"Are you sure Su?"

"Yes, I'm sure. I know how to read Lin!"

"Don't get snappy with me!"

"Lin, I told you when her birthday was when I found the damn certificate. It's not my fault you can't remember."

"It's not mine either." Lin growled down the phone line.

"…Sorry. Why didn't you just read over her adoption p-"

Lin hung up the phone and groaned. Why she didn't think to look at the adoption papers, was beyond her. Lin looked at her calendar, can't believe it, six years old and we didn't do anything. Spirits, I'm the worst mother ever.

"Hey Lin, good news!" Sayo barged into the Chief's office, not bothering to knock because she knew it pissed the woman off.

"Sayo, I will not tell you again, knock."

Sayo shut the door behind her, then knocked on it. "There, happy?"

Lin rolled her eyes. "What good news? Do you finally have a boyfriend?"

"No, but I do have a hot date, which is fantastic news but not the good news I wanted to tell you. You know that shipment of drugs we were planning to intercept in a few hours?"

"What about it?"

"Well, they started to sink out in the bay. The United Forces answered their emergency call and now we've caught them red handed. We have confessions and everything. Open and shut case!"

"The manufacturer though? It's not over until we shut down the operation."

"Just take the win. Everyone else has. No more work for the rest of the day unless people need to play catch up on their paperwork. I thought you and I could go and grab lunch."

Lin looked up at the clock on the wall, it was just past twelve. "Maybe next time."

"What?! What could be better than lunch with this beautiful woman!" Sayo gestured to her body.

Lin grabbed her trench coat and pulled it on. "I have something better to do."

"That's just cold."

Lin gave a lazy wave then headed down to the garage.

Kya had a bag of seeds slung over her shoulder. Even though she knew the temperature would be dropping back home, on the outskirts of the desert, it was just another hot day. "Damnit Shaw, either get up and give me a hand, or go hungry tonight."

"Give me a second, I just want to know the results."

Kya dumped the bag and groaned when it split open from the impact, spilling its contents onto the ground. "Fuck you universe, you piece of shit."

"Ya know, cursing cosmic forces is just asking for punishment."

"I never cursed them before and I still got punished. What are you reading anyway?"

"The RC Times. They do a play by play breakdown of the pro-bending matches and I can't help myself. Triple Titans are my team!"

"Stupid name." Kya caught a glimpse of the front page, a photo of Lin was blown up so the whole page was covered. "Can I read it after you?"

"It's all yours. Count it as our own little breaks."

Kya took the paper from him and sat down to read. Mrs Beifong, a miss? The title read. Kya never realised how much she didn't miss the tabloid publication. It was all the hospital kept in the waiting rooms and it was always full of dribble.

Kya flipped to the main article, where a small picture of Lin holding their daughter outside of the school was on display for all to see. A pencilled in arrow pointed to Lin's finger.

One must wonder what is going on in our esteemed Chief's life when her wife hasn't been seen for weeks. Well today, we can finally report that it would appear our Chief has moved on. Missing is her ring which she was never seen without, along with that horrid haircut from over a month ago which had us wondering if Beifong was more father than mot- Kya tore the tabloid in half, unable to read it anymore. She was about to throw it into a bucket of manure when the date caught her eye. Spirits, I missed Kuvira's birthday. Worst mother ever.

"Hurry up Kya! I have your hoe!"

Kya looked up to Shaw who had a stupid grin on his face and a gardening hoe in his hands. Kya pulled her straw hat back onto her head. "That joke never gets old."

"You've only known me for a day, you have years of jokes to hear."

"Are you sure it's you who decides to travel alone and not the poor person stuck with you?"

"You can leave whenever you want, but you may miss out on an amazing festival in the next town over."

Kya snatched the hoe from him and started to clear the dirt to prepare it for seeds. "What are you on about?"

"Well, the villages surrounding the township gather together to share the leftovers from last season's crops before they spoil. They turn it into everything and anything, including alcohol."

Kya's head shot up at the mention of alcohol.

