Chapter 44: The Waterbending Teacher


The harbor of Yue City was lively during wartime, with merchants and Wolf Tail raiders shuffling their submarines and ships around the port facilities, selling freshly captured fish or Tiger seals or dividing up their shares from a successful Fire Nation raid. Where the North Pole had once maintained a fleet of sail ships, there now sat rows upon rows of steel submarines, serving as a grim reminder to the Fire Nation that while they may control most of the world, the Water Tribes still had influence beneath the waves.

To Korra though, the sight was amazing. There was just so much going on at once, and she found herself stuck on deck once the submarine surfaced, taking with wide-eyed excitement.

"A lot to take in isn't it?" Sokka said with a grin, quite pleased at the reaction Yue City had. He felt a quiet pride flow through him as his squadron of submarines guided themselves towards the port. The city, the fleet, everything within eyesight represented the work of the past twenty years for him, and probably his life's work. It was proof that despite the setbacks they had suffered against the Fire Nation, the Water Tribes still had the strength to rebuild and live on.

"There it is Korra." Sokka pointed at the entrance of the harbor. "Your past life."

Korra turned, her mind temporarily distracted by the cable cars that ran up and down the interior of the glacier. Then she saw it.

"Wow."

It was indeed impressive. Next to the watch towers and gates that protected the harbor, was a massive statue of an Airbender, carved from solid ice. He looked almost regal, with the flowing cape and battle staff in an aggressive stance. It struck Korra as odd that the Water Tribe would dedicate so much to honor an airbender, but Avatar Aang must have meant something special to the Water Tribes if they decided to construct a statue for him.

"My people wouldn't have survived this long without Aang"" Sokka said to Korra, almost sensing the unasked question. "When Admiral Zhao and the Fire Navy Fleet came to destroy the Northern Water Tribes, he was the one who defended us. He bought us the time we needed to escape to this place."

"It's amazing that he was able to do all that..." Korra observed. "He looks so young."

"He was." Sokka replied softly. "And for his sacrifice, the tribes honor him as one of our own."

Sensing that she was bringing back a few uncomfortable memories for Sokka, she decided that it was probably best to change the subject.

"So...what can you tell me about my uncle?" She asked. It was an odd feeling to discover that she had family outside the prison, and she was genuinely curious.

"Your uncle is a powerful man Korra." Sokka replied, "Not just because he is chief, they say he was the strongest waterbender in the tribe, and the last student of the late Master Pakku. He was from a minor branch of Chief Arnook's family, but he was elected chief by the council after we established Yue City, and has been our leader ever since."

The names were meaningless to Korra, all were men from another era, but she presumed that they must have been big to be mentioned with such respect and reverence from Sokka.

"So...does that mean I'm royalty?" Korra asked with a somewhat mischievous undertone.

Sokka grinned. "Guess you can say that. Who knows? Maybe in time, if Chief Unalaq decides to make you his heir, Noatak and Tarrlok may end up bowing to you."

Korra couldn't help but snicker at that imagery that Sokka had painted so vividly in her head. She wouldn't mind that one bit.

"But why?" Korra wondered, "Doesn't he have any family of his own?"

"No" Sokka shook his head sadly. "Years ago, when the Fire Nation attacked our old Capital a second time, Unalaq lost his wife and children during the siege."

"That's terrible..." Korra said uselessly, quietly kicking herself for asking such a question.

"It was a tough time for us all, and we've lost many good people along the way." Sokka said.

She sensed that maybe, there was something more to the story than Sokka was willing to divulge at the moment, but she let that slide. She had bigger issues to think about.

"We'll be landing soon, so I suggest you head below decks and get a fresh change of clothes." Sokka reminded her, "I have a feeling your uncle won't be as welcoming with those Fire Nation clothes of yours."

Korra blinked at the realization as she remembered her Fire Nation fatigues and armor; having forgotten that she had not even changed since leaving the Earth Kingdom. It didn't sit well with her, she was rather fond of the red uniform that she had earned as part of the Southern Raiders, but she wouldn't argue against his logic. She nodded and started to head below deck, not saying another word as the submarines made their way deeper into the city port.


Noatak and Tarrlok shuffled uncomfortably as they stood ramrod straight behind their father. Even amongst the most experienced Wolf Tails, Yakone always had a terrifying and authoritative presence to him, and that held true especially for his sons. The air below deck seemed thick and oppressive even more so with him there.

"You've disappointed me, boys." He said with a scowl as he heard Noatak finish his story. "To have my own two sons captured by the Fire Nation like that. Not to mention being bested by a woman? Disgraceful."

