Book 3: Lightning

Chapter 13: The Element of Power

Korra opened her eyes. The prayer room was silent and empty, but despite all her efforts she could not enter the spirit world. Ever since she met Toph. Or perhaps, ever since she succeeded via the swamp? Maybe whatever was happening with Bolin was a factor. She sighed angrily. Frustrating - how could she regain fire when she could not even talk to a spirit? How long did she have until the Earth Empire began moving again?

"Korra!" Tenzin yelled from somewhere below.

"Yeah?" She replied flicking herself onto her feet. Tenzin was hurrying up the stairs. Not not. Not already.

"Bataar Beifong Junior has arrived in Republic City." Her expression must have immediately betrayed her thoughts. "He's come in peace," he added hastily. Korra gaped at him.


People crammed into City Hall like never before; reporters straining and shoving against each other in their effort to secure interviews and clear photos. A huge number of protesters waved banners and placards denouncing the Great Uniter, while a tiny minority seemed to support her. And they were right between her and the council chamber. Really, they should have taken up Tenzin's offer on an air bison ride in. Next time.

Her presence was soon noted as she pushed through the crowd. "Avatar Korra!" a reporter yelled. "Would the Earth Empire be recognized-" She ignored him and kept pushing forwards. Unfortunately Bolin was just as interesting a subject at the moment as she was.

"Mister Bolin! How do you feel about Bataar Beifong's visit?" His hand squeezed hers as she dragged him behind her. Reporters heckled and questioned him; as if they could get a clear answer here about the Queen or Mako's shady past.

"Leave him alone," she barked. A final shove and they were beyond the cordon of guards. "Are you okay?" she asked gently.

"I'm fine," Bolin said smiling.

Korra scowled back the sway they came. "Reporters; I already told them everything and they just want to ask all over again. And they're bothering you." She glanced at him. "You know, if you want to head back to Air Temple Island, they won't bother you there."

"I... I want to be here," Bolin said firmly. "Please, don't worry about me."

"Okay," Korra smiled and touched his cheek. "I just don't want them upsetting you. C'mon." Getting to the council chamber from here was vastly easier, and the full council was already assembled. They rose and bowed as she entered the room - as did Bataar. Korra glared at him. "You."

"Greetings Avatar Korra," Bataar replied, unfazed and bowing. "I assure you my presence and objectives here are purely peaceful."

"But-" Korra said walking towards the council. "You're here, not Kuvira. Where is she?"

Bataar pushed his glasses back up his nose. "As you should be aware, Avatar, the Great Uniter is recovering from an injury."

"Well, that's too bad. When she's ready to take responsibility, she can come back and talk to us then," Korra replied taking her seat.

"I am an emissary - and I have been designated all sufficient authority to conduct these talks. The Great Uniter is our figurehead; I am the Prime Minister of the Earth Empire." His smile widened a little. "I am the true ruler of the Earth Empire."

"Korra-" Tenzin said sharply as she tried to reply. "Bataar, as much as you now accept responsibility, I and many others on this council are concerned with the actions of your... group." He sighed. "Your mother would not approve."

"Councilman Tenzin," Bataar replied, his eyes narrowing. "My family ties are irrelevant to my duties here. Bring them up again and all negotiations will cease. Now, if I may present our constitution?" He unfurled a scroll and talked thrm through the territories the Empire controlled, the leaders and ranks, the legal system, the population census. Everything it seemed. "With the proposed peace agreement, I as Prime Minister pledge that the Earth Empire will make no attempt at entry into any other Earth Empire province. We are aware that our army and the United Forces have had some rather... unfortunate skirmishes."

"But you conquered those lands. Forcibly," Korra said.

"We prefer the term stabilized," he replied.

"And Omashu? What about Bolin's experience?"" She glanced at Bolin who stood nervously to one side of her. "Go on," she said softly.

"The Han province. My family and I were living there. We were peaceful. But you marched in, imprisoned me and all those others. And after... everything was ruined." He was quivering.

Bataar stared at him for a long moment and swallowed. "I do not deny that the Empire is guilty of some crimes-"

"'Some'," Korra echoed in disbelief.

"-but please understand. We are dealing with these issues internally. We have rogue generals and officials who have been found guilty and sentenced because of the incidents you allude to. This is all part of why I came here; we are being open with our crimes and our response to it."

"The prison camps-" Bolin tried.

"Another deplorable action," Bataar said shaking his head. "Like any justice system ours has flaws. We are changing it as we go. And all those horrible camps will shortly be closed down."


Calm. She had to keep calm. Korra paced back and forth for a few moments. No good. "We can't just trust Kuvira like this!" she said. Tenzin sighed. "She's just stalling because she's hurt. Once she's well, she'll be back." How easy would it be to strike first? Like Aang had intended to? But not the same. Ozai had been in a palace. Who knew where Kuvira was?

"The council prefers peace," Tenzin said in a resigned tone. "And both Fire Lord Izumi and your uncle have supported the treaty."

"Won't stop her," Korra retorted.

"I know. And so does the rest of the council. Unfortunately it's not as easy as that. I would ask you please keep this to yourself. The United Forces is not confident they can defend a territory as large as Republic City. Their naval fleet is a force to be reckoned with, but the attack will not come from there." Tenzin met her glare. "They have earthbenders and those machines you call mechatanks. The United Forces is ill-equipped to deal with them. A delay now might give them the time they need to prepare for the future."

"Yeah. And give her time to grow her army." Korra shook her head. "What about the Fire Nation or the Water tribes?"

"Would that it were that simple. They can help, but please do not lose sight of Kuvira's intentions. She believes the land we are on right now should be returned to the Earth Kingdom, if not her Empire. And given the Fire Nation is chiefly responsible for annexing it, she seems to consider our city a colony. Her followers are unlikely to think otherwise; should she fail others will continue to perpetuate that interpretation of history. Fire Lord Zuko once defended this land from King Kuei; the people of the Earth kingdom still remember that. However-" His expression brightened. "If Republic City can prove it is a sovereign nation then the dispute will evaporate."

"I guess that leaves taking care of this place to me, doesn't it?" she asked slowly.

Tenzin smiled. "I have every faith that you can," he replied.


Bolin shuffled his feet again. How much longer would Korra be? The announcement of the peace treaty had caused a great deal of commotion, Tenzin and Korra immediately vanishing out of the hall in the aftermath. What would it be like if they actually signed it? He sighed and leant against the wall.

"Powder bender," a voice growled from nearby. Bolin blinked and glanced into the nearby alley. Bataar and a few Earth Empire soldiers squared off against Lin Beifong and a few metalbenders who were trying to hold her back.

"Aunt Lin," Bataar said coolly. "How nice to see you again."

"Don't give me that," Lin snapped. "You have no right to consider us family any longer. That... that woman turned you against us."

Bataar blinked with an exaggerated motion. "Why, whatever do you mean Chief Beifong? My father and Huan are safe in Zaofu. They can be easily contacted by telephone-"

"And just where is Opal? Where is Su? Where are Wing and Wei?" Bataar's gaze wandered. "Look at me! What happened to them? We know they wound up in those camps of yours."

"Opal? I have no idea. She never went to any of the camps. There was an ongoing search for her when I came here. I wanted to keep her safe," he said frowning.

"What about your brothers!" Bolin snapped. The people in the alley turned to look at him as he advanced. This was wrong. This was a family matter - he had business getting involved. But he could not just stop either. "I saw them both in the camp. They were starving. How can you do that to your own family?"

Bataar straightened his collar and stared back at Bolin without blinking. "The Great Uniter taught me to put what was good for the kingdom above both my family and my own personal desires. But-" He glanced away. Ashamed. No. He believed what he was saying. "Wing and Wei were found guilty of inciting rebellion and as a result were punished. There can be no justice if we were lenient to members of my family simply for their relationship to me." Bataar sighed. "But, what happened to them there was never our intent. The camps were for re-education not torture." His fists clenched. "To think of the cruelty they endured..." Lin snorted. "Sorry to disappoint you Chief Beifong. I am not the mindless, lustful and merciless man people claim I am. I am fighting for a cause. The Great Uniter changed things and I am prepared to bear her sins for the good of the future."

"You think all this is noble?" Bolin quivered. "When you have secret police? I know about the Kenpeitai."

"Because they are so different to the Kyoshi Warriors aren't they?" Bataar replied smoothly. "The ones at the beck and call of a Fire Nation prince."

"Where is Su?" Lin said flatly.

"We are continuing our search-"

"Why pretend?" she interrupted.

"-and I promise to keep her safe," Bataar said firmly. Lin stared into his face for a few moments, wrenched herself away from the hands of her companions and stalked away.

"She's still a killer," Bolin said quietly. "Kuvira. I saw what she did in Ba Sing Se. You still want to follow her knowing that?"

"Your word against hers," Bataar replied. "Why would I believe you more than her? Now, if you excuse me?" He stalked away, flanked by his lackeys. Bolin hurried after Lin.

"Need something kid?" she asked at the top of the alley.

"Are... are you alright?" Bolin asked.

She smiled faintly. "Don't worry about me. Worry about what's coming. But..." Lin sighed. "He was telling the truth. Or at least what he considers to be the truth."


The peace talks lasted for three more days and it seemed like the whole world was talking about nothing else. As much as it seemed deeply wrong, if the council accepted the terms there was little Bolin or anyone else could do. He distracted himself by spending time at one of the Sato orphanages, just spending time with the kids, keep them from worrying too much. Each day made him feel a little better, but at the same time absolutely exhausted.