"And that's not everything. These guys really know how to throw a party. There's music, rides, little plays. Kids are sent home after ten and then comes out the adult content. I'm talking lillyweed!"

Kya's smile dropped. "Oh, I don't smoke lil-"

"Not even once?"

"Not even once. Doctor, remember? I had to keep a clear head, that and I had friends who were cops. They could smell it on me a mile away."

Shaw bumped her playfully with his shoulder. "Come on. You only get to live once, and while you're out here 'finding yourself' you might as well see if you're the type to enjoy this pastime so many others partake in."

"Shaw, you're an idiot."

"Is that a yes?"

Kya sighed. "It's a yes."

"Mako, 'm 'ungry."

"Be quiet Bolin. Remember what happened last time we were in here?"

A little boy, not older than four clutched at his tummy, gone was the baby fat that was stereotypical of a child his age, all that was left was skin and bones. He was missing socks and shoes, they were either stolen by other kids or they fell off when trying to run from adults. His hair was dishevelled, and he had scratches all over his bare arms, legs and face.

"But Mako."

"I know, I know. I'll have to try and find us some more food tomorrow, for now, here." Mako handed over a tin of baked beans that he managed to heat up until the lid popped off. The act of firebending, even though it had a small result, took a toll on his seven year-old body. He was a wiry resemblance of his past self. He didn't look much different from his little brother, save for the fact that he managed to keep his socks and shoes on where they belonged.

Bolin ate half the tin then offered it to Mako.

Mako was about to take the food when he heard his baby brother's tummy rumble. "Nah, you finish it. You're a growing boy."

Bolin continued to eat, leaving Mako to contemplate their current situation. Their parents had died three months ago, all that was left in the burnt-out apartment they currently hid in was anything made of steel. Mako buried his face into the scarf and wrapped it tightly around his neck, inhaling the scent of his father. The memories of that night flashed in his mind.

He needed to go to the bathroom. He had cracked open the door when he heard a hushed voice. He couldn't make out what was being said, just that damn smirk on the firebender's lips. His mother's body was slumped in a chair, a burn was prominent in the middle of her chest. He looked to his father who was crying, begging to be let go when the fireben- Mako shook the memory from his mind. Not wanting to relive it again.

"Mako, 'm still 'ungry." Bolin mumbled out, his voice hardly above a whisper.

"I know. Maybe we can go to the probending arena. Other kids say people drop food all the time there."

"'Kay."

"Hey Bo."

The little boy looked up at his big brother, his face full of sorrow.

"We're gonna be champs one day. Just like they wanted us to be. You and me, we'll be the best."

A smile finally graced his lips. "Yeah!"

"Shh."

"Autumntime huh?" Mister Kenai asked in a hushed tone next to Kuvira's desk

"Yeah, mum said she's going to ask my aunt Su exactly when it is."

"Well, that's good to hear. I'm sure everyone in the class would love to sing you happy birthday when the time comes."

A knock on the classroom door made everyone lift their heads from their books, as an imposing figure dressed from head to toe in black steel, with a scowl that made the rowdiest of children suddenly settle down, walked in.

Mister Kenai stood up and walked over to her. "Mrs Beifong, I presume?"

"Chief, Beifong." She held out her hand for him to shake.

He gave her an apologetic smile. "Sorry, I've never been good at first meetings." He turned to the children. "Class, this is Chief Beifong. What do we say when we have visitors?"

All the children stood next to their desks, bowed deeply, and said in unison, "Good afternoon Chief Beifong."

Lin found it a little bit unnerving but bowed back. "Good afternoon class." She turned her attention back to mister Kenai and handed him a slip of paper. "I came to pick up Kuvira."

Kuvira's face dropped, thoughts ran through her head about why she was being picked up early. Was she in trouble? Was someone hurt? Did she have an appointment? That was the only reason why parents picked up their kids early. It was never a good reason.

"Kuvira, you can pack your bag." While the young girl packed, and everyone went back to their class work, mister Kenai thought this would be the perfect time to talk to the officer. "Congratulations on being reinstated."

"Thank you, sorry I didn't catch your name."

"Kenai."

"Thank you, Mister Kenai."

"I'm not sure if you're aware or not, but we're getting together parents to discuss the school's Founder's Day celebration. It's at the end of the school week at four if you're interested."

Lin cocked an eyebrow.

Kenai took it as a cue to continue. "Generally, we have a day where parents make meals from one of the four nations and the kids get to learn about the other cultures. Personally, I just see it as an excuse for a party in class, but it also serves for parents to get to know each other so they can organise play dates and things."

Kuvira came to stand in front of Lin and smiled when strong hands were placed on her shoulders to give them a reassuring squeeze. "I guess I could. I can't make any promises though."

"I understand, but we do hope you can make it. Have a good day Kuvira."

"Thanks mister K." Once outside of the classroom, Kuvira held her mother's hand. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong, I thought you may want to get ice cream."

Kuvira nearly tripped over herself from shock. "Ice cream?"

"Yes. You see Kuvira, I'm feeling a tad guilty. I forgot your birthday, it was last week."

"It was?"

"I hope you can forgive me."

"Can I get two scoops of ice cream?"

"I'll take that as a yes."

The music was loud, ear drum popping, loud. There was a large fire in the middle of the town and people were dancing as drums were pounded. She was pulled from her spot on a large cushion by a tall man. "I don't kn-"

"Don't think about it!" He yelled over the music. "Just dance, let your body move to the beat, no one will judge!"

Kya looked around, there were half dressed people, sweating profusely and she realised what her problem was, she wasn't drunk enough. She found Shaw talking to a few people, a cup of something in his hand. She ran over to him, snatched the drink and let it run down her throat. The after taste left her throat burning. "Poison!"

"No shit. You do realise you just smacked back, like, five drinks in one shot?"

"Thanks, I needed that." Kya, finally buzzed, stumbled back to the man who initially invited her to dance. He was tall, had porcelain skin, green eyes, thick black hair that tapered towards the back of his head and a strong jaw line with high cheek bones. Anyone else would call him handsome. Their bodies moved in sync with the music, and they drew closer. The alcohol was having quick effect on her and she found her hands on his muscled hips. She wasn't sure if it was the alcohol, or the universe playing tricks on her but he was starting to look like a male version of Lin. She looked up to see that his expression had softened and he was staring into her eyes.

Slightly raising herself on her toes, she closed the gap and kissed him. She would be lying to herself if she blamed all her inhibitions on the alcohol, when it was her missing the warmth of another human, regardless of their gender.

Firm hands were on her lower back in seconds, pulling her close to his body. She pulled back slowly when she felt something prodding her thigh. She looked up into confused eyes. "Thanks, I needed that."

"Uh, no problem. Find me later if you change your mind."

Kya gave him a peck on the cheek. "You're a handsome man, I'm sure you'll find a woman who's worthy." Kya stumbled back to Shaw and sat on his lap.

"He seems nice."

"He is. Where is this lillyweed? I need something to relax me."

"Now that's what I'm talking about." Shaw patted her on the thigh, signalling that he needed her to stand up. "This town is really cool. They each take it in turns growing the stuff every year, it's so they can share in the risk. They don't sell it though, they just use it during festivals." Shaw lead them over to an old woman sitting on the opposite side of the fire. Anyone who saw her would think she was just an old codger when in reality, she was the dispensary.

They were both given a joint each. "It's tradition to light it on the fire." The old woman gestured to the flames building in the middle of the grounds. "That fire is made from the failed crops and the items people deem to be bad luck. We view it as bringing good luck when you inhale its smoke."

To Kya, it made no sense, but who was she to judge, she had the worst luck of anyone right now. Following Shaw's lead, she lit the offending piece of greenery and inhaled deeply.

"Just keep an eye out Bolin, we need to be quick." Mako's eyes darted the from one side of the concreted grounds, to the other, waiting for some unlucky viewer to drop their food, but everyone had managed to keep a firm grasp on their treats as they headed into the probending building.

"Mako, police."

Mako looked to where his little brother was pointing. An officer with a little girl on her shoulders was walking in their general direction. Grabbing his brother by the scruff of his shirt, Mako pushed him to run towards an alleyway. The act was a tiring one and they were panting heavily from the brief bout of exercise. "I don't think, she followed, us." Mako huffed.

Light from a cracked open steel door, leading into the arena, caught Mako's eye. "Bolin, in here."

The brothers scanned the opening to make sure no one could see them and snuck inside.

"Mako, look!" Bolin had run to the top of the steps that overlooked the arena, fans were cheering at the pre-game entertainment, a band played on stage and it was getting everyone in the mood.

"Wow!"

Lin smiled down at Kuvira who was standing on her seat to get a better view of the musicians on stage. Lin had to admit, the act was a pretty good one and she allowed one of her feet to tap to the beat.

"I never thought you would be into pro-bending."

Lin gave Yasuko a shrug. "My mother was a huge fan. We could never go because Toph could never see them on the platform, but one-time Su, Kya and I managed to score tickets when we were kids. We've been hooked ever since."

Lin looked over to Asami who was pouting in her chair.

"What's wrong Asami?" Her mother asked, running a gentle hand through the young girl's hair.

The young girl gestured to the tall man standing in front of her. "I can't see."

Lin grabbed Asami and placed her on the ground next to her, with a stomp of her foot, the flooring raised and now she was the same height as Lin, just in time to see the final song and a pyrotechnics display.

"Thanks Lin." Yasuko gave her a small hug.

"It's nothing."

"Thank you! We've been Rat Bird! Our record is available in the foyer!"

"Bolin, over here!" Mako found a small entry point behind the steel bleachers of the second level. People had placed their food down on the seats next to them and Mako couldn't help himself, a few fire flakes here, a little bit of jerky there. His eyes became as wide as saucers when he saw an egg custard tart. He reached for it, only to have his wrist held in a tight grip. He was suddenly off his feet and coming face to face with a less than pleased man.

"You tryna steal from me?!"

"Aww, let the kid go Zolt."

"My mother made me that tart!"

Mako was pulling at his wrist, trying to free himself. "Let me go!"

"Mako!"

Zolt looked down through the bleachers to see another little boy. He quickly snatched him by his shirt when he tried to turn and run and pulled him through. "Now what are two little boys like you doin'?"

"We're 'ungry."

"Bo, be quiet."

"Now now, I don't wanna see a couple kids go hungry. How about we strike up a deal? I'll give you my egg custard tart, and you do something for me."

Lin flinched when the two little girls squealed in delight as a lone man managed to knock two benders off the back of the ring for a knockout. "Spirits, I'm going to go deaf."

"How many fights are left Lin?"

"One more, there is a small intermission though for everyone to get merchandise so they can start tidying up."

"Mum, could I buy a shirt?" Asami looked at her mother, a sweet, yet misleading, smile in place.

"I suppose that should be fine."

"Can I also get a shirt?" Kuvira asked Lin.

Lin opened one of the pouches on her belt and pulled out a few Yuans. "Get me that record too."

"We're not going to go with them?" Yasuko asked incredulously.

"What for? I trust Kuvira."

"I suppose you're right."

"And Asami has been taking combat lessons anyway. If someone does try to hurt them, they are in for a rude awakening." Lin gave Asami a wink and a small smile. When they turned to leave, Lin pointed down to her bare feet. "Please, Chief's kid and the Sato heiress? I know better than not to keep an eye out."

Asami gave her mother a small wave before walking off with Kuvira. "I want an Eel Hounds shirt!

"Me too! Tanto is so handsome!"

The small girls gushed over the poster of the man, who was no more than sixteen, that hung up outside their gate. Kuvira looked over to the music stand where a long line had formed, then to the merchandise stand who had a similar line. "I'll get the record and you get the shirts?"

Asami gave her a nod. "Deal!"

--

Mako looked to the little girl that was nearly at the front of the line at the merch store. He paced back and forth, psyching himself up. "Pick pocket. Come on Mako, it's easy. Other kids do it. You can too." With resolve in place, Mako knocked into her, mumbled a sorry and continued on his way.

"Next." Asami grinned, she was the last in line and she finally had a chance to buy a shirt. Reaching into her pocket, she bought Kuvira's shirt first, then reached into her other pocket for her own money. "Oh no."

"Hey Asami, did you get my shirt?"

When her friend turned, tears were in her eyes. "Your money it-"

A flash of black steel sprinted past them. They watched as the Chief of police was closing in on a young boy who had only just realised, he was in trouble. Mako quickly got his butt into gear and began booking it towards the probending arena exit, knowing he could get back in from his secret entry point. He turned a sharp corner, barely missing a steel cable attempting to wrap him up. A door was in front and he prayed to whatever spirit was listening that it was unlocked.

He burst through the door and was greeted to a bustling kitchen that belonged to vendors. They were cleaning up for the night and Mako praised whoever was looking out for him that he had an exit. He jumped and flung himself into the garbage chute, narrowly missing a hand that was clawing for his shirt.

Lin punched a wall, leaving an indent of her knuckles. She stomped back to the merchandise stall where the girls were waiting. She slammed money down on the counter. "Asami, what shirt did you want."

"Umm, Eel Hounds, please."

The vendor handed over the shirt and Lin gave it to Asami. "Thank you."

"Don't mention it kid."

"Hey Mum?"

Lin placed her keys on the counter and grabbed a couple of mugs from the cupboards. "Mm?"

"Why did you chase that boy?"

"He did something naughty."

"What?"

Lin wasn't about to tell her daughter that she secretly uses her seismic senses to watch her, so she mumbled something about law and placed the kettle on the stove. "Why don't you put on your shirt, I'd love to see what it looks like."

Kuvira grabbed her new short sleeved shirt and put it on.

Lin's crappy mood was gone when she saw Kuvira in a shirt that looked like it was for a grown man. The short sleeves went past her fingertips and the hem dragged along the floor, nearly tripping her.

"I'll grow into it!"

"I bet you will. I hope you had fun kiddo and I'm sorry again for forgetting your birthday."

"It's okay. You hit your head a lot!"

Lin let out a small sound resembling a laugh. "That I do."

Kya woke up with a grin on her face, though it soon disappeared when she realised what she was using for a pillow. "Shaw!"

Shaw's eyes snapped open, took in her shocked appearance, then shut them again. "Keep your pants on. Nothing happened."

Kya looked down to see that yes, she did still had clothes on, along with everyone else who had passed out next to the fire. She used his chest and pushed herself into a seated position, earning a groan from him in the process.

"It's too early for this shit."

Kya looked up to the sun. "It's at least noon."

"Then leave me alone until it's six." Shaw rolled over onto his bare stomach and promptly went back to sleep.

Kya stood up and dusted herself off. The town was only now getting back to functioning, and everyone appeared to be enjoying the late start.

"Hey, it's you."

Kya looked over to where the voice came from. The man she danced with last night was sitting on the edge of a kart, surrounded by mail bags. "It's you?"

"Sorry, names Li Qiang."

"Kya."

"Well Kya, how was your night?"

"It was really good. Sorry ab-"

Li Qiang waved her off. "Don't worry about it. it's pretty obvious you're fresh out of a relationship."

"How di-"

"You have a tan line where your betrothal necklace and wedding ring use to be."

"Good eye."

"Thanks."

"So, you work for the postal service?"

"That I do. I go to all the small villages in the state of Yai then to Republic City."

"Republic City?"

"Yep. It's a pretty shit city if you ask me."

"Can you do me a favour?"

Mako found his brother standing with Zolt. "Look at that boys! The kid managed to outrun the Big Bad Beifong. And got some cash for his trouble."

Mako held out the thirty yuans for Zolt. "Thanks kid. I've got something else for you to do. I think you would make a great runner for us."

"What's a runner?" Mako queried, accepting the egg custard tart, unsure if he liked where this was going.

"Well, we give you a small bag containing some of ma's herbs and you deliver it to her customers, take the money and bring it back. You'll be given food and other… incentives if you do a good job."

Mako looked at his brother, then back to Zolt. "Okay."