"It wasn't like that." Noatak began to explain. "Besides, we escaped-"

"So you have." Yakone interrupted coldly, almost with disinterest, which caused Noatak to grip his fist tightly. That didn't escape Tarrlok's notice, and he wondered whether or not he needed to hold his brother back, for Yakone wouldn't hesitate to bloodbend his own son right then and there. That was the power he held over them, the ability to bloodbend them at any time during night or day, while he and Noatak could only do it during a full moon. It was the one greatest disappointment he had in his sons, to not have mastered that ability, along with what seemed like a mountain of other things.

Yakone however, seemed to pay no attention to Noatak's hostility or to Tarrlok's concern.

"We'll discuss your failures later, along with the appropriate punishments." Yakone said sternly, turning around to eye both his sons. "I have obviously been too soft in your training, and too naive when I volunteered you out both for field duty. So until you prove to me that you have what it takes, you will not set foot outside this city. Is that understood?"

"Yes father." Tarrlok said softly, while Noatak simply nodded.

Pleased with the response, Yakone casually unsheathed a hunting knife from his belt and began running his finger through the blade.

"Still...despite your fumblings, you've managed to bring a great gift to us." He said, "Who would have thought the Avatar was still alive after all these years...and now, reborn as a Water Tribe girl?" He smiled coldly. "That will make things quite convenient for us down the road."

Noatak furrowed his brow at that. "What do you mean by that?"

"Nothing that concerns you boy." Yakone brushed aside Noatak's query coldly. "For now, meditate on your failures, we'll talk more in the morning."


Taking Sokka's advice, she had changed out of her old Fire Nation gear into something more suitable for the Water Tribes; a dark blue parka, as well as a fur tunic and boots. She remembered similar clothes from her parents in her youth, but it had been a while since she worn anything like this, not since she had been recruited by the warden.

It didn't take long before they had reached the dock, and although Korra was anxious to go out and explore the city, she eventually realized that it wasn't going to be as easy as that. Platoons of spear-wielding guards greeted them at the docks, standing at attention. They gave off the impression that this was anything but a casual visit where she could just waltz away and explore.

Yet, as she walked down the gangplank, Korra couldn't help but gaze at the surrounding buildings and walls of ice, richly decorated in tribal carvings and ornaments. The docks were bustling as well, with people running in all directions carrying food, weapons, or even simple garments that were no doubt for their families. She had seen markets before, such as Gaoling, but the sheer scale of this beautiful city of ice still took her breath away.

"You've done a great service to the Water Tribes Councilman Sokka."

A thin man dressed in the formal robes of a Water Tribe chief walked up to greet them at the docks, flanked by his own procession of guards. Although physically he wasn't imposing, Korra guessed he must have commanded a lot of respect and reverence, considering the guards were all bowing to him.

Sokka nodded, bowing formally. "You honor me, Chief Unalaq."

Korra wondered what she was supposed to do next, but a quick jab from Sokka into her side was all the hint she needed to mimic Sokka, bowing to the Chief of the Water Tribes.

Unalaq turned to Korra, as if acknowledging her presence just now. "And you must be the new Avatar, it is an honor to finally meet you."

"It's mine as well." Korra rubbed the back of her neck nervously. "My name is Korra."

"I know." Unalaq nodded in acknowledgment, gesturing towards Sokka. "Councilman Sokka has told me all about you from his correspondence with the White Lotus. My name is Chief Unalaq, and I'm relieved to see that you have made it here safely."

So it was true then? Her uncle was the chief of the Water Tribes? As amazing as it was to find out that she had family outside the prison, royal family at that, some part of her Korra still found it difficult to believe that this thin and frail man was the brother to her strong and bulky father.

Chief Unalaq too, seemed to be studying Korra just as intently, giving her a discerning look.

"You have your mother's eyes," He noted, then smiled. "And if the reports from my Wolf Tail Raiders are accurate, your father's temperment as well."

Korra found herself flushing slightly at the mention of that. She had hoped to hide the fact that she fought directly against her own people for a while, but she guessed that you weren't Chief of all the Water Tribes without knowing a little of what went on around the world.

"So my father was from here?" Korra asked, eager to change the subject. She never remembered her father telling her any stories of Water Tribe cities hidden under the ice.

Unalaq however, shook his head.

"Your father and I grew up with your mother Senna back when we lived in the old Capital, but sadly, I've lost touch with my brother for years, not since he took one of our fleets south to protect your mother's village. I feared the worst for both of them, but to see you here, I'm relieved to see that they survived the last attack on the South." He said, placing his hands on Korra's shoulders. "There's nothing more important than family, especially during these times."

The mention of her father and mother was all Korra needed to bring up what she had held back for so long.