The news broke just as he boarded the boat back to Air Temple island; the council had signed the treaty. Bolin hurried to find Korra as soon as he reached the pagoda. She was glaring at the city and did not seem happy. "Hi."

"Hi," she said quietly still staring at the city as if willing it to catch fire.

"I heard the news... Is it... Is it too late to back out?" Bolin asked.

"They voted for peace," Korra said, her voice tight. "I guess it was the sensible thing to do. I just don't like how Kuvira's doing this. She has to be planning something. I suppose we can be thankful the war will stop." Her fist clenched tight.

"Korra?" he asked.

"Bataar..." Korra trailed off, and finally turned to him. "He said you could personally go back to the Earth Empire. Check on it personally and tell the world how it looked." Bolin shivered. Could he even contemplate trusting Bataar? "I told him no," she said before he could speak. "I told him he had no right to ask you to do that."

"I would have said the same thing," he said quietly. She had been right, but somehow her making the decision for him was uncomfortable.

"And like I would let you go back there. I'll make sure you never do," Korra scoffed.

"What if I need to help people?" he snapped.

"Then I would need to go with you," she replied frowning.

"And if I need to go right now? If there's no time to wait?"

"Has something happened?" Korra shook her head. "If you need to go now, I'll get ready and-"

"You're still hurt," Bolin interjected. "You need to heal before you can face her. You shouldn't worry about me-"

"What?" Korra was blinking at him and looking angry. "You think I'm weak now? I need to heal?" she said sarcastically. "I can't heal this-" She grabbed her right shoulder. "Kuvira took it and it's never coming back. Thank you for the concern, but I've had enough. If it's not dad fussing over me it's mom. And if it's not her, well, it looks like you've taken up the job. I dealt with what happened. The rest of you do too."

"This isn't about your arm!" Bolin struggled to get a grip on his voice, unable to stop what he was saying. "You can't even firebend yet-" He clawed his hair in frustration. "Fine. You know about Avatar stuff, but-" How could he even begin to talk about this? Get her to stop what she was doing and treating him like-"

"It's not like I'm not trying! I meditate all day and nothing!" She glared at him. "So sorry for not figuring it out faster. Hey, maybe you can help me? Wait, no, you don't know anything about fire!"

"Oh except for living with a fire bender most of my life!" he snapped. Mako. Bolin closed his eyes and tried to calm his thoughts.

"Bolin. Oh, Bolin, I-"

"It's fine," he said bitterly. "Do it your way. Really. I don't know the first thing about fire bending. Not really."

"Bolin-" Korra said in a softer voice.

"Good luck," he said and ran from the room. His eyes were streaming with tears as he curled on his bed. She kept saying how much she missed Mako, but she seemed to have already forgotten him. How could she not understand what he wanted to do?


Pema caught Korra as she headed for her room. She had been considering trying to talk to Bolin, but- Hopefully he would have calmed down by tomorrow. "Asami's on the phone - she wants to ask you something." She held the phone out.

Korra blinked. "Oh, okay." She took the phone and Pema walked away. "Hi Asami. You still okay?"

"Hiya. I'm fine," Asami said. She sounded more upbeat every time Korra talked to her. And busier and busier; she had barely seen her friend since they helped bail her out. "I was wondering if you had time for something? Might take a little while, but..."

Interesting. "Kind of - but I can't get too distracted. I have to get my firebending back and I know everything's supposedly fine, but I'm just kind of waiting on Kuvira doing something-"

"Ah, well, that's why I called you," Asami interrupted. "Future Industries has been working on a new flying vehicle the last few weeks. We've done a load of short-range tests, but now I want to try going for distance. And... I was thinking of heading for the Fire Nation and in the interest of safety I wanted to take an airbender, and well, I know a few airbenders, but-"

"Yes I'll come," Korra said quickly. "Sorry. That was the question right?"

"Well, I was actually thinking that it might be Tenzin's scene given he has a lot of experience on Appa- Of course I'm asking you!" Asami interrupted as Korra made a token effort at protest. She laughed.

Korra grinned. "I can ask him if you like..."

"No, no," Asami said quickly. "I want to spend time with you! I've been far too busy, and you've just said you haven't got your firbending back and where better to try than the homeland?"

"Makes sense," Korra said. "Kind of glad I never thought to try before. Um. Is there the possibility of a request?"

"I'll see what I can do," Asami replied.

"Can we stop by the Sun Warrior's island?" Korra did not pause long enough

"Of course. Keep this quiet though," Asami said. "Don't want our former 'friend' to hear about it if we can help it."

"Oh of course," Korra said looking around nervously. Silly. Kuvira and Bataar were not sneaking into the house to spy on her. "When are you leaving?" she asked.

"Soon as you're ready really," Asami said. "I've got a route planned out..." She trailed off and rustled something. "Huh. We go right over the Sun Warrior Island it turns out. But... can't really stop there, so we'll have to past and then head back to it."

"How long are we talking?" Korra asked.

"A few days to fly there, a couple of days in the Fire Nation maybe - just enough time to rest, get you to the island, get back and then head back here. If it all goes to plan we'll be back in Republic City the week after."

"I-" Korra blinked. "I'm ready now. Let's go tomorrow. If that's okay?"

"Sure!" Asami sounded excited. "Sooner the better - I have been itching to try this out."

"Then let's do it! Wait - where do I meet you?" Korra asked.

"The United Forces base. You can get there easy enough right- Oh." She sounded worried.

"Something wrong?"

"Naga can't come though. Sorry," Asami said.

"Aw," Korra said even as she grinned. "Next time?"

"Maybe. Need to design a version capable of taking her too. Of course when I do we'll have to test this all over again... Well, as long as this time doesn't put you off."

"Are you kidding?" Korra asked. "I love flying. This will be great."

"If it's anything like-" Asami cut herself off.

"Asami?"

"Tell you about that one another time. But I... I like flying too," she said. "I want to get start fairly early so, meet at nine?"

"Sure!" Korra said. "I'll get my things together and see you tomorrow. And I should probably head for bed soon. So... goodnight and sweet dreams."

"Goodnight and sweet dreams," to you too, Asami replied. Korra grinned as she replaced the receiver. A trip to the Fire Nation - and surely the best opportunity to regain her bending. Every other element she managed to recover seemed to manifest as a result of spending time in their respective territory. The situation had made it difficult, but it seemed so futile to have even tried to shortcut this process by meditating in Republic City."


Asami double-checked the fuel lines, the maps, her co-ordinates, the compass and emergency supplies three times before the sound of boots on the tarmac heralded Korra's arrival. She waved to Asami. "Morning!" Korra called.

"Morning," Asami replied with as she smiled and waved back. "You know," she added as Korra stood beside her. "You really are going to give Iroh a headache if you insist on just wandering around the base like that. You're supposed to come in through the front entrance with an escort. At least that's the idea for other visitors."

"Yeah, but that takes so long," Korra said her attention fixed on the vehicle. She reached out a tentative hand to stroke the craft's hull. "This is quite some contraption. I thought it would look more like a Satomobile."

"Wrong shape for what it has to do," Asami replied. "And thank you; I'm pretty proud that it works at all. I had the idea last year, but..." She grimaced and Korra glanced at her. Asami shook her head. "Glad I got try it out." She passed Korra a flying helmet. "For safety," she said at Korra's bemused expression.

"Aye-aye, captain!" Korra said as she sloppily saluted her and awkwardly pulled the helmet on with one hand. Asami was about to say something but before she could Korra had managed to get it over her hair and buckled.

"And if you would like to take your seat," Asami said with a flourish towards one of the two openings on the top of the vehicle.

"What do you call this thing anyway?" Korra asked as she ignored the ladder and instead flipped herself into the seat with her airbending.

"Biplane," Asami said as she scrambled up the ladder. "Well. A biplane. Didn't think about a name for it. It's very different to a ship..." She trailed off as she ran through the controls and checked everything still worked. A ground tech unhooked the ladder from the side of the plane and scurried away with it. "Like I said, everything should be fine, but just in case..."

"I'm more than ready to catch us." Korra nodded. "Don't worry. I can get us down safely."

Asami shot a last smile over her shoulder and settled down for the remainder of pre-flight checks. She gave a thumbs up to the waiting technician who took a deep breath and grabbed hold of the propeller blade. He shoved it down as Asami started the engine; it caught and the whole frame of the biplane began vibrating. This time though they would be going higher than a hundred meters and relying on the fuel lasting a lot longer than a few minutes. Iroh assured her an ample supply of fuel would be waiting for them in the Fire Nation. If not, well, getting back would be somewhat complicated - or at least a lot slower. And any problems and she was going to end up disappointing Korra. No. This would work. "Ready?" she called over her shoulder.

Korra held her thumb up in mimicry. "Ready!" She yelled over the roar of the propeller. Asami smiled at her again and signaled to the remaining ground crew. They pulled the chucks from beneath the biplane's wheels and after they ran clear Asami pushed the controls. The plane rumbled forward and began picking up speed, the United Forces base around them beginning to blur. Just like the other tests. "Wow," Korra said behind her.

"You haven't seen anything yet. Ready?" Asami called above the roar of the engine.

"Go, go, go!" Korra yelled.

Asami tugged back on the controls and with a lurch the rumbling of the wheels halted. Her stomach seemed to float for a moment but the sensation passed in a moment. They were flying. She glanced to the side, the buildings of Republic City already further below her than she expected, the air rushing past her in a torrent. Just like on Druk's back, but unlike the dragon, this plane was entirely under her control. She checked the fuel gauge, the engine pressure, the compass; all good and working. "You okay?"

"Asami, this is... awesome!" Korra shouted back. Asami chanced a look back. Korra was leaning right over the side of the plane, staring down at the landscape. "Nothing like being in an airship. I can see Air temple island! And the pro-bending arena. And even your house!"

The plane flew higher and the city grew smaller and smaller below them. They were now well above airship height; Asami slowly leveled out the plane and stared around in wonder. The judder and rattle of the plane around them was of slight concern but it did not get any worse. The wind was freezing cold as it blasted against her face. Might be an idea to grab some thicker clothes in future. And they really should if it was possible to get any when they refueled. "Still okay?" she called back, trying to repress the shivers that had started wracking her.

"I'm good." Korra glanced around. "Have we slowed down?" she asked.

Asami glanced at the instruments. Same speed, same-heading. "No?"

"Huh," Korra said. "Just looks like it then."

"Must be the height. We're going a lot faster than cars or airships right now." Her teeth were clicking together despite her best efforts. "If we keep on improving eventually we'll be faster than even the air bison."

"You cold?" Korra asked.

"A little," Asami admitted taking a deep breath and remembering the warm sands of Ember Island. "I'll be okay." Something seemed to wash over her and the cold just faded awat. "Uh?"

"Airbender trick," Korra replied. "I can keep both of us warm like this."

The first half an hour of extended flight soon became an hour and Asami declared the test an unparalleled success. They were flying higher higher, faster and for longer than anyone else had managed with mechanical flight. Another hour and they Sebu Island was visible far below them and the fuel gauge indicated they still had quarter of a tank left. Not bad; the estimated were a little conservative - but that was for the best. Asami requested two thick jackets while they waited for the technicians to complete refueling and there was sufficiently little wear to the craft to allow them to set off straight away. Another two hours and they touched down at the next Fire Nation base along the archipelago. Asami decided to call it a day when they reached Okinawa; flying at night felt a daunting prospect at present. Even if Druk had; she could trust the dragon to see well enough to not run into problems. Too many possible problems with just herself responsible - even with Korra as back-up.

Asami stared at the projected route for the rest of the trip as Korra dozed on the bunk below her. The red line of their route was a frustrating distance from the tiny blob of land labelled Ember Island. Not that it would a sensible plan. There was no base and far, far too many witnesses. But it would have been nice to go back and show Korra around the island. Maybe see if Kurako was still around - and still single. "Asami, Asami," she murmured. "Behave." She leant slightly over the bed and stared at the dozing Avatar. She was flat on her back with her mouth gaping open. Asami smiled and rolled onto her back. This was good. She had needed this. And from what Korra had said; so did she.

A certain amount of anxiety made Asami delay take-off the next morning in favor of a more thorough engine check and a few tweaks to the plane's operation. They found nothing of concern and the tweaks were minor. Still, it made her feel more comfortable at making the next island hop. Korra amused herself by sparring with the various generals and commanders in the base. Each one of her fights drew a large crowd - more or less equally divided by support for their comrade and support for Korra. She beat them all, all of them thrilled just to have a chance to say they had once fought her - and a commemorative photograph as well. Korra was having too much fun to disrupt, so Asami delayed take-off until after after lunch - and anyway, a good meal seemed entirely sensible before heading out - not much room for food on the plane. Two more stops at a Fire Nation base and they would be two thirds of the way there.

"Avatar Korra, I present: the Sun Warrior Island," Asami called back an hour after they set off.

"Is that it...?" Korra asked staring past her to the spot of land just visible ahead of them.

"Yep," Asami replied, checking the compass. Right on time. A bank of cloud rushed beneath them. "Going to have to get below this first." She was about to point them lower when Korra spoke.

"Asami... We're not alone up here," she said.

"Huh?"

Asami glanced back; Korra was staring straight up. "Up." She followed her gaze and her mouth fell open.

Swarms of dragons swooped in the air, slowly descending in waves. They looked a lot like Druk, but in a rainbow variety of colours and hues. And sizes; numerous smaller dragons weaved in between the larger. "Adults..." Asami murmured., "These are dragon families," she added. "Zuko told me all about them-" The wind shifted and Asami blinked in fright as a massive red wing seemed to come close to brushing them as the dragon sank level with them. The creature settled into a glide beside them, an enormous golden eye staring right at her. A rush of wind accompanied a similar blue wing on the other side of them. Asami gripped the controls tight as she compensated for the new air currents.

"Is that..." Korra asked.

"Ran and Shaw?" Asami completed the thought staring from the blue dragon on their left to the red on their right..

"This is..." she trailed off

"I know," Asami breathed. The only way this could be more spectacular would be seeing it from the back of a dragon. She had not even stopped to consider how the creatures might react to a noisy vehicle in the air beside them; the dragons at least seemed unfazed. They flew alongside them for a few minutes and then with a rippling flap of their wings they accelerated away. The resulting back draft made the controls wrench in Asami's hands and she desperately tried to keep them centred. Another buffet from the air and there was a loud crack came from somewhere behind her. It was soon echoed by a succession of others from the front of the plane. "Uh-oh," Asami muttered as the plane started rolling to the right. She threw the controls to the left to no discernible effect. "We're in trouble," she yelled as the engine began sputtering and the thick smell of the fuel washed over her. The biplane's nose tipped forward and the Sun Warrior island loomed huge below them.

"Leave this to me," Korra shifted behind her and the juddering craft began to calm. "Not as easy as I thought," she added through gritted teeth, the craft still plummeting towards the island.

"I'll try and keep us level," Asami said, tugging the controls into position in desperation. No effect. The propeller span to a halt in front of them and the plane lurched again.

"Still got us," Korra muttered. Asami believed her, but the trees seemed to be rushing rushed up towards them faster than she could even think.


"You need any help?" Bolin asked when he found Iroh in the garage beside his apartment block. "I mean, hi, is it okay for me to be here...?"

Iroh looked up from his book open on the bonnet of a Satomobile. "Oh, hi Bolin. Of course, any time. And I think I'll be okay." He frowned at the page he had open. "I can have to be able figure this out," he muttered as he traced his fingers over the page, leave a trail of black. He sighed. "So. What brings you here?" he added as he fumbled with a spanner.

"I was wondering... Has there been any word on my family?" he asked.

"Ah, yes, my apologies. I was going to come by and let you know tomorrow - only heard myself an hour ago. How does that have two wrong end- They all made it to the Southern Air Temple," he said, all his attention on the exposed internals of his Satomobile as Bolin sagged in relief. "I've asked Yue to start working on their applications for citizenship - I assumed they would want to? At least?" He glanced around and Bolin nodded. "That said, not to late to get them applied to the Fire Nation - if they'd like it more there."

"I think they'd prefer it here. Close enough to home. I think the Fire Nation might be too much future shock." He frowned. "And I think they still want to go back. When this is over..."

Iroh grinned. "I made the right choice then-" The spanner tumbled out of his hand and clattered loudly on the concrete floor. He sighed and retrieve it only to fumble the implement all over again.

"Let me," Bolin said as he plucked it from the floor before Iroh could get to it. "I don't know that much about Satomobiles really, but I know how to take them apart easy enough. The other way should just be the reverse." He caught Iroh's questioning gaze. "Satomobile parts and entire cars were always the most profitable things you could bring in. At least that's what Mako always said." He adjusted the spanner and glanced at the manual. Iroh backed off a little, just watching appreciatively as he worked. "There we go," Bolin said after a few moments, the parts in order and tightened as far as he could manage. "That should do it." He leant through the window and turned the key in the ignition; the engine rumbled into life.

"Excellent work," Iroh said shaking his head. "Not sure I could actually have gotten it working. Just wanted to do something with my hands. You know?"

"Yeah," Bolin said flexing his right hand again. It no longer felt stiff or useless, but it was hard to shake the memory - or the worry. "Don't want to get out of practice. Though, I would have expected you to ask if Asami could help with this?"

Iroh smiled. "Well, normally. Her invention rather takes precedence. Ah - I bet she swore Korra to secrecy..." he trailed off as Bolin frowned. "You don't know what I'm talking about do you?" Bolin shook his head. "She's off visiting the Fire Nation with her new invention and not due back to next week. She left with Korra. This morning." Iroh frowned. "Didn't she tell you she was going?"

"No- Wait, Korra is with her?" Bolin asked, his heart sinking.

"Yes... But don't worry, it's not an actual vacation." Iroh clapped Bolin on the shoulder. "Asami wanted to test her new idea for aircraft, and figured the Fire Nation was the best place to head to. Korra is there for safety and, well, it might help her with the last problem? Are you okay?" he asked after a pause. He sounded somehow distant and Bolin nodded glumly, avoiding Iroh's gaze. "Bolin?" He looked up to see Iroh staring at him concerned. "Don't forget, I'm your friend. And I'm here if you want to talk to anyone."

"I know," Bolin said and looked away again.

Iroh was silent for a moment. "Well. If you have no other plans, would you like to stay for dinner?"


Korra blinked awake, something thick wrapped around her legs and torso. Had Kuvira captured her? And suspended her out of reach from the ground. Hah; as if that would stop her - she had two whole other elements. She opened her eyes to see a tree canopy with a ragged hole almost right above her. Korra stared around. If the Great Uniter had captured her, she had apparently picked up an odd habit of putting her prisoners in trees. Korra shuddered at connected memory; the Equalists had tried that one. An unpleasant fate - though not one she shared. Korra stared at the vines wrapped around her. "Asami?" she called.

"Korra!" a response came from below her. "You're okay!" Korra thrashed around a little and rolled over awkwardly. A few of the vines snapped and she dropped slightly closer to the ground. The tangled hulk of the biplane hung suspended between two trees below her. Asami was gingerly standing up in the pilot seat. "At least it looked like both of us made it in one piece."

"Give me a minute and I'll try and get us down," Korra said tugging at the vine around her leg. A vine snapped below her and" Asami's grin froze as the biplane lurched beneath her. Another snap and the biplane rolled; she tumbled straight out of the craft and into a pool of mud below. "Asami!" Korra shouted as Asami lay still. She thrashed in the vines again, managing to break a few more. A worried glance below her gave her pause; a humanoid shape was stirring awkwardly in the mud. "Asami?" she asked as the figure sat upright.

"I'm okay," she replied in a flat voice. "Less pleased about surviving now," she added in a tone somewhat like Eska's. "Yuck."

Korra struggled again, but the vines still held her. This was not helping her get free. She concentrated for a moment, flicked her arm and lifted herself up airbending. Combine that with waterbending and she painstakingly uncurled the vines from around her body. Korra scrambled down the tree as Asami scraped awkwardly at the mud coating her head to toe. "Want a hand?"

"Please," Asami said stiffly as she tried to flick the mud from her hands.

"Just hold still then..." Korra murmured. She reached out with water and earthbending, the mud was thick and sticking. This was not as easy as it should have been. Korra wrenched at the mud with a bit too much force. The rip was startlingly loud in the stillness as Asami's shirt tore in half. Korra blinked, following the drifting pieces of fabric as they fell to the ground.

"Korra..." Asami said in frustration. Korra blinked and looked up; her gaze stopping at Asami's chest and the black bra she wore. "Korra?" Asami tried again.

"Sorry," she said hurriedly as she scratched her head and tried to keep her eyes on Asami's face. "You'd think I'd learn after doing that to Mako."

That got a smile. "If I did not know any better, I would think this was some secretive method to get your partners undressed." Asami sighed distantly. "My eyes are up here, Korra."

Korra gulped and glanced up again. "Sorry, it's... Sorry."

Asami grinned. "It's okay. I'm teasing you!" Another snap above them and their belongings rained down around them. "We should probably get out from under the biplane."

"Yeah. And- Aw. More mud," Korra sighed as she crouched to grab at their belongings. "Okay, we should probably wash all this. Unless you want me to try again?"

"Washing sounds the best idea," Asami said hurriedly. "If you tear the tent in half too..." She shook her head as the two of them scooped their meager supplies out of the mud and scraped as much mud off as possible. "I really want a bath now," she added

"If we can get to the beach or if there's a stream nearby..." Korra said.

Asami nodded as she unfolded the map and studied the compass. Sun Warrior Island was at least not near the edge and had escaped the mud. "Okay. If I have this right we're at worst a few hours from the Sun Warrior shrine. But not sure we can make it before night-fall. Guess we'll need to make camp out here - at least for one night." She pointed off to the east. "According to this there's a waterfall that way. Should give us somewhere to wash up if nothing else."

"Better get moving while it's still light," Korra said.

"First this," Asami said digging a spray bottle out of her bag. She spritzed herself and held it out to Korra. "Mosquito spray. Now I just need a new top..."

Korra took the bottle as she nodded. "Yeah, that's a good look for you without it, but it'll probably get cold later."

"A good look?" Asami asked raising an eyebrow. "Why Miss Avatar, are you admiring me wearing less than normal?"

She flushed. "Yeah. I mean, no, I mean- I'm sure I've seen people on the beach wearing less..." Korra glanced away deliberately.

"A bit fancier than swimwear... And I don't let just anyone see me wearing this," Asami said and glanced around. "Not that anyone else is here so..." Her voice sounded a little different when she spoke next. "Guess I can do without the top for now. At least as long as you can do your airbender trick if it does get cold."

"I can," Korra said a little too quickly.

"Okay then," Asami replied with a smile, hefting her bag onto her shoulder. "And as long as I don't distract you too badly, guess I stick with this for now." She started off and stumbled over a tree root a moment later. "Ow."

"You okay?" Korra asked. "And what was that about you distracting me?"

"Just a test." Asami said as scrambled to her feet. "I'm fine. Let's try that again."

The air felt close; the canopy above blocked most of the sunlight, but the air was humid and felt thick in her throat. Strange noises came from all around them. Animals or spirits? Korra glanced around and saw nothing obvious. "So... You plan on making more of those biplanes?" she asked.

"Yep," Asami said as she stepped carefully over another root. "Hopefully they'll be prove suitable for the city's defences. Airships get shot down easily and air bisons are picky about who flies them and there's not many of them - and really do we want to force them into fighting for us?" Asami shook her head. "I reckon the planes will be something better. Too fast to easily shoot down; and if so, that ought to give us air superiority if, well, when Kuvira does make her move. But that means I need to train more people how to operate them."

"Sounds like you have it all planned out," Korra said.

"I wish!" Asami laughed. "I'm sort of making this up as I go. But it seems to be working so far." She lapsed into silence.

"I, er, sorry again about your shirt," Korra said a moment later. "It was a honest mistake. I wasn't just trying to get you undressed..."

"It's fine," Asami replied with a new grin. "I know you were just trying to help. And it's not like you haven't seen me in less."


"Here you go," Iroh said as he set the laden plate down in front of Bolin. As much as his stomach felt empty, Yue's words after the trial still echoed in his head.

"I'm not that hungry..." he tried. Iroh was watching him carefully and sighed.

"She told you didn't she?" Bolin reluctantly nodded. "Just because I have no savings does not mean I'm starving. Eat! I'll be fine," he grinned. "So you and Korra. I'm sure after this disagreement is over you'll be back to a wonderful couple together."

"We're not a couple," Bolin said hurriedly as he swallowed a mouthful.

Iroh frowned at him. "I was sure you two were a couple," he said as he sipped at his wine. "You've been practically inseparable since you got back to the city?"

"No, not a couple," Bolin shook his head. "We... we kissed a few times-" Iroh grinned and he hurried on. "But it's not like we've started courting or, um, dating?" His friend nodded and Bolin shook himself. "I haven't confessed how I feel to her or anything and she hasn't confessed anything to me or..." He sighed. "So much had happened this last year..." He glanced at Iroh. "You really thought we were a couple?"

"Well, you looked like it to me. I wasn't sure, but... Is everything okay between you?" Bolin stayed quiet. "I get the impression there's a reason she didn't tell you she was going to head off to the Fire Nation - and that even as good a friend as Asami wouldn't be enough for her to not tell you at all."

"We had a fight," Bolin said and briefly summarized the painful argument.

"Ah," Iroh winced.

"And now I don't know what to do," Bolin said sighing. "We've never argued like that before! Or even really argued. Did I do something wrong? Have I screwed everything up? I... I'm just not sure how I can talk to her next time."

"I suspect this is just a case of miscommunication," Iroh said softly. "Just give it a little while."

"Do you two fight?" Iroh raised an eyebrow.

"'Two'?" he echoed.

"You and Asami?" Bolin clarified.

"Ah." Iroh sighed. "Just as you and Korra are not a couple, neither are Asami and I. Though I suspect the sole difference is that as far as I am aware neither Asami nor I have aspirations to wind up like that. You certainly wish to change the status quo - and I think Korra would not object." Iroh drank his wine. "But to answer the question, yes, we do disagree on a variety of things, but it's... different."

Wait. Not a couple? The break up with Korra, the rose at Asami's birthday, Asami hiding out in Iroh's apartment. Okay, so they had separate rooms, but that did not actually mean Asami slept in her own bed, Oh, and the marriage certificate just before the verdict in Asami's trial; that could not have come out of nowhere. Could it? "But... The two of you?"

"We seem a little unconventional," Iroh admitted. "Friendships can have a variety of benefits." His smile twitched and Bolin felt his eyes widen. Oh. His cheeks flushed. A decidedly mature relationship. "But, if it helps to assure you, my past relationships have had their share of arguments. Eventually they caused the relationship to end, but just one argument is no reason to think things are over."

Bolin shook himself. "What happened?"

Iroh looked sheepish. "Complicated and quite tedious most of the times. The last time we did break up right after a row." Bolin tensed. "Don't be discouraged though! Everyone is different. I have every faith that you can and Korra can work through this."

"I don't know. I don't even know where to start. We did fight, but there's other stuff. And I just think that might get in the way and it'll push us apart." Bolin stared at the floor.

Iroh stood up stiffly. "I can see this is going to take us a while. Sake?" Bolin nodded warily. Iroh poured two glasses from his drinks cabinet and handed one to Bolin. "I think I need to hear this from the start..."

Bolin related it all, from the very first meeting with Korra to the argument two night's before. "When I was in Ba Sing Se I promised myself I would tell Korra I loved her the moment I saw her again. But when the time came, I was just so happy to see her and then we kissed and it was..." he trailed off wistfully. "I thought I didn't have to actually come out and say it. But now I think I should have. Now I'm just confused."

"Confused?" Iroh asked.

"I used to dream about her protecting me. She would swoop in and carry me off in her arms - I was the damsel and she was the prince." His face felt hot again. Iroh did not laugh and gestured for him to continue. "But now she really does want to protect me and doesn't want me to get hurt and... I don't like how that feels. I need to stand up on my own and not hide behind her. But it's Korra. It's what I always thought about so why do I feel like this? Were my feelings for her because I was sad and desperate? And then, maybe she's only ever thought of me as a little brother to look after. You know, just like Mako. So that kiss; maybe it was because she felt sorry for me. Does that make sense?"

"It does... And I can see what you're getting at." Iroh sighed. "Complicated indeed."

"And then that argument; we fought! We never fight and maybe that means we're no good together. Did I screw up my only chance? Should I have just let her keep me safe? And..." Bolin glanced at Iroh. "I don't know if you know, but they were really close before."

"Korra and Asami?" Iroh nodded. "I am aware they were briefly together.

"So, ever since you told me they had gone off together, I couldn't help but think what if-?" Bolin cut himself off.

"They're screwing right now?" Iroh's words made his blood ran cold. "I wouldn't be surprised knowing Asami actually." Iroh's smile vanished as he stared at Bolin. He put his glass down quickly and leant forward as Bolin shivered. "I'm joking. I'm just joking. Oh, Bolin, I'm sorry. Please don't take that seriously."


"Finally!" Korra said as the stumbled into the wide clearing. The sky was visible through the gap in the foliage above the waterfall. A deep pool of water fed a narrow stream that soon vanished into the trees around. Birds called to one another in the trees and the splash of the falling water was oddly relaxing.

"Looks like we can set up camp here," Asami said dropping her own bag and stretching. She sat beside the pool and undid her boots, tucking her socks into them. Asami rolled up her pant legs and dipped her feet in the water. Korra sat cross-legged beside her at the edge of the pool as Asami scooped up water with her hands and rubbed at the mud encrusting everything. Korra set to work on her own belongings. Not perfect, but a lot better than it had been. "The water feels lovely. Reckon it's okay to swim in?" Asami asked once everything was clean.

"Should be," Korra said eyeing up the water. It was slightly murky, but that was entirely from their cleaning efforts. The particles of mud were already flowing out of the pool and into the stream. Asami carried her bags a short distance from the pool. "But I don't think I brought swim-"

"Neither did I," Asami replied. She was smiling. "I'm still going to wash though. Care to join me?" Asami asked as she pulled her pants and underwear off. She dropped them on her bags and glanced over her shoulder as she undid her bra.

"I, er, yeah..." Korra murmured as Asami walked past her and stepped into the pool. Looking away seemed impossible as Asami waded around the edge of the pool to the waterfall. She glanced back and Korra glanced away, focusing very hard on her laces. They were doing a sterling job of knotting further as she tugged at them. Her clothing seemed determined to rebel too as all her buttons seemed somehow too big to undo. Korra glanced up, her heart lurching and her mouth going dry. Asami was standing under the falling torrent of water, her eyes closed as she ran her over her hair, her arms, her chest, stomach, legs.

Korra gulped, her cheeks heating up and her stomach oddly weightless. She struggled with her clothes again, the knots in her boots finally slipping apart and buttons forced through holes. At last. She threw her clothes into a messy pile and as she turned back she found herself staring right at Asami as she waded back towards her. Why was it so hard hard to breath all of a sudden? She needed a distraction - and fast. The pool; it seemed deep? How deep? She could find out. Korra plunged deep into the water; it was neither hot, nor old, but just warm.

The pool was actually surprisingly deep and she kicked her legs and swam as far down as she could. The waterfall thundered somewhere above her, the pressure building on her ears. A few struggling plants down here. No fish. Korra glanced up and spluttered; Asami was swimming right over head on the surface. Korra really needed to stop staring at her friend like this. First step was to not be under the water when she was like this. She took a deep breath as she broke the surface and panted for a moment as she paddled to the shallows. Focus on the waterfall. Or the jungle. And not Asami as she swam towards her. Not that she could see anything- "Korra?"

"Hmmm?" Korra replied. "Sorry. What is it Asami?"

"While it might seem odd... I'm kind of glad we crashed." Asami giggled. "What a weird thing to say."

Korra shook her head. "I... I kind of agree. So not weird."

"I'm glad. If nothing else, it's so nice to be able to talk to you again. I mean, properly. Just the two of us like this. It's been so long since we've been on our own," Asami said.

"I missed it too," Korra admitted. "We used to do everything together." Would it be possible to go back to how they had been before? Back when Asami helped run Future Industries and all Korra had to worry about was probending. And they would go and just have fun nearly everyday? Somehow it seemed unlikely. Not that they could not do those things, but it would not be the same anymore. They both had new responsibilities. Well. Korra always had her role as the Avatar, even as she had been trying to avoid it dominating her life. But now Asami had so much more.

"I never thought we'd have a moment like this again. Ember Island..." She trailed off. "I... I don't think I told anyone else. But I thought that was my ending. There was just this one moment when I thought destiny was going to leave me there, and all I would be doing was helping the retirees and fixing Satomobiles." She glanced at Korra. "And I would have loved doing that. It was nice there - we should go sometime if we can. But-"

"But?" Korra asked.

"As nice as it was, as much as I liked it, I didn't want to give up. Everything that happened after, that was all terrifying - I wouldn't want to do that ever again. But in the end, I think it was worth it. But not because I got the company back, and not because I got off so lightly. It was because of you and the others; Iroh, Bolin - even Mako. I met you all because of what happened and I could never want to change that." She sighed and shot Korra a smile. "I know, I know, I'm being sentimental."

"It's fine," Korra smiled back. "I have to admit I was worried about the same kind of thing; that you might have been better off without me."

Asami flinched. "Never," she said.

"I don't think that anymore! But maybe, maybe we were really destined to be together." Asami smiled. "I've learned that I'm nothing without my friends. And how unlikely was it we ever ran into each other again?"

"Nearly impossible," Asami answered softly.

"But so much happened because I did and I made other friends. But - Asami? You have the honor of being my very first friend in the whole world. Thank you."


Korra and Asami put the tent up as night began to fall. The air was warm enough for clothing to seem unimportant and neither bothered to unpack anything, though they both felt it necessary to drape a towel around her shoulders. Asami lit the travel lamp and started combing her hair. Her movements soon dislodged her towel and it soon bunched around her waist as she sat cross-legged in the tent. The loss of cover did not seem to faze her in the slightest. But despite her best efforts, Korra kept finding excuses to look at or towards Asami who did not seem to have noticed.

Korra nearly jumped out of her skin when Asami spoke a few moments later. "I still don't mind you looking," she said grinning. "So you don't have to shy away." She put down her brush and met Korra's gaze. "If you like, I don't mind sleeping without a top." Her grin widened. "Or anything at all." She cocked her head to one side. "Any objections?"

Korra gulped hurriedly. "But you might get cold," she said awkwardly, her heading spinning.

"Well," Asami said as she pulled the towel from around her waist. So beautiful. "I was thinking that you might feel like keeping me warm. Maybe." She crawled towards her, Korra unsure where to look. So much skin; so much of Asami's skin right in front of her. Heat seemed to be radiating off her as she drew closer, her skin near glowing in the lamp light. Korra's heart was about ready to explode. "If we sleep together," she breathed as she kissed Korra's lips. "Then we can stay warm." Another slightly longer kiss. She drew back a frustrating moment later and gazed into Korra's eyes.

Korra darted forward, seeking Asami's lips, missing a little but soon correcting. Too good and she must be doing terribly at this. Korra pulled back after a moment and leant her forehead against Asami's as she closed her eyes. "Sorry. Been a long time..." She could not even look at her right now.

"Korra?" A soft hand on her cheek. Korra opened her eyes; Asami was smiling at her. "I missed this." She leant forward, their lips meeting and Korra slowly laid back, Asami moving with her. Their lips stayed together tongues catching each other as they kissed. Asami was warm above her, against her, blazing hot where their bodies met. Korra gasped as Asami's leg slid between her own. She was so warm and smooth beneath Korra's hand. She dragged it long the ridge of Asami's spine inducing a gentle moan.

"Oh that's good," Asami murmured and kissed her lips again. Then her cheek, her jawline and then her neck. Korra squirmed, wanting, no, needing to be closer to the other girl. She slipped her hand from Asami's back to trace gently and warily across her chest. Soft and flushed like her face. Asami trembled at her touch and inquisitive movements; Korra mimicking her own touch on her companion. She took a deep breath and lifted her head to stare into Korra's eyes. "Korra... If... If we keep going..." she let the question hang unspoken in the air as she panted.

Just like that night with Mako. Her only chance to be with him like that; an opportunity now gone forver. Would she ever have another chance to experience this with Asami. "I want to," Korra breathed, her words sending a delightful thrill into her belly and lower. "I'm ready. I want to make love."

Asami held her gaze for a second longer before she smiled. Korra gasped; Asami's smile was almost beyond beautiful and then she was kissing her more passionately than ever. In so many ways, Asami was Korra's first for so many things. Wonderful, intimate firsts. Special firsts. Her first human friend in the world. Her first glimpse of the world beyond the Red Lotus. First trip shopping. First concert, meal out. Her first kiss, first girlfriend. First sexual experience. Korra murmured wordless noises as Asami kissed down her neck and lingered on her chest. At her first gasping groan, Asami met her curious gaze with a smile and repeated the motion and Korra moaned in earnest.

Teasing. That was what she was doing - and it was obvious Asami knew exactly what she was doing. Longer kisses and brushes of hands. Always just missing the critical place she wanted her to touch. "Please," she murmured frantically as Asami's lips traced along her thigh. "Please," she begged as Asami's breathe ghosted across her stomach. Asami shifted and Korra shouted at the sensation. "Oh, yes!" How could she have ever doubted Asami? She knew precisely what she was doing, every touch and movement sparking pleasure. This was heaven she thought as everything went white. Asami looked somehow smug as she kissed right back up Korra's body, breathing still seeming difficult as the waves of pleasure were only just fading. She kissed Asami between desperate panting and squirmed on top of her. "My turn?"

"If you want..." Asami looked excited, and pleased at the question. Korra would mimic her actions; she could remember precisely what Asami had done. Not so easy it turned out. Before long her jaw was aching, Asami's hand stroking through her hair. Korra massaged her jaw and apologized; Asami just smiled and showed her how she could please her in other ways. Asami was still panting hard minutes later as Korra squirmed closer, her arm under her companion's head as she caught her breath, their legs tangled together. "That was..." she murmured and Korra kissed her lips, along her jawline to her neck. "Oh, Korra, that was..."

"Sorry I couldn't-"

Asami shook her head lazily. "No. No no no no." She smiled. "That was amazing."

"Mmmm," Korra replied. "For me too." She reddened slightly recalling both her shouts and moans in addition to her companion's. They lay together, their breathing slowly easing. Korra could not be certain she had ever felt so content before. Almost completely - there was something she still needed to know. "Asami? I need to ask something." Were they a couple now? Did they belong to each other? Should they live together and spend more time together? How would it be to be the Avatar and be with Asami? "Asami?"

"Mmm?" Asami said lazily and blinked her eyes open. "Sorry."

Korra kissed her forehead. "Sleepy?"

"A bit. But we can talk if you want," Asami said rolling over to face her her eye lids drooping. "Still listening."

"I- I'd like to." Korra paused. "You probably guessed this was my first time doing anything like that." Asami smiled softly. "And I'm so glad we did that, and no one has ever made me feel like that. So, if we could, you know, maybe..." Were there rules to these situations? Was this like the last time they needed to talk?

"Ah." Asami opened her eyes. "I know what you mean." She smiled. "I would be more than happy to try all that again, if you want to of course. You just need to ask..."

"I would feel a little awkward just blurting that out," Korra replied smiling.

"We can have a code word if it helps," she said lazily. "We can try all kinds of things if you want." She winked at Korra and closed her eyes as she rolled onto her back. "Or you can try with someone else too."

"Someone?" Korra echoed blinking.

"Being intimate like this but with whoever you want."

"You wouldn't mind that?" Korra asked puzzled.

"Of course not." She opened her eyes. "It's not like I own you. And if you don't want to sleep with me any more, I also won't mind."

Korra bit her lip. "This was..." She puffed her cheeks out. "I'm not sure how to describe it, but it was great. And..." Embarrassed now? After all that? "I do want to do this again." Asami grinned. "But... The same is true for you." Asami frowned. "If you want to try with other people..."

Asami smirked and started laughing. "Try? Oh, Korra, I'm not sure how much I have left to try by this point."

Korra flushed. "I mean; I know you've done this before. A lot. And... I'm glad and you really, really seem to know what you're doing." Her voice quivered with recent memory. "And you helped me so much when it was your turn... But I mean. I don't mind if you also want other people. And I'll be okay if you don't want to sleep with me either."

Asami studied her for a second. "As long as you're comfortable I don't want to stop too soon. This, that, all good. Maybe at some point as things change, but..." She rolled over, pressing herself against Korra again. "This was really good. I want to be with you like this again."

"I'd like that too," Korra murmured.

Asami was silent for a moment. "Can I ask you something?"

"Anything."

"Do you love me?" Asami asked. She shuffled back a little to stare into Korra's eyes.

"O-of course I do," Korra said quickly.

"I'm not testing you. This is a genuine question." Asami chuckled. "I mean; are you in love with me?"

Harder. Not an easy question. What was it like being in love? So many stories, radio plays, novels filled with people in love, fighting against all odds for love. Usually the moment of revelation came with swelling music and a certainty beyond question from the couple. Two people wanting to be together forever. And after that a wedding and happily ever after mostly. Asami's novels seemed to fill the interim with a very large amount of sex - often before any kind of wedding, and some even dispensed with that aspect. But, it did not have to end up like that.

The people in the stories seemed to lose all their old friends when love came into the picture. No time for the others, only their partner seemed to matter. But to do so with Asami; to never see Bolin, Opal, Iroh, Tenzin, Wing, Wei, Su, Lin, Jinora, Ikki, Pema, Meelo, Rohan. No she could not do that. It would have been nice to see Mako grow old too - and it was not as if she had been in love with him. But; if she was lying in Mako's arms she would feel much the same way. Or Opal. Even Bolin-

What if Bolin was laying beside her right now? What if she had hiked all this way with him, embraced him, touched him and lain in this tent with him? Somehow it would be different from Asami. Something would be different if she was with Bolin. Asami was still watching her. "Sorry," she said. "Unfair question. Shouldn't have asked."

"It's okay," Korra replied quickly. "I-"

Asami shook her head. "Not a serious question. Don't worry too much."

"I really do love you though. As my friend," Korra said, her pulse racing, fearing that might be the wrong answer.

"Same," Asami said after a pause. "We can just stay the way we are - if you like this arrangement? No strings, no restrictions, just us spending time together."

"I like that idea," Korra said, smiling as she kissed Asami.

Asami pulled back a little to gasp and let out a quiet moan. "Whoever taught you to kiss like that?"

"You did," Korra replied. "And a number of other things besides. I'm not sure if I got them right before so I could use some pointers? If you're amenable to that." Asami grinned. "Should I... demonstrate?"

"Oh, yes please."


"So; any advice?" Bolin asked. "I just don't know which of us was in the wrong." He sighed. "Or even if I'm still the same Bolin I was before..."

Iroh fidgeted. "I'm not exactly an advice giving kind of person but..." Iroh stared up at the ceiling. "Do you remember Asami's birthday?"

"You gave her a rose," Bolin said.

"I did. Well, before that, just after I first met you and her, I read a report that said Asami Sato, rich heiress rammed the leader of the Red Lotus with a Satobike. Just... reading that blew me away. And when I finally met her I found she was determined to reach her dreams; smart, ambitious, confident and passionate." He sighed. "But that Asami no longer exists in this world. It's very sad, but she's gone. If you had seen her when I found her in the Fire Nation..." He shook his head. "You reminded me a lot of her when you got back here. Both of you had been through more than you ever should have; so many people would just break down after all that. But neither of you came away from those experiences unchanged. The Asami that exists now is rebuilding her life and trying to move on. Only time will tell if she is more defined by who she was before those tragedies, or those tragedies now define her, or she is someone else again. No matter; I am determined to be there for her. And the same goes for you."

But everything seemed fine with Asami now. Ever since she got out of jail they had all celebrated together. She looked so determined during the press conference afterward. "I... I didn't realize. I just thought she was the same as she always was." Was Asami somehow hiding something?

"Well," Iroh said. "She may seem the same friend both you and Korra knew before, but please - just for a moment - imagine what it's like to be in her shoes. After finally mustering the courage to return here, she finds the people she trusted for nearly her whole life were ready and willing to toss her aside. All for nothing more than greed and political ambitions. You saw the trial; her own employees turned against her. Things are very different; she knows she has enemies now." He shook his head. "That changed her. Just like Tsubiku Bay," he murmured.

The thought had never occurred to him. All he had seen was a struggle for freedom. "I never thought... I'll still be her friend regardless."

"I know. She needs people like you, people like Korra. Someone who sees her as their friend Asami - not the CEO of Future Industries." Iroh gazed at him for a moment. "It's similar to your situation; finding something to go back to. Asami fought her battles and went back to her company; back to the life she enjoyed so much."

"So... I have to rebuild my life? Go back to who I am?" Bolin asked.

"Perhaps. Time, age, every experience changes us in every moment. But there does seem to be something inside that defines who we are. Something we can hold onto no matter what. You have to ask yourself; who are you Bolin?"

"I used to think I was just Mako's younger brother," Bolin replied. "He was everything to me. I wanted to be a hero - and people say I am one. But even with that I feel lost. It wasn't heroism; I only did what I needed to - what they needed me to. I'm not better or different to all the others who protected their loved ones. People saved my life and I don't even know their names. I just... want to belong somewhere. In a family with a home."

Iroh smiled softly. "You'll find your way Bolin."

"And... I want to be someone special to Korra. More special than just being her friend. But if she doesn't feel the same way; I... I need to accept that don't I? It's not like I can just force my dream on her," Bolin said, his head feeling light.

"You just need to tell her how you feel," Iroh said at a distance.

"But it's so hard! I'm more afraid to tell her what I feel than I was to face Kuvira again. And it was so easy before! The first time I met her I told her I thought she was gorgeous, strong, awesome and everything! I just... Can't imagine doing that again. And she couldn't possible blush and say yes when I ask her to go to dinner with me. I have this chance to say it now. But I'm scared. Why am I scared?"

"Because what she means to you has changed. The more you treasure an object, a feeling, a person, the more you worry about the potential loss. But not saying or doing anything means you will not fulfill your dream," Iroh said.

Bolin was quiet for a moment. "Did you ever worry about being rejected?" he asked. "Do you remember what it's like in the moment before you tell a girl you like her - and despite everything you've ever done together, there's this chance she'll say no?"

"I do," Iroh said fidgeting. Bolin frowned.

"You never had that did you?" he asked.

"Please, my ego is not huge enough to never wor-"

Bolin grinned. "Seismic sense." Iroh slumped. "Guess it was a trick in court?"

"It was." Iroh returned his smile. "I need to be ready though. You caught me rather off-guard. Plus I make a point of not lying to my friends." He sipped his drink. "But you are correct; I never have been rejected. Though I rejected many boys and girls in my youth."

"Must have been a regular heartbreaker in your teens," Bolin murmured.

"As if I could say yes to them all!"

"It wouldn't end well," Bolin agreed. "Mako lost two girls because he couldn't say no to either." He shivered and sighed. "But I am worried Korra and Asami will get back together. Especially now when I passed up the chance to say anything. They always wanted each other," Bolin muttered darkly.

"Did Korra tell you that?"

Bolin sighed. "No, but have you seen them together?."

"You can't just give up though. Talk to her," Iroh said.

"Can I ask you something? Something serious?" Bolin asked after a pause.

"By all means."

"Do you feel anything for Asami?" His eyes widened and he winced. "Sorry, that was rude. I meant; I know you and Asami are not a couple. But do you like her?"

Iroh was silent for a long moment. "I do like her. But, I don't think the situation is as simple as me liking Asami changing anything. I am aware she likes me too, but..." He stared at Bolin. "If I could spend the rest of my life with someone, I would be forever grateful if that person was Asami. But that would depend entirely on what she wanted - a very big if. She has dreams and ambitions far beyond any of mine and I doubt she would be comfortable marrying into my family and all that would then be expected of her. And I have no desire to pressure her into something like that. I'm not about to chase love; I've tried that in the past and I made mistakes. I won't be sad if I don't wind up with anyone."

"And if she was with Korra?" Bolin asked.

"I'd be happy for them - as long as they made each other happy naturally."

"You wouldn't feel sad for yourself?" Bolin stared at his glass. "What if Asami was your destiny?" Iroh blinked and frowned. "She got a dragon from the fortuneteller we met."

"And I was a turtleduck. Remember?" His gaze drifted and he murmured something that sounded like: "No wonder Auntie likes me." Iroh cleared his throat. "I feel it is worth noting I've been betrothed since birth-"

"You are? You never said-"

"Just a metaphor," Iroh said quickly. "My destiny is inextricably linked to the Fire Nation. Eventually I need to go back, and for want of a better word, marry her." Bolin tried not to snigger at the idea of Iroh in a wedding robe and dancing with the Fire Nation flag. "I might not get love in the end, but I won't stand in the way of anyone else. Especially someone like Asami. If Korra makes her happy then all the best to them. But I think your certainty is too hasty."

"But ever since you were born..."

"Don't feel sorry. Being the prince ensured I gained enormous privileges. You and Mako were far stronger." He lapsed into silence. "That fortuneteller. She said you had no destiny, correct?" Bolin nodded. "I would concur with the notion that you will create your own as you move through life. But you still need to talk about what you feel to Korra. Not just about romance; if you don't want Korra to shield you, she needs to know."

"Not sure how to bring it up-"

"What if the fortuneteller was wrong?" Iroh said suddenly. "What if your destiny was with Korra, but it never happened because you never said anything?" Bolin took a large sip of his drink. "Tell her before it gets too late and the problem becomes too big. And-" Iroh sighed. "Don't take that too seriously. If this was really your first fight then it'll likely be milder than-" He cut himself off. "What I mean is, if you can handle an argument now, you will be better prepared for the future. You'll do fine."

"I-I just need to think of something." Mako would know- He froze; still turning to his brother for support and comfort - even after he had said goodbye. What good was he to Korra? "But I'm pathetic. And... You know I'm just using you right? An older firebender. Could I be more obvious?" Bolin sniffed, tears beginning to flood his eyes.

"It's okay," Iroh said coming closer. "We're friends, and I am here for you-"

"Sorry for getting so emotional..."

"Part of being human," Iroh replied. "Nothing to be ashamed of."

"Are you sure? Your face is always blank in public," Bolin said.

"I might avoid showing emotion I admit..."

"You must be so annoyed..."

"No," Iroh said as he sat beside him. "It's more I really don't know what advice to give. Here." He slid Bolin's shirt up his back and started massaged his skin. "This is a specialty trick of my family. Relaxes people in minutes. How does that feel?"

"Mmm," Bolin said, his head spinning.

"And... if you want you can come with me to the Fire Nation with me. I'm supposed to be meeting Asami when she gets there. Maybe you can talk to Korra then?" Iroh said.


Asami blinked awake. Tent. Forest visible just outside. Something very warm and very soft nestled against her back. Not a dream. She glanced over her shoulder; a naked Korra curled against her. Asami smiled, closed her eyes and dozed for a bit longer, just enjoying the feel of Korra's skin as she breathed. Despite the circumstances, despite crashing her brand new invention, despite being stuck on this island with no real way off of it, and despite losing who knew how many hours to sex last night, Asami felt energized and ready to get moving. But what was the rush? Korra stirred and lifted her head some minutes later. "What time is it?" she asked.

"Looks close to ten," Asami said wriggling back against Korra.

"Guess we should break camp soon," Korra said wriggling back and planting a kiss on Asami's shoulder.

"Probably. But I'm going to remember this as a possible holiday spot in future. This was a great place to spend the night," Asami said as she reluctantly sat up.

"Let me know if you do," Korra said running her fingers down Asami's back. "I'd like to come back too." She rested her chin on Asami's shoulder.

Asami grinned and cupped Korra's cheek. "You'll be the first to know," she said kissing her quickly.

Getting dressed and breaking camp seemed like an awful chore; so much easier to let another day pass as they lazed around- No. They were here for Korra. That could wait; afterall who knew what tonight might bring? Hours of trekking through the jungle later and they finally caught sight of a ruined city "Sorry it took so long," Asami said, double-checking the map. "Behold! The Sun Warrior ruins."

"Hope there's something there that can help me," Korra said as they plunged back into the jungle and worked their way forwards. A set of stone steps lead them up onto one a walkway. Asami stared around the remains of the settlement as they followed the only path. "According to a lot of stories, this place is booby-trapped-" She broke off as a tile sank under her foot. "Uh-oh."

Korra was beside her in a moment and knocked away a torrent of yellow liquid spewing from a concealed opening. It smelled surprisingly sweet. "Is this some kind of acid?" Korra clicked her tongue. "This place is dangerous."

"That looked - and smelled - more like honey," Asami said staring at the pool distractedly.

"Stay close to me!" Korra said, not seeming to hear her. "I've had training to overcome obstacles like this-" A tile clicked under her foot and with a rumble the tiled floor below them began to drop away. "Come on!" Korra shouted and ran for a nearby opening pulling a soon out of breath Asami behind her. "Okay, hopefully-" Asami missed the rest as she ran right into something sticky spanning the width of the corridor, Korra spluttered a moment later as she hit the same obstruction.

"I can't move," Asami said after another struggle.

"Me either," Korra admitted after some rustling.

"Help!" Asami called.

"I don't think there's anyone to help," Korra said. "The people who set the traps probably don't like strangers."

"The traps might just be old? I think Zuko said something about the Sun Warriors now being a recognised ethnic group with a representative in parliament," Asami said looking around for anything to help them. "Um. But I think some of them do still live here."

"So they might help us out?" Korra asked.

"Maybe," Asami said. "Help!" she shouted. Nothing. No. Not quite. Something moved in the shadows and the head of a giant spider loomed out of the gloom. Asami gasped and shrieked at the top of her lungs. The head wavered for a moment and then moved in an odd, unnatural motion to reveal a girl about her age. A mask?

"Adventurers?" she asked raising an eyebrow.

"No, we're just friends- I mean," Asami stumbled to a halt.

"Ah. Both meanings then! Treasure hunting girlfriends. Very rare," the girl said shaking her head.

"We're not!" Korra protested. She struggled with the webbing. "What do you want with us?"

"To give all outsiders a message. Please tell them we do not have any gold!" the girl said as she glared at them.

"We're not here for gold," Asami said in exasperation.

"Oh, so you admit it! You're here to loot all our cultural treasures! The ones that belong in our museum, not yours!" The girl stared at Asami.

"Look. I am Avatar Korra! I'm not here for anything but to learn about dragons. Asami is my friend who came with me..." Korra said as she tried to explain the situation quickly. The girl still looked skeptical but eventually cut them down.

"Come. We go see the dragons," she said and wandered away; Asami and Korra had no choice but to follow.

"Asami?"

"Mmm?"

"Adventurers has two meanings?" Korra asked. "I thought it was just... you know, stuff like having adventures."

"Ah." Asami flushed a little. "Well, it also used to be code. For... Um. What we did last night?"

Korra flushed too. "Ah." She grinned. "Adventurers. I kind of like that..."


"So, this is the first firebender?" Korra asked as she eyed the carved stone relief at the edge of the Sun Warrior settlement.

"Yes," an older Sun Warrior replied; the girl had lost interest in them as soon as they arrived. "He learned firebending from the dragons and many copied his movements to bend fire like them. I regret to admit that his name is lost even to us. Though many do believe in addition to being the first firebender, he was also the first Avatar."

"The first... I should try and talk to him next time I'm in the spirit world." She shook herself. "Anyway. I would like to meet Ran and Shaw - like Zuko and Aang did." It had helped both Aang and Zuko in the past. Surely it could help her too.

"The pair of dragons are representative of balance, of Yin and Yang. There are many brave women and men who pass this test alone..." She glanced significantly at Asami. "But it seems to work best with a partner. The dragons too are appeased by the presence of a pair with a bond. Miss Sato? Do you wish to accompany the Avatar?"

"Me?" Asami blinked. "I'd be honored, but I'm not a firebender. Or any kind of bender."

The Sun Warrior smiled. "A concern I have heard before, but not a problem. Perhaps I should mention Ran and Shaw will burn your friend if they are not pleased."

"That's supposed to be encouragement." Asami turned to Korra. "You have to?" She nodded and Asami shivered. "And what if I don't appease them?"

"Then you will both burn." The Sun Warrior held her expression for an uncomfortable moment, cracked a smile and laughed. "I'm kidding!" Korra heaved a sigh of relief. "They haven't flamed anyone for decades. But seriously, two people are more effective than just one - they seem to like it."

"Okay..." Asami said looking wary but brightened as Korra smiled appreciatively.

"It is decided then." The leader of the Sun Warriors fumbled in a nearby alcove. "Since you cannot bend, we grant you this substitute eternal flame."

"This is a candle," Asami said bluntly.

"Yes. I know." The Sun Warrior sighed. "Look, just go with it. The tourists tend to really get into the whole ceremony. The dragons... They like tradition, they like ceremony. Even if things are not quite right."

"If it helps," Asami said holding her candle up.

"Thank you," Korra whispered.

"You know the story of this?" The Sun Warrior asked ignoring their whispers. "Mimic the motions, perform the Dragon Dance?" Korra nodded. "Okay! Go have fun!" the Sun Warrior beamed.

"Still not sure about this," Asami murmured as she walked with Korra up the steps, the Sun Warriors pounding a steady beat on multiple drums. Korra glanced at her, her back stiff and inflexible. Asami was actively trembling.

"It'll be okay," Korra replied out the corner of her mouth as they stopped on the towering platform. Somewhere behind them a horn sounded and the ground shook. For a moment silence; the drum stopped and the last echoes of the horn faded into stillness. Then another rumble and the twin dragons of Ran and Shaw burst from their respective tunnels entrance at speed, flying and curling all around the platform. Korra held her hands up and hoped Asami was mimicking the movement correctly. "Ready?"

"As much as I'll ever be," Asami said as the wind whipped and whirled around them.

"On three. One, two, three!" They ran through the Dragon Dance, one step at a time, the dragons continuing to circle under and around them. Old firebending forms; P'Li had taught her them years previously. They were almost second nature now. Asami was doing really well with them; shame she was not a bender - her form was excellent. As their fists touched with the final position the dragons settled to either side of them. "Here it comes," Korra said. "We can do this."

"Wait is this the part-" Asami started as Ran and Shaw both spat torrents of fire at them. Asami yelped in fear and Korra took an involuntary step back. The flames did not even come close to touching them and instead twisted into a multi-coloured vortex that loomed high above them. "Wow," Asami breathed.

Her friend's voice sounded distant. Korra blinked as the world lost focus and a wave of sensation flowed over her. The shifting patterns in the flame faded. Nothing. She span around. No sign of Asami, the dragons or even the stone platform. A familiar tingle in the back of her head. The spirit world. "Hi," a voice said behind her.

A man with long hair and a goatee stood watching her. "Hi," Korra replied. "Do you know who I am?"

"Of course, Avatar Korra." He bowed.

She bowed back. "And should I know who you are?"

He grinned. "I doubt that. I am known as Avatar Wan."

"Nice to meet you." When was Wan from? She had not heard his name mentioned before; though only half of the known Avatars even had their names recorded. To many historian's frustration, some scribes in the past had decided there was no need to record individual Avatar's names since they were all reincarnations of the same person. Or at least that was the conjecture based on a succession of five centuries duration for one tremendously old Avatar. They knew the names after her time. Did that mean Wan was from before then?

"Did you come looking for me?" Wan asked.

"I'm not sure. I need a way to regain fire bending. I was hoping the dragons might be able to aid me. And the first firebender might be helpful. Not that I object to meeting you," she said quickly. "I always want to know more about my past selves," Korra replied.

"I believe you may have found what you seek. I am the first firebender." Wan bowed again as she stared at him. "And I share the honor of holding the title of Avatar first."

"How..." Korra tried as her words failed her. "I never managed to find anyone before Kyoshi. How are you here?"

"A specific spiritual connection without that I doubt I could communicate with you. You should thank my teachers."

"Ran and Shaw?"

"Yes," Wan said smiling. "But there are other matters we must attend to. Harmonic Convergence approaches and there is much you should know about it, your past and how the two have always been linked."


"Vaatu..." Korra said as the visions of Wan's past faded away. "So that's why... Will Vaatu return with Harmonic Convergence?"

"Yes," Wan replied, his expression becoming serious. "His prison will cease to hold him and he will wreak terrible chaos upon the world. But all is not lost. Just as I became one with Raava, with all four elements you can defeat him once more."

Korra's hand settled over her chest; the same spot Raava's symbol had appeared on Wan. "Can Vaatu merge with a host? Like Raava has?"

"Even I know so little about the spirits. But as you have seen we merged; I see no reason why Vaatu might not be able to do similar."

"You've given me much to consider. Thank you," she said bowing. "I got more than I wanted this time. But I promise you and every other Avatar; I won't let Vaatu win this time either."

Wan bowed back and faded away. Leaving Korra still in the spirit world. The truth of Harmonic Convergence; the phenomenon Zaheer wanted to subvert to control the world. Had he known just what was at stake? Hard to imagine when no one else had the slightest idea. Korra sighed. One final step - if the pattern held - to regaining her firebending. Her original teacher. P'Li appeared beside her; they were sitting beside the fire in the Red Lotus hideout later at night.

"P'Li?" Korra asked. "What is my fire?"

She smiled. "Fire is different to the other elements. Of all of the types of bending, we are the ones who can truly create." The usual lectures on combat. But the important information was still there. The philosophy, the nature. That distinction between the types of bending. Fire was a creative act; the other three elements used what was around her. "We create the fire within ourselves, but we cannot do it for it's own sake; we create our fire for a purpose."

So whom does P'lis fire burn? Korra knew the answer; what had lead the woman to strike at her in Republic City. "There is more to fire than power and destruction. It is your spirit, Korra. It can take many forms; anger, pain, happiness, hope and-" She caught Korra's gaze in her own "-love." P'li loved Zaheer more than anything else in the world; prepared to kill and die for him. Prepared to even end Korra's life at his word. Her words echoed in Korra's mind. "You will come to need something else as you grow older." Fire was the element of power. It was passion and life. Often used for damage and destruction. But someone else saw it differently; they wanted to use it to protect and fight to the end.

"You're... you're a good firebender, okay?" A familiar voice; Mako. "Thank you for taking care of Bolin. And rescuing me." Korra turned back to face him, to see him just like the way he looked on the rooftop of their apartment. The first time Mako was ever friendly to her.

"Thank you for helping me when we met. I'm... I'm glad I met you both. If it weren't for you..." A first meeting that had allowed for everything that followed.

Mako held out his hand. Korra looked at it and smiled. Her first handshake, the repeat should be as warm as that time. Korra reached out to touch him. "Goodbye Korra, Asami, until next time." Mako said.

"Goodbye, Mako." Flames burst into life all around her and her eyes blinked open, tears spilling down her cheeks. The swirling vortex of flame around her dissipated. She was lying on her back, her head on Asami's lap.

"Korra?" Asami asked stroking her hair.

"I'm okay." She grinned. "I can fire bend," Korra added as she sat up. She punched her fist forward, firing a ball of flame into the air. "Thank you, Mako," she shouted to the sky.


"You know, for a few moments there, your eyes glowed white," Asami said. "Bolin said you did that after the Red Lotus. When I was in trouble. Was that the Avatar State?"

"Guess it must have been!" Korra grinned. "It's been so long, I forgot I could even do that. I... I need to train for that too. Be able to control it." She sighed. "But now I have other things to worry about. We have until Harmonic Convergence to be ready for Kuvira."

"Why then?" Asami asked.

"Because of the spirit fused with her. Just like me," Korra said, her hand brushing her chest. "He'll be at his strongest then - and if he is what I sensed in Omashu..." She needed to prepare and talk to her previous selves.

"You learned a lot about yourself didn't you?" Asami asked.

"A surprising amount. Never thought I would meet the first like that," Korra said.

"Well, while you got a vision, I had an epiphany. This," she gestured back towards the dragon. "I think this is my destiny. Remember what you told me about the fortune teller? The dragon she saw?" Korra nodded. "After today, I'm sure she meant this; that destined to fly."

"And you should," Korra grinned.

The Sun Warriors greeted them and congratulated them. "See. All fine," the leader said. Someone cleared their throat. "Oh. Right. He came to find you two," she said waving at an old man in regal robes.

"Zuko!" Asami gasped.

"You here for us or just passing?" Korra asked.

"Here for you," he said. "There was some concern when you failed to reach the bases on time. So, I came to rescue you. And extend an invitation from the Fire Lord. My daughter requests your presence at the palace.

"Well," Korra said glancing at Asami. "How can we say no? Is Iroh going to be there too?"

"Prince Iroh should arrive shortly. The royal family takes hospitality very seriously and as befits the Avatar the intention is to welcome you formally. The entire family will be present-" He cut herself short and her eyes widened. "Ah."

"Something wrong?" Korra asked.

"Really the entire family?" Asami asked quickly and Zuko nodded.

"Is that a problem?" Korra asked.

Asami shook her head. "For most people, no. But in your case, that means she'll be there."

"She?" Korra's eyes widened. "Azula!"


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Thank you for the reviews, Tbone511, Eras, Curiousmaq, Dreadking73, Queen FF, Kradeiz, Tbone511, Wingedswordyunagi, Shadowman20 and Guest. The Trial was the most difficult chapter to write of Book 3… so far. So thanks for your reviews!

Next chapter: The Lightning Master