently shoved her toward her date. "Go, you guys. You're makin' me feel horrible, like I'm holdin' you back."

Korra smirked and gave Barry a taunting look. "I think he's just scared I'll exhaust him this early in the night."

In response, the speedster's eyes narrowed dangerously, and he reached out to clamp a hand on hers, half-dragging her onto the dance floor. Mako laughed at their backs, Cisco wolf whistling at them as Korra just started to move. A look of surprise bloomed in her eyes when Barry took the lead, and his body started moving fast, not fast enough to be at superspeed, but fast enough to make her actually work to keep up. It wasn't half a minute before she started breathing heavily, and laughing to boot. His technique had improved from their first dance two years ago, but it was a lot like their first true kiss as a couple: inexperienced yet extremely enthusiastic.

When the number ended, Korra was huffing her breaths and Barry was looking quite smug as he escorted her from the dance floor.

She grinned at him. "You've been practicing."

He nodded a little.

A wistful look entered her eyes. "Did you do that…for me?"

Barry's cheeks reddened a little as he looked down and away.

"As a point of fact, he did."

The couple turned toward Asami, who had just parted from her father.

Asami smiled. "Told me it was so he wasn't a wallflower at any more of my company parties, but I always knew."

He gave her a deadpan stare.

Korra laughed and rubbed his arm, leaning her head against his shoulder. "You don't have to be embarrassed about it."

Barry looked down at her.

She smiled. "It's sweet. Because I know you hated dancing."

"I never hated it per se." He shrugged. "Just wasn't my kind of thing."

"Too physical?"

"Too coordinated. I was never too fast on my feet."

Both women snorted rather ungracefully in their attempts to hold back laughter.

Barry just crossed his arms defensively and gave them a deadpan look, eyes eventually wandering over the throng of people before stopping on one face in particular, standing right behind the ladies. His eyes went double-wide, and he grabbed them both, pulling them by the shoulders to stand next to him. The two women whirled around, sharing similar shocked and mildly nervous expressions as they stared into the immaculately-clad form of Leonard Snart, who was holding a mug of something warm and alcoholic.

"What…are you doing here?" Korra half-growled.

"Just wanted to pay my regards to the happy couple." He smirked. "Someone must've lost my invitation in the mail."

"I'm sure," Barry replied sarcastically.

Leonard gave him a venomous smile.

"So," Asami said, "how much do I owe you?"

The thief looked at her questioningly. "For what?"

She crossed her arms, looking rather businesslike despite the red cocktail dress. "For helping to save the city."

Snart smirked and snorted, taking a long drag from his mug. "Consider this one on the house." He held up the mug approvingly. "Good stuff. You pick it?"

Barry rolled his eyes. "You said your peace. Get outta here, Snart."

His eyes rolled. "Fine, fine, I know when I'm not wanted." He stopped mid-step. "It's a little funny to think that I'm attending the wedding of a former convict…" his head turned toward them, "being hailed as a hero."

They exchanged stares for a while.

Snart smiled. "See you around, Barry."

Barry waited until he was out of sight before sighing hard in relief. "Well that was an unwelcome disturbance." He turned to the ladies. "Why was he even here, anyway?"

Korra arched an eyebrow. "You know, considering Varrick's past criminal connections, I wouldn't be surprised if Snart actually was telling the truth about that."

Asami smirked and shook her head, turning around and paling immediately. "Who invited him?"

Barry and Korra both fell utterly silent.

"Barry…"

"What?" he protested. "He's good for you. Seems like everyone can see that except you, 'Sami."

Asami turned to Korra for support, but found none.

"Asami," Korra sighed, "have you told him?"

She arched an eyebrow. "Told him what?"

"That you regret breaking up with him," replied Barry.

Her eyes went super wide. "I—what?! I didn't—"

"'Sami, don't even try to play it off. You skipped out on that drink with Hal, so he called me. I called Korra, she called Mako, one thing led to the next, and before you know it, he's spilling his drunken guts to all of us."

Asami audibly facepalmed, rubbing her forehead into her hand. "Look, guys, it's not what you think." She looked up to see their skeptical faces. "Hal was reckless, immature, a complete child, and—"

"Fun," Korra interrupted. "Trust me, you need some fun in your life."

"And as the whole city saw," Barry added, "he's as serious as he needs to be. He put his life on the line to save yours, Asami. If that's not dedication, I don't know what is."

She sighed hard and turned to look over her shoulder at the pilot, who was having a drink with Mako. "I know."

"Then why not tell him?"

Asami snorted and whipped her head around to face him. "Are you kidding? His head's big enough already. I do that, he'll be insufferable. I'll never hear the end of it."

"Ever considered maybe that's a good thing?" Korra asked.

Asami arched a disbelieving eyebrow.

"I can't believe you're forgetting this. In my experience, the guys who tease and go out of their way to annoy us—without being mean about it—are most often the ones who like us the most."

Asami blinked at her owlishly.

Korra sighed. "And here I thought you were supposed to know more about boys than me."

She snorted and crossed her arms. "I do know more than you."

"Except, it seems, when it comes to Hal. Face it, Asami, you've got a blind spot where he's concerned. I've only seen you two interact for the last two weeks, and it's plain as day how he feels about you—and you for him."

She looked off into the distance.

"Question," said Korra, "have you ever actually let him know how much you appreciate him as a person? Or even as a pilot? You know, in a nice, non-backhanded way?"

Asami's wide eyes and red cheeks were all the answer they needed.

Barry put a hand on her shoulder. "Go tell him, Asami. He might surprise you."

Asami looked up at him, then over at Hal, who was laughing at something Bolin said. And then she exhaled hard and reached over to a nearby waiter, snatching up two flutes of champagne.

"Approach with a drink," said Barry, "great idea."

His notion was proven completely off when she put both glasses to her lips and tilted them toward the sky, both flutes completely drained down her throat within two seconds. Korra and Barry just stared openmouthed as Asami rapidly shook her head to clear out the tingles before letting out a muffled burp.

"If I'm going over there, I am not doing it without a little liquid courage."

"That was a lot more than a little," Barry muttered to Korra.

Asami paid them no heed, half-strutting over to the gaggle of boys clustered around Hal and stopping directly behind the pilot, Mako and Bolin giving her wide-eyed looks. She cleared her throat loudly, causing Hal to jump and whirl toward her with a startled look. Asami arched an eyebrow at him, hands on her hips.

Hal smiled. "Hey, I got the invite. Wasn't my idea, but I thought it'd be bad form to turn it down." He gave her his best winning grin, though she could still detect considerable nerves behind the expression. "Besides, how could I refuse the promise of an open bar?"

Asami nodded slowly, lips pursed. "So…you came here just to get hammered."

Hal's cheeks were almost instantly tinged with red as he shifted uncomfortably. "Well, uh, no. I was checking up on—I mean, hanging out with—" He cleared his throat, glancing around haphazardly before settling his vision on Asami. "Am I still fired?"

She blinked hard, then drew back a little and narrowed her eyes in confusion. "What?"

"W-Well you said, you know, the day of the invasion, that I was fired once I put the plane on the ground, and, well…considering how it got to the ground…and since you haven't called me in for work…"

Asami gaped, immediately feeling her heart sink at the completely crestfallen expression on his face. Without even thinking, she reached out and grabbed his hand in two of hers. "Hal—oh boy…look, when I said all that, I was worried and stressed and terrified for you. Hearing your voice after that plane crashed…" Her grip tightened around his hand. "Hal, what you did that day was amazing. Stealing company property, flying unsanctioned—under any other circumstances, those actions would make you a criminal. Know what they made you then?"

He arched an eyebrow. "Unemployed?"

Asami chuckled softly and laid one hand against his jaw. "A hero."

Hal gaped down at her, eyes wide and blinking hard. His head abruptly turned to Mako. "Dude, pinch me."

"I'll do you one better," said Asami with a devilish smirk.

Before he had time to face her fully, Hal's head was gripped in both her hands and pulled down, her lips pressing against his firmly and getting a startled noise from the back of his throat as all activity around them halted rather abruptly. It took Hal nearly two full seconds to realize the reality of what was happening, and then his arms were around her waist, pulling her body against his and her feet partway off the ground, only her toes touching the stone floor. When they broke apart, it was at least twelve seconds later, and both of them had a glassy look over their eyes. Asami was just a little sharper, and was grinning up at Hal, her arms wrapped around his neck.

"Still think this is a dream?" she asked just softly enough for him to hear.

Hal stared down at her, eyes flickering from her eyes to her lips and back. Then he smiled widely. "Best I've ever had."

Asami smiled wider, eyes crinkling, and brought her forehead to Hal's, gently pressing their noses together.

"Asami?"

Her blood instantly ran cold, eyes going wide as she rapidly pulled away from Hal (but still holding onto him) and turned toward the source of the voice. "Dad—um…" She trailed off nervously, a deep blush staining her cheeks.

Hiroshi arched an amused eyebrow. "Is there something I should know?"

"Korra?"

"Yeah?"

"Are they…blushing?"

"Yeah, I think so."

"That's what I thought." Barry's head shook slowly. "I don't think I've ever seen Hal blush a day in his life. Or nervous at all."

Korra smirked. "Love does strange things to people."

His smile slowly dropped. "Yeah. It does."

She turned to him, frowned briefly, then put on a small smile and rubbed his arm. "Hey."

He turned to face her. "Hm?"

"What do you want to do next? More dancing?" Korra smirked. "I got my second wind now. I guarantee I'll wipe the floor with you this time."

Barry smiled and nodded at the ground. "I'm sure." His smile dropped off as he blinked sluggishly.

Korra frowned again and gently tipped his chin up to look at her. "You all right?"

His lips twitched and pursed as he nodded. "Yeah. Just…a little tired."

Before either of them could say more, a familiar voice came from the side. "Thought I might find you two here."

Barry turned and grinned. "Dad!"

He embraced the older man, the two Allens breaking apart a moment later.

Korra smiled at him warmly. "Henry, always great to see you."

Barry's father grinned. "And you, Korra."

They hugged heartily, Korra lifting him off the ground a few inches in her enthusiasm. Henry laughed and gave a little cough to clear his airways when she set him down.

Barry looked between them. "You two seem…close."

Korra rubbed the back of her head. "Yeah, uh, well…when you…"

"Disappeared," Henry supplied.

"Disappeared, yeah. We both waited together. Cisco and I helped him get settled back in the world, and we sort of…bonded. Until I left, that is." Korra turned to the older man. "I'd been meaning to get back in touch with you, but there was so much going on—" she shrugged, "—just kept slipping my mind."

Henry smiled and waved her off. "It's fine. I understand completely." He looked between them. "You two have been very busy these last couple of months."

Korra smiled ruefully. "No excuse to neglect family."

Henry glanced down and smiled warmly, looking back up at her and nodding once. "Well you'll always be welcome in my home."

Barry nodded in agreement. They were all silent for a moment, then Barry tapped his father's shoulder. "Hey, Dad. Somethin' I gotta talk to you about."

Henry turned to him. "Sure thing, slugger."

Barry glanced at Korra. "In private. Sorry."

Korra smiled and put her hands up in acquiescence. "I gotcha. Think I need some alone time anyway."

The Allens smiled and filed off to speak alone, Korra watching them go with a wistful look in her eyes, then letting her smile drop off as she turned toward the new brightest light in Republic City's night sky. Before she knew it, Korra was standing on the edge of Air Temple Island, absently gazing out into the golden light of the spirit portal, with Naga lying down some eight feet to her left.

"I spoke to President Raiko."

Korra turned her head left to look at Tenzin.

"Tomorrow, he's announcing a plan to expand the city rather than rebuild downtown."

She hummed absently, turning back to the mainland. "I bet Aang never could've imagined there'd be a spirit portal right in the heart of Republic City."

"Korra, you've transformed the world more in a few years than most Avatars did during their lifetimes."

Korra frowned and furrowed her eyebrows. "But I feel like I've only just begun." She looked up at him. "There's so much more I want to learn and do."

Tenzin turned to her and smiled widely. "You don't know how happy I am to hear you so full of hope again."

Korra's shoulder shook with silent laughter. "It's been a bit of a bumpy ride, huh?"

He grinned and folded his hands behind his back. "I've come to realize life is one big 'bumpy' ride."

Korra smiled and looked down. "I know I was in a pretty dark place after I was poisoned—" she glanced up at him, "—but I finally understand why I had to go through all that." She looked forward with a frown. "I needed to understand what true suffering was so I could become more compassionate to others," she shrugged, "even to people like Kuvira."

Tenzin smiled wider and put a hand on her shoulder, the teacher and his student exchanging a long, respectful look.

"Excuse me, Tenzin?"

The pair turned to the center of the island, where Barry was standing some eight feet away.

The speedster jerked a thumb toward the party. "Varrick is looking for you. Something about wanting to borrow a glider suit to fly off the tower?"

Tenzin's eyes went wide in alarm. "That doesn't seem like a good idea!"

Barry and Korra watched as the master airbender ran off like someone lit a fire in his cloak, then turned to each other and erupted into laughter. It was a while before they calmed down, Korra eyeing her boyfriend carefully as he stared blankly into the distance.

"Want to sit with me for a minute?" she asked. "I'm not ready to get back to the party just yet."

He turned his head to smile at her and nod. They both moved toward the steps by a large arch, sitting next to each other, Barry's chin sitting on his entwined fingers.

Korra frowned. "I…don't think I ever really apologized."

Barry glanced at her. "For what?"

She shrugged absently, staring out into the bay. "For being gone all that time. For not coming back sooner."

He smiled and shook his head slowly. "You don't have to apologize for anything." He reached over and took one of her hands in his. "You're here now, and I couldn't be happier."

Korra's lips pursed as she looked at him. "Then why have you felt off all night, like there's some cloud constantly hanging over your head?"

Barry's smile dropped slowly, and he sighed hard as he stared out into the bay, head shaking slowly. "Because I'm exhausted," he exhaled.

Korra chuckled and nodded. "Yeah. I gotcha. These days, who isn't? Like Henry said, it's been a busy couple of months."

Barry just frowned and shook his head harder, another hard, exasperated sigh leaving him as he stood. "No, Korra." He scrubbed a hand across his face and started pacing as she eyed him worriedly. "You don't get it."

Korra pushed herself upright with a grunt, approaching him and holding his arm to keep him steady. "Then explain it to me."

Barry took a deep breath, scrubbing his face with both hands. A sharp breath was exhaled a moment later, and squared his shoulders with her, brows furrowed in concentration. "Okay…okay." He took another deep breath, letting it out slowly. "I know…that the last two years have been anything but easy for you. And by the last two years, I mean…after I left." He rubbed his eyes, tearing up a little. "I know it wasn't easy, I know you were in pain, you suffered. A lot."

She frowned and looked down.

"But you had that time. Time to…come to terms with everything that had happened, time to process the past. Time to rest."

Korra looked up at him with slightly parted lips, realization slowly dawning on her.

Barry shrugged. "I didn't get that." He gulped hard. "I…rescued my father, stopped the man who killed my mother, and saved Republic City." He coughed softly. "And then, I found myself on another Earth, met another Flash, fought a metahuman. Came back to find out I'd lost a year." His lips pursed. "And Korra, the year that I lost…it wasn't just a year with you, or Mako and Lin and my dad. It was a year that I needed, just to…"

"Rest," she supplied in a near-whisper.

Barry nodded slowly, gulping to clear his throat. "So, I came back to a world that had moved on. My friends were gone, you were gone, my dad had moved to another continent, and-and the only people I had with me were Asami and Lin. And they…they had problems of their own." He smiled sardonically. "And then, not two weeks after I got back, one week after I saw you off, metahumans start pouring out of the breach from Earth-One, and I have an entirely new crisis to deal with that takes me nearly six months to stop. And after that—Kuvira happened.

"For the past two years, I have been going non—stop. Haven't had time to slow down, time to breathe." He sighed hard and scrubbed his face again, eyes locking onto Korra intensely. "So, Korra, please understand the gravity and magnitude of what I'm saying when I tell you that I am…exhausted." With this, his entire body sagged partway, a vivid visual representation of his internal condition. Barry's brows furrowed as he turned toward the bay, hands in his pant pockets. "I think I need to stop."

Korra's eyes widened in alarm. "Stop? Stop what, being the Flash?"

He nodded slightly. "Just for a little while. Just until I can catch my breath." He ran a hand through his hair. "I need a vacation. Away from Republic City and metahumans and work and…everything."

She smiled understandingly. "I hear you. I really, really do." Her smiled turned to a smirk as she nudged his side with her elbow. "And I think a few other people would love to share that with you."

Barry smiled ruefully and shook his head. "I know they would, but…for once in my life, I think I need to do something selfish. I need to have this time to myself, without any of them."

Korra's face fell immediately.

He turned to look at her. "You understand?"

"Yeah," she replied quietly, looking down. "I just…was wondering if that applied to me too." She looked up to see Barry blinking down at her.

His eyebrows hiked upward. "You…want to come with me?"

Korra arched a brow. "Is that really so hard to believe?"

"But—but you just got back. Back to Republic City, back to full strength, to being the Avatar…and you want to walk away from all that?"

"Only for a little while. I told you; this isn't a responsibility I'm willing to leave to anyone else—at least, not permanently. But like you, I can't keep going forever. And coming back after almost two years, doing this much this fast—it takes a toll."

He still looked skeptical.

Korra frowned and took his hands in hers. "Barry, you know how I feel about you."

He blinked and stared at her, brows furrowed. "Well, yeah. You told me flat-out that you loved me."

"Yes." She took a deep breath. "I'm just worried that you don't know how much."

Barry blinked and shook his head in confusion. "What do you mean?"

Korra stroked the backs of his hands with her thumbs, looking down at his hands. "When we met almost three years ago, I was in a place of complete darkness. Didn't see any possible way out. That day, when you quite literally swept me off my feet, you started chipping away at the shadows, pulling back the gloom and giving me hope that one day, I'd see the light again. Since then, you've shown me the kind of difference a single person can make, no matter how inadequate they feel, or how many times they've failed. You inspired me to keep going, to keep getting stronger. You helped me become the person I am today: a hero worthy of the title."

Barry smiled shyly.

"But along the way, I think you forgot that. Or, maybe you just never realized how big of a part you played. Barry…the year that you were gone, and the six months after…were some of the hardest of my life. Why? Because you weren't there, and I don't just mean physically. I tried to put you out of my mind, thinking that my memories of you were a distraction, when in reality, you were what helped me focus on what really mattered." She rubbed his forearms distractedly. "So, I hope you'll understand why the prospect of not having you around…isn't an appealing one."

He frowned. "I don't. Not fully. You're recovered, you're healed, at the top of your game. What do you need me here for?"

"I don't—need you here." Her hands rose to his neck, cupping his face. "I need you with me."

Barry stared at her for a moment. "Whatever happened to 'knowing who you are without me'? I mean, wasn't that the whole point of you leaving?"

Korra chuckled mirthlessly. "Yes. Yes it was. But life has a way of showing you just how idiotic you're being through hard knocks. The truth is, I already knew who I was without you. I was gloomy, selfish, consumed by self-pity… The true purpose of that journey, one I didn't understand until much later, was to make me realize who I could be with you." She gulped and looked down. "Barry, when you lost your speed, you told me that you couldn't be the best version of yourself without your powers, without the Flash." Her hands rose to his neck, cupping his face. "All my life, I've felt this piece missing.

"Just…a void, where deep down, I know something is supposed to be." Her oceanic blue eyes searched his lighter ones intently. "That void didn't begin to ache until I met you." She huffed and glanced down. "So, I guess what I'm saying is…I can't be the best version of me…without you."

Barry's lips pursed as he silently chewed her words over. "What about the city? The world?"

Korra snorted a small laugh. "Neither of us was here for just over a year, and the world was fine. It'll be here when we get back." She smiled wryly. "Besides, it's like you said, there has to be some space between crises, right?"

Barry grinned and glanced to the side.

Korra's smile faded, lips pressed into a thin line. "I can't see the future, Bear. I don't know what's coming. I don't know if…there's something we missed, some new threat just over the horizon." She shrugged. "I don't know. It's all fog and shadows to me." Her lips quirked upward. "But, through all that, there's one thing that's visible. One thing that consistently pushes back the darkness in my mind." She looked at him intensely. "You. So, no matter what happens next, no matter how crazy or chaotic things get, I want you by my side, and to stand by yours. Because in every scenario, in every possible situation, you are the one constant in my future." Korra smiled wistfully, eyes clouding over. "Because that's what you are to me, Barry. You are my future."

Barry stared at her for a long time, lips parted, jaw halfway open, eyes filling and darting from one of hers to the other.

Korra's gently trembling lips turned in a heartwarming smile. "So," she said in a near-whisper, "can I come with you?"

Barry's breathing went choppy for a moment as his lips quirked upward and features began shifting haphazardly. And then his lips were on hers, his arms tight around her smaller form as she felt heat spread throughout her entire body, all of it radiating from anywhere he touched her. He kissed her deeply, fervently, and she responded in kind, a low, guttural noise stirring in the back of her throat as she surrendered to him, legs barely keeping her upright. Even if she had collapsed, his grip around her was so tight, she doubted she'd have fallen even an inch.

Seemingly both too soon and too late, his mouth left hers with a quiet smack, both of them shaking slightly in the aftermath and gasping a little for lack of air. Other than their lungs and shoulders, their eyes were the only things moving, constantly flickering from one of their partner's to the other. It was a long time before either of them was coherent enough for speech, and when that happened, it was Korra who broke the silence.

"So…" her lips twitched in a smile, "is that a yes?"

Barry's face broke out in an ear-to-ear grin as he erupted in unrestrained laughter, forehead pressed against hers. "Yes! Yes!"

They both laughed for a good long while, a few brief kisses exchanged somewhere in their elated confusion before they finally calmed down enough to breathe properly. Korra grinned and looped her arms around his shoulders as his went to her waist.

"So," she began expectantly, "where do you want to go?"

Barry stared at her for a moment before raising his eyebrows in surprise. "Wait…you mean, like, right now?"

Korra chuckled. "No time like the present. Besides," she winced, "I dunno about you, but I'm a little partied out."

He looked her over for another couple of seconds, then grinned even wider and looked up in thought. He was quiet for a while, eyes absently darting around before locking on an as-yet unfamiliar source of light.

Barry's head cocked slightly. "Huh."

"What?"

A smirk spread over his lips. "I'm kinda curious to see where that spirit portal goes." His ice-blue eyes turned back to her. "What do you think?"

She drew close and gave him a smoldering look. "I'm thinkin' I want to know how fast you can pack."

He arched an eyebrow at the challenge. "You trust me to pick your clothes?"

"Of course."

Barry grinned and pecked her lips, gently pulling away from her embrace. "Then just give me two minutes."

"And counting."

He was gone a second later, his lightning trail fading instantly as he rounded the edge of Air Temple Island, evidently going for her place first. Korra stood in silence, a stupid, dopey grin plastered on her face as she stared out into the bay, arms crossed.

"You weren't planning on leaving without saying goodbye…"

Korra whipped around to see a tuxed-up Oliver Queen smiling at her, hands stuffed in his pockets.

"…were you?"

She gaped a little. "Oliver. You—how much did you hear?"

He winced. "Enough to know with near-certainty that the answer to my question is yes."

Korra sighed and shrugged, turning back to face the water. "Look…Ollie—"

"Don't get me wrong. I think it's a great idea."

Her head snapped to him. "You do?"

Oliver nodded emphatically. "You've both been running yourselves ragged—Barry because he's been going non-stop, and you because you've been out of the game so long, it's like overworking an unused muscle. Go much further, and you'll atrophy. And it's good that you both realize that. Shows real maturity." He smiled wryly. "And, I would know, because I've never been that mature."

Korra laughed softly, her smile slowly replaced with a concerned expression. "Are you guys gonna be okay while we're away? I mean, I don't know how long Barry plans on being on vacation, but who knows what could happen in that time?"

Oliver's lips pursed as he looked out into the waves. "If good people allow themselves to be ruled by fear, then what point is there in being good?"

Korra frowned in concentration. "Who said that?"

Oliver looked to her and smirked. "Barry Allen." His expression went serious. "You can't let what might happen stop you from doing what's necessary. And in case you hadn't noticed, you two aren't the only guardians around." He smiled. "This world isn't lacking for heroes." His hand placed itself on her shoulder. "Take as long as you need. We'll take care of the rest."

Korra smiled warmly and pulled him into a tight hug. "Thank you, Oliver."

He held her close, gently rubbing her back. "Anytime."

They pulled apart just as the sound of rushing air and dissipating electricity reached them from the waterfront. The pair turned to see Barry grind to a halt, a grin on his face and two bags in his hands.

"All right, hon; two bags packed and ready to—" He stopped short when he saw Oliver. "Heyyy…Oliver. What's up?"

Korra rolled her eyes with a grin. "You can drop it, Bear. He already knows." Her brows furrowed as she gave the archer a look. "Speaking of, how did you know? To look for us here, I mean."

Oliver shifted nervously. "Well…"

Barry's eyes widened. "You knew, didn't you? You knew we'd try something like this."

He shrugged. "Actually, I didn't." He jabbed a thumb behind him. "She did."

The couple turned and looked, eyes widening when Asami stepped out from behind some bushes.

Barry sighed. "Of course."

Asami smirked. "Who else would know you so well?" She shrugged. "Although technically, I didn't know. It was just a…strong suspicion."

"Uh huh," Barry said skeptically.

Asami smiled. "But—in case I was right, I may have also told a few…other people about that suspicion."

Korra and Barry's eyes widened dramatically when from every corner of the island, familiar faces started pouring into the clearing. The Beifongs, Tenzin, Bolin, Mako, Cisco, the Raymonds, Hiroshi, Hal, Tonraq, Henry, and the entirety of Team Arrow joined them at the top of the steps, their small crowd enclosing them in a warm cluster of affection. Ronnie and Caitlin gave their regards to the Avatar and her boyfriend. The Beifongs—mostly Su—gave Lin a teasing look as she glared them back, then approached the couple.

Barry had the sense to look contrite. "Uh, look, Chief—"

"You have the next two months off. I already saw to the arrangements."

He gaped at her. "Excuse me?"

Lin arched an eyebrow. "In the four years you've worked for the RCPD, you've never taken a sick day. Not one." Her arms crossed. "Let's just say that you have more than a bit of paid leave stacked up." Her features softened a little. "I've seen you nearly every day since you've been back, and I know the bags you try to keep hidden under those eyes. Truth is, after the wedding, I was going to order you to take some time off. This little vacation saves me the trouble."

Barry exchanged a surprised look with Korra, then shrugged and turned back to Lin, grinning. He lunged forward and hugged her tightly before she could respond or protest. "I love you," he muttered into her shoulder.

Korra had to restrain laughter at the glare Lin was throwing the rest of her family in response to their ruthlessly teasing looks. As he finally pulled away, Korra was approached by Henry, who hugged her warmly.

"Keep in touch, okay? Even if it's just a letter or phone call every week or so. Knowing my son, you'll have access to both pretty quick no matter where you are."

Korra smiled and nodded. "We will, I promise."

Henry grinned and turned to embrace Barry. Bolin laughed and gave Barry a pat on the back, then encased Korra in a crushing hug before pulling away to return to Opal's side. Tenzin gave his student a warm look and respectful bow, no more needing to be said between them.

Korra's father was next to embrace her. "You've only just gotten back, and you're leaving again. Your mother and I will miss you terribly, as always, but we know you'll be back home in no time." He smiled and glanced at Barry. "Well…almost no time, anyway."

Barry grinned and gave him a nod, shaking his hand firmly. "Give Hunter my regards when you get back home."

Tonraq nodded. "I will."

Korra gave them both a surprised look, the expression on Barry's face telling her he'd explain later.

Asami was next to step forward, smiling shyly with her hands folded in front of her. "I…really don't know what to say." She glanced down. "You guys…have been the best friends someone like me could ever have asked for: family. You've stuck with me through thick and thin, and…when I needed you most, you were there."

Her eyes filled as she drew close to the couple. They each took one of her outstretched hands.

"Two weeks ago, I almost lost every single one of you." Asami turned her head to look at Hal and her father. "Including two of the people who matter to me the most." Her eyes slid closed as she released a shuddering breath. "I don't know that I could've handled losing them both in the same day." Asami opened her eyes and smiled at Barry and Korra. "But thanks to you two, I didn't have to, and that's a debt I can never repay. Thank you."

Barry and Korra smiled, the latter answering first. "You never have to thank us for being there for you."

"Yeah," Barry agreed with a shrug and grin. "What else is family for?"

Asami's smile widened as she released their hands and pulled them both to her. "I love you guys."

"We love you too," they answered in chorus.

They parted moments later, Barry being approached by none other than Oliver Queen as Korra was surrounded by the members of Team Avatar.

"Barry," he said, outstretching his hand.

The speedster shook it with a smile. "Oliver."

Oliver gripped his hand for a few seconds before releasing it.

"You guys gonna be okay while we're gone?"

"Korra asked me the same question."

"And?"

Oliver smirked. "Two years ago, I told you that you could inspire people. A few months after that, you said the same of me." He shrugged. "Turns out we were both right." He smiled wider. "We'll be fine."

Barry grinned. "Glad to hear it."

Oliver was quiet for a while, features turning serious. "You know, apart from John…you're the best man I've ever known. I don't ever want you to forget that."

Barry nodded slowly. "Same goes for you. Don't ever let the light go out, Ollie. No matter what darkness you have to face, don't ever lose hope."

He chuckled and nodded. "I'll…do my best. And when that's not enough, I know I'm not alone anymore."

Barry grinned. "No you aren't. Not ever. Remember: you need me, I'm there—wherever, whenever."

"Same here."

Barry went in for a hug, but Oliver drew back a step, laughing nervously.

"I'm uh, not exactly a hugger, so…"

Barry shrugged and smiled wryly. "Yeah, well, you know, I'm fast enough to hug you without you even knowing, so…might as well."

Oliver chuckled and submitted, holding the other man for a moment or two, then breaking apart with a grin.

"See?" Barry teased. "That wasn't so bad."

The archer laughed some more, then patted Barry's shoulder. "Now, I do believe you and this lady have a trip to start."

"Right," replied Barry as he reached for their bags and slung them over his shoulders.

He straightened up a moment later and stiffened in alarm when he saw John hand Oliver his bow and a quiver of arrows.

"Uh—" Barry began nervously, "what is that for?"

Oliver looked at him innocently. "Starting your vacation off with a bang."

Barry arched a skeptical eyebrow.

Ollie snorted a laugh and grinned. "What, don't you trust me?"

Barry rolled his eyes and shook his head with a grin, then flashed over to Korra, sweeping her off her feet with a surprised gasp as he smiled down at her. "Ready?"

She nodded once, arms looping around his neck as he turned toward the water.

"Run, Barry."

They both glanced back to see Oliver smiling at them.

"Run."

Immediately, Oliver widened his stance and reached back to pull three arrows from his quiver, nocking them all at once and pointing them far up into the sky. He released them as soon as they were fully drawn, and a split-second later, Barry took off. A second after that, the arrows exploded, not with fire or concussion, but in glorious, vibrant hues of blue, green, red, and gold. Barry and Korra looked up at the fireworks, taking a moment to appreciate the bright flashes of color and resounding boom left in their wake. They exchanged a look, both smiling warmly as Barry faced forward and Korra laid her head on his shoulder.

Back on Air Temple Island, a throng of people—heroes—watched the departure of their friends with rapt attention, some drawing closer to others to take their hand or put an arm around their shoulder. Oliver's right arm went around Felicity's waist as she leaned against him affectionately. Together, they all gazed out into the distance, an ever-permeating feeling of joy filling them as a long trail of electricity approached a huge beam of light; watched as those two golden torches slowly became one.

And with a flare of light and power, the Flash and the Avatar sped through the portal, carried into their future on the gilded wings of an angel.

THE END


Musical Inspirations:

The Flash Season 1 - Best Friends Since Childhood: "When we met..."/"You are my future"; Fate of My Dad: Familiar faces/Goodbyes

The Flash vs. Arrow – The Brave and the Bold: start-1:10—Barry and Oliver talk/"What is that for?"/"Don't you trust me?", 1:10-1:17—"Ready?"/"Run, Barry. Run", 1:17-1:22—bow draw/Barry takes off, 1:22-end—fireworks/into the distance/end.

AN: It is finished. Just over a year ago, I began this story, thinking that it was only going to be a fun little one-shot. Instead, I got taken on an incredible journey that grew into my biggest and most popular story to date. Of all the great moments I've had along the way, I have to say that the greatest gift I've been given while writing Angel is all of you. Sharing this story, this world, with all of you has been a boon of such great value, I can't even describe it.

With all of that said, there are a few more things to go over, specifically that big reveal about the chapter titles. So, here's the big secret. When I started, it was only supposed to be a one-shot, but when I expanded into a second chapter, and then a third and so on, I decided to get a little creative. And, since this was my first foray into a story that was significantly focused on romance, I figured I'd make them about Barry and Korra. More specifically, how they see each other in each chapter.

So, with the first chapter, "Angel," it's how Korra sees Barry, and with the second, "Hope," how Barry sees Korra, and so on. Every even-numbered chapter (except for "The Flash vs. Arrow") is titled after Barry's vision of Korra in that chapter, and every odd after Korra's perception of Barry. It's a subtle thing, not all that easy to pick up on, but I didn't want to spoil the surprise, so I left this explanation until the very end.

Apart from that, I don't know that there's much left to talk about. I am planning on adding a short epilogue to this story once I get the final reviews—more of a preview for the first sequel story, really—but it really isn't necessary to complete Angel. I will say that I already have ideas for at least two—if not three—potential sequels for Angel, but given how difficult it was to finish this story, I don't think I'll be getting to those for a good long while.

Anyway, as always, please review this chapter. It's the last one in a very, very long story, so kudos for making it this far. If you can, leave a general impression and review of not only this chapter, but Angel in its entirety. Thanks.

Signing off for the last time in this story, I wish you all a fond farewell.

And as always, oya, vode.

- CDrake

P.S.: Oliver's fireworks show was inspired by his finishing cutscene for single fights in Injustice.