"I have a favor to ask then." She began. "They're both still trapped in the South, in the prison. It won't be long before the Fire Nation finds out I'm gone. We have to get them out of there!"

The mere thought of what the Warden would do to her mother and father was enough to make Korra visibly cringe.

"I promise you," Unalaq said seriously, "I'll do everything in my power to help. But for now, you've had a long and exhausting journey. We'll get you set up in your quarters, then we'll have a talk."

"But-" Korra protested, but Unalaq gently waved her aside.

"We've prepare a feast and celebration in your honor. The people are eager to celebrate the return of their Avatar. Rest up, and get your strength back. We'll talk later this evening."

Sokka nodded. "We'll meet up later tonight. I think it's time we get you settled in first. After all, we'll need to get you up to speed on Water bending."

"You go on ahead Korra." Unalaq said seriously, "There's still some business for Councilman Sokka and I to attend to."

At that, the Chief and Sokka walked past Korra towards the ship, just as two Wolf Tails emerged on deck. Korra saw that it was Noatak and Tarrlok.

"Can you boys watch over Korra for now?" Sokka said cordially, giving the order like he was asking for favor from an old friend.

"Of course." The boys saluted, and Sokka nodded gratefully in thanks before proceeding below decks with Unalaq, while the two brothers made their way towards Korra.

"Well? What do you think?" Korra exclaimed proudly, showing off her new Water Tribe gear. It didn't give her the same edge as the Fire Nation armor she was used to, but a part of her felt like she had known it all her life, and it just felt right. "Cool huh?"

"Wow Korra!" Tarrlok blinked in surprise, struggling to find the right words. "You look...you look-"

"-like a real Water Tribe girl." Noatak finished off his brother's sentence. He intended it to be a compliment, but the clumsy delivery made it a bit awkward. He wasn't so used to seeing the former Southern Raider dressed as one of the people in their tribes. He had to admit, he preferred her this way as opposed to being in that crimson armor.

Korra blinked, not quite sure what to make of that statement, but at last, she replied.

"Brilliant powers of observation there bud."

"Don't blame Noatak." Tarrlok gave a playful sneer at his brother's expense. "He takes after our dad in not giving out compliments easily. You look fine. I'm sure you'll fit right in."

Pleased with that remark, she smirked. "Sounds good, now, whose up for some grub! I think I threw it all up on that submarine ride here."

"Well, I know a pla-" Tarrlok offered, but before he could even finish his sentence, he suddenly found a strong hand gripping his forearm, dragging him forward. It was Korra's first time in a place like this, and she couldn't hold the excitement back. Decisive as always, she led the charge, leading the brothers by the arms towards the vast city.


The atmosphere however, was more tense below decks as Chief Unalaq and Sokka made their way to one of the holding cells on Commander Hahn's submarine. Hahn gave Sokka a formal salute, but it was a cold formality. Old feuds died hard, it seemed.

But the real center of attention wasn't Hahn, rather, it was his guest. A scarred and well built Fire Nation warrior sitting in the holding cell.

"Prince Zuko of the Fire Nation," Unalaq began sternly. "I don't know why you've decided to make your way north here. Your crimes against the Water Tribe have been too numerous to count. Were it not for the fact that your uncle is a well known and respected member of the White Lotus, I would have you executed right here and now."

Zuko didn't say anything in response. He had grown weary of defending himself a long time ago. The important thing, in his mind, was that he was at least here, where he could keep a watchful eye on the Avatar.

"I realize that it is hard to overlook my nephew's past transgression, and he genuinely regrets them." Iroh said calmly, knowing that he was walking a delicate tightrope here. "But you will find that he is a changed man. I know he won't disappoint you."

"A Fire Nation Prince, fighting for the Water Tribes?" Hahn scoffed at that ludicrous thought.

"Yes." Iroh replied seriously. "When the time comes to face Azula, you will need all the help you can get. Do not underestimate what my nephew can bring to the table."

"A knife to the back is what he'll bring." Hahn turned to Iroh with hostility. "Do you seriously take us for fools old man?"

"Enough." Unalaq said, hushing the room with authority. Then he turned to Zuko.

"As much as I respect your uncle," He said calmly, "I can't trust you just yet. That will be up to the council to decide. For now, you'll be imprisoned until I say so otherwise."

"That's fine." Zuko said at last. "I'm willing to do whatever it takes to prove to you that I mean to help."

"We'll see." Unalaq said flatly, then turned to leave with his guards.

"We'll talk later." Sokka said seriously to Iroh, who nodded gratefully to him. He had done all he could for his nephew, but it was obvious that being affiliated with the White Lotus was not enough. Hopefully, somewhere down the line, he would get his chance to prove himself.

And with the way the war was going in the Earth Kingdom, Iroh thought sadly, he may get his chance sooner rather than later.


"Remember, think of the water as an extension of your body. Move with it, not against it."

Katara said patiently as she went through the motions again, manipulating an orb of water gently in front of her and guiding in front of her in a semi-circle. It was a form that she had done thousands and thousands of time over, and by now was second nature to her, but she never grew tired of it. Moments like these, going over the basic forms of waterbending with her students were moments of rare bliss that she treasured, and momentarily helped her forget about the world outside, along with the burdens and obligations that came with it.

"It's too hard Master Katara." One of her students, a little girl of eight sniffed and rubbed her eyes, obviously frustrated that the orb of water wasn't flowing the way she wanted to. "I'll never get it at this rate."

"Now now..." Katara smiled, kneeling down to wipe the tears from the little girl's face. "Don't be too hard on yourself. Why, when I was your age, I could barely even make a splash with my water bending, let alone lift water up."

"Really?" The little girl asked in disbelief, "But you're a great master!"

"We all have to start somewhere." She smiled, recalling the happier days when she first discovered she was a water bender, and the countless orbs of water she splashed over her head as she struggled to control her own gift.

Traditionally, women were forbidden from learning the arts of Waterbending outside of healing, but with the necessity of the times, when one lived in constant fear of a Fire Navy fleet appearing on the horizon, they had to have everyone ready for the worst. Even the Old Master Pakku eventually saw the need for change, giving Katara his blessing when he passed on years before. And now, with her brother assuming his seat on the council, she found herself as the successor to Pakku, in charge of preserving and passing on the Water Tribe traditions and techniques onto the next generation. It was a trust that she took seriously, and she hoped that somewhere, the old man would be proud of what she was doing.

"Just promise me you'll keep on trying okay?" Katara continued, "Who knows? Maybe one day, you'll be an even greater water bender than me. And I'll be looking to you for protection."

"You really think so?" The girl's eyes beamed.

"I know so." Katara nodded, standing up once more with the orb of water levitating above her hand. "Now, ready to try again?"

Before the little girl could continue though, Katara spotted a man walking down the training grounds. A Wolf Tail Raider, and one that was in a rush at that.

"My apologies." The warrior bowed respectfully. "But Councilman Sokka wishes your presence at the council immediately."

"What's going on?" Katara wondered, it was rare that her brother had called her to meet with the council. She had spent most of her efforts in training the youth of the tribe, preferring that to work in the field.

"A momentous occasion Master Katara." The man exclaimed excitedly, and at that instant, Katara felt her gut clench with both excitement and fear, and the next words of the warrior seemed to confirm it all the same.

"The Avatar has returned."


The place was called Narook's Seaweed Noodlery, or at least that was what Tarrlok had said. Korra was too busy tending to the rumbling of her aching stomach to pay much attention. All she knew was that she pointed at the biggest item on the menu, waiting eagerly for the plate to be placed in front of her.

She eats more than a Polar Bear Dog... Noatak thought sheepishly as he watched Korra down another bowl of noodles like nothing. Tarrlok watched his brother's discomfort with amusement, while their pet Wolf, Kodiak, simply yawned and took its place on the floor next to the table.

"Thought you'd like this place." Tarrlok said with a hint of pride. "Narook's is famous for their Water Tribe food. They even have a few cooks from the South who can make the dishes you're used to."

"That is, if you leave room for them." Noatak said tersely.

The taste struck a chord within Korra, igniting a distant memory of what home was like when she was younger. During the days when the Warden allowed the families a rare break from working in the construction sites and mines, Senna would usually find a way to scrounge up some ingredients with a few of the families which shared their quarters. She remembered the aroma, and how it wafted through the entire cell block. It was delicious, even reminding her of Hope's Earth Kingdom cooking-

A cold chill ran down her spine as she recalled that meal, inside the very house that had crushed her friend, burning flames all around. It seemed so long ago, but suddenly, the memories came flashing back like a heat of the restaurant seemed to intensify, bursting into flames around her. Noatak and Tarrlok vanished, and Korra could only see the reflection of her friend's face in front of her. Smiling. Eyes fading. Accepting.

She gulped down silently, staring blankly at the bowl. How could she even think of eating at a time like this? Why did she deserve to be here? To be treated this well, to have warm food and comforts while her parents were wasting away in a jail cell? While her friend lay buried somewhere in the ruins of an Earth Kingdom village? Why did she get a chance at all this when people like Hope didn't?

"Are you okay?" Tarrlok asked, snapping Korra out of her daydream.

"Something on your mind?" Noatak added, noting Korra's quick change in demeanor as well. Her shoulders seemed to sag, as if under a tremendous weight.

"No...I'm fine, I'm just not hungry right now." She said softly, pushing the bowl away, even as she felt a small pang of guilt twisting in her stomach like a tight knot. Just recalling the moment threatened to bring back the sting of tears welling behind her eyes.

Even Noatak's usual stern expression softened a bit as he saw Korra struggling to regain her self control. She obviously had a lot going through her mind at this moment, and although he wasn't there to see Iroh bring her back from Yu Dao, he could only imagine the hardships she must have gone through to switch sides so abruptly.

"That's alright." He said gently. "I think we've had enough to eat anyway. Come on, let's take you to the palace. I'm sure council is going to meet up soon, and they'll want to see you."

"Ya." Korra stared blankly at the unfinished bowl in front of her. "I think that's for the best."


In light of Korra's arrival, Chief Unalaq had called for a feast and celebration across the Water Tribes to honor the Avatar's return. Before they knew it, the trio found themselves confronted by a sea of humanity, excited members of the Water Tribe eager to get a glimpse of their new Avatar.

Tarrlok and Noatak tried their best to keep them at bay and watch out for her, with some help from a growling Kodiak, but they were relieved when Unalaq's palace guards eventually cleared the crowd to allow Korra access to the Palace gates.

Korra was not used to this level of affection, it was certainly a different reception she was used to back in the South Pole, where the every prisoner distrusted each other, and the guards treated her only with contempt. Here, it seemed the families and citizens got along well with each other, and they were cheering and clapping for her every step of the way. It felt nice, but it felt kind of uncomfortable at the same time.

However, her gaze focused away from the crowd onto Chief Unalaq, who was standing just inside the gate to greet them.

"I hope the hospitality of the Water Tribes was to your liking." He smiled, gesturing for the trio to enter the Palace.

"It was...nice." was all that she managed to say.

Unalaq nodded, gesturing at his guards to follow. "I'm glad you found it so. The council is set to receive you tonight, you should be out celebrating with our people."

Our people. Unalaq said it with much affection, which made Korra somewhat uneasy. She had reached her people for the first time in her life, but she felt like a total stranger arond them.

"There's just something I need to talk to you about." Korra said, pushing that disturbing thought down. "About my parents."

Unalaq's face grew grim and solemn, as if he were expecting that question to come. He nodded towards Tarrlok and Noatak.

"You boys, report to your father." He began, "You can sit in with us on the council meeting tonight. I'd like to have a talk with the Avatar as well."

The brothers bowed politely, giving Korra a concerned look until she nodded back to them.

"It's fine, there's nothing to worry about." Korra said, "I'll see you both tonight."

Tarrlok paused, knowing that something was still off with Korra, but Noatak took the hint quick enough. "Come on Tarrlok, let's go. We'll give them their space."

Relenting, the younger brother nodded, and they parted ways down the hall.

"Now," Unalaq said patiently, turning his full gaze towards his niece. "Before we get to your parents, tell me everything that's happened up to now."

Korra cringed inwardly, wondering just where she would even begin with that.. "It's a long story."

"I have time." Unalaq said seriously, sitting down on a nearby bench by the council chambers. "After all, I'd like to know what my brother, and my niece have been up to all this time."


The whole story took longer than she had anticipated, but her uncle was fervent on having her explain all the details. From her upbringing at the Prison, her recruitment into the Southern Raiders, and her recent trials in the Earth Kingdom. It was tough going through all those events again, and the pain of the old memories rippled through her voice as she continued talking.

Unalaq knew enough to not pry at some of the more difficult parts, and he nodded with understanding when Korra finally finished.

"It must be horrible, having to grow up in an environment like that." He said sympathetically.

"That is why I can't have them there any longer." Korra said in a determined voice. "They're in danger, and you have to help them."

She made it sound like an order, but it was more of a plea.

Unalaq nodded with understanding. "Believe me Korra, I would do it were it in my power."

"But...you're the Water Tribe chief!" Korra exclaimed. She didn't understand, wouldn't his word be law?

"You confer to me more influence than I actually have." Unalaq explained. "Although I am chief, the recent union of the Northern and Southern Water Tribes is still new and fragile. And I must defer to the council in this matter."

"But..." Korra began.

"I promise you, I will do everything I can." He said sternly, then turned his gaze to Korra.

"Did Sokka tell you about my family?"

"Yes." Korra replied uneasily. "I'm...sorry to hear about them."

Unalaq nodded, closing his eyes as he recalled that painful memory from so long ago.

"Don't be. We've all had to make sacrifices in our war against the Fire Nation. A chief isn't expected to do any less."

Korra cringed at that thought, as if her deepest fear would be realized. Was her family going to be sacrificed as well then? She couldn't even begin to think that.

At last, Unalaq continued. "I struggled for a long time with loss Korra, on how unfair it was. But since then, I've realized we needed to looked to the Spirits for guidence. For surely they would give us the answer to ending this war."

"The Spirits?" Korra asked.

"Yes." Unalaq said fiercely, "You may not know this, but as the Avatar, you are the bridge between the material, and spiritual world. From that connection, the world was able to find balance."

"Yeah, so that's what they say to me." Korra remarked, "And I'm supposed to bring balance by beating the Fire Nation."

Unalaq shook his head at that.

'The Fire Nation and their atrocities are nothing but a symptom of a greater spiritual sickness, one that has stretched for countless millennia. Until we address the root cause of it, the world will never know balance and peace."

"A spiritual sickness?"

"That will be for another time Korra." Unalaq finished. "First, we must get you introduced to the council, as well as find you a teacher so that you can get up to speed on your water bending. I can be your spiritual advisor, but you will need a master to train you."

Korra nodded, there was a ton on her plate already, but she was satisfied with her uncle's sincerity. Hopefully, he can rescue her parents sooner rather than later.

"I believe everything happens for a reason." Unalaq continued. "And your being here is no coincidence."

"With your help," He said fervently. "We can finally bring this chaotic age to an end, and usher in a new era of peace for the world."


She was eventually escorted further into the inner sanctum, navigating several icy blue corridors that were adorned with fine blue and velvet tapestry. Their journey ended further down the hall as they passed a gigantic set of double doors, guarded by heavily armed Wolf Tail Warriors.

As Korra passed towards the center of the room, she glanced at both Tarrlok and Noatak standing stoically by Yakone, with their Wolf Tail Gear on as they watched the proceedings.

The council chamber itself was furnished with a grand round table, where various council members were seated, all of them gazing curiously at the young Water Tribe girl that was presented to them.

"Korra, welcome to the Water Tribe Council." Sokka smiled, gesturing at the round table, where several village elders took their places. Korra felt slightly nervous, sensing their scrutinizing gazes all over her.

"Before we begin," Chief Unalaq stood up firmly, addressing the chamber with his loud voice. "There have been some false accusations flying around as to whether or not my niece is the real Avatar. I believe we can settle all these rumors right here and now."

He turned to Korra with a smile.

"Show us."

Korra obliged, opening her palms and producing a small glint of flame that danced wildly along her palm, before finally snuffing it out with a closed fist.

A hushed whisper filled the chamber, and several of the Water Tribe council members seemed dazed by this revelation. Unalaq watched, quite satisfied by the simple display and its intended effect on the audience, but eventually he gestured for everyone to quiet down, waiting for everyone to settle down before continuing.

"Now, with that settled, the order of business for today," Unalaq said. "Is the appointment of a master to teach the Avatar water bending."

Before anyone could say anything more, all eyes on the council chamber turned to the Wolf Tail's congregation as they burst into a loud uproar. Korra too, turned to see Noatak and Tarrlok step out of the way as Yakone assumed his place at the center of the council chamber. Even out of his armor, Korra noted that even the council members seemed frightened of the man, who seemed to have a terrifying and powerful aura around him.

"My Chief. Avatar." Yakone smirked confidently as he strode to the center of the chamber, giving Korra and Unalaq a respectful bow with his greeting. "It would be my honor to teach the Avatar the arts of Waterbending."

Yakone stood up confidently, as if daring a member of the council to go against his wishes. "I am the strongest waterbender in the tribes. I have no doubt the Avatar will flourish with my guidance."

A contingent of councilman and wolf tail warriors roared with approval, drowning out the meek voices of protest as well from a few horrified Southerners. It was true that out of all the fighting Water Benders of the Northern Water Tribe, Yakone was clearly the strongest, but his reputation was well known among them, and a few cringed at the thought of that man training anyone, especially if that person was the Avatar.

Korra too, noticed for the first time the hostile glances being exchanged in the chamber. On one side, she could see that Yakone clearly had his own faction of supporters, mainly Northerners, while many of the dissenting voices on the committee came from Sokka's side, which she had to guess was made of Southern Water Tribe members. It was her first meeting with the council, but even she could sense the tension and animosity that existed between them. Unalaq was right, the unity of the Water Tribes at the moment, was still fragile at best.

Korra watched uneasily as the council erupted into a storm of arguments. In the middle of it, she felt as though she were a helpless piece to be pawned between the factions in some sort of stupid power struggle.

It wasn't until Sokka stood up, that the floor quieted down once again.

"The Avatar shouldn't be taught by Yakone, he's not the right candidate." Sokka said seriously, keeping his gaze focused intently on Yakone.

Several Southern Water Tribe council members nodded in agreement. "Not Yakone the traitor."

Yakone almost snapped as he heard the name, infuriated by the resistance to his appointment that echoed through the council room. He lifted his hand towards the Southern Council member who shouted out the moniker, gently closing his fist. The man seemed to freeze on the spot, hand running uneasily over his throat.

"Another word, and it won't end well for you." Yakone said darkly, and with a flick of his wrist, he released the terrified councilman, who slumped fearfully in his seat. Yakone's bloodbending was feared throughout the tribe, and only he had the power to do it without the aid of a full moon.

"You will refrain from bloodbending in the council chambers Yakone." Unalaq reprimanded his commander sternly. "Do it again, and I won't be responsible for what comes after."

Yakone's anger melted away with that statement, knowing better than to challenge the chief, but he kept a tense look on his face as he turned to confront Sokka.

"Do you seriously believe that you? A non-bender? Have any right to decide who trains the avatar?"

But Sokka was unfazed. "I do."

Yakone turned to Unalaq in protest. "What right does he have to challenge my appointment? He's only one councilman."

"He isn't just a councilman. I've known Sokka for years. Of everyone in this room, he's the one with the most practical battlefield experience and he was a major proponent in building Yue City. You will respect him."

"It doesn't change the fact that he doesn't have the qualifications to train the Avatar."

"No, but she does." Sokka said sternly.

"Who?"

The chamber went quiet again, as Sokka turned triumphantly facing the doorway, where to the surprise of the crowd, a young Water Tribe woman stood at the entrance. Korra didn't know who she was, but the rest of the council seemed to view her with some level of reverence and respect, but Yakone thought differently.

"Master Katara." He said with a patronizing tone. "What are you doing here? The meeting is for council members only. Last I checked, you stepped down."

"I brought her in, Yakone."

Yakone twisted in surprise as he looked towards the center of the room, where Chief Unalaq stood up to bow respectfully to Katara.

"It was I who summoned her," Unalaq confirmed. "So that she could take the role as the Avatar's teacher."

"But...you yourself said I was qualified." Yakone protested.

"You are qualified." Unalaq admitted. "But the Avatar needs a teacher who is a master waterbender. Despite your war record, no one in this room can argue that Master Katara is more talented than you in the arts of bending."

"Unalaq..." Yakone said furiously, feeling quite betrayed. "Do you think I'll just accept that?"

"As Chief of the Water Tribes. Yes, I do." Unalaq said harshly.

"Master Katara." Unalaq gestured towards Korra, then turned his gaze back to her. "Are you ready to accept the role of teaching the Avatar?"

Korra's eyes beamed as she stared at Katara. She was a beautiful woman, her hair braided in the traditional way of the water tribes, and even though this was the first time she seen her, there was something about her face that seemed so hauntingly familiar. She had that look. Compassionate, kind, strong. Yet, there was the same iron in her eyes that Korra had seen time and time again, from the people she had met across the war-torn Earth Kingdom to the hardened youths of the prison.

"Katara?" Sokka chimed in, hoping that his sister would take on the mantle once again.

Katara however, could only freeze as she took her first glance at Korra, who smiled genuinely as she saw her. She had talked to herself over and over on her way to the chamber, that this was a new Avatar, one who needed her guidance if she were to save her people. This was not Aang, it wouldn't be fair.

But yet, for some reason, when she saw the smile on Korra's face, she felt unnaturally tense, a pang of sadness hitting her hard, threatening to overwhelm her. She stood there, shaking slightly, her hand covering her mouth as the memories she had fought so hard to erase sprung to the surface.

At last, Katara shook her head.

"I'm sorry..." Katara said softly. "But I can't."

Before anyone could say anything else, Katara turned around and bolted out of the room, past the surprised guards as they stepped aside to let her through.

"Katara!" Sokka shouted after her, but by then she had run away. He gritted his teeth in anger, not at Katara, but at himself for putting her on the spot like that. It had been so long since their journeys together with Aang, that it seemed like a distant blur to him, but obviously to Katara, the wounds still cut deep.

Korra too, felt a pang of guilt as she watched Katara run away. Was it...my fault?

"She's weak. Always has been." Yakone scoffed, before turning back to the council with a triumphant sneer. "We don't have time. Every day that we waste with this bickering is another day the Fire Nation comes this much closer to destroying us. I am the only one who can train the Avatar. I am the only one who can help her fulfill her destiny."

"No." Sokka said firmly. "He's not the one to teach the Avatar."

Yakone was just about to step threateningly towards Sokka, but at that point, to everyone's surprise (most of all Noatak's) Tarrlok took this time to insert himself smack dab in the middle between his father, Councilman Sokka, and Chief Unalaq.

"What are you doing boy?" Yakone scoffed, "You have no place at this meeting."

"I don't." Tarrlok admitted, "The decision may be the council's but I want to voice my opinion." He said it firmly, confidently, to the surprise of everyone around him. The shy, underachieving son of Yakone actually asserting himself in front of the council? What has gotten into this boy? But nevertheless, they let him continue.

"Look, it seems like no matter who we go with, a lot of you don't want my father training the Avatar. So we can do a compromise? How about my brother?" Tarrlok suggested.

At that point, Noatak almost jumped up like a Grasshopper-ant in surprise. That suggestion too, triggered a new round of debate around the council chamber.

"This isn't a joke boy!" Yakone scoffed at the suggestion, but Unalaq however, was intrigued.

"Go on son," Unalaq said, giving Tarrlok permission to speak.

Nodding gratefully Tarrlok continued.

"Noatak is the best active Wolf Tail raider right now, aside from our father. He's the only one in the tribes who has been trained by both Katara and Yakone, not to mention that he has also fought alongside him and Councilman Sokka on many expeditions in the past."

Warming to his subject, Tarrlok turned to his father enthusiastically. "My father can still watch over the Avatar and supervise her training with Noatak until it is time for her to resume her training with either Katara or Chief Unalaq. She's still a novice, so until the council can decide later on, there's no harm in having my brother show her the ropes. He's had experience training recruits in the past."

It was an interesting compromise, and the council seemed to dwell on the merits of the proposal. Not only was Noatak a qualified water bender, but he was also perhaps the closest thing to an impartial party between Sokka and Yakone's factions. Whether it was true or not, it would at least give the appearance that not one faction had too much control over the Avatar's training.

You really are born to be a future councilman Tarrlok. Noatak thought, grudgingly admiring how he was able to offer a suggestion that would seem to placate a lot of the council members.

Before Chief Unalaq could put his two cents in, Korra suddenly sprung her hand up at the suggestion.

"I'm with that!" Korra blurted out clumsily, causing everyone on the council to look at her in surprise.

"I mean, I agree." She corrected herself. "I wouldn't mind being taught by him."

"Unacceptable." Yakone grunted, obviously not having the slightest interest in having his own son usurp him right in front of the tribe.

"As the Avatar, don't you think I have a say in this?" Now it was Korra's turn to assert herself in the proceedings, and she stared intently at Unalaq, knowing very well that her fate was in his hands.

"You're still too young to make decisions like this-" Unalaq began.

"No, she's not" Sokka interjected. "Despite her age, I've already seen her fight through more battlefields than several of our most veteran water benders. If anyone knows how to fight and train, it is her. I say we give her the choice."

"This is unprecedented." Unalaq said sternly.

"These are unprecedented times." Sokka replied. "We must forge a path for ourselves now. I agree with the suggestion from Tarrlok. For now, we'll have our young Wolf Tails train the Avatar." He looked on Noatak with an encouraging smile.

Several council members warmed to the suggestion, and even Yakone could sense that this was probably as good a deal as he would get. It would not be a total loss, he reckoned, to have the Avatar trained by his own sons. It saved him face, and more importantly, kept the Avatar close enough to him that he could keep tabs on her.

"Very well." Yakone admitted grudgingly. "I will defer to the Avatar's will."

"Then it's agreed." Unalaq said, glad to have that issue sorted out. "We'll have Noatak train the Avatar for now, until the council decides otherwise."

At that, all eyes turned square on Noatak. "Do you accept this charge? Young Wolf Tail?"

Noatak felt the pressure of the chamber press against him as all eyes turned to him, but he knew how much was at stake here, and the pleading look from Korra's eyes told him everything. If he didn't accept, then she would most likely be trained by Yakone, and that was something he wouldn't wish on anyone.

Noatak nodded, stepping forward calmly to face the Council.

"It would be my honor to train the Avatar, Chief Unalaq."

Relief and excitement washed over Korra's face as she heard Noatak's answer. Now, at last, she can learn the element that she had been denied for so long. She would learn to water bend. At last.


A/N:

Sorry all for the long absence. Life got REALLY busy the last month and I don't anticipate it letting up anytime soon. As a result i've had to drop my writing and betaing commitments for now :( I'll try to get back to those emails as well as being consistent to one update every week or two. Thanks everyone who has ever read this and reviewed this! Believe me, there is so much I want to do with this AU universe, so i'll go through it one update at a time.

Alas, no Eska and Desna, Unalaq was planned to be included when i first started this, but the number of characters would be a bit too cluttered with the twins IMO. But don't worry! There will be more LOK characters included as we continue